bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering interventions for people living with dementia: A European survey
Authors: van Corven Charlotte T. M. , Bielderman Annemiek , Diaz Ponce Ana , Gove Dianne , Georges Jean , Graff Maud J. L. , Gerritsen Debby L.
Published: July 2022

Aims

We aim to identify existing empowerment interventions for people living with dementia and to explore which used interventions and projects are considered empowering and why.

Design

This was an online survey.

Methods

We conducted an online survey between May 2018 and July 2018 amongst professionals interested in dementia care in Europe. Interventions were clustered within the ecological model for health promotion. Reasons from respondents as to why they considered interventions to be empowering were analysed and structured according to a recently developed conceptual framework of empowerment for people living with dementia.

Results

Seventy‐three respondents from 23 countries together mentioned 98 interventions or projects, of which 90 were unique. Interventions focused on the (inter)personal (n = 54), organizational (n = 15), communal (n = 6) and societal (n = 15) levels. A broad range of interventions were considered empowering, but no interventions were specifically developed for, nor aimed at, empowerment. Reasons as to why respondents considered these interventions as empowering fitted the framework's domains.

Conclusion

This European survey provides insights into interventions considered empowering for people living with dementia. An important step that needs to be taken is to develop and test interventions that specifically aim to promote empowerment for people living with dementia.

Impact

Empowerment may encourage people with dementia to live the life they choose, and focus on what is possible, instead of what is no longer possible. Many interventions are considered as empowering for people living with dementia, however no interventions could be identified that were specifically developed for or aimed at empowerment. This study shows that for promoting empowerment, it is necessary to develop and test interventions that specifically aim for empowerment, do this in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, and in this way support people living with dementia to live according to their competencies, talents and wishes.
The New Trolley Problem: Driverless Cars and Deontological Distinctions
Authors: Woollard Fiona
Published: July 2022

Discussion of the ethics of driverless cars has often focused on supposed real‐life versions of the famous trolley problem. In these cases, a driverless car is in a position where crashing is unavoidable and all possible crashes risk harm: for example, it can either continue on its current path and crash into five pedestrians or swerve and crash into one pedestrian. There are significant disanalogies between the human versions of the trolley problem and situations faced by driverless cars which affect the application and moral significance of key deontological distinctions, such as the distinction between doing and allowing harm. The application and moral significance of the doing/allowing distinction in the context of the behaviour of driverless cars depend on (a) our conception of the behaviour of driverless cars; (b) the forms of driverless cars that are developed and used; (c) the background expectations of programmers/manufacturers/owners of driverless cars and the conditions of being able to put those cars on the roads. These are as yet unsettled – and may even be undetermined. Nonetheless, trolley problems may still be useful in thinking about the ethics of driverless cars.
Shareholder election of CSR committee members and its effects on CSR performance
Authors: Khoo Eunice S. , Chen Li , Monroe Gary S.
Published: July 2022

We examine the election of directors to corporate social responsibility (CSR) committees and whether shareholder votes influence CSR committee effectiveness. Our study is motivated by the importance that shareholders place on CSR and the responsibilities of the board in overseeing a firm's CSR practices. We find that CSR committee members receive greater shareholder support than other directors. We further find that among CSR committee members, those who are more experienced and skilled receive greater shareholder support. Furthermore, when a firm's CSR performance is poorer (better), CSR committee members receive lower (greater) shareholder support compared with other directors. Finally, we find that through voting, shareholders can increase the efficacy of the CSR committee, leading to improvements in CSR committee structure and performance. Overall, our results suggest that shareholders value the services and expertise of CSR committee members and hold them accountable for CSR performance. Shareholder votes are also effective in enhancing CSR performance.
Identification of maize seed varieties based on stacked sparse autoencoder and near‐infrared hyperspectral imaging technology
Authors: Fu Lvhui , Sun Jun , Wang Simin , Xu Min , Yao Kunshan , Cao Yan , Tang Ningqiu
Published: July 2022

Maize seed variety identification is the key to improving the quality and yield of maize. The study aimed to investigate a stacked sparse autoencoder combined with a cuckoo search (CS) optimized support vector machine (SSAE‐CS‐SVM) to meet the identification requirements of accurate detection. First, the near‐infrared (NIR) (871.61–1766.32 nm) hyperspectral data of maize seeds were processed using Savitzky–Golay (SG) combined with standard normal variables (SNV). Subsequently, SSAE, SAE, principal component analysis (PCA), and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling were employed for feature extraction. Finally, the recognition model was constructed using the SoftMax regression model, SVM, and CS optimized SVM (CS‐SVM). The results indicated that the SSAE‐CS‐SVM model achieved satisfactory performance (the training set and testing set accuracies were 99.45% and 95.81%, respectively). This study confirmed the great potential of combining NIR hyperspectral imaging technology with deep learning algorithms for maize seed variety identification.

Practical applications

The identification of maize seed varieties is extremely important for ensuring seed purity and improving maize quality and yield. A method based on SSAE and NIR hyperspectral imaging technology was studied to identify maize seed varieties. The method proposed in this paper could identify maize seed varieties non‐destructively and accurately, which provided a new way for the online detection of seed varieties.
Thermal processing of canned dika kernel (ogbono) soup and the neural prediction of its canning parameters
Authors: Fasogbon Beatrice Mofoluwaso , Adebo Oluwafemi Ayodeji , Adeniran Hezekiah Adekanmi , Taiwo Kehinde Adekunbi
Published: July 2022

The canning of dika kernel (ogbono) soup into a ready‐to‐eat form has been recommended because of the special skills and time required in preparing this popular West African soup. This study investigated the thermal processing of ogbono soup, calculated the lethality (F) and process time, and predicted same using the artificial neural network (ANN) model. A dataset of the processing time, cold point, and retort temperature obtained during the heat penetration study was used for the model training, validating, and testing steps. There was a 54%, 71%, and 75% log‐reduction of the surviving Bacillus stearothermophilus spores after heat processing of the canned soup at 110, 116, and 121°C respectively. Heat penetration parameters revealed that canning the soup at 121°C for a total process time of about 31 min was the best thermal processing condition. Results also showed that the ANN model was a useful and high‐reliability tool in predicting the sterilization value of the canned soup, with a high degree of accuracy (R2 closer to 1) at all the canning temperatures considered in the study. Unsupervised learning of the neurons models to predict the output data from the input data was also suggested in the thermal canning processes.

Practical Applications

In the canning industry, the sterilization process is aimed to inactivate potentially harmful microorganisms, leaving the food product safe and of good quality. This research evaluated the canning parameters to process dika kernel (ogbono) soup. The total processing time of 31 min at 121°C obtained in the study, indicate that higher temperature and shorter time would produce a commercially sterile soup. However, the heat penetration test requiring higher temperature and longer processing times could necessitate increased energy costs. This research shows that the use of the machine learning (artificial neural network) model could accurately predict lethality rate (F‐value) better than the non‐linear model like the response surface methodology (RSM), providing an advantage of estimating process time, thus reducing operational costs.
Structural clues to articular calcified cartilage function: A descriptive review of this crucial interface tissue
Authors: Evans Lucinda A. E. , Pitsillides Andrew A.
Published: July 2022

Articular calcified cartilage (ACC) has been dismissed, by some, as a remnant of endochondral ossification without functional relevance to joint articulation or weight‐bearing. Recent research indicates that morphologic and metabolic ACC features may be important, reflecting knee joint osteoarthritis (OA) predisposition. ACC is less investigated than neighbouring joint tissues, with its component chondrocytes and mineralised matrix often being either ignored or integrated into analyses of hyaline articular cartilage and subchondral bone tissue respectively. Anatomical variation in ACC is recognised between species, individuals and age groups, but the selective pressures underlying this variation are unknown. Consequently, optimal ACC biomechanical features are also unknown as are any potential locomotory roles. This review collates descriptions of ACC anatomy and biology in health and disease, with a view to revealing its structure/function relationship and highlighting potential future research avenues. Mouse models of healthy and OA joint ageing have shown disparities in ACC load‐induced deformations at the knee joint. This raises the hypothesis that ACC response to locomotor forces over time may influence, or even underlie, the bony and hyaline cartilage symptoms characteristic of OA. To effectively investigate the ACC, greater resolution of joint imaging and merging of hierarchical scale data will be required. An appreciation of OA as a ‘whole joint disease’ is expanding, as is the possibility that the ACC may be a key player in healthy ageing and in the transition to OA joint pathology.
The changes of parental functioning of the patients with bipolar disorder and major depression since discharging from hospital: A longitudinal study
Authors: Liu Sara Hsin‐Yi , Chen Shing‐Chia , Hsieh Ming. H. , Shiau Shu‐Jen , Lin Kuan‐Chia , Hsiao Fei‐Hsiu
Published: July 2022

Aims and Objectives

This study examined the changes in patients' parental functioning and the associated factors, including manic, depressive symptoms and social support from before discharge to 6 months post‐discharge.

Background

For parents with bipolar disorder and major depression, parenting is a recovery factor for patients, but little research examines the dynamic parental functioning from acute hospitalisation to a remission stage.

Design

A longitudinal design was used. The STROBE Checklist were used in presenting this research.

Methods

Participants were inpatients with bipolar disorder or major depression (n = 33) recruited within one week before discharge from the acute psychiatric ward in Taiwan. Data on parental functioning was collected four times: before discharge (T1), the 1st (T2), the 3rd (T3) and the 6th (T4) months of post‐discharge. Baseline parental functioning before admitting to the acute word was retrospectively assessed at T0. The questionnaires included positive and negative domains of parenting practice, hypomanic/manic symptoms, depressive symptoms and social support. Generalised estimating equations were applied for data analysis.

Results

The negative parenting domains (poor monitoring, inconsistent discipline) decreased during hospitalisation but increased at one month post‐discharge, except corporal punishment at 3‐months discharge. The positive parenting domains (parental involvement and nurturance/responsiveness) did not recovery to baseline. While clinical symptoms remained stable during 6 months post‐discharge, social support decreased at 3 and 6 months post‐discharge. Higher depressive symptoms and low social support were associated with positive parenting domains but not related to negative parenting domains. Manic symptoms were not associated with positive or negative parenting domains.

Conclusions

Positive parenting domains did not fully return to the usual situation during 6 months post‐discharge.

Relevance to clinical practice

Parenting functioning recovery program targeting at the impacts of depressive symptoms on the parenting functioning and insufficient social support is needed from hospitalisation to post‐discharge.
Culturally and linguistically diverse men's experiences of support following perinatal death: A qualitative study
Authors: Pearson Thomas , Obst Kate , Due Clemence
Published: July 2022

Aims and objectives

To explore culturally and linguistically diverse men's experiences of support after perinatal death, including barriers and facilitators to support and how healthcare providers, systems and policies can best support families.

Background

Many groups of culturally and linguistically diverse families in Australia are at higher risk of experiencing perinatal death. Culturally sensitive bereavement services are essential; however, there has been no previous research specifically examining culturally and linguistically diverse men's experiences of support following perinatal death.

Design

Individual semi‐structured interviews were completed with healthcare providers, community leaders and culturally and linguistically diverse men who had experienced a perinatal death in Australia (n = 16). Data were analysed using Thematic Analysis and COREQ guidelines were followed.

Results

Men's need for support following perinatal death was associated with stigma, and shaped by culturally‐relevant religion and ritual, and connection to community and family. Significant barriers to men seeking and gaining support included challenges with self‐advocacy and navigating the woman‐centred nature of perinatal care in Australia.

Conclusions

Culturally and linguistically diverse men's specific needs should be included in the development of policy and practice surrounding perinatal death. While perinatal bereavement care guidelines acknowledge the importance of culturally informed care following perinatal death, there remains a lack of culturally specific supports available, particularly for culturally and linguistically diverse men.

Relevance to clinical practice

Specific recommendations from this research include increasing community liaison officers or cultural consultants in hospitals and support organisations; providing culturally and linguistically diverse support groups; adopting family‐centred and father‐inclusive language in all perinatal death support services and ensuring clear communication and targeted assistance for culturally and linguistically diverse men to self‐advocate for their baby and access to support.

Patient or public contribution

This study came out of consultation with community members and member checking of results was conducted to ensure adequate representation of participants' views.
An Indirect Digital Technique to Transfer 3D Printed Casts to a Mechanical Articulator With Individual Sagittal Condylar Inclination Settings Using CBCT and Intraoral Scans
Authors: Yang Shengtao , Dong Bo , Zhang Qianqian , Li Junying , Yuan Quan , Yue Li
Published: July 2022

With the widespread application of digital impression techniques in prosthetic dentistry, accurate intraoral scan mounting, and virtual articulator parameters setting as per patients’ anatomic structures are essential for treatment planning and restoration fabrication, especially for complex rehabilitation cases; meanwhile, marginal fit checking, occlusal adjustment, and porcelain layering of restorations are also crucial procedures in all cases in which the analog procedure to mount maxillary arches on a mechanical articulator is still required. This technique article presents an indirect digital approach that can first achieve virtual intraoral scan mounting and sagittal condylar inclination value setting of an Artex virtual articulator based on bony structures provided by a single cone beam computed tomography scan. It then facilitates the transfer of virtually mounted intraoral scans from the virtual articulator to the matched Artex mechanical articulator by relating a digitally scanned mounting plate of the Artex mechanical articulator to the virtual articulator, printing the intraoral scan and mounting plate scan assembly, and then mounting the printed casts on the mechanical articulator based on the printed mounting plate. This technique eliminates the conventional facebow transfer and protrusive bite registration procedures and offers a straightforward approach for the seamless integration of virtual environments and analog workflows into clinical practice. It aids in the design of restorations that are harmonious with the mandibular movements and reduces chairside adjustment time.
The psychological imprint of inequality: Economic inequality shapes achievement and power values in human life
Authors: Du Hongfei , Götz Friedrich M. , King Ronnel B. , Rentfrow Peter J.
Published: July 2022

Objective

This research investigates how economic inequality shapes basic human values across three cross‐national, cross‐regional, and longitudinal studies (Ntotal = 219,697).

Methods

Study 1 examined the relationship between objective economic inequality and values across 77 societies from all five continents (n = 170,525). Study 2 examined the relationship between objective economic inequality and values across 51 regions in the United States (n = 48,559). Study 3 used a two‐year longitudinal design to examine the relationship between perceived economic inequality and values (n = 613).

Results

Results from multilevel modeling and longitudinal analysis suggested that people who lived in areas with higher economic inequality and who perceived higher economic inequality were more likely to endorse achievement and power values. Moreover, people who perceived higher economic inequality were less likely to endorse benevolence values. These effects were robust in within‐country tests (Studies 2 and 3) but not in the cross‐country tests (Study 1) when accounting for sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that economic inequality may act as an antecedent of self‐enhancement values, particularly within countries. In a world of rising economic inequality, this may over time lead to an overemphasis on achievement and power which have been shown to erode social cohesion.
Optimal voting rules for international organizations, with an application to the United Nations
Authors: Caro‐Burnett Johann
Published: July 2022

This paper studies a self‐enforcing mechanism for an international organization that interacts repeatedly over time. A random shock determines which countries would be in favor of or against taking a collective action. If the organization wants to take the action, incentives must be provided. The optimal stationary equilibrium is equivalent to a mechanism characterized by voting weights. When the discount factor is not too high, the voting weights are random. Moreover, within a class of parameters, the optimal mechanism mimics the way voting power is distributed among United Nations members via Security Council seats. That is, the model rationalizes the existence of a council with permanent members who have veto power, nonpermanent members, and the exact number of permanent and nonpermanent members observed at the Security Council.
Burden and risk factors for relapse following successful treatment of uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition in young children: Secondary analysis from a randomised trial in Niger
Authors: Bliznashka Lilia , Grantz Kyra H. , Botton Jérémie , Berthé Fatou , Garba Souna , Hanson Kerstin E. , Grais Rebecca F. , Isanaka Sheila
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to quantify the burden of relapse following successful treatment for uncomplicated severe acute malnutrition (SAM) and to identify associated risk factors in rural Niger. We used data from 1490 children aged 6−59 months discharged as recovered from an outpatient nutritional programme for SAM and followed for up to 12 weeks after admission. Postdischarge SAM relapse was defined as weight‐for‐height Z‐score <−3, mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) <115 mm or bipedal oedema after having been discharged as recovered. Postdischarge hospitalisation was defined as admission to inpatient SAM treatment or hospitalisation for any cause after having been discharged as recovered. We used multivariate log‐binomial models to identify independent risk factors. After programmatic discharge, 114 (8%) children relapsed to SAM and 89 (6%) were hospitalised. Factors associated with SAM relapse were discharge during the lean season (relative risk [RR] = 1.80 [95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.22−2.67]) and larger household size (RR = 1.56 [95% CI = 1.01−2.41]), whereas older child age (RR = 0.94 [95% CI = 0.88−1.00]), higher child MUAC at discharge (RR = 0.93 [95% CI = 0.87−1.00]) and maternal literacy (RR = 0.54 [95% CI = 0.29−0.98]) were protective factors. Discharge during the lean season (RR = 2.27 [95% CI = 1.46−3.51]) was independently associated with postdischarge hospitalisation. Future nutritional programmes in the context of Niger may consider modification of anthropometric discharge criteria or the provision of additional home support or follow‐up during the lean season as potential interventions to prevent relapse. More research including postdischarge follow‐up is needed to better understand the sustainability of treatment outcomes after discharge and the type of intervention that may best sustain recovery over time. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01613547.
The Cognitive Demands of Friendship
Authors: Brinkerhoff Anna
Published: July 2022

Recently, some philosophers have argued that friendship demands that we have positive beliefs about our friends even when such beliefs go against the evidence. Call this the doxastic account of the cognitive demands of friendship. I consider both motivations and worries for the doxastic account before developing a new account: the attentional account. According to it, friendship places demands on how we direct our attention. I argue that the attentional account accommodates the considerations that motivate the doxastic account and weathers the worries that trouble it. Along the way, I question the assumption that friendship's cognitive demands center on positivity.
Application of Green‐enhanced Nano‐lantern as a bioluminescent ratiometric indicator for measurement of Arabidopsis thaliana root apoplastic fluid pH
Authors: Tran Quang , Osabe Kenji , Entani Tetsuyuki , Wazawa Tetsuichi , Hattori Mitsuru , Nagai Takeharu
Published: July 2022

Plant root absorbs water and nutrients from the soil, and the root apoplastic fluid (AF) is an important intermediate between cells and the surrounding environment. The acid growth theory suggests that an acidic AF is needed for cell wall expansion during root growth. However, technical limitations have precluded the quantification of root apoplastic fluid pH (AF‐pH). Here, we used Green‐enhanced Nano‐lantern (GeNL), a chimeric protein of the luciferase NanoLuc (Nluc) and the green fluorescent protein mNeonGreen (mNG), as a ratiometric pH indicator based on the pH dependency of bioluminescence resonance energy transfer efficiency from Nluc to mNG. Luminescence spectrum of GeNL changed reciprocally from pH 4.5 to 7.5, with a pKa of 5.5. By fusing GeNL to a novel signal peptide from Arabidopsis thaliana Cellulase 1, we localised GeNL in A. thaliana AF. We visualised AF dynamics at subcellular resolution over 30 min and determined flow velocity in the maturation zone to be 0.97± 0.06 μm/s. We confirmed that the developing root AF is acidic in the pH range of 5.1−5.7, suggesting that the AF‐pH is tightly regulated during root elongation. These results support the acid growth theory and provide evidence for AF‐pH maintenance despite changes in ambient pH.
Heart rate variability predicts outcome of short‐term psychotherapy at the workplace
Authors: Balint Elisabeth Maria , Daniele Viktorija , Langgartner Dominik , Reber Stefan O. , Rothermund Eva , Gündel Harald , Von Wietersheim Jörn , Buckley Thomas , Jarczok Marc N.
Published: July 2022

The bio‐psycho‐social model highlights intra‐individual and inter‐individual interactions, including psychotherapy. The processing of these interactions within a person takes place, among others, in the central autonomic network (CAN). The CAN's autonomic output to the periphery can be indexed by heart rate variability (HRV), representing individual adaptive capacity. Further, the CAN influences the hypothalamus‐pituitary–adrenal axis with its product cortisol. The aim consisted in investigating HRV and cortisol as well as their relation to symptom course in response to short‐term psychotherapy. A single‐arm, uncontrolled, explorative study was conducted at an outpatient psychotherapeutic consultation in the workplace offered to employees with mental or psychosomatic complaints. Questionnaires included symptoms of depression, irritation and functional impairment. Circadian profile of HRV and salivary cortisol concentrations collected pre and post short‐term psychotherapeutic intervention (4–12 sessions) were assessed. Multilevel‐linear mixed regressions were calculated. Out of 29 participants (mean age 42; 72% female), 24% were on sick leave from work. Cortisol concentrations were neither affected by intervention nor by symptom course. The proportion of individuals showing a vagally mediated HRV in the range of the lowest quartile assessed for age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls was reduced at follow‐up (pre 34%, post 22%; p = .017). Higher vagally mediated HRV at baseline predicted lower symptom burden at follow‐up. Thus, the results support the assumption that HRV reflects the capability of an organism to adapt and recover. Patients with reduced HRV might need additional psychotherapeutic sessions to achieve the same symptom improvements than patients with retained HRV.
Efficient neutralization of daratumumab in pretransfusion samples using a novel recombinant monoclonal anti‐idiotype antibody
Authors: Aung Fleur , Spencer Jeff , Potter David , Pham Thuy‐Dung , Farooqui Naheed , Platt Kathryn R. , Zayat Raja , Oliveira Melanie , Smeland‐Wagman Robin , Petersen Eric , Kaufman Richard M.
Published: July 2022

Background

Anti‐CD38 antibodies such as daratumumab (DARA) are critical therapies for multiple myeloma and other diseases. Unfortunately, anti‐CD38 antibodies cause panreactivity in indirect antiglobulin tests (IATs), complicating blood compatibility testing. The anti‐CD38 interference is most often mitigated by treating reagent red blood cells (RBCs) with dithiothreitol (DTT). However, when using the DTT method, not all RBC antibody specificities can be detected (e.g., anti‐K), and the DTT method is impractical for some transfusion services. We evaluated the ability of a new anti‐idiotype antibody to neutralize DARA in vitro and eliminate the anti‐CD38 interference.

Study Design and Methods

A recombinant monoclonal rabbit anti‐DARA idiotype antibody (“anti‐DARA”) was generated. The ratio of anti‐DARA required to neutralize DARA in spiked samples was evaluated in IATs performed in gel. IATs performed in tube were used to demonstrate that anti‐DARA allows alloantibody detection in the presence of DARA. Plasma samples from 29 patients receiving DARA were treated with a fixed quantity of anti‐DARA (120 μg) before performing antibody detection tests (screens) in tube.

Results

Anti‐DARA used at or above a 1:1 ratio with DARA eliminated the DARA interference with IATs. Anti‐DARA allowed detection of both alloanti‐E and alloanti‐K in the presence of DARA. In 27/29 (93.1%) clinical samples, 120 μg anti‐DARA was sufficient to neutralize the DARA in 100 μl patient plasma.

Discussion

An anti‐DARA:DARA ratio as low as 1:1 is sufficient to neutralize DARA in solution. A fixed amount of anti‐DARA eliminates the anti‐CD38 interference in most patient samples.
Voluntary activation of muscle in humans: does serotonergic neuromodulation matter?
Authors: Kavanagh Justin J. , Taylor Janet L.
Published: July 2022

Ionotropic inputs to motoneurones have the capacity to depolarise and hyperpolarise the motoneurone, whereas neuromodulatory inputs control the state of excitability of the motoneurone. Intracellular recordings of motoneurones from in vitro and in situ animal preparations have provided extraordinary insight into the mechanisms that underpin how neuromodulators regulate neuronal excitability. However, far fewer studies have attempted to translate the findings from cellular and molecular studies into a human model. In this review, we focus on the role that serotonin (5‐HT) plays in muscle activation in humans. 5‐HT is a potent regulator of neuronal firing rates, which can influence the force that can be generated by muscles during voluntary contractions. We firstly outline structural and functional characteristics of the serotonergic system, and then describe how motoneurone discharge can be facilitated and suppressed depending on the 5‐HT receptor subtype that is activated. We then provide a narrative on how 5‐HT effects can influence voluntary activation during muscle contractions in humans, and detail how 5‐HT may be a mediator of exercise‐induced fatigue that arises from the central nervous system.

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Applied Electromagnetics Course with a Conceiving-Designing-Implementing-Operating Approach in Engineering Education
Authors: Pérez-Cerquera Manuel Ricardo , Hurtado Londoño Jairo Alberto , Cruz-Bohorquez Juan Manuel
Published: July 2022

This paper describes and discusses the implementation of a project-based undergraduate course on applied electromagnetics in electronics engineering with a conceiving-designing-implementing-operating (CDIO) approach involving active project-based learning (PBL). The course, which requires a combination of mathematical and physics concepts for its completion, allows students to understand the principles of
electromagnetic transmission theory in wireless communication systems. This paper presents the course proposal, its project description, and results hinting at the relationship with the CDIO process. The proposed projects allow students to engage in core concepts such as complex vectors, Maxwell’s equations, boundary conditions, Poynting's theorem, uniform plane waves, reflection and transmission of waves, waveguides, cavity resonators, and computer-assisted design. The proposed methodology results suggest that students lowered their perception of the difficulty of the course, and most students recognized a better learning process of the core concepts for this course. In addition, students’ final course grades showed an average improvement of approximately 6% compared with the final grades of other groups with different methodologies.
Biofilm and persister cell fomation variability in clinical isolates of Klebsiella pneumoniae in Colombia
Authors: Posada Leonardo , Acosta Ivan C. , Zárate Lina , Rodríguez Paula , Huertas Mónica Gabriela , Zambrano María Mercedes
Published: July 2022

Klebsiella pneumoniae is an opportunistic pathogen associated with nosocomial infections. Persister cells are a fraction of a bacterial population that can escape antibiotic treatment and are associated with antibiotic therapy failure. In this work, we analyzed persistent cells in planktonic cultures and biofilms using10 K. pneumoniae clinical isolates and four different antibiotic types. The isolates had different antibiotic susceptibility profiles that did not correlate with their capacity to form biofilms. Persister cells were found under all conditions tested, although their population numbers varied depending on the antibiotic used. A larger number of persister cells were found in biofilms than in planktonic cultures. Antibiotic treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole resulted in the largest persister cell sub-population compared with other antibiotics tested, while ciprofloxacin was the antibiotic that produced fewer persister cells. These results indicate that K. pneumoniae clinical isolates vary not only in their susceptibility to antibiotics but also in properties relevant to diseases, such as biofilm formation and persister cell populations.
Diurnal physiological behavior of seedlings in the Amazon rainforest: generalist versus specialist species of shade and sun
Authors: Ramos-Montaño Carolina , Vanegas-Cano Leidy Johana , Cárdenas-Avella Nancy Milena , Pulido-Herrera Karen Lizeth , Buitrago-Puentes Sindy Paola
Published: July 2022

The regenerative success of generalist and specialist species may be due to differences in their physiology. Measurements of stomatal conductance (gS) provide an efficient way to infer immediate physiological responses of plants to diurnal environment variation. Radiation, air temperature, and relative humidity were measured in the Colombian Amazon rainforest, to identify the extreme environmental conditions that limit the gS of seedlings in three site types: small gap, open forest, and closed forest. We hypothesized that the diurnal physiological performance of generalist species must be plastic in these three environments. Morphological traits, gS, and leaf temperature were evaluated in seedlings of four species: one generalist, common to all sites, and one specialist from each site. The gap site was warmer and more irradiated than the other two sites, which caused several midday physiological depressions, limited seedling survival, and facilitated the specialized strategy. Leaf and air temperatures were strong determinants of overall gS. The generalist species was physiologically plastic and, at some hours of the day, more efficient than the specialists from open forest andclosed forests. This factor interplay could allow the coexistence of both types of plants.
Enhancing the Biofidelity of an Upper Cervical Spine Finite Element Model Within the Physiologic Range of Motion and Its Effect on the Full Ligamentous Neck Model Response
Authors: Hadagali Prasannaah , Cronin Duane S.
Published: July 2022

Contemporary finite element (FE) neck models are developed in a neutral posture; however, evaluation of injury risk for out-of-position impacts requires neck model repositioning to non-neutral postures, with much of the motion occurring in the upper cervical spine (UCS). Current neck models demonstrate a limitation in predicting the intervertebral motions within the UCS within the range of motion, while recent studies have highlighted the importance of including the tissue strains resulting from repositioning FE neck models to predict injury risk. In the current study, the ligamentous cervical spine from a contemporary neck model (GHBMC M50 v4.5) was evaluated in flexion, extension, and axial rotation by applying moments from 0 to 1.5 N·m in 0.5 N·m increments, as reported in experimental studies and corresponding to the physiologic loading of the UCS. Enhancements to the UCS model were identified, including the C0-C1 joint-space and alar ligament orientation. Following geometric enhancements, an analysis was undertaken to determine the UCS ligament laxities, using a sensitivity study followed by an optimization study. The ligament laxities were optimized to UCS-level experimental data from the literature. The mean percent difference between UCS model response and experimental data improved from 55% to 23% with enhancements. The enhanced UCS model was integrated with a ligamentous cervical spine (LS) model and assessed with independent experimental data. The mean percent difference between the LS model and the experimental data improved from 46% to 35% with the integration of the enhanced UCS model.
The Construction of Biologically Relevant Fiber-Reinforced Hydrogel Geometries Using Air-Assisted Dual-Polarity Electrospinning
Authors: Nowak James F. , Kerns Andrew , Patel Priyank , Batzinger Kate , Tong Xing , Samuel Johnson
Published: July 2022

Fiber-reinforced hydrogels are a class of soft composite materials that have seen increased use across a wide variety of biomedical applications. However, existing fabrication techniques for these hydrogels are unable to realize biologically relevant macro/mesoscale geometries. To address this limitation, this paper presents a novel air-assisted, dual-polarity electrospinning printhead that converges high-strength electric fields, with low velocity air flow to remove the collector dependency seen with traditional far-field electrospinning setups. The use of this printhead in conjunction with different configurations of deformable collection templates has resulted in the production of three classes of fiber-reinforced hydrogel prototype geometries, viz., (i) tubular geometries with bifurcations and mesoscale texturing; (ii) hollow, nontubular geometries with single and dual-entrances; and (iii) three-dimensional (3D) printed flat geometries with varying fiber density. All three classes of prototype geometries were mechanically characterized to have properties that were in line with those observed in living soft tissues. With the realization of this printhead, biologically relevant macro/mesoscale geometries can be realized using fiber-reinforced hydrogels to aid a wide array of biomedical applications.
Falkner–Skan Problem for a Stretching or Shrinking Wedge With Nanoparticle Aggregation
Authors: Yaseen Moh , Rawat Sawan Kumar , Kumar Manoj
Published: July 2022

The Falkner–Skan problem for stretching or shrining wedge is generalized for nanoparticle aggregation effects. The model is developed in the presence of the magnetic field, thermal radiation, and suction/injection effects. For the inclusion of nanoparticle aggregation effects, modifications of the Krieger-Dougherty model and Maxwell and Bruggeman models are used to predict effective viscosity and thermal conductivity of titania–ethylene glycol (TiO2/EG) nanofluid, respectively. These models are already tested experimentally in the past and are known to predict the true values for the TiO2/EG nanofluid with aggregated nanoparticles. The system of equations depicting the Falkner–Skan problem for a wedge with nanoparticle aggregation effects is transformed via similarity transformations and solved via the “bvp4c” function, which is accessible by matlab software. The validation of results is done through a comparison of results with published literature and a comparison of present results with the “bvp5c” function and RKF-Shooting Technique. As suggested by the previously published experimental studies, it is observed that the nanoparticle aggregation effects are strong even when the nanoparticle concentration is low. The heat transmission rate of TiO2/EG nanofluid is seen as higher with nanoparticle aggregation effects in comparison to its absence. The streamlines become denser and more intense with the presence of a magnetic field. The results of this study apply to several thermal systems, engineering, and industrial process, which utilize nanofluid for cooling, and heating processes.
Thermal Modeling of Water-in-Tube Type Evacuated Tube Solar Collectors to Predict Outlet Water Temperature: An Experimental Validation
Authors: Singh Pushpendra , Gaur M. K. , Tiwari G. N. , Kumar Anil
Published: July 2022

Thermal model is developed to predict the outlet water temperature with respect to time for water-in-tube type evacuated solar collector connected in series. Developed mathematical expression is validated for the single collector and two collectors connected in series. In each collector, there are 20 evacuated tubes connected to the storage tank. Coefficient of determination (R2), reduced chi-square (χ2), and root mean squared error (RMSE) have been calculated to show the prediction accuracy of the developed model. For single and two collectors connected in series, R2 is 99.73% and 99.90%, χ2 is 0.46 °C and 0.39 °C, and RMSE is 0.70 °C and 0.65 °C, respectively. Predicted value shows good agreement with the experimental value. At a constant mass flowrate, the maximum outlet temperature reaches 53.10 °C and 71.50 °C for single and two collectors in series, respectively. The maximum energy for the single collector is 4.12 kW and 4 kW, while for two collectors connected in series, the maximum energy is 7.08 kW and 6.69 kW. Average thermal efficiency is 4.45% and 4.51% and average exergy efficiency is 9.66% and 15.17% for single and series-connected collectors, respectively. Developed model can design energy-efficient “water-in-tube type evacuated tube collector” for domestic and industrial applications.
A Computational Model to Simulate Thunderstorm Downbursts for Wind Turbine Loads Analysis
Authors: Pratapa Phanisri P. , Nguyen Hieu H. , Manuel Lance
Published: July 2022

The generation of wind fields is of interest in the study of the structural performance of wind turbines in critical events, such as thunderstorm downbursts. Various methods ranging from the use of empirical data to employing computational simulations are typically adopted to study the response of wind turbines in downburst flow fields. While the former approach is limited in the ability to account for accurate and spatially resolved details of the flow field, the latter is expensive and, therefore, has limitations in its use. As an alternative, in this work, we propose a paused downburst model in which a snapshot of a time-dependent computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is used to generate “mean” wind fields during thunderstorm downbursts. The developed model for the mean wind field is validated against recorded downburst data in the literature. The turbulent component of the wind field is generated using computationally inexpensive techniques based on Fourier-based power spectral density functions and coherence functions. In an illustrative example, the combined mean and turbulence wind fields are generated and applied on a utility-scale wind turbine to study structural load characteristics during a downburst event.
Promoting Active Aging Through Sports Participation: A Qualitative Exploration of Serious Leisure Among Older Chinese Adults
Authors: Zhou Wenting , Qiu Yajun , Tian Haibo
Published: July 2022

China’s population of older individuals reached 264.02 million in 2020, an increase of 5.44% from 2010. This study explores how participation in serious leisure sports, which have enduring benefits for older adults, contributes to active aging. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 older participants aged 60–78 years who had participated in a leisure sport activity for 1 year or longer. A thematic analysis was conducted, and four themes emerged: body improvements, positive emotions, optimistic life attitudes, and social interactions. Older adults who participate in serious leisure sports are empowered via practice and learning opportunities to engage with their aging bodies, pursue psychological benefits, and jointly maintain leisure groups. The findings of this study contribute to our understanding of the “rights-based” approach to active aging and allow us to identify serious leisure sports as an active way for older adults to improve their quality of life.
Exercise Capacity and Biomarkers Among Children and Adolescents With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Silva Lea Barbetta Pereira da , Mercês de Jesus Gilmar , Bessa Junior José de , Silva Valter Abrantes Pereira da , Mattos Ivanilde Guedes de , Jenerette Coretta Melissa , Carvalho Evanilda Souza de Santana
Published: July 2022

Background: Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic hemoglobinopathy globally and systemically affects body functioning, decreasing exercise capacity. Objective: To assess exercise capacity through the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and biomarkers in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study involving 20 children and adolescents from Brazil. Demographic and socioeconomic data were obtained. Baseline measurements included biomarkers (red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cells, platelets, reticulocytes, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine phosphokinase, C-reactive protein, interleukin 6, and fetal hemoglobin). The following data were obtained before, during, and after the 6MWT: heart rate, blood pressure, and peripheral oxygen saturation. Results: Eighteen children and adolescents ages 5–14 years old were analyzed, 61.1% boys, 100% black or brown, and 61.1% in primary education, with low household income. The average distance walked in 6MWT was 463.8 (137.7) m, significantly less than the predicted value (P < .001). The distance of 6MWT was associated positively with age (P = .042) and inversely with reticulocyte count (P = .42) and interleukin 6 (P = .00). Age modified the effect of interleukin 6 in younger children (P = .038). Conclusion: Our findings suggest increased baseline levels of biomarkers of hemolysis and inflammation impact on 6MWT performance.
Features and Effects of Athlete Burnout Among Top Amateur Female Rugby Union Players
Authors: Martin Kirsty , Hong Hee Jung
Published: July 2022

This paper addresses the contributing factors and effects of athlete burnout in women’s rugby. Current and former top amateur female rugby union players (N = 10, age 19–21 yr) were interviewed regarding their experiences of high-performance rugby and of athlete burnout. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the data. The findings show that seven players exhibited the three dimensions of burnout: emotional and physical exhaustion, reduced sense of accomplishment, and sport devaluation. Significant antecedents included role conflict, high physical demands, and coaching behaviors that resulted in maladaptive outcomes. The findings were in line with self-determination theory and showed consistencies with previous literature regarding athlete burnout. Meaningful and original findings related to the female rugby setting were also presented and discussed. Therefore, the study provides new insights into female rugby players’ experience of athlete burnout and contributes to the understanding of athlete burnout in the context of women’s rugby, which has been underresearched.
Plant diversity reduces satellite-observed phenological variability in wetlands at a national scale
Authors: Dronova Iryna , Taddeo Sophie , Harris Kendall
Published: July 2022

Plant diversity may enhance stability of ecosystem function and its satellite-derived indicators. However, its potential to stabilize phenology, or seasonal changes in plant function, is little understood, especially in understudied systems with high biodiversity potential such as wetlands. Using a large sample of U.S. wetlands and a new satellite-based indicator of phenological stability, we found that plant diversity was negatively associated with interannual phenological variability after controlling for covariates representing climate, site conditions, and spectral fluctuations. Furthermore, plant diversity and covariates better explained phenological variability than stability in annually summarized satellite-based biomass indicators used by earlier studies. Last, a subsequent path analysis indicated that phenological variability could mediate plant diversity relationship with the latter stability. Our results suggest that contributions of plant diversity to seasonality of ecosystems may have a stabilizing role in their functioning and offer a new basis for assessing biodiversity-stability relationships across broad geographic extents.