bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser frequency stabilization using Pound-Drever-Hall technique for Yb+ atomic clock experiment
Authors: Paensin N , Kaewuam R , Phoonthong P , Chattrapiban N , Thaicharoen N
Published: January 2025

The precise stabilization of laser frequencies is crucial for various applications in atomic physics, particularly in atomic clock experiments and ion cooling. The Pound-Drever-Hall (PDH) technique is a technique for locking laser frequencies to high-finesse optical cavities, ensuring exceptional frequency stability. This study focuses on designing an optical cavity as well as implementing the PDH technique to stabilize a 369-nm laser, essential for ytterbium ion (Yb+) cooling in atomic clock experiments. The results show that the 369-nm laser can maintain stability within a range of 5 MHz within 12 minutes, leading to effective stabilization for practical applications.
Search for additional Higgs bosons in fermionic final states with the CMS experiment
Authors: Chokeprasert Punnawich , Asawatangtrakuldee Chayanit
Published: January 2025

A search for additional Higgs boson in gluon-fusion production (ggϕ) and association production with at least one additional b quark (bϕ/

b

b
¯

ϕ

), in fermionic final states (

b

b
¯

, µ
+
µ
−, τ
+
τ
−) is performed using proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. The data were collected during 2016 - 2018 by the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN. The new scalar bosons are predicted by various beyond standard model (BSM) theories, such as the two Higgs doublet models (2HDMs) and the minimal supersymmetric extension of the standard model (MSSM). These models are the simplest extension of the standard model by one additional scalar field, resulting to five physical states of the Higgs boson, which are three neutral Higgs bosons (ϕ represents h,H,A), and two charged Higgs bosons H± . The production and decay modes allow the CMS experiment to search for additional neutral boson in the mass range of 60 GeV and up to 3500 GeV. The background processes considered include Drell-Yan (DY) process, heavy-flavor QCD multijet process, and single and pair production of t quarks, depending on the final state. No significant excess above the standard model (SM) processes is observed. Finally, the report provides model-independent upper limits at 95% confidence level on the pp → ϕ + X and pp → bφ/

b

b
¯

ϕ

+ X cross-sections in three fermionic final states,

b

b
¯

, µ
+
µ
−, τ
+
τ
−, separately.
L-I-H transition dynamics in magnetically confined plasma
Authors: Aungcharoen T , Ruffolo D , Klaywittaphat P , Chatthong B
Published: January 2025

The understanding of fundamental dynamics during the transition from low to high confinement mode in magnetically confined plasma is significant. This process requires a certain amount of external power to initiate the transition. In this work, we utilize a primitive model to study the dynamics of the transition with the preceding limit-cycle oscillation during power ramp-up. In addition, we show that the increasing linear zonal flow damping rate delays the onset of transitions and extends the duration of the oscillatory phase, suggesting the external particle injection leads to a delay of transition and power threshold upshift.
Development of humanoid robot joint module based on high-order tooth contour surface
Authors: Wang Yanzhong , Wang Zhiyong , Li Qiuliang , Lu Boji , Meng Zhaojun , Li Xianggang , Nie Shuoshuo
Published: January 2025

Joint modules are widely used in the field of humanoid robots because of their high energy density, large reduction ratio, and high corner accuracy. As a key driving component of robots, the high torque, high-precision control, and large reduction ratio of articulated modules have become a difficult problem to limit its application, so the design of the structure of articulated module reducer is of great significance to improve the precision and efficiency. Through the design of a double internal meshing structure based on a high-order tooth contour surface, combined with the design of a control module and overall module, a joint module for a humanoid robot is developed. The results show that the joint module has an angle error of about 0.4° and an efficiency of about 88% under the load of 50N-m, which has good precision and high efficiency under heavy load. It provides a reference for the development of the future application of humanoid robots.
Composite nonlinear feedback control for MEMS torsional mirror system with fast integral sliding mode
Authors: Cheng Yingjie
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a composite nonlinear feedback (CNF) control approach and fast integral sliding mode (FISM) to improve the MEMS torsional mirror system’s convergence rate and disturbance rejection abilities. The controller design takes actuator saturation and bounded disturbances into account. A novel reaching law is developed to get an enhanced rate of the sliding mode surface. This method can also effectively overcome the chattering issue. The designed control method can enable the controlled system to exhibit enhanced transient capability with disturbance suppression ability. The validity of CNF-FISM in terms of convergence rate and disturbance rejection abilities in comparison with CNF and CNF-ISM is demonstrated by simulation results.
Unmanned self-driving car based on the ROS system
Authors: Lv Xinyue , Gao Zhenzhen , Xue Hongyu , Meng Zekang , Li Wenbo
Published: January 2025

With the continuous development of technology and the acceleration of urbanization, unmanned autonomous driving technology has become an important research direction of contemporary automobile technology. This paper designs and implements an unmanned autonomous vehicle based on a machine, with the Ackermann structure as the overall model of the car in line with the frame structure of modern cars. STM32 MCU is used as the lower computer to control the MPU9250 attitude sensor and power drive module, then realize the angle and speed transformation of the car. The ROS system combined with the SLAM algorithm is used to complete the positioning and navigation of the car, and then the automatic driving function is realized. Through experiments, it can be found that the ROS-based unmanned autonomous vehicle system can effectively improve the accuracy and efficiency of vehicle driving and provide a new scheme for the future unmanned autonomous driving field.
Coordinated differential steering control of distributed drive unmanned vehicle based on multi-agent
Authors: Niu Qiang , Wei Wenjun
Published: January 2025

For a hub motor distributed drive electric vehicle (DDEV) with unmanned driving in complex environments, a multi-agent coordinated differential steering control strategy is proposed. Using a modular approach, an independently controllable hub motor wheel is used as the actuator unit, which is equipped with an independent motor controller and is considered as a whole as an agent unit. Then, a multi-agent differential steering model is established, and the agent decides on reasonable driving torque through communication so that differential steering can be realized more quickly while ensuring the stability of the whole vehicle. MATLAB/Simulink and CarSim were used for joint simulation to verify the control strategy in typical working conditions. The results show that the proposed control strategy can effectively achieve differential steering and provides a novel control method for DDEV.
Design of an intelligent flight control system for unmanned operation and maintenance of photovoltaic power plants in special scenarios
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zhang Feng , Zhang Bohan , Qiu Yutao , Mo Jianguo , Xie Xiahui
Published: January 2025

With the rapid construction and development of photovoltaic power plants, unmanned operation and maintenance has emerged as a trend and direction in the industry. Addressing the characteristics and needs of photovoltaic power plants in specific scenarios, this study proposes research on an applicable intelligent flight control system and implements it through system design. The research primarily encompasses the information fusion technology and decision-making methods of unmanned aerial vehicles in complex photovoltaic power plant environments. Additionally, it innovatively explores path planning and obstacle avoidance, high-precision motion control, and multi-machine collaborative work methods of unmanned aerial vehicles in complex environments. The research findings possess universal applicability and can provide guidance and inspiration for similar research projects.
Short-circuit fault characterization and line protection scheme based on bipolar MMC-HVDC flexible DC transmission
Authors: Zhang Hui , Wang Sihua
Published: January 2025

This article analyzes the fault characteristics of a flexible DC transmission system with two ends when a double tap short circuit occurs, and derives a equation for calculating the fault current. Adopting the principle of node diversion, a branch is added next to the bridge arm to reduce the fault current. A bipolar flexible power grid model is built using PSCAD/EMTDC for simulation, and the simulation results verify the feasibility of the protection scheme. This method effectively reduces the fault current flowing through the submodules and DC side when the system fails, ensuring the safe operation of the power grid.
Research on the quality traceability system of transformer production all-factor identification
Authors: Wang Liwen , Sun Wenlei , Lang Shuangman , Wu Xue
Published: January 2025

In order to meet the needs of intelligent manufacturing in the transformer production workshop, the manufacturing process of the transformer production workshop was analyzed, and the architecture of a transformer manufacturing traceability system was discussed. AHP was used to design the traceability weight of the system functional modules, and a fusion mechanism of all-factor identification information and quality traceability system was proposed. Based on RFID technology, a unique identification code is assigned to each transformer product, which effectively improves the efficiency and accuracy of product traceability and realizes the digital management of operation information in the production workshop. Finally, the quality traceability system of the transformer production workshop was developed using Java programming technology and the Hadoop platform. The research can provide a theoretical reference for the quality traceability of industrial products.
GIS-based method for evaluating solar PV potential at the regional level
Authors: Tang Yuanfu , Liao Jing , Shao Shichao , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Xinhua
Published: January 2025

The spatial distribution of solar energy is crucial for assessing potential areas and selecting appropriate building sites. Site selection for buildings is of significant importance. This research demonstrates how a comprehensive evaluation of distributed photovoltaic (PV) power generation potential on a regional scale can be achieved by integrating high-resolution solar radiation maps with various constraints. A regional solar PV potential model for Hunan Province was developed, and the capacity for distributed PV power generation in the region was projected using the map algebra function and solar radiation analysis tools in ArcGIS software.
Stability analysis of frequency small signal of grid-connected VSG based on passivity-based control
Authors: Xi Wenxin , Huang Ming , Lin Yechen
Published: January 2025

To achieve better frequency stability, the voltage and current inner loop control strategy based on Euler-Lagrange passivity-based control (EL-PBC) is used to replace the traditional PI control of microgrids under complex power grid conditions. To analyze the frequency stability of the grid-connected Virtual Synchronous Generators (VSG) system under disturbance conditions, a general small-signal model for a VSG system under EL-PBC is established. All characteristic roots of the system are obtained, and participation factors are calculated to identify the dominant state variables corresponding to these characteristic roots. A comparative analysis of the characteristic roots of the EL-PBC system versus traditional control systems is conducted. It shows that the frequency stability is better under passivity-based control under disturbance, and the influence of passivity-based control parameters on the characteristic roots is analyzed. Finally, the correctness of the theoretical analysis is verified by simulation.
Inverse dynamic problem for the Dirac system on finite metric graphs and the leaf peeling method
Authors: Avdonin Sergei , Avdonina Nina , Sus Olha
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we explore the inverse dynamic problem for the Dirac system on finite metric graphs, including trees and graphs with a cycle. Our primary objective is to reconstruct the graph’s topology (connectivity), determine the lengths of its edges, and identify the matrix potential function on each edge. By using only the dynamic matrix response operator as our inverse data, we adapt the leaf peeling method to recover the unknown data on a tree graph. We then introduce a new approach to reconstruct the unknown data on a graph with a cycle. Additionally, we present a novel dynamic algorithm to address the forward problem for the Dirac system on finite metric graphs.
Investigation of surface morphology, wettability and tribological properties of Ni composite coating added with graphite
Authors: Abdul Razak Muhammad Bustami , Liza Shahira , Fukuda Kanao , Mat Tahir Noor Ayuma , Khairunnisa Mohd Paad , Yaakob Yazid
Published: January 2025

Composite Nickel (Ni) coatings, which contain submicron graphite particles (400 nm in size), were deposited on AISI 1045 steel using a direct current electrodeposition technique from a Watts bath. The effects of different graphite particle concentrations (0, 0.2, 0.5 and 1 g l−1) on the surface and tribological properties of the composite Ni coatings were investigated. The introduction of graphite particles into a Ni electrodeposit was found to result in grain refinement, and the broccoli-like cluster structure was formed on the coating surface. Hence, the hydrophobicity of the coating was greatly improved. When the concentration of graphite particles is 1 g l−1, the hardness of the composite coating reaches 1346 ± 12.83 HV and the smallest width values of the wear scars as compared to the pristine Ni coating, which had a hardness of 268 ± 3.40 HV. These results reveal that the fine-grain strengthening effect and formation of a graphite-rich protective layer on the contact surfaces effectively enhance the tribological performance of the coating.
Introduction
Authors: Jonas Monique
Published: January 2025

Advice plays an important role in our social and moral lives. We sometimes feel compelled to advise even when we know it will be resented and may not be followed. At other times we sense that we should withhold advice we desperately want to give. As advisees, we can be grateful for challenging advice and resentful of advice we agree with. We sometimes accept advice from strangers but find it presumptuous on other occasions. We can want, but also feel aggrieved by, advice from the people closest to us. It is all rather perplexing. This introduction unpacks the complex relational and ethical dynamics of advising that are explored in this book and sets out the plan of attack for the following chapters.
Conclusion
Authors: Jonas Monique
Published: January 2025

Chapter 1 examined the philosophical literature on advising via six key questions: What is advice? Why take advice? Why give advice? How should one advise? What are the qualities of a good advisor? and What should the advice relationship be like? It also collected several largely unexamined questions along the way: Should advice be tailored to what an advisee can do? What does it mean for advice to be practical? How discretionary must advice be? and Can advice aim at rousing an advisee to action? This chapter presents the outputs of the theory of advising presented in previous chapters by succinctly expressing them as answers to these questions.
Wittgenstein on Art (1966)
Authors: Wollheim Richard
Published: January 2025

Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889–1951) held that there is no essence to language, that it is held together by a complicated network of criss-crossing ‘family resemblances’. Wittgenstein did not say outright that art is similar, but Wollheim says it—and Morris Weitz (1916–1981) famously said something consonant with the idea some years earlier. It is structured by institutions, traditions, and conventions, and is intrinsically reflexive. The uniqueness of this marriage defies the logic of analytic philosophy, at last that which puts the judgement ‘x is beautiful’ at the top of its list. Aesthetic queries, instead, should be involved with the constant negotiation between tradition, the very theory of art, and individual creativities. In the book of lectures as transcribed by students known as Lectures and Conversations on Aesthetics, Psychology and Religious Belief, Wollheim duly praises Wittgenstein’s general outlook as just described, but finds disappointing his emphasis, if it was his emphasis, on the notion of ‘appreciation’ and of the ‘peculiar impressions’ one has of works of art.
On the Question ‘Why Is Painting an Art?’ (1984)
Authors: Wollheim Richard
Published: January 2025

To ask seriously ‘What is it about painting that makes it an art?’ is to ask a ‘question the answer to which [ ... ] must cite a feature or aspect that painting possesses’. In broadest terms, that feature is that a painting carries meaning, which Wollheim explains as ‘a matter of appropriateness or fit’, between the artist’s intention and the look of the painting, corroborated by the artist and informed spectator. But any information may be required, including being explicitly told what it expresses, in order for the spectator rightly to perceive the work. Historicity meanwhile obtains because what is regarded as fitting by an audience at a given time may well not be available to an artist at the same time. The availability of roads forward is explained by (first) the ‘repleteness’ of painting: it possesses an indefinite number of properties; (second) by its ‘relexiveness,’ by ‘thematization’—that properties ‘that had not been previously pressed into the service of fit will swim into the awareness of the painter, and a function will be assigned to them’ (readers will sense an affinity with Danto’s ‘Artworld’).
Mysterious Ways
Authors: Phillips Jonathan D
Published: January 2025

What stories should we, and could we, tell about nature, about Earth surface systems and landscapes? According to this book, stories of continuous and ongoing transformative, recursive, emergent evolution, as well as tales of everything, including humans, connected to everything else, told with an emphasis on an integrated approach to landscape evolution—stories of complex interactions and coevolution and of historical and geographical and scale contingency. Our narratives will include supra-organic notions and system-level evolution; they will incorporate multiple possibilities and pathways and efficiency selection. We will tell stories of adaptation and creativity. The settings will be perfect, uniquely determined by combinations of laws, place, and history. We will tell of mysterious ways, which turn out to be not so mysterious after all.
Perfection
Authors: Phillips Jonathan D
Published: January 2025

The perfect landscape formalism recognizes landscapes as outcomes of unique combinations of general laws, geographically specific place factors (environmental controls), and history. This draws on the “perfect storm” metaphor for a unique confluence of circumstances. Perfect landscapes have irreducible elements of geographical and historical contingency. Several approaches to analysis of perfect landscapes are outlined, and an argument is made for evolutionary creativity and production of novelties in landscape evolution. The latter is illustrated by a case study of development of karst sinkholes.
Trade and Development
Authors: Dijkstra Hylke , von Allwörden Laura , Schütte Leonard , Zaccaria Giuseppe
Published: January 2025

This chapter presents two case studies of the responses of institutional actors in international organizations (IOs) to existential challenges in the field of global trade and development. The chapter begins by analysing the Trump administration’s contestation of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Appellate Body, which became dysfunctional by December 2019. This first case study identifies the lack of an effective response by WTO institutional actors. These findings on the WTO contrast with the second case study presented in this chapter: The response of the World Bank institutional actors to the challenge posed by the China-led creation of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). This second case study illustrates the proactive and effective role played by the World Bank’s leadership in pushing an adaptive response. When taking both case studies together, this chapter provides an insight into the factors that may explain variation in IO institutional actors’ responses to existential challenges.
Repeatome landscapes and cytogenetics of hortensias provide a framework to trace Hydrangea evolution and domestication
Authors: Ishiguro Sara , Taniguchi Shota , Schmidt Nicola , Jost Matthias , Wanke Stefan , Heitkam Tony , Ohmido Nobuko
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Ornamental hortensias are bred from a reservoir of over 200 species in the genus Hydrangea s.l. (Hydrangeaceae), and are valued in gardens, households and landscapes across the globe. The phenotypic diversity of hortensia cultivars, hybrids and wild relatives is mirrored by their genomic variation, with differences in genome size, base chromosome numbers and ploidy level. We aim to understand the genomic and chromosomal basis of hortensia genome variation. Therefore, we analysed six hortensias with different origins and chromosomal setups for repeatome divergence, the genome fraction with the highest sequence turnover. This holds information from the hortensias’ evolutionary paths and can guide breeding initiatives.

Methods

We compiled a hortensia genotype panel representing members of the sections Macrophyllae, Hydrangea, Asperae and Heteromallae and reconstructed a plastome-based phylogenetic hypothesis as the evolutionary basis for all our analyses. We comprehensively characterized the repeatomes by whole-genome sequencing and comparative repeat clustering. Major tandem repeats were localized by multicolour FISH.

Key Results

The Hydrangea species show differing repeat profiles reflecting their separation into the two major Hydrangea clades: diploid Hydrangea species from Japan show a conserved repeat profile, distinguishing them from Japanese polyploids as well as Chinese and American hortensias. These results are in line with plastome-based phylogenies. The presence of specific repeats indicates that H. paniculata was not polyploidized directly from the common ancestor of Japanese Hydrangea species, but evolved from a distinct progenitor. Major satellite DNAs were detected over all H. macrophylla chromosomes.

Conclusions

Repeat composition among the Hydrangea species varies in congruence with their origins and phylogeny. Identified species-specific satDNAs may be used as cytogenetic markers to identify Hydrangea species and cultivars, and to infer parental species of old Hydrangea varieties. This repeatome and cytogenetics information helps to expand the genetic toolbox for tracing hortensia evolution and guiding future hortensia breeding.
Predicting transcriptional changes induced by molecules with MiTCP
Authors: Yang Kaiyuan , Cheng Jiabei , Cao Shenghao , Pan Xiaoyong , Shen Hong-Bin , Yuan Ye
Published: January 2025

Studying the changes in cellular transcriptional profiles induced by small molecules can significantly advance our understanding of cellular state alterations and response mechanisms under chemical perturbations, which plays a crucial role in drug discovery and screening processes. Considering that experimental measurements need substantial time and cost, we developed a deep learning-based method called Molecule-induced Transcriptional Change Predictor (MiTCP) to predict changes in transcriptional profiles (CTPs) of 978 landmark genes induced by molecules. MiTCP utilizes graph neural network-based approaches to simultaneously model molecular structure representation and gene co-expression relationships, and integrates them for CTP prediction. After training on the L1000 dataset, MiTCP achieves an average Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) of 0.482 on the test set and an average PCC of 0.801 for predicting the top 50 differentially expressed genes, which outperforms other existing methods. Furthermore, we used MiTCP to predict CTPs of three cancer drugs, palbociclib, irinotecan and goserelin, and performed gene enrichment analysis on the top differentially expressed genes and found that the enriched pathways and Gene Ontology terms are highly relevant to the corresponding diseases, which reveals the potential of MiTCP in drug development.
BHSeP10 Avoiding rectus abdominis muscle harm on fashioning a durable stoma
Authors: Sams Emily , Jayamanne Harsha , Carter Adam , Stephenson Brian
Published: January 2025

Background

Stomas are traditionally constructed through the belly of the rectus abdominis muscle (RAM) but are frequently complicated by parastomal herniation (PSH). Retro-rectus mesh prophylaxis of PSH has not proved useful in their prevention.

Methods

A novel trephine, the lateral rectus abdominis positioned stoma (LRAPS), minimising damage to the musculature of the anterior abdominal wall, has been used in the construction of end colostomies and ileal conduits. Vertical incisions in the aponeurosis are avoided, the RAM retracted medially and the trephine placed above the ‘arcuate line’ of Douglas at the level of the umbilicus. We present a retrospective review of our experience with clinical and radiological follow-up.

Results

123 patients underwent LRAPS end colostomy over 8 years; 17 dying of malignancy within the first year. The cumulative rate of PSH in these patients at 1 and 2 years was 6% (6/106) and 10% (8/81) respectively.

68 patients underwent LRAPS ileal conduit diversion after radical cystectomy; 12 (17%) dying within 12 months. At 1 year follow-up there was no clinical or radiological evidence of PSH in the remaining 56 patients and no PSH in 24 patients on CT surveillance at 2 years.

Conclusion

In contrast to a traditional trephine through the belly of the RAM, this approach is associated with low rates of early PSH. A randomised trial is in progress.
BHSeP17 Long term effects of systemic hypertensive patients needing emergency hernia repair surgeries in BHRUT; and its correlation to their recurrence. The 1 of 4 theory
Authors: Suresh Janani , Roy Adeline , Butnari Valentin
Published: January 2025

Aim

To assess the long term effects of emergency hernia repair in hypertensive patients in comparison to those with hypertension needing elective repair. To analyse common type of surgeries adopted for these patients in King George and Queens Hospital.

Method

200 patients were selected between the year 2022 to 2023 who needed groin hernia repair. Amongst these, 51 patients had co morbidities that included hypertension. A log on information relating to gender, elective vs emergency and type of surgery was recorded.

Exclusion criteria: People requiring ventral hernias were excluded.

Results

In total, 155 patients were selected who needed groin hernia repair, amongst them 25% of the patients suffered with Hypertension and required treatment. Amongst these patients, a total of 11.6% patients needed emergency hernia repair and nearly 88.2% patients had elective surgical repair. Amongst these patients a total of 5.8% patients suffered from minor complications such as wound site infection. Only a small margin of 0.19% of patients suffered from recurrence. The incidence of recurrence occurred in elective hernia repair.

Conclusion

It has therefore been understood that out of total number of patients needing hernia repair, 1/4th consists of people with hypertension, and 1/4 of these people with hypertension may end up needing emergency surgery. A routine and thorough history of all patients needing medical management of Hypertension must therefore be carried out in order to avoid serious complications needing emergency procedures.
BHSeP42 Abdominal wall disasters following cosmetic surgery overseas
Authors: Barcelona Melden Darrell , Almoshantaf Mohammad Badr , Das Shruti , Bananis Kyriakos , Drymousis Panagiotis , Abdalla Sala
Published: January 2025

Aims

Health tourism for cosmetic surgeries such as abdominoplasty and liposuction are increasing at alarming frequency. The complications from such surgeries can be catastrophic. We present two cases of abdominoplasties performed overseas that resulted in life-changing post-operative complications that were managed in the UK.

Methods

Patient A: 48-year-old female developed infected axillary wounds, abdominal wound dehiscence, purulent vaginal discharge, and neo-umbilical necrosis following bilateral arm lift and abdominoplasty with concomitant trans-abdominal repair of vaginal prolapse.

Patient B: 41-year-old female developed surgical site infections with rare microorganisms following abdominoplasty which required multiple investigations and surgeries to manage her infections.

Results

Patient A: underwent abdominal wall exploration with drainage of collections, resection of necrotic neo-umbilicus and axillary wounds debridement. Primary wound closure with drains and PICO dressing was done. Analysis of wound swab revealed E. coli.

Patient B: underwent multiple procedures including debridement & drainage of abscesses with application of VAC dressing. Analysis of wound swab revealed Mycobacterium abscessus.

Conclusion

Cosmetic procedures overseas without appropriate safeguards or patient pre-optimization can result in life threatening complications and extensive deformities. Patients are sometimes not issued with appropriate follow-up care which can adversely affect their outcomes. Furthermore, the management of such complex cases is a drain on NHS resources.

Key statement

Health tourism poses grave risks. Surgery performed overseas without proper perioperative care can be harmful for patients and adds burden to our overstretched NHS.
BHSeP44 Extraperitoneal approach to Abdominal Wall Reconstruction (AWR): the ‘closed’ posterior component separation
Authors: Rajaretnam Niroshini , Kalaiselvan Ramya , Samad Ajai , Benson Alex , Scott Michael
Published: January 2025

The foundation of AWR is posterior component separation by Rives-Stoppa (RS) retro-rectus sublay mesh repair, and transversus abdominis release (TAR). Traditional teaching dictates an initial laparotomy with full adhesiolysis to enable fascial closure and an intraperitoneal approach to component separation.

We describe a novel extraperitoneal AWR approach, performing posterior component separation and sublay mesh repair with the peritoneum remaining closed. This maintains an intact visceral sac for faster dissection, reduced bowel handling, and facilitates take-down of the hernial orifice. We present our 3-year follow-up series of extraperitoneal ‘closed’ AWR.

Method

Retrospective case-note analysis of consecutive patients (n = 231) undergoing AWR 2018-2021 by a single plastic and general surgeon consultant team, with 3-year follow-up period.

Results

Extraperitoneal component separation was performed in all 231 patients as either RS (n = 186, 80.5%) or TAR (n = 45, 19.5%). Radical skin excision provided surgical access in 225 patients (97.4%), mean excision weight 1297 g (85–18000 g), mean BMI 30.9 (16.9–55.4). Direct fascial closure achieved in 97% (bridged repair n = 7, 3%). Hernia recurrence 1.7% (n = 4) at 3 years. Intraperitoneal procedures (bowel resection/anastomosis) performed in 2 patients (1.5%). Postoperative ileus 0%. Mean inpatient stay 4.6 days (SD 2.5). Post-operative complications; surgical site occurrence (SSO) (n = 26, 11.3%); respiratory (n = 21, 9.1%): VTE (n = 4, 1.7%): seroma (n = 16, 6.9%). Subsequent small bowel obstruction/laparotomy (n = 1, 0.4%).

Conclusion

The extraperitoneal approach to AWR is a safe, effective and reproducible technique, minimising postoperative ileus and bowel injury risk, promotes shorter duration of surgery and early postoperative discharge. This provides excellent outcomes and low hernia recurrence rate.
Patriotism and Resistance through Translation: Aeschylus’s Persae and Ancient Greek Past in Wartime China
Authors: Yue Mengzhen
Published: January 2025

This article analyses the first Chinese translation of Aeschylus’s Persae by Luo Niansheng, initially published in 1936, a pivotal year in China’s modern history. The politically charged 1930s propelled Luo to frame the play primarily as a patriotic text, intended to inspire his Chinese readers during the ongoing war of resistance against Japan. His translations of Greek tragedy and adaptations of Greek history bridged the ancient Greek past with modern Chinese sociopolitical realities, reflecting his belief in the ‘shared’ experiences between ancient Greece and modern China. Through scholars like Hu Shi, Luo participated in a national translation scheme that used Greek history and culture to foster Chinese enlightenment, with institutional support and the rise of public media facilitating the dissemination of his translation. The article also explores Said’s concept of Orientalism, questioning whether Luo’s translation mirrors Orientalist perspectives or offers a distinctly Chinese viewpoint. It argues that Luo’s use of neologisms and his adaptation of key terms within the Chinese cultural framework highlight the complex interplay between his translation strategies and their impact on Chinese readers.
Hybrid Space revisited: from concept toward theory
Authors: de Souza e Silva Adriana , Campbell Scott W , Ling Rich
Published: January 2025

Hybrid Spaces emerge from the blending of physical and digital spaces produced by the mobility of people communicating via mobile technologies. This articulation of Hybrid Space has influenced scholars of communication, media, mobilities, and other fields, as evidenced by our analysis of literature. Over the last two decades, however, Hybrid Spaces have morphed and adapted to our changing sociotechnical landscape. This article updates the concept, identifying developments with its key dimensions of mobility, connectivity, and sociability, while analyzing how it has been taken up in literature. Our analysis indicates Hybrid Space has, thus far, exclusively been taken up for inductive scholarship. We propose an updated conceptual model of Hybrid Space that can inform ways in which the concept can help with both inductive and deductive theorizing, expanding its scope in promising new directions.
Marrying heiresses in the reign of Philippe Auguste: aristocratic marital strategy in the counties of Nevers, Auxerre and Tonnerre
Authors: Crouch Charlotte H
Published: January 2025

The twelfth and thirteenth centuries saw a number of aristocratic women inheriting important lands in France. Their marriages carried the highest political importance. King Philippe Auguste (1180–1223) is often credited as the first king to use these heiresses and their marriages to control the aristocracy and extend the Capetian realm, with the families exercising no agency. This article questions the extent of this control by focusing on one family, the comital family of Nevers, who experienced almost a century of female inheritance. Charters and letters show each member of the comital family reacting to local circumstances through its marital strategies. At a tumultuous time in the family’s history, it was able to manipulate the secular and ecclesiastical rules concerning marriage to navigate an intra-familial inheritance dispute. The family’s marital strategy reveals multiple layers of control: marriage played an essential role in the comital family’s strategies, with important roles for all members.
The Current and Future Burden of Long COVID in the United States (U.S.)
Authors: Bartsch Sarah M , Chin Kevin L , Strych Ulrich , John Danielle C , Shah Tej D , Bottazzi Maria Elena , O’Shea Kelly J , Robertson McKaylee , Weatherwax Colleen , Heneghan Jessie , Martinez Marie F , Ciciriello Allan , Kulkarni Sarah , Velmurugan Kavya , Dibbs Alexis , Scannell Sheryl A , Shen Yanhan , Nash Denis , Hotez Peter J , Lee Bruce Y
Published: January 2025

Background

Long COVID, which affects an estimated 44.69-48.04 million people in the U.S., is an ongoing public health concern that will continue to grow as SARS-CoV-2 continues to spread.

Methods

We developed a computational simulation model representing the clinical course, the health effects, and the associated costs of a person with Long COVID.

Results

Simulations show that the average total cost of a Long COVID case can range from $5,084-$11,646 (assuming symptoms only last 1 year) with 92.5%-95.2% of these costs being productivity losses. Therefore, the current number of Long COVID cases could end up costing society at least $2.01-$6.56 billion, employers at least $1.99-$6.49 billion in productivity losses, and third-party payers $21-68.5 million annually (6%-20% probability of developing Long COVID). These cases would accrue 35,808-121,259 QALYs lost and 13,484-45,468 DALYs. Moreover, each year, there may be an additional $698.5 million in total costs, 14,685 QALYs lost, and 5,628 DALYs, if the incidence of COVID is 100 per 10,000 persons (similar to that seen in 2023). Every 10-point increase in COVID incidence results in an additional $365 million in total costs, 5,070 QALYs lost, and 1,900 DALYs each year.

Conclusion

The current health and economic burden of Long COVID may already exceed that of a number of other chronic disease and will continue to grow each year as there are more and more COVID-19 cases. This could be a significant drain on businesses, third party payers, the healthcare system, and all of society.
The Aesthetic Value of Diverse Beliefs
Authors: Atkinson Chris
Published: January 2025

This article has two aims. The first is to open up a line of inquiry into whether epistemic and aesthetic values interact, at the most general level. Does an overall increase in epistemic or aesthetic value in the world have an effect on the alternative value? The second, and more specific, aim is to argue that yes, it does. In particular, I argue that an increase in epistemic value would result in a decrease in aesthetic value, across two important dimensions. First, I argue that, if beliefs universally aligned with a commonly accepted epistemic principle—namely, doxastic correctness—then there would be less aesthetic diversity in the world. And second, I argue that, if beliefs universally aligned with doxastic correctness, then there would also be less overall aesthetic value in the world, at least in some important respects.
O03 Are proposed definitions of low-risk Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) clinically useful?
Authors: Berry Karla , Dewar Simon , Dolby Heather W , Cooper George , Sutherland Rebecca K , Russell Clark D
Published: January 2025

Background

Identifying ‘low-risk’ patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia (SAB) could enable earlier switches to oral antibiotics and reduce the need for intensive investigation in selected patients. Several definitions have been proposed but have not been compared with each other.

Objectives

To determine the agreement between current definitions of ‘low-risk’ SAB.

Methods

We studied 600 patients included in an ongoing retrospective cohort study of consecutive adults with SAB from three hospitals in South East Scotland, identified between 20/12/2019 and 23/4/2023. We investigated four definitions of ‘low-risk’ SAB: (1) patients meeting eligibility criteria for the SABATO early oral switch trial; (2) patients meeting a definition of low-risk SAB recently proposed by Hendriks et al. (Clin Infect Dis 2024; 79: 43–51); (3) patients meeting the eligibility criteria for IV to oral switch on day 7 in the SNAP trial; and (4) patients not meeting the IDSA definition of complicated SAB. We determined which patients met these definitions, quantified the overlap, determined the agreement between definitions using Cohen’s kappa statistic (k), and compared patient characteristics and outcomes between the groups.

Results

A total of 98/600 (16.3%) patients met the SABATO definition, 113/600 (18.8%) met the Hendriks et al. definition, 144 (24.0%) met the SNAP early oral switch criteria, and 263/600 (43.8%) did not meet the IDSA criteria for complicated SAB. We observed limited overlap between these groups. Only 29 patients met all four definitions. Agreement between definitions was fair to moderate (k=0.21 to 0.46). Patients meeting these definitions shared some characteristics, including age (median 64–67 years), a predominance of nosocomial acquisition and IV source of bacteraemia, and reduced frequency of an unknown source of bacteraemia. In-hospital attributable mortality differed between groups: 4.1% in those meeting the SABATO definition, 10.6% in those meeting the Hendriks et al definition, 3.5% in those meeting criteria for SNAP early oral switch, and 17.1% in those not meeting the IDSA definition for complicated SAB (compared with 24.0% in patients not meeting any definition). Rates of persistent or recurrent bacteraemia also varied: 3.1% for SABATO, 0% for Hendriks et al, 2.8% for SNAP early oral switch, and 0.8% for IDSA non-complicated SAB (compared with 6.4% for patients not meeting any definition).

Conclusions

Given these discrepancies in overlap, agreement, and outcomes, our findings highlight the ongoing need for a standardized definition of ‘low-risk’ SAB to consistently identify these patients in clinical practice and for clinical trials.
P01 Cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) of Air Filtration to prevent Respiratory Infections (including COVID-19) in care homes: the AFRI-c trial
Authors: Hay Alastair , Brierley Rachel , Turner Nick , Thorn Joanna , Rees Sophie , Taylor Jodi , Welsh Tomas , Henderson Emily , Sprackman Jane , Morgan Gemma , Riddington Craig , Campbell-Smith Laurel , Brown Claire , Ready Derren , Mazza Graziella , Gidman Eleanor , Kipping Ruth
Published: January 2025

Background

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are common in people in care homes. Transmission can be through direct contact or airborne particles. Portable high-efficiency-particulate-air (HEPA) filtration units remove airborne microbial particles, but it is unclear if this is sufficient to reduce infections.

Objectives

To investigate the effectiveness of portable HEPA filtration units to reduce RTIs in care home residents.

Methods

Ninety residential care homes were randomized to HEPA filtration units in communal rooms and private bedrooms or usual care. Primary outcome: number of RTIs recorded by care home staff. Secondary outcomes: other infections; falls/near falls; laboratory confirmed infections; hospitalizations; and staff sickness.

Results

A total of 43 care homes were randomized to intervention, 47 to usual care. Overall, 43% and 45% of intervention and control group care homes provided nursing care; 86% and 87% dementia care; and median (IQR) number of communal rooms were 4 (3–6) and 4 (3–5). A total of 1158 residents were consented, of whom 34 (3%) moved away; 172 (15%) died; and 5 stopped participating. Primary outcome data is 98% complete with 195 463 ‘resident days’ symptom data collected. Comparing intervention and control group residents: median (IQR) age was 87 (81–92) and 88 (82–92) years; 70% and 71% were female; 35% and 43% were receiving nursing care; 58% and 57% had dementia; frailty scores were 6 (4–7) and 6 (5–7); 95% and 94% received influenza vaccines; and 97% and 96% received COVID vaccines.

Conclusions

Full results will be available for conference. This global first RCT will provide invaluable evidence regarding the role of portable HEPA filtration to reduce RTIs in the care home setting.
Lipin-1 restrains macrophage lipid synthesis to promote inflammation resolution
Authors: Bamgbose Temitayo T , Schilke Robert M , Igiehon Oluwakemi O , Nkadi Ebubechukwu H , Binwal Monika , Custis David , Bharrhan Sushma , Schwarz Benjamin , Bohrnsen Eric , Bosio Catharine M , Scott Rona S , Yurdagul Jr. Arif , Finck Brian N , Woolard Matthew D
Published: January 2025

Macrophages are critical to maintaining and restoring tissue homeostasis during inflammation. The lipid metabolic state of macrophages influences their function and polarization, which is crucial to the resolution of inflammation. The contribution of lipid synthesis to proinflammatory macrophage responses is well understood. However, how lipid synthesis regulates proresolving macrophage responses needs to be better understood. Lipin-1 is a phosphatidic acid phosphatase with a transcriptional coregulatory activity that regulates lipid metabolism. We previously demonstrated that lipin-1 supports proresolving macrophage responses, and here, myeloid-associated lipin-1 is required for inflammation resolution, yet how lipin-1–regulated cellular mechanisms promote macrophage proresolution responses is unknown. We demonstrated that the loss of lipin-1 in macrophages led to increased free fatty acid, neutral lipid, and ceramide content and increased phosphorylation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase. The inhibition of the first step of lipid synthesis, the transport of citrate from the mitochondria, reduced lipid content and restored efferocytosis and inflammation resolution in lipin-1mKO mice and macrophages. Our findings suggest macrophage-associated lipin-1 restrains lipid synthesis, promoting proresolving macrophage function in response to proresolving stimuli.
The queer vanguard: how television streaming platforms promoted intersectional LGBTQ+ content to establish their brands
Authors: Sender Katherine
Published: January 2025

The “queer vanguard” theorizes how Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and other television streaming platforms articulated intersectional lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and nonbinary (LGBTQ+) representations with attributes of narrative complexity, hipness, prestige, and authenticity in pursuit of subscribers. Streamers reworked branding strategies innovated in the 1980s and 1990s by cable and broadcast channels that produced Black-cast shows, and by cable channels in the early twenty-first century that centered gay and lesbian characters. Using an innovative approach that explores media practice as research method, I argue that streamers advanced the queer vanguard to attract subscribers to their original content, develop distinctive libraries, sustain subscribers’ attention, and expand their markets. As the streaming wars have ensued, digital distributors are returning to traditional television practices of appealing to mass audiences with ad-supported content that threatens the future of the complex, intersectional LGBTQ+ narratives that have been central to “Peak TV.”