bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on an Unpressurized Medium-Temperature-Differential Stirling Engine Integrated with a New Spiral-Patterned Flat-Flame Burner and a New Spiral-Finned Hot-End Plate
Authors: Chen Wen-Lih , Currao Gaetano M. D. , Wu Chih-Yung , Evan Bah , Mao Chieh-Yu , Tsai Shu-Wei , Yu Chih-Yuan
Published: February 2023

The present study experimentally investigates the performance of a power generator constituted by an unpressurized Stirling engine coupled with a new flat-flame burner. The operative temperature differential of the Stirling engine is within the medium range (around 400 K or less). In this work, there are two types of the engine’s hot-end-plate designs, a conventional flat plate and the new type with spiral fins developed within this framework. Consequently, the new hot-end-plate design forms spiral-patterned channels to enhance the engine’s heat input rate, thus partly compensating for the inherently low thermal efficiency of an unpressurized engine. The spiral fins are used to increase the resident time of the flue gas and increase the heat-transfer area. In addition, engine performance is measured for two types of fuels, namely, DME (renewable) and propane (fossil). Using propane, the new hot-end plate allows for a maximum electric power output of 24.6 W, which is typically superior to common unpressurized Stirling engines. Compared to the conventional hot-end plate, the new hot-end plate improved electric power output and the thermal-to-electric efficiency up to 63% and 47%, respectively. The study also proved the effectiveness of applying the integration of the new hot-end plate and the new flat-flame burner on boosting the power output of the present Stirling engine generator.
Microfacies and Reservoir Space Characteristics of Carbonate Reservoir of the Ordovician Yingshan Formation in Northern Slope of Tazhong Uplift, Tarim Basin
Authors: Ren Ping
Published: February 2023

As an important stratum of exploration in the Tarim Basin, which is the largest petroleum basin in China, Yingshan Formation has great potential. The relationship between the fine division of microfacies and reservoir space characteristics has not been systematically studied which restricts further exploration. On the basis of the analysis of core, thin section, logging data, imaging logging data (FMI), and field outcrop, the microfacies types and reservoir space characteristics of the Ordovician Yingshan Formation are systemically studied. The results show that (1) nine microfacies (Mf1-Mf9) and four microfacies associations (MA1-MA4) were identified within the Ordovician Yingshan Formation. MA1-MA2 represent a medium- to high-energy sedimentary background, and MA3-MA4 represent a medium- to low-energy sedimentary background. (2) Four reservoir space types were observed in the Yingshan Formation, which are dominated by fracture-dissolution pore type, followed by small dissolution vug type, seldom fracture type, and large-scale karst-cavity type. (3) High-energy microfacies are the material basis of favorable reservoirs. The high-energy microfacies associations are prone to small dissolution vug and fracture-dissolution pore types of reservoirs; large cave reservoirs can sometimes be developed in the high part of the sequence and form favorable reservoirs in the Yingshan Formation. The low-energy microfacies associations mostly appear as original strata or interlayer, but after the superposition of structural cracks, buried karsts, or epigenetic karsts, low-energy microfacies associations may form relatively small-scale fractured and fracture-dissolution pore types of reservoirs in this area.
A New Family of Distributions to Encounter the Extrapolating Issues
Authors: Gul Ahtasham , Mohsin Muhammad , Almaspoor Zahra
Published: February 2023

Traditionally, infinite models have been fitted on finite datasets which extrapolate the data, resulting in inadequate model fitting and predictions. To overcome this problem, we develop a new family of truncated distributions by introducing a new generator. In this article, a truncated random variable Xtr “the transformer or input” is exerted to transform another random variable T “transformed or generator,” which yields a new T − Xtr family of distributions. Several characteristics of T − Xtr family of distributions are provided which are equally useful in engineering and biological sciences. For application purposes, a type‐2 Gumbel‐truncated exponential distribution is generated by using the proposed method along with its statistical properties. The efficacy of the new model is demonstrated by applying it to echophysiology and comparing the resulting outputs with those from the baseline models. Relevance of the Work. Indeed, the probability models have infinite domains but they are applied on the finite real datasets which may lead to exaggerated inferences and predictions. This problem can be solved by developing models that have finite domains. We propose finite models to analyze the finite data proficiently, provide reliable inferences, and save time.
Cross-Section Measurements of the 11B(p,α)2α Reaction near the First Resonant Energy
Authors: Zhang Shizheng , Xu Hao , Xu Xing , Wei Wenqing , Ren Jieru , Chen Benzheng , Ma Bubo , Hu Zhongmin , Li Fangfang , Liu Lirong , Yang Mingzhe , Lai Zeyu , Yue Hongwei , Xiong Jie , Xu Zhongfeng , Chen Yanhong , Wang Zhao , Zhou Zexian , Shi Lulin , Cheng Rui , Deng Zhigang , Qi Wei , Zhou Weimin , Zhao Guanchao , Liu Bing , Luo Di , Hoffmann Dieter H. H. , Zhao Yongtao , Batani Dimitri
Published: February 2023

In preparation for an experiment with a laser-generated intense proton beam at the Laser Fusion Research Center at Mianyang to investigate the 11B(p,α)2α reaction, we performed a measurement at very low proton energy between 140 keV and 172 keV using the high-voltage platform at the Institute of Modern Physics, Lanzhou. The aim of the experiment was to test the ability to use CR-39 track detectors for cross-section measurements and to remeasure the cross-section of this reaction close to the first resonance using the thick target approach. We obtained the cross-section σ = 45.6 ± 12.5 mb near 156 keV. Our result confirms the feasibility of CR-39 type track detector for nuclear reaction measurement also in low-energy regions.
Phenotypic Variation in 46,XX Disorders of Sex Development due to the Fourth Zinc Finger Domain Variant of WT1: A Familial Case Report
Authors: Kirino Shizuka , Yogi Analia , Adachi Eriko , Nakatani Hisae , Gau Maki , Iemura Ryosei , Yamano Haruki , Kanamori Toru , Mori Takayasu , Sohara Eisei , Uchida Shinichi , Okamoto Kentaro , Udagawa Tomohiro , Takasawa Kei , Morio Tomohiro , Kashimada Kenichi
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The variants in the zinc finger (ZF) domains 1–3 in WT1 are one of the major causes of 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD). Recently, variants in the fourth ZF (ZF4 variants) were reported to cause 46,XX DSD. However, all the 9 patients reported were de novo, and no familial cases were identified. Case Presentation and Results: The proband (16-year-old social female) had a 46,XX karyotype with dysplastic testes and moderate virilization in genitalia. A ZF4 variant, p.Arg495Gln, in WT1 was identified in the proband, her brother, and mother. The mother did not show any virilization with normal fertility, and the 46,XY brother developed normal puberty. Conclusion: The phenotypic variations due to the ZF4 variant are extremely broad in 46,XX cases.
Hypothalamic Oxytocin Neuron Activation Attenuates Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Hypertension and Cardiac Dysfunction in an Animal Model of Sleep Apnea
Authors: Rodriguez Jeannette , Escobar Joan B. , Cheung Emily C. , Kowalik Grant , Russo Rebekah , Dyavanapalli Jhansi , Alber Bridget R. , Harral Grey , Gill Aman , Melkie Makeda , Jain Vivek , Schunke Kathryn J. , Mendelowitz David , Kay Matthew W.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Obstructive sleep apnea is a prevalent and poorly treated cardiovascular disease that leads to hypertension and autonomic imbalance. Recent studies that restore cardiac parasympathetic tone using selective activation of hypothalamic oxytocin neurons have shown beneficial cardiovascular outcomes in animal models of cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to determine if chemogenetic activation of hypothalamic oxytocin neurons in animals with existing obstructive sleep apnea-induced hypertension would reverse or blunt the progression of autonomic and cardiovascular dysfunction.

Methods:

Two groups of rats were exposed to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), a model of obstructive sleep apnea, for 4 weeks to induce hypertension. During an additional 4 weeks of exposure to CIH, 1 group was treated with selective activation of hypothalamic oxytocin neurons while the other group was untreated.

Results:

Hypertensive animals exposed to CIH and treated with daily hypothalamic oxytocin neuron activation had lower blood pressure, faster heart rate recovery times after exercise, and improved indices of cardiac function compared with untreated hypertensive animals. Microarray analysis suggested that, compared with treated animals, untreated animals had gene expression profiles associated with cellular stress response activation, hypoxia-inducible factor stabilization, and myocardial extracellular matrix remodeling and fibrosis.

Conclusions:

In animals already presenting with CIH-induced hypertension, chronic activation of hypothalamic oxytocin neurons blunted the progression of hypertension and conferred cardioprotection after an additional 4 weeks of CIH exposure. These results have significant clinical translation for the treatment of cardiovascular disease in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Electrical Characteristics of Atmospheric-Pressure Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition Fabricated Indium-Gallium-Zinc-Oxide Thin-Film Transistors with In-Situ Hydrogenation and Neutral Beam Oxidation
Authors: Wu Chien-Hung , Lin Shuo-Yen , Liu Po-Tsun , Chung Wen-Chun , Chang Kow-Ming , Lien Der-Hsien , Wang Yi-Jie
Published: February 2023

Low temperature poly-crystalline silicon thin-film transistors (LTPS-TFTs) and indium-gallium-zinc-oxide TFTs (IGZO-TFTs) are potential candidates for future technology of various displays. Due to its simple manufacturing process, low cost and good uniformity, IGZO-TFTs have been developed
as main stream display technology. From the viewpoint of device electrical characteristics, a-IGZO TFTs have better field-effect mobility (>10 cm2/V * s), larger Ion/Ioff ratio (>106), smaller subthreshold swing (S.S) and good
stability. In this study, atmospheric-pressure PECVD (AP-PECVD) is used to deposit a-IGZO active layer, during the deposition process In-Situ hydrogenation is applied to enhance the layer characteristics. Also, the layer is then surface oxidation treated by neutral beam system (NBS).
The optimal TFTs device characteristics is reached with In-Situ hydrogenation of H2 90 sccm, and surface oxidation of 400 W NBS treatment. The field-effect mobility is 34.05 cm2/V * s, threshold voltage is 1.74 V, subthreshold swing is 62 mV/decade, and current
ratio Ion/Ioff is 2.04×107. Compared with conventional plasma, NBS used in this study provides charge-free plasma which could enhance device electric characteristics.
Topology Optimization of Regional Power Grid Under Large-Scale Access of Distributed Photovoltaic Power Generation
Authors: Wu Honglin , Ding Dong , She Yan , Wang Liyong , Ji Bin , Chen Tao
Published: February 2023

In order to avoid the impact of large-scale access of distributed photovoltaic power generation on regional power grid and minimize power grid line loss, a regional power grid topology optimization method under large-scale access of distributed photovoltaic power generation is proposed.
Obtain the factors related to the line loss consumption of regional power grid and the access location and capacity of large-scale distributed photovoltaic power generation, as well as the power grid network structure and load. Take the minimum bus loss after large-scale access to distributed
photovoltaic power generation as the objective function, and take the continuity, network structure, line relationship, node voltage, etc. as constraints, build the topology model of low-voltage power grid, Using k-means clustering algorithm, the power supply range of regional power grid after
large-scale access of distributed photovoltaic power generation is divided into several regions. In each divided small region, KPSO algorithm is used to optimize the network topology, so as to realize the topology optimization of the whole regional power grid. The experimental results show
that when the number of clustering centers is 4, the clustering effect of this method is the best and can effectively reduce the power supply line loss.
Design of Emergency Simulation Training Scene Construction System Based on Grid Model Interactive Correlation Technology
Authors: Li Mingxia , Pei Yongji , Wang Hailong , Li Panpan , Feng Yongjun , Huang Xinlei
Published: February 2023

The construction of power grid emergency simulation training scenario can optimize the emergency treatment effect of staff on power grid equipment failure. Therefore, this paper designs an emergency simulation training scenario construction system based on the Interactive Association
Technology of power grid model. When the user sends the data access request in the interface layer and transmits it to the data and interaction layer, the power grid information physical system based on Association characteristic matrix is used to build the emergency simulation training scenario
The model method extracts the specific information of the electrical equipment structure needed for the emergency simulation training, and feedback it to the environment and simulation management layer. The three-level scene management module takes the form of data interaction in the model
library module to get the specific information of the electrical network equipment structure for emergency simulation training, and realizes the construction of the emergency simulation training scene through 3D rendering technology, and uses it in the scene management program. The emergency
simulation training scene management method based on slow elimination algorithm can deal with the problem of “sudden crossing” in the scene, so as to optimize the construction effect of emergency simulation training scene. After testing, the simulation training scene of the designed
system is more realistic, which has a positive impact on the emergency treatment effect of power grid equipment failure.
Application of Machine Learning Techniques to Improve Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) Precipitation Estimates in the Western United States
Authors: Osborne Andrew P. , Zhang Jian , Simpson Micheal J. , Howard Kenneth W. , Cocks Stephen B.
Published: February 2023

The Multi-Radar Multi-Sensor (MRMS) system produces a suite of hydrometeorological products that are widely used for applications such as flash flood warning operations, water resource management, and climatological studies. The MRMS radar-based quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) products have greater challenges in the western United States compared to the eastern two-thirds of the CONUS due to terrain-related blockages and gaps in radar coverage. Further, orographic enhancement of precipitation often occurs, which is highly variable in space and time and difficult to accurately capture with physically based approaches. A deep learning approach was applied in this study to understand the correlations between several interacting variables and to obtain a more accurate precipitation estimation in these scenarios. The model presented here is a convolutional neural network (CNN), which uses spatial information from small grids of several radar variables to predict an estimated precipitation value at the central grid point. Several case analyses are presented along with a yearlong statistical evaluation. The CNN model 24-h QPE shows higher accuracy than the MRMS radar QPE for several cool season atmospheric river events. Areas of consistent improvement from the CNN model are highlighted in the discussion along with areas where the model can be further improved. The initial findings from this work help set the foundation for further exploration of machine learning techniques and products for precipitation estimation as part of the MRMS operational system.

Significance Statement

This study explores the development and use of a deep learning model to generate precipitation fields in the complex terrain of the western United States. Generally, the model is able to improve on the statistical performance of existing radar-based precipitation estimation methods for several case studies and over a long-term period in 2021. We explore the patterns associated with certain areas of strong performance and suggest potential means of improving areas with weaker performance. These initial results indicate the potential of deep learning to supplement radar-based approaches in areas with observational limitations.
Delayed Freshwater Export from a Greenland Tidewater Glacial Fjord
Authors: Sanchez Robert , Slater Donald , Straneo Fiammetta
Published: February 2023

Freshwater from the Greenland Ice Sheet is routed to the ocean through narrow fjords along the coastline where it impacts ecosystems both within the fjord and on the continental shelf, regional circulation, and potentially the global overturning circulation. However, the timing of freshwater export is sensitive to the residence time of waters within glacial fjords. Here, we present evidence of seasonal freshwater storage in a tidewater glacial fjord using hydrographic and velocity data collected over 10 days during the summers of 2012 and 2013 in Saqqarleq (SQ), a midsize fjord in west Greenland. The data revealed a rapid freshening trend of −0.05 ± 0.01 and −0.04 ± 0.01 g kg−1 day−1 in 2012 and 2013, respectively, within the intermediate layer of the fjord (15–100 m) less than 2.5 km from the glacier terminus. The freshening trend is driven, in part, by the downward mixing of outflowing glacially modified water near the surface and increasingly stratifies the fjord from the surface downward over the summer melt season. We construct a box model that recreates the first-order dynamics of the fjord and describes freshwater storage as a balance between friction and density-driven exchange outside the fjord. The model can be used to diagnose the time scale for this balance to be reached, and for SQ we find a month lag between subglacial meltwater discharge and net freshwater export. These results indicate a fjord-induced delay in freshwater export to the ocean that should be represented in large-scale models seeking to understand the impact of Greenland freshwater on the regional climate system.
Delayed Tracheostomy After Cervical Fixation is Not Associated With Improved Outcomes: A Trauma Quality Improvement Program Analysis
Authors: Kelly Emma M. , Fleming Andrew M. , Lenart Emily K. , Howley Isaac W. , Fischer Peter E. , Kerwin Andrew J. , Filiberto Dina M. , Byerly Saskya
Published: February 2023

Background

Patients with unstable cervical spine (C-spine) fractures are at a significant risk of respiratory failure. There is no consensus on the optimal timing of tracheostomy in the setting of recent operative cervical fixation (OCF). This study evaluated the impact of tracheostomy timing on surgical site infections (SSIs) in patients undergoing OCF and tracheostomy.

Methods

Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) was used to identify patients with isolated cervical spine injuries who underwent OCF and tracheostomy between 2017 and 2019. Early tracheostomy (<7 days from OCF) was compared with delayed tracheostomy (≥7 days from OCF). Logistic regressions identified variables associated with SSI, morbidity, and mortality. Pearson correlations evaluated time to tracheostomy and length of stay (LOS).

Results

Of 1438 patients included, 20 had SSI (1.4%). There was no difference in SSI between early vs delayed tracheostomy (1.6% vs 1.2%, P = .5077). Delayed tracheostomy was associated with increased ICU LOS (23.0 vs 17.0 days, P < .0001), ventilator days (19.0 vs 15.0, P < .0001), and hospital LOS (29.0 vs 22.0 days, P < .0001). Increased ICU LOS was associated with SSI (OR 1.017; CI 0.999-1.032; P = .0273). Increased time to tracheostomy was associated with increased morbidity (OR 1.003; CI 1.002-1.004; P < .0001) on multivariable analysis. Time from OCF to tracheostomy correlated with ICU LOS (r (1354) = .35, P < .0001), ventilator days (r (1312) = .25, P < .0001), and hospital LOS (r (1355) = .25, P < .0001).

Conclusion

In this TQIP study, delayed tracheostomy after OCF was associated with longer ICU LOS and increased morbidity without increased SSI. This supports the TQIP best practice guidelines recommending that tracheostomy should not be delayed for concern of increased SSI risk.
Outcomes of Small Bowel Obstructions by Admitting Specialty and Hospital Type
Authors: Sternick Molly , Licata Andrew , Britt Rebecca
Published: February 2023

Background

Small bowel obstructions (SBOs) account for a significant burden on the health care system. Should the ongoing trend of regionalizing medicine extend to these patients? We investigated if there is a benefit to admitting SBOs to larger teaching hospitals and to surgical services.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of 505 patients admitted to a Sentara Facility between 2012 and 2019 with a diagnosis of SBO. Patients between the ages of 18 and 89 were included. Patients were excluded if they required emergent operation. Outcomes were evaluated based on patient’s admission either to a teaching or community hospital as well as the admitting service’s specialty.

Results

Of 505 patients admitted with a SBO, 351 (69.5%) were admitted to a teaching hospital. 392 (77.6%) patients were admitted to a surgical service. The average length of stay (LOS) (4 vs 7 days, P < .0001) and cost ($18,069.79 vs $26,458.20, P < .0001) were lower at teaching hospitals. The same trends in LOS (4 vs 7 days, P < .0001) and cost ($18,265.10 vs $29 944.82, P < .0001) were seen with surgical services. The 30-day readmission rate was higher in teaching hospitals (18.2% vs 11%, P = .0429), and no difference was seen in operative rate or mortality.

Discussion

These data would suggest that there is a benefit to admitting SBO patients to larger teaching hospitals and to surgical services with regard to LOS and cost, suggesting that these patients might benefit from treatment at centers with emergency general surgery (EGS) Services.
The role of spirituality and religiosity on the suicidal ideation of medical students
Authors: Vitorino Luciano Magalhães , Lucchetti Giancarlo , Saba Isabella Fidelis , Nalon Júlia Maria Maluf Caldas Anghietti , de Faria Rodolfo Souza , Trzesniak Clarissa
Published: February 2023

Background:

There is solid evidence that spirituality and religiousness may reduce the suicidal ideation of individuals. However, studies are scarce on medical students.

Aims:

To investigate the relationship between spirituality, religiousness, and suicidal ideation among Brazilian medical students.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study including Brazilian medical students. Sociodemographic and health variables, suicidal ideation (item 9 of the Beck Depression Inventory – BDI), spiritual and religious Coping (Brief SRC), religiousness (Duke Religion Index), spiritual well-being – Meaning, Peace and Faith (FACIT SP-12), and depressive (PHQ-9) and anxiety (GAD-7) symptoms were assessed.

Results:

A total of 353 medical students were included, 62.0% presented significant depressive symptoms, 44.2% presented significant anxiety symptoms, and 14.2% presented suicidal ideation. In the adjusted Logistic Regression models, meaning ( OR = 0.90, p = .035) and faith ( OR = 0.91, p = .042) were associated with lower suicidal ideation, while negative spiritual and religious coping was associated with greater suicidal ideation ( OR = 1.08; p = .006).

Conclusion:

There was a high prevalence of suicidal ideation among Brazilian medical students. Spirituality and religiousness were associated with suicidal ideation in two different directions. These findings could help educators and health professionals to understand suicidal ideation among medical students, helping in the development of preventive strategies to mitigate such problem.
Using Cross-Cultural Collaboration to Establish a Working Coalition for An Equitable COVID-19 Vaccine Program
Authors: Thompkins Floyd , Goldblum Peter , Lai Tammy , Reynolds Jahmeer , Lachter Randi , Mhatre Pooja G. , Vakharia Shirin , Thompson Sheila M. , Brown Lisa M.
Published: February 2023

Coalitions and collaborations with African Americans in the United States are often between people with equal humanity but unequal power. Endeavors between historically harmed communities and representatives of systems that continue to harm them frequently lead to intentional and unintentional miscommunication, mistrust, and distrust. The causes for health inequity are complex and should include consideration of systemic racism. In most standard public health models, departments typically take the lead and invite select members of the community to help. This article describes a collaboration that took place in Marin City, California, between African American churches, the department of public health, and community-based organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. This example focuses on the value of African American history and cosmology as a foundation for respectful cross-cultural collaboration in implementing a COVID-19 vaccination effort. A cross-cultural collaborative model was developed for use by this coalition to guide the development and implementation of community response teams. Unique and shared responsibilities provided by the coalition partners are examined. Humanistic principles, including empathy, positive regard, trust, and grace, are held as central to the model when planning, implementing, and evaluating activities undertaken by cross-cultural coalitions. Sustainability issues are considered concerning staffing, funding, and public policy.
Social networks as providers of social protection to urban migrants in Delhi
Authors: Pandey Arvind , Mishra Rakesh , Singh Rajni
Published: February 2023

Why are social networks necessary at the place of destination? What roles do they play as a form of “social capital” for newly arrived migrants in urban centers? These are some relevant questions that scholars in migration studies have explored, especially in the context of international migration, but significant gaps exist in the case of internal migration. Using the migration history of the head of 400 households living in eight slum areas of Delhi, the present study attempts to differentiate the social networks available to the head of the households at their first arrival in Delhi based on the strong and weak ties and the caste-based network. The study also disentangles the role played by these social networks in providing social protection to household heads at their first arrival. The results show that social networks, especially strong family/kinship-based and caste-based networks, play an essential role in providing social protection by assisting newly arrived migrants with housing, food and information about employment.
Big Is Bad: Stereotypes About Organizational Size, Profit-Seeking, and Corporate Ethicality
Authors: Freund Andrea , Flynn Francis , O’Connor Kieran
Published: February 2023

Individuals tend to hold a dim view of for-profit corporations, believing that profit-seeking comes at the expense of ethicality. In the present research, we show that this belief is not universal; rather, people associate ethicality with an organization’s size. Across nine experiments ( N = 4,796), people stereotyped large companies as less ethical than small companies. This size-ethicality stereotype emerged spontaneously (Study 1), implicitly (Study 2), and across industries (Study 3). Moreover, we find this stereotype can be partly explained by perceptions of profit-seeking behavior (Supplementary Studies A and B), and that people construe profit-seeking and its relationship to ethicality differently when considering large and small companies (Study 4). People attribute greater profit- maximizing motives (relative to profit- satisficing motives) to large companies, and these attributions shape their subsequent judgments of ethicality (Study 5; Supplementary Studies C and D).
Epistemologies of Struggle: Social Movement Theory and the Politics of Knowledge Production
Authors: Brissette Emily , King Mike
Published: February 2023

Within the field of US social movement studies, there is periodic concern that the work produced by scholars is not more widely read and used by activists and organizers, yet there is little attention given to how epistemological norms within the field produce and maintain the disconnect between mainstream US social movement studies and movements on the ground. In this paper we trace the major contours of the problem: the positivism that saturates the field’s tendency towards abstraction and model building; the implicit normative commitment to a liberal-pluralist social order which eclipses radical voices; and the refusal to engage seriously with the organic knowledge production that takes place within every movement. We also highlight exemplary theorizing that has emerged out of active struggles and argue that the humanistic study of social movements must begin from a place of intellectual humility, decentering academic expertise and recognizing that scholars have much to learn from organic intellectuals in movements today.
Guts, Resilience, Integrity, and Tenacity (GRIT) Among Mid Adolescent School Students in a District of South India: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Britto Dharmaraj Rock , Rizvana Abdul Malik Shagirunisha , George Neethu , Subramaniyan Dharshini , Narayanan Dhayanitha , Mani Divya Keerthana Rameshwari , Annadurai Elakiya , Prakas Enitta Josephine
Published: February 2023

Background:

Guts, Resilience, Integrity, and Tenacity (GRIT) is an optimistic character that mixes passion and dedication. It is a driver of achievement and success, independent of and beyond what intelligence and talent contribute. The study aimed to assess GRIT and factors influencing it among mid-adolescent school students (13–18 years) in the Perambalur district, Tamilnadu, India.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among mid-adolescent school students. We used a self-reported questionnaire to collect the data on sociodemographic characteristics and parents’ details and the standard eight-item GRIT questions. Analysis was done with the total and subscale scores.

Results:

Among the 1663 participants, 966 (58.1%) were males. The mean (SD) age was 15.6 (1.19) years. The mean GRIT score was 26.65 (4.12). Most students (755) showed medium (45.4%) GRIT scores. The age factor had a weak negative correlation with GRIT ( r = −0.052, p = 0.033) and females had higher scores ( t = 9.13, p = 0.002). Perseverance of effort was significantly more in those from a rural background ( t = 1.9, p = 0.012), while consistency of interest was more in those from urban background ( t = 0.63, p = 0.03).

Conclusion:

Most students had average or medium GRIT scores, with higher GRIT among females. The concept of GRIT should be properly addressed among children during their school years in order to inspire them to dream with passion and perseverance.
Efficacy of propofol-supplemented cardioplegia on biomarkers of organ injury in patients having cardiac surgery using cardiopulmonary bypass: A protocol for a randomised controlled study (ProMPT2)
Authors: Heys Rachael , Angelini Gianni D , Joyce Katherine , Smartt Helena , Culliford Lucy , Maishman Rachel , de Jesus Samantha E , Emanueli Costanza , Suleiman M-Saadeh , Punjabi Prakash , Rogers Chris A , Gibbison Ben
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and cardioplegic arrest is known to be responsible for ischaemia and reperfusion organ injury. In a previous study, ProMPT, in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass or aortic valve surgery we demonstrated improved cardiac protection when supplementing the cardioplegia solution with propofol (6 mcg/ml). The aim of the ProMPT2 study is to determine whether higher levels of propofol added to the cardioplegia could result in increased cardiac protection.

Methods and Analysis

The ProMPT2 study is a multi-centre, parallel, three-group, randomised controlled trial in adults undergoing non-emergency isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. A total of 240 patients will be randomised in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive either cardioplegia supplementation with high dose of propofol (12 mcg/ml), low dose of propofol (6 mcg/ml) or placebo (saline). The primary outcome is myocardial injury, assessed by serial measurements of myocardial troponin T up to 48 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes include biomarkers of renal function (creatinine) and metabolism (lactate).

Ethics and Dissemination

The trial received research ethics approval from South Central – Berkshire B Research Ethics Committee and Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency in September 2018. Any findings will be shared though peer-reviewed publications and presented at international and national meetings. Participants will be informed of results through patient organisations and newsletters.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN15255199. Registered in March 2019.
Psychometric properties of light touch-pressure somatosensory measures in adults with neurological disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Vora Isha , Kline Danielle K , McCauley Colleen A , Link Angela , Asiello Jessica D , Gaudino Shonali G , Reilly William J , Keilty Matthew S , Banks Russell E , Kimberley Teresa J
Published: February 2023

Objectives

To critically appraise the psychometric properties of light touch-pressure somatosensory assessments to provide guidance for tool selection for research or clinical purposes.

Data sources

MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsycInfo were searched for research indexed from January 1990-November 2022. English language and human subject filters were applied. “Somatosensation”, “psychometric property”, and “nervous system-based health condition” search terms were combined. Grey literature and manual searches were conducted to ensure thoroughness.

Review methods

The reliability, construct validity, and/or measurement error of light touch-pressure assessments was reviewed in adult populations with neurological disorders. Reviewers individually extracted and managed data including patient demographics, assessment characteristics, statistical methods, and psychometric properties. Methodological quality of results was evaluated using an adapted version of the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments checklist.

Results

Thirty-three of 1938 articles were included for review. Fifteen light touch-pressure assessments demonstrated good or excellent reliability. Further, five of those 15 assessments achieved adequate validity and one of the 15 assessments achieved adequate measurement error. Over 80% of the summarized study ratings were determined to be of low or very low quality.

Conclusion

We recommend using electrical perceptual tests, the Semmes-Weinstein Monofilaments, the Graded and Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensibility, and Prehension, and the Moving Touch Pressure Test given that they demonstrated good to excellent results in three psychometric properties. No other assessment achieved adequate ratings in more than two psychometric properties. This review highlights a fundamental need to develop sensory assessments that are reliable, valid, and sensitive to change.
Exploration of Curing Characteristics of Epoxy-Modified Asphalt
Authors: Dongre Raj , Andriescu Adrian , Elwardany Michael , Mensching David J. , Youtcheff Jack
Published: February 2023

A study was conducted on epoxy-modified asphalt (EMA) diluted with two binders of a different chemical structure, to understand the effect of curing rates and long-term postcuring characteristics. Dynamic shear rheometer test results did not show a clear trend of curing time and dosage percentage impact for the two base binders; parallel-plate geometry may not be well-suited to study EMA because of the thermosetting properties of curing. The asphalt binder test (ABT) method was used to assess the effect on rheology of short-term and long-term curing. Analysis of the ABT data to date suggests that the binder source has a notable effect on the composite properties. The impact of long-term storage was also found to be dependent on the asphalt binder used. Findings from this study were also applied to two field binders; one was modified using styrene-butadiene-styrene polymer, and the other contained epoxy. Curing times were determined using the ABT test. The Dongre Workability Test (DWT) was also conducted on open-graded friction course mixes and the mix curing times were found to be significantly higher than those determined on the binders. A method based on DWT data to determine a “workability window” was also explored. The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) sol-type binder AAG-2 was found to exhibit little to no reactivity with the epoxy modifier used in this study. The SHRP gel-type binder AAD-2, however, was found to be highly reactive. The short-term curing temperature was found to affect the rate of curing for base binder AAD-2. The curing rate was found to be highest at 165°C followed by 120°C, and the rate was at its slowest at 25°C. AAG-2 did not show any onset of curing at either temperature.
COVID-19 Booster Vaccination Bellwethers: Factors Predictive of Older Adults’ Adoption of the Second Booster COVID-19 Vaccine in Israel: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Ben-David Boaz M. , Keisari Shoshi , Regev Tali , Palgi Yuval
Published: February 2023

Israel became the first country to offer the second COVID-19 booster vaccination. The study tested for the first time, the predictive role of booster-related sense of control (SOC_B), trust and vaccination hesitancy (VH) on adoption of the second-booster among older adults, 7 months later. Four hundred Israelis (≥60 years-old), eligible for the first booster, responded online, two weeks into the first booster campaign. They completed demographics, self-reports, and first booster vaccination status (early-adopters or not). Second booster vaccination status was collected for 280 eligible responders: early- and late-adopters, vaccinated four and 75 days into the second booster campaign, respectively, versus non-adopters. Multinomial logistic regression was conducted with pseudo R2 = .385. Higher SOC_B, and first booster early-adoption were predictive of second booster early-vs.-non-adoption, 1.934 [1.148–3.257], 4.861 [1.847–12.791]; and late-vs.-non-adoption, 2.031 [1.294–3.188], 2.092 [0.979–4.472]. Higher trust was only predictive of late-vs.-non-adoption (1.981 [1.03–3.81]), whereas VH was non-predictive. We suggest that older-adult bellwethers, second booster early-adopters, could be predicted by higher SOC_B, and first booster early-adoption, 7 months earlier.
Examining individual differences in personality trait changes after negative life events
Authors: Haehner Peter , Bleidorn Wiebke , Hopwood Christopher J
Published: February 2023

Personality traits can change throughout the entire life span, but people differ in their personality trait changes. To better understand individual differences in personality changes, we examined personal (personality functioning), environmental (environmental changes), and event-related moderators (e.g., perceived event characteristics) of personality trait changes. Therefore, we used a sample of 1069 participants who experienced a negative life event in the last 5 weeks and assessed their personality traits at five measurement occasions over 6 months. Employing preregistered multilevel lasso estimation, we did not find any significant effects. While exploratory analyses generally confirmed this conclusion, they also identified some effects that might being worth to be considered in future research (e.g., perceived impact and perceived social status changes were associated with changes in agreeableness after experiencing a relationship breakup). In total, our moderators explained less than 2% of variance in personality traits. Nonetheless, our study has several important implications for future research on individual differences in personality change. For example, future research should consider personal, environmental, and event-related moderators, use different analytical methods, and rely on highly powered samples to detect very small effects.
Thermal performance assessment of the coaxial pipe evacuated tube solar air heater in Bilaspur climatic conditions
Authors: Jangde Prashant Kumar , Arjunan T V
Published: February 2023

The present era finds the implementation of small-scale solar thermal applications to overcome emissions caused by fossil fuels. In this connection, a forced convection co-axial pipe evacuated tube solar air heater is fabricated and examined under various operating parameters and in Bilaspur Chhattisgarh climatic conditions in the months from October 2021 to March 2022. The performance parameters under consideration were outlet air temperature, collector efficiency, exergy efficiency, and overall system efficiency. The experiments have been performed for different mass flow rates 9.36, 15.84, 18.36, 22.32, and 26.28 kg/h of air. The ambient air temperature varied in the range of 20.8 °C to 41.6 °C. The air temperature at the inlet of the heater varies from 28.4 °C to 66.7 °C. The maximum outlet air temperature and temperature rise recorded were 82.9 °C and 37.2 °C in the month of March and February, respectively, for the low mass flow rate of 9.36 kg/h. It was observed that the maximum collector efficiency, exergy efficiency, and overall system efficiency were achieved as 82.95%, 6.4%, and 81.92%, respectively, for a moderate mass flow rate of 15.84 kg/h. All the performance parameters seem to be strongly dependent on the solar intensity and were found to be highest when the intensity was at its peak value. It is found that the increase in mass flow rates beyond 15.84 kg/h tends to decrease the temperature rise as well as the efficiency of the solar heater. No significant temperature rise is observed for a mass flow rate beyond 26.28 kg/h. The study finds that the fabricated setup can effectively produce a low to moderate temperature range (40 °C–80 °C) and can be used for domestic as well as small-scale industrial applications.
Artificial intelligence-aided intelligent obstacle and trespasser detection based on locomotive-mounted forward-facing camera data
Authors: Qin Huixiong , Zaman Asim , Liu Xiang
Published: February 2023

Most fatalities in the railroad industry are trespasser deaths. Additional obstacles such as fallen trees, construction materials, and other debris also pose a danger to railroad operations. Understanding where, when, and how these events occur can help railroads develop trespasser mitigation strategies and improve rail safety. However, obtaining information from forward-facing footage requires immense manual effort. We developed a forward-facing trespassing and obstacle detection system that utilizes artificial intelligence to recognize and understand unsafe events and logs them for later review and analysis. The system dynamically identifies regions of interest, trespassers, and obstacles with a customized detection methodology which uses a semantic segmentation model called DeepLab and an object detection model called YOLOv5. These models were trained by a dataset containing over 10,000 images from various sources, including open-source datasets and videos provided by industry collaborators. The novelties of this research are threefold: the development of an algorithm capable of detecting the railroad’s restricted area around the track area, optimizing the trade-off between accuracy and latency to achieve real-time performance, and proposing a universal obstacle detection algorithm. The final system was able to analyze 400-pixel x 400-pixel videos at a rate of 14.5 frames per second (FPS) in an edge-computing device which identified trespassers and obstacles with more than 92% accuracy. The system can adaptively detect both obstacles and trespassers in the train’s path, as well as the railroad property area surrounding the tracks. This research offers the railroad industry tools which can provide precise trespasser and obstacle information to improve railroad safety and operations.
Adaptive backstepping control for permanent magnet linear motors against uncertainties and disturbances
Authors: Yang Qiyao , Peng Dongliang , Cai Jianping , Guo Dong , He Zhongjie
Published: February 2023

In practical operation, the system parameters of a permanent magnet linear motor are affected by unknown factors, including nonlinear friction, sudden load changes, thrust fluctuations, and so on. Therefore, a controller designed for fixed parameters often cannot produce satisfactory results. To solve this problem, a novel design method for permanent magnet linear motor systems based on backstepping is proposed in this article. The proposed control scheme does not require the values or range of changes of the system parameters in advance but constructs an update law to perform online parameter estimation. A difficulty encountered in controller design and stability analysis is the estimation of the unknown coefficient of a single-variable state, which can be considered as a virtual input. In this article, the estimated virtual control coefficient is introduced into the coordinate transformation to construct a novel coordinate transformation. However, introducing the estimated coefficient into the virtual control makes the derivative of the Lyapunov function used in the stability analysis more complex. This novel nonlinear dynamic term can be precisely cancelled by changing the update law of the coefficient. Finally, simulations are performed to assess the performance of the proposed control scheme against that of a traditional proportional–integral–derivative controller, and the simulation results show that the proposed control law can effectively improve the system performance.
Numerical analysis of size effect on the deformation behavior and damage evolution mechanism of segmental tunnel lining rings
Authors: Zhao Xiaofeng , Han Kaihang , Ju J Woody , Chen Xiangsheng , Chen Weitao , Xiong Hao
Published: February 2023

This article investigates the size effect of segmental tunnel linings on the deformation behavior and the damage evolution mechanism using the Finite Element Method (FEM). A series of models with different diameters are established under the same loading condition to control the variable. The bolts and the rebar apply the elastic-plastic model. The Concrete Damage Plasticity model has been considered for the concrete lining. The vertical convergence deformation, internal force of these models, and damage to the segment body are selected for comparison. The number and location of the yielded bolts are explored for the analysis of the overall structure stiffness and damage evolution mechanism. In terms of plastic hinge theory, an extended discussion is carried out to explain the differences in damage evolution mechanisms in different-sized linings. The results show the large-diameter lining rings have a relatively greater increasing rate of convergence deformation. Furthermore, fewer plastic hinges emerged in large-scale lining rings before the structures reached their ultimate strength. According to the experimental results, we can know that the failure of large-diameter has the characteristic of more brittle damage than that of small-diameter one and these large-size structures are prone to become unstable geometry.