bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Impact of Foundation Pit Construction on the Deformation of Underlying Metro Tunnels
Authors: Wang Lin , Xu Peng , Ma Zhenshuo , Yang Ruisong , Liu Pingfei
Published: November 2024

The excavation of a foundation pit will cause soil unloading, resulting in the structural deformation of underlying tunnels, which affects the safety of tunnel operation. Here, the impact of foundation pit excavation on the structural deformation of the metro interval tunnel underlying a foundation pit support project for a storage pond is analyzed through theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and on-site monitoring, and corresponding safety control measures are proposed. The research shows that simplifying the tunnel into an infinite-length Euler–Bernoulli beam resting on the Kerr foundation model has good rationality and applicability when analyzing the impact of pit construction on the deformation of the interval tunnel. The distance between the foundation pit and the tunnel cross-section significantly affects the deformation of the tunnel structure, and the shorter the straight-line distance from the pit foundation, the more obvious the structural deformation of the interval tunnel. The maximum deformation of the tunnel structure occurs in the upper-left area of the middle of the tunnel near the foundation pit, and the deformation shows a nonlinear decreasing trend toward the two ends of the tunnel. Timely support can effectively inhibit the deformation of the foundation pit, and the spatial and temporal effects of foundation pit excavation on the underlying tunnels should be minimized during construction. The impact on the structural deformation of the underlying tunnels should be mitigated in strict accordance with the three-level control principle: early warning, alarm, and control. The research results provide a reference for guiding foundation pit construction.
Mastectomy Surgical Recommendations for Female-to-Male Transgender Patients, and a Discussion of Gender-Affirming Care for Gender-Dysphoric Adolescents
Authors: Gupta Aneesh , Marvel Jeffrey
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Subcutaneous mastectomy (top surgery) in female-to-male patients is one of the most common procedures gender-dysphoric patients will undergo in order to live as their desired gender.

Procedure:

By consistently using the technique described in this article, surgeons can achieve consistent and aesthetically pleasing results. Complications are rare, but it is important to inform the patient that there may be issues related to bleeding, infection, wound healing, nipple necrosis (if using a graft), or dog ears.

Discussion:

Multiple states in the United States are seeking to ban this type of care and are even attempting to restrict health care for adults. These bans are being enacted despite carefully researched and written guidelines from major international organizations. By following these guidelines, physicians can provide safe and evidence-based care to adolescents.

Conclusion:

The evidence conclusively demonstrates that providing gender-affirming care to patients of all ages improves their mental health, reduces rates of depression, and decreases the risk of suicide.
Severe uterovaginal prolapse and start of peritoneal dialysis: Role of colpocleisis surgery. Report of two cases
Authors: Boni Brivio Giulia , Bar Enrica , Giuliani Silvia , Cossettini Althea , Cappelletti Agnese , Viglino Giusto , Neri Loris
Published: November 2024

Utero-vaginal prolapse is a common condition in the female population. In addition to well-known predisposing risk factors malnutrition, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and dialysis technique may favour its occurrence or aggravation, especially in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Depending on severity, a relative contraindication to peritoneal dialysis (PD) could be considered. We report the cases of two patients with a grade IV utero-vaginal prolapse who successfully started PD after obliterative surgery (partial colpocleisis by Le Fort).
Controlling harmful milling vibration for robotic milling system based on the optimization of milling posture and spindle speed
Authors: Zhao Xiong , Zheng Lianyu , Shi Maoyuan , Zhang Yuehong
Published: November 2024

Harmful machining vibration including milling chatter and resonance are easily generated during robotic milling process, and it seriously restrict the machining ability of the robot. To address this problem, a harmful machining vibration-controlled method based on the combined optimization of milling posture and spindle speed is proposed for robotic milling system in this paper. With this context, firstly, the robot stiffness model is established based on the theory of the multi-body with small-deformation, and the stiffness ellipsoid at the tool cutting point is used to optimize the milling posture, so that the structure stiffness of the robot can be enhanced; Then, the robot chatter stability model is constructed considering the modal coupling effect, and the spindle speed is optimized to restrain the milling chatter and resonance. Finally, with the optimized milling posture and spindle speed, the milling process is planned and performed with a Staubli TX-200 robot, and two experiments for workpiece with steel and aluminum are implemented to verify the proposed method. The experiment results demonstrate that the comprehensive optimization of milling posture and spindle speed can efficiently control the harmful machining vibration for the robotic milling system, thus, the machining quality of the workpiece can be improved.
Are AI tools better than traditional tools in literature searching? Evidence from E-commerce research
Authors: Tomczyk Przemysław , Brüggemann Philipp , Mergner Niklas , Petrescu Maria
Published: November 2024

This article examines the potential implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for literature search, comparing AI-based tools to conventional research methods. It also addresses the scarcity of academic literature on specific AI tools for research writing, posing four critical questions regarding accuracy, quality, uniqueness, and qualified uniqueness. Employing Algorithmic Theory and Data Dependency Theory, this project scrutinizes AI performance in algorithms, machine learning models, and data quality. Testing nine e-commerce topics using Scopus, Web of Science, Elicit, and SciSpace, the authors conclude that while conventional methods excel in accuracy and quality, AI tools show promise in uniqueness, complementing literature reviews. The findings also emphasize the judicious integration of AI tools and advocate for further research into new applications and diverse fields. Ultimately, this research offers highly relevant insights into leveraging AI tools to enhance conventional literature search practices in research and professional domains.
Scientific debate, misinformation, and the COVID-19 pandemic: Considerations from a medical regulatory perspective
Authors: Davies Mark
Published: November 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic was accompanied by misinformation, including claims that COVID-19 is a hoax and denial of scientific ideas. This article focuses on one important aspect of professional behaviour related to the pandemic, the involvement in the United Kingdom of medical doctors in discussions about COVID-19 who have been deemed to have crossed a line regarding what is acceptable and professionally appropriate freedom of expression. Important considerations involve the approaches of the General Medical Council (GMC) as instigator of misconduct proceedings and Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) as adjudicator, to freedom of expression in the context of article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms and otherwise, and the extent to which their decisions and other professional guidance assists doctors in seeking to predict the professional boundaries to their freedom of expression. The challenges are exacerbated by the fact that COVID-19 is the first global pandemic in the Internet age. Voices propagating minority, unevidenced, even conspiratorial opinions may readily access an audience of thousands, even millions. If those propagating such opinions are medical doctors, the trust placed in their words may be magnified.
Can Different Corporate Social Responsibility Expenditure Impact Reputation of a Company Differently?
Authors: Baruah Loopamudra , Panda Nagari Mohan
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

This article aims to examine the impact of different corporate social responsibility (CSR) expenditures on the reputation of a company.

Design/methodology/approach:

The article develops four hypotheses that are tested empirically through the Panel Corrected Standard Error model (PCSE). The study constitutes a sample of 100 Indian BSE-listed companies between 2015 and 2020.

Findings:

The findings provide an interesting observation about the relationship shared between CSR expenditure and its impact on the reputation of a company. Also, from the context of the triple bottom line (TBL), when CSR expenditure was segregated into economic, social, and environmental expenses it was found that only social expenditure impacts reputation significantly.

Managerial implications:

The companies’ priority should be to practice CSR with the motive of benefiting society. Parallel to this, the company may find the right balance of resource allocation for spending in CSR activities that might help the company achieve a higher reputational position.

Originality/value:

As per the authors’ knowledge, there is scarce literature exploring the relationship between CSR expenditure and corporate reputation in emerging markets like India. This research is integral as it would encourage companies to integrate CSR expenditures into their business strategy in such a way that it may give a boost to their current reputation status and bring along with itself many benefits to the company as discussed in the literature. This article is incremental to the existing literature by examining these topics in an emerging country. This exploration provides a glance into the present scenario of an emerging economy.
Book review: Soumyen Sikdar, The Post-Reform Indian Economy: An Evolving Story
Authors: Krishnakumar S.
Published: November 2024

Soumyen Sikdar, The Post-Reform Indian Economy: An Evolving Story Orient Blackswan, 2023, 432 pp. ₹1,225, ISBN: 9789354424588 (Paperback).
Exploring Factors Affecting Central Bank Digital Currency Adoption: A Perspective from Generation Z
Authors: Kaur Harshdeep , Kaur Rajwinder , Mago Monita , Singh Manjit , Mehta Kanika
Published: November 2024

The rise of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) is a crucial development in the evolution of financial systems. The purpose of this study was to investigate Gen-Z’s behavioural intention to adopt CBDC in northern India, using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). The study specifically examined the roles of perceived trust, performance expectancy, and effort expectancy as mediators in the relationships between perceived security, social influence, and attitude. The data was collected from 258 Gen-Z digital payment users in the northern part of India with the help of a well-structured survey questionnaire, using convenience and snowball sampling techniques. In addition, the data analysis was conducted using statistical tools such as SmartPLS 4.0 and SPSS. The results show that despite a non-significant negative influence of effort expectancy on attitude, the overall positive influence of attitude on the behavioural intention to use CBDC was established. The theoretical implications emphasize the contribution of this study to FinTech adoption literature, particularly in the context of CBDC among Gen-Z. Moreover, the study recommends refining theoretical frameworks to accommodate the evolving financial landscape. This study also suggests tailored strategies for policymakers, financial institutions, and businesses to align with Gen-Z’s preferences, fostering CBDC acceptance. A few limitations, including the focus on a specific age group and potential selection bias, should be considered when interpreting the results.
Eagle Fertilizers: Paving the Route-to-Market Path
Authors: Awan Muhammad Luqman , Maalik Usama
Published: November 2024

In January 2021, Mehmood Arif, the Business Manager for Shadaab—a new product launched by Eagle Fertilizers in Pakistan—faced crucial decisions regarding the market strategy for this recently introduced product. Despite Eagle being the second-largest player in the Pakistani fertilizer market, Shadaab’s performance was underwhelming, contributing only 5% to the company’s top line. Pakistan’s fertilizer market predominantly comprises urea, a nitrogen-based product that overshadows the other two phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers categories. Shadaab, however, is a ‘blended’ fertilizer containing all three major nutrients—nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium—designed to enhance crop quality and yield. Although Shadaab had demonstrated proven efficacy and had been well-received by farmers, its sales were not meeting expectations. Farmers are critical stakeholders in building an agribusiness brand, but due to low levels of awareness, Field Advisory Services were essential for educating them and raising awareness. Eagle’s primary route-to-market for its existing line of ‘straight’ fertilizers relied on a non-exclusive distribution network involving traders and retailers. Ideally, a higher percentage of sales should come from retailers, given their smaller size and greater reach. However, the sales team was primarily focused on traders, who provided financial stability and required less effort from the sales team despite being fewer in number. This emphasis, along with a lack of consumer demand, was negatively impacting Shadaab’s performance. Looking ahead, Mehmood Arif had four options for Shadaab’s market strategy. The first was to maintain the status quo, continuing with the non-exclusive, traditional, hybrid channel that farmers were accustomed to. The other options were to focus exclusively on retailers or trader dealers. The final option was to develop a direct-to-consumer channel.
Rethinking the Drivers of Energy Intensity in India’s Iron and Steel Firms: The Role of Imported Intermediates
Authors: Tandon Anjali
Published: November 2024

The improvements in energy intensity of India’s iron and steel industry despite the limited research and development (R and D) expenditure, high cost of adapting technologies/fuel and heavy dependence on coal-based process is intriguing. In attempting to understand the underlying drivers, this article uses firm-level panel data to show that firms have improved their energy intensity through retrofitting of the existing production utilities and ‘brownfield’ installations in the form of technology extensions. The improvements are essentially on account of the use of imported capital goods/equipment rather than core R and D. For policy, this highlights critical dependence on imports of green goods in meeting the net-zero targets. The finding is used to call for technology transfers as part of brownfield installations and policy interventions to support the domestic capital goods industry for reducing the dependency on imports. On the sidelines, the results also show that international trade has a positive externality through supporting the environment.
Effects on personal and cultural wellbeing of attending free community outreach concerts given by a professional orchestra
Authors: Alsop Michael A. , Hambrick Marion E. , Heitz Hannah K. , Batley Prathiba
Published: November 2024

Despite hundreds of investigations into the benefits of arts engagement for health and wellbeing, much of what we know comes from research in clinical settings, and little is understood about the positive effects of attending live musical performances. As many professional orchestras have begun re-examining their purpose and mission statements, they also seek ways to measure their impact beyond ticket sales and donations in hopes of highlighting positive effects on concertgoers and their community. The purpose of this study was to explore the impacts of a free community outreach concert series provided by a professional orchestra on individual and community wellbeing in a large city in the United States. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews, paired interviews, and a focus group with 18 participants between the ages of 18 and 77 years. Abductive analysis allowed us to consider emerging themes and pre-existing theories of wellbeing concurrently. The results showed three primary areas of impact on concert attendees’ wellbeing: emotional, social, and cultural. Concert attendance fostered positive emotional states and reduced negative emotions, led to personal feelings of connection with the orchestra and across the community, and contributed to personal- and local-cultural wellbeing. In addition to reinforcing much of the prior scholarship on the effects on wellbeing of arts participation, particularly in the emotional and social domains, the results highlight new possible connections between community outreach programs and increased cultural wellbeing.
The Gordian Knot of Consciousness Meets the Sword of Darwinism
Authors: Sachs Carl B.
Published: November 2024

Veit criticizes autopoiesis as a competitor with the pathological complexity thesis as an explanation for the origins of consciousness. I argue that this characterization of autopoiesis conflates what I call “autopoiesis 1.0” and “autopoiesis 2.0.” Autopoiesis 1.0, as originally construed by Maturana and Varela, disregarded environmental explanations and focused on autopoiesis as a specific class of mechanisms. Autopoiesis 2.0 is heavily influenced by Hans Jonas and other thinkers in the tradition of Naturphilosophie. Despite the similarity in name, this is quite different from Veit’s contribution to philosophy of nature in the sense of Dennett, Godfrey-Smith, and Sterelny. Veit’s project has much to offer autopoietic enactivists but it is different kind of project. This difference is crucial for assessing how these projects can contribute to each other.
Deployed to the Hill: Military Experience and Legislative Behavior in Congress
Authors: Amoroso Joseph G.
Published: November 2024

Congress is more polarized than ever. At the same time, there are fewer military veterans serving in Congress than ever before. Candidates with military experience, along with their supporters, argue that electing more veterans could help reduce dysfunction and gridlock. They claim that military values, such as duty and teamwork, translate into differences in legislative behavior. But are veteran lawmakers more effective than those without military experience? Are they more bipartisan? Using House data from the 104th to 116th Congresses (1995–2021), I examine the extent to which military experience influences a lawmaker’s ability to legislate and engage in bipartisan behavior. I find that veteran lawmakers are more effective at advancing consequential legislation. Additionally, veterans appear more willing to collaborate with members of the opposite party, especially in recent Congresses. These effects are particularly evident among those who served on active duty. I conclude by considering the implications of these findings for maintaining healthy civil-military relations in America.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Colorectal Cancer Incidence Trends Across Regions of the United States From 2001 to 2020 – A United States Cancer Statistics Analysis
Authors: Pankratz Vernon Shane , Kanda Deborah , Kosich Mikaela , Edwardson Nicholas , English Kevin , Adsul Prajakta , Mishra Shiraz I.
Published: November 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence rates have been decreasing in the United States (US), but there is limited information about differences in these improvements among individuals from different racial and ethnic subgroups across different regions of the US.

Methods

Data from the National Program of Cancer Registries (NPCR) and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) databases were used to examine trends in CRC incidence from 2001 to 2020 using a population-based retrospective cohort study. We obtained annual estimates of CRC incidence and used meta-regression analyses via weighted linear models to identify main effects and interactions that explained differences in CRC incidence trends among groups defined by race/ethnicity and US region while also considering CRC stage and sex. To summarize overall trends over time in incidence rates for specific racial and ethnic groups within and across US regions, we obtained average annual percentage change (AAPC) estimates.

Results

The greatest differences in CRC incidence trends were among groups defined by race/ethnicity and US region. Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) persons had the largest declines in CRC incidence, with AAPC estimates ranging from −2.27 (95% CI: −2.49 to −2.06) in the South to −3.03 (95% CI: −3.59 to −2.47) in the West, but had higher-than-average incidence rates at study end. The AAPC estimate for American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) persons suggested no significant change over time (AAPC: −0.41, 95% CI: −2.51 to 1.73).

Conclusion

CRC incidence trends differ among racial/ethnic groups residing in different US regions. Notably, CRC incidence rates have not changed noticeably for AIAN persons from 2001-2020. These findings highlight the importance of reinvigorating collaborative efforts to develop geographic and population-specific screening and preventative approaches to reduce the CRC burden experienced by Native American communities and members of other minoritized groups.
Evaluation of the performance of low-fat (oil-fat) dressings based on chemically modified Guayabo plantain starch (Musa paradisiaca L.)
Authors: Moreno-Ríos Dayanna Alexandra , Lucas-Aguirre Juan Carlos , Pinzón-Fandiño Magda Ivonne , Henao-Ossa Johan Sebastián
Published: November 2024

Guayabo plantain (GP) starch was chemically modified by acetylation to evaluate its role as a stabilizer and emulsifier in low-fat dressings. Native starch (NS) from GP was chemically modified starch (MS), and its functional properties, such as water absorption index, water solubility index, swelling power, gelatinization temperature ( Tg), were evaluated. Additionally, functional groups and morphology were identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy. Low-fat dressings were prepared using NS and MS at two concentrations, 2% and 3% (NS2, NS3, MS2, MS3), and the stability of the dressings was evaluated over a storage period of 28 days at 4 °C ± 2.0 °C. The percentage of acetylation and the degree of substitution obtained were 2.48% and 0.01, respectively, complying with current regulations. MS showed a higher amylose content (23.62 ± 1.89%) than NS (16.01 ± 0.43%). The Tg of MS decreased, and the appearance of bands at 1012 and 1723 cm−1 in the FT-IR spectra suggested a modification in the functional characteristics of starch due to acetylation. Emulsions of MS at 2% and 3% (MS2 and MS3) showed a smaller droplet size and higher interfacial dispersion. However, MS3 had higher viscosity, which contributed to an increase in hydrophobicity and delays in flocculation and subsequent coalescence. This research study provides useful information on the use of 3% MS dressings in new food formulations, reducing fat content while preserving functional characteristics, thus ensuring greater stability.
Public Spending and Inclusive Growth in Developing Asia
Authors: Clements Benedict , Gupta Sanjeev , Jalles João Tovar
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the impact of government spending on inclusive growth in developing Asia, focusing on fiscal redistribution through education, health, and social benefits. Using panel data from 16 countries over the period 1970–2017, we apply a fixed-effects logistic regression model to assess the likelihood of inclusive growth episodes. Our findings indicate that fiscal redistribution, particularly through targeted health and education spending, significantly enhances the chances of achieving inclusive growth. The results also suggest that redistributive spending helps reduce income inequality, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are more widely shared. We further explore the practical implications of these findings through case studies of China, India, and Vietnam, demonstrating how effective government spending can foster inclusive growth. The paper highlights the importance of well-targeted fiscal policies to support sustainable and equitable development in the post-COVID recovery.
Multiwavelength photobiomodulation in atrophic age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Beretta Federico , Zucchiatti Ilaria , Sacconi Riccardo , Bandello Francesco , Querques Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To evaluate photobiomodulation (PBM) safety and efficacy in patient with atrophic AMD and to explore tissue effects using Spectrally Resolved Autofluorescence (SrAF) to identify a potential biomarker indicative of mitochondrial activity, the primary PBM target.

Methods

This retrospective, non-comparative case series involved six eyes of five patients with atrophic AMD, conducted at the Medical Retina and Imaging Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, Italy. At baseline and follow-ups (after one and three months) a complete ophthalmological assessment and multimodal imaging, including spectrally resolved autofluorescence (SrAF), were performed. PBM treatment (Valeda Light Delivery System - LumiThera) was administered in nine sessions over three weeks. The SrAF images were analyzed to evaluate the effect of the treatment.

Results

Six eyes of five patients with atrophic AMD received PBM at baseline. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), mean central macular thickness (CMT), mean retinal sensitivity on microperimetry and the atrophic area have remained stable. No eyes developed foveal atrophy after the treatment. The image analysis in SrAF showed an increase in the highlighted area of 4.89% after one month and 17.11% after three months. No adverse systemic or local side effects were reported.

Conclusion

PBM is a safe treatment for the human retina. The evaluation of the retinal area within the green light spectrum (575 nm) in SrAF is a potential indirect biomarker of mitochondrial activity and could be used to assess treatment efficacy in clinical studies.
Beowulf Opera Scenes: Classroom music pedagogy and knowledge when composing an opera with primary-school children
Authors: Axtell Ian James , Anderson Anthony , MacGregor Elizabeth , Nenadic Emma , Fautley Martin , Evans Nancy
Published: November 2024

Composing with children is a complex area that many generalist primary-school teachers in England report finding challenging or intimidating. This article draws on existing literature relating to composing in schools, child-centered learning, cultural capital, and classroom pedagogy to situate and discuss a longitudinal research project exploring composing with primary-aged children. The article focuses on one of eight schools involved in the project, in which children worked with a professional composer alongside their regular classroom teacher to compose operatic scenes to accompany the epic poem, Beowulf. The project utilized a collaborative action research framework, featuring researcher observations of the six composing sessions, semi-structured interviews and reflections with the teacher and composer, and a focus group with the children. The findings highlight seven themes relating to children’s understandings of the composing process, which are theorized into conceptualizations of musical knowledge. The article concludes by tracing some of the international implications for children composing in primary-school contexts.
On buckling of compact I-section beams subjected to biaxial bending
Authors: Henriques David , Gonçalves Rodrigo
Published: November 2024

This paper aims at providing a new insight into the lateral-torsional buckling behavior of compact I-section steel beams subjected to biaxial bending, without axial force, a subject seldom treated in the literature. This investigation is based on both analytical and numerical results, the latter obtained using a two-node geometrically exact beam finite element developed by one of the authors (Gonçalves, 2019), which has all the required features. Several geometrically non-linear analysis (GNA) types are used to characterize the buckling behavior, namely with geometric imperfections (GNIA), with material non-linearity (GMNA) and combining material non-linearity and imperfections (GMNIA). Different boundary conditions along the two principal planes are allowed and particular attention is paid to cases which involve the same first-order bending moment diagrams but different support schemes. As a consequence, it is shown that the buckling behavior depends not only on the slenderness and the first-order moment diagrams, but also on the supports. On the basis of results obtained concerning the application of the Eurocode 3 provisions for different support conditions, it is shown that unsafe results can be obtained but may be resolved using the recommendations presented in the paper.
Educational inequalities in mental health expectancy. Analysis based on registry data and survey data from the Danish National Health Survey
Authors: Kjeldsen Oliver Ryborg , Davidsen Michael , Brønnum-Hansen Henrik
Published: November 2024

Objective:

Social inequality in life expectancy (LE) and various indicators of health expectancy have received much attention. Mental health expectancy (MHE) has received less attention, although research has shown an increasing prevalence of poor mental health. We aimed to investigate educational differentials in LE in relation to good, moderate, and poor mental health.

Methods:

Nationwide registry data on education and mortality were linked and combined with data from the Danish National Health Survey for 2017 and 2021 on mental health and education. The sample group consisted of data on Danes aged 30 and over. MHE was estimated by Sullivan’s method.

Results:

From 2017 to 2021, a general decline in the MHE of Danes was observed. Furthermore, the educational inequality in MHE remained substantial between genders, and was larger than the inequality in LE. Changes in MHE differed across educational groups. For Danes with short education, good MHE tended to increase for men, while the increase was statistically significant among women.

Conclusions:

MHE is associated with educational attainment. Despite the observed changes in educational differential, substantial inequality persists, raising important questions about the underlying causes of social disparity in MHE.
Developing a numerical modelling strategy for metallic pin pressing processes in fibre reinforced thermoplastics to investigate fibre rearrangement mechanisms during joining
Authors: Gröger B. , Gerritzen J. , Hornig A. , Gude M.
Published: November 2024

A numerical modelling strategy for the direct pin pressing process of metallic pins into continuous fibre-reinforced thermoplastic organosheets is developed. The joining process is performed above the thermoplast’s melting temperature, altering the initial material structure of the composite by fibre rearrangement, which in turn influences the load-bearing capacity of the joint. Therefore, the modelling strategy aims at predicting the resultant material structure after pin pressing. The modelling approach considers both the textile architecture and the process parameters (temperature, tool velocity). A sub-meso modelling framework for the fibres based on a multi-filament approach is used. The interaction between fibres and the thermoplastic melt, as well as the matrix flow, is modelled using the Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian method. This allows for the prediction of matrix-rich zones and fibre rearrangement around the pin. The promising results show a good agreement of the resultant material structure in terms of compaction and fibre volume content around the pressed pin. Characteristic parameters show an underestimation of the laminate thickness below the pin. Moreover, an evaluation method for evaluating the orientation changes of the virtual multi-filaments is developed and presented to observe and assess fibre rearrangement and fibre volume content in detail during the numerical process simulation. It can be seen that only fibres around the pin are displaced and not in the whole molten area. Furthermore, it can be observed in detail that the initial position of the fibres in relation to the pin determines whether the fibres are displaced in the in-plane or out-of-plane direction.
Du Bois and the wounds of the First World War
Authors: Williams Chad
Published: November 2024

W. E. B. Du Bois occupies a singular place in classical sociology as the most prolific African American scholar of his times. This article demonstrates the profound impact the First World War had on Du Bois’s life, intellectual work and political evolution. While viewing the roots of the war through the lens of the global color-line and Europe’s imperial exploitation of Africa, he nevertheless believed it represented a possibility for the expansion of democracy for people of African descent and African Americans in particular. In the aftermath of the war, Du Bois attempted to reckon with its historical and sociological meaning by writing a book, which he ultimately never completed. Du Bois’s failure to finish what would have been one of his most important works represented the failure of the war itself and his inability to effectively marshal the tools of social science to make sense of the conflict, personally, and intellectually. The war ultimately shaped the trajectory of Du Bois’s scholarship and political radicalism in ways unlike any other sociologist in the 20th century.
Gramsci’s dissidence beneath and beyond the First World War
Authors: Amini Babak
Published: November 2024

One of the leading Marxist theorists of the 20th century and a founding member and leader of the Italian Communist Party, Antonio Gramsci began his intellectual and political journey essentially at the outbreak of WWI and left a massive body of journalistic work by the end of the war. Despite their scope and significance, his wartime writings remain understudied relative to the Prison Notebooks and other post-wartime writings, particularly in the English language literature. This article outlines some of the central themes that he explored in this period. It provides a synoptic depiction of Gramsci’s conceptual development over the course of the war. Gramsci’s dissident social theory represents a radically different intellectual reaction to the war than we see from prominent conservative and liberal social theorists. What emerges from the picture presented in this article is a conceptual snapshot whose organizing principle centers on a critical understanding of intransigence that Gramsci developed over the course of the war. The notion of intransigence, which for Gramsci went far beyond organizational and strategic struggles and expanded into cultural and philosophical endeavors, helps make sense of the major contours of his wartime activities. In carving out a space for critical engagement during the war, Gramsci developed a critique of liberalism and a commitment to socialism which were both marked by and linked through his critical understanding of intransigence.
The Failure to Regulate Airbnb
Authors: Warren Sarah
Published: November 2024

The rapid global explosion in short-term rentals has left cities, armed only with policies related to hotels and permanent housing, scrambling. An analysis of Airbnb’s data-hoarding practices help identify the mechanisms underlying more and less effective regulatory responses in two American cities.
Public Pinball
Authors: Banfi Ryan
Published: November 2024

Ryan Banfi on the enduring appeals of the humble pinball machine.
Considering Small-City Gentrification
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Kimelberg Shelley M. , Adelman Robert M.
Published: November 2024

Zhe Zhang, Shelley M. Kimelberg, and Robert M. Adelman on underexamined urban change.
Everyday Status Really does Matter
Authors: Ridgeway Cecilia L.
Published: November 2024

Cecilia L. Ridgeway on identity, status, and social inequalities.
How can a Realist Evaluation Adhere to the Indigenous Research Principles? An Evaluation Protocol of a Health Research Capacity Strengthening Programme
Authors: Mutua Meshack Nzesei , Nakidde Catherine
Published: November 2024

Background: There is increasing demand for culturally responsive and contextually appropriate evaluation tools that can promote transformative change in the African development space. One way to address this demand is by adapting the existing Western-based evaluation theories to ensure that they are sensitive to the African settings. This protocol describes how the realist evaluation, which is a Western-based approach, would be implemented in a manner that respects the indigenous research principles. The study would be positioned within the African Research Initiative for Scientific Excellence (ARISE) programme – a research capacity strengthening initiative. Methods and Analysis: A multiple case study design will be used, specifically targeting three purposively selected research projects. Initial programme theories (IPTs) will be elicited through review of the ARISE programme documents, focus group discussions with project level stakeholders and beneficiaries and review of published literature. Qualitative methods will then be applied to test the IPTs. Interviews with the Principal Investigators (PIs), research collaborators, PIs’ mentors, finance and grants management (research support) staff and partners; (b) participant observation with the PIs and (c) storytelling sessions with the masters/PhD trainees. Retroductive theorising will be applied in data analysis. Deductive reasoning will seek to identify Contexts, Mechanism and Outcomes (CMOs) that are aligned with the IPTs. New CMOs will be inductively identified. The indigenous principles will be infused in different stages of the evaluation. Conclusion: This study will be the first of its kind to explore how the realist evaluation approach can be indigenised in an African setting. Tensions and incompatibilities between the realist evaluation approach and the indigenous research principles will be reported as part of the study results. An ‘indigenous-inspired realist evaluation’ framework will be suggested based on the reflections on the evaluation methods and processes which could be tested and refined by researchers in Africa.
Characterizing machine tool spatial stiffness and predicting accuracy
Authors: Gao Xianming , Lu Shaohui , Zhang Yanlong , Li Yuhan
Published: November 2024

As a typical precision machine, the machine tool has complex structure and changeable working conditions, which leads to huge calculation data and low analysis efficiency when using traditional finite element method to obtain stiffness information. General test methods often have discrete values and cannot obtain stiffness information comprehensively and systematically. In this paper, a method for characterizing the stiffness of machine tool processing space based on multi-body system topology is proposed. Based on the matrix condensation theory, a method for constructing the equivalent condensation model of the stiffness of machine tool components is proposed. The stiffness characterization model of the components is established by using the stiffness equivalent condensation method. Based on the multi-body system theory, the stiffness distribution model of machine tool machining space is established, which can quickly and intuitively characterize the machining stiffness information of machine tool. Finally, based on the stiffness distribution model of the machining space of the machine tool, the machining accuracy of the S-shaped test specimen is predicted. Combined with the experimental analysis, the measurement results are consistent with the prediction results. The accuracy, feasibility, and effectiveness of the stiffness distribution model of machine tool machining space are verified.
Nonlinear dynamic of flexible rotor supported by turbulent bearings with quadratic damping and temperature dependent viscosity
Authors: Chang-Jian Cai-Wan , Chu Li-Ming , Chen Tsung-Chia
Published: November 2024

A nonlinear dynamic model of a rotor supported by the turbulent journal bearing with quadratic damping under nonlinear suspension is presented in this study, and the lubricating oil is assumed to be temperature-dependent. The bifurcation diagrams, dynamic trajectories, power spectra, Poincaré map, Lyapunov exponent, and fractal dimension are used to verify the dynamic characteristics of the rotor-bearing system, and abundant subharmonic, and even chaotic motions are found. Temperature is one of the key parameters affecting the dynamic responses of the system, and the dynamic responses will perform non-periodic or even chaotic motions with higher working temperatures of lubricant fluid, as proved in this study. Nonlinear dynamic simulation analysis results will help engineers avoid unnecessary trial and error when designing and applying rotating machinery systems.
Opportunities and challenges associated with the launch of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) in British Columbia during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study to explore community pharmacists’ perspectives
Authors: Dahri Karen , Sinclair (formerly MacNeil) Kimberley , Piszczek Jolanta , Wilbur Kerry , Wong Bryce , Kuo I Fan , Marra Fawziah
Published: November 2024

Background:

In February 2022, a novel antiviral for the treatment of COVID-19, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid), was approved by Health Canada and made available to patients in British Columbia (BC). BC community pharmacists did not prescribe nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, but dispensing involved a detailed assessment with close attention to drug-drug interactions and patient monitoring. As the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir service was unique in BC, and not all pharmacists participated in the program, it is important to evaluate the perspectives of all the pharmacists who were affected so that lessons learned from the program can inform future pandemic planning and government initiatives.

Methods:

A qualitative research study using key informant semistructured interviews was conducted. Community pharmacists with varying degrees of experience with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir were recruited using multiple methods of recruitment through e-mail and fax invitations and social media posts. Open-ended questions explored pharmacists’ experiences with the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir program, including barriers and facilitators to dispensing it, and recommendations for future pharmacy initiatives.

Results:

Forty-three community pharmacists participated in the study. Most participants were between the ages of 30 and 39 years and had practiced for less than 10 years. Thematic analysis yielded 36 codes that were organized into 3 overarching themes related to the following: learning; in-process experiences, supports, difficulties; and perceptions about the expanded scope of practice.

Discussion:

The following strategies may be helpful to consider including in future initiatives: preprinted forms, a hotline for peer support, slower rollouts, a single source for communicating changes, a patient portal, addressing the divisions between dispensary and clinical work, and having specialized positions to support future rollouts.

Conclusion:

Lessons learned from the nirmatrelvir/ritonavir service included a slower approach to program initiation with additional training opportunities and more streamlined prescription options. Pharmacists also wished for better communication support and involvement in the planning of future initiatives.
The ‘Skills Gap’ in the Animation/VFX Industry in Scotland
Authors: Mortimer Jonathan , Richards Kendall , Pilcher Nick
Published: November 2024

Integral to the animation and visual effects (VFX) industry are graduates with industry focused skills. Yet, the industry is rapid and ever changing, almost defying attempts to define it. How then should animation/VFX, and indeed any subject of a similar nature, be taught to best prepare industry-ready graduates? This article describes Animation/VFX industry perceptions ( N = 18) of current Animation teaching in further and higher education. Findings show that a large ‘gap’ in the ‘skills’ required exists, but with multitudinous perceptions and understandings of what this ‘skills gap’ is. The authors suggest approaches to plug this gap through attributes and aptitudes that could be developed in students, lecturers and industry opportunities for students. Further, they outline how closer industry and education sector collaboration may be achieved. However, they stress that, without government policy initiatives and investment, the prospects for the sector, and by extension for those in a similar situation, appear bleak.
Football referees issue more yellow cards following VAR interventions – mental, tactical, and performance considerations
Authors: Samuel Roy David , Galily Yair , Englert Chris , Basevitch Itay
Published: November 2024

VAR (video assistant referee) presents a human-technology interface that was designed to improve referees’ ability to make accurate decisions in key match incidents. VAR interventions are pivotal moments in football matches, challenging referees’ critical decisions and potentially affecting their perceived ability to manage the game. This study aimed to investigate how referees handle VAR interventions in terms of game management and control. Through statistical analyses, we examined 120 real-match VAR interventions in penalty incidents from the Israeli Premier League, focusing on the number of fouls and yellow cards before and after the VAR interventions. Our findings revealed a significant impact ( d = 0.40) on yellow cards but not on fouls. Remarkably, referees issued twice the number of yellow cards (normalized per playing minute) following a VAR intervention, irrespective of the time it occurred during the match (i.e., first or second half). These results are discussed within the framework of current research and theories concerning self-control and game management in football refereeing. The increased issuance of yellow cards following VAR interventions suggests that teams may be at a higher risk of receiving disciplinary actions, which can potentially impact their performance and increase the likelihood of losing matches. Consequently, we provide practical recommendations for referee training and match preparation as well as for teams.