bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing Z boson rare decays $$Z\rightarrow H_1 \gamma , A_1 \gamma $$ with $$(g-2)_\mu ,$$ $$ M_W,$$ and $$BR(h_{\textrm{SM}}\rightarrow Z\gamma )$$ in the NMSSM
Authors: Bisal Subhadip , Das Debottam
Published: June 2024

We study the rare decay process of Z boson into photon, accompanied by a CP-even or CP-odd scalar. We present the analytical delineation of the processes through the model-independent parametrizations of the new physics couplings and, finally, consider the Next-to-Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model to mark out the parameter space where the branching fraction can have the maximum value. As a part of the necessary phenomenological and experimental cross-checks, we aim to fit the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon and W boson mass anomaly through the supersymmetric contributions. We also find that the decays $$Z\rightarrow H_1 \gamma , A_1 \gamma $$

Z
→

H
1

γ
,

A
1

γ

can serve as an excellent complementary test to $$BR(h_{\textrm{SM}}\rightarrow Z\gamma ).$$

B
R
(

h
SM

→
Z
γ
)
.

In fact, to facilitate future searches, we unveil a few benchmark points that additionally satisfy the deviation of $$BR(h_{\textrm{SM}}\rightarrow Z\gamma )$$

B
R
(

h
SM

→
Z
γ
)

from the SM value based on the recent measurements of ATLAS and CMS. Future proposals such as ILC, CEPC, and FCC-ee are anticipated to operate for multiple years, focusing on center-of-mass energy near the Z pole. Consequently, these projects will be capable of conducting experiments at the Giga-Z$$(10^{9}$$

(

10
9

of Z bosons) and Tera-Z$$(10^{12}$$

(

10
12

of Z bosons) phases, which may probe the aforesaid rare decay processes, thus the model as well. These unconventional yet complementary searches offer different routes to explore the supersymmetric models with extended Higgs sectors like NMSSM.
Computer Simulation for Determination of Critical Buckling Temperatures of Sandwich Microplates with Cellular Core and CNT-RC Piezoelectric Patches via MSGT
Authors: Qin Xiang , Kahla Nabil Ben , Ghazouani Nejib
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a computational simulation which leads to obtaining the critical buckling temperatures of a sandwich microplate which is modeled based on the modified strain gradient theory. This theory includes three material length scale parameters. The core of the microstructure is made from cellular materials which is treated with piezoelectric carbon nanotubes-reinforced composite patches. An advanced trigonometric hyperbolic shear deformation theory, eliminating the need for shear correction factors, is employed to analyze the microstructure. Thickness-dependent variations in structural characteristics are observed based on predefined functions. The equilibrium equations are derived using the virtual displacement principle. Fourier series functions provide an analytical way of solving these equations. The findings are verified by comparison with earlier research that was published and used fewer complex combinations. The study looks at how several important factors affect the structure’s reaction to thermal buckling.
Application of Perturbation Method to Analytical H2 Optimization for a Damped Structure with Inerter-Based Control
Authors: Wang Jue , Zhang Ying , Geng Zihao , Looi Daniel TW
Published: June 2024

Inherent damping exists in all real engineering systems and it affects the dynamic behavior of the structures in vibration reduction. However, it is generally neglected in existing analytical H2 optimization for inerter-based vibration control. Hence, an analytical H2 optimization of a tuned inerter damper (TID) based on the perturbation method is presented to control the vibration of a damped structure subjected to stochastic acceleration ground excitations. Since relative displacement and velocity are crucial to structural damage and absolute acceleration is related to vibration comfort, three sets of closed-form solutions for the optimal stiffness ratio and damping ratio are derived to suppress the corresponding responses. The expressions of these optimal parameters are functions of the inherent damping and inerter-mass ratio. The accuracy of these analytical solutions is demonstrated by comparison with the results provided by the numerical optimization procedure. The relevant parameters affecting the vibration control performance and the robustness of the TID in a damped structure are analyzed in frequency domain. Finally, time–history response and energy dissipation of TID are also explored by numerical examples under real and artificial seismic waves. The results highlight that more than 10% reduction ratio of the mean square value can be further achieved for a structure with a low inherent damping ratio ([Formula: see text]) if the present multi-order perturbation solutions are used for optimization, instead of the existing method which neglects the inherent damping. This superiority of the present perturbation method will become more prominent with the increase of the inherent damping ratio. Therefore, the present perturbation method has a great significance for designing a TID to achieve the best control performance.
Stress–Strength Reliability Estimation for Gamma Distributions in a Noisy System
Authors: Esfahani Samira Nasr , Mohammadpour Adel , Naghshineh A. Omid
Published: June 2024

When assessing the reliability of a system or the viability of a material, it is necessary to consider the stress conditions of the operating system. Let X be the strength of the system and Y be the stress of the system caused by the environment. In a stress–strength model, the system’s reliability is defined as [Formula: see text], and due to ignoring environmental shocks or human failure, it is usually overestimated. To underestimate reliability, we assume that when X goes to the environmental conditions, the system’s strength reduces to [Formula: see text], where Z is a random variable on [Formula: see text]. We propose a modified reliability model with [Formula: see text] for the gamma distribution. In this model, stress Y and the scale mixture of the strength of the gamma distribution, [Formula: see text], are modeled as independent random variables. The proposed model is compared with the traditional model through a simulation study. Additionally, the asymptotic distribution is used to construct an asymptotic confidence interval for [Formula: see text]. Finally, we use two real datasets to demonstrate the practical applicability of our proposed method.
In situ fabrication of Cu2O array electrode for efficient detection of acetaminophen
Authors: Wang Xiaoying , Liu Jiaqiang , Zuo Yuanxia , Fan Ying , Zhang Zhiheng , Zhang Chengyan , Zhang Fan , Wang Mingyan , Xu Ruibo
Published: June 2024

In this paper, [Formula: see text] nanosheet arrays were directly grown in an upright manner on the surface of copper foam (CF) through a simple solvent reaction, followed by the successful reduction of [Formula: see text] into [Formula: see text] using hydrazine hydrate vapor, resulting in a binder-free [Formula: see text] array electrode. The in situ growth technique guarantees robust bonding between [Formula: see text] and the conductive substrate, thereby enhancing electron transfer among various electrode components. Additionally, the vertically aligned array structures facilitate rapid penetration and transfer of the analyte, while also allowing for thorough exposure of the electroactive surfaces to the electrolyte. When utilized as an adhesive-free biosensor, the obtained [Formula: see text] array electrode exhibited sensitive catalytic oxidation activity toward acetaminophen (AP), providing a wide linear range of 2–200 [Formula: see text]M and a low detection limit of 0.6 [Formula: see text]M for AP detection. Furthermore, the developed [Formula: see text] array electrode was successfully utilized to detect AP in medicine samples. With its simple fabrication method, broad linear range, low detection limit, and excellent stability, this electrode holds significant promise for the detection of AP in pharmaceuticals.
Bioinspired Cellular Membrane Vesicles Derived from Bacterial and Erythrocyte Ghosts: Development and Applications as a Smart Drug Delivery System
Authors: Majid Abdul , Memon Nazakat Hussain , Arain Sadia Qamar , Channa Umedan , Ali Majida , Phull Abdul Rehman
Published: June 2024

This study emphasizes the importance and application of bioinspired cellular membrane vesicles as smart drug delivery carriers. The lessons can be learned from nature for the smart drug delivery system. Biological membranes are essential to provide stable and functional compartments, preserve cellular architecture, and promote selective signaling and transportation, which are mediated by embedded integral or peripheral proteins. Bioinspired mimicking of natural components in organisms has demonstrated their potential to serve as an innovative system for theranostic applications. However, mimicking the cell membrane in an artificial system is complex because of the multifarious biological structures. The primary advantage of these bioinspired delivery systems is the systematic biodistribution that nonnative delivery systems could not possess. This review will present biomimics resulting from self-assembling amphiphilic polymers. The promising artificial self-assemblies tagged with biomolecules by encapsulation, hybridization, or insertion can serve as means for the development of a smart drug delivery system. Moreover, in case the developed system is stimuli-responsive, the system allows for the triggered or on demand release of payload with in situ specific reaction. In conclusion, cellular membrane vesicles offer an important approach to efficient drug-targeted treatments at the molecular and cellular levels. Here, bioinspired cellular membrane vesicles are discussed along with their applications. Relevant examples of bioinspired membrane mimics are included for an overview of drug delivery candidates. The advantages of using biomimetic membranes and current limitations for future improvements are also included.
Review of NSAID Hypersensitivity Reactions Based on Clinical Phenotyping
Authors: Leong Cheong Si , Man Chan Choi , Kan Andy Ka Chun , Li Philip Hei
Published: June 2024

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for their analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, they are also associated with a broad spectrum of hypersensitivity reactions, ranging from mild cutaneous manifestations to severe systemic responses. The complex nature of these reactions and their underlying mechanisms pose challenges in diagnosis and management.

We review the clinical evidence to six distinct clinical phenotypes of NSAID hypersensitivity, including: NSAID-induced urticaria/angioedema or anaphylaxis (SNIUAA), NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease (NERD), NSAID-exacerbated cutaneous disease (NECD), NSAID-induced urticaria/angioedema (NIUA), food-dependent NSAID-induced hypersensitivity reactions (FDNIH), and selective NSAID-induced delayed reactions (SNIDR). This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of NSAID hypersensitivity reactions based on clinical phenotyping, which can aid in understanding and managing these adverse events.
Imagining Intelligent Machines
Authors: Mone Gregory
Published: June 2024

Daniela Rus on humanoids, liquid networks, and academia’s essential role in helping them come to pass.
First-Principles Study on the Optoelectronic and Mechanical Properties of Lead-Free Semiconductor Silicon Perovskites ASiBr3 (A = K, Rb, Cs)
Authors: Abdullah Danish , Gupta Dinesh C.
Published: June 2024

We deployed density functional theory to assess the structural, electronic, elastic, and optical properties of ASiBr3 (A = K, Rb, and Cs). KSiBr3, RbSiBr3, and CsSiBr3 band structure profiles suggest they are semiconductors with direct band gaps of 0.34, 0.36, and 0.39 eV, respectively. The material’s dynamic stability is evidenced by the formation energies acquired negative values (−2.35, −2.18, and −2.08 for K, Rb, and Cs respectively). Mechanical characteristics and elastic constants measured suggest the compound’s mechanical stability and ductile character, which was assessed by calculating the Poissons ratio (>0.25) and Pugh’s ratio (>1.75). The research also explores optical properties, including the dielectric function, refractive index, reflectivity, optical conductivity, absorption coefficient, and extinction coefficient for the optical spectrum. The findings highlight possible applications for these materials in the semiconductor industry and modern electronic gadgets. The optical properties assessment reveals that these materials have strong optical absorption and conductivity, making these compounds the best prospects for usage in solar cells. CsSiBr3’s lower band gap renders it the superior choice for light-emitting diode (LED) and solar cell applications. Our findings may provide a complete understanding for experimentalists to pursue additional research leveraging applications in LEDs, photodetectors, or solar cells.
Factors Associated with the Integration of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Nurses into Healthcare Organisations: A Systematic Review of Quantitative Studies
Authors: Joensuu R. , Suleiman K. , Koskenranta M. , Kuivila H. , Oikarainen A. , Juntunen J. , Goh Y. S. , Liaw S. Y. , Mikkonen K.
Published: June 2024

Background. Global nursing shortages have led to the recruitment of culturally and linguistically diverse nurses from various countries. However, nurses face integration challenges in their host countries. Objective. This systematic review aimed to find the most recent evidence of factors associated with integrational strategies and models to support the transition and adaptation of culturally and linguistically diverse nurses to the professional workforce in healthcare settings. Methods. This systematic review used the population, exposure, outcome framework to select studies according to JBI guidelines. Original peer‐reviewed quantitative studies published between 2000 and 2021 were identified. Two researchers independently screened the studies based on eligibility criteria using title, abstract, and full text. The JBI critical appraisal tool assessed the methodology’s quality for analytical cross‐sectional studies. Data were extracted, tabulated, and analysed narratively. PRISMA checklist was used in reporting. Data Sources. CINAHL (Ebsco), PubMed, Medic, ERIC (ProQuest), and Scopus. Results. The systematic review encompassed 19 articles and identified multiple factors associated with successful integration. These factors were classified into the following six categories: sociodemographic characteristics, discrimination, social support, organisational support, workplace environment, and acculturation. Conclusions. Comprehensive cultural competency training for healthcare staff, including managers, enhances cultural proficiency in work environments. Clear guidelines addressing bias and discrimination create a supportive environment where culturally and linguistically diverse nurses feel valued and respected, facilitating their adaptation and integration. Relevance to Clinical Practice. Patient care quality can be improved by ensuring sustainable culturally and linguistically diverse nurses’ integration into healthcare organisations. Cultural diversity is a unique opportunity to bring a diverse range and experience to clinical settings. The diversity can also help enhance the cultural competence of healthcare staff, allowing them to better understand and cater to the needs of culturally diverse patients. Patient or Public Contribution. Not required for study design.
A Comprehensive Review on the Creation, Description, and Utilization of Surfactants Containing Multiple Hydroxyl Groups
Authors: Das Rakhi , Mallik Nitesh , Adhikari Achyut , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: June 2024

The stereoselective synthesis of biobased nonionic sugar surfactants (polyhydroxy surfactants), which are thought to be safer, more affordable, plentiful, biodegradable, biocompatible, and possess mildness and performance in formulation, is becoming increasingly popular as people become more aware of the potential negative effects of conventional surfactants on the environment and human health. Reviewing the stereoselective synthesis of polyhydroxy surfactants is the objective of this article. Additionally, it emphasizes the synthesis and application of sugar‐based surfactants in everyday life, as well as their description and the influence of outside factors. A thorough assessment of the literature on biobased polyhydroxy surfactants including alkyl polyglycosides, sorbitol esters, sucrose esters, fatty acid glucamides, and methyl glucosides was studied for methodology. The characterization of the surfactants shows an exponential increase in electrical conductivity when there is an increase in the water volume fraction. The surface tension also showed a linear relationship with surfactant concentration, such that as the concentration increases, the surface tension of the solution decreases. The effect of external parameters on polyhydroxy surfactants was also studied, which shows that increasing temperature favors micellization initiation at a lower concentration. Likewise, the micellar molecular weight and the hydration per unit mass of the surfactants decrease with an increase in the pH value. Evidence to further support these biobased surfactants as substitutes for their petrochemical counterparts is advantageous as worldwide legislation and user requirements for sustainability and safety expand.
CCR7 and CD48 as Predicted Targets in Acute Rejection Related to M1 Macrophage after Pediatric Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Zhang Jie , Pei Jun , Yu Chengjun , Luo Jin , Hong Yifan , Hua Yi , Wei Guanghui
Published: June 2024

Background. Kidney transplantation (KT) is the best treatment for end‐stage renal disease. Although long and short‐term survival rates for the graft have improved significantly with the development of immunosuppressants, acute rejection (AR) remains a major risk factor attacking the graft and patients. The innate immune response plays an important role in rejection. Therefore, our objective is to determine the biomarkers of congenital immunity associated with AR after KT and provide support for future research. Materials and Methods. A differential expression genes (DEGs) analysis was performed based on the dataset GSE174020 from the NCBI gene Expression Synthesis Database (GEO) and then combined with the GSE5099 M1 macrophage‐related gene identified in the Molecular Signatures Database. We then identified genes in DEGs associated with M1 macrophages defined as DEM1Gs and performed gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Cibersort was used to analyze the immune cell infiltration during AR. At the same time, we used the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and Cytoscape software to determine the key genes. Dataset, GSE14328 derived from pediatric patients, GSE138043 and GSE9493 derived from adult patients, were used to verify Hub genes. Additional verification was the rat KT model, which was used to perform HE staining, immunohistochemical staining, and Western Blot. Hub genes were searched in the HPA database to confirm their expression. Finally, we construct the interaction network of transcription factor (TF)‐Hub genes and miRNA‐Hub genes. Results. Compared to the normal group, 366 genes were upregulated, and 423 genes were downregulated in the AR group. Then, 106 genes related to M1 macrophages were found among these genes. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that these genes are mainly involved in cytokine binding, antigen binding, NK cell‐mediated cytotoxicity, activation of immune receptors and immune response, and activation of the inflammatory NF‐κB signaling pathway. Two Hub genes, namely CCR7 and CD48, were identified by PPI and Cytoscape analysis. They have been verified in external validation sets, originated from both pediatric patients and adult patients, and animal experiments. In the HPA database, CCR7 and CD48 are mainly expressed in T cells, B cells, macrophages, and tissues where these immune cells are distributed. In addition to immunoinfiltration, CD4+T, CD8+T, NK cells, NKT cells, and monocytes increased significantly in the AR group, which was highly consistent with the results of Hub gene screening. Finally, we predicted that 19 TFs and 32 miRNAs might interact with the Hub gene. Conclusions. Through a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis, our findings may provide predictive and therapeutic targets for AR after KT.
Design and Finite Element Analysis of an Automatic Electromechanical Overload Detecting System for Trucks
Authors: Yin Edward , Vandijk David , Yeboah Patrick
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a simple design, low‐cost, electromechanical overloading system, which is easy to use and install and suitable for all types of truck chassis and suspension. This design can detect an overload, signal the driver, and also interrupt ignition when the truck is overloaded. The system was modelled using CAD software, and FEA was performed on the spring component to verify analytical solutions. Components of the overload detection system include a load carrying springs, an electrical relay, ignition system, an LED for signaling overload, and an electrical circuit. Results showed that, for a 3‐axle trucks, the allowable pay load was 15.125 tonnes, and each spring in the design supports a minimum weight of 74.183 kN. A spring index of 4.009 was achieved in line with safe design conforming to 4 ≤ C ≤ 12 with a spring rate of 1464305.5 N/m. The spring displacement needed to actuate the overloading system was 51 mm. FEA which was performed validated analytical solutions in that the induced von Mises stress which was 69.92 MPa was below the yield strength of the material (200 MPa) and the factor of safety obtained was 1.24 signifying safe design. The designed electromechanical system is capable of detecting an overloadand also interrupting the truck ignition. Installation can be installed on new trucks or by retrofitting onto old trucks.
Table S1 from Cancer-related Fatigue and the Additive Effect of Treatment in the Context of Lymphoma: An Analysis of the Lymphoma Coalition's 2022 Global Patient Survey
Authors: Kalloger Steve E. , Watson Amanda , Sajkowski Shawn , Warwick Lorna
Published: June 2024

Full factorial of symptom and side-effect frequencies across subtypes.
Influence of Low-Level Shear Orientation and Magnitude on the Evolution and Rotation of Idealized Squall Lines. Part I: Storm Morphology and Bulk Updraft/Mesovortex Attributes
Authors: Brown Matthew C. , Marion Geoffrey R. , Coniglio Michael C.
Published: June 2024

Observational and modeling efforts have explored the formation and maintenance of mesovortices, which contribute to severe hazards in quasi-linear convective systems (QLCSs). There exists an important interplay between environmental shear and cold-pool-induced circulations which, when balanced, allow for upright QLCS updrafts with maximized lift along storm outflow boundaries. Numerical simulations have primarily tested the sensitivity of squall lines to zonally varying low-level (LL) shear profiles (i.e., purely line-normal, assuming a north–south-oriented system), but observed near-storm environments of mesovortex-producing QLCSs exhibit substantial LL hodograph curvature (i.e., line-parallel shear). Therefore, previous QLCS simulations may fail to capture the full impacts of LL shear variability on mesovortex characteristics. To this end, this study employs an ensemble of idealized QLCS simulations with systematic variations in the orientation and magnitude of the ambient LL shear vector, all while holding 0–3-km line-normal shear constant. This allows for a nuanced examination of how line-parallel shear modulates system structure, as well as mesovortex strength, size, and longevity. Results indicate that hodographs with LL curvature support squall lines with prominent bowing segments and wider, more intense rotating updrafts. Shear orientation also impacts mesovortex characteristics, with curved hodographs favoring cyclonic vortices that are stronger, wider, deeper, and longer-lived than those produced with straight-line wind profiles. These results provide a more complete physical understanding of how LL shear variability influences the generation of rotation in squall lines.

Significance Statement

Research related to linear storms has largely focused on vertical changes in winds (i.e., shear) oriented perpendicular to squall lines given its ability to balance storm cold pools and keep updrafts upright, thus promoting long-lived storms that presumably can go on to produce rotation. However, squall lines that produce a great deal of rotation often have a component of low-level shear oriented parallel to storms. This study gauges the sensitivity of simulated squall lines to changes in the direction and strength of shear close to the surface. We find that shear oriented parallel to linear storms creates stronger and larger updrafts that in turn support the development of intense and persistent rotation with characteristics supportive of tornadoes. These insights have impacts on both our physical understanding and prediction of the rotation and associated hazards of linear storms.
Strategy Corporate Social Responsibility and Investment Efficiency: The Role of Substitute and Complement
Authors: Li Jianing , Qin Xinran , Lin Yu-En
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and investment efficiency from a strategic perspective. Taking into account the competitive strategy between firms, we proposed an adjusted competitive strategy measure and fitted CSR with a competitive strategy such as strategic CSR and examined the impact of competitive strategy on CSR and the sensitivity of investment to free cash flow. The results show that firms engage in CSR strategically. The stronger the strategic substitutes in which a firm competes, the more likely it is to engage in CSR activities. The weaker the strategic substitutes and complements in which a firm competes, the better its CSR performance. However, strategic CSR and corporate strategy do not have a synergistic effect in mitigating overinvestment. The results suggest that strategic CSR performance eliminates the sensitivity of investment to free cash flow. CSR can be a powerful tool to link corporate strategy and social sustainability, which has the potential to create a win-win situation for both the firm and society.
Context-Tailored or User-Tailored: Which Approach Is Better for Violent Extremism Prevention Programs?
Authors: Lobato Roberto M. , Sainz Mario , García-Coll Josep , Moyano Manuel
Published: June 2024

It is taken-for-granted that the one-size-fits-all approach does not work for extremism prevention programs. However, to what extent it is necessary to adapt these programs to the context or the user remains an unanswered question. This study attempts to provide evidence on which type of customization has a greater impact. Using data from the evaluation of the Fénix Andalucía prevention program, we analyzed if a reduction in the significance quest will reduce violent narratives by ameliorating deviant networks using multilevel structural equation modeling. The results showed that the average impact in the educational centers was not significant, while the individual experience of the participants was. It is concluded that prevention programs would benefit from user-tailored programs that enhance individual experiences.
Reflections on an anniversary
Authors: Skocpol Theda
Published: June 2024

My first book, in many ways a lonely project at the time, is now part of a steadily growing body of comparative-historical scholarship in the social sciences. Studying socio-political changes of all kinds – including today’s democratic backsliding in the United States and beyond – is best done, as States and Social Revolutions helped to demonstrate, by probing and juxtaposing fully contextualised cases. It still makes sense for scholars to (directly or implicitly) compare historical trajectories, tease out the intersections of social inequalities and struggles over state power, and address the evolving global contexts as in local, regional, or national episodes play out. This way of studying political conflict and change is what I believe endures from States and Social Revolutions, as new generations of scholars go far beyond the arguments of that book born decades ago.
Retrospective investigation of improvements in functional vision for adolescent students with cerebral vision impairments in a specialist residential school and college setting
Authors: Waddington Jonathan , Ellis Richard
Published: June 2024

Cerebral and/or cortical vision impairment (CVI) is the leading cause of childhood vision impairment in the Global North. Previous studies have demonstrated that the functional vision of children with CVI can develop over time, but evidence for the effectiveness of interventions is still in its infancy. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed student records from a specialist residential school and college in the United Kingdom that had implemented an evidence-based approach to assessment and intervention for adolescent students with CVI called the CVI Range. The outcome of CVI Range assessments were recorded annually over a 5-year period, and potential predictor variables such as measures of visual acuity and presence of conditions such as cerebral palsy and seizure disorders were recorded as part of standard practice within the service. A total of 73 annual assessments were analysed from a total of 24 students between the ages of 9 and 25 years old. We used a mixed model for repeated measures approach to reveal a significant fixed effect of time on functional vision that equated to a linear increase of 0.78, 95% CI [0.60, 0.97] in CVI Range Rating 2 for each year of participation on the programme. The mixed effects models also revealed significant interindividual differences in functional vision, which could be partly explained by a significant negative effect of acuity and by a joint positive effect of nystagmus and time, but not by age. These findings demonstrated that significant improvements in functional vision are still possible for students with CVI long after the accepted sensitive period of neuroplasticity in the visual cortex. Further studies incorporating research designs appropriate for evaluating complex interventions are required to determine which individual and contextual characteristics are valid and reliable predictors of improvements in functional vision for young people with CVI.
Start-ups and entrepreneurial ecosystems in the circular economy: A multi-level approach for safe and just planetary boundaries
Authors: Ferreira João J , C Fernandes Ana Joana , Ramírez-Pasillas Marcela
Published: June 2024

A circular economy (CE) addresses the shift in economic systems from an unsustainable linear approach to a sustainable circular approach through start-ups and entrepreneurial ecosystems (EE). A single level of focus on CE research limits an understanding of the mechanisms fostering a transition towards CE. We conduct a systematic review of the macro–meso–micro interconnections between start-ups and EE in CE using bibliometric and content analyses to scope the literature without time boundaries. This exercise led to 90 articles from the Web of Science and Scopus databases. We contribute to literature on entrepreneurship and CE by building an integrative multi-level framework linked to the just and safe planetary boundaries by bridging macro-level explanations (public policies, regulations and infrastructure) and the meso-level (circular supply chains and circular ecosystems) and micro-level (circular start-ups and circular business models). The framework highlights social and environmental sustainability challenges, and just and safe close-loop production patterns.
Business model innovation in circular start-ups: Overcoming barriers in the circular plastics economy
Authors: Lit Fernando C , Huijben Josephina CCM , Cloodt Myriam MAH , Paredis Erik
Published: June 2024

Circular start-ups (CSUs) are crucial for implementing a circular economy; yet, little research has been undertaken on the specific barriers they face. Through a case study of CSUs in the Dutch plastics industry, we identify several key barriers encompassing technology dependence, poor credibility, constrained resources, collaboration challenges, lack of knowledge and inadequate institutional support. Additionally, we highlight four success factors (SFs) that enable CSUs to compete in circular plastics: circular value proposition design, market sensitivity, networking prowess and circular ambidexterity. Our study shows that CSUs can enact these SFs as strategies-in-use to overcome barriers. Yet still, CSUs in plastics continue focusing on recycling-centric business models, limiting their potential to drive the transition more radically along the waste hierarchy. This calls for support from various entities such as entrepreneurial ecosystems as well as a multi-stakeholder perspective that considers their business models as interdependent with other actors in the plastics value chain.
CEO characteristics and IR4.0 adoption
Authors: Lok Char-Lee , Hooy Chee-Wooi , Chuah Shu-Fen
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the impacts of CEO personal characteristics on the IR4.0 adoption of 954 publicly listed companies in Bursa Malaysia in 2019. Logistic regression analysis is employed to assess the determinants of the IR4.0 adoption. This study contributes to the literature related to the risk preference of CEOs and proxy of IR4.0 adoption from several dimensions, including the profile of key personnel, technology suppliers, Chief Information Officer and Technology Committee. This study found that elder CEOs are unlikely to invest in IR4.0 technologies due to their risk-averse behaviours. Moreover, CEOs are unlikely to pursue more risk-taking activities if they also hold board chairs. The agency theory explains that weak monitoring of the board reduces the performance expectation of CEOs, and hence, CEOs prefer to be prudent to protect their status. However, CEO with foreign tertiary education experience is more likely to adopt IR4.0 technology because they have more global knowledge, broader perspectives, and a more receptive attitude to risks and innovative solutions. Lastly, it is found that female CEO tends to be more prudent in firm with fewer directors due to lower complexity and relatively narrower scope of operations.
The Politics of School Funding: How State Political Ideology is Associated With the Allocation of Revenue to School Districts
Authors: Favero Nathan , Kagalwala Ali
Published: June 2024

States diverge widely when it comes to education funding choices, leading to substantial differences in how much states spend on schooling, the role of local versus state revenue sources, and relative differences among districts in funding levels. Prior studies have documented that Democratic party control of state governments appears to be associated with higher levels of spending on K-12 education, but beyond that we know little about how political ideology is related to patterns of education funding allocation by states. This study examines this question using a nationwide dataset of school district expenditures from 1999 to 2015. The results indicate that states that are more politically liberal tend to provide more funds (per pupil) to local districts. More liberal states also provide relatively more favorable distributions to districts that are more urban and have larger Black student populations, in addition to perhaps rewarding districts with higher local property tax rates.
Book review: Anshuman Behera and Hippu Salk Kristle Nathan, Negotiating Development at the Margins: Natural Resources, Conflicts, and People’s Movements in Odisha
Authors: Manzoor Zarnain
Published: June 2024

Anshuman Behera and Hippu Salk Kristle Nathan, Negotiating Development at the Margins: Natural Resources, Conflicts, and People’s Movements in Odisha. Routledge, 2023. 148 pp., ₹1,295. ISBN: 9781032425245 (Hardback).
Economic statecraft by design and by default: The political economy of the 5G-Huawei bans in the United States, United Kingdom and Germany
Authors: Walter Moritz F. , Trampusch Christine
Published: June 2024

The ban of Huawei by the United States and European governments from their 5G infrastructure has been described in recent literature as economic statecraft. However, it remains under researched that in these ban decisions the domestic political and economic constellations differed. To address this gap, this study adopts an agency perspective and compares 5G Huawei policies in the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom. While in the United States the ban was unanimously supported by state actors and telecommunication companies and equipment manufacturers, in the United Kingdom and Germany telecommunication companies and (initially also) governments were opposing the ban. There, we also observe interests from governing parliamentarians across political parties representing cyber security interests prevail in the domestic policy making processes over political and economic actors representing economic interests. In line with recent works on the domestic politics of economic statecraft and adopting the method of structured, focused comparison our inductive, theory developing case study reveals that economic statecraft is a dyadic concept between ‘by default’ and ‘by design’. We show that economic statecraft occurs ‘by default’ in the manner that states’ and businesses’ interests align, it happens ‘by design’ in the manner that states’ and businesses’ interests diverge. We contribute to previous literature that theory building on economic statecraft should start before the notions of power and policy preferences by a closer inspection of the domestic interest constellations.
The eye at hand: when visually impaired people distribute ‘seeing’ with sensing AI
Authors: Nielsen Ann Merrit Rikke , Due Brian L , Lüchow Louise
Published: June 2024

What does it mean to see and look? Can seeing and looking be done without using the eyes? This article contributes to studies in visual communication through empirical visual research into human vision, visual impairment and computer vision technologies, using video-ethnographic methods. These topics essentially enable a respecification of the concept of vision, the role of visual and material culture, and the exploration of visual means of communication in social and cultural worlds. In this article, the authors advance the understanding of visuality and vision by showing empirically how ‘seeing’ and ‘looking’ are not uniquely human abilities, but rather informational phenomena that can be achieved through distribution with a technological, nonhuman sensing AI. This study draws on video-recorded data in which visually impaired persons (VIPs) use a smartphone with a computer vision-based app while grocery shopping in a supermarket. Based on video ethnography, ethnomethodology and conversation analysis (EMCA), they show the orderly, practical organization of four specific practices: (1) fleeting glancing; (2) searching; (3) identifying; and (4) locating. In the examples, these ordinary human practices for achieving visual information are done while using the technology as a handheld ‘eye’. This research contributes to studies in visual impairment, visuospatial organization and the use of AI consumer products in a context of cultural practices for accomplishing the act of looking at and picking up grocery products. The article contributes new knowledge on visuality by expanding the concept of distributed perception and by suggesting a praxeological respecification of achieving visuospatial perception as an action in the world.
Youth crime and the faulty commodity in education: Students with disabilities invisible in the neoliberalism of Australian education
Authors: Teather Susan , Hillman Wendy
Published: June 2024

Australian society is teetering on the brink of anarchy under the threat of rapidly rising youth crime. Statistics showing offences committed by children aged 10 to 17 has risen by 18.2% since 2022. Research indicates that these figures are directly affected by educational outcomes impacted by disability and disengagement at school. Australian education in the 21st century continues to operate as an institutionalised industrial mechanism of neoliberalism losing the ability to perceive the individual in its process. Leaving students with disability on the fringes of education results in disengagement, and exclusion and what is now beginning to be seen as a common pattern emerging in youth crime. Since 2010, the My School neoliberalism of education has transformed Australian students into commodities to produce a prosperous government economy. Students reduced to Human Capital. Schools are now placed as if on the stock market of My School league tables. They are regulated in the market and commodified through the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN), standardised testing. The study used a mixed methodology to explore the faulty commodity in the state education system in Australia – the ‘invisible’ students with disabilities. How this may have impacted the increasing youth crime figures and future outcomes re also examined. In addition to the social contract of legislation, the Queensland Education Act (2006), pledges that all students receive ‘a high-quality education to maximise educational potential’ ( Queensland Parliamentary Council, 2015 : 24) is failing disadvantaged students and society. How schools educate students within a veiled system that continues to hide and remove the unwanted product, the students with disabilities from the marketplace of My School is also investigated. The action of Capitalism sustained in education through the hidden curriculum of NAPLAN is also examined.
Deep transfer learning architecture for suspension system fault diagnosis using spectrogram image and CNN
Authors: Arun Balaji Parameshwaran , Naveen Venkatesh Sridharan , Sugumaran Vaithiyanathan , Mahamuni Vetri Selvi
Published: June 2024

The suspension system plays a critical role in automobiles, ensuring the safety and comfort of vehicle occupants. However, extended usage, varying road conditions, external forces, and heavy loads can result in damage and faults within the internal components of the suspension system. To mitigate the occurrence of suspension system failures, the development of an effective fault diagnosis system for suspension components becomes imperative. Traditional fault diagnosis techniques often heavily rely on human expertise, which comes with certain limitations. In response, researchers have embraced intelligent fault diagnosis techniques, with transfer learning-based fault diagnosis emerging as a highly effective approach. By leveraging transfer learning, it becomes possible to extract and select fault-specific features for classification purposes. Deep learning-based methods, with their capacity to extract significant features and essential information from raw data, offer notable advantages. Despite these advantages, the implementation of deep learning-based fault diagnosis in suspension systems remains relatively unexplored and limited. In this article, a deep transfer learning architecture specifically designed for fault diagnosis in suspension systems is proposed. The approach involves employing 12 pre-trained networks and tuning them to identify the optimal model for fault diagnosis. Time domain vibration signals obtained from suspension systems under seven fault conditions and one good condition are transformed into spectrogram images. These images are then pre-processed and used as input for the pre-trained networks in fault classification. The results demonstrate that among the 12 pre-trained networks, AlexNet outperforms the others in terms of classification accuracy while requiring the least amount of training time. Therefore, AlexNet network in conjunction with the spectrogram images of time domain vibration signals for applications in suspension system fault diagnosis is highly recommend.
Computational and experimental analysis of PCM-infused brick for sustainable heat regulation
Authors: Dellagi Amira , Ayed Rabeb , Bouadila Salwa , Guizani AmenAllah
Published: June 2024

Examining the thermodynamics of phase change materials (PCMs) when merged into construction materials is a significant subject within the realm of building science and environmental responsibility. When infused to construction materials like bricks, PCMs have the capacity to elevate a building’s temperature regulation by minimizing the energy required for thermal contentment. This research is dedicated to learn about the thermal conduct and the consequences of the fusion of calcium chloride hexahydrate mineral (CCHPCM) within the pores of a masonry unit. To achieve this, we implemented a practical testing specifically designed to scrutinize how CCHPCMs alter the thermal performance of studied compounds. Multiple configurations were designed by adjusting the arrangement of CCHPCM within the bricks, resulting in three distinct setups. The first set involved filling one row of the bricks, the second set entailed filling two rows, and the final configuration entailed filling all the pores with PCM. Additionally, a computational modeling was executed to survey the thermic behavior of bricks infused with CCHPCM, operating with COMSOL Multiphysics application program. The elaborated work concluded to having an enhancement of the brick’s thermal storage capacity, for Set-3, in which all rows of bricks are filled with PCM, a delay of 2 h is observed compared to Set-0 the brick without CCHPCM. This simulation also encompassed comparative findings regarding the thermal performance of CCHPCM when incorporated into the masonry unit. Overall, this study supplied the valorization of CCHPCMs infused in masonry units and their usage in distinct layouts on upgrading its candidature to achieving environmental responsibility.
Challenges Faced by Women With Neuromuscular Diseases When Having to Urinate Away From Home
Authors: Handberg Charlotte , Kristensen Bente , Jensen Bente Thoft , Glerup Sarah , Pharao Antoniett Vebel , Strøm Jeanette , Werlauff Ulla
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the challenges women with neuromuscular disease face when having to urinate when away from home. The design for this study was qualitative using the interpretive description methodology and the Sense of Coherence theory. The method was three semi-structured focus group interviews with 12 women (3 ambulant and 9 non-ambulant) with neuromuscular diseases at a specialized rehabilitation hospital. We found that physical and functional barriers hampered the opportunity to urinate when away from home due to lack of accessibility and impaired physical functioning. Psychosocial impacts were related to inconvenience and dependency on relatives, fear of stigmatization and impacted dignity, and the constant social sacrifices. The challenge of access to adequate and equitable sanitation for women with neuromuscular diseases is not at always met in society, and these women consequently often must resort to repressing the fundamental need to urinate.