bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A neural network sliding mode method for nonlinear motors
Authors: Zou Hongbo , Zheng Jiawei 
Published: October 2022

AbstractExternal disturbance and random noise put forward higher requirements for the stability of motors in daily work. Here, a neural network sliding mode method is showed in this article. First, a new sliding mode surface change rate and a disturbance compensation measure are defined. They reduce the gain value to prevent chattering. Second, to improve the neural network, the adaptive theory is used to update the weights, and a peak‐valley measure is designed to limit the output range. Third, the stability of this method is proved by mathematical derivation of a typical nonlinear system. Last, a typical motor model is built on the Simulink, and the influence of external disturbance and random noise on the motor is analyzed. The result shows the effectiveness of this method.
Interaction between increasing body mass index and spinal cord injury to the probability of developing a diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Eisenberg Dan , Arnow Katherine D. , Barreto Nicolas B. , Davis Kristen , LaVela Sherri L. , Frayne Susan M. , Nevedal Andrea L. , Wu Justina , Harris Alex H. S. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractBackgroundThe prevalence of obesity and comorbidities is high in the population with spinal cord injury (SCI). We sought to determine the effect of SCI on the functional form of the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and assess whether SCI‐specific mapping of BMI to risk of developing NAFLD is needed.MethodsLongitudinal cohort study comparing Veterans Health Administration patients with a diagnosis of SCI to a 1:2 matched control group without SCI. The relationship between BMI and development of NAFLD at any time was assessed with propensity score matched Cox regression models; NAFLD development at 10‐year with a propensity score matched logistic model. The positive predictive value of developing NAFLD at 10 years was calculated for BMI 19–45 kg/m2.Results14,890 individuals with SCI met study inclusion criteria, and 29,780 Non‐SCI individuals in matched control group. Overall, 9.2% in SCI group and 7.3% in Non‐SCI group developed NAFLD during the study period. A logistic model assessing the relationship between BMI and the probability of developing a diagnosis of NAFLD demonstrated that the probability of developing disease increased as BMI increased in both cohorts. The probability was significantly higher in the SCI cohort at each BMI threshold (p < 0.01), and increased at a higher rate compared with the Non‐SCI cohort as BMI increased 19–45 kg/m2. Positive predictive value for developing a diagnosis of NAFLD was higher in the SCI group for any given BMI threshold from 19 kg/m2 to BMI 45 kg/m2.ConclusionsThe probability of developing NAFLD is greater in individuals with SCI than without SCI, at every BMI level 19 kg/m2 to 45 kg/m2. Individuals with SCI may warrant a higher level of suspicion and closer screening for NAFLD. The association of SCI and BMI is not linear.
New insight into natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites as pressure sensors: Experiment, theory, and application
Authors: Costa Cleidineia Cavalcante , Mapa Ludmila Marotta , Kelmer Ana Carolina , Ferreira Sukarno Olavo , Bianchi Rodrigo Fernando 
Published: October 2022

AbstractResearch in hybrid and flexible natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites has included advances in innovative and environmentally sustainable devices. However, in practice, controversies still exist regarding the relationship between electrical and materials performance targets in a system design context. This work aimed to investigate the alternating conductivity of a novel pressure sensor based on semiconducting polyaniline (PANI)‐coated vegetable fiber (VF, Euterpe oleracea Mart., Acai) in silicone polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) rubber. We used alternating electrical conductivity measurements, σ*(ω) ∝ ωs (frequency range—ω from 1 Hz to 10 MHz; s ~ 0.6), to adjust the optimal operating frequency region to enhance the pressure sensing performance of the PDMS‐PANI‐VF composites. A generalized effective‐medium approach to the pressure‐induced conductivity in terms of loading pressure, percolation regime, and the interpolation between Bruggeman's symmetric and asymmetric media theories was obtained. We have found a solution for inducing percolation in composites with a low concentration of fiber inclusions by uniaxial pressure (P), characterized by the expression σ ∝ (P−P0)t (0 ≤ t ≤ 4.0, 0 ≤ P0 ≤ 250 kPa). The sensor demonstrates maximum sensitivity of 1.5 Pa−1 in the operating electrical frequency from 1 to 100 Hz, and a wide linearity range from 0 to 250 kPa. The result provides new insight into the AC universality, s, and t behaviors of natural fiber‐reinforced polymer composites to enhance pressure sensitivity of a new concept and technology for resource‐efficiency optimization of sustainable environmental devices.
Horizontal meandering in direct numerical simulations of the stable boundary layer
Authors: Stefanello Michel , Frantz Ricardo A. S. , Acevedo Otávio , Degrazia Gervasio , Silvestrini Jorge H. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractLarge‐scale nonturbulent motions are investigated using high‐resolution direct numerical simulations of the turbulent Ekman layer at a moderate Reynolds number. In particular, the role of stable stratification effects in the generation and amplification of large‐scale oscillations in the wind‐speed components and buoyancy is analysed. Eulerian autocorrelation functions (EAFs) and spectral analysis help to describe and characterize such modes as meandering‐like structures. Focus is given to the strong stability cases, where vertical turbulent motions are damped and large‐scale modes drive near‐wall patterns of flow laminarization. Horizontal meandering arises in the near‐wall region when the ratio of vertical wind‐speed variance to horizontal wind‐speed variance decreases to small orders of magnitude. In the case of strong stratification, the characteristic features of meandering motion were identified as negative lobes in the EAF, with corresponding low‐frequency peaks in the horizontal wind speed and buoyancy spectra. The Ekman configuration used reproduced the development of meandering‐like structures satisfactorily in strong stable conditions, as indicated by field observations of the stable boundary layer and its dependence on the level of stratification. At strong stability, the Rotta model constant, which represents the relationship between the dissipation and return to isotropy terms in the velocity variance budget, is shown to vary with stability.
Soil nutrient release and microbial changes after burning of masticated fuels
Authors: Busse Matt , Shestak Carol J. , Hubbert Ken R. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractSoil temperature extremes are not uncommon when woody fuels are ignited in prescribed burns or wildfires. Whether this leads to substantial loss of soil organic matter or microbial life is unclear. We created a soil heat gradient by burning four levels of masticated woody fuels (0, 34, 101, and 169 Mg ha−1) to determine if heat thresholds produce abrupt changes in soil C, N, microbial biomass, or fungal hyphae. Twenty‐four burns were conducted with masticated fuels overlaying a clay loam soil equilibrated at either 4 or 25% volumetric soil water content. Maximum temperatures ranged from 40 to 450 °C depending on fuel load and soil moisture content, with heat duration (>60 °C) as great as 22 h. Moist soil quenched temperatures two‐ to threefold compared with dry soil at comparable fuel loads. A slight, gradual decline in total C and N was found with increasing temperature and heat duration, reaching a maximum loss of 14–18% of the total at the highest heat load. Available NH4 increased linearly starting at 150–175 °C and reached a maximum 15‐fold increase relative to unburned soil by 450 °C. Nitrification (30 d post‐fire) was low regardless of treatment and was essentially eliminated at the highest temperatures. Microbial biomass declined curvilinearly with increased heating, approaching 65% loss compared with unburned soil, and was most rapid in moist soil once temperatures exceeded 60–70 °C. Ultimately, we found no evidence of abrupt heat thresholds for these common soil properties. Instead, property changes followed a slightly declining trajectory (soil C, N, NO3, fungal hyphae) or a steady incremental increase (NH4) or decrease (microbial biomass).
Excessive fluoride impairs autophagy flux in ameloblasts which is prevented by the autophagy activator rapamycin
Authors: Yao Shuran , Weng Qingqing , Zhu Yiying , Liu Jialiang , Luo Yinyue , Da Dongxin , Zhang Ying 
Published: October 2022

AbstractExcessive fluoride intake can cause dental fluorosis during teeth development and growth. However, the mechanisms underlying fluoride‐induced enamel damage are still not fully elucidated. Previously, we observed fluoride‐induced autophagy in ameloblasts, but the effects of fluoride on autophagy flux in ameloblasts remain unclear. Hence, this study aimed to clarify the effects of fluoride and rapamycin, an autophagy activator, on autophagy flux in ameloblasts. This in vitro study used the murine ameloblast‐derived cell line LS8. Cells were treated with different concentrations of sodium fluoride (NaF) to evaluate NaF‐induced cytotoxicity. Using transmission electron microscopy, we observed an increase in the number of autophagosomes with increasing fluoride concentrations. Western blot analyses showed increases in microtubule‐associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) and SQSTM1 (p62) expression after NaF treatment and an increase in LC3II expression after bafilomycin A1 administration. Together with changes in RFP‐GFP‐LC3 lentivirus expression, this demonstrated that fluoride impaired autophagy flux. Furthermore, we evaluated whether rapamycin can alleviate fluoride‐induced cytotoxicity by restoring autophagy flux. Compared to the NaF‐treated group, LS8 cells cotreated with NaF and rapamycin grew considerably better and had significantly decreased p62 expression. Taken together, these data suggest that fluoride‐induced impaired autophagosome degradation may damage ameloblasts. This provides experimental in vitro evidence and an explanation for the observed NaF‐induced toxicity of ameloblasts. Rapamycin probably alleviates this impairment by decreasing the expression of p62, thereby preventing autophagy defects.
An unusual complication of ear punching in a laboratory mouse
Authors: Stanhope Jessica , Weinstein Philip 
Published: October 2022

AbstractEar punching and notching are common methods of identification of laboratory rodents. Concerns have been raised regarding pain and discomfort, infection, thermoregulation and tearing. However, the evidence regarding these potential adverse events is currently limited. In this case report, we describe an unusual complication of ear punching in a laboratory mouse. The mouse had its left ear punched with a single hole at 3 weeks of age. At 11 weeks of age, the mouse caught its left foreleg through its left ear punch up to the level of the shoulder. The mouse's leg was released and the pinna cut to form a notch rather than a hole. To avoid this situation, we suggest that an ear notch be considered rather than an ear punch. This case also highlights the value of daily checks to ensure that the risk of any adverse effects from such unpredictable events is minimised.
Changes in otolaryngology application requirements and match outcomes: Are we doing any better?
Authors: De Ravin Emma , Frost Ariel S. , Godse Neal R. , Shaffer Amber D. , Jabbour Noel , Schaitkin Barry M. , Newman Jason , Mady Leila J. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractObjectivesOtolaryngology‐specific requirements were piloted to minimize applicant and program burdens. We investigated the impact of introducing and then removing these requirements on Match outcomes.Methods2014–2021 National Resident Matching Program® data were examined. The primary outcome was the impact of Otolaryngology Resident Talent Assessment (ORTA; prematch 2017, postmatch 2019) and Program‐Specific Paragraph (PSP; implemented 2016, optional 2018) on applicant numbers and match rates. Secondary survey analysis assessed candidate perceptions of PSP/ORTA.ResultsApplicant numbers declined significantly during PSP/ORTA (18.9%; p = 0.001). With the optional PSP and postmatch ORTA, applicant numbers increased significantly (39.0%; p = 0.002). Examined individually, mandatory PSP was associated with a significant decline in applicants (p = 0.007), whereas postmatch ORTA was associated with significant increases in applicants (p = 0.010). ORTA and PSP negatively impacted the decision to apply to otolaryngology in 59.8% and 51.3% of applicants, respectively. Conversely, match rate success improved significantly from 74.8% to 91.2% during PSP/ORTA (p = 0.014), followed by a significant decline to 73.1% after PSP was made optional and ORTA moved to postmatch (p = 0.002).ConclusionsORTA and PSP correlated with decreased applicant numbers and increased match rate success. As programs seek ways to remove barriers to applying to otolaryngology, the potential consequences of an increasing pool of unmatched candidates must also be considered.
Conservation psychology: The future of conservation built upon a legacy
Authors: Cranston Kayla A. , Khalil Kathayoon 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe role that the social sciences play in conservation has been strengthened and codified over the past 20 years by many important contributions. This includes the influences of Dr. Carol D. Saunders who coined the term “Conservation Psychology” in a 2003 special issue of Human Ecology to identify a more efficient way for those with psychological expertize to work together towards a common mission. In this introduction to Zoo Biology's special issue on Conservation Psychology, we discuss the articles that make up this collection and propose further avenues for research and consideration within the field.
Situationally and Relationally Guided Ethical Conduct for Researchers: A Community-Based Research Project to Design and Develop an ICT Intervention
Authors: Roos Vera , Segalo Puleng , Ntombela Ngenisiwe 
Published: October 2022

AbstractGrowing discomfort with uncritical applications of generic universal ethics to community-based research, prompted us to (1) problematize a decontextualized application of ethics; (2) apply two heuristic constructs—situatedness and relationality—to a community-based project; and (3) propose revised guidelines for researchers in this field. The we-DELIVER project illustrates our processes for obtaining data from older (60+) South Africans to inform the development of a technology-based ecosystem, Yabelana, which gives them access to service information. In three phases (planning, implementation, and dissemination), we present the situatedness of researchers (including student fieldworkers) and communities. Drawing on relationality, we first expanded older participants’ capacity to engage by offering choices and by involving student fieldworkers who shared the same background as the participants to facilitate the use of the technology; and, second, we facilitated optimal interactions by being clear about the nature of the data being collected and by applying social engagement strategies to relate and interact optimally. An optimal interpersonal context preceded technology introduction. The chapter concludes with a plea for reconsideration of current universalized and decontextualized ethical protocols that too often perpetuate situational and relational ignorance. We propose, instead, ethical guidelines for community-based research that engages relationally with participants and best suits their contexts.
Older South Africans’ Cell Phone Use in Diverse Settings: A Baseline Assessment
Authors: Roos Vera , Hoffman Jaco , Erasmus Mianda , Bothma Elizabeth , van der Vaart Leoni 
Published: October 2022

AbstractInterventions through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) (eInterventions), particularly cell phones, are increasingly regarded as feasible alternatives to address older individuals’ access to social and health care and services. Limited documented evidence of older South Africans’ cell phone use inhibits the full relevant operationalizing of eInterventions. This chapter sets out to present baseline evidence of a cohort of older persons’ cell phone use in South Africa. Two questionnaires, iGNiTe and we-DELIVER, were developed to obtain baseline data of older persons’ cell phone use over a period of six years. Reliability and validity of scales measuring latent factors were investigated using criterion sampling to select older South Africans (n = 430) from four communities (Lokaleng, Ikageng, Potchefstroom, and Sharpeville) in two provinces—North West and Gauteng—which represented varying levels of living standards, educational attainment, and household size. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS 26, the jamovi project, and Mplus 8.6. The study population reported high access to and ownership of cell phones, with connectivity obtained primarily on a pay-as-you-go basis. Although these individuals felt that they were competent to use their phones, they preferred older generation (pushbutton) devices. They mainly used the basic features to maintain contact with older and younger people. Moreover, their competence in using cell phones, although limited, was facilitated through the assistance of younger people, highlighting the importance of intergenerational relations. The baseline findings informed principles and suggestions for planning and implementing eInterventions.
Intergenerational Experiences around Older Persons’ Cell Phone Use in Formal Public Domains
Authors: Roos Vera , Hoffman Jaco , Oduaran Choja 
Published: October 2022

AbstractFormal intergenerational programming is a neglected aspect of social development in sub-Saharan Africa. This chapter describes interactional experiences between older and younger people around older persons’ cell phone use, situated within formal intergenerational activities in public domains. Qualitative data from older persons (responses to an open-ended question, 14 semi-structured interviews, and 22 focus groups), and from student fieldworkers (younger people unrelated to them) (135 written reflections and two focus groups (n = 25)), were analysed thematically. We found that, before the intergenerational activity, ambivalent perceptions and accompanying tensions were typical, indicating prejudice and intergroup differences on both sides. Participation in formal activities, however, brought mutually rewarding experiences, with expressions and satisfaction of needs (affirmation) and social goals (learning about cell phones). Intergenerational interactions are embedded in broader socio-economic and digital environments and informed by sociocultural norms. Although those in the private domain were not studied specifically, they emerged spontaneously and revealed ambivalence, tension and ineffective relational dynamics as well as supportive and optimal relations. Our intergenerational findings demonstrated that promoting older individuals’ optimal use of technology would require some form of formal intergenerational programming facilitated through effective interactions between older and younger people, which would also bring satisfying experiences to both groups.
Yabelana: Designing and Introducing an Age-Inclusive and Context-Specific Information and Communication (ICT) Ecosystem
Authors: Roos Vera , van Greunen Darelle 
Published: October 2022

AbstractRapid developments in technological applications present as yet underexplored opportunities to assist with the impact of population ageing and limited resources. We adopted a sociotechnical paradigm—interlinking the social and technological—to inform the design and introduction, in four phases, of Yabelana (‘sharing of information’), an age-inclusive and context-specific ICT ecosystem. First, drawing on data from the we-DELIVER research project, we defined the situatedness of a cohort of older participants, their needs and preferences in relation to cell phone technology and social systems (intergenerational relations) facilitating their ICT use. Second, the three-part development of the ICT ecosystem was approached pragmatically. Third, to introduce the Yabelana app and USSD code we involved student fieldworkers familiar with the language and culture of the participants. Fourth, the process of collecting, analysing and reporting the fieldworkers’ reflections and older individuals’ experiences informed recommendations for further improvements of Yabelana and of technology artefacts. We conclude that a user-centred and bottom-up approach is not a quick fix for promoting age-inclusiveness in technology. Rather, ICT use is the outcome of a complex combination of older users’ dynamic involvement with technology, their diverse needs and preferences, facilitating social systems (e.g. intergenerational), and broader sociocultural contexts.
Chapter 14: Profile Analysis and Growth Curves
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans 
Published: October 2022

AbstractProfile analysis is utilized to determine whether two or more groups have a similar profile. Three types of profiles are considered: the coincident, parallel and level profiles. Test statistics are derived for each of the three types for the case of two populations. Extensions of the results to several populations are also considered. Growth curves are discussed as well in this chapter. They are used to identify patterns of growth over time. The likelihood ratio statistic for assessing polynomial growth is derived, and its asymptotic distribution is provided.
Chapter 2: The Univariate Gaussian and Related Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThis chapter serves as a review of the basic ideas about the univariate Gaussian, or normal, distribution as well as related distributions. Both the real and complex cases are treated. Among other topics, parameter estimation as well as the distribution of quadratic and Hermitian forms are discussed.
Chapter 3: The Multivariate Gaussian and Related Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThis chapter presents various results pertaining to the real and complex multivariate normal distributions. Moment generating functions, marginal and conditional distributions, as well as parameter estimates, are derived. Additionally, criteria for the independence of quadratic forms are provided. Elliptically contoured distributions are also considered.
Chapter 5: Matrix-Variate Gamma and Beta Distributions
Authors: Mathai Arak , Provost Serge , Haubold Hans 
Published: October 2022

AbstractWe first define the real matrix-variate gamma function, the gamma integral and the gamma density, wherefrom their counterparts in the complex domain are developed. An important particular case of the real matrix-variate gamma density known as the Wishart density is widely utilized in multivariate statistical analysis. Additionally, real and complex matrix-variate type-1 and type-2 beta density functions are defined. Various results pertaining to each of these distributions are then provided. More general structures are considered as well.