bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Right-Peopling” the State: Nationalism, Historical Legacies, and Ethnic Cleansing in Europe, 1886-2020
Authors: Müller-Crepon Carl , Schvitz Guy , Cederman Lars-Erik
Published: January 2024

Many European nation-states were historically homogenized through violent ethnic cleansing. Despite its historical importance, we lack systematic evidence of the conditions under which groups where targeted with cleansing and how it impacted states’ ethnic demography. Rising nationalism in the nineteenth century threatened multi-ethnic states with “right-sizing” through secessionism and irredentism. States therefore frequently turned to brutal “right-peopling”, in particular where cross-border minorities and those with a history of political independence increased the risk of territorial losses. We test this argument with new spatial, time-variant data on ethnic geography and ethnic cleansing from 1886 to the present. We find that minorities that politically dominated another state and those that have lost political independence were most at risk of ethnic cleansing, especially in times of interstate war. At the macro-level, our results show that ethnic cleansing increased European states’ ethnic homogeneity almost as much as border change. Both produced today’s nation-states by aligning states and ethnic nations.
Disentangling Product Comparisons with the Attribute–Hedonic Model
Authors: Arens Zachary G.
Published: January 2024

Marketers often assume that consumers comparing products (e.g., two TVs) will show a hedonic contrast. In other words, a product seems more appealing and consumers are willing to pay more for it when it is compared with an unappealing competitor than when it is compared with a highly appealing one. However, hedonic judgments (e.g., how appealing is this TV?) are confounded with underlying attribute judgments (e.g., how big is this TV?), and it is important to delineate their effects. This article presents six studies to disentangle them and shows evidence for two separate effects in opposite directions: while a product’s attribute judgments contrast with those of a competitor, its hedonic judgments assimilate. Thus, marketing tactics based on the assumption of the hedonic contrast hypothesis can potentially backfire, reducing willingness to pay. More generally, this research reveals the hidden complexity underlying product comparisons.
Navigating the Career Development of Students With Disabilities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Authors: Chun Jina , Kim Jaeyoung , Lee Minju , Richard Constance
Published: January 2024

In pursuit of the full inclusion of individuals with disabilities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and careers, it is essential to facilitate their successful academic and career development, while simultaneously implementing STEM pathways that mitigate barriers and improve retention. This study endeavors to explore the impact of career development activities, self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and goals on the quality of life (QoL) of college students with disabilities in STEM. Participants were 182 college students with disabilities attending 2-year and 4-year private/public universities in a Midwestern state. The findings of this research offer empirical evidence for a structural model that predicts the QoL of college students with disabilities in STEM. These results underscore the importance of strengthening support systems, nurturing partnerships, and enhancing access for students with disabilities engaged in STEM learning and career exploration. By shedding light on these dynamics, this research contributes to the creation of a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals with disabilities who aspire to excel in STEM fields.
Lower limbs strength variations between injured and non-injured professional soccer players
Authors: Martins Francisco , França Cíntia , Sarmento Hugo , Henriques Ricardo , Przednowek Krzysztof , Nascimento Marcelo de Maio , Marques Adilson , Ihle Andreas , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio
Published: January 2024

Due to its physical demands, professional soccer is becoming a real challenge regarding players’ exposure to high injury risk. Given its tight correlation with high-intensity actions, muscular strength is a crucial physical characteristic for soccer players. Therefore, the aims of this study are (a) to compare the vertical jumping performance during the season according to the injury profile, and (b) to investigate differences in isokinetic strength performance at the beginning and the end of the season. Twenty-one male professional soccer players (age: 26.0 ± 4.1 years, height: 181.0 ± 6.9 cm, body mass: 73.7 ± 6.9 kg) were assessed in isokinetic strength (Biodex System 4 Pro Dynamometer), and Optojump Next (Microgate, Bolzano, Italy). Isokinetic strength analyses considered the peak torque scores of knee flexors and knee extensors, according to the player's preferred and non-preferred limb. The countermovement and squat jump maximum height were assessed as lower body explosive strength indicators. No significant differences were found when comparing injured and non-injured players in vertical jump and isokinetic strength assessments. However, significant results were found when comparing both groups’ initial and final evaluation in isokinetic strength assessment, with both groups significantly improving their performance. Our findings indicate that the overall lower body strength performance was not a discriminant factor between injured and non-injury players. Thus, muscular strength assessment performance increased throughout the season independently of the injury profile. Future research needs to integrate other variables related to sports injuries since they seem to result from multifactorial causes.
The Age of the Smartphone: An Analysis of Social Predictors of Children’s Age of Access and Potential Consequences Over Time
Authors: Gerosa Tiziano , Losi Lucilla , Gui Marco
Published: January 2024

Smartphones are the principal instrument for internet access among adolescents and pre-adolescents in many industrialized countries. However, research on the long-term correlates of age at first access to these devices concerning life outcomes is scarce. This study contributes to the literature by collecting data from 3,247 Italian students in grade 10. Through OLS and logistic regressions, we investigate socio-demographics’ role in predicting the age of first smartphone access and the associations between the age of access and selected life outcomes. The moderating effect of socio-demographics on such relationships is also investigated through multiple-interaction models. Results suggest that females and students from less-educated families are more likely to receive smartphones earlier. Early smartphone access is negatively associated with adolescents’ well-functioning. Finally, deferring access reduces the gender gap in language proficiency, digital skills and life satisfaction.
Classroom as Crucible in the Humboldtian University: Reply to Collin
Authors: Fuller Steve
Published: January 2024

This reply to Finn Collin’s critically sympathetic review of my Back to the University’s Future: The Second Coming of Humboldt, addresses some of the tensions involved in realizing “Humboldt 2.0” in today’s higher education environment. Its focus is largely on the academic’s sense of researcher as being one of learner. In other words, the Humboldtian sees research as the necessary complement to teaching, not something radically distinct from it.
Prioritizing sustainable renewable energy systems in Tunisia: An integrated approach using hybrid multi-criteria decision analysis
Authors: Rekik Sassi , El Alimi Souheil
Published: January 2024

In recent years, renewable energy technologies (RETs) have become increasingly popular worldwide to achieve energy sufficiency, reduce reliance on conventional fuels, and mitigate their devastating environmental impact. Nonetheless, more appears to have stayed the same in emerging economies, such as Tunisia, as various barriers hampered the implementation of these technologies. Hence, the prime objective of this article is to conduct a thoughtful assessment of four prominent renewable energy options for electricity generation and explore the most potential barriers hindering their development in Tunisia. To do so, a two-stage approach was applied. First, CRiteria Importance Through Inter-Criteria Correlation (CRITIC) and Evaluation based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) were used to evaluate the considered alternatives, namely solar PV, concentrated solar power (CSP), onshore wind, and biomass. Then, an integrated step-wise assessment ratio analysis and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory approach (SWARA-DEMATEL) was developed to identify the most relevant barriers. The related criteria and barriers were determined based on an exhaustive literature review and experts’ feedback. The obtained results indicated that solar PV and wind were the most promising renewable technologies, while biomass was the worst option. To validate the outcome and demonstrate the effect of changing input data on the final results, a sensitivity analysis has been carried out. As for the key obstacles, political instability, high upfront costs, and market access mechanisms were the most influential barriers. Hence, prioritizing different RETs and analyzing the inherent barriers to their utilization would offer insightful guidance to policymakers, enabling them to establish efficient strategies for overcoming these obstacles, and accelerating the deployment of these technologies in the country.
Submucosal Epstein-Barr Virus Positive Polymorphic B-cell Lymphoproliferative Disorder of the Larynx: A Case Report
Authors: Mumtaz Sehreen , Candelo Estephania , Krishna Murli , Jiang Liuyan , Bhatt Alok A. , Bridges Margaret , Cardona Andres , Rutt Amy , Berianu Florentina , Butendieck Ronald R.
Published: January 2024

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) belongs to the group of human herpes virus and can cause clinical and subclinical infections. Although EBV-related disease presentations are similar, they can lead to oncogenic transformation with various clinical manifestations. A thorough workup with morphology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular studies is crucial for the diagnosis of EBV-positive polymorphic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder, not otherwise specified (NOS), which is a new entity introduced by International Consensus Classification in 2022. We describe an interesting presentation of EBV-positive polymorphic B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder with laryngeal involvement to bring awareness to this entity and we would like to address the need for more accessible treatment options.
The characteristics of high-quality health and social care for people on probation: Professional and lived experience perspectives
Authors: Sirdifield Coral , Parkhouse Thomas , Mullen Philip , Nadia
Published: January 2024

We investigated the characteristics of high-quality health and social care for people on probation and how they might be measured. Online open-ended survey responses and focus group data were analysed using thematic analysis. Providing high-quality care involves an understanding of the population's needs; tailoring practice to accommodate and meet individuals’ needs; inter-agency collaboration; and seeking and acting on lived experience input. High-quality care is evidence-based and accessible and produces positive outcomes for people on probation. Foundations for achieving these outcomes are supportive, trusting and consistent supervisory relationships (working alliances) with professional practice that is sufficiently resourced, compassionate and person-centred.
Experiences of a student with a visual impairment transitioning to higher education: A narrative inquiry
Authors: Tomlinson Amy , Killingback Clare
Published: January 2024

Transition to higher education is a considerable period of change for students, and can be a particularly challenging time for students with a visual impairment. The aim of this study was to understand the transition experiences of an undergraduate student in Sport Rehabilitation with a visual impairment. A narrative inquiry was conducted with one participant purposively sampled due to being certified severely sight impaired. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview, and analysed by creating narrative threads within Clandinin and Connelly’s three-dimensional framework. The social influence of role models, peers, and staff were noted in relation to their impact on confidence and feeling of fitting in. Navigating the campus, teaching spaces, and demonstrations were all highlighted as spatial factors that affected independence and participation during transition. Time-related aspects such a personal development, proactivity, and pre-, during, and post-teaching session experiences were identified as key considerations. The narratives uncovered should serve as a tool to trigger reflection on previous teaching practice, and inform future direction. The findings and recommendations within this study will benefit transition and inclusivity for students with a visual impairment, particularly on Sport Rehabilitation or other healthcare programmes, allowing them to study and practice effectively.
Trajectories of Mizo tribal historiography
Authors: Ralte Lalfakawma
Published: January 2024

The British colonizers, while writing about Mizoram and Mizo history, stressed their achievements in uplifting the Mizo community. Christian missionaries from Wales landed in Mizoram after the British colonizers annexed the land. They also followed the British administrators’ patronizing way of writing Mizo history. They saw the Mizo people as savage, and unsaved who needed the Gospel. They viewed Mizo society as one that needed a complete transformation. The first-generation Mizo Christians, too, looked at Mizo society from the Western lens. That was because missionaries trained them to be as Western as possible. A significant shift in Mizo Christian historiography emerged in the 1990s, emphasizing that tribal communities accepted Jesus Christ not because of external factors such as the arrival of missionaries from a foreign country, but because God resides in their hearts and that the Holy Spirit inspired them to believe in Jesus Christ, whoever the agent was.
Novel Ag3PO4-ZnO@GOTernary composite, synthesis, characterisation and photodegradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Ghazanfar Sadia , Sarfraz Sana , Asif Hafiz Muhammad , Mahmood Khalid , Khan Muhammad Ali , Tariq Muhammad , Usman Muhamamd , Sirajuddin Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, photocatalytic degradation and removal of organic water pollutants such as dyes have gained worldwide attention due to their potential toxicity. The Ag3PO4-ZnO@GO ternary composite was successfully synthesised via hydrothermal process. The as-prepared ternary composite was characterised using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) techniques. The prepared ternary composite was used as a photocatalyst in the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). The ternary nanocomposite exhibited a maximum degradation efficiency of 86% after light irradiation for 110 min as compared to pure ZnO (36%) and Ag3PO4-ZnO binary composite (46%) due to its improved photocatalytic efficiency under visible light, proficient charge separation and innovative electronic characteristics.
Prejudice but no pride: The Portuguese Universal Decimal Classification’s labelling of sexual orientation
Authors: Vicente Paulo , Terra Ana Lúcia , de Freitas Maria Cristina Vieira , de Matos Cardoso Maria Manuela Tavares
Published: January 2024

Critical cataloguing aims to study cases of social injustice, misrepresentation, negative biases, offensive terminologies, and hegemonic and oppressive hierarchical structures in the representation of communities and identities in knowledge organization systems. The aim of this study is to provide a critical analysis of the representation of sexual orientation in the Portuguese Universal Decimal Classification, grounded in a qualitative content analysis method. The results show that the principle of exhaustiveness does not manifest itself in the representation of sexual orientation. The absence of the term ‘heterosexuality’ mirrors the heteronormative hegemony, while the minoritization of ‘lesbianism’, but not of ‘male homosexuality’, reflects the patriarchal hegemony. The representation of sexual orientation carries the historical pathologization of sexual orientations other than heterosexuality. The Portuguese Universal Decimal Classification conveys negative biases and misrepresents sexual orientation in a way that is irreconcilable with present-day reality. Critical thinking must be encouraged within the library community and the Universal Decimal Classification should be promptly revised and updated.
Responsiveness of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures After Large Knee Articular Cartilage Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Abed Varag , Kapp Sabryn , Nichols Michael , Shephard Leah , Jacobs Cale , Conley Caitlin , Stone Austin V.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Cartilage transplantation is commonly used to treat large (>4 cm2) articular cartilage defects of the knee. The 2 most common transplants are osteochondral allograft transplantation and autologous chondrocyte implantation. Several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) have been used to determine the efficacy of treatment, but it is unknown which measures are the most effective.

Purpose:

To report the multiple PROMs used after large knee articular cartilage transplantation surgery and to compare the responsiveness between them.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic search of the PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science databases was performed. A total of 181 articles met inclusion criteria. Patient and study characteristics were extracted, including pre- and postoperative means for PROMs. From the articles that met inclusion criteria for responsiveness analysis (2+ PROMs reported, 1-year minimum follow-up, reported pre- and postoperative means and standard deviations; n = 131), the authors compared the responsiveness between PROM instruments using effect size and relative efficiency (RE) if a PROM could be compared with another in ≥10 articles.

Results:

A total of 10,015 patients (10,093 knees; mean age, 34.8 years; mean body mass index, 26.1) were included in this study. The mean follow-up time was 58.3 months (range, 1.5-247.2 months), imaging findings were reported in 80 articles (44.2%), patient satisfaction was reported in 39 articles (21.5%), and range of motion was reported in 10 articles (5.5%). There were 58 unique PROM instruments identified, with the most used being the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score (n = 118; 65.2%), followed by Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Pain (n = 58; 32.0%), KOOS Sport and Recreation (n = 58; 32.0%), KOOS Quality of Life (n = 57; 31.5%), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (n = 57; 31.5%), and KOOS Symptoms (n = 57; 31.5%). Overall, IKDC was found to have the greatest effect size (1.68) and the best responsiveness of the other PROMs, which include KOOS Pain (RE, 1.38), KOOS Symptoms (RE, 3.06), KOOS Activities of Daily Living (RE, 1.65), KOOS Sport and Recreation (RE, 1.44), Lysholm (RE, 1.76), and Tegner (RE, 1.56).

Conclusion:

The IKDC is the most responsive PROM after large knee articular cartilage transplantation surgery. The IKDC score is recommended for assessing outcomes after cartilage transplantation surgery.
Cow's Milk Anemia in Childhood Manifesting as Severe Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Maher Kristin , Amlie-Lefond Catherine
Published: January 2024

We describe a series of 7 toddler-aged children with iron deficiency anemia from excessive cow's milk consumption who presented with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis and no other identifiable risk factors for thrombosis. The deep venous system was involved in 6 patients, 6 had venous infarcts, and 5 have significant neurocognitive sequelae.
The Relation Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Health Behaviors in Adult Women
Authors: Tavares Karina L. , Tsotsoros Cindy E.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify whether adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) influence health lifestyles throughout adulthood and examine how ACEs influence dimensions of health lifestyles.

Design

The data was collected cross-sectionally through an online questionnaire.

Setting

Individuals were invited to participate in an online survey for a larger brain health study as a pre-screening measure.

Subjects

Women in the Midwest between 18-25 and 65-85 who reported either no ACEs or 3 or more ACEs completed the survey, with 233 women answering all questionnaires.

Measures

Demographic indicators, the 10-item ACEs questionnaire, and the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP-II).

Analysis

Independent sample t-tests revealed significantly lower scores for ACEs group on the HPLP-II and the 6 subcategories (heath responsibility, interpersonal relationships, nutrition, physical activity, spiritual growth, and stress management). A structural equation model using the 3 ACE categories (abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction) and 6 health domains showed substantial differences in the variance captured for each health behavior.

Results

Findings indicate that abuse predicts physical activity, stress management, and spiritual growth (β = −.21, −.23, −.20); neglect predicts interpersonal relationships and spiritual growth (β = −.17, −.18); and household dysfunction predicts health responsibility, nutrition, stress management, and interpersonal relations (β = −.20, −.22, −.10, −.17).

Conclusion

The present investigation extends research in displaying that ACEs play a significant role in future health behaviors, with household dysfunction being the greatest predictor.
COVID-19 and outcomes in Chinese peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Liao Ruoxi , Zhou Xueli , Ma Dengyan , Wang Shaofen , Fu Ping , Zhong Hui
Published: January 2024

Background:

Reports on COVID-19 in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients are scarce in China. This study aimed to describe the characteristics and outcomes of PD patients with COVID-19 after China abandoned the ‘zero-COVID’ policy.

Methods:

This single-centre retrospective study included patients receiving PD who underwent testing for COVID-19 infections between 7 December 2022 and 7 January 2023. Outcomes of interest included factors associated with positive COVID-19 testing result and clinical outcomes including COVID-19-related hospitalisation and severe COVID-19, which were analysed using logistic regression analyses.

Results:

A total of 349 PD patients (male 53.6%, age 49 ± 13 years old) were included, and 235 patients (67.3%) were infected. There were no significant differences between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients other than higher proportion of vaccinated patients and slow transporters in the patients who tested positive for COVID-19 (44.7% vs. 28.1%, p = 0.003; 8.7% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.03, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed COVID-19 was associated with vaccination (odds ratio (OR): 1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02–2.86) and slow transport type (compared with average transport type, OR: 4.52, 95% CI: 1.01–20.21). Among the patients with infection, 38 (16.2%) patients were hospitalised, 18 (7.7%) patients had severe disease and 9 (3.8%) patients died. In multivariate logistic analysis, both age (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.07; OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.11) and hyponatremia (OR: 5.44, 95% CI: 1.63–18.13; OR: 6.50, 95% CI: 1.77–23.85) were independent risk factors for COVID-19-related hospitalisation and severe disease.

Conclusions:

Although vaccinated patients were more likely to have tested positive for COVID-19 infection, they appeared to have less severe infection and less need for hospitalisation. Patients who were older with a history of hyponatremia were more likely to experience adverse outcomes from COVID-19.
Study on multi-objective adaptive cruise control of intelligent vehicle based on multi-mode switching
Authors: Chen Qiping , Gan Lu , Jiang Zhiqiang , Xu Zhao , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: January 2024

Aiming at the problems of slow response, poor comfort and high fuel consumption of the existing adaptive cruise control system under complex operating conditions, a multi-objective adaptive cruise control method of intelligent vehicles based on multi-mode switching is proposed. Firstly, the overall scheme of the adaptive cruise control system is designed by using the hierarchical control structure, and the multi-mode switching strategy is designed by using the fuzzy control theory to realize the division and switching of the working modes during vehicle cruise. Secondly, based on the variable spacing strategy and longitudinal kinematics model, the multi-objective of safety, following performance, fuel economy and comfort is analyzed and carried out, and a quadratic multi-objective optimization function based on multi constraints is obtained. Then, the model predictive control algorithm based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) is used to transform multi-objective function into a standard form with predictive control increment as the optimization variable, and the optimal control rate is solved. Finally, the simulation experiment is carried out by setting three complex working conditions: the preceding vehicle uniform speed change, the preceding vehicle rapid speed change and the adjacent vehicle cut in. The results show that the proposed method can meet the requirements of safety, comfort and fuel economy, and can improve the adaptability and friendliness of intelligent vehicle cruise control system.
Research on trajectory tracking control of driverless cars based on game theory
Authors: Li Gang , Tian Tian , Song Jialin , Li Ning , Bai Hongfei
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this game theory-based trajectory tracking control study of driverless cars is to resolve the conflicting problems of trajectory precision in tracking and drive stability for driverless cars in lane change situations. The general plan for control is made. The lateral control is based on the theory of evolutionary games, and the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) is a method for linear quadratic control with predictive feedforward. When it comes to dynamic systems that vary over time, trajectory tracking precision and drive stability are both sides of the same coin. The payoff matrix is first constructed to determine the utility function, followed by the dynamical replication system to evolve the weights of both sides, and finally the optimal an equilibrium strategy for weight allocation between the two sides of the game to achieve the optimal objective function is determined. The longitudinal dual PID controller has been designed based on proportional, differential, and integral theory. The results reveal that the developed controller outperforms the LQR controller in terms of tracking outcomes, as well as path tracking precision and drive stability.
Liver and ovarian toxicities boosted by bisphenol and gamma radiation in female albino rats
Authors: Hassan Asmaa A , Abdelgayed Sherein S , Mansour Somaya Z
Published: January 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA), a carbon-based synthetic polymer compound, was newly classified as an environmental toxicant and an endocrine-disrupting chemical leading to abnormalities in cell proliferation, apoptosis, or migration that contributes to cancer development and progression. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the elevation of γ- radiation dose and BPA on the liver and ovaries of female rats. In this study, eighty female albino rats (130–150 g) were used in this work. Rats in this experiment received BPA in ethanol (50 mg/kg b. wt.) for 30 days, day after day, and in the irradiated groups, animals were administered BPA and then exposed to γ- radiation in doses (2, 4, and 6 Gy) one shot dose. Several members of the cytochrome family were examined. Exposure to γ-radiation and BPA showed an increase in cytochrome P450 and b5 fold change. Further, BPA and γ-radiation activate α and β estrogen receptors and also downregulate aromatase (CYT19) fold change. The current results also revealed that BPA and/or γ-radiation regulate the protein expression of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) appeared to be targeted by BPA and γ-radiation and its relative expression was elevated significantly by raising the γ-radiation dose. In conclusion, exposure to BPA, an endocrine-disrupting chemical, leads to marked toxicity. Additionally, toxicity is heightened by increasing the γ-radiation dose, either alone or in combination with BPA.
Living temporality: Speculative engagements with elderly people on bioscience and the body
Authors: Hautamäki Lotta , Meskus Mianna
Published: January 2024

This article reports on speculative engagements in group conversations with elderly citizens on the biomedical possibilities of modifying aging in the future. The participants oriented themselves towards the future of aging through memories and present embodied perceptions. To constrict the analysis, we draw on Isabelle Stengers’ speculative thinking and, to conceptualize the multiplicity of temporalities in our data, we build on Henri Bergson's theorization on time. The analysis of the conversations on technoscientific change illustrate how experiences of aging and the life-span are constituted in and through relations with human and more-than-human others. We theorized these connections of the personal and the collective as living temporality with two temporal logics: Intergenerational time involving other humans in the past, present and future, and evolutionary time that connects the aging body to other living beings and the planet. Within these articulations of the experience of time various alternative perspectives into what is considered as ‘normal’ aging emerged as counternarratives to biomedical models of temporal change. Methodologically, we show that as speculative thinking foregrounds experiential knowledge, it provides a vessel for unruliness and freedom that allows other types of aging futures to emerge alongside bioscientific ones.
Characteristics of Auditory Brainstem Response in Night-shift Health Workers
Authors: Singh Samir Kumar , Rana Poonam Jyoti , Gupta Anita , Samaddar Dibyodyuti , Sharma Hanjabam Barun
Published: January 2024

Background: With technological advancement and economic competitiveness there is an exponential rise in the number of shift workers. Worldwide, healthcare workers constitute the single largest proportion of workers who work on shift duty in order to provide round-the-clock healthcare services to patients. Various studies have demonstrated an association between circadian cycle disturbance due to shift work and adverse health impacts.

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of night shift work on the brainstem-evoked auditory potentials in nursing interns who had been assigned to their first night shift after working day shifts.

Methods: A longitudinal, self-case-control study was designed with a sample of 67 nursing interns. Brainstem evoked response audiometry (BERA) had been done after completion of their first posting in Day-shift and then after completion of Night-shift. The paired t-test was used for data analysis.

Results: The findings of the study showed significant changes in latencies of wave II ( p < .0001), wave IV ( p < .0001), wave V ( p = .012 & .30), interpeak latency III-V ( p = .009 & .003) and V/I ratio ( p < .0001) for both ears.

Conclusions: BERA is an objective non-invasive test to evaluate hearing ability by measuring increased latency and interaural latency difference. After night shift, there were significant changes in auditory acuity which was highly suggestive of delayed transmission in auditory pathway. Hearing impairment has a cascading effect on cognition which may affect night-shift workers’ daily activities and may lead to medical error and risk to patient safety.
Parkinson’s Disease Carepartners’ Perceptions of the Challenges and Rewards of Caregiving
Authors: Seshadri Sandhya , Contento Angela , Sugiura Kei , Abendroth Maryann , Macchi Zachary , Kluger Benzi M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Multiple debilitating symptoms and the progressive nature of Parkinson’s disease (PD) affect carepartners’ quality of life. Although, there is abundant knowledge on caregiver burden there is limited knowledge on PD carepartners’ perceptions of caregiving.

Aim

To understand family members’ perception of their role, and of the challenges and rewards of PD caregiving.

Method

Using a qualitative descriptive research design, we conducted semi-structured interviews with current and former PD carepartners (n = 16). Interviews were audio-recorded, de-identified, and transcribed verbatim. Data were coded and analyzed to identify themes.

Results

We identified 5 themes: (a) Unpredictability is the hardest part of caregiving. It was hard to cope with the unpredictable daily and longer-term fluctuations in PD symptoms; (b) Disease progression and multiple symptoms contribute to carepartners’ emotional distress. Carepartners felt unprepared and were saddened by the patient’s and their own losses; (c) Caring for a family member is not a “burden.” Though stressful, carepartners resisted associating caregiving with the term “burden”; (d) Caregiving is a partnership. Carepartners saw their role as being less of “givers” and more of partners in disease management ; and (e) Caregiving is an opportunity for personal satisfaction, joy, and growth. Caregiving was seen as a “gift” that enabled carepartners to express love and experience personal growth.

Conclusions

Despite challenges PD carepartners view their role as “partners” in the management of the disease and find meaning and strength in caregiving. A palliative care approach emphasizing the positives and challenges of caregiving may provide carepartners with better support.
Dynamics modeling and attitude-vibration hybrid control of a large flexible space structure
Authors: Zhang Lei , Fan Wei , Chen Zheng , Ren Hui
Published: January 2024

The challenges in the dynamic modeling and control of large flexible space structures (LFSSs) include the high number of degrees of freedom in the model, the geometric nonlinearities in the flexible components, and the nonlinear coupling effects between overall motions and vibrations of the structure. In this study, we propose a systematic method to solve the mentioned problems in the research of LFSSs. We use the referenced nodal coordinate formulation (RNCF) to build the dynamic model. The modeling method is general and the model can better describe the large deformations of flexible structures compared with the modal-based dynamic model. The key feature of our work is that we use a hybrid control strategy for the attitude and vibration control directly performing on the full-scale dynamic model. Specifically, the control strategy combines a proportional and derivative (PD) control algorithm based on SO(3) for the attitude control and an analytical linear-quadratic (LQ) vibration control method for the vibration control. The simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid control strategy both in the three-axis attitude maneuver task and on-orbit pointing scenario.
Dynamic characteristics of bladder type attenuator for hydraulic systems
Authors: Wang Renyuan , Jiao Zongxia , Xu Yuanzhi
Published: January 2024

Flow ripples caused by the pump will lead to system failure or equipment damage. The bladder type attenuator is utilised to suppress flow ripples in piping systems, though its mathematic model has not been given out precisely. In this paper, the governing equations of the hollow cylindrical shell describing the bladder’s behaviour are studied. Considering the bladder’s viscoelastic materials, the constitutive function is obtained through DMA (Dynamic thermo-mechanical analysis) test and the WLF (Williams–Landel–Ferry) equation. Thus, the dynamic model of the attenuator can be written as an impedance expression, which consists of integral, fractional, constant, and differential components. Three experiments are carried out to validate the theoretical models. The static and dynamic models of the bladder are validated by experiments, indicating good agreement. The impedance model of the attenuator is validated by a hydraulic experiment assessed with the IL (insertion loss) index, showing high accuracy. All models proposed in this work are proven to be effective and accurate, and can be used to evaluate and optimise the bladder type attenuator theoretically.
Predefined-time sliding mode control for synchronization of uncertain hyperchaotic system and application
Authors: Zheng Wei , Qu Shaocheng , Tang Qian , Du Xiaona
Published: January 2024

The main goal of this paper is to investigate the predefined-time sliding mode control and synchronization of uncertain hyperchaotic systems and its application in secure communication. Firstly, a novel predefined-time sliding surface is designed. Then a predefined-time sliding mode controller is proposed for uncertain hyperchaotic systems, which can guarantee synchronization of the master-slave system within a predefined time in the presence of parameter uncertain and external disturbance. Specially, the settling time, as a part of control parameters, can be predefined as needed independent of initial conditions. Furthermore, the validity of the proposed approach is proved by Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, comparative tests and image encryption application are given to show advantages of the proposed method.
Nonlinear free vibrational behavior of temperature-dependent two-directional functionally graded truncated cone-like shells in thermal environment
Authors: Shadmani Mahmoud , Afsari Ahmad , Jahedi Reza , Kazemzadeh-Parsi Mohammad Javad
Published: January 2024

This article investigates nonlinear free vibrations of temperature-dependent two-directional functionally graded (TDTDFG) cone-like shells in thermal environment. The structure material is a combination of ceramic and metal with temperature-dependent mechanical characteristics varying continuously in the thickness and longitudinal directions. Initially, the thermomechanical dynamic equations of the system are modeled based on the first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT) and the strain-displacement relations of von Kármán. Afterward, the final governing equation for the structure’s transverse motion is obtained using the Galerkin discretization method. Finally, the governing equation is solved using improved Lindstedt-Poincaré method as an analytical technique, resulting in an equation for calculating the nonlinear frequencies of the shell. To validate the research’s results, the system frequencies are calculated under different conditions and compared with the results of previous studies. After ensuring the accuracy of the results, a parametric study is performed to evaluate the effects of various parameters on the linear and nonlinear frequencies of the TDTDFG cone-like shell in thermal environment. The results of this study have demonstrated that gradient indices, geometric ratios, and thermal environment have a significant influence on the nonlinear vibration behavior of structures.
Chirality effects in panto-cylindrical structures
Authors: Stilz Maximilian , Breuling Jonas , Eugster Simon , Pawlikowski Marek , Grygoruk Roman
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we apply a numerical integration strategy recently developed for determining the deformation shapes of structures constituted by Cosserat rods, to predict the behavior of panto-cylinders. Panto-cylinders have, as microstructure, a set of two families of helicoidal beams interconnected by perfect or elastic joints. The pivot’s free rotation axis is, in the reference configuration, orthogonal to the cylindrical surfaces spanned by the beams. We perform a series of numerical simulations looking for the mechanical parameters which exalt the chirality effects in the structure. For the performed compression, extensions, shear, and torsion tests, we find chiral deformation patterns with a dependence on the type of joint and its length.
The Voices of Transnational MotherScholars of Emergent Bilinguals
Authors: Kwon Jungmin , Sun Wenyang , Son Minhye
Published: January 2024

In this article, we—three Asian MotherScholars in the field of language and literacy education—conducted a collaborative self-study to examine how our individual and shared experiences as transnational mothers of emergent bilinguals have shaped our ways of promoting bilingualism and biliteracy. Our study drew on transnational feminist perspectives and used multimodal data and narratives shared in an online inquiry group. We highlighted ways we leverage our strengths and make conscious efforts to navigate burdens rooted in monolingual ideologies and linguistic hegemony as we raise our bilingual children. We also found how inquiring collectively into our experiences has helped us cultivate critical consciousness and build transnational solidarity. Through our stories, we emphasized the urgency of challenging inequities and pervasive monolingual ideologies within U.S. schools, as well as the necessity of creating a space for immigrant mothers to inquire into their experiences and to support each other.
The Circular Economy: A Transformative Service Perspective
Authors: Sönnichsen Sönnich , de Jong Ad , Clement Jesper , Maull Roger , Voss Chris
Published: January 2024

The rising awareness of climate challenges and resource constraints has strengthened interest in the circular economy (CE), characterized as an economic system aimed to minimize the depletion of the world’s natural resources through processes of value retention and value regeneration. Because CE research originated in the engineering field, studies to date have mostly focused on technical and management-related topics. However, due to increasing demands from customers, investors, governmental institutions, and regulatory bodies, companies are increasingly considering how to effectively implement the CE. Despite its increasing importance, the CE is yet an uncharted area of transformative service research (TSR), and little is known about how the CE can support change for greater well-being among individuals and collectives. To fill this research gap, we integrate notions of the CE with TSR and research on value co-creation. The purpose of this paper is to expand research on CE and services by taking a TSR perspective to delineate how value retention and regeneration processes for different levels and spheres in services can effect change for greater individual and collective well-being.
Cam-type hip morphology in asymptomatic patients
Authors: AlMousa Sulaiman A , Hegazi Tarek , AlKhamis Hashem A , AlTayyar Ziyad A , AlMutairi Mutlaq D , AlGhamdi Salim A , Almuhaish Mona I , Alzaid Mohammed M , Alsubaie Shayma S , Alzahrani Mohammad M
Published: January 2024

Background:

The alpha angle has been widely used in the assessment of cam-type of impingement, but recent studies have shown that this angle may also be high in asymptomatic patients. The aim of this study is to report the prevalence of cam-type morphology in asymptomatic volunteers and explore its correlation with hip clinical and radiological parameters.

Methods:

This single-centre prospective study included 48 asymptomatic male volunteers (96 hips). All candidates fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Physical examination and 1.5 -T MRI imaging were done for bilateral hips on the same day. Alpha angle measurements were obtained from 4 different positions and cam-type morphology was considered positive using 2 different cut points >55° and >60°. Descriptive statistics were analysed and correlations were performed where appropriate and p-value < 0.05 was considered to be significant.

Results:

The prevalence of cam-type morphology using alpha angle >55° was 68.8%, 87.5%, 50% and 34.4% in the 12, 1, 2 and 3 o’clock positions respectively. While it was 38.5%, 69.8%, 26% and 12.5% in the 12, 1, 2 and 3 o’clock positions of the studied hips respectively using alpha angle >60°. The maximum alpha angle was more frequently prevalent at the 1 o’clock position in 71 (74%). Labral tear was detected in 26 (27.1%) hips and impingement test was positive in 12 (12.5%) hips. There was no correlation between the presence of cam-type morphology and range of motion of the hip, presence of positive impingement test nor labral tears.

Conclusions:

Cam-type morphology prevalence is high among asymptomatic males, and mostly pronounced at the 1 o’clock position. A correlation between high alpha angle and positive impingement test or labral tear was not found in our cohort. Future studies are required to determine the natural history of asymptomatic cam-type morphology and risk of hip derangement.
The making of critical data center studies
Authors: Edwards Dustin , Cooper Zane Griffin Talley , Hogan Mél
Published: January 2024

In this article, the authors demonstrate how the data center has become a key site, object, and metaphor for interdisciplinary scholarship of the internet. While the data center is a fabrication of engineering, computer science, and cognate fields, it has been the critical gaze of scholars outside of those industries. Together, this scholarship has established the field of Critical Data Center Studies. Critiques of the data center – often thought of more generally as ‘internet infrastructure’, and more evocatively as ‘the cloud’ – have emerged from the social sciences, humanities, journalism, and the arts. The authors do this by answering questions about the current social, cultural, political, and environmental landscapes of the data center. Scrutiny of the foundational imaginaries of the internet, real estate deals by Big Tech, the industry’s enabling policies, their connections to energy and other public infrastructure – among many other factors – serves, at the very least, to situate the data center as a media object, as more than simply a material infrastructure, as more than data warehouse, and as more than ‘the cloud’. Further to this, the authors reflect on how the data center has been and continues to be studied, and why critical interventions have been so fruitful within a vast array of disciplines – from history and anthropology, to media studies, information studies, and science & technology studies – for shifting the focus from questions of infrastructural visibility to questions that weave together concerns of efficiency, policy, popular culture, and planetary devastation.