bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulation of Lock-In Phenomenon of Cylinder-Elastic Beam Model Based on CFD-FEM Fluid-Structure Interaction Method
Authors: Gu Yu , Gu Xiangnan , Xu Yingbo , Hong Fangwen
Published: January 2025

In this work, taking the fixed structure of rigid cylinder and elastic beam as the research object, the lock-in phenomena in vortex induced vibration of an elastic beam induced has been simulated based on the separated two way fluid solid interaction analysis method. The CFD method is used to calculate the flow field, and the elastic beam displacement is solved by the finite element method. The coupling is realized by transferring fluid force and structural displacement at the interface of fluid–solid domain, and the deformation updating of the euler mesh of the flow field is realized based on the dynamic mesh technology. According to the calculation results, lock-in phenomena occurs in the flow velocity range of 0.5–0.55 m/s, and the vortex shedding frequency remains unchanged and close to the second natural frequency of the elastic beam. At the velocity range, the vibration response of the free end of the elastic beam decreases with the increase of the flow velocity, which is in line with the structural resonance characteristics in the lock-in phenomena.
Dynamic Simulation of a Suspension Span Frame in a Wire Breaking Accident
Authors: Wang Peng , Xia Yang , Liu Chengzhi , Lei Qingkun , Wu Rui , Li Ting , Zhang Heng , Xiao Qingbiao
Published: January 2025

The suspension span frame is a structure that protects the straddled object during the construction of a transmission line. When the wire breaks, it will impact the suspension span frame. In this paper, according to the stress characteristics of the suspension span frame, a shape-finding method of the suspension span frame based on ANSYS is proposed. On the basis of determining the geometry of suspension span frame with engineering parameters, the dynamic simulation of wire impact suspension span frame is completed. The analysis results show that the shape-finding method proposed can accurately and quickly obtain the shape of the suspension span frame. The displacement and internal force of the suspended span frame under accident condition can be obtained by dynamic simulation method.
Dynamic Experimental Study of Heavy Haul Train on Mountain Railway
Authors: Chen Chunjun , Guan Junping
Published: January 2025

Compared with the main trunk line of heavy haul railway, the railway line in mountain area often has a larger slope and contains a large number of small radius curves, which makes the safety of train operation more threatened. Based on the actual engineering demand of a mountain railway planning to run 5000 tons heavy duty train to increase the railway capacity, a field test was carried out to test the data of wheel-rail force when train passed through. Through mathematical statistical analysis, the variation rule of each dynamic index and the running safety of each locomotive and vehicle under different running speed and curve radius are analyzed. The result of research shows that the dynamic indexes of locomotive and vehicle under different working conditions are all within the safety limit, among which the wheel load reduction rate and the vertical force of wheel and rail have a large margin compared with the safety limit, while the lateral force of wheel and the derailment coefficient have a relatively small safety margin, especially the derailment coefficient. The research results can provide data support for the smooth operation of 5000t heavy-haul train in the mountainous area.
Stability with Regard to Partial Variables of Stochastic Reaction–Diffusion Systems Driven by G-Brownian Motion
Authors: Gou Jinhao , Yang Jun , Wang Yaqian , Xu Shiqiang
Published: January 2025

In this article, we investigate the

$$p$$

p

-th moment exponential stability (

$$p$$

p

-th ES) of stochastic reaction–diffusion systems driven by G-Brownian motion (G-SRDSs) with respect to (w.r.t.) partial variables by utilizing the G-Lyapunov techniques and G-Itô's formula. And the sufficient conditions are established to guarantee the

$$p$$

p

-th ES of G-SRDSs w.r.t. partial variables. Additionally, a numerical simulation example is given to verify of the theoretical result.
A Fusion Modeling Method for Ball Screw Feed System of Machine Tool
Authors: Huang Dehai , Duan Jihang , Yang Jianzhong , Chen Jihong , Xu Guangda
Published: January 2025

The feed system is an important part of the CNC machine tool, and its performance directly affects the machining quality. Establishing an accurate model is the key to achieving feed system servo performance optimization and error compensation. In this paper, a fusion modeling method is proposed for the problems of low accuracy and difficulty in identifying stiffness and damping in the traditional lumped mass modeling method. The proposed method first establishes a rigid model without stiffness and damping, then uses a data-driven model to model the unmodeled dynamics, and finally connects the rigid model and the data-driven model in series. The method simplifies the lumped mass model, avoids the problem that the stiffness and damping are difficult to identify, and the fusion of the data-driven model significantly improves the prediction accuracy of the model. The experimental results show that the fused model has higher prediction accuracy for the frequency response characteristics and displacement of the feed system.
Simulation of the Mixing Performance of an Optimized Air Injector
Authors: Xie Jiaqiang , Kuang Wei
Published: January 2025

The trim air system is an important system for realizing the temperature control of the flight deck and passenger cabin of commercial aircraft. The trim air duct is designed to bleed the high-temperature air to mix the cold air from the upstream of the refrigeration components in order to satisfy the independent temperature requirements of each area of the flight deck and passenger cabin. If the cold air and hot air mixing situation was poor, downstream temperature sensor layout location there is still a more serious hot and cold air stratification, the measured value is more difficult to reflect the average temperature of the mixed air, thus affecting the accuracy of the air conditioning system temperature regulation. In order to improve the mixing efficiency of the trim hot bleed air and ventilation air, this paper proposes an optimized trim air injector based on typical configuration, then models and calculates two configurations of the trim injector using three-dimensional simulation to obtain the fluid flow and temperature distribution characteristics under different conditions. In this paper, the MAX temperature difference, the Surface standard deviation of temperature, the Surface uniformity of temperature and other parameters are also utilized to model and calculate the air flow and temperature distribution characteristics of the two configurations of the trim injector. The mixing effects of the two trim injectors were analyzed and evaluated. The results show that, after optimization, the radial high-speed thermal jet can effectively improve the perturbation and mixing between the hot and cold fluids after the hot bleed air passes through the inflow nozzle; compared with the typical configuration, the optimized configuration has a lower maximum temperature difference of about 67% and a lower standard deviation of temperature of 71% in each cross-section. The surface temperature uniformity coefficient of the optimized configuration is closer to 1 in each cross-section, and the temperature stratification effect and mixing effect are better than that of the typical configuration.
Synergistic combination of orally available safe-in-man pleconaril, AG7404, and mindeudesivir inhibits enterovirus infections in human cell and organoid cultures
Authors: Ravlo Erlend , Ianevski Aleksandr , Schjølberg Jørn-Ove , Solvang Vanessa , Dumaru Rabina , Lysvand Hilde , Hankinson Jacqueline , Vähä-Koskela Markus , Vainionpää Sanna , Varhe Anni , Seppänen Hanna , Smura Teemu , Wang Xin , Wang Yining , Li Pengfei , Pan Qiuwei , Dahl-Jorgensen Knut , Krogvold Lars , Kamyshnyi Oleksandr , Nilsen Hans-Johnny Schjelderup , Haugen Inger Johanne , Høyer Erling , Afset Jan Egil , Oksenych Valentyn , Galabov Angel S. , Stoyanova Adelina , Lam Vivian , van Loon Barbara , Lulla Valeria , Bjørås Magnar , Kainov Denis E.
Published: January 2025

Enteroviruses can infect various human organs, causing diseases such as meningitis, the common cold, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, myocarditis, pancreatitis, hepatitis, poliomyelitis, sepsis, and type 1 diabetes. Currently, there are no approved treatments for enterovirus infections. In this study, we identified a synergistic combination of orally available, safe-in-man pleconaril, AG7404, and mindeudesivir, that at non-toxic concentrations effectively inhibited enterovirus replication in human cell and organoid cultures. Importantly, the cocktail did not alter glucose and insulin levels in the culture medium of pancreatic β-cells and preserved the contraction rhythm of infected heart organoids. These findings highlight a promising drug cocktail for further preclinical studies and clinical trials targeting a broad range of enterovirus-mediated diseases.
PARP12-mediated ADP-ribosylation contributes to breast cancer cell fate by regulating AKT activation and DNA-damage response
Authors: Pavithran Anupama , Matarese Maria , Morone Barbara , Filograna Angela , Monte Matteo Lo , Dathan Nina Alayne , Corda Daniela , Grimaldi Giovanna
Published: January 2025

Breast cancer represents the primary cause of death of women under 65 in developed countries, due to the acquisition of multiple drug resistance mechanisms. The PI3K/AKT pathway is one of the major regulating mechanisms altered during the development of endocrine resistance and inhibition of steps in this signalling pathway are adopted as a key strategy to overcome this issue. ADP-ribosylation is a post-translational modification catalysed by PARP enzymes that regulates essential cellular processes, often altered in diseases. PARP12, a member of this family, has been associated with the onset of drug resistance in oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancers, making this enzyme a promising drug target. The molecular basis underlying its involvement in the acquisition of resistance are unknown to date. Here, we demonstrate that PARP12-mediated mono-ADP-ribosylation of AKT is required for AKT activation whilst the absence of PARP12 leads to apoptosis induction in a subset of oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells. Our data show that transcriptional inhibition of PARP12 correlates with an increased DNA-damage induction, mirrored by augmented p53 nuclear localisation and enhanced p53-AKT interaction. Under these conditions, AKT is functionally incompetent towards its downstream targets FOXO, hence favouring cell death. This is achieved by increasing protein levels of the FOXO1 transcription factor, that in turn activates the apoptotic cascade. Overall, we show a novel regulation step of AKT activation and apoptosis relying on PARP12-mediated mono-ADP-ribosylation and propose PARP12 as a potential pharmacological target to be exploited as an innovative therapeutical strategy to overcome endocrine resistance.
Unveiling the genetic architecture of barley embryo: QTL mapping, candidate genes identification and its relationship with kernel size and early vigour
Authors: Chen Xiaoxia , Su Zhouyang , Zheng Yunpu , Li Cong , Ma Jun , Ma Jian , Shi Fusun , Hu Haiyan , Liu Chunji , Zheng Zhi
Published: January 2025

Keymessage

In this first QTL mapping study of embryo size in barley, novel and stable QTL were identified and candidate genes underlying a significant locus independent of kernel size were identified based on orthologous analysis and comparison of the whole-genome assemblies for both parental genotypes of the mapping population.

Embryo, also known as germ, in cereal grains plays a crucial role in plant development. The embryo accounts for only a small portion of grain weight but it is rich in nutrients. Larger embryo translates to a more nutritious grain and larger store of energy reserves, which can benefit seed germination and seedling establishment. However, reports on quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting embryo size in barley is rare. To understand the genetic basis of embryo size in barley, a population consisting of 201 F9 recombination inbred lines (RILs) was assessed in four environments. Three regions affecting various characteristics of embryo size including embryo length (EL), embryo width (EW) and embryo area (EA) were consistently identified. They located on chromosomes 2H, 4H and 7H, respectively. Among them, the QTL on 7H was not significantly affected by kernel size. Phenotypic variances explained by this QTL for EL, EW and EA were 11.8%, 9.3% and 12.7%, respectively. Taken advantage of the available genomic assemblies of the two parental genotypes, candidate genes for this locus on 7H were identified. In addition, significant correlations between embryo size and early vigour and kernel traits were detected. To our knowledge, the present study is for the first time reporting QTL conferring embryo size by directly measuring the characteristics as quantitative trait in barley, which would broaden our understanding of the genetic basis of barley embryo size and offer valuable targets for future breeding programmes.
Genomic selection shows improved expected genetic gain over phenotypic selection of agronomic traits in allotetraploid white clover
Authors: Ehoche O. Grace , Arojju Sai Krishna , Jahufer M. Z. Zulfi , Jauregui Ruy , Larking Anna C. , Cousins Greig , Tate Jennifer A. , Lockhart Peter J. , Griffiths Andrew G.
Published: January 2025

Key message

Genomic selection using white clover multi-year-multi-site data showed predicted genetic gains through integrating among-half-sibling-family phenotypic selection and within-family genomic selection were up to 89% greater than half-sibling-family phenotypic selection alone.

Genomic selection, an effective breeding tool used widely in plants and animals for improving low-heritability traits, has only recently been applied to forages. We explored the feasibility of implementing genomic selection in white clover (
Trifolium repens
L.), a key forage legume which has shown limited genetic improvement in dry matter yield (DMY) and persistence traits. We used data from a training population comprising 200 half-sibling (HS) families evaluated in a cattle-grazed field trial across three years and two locations. Combining phenotype and genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data, we assessed different two-stage genomic prediction models, including KGD-GBLUP developed for low-depth GBS data, on DMY, growth score, leaf size and stolon traits. Predictive abilities were similar among the models, ranging from −0.17 to 0.44 across traits, and remained stable for most traits when reducing model input to 100–120 HS families and 5500 markers, suggesting genomic selection is viable with fewer resources. Incorporating a correlated trait with a primary trait in multi-trait prediction models increased predictive ability by 28–124%. Deterministic modelling showed integrating among-HS-family phenotypic selection and within-family genomic selection at different selection pressures estimated up to 89% DMY genetic gain compared to phenotypic selection alone, despite a modest predictive ability of 0.3. This study demonstrates the potential benefits of combining genomic and phenotypic selection to boost genetic gains in white clover. Using cost-effective GBS paired with a prediction model optimized for low read-depth data, the approach can achieve prediction accuracies comparable to traditional models, providing a viable path for implementing genomic selection in white clover.
Certified reference materials for GMO analysis—more than 25 years of GMO CRM production at EC JRC
Authors: Trapmann Stefanie , Linsinger Thomas P. J. , Koeber Robert
Published: January 2025

Certified reference materials (CRMs) play a crucial role in ensuring the quality of analytical measurements. Particularly, the EU labelling legislation on genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and feed products explicitly requires CRMs for its implementation. The CRMs are used to calibrate and control the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method and support official control laboratories, such as National Reference Laboratories (NRLs), in maintaining their ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation. The Joint Research Centre of the European Commission (EC JRC) is specialized in the production of reference materials and has been producing GMO CRMs since 1998. Together with a validated event-specific qPCR method, these GMO CRMs form the EU reference system for the quantification of EU-authorized GMO events in food and feed products and ensure a common GMO labelling threshold. This article gives a retrospective view on the more than 25 years of GMO CRM production at JRC. It describes requirements for GMO CRMs in view of an EU market authorization under (EC) No. 1829/2003. The evolution and major improvements of the production of GMO CRMs at JRC are summarized as well as the current understanding of the EU’s GMO reference system for GMO quantification and its impact on commutability. It provides insights into GMO CRM sales and their worldwide distribution. This information may be useful for policymakers and researchers in understanding the current EU GMO measurement landscape and to anticipate possible future demands related to GMO events based on new genomic techniques (NGTs).
An analytic invariant of $G_{2}$ manifolds
Authors: Crowley Diarmuid , Goette Sebastian , Nordström Johannes
Published: January 2025

We prove that the moduli space of holonomy

$G_{2}$

G
2

-metrics on a closed 7-manifold can be disconnected by presenting a number of explicit examples. We detect different connected components of the

$G_{2}$

G
2

-moduli space by defining an analytic refinement

$\bar{\nu }(M, g) \in \mathbb{Z}$

ν
¯

(
M
,
g
)
∈
Z

of the defect invariant 

$\nu (M,\varphi )\in \mathbb{Z}/48$

ν
(
M
,
φ
)
∈
Z
/
48

of

$G_{2}$

G
2

-structures 

$\varphi $

φ

on a closed 7-manifold 

$M$

M

introduced by the first and third authors. The

$\bar{\nu }$

ν
¯

-invariant is defined using

$\eta $

η

-invariants and Mathai-Quillen currents on 

$M$

M

and we compute it for twisted connected sums à la Kovalev, Corti-Haskins-Nordström-Pacini and extra-twisted connected sums as constructed by the second and third authors. In particular, we find examples of 

$G_{2}$

G
2

-holonomy metrics in different components of the moduli space where the associated

$G_{2}$

G
2

-structures are homotopic and other examples where they are not.
Metanephric stromal tumor as a rare differential diagnosis of a renal mass in children – a case report
Authors: Riese Ronja , Veldhoen Simon , Metz Corona , Scale Carolin
Published: January 2025

This report presents the case of a benign metanephric stromal tumor that occurred in the kidney of a 5-year-old boy and in which differentiation from a nephroblastoma was successful. Radiological assessment played the decisive role in this case, as the low initial volume, a high apparent diffusion coefficient, and lack of rapid tumor growth were considered atypical for a nephroblastoma. The boy underwent successful kidney-preserving resection without neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and intraoperative contrast-enhanced ultrasound examination helped to accurately define the tumor margins. The case is reported to provide information on the radiological picture of pediatric metanephric stromal tumor.
Planning an airport shuttle network with air taxis using choice-based optimization
Authors: Hagspihl Thomas , Kolisch Rainer , Schiffels Sebastian
Published: January 2025

Airports and airlines share a common interest in providing passengers with fast and convenient access to airports. With the introduction of air taxis as a new means of transport, the opportunity will soon emerge to introduce air taxi shuttle services to airports. In this context, for each individual airport the question arises where the facilities for landing, ground handling and take-off, also called vertiports, should be located in the area surrounding the airport. We formulate the problem as a hub location problem with multiple allocation, with the objective to maximize the number of passengers who choose to reach the airport by air taxi. In our model, we explicitly incorporate passengers’ choice behavior with respect to available means of transport using a multinomial logit model. We linearize the problem and provide guidance on the steps needed to use the model in practice. In an extensive case study, we apply the model to real data for Munich Airport, perform a stated preference study to parameterize the multinomial logit model, suggest locations for vertiports throughout Bavaria as a result, and investigate to what extent the introduction of air taxi shuttle flights can reduce travel times to Munich Airport.
Dietary and competition effects on life history attributes of Chrysomya megacephala and Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in south-west Europe
Authors: Martínez-Sánchez A. , Ivorra T. , Velásquez Y. , Cerdá-Ortega L. , Ibáñez C. , Rojo S.
Published: January 2025

The range of the oriental latrine fly (Chrysomya megacephala) is currently expanding. It coexists with another blowfly with a similar ecology, the green bottle fly (Lucilia sericata), one of the most abundant species in carrion during warm months. It is essential to understand the influence of temperature, larval substrate type, and larval competition on the development rates of these necrophagous calliphorids to evaluate the role and the adaptation of C. megacephala in the ecosystems, and on the necrophagous Diptera community. Moreover, due to the forensic importance of both species, biological data are need for forensic purposes in south-west Europe. This study represents the first on the biology of C. megacephala in Europe, and of L. sericata in Spain. We performed a field experiment in Alicante province (south-east Spain) to analyse the monthly abundance of both species in natural conditions, and three lab rearing experiments involving both species to evaluate (i) development at constant temperatures, (ii) the growth of larvae and pupae on different substrates, and (iii) coexistence in pure and mixed cultures under controlled abiotic conditions. The results allowed us to analyse the biological differences between both species, and their effects on the forensic entomology application.
Uncomplicated pharyngitis due to family transmission of hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Gray Hannah K. , Malhotra Sanchi , Gonzalez-Ferrer Shekina , Whitehill Gregory D. , Chalmers Alisa C. , Yang Shangxin
Published: January 2025

We describe two cases of uncomplicated pharyngitis caused by hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) in a family, initially in an immunocompetent adolescent, followed by possible household spread resulting in similar presentations in the patient’s parent. Genomic analysis confirmed hvKp from the two cases were genetically identical and typed as K2-ST3252. Nasopharyngeal carriage and respiratory secretion/droplet may play an important yet underrecognized role in the transmission of hvKp. Enhancing routine screening for hvKp in the upper respiratory culture, followed by genotyping provides an effective pathway for early diagnosis.
The efficacy of fractional CO2 laser with or without triamcinolone acetonide or 5-fluorouracil in the treatment of early postburn hypertrophic scars
Authors: Younes Bassel , Mandour Elsayed , Soliman Hashish Mohammed , Gamal Shoukr Tarek
Published: January 2025

Hypertrophic scars (HTSs) are the result of an abnormal healing process resulting from burns and other severe traumas. The symptoms of that condition include skin irritation, discomfort, and itching. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of fractional carbon dioxide (CO2) laser therapy alone or with triamcinolone or 5-fluorouracil (FU) in the treatment of early post-burn hypertrophic scars (HTSs) that develop during the first 6 months after the injury. A prospective, randomized, single-blind comparative study was conducted on 30 patients aged 16–65 with hypertrophic scars (HTS) resulting from burns. Patients had no prior treatment for their scars. We randomly assigned participants to one of three groups: Group A received fractional CO2 laser therapy alone, Group B received fractional CO2 laser therapy with topical 5-fluorouracil, and Group C received fractional CO2 laser therapy with topical triamcinolone acetonide. All treatment groups showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) in overall scar severity and height. Patients in Group C (fractional CO2 laser + triamcinolone) demonstrated significant improvements in scar pliability, height, and pigmentation (p < 0.05). In contrast, patients in Group B (fractional CO2 laser + 5-FU) showed significant reductions in scar vascularity, pliability, and height following treatment (p < 0.05). While all groups reported minor changes in pain and itching, there were no significant differences in these symptoms between Group B and Group C. HTSs of this trial revealed reductions in overall scar surface area and thickness and improvement of pliability and pigmentation; however, there was not statistically significant difference between the effect of 5-fluorouracil and triamcinolone acetonide (TAC), suggesting that neither drug offers better efficacy over the other. Level I, singleblinded randomized control study.
The involvement of orexin-1 receptors in modulation of feeding and anxiety-like behavior in rats with complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced temporomandibular joint disorder
Authors: Hosaini Mojtaba , Abbasnejad Mehdi , Kooshki Razieh , Esmaeili-Mahani Saeed , Raoof Maryam , Naderi Reyhaneh , Aarab Ghizlane , Lobbezoo Frank
Published: January 2025

Orexin-A (OXA), a neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus, is recognized for its role in modulating orofacial nociception and regulating feeding behaviors, as well as its impact on psychophysiological responses. This study investigated the role of orexin-1 receptors (OX1R) in modulating nociceptive behaviors induced by noxious stimulation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and the associated changes in mood and feeding behaviors in rats with complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Bilateral cannulation of the lateral ventricles was performed in rats. To induce nociception, CFA was injected unilaterally into the left TMJ of the rats. Nociceptive behaviors were assessed using the hot plate and tail flick tests, while anxiety-like behavior and food intake were evaluated using an elevated plus maze (EPM) and a food preference device, respectively. The results demonstrated a significant increase in nociceptive scores and anxiety-like behaviors, along with reductions in water and food consumption following CFA injection. However, post-treatment with OXA at concentrations of 50 and 100 pM/rat significantly decreased thermal nociceptive scores, alleviated anxiety-like behavior, and increased water and food intake. These beneficial effects were reversed when OXA was co-administered with SB-334867 (40 nM/rat), an OX1R antagonist. Collectively, our findings suggest that OX1R signaling plays a role in the modulation of anxiety-like behavior and abnormalities in food intake in CFA-treated rats. Understanding the involvement of OXA and its receptors in CFA-induced TMJ nociception and behavioral changes may pave the way for potential therapeutic interventions targeting OX1R signaling in the management of TMD-associated symptoms.
Finding our place in public scholarship
Authors: Inwood Shoshanah
Published: January 2025

In her 2024 Agriculture, Food & Human Values Society (AFHVS) Presidential Adress, Shoshanah Inwood reflects on our role as researchers, teachers, practitioners, and as engaged citizens in public scholarship, and the role of our Agriculture Food and Human Values Society in public scholarship. Inwood first defines public scholarship and shares how her research examining the connections between farm viability and access to affordable quality health insurance and childcare has led to proposed new policy in the U.S. Farm Bill. The address reflects on strategies for surviving the perils of public scholarship, and the role AFHVS as a society has in nurturing and supporting public scholarship.
A Population-Based Analysis of Birth Rates and Placement Patterns Among Care-Experienced Young Women in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Gill Amy , Luu Betty
Published: January 2025

International research has consistently identified that care-experienced young women are disproportionately likely to become mothers at an early age and benefit from the availability of comprehensive services and supports. This study addresses a paucity of prevalence data in the Australian context by identifying and describing the population of young mothers, aged 15–24, who spent time in out-of-home care (OOHC) in New South Wales between 2009 and 2019. It also makes a novel contribution to the literature by identifying placement patterns during and after first pregnancies. Main findings include that care-experienced young women are three times more likely to give birth than their peers in the majority population and report high rates of smoking during pregnancy and receipt of fewer than the recommended number of prenatal health care visits. The findings also indicate that pathways into motherhood from OOHC are often marked by instability and uncertainty, consisting of frequent perinatal placement changes and exits from OOHC during pregnancy. This indicates that targeted interventions are needed to promote placement stability and supported transitions from OOHC to enhance the health and well-being of care-experienced young mothers and their babies. Directions for future research include the identification of variables associated with perinatal placement stability, consistent healthcare usage, and smoking cessation.
When the Internet Gets Under Our Skin: Reassessing Consumer Law and Policy in a Society of Cyborgs
Authors: Coldron Benjamin Clubbs , La Diega Guido Noto , Twigg-Flesner Christian , Busch Christoph , Stolte Tabea , de Vries Marc-Oliver
Published: January 2025

In this article, the authors identify and explore the phenomenon of consumer cyborgification and ask what the legal and ethical implications of this emerging trend are. They consider whether fundamental legal principles, concepts, and assumptions in various EU acts and directives are adequate to address these challenges or whether these need to be reassessed in light of novel forms of vulnerability. They also ask what alternatives might be suggested. In the era of the consumer Internet of Things (IoT), consumer expectations of privacy, security, and durability are changing. While the consumer uses of the IoT often revolve around improving efficiency (e.g., of the body, the home, the car) and enhancing experiences through datafication of our bodies and environments and personalization of services and interfaces, the power of IoT companies to influence consumer behaviours and preferences is increasing in part because the hybridization of humans and machines. Cyborgification allows our behaviours to be individually and continuously monitored and nudged in real time. Our bodies and minds are reflected back at us through data, shaping the narratives we tell about ourselves and our surroundings, and this is creating new lifeworlds and shaping our preferences, roles, and identities. This presents novel benefits, as well as risks in the potential exploitation of novel vulnerabilities. With technology under the skin, both metaphorically (in relation to products that become a sensory accessory to the body and influence the perception and physical reality of one’s body and lifeworld) and literally (in the form of microchips, cybernetic implants, and biometric sensors and actuators), cyborg consumers are more vulnerable to manipulative practices, unfair contractual terms, automated decision-making, and to privacy and security breaches. Cyborg consumers are therefore more susceptible to damage, financial and physical, caused by defective products, low-quality services, and lax cybersecurity. Law, policy, and practice must go further than merely enhancing transparency and consent processes and prohibit practices and business models that are premised on manipulating the need to anticipate and manage the working of technologies under the skin, i.e., that which undermines consumer and public interests systematically. The law needs to be agile and responsive to the changes the IoT has established in the consumer–producer relationship. Consumer laws, including the contractual/consenting process itself, must be reviewed and reimagined to ensure more robust protections.
Integrating rainwater harvesting and organic soil amendment to enhance crop yield and soil nutrients in agroforestry
Authors: Debebe Yalembrhan , Otterpohl Ralf , Birhane Emiru
Published: January 2025

More than 90% of rainfed croplands in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) are severely affected by highly intermittent rainfall and frequent drought limiting crop productivity in the region. Besides, 27.1% of the population in SSA are currently food insecure and this is likely to increase with the current rapid population growth in the region. Soil erosion and water scarcity remain to be the core problem affecting agricultural productivity of smallholder farming. In the current study, we analysed rainwater harvesting assisted small-scale agroforestry system in order to mitigate both soil erosion and water scarcity issues simultaneously. The system included in-situ rainwater harvesting, soil organic amendment (raw poultry litter, poultry litter biochar, wood ash) and an agroforestry system (AFS) containing maize, barley- Eucalyptus globulus all intercropped in a holistic approach. The effect was evaluated on selected soil parameters and crop yield in a field experiment on a completely randomized design. The treatments were poultry litter (PWAFS), poultry litter biochar (BWAFS) wood ash (AWAFS) with supplementary irrigation (WAFS) and agroforestry system AFS (control). The first three treatments contained poultry litter, poultry litter biochar and wood ash along with rainwater harvesting respectively while the fourth treatment contained only rainwater harvesting. Besides, a control plot-AFS was assigned with neither rainwater harvesting nor soil organic resources. The result indicated that BWAFS increased the pH by 19.4% followed by AWAFS and PWAFS (9%). Maximum and minimum SOM (2.26%, 1.21%) were observed under BWAFS and the control (AFS) respectively. BWAFS significantly increased Av.P by 78.1% while WAFS increased by 40% compared to the control. Similarly, BWAFS and PWAFS had significant effect on maize yield with increase by 74% and 36% respectively. The study concluded that integrating rainwater harvesting and soil amendment with agroforestry systems can enhance crop yield and soil nutrient levels. Therefore, such agricultural practices should be adopted by smallholder farmers in areas with limited water and nutrients levels.
Religious Coping in Parents of Children with Down Syndrome: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Çaksen Hüseyin
Published: January 2025

Having a child with Down syndrome (DS) is stressful for families. Social, physical, economic and emotional difficulties are the most challenging stressors for parents of children with DS. Therefore, parents who have children with DS have used various types of coping strategies. This systematic review investigates religious coping in parents of children with DS to synthesize what is known of the literature regarding religious coping among parents of children with DS. Pubmed and Scopus databases were searched with no restriction on language and the year of publication. Additionally, manual searches of the retrieved articles’ references were performed. Forty-four original studies published between 2000 and 2023 were included in the review. No study on the subject was found in either Pubmed or Scopus before 2000. Most studies were conducted in USA 7 (15.9%), Egypt 7 (15.9%), and Türkiye 6 (13.6%). In the studies, the total number of participants was 4266, range between 8 and 530 (median 55.5). The ethnic origins of the participants were very diverse and the studies included participants from many cultures around the world. Based on the studies, we identified seven themes that represented the main stressors encountered by parents/caregivers of children with DS: “information deficits,” “child caregiving burdens,” “familial difficulties,” “financial difficulties,” “challenges related to social and professional support,” “society’s misconceptions,” and “worries about the future.” The most commonly (n = 12, [27.2%]) used coping scale was coping orientation to problems experienced. Religious coping was the coping strategy most frequently used by participants in 36 (81.8%) studies. Religion, spirituality, and belief in Allah (God) were of central importance for most participants in most of the studies. Most parents reported that belief in Allah (God) encouraged them to accept the diagnosis of DS and feel better and become stronger; provided improvements in the lives of families and the necessary resources to face their difficulties; played a fundamental role in adaptation with the conditions of their children with DS; brought them peace of mind and a sense of hope; and motivated them to keep on moving forward. In conclusion, religion plays an important role in the lives of most parents of children with DS. Religious coping has been used by parents of children with DS in many cultures around the world, regardless of religion, race, or ethnicity. Belief in Allah (God), belief in fate and belief in the afterlife, provided physical, mental and psychosocial relief for most parents of children with DS.
Pharmacist-led deprescribing of cardiovascular and diabetes medication within a clinical medication review: the LeMON study (Less Medicines in Older Patients in the Netherlands), a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Abou Jamila , Elders Petra J. M. , Huijts Danielle , van Marum Rob , Hugtenburg Jacqueline
Published: January 2025

Background

Deprescribing inappropriate cardiovascular and antidiabetic medication has been shown to be feasible and safe. Healthcare providers often perceive the deprescribing of cardiovascular and antidiabetic medication as a challenge and therefore it is still not widely implemented in daily practice.

Aim

The aim was to assess whether training focused on conducting a deprescribing-oriented clinical medication review (CMR) results in a reduction of the inappropriate use of cardiovascular and antidiabetic medicines.

Method

A cluster randomized controlled trial involving 20 community pharmacists, who conducted a clinical medication review in 10 patients. The intervention group received training on deprescribing. Patients 70 years or older with polypharmacy having a systolic blood pressure below 140 mmHg and using antihypertensive medication and/or an HbA1c level below 54 mmol/mol and using antidiabetic medication, were included. Follow-up took place within 4 weeks (T1) and after 3 months (T2). The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with one or more cardiovascular and antidiabetic medicine deprescribed within 3 months after the CMR (T2).

Results

A total of 71 patients in the intervention group and 69 patients in the control group were included. At T2, 32% of patients in the intervention group and 26% in the control group (OR 1.4, CI 0.65–2.82, p = 0.413) had one or more cardiovascular or antidiabetic medicines discontinued. Regarding any medication, these percentages were 51% and 36%, (OR 1.8, CI 0.92–3.56, p = 0.085) respectively.

Conclusion

Increased awareness and ability of community pharmacists to deprescribe medication and use of general practitioners’ data, led community pharmacists and general practitioners to successfully conduct a more deprescribing-focused CMR in daily practice. Further research is needed to assess the necessity of additional training to optimize the deprescribing of cardiovascular and antidiabetic medication.

The study was registered at The Netherlands Trial Register (registration no: NL8082).
Anthropogenic and Hydroclimatic Drivers of Livelihood Vulnerability in Wetland Communities: A Geospatial and Pragmatic Assessment
Authors: Imdad Kashif , Sahana Mehebub , Gautam Ouseen , Chaudhary Archana , Misra Shubhi , Dwivedi Sudha , Ahmed Rayees
Published: January 2025

Over the last few decades, the degradation of wetlands has significantly contributed to the decline in rural sustainability and the exacerbation of livelihood losses, particularly pronounced among wetland communities in developing nations. This paper employs a pragmatic approach and geospatial modelling to scrutinise the vulnerabilities in the livelihoods of these wetland communities. The primary focus of the study is to comprehensively analyse the ramifications of climate variability, natural disasters, alterations in wetland hydrology, diminishing fish diversity, sanitation concerns, anthropogenic pressures, and infrastructural development on the livelihoods of these communities. Along with a field observation-based pragmatic approach, geospatial techniques, Fragstat modelling, and water quality analysis, methods were employed in a mixed methods analysis. A Multi Criteria Decision Making Approach (MCDMA) was adopted to quantify the final composite rank of the Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI). In our mixed methods approach, we utilised qualitative interventions such as focus group discussions (FGD) to understand the complex issue of livelihood vulnerability of wetland communities. Our analysis revealed that the vulnerability of wetland communities has been increasing due to anthropogenic pressures. To maintain the stability of the livelihoods of wetland communities, all indicators studied need to be optimised or supported by various state and non-state actors to reduce vulnerability.

Graphical Abstract
Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Organic Dyes in Water Using Oak Leaf-Synthesized Iron Nanoparticles: A Study on Environmental Remediation and Antioxidant Potential
Authors: Kocadag Kocazorbaz Ebru
Published: January 2025

This study applies green chemistry principles to promote sustainable and environmentally friendly chemical processes by utilizing plant extracts, which are rich in bioactive compounds, as a sustainable resource for synthesizing nanoparticles. Iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) were synthesized using ferric chloride (FeCl3) and kermes oak (Quercus coccifera L.) leaf extract. The synthesized FeNPs were characterized using UV–Vis spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), and Zeta potential measurements. The antioxidant and dye degradation capabilities of the FeNPs were evaluated. The results revealed that the extract is rich in phenolic and flavonoid compounds. According to SEM analysis, FeNPs appeared aggregated and granular. The FeNPs exhibited ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities with values of 4.95 ± 0.52 µg/mL and 1.54 ± 0.014 μg/mL, respectively. The FeNPs demonstrated exceptional photocatalytic activity in degrading Methylene Blue, Crystal Violet, Congo Red, and Methylene Orange dyes. Experiments conducted over 180 min showed that FeNPs degraded Methylene Blue, Crystal Violet, Congo Red, and Methylene Orange dyes by 89.8%, 73.1%, 50.7%, and 37.9%, respectively. This study highlights the potential of FeNPs for the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes, emphasizing their importance in wastewater treatment applications.
How does collaborative task design shape collaborative knowledge construction and group-level regulation of learning? A study of secondary school students’ interactions in two varied tasks
Authors: Zabolotna Kateryna , Nøhr Liv , Iwata Megumi , Spikol Daniel , Malmberg Jonna , Järvenoja Hanna
Published: January 2025

Computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) offers a modern setting for learners to engage in meaningful (meta)cognitive and socioemotional interactions. However, the task design, not technology alone, significantly shapes students’ learning interactions. This study investigates how a conceptual physics task and a hands-on robotics task promote collaborative knowledge construction (CKC) and group-level cognitive, as well as emotion–motivation, regulation among secondary school students. Utilizing video recordings of students’ collaborative interactions and process-oriented methods, we examined the occurrence and temporal interplay of these processes from the two tasks. Transmodal network analysis complemented by qualitative case examples revealed significant differences in the nature of CKC and regulation of learning during the tasks. Cognitive processes and strong interconnections between cognitive regulation and negotiation were more typical for the conceptual physics task. The hands-on robotics task featured more frequent, but shorter, sequences of initial CKC phases and emphasized socioemotional interactions for sustained positive collaboration. This study highlights task design’s importance in collaborative learning processes and provides insights for optimizing CSCL environments for effective collaboration.
Der ataraxische Staat
Authors: Barrios-Suvelza Franz Xavier
Published: January 2025

Die These, dass Verfassungsgerichte, Experten und unabhängige Instanzen die Gesellschaft zunehmend regieren, ist umstritten. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es nicht, die mögliche empirische Untermauerung dieser Annahme weiter zu prüfen, sondern zunächst zu untersuchen, was diese unabhängigen Instanzen sind und wohin sie im staatlichen Makrogefüge gehören. Eine umfassende Einbettung dieser Instanzen in das Staatsgefüge hat bisher gefehlt. Durch ihre Bündelung wird ein Subsystem erkennbar, das als ataraxischer Staat bezeichnet wird. Zur Untermauerung dieses Befunds stützt sich der Artikel auf die klassische Theorie der Gewaltenteilung und auf das Konzept der horizontal accountability. Auf der Basis dieser begrifflichen Bündelung will der Artikel eine Neuinterpretation des in Vergessenheit geratenen Konzepts der Mischverfassung anregen. Die hier angebotene konzeptionelle Arbeit kommt zu dem Schluss, dass all diese unabhängigen Instanzen ein Subsystem im Staat bilden, das strukturell sowohl der Demokratie als auch der Politik entgegengesetzt ist und somit zu einem langfristigen und spezifischen Gleichgewicht des Gemeinwesens beitragen kann.
Cocaine and aortic dissection: the need for collaboration to overcome the underreporting bias
Authors: Basilicata Pascale , Lombardi Antonio , Marisei Mariagrazia , Capasso Emanuele , Simonelli Angela , Pieri Maria
Published: January 2025

The dissection of the aorta is a serious and potentially fatal consequence of cocaine use. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanisms and characteristics of this phenomenon remain to be deeply studied. The autopsy case of a 46-year-old white male found irresponsive and unconscious in his house and had a history of abusing cocaine is presented. Autopsy findings showed aortic arch and thoracic aorta of regular calibre, with evidence of a mid-adventitial dissecting aneurysm of the ascending intrapericardial portion of the aorta. Forensic toxicological analyses evidenced a positivity to cocaine and its main metabolite, benzoylecgonine, in all fluids (peripheral blood, bile and urine), liver and brain homogenates. Data also evidenced a positivity to alcohol, confirming a past history of intake. The presented case confirms the connection between cocaine addiction and the risk of aortic dissection, emphasizing the need for increased knowledge about the risks connected to this drug. It is emphasized the need of prompt examination and effective treatment of patients exhibiting cardiac symptoms linked to cocaine use, as well as the need of an accurate anamnesis to evidence use/abuse of other cardiotoxic substances.