bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract WP84: Drop It Like It’s Hot: Partnering with Teleneurology to Decrease Treatment Times
Authors: Nielsen Danielle
Published: January 2025

Purpose:
Decreasing door to needle and door to transfer times drives patient outcomes. When treating acute stroke patients, time is brain. The shorter the door to treatment time the faster patients can receive the thrombolytic therapy. The rapidly evolving use of telemedicine in acute stroke is state-of-the-art for identifying therapeutic indications such as IV thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy in patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) (Schröter et al., 2023).

Method:
Our facility is a Joint Commission certified Primary Stroke Center with two Acute Stroke Ready certified freestanding emergency departments (ED), caring for >67,000 patients a year with >700 being diagnosed with stroke. In 2023 our EDs transferred 35 patients with an LVO and 21 year to date in 2024.

A review of data illustrated an opportunity with our teleneurology program, staffed by an internal team of neurologists from our comprehensive stroke center. The development of the teleneurology program began at our health system in March 2021. ED providers had the ability to consult teleneurology, via telephone or video consult. When first launched, the new process was inconsistent.

Through ongoing chart audits, we identified ED providers were reliant on the recommendations from the teleneurologists. Upon review, a barrier to care was identified which caused delays in door to decision. In November 2023, we implemented a new stroke alert process, mandating that all stroke alert activations automatically received a teleneurology consult. By refining the process, we have demonstrated improvements in our door to needle and door to transfer times. Since the therapeutic success is strongly dependent on time, an early, accurate decision-making process is essential for timely transfer of the patient to a mechanical thrombectomy-competent center for appropriate stroke-oriented imaging and therapy (Schröter et al., 2023).

Results:
Post-implementation, our door in door out times decreased by 20% within eight months. Our median door in door out time decreased by 22.5 minutes. Of the LVO's we have transferred, five patients were transferred in <60 minutes and two patients in <70 minutes. Additionally, we have seen an overall reduction in our door to needle times.

Discussion:
Moving forward, we will continue to review and refine our workflows. There is consideration adding a nurse to the teleneurology team and a dedicated stroke response nurse to the team to provide additional support to our program.
Abstract WP89: Computed Tomography Perfusion Imaging Profiles Are Similar Before and After Transfer to a Comprehensive Stroke Center.
Authors: Oostema John , Wideman Brian , Abobaker Esam , Miller Malgorzata , Khan Nadeem , Khan Muhib , Reeves Mathew
Published: January 2025

Background:
CT perfusion (CTP) imaging is an important tool for identifying candidates for mechanical thrombectomy (MT). This modality is increasingly available in regional facilities, but whether pre-transfer perfusion imaging studies may be relied upon for treatment decisions is unclear. We analyzed a cohort of stroke transfers to quantify changes in CTP imaging profiles over time.

Methods:
A cohort of confirmed ischemic stroke patients who received CTP before and after transfer to a large mid-western comprehensive stroke center (CSC) were identified. We compared perfusion mismatch (MM), core infarct volume (CIV), and favorability of imaging for mechanical thrombectomy (MT) candidacy (defined as the presence of LVO and MM/CIV ratio of >1.8) between studies. Regression models were used to examine predictors of CIV growth including hypoperfusion intensity ratio (HIR) and time between studies.

Results:
Over a 24-month period, 61 patients met inclusion criteria. Median age was 71 (IQR 60-80), 52% were female, median NIHSS was 14 (IQR 4-19), and most patients had occlusion of the internal carotid and/or middle cerebral arteries (77%). The median time from last known well (LKW) to initial CT was 148 minutes (IQR 71-620) and median time between imaging studies was 149 minutes (IQR 126-194). Median CIV growth was 0 mL (IQR 0-6) and 8% (5/61) had growth ≥25 mL. In linear regression, higher HIR predicted CIV growth (β=24.3, p=0.04), but time from LKW to presentation and time between imaging studies did not. Imaging studies taken at the regional and CSC sites demonstrated excellent agreement in classifying patients as candidates for MT (kappa 0.778 [95% CI: 0.611-0.944]). A favorable regional CTP profile was 93% sensitive for MT delivery at the CSC with a positive predictive value of 63%.

Conclusion:
In our cohort, CIV growth between facilities was minimal despite relatively long interfacility transport times and was predicted by the regional HIR. A favorable regional imaging profile demonstrated high agreement with the imaging result at the CSC and was strongly associated with MT treatment.
The impact of teaching method and learning style on student engagement: a formative assessment of a primate education programme
Authors: Nekaris K.A.I. , Rickets H. , Campera M. , Bukit W.L. , Imron M. Ali
Published: January 2025

We explore the impact of teaching methods and learning styles on student engagement in a conservation education program focused on primate conservation in Indonesia. Engaging students is essential for fostering environmental literacy and encouraging pro-environmental behaviours. We assessed the effectiveness of active versus didactic teaching methods and visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic learning styles in enhancing engagement. Using a formative assessment approach, we observed student participation and attentiveness across 19 different activities in a Nature Club program. Our results indicated that active teaching methods significantly increased engagement, while auditory learning styles were associated with lower levels of engagement. The findings emphasise the importance of adopting active learning strategies and tailoring activities to accommodate diverse learning styles to maximise student involvement. This research contributes valuable insights into the design of conservation education programs that effectively promote long-term environmental stewardship among young learners. Furthermore, this method can easily be adapted to evaluate a range of different conservation education programmes
Rearing house crickets on substrates enriched by flaxseed and rapeseed oils: the more the better?
Authors: Kulma M. , Kurečka M. , Červek M. , Ota A. , Škvorová P. , Kotı́ková Z. , Michlová T. , Praus L. , Kouřimská L.
Published: January 2025

Diet is one of the most important factors influencing the chemical composition of edible insects. In this study, soybean meal and soybean oil were partially replaced with rapeseed pomace, rapeseed oil, or flaxseed oil in the insect diet. House crickets were provided with enriched diets for their whole life, ten, or five days before harvest to assess the effect of the supplement over time. The replacement of soybean oil with either rapeseed or a combination of rapeseed and flaxseed oils resulted in decreased levels of saturated fatty acids and increased levels of linolenic acid and mono unsaturated fatty acids. The longer the supplementation period, the higher the mono unsaturated fatty acids and the lower the saturated fatty acid levels. The dietary enrichment also led to increases in α- and γ-tocopherols. While short-term supplementation with cricket feed did not lead to significant changes in the mineral profile, whole-life provision of enriched feed led to decreased levels of Fe, Cu, and Zn and increased Mg in the crickets. Whole-life diet supplementation also resulted in higher harvest yields.
Comparison of DNA-based methods for the detection of meat feeding in Alphitobius diaperinus larvae
Authors: Asendorf T. , Wind C. , Rullmann A. , Vilcinskas A.
Published: January 2025

Insects are widely consumed as a source of protein, and several species of edible insects have been approved as novel foods for the European market in the last decade. The feeding of farmed animals, including edible insects, with products of animal origin is prohibited by the Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (TSE) Regulation (EU) 999/2001 and the EU Animal By-Products (ABP) Regulation (EC) 1069/2009. Accordingly, methods are needed to detect and exclude insects fed on animal-derived products. Multiple tests based on the detection of DNA have been developed, but their use for the characterisation of insect-derived foods has not been assessed rigorously. Here, we compared a range of DNA-based methods for the detection of vertebrate DNA residues in edible insects. We fed larvae of the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) on diets containing pork and chicken meat, and analysed samples by multiplex PCR with Sanger sequencing, real-time PCR, DNA biochips, and both short-read and long-read next-generation sequencing. We present a workflow for the efficient detection of meat and/or poultry feeding in edible insects. This workflow can be used in validated food surveillance measures to protect consumers from deception and to ensure compliance with current regulations covering the feeding of edible insects.
Molecular phylogeny and morphology reveal a new wood-inhabiting fungus, Hyphoderma cinereofuscum (Polyporales, Basidiomycota), from southwest China
Authors: LI WEN , WANG XIYAN , CHEN DAXIANG , ZHANG SICHENG , LI YUNCHAO , ZHAO CHANGLIN , ZHAN ZHONGYI
Published: January 2025

Hyphoderma is one of the important representative groups of wood-inhabiting fungi. These fungi secrete various enzymes capable of degrading cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin into simple inorganic substances. The taxa within the genus cause a white rot of wood, play a key role in the carbon cycle and are the most efficient wood decomposers in the forest ecosystem. This study proposes a new wood-inhabiting fungal taxon, Hyphoderma cinereofuscum, based on morphological features and molecular evidence. It is characterized by the white hymenial surface, a monomitic hyphal system, generative hyphae with simple-septa, colorless, thin-walled, the presence of the tubular and capitate cystidia, and cylindrical basidiospores 9–11.5 × 4.5–5 µm. The phylogenetic tree inferred from a combination of the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) and the large subunit nuclear ribosomal RNA gene (nLSU) revealed that Hyphoderma cinereofuscum nested in the Hyphoderma clade and is closely related to H. marginatum. A full description, illustrations and phylogenetic analysis results of the new species are provided.
The micro-geography of knowledge exchanges in Montreal: Questioning the importance of the neighbourhood scale in an age of virtual communications
Authors: Shearmur Richard , Doloreux David
Published: January 2025

Observation and theory confirm that economic activity can benefit from spatial agglomeration and clustering. Typically this has been analysed at the region or city scale, but recently micro-local and neighbourhood dynamics have drawn attention. Most studies first observe agglomeration, then infer or theorise processes that drive it; these inferred processes have become embedded in urban policy thinking. One such process is localised knowledge exchange, believed to be encouraged by spatial proximity and third spaces such as cafes and parks. In this study of Montreal firms, we directly explore the importance that firms attach to different scales and places at which knowledge exchange occurs. Overall, micro-local and local scales are considered less important than metropolitan and wider scales; third spaces are not considered important, except by marketing innovators; and there is no connection between innovation and the importance of local scale for knowledge acquisition. However, results are not homogeneous across urban context, economic sector or innovation profile: the association between micro-local knowledge exchange and geographical location is complex and cannot be generalised across neighbourhoods or firms.
The Association Between the Quality of Care Provided by Family Members and the Quality of Their Relationship With the Care Receiver in Dementia: A Mixed-methods Observational Study
Authors: Carparelli Chiara , Oyebode Jan R. , Riley Gerard A.
Published: January 2025

Research suggests that the quality of care provided by family members may be influenced by the quality of relationship they have with the person living with dementia. The study investigated this in the context of assisting with daily activities. The quality of the relationship was assessed using the conceptual framework of relationship continuity/discontinuity which focuses on whether the carer experiences their relationship as continuous or discontinuous with the pre-dementia relationship. Thirty spousal carers completed the Birmingham Relationship Continuity Measure. Participants were also interviewed about how they provide care for their partner’s daily activities. Passages consistent with a more person-centered approach were identified, and the total number of these in each transcript was used as the measure of care quality. There was a significant correlation between questionnaire scores and the number of person-centered passages: Those reporting greater continuity more frequently described using a person-centered approach. Findings were consistent with earlier research suggesting associations between the quality of the relationship and the quality of care. The concept of relationship continuity suggests ways in which relationship and care quality are connected, and these suggestions could be used to develop interventions to help family carers provide better care.
The efficiency of isocyanate coating on the basalt fibre surface for the mechanical performance of elastomeric polyurethane composites
Authors: Kök Metehan , Bulut Ahmet , Tayfun Ümit
Published: January 2025

The influence of the isocyanate layer on fibre surface to mechanical, thermo-mechanical, processing, and morphological properties of basalt fibre (BF) reinforced elastomeric polyurethane (EPU) composites was examined by utilizing tensile test data and Shore hardness measurements, dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), melt flow index (MFI) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. BF was modified with an isocyanate functional group containing silane modifier. Isocyanate moieties on BF surface were confirmed via functional group analysis by infrared spectroscopy. SEM/EDX analysis was also used to visualize the sized and desized BF surfaces. Composite samples were fabricated using conventional processing methods, including extrusion and injection molding. Silane covering involving isocyanate functional group on fibre positively affected the tensile strength and tensile modulus of composites. Percent elongation of EPU showed a reduction trend with the incorporation of both sized and desized BF. The shore hardness of EPU increased by BF inclusions. According to DMA results, higher storage modulus values were obtained for surface-modified BF-filled composites compared to desized BF ones. BF additions resulted in no remarkable change in the MFI parameter of EPU. SEM images represented visual evidence for enhancement in mechanical performance by investigating better adhesion of the isocyanate layer of BF to EPU matrix concerning desized BF. The importance of surface sizing on BF surface in the case of BF-reinforced EPU composite applications was evaluated based on the compatibility of composite phases.
Adaptive-constrained admittance control for physical human–robot interaction
Authors: Chen Juntong , Dong Zi-Yuan , Shi Shuanwu , Wei Yan , Yu Xinyi , Ou Linlin
Published: January 2025

In this paper, an adaptive constrained admittance control scheme is proposed, which can effectively solve physical human–robot interaction (pHRI) tasks with output constraints. To ensure the safety of robot behavior, the constraint controller is designed in the trajectory planning layer and the control layer. The asymmetric soft saturation function (ASSF) is designed to obtain variable compliant motion trajectories generated from the desired admittance model. In addition, the controller based on the asymmetric integral barrier Lyapunov function (AIBLF) is designed to deal directly with asymmetric Cartesian space constraints. Finally, radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is utilized to approximate the dynamics uncertainty of the robot manipulator and to improve the tracking accuracy. According to the Lyapunov stability principles, it can be proved that all states of the closed-loop system are semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded (SGUUB). Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is demonstrated by several simulations and experiments.
Different parental rearing behaviors and depressive symptoms of adolescents: Roles of psychological insecurity and core self-evaluations
Authors: Zeng Qing , Yang Zhiling , Xiao Tong , Luo Huijun , Chen Ping
Published: January 2025

Depression is the second most common mental disorder among adolescents worldwide. From the perspectives of emotional security theory and interpersonal acceptance–rejection theory, parental rearing behaviors impact adolescents’ depressive symptoms. The current study aims to uncover the underlying relationship mechanisms between different parental rearing behaviors and depressive symptoms. A sample of 372 junior high school students participated in this study. The results indicated that parental rejection and overprotection were associated with psychological insecurity and depressive symptoms, and parental emotional warmth was positively related to core self-evaluations. Paternal rejection had a more substantial impact on the lower distribution of depressive symptoms scores in the 25th percentile, while maternal rejection was significantly related to depressive symptoms in the 50th and 75th percentiles. Adolescents’ depressive symptoms were reduced when they had more paternal and maternal emotional warmth. Indirect effects of parenting behavior on depressive symptoms through core self-evaluations and psychological insecurity were found. Adolescents with higher levels of parental emotional warmth reported lower levels of psychological insecurity, which was related to higher levels of core self-evaluations; moreover, core self-evaluations were negatively related to depressive symptoms.
Efficient automated detection of power quality disturbances using nonsubsampled contourlet transform & PCA-SVM
Authors: Sinha Pampa , Paul Kaushik , Mohanty Asit , Elzein IM , Mishra Chandra Sekhar , Mahmoud Mohamed Metwally , Mbadjoun Wapet Daniel Eutyche , Al Ayidh Abdulrahman , Althobaiti Ahmed , Hussein Hany S , Alghamdi Thamer AH , Ewais Ahmed M
Published: January 2025

The increasing complexity of modern power systems, driven by smart grid technologies, dispersed generation, and renewable energy sources, has made power quality (PQ) evaluation more challenging. Overuse of sensors and large data volumes further complicate accurate PQ assessment. This paper proposes a flexible signal decomposition methodology using the nonsubsampled contourlet transform (NSCT) for accurate PQ event detection. The NSCT's multiscale, multidirectional, and shift-invariant properties enable the decomposition of signals into transient and oscillatory components. High-frequency NSCT subbands are fused to extract oscillatory portions, while low-frequency subbands are averaged to detect transients. Morphological component analysis (MCA) and the split-augmented Lagrangian shrinkage algorithm (SALSA) optimize this process. Principal component analysis (PCA) is applied to the extracted features to reduce dimensionality and improve feature separability. These optimized features are used for training a multi-class support vector machine, with its parameters further optimized for enhanced classification accuracy. The proposed approach demonstrates superior frequency selectivity, adaptability, and computational efficiency, making it suitable for robust PQ disturbance identification and a wide range of signal-processing tasks.
On the Link between Taxes and Incentives in the Choice of Business Form: The Case of Partnerships
Authors: HALPERIN ROBERT , MAINDIRATTA AJAY
Published: January 2025

This paper analytically explores the link between taxes and incentives in the choice of business form under the system of taxation found in the United States. Specifically, it analyzes when a group of investors, regardless of their own business form, will form a partnership with a manager, in which the manager is a general partner, instead of hiring him as an independent contractor.

Under conditions of certainty, or more generally in the absence of incentive considerations, the partnership and independent contractor forms are shown to be equivalent; there are no tax savings derived from making the manager a partner. When incentive considerations are present, the independent contractor form is shown to weakly dominate the partnership form as long as the terminal value of the venture is not incrementally informative about the manager’s actions. When this is not the case, the partnership form may dominate.
The Nature of Interest Swaps and the Pricing of Their Risks
Authors: Khoury Sarkis J.
Published: January 2025

This study defines interest swaps, shows how they work, explains the reasons for their explosive growth, looks at their limitations, and develops a model for pricing the market risk in a swap.

The study concludes with a summary of the major findings and contributions and with policy recommendations to bank management and bank regulators.
Inter-independence, dialogue, sustainability after globalization
Authors: Giaccardi Chiara
Published: January 2025

After almost a century of globalization, the trend now appears to be reversing, primarily due to global shocks since 2001. Using war as a legitimate means to reshape global sovereignty clearly signals the breakdown of the original globalization narrative. Societies are no longer fluid; they are increasingly solidifying into strongly opposing factions, particularly in Western nations. Within this framework, I propose an intervention divided into two parts. The first part, a pars destruens, interprets the roots of the contemporary episteme, characterized by dualisms, polarizations, and a belligerent (both metaphorically and literally) approach to questions of human coexistence. The second part, a pars construens, focuses on the paradoxical concept of ‘interindependence’ – the constitutive relationality of life, both biological and social, as the foundation for genuine sustainability. Finally, I will suggest how Christian thought, stripped of superstructures and ideological instrumentalizations, can contribute to an authentic ‘dialogic dialogue’ among diversities.
Subverting elections in Thailand: inclusion and independence in election commission design and practice
Authors: Alderman Petra
Published: January 2025

When do election commissions contribute to peace, and when do they subvert it? For years, civil society actors, policy experts and practitioners in electoral management and international electoral assistance have largely assumed that establishing ‘independent’ election commissions is key to fostering positive electoral outcomes, including peace. However, recent post-conflict research indicates that inclusion on independent commissions might be more strongly linked to reducing the risk of violence than independence alone. Building on this research, I propose a relational approach to studying election commissions by examining how inclusion and independence interact and how this nexus impacts peace. Using the example of the Election Commission of Thailand (ECT), I argue that the inclusion–independence election commissions nexus may not guarantee peace in all post-conflict and conflict-prone settings. Instead, it may create opportunities for power-hungry elites to weaponise these commissions against their opponents, ultimately subverting rather than fostering peace.
Turner Syndrome Women's Perceptions of Short Stature as a Cause of Social Exclusion: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis
Authors: Ciepiela Kamila
Published: January 2025

The primary manifestation of Turner syndrome (TS) is short stature. Girls with TS currently receive growth hormone therapy (GHT), but women who completed puberty before 2000 did not, as the Polish Ministry of Health began reimbursing GHT only in 2000, and it is ineffective postpuberty. Consequently, these women are approximately 20 cm shorter than the general population, not exceeding 140 cm. This study aimed to examine how women with TS perceive causes of social isolation in relation to their stature and body image. Nine Polish women with TS participated in semistructured interviews (five did not receive GHT). Interviews were quantitatively analyzed to identify main themes and then subjected to reflexive thematic analysis. Results, interpreted using Sen's (2000) theory of social exclusion, showed that both short stature and body image significantly impact relational capability failure in women with TS.
Neurodiversity: Increasing accessibility in community sentence treatment requirements
Authors: Morris Lucy , French Mignon , Pinder-Gott Lauren , Ahmed Shihab , Hook Somer , Swindell Madison , Tilley Charlotte
Published: January 2025

Recent government inspections have highlighted the importance of considering neurodiversity across the criminal justice system to ensure that neurodivergent individuals are not at a disadvantage. Community sentence treatment requirements (CSTRs) are treatment options available to sentencers as part of a community or suspended sentence. These aim to address underlying concerns that may contribute to offending behaviour. Recent work has looked how to increase accessibility of CSTRs to neurodivergent individuals. The recommendations stemming from this work are described.
The 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK-9) has adequate measurement properties in patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Morais Daniel Nunes , Pontes-Silva André , Barreto Felipe Souza , Pinheiro Jocassia Silva , Oliveira Leonardo Antônio Santos de , Bassi-Dibai Daniela , Fidelis-de-Paula-Gomes Cid André , Avila Mariana Arias , Dibai-Filho Almir Vieira
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess the test–retest reliability, internal consistency, and construct validity of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia in patients with chronic low back pain.

Design

Questionnaire validation study.

Setting

Study was conducted in an online environment.

Participants

We included people aged 18 to 50 years with self-reported low back pain lasting > three months and assessed the Pain-Related Catastrophizing Thoughts Scale and the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia.

Main measures

We used intraclass correlation coefficient, standard error of measurement, minimum detectable change, and Cronbach's alpha to assess the reliability and internal consistency of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia. We tested correlations between the domains of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and the other variables to assess construct validity.

Results

A total of 174 participants with chronic low back pain were included in the analysis. No ceiling or floor effect was found. In terms of construct validity, there was a positive correlation between the domains of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia and the other variables. In the reliability analysis, there was adequate test–retest reliability of the two domains of the 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia: intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.99, standard error of measurement = 3.4%, and minimum detectable change = 9.6% for the activity avoidance domain; and intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.99, standard error of measurement = 3.5%, and minimum detectable change = 9.9% for the somatic focus domain. There was acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥ 0.68) for both domains.

Conclusion

The 9-item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia has adequate measurement properties in patients with chronic low back pain.
A Room a Day Keeps the Doctor Away
Authors: Fairweather Virginia
Published: January 2025

SAINT BARNABAS ‘HOSPITAL IN NEW JERSEY HAS UPGRADED LIGHTING ONE PATIENT ROOM AT A TIME, THE FIRST STEP IN A SWEEPING, SYSTEM-WIDE RETROFIT PROGRAM
A New Day for Old Main
Authors: Kobes John-Michael
Published: January 2025

The interior facelift of Carroll College's main hall Revealed Architectural Elements That Haven't See the Light of Day for Over A Century
The Valley's Newest Hot Spot
Authors: Kobes John-Michael
Published: January 2025

ARIZONA IS FAMOUS FOR ITS HOT DAYS, BUT THIS SIZZLING SOUTHWEST SANCTUARY HAS A COOL NEW HANGOUT– The Glendale Arena
The Century Series: A Long and Winding Road
Authors: Lewin Ian
Published: January 2025

From gas lights through Cobra-heads and LEDs: A look back and at what's around the bend in roadway lighting
The Role of Theory in Lighting Research and Design
Authors: Worthey James A.
Published: January 2025

First in a series on a more analytical approach
Visual Simulation
Authors: Orfield Steven J.
Published: January 2025

Prototyping visual performance vs lighting products
Temporal Stability of Factors Affecting Residents’ Non-Commuting Travel Behavior across Different Stages of a Sudden and Localized Outbreak of COVID-19
Authors: Ma Xinwei , Shen Ying , Liu Zhenyu , Wang Jianbiao , Li Xia
Published: January 2025

People’s attitudinal shifts toward an epidemic at different stages of the epidemic affect their travel behavior. Non-commuting travel behavior is more variable than commuting, as non-commuters have more travel options. However, few studies explored the changes in non-commuting travel and its influencing factors across different stages of sudden and localized COVID-19 outbreaks. Using survey data collected in Nanjing, China, where there was a sudden and localized outbreak of COVID-19, this research adopted the random parameter ordered logit model with heterogeneity in means and variances (HMV) to explore the factors influencing non-commuting travel in the early, middle, and late epidemic stages. The model results revealed that considering the HMV would improve the model fitness. In addition, the temporal stability of factors was investigated via a likelihood ratio test, which confirms traveler behavioral differences across different stages. The results showed that “e-bike ownership” and “the number of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests” is positively correlated with the number of non-commuting trips over three epidemic stages. The variables “people who live together have a red health code,”“mask replacement frequency,” and “risk-free areas” are significant in the early-stage and middle-stage models. The variables “people who live together have a green health code all the time” only become significant in the late-stage model. Research findings contribute to the understanding of non-commuting behaviors and targeted management needs during local outbreaks, and can help the government address travel issues under future major health events.
An Inclusive Public Transport System for Riders Wearing Religious Attire
Authors: Chowdhury Subeh , Sil Ankita , Tilleman Kirsten J. , Hossain Md Shahadat
Published: January 2025

Ensuring an inclusive and equitable public transport system remains a major challenge for many cities. Spaces in crowded terminals and vehicles can compel riders to interact close to each other. Some evidence shows that public transport users from racial- or ethnic-minority groups, especially individuals who wear religious attire, often encounter higher rates of discrimination and harassment. The present study contributes to the limited knowledge on their travel experiences by providing insights into perceived personal security and ridership frequency, specifically focusing on riders who wear religious attire. This study uses data involving 524 participants from an online survey administered in Auckland, New Zealand. Results showed that racial and ethnic groups are dependent on public transport in their daily lives, and those who wear religious attire are often frequent riders. Findings show statistically significant differences in perceived personal security between those who wear religious attire and others. Individuals with a religious appearance express greater concern about their personal security while riding public transport and are found to avoid using it during off-peak hours. These findings provide evidence that such groups are marginalized because of their appearance. Othering behaviors do not go unnoticed and can create a hostile environment for public transport users who wear religious attire. Findings from this study add to the growing evidence that an inclusive environment is necessary for all riders to feel safe, particularly those who are dependent on public transport. Service providers have an ethical responsibility to ensure a no-tolerance culture for discrimination toward riders that explicitly protects those of marginalized identities, including those who wear religious attire.
Comparison of Interportal and Periportal Capsulotomies and Axial Distraction Resistance During Hip Arthroscopy: An In Vivo Propensity-Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Featherall Joseph , Metz Allan K. , Rosenthal Reece M. , Khalil Ameen Z. , Johnson Benjamin T. , Froerer Devin L. , Mortensen Alexander J. , Aoki Stephen K.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Intraoperative hip capsule management is increasingly recognized as an important component of hip arthroscopy for the prevention of capsular-related instability. The periportal capsulotomy, relative to the interportal capsulotomy, has been proposed as a minimally invasive technique for decreasing postarthroscopy hip instability; however, the biomechanical effects of this technique are not well established.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This study aimed to provide a biomechanical characterization of interportal and periportal capsulotomies, helping inform surgeon choice of capsulotomy type and repair, potentially guiding clinical practice in hip arthroscopy. The authors hypothesized that the periportal capsulotomy would demonstrate greater resistance to axial distraction in all capsular states.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients undergoing primary hip arthroscopy by a single surgeon underwent intraoperative axial distraction testing at 25-, 50-, 75-, and 100-pound force intervals, with each axial distraction distance measured by standardized fluoroscopic evaluation. Propensity matching was conducted between the periportal group and the interportal group using native state distraction, lateral center-edge angle, and sex as covariates to achieve balance between groups. Between-group comparisons of distraction distances were then conducted using the Student t test and Fisher exact test.

Results:

In total, 74 interportal capsulotomies and 124 periportal capsulotomies were identified. Propensity matching yielded 74 hips in each group. Demographic and radiographic characteristics were similar between matched cohorts ( P > .05). An unrepaired interportal capsulotomy led to an increase in hip distraction of 2.74 mm at 100 lbf ( P < .001) compared with the native state, whereas unrepaired periportal capsulotomy led to an increase of 2.43 mm at 100 lbf ( P < .001). Distraction distances were similar between the interportal and periportal groups in both the capsulotomy and repair states ( P > .05), while the periportal capsulotomy repair demonstrated decreased hip distraction distance when compared with the native state by 1.37 mm at 75 lbf and 1.45 mm at 100 lbf ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

In a propensity-matched cohort analysis, an unrepaired periportal capsulotomy and interportal capsulotomy have similar effects on increasing hip axial distraction distance intraoperatively. Performing a capsular repair restores intraoperative resistance to axial distraction in both procedures. Despite the minimal disruption of the capsule with periportal techniques, repair is required for restoration of native biomechanics.
Psychometric Properties of Chinese Version of the Multiple Intelligence Scale (MIS) Among Older Adults: Rasch Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Lin Tzu-Yu , Hu Fang-Wen , Li Hao-Ming , Griffiths Mark D. , Papour Amir H. , Chen I-Hua , Lin Chung-Ying
Published: January 2025

The present study utilized advanced psychometric methods (i.e., Rasch analysis and confirmatory factor analysis [CFA]) to evaluate the factor structure of the Multiple Intelligence Scale (MIS) and its validity among Taiwanese older adults. Methods: A cross-sectional study design using convenience sampling was conducted among 200 community-dwelling participants aged 65 years or older. Results: The Rasch analyses showed that the MIS had good structure validity and unidimensionality. Among various CFA models testing the MIS factor structure, exploratory structural equation modelling performed the best given its parsimonious and excellent fit indices. Conclusions: The MIS can be used among older adults in a culturally-fair way for understanding their multiple intelligences. Using the MIS, healthcare providers could encourage older people to assess their own strengths and weaknesses of intelligence. The results suggest that more research on older adults’ MI is needed to tailor bespoke therapeutic programs to individual needs in community settings.
Advanced parametric optimization of a nanofluid augmented PCM-based latent heat thermal energy storage system
Authors: Bhat Gowhar Shafi , Shafi Iqra , Ahmad Mukhtar , Qayoum Adnan , Saleem Sheikh Shahid
Published: January 2025

With the increase in energy crises and consequently the rapid depletion of fossil fuels, harnessing solar energy is imperative and on the rise. However, the storage of solar energy for retention and later use demands the need for optimized and efficient storage systems. This study is concerned with the evaluation of various parameters affecting the performance of a packed bed latent heat storage system. Additionally, this work proposes utilizing four different types of paraffin PCMs as encapsulation fillings and five different types of novel heat transfer fluids (HTFs). Furthermore, an improved optimization was carried out to arrive at the best charging time. This analysis was carried out by discretizing the governing equations using a finite element scheme under suitable boundary conditions.The results suggest that the charging time depicts a distinct U-shaped curve between the considered porosity values of 0.15 and 0.7. The results show a maximum reduction of 9.37% in charging time when the bed porosity is 0.35. Additionally, increasing the water flow rate to 25 l/min causes the charging to complete in 10.125 h. Similarly, the reduction in encapsulation size shows maximum decrease at both 15 and 20 mm to be 6.10%. Cumulatively, at the optimized individual parameters, the charging time drops to just 9.25 h, thus showing the maximum decrement in charging time of 14.54% for the PCM storage medium RT56-58 in conjunction with the nanofluid designated as slurry(S).
Effect of silver nanopowder addition on mechanical properties of silver-copper alloy used in the jewellery industry
Authors: Adin Hamit , Akgül Sabahattin , Adin Mehmet Şükrü
Published: January 2025

In this research, silver nanopowder (at rates of 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2%) was added to 925-carat silver-copper alloy used in manufacturing silver jewellery to increase its durability and to observe its mechanical properties occurred. In this context, different mechanical tests (tensile, bending and hardness) were performed on exclusively produced silver-copper alloys. Moreover, mechanical simulation tests were conducted via ANSYS software using the data obtained from the experimental results. In the tensile tests, it was observed that the use of nanopowder at the rates of 0.5% and 1% positively affected the tensile strength and strain values, while when the nanopowder rate exceeded 1%, both parameters were negatively affected. According to tensile test results, the ductility of the alloy material decreases as the rates of nanopowder addition rise. In the bending tests, it was observed that the addition of 1% nanopowder increased the bending strength significantly; however, other addition rates had a negative effect. Hardness measurements showed that the 1% nanopowder ratio had a much higher effect (in terms of increasing the hardness value) on the hardness value than 0.5%, 1.5% and 2% nanopowder ratios. In order to verify the numerical analysis model, the results of both experimental and numerical analyses were compared. The success of numerical modelling was found to be ∼96% in terms of both tensile strength and displacement. Many methods are used in the jewellery industry, especially in silver jewellery. To easily shape the material to be used in filigree, repousse, and tattoo techniques, the material must be somewhat soft and pliable. Therefore, if production is carried out using these techniques, it is not advisable to add large amounts of nanopowder to the alloy. Furthermore, adding quite low amounts (0.1%, 0.5% etc.) of nanopowder to the silver-copper alloy will provide efficient results in shaping-based production techniques.
Feedback linearization-based model reference adaptive control for multirotor UAVs under uncertainties from fuel and payload
Authors: Lee Jayden Dongwoo , Kim Lamsu , Jang Kwangwoo , Lee Seongheon , Bang Hyochoong
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes a feedback linearization-based model reference adaptive control (FL-MRAC) scheme to handle a multirotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) equipped with a gasoline-battery-type hybrid system under uncertainties. The gasoline-battery-type hybrid propulsion systems are increasingly used to increase operational time. This multirotor system suffers from uncertainties that may originate from offcentered payloads, or fuel consumption during flight. These uncertainties can change model parameters such as mass, moment of inertia, and center of gravity. Therefore, a new control strategy is applied using feedback linearization as a baseline design augmented with a model reference adaptive control strategy on a multirotor UAV. To formulate the structure of uncertainties, the mathematical model of the multirotor UAV with fuel and payload is constructed considering the effect of the mass change rate and the off-diagonal inertia tensor. FL-MRAC improves the performance of attitude and altitude tracking using the closed-loop reference model under model parameter uncertainties and time-varying nature. To guarantee stability, the uniform ultimate boundedness of the closed-loop system is proved considering the time-varying parameters. Numerical simulations are performed using the root-mean-square error and the fast Fourier transform. In Case 1, FL-MRAC with a closed reference model exhibits a more accurate tracking performance and transient response than FL-MRAC with an open reference model under the uncertainties of time-varying parameter uncertainties. In Case 2, the proposed method of tracking performance demonstrates an improved attitude and altitude tracking performance compared to sliding mode control and nonlinear disturbance observer under time-varying parameter uncertainties and external disturbances due to fuel sloshing effect.
Moral expression of “experts” and public engagement: Communicating COVID-19 vaccines on Facebook public pages in Chinese
Authors: Xi Yipeng , Zhang Weiyu
Published: January 2025

This research investigates the moral frames employed by diverse Chinese-speaking “experts” on their Facebook public pages in relation to COVID-19 vaccines, leveraging Moral Foundations Theory for analysis. The analysis highlights that experts predominantly employ moral frames emphasizing care and authority in communicating COVID-19 vaccines. However, the moral frames of care, loyalty, and fairness are more effective in garnering public support. The research thus identifies a disparity between the moral rhetoric commonly espoused by different expert groups and the rhetoric that substantively influences public engagement. The implications of diverse experts’ moral framing in public health crises are also discussed.
Role of Leucine-Rich Repeat–Containing G-Protein-Coupled Receptors 4–6 (LGR4–6) in the Ovary and Other Female Reproductive Organs: A Literature Review
Authors: Chang Yu-Hsun , Wu Kun-Chi , Wang Kai-Hung , Ding Dah-Ching
Published: January 2025

Leucine-rich repeat–containing G-protein-coupled receptors regulate stem cell activity and tissue homeostasis within female reproductive organs, primarily through their interaction with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. LGR4–6 are increasingly recognized for their roles in organ development, regeneration, and cancer. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the roles of LGR4–6 in female reproductive organs, highlighting their significance in normal physiology and disease states, specifically in the context of ovarian cancer. LGR4 is essential for the proper development of the female reproductive system; its deficiency leads to significant reproductive abnormalities, including delayed menarche and follicle development issues. LGR5 is a well-established marker of stem cells in the ovary and fallopian tubes. It has been implicated in the pathogenesis of high-grade serous ovarian cancer. LGR6, while less studied, shares functional similarities with LGR5 and can maintain stemness. It contributes to chemoresistance in ovarian cancer. LGR6 is a marker for fallopian tube stem cells and is involved in stem cell maintenance and differentiation. LGR4–6 regulate the pathophysiology of female reproductive tissues. LGR4–6 are promising therapeutic targets for treating reproductive cancers and other related disorders. Molecular mechanisms underlying the functions of LGR4–6 should be studied.
Understanding Undergraduate Students’ Perceptions About the Energy–Water–Food Nexus in Education for Sustainability: A Brazilian Perspective
Authors: Vieira Letícia Beatriz Camargo , Delamaro Maurício César , Campos Arminda Eugenia Marques , Horton John , Balestieri José Antonio Perrella , Soares Paulo Valladares , Kraftl Peter , Leal Rachel Nunes , Dias Rubens Alves , Hadfield-Hill Sophie
Published: January 2025

The water–energy–food nexus approach to the sustainable management of resources emphasizes chains of interdependence and contingencies of their elements. As these concepts are increasingly relevant for research and policy, educational institutions seek to add materials about them into curricula. This article aimed to identify issues and relevant points for education for sustainability in undergraduate higher education, based on a combined analysis of research results regarding the perceptions, experiences and participation of undergraduates in the water–energy–food nexus in São Paulo, Brazil. The analyses enabled an exploration of the contexts in which education for sustainability is set at higher education institutions by taking into account the perceptions of students. It was observed that university students perceive that their knowledge of issues and topics related to the nexus elements is either limited or sufficient, without remarkable distinctions between responses for public and private institutions, although public ones are viewed as superior in educational level terms.