Search Results (1,103)

Background: Gestures or manual signing are valid options for augmentative and alternative communication. However, the data in the literature are limited to a few neurodevelopmental disorders, and less is known about its application in the community setting. Objectives: This case report explores the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of tact training with augmentative gestural support intervention for a child affected by a language disorder with challenging behaviors in a community setting. Methods: Baseline assessments were conducted using the Verbal Behavior Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) and Griffiths Mental Developmental Scale-III (GMDS-III). The patient received six months of standard treatment, consisting of neuropsychomotor and speech therapy each twice a week, with improved cooperation in proposed activities, but no improvement in language. Afterward, a total of 24 sessions of tact training with augmentative gestural support interventions were performed. Data were collected by two independent observers and analyzed to measure language and behavioral outcomes. Results: VB-MAPP scores increased form minimal communication and social interaction at T0 (baseline) to improved compliance but unchanged language skills at T1 (after standard therapy). After tack training with augmentative gestural support (T2), VB-MAPP scores showed significant improvements, with notable increases in verbal operants, independence in communication, and intersubjectivity skills. GMDS-III scores at T2 also demonstrated growth in social, communicative, and cognitive skills. Additionally, challenging behaviors were reduced by more than 70% and nearly resolved by the end of the intervention. Conclusions: Personalized approaches appear to be essential for interventions tailored to developmental age. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these approaches for other neurodevelopmental disorders, identify patient characteristics that may be predictors of outcomes to tailor the intervention, and explore the generalization of the results obtained with these strategies. Full article

This paper studies the effectiveness of the stress-relief groove on the floor of deep coal roadway and determines the influence of the stress-relief groove parameters on the surrounding rock through qualitative analysis. Based on the displacement conflict problem, evaluation indicators were established, and the optimal solution set was obtained. The innovations of this research include: 1. For geotechnical numerical simulations, novel stress monitoring and plastic zone monitoring techniques have been introduced to accurately reflect the condition of the surrounding rock; 2. The effects of floor relief grooves in deep roadway on surrounding rock have been analyzed, and the advantages and utilities of central and corner relief grooves have been determined; 3. The usability of small datasets has been enhanced by applying SEGA to optimize machine learning models with data augmentation techniques; 4. Multi-objective optimization algorithms have been applied to geotechnical engineering, providing valuable references for decision making. The results demonstrate that multi-objective optimization can significantly enhance the effectiveness of surrounding rock control, resolve conflicts, and achieve more reasonable construction plans. This research provides new theoretical foundations and practical guidance for deep mine roadway-surrounding rock control. Full article

AlGaN is attractive for fabricating deep ultraviolet (DUV) optoelectronic and electronic devices of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), photodetectors, high-electron-mobility field-effect transistors (HEMTs), etc. We investigated the quality and optical properties of Al_xGa_1−xN films with high Al fractions (60–87%) grown on sapphire substrates, including AlN nucleation and buffer layers, by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). They were initially investigated by high-resolution X-ray diffraction (HR-XRD) and Raman scattering (RS). A set of formulas was deduced to precisely determine x(Al) from HR-XRD data. Screw dislocation densities in AlGaN and AlN layers were deduced. DUV (266 nm) excitation RS clearly exhibits AlGaN Raman features far superior to visible RS. The simulation on the AlGaN longitudinal optical (LO) phonon modes determined the carrier concentrations in the AlGaN layers. The spatial correlation model (SCM) analyses on E₂(high) modes examined the AlGaN and AlN layer properties. These high-x(Al) Al_xGa_1−xN films possess large energy gaps E_g in the range of 5.0–5.6 eV and are excited by a DUV 213 nm (5.8 eV) laser for room temperature (RT) photoluminescence (PL) and temperature-dependent photoluminescence (TDPL) studies. The obtained RTPL bands were deconvoluted with two Gaussian bands, indicating cross-bandgap emission, phonon replicas, and variation with x(Al). TDPL spectra at 20–300 K of Al_0.87Ga_0.13N exhibit the T-dependences of the band-edge luminescence near 5.6 eV and the phonon replicas. According to the Arrhenius fitting diagram of the TDPL spectra, the activation energy (19.6 meV) associated with the luminescence process is acquired. In addition, the combined PL and time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL) spectroscopic system with DUV 213 nm pulse excitation was applied to measure a typical AlGaN multiple-quantum well (MQW). The RT TRPL decay spectra were obtained at four wavelengths and fitted by two exponentials with fast and slow decay times of ~0.2 ns and 1–2 ns, respectively. Comprehensive studies on these Al-rich AlGaN epi-films and a typical AlGaN MQW are achieved with unique and significant results, which are useful to researchers in the field. Full article

Switched reluctance motors (SRMs) are widely used in industrial applications due to their advantages. Multi-motor synchronous control systems are crucial in modern industry, as their control strategies significantly impact synchronization performance. Traditional deviation coupling control structures face limitations during the startup phase, leading to excessive tracking errors and exacerbated by uneven load distribution, resulting in desynchronized motor acceleration and increased speed synchronization errors. This study proposes a modified deviation coupling control method based on an adaptive weighted particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to enhance multi-motor synchronization performance. Traditional deviation coupling control applies equal reference torque inputs to each motor’s current loop, failing to address uneven load distribution and causing inconsistent accelerations. To resolve this, a gain equation based on speed deviation is introduced, incorporating self-tracking error and gain coefficients for dynamic synchronization error compensation. The gain coefficients are optimized using the adaptive weighted PSO algorithm to improve system adaptability. A simulation model of a synchronization control system for three SRMs was developed in the Matlab/Simulink R2023b environment. This model compares the synchronization performance of traditional deviation coupling, Fuzzy-PID improved structure, and adaptive PSO improved structure during motor startup, sudden speed increases, and load disturbances. The validated deviation coupling control structure achieved the initial set speed in approximately 0.236 s, demonstrating faster convergence and a 6.35% reduction in settling time. In both the motor startup and sudden speed increase phases, the two optimized methods outperformed the traditional structure in dynamic performance and synchronization accuracy, with the adaptive PSO structure improving synchronization accuracy by 54% and 37.17% over the Fuzzy-PID structure, respectively. Therefore, the PSO-optimized control system demonstrates faster convergence, improved stability, and enhanced synchronization performance. Full article

Transarterial microembolization (TAME) is an innovative approach to treating chronic musculoskeletal pain. During the procedure, intraprocedural vasospasm, presenting juxta-catheter stenosis, and poor distal artery perfusion and flow through the anastomosis commonly pose challenges. Difficulty of the catheter reaching the target vessel and restricted drug delivery are possible consequences. To address these issues, transcatheter nitroglycerin (NTG) infusion at the extremity’s small-sized artery has been introduced. We investigated patients who underwent the TAME procedure wherein NTG was employed and sourced from two institutional settings. Transcatheter NTG infusion was administered in seven instances of chronic musculoskeletal pain manifesting with intraprocedural vasospasm during TAME procedures. Patient profiles, preprocedural imaging, fluoroscopic findings, adverse events, and Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores were evaluated. As a result, all seven cases experiencing intraprocedural vasospasm exhibited rapid responses to transcatheter NTG infusion. Angiography conducted pre- and post-infusion demonstrated increased vessel size, resolved proximal catheter stenosis, and improved distal perfusion. One case presented an adverse effect of self-limited transient hypotension. The NRS scores decreased following the procedure. Transcatheter NTG infusion at the extremity’s small-sized muscular artery can be an effective technique for resolving intraprocedural vasospasm in TAME procedures, irrespective of the target diseases and approach vessels. Full article

Background: Frailty is characterized by the decreased ability in older adults to handle daily or acute stressors due to age-related declines in physiological reserve and organ system performance. This condition results from the interaction of multiple physiological pathways and changes in biomarkers. Exercise programs are currently recommended to promote “healthy aging” in frail older adults. Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise program interventions in improving outcomes related to frailty, physical function, cognitive performance, and biomarkers in frail older adults. Methods: This study was designed according to the PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus for studies published between 2014 and 2024. Two independent reviewers extracted data, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Randomized controlled trials involving pre-frail or frail older adults aged 60 and above in all settings were included. The focus was on the impact of exercise programs, especially multicomponent interventions, on frailty outcomes and biomarkers. Results: Nine studies involving a total of 2083 participants met the inclusion criteria. The age range of participants was 65.35 ± 5.15 to 86.7 ± 4.00 years, with 64.7% being female. The results demonstrated that multicomponent exercise programs significantly improved frailty status, enhanced physical and cognitive function, and improved emotional well-being. Additionally, these programs led to significant reductions in inflammatory biomarkers, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, which are associated with frailty. Conclusion: This review highlights the beneficial effects of multicomponent exercise programs on pre-frail and frail older adults, providing evidence that these interventions improve physical and cognitive functions and emotional well-being, and reduce inflammation. These findings offer valuable insights into developing targeted interventions to manage frailty in clinical practice. Full article

This work studies an integro-fractional differential equation (I-FrDE) with a generalized symmetric singular kernel. The scientific approach in this study was to transform the integro-differential equation (I-DE) into a mixed integral equation (MIE) with an Able kernel in fractional time and a generalized symmetric singular kernel in position. Additionally, the authors first set conditions on the singular kernels, whether related to time or position, and then transform the integral equation into an integral operator. Secondly, the solution is unique, which is proven by means of fixed-point theorems. In combination with the solution rules, the convergence of the solution is studied, and the error equation resulting from the solution is a stable error-integral influencer equation. Next, to solve this MIE, the authors apply a special technique to separate the variables and produce an integral equation in position with coefficients, in the form of an integral operator in time. As the most effective technique for resolving singular integral equations, the Toeplitz matrix method (TMM) is utilized to convert the integral equation into an algebraic system for the purpose of solving the position problem. The existence of a solution to the linear algebraic system in Banach space is then demonstrated. Lastly, certain applications where the functions of the generalized symmetric kernel are cubic or exponential and it assumes the logarithmic, Cauchy, or Carleman form are discussed. In each case, Maple 18 is also used to compute the error estimate. Full article

Conventional methods for constructing bridge I-beam joints face several challenges, including heavy precast slabs, complicated transportation and lifting procedures, strict accuracy requirements, lengthy construction timelines, and increased safety risks. The use of ultra-thin, high-performance reactive powder concrete (RPC) prefabricated slabs can effectively resolve these issues. However, research in this area is limited, leaving our understanding of the strength and feasibility of ultra-thin RPC slabs for I-beam joints incomplete. Therefore, this study conducts a thorough examination of the strength and safety aspects of these slabs to assess their practical suitability. First, 11 numerical models are generated to evaluate the bearing capacity of ultra-thin RPC slabs, determining key factors such as cracking load, ultimate load, and safety factor according to relevant codes and standards. This establishes a theoretical foundation for practical engineering applications. Next, several sets of ultra-thin RPC slabs that meet material performance criteria are prefabricated to study the mechanical properties under equivalent concentrated load. Finally, two types of in situ temporary construction loads are encountered in the safety calculations of the RPC slabs. This study aims to provide a robust theoretical framework and technical support for the application and advancement of ultra-thin RPC prefabricated slabs in bridge I-beam joints. Full article

The concept of emergence, or synergy in its simplest form, is widely used but lacks a rigorous definition. Our work connects information and set theory to uncover the mathematical nature of synergy as the failure of distributivity. For the trivial case of discrete random variables, we explore whether and how it is possible to get more information out of lesser parts. The approach is inspired by the role of set theory as the fundamental description of part–whole relations. If taken unaltered, synergistic behavior is forbidden by the set-theoretic axioms. However, random variables are not a perfect analogy of sets: we formalize the distinction, highlighting a single broken axiom—union/intersection distributivity. Nevertheless, it remains possible to describe information using Venn-type diagrams. The proposed multivariate theory resolves the persistent self-contradiction of partial information decomposition and reinstates it as a primary route toward a rigorous definition of emergence. Our results suggest that non-distributive variants of set theory may be used to describe emergent physical systems. Full article

As a method of lightweight design, multi-material design aims to make targeted use of materials in order to reduce CO₂ emissions. In this context, it can be described as one of the product development methods used to meet the challenges of climate change. However, since the design of structures in multi-material design is complex, topology optimization can be used to support the product developer. In this article, a multi-material topology optimization method is developed that combines the Velocity Field Level Set method with the Reconciled Level Set method. Furthermore, the current design is explicitly resolved in each iteration by means of multi-material remeshing. The edge collapse phase in the remeshing process is achieved by applying the producer consumer pattern. The developed method is then validated using known examples from the state of research, and the influence of the parameters of the method on the result is analyzed by means of studies. Full article

Camouflage is a natural or artificial process that prevents an object from being detected, while camouflage breaking is a countering process for the identification of the concealed object. We report that a perfectly camouflaged object can be retrieved from the background and detected with stereo-vision-assisted three-dimensional (3D) imaging. The analysis is based on a binocular neuron energy model applied to general 3D settings. We show that a perfectly concealed object with background interference can be retrieved with vision stereoacuity to resolve the hidden structures. The theoretical analysis is further tested and demonstrated with distant natural images taken by a drone camera, processed with a computer and displayed using autostereoscopy. The recovered imaging is presented with the removal of background interference to demonstrate the general applicability for camouflage breaking with stereo imaging and sensing. Full article

Satellites adopt a single-task observation mode in traditional patterns. Although this mode boasts high imaging accuracy, it is accompanied by a limited number of observed tasks and a low utilization rate of satellite resources. This limitation becomes particularly pronounced when dealing with extensive and densely populated observation task sets because the inherent mobility of satellites often leads to conflicts among numerous tasks. To address this issue, this paper introduces a novel multi-task merging mechanism aimed at enhancing the observation rate of satellites by resolving task conflicts. Initially, this paper presents a task merging method based on the proposed multitask merging mechanism, referred to as the constrained graph (CG) task merging approach. This method can merge tasks while adhering to the minimal requirements specified by users. Subsequently, a multi-satellite merging scheduling model is established based on the combined task set. Considering the satellite combined-task scheduling problem (SCTSP), an enhanced fireworks algorithm (EFWA) is proposed that incorporates the CG task synthesis mechanism. This algorithm incorporates local search strategies and a population disturbance mechanism to enhance both the solution quality and convergence speed. Finally, the efficacy of the CG algorithm was validated through a multitude of simulation experiments. Moreover, the effectiveness of the EFWA is confirmed via extensive comparisons with other algorithms, including the basic ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm, enhanced ant colony optimization (EACO) algorithm, fireworks algorithm (FWA), and EFWA. When the number of tasks in the observation area are dense, such as in the case where the number of tasks is 700, the CG + EFWA (CG is adopted in the task merging stage and EFWA is adopted in the satellite combined-task scheduling stage) method improves observation benefits by 70.35% (compared to CG + EACO, CG is adopted in the task merging stage and EACO is adopted in the satellite combined-task scheduling stage), 78.93% (compared to MS + EFWA, MS is adopted in the task merging stage and EFWA is adopted in the satellite combined-task scheduling stage), and 39.03% (compared to MS + EACO, MS is adopted in the task merging stage and EACO is adopted in the satellite combined-task scheduling stage). Full article

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are used in a wide range of consumer products and in biomedical applications, resulting in an increased production of these materials with potential for exposure, thus causing human health concerns. Although there are many reports on the size-related toxicity of ZnO NPs, the toxicity of different nanoforms of this chemical, toxicity mechanisms, and potency determinants need clarification to support health risk characterization. A set of well-characterized ZnO nanoforms (e.g., uncoated ca. 30, 45, and 53 nm; coated with silicon oil, stearic acid, and (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane) were screened for in vitro cytotoxicity in two cell types, human lung epithelial cells (A549), and mouse monocyte/macrophage (J774) cells. ZnO (bulk) and ZnCl₂ served as reference particles. Cytotoxicity was examined 24 h post-exposure by measuring CTB (viability), ATP (energy metabolism), and %LDH released (membrane integrity). Cellular oxidative stress (GSH-GSSG) and secreted proteins (targeted multiplex assay) were analyzed. Zinc oxide nanoform type-, dose-, and cell type-specific cytotoxic responses were seen, along with cellular oxidative stress. Cell-secreted protein profiles suggested ZnO NP exposure-related perturbations in signaling pathways relevant to inflammation/cell injury and corresponding biological processes, namely reactive oxygen species generation and apoptosis/necrosis, for some nanoforms, consistent with cellular oxidative stress and ATP status. The size, surface area, agglomeration state and metal contents of these ZnO nanoforms appeared to be physicochemical determinants of particle potencies. These findings warrant further research on high-content “OMICs” to validate and resolve toxicity pathways related to exposure to nanoforms to advance health risk-assessment efforts and to inform on safer materials. Full article

Background: The hub-and-spoke model (HSM) offers a framework for efficient healthcare service delivery. This scoping review seeks to explore the implementation and effectiveness of the HSM in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) reporting guideline was followed. A systematic search was conducted in four electronic databases (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar) from inception until January 2024. Studies where the HSM was used for delivering any AMS activity, intervention, or action, were included. No study-specific filters were applied and all populations, study designs, and health settings were included. Data screening and selection were achieved using Rayyan. Three authors independently screened studies, with conflicts resolved by a fourth author. Data were narratively synthesised. Standard appraisal tools were impractical; however, critical evaluation of data collection and outcome reporting was ensured. Results: Out of 1438 articles, three were included in the scoping review. The primary interventions utilising the HSM in AMS involved reducing antibiotic misuse, training healthcare professionals, case-based learning, establishing AMS programmes, developing antibiograms, and formulating policies or guidelines pertinent to AMS. The studies demonstrated significant clinical improvements in AMS. Clinical outcomes from the studies include a significant reduction in antimicrobial usage and improved antibiotic management, with a notable decrease in days on antimicrobial therapy and increased antibiotic de-escalation. Key facilitators for AMS programme success were tailored education, collaborative learning, strong leadership, strategic practices, and data-driven decisions. Key barriers were leadership challenges, change resistance, knowledge gaps, inadequate data systems, resource limitations, and technological constraints. Conclusions: The review identified a literature gap in HSM use in AMS programmes. Further studies are needed to assess HSM’s effectiveness, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness in AMS contexts. Full article

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the most commonly diagnosed dermatological condition in travel medicine after diarrhoeal diseases and febrile status. The disease is transmitted by Phlebotomus and Lutzomyia sandflies. It appears in various clinical forms, the most common of which is a painless ulcer with raised edges, usually present on exposed parts of the body on the side where the insect bite occurred. Annually, over a million new cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases are reported globally. We present two cases of affliction, the first occurring in Patient 1, who attempted treatment through the Kambo cleanse in South America, which is considered a toxic, even life-threatening, procedure. It involves the subcutaneous application of a substance dangerous to humans derived from the surface mucus of a frog. Patient 2 applied caustic ointments, a fruitarian diet, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a private setting. After initial therapeutic failures caused by the patients’ unconventional treatment ideas, the causal treatment effect was satisfactory, demonstrating the efficacy of these treatments in resolving the infection when applied appropriately. Despite the typical CL presentation in both patients, their self-treatment course was unusual. It is worth noting that alternative, sometimes harmful, self-treatment initiatives by patients may be surprising and ineffective. Promoting knowledge about tropical diseases among travellers and medical staff is crucial to improving treatment outcomes. Full article