bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Within-population variation in signal timing preferences and its implications for sexual selection on male displays
Authors: Höbel Gerlinde
Published: April 2024

Female mate choice decisions are guided by preferences for male display features, but in chorusing species the displays of different males may temporally overlap. Here, mate choice decisions may be guided by preferences based on signal timing in addition to signal features. Which type of preference dominates has implications for our understanding of the dynamics of sexual selection in group-displaying animals. I presented female treefrogs with a series of playback treatments varying the amounts of calls in leader/follower position to establish the lowest proportion of leading calls resulting in a preference. About half the females expressed leader preferences when fewer than 15% of calls are in leading position (the maximum produced by chorusing males). This suggests that mate choice decisions will be dominated by call timing preferences in some females, and by call features preferences others, overall lowering the strength of selection on either male display trait.
Forming Adolescents for the Better Kind of Politics Called for by Pope Francis
Authors: Feduccia Robert
Published: April 2024

Pope Francis has called for a “new kind of politics” and has called for this current generation of young people to be the lead agents in forming a new future. This article considers the current fragmentation between the professed beliefs and the expressed practices of this young generation and proposes a liturgical and eucharistic theology that can bring unity to this fragmentation. It draws on insights from Pauline theology, the writings of the late Edward Farley, the practices of Cyril of Jerusalem, and from the prayers found in the Roman Missal itself. It concludes with a guide for integrating participation in the liturgy and the actions needed for a new kind of politics.
Optimizing Photovoltaic Efficiency Through Di-Indium Tri-Selenide Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Rathod Kishan C. , Babar Umesh D. , Kamble Pradip D. , Sanadi Kallappa R. , Kamble Ganesh S. , Mahamuni Sandip V. , Gaur Muddsar L. , Abd El-Salam Nasser M. , Fouad Hassan
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on investigating the photovoltaic efficiency of chemically deposited In2Se3 thin films for solar energy conversion. Thin film solar cells have several advantages, including reduced material usage, cost-effectiveness, and the potential for improved
efficiency. Our research specifically explores the viability of chemically deposited In2Se3 thin films for converting solar energy into electrical energy through chemical processes. The photovoltaic (PV) cell configuration consists of In2Se3 thin
films as the photoanode and a sulfide-polysulphide (0.15 M) solution as the electrolyte. The structure of the cell is n-In2Se3 | NaOH (0.15 M)+ S (0.15 M)+Na2S (0.15 M) |C (graphite). To comprehensively analyze the performance of the thin films, we employ various
characterization techniques. These include studying the current-voltage characteristics under both dark and light conditions, capacitance–voltage in the dark, barrier height measurements, power output analysis, photo response evaluation, and spectrum response examinations. Through these
analyses, we have discovered that In2Se3 exhibits n-type conductivity. Noteworthy results include a junction ideality factor of 3.43, a flat band potential of −0.680 V, and a barrier height of 0.193 eV. The power output characteristics provide crucial insights
into the performance of the PV cell. We measured the open circuit voltage, short circuit current, fill factor, efficiency, and photo response lighted ideality factor, which were found to be 320 mV, 25.4 μA, 36.46%, 0.69%, and 2.56, respectively. This research significantly contributes
to our understanding of the photovoltaic efficiency of di-indium tri-selenide thin film solar cells. It offers valuable insights for optimizing their performance in solar energy conversion applications.
Energy Gain Kernel for Climate Feedbacks. Part I: Formulation and Physical Understanding
Authors: Cai Ming , Hu Xiaoming , Sun Jie , Ding Feng , Feng Jing
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a climate feedback kernel, referred to as the “energy gain kernel” (EGK). EGK allows for separating the net longwave radiative energy perturbations given by a Planck feedback matrix explicitly into thermal energy emission perturbations of individual layers and thermal radiative energy flux convergence perturbations at individual layers resulting from the coupled atmosphere–surface temperature changes in response to the unit forcing in individual layers. The former is represented by the diagonal matrix of a Planck feedback matrix and the latter by EGK. Elements of EGK are all positive, representing amplified energy perturbations at a layer where forcing is imposed and energy gained at other layers, both of which are achieved through radiative thermal coupling within an atmosphere–surface column. Applying EGK to input energy perturbations, whether external or internal due to responses of nontemperature feedback processes to external energy perturbations, such as water vapor and albedo feedbacks, yields their total energy perturbations amplified through radiative thermal coupling within an atmosphere–surface column. As the strength of EGK depends exclusively on climate mean states, it offers a solution for effectively and objectively separating control climate state information from climate perturbations for climate feedback studies. Given that an EGK comprises critical climate mean state information on mean temperature, water vapor, clouds, and surface pressure, we envision that the diversity of EGK across different climate models could provide insight into the inquiry of why, under the same anthropogenic greenhouse gas increase scenario, different models yield varying degrees of global mean surface warming.

Significance Statement

The wide range of 2.5°–4.0°C in global warming projections by climate models hinders our ability to predict its impacts. The newly introduced energy gain kernel (EGK) provides critical information for climate mean infrared opacity, which is collectively determined by climate mean temperature, water vapor, clouds, and surface pressure fields. EGK is directly derived from physical principles without additional definition. EGK captures the temperature feedback’s amplification of energy perturbations initiated from both external forcing and internal nontemperature feedback processes. EGK allows for disentangling positive and negative aspects of temperature feedback, rectifying the common misconception in existing temperature kernels that portray temperature feedback as predominantly negative. The diversity of EGK across different climate models may help explain their varying global warming degrees.
Polydisperse Sea Spray Effect on the Vertical Momentum Transport in Hurricanes
Authors: Rastigejev Yevgenii , Suslov Sergey A.
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on the influence of the sea spray polydispersity on the vertical transport of momentum in a turbulent marine atmospheric boundary layer in high-wind conditions of a hurricane. The Eulerian multifluid model treating air and spray droplets of different sizes as interacting interpenetrating continua is developed and its numerical solutions are analyzed. Several droplet size distribution spectra and correlation laws relating wind speed and spray production intensity are considered. Polydisperse model solutions have confirmed the difference between the roles small and large spray droplets play in modifying the turbulent momentum transport that have been previously identified by monodisperse spray models. The obtained results have also provided a physical explanation for the previously unreported phenomenon of the formation of thin low-eddy-viscosity “sliding” layers in strongly turbulent boundary layer flows laden with predominantly fine spray.

Significance Statement

Achieving better accuracy in hurricane forecasts requires an in-depth understanding and accurate modeling of the ocean spray effect on the vertical fluxes of momentum and heat in a hurricane boundary layer. It has been shown that this effect depends on the size distribution of spray droplets, also known as spray polydispersity. This study aims to investigate the influence of a polydisperse spray on the vertical momentum transport within hurricane boundary layers by employing a modern theory of turbulent disperse multiphase flows.
Contributing to ‘a sense of purpose’ – Evaluating consumer recovery progress after attending a therapeutic-recreation intervention programme: A quantitative analysis
Authors: Jay Elissa-Kate , Moxham Lorna , Roberts Michelle , Yousiph Taylor , Robson Georgia , Lewer Kelly , Patterson Christopher
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

The recommended objective for mental health plans and policies is the adoption of recovery approaches to mental healthcare. Mental health recovery is no longer defined by symptom resolution but as a journey towards a meaningful life from the consumer’s own perspective. Recovery approaches focus on consumers’ strengths, feelings of well-being and the achievement of personal goals. Designing recovery-oriented interventions is crucial for supporting people in their personal recovery journey.

Aim:

This study sought to evaluate how attending a recovery-oriented intervention impacts the recovery of attending people living with serious mental illness.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental approach was utilised to examine changes in self-reported recovery progress in a purposive sample of consumers living with enduring mental illness ( N = 105). Recovery progress was evaluated via the Recovery Assessment Scale – Domains and Stages (RAS-DS). Data were collected at entry and exit to a therapeutic recreation programme grounded in principles of recovery-oriented care and social contact theory. Pre-post scores were analysed via a repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance (RM-MANOVA) per the four RAS-DS recovery domains.

Results:

After attending the therapeutic recreation programme, consumer recovery scores significantly increased in the functional, personal, and social recovery RAS-DS domains as measured by ‘ Doing Things I Value’, ‘Looking Forward’, and ‘ Connecting and Belonging’ (respectively). No changes were observed to consumers’ clinical recovery progress, as assessed via the recovery domain ‘ Mastering my Illness’.

Conclusion:

The results of this study demonstrate that therapeutic recreation camps can provide a recovery-based approach to mental healthcare, with positive effects on the three areas of: a purposeful life; connection and belonging; and optimism and hope. Recovery Camp has been previously identified by the Productivity Commission as having potential person-centred recovery benefits for mental health consumers. The results of this study now establish these benefits as evidence based and can be used to guide mental health practice and policy for the implementation of therapeutic recreation camps for mental health recovery.
Accra Airport City I: A Global Space and An Exclusionary Enclave
Authors: Addo Irene Appeaning
Published: April 2024

Airport cities are global spaces used by countries to improve non-aeronautical revenue and to attract foreign direct investment. The planning of such spaces is underpinned by neoliberal ideology and market-dominated policy which often do not make them inclusive. Yet the United Nations SDG 11 and New Urban Agenda calls for inclusive communities in planning urban spaces. Meanwhile GACL maintains a commoditised enclave with zero tolerance policy towards unwarranted use of the open spaces for informal food vending. The results show that the lower class are finding alternatives to address their basic need and their actions are blurring the hegemonic planning.
Being My Neighbours’ Keeper: Interrogating the Management of the Terrorism–Migration Nexus in West Africa Sub-Region
Authors: David James Ojochenemi , Mabudusha Angel Sekgololo
Published: April 2024

Cooperation among neighbouring countries is critical for managing security threats like terrorism and migration. Despite their proximity, states often struggle to cooperate for various reasons, including a lack of solidarity, which can harm regional peace and stability. This study uses qualitative research to examine West African nations’ cooperation in combating Islamist terrorism and aiding affected individuals across borders. Applying regional security complex theory and transnationalism, we assess how terrorism-driven migration impacts regional security, peace and development, highlighting cooperation challenges. This study redefines ‘neighbour’ in international relations, emphasising proactive international solidarity and shared responsibility to address insecurity.
The Alcohol Harm Paradox in Periodontitis
Authors: Oliveira L.M. , Zanatta F.B. , Costa S.A. , Pelissari T.R. , Baumeister S.E. , Demarco F.F. , Nascimento G.G.
Published: April 2024

Individuals of lower socioeconomic position (SEP) experience a greater rate of alcohol-related harms, yet they consume equal or lower amounts of alcohol than higher-SEP individuals. This phenomenon, called the “alcohol harm paradox” (AHP), gained attention recently, and different mechanisms have been proposed to explain it. Since both SEP and alcohol have been suggested to be associated with periodontitis risk, we conducted a secondary analysis using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2011 to 2012 and 2013 to 2014 cycles, aiming to examine 1) whether the association between alcohol consumption and periodontitis is modified by SEP and 2) the extent to which the effect of SEP inequalities on periodontitis is mediated by and/or interacts with alcohol consumption. We set educational attainment as the main SEP proxy and tested the poverty income ratio in subsequent sensitivity analyses. Effect measure modification analysis was employed, considering heavy drinking as exposure, and causal mediation analysis based on the potential outcome’s framework decomposed the effect of SEP on periodontitis in proportions attributable to mediation and interaction. Models were fitted using binary logistic regression and adjusted for sex, ethnicity, age, body mass index, smoking status, diabetes, binge drinking, and regular preventive dental visits. The analytical sample comprised 4,057 participants. After adjusting for covariates, less educated heavy drinkers presented 175% (odds ratio, 2.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.04–3.72) higher odds of periodontitis than their counterparts, and super-additive associations were found (relative excess risk due to interaction: 1.35; 95% CI, 0.49–2.20). Additionally, −69.5% (95% CI, −122.1% to −16.8%) of the effects of education on periodontitis were attributable to interaction with heavy drinking, consistent with the AHP. No contribution was found for the mechanism of mediation. Heavy drinking disproportionately impacts the occurrence of periodontitis in lower-SEP individuals. Lower-SEP individuals seem to experience differential effects of heavy drinking on periodontitis.
Group or Individual Sales Incentives? What Is Best for Brand-Managed Retail Sales Operations?
Authors: Zhang Wenshu , Li Jia , Balachander Subramanian
Published: April 2024

This research studies sales force incentive compensation in brand-managed retail (BMR) operations, which are particularly prevalent in high-end department stores and vertically integrated retailers. In particular, the research explores how a brand's strength may affect the relative benefit to a brand from using individual versus group incentives for motivating its salespeople in BMR settings. The authors investigate this issue using a theoretical principal–agent model consisting of a risk-neutral firm employing multiple risk-averse salespeople. Interestingly, they find that a group incentive is more beneficial to a weaker brand than to a stronger one. Furthermore, the authors find empirical support for their theoretical findings from an analysis of sales compensation data from BMR operations in two different settings. The research findings suggest that managers should factor in the brand's strength when deciding on the optimal salesperson compensation structure in BMR settings.
Impressing Artificial Intelligence: Automated Job Interview Training in Professional English Subjects
Authors: Jarvis Andrew , Ho Anna , Lim Grace
Published: April 2024

More organizations are using automated job interview platforms to screen candidates at the early stages of the recruitment process. These platforms enable job candidates to take automated video interviews remotely using their personal devices. The interviews are analysed by artificial intelligence (AI) powered algorithms to produce analytics which inform hiring decisions. In this article, we explore the use of automated job interviewing within professional English subjects delivered to undergraduate students in Hong Kong. The innovation was introduced to help students to keep up with recruitment practices, provide speaking practice and explore AI-powered evaluation as a form of feedback. As well as outlining how automated interviewing was integrated into our teaching practice, we discuss student feedback on the experience and offer suggestions for future teaching practice with this technology. We also highlight considerations for practitioners such as the acceptance and adoption of AI technologies into language learning provision and the development of AI literacy skills. AI technologies have much potential for language teaching and this article offers a practical exploration into one such technology: automated job interviewing.
“I Never Explicitly Brought That Up to My Mentor”: Early Career Teachers of Color Navigating Whiteness With White Mentors in a University-Based Induction Program
Authors: Daly Annie , Vlach Saba Khan , Tily Susan , Murdter-Atkinson Jessi , Maloch Beth
Published: April 2024

We examined how three early career teachers of color (TOC) experienced mentoring with white mentors in a university-based induction program within a large urban school district. We found cross-racial pairs privileged whiteness by pursuing “success” through standardized teaching methods (e.g., classroom management) while also avoiding discussions about race, leaving little space or reason to address the overt forms of racism mentees experienced during their first year of teaching. Our findings highlight the need to bring race and racism to the forefront of university-based mentoring to address the harm early career TOC experience in entering a profession dominated by whiteness.
Phenomenology, Cultural Meaning, and the Curious Case of Suicide: Localizing the Structure-Culture Dialectic
Authors: Zhang Jienian , Uscola Colter , Abrutyn Seth , Mueller Anna S.
Published: April 2024

Sociology has largely followed Durkheim’s lead in ignoring the question: why do people die by suicide? This negation prioritizes a positivist, structuralist approach and stymies sociology’s contribution by closing off a wide range of tools sociologists might employ. An interpretivist turn in suicide studies accompanied by the growing adoption of qualitative methodology has opened up an array of opportunities to produce insights lost in a Durkheimian approach, but has yet to confront their own weaknesses. This paper shows we need not abandon either tradition, advocating for a third path that integrates the strengths of both approaches.
A Case of a Eustachian Tube Hairy Polyp Misdiagnosed as an Adenoid Residual in a Child
Authors: Liu Yi , Yang Tian Wen , Long Yi Lin , Xu Wen Bo , Tang Li Wen , Li Chun Lei
Published: April 2024

Hairy polyps, considered a highly unusual congenital anomaly of the pharynx, are believed by many scholars to arise from the ectoderm and mesoderm during the embryonic stage. These growths often have a pear or sausage shape, are pedunculated, and their size ranges between 0.5 and 6 cm. They are typically grayish white or pink in color. This article discusses a 12-year-old female who had a growth at the Eustachian tube’s entrance on the left side of the nasopharyngeal wall, as identified by a computed tomography scan of the neck soft tissue; it was suspected to be a hairy polyp originating from the left Eustachian tube. The diagnosis of a hairy polyp was confirmed through pathology. The hairy polyp at the Eustachian tube, in this case, showed an irregular form with a wide base, making it look similar to an adenoid; thus, increasing the risk of it being misdiagnosed as residual adenoid tissue.
How Culture Impacts Economic Development: A Cross-country Comparison
Authors: Berríos Rubén
Published: April 2024

The significance of cultural factors in economic development is analyzed. Culture here refers to values, behaviors, and beliefs. Culture alone cannot explain development, but there are some factors that help us understand why some countries develop faster than others. The study makes use of the World Values Survey as a road map for analysis using cross-cultural comparisons. The analysis focuses on two key core values: trust and achievement. This is applied to two regions: East Asia (Japan and Korea) and Latin America (Mexico and Peru). The aim is to examine how aspects of culture help accelerate or impede development.
Custodial Grandmothers in the Attappadi Indigenous Belt of Kerala: Towards Recognition and Action
Authors: Athira V.H.  , Nalini R.  , Choolayil Anoop C.
Published: April 2024

The phenomenon of custodial grandparents has increased in South Asia and elsewhere, partly due to the growing trend of parents migrating for work, but often because of the untimely demise of one or both parents, illness, alcoholism and related issues affecting the birth parents. Adopting a phenomenological lens, this article explores the lived experiences and perceived needs of 10 custodial grandmothers from the Attappadi indigenous belt in Kerala to discuss how they cope with multiple challenges. Data gathering through indigenous storytelling methods and an interpretive phenomenological analysis points to new forms of feminisation of caregiving through custodial grandparenting, which require further research. Within the complex socio-economic and health contexts of the selected sample, our fieldwork explores the implications of the absence of the middle generation, which creates a network of intersecting disadvantages. We argue that the resulting calls for better support networks to assist these indigenous custodial grandmothers need to be addressed effectively at the levels of policy and practice.
Against abstraction: Reclaiming and reorienting to embodied collective knowledges of solidarity
Authors: Hunt/Tłaliłila’ogwa Sarah , Farrales May
Published: April 2024

This article asks what kinds of places are we making within academic institutions concerned with racial and gender justice, decolonization and reconciliation when the terms of justice are fostered through the violence of abstraction? As queer scholar-activists, we share firsthand accounts of our movement from sites of community activism to the halls of academe, revealing the techniques and consequences of abstracting racist and gendered violence and dispossession. We insist on a reorientation, meaning a return to and towards, our embodied collective knowledges as sources of authority on and against the violences of settler colonialism and racial capitalism. We first recount the roots of our activism when we met in spaces of solidarity in unceded Coast Salish territories. We then describe the ways we have experienced this collective knowledge being represented back to us as we moved into academic spaces, emphasizing the epistemic violence of abstracting knowledge from its messy, hard-wrought foundations. Finally, we share strategies and experiences of reorienting ourselves toward collective and embodied knowledges in which solidarity is once again at the centre. In dialogue, we reject the violence of abstraction while asserting knowledge sovereignty in which communities maintain agency within the terms in which their lives are represented.
Reactive collision-free motion generation in joint space via dynamical systems and sampling-based MPC
Authors: Koptev Mikhail , Figueroa Nadia , Billard Aude
Published: April 2024

Dynamical system (DS) based motion planning offers collision-free motion, with closed-loop reactivity thanks to their analytical expression. It ensures that obstacles are not penetrated by reshaping a nominal DS through matrix modulation, which is constructed using continuously differentiable obstacle representations. However, state-of-the-art approaches may suffer from local minima induced by non-convex obstacles, thus failing to scale to complex, high-dimensional joint spaces. On the other hand, sampling-based Model Predictive Control (MPC) techniques provide feasible collision-free paths in joint-space, yet are limited to quasi-reactive scenarios due to computational complexity that grows cubically with space dimensionality and horizon length. To control the robot in the cluttered environment with moving obstacles, and to generate feasible and highly reactive collision-free motion in robots’ joint space, we present an approach for modulating joint-space DS using sampling-based MPC. Specifically, a nominal DS representing an unconstrained desired joint space motion to a target is locally deflected with obstacle-tangential velocity components navigating the robot around obstacles and avoiding local minima. Such tangential velocity components are constructed from receding horizon collision-free paths generated asynchronously by the sampling-based MPC. Notably, the MPC is not required to run constantly, but only activated when the local minima is detected. The approach is validated in simulation and real-world experiments on a 7-DoF robot demonstrating the capability of avoiding concave obstacles, while maintaining local attractor stability in both quasi-static and highly dynamic cluttered environments.
Association of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio with the occurrence of venous thromboembolism and arterial thrombosis
Authors: Nguyen Ha Thanh , Vu Minh Phuong , Nguyen Thi Tuyet Mai , Nguyen Tuan Tung , Kieu Thi Van Oanh , Duong Hai Yen , Pham Phuong Thao , Hoang Thi Hue
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the association of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with the occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and arterial thrombosis (AT).

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study including 585 medical records obtained from all consecutive patients who were suspected of having thrombosis.

Results

The AT group had a higher neutrophil count and NLR and a lower lymphocyte count than the non-thrombosis group. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the ability of the NLR to predict the presence of AT. The cut-off value for the NLR was 4.44. No distinction was found in the NLR between the VTE and non-thrombosis groups. Regression analysis showed that a high NLR was an independent factor related to the presence of AT. Patients with an NLR ≥ 4.44 had a higher risk of AT than those with an NLR < 4.44 (odds ratio = 2.015, 95% confidence interval: 1.180–3.443).

Conclusion

A high NLR may be considered a predictive factor for the occurrence of AT, but an association with the presence of VTE was not found.
Impact of Pavement Stiffness on Performance of Traffic Speed Deflection Measurements
Authors: Beizaei Mahsa , Rocha Sergio , Tirado Cesar , Nazarian Soheil , Rada Gonzalo
Published: April 2024

Traffic speed deflection devices (TSDDs) have attracted much attention as innovative tools for assessing the structural capacity of highway networks. However, the sensor and operational limitations of these devices in assessing accurately and precisely the pavement structural condition have not been thoroughly established. In this study, the performance of the traffic speed deflectometer (TSD) measurements was evaluated using data from six instrumented pavement sections. The tested sections included different pavement types such as flexible, composite, and rigid pavements with varying overall level of stiffness. Based on the comparison between TSD measurements and the data obtained from field-installed instrumentation, TSD could measure the deflection velocity profiles reliably at flexible pavement sections. The level of noise superimposed on the signal of TSD deflection velocities was highly dependent on the pavement type and stiffness.
Mason Caregivers Aiming for Resilience, Empowerment, and Support Study: Assessing Family Caregiver Burden Post-Intervention
Authors: Gimm Gilbert , Layman Shannon , Inoue Megumi , Ihara Emily S. , Pantleay Harveen , Tompkins Catherine J.
Published: April 2024

Background: Family caregivers of older adults living with dementia are known to experience higher burden levels. Methods: This empirical study conducted a sub-group analysis of burden levels of 97 family caregivers by the dementia severity of care recipients. Family caregivers were assessed before and after the 9-week Stress-Busting Program for Family CaregiversTM (SBP). Results: Family caregivers of older adults living with severe dementia had the highest baseline Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) score of 27.7 which decreased to 25.0 ( p < .05); family caregivers of those living with moderate dementia had a baseline ZBI score of 24.3 which decreased to 20.4 ( p < .01); and family caregivers of those living with mild dementia had the lowest baseline ZBI score of 21.0, which decreased to 18.0 ( p < .01). Conclusion: The SBP intervention was associated with a 15% reduction in burden scores for family caregivers of older adults living with dementia.
College Faculty Experiences With Student Disclosures of Victimization
Authors: Cares Alison C. , Madero-Hernandez Arelys , Bostaph Lisa Growette , Fisher Bonnie S.
Published: April 2024

Victimization of college students is widespread, and it is not uncommon for students to disclose these experiences to faculty. Given that how faculty respond to disclosures may have implications for students’ psychosocial and academic outcomes, it is key to know more about disclosures to help faculty prepare a supportive response. This study used data from an online survey of members of two U.S.-based professional scholarly associations for criminal justice and criminology ( N = 637) to look at the nature of student disclosure of victimization and which faculty are more likely to receive such disclosures. Disclosure to faculty was widespread (87% of faculty had received at least one disclosure of victimization from a student), and disclosures were mostly made in person. Over half the time (52.3%), participants thought the disclosure was prompted by an incident in class or another aspect of the course, and more than a quarter of the time (28.8%), the disclosure came from a student in a course that utilized trigger warnings. A faculty member’s individual identities, such as gender or race and ethnicity, did not appear to render them more or less likely to receive student disclosures. However, faculty with victimization experiences who had links to victim services organizations, who were teaching in a Sociology department, or who had been teaching longer were more likely to have received a disclosure. Graduate student instructors were less likely to have received a disclosure, even controlling for years of teaching. This suggests widespread training of college-level instructors in how to respond to a student’s disclosure of victimization may be warranted, at least for faculty teaching courses focusing on criminology and criminal justice.
An improvement in the mechanical properties of polypropylene/ethylene-propylene-diene monomer/titanium dioxide nanocomposite obtained by fused filament fabrication
Authors: Xu Lei , Chen Yu , Zheng Xiang , Hu Xuzhao
Published: April 2024

In the present research, the PP/EPDM/TiO2 nanocomposite was fabricated using the fused filament fabrication process to improve the mechanical properties of the obtained samples. For this purpose, first the response surface methodology was used to investigate the effect of TiO2 content, nozzle temperature and printing speed on the responses of tensile strength and elongation. Then, the desirability function method was applied to find the optimal condition of the process parameters. The fracture surface of the tensile samples was also studied by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis to find a relationship between the microstructure and mechanical properties of the fabricated samples. The results indicated that the highest elongation of samples (144.9%) was attained at a TiO2 content of 4 wt%, while the tensile strength of samples was maximized (24.6 MPa) at a TiO2 content of 2 wt% due to fine dispersion of the nanoparticles. An increase in the nozzle temperature from 200 to 225°C led to an enhancement in the tensile strength (11.2%) and elongation (15.7%) of samples because of the good viscosity of the filament, whereas the tensile strength (6.6%) and elongation (11.1%) of samples were decreased with the increase of nozzle temperature from 225 to 250°C because of the thermal degradation of filament. Moreover, when the printing speed raised from 20 to 40 mm/s, the tensile strength initially improved by 2.7% and then decreased by 1.2%, but the elongation continuously decreased by 6.3%. Nevertheless, the concurrent enhancement of the tensile strength and elongation has been obtained at a TiO2 content of 2.5 wt%, nozzle temperature of 227°C and printing speed of 28 mm/s.
Design, synthesis and characterization of high refractive index aromatic polyesters containing fluorene and thioether groups
Authors: Wu Zihao , Wang Jian , Jiang Jingwei , Lei Jinhua , Nie Heran , Zhou Guangyuan , Yuan Qiliang
Published: April 2024

9,9-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)fluorene (BPF) is a highly structurally symmetric bisphenol with excellent optical properties of low birefringence and high refractive index, however, the glass transition temperature ( Tg) of its polyester is high ( Tg>300°C), which makes it difficult to be thermally processed and limits its application. On the other hand, 4,4′-Thiobis (2-methylphenol) (T2MP) has a flexible thioether group, its introduction not only brings high refractive index, but also can appropriately reduce the Tg of the polymer. Therefore, by combining the advantages of both of them, we prepared aromatic polyesters with high refractive index and stabilization. This study provides a route that can appropriately reduce Tg without loss of refractive index.
Effects of lubricant rheology and flow turbulence on the dynamic properties of hydrodynamic bearing
Authors: Soni Sandeep
Published: April 2024

The present numerical investigation, which takes into account the coexisted consequence of the turbulence domain and non-Newtonian flow rheology, predicts the dynamic properties of a finite hydrodynamic bearing. Under the proper flow boundary conditions, the turbulence (linear) and non-Newtonian hypotheses have revised the Continuity and Navier–Stokes equation. The finite element approach is acclimated to calculate the clearance extent of the finite hydrodynamic bearing using the Galerkin approach and a sturdy iteration strategy. The cylindrical coordinate's versions of continuity and momentum equations are bestowed for the lubricant field of the finite hydrodynamic bearing, postulating the turbulence domain and non-Newtonian flow rheology. Dynamic properties of a finite hydrodynamic bearing have been enumerated using cross-coupled and direct lubricant-film bearing coefficients, whirl ratio and critical mass at various eccentricity ratios for different ranges of Reynolds numbers and different values of flow behavior index of the non-Newtonian rheological model. In comparison to perfect turbulence and non-Newtonian rheological status, the mixed regime demonstrated improved properties. The direct and cross-coupled lubricant-film bearing coefficients are improved by 12.28% and 20.85% respectively while critical mass is enhanced by 20.55% at selected values of Reynolds number and power-law index. The proposed severe fluid film domain improves the stability of finite hydrodynamic bearings significantly.
Pharmacodynamic Interaction of Areca catechu with Gliclazide in Wistar Rats
Authors: Al-Omran Suliman Abdullah , S Dharmashree , KV Anil Kumar , Nagaraja Sreeharsha
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose

In alloxan-induced diabetic rats, this study sought to evaluate the hypoglycemic potential of the hydroalcoholic seed extract of Areca catechu, also referred to as areca nut, both as a stand-alone treatment and in combination with the diabetic drug gliclazide.

Materials and Methods

The hot percolation method was used to produce the hydroalcoholic seed extract of A. catechu. Rats were given alloxan monohydrate and developed type II diabetes. The hydroalcoholic seed extract of A. catechu (1000 mg/kg p.o.) alone or in different combinations of gliclazide (25 mg/kg p.o.) and A. catechu extract (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg p.o.) were administered to the six diabetic rats. Body weights and blood glucose levels were measured on days 7, 14, 21, and 28 of the treatment. On the 28th day, the kidney, liver, and pancreas underwent histological investigations in addition to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Results

Blood glucose levels were significantly lowered upon administration of A. catechu’s hydroalcoholic seed extract, both alone and in conjunction with gliclazide. Comparing the diabetic control group to the A. catechu extract-treated group, histopathological examinations showed that high amounts of the extract, either by itself or in conjunction with gliclazide, caused the active proliferation of pancreatic beta cells, protecting against damage to the liver and kidneys.

Conclusion

The hydroalcoholic seed extract of A. catechu showed promise as a monotherapy for controlling blood glucose levels, and as a co-administer for gliclazide, it showed signs of hypoglycemia. These results indicate A. catechu’s possible therapeutic benefit as an adjuvant diabetic treatment. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of action and evaluate its safety and effectiveness in clinical settings, more study is necessary.
Measuring the utility of brief psychological intervention in psychiatric hospitals: A call for change
Authors: Modini Matthew , Baillie Andrew
Published: April 2024

Objective

Despite the known importance of regularly monitoring progress when delivering psychological interventions, this is not mandated or seemingly even common practice on Australian inpatient psychiatric wards. Barriers for why this might be the case are described, an argument made to rise above them, and a call for research in this area is made.

Conclusions

Failure to find ways to collect, analyse and be transparent with data around brief inpatient psychological interventions can diminish treatment outcomes and leaves us open to criticism as a profession.
Experimental and damage model study of layered shale under different moisture contents
Authors: Xian-yin Qi , Dian-dong Geng , Ming-zhe Xu , Ting Ke
Published: April 2024

To investigate the mechanical properties and damage evolution law of layered shale under varying moisture contents, we conducted triaxial compression experiments on rock samples with different bedding angles and moisture levels. This study analyzed the variations in mechanical properties of layered shale under different conditions, and established a predicted model for elastic modulus based on different bedding angles and moisture content. Additionally, the damage constitutive model of layered shale was improved. The study revealed that shale’s mechanical properties display anisotropy, which is influenced by the bedding angles and moisture contents. The elastic modulus of the rock increases with the rise of bedding angle, exhibiting a ‘U’-shaped change. Conversely, the mechanical properties of rocks deteriorate, and their brittleness weakens with the increase in moisture content. When the confining pressure increased, the overall mechanical properties of shale were enhanced, and the influence of bedding on shale was weakened, but the deteriorating effect of water on rocks was hardly affected. Based on the above experiments, a predicted model of equivalent elastic modulus of shale considering the coupling effect of bedding and different moisture contents was proposed, which could effectively predict the elastic modulus of layered shale with different moisture content under different confining pressures. Furthermore, based on the predicted model of elastic modulus, an improved damage constitutive model of layered shale under triaxial loading was established, and the damage accumulation trend of layered shale was obtained, which showed an “S”-shaped change with strain. Under the coupling effect of bedding and different moisture contents, the damage of shale was advanced, but the accumulation rate of damage slowed down. With the increase of confining pressure, the influence of bedding and moisture content on the damage characteristics of shale decreased, and the damage curves under different conditions gradually tended to isotropy. The developed damage constitutive model for layered shale under different moisture contents provides theoretical support for the study of reservoir fracturing and wellbore stability.
‘I produce songs for her …. In this way, I gradually know her more. The more I know her, the more I like her’: Using Collins’ model of interactive ritual chains to study the case of virtual idol fandom in China
Authors: Chen Zirui , Skey Michael
Published: April 2024

In the last decade, virtual idols have become increasingly popular among young people in China with news reports estimating a fan-base of around 300 million and total industry revenues of over $35 billion in 2020 (Bloomberg, 2021). Despite these startling figures, there have been few empirical studies of virtual idol fandom. To address this lacuna, this paper explores the ways in which fans engage with the Chinese virtual idol Luo Tianyi and uses insights from Randall Collin’s (2004) work on Interactive Ritual Chains (IRC) to understand the relationship between digital fan practices and the generation of both emotional responses and a wider sense of solidarity Semi-structured interviews with fans, alongside digital participant observation, indicate the key role fans have to play in promoting their idol, notably when it comes to producing original content designed to raise her profile. It is these activities, in conjunction with gender differences, that are used to define hierarchies within the community, and point to the importance of adopting a more critical perspective in relation to Collins’ original work.
Independent association between IVC filter placement and VTE risk in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding and isolated distal DVT: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huang Ying , Luo Hailong , Liu Xin , Li Yanlin , Gong Jing
Published: April 2024

Background:

The placement of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters often emerges as an alternative preventative measure against pulmonary embolism in patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and isolated distal deep vein thrombosis (DVT). We aimed to investigate the association of IVC filter placement and the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) recurrence in this patient population.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study including 450 patients with upper GI bleeding and isolated distal DVT. Propensity score matching using logistic regression was conducted to mitigate potential selection bias. Logistic regression models and additional sensitivity analyses were conducted to estimate the association between IVC filter implantation and VTE recurrence. Interaction and stratified analyses were also performed according to the background covariates.

Results:

Patients who underwent IVC filter placement were significantly younger than patients in the surveillance group (55.8 ± 9.0 vs 58.4 ± 11.2 years, p = 0.034). Patients in the IVC filter group demonstrated a higher distal thrombus burden. The VTE recurrence composite was significantly higher in patients who underwent IVC filter placement (44.1% [45/102] vs 25% [87/348], p < 0.001). Unmatched crude logistic regression analysis identified a significant association between IVC filter placement and VTE recurrence composite (OR = 2.37; 95% CI, 1.50–3.75). Sensitivity analyses yielded congruent outcomes.

Conclusion:

This study revealed an increased risk of VTE recurrence among patients receiving IVC filter placement, suggesting that IVC filter placement may not be suitable as a primary treatment for patients with upper GI bleeding and isolated distal DVT.
Research on the creation of new UD laminates and its ballistic performance using CSC aramid yarns via experiment and FEA analysis
Authors: Yang Dan , Zhu Kai , Liu Shengdong , Fei Fan , Li Jinchun , Chen Xiaogang
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a new type of core-spun compound aramid yarn has been applied in the construction of UD fabric to investigate if the ballistic performance of the whole fabric could be positively influenced. Three types of fabrics (Fa, Fb and Fc) herein have been developed. Fa is the traditional type of UD fabric with two layers laying at the angle of 0°/90°. Fb is made by adding new CSC aramid yarns inside of Fa at the angle of 0°/90°. Fc is further developed from Fb via changing yarn-ply directions as 45°/-45°, to analyze if the yarn-ply directions would influence on the ballistic performance of new UD fabric. The result is quite positive, as it shows that Fb and Fc have apparent energy absorption capability than Fa, and Fc is the best. This indicates that the introduction of core-spun compound aramid yarns could indeed improve the ballistic performance of UD fabric, and the yarn-ply direction of 45°/-45° is better than that of 0°/90° to absorb more energy. This research has been investigated with the assistance of both the ballistic test and the FEA model. Energy absorption and penetration resistance mechanism are the two major aspects to analyze to reflect the ballistic performance of these fabrics.
Using Mixed Methods to Evaluate Modified Schema-Based Instruction in General Education Classrooms
Authors: Bowman Jessica A. , McDonnell John , Karp Karen , Coleman Olivia F. , Clifton Carrie , Conradi Lyndsey Aiono , Ryan Joanna , Farrell Michael
Published: April 2024

In this convergent mixed methods design study, single-subject and qualitative data were collected concurrently to provide an in-depth picture of the impact of a modified schema-based instructional intervention. The intervention was delivered using instructional trials embedded across general education math lessons and a modified concrete-semi-concrete-abstract instructional sequence. This study investigated the impact of the intervention on the word-problem-solving, strategy use, and concept acquisition of three students with extensive support needs. The paraprofessional-delivered intervention was implemented in elementary general education mathematics classrooms using embedded instruction and focused on teaching students to solve addition and subtraction word-problems. Single-subject data indicated that all three students learned to solve word-problems given concrete materials but needed more time to master the use of semi concrete supports. Qualitative data indicated that students used taught and untaught strategies to solve word-problems, and mastered addition word-problems before subtraction when they were taught simultaneously. Data were integrated in narrative format to explore how strategy use and concept acquisition related to student word-problem-solving performance. Limitations and implications for research are discussed.