bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature-dependent based optimal reactive power dispatch by chaotic equilibrium optimization algorithm
Authors: Dao Minh Trung , Vo Ngoc Dieu
Published: February 2025

The optimal reactive power dispatch (ORPD) problem is considered as an important aspect in power system operation of the reactive power, which is vital to maintain network voltage within desirable limit for system reliability. In conventional ORPD problem, the resistance of components in power systems is considered to be independent to their temperature variations. Actually, there is a correlation between the branch resistance and temperature, thus the temperature should be taken into account when performing power flow analysis to improve the accuracy in the calculation of the power flow and power loss on branches. This paper proposes a new chaotic equilibrium optimization (CEO) method to solve the temperature-dependent based optimal reactive power dispatch (TDORPD) problem in power systems by optimizing the reactive power loss and voltage deviation. The proposed CEO algorithm is implemented for the conventional ORPD and TDORPD problems on the benchmark IEEE 30 bus testing network. Moreover, the effects of temperature variations on the considered TDORPD problem are also considered. The obtained results have demonstrated a better performance of the proposed CEO algorithm compared to the original EO and other methods in the literature review for the problem in terms of the solution quality, which confirms its efficacy to effectively resolve the ORPD and TDORPD problem.
Implementation of innovative deep learning techniques in smart power systems
Authors: Devi Odugu Rama , Kolluru Pavan Kumar , Shaik Nagul , Trinadh Naidu Kamparapu V. V. Satya , Mohan Chunduri , Mohana Rai Pottasiri Chandra , Bhukya Lakshmi
Published: February 2025

The integration of deep learning techniques into smart power systems has gained significant attention due to their potential to optimize energy management, enhance grid reliability, and enable efficient utilization of renewable energy sources. This research article explores the enhanced application of deep learning techniques in smart power systems. It provides an overview of the key challenges faced by traditional power systems and presents various deep learning methodologies that can address these challenges. The results showed that the root mean square errors (RMSE) for the weekend power load forecast were 18.4 for the random forest and 18.2 for the long short-term memory (LSTM) algorithm, while 28.6 was predicted by the support vector machine (SVM) algorithm. The authors' approach provides the most accurate forecast (15.7). After being validated using real-world load data, this technique provides reliable power load predictions even when load oscillations are present. The article also discusses recent advancements, future research directions, and potential benefits of utilizing deep learning techniques in smart power systems.
Investigation on TiO2/graphene as resistance-based gas sensor for volatile organic compound gases detection
Authors: Mohd Chachuli Siti Amaniah , Nor Azmi Muhammad Haziq , Coban Omer , Shamsudin Nur Hazahsha
Published: February 2025

Volatile organic compound (VOC) gases are usually produced from industrial activities. Short-term exposure to VOC gases can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and throat irritation. Years to a long time exposure to VOC gases can cause cancer and system damage in the human body. With the growth of gas sensor technology, a resistance-based gas sensor based on various structures of resistance-based gas sensors using Titanium dioxide/graphene (TiO2/graphene) were investigated as a sensing material for detecting volatile organic compound gases, which are acetone and ethanol. The TiO2/graphene gas sensor was deposited on a Kapton film using a screen printing technique. All TiO2/graphene gas sensors were exposed to acetone and ethanol at room operating temperature. The results revealed that the highest response values to acetone and ethanol were produced by T99_G1_2 and T98_G2_1, respectively. It can be concluded that design 1 generated the most consistent response to acetone, while design 2 generated the most consistent response to ethanol.
Calibration of phased array antenna with the minimum point finding method of the array factor
Authors: Luong Nguyen Xuan , Nhan Nguyen Trong , Thanh Tran Van , Thanh Thuy Dang Thi
Published: February 2025

The problem of phased array antenna calibration with the minimum point finding method of the array factor is investigated. A mathematical model of the minimum point finding method is presented. Then, the proposed method is applied to the phased array antenna and compared with the traditional rotating-element electric-field vectors method. Experimental verification of the mathematical model of the proposed method showed the following: the minimum point finding method determines the phase shift more accurately than the maximum point finding method of the array factor; the proposed method showed a better detection range per phase change corresponding to a 35 dB higher resolution. The error ranges of the minimum and the maximum point finding methods were 50 and 700 , respectively. The peak of the combined beam when using the minimum point finding method is higher than the maximum point finding method which is 3.7 ... 4.1 dB. One can use the research results in large-scale phased array antenna calibration systems during the production phase.
Enhancing mobility with customized prosthetic designs driven by genetic algorithms
Authors: Seeni Senthil Kumar , Harshitha Ganadamoole Madhava , Rathinam Anantha Raman , Venkatara Nagaiyanallur Lakshminarayanan , Sasirekha Venkatesan , Tidke Bharat , Murugan Subbiah
Published: February 2025

Using genetic algorithms, this research intends to usher in a new era of prosthetic design that is redefining mobility. Through repeated evolutionary processes influenced by natural selection, the goal is to optimize prosthetic design parameters including material composition, structure, and control systems. The objective is to create prosthetic limbs that are more personalized to each user's requirements, improving their efficiency, comfort, and functioning via the application of genetic algorithms. The goal of this study is to show that the suggested strategy may improve mobility and user happiness more than standard ways by simulating and testing prosthetic devices in real-world settings. The end goal is to create conditions for a new age of prosthetic technology, where amputees' quality of life is greatly enhanced by devices that are individually designed to meet their biomechanical needs. The impact of prosthetic design and individual patient factors patient dataset derived from a random 5-sample with the following characteristics: ages 32–68, weight 65–90, height 155–180, crossover rate 0.6–0.9, mutation rate 0.05–0.2, population size 70–120, generations 30–60.
Fuzzy based energy efficient cluster head selection with balanced clusters formation in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Chandrappa Maruthi Hanumanthappa , Govindaswamy Poornima
Published: February 2025

The importance of energy conservation presents a considerable challenge in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), where the sensor nodes (SNs) that constitute the network depend on battery power. Recharging the batteries of SNs in the field is challenging. The clustering technique is a commonly employed method for attaining energy efficiency. In this article, we are proposing a fuzzy-based energy efficient cluster head (CH) selection with the balanced cluster formation (FEECH-BCF) technique. It is a hybrid of the k-means algorithm, low energy adaptive clustering hierarchy- uniform size cluster (LEACH-USC) technique, and fuzzy logic technique. To create the clusters, the k-means approach is employed. The idea of LEACH-USC is used for load balancing to produce clusters with uniform size by assigning member nodes (MNs) from larger clusters to smaller clusters. Optimized CHs are selected using fuzzy based CH selection technique. The k-means algorithm is simple and quick to set up, assigning the membership of SNs to the next best cluster based on centroid locations of clusters reduces intra-cluster distance among clusters, and with the help of fuzzy logic, optimized CHs will be selected. The proposed algorithm performs exceptionally well in attaining uniform energy consumption amongst clusters and extends the network’s lifetime to a greater extent.
Transformation of Public Administration in Zambia
Authors: Shikabi Penzi , Madimutsa Clever , Chewe Moses , Namukombo Justina , Daka Evans
Published: February 2025

Despite African countries such as Zambia having transformed public administration several times, they continue to experience the same socioeconomic challenges, such as poverty and inequality. This article discusses the changes in public administration in Zambia, highlighting the principles used and who benefited and lost from the transformation process. The article relied on secondary data sources. The findings show that three major approaches have been tried to transform Zambia’s public administration—traditional public administration, new public management and collaborative public management. Through these approaches, management principles such as centralisation, decentralisation, privatisation and service contracts have been implemented. In line with Marxist theory, the outcomes of the transformation process have benefited the ruling class at the expense of ordinary citizens, who include peasant farmers and workers. The article recommends that the delivery of public goods and services should be done by Civil Society Organisations, grant-aided cooperatives and single public-sector agencies.
Nietzsche’s Escape from and Return to Women
Authors: Achella Stefania
Published: February 2025

‘With women, “you never plumb their depths – they do not have any”.’ This quotation from Losurdo’s work Nietzsche, The Aristocratic Rebel, one of the many where Nietzsche addresses the feminine, clearly shows the German philosopher’s dislike and hatred of women. Yet, in his work, Nietzsche repeatedly returns to the role of the female. We can therefore say that the relationship with the feminine is one of the essential cruxes in Nietzsche’s thought.

Beginning with Losurdo’s interpretation, this essay intends not only to investigate the substantial discrepancy between Nietzsche’s ‘masculinist’ approach and his private and personal relationship with the feminine, but also to understand the theoretical, political, and historical reasons which led to his interpretation of the female. Such an investigation will allow us to bring out contradictions intrinsic to Nietzsche’s thought and reveal his sensitivity to the spirit of his time.
Yeast cell wall products effect on attachment of harmful foodborne strains of Salmonella to intestinal porcine enterocyte cell line (IPEC-J2)
Authors: Browne N. , McCormack A. , Horgan K.
Published: February 2025

Yeast cell wall (YCW) prebiotics from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, can be added to the diet of animals as an effective decoy molecule for Gram negative bacteria, helping to prevent colonisation of the gut by disease-causing organisms. However, the form and processing of YCW can affect its efficacy in preventing attachment of pathogens to the gut wall and, hence, colonisation. Several commercial yeast cell wall products, A, B and C, including a mannan rich fraction (MRF) product, were assessed for their ability to interfere with the attachment of Salmonella spp. to intestinal IPEC-J2 cells. Attachment of three serovars S. enterica Enteritidis, S. enterica Heidelberg, and S. enterica Typhimurium to IPEC-J2 cells was consistently inhibited with addition of MRF and, to a lesser extent, products B and C, while product A resulted in a greater attachment compared to the control. The reduced attachment of the three Salmonella spp. serovars to IPEC-J2 cells in the presence of MRF coincided with lower gene expression and protein of inflammatory markers interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8 and tumour necrosis factor α. However, products B and C had a more limited impact. Inversely IPEC-J2 cells in the presence of product A demonstrated higher inflammatory gene expression likely as a consequence of higher Salmonella attachment rates. This is important regarding gut health and function, as inflammation is implicated in poor performance and health. The use of MRF and, to a lesser extent, products B and C provided a means to limit the proliferation of foodborne strains of Salmonella spp. found in pig intestinal cells.
Academic Intrapreneurship beyond Commercialisation: Exploring the Establishment of a Research Centre as an Intrapreneurial Venture
Authors: Engzell Jeanette , Klofsten Magnus , Lundmark Erik
Published: February 2025

This article explores the establishment of research centres as manifestations of academic intrapreneurship, thus challenging the assumption that academic intrapreneurship is solely commercially driven, emphasizing the critical role of early stakeholder engagement, funding, strategic partnerships, effective communication and clearly defined roles. The article contributes to the intrapreneurship literature by contextualizing research centre creation as an intrapreneurial process, exploring how universities develop intrapreneurial capabilities, and identifying the challenges intrapreneurs face. Practical implications suggest investing in training and recognition systems to enhance intrapreneurial skills among faculty, staff, and students.
Bridging the Disconnect between Entrepreneurial University and Entrepreneurship Education Literature – a Call to Reposition Both Concepts
Authors: Ramsgaard Michael Breum
Published: February 2025

Literature on the entrepreneurial university concept prominently lacks interaction with entrepreneurship education literature. Despite the apparent beneficial connections between (1) educating students encompassing entrepreneurial competencies and (2) the institutional framing of the entrepreneurial university concept, the latter has predominantly found its raison d’être in institutional theories and not pedagogical ones. Influential scholars such as Alan Gibb and Paul Hannon early articulated the benefits of tying entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial university literature together. This article positions the entrepreneurial university as an ‘emergent pedagogical space’ where the typology can find new relevance in educational theories of pedagogy and didactics. Based on an integrative review, the article discerns the disconnect between the two literature streams. It suggests an updated framework in which entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial university activities are closely linked to benefit higher education management, educators, and regional ecosystems.
Disentangling the taxonomy of Succisella (Caprifoliaceae, Dipsacoideae) in the Iberian Peninsula: an updated synopsis and conservation priorities
Authors: FURA INÊS , COVELO FILIPE , SALES FÁTIMA , FARMINHÃO JOÃO
Published: February 2025

Morphological variation in the three Iberian Succisella species (S. andreae-molinae, S. carvalhoana and S. microcephala) is here examined based on novel diagnostic characters, notably the shape of the outermost involucral bracts, stolon and rosette position, and primary peduncle length. Accordingly, a new identification key and synoptic table are presented in a revised taxonomic treatment, with unprecedented photographic iconography of plants in situ. Succisella carvalhoana, here lectotypified, resurfaces as a Critically Endangered narrow endemic, confined to willow swamp forests in coastal central Portugal, requiring urgent conservation attention. Plants from Spain, and east-central Portugal, previously identified as S. carvalhoana are redetermined as S. microcephala, which is, accordingly, identified as a new country record for Portugal. The three distribution centres of S. microcephala (viz. Northern Meseta, Upper Alberche basin, and the southern foothills of the Central System) should be treated as different conservation units, requiring further taxonomic investigation. Succisella andreae-molinae and S. microcephala are preliminarily downlisted to Near Threatened, due to the improved understanding of their occurrence.
Merostachys tonicoi (Poaceae, Bambusoideae, Bambuseae), a new species at the frontier of Amazonian deforestation in Brazil
Authors: LOPES-NETO RAY BALIEIRO , SCHINDLER BIANCA , FIGUEIRA MAURÍCIO , SIMON MARCELO FRAGOMENI , VINÍCIUS-SILVA RONALDO , VIANA PEDRO LAGE
Published: February 2025

Recent collection efforts in the Rondônia state (Brazil) and inspection of Merostachys specimens in herbaria have revealed a distinct population of an Amazonian woody bamboo, here described and illustrated as a new species: Merostachys tonicoi. A morphological description, distribution, habitat and phenology data, a preliminary conservation status assessment, field photographs, a comparative table, taxonomic comments, and an identification key for the Brazilian Amazonian species of Merostachys are provided. Additionally, a comparative table and taxonomic comments on morphologically similar species from Eastern Brazil—M. delicatula and M. speciosa—are included.
Two new species of the subgenus Tachycines (Gymnaeta) (Orthoptera: Rhaphidophoridae: Aemodogryllinae) from a karst cave in China
Authors: FENG XUELI , XIAO JIE , ZHAO ZHENGXUE
Published: February 2025

Two new species of the subgenus Tachycines (Gymnaeta), Tachycines (Gymnaeta) Lianhuaensis sp. nov. and Tachycines (Gymnaeta) montana sp. nov. have been discovered within Lianhua Cave, Puding County, Anshun City, Guizhou Province. They occupy distinct spatial niches, with T. (G.) Lianhuaensis sp. nov. and T. (G.) montana sp. nov. inhabiting the lightless regions deep within the cave and at the entrance of the cave respectively. Furthermore, the vertex of the head of T. (G.) Lianhuaensis sp. nov. is not separated into two conical tubercles, the ocellus has vanished, and the eyes have experienced a slight reduction in size. Morphological characteristics of T. (G.) montana sp. nov. do not exhibit any significant signs of degradation. This finding is of great significance in understanding the adaptive evolution of the cave species of the subgenus T. (G.) within diverse ecological niches.
A new species of fish parasitic isopod, Lobothorax bharat sp. nov. (Isopoda: Cymothoidae) from Trichiurus lepturus Linnaeus 1758 (Scombriformes: Trichiuridae), India
Authors: MOHAPATRA SANDEEP KUMAR , ROY SANMITRA , SETH JAYA KISHOR , TRIPATHY BASUDEV , MOHAPATRA ANIL
Published: February 2025

Lobothorax bharat sp. nov., is described based on specimens collected in 2023 from Trichiurus lepturus Linnaeus, 1758, at the Bahabalpur and Gopalpur fish landing centres of Odisha coast, India. Lobothorax bharat sp. nov. can be identified by the sub-truncate rostrum; the anterolateral processes of pereonite 1 which are 0.45 times the cephalon length, do not extend beyond the anterior margin of cephalon; a distinct depression in the middle of pereonite 1; article 3 of maxilliped palp with three recurved robust setae; the pereopod 2 is larger than the first and the pereopod 3 being the smallest; the third pereopod is about 0.94 times that of the second and 0.97 times that of the first pereopod. Lobothorax bharat sp. nov. is further differentiated from the congeneric species L. typus in the nucleotide composition of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (mtCOI) gene by 2.5–2.6% Kimura-2-Parameter (K2P) distance (having a base pair difference of 16–17) and belongs to a separate cluster in the Maximum Likelihood tree analysis obtained through the best-fit model.
Cloeodes tovauna: a new species previously identified as Cloeodes aymore Massariol & Salles, 2011 (Ephemeroptera: Baetidae)
Authors: AMARAL I. F. , CIFUENTES-VARGAS E. T. , SALLES F. F.
Published: February 2025

In this study, material previously attributed to Cloeodes aymore Massariol & Salles is recognized and described as a distinct new species. The description is based on nymphs and reared adults collected in the State of Minas Gerais, Southeastern Brazil. The key characteristics that differentiate this new species from its congeners in nymphal stage are: a) body color pattern dark brown on head, thorax and abdominal segments; b) inner margin of labial palp segment III with robust pectinate setae; c) terga with spines present on posterior margins of segments II–X. The adults can be distinguished by the following characteristics: a) thorax dark brown; b) abdominal segments I, VII–X brown; terga IV with median pair of brown spots; c) single intercalary vein between RA-RP1 (sometimes paired), ICu1-ICu2 and ICu2-CuP; d) hind wings present; e) forceps segment III oval; posterior margin of subgenital plate slightly convex at middle. The interactive key to the South American species of the genus was updated to include the new species.
Fuelled humans: The petromodern entanglement of driving and living in Françoise Sagan
Authors: Slickers Carolin
Published: February 2025

Reading Françoise Sagan's texts, the question that arises is whether driving is characterised by the protagonists or whether driving characterises protagonists. This analysis reveals how indissociable both become, regarding questions of power, pleasure, and standstill. Entering Sagan's fiction means translating our notion of the human condition into a notion of automobility: Sagan's protagonists are fuelled humans – characters that recognise and express themselves by their relation to petromodern mobility.
Development of Vowel Intrusion in Spanish Heritage Speakers
Authors: Repiso-Puigdelliura Gemma
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the sound system of heritage speakers (henceforth, HSs) as they shift dominance from their heritage language to their majority language. Specifically, it analyzes the production of intrusive vowels in Spanish consonant clusters across the lifespan of HSs, focusing on tautosyllabic clusters (i.e., /Cɾ/) and heterosyllabic clusters (i.e., /ɾ.C/). Semi-spontaneous speech was elicited from three age groups of Spanish HSs—younger children, older children, and adults—for whom American English is the majority language, as well as from three age-matched groups of non-heritage Spanish speakers raised in Mexico. The presence and duration of intrusive vowels were examined, with the latter calculated as a ratio of intrusive vowel duration to tap duration. Overall, the results indicate that all speaker groups more frequently produce consonant clusters with intrusive vowels than without. However, Spanish HSs produced fewer and shorter intrusive vowels compared with their non-heritage counterparts. In addition, heritage and non-heritage speakers exhibited a lower rate of intrusive vowel production in the 5-to-8 -year-old group compared with adults. Despite this, the absence of an interaction between age group and speaker type suggests a parallel pattern of change in intrusive vowel production across all ages. Voicing emerged as the most consistent phonetic factor, predicting a higher rate of intrusive vowels with a longer duration relative to the tap.
Support Services for Positive College Experiences of Students With Disabilities in Higher Education: A Structured Topic Modeling Approach
Authors: Tu Wei-Mo , Liu Yangyang , Lee Lor Shoua , Li Qiwei
Published: February 2025

The purpose of the study was to understand the support needed for facilitating positive college experiences, and how the identified supports may be related to personal factors (e.g., academic rank and employment status). Using Structured Topic Modeling (STM), this study explored helpful support services that students used or perceived as missing among a sample of 210 students with disabilities enrolled in the universities from California. Findings indicated eight most helpful support services (supportive climate, mental health counseling, mobility support, note-taking service, advocacy and communication, extended time for test and assignment, private room for test, and awareness of student needs) and six support services that students with disabilities found important but missing or insufficient (professor’s understanding, mental health counseling, learning support, career counseling, support system, and online support). The most prevalent needs for students with disabilities included a supportive campus climate, mental health counseling, and professor’s understanding. Unique needs for support services were revealed in relation to students’ academic rank and employment status. This study provides practical implications for rehabilitation counselors, disability support programs in higher education, and student affairs practitioners to promote a positive college experience for students with disabilities.
Introduction: Imagery of blackness and colonial fantasies in Central and Eastern European modernism
Authors: Kantoříková Jana
Published: February 2025

The introduction addresses the broader context of the research topic, presents the state of the art and outlines the objectives and sources of the special issue. Its articles examine literary, artistic and scientific representations of race and the Other, analysing the way Central and Eastern European societies have adopted, adapted or subverted colonial ideas. As a whole, the volume offers interdisciplinary insights into how imagery of blackness and colonial fantasies shaped identities in Central and Eastern Europe, revealing the complexities of modernity, colonialism and racial constructs.
Promoting Mis/Disinformation Literacy Among Adults: A Scoping Review of Interventions and Recommendations
Authors: Boler Megan , Gharib Hoda , Kweon Yoon-Ji , Trigiani Amanda , Perry Barbara
Published: February 2025

This scoping review contributes an overview of recent research on effective media literacy interventions and recommendations relevant to cultivating critical mis/disinformation literacies for adults. The review examines articles published between 1 January 2016–22 November 2021 that report on or provide recommendations for media literacy interventions for adults suited to the emerging challenges of disinformation. Our findings reveal diverse intervention formats and evaluation methods including course-, web-, or game-based interventions, public events, and visual resources. Experts recommended teaching about emotion targeting and regulation, algorithmic governance, lateral reading, visual technology, and using interactive formats. Studies of evaluated interventions outside of formal education were scarce. Our review reveals significant debates around the usefulness of checklists and how to address politically sensitive issues, skepticism, and authority in programing. Future research and programing must attend to the needs of adult populations outside of formal education, and draw particularly upon librarians’ integral role in delivering community-based mis/disinformation literacy programing.
Mitigating Nephrotoxicity Risks and Ranking Drug Candidates Using MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging: A Case Study
Authors: Chen Bingming , LaFranco-Scheuch Lisa , Dong Shuzhi , Hernandez Lorraine D. , Mei Hong , Zhong Wendy , Cancilla Mark T. , Vavrek Marissa , Ehrhart Juliann , Forest Thomas , Tao Yu , Liang Yingkai , Tsuchiya Takayuki , Leithead Andrew , Ma Bennett
Published: February 2025

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is a major challenge in drug discovery and development, accounting for nearly a quarter of severe adverse effects in current pharmacotherapy. Antimicrobial use may be associated with this problem, with one-third of nephrotoxicity related to these drugs. During the lead optimization stage of our antibacterial programs, nephrotoxicity was observed with renal tubule degeneration and tubular granular casts. To examine the nephrotoxicity mechanisms and triage compounds, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) was used to investigate the compound distribution in rat kidney sections. MALDI-MSI has emerged as a powerful tool allowing for the spatial localization of drugs and metabolites directly from tissue surfaces without the need for labels. By comparing the renal distribution of toxic and non-toxic compounds, a correlation of preferential renal cortex and outer-medullar distribution with positive in vivo nephrotoxicity was discovered for most of the drug candidates being tested. This correlation facilitated the ranking of compounds to aid in the lead optimization process of antimicrobial drug discovery. We envision that MALDI-MSI can be used for drug-induced nephrotoxicity derisking during drug discovery and development when a correlation between tissue distribution and nephrotoxicity can be established.
A multiperspectival approach to democratic theory: Five lessons for democratic innovations
Authors: Asenbaum Hans
Published: February 2025

Deliberative democratic theory and the practice of deliberative minipublics currently hold a dominant position within the study of democratic innovations. This one-dimensional view inhibits learning from other perspectives in democratic theory. Responding to the post-model debate in democratic theory, the article argues for a multiperspectival approach that combines the normative grounding provided by models with diversity and innovation. Through the multiperspectival approach, the article presents five lessons for democratic innovations. By engaging with conceptions of democratic space in participatory, deliberative, agonistic, feminist, and transformative democratic theory, it argues that democratic innovations need to be (1) grounded, (2) connected, (3) agonised, (4) embodied, and (5) politicised. Drawing on empirical studies, it translates these five lessons into concrete recommendations for designers of democratic innovations.
Preoperative digital design in artificial total hip arthroplasty for patients with Crowe type III and IV developmental dysplasia of the hip: A case series
Authors: Zheng Jinxin , Chen Wei , Xiu Yancheng , Guo Shuzhang
Published: February 2025

Successful complete artificial total hip arthroplasty for patients with Crowe type III or IV developmental dysplasia of the hip is challenging in clinical practice. This study aimed to explore the accuracy and effectiveness of preoperative digital design for patients with Crowe type III or IV developmental dysplasia of the hip. This case series study included patients with osteoarthritis secondary to developmental dysplasia of the hip who did not respond to conservative treatment and subsequently required total hip arthroplasty in Tianjin Third Central Hospital between January 2018 and February 2020. A total of 20 patients (5 males and 15 females) were enrolled, of whom 12 presented with Crowe type III and 8 with Crowe type IV developmental dysplasia of the hip. Total hip arthroplasty for each patient was successful. The implanted acetabular cups were one size (2 mm) smaller than the preoperatively designed size in four patients, and the implanted femoral stem prosthesis was one size (1 mm) larger than the preoperatively designed size in four patients with type IV DDH. The Harris scores differed significantly between preoperative and postoperative measurements (58.6 vs. 94.4; P = 0.016). No infection or joint dislocation was observed. Preoperative digital modeling may be used to predict the size of prosthesis required and location for implantation in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty.
Towards a better registration of neuroendocrine neoplasms: The results of the Italian retrospective population-based study
Authors: Trama Annalisa , Cuccaro Francesco , Damiani Domenico , Bernasconi Alice , Panzuto Francesco , Fazio Nicola , Carone Simona , Burgio Lo Monaco Maria Giovanna , Bruni Rossella , Caldarella Adele , Roselli Annalisa , Cortini Barbara , Amodio Rosalba , Mazzucco Walter , Leite Silvia , Lupi Chiara , Baracco Maddalena , Carpin Eva , Dal Cin Antonella , Fiore Annarita , Memo Laura , Guzzinati Stefano , Torrisi Antonietta Alfia Maria , Torrisi Antonina , Ferrante Margherita , Pesce Maria Teresa , Sessa Alessandra , Minichino Antonietta , Pascale Nadia Di , Vitale Maria Francesca , Fusco Mario , Girolami Ilaria , Milione Massimo , Stracci Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

Background:

The increasing incidence, rapidly evolving classification, rarity and heterogeneity of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) pose challenges to NEN registration including difficulty in distinguishing neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) and neuroendocrine tumours (NETs). Thus, in Italy a higher NEC incidence was reported. Focusing on gastroenteropancreatic (GEP) NEN, we aimed to review GEP NEN, and in particular cases of neuroendocrine carcinoma, not otherwise specified (NOS) and estimate the incidence of NEN, NET and NEC of the GEP.

Methods

We launched a pilot study examining cases of neuroendocrine carcinomas NOS (ICD-O3 code 8246) of GEP incidents in the years 2012-2020. Cancer registries (CRs) reviewed information included in the pathology report regarding differentiation and tumour cells proliferation to decide whether to confirm the case as neuroendocrine carcinoma NOS or register it as NET or NEC. After the review, we estimated the GEP NEN, NET and NEC incidence.

Results:

Nine CRs contributed to the pilot study. After review, in all CRs, only 31% of GEP NOS neuroendocrine carcinomas were confirmed; 50% were recoded as NETs, and approximately 17% of cases were non-NENs. The IR of GEP NENs was 2.99/100,000, and the incidence of NETs was higher than that of NECs.

Conclusion:

After the review, the incidence of GEP NEN, NET and NEC in the eight Italian CRs involved was comparable to that reported in other European countries.

Impact:

Our results confirmed that heterogeneity of cancer registries in the registration of NEN requires collaborative work to define and promote a standard definition to be extended to all Italian registries.
Associations between vascular endothelial growth factor polymorphisms and response to 5-FU-based pharmaceutical therapy in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: A meta-analysis
Authors: Li Yonghui , Guo Qiang , Wang Haibo , Wang Ruiyao , Kang WenLi , Zhang Cheng Long , zhang Duo , Xiao Kuo , Sun ZhenQing
Published: February 2025

Background and aims:

Vascular endothelial growth factor ( VEGF) gene polymorphisms are associated with the response to pharmaceutical therapy in many cancers. This study aimed to investigate the effects of VEGF gene polymorphisms in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients receiving pharmaceutical therapy.

Methods:

This literature-based meta-analysis was performed with keywords related to VEGF gene polymorphisms and clinical response in esophageal squamous carcinoma patients receiving pharmaceutical therapy (including 5-FU, cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and calcium folinate). After a series of bias grading analyses and DerSimonian–Laird method analysis, odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to examine the potential relationships. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were subsequently performed to determine the major causes of heterogeneity.

Results:

Heterogeneity was dramatically reduced after the removal of one study from the analysis ( I2 = 37%, P = 0.19). The remaining studies involved 5-FU-based treatment. The presence of VEGF G-1154A and VEGF-634C/G was found to be correlated with patient response to 5-FU/CDDP-based treatment, whereas VEGF -2549I/D was correlated with response to 5-FU/oxaliplatin-based treatment, and VEGF-936C/T was associated with both 5-FU/CDDP- and 5-FU/oxaliplatin-based treatment response.

Conclusion:

VEGF gene polymorphisms affect the response of esophageal squamous carcinoma patients receiving pharmaceutical therapy, especially 5-FU-based treatments.
Parent-Child Conversations About Inequality: Perpetuating or Disrupting an Inequitable Status Quo
Authors: McLean Kate C. , Froese Raihl Lily , LaFever Breezy , Park Alex , Williams Quinn M. , Gonzalez Antonya M.
Published: February 2025

Recent calls have urged developmental scientists to consider how basic developmental processes are at play in upholding or disrupting systemic and structural inequality in the United States. The present study examined the intergenerational transmission of ideologies used to discuss systemic and structural inequality, and how ideologies that deny or explain inequality can be perpetuated or disrupted through developmental processes, in this case parent-child conversations about race and wealth inequality. Participant dyads ( n = 16), consisting of primarily white and middle-class parents and their middle-school-aged child responded to individual surveys that included data on race and wealth inequality, followed by a conversation about the data, and then a “playback interview” to discuss the conversation with a research assistant. Using a qualitative thematic content analysis, we examined how interactions either reinforced ideologies that upheld an inequitable status quo (e.g., color-evasive) or disrupted such ideologies (e.g., resisting racial stereotypes). Results describe the ways that parents and children can perpetuate or disrupt an inequitable status quo, in both direct and indirect ways, how lived experiences informs these processes, and where levers for changing inequitable systems and structures might exist within the family.
Tolerance-cost optimization for multi-cabin spacecraft assembly considering form errors
Authors: Yang Jiangxin , Wu Chengjin , Shao Nan , Cao Yanlong , Anwer Nabil , Cao Yanpeng
Published: February 2025

Tolerance-cost optimization plays an important role in trade-off between deviation reduction and manufacturing cost. However, very few studies focus on the assembly accuracy of the cabin using a more efficient tolerance allocation considering both quality and cost issues. Therefore, this paper proposes a tolerance-cost optimization method for multi-cabin assembly of spacecrafts based on the cloud model based genetic algorithm (CGA). To improve the accuracy of tolerance analysis, a comprehensive assembly accuracy analysis method is used, composed of tolerance representation and propagation. For tolerance representation, skin model shape and small displacement torsor theory are used to respectively represent the form and position errors. For tolerance propagation, the integrated Jacobian-skin model shapes model is used to compute the accumulative results of deviation. Simulation results demonstrate the capability of the proposed method to predict the assembly accuracy of cabins with non-ideal surfaces. To improve the efficiency of the optimization, CGA is utilized as an optimization technique. Compared with traditional optimization methods, simulation analysis shows superior performance of parameter optimization in the problem of tolerance-cost optimization of multi-cabin spacecraft.
Influence of Silicon Steel Laminating Material on vibrational and electromagnetic characteristics of switched reluctance motor configurations—A detailed investigation
Authors: Maripandi Karthika , Mahadevan Balaji , Sehar Fantin Irudaya Raj Edward
Published: February 2025

The current work aims to investigate the influence of laminating materials on the vibrational and electromagnetic characteristics of 12/8 (three-phase) and 12/10 (six-phase) Switched Reluctance Motor (SRM) configurations developed for electric three-wheeler applications. The present study systematically evaluates how variations in silicon steel laminate impact key performance metrics of SRM, including magnetic flux density, torque ripple and vibration profiles. Utilizing the finite element analysis software package—Siemens Motor Solve and ANSYS mechanical workbench, the electromagnetic and vibrational studies of the proposed motors were carried out. Findings reveal that M19 electrical steel laminating material can significantly enhance electromagnetic efficiency while minimizing vibrational disturbances. In addition, the results indicate that the 12/10 SRM configuration performs better than the 12/8 SRM configuration for electric three-wheeler applications. The results offer valuable insights for designing and manufacturing high-performance SRMs with potential applications in the automobile sector.
Computational study on the effect of thermal deformation of myocardium on lesion formation during radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Niu Pei Xin , Wang Xiang Xiang , Shen Jing Jin , Jin Xiao Xiao , Zhou Zhen Yu
Published: February 2025

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation treats cardiac diseases by inducing thermal lesion of cardiac tissues through radiofrequency energy operating at around 500 kHz. The electromagnetic wavelength is significantly longer than the size of the radiofrequency active electrode, the tissue is heated through resistive heating. During thermal ablation, the coupled thermo-mechanical property of cardiac tissue influencing the contact area between the electrode and tissue plays a crucial role in the formation of thermal lesions, yet the literature often overlooks the effect of thermal deformation. This paper proposes a thermo-hyperelastic constitutive model for myocardium that models thermal contraction and expansion during ablation. Furthermore, a finite element model was established to investigate the effect of the electro-thermo-mechanical coupling property of myocardium on lesion formation under different contact forces. To ensure convergence, we solved the fully coupled electro-thermo-mechanical finite element model using the segregated step method. The computational results demonstrate that thermal deformation, which causes an expansion in the tissue-electrode contact area, increases lesion width and volume, while its influence on lesion depth is negligible. Specifically, after a 30-s ablation under contact forces of 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 N, the lesion volume increased from 4.53, 7.66, and 10.62 mm3 (without thermo-mechanical coupling) to 5.36, 8.33, and 13.34 mm3 (with thermo-mechanical coupling), respectively. Similarly, the lesion width increased from 2.68, 3.12, and 3.44 mm to 2.78, 3.22, and 3.62 mm. Moreover, both thermal deformation and contact force exert a minimal effect on lesion formation time.
Clinical characteristics of probable vestibular migraine
Authors: Fujimoto Chisato , Ogata Naoko , Koda Kento , Ichijo Kentaro , Oka Mineko , Kinoshita Makoto , Kondo Kenji
Published: February 2025

Background

The International Classification of Vestibular Disorders defines probable vestibular migraine (PVM) as an episodic vestibular disorder with either a history of migraine (criterion B) or migraine features during vestibular episodes (criterion C).

Objective

The purpose of this study is to investigate the clinical characteristics of PVM, focusing on items in the diagnostic criteria.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 30 consecutive PVM patients diagnosed according to the Barany classification. The PVM patients were divided into two groups: those who fulfilled the criterion B (pre-existing migraine group) and those who fulfilled the criterion C (migraine features group).

Results

Twenty-four patients (80%) were in the pre-existing migraine group and the remaining 6 patients (20%) were in the migraine features group. All patients in the migraine features group had headache episodes. There were no significant differences between the two groups with regard to prevalence of migraine features listed in the criterion C and abnormal testing results.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of PVM was based on a history of migraine in most patients and on migraine features during vestibular episodes only in a few. All patients with migraine features during vestibular episodes had also headache episodes.
Multilevel Model of Factors Influencing Foster Care Decision-Making
Authors: Holbrook Hannah , Strolin-Goltzman Jessica
Published: February 2025

The current study aims to use the decision-making ecology (DME) to understand what decision-making factors influence state child welfare and foster care entry rates. We conducted a multilevel logistic regression model with 4,473 children from a rural northeastern state to understand the DME. Significant child-level predictors of foster care entry were having an unsafe determination on the Structured Decision-Making (SDM)® safety assessment, high SDM risk score, neglect, physical abuse, and child age below 5 years. In addition to safety considerations, community poverty and caseworker orientation toward child removal were all significant predictors of foster care. The study uncovered contextual system-level factors contributing to foster care placement that are policy malleable and, if addressed, could improve family preservation and prevent out-of-home placement.
A Scoping Review of Acculturation Challenges of Immigrants From the Former Soviet Union in the United States From a Life Course Perspective
Authors: Childress Saltanat , Shrestha Nibedita , Russ Shirley , Berge Jerica , Lewin Amy , Roy Kevin , Perez-Brena Norma , Feinberg Mark , Halfon Neal
Published: February 2025

The United States is home to over a million former Soviet Union (FSU) immigrants, yet literature on their familial dynamics and mental health and well-being is scarce. Following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, this scoping review synthesizes literature since 1990 about FSU immigrants’ acculturation and well-being across 10 databases. The scoping review included 39 studies. The selected articles revealed three themes: (a) maintaining cultural and ethnic identity across generations during acculturation, (b) generational differences in navigating acculturation challenges, and (c) mental health challenges among FSU immigrants. Differences in managing immigration and acculturation events were noted across generations and genders. FSU immigrants face unique acculturation challenges. Future research should explore gender-based violence, mental health, relationship between economic progress and acculturative stress, and more comprehensive adaptation strategies to improve their socioeconomic, emotional, and relational well-being.
Retrospective Analysis of Tacrolimus Levels: The First 56 Days Following Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Kovalenko Kateryna , Bubalo Joseph , Saultz Jennifer , Malla Pavani
Published: February 2025

Background:

Despite prophylaxis, acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) occurs in up to 40% to 60% of patients undergoing an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). Tacrolimus remains a common GVHD prophylactic medication used in combination with mycophenolate or methotrexate.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to compare tacrolimus levels up to day +56 to clinical outcomes in patients who underwent alloHSCT.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of adult patients who underwent alloHSCT between January 2009 and April 2019 at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) Hospital. A logistic regression analysis was performed using SAS software to evaluate the association between tacrolimus concentration range and the GVHD grade outcome.

Results:

There were 295 patients included in the study. The median patient age was 53 years (range 18-72), the majority were males (55%), with a median comorbidity index of 2 (range 0-9). Most patients received peripheral blood stem cell transplant (95%). The median tacrolimus levels were divided into 4 groups: (1) between 3.8 and 4.9 ng/mL, (2) 5.0 and 7.9 ng/mL, (3) 8.0 and 9.9 ng/mL, and (4) 10.0 and 10.7 ng/mL in 8 (2.7%), 206 (69.8%), 71 (24.1%), and 10 (3.4%) of patients, respectively. The odds ratio of 0.193 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.045-0.836) suggested that patients in the tacrolimus 8 to 12 ng/mL range were approximately 80.5% less likely to have grade 3 to 4 aGVHD compared to those in the 5 to 8 ng/mL range.

Conclusion and Relevance:

Overall, we found that higher levels of tacrolimus (range 8-12 ng/mL) in the first 8 weeks post-transplant were associated with improved outcomes without increased rate of relapse.