bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyurethane Recycling Through Acidolysis: Current Status and Prospects for the Future
Authors: Gama N. , Godinho B. , Madureira P. , Marques G. , Barros-Timmons A. , Ferreira A.
Published: May 2024

Polyurethane (PU) stands out as a crucial category of polymers which have become indispensable in improving our quality of life, revolutionizing various aspects of human existence. However, this convenience comes with a dark side – the environmental impact associated with its disposal. Nevertheless, recycling presents a promising solution, aligning with the principles of a circular economy by transforming polymer waste into new materials. A notable focus within this realm is the utilization of dicarboxylic acids (DA) as depolymerization agents, achieved through a process known as acidolysis. This method has proven to be an exceptional solution, primarily explored for recycling PU foams and subsequently employed in the production of new foams. The resulting recycled polyol finds successful applications in various PU products, including rigid and flexible foams, adhesives, and coatings. Analyzing the impact of recycled polyol on the properties of new PU products reveals interesting insights. While it slightly affects the morphology and color of foams, there is no significant impact on density or thermal conductivity. Notably, flexible foams exhibit increased stiffness when produced using recycled polyol. Additionally, the strength of PU adhesives and the surface hardness of PU coatings are enhanced with the incorporation of recycled polyol, albeit with a reduction in gloss. The recycled PU coatings also display a more hydrophobic surface. Considering both environmental and economic benefits, the advantages of this approach are evident. With the aim of catering to the needs of both the academic and industrial sectors, this review delves into the subject of PU recycling via acidolysis, subsequently exploring the utilization of recycled materials in the creation of new PU products. The review offers an in-depth explanation of the acidolysis process and thoroughly examines the degradation mechanisms involved. Additionally, it scrutinizes the impact of reaction conditions on the properties of the recycled materials and investigates their applicability in the production of novel materials. Moreover, the review presents an analysis of the environmental and economic implications associated with these processes. In summary, this review overviews the current status of acidolysis of PU and prospects for its future.
Urban Churches Show an Increase in Attendance, Donations, and Finances During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the USA: Evidence from the United Methodist Church
Authors: Niazi Anum G. , Ahmed Nayab , Kifayat Shandana , Kifayat Shanlina , Niazi Mohammad Asad , Khan Muhammad Salar
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on religion and its practice. This paper aims to examine how the pandemic affects religious activities, donations, and finances over time and across regions within the United Methodist Church (UMC) in the USA. To address this question, we analyze survey data collected during the pandemic from 2963 churches in the USA by United Methodist Communications. Our analysis utilizes several quantitative techniques, including Z-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multinomial logistic regressions. The results indicate a decrease in church attendance over time, with a more pronounced effect observed in non-urban areas (suburban, small town, and rural). Similarly, while church donations and finances mitigate over time across churches, churches in urban areas experience a quicker rebound compared to those in non-urban areas. Lastly, we find that church attendance and donations positively affect finances. These findings hold important implications for churches in various regions, offering insights to develop strategies for navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Adult learning and education in the Mediterranean – a view from southern Europe
Authors: Mayo Peter
Published: May 2024

This article examines the key role that adult learning and education (ALE) has played and continues to play in addressing the challenges faced by critical engagement with identities and crossing borders in the Mediterranean region. Despite the great cultural, economic and educational diversities characterising the region, the author explores whether a distinctive and recurring pattern of ALE exists or is likely to emerge. His analysis highlights historical and contemporary landmarks (features) of ALE in the region which exist alongside others from “mainstream” European education put forward by such funding agencies as the European Union (EU). While the landmarks are distinctive, they do offer recurring patterns which are characteristic of social-purpose ALE provision in the region. Much can be drawn from ALE in the Mediterranean, together with useful insights from other parts of the world, to foster intercultural engagement in response to mass migration in the region.
Species richness and ecological connectivity of the mammal communities in urban and peri-urban areas at Mexico City
Authors: Hernández Romero Pablo César , Von Thaden Ugalde Juan J. , Muench Carlos E. , Magaña Rodríguez Diego , del Coro Arizmendi María , Botello Francisco , Prieto-Torres David A.
Published: May 2024

Urban expansion has emerged as a pervasive driver of biodiversity loss in Mexican cities due to shifts in landscape composition and configuration. Hence, the preservation of forest cover, green spaces and isolated trees assume a critical role in conserving the biodiversity within urban areas. We compared mammal assemblages across 520 sites in Mexico City examining the impact of local vegetation and site characteristics (e.g., patch size, isolation distance) on diversity patterns. Then, we used a generalized linear model to evaluate the relationship between mammal assemblages (including both alpha and beta diversities) and the level of structural and functional connectivity across the landscape. We collected 5,063 records of 38 species from the sampled sites. Mammalian richness ranged from 1 to 9 spp./site, and the mean of taxonomic and functional (Functional Distance [MFD]) alpha diversities were 1.9 ± 1.3 spp./site and 0.41 ± 0.60 MFD/site, respectively. The average size of habitat fragments was 0.41 hectares, and the percent forest cover per site ranged from 0.5 to 100%. Both species and functional alpha diversities were different among the land-use and vegetation types (including protected vs. non-protected areas). There was a clear distinction (β value > 0.40) in species composition across the landscape, which was positively related to geographical distance and negatively related to connectivity between sites. We identified four main patches especially important to connectivity across the city and argue that conserving them is critical for restoring key components of biodiversity and ecosystem services in urban and peri-urban areas of Mexico City.
Gamma Irradiated Pasteurella multocida Vaccine induces strong humoral immunity and protects rabbits from disease
Authors: Ahmed Sahar , Nemr Waleed Abdelgaber , El-Shershaby Asmaa , Fouad Ehab Ali Mohamed , Mahmoud Mohamed Abd El-Fatah , Liaqat Fatima , Wijewardana Viskam , Unger Hermann
Published: May 2024

Pasteurella multocida is affecting a multitude of animals and severely affects livestock production. Existing vaccines are mostly chemically inactivated and do not lead to wide protection. Irradiated vaccines are enjoying a renaissance and the concept of “replication defficient but metabolically active” vaccines was recently evaluated in several vaccine trials. P. multocida was isolated from the nasal swab, blood, and lung swab samples from infected rabbits. Gamma irradiation of P. multocida for inhibition of replication was evaluated at an optimized irradiation dose of 10 Kgy established. Four groups of rabbits were (mock) vaccinated with a commercial P. multocida vaccine and three irradiated formulations as liquid, lyophilized formulations with added Trehalose and lyophilized-Trehalose with an “activation” culturing the irradiated bacteria for 24 in broth. Evaluation of humoral immune response by ELISA showed that all three irradiated vaccines produced an effective, protective, and continued IgG serum level after vaccination and bacterial challenge. The IFN-γ expression is maintained at a normal level, within each individual group however, the lyophilized trehalose irradiated vaccine showed peak mean of IFN-γ titer at one week after booster dose (day 21) which was statistically significant. Cumulatively, the results of this study show that gamma-irradiated P. multocida vaccines are safe and protect rabbits against disease. Moreover, Rabbits’ immunization with the three irradiated formulations avoided adverse side effects as compared to commercial polyvalent vaccine, the body weight gain for the irradiated vaccine groups indicates less stress compared to the commercial polyvalent vaccine.
Finite element analysis of a new preoperative traction for cervical kyphosis: suspensory traction
Authors: Chen Hongyu , Wu Tianchi , Pan Shengfa , Zhang Li , Zhao Yanbin , Chen Xin , Sun Yu , Lu William W. , Zhou Feifei
Published: May 2024

A finite element model of cervical kyphosis was established to analyze the stress of cervical spine under suspensory traction and to explore the mechanism and effect of it. A patient with typical cervical kyphosis (C2-C5) underwent CT scan imaging, and 3D slicer was used to reconstruct the C2 to T2 vertebral bodies. The reconstructed data was imported into Hypermesh 2020 and Abaqus 2017 for meshing and finite element analysis. The changes of the kyphotic angle and the von Mises stress on the annulus fibrosus of each intervertebral disc and ligaments were analyzed under suspensory traction conditions. With the increase of suspensory traction weight, the overall kyphosis of cervical spine showed a decreasing trend. The correction of kyphosis was mainly contributed by the change of kyphotic segments. The kyphotic angle of C2-C5 was corrected from 45° to 13° finally. In cervical intervertebral discs, the stress was concentrated to anterior and posterior part, except for C4-5. The stress of the anterior longitudinal ligament (ALL) decreased from the rostral to the caudal, and the high level von Mises stress of the kyphotic segments appeared at C2-C3, C3-C4, and C4-C5. The roles of the other ligaments were not obvious. The kyphotic angle was significantly reduced by the suspensory traction. Shear effect due to the high von Mises stress in the anterior and posterior parts of annulus fibrosus and the tension on the anterior longitudinal ligament play a role in the correction of cervical kyphosis.

Graphical Abstract
Software and hardware realizations for different designs of chaos-based secret image sharing systems
Authors: Sharobim Bishoy K. , Hosam Muhammad , Abd-El-Hafiz Salwa K. , Sayed Wafaa S. , Said Lobna A. , Radwan Ahmed G.
Published: May 2024

Secret image sharing (SIS) conveys a secret image to mutually suspicious receivers by sending meaningless shares to the participants, and all shares must be present to recover the secret. This paper proposes and compares three systems for secret sharing, where a visual cryptography system is designed with a fast recovery scheme as the backbone for all systems. Then, an SIS system is introduced for sharing any type of image, where it improves security using the Lorenz chaotic system as the source of randomness and the generalized Arnold transform as a permutation module. The second SIS system further enhances security and robustness by utilizing SHA-256 and RSA cryptosystem. The presented architectures are implemented on a field programmable gate array (FPGA) to enhance computational efficiency and facilitate real-time processing. Detailed experimental results and comparisons between the software and hardware realizations are presented. Security analysis and comparisons with related literature are also introduced with good results, including statistical tests, differential attack measures, robustness tests against noise and crop attacks, key sensitivity tests, and performance analysis.
Sozio-emotionale Schulerfahrungen von Schüler:innen – Theoretische Grundlagen, methodische Herausforderungen und empirische Befunde
Authors: Schlesier Juliane , Raufelder Diana
Published: May 2024

Soziale Interaktionen und Beziehungen im Schulkontext sind nicht nur einer der wichtigsten Bausteine für gelingende Lehr‑/Lernprozesse, sondern auch zentral für eine gesunde Entwicklung von Schüler:innen. Mit diesen Beziehungen verwoben sind Emotionen von Schüler:innen, welche ebenfalls eng mit dem schulischen Erfolg zusammenhängen und die das Erleben der individuellen Schulrealität maßgeblich prägen. Daher gibt der folgende Stichwortbeitrag einen Überblick über theoretische Grundlagen, methodische Herausforderungen und aktuelle empirische Befunde zu (a) emotionalen Schulerfahrungen, (b) sozialen Beziehungen von Schüler:innen mit Lehrkräften und Peers, (c) der Integration sozialer und emotionaler Schulerfahrungen im Konstrukt des schulischen Wohlbefindens sowie (d) evidenzbasierte schulpraktische Gelingensbedingungen für positive soziale und emotionale Schulerfahrungen von Schüler:innen. Dabei steht vor allem auch die Frage im Fokus, wie man die in der Forschung bislang vorwiegend isoliert betrachteten Konstrukte zukünftig besser miteinander verknüpfen kann. Dazu führen wir nach der Einleitung im zweiten Kapitel zunächst in den Themenkomplex der emotionalen Schulerfahrungen ein und beleuchten dabei insbesondere die Genese und Regulationsprozesse von Emotionen im Unterricht. Anschließend stehen die sozialen Schulerfahrungen von Kindern und Jugendlichen und dabei vor allem die Komplexität des Beziehungsgeflechts und die sich daraus ableitenden theoretischen und empirischen Desiderata im Fokus. Im Weiteren wird das Konstrukt des schulischen Wohlbefindens vorgestellt und aufgezeigt, inwiefern sowohl emotionale als auch soziale Schulerfahrungen darin integriert sind. Wie sozio-emotionale Erfahrungen im Schulkontext gefördert werden können, wird im darauffolgenden dritten Kapitel thematisiert. Abschließend wird in einem Fazit erörtert, wie sozio-emotionale Schulerfahrungen zukünftig in der Forschung durch das Zusammenführen der beiden Forschungsstränge und -traditionen stärker als verwobene Entitäten gefasst werden können.
Effectiveness of dietetic care for cancer survivors in the primary care setting: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ryding Henriette G. , Mitchell Lana J. , Rigby Roshan R. , Ball Lauren , Hobby Julie , Williams Lauren T.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Nutrition plays an important role in cancer survivorship. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to critically assess and quantify the effectiveness of nutrition care interventions provided by dietitians to survivors who have completed treatment for cancer.

Methods

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from January 2004 to November 2023 reporting the effectiveness of primary care dietetic interventions with adult cancer survivors was conducted. PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Embase, ProQuest and PsycINFO databases were searched for key terms. Meta-analyses were conducted where there were sufficient studies of the same cancer type and outcomes.

Results

Twelve RCTs representing 1138 cancer survivors (519 breast cancer; 75 prostate cancer; 544 colorectal cancer) were included. Primary outcome measures included weight loss (n = 6), quality of life (n = 2), reducing lymphedema-related arm volume (n = 2), nutritional status (n = 1) and increasing fruit and vegetable intake (n = 1). Weight loss was observed in studies where this was the primary outcome. Results for quality of life varied. Meta-analyses of RCTs with breast cancer survivors showed that dietitian intervention achieved a mean of 3.7 kg greater intentional weight loss and 2.3% greater body fat decrease than control (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of primary care dietetic interventions by dietitians with cancer survivors, particularly with respect to intentional weight and fat loss in breast cancer survivors.

Implications for cancer survivors

Dietitians can play a key role in managing weight and improving long term health outcomes and prognosis for cancer survivors beyond the acute care setting.
Perceptions on the Ethical and Legal Principles that Influence Global Brain Data Governance
Authors: Ochang Paschal , Eke Damian , Stahl Bernd Carsten
Published: May 2024

Advances in neuroscience and other disciplines are producing large-scale brain data consisting of datasets from multiple organisms, disciplines, and jurisdictions in different formats. However, due to the lack of an international data governance framework brain data is currently being produced under various contextual ethical and legal principles which may influence key stakeholders involved in the generation, collection, processing and sharing of brain data thereby raising ethical and legal challenges. In addition, despite the demand for a brain data governance framework that accounts for culture, there is a gap in empirical research and actions to understand how key stakeholders around the world view these issues using neuroscientists who are affected by these ethical and legal principles. Therefore, using the research question how do ethical and legal principles influence data governance in neuroscience? we attempt to understand the perceptions of key actors on the principles, issues and concerns that can arise from brain data research. We carried out interviews with 21 leading international neuroscientists. The analytical insights revealed key ethical and legal principles, areas of convergence, visibility, and the contextual issues and concerns that arise in brain data research around these principles. These issues and concerns circulate around intimately connected areas which include ethics, human rights, regulations, policies and guidelines, and participatory governance. Also, key contextual insights around animal research and ethics were identified. The research identifies key principles, issues, and concerns that need to be addressed in advancing the development of a framework for global brain data governance. By presenting contextual insights from neuroscientists across regions, the study contributes to informing discussions and shaping policies aimed at promoting responsible and ethical practices in brain data research. The research answers the call for a cross cultural study of global brain data governance and the results of the study will assist in understanding the issues and concerns that arise in brain data governance.
Development and Validation of SCACOMS, a Composite Scale for Assessing Disease Progression and Treatment Effects in Spinocerebellar Ataxia
Authors: L’Italien Gilbert , Popoff Evan , Rogula Basia , Powell Lauren , Potashman Michele , Dickson Sam , O’Keefe Patrick , Beiner Melissa , Coric Vlad , Perlman Susan , Schmahmann Jeremy D. , Hendrix Suzanne
Published: May 2024

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) are rare inherited neurodegenerative disorders characterized by a progressive impairment of gait, balance, limb coordination, and speech. There is currently no composite scale that includes multiple aspects of the SCA experience to assess disease progression and treatment effects. Applying the method of partial least squares (PLS) regression, we developed the Spinocerebellar Ataxia Composite Scale (SCACOMS) from two SCA natural history datasets (NCT01060371, NCT02440763). PLS regression selected items based on their ability to detect clinical decline, with optimized weights based on the item’s degree of progression. Following model validation, SCACOMS was leveraged to examine disease progression and treatment effects in a 48-week SCA clinical trial cohort (NCT03701399). Items from the Clinical Global Impression—Global Improvement Scale (CGI-I), the Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale (FARS) – functional stage, and the Modified Functional Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (f-SARA) were objectively selected with weightings based on their sensitivity to clinical decline. The resulting SCACOMS exhibited improved sensitivity to disease progression and greater treatment effects (compared to the original scales from which they were derived) in a 48-week clinical trial of a novel therapeutic agent. The trial analyses also provided a SCACOMS-derived estimate of the temporal delay in SCA disease progression. SCACOMS is a useful composite measure, effectively capturing disease progression and highlighting treatment effects in patients with SCA. SCACOMS will be a powerful tool in future studies given its sensitivity to clinical decline and ability to detect a meaningful clinical impact of disease-modifying treatments.
Smartphone Use and Mindfulness: Empirical Tests of a Hypothesized Connection
Authors: Woodlief Darren , Taylor Stephen G. , Fuller Morgan , Malone Patrick S. , Zarrett Nicole
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Previous research has shown the capacity for mindfulness to be strongly associated with psychological well-being, that components of mindfulness show significant growth through young adulthood, and that this developing, malleable capacity is vital as individuals learn to deal appropriately with negative thoughts and unwelcome emotions. Smartphones, typically used in an automatic or experientially avoidant way, can undermine this development, leading to a decreased capacity for mindfulness. The purpose of these studies were to examine the extent to which smartphone use is negatively associated with young adults’ mindfulness and the degree to which increased cognitive and behavioral involvement with smartphones may exacerbate this relation using a newly developed conceptual model.

Method

Study 1 was conducted using self-report measures of mindfulness among a cross-sectional sample of university students aged 18–20 years (n = 668). Study 2 augmented Study 1 using objective measures of smartphone screen time and the cognitive regulatory components of mindfulness in a planned missingness design.

Results

Results indicate smartphone involvement (a compulsive pattern of use and cognitive preoccupation with one’s smartphone) to be significantly associated with lower trait mindfulness. Additionally, exploratory analysis of smartphone involvement as a mediator of the effect of smartphone use on mindfulness demonstrated a significant estimated indirect effect.

Conclusion

These results provide preliminary empirical support for the newly proposed conceptual model which posits associations between mindfulness and the use of smartphones in a cognitively and behaviorally involved way.

Preregistration

This study is not preregistered.
Governance hurdles for expansion of low trophic mariculture production in Sweden
Authors: Franzén Frida , Strand Åsa , Stadmark Johanna , Ingmansson Ida , Thomas Jean-Baptiste E , Söderqvist Tore , Sinha Rajib , Gröndahl Fredrik , Hasselström Linus
Published: May 2024

The study examines the governance of low trophic species mariculture (LTM) using Sweden as a case study. LTM, involving species such as seaweeds and mollusks, offers ecosystem services and nutritious foods. Despite its potential to contribute to blue growth and Sustainable Development Goals, LTM development in the EU and OECD countries has stagnated. A framework for mapping governance elements (institutions, structures, and processes) and analyzing governance objective (effective, equitable, responsive, and robust) was combined with surveys addressed to the private entrepreneurs in the sector. Analysis reveals ineffective institutions due to lack of updated legislation and guidance, resulting in ambiguous interpretations. Governance structures include multiple decision-making bodies without a clear coordination agency. Licensing processes were lengthy and costly for the private entrepreneurs, and the outcomes were uncertain. To support Sweden’s blue bioeconomy, LTM governance requires policy integration, clearer direction, coordinated decision-making, and mechanisms for conflict resolution and learning.
Nonnil-FP-injective and nonnil-FP-projective dimensions and nonnil-semihereditary rings
Authors: Haddaoui Younes El , Kim Hwankoo , Mahdou Najib
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we introduce the concept of nonnil-FP-injective dimension for both modules and rings. We explore the characterization of strongly $$\phi $$
ϕ
-rings that have a nonnil-FP-injective dimension of at most one. We demonstrate that, for a nonnil-coherent, strongly $$\phi $$
ϕ
-ring R, the nonnil-FP-injective dimension of R corresponds to the supremum of the $$\phi $$
ϕ
-projective dimensions of specific families of R-modules. We also define self-nonnil-injective rings as $$\phi $$
ϕ
-rings that act as nonnil semi-injective modules over themselves and establish the equivalence between a strongly $$\phi $$
ϕ
-ring R being $$\phi $$
ϕ
-von Neumann regular and R being both nonnil-coherent and self-nonnil semi-injective. Furthermore, we extend the notion of semihereditary rings to $$\phi $$
ϕ
-rings, coining the term ‘nonnil-semihereditary’ to describe rings where every finitely generated nonnil ideal is u-$$\phi $$
ϕ
-projective. We provide several characterizations of nonnil-semihereditary rings through various conceptual lenses. Our study also includes an investigation of the transfer of the nonnil-semihereditary property in trivial ring extensions. Additionally, we define the nonnil-FP-projective dimension for modules and rings, showing that for any strongly $$\phi $$
ϕ
-ring, a nonnil-FP-projective dimension of zero is indicative of the ring being nonnil-Noetherian. We also ascertain that, for a strongly $$\phi $$
ϕ
-ring R, its nonnil-FP-projective dimension is the supremum of the NFP-projective dimensions across different families of R-modules. Lastly, we provide numerous examples to illustrate our results.
Courts and Populist Electoral Politics – the Case of Hungary
Authors: Mécs János
Published: May 2024

Elections are devices, through which the abstract concept of representation gains its specified institutional form, therefore they are highly relevant for populists. The paper examines the illiberal-populist project of redesigning the legal framework of elections in Hungary after 2010, focusing on the role of the Hungarian Constitutional Court (HCC) in reviewing electoral law as well as interacting with the ordinary courts through electoral adjudication. It is argued that although a distinct ‘populist imagination’ (Müller) of elections is discernible, there is no special populist electoral politics, rather the ‘inherent authoritarianism of democracy’ (Pildes) is exacerbated. In Hungary the electoral legislation was shrewdly tailored to the governmental parties’ needs, and electoral politics is constantly subjected to instrumental changes. It is argued that although apex courts could be key players in checking electoral manipulation, the HCC did not protect effectively the integrity of electoral law, and at a later stage it even intervened in an arbitrary and arguably politically biased manner. The paper argues that the Hungarian example underscores the need for enhanced court activism in terms of electoral law, especially when populists already came to power.
Effect of a process interruption on the mechanical properties of AlSi10Mg components produced by laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB/M)
Authors: Moser M. , Brenner S. , Strauß L. , Löwisch G. , Nedeljkovic-Groha V.
Published: May 2024

Due to various causes, process interruptions during powder bed fusion of metal with laser beam (PBF-LB/M) can occur. This can be performed deliberately, e.g. as part of sensor integration or hybrid manufacturing. However, unplanned interruptions are also possible, for example, due to a power outage. In particular, long-term interruptions may result in significant quality losses, making it necessary to cancel the build job. Depending on the extent of the print job and the location of the interruption, this can mean a major economic loss. Most of the previous studies have found only minor reduction of the mechanical properties. However, these studies often dealt with the effect of planned interruptions and relatively short interruptions of about 1 h. Significantly longer interruption times are also realistic, especially when they occur overnight or during weekends. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects on the component quality of a process interruption when the manufacturing process is continued several hours after the interruption. For this purpose, the effects of different interruption durations (1, 4, 10 and 16 h) on the microstructure, hardness, tensile strength and fatigue properties of the PBF-LB/M-fabricated components made of AlSi10Mg were investigated. In addition, the layer shift resulting from the interruption is measured and described geometrically. The results show that for AlSi10Mg specimens in which the layer shift was removed and which are not highly loaded, an unplanned long-term process interruption up to 10 h does not result in a significant loss of quality under the considered conditions. Furthermore, it is apparent that the procedure for restarting the process is very important for the resulting component quality.
Robot-assistive minimally invasive surgery: trends and future directions
Authors: Dagnino Giulio , Kundrat Dennis
Published: May 2024

The evolution of medical technologies—such as surgical devices and imaging techniques—has transformed all aspects of surgery. A key area of development is robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This review paper provides an overview of the evolution of robotic MIS, from its infancy to our days, and envisioned future challenges. It provides an outlook of breakthrough surgical robotic platforms, their clinical applications, and their evolution over the years. It discusses how the integration of robotic, imaging, and sensing technologies has contributed to create novel surgical platforms that can provide the surgeons with enhanced dexterity, precision, and surgical navigation while reducing the invasiveness and efficacy of the intervention. Finally, this review provides an outlook on the future of robotic MIS discussing opportunities and challenges that the scientific community will have to address in the coming decade. We hope that this review serves to provide a quick and accessible way to introduce the readers to this exciting and fast-evolving area of research, and to inspire future research in this field.
Stress resistance enhancing with biochar application and promotion on crop growth
Authors: Chi Wenchen , Nan Qiong , Liu Yuxue , Dong Da , Qin Yong , Li Shengjie , Wu Weixiang
Published: May 2024

Environmental stressors such as drought, salinity, and heavy metals pose significant obstacles to achieving sustainable food security, necessitating the development of universally applicable and cost-effective solutions to ameliorate soil under stress. Biochar, an eco-friendly material to increase crop yield, has been researched for almost two decades and has great potential for global use in enhancing stress resistance. However, there hasn't been comprehensive research on the impact of biochar application on soil properties, and root and crop growth. To optimize and promote biochar application in agriculture under stress, this study integrates over 100 peer-reviewed articles to explain how biochar promotes crop growth by enhancing soil resistance to stress. Biochar's distinctive properties, such as porous structure, alkaline nature, enriched surface functional groups, and nutrient content, are responsible for the following soil environment benefits: improved soil physiochemical properties, increased nutrient cycling, and boosted microbial growth. Moreover, the research emphasizes that the enhanced stress resistance of biochar optimizes nutrient absorption, alleviates soil pollutants, and thereby enhances overall crop productivity. The study discusses the roles and mechanisms of biochar on soil under stress, as well as the challenges linked to the sustainable and economical implementation of biochar in extreme soil conditions. This review aims to provide a theoretical basis for the widespread and cost-effective use of biochar in improving soil under stresses, thereby enhancing soil health and food security.

Graphical Abstract
The Relationship Between the Average Decreased Times of Estradiol and Early Miscarriage: An Observational Study
Authors: Mu Fangxiang , Wang Chen , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Fang
Published: May 2024

Decreased estradiol (E2) levels are associated with early miscarriage (EM), but the relationship between decreased times of E2 and EM has not been reported. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the average decreased times of E2 (ADTE) and EM. Women with a history of miscarriage were retrospectively recruited from the Reproductive Center of Lanzhou University Second Hospital (Lanzhou, China) between September 2019 and February 2022. Based on pregnancy outcome, they were divided into ongoing pregnancy group (n = 359) and EM group (n = 104). In addition, subgroup analyses were performed for the number of previous miscarriages and whether E2 levels decreased continuously. The exposure and outcome variables were ADTE and miscarriage before 12 weeks of gestation, respectively. Totally, 1171 patients were recruited and 463 patients were finally analyzed. ADTE was associated with EM (odds ratio [OR] = 1.346, 95% confidence interval [CI]1.154-1.571, P < 0.001). When ADTE ≥ 2.5, the EM risk increased 1.17-fold compared to patients with 0-1.249 times (OR = 2.170, 95% CI 1.144-4.117, P = 0.018). Moreover, a threshold effect existed in the ADTE and the risk of EM with a value of 4.9 times. When exceeding 4.9 times, the EM risk increased 4.713-fold for each increased unit (OR = 5.713, 95% CI 1.255-23.170, P = 0.024). Subgroup analysis showed that ADTE had a greater effect on the occurrence of EM in women with a history of 1-2 miscarriages than in women with 3 miscarriages. Decreased E2 was a risk factor for EM regardless of whether it dropped continuously or not. In conclusion, our study identifies a potential link between ADTE and early miscarriage risk in women with prior miscarriages, yet cautious interpretation is necessary due to inherent design limitations. Further research with prospective designs and large population samples is essential to validate ADTE's utility as a predictive indicator for early miscarriage in clinical settings.
A taxonomic revision of Chotoy spinetail Schoeniophylax phryganophilus
Authors: Berryman Alex J. , Kirwan Guy M.
Published: May 2024

Chotoy spinetail Schoeniophylax phryganophilus is widely distributed in southern and eastern South America. What was believed to be a geographically disjunct population was described, as S. p. petersi, from eastern Brazil, in the valley of the Rio São Francisco, in northern Minas Gerais and western Bahia, based on comparatively minor plumage characters (chiefly colour and strength of the streaking). Its range was subsequently believed to extend to the northeast Brazilian state of Piauí. We analysed a total of 91 specimens of Schoeniophylax (74 S. p. phryganophilus, 17 S. p. petersi) for external morphology (plumage and biometrics), and 27 recordings of the species’ main song (22 S. p. phryganophilus and five S. p. petersi). We found no evidence to support intraspecific geographical variation, which is unsurprising in the light of vastly increased fieldwork that has removed any obvious disjunction in the distribution of Schoeniophylax, and we therefore recommend that the species be returned to monotypy.
Injective Treatments for Sacroiliac Joint Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ruffilli A. , Cerasoli T. , Barile F. , Manzetti M. , Viroli G. , Traversari M. , Filardo G. , Faldini C.
Published: May 2024

Background

The most effective injective treatment approach for sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain remains unclear. Aim of this study was to quantify the safety and effectiveness of the available injective strategies to address SIJ pain.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases from inception until January 2023. Inclusion criteria were studies written in English, comparative and non-comparative studies regardless of the minimum follow-up, and case series on SIJ injections. Safety and efficacy of the different injection therapies for the SIJ were quantified. A meta-analysis was conducted on the available data of the documented injective therapies. The “Checklist for Measuring Quality” by Downs and Black was used to assess the risk of bias and the quality of papers.

Results

The literature search retrieved 43 papers (2431 patients): 16 retrospective case series, 2 retrospective comparative studies, 17 prospective case series, 3 prospective comparative studies, and 5 randomized controlled trials. Of the selected studies, 63% examined the effect of steroid injections, 16% of PRP injections, while 21% reported other heterogeneous treatments. The failure rate was 26% in steroid injections and 14% in PRP injections. The meta-analysis showed a statistically significant reduction in pain with the VAS score for both steroids and PRP: steroids improvement at mid-term 3.4 points (p < 0.05), at long-term 3.0 (p < 0.05), PRP improvement at mid-term 2.2 (p = 0.007), at long-term 2.3 points of the VAS pain scale (p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Steroids are the most documented injective approach, with studies showing an overall safety and effectiveness. Still, the high number of failures underlined by some studies suggest the need for alternative procedures. Early PRP data showed promise, but the limitations of the current literature do not allow to clearly define the most suitable injective approach, and further studies are needed to identify the best injective treatment for SIJ patients.
Manifest Destiny in Southeast Asia: Archaeology of American Colonial Industry in the Philippines, 1898–1987
Authors: Meyer-Lorey Robin , Acabado Stephen
Published: May 2024

At the turn of the twentieth century, American logging companies backed by the US colonial regime initiated extensive extraction in Bikol, Philippines. Industrial infrastructure and the involvement of a newly assembled Bikolano workforce left a profound imprint on the region's landscape. This article discusses a collaborative archaeological project that used archival materials, place-name analysis, ethnographic interviews, discussions with local scholars, satellite mapping, and drone-mounted lidar scans of former industrial sites. Findings shed light on the enduring ramifications of American logging in the early 1900s on settlement patterns, the infrastructure of routes and mobility, the state of industries from Philippine independence in 1946 through the 1980s, and ongoing environmental hazards. These findings emphasize the legacy of American empire, reveal the role of Filipino logging workers in shaping the landscape through settlement decisions, and uncover intricate connections across a pan-Pacific American colonial frontier that was shaped by both extractive and settler colonialism. This article adds to an emerging trend in Americanist archaeology in which archaeology investigates recent historical and even contemporary events.
The Role of Forecasts in Planning for Energy Infrastructure: A Historical Look at Past Futures in Postwar Quebec
Authors: Hatton-Proulx Clarence
Published: May 2024

Forecasts play a central role in the development of energy infrastructure. Since building energy infrastructure is long and costly, energy system planners try to anticipate future demand to avoid both shortages and overcapacity. But energy demand forecasts aren’t neutral: they represent a certain vision of the future that forecasters hope to bring into being. This article uses a historical case study to open the black box of forecasting and the world it contains. It studies electricity demand forecasts made by Hydro-Québec, one of the biggest industrial firms in North America, from the 1960s to the 1980s. Based on linear extrapolation models forecasting exponential demand and endless growth, the state-owned firm embarked on huge hydroelectric megaprojects with deep consequences on the environment and Indigenous lands. The energy crisis of the 1970s, by disturbing energy systems, led to criticism from the provincial government and civil society towards Hydro-Québec’s bullish forecasts that justified its expansionist agenda. This uncertain context favored other methods of predicting the future, like scenario analysis, and brought scrutiny towards the hydroelectric powerhouse’s business. At the crossroads of business history, energy history, and science and technology studies, the article argues that energy forecasts are used by actors like energy suppliers and governments to produce and project power relations onto the future. They become performative when powerful interests coalesce around their vision of the future to implement it.
Microaggression Accountability: Blameworthiness, Blame, and Why it Matters
Authors: Jones Lel
Published: May 2024

Despite the broad agreement that microaggressions cause harm, there is disagreement on how to capture microaggressor's accountability. Friedlaender (2018) argues that, in many cases, survivors of microaggressions are not justified in holding the microaggressor blameworthy or blaming them (Friedlaender 2018, 14). I argue, in contrast, that we are generally justified in holding most microaggressors blameworthy and blaming them. By adopting a broadly blame-inclusive account of microaggressor accountability, we are in a position to satisfy the desiderata an ideal account should meet: (1) account for cumulative harm; (2) consistently allow for standing to forgive; and (3) be risk sensitive to the microaggressed. By possessing these virtues, I believe my view of microaggressor accountability better equips us to take seriously the harm caused by microaggressions and center the well-being of microaggressees. I respond to Friedlaender's concerns regarding epistemic ignorance and what they call the disaggregation problem. In contrast to Friedlaender's broadly blame-exclusive responsibility model, I motivate a broadly blame-inclusive model for holding microaggressors accountable, explaining how it fulfills the desiderata. I respond to the objection that my account is too blame-inclusive by providing examples of (1) justified microaggressions; (2) excused microaggressions; and (3) blameworthiless microaggressions where blame is justified all the same.
Modelling the passive breakup of a surfactant-contaminated droplet in a T-junction microchannel
Authors: Zhang Jinggang , Wang Yongguang , Chen Li , Shen Linjun , Cui Haihang
Published: May 2024

A lattice Boltzmann method is used to explore the effect of surfactants on the unequal volume breakup of a droplet in a T-junction microchannel, and the asymmetry due to fabrication defects in real-life microchannels is modelled as the pressure difference between the two branch outlets (

$\Delta {P^\ast }$

). We first study the effect of the surfactants on the droplet dynamics at different dimensionless initial droplet lengths (

$l_0^\ast $

) and capillary numbers (Ca) under symmetric boundary conditions (

$\Delta {P^\ast } = 0$

). The results indicate that the presence of surfactants promotes droplet deformation and breakup at small and moderate

$l_0^\ast $

values, while the surfactant effect is weakened at large

$l_0^\ast $

values. When the branch channels are completely blocked by the droplet, a linear relationship is observed between the dimensionless droplet length (

$l_d^\ast $

) and dimensionless time (

${t^\ast }$

), and two formulas are proposed for predicting the evolution of

$l_d^\ast $

with

${t^\ast }$

for the two systems. We then investigate the effect of the surfactants on the droplet breakup at different values of

$\Delta {P^\ast }$

and bulk surfactant concentrations (

${\psi _b}$

) under asymmetric boundary conditions (

$\Delta {P^\ast } \ne 0$

). It is observed that, as

$\Delta {P^\ast }$

increases, the volume ratio of the generated droplets (

${V_1}/{V_2}$

) decreases to 0 in both systems, while the rate of decrease is higher in the clean system, i.e. the presence of surfactants could cause a decreased pressure difference between the droplet tips. As

${\psi _b}$

increases,

${V_1}/{V_2}$

first increases rapidly, then remains almost constant and finally decreases slightly. We thus establish a phase diagram that describes the

${V_1}/{V_2}$

variation with

$\Delta {P^\ast }$

and

${\psi _b}$

.
Detecting linguistic variation with geographic sampling
Authors: Koile Ezequiel , Moroz George
Published: May 2024

Geolectal variation is often present in settings where one language is spoken across a vast geographic area. This can be found in phonological, morphosyntactic, and lexical features. For practical reasons, it is not always possible to conduct fieldwork in every single location of interest in order to obtain the full pattern of variation, and a sample of them must be chosen. We propose and test a method for sampling these locations, with the goal of obtaining a distribution of typological features representative of the whole area. We apply k-means and hierarchical clustering algorithms for defining this sample, based on their geographic distribution. We test our methods against simulated data with several spatial configurations, and also against real data from Circassian dialects (Northwest Caucasian). Our results show an efficiency significantly higher than random sampling for detecting this variation, which makes our method profitable to fieldworkers when designing their research.
Time for Parliament to act? The PACCAR decision of the UK Supreme Court
Authors: Peyer Sebastian
Published: May 2024

Litigation funding has become an essential ingredient in collective actions for breaches of competition law brought in the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT). In the recent PACCAR proceedings, the Supreme Court was asked to rule on the nature and enforceability of litigation funding agreements (LFAs) between third-party litigation funders and group representatives where the success fee is determined as a percentage of the damages award.1 The Court held with a 4:1 majority (Lady Rose dissenting)2 that the LFAs in question are damages-based fee agreements (DBAs) and, as such, unenforceable. This judgment has wide-ranging consequences, as the CAT is unlikely to allow collective actions to proceed if the funding agreements cannot be relied on. The decision has caused uncertainty and upheaval in the funding market as a considerable number of funding agreements in collective proceedings contain DBAs. It also triggered legal challenges in collective proceedings where funders are seeking to amend the funding agreements to deal with the Supreme Court ruling.3 The fall-out from the decision suggests that funding rules for collective actions may need more legislative attention – litigation funding was given some thought during the drafting of the opt-out action regime, but the legal framework for litigation funding remains fragmented and open to interpretation.4