bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of Probation Officer Procedural Justice and Recidivism: A Longitudinal Study in the Netherlands
Authors: Van Hall Matthias , Baker Thomas , Dirkzwager Anja J. E. , Nieuwbeerta Paul
Published: April 2024

The importance of procedural justice for reducing offending behavior has been demonstrated in numerous contexts and among various criminal justice authorities. However, to date, few studies have evaluated the importance of procedural justice in the probation officer–client relationship. Understanding how to reduce offending and prevent recidivism among people on probation is important as this group represents people among the most likely to engage in future offending. Using longitudinal data from the Prison Project, this study examines the association between perceptions of probation officer procedural justice, felt obligation to obey the law, and recidivism during a 12-month follow-up period. Results indicate that procedural justice is associated with a greater felt obligation to obey the law and lower odds of recidivism. Like other criminal justice authorities, how probation officers interact with their clients may impact their clients’ offending behavior.
Robust H∞ consensus for uncertain linear multi-agent systems on directed topologies: A dynamic event-triggered strategy
Authors: Weng Yihang , Xie Zhifeng , Ma Ji , Hu Wenfeng
Published: April 2024

Considering the asymmetry of the system matrix caused by directed communication networks, a dynamic event-triggered control protocol for the robust [Formula: see text] consensus of uncertain linear multi-agent systems accompanied by external disturbances on directed topologies is proposed. Through the introduction of the controlled output and generalized algebraic connectivity for directed graphs, the consensus problem is converted to the event-triggered stabilization of the uncertain linear closed-loop system with disturbance. On the basis of the relative state of neighbor agents at event-times and the introduced dynamic variables, a dynamic event-triggered control protocol is put forward, and the linear matrix inequality sufficient conditions for the system to achieve robust [Formula: see text] consensus are obtained after a rigorous proof. Then, linear matrix inequalities are further decoupled to greatly reduce the computational complexity, and the parameters of the control protocol are determined by solving the decoupled linear matrix inequalities. Finally, simulations are applied for the verification of conclusions.
CIBSE TM54 energy projections I: A case study using quasi-steady state modelling
Authors: Jain Nishesh , Burman Esfand , Mumovic Dejan
Published: April 2024

CIBSE TM54 was recently revised and covers best practice methods to evaluate the operational energy use of buildings. TM54 is a guidance document that can be used for performance evaluation at every stage of the design and construction process, and during the occupied stage, to ensure that long-term operational performance aligns with the design intent. The main performance evaluation principles in TM54 are a step-by-step modelling approach and scenario testing, to improve the robustness of the design proposal calculations. The latest edition of this technical memorandum brings an updated perspective to the modelling approaches, including detailed Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) modelling and simulation. It also incorporates more detailed guidance around risks, target setting, scenario testing and sensitivity analysis. A case study approach is used to explore and demonstrate some important aspects described in TM54. TM54 recommends three modelling approaches (aka implementation routes) that a project can follow depending on its scale and complexity: using quasi-steady state tools; dynamic simulation with a template HVAC system; and dynamic simulation with detailed HVAC system modelling. As part of a series of three, this case study provides an application of the first implementation route: modelling using quasi-steady state tools.

Practical Application

This case study provides detailed guidance on undertaking CIBSE TM54 modelling and projecting design stage building performance. The study covers the interpretation and clarifications of how TM54 can be applied, through the quasi-steady-state modelling tools.
Racism, epistemic injustice, and ideology critique
Authors: Bufkin Sarah
Published: April 2024

Since its 2007 publication, Miranda Fricker’s Epistemic Injustice has sparked a vigorous conversation in analytic philosophy about how social power corrodes individual’s epistemic capacities and distorts collective meaning-making in unjust ways. Yet for all its normative insights into social silencing, I argue that Fricker’s theorization of epistemic dysfunction remains too individualized, cognitivist, and dematerialized to account for racialized imaginaries. Rather than view racisms as normal and normative in racist cultures, Fricker frames identity-driven prejudice as a troubling aberration from otherwise unblemished epistemic and moral norms. This leads her into adopting an overly voluntarist and idealist theory of social change that centres training better knowers rather than unmaking racialized worlds. Ultimately, I contend that we should return to a materialist theory of ideology, following the work of Stuart Hall. Doing so jettisons the narrow focus on individual epistemic failures and instead problematizes how certain social ideas consolidate and reproduce racial hierarchies.
Prevalence and Risk of Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Toomukuntla Sindhu , Vemula Chandra Vamshi , Spoorthy Mamidipalli Sai , Zaki Syed Ahmed , Tikka Sai Krishna
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are understood to have neuroinflammatory/neuro-immunological basis in their etiopathogenesis. There are few studies synthesizing the association of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), a common immunological disorder.

Data Collection and Analysis:

We performed meta-analyses of studies assessing the prevalence and risk of schizophrenia and related disorders and bipolar disorder in individuals with T1DM. Fifteen studies consisting of a total sample of 9,768,028 (T1DM: 435,553; non-T1DM controls: 9,332,475) were included. Random-effects meta-analyses using the restricted maximum likelihood method for pooling logit transformed prevalence values and the Mantel–Haenszel test for pooling risk ratios were used. I2 statistic and the rank correlation test for Funnel plots’ asymmetry were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively.

Results:

Pooled (transformed-back-transformed) prevalence for schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders was 0.37% (95%CI: 0.19–0.73), and for bipolar disorder it was 0.39% (95%CI: 0.05–2.99) (together: 0.38% (95%CI: 0.2–0.71)] in T1DM. The prevalence models showed significant heterogeneity but were statistically significant, had low publication bias, and survived sensitivity analysis. The pooled risk ratio for schizophrenia and related disorders together with bipolar disorder was 1.80 (95%CI: 0.64–5.03), and for schizophrenia and related disorders alone it was 1.19 (95%CI: 0.46–3.11), indicating higher rates of these disorders in T1DM. The pooled risk ratios were not statistically significant and did not survive sensitivity analysis. Trial sequential analysis suggested the need for more studies to confirm increased risk.

Conclusion:

With available studies, we could not provide convincing evidence for the hypothesis that the prevalence and risk of schizophrenia and related disorders and bipolar disorder are significantly greater in individuals with T1DM.
A Comparative Study of Internalized Stigma in Patients with Schizophrenia and Bipolar Affective Disorder in Remission
Authors: Borhade Shraddha Rajendra , Mishra Kshirod Kumar , John Sally
Published: April 2024

Background:

Internalized stigma experienced by individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder dramatically affects their overall quality of life. While several studies have explored this topic, there remains a scarcity of research comparing internalized stigma across both these illnesses. We investigated and compared how internalized stigma is associated with different socio-demographic factors among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder in remission.

Aim:

To carry out a comparative study of the internalized stigma experienced by patients with schizophrenia and bipolar affective disorder in remission.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 106 patients with schizophrenia and 53 with bipolar affective disorder (BPAD) in remission underwent assessment using the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Scale (ISMIS), Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS).

Results:

The study revealed that internalized stigma was significantly more ( p value = .0001) in patients with schizophrenia (84.84 ± 6.02) compared to those with BPAD (78.55 ± 6.07). Further analysis of the ISMIS domains revealed significant correlations between internalized stigma and stereotype endorsement ( p value = .005), stigma resistance ( p value = .009), social withdrawal ( p value = .0001), and alienation ( p value = .0001).

Conclusion:

The study suggests that individuals with schizophrenia experience higher levels of internalized stigma in comparison to those with BPAD.
Rating Patients in Different Languages: Reliability and Validity
Authors: Andrade Chittaranjan
Published: April 2024

Research outcomes in mental health disciplines are usually assessed using rating instruments that were developed as English language versions. However, in countries such as India, English is not the native language, and patients at even a single research center may speak in different regional tongues. It is permissible to assess such patients using rater-administered English language instruments designed to be scored after an unstructured interview conducted in the patient’s preferred language. For many reasons, related to reliability and validity, it is not permissible to assess such patients in their preferred language by translating, impromptu, from English language versions of instruments that were designed to be self-administered or administered as a structured interview. In such situations, standardized, local language versions of the instruments should be used; that is, local language versions with established reliability and validity.
Effect of titanium interlayer configurations on residual stresses and performance of titanium/titanium nitride multilayer coatings
Authors: Ali Rashid , Faizi Talha , Abbas Syed Zameer , Khan Muhammad Imran
Published: April 2024

Multilayer coatings provide an effective measure to control and optimise of residual stresses, enhance coating adhesion, fracture toughness, wear and corrosion resistance of coating system. In this study, we designed and produced bi-layer and four-layer titanium/titanium nitride magnetron sputtered coating configurations by altering the position of the interlayer. The in-plane residual stresses in different coating configurations are measured by multiple peak grazing incidence X-ray diffraction techniques. Subsequently, the effect of different compressive residual stresses on adhesion, mechanical properties, wear and corrosion resistance of coatings are investigated. Results show that the position of interlayer in multilayer coating configuration has a great impact on relaxation of residual stresses. The residual stresses are relieved by 26% and 46% by lowering the position of titanium interlayer from 800 nm at the top to 1000 nm and 1200 nm, respectively. The nanoindentation hardness is decreased by 11% and 13%, respectively. The wear rate of multilayer coating having interlayer position at 800 and 1000 nm from the top is ≈ 23% lower compared to bilayer however it is increased by ≈ 50% when interlayer coatings position changed to 1200 nm from the top. The interposition of interlayer in multilayer coating configurations decreased the corrosion current density by ≈ 50%. All multilayer coatings including higher residual stresses show better adhesion to the substrate compared to bilayer coatings which shows severe delamination.
Collective Intelligence Increases Diagnostic Accuracy in a General Practice Setting
Authors: Blanchard Matthew D. , Herzog Stefan M. , Kämmer Juliane E. , Zöller Nikolas , Kostopoulou Olga , Kurvers Ralf H. J. M.
Published: April 2024

Background

General practitioners (GPs) work in an ill-defined environment where diagnostic errors are prevalent. Previous research indicates that aggregating independent diagnoses can improve diagnostic accuracy in a range of settings. We examined whether aggregating independent diagnoses can also improve diagnostic accuracy for GP decision making. In addition, we investigated the potential benefit of such an approach in combination with a decision support system (DSS).

Methods

We simulated virtual groups using data sets from 2 previously published studies. In study 1, 260 GPs independently diagnosed 9 patient cases in a vignette-based study. In study 2, 30 GPs independently diagnosed 12 patient actors in a patient-facing study. In both data sets, GPs provided diagnoses in a control condition and/or DSS condition(s). Each GP’s diagnosis, confidence rating, and years of experience were entered into a computer simulation. Virtual groups of varying sizes (range: 3–9) were created, and different collective intelligence rules (plurality, confidence, and seniority) were applied to determine each group’s final diagnosis. Diagnostic accuracy was used as the performance measure.

Results

Aggregating independent diagnoses by weighing them equally (i.e., the plurality rule) substantially outperformed average individual accuracy, and this effect increased with increasing group size. Selecting diagnoses based on confidence only led to marginal improvements, while selecting based on seniority reduced accuracy. Combining the plurality rule with a DSS further boosted performance.

Discussion

Combining independent diagnoses may substantially improve a GP’s diagnostic accuracy and subsequent patient outcomes. This approach did, however, not improve accuracy in all patient cases. Therefore, future work should focus on uncovering the conditions under which collective intelligence is most beneficial in general practice.

Highlights

We examined whether aggregating independent diagnoses of GPs can improve diagnostic accuracy. Using data sets of 2 previously published studies, we composed virtual groups of GPs and combined their independent diagnoses using 3 collective intelligence rules (plurality, confidence, and seniority). Aggregating independent diagnoses by weighing them equally substantially outperformed average individual GP accuracy, and this effect increased with increasing group size. Combining independent diagnoses may substantially improve GP’s diagnostic accuracy and subsequent patient outcomes.
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis or its mimic? A case report
Authors: Major Tamás , Nagy Gábor , Szabó Judit , Mózes Huba , Szűcs Gabriella , Szekanecz Zoltán , Szamosi Szilvia
Published: April 2024

Differentiation between granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) limited to the upper airways and cocaine-induced midline destructive lesion (CIMDL) may be particularly difficult because of their common histopathologic features and antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) profiles. We herein present a case involving a young woman with an initial diagnosis of GPA based on upper and lower airway manifestations and constitutional symptoms, histopathologic evidence of granulomas, a positive cytoplasmic ANCA indirect immunofluorescent test result, and proteinase 3 positivity by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). CIMDL was confirmed based on the appearance of a hard palate perforation, positivity for methylecgonine on urine toxicology, a positive perinuclear ANCA indirect immunofluorescent test result, and subsequent human neutrophil elastase (HNE) ANCA positivity by ELISA. Finally, based on the coexistence of CIMDL, constitutional symptoms, and lower airway manifestations, the diagnosis was modified to cocaine-induced GPA mimic. Urine toxicology for cocaine and HNE ELISA are indicated in young patients with GPA who develop limited airway disease to check for the presence of CIMDL and cocaine-/levamisole-induced ANCA-associated vasculitis. Continued abstinence from cocaine is the first-choice therapy for both CIMDL and cocaine-induced GPA mimic.
Class Experience Mobility through Consumption, Work, and Relationships
Authors: Laemmli Taylor
Published: April 2024

Sociological analyses of class mobility focus on enduring class movement. How might we reconceptualize class mobility to capture more shifting experiences of class? I propose a new way to theorize class mobility that is oriented toward the analysis of short-term class mobility. Class experience mobility (CEM) is a form of class mobility in which people temporarily access a class lifestyle that does not correspond to their class position, tasting another life before returning to their own. In this theory-building article, I first conceptualize CEM, situating it relative to mainstream class analysis. I then describe six class experience processes that enable temporary upward class mobility through consumption, work, and relationships. Finally, I show how the processes by which people engage in CEM can serve as mechanisms shaping long-term class mobility and people’s classed self-understandings.
An Exploration of Geographic Access to Substance Use Treatment Programs and Violence Against Women
Authors: St. Vil Noelle M. , Haley Danielle F. , Montgomery Brooke , Williams Michael , Watson Lakeshia , Zhang Shuaiqi , Wingood Gina M.
Published: April 2024

Violence against women (VAW) is a significant public health and human rights issue, with an estimated 736 million women globally experiencing VAW. Consistent evidence demonstrates that substance use is associated with VAW and that participation in substance use treatment programs is associated with reduction in substance use-related violence. While evidence demonstrates the ability to address VAW through substance use treatment programs, less attention has been paid to geographic access to substance use programs. If these programs are geographically inaccessible, particularly to marginalized populations, many people will not get the help they need. This study seeks to explore the relationship between geographic access to substance use treatment programs on VAW. Using data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 064 study, longitudinal multilevel models were used to assess the relationship between neighborhood-level social determinants, with a specific focus on geographic access to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) certified drug and alcohol treatment programs and VAW. The study included 1910 women, ages 18 to 44, living in select geographic areas with high-ranked prevalence of HIV and poverty. The findings of this study indicate that among women who reside in census tracts with high prevalence rates of HIV: (1) substance use increases VAW; (2) VAW decreases as geographic access to SAMHSA-certified drug and alcohol treatment facilities increases; and (3) when looking at specific types of VAW, emotional and physical abuse decreases as geographic access to substance use treatment increases. Policies and programs to increase access to substance use treatment should be explored and evaluated, and more programs are needed that address the intersectionality of substance use and VAW.
Sex Differences in Delirium after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery and Perioperative Neuropsychiatric Conditions: A Secondary Analysis of a Cohort Study
Authors: Oldham Mark A. , Kukla Bennett , Walsh Patrick , Lee Hochang B
Published: April 2024

Background

Biological sex influences the risk of depression and cognitive impairment, but its role in relation to postoperative delirium is unclear. This analysis investigates sex differences in delirium risk after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and sex-related differences in relation to affective and cognitive symptoms.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of the Neuropsychiatric Outcomes After Heart Surgery (NOAHS) study, a single-site, observational study of a CABG surgery cohort (n = 149). Preoperative characteristics are stratified by sex, and baseline variables that differ by sex are evaluated to understand whether sex modifies their relationships with delirium. We also evaluate sex differences in one-month depression and cognition.

Results

Female sex is associated with several delirium risk factors, including higher risk of preoperative depression and middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis. MCA stenosis was statistically associated with delirium only among women (OR 15.6, 95% CI 1.5, 164.4); mild cognitive impairment (MCI) was associated with delirium only in men (OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.2, 17.9). Other sex-based differences failed to reach statistical significance. Depression remained commoner among women 1 month post-CABG.

Conclusions

Women in this CABG cohort were more likely to have depression at baseline and 1 month postoperatively, as well as MCA stenosis and postoperative delirium. Sex might modify the relationship between post-CABG delirium and its risk factors including MCA stenosis and MCI. Cerebrovascular disease deserves study as a potential explanation linking female sex and a range of poor outcomes among women with coronary heart disease.
Societal Roles of Nonprofit Organizations: Parsonian Echoes and Luhmannian Reframing of the Organization–Society Interface
Authors: Maier Florentine , Meyer Michael , Burkart Christian , Terzieva Berta
Published: April 2024

Nonprofit organizations (NPOs) have long been recognized as playing vital roles in society. Nevertheless, a coherent understanding of how these roles align with broader social theory, and how to conceptualize the interface between nonprofits and society is still lacking. In pursuit of a solid theoretical foundation, we conducted a systematic literature review encompassing 119 publications spanning from 1959 to 2021 that delve into the societal roles of NPOs. We reason that much of prior research has implicitly adhered to a functionalist perspective akin to that proposed by Talcott Parsons nearly seven decades ago. Our review identifies four overarching societal roles fulfilled by NPOs: service delivery, advocacy, integration, and the development of cultural patterns. Recognizing the limitations of Parsonian functionalism, we advocate for a shift toward a neo-functionalist, systems-theoretical framing to allow for an analysis of societal functions that is more sensitive to the heterogeneity and contradictions pervasive in contemporary society.
Optimization of single-track deposits in wire arc-based direct energy deposition of ER110S-G steel using MONS-MFO and TOPSIS algorithms
Authors: Le Van Thao , Nguyen Thuy Duong , Hoang Tien-Dat , Nguyen Van Canh
Published: April 2024

Wire and arc-based direct energy deposition (wire and arc DED) is a promising metallic additively manufacturing (MAM) technology to fabricate large-size metallic components. Among high-strength-low-alloy steels used in wire and arc DED processes, ER110S-G is a commonly used material. However, previous studies have often relied on process parameters recommended by suppliers for conventional welding methods. This study aims to predict the optimum processing parameters for the manufacture of ER110S-G steel by a wire and arc DED process based on experiment and multi-attribute optimization algorithms. The experiment was designed using the full factorial method with the input variables ( U– voltage, I– current, and v– traveling speed) while considering three attributes of single tracks ( STW– single track width, STH– single track height, and LMP– length of melting pool). To find the optimal processing variables, MONS-MFO (Multi-Objective Non-Sorted Moth Flame) was utilized. The outcomes reveal that the developed predictive models of attributes feature a high accurate level ( R2 = 98.11%, 98.38%, and 98.07% for STW, STH, and LMP, respectively). The optimal parameters obtained by MONS-MFO & TOPSIS were I = 159.4 A, v = 0.3 m/min, and U = 21.4 V allow fabricating single tracks with smooth and regular shape and a s-shaped thin-wall component with regular shape and height. Moreover, no spatters generated with the optimal parameters, demonstrating their suitability and efficiency for the printing process.
A study on motion characteristics of the forced vibration of a floating body in two-degree-of-freedom machine gun system with impact and momentum offset
Authors: Wang Yang , Xu Cheng , He Long , Cao Yanfeng
Published: April 2024

Floating technology is an emerging firearm recoil reduction technique. Firearms utilizing this technology differ significantly from traditional firearm systems, featuring distinctive characteristics of a two-degree-of-freedom system. This paper presents a novel model for this floating principle machine gun, incorporating a bi-directional buffer spring. The model is established and validated against experimental results. The experiment reveals both the floating body and the automaton body exhibit quasi-harmonic motion with some randomness. An observed impact and momentum offset between the floating body and the automaton body show an offset efficiency of 29%. The stiffness of the two springs is thoroughly analyzed regarding its influence on the floating characteristics, especially the backward ending state of the bi-direction floating body, offset efficiency, and triggering consistency. Increasing the stiffness of the bi-direction floating spring raises the bi-direction floating body’s motion frequency, resulting in a delayed phase at triggering time. Likewise, augmenting the automaton spring stiffness increases its motion frequency and advances the bi-direction floating body’s phase at triggering time. These adjustments affect the relative phase between the bi-direction floating body and the automaton body, thus impacting the backward ending state, offset efficiency, and consistency.
Optimizing SLM process parameters using FE analysis for distortion mitigation
Authors: Nhaichaniya Gajendra Kumar , Bansal Anshul Kumar , Singh Chandra Pal , Shahid Mohd.
Published: April 2024

The investigation aimed to determine the optimal value of process parameters to minimize distortion while reducing the overall printing time. To achieve this, different combinations of process parameters are selected, and 25 sets of FE experiments are prepared using an orthogonal matrix. The coupled thermomechanical analysis with the element birth technique is used to mimic the behavior of Selective Laser Melting (SLM). Initially, a mesh convergence study is performed to reduce computation time with the least sacrifice in results. To minimize the temperature gradient, simulations are performed at different levels of bed temperature ranging from 303 K to 843 K. The minimum distortion was observed for a higher bed temperature of 843 K, as at this temperature, the gradient in temperature is minimum, resulting in the least development of residual stresses. The interactive behavior between laser power and scanning speed is studied, revealing an approximately linear trend with respect to distortion while keeping all other parameters constant. Additionally, it was observed that laser power and layer thickness also exhibited a similar linear trend with respect to distortion. To identify the optimal process parameter value within the design space, the Multi-Island Genetic Algorithms (MIGA) technique is employed, leading to a remarkable minimum distortion of 0.45 mm for a specific set of input process parameters.
Experimental investigation on large clearance shaft seal for gas-liquid mixtures
Authors: Xu Yiren , Cao Hengchao , Zhao Juying , Sun Nannan , Li Yongjian , Wang Yuming
Published: April 2024

In order to find a solution for the oil leakage problem of a large clearance shaft seal on a marine diesel engine, a series of improvement measures were proposed based on the mechanisms of centrifugal separation, reverse pumping, oil groove and staggered labyrinth. A shaft seal test system that can simulate the gas-liquid environment was built, and verification tests were conducted. Test results showed that the oil leakage didn’t decrease after adding radial or inclined ribs on the oil slinger but increased significantly instead. Adding an oil groove on the oil baffle also didn’t reduce any oil leakage. Fortunately, the addition of the staggered labyrinth effectively reduced the oil leakage. By combining with CFD simulation, the test results were explained, and the sealing functions of different structural features were studied. For structural design work of the non-contact shaft seal, the following design suggestions were proposed. First, the centrifugal effect on the liquid medium can be enhanced by adding ribs on the oil slinger, but the obstruction of oil return should be avoided at the same time. Second, the rotational speed should be fully considered when using the reverse pumping effect. Third, the oil guide groove should be adapted to the airflow and rotation state at its location. Finally, the staggered labyrinth has a stronger throttling effect compared with the straight-through labyrinth, which can reduce the outward transportation of oil by airflow.
Pulsatile flow and peristaltic motion interaction of Walter’s B liquid
Authors: Anasuya J Bala , Srinivas Suripeddi
Published: April 2024

This work focuses on the interaction of peristaltic with the induced periodic flow of Walters B liquid in a channel with porous space. The model takes into account the impact of Hall current. In order to solve the governing flow equations, the amplitude ratio (wave amplitude/channel width) is used as a parameter in the perturbation technique. The impact related to various parameters on the velocity distribution, stress at the walls and streamline patterns have been examined using graphical representation. Our analysis indicates that with a rise of the Hall current parameter, the velocity of the fluid enhances whereas by rising the Hartmann number, we observed a fall in the velocity. Further, the size of the trapping bolus grows with the rise of the Hall parameter and Reynolds number. The size of the bolus, on the other hand, decreases as the viscoelastic parameter rises. To validate the model, the analytical solution derived has been compared with that of Afifi and Gad (Acta Mechanica 149, 229–237 (2001)), and the outcomes show remarkable agreement.
Urban labs beyond Europe: the formation and contextualization of experimental climate governance in five Latin American cities
Authors: Roll Michael , Almansi Florencia , Hardoy Jorgelina , Gatti Simone , Samios Ariadne , Turmena Lucas , Campos Mariana , Zubicaray Gorka
Published: April 2024

The urban lab is an experimental governance approach for the co-creation of innovative solutions to urban challenges, such as climate change. However, urban lab scholarship has overlooked lab formation as a distinct process and is almost exclusively based on European cases. Therefore, little is known about the role of context conditions for lab formation in general and beyond Europe in particular. To address these gaps, this paper inductively analyses urban lab formation in five cities in Argentina, Brazil and Mexico, develops a framework for the comparative analysis of lab formation challenges, and asks: What do the challenges encountered and the solutions developed during lab formation in these cities tell us about the context dependence of the urban lab approach and what are the implications for its potential beyond Europe? Comparing insights from Europe to the findings from Latin America, the paper answers these questions and identifies future research questions.
Performative legitimation of waste-to-energy infrastructure: incineration politics in Guangzhou low-carbon transition
Authors: Yang Yimeng
Published: April 2024

Cities are emerging as the frontiers of low-carbon transition. The emergence of low-carbon cities in East Asian developmental states is often seen as serving nation-state-led transformative development and economic restructuring. But how are specific low-carbon infrastructures socially produced at the city level, especially in the context of social protests? What is the role of the local state? This paper addresses these questions through the case of Guangzhou’s waste-to-energy incineration, an infrastructure that was selected as a national low-carbon technology in China in 2014. The paper proposes a conceptual framework of “performative legitimation of infrastructure” and, drawing from the empirical work, identifies five performative governance tools – (re)conceptualization, reterritorialization, bureaucratization, culturalization and codification – which respond to evolving social demands, consolidate the legitimacy of incineration and regulate state–society relations in different contexts. The production of urban low-carbon infrastructure is presented as a material-discursive process that supports the legitimation of the local state.
Identification of Epstein-Barr virus after topical treatment for oral hairy leukoplakia: A preliminary study
Authors: Nobre Daniel Augusto Barnabé , Moura Mariela Dutra Gontijo , de Arruda José Alcides Almeida , Felix Fernanda Aragão , Diniz Priscilla Barbosa , Duarte Eliza Carla Barroso , Abreu Lucas Guimarães , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , Mesquita Ricardo Alves
Published: April 2024

Background

This study evaluated the presence of Epstein-Barr virus type 1 (EBV-1) DNA in patients living with HIV, before and after three different topical therapy protocols for oral hairy leukoplakia (OHL).

Methods

The sample consisted of five patients treated with topical solution of 25% podophyllin resin; six with 25% podophyllin resin plus 5% acyclovir cream; and four with 25% podophyllin resin plus 1% penciclovir cream. DNA was extracted from OHL scrapings and amplified by the PCR using specific primers for EBV-1 (EBNA-1).

Results

Clinical healing of OHL lesions was observed across all treatment groups over time. At baseline, EBNA-1 was detected in all OHL lesions. After treatment, OHL samples from three patients treated with 25% podophyllin resin plus 5% acyclovir cream and from one patient treated with 25% podophyllin resin plus 1% penciclovir cream exhibited negative EBNA-1 viral gene encoding. Despite the clinical resolution of OHL, 11 patients (73.3%) showed EBNA-1 positivity immediately after the lesion disappeared. Three patients (20%) treated with podophyllin resin displayed both EBNA-1 positivity and a recurrence of OHL, in contrast to no recurrence in the other two groups.

Conclusions

These findings suggest potential associations between treatment formulations, EBNA-1 persistence, and the recurrence of OHL lesions.
Oral streptococcal susceptibility to azithromycin may be associated with doxycycline use: A post-hoc analysis with implications for doxycycline post exposure prophylaxis
Authors: Vanbaelen Thibaut , De Baetselier Irith , Manoharan-Basil Sheeba Santhini , Kenyon Chris
Published: April 2024

Objective

Tetracycline and macrolide resistance are frequently linked in streptococci and other species. We aimed to assess the association between doxycycline use and azithromycin MICs in oral streptococci.

Methods

Linear regression was used to assess the association between doxycycline use in the prior year and the median MIC per participant of oral streptococcal colonies isolated at the baseline visit of the ResistAZM study. The analysis controlled for receipt of other antimicrobials as well as time since antimicrobial consumption.

Results

Fifty-six individual colonies confirmed to be streptococci were isolated from 19 individuals at baseline. The azithromycin MICs of these isolates varied considerably between 0.25 mg/L and >256 mg/L (median 28 mg/L; IQR 1-192 mg/L). The consumption of doxycycline in the preceding 12 months was positively associated with median streptococcal azithromycin MIC (coef. 151.6 [95% CI 10.6-292.7]; p = .037).

Conclusion

This post-hoc analysis found that doxycycline use was associated with streptococcal azithromycin susceptibility. Numerous limitations of the study design mean that this study is best considered hypothesis generating. Prospective studies are required to assess if the use of doxycycline could select for macrolide resistance in oral streptococci.
Micromechanical modeling and experimental characterization of thermoplastic cork filler composites
Authors: Benabdallah Faiza , Safra Imen , Ghachem Kaouther , Alwadai Norah , Kolsi Lioua
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on the experimental characterization and micromechanical modeling of thermoplastic cork filler composites. The research investigates the influence of granule size on the mechanical properties of composites made with a polypropylene matrix and cork granulates. Tensile, compressive, flexural, and Charpy impact tests are conducted according to ASTM standards to assess the mechanical behavior of the Cork/Polypropylene composites with different size of cork granulates (2 mm, 0.5 mm and 50 μm). Additionally, a micromechanical model is developed to provide numerical insights into the composite’s mechanical properties. Results indicate that the use of smaller cork granules (50 μm) significantly enhances tensile, compressive, and flexural properties, while maintaining Charpy impact resistance comparable to the matrix material. The Young’s Modulus exhibits an augmentation of approximately 28%, the flexural modulus demonstrates a 10% increase, and the compressive modulus manifests a notable rise of 47.7%. One-way ANOVA analysis is employed to establish the statistical significance of granule size on the modulus. Numerical simulations reveal that the spherical morphology of fillers induces isotropic characteristics in cork composite materials.
Sustainable Human Resource Management in the Hospital Sector: A Review of Literature
Authors: Kailay Manpreet , Paposa Kamalpreet Kaur
Published: April 2024

The field of personal management has undergone a significant change in the past decade. During the initial phases of sustainable practices—organisations seem to be responsible towards their society and environment along with a focus on financial profits. Building on sustainable management theory, ‘sustainable human resource management’ concept receives significant interest from management, academicians and scholars. Studies related to this area are limited and are still emerging in the developing country context. In this article, the literature review suggests that sustainability could be the driver of the hospital sector in the system. Sustainability in the hospital sector through sustainable human resource management practices is necessary to build and adapt a concrete sustainable practices structure. The various service sectors are focusing on embedding environmental sustainability and lesser focus has been given to the other three elements of sustainability that is the strategic, social and humanistic approach. The present article approaches headed for the full range implementation of sustainable human resource management practices in the hospital sector. In light of this, we proposed a model (SHRM—layout). We offer recommendations for the managing the hospital sector to implement these practices and influence others to maximise sustainable performance from the findings. The framework acts as a guide to organisations for incorporating sustainability practices in their management development plans.
Research Landscape of Sustainable Marketing: Thematic Analysis and Future Trends
Authors: Koul Surabhi , Kasar Aditya S.
Published: April 2024

Sustainability has been recognized as an integral business strategy leading to competitive advantage. The aim of the study is to generate a bibliometric blueprint for the sustainable marketing research domain and further identify emerging trends in this area. The data is collected from one of the most prominent bibliographic databases, Scopus. After narrowing our search keywords, a result of 4,889 articles is produced. Following the use of Boolean operators, 1,004 bibliographic resources were found, which were analysed in this study. The data is then visualized using a comparison visualization programme (VOSviewer) to demonstrate the possible outcomes graphically. The research findings are presented in the form of article categorizations into 11 thematic categories. The thematic categories outlined previous studies’ trends and contribution characteristics under the individual category, illustrating their implications. The article sums up the emerging and future themes in the area of sustainability. From the perspective of sustainability, the study demonstrates the importance of a sustainable business environment, green marketing, ecological marketing, sustainable tourism, and sustainability and development. The study brings out the role of multiple stakeholders to prevent the depletion of natural resources, secure waste management, prevent pollution, and cooperate with the nation’s compliance. This will promote economic development, which can be improved if we consider taking wiser steps to prevent the economy from degrading.
Book review: Noah L. Nathan, The Scarce State: Inequality and Political Power in the Hinterland
Authors: Arkorful Vincent Ekow
Published: April 2024

Noah L. Nathan, The Scarce State: Inequality and Political Power in the Hinterland Cambridge, UK: Cambridge University Press, 2023. 374 pp, $120, ISBN: 9781009261104 (Hardback).
Implications of India’s Act East Policy on the Food Systems and Cultural Heritage of the Konyak Nagas: A Case Study of Sustainable Subsistence and Capitalistic Rationalisation
Authors: Tiwari Sweta
Published: April 2024

This article examines the potential impact of India’s Act East Policy on the food systems of the Konyak Nagas, an indigenous community in Nagaland. The article studies how the traditional knowledge of the Konyak Nagas about the land, labour and ecology has influenced their food culture. The communal landholdings, shifting cultivation, natural preservation of food items, manual labour in agricultural lands and chemical-free fertilisation process have so far kept the Konyaks self-sufficient in terms of requirement of food, and kept the market forces at bay. Emphasising the significance of food security in the changing global scenario in the post-pandemic period and considering the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, the article explores how Act East Policy’s capitalistic rationalisation of resources may significantly affect their sustainable means of subsistence and appropriate their farms and platters, which are an integral element of the cultural fabric of the community.
Global Climate Change Politics: Critical Appraisal of India’s Changing Role
Authors: Gupta Alok Kumar , Parihar Kaushiki
Published: April 2024

Global warming and consequent climate change have emerged as serious issues and have started featuring on almost all multilateral forums with statements warning the global leadership to get increasingly proactive about addressing the issues. In world politics, countries are viewing climate change as an issue to gain influence in international politics. India is no exception to this rule and has been shaping its role as a rule-shaper and policy advocate and is an active participant in climate change negotiations. This article traces India’s role since the talks on climate change began as part of wider environmental concerns. It also enumerates the way global leadership viewed and addressed this pressing issue from time to time. The article provides a brief but critical account of India’s policy interventions at global and national levels to appraise India’s growing role and relevance.
The Predicament of Security: Tracing Two Years of Taliban Rule
Authors: Verma Mithila Bagai
Published: April 2024

The paper is an overall assessment of the security situation in Afghanistan that includes both traditional and non-traditional aspects. The paper highlights the deteriorating internal security that is bolstering Pashtunisation in Afghanistan and causing the forced displacement of non-Pashtuns. The implication of this grim development in India’s neighbourhood has severely impacted the peace and security of the Central Asian Region, Russia, China, Iran, India and Pakistan. The victory of the Taliban has resuscitated myriad terrorist groups who want to establish Islamic Caliphate in neighbouring countries, therefore leading to the gradual Talibanisation of the Asian region. The paper also delves into how the departure of foreign forces has created a power vacuum in Afghanistan that has led to the revival of a New Great Game with the addition of regional actors.
Seizure and Intracranial Hemorrhage: An Early Complication of Bee Sting – A Case Report
Authors: Kaur Amandeep , Gupta Monica , Ahuja Ishreen , Kak Kapil
Published: April 2024

Background:

Bee sting is a common entity during the summer season and is rarely associated with devastating complications such as myocardial infarction, pulmonary edema, bleeding, and rhabdomyolysis, neurological complications can occur after multiple stings. However, single bee venom infestation resulting in such complications is rare.

Patient’s Concern:

Here, we are describing a young male, who presented to us with a seizure episode, soon after bitten by a bee sting around his lips. The patient did not have hypertension, diabetes, other risk factors for seizure, or any history of trauma but the patient’s computed tomography head showed cerebral hematoma.

Intervention:

The patient was managed immediately with an injection of antiepileptics with intravenous (IV) fluids, antihistaminics, and IV steroids. The patient had gross improvement in the sensorium and was seizure free for 48 h under observation. The patient was discharged on the 4th day of admission with 100% recovery.

Conclusion:

This case report emphasizes the potential for severe neurological complications following bee stings in the form of cerebral hematoma which is clinically important to recognize early and further research is required to better understand the mechanism and management strategies.
Patient clinical and demographic factors associated with involuntary psychiatric admission in the northern territory top end
Authors: Lowes Jessica , Ferguson Nicholas , Bressington Daniel , Mitchell David
Published: April 2024

Objective

Australia has inadequate publicly available data regarding the use of involuntary psychiatric care. This study examined the association between patient clinical/demographic factors and involuntary psychiatric admission following initial psychiatric assessment in Royal Darwin Hospital.

Method

Retrospective review of 638 psychiatric assessments followed by covariate analysis of patient variables associated with involuntary psychiatric admission.

Results

Most of the 225 psychiatric admissions were involuntary (92%). Male patients and those with a preferred language other than English had the highest risk of being admitted involuntarily (RR 1.09, χ2 [1] = 3.9, p = .048, and RR 1.11, p = .036, respectively).

Conclusions

Further research regarding the influence of patient demographics and clinical factors on rates of involuntary admissions, particularly for Aboriginal patients, is recommended. The findings prompt discussion on strategies to improve monitoring of involuntary care and barriers to voluntary treatment.