bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stigma of Losing an Only Child: Implications for Public Perceptions of Bereavement Adversities and Prosocial Tendencies in China
Authors: Li Jinfeng , Huo Meng , Gao Lin , Wang Dahua
Published: November 2024

Given the one-child policy (1979–2016), many bereaved parents (mean age ˃ 60 years) in China have lost their only child. Yet, the social environment in which these parents continue their lives is little known. The current study drew on data from 2029 Chinese adults ( Mage = 36.62 years, SDage = 10.06, range = 18–71) who anonymously completed questionnaires about their negative attitudes towards the bereaved parents (i.e., stigma of losing an only child), perceptions of adversities faced by these parents, and prosocial tendencies (willingness to provide personal help and expectations for government support). In total, 44% of the participants held moderate to high levels of stigma of losing an only child. Participants with greater stigma reported fewer adversities faced by the bereaved parents and they were less likely to agree that the government should provide resources. Moreover, perceptions of adversities mediated the negative association between public stigma and expectations for governmental support. This study advances our understanding of the unwelcoming environment in which the vulnerable population of parents who have lost their only child live by innovatively revealing perspectives from the public.
Promoters and Barriers of Vaccine Hesitancy
Authors: Duradoni Mirko , Tosti Anna Enrica , Colombini Giulia , Masti Federica , Licata Alessio Luciano , Zanobini Patrizio , Materassi Letizia , Guazzini Andrea
Published: November 2024

This systematic review explores the psychological antecedents of Vaccine Hesitancy, a significant determinant of vaccination behavior. Following PRISMA guidelines, an extensive search was conducted starting from 1673 papers and resulting in 48 publications from various databases. The review identifies psychological factors, specifically cognitive, personality, experiential, and social factors contributing to hesitancy. Cognitive factors include health literacy, conspiracy beliefs, trust, and perceived risk. Personality traits such as extraversion, openness, and psychological capital impact hesitancy, while psychopathy increases it. Personal experiences, like perceived stress and racial discrimination, indirectly affect hesitancy. Social factors, including social relationships and norms, play a significant role in reducing hesitancy. Tailored interventions addressing these factors can enhance vaccine acceptance.
Diagnostic value and application prospect of tumor abnormal protein test in head and neck tumors
Authors: Tang Linghao , Wang Minjun , Shi Lin
Published: November 2024

Tumor abnormal protein (TAP) test also called abnormal glycoprotein chain test assesses the level of abnormal glycosylation in the body by measuring the agglutination of 10 different agglutinins, including wheat germ agglutinin, cuttle bean agglutinin, and so on. The lectins are proteins containing one or more binding sites with a strong affinity for particular carbohydrate chains that can specifically identify and bind to abnormal glycan molecules on malignant cells. It has been widely used clinically in recent years for the early diagnosis of tumourigenesis. Numerous studies have been conducted to investigate the mechanisms by which lectins bind to a set of glycans. As the incidence of head and neck cancer is high, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common type. The lack of highly specific and sensitive tests makes early screening difficult, and treatment is often delayed, resulting in organ loss or even death, and often has a negative psychological impact. This narrative review will analyze the principle and current status of clinical application of TAP detection to prove TAP test will offer more sensitive methods for the precancerous risk assessment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, as well as for tracking metastases and recurrence.
Comparing countries, exporting classifications, surpassing methodological nationalism: Class, gender, and education gaps in and between France and Portugal
Authors: Siblot Yasmine , Hugrée Cédric , Pereira Virgílio Borges
Published: November 2024

The ‘globalization turn’ in the sociology of class has led to the resurgence of studies comparing social classes in Europe over the past 20 years and to question the methodological nationalism of the class analysis. But it has also paid little attention to the selection of the most appropriate empirical tools for quantifying class in a comparative approach. This article explores the links between occupations, class structures, and countries by applying the French and the Portuguese occupational classifications to both countries. France and Portugal are an especially suitable pairing for comparative study because social class and inequalities are central to sociological research in both countries, and their divergent intellectual histories produced different tools for quantifying social stratification. The Portuguese classification, which attaches great importance to the ownership of capital, helps to understand the diversity of the class position of the self-employed and the structure of the economic elites. The French classification, based on employment status and qualifications, highlights the role of diplomas and the public/private divide. Ultimately, the Portuguese social structure appears to be more polarized than the French one. This cross-national and cross-classification comparison brings to light features of the social structures of the two countries and the contrasts between them that would have remained a blind spot if we had used an international classification. Paradoxically, these national classifications help to overcome methodological nationalism and ethnocentrism.
Assessment of Competencies and Ability to Care for the General Population: Design and Validation of the Spanish COMCAPCARE Scale
Authors: Espadas-Calzado Elena , Esteban-Burgos Ana Alejandra , Capilla-Díaz Concepción , Puente-Fernández Daniel , Martí-García Celia , Montoya-Juárez Rafael
Published: November 2024

Background:

As the population ages, the demand for social and health systems grows, especially due to chronic diseases and dependency. Informal caregivers, particularly women, face significant burdens including physical, emotional, and financial strain. Current caregiving assessment tools focus on those already in caregiving roles or health professionals, with no tools for the general population without prior caregiving experience.

Purpose:

This study aimed to develop and validate the Spanish COMCAPCARE scale, which assesses the skills and abilities necessary to care for dependent individuals, including those nearing the end of life, among individuals without prior caregiving experience.

Methods:

A scale validation study was conducted. A Delphi panel of 13 experts developed an 18-item scale, which was administered to 253 participants over the age of 18 who had not previously served as primary caregivers. Main measurements were psychometric analyses, including principal components analysis (PCA) and reliability testing using Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient. Correlation with a single-item self-assessment of caregiving competence was verified through Spearman’s rho.

Results:

A total of 253 participants (73.9% women) with a mean age of 33 years (SD 13.7) participated. The scale identified 3 factors: financial and work situation (4 items), adaptability (8 items), and care and communication (6 items). The total scale demonstrated high reliability (α = 0.84) and significant correlations between the scale’s total score and a single-item self-assessment of caregiving competence ( r = 0.693, P < .001).

Conclusions:

The Spanish COMCAPCARE scale provides a reliable and valid tool for assessing caregiving competencies in the general population without caregiving experience.
Book review: Romila Thapar, Our History, Their History, Whose History?
Authors: Jyotasana
Published: November 2024

Romila Thapar, Our History, Their History, Whose History? (Kolkata: Seagull Books, 2023), vii + 164 pp.
Book review: Farhat Hasan, Paper, Performance, and the State: Social Change and Political Culture in Mughal India
Authors: Saghar Amol
Published: November 2024

Farhat Hasan, Paper, Performance, and the State: Social Change and Political Culture in Mughal India (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2021), xi + 155 pp.
Chloride ion and polyethylene glycol: Improving the microstructure and enhancing the mechanics of electrolytic copper foil
Authors: Yin Xin , Wang Ximi , Zhang Jiayi , Xu Hongbiao , Li Xianyang
Published: November 2024

This study examines the effects of chloride ions (Cl−) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the properties of ultra-thin electrolytic copper foils. By varying the concentrations of Cl− and PEG, we investigated changes in surface morphology, mechanical properties, and microstructure using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nanoindentation tests, X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Our findings show that increasing Cl− concentration generally leads to smoother and more uniform surface morphologies. An optimal combination of 30 mg/L Cl− and 5 mg/L PEG resulted in a notably smooth and flat copper surface. Mechanical testing demonstrated significant enhancements in both Young's modulus and hardness at these additive concentrations. XRD and EBSD analyses indicated a favorable shift in the crystallographic orientation of the copper grains, promoting more uniform grain growth. TEM analysis underscored the role of nano-twins and dislocations in strengthening the material. These results suggest that a precise balance of Cl− and PEG in the electrolyte can improve the quality and performance of ultra-thin copper foils, providing a basis for further optimization in industrial applications.
Non-invasive cerebral autoregulation monitoring during paediatric cardiac surgery without cardiopulmonary bypass requiring intraoperative cross-clamping of one of the carotid arteries
Authors: Berger Rafal , Ewert Sebastian , Sandoval Boburg Rodrigo , Neunhoeffer Felix , Magunia Harry , Lescan Mario , Schlensak Christian , Mustafi Migdat
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Neurologic complications remain one of the major risks after pediatric cardiac surgery. Cerebral autoregulation (CA) is a physiologic mechanism regulating cerebral perfusion. A dynamic intraoperative evaluation can possibly detect the impairment of the cerebral regulatory function during surgery. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the utility of dynamic cerebral blood perfusion monitoring using cerebral oxygenation index (COx) as CA parameter during pediatric cardiac surgery without cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) requiring intraoperative cross-clamping of one carotid artery to perform the procedure.

Materials and methods

Prospective intraoperative autoregulation monitoring was performed in 14 children under the age of 1 year requiring elective cardiac surgery with intraoperative cross-clamping of one of carotid artery. Procedures requiring the use of CPB and redo surgeries were excluded.

Results

Impaired CA could be measured during 33.8% of cross-clamping time on the ipsilateral side and 30.1% on the contralateral side. The difference in COx was not significant before ( p = 0.7), during ( p = 0.29) and after cross clamping ( p = 0.63), but a significant difference in COx levels throughout the entire cohort was noted individually. The mean ABP during normal (COx <0.4) CA was 61.8 mmHg (95% CI 60.7 – 62.9) and 62.9 mmHg (95% CI 61.9 – 63.9) for cross clamped and opposite side. During impaired (COx >0.4) CA the ABP values were 58.9 mmHg (95% CI 57.7 – 60.1, p < 0.05) and 56 mmHg (95% CI 54.8 – 57.3, p < 0.05) respectively.

Conclusions

A dynamic intraoperative monitoring of CA during pediatric cardiac surgery is possible and allows to confirm the impairment of autoregulation during cross-clamping of one of the carotid arteries.
Linear-time quasi-static stability detection for modular self-reconfigurable robots
Authors: Wu Di , Liang Guanqi , Tu Yuxiao , Zong Lijun , Lam Tin Lun
Published: November 2024

We address the problem of detecting potential instability in the planned motion of modular self-reconfigurable robots. Previous research primarily focused on determining the system’s unique physical state but overlooked the mutual compensation effects of connection constraints. We introduce a linear-time quasi-static stability detection method for modular self-reconfigurable robots. The internal connections, non-connected contacts, and environmental contacts are considered, and the problem is modeled as a second-order cone program problem, whose solving time linearly increases with the number of modules. We aim to determine the critical stable state of the system and that is achieved by finding the required minimum characteristic connection strength. By analyzing the critical stable state, we can assess the system’s stability and identify potential broken connection points. Furthermore, the internal stability margin is defined to evaluate the configuration’s stability level. The suspension and object manipulation configurations are first demonstrated in simulation to analyze the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. Subsequently, a series of physical experiments based on FreeSN were carried out. The calculated stable motion ranges of manipulator configurations are highly consistent with the actual sampling boundaries. Moreover, the proposed algorithm successfully predicts stability and identifies broken connections in diverse configurations, encompassing quadruped and closed-chain configurations on both even and uneven terrains. The load experiment further demonstrates that the impacts from unmodeled factors and input errors under normal conditions can be on a small scale. By combining the proposed detection method and stability margin, we open the door to realizing real-time motion planning on modular self-reconfigurable robots.
Exploring the multifaceted characteristics of aura in migraine: A multicenter, cross-sectional study
Authors: Dalla Volta Giorgio , Russo Antonio , Silvestro Marcello , Ornello Raffaele , Caponnetto Valeria , Sacco Simona , Zavarise Paola , Cortinovis Matteo , Lo Castro Flavia , Guerzoni Simona , Prudenzano Maria Pia , Gentile Martino , De Icco Roberto , Vaghi Gloria , Tassorelli Cristina , De Tommaso Marina , Scannicchio Stefania , Rainero Innocenzo , Granato Antonio , Sepe Federica Nicoletta , Ferrandi Delfina , Rebecchi Valentina , Alessandri Massimo , Burgalassi Andrea , Romozzi Marina , Casalena Alfonsina , Chiarugi Alberto , Geppetti Pierangelo , Iannone Luigi Francesco
Published: November 2024

Background

Migraine with aura (MwA) is a debilitating disorder characterized by paroxysmal attacks of pain preceded or accompanied by reversible neurological symptoms. While the pathophysiology remains unclear, trigeminovascular system activation and cortical spreading depression have been implicated. This study aims to comprehensively investigate and characterize the diverse clinical features and manifestations of aura, as well as the types of acute medications self-administered for aura management.

Methods

A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Italian Headache Registry (RICe). Aura characteristics, frequency, duration and associated migraine premonitory symptoms were collected. Acute medication use and timing (headache or aura phase) were assessed.

Results

The study included 272 patients with a diagnosis of MwA. Most patients (99.3%) experienced typical aura symptoms, with visual aura (96.3%) being the most prevalent, followed by sensory (33.0%) and speech and/or language aura (25.6%). Brainstem aura (8.5%) and motor aura (1.8%) were less common. Notably, 13.0% of patients reported aura relapses within 24 hours. Triptans (39.7%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (47.8%) and nutraceuticals (59.9%) were commonly used for acute aura management.

Conclusions

This study reports several different aura manifestations, highlighting atypical features, aura relapse rates and treatment approaches for aura. These findings could contribute to a deeper understanding of aura and its management in clinical settings.
Axial compressive properties of GFRP-reinforced PVC-based glued wood-plastic composites column
Authors: Xu Xinyue , Wang Kun , Huo Ruili , Fang Hai , Li Jile
Published: November 2024

Wood-plastic composites (WPCs) are environment-friendly materials, which are always used in decoration engineering and outdoor engineering. However, WPCs cannot be directly used as bearing structural members especially columns for their poor tensile and compressive properties and great creep under long-term loading. This study presented an innovative approach of using glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) to reinforce PVC-based glued WPCs short columns. Three effective reinforcement methods were proposed: embedding GFRP bars, wrapping GFRP sheets around the outer surface, and GFRP bars and sheets compound reinforcement. Axial compression tests were conducted to evaluate the load-bearing capacity and deformability of the columns. The results showed that the outer GFRP sheets effectively inhibited the cracking of adhesive layers, leading to a remarkable enhancement in ductility and stiffness of the WPCs columns. Moreover, the ultimate bearing capacity of GFRP bars/sheets compound reinforced columns increased by over 140%. Finite element (FE) analysis was employed to investigate the influence of GFRP reinforcement methods, aiming to obtain the optimal design solution of WPCs columns. A theoretical formula was established to calculate the axial compressive capacity of GFRP-reinforced WPCs columns, and its accuracy was validated through experimental tests and FE modeling.
Females’ Engagement in Offline and Online Sexual Offending and Their Interactions With the Criminal Justice System: A Gender and Age Comparison
Authors: Hull Isabelle , Christensen Larissa S. , McKillop Nadine , Rayment-McHugh Susan
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to extend limited extant knowledge of female-perpetrated sexual offenses, including child sexual abuse material (CSAM) offenses, that enter the criminal justice system. Sexual offenses actioned by the police in one jurisdiction of Australia between 1 January 2012 and 30 June 2021 ( N = 37,864) were analyzed to explore the prevalence of sexual offenses and types of sexual offenses perpetrated; the relationship between perpetrator gender, age, and offense type; and the relationship between perpetrator gender, age, offense type, and likelihood of law enforcement action ( N = 34,835). Consistent with previous research, (predominantly adult) males were responsible for most sexual offenses before police. Females were responsible for 12.2% of all offenses over this period, with juvenile females (10–17 years) implicated in a significant proportion (10.2%) of all offenses. In fact, juvenile females were responsible for the majority of assaultive CSAM offenses, whereas juvenile males mostly perpetrated offline child sexual abuse offenses. Regarding adults, there was a minimal, statistically significant difference between gender and offense type. Odds of perpetrating an online assaultive CSAM offense were 20 times higher for juvenile females compared to both adult males and adult females, and 7.69 times higher for juvenile females compared to juvenile males. Finally, for the same offense type, gender and age differentially impacted law enforcement action. For all offense types, enforcement and gravity (e.g., arrest and referral to court) of further action, were significantly lower among all females and juvenile males compared to adult males. Juvenile females were least likely to have any serious action taken. These findings provide a seminal platform from which to expand much-needed research on female-perpetrated offending to inform policy and practice.
Electronic Monitoring of Mom’s Schedule (eMOMS™): A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial Targeting Postpartum Weight Retention and Breastfeeding Duration Among Populations With Overweight/Obesity
Authors: Jacobson Lisette T. , Befort Christie , Okut Hayrettin , Zackula Rosey , Dowling Jolynn , Stern Judy E. , Robbins David C. , Wolfe Michael D. , Kluding Patricia , Grainger David A.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Globally, rising trends in gestational diabetes and body mass index contribute to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Lifestyle modifications and breastfeeding may reverse this effect, although few studies combine these into one intervention.

Research Aims:

To measure postpartum weight retention, breastfeeding duration, hemoglobin A1C, and mean arterial blood pressure at 6 months postpartum among women with elevated pre-pregnancy body mass index.

Methods:

The electronic Monitoring of Mom’s Schedule study (eMOMS™) was a feasibility, three-arm, randomized controlled trial modeled after a Diabetes Prevention Program and breastfeeding support. A health coach delivered a 12-month virtual intervention. Study arm results were compared using Wilcoxon signed-ranks exact test reporting from a two-sided test and bootstrapped samples with 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

Between September 2019 and May 2021, 100 individuals were screened, and 35 were randomized: nine to Group 1, 14 to Group 2, and 12 to Group 3. At baseline, participants averaged 13.0 ( SD = 2.5) weeks gestation, with a mean pre-pregnancy body mass index of 29.7 ( SD = 3.0). With 5,000 bootstrapped samples, mean weight retention from baseline to 6 months postpartum was: 4.0 kg, 95% CI [1.6, 6.2] for Group 1; 3.7 kg, CI [-1.8, 9.8] for Group 2; and 7.5 kg, CI [4.1, 11.6] for Group 3. Mean (exclusive) breastfeeding duration was 9.3 weeks, 95% CI [0.43, 26.1]; 9.6 weeks, CI [4.4, 15.7]; and 15.1 weeks, CI [6.5, 23.3] for each group, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our intervention was positively associated with postpartum weight retention and breastfeeding duration. Future research is needed to assess intervention components.
A Live Online Prenatal Educational Model: Association With Exclusive Breastfeeding at Discharge
Authors: Gabhart Julia M. , Wasio Lina N. , U-thaiwat Panupong , Chen Yi W. , Main James
Published: November 2024

Background:

Web-based prenatal education is increasingly employed, but its association with increased breastfeeding and predictors of breastfeeding success is uncertain.

Research Aims:

Our primary aim was to evaluate our live, online intervention’s association with exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge. Secondarily, we aimed to describe participants’ reports of the intervention on predictors of breastfeeding success.

Method:

We used a retrospective quasi-experimental cohort design to assess the association between our intervention and exclusive breastfeeding at discharge. The intervention consisted of an evidence-based live, online, 2-hour class open to all prenatal patients and supporters at our urban community medical center from June 2020 through April 2022. Patient characteristics and breastfeeding rates were extracted from the electronic medical record. Samples were drawn using stratified random sampling. Three logistic regression models were conducted to assess the associations between the intervention and exclusive breastfeeding. Two surveys assessed the participant reports of the intervention.

Results:

Samples of the first model, comprised of 160 participants and 160 non-participants, were similar in important characteristics. Participants were 2.12 times (95% CI [1.12, 3.69]) more likely to exclusively breastfeed. Participants reported positively on the impacts of the intervention on breastfeeding predictors.

Conclusions:

Our live, online intervention was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge. A randomized, prospective examination of the intervention’s association with breastfeeding duration would further define its impact.
Influence of Career Adaptability and Job Control on Decent Work and Occupational Stress in a Sample of Apprentices
Authors: Marcionetti Jenny , Zambelli Camilla , Rossier Jérôme
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to analyze how career adaptability and job control can influence apprentices’ perceptions of their work as being decent and stressful. The participants included 530 Swiss apprentices enrolled in a three-year vocational education training (VET) program. Structural equation modeling showed a positive association between career adaptability and job control and a strong negative association between decent work perception and occupational stress. Career adaptability had a specific positive relationship with decent work perception, whereas job control had a significant relationship with both decent work and occupational stress. Finally, results indicate that decent work could be a possible mediator between career adaptability and occupational stress and between job control and occupational stress. The study suggests that some personal resources and specific work conditions, such as physical and psychological safety and working hours that allow leisure and rest, could help apprentices perceive their work environment as positive and manage occupational stress.
Educational Disparities in Preventable Deaths: Do They Explain the Longevity Gap Between Mexico and Spain?
Authors: Bramajo Octavio , García-Guerrero Víctor M. , Permanyer Iñaki
Published: November 2024

Objective

Determine how preventable causes of death contribute to the life expectancy gap between Mexico and Spain.

Methods

We used a linear integral decomposition to analyze the impact of preventable mortality on life expectancy between ages 30-75 (temporary life expectancy) between Mexico and Spain in 2018. Additionally, we computed cause-deleted life tables to estimate potential gains in temporary life expectancy. Analyses were stratified by educational attainment, sex, and age.

Results

Low-educated Mexicans showed the largest gains in temporary life expectancy from removing preventable deaths (3.4 years for males, 1.6 for females), partially explaining the gap with Spain. Removing these deaths would close the gap almost entirely due to a higher relative decrease for middle- and high-educated individuals.

Discussion

While access to adequate healthcare is crucial for improving population health, appropriate non-medical public policies can significantly reduce mortality disparities between Mexico and Spain, especially for individuals from higher educational backgrounds.
A novel design method for a reconfigurable two-drive cable-driven parallel robot
Authors: Song Da , Lu Ming , Zhao Lei , Sun Zhichao , Wang Haochen , Zhang Lixun
Published: November 2024

Cable-Driven Parallel Robots (CDPRs), with their low inertia and high safety, have become increasingly attractive for pick-and-place manipulations. Yet, for planar movements of CDPRs, excluding suspended varieties, a typical cable-driven parallel robot configuration requires a minimum of three drives to accomplish two degrees of freedom. To address this limitation, this study introduces an innovative reconfigurable design approach for a two-drive CDPR. A unique mechanism is devised in which each cable is substituted by a rotating rod capable of the same movement. This mechanism, when integrated with a cable-driven parallel robot, facilitates two degrees of freedom for planar motions using only two drives, thereby circumventing the consumption of motor torque during tensioning. The design method proposed herein can be applied to reconfigure any planar CDPR configuration. We performed a comprehensive examination of the geometric model of the designed CDPR, including pulley kinematics, and analyzed the CDPR’s structure, kinematics, and dynamics. Our research investigates the workspace of the designed CDPR and compares it to the workspace of traditional CDPRs. Additionally, we contrasted the proposed CDPR with conventional CDPRs using an illustrative example. Lastly, a prototype was constructed, and kinematic trajectory tracking control was successfully implemented, demonstrating its feasibility.
A novel multi-objective robust optimization method based on improved Gray Wolf optimizer and Kriging model
Authors: Zhang Hang , Li Yonghua , Shi Shanshan , Xia Qing , Chai Min
Published: November 2024

A novel multi-objective robust optimization method for mechanical structure products is introduced. Firstly, the method introduces Bernoulli Dynamic Adaptive Gray Wolf Optimizer (BDAGWO) to address inherent limitations within the original Gray Wolf Optimizer (GWO), such as falling into local optimal solutions and low convergence rate. Subsequently, BDAGWO is utilized to search optimal correlation coefficients of Kriging. The proposed surrogate model exhibits high fitting accuracy on different test cases, with coefficients of determination reaching above 0.99 on the test set, and mean relative error, mean absolute error, mean absolute percentage error and root mean squared error are all close to 0. To solve multi-objective optimization problems, an improved NSGA-II is introduced to amplify search capabilities. Then based on robust optimization method, combine BDAGWO-Kriging and improved NSGA-II to establish a multi-objective robust optimization framework with high accuracy and high solution efficiency. The proposed method is implemented to an EMU bogie frame, demonstrating that the robust optimization scheme reduces the maximum equivalent stress and mass, and exhibits lower fluctuation compared to deterministic optimization. This substantiates the method’s effectiveness and provides an optimization approach of large and complex mechanical products.
Energy and exergy analysis of a SI engine fueled with anisole and isobutyl acetate with super-premium gasoline
Authors: Mangave Parag P , Pawar Nilesh D , Patil Ranjit S , Patil Vishal V , Kumar Sudarshan
Published: November 2024

The rising demand for fossil fuels is rapidly depleting the limited sources of crude oil, leading to harmful emissions upon combustion. Consequently, developing sustainable and environment-friendly alternatives to fossil fuels has become imperative to reduce dependence on them and decrease harmful emissions. In this study, the performance of different blends prepared by mixing biofuels with super-premium gasoline (SPG) in a spark-ignition (SI) engine at different speeds is investigated through energy and exergy analysis. Three biofuels, namely ethanol, anisole, and isobutyl acetate, are considered, and these biofuels are blended with the base SPG in volumes ranging from 10% to 30%. Letters G, E, A, and IBA are used to denote SPG, ethanol, anisole, and isobutyl acetate, respectively. Experiments were conducted on a three-cylinder, four-stroke SI engine with varying speeds. The results of different anisole-SPG and isobutyl acetate-SPG blends are compared with SPG and ethanol-SPG blends. The results of the energy and exergy analysis reveal that the maximum brake thermal efficiency (BTE) and exergy efficiency are achieved when the engine runs at 2500 rpm for SPG and different blends. Furthermore, the engine emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) are found to be lowest at this engine speed. It is also investigated that the maximum BTE and exergy efficiency are obtained for AG10 and IBAG10 blends. The maximum BTE of AG10 and IBAG10 are 31.23% and 30.82%, respectively, while the maximum exergy efficiency of AG10 and IBAG10 are 24.37% and 23.82%. At 2500 rpm, the blends AG10 and IBAG10 showed a slight reduction in BTE by 1.72% and 3.02%, respectively, compared to SPG. At the same time, the exergy efficiency of the AG10 and IBAG10 blends is reduced by 1.5% and 3.72%, respectively. On the other hand, the IBAG30 blend showed 7% lower emissions of CO and NOx compared to SPG. Among all the blends, EG30 showed the lowest reduction of HC emissions by 14% compared to SPG. Additionally, the sustainability index values decreased by 0.47% and 1.19% for AG10 and IBAG10, respectively, compared to SPG at 2500 rpm.
Numerical investigation on dimpled target average heat transfer in free-surface water jet impingement and its enhancement effect versus flat plate target
Authors: Mahjoorghani Milad , Kakaee Amirhasan
Published: November 2024

Jet impingement serves as an effective method to enhance heat transfer in diverse industrial applications, utilizing either a separate fluid from the ambient (free-surface jet) or identical fluids (submerged jet). The target surface undergoes distinct thermal processes, featuring zones like the stagnation zone, boundary layer formation, and the transition from laminar to turbulent wall flow. However, heat transfer efficiency diminishes significantly due to pressure gradient changes beyond the stagnation zone, impeding flow and boundary layer development. Addressing this decline through surface modification techniques, such as incorporating spherical dimples, emerges as an innovative approach. This study develops a numerical model via Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations utilizing Volume of Fluid (VOF) modeling for water jet impingement on a flat plate target. The model’s validity is established by comparing hydrodynamic and thermal aspects in both laminar and turbulent scenarios against established experimental data in literature. Nine dimpled target surfaces, featuring diverse dimensional properties and positioning configurations, are examined using this model to explore potential enhancements in heat transfer intensity. The findings indicate a notable increase in the overall surface average Nusselt number, potentially reaching up to 50% by implementing dimples in the current context. Moreover, the study highlights that the radial distribution of dimples and the non-uniform flow path ahead of the incoming fluid, which differs from parallel flat flow, result in varying effects based on dimensional properties. For instance, it has been found that modifying dimensions such as deepening dimples or altering their proximity could yield contrary effects, emphasizing the need for an optimization methodology to determine the most efficient dimpled surface setup within a given geometry.
Comprehensive investigation of microstructure, hardness, and wear behavior in aluminum matrix composite reinforced with TiO2 and WC
Authors: Prathap Singh Sundar , Suresh Kumar Shanmugam , Elil Raja Dhanigaivel , Chattopadhyay Angshuman
Published: November 2024

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of the microstructural characteristics, hardness, and tribological physical characteristics of Aluminum (Al) AA6063 alloy matrix composites strengthened with Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) and Tungsten Carbide (WC) particles. The mono and hybrid Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs) were manufactured via the stir casting manner with 5 wt.% TiO2 and varying wt.% of WC (0% to 1.0%) to study the influence of reinforcement on material properties. The T6 thermal treatment was performed on the MMCs with different ageing temperatures (145 °C, 165 °C, and 185 °C). Vickers hardness testing demonstrated improved hardness with increasing particles, and 165 °C aged hybrid MMC showed higher hardness, which is 37% higher than the as-cast hybrid MMC hardness. The microstructural exploration using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) publicized an even dissemination of reinforcement phases inside the Al matrix. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) observed the occurrence of Al, TiO2, and WC particles. The tribological behavior was evaluated through pin-on-disc testing, showing a reduced Specific Wear Rate (SWR) with higher reinforcement content, and sliding wear impacting wear variables were optimized through the Taguchi technique. The lower load condition showed a mild SWR with an abrasive wear mechanism, highlighting the MMC's potential for wear-resistant applications.
Synergistic effects of boron carbide and eggshell particles on mechanical and tribological properties of ultrasonic-assisted stir cast aluminium alloy based composites
Authors: Singh Vibhu , Kesarwani Soni , Niranjan Mahendra Singh
Published: November 2024

Aluminium matrix composites are in high demand for their lightweight nature and favourable properties, yet issues like high thermal expansion, low microhardness or high cost often challenge them. To address these limitations, the integration of sustainable, cost-effective reinforcing agents that can enhance hardness and wear resistance can be explored, as this can broaden the application scope of these composites across various industries. The present study fabricates aluminium matrix composites with aluminium alloy (AA6063-T6) as a matrix and different wt.% (0%, 2% and 4%) of micro-sized eggshell (ES) and boron carbide (B4C) particles as reinforcements through ultrasonic-assisted stir-casting. Analysis of microstructure, mechanical and tribological properties of the fabricated composites are done and compared to those of the as-cast base alloy. Results from optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), together with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis, revealed the uniform distribution of reinforcements in all three composites. X-ray diffraction (XRD) indicated the formation of several compounds in each composite. Among all, the as-cast base alloy exhibited the lowest porosity at 0.48%. The AA6063-T6/B4C composite demonstrated the highest hardness, with an increase of 46.08%, while the AA6063-T6/ES/B4C composite achieved the highest tensile strength, showing a 62.28% improvement compared to the as-cast base alloy. As the load increased from 20N to 60N, the wear rate of the reinforced composites rises while the coefficient of friction decreased, with the AA6063-T6/B4C composite showing the highest wear resistance.
Optimizing dental composites with nano limestone and tricalcium particulate fillers: A study on physical and mechanical properties
Authors: Saini Sonu , Meena Anoj
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the enhancement of dental composites using nano limestone and tricalcium phosphate fillers. Five composite formulations (TLC0-TLC4) were developed using organic polymers (Bis-GMA, TEGDMA, DMAEMA, CQ) and inorganic fillers. The methodology involved fabricating these composites and evaluating their physical and mechanical properties, including density, water absorption, solubility, polymerization shrinkage, hardness, compressive strength, and surface roughness. Results showed that density and voids increased with filler content, with TLC4 achieving the highest density at 1.39 ± 0.16 g/cm³. Water absorption and solubility increased, while polymerization shrinkage decreased to 0.66 ± 0.05% in TLC4. TLC4 demonstrated the highest hardness (72.8 ± 2.4 H.R.V.), compressive strength (248.41 ± 3.11 MPa), and surface roughness (0.62 ± 0.25 µm). Thermal analysis revealed significant weight loss and decomposition, while Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis provided detailed chemical composition insights. Wear resistance was evaluated through pin-on-disc tests and signal-to-noise ratio analysis, with FE-SEM confirming TLC4's superior performance. VIKOR analysis using the ENTROPY method ranked TLC4 as the most effective composite. This study offers valuable data for selecting and optimizing restorative dental materials.
MG132 inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia via Akt/FOXO3a/Bim pathway
Authors: Fan Zhong , Lin Wen-Hao , Liang Cong , Li Yu , Peng Chun-Jin , Luo Jie-Si , Tang Wen-Yan , Zheng Li-Min , Huang Dan-Ping , Ke Zhi-Yong , Wang Li-Na , Zhang Xiao-Li , Huang Li-Bin
Published: November 2024

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is one of the most common pediatric cancers, characterized by the malignant proliferation of leukemic cells. Despite advancements in treatment, the prognosis for refractory and relapsed ALL remains poor, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic targets and approaches.

Methods

To investigate the anti-leukemic properties of MG132, MTS assays were employed to assess cell viability, and flow cytometry was used to evaluate apoptosis. Mechanistic studies, including qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and lentivirus-mediated FOXO3a knockdown, were conducted to explore MG132’s effects on the Akt/FOXO3a/Bim signaling pathway. A xenograft mouse model was utilized to validate the in vivo efficacy of MG132 in suppressing tumor growth.

Results

MG132 inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in both ALL cell lines and primary cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Mechanistic studies revealed that MG132 promoted FOXO3a nuclear localization by suppressing Akt phosphorylation and preventing FOXO3a degradation, leading to increased Bim expression. Furthermore, FOXO3a knockdown significantly reduced MG132’s anti-proliferative effects. In vivo, MG132 markedly inhibited tumor growth in the xenograft model.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that MG132 exerts potent anti-leukemic effects through modulation of the Akt/FOXO3a/Bim axis, offering a promising therapeutic avenue for treating ALL.
An optimal exact confidence interval for the difference of two independent binomial proportions
Authors: Cao Xingyun , Wang Weizhen , Xie Tianfa
Published: November 2024

The difference between two proportions is the most important parameter in comparing two treatments based on independent two binomials and has garnered widespread application across various fields, particularly in clinical trials. There exists significant interest in devising optimal confidence intervals for the difference. Approximate intervals relying on asymptotic normality may lack reliability, thus calling for enhancements in exact confidence interval construction to bolster reliability and precision. In this paper, we present a novel approach that leverages the most probable test statistic and employs the [Formula: see text]-function method to construct an optimal exact interval for the difference. We juxtapose the proposed interval against other exact intervals established through methodologies such as the Agresti-Min exact unconditional method, the Wang method, the fiducial method, and the hybrid score method. Our comparative analysis, employing the infimum coverage probability and total interval length as evaluation metrics, underscores the uniformly superior performance of the proposed interval. Additionally, we elucidate the application of these exact intervals using two real datasets.
Within and Beyond Transitional Justice Shadows: Rallying Social Movements, Re-sculpting Agendas, Re-centring Historical Injustices
Authors: Kapogianni Vicky , Thorne Benjamin
Published: November 2024

How do processes of contestation and resistance, emerging from the constellation of actors, impact the transitional justice landscape? This article critically explores the dynamic interplay between transitional justice and social movements within the context of continuing historical colonial injustices. Through this critical lens, it seeks to draw attention to both the potential of social movements to poke and push the conventional boundaries of transitional justice, as these movements are not mere bystanders but rather active agents who constantly ‘court’ with transitional justice via purposeful approaches aiming to reshape its contours and challenge its traditional, rigid edges. This article, therefore, argues that social movements play a pivotal role in re-sculpting the transitional justice landscape by amplifying the voices of the marginalised communities and challenging extant hegemonic narratives. By doing so, courting transitional justice through the social movements’ evolving and disruptive vehicles allows for a re-imagination of a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of justice that resonates with the changing needs and values of those re-voiced protagonists and deeply affected societies.
An ‘Elephant Trying to Chase a Rat’: Indian COIN in the Mizo Hills, 1967–1970
Authors: Holt Benjamin
Published: November 2024

Indian COIN operations during the Mizo civil war (1966–1986) are widely believed to have been effective, apparently paving the way for lasting peace. This article refutes this traditional stance. Indian COIN had serious limitations, struggling in an operational sense to conclusively defeat the MNF partly because of its broader inability to secure widespread local support. The peace that has defined the Mizo Hills since 1986 was forged despite Indian COIN in the early stages (1967–1970) of the conflict, as operations hindered the state's chances of military victory and created long-term resentment amongst the civilian population.
Influencing Customers’ Buying Behaviour in E-tail Through Telepresence Evoked by Augmented Reality: The Mediating Role of Usefulness, Ease of Use and Enjoyment
Authors: Kumari Sarita , Rathee Vijay
Published: November 2024

The main aim of this study was to investigate the influence of telepresence on customers’ ‘perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment and perceived ease of use, attitude towards augmented reality and intention’. It also measures the mediating effect of ‘perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment and perceived ease of use’ in influencing the relation between ‘telepresence and attitude’ and ‘telepresence and intention’. The technology acceptance model along with the telepresence concept was used to develop a conceptual framework. Data collection was done using convenience and snowball sampling techniques. Online customers from the Delhi NCR region of India were the targeted respondents and 321 responses were collected to test the hypotheses. Covariance-based structural equation modelling was applied to study the relation between different constructs. Findings showed that the four exogenous constructs ‘telepresence, perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment and perceived ease of use’ have significant influences on two endogenous constructs ‘attitudes towards AR’ and ‘intention’. Mediation results outlined that three mediating constructs ‘perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment and perceived ease of use’ have a significant specific indirect effect. It was a case of complementary partial mediation. The results altogether contribute to AR and sensory marketing literature and help marketers in decision-making.