bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental and Biological Factors of Relevance to Shellfish Production in Northern Ireland: Insights From 20 Years of Regional Monitoring Data
Authors: Senovilla‐Herrero Diana , Chen Yuwei , Liu Chaoran , Suresh Subbulakshmi , Moore Heather , McKinney April ,   Matt Service, Helyar Sarah , Mbadugha Lenka , Campbell Katrina
Published: December 2024

A historical analysis was conducted to evaluate monitoring data in the coastal and estuarine waters of Northern Ireland over the 20‐year period between 2001 and 2022 to identify current and emerging concerns and gaps in analysis relative to the sustainability of the aquaculture industry. The effects of biological factors such as the presence of harmful algal bloom phytoplankton and marine biotoxins, and environmental factors such as chemical contamination and the water quality on shellfish production were analysed. The influence of key meteorological factors, such as sea temperature, rainfall and sunshine hours, on the levels of environmental factors was also examined. The evaluation included a socio–economic perspective, exploring the impact of the shellfish industry on the Northern Irish economy and the surrounding communities. The article examined the challenges faced by shellfish producers in terms of regulatory compliance and market access, and provides suggestions for comprehensive environmental monitoring strategies, in particular improved sampling plans to be employed to address these challenges. Overall, the compilation analysis discovered that while the shellfish industry in Northern Ireland faces a number of challenges, it remains a valuable source of local employment and income, and has the potential for growth in the coming years. The findings presented will be of interest to researchers and policymakers in the aquaculture industry, and presents a valuable historical contribution on the evaluation of chemical and microbiological contaminants affecting shellfish production that may be useful for other production areas.
Monopoles and Landau–Ginzburg models III: A gluing theorem
Authors: Wang Donghao
Published: December 2024

This is the third paper of this series. In Wang [Monopoles and Landau‐Ginzburg models II: Floer homology. arXiv:2005.04333, 2020], we defined the monopole Floer homology for any pair , where is a compact oriented 3‐manifold with toroidal boundary and is a suitable closed 2‐form viewed as a decoration. In this paper, we establish a gluing theorem for this Floer homology when two such 3‐manifolds are glued suitably along their common boundary, assuming that is disconnected, and is small and yet non‐vanishing on . As applications, we construct a monopole Floer 2‐functor and the generalized cobordism maps. Using results of Kronheimer–Mrowka and Ni, it is shown that for any such 3‐manifold that is irreducible, this Floer homology detects the Thurston norm on and the fiberness of . Finally, we show that our construction recovers the monopole link Floer homology for any link inside a closed 3‐manifold.
Role of air sinuses in sound reception of the Yangtze finless porpoise: A numerical study
Authors: Ou Wenzhan , Song Zhongchang , Ye Xin , Zhang Chuang , Wang Ding , Wang Kexiong , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2024

Although air sinuses are prevalent in odontocetes and are an integral component of their sound reception system, the acoustic function of these air-filled structures remains largely unknown. To address this, we developed a numerical model using computed tomography data from a Yangtze finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis asiaeorientalis) to investigate the role of the air sinuses in sound reception. By comparing sound reception characteristics between model cases with and without the air sinuses, we found that the air sinuses improved sound reception directivity. Across frequencies from 1 to 100 kHz, the directivity indexes for cases with and without the air sinuses ranged from 0.35 to 5.64 dB and 0.23 to 4.12 dB, respectively. Additionally, the air sinuses increased amplitude differences in received sounds, with maximum values of 2.05, 2.78, and −2.38 dB for the front-to-behind, ipsilateral-to-contralateral, and top-to-bottom aspects, respectively. These results indicate that the air sinuses effectively provided acoustic isolation for the bony ear complexes from the behind, contralateral, and top aspects, thereby enhancing asymmetric sound reception dominated by the front, ipsilateral, and bottom aspects. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of odontocete sound reception and sheds light on the significant role of the air sinuses in this context.
Extreme twin densities in calcite—A shock indicator
Authors: Poelchau Michael H. , Winkler Rebecca , Kenkmann Thomas , Wirth Richard , Luther Robert , Schäfer Frank
Published: December 2024

In abrupt and extreme loading events, such as meteorite impact or explosions, minerals undergo unique crystallographic changes known as shock metamorphism. The discovery of terrestrial impact craters relies on the unequivocal documentation of such shock effects. While shock effects for most of the rock-forming silicates have been intensely studied and calibrated experimentally against shock pressure, unambiguous shock effects for calcite, one of the most abundant minerals in Earth’s upper continental crust, are rare. Here, we examined the potential of high twin densities as a shock effect in calcite. We found that in marble shocked experimentally to shear stresses of 1.4 GPa and peak pressures of 3.9 GPa, the calcite twin density can exceed values of 1000 twins/mm. The average width of twins is below the wavelength of visible light, and thus the optical properties of shocked calcite are uniquely affected. We show that calcite twin piezometry can be applied to evaluate shock deformation in calcite. A numerical modeling approach indicates calcite is capable of sustaining shear stresses of ∼1.4 GPa under highly dynamic loading conditions. The application of the new shock criteria may enable the confirmation of meteorite impact craters formed in limestone or marble targets, and potentially improve the shock classification of calcite-bearing meteorites.
Correlation of classic history, imaging and pathology with novel genetics in Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome
Authors: Haynes Zachary , Nathan Steven D , Aryal Shambhu , Nyquist Alan
Published: December 2024

A spontaneous pneumothorax may be the heralding manifestation of diffuse cystic lung disease (DCLD). Historically, these diagnoses were differentiated by unique clinical, radiographic and tissue pathology characteristics. With recent advancements in genomics, several forms of DCLD can now be diagnosed through genetic testing and patients can thereby avoid undergoing an invasive lung biopsy. We present a case of a young patient with recurrent spontaneous pneumothoraces associated with a rare DCLD, Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome, that exemplifies the manifestations of this disease through classic history, imaging and pathology, along with the diagnostic utility of novel genotypic technology in the modern era.
Exploring cultural imaginaries of robots with children with brittle bone disease: a participatory design study
Authors: Stimson Christina E
Published: December 2024

A symbiotic relationship exists between narrative imaginaries of and real-life advancements in technology. Such cultural imaginings have a powerful influence on our understanding of the potential that technology has to affect our lives; as a result, narrative-based approaches toparticipatory design(PD) of technology are an active area of investigation.

In this ongoing study, the following research questions are addressed: how can PD be optimised for the fields of robotics and assistive technology, particularly with regard to fostering empowerment and eliciting how people imagine the role of technology in their own futures? How can the symbiotic relationship between (popular) cultural imaginaries and real-life technological advancements be acknowledged within the PD process?

The study synthesises fictional inquiry and science fiction prototyping methodologies and processes over multiple workshops. Its aim is to explore and develop conceptions of robotics and assistive technology of children withosteogenesis imperfecta(OI, commonly known as brittle bone disease) and their families, as these populations are under-represented in collaborative research and stand to benefit from future robotics development. Narrative-based approaches are complemented by participants’ direct interaction with contemporary robots during each workshop and a ‘robot home visit’ to unite experiential understandings of robots and their current capabilities with possible futures, as well as foster mutual learning between stakeholders and designers. The study deploys a mixed methods research design with a critical posthumanist theoretical lens.

This inclusive co-designed methodology should establish a rich, nuanced picture of how people currently imagine robots in their future and facilitate all involved to deepen these conceptions. It is anticipated that everyone taking part will empower themselves to imagine fully the range of possibilities in their own personal futures in our increasingly technologised world.
Towards a critical posthumanist perspective on participatory design
Authors: Prescott Tony , Robillard Julie M , Murray Stuart
Published: December 2024

Participatory design places a strong emphasis on human agency, user perspectives and democratic ideals of inclusivity and empowerment, and is therefore often associated with humanist principles and values. In contrast, critical posthumanism questions key humanist assumptions about the centred and singular nature of the ‘human condition’. Instead, posthumanism points to the evolving and diverse lived experiences of people and how these are transformed by (and are transforming of) culture, environment and technology. In this commentary, we explore how participatory design could benefit from a posthumanist perspective that more explicitly acknowledges the entangled and interconnected nature of our technologised lives.
Children’s hospitals in the British NHS: commercial and international considerations
Authors: Lunt Neil , Exworthy Mark
Published: December 2024

Patient mobility is a complex phenomenon, involving both outward and inward flows, and treatments that are more and less complex and where choice may be driven by quality and availability rather than solely cost. Public health systems in high-income and middle-income countries are facing increasing financial pressures given population ageing, a rapid rise in chronic and non-communicable diseases and fiscal restraint. In this context, the intersection of patient mobility and commodification of care provides opportunities for generating additional revenue, particularly for hospitals with a reputation for clinical excellence and innovation. The National Health Service (NHS) is often seen as an iconic public service in the UK, with primarily state funding and state provision of services. Over the past few decades, however, successive governments have introduced more market-style relations and commercialism into the NHS under new public management and more recently, public sector entrepreneurialism. Whereas historically there has been ambivalence around private activity, international patients and joint ventures are identified as a possible route to lessening pressure on NHS resources. Specialist NHS hospitals treat inward medical travellers with complex tertiary procedures (including paediatrics and heart surgery), maternity services and ophthalmic surgery. In this paper, we present documentary research on the case study of Great Ormond Street Hospital, a specialist NHS children’s hospital in London which has a tradition of treating patients travelling from outside the UK. We review the practices around commercialisation in relation to children’s services to offer a novel analysis on specialist children’s services. In so doing, we expand academic and policy debates around commercialisation in public health systems and provide theoretical insights, drawing on Karl Polanyi’s ‘double movement’ to help explain the apparent paradox whereby commercial income is increasingly justified by NHS organisations due to an apparent need to support NHS services.
Nonequilibrium Casimir pressure for two graphene-coated plates: Quantum field theoretical approach
Authors: Klimchitskaya G. L. , Korikov C. C. , Mostepanenko V. M.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we consider the nonequilibrium Casimir pressure in the system of two parallel graphene-coated plates one of which is either warmer or cooler than the environment. The electromagnetic response of graphene coating characterized by the nonzero energy gap and chemical potential is described in the framework of the Dirac model by means of the polarization tensor. It is shown that the magnitude of the nonequilibrium Casimir pressure on a warmer plate than the environment is larger and on a cooler plate it is smaller than the magnitude of the standard Casimir pressure in the state of thermal equilibrium. According to our results, the spatially local theory underestimates the role of the effects of nonequilibrium. This underestimation increases for a smaller chemical potential of the graphene coating and at lower temperatures of the cooled plate. Possible applications of the obtained results are indicated.
A learnable activation function based on orthogonal Legendre wavelets
Authors: Yan Ye , Zhi Liu
Published: December 2024

Activation functions play a crucial role in introducing nonlinearity into neural networks. Previous approaches, such as rectifying neurons and logistic sigmoid neurons, primarily focused on constructing activation functions based on biological models. These methods have achieved considerable success in various machine learning tasks. However, they are inadequate in addressing two critical issues: Gradient Vanishing and Dead ReLU. This research demonstrates that employing Legendre orthogonal wavelets can effectively alleviate these issues and yield comparable or superior performance compared to rectifying neurons. In this study, the input features prior to the activation layer are normalized to the range [0,1]. Each mini-interval within this range is then mapped using a set of orthogonal Legendre wavelets. Subsequently, the activation function produces a weighted sum of all the mini-intervals. By modifying typical models used in image classification, this paper found that incorporating Legendre wavelets resulted in significant improvements in network accuracy. With minor adjustments in the hidden layers, ResNet50 achieved an increase of +5.17% in accuracy for CIFAR10 classification. Similarly, in CIFAR100 classification, the use of Legendre wavelets in Swin Transformers led to a +3.51% boost in accuracy.
Self-Triggered Formation Control of an Asynchronous Multiple Underwater Unmanned Vehicle Under Communication Delay
Authors: Yan Zheping , Yan Jinyu
Published: December 2024

To address the problem of multiple underwater unmanned vehicle (UUV) formation tracking under bounded communication delay, considering the existence of model parameter perturbations of UUVs as well as external ocean current disturbances, a distributed robust model predictive controller (DRMPC) with a dual closed-loop control structure and self-triggering mechanism is proposed. Among them, the outer-loop controller transforms the target trajectory into the target speed required by the inner-loop controller, and the inner-loop controller solves the effects of model parameter perturbations and bounded disturbances by RMPC and a finite-time extended state observer (FESO). To reduce the communication load of the system, a self-triggering mechanism is designed to determine the next triggering moment while solving the outer-loop optimization problem. The feasibility and stability of this controller are analyzed via mathematical induction and the ISpS Lyapunov theory. Finally, the effectiveness of this formation controller is validated through simulation experiments with multi-UUV.
Impact of Antithrombotic Drug Continuation on Postoperative Outcomes in Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Randomised, Open-Label, Parallel Group Trial
Authors: TSUCHIHASHI Akinobu , NATSUME Tadahiro , YAMAMOTO Michiro
Published: December 2024

Background: To investigate the impact of antithrombotic drug continuation or interruption on postoperative outcomes in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) who undergo endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR).

Methods: This prospective, randomised, open-label, parallel group trial was conducted between December 2016 and October 2022 of CTS patients on antithrombotic medications who underwent ECTR. The 65 participants were randomly assigned to either maintain antithrombotic therapy (continuation group, 34 patients) or suspend it (interruption group, 31 patients). The primary outcome was a version of the CTS Instrument developed by the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Hand (CTSI-JSSH). Secondary outcomes were the Semmes–Weinstein Monofilament Test (SW), swelling (determined by measuring the circumferences of the middle finger, wrist and hand), visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, VAS for swelling evaluated independently by patients and doctors and complications. CTSI-JSSH was administered before surgery and 3 months after. SW was conducted before surgery and at 1 and 3 months after. Swelling was objectively measured before surgery and at 2 weeks and 1 month after. Both pain and swelling VAS scores were recorded at 2 weeks and 1 month postoperatively. Complications were evaluated up to 3 months postoperatively.

Results: Results on the symptom severity scale (SSS) of the CTSI-JSSH were significantly better in the interruption group at 3 months after surgery. VAS swelling assessed by both patients and doctors was significantly lower in the interruption group. There were no complications in either group.

Conclusions: The interruption group had better outcomes on the SSS and postoperative subjective swelling, with no cardiovascular events. For patients taking antithrombosis medication, short-term ECTR outcomes improve when its use is temporarily suspended.

Level of Evidence: Level II (Therapeutic)
Viscosol Treatment Ameliorates Insulin‐Mediated Regulation of Dyslipidemia, Hepatic Steatosis, and Lipid Metabolism by Targeting PTP1B in Type‐2 Diabetic Mice Model
Authors: Raza Idrees , Sohail Aamir , Muneer Hamza , Fayyaz Hajra , Uddin Zia , Almars Amany I. , Aggad Waheeb S. , Almohaimeed Hailah M. , Ullah Imran
Published: December 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a metabolic disorder, has the hallmarks of persistent hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) was found to be overexpressed in many tissues in the case of T2DM and involved in the negative regulation of insulin signaling. So, PTP1B inhibition can act as a therapeutic target for T2DM. Numerous studies claimed the anti‐inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic activities of Dodonaea viscosa. Previously, we generated the high‐fat diet (HFD)‐low dose streptozotocin (STZ)–induced diabetic male mice model and treated it with a PTP1B inhibitor (5, 7‐dihydroxy‐3, 6‐dimethoxy‐2‐ (4‐methoxy‐3‐ (3‐methyl‐2‐enyl) phenyl)‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one), isolated from Dodonaea viscosa. In the current study, we aimed to investigate the De novo lipogenesis, adipocyte differentiation, augmentation of lipoproteins clearance, fatty acid uptake, antilipolysis activity, and hepatic steatosis of PTP1B inhibition in adipose and liver tissues of the HFD‐STZ–induced diabetic mice model. We found the retrieval of normal morphology of adipocytes and hepatocytes in the compound‐treated group. The biochemical parameters showed the gradual reduction of LDL, VLDL, TC, and TG in the serum of the compound‐treated group. To further test our hypothesis, real‐time PCR was performed, and data revealed the reduction of PTP1B and other inflammatory markers in both tissues, showing enhanced expression of insulin signaling markers (INSR, IRS1, IRS2, and PI3K). Our compound upregulated the adipogenic (PPARγ), lipogenic (SREBP1c, FAS, ACC, and DGAT2), lipoprotein clearance (LPL, LDLR, and VLDLR), fatty acid uptake (CD36 and FATP1), and lipid droplet forming (FSP27 and perilipin‐1) markers expressions in adipocytes and downregulated in hepatocytes. Furthermore, we found elevated cholesterol efflux (in adipose and liver) and decreased lipolysis in adipocytes and elevated in hepatocytes. Hence, we can conclude that our compound protects the adipocytes from abrupt lipolysis and stimulates adipocyte differentiation. In addition, it plays a hepatic protective role by shifting clearance and uptake of lipoproteins and fatty acids to the peripheral tissues and retrieving the fatty liver condition.
Role of Antioxidative Peptide Gly‐Met Derived From Goat Milk Dadih Toward Antiaging Effects Through the SKN‐1/Nrf2 Pathway in C. elegans
Authors: Zain Wieda Nurwidada Haritsah , Yokoyama Issei , Mirdhayati Irdha , Komiya Yusuke , Nagasao Jun , Arihara Keizo
Published: December 2024

Fermented dairy products have been studied for their physiological functions, particularly their antioxidant properties. Dadih is a traditional Indonesian fermented dairy product produced from buffalo milk and prepared in bamboo tubes that exhibit functional properties. Compared to cow milk, goat milk has gained more attention for dadih production due to its low allergen count and ease of digestion. In our previous study, we identified the dipeptide glycine‐methionine (Gly‐Met) generated from goat milk dadih as a novel antioxidant peptide. This study aimed to investigate the antiaging effects of Gly‐Met in Caenorhabditis elegans using an in vivo model. Initially, the effective concentration (EC50) was determined and Gly‐Met exhibited an effective antioxidant activity value of 0.96 mg/mL. Our results demonstrated that Gly‐Met significantly extended the mean lifespan, enhanced resistance to oxidative stress, and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in C. elegans. Furthermore, the mRNA expression of Nsy-1, Sek-1, and Pmk-1 that are the target genes of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway was upregulated in C. elegans. Subsequently, Skn-1 and Gcs-1 expression levels were significantly upregulated. Activation of SKN‐1 target genes may be modulated by the p38 MAPK signaling pathway. Our study revealed that Gly‐Met, an antioxidative peptide identified in goat milk dadih, may contribute to antiaging effects through the SKN‐1/Nrf2 signaling pathway in C. elegans.
A Spaceborne Ka‐Band Earth‐Coverage Phased Array Antenna Based on DBF‐Shared Subarray for LEO Communications
Authors: Cai Muren , Li Wentao , Shi Xiaowei , Zhang Qiaoshan , Liu Heng , Liu Hu , Li Yan , Tian Buning
Published: December 2024

A spaceborne Earth‐coverage phased array (ECPA) antenna at Ka‐band is proposed for low‐Earth orbit (LEO) satellite applications, which is based on digital beamforming (DBF) partially shared subarray architecture to implement two stages of DBF. By taking into account the effects of mutual coupling in active element pattern optimization, a new method to obtain an Earth‐matched beam of the equivalent element of the ECPA is presented, in which the DBF‐shared subarray, segmental shaping technique, and differential evolution algorithm are utilized to achieve Earth‐coverage characteristic for the ECPA. Both the design method and the principle of DBF partially shared subarray for grating lobe suppression are presented. Moreover, a 16‐element DBF‐shared subarray with a shared ratio of 4:1 obtaining an Earth‐matched beam pattern is designed, optimized, and verified by full‐wave simulation in Ansys Electronics Desktop. Taking the DBF‐shared subarray as the equivalent element, an ECPA including 40 DBF‐shared subarrays is also designed and simulated. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed ECPA has excellent performance of Earth‐coverage scanning to compensate for the satellite communication link variation caused by path loss variation during beam scanning for LEO applications. In addition, the ECPA has the advantages of a low sidelobe level better than −20 dB as well as grating lobe suppression.
Table 5 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Diagnostic values of the three individual panels in the training set
Supplemental Figure 1 from Identification of ncRNA Biomarkers in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer to Address Racial Disparities
Authors: Gao Lu , Dhilipkannah Pushpa , Jiang Feng
Published: December 2024

Supplemental Figure 1. Differential expression of eleven ncRNAs in plasma and sputum between AA lung cancer patients and cancer-free smokers.
Cognitive impairment in older people accessing public mental health services across Australia and New Zealand: Implications for clinical practice, workforce development and service provision
Authors: McKay Roderick , Wand Anne , Cheung Gary
Published: December 2024

Assessment and management of older people with cognitive impairment, especially those associated with psychiatric symptoms; are recognised as core capabilities of old age psychiatrists. Bi-national collections of HoNOS65+/HoNOS reveal that over 40% of older people entering public mental health services across Australia and New Zealand have a clinically significant rating on the HoNOS65+/HoNOS cognitive problem scale, with rates increasing with age, and significant regional variability. The high rates of cognitive impairment in these data reinforce the need for all mental health clinicians working with older people to have the capability to assess people with cognitive impairment. Once cognitive impairment is identified, clinicians must be equipped to incorporate the implications into individualised management plans, appropriate referral pathways and community support services. Such skills cannot be the sole responsibility of old age psychiatrists or aged care psychiatry services given the significant number of older people seen by adult mental health services. Regional variability in rates of cognitive impairment raises significant questions regarding variation in service eligibility criteria, equity of access to appropriate mental health care and the availability of a workforce and clinical environments that can meet the needs of older people with cognitive impairment. Finally, psychiatry trainees must learn about working with older people with various degrees of cognitive impairment as part of providing high-quality psychiatric care for an ageing population.
Parental Perceptions and Practices Regarding Pain Management and Medical Marijuana Use in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Cinquepalmi Loretta , Ayeni Adetunbi , Melville Laura , Kelly Christopher
Published: December 2024

Parental strategies for home management of pain crisis in children with sickle cell anemia are not well studied. Non–steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are thought of as the mainstay of home and in-patient pain management for pediatric patients with sickle cell disease. Parents and providers often fear the use of opioids due to the risk of addiction. Medical marijuana is a potential adjunct therapy, but parental concerns regarding its use are not known. We aimed to assess parental strategies for home pain control, as well as attitudes toward the use of medical marijuana in children with sickle cell disease. Although medical marijuana may be a safer alternative to opioids, parents had similar concerns regarding marijuana. There were significant concerns regarding the societal implications of marijuana use. Further study of the utility of marijuana is warranted, but clinicians must look beyond the medical and consider the social consequences that may impact treatment acceptability.
A Reliance Typology of Collaborative Governance Platforms: Findings From a Comparative Study
Authors: Margerum Richard D. , Mason Dyana P. , Rosenberg Stacy , Khan Zafar
Published: December 2024

Collaborative governance has been discussed extensively in the public administration and management literatures, but there has been limited focus on structure and on the platforms supporting ongoing efforts. This article explores thirty collaborative groups over a 12-year period, using surveys, interviews, financial reports, and other data. The study proposes a typology of platforms based on their reliance on stakeholder boards, staff, or partners. The typology reveals implications related to the context, strengths, and weaknesses of different platforms, which can assist with their design, evaluation, and administration.
Investigation on the effect of silicon-graphite and polyimide coating on the wear behaviour of SS304
Authors: Arokya Agustin S , Arul Jeya Kumar A
Published: December 2024

Air foil bearings (AFB) working on hydrodynamic lubrication are exposed to more wear during start-stop condition of motion. To reduce the wear and to improve the damping properties of the top foil, the influence of the combined effect of silicon-graphite coating on bottom side with plain, texture and polyimide (PI) coated surface on top side of stainless steel (SS304) was analysed for low speeds. The SS304 is taken as a foil material on which silicon-graphite mixture is applied at the bottom of all specimens. The other side of the foil is exposed to sliding contact, three different surfaces such as plain, textured and PI coated surfaces are used in this study. Wear behaviour is analysed using pin-on-disc test as per ASTM standard and the results are compared. The average wear loss is 50% lesser in PI coated specimen than the plain specimen. The silicon-graphite coating acted as damper and provide better hardness. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study were carried out to understand the crystalline phase, functional groups, wear track, and wear region on the sliding surface of the specimen respectively. It is observed from FTIR results that the C = O and N-H bonds around 1729 and 3137 cm−1 wavelength. The XRD reveals that the coating shows austenite, martensite and hexagonal crystalline structures. The SEM images show a well adhered structure of PI with SS304. The combination of PI and silicon-graphite coating gives better wear resistance and damping resistance.
Deconstructing ‘Rough Sex’ in a New Zealand Murder Trial: Beyond the Modern Mythology of Everyday Kink
Authors: Gavey Nicola
Published: December 2024

I analyse the way ‘rough sex’, including ‘choking’, was normalised during the 2019 trial of Jesse Kempson for the murder of Grace Millane – and portrayed as a modern form of mutual and egalitarian sexual exploration, particularly for young people. While the so-called ‘rough sex defence’ has been widely critiqued for the way it operates in the criminal justice system to minimise violence against women and blame victims for their own murder or assault, I focus here on the wider social implications of such legal arguments. I identify how the trial was infused with a ‘modern mythology of everyday kink’ discourse, which I critically deconstruct through the lens of three women's stories about unwanted or unenjoyed ‘rough sex’. I show that this discourse obscures and enables concerning new patterns of hurtful, exploitative and violent acts against women and girls that are becoming normalised and legitimated in the name of (rough) sex.
Orienting and Alerting Attention in Very Low and Normal Birth Weight Children at 42 Months: A Follow-up Study
Authors: Nakagawa Atsuko , Sukigara Masune , Nomura Kayo , Nagai Yukiyo , Miyachi Taishi
Published: December 2024

Objective:

In preterm and very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, attention-related problems have been found to be more pronounced and emerge later as academic difficulties that may persist into school age. In response, based on three attention networks: alerting, orienting, and executive attention, we examined the development of attention functions at 42 months (not corrected for prematurity) as a follow-up study of VLBW ( n = 23) and normal birth weight (NBW: n = 48) infants.

Method:

The alerting and orienting attention networks were examined through an overlap task with or without warning signal. The orienting network was also examined through the distribution of gaze points when exposed to videos of human faces talking and silently looking straight ahead. Executive attention was examined using a parental report measure for temperamental self-regulation, effortful control.

Results:

In the overlap task, the difference between VLBWs and NBWs was not the latency of attentional disengagement but the fact that VLBWs were less focused on the fixation stimulus ( F(1,60) = 10.80, p < .01, η p2 = .071) and seemed to profit more from auditory warning signals than NBWs ( F(1,60) = 7.13, p = .01, η p2 = .106). Moreover, there was no intergroup difference regarding lateral (right or left) or feature (eye or mouth) attention bias toward the face videos. Further, longer latencies in overlap condition were significantly positively associated with high effortful control scores only in the NBW group ( r = .36, p = .018).

Conclusion:

Results indicate that poor underlying alertness and orienting relating to atypical lateralization may affect cognitive and behavioral abnormalities in VLBWs.
Embracing the Digital Era for Greater Impact and Accessibility
Authors: Ramirez-Valles Jesus
Published: December 2024

As we stand at the cusp of a transformative era in scholarly publishing, it is with great anticipation and excitement that we announce Health Education & Behavior ( HE&B) will transition to an exclusively online format starting in 2025. This decision aligns with our commitment to sustainability, accessibility, and leveraging digital advancements to enhance the dissemination of vital public health research.
Using ultrasound in preoperative mapping and surveillance of arteriovenous grafts for haemodialysis improves patency rates: Single-centre experience
Authors: Jarosciakova Julia , Utikal Petr , Malik Jan , Janeckova Jana
Published: December 2024

Background:

This study aimed to evaluate patency outcomes of arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) before and after using Duplex doppler ultrasonography (DUS) in preoperative mapping and surveillance of AVG.

Methods:

In this single-centre, retrospective cohort study 212 patients receiving AVGs from January 2009 to December 2022 were included. In group 1, the creation of AVG as well as screening was based on physical examination alone. In contrast, DUS was used in the preoperative mapping and surveillance of AVG in group 2. The patients also received sulodexide as supplemental medication. Outcomes included primary and secondary patency. The Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare the differences between groups in number of thrombectomies and preemptive percutaneous transluminal angioplasties (PTAs).

Results:

Group 1 included 90 AVGs. The mean follow-up time was 333 days (range: 1–1230 days, standard deviation: 318 days). The primary and secondary graft patency rates were 13.3%, 62.2% at 6 months; 2.2%, 52.1% at 12 months; 0%, 44.3% at 24 months and 0%, 44.3% at 36 months respectively. During the 7-year surveillance of AVG, significantly more thrombectomies were performed than preemptive PTA ( p < 0.0001). Group 2 included 122 AVGs. The mean follow-up time was 584 days (range: 1–2040 days, standard deviation: 463 days). The primary and secondary graft patency rates were 54.9%, 95.9% at 6 months; 29.5%, 77.8% at 12 months; and 9.8%, 56.5% at 24 months; 2.5%, 47.1% at 36 months respectively. The primary and secondary graft patency was significantly longer ( p < 0.0001, p = 0.002). During the 7-year surveillance of AVG there were significantly more preemptive PTAs performed ( p = 0.0004).

Conclusions:

The primary and secondary patency of AVG were significantly improved after using DUS in preoperative mapping and surveillance. DUS surveillance led to a decrease in AVG occlusion. A potential positive effect of sulodexide on patency rate of AVG needs more research.
A modified softened truss model and strength prediction formula for fiber-reinforced polymer reinforced concrete members under pure torsion
Authors: Saleh Eslam M , Jiang Jiafei , Xue Weichen
Published: December 2024

A modified rotating-angle softened truss model (RA-STM) is proposed for analyzing the torsional behavior of fiber-reinforced polymer-reinforced concrete (FRP-RC) members under pure torsion. In the modified model, a generalized tension stiffening model is developed with consideration of discrepancy in the modulus of reinforcement. Furthermore, a robust numerical model is developed by refining the RA-STM as a system of nonlinear equations instead of a trial-and-error technique, which can significantly improve computational efficiency. The proposed model is verified against the experimental results of FRP-RC members, yielding an average test-to-predicted torsional strength ratio of 1.04 with a coefficient of variation of 11.66%. Moreover, the predicted torque-twist response, reinforcement strain, concrete strain, and failure modes can closely agree with the experimental results. At last, the adapted model is utilized in a parametric study to investigate the influence of key variables on the torsional behavior of FRP-RC members. Nonlinear regression analyses are performed to propose a semiempirical strength prediction formula and balanced stirrup ratio for the FRP-RC members under pure torsion.
Exposure to physical, sexual and emotional violence and health-related factors among the adult population in the Faroe Islands
Authors: Petersen Tóra , Joensen Heri , Rógvi Heri Á , Mohr Magni , Veyhe Anna SofÍa
Published: December 2024

Aims:

The Faroe Islands is a small homogenous archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean with no prior study of violence among adults. In an adult population-based sample, we studied physical, sexual and emotional violence and health and socio-economic determinants.

Methods:

A population-based cross-sectional survey conducted between November 2020 and February 2021 was based on a newly initiated questionnaire that included 1068 randomly selected individuals aged 18–75.

Results:

A total of 34.8% reported exposure to physical violence, 21.8% to sexual violence and 22.3% to emotional violence. A total of 12.6% of the women and 7.6% of the men reported exposure to all three types of violence. The consequences of childhood violence had a more significant effect on the subjects compared to adult-life violence. Additionally, individuals exposed to violence had significantly lower odds of achieving any educational attainment.

Conclusions:

Compared to men and after adjustments, women had 50% lower odds of exposure to physical (odds ratio=0.5, p<0.001) and more than three times the odds of exposure to sexual violence (odds ratio=3.1, p<0.001). The odds of emotional violence were sex independent, both unadjusted and adjusted. Moreover, exposure to violence showed a life-long negative impact.
Impact compressive properties of polyurethane foams with 3D continuous fibre reinforcement
Authors: Schäfer Kay , Nestler Daisy , Kroll Lothar
Published: December 2024

Flexible and rigid polyurethane foams are used in applications subjected to impact loads. Integrating a three-dimensional, continuous fibre reinforcement meets high requirements for stiffness and strength. A fundamental comparison of the impact compressive properties was carried out for contributing to a reasonable choice between these variants. A rigid and flexible foam with a bulk density of 85 kg/m3 each was investigated with and without reinforcement by a warp-knitted spacer fabric. The material testing was conducted using a drop weight tester in accordance with a German standard. Three impacts are applied by a hammer with a flat surface larger than the area of the sample plate. Different impact energies were investigated and the deformation behaviour was analysed using a high-speed camera. Much higher energy absorptions at low deformations were found with rigid foam. Peak stresses and decelerations were lower with flexible foam if the load did not densify the material. Reinforcing the foams leads to an anisotropic deformation and improves the impact compressive properties, especially in the case of the flexible variant. The four materials analysed had a similar rebound and largely maintained their performance when subjected to the repeated impact load.
Numerical and experimental analysis of shear strength on SLM 3D-printed stainless-steel bonded joints enhanced by bio-inspired surface pattern
Authors: Naat N , Belhadjamor M , Mezlini S , da Silva LFM , Hajlaoui K
Published: December 2024

The performance of adhesive joints is significantly influenced by the surface texture of the adherends, making texture a crucial factor in their analysis and optimization. Existing literature on numerical modeling of bonded joints predominantly focuses on smooth surfaces, often neglecting the impact of surface patterns. As a result, there is limited understanding of how complex surface textures affect joint performance. Advanced surface textures, such as those inspired from biomimetic systems, have the potential to enhance joint strength. This study addresses this gap by developing two numerical models: one representing a smooth surface (without-texture) and another incorporating a biomimetic fish-scales (FS) texture. The models use Cohesive Zone Modeling with a local approach to simulate the effects of surface texture and adhesive behavior on block-shear joint performance. These models were validated through experimental block-shear tests on P1000 (polished with 1000-grit abrasive paper) and FS-textured stainless-steel joints. Experimental results demonstrated that the FS texture significantly improved joint strength by approximately 44% compared to the P1000 surface. This enhancement is attributed to better adhesive anchoring and extended contact area. Numerical results indicated that the model without-texture exhibited significant stress concentrations at the edges of the overlap, suggesting failure initiation in these regions. However, the FS texture caused repetitive stress peaks along the overlap, and the vertical walls of this texture effectively hindered crack propagation at the interface. Additionally, both models accurately predicted the maximum shear load and failure modes of the P1000 and FS bonded joints, demonstrating good agreement with experimental results, particularly for the hyper-elastic adhesive behavior.
Buckling and post-buckling behavior of auxetic cellular structures
Authors: BelHadjAmor M , Belghith S , Ben Bettaieb M , Mezlini S , Abed-Meraim F
Published: December 2024

In this work, experimental tests and numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the buckling behavior and failure modes of auxetic cellular structures and sandwich panels with auxetic cores. Different Poisson's ratios and densities are considered to evaluate the impact of these parameters on the deformation mechanisms under uniaxial compression loading. The numerical analysis is performed using the Riks method, while considering geometric nonlinearity and elastoplastic behavior. The results indicate that negative Poisson's ratio and structure density have a significant influence on the buckling critical stress and the failure mechanisms of cellular structures. Although the inverted honeycomb and the double arrowhead with different Poisson's ratios exhibit similar load capacity, facesheet failure is more pronounced with the conventional inverted honeycomb. This result can be attributed to the dominant effect of the facesheet on the load evolution. The effects of the cell-wall thickness and the facesheet thickness on the buckling load are also discussed based on the finite element model.
The historical evolution of smallpox treatment in Japan visualised through Japanese artwork and woodblock prints
Authors: Chua Wen Xin Rachel , Goh Shyer Wern , Wee Wen Hon Darren , Osawa Hanna , Mucheli Sharavan Sadasiv , Fan Bingwen Eugene
Published: December 2024

Art reveals core human emotions during catastrophes like epidemics, allowing people to narrate their coping stories. This review examines smallpox’s historical evolution and treatment in Japan, integrating visual art with medical history. It provides chronological insights from smallpox’s arrival and traditional remedies to the era of vaccination and public health measures leading to eventual eradication. Art played a vital role in Japan’s smallpox eradication, helping to galvanise societal engagement and public trust. Efforts included utilising political and administrative systems for vaccination initiatives and effective public health methods for outbreak surveillance and containment. Japan’s smallpox eradication story, depicted in art, offers valuable lessons on the power of robust public health policy and societal cooperation, providing a framework for managing current and future infectious diseases and pandemics.
Hispanic-Serving Research One Institutions as Racialized Organizations: Making Sense of Dual Identities
Authors: Jones Veronica Adele , Guess Alexis , Kunkle Kelsey , Anderson Shirley , Haynes LaToya
Published: December 2024

This study explored the dual identity of Hispanic-serving research institutions (HSRIs) by highlighting how employees at four HSRIs perceived how both Hispanic-Serving Institutions and research-intensive statuses are reflected in the organization. Using the theory of racialized organizations (Ray, 2019), findings revealed how racialization occurs when research prestige becomes the dominant status, and certain individuals take on additional labor. Participants discussed ways that servingness can bridge the statuses by providing research opportunities for underrepresented populations.
Multigenerational Punishment and Its Impact on Academics: Latinx/a/o College Students Protecting Undocumented Parents at All Costs
Authors: Nuñez Amy J.
Published: December 2024

This study explores the academic experiences of Latinx/a/o college students with undocumented parents. Nineteen qualitative interviews oriented by Latino/a Critical Theory and Habermas’ Theory of Communicative Action were utilized. Findings suggest that Latinx/a/o college students with undocumented parents experience multigenerational punishment when it comes to their academics and feel as though they must protect their parents at all costs (emotional, physical, financial, aspirational, and time) throughout their K-12 and higher education journeys.
A Morphologic Analysis of Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Avulsion Fracture Fragments and Risk Factors for Surgical Treatment
Authors: Legerstee Ingmar W. F. , Kooi Kevin , Hoftiezer Yannick A. J. , Lipson Sarah M. , Aldasooky Rawan , Kanaan Razan , Nelissen Rob G. H. H. , Bhashyam Abhiram R. , Chen Neal C. , Eberlin Kyle R.
Published: December 2024

Background:

There is debate regarding nonoperative versus surgical treatment of thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears with avulsion fractures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the fragment size in relation to the UCL footprint size in patients with an avulsion fracture injury and to find risk factors associated with surgical treatment.

Methods:

In a cohort of avulsion fracture injury patients, the largest side of the fragment was divided by the average reported UCL footprint size (ff-ratio), and a logistic regression was performed to find variables associated with surgery.

Results:

The mean ff-ratio was 1.1 in 114 patients with an avulsion fracture injury. Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint instability, rather than the largest fragment side, was a significant risk factor for surgery.

Conclusions:

An avulsion fracture fragment associated with thumb UCL injury approximates the dimensions of the UCL footprint. In addition, MCP joint instability was associated with surgery in patients with avulsion fracture injuries.