bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical properties and deformation mechanism of AZ31B joints under cryogenic temperature and high strain rate loading
Authors: Liu Yongji , Huang Lijuan , Ru Jieqi , Kong Lingya , Song Wenjie , Heng Zhonghao
Published: August 2024

The microstructure and texture of many Mg alloys prepared by friction stir welding (FSW) have been investigated with associated to mechanical properties. However, the microstructure evolution and its correlation with mechanical properties are rarely studied in cryogenic temperature and high strain rate loading. In this work, the microstructure and mechanical behavior of Mg alloy joints, AZ31B, were investigated. The findings unveiled that the decrease of loading temperature promoted the compress twin activation, accompanied by an increase in ultimate strength and a slightly decrease in plasticity. The enhanced of ultimate tensile strength (about 60 MPa) from 25°C to −50°C is ascribed to twin-twin interactions and increased amount of compression twin({10-11}and{10-13}). The decrease of plasticity (about 4.5%) is associated to the stress concentration, due to the dislocation thermal activation is suppressed.
Facile mechanical fabrication of Cu-Ni/CNT nanocomposite for improved microstructural, hardness, and electrical characteristics
Authors: Bakhshaei P. , Ataie A. , Abdizadeh H.
Published: August 2024

Cu-Ni/CNT nanocomposites with varying quantities of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were synthesized via mechanical alloying. Subsequently, the nanocomposite powders were consolidated through cold pressing and sintering. The microstructure, CNT distribution, hardness, and electrical properties were evaluated using XRD, FESEM, hardness testing, and the four-point probe techniques. A homogeneous Cu-Ni alloy with an average particle size of 30 nm was obtained after 10 h of ball milling. Addition of 5 wt.% CNTs resulted in a significant 21.5% increase in density, a notable 142.9% enhancement in macro-hardness, and over 50% reduction in electrical resistivity. Optical micrographs demonstrated that CNT incorporation effectively inhibited matrix grain coarsening, corroborated by microhardness measurements indicating uniform CNT distribution within the copper-nickel matrix, facilitated by the milling process.
Testicular tumors in commercial boars with infertility: A gross, histologic, and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Ausejo Raquel , Falceto María Victoria , Mitjana Olga , Garrido Ana María , Badiola Juan José , Moreno Bernardino
Published: August 2024

Tumors in boars are uncommon, and testicular tumors even rarer. This study describes the pathological and immunohistochemical characteristics of a case series of testicular tumors in commercial boars with fertility problems. Tumors were detected in 19 of 333 animals (19/333, 5.9%). Macroscopically, tumors were observed in 13 (13/19, 68%) boars, while 6 cases (6/19, 32%) were only detected by microscopic examination. Testicular enlargement was observed in 1 boar, while in the others, tumors were only observed after removal of the scrotal skin or after sectioning of the testis. Histologically, tumors were classified as seminomas (16/19, 84%), mixed germ cell-stromal tumors (2/19, 11%), and B-cell lymphoma (1/19, 5%). Seminomas had 3 different growth patterns: intratubular (6/16, 38%), diffuse (4/16, 25%), and intratubular/diffuse (6/16, 38%). All tumors that were not evident on macroscopic examination were intratubular seminomas. Intratesticular metastases were observed in 2 cases and extratesticular metastases, located in the pampiniform plexus, were observed in 1 case. In 1 seminoma, the rete testis was also involved. By immunohistochemistry, all intratubular seminomas were negative for c-kit, cytokeratin, and vimentin. In diffuse seminomas, c-kit and cytokeratin were also negative, while vimentin showed granular or perinuclear cytoplasmic labeling in some areas. PAX-5 and CD-3 antibodies classified the lymphoma as a B-cell lymphoma. This study suggests that testicular tumors in boars may be more common than previously reported, especially when microscopic examination is performed. It also shows that testicular tumors in pigs are predominantly seminomas.
Bettie’s travels: How pigs enable new connections between human health innovations and industrial agricultural pork production in Denmark
Authors: Pihl Eva Vibeke Kofoed
Published: August 2024

Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork, this paper unfolds the past and present uses of pigs that structured the emergence of a pig model of gut-hormone based appetite control, leading to the current scientific breakthrough in treatment of obesity. While the hyping of next generation medications for obesity and type 2 diabetes centers on the efficacy and profits attached to these drugs, I unfold how science embedded in this development had the in-vivo and in-vitro travels of Bettie—an obese Göttingen Minipig pig—at its heart. Tracing how she became embedded in a circuit of vitality connecting industrial agriculture and science on human health, I show how both are governed by a shared valuation of pigs’ fat. Bettie’s fat, however, was not to be eaten. Instead, Bettie was consumed in knowledge production. For pigs to enter this new trajectory, Bettie emerged as a promissory site for extraction of molecular information made possible by new visualization technologies and representational strategies that allowed for the coupling of human-pig physiology at the cellular level. While her travels were spurred by the hope of discovery of small molecules, Bettie allows us to grasp an important shift in science, as the insights derived from her work emphasized the importance of physiology and the environment for human obesity. In doing so, she served as a visceral model. On a larger scale, Bettie’s entering science on human health reflects a recursive structure of knowledge in which the present problems with obesity and type 2 diabetes derive from the solutions to previous problems associated with alleviating hunger.
An Epidemiological Study of Physical–Mental Multimorbidity in Youth: Une étude épidémiologique de la morbidité physique-mentale chez les jeunes
Authors: Reaume Shannon V. , Dubin Joel A. , Perlman Christopher , Ferro Mark A.
Published: August 2024

Objective

This epidemiological study estimated the lifetime prevalence of chronic physical illness (i.e., an illness that lasted or was expected to last ≥6 months) and 6-month prevalence of mental disorder and multimorbidity (i.e., ≥1 physical illness and ≥1 mental disorder) in youth. Associations between physical illness and mental disorder were quantified, including the number of illnesses. Secondary objectives examined factors associated with mental disorder, after controlling for physical illness.

Methods

Data come from 10,303 youth aged 4–17 years in the 2014 Ontario Child Health Study (OCHS). Physical illness was measured using a list of chronic conditions developed by Statistics Canada. Mental disorders were measured using the OCHS Emotional Behavioural Scales. The Health Utility Index Mark III assessed overall functional health.

Results

Weighted prevalence estimates showed 550,090 (27.8%) youth had physical illness, 291,986 (14.8%) had mental disorder, and 108,435 (5.4%) had multimorbidity. Physical illness was not associated with mental disorder. However, youth with 2 physical illnesses, as compared to no physical illnesses, had increased odds of having any mental (OR = 1.75 [1.08, 2.85]), mood (OR = 2.50 [1.39, 4.48]) and anxiety disorders (OR = 2.40 [1.33, 4.31]). Mean functional health scores demonstrated a dose–response association across health status categories, with the highest scores among healthy youth and the lowest scores among multimorbid youth (all p < .05).

Conclusion

Chronic physical illness and mental disorders are prevalent in youth. Youths with 2 physical illnesses have a higher likelihood of mental disorders. Higher functional health scores protected against all mental disorders. Mental health interventions for youth should promote strong overall functional health.

Plain Language Summary Title

Physical-Mental Multimorbidity in Ontario Youth
Fire-safe composites made from bio-derived and difunctional benzoxazine hybridized matrix reinforced with Pistachio shell particles
Authors: Khan Gorar Athar Ali , Zhiyi Guo , Wang Zhicheng , Qiufei Chen , Daham Abbas , Ashraf Muhammad Nadeem , Wang Jun , Liu Wen-Bin
Published: August 2024

An isothermal compression molding process was used to create composites reinforced with pistachio shell particles. The composites were made using Bisphenol A–aniline-based benzoxazine and bio-based benzoxazine (VB) monomers derived from vanillin and furfuryl amine. The benzoxazine composites were developed by following green chemistry principles and blending with different weight percentages of Alkali treated pistachio shell particles. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the structure of the VB monomer. Differential scanning calorimetry study shows the curing behavior of monomers and their blends. Surface treatment significantly enhanced the filler’s thermal stability. Copolymerization improved mobility and helped to align the chain and activate reactive groups at lower temperatures, lowering the curing temperature to 229°C with the inclusion of particles. The mechanical properties of composites are significantly enhanced. Compared to the neat matrix, composites showed a maximum increase of 155% in bending strength and 104.5% in impact tests. The theoretical model and simulation results are in good agreement with the experiment data. Thermogravimetric analysis of composites showed that neat polymers and composites have excellent thermal stability ( T10% of 296; Y c 38.4%). The flammability test (UL-94) reveals that composites are rated as V-0 and can be categorized as flame-retardant materials.
Experimental investigation of trans-scale displacement responses of wrinkle defects in fiber-reinforced composite laminates
Authors: Ma Li , Wang Shoulong , Liu Changchen , Wen Ange , Ying Kaidi , Guo Jing
Published: August 2024

Wrinkle defects were found widely existing in the field of industrial products, that is, wind turbine blades and filament-wound composite pressure vessels. The magnitude of wrinkle wavelength varies from several millimeters to over one hundred millimeters. The detection and quantificationally evaluation of these defects are critical for structural integrity assessments. This study introduces a meso-mechanical model using the homogenization method, which calculates the effective stiffness of graded wrinkle defects. Finite element analysis (FEA) predicts a trans-scale out-of-plane displacement response in wrinkled laminates, with the maximum displacement ranges from nanoscale to millimeter scale. To address this, we utilized shearography (Speckle Pattern Shearing Interferometry) for nanoscale displacements and fringe projection profilometry (FPP) method for larger displacements. In FPP method, a displacement extraction algorithm was presented to obtain the out-of-plane displacement. Comparative analysis indicates that shearography possesses higher sensitivity, capable of detecting load responses as low as 10 N, whereas FPP requires a load range from 200 N to 1000 N. The FEA-validated measurement errors for shearography and FPP are within 3.3%–7.1% and 2.8%–10.5%. The comparison of measurement sensitivity and accuracy between shearography and FPP provides a quantitative reference for industrial non-destructive tests.
Preparation and functional study of epoxy composites reinforced with ultra-low content single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Yang Yuxuan , Li Wei , Cui Xiaoyu , Ding Kaifei , Zhang Lu , Li Hongmei , Wang Baichen , Ma Keming , Lu Shaowei
Published: August 2024

In this paper, ultra-low content single-walled carbon nanotube(SWCNT)/epoxy composites were prepared by non-covalent modification of SWCNTs, which improved the dispersion of SWCNTs in epoxy resin, and their properties were investigated. It was shown that the electrical conductivity of SWCNT/epoxy composites increased by 7 orders of magnitude over that of epoxy resin when the content of SWCNTs was 0.005 wt%. The impact strength, tensile strength, and elastic modulus of the materials were increased by 47.9%, 58.9%, and 19.0%, respectively, and the strengthening mechanism of SWCNTs on the matrix was analyzed by SEM. Then SWCNTs were introduced into carbon fiber (CF)/epoxy composites and carbon fiber pressure vessels. In comparison to CF/epoxy composites, the shear and tensile strengths of SWCNT/CF/epoxy composites exhibited an increase of 49.2% and 9.8%, respectively, and the bursting pressure of nano-modified pressure vessels was increased by 15.5%. This study provides a new application method for nano-modified epoxy resins and broadens the application fields of epoxy resins.
Investigating tribological performance in 3D-printed PETG/graphene composites of varying composition
Authors: Bedi Surjeet Singh , Mallesha Vasu
Published: August 2024

This work examines the effects of several graphene compositions (0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.1 wt%) on 3D-printed polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG) composites on their sliding wear properties that were created using fused deposition modeling (FDM) following ASTM G99-05 guidelines and the filament of each composition with a diameter of 1.75 mm has been prepared by the compounding and blending process using twin-screw extruder. The sliding wear characteristics are systematically assessed using a pin-on-disc tribometer, with three parameters: a load of 10  N, a standardized wear track diameter of 70 mm, and a rotational speed of 300 r/min. This innovative study explores the impact of low graphene loading on the sliding wear and coefficient of friction of PETG composites, revealing how minimal graphene enhancements significantly decrease wear rates and friction levels. These insights facilitate the development of PETG-based materials with tailored tribological properties, ideal for high-wear applications in industries such as automotive and aerospace, where material longevity and performance are critically important. The investigation showed that the reinforcement of graphene in PETG reduced the coefficient of friction (CoF) and showed better results when graphene’s weight percentage increased from 0.06 wt% to 0.1 wt%. However, it did not help to minimize the specific wear rate (SWR) at the selected parameters for the sliding wear test. Out of all other concentrations of PETG/graphene composites, 0.04 wt% of graphene reinforcement showed a lower SWR but not less than pure PETG. Further, an investigation needs to be done for the discrepancies in the results.
Making hospitals innovative: Macro-level policy to sustain micro-innovations in healthcare
Authors: Ramadi Khalil B. , More Saakshi , Shaji Anshuman
Published: August 2024

Successful innovation clusters are notoriously difficult to establish, and many attempts fail. How can we go about designing such systems reliably? We describe how ecosystems can be strengthened through grassroots bottom-up efforts that empower user and community innovation, as opposed to economic policies that dictate innovation. Specifically focusing on the healthcare industry, we advocate that community hospitals which constitute 90% of all hospitals in Canada are the ideal setting for such community innovation efforts. We investigated the distribution of innovation output from hospitals over the past 13 years and found a decrease in predominance of major teaching hospitals, supporting the potential role for community hospitals in this space. We categorize different types of innovations and recommend institutional policies that can sustain bottom-up, micro-level efforts. Such policies could improve and enhance the development of micro-innovations and the creation of health innovation clusters.
The Dilemma of Consumerist Masculinity in Capitalist West Africa: Men Navigating Gender, Class, and Romance in Sierra Leone’s Informal Economy
Authors: McDermott Joshua Lew
Published: August 2024

In urban Sierra Leone, more than 90% of young men survive precariously in the informal economy. Squeezed by an underdeveloped economy and the pressure to engage in a culture-ideology of consumerism indicative of twenty-first century capitalism, these men face the existential crisis of being unable to meet the material requirements for maintaining romantic relationships, caring for their families, and fulfilling expectations of a consumerist masculinity. This ethnography explores how these young men navigate this disconnect, grounding its analysis of masculinity in a class-based approach which centers the dearth of good jobs and the prevalence of informal work, both central features of capitalism in Africa today.
“We Try to Build Relationships”: The Role of School Community and Belonging on Career Preparedness
Authors: Slaten Christopher D. , Wadley Kate , Harris Paul C. , Sebastian Bini , Lee Jisu , Curs Bradley R.
Published: August 2024

High school graduation and successful entry into post-secondary education or the workforce has been a priority for educational policymakers, career development scholars, and educators for decades. Consensual qualitative research methods were used to analyze 11 education professionals working in high schools with high free and reduced lunch rates and were graduating students at a rate above the national average. Analysis of the data identified three domains: (a) School Climate (b) Community Impact and Involvement and, (c) Societal, Systemic, and Logistical Factors as being supportive of college and career readiness. Within domains were seven categories further describing specific factors perceived to be related to student post-secondary success. Limitations, future research directions, and implications for career development theory, practice, and practice will be discussed.
Scrotal edema due to bilateral metachronous tears in the spigelian fascia in a peritoneal dialysis patient: A case report
Authors: Watanabe Kentaro , Fukuoka Kosuke , Nishikawa Mana , Kanzaki Motoko , Shimada Noriaki , Asano Kenichiro
Published: August 2024

Scrotal and penile edema is a noninfectious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). A tear in the Spigelian fascia is occasionally recognized as a Spigelian hernia. However, there is no documented evidence that this is a contributing factor for scrotal edema in individuals undergoing PD. We encountered a case of scrotal edema in a patient undergoing PD due to bilateral metachronous tears in the Spigelian fascia, which was successfully treated through surgical repair. A 20-year-old man with end-stage kidney disease due to Alport syndrome underwent PD. Eight months after induction of PD, he heard a rupture sound in the left inguinal region after coughing and developed genital edema. A computed tomography scan showed a tear in the left Spigelian fascia. Surgical repair was successful and there was no recurrence after PD was resumed. Seven months after surgery, he heard a rupture sound in the right inguinal region after coughing and developed genital edema. A computed tomography scan showed a tear in the right Spigelian fascia. Surgical repair was successful and there has been no recurrence since. It is important to recognize that the development of scrotal edema in a patient undergoing PD may be indicative of a tear in the Spigelian fascia.
When a Children’s Literary Jury Imagines Other Children as Potential Readers: A Case of Collaborative Research
Authors: García González Macarena , Saona Ignacia , Arriagada Agustín , Saintard Mika
Published: August 2024

In 2022, the Chilean literary award Premio Medalla Colibrí had a children’s jury for the first time. This article has been written by four researchers, two adults and two children, who participated in this process and then studied the experience. We did interviews with different people involved and an analysis based on the notion of wonder. Here, we present some reflections on the criteria used by the children’s jury and some findings that surprised us during the research process.
An efficient explicit dynamic formulation of a Stewart platform parallel robot via new formalism
Authors: Baji Otman El , Amrani Nabil Ben Said , Sarsri Driss
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an explicit dynamic model for the 6-DOF Stewart platform parallel manipulator is established using a new formulation. The main principle of this formulation is to provide the final form of dynamic models based on a direct and systematic procedure; in more detail, the analytical expression of each term due to the dynamic effects, that is, the system inertia tensor, centrifugal/Coriolis tensor and the environment forces are developed according to only the physical parameters of the system (i.e., mass, inertia tensor, position of the center of mass and geometrical parameters) and generalized coordinates without the need for any complicated intermediate calculations such as the potential, kinetic and acceleration energy development. In this approach, the parallel manipulator is first opened into six serial legs and a free platform. Next, the dynamic models of each sub-structure can be easily obtained based on the new formulation in their own local space. The Jacobian and Hessian matrices of the constraint equations, resulting from the closed-loop chains, are then used to combine the substructure dynamics. Finally, a detailed dynamics model of the entire robot with respect to the workspace or the actuation space is developed. After that, a simulation of the suggested methodology is investigated and analyzed in comparison to the more established dynamic modeling techniques provided in the literature; the efficiency and correctness of our approach are then verified. It is shown that our method requires a lower computational cost and even competes with the implicit form of dynamic models. Finally, a trajectory-tracking problem using model-based control is presented. It is shown that our approach can be totally and efficiently computed online without the need for symbolic form of equations of motion, which is highly challenging for parallel manipulators.
Analysis of exit delamination mechanism and critical axial force in ball helical milling of CFRP
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Yu Wanchun , Feng Yan , Wang Qingchao
Published: August 2024

To determine the critical axial force of exit delamination in the ball helical milling (BHM) of CFRP, based on the classical laminar theory, the critical delamination is judged by the theory of virtual work displacement and the linear elastic fracture mechanics. The model that describes the crucial axial force in the BHM process is set up, given the anisotropy of CFRP and the specific shape of the ball end mill. The external force is a novel set as a quadratically distributed load dependent on the milling parameters in the model, and the relationship between the quantity of uncut remaining layers and the critical axial force is indicated. When the tool rotation speeds were 4000–8000 rpm, with 0.1–0.2 mm/rev axial feed and 0.02–0.04 mm/tooth tangential feed, helical milling experiments were carried out. The correlation among the milling parameters and axial force and exit delamination factor was investigated, taking into account the effect of tool wear. Comparing with the experimental data, combined with the exit delamination, the proposed model can well predict the critical axial force under different cutting conditions, and the milling parameters have a great impact on the axial forces and delamination. The hole-making delamination of the ball end mill is smaller compared to the end mill, and exit delamination of CFRP can be reduced in BHM technique.
Drilling performance analysis on super duplex stainless steel (AISI 2507) using scalable pulse power plasma TiSiN- and AlTiN-coated tools and optimizing machining parameters through Taguchi–Fuzzy approach
Authors: Agrawal Prajwal , Kenche Shivam , Kumar T Sampath
Published: August 2024

In recent years, super duplex stainless steel (SDSS) has gained a lot of importance due to its strength and excellent resistance to corrosion cracking for applications in marine and chemical processing industries, etc. In spite of various progress in the field, the drilling of SDSS leads to the formation of chips that are very strong and abrasive, which makes it challenging to have proper drilling. To overcome this issue by utilizing suitable parameters such as drill bit coating, environmental conditions and parameters for drilling. The SDSS machining output results were compared for both dry and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) conditions using coated and uncoated drill bits. A scalable pulse power plasma (S3P) technique was utilized to deposit the titanium silicon nitride (TiSiN) and aluminum titanium nitride (AlTiN) coatings on solid carbide drill bits. In the experiments, three levels of drilling parameters have been chosen, including spindle speed (550, 700, 850 rpm), feed rate (0.035, 0.045, 0.060 m/min), and drill bit types. The experiment was designed using Taguchi's orthogonal L9 array. The influence of machining parameters such as cutting force, surface roughness, and circularity error were examined using variance analysis (ANOVA) and signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios. To enhance the drilling process parameters through a single comprehensive output measure, the obtained results were taken as an input to the fuzzy logic networks using multi-factor analysis. At the L7 trial, the least cutting force was observed at 525.7 N for dry conditions and 227.6 N for MQL conditions and gave cone-spiral and continuous chips. In order to analyze the signal-to-noise ratio effectively, high value correspond to better-quality characteristics. In accordance with ANOVA results pertaining to cutting force, a percentage contribution variance of 48.92% was obtained for the feed rate, which contributed to cutting force to a greater extent, followed by 36.82% for spindle speed and 14.19% for the type of drill bit.
The mechanism of polygonal wheel wear considering a three-dimensional profile
Authors: Fu Yaodong , Wang Muzi , Cui Dabin , Lu Ping , Li Xinyi , Liu Tao
Published: August 2024

Wheel polygonal wear is one of the most serious problems in the railway industry nowadays. To study the mechanism of wheel polygonal wear, the wear prediction model was established. The three-dimensional wheel profile model and the improved USFD wear prediction algorithm were used to research the wear state of the wheel. The vehicle system dynamic characteristics and wheel wear state under different running speeds are studied. The results show that the vibration state of the wheel will be affected by the vertical and lateral coupling vibration of the wheel when considering the three-dimensional wheel polygonal wear. Due to the influence of coupled vibration, the wheel will appear larger wheel-rail force fluctuation points at different phase angles. The large wheel-rail force fluctuation at these different phase angles is one of the reasons for the formation of wheel polygonal wear. At the same time, the natural mode of the vehicle system will also affect the order of the wheel polygon and the amplitude of the wheel polygon. This study provides a new idea for the research of the wheel polygon mechanism.
Blood-based biomarkers of neuronal and glial injury in active major neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Kammeyer Ryan , Chapman Kimberly , Furniss Anna , Hsieh Elena , Fuhlbrigge Robert , Ogbu Ekemini A. , Boackle Susan , Zell JoAnn , Nair Kavita V. , Borko Tyler L. , Cooper Jennifer C. , Bennett Jeffrey L. , Piquet Amanda L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) is a poorly understood and heterogeneous manifestation of SLE. Common major NPSLE syndromes include strokes, seizures, myelitis, and aseptic meningitis. Easily obtainable biomarkers are needed to assist in early diagnosis and improve outcomes for NPSLE. A frequent end-result of major syndromes is neuronal or glial injury. Blood-based neurofilament light (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) have been utilized as markers for monitoring disease activity and/or severity in other neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases; however, they have not been evaluated in active major NPSLE.

Methods

This was a case-control study. We enrolled patients aged 12-60 years with active major NPSLE, SLE without active major NPSLE, and healthy controls. Active NPSLE was defined as being <6 months from last new or worsening neuropsychiatric symptom. Demographics, clinical data, and serum or plasma biosamples were collected.

Results

Thirteen patients with active major NPSLE, 13 age/sex/kidney function matched SLE controls without active major NPSLE, and 13 age/sex matched healthy controls (mean ages 26.8, 27.3, 26.6 years) were included. 92% of each group were female. Major syndromes included stroke (5), autonomic disorder (3), demyelinating disease (2), aseptic meningitis (2), sensorimotor polyneuropathy (2), cranial neuropathy (1), seizures (1), and myelopathy (2). Mean (standard deviation) blood NfL and GFAP were 3.6 pg/ml (2.0) and 50.4 pg/ml (15.0), respectively, for the healthy controls. Compared to healthy controls, SLE without active major NPSLE had mean blood NfL and GFAP levels 1.3 pg/ml ( p = .42) and 1.2 pg/ml higher ( p = .53), respectively. Blood NfL was on average 17.9 pg/ml higher (95% CI: 9.2, 34.5; p < .001) and blood GFAP was on average 3.2 pg/ml higher (95% CI: 1.9, 5.5; p < .001) for cases of active major NPSLE compared to SLE without active major NPSLE. In a subset of 6 patients sampled at multiple time points, blood NfL and GFAP decreased after immunotherapy.

Conclusions

Blood NfL and GFAP levels are elevated in persons with SLE with active major NPSLE compared to disease matched controls and may lower after immunotherapy initiation. Larger and longitudinal studies are needed to ascertain their utility in a clinical setting.
A review of Leech and Short’s norms of speech and thought presentation
Authors: Ikeo Reiko , Miura Aika
Published: August 2024

This paper discusses how the concept of norms of speech and thought presentation relates to speech and thought presentation in actual texts with reference to the examination of two corpora, Semino and Short’s discourse presentation corpus, and a corpus of contemporary present-tense fiction. Through this approach, we review the meanings of the norms in each kind of discourse presentation. Leech and Short suggest that the norm of speech presentation is direct speech (DS) and the norm of thought presentation is indirect thought (IT). Examining their claim quantitatively and qualitatively, we will discuss how forms of speech and thought presentation are chosen in different socio-lingual contexts. Our examination strongly indicates that DS predominantly serves as the norm for speech presentation. However, thought presentation exhibits a higher degree of variability, influenced by genre, text type, and narrative tense and mode, and thus our investigation did not ascertain a singular category that consistently prevails quantitatively over others in thought presentation.
A Cross-sectional Survey on the Relationship Between Nurses’ Fear of COVID-19 Infection and Burnout: The Moderating Role of Psychological Capital
Authors: Basar Ufuk , Yalcintas Murat , Iyigun Oyku
Published: August 2024

The aims of this research were to uncover whether nurses’ fear of catching COVID-19 resulted in burnout, whether their psychological capital remediated the fear of catching COVID-19 and burnout, and whether it moderated the prospective association between fear of catching COVID-19 and burnout. A deductive, explanatory and cross-sectional design has been employed in this research. The sample consisted of 734 nurses from Istanbul, Turkey. A questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data between 14 April and 11 May 2021. Discrepancies between average scores of variables were investigated according to the pandemic-related criteria through t-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. The partial least squares structural equation modelling technique was used to analyse proposed relationships. Findings indicated that nurses from public pandemic hospitals reported the highest levels of burnout and fear of infection and the lowest levels of psychological capital components. Fear of COVID-19 infection resulted in burnout more weakly among nurses who had a high level of psychological resilience. Optimism impacted burnout negatively. Hope impacted the fear of catching COVID-19 negatively.
Whether Managers Bias Fair Value Estimates for Investment Property to Meet/Beat Analysts’ Earnings Forecasts?
Authors: Bi Chao , Cao June , Huang Linhua , Zhang Ruili
Published: August 2024

Fair value accounting may induce earnings manipulation in a weak institutional environment. Our article investigates whether managers bias fair value estimates for investment property when meeting/beating analysts’ earnings forecasts. The empirical results indicate that firms reporting investment property at fair value are more likely to meet/beat analyst forecasts in the weak institutional environment of China. Moreover, managers trade off accrual-based earnings management with fair value estimates for investment property when meeting/beating analysts’ earnings forecasts. In addition, further analysis also reveals that managerial incentives to bias fair value estimates are constrained by high-quality audit. The findings shed new light on the unintended consequences on fair value accounting under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and have important policy implications for regulators and accounting standard setters.
Promoting Global Health Knowledge and Cultural Competence of Swedish and Somali Nursing Students Through Collaborative Virtual Seminars: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Örtlund Olivia M. , Andersson Inger , Osman Fatumo
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Engaging nursing students in transdisciplinary learning and collaborative activities will prepare them for future roles in promoting global health knowledge and cultural competence. The purpose of this study was to describe undergraduate nursing students’ experiences of participating in collaborative virtual seminars intended to promote global health knowledge and increase cultural competence between a university in Sweden and a university in Somaliland.

Methods:

A qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured individual interviews and focus group discussions was conducted. Notably, 27 nursing students who participated in a collaborative virtual seminar were included. Data were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Nursing students reported having gained profound comprehension of and a broadened perspective on global health, cultural awareness, and curiosity crucial for their roles as future global nurses.

Discussion:

Fostering global health knowledge and cultural competence among nursing students through collaborative virtual seminars is advantageous as it enhances their cultural competence in nursing.
South-East Asian Nurses’ Experiences Under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) in Japan: How Language Ability Affects Self-Confidence and Interpersonal Relationships
Authors: Nagaya Yoshiyuki , Gillin Nicola , Smith David
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Since 2009, nurses have relocated to Japan from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam under the auspices of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). We asked why some migrant nurses remain in Japan whereas others leave.

Method:

We applied the methodology of Constructivist Grounded Theory. All participants were internationally educated nurses (IENs) currently or formerly working in Japan after passing the National Nursing Examination.

Results:

Difficulty in mastering the Japanese language was established as one of the main themes. Initial coding elicited two explanatory sub-categories: lack of confidence in communication and effects of language difficulty on workplace relationships. One explains how practical experience in the workplace affected nurses’ confidence in communication. The other explains how levels of Japanese language attainment shaped relationships with colleagues.

Discussion:

These findings suggest a need to regulate the working conditions of foreign nurses, and a need for training schemes to optimize IEN retention.
How Individuals with Mental Health Challenges Coped During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Richardson Devon , Aranda Frances , Cook Judith A. , Swarbrick Margaret
Published: August 2024

There is growing awareness of the significant mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on many Americans. Less is known about the effects on individuals who were living with mental health conditions prior to the pandemic’s onset. In addition, little research has explored how this group is coping positively with the challenges of COVID-19. Understanding the strengths these individuals bring to pandemic demands and disruptions can inform recovery for these individuals in the aftermath of this public health emergency. Using results from a cross-sectional, online survey administered during April and May 2020, we use qualitative methods to examine how individuals with symptoms of depression and anxiety were coping with COVID-19. Participants were recruited from two networks of statewide behavioral health community programs in New Jersey and New York. Data come from 48 participants who reported current symptoms of anxiety assessed by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2 Scale and/or depression assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-2. These respondents demonstrated resilience in navigating disruptions brought on by COVID-19 and reported a range of healthy coping strategies. We identified three themes characterizing successful coping strategies, including utilizing social support systems, practicing self-care, and adjusting one’s mindset to deal with challenging experiences. When designing programs, policies, and clinical approaches to support people with mental health conditions, it is essential to focus on strengths. The coping strategies shared by the individuals in this study demonstrate and build on their resilience. More research is needed to discover the strengths people exhibit to deal with the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Realistic Evaluation of Homicide Reduction Programmes
Authors: Croci Gonzalo
Published: August 2024

The adapted EMMIE framework is based on the realist evaluation approach that seeks to understand what, how, for whom, and under what circumstances policies work. Realist evaluators aim to identify the underlying mechanisms that explain the functioning of policies. The framework refers to the (E) effect, (M) mechanism, (M) moderator/context, (I) implementation, and (E) economic costs of a policy. This research uses the adapted EMMIE framework to evaluate and assess the characteristics of 89 homicide reduction programmes. Results show that the EMMIE components for mechanisms and implementation were included to some extent by policymakers, but the remaining three components (i.e., moderators/context, effect size, and economic costs) registered low scores. It is concluded that the ineffectiveness of homicide reduction programmes may be due to deficiencies in programme evaluation and cost planning, but it may also be related to a lack of understanding of the contexts in which these programmes are supposed to work.
Silent Threats: The Unchecked Exploitation of Client Testimonials in Online Therapy Service Platforms
Authors: Lockhart Ezra N. S.
Published: August 2024

This article examines the ethical dilemmas and consequences associated with the solicitation and utilization of client testimonials in online therapy platforms. Drawing on ethical guidelines and recent incidents involving online counseling services, the article highlights how the commercialization of mental health care on these platforms prioritizes profit over ethical considerations, compromising client autonomy, confidentiality, and the integrity of the therapeutic relationship. The rise of online therapy platforms, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has introduced unique ethical challenges that demand proactive intervention. The article proposes strategies for maintaining ethical standards in online therapy platforms and emphasizes the importance of transparency, informed consent, and professional oversight in safeguarding client rights and preserving the integrity of the therapeutic profession.
The Representations of Caregiving in Informal Caregivers
Authors: Tricarico Francesca , Romaioli Diego , Meneghini Anna Maria
Published: August 2024

Informal caregiving is usually deemed stressful and an activity leading to worsening life conditions. Nevertheless, recent studies have suggested the possibility for an informal caregiver to simultaneously experience both positive and negative feelings, identifying in the positive assets the merit of raising resilience and a sense of self-effectiveness. To support informal caregivers and promote their personal well-being, which is crucial also for social well-being, research needs to focus on understanding how they perceive their experiences as caregivers. Based on the theoretical perspectives of caregiving system theory and social representation theory, this research had two aims: first, to compare in terms of caregiving system orientations (especially focusing on deactivation and anxious hyperactivation of the system) people with and without informal caregiving experiences and people who currently are or had been informal caregivers; second, to investigate whether the representations of the salient aspects of caregiving change according to currently being or having been an informal caregiver. The results showed differences in anxiety according to caregiver's experience (current vs. former) and revealed that those caregivers who reported higher scores in anxiety subscale, in comparison to those reporting lower scores in this dimension, tend to devote more attention to the self.
How We Treat Metastatic Castration-Sensitive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ionescu Filip , Zhang Jingsong
Published: August 2024

The treatment of metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer (mCSPC) has seen remarkable breakthroughs over the last few years. Diagnostic and therapeutic advances have given rise to debates about risk stratification and optimal first-line treatment selection, as well as to concerns about potential overtreatment in a disease state with a highly heterogeneous clinical behavior. Here, we use case reports from our practice to review the clinical trials exploring intensified triplet regimens combining androgen deprivation therapy with second-generation androgen receptor signaling inhibitors and docetaxel, and we offer our recommendations on how to best select candidates for these novel combinations. Furthermore, the growing adoption of PET imaging with increasingly sensitive and prostate tissue-specific tracers replacing conventional staging technologies has led to the identification of a subset of low-volume mCSPC with nodal metastases which would otherwise not be considered abnormal by RECIST criteria. We describe our PSA-adapted approach to treatment in this unique population with non-measurable low-volume mCSPC which has not been specifically investigated in any phase III clinical trials. We also discuss ongoing clinical trials evaluating treatment de-escalation strategies. Finally, we review how local treatment modalities directed at the prostate or distant sites of disease in oligometastatic CSPC may benefit patients, and how we incorporate metastasis-directed therapy in the management of mCSPC.
Combined Therapy of Chemotherapy and Radiofrequency Ablation for Pancreatic Cancer Patients With Metachronous Hepatic Metastatic Lesions After Radical Pancreatic Resection
Authors: Wang L. T. , Yang J. , Wu J. , Lu W. J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Hepatic metastasis frequently occurs in patients who have undergone radical pancreatic resection for pancreatic cancer. Besides chemotherapy, various local treatment approaches targeting hepatic lesions have been explored. However, research on radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as a localized therapy for hepatic metastasis is limited. Therefore, we conducted this retrospective study to provide clinical evidence.

Methods

This is a single-center, retrospective, cohort study. After radical pancreaticoduodenectomy, 32 patients developed metachronous hepatic metastasis with fewer than 3 lesions, the largest of which was less than 3 cm in diameter. These patients underwent combined treatment with chemotherapy and RFA. After 8 weeks of chemotherapy, patients received RFA for hepatic lesions. Additional chemotherapy was administered, and the patients’ tumor status and survival were monitored. The primary endpoint of this study was overall survival (OS). Factors affecting OS were analyzed using the Cox risk model.

Results

Among the 32 patients, the mean OS was 28.4 months. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the time (in months) of liver metastasis (HR = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.19; P < 0.001), the number of liver metastases (HR = 7.08, 95% CI: 1.85 to 27.08, P = 0.004), and PD (progressive disease) response to the second round of chemotherapy (HR = 29.50, 95% CI: 1.46 to 597.27; P = 0.027) were independent predictors of poorer survival.

Conclusion

Combined therapy with RFA and chemotherapy is safe in patients with hepatic metastasis after radical pancreaticoduodenectomy. Early recurrence (≤12 months), three liver metastatic lesions, and a poor response to the second round of chemotherapy were associated with poor survival.
A novel approach of fault diagnosis for gearbox based on VMD optimized by SSA and improved RCMDE
Authors: Cao Jiahao , Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Hongwei , Yin Runsheng
Published: August 2024

Gearboxes play a vital role in the power transmission of mechanical equipment, and studying fault diagnosis methods is essential to ensure the normal operation of rotating machines. Since the vibration signal of the gearbox has unstable characteristics with strong background noise, a novel approach of fault diagnosis for wind turbine gearbox based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) optimized by sparrow search algorithm (SSA) and improved refined composite multi-scale dispersion entropy (IRCMDE) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, for reducing background noise, sample signals are decomposed by the model of SSA-VMD, and the denoised signals are recomposed according to the correlation coefficient. Then, the proposed IRCMDE under a certain scale factor is calculated to extract initial feature information of the recomposed signal. In the next step, the initial features are reduced to 3 dimensions by the algorithm of the Gaussian process latent variable model (GPLVM). Finally, a support vector machine (SVM) is used to diagnose the different states of gearbox faults. Experimental and comparative experimental results from the wind turbine drivetrain diagnostics simulator (WTDDS) show that the proposed method can quickly and accurately identify the fault of gear transmission.
Dying to Succeed: Unveiling the (Un)Hidden Toll of Academic Advancement for Black Women
Authors: McGee Ebony O.
Published: August 2024

As a Black woman recovering engineer, I shine a light on the damaging effects of racial stereotypes in academia, notably on Black women scholars. The unchecked emphasis on relentless pursuit of traditional academic excellence often results in profound negative consequences. Drawing from personal experiences and illuminating case studies of high-achieving Black women who met tragic ends prematurely, I underscore the pervasive systemic educational disparities, with a specific lens on STEM fields. My work pushes for an overhaul of the system, aimed at creating nurturing spaces where marginalized communities can thrive with dignity and respect. We need to shift the burden of battling systemic racism endured by Black women scholars. It’s time we transition from an unhealthy emphasis on relentless individual resilience to a systemic reorientation that prioritizes fostering inclusive academic environments. An intentional recognition and confrontation of overlapping identities is the key to cultivating intersectionality and eradicating gendered racism in education. This vital transformation holds the promise of creating an academia that truly values and benefits from Black women academics.