bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turkish foreign policy transformation in the context of middle power, strategic hedging and Eurasianism
Authors: Tüysüzoğlu Göktürk
Published: February 2025

Eurasianism came to the fore in Turkey after the coup attempt in 2016. Turkist/Turanist and Left/Kemalist versions of Eurasianism emphasize non-Western alternatives and push Western criticism of authoritarianism into the background. Amidst this process Turkey has sought to cooperate with Russia and China on a range of issues, particularly economic ones, and Ankara has also fronted the possibility of becoming a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. The hedging strategy Turkey has pursued during the Ukraine crisis accounts for the fact that despite being a NATO member, having good relations with Russia opens up space for Ankara. In this respect, it can be argued that the Eurasianist steps seen after 2016 represent Turkey's attempts at pragmatic hedging, which parallels its tensions with the West.
The Role of Morphology and Sentence Context in Word Processing for Adults With Low Literacy
Authors: Tremblay Kathryn A. , McBane Katja , Binder Katherine S.
Published: February 2025

Both vocabulary skill and morphological complexity, or whether words can be broken down into root words and affixes, have a significant impact on word processing for adults with low literacy. We investigated the influence of word-level variables of morphological complexity and root word frequency, and the sentence-level variable of context strength on word processing in adults with low literacy, who differed on levels of vocabulary depth skills, which was a participant-level variable. Our findings demonstrate that morphological complexity, root word frequency, and context strength are all related to how adult learners process words while reading, but their effects are dependent on participants’ vocabulary depth. Participants with higher levels of vocabulary depth were able to more quickly process morphologically complex words and make better use of supportive sentence context as compared to individuals with lower levels of vocabulary depth. These findings suggest that both morphological complexity and vocabulary depth are important for word processing and reading comprehension in adults with low literacy.
International Rivalry in China’s Urban Electrification: Suzhou, Shenyang, and Harbin, 1910s to 1930s
Authors: Li Chenxiao
Published: February 2025

This essay examines China’s urban electrification from the 1910s to the Sino-Japanese War in 1937 as a historical case study of how urban electricity became an arena of international rivalry between China and Japan. Using case studies of Suzhou, Shenyang, and Harbin, we reveal that Japan played a significant role in China’s urban electrification, providing startup money for the earliest electric light in many cities. However, Japanese investment was loaded with imperialist ambitions in China. The Chinese government and local communities interpreted urban electrification as a part of economic sovereignty. In Suzhou, the local community boycotted Japanese electricity. In Shenyang and Harbin, Japanese utilities were confronted by market competition from the Chinese community. The Sino-Japanese rivalries had different outcomes for the electrification process of Chinese cities. This essay re-evaluates Japan’s contribution to China’s urban electrification and highlights the geopolitical dimension of urban technology.
Willingness for Cross-Class Contact of Different Social Classes and the Mediating Role of Negative Contact Expectations
Authors: Wu Feng , Zhang Yuanji , Zhao Yufang , Zhang Chao , Ma Xingyang
Published: February 2025

The probability of cross-class contact between individuals from different social classes is significantly lower than that of random chance contact. However, it remains unclear whether individuals from lower or higher social classes are more reluctant to engage in cross-class contact. This study found that individuals with a lower subjective social class (SSC) were less willing to engage in cross-class contact than those with a higher SSC (Studies 1–2). This disparity in willingness persists even after controlling for expression bias and can be explained by negative contact expectations (Study 3). By manipulating negative contact expectations, a substantial increase in willingness to engage in such interactions can be achieved (Study 4). By focusing on the relationship between SSC and willingness for cross-class contact, this study has profound implications for enhancing intergroup interactions and assisting individuals with a low SSC in overcoming social challenges.
Development of efficient and sustainable adsorbents with perovskite and pyrochlore structures for removing pollutants
Authors: Fernandes Júlia B R , Firmino Valber E S , Souza Marcelo J B , Garrido Pedrosa Anne M
Published: February 2025

The development of adsorbents for removing contaminants from wastewater, which have not only high efficiency, but also the capacity for regeneration and reuse is extremely necessary. In this study, sustainable and efficient adsorbents with perovskite (LaFeO3) and pyrochlore (La2Zr2O7 and La2Fe0.3Zr1.7O7) structures were developed for removing organic pollutants (such as the turquoise blue (TB)) from the aqueous media. They were synthesized by a previously reported synthesis method, and have a specific surface area between 12 and 29 m2 g−1, pH at a point of zero charge from 3.5 to 6.9, and a surface charge density negative value. The adsorbents presented high efficiency for the removal of TB contaminant, with values of up to 98% ( q ≅ 294), and they maintained the adsorption capacities and efficiency high ( E% > 95%; q > 115) in all three studied regeneration-reuse of adsorbents cycles using the methodology 2 and in five cycles ( E% = 70 to 98, q = 27 to 165) using methodology 1. They also proved to be efficient in removing a pollutant compound from real effluent collected from a small local industry, as well as showing capacity for regeneration and reuse in three cycles studied. The perovskite and pyrochlore structures are maintained after adsorption test and regeneration and the TB compound adsorbed is degraded during thermal treatment. The removal mechanism may involve acid–base interactions, hydrogen bonds, electrostatic interactions, and cation–π interactions.
Circulating type IV collagen 7S concentrations are associated with left atrial remodeling indices in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kuzume Yuki , Fujibayashi Kosuke , Tanaka Kai , Sawaguchi Jun , Ueno Ei-Ichi , Fujioka Nakaba , Kawai Yasuyuki , Kajinami Kouji
Published: February 2025

Objective

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation. We assessed whether liver fibrosis markers are associated with atrial remodeling indicators in patients with atrial fibrillation in whom fatty liver disease has not been identified.

Methods

In this prospective, observational study, 174 patients with atrial fibrillation without chronic liver disease who underwent catheter ablation were enrolled. Using blood collected from the right atrium, type IV collagen (COL4), type IV collagen 7S (COL4-7S), and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations were measured as markers of liver fibrosis and inflammation. The left atrial volume and P-wave duration were used as atrial remodeling indicators.

Results

Left atrial volume was significantly positively correlated with COL4, COL4-7S, and tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations. COL4-7S concentrations were significantly positively correlated with tumor necrosis factor-α concentrations and the P-wave duration. To exclude the effect of alcohol consumption, a multiple regression analysis was performed for left atrial volume in patients with a <30-g daily alcohol intake (n = 124). Age, sex, and COL4-7S were significant explanatory variables (R = 0.44, adjusted R2 = 0.142, COL4-7S standardized β = 0.20).

Conclusion

Liver fibrosis may be involved in atrial remodeling via inflammation in patients with atrial fibrillation who do not have obvious fatty liver disease.
Association Between Global Overcoverage and Long-term Survivorship, Chondrolabral Junction Breakdown, and Reduced Joint Space Width: Minimum 8-Year Follow-up
Authors: Lee Jonathan S. , Gillinov Stephen M. , Siddiq Bilal S. , Dowley Kieran S. , Dean Michael C. , Cherian Nathan J. , Eberlin Christopher T. , Kucharik Michael P. , Martin Scott D.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Although previous literature has established the association between femoroacetabular impingement and progressive hip osteoarthritis, there exists a paucity of studies investigating the effects of global acetabular overcoverage on chondral wear and long-term outcomes.

Purpose:

To compare baseline joint space width (JSW), intraoperative findings, long-term total hip arthroplasty (THA)–free survivorship, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), pain levels, and patient satisfaction in patients who underwent hip arthroscopy with global overcoverage (GO) to a matched-control (MC) cohort.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

In this retrospective analysis, the authors queried patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for acetabular labral tears secondary to femoroacetabular impingement. Patients with complete PROMs at a minimum 8-year follow-up, the presence of coxa profunda as indicated by an acetabular wall projecting medial to the ilioischial line, and a lateral center-edge angle >40° were matched 1:1 by sex, age, body mass index, Tönnis grade, and labral treatment to a MC cohort of patients who had normal acetabular coverage. Baseline radiographic and intraoperative findings were compared between cohorts. Collected outcomes include the modified Harris Hip Score, Nonarthritic Hip Score, Lower Extremity Functional Scale score, Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score–Sports Specific Subscale, 33-item International Hip Outcome Tool score, pain levels, patient satisfaction, and conversion to THA.

Results:

In total, 38 patients with GO were 1:1 matched to a MC cohort. The GO cohort had significantly decreased baseline JSW at 50° ( P = .002) and greater chondrolabral junction breakdown ( P = .037). The GO and MC cohorts achieved similar outcomes for all 6 PROMs, rates of conversion to THA, pain levels, and patient satisfaction. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that the patients experienced a similar overall 18-year THA-free survival rate (GO: 71.1% vs MC: 84.2%; P = .101). To isolate the long-term effects of GO on hip arthroscopy outcomes, 6- to 18-year THA-free survivorship was examined, revealing that the GO cohort (−13.1%) experienced a significantly greater decrease compared with the MC cohort (−5.3%) ( P = .008).

Conclusion:

Patients with GO had significantly lower baseline ipsilateral JSW at 50° and greater intraoperative severity of chondrolabral junction breakdown. Furthermore, the GO cohort experienced a significantly greater decrease in long-term THA-free survivorship 6 to 18 years after hip arthroscopy.
Serial Changes in Muscle Strength and Dynamic Balance After Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 55 Patients
Authors: Cho Seung Ik , Yoo Ji Seung , Moon Sung Gyu , Kang Ji Hee , Yang Sang Jin , Kim Jin Goo , Lee Dhong Won
Published: February 2025

Background:

Despite numerous studies examining subjective clinical scores after meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT), research focusing specifically on functional measures is lacking.

Purpose:

To evaluate the serial changes in isokinetic muscle strength and dynamic balance during the first postoperative year after lateral MAT (LMAT).

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 55 patients who underwent LMAT underwent subjective functional assessment using the Lysholm and subjective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. The objective functions, evaluated using isokinetic muscle strength testing and the Y-balance test for dynamic postural stability, were recorded preoperatively and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at 2 days and 12 months postoperatively to evaluate the meniscal allograft extrusion and cartilage condition in the lateral compartment. At 12 months, patients with graft extrusion >3 mm on MRI were assigned to the extrusion group.

Results:

Significant improvements were observed in the Lysholm and subjective IKDC scores at 12 months postoperatively (both P < .001). The joint space width did not significantly increase ( P = .054). Coronal graft extrusion increased significantly ( P < .001). At 6 months postoperatively, isokinetic muscle strength tests indicated no significant reduction in the peak torque for knee extension ( P = .911). However, at 12 months, the peak torque was significantly increased ( P = .001), with the deficits improving from 38.3% to 18.1% ( P < .001). No significant changes were noted in the knee flexion strength. Dynamic postural stability showed a significant decrease in the Limb Symmetry Index (LSI) for the anterior reach at 6 months ( P = .004), but significant improvements were seen by 12 months, with the LSI values for the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral reaches all exceeding 90% ( P < .001). No significant differences in muscle strength or dynamic balance were found between the nonextrusion (n = 41) and extrusion (n = 14) groups at 12 months.

Conclusion:

The significant improvements in isokinetic muscle strength and dynamic postural stability achieved only by 12 months after LMAT underscores the necessity of a comprehensive rehabilitation program and caution against premature sports resumption.
Organizing Transgender People: Toward a Process-Based Theory of Representative Bureaucracy
Authors: Narendran Roshni , Ng Eddy , Almeida Shamika
Published: February 2025

Despite advancements in LGBTQ+ rights, transgender people remain as one of the most socially stigmatized and marginalized members of society. Many continue to face state-sanctioned discrimination. Kerala stands out in supporting and advancing transgender people. We interviewed 15 government officials and 28 transgender women to explore how the Kerala government uplifted and improved the lives of its transgender people. Using a grounded theory approach, we analyze Kerala’s (one of the most progressive states in India) efforts to support transgender people. We found that access to common good—linked with citizenship, active participation, and collective action in society—is key to connect policies with outcomes for socially marginalized groups. Our study emphasizes how representative bureaucracy can empower society’s most vulnerable individuals and help them establish nonprofit organizations for their own support. This discovery allowed us to enhance and develop a process-based theory of representative bureaucracy. Our study extends the theory by establishing the mechanisms by which representative bureaucracy delivers the common good to society’s marginalized members.
An energy-efficient adaptive angle tracking strategy of electro-hydraulic hybrid steering system for unmanned commercial vehicles
Authors: Zhou Jianhao , Liu Mohan , Wang Chunyan , Zhao Wanzhong
Published: February 2025

Aiming at the angle tracking control problem and high energy consumption issues arising from the fixed motor speed control in the hydraulic assist module of the electric-hydraulic hybrid power steering (EHHS) system of commercial vehicles in unmanned driving mode, an energy-efficient angle tracking strategy is proposed. Based on the establishment of a comprehensive dynamic model for the steering system, and taking into account the dynamic characteristics of the EHHS system and uncertain factors such as external disturbances, an angle-tracking and electro-hydraulic coordinated controller (ATEHC) is designed. This coordinated controller employs a fast terminal sliding mode controller with integral elements to calculate the desired hydraulic steering assist torque based on the target steering angle. Furthermore, an adaptive estimation term is designed for real-time compensation to suppress the effects of nonlinearity and external disturbances, reduce chattering, and enhance the robustness of the system. Additionally, an adaptive hydraulic power assist controller (AHPAC) is designed to address the issue of the non-direct correlation between motor control input and valve output. AHPAC employs an ADRC-GAPID cascade control, where the Genetic Algorithm (GA) is utilized to optimize the PID parameters. AHPAC modulates the motor voltage based on the desired hydraulic assist torque, thereby achieving variable motor speed and output hydraulic torque. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed angle tracking control strategy improves angle tracking accuracy while ensuring smooth assist torque output, achieving adaptive coordination of electric and hydraulic assist torques, effectively reducing system energy consumption. Finally, bench tests confirm that the control strategy meets the steering angle tracking requirements of unmanned driving modes in commercial vehicles and exhibits excellent energy-saving effects.
School-to-work transition program for at-risk youths: Cultural adaptation
Authors: Ivzori Yonat , Sachs Dalia , Reiter Shunit , Schreuer Naomi
Published: February 2025

Background

At-risk youths experience complex life circumstances with high poverty and school dropout rates, often never obtaining a matriculation certificate. Schools emphasize academic skills but lack programs for early career development, particularly those adapted for minority cultural characteristics.

Objective

This article describes the cultural adaptation of a school-to-work transition program (STWT).

Methods

Using our experience with an STWT for at-risk majority-group youths in Israel, we adapted, implemented, and evaluated the BALASHNA program (an acronym in Arabic of a program for successful young people at work) for at-risk youths in a traditional minority community. Forty-one at-risk Druze youths (11th graders) from two high schools participated in the 20-week culturally adapted STWT.

Results

Comparing the students’ pre- and post-intervention results showed improved knowledge of the work world, future orientation, and work performance.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that BALASHNA's concepts, tools, principles, and short internship experiences were effective for the initial career development of minority at-risk youths. It contributes ten effective principles for cultural adaptations of other programs and contexts.
A study exploring educational factors and youths’ perception of occupation in China's Shanghai
Authors: Ye Wangbei
Published: February 2025

Background

School plays a vital role in readying youths to take on a career. For decades, the People's Republic of China had a socialist egalitarian labour education tradition that prepared Grade 1–12 students for their future occupations.

Objective

This study explores how recent generations of single offspring (only-children hereafter) who have grown up in a socialist market economy and witnessed rapid social transition and stratification perceive labour and occupations, about which little is known. This study examines the relationship between educational factors and youths’ perceptions of occupations.

Methods

This study adopted a mixed methodology approach (questionnaire, interview, and lesson design analysis) to report how educators and youths (aged 15–16) perceived occupation in Shanghai. Researchers surveyed 206 Grade 10 students, interviewed two teachers and six students, and observed five classes related to labour education. The questionnaire data were analysed with SPSS software. Quantitative data were analysed as follows: frequency distribution, means and crosstabs (nominal by interval), t-text were calculated to answer Research Questions.

Results

The findings revealed that youths showed a higher degree of agreement with labour-/occupation-related values and a lower degree of agreement with labour-related practices in life. Factors like student leader experience and parents’ political party membership influenced students’ perceptions of occupation.

Conclusions

This study supplements the extant literature by identifying society-school-individual factors that explain youths’ development of occupation perceptions in China.
Addressing Cleft Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries Beyond Cleft Lip and Palate with Improvement of Otolaryngology, Audiology, and Speech Services
Authors: Belcher Ryan H. , Patel Krishna , Clark Jackie , Horne Sara
Published: February 2025

There are many barriers patients and families face in low- and middleincome countries (LMICs) to just receive the initial surgical care for their cleft lip and palate (CLP). Cleft lip/palate care encompasses much more than just the initial primary repairs, especially in the realm of otolaryngology, audiologic health, and speech language pathology. LMICs face many disparities in training and surgical care for secondary cleft surgeries, and addressing these disparities and creating solutions is paramount for the future of CLP patients globally. This editorial aims to highlight these disparities and pave a path forward with solution-based discussions.
A Rare Testicular Serous Cystadenocarcinoma Diagnosed in a Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection Specimen With a Review of the Literature
Authors: Misra Sunayana , Rao Seema , Badwal Sonia , Aggarwal Shyam , Mallya Ashwin
Published: February 2025

Ovarian-type epithelial tumors of the testicular and paratesticular tissue are rare tumors that histologically resemble their ovarian counterparts. These tumors pose significant diagnostic challenges, especially to general pathologists, and may be misdiagnosed as the more commonly encountered germ cell tumors or mesotheliomas, if an appropriate immunohistochemistry panel is not applied. In this case report, we describe a serous cystadenocarcinoma in the retroperitoneal lymph node dissection specimen which was initially misdiagnosed in the primary testicular tumor as a germ cell tumor at an outside center, thus emphasizing the role of the pathologist in critically evaluating the histomorphological findings and applying a comprehensive immunohistochemistry panel to argue against the differential diagnoses at this site and reach the correct diagnosis.
Home Health Care Use Among Medicare Beneficiaries From 2010 to 2020
Authors: Kim Seiyoun , Qi Mingyu , Konetzka R. Tamara , Werner Rachel M.
Published: February 2025

Medicare home health coverage is an important resource for Medicare beneficiaries requiring health care at home. However, there have been changes in the United States health care system that might impact home health utilization such as pressures to constrain Medicare spending, growth in Medicare Advantage (MA) plan enrollment, decline in institutional long-term care and growth of Medicaid home- and community-based services. Given these changes, we examined home health care use trends among beneficiaries enrolled in traditional Medicare (TM) and MA from 2010 to 2020. We separately examined home health episodes that were initiated after a hospital or skilled nursing facility discharge and those initiated within the community and among dually and non-dually eligible beneficiaries. Home health use decreased among TM enrollees for both community-initiated and post-discharge needs but increased among MA enrollees for community-initiated home health use. Increases in community-initiated home health use were concentrated in non-dually eligible beneficiaries.
The Longitudinal Pathways Linking SES to Reading Comprehension
Authors: Yu Liyan , Hou Yang , Yu Yilin , Cheung Him , Tong Xiuhong
Published: February 2025

Guided by the family investment model, family process model, and componential model of reading, this study examined underlying mechanisms linking family socioeconomic status (SES) to reading comprehension. Participants were 682 Chinese third graders (Wave1, Mage = 9.31 years, 338 girls) randomly recruited, and they were followed up after 1 year. Structural equation modeling revealed that higher parents’ education was related to more books in the home and higher levels of positive family relationship, which was associated with better language skills directly or indirectly through stronger reading interest—better language skills ultimately linked to better reading comprehension. No significant indirect pathways were found from family income to reading comprehension. The mediating pathways were similar for children with different parental migration statuses.
Use of Transportation Utility Fee to Fund Non-auto Transportation Modes
Authors: Mathur Shishir , Robinson Ralph
Published: February 2025

This research examines the extent to which transportation utility (TUF) funds non-auto transportation modes in the US, factors that enable jurisdictions to use TUF to fund these modes, and specific ways in which TUF-levying jurisdictions support these modes. The paper finds that while the use of TUF is growing, it rarely funds non-auto transportation modes. Second, several factors enable jurisdictions to use TUF to fund non-auto transportation modes, including, strong local stakeholder support, broad powers provided by the states to the local jurisdictions to levy fees and taxes, and the local jurisdiction-level authorizing ordinances and policies explicitly allowing the use of TUF revenues for non-auto transportation modes. Third, the case study jurisdictions support non-auto modes in ways that are influenced by three, often interrelated, factors—the amount of fee revenue, whether a portion of the fee revenue is earmarked for non-auto uses, and whether the jurisdiction provides transit service.
Introduction: Vital waste, or, the body extended
Authors: Novick Tamar , Pirogovskaya Maria
Published: February 2025

This special issue, Vital Waste, tackles the trajectories and perceptions of substances originating from human and animal bodies that were excreted, expelled, cut, removed, and/or used, in a period and contexts ranging from Medieval Iran to contemporary South India. We approach the substances in question through the lenses of history of science and technology in addition to anthropology, re-examining the conceptual frameworks of “afterlives,” and “signs of life,” and analyzing the meaning of life in bodily substances. Five articles demonstrate how different communities created, explored, and evaluated materials as both related to the “body integral” and disintegrated from it. Such ex-corporated substances, they show, are potent and stay active enough to mobilize human and nonhuman actors to act, often with a tendency to reduce proximity and move them away. This approach offers a new understanding of bodily waste as a vital material which preserves traces of life and whose connections with the body of origin either disturb or are highly desirable. This vitality contained within bodily materials is our focus. Traces or signs of life constitute potencies, both material and emotional, which are life-lasting and have to be framed as a value or a threat. Ultimately, the contributions that make up this special issue complicate our understanding of both waste and bodily boundaries.
Mapping professional identities of teachers of English as an additional language from Sri Lanka and Australia: Identifying commonalities across contexts
Authors: Matthews Joshua , Veliz Leonardo , Gunawardane Ruwan , Partridge David
Published: February 2025

Theorizing teacher identity is an important component of effective language teacher education. The current study maps the professional identities of 20 practicing teachers of English as an additional language (EAL) from two distinct contexts: Sri Lanka ( n = 10) and Australia ( n = 10). Data tapping each participant’s professional identity was elicited with semi-structured interviews structured around three domains: personal experience, professional context and external political environment. From the resultant teacher discourse, thematic analysis was applied to identify nine themes that teachers from both contexts perceived as being influential in the development of their professional identities, with two of these themes being perceived by some teachers as being of limited or no influence. These themes are defined and elucidated with quotes. Key differences in the way themes were manifested among the Sri Lankan and Australian teachers are also described. Findings provide a reference for language teachers’ critical reflection on their professional identities, especially those at the beginning of their careers.
Vertical stiffness of functionally graded hexagonal honeycomb structures for non-pneumatic tyres produced by fused filament fabrication
Authors: Sardinha Manuel , Pinto Joana , Alves Frederico , Ramos Tânia RP , Reis Luís , Vaz M Fátima
Published: February 2025

Non-pneumatic tyres (NPTs) are gaining popularity in applications that value durability, puncture resistance, and low maintenance. Current designs range from foam-based constructions to intricate cellular configurations. Cellular structures offer unique mechanical properties, and recent advancements in material science have introduced functionally graded materials (FGMs) as a novel class with spatially optimized properties. The design freedom offered by additive manufacturing techniques makes them ideal for producing complex NPT structures. Specifically, Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) has been explored to produce NPTs, but examples remain limited, and the use of FGMs in NPT design is largely unexplored. This study investigates the use of FFF and elastomers, specifically thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), to produce bicycle-sized NPTs. TPU is a promising material for NPTs mostly due to its recyclability and reusability compared to traditional rubber. Four honeycomb-based NPT designs varying in cell orientation and the presence of radial grading were developed. Vertical stiffness and energy absorption capabilities were experimentally analysed under compression. Results indicate that graded structures exhibited greater specific mechanical properties compared to uniform structures, with the highest performance observed in graded designs with horizontally oriented cells and the lowest in uniform designs with vertical cells. Additionally, an elastoplastic material model, defined by a bi-linear stress-strain relationship was employed to simulate the initial vertical behaviour of the NPTs, achieving a reasonable agreement with experimental results, with deviations ranging from 7% to 29%. These findings demonstrate the potential of using FFF to produce NPTs, and that the insights provided can help advance NPT technology.
Adapt and overcome: The impact of adaptive frames in news stories on climate change skeptics and acceptors
Authors: Thorson Esther , Coleman Renita , Tham Samuel M , Chen Weiyue , Glenn Adam
Published: February 2025

This experiment test the effects of framing of climate change and finds that news stories that do not discuss the man-made cause of climate change, and do not use trigger words such as “global warming” and “climate change” are significantly better at overcoming climate skeptics’ resistance to them, leading them to agree with the story’s perspective and feel optimistic about a community’s efforts to deal with climate impacts. This process is mediated by increased perceived credibility of the story and journalists.
Short-term load forecasting based on conditional generating adversarial networks
Authors: Chang Dongxing
Published: February 2025

With the promotion of power market reform, accurate short-term load forecasting is of great significance for power systems to formulate reasonable production plans and ensure safe operation of the power grid. At present, the power grids have brought great challenges to load forecasting, and due to the need of production, a large number of nonlinear, asymmetric, and impact loads are connected to the power grid, so it is difficult for traditional power load forecasting methods to fully and accurately characterize the load characteristics. In order to learn the complex hidden deep relationship in nonlinear load data and improve the prediction accuracy, this paper proposed a method based on conditional generative adversarial networks (CGANs). This method used a convolutional neural network to construct a generative model and a discriminant model, took the load influencing factor as a condition. Through the game training of the confrontation network, the generation model can learn the mapping relationship between the noise and the real load data, to perform short-term load forecasting. The validation was conducted using a dataset from a certain power plant, and the experimental results showed that the trained CGAN has strong ability to learn load temporal features and has high prediction accuracy in different scenarios. The subsequent work will analyze the characteristics of different types of load data and consider the impact of real-time electricity prices and other factors on load prediction, so as to further improve the prediction accuracy and universality of the model.
Art-based research on performative ways of portraying lived experiences: The dance film “POSI+IVE”
Authors: Tsompanaki Eleni , Pallas Haris
Published: February 2025

Acknowledging the diverse ways of knowing and communicating knowledge, this article suggests that community dance and cinematography can be powerful tools for sharing lived experiences. The research involved a community of 80 individuals, ages 5–50 years old, during the COVID-19 pandemic and under the strict measures of quarantine. Art-based research was the most suitable methodology for this research, as it gave the opportunity to embodied experiences to be analyzed. Focus group interviews, research diary, online dance improvisation classes and a production of a dance, feature film titled “POSI + IVE” were the methods used. The results showed that this creative, artistic project, especially during difficult times, fostered self-awareness, development of empathy for others and raised a sense of belonging to a community. Most importantly, the research empowered the participants to express themselves through movement, their “voices” to be heard and to become co-researchers.
Comparative Analysis of Concurrent vs Sequential Administration of anti-PD-1 Following Thoracic Radiotherapy: Impact on Lung Tissue Damage
Authors: Yan Peng , Wang Zewen , Wang Yufeng , Liu Yongliang , Tong Anna , Sun Meili
Published: February 2025

The combination of thoracic radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) had demonstrated a synergistic therapeutic effect, albeit with the occurrence of overlapping pulmonary toxicities. We established a mouse model using programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) antibody at different time points after thoracic radiotherapy. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, as well as TUNEL staining, were utilized for the morphological assessment of lung tissue damage. Inflammatory cells and cytokines present in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were analyzed using flow cytometry and cytometric bead array immunoassay (CBA). Additionally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence (IF) staining were conducted to observe the infiltration of inflammatory cells in lung tissue. Immediate administration of PD-1 antibody after thoracic radiotherapy resulted in more severe lung tissue injury compared to delayed administration. Concurrent treatment led to an increase in lymphocytes and neutrophils in BALF, as well as higher levels of inflammatory cytokines. IHC and IF analysis revealed that neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes were more prominent in the concurrent treatment group. A more severe lung injury occurred when PD-1 antibody was given simultaneously with thoracic radiotherapy, possibly due to increased inflammation caused by the combination treatment.
Analyzing the association between menstrual coitus and endometriosis’ pathogenesis: A narrative review
Authors: Cetera Giulia Emily , Punzi Maria Carmen , Merli Camilla Erminia Maria , Vercellini Paolo
Published: February 2025

Across studies, the percentage of individuals reporting regularly engaging in menstrual coitus ranges between 4% and 43%. Although no clinical guideline recommends avoiding sexual activity during menstruation, according to some researchers such practice may favor both retrograde menstruation and sexually transmitted diseases, two phenomena that are thought to play a role in endometriosis’ pathogenesis. Given this background, we analyzed the existing evidence regarding the association between menstrual coitus and the prevalence of endometriosis by conducting a PubMed database search on February 15, 2024. We considered all original, full-length studies written in English. Results were conflicting. When interviewing 489 infertile women, Filer and Wu found that the frequency of surgically diagnosed endometriosis was significantly higher among those engaging in menstrual coitus (17.5% versus 10.9%; p < 0.05). In their case-control study on 555 women with ( n = 185) and without ( n = 370) endometriosis, Mollazadeh and co-workers confirmed an increased risk of endometriosis among those engaging in menstrual coitus compared to those who did not (OR 5.23; 95% CI 2.16–12.66). However, in Meaddough and colleagues’ retrospective case-control study on 2012 women, with ( n = 1517) and without ( n = 495) endometriosis, menstrual coitus was significantly less frequent in women with endometriosis compared to controls (27% versus 35%; p = 0.002). Treloar and co-workers also failed to prove such an association. The evidence available at the present moment is insufficient to confirm the hypothesis that menstrual coitus plays a role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.
Evolution of physical characteristics from 2010 to 2022 in the England women's cricket team
Authors: Durrant Ian , Wedatilake Thamindu , Warren Anna , Callaghan Samuel J , Osguthorpe David , Harland Andrew , Howe Louis P , Tallent Jamie
Published: February 2025

The present study aimed to investigate the changes in the physical profile of the England women's cricket team over a 13-year period. Physical profiles of 45 female players were retrospectively analysed from 2010 to 2022. Mixed linear modelling was employed to examine changes in various physical parameters including 10 m and 20 m sprints, countermovement jump (CMJ) height, aerobic fitness (measured through the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1, Yo-Yo-IR1), and push and pull strength endurance across time. There was a significant increase in Yo-Yo IR1 performance over time (P < 0.001), with the distance covered improving from 1077 metres in 2011 to 1666 metres in 2014. Both 10 m (P < 0.001) and 20 m (P < 0.001) sprint times significantly improved up to 2014. Furthermore, there were significant increases in push (P < 0.001) and pull (P < 0.001) strength endurance across time. However, no significant changes were observed in run-2 performance. Although there were significant changes (P < 0.001) in CMJ height across time, no clear trends were evident for year-to-year changes. Overall, the study demonstrated a significant physical evolution of the England Women's Cricket Team over 13 years, characterised by high aerobic fitness and upper body strength endurance. Future physical development should therefore focus on developing speed and change of direction qualities.
Temporal analysis of elite men's doubles beach tennis matches
Authors: Lima Guilherme Ribeiro , Carminatti Lorival Jose , Turnes Tiago
Published: February 2025

Beach tennis (BT) is a fast-paced racket sport played by two teams of two players on a sand court. Despite its growing popularity, limited data exist on match dynamics, especially regarding active play duration and work-to-rest ratios in high-level BT. This study aimed to describe the temporal characteristics and work-to-rest ratios of elite men's doubles BT matches. Official videos of all finals from the World Championship and Sand Series during the 2022/2023 season of the professional World BT Tour were analyzed. Metrics recorded included match, set, game, and point durations, work-to-rest ratios, points per match, touches per point, and game speed. Seven final matches with ten elite players were analyzed. Matches lasted 1 h 16 min 41.71 s ± 12 min 30.05 s, with only 06 min 32.55 s ± 1 min 12.26 s (8.6%) spent in active play. The work-to-rest ratio ranged from 1:8 to 1:12. Each match had 106 ± 10 points, with 4.6 ± 0.5 touches per point, and points were completed in 3.65 ± 0.5 s, averaging one touch every 0.79 ± 0.04 s. Elite men's BT is characterized by short, high-intensity points with a work-to-rest ratio of 1:8 to 1:12, which has implications for training strategies focused on bursts of high-intensity efforts and recovery periods.
Mental toughness in elite adolescent football players: Exploring the role of motivational climate and coach-athlete relationships
Authors: da Silva Sara Mesquita , Felton Luke , Dias Cláudia S. , Fonseca António
Published: February 2025

Mental toughness is an important predictor of desirable outcomes in sport, and so an essential mental ability for young athletes to develop. However, it remains unclear how mental toughness relates to distinct-yet-interacting features of several team psychosocial contexts, such as the motivational climate and the quality of coach-athlete relationship. This cross-sectional study tested the relative roles of coach-created motivational climate and coach-athlete relationship, and their interaction, in predicting variance in athlete mental toughness. Participants were 140 male elite adolescent athletes (aged 12 to 17 years) from the youth academy of a Portuguese Premier League football club. Hierarchical linear regressions showed that athletes’ perceptions of an empowering coach-created motivational climate did not account for additional variance in mental toughness beyond that accounted for by coach-athlete relationship. In contrast, coach-athlete relationship accounted for additional variance beyond an empowering coach-created motivational climate. These results suggest that the concept of quality coach-athlete relationships is embedded within good coach leadership and highlight its relevance over broader motivational climate for healthy psychological development in youth athletes. A moderation analysis revealed a significant interaction between empowering coach-created motivational climate and coach-athlete relationship, with the positive association between empowering coach-created motivational climate and mental toughness increasing as coach-athlete relationship increased in quality. This result implies that the positive effect of motivational climate on mental toughness depends on there being high quality coach-athlete relationships. Future psychological interventions aimed at increasing mental toughness in young athletes should also contemplate the quality of coach-athlete relationship.
Adherence to HIV vertical transmission prevention (VTP) policies in a tertiary-level obstetric unit in South Africa
Authors: Zamparini Jarrod , Hassan Sulaiman , Davies Natasha , Herbst Wilhelm , Bhoora Shastra , Nyakoe Robert , Chauke Lawrence
Published: February 2025

Background

HIV disproportionately affects women of childbearing age in South Africa. Despite progress in antiretroviral therapy access, challenges persist in HIV vertical transmission prevention (VTP).

Methods

We conducted a single-centre, retrospective observational audit of women delivering between May and August 2023 at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa to assess adherence to national VTP guidelines.

Results

Of 563 women, 22% (125/563) were living with HIV at their first antenatal visit, increasing to 24.3% (137/563) by delivery. HIV retesting rates declined from 46% (181/394) at the second visit to 20% (30/151) by the eighth. HIV viral load testing was performed in 71.5% of women (98/137) at delivery, with 72.4% (71/98) achieving viral suppression. Birth PCR testing was not performed for 21.1% (29/137) of HIV-exposed infants.

Conclusion

Significant gaps in HIV retesting, viral load monitoring, and birth PCR testing highlight ongoing challenges in VTP guideline adherence.
Infection prevention behaviour among hospital nursing staff: Navigating in a complex and shifting work environment
Authors: Arvidsson Lisa , Lindberg Maria , Skytt Bernice
Published: February 2025

Background

Healthcare-associated infections are a global concern and can be dependent on the infection prevention behaviours of nursing staff, which in turn can be influenced by working conditions. Qualitative studies are scarce, and a greater understanding of the relationship between working conditions and nursing staff behaviour is needed.

Aim

The aim was to describe nursing staff’s experiences and reflections on working conditions and infection prevention behaviours.

Methods

A qualitative study with semi-structured focus group interviews at four surgical units and two orthopaedic hospital units. Twenty-seven nursing staff (12 registered nurses and 15 assistant nurses) participated. Data was analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

We generated one theme: Navigating in a complex and shifting context. The result indicates that working conditions are sometimes inadequate, which can hinder the nursing staff’s infection prevention behaviours. Even when working conditions seemed to be sufficient, hygiene routines could fail, since situations constantly arise in a hospital unit that are difficult to predict and regulate.

Discussion

This study highlights the complexities faced by nursing staff in maintaining infection prevention behaviours within the dynamic hospital work environment. While nursing staff are professionally obliged to comply with hygiene routines, organisational support is essential for fostering sustainable working conditions. A multi-tiered approach is needed, from first-line managers to decision-makers, to promote a supportive environment that sustains safe practices.
Reference Values and Construct Validity for 4 Upper Limb Physical Performance Tests in Junior Tennis Players
Authors: Cools Ann M. , Stubbe Jasper , Vanden Bosch Dominiek , Carlier Loïc , Notable Cédric , Borms Dorien
Published: February 2025

Background:

Upper extremity physical-performance-tests are gaining interest for screening overhead athletes in view of injury prevention, individual performance, and return to play after injury. However, at present, no reference data are available for these tests in a junior tennis population. In addition, the construct validity of these tests with respect to shoulder strength is still unclear.

Hypothesis:

Junior tennis players will exhibit differences in test performance based on age, sex, and side. Shoulder strength will be moderately to highly correlated with the seated medicine ball throw (SMBT) and the modified-closed-kinetic-chain-upper-extremity test (M-CKCUEST), but not with shoulder endurance test (SET) and the Y-balance-test-upper-quadrant (YBT-UQ).

Study Design:

Descriptive study, cross-sectional design.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Four commonly used physical performance tests (PPTs) (YBT-UQ, M-CKCUEST, SMBT, and SET) were executed by 99 junior tennis players aged 9 to 18 years. In addition, isometric external and internal rotation strength was measured, using a hand-held dynamometer. Descriptive reference values were reported, and correlations between the PPTs and strength values were calculated.

Results:

A linear regression model with backwards stepwise regression was used to identify possible age, sex, and side differences regarding PPTs and strength. Some, but not all reached statistical significance. Moderate-to-high correlations (Pearson correlation coefficients) were found between the M-CKCUEST, SMBT, and SET and strength measurements, establishing acceptable construct validity with respect to strength. No significant correlation was found between the YBT-UQ and strength.

Conclusion:

Junior tennis players exhibit differences in test performance based on age, sex, and side. The MCKCUEST, SMBT, and SET may be valuable alternatives for strength testing in the clinical setting.

Clinical Relevance:

These tests may provide a valuable, user-friendly alternative for strength measurements in junior tennis players.