bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of drilling by induced delamination of hybrid biocomposites reinforced with natural fibers: A statistical analysis by RSM
Authors: Elhadi Abdelmalek , Amroune Salah , Slamani Mohamed , Jawaid Mohammad , Koklu Ugur , Bidi Tarek
Published: August 2024

Studying the drilling of a hybrid jute/palm composite material offers significant contributions to sustainable material development. Incorporating renewable jute and palm fibers represents an innovative, eco-friendly approach compared to synthetic composites. This research aims to optimize drilling parameters to reduce defects and evaluate the performance of different drilling tools, crucial for industrial applications. Drilling is performed via three different types of drills bit: High-Speed Steel, HSS-Co5 coated high-speed steel with 5% cobalt, and carbide. The drilling process involves adjusting the feed and rotational speed. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to select drilling settings by validating experimentally obtained data and predicting the behavior of the structure based on cutting circumstances. The findings indicated that the most effective cutting parameters for minimizing delamination are achieved using the HSS drill bit, namely at lower feed and rotational speeds. Delamination remains below the threshold of 1.106 when the feed is 0.04 mm/rev and the rotational speed is 1592 rpm. The analysis of the results obtained using the response surface methodology indicates that the R2 coefficient for cylindricity is 0.96%. In contrast, the rate of delamination is 0.79% and the rate of circularity is 0.89%.
To Whom Thou Art Bound: Bicultural Identity Integration Moderates the Influence of Conspiracy Beliefs on Chinese Americans’ Ingroup Bias
Authors: Tan Edison , Cheng Chi-Ying , Leung Angela K.-y. , Wee Sheila X. R.
Published: August 2024

Endorsing conspiracy beliefs about an outgroup typically fosters ingroup bias. However, the response of bicultural individuals to conspiracy theories about one of their ingroups remains understudied. We posited that bicultural individuals’ display of ingroup bias in such situations hinges on their levels of bicultural identity integration (BII). Two studies involving Chinese American participants revealed that conspiracy beliefs about China were associated with lower Chinese ingroup bias among those with higher BII levels. In Study 1, high BII Chinese Americans who endorsed conspiracy theories about China reported less favorable perceptions of the Chinese ingroup, but not among low BII Chinese Americans. Study 2 replicated findings in Study 1 in that high (vs. low) BII Chinese Americans with higher conspiracy beliefs about China were less willing to allocate monetary resources to a fictitious Chinese charity and reported lower Chinese patriotism. This research contributes to the identity integration literature by illustrating how bicultural individuals with varying BII levels respond differently to geopolitical tensions in the context of conspiracy beliefs.
The Case for a Quantitative Approach to the Study of Nonnative Accent Features
Authors: Wagner Mónica Anna , Broersma Mirjam , McQueen James M. , van Hout Roeland , Lemhöfer Kristin
Published: August 2024

Research with nonnative speech spans many different linguistic branches and topics. Most studies include one or a few well-known features of a particular accent. However, due to a lack of empirical studies, little is known about how common these features are among nonnative speakers or how uncommon they are among native speakers. Moreover, it remains to be seen whether findings from such studies generalize to lesser-known features. Here, we demonstrate a quantitative approach to study nonnative accent features using Dutch-accented English as an example. By analyzing the phonetic distances between transcriptions of speech samples, this approach can identify the features that best distinguish nonnative from native speech. In addition, we describe a method to test hypotheses about accent features by checking whether the prevalence of the features overall varies between native and nonnative speakers. Furthermore, we include English speakers from the United States and United Kingdom and native Dutch speakers from Belgium and The Netherlands to address the issue of regional accent variability in both the native and target language. We discuss the results concerning three observed features. Overall, the results provide empirical support for some well-known features of Dutch-accented English, but suggest that others may be infrequent among nonnatives or in fact frequent among natives. In addition, the findings reveal potentially new accent features, and factors that may modulate the expression of known features. Our study demonstrates a fruitful approach to study nonnative accent features that has the potential to expand our understanding of the phenomenon of accent.
Age estimation using medial clavicle by histomorphometry method with artificial intelligence: A review
Authors: Pichetpan Kewalee , Singsuwan Phruksachat , Mahakkanukrauh Pasuk
Published: August 2024

This review research critically assesses the evolving landscape of age estimation methodologies, with a particular focus on the innovative integration of histomorphometry and artificial intelligence (AI) in the analysis of the medial clavicle. The medial clavicle emerges as a crucial skeletal feature for predicting age, offering valuable insights into the morphological changes occurring throughout an individual's lifespan. Through an in-depth exploration of histological complexities, including variations in osteons, trabecular structures, and cortical thickness, this review elucidates their utility as viable indicators for age-related evaluations. This framework is augmented by the incorporation of AI technology, which enables automatic picture identification, feature extraction, and complicated pattern analysis. Our review of previous research highlights the promise of AI in improving prediction models for nuanced age estimates, highlighting the importance of large-scale, diversified datasets and thorough cross-validation. This thorough study, which addresses ethical concerns as well as the influence of population-specific characteristics, moves the debate around age estimate ahead, presenting insights with consequences for forensic anthropology, clinical diagnoses, and future research avenues.
Effect of Diurnal Light Conditions on Electroretinogram Responses to Red and Blue Flickering Light
Authors: Kozaki Tomoaki , Takao Motoharu
Published: August 2024

Bright light impacts the human circadian system such that exposure to bright light at night can suppress melatonin secretion, and exposure to bright light in the morning prevents light-induced melatonin suppression at night. The preventive effect of morning light may attenuate the prior history of light sensitivity of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) that regulate the circadian system. In this study, we evaluated electroretinogram (ERG) responses to red and blue flickering lights following dim and bright daylight conditions. Eleven healthy females underwent ERG measurements during exposure to 33 Hz flickering red or blue light under dim and bright daytime conditions. We averaged ERG waves for 50 flickering light pulses of the trigger signal data. We obtained the amplitude of the signal-averaged ERG by calculating the difference between the waves’ peaks and bottoms. Although there was no significant dim and bright light difference in the amplitude of ERG waves, the ERG amplitude to flickering blue light under the bright light condition was significantly lower than to flickering blue light under the dim light condition. In this study, blue light stimulated mainly ipRGCs and S-cones. Since S-cones may contribute minimally to the light-adapted 33 Hz flicker ERG results, our findings suggest that bright light during the daytime attenuates the sensitivity of human ipRGCs.
Effects of Automated Feedback on English as a Foreign Language Learners’ Writing Performance: Evidence from a Quasi-experiment
Authors: Linh Hoang Giang Thi
Published: August 2024

Automated writing evaluation (AWE) is increasingly used to provide formative feedback on second language (L2) students’ writing. A key factor influencing the effectiveness of AWE feedback on L2 writing performance is the learners’ revision behaviors as they process the feedback. Adopting a quasi-experiment, this study aims to evaluate the impacts of Criterion automated corrective feedback (ACF) on English as a foreign language (EFL) students’ writing performance based on two measures of accuracy: overall writing accuracy and accuracy of English article usage. Learners’ textual operations in response to Criterion ACF were examined for possible explanations for recorded gains (if any) in their writing accuracy. The main findings indicate a lack of intervention and retention effects on learners’ accuracy over the semester during which Criterion ACF was incorporated to supplement the writing instructor's feedback on organization and content. In addition, across four writing entries conducted on Criterion, learners’ revisions to their essays following Criterion ACF were primarily at the local level, dominated by addition, deletion, or substitution of individual words or short phrases rather than substantive revisions to their scripts. About one third of all Criterion feedback points did not result in textual changes to the first drafts, indicating a moderate uptake rate of the feedback. Implications related to formative feedback practices in the EFL writing classroom and the adaptation of Criterion's technical capacities are accordingly presented.
Study on the water transport performance of the fractal tree-like structure of nonwoven cotton fabrics
Authors: Shi Yunrui , Chen Qing , Wang Lu , Han Zhengliang , Xu Lianlian , Xiao Xin , Xu Peng , Shou Dahua , Fan Jintu
Published: August 2024

Fractal branching networks are structures that are ubiquitous in nature, possessing multiple transport characteristics, and have been the subject of long-term attention by many researchers. Currently, in the field of textiles, research on the ability of tree-like structures to enhance the water transport property of fabrics is mostly focused on the thickness direction of the fabric. However, there is little research on the liquid water transfer rate in the horizontal direction. In this article, the water transport performance of liquid water in tree-like fractal nonwoven fabrics with different shapes (tree-like and rectangular) was investigated, and the liquid water transport rate was measured using the horizontal wicking method. It was found that when the sum of the cube of the branch width was equal to the cube of the main stem width, the water transport efficiency of liquid water in the fabric is optimal. At the same time, a summary of the experimental data was made by comparing the water transport property of fabrics with corresponding equal areas but different widths or heights. It was found that for nonwoven fabrics with the same area size, tree-like structures can transport liquid water to a farther distance in the same amount of time. Furthermore, the liquid water transport ability of tree-like nonwoven fabrics in the horizontal direction was simulated using finite element analysis in COMSOL Multiphysics, and the results were in good agreement with the experimental values.
ChatGPT Goes to College: Exploring Student Perspectives on Artificial Intelligence in the Classroom
Authors: Cavazos Jenel T. , Hauck Keane A. , Baskin Hannah M. , Bain Catherine M.
Published: August 2024

Background

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has sparked numerous discussions about its implications. ChatGPT, a prominent AI conversational model, has attracted significant attention for its ability to generate essays and formulate responses.

Objective

The current study sought to explore how and why students are using ChatGPT, and to examine their perceptions about ChatGPT and academic integrity.

Method

Students were surveyed about the frequency and motivation for ChatGPT use and their views on ChatGPT and academic misconduct. Exploratory factor analyses were conducted to examine patterns of correlations between each of the measures.

Results

Students primarily use ChatGPT for gathering information, motivated by its value and convenience rather than hedonic reasons, and can correctly identify academically unethical uses of the tool as cheating.

Conclusion

The current study presents comprehensive data on college students’ ChatGPT usage patterns, attitudes, and perceptions of cheating behavior. The outcomes of this research provide insight into how college students are currently interacting with AI tools.

Teaching Implications

Our findings offer practical insights for universities developing AI policies in the classroom, contributing to the ongoing discourse on AI’s role in higher education by providing accurate information about ChatGPT’s pervasiveness in academia.
How a Child Understands Death: Attachment Theory Perspective
Authors: Aleem Sadia
Published: August 2024

Background:

Little is empirically known about how young children understand death or how this perception is affected by their attachment to parents.

Method:

One hundred and ten children between the ages of 5 and 10 years participated in this study, which assessed both children’s understanding of death and their fear of death. Parental attachment style was measured using parental self-report.

Results:

A correlation analysis found that a greater understanding of death was associated with lower levels of death anxiety when the children were securely attached. These results provide some empirical support for the widespread belief that discussing death and dying in biological terms is the best way to alleviate the fear of death in young children when parents have a strong bond with their children.

Conclusion:

Understanding of death and fear of death in children are associated with an insecure parental attachment style.
Cave morphometric analysis: A review
Authors: Dora Despoina , Lazaridis Georgios , Vouvalidis Konstantinos , Tokmakidis Konstantinos , Veni George
Published: August 2024

Morphometric analysis is the quantification of shapes, which makes irregular shapes found in nature analyzable and comparable. Cave morphometry has been used for the genetic classification of caves, the digital reconstruction of their conduits, the decoding of their paleoenvironment, and other research purposes. Ratios and indices that have been derived from Euclidean geometry and application of fractal geometry onto karst features and topological parameters are the basic methodologies that have been used for shape quantification. This paper reviews the literature that focuses on methodologies used for morphometric analyses and the applications that these methodologies have found.
Advance-selling strategies under platform competition
Authors: Zhang Zhi-jian , Li Chao-hao , Li Guang-quan , Zhou Ya-di , Wan Mi-yu
Published: August 2024

With the competition between e-commerce platforms intensifying, advance-selling has gradually become a mainstream marketing strategy. This article establishes a mathematical model of competition between two platforms and retailers, considering four scenarios: spot-sale only, advance-selling only, spot-sale with coupons, advance-selling with coupons. The study explores the impact mechanism of platform competition on advance-selling strategies. The results show that when the advantage of product evaluation is large, the unit transaction cost is small or the product cost is low, the retailers should actively adopt the advance-selling scheme with discount pricing. Compared with low-value products, high-value products are priced higher and have greater demand, which can bring higher revenue to the retailers and the platforms. The benefits of the advance-selling scheme are limited, but the issuance of coupons could increase the revenue of both platforms and retailers, and the value of platform coupons in the spot-sale market is higher.

JEL Classification: L81, C79
Perimeter Control-Based Coordinated Ramp Metering with Linked Queue Management for Freeway Networks
Authors: He Ziang , Han Yu , Guo Weihong , Ji Yanjie , Liu Pan
Published: August 2024

This paper proposes a macroscopic fundamental diagram (MFD)-based perimeter control approach for coordinated ramp metering, aiming to minimize the total time spent (TTS) of a freeway network (stretch) with multiple bottlenecks. To address problems incurred from limited queue storage space and minimum green time at on-ramps, the proposed method extends previous approaches in two aspects. Firstly, a coordinated ramp control approach is proposed to ensure that the total metered on-ramp flow remains below the value determined by the MFD-based perimeter regulator, thereby preventing network over-saturation. Secondly, a novel queue management approach is developed to prevent on-ramp queue saturation and its associated side effects, for example, spillback or insufficient control actions. This approach determines the quasi-optimal flow of the next upstream (slave) on-ramp, based on the predicted queue of each (master) on-ramp suffering from excessive queues. The proposed perimeter controller was tested using SUMO, a microscopic simulator, on a realistic freeway network, and compared with other existing strategies, including HERO and perimeter controllers with other metered on-ramp flow distribution approaches. The simulation results suggest that the proposed strategy can ( i) effectively mitigate congestion and maintain capacity within the freeway network, resulting in reduced overall TTS, and ( ii) appropriately delay or prevent queue saturation at on-ramps.
Sustainable Pervious Concrete with Silica Fume as Cement Replacement: A Review
Authors: Sathiparan Navaratnarajah , Subramaniam Daniel Niruban
Published: August 2024

Pervious concrete is a unique type of concrete with high porosity that allows water to pass through. This characteristic makes it beneficial for various applications, such as stormwater management, groundwater recharge, and reduced heat island effect. However, pervious concrete typically requires more cement than conventional concrete because of its mix design. This increased cement content can be partially replaced with supplementary cementitious materials, such as silica fume. This review article investigates the influence of silica fume on the properties of pervious concrete, including the mechanical properties (compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength), durability (resistance to freeze–thaw cycles and abrasion), and environmental aspects. The article highlights that silica fume can improve the mechanical properties and durability of pervious concrete up to an optimal replacement level. The optimum replacement level of cement with silica fume was found to be 10%–15%. Beyond this level, the performance of pervious concrete decreases. The pervious concrete containing silica fume showed superior abrasion resistance and improved freeze–thaw resistance compared to conventional pervious concrete. In addition, incorporating silica fume in pervious concrete reduces cement usage, leading to a lower environmental impact and more sustainable construction practices. The article also analyzes the limitations of using silica fume, such as the potential for reduced workability because of its fine particle size. Overall, the review suggests that silica fume is a promising supplementary cementitious material for enhancing the performance and sustainability of pervious concrete.
Clients’ experiences during three phases of a time-limited psychodrama group: A case study
Authors: Doğmuş Yağmur Ulusoy , Canpolat Murat
Published: August 2024

Although it is known that the group stages share similar dynamics and the leaders have certain tasks in each stage, the experiences of group members could differ in each stage. The main purpose of this case study is to understand how guidance and psychological counselling students participating in a psychodrama group are affected by the process and how they experience each stage of the group. In this context, a 12-week psychodrama study was conducted with group members (n = 9), and qualitative data were collected to determine the self-perceptions of the members at the end. The thematic analysis of the study revealed six main themes: first emotions, difficulties, self-awareness, changing emotions, achievements and what they left to time. In the first sessions, it was observed that the members had difficulties in disclosing themselves and role-playing because they were excited, scared and worried. In the proceeding sessions, as the members gained confidence in the group and realized that they would not be judged, they relaxed and disclosed themselves. Many of the members who experienced many realizations noted the changes in themselves in the final sessions and emphasized that they needed time for some skills to be realized. In addition, the development of counselling skills such as empathy, listening and self-awareness as a result of the research reveals that psychodrama is a promising approach in developing and teaching counselling skills. Practical recommendations are presented for mental health professionals and researchers based on the study findings.
Investigating fabric interlayer effects on tensile loading limits of adhesively bonded single-lap composite joints
Authors: Taş Hamza , Soykok Ibrahim Fadil
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates enhancing the effectiveness of glass fiber/epoxy composite single-lap bonded joints by using fabric interlayers between the adherends. It was aimed to evaluate the changes in the joint tensile strength depending on the parameters such as different interlayer fabric types (S2-glass fabric and Kevlar fabric), numbers of interlayers (0, 1, 2, and 3), clamping pressure (0, 4, and 6 MPa), and temperature (20, 55, and 80°C) applied to the joint region throughout the curing period. Significant enhancements in peak tensile forces were observed by varying these parameters. The most substantial increase in tensile properties was achieved for the joint with two-layer S2 fabric fabricated at 4 MPa pressure and 55°C curing temperature, denoted as “2L-S2-P4-T55.” Compared to a non-layered joint, those with 1, 2, and 3 S2 fabric interlayers exhibited 35.5%, 39.6%, and 45.2% increases in tensile peak force, respectively. Increasing bonding pressure from 0 MPa to 4 MPa resulted in a 5.2% tensile failure load increase for double S2 fabric interlayered joints cured at 20°C, but a 6.7% decrease at 6 MPa. Using one-layer Kevlar fabric instead of one-layer S2 fabric caused a 15.2% drop in tensile peak force, still 14.9% higher than the non-layered joint.
Leveraging Large Administrative Data for Special Education Policy Analysis: Recent Contributions and Future Directions
Authors: Gilmour Allison F. , Stiefel Leanna
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this special issue is to explain the advantages of using administrative data generated by states and school districts for research in special education, illustrate their use in special education policy studies, and encourage more such analyses. In this introduction to the special issue, we define and distinguish large administrative data sets, discuss types of special education policy questions that are appropriate for addressing with administrative data, provide a high-level overview of methods that are commonly used with such data, discuss examples of published analyses that use each method, note some of the limitations to using administrative data, and briefly introduce articles in the special issue.
Menstrual Cycle Variations in Wearable-Detected Finger Temperature and Heart Rate, But Not in Sleep Metrics, in Young and Midlife Individuals
Authors: Alzueta Elisabet , Gombert-Labedens Marie , Javitz Harold , Yuksel Dilara , Perez-Amparan Evelyn , Camacho Leticia , Kiss Orsolya , de Zambotti Massimiliano , Sattari Negin , Alejandro-Pena Andres , Zhang Jing , Shuster Alessandra , Morehouse Allison , Simon Katharine , Mednick Sara , Baker Fiona C.
Published: August 2024

Most studies about the menstrual cycle are laboratory-based, in small samples, with infrequent sampling, and limited to young individuals. Here, we use wearable and diary-based data to investigate menstrual phase and age effects on finger temperature, sleep, heart rate (HR), physical activity, physical symptoms, and mood. A total of 116 healthy females, without menstrual disorders, were enrolled: 67 young (18-35 years, reproductive stage) and 53 midlife (42-55 years, late reproductive to menopause transition). Over one menstrual cycle, participants wore Oura ring Gen2 to detect finger temperature, HR, heart rate variability (root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats [RMSSD]), steps, and sleep. They used luteinizing hormone (LH) kits and daily rated sleep, mood, and physical symptoms. A cosinor rhythm analysis was applied to detect menstrual oscillations in temperature. The effect of menstrual cycle phase and group on all other variables was assessed using hierarchical linear models. Finger temperature followed an oscillatory trend indicative of ovulatory cycles in 96 participants. In the midlife group, the temperature rhythm’s mesor was higher, but period, amplitude, and number of days between menses and acrophase were similar in both groups. In those with oscillatory temperatures, HR was lowest during menses in both groups. In the young group only, RMSSD was lower in the late-luteal phase than during menses. Overall, RMSSD was lower, and number of daily steps was higher, in the midlife group. No significant menstrual cycle changes were detected in wearable-derived or self-reported measures of sleep efficiency, duration, wake-after-sleep onset, sleep onset latency, or sleep quality. Mood positivity was higher around ovulation, and physical symptoms manifested during menses. Temperature and HR changed across the menstrual cycle; however, sleep measures remained stable in these healthy young and midlife individuals. Further work should investigate over longer periods whether individual- or cluster-specific sleep changes exist, and if a buffering mechanism protects sleep from physiological changes across the menstrual cycle.
Graft Versus Host Disease: Management Issues in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Salhotra Amandeep , Ngo Dat , Kareem Waasil
Published: August 2024

Graft versus host disease (GVHD) in acute and chronic forms is a frequent post-transplant complication and seen in 50% of patients in acute and up to 70% cases in chronic GVHD setting. Patients with multiorgan involvement and those who are steroid refractory, frequently present with complications arising from this post-transplant complication. These GVHD patients are frequently managed in the Intensive care unit for treatment of air leaks, effusions, management of hypoxemia due to lung GVHD or infections. Close coordination between hematologists and Pulmonary medicine specialists is critical for timely management of these complications to improve patient outcomes.
It’s what I think you do that matters: Comparing self, partner, and shared perspectives of what a romantic partner does to regulate your emotions
Authors: Walker Sarah A , Pinkus Rebecca T , Double Kit S , Xiao Hester , MacCann Carolyn
Published: August 2024

Romantic partners routinely regulate each other’s emotions; this phenomenon is known as extrinsic emotion regulation. Previous research investigating emotion regulation in couples has typically examined self-report of emotion regulation from only one member of the couple. It is therefore unclear how much romantic partners agree on which emotion regulation strategies their partner uses and whether this agreement or the unique perspective of each person is the stronger predictor of relationship quality. In the current study ( N = 395 romantic couples), we applied a bifactor model to assess the extent to which extrinsic emotion regulation processes (expressive suppression, downward social comparison, humor, distraction, direct action, reappraisal, receptive listening, and valuing) related to relationship quality, comparing: (a) the unique perspective of the regulator, (b) the unique perspective of the target, and (c) the shared perspective (consensus) between the target and regulator. The results indicated that it is the target’s, rather than the regulator’s perspective of emotion regulation that predicts the relationship quality of both members of the romantic couple. Overall, these findings suggest that it is not what the regulator thinks they do to regulate their romantic partner’s emotions that relates to relationship quality, but rather the target’s perceptions of the regulation attempt.
The Effects of Opioid Administration on Clostridioides Difficile Infection: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Anderson Erin , Brown Brooke Hendrix , Brown Skyler , Freeman Nikki , Yates John R.
Published: August 2024

Background: Clostridioides difficile ( C. difficile) is a leading cause of healthcare-associated infections. Using opioids while infected with C. difficile may hypothetically lead to reduced clearance of the organism and higher risk of progressing to severe or fulminant infection. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine if opioid use leads to worsening of C. difficile infection. Methods: This was a single-center, retrospective cohort study of patients with C. difficile infection. The primary endpoint was progression to severe or fulminant disease, defined as serum creatinine greater than 1.5 mg/dL or over 50% of baseline, white blood cells above 15,000 cells/mm3, shock requiring vasopressors, ileus, toxic megacolon, or vancomycin dose increase. Secondary outcomes included hospital length of stay and time to resolution of diarrhea. The groups were stratified based on average morphine milligram equivalents received during the treatment. Results: A total of 73 patients were included in the non-opioid group and 93 patients in the opioid group. The composite outcome occurred in 16 patients (21.9%) without opioids vs 26 patients (28.0%) with opioids; ( P = 0.37). The average length of stay was 7.2 days without opioids and 9.3 days with opioids ( P = 0.11) and the average time to resolution of diarrhea was 3.5 days without opioids and 5.5 days with opioids ( P = 0.40). Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the rate of progression to severe or fulminant disease. There was a numerical trend towards increase in progression in patients who had opioids, primarily driven by those who had higher dosages of opioids used.
Assessment of Incomplete Apical Bone Coverage of Maxillary Premolar and Molar Roots Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography in 161 Dogs
Authors: Dick Colin
Published: August 2024

This retrospective study assessed maxillary premolar and molar teeth and identified roots with incomplete apical bone coverage using cone beam computed tomography in 161 dogs. The associated dorsal anatomic sites that the roots communicated with were the ventral nasal meatus, maxillary recess, infraorbital canal, and pterygopalatine fossa. The study found that all roots of the maxillary premolar and molar teeth have the potential for incomplete apical bone coverage, with 26.7% having incomplete apical bone coverage. No significant association with sex was found. A significant association with weight was found, and this lowered with increasing body weight. Facial index, as a determinate of skull shape, was found to be significant in only 35.7% of roots in univariate and 14.2% of roots in multivariate modeling. Knowledge of the anatomy of these roots plays an important role in safe and effective extraction techniques, in reducing iatrogenic trauma, and in understanding the potential local effects of periodontal and endodontic disease.
Sounding the alarm for digital agriculture: Examining risks to the human rights to science and food
Authors: Pappa Foto
Published: August 2024

Digital agriculture is described as a solution to population growth and climate change. It entails technologies such as robots, drones, sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) and AI. However, with the adoption of digital agriculture comes the concern that existing power asymmetries may deepen, and inequalities between farmers may be exacerbated. This article focuses on small farmers due to the correlation between a large farm size and the adoption of digital agriculture, cautioning that digital agriculture may progressively drive more and more farmers out of agriculture. This article examines the risks that digital agriculture poses to the human rights to science and food. On the right to science, this article covers access to technology, especially in relation to barriers for small farmers in adopting digital agriculture. It also explores the obligation to protect from the negative effects of (digital agricultural) technology. On the right to food, the article analyses the impacts on its elements, such as availability and accessibility. Finally, the article presents State obligations under the right to food, alongside an examination of potential measures to ensure State compliance with this right.
Study on the allowed maximum amplitudes of low-order polygonal wear on resilient wheels based on operational safety
Authors: Zhong Shuoqiao , Zhou Xin , Sheng Xiaozhen , Hou Chuanlun , Qi Yuan , Baeza Luis
Published: August 2024

Following the extensive use of resilient wheels on trams, several subways in China have started pre-launch testing of resilient wheels. While it remains at an early stage, the long-term behavior of the wheel has become a great concern for subway operators and wheel suppliers. To address the concern, this study focuses on derailment risk by evaluating the allowed maximum amplitudes of low-order polygonal wear on resilient wheels. Firstly, a metro vehicle-track dynamic system model equipped with resilient wheels is built. Then, based on the operation safety index and current re-profiling regulations for conventional wheels, the influence of wheel axial and radial stiffness on the radial amplitude limits of resilient wheel polygonal wear is analyzed. To perform the analysis, firstly the commonly-used stiffness for a resilient wheel (300 kN/mm in radial direction and 50 kN/mm in axial direction) is adopted to study the effect of resilient wheel polygonization on wheel load reduction ratio. Then, wheel load reduction ratio is predicted for different radial (up to 600 kN/mm) and axial (up to 100 kN/mm) stiffnesses of the resilient wheel and different orders (up to 10) of wheel polygonization of 1 mm amplitude. A contour plot is provided to illustrate how the wheel load reduction ratio varies with the harmonic order and amplitude of wheel polygonization under different combinations of resilient wheel’s equivalent axial and radial stiffnesses. It is found that, with the increase of the amplitude of the polygonal wear of a certain harmonic order on resilient wheel, the number of the available combinations of the equivalent stiffnesses adopted by the resilient wheel becomes less by considering the operation safety indexed with wheel load reduction ratio. Besides, depending on the stiffness of the resilient wheel, the allowed amplitude corresponding to the polygonization of each order has been suggested with the contour plots.
Chondrogenic potential of superficial versus cartilage layer cells of the temporomandibular joint condyle in photopolymerizable gelatin-based hydrogels
Authors: Li Wuyang , Taboas Juan M. , Almarza Alejandro J.
Published: August 2024

The objectives of this study were to compare the chondrogenic potential of cells derived from different layers of Mandibular condyle cartilage and to gain further understanding of the impact of chondrogenic cues when embedded into a novel hydrogel scaffold (PGH, a polymer blend of poly (ethylene glycol), gelatin, and heparin) compared to a gelatin hydrogel scaffold (GEL). Cartilage layer cells (CLCs) and fibroblastic superficial layer cells (SLCs) were harvested from the mandibular condyle of boer goats obtained from a local abattoir. After expansion, cells were seeded into PGH and GEL hydrogels and cultured in chondrogenic media for 3 weeks. Scaffolds were harvested at 0, 1, and 3 week(s) and processed for gross appearance, histochemical, biochemical, and mechanical assays. In terms of chondrogenesis, major differences were observed between scaffold materials, but not cell types. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) staining showed GEL scaffolds deposited GAG during the 3 week period, which was also confirmed with the biochemical testing. Moreover, GEL scaffolds had significantly higher compressive modulus and peak stress than PGH scaffolds at all time points with the largest difference seen in week 3. It can be concluded that GEL outperformed PGH in chondrogenesis. It can also be concluded that materials play a more important role in the process of chondrogenesis than the tested cell populations. Fibroblastic SLCs were shown to have similar chondrogenic potential as CLCs cells, suggesting a rich pool of progenitor cells in the superficial fibroblastic layer capable of undergoing chondrogenesis given appropriate physical and chemical cues.
Does Physiological Arousal Increase Social Transmission of Information? Two Replications of Berger (2011)
Authors: Prowten Skyler , Walker Emily , London Brian , Pearce Elizabeth , Napoli Angela , Chenevert Bailey , Clevenger Christian , Smith Andrew R.
Published: August 2024

People share information for many reasons. For example, Berger (2011, N = 40) found that undergraduate participants manipulated to have higher physiological arousal were more likely to share a news article with others via email than people who had low arousal. Berger’s research is widely cited as evidence of the causal role of arousal in sharing information and has been used to explain why information that induces high-arousal emotions is shared more than information that induces low-arousal emotions. We conducted two replications ( N = 111, N = 160) of Berger’s study, using the same arousal manipulation but updating the sharing measure to reflect the rise of information sharing through social media. Both studies failed to find an impact of incidental physiological arousal on undergraduate participants’ willingness to share news articles on social media. Our studies cast doubt on the idea that incidental physiological arousal—in the absence of other factors—impacts people’s decisions to share information on social networking sites.
Not All Powerful People Are Created Equal: An Examination of Gender and Pathways to Social Hierarchy Through the Lens of Social Cognition
Authors: Townsend Charlotte H. , Mishra Sonya , Kray Laura J.
Published: August 2024

Across four studies ( N = 816 U.S. adults), we uncovered a gender stereotype about dual pathways to social hierarchy: Men were associated with power, and women were associated with status. We detected this pattern both explicitly and implicitly in perceptions of individuals drawn from Forbes magazine’s powerful people lists in undergraduate and online samples. We examined social-cognitive implications, including prominent people’s degree of recognition by individuals and society, and the formation of men’s and women’s self-concepts. We found that power (status) ratings predicted greater recognition of men (women) and lesser recognition of women (men). In terms of the self-concept, we found that women internalized the stereotype associating women with status more than power implicitly and explicitly. Although men explicitly reported having less status and more power than women, men implicitly associated the self with status as much as power. No gender differences emerged in the desires for power and status.
Inference for restricted mean survival time as a function of restriction time under length-biased sampling
Authors: Bai Fangfang , Yang Xiaoran , Chen Xuerong , Wang Xiaofei
Published: August 2024

The restricted mean survival time (RMST) is often of direct interest in clinical studies involving censored survival outcomes. It describes the area under the survival curve from time zero to a specified time point. When data are subject to length-biased sampling, as is frequently encountered in observational cohort studies, existing methods cannot estimate the RMST for various restriction times through a single model. In this article, we model the RMST as a continuous function of the restriction time under the setting of length-biased sampling. Two approaches based on estimating equations are proposed to estimate the time-varying effects of covariates. Finally, we establish the asymptotic properties for the proposed estimators. Simulation studies are performed to demonstrate the finite sample performance. Two real-data examples are analyzed by our procedures.
Why Women Exit Politics: The Case of Two Grassroots Activists in a Slum in New Delhi
Authors: Waldrop Anne
Published: August 2024

This article investigates why it is so difficult for women to succeed in politics in India, and it analyses this from a grassroots perspective in a slum in New Delhi. Based on longitudinal ethnographic research, I explore and compare in-depth the political trajectories of two women activists and examine why, despite being successful leaders of women and allied with male political ‘godfathers’, they have ended up leaving grassroots activism altogether. I show that both women were first pulled into political activism by NGOs working on women’s empowerment, that both later allied with male politicians to help draw ‘the women’s vote’ and that both women’s respective success largely rested on their concern with so-called women’s causes. However, neither of them was able to build up their own patronage networks, which is necessary to gain an independent political standing in politics. They remained dependent on their male political mentors and on family support; losing one or both of these instigated their respective exits from activism and politics.
Non-invasive Assessment of Microstructural Changes After CyberKnife Radiosurgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Raja Rabbi Jebus
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims:

Given the absence of a universally accepted non-invasive and objective clinical tool to predict a patient’s response to stereotactic radiosurgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), this research endeavoured to appraise the potential of Diffusion Tensor Imaging as a predictive tool in managing TN.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess microstructural changes in the trigeminal nerve following CyberKnife radiosurgery (CKRS) for TN using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and to correlate these changes with clinical outcomes.

Methods:

Twenty-eight TN patients treated with CKRS underwent pre and 4-month post-treatment Three-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging scans with DTI metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD) and mean diffusivity (MD), were collected. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute Pain Intensity Score (BNI-PIS) at fourth, sixth and ninth months post-CKRS.

Results:

Twenty-four patients reported good pain relief (responders), while four patients did not experience adequate relief (non-responders). Responders exhibited significantly lower FA (mean drop of 13.8%, P < .001) and lower RA (mean drop of 16.1%, P < .001) compared to non-responders. RD, AD and MD remained constant across the study cohort.

Conclusion:

DTI metrics, particularly FA and RA, at 4 months post-CKRS, emerged as predictors of long-term treatment effectiveness for TN. These findings suggest the potential utility of DTI in evaluating microstructural changes in the trigeminal nerve post-CKRS and predicting clinical outcomes.
Australian specialised mental healthcare labour shortages: Potential interventions for consideration and further research
Authors: Looi Jeffrey CL , Allison Stephen , Bastiampillai Tarun , Hensher Martin , Kisely Steve , Robson Stephen J
Published: August 2024

Objective

Specialised mental healthcare delivery is highly labour intensive, and the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated workforce shortfalls. We explore the information on the mental healthcare labour supply in Australia from a health policy viewpoint. Our purpose is to stimulate discussion, further research and development of interventions.

Conclusions

The mental healthcare labour market has a number of features that make it prone to shortages and other distortions. These include: the labour-intensive nature of healthcare work;, long-training periods; that traditional policy levers like pay are only partially effective; as well as other challenges in retaining and recruiting mental health nurses and psychiatrists, especially in public mental health services. Further research is needed to develop and evaluate effective interventions.
Endoparasites of rabbits and hares
Authors: Hughes Katherine
Published: August 2024

Nematode, cestode, protozoan, microsporidian, and pentastomid parasites affect domesticated and wild rabbits, hares, and jackrabbits of the genera Brachylagus, Lepus, Oryctolagus, Pentalagus, and Sylvilagus. Some endoparasite infections are of limited or no significance, whereas others have potentially profound consequences. Accurate identification of endoparasites of rabbits, hares, and jackrabbits is an important facet of the work of veterinary pathologists engaged in lagomorph pathology. Here I review endoparasites from the pathologist’s perspective, focusing on pathogenesis, lesions, and implications of infection. Stomach nematodes Graphidium strigosum and Obeliscoides cuniculi are infrequently pathogenic but may cause gastritis and gastric mucosal thickening. Nematodes Passalurus ambiguus, Protostrongylus spp., Trichostrongylus spp., and Trichuris spp. are rarely associated with disease. Adult Capillaria hepatica (syn. Calodium hepaticum) nematodes and non-embryonated eggs cause granulomatous hepatitis in wild Oryctolagus cuniculus and Lepus europaeus, resulting in multifocal, off-white, hepatic lesions, which may be misdiagnosed as hepatic eimeriosis. When the rabbit is an intermediate host for carnivore cestodes, the space-occupying effects of Cysticercus pisiformis and Coenurus serialis may have pathologic consequences. Eimeria stiedai is a major cause of white-spotted liver in O. cuniculus, particularly in juveniles. Enteric coccidiosis is a noteworthy cause of unthriftiness in young animals, and frequently manifests as diarrhea with grossly appreciable multifocal off-white intestinal lesions. O. cuniculus is the natural host for the zoonotic microsporidian Encephalitozoon cuniculi. Infection may be acute and focused mainly on the kidneys, or it may follow a chronic disease course, frequently with neurologic lesions. A latent carrier status may also develop.
Clinicopathologic findings and causes of mortality in 100 pet rabbits from the Canary Islands, Spain, 2011–2022
Authors: Espinosa García-San Román Jaime , Quesada-Canales Óscar , Rosales Rubén S. , Déniz Soraya , Arbelo Manuel
Published: August 2024

The European domestic rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus) is commonly kept as a pet, with increasing popularity among pet owners. Despite the increasing body of information on lagomorph medicine and pathology, comprehensive published compilations of causes of mortality in pet rabbits are limited. We analyzed health disorders, pathology findings, and most probable causes of death in 100 pet rabbits submitted to the Anatomopathological Diagnostic Service of the Veterinary School of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain, from 2011 to 2022. We reviewed clinical data and gross and histopathologic findings to classify the various disorders into infectious ( n = 39), noninfectious ( n = 45), and idiopathic conditions ( n = 16). Within infectious disease processes, Encephalitozoon cuniculi infection ( n = 14) and rabbit hemorrhagic viral disease ( n = 14) had the highest prevalence. Regarding the noninfectious conditions, perioperative mortality ( n = 10), gastrointestinal syndrome ( n = 7), and trauma ( n = 6) were the most common clinicopathologic entities observed.