bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching students to control mechanical systems through an engaging laboratory activity
Authors: Bianchi Giovanni , Cazzulani Gabriele
Published: December 2024

This paper describes a didactic activity in which students learn how to control a mechanical system composed of two pulleys and two springs powered by a DC motor. The control types studied in the course are P, PD, PI, and PID; these controls were applied for both velocity and position control, with and without ground springs, and students were instructed on system modeling and control implementation using Arduino in conjunction with Matlab and Simulink. The experimental results were finally compared with theoretical expectations. The students worked in groups of four to five people, and all of them successfully implemented the required control algorithms and submitted comprehensive final reports. Feedback from students was gathered anonymously through a questionnaire, revealing that students appreciated the activity as it provided clarity on theoretical concepts that might have been challenging if taught solely in a traditional classroom setting. The positive response from students has led to the decision to repeat this activity in subsequent years.
Moving around the Synagogue: Responses to COVID Restrictions on Movement for Ritual Purposes in a Liberal Jewish Community
Authors: Badder Anastasia
Published: December 2024

Taking the experiences of families in a Liberal Jewish congregational school under COVID travel restrictions as a case study, this article highlights the ways in which the religious and the secular as categories, ways of being, and experiences are articulated through and as specific mobilities. It pushes back against the assumption that ‘everyday’ travels are primarily the time-spaces of secular modernity and questions the extent to which ideas about existential mobility tend to be framed by discourses of secular modernity. Examining disruptions to mobilities that entailed the redefinition of old movements as newly secular or religious, the article ethnographically demonstrates that religious and secular mobility regimes frequently overlap, coexist, and co-define each other, even within single events. Ultimately, it calls for greater attention to movement itself in the study of religious lives, rather than taking movement as the backdrop against or through which another set of actions or identities occur.
Lifeline Ferries: Existential dimensions of ‘essential’ mobility
Authors: Bosbach Christina
Published: December 2024

Grounded in an analysis of islanders’ ferry mobility between the Isle of Coll and mainland Scotland during the Covid-19 pandemic, this article argues for increased anthropological engagement with the existential dimension of mechanised mobilities. The pandemic restrictions on mobility rested upon the distinction between socio-economically framed ‘essential’ and existentially framed ‘non-essential travel’. However, islanders’ agentive navigation of restrictions gave rise to a locally specific regime of im/mobility that emphasised the existential dimension of those mobilities that policymakers understood as a ‘lifeline’ in a socio-economic sense. To show this, the article applies the concept of existential mobility, developed by Hage, to mechanised mobilities, which remain understudied in anthropology. It argues that thus attending to their existential dimension is crucial to overcome a remaining sedentarist bias in anthropological thinking on mobility, and to avoid unintentionally reproducing governing categories like ‘essential’ and ‘non-essential’ in our analyses.
Navigating Covid-induced (im)mobilities: Human agency during travel restrictions and uncertainties
Authors: Terry Cristian
Published: December 2024

This article examines the agency of privileged travelers amid the Covid-19 pandemic, extending beyond the predominant focus on mobility justice for migrants and refugees in (im)mobilities research. Offering new insights into pandemic (im)mobilities, it sheds light on the motivations and strategies adopted by travelers to persist in their journeys, challenging restrictions on “non-essential” mobility imposed by the essential/existential governmental dichotomy. The study contributes to anthropological discussions on the interplay of structure and agency, revealing how individuals navigate the shifting structures of Covid-induced (im)mobilities, transforming “existential mobility” into profound acts. The article highlights the significance of desire and the value of mobility as crucial elements in comprehending human agency to resist immobilization. Through different ethnographic examples, it also demonstrates human agency’s inherent heterogeneity, contextuality, and fluidity. This research contributes to the existing literature on Covid-19, particularly within the field of mobility and agency in anthropology.
An evolving machine-learning-based algorithm to early predict response to anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies in patients with migraine
Authors: Romozzi Marina , Lokhandwala Ammar , Vollono Catello , Vigani Giulia , Burgalassi Andrea , García-Azorín David , Calabresi Paolo , Chiarugi Alberto , Geppetti Pierangelo , Iannone Luigi Francesco
Published: December 2024

Background

The present study aimed to determine whether machine-learning (ML)-based models can predict 3-, 6, and 12-month responses to the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) or its receptor (anti-CGRPmAbs) in patients with migraine using early predictors (up to one month) and to create an evolving prediction tool.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, data from patients with migraine who had received anti-CGRP mAbs for 12 months were collected. Demographic and monthly clinical variables were collected, including monthly headache days (MHDs), days with acute medication use, number of analgesics and Headache Impact Test-6. Response rates were categorized as <25%, 26–50%, 51–75% and >75% reduction in MHDs. ML models were trained using random forest algorithm and optimized to maximize the F1 score. ML model performance was also evaluated using standard evaluation metrics, including accuracy, precision and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC). Sequential backward feature selection was employed to identify the most relevant predictors for each model. Each model was given 11 baseline data inputs and month-based predictors for months 1, 3 and 6. Each model was then validated against an external test cohort of patients who had received anti-CGRP mAbs for 12 months.

Results

Three hundred thirty-six patients treated with anti-CGRP mAbs were included. The external cohort included 93 patients treated with anti-CGRP mAbs. We developed six models to predict 3- 6- and 12-month responses using early predictors. ML-based models yielded predictions with an accuracy score in the range 0.40–0.73 and an AUC-ROC score in the range 0.56–0.76 during internal testing and yielding predictions with an accuracy in the range 0.39–0.64 and an AUC-ROC score in the range 0.52–0.78 when tested against an external test cohort. Shapley Additive explanations summary plots were generated to interpret the contribution of each feature for each model. Based on these findings, a response prediction tool was developed. Each model was run through a backward feature selection to find the most relevant features for the models. The MHDs reduction of the previous data point tends to be the most relevant, while the migraine with aura indicator tends to be the least effective predictor.

Conclusions

The response prediction tool utilizing evolving ML-based models holds promise in the early prediction of treatment outcomes for patients with migraine undergoing anti-CGRP mAbs treatment.
Role of Momentary Alcohol Cognitions in Event-Level Relations Between PTSD Symptoms and Alcohol Outcomes: Le rôle des cognitions momentanées liées à l’alcool au niveau de l’événement entre les symptômes du TSPT et la consommation d’alcool
Authors: Zaso Michelle J. , Colder Craig R. , Fetkenhour Lucia M. , Read Jennifer P.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) commonly co-occur. Momentary alcohol cognitions may represent in-the-moment, modifiable risk factors to target in interventions for comorbid PTSD and AUD. However, the role of such cognitions in risk for problematic drinking as it emerges in response to individuals’ fluctuating PTSD symptoms across their daily lives remains unknown. The present study aimed to test whether state-level PTSD-alcohol expectancies and/or drinking motives modulate in-the-moment associations between PTSD symptoms and alcohol outcomes.

Method

Frequent drinking adults with current PTSD ( n = 54) reported on their posttraumatic symptoms and alcohol cognitions, craving, and consumption during four momentary surveys each day for 14 days (3,024 observations) in an ecological momentary assessment design. Multilevel moderation analyses tested whether in-the-moment PTSD-alcohol expectancies and/or drinking motives moderated relations of PTSD symptoms with alcohol craving and consumption.

Results

Findings demonstrated a significant interaction between PTSD symptoms and coping drinking motives on in-the-moment alcohol craving. Specifically, greater experience of PTSD symptoms related more strongly to craving for alcohol during events in which drinkers endorsed higher levels of coping drinking motives. There were no additional interaction effects for drinking motives or PTSD-alcohol expectancies on either alcohol craving or consumption.

Conclusions

Coping drinking motives appear to convey strong in-the-moment risk for PTSD-related alcohol craving yet not subsequent alcohol consumption. Future research should delineate concurrent alcohol risk and possible protective processes active in the presence of PTSD symptoms to help identify targets for interventions tailored to the unique risk processes maintaining comorbid PTSD and AUD.
Assessing the Need for Repeat EEG in Pediatric Patients with Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy After Anti-Seizure Medication Withdrawal Following Seizure Freedom
Authors: Paudel Sita , Heebner Madison , Mainali Gayatra , Tencer Jaclyn S. , Kanwar Rhea , Martel Katherine , Kumar Ashutosh , Naik Sunil C. , Pradhan Sandeep , Kandel Prakash , Leslie Douglas
Published: December 2024

Background

Most patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy have good seizure control on antiseizure medications. Although idiopathic generalized epilepsy subtypes such as juvenile absence epilepsy and juvenile myoclonic epilepsy have a high risk of relapse, childhood absence epilepsy may have seizure remission. After 2 years of seizure freedom in childhood absence epilepsy, typically antiseizure medications are discontinued, but follow-up protocols are unclear. This study aims to evaluate how often patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy undergo electroencephalography (EEG) after antiseizure medication withdrawal, how often antiseizure medications are restarted based on EEG findings, and if this varies between physicians and advanced practice providers at our institution.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review. Data were collected using electronic medical records of pediatric patients (<18 years) with idiopathic generalized epilepsy who were successfully weaned off antiseizure medications at Penn State Children's Hospital from 2010 to 2020.

Results

We reviewed 1409 charts and found 52 patients meeting criteria. Seventeen of 52 patients (32%) had a repeat EEG within 6 months of antiseizure medication withdrawal following seizure freedom. Of those 17 patients, 3 (17.6%) had generalized epileptiform discharges on EEG. Of these 3 patients, 2 (66%) were restarted on antiseizure medications based on the abnormal EEG. None had seizure relapse.

Conclusion

Obtaining a repeat EEG in patients after antiseizure medication withdrawal following seizure freedom is common. Patients with an abnormal EEG are often restarted on antiseizure medications, irrespective of clinical seizure relapse. Considering the high health care costs of EEGs and antiseizure medication side effects, we propose that if patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy do well clinically following antiseizure medication withdrawal, EEGs may not be necessary.
Dorothy, Anne, and Margaret: Person-Centered Histories of Foster Children in the Mid-twentieth Century, New York City
Authors: delphi elia
Published: December 2024

Reading against the grain of an adult-centric primary source, I reconstruct the experiences of Dorothy, Anne, and Margaret, three foster children whose stories take place during the mid-twentieth century in New York City. What histories are available of this period center systems, structures, and institutions rather than the lives of individual children. Shifting the focus onto the children themselves, my research aims to answer how foster children asserted their agency and subjecthood in situations where they were made to feel powerless. Central to this inquiry is how foster children acted as agents of their own lives. To connect these narratives to their broader sociohistorical context, I write of certain themes of their experiences and apply interdisciplinary social theory. In such analyses, I expand on issues of identity, labeling, and intersectionality in order to more fully understand the experiences of these children. Each story shines a light on what it was like to be a foster child in the mid-century, uncovering details about the child's personality, struggle, and victories.
How was your child’s temperament today and last week? Considering within-person variability in the measurement of infant temperament
Authors: Reinelt Tilman , Wagner Lisa , Suppiger Debora , Daum Moritz M , Natalucci Giancarlo
Published: December 2024

Infant temperament is usually considered biologically driven and a precursor of personality. Despite being conceived as trait measures, parent reports for assessing infant temperament use short timescales, for example, the past seven days, implying variability in temperament traits’ expressions. In two daily diary studies, we used the whole trait theory perspective to investigate whether infant temperament is observable daily and to what degree it varies within person across days. In Study 1, N = 137 mothers of infants aged 6–18 months reported on their infant’s daily (state) temperament (median number of days: 8 and total observations: 984). The results suggest a substantial within-person variation in daily infant temperament (ICCs: .41–.54). Study 2 ( N = 199 mothers, median number of days: 7, and total observations: 1375) replicated these results on the variability in infant state temperament (ICCs: .41–.51). In addition, infant state temperament was related to infant trait temperament. However, certain temperament items—primarily those assessing surgency—were frequently rated as not applicable and did not seem suitable for daily assessments. Across both studies, results indicate substantial within-person variability in daily infant temperament and a strong trait component.
Biomaterials meet organ-on-chips – a perspective on tumor modeling
Authors: Monteiro Cátia F. , Deus Inês A. , Custódio Catarina A. , Mano João F.
Published: December 2024

Microfluidic organ-on-chip systems are promising platforms for the development of biomimetic models that aim to reconstruct the 3D architecture and intrinsic functionality of native tissues. An in-depth comprehension of the pivotal role of extracellular matrix in intricate cellular responses has paved the way for the emergence of biologically-relevant and instructive biomaterials that can capture the essence of the cell's microenvironment. The notable evolution in the realm of biomaterials toward the development of more realistic 3D in vitro tissue models capable of recreating the synergistic cell-extracellular matrix interplay is covered. An overview of the most recent advances in integrating biomimetic materials into organ-on-chip systems is provided, including the exploitation of bulk hydrogels as soft material devices to fulfill the requirements for direct cell-matrix interaction. The successful application of this cutting-edge technology on tumor modeling is then discussed, highlighting the great contribution of perfusable microvessels to elucidate the mechanistic events of tumor metastatic cascade. This convergence of biomaterials science with organ-on-a-chip technology is envisioned to foster the understanding of native cellular behavior, shedding light on the dynamism of cell-extracellular matrix interactions.
The free vibration analysis of ring-stiffened FG conical sandwich shells with auxetic and non-auxetic honeycomb cores
Authors: Arshadi Khashayar , Abasi Maryam , Afshari Hassan
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the natural frequencies of a ring-stiffened conical sandwich shell with a functionally graded (FG) honeycomb core are calculated. The core can be either a non-auxetic honeycomb (NAH) or an auxetic honeycomb (AH). The honeycomb core and face layers are fabricated from metal-ceramic functionally graded material (FGM) in which the volume fraction of the ceramic increases from zero at the inner surface of the shell to one at its outer surface based on either power-law function (P-FGM), sigmoid function (S-FGM), or exponential function (E-FGM). The sandwich shell is modeled based on Murakami’s zig-zag theory and the intermediate ring support is modeled as a rigid structure. Hamilton’s principle is employed to derive the governing equations, compatibility conditions, and boundary conditions. A semi-analytical solution is presented which includes an exact solution in the circumferential direction followed by an approximate numerical solution via the differential quadrature method (DQM) in the meridional direction. It is concluded that for each vibrational mode, optimal values can be found for the inclined angle, core-to-shell thickness ratio, and location of the ring support which bring about the highest natural frequency. The presented work is the first theoretical work associated with the free vibration analysis of a ring-stiffened FG conical sandwich shell with a honeycomb core which provides a reduction in the mass and improvement in the thermo-mechanical characteristics, simultaneously. Such properties make such a structure widely used in the aerospace industry. Considering the importance of the dynamic characteristics of aerospace structures, the results of this research can be used by these industries in the analysis and optimal design of the main body of airplanes and missiles.
Does functional urban specialization affect energy efficiency? Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Xu , Xu Huilin , Anwar Sajid
Published: December 2024

In light of China's rapid urbanization and industrialization, adopting a spatial cooperation system that leverages cities’ comparative advantages is vital for efficient resource allocation. This paper investigates the impact of functional urban specialization on energy efficiency, considering the moderating role of market integration, using provincial panel data from 2000 to 2019. The findings underscore the importance of energy efficiency in China's development strategy, revealing a U-shaped relationship between functional urban specialization and energy efficiency. This indicates that only a few provinces have currently surpassed the critical threshold. The rationalization of industrial structures and technological innovation are identified as key mechanisms through which functional urban specialization enhances energy efficiency. Furthermore, enhanced market integration significantly amplifies this positive effect. Based on these insights, it is recommended that provinces promote specialized urban development and strengthen regional economic integration to optimize energy usage and facilitate sustainable growth.
Gender Inequality in Health Insurance in India: Evidence from the NFHS-5 Survey of 2019–21
Authors: Basumatary Rupon , Rahman Ajijur , Kalita Simi , Bharadwaj Himakshi
Published: December 2024

Existing studies largely fail to provide a comprehensive account of gender inequality in health insurance in India. In this study, using the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5 data of 2019–21, we analyse the extent and pattern of gender inequality in health insurance coverage in the country. Overall, more than two-thirds of the 15–49 age group population remains uninsured against health risks. Multivariate analysis shows lower likelihood of health insurance coverage for females as compared with males. Gender inequality however varies across socio-economic groups, regions and insurance schemes. Spatially, while inequality has worsened in many States/UTs since the NFHS-4 of 2015–16, it has declined or even reversed in favour of women in a few others. Further studies on the contextual barriers to women’s participation in health insurance schemes can provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying reasons for gender inequality in protection against health risks in India. Incorporation of questions on the reasons for women’s non-participation in insurance schemes in future large-scale surveys will be useful in this regard.
A Morphological and Immunohistochemical Study of Central Nervous System Lymphoma in Southern India from a Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Logavidhya M  , Narla Swetha Lakshmi
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Lymphomas of the central nervous system (CNS) are rare, accounting for 3.1% of all primary brain tumours. They may be either secondary to systemic lymphoma or primary without the evidence of systemic involvement. In the past two decades, an increased incidence has been reported in patients aged >60 years. The study was undertaken to analyse the morphological and immunohistochemical profile of CNS lymphoma.

Methods:

The study included all lymphoma cases involving the CNS between 2014 and 2023. Two histopathologists examined the slides independently. For immunophenotyping, indirect immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used on paraffin-embedded tissue.

Results:

A total of 50 cases were diagnosed during this period with confirmed immunophenotyping. The age range was 11-76 years with male: female distribution of 3:2. HIV serology was available only for 30 cases and was negative in all except for one. The frontal lobe was the most common site of involvement. IHC was done in all 50 cases, of which 47 cases were large B-cell lymphoma, one peripheral T cell lymphoma, one Burkitt lymphoma, and one post-transplant primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL). Among large B-cell lymphomas, two cases showed dual expression and cyclin D1 aberrant expression was detected in one case.

Conclusion:

This morphological and immunohistochemical study solidifies the fact that diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) was the most common immunophenotype observed among PCNSL.
Reconstructing a Meaningful Self: The Identity Work of People Living With Chronic Disease
Authors: Clur Loraine Sonia , Barnard Antoni
Published: December 2024

With the escalating number of people diagnosed with chronic disease globally, research aimed at supporting their adjustment and coping is invaluable. Reconstructing a sense of self is core to the psychosocial adjustment of people with chronic disease (PwCD), and meaning making is central to their coping with the diagnosis. Despite the growing number of PwCD living productive lives, their identity work is underexplored. This article reports on an in-depth multiple case study that explored the identity work of PwCD from a meaning-making perspective. Data were gathered from three cases using semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and diaries. Data analysis entailed interpretative phenomenological analysis and flexible pattern matching. Three themes describe participants’ identity work process: First, they narrate a broken identity, having experienced identity disruption, discontinuity, and loss; second, they envision an ideal identity through existential reflection; and third, they reconstruct a meaningful identity. Reconciling the broken self with an ideal self leads to the construction of a meaningful self. The meaningful self is conceptualized in participants’ application of Frankl’s meaning-making principles, as they constructed a purposeful self (creative), a connected self (experiential), and a determined self (attitudinal). The article discusses the implications for helping professionals and organizations in supporting PwCD as they work toward rebuilding a meaningful self, facilitating their identity work in the search of a meaningful self.
On Becoming a Boffinhack: The Research-Based Reporting (ReBaR) Framework for Concurrent Scientific and Journalistic Investigation
Authors: LaPlante Matthew D.
Published: December 2024

Scientific and journalistic investigations are complementary pursuits, involving a search for truth through the collection and analysis of evidence, good-faith endeavors of objectivity, and a commitment to transparency and reproducibility. Yet scientists do not often embrace journalistic methods of storytelling, and journalists rarely engage in scientific research. Described here through three recent experiences, the Research-based Reporting (ReBaR) framework for scientific storytelling is introduced as a model for concurrent journalistic and scientific investigation with publishing outcomes in peer-reviewed and lay press, and in which there are symbiotic benefits to both parts of the process.
Exploring human-swarm interaction dynamics in cyber-physical systems: A physiological approach
Authors: Distefano Joseph P. , Chowdhury Souma , Esfahani Ehsan
Published: December 2024

Complex Cyber-Physical-Human System (CPHS) integrate the human operator as an essential element to assist with different aspects of information monitoring and decision making across the system to achieve the desired goal. A crucial aspect of enhancing CPHS efficiency lies in understanding the interaction dynamics of human cognitive factors and Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS). This entails designing feedback mechanisms, reasoning processes, and compliance protocols with consideration of their psychological impacts on human operators, fostering shared awareness between humans and AI agents and calibrating feedback levels to ensure operators are informed without being overwhelmed. This study focuses on a specific CPHS scenarios involving a human operator interacting with a swarm of robots for search, rescue, and monitoring tasks. It explores the impact of swarm non-compliance rate and feedback levels from the robotic swarm on the human operators’ cognitive processes, and the extent to which individual differences in information processing influence this interaction dynamics. A human subject study with 20 participants experienced in strategic gaming involved nine scenarios with randomized robot compliance and AI feedback levels was conducted. Cognitive factors, categorized into brain-based features (mental engagement, workload, distraction) and eye-based features (pupil size, fixation, saccade, blink rate), were analyzed. Statistical analyses revealed that brain-based features, particularly mental workload, were predictive of the effect of compliance level, while feedback level and expertise affected both eye features and brain cognitive factors.
Are PDFGRA Dinucleotide Alterations Definitional for Myxoid Glioneuronal Tumor? Report of PDFRA p. K385L Mutation in a Neonatal High-Grade Glioma
Authors: Gilani Ahmed , Willard Nicholas , Mulcahy Levy Jean M. , Skaugen John , Toland Angus
Published: December 2024

Tumors are increasingly defined by molecular alterations but approach to cases with discordant histologic and molecular features is unclear. Myxoid glioneuronal tumor (MGNT), histologically similar to dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNET), is characterized by dinucleotide mutations in PDGFRA gene (K385L or K385I). Here, we report PDGFRA K385L mutation in a neonatal high-grade glioma. A male neonate presented at birth with hydrocephalus. Subsequent imaging showed a large, lobulated cerebral mass. He died at day 37 of life from intracranial hemorrhage. A brain-only autopsy was performed, which showed a diffusely infiltrative hemorrhagic glial tumor with variable histology. Regions with distinct mucin pools and monomorphic oligodendroglioma-like cells were present. Elsewhere, there was little mucin and markedly atypical nuclei. Increased mitotic rate and foci of microvascular proliferation were widely present. Targeted panel sequencing found PDGFRA K385L mutation. DNA methylation studies showed a match with diffuse pediatric-type high-grade glioma, H3-wildtype, and IDH-wildtype, RTK1 subtype with a high calibrated score. In summary, we report the occurrence of PDGFRA hotspot mutation in a neonatal high-grade glioma without distinct features of MGNT, demonstrating that this genetic alteration is not specific to MGNT. We recommend caution in classifying a tumor as MGNT solely by the presence of PDGFRA alteration.
Feline dystocia and kitten mortality up to 12 weeks in pedigree cats
Authors: Černá Petra , Pugalendhi Sneha Joseph , Shaw Darren J , Gunn-Moore Danièlle A
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to establish the incidence of dystocia in pedigree cat breeds and investigate mortality rates in kittens up to the age of 12 weeks.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted that utilised convenience sampling. Registered cat breeders from 29 countries whose cats had given birth within a single year (2019) were asked to complete an online questionnaire. This study is the third in a series over 30 years that have assessed changes in birth-related statistics in cat breeds.

Results

Data were collected from 448 breeders on 853 litters, with 3560 live-born kittens from 45 pedigree breeds (as per the queens’ breed). The incidence of dystocia that required veterinary intervention was 14.9% and varied by breed (range 0–22.2%). Caesarean section was required for 10.7% of litters, most commonly in Cornish Rex cats. Despite apparent breed variation, there was no statistically significant difference among breeds. Queens aged over 5 years and litters of more than six kittens were associated with a reduced risk of dystocia, whereas a longer gestation period increased the risk. Bengal cats had the highest cumulative kitten mortality up to the age of 12 weeks (23.4%). Significant breed differences ( P <0.001) were noted, with Ragdoll and Norwegian Forest Cats having lower litter mortality compared with Bengal and British Shorthair/Longhair cats.

Conclusions and relevance

The incidence of dystocia in pedigree cats was higher than the historical values for non-pedigree and pedigree cats. The age of the queen, gestation length and litter size affected the incidence of dystocia. Kitten mortality was affected by the requirement for caesarean section, presence of birth defects and breed.
The Function of Green Finance Initiative in Maintaining Ocean Health: Novel Findings From an International Database
Authors: Ha Le Thanh
Published: December 2024

This article empirically analyzes the influence of green finance (GF) on ocean health. Employing 10 indicators and a composite Ocean Health Index (OHI) to measure the efficiency and sustainability of ocean economies, the study spans 9 years across 35 countries. Multiple econometric methodologies, including Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS), Panel-Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE), and the 2-step Generalized Method of Moments (GMM), demonstrate a substantial negative association between GF and ocean health. An extensive analysis of GF’s relationship to the Ocean Health Index (OHI) components indicates that GF negatively impacts each of the 6 aspects of OHI. In the long run, however, when a Pooled Mean Group Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PMG-ARDL) model is used to assess the short- and long-term impacts, the results show a substantial positive association between GF and the ocean health.

JEL code: J4; C12
Effect of physical activity on depression, anxiety, and stress in women surviving breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Nero Dario da Silva Monte , de Lira Carlos Rodrigo Nascimento , da Silva Lima Paz Claudio Luiz , de Farias Costa Priscila Ribas , de Magalhães Cunha Carla , Amador Bueno Allain , de Jesus Rosângela Passos , de Oliveira Lucivalda Pereira Magalhães
Published: December 2024

Breast cancer treatment can lead to psychological distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress. We systematically investigated the effect of physical exercise on these factors in women surviving breast cancer (WSBC). Eight databases were searched to identify eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Data extraction and bias risk analysis were conducted using standardized tools, with meta-analysis performed using RevMan® software. Out of 3529 documents initially identified, 15 RCTs were included, comprising 2756 WSBC (1284 in intervention groups and 1472 in control groups), with 2082 participants in depression analyses, 513 in anxiety analyses, and 161 in stress analyses. Meta-analyses showed that physical exercise promoted significant reduction in depression and anxiety. Subgroup analyses showed greater reduction in anxiety when aerobic and resistance exercise were combined. Only two studies investigated stress, with less robust data suggesting improvement when combining aerobic and resistance interventions. Future RCTs with standardized intervention protocols are needed to confirm these findings.
The role of basic psychological needs satisfaction and subjective well-being in the relationship between identification with all humanity and physical health problems: A serial mediation model
Authors: Çağış Zafer Güney , Erol Korkmaz Habibe Tuğba
Published: December 2024

The present study sought to explore the mediating effects of basic psychological needs satisfaction (BPNS) and subjective well-being (SWB) on the link between identification with all humanity (IWAH) and physical health problem (PHP). The sample consisted of 552 young and middle-aged Turkish adults ( Mage = 29.53 ± 8.67; 60.0% women, 40.0% men). The findings indicated that BPNS has a statistically significant mediating role in the relationship between IWAH and PHP, whereas SWB did not have a mediating role in this relationship. However, the findings revealed that BPNS and SWB have a serial mediating role in the relationship between IWAH and PHP, even while controlling for gender, age, and socioeconomic status. The results improve our understanding of how social identity may be related to physical health, and fill a gap in the existing literature on IWAH. Thus, the current study has implications for future research and practice by drawing attention to IWAH.
Comparing Sinn Féin between North and South: Do institutional context and varying public attitudes drive party policy preferences?
Authors: Arlow Jonathan
Published: December 2024

One underexplored aspect of Sinn Féin is its position as an electorally competitive party that operates simultaneously in two separate jurisdictions. Sinn Féin’s operation (i.e. one centralised party, two jurisdictions) allows for a Most Similar Systems Design which can help determine how – and to what extent – its policy preferences differ between North and South. This also provides a test of issue competition and agenda-setting theory, which assumes that policy preferences must adapt to the unique vote and office-seeking incentives operating on political parties within states. This article draws upon new datasets from the Irish Policy Agendas Project and the Public Policy Agendas on a Shared Island project which have coded party manifestos (North and South) based on the Comparative Agendas Project coding scheme. The results support the assumptions made by issue competition and agenda-setting theory. Sinn Féin in the North tends to prioritise the representation of nationalist concerns, while Sinn Féin in the South focuses on more typical social democratic issues. But when nationalist interests are secure in Northern Ireland, Sinn Féin’s policy focus shifts to bread-and-butter issues that resemble its policy preferences in the Republic of Ireland.
A low-frequency anechoic coating under high hydrostatic pressure by pressure balancing strategy
Authors: Hu Ningdong , Jin Jun , Hu Hongping
Published: December 2024

It has always been a challenge to develop low-frequency anechoic coatings under high hydrostatic pressure. Based on active pressure balancing strategy (APBS), the airbag embedding in Helmholtz resonator model is proposed to achieve low-frequency and broadband sound absorption under high hydrostatic pressure. Compared with some existing pressure resistance schemes, the proposed anechoic coating has a thinner and lighter structure, lower sound absorption frequency band, and can withstand higher pressure. The proposed anechoic coating achieves sound absorption coefficient larger than 0.5 within the bandwidth of 24.5∼1000 Hz under pressure of 0.1 MPa, and within the bandwidth of 73.6∼1000 Hz under pressure of 5 MPa. The thickness of 10 mm is less than 1‰ of the incident wavelength at 100 Hz. The proposed model provides a new solution to the problem of improving low-frequency sound absorption performance of the anechoic coating under high hydrostatic pressure.
Exploring Transportation Challenges and Opportunities for Mobility-Vulnerable Populations Through the Social-Ecological Model
Authors: Jeghers Mary , Winter Sandra , Classen Sherrilene
Published: December 2024

Community mobility is a vital activity of daily living. Mobility-vulnerable populations—individuals with incomes below the federal poverty threshold, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and older adults—face transit disparities. Advanced technologies (e.g., ride-sharing) may mitigate transportation inequities, but limited evidence considers mobility-vulnerable populations. Utilizing the social-ecological model, the team examined challenges and opportunities associated with transportation availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and adaptability among two socioeconomic communities. Four focus groups were conducted using community-based participatory research principles. Community advisory boards informed focus group development and implementation. A thematic analysis was performed using the social-ecological model. Participants ( N = 23) experienced transportation challenges and opportunities at all levels of the social-ecological model—individual (e.g., bus availability), relationship (e.g., peer support), community (e.g., safety), and societal (e.g., social isolation). Findings indicate the importance of looking beyond individual factors and exploring relationships, community, and societal impacts on transportation use.
Emotion Regulation Assessment: A New Perspective Using Simultaneous Electroencephalographic and Electrodermal Recordings
Authors: Sistiaga Sonia , Bodart Alice , Sequeira Henrique , Campanella Salvatore
Published: December 2024

Recognized as a transdiagnostic factor, emotion regulation (ER) is increasingly embedded into conceptualizations of psychopathology development and maintenance, emerging as a core component of treatment methodologies. Therefore, the incorporation of ER into various facets of affective sciences, including theoretical frameworks, experimental paradigms, assessment methods, and intervention strategies, raises new challenges, particularly regarding the measurement of ER. In the evaluation and understanding of complex, multifaceted processes like ER, the combination of different assessment methods encompassing diverse units of analysis across multiple domains encompassing cerebral, physiological, and behavioral measures can prove particularly interesting. Among these approaches, the concurrent recording of electroencephalographic (EEG) and electrodermal activity (EDA) emerges as a promising strategy, enabling a more holistic exploration of the ER process at both central and peripheral levels. This brief paper aims to explore current literature concerning the utilization of EEG and EDA in the investigation of ER and to bring arguments supporting their simultaneous recording in order to gain a better understanding of ER processes.
The application and optimization of rolling processing technology in improving the efficiency of deep hole processing
Authors: Chunlei Tian , Yan Cao , Tian Chen , Tianlong Yuan
Published: December 2024

With the advancement of technology, the field of deep hole processing faces dual challenges of increased precision and increased production. Although traditional honing and grinding processes dominate, they are inefficient and do not adapt to large-scale production. Rolling processing technology has become an alternative solution with its advantages of high precision and high efficiency. This study aims to apply rolling processing to deep hole processing to improve efficiency. An elastic-plastic model was constructed to clarify the relationship between stress, strain, and displacement, and it was transformed into a simulated flow plastic stress equation. A finite element model was established, and its accuracy was verified through experiments, revealing the effects of various parameters on stress and strain. In the experimental stage, the amount of interference, feed speed, and rotation speed were identified as the main influencing factors, and a multi-objective optimization model was established accordingly. Comparative analysis showed that the grinding accuracy was the highest (0.13 μm), while the multi-objective optimization combination and variance combination reached 0.22 and 0.31 μm, respectively. In terms of processing efficiency, rolling is ten times that of grinding. Rolling processing can replace some grinding processes under specific conditions, significantly improving efficiency, which is of great significance for the development of deep hole processing technology.
Review on the mechanism of failure mode based on mechanical performance analysis of brake disc
Authors: Li Dongna , Sun Dele , Xi Huigui , Dai Jianfeng
Published: December 2024

The reliability and efficiency of brake discs are crucial for ensuring the safe operation of vehicles. With the growing demands of industrial applications and technological advancements, the mechanical performance and failure issues of brake discs have garnered extensive attention. To better understand the mechanisms affecting the mechanical performance and failure modes of brake discs, a comprehensive review of the influencing factors on their mechanical properties is presented. This includes an examination of the impact of brake disc structure, materials, and working conditions from both numerical simulation and experimental perspectives. Furthermore, the effects of temperature distribution and stress distribution on different failure modes of brake discs are summarized. Based on thermomechanical coupling theory, the failure modes under varying temperature and stress conditions are analyzed. Finally, considering the current research status of brake discs, in-depth mechanical performance analysis and failure mode studies can provide significant theoretical and practical guidance for designing more durable and safer brake discs.
Outcomes of prophylactic fasciotomy in patients with non-traumatic acute limb ischemia
Authors: Apichartpiyakul Poon , Khorana Jiraporn , Rerkasem Kittipan , Tantraworasin Apichat
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Post-reperfusion compartment syndrome is an emergency consequence following revascularization of acute limb ischemia. Fasciotomy is the gold standard treatment for acute compartment syndrome. Some surgeons perform prophylactic fasciotomy (PF) during the same operation; however, fasciotomy may lead to wound complications and an increased length of hospital stay. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of prophylactic fasciotomy in our hospital.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational cohort study. We reviewed the data of acute limb ischemia patients at Maharaj Nakorn Chiangmai Hospital, who were diagnosed with non-traumatic acute limb ischemia and received revascularization between January 2006 and August 2022. The primary outcomes are 30-day amputation-free survival (AFS) and overall survival (OS). Propensity score weighting with confounder adjustment was used to balance peri-operative confounders.

Results

From our data, there were 56 patients in the PF group and 301 in the non-prophylactic fasciotomy (NPF) group. The 30-day amputation rates were 12.5% and 10% in the PF and NPF groups, respectively ( p-value 0.895). The 30-day AFS was similar between the PF and NPF groups, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32-2.45, and a p-value of 0.882. The 30-day OS in the PF group was statistically lower than that in the NPF group, HR 4.09, 95% CI 1.55-10.77, and a p-value of 0.004. The 1-year and 5-year AFS were not significantly different between the PF and NPF groups. However, the 1-year and 5-year OS were lower in the PF group compared to the NPF group, with HR 3.44, 95% CI 1.37-8.65, and a p-value of 0.009, and HR 3.04, 95% CI 1.24-7.45, and a p-value of 0.015, respectively. Fasciotomy wound infection rates were higher in the PF group compared to the NPF group, 5.5% versus 1.7%, respectively, p-value 0.017. Other clinical outcomes did not show significant statistical differences.

Conclusions

Prophylactic fasciotomy may not improve amputation-free survival (AFS) but increases mortality, particularly within the first 30 days, even in some high-risk patients. The use of prophylactic fasciotomy should be limited to cases where it is clearly indicated.
Efficacy and safety of prucalopride in patients with chronic idiopathic constipation stratified by age, body mass index, and renal function: a post hoc analysis of phase III and IV, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies
Authors: Lembo Anthony , Staller Kyle , Boules Mena , Feuerstadt Paul , Spalding William , Gabriel André , Youssef Ashraf , Xie Yunlong , Terreri Brian , Cash Brooks D.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Prucalopride (1 or 2 mg once daily) is approved for treating adults with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC).

Objectives:

We determined the effect of age, body mass index (BMI), and renal function on the efficacy and safety of prucalopride in adults with CIC.

Design:

Data were pooled from six 12-week, phase III–IV clinical studies in adults who received prucalopride (1 or 2 mg once daily) or placebo for CIC.

Methods:

Adults were stratified by age (<50; 50–64; ⩾65 years), BMI (underweight/healthy weight, <25 kg/m2; overweight, 25 to <30 kg/m2; obese, ⩾30 kg/m2), and renal function (normal renal function, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ⩾90 mL/min/1.73 m2; mild renal impairment, eGFR 60 to <90 mL/min/1.73 m2; moderate renal impairment, eGFR 30 to <60 mL/min/1.73 m2). The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients with a mean of ⩾3 complete spontaneous bowel movements/week over 12 weeks. Safety data were evaluated descriptively.

Results:

Of 2484 patients stratified by age (prucalopride, n = 1237; placebo, n = 1247), 1402, 708, and 374 were aged <50, 50–64, and ⩾65 years, respectively. Of 2482 patients stratified by BMI (prucalopride, n = 1237; placebo, n = 1245), 1425, 713, and 344 were underweight/healthy weight, overweight, and obese, respectively. Of 2474 patients stratified by renal function (prucalopride, n = 1233; placebo, n = 1241), 1444, 869, and 161 had normal renal function, mild renal impairment, and moderate renal impairment, respectively. More prucalopride-treated than placebo-treated patients achieved the primary efficacy endpoint. The difference was significant for all subgroups, except for the obese and moderate renal impairment subgroups. More prucalopride-treated than placebo-treated patients reported treatment-related adverse events in most subgroups.

Conclusion:

Prucalopride demonstrated efficacy in adults with CIC, irrespective of age, BMI, and renal function. No unexpected safety concerns were identified.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ ): NCT01147926, NCT01424228, NCT01116206, NCT00483886, NCT00485940, NCT00488137.