bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WSe2 Monolayer: A Stable Two-Dimensional Heterostructure Material from First-Principles of Simulation Calculations
Authors: Zhang Li-Qin , Zhang Jin-Feng , Li-Ming  , Xu Shi-Tao
Published: February 2023

P-N junctions or heterostructures are commonly used in the fabrication of self-driven photodetectors because they serve critical roles in influencing the electrical characteristics of two-dimensional (2D) materials. For stable 2D heterostructures, planar WSe2 monolayers have
attracted a lot of interest. Using first-principles energetic and dynamic calculations, we find that the transition from the indirect band gap of WSe2 bulk phase to the direct band gap of a two-dimensional plane is caused by the formation of p-n hetero junctions. Furthermore, it
affects the carrier concentration transport mode and results in a significant orbital spin coupling. There is no virtual frequency in the phonon dispersion curve across the Brillouin zone at zero pressure. The interaction of the nearest neighbour atoms causes the frequency of the two acoustic
modes of the G-point to be zero, as well as the frequency of the two optical films to merge. The theoretical analysis can provide support for the transport of two-dimensional planar carriers in electronics and photonics.
Interface Engineering of Core–Shell Structured Co3O4@Ni(OH)2 Nanowires for Energy Storage Device
Authors: Zhang Jinling , Yu Xin
Published: February 2023

For energy storage systems, it is essential to build high performance electrodes. Electrochemical properties of electrode materials have been attributed to important forensic storage facilities. However, the single structured electrode materials exhibited poor conductivity and cycling
stability. In this paper, Co3O4/Ni(OH)2 nanowire was prepared by a simple hydrothermal method. The as-manufactured product showed a specific capacitance of 1266 Fg−1 at 1 Ag−1. The as-fabricated Co3O4@Ni(OH2//active
carbon device can achieve a maximum energy density of 32.5 Wh kg−1. This superior electrochemical performance can be ascribed to the unique spatial structure, demonstrating the potential application in next generation micro/nanodevices.
Application of Physics-Informed Neural Networks Algorithm to Predict the Vorticity of a Moving Cylindrical Flow Field
Authors: Hou Longfeng , Zhang Lingfei , Zhu Bing
Published: February 2023

Turbulence is a typical physical phenomenon which is involved in many engineering fields. The combination of machine learning and turbulence modeling is an emerging research direction in the field of fluid mechanics. The current achievements in this research direction have strongly
verified its feasibility and indicated a positive prospect for the application of machine learning for the turbulence modeling. Machine learning can help discover models of complex dynamical systems from the data directly. In this work, we apply the machine learning algorithm called the physics-informed
neural networks (PINNs) to predict the vorticity of a moving cylindrical flow field. Through the neural network method based on physical information, a neural network model is established to simulate the flow around a moving cylinder. Results demonstrate that the vorticity predicted by PINNs
algorithm are in good agreement with the benchmark results.
Study of Polyvinylidene Fluoride Thin Film Power Generation Performance Based on Human Foot Movement
Authors: Tian Xiao-chao , Liu Jin-long , Hou Jun , Gai Hou-jun , Yang Jie , Sun Zhen-wen , Liu Xia
Published: February 2023

In order to find the programs that can be generated at low frequency, a scheme of using (polyvinylidene fluoride) piezoelectric film to collect the energy of human foot movement is proposed, and related theoretical analysis and experimental studies are conducted. The solution is capable
of energy harvesting during low-frequency walking to provide power for wearable microelectronic devices. First, a system dynamics model was built to analyze the kinematics of the foot, and then COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software was used to simulate the vibration mode, stress–strain,
and output voltage of the piezoelectric film. Finally, the experimental platform was built for experimental testing. The experimental results show that when the PVDF piezoelectric film on the back of the human foot is deformed, the output power will vary in a certain range. When the thickness
of the piezoelectric film is 122 μm and the bending amplitude is 60°, the maximum output voltage in the experiment is 25.2 V, the output current is 0.0783 mA and the output power is 1.981 mW. The experimental results verify the feasibility of the scheme design and provide a new
solution for powering electronic components.
Measuring Device for Belt Wedge Profile Parameters of Automobile V-Ribbed Belt Based on Included Angle of Slope Change Algorithm
Authors: Tang Wusheng , Zhang Jinhua , Yin Chunmei , Li Qinghua , Shi Yaochen
Published: February 2023

In order to solve the problem of fast and accurate measurement of belt wedge profile parameters in the production of automobile V-ribbed belt, a measuring scheme for belt wedge profile parameters of automobile V-ribbed belt based on the included angle of slope value change algorithm
is proposed, and the corresponding measuring device for belt wedge profile parameters of automobile V-ribbed belt is designed to collect belt wedge profile data points of automobile V-ribbed belt, and by analyzing the characteristics of belt wedge profile of PK type automobile V-ribbed belt,
a kind of profile segmentation algorithm based on the included angle of slope change is proposed. By analyzing the characteristics of belt wedge profile of the PK type automobile V-ribbed belt, we propose an algorithm based on the included angle of slope variation for segmentation of belt
wedge profile data points of automobile V-ribbed belt, and carry out the profile segmentation of collected belt wedge profile data points, and carry out the arc fitting of the segmented slot bottom data points to calculate the belt wedge profile parameters of measured belt. Based on the included
angle of slope variation algorithm, the measurement of the belt wedge profile parameters of automobile V-ribbed belt is realized, and automatic measurement of the belt wedge profile parameters of automobile V-ribbed belt is achieved, which improves the measurement efficiency and ensures the
measuring accuracy while avoiding the influence of human factors.
Friction and Sealing Performance of the Textured End-Face Seal in the Internal Mixer
Authors: Xu Yan , Yang Fu-Qin , Yu Jian-Ping , Han Xiao-Jie , Song Yu-Meng
Published: February 2023

To improve the friction and sealing performance of the end-face seal device in the internal mixer, surface texture technology was introduced into the end-face seal device. Based on the hydrodynamic lubrication theory, the effects of different shape textures on the end-face sealing performance
under steady and unsteady conditions were simulated, and friction-wear experiments were carried out by the Swiss Anton Paar Friction-Wear Tester TRB3. The theoretical study indicates that under the same conditions, the friction performance and seal effect of Ellipse⊥ and Triangle⊥
textured end-face seals are better, with lower leakage and better average dimensionless pressure. The experimental study indicates that under the same texture parameters, the Triangle⊥ and Ellipse⊥ textured pins have the lowest friction coefficient when the texture depth is 6 μm
and 9 μm respectively, and the texture area ratio is 5.56%. In addition, the Triangle⊥ texture has the best friction performance under lower texture depths and the same area ratio. Therefore, it’s concluded that reasonable texture shapes and parameters can effectively
improve the friction and seal performance of the end-face seal device in the internal mixer.
A Semantic Segmentation Method for Three-Dimensional Image of Internet Data Center Machine Room Constructed by Intelligent Power Internet of Things Based on Fabric Architecture
Authors: Li Qiang , Qin Long , Lu Weizhi , Zhang Yaqiang , Wang Xu
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a three-dimensional image semantic segmentation method is studied. First, the data such as the equipment image in the computer room is obtained, and the data encryption and decentralized storage are completed through the consensus algorithm in the blockchain technology;
Then transfer the data to the platform layer to realize the unified access, aggregation and distribution of the image data of the equipment in the machine room; Finally, the R-CNN method is used to introduce the FPN feature pyramid network to characterize the multi-scale image features of
the equipment in the machine room. The candidate region generation network is used to obtain the region of interest of the equipment image, and the semantic segmentation of the three-dimensional image is realized through the classifier. The experimental results show that this method can accurately
identify the equipment in the computer room and has good image data transmission performance.
Power Transformer Price Forecasting Method Based on Variational Modal Decomposition and Improved Chaotic Grey Wolf Optimization-Random Forest
Authors: Liu Shuanglin , Qiu Xiaolong , Dun Zhuo
Published: February 2023

To reasonably estimate the cost of power transformers, the price trends of power transformers are analyzed based on data mining techniques. A power transformer price prediction method is proposed. This method first conducts Pearson correlation analysis on the influencing factors of
power transformer prices, and extracts the main influencing factors to obtain the training data set. Second, the historical price data of power transformers are decomposed using variational modal decomposition, and the trends of each modal component are analyzed. Third, the decision tree parameters
and splitting feature parameters in the random forest regression model are optimized using the improved chaotic gray wolf algorithm, and each modal component is further predicted. Finally, multilayer prediction results are accumulated to calculate the power transformer price results. The results
of the computational examples show that the improved random forest can accurately predict the price changes of power transformers. Thus, it can effectively improve the level of material procurement and reduce the influence of human factors.
Who deserves to be sanctioned? A vignette experiment of ethnic discrimination among street-level bureaucrats
Authors: Fekjær Silje , Øverbye Einar , Terum Lars Inge
Published: February 2023

To study discrimination in labour/housing markets, and among street-level bureaucrats in the welfare state, present both theoretical and methodological challenges. In the sociological study of discrimination, experiments have seldom been used to study how street-level bureaucrats make their decisions. The context of decision-making is different in the state and in markets, but experimental methods can provide new knowledge of how perceptions of deservingness may potentially lead to discrimination in the welfare state. Using a vignette experiment on Norwegian street-level bureaucrats ( N = 645), we investigate if their perceptions of recipients’ ethnic background, and perceived ‘unfavourable’ behaviour, affect the propensity to impose a time-limited termination of unemployment benefits due to non-compliance with activity requirements. The experiment finds that the propensity to terminate the unemployment benefit was initially less for the recipient with an ethnic minority name, compared to the recipient with an ethnic majority name. However, when information about ‘unfavourable’ behaviour was added to the vignette, the propensity to sanction the ethnic minority recipient strongly increased. The results suggest that perceived deservingness-traits are crucial for understanding possible discrimination when street-level bureaucrats face ethnic minorities in the welfare state. Ethnic markers interact with markers of ‘deservingness’. Theoretical and methodological implications when studying potential discrimination among street-level bureaucrats are discussed.
How Well Does Non-mass Enhancement Correlate With DCIS/Invasive Cancer?
Authors: Huang Kai , Dufresne Maria , Baksh Mizba , Nussbaum Samuel , Abbaszadeh Kasbi Ali , Mohammed Ashary , Advani Pooja , Morozov Andrey , Bagaria Sanjay , McLaughlin Sarah , Gabriel Emmanuel
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Contiguous non-mass enhancement (NME) often coexists with a solid tumor component on MRI, but it can be challenging to predict whether NME represents invasive breast cancer, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), benign disease, or biopsy site reaction. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between the size/extent of NME and the presence of invasive cancer and/or DCIS on final pathology.

Methods

This was a single institution retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained breast cancer registry (2010-2020). Female patients who underwent surgical resection were included if they had a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer (with or without DCIS) and had an MRI showing both a solid mass and contiguous NME. The size of NME on MRI was compared with the size of invasive cancer and/or DCIS on the final pathology.

Results

From a total of 3443 patients, 225 patients were included. 86.2% had invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and 12.0% had invasive lobular carcinoma 76.9% were ER+, 16.4% were HER2+, and 13.3% were triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). 18.7% received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) of whom 31% achieved a complete radiographic/pathologic response. Pearson correlation coefficients (r) between the size of NME and invasive cancer/DCIS showed a strong and positive correlation of MRI NME with DCIS on pathology in patients without NCT. Subgroup analysis showed the strongest correlations for NME and DCIS among non-white (r = .70) and HER2 + patients (r = .74) who did not receive NCT.

Conclusions

Strong correlations between NME and DCIS were found for HER2 + disease and non-white patients, but only modest correlations were found for other patient/disease characteristics. These correlations may impact decisions in surgical approach.
Impact of Frailty on Patient Outcomes after Hartmann’s Reversal: A NSQIP Analysis
Authors: Kooragayala Keshav , Lou Johanna , Butchy Virginia , Balakrishnan Archana , Sandilos Georgianna , Kwiatt Michael , Giugliano Danica , McClane Steven
Published: February 2023

Background

Colostomy reversal is a common procedure. Patients often have baseline comorbidities associated with postoperative morbidity. We utilized a modified frailty index (mFI-5) to predict postoperative complications.

Methods

Patients who underwent elective, open Hartmann’s reversal were queried from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database. Patients were stratified to low, medium, or high frailty groups. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared, ANOVA, and logistic regression.

Results

There were 9272 patients with Hartmann’s reversal. 48.78%, 30.31%, and 12.89% had low, moderate, or high frailty, respectively. High frailty was associated with cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, reintubation, prolonged intubation, early reoperation, and mortality. After multivariate analysis, high frailty was associated with prolonged intubation (OR 3.147, P = .001), reintubation (OR 2.548, P = .002), and reoperation (OR 1.67, P < .001).

Conclusions

Frailty was associated with greater risk of postoperative complications in patients undergoing Hartmann’s reversal. Frailty may be a useful adjunct to stratify for patients who are at risk for postoperative complications.
The Efficacy of Liposomal Bupivacaine in Regional Nerve Blocks for Below Knee Amputations
Authors: Allsbrook Anthony P. , Gotsch Abigail , To Jennifer , Tran Christina , Pellegrino Anna N.
Published: February 2023

Postamputation pain is highly prevalent. Opioids are often utilized postoperatively; however, they have significant side effects. Liposomal bupivacaine (LB) was introduced to extend nerve blocks from hours into days. Regional nerve blocks with LB for below knee amputation (BKA) is a novel approach which may reduce opioid use after surgery. A retrospective review was conducted for patients who had received LB nerve blocks compared to none for postoperative pain control in BKAs. Daily average opioid consumption was evaluated from the time in postoperative acute care unit until day of discharge in oral morphine equivalents (OME). 69 patients who underwent below knee amputations were reviewed. The mean average daily OME was lower in the LB group compared to control group(25.0 vs 50.5 OME, respectively; P = .002) A higher percentage of patients in the study group were categorized in the minimal opioid use when compared to the control group LB regional nerve blocks for the BKA population are considered a novel approach in pain control. Our exploratory study shows that patients who received LB nerve blocks may have decreased opioid consumption after surgery.
Rare Presentation of Umbilical Condyloma
Authors: Ward Caroline C. , Moro Amika , Bennett Robert D.
Published: February 2023

Syphilis is associated with 3 stages of infection—primary, secondary, and tertiary—each with their own associated clinical findings. Secondary syphilis manifests with condyloma lata and other cutaneous findings, and typically occurs several months after the initial infection. Condyloma lata are primarily found in the genital area, but may also be found in other locations such as the umbilicus, axilla, and neck. This brief report describes an umbilical condyloma lata discovered in a patient with secondary syphilis and HIV co-infection and discusses surgical excision and fulguration as an option for definitive management.
Feasibility of Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Veterans Managing Chronic Pain
Authors: Chen Shu-Ping , Liu Huei-Tsz , Appelt Joanne C. , Klassen Bonnie L. , Liu Lili , Smith Janet L. , Miguel-Cruz Antonio
Published: February 2023

Background. Chronic pain impacts people's activity participation, productivity, mental health, and sense of wellbeing. Purpose. This study aimed to (1) evaluate the feasibility of the Mindfulness-Based Chronic Pain Management (MBCPMTM) program on reducing pain perception and enhancing the quality of life, and (2) understand veterans’ experience with the program. Method. The pretest-posttest single-group, mixed-methods design was used. Thirty-one veterans were offered the 12-week intervention. The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 were administered before and after the program. Focus groups and individual interviews were conducted to understand the experience. Findings. Participants’ PCS scores improved ( Z = −3.116, p = .002), but the pain intensity did not change significantly. Themes from qualitative data include: (1) We are not alone! (2) I have a sense of awareness, choices, and control; and (3) It does work! Implications. The study shows preliminary feasibility of MBCPMTM for veterans. This promising effect supports future rigorous testing of this intervention.
Effect of void formation according to resin content on composite joint area
Authors: Kim Dong-Chul , Choi Jeoung Sik , Shin Hyo-Soon , Jung InKyun , Heo Young-Woo
Published: February 2023

The field of application of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer expands as well as the size of the component where composite material is applied. Due to the size limitation of the prepreg used, it is difficult to apply 1ply to large parts. Many studies have been reported on the bolt joint that assembles parts and parts for the joint area, butt and overlap design for joining dissimilar materials, and mechanical properties. Although the mechanical properties of the joint areas are important, studies on the microstructure are also needed. In this study, the microstructure was observed by controlling the type of subsidiary materials in the bagging process by applying prepregs of the same composition. It was found that the air and resin flow inside the prepreg acted differently depending on the type of subsidiary material. The flow of resin during curing was inferred from the influence of subsidiary materials and explained by connecting it with the microstructure. The behavior of the resin determined thickness, resin, and void contents of the composite. This flow affects voids in the joint area, causing differences in microstructure and mechanical properties. There was no significant difference in the tensile strength of the laminate specimens manufactured according to the process, but the minimum strength was found in the specimens containing many void contents. The joint specimen showed a decrease in strength as the void content increased. It was discussed that this reduced the adhesive force of the specimen due to the effect of the void generated in the joint area.
No Kagyin, No Funerals Among the Dagaaba of North-West Ghana: Understanding the Symbolic and Ritual Aspects of the Uses of Crops
Authors: Dakurah George , Kanwetuu Vincent de Paul , Bodomo Adams
Published: February 2023

Using symbolic interactionism theory, this paper examines the role of sorghum in funeral celebrations among the Dagaaba of North-west Ghana. Employing mixed methods, the objectives are to examine: (1) the main stages of Dagaaba funerals, and (2) the symbolic and ritual uses of kagyin for funerals. The results revealed that kagyin is the first crop item that is placed beside a deceased to portray his/her farming trade whilst alive. Similarly, the study established that kagyin is given to undertakers which is used for performing required ritual sacrifices. Furthermore, it emerged from the study that sorghum is used for brewing dagadaa for funeral guests.
Levels of elements in selected food substances that support usage in the management and treatment of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Lartey Michael , Frimpong-Manso Samuel , Amoah Stephen O , Boamah Daniel , Mohammed Awan Abdul Rashid
Published: February 2023

Background

The use of fruits and vegetables for the management and treatment of erectile dysfunction has gained popularity due to the cheaper cost, accessibility and perceived absence of side effects. Much of the work done on plant-based aphrodisiacs has focused on the phytochemistry of secondary metabolites.

Aim

This work sought to analyze selected fruits and vegetables that are commonly used in the management of erectile dysfunction in Ghana and quantify the levels of some micro- and macro-elements necessary for good penile health in order to determine the usefulness or otherwise of the selected produce.

Methods

Energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy was used to detect and quantify the levels of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), selenium (Se), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), and zinc (Zn) in carrot roots, cucumber fruit, garlic bulb, ginger rhizome, nutmeg fruit, sweet potato tuber, tiger nut tuber and watermelon fruit.

Results

The analysis revealed the presence of K, Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn. Levels of Se were below detection. The concentration of K was the highest in each of the food substances. However, in terms of recommended daily allowance, Mg had the highest contribution. Cucumber fruit and the rind of watermelon fruit had the highest levels of micro- and macro-elements implicated in erectile dysfunction.

Conclusion

The potential use of these foods to treat and manage erectile dysfunction may not only be due to the presence of phytochemicals alone but also the presence of significant levels of micro- and macro-elements required for good penile health.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenator as a bridge to definitive treatment in patients with persistent infective endocarditis
Authors: Fereydooni Soraya , Hu Kevin , Shang Michael , Vallabhajosyula Prashanth
Published: February 2023

Considering the worsening opioid epidemic, complicated infective endocarditis (IE) secondary to intravenous drug use (IVDU) that fails medical management is increasingly common. We present a 31-year-old patient post tricuspid valve replacement who relapsed with recurrent IE and secondary complications of severe tricuspid stenosis and regurgitation, ventricular septal defect (VSD), pulmonary emboli, right-sided heart failure with severe hepatic congestion, and cardiogenic shock. Despite maximal medical management, the patient remained in septic and cardiogenic shock with a potential disposition to hospice care. Upon consulting cardiothoracic surgery, she underwent a first-stage valvectomy with central Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) as a bridge to definitive treatment. After clearance of infection, she underwent a second-stage valve replacement, VSD repair, and final ECMO decannulation. Our case alludes to ECMO as a potential bridge for patients with complicated infective endocarditis who fail medical management and are high-risk candidates for immediate definitive surgical management.
Determinants of perinatal mortality at tertiary hospitals in East Wollega, Western Ethiopia: a case–control study
Authors: Oljira Rut , Merdassa Elias , Kejela Gemechu , Fentahun Firehiwot , Tilahun Temesgen
Published: February 2023

Objective

This study was performed to determine predisposing factors of perinatal mortality among deliveries at tertiary hospitals in East Wollega, Western Ethiopia.

Methods

This institutional-based unmatched retrospective case–control study involved 810 samples (270 perinatal deaths and 540 controls) selected from the study hospitals. For each case, two controls were selected. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. Data were entered into EpiData Version 3.1 and exported to SPSS Version 25 for analysis. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were performed. The adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was calculated, and statistical significance was declared at a P-value of <0.05.

Results

The statistical analysis revealed the following independent determinants of perinatal mortality: rural residence, lack of antenatal care, preterm delivery, induction of labor, presence of obstetric complications, breech presentation, shoulder presentation, low birth weight, congenital malformation, and not using a partograph.

Conclusion

Given the determinant factors of perinatal mortality in the study area, health facilities are recommended to implement appropriate antenatal care, intrapartum care, and neonatal care to prevent perinatal mortality. They are also advised to use partographs and ensure better access to antenatal care facilities.
The effect of surface gloss on categorical color constancy in real scenes
Authors: Gao Qiang , Qiang Yan , Zhao Juanjuan , Wang Long , Ma Ruiqing
Published: February 2023

Categorical color constancy has been widely investigated and found to be very robust. As one of object material properties, the surface gloss was found to barely contribute to color constancy in a natural viewing condition. In this study, the effect of surface gloss on categorical color constancy was investigated by asking eight observers to categorize 208 Munsell matte surfaces and 260 Munsell glossy surfaces under D65, F, and TL84 illuminants in a viewing chamber with a uniform gray background. A color constancy index based on the centroid shift of the color category was used to evaluate color constancy degree of each color category across illumination changes from D65 to F or TL84 illuminant. The result showed that both matte and glossy surfaces showed almost perfect color constancy on all color categories under F and TL84 illuminants, and there was no significant difference between them. This result suggests that surface gloss has little effect on categorical color constancy in a uniform gray background where the local surround cue was present, which is consistent with the previous findings.
Impact of Inconsistent Behavior of Drivers on Estimation of Critical Gap at Multi-Lane Roundabouts
Authors: Bhasin Chirag , Kumar Pardeep
Published: February 2023

Critical gap (CG) estimation, while taking into consideration inconsistent driver behavior resulting from heterogeneous traffic conditions, is a tedious task. Several methods dealing with CG estimation have been developed in the past but limited research has been done in this regard for developing countries and there is a lot of scope to explore this field considering varying traffic conditions on the roads. In this study, the maximum likelihood method (MLM), one of the most prominent methods of determining CG, has been compared with two other methods developed for traffic conditions prevailing in India. These methods use different techniques for calculating the CG, such as minimization of absolute differences of gaps given by Ahmad et al., and minimization of square root of standard deviation of actual gap value from the predicted CG as per the Indian Highway Capacity Manual (Indo-HCM). This paper discusses the estimation of CG for five different categories of vehicles using these methods to counter the heterogeneity of traffic. Data has been collected on two urban multi-lane roundabouts in India. SOLVER in MS Excel is used to optimize the functions defined in all three methods. The results reveal that the method suggested by Ahmad et al. gives the most consistent results which are close to actual value when driver behavior is inconsistent. The other two methods are also reasonably consistent, with the method given in Indo-HCM being slightly better than MLM. Further, two-way ANOVA was applied to check the consistency of results.
Using an Affordable Motion Capture System to Evaluate the Prognostic Value of Drop Vertical Jump Parameters for Noncontact ACL Injury
Authors: Corban Jason , Karatzas Nicolaos , Zhao Kevin Y. , Babouras Athanasios , Bergeron Stephane , Fevens Thomas , Rivaz Hassan , Martineau Paul A.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Knee kinematic parameters during a drop vertical jump (DVJ) have been demonstrated to be associated with increased risk of noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. However, standard motion analysis systems are not practical for routine screening. Affordable and practical motion sensor alternatives exist but require further validation in the context of ACL injury risk assessment.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To prospectively study DVJ parameters as predictors of noncontact ACL injury in collegiate athletes using an affordable motion capture system (Kinect; Microsoft). We hypothesized that athletes who sustained noncontact ACL injury would have larger initial and peak contact coronal abduction angles and smaller peak flexion angles at the knee during a DVJ.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

102 participants were prospectively recruited from a collegiate varsity sports program. A total of 101 of the 102 athletes (99%) were followed for an entire season for noncontact ACL injury. Each athlete performed 3 DVJs, and the data were recorded using the motion capture system. Initial coronal, peak coronal, and peak sagittal angles of the knee were identified by our software.

Results:

Five of the 101 athletes sustained a noncontact ACL injury. Peak coronal angles were significantly greater and peak sagittal flexion angles were significantly smaller in ACL-injured athletes ( P = .049, P = .049, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.88, 0.92, and 0.90 for initial coronal, peak coronal, and peak sagittal angle, respectively. An initial coronal angle cutoff of 2.96° demonstrated 80% sensitivity and 72% specificity, a peak coronal angle cutoff of 6.16° demonstrated 80% sensitivity and 72% specificity, and a peak sagittal flexion cutoff of 93.82° demonstrated 80% sensitivity and 74% specificity on the study cohort.

Conclusion:

Increased peak coronal angle and decreased peak sagittal angle during a DVJ were significantly associated with increased risk for noncontact ACL injury. Based on ROC analysis, initial coronal angle showed good prognostic ability, whereas peak coronal angle and peak sagittal flexion provided excellent prognostic ability. Affordable motion capture systems show promise as cost-effective and practical options for large-scale ACL injury risk screening.
Source-Based L1 Student Writing Development: Analyzing the Relationships Among Functional Dimensions of Source Use and the Quality of Source Use
Authors: Doolan Stephen M.
Published: February 2023

Source-based writing is a complex and frequently occurring task type in postsecondary education. While a large body of research now exists investigating source-based student writing, few studies have used corpus-based methods to investigate L1 student performance on source-based writing tasks and to connect this performance to the holistic quality of source use. The current study investigates the relationship among functional dimensions of source use, operationalized for each text ( N = 150) as factor scores from a previously conducted multidimensional analysis, and the quality of source use through a simultaneous multiple regression. Then, using the two functional dimensions that emerged as significant predictors of the holistic quality of source use, a qualitative analysis was conducted to investigate how the most strongly loading variables on those two functional dimensions may be contributing to the effectiveness of source use. Implications are discussed as they relate to the development of source-based L1 student writing.
Self-catalytic phthalonitrile polymer with improved processing performance and long-term thermal stability
Authors: Zhang Xinyang , Wang Xinyang , Zhang Shuo , Wu Minjie , Rong Jianxin , Han Wenshuang , Zhao Tao , Yu Xiaoyan , Zhang Qingxin
Published: February 2023

Phthalonitrile monomer with alkyl, pyrimidine, and amino is successfully prepared by nucleophilic substitution. The monomer is cured by autocatalysis of active hydrogen in the amino group, in order to obtain polymers through different temperature procedures. The low melting point (96°C) and curing kinetics of the monomer are analyzed by DSC, which manifest a processing window of 163°C. With lower energy barriers to overcome, the apparent activation energy ( E a) is 59.6 kJ mol−1 after fitting and calculating, signifying that the monomers are easier to process into polymers. This study focuses on the usefulness of the polymer, especially the long-term thermal stability by the comparison of numerous commonly used polymers. The consequence demonstrates that the polymer could be used for long periods at 300°C, keeping weight loss within 5 wt.% for 6 h. The advantage of long-term usage at high temperatures has not been proved in previous works on phthalonitrile polymer. Moreover, the thermal and thermal-mechanical stability are examined through TGA and DMA. The results indicate preferable thermal properties, that the glass transition temperature is up to 400°C.
The effect of test track wheel radius on the evaluation of linear eddy current braking performance of high-speed maglev train
Authors: Hu Jia , Chen Chunjun , Wang Dongwei , Zhiying He
Published: February 2023

To study the braking performance of linear eddy current brake (LECB) for high-speed maglev trains, experimental studies are usually carried out using a track wheel with a finite radius and a track wheel eddy current brake (TWECB) with a certain radius of curvature. However, the geometrical differences between the two braking methods due to the track radius will lead to differences in their effective excitation air gap during operation. Therefore, the excitation air gap model and eddy current braking force model of TWECB and LECB are developed in this study. Through the excitation air gap model and eddy current braking force model proposed in this paper, the difference in braking performance between TWECB and LECB in the velocity domain and operating air gap domain can be obtained for different track radii. The correctness of the finite element analysis (FEA) method is verified by experimental data, and the eddy current density, braking force and air gap flux density formed by eddy current braking at different track radii are analysed using the finite element method. The results show that an appropriate test track radius can significantly improve the accuracy of TWECB in estimating the braking performance of LECB.
The effects of the return channel geometry on the aerodynamic performance of a centrifugal compressor: A numerical study
Authors: Safari MR , Anbarsooz M , Niazmand H
Published: February 2023

In this paper, steady RANS (Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes) numerical modeling of the return system of a centrifugal compressor is carried out to investigate the effects of various geometrical parameters on the aerodynamic performance of the return system. The effects of using splitter vanes in the return-channel, the width ratio of the return channel and the diverging angle of the walls are examined. Numerical results revealed that using splitter vanes can enhance the stage averaged pressure ratio and polytropic efficiency by 0.74 and 3.21%, respectively. Results showed that increasing the width ratio can enhance the efficiency and pressure ratio near the choke region, however, it has marginal effects on the performance at low flow coefficients. Results also showed that, due to the negligible effects of the diverging angle on the stage performance, using diverging hub wall can reduce the total axial length of the multistage compressor. Finally, a new return system is designed based on the combination of the best geometrical parameters found in the current study. Simulation results demonstrated that the average pressure ratio and efficiency of the compressor have been improved by 0.99% and 4%, respectively, by the newly developed return system compared to the original design.
Incidence and Clinical Outcomes of New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Critically Ill Patients with COVID-19: A Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Kensara Raed , Aljuhani Ohoud , Korayem Ghazwa B , Alkofide Hadeel , Almohareb Sumaya N , Alosaimi Yousef S , Altebainawi Ali F , Bin saleh Khalid , Andas Norah Al , Harbi Shmeylan Al , Harthi Abdullah F Al , Ashkan Uhood , Alghamdi Rema , Badreldin Hisham A , Hafiz Awatif , AlFaifi Mashael , Alqahtani Rahaf A , Vishwakarma Ramesh , Alenazi Abeer A , Alalawi Mai , mahboob Reem , Alfouzan Renad A , Al Tuhayni Layan B , Qahtani Nouf Al , Sulaiman Khalid Al
Published: February 2023

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) can contribute to a significant increase in mortality and morbidity in critically ill patients. Thus, our study aims to investigate the incidence and clinical outcomes associated with the new-onset Afib in critically ill patients with COVID-19. A multicenter, retrospective cohort study includes critically ill adult patients with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care units (ICUs) from March, 2020 to July, 2021. Patients were categorized into two groups (new-onset Afib vs control). The primary outcome was the in-hospital mortality. Other outcomes were secondary, such as mechanical ventilation (MV) duration, 30-day mortality, ICU length of stay (LOS), hospital LOS, and complications during stay. After propensity score matching (3:1 ratio), 400 patients were included in the final analysis. Patients who developed new-onset Afib had higher odds of in-hospital mortality (OR 2.76; 95% CI: 1.49-5.11, P =  .001). However, there was no significant differences in the 30-day mortality. The MV duration, ICU LOS, and hospital LOS were longer in patients who developed new-onset Afib (beta coefficient 0.52; 95% CI: 0.28-0.77; P < .0001,beta coefficient 0.29; 95% CI: 0.12-0.46; P < .001, and beta coefficient 0.35; 95% CI: 0.18-0.52; P < .0001; respectively). Moreover, the control group had significantly lower odds of major bleeding, liver injury, and respiratory failure that required MV. New-onset Afib is a common complication among critically ill patients with COVID-19 that might be associated with poor clinical outcomes; further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Patterns of Gender Equitable Attitudes and Behaviors Among Young Men: Relationships With Violence Perpetration and Masculinity Ideologies
Authors: Casey Erin A. , Willey-Sthapit Claire , Hoxmeier Jill C. , Carlson Juliana
Published: February 2023

This study used latent profile analysis with data from 481 U.S. men to examine patterns of men's attitudes toward gender equity and their engagement in gender-equitable (GE) behaviors. Five resulting profiles included groups with (a) high endorsement of both GE attitudes and behaviors, (b) low endorsement of both, (c) mid-range endorsement of both, (d) strong endorsement of GE attitudes, but low engagement in action, and (e) low endorsement of GE attitudes but high participation in GE behavior. Worryingly, this last group reported higher rates of violence perpetration than other groups, while simultaneously reporting higher rates of participation in gender-based violence prevention actions.
Home-Based Primary Care for Older Adults: Matched Case-Control Evaluation of Program’s Impact on Healthcare Utilization
Authors: Kling Samantha M. R. , Garvert Donn W. , Lessios Anna Sophia , Yefimova Maria , Martin Marina , Sheffrin Meera , Winget Marcy
Published: February 2023

Home-based Primary Care (HBPC) is an alternative model for homebound older adults. Healthcare utilization in HBPC was evaluated with a matched case-control design. Medical providers and social workers provided in-home visits. Enrolled patients were matched to controls on age, prior hospitalizations, and frailty risk. Difference-in-differences in utilization of primary care, specialty, and hospital services between 1-year pre- and 1-year post-enrollment were evaluated with hierarchical linear models. Analyses included 117 HBPC cases and 328 controls. HBPC cases had a significant increase in primary care visits compared to controls (7.8 ± 0.6; p < .0001) but significantly decreased utilization of in-clinic primary care visits (−3.2 ± 0.6; p < .0001). In-clinic specialty visits and hospital services did not differ between cases and controls (all p’s ≥ .75). Homebound patients accessed high-touch primary and social care, which is typically unachievable in clinic settings; however, additional work is needed to optimize services and target in-home care to impact healthcare utilization.
Postoperative results after iris reconstruction with an Artificialiris® implant with consideration of the cause of the iris defects
Authors: Riedl Jana C , Pfeffer Nora , Giers Bert C , Schuster Alexander K , Vossmerbaeumer Urs
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To test the hypothesis that severely damaged eyes are more likely to experience postoperative complications after an ArtificialIris® (AI) implantation than other iris defects.

Methods

Patients after iris reconstruction with an AI were included in this consecutive case series of the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Mainz, Germany. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), objective refraction (KR 8900 Topcon, Tokyo, Japan) and Scheimpflug imaging of the anterior segment with Pentacam® (Oculus, Wetzlar, Germany)and postoperative complications were evaluated.

Results

Thirty-two eyes of 32 patients after AI implantation were included, separated in partial or total aniridia in a closed globe (group 1, n = 16) and after perforating globe injury (group 2, n = 16). Two or more previous surgeries in the corresponding eye were found in two patients (12.5%) in group 1 and eleven patients (69%) in group 2 (p = 0.001). The time span between initial trauma or iris defect and AI implantation was not significantly related to the occurrence and severity of postoperative complications ( p = 0.89). Postoperative complications were classified into mild and severe and showed no differences between group 1 and group 2 (mild: 1 vs. 0; p = 0.52; severe: 5 vs. 6 p = 0.8).

Conclusion

AI implantation is a treatment option for various iris defects. An individual, case-based decision should be made with strict indication also considering other possible methods for pupil reconstruction. The postoperative outcome is not affected by the time point of AI implantation. So, an implantation is already possible as early as six weeks after the previous trauma.
Self-rated health implications of noise for open-plan office workers: An overview of the literature
Authors: Felipe Contin de Oliveira Sofia , Aletta Francesco , Kang Jian
Published: February 2023

In open-plan offices (OPO), workspaces without ground-to-ceiling dividers, noise is one of the most complained about aspects, causing physical and psychological impacts. With the increasing interest for a human-centric design, notably after the publication of ISO 22955, this review aims to identify the main noise sources in this office layout and the employees’ perception of related health effects, evaluating the interventions proposed to overcome their impacts. Following the PRISMA guidelines, a review was conducted using the Scopus and PubMed databases, considering subjective questionnaires distributed in offices, which could include physical workspace assessment. It excluded studies limited to: (a) laboratory experiments; (b) isolated cognitive tests; (c) office layouts other than OPO; (d) systematic reviews; and (e) mathematical models. Sixty studies were identified and the screening process resulted in 11 selected for inclusion, which indicated irrelevant speech, chatting, and telephone ringing as the main noise sources causing productivity loss, stress, and low comfort rates due to distraction and lack of privacy. To overcome these impacts, researchers suggested the use of sound-absorbing surfaces, separated zones for different tasks and headphones, although their effectiveness relies on human behaviour and economic feasibility. Thus, the evidence indicates that noise is a recurrent issue in OPOs, it demonstrates the importance of appropriate acoustic performance of the workspace and the necessity of new studies regarding OPO workers’ perception of noise and their health, particularly after the COVID-19 new safety guidelines.
Bye bye romance, welcome reputation: An analysis of the digital enclosure of dating
Authors: Bandinelli Carolina , Cossu Alberto
Published: February 2023

In contemporary ‘platformised’ societies, digital businesses play a key role in producing and reproducing romantic cultures. In this article, we explore how the digital industry of dating has translated existing romantic cultures into datafied algorithmic infrastructures. We do so by looking at the interplay between the interconnected dimensions of a) existing mainstream cultures of love and sex, b) their datafication and codification into dating apps, and c) how the latter produce a new understanding of dating that is functional to create digital enclosures. Drawing on existing scholarly research as well as original qualitative data, we argue that dating apps reproduce dating as a de-romanticised social practice which is part of a digital lifestyle organised around a reputational logic.
Submerged ultrasonic plastic welding: A computational and experimental investigation
Authors: Bose Sandeep , Prakash Anand , Chelladurai H , Ponappa K
Published: February 2023

Thermoplastics hold utmost importance in the day-to-day life of modern-day society, being widely employed in water transport and storage vessels commonly made from thermoplastics such as PVC, i.e., polyvinyl chloride, and PP, i.e., polypropylene. This urge for a joining technique is applicable even with water in the vessel or the submerged case. The present investigation explores ultrasonic welding as an option to weld thermoplastics in water-submerged conditions. We have performed FEM simulations and experimental validation to prove the viability of the proposed ultrasonic welding process used in welding PVC and PP in water-submerged conditions. The discussed results demonstrate a decrease in melting and degradation of adherend material at the weld interface while welding PVC and PP in water-submerged conditions and attaining 65.78% and 107% of weld strength, unlike their open-air counterparts, respectively.