bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Assessment of Some Count Data Models to Immunization Coverage Data
Authors: Aliyu Usman , Usman Umar , Bashar Abubakar , Faruk Daha
Published: December 2024

This research evaluates the performance of various count data models, including Poisson Regression (PR), Zero-Inflated Poisson Regression (ZIP), Zero-Truncated Poisson Regression (ZTP), Truncated Negative Binomial Poisson Regression (TNBP), and Negative Binomial Poisson Regression (NBP), using immunization coverage data from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). The study focuses on children under 12 months, assessing model fit using Likelihood Ratio (LR), Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) criteria. Analysis conducted with STATA indicates that the Truncated Negative Binomial Poisson Regression (TNBP) outperformed other models in fit and efficiency. Both the ZTeeP and TNBP models demonstrated the best fit, with lower AIC (1959.107) and BIC (2037.649) values and higher Pseudo R-squared values (0.0677 for ZTP and 0.0590 for TNBP), compared to standard models. Age was identified as a significant predictor, negatively associated with immunization status, implying that older infants in the under-12-month category are less likely to receive all vaccinations. The ZTP model showed significant positive effects for antigens such as HepB0, OPV0, BCG, and Measles, with age having a significant negative association. The findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate statistical models for accurate public health data analysis, enhancing decision-making in immunization programs.
Decreased serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels may reflect disease severity of acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Liu Chuan-Peng , Zheng Su , Zhang Ping , Chen Guang-Hui , Zhang Yuan-Yuan , Sun Hui-Lin , Peng Li
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the levels of solute carrier family seven number 11 (SLC7A11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in the serum of patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) and their relationship with disease severity.

Methods

A total of 148 patients with AIS together with 148 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. The expression levels of SLC7A11 and GPX4 in serum were detected immediately as early as possible. Radiographic severity was detected by Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS). Disease severity was evaluated using modified Rankin Scale (mRS). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression levels were also measured. A correlation analysis was conducted to determine the relationship between the expression levels of SLC7A11 and GPX4 with the clinical severity of the disease and the levels of hs-CRP and MMP-9. Furthermore, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was utilized to assess the potential of SLC7A11 and GPX4 as diagnostic markers.

Results

Compared to the HC group, the serum expression levels of SLC7A11 and GPX4 were significantly lower in the AIS group. Serum SLC7A11 levels were positively associated with serum GPX4 levels. The AIS group included 50 patients with mild neurological impairment, 52 with moderate neurological impairment, and 46 with severe neurological impairment. AIS patients with mild neurological impairment had drastically higher serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels compared with those with moderate neurological impairment. AIS patients with moderate neurological impairment showed significantly higher serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 concentrations compared with those with severe neurological impairment. ROC curve analysis demonstrated that both serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 may both act as potential indicators for evaluating of AIS disease severity. In addition, both serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels were positively correlated with ASPECTS. Both serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels were negatively associated with hs-CRP as well as MMP-9 levels. Serum SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels were significantly increased following comprehensive therapy.

Conclusions

Decreased SLC7A11 and GPX4 levels may reflect disease severity of AIS.
The variability of measured and calculated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in statin-treated diabetes patients
Authors: Kilpatrick Eric S , Kallner Anders , Atkin Stephen L , Sathyapalan Thozhukat
Published: December 2024

Background

The Sampson-NIH and Martin-Hopkins low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) equations are advocated as being superior to the Friedewald calculation. However, their mathematical complexity means they may have different biological and analytical variation when tracking LDL-C in the same patient. This study has established the biological variation (BV) of calculated and directly measured LDL-C (dLDL-C) in patients taking equivalent doses of a long (atorvastatin) and short (simvastatin) half-life statin. It also modelled how analytical imprecision might add to these BVs.

Methods

In a crossover study of lipid BV involving 26 patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) initially taking either simvastatin 40 mg or atorvastatin 10 mg, fasting lipids were measured 10 times over 5 weeks after a 3 month run-in. The same procedure was then followed for the alternate statin. Outlier removal and CV-ANOVA established the BV of dLDL and each formula. Analytical measurement uncertainty was estimated from 6 months of real-world data.

Results

The intra-individual BV of dLDL-C measurement was considerably lower with atorvastatin than simvastatin (CV 1.3%(95% CI 1.1–1.5%) vs. 11.1%(10.2–12.2%), respectively). No equation could distinguish this difference (Friedewald 11.0%(95% CI 10.0–12.1%) vs. 12.9%(11.8–14.2%), Sampson-NIH 10.4%(9.5–11.5%) vs. 11.7% (10.7–12.8%) and Martin-Hopkins 9.3%(8.5–10.3%) vs. 11.3%(10.3–12.4%)). Real-world analytical CVs were 2.6% (Sampson-NIH), 2.6% (Martin-Hopkins) 2.8% (Friedewald) and 2.0% (dLDL-C).

Conclusions

Inherent biological LDL-C variability using these formulae is substantially greater than direct measurement in T2DM patients taking atorvastatin. Typical analytical imprecision was also greater. Together, this may fundamentally limit these equations’ ability to track true LDL-C changes in patients taking popular statin treatments.
Public–private sector wage gaps in Australia: Extent, trends and gender
Authors: Birch Elisa , Preston Alison
Published: December 2024

Using panel data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey, this paper analyses the wage gap between the public and private sectors in Australia from 2001 to 2022. The analysis is conducted at both the national and state levels. We found that, since 2014, the public-sector wage premium (nationally) has increased for women but decreased for men, with women's outcomes driving current trends. Additionally, the public-sector wage premium varies significantly across states, indicating that state-level wage-setting forces are more influential than national ones. Our trend analysis reveals that the premium is neither consistently procyclical nor countercyclical. Furthermore, quantile analysis shows that the premium fluctuates across the wage distribution, though not in a uniform pattern over time.
Guillain-Barré syndrome after treatment with anti-tumour necrosis factor α (etanercept) in a rheumatoid arthritis patient: Case report and literature review
Authors: Doden Mera H. , Manasra Mahmoud R. , AbuIrayyeh Bara M. , Al-Ihribat Alaa R. , Albandak Maram
Published: December 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is often treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNF-α) medications. While these drugs can cause common side effects such as injection-site and infusion reactions, rare cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) have been reported. It's a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by progressive, ascending weakness of the extremities and areflexia, with an incidence of about 1.5 cases per 100,000 annually and a mortality rate of around 5%. It has been linked to various triggers, including infections, vaccinations, and medications like TNF inhibitors. Anti-TNF-α treatments may induce GBS by activating latent infections, increasing susceptibility, triggering autoimmune responses, or disrupting the balance of TNF-α in the peripheral nervous system. We report a 39-year-old female with a 26-year history of RA, initially treated with methotrexate until it was discontinued due to myelosuppression. She was then prescribed etanercept. A few weeks later, she developed numbness and burning pain in her limbs. GBS was suspected based on her symptoms, and nerve conduction studies confirmed the diagnosis. She was successfully treated with plasmapheresis.
Examining Variation in Survey Costs Across Surveys
Authors: Olson Kristen , Stevenson John , Assad Nadia , Witt-Swanson Lindsey , Jones Cameron P.E. , Ganshert Amanda , Dykema Jennifer
Published: December 2024

Self-administered surveys may be administered with a single mode or mixed data collection modes. How mixing modes of data collection affects survey costs is not well understood. We examine whether cost structures differ for mail-only versus web+mail mixed-mode surveys, what design features are associated with costs, and whether survey costs are associated with response rates. Using administrative survey cost data from two academic survey centers, we find that survey costs per sampled unit and per complete vary substantially across individual surveys. The average cost per sampled unit is surprisingly similar across mail-only and web+mail surveys. How the budget is allocated across printing, postage, incentive, and staff time varies across these designs: printing and postage costs are higher in mail-only surveys, and more of the budget is allocated to incentive costs and project management costs in web+mail surveys. Furthermore, higher cost surveys are associated with higher response rates, particularly for incentive costs.
What’s Your Damage? Assessing the Harms of Sexual Harassment From the Perspective of the Victim and the Accused
Authors: Taylor Alice , Taylor Joshua
Published: December 2024

This article begins with a simple question: why are the damages awarded to victims of sexual harassment so much lower than damages awarded for those defamed by false allegations of sexual harassment? This article undertakes a comparative analysis of the underlying rationales for awarding damages in the doctrines of sexual harassment and defamation, tracking the historical reasons why sexual harassment damages have traditionally been so low compared to other doctrines. Then, it directly analyses two cases which awarded some of the highest damages in their respective doctrines: Rush v Nationwide News Pty Ltd and Hughes v Hill. This analysis reveals how the ongoing effect that traditional factors inhibiting sexual harassment damages, such as gender stereotyping and the requirement to medicalise damages, results in ongoing discrepancies in the damages awarded between both doctrines. This article suggests a simple solution: applying similar rationales for assessing damages in defamation to sexual harassment decisions.
Rising to the Occasion—How Community College Faculty Adjust Instructional Approaches and Student Supports Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Zhu Xiwei , Wang Xueli
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study explores how community college faculty adjust their instructional approaches and student supports amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: This research drew on a basic qualitative approach to analyze 18 semi-structured interviews with faculty teaching math or math-heavy courses at two institutions. Results: Our findings add to the research literature on community college students’ learning experiences, faculty teaching practices, and emergency remote teaching. Our analysis revealed five themes: (a) Community college faculty ensured and maintained continuity and minimized disruptions in student learning; (b) they humanized teaching and student support without centering their personal struggles; (c) they deepened community building to foster a sense of connection among students; (d) they empowered students in both mindset and practices to keep them engaged; and (e) they viewed the crisis as a learning opportunity to inform future instructional approaches and student services long after the pandemic. Contribution: Our study reveals a change model that captures the holistic and humanizing nature of faculty efforts to inform the future of teaching and learning in community colleges. In addition, our findings unveil some of the most critical components for faculty and institutions to consider when preparing for future crisis management and preparation.
The Multi-Stage Mixed Methods Framework: A new research design to combine hypothesis development and hypothesis testing and to embed machine learning and practitioner engagement in the social sciences
Authors: Fontana Giuditta , Kartsonaki Argyro , Neudorfer Natascha S , Wolff Stefan
Published: December 2024

Multi-methods research designs typically focus either on developing or on testing pre-existing hypotheses. We outline a new methodological framework to combine hypothesis development and testing into a coherent and robust multi-method research design: the Multi-Stage Mixed-Methods Framework (MSMMF). The MSMMF is a novel approach to carefully sequence and combine different methods, such as machine learning (ML), practitioner engagement, inferential statistical analysis, qualitative comparative analysis, process-tracing and/or congruence analysis. We demonstrate that the MSMMF provides a holistic research design for developing and testing hypotheses, combining the strengths of existing mixed-methods approaches and embedding ML and the involvement of practitioners throughout the research process. We present the MSMMF’s application to a theoretically challenging, empirically rich and policy-relevant question: Why do some peace processes bring an end to large-scale conflict-related violence while others do not?
Leaders of Many: Alternative Models of Coaching a Just Future
Authors: Leonard David J. , Richard King C.
Published: December 2024

Through examining the courageous activism and righteous agitation of Dawn Staley and conclusion examines the potential and possibilities of a new coaching future. It reflects on leadership, the politics of sport, and the power that a coach could play, one that is rarely seen inside football.
From Policy to Reality: Examining the Rippling Effects of Return Migration Governance in Nigeria
Authors: Schreier Simona
Published: December 2024

In the global effort to address irregular migration, leaders from Africa and Europe collaborate to implement policies aimed at enabling the safe return and reintegration of migrants. Nigeria played a vital role as a regional partner in this effort, as highlighted in the 2015 Valletta Summit. However, challenges faced by returnees, including violence, job scarcity, and limited resources, demonstrate that these policies are not without difficulties. This article examines the expanding return migration industry in Nigeria, its connections to EU border policies, and its socioeconomic and political impacts. Through empirical analysis, the study explores the roles of different actors in facilitating return and reintegration processes, including governmental bodies, intermediaries such as the International Organization for Migration and the lesser known German Society for International Cooperation, and local civil society organizations. The analysis reveals the rippling effects of return and reintegration policies, including the establishment of new industries and services, changes in governance and organizational frameworks, and notable economic and spatial transformations. Key issues examined include the influence of corruption, the role of international organizations like the International Organization for Migration, and the experiences of returnees and local civil society groups. The article concludes by calling for the decolonization of migration governance, enhanced transparency and accountability, and the centering of returnees’ voices and perspectives to develop more equitable and responsive interventions.
Investigating the Relationship Between Language Exposure and Explicit and Implicit Language Attitudes Towards Welsh and English
Authors: Gruffydd Ianto , Tamburelli Marco , Breit Florian , Bagheri Hamidreza
Published: December 2024

Positive attitudes toward regional/minority languages are an essential precondition to language maintenance/revitalization. We investigate implicit and explicit attitudes toward Welsh and English and their relationship with childhood and adolescent age exposure among adult Welsh speakers from northwest Wales. Results indicate that implicit and explicit attitude constructs diverge and therefore bear differentially on language maintenance/revitalization. Specifically, comparing speaker data from the Language and Social Background Questionnaire with results from two independent studies, employing the Attitudes towards Languages (AToL) Scale and an Implicit Association Task respectively, we show that the implicit measure reveals a positive correlation between attitudes and exposure in primary school age. Conversely, the AToL returned no statistically significant factors, suggesting differential sensitivity of the explicit and implicit measures. We argue that an understanding of both types of attitude constructs, and attending to exposure levels especially as they relate to intergenerational transmission, is necessary to implement an effective language maintenance/revitalization strategy.
The rehabilitation industry: Lived experience and performance
Authors: Brierley Andrew , Dennehy Max
Published: December 2024

We approach this essay through a unique observation of being on both sides of the criminal justice system as prisoners and drugs addicts to transitioning into professionals and educators within and around the criminal justice system. We argue that the concept of rehabilitation has – through the neo-liberal capitalist social system – evolved into a Rehabilitation Industry. The essay argues that by defining the concept of the Rehabilitation Industry, society can ask critical questions of how social media, marketing, branding, the public facing performance as well as the dubious claims of rehabilitation is taking place. The principal argument within the essay is that, although often obscured, a fusion of the contemporary digital landscape and capitalism is creating a criminal justice system that harms justice involved people, whilst simultaneously the industry of ‘rehabilitation’ generates a multitude of capitals – economic, cultural, and political – for a whole range of stakeholders – not least those of us with ‘lived experience’ now occupying the justice reform stage.
Design thinking and rare book repository development
Authors: Jarusawat Piyapat
Published: December 2024

Electronic rare book repository development provides users with convenient and practical accessibility, and may lead to future frontier research. This study aims to design and develop a rare book repository using the concept of Design Thinking and to assess the rare book repository system of the national library in Thailand. Ratchamangkhalaphisek National Library Chiang Mai was chosen as the case study here because of the uniqueness of its rare book characteristics - palm leaf manuscripts - and because of its lack of an online portal for rare books. The Design Thinking concept of Stanford d.school was applied in this research and development study (R and D research) in order to develop a more effective rare book repository. Interview forms and evaluation were used as the research tools to collect data. The results show that the overall satisfaction level of the users was at a high level in terms of content and at a very high level in terms of system. That is because the menu is well-designed, easy to use, and can be easily viewed. Moreover, the information searching system is accurate according to user needs. The concept of Design Thinking, in the way that it focuses on human-centered design, creates a system that answers the users’ requirements, as well as generates new perspectives. Also, the Design Thinking concept might be applied to other processes in the system development cycle since it could enhance the efficiency of a rare book repository system and be appropriate to the needs of users.
Fabrication and evaluation of composite diamond coated milling cutters
Authors: Shen Rui , Shen Yi , Liu Dongdong , Sun Fanghong
Published: December 2024

Advantages from various diamond coatings can be fully utilised by constructing a composite structure. However, the composite coating containing microcrystalline diamond (MCD) and nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) is prone to interface delamination, due to the distinct interfaces between layers. In this paper, fine-grained diamond (FGD) is introduced into composite diamond coatings to eliminate obvious interfaces of diamond layers. Various monolayer diamond coatings (MCD, FGD, NCD) and composite diamond coatings (MCD/FGD, MCD/NCD, MCD/FGD/NCD) were prepared on cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co) substrates adopting hot filament chemical vapour deposition (HFCVD) method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) morphologies of differing diamond coatings were observed, revealing no distinct interfaces between the layers of MCD/FGD/NCD coating. Surface roughness of differing coatings was obtained, with MCD/FGD/NCD coating exhibiting lower surface roughness than other composite coatings. X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra of differing coatings were studied, indicating various composite diamond coatings exhibit high crystal quality. Raman spectra together with residual stress of these samples were analyzed, indicating that FGD layer contributes to a reduction of residual stress. Friction tests were conducted, demonstrating that MCD/FGD/NCD coating shows lower coefficient of friction (COF) than other composite coatings. Milling experiments on high-silicon aluminum alloy were executed for thoroughly evaluating the cutting performance of these coated cutters, revealing that MCD/FGD/NCD coated milling cutter performs outstanding cutting performance because of good interfacial integrity, superior surface smoothness, and low residual stress.
Harmonic expectancy violations: Testing the effects of familiarity, lead-in time, and ecological validity
Authors: Arthur Claire
Published: December 2024

In this article, the impact of three experimental parameters in a harmonic expectancy study are evaluated: stimulus duration (specifically the lead-in time prior to an unexpected event), ecological validity of the stimulus (original recording vs. piano only), and familiarity. This article also presents a novel experimental paradigm for detecting expectancy violations in a real-time listening context with increased ecological validity, as well as a novel quasi-blind stimulus-selection procedure. Results suggest that the importance of the ecological validity of the stimulus may depend on the population of the study (i.e., musicians or non-musicians), and that the role of familiarity ought to be more rigorously examined. Specifically, it appears that the ability to notice a harmonic expectancy violation may be modulated by the degree of prior familiarity with the stimulus. In addition, stimuli with longer lead-in times lead to an increase in the probability of marking a harmonically surprising event. Implications for expectancy-violation theory, computational modeling, prediction error theory, and general stimulus-selection procedures in music perception and cognition research are discussed.
International influence over Japanese libraries before World War II
Authors: Inoue Yasuyo
Published: December 2024

Around the establishment of the Japan Library Association (JLA) in 1907, several library associations were active in Japan. Japanese librarians were often sent abroad to observe and study library practices, attend international conferences, and receive professional library education. Others went overseas to teach Japanese language and culture, collecting Japanese books and materials for educational purposes and managing them as area study librarians. Additionally, many political and business figures participated in international library activities. This paper explores the motivations behind the involvement of Japanese individuals in international library activities and conferences before World War II, shedding light on the historical context and the key figures who acted as bridges between Japanese and international librarianship.
Effects of antioxidants on skin hydration, inflammatory cytokines, and keratinocyte differentiation markers in a PM10-exposed skin barrier–disrupted mouse model
Authors: Kim Jin Ho , Kwack Mi Hee , Lee Weon Ju
Published: December 2024

Given that particulate matter (PM) has an established role in inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and skin aging, it is plausible that PM could exacerbate inflammatory skin conditions such as xerosis. Xerosis represents a significant dermatological concern among older adults within aging populations. We conducted an investigation into the efficacy of antioxidants, such as dieckol, punicalagin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and resveratrol, against PM10 in a skin barrier–disrupted mouse model. A skin barrier–disrupted mouse model was induced by tape stripping. This study investigated the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of antioxidants on PM-induced changes using the skin barrier–disrupted mouse model. Tape strips were attached to the back of 7-week-old nude mice and removed quickly. To investigate variations in skin hydration, levels of inflammatory cytokines, and indicators of keratinocyte differentiation, mice underwent treatment with several compounds: a control vehicle (100 μL), PM10 100 μL (100 μg/mL), PM10 100 μL (100 μg/mL) with antioxidants 100 μL (Punicalagin 5 μM, Dieckol 5 μM, EGCG 1 μM, resveratol 1 μM) for 1 week. To assess their effects, different analysis were conducted using measurements of skin moisture, real-time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for detecting inflammatory cytokines, and immunofluorescence staining to identify markers of keratinocyte differentiation. While PM10 decreased water content in disrupted skin, all antioxidants preserved skin hydration in the skin barrier–disrupted mice, regardless of the presence of PM10. All antioxidants also inhibited the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and normalized the downregulation of keratinocyte differentiation markers against PM10 in skin barrier–disrupted mice. This study elucidated the protective effects of antioxidants-namely, punicalagin, dieckol, EGCG, and resveratrol-in mitigating the impact of PM10 on skin barrier integrity and inflammation in a disrupted skin barrier mouse model, highlighting their potential utility in dermatological treatments.
The twist of the institution: Arnold Gehlen on the concept and the ethics of the state
Authors: Magerski Christine
Published: December 2024

This paper aims at transforming the nexus institution–passivity into a vibrant interrelation. With this goal on my mind, I will refer to Arnold Gehlen and his controversial discussion of the state as the most powerful institution that offers an analysis not only of the complexity of institutions but also of the genuinely paradoxical nature of the institution. Seen from the perspective of philosophical anthropology, institutions are, on the one hand, inextricably intertwined with restriction and passivity, but, on the other hand, the restriction and passivity fostered by the institution must be understood as the pre-condition of an action and therefore as a force of freedom. In order to outline this thought, the paper focusses on Gehlen's last book Moral und Hypermoral (1969) and presents the institution of the state as a social-political form from which a critique – that is, a rethinking of the concept of the institution – could start.
Equipping Disciplers (Part 2): Equippers’ Role in Victorian Baptist Churches
Authors: Botross Peter
Published: December 2024

Part 2 of 2. This series of articles seeks to present a coherent pedagogical framework for equipping disciplers in local congregations. Part 2 examines the role of equippers—those entrusted with preparing disciplers within local churches. Although gifted leaders are assigned the role of equipping the saints, there appears to be a discernible deficiency in their pedagogic methodologies, rendering them less efficacious in fulfilling their responsibilities. This article advocates for an intricate role definition for these equippers, predicated on an amalgamation of biblical and pedagogical foundations. This study was conducted within the delimited context of Baptist churches in Victoria, Australia.
Why Cooperation in Volunteer Work Can Fail Despite the Best Intentions: Conflicting Ideas in Narrations From Volunteers
Authors: Kewes Andreas , Müller Moritz , Munsch Chantal
Published: December 2024

This article provides an analysis of narratives about day-to-day cooperation between volunteers. It shows what challenges there are to cooperation, even when those involved share the same objectives and want to cooperate. Our analysis of the narrative interviews revealed two contrasting ideas volunteers have about cooperation: The first idea likens cooperation to a jigsaw puzzle, with volunteers emphasizing their mutual dependence. The second idea draws a comparison with pieces in a board game, with volunteers asserting their autonomy and acting strategically in dealing with others. The two ideas are shown to be incompatible, leading to volunteers taking rather critical views of each other. This shows the importance of a more nuanced analysis of different ideas of cooperation in volunteer work and of not taking successful cooperation as a given. Our practical conclusion is that the manner of cooperation in volunteer work needs to be negotiated more thoroughly.
Influence of optimal process parameters for abrasive water jet machining of DMR249A using multi-response optimisation techniques
Authors: Vishnuja U , Bhaskar GB , Sugumaran IR , Koteswara Rao SR
Published: December 2024

Abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) is one of the unique unconventional machining processes. It is used widely in aerospace and shipbuilding industry for machining hard to cut materials besides it allows the structural characteristics of the specimen to remain unaltered even after machining. In this study, the effects of process parameters on machining of DMR249A steel by AWJM were studied. DMR249A is a military grade high strength low alloy steel used for ship construction and repairs. For machining input parameters are taken as pressure (P), stand-off distance (SOD) and abrasive flow rate (AFR) while the traverse speed is kept constant, Taguchi design of experiment (DOE) approach is used. L27 orthogonal array is selected for experimental work. Influence of process parameters on material removal rate, surface roughness and kerf angle was studied. Optimum process parameters are identified with the help of grey's relational analysis. From the optimum value obtained confirmation tests are done with pressure of 165.472 MPa, SOD 4 mm and AFR 406 g/min. After optimisation, the influence of machining parameter outcomes was examined through analysis of variance. It was noted that pressure had a significant effect and a contribution of 21.34% and combination of pressure and AFR had a contribution of 45.41%. To confirm the effectiveness of grey relational analysis scanning electron microscopic image is taken to study the morphology and surface structure. From the analysis the optimised parameter has less abrasive particle embedment and also fine surface finish was observed.
Heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics of ring inserted riser tube in solar water heater
Authors: Gaurav Kumar , Verma Suresh Kant
Published: December 2024

The present work considers the innovative design of absorber tube of solar water heater having circular rings inserts inside the riser tubes to provide optimal thermohydraulic performance of solar water heater having flat reflector beneath the absorber tubes. To produce substantial effect on the heat transfer rate, three different cases of absorbers with pitch ratio [Formula: see text] of 2, 3, and 4 have been considered. The influence of circular rings on heat transfer and fluid flow characteristics were experimentally evaluated and presented for laminar flow conditions. The data were collected at varying mass flow rates of 0.0056, 0.0097, 0.0138, 0.0207, 0.0277, and 0.0346 kg/s from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at intervals of 10 min in the month of March and April 2023 for all the three pitches considered. The results demonstrated that the maximum thermal efficiency and optimal performance evaluation factor of the solar water heater with ring inserted risers were found 83.92% and 1.7, respectively, for the pitch ratio 2. The Nusselt number and friction factor increased by 73.35%–91.88% and 29.72%–41.98%, respectively, in comparison to plain riser tube.
The birth of fashion as complex phenomenon: Aesthetic rereading of Frederick Charles Worth's practice
Authors: Muchová Linda
Published: December 2024

Frederick Charles Worth (1825–1895) is consensually regarded as a founder of haute couture. His business was accompanied by unprecedented marketing strategies. These strategies included also the person of dressmaker in order to change his social status. In accordance with this, dressmaking is no longer just a craft; it has begun to aspire to the position of art. This article wants to show that the process of establishing “the field of haute couture” (Bourdieu) cannot be described only in sociological terms but contains a substantial aesthetic dimension. Our analysis of Worth's social practices reveals a series of dialectical relations that constitute objects of fashion as such. The new institutional framework of haute couture inevitably accelerates changes in the material design of garments, which at the same time supports their moral obsolescence. In the second step, we discuss Charles Baudelaire's attempt to characterize the nature of specifically modern art. Baudelaire's formulations emphasize a very similar dialectical structure of modern beauty, which is constituted by its inclination to transience and decay. In this sense, Worth's innovative practice itself produces the aesthetic quality of a single apparel. So, we can read Worth's haute couture as an instance of Baudelairian modern art.
Optimization of short-term energy management for enhancing economic and environmental performance in microgrid operations
Authors: Adeshida Joel Richmond , Abdalla Ahmed N. , Furukawa Noritoshi , Oikawa Hitoshi
Published: December 2024

Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are playing an increasingly important role in modern transportation systems, as a result of the ecological crisis and the energy crisis. The enormous potential of the storage capacity of the large fleet of PHEVs, together with the flexibility they can offer power systems through effective control, cannot be ignored. Meanwhile, renewable energy sources (RESs) present significant challenges for energy management scheduling. This article analyzes a microgrid comprising several RESs, such as photovoltaics, fuel cells, wind turbines, microturbines, a battery as energy storage, and PHEVs. Monte Carlo simulation is used to address uncertainties in model development. To account for possible inaccuracies in PHEV charging predictions, electrical load consumption, hourly energy price fluctuations, and RES power output, the study uses a 24-h simulation. Furthermore, a nickel metal hydride battery is used in the microgrid to evaluate the operational impact of different storage systems. The optimization aims to minimize the total cost of the network, including the cost of load supply, the cost of PHEV charging demands, and the cost of power losses. The complexity of the problem requires a novel optimization technique, in this case, the modified manta ray foraging optimization algorithm, which provides a comprehensive global search of the entire search space. Numerical results reveal that the modified manta ray foraging optimization technique demonstrates favorable convergence properties and lower generation costs compared to the classical manta ray foraging optimization method and other recent optimization algorithms.
Cultivating temporal attunement: Unfolding the seasonalities of an unsettled river landscape
Authors: Jensen Miriam Holst
Published: December 2024

This article argues for the importance of cultivating temporal attunement through experimental tools and methods aimed at instigating reflective conversations on variegated temporalities within participatory processes. It contributes to, and develops on, research on seasons as rhythmic phenomena, temporal conflicts and efforts to make temporalities visible for reflections in participatory contexts. Drawing on this research, I develop ‘the Rhythmical Calendar’— a tool which foregrounds temporal, and with it seasonal, mismatches and conflicts in a case of participatory planning for the Danish River landscape of Gudenå. From here, I draw out three analytical themes from the Rhythmical Calendar: 1) embodied mismatches, 2) interpersonal mismatches and 3) more-than-human mismatches. In the first theme, I highlight how temporal mismatches in coordination can become embodied as affect in the shape of e.g., anxiety, stress and loss. In the second theme, I unfold the multiple seasons connected to human practices and the discrepancies between them. And in the third theme, I focus on relations to more-than-human actors through experiences with environmental mismatches in timing and coordination and reflections on the co-constructing of seasonal rhythms. I conclude that tools, such as the Rhythmical Calendar, are important prerequisites for attuning people to questions around time and temporality and that it is pivotal to include this knowledge in collaborative governance processes to realign rhythms in efforts to navigate in and manage conflicts.
Toward a consensus on the intrinsic value of biodiversity
Authors: Morrow Katie H.
Published: December 2024

This article addresses the stalemate on the question of whether biodiversity has intrinsic value. I distinguish between a “weak” conception and two “strong” conceptions of intrinsic value in the environmental ethics literature. The strong conceptions of intrinsic value are connected, respectively, to moral standing and to a strongly objectivist account of value. Neither of these forms of value likely applies to biodiversity. However, the weak conception of intrinsic value is neutral about both moral standing and the nature of value and plausibly applies to biodiversity. In addition, weak intrinsic value avoids common objections to the claim that biodiversity is intrinsically valuable. I develop a cumulative argument showing that environmentalists should presume that biodiversity has intrinsic value in the weak sense.
How does the French press handle a controversial biotechnology? A psychosocial study of media coverage of human genome editing
Authors: Marmorat Thibaud , Lelaurain Solveig , Sousa Yuri Sá Oliveira , Apostolidis Thémis
Published: December 2024

The development of techniques for the modification of the human genome gives rise to heterogeneous communications and representations and is a relevant object for studying the dissemination of scientific innovations within society. Situated within the framework of social representations theory, our study aims to investigate the thematic dimensions of the public debate—as occurring in the French press—on the edition of human embryos. We conducted a lexicometric study of 343 French press articles with a hierarchical descending classification analysis and a correspondence analysis. Results indicate an evolution in the media treatment of human genome editing, from a popularization perspective to a focus on ethical and legislative aspects of genome editing. This study attempts to shed light on the structure and dynamics of information and meanings associated with human genome editing by analyzing the context in which communications surrounding genetic editing are situated and produced.
Developing Meteorology in Wartime China: The Chinese Southwest Observation Network and Its Application During the Second Sino-Japanese War
Authors: Liu Xiao
Published: December 2024

Using the Southwest Observation Network as a case study, this article explores the planning and establishment of meteorological networks during the Second Sino-Japanese War, asserting that the Southwest Observation Network largely met China's wartime demand for meteorological information. While the existing literature focuses on political, economic, and social aspects of the wartime period, this article emphasises the role of scientific infrastructure, arguing that the creation of the Southwest Observation Network not only facilitated the observation and transmission of meteorological information but also strengthened the central government's control over local scientific infrastructures, thereby safeguarding China's national sovereignty at a scientific level.
Data, Development and Democracy: The Political Economy of the Indian Census
Authors: Kumar Vikas
Published: December 2024

India’s ability to conduct large-scale modern scientific exercises such as decennial population censuses with clockwork precision and unparalleled regularity is widely regarded as a source of collective national pride. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the regular schedule of the census, and it is not clear when the indefinitely postponed 2021 Census will be held. The present study uses this pause to explore the evolution of the Census of India and examine the quality of its data over the past few decades followed by a discussion of potential reforms including rationalisation of schedules to adapt the exercise to meet emerging challenges.
Pain Outcomes Among Medical Centers With High vs Low Specialist Palliative Care Reach Among People With Heart Failure
Authors: Feder Shelli L. , Han L. , Zhan Yan , Abel Erica A. , Akgün Kathleen M.
Published: December 2024

Background: Pain affects more than 60% of people with heart failure (HF), with increasing frequency and severity towards the end of life (EOL). We examined if family-rated pain near EOL was associated with rates of specialist palliative care (SPC) among patients with HF. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study among 1095 decedents with advanced HF (aHF = ≥2 hospitalizations) from 83 Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) between 2018-2020. We used multilevel logistic regression to derive facility rates of predicted SPC for each VAMC adjusting for demographic and clinical characteristics. We examined associations between VAMCs in the top 20% (vs bottom 80%) of SPC rates and family-reported pain at the EOL from the Bereaved Family Survey and the interaction between receiving SPC and VAMC-level SPC rates on study outcomes. Analyses were conducted using generalized linear models, adjusting for demographic, clinical, and facility covariates. Results: The sample was 98% male, 73% White, and 20% Black, with a mean age of 79.7+/−10.3 years. Over 77% of the sample had uncontrolled pain at the EOL. In adjusted models, there was no association between family-reported pain and VAMC rates of SPC (Odds Ratio = 1.082, 95% Confidence Interval = 0.706-1.659). Receipt of SPC did not change this relationship (p-interaction = .405). Conclusion: Families of people with aHF cared for in VAMCs with high rates of SPC were as likely to report uncontrolled pain relative to people cared for in VAMCs with lower SPC rates. Research is needed to identify delivery and organizational features associated with improved pain control at the EOL among this symptomatic population.
Effect of system interface elements’ design features and vibration levels on task load and body discomfort in vehicle simulated vibration environments
Authors: Tang Xing , Yu Suihuai , Chu Jianjie , Li Feilong , Fan Hao , Jiang Gang
Published: December 2024

Backgrounds: Touch screens have been extensively utilized in vehicle information systems; however, few studies have centered on the reduction of the touchscreen interaction task load and the increase of body discomfort when driving on unpaved roads. Objective: This study aimed to explore the relationship between the system interface elements’ design features and interaction task load in vehicle simulated vibration environments. Method: Using a touch screen computer and E-prime software, we investigated the interaction task load and body parts discomfort of 18 participants in varied vibration frequency environments and interface design elements. Results: The results indicate that vehicle vibration significantly increases system interface interaction task load and causes greater discomfort for the operator. Conclusion: An appropriate increase in the physical size of the interface design features (visual stimulus materials and touch buttons) helps mitigate this negative effect of vibration. The research results can be used as a reference for the current universal design specification of vehicle information system interface in the vibration scenario of unpaved roads.
Partial eigenstructure assignment of the vibration system based on multi-input PID active control
Authors: Mao Huping , Du Yulong
Published: December 2024

We propose a multi-input active control method to enable targeted assignment and suppression of closed-loop zeros and poles in a vibration system, while preventing system singularities. This approach integrates integral feedback into the dynamic flexibility matrix control framework. The method begins by introducing multi-input PID feedback into the free vibration equation of a multi-degree-of-freedom linear system. The Laplace transform is then applied to decompose and solve the resulting linear equations using LU decomposition, yielding the closed-loop system’s transfer function matrix. When the preset zeros and poles are self-conjugate with negative real parts, the gain vector for multi-input PID feedback eigenstructure assignment is determined using the Levenberg–Marquardt method. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated through third- and sixth-dimensional examples. Numerical results confirm its efficacy in multi-input active control with partial eigenstructure assignment, while a robustness analysis further supports its practical applicability.
What Date Works Best for You? Changes in Electorate Demographics and Policy Priorities in Concurrent Elections
Authors: Lucero Eddie , Robles Ricardo , Trounstine Jessica , Collins Jonathan
Published: December 2024

Research shows that off-cycle local elections witness much lower turnout than elections held concurrently with state or national elections. However, not all concurrent elections are created equal. Local elections can be held concurrently with presidential general elections, congressional midterms, or state and national primaries. We leverage the passage of a California law that forced cities to change their election calendar to understand the ways in which the electorate differs across different types of concurrent elections. Using election returns from the California Data Archive and data from an original survey of 3,000 residents from Los Angeles County, we find that when cities switch to holding elections concurrently with presidential general elections turnout increases, the share of underrepresented groups increases, and the electorate is more likely to prioritize issues important to marginalized groups, but the same is not true for elections held concurrently with midterm elections or primaries.