Initial Exploration Research Articles

Exploration of initiation and stabilization properties of oblique detonation in a combustor with hydrogen fuel pre-injection

This study delves into the innovative aspects of hydrogen fuel injection and mixing within the duct of an oblique detonation engine (ODE) from both theoretical and numerical perspectives. By solving the multi-species reactive Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations alongside a hydrogen combustion model, the fluid dynamics and combustion processes in the combustor are thoroughly examined. The analysis shows that employing ramp-cantilever injectors for fuel delivery leads to fuel accumulation in the gas stream core, leaving a deficiency near the wall area. By supplementing ramp-cantilever injectors with wall injectors, fuel distribution adjacent to the wall is significantly enhanced, enabling the successful establishment of a detonation mode. However, the confined space and geometric constraints generate complex flow patterns, particularly due to boundary layer separation. The combustor operates in a stable configuration featuring an oblique shock-oblique detonation-separation shock (OSW-ODW-SSW) structure. Conversely, an oblique shock-oblique detonation-normal detonation-separation shock (OSW-ODW-NDW-SSW) arrangement is found to be unstable. Adjusting the position of the expansion corner on the upper wall forward stabilizes the unstable configuration, maintaining the ODW. Spatial flow inhomogeneities, especially equivalence ratio variations, are identified as crucial factors that can hinder ODW initiation and stability. These findings emphasize the pivotal role of optimizing fuel distribution, refining geometrical design, and ensuring flow uniformity in guaranteeing the efficiency and stability of oblique detonation engines. The outcomes provide valuable insights for future improvements in ODE design and operation.

Dynamic reinforcement learning reveals time-dependent shifts in strategy during reward learning.

Different brain systems have been hypothesized to subserve multiple "experts" that compete to generate behavior. In reinforcement learning, two general processes, one model-free (MF) and one model-based (MB), are often modeled as a mixture of agents (MoA) and hypothesized to capture differences between automaticity vs. deliberation. However, shifts in strategy cannot be captured by a static MoA. To investigate such dynamics, we present the mixture-of-agents hidden Markov model (MoA-HMM), which simultaneously learns inferred action values from a set of agents and the temporal dynamics of underlying "hidden" states that capture shifts in agent contributions over time. Applying this model to a multi-step, reward-guided task in rats reveals a progression of within-session strategies: a shift from initial MB exploration to MB exploitation, and finally to reduced engagement. The inferred states predict changes in both response time and OFC neural encoding during the task, suggesting that these states are capturing real shifts in dynamics.

Achieving net zero neighborhoods: A case study review of circular economy initiatives for South Wales

Adopting net zero neighborhoods (NZN) combined with circular economy are increasingly recognized as an essential strategy for construction companies, allowing their transition towards sustainability and contributing to climate change mitigation. Transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN is necessary to achieve energy self-sufficiency and net zero by 2050. The success of NZN hinges on government initiatives. However, existing studies appear to lack a comprehensive exploration of the transformation initiatives within NZN, spanning aspects like raw materials, construction practices, transportation, and waste management, particularly in terms of technological advancements. To address the gap, this research introduces a conceptual framework that integrates the multiple case studies design method with an urban transformative capacity model. This innovative framework is the first application of a multi-level urban transformative capacity model in transforming existing neighborhoods into NZN within a specific region. This research specifically utilizes South Wales in the UK as a case study. It identified four key initiatives in technology, construction, transportation, and waste management. These initiatives offer significant benefits, including fostering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly construction industry through enhanced traceability and efficiency, and simultaneously promoting social sustainability by improving community engagement, providing social benefits through sharing economy initiatives, and creating new green job opportunities.

The Employee Engagement and Job Performance Nexus in a Top Autodealership Company

This study explored the relationship between employee engagement and job performance within a leading Philippine auto dealership company. A quantitative approach was employed through a survey distributed to 351 employees across various locations. The findings revealed a youthful workforce with near-equal gender distribution and a high proportion holding college degrees. A slight majority reported being single, potentially indicating a preference for flexibility. Furthermore, the largest group had a tenure of 1-5 years, suggesting a sizeable cohort of newer employees. Employee engagement was perceived to be high indicating a generally motivated and enthusiastic workforce. A significant positive correlation was identified between engagement and job performance, suggesting that more engaged employees perceived themselves as performing at a higher level. Based on these results, the study proposes actionable recommendations to enhance engagement. These include targeted strategies for the younger demographic, skill development programs for all employees, exploration of flexible work arrangements and well-being initiatives, and fostering a culture of recognition and alignment with the company's mission. By implementing these strategies, the dealership can cultivate a more engaged workforce, leverage its diverse strengths, and achieve sustained high performance.

Case Study on Analysing the Early Disease Detection of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma in Korean Association for Clinical Oncology.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most pervasive sort of pancreatic malignant growth. Due to the lack of early symptoms and effective methods for early detection and screening, the majority of patients (80% to 85%) are diagnosed with advanced metastatic or locally advanced disease, resulting in a low 5-year survival rate of 12%. The case study represents a comprehensive investigation into the intricate landscape of pancreatic cancer diagnosis within the Korean population. Grounded in epidemiological bits of knowledge, the review plans to disentangle the particular examples, commonness, and segment attributes of PDAC in Korea. By scrutinizing current diagnostic modalities, including conventional imaging techniques, molecular markers, and emerging technologies, the research seeks to evaluate the strengths and limitations of existing approaches within the Korean clinical context. Central to the study is an exploration of the collaborative initiatives spearheaded by the Association of Clinical Oncology in Korea in the domain of PDAC early detection. Analysing research projects, clinical trials, and interdisciplinary collaborations, the case study sheds light on the association's pivotal role in driving innovation and progress in oncology. The goal is to offer a detailed analysis of how the association helps in furthering knowledge and enhancing results in the management of PDAC. The case study delves into the implications of early PDAC detection for patient outcomes, emphasizing the significance of timely interventions and tailored treatment strategies. By outlining the potential benefits and challenges associated with early diagnosis, the study aims to inform health care policies, shape clinical guidelines, and guide future research priorities. Through a holistic approach, the case study endeavours to offer important experiences into the multifaceted landscape of PDAC early detection within the Korean health care system, contributing to the broader discourse on effective oncological practices and patient care.

Unlocking sustainable development in East Asia Pacific and South Asia: An econometric exploration of ESG initiatives

Unlocking sustainable development in East Asia Pacific and South Asia: An econometric exploration of ESG initiatives

Choice of Metric Divergence in Genome Sequence Comparison.

The paper introduces a novel probability descriptor for genome sequence comparison, employing a generalized form of Jensen-Shannon divergence. This divergence metric stems from a one-parameter family, comprising fractions up to a maximum value of half. Utilizing this metric as a distance measure, a distance matrix is computed for the new probability descriptor, shaping Phylogenetic trees via the neighbor-joining method. Initial exploration involves setting the parameter at half for various species. Assessing the impact of parameter variation, trees drawn at different parameter values (half, one-fourth, one-eighth). However, measurement scales decrease with parameter value increments, with higher similarity accuracy corresponding to lower scale values. Ultimately, the highest accuracy aligns with the maximum parameter value of half. Comparative analyses against previous methods, evaluating via Symmetric Distance (SD) values and rationalized perception, consistently favor the present approach's results. Notably, outcomes at the maximum parameter value exhibit the most accuracy, validating the method's efficacy against earlier approaches.

An Agent-Based Model for Disease Epidemics in Greece

In this research, we present the first steps toward developing a data-driven agent-based model (ABM) specifically designed for simulating infectious disease dynamics in Greece. Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, this research holds significant importance as it can offer valuable insights into disease transmission patterns and assist in devising effective intervention strategies. To the best of our knowledge, no similar study has been conducted in Greece. We constructed a prototype ABM that utilizes publicly accessible data to accurately represent the complex interactions and dynamics of disease spread in the Greek population. By incorporating demographic information and behavioral patterns, our model captures the specific characteristics of Greece, enabling accurate and context-specific simulations. By using our proposed ABM, we aim to assist policymakers in making informed decisions regarding disease control and prevention. Through the use of simulations, policymakers have the opportunity to explore different scenarios and predict the possible results of various intervention measures. These may include strategies like testing approaches, contact tracing, vaccination campaigns, and social distancing measures. Through these simulations, policymakers can assess the effectiveness and feasibility of these interventions, leading to the development of well-informed strategies aimed at reducing the impact of infectious diseases on the Greek population. This study is an initial exploration toward understanding disease transmission patterns and a first step towards formulating effective intervention strategies for Greece.

An Investigation of the Perception of Neoclassical, Eclectic, Modernist, and Postmodern Architecture within Different Urban Landscapes: Athens vs. Paris

The public perception of buildings belonging to different architectural movements is a largely unexplored area from a quantitative scientific perspective. However, a better scientific understanding of perceptions of architectural movements is important for the formation of improved planning and design policies. In this work, we carry out an initial exploration of the public preferences of the architectural movements of Neoclassicism, Eclecticism, Modernism, and Postmodernism. To this aim, a total of 103 citizens from Athens (Greece) and Paris (France) were presented with the same questions regarding their opinions on buildings belonging to those movements. In the analysis and interpretation of the collected data, the different cultural, professional, and demographic characteristics of participants were then considered, as well as the role of the urban landscapes of Athens and Paris as the historical, societal, and aesthetic contexts that influence and shape perceptions. The results demonstrated a clear and uniform prevalence of Neoclassical architecture in terms of positive public perception in both cities. Similarly, in both cities, Eclecticism followed with a relatively more positive perception than Modern and Postmodern architectural styles, which were rated the lowest. However, a significant difference between the two cities was that when participants singled out their primary favorite style, Modernism enjoyed higher favorability in Athens than in Paris. These findings and their theoretical exploration provide inferences into the complexities of public perceptions of architectural styles, with potential implications for the integration of citizen preferences into future research on architectural/urban design and planning.

Elective Joint Replacement Among Medicaid Beneficiaries: Utilization and Postoperative Adverse Events by Racial and Ethnic Groups.

Hip and knee replacement have been marked by racial and ethnic disparities in both utilization and postoperative adverse events among Medicare beneficiaries, but limited knowledge exists regarding racial and ethnic differences in joint replacement care among Medicaid beneficiaries. To close this gap, this study used Medicaid claims in 2018 and described racial and ethnic differences in the utilization and postoperative adverse events of elective joint replacements among Medicaid beneficiaries. Among the 2,260,272 Medicaid beneficiaries, 5987 had an elective joint replacement in 2018. Asian (0.05%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03%-0.07%) and Hispanic beneficiaries (0.12%, 95% CI: 0.07%-0.18%) received joint replacements less frequently than American Indian and Alaska Native (0.41%, 95% CI: 0.27%-0.55%), Black (0.33%, 95% CI: 0.19%-0.48%), and White (0.37%, 95% CI: 0.25%-0.50%) beneficiaries. Black patients demonstrated the highest probability of 90-day emergency department visits (34.8%, 95% CI: 32.7%-37.0%) among all racial and ethnic groups and a higher probability of 90-day readmission (8.0%, 95% CI: 6.9%-9.0%) than Asian (3.4%, 95% CI: 0.7%-6.0%) and Hispanic patients (4.4%, 95% CI: 3.4%-5.3%). These findings indicate evident disparities in postoperative adverse events across racial and ethnic groups, with Black patients demonstrating the highest probability of 90-day emergency department visits. This study represents an initial exploration of the racial and ethnic differences in joint replacement care among Medicaid beneficiaries and lay the groundwork for further investigation into contributing factors of the observed disparities.

Hearing and Balance in Healthy Aging Project: Characterization of Hearing, Balance, and Other Associated Disorders in Three Population Groups Aged 55 and Over

Plain Language SummaryThis study investigates the substantial impact of hearing loss and balance disorders in older people in the context of active aging, with the aim of improving health, participation, and overall well-being. The “hearing and balance in healthy aging” project, a prospective, observational study, includes 710 participants over 55 years of age, classified into groups according to their hearing and balance status. Significant differences between groups reveal disparities in age, gender, education, and occupation. The group with detected and treated cases has the most adverse outcomes in hearing, balance, cognition, and quality of life. These findings underscore the importance of early detection and intervention and present a global view of the consequences of hearing loss and balance disorders on cognitive function, autonomy, and general health in the aging population. However, additional factors should be further explored and follow-up should be expanded as this project has the potential to further contribute to the promotion of healthy aging.

A prediction nomogram for perineural invasion in colorectal cancer patients: a retrospective study

BackgroundPerineural invasion (PNI), as the fifth recognized pathway for the spread and metastasis of colorectal cancer (CRC), has increasingly garnered widespread attention. The preoperative identification of whether colorectal cancer (CRC) patients exhibit PNI can assist clinical practitioners in enhancing preoperative decision-making, including determining the necessity of neoadjuvant therapy and the appropriateness of surgical resection. The primary objective of this study is to construct and validate a preoperative predictive model for assessing the risk of perineural invasion (PNI) in patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC).Materials and methodsA total of 335 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) at a single medical center were subject to random allocation, with 221 individuals assigned to a training dataset and 114 to a validation dataset, maintaining a ratio of 2:1. Comprehensive preoperative clinical and pathological data were meticulously gathered for analysis. Initial exploration involved conducting univariate logistic regression analysis, with subsequent inclusion of variables demonstrating a significance level of p < 0.05 into the multivariate logistic regression analysis, aiming to ascertain independent predictive factors, all while maintaining a p-value threshold of less than 0.05. From the culmination of these factors, a nomogram was meticulously devised. Rigorous evaluation of this nomogram's precision and reliability encompassed Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, calibration curve assessment, and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA). The robustness and accuracy were further fortified through application of the bootstrap method, which entailed 1000 independent dataset samplings to perform discrimination and calibration procedures.ResultsThe results of multivariate logistic regression analysis unveiled independent risk factors for perineural invasion (PNI) in patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC). These factors included tumor histological differentiation (grade) (OR = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.03–0.74, p = 0.02), primary tumor location (OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.21–5.12, p = 0.013), gross tumor type (OR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.22–0.81, p = 0.01), N staging in CT (OR = 3.44, 95% CI = 1.74–6.80, p < 0.001), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level (OR = 3.13, 95% CI = 1.60–6.13, p = 0.001), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (OR = 2.07, 95% CI = 1.08–3.96, p = 0.028).These findings formed the basis for constructing a predictive nomogram, which exhibited an impressive area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of 0.772 (95% CI, 0.712–0.833). The Hosmer–Lemeshow test confirmed the model's excellent fit (p = 0.47), and the calibration curve demonstrated consistent performance. Furthermore, decision curve analysis (DCA) underscored a substantial net benefit across the risk range of 13% to 85%, reaffirming the nomogram's reliability through rigorous internal validation.ConclusionWe have formulated a highly reliable nomogram that provides valuable assistance to clinical practitioners in preoperatively assessing the likelihood of perineural invasion (PNI) among colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. This tool holds significant potential in offering guidance for treatment strategy formulation.

Transfemoral Amputee Stumble Detection through Machine-Learning Classification: Initial Exploration with Three Subjects

Transfemoral Amputee Stumble Detection through Machine-Learning Classification: Initial Exploration with Three Subjects

Engineering heteropolyblue hole transfer layer for efficient photoelectrochemical water splitting of BiVO4 photoanodes

Constructing hole transport layer (HTL) has emerged as a forefront approach to enhance the efficiency of photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation. Here, we introduce the concept of the heteropolyblue HTL as a solution to address the orientation anisotropy issue associated with traditional solid-phase HTL. Integrated with cobalt-based polyoxometalate oxygen evolution cocatalyst and BiVO4 substrate, a BiVO4/HPMo: Co photoanode was constructed, achieving a separation efficiency of 96% and a photocurrent density of 5.7 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE. Combined with the calculation results, we determined that the Mo6⁺/Mo5⁺ electron pair in heteropolyblue acts as a bridge for hole transport. The robust redox capabilities and electron-rich characteristics of heteropolyblue confer durability to the HTL and enable the continuous transport of holes, collectively expediting reaction kinetics. This work represents the initial exploration of the systematic integration of heteropolyblue with photoanodes, unveiling the considerable potential of heteropolyblue in PEC systems.

Resolving Gender Ambiguity: An Initial Approach to Hermaphroditism in al-Andalus: The Case of the “Bearded Woman” of Tudela

ABSTRACT In the context of al-Andalus, intersexuality is a topic that has received limited exploration, despite its significance. Within this landscape, a narration discovered in al-Bakrī’s geographical treatise, which details a forced change of gender, prompts us to question the role of undetermined gender in al-Andalus. This offers a unique opportunity to delve into the legal distinctions between men and women, the perceptions of masculinity and femininity and, particularly, an initial exploration of how khuntha was perceived in a pre-modern Islamic society like al-Andalus, comparing also with other accounts coming from Eastern sources.

Unlocking stability and efficiency in benzyl isothiocyanate-loaded emulsions: Unveiling synergistic interactions of fish skin gelatin and pectin

In this research endeavor, a novel emulsion delivery system was devised to enhance the retention of the fat-soluble active substance known as benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC). Fish skin gelatin (FSG) and pectin (PEC) were chosen as complex emulsifiers and collectively referred to as FSG-PEC. The interaction between FSG and PEC was examined by turbidity, flourier transform infrared, fluorescence, ultraviolet, methylene blue, and molecular docking. Emulsification activity, emulsification stability, contact angle, appearance structure, average particle size, zeta potential, oil droplet distribution, and retention rate of the encapsulated BITC, were evaluated to determine the optimal concentration ratio of the FSG-PEC complex for effectively safeguarding BITC. The results showed that the turbidity of FSG and PEC was minimal at pH 7, indicating relative stability of the complex. The primary molecular forces between FSG and PEC were electrostatic and hydrogen bond interaction. The interfacial stability, emulsifying activity and stability of FSG-PEC complex at a 2:1 ratio surpassed those of other ratios. Consequently, this optimal ratio was utilized to prepare FSG-PEC emulsion delivery system containing BITC. The resulting emulsion, stored for 14 days at 4 °C, demonstrated compelling attributes with a particle size of 433.33 ± 1.12 nm, a potential of −32.87 ± 0.35 mV, and a BITC retention rate of 59.87 ± 0.65%. The combination of the indicators finally concluded that 2:1 was the optimal ratio to construct the FSG-PEC complex emulsion delivery system. This study constitutes an initial exploration of the interaction dynamics between FSG and PEC, providing a theoretical foundation for subsequent applications.

РЕГИОНАЛЬНЫЕ ИНИЦИАТИВЫ ПО ГОСУДАРСТВЕННОЙ ПОДДЕРЖКЕ МАЛОГО И СРЕДНЕГО ПРЕДПРИНИМАТЕЛЬСТВА В РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ

This work is dedicated to the exploration of regional initiatives for state support of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Russian Federation. SMEs play a crucial role in the country’s economic development, and the government actively promotes their growth through various programs and initiatives. Despite the existence of a complex set of financial, informational, and legal instruments at the national level, regions devise specific actions tailored to the unique needs of the labor market, resource base, and other factors. The objective of this work is to identify the characteristics of regional initiatives for state support of SMEs, taking into account both internal and external factors influencing their success. To achieve this goal, a combination of general scientific and specific methods is employed, including content analysis and comparative analysis. The research findings indicate that regional initiatives for state support can significantly contribute to the development of SMEs. However, the success of such initiatives depends on multiple factors, including effective management, accessibility of financial resources, and the level of entrepreneur involvement. Scope of application of the research results: activities of regional authorities, entrepreneurs, researchers in the field of entrepreneurship theory and practice, addressing issues related to the support of small and medium-sized businesses. The conclusions of this research underscore the importance of collaboration between government entities and entrepreneurs in creating effective mechanisms to support SMEs, reinforcing the position of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Russian Federation’s economy, and fostering its sustainable socio-economic development.

“Together Met, Together Bound”: Liturgy and Ecumenism

This presidential address for the 2023 Congress of Societas Liturgica provides an initial exploration of the Congress theme “Liturgy and Ecumenism.” After situating the theme in the context of the history of Societas Liturgica and its continuing commitment to ecumenical dialogue and liturgical practice, it explores recent challenges to the relationship between liturgy and ecumenism. The address then examines three models of this relationship. The first two models, believing together and praying differently, and believing differently and praying together, reflect recent discussions of “reconciled diversity” and the problems that continue from such reconciliation. The third model, believing together and praying together, uses recent discussions of “receptive ecumenism” to explore the ways in which churches might learn from the liturgical and theological gifts of each other .

Implementing trauma-informed care in a special education setting: An initial exploration of a multi-tiered model

Implementing trauma-informed care in a special education environment serving youth from historically marginalized communities with high levels of exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTEs) requires a systematic tiered approach consistent with public health guidelines. Little is known about the implementation of this framework in special education settings where youth have significant emotional and behavioral difficulties. To address this need, a consultant-community partnership was forged between a hospital providing mental health services and a therapeutic day school that serves a special education cooperative. The current case study explores the design and implementation of a three-tiered model of trauma-informed care in a special education setting. This study will address the specific practices implemented at each tier, discuss successes and challenges, and summarize future directions for research, practice, and policy.

The children of parents who receive treatment for binge-eating disorder experience improvements in disordered eating.

Parental eating disorders are associated with disordered eating behaviors and psychopathology in their children, but it is not known whether parent treatment for binge-eating disorder (BED) is associated with changes in child disordered eating behaviors and weight. Benefits or the "ripple" effect of treatment on untreated family members has been described in the obesity literature but not for BED. Participants evaluated for two randomized clinical trials for BED were screened for whether they had children. 76 parents completed baseline assessments about a school-aged child; 62 were randomized to treatment, of whom 41 completed end-of-treatment assessments about their child's eating behaviors and weight (which were not targeted in the parent treatments). Analyses revealed a significant effect of time on children's binge-eating frequency and perceived weight category and a significant effect of parent medication on perceived weight category. Parental change in binge eating was associated significantly with changes in child secretive eating and food hoarding. Parental change in weight was not associated significantly with change in age/sex-normed child BMI percentile, but had some associations with parent-perceived child weight category. Parent changes during their treatment were associated with changes in their children. Future longitudinal research is needed to examine when disordered eating emerges and clarify critical intervention timing related to children's age and parental BED. Further clinical research is also needed to assess the effectiveness of treating disordered eating at the family level. Prior cross-sectional work has found that parents with BED are more likely to have children who engage in binge eating compared to parents without eating-disorder psychopathology. This study was an initial exploration of change in children when parents received treatment in randomized controlled trials for BED. In this study, parent changes in binge eating were associated with reduced child secretive eating and food hoarding.