bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Decolonising] the Contentious Politics of Seeing: Reading Visual Cultures
Authors: Chandra Priyanka , Human Deléne
Published: September 2024

Art and imagery consumed globally through digital and social media are increasingly intertwined with everyday life and politics. This article discusses the often contentious politics of seeing art and imagery, and the problematique that surrounds it. It inverts the lens to look at visual cultures by contextualising it within larger cultural politics and examines the process of visual meaning-making in the public sphere. We seek to disrupt disciplinary and methodological boundaries and employ a transdisciplinary approach to deconstructing meaning-making in the public sphere. We focus on how continued hegemonic discourses are problematised in the production and representation of artworks, especially in the context of the Global South, and how these contribute to decolonising visual cultures and knowledge production. We argue that seeing as a conscious act of engagement differs from casual consumption and spectatorship, and an engaged position alters the viewer’s receptivity. We conclude that through participatory engagement with art and an ongoing dialogue a more inclusive public sphere is possible, enabling education and disrupting a multitude of power hierarchies.
A new twist on torsion: A connection between vector calculus and mechanics of materials
Authors: Espinosa Maldonado Alvaro A. , Dolovich Allan T.
Published: September 2024

In engineering education, the topic of torsion is taught in both calculus and mechanics of materials, but using different definitions. Apparently, a clear connection between these two concepts is not currently found in the literature. In this paper, for the case of a homogeneous linear-elastic cylindrical shaft subjected to external torques, mathematical expressions are derived for relating torsional stress, strain and angle of twist to the torsion of a curve as taught in calculus. A physical connection is also presented, in that the curve torsion resulting from the deformation of a longitudinal line close to the shaft axis is shown to be approximately equal to the mechanical twist per length in the shaft. Although some researchers have hinted at this connection, to our knowledge the full precise connection has not been previously established.
Removing environmental barriers to independent living: A feasibility randomised controlled trial targeting people ageing with long-term physical disabilities
Authors: Chen Szu-Wei , Krauss Melissa J , Somerville Emily , Holden Brianna , Devine Megen , Stark Susan
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

People ageing with long-term physical disabilities face unique challenges to maintaining independence. We developed a novel, evidence-based intervention – Removing Environmental Barriers to Independent Living – to support participation and reduce falls.

Methods:

To examine Removing environmental barriers to independent living’s feasibility and estimate its magnitude of efficacy, we conducted a single-blinded randomised controlled trial. Fifty participants who were aged 45–65 years with a physical disability for at least 5 years were randomised to intervention ( n = 24) or control ( n = 26). Activity performance, environmental barriers to performance, community participation, environmental fall hazards and fall prevention behaviours were assessed at baseline and at 6-month follow-up. Dose, adherence, fidelity and cost were examined. Linear mixed-effects models for repeated measures were used to assess the effects of time, group and group by time interaction on the continuous outcomes.

Results:

Removing environmental barriers to independent living had high fidelity and adherence and a low implementation cost. There were trends for greater improvements in activity limitations and activity performance among intervention versus control participants.

Conclusion:

Removing environmental barriers to independent living is a feasible intervention with high fidelity and adherence. Findings trended towards greater improvements in activity performance for intervention participants. Results could inform future planning for a larger pragmatic trial.
Navigating the Vatican Library repositories
Authors: Vincenti Raffaella
Published: September 2024

An institution of ancient origin, the Vatican Apostolic Library holds a diverse and complex collection of documents that reflect its rich institutional history, distributed among its various collections and institutional archives. This multifaceted heritage, comprising traditional and digital resources, stands as a valuable testimony to the active role of the Library in the international cultural context. This article aims to provide a general overview of these resources and their potential historical significance, focusing on the last century and presenting some significant episodes in the institution’s history.
Development and Implementation of Stop-and-Go Inertial Profiler Certification Procedure in California
Authors: Bhattacharya Biplab B. , Schaefer Nicholas , Spears Rahshaun , Colbert Baron
Published: September 2024

The ride quality of a road in California is often determined by evaluating pavement smoothness using an inertial profiler (IP). Conventional IP technology, per California Test (CT) 387, requires IP operators to maintain a minimum speed of 15 mph to collect pavement-smoothness data. However, maintaining a minimum speed of 15 mph in busy urban areas or on hilly terrains can be difficult and unsafe, often requiring traffic control. Caltrans and industry have identified a new technology, the “Stop-and-Go” (SAG) IP, for collecting pavement-smoothness data at low speeds (under 15 mph) without traffic control. The previous version of CT 387 did not allow for the use of SAG IPs. To address this issue, the Pavement and Materials Partnering Committee (PMPC) evaluated SAG IP and updated CT 387. A certification procedure for SAG IP was developed, and included in CT 387, based on a series of runs using speed profiles under various braking and acceleration conditions simulating urban traffic conditions. Any SAG profiler can be certified if it meets the requirements of AASHTO R 56 and CT 387. The certification procedure was validated using qualification runs at the Caltrans certification track, along with field testing, demonstrating that SAG IPs provide similar results to conventional IPs. Based on the validation, along with the subsequent update of CT 387, the PMPC approved the implementation of SAG IPs for optional use by Caltrans and industry. These developments helped California become one of the first states to develop and implement a certification procedure for SAG IPs.
Thermal Cameras and Their Safety Implications for Pedestrian Protection: A Mixed Empirical and Simulation-Based Characterization
Authors: Donà Riccardo , Mattas Konstantinos , Vass Sándor , Delubac Guillaume , Matias Jessy , Tinnes Sebastien , Ciuffo Biagio
Published: September 2024

Multiple sensing technologies exist for advanced driver support and driving automation systems. Car manufacturers combine different solutions to increase the robustness and operational capabilities of driving automation technology perception systems. One sensing method that did not achieve high market penetration with respect to other solutions is the thermal camera. Thermal cameras can operate in low-light and high-contrast conditions as they do not need external sources of illumination. Instead, they are sensitive to the infrared radiation emitted by any surface above 0 K. Thus, thermal cameras can be a suitable candidate to compensate for the weaknesses of visible cameras. To establish the potential benefit of thermal cameras for pedestrian protection, this paper reports on an experiment using state-of-the-art thermal imaging sensors. The authors’ scientific effort includes a characterization of the infrared sensor capability to identify pedestrians when coupled with a detection algorithm and provides a simulation-based investigation of the potential safety benefits of thermal camera adoption. The analysis additionally includes a heuristic characterization of the detection capabilities of a passenger car equipped with visible cameras to provide a baseline comparison. Ultimately, the thermal sensors return noteworthy detection capability that could lead to a potentially significant improvement in road safety on rural roads provided that the sensor has sufficient resolution.
Development of Risk-Based Methodologies for Highway Pavement Construction Inspection
Authors: Le Nhien Dinh , Tran Daniel , Mohammed Mamdouh
Published: September 2024

Construction inspection plays a critical role in Portland cement concrete pavement (PCCP) and hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavement projects. To ensure the quality of pavement projects, state departments of transportation (DOTs) in the U.S. typically conduct construction material tests and inspect workmanship processes using quality assurance (QA) programs. Given today’s reality of reduced QA inspection resources such as funding, staff ability, and availability, several state DOTs have used a risk-based inspection (RBI) approach to optimize their QA processes. A thorough review of existing literature revealed limited studies examining RBI methodologies in highway pavement construction projects. The aim of this study is to investigate the use of RBI for pavement construction projects. It employed a triangulation research methodology, including an extensive literature review, a survey questionnaire of 50 state DOTs, focus groups, and a vetting workshop. A list of 16 core items in field inspection for both PCCP and HMA pavement projects was developed and verified. A generic risk rating of these critical inspection activities was determined. Additionally, inspection frequency, documentation effort, and inspector experience associated with these critical inspection activities identified through focus groups and the vetting workshop served as a reference point when conducting RBI for PCCP and HMA pavement projects. This study contributes to the body of knowledge and the highway construction industry by identifying and prioritizing 16 core inspection items for PCCP and HMA pavement construction. Construction project managers and inspectors may benefit from this study by analyzing the risks of core inspection items and implementing appropriate risk mitigation plans.
Identifying Truck Activity from Global Positioning System Data Based on Satellite Imagery
Authors: Hu Jian , Yang Shiyao , Yang Yun , Xu Xinhao , Zhang Xiaoqiang
Published: September 2024

Road freight transportation plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and enhancing logistics efficiency. Existing research primarily focuses on analyzing freight truck activity characteristics based on global positioning system (GPS) data of freight truck trajectories. Those studies proposed a variety of identification methods from different perspectives, but they mainly rely on rule-based methods and subjectively defined key threshold parameters, ignoring the complexity of truck freight activities and relying on long sequences of trajectory data. To bridge this gap, we propose the satellite image augmented truck activity recognition method, a structured framework that utilizes satellite imagery to identify truck activities from GPS data. Firstly, we categorize truck activities into three types: loading/unloading, resting, and driving. We extract geographic entities from the area of interest data to create the satellite image dataset of truck activity. Secondly, we evaluate the recognition accuracy of benchmark image classification models on our dataset, and ResNet50 achieves 98.04% accuracy on the test set. Thirdly, we apply the image classification model to identify truck activity from GPS trajectory data and use the recognition results of neighboring points to improve the identification results. The framework delineated in this paper entails the extraction of truck activities from GPS data at the satellite image level. Our approach holds promise in facilitating logistics operation fleets and traffic management authorities to maintain near real-time surveillance of the truck status, thereby fostering enhancements in both the efficiency and safety of freight transport.
Feasibility Study of Capacitor-Based Smart Washer Sensor Systems for Highway Sign, Luminaire/Light, and Traffic Signal Structures
Authors: Zhang Hanming , Shen Jay
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to provide an improvement on the current inspection methods for anchor bolts used in highway sign, luminaire/light, and traffic signal (SLTS) support structures to reduce the risk of structural failure as well as human labor costs. A feasibility study on a capacitance-based smart washer system was conducted. The capacitor-based sensor system design combined with customized polylactic acid three-dimensional printed attachments was proposed and tested. Laboratory tests on multiple sets of sensors were performed through initial testing and tightening–loosening testing; results have shown that the performance of the sensor system follows the working principle of the capacitor and, with a less than 5% error tolerance, a capacitance–pretension relationship was developed in the laboratory. Then the sensor system was installed at a sign structure specimen for long-term evaluation; the 12-month consecutive monitoring results show that the sensor system was able to perform steadily with a proper waterproof cover applied. The change of the capacitance was found at ±5% of the reference value, and torques were applied to verify the measurement results from the sensor system, indicating that the minor capacitance change was caused by a change of temperature. The results have proven the feasibility of this capacitor-based smart washer system that detects the pretension change inside the anchor bolts and performs steadily in a controlled on-site environment with a high durability. In summary, this study provides the possibility of improving the monitoring methods for anchor bolts in highway SLTS structures.
Prospective study investigating the influence of nutritional intervention on biochemical profiles in patients with recurrent urolithiasis.
Authors: Ben Othman Rym , bouzid Kahena , Ben Sassi Amira , Naija Ouns , Ferjani Wafa , Mizouri Ramla , Bartkiz Ahlem , Ammari Khouloud , Gamoudi Amel , Berriche Olfa , Jamoussi Henda
Published: September 2024

Background and objectives:

Urolithiasis, commonly known as kidney stones, is a condition significantly impacted by dietary habits. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of a tailored dietary plan on the crystalluria and biological parameters of patients with different types of kidney stones over a 3-month period.

Methods and study design:

We conducted a prospective study of 3 months. The study involved patients with recurrent nephrolithiasis. Alongside the medical consultation, a comprehensive dietary survey was performed to assess the patients’ nutritional habits. Urinary parameters, including volume, calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and power of hydrogen (pH), were evaluated both before and after the dietary intervention.

Results:

69 patients were involved. There were 17 patients diagnosed with cystine lithiasis, 33 with oxalocalcic lithiasis and 19 with uric lithiasis. After 3 months, only 32 patients revisited for follow-up. There were significant changes ( p = 0.002 and 0.04) in urine crystalluria for cystinic and uric lithiasis. For the urinary oxalate variation, there was a significant decrease from T1 (before dietary intervention) to T2 (after dietary intervention), with levels dropping from 0.289 ± 0.10 umol/l to 0.215 ± 0.079 umol/l ( p = 0.02).Regarding urinary calcium (calciuria), there was a trend toward a decrease from T1 to T2, although the change was not statistically significant, with levels decreasing from 2.42 ± 1.68 umol/l to 2.14 ± 1.62 umol/l ( p = 0.1).

Conclusions:

Our research underscores the favorable effects of a tailored and well-balanced diet on both the crystalluria and biological parameters of individuals with recurrent lithiasis.
Anogenital distance and the risk of Late-onset hypogonadism
Authors: Marín-Martínez Florencio Manuel , Arense-Gonzalo Julian J , Artes Miriam Artes , Bobadilla Romero Emny Rochell , Garcia Porcel Victor , Suárez-Pineda Mabel Coromoto , Guzmán Martínez-Valls Pablo Luis , Mendiola Jaime
Published: September 2024

Objective:

to investigate the association between anogenital distance (AGD) and the risk of Late-onset Hypogonadism (LOH).

Methods:

We prospectively recruited 145 consecutive patients referred for transrectal prostate biopsy due to prostate-specific antigen (PSA) elevation or abnormal digital rectal examination, between September 2019 and December 2021. Two variants of AGD, anus to scrotum base (AGDas) and anus to dorsal insertion of penis (AGDap) were measured. Serum total testosterone levels in fasting conditions between 07.00 and 11.00 h were determined. Patients filled out the Aging Males’ Symptoms (AMS) scale questionnaire.

Results:

LOH was diagnosed in 29% of the participants and presented both AGDs shorter than men without LOH, with an AGDap of 116.09 mm (9.02 mm) versus 128.71 (10.76), and an AGDas 29.70 (8.01) versus 39.93 (11.64); both p < 0.05. ANCOVA test showed a significant association between the presence of LOH and both AGD measurements. Besides, AGD measurements presented adequate accuracy for the diagnosis of LOH.

Conclusions:

This work adds to the scientific evidence that AGD—a biomarker of fetal exposure—could provide a non-invasive measure to address LOH, providing a potential useful clinical tool.
Challenges and opportunities in managing biodegradable plastic waste: A review
Authors: Mhaddolkar Namrata , Astrup Thomas Fruergaard , Tischberger-Aldrian Alexia , Pomberger Roland , Vollprecht Daniel
Published: September 2024

Biodegradable plastics have certain challenges in a waste management perspective. The existing literature reviews fail to provide a consolidated overview of different process steps of biodegradable plastic waste management and to discuss the support provided by the existing legislation for the same. The present review provides a holistic overview of these process steps and a comprehensive relative summary of 13 existing European Union (EU) laws related to waste management and circular economy, and national legislations plus source separation guidelines of 13 countries, to ensure the optimal use of resources in the future. Following were the major findings: (i) numerous types and low volumes of biodegradable plastics pose a challenge to developing cost-effective waste management infrastructure; (ii) biodegradable plastics are promoted as food-waste collection aids, but consumers are often confused about their proper disposal and are prone to greenwashing from manufacturers; (iii) industry-level studies demonstrating mechanical recycling on a full scale are unavailable; (iv) the existing EU legislation dealt with general topics related to biodegradable plastics; however, only the new proposal on plastic packaging waste and the EU policy framework for bioplastics clearly mentioned their disposal and (v) clear disparities were observed between disposal methods suggested by national legislation and available source separation guidelines. Thus, to appropriately manage biodegradable plastic waste, it is necessary to develop waste processing and material utilization infrastructure as well as create consumer awareness. In the end, recommendations were provided for improved biodegradable plastic waste management from the perspective of systemic challenges identified from the literature review.
Effects of bisphenol A, bisphenol S, and tetramethyl bisphenol F on male fertility in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Higley Cole M , Waligora Katelyn D , Clore Jessica R , Timmons Shannon C , Kuzmanov Aleksandra
Published: September 2024

Research has shown that exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), a widely used plasticizer, can lead to meiotic errors, resulting in poor reproductive cell quality and infertility. Health-related concerns have prompted the search for BPA alternatives; however, evidence suggests that currently used BPA analogs, such as bisphenol S (BPS), may pose similar risks to human health. While the effects of BPA on female fertility are well documented, the impact of BPA exposure on sperm quality is poorly understood. To better understand the effects of bisphenol analogs on spermatogenesis, we synthesized a less investigated BPA analog, tetramethyl bisphenol F (TMBPF), and compared its reprotoxic potential to that of widely used BPA and BPS using C. elegans-based assays. We evaluated germ cell count, spermatid size, morphology, and activation in males treated with 0.5 mM ethanol-dissolved bisphenol analogs for 48 h as well as their cross-progeny number and viability. Our results indicated that all of the evaluated bisphenol analogs—BPA, BPS, and TMBPF—adversely affect male fertility to varying degrees. Whereas all three bisphenols reduced spermatid size, only BPA exposure resulted in impaired spermatid activation and significantly reduced brood size. In addition, a decrease in embryonic viability, suggestive of an increased incidence of sperm chromosomal aberrations, was observed following exposure to all of the tested bisphenols. Further investigation is necessary to fully elucidate the underlying mechanisms and implications of BPA, BPS, and TMBPF on spermatogenesis.
Outcomes and Complications of Image-Guided Percutaneous Tumour Ablation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma at the Irish National Liver Transplant Centre
Authors: Tee Syer Ree , Hughes Hannah , Ryan Edmund Ronan , McCann Jeff , O’Rourke Colin , Bourke Michele , MacNicholas Ross , Cantwell Colin P. , Healy Gerard M.
Published: September 2024

Background: Image-guided tumour ablation is a minimally invasive treatment for early stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our study reviews the complications and long term outcomes in patients treated at a tertiary referral centre. Methods: Retrospective study. All patients with HCC who underwent microwave ablation (MWA) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) from 1st January 2014 to 31st December 2022 were identified. Treatment response of target lesion, complications, and survival were recorded. Results: One hundred seventy ablations were performed in 118 patients; 70% MWA, 30% RFA. Median radiological follow-up 21 months (range 3-107). Follow-up imaging was reported using LI-RADS and mRECIST. At first follow-up imaging, 94 patients had complete response (primary efficacy rate 80.3%) while 19.7% (n = 23) had residual disease. Fifteen of these had repeat ablation; 10 had complete response (secondary efficacy rate 85.6%). By end of study duration, 70.5% (n = 79) achieved sustained local complete response from single ablation without documented recurrence. 14.3% (n = 16) required more than one ablation of target lesion. Overall, 84.8% (n = 95) demonstrated long term local complete response to ablation. Complication occurred in 5.9% (n = 10); 40.0% Grade I, 40.0% Grade II, 10.0% Grade III, 10.0% Grade IV as per the CIRSE Classification. 1-, 3-, and 5-year overall survival (OS) rate was 97%, 68%, and 61% respectively. Mean OS was 5.3 years (median 4.7). No difference in OS ( P = .7) or local progression free survival ( P = .5) between patients treated with MWA versus RFA. Conclusion: This study demonstrates excellent long-term response to TA, with acceptable complication profile. No difference in survival between RFA versus MWA.
We Don’t Talk About X(Twitter): A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Social Media Utilization Among Neurologists
Authors: Rosati Justin , Martindale Jaclyn M. , Xixis Kathryn , Gottlieb-Smith Rachel , Russell Gregory , Bass Nancy , Goldstein Jessica
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

Medical professionals use social media for career development, education, clinical outreach, or advocacy. Prior studies estimate that 25% to 65% of health care providers use social media professionally; however, the number of users and platforms are rapidly changing. Therefore, as part of a broader study, we set out to assess platform preferences and social media usage among neurologists.

Methods

This was a multisite cross-sectional analysis consisting of a REDCap survey of clinicians, residents, and medical students. Faculty, trainees, or clinical year medical students interested in child neurology or adult neurology residency or fellowship programs within the United States were eligible to participate. Recruitment methods were broad to encompass as diverse and extensive participation as possible. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data are presented according to the STROBE guidelines.

Results

Of the 226 neurology respondents, 55% (n = 124) were child neurology and 45% (n = 102) were adult neurology across all career stages, including students. Of the 70% who reported using social media in a professional capacity, the most commonly reported reasons were for networking and collaboration (n = 95, 60%), self-directed medical learning (n = 90, 57%), and brand building and reputation (n = 62, 39%). Twitter and Facebook were the most common and versatile platforms used by neurologists. Medical students had the highest documentation of social media scholarships on their curriculum vitae (37%, P = .016) and the most interest (33%, P = .016) in learning how to document social media scholarships if they were not already. Early faculty shared this interest more than residents, fellows, or mid–late career faculty. In all groups except for mid–late career faculty, a majority of respondents (>75%) showed interest in learning how to leverage social media for career development.

Discussion

Social media is used professionally by a majority of neurologists, most commonly for networking, self-directed learning, and building individual brands. Opportunities exist to better understand platform preferences and ways to optimize their use for various professional activities as well as to provide education on effective professional use of social media including documentation for promotion.
Predicting Parental Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms Following their Child's Stay in a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Prior to Discharge
Authors: Whyte-Nesfield Mekela M. , Trujillo Rivera Eduardo A. , Kaplan Daniel , Li Simon , Hinds Pamela S. , Pollack Murray M.
Published: September 2024

Objective: Develop an inpatient predictive model of parental post-traumatic stress (PTS) following their child's care in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Design: Prospective observational cohort. Setting: Two tertiary care children's hospitals with mixed medical/surgical/cardiac PICUs. Subjects: Parents of patients admitted to the PICU. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: Preadmission and admission data from 169 parents of 129 children who completed follow up screening for parental post-traumatic stress symptoms at 3-9 months post PICU discharge were utilized to develop a predictive model estimating the risk of parental PTS 3-9 months after hospital discharge. The parent cohort was predominantly female (63%), partnered (75%), and working (70%). Child median age was 3 years (IQR 0.36-9.04), and more than half had chronic illnesses (56%) or previous ICU admissions (64%). Thirty-five percent (60/169) of parents met criteria for PTS (>9 on the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale-Interview). The machine learning model (XGBoost) predicted subjects with parental PTS with 76.7% accuracy, had a sensitivity of 0.83 (95% CI 0.586, 0.964), a specificity of 0.72 (95% CI 0.506, 0.879), a precision of 0.682 (95% CI 0.451, 0.861) and number needed to evaluate of 1.47 (95% CI 1.16, 1.98). The area under the receiver operating curve was 0.78 (95% CI 0.64, 0.92). The most important predictive pre-admission and admission variables were determined using the Local Interpretable Model-Agnostic Explanation, which identified seven variables used 100% of the time. Composite variables of parental history of mental illness and traumatic experiences were most important. Conclusion: A machine learning model using parent risk factors predicted subsequent PTS at 3-9 months following their child's PICU discharge with an accuracy of 76.7% and number needed to evaluate of 1.47. This performance is sufficient to identify parents who are at risk during hospitalization, making inpatient and acute post admission mitigation initiatives possible.
Investigating Pathways Linking of Women’s Education Status and Empowerment to Intimate Partner Violence Among Married Women in Sri Lanka: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Authors: Gunarathne Lakma , Apputhurai Pragalathan , Nedeljkovic Maja , Bhowmik Jahar
Published: September 2024

In Sri Lanka, intimate partner violence (IPV) remains a major concern, particularly for married women. Women’s education and empowerment are significant contributors to IPV. Despite this, there have been no recent studies exploring the complex relationship between education and multidimensions of empowerment in relation to IPV in Sri Lanka. Therefore, this research addresses this gap by exploring the complex pathways connecting married women’s education and multidimensional empowerment to IPV. Using data from the 2019 Sri Lankan Women’s Wellbeing Survey, this study included 1,165 married women. A path analysis based on structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to examine the complex interplay between distinct empowerment domains and IPV. The SEM results revealed both direct and indirect effects of women’s education and empowerment on IPV experiences. Education is positively linked to age at marriage, employment status, and husbands’ educational level, while inversely associated with accepting attitudes toward violence. Age at marriage plays a major role as a mediator, mediating the relationship between women’s education and their involvement in decision-making, and the relationship between husbands’ education and women’s IPV experience. Moreover, the relationship between women’s age at marriage and their IPV experiences was fully mediated by their decision-making ability, highlighting the importance of empowerment in decision-making. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that address the interconnected factors affecting IPV risk among married women in Sri Lanka, particularly focusing on education, empowerment, and marriage timing.
After Trickle Down, Kicking Down: On Jordan Peterson, Naturalizing Inequality, and Neofascist Indirect Apologetics
Authors: Sharpe Matthew
Published: September 2024

This paper argues that Jordan Peterson’s enthusiastic reception, including on the neofascist Right, reflects how his discourse functions as a form of indirect capitalist apologetics, which no longer obviates how the sociopolitical system produces massive inequalities, but sanctifies inequalities as natural and eternal. Part 1 frames the contention of the paper, addressing methodological issues. Part 2 establishes the understanding of indirect apologetics, drawn from Gyorgy Lukács’ account of fascist ideology as involving the following three irrationalist functions: first, ontologizing and relativizing peoples’ material, socioeconomic concerns; second, positioning the in-group as privileged by nature; and third, displacing socioeconomically mediated anxieties onto designated enemies to be combatted by a revivified, masculine culture. Part 3 shows how Peterson’s 12 Rules for Life proposes a social Darwinism (indirect apologetics, function 1), whose darker underside is authoritarian permission to ‘kick down’ on the weak, or those who would seek to ameliorate sociopolitical conditions (indirect apologetics, functions 2, 3).
A Comparison of Vancomycin Area Under the Curve and Trough Concentration in Specific Populations
Authors: Johnson-Louis Kadaajah L T , Nguyen My-Linh , K Zvonar Rosemary
Published: September 2024

Background: Vancomycin is an antibiotic known to cause nephrotoxicity, particularly when a vancomycin trough of 15 to 20 mg/L, a surrogate for an area under the curve (AUC) of at least 400 mgh/L, is targeted. Although monitoring vancomycin AUC is more resource intensive, it may especially benefit populations expected to be at higher risk of nephrotoxicity. Objective: To describe the proportion of discordance between vancomycin AUC and trough concentration in targeted high-risk populations. Methods: A prospective observational review was conducted on adults receiving intravenous vancomycin for more than 48 hours from May 9 to June 3, 2022. Patients included were elderly, obese, had renal dysfunction, and/or received 4 grams or more of vancomycin daily with a pending vancomycin trough concentration. A peak concentration was ordered by a project team member to calculate AUC to assess discordance. Results: A total of 47 patients were included with 87 vancomycin minimum concentration (Cmin)/AUC pairs analyzed. Discordance was observed in 52.9% of Cmin/AUC pairs in the entire cohort. The majority (79%) of the 43 Cmin levels <15 mg/L had an associated AUC >400 mgh/L and 57% of 21 Cmin levels within the 15 to 20 mg/L range had an AUC >600 mgh/L. Conclusion: A high degree of discordance between vancomycin Cmin and AUC was present in patients considered to be at high risk of nephrotoxicity. Monitoring vancomycin AUC in these patients may reduce the risk of nephrotoxicity.
Drive force allocation control based on pump displacement optimization for hydraulic hybrid motor-assisted system
Authors: Zhang Xuanming , Yang Dongpo , Duan Chaosheng , Zeng Xiaohua , Wu Qingtao
Published: September 2024

To achieve rational coordination of the front and rear axle torque of commercial vehicles equipped with hydraulic hybrid motor-assisted systems (HHMAS), and further enhance the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and traction capability. A hydraulic pump displacement control strategy based on energy-efficiency-orientation (EEO) is proposed for driving force distribution. Firstly, the efficiency is analyzed from the perspective of system energy flow. Then, considering the time-varying efficiency characteristics of the hydraulic variable pump and hydraulic motor, the stochastic dynamic optimization problem is modeled as a markov decision process, and a value function estimation method is introduced to approximate the optimal energy efficiency of the entire HHMAS. Finally, the results indicate that the EEO strategy can enhance the fuel economy of vehicles, with a fuel-saving rate of 6.3% compared to the wheel-speed-following-control (WSFC) strategy. In addition, the proposed strategy exhibits superior traction capacity and climbing ability compared to the traditional WSFC strategy.
Mechanical properties of seaweed/banana fiber/hBN filled epoxy composites using Box–Behnken method
Authors: Kirubakaran Ramraji , Thamarai Selvan Thirumal Selvan , Thirupathi Suresh , Pitchumani Shenbaga Velu , Gopalan Venkatachalam
Published: September 2024

Natural particulate reinforced polymer (NPRP) composites are developed to replace synthetic fibers, aiming to reduce costs and environmental impact. Industries such as automotive, electronics, construction and aerospace are turning to filler-reinforced polymer composites and natural bio-fibers to enhance structural properties and develop eco-friendly products. This article presents research on epoxy-based composites fortified with natural and ceramic micro-sized fillers, including seaweed filler (SF), banana fiber (BF) and hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), fabricated using the hand layup technique. Through experiments, the effect of filler loading on the enhancement of mechanical properties such as tensile strength (TS), toughness (T), Young's modulus (YM), resilience (R) and yield strength (YS) of multiphase hybrid composites is investigated. Incorporating mixtures of ceramic filler and natural fillers into the epoxy matrix improves mechanical properties. The results demonstrated that the interlaced composites achieved optimum mechanical properties for S6 sample, including a TS of 24.85 MPa, T of 25.47 MJ/m3, YM of 7.15 GPa, R of 0.698 MJ/m3 and YS of 3.34 MPa. In comparison with S11 samples, the mechanical properties such as TS, T, YM, R and YS of the S6 composite sample are increased by 110.95%, 57.8%, 450%, 501.7% and 292.9%, respectively. The tensile fracture's scanning electron images reveal a homogenous surface with the formation of a fractured surface and defects. Statistical analysis at a 96% confidence level revealed the significance of the interaction between natural and ceramic micro particulate on the TS of the developed interlaced composite material, with a p-value of 0.007.
Linear jerk variability evaluation in measurements of motor control trainability: Could kinematic variables encompass information about strength and dynamic balance?
Authors: Djafari Yassaman , Arshi Ahmad R , Rajabi Hamid
Published: September 2024

As the natural conclusion of talent identification in sports, talent development is the process that involves improving biomechanical capacities and bio-motor abilities. The development progress can be objectively assessed and monitored through measurements of trainability. This study introduces a practical methodology to assess motor control as a trainable factor using kinematic data. The study focused on establishing the relationship between kinematic data and changes in muscle strength and dynamic balance. It illustrates how wearable technology can assess trainability during a functional training programme. Twenty-six female university students were selected and divided into intervention and control groups to investigate motor control trainability. The intervention group performed step aerobics exercises for 24 sessions. A single inertial measurement unit (IMU) mounted on S1 captured the oscillatory motion profiles of the centre of mass during these rhythmic exercises. Analysis revealed that the amplitude of linear jerk variability in different anatomical planes could reflect core and lower limb muscle strengthening caused by training. Furthermore, the results indicated that the dynamic balance adaptation to the changing tempo throughout the training programme was dictated primarily by step width. The mediolateral linear jerk variability reflected this adaptation. The minimum instrumentation approach proposed by this study could prove very practical for the talent development monitoring. The methodology illustrates how the recorded kinematic data from an appropriately placed single IMU could become an information-rich source for the coach to monitor, assess and quantify the trainee’s progress during long-term athletic development.
Implementation of a multidisciplinary approach to care for people with HIV aged 80 years and over
Authors: Varadarajan Maithili , Blackburn Sophie , Girometti Nicolo , Hicks Alexandra , Senkoro Elizabeth , Candela Caterina , Ridsdill Smith Elizabeth , Naous Nadia , Tong Timothy , Boffito Marta
Published: September 2024

Background

Frailty adversely affects health and quality of life of people with HIV (PWH). A multidisciplinary-team (MDT) was established to perform a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) and to address modifiable risk factors in elderly PWH.

Methods

PWH aged over 80 years were reviewed by a dedicated HIV/geriatric clinic at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. Descriptive statistics were used to report the variables of interest.

Results

Sixty-three PWH were reviewed, with a median age of 82 (IQR 80–86). Fifty-seven (88%) were men. The median number of co-morbidities was five (IQR 4–7) and polypharmacy was seen in 55 (85%), with a median of six (IQR 5–8) co-medications reported. The median Rockwood Clinical Frailty Score was two (IQR 2–5). Antiretrovirals were modernised in 18 (29%) individuals; co-medication changes and de-prescribing was recommended in 39 (62%).

Conclusion

A MDT approach helped reducing polypharmacy and frailty, suggesting that specialised tools and MDT input are key to identify medical and social concerns in elderly PWH.
Autonomic Dysfunction in Fibromyalgia Patients: Electrophysiological Evidence from a Cross-sectional Study in Kochi, India
Authors: Bhagya Lakxmi C  , Henry Renoy A , Surendran Sandeep , Pradeep Manu
Published: September 2024

Background:

Over the decades, studies from various populations have found fibromyalgia and dysautonomia to be linked. However, recent evidence from Indian populations contradicts these findings.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study, conducted in a quaternary care centre in South India, recruited 30 women with fibromyalgia (2016 ACR criteria) and 30 age and sex-matched controls. We assessed all participants using Composite Autonomic Symptom Score (COMPASS-31) questionnaires, Sympathetic Skin Response (SSR) for sympathetic dysfunction and Heart Rate Variability battery of tests for parasympathetic dysfunction.

Results:

Median age of the women was 40 years. Fibromyalgia group reported severe levels of pain and disease impact on life. Fourteen participants (46.7%) with fibromyalgia tested positive for either sympathetic or parasympathetic dysfunction or both, while none of the control participants tested positive for either (odds ratio [OR] = 53.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3–957, p = 0.0068).

Conclusion:

Dysautonomia is strongly associated with fibromyalgia syndrome. Further research is needed to determine causality.
Associations Between Perceived Social Status, Discrimination, With Subjective Sleep Quality Among Migrant Care Workers During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tseng Po-Chang , Lin Tzu-Yun , Cheng Lung-Hua , Kuo Chun-Tung , Chen I-Ming , Chien Yi-Ling , Chen Hsi-Chung , Liao Shih-Cheng
Published: September 2024

This study examined the relationship between perceived social status, COVID-19-related discrimination, and sleep quality among 158 migrant care workers in Taiwan. Data were collected via computer-assisted interviews, assessing perceived social status with the MacArthur scale and sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The results revealed that higher perceived social status in reference to the destination country (B = 0.31) and experience of media stigmatization (B = 0.52) were associated with higher global Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores, whereas perceived social status in reference to the home country and others forms of pandemic-related discrimination were not associated with PSQI scores. The study concluded that social comparison and stigmatization were linked to sleep health of migrant care workers. Understanding these factors can inform the development of targeted interventions to address inequalities faced by migrants.
Trends and Characteristics of U.S. Metropolitan Neighborhood Integration, 2000–2020
Authors: Mleczko Matthew
Published: September 2024

In this study, I advance the neighborhood integration literature by detailing a more comprehensive approach to measuring neighborhood integration, accounting for both ethnoracial and socioeconomic diversity and evenness over the years 2000–2020. I document the prevalence and persistence of neighborhood integration, representing one of the first studies to investigate trends over the post-Great Recession decade of 2010–2020. Finally, I compare levels of social capital across integrated and segregated neighborhoods. The results reveal that neighborhood integration has grown steadily and considerably during 2000–2020, although most neighborhoods over this timeframe were persistently segregated. Mean levels of social capital tend to be higher in segregated neighborhoods, though socioeconomically integrated neighborhoods register comparable mean levels of social capital. Overall, the results indicate that to promote further integration and social capital, integrative policies should be targeted toward stubbornly segregated neighborhoods, not just neighborhoods experiencing demographic shifts toward segregation since the former considerably outnumber the latter.
Coupled torsion and inflation of functionally graded and residually stressed Mooney–Rivlin hollow cylinders
Authors: Batra Romesh C , Fairclough Kesna A
Published: September 2024

Functionally graded structures have material properties continuously varying in one or more directions. Examples include human teeth, sea shells, bamboo stems, and mammal organs in which the varying volume fraction and orientation of fibers optimize their functionalities. Here we analytically study large deformations due to combined torsion and inflation of residually stressed and radially graded Mooney–Rivlin hollow circular cylinders to provide insights into how grading their material moduli according to a power law function of the radius can be advantageously used. We simulate residual stresses in a thin wall hollow cylinder by inverting it inside out and in a thick wall cylinder by assuming that a longitudinal wedge opening parallel to the cylinder axis is closed by deforming it axisymmetrically. It is found that positive integer values of the power law exponent are generally advantageous but its negative values can have deleterious effects on stress distributions. Furthermore, a hollow cylinder with residual stresses generated by one of the foregoing methods in the reference configuration should be modeled as orthotropic rather than transversely isotropic for subsequent deformations. The analytical solutions provided here should help numerical analysts verify their algorithms for large deformations of rubber-like materials that are modeled by the Mooney–Rivlin relation, and design engineers for exploiting the radial gradation of the two material moduli to reduce structure’s mass without sacrificing its performance.
Addressing Systemic Racism in Mental Health Care
Authors: Hwang Wei-Chin , Kong Yuhan
Published: September 2024

Systemic racism is a public health crisis that needs to be urgently and effectively addressed. Historical racism, contemporary biases, and prejudicial attitudes have persistently affected and damaged the mental health of people of color (POC) throughout the world. Although the 2021 apology from American Psychological Association (APA) acknowledged the profession’s contribution to racism, much more work needs to be done to rectify and address past and current harm. A comprehensive, actionable, and concrete plan is needed to catalyze change. Adopting a socioecological approach can help tackle the multiple levels in which discrimination and unequal treatment take place. This necessitates more than just addressing the social determinants of illness, but also transforming the cultural competence of providers, organizations, and the mental health delivery system. Key to improving outcomes for POC domestically and abroad is increasing the affordability and access to care, diversifying and improving the cultural competence of the mental health workforce, and developing culturally adapted and effective care tailored to meet the culture-specific needs of diverse communities. Progress can only happen through proactive action and utilization of an anti-racist stance that commits significant financial and scientific resources to promote institutional, structural, systemic, and policy changes.