Search Results (280)

This short communication examines the intersection of academic freedom concerns and doctoral student experiences at Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) during a period of increasing legislative restrictions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Drawing from faculty observations during doctoral residency weeks at one HSI educational leadership program, this piece explores how doctoral students navigate dissertation topic selection in an environment where diversity-related research may be perceived as entering legal or political “gray areas.” The communication contextualizes these observations within the broader landscape of academic freedom challenges facing higher education, particularly at institutions serving predominantly minoritized populations. Recent data reveals that 91% of faculty across the United States believe academic freedom is under threat, with particularly acute challenges facing institutions designated as Hispanic-Serving Institutions. These observations reveal a fundamental disconnect between educational practitioners pursuing doctoral degrees and policymakers, where research-based inclusive practices designed to benefit all students are misperceived as politically controversial. These observations suggest that doctoral students at HSIs face unique pressures as they balance their commitment to addressing educational equity issues with concerns about professional and academic risks in an increasingly restrictive policy environment. Full article

Children’s neighborhood mobility has been widely examined through either independent movement or psychological autonomy, yet few studies consider how these dimensions intersect in the lived realities of low-income, high-density environments. This study explores how neighborhood conditions simultaneously constrain and enable children’s experiences of mobility and autonomy, focusing on People’s Housing Project (PPR) estates in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Using a qualitative, child-centered approach, data were collected through child-led walks and mental mapping with 23 children aged 7–12. The child-led walks revealed everyday hazards that restricted children’s freedom of movement and heightened concerns for safety. Conversely, the mental maps highlighted intangible but significant attachments that fostered a sense of belonging, pride, and autonomy despite material deprivation. Together, these findings illustrate that children’s well-being depends not only on opportunities for independent mobility but also on affective and symbolic dimensions of autonomy embedded in their neighborhood environments. The study concludes that planning and housing policies must move beyond efficiency and density to address children’s rights to safe, supportive, and meaningful spaces that nurture both freedom of movement and autonomy in everyday life. Full article

This study examines the moderating effect of bank capitalization on the relationship between economic freedom and banking performance, offering comparative evidence from both advanced and emerging economies. Using an unbalanced panel of 213 countries from 1993 to 2018, this study applies a two-step System Generalized Method of Moments approach to address dynamic effects, endogeneity, and unobserved heterogeneity. The results show that economic freedom exerts a negative and significant impact on bank profitability (ROA and ROE), particularly in emerging markets with weaker institutional safeguards. Strong internal capital buffers, on the other hand, mitigate these adverse effects and enhance resilience, supporting stable profitability under liberalized conditions. Regulatory capital shows a less consistent and sometimes restrictive role. Disaggregated results indicate that equity buffers most effectively cushion the risks of financial and investment freedom, whereas trade freedom is less sensitive to capital levels. The findings emphasize that successful liberalization depends on institutional capacity and capitalization strength, highlighting the importance of tailored prudential frameworks. The study contributes to debates on financial liberalization, Basel III, macroprudential regulation, and bank risk management, underscoring that a “one-size-fits-all” liberalization strategy may undermine stability and efficiency unless supported by robust capital buffers. Full article

Injection molding is widely used for mass-producing plastic components, demanding precise thermal control to optimize cycle times and part quality. Traditional CNC-machined molds limit design flexibility and restrict advanced cooling features like conformal cooling channels (CCCs). Integrating CCCs improves cooling performance, reduces cycle times, and offers more efficient, cost-effective designs. Additive manufacturing (AM), especially Metal-Fused Filament Fabrication (Metal-FFF), offers geometries unattainable by machining. While most mold research focuses on Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), the feasibility of Metal-FFF molds remains underexplored. This study presents the design, fabrication, and experimental evaluation of an injection mold produced via Metal-FFF with integrated CCCs. The process included computational design, resistance simulations, fabrication, debinding, sintering, and post-processing, followed by testing under injection molding conditions. Results show that Metal-FFF molds with CCCs boost cooling efficiency, cutting cycle times by about 30% compared to conventional molds, while offering greater design freedom and economic benefits. Nonetheless, issues such as porosity and shrinkage need further refinement to fully leverage this technology for industrial use. Full article

Additive manufacturing (AM) developments have been strongly driven by the ability of AM to improve the strength-to-weight ratios of structures, in contrast to traditional manufacturing methods, heavily supported by lattice structures. These motivations have persisted with the development of large-scale additively manufactured structures, which can offer more flexibility in manufacturing location and can often be faster than traditional manufacturing. However, current large-scale AM methods are often limited by their precision in order to maintain speed, constraining the method to manufacturing simple structures and often avoiding lattices altogether. This work proposes a mathematical framework for defining an equation-based lattice that splits the lattice into (1) build direction and (2) planar components such that their design can be altered to address AM methods restricted to three degrees of freedom. The framework is applied against a class of lattices called triply periodic minimal surfaces, which are represented using implicit equations, and it is shown that this approach allows for their use in large-scale AM technologies and enables further design control for small-scale AM design. Full article

The maneuvering performance of ships in marginal ice zones is critical for navigational safety, yet most existing studies focus on icebreaking vessels. This study develops a coupled numerical framework that integrates the Non-Smooth Discrete Element Method (NDEM) for simulating ship–ice interactions with the three-degree-of-freedom MMG model for ship dynamics. The framework was applied to an S175 container ship, and numerical simulations were conducted for turning circle and Zig-Zag maneuvers under varying ice concentrations (0–60%), floe sizes, and rudder angles. NDEM efficiently handles complex, high-frequency multi-body collisions with larger time steps compared to conventional DEM or CFD–DEM approaches, enabling large-scale simulations of realistic ice conditions. Results indicate that increasing ice concentration from 0% to 60% reduces the turning diameter from 4.11L to 3.21L and decreases steady turning speed by approximately 53%. Larger floes form stable force chains that restrict lateral motion, while higher rudder angles improve responsiveness but may induce dynamic instability. These findings improve understanding of non-icebreaking ship maneuverability in ice and provide practical guidance for safe and efficient Arctic navigation. Full article

Study design: Trends in the utilization of Mandibulo-Maxillary Fixation (MMF) are shifting nowadays from tooth-borne devices over specialized screws to hybrid MMF devices. Hybrid MMF devices come in self-made Erich arch bar modifications and commercial hybrid MMF systems (CHMMFSs). Objective: We survey the available technical/clinical data. Hypothetically, the risk of tooth root damage by transalveolar screws is diminished by a targeting function of the screw holes/slots. Methods: We utilize a literature review and graphic displays to disclose parallels and dissimilarities in design and functionality with an in-depth look at the targeting properties. Results: Self-made hybrid arch bars have limitations to meet low-risk interradicular screw insertion sites. Technical/clinical information on CHMMFSs is unevenly distributed in favor of the SMARTLock System: positive outcome variables are increased speed of application/removal, the possibility to eliminate wiring and stick injuries and screw fixation with standoff of the embodiment along the attached gingiva. Inferred from the SMARTLock System, all four CHMMFs possess potential to effectively prevent tooth root injuries but are subject to their design features and targeting with the screw-receiving holes. The height profile and geometry shape of a CHMMFS may restrict three-dimensional spatial orientation and reach during placement. To bridge between interradicular spaces and tooth equators, where hooks or tie-up-cleats for intermaxillary cerclages should be ideally positioned under biomechanical aspects, can be problematic. The movability of their screw-receiving holes according to all six degrees of freedom differs. Conclusion: CHMMFSs allow simple immobilization of facial fractures involving dental occlusion. The performance in avoiding tooth root damage is a matter of design subtleties. Full article

This study explores how Black student leaders (BSLs) at public historically white institutions (HWIs) in Florida and Georgia navigate racial battle fatigue (RBF) in the context of anti-DEI legislation. Amid rising political hostility toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, this research examines the lived experiences of 11 BSLs as they respond to racialized campus climates that are increasingly ambiguous and unsupportive. Using a critical qualitative approach, data were collected through two in-depth interviews per participant and analyzed using inductive and deductive coding. Four major findings emerged: (1) BSLs experience heightened psychological, physiological, and emotional forms if stress linked to their identity and leadership roles; (2) anti-DEI policies contribute to institutional erasure and confusion; (3) students express emotional withdrawal, hypervigilance, and disillusionment with performative leadership; (4) students employ culturally grounded coping strategies centered on self-care, spirituality, and community. This study underscores that BSLs are both empowered and burdened by their leadership, especially under politically restrictive conditions. The findings call for student affairs educators to prioritize engagement and belonging and offer identity-affirming support. Further, scholars with academic freedom are urged to continue documenting racialized student experiences. These insights are critical to protecting Black student leadership and equity-centered educational transformation. Full article

The review provides an overview of research concerning the assessment of cattle welfare in different housing systems. Hence, it restricts its scope to factors known to have a particular influence on the expression of their natural behaviours. It analyses the impact of housing systems on social and maternal bonds, as well as on the health and productivity of animals and on the feeding behaviour and physical activity of animals. It also pays attention to the occurrence of stereotypies, indicating the quality of the environment in which animals live, and attempts to determine the extent to which environmental enrichment improves welfare. It can be seen that welfare can vary significantly depending on the cattle rearing system. In intensive rearing environments, weaning calves and limited space often result in stress and behavioural disorders (e.g., cross-sucking). Extensive systems, offering access to pasture and longer cow–calf contact, usually provide higher levels of welfare. A freestall system allows greater freedom of movement and social contact but requires appropriate management to prevent aggression; in contrast, the tethering system limits movement, which increases the risk of stress and health problems. It has also been shown that enriching the living space of animals can significantly improve their welfare, regardless of the housing system. By balancing productivity with ensuring that the cattle are able to express their natural behaviours and maintain good health, it is possible to benefit both the animals and the agricultural sector as a whole, increasing its profitability and gaining consumer confidence. Full article

Augmented Reality Smart Glasses (ARSGs) allow users to engage in picture-taking and video recording, as well as real-time storage and sharing of pictures and videos through cloud services. Unlike smartphones, newer ARSGs resemble ordinary sunglasses, allowing for unobtrusive recording. As these devices become available on an international market, it is important to understand how different cultural attitudes towards privacy and the recording and sharing of images of bystanders could impact the acceptance and adoption of ARSGs. South Korea and the United States have vastly different culturally based perceptions of photography and recording in public. S. Korea has cultural and legal restrictions in place, while the U.S.’s values of freedom of expression and individual rights are reflected in limited restrictions. Accordingly, drawing upon the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this paper explored the impact of privacy concerns on key constructs of the TAM for U.S. and S. Korean participants. This paper examined how Americans’ (U.S. = 402) and S. Koreans’ (S. Korea = 898) perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude toward using, and behavioral intention to use ARSGs were impacted by privacy concerns. The results of this study found that S. Korean respondents had significantly greater privacy concerns about using ARSGs than U.S. respondents. However, they also had significantly more positive attitudes and greater behavioral intentions to use ARSGs. Path analyses examining ARSGs’ acceptance revealed that privacy concerns impacted attitudes towards ARSGs, but that these had a greater impact on U.S. participants than on Koreans. The results highlight the importance of considering nuanced cultural perspectives, specifically privacy concerns, in examining the development and adoption of new technologies. Raw data and scripts for this study are available to ensure reproducibility. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical deficiencies in the United States’ legal system’s handling of emergency injunctions, particularly concerning religious freedom. This article examines the challenges courts faced in balancing public health measures with constitutional rights, focusing on the use of shadow dockets and the frequent dismissal of cases due to mootness. Analyzing key Supreme Court decisions and lower court rulings, we highlight the inconsistencies and delays that arose when addressing First Amendment challenges to pandemic-related restrictions. Arguments for procedural reforms, including expedited hearings and avoiding mootness dismissals in cases of national importance, are provided to protect fundamental rights during future public health crises. Full article

Research on Virtual Reality (VR) interfaces for distant object interaction has been carried out to improve user experience. Since hand-only interfaces and gaze-only interfaces have limitations such as physical fatigue or restricted usage, VR interaction interfaces using both gaze and hand input have been proposed. However, current gaze + hand interfaces still have restrictions such as difficulty in translating along the gaze ray direction, using less realistic methods, or limited rotation support. This study aims to design a new distant object interaction technique that supports hand-based interaction with high freedom of object interaction in immersive VR. In this study, we developed GazeHand2, a hand-based object interaction technique, which features a new depth control that enables free object manipulation in VR. Building on the strength of the original GazeHand, GazeHand2 can control the change rate of the gaze depth by using the relative position of the hand, allowing users to translate the object to any position. To validate our design, we conducted a user study on object manipulation, which compares it with other gaze + hand interfaces (Gaze+Pinch and ImplicitGaze). Result showed that, compared to other conditions, GazeHand2 reduced 39.3% to 54.3% of hand movements and 27.8% to 47.1% of head movements under 3 m and 5 m tasks. It also significantly increased overall user experiences (0.69 to 1.12 pt higher than Gaze+Pinch and 1.18 to 1.62 pt higher than ImplicitGaze). Furthermore, over half of the participants preferred GazeHand2 because it supports convenient and efficient object translation and hand-based realistic object manipulation. We concluded that GazeHand2 can support simple and effective distant object interaction with reduced physical fatigue and higher user experiences compared to other interfaces in immersive VR. We suggested future designs to improve interaction accuracy and user convenience for future works. Full article

Magnetorheological finishing is widely used in the high-precision processing of optical components, but due to the influence of multi-source system errors, the convergence of single-pass magnetorheological finishing (MRF) is limited. Although iterative processing can improve the surface accuracy, repeated tool paths tend to deteriorate mid-spatial frequency textures, and for complex surfaces such as aspheres, traditional manual alignment is time-consuming and lacks repeatability, significantly restricting the processing efficiency. To address these issues, firstly, this study systematically analyzes the effect of six-degree-of-freedom positioning errors on convergence behavior, establishes a positioning error-normal contour error transmission model, and obtains a workpiece positioning error tolerance threshold that ensures that the relative convergence ratio is not less than 80%. Further, based on these thresholds, a hybrid self-positioning method combining machine vision and a probing module is proposed. A composite data acquisition method using both a camera and probe is designed, and a stepwise global optimization model is constructed by integrating a synchronous iterative localization algorithm with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II). The experimental results show that, compared with the traditional alignment, the proposed method improves the convergence ratio of flat workpieces by 41.9% and reduces the alignment time by 66.7%. For the curved workpiece, the convergence ratio is improved by 25.7%, with an 80% reduction in the alignment time. The proposed method offers both theoretical and practical support for high-precision, high-efficiency MRF and intelligent optical manufacturing. Full article

The bending of topological interlocking (TI) plates under point loading is not smooth; it is accompanied by developing lines of localization commensurate with the symmetry of the interlocking assembly. Furthermore, the developed stage of deflection is characterized by post-peak softening. This paper proposes a new concept that explains these experimentally observed phenomena. A new model considers that due to the absence of bonding between the blocks, they assume independent rotational degrees of freedom; this is missed in the traditional modeling of TI structures. The bending resistance of TI beams relies on the elasticity of the peripheral constraint (frame or post-tensioning cables) resisting the additional loading caused by the relative rotation of blocks—a phenomenon called elbowing. This is independent of the particulars of the shape of interlocking blocks, which makes it possible to model the deflection of the TI beams as the deflection of fragmented beams consisting of parallelepiped blocks with restricted out-of-beam relative displacements. The model demonstrates that the bending of TI beams produces the experimentally observed point deflection, which is considerably different from that of conventional beams. This is a consequence of independent block rotation and elbowing. It is shown that the other consequence of block rotation with elbowing is the force–deflection relationship exhibiting a post-peak softening (apparent negative stiffness). Based on the point deflection model, it is demonstrated that oscillations of TI blocks involve a unidirectional damping with discontinuous velocity dependence. This paper develops a model of such damping. The results are important for designing flexible topological interlocking structures with energy absorption. Full article

The challenging terrain and deep ravines that characterize mountainous regions often result in slower path planning and suboptimal flight paths for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) when traditional meta-heuristic optimization algorithms are employed. This study proposes a novel Improved Enhanced Snake Optimizer (IESO) for three-dimensional path planning and tested it in a simulated rugged mountainous terrain with obstacles and a restricted “no-fly zone”. The initialization process in the enhanced snake optimizer is refined by integrating the Chebyshev chaotic map. Additionally, a non-monotonic factor is introduced to modulate the “temperature”. This temperature controls the freedom of movement within the solution space. Furthermore, a boundary condition is incorporated into the dynamic opposition learning mechanism. These modifications collectively reduce the likelihood of population convergence to local optima during optimization. The feasibility of IESO is validated through time complexity and global convergence analyses. Comparative simulation experiments benchmarked IESO against five state-of-the-art biologically inspired optimization algorithms across test functions and path-planning simulated scenarios. Experimental results show that compared with five commonly used algorithms, the IESO algorithm improves the quality of flight trajectory planning by nearly 30% on average. Particularly when compared to the original SO algorithm, IESO demonstrates performance enhancement exceeding 36%, proving its superiority in UAV path planning over complex terrain. Full article