bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Government Accessory Dwelling Unit Policies After State Preemption in California
Authors: Wielga Christopher
Published: January 2025

While local governments retain dominant control over land use in the United States, state governments are increasingly preempting them in this area. This article focuses on how local governments in California responded to preemption on the maximum unit size of accessory dwelling units. Using a survey of local governments from the Tener Center, and reviewing their ordinances, I compare local accessory dwelling unit policies before and after the preemption. I find that local governments responded to state preemptions that created a lower bound of the maximum unit size. Those below this minimum standard largely moved up to comply with it, but those above the standard also moved their policies to be lower than they were prior to the preemption. Local governments also responded to changes in preemptions that precluded minimum lot sizes, suggesting that the governments who brought their maximum size down were indeed responding to the preemption.
Giving back to the future: Generativity, future time perspective, and purpose
Authors: Hill Kyrsten C. , Lewis Nathan A. , Dewitte Laura , Allemand Mathias , Hill Patrick L.
Published: January 2025

Research suggests that generativity may serve as a path to the experience of purpose in life. However, little is known about how this relationship is influenced by age and future time perspective (FTP). The present study aimed to investigate age and FTP as moderators of the association between generativity and sense of purpose. A total of 787 participants ranging in age from 19 to 94 years ( M = 50.23; SD = 16.47) completed self-report measures of generativity, FTP, and sense of purpose as part of a broader study. Correlational analyses revealed that generativity, age, and FTP were positively associated with a sense of purpose. Moderation analyses found that FTP, but not age, significantly moderated the relationship between generativity and sense of purpose. Specifically, individuals with a more limited FTP exhibited a stronger association between generativity and purpose. Findings lend support for a robust association between generativity and sense of purpose ( r = .54), and they suggest that generativity may be particularly important for sense of purpose when time is perceived as limited. This study paves the way for future research examining the role of FTP on the development of generativity across the lifespan.
The outcome of late open conversion after endovascular abdominal aortic repair
Authors: Nishiori Hironobu , Inui Tomohiko , Watanabe Michiko , Kohno Hiroki , Matsuura Kaoru , Ikeuchi Hiroki , Kanda Tomoyoshi , Ito Chihiro , Yamamoto Hiroaki , Shibata Yusuke , Yamamoto Takashi , Nagahama Maiko , Matsumiya Goro
Published: January 2025

Background

Endovascular abdominal aneurysm repair (EVAR) offers a less invasive approach to treating abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) compared to open repair. However, EVAR is associated with higher rates of reintervention. This study investigates the early and mid-term outcomes of patients who underwent late open conversion including aneurysmorrhaphy after EVAR at our institution.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 29 patients who underwent late open conversion for AAA dilatation after EVAR between April 2015 and March 2022 at Chiba University Hospital. Surgical strategies included an artificial graft replacement for Type Ia endoleak (EL), Type III EL from stent graft main body, ruptured cases, and aneurysmorrhaphy with branch ligation for Type II EL.

Results

The average time from EVAR to open conversion was 4.1 ± 2.3 years. There have been no reported cases of in-hospital mortality to date. Aneurysmorrhaphy demonstrated shorter operative times (239 ± 65 min) and lower red blood cell transfusion volumes (2.7 ± 4.2 units) compared to graft replacement. Postoperative complications included spinal cord ischemia in one patient and three patients requiring reintervention due to persistent or new ELs, who underwent angiography. The seven-year all-cause mortality rate was 78.5%. Among cases that underwent aneurysmorrhaphy, postoperative computed tomography scans showed a reduction in the maximum aortic diameter from 65 ± 6 mm preoperatively to 42 ± 10 mm postoperatively and 36 ± 11 mm at follow-up.

Conclusions

Late open conversion including aneurysmorrhaphy after EVAR appears to be safe and effective, with no in-hospital mortality and low complication rates. Careful preoperative planning and appropriate surgical techniques are essential for optimizing outcomes.
Enhance the corrosion resistance of cast iron surfaces by pre-vacuum nitriding
Authors: Shi Lei , Jiang Ailong , Ji Lulu , Han Yahui , Wu Qihua , Wang Xinyi
Published: January 2025

To enhance the corrosion resistance of the cast iron surface, its application in extreme conditions has been expanded. The study investigates the microstructure evolution and corrosion behavior of the nitriding layer created through pre-vacuum nitriding. X-ray diffractometer (XRD) analysis reveals the presence of Fe3N and Fe4N in the nitriding layer. The compound layer has a thickness of approximately 10 μm. The hardness of the nitriding layer is more than twice that of the substrate, measuring at 560.2 HV1. In comparision to the substrate's corrosion current density of 5.45 × 10−6 A/cm2, corrosion potential of −0.697 V and corrosion rate of 63.4 μm/year, the nitrided layer shows significant improvements: the corrosion current density is reduced by 68%, the corrosion potential shifts to a positive 0.104 V, and the corrosion rate decreases by 65.9%. Additionally, nitrided layers exhibit outstanding friction-reducing properties, with the friction coefficient reduced by 13% compared to the substrate.
Enhancing safety monitoring in post-stroke rehabilitation through wearable technologies
Authors: Rech Kátia , da Cunha Maira Jaqueline , Salazar Ana Paula , Almeida Rosicler da Rosa , Pedrini Schuch Clarissa , Balbinot Gustavo
Published: January 2025

Objective

Current clinical practice guidelines support structured, progressive protocols for improving walking after stroke. Technology enables monitoring of exercise and therapy intensity, but safety concerns could also be addressed. This study explores functional mobility in post-stroke individuals using wearable technology to quantify movement smoothness—an indicator of safe mobility.

Design

Observational cohort study.

Setting

A movement analysis and rehabilitation laboratory.

Participants

A total of 56 chronic post-stroke individuals and 51 healthy controls.

Intervention

Participants performed the mobility test while wearing an inertial measurement unit attached to their waist. Thirty-two healthy participants also engaged in a steady-state walking task.

Main measures

Functional mobility smoothness by examining angular velocities in the yaw, pitch, and roll axes, employing the spectral arc length metrics.

Results

Our findings reveal that post-stroke individuals extend the duration of the timed-up-and-go test (≈9 s and 23 s longer compared to the controls) to ensure safe mobility—greater mobility smoothness ( p < 0.001). Notably, for mild and severe impairments, post-stroke mobility demonstrated ≈8% and ≈11% greater smoothness in pitch movements, respectively ( p = 0.025 and p = 0.002). In the roll direction, mobility was ≈12% smoother in cases of severe strokes ( p = 0.006).

Conclusion

This study addresses a crucial gap in the understanding of mobility smoothness in chronic stroke survivors using wearable technology. Our study suggests the potential utility of spectral arc length to predict challenging mobility situations in real-world situations. We highlight the potential for automated monitoring of safety offering promising avenues for real-time, real-life monitoring.
Cerebral perfusion alterations in healthy young adults due to two genetic risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease: APOE and MAPT
Authors: Bennett Samuel K , Zeng Jianmin , Dounavi Maria-Eleni , Majid Arshad , Baig Sheharyar S , De Marco Matteo , Ritchie Craig , O’Brien John T , Su Li
Published: January 2025

Functional brain changes such as altered cerebral blood flow occur long before the onset of clinical symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative disorders. While cerebral hypoperfusion occurs in established AD, middle-aged carriers of genetic risk factors for AD, including APOE ε4, display regional hyperperfusion due to hypothesised pleiotropic or compensatory effects, representing a possible early biomarker of AD and facilitating earlier AD diagnosis. However, it is not clear whether hyperperfusion already exists even earlier in life. Here, 160 young and cognitively healthy participants from the Chinese PREVENT cohort underwent 3 T arterial spin labelling and T1 MRI and genetic testing for APOE and MAPT rs242557 status. Using FSL, we performed a whole brain voxel-wise analysis and a global mean grey matter analysis comparing for the effects of both risk genes on cerebral perfusion. No significant alterations were seen for APOE genotype, but in MAPT rs242557 A carriers, we observed a significantly hyperperfusion in the left anterior cingulate cortex and left insular cortex. There were no effects of APOE or MAPT status on the global perfusion. These results are novel and may suggest that MAPT genotypes demonstrated a distinct hemodynamic profile in a very young age.
Unlocking the potential of photobiomodulation therapy for brain neurovascular coupling: The biological effects and medical applications
Authors: Yan Bingzi , Zhou Jie , Yan Fengshuo , Gao Mingyang , Tang Jiaji , Huang Lin , Luo Yan
Published: January 2025

Photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy stands as an innovative neurostimulation modality that has demonstrated both efficacy and safety in improving brain function. This therapy exerts multifaceted influences on neurons, blood vessels, and their intricate interplay known as neurovascular coupling (NVC). Growing evidence indicates that NVC may present a promising target for PBM intervention. However, the detailed mechanisms underlying its therapeutic benefits remain to be fully understood. This review aims to elucidate the potential metabolic pathways and signaling cascades involved in the modulatory effects of PBM, while also exploring the extensive repertoire of PBM applications in neurologic and psychiatric conditions. The prospects of PBM within the realm of NVC investigation are intensively considered, providing deeper insights into the powerful capabilities of PBM therapy and its potential to revolutionize neurostimulation treatments.
Isoform-selective and non-selective rho-kinase inhibitors do not affect collagenase-induced intracerebral hemorrhage outcomes in mice: Influence of sex and circadian cycle
Authors: Imai Takahiko , Morais Andreia , Qin Tao , Sasaki Yuichi , Erdogan Taylan , McKerracher Lisa , Ayata Cenk
Published: January 2025

Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) inhibitors are therapeutic candidates in ischemic stroke and subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, their efficacy in intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is unknown. Here, we tested the efficacy of fasudil (10 mg/kg), an isoform-nonselective ROCK inhibitor, and NRL-1049 (10 mg/kg), a novel inhibitor with 43-fold higher selectivity for ROCK2 isoform compared with ROCK1, in a collagenase-induced ICH model in mice. Both short (1–3 days) and prolonged (14 days) therapeutic paradigms were tested using robust sample sizes in both males and females and in active and inactive circadian stages. Outcome readouts included weight loss, mortality, hematoma volume, hemispheric swelling, brain water content, BBB permeability to large molecules, and sensorimotor and cognitive function. We found the treatments safe but not efficacious in improving the hematoma volume, BBB disruption, or neurological deficits in this collagenase-induced ICH model. Intriguingly, however, induction of ICH during the active circadian stage was associated with worse tissue and behavioral outcomes compared with the inactive stage.
Carburisation of hydrogen-reduced iron ore pellets by CH4–H2 gas mixtures for sustainable steelmaking
Authors: Kar Manish Kumar , Safarian Jafar
Published: January 2025

Decarbonisation is critical for transitioning the steel industry toward sustainable, low-carbon production. As a major greenhouse gas emitter, the industry is exploring greener alternatives, such as producing Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) using hydrogen as a reductant to replace carbon. However, retaining a specific carbon content in DRI is essential for efficient steelmaking. This study investigates the carburisation of DRI pellets that were obtained by hydrogen reduction through using hydrogen-methane gas mixtures with varying CH4 concentrations (10%–50%). Weight changes during reduction and carburisation steps were monitored using thermogravimetric analysis. The mineralogy, microstructure and chemical properties of the oxide reduced and carburised pellets were analysed using XRD, SEM, XRF and optical microscopy. Thermodynamic calculations with HSC Chemistry 9 were performed to evaluate experimental results. The findings show a complete reduction of iron oxide to metallic iron during the reduction step by hydrogen. During carburisation, increasing CH4 concentration enhanced cementite formation, with a notable transition occurring above 20 vol% CH4. Initially, cementite is formed via a direct reaction of methane with metallic iron, and at higher CH4 levels, methane cracking precedes the cementite formation. This study identifies optimal carburising gas compositions for carburising DRI and elucidates mechanisms involved in CH4–H2 carburisation.
A conceptual and statistical framework for delineating the timing of a stratigraphic transition: Holocene-Anthropocene boundary as a case study
Authors: Ön Zeki Bora , Ateş Mustafa Efe , Kaiser Jérôme
Published: January 2025

The AWG (Anthropocene Working Group) proposed 1952 CE as the onset of the Anthropocene, marked by the detonation of the first hydrogen bomb, and designates Crawford Lake’s sediments in Canada as the potential stratotype. While the proposal for the Anthropocene as an epoch has been rejected by the SQS (Subcommision on Quaternary Stratigraphy), ongoing discussions regarding this debate remain unresolved. Here, we explore the possible biases and pitfalls of selecting the onset date from a singular site as the GSSP (Global boundary Stratotype Section and Point) for a chronostratigraphic boundary, using the potential Holocene-Anthropocene boundary as an example. We address the challenges of identifying changes in anthropogenic markers, along with the inherent measurement and age uncertainties, by employing a multilevel Bayesian change point analysis integrated with an errors-in-variables approach applied to proxy data. Our analysis utilizes plutonium isotopes ((239+240)Pu), SCPs (spheroidal carbonaceous fly-ash particles), and radiocarbon (F14C) records from multiple locations established to evidence global anthropogenic imprints. Key findings include the identification of a population-level change point for (239+240)Pu at 1953 CE (1951.5–1954.5). While the standard practice for defining the onset date of a stratigraphic boundary typically involves selecting the date from the stratotype, our results suggest that 1953 CE should be the preferred date to define the onset of a potential Anthropocene Epoch. However, 1952 CE, which coincides with the first H-bomb test, cannot be statistically rejected as an alternative. Geographical clustering of SCPs data highlights regional variations in proxy signatures, while F14C results emphasize a lag of 5.5–9 years corresponding to carbon residence time. Our research contributes to discussions surrounding the delineation of a potential boundary between the Holocene and Anthropocene Epochs. Additionally, it provides methodological insights into identifying change points in multiple datasets and temporal lags in the environmental impacts of human activities.
Uncovering the State of Current Data on Quadriceps Tendon Autograft Use Versus Bone–Patellar Tendon–Bone and Hamstring Tendon Autografts in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction at ≥5 Years After Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Kurkowski Sarah C. , Thimmesch Michael J. , Murphy Meredith , Kuechly Henry A. , Emmert Andrew S. , Grawe Brian
Published: January 2025

Background:

The use of quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction has been increasing since 2014. Studies have shown that QT is comparable to hamstring tendon (HT) and bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) autografts in terms of outcomes, although QT autograft has lower rates of donor site morbidity. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been previously conducted on this topic, although none have focused solely on data of patients at least 5 years out from surgery.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to demonstrate that QT may not be superior to BTB and HT autografts and that long-term studies must be performed before recommending QT over other graft choices. It was hypothesized that there would be less available data at ≥5 years of follow-up for patients with QT than those with HT and BTB autografts, and that patient-reported outcomes would be similar between all 3 graft choices.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus (Elsevier), Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were queried for studies that reported on QT, BTB, or HT outcomes at ≥5 years after ACL reconstruction (ACLR). In total, 27 studies were included; patient and outcome data were collected from each. Summary odds ratios were calculated for each outcome and compared between all graft types.

Results:

The sheer volume of available patient data on QT autografts at ≥5 years after ACLR is vastly different from what is available on HT and BTB autografts (which have almost 3 times the amount of patient data as compared with QT). HT had the highest failure rate (12.7%), followed by QT (9.1%) and BTB (6.4%); summary odds ratios favored BTB over both QT and HT in terms of failure rate. Patient-reported outcomes were comparable between graft types, although some comparisons were not adequately powered.

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis reveals critical information on the current state of the literature surrounding QT use in ACLR. Most notably, additional mid-term and long-term patient data are needed on those undergoing ACLR with QT autograft. There is not enough long-term outcome data on QT to recommend it over HT or BTB for primary ACLR.
High Intensity Physician-Based Service Use for Mental Health Concerns in a General-Population Sample of Children and Youth: Utilisation des services de haute intensité dispensés par des médecins pour les problèmes de santé mentale dans un échantillon d’enfants et de jeunes de la population générale
Authors: Edwards Jordan , Wang Li , Fuller Anne E. , Anderson Kelly K. , de Oliveira Claire , Georgiades Katholiki
Published: January 2025

Objective

To examine factors associated with high intensity physician-based mental health care services in a population-based sample of children and youth in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

Data from the 2014 Ontario Child Health Study (OCHS) were linked at the person-level to longitudinal health administrative databases containing physician contacts in outpatient settings, emergency departments and hospitals. Our analytical sample (15.8% of 9,301, n = 1,423) included children and youth with at least one physician-based contact for a mental health concern in the 24-month period post-OCHS. Over the same follow-up period, we classified high intensity service use as those in the top 10th and fifth percentiles of physician-based mental health service cost contributors. Costs were assessed using physician billing data, as well as estimated emergency department visit and hospitalization costs.

Results

Among those with at least one contact, being older (PR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.25), having more severe symptoms of mental ill-health (PR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.06) and having a history of mental health service use (PR: 3.99, 95% CI: 1.37, 11.61), were positively associated with high-intensity service use, while living in a rural setting (PR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.30) was negatively associated. Findings were largely consistent between the top 10th and fifth percentiles. Notably, among youth ages 14–17 years, self-reported prior suicide attempt was positively associated with high-intensity (top fifth percentile) service use (PR: 6.09, 95% CI: 1.41, 26.26).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest older age, non-rural residency, mental health symptom severity and suicidal behaviour are important factors associated with high-intensity physician-based mental health service use. Our findings will inform efforts to better identify children and youth who may benefit from early and personalized interventions.

Plain Language Summary Title

Understanding Children and Youth with the Greatest Mental Health Related Service Needs.
Internet Use and Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults in the U.S.: Unraveling the Differences by Gender
Authors: Lee Hee Yun , Kim Jeehoon , Yoon Young Ji , Kim Dongwook , Chipalo Edson
Published: January 2025

The daily Internet use among older adults has increased. This study examines how Internet usage affects depressive symptoms among older adults, focusing on gender differences. Using data from the 2015 National Health and Aging Trends Study ( N = 6380), weighted multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted. Men tended to access the Internet more for instrumental purposes and health-related matters compared to women. Conversely, women used social networking sites (SNSs) more frequently. Men were more inclined to use the Internet for personal tasks and health concerns than women. SNS use was positively associated with mild and major depression in men, while email or texting was negatively linked to their major depression. Internet use for health matters was negatively associated with major depression in women. The discussion emphasizes potential service and policy innovations aimed at leveraging digital technology to improve the mental health of older individuals, considering gender differences.
Can Students Make STEM Progress With the Large Language Models (LLMs)? An Empirical Study of LLMs Integration Within Middle School Science and Engineering Practice
Authors: Guo Qing , Zhen Junwen , Wu Fenglin , He Yanting , Qiao Cuilan
Published: January 2025

The rapid development of large language models (LLMs) presented opportunities for the transformation of science and STEM education. Research on LLMs was in the exploratory phase, characterized by discussions and observations rather than empirical investigations. This study presented a framework for incorporating LLMs into Science and Engineering Practice (SEP), utilizing a case study on submarine construction, followed by a four-week quasi-experimental validation. The research employed conditional cluster sampling, selecting two homogeneous natural classes from a middle school in China to serve as the experimental and control groups. The key experimental variable was the inclusion of LLMs in the SEP project. Various validated and self-developed assessment tools were used to measure students’ STEM learning outcomes. Statistical analyses, including pre- and post-test paired comparisons within classes and ANCOVA for between-class differences, were performed to evaluate the effects of LLM integration. The results showed that students participating in SEP integrated with LLMs significantly improved their mastery of scientific knowledge, attitudes towards science, perceived usefulness of technology, understanding of engineering, computational thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities. In contrast, students participating in traditional SEP exhibited weaker knowledge acquisition, differences in understanding engineering concepts, and lack of development in computational thinking and problem-solving skills. This study was a pioneering effort in integrating LLMs into science education and provided a framework and case reference for the deeper application of LLMs in the future.
Associations of Tai Chi With Depression and Anxiety Among Older Adults: Nationwide Study Findings From a Network Perspective
Authors: Chen Meng-Yi , Bai Wei , Zhang Ling , Sha Sha , Su Zhaohui , Cheung Teris , Ungvari Gabor S. , Wong Katrine K. , Jackson Todd , Yuan Feng , Xiang Yu-Tao
Published: January 2025

Within the global population, depression and anxiety are common among older adults. Tai Chi is believed to have a positive impact on these disturbances. This study examined the network structures of depression and anxiety among older Tai Chi practitioners vs non-practitioners. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to construct a non-practitioner group based on Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) data. 346 Tai Chi practitioners and 1019 non-practitioners were included. The prevalence and severity rates of depression were significantly lower among Tai Chi practitioners compared to non-practitioners though there was no group difference for anxiety. Network analysis showed that, among Tai Chi practitioners, “Felt sadness”, “Uncontrollable worrying” and “Trouble relaxing” were the most central symptoms. In contrast, among non-practitioners, the most central symptoms were “Felt sadness”, “Uncontrollable worrying”, and “Nervousness”. Key bridge symptoms linking depressive and anxiety symptoms were “Worry too much”, “Bothered by things” and “Uncontrollable worrying” in Tai Chi practitioners and “Nervousness”, “Felt nervous/fearful” and “Sleep quality” in non-practitioners. This study underscored how practising Tai Chi is associated with reduced overall prevalence and severity of depression and different interactions of depressive and anxiety symptoms among older adults. Central and bridge symptoms differed between Tai Chi practitioners and non-practitioners.
Impact of Anticholinergic Burden and Clinical-Demographic Characteristics on Incident Dementia in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Pham Nguyen Thanh Phuong , Thibault Dylan , Gray Shelly L. , Weintraub Daniel , Willis Allison W.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Anticholinergic medication use measured via the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden (ACB) scale has been associated with an increased dementia incidence in older adults but has not been explored specifically for Parkinson disease dementia (PDD). We used adjusted Cox models to estimate the risk of incident PDD associated with demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and time-varying total ACB in a longitudinal, deeply-phenotyped prospective PD cohort.

Major findings

56.5% of study participants were taking ACB-scale drugs at enrollment. Increasing age, motor symptom burden and psychosis were associated with PDD risk. Female sex and educational achievement were protective against PDD. ACB categories were not associated with PDD overall, but depression and impulse control disorder were strongly associated with PDD in a subsample with high baseline ACB.

Conclusions

Patient and clinical factors modify PDD risk. PD drug safety and drug-disease interaction studies may require considering multiple mechanisms and including dose-based, prospectively acquired medication exposure measures.
Experiences of children’s formal and lived participation in family law proceedings
Authors: Wågby Gräfe Angelica
Published: January 2025

This phenomenological study explores the social meaning of children’s participation in the world of the child in the life situation of family law proceedings. The findings, based on a qualitative analysis of interviews with children and young people, suggest that the meaning of formal participation is not necessarily experienced as inherent in the world of the child. Instead, incorporating the concepts of lived participation may provide a more comprehensive understanding of children’s participations, which is characterized by an inevitable relational complexity and an overextended sense of responsibility in experiences of familial conflicts and exposure of harm.
A novel assembly sequence evaluation and planning method in high-speed winding spindle assembly using hybrid metaheuristic algorithm
Authors: Ding Siyi , Lin Jia , Zhou Wenbo , Zhang Jie , Chen Hua
Published: January 2025

The assembly precision of the spindle has a direct impact on quality and performance of the high-speed winder. Assembly sequence is one of the key influencing factors. In actual production activities, the spindle assembly of high-speed winder has the characteristics of numerous parts and long process, which easily leads to illogical arrangement of assembly sequences and a high reassembly rate. In this paper, for the issue of assembly sequence planning (ASP), a novel assembly sequence evaluation system was established, and an ASP algorithm was designed. Firstly, the structure and assembly characteristics of spindle were analyzed. Then, an evaluation system for planning assembly sequences was built, taking into consideration two key factors: assembly efficiency and quality. A discrete flower pollination-genetic algorithm (DFP-GA) was explored to plan the spindle assembly sequence, presenting the rules for generating the initial population, designing a mechanism of dynamically adjusting the conversion probability, and incorporating a crossover-mutation operation of the genetic algorithm. These modifications have effectively addressed the problem of local optimal solutions, making the algorithm suitable for discrete optimization issues. Finally, this study conducted a comparative experiment of different algorithms using a simplified spindle. DFP-GA demonstrated a probability of obtaining the optimal sequence of up to 83%, exceeding other algorithms by 35%, 6%, and 31% respectively. It also exhibited significantly faster convergence speed, confirming its superiority in solving the ASP problem. This algorithm can enhance production efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs of spindles.
A novel approach for geometric accuracy synthesis of three degrees of freedom parallel mechanism
Authors: Wang Manxin , Wang Minghao , Li Lanbin , Li Yakai , Zhang Yuxuan , Wu Chuhan
Published: January 2025

Hybrid robots featuring a 1T2R parallel mechanism as their primary structure play a crucial role in on-site machining of large components. The end accuracy of these robots is a pivotal performance factor, determining their capability to fulfill the stringent requirements of on-site machining. This paper presents a novel approach for the accuracy synthesis, where the accuracy conformity, defined by the allowable accuracy, is the constraint and the manufacturing cost is the optimization objective. The methodology accounts for the workspace size employed in actual machining, preventing an increase in manufacturing cost caused by ensuring the accuracy within non-machining workspace. Using the newly developed R(RPS&RP)&2-UPS parallel mechanism as an example, the paper extensively details the accuracy modeling, sensitivity analysis, and accuracy synthesis. Moreover, the variations among error sources, allowable accuracy thresholds, and accuracy conformity are comprehensively analyzed. Finally, three sets of error source values are determined to achieve a balance between the cost-effectiveness and the corresponding requirements of accuracy conformity.
Multi-objective trajectory planning of segment erector considering error uncertainty
Authors: Cui Guangzhen , An Zhuoya , Xiao Yanqiu , Wang Pengpeng , Sun Chunya , He Zhendong
Published: January 2025

To meet the requirements for automation and precision in segment assembling and enhance the quality and efficiency of assembly, a multi-objective trajectory planning method considering error uncertainty is proposed for the trajectory planning strategy for segment erector under the conditions of heavy load and low-speed assembly. Based on the forward kinematics model of segment erector, the working space of segment erector is determined by Monte Carlo method, and the key track points are determined according to the actual operation requirements. The kinematic mapping relationship between Cartesian space and joint space is established based on the inverse kinematics model of segment erector, and the trajectory planning is carried out by using 5th-degree B-spline and 5th-degree polynomial respectively. Considering uncertainty errors caused by structural parameters, environmental factors, and joint space, the time, energy, and impact objective functions are established, and the comprehensive optimal trajectory is obtained based on the elite non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II). The results show that this method is an effective trajectory planning solution, which ensures that the segment erector moves smoothly, and has obvious advantages in reducing time, energy, and impact during the moving process.
Evaluation of input process parameters in turning operations affecting the thread cutting operation on NIMONIC 80A for dental implant device
Authors: Ramkumar Rajagopal , Senthil Kumar Bella Raman , Rathinavel Subbiah , Selvarajan Lakshmanan , Senthilkumar Thangarajan Sivasankaran
Published: January 2025

NIMONIC 80A, a nickel-chromium-based superalloy, is renowned for its outstanding mechanical strength, thermal stability, and resistance to corrosion, making it indispensable in high-stress applications like nuclear boilers, gas turbines, and dental implants. This study explores its machining performance in turning and thread-cutting processes, with a focus on precision and biocompatibility for dental implant applications. An L9 orthogonal array guided the experiments, varying spindle speed, feed rate, and depth of cut to examine their effects on material removal rate (MRR), chip thickness, and surface roughness (SR). Key findings indicated that higher spindle speeds and greater depths of cut enhanced MRR and chip thickness but negatively impacted SR. Optimal parameters to minimize SR were identified and applied to thread-cutting operations. Threaded samples underwent scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis to assess microstructural integrity and surface quality. The study established that a spindle speed of 1250 RPM, a feed rate of 0.3 mm/rev, and a depth of cut of 0.8 mm achieved the best MRR, while slower speeds and lower feed rates improved SR. The threaded components exhibited superior dimensional accuracy and surface properties, making them highly suitable for dental implant applications. Moreover, the absence of built-up edges at elevated spindle speeds improved machining efficiency. This research underscores the critical role of optimized machining parameters in producing high-quality threads for NIMONIC 80A, advancing its use in precision biomedical manufacturing and enhancing its application in dental implants.
Sustainability of compression ignition engine: Utilising sapota seed biodiesel with thermal barrier coated combustion chamber
Authors: Krishnamoorthi Thiruselvam
Published: January 2025

The production of biodiesel from sapota seed has potential to replace conventional diesel fuel due to its chemical characteristics. Sapota seed biodiesel has potential for reducing harmful pollutant emissions, however it has an engine performance bar below the diesel fuel. This research analysed sapota seed biodiesel in a thermal barrier-coated compression ignition (CI) engine as a solution to address the problem. In this research work, the combustion chamber parts – piston head and cylinder liner – are coated with alumina (Al2O3) and yttria-stabilised zirconia materials. The utilisation of an 80% blend of sapota seed biodiesel in a thermal barrier CI (TBC + BD 80) engine is considered a unique and innovative approach in the field of scientific investigation. The outcome of TBC + BD 80 showed that notable reduction in average specific fuel consumption. Specifically, there was a decrease of 13.47% and 20.78%. In addition, the brake thermal efficiency showed a significant improvement of 3.81% and 6.19% compared to conventional diesel fuel and biodiesel blend respectively. A decrease of 0.0196% in the volume of carbon monoxide was observed. In addition, there was a reduction of 12.6 ppm in the emission of unburned hydrocarbons. Additionally, a decrease of 8.16% in smoke opacity was observed. The concentration of NOx measured showed an increase of 425 ppm compared to the diesel fuel.
Design cookbook card deck in facilitating effective co-design in library contexts
Authors: Lee Kung Jin , Martin Caitlin Kennedy , Björling Elin A. , Rubio Juan , McLean Ryan , Lee Jin Ha
Published: January 2025

In this article, we introduce the Design Cookbook Card Deck, a tool designed to facilitate effective co-design in library contexts. This tool provides a structured yet flexible approach that is tailored to accommodate the diverse co-design experience levels of librarians. Here we assess the efficacy of the Design Cookbook Card Deck in supporting co-design projects led by librarians. Our investigation unfolds through a case study involving three co-design teams located in public libraries in different regions of the United States. We utilize a customized version of the card deck to facilitate discussions and programming related to teen mental health within libraries. Through practical use of the card deck and reflections from stakeholders, including librarians, teens, and researchers, we explore the cards’ utility, purpose, adaptability, and ideas for improvement. Our findings reveal that the cards serve as valuable aids, particularly for librarians new to the concept of co-design, and we highlight how the cards supported teens to participate in the activities. We recommend further adaptation and use of the card deck for additional testing in diverse contexts and participating librarians’ collective development of the card deck itself.
A medical trailblazer in the Ottoman Empire: The legacy of Dr Caroline Frances Hamilton (1861–1944)
Authors: İskefiyeli Zeynep , Yavuz Fikrettin
Published: January 2025

This article explores the life and work of Dr Caroline F. Hamilton, one of the pioneering female physicians sent from the USA to the Ottoman Empire in the late 19th century. Over a career spanning three decades, Hamilton provided critical medical care, especially to women, at the Azariah Smith Memorial Hospital in Aintab, overcoming legal, cultural, and political obstacles to become one of the first women licensed to practise medicine in the region. Her contributions, particularly in treating Muslim women who had limited access to male doctors, were significant in advancing healthcare in a conservative society. Hamilton’s role extended beyond direct patient care, she also trained local health workers, contributing to long-term improvements in healthcare. Her efforts during times of war, epidemics, and humanitarian crises exemplified her resilience and dedication. This article highlights Hamilton’s broader legacy, examining how her work reflects the intersection of gender, medicine, and missionary activity in a complex geopolitical context while also contributing to the introduction of Western medical practices in the Ottoman Empire.
Nurses on the outside, problems on the inside! The duty of nurses to support unions
Authors: Neiman Paul , Neiman Tammy
Published: January 2025

Healthcare is increasingly impacted by chronic short staffing of nurses, which causes and is caused by increased nurse burnout and decreased retention. Nurses’ unions seek to address these problems by proposing safer nurse-to-patient ratios, retention bonuses for working through the COVID-19 pandemic, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) stockpiles, sabbatical leaves, measures aimed at reducing workplace violence, and maintaining or increasing wages and benefits to keep nurses at the bedside. Chronic short staffing and burnout directly affect the quality and availability of patient care—as the International Council of Nurses has pointed out, there is no healthcare without healthcare workers. This article draws on Neiman’s argument that the US healthcare system is best understood as a system of competing interests aimed at fulfilling the community’s obligation to provide access to quality healthcare. Nurses’ unions use contract negotiations, legislative advocacy, and strikes to pressure other members of the healthcare community to address chronic short staffing, burnout, and retention. Nurses’ unions in the US thus play a unique role in the system of competing interest as an organized group whose primary interest aligns with the community’s obligation to provide access to quality healthcare. This article argues that nurses’ professional duty to care for patients includes a duty to support nurses’ unions as an important way to address the factors outside of nurses’ direct practice that impacts the quality and accessibility of the care that nurses provide to patients. This duty to support unions applies to unionized and non-unionized nurses in the US, and includes duties to participate in union activities, to not cross picket lines, and to avoid work for strikebreaking nurse agencies.
Creating a large open-access digital accounting resource: The University of Mississippi's eGrove accounting collection
Authors: Kurtz Royce D , Flesher Dale L
Published: January 2025

This paper describes the creation of the Digital Accounting Collection (DAC) hosted by the University of Mississippi library. Included are descriptions of the techniques, methodological issues, difficulties, limitations and opportunities encountered in creating a large (over 1,000,000 pages to date) open-access DAC. Some of the specific materials that have been digitised are listed. Most are part of the century-old collection of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants; others are materials of the accounting firm Deloitte, its predecessor companies and the Academy of Accounting Historians. Some usage statistics are included. The paper is written by two of the people responsible for creating the University of Mississippi's DAC.
Grappling with Grand Crises: An Ecosystem Approach
Authors: Kovoor-Misra Sarah , Gopalakrishnan Shanthi , Perez-Luno Ana , Sahasranamam Sreevas , Larraneta Barbara
Published: January 2025

Organizations are vulnerable to grand crises, such as pandemics, terrorism, and climate disasters that are complex and often require a crisis management ecosystem (CME) to address them. However, the nature and core features of CMEs have not received much attention in the crisis management literature. In this paper, we provide insights into the complexity of grand crises, and the core features of CMEs that are important to address them. We draw from the management literature on ecosystems and crisis resilience, and study CMEs that were used in the United States, Spain, and India to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic. We also discuss the contributions and implications of our paper for crisis management research and practice.
High-Grade Sarcomatous Transformation of Hybrid Hemosiderotic Fibrolipomatous Tumor-Myxoinflammatory Fibroblastic Sarcoma with Novel ADAMTS12::TERT Gene Fusion
Authors: Gandhi Jatin S. , Deeb Kristin K. , Chen Eleanor Y. , Bandhlish Anshu
Published: January 2025

Hemosiderotic fibrolipomatous tumor (HFLT) and myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcoma (MIFS) are rare, locally aggressive soft tissue tumors with a predilection for distal extremities of middle-aged adults. Hybrid tumors (HFLT-MIFS) demonstrate overlapping features of both and share recurrent translocation (1;10) (p22; q24). We describe a tumor with high-grade sarcomatous transformation of a hybrid HFLT-MIFS, with a novel ADAMTS12::TERT gene fusion, presenting as a right foot soft tissue mass in an 85-year-old woman. Histologically, the tumor showed a high-grade sarcoma with areas of hybrid HFLT-MIFS in subsequent resection. The patient was treated surgically with a below-knee amputation and interval radiation therapy. On RNA-based next-generation sequencing, the tumor harbored a novel ADAMTS12::TERT gene fusion. In addition to reporting a novel gene fusion in a rare example of hybrid HFLT-MIFS with high-grade sarcomatous transformation, we also discuss relevant morphological features of sarcomatous HFLT and provide a brief review of reported neoplasms with TERT gene fusions.
Why We Need to Rethink Measurement Invariance: The Role of Measurement Invariance for Cross-Cultural Research
Authors: Fischer Ronald , Karl Johannes A. , Luczak-Roesch Markus , Hartle Larissa
Published: January 2025

Claims about human behavior have been hampered by limited availability of comparable data across cultures. Invariance testing has been proposed to address questions about the comparability of data, yet statistical methods have been challenged on various grounds across psychology and related fields. We highlight how current debates confuse distinct issues and fail to consider the role of data within science. We aim to overcome the impasse by a) summarizing various criticisms, b) distinguishing five mapping processes that occur during a typical research project and c) exploring how thinking about invariance as mapping can move current discussions forward. Specifically, we differentiate 1) mapping ideas to theoretical constructs and concepts, 2) mapping constructs to stimuli, 3) mapping participants’ responses to stimuli onto numerical representations, 4) testing internal relations of stimuli responses (the typical focus of statistical invariance testing) and 5) mapping empirical observations back to theoretical statements. We treat invariance testing as a theory-guided process that offers important insights about instruments, construct validity and psychological theories throughout the research process that are currently missed by focusing on only the statistical details. Psychological claims that are valid for all humans depend on questions of invariance in the broad sense that we outline here.
Prospective Study of lncRNA NORAD for Predicting Cerebrovascular Events in Asymptomatic Patients with Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Fan Yan , Ma Yan , Wang Rui , Wang Lili
Published: January 2025

Background

Carotid artery stenosis (CAS) may cause many cerebrovascular diseases, and a biomarker for screening and monitoring is needed. This study focused on the clinical significance of long-chain non-coding RNA (lncRNA) non-coding RNA activated by DNA damage (NORAD) in patients with CAS and aimed to search for potential biomarkers of CAS.

Methods

Eighty-six asymptomatic patients with CAS and 60 healthy individuals were enrolled, with corresponding clinical data and serum samples collected. The expression of NORAD was detected by reverse transcription-quantitive PCR (RT-qPCR). All patients were followed up for 2 years to collected the occurrence data of cerebrovascular events, and Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression were used for data analysis. Receiver operator characteristic curve was used to analyze the diagnostic value of NORAD in distinguishing CAS patients from healthy people, and to evaluate the prediction accuracy of NORAD.

Results

NORAD is overexpressed in the serum of CAS patients, and associated with patients’ hypertension, TC, LDL-C levels and stenosis degree. NORAD has high sensitivity (88.37%) and specificity (80.00%) in the identification of CAS patients (AUC = 0.917). NORAD was independently related to the occurrence of cerebrovascular events (HR = 2.435, P = .003). a logistic regression risk model for predicting cerebrovascular events was constructed with the parameters including NORAD, TC and LDL.

Conclusion

NORAD can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for CAS, and NORAD, total cholesterol (TC), and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) can be independently correlated to predict cerebrovascular events.