Search

We present a mathematical model for the slow combustion (smoldering) of a two-dimensional sheet of paper. We describe the evolution of the char region, and we investigate the effects of an orthogonal air flow on the shape of the combustion front. The mathematical formulation consists in a set of two nonlinear PDEs for the temperature and the oxygen concentrations coupled with one ODE for the cellulose concentration. The (dimensionless) problem is solved numerically by means of a spectral collocation scheme based on Chebyshev polynomials. Our results show that the Péclet and the Lewis number strongly influence the shape of the ignition front and that the advancement of the combustion front does not occur if advection and diffusion are neglected (zero Péclet and Lewis numbers). In particular we observe that the burning region and the ignition front are strongly influenced by the velocity of the airflow and by the mass and heat transport phenomena due to diffusion and advection. We shall see that the increasing of the ratio between the convective and diffusive characteristic times (Péclet number) and the decreasing of the ratio between the mass and heat diffusive characteristic times (Lewis number) have a "flattening effect" on the combustion front. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present a mathematical model and numerical simulation of the coffee-ring effect on porous papers. The numerical method is based on Monte Carlo simulation. The proposed model is simple but can capture the main mechanism of coffee stain formation on porous papers. Several numerical experiments are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithm. We can obtain the coffee-ring effect on porous papers as the computer simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical modeling is a high-leverage topic; it is critical to students' participation in STEM education and supports civic engagement. Until recently, research on modeling at the elementary level has been underemphasized, particularly research on supports and challenges for teachers who engage in designing authentic modeling tasks. In this study, we employed qualitative case study methods to investigate how elementary teachers designed and implemented authentic mathematical modeling tasks, with an explicit focus on how their tasks evidenced different dimensions of authenticity. We analyzed three cases of teams of elementary teachers as they developed modeling tasks connected to school and community contexts. The three cases were: 1) a student-driven modeling task related to paper and plastic waste in a school cafeteria, 2) a modeling task based on authentic situations at a community-run resource center, and 3) a modeling task focused on designing and monitoring a school community-building art project. Our cases illustrate that elementary teachers can successfully design and implement modeling activities that utilize different entry points and evidence multiple dimensions of authenticity. Furthermore, we found that the specific dimensions of authenticity may vary depending on the design supports and curriculum challenges within each context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To enhance the quality and efficiency of computer-enabled generation of papers for Test for English Majors Band 8 (TEM-8), a paper generation model supported by sparrow search algorithm-genetic algorithm was studied. First, a simplified test paper generation mathematical model was set up after analyzing and studying types and characteristics of TEM-8 tasks. In the model, quantity, type, difficulty, discrimination degree, scores, exposure, and answering time of test questions were taken into consideration. To enhance the optimizing effect of the genetic algorithm for searching test questions, the traditional genetic algorithm was improved by introducing the sparrow search algorithm into the model to achieve a better crossover rate, variance rate, optimization precision, and speed of the genetic algorithm. A new sparrow search-genetic algorithm (SSA-GA) was designed, and the optimizing effect of SSA-GA was verified to be ideal through optimizing six standard test functions. Then, SSA-GA was applied to conduct experimentation with test paper generation, and comparison with traditional genetic algorithms was also made. The values of best and average fitness of SSA-GA were better than those of the traditional genetic algorithm (GA) in the paper generation. Exposure rate and success rate in TEM-8 paper generation of SSA-GA were higher than those of traditional GA in TEM-8 paper generation. Results showed that the studied SSA-GA could implement test paper generation with higher speed and better quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Howard Rachlin's widely influential behavioral economic approach to self‐control and related issues provides the model for this submission. The topic is overconsumption. Current human consumption levels are unsustainable. Explanations typically focus on societal factors, such as the seductive power of advertising and/or misguided tax policies. However, the effectiveness of these factors depends on the degree to which individuals are susceptible to the message: "consume more." Humans are not blank slates. This paper argues that how individuals frame their choices establishes the susceptibility to overconsume. According to economic theory, consumers frame their options as bundles, composed of different combinations of the available items and activities. This leads to maximizing. In experiments, participants tend to frame their options as "either‐or" choices. This leads to the matching law. Mathematical models of concurrent schedule choice procedures show that (1) the matching law implies overconsumption of the most preferred option and (2) that individuals will persist in preferring their favorite option even when doing so reduces overall reward rates. Given that the matching law better describes how individuals choose than does maximizing, the mathematical models of widely used choice procedures help explain why efforts to increase consumption have been more influential than efforts to control consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to rapid temperature rise and insulation moisture, bubbles can generate in the oil-paper insulation of oil-immersed power transformers, which can reduce the dielectric strength of oil-paper insulation and even bring about the risk of insulation breakdown. In order to accurately evaluate the conditions of bubble formation, the physical process of bubble formation in oil-paper insulation is studied in this article. Considering the effects of water vaporization, gas dissolution in oil, and moisture migration on bubble formation, a bubble formation prediction model is constructed. Based on Henry’s law, the dissolution equilibrium of gas in oil is taken into consideration and the upper boundary of the initial temperature of bubble effect (ITBE) envelope is obtained in this model. Based on the moisture equilibrium in oil-paper insulation, the bubble formation process caused by the emergence and rapid evaporation of free water is analyzed, and then, the lower boundary of the ITBE envelope is obtained in this model. The model results show that the moisture content of the pressboard and the presence of free water have a great impact on ITBE. Specifically, the higher the moisture content, the lower the ITBE value. In addition, with the further increase of moisture content, the upper and lower boundaries of the ITBE envelope gradually tend to be the same. However, once free water is present on the surface of cellulose, ITBE decreases rapidly to below 120 °C. The model built in this article is of great significance to study the temperature limit of the power transformer. Hence the ITBE envelope can provide an important theoretical reference for reducing the risk of bubble formation during power transformer operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Methanol concentration as an aging indicator can assess cellulose aging and estimate cellulose degree of polymerization (DP). Despite the advantages of methanol (MeOH), its major disadvantage is that its concentration in the oil decreases after some time. This point is called the MeOH peak in this article. Therefore, using this indicator when MeOH concentration is reduced leads to incorrect results. When using methanol, the main problem is that whenever the methanol concentration in a transformer is measured, it cannot be identified that the measured concentration belongs to the left or right side of the MeOH peak. If the measured concentration belongs to the right side of the MeOH peak, the estimated DP is incorrect. In this article, an empirical equation is established to estimate the DP value as a function of methanol concentration when methanol concentration belongs to the left side of the MeOH peak. Then, a new index called methanol peak detector index (MPDI) composed of a 2-furfural/MeOH ratio and normalized DP is presented to ensure the validity of the calculated DP value. If it is found that the measured concentration belongs to the left side of the MeOH peak, then the estimated DP by the presented equation is valid. Finally, the application of this method is verified by applying it to measurement data samples indicating the validity of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mathematical modelling is a powerful tool in science. Causal mathematical models based on a clear picture of how key variables interact enable a deeper understanding of a given situation and provide reliable predictions. This is a classic approach in science. Unfortunately, this approach is declining in pulp and paper-related research in favour of simply reporting experimental data. The lack of a framework provided by a model diminishes the value of much experimental work. Therefore, the increased use of mathematical models is encouraged, and this approach is illustrated via several practical examples from our work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generation and distribution of furfural are significantly affected by moisture content in the insulating paper. However, the diffusion mechanism of furfural under moisture effect is not clear, hence, this study investigates the effect of moisture on the diffusion characteristics of furfural by combining macro experiment and micro molecular dynamics simulation. The simulation results demonstrate that the increased moisture content in paper accelerates the diffusion of furfural from paper to oil, which is also proved by the experimental data. Then, the results of interaction energy analysis indicate that the increase of moisture enhances the van der Waals force between oil and furfural. The present findings are expected to improve the theoretical level of furfural analysis, which will facilitate the aging evaluation of the transformer insulating paper based on furfural. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The space charge effect of transformer insulating paper will distort its internal electric field, and its space charge effect will be more prominent under extremely complex working conditions. At present, the micromechanism of charge transport and electric field distortion characteristics of paperboard are not clear under complex working conditions. So in this article, based on the bipolar carrier transport (BCT) model and the dynamic carrier balance model, the effects of high temperature, aging degree, moisture content, and bent degree on charges accumulation in paperboard are studied under dc high voltage by numerical simulation and the measured data needed for simulation. The results show that the higher temperature strengthens the carrier migration, deepens the injection depth of the charge, and aggravates the distortion of electric field intensity in paperboard. The more extended the aging time of paperboard, the greater the internal trap density and the deeper the trap depth, which lead to charges migration difficultly. Increasing water content in the paperboard will accelerate space charges to reach a steady state, while further increasing it will slow down this process, which is related to the shallow trap getting deeper. When the critical part of paperboard is extruded, many traps are introduced, resulting in charges accumulation seriously. The research results can reference the design of paperboard and the maintenance of transformer insulation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is aimed at quantifying the health condition of the power transformer insulation system through its frequency-domain dielectric characteristic by using the concept of the resistor and fractional calculus. In this regard, the dielectric model of the fractional Poynting–Thomson (PT) is proposed, and a mathematical model for parameter identification of the proposed model is presented. The shuffled frog leaping algorithm (SFLA) is used to realize the parameter identification and the fractional PT model parameters of the oil-paper samples under different insulation health conditions. The influence of moisture and aging on the fractional PT dielectric model parameters is experimentally studied. Results show that, with the increase in the water content within the insulation system, the parameters of the fractional PT model gradually decrease, and there is a strong correlation between the relaxation time and the water content. This facilitates the employment of the fractional PT model parameters to quantify the aging and moisture content of the power transformer insulation system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional method for transformer moisture diagnosis is to establish empirical equations between feature parameters extracted from frequency domain spectroscopy (FDS) and the transformer’s moisture content. However, the established empirical equation may not be applicable to a novel testing environment, resulting in an unreliable evaluation result. In this regard, it is acknowledged that FDS combined with machine learning is more suitable for estimating moisture content in a variety of test environments. Nonetheless, the accuracy of the estimation results obtained using the existing method is limited by the algorithm’s inability to generalize. To address this issue, we propose an AdaBoost algorithm-enhanced back-propagation neural network (BP_AdaBoost). This study creates a database by extracting feature parameters from the FDS that characterize the insulation states of the prepared samples. Then, using the BP_AdaBoost algorithm and the newly constructed database, the moisture estimation models are trained. Finally, the results of the estimation are discussed in terms of laboratory and field transformers. By comparing the proposed BP_AdaBoost algorithm to other intelligence algorithms, it is demonstrated that it not only performs better in generalization, but also maintains a high level of accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Buck converter is a commonly used voltage regulator (VR) structure that supplies power to the load devices and responds to load transients. In most of the applications, the VR is controlled by voltage or current mode control, and some nonlinear approaches are used to improve the transient response which brings more complexities to the closed loop design. To achieve a fast transient response without over-regulation under a load step transient, this paper proposes a digital single-cycle regulation (SCCR) controller, which comprised a fast path, a slow path, and a neutralization path. Unlike the conventional PID control, the neutralization path of the SCCR controller is used to offset the excessive energy change in the first cycle after a load step occurs, which makes the inductor current reach its new static condition in a shorter period of time. The mathematical model of the SCCR control is established in this paper and a scanning algorithm is proposed for the design of the compensator parameters. Experimental results are presented to verify the improvement of the transient response when compared to the conventional and nonlinear PID control, the recovery time is decreased by 64.3% and 43% for load step-up and step-down when compared with nonlinear PID control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Does the materiality of a three-dimensional model have an effect on how this model operates in an exploratory way, how it prompts discovery of new mathematical results? Material mathematical models were produced and used during the second half of the nineteenth century, visualizing mathematical objects, such as curves and surfaces—and these were produced from a variety of materials: paper, cardboard, plaster, strings, wood. However, the question, whether their materiality influenced the status of these models—considered as exploratory, technical, or representational—was hardly touched upon. This article aims to approach this question by investigating two case studies: Beltrami's paper models vs. Dyck's plaster ones of the hyperbolic plane; and Chisini's string models of braids vs. Artin's and Moishezon's algebraization of these braids. These two case studies indicate that materiality might have a decisive role in how the model was taken into account mathematically: either as an exploratory or rather as a technical or pedagogical object. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The imbalance between the prevalence of patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF) and acute-on-chronic respiratory failure and the number of intensive care unit (ICU) beds requires new solutions. The increasing use of non-invasive respiratory tools to support patients at earlier stages of ARF and the increased expertise of non-ICU clinicians in other types of supportive care have led to the development of adult pulmonary intensive care units (PICUs) and pulmonary intermediate care units (PIMCUs). As in other European countries, Italian PICUs and PIMCUs provide an intermediate level of care as the setting designed for managing ARF patients without severe non-pulmonary dysfunction. The PICUs and PIMCUs may also act as step-down units for weaning patients from prolonged mechanical ventilation and for discharging patients still requiring ventilatory support at home. These units may play an important role in the on-going coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. This position paper promoted by the Italian Thoracic Society (ITS-AIPO) describes the models, facilities, staff, equipment, and operating methods of PICUs and PIMCUs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Does the materiality of a three-dimensional model have an effect on how this model operates in an exploratory way, how it prompts discovery of new mathematical results? Material mathematical models were produced and used during the second half of the nineteenth century, visualizing mathematical objects, such as curves and surfaces—and these were produced from a variety of materials: paper, cardboard, plaster, strings, wood. However, the question, whether their materiality influenced the status of these models—considered as exploratory, technical, or representational—was hardly touched upon. This article aims to approach this question by investigating two case studies: Beltrami's paper models vs. Dyck's plaster ones of the hyperbolic plane; and Chisini's string models of braids vs. Artin's and Moishezon's algebraization of these braids. These two case studies indicate that materiality might have a decisive role in how the model was taken into account mathematically: either as an exploratory or rather as a technical or pedagogical object. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB) has been regularly documented as a demanding area of practice within the United Kingdom (UK). The aim of this paper is to share a practice model developed in an under-resourced inner London borough. The HSB forum is formed of a multi-agency group of professionals and runs monthly providing a platform for practitioners to seek consultation for young people they are working with who are displaying HSB's. Initial feedback for the forum from practitioners has been consistently positive and they have valued specifically the opportunity to formulate, have clear directions, and the multi-disciplinary perspective. In addition, most reported feeling empowered to implement the recommendations suggested. Given the shared vulnerability factors between those displaying HSB's and other at-risk young people such as those who are being sexually exploited, this model provides an innovative way that practitioners can be supported by multiple agencies where there is a lack of specialist services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Combined effects of extruded brick compositions with paper sludge and expanded perlite were characterized. • The use of additives in bricks has significantly affected their thermo-physical and mechanical properties. • The effects of process parameters on brick properties were investigated with a new mathematical modeling approach. • Fired brick samples showed good thermal insulation performance. • Produced exruded bricks have good potential for energy saving. Lightweight bricks produced with addition of different additive materials such as expanded perlite (EP) and recycling paper sludge (RPS) waste have been accomplished by a pug mill. Porous fired bricks were produced by using organic and inorganic additives such as paper waste and expanded perlite as pore-makers. In the experimental study, the seventeen mixture sets were prepared with Box-Behnken experimental design procedure of two additive ratios and firing temperatures. The brick samples were produced with shaping by extrusion method and firing at 850, 950 and 1050 °C for two hours after drying. Physical characteristics such as bulk density, apparent porosity and water absorption, and also, compressive strength, thermal conductivity and microstructural properties of brick samples were studied. Influences of process parameters on brick properties were investigated with a detailed neuro-regression analysis. In conclusion, the best brick composition (10 % EP + 10 %RPS by weight) in terms of thermal conductivity corresponding to acceptable mechanical properties was optimized. Accordingly, the compressive strength values of all samples are around 10 to 27 MPa. Also, the samples with high additive content (especially 10 %RPS + 5 %EP sample) exhibited the lowest thermal conductivity value (0.432 W/mK) due to the low firing temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is the development of a mathematical model to compute the optimal inventory mix to face stochastic demand at minimum cost in a two-level supply chain. The paper addresses a multi-product dynamic lot-sizing problem under stochastic demand subject to capacity and service level constraints. This model is executed to compare a Make To Order (MTO) strategy to a Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) partnership between the supplier and their customers. Both strategies provide the demand order to be produced. A schedule of production orders is determined over the planning horizon in order to minimize the inventory holding costs of the supply chain, taking into consideration that the supplier is also responsible of initiating the replenishment orders and deliveries of their customers according to the VMI partnership. The simulation model is illustrated empirically using a real case study: a paper manufacturing company that pursues to improve customer service level and supply chain inventory costs through a proper production planning of their paper machines and a suitable VMI order replenishment schedule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accuracy of insulation defect diagnosis based on the dielectric spectrum response is severely influenced by temperature for oil-impregnated paper bushing. The dielectric loss (tan δ) mathematical model with a temperature–frequency factor to restrict the application of the frequency domain dielectric spectrum (FDS) for insulation diagnosis is not clear. In this paper, five temperatures are selected to study the frequency temperature characteristic of the FDS and polarization current for oil-impregnated paper bushing. The experimental results show that the temperature has different effects on the lower frequency (0.001 Hz–1 Hz) and higher frequency (1000 Hz–10 kHz) of FDS. With the increasing temperature, the lower frequency tan δ of 1 mHz–1 Hz shows a better pattern of exponential growth, while the higher frequency tan δ at 1 kHz–10 kHz shows the declining law with the rising temperature. With the increasing temperature, the polarization current shows a better pattern of exponential growth, while resistance obviously shows the declining law of the exponential pattern. The FDS curve of oil-impregnated paper bushings can be amended by the mathematical model of tan δ for the dielectric response on site for accuracy diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulp-and-paper mills produce various types of contaminants and a significant amount of wastewater depending on the type of processes used in the plant. Since the generated wastewaters can be potentially polluting and very dangerous, they should be treated in wastewater treatment plants before being released to the environment. This paper reviews different wastewater treatment processes used in the pulp-and-paper industry and compares them with respect to their contaminant removal efficiencies and the extent of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission. It also evaluates the impact of operating parameters on the performance of different treatment processes. Two mathematical models were used to estimate GHG emission in common biological treatment processes used in the pulp-and-paper industry. Nutrient removal processes and sludge treatment are discussed and their associated GHG emissions are calculated. Although both aerobic and anaerobic biological processes are appropriate for wastewater treatment, their combination known as hybrid processes showed a better contaminant removal capacity at higher efficiencies under optimized operating conditions with reduced GHG emission and energy costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pulp and paper sector is the fourth largest industrial sector in terms of energy use in the world. Of the numerous processes involved in paper-making by a paper machine, the dryer section is the process that consumes the largest amount of energy. A model-based method for estimating energy-saving potentials of the dryer section was put forward in the present study. It was done by four steps: establishing a mathematical model about energy consumption, determining the model parameters, benchmarking the drying performance to obtain the corresponding energy-saving measures, and estimating the energy-saving potentials by using the mathematical model. In a case study, a multi-cylinder dryer section was selected to illustrate the method. After a fundamental field test and observation, several operating problems that restricted the energy performance of paper drying were found. And then several reasonable energy-saving measures were suggested to the operators. Finally, applying the mathematic model, it was found that 0.32 ton of steam will be saved when producing 1 ton of paper in recommended operating conditions. With the designed capacity of 200,000 tons/year, the annual steam-savings will be 64,000 tons. Generally, the price of steam is 130–150 Chinese Yuan (about US$21–24) in China, and the annual economic benefits will be 8.32–9.60 million Chinese Yuan (about US$1.344–1.536 million). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planning and implementing surge capacity in healthcare services is challenging. The evolving nature of viral transmission makes it difficult to predict the potential impact on the health system and the readiness of healthcare managers and professional staff in responding to system transformation and consequential impacts. This is compounded by sudden increased demands in the types of work required. Guidance for implementing targeted strategies for health systems and services should include evidence that considers the feasibility, appropriateness, meaningfulness and effectiveness of healthcare practices at both the system and organization level. This is consistent with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) model of evidence synthesis and translation. Evidence-based decision-making is a core management competency for health service leadership and the mechanism for improving the quality of management decisions, and hence better service delivery, effectiveness and efficiency. Human resources are the most important asset in crisis management. Health managers must create responsive surge capacity by quantifying existent human and material resources and the shortfall needs required to meet anticipated additional demand. We believe a multifaceted approach is the key to developing systemic surge capacity within the heath sector when faced with the management of crises such as pandemics. We explore and discuss the desirability of strategies based on the JBI model of evidence synthesis and implementation with a view to encouraging the creation of registries and followup systems. We believe this will encourage the effective use of human resources including the upskilling in how future crises may be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the dynamics of the size of a population via mathematical modelling is a problem of interest and widely studied. Traditionally, continuous deterministic methods based on differential equations have been used to deal with this problem. However, discrete versions of some models are also available and sometimes more adequate. In this paper, we randomize the Pielou logistic equation in order to include the inherent uncertainty in modelling. Taking advantage of the method of transformation of random variables, we provide a full probabilistic description to the randomized Pielou logistic model via the computation of the probability density functions of the solution stochastic process, the steady state, and the time until a certain level of population is reached. The theoretical results are illustrated by means of two examples: The first one consists of a numerical experiment and the second one shows an application to study the diffusion of a technology using real data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore connections between spiritual metaparadigm and the nursing metaparadigm and advocate for a progressive spiritualization of nursing management. Background: Relationship between the spiritual holistic metaparadigm of love, communion and gift and the holonic nursing metaparadigm of care, relationship and practice is not completely understood. Method: The construction of a theoretical explanation on the basis of accumulated knowledge in the fields of nursing and spirituality (especially Christian spirituality) for the purpose of constructing a meaningful description. Results: Deep connectivity between the elements of both metaparadigms: love and care, communion and relationship, and gift and practice. Conclusion: The connection between the spiritual and nursing metaparadigms is real in nursing education, practice and management because of the holistic character of spirituality. In collective intentions and cultural values are the main channels of interaction between the nursing and the spiritual metaparadigms. Implications for nursing management: Spirituality influences nursing management by, among other things, (a) providing meaning and purpose; (b) promoting cohesion in health communities; (c) fostering respect for ethics; (d) stimulating innovation; (e) encouraging leadership; and (f) illuminating the workplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In automata networks, it is well known that the way entities update their states over time has a major impact on their dynamics. In particular, depending on the chosen update schedule, the underlying dynamical systems may exhibit more or less asymptotic dynamical behaviours such as fixed points or limit cycles. Since such mathematical models have been used in the framework of biological networks modelling, the question of choosing appropriate update schedules has arised soon. In this note, focusing on Boolean networks, our aim is to emphasise that the adequate way of thinking regulations and genetic expression over time is certainly not to consider a wall segregating synchronicity from asynchronicity because they actually complement rather well. In particular, we highlight that specific update schedules, namely block-parallel update schedules, whose intrinsic features are still not known from a theoretical point of view, admit realistic and pertinent properties in the context of biological modelling and deserve certainly more attention from the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper-cutting is a traditional Chinese art, and Fuyang paper-cutting is a miracle of Chinese paper-cutting art. As Fuyang paper-cutting art is gradually promoted by artists during the historical inheritance, its traditional form has changed, a batch of new-style paper-cutting artworks have been created, Wang Xiaying is a leading figure in its inheritance. From the perspective of manifestation means and modeling language, this paper found that Wang Xiaying on the basis of inheriting traditional paper-cutting learned from other arts, applied innovative techniques to break through limitations in modeling, and realized the innovation of paper-cutting art It was concluded that traditional paper-cutting arts could only achieve sustainable development by integrating with new elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I will briefly discuss the history of research-related projects that Mark Burgin and I worked on together. I will then discuss our joint research related to the circle of sense and nonsense. One paper was entitled In a search for deeper meanings: navigating the circle of Sense and Nonsense and in turn articulating logical varieties as knowledge illuminators and the second was entitled In the Circle of Sense and Nonsense, Including A Mathematic Model of Meaning. This research represents a bridge between the media arts and sciences (my artwork) as a means of embodying ideas exploring a particular approach to meaning production and related computation, as well as Burgin's concepts related to logical varieties and mathematical models of meaning. I will refer to the full papers and links because they present a very robust and full articulation of the concepts discussed here. In this paper, I will briefly touch on the areas of research, supply short definitions, and refer to the relevant historical publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The psychometric properties of the paper–pencil and online versions of the Beliefs Toward Mental Illness Scale (BTMI) were examined in two studies with Latina/o individuals. In Study 1, 316 Latina/o participants completed the BTMI in a paper–pencil mode. The original three-factor model was found to be a poor fit model for the sample. Subsequent exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses identified a four-factor model as the best fitting model for the sample. The identified factors were Dangerousness, Social Dysfunction, Incurability, and Embarrassment. In Study 2, the identified best fit model was tested with 280 Latina/o participants who completed the BTMI online. The four-factor model had adequate fit. A series of measurement invariance tests on the fit model supported equal factor loadings, but rejected equivalent intercepts across paper–pencil and online administration methods, though partially equivalent intercepts and residuals were found. Consequently, modality-specific norms are recommended, depending on whether paper–pencil or online venues are utilized for administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spatiotemporal arrangement of interacting populations often influences the maintenance of species diversity and is a subject of intense research. Here, we study the spatiotemporal patterns arising from the cyclic competition between three species in two dimensions. Inspired by recent experiments, we consider a generic metapopulation model comprising "rock-paper-scissors" interactions via dominance removal and replacement, reproduction, mutations, pair exchange, and hopping of individuals. By combining analytical and numerical methods, we obtain the model's phase diagram near its Hopf bifurcation and quantitatively characterize the properties of the spiraling patterns arising in each phase. The phases characterizing the cyclic competition away from the Hopf bifurcation (at low mutation rate) are also investigated. Our analytical approach relies on the careful analysis of the properties of the complex Ginzburg-Landau equation derived through a controlled (perturbative) multiscale expansion around the model's Hopf bifurcation. Our results allow us to clarify when spatial "rock-paper-scissors" competition leads to stable spiral waves and under which circumstances they are influenced by nonlinear mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to discuss heuristics, guided by Parse's (2021a) community model, to understand how health policies emerge from the unique values and beliefs of community constituents. Within this paper, there is a discussion about heuristics, health policy, Parse's humanbecoming paradigm, and policy implications reflected upon with the change concepts of the humanbecoming community model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Many Covid‐19 survivors are living with unresolved, relapsing and remitting symptoms and no 'one size' of treatment is likely to be effective for everyone. Supported self‐management for the varied symptoms of Long Covid (LC) is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the United Kingdom. We aimed to develop a new personalised support intervention for people living with LC using a structured co‐design framework to guide replication and evaluation. Methods: We used the improvement methodology, Experience‐Based Co‐Design, in an accelerated form to harness the collective experiences of people with LC. Incorporating evidence from 'Bridges Self‐Management' (Bridges) an approach in which healthcare professionals (HCPs)are trained to support knowledge, confidence and skills of individuals living with long term conditions. Co‐designed resources are also central to Bridges. Adults who self‐identified as living with or recovered from LC, from England or Wales, aged 18 years and over were recruited, and HCPs, with experience of supporting people with LC. Participants took part in a series of small co‐design group meetings and larger mixed meetings to agree priorities, core principles and generate resources and intervention content. Results: People with LC (n = 28), and HCPs (n = 9) supported co‐design of a book (hard‐copy and digital form) to be used in 1:1 support sessions with a trained HCP. Co‐design stages prioritised stories about physical symptoms first, and psychological and social challenges which followed, nonlinear journeys and reconceptualising stability as progress, rich descriptions of strategies and links to reputable advice and support for navigating healthcare services. Co‐design enabled formulation of eight core intervention principles which underpinned the training and language used by HCPs and fidelity assessments. Conclusion: We have developed a new personalised support intervention, with core principles to be used in one‐to‐one sessions delivered by trained HCPs, with a new co‐designed book as a prompt to build personalised strategies and plans using narratives, ideas, and solutions from other people with LC. Effectiveness and cost effectiveness of the 'LISTEN' intervention will be evaluated in a randomised controlled trial set within the context of the updated Framework for Developing and Evaluating Complex Interventions. Patient and Public Contribution: The LISTEN Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) group comprised seven people living with LC. They all contributed to the design of this study and five members were part of a larger co‐design community described in this paper. They have contributed to this paper by interpreting stages of intervention design and analysis of results. Three members of our PPI group are co‐authors of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the Cumulative Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (CCVRP), which is used to model many real-world applications, especially in the area of supplying humanitarian aid after a natural disaster. Interestingly, in this study, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) so-called drones are used to assist the trucks in delivering parcels to customers. Each of them travels to different locations to perform specified tasks and meet periodically with the vehicle from which it takes off to swap its battery. In this paper, a mathematical model is formulated which is then tested with small-sized problems using CPLEX software. Due to the difficulty of solving large instances to optimality, we propose a heuristic algorithm based on a well-established type of cluster-first, route-second approach. Then, it is enhanced by some proposed properties. Hereafter, we develop a minimum spanning tree based-lower bound. Finally, extensive computational experiments are carried out by using instances from the literature. They show the good performance of the proposed heuristic algorithm to solve large instances in a very competitive running time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores general coupled dynamic equations on time scales with multiple delays and investigates the existence of periodic solutions using the coincidence degree theory approach. The model studied includes the mathematical models of Nicholson, Mackey–Glass, and Lasota–Wazewska as special cases. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the solutions are not only asymptotically stable but also exponentially synchronized. The presented results significantly extend and complement existing findings in the field. The paper concludes with illustrative examples that highlight the practical implications of our analytical discoveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to investigate the pesticide safety behaviours and related factors among cabbage farmers in Kalaw Township, Myanmar. Background: Unsafe chemical pesticide practices affect farmers' health and the environment. Understanding pesticide safety behaviours is necessary for healthcare providers to protect agriculture workers against unwanted adverse health effects. Methods: The cross‐sectional study was conducted among 195 cabbage farmers from March to May 2019. Safety behaviours and factors applied in the PRECEDE–PROCEDE model as a framework were assessed using questionnaires. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify any associations. Results: Altogether, 72.1% of the farmers had a low level of safety behaviours. Goggles and masks were rarely used before and during pesticide applications. All of the farmers experienced adverse health effects after using pesticides. The attitudes toward pesticide poisoning; support from family, co‐workers and healthcare providers; and the availability of personal protective equipment were significantly associated with safety behaviours. Conclusion: Our data provide novel empirical evidence for an opportunity to design effective nursing interventions to promote pesticide safety behaviours among Myanmar agricultural workers. Nurses should pay more attention to promoting comprehensive interventions to reduce both exposure and health effects among agricultural workers through the involvement of supported stakeholders. Summary statement: What is already known about this topic? Farmers and agricultural workers have extensively used pesticides in all steps of cultivation and face a greater risk of pesticide exposure, which could result in adverse health effects.Owing to the lack of research on community health promotion conducted in Myanmar, the burden of the consequences and adverse effects of pesticides remains a significant health issue. What this paper adds? Findings reveal a clear framework for better understanding and assessing pesticide safety behaviours among agricultural workers and farmers in Myanmar.Findings contribute new knowledge for nursing community health promotion by enhancing understanding of multilevel factors, including international and external factors, associated with safety behaviours among agricultural workers and farmers. The implications of this paper: Nurses and other healthcare professionals should be aware of the importance of preventing adverse health effects among agricultural workers in the community and interventions aimed at promoting safety behaviours should be focused not only on individuals but also on the involvement of social supports—particularly family and co‐workers.Nursing policymakers should consider strengthening the nursing role in the recognition of pesticide risk exposure and health outcomes, management of pesticide poisoning and exposure and prevention of pesticide‐related health conditions both in nursing education and nursing practice.Local authorities and policymakers should focus their attention on health promotion and health services to promote safety behaviours when using pesticides, and treatment and extension services should be provided for cases of suspected pesticide poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issues of the evaluation and prediction of the reliability and testability of mining machinery and equipment are becoming particularly relevant, since the safety of technological processes and human life is reaching a new level of realisation due to changes in mining technology. The work is devoted to the development of a logical model for analysing the controllability of mining equipment. The paper presents a model of reliability of the operation of mining equipment on the example of a mine load and passenger hoist. This generalised model is made in the form of a graph of transitions and supplemented with a system of equations. The model allows for the estimation of the reliability of equipment elements and equipment as a whole. A mathematical and logical model for the calculation of the availability and downtime coefficients of various designs of mining equipment systems is proposed. This model became the basis for the methods to calculate the optimal values of diagnostic depth. At these calculated values, the maximum value of availability factor will be obtained. In this paper, an analytical study was carried out and dependences of the readiness factor of parameters of the investigated system such as the intensity of control of technical systems, intensity of failures, etc., were constructed. The paper proposes a mathematical model to assess the reliability of mine hoisting plants through its integration into the method of improving the reliability of mine hoisting plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we obtain the existence of at least two standing waves (and homoclinic solutions) for a class of time-dependent (and time-independent) discrete nonlinear Schrödinger systems or equations. The novelties of the paper are as follows. (1) Our nonlinearities are composed of three mixed growth terms, i.e., the nonlinearities are composed of sub-linear, asymptotically-linear and super-linear terms. (2) Our nonlinearities may be sign-changing. (3) Our results can also be applied to the cases of concave-convex nonlinear terms. (4) Our results can be applied to a wide range of mathematical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) is widely used in airborne optoelectronic stabilization platforms due to its minimal reliance on the mathematical model of the controlled object. The extended state observer (ESO) is the core of ADRC, which treats internal parameter variations and external disturbances as total disturbances, observes the disturbances as extended states, and then compensates them into the control loop to eliminate their effects. However, the ESO can only achieve a precise estimation of constant or slowly varying disturbances. When the disturbance is periodically changing, satisfactory results cannot be obtained. In this paper, a generalized high-order extended state observer (GHOESO) is proposed to achieve the precise estimation of known frequency sinusoidal disturbance signals and improve disturbance suppression levels. Through numerical simulations, a traditional ESO and GHOESO are compared in terms of disturbance observation capability and disturbance suppression ability for single and compound disturbances based on our prior knowledge of disturbance frequency. The effectiveness of the proposed GHOESO method is verified. Finally, the algorithm is applied to an airborne optoelectronic stabilization platform for a 1°/1 Hz swing experiment on a space hexapod swing table. The experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the GHOESO proposed in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper undertakes a revisit of the sunk cost fallacy, which refers to the tendency of people to persist investing resources into something, even if it is destined to have no good outcome. We emphasize that the utilities associated with different alternatives are not static for decision makers, which is exactly opposite to the traditional perspective. This paper argues that the utility of an option may change due to the choice of another option, suggesting that decisions considered irrational by the traditional analytical method, i.e., sunk cost fallacy, may be rational. We propose a novel analytical method for decision making with sunk cost when considering the utility change and validate the effectiveness of this method through mathematical modeling and computational experiments. This paper mathematically describes such decision-making problems, analyzing the impact of changes in the utilities across different alternatives on decision making with a real-world example. Furthermore, we develop a two-stage stochastic optimization model for such decision-making problems and employ the sample average approximation (SAA) method to solve them. The results from computational experiments indicate that some decisions traditionally considered irrational are, in fact, rational when the utility of an option changes as a result of choosing another option. This paper, therefore, highlights the significance of incorporating utility changes into the decision-making process and stands as a valuable addition to the literature, offering a refreshed and effective decision-making method for improved decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide. A clinical model for its cause is lacking. Defining a cause based clinical model and a framework of understanding back pain in terms of peripheral structural and central functional pain is essential for optimal management. We describe the results of the largest published audit of 41 chronic low back pain patients, receiving outpatient sublingual ketamine therapy for defined central functional pain along with conventional peripheral structural pain management. Our clinical model assigns Movement Dysfunction as the primary cause for low back pain symptoms and restores it with Movement Therapy focused rehabilitation which is also defined. Patients were derived from a tertiary single neurosurgical specialist practice in Brisbane Australia over a three year period. Severe pain and disability measurements more than halved and only 13% of patients ceased ketamine prematurely due to predominantly non-sinister side effects common to all pharmaceutical therapies. All other surveyed metrics of utility were highly favourable in this challenging cohort of chronic back pain patients biased to poor outcomes. Outpatient ketamine maintains high efficacy and safety used in conjunction with a unique clinical model that describes chronic low back pain. This paper builds on our previous publications that describe the disease of movement dysfunction as an integral factor to the development of a cause based clinical model for the condition of chronic low back pain symptoms. Our clinical application of this model, applying the necessary dual approach of controlling symptoms arising from peripheral structural pain and central functional pain in conjunction with elimination of root causation has shown favourable outcomes in patients with high levels of pain and disability based on their tertiary referral origin and high Oswestry Disability Scores. Removing chronic low back pain from its position as one of the world's leading causes of pain and disability is more likely if the rehabilitation industry can replicate and test treatment algorithms based around established clinical models of disease which is the important subject of this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a centralized disturbance suppression strategy for distributed drive electric vehicles which is based on model predictive direct motion control. This strategy is capable of addressing issues such as parameter uncertainties and external disturbances in vehicles. Firstly, the paper provides a brief introduction to model predictive direct motion control. Secondly, it analyzes the impact of vehicle parameter uncertainties and external disturbances on the mathematical model. Finally, a centralized disturbance suppression strategy based on a sliding mode observer is proposed. Simulation results demonstrate that this strategy exhibits excellent disturbance rejection capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Music therapy research has traditionally been somewhat fragmented into different research traditions. This paper argues that the burgeoning field of enactivism could provide important theoretical integration to music therapy research and practice. Stressing the interdependence of mind, brain, body, and environment, enactivism has provided theoretical integration in several fields, not least music cognition and psychiatry. This paper is the first focused theoretical contribution that applies relevant enactivist theory to music therapy. After a reflection on theoretical developments in music therapy, we provide a general introduction to enactivism and its multiple origins in human and biological sciences and present its existing contributions to understanding mental illness and musicking. We also make a specific contribution, through discussion of an example of free music improvisation. Providing an enactive analysis of the sense of agency in this practice, we argue that music improvisation, especially in therapy, might work particularly well for people with severe mental illness because improvisation strengthens and flexes the disturbed sense of agency that often characterizes such mental health challenges. Finally, we discuss strengths and weaknesses of the proposed framework and suggest future potential studies to better evaluate the potential contribution of enactivism to the research and practice of music therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper argues that a lonely death is, by definition, a bad death and that society as a whole, as well as individuals in society are obligated to assure a certain degree of well‐being, flourishing, or care among and for fellow individuals. Individuals can then be said to have a right against dying a lonely death. Such a right has corresponding duties. The paper further specifies what such duties may entail based on what individuals may need on their deathbed, specifically focusing on the need for human touch. Assuming that human touch might indeed be needed by some individuals in order to avoid a lonely death, the paper explores potential implications from a public health perspective, particularly during infectious disease outbreaks such as COVID. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Telehealth for paediatric speech and language therapy became one of the most salient modes of service delivery during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Evidence for speech and language therapy services via telehealth in comparison to face‐to‐face delivery demonstrates promising outcomes, and studies have begun to explore practitioner and client experiences. However, across the literature, many critical elements of services are overlooked, and there is a need to frame the evidence base within a theoretical model that can draw out practical implications that consider the range of factors having an impact on clinical implementation in real‐world contexts. The APEASE (Acceptability, Practicability, Effectiveness, Affordability, Side‐effects, and Equity) criteria offer such a model. The current study explored practising UK speech and language therapists' (SLTs) clinical experience of telehealth through the lens of the APEASE criteria and aimed to identify recommendations for future service provision from the practitioner perspective. Methods: An online survey structured using the APEASE criteria was developed in collaboration with the UK Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Four hundred and thirty‐eight qualified and practicing UK paediatric SLTs completed the survey. Telehealth was broadly acceptable and practicable to SLTs yet there remains some uncertainty about its efficacy and cost‐effectiveness compared to face‐to‐face interventions and how equitable it is for different population groups. SLTs reported that effective implementation of telehealth services was dependent upon several contextual factors; affordability was a perceived barrier to clients having access to telehealth resources, intervention via telehealth was perceived as more acceptable than assessment, and whilst many SLTs welcomed aspects of telehealth, there were concerns about the physical and mental health consequences for practitioners. Six themes for the future development of telehealth in paediatric speech and language therapy were identified: (1) balanced and tailored services; (2) technology and equipment; (3) information and communication; (4) capacity building; (5) monitoring and evaluation; and (6) leadership and governance. Conclusions: Outcomes highlight promising, concerning and uncertain aspects of telehealth in paediatric speech and language therapy. SLTs value a flexible and tailored approach to service delivery and recommend that effective leadership, clear communication, ongoing policy and guidance development, upskilling of users and careful evaluation of impact are required to ensure optimal implementation. The APEASE criteria offer a valuable opportunity to enhance and streamline practice and research to ensure sustainable implementation of telehealth in the paediatric speech and language therapy services of tomorrow. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on this subject: The COVID‐19 pandemic led to the increased use of telehealth as a main mode of service delivery in paediatric speech and language therapy. Pre‐COVID‐19, evidence for the use of telehealth in this field included small‐scale experimental studies that reported on children with particular disorders and explored telehealth outcomes in comparison to face‐to‐face delivery. The realities of at‐scale clinical practice were not well‐represented, and critical elements of service such as cost‐effectiveness were often overlooked in the paediatric literature. Furthermore, despite emerging global evidence for temporary telehealth responses to the crisis in speech and language therapy, the long‐term and future use of telehealth remains unclear. What this paper adds to existing knowledge: The current study applied the lens of the APEASE (Acceptability, Practicability, Effectiveness, Affordability, Side‐effects, and Equity) criteria, which were used in this case to consider socioeconomic, ecological and cultural factors to capture an overarching understanding of the use of telehealth in paediatric speech and language therapy, and to inform the role of telehealth in future, longer‐term and at‐scale service development. Results indicated emerging trends in UK paediatric speech and language therapists' (SLTs') perceptions of telehealth and SLTs perceived a hybrid approach to service delivery, combining mostly face‐to‐face services with some telehealth, was likely to continue in the future. We identified six themes to guide the future development of telehealth in paediatric speech and language therapy services: (1) balanced and tailored services; (2) technology and equipment; (3) information and communication; (4) capacity building; (5) monitoring and evaluation; and (6) leadership and governance. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?: UK SLTs believe that speech and language therapy services using telehealth should be reflective, tailored and flexible to meet the requirements and circumstances of the children, young people and families served, as well as the physical and emotional needs of practitioners. SLTs recommend that this service development is clearly communicated to all stakeholders and suggested that those using telehealth should be supported through appropriate training, and ongoing effectiveness should be monitored. Telehealth is here to stay and the APEASE criteria offer a unique opportunity to ensure sustainable models of service delivery; to support co‐ordinated leadership at the local, national and international levels and the development of policy and clinical guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Speech Language Therapy First Point of Contact Clinic (SLT‐FPOCC) models can assist assessment of low‐risk patient populations referred to ear, nose and throat (ENT) services. To further improve ENT waitlist management and compliance with best‐practice care, consideration of other low‐risk populations that could be safely managed through this service model is needed. The aims of this paper are to evaluate the clinical and service outcomes of completing vocal cord check (VCC) assessments for patients' pre and post thyroid/parathyroid surgery within an SLT‐FPOCC model and examine consumer perceptions. Methods & Procedures: The service followed existing SLT‐FPOCC procedures, with ENT triaging referrals, then SLT completing pre‐ and postoperative VCC assessment (interview, perceptual assessment, flexible nasendoscopy), with assessment data later reviewed by ENT to diagnose laryngeal pathology. Clinical and service outcomes were collected prospectively. Patients completed an anonymous post‐service satisfaction survey. Results: Of the first 100 patients referred for preoperative VCCs, SLT assessment identified 42 with dysphonia and 30 reporting dysphagia, while ENT confirmed 9 with significant preoperative anatomical findings. Eighty‐three underwent surgery, with 63 (95 nerves at surgical risk) returning for a postoperative VCC. Postoperative VCC identified three temporary neuropraxias (3.2%) and three unilateral vocal fold paresis (3.2%). Patients were highly satisfied with the service. All 163 pre‐/postoperative VCCs were completed with no adverse events. Conclusion & Implications: The current data support SLT‐FPOCC service expansion to include pre and post thyroid/parathyroid surgery VCC checks, with positive consumer perception. The model supports delivery of best practice management (i.e., pre‐ and postoperative VCC) for patients receiving surgery for thyroid/parathyroid dysfunction, and associated efficiencies for ENT services. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known: Assessment of laryngeal function via flexible nasoendoscopy is recommended best practice for patients pre and postthyroid/parathyroid surgery, as recurrent laryngeal nerve injury is a low incidence (<10%), yet well‐recognised risk of these surgeries. Traditionally, general surgeons refer presurgical patients to ear, nose and throat (ENT) for vocal cord check (VCC) assessment. However, with access to specialist outpatient services under increasing pressure, there is growing support for utilisation of other health professionals, such as speech‐language therapists working in first point of contact (FPOCC) models, to assist with the administration of pre‐ and postsurgical assessments of such low‐risk populations. What this study adds: This work expands on the emerging body of evidence for speech language therapy (SLT) led FPOCC models within ENT outpatient services, providing clinical and service outcomes to support the safety of a new model designed to administer VCCs for patients pre and post thyroid/parathyroid surgery. Adopting a similar model to a prior published SLT‐led FPOCC model, the trained SLT completes the pre‐ and postsurgical VCC including flexible nasoendoscopy and videostroboscopy, with images and clinical information then presented to ENT for diagnosis and management planning. This study also provides the first data on consumer perceptions of this type of service model. Clinical implications of this study: Data on 100 consecutive presurgical patients revealed positive service findings, supporting the safety of this model. Nature and incidence of clinical findings pre and post surgery were consistent with previously published studies using traditional models of care (i.e., ENT completing the flexible nasendoscopy). Consumer perception was positive. This model enables delivery of pre‐and postsurgical assessments for patients receiving thyroid/parathyroid surgery, consistent with best practice care, and reduces burden on ENT services. In total 163 ENT appointments were avoided with this model, with positive implications for ENT waitlist management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses the challenges faced in mathematical modeling and controlling COVID-19 epidemics. It highlights the global impact of the pandemic on the economy and health, as well as the uneven effects on different age groups. The availability of vaccines led to mass vaccination campaigns, prompting researchers to implement new strategies and innovative approaches. The document also mentions various journals that have published special issues on COVID-19, covering topics such as forecasting, vaccination strategies, and control measures. The special issue presented in this document consists of eleven papers that analyze clinical characteristics, variant spread, economic recovery, mortality rates, non-pharmaceutical interventions, and coordinated actions. The papers propose mathematical models and control strategies to minimize disease spread and prioritize vaccination. The document emphasizes the multidisciplinary nature of the research, involving fields such as applied mathematics, data science, engineering, biology, and economics. Overall, this special issue provides valuable insights into the mathematical modeling and control of COVID-19 epidemics. [Extracted from the article]

The literature lacks comparisons of analytical and numerical calculations that have been verified experimentally for elastic constants of auxetic cells in cores manufactured from wood materials. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of auxetic cell geometry and the type of material used in their manufacture on elastic properties of the honeycomb panel core. This paper describes properties of the materials, from which core cells were modeled and presents mathematical models of cell properties. The method of numerical optimization of cell shape was specified, and the numerical calculations concerning modeled cells are given along with the course and results of experimental tests. Additionally, the results of analytical, numerical, and experimental tests were compared. Cell geometry had a considerable effect on elastic properties of honeycomb panel cores, particularly the angle of the cell wall. Moreover, geometric imperfections had a significant effect on the results of analytical calculations. Based on numerical calculations, satisfactory consistency between these results and experimental tests was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health education goes a long way in changing people's behavior towards health matters. One of the major roles of health education is the creation of awareness on the "dos" and "don'ts" that pertains to health matters. In northern Nigeria ("north"), many people, particularly in the rural areas, engage in the use of Sakkiya in the treatment of their body swellings. Sakkiya care has been reported repeatedly in the literature to have associated lethal risks on the health of those treated with it. Sakkiya is an act of using a hot pointed metallic tip to puncture a body swelling, with the purpose of achieving a cure. Furthermore, studies had recommended the need for the introduction of community Sakkiya education programs in northern Nigeria to enlightened people on the risks associated with Sakkiya and also inform them about better treatment options. This paper proposes a systematic approach to adopt in organizing an effective community Sakkiya education in the "north". The approach devised in this study was adapted from the Community Action Model (CAM) developed by the Brazilian educationist named Paulo Freire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stochastic cellular automata for rock-paper-scissors games are related to Lotka-Volterra model. Simulations are usually performed by two methods local and global interactions. It is well known that the population dynamics with local interaction is stable, where all species coexist. In contrast, global interaction leads to extinction. So far, theories such as mean-field theory and pair approximation have been presented, but they never explained the stable dynamics in local simulation. In the present article, we apply effective medium approximation (EMA) which has been developed in Physics. The effective medium is determined in a self-consistent way. The EMA theory well predicts the stability of population dynamics. Moreover, it fairly explains the aggregation of each species observed in the stationary state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methodology used for analyzing the survival process should keep in mind heterogeneity in empirical data. Cross-sectional data are more heterogeneous in comparison with birth-cohort data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]