bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid–liquid phase transition simulated by the lattice Boltzmann model: from pore scale to representative elementary volume scale
Authors: Li Dong , Zhou Yu , Cao Zhan-Wei , Chen Xin , Dai Jia-Peng
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to establish a lattice Boltzmann (LB) method for solid-liquid phase transition (SLPT) from the pore scale to the representative elementary volume (REV) scale. By applying this method, detailed information about heat transfer and phase change processes within the pores can be obtained, while also enabling the calculation of larger-scale SLPT problems, such as shell-and-tube phase change heat storage systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Three-dimensional (3D) pore-scale enthalpy-based LB model is developed. The computational input parameters at the REV scale are derived from calculations at the pore scale, ensuring consistency between the two scales. The approaches to reconstruct the 3D porous structure and determine the REV of metal foam were discussed. The implementation of conjugate heat transfer between the solid matrix and the solid−liquid phase change material (SLPCM) for the proposed model is developed. A simple REV-scale LB model under the local thermal nonequilibrium condition is presented. The method of bridging the gap between the pore-scale and REV-scale enthalpy-based LB models by the REV is given.

Findings

This coupled method facilitates detailed simulations of flow, heat transfer and phase change within pores. The approach holds promise for multiscale calculations in latent heat storage devices with porous structures. The SLPT of the heat sinks for electronic device thermal control was simulated as a case, demonstrating the efficiency of the present models in designing and optimizing SLPT devices.

Originality/value

A coupled pore-scale and REV-scale LB method as a numerical tool for investigating phase change in porous materials was developed. This innovative approach allows for the capture of details within pores while addressing computations over a large domain. The LB method for simulating SLPT from the pore scale to the REV scale was given. The proposed method addresses the conjugate heat transfer between the SLPCM and the solid matrix in the enthalpy-based LB model.
Factors affecting judicial system efficiency: a systematic mapping review with a focus on Italy
Authors: Giancotti Monica , Rotundo Giorgia , Mauro Marianna
Published: April 2024

Purpose

European justice systems are facing a dramatic performance crisis due to the frequent inability to resolve cases without incurring unreasonable delays and backlogs. In this framework, the Italian Judicial system places itself well below the European countries average, in terms of speed of resolution of administrative, civil and criminal trials. The purpose of the paper was to (1) identify factors affecting Italian judicial system efficiency and (2) identify potential actions to manage them, improving judicial system efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to achieve the aims of this paper, a systematic review to map all critical factors discussed in previous studies was performed. Studies were extracted from Google Scholar, Web of Science and SSRN databases. In total, 22 studies were included.

Findings

The identified factors of inefficiency of the Italian judicial system have been divided into three macro-classes depending on whether they concern human resource management, the judicial process or whether they pertain to internal or external outside the judicial organization. For each of these, possible strategies have been developed in a new conceptual framework.

Originality/value

The framework seeks to assist policymakers in forming policy measures that can significantly increase court effectiveness. This is the first attempt to review and map all factors affecting judicial system efficiency systematically, providing a new conceptual framework to manage them.
Creditworthiness pattern prediction and detection for GCC Islamic banks using machine learning techniques
Authors: Shilbayeh Samar , Grassa Rihab
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Bank creditworthiness refers to the evaluation of a bank’s ability to meet its financial obligations. It is an assessment of the bank’s financial health, stability and capacity to manage risks. This paper aims to investigate the credit rating patterns that are crucial for assessing creditworthiness of the Islamic banks, thereby evaluating the stability of their industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Three distinct machine learning algorithms are exploited and evaluated for the desired objective. This research initially uses the decision tree machine learning algorithm as a base learner conducting an in-depth comparison with the ensemble decision tree and Random Forest. Subsequently, the Apriori algorithm is deployed to uncover the most significant attributes impacting a bank’s credit rating. To appraise the previously elucidated models, a ten-fold cross-validation method is applied. This method involves segmenting the data sets into ten folds, with nine used for training and one for testing alternatively ten times changeable. This approach aims to mitigate any potential biases that could arise during the learning and training phases. Following this process, the accuracy is assessed and depicted in a confusion matrix as outlined in the methodology section.

Findings

The findings of this investigation reveal that the Random Forest machine learning algorithm superperforms others, achieving an impressive 90.5% accuracy in predicting credit ratings. Notably, our research sheds light on the significance of the loan-to-deposit ratio as a primary attribute affecting credit rating predictions. Moreover, this study uncovers additional pivotal banking features that intensely impact the measurements under study. This paper’s findings provide evidence that the loan-to-deposit ratio looks to be the purest bank attribute that affects credit rating prediction. In addition, deposit-to-assets ratio and profit sharing investment account ratio criteria are found to be effective in credit rating prediction and the ownership structure criterion came to be viewed as one of the essential bank attributes in credit rating prediction.

Originality/value

These findings contribute significant evidence to the understanding of attributes that strongly influence credit rating predictions within the banking sector. This study uniquely contributes by uncovering patterns that have not been previously documented in the literature, broadening our understanding in this field.
Online path planning of pork cutting robot using 3D laser point cloud
Authors: Liu Yi , Ning Rui , Du Mingxin , Yu Shuanghe , Yan Yan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an new online path planning method for porcine belly cutting. With the proliferation in demand for the automatic systems of pork production, the development of efficient and robust meat cutting algorithms are hot issues. The uncertain and dynamic nature of the online porcine belly cutting imposes a challenge for the robot to identify and cut efficiently and accurately. Based on the above challenges, an online porcine belly cutting method using 3D laser point cloud is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The robotic cutting system is composed of an industrial robotic manipulator, customized tools, a laser sensor and a PC.

Findings

Analysis of experimental results shows that by comparing with machine vision, laser sensor-based robot cutting has more advantages, and it can handle different carcass sizes.

Originality/value

An image pyramid method is used for dimensionality reduction of the 3D laser point cloud. From a detailed analysis of the outward and inward cutting errors, the outward cutting error is the limiting condition for reducing the segments by segmentation algorithm.
Effect of managers' sleep quality on authoritarian leadership dynamics and employees' counterproductive behavior
Authors: Jiang Rui , Lin Xinqi
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examines the antecedents and dynamics of authoritarian leadership and extends the effects of managers' sleep quality to employee behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

On the basis of self-regulation theory, 513 unit day samples were analyzed using cross-level path analysis and a Monte Carlo simulation test.

Findings

Managers' sleep quality is positively related to authoritarian leadership and positive emotions play a mediating role. Authoritarian leadership is positively related to employees' counterproductive behavior. Managers' sleep quality affects employees' counterproductive behavior through managers' positive emotions and authoritarian leadership.

Practical implications

Individuals should learn to reduce stress and maintain a positive mood. Organizations should reduce employees' overtime work and work stress and find other ways to improve employees' sleep quality.

Originality/value

First, we considered authoritarian leadership to be dynamic and studied it on a daily basis. Second, we studied the antecedents of authoritarian leadership from the perspective of leaders' states (sleep quality and emotions). Third, we discussed the effect of managers' sleep quality on employee behavior.
Auditor tenure and non-GAAP earnings
Authors: Kim Pureum , Son Myungsoo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether the newly available auditor tenure information is associated with non-GAAP earnings, as the recent requirement to disclose the initial year of auditor-client relationship in audit reports may give the impression that longer auditor tenure may be related to lower audit quality.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of firm-quarters from 2017 to 2020, the authors conduct both univariate and regression analyses. We use hand-collected data for auditor tenure, SEC comment letters, and non-GAAP variables.

Findings

First, the authors find that the likelihood of disclosing non-GAAP earnings monotonically increases with auditor tenure on a univariate basis. Second, auditor tenure is negatively associated with aggressive non-GAAP reporting. Third, the authors document evidence of aggressive reporting in general; that is, items excluded in calculating non-GAAP earnings are associated with future performance. However, the association declines with longer auditor tenure. Finally, the authors report evidence that the likelihood of receiving an SEC comment letter that contains non-GAAP comments decreases with longer auditor tenure.

Practical implications

The results show that regulators need to consider both GAAP and non-GAAP disclosures’ costs and benefits when enacting auditor tenure regulation. Investors can benefit from the findings in evaluating the quality of non-GAAP earnings. The findings are also relevant to the SEC when allocating limited resources in monitoring non-GAAP reporting.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study showing that auditor tenure is associated with the quality of non-GAAP earnings. Given that financial reporting quality should be understood as a comprehensive system comprising both mandatory and voluntary disclosures, this study complements the literature that examines the effect of auditor tenure on financial reporting quality using GAAP reporting.
An analytical approach to understanding construction cost overruns during COVID-19
Authors: Adepu Nikhitha , Kermanshachi Sharareh , Pamidimukkala Apurva , Nwakpuda Emily
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The building sector is vital to a nation’s economy, as it has a major influence on economic activity and growth, job creations and the advancement of infrastructure. Intricate challenges that are inherent in crises such as the COVID-19 outbreak lead to material scarcities, project delays, labor shortages, escalated expenses, funding challenges, regulatory obstacles and dwindling investment funds, all of which culminate in costs that are in excess of those budgeted. While numerous studies have explored the ramifications of COVID-19 on project budgets, there is little, if any, data available on forecasting the magnitude of this impact.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigation seeks to bridge this knowledge deficiency by devising a predictive tool grounded in an ordinal logistic regression method. An online survey was designed and disseminated to gauge the views of construction field experts about the diverse contributors to excessive costs during the viral outbreak, and a predictive tool, crafted from the survey participants’ feedback.

Findings

Findings showed that smaller-scale enterprises and contractor-centric establishments faced greater adversities than medium-to-large ones and consultancy-or-owner-type entities.

Originality/value

The insights from this research shed light on the amplified risk of higher project costs amid health crises or analogous events, underlining the imperative need for fortified risk management approaches to bolster project outcomes. By factoring in demographics, this research offers policymakers a refined lens through which to customize interventions and promote balanced and enduring advancement in the construction industry.
From metaverse experience to physical travel: the role of the digital twin in metaverse design
Authors: Deng Baolin , Wong IpKin Anthony , Lian Qi Lilith
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Designing an effective metaverse experience through a tourism digital-twin platform is crucial to the success of metaverse tourism. How such a digital-twin platform should appeal to target users, however, lacks exploration. The study aims to advance a conceptual contribution by successfully creating a metaverse experience through a well-designed digital-twin platform. It also aims to show how the design science approach in tourism can enrich our understanding of digital-twin platform design elements introduced in metaverse experience design.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by the design science approach in tourism, this research conceptualizes the role of digital-twin elements in metaverse experience design and proposes a one-factor between-subject experimental design to examine the effect.

Findings

This research conceptualizes how eight unique configurations of digital-twin design, which are embellished in two or three dimensions, shape tourists’ metaverse experience and physical travel intention.

Practical implications

The results offer operators clear strategic guidance on designing an effective tourism digital-twin platform.

Originality/value

This study not only identifies the impact of digital-twin platform design elements but also clarifies how such elements affect customers’ metaverse experiences.
Algorithmic Trading and Forward‐Looking MD&A Disclosures
Authors: THOMAS WAYNE B. , WANG YIDING , ZHANG LING
Published: April 2024

This study examines how algorithmic trading (AT) affects forward‐looking disclosures in Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) of annual reports. We predict and find evidence that AT relates negatively to modifications in year‐over‐year forward‐looking MD&A disclosures. This evidence is consistent with AT reducing investors’ demand for fundamental information, which reduces managers’ incentives to supply costly forward‐looking disclosures. Cross‐sectional tests provide additional evidence that this negative relation is more pronounced for firms with larger earnings surprises and those with losses. We further validate our conclusion by demonstrating that investors’ fundamental information searches are a channel through which AT affects forward‐looking disclosures. The conclusion is robust to using the SEC's Tick Size Pilot Program as an exogenous shock to AT and to using alternative disclosure measures (e.g., tone revisions and number of sentences in forward‐looking MD&A disclosures). Overall, our study demonstrates that AT is a contributing factor to regulators’ concerns over the diminishing usefulness of forward‐looking information in MD&A disclosures.
Potential impacts of the Common Agricultural Policy's Income Stabilisation Tool on farmers' incomes and crop diversity: A French case study
Authors: Louhichi Kamel , Merisier Daël
Published: April 2024

This paper analyses the potential impacts of a hypothetical implementation of the Income Stabilisation Tool (IST) in France for the field crops sector. The IST is a risk management tool available within the 2014–2020 Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to support farmers facing a severe drop in their incomes. This analysis was conducted using a farm‐level model relying on expected utility theory and based on positive mathematical programming with risk. The model was applied to a sample of 1375 field crop farms in France derived from Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) data. Simulation results show that the uptake rate of the tool is relatively low, less than 37% in all scenarios. It is strongly dependent on CAP public support and on how much premium farmers have to pay. Highest uptake rates are observed in farms specialising in Other Field Crops, such as potatoes, pulses and sugar beet, and farms located in regions highly exposed to climatic risks. Previous experience with insurance favours the acceptance of the IST. Model results also show that the IST improves adopters' income and reduces income inequality. However, its impacts on crop diversity, measured by the Shannon index, are negative.
Reproductive cycles of two island pitvipers species (Serpentes, Viperidae) determined by ultrasonography and radiography
Authors: Garcia Viviane Campos , Almeida‐Santos Selma Maria
Published: April 2024

We used ultrasonography and radiography to assess the sexual organs and characterize the reproductive cycle of captive golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis) and Alcatrazes lancehead (B. alcatraz), two endangered island snake species in Brazil. We assessed 46‐ individuals of golden lancehead and 12 of Alcatrazes lancehead kept in captivity between 2014 and 2020. Follicular development was similar between species, but follicles in Alcatrazes lancehead were smaller than in the golden lanceheads. Female golden lanceheads produced 24 live young, seven stillborn and 73 undeveloped eggs. Parturition of live young occurred between midsummer (February) and early autumn and gestation averaged 8 months. Female Alcatrazes lanceheads produced four live young in midsummer, and one undeveloped egg in early autumn. Males and females of both species have seasonal and biennial reproductive cycles. Sperm storage in both sexes is essential to coordinate male and female cycles. The data obtained with golden lancehead and Alcatrazes lancehead in captivity, demonstrate a degree of conservatism, following data from other Bothrops.
A multicentre neonatal manikin study showed a large heterogeneity in tactile stimulation for apnoea of prematurity
Authors: Ouedraogo Paul , Villani Paolo Ernesto , Natalizi Alessia , Zagre Nicaise , Rodrigues Paula Alexandra Baltazar , Traore Osara Lamoussa , Gatto Daniela , Scalmani Emanuela , Putoto Giovanni , Cavallin Francesco , Trevisanuto Daniele
Published: April 2024

Aim

Apnoea of prematurity requires prompt intervention to prevent long‐term adverse outcomes, but specific recommendations about the stimulation approach are lacking. Our study investigated the modalities of tactile stimulation for apnoea of prematurity in different settings.

Methods

In this multi‐country observational prospective study, nurses and physicians of the neonatal intensive care units were asked to perform a tactile stimulation on a preterm neonatal manikin simulating an apnoea. Features of the stimulation (body location and hand movements) and source of learning (training course or clinical practice) were collected.

Results

Overall, 112 healthcare providers from five hospitals participated in the study. During the stimulation, the most frequent location were feet (72%) and back (61%), while the most frequent techniques were rubbing (64%) and massaging (43%). Stimulation modalities different among participants according to their hospitals and their source of learning of the stimulation procedures.

Conclusion

There was a large heterogeneity in stimulation approaches adopted by healthcare providers to counteract apnoea in a simulated preterm infant. This finding may be partially explained by the lack of specific guidelines and was influenced by the source of learning for tactile stimulation.
The past, present and future of health geography: An exchange with three long standing participants in the Geographies of Health and Wellbeing Research Group
Authors: Asker Chloe , Gorman Richard , Lowe Thomas Aaron , Curtis Sarah , Moon Graham , Jones Julia
Published: April 2024

This article traces the past, present and future of health geography through the career journeys of three notable academics, Sarah Curtis (SC), Julia Jones (JJ) and Graham Moon (GM). All three of these scholars have had entanglements with the Geographies of Health and Wellbeing Research Group (GHWRG) of the Royal Geographical Society (with the Institute of British Geographers) (RGS‐IBG) throughout their careers, enabling them to shape health geography into the contemporary sub‐discipline that we know today. GHWRG has, for the last 50 years, offered a lively and supportive network for all those interested in the geographies of health and health care, medical geography and all other areas of scholarship related to health and wellbeing that engage with geographical concerns.
The Importance of Linguistic Factors:HeLikes Subject Referents
Authors: Hert Regina , Järvikivi Juhani , Arnhold Anja
Published: April 2024

We report the results of one visual‐world eye‐tracking experiment and two referent selection tasks in which we investigated the effects of information structure in the form of prosody and word order manipulation on the processing of subject pronounserandderin German. Factors such as subjecthood, focus, and topicality, as well as order of mention have been linked to an increased probability of certain referents being selected as the pronoun's antecedent and described as increasing this referent's prominence, salience, or accessibility. The goal of this study was to find out whether pronoun processing is primarily guided by linguistic factors (e.g., grammatical role) or nonlinguistic factors (e.g., first‐mention), and whether pronoun interpretation can be described in terms of referents' “prominence” / “accessibility” / “salience.” The results showed an overall subject preference forer, whereasderwas affected by the object role and focus marking. While focus increases the attentional load and enhances memory representation for the focused referent making the focused referent more available, ultimately it did not affect the final interpretation ofer, suggesting that “prominence” or the related concepts do not explain referent selection preferences. Overall, the results suggest a primacy of linguistic factors in determining pronoun resolution.
Neighbourhood labour structure, lockdown policies, and the uneven spread of COVID‐19: within‐city evidence from England
Authors: Corradini Carlo , Matheson Jesse , Vanino Enrico
Published: April 2024

We estimate the importance of local labour structure in the spread of COVID‐19 during the first year of the pandemic. We build a unique dataset across 6791 English neighbourhoods that distinguishes between people living (residents) and people working (workers) in a neighbourhood, and differentiate between jobs that can be done from home (homeworkers), jobs that likely continued on‐site (keyworkers), and non‐essential on‐site jobs. We find that a 10 percentage points increase in keyworker jobs among residents is associated with 3.15 more cases per 1000 (4.8% relative to the mean), while a 10 percentage points increase in homeworker jobs among residents is associated with a decrease of 7.74 cases per 1000 (11.8% relative to the mean). Results for the composition of workers show the same sign, but smaller magnitudes. A dynamic analysis of the monthly incidence of reported cases shows that these relationships are particularly strong during lockdown periods. These results are heterogeneous across neighbourhoods, with larger positive effect of keyworkers, and lower protective effect of homeworkers, in higher deprivation areas. We explore the role of occupation skill intensity in driving these neighbourhood differences. These findings highlight important asymmetries in the distributional impact of the policy response to COVID‐19.
I, myself, move
Authors: O'Brien Lucy
Published: April 2024

This paper addresses the question “what connection is there between our answer to the question of what we are, and the question, what our actions are?” Suppose that actions are reflexive changes of agents. On that supposition, there would be a direct connection between the answers to those two questions. An action of mine will be a reflexive change of me, and what I am will fix the nature of those changes. I hold that supposition to be true and consider reasons in favor of believing it. However, the paper is not primarily aimed at defense of that thesis. It rather concerned with exploring what consequences accepting it has for the competing notions of what we are, given what we ordinarily think actions are, and bringing to light a tension between thinking of actions as reflexive changes of agents in this way, and a kind of causal understanding of actions that is prevalent. What emerges is that we should shift where we start our theorizing: we cannot assume that action theory primarily involves the task of characterizing the relation between an agent and changes caused, rather than a characterization of a particular kind of relation between the agent and herself.
Distant suffering and digital knowledge politics: New trajectories for critical geography
Authors: Keenaghan Natasha , Reilly Kathy
Published: April 2024

This paper engages theoretical principles from critical human geography, media and communication studies, and development literature to present a research trajectory that unpacks the influence of digital platforms in representing and mediating distant suffering. Critiques of aid and development communication have long focused on concerns around the representation of the Global South as an ‘Othered’ space; powerful and deeply problematic geographical imaginaries become embedded within contemporary dominant discourses of aid and development. As significant sources of aid and development imaginaries, how civil society has mediated distant suffering has been subject to much critique. However, the rapid transition towards engagement with digital platforms necessitates an extension of critical considerations about representation and mediation. For example: what impact do digital platforms, their knowledge politics and representational capabilities have on imaginaries of distant suffering? Digital platforms (such as websites and other social media platforms) are situated within and constituted by (and through) a ‘digital knowledge politics’. These platforms and their mediations still exist within broader social practices and processes, and therefore remain entrenched within the power relations between Global North and Global South. This poses significant questions regarding the role digital platforms (and their representational capabilities) play in producing and mediating representations of distant strangers and their places. Moreover, further gaps within existing research emerge regarding how digital platforms can inform how (and indeed if) the public respond to such discourses. Through identifying key interdisciplinary intersections between critical human geographies and media and communication studies, this paper considers research trajectories that extend critical examinations of the role that digital platforms play in producing and representing aid and development imaginaries.
Green or green‐washed? Examining sustainability reporting in higher education
Authors: Lakhno Maryna
Published: April 2024

Sustainability reporting has gained popularity across various fields, and the higher education sector is no exception. Higher education institutions across the globe are voluntarily investing time and resources into showcasing their activities and progress in sustainable development. Are these efforts just superficial instances of following a trend or do they exemplify a path towards an in‐depth transformation in the area of sustainability, as it is called for by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2015–2030? This article aims to answer this question by studying public sustainability reports of the top 50 UK universities, focusing on their self‐reflective elements and thematic comprehensiveness.
Recent advances in patient‐derived tumor organoids for reconstructing TME of head and neck cancer
Authors: Chen Lin , Chen Yinyu , Ge Liangyu , Zhang Qian , Meng Jian
Published: April 2024

Background

The differences between existing preclinical models and the tumor microenvironment in vivo are one of the significant challenges hindering cancer therapy development. Patient‐derived tumor organoids (PDTO) can highly retain tumor heterogeneity. Thus, it provides a more reliable platform for research in tumor biology, new drug screening, and precision medicine.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review to summarise the characteristics of the existing preclinical models, the advantages of patient‐derived tumor organoids in reconstructing the tumor microenvironment, and the latest research progress. Moreover, this study deciphers organoid culture technology in the clinical precision treatment of head and neck cancer to achieve better transformation. Studies were identified through a comprehensive search of Ovid MEDLINE (Wolters Kluwer), PubMed (National Library of Medicine), web of Science (Thomson Reuters) and, Scopus (Elsevier) databases, without publication date or language restrictions.

Results

In tumor development, the interaction between cellular and non‐cellular components in the tumor microenvironment (TME) has a crucial role. Co‐culture, Air‐liquid interface culture, microfluidics, and decellularized matrix have depicted great potential in reconstructing the tumor microenvironment and simulating tumor genesis, development, and metastasis.

Conclusion

An accurate determination of stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular matrix can be achieved by reconstructing the head and neck cancer tumor microenvironment using the PDTO model. Moreover, the interaction between head and neck cancer cells can also play an essential role in implementing the individualized precision treatment of head and neck cancer.
Incidence and characterization of aerophagia in dogs using videofluoroscopic swallow studies
Authors: Grobman Megan , Reinero Carol , Lee‐Fowler Tekla , Lever Teresa E.
Published: April 2024

Background

Aerophagia (ingestion of air), is a functional aerodigestive disorder in people. Criteria for diagnosis of aerophagia in dogs are >1/3 of bolus volume containing air or ingested air resulting in gastric distention (>1/3 of end gastric volume). Aerophagia is highlighted during eating and drinking. Videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) document aerophagia in dogs, but the incidence, clinical signs (CS), and associated disorders are unknown.

Objectives

Identify the incidence of aerophagia, compare CS between dogs with and without aerophagia, and identify associated and predisposing disorders using VFSS.

Animals

A total of 120 client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Sequential VFSS and associated medical records from dogs presenting to veterinary teaching hospitals at Auburn University and the University of Missouri were retrospectively reviewed. Statistical comparisons were made using Mann‐Whitney and chi‐squared tests, odds ratios (OR), and multiple logistic regression (P < .05).

Results

The incidence (95% confidence interval [CI]) of aerophagia was 40% (31.7‐48.9). Dogs with mixed CS (gastrointestinal [GI] and respiratory; P < .001, 58.3%) were more likely to have aerophagia than dogs with exclusively respiratory CS (25%). Aerophagia was significantly more common in brachycephalic dogs (P = .01; 45.8% vs 13.8%), dogs with nonbrachycephalic upper airway obstruction (P < .001; 33.3% vs 4.1%), pathologic penetration and aspiration (P‐A) scores (P = .04; 41.6% vs 23.6%), and gagging (P < .001; 25% vs 11.7%). Mixed CS (P = .01), brachycephaly (P < .001), and upper airway obstruction (P < .001) were independent predictors of aerophagia.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Aerophagia was common, particularly in dogs with mixed CS. Brachycephalic dogs and dogs with upper airway obstruction are predisposed. Aspiration risk was high, emphasizing overlapping upper aerodigestive pathways.
Pepper U‐Box E3 ubiquitin ligase 24, CaPUB24, negatively regulates drought stress response
Authors: Bae Yeongil , Cho Junyoung , Choi Jihye , Lim Chae Woo , Lee Sung Chul
Published: April 2024

Under stress conditions, plants modulate their internal states and initiate various defence mechanisms to survive. The ubiquitin‐proteasome system is one of the critical modules in these mechanisms, and Plant U‐Box proteins play an important role in this process as E3 ubiquitin ligases. Here, we isolated the Plant U‐box 24 gene CaPUB24 (Capsicum annuum Plant U‐Box 24) from pepper and characterized its functions in response to drought stress. We found that, compared to the other CaPUBs in the same group, the expression of CaPUB24 was significantly induced by drought stress. We also found that CaPUB24 was localized to the nucleus and cytoplasm and had E3 ubiquitin ligase activity. To investigate the biological role of CaPUB24 in response to drought stress further, we generated CaPUB24‐silenced pepper plants and CaPUB24‐overexpressing Arabidopsis transgenic plants. CaPUB24‐silenced pepper plants exhibited enhanced drought tolerance compared to the control plants due to reduced transpirational water loss and increased abscisic acid (ABA) sensitivity. In contrast, CaPUB24‐overexpressing Arabidopsis transgenic plants exhibited reduced drought tolerance and ABA‐insensitive phenotypes. Our findings suggest that CaPUB24 negatively modulates drought stress response in an ABA‐dependent manner.
Globalisation and informality: The role of quality gap and social contributions
Authors: Bellakhal Rihab , Ghazzai Hend , Lahmandi‐Ayed Rim
Published: April 2024

We investigate theoretically and empirically the effect of globalisation on informality. We use a model with two identical countries. Firms in each country choose to be formal or informal. Relative to an informal firm, a formal one produces a good of higher quality and pays social contributions on each worker. We determine the effect of globalisation on the size and the share of informality from the comparison of Autarky and Full Integration scenarios. We prove that for a given quality gap between formal and informal products, (i) globalisation increases the size of informality for low and high levels of social contributions but decreases it for intermediate ones; (ii) globalisation increases the share of informality for low social contributions and decreases it for high social contributions. The turning points depend increasingly on the quality gap. We then test these theoretical results by relying on the well‐informed data available for Latin‐American countries and using the economic sector as a proxy for the quality gap between a formal and an informal firm. Our empirical results are highly consistent with the theoretical model. In terms of policy implications, they show that globalisation may be used by the states together with modulated social contributions so as to reduce informality, but not for all economic sectors simultaneously.
Biobanks as a way to conserve biodiversity in the context of the continuing decline in the species diversity of wild flora and fauna
Authors: Dairov A.K. , Mukanov K.K. , Khapilina O.N. , Manabayeva Sh.A. , Kakimzhanova A.A. , Khassenova A.E. , Kubentayev S.A. , Zholdybayeva E.V. , Khassenov B.B. , Shevtsov A.B. , Tarlykov P.V. , Mukantayev K.N. , Ramankulov Ye.M.
Published: April 2024

To date, human actions have significantly changed 75% of the Earth's surface. This has resulted in an unprecedented increase in the rate of biodiversity loss in human history. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, over the past 500 years, as a result of direct or indirect influence of the anthropogenic factor, 774 animal species and 123 plant species have become extinct. To prevent further loss of biodiversity, in the context of the ongoing «crisis of biodiversity», all over the world, including Kazakhstan, there is a need for reliable conservation of the available genetic resources of plants and animals, primarily rare and endangered species. In this regard, specialized biobanks of organized collections of living biomaterials are successfully used worldwide for the conservation and restoration of populations of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The article presents information about some of the largest biobanks and their importance in solving this global problem. The experience of scientific centers of Kazakhstan in the field of biobanking of biomaterials of wild flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species, is given, and the results of the National Center for Biotechnology in this area are summarized.
Frontal Crash Testing of a Class V Lift Truck
Authors: Gall Jessica , Martinez Jonathan , Watson Richard , Gwin Lisa P.
Published: April 2024

Counterbalanced, center control, high-lift trucks with a sit-down, non-elevating operator position are required to have a restraint system. The restraint system is intended to restrain the operator in the normal operating position and assist in reducing the risk of entrapment of the operator between the truck and the ground in the event of a tip-over. This is typically accomplished through the use of a two-point lap belt. This type of restraint also provides a degree of protection in the event of a collision between the lift truck and another object. Lift trucks operate in relatively low-speed environments, and many are limited to a maximum speed of 8 mph through a limiting device or by job site regulations. Though the speeds are low, lift trucks can operate in close proximity to other lift trucks and stationary rigid structures, creating the potential for collisions. The standards governing lift truck restraints do not mandate impact testing or injury criteria. This paper describes instrumented frontal impact and sled testing with a peak acceleration of 51 g performed on a Class V lift truck using an anthropomorphic test device (ATD) to test the effectiveness of lift truck restraints in this scenario. The results of this testing showed ATD injury metrics within automotive safety standards.
Effects of Eccentric Errors on Sliding Velocity and Accumulative Wear Depth of Planetary Roller Screw Mechanism
Authors: Cheng Zhenwen , Zu Li , Xing Mingcai , Zhou Changguang , Xu Yang , Hao Zishuo
Published: April 2024

The eccentric errors of planetary roller screw mechanism (PRSM) affect the contact kinematic characteristics and exacerbate the cumulative wear of thread pairs, which will reduce its transmission accuracy and reliability. Hence, it is significant to investigate the cumulative wear of PRSM with the eccentric errors. In this work, based on the conjugate surface contact condition and Archard wear theory, the sliding speed and cumulative wear depth of PRSM with eccentricity errors are modeled, respectively. The effects of eccentric errors on the sliding velocities and cumulative wear depth of PRSM are investigated. It has been determined that the eccentric errors of the screw and nut do not cause the sliding motion in the nut–roller contact region (NRCR). However, there are noticeable variations in sliding velocity and cumulative wear depth in the screw–roller contact region (SRCR). The eccentric errors of the screw and nut have a combined effect on the sliding velocity and wear between the screw and roller. This investigation and finding can provide a valuable reference for the processing and assembly of PRSM.
Navigating genomic testing: Evaluation of an e-learning module with general practitioners
Authors: Terrill Bronwyn Nicole , Pearce Angela , Chau Amanda , Young Mary-Anne
Published: April 2024

Background: Primary care, or general, practitioners (GPs) are increasingly expected to communicate with and support their patients through genetic or genomic testing. However, GPs worldwide report a lack of knowledge about genetics and what constitutes a genetic or genomic test. Few Australian educational resources for medical practitioners address core capabilities in genetics or genomics.
Methods: We developed and evaluated a 90-minute online education module, Navigating Genomic Testing in General Practice, hosted online for 12 months. The module aimed to increase GPs’ awareness and knowledge of genomics, increase confidence in their capability to support genomic testing and foster intention to utilise that knowledge. GPs residing and practising in Australia who completed the module also completed a mandatory post-module survey. They were then invited to complete a behavioural intention survey and participate in an interview.
Results: Between December 2018 and 2019, 216 Australian GPs completed the module and mandatory survey. Fourteen GPs went on to complete the optional survey. Most Australian GPs who completed the module reported gaining knowledge that was relevant to their practice (n = 215, 99.5%) and entirely met their learning needs (n = 168, 77.8%). Respondents of the optional survey (n = 14) indicated that confidence in their capability significantly increased post module, together with intention to support patients undergoing genomic testing.
Conclusion: GPs in this study reported increased confidence, ability and intent, which are factors that can lead to changes in behaviour. Our findings support use of this type of online course as an educational tool to help GPs navigate genomics as it increasingly impacts their practice.
Teaching manual handling through risk assessment empowers the nursing team to provide safe mobility-related care: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Kugler Helen , Brusco Natasha , Slade Susan , Boyd Leanne , Taylor Nicholas
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Mobilisation of hospital patients is important for their functioning, and nurses play an important role in providing assistance. Manual handling training programs aim to help nurses to move patients safely, but most do not include dynamic risk assessment. We aimed to explore the experiences of members of the nursing team working in inpatient wards in a private hospital who participated in the manual handling training program Risk Assessment for moving Individuals SafEly (RAISE).
Methods: Members of the nursing team who attended a 4-hour dynamic risk assessment training program led by physiotherapists participated in one of two focus groups guided by semi-structured questions 4 months post training. Focus groups were facilitated by an experienced qualitative researcher (physiotherapist).
Results: Three themes emerged: (1) empowerment, (2) role and (3) implementation. The training session improved the nurses’ confidence and empowerment to employ a risk assessment model for mobility-related care, which was central to their role. Organisational factors, including cluttered environments, equipment and staffing challenges, were identified as the key barriers to implementation.
Conclusion: Risk assessment manual handling training was perceived to improve confidence and empower the nursing team to provide safe mobility-related care. It is recommended that training sessions be relatively short; provide refresher training and consistent access to training within departments across the target health service; and take into consideration organisational factors that may affect implementation.
Interprofessional education for the next 50 years
Authors: Brewer Margo , Evans Sherryn , Gum Lyn , Kent Fiona , Anakin Megan
Published: April 2024

Over the past two decades, there have been important changes to interprofessional education in Australia and New Zealand. Interprofessional education has slowly shifted from peripheral, small-scale education activities attended by volunteer students to become an expectation of many health professional courses to meet accreditation requirements and community expectations of a collaborative healthcare system. In Australia, interprofessional education curricula have been facilitated by increased accreditation expectations and a series of national large-scale funded projects. However, despite declarations of intent and direction, strategic implementation of nationwide recommendations has not been achieved. In New Zealand, large-scale funding has not been available to facilitate the implementation of interprofessional education in the professional courses. Instead, interprofessional education initiatives have been driven by a small group of champions. Furthermore, efforts to achieve the World Health Organization’s (2010) vision of interprofessional education across the education spectrum—to ensure the future and current health workforce have the competencies for interprofessional collaboration—have been hampered in our region by the focus on interprofessional education within tertiary education. This paper outlines the transnational status of interprofessional education and the role of the Australian and New Zealand Association for Health Professional Educators (ANZAHPE) and the Australasian Interprofessional Practice and Education Network (AIPPEN) in progress to date. We conclude with several suggestions for future interprofessional education across our two countries.
Antibodies to
Borrelia burgdorferi
and
Bartonella
species in serum and synovial fluid from people with rheumatic diseases
Authors: Kim Lisa , Lashnits Erin , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Elam Amanda , Grade Neenah , Miller Jennifer , Shikhman Alexander R.
Published: April 2024

Vector-borne infections may underlie some rheumatic diseases, particularly in people with joint effusions. This study aimed to compare serum and synovial fluid antibodies to
B. burgdorferi
and
Bartonella
spp. in patients with rheumatic diseases. This observational, cross-sectional study examined paired synovial fluid and serum specimens collected from 110 patients with joint effusion between October 2017 and January 2022. Testing for antibodies to
B. burgdorferi
(using CDC criteria) and
Bartonella
spp.
via
two indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assays was performed as part of routine patient care at the Institute for Specialized Medicine (San Diego, CA, USA). There were 30 participants (27%) with positive two-tier
B. burgdorferi
serology and 26 participants (24%) with IFA seroreactivity (≥1:256) to
B. henselae
and/or
B. quintana
. Both
B. burgdorferi
IgM and IgG were detected more frequently in synovial fluid than serum: 27% of patients were either IgM or IgG positive in synovial fluid, compared to 15.5% in serum (
P
= 0.048). Conversely,
B. henselae
and
B. quintana
antibodies were detected more frequently in serum than synovial fluid; overall only 2% of patients had positive IFA titers in synovial fluid, compared to 24% who had positive IFA titers in serum (
P
< 0.001). There were no significant associations between
B. burgdorferi
or
Bartonella
spp. seroreactivity with any of the clinical rheumatological diagnoses. This study provides preliminary support for the importance of synovial fluid antibody testing for documenting exposure to
B. burgdorferi
but not for documenting exposure to
Bartonella
spp.

IMPORTANCE

This study focuses on diagnostic testing for two common vector-borne diseases in an affected patient population. In it, we provide data showing that antibodies to
B. burgdorferi
, but not
Bartonella
spp., are more commonly found in synovial fluid than serum of patients with joint effusion. Since Lyme arthritis is a common—and sometimes difficult to diagnose—rheumatic disease, improving diagnostic capabilities is of utmost importance. While our findings are certainly not definitive for changes to practice, they do suggest that synovial fluid could be a useful sample for the clinical diagnosis of Lyme disease, and future prospective studies evaluating this claim are warranted.