bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Firm Value Impact of Global Oil and Gas Mergers and Acquisitions: The Role of Environmental Policy Framework
Authors: Yildirim Canan , Vanwalleghem Dieter
Published: January 2025

The oil and gas (O&G) industry is under increasing pressure to decarbonize and adopt sustainable practices. While some firms are transitioning toward renewable energy, many continue to expand their traditional O&G operations. This study examines how financial markets perceive the value creation potential of business-as-usual mergers and acquisitions (M&As) by the world’s largest O&G companies from 2000 to 2021. Using an event study methodology, we focus on the role of home-country environmental policy stringency (EPS) in shaping market reactions. Our findings reveal that higher EPS in the acquirer’s home country is associated with a greater perceived loss in shareholder value upon the announcement of traditional O&G M&A deals, suggesting that EPS signals significant operational and financial risks related to hydrocarbon investments. However, when these deals are cross-border, the adverse impact of the acquirer’s home-market EPS diminishes, indicating that expanding beyond domestic markets may help O&G firms mitigate the financial consequences of stricter environmental regulations.

JEL Classification: G11, G14, G34, Q40, Q58
The Continuous Fragility Index of Statistically Significant Findings in Studies Based on High Levels of Evidence Comparing Interventions for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome
Authors: Villarreal-Espinosa Juan Bernardo , Khan Zeeshan A. , Jan Kyleen , Saad Berreta Rodrigo , Murray Michael J. , Allende Felicitas , Nho Shane J. , Chahla Jorge
Published: January 2025

Background:

Critical analysis of studies with high level of evidence has relied on the significance set by the reported P values. However, this strategy steers readers toward categorical interpretation of the data; therefore, a more comprehensive approach of data analysis is warranted. The continuous fragility index (CFI) allows for frailty interpretation of any given study's continuous outcome results.

Purpose:

To calculate the CFI of high-level quality studies reporting significant continuous outcomes on comparison of treatment modalities for management of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Three databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane) were queried from inception to February 2024 utilizing Boolean operators to combine variations of the following search terms: “femoroacetabular impingement, randomized controlled trials or prospective cohort.” Studies were included if level of evidence 1 or 2, and a statistically significant outcome was reported for any continuous outcome. CFI calculation was performed for all significant outcomes to obtain a study-specific mean CFI and also for the primary outcome of each study. Mean CFI was also calculated for outcomes reported to be significant in >3 studies. Additionally, multivariable linear regression was utilized for assessment of variables associated with achievement of a higher CFI.

Results:

Thirteen studies totaling 1316 patients were included for analysis: 11 level of evidence 1 and 2 level of evidence 2 studies. A total of 48 outcomes reaching significance were extracted, with 8 representing primary outcomes. Study-specific mean (SD) CFI was 8 (9.3), whereas primary outcome mean CFI was 12.5 (12). In 4 of the 13 studies, the number of hips lost to follow-up was greater than the study CFI. Outcome-specific mean CFI was obtained for 5 outcomes reported in >3 studies. Multivariable linear regression revealed that larger sample size and greater journal impact factor had a significant positive association with a higher overall CFI value ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

The mean (SD) number of patient outcome events needed to reverse the significance of a continuous outcome (ie, CFI) was 8.0 (9.3). Nearly one-third of studies had a CFI less than the reported loss to follow-up, reflecting the need for better patient compliance to attain less fragile statistical results. Larger sample size and greater journal impact factor were both predictive of a higher CFI.
Combining an Anterolateral Complex Procedure With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Reduces Graft Reinjury Without Increasing the Rate of Complications: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: D’Ambrosi Riccardo , Corona Katia , Cerciello Simone , Guerra Germano , Mercurio Michele , Galasso Olimpio , Valli Federico , Abermann Elisabeth , Fink Christian
Published: January 2025

Background:

Anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) or lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) has been used more frequently in conjunction with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in recent years. However, there are still concerns that these procedures may lead to complications such as overconstraint of the lateral compartment, stiffness, infections, tunnel convergence, and other intra- and postoperative complications because of increased surgical time and the need for additional procedures.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The lateral extra-articular procedure will reduce the failure rate of reconstructed ACLs without increasing the number of complications. The purpose was to compare the complication and graft reinjury rates of 2 main anterolateral complex procedure categories described in the literature—LET and ALLR with isolated ACLR.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RTCs); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The methodology followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched on March 15, 2024, to identify RTCs comparing isolated ACLR with ACLR + LET or ALLR. The methodological index for nonrandomized studies was employed for the quality evaluation. Complications and graft reinjury rates were recorded and meta-analyzed from all included studies.

Results:

The initial search yielded 1411 articles. Seventeen studies that included the complication rates (5 in the ALLR group and 12 in the LET group) were included in the review. No significant differences were found in the incidence of complications between the ACLR and ACLR + ALLR groups (Mantel-Haenszel [M-H], 1.20 [95% CI, 0.05-29.30]; P = .91) or between the ACLR and ACLR + LET groups (M-H, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.05-2.98]; P = .36). Significant differences were observed in the failure rate between the ACLR + ALLR group (M-H, 6.78 [95% CI, 1.98-23.22]; P = .002) and the ACLR + LET group (M-H, 3.14 [95% CI, 1.96- 5.04]; P < .00001).

Conclusion:

Adding a lateral extra-articular procedure, regardless of the surgical technique, can reduce the failure rate without increasing the number of complications at the mid-term follow-up.

Study Registration:

PROSPERO (CRD42023458354).
CAR Practice Guideline on Bone Mineral Densitometry Reporting: 2024 Update
Authors: Burrell Steven , Desaulniers Melanie , Jen Ho , Maguire Conor , Stilwell Moira
Published: January 2025

This practice guideline serves as an update to the Canadian Association of Radiologists’ 2013 Technical Standards for Bone Mineral Densitometry Reporting. It aims to align bone mineral density testing and reporting practices in Canada with current clinical best practices, including guidelines from Osteoporosis Canada and the International Society for Clinical Densitometry. Key updates include the endorsement of both FRAX and CAROC tools for evaluating fracture risk, guidance for analyzing male patients and transgender patients, and provision of clinical management guidance of relevance to BMD reporting harmonized with that of Osteoporosis Canada. The document emphasizes the importance of accurate data collection in fracture risk assessment and provides recommendations for reporting fracture risk, T-scores, and clinical management strategies. Additionally, it outlines indications for baseline BMD testing and reassessment timelines, aiming to facilitate appropriate patient management and enhance bone health outcomes. This guideline is intended to complement existing standards and support healthcare professionals in delivering optimal care for patients undergoing BMD testing in Canada.
Multifunctional electrospinning periosteum: Development status and prospect
Authors: Zhu Jinli , Li Meifeng , Yang Shuoshuo , Zou Yang , Lv Yonggang
Published: January 2025

In the repair of large bone defects, loss of the periosteum can result in diminished osteoinductive activity, nonunion, and incomplete regeneration of the bone structure, ultimately compromising the efficiency of bone regeneration. Therefore, the research and development of tissue-engineered periosteum which can replace the periosteum function has become the focus of current research. The functionalized electrospinning periosteum is expected to mimic the natural periosteum and enhance bone repair processes more effectively. This review explores the construction strategies for functionalized electrospun periosteum from the following perspectives: ⅰ) bioactive factor modification (bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) etc.), ⅱ) inorganic compound modification, ⅲ) drug modification, ⅳ) artificial periosteum in response to physical stimuli. Furthermore, the construction of artificial periosteum through electrospinning, in conjunction with other strategies, is also analyzed. Finally, the current challenges and prospects for the development of electrospinning periosteum are also discussed.
Salvadora persica nanoparticles effect on the specific properties of a bio-composite dental material
Authors: Chaaben Rihem , Mnif Basma , Elleuch Khaled
Published: January 2025

The aim of this study is to evaluate the antibacterial activity of dental material containing nanoparticles of the extract of S. persica against Streptococcus pneumonia, Streptococcus mutans and Haemophilus influenza, and to examine their triboligical and mechanical properties. The specific properties of flowable dental material containing different percentage of the extract are investigated using the below different kinds of tests: - Antibacterial activity (including agar diffusion test), - Tribological behavior (including a pin-on-disk tribometer, surface profilometer and scanning electron microscopy (SEM)), - Mechanical behavior (including compressive strength, bending strength and bending modulus). The agar diffusion test reveals significant difference between the samples, whereas the antibacterial one demonstrates that the bacterial growth is diminished by increasing the nanoparticle content. The bending strength and the bending modulus remain unchanged by a 10% incorporation of the nanoparticles while the compressive strength increases significantly. The extract containing resins show higher wear resistance. The production of dental material with antibacterial activity, with suitable wear resistance, and particularly without any significant sacrificing effect on the mechanical properties is practically desirable in dental material science.
Retrospective Analysis of Ceftriaxone 1 Gram or 2 Grams for Bacteremia
Authors: Park Jae Hee , Zhao Alan , Bain Rachel , Hassani Bessma , Tang Christina
Published: January 2025

Background: Ceftriaxone is a third-generation cephalosporin commonly used for treating bacteremia caused by gram-positive organisms such as Streptococcus spp. and gram-negative organisms such as Enterobacterales. The typical doses for treating bacteremia are either 1 gram or 2 grams daily. Despite its widespread use, there are limited data on the optimal treatment dose for bacteremia. Methods: This IRB-approved retrospective cohort study evaluated the difference in the clinical failure rate among patients who received 1 gram or 2 grams of ceftriaxone once daily for documented bacteremia. Clinical failure was defined as a composite of the following: antibiotic escalation, escalation to intensive care, and 30-day readmission due to an infectious cause. Adult patients admitted to Long Island Jewish (LIJ) Valley Stream, LIJ Forest Hills, or LIJ Medical Center in 2022 who received ceftriaxone were reviewed for inclusion. Patients were excluded if they received ceftriaxone for endocarditis or meningitis, had a positive blood culture with a ceftriaxone-resistant pathogen, or received ceftriaxone for less than 72 hours. Results: A total of 128 patients were included in this study. Approximately 46.9% of the participants received a 1 gram dose, while 53.2% received a 2 gram dose. 35.4% of patients in the 2 gram group experienced clinical failure compared to 21.7% in the 1 gram group ( P = .08, OR 0.51; 95% CI 0.23-1.11). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the primary outcome of clinical failure did not significantly differ between the 1 gram and 2 gram doses.
Synthesis and characterization of new polyarylate containing phthalazinone moiety
Authors: Liu Zeyuan , Liu Qian , Xu Peiqi , Wang Zhaoqi , Wang Danhui , Jian Xigao , Zhang Shouhai
Published: January 2025

Novel polyarylates containing phthalazinone moieties (PAR-PH) were synthesized and characterized by co-solvent interfacial polymerization based on 4-(4′-hydroxyphenyl)-2,3-phthalazin-1-one (DHPZ) and isophthaloyl chloride (IPC). Effects of inorganic bases, monomer concentration, phase transfer catalysts and co-solvents on the interfacial polymerization reaction were investigated. When the organic phase solvent was cyclohexane with 3% butanone and 18-crown-6 was the phase transfer catalyst, PAR-PH achieved a maximum intrinsic viscosity ( η int) up to 0.52 dL/g. For some organic phase solvents of alkanes and chlorinated hydrocarbons, the addition of co-solvents increased the η int of the polymer. PAR-PH exhibit excellent thermal resistance due to the introduction of rigid twisted phthalazinone moieties into the polymer main chains, with glass transition temperature ( T g) of 275°C. The 5% thermal weight loss temperature of PAR-PH was 463°C in N2 and residual mass ratios at 800°C of 52.0%, demonstrating excellent thermal stability.
Experimental study on cutting force and surface quality of Aramid fiber reinforced polymer based on minimum quantity lubrication
Authors: Wang Lin , Li Na , Shi Wentian , Li Ru , Bu Kunting , Zhang Hanyu
Published: January 2025

In order to explore the milling mechanism of aramid fiber reinforced polymer under minimal quantity lubrication and improve the milling quality of aramid fiber reinforced polymer, the milling experiments of aramid fiber reinforced polymer were carried out under dry cutting and minimal quantity lubrication, and the cutting force, fiber section, and surface quality were compared and analyzed. The experiment results show that in the dry cutting state, the surface burr is more, the surface quality is poor, the fiber section is rough, and the resin matrix has a melting trend, accompanied by the phenomenon of chip wrapping around the tool, tooltip collapse, and coating peeling. In minimal quantity lubrication, the surface burr is reduced, the surface quality is good, the fiber section is neat, and the resin interface is clean and tidy. The resin matrix has no melting trend, the tooltip is only slightly worn, and the phenomenon of chip entanglement is effectively avoided. Further research shows that the minimal quantity lubrication can reduce the temperature and friction, enhance the stiffness of the fiber, and change the fracture model of the fiber to a certain extent, that is, from bending to tensile fracture (or accompanied by tensile phenomenon) to shear fracture, which also leads to the overall high cutting force. The total milling force synthesized by the average value increases from 2.45 N to 20.93 N, with a maximum increase of 88.29%. However, due to the cooling and friction reduction of the lubricating fluid and the chip removal and diversion, the overall fluctuation of the cutting force under the minimal quantity lubrication condition is reduced. The overall cutting force is more stable than that under dry cutting conditions. The results show that the milling quality is improved under minimal quantity lubrication, the cutting force is more significant but more stable, and the milling process is more stable. This study has important reference significance for milling composites (especially resin matrix composites) under the condition of minimal quantity lubrication.
Hysteresis modeling and experimental research of pneumatic constant force grinding system based on GRU neural network
Authors: Yongjiang Chen , Yujie Jing , Feiyu Shen , Jingkai Sun
Published: January 2025

The pneumatic constant force grinding system has attracted a lot of attention in the fields of robot grinding. However, the hysteresis behavior of the pneumatic constant force grinding system has multi-valued mapping characteristics and dynamic characteristics related to the frequency and amplitude of the input signal. Aiming at the hysteresis problem of pneumatic constant force device, a gated recurrent unit neural network (GRU) modeling method based on Bayesian optimization is proposed, and the effectiveness of the modeling method is verified by experiments. The ability of the model to describe the hysteresis behavior of the system and the force control performance and polishing effect based on the model are analyzed by experiments. The results show that the GRU model has better description ability for the hysteresis behavior related to amplitude and frequency than the rational Bezier curve fitting method (BCM). Through the grinding test, it can be seen that the output constant force fluctuation range based on the GRU neural network model is −1 ~ 1 N. With the increase of the grinding force, the surface roughness and morphology of the specimen are improved, and the average surface roughness is reduced by 23.79 % at most.
Effect of floor acceleration on occupant’s lower limb injury and its protective measures study
Authors: Qin Lingyun , Yang Shuyi , Chen Zhewu , Xiang Jiayou , Ouyang Jianhao , Dai Juchuan , Wang Guosheng
Published: January 2025

The floor acceleration under a vehicle under-belly blast will directly endanger the safety of the occupant’s lower limbs. A novel lower limb protection device was proposed to reduce the damage to the occupant’s lower limbs during a blast event. First, a local equivalent model of the occupant-restraint system was established, and drop impact tests validated its accuracy. Then, taking the triangular wave as an example, the influence laws of velocity difference, pulse peak, and pulse width on the occupant’s lower limb injury were investigated to guide the design of lower limb protection devices. On this basis, a novel lower limb protection device was proposed, and structural parameter sensitivity analysis was carried out. Finally, structural optimization has been carried out to further improve the protection performance of the lower limb protection device. The results showed that the proposed new lower limb protection device could effectively reduce the impact acceleration transmitted to the occupant’s feet and provide effective protection for the occupant’s lower limbs. Compared with the initial design, the optimized lower limb protection device reduced the left and right lower tibial peak forces by 26.19% and 29.32%, respectively, and the total mass decreased by 50.7%.
Innovative on-off yaw dampers with switchable dynamic stiffness for enhanced stability of high-speed railway vehicles
Authors: Huang Caihong , Zeng Jing
Published: January 2025

The parameters of traditional yaw dampers are typically determined during the vehicle dynamics design stage based on specific wheel and rail profiles. However, dampers with fixed parameters often struggle to effectively mitigate hunting motions due to the significant variations in wheel-rail contact conditions encountered during operation. Unlike the traditional method of adjusting dynamic damping, the goal of this work is to propose an innovative on-off yaw damper that can realize switchable low and high dynamic stiffness, and thus has the ability to suppress both low-frequency carbody hunting and high-frequency bogie hunting under different wheel-rail conicity conditions. First, the working principle of the damper is detailed, highlighting switchable dynamic stiffness in two selectable modes. A physical model is then developed to study the damper’s dynamic characteristics under different combinations of excitation frequency and amplitude. The results reveal a substantial difference in dynamic stiffness between the two modes, with a 74% variance, while dynamic damping remains largely unaffected. A new parameter, termed dynamic stiffness difference, is introduced to describe the frequency-dependent stiffness property of the damper, and its sensitivity to damper parameters is explored, providing insights for design optimization. Finally, numerical simulations demonstrate that the on-off yaw damper significantly improves both low and high conicity stability, thereby enhancing overall vehicle stability across a wide range of wheel-rail contact conditions.
Practical prescribed-time sliding-mode output feedback tracking control for heterogeneous vehicle platoon
Authors: Yu Yong , Song Zhankui , Meng Huimin
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes a new output feedback tracking control for platoon systems of heterogeneous vehicles subject to nonlinear disturbances. First, a distributed prescribed-time extended-state observer (PTESO) is presented to estimate the unmeasurable system states and nonlinear disturbances. On this basis, a practical prescribed-time sliding-mode output feedback control (PPTSMC) law is designed, such that the constructed closed-loop system always guarantees its preset performance ability regardless of the initial conditions. Finally, the effectiveness and superiority of the developed method are verified by theoretical analysis and simulation.
Ginsenoside Re suppresses high glucose-induced apoptosis of placental trophoblasts through endoplasmic reticulum stress-related CHOP/GADD153
Authors: Zeng Guihong , Zou Weiyang , Liu Changdi , Chen Yulan , Wen Tingmei
Published: January 2025

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a metabolic disorder that arises during pregnancy and heightens the risk of placental dysplasia. Ginsenoside Re (Re) may stabilize insulin and glucagon to regulate glucose levels, which may improve diabetes-associated diseases. Purpose: This study aims to investigate the mechanism of Re in high glucose (HG)-induced apoptosis of trophoblasts through endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-related protein CHOP/GADD153. Research Design: Human trophoblast cells HTR-8/SVneo were treated with HG to simulate the HG environment in vitro, while normal glucose (NG) was used as the control. Study Sample: NG (5 mM) or HG (25 mM)-cultured HTR-8/SVneo cells were treated with 10, 20 or 40 μM Re. HG-cultured cells were treated with 5 mM ERS inducer 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) and transfected with oe- CHO. Data Collection and/or Analysis: Cell viability and apoptosis were detected by CCK-8 and flow cytometry; LDH release, superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels were detected using kits; the apoptosisrelated proteins and ERS-related proteins were assessed by western blot. Results: Re (10, 20 or 40 μM) had no significant effect on NG-treated HTR-8/SVneo cell viability. Re (20 or 40 μM) could enhance the viability of HG-treated trophoblasts. Re (40 μM) inhibited apoptosis of HGtreated trophoblasts, ERS and alleviated oxidative stress evidenced by suppressed phosphorylation of PERK, IRE1α, reduced protein expression of ATF6, CHOP/GADD153, and inhibited MDA accumulation, GSH and SOD loss. ERS activation or CHOP/GADD153 overexpression reversed Re’s inhibition on HG-induced apoptosis of trophoblasts. Conclusions: Re repressed HG-induced placental trophoblast apoptosis by mediating ERS-related protein CHOP/GADD153.
Study of Placental Pathology in IUGR and IUD Foetuses
Authors: Ramya Chitturi , Lakshmi Chavali Venkata , Padma Madana , Parasa Gayatri Devi , Sucharitha Pathivada , Sivajyosthna Suratha
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Maternal, placental and foetal factors together or in isolation influence the well-being of the foetus. The two most important causes of intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) and intrauterine death (IUD) are placental factors and hypoxemia.

Material & Methods:

The present study was a prospective study conducted in the Department of Pathology. Placentas of IUD and IUGR cases were collected and routinely processed.

Results:

There were a total of 52 placentas, 40 from IUD cases and 12 from IUGR cases. Gross infarction was identified in 13.46% cases and microscopic infarction in 23.1% cases which were the most common findings.

Conclusion:

Chorioamnionitis was the most common histological finding in both IUGR and IUD cases. Careful examination of the placenta is necessary in IUD and IUGR cases.
Creating futures out of the conference: 20 years of strengthening mental health capacity in the Pacific
Authors: Ryan Brigid , McHugh Jennifer , Crookes Annie E
Published: January 2025

Creating Futures (CF) is an independent, collaborative taskforce supported by in-kind commitments from organisations and practitioners. This paper summarises CF 2023 themes and provides an overview of 20 years of CF activities. It highlights challenges and opportunities to integrate global mental health partnerships and regional mental health projects. CF promotes a partnership model which has created an important space for dialogue, publications, training, and peer-to-peer support. This improves visibility of the Pacific voices and brings out a more nuanced discussion of the complexities of mental health capacity building, leading to informed and sustainable developments in mental health care.
A systematic review of reasons for and against euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide in older people with a non-terminal condition
Authors: Baée James , Draper Brian , Wijeratne Chanaka
Published: January 2025

Objective

Some European jurisdictions have legalised euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide (EUT/PAS) for people with dementia and ‘multiple geriatric syndromes’. We therefore sought to determine the published rationales for and against providing EUT/PAS to older people without a terminal illness.

Method

A systematic review was undertaken according to PRISMA guidelines. Content, thematic and discourse analyses were used to identify papers that delineated ethical arguments for and against the provision of EUT/PAS to older people without a terminal illness, and to synthesise arguments into overarching themes.

Results

Seventeen studies were included, eight of which were written by medical practitioners, the rest by ethicists. All but two of the papers were written by authors from western nations. A total of 70 arguments were identified, 16 (22.9%) being in favour of EUT/PAS, and 54 (77.1%) against. The themes identified were: a person with dementia had a duty to die, precedent capacity, ageism, abuse/coercion, psychological factors, healthcare economics, sociocultural factors and legislation.

Conclusion

Despite broad scepticism about the provision of EUT/PAS to older people without a terminal illness, the literature is preliminary. There is a need for ethicists and policymakers to engage with a range of older people with physical, cognitive and social needs, as well as their supporters.
A semi-supervised fault diagnosis method for ventilation fan using multi-head attention-enhanced generative adversarial network
Authors: Xu Ruoqin , Chang Kai , Xia Yudong , Zhao Ju , Ding Qiang
Published: January 2025

Ventilation fans are widely used in industry factories and commercial buildings. After experiencing a long-time operation, fans are prone to abnormalities resulting in system performance degradation, energy waste, and even safety issues. Recent works have shown that the machine learning-based techniques outperform most of the traditional vibration signal-based diagnostic method. However, the insufficient number of fault training samples has become the main obstacle for the supervised fault diagnosis. Therefore, in order to improve the fault diagnosis performance with imbalanced training dataset, this paper reports a multi-head self-attention enhanced semi-supervised generative adversarial network (MSA-SGAN) method for ventilation fans. The original unsupervised GAN was improved to a semi-supervised GAN (SGAN) and thus the ability of multi-classification could be achieved. In addition, the SGAN was enhanced by integrating multi-head self-attention (MSA), which allows for increased emphasis on relevant and significant features. An experimental system was established, and different types of fan fault were simulated. Using the experimental data, the fault diagnosis model based on the proposed MSA-SGAN was trained and validated. Results showed that the proposed fault diagnosis method exhibited an excellent performance including overall accuracy, recall, and precision as compared to the other traditional methods. In the case of the imbalanced dataset, the proposed method shows superior performance compared to other traditional supervised and semi-supervised methods.
Uniqueness of solutions in the boundary value problems of bending of thin micropolar plates with surface effects
Authors: Gharahi Alireza
Published: January 2025

We propose a micropolar thin plate theory that incorporates surface elasticity effects to take into account simultaneously the contribution of high surface-to-volume ratios and the influence of microstructural mechanics at micro/nano scales. Using a direct averaging approach across the plate’s thickness, we derive governing equations that consider the elastic properties of the upper and lower surfaces, treated as two-dimensional micropolar bodies. The boundary value problems are analyzed, with particular attention to solution uniqueness, as a first step toward establishing the well-posedness of the model. A simplified example demonstrates the mathematical formulation and compares the results with classical plate theory. A numerical example highlights the combined effects of surface elasticity and micropolar characteristics as the plate thickness varies, illustrating the influence of these factors on effective bending stiffness. The results reveal that surface and micropolar effects contribute to deformations by varying magnitudes, depending on material properties and plate size.
Rare Cell Population Analysis in Early-Stage Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Schreier Stefan , Budchart Prapaphan , Borwornpinyo Suparerk , Adireklarpwong Lakkana , Chirappapha Prakasit , Triampo Wannapong , Lertsithichai Panuwat
Published: January 2025

Background:

Circulating rare cells participate in breast cancer evolution as systemic components of the disease and thus, are a source of theranostic information. Exploration of cancer-associated rare cells is in its infancy.

Objectives:

We aimed to investigate and classify abnormalities in the circulating rare cell population among early-stage breast cancer patients using fluorescence marker identification and cytomorphology. In addition, we sought to determine the dependency of these markers on the presence of tumors.

Design:

We evaluated the validity of a multi-rare-cell detection platform and demonstrated the utility of a specific rare cell subset as a novel approach to characterize the breast cancer system. Sampling was conducted both before and after tumor resection.

Methods:

Linearity of the Rarmax platform was established using a spike-in approach. The platform includes red blood cell lysis, leukocyte depletion and high-resolution fluorescence image recording. Rare cell analysis was conducted on 28 samples (before and after surgery) from 14 patients with breast cancer, 20 healthy volunteers and 9 noncancer control volunteers. In-depth identification of rare cells, including circulating tumor cells, endothelial-like cells, erythroblasts, and inflammation-associated cells, was performed using a phenotype and morphology-based classification system.

Results:

The platform performed linearly over a range of 5 to 950 spiked cells, with an average recovery of 84.6%. Circulating epithelial and endothelial-like cell subsets have been demonstrated to be associated with or independent of cancer with tumor presence. Furthermore, certain cell profile patterns may be associated with treatment-related adverse effects. The sensitivity in detecting tumor-presence and cancer-associated abnormality before surgery was 43% and 85.7%, respectively, and the specificity was 100% and 96.6%, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study supports the idea of a cancer-associated rare cell abnormality to represent tumor entities as well as systemic cancer. The latter is independent of the apparent clinical cancer.
Underwater sound absorption characteristics of the acoustic metamaterials with multiple coupling substructure
Authors: Shi Kangkang , Li Dongsheng , Hu Dongsen , Yu Xiaoli , Ding Canlong , Jin Guoyong
Published: January 2025

The lateral plates are usually used in the field of structural design of acoustic metamaterials (AMs), which can realize the control of AMs on sound waves. Presently, researches on the application of AMs with lateral plates mainly focus on the regulation of sound waves in air media, and rarely involve the research on their underwater acoustic properties. Therefore, a composite acoustic structure is designed by inserting regularly distributed lateral plates into the viscoelastic rubber, and then, the AMs with multiple coupling substructure (AMs-MCS) can be obtained through combining the local resonance structure and functional gradient structure. Based on underwater acoustic calculation model for the functional gradient acoustic structure established by grade finite element method (G-FEM), the underwater sound absorption characteristics of the AMs-MCS are studied, and the influence of each substructure on the acoustic performance of the AMs-MCS is explored. Numerical results indicate inserting gradient-distributed multiple lateral plates inside the homogeneous acoustic structure can improve the sound absorption performance of the acoustic structure in the mid-and high-frequency ranges and the sound absorption frequency band of the acoustic structure can be effectively broadened. Moreover, the sound absorption coefficient of the AMs-MCS is greater than 0.8 at 500Hz-10 kHz, and the average sound absorption coefficient reaches 0.893, thus achieving low-frequency and broadband sound absorption performance.
Examining Health and Social Support Among University Housekeepers: A Mixed-Methods Exploratory Study
Authors: Das Bhibha M. , Jensen Jakob F. , Johnston Carol M.
Published: January 2025

This pilot, exploratory project examined the relationship among the health, work, and social support of university housekeepers. The first objective was to examine the influence of social support on work-related outcomes among university housekeepers. The secondary objective was to examine the influence of social support on physical and psychological health among housekeepers. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study assessed work-related outcomes and the influence of social support using least square regression models and multinomial logistic regression models. Qualitative data was obtained via one-on-one interviews. Participants (N = 46, 72% female; 87.2% Black) averaged 4.43 ± 0.72 for job satisfaction with stress levels occasionally high for most of the sample (75%). Support was moderate across all three types of support with the highest perceived support in tangible support (2.85 ± 0.52). Four major themes emerged from the interviews, including lack of support and trust from supervisors and administrators; lack of respect from other members of the university community; need for positive recognition; and impact of the job on health. Findings revealed that when housekeepers feel they belong and are appreciated at work, they feel more positive about their jobs and likely do better work. Housekeepers and their work are critical to students, faculty, and staff in the university system. Future research should examine existing health issues and assess for factors contributing to physical or mental health treatment, especially post-COVID. Universities should invest in wellness programming and policies supporting mental health leave to improve overall well-being and stress in this under-resourced population.
Modeling and thermal property of multi-layer warp knitted spacer fabrics
Authors: Zhou Binhong , Li Xinxin , Tang Zehua , Liu Yanping , Wang Rongwu , Dou Guanxian
Published: January 2025

With its unique three-dimensional structure, high porosity, and lightweight, warp-knitted spacer fabric (WKSF) is an excellent insulation material. Multilayer fabric is an effective solution for better heat control, meeting the different requirements of a wide range of applications in the field of temperature control. To know the relationship between structural parameters and heat conductivity, this study highlighted the heat transfer mechanism of multilayer WKSFs. Experimental WKSF samples were fabricated in a double needle bar warp knitting machine and had mesh and plain side layers, different thicknesses of 3 mm, 4 mm, and 4.7 mm. These samples were grouped into multilayer systems by changing thickness and contacting modes between two samples. Experimental results show that the number of layers and the type of contact between the layers affects the internal thermal convection of the multilayer system and thus has a significant effect on its thermal resistance. Also, the WKSF thickness plays a role in the thermal resistance of the multilayer system. To further clarify the heat conducting behavior from a microscopic perspective, a geometry model of multilayer WKSFs and transfer of heat physical field was constructed to perform finite element simulation by ANSYS. By comparing the simulation results with the test results, the established simulation model was practical and it was found that the heat transfer paths of multilayer WKSFs were affected by the distribution of media with different thermal conductivities. The research provides a theoretical reference for studies on thermal insulation materials.
Harmonising Theory: Integrating Singing With Grounded Theory Methods
Authors: Densley Belinda , Dickson-Swift Virginia , Mills Jane
Published: January 2025

The integration of singing and song with established grounded theory methods offers readers unique methodological insights. Readers will be guided through the process of including singing and song within grounded theory methods using a worked example that explores the facilitator factors in group singing. We detail innovative approaches to research design including data generation, analysis and dissemination of findings. Specific examples will illustrate how singing and song can be incorporated into interviews, participatory workshops, coding, memo writing, and for the enhancement of theoretical sensitivity. Additionally, we introduce novel concepts such as practice-informed research, song reaching, and song fragments, and explore their implications for developing a grounded theory of group singing. Finally, we offer recommendations for using singing and song in the teaching and application of grounded theory methods.
Adapting and validating the satisfaction, alertness, timing, efficiency, and duration-breast cancer (SATED-BC) scale for measuring sleep health in Spanish women treated for breast cancer
Authors: González-Santos Ángela , Lozano-Lozano Mario , Cantarero-Villanueva Irene , Postigo-Martín Paula , Martín-Martín Lydia , Gil-Gutiérrez Rocío , Muelas-Lobato Roberto , Lopez-Garzon Maria
Published: January 2025

Background:

After breast cancer (BC), women may face other severe symptoms such as sleep problems. The use of simple, fast, and reliable scales is necessary in the clinic to improve patient benefits, and sleep is an important aspect to be addressed.

Objective:

This study was conducted to adapt and validate the Spanish version of the satisfaction, alertness, timing, efficiency, and duration (SATED) scale for measuring sleep health in women who have completed treatment for BC in Spain (SATED-BC).

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

The adaptation process involved adding a sixth item to the SATED-BC scale: “the impact of symptoms experienced after completing breast cancer treatment on sleep” item was not considered for scoring. The SATED-BC score ranged from 0 (poorest sleep health) to 10 (best sleep health). A validation analysis was performed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Consensus Sleep Diary, and actigraphy, and the results were compared with those obtained using the SATED-BC scale.

Results:

The SATED-BC scale was reliable in terms of its internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.70; McDonald’s ω = 0.72), showed high intrasubject reliability ( r = 0.90), and was shown to be valid for use in women who have completed treatment for breast cancer.

Conclusion:

The SATED-BC scale is a reliable and valid tool for comprehensively evaluating sleep health in women who have completed treatment for breast cancer.
Navigating the Beauty Bind: Young People’s Intersectional Perspectives on Appearance, Privilege and Inequality
Authors: Johnston Josée , Foster Jordan
Published: January 2025

The digital age exposes young people to a celebrity-saturated ‘beauty regime’ that reinforces ideals of physical perfection. Cultural sociologists and feminist scholars have highlighted the role of appearance as an important dimension of social stratification and demonstrated the prominence of celebrity images in popular culture and everyday imaginings. While beauty is increasingly recognized as an important element of culture and inequality, research is lacking on how young people understand the contemporary beauty regime and its intersectional complexities. This study explores how diverse Canadian youth navigate this complex landscape, focusing on their interpretations of beauty icon and billionaire Kylie Jenner. We draw from focus groups centred on the following question: How do young people understand beauty and its relationship to privilege and inequality? Our discussions highlight the intersectional nature of beauty and reveal three antinomies that young people navigate in the current beauty regime: (1) an aesthetic tension between fake and natural beauty; (2) a relational tension between elite beauty and democratic accessibility, and (3) a moral tension between looking good and being bad. The beauty bind describes the delicate balancing act young people face when navigating these tensions. Through an intersectional analysis, we aim to deepen scholarly understanding of beauty culture’s evolving dynamics, young people’s understandings of a celebritized beauty regime, and how beauty emerges as a powerful ideal that commands attention even as it often feels painfully out of reach.
Surrendering to ‘too powerful’ technologies: From the F-111 to the MQ-28 Ghost-Bat drone
Authors: Brimblecombe-Fox Kathryn
Published: January 2025

Against a background of contemporary hyperconnected warfare and accelerating advances in drone/robotic systems, this article discusses the airborne drone in relation to concepts of surrender, both historic and contemporary, literal and metaphoric. Drawing upon Paul Virilio’s (2002[1991]) observation that, during the first Gulf War, ‘technologies employed are too powerful’, the author examines how continuing military aspirations for technological speed and lethality represent surrender to the lure of techno-power. Two incidents of human beings surrendering to drones, in Kuwait in 1991 and in Ukraine in 2023, anchor an exploration of literal and metaphoric surrender implications. This discussion is expanded through a military aviation history lens and an art historical perspective. The latter includes close visual and contextual analyses of James Rosenquist’s 1964–1965 painting F-111 and the author’s multi-piece 2022–2023 painting Ghost Bat.
Treatment-related mortality in head and neck cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and radiation: results of a meta-analysis of published trials
Authors: Gurizzan Cristina , Cinquini Michela , Legramandi Lorenzo , Resteghini Carlo , Siano Marco , Bergamini Cristiana , Lorini Luigi , Smussi Davide , Paderno Alberto , Licitra Lisa , Bossi Paolo
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

A combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is employed in the curative and postoperative treatment of locally advanced head and neck cancers (HNC). Integrated chemoradiation (CRT) treatments result in a non-negligible rate of severe toxic effects. Treatment-related death (TRD) is a crucial topic for physicians involved in the curative treatment of HNC. This meta-analysis aimed to better address TRD in locally advanced HNC patients treated with CRT through available and relevant literature.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA statement. The studies fulfilling these criteria included the following: concurrent or alternating CRT; both radical and postoperative settings; published from 2000 to 2020; involving 100+ patients; and available toxicity data. TRD was defined as death occurring from CRT start until a month from the end of CRT. Potential TRD predictors were evaluated.

Results:

In all, 65 studies were retrieved, with a total of 235 TRDs reported accounting for an overall risk rate of 1.4%. At meta-regression analysis, T stage and neutropenia grade >3 were potential predictors of higher TRD risk, both in univariate and multivariate analyses. Considering only the studies reporting at least one event, laryngeal/hypopharyngeal, oral cavity subsites and renal failure were significant predictors for TRD. The oropharyngeal subsite was protective in both analyses. None of the predictors proved to be independently correlated with TRD at multivariable analysis.

Conclusion:

CRT in HNC resulted in 1.4% of TRDs. TRD rate reduction may imply better patient selection and more intensive supportive care programs.
A case report on acute combined poisoning of Indoxacarb and Novoluron and its management
Authors: Chitithoti Rohita , Sai Supraja Chopparapu , Sreelekha Danaboyina , Adusumilli Sri Lakshmi Sai Meghana , Veerareddy Ramireddy , Santosh Puppala
Published: January 2025

In India, it is not uncommon for individuals to attempt suicide by ingesting pesticides. Though several publications have reported cases, there are no specific guidelines for managing indoxacarb poisoning. There is no established antidote for indoxacarb poisoning; however, early recognition and treatment of methemoglobinaemia, the primary manifestation, is essential. Early intervention is crucial for a positive outcome. Methemoglobinaemia can be successfully treated with methylene blue, which serves as the first line of management. This case report describes a 24-year-old man presenting with methemoglobinaemia following the ingestion of indoxacarb combined with novaluron and was successfully treated with early administration of methylene blue, leading to rapid recovery despite a methaemoglobin level as high as 75%.
Certolizumab pegol in severe hidradenitis suppurativa in pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Gisondi Paolo , Montalto Elena , Curic Tea , Danese Elisabetta , Bellinato Francesco , Girolomoni Giampiero
Published: January 2025

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin with a suppurative-cicatricial outcome affecting the infundibular component of the pilo-sebaceous unit. The lesions are typically localized in the intertriginous and apocrine gland-rich areas. Hidradenitis suppurativa mainly affects patients at a young age and is very often refractory to conventional medical treatment. During pregnancy, the management of hidradenitis suppurativa becomes demanding due to the need of safety therapies. Certolizumab pegol is a pegylated monoclonal TNF-α inhibitor that lacks the fragment crystallizable region preventing active placental transfer and could be used in pregnancy and lactation if clinically needed and is label for chronic plaque psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease. Herein, we describe a case of a 32-year-old pregnant woman with Hurley stage III hidradenitis suppurativa successfully treated with certolizumab pegol.