bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Microbiological Quality of Some Marketed Spices in Lomé (Togo)
Authors: Kodzovi Kodjo , Bouraïma Djeri , Mamatchi Melila , Goto Bouka , Yaovi Ameyapoh
Published: May 2024

This comprehensive study delves deeply into the intricate process of optimizing fish product distribution routes in the expansive Western Kenya region, with an explicit focus on understanding and refining the operational strategies employed by Victory Farm Limited. Leveraging the Hungarian Method, celebrated for its unparalleled effectiveness in the realm of combinatorial optimization, the research endeavors to meticulously evaluate and fine-tune the shortest and most efficient transportation routes for seamlessly ferrying fish products from Kisumu Logistic Center to a myriad of distribution depots and retail markets scattered across the Western Kenya region's diverse landscape. Through an exhaustive analysis that spans road networks, logistical constraints, and the ever-evolving dynamics of market demand, this study systematically identifies and delineates optimal routes that not only minimize the distance traversed but also significantly mitigate associated transportation costs, all while steadfastly adhering to stringent standards for punctuality and product quality. Furthermore, by synergistically integrating sophisticated mathematical modeling techniques, meticulously executed through Python programming, with a robust foundation of real-world data meticulously sourced from Victory Farm Limited, this research endeavors to provide invaluable insights and pragmatic recommendations aimed at fortifying and enhancing the overall efficiency and profitability of fish product distribution operations throughout Victory Farm Western Kenya depots. In essence, the anticipated outcomes of this study transcend the realm of theoretical conjecture, poised instead to catalyze tangible advancements in the sustainable development of the region's burgeoning aquaculture sector, thereby fostering a lasting legacy of economic prosperity and environmental stewardship for generations to come.
Laryngo-Tracheo-Bronchial Foreign Bodies: Assessment of 10 Years of Activity at the Luxembourg Mother-Child University Hospital
Authors: Sidibé Youssouf , Samaké Djibril , Diarra Abraham , Konaté Idrissa , Sanogo Boubacar , Traoré Abdoul , Diarra Kassim , Coulibaly Amady , Singaré Kadidia , Keita Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Aim: Study the epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic aspects of laryngo-tracheo-bronchial foreign bodies. Materials and method: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study which focused on 41 cases of laryngo-tracheo-bronchial foreign bodies collected at the Mother-Child University Hospital Center “Le Luxembourg”, from March 31, 2013 to March 31, 2023. Results: Forty-one cases of laryngo-tracheobronchial foreign bodies were collected. The male gender represented 65.9%. Children under 2 years old accounted for 56.1%. The reasons for consultation were dyspnea in 73.2% and cough in 26.8%. The consultation time was 51.2% in the first 48 hours with extremes of 6 hours to 11 months. The history revealed a penetration syndrome in 78% of cases. The complementary examination of first resort was the front and lateral chest radiography. He did not visualize a foreign body in 75.6% of cases. Endoscopy was performed in all cases except for one case who died during transfer to the emergency room. The location was the right main bronchus in 63.4% of cases. The foreign bodies were organic in nature in 70.7% and 21 cases of peanut seed was found (51.21%). The postoperative course was simple in all cases under antibiotic-corticotherapy treatment. Conclusion: Laryngo-tracheo-bronchial foreign bodies predominate in young children. The most suggestive sign is penetration syndrome. The extraction must take place in the best conditions with a team experienced in this exercise.
A Moderating Effect of Financial Performance in a Relationship Between Ownership Structure and Firm Performance of Listed Commercial Banks in Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Bugaje , Okpe James , Muhammad Musa
Published: May 2024

In order to better understand the moderating impacts of financial performance, this article looks at the relationship between ownership structure and firm performance of Nigerian listed commercial banks. Data on ownership structure and yearly financial reports at the firm level from 2013 to 2022 are used in the empirical analysis. Panel regression analysis methods. Block share ownership and foreign share ownership were employed in this study as independent variables, while ROA was used as a leveraged moderating effect to quantify business performance. Descriptive research and correlational research design are thus employed in this study as suitable research designs. The results indicate that around 47% of all shareholders have shares held by shareholders who possess at least 5% of the company, which is a proxy for block ownership of common shares across commercial banks in Nigeria. The foreign share ownership mean is 22.65%, with a standard deviation of 3.93%, a minimum value of 0%, and a maximum value of 1%, respectively. This indicates a sharp decline in foreign investment as a result of the unpredictability of the market and the high level of insecurity that permeates the nation. The return on assets of the commercial banks that are quoted is positively and significantly impacted by foreign ownership; a rise of one unit in the variable results in a 4.0% return on assets. At the 1% significant level, leverage mediated the association between the dependent and independent variables (FSO*LEV and BSO*LEV). The study suggested using a non-linear model to explore the hypothesis that a firm's performance could affect its ownership structure and to estimate the impact of block ownership on firms' performance.
Introducing and Evaluation of Conservation Agriculture in Dry Land of Borana, Oromia, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tola Fenan , Lolo Isihak
Published: May 2024

The adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices could help smallholder farmers in Ethiopia enhance food security and appropriately manage climate change impacts. Conservation agricultural practice is intended to conserve, improve and make more efficient use of natural resources. However, despite these potential benefits, CSA is only practiced in some areas of Ethiopia and has not been sufficiently adopted by smallholder farmers. Therefore, this experiment was intended to improve the production and productivity of maize through different moisture conservation practices and to determine and recommend the best moisture conservation practices for agro-pastoralists in Yabello District, Borana Zone. The field experiment was conducted at Qobo, Qadale and Colksa Kebeles of Yabello districts for two consecutive years, from 2019 to 2020, the main cropping seasons. The experiments had four treatments (Runoff diversion, Furrow, Runoff diversion plus Furrow and Control) laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) of three replications. The analysis of variance showed that there was a significant difference among treatments in days to maturity, cob diameter, cob length, hundred seed weight and grain yield in all cropping seasons and locations. The highest grain yield was obtained from furrow with diversion structure treatment (5.83, 5.59, 4.2 t/ha), followed by diversion structure (5.51, 4.84, 3.9 t/ha) at Qadale, Colkasa and Qobo Kebeles, respectively. The lowest grain yield was recorded for the control (farmers practice) treatment (3.56, 3.05 and 3.36 ton/ha) at Qadale, Colkasa and Qobo Kebeles, respectively. In all sites, moisture conservation treatments (furrow plus diversion, diversion and furrow) have yield advantages of 2.27 t/ha (40.68%), 2.54 t/ha (45.44%), 0.84 t/ha (20%), 1.95 t/ha (35.39%), 1.79 t/ha (36.98%), 0.54 t/ha (13.84%) and 1.88 t/ha (34.55%), 2.02 t/ha (39.84%) and 0.36 t/ha (9.43%) more than farmer’s practices, respectively. Therefore, moisture conservation practices are recommended for optimum production of maize in moisture stress areas of Yabello District, Borana Zone.
Characteristics and Mechanisms of the Interannual Variability of the Northwest–Southeast Shift of the Tropical Easterly Jet’s Core in July
Authors: Liu Shihua , Huang Sihua , Tan Yanke , Wen Zhiping , Chen Xiaodan , Guo Yuanyuan
Published: May 2024

Previous studies have pointed out that the tropical easterly jet (TEJ) core varies longitudinally or latitudinally. Whether there is a linkage between longitudinal and latitudinal variations of the TEJ core remains unclear. We found that, on the interannual time scale, the northward (southward) movement of the TEJ core is typically accompanied by a westward (eastward) shift, characterized by a noticeable northwest–southeast (NW–SE) displacement. This NW–SE shift is most evident in July. A locational index is defined to capture this shift by the difference of area-averaged 200-hPa zonal winds between the western Arabian Sea (AS) and the southern tip of the Indian Peninsula. Observations and numerical simulations demonstrated that the northwestward-shifted (southeastward-shifted) TEJ core is caused by the joint and individual influences from the enhanced (suppressed) convective activities over the eastern AS and suppressed (enhanced) convective activities over the northern Bay of Bengal–South China Sea (BOB–SCS). Enhanced (suppressed) convective activities over the eastern AS can induce upper-tropospheric divergence (convergence) and anticyclonic (cyclonic) circulations to the northwest of the convection, leading to anomalous easterly (westerly) over the western AS. The suppressed (enhanced) convective activities over the northern BOB–SCS can further facilitate the northwestward (southeastward) shift through inducing anomalous cyclonic (anticyclonic) circulation centering at the BOB and the associated anomalous westerly (easterly) over the southern tip of the Indian Peninsula. The NW–SE shift of the TEJ core may have an implication for the change in the area of the intense rainfall in South Asia.

Significance Statement

The purpose of this study is to explore the linkage between the zonal and meridional variations of the core of the tropical easterly jet (TEJ) and its underlying mechanisms. We found that the TEJ core features a pronounced northwest–southeast shift and this phenomenon only occurs in July. Thus, we defined a locational index to depict this unique characteristic and reveal its relationship with the anomalous convective activities over the eastern Arabian Sea and the northern Bay of Bengal–South China Sea. These results may help improve our understanding of the characteristics and mechanisms of the variations of the TEJ core.
Cost, Operative Delay, and X-Rays for Incorrect Surgical Counts
Authors: Melland-Smith Megan , Chang Jenny , Essani Varisha , Maskal Sara , Ellis Ryan , Beffa Lucas , Petro Clayton , Prabhu Ajita , Krpata David , Miller Benjamin , Rosen Michael
Published: May 2024

At Cleveland clinic, an incorrect surgical count triggers Code Rust; a protocol that mandates an intraoperative patient X-ray, staff radiology read, and discussion with the surgeon before the incision is closed. Code Rust calls from November 2014 to December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Realtime workflow and operative details of Code Rust cases were analyzed.1277 Code Rusts were identified. Average time from ordering the X-ray to final radiology report was 50 minutes, totalling $2,362,450.00 spent on operating room time. Code Rust was called twice as frequently during urgent or emergent cases, compared to elective. There were more staff in Code Rust rooms compared to non-Code Rust rooms. A foreign body on X-ray was identified in 42/1277 (3.3%) cases. Code Rust is a resource intensive process that is more common in emergent cases that involve multiple staff. While retained foreign bodies are identified in a small percentage of cases, the current system should be revisited to reduce operating time and expense.
Microaggression Detection in Psychotherapy: Expanding Affirming Care for Transgender and Nonbinary Clients
Authors: Hunsicker Madeline J. , Stuart-Maver Shannon L. , Anders Christopher , Kivlighan D. Martin , Mahatmya Duhita , Bettergarcia Jay , Owen Jesse
Published: May 2024

Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) people report experiencing discrimination from therapists. A step to reducing these microaggressions is for therapists to be able to identify them. Psychological trainees and psychologists ( n = 105) were randomly assigned to watch a video vignette therapy session: a session with (a) blatant therapist microaggressions (nonaffirming), (b) therapist-led transition focus (transition affirming), and (c) gender exploration focus (nonbinary affirming). There was no difference in microaggression detection between the two affirming conditions. The microaggression condition of participants had a negative effect on ratings of therapist multicultural orientation (MCO). Additionally, attitudes towards transgender people moderated the relationship between microaggression conditions and ratings of therapist’s cultural humility for the affirming conditions; participants in the nonbinary affirming condition rated the therapist more culturally humble as their positive attitudes towards TGNB people increased, and participants rated the therapist as less culturally humble as TGNB attitudes increased in the transition affirming condition.
Geographical Indicators as Tools of Economic Development
Authors: Sood Ekta , Sharma Yogita
Published: May 2024

A geographical indication (GI) defines a product as being from a certain place, when the product’s quality, reputation, or other attributes are largely related to its location. GI is a collective property, not a private one. It can be registered by an organisation representing the interests of a group of people in practically all nations. GIs helps in achieving and boosting rural development, environmental sustainability, consumer awareness and many other aspects. GIs are especially beneficial to agricultural product producers since they allow them to differentiate their products from common commodity items such as rice, coffee and tea, allowing them to get market access. A sturdy GI ecosystem has numerous advantages. It will automatically address the three contentious issues faced by India—poor pay for talent, low female labour force participation and urban migration. On the evolution side, some GIs have resulted in improved and superior uniqueness of rural employment.
Indian Experience of CSR and Corporate Governance in the Post-liberalised Era
Authors: Kumar Sandeep
Published: May 2024

Corporate governance (CG) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have gained considerable space in business management literature in recent times. Both these concepts share many commonalities and overlap in the day-to-day operational and strategic life of business organisations. The purported aim of both CG and CSR is to ensure that corporations behave ethically and responsibly and are governed strictly according to the law while interacting with and empowering all the stakeholders. Therefore, it is important to explore the potential commonalities and hurdles in achieving synergy between CG and CSR in the Indian context. Indian CG serves the monopoly corporations by tweaking the basic principle of a free market economy. It leaves workers, customers, the environment, society and other important stakeholders in the vagaries of predatory market forces. Similarly, CSR in India, like elsewhere, is used to hide the systematic vices of the corporate sector. The unholy nexus of corporates, politicians and bureaucrats is killing the essence of CG and CSR synergy. Therefore, a strong, effective, non-partisan, transparent and independent policy-making, institutional, regulatory, accounting and audit mechanism must be implemented to insulate all stakeholders from the tyranny of monopoly corporations. This article uses an argumentative analytical method to conceptualise and theorise the different aspects of CG and CSR in the Indian context.
Optimising workplace health programmes using organisational culture: Post-COVID perspectives from managers and workplace health experts from the UK contact centre industry
Authors: Manner Jillian , Steffan Belinda , Jepson Ruth , Baker Graham
Published: May 2024

Contact centre workers experience disproportionately low physical activity levels and high sedentary behaviour levels, as well as an increased risk of negative occupational health outcomes such as anxiety and depression. Organisational culture factors such as strict work schedules and pressure to maintain productivity often impede the effectiveness of programmes to reduce these health risks. Despite its significance, organisational culture is often overlooked during the development and implementation of workplace health programmes due to its conceptually complex nature. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated organisational culture-related associations to workplace health programmes in contact centres. This study investigated how organisational culture influences the existence and effectiveness of workplace health programmes in contact centres and if/how COVID-19 disrupted these associations. Fifteen interviews were conducted with contact centre managers and workplace health experts between February and June 2021. Findings indicate that employee well-being is increasingly being prioritised within contact centres, especially post-pandemic, and that there is a legacy of COVID-19 to learn from the spotlight that was placed on employee well-being during the pandemic to improve workplace conditions for contact centre employees. Further, to maximise effectiveness and support positive organisational culture change, these findings should be considered during well-being programme planning, delivery, implementation and evaluation.
Has process hijacked purpose? Outlook on food systems transformation in the global climate change processes
Authors: Dinesh Dhanush , Zeppenfeldt Leanne , Thornton Philip , Campbell Bruce
Published: May 2024

There has been growing interest in the Conference of Parties (COPs) meetings of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in food systems, which account for a third of global emissions and are heavily impacted by climate change. While there has been much rhetoric about the need for transformation at recent COPs, we examine whether this solely remains at the level of rhetoric and ambition or is likely to deliver the climate action that is needed. Based on literature, documentation of UNFCCC meetings, and our own participation, we observe that progress in the past on agriculture has been extremely slow and has led to limited action, while the recent verbiage on food systems has not been matched by significant progress in the negotiations. The urgent action needed is not realised through the UNFCCC processes. New and radically different ways to catalyse action are needed, and the UNFCCC process urgently needs reform as part of wider multilateral reforms. We propose that the scale of the COPs is reduced and that the focus shifts to the results delivered through rigorous evaluation, accountability and transparency, and a shift towards less consensus-based approaches to drive action and ambition.
Modified polyacrylonitrile fibers manufactured using nanocellulose, graphene or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon for precursors for functional carbon fibers
Authors: Bertram Paul , Kuznik Irina , Cherif Chokri , Kruppke Iris
Published: May 2024

E-mobility systems require the provision of efficient, lightweight and durable battery solutions. Here, novel solutions for efficient energy storage are needed, which aim at combining the performance of supercapacitors with structural capabilities realized by the use of functional carbon fibers. To achieve functional carbon fibers, different additives are used to modify carbon fibers starting with the precursor. Polyacrylonitrile blends with nanocellulose, graphene or polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon have been spun using solvent wet spinning. Different ratios of post-drawing were performed to investigate the influence on the mechanical properties of the precursor fibers. They were characterized by tensile tests and morphological investigations.
Utilizing the Urban Education Typology: A Content Analysis of Selected Citations
Authors: Young Jemimah , Williams John , Díaz Beltrán Ana Carolina , James Marlon , Ogletree Quinita , Neshyba Monica , Worely Cristina
Published: May 2024

In the seminal work “But What Is Urban Education?” from 2012, Richard Milner proffered a typology to better represent urban spaces as conceptions of urbanization's evolution. The typology consists of three descriptors, to which each highlights the manner in which population density influences the availability of resources to support culturally diverse learners: urban intensive (large spatially dense cities), urban emergent (large suburbs and mid-sized cities), and urban characteristic (smaller suburbs and some rural areas). In the present study, we used a cited reference search strategy to locate and retrieve 319 articles citing the Milner article. Then, through quantitative content analysis, we characterized the prevalence and utilization of the typology in educational research. Our results indicate that researchers have used Milner's urban typology to frame urban settings and contexts ( n  =  227). Moreover, the citation of the typology has consistently increased each year from 2012 to 2020. The majority of authors citing the typology have accepted it as a suitable framework to describe the urban characteristics of their study. Several authors have identified limitations and constraints related to the typology and have adapted, expanded, or rejected the typology. We provide implications to support theory development and empirical evaluation in urban educational spaces.
Stanley Milgram’s Purloined Letter: A Plea for a Normative Interpretation of the “Obedience to Authority” Experiments
Authors: Künstler Raphaël
Published: May 2024

I argue here that the theoretically central aspect of Stanley Milgram’s “experiments on obedience to authority” continues to elude main current commentators because it does not fit into the current paradigm of Milgram’s studies: the presentation and the justification of a set of rules to the subjects. I argue that taking this fact into account radically changes the interpretation of the subjects’ conduct: they are not submitting to an authority, they are not obeying orders, but they are applying a justified rule. If such is indeed the case, the interpretation of the experiments should not be primarily psychological, but normative.
Music as an Anti-Caste Counterpublic: Notes From North India
Authors: Kalyani K.
Published: May 2024

This article aims to understand the acts of resistance in the everyday music of oppressed caste communities and the repertoire of anti-caste musical performances in specific moments in history. The everyday soundscape has the potential to bring together shared experiences of displacement, casteism, and social exclusion. For dalit–bahujan singers, an engagement with music is a resource with which to ‘talk back’ to the structures of caste and to recast their identity. The practices of such musical form have also been part of the cultural transmission of an anti-caste narrative. Using printed material and oral narratives collected during fieldwork in selected regions of North India, this article explores anti-caste musical practices. It engages with the concept of ‘counterpublics’ and the implications of the term ‘anti-caste counterpublics’ for an understanding of anti-caste movements.
Preoperative Clinical and Ultrasonographic Predictors for Aggressive Behaviors in Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Carcinomas
Authors: Zhong Yanmi , Du Meixia , Wu Qiong , Zhan Bing , Fang Shibao , Zhao Cheng , Ning Chunping
Published: May 2024

Objective: To explore the clinical and ultrasonographic predictors for aggressive behaviors preoperatively in sporadic medullary thyroid carcinomas (MTCs). Materials and Methods: The preoperative clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics of patients diagnosed with MTCs between January 2009 and May 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. MTCs were described and categorized according to the American College of Radiology (ACR) thyroid imaging reporting and data system classification by 2 radiologists. Interobserver agreement was evaluated by kappa test. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of aggressive behaviors in MTCs. The log-rank test was utilized to compare differences in Kaplan-Meier (K-M) curves for postoperative disease-free survival (PDFS). Results: A total of 120 patients were enrolled in the final study. Male sex was significant risk factor for metastasis, perithyroidal invasion, and lateral cervical lymph node (LCLN) metastasis [odds ratio (OR): 3.109, P = .019; OR: 5.316, P = .018; OR: 5.154 P = .012, respectively]. The kappa values for all ultrasonic characteristics were high (ranged from 0.811 to 0.941). Size, focality, and margin of the nodule were independent risk factors for metastasis, as well as for LCLN metastasis. Whereas margin ( P < .001) and a subcapsular location ( P = .021) were risk factors for perithyroidal invasion. According to K-M analysis, PDFS of patients differed significantly between groups with/without metastasis ( P < .001), groups with/without perithyroidal extension ( P < .001) and groups with/without LCLN metastasis ( P < .001). Conclusions: Male sex is an independent risk factor for metastasis, perithyroidal invasion, and LCLN metastasis. The large size (≥2.55 cm for metastasis, ≥2.15 cm for LCLN metastasis, respectively), multifocality, and irregular margin of nodules were independent risk factors for both metastasis and LCLN metastasis. Extrathyroidal extension and a subcapsular location were risk factors for perithyroidal invasion. Moreover, patients with metastasis/perithyroidal extension/LCLN metastasis exhibited worse PDFS.
Is television reformable? The ‘reformist tendency’ in inequality research in the cultural and creative industries
Authors: Newsinger Jack , Kennedy Helen , Aust Rowan
Published: May 2024

This article engages with research on UK Television (UKTV) and the wider cultural and creative industries by interrogating the role of academic research in industrial and social change. We argue that a ‘reformist tendency’ implicitly structures much creative industries research. This reformist tendency takes a critical approach to the problem of inequality, identifying it and making it visible, and at times developing strategies which attempt to enhance and promote greater equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Academic research seeking to reform the media and creative industries increasingly works in collaboration with – often relatively powerful – social actors within these industries. However, the creative industries in general and UKTV in particular, have shown a remarkable resistance to reform and remain characterised by persistent inequalities in terms of class, race, gender and disability. This article explores this problem aiming to provoke debate into the role of academic-industry collaboration in the failure of creative industries EDI. It argues that academics should adopt a more reflexive and selective approach to collaboration.
Are there cross-cultural differences in the transformation of motivation process in close relationships?
Authors: Chen Po-Heng , Chittham Phakkanun , Williamson Hannah C.
Published: May 2024

When faced with an undesirable behavior by one’s partner, theories of relationship maintenance indicate that individuals must undergo a transformation of motivation in order to set aside their initial impulse to respond in a self-centered manner, and instead choose to respond in a pro-relationship manner. However, the cultural psychology literature indicates that a primary focus on one’s own needs and goals is predominantly a feature of individualistic cultures, such as those in the Unites States and Western Europe which have been the setting for the vast majority of close relationships research. Thus, it is possible that people from less individualistic cultural contexts do not experience this same transformation of motivation process when faced with an undesirable behavior by their partner, because their initial impulse is less self-centered and more other- or relationship-centered. To test this hypothesis we conducted pre-registered replications of two classic studies documenting the transformation of motivation process (Yovetich & Rusbult, 1994) using a cross-cultural sample of participants from the U.S. and Thailand. The extent to which people in both cultural settings engaged in the transformation of motivation process was assessed in a correlational study ( N = 187) and an experimental study ( N = 328) of partnered individuals. Results indicate that participants in both cultural contexts experience a transformation of motivation process, and the magnitude of the transformation did not differ between the two countries. Exploratory analyses indicate that Thai participants engaged in more passive behaviors than U.S. participants, and U.S. participants thought passive behaviors were more harmful than active behaviors. Overall, when faced with an unpleasant behavior by one’s partner, the need to set aside one’s initial impulse in order to respond in a more pro-relationship manner appears universal, but the exact behaviors that are the endpoint of that process differ across cultures.
Development of SiNWs based electrochemical sensor for trace level detection of arsenic
Authors: S Shalvi , Gautam Varsha , Nagpal Suman , Verma Kanak Lata , Jain Vinod Kumar , Kumar Avshish
Published: May 2024

In the present study, we present a unique sensing platform relies on a silicon nanowire (SiNW) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) hybrid nanostructure capped with (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) and polyethylene glycol gold nanoparticle (PEG-AuNPs). Herein, MACE technique was applied to synthesize SiNWs, which was then used to develop a sandwich hybrid nanostructure by casting of rGO/APTES/PEG-AuNPs on its surface under room temperature and was characterised using various techniques. The developed PEG-AuNPs/rGO@APTES/SiNWs hybrid nanostructure-based sensing platform was used to detect two types of arsenic, that is, arsenite (As3+) and arsenate (As5+) using cyclic voltammetry in a sensitive and selective manner wherein the presence of arsenic species in real sample (blood) as well as standard samples was recorded.
Thermal barrier coating on Inconel 718: understanding cyclic oxidation kinetics
Authors: Prabhu Rajalingam , Kavimani Vijayananth , Gopal Pudhupalayam Muthukutti , Sahadevan Jhelai
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the cyclic oxidation behaviour of a thermal barrier coating (TBC) system applied to Inconel 718 alloy substrates. The TBC comprises a NiCr bond coat and a YSZ top coat, applied using the air plasma spray method. Cyclic oxidation studies involve subjecting the coated samples to repeated heating and cooling cycles, with mass gain measurements taken after each cycle. Vibrational modes and surface morphology are analysed before and after oxidation. Results reveal a gradual increase in mass gain up to the 4th cycle, attributed to interface bonding and diffusion-limited growth. Thermal cycling induces stresses, leading to micro cracking and accelerated oxidation. Oxidation kinetics follows both parabolic and linear laws, with rates decreasing over cycles. Kl values consistently exceed Kp, indicating faster linear growth. The study enhances understanding of TBC behaviour under cyclic oxidation conditions, critical for improving durability in practical applications.
Impact of graphene concentration on crystallinity, rheological, and mechanical characteristics of a polypropylene copolymer
Authors: Ost Charles A , Beltrami Lilian VR , Lazzari Lídia K , Piazza Diego , Zattera Ademir J
Published: May 2024

This study examines the impact of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) on the properties of a CP442XP polypropylene (PP) copolymer. GNP was added in concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% by mass, alongside a 2% flake graphite blend. An objective of this work is to prepare the material using industrial equipment. Therefore, PP/GNP composite production involved twin-screw extrusion for mixing and injection molding to produce samples. Characterization as crystallinity by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), mechanical and thermal properties, morphology and rheological properties are investigated. Results indicate that 0.5% and 1% GNP enhance PP crystallinity, due to GNP particles acting as nucleation sites. However, 2% GNP reduced crystallinity, possibly due to poor dispersion. Besides that, the PP copolymer usually starts with a better impact strength, compared to a PP homopolymer. Mechanical analysis showed that 1% GNP in PP improves elasticity but reduces impact strength at higher concentrations, indicating a stiffer polymer matrix. Rheological analysis revealed that 1% GNP in PP lowers viscosity at shear rates of 10 to 100 1/s, suggesting less energy required for polymer processing. In summary, low GNP concentrations beneficially modify the mechanical properties and rheology of PP copolymers. Some properties are possible to achieve even using standard industrial equipment.
The Moral Impacts of Organizational Stress on Correctional Officers
Authors: Ricciardelli Rosemary , Johnston Matthew S. , Mario Brittany
Published: May 2024

Organizational stress (i.e., structural aspects of the organization such as excessive workload, shiftwork, gossip) has long been found by public safety personnel to be more impactful on their health and wellness than operational stress (i.e., inherent stresses of the job such as altercations, intervention in suicide behaviors). In the current study, which engages semi-structured interviews conducted with 28 correctional officers employed at one provincial prison in Atlantic Canada, we unpack through a lens of moral distress four prevalent sources of organizational stress among correctional officers that emerged in the data without categories precogitated, with a focus on participant experiences and expressed similarities across accounts: (1) management, (2) staff retention, (3) training needs, (4) lack of mental health support. Findings indicate organizational stress has a significant impact on correctional officers and these sources of organizational stress are exacerbated by officers’ moral and ethical vulnerabilities emergent from their conditions of employment. We recommend several practical changes to ease the strains and moral harms felt by correctional officers and better support their mental health and well-being, such as increasing staffing levels, providing more education and training opportunities for frontline officers and senior leaders, and providing more adequate mental health support for correctional officers.
Procedural Interventions for Terminally Ill Children – Are We Aiding Palliation?
Authors: Phillips Hannah , Perry Sarah , Shinkunas Laura A , Carlisle Erica M
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Many children undergo surgery or an invasive procedure during their terminal hospital admission. 1 The types of procedures, patients, and the intent of the procedures has not been well defined. Understanding these details may help pediatric surgeons better determine the clinical settings in which certain procedures will not enhance palliation or survival. Methods: A retrospective single institution chart review was performed for patients age 14 days to 18 years with chronic conditions who died while inpatient from 2013–2017. Data was gathered on demographics, primary diagnosis, intubation status, palliative care involvement, duration of hospital stay, length of palliative care involvement, and total number of procedures. Negative binomial regression was used to assess association with number of procedures. Results: 132 children met inclusion criteria. Most children were White and less than one year old. The most common type of diagnosis was cardiac in nature. Children underwent an average of three procedures. 75% were intubated and 77.5% had palliative care involved. Patients who were less than one year old at death were more likely to have been intubated, had longer terminal hospital stays, and had more procedures. Those who were intubated underwent more procedures and had longer hospital stays. Those with longer palliative care involvement had fewer procedures. Conclusions: Children undergo a significant number of surgical procedures during their terminal hospitalization. This may be influenced by age, intubation status, and length of stay. Ongoing study may help refine which procedures may have limited impact on survival in the chronically ill pediatric population.
CAD-Related Disorder (EIEE-50) in an Infant With Cortical Visual Impairment
Authors: Thurman Sarah , Fischer Callie , Guerin Julie , Gavrilova Ralitza , Brodsky Michael
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To document the association of CAD-related disorder (EIEE-50) with cortical visual impairment.

Observations

An 8-month-old Caucasian boy with whole genome sequencing confirming 2 variants in the gene CAD, who presented with severe seizures, microcephaly, hyperreflexia, hypotonia, anemia, and severe cortical visual impairment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain noted thickened cortical gray matter along the right calcarine fissure as well as changes suggesting malformation of cortical development. Empiric uridine monophosphate supplementation has significantly improved seizure activity, hypotonia, and development and has led to resolution of anemia.

Conclusions and Importance

CAD-related disorder is treatable and may affect visual cortical development causing severe secondary cortical visual impairment, a newly described clinical manifestation.
Mg-Sr-Ca containing bioactive glass nanoparticles hydrogel modified mineralized collagen scaffold for bone repair
Authors: Sun Yi , Shi Min , Niu Bowen , Xu Xiangyang , Xia Wen , Deng Chao
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to explore the therapeutic effects of Mg-Sr-Ca containing bioactive glass nanoparticles sodium alginate hydrogel modified mineralized collagen scaffold (Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs-SA-MC) on the repair of osteoporotic bone defect. During the study, Mg-Sr-Ca containing bioactive glass nanoparticles (Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs) were synthesized using the sol-gel method, and the Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs-SA-MC scaffold was synthesized by a simple method. The Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs and the Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs-SA-MC scaffold were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The elements of Mg, Sr, Ca and Si were effectively integrated into Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs. SEM analysis revealed the presence of Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs on the scaffold’s surface. Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of the scaffolds were assessed using a live/dead assay. The result of the live/dead assay demonstrated that the scaffold materials were non-toxic to cell growth. More importantly, the in vivo study indicated that implanted scaffold promoted tissue regeneration and integration with newly formed bone. Overall, the Mg-Sr-Ca-BGNs-SA-MC scaffold is suitable for guided bone regeneration and beneficial to repair of osteoporotic bone defects.
Analysis of single-point warm incremental forming for glass fiber-reinforced polyamide 6 sheets: Experimentation and simulation
Authors: Mirnia Kalaei Seyed Milad , Razbin Milad , Emami Mohammad , Gholami Mohammad Reza , Salehian Mortaza , Biglari Farid Reza
Published: May 2024

The single-point warm incremental forming (SPWIF) methodology significantly enhances the formability of composite materials, enabling precise and efficient shaping of complex geometries. This research investigates the impact of several design parameters such as fiber weight fraction (0%, 20%, 30% by weight), process temperature (80°C, 120°C, 180°C), step size (0.25 mm, 0.50 mm, 0.75 mm), and fiber orientation (0°, 22.5°, 45°) on the formability of glass fiber-reinforced polyamide six sheets. Employing the Taguchi design of experiments methodology, a systematic study was undertaken. The sample with a 20% fiber weight fraction, 80°C process temperature, 0.50 mm step size, and 0° fiber orientation showed the greatest forming depth at 5.5 mm. Additionally, the study highlighted the predominant influence of fiber weight fraction on forming depth, attributing a significant contribution percentage of 58.75% to forming depth. Moreover, a numerical analysis, encompassing the homogenization of the composite sheet and simulation of the SPWIF process, was conducted. The findings revealed a consistent trend for both experimental and numerical results. For depth analysis, the thickness distribution was simulated, aligning with the observed experimental trends. This demonstrates the reliability of the numerical results. This research not only provides a detailed analysis of the SPWIF process in shaping composite sheets but also serves as a valuable resource for scholars engaging in numerical analyses within this domain.
An IGSA-VMD method for fault frequency identification of cylindrical roller bearing
Authors: Guo Yingying , Ho Yi Ki , Zhao Xuezhi , Zhang Chunliang , Long Shangbin
Published: May 2024

The number of intrinsic mode function (IMF) and quadratic penalty factor (QPF) are two important parameters in variational mode decomposition (VMD) for fault frequency identification of cylindrical roller bearing, but it is difficult to obtain the optimal values by experiential knowledge. Accordingly, an improved gravitational search algorithm (IGSA) with nonlinear decreasing inertia weight factor is integrated into the VMD, namely as IGSA-VMD, for adaptive selection of the two parameters. Firstly, a target function of minimum envelope entropy is defined in the IGSA to optimize the IMF number and QPF. Secondly, the optimized two parameters are employed to decompose the measured vibration signals into several IMF components by utilizing the VMD. Finally, the feasibility of proposed IGSA-VMD method is validated through the fault frequency identification of cylindrical roller bearing and the benchmark test dataset from Case Western University. Both the simulative and experimental results show that the extracted fault frequencies are highlighted more clearly by utilizing the IGSA-VMD comparing to the PSO-VMD and the traditional VMD. The proposed IGSA-VMD is a more efficient and effective vibration diagnostic approach for outer race and roller fault frequencies extraction from original vibration signals of cylindrical roller bearings in rotary machines.
An empirical investigation of the impact of energy consumption, globalization and natural resources on ecological footprint and economic growth, evidence from China, Japan, South Korea and China Taiwan
Authors: Zhu Kuiquan , Ali Arshad , Zhang Taiming , zada Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Natural resources are regarded as important indicators that make great contributions to reducing environmental pollution and promoting growth in today's era of globalization. Thus, a more rigorous assessment of the complexity of determining growth and ecological footprint is critical. This study examines the dynamic linkages between globalization, natural resources, renewable and non-renewable energy use, ecological footprint and growth in Taiwan, Japan, China, and South Korea from 1975 to 2020. In terms of the certainty of cross-sectional dependence of panel variable data, this study uses second-generation panel unit root, cointegration, long-term elasticity, and two-way causality estimation tests to obtain reliable and valid results. The findings explore the fact that environmental degradation is substantially mitigated by the using of renewable energy sources, while other underlying factors, such as non-renewable energy sources, natural resource rent (NRR), economic growth, and globalization, exacerbate environmental pollution. In addition, the use of renewable and non-renewable energy, NRRs and globalization drive economic progress. Globalization and ecological footprint have a bilateral causal association. The research analysis supports the feedback hypothesis based on a bidirectional causal relationship between renewable energy use and ecological footprint. Based on the empirical findings of the current study, various policy endorsements are proposed to scare and control environmental damage without hampering growth in specific East Asian economies.
Performance estimation of continuous-time autonomous switched linear systems via square coordinate transformations
Authors: Lin Meili , Han Junfeng , Xu Yong
Published: May 2024

Continuous-time autonomous switched linear systems are important not only theoretically but also practically in various engineering applications. This paper addresses the problem of performance estimation in such systems by approximating the spectral abscissa. Based on the square coordinate transformation methodology, a computational procedure is proposed to get the least [Formula: see text] measure of the equivalent system. A systematic way is first introduced to find the transformation matrix in the sense that the [Formula: see text] measure of the equivalent system equals the given desired value if it exists. Then, an iterative algorithm is developed to obtain the sequence of [Formula: see text] measures of the equivalent system which is convergent, and its limit can be used for estimating the spectral abscissa of the original switched linear system. At last, numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the method, which shows that it does overcome the limitations of the transformation orders to get better estimation of spectral abscissa.