bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thick branes via higher order field theory models with exponential and power-law tails
Authors: Peyravi Marzieh , Nazifkar Samira , Lobo Francisco S. N. , Javidan Kurosh 
Published: September 2023

AbstractIn this work, we obtain exact thick brane models in $$4+1$$

4
+
1

dimensions generated by higher order field theory kinks, inspired by specific potentials for $$\phi ^{10}$$

ϕ
10

and $$\phi ^{18}$$

ϕ
18

models. We verify that the geodesic equation along the fifth dimension confirms the confining effects of the scalar field on the brane for all of these models. These models provide new solutions with exponential and power-law tails which live in different topological sectors. We show that the resulting branes of specific exponential law models do not possess $$Z_2$$

Z
2

-symmetry. Furthermore, we examine the stability of the thick branes, by determining the sign of the $$w^2$$

w
2

term in the expansion of the potential for the resulting Schrödinger-like equation. It turns out that two of the three models of the $$\phi ^{10}$$

ϕ
10

brane are stable, while another contains unstable modes for certain ranges of the model parameters. We also show that the brane solution from the specific $$\phi ^{18}$$

ϕ
18

models are stable, while the others involve neutral equilibrium. The asymptotic behaviour of the brane solutions are also discussed.
An axially symmetric spacetime with causality violation in Ricci-inverse gravity
Authors: de Souza J. C. R. , Santos A. F. 
Published: September 2023

AbstractIn this paper, Ricci-inverse gravity is investigated. It is an alternative theory of gravity that introduces into the Einstein–Hilbert action an anti-curvature scalar that is obtained from the anti-curvature tensor which is the inverse of the Ricci tensor. An axially symmetric spacetime with causality violation is studied. Two classes of the model are discussed. Different sources of matter are considered. Then a direct relation between the content of matter and causality violation is shown. Our results confirm that Ricci-inverse gravity allows the existence of Closed Time-like Curves (CTCs) that lead to the violation of causality. Furthermore, a comparison is made between the results of general relativity and Ricci-inverse gravity. Other spacetimes, such as Gödel and Gödel-type universes, which are exact solutions of general relativity and allow for causality violations, are also explored in Ricci-inverse gravity framework.
Ten-Patient Trial: Remarkable Responses in Pediatric Cancers
Authors: Mardis Elaine R. 
Published: September 2023

SummaryA clinical trial of nivolumab in 10 patients with pediatric cancer with high tumor mutational burden demonstrated complete responses in 50% of patients. This result recapitulates multiple clinical trial results in high mutation–burden adult cancers and may redefine best practice in the setting of germline DNA mismatch repair–based susceptibility.See related article by Das et al., p. 4770
Oral Anticoagulation Use and Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in LAAOS III
Authors: Connolly Stuart J. , Healey Jeff S. , Belley-Cote Emilie P. , Balasubramanian Kumar , Paparella Domenico , Brady Katheryn , Reents Wilko , Danner Bernhard C. , Devereaux P.J. , Sharma Mukul , Ramasundarahettige Chinthanie , Yusuf Salim , Whitlock Richard P. 
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:
LAAOS III (Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion Study III) showed that left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion reduces the risk of ischemic stroke or systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing cardiac surgery. This article examines the effect of LAA occlusion on stroke reduction according to variation in the use of oral anticoagulant (OAC) therapy.

METHODS:
Information regarding OAC use was collected at every follow-up visit. Adjusted proportional hazards modeling, including using landmarks of hospital discharge, 1 and 2 years after randomization, evaluated the effect of LAA occlusion on the risk of ischemic stroke or systemic embolism, according to OAC use. Adjusted proportional hazard modeling, with OAC use as a time-dependent covariate, was also performed to assess the effect of LAA occlusion, according to OAC use throughout the study.

RESULTS:
At hospital discharge, 3027 patients (63.5%) were receiving a vitamin K antagonist, and 879 (18.5%) were receiving a non–vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (direct OAC), with no difference in OAC use between treatment arms. There were 2887 (60.5%) patients who received OACs at all follow-up visits, 1401 (29.4%) who received OAC at some visits, and 472 (9.9%) who never received OACs. The effect of LAA occlusion on the risk of ischemic stroke or systemic embolism was consistent after discharge across all 3 groups: hazard ratios of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.51–0.96), 0.63 (95% CI, 0.43–0.94), and 0.76 (95% CI, 0.32–1.79), respectively. An adjusted proportional hazards model with OAC use as a time-dependent covariate showed that the reduction in stroke or systemic embolism with LAA occlusion was similar whether patients were receiving OACs or not.

CONCLUSIONS:
The benefit of LAA occlusion was consistent whether patients were receiving OACs or not. LAA occlusion provides thromboembolism reduction in patients independent of OAC use.
Sometimes the Bear Eats You, Sometimes You Eat the Bear: Values Surrounding Urban Bears
Authors: Booth Annie L. , Ryan Daniel A.J. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
Bears evoke many responses in humans, both to their social/cultural presence and to their physical/ecological reality. This study examines attitudes towards bears in two cities in British Columbia, Canada. Focusing largely upon black bears (Ursus americanus), open-ended survey responses are analyzed to identify the key values that participants identified for the bears with whom they share space (both cities have large populations of urban bears). The largely positive nature of the values articulated suggests that there is hope for the long-term survival of these charismatic creatures even in largely urbanized settings.
Decentering Exile
Authors: Cunningham Marshall A. 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
I argue that the Levitical Prayer offered in Neh 9:5–37 (LP) offers a version of Judean history that does not include the Babylonian exile. Instead, it narrates an unbroken chain of possession of Judean territory that spans from the conquest and settlement of Canaan to the post-monarchic context of the prayer’s composition. Drawing insights from the study of cultural trauma, I make the case that the interpretive importance of such a catastrophic event cannot be assumed for subsequent Judean communities who sought to form a sense of cultural identity through the retelling of a shared past. Potentially traumatic events like the Babylonian exile are not actualized naturally; communal trauma is instead the product of social processes in the present that serve the needs of present and future communities. An elision of the Babylonian exile from a piece of post-monarchic period literature like the LP does not, therefore, require the interpretative conclusion that the prayer was written by the descendants of Judeans who avoided exile and remained in Judea during the sixth century ʙᴄᴇ. Importantly, neither does it exclude the possibility that the LP was produced by a community whose ancestors were displaced and resettled in Babylonia during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar II. Through this analysis I invite scholars to explore a broader range of interpretative possibilities in their study of Ezra-Nehemiah as a composition and the understanding of the defining elements of Judean identity in the post- monarchic period.
The Great Mother Goddess on the Thracian Coast of Pontos Euxeinos: Forms and Traditions
Authors: Chiekova Dobrinka 
Published: September 2023

Abstract
This paper focuses on the worship of the Mother Goddess in the Greek colonies on the west coast of the Black Sea from the Archaic to the Roman period. The epigraphic and the archaeological evidence demonstrate the importance of the Milesian colonies in the spread of the cult. The political aspect of the Goddess’s personality is prominent and reminds of her Phrygian position. A Great Goddess very similar to the Phrygian Matar was worshiped in Thrace and on the western shores of the Black Sea before the arrival of the Greeks in 7th century BC. The Greek colonists and the Thracians were able to recognize simultaneously the continuum and the distinction in the forms and characteristics of their respective Great Goddess.
Effect of Structural Anisotropy on Thermal Ageing in Rigid PU Foams
Authors: Boscoletto A. Boscolo , Cellarosi B. 
Published: September 2023

The use of some alternative blowing agents from conventional CFC's and the quality of foamy processes can lead to non-homogeneity of foam structure with presence of defects along the panel thickness. These defects appear as holes in cell windows or cavities. Accurate measurements of thermal conductivity were made on test specimens having different thicknesses obtained by cutting away the external faces of the production panels. This type of characterisation of foams blown with alternative blowing agents allowed us to understand their ageing behaviour (natural and accelerated) and the problems related to the scaling factor. Moreover this study pointed out how the effective diffusion coefficients of gases involved in the ageing process can have different values along the thickness of a sample. All these observations were connected with morphological analyses and radiant conductivity data. Our studies showed that sampling procedure and design of models are very important for a correct analysis of ageing phenomena. Good fit between experimental and theoretical data was found, allowing us to verify the validity of the method used to characterise non-homogeneous foams.
An Automated Image Analysis Method for the Characterisation of Flexible Foam Cellular Structure
Authors: Chaffanjon P. , Verhelst G. 
Published: September 2023

The mechanisms which control the formation and the final configuration of the cellular structure of a flexible foam are not completely understood. This also applies to the relationship between this structure and foam properties. An indepth investigation of these two aspects has been initiated with a specific interest for MDI-based cold cure foams. It is aimed in a first instance at building up a good understanding of the phenomena mentioned above. This will then be used in the development of new PU formulations more fitted to market needs by considering the optimisation of the cellular structure to meet the required properties. In this respect, an automated method for quantifying the cellular structure of flexible foams has been defined. The quantification is made by reconstructing cut cells of a foam cross-section by using recent developments of image analysis techniques. The method allows fast measurement and has been optimised to be suitable for a wide range of flexible foams. Using selected parameters from the measurements representative of the cell size and cell size distribution, it willbe shown that this method gives a statistical description of the structure and that reproducible results are obtained. It willbe shown that the measurements can be applied to practical situations. The effect of the mixing conditions of the reactants on the foam structure will be quantified and different mixing technologies will be compared. Achievements in controlling the cellsize of polyurethane flexiblefoams willbe presented and some correlations with foam properties willbe discussed. Finally it willbe shown how the defined method can be used as a classification of foam by its cellular structure and a scale will be proposed.
Combustion Modified Moulded Polyurethane Flexible Foam for the Furniture Industry
Authors: Barker M. , Hannaby MP. , Lockwood F.J. 
Published: September 2023

Current trends in legislation are based on a move towards more severe fire testing of flexible foam products used in the construction of domestic and contract furniture and mass transit seating. Large scale ignition tests, such as CaliforniaT.B. 133intheU.SA., BS 5852 crib 5in the UKand the AAstandard in Japan, are becoming the accepted norm around the world. ICI has now developed a combustion modified system capable of meeting even these most stringent fire tests. In addition, the polyol blend used is storage stable against any settling out of the solid fire retardant component. This has been achieved in a CFC free system without compromising the superior processing associated with MDI technology. In fact, it is found that the reproducibility of the fire performance of the resulting foam is enhanced due to superior dispersion of the solid fire retardant. Careful development of both polyol and isocyanate components has minimized the detrimental effects of the fire retardant package on foam physical properties. Significant joint customer development work has led to the definition of a seat design concept incorporating ICI's combustion modified foam which can satisfy California T.B. 133, recognized as one of the world's most severe fire performance tests. Formulation development work has been underpinned by the development of an understanding of the fundamental mechanism at work during combustion of the CMHR foam. This has been achieved by the use of analytical techniques including a study by cone calorimetry.
Development of CFC-free Integral Skin Foam for Steering Wheels*
Authors: Hobby R.T. , Heather M. , Christfreund A. , Dobinson D. 
Published: September 2023

The elimination of CFC 11 in the manufacture of integral skin foam (ISF) remains a challenge for the polyurethanes industry. The use of HFA 22, which has significantly lower ozone depletion potential (ODP), is a step in the right direction but is not the ultimate solution. HFA 123, pentane and water blowing have been evaluated as potential altematives. But each change in the Chemical system results in the need for other modifications. Integration of all these into the manufacturing process places severe pressure on the steering wheel producer, working inside increasingly stringent time constraints. UTA-Clifford and ICI Polyurethanes recognised that further development of water-blowing technology was the preferred way forward, and that the fastest route to solve these pressing problems was through close partnership. So, a joint development programme was undertaken, using statistical design of experiment techniques. This proved to be a powerful approach, significantly reducing development time and providing an optimum solution. Confirmation was obtained during a pre-production trial at UTA-Clifford, when a wide range of steering wheels was successfully produced. The optimised system was fully acceptable when used in combination with an in-mould coating; UTA-Clifford will introduce the technology into production in 1992.
Foams for Refrigeration Applications
Authors: Bazzo Walter 
Published: September 2023

Rigid polyurethanes have been used in the manufacture of household appliances for three decades. Their use has helped turn refrigerator manufacture into a major world activity, allowing completely new approaches to design and production. This paper reviews the polyurethane properties that have enabled the domestic refrigeration industry to grow and describes current manufacturing and assembly techniques. Issues such as CFC phase-out, and the manufacturing implications, are discussed, along with likely trends for the future. It shows that for the polyurethanes industry to be an effective supplier to the refrigeration industry, it must continue to provide strong support over the next few years.
Calorimetric Combustion Assessment of Polyurethane Flexible Foam and Fabric Composites
Authors: Vanspeybroeck R. , Van Wesemael E. , Van Hees P. , Vandevelde P. 
Published: September 2023

This paper summarizes the second part of a study over a two year period carried out at the Laboratory for Fuel Technology and Heat Transfer of the University of Gent in cooperation with Dow Benelux N.V. The first part of the study, focusing on the effects of cone calorimeter test variables as well as polyurethane (PU) flexible foam variables on the foam combustion characteristics, has been published recently(1). In the second part of the study, the relative contributions of foams and fabrics on important fire hazard parameters such as ignition performance, peak rate of heat, smoke and carbon monoxide release and time to peak rate of heat release, were measured with the cone calorimeter and the Nordtest NT 032 calorimeter and compared. The study was carried out on sixteen different composites of main commercial fabrics and PU flexible foams. The same trends were found with both test methods: post-ignition composite performance is mainly determined by the fabric whereas ignition is influenced by foam and fabric to about the same extent. However, it was not possible to draw precise quantitative correlations, and to predict large-scale Nordtest NT 032 performance on the basis of cone calorimetry results.
Comparison of Experimental and Predicted Ageing of Polyurethane Foams Blown with CFC Alternatives*
Authors: Biesmans G. , Vos R. De , Rosbotham I.D. 
Published: September 2023

Accelerated ageing tests have been the industry standard for many years. With the introduction of CFC alternatives these accelerated ageing tests have become questionable. This paper describes how the ageing of foams, based on novel blowing agents, can be predicted. The comparison of an ‘experimental data set’ with a ‘calculated data set’ shows the accuracy and reliability of the method presented in this paper. The calculated data set is generated via the determination of fundamental foam physical properties and an ageing calculation model. The two most important factors are the effective diffusion constant and the initial cell gas composition. The influence of temperature on both the effective diffusion constants and gas content is determined. Finally the foam structure is described in terms of cell size, polymer distribution over struts and windows and foam void volume. The experimental data is based on the actual K-values measured on foam samples after exposure to a number of different ageing conditions. Parameters that were investigated are foam dimensions and exposure temperature. A comparison between model prediction and data obtained from long term field exposures is made. The method presented allows for a K-value ageing prediction under well defined conditions without the need for extended exposure experiments.
Changes in Self-Reported and Device-Measured Physical Activity Before Abdominal Resection Surgery: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mylius Caspar F , Mooiweer Yvet , Krijnen Wim P , Takken Tim , van Munster Barbara C , van der Schans Cees P , Klaase Joost M 
Published: September 2023

Objective To determine the effect of interventions on physical activity levels of patients awaiting abdominal resection surgery using self-reported as well as device-measured outcome measures. Data source PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched on the 18th of April 2023 up to April 2023 for studies on interventions to promote physical activity during the preoperative phase. Review methods Studies were included if pre- and post-intervention physical activity was measured between diagnosis and abdominal surgery. Risk of bias was assessed by the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) assessment tool for trials. Meta-analyses were performed to assess the effect of the pre-surgery activity promoting interventions on self-reported and device-measured physical activity. Results Seventeen studies were included in the analysis with 452 subjects in the intervention groups. The random-effect meta-analysis showed a moderate improvement in intervention groups measures in pre-surgery physical activity levels compared to the baseline (SMD = 0.67, [CI = 0.30;1.03], I2 = 79%). The self-reported subgroup meta-analysis showed the largest increase in performed physical activity, (SMD = 0.78, [CI = 0.4;1.15], I2 = 79%) whilst non-significant increase was shown in the device-measured subgroup (SMD = 0.16, [CI = −0.64;0.97], I2 = 58%). Conclusion Increasing physical activity in the preoperative phase is feasible. Self-reported physical activity outcome measures show larger effects compared to device-measured outcome measures. More high-quality research should be performed utilizing objective measures.
Correlation of Acromial Morphology With Risk and Direction of Shoulder Instability: An MRI Study
Authors: Arner Justin W. , Nolte Philip-Christian , Ruzbarsky Joseph J. , Woolson Thomas , Provencher Matthew T. , Bradley James P. , Millett Peter J. 
Published: September 2023

Background: The influence of bony morphology on the development of posterior shoulder instability is not well known. Purpose: To determine if acromial morphology, as measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is associated with posterior or anterior shoulder instability. Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: MRI measurements of posterior acromial coverage (PAC), posterior acromial height (PAH), posterior acromial tilt (PAT), and anterior acromial coverage (AAC) were completed for 3 separate matched groups who underwent surgical intervention: posterior instability, anterior instability, and a comparison group of patients who underwent arthroscopic surgery for snapping scapula. Inclusion criteria were patients with recurrent instability <40 years of age without multidirectional instability, glenoid bone loss >13.5%, or glenoid retroversion >10%. Results: Overall, 37 patients were included in each group. PAC was significantly less in the posterior instability group than in the anterior instability and comparison groups (68.3° vs 88.7° vs 81.7°; P < .001). PAH was significantly greater in the posterior group than in the anterior instability group (11.0 mm vs −0.1 mm; P < .001) and comparison group (0.7 mm; P < .001). There was no difference between the posterior and anterior groups in terms of PAT or AAC ( P = .45 and P = .05, respectively). PAT was significantly smaller in the posterior instability group than the comparison group (55.2° vs 62.2°; P = .026). The anterior and comparison groups were not significantly different in PAH or PAT ( P = .874 and P = .067, respectively) but were significantly different in AAC ( P = .026). Conclusion: A higher and flatter posterior acromion, as measured on preoperative MRI, appears to be associated with patients who require arthroscopic capsulolabral repair due to posterior shoulder instability. This information may help clinicians to both diagnose and predict the need for operative intervention for patients with posterior labral tears.
A Discussion of Marx’s Account of Technical Progress by Means of Wage Curves and Their Historical Evolution
Authors: Gaul Michael 
Published: September 2023

Marx’s account of technical progress has been criticized by philosophers as being a metanarrative, by ecological economists as being unduly strong, by economists as being unduly weak, and by post-Sraffian authors as being ill-founded. This article discusses Marx’s account of technical progress in light of these criticisms on a conceptual, theoretical, and empirical level, relying on the apparatus of wage curves. It argues that some of the critiques cannot be sustained, since the criticized positions cannot be attributed to Marx. The remaining critiques, in turn, amount to alternative predictions on the evolution of wage curves which are, however, and in contrast to those of Marx, not in line with empirical evidence, as the estimation of wage curves for thirteen countries from 2000 to 2013 shows. JEL Classification: B14, B24, O33