bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Additions to Lentitheciaceae (Pleosporales, Dothideomycetes): Pseudosetoseptoria jiangxiensis sp. nov. from decaying culms of bamboo in China
Authors: LI CUI , XU CHEN-YU , HU DIAN-MING , TENNAKOON DANUSHKA S. , SONG HAI-YAN
Published: October 2024

In terms of morphology, ecology, and phylogeny, Lentitheciaceae species exhibit an enormous diversity. They have a cosmopolitan distribution worldwide, and lead diverse lifestyles. A novel species in Lentitheciaceae, Pseudosetoseptoria jiangxiensis occurring on decaying culms of bamboo in Jiangxi province, China is described and illustrated. Morphologically, Pseudosetoseptoria jiangxiensis has dark brown to black, semi-immersed, carbonaceous, pycnidial conidiomata and hyaline, obovoid, elliptic, or nearly spherical, aseptate conidia with minute guttules. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses of combined ITS, LSU, SSU and tef1-α sequence data were used to clarify the phylogenetic affinities of the species.
Brachysporium sinense, a new species from a plateau lake in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: SHEN HONG-WEI , BAO DAN-FENG , WANG WEN-PENG , BOONMEE SARANYAPHAT , AL-OTIBI FATIMAH , LUO ZONG-LONG , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: October 2024

Yunnan is one of the fungal diversity hotspots and many studies of lignicolous freshwater fungal research have been done in this Province. Presently, research on lignicolous freshwater fungi in the plateau lakes of this region is being systematically conducted. During our investigation of the species diversity of lignicolous freshwater fungi in Dujuanhu Lake, we found a distinctive species, Brachysporium sinense, based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis. Brachysporium sinense is distinguished from other Brachysporium species by monoblastic, integrated, terminal conidiogenous cells and fusoid to limoniform, verrucose, septate, brown to dark brown conidia with subhyaline ends, which are connected to the conidiogenous cells by a single denticle. Detailed descriptions and illustrations and relatively comprehensive sequence data are provided.
Future Derecho Potential in the United States
Authors: Kaminski Kristie , Ashley Walker S. , Haberlie Alex M. , Gensini Vittorio A.
Published: October 2024

This study uses high-resolution, convection-permitting, dynamically downscaled regional climate simulation output to assess how long-lived, convectively induced, extratropical windstorms known as derechos may change across the CONUS during the twenty-first century. Three 15-yr epochs including a historical period (1990–2005) and two separate late-twenty-first-century periods (2085–2100) employing intermediate (RCP4.5) and pessimistic (RCP8.5) greenhouse gas concentration scenarios are evaluated. A mesoscale convective system (MCS) identification and tracking tool catalogs derecho candidates across epochs using simulated radar reflectivity and maximum 10-m wind speed as a proxy for near-surface severe wind gusts. Results indicate that MCS-based windstorms, including derechos, are more frequent, widespread, and intense in both future climate scenarios examined for most regions of the central and eastern CONUS. Increases are suggested across all parts of the year, with significant changes in populations concentrated during the early spring and summer months, suggesting the potential for a longer, more extreme MCS windstorm season. This research provides insights for forecasters, emergency managers, and wind-vulnerable stakeholders on how these events may change across the twenty-first century so that they may mitigate, adapt to, and become resilient against severe convective storm perils.

Significance Statement

Long-lived, thunderstorm-induced, damaging wind events known as derechos may increase across most portions of the central and eastern United States in the future, with projections indicating a near doubling or tripling of annual cases in the Midwest, eastern Great Plains, and Mississippi and Ohio Valley regions by the end of the twenty-first century. Modeling projections suggest that future derechos could generally be longer-lived, more expansive, and capable of producing more severe wind gusts and damage, which will ultimately increase risk to life, infrastructure, and wind-sensitive industries affected by these extreme thunderstorm events.
The Mosque Nearby: Visible Minorities and Far-Right Support in France
Authors: Dazey Margot , Gay Victor
Published: October 2024

How is support for right-wing populist parties affected by exposure to Muslim visibility? Using an original database on French mosques, this article analyzes the relationship between the presence of mosques and support for the Front National at the polling station level in the late 2000s. It finds that the propensity to vote for the Front National increases in polling stations up to intermediate distances from mosques and then decreases, suggesting a spatial mechanism known as the halo effect. The analysis also shows that larger mosques and those with minarets are associated with an accentuated halo effect, suggesting the importance of the salience of minority groups rather than their relative size in influencing political behavior.
A Multi-site Examination of Relationship Violence Intervention Program Attrition for Male and Female Clients
Authors: Richards Tara N. , Claxton Taylor , Murphy Christopher , Jennings Wesley G.
Published: October 2024

The current study addresses the paucity of research on relationship violence intervention program (RVIP) attrition examining both male and female clients and risk factors for attrition across gender. Bivariate comparison tests and logistic regression were used to examine gender differences among participants from four RVIPs in Maryland that serve both male and female clients ( n = 1,307). Findings showed significant bivariate differences by gender for 14 of the factors examined. Less than half of clients (48%) completed RVIP, and women were significantly more likely to complete than men. A greater number of factors predicted attrition for male clients, but unemployment was the strongest predictor of attrition for both men and women. Implications for integrating gender-responsive practices into RVIP are discussed.
Doodling in the Style of Jesus: A Non-Interpretation of the Adultery Pericope
Authors: Ambrosino Brandon
Published: October 2024

In the story of the adulterous woman, Jesus is remembered to have saved a woman’s life by writing on the ground. What he wrote, however, is not preserved in any tradition. That hasn’t stopped commentators from imagining what he might have written. But why imagine he wrote at all? Why imagine there's “content” there to be interpreted? Perhaps when confronted with an ethical dilemma he wanted no part of, Jesus simply bent down and began to doodle. If so, then what matters is the fact that he doodled, the shapes and the size and the squiggly lines of his doodling. In this article, I want to offer a reading of John 7:53-8:11 that engages with the very act of Jesus's wordless doodling. I then want to try and tease out a few ethical principles from this doodling. By focusing on a story where Jesus was remembered primarily for his gestures and not simply his speech, and by reimagining a Christian ethics that emerges from the space opened up by those gestures, we are keeping front and center the conviction that Christian ethics is a matter of style.
Explaining Public Demands for Border Militarization
Authors: Kenwick Michael R. , Maxey Sarah
Published: October 2024

The militarization of border control is a defining feature of contemporary international politics. Why do states flock toward these policies despite their questionable efficacy? We theorize that border militarization stems in part from public reactions to the threat of international and domestic decline. We test this argument with two conjoint experiments that randomize the implementing agency, strategy, costs, and effectiveness of different policies. First, we evaluate whether the public has a baseline preference for militarization, holding constant the material costs and consequences of the border policy. Second, we prime threats of decline—in terms of either America’s dominant status in the world or the majority position of white-identifying Americans within the U.S.—and track changes in preferences for militarized border policies. The results indicate that both threats of decline can increase support for border militarization, with important partisan differences. Border militarization plausibly stems from the reactionary politics of domestic audiences.
β-catenin Orchestrates Gli1+ Cell Fate in Condylar Development and TMJOA
Authors: Wang J. , Dong X. , Lei J. , Zhang Y. , Chen S. , He Y.
Published: October 2024

The fibrocartilage stem cells (FCSCs) on the surface of the condyle play an essential role in cartilage homeostasis and regeneration. However, few well-defined stem cell markers have been identified for the analysis of FCSCs’ cell fate and regulation mechanism. In this study, we first mapped the transcriptional landscape of the condylar cartilage and identified a Gli1+ subset. Label-retaining cells and our lineage-tracing study showed that Gli1 labeled a group of FCSCs. Conditional knockout β-catenin inhibited Gli1+ cells differentiating into hypertrophic chondrocytes. In discectomy-induced temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJOA), Gli1+ cells were further activated, and their differentiation into hypertrophic chondrocytes was accelerated, which induced stem cell pool depletion. The deletion of β-catenin in Gli1+ cells preserved the FCSC pool and alleviated TMJOA cartilage degeneration. Collectively, we uncovered that a Gli1+ FCSC subpopulation and Wnt/β-catenin signaling orchestrate the Gli1+ cell fate in condyle postnatal development and TMJOA.
Using Generative AI to Promote Psychological, Feedback, and Artificial Intelligence Literacies in Undergraduate Psychology
Authors: Richmond Jenny L. , Nicholls Kate
Published: October 2024

Background

With the arrival of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) tools, psychology educators are rethinking their assessment practices.

Objective

This paper describes one approach to integrating genAI into an assessment designed to promote psychological literacy.

Method

Students used ChatGPT to generate a media release about a published article and then wrote a critique. We evaluated whether students were able to use the marking rubric to assess the ChatGPT output, and whether working with the rubric early in the assessment process had benefits for their grades on subsequent tasks.

Results

The results show that students accurately assessed the ChatGPT output against the marking rubric, judging the output to be stylistically good but lacking in accurate coverage of the aims, methods, and results of the research. Working with genAI and the marking rubric early in the assessment process had benefits for performance, relative to cohorts that had engaged in peer review.

Conclusion

By allowing students to use genAI and scaffolding the process of critiquing and revising, students gained competencies in psychological, feedback, and AI literacies.

Teaching implications

Integrating genAI presents opportunities for learning, if educators can think beyond the artifact and design assessment that allows our students to showcase their learning process.
Enhanced methane and energy generation from sewage water using microbial fuel cells with paddy field soil substrate
Authors: Abbas Zeshan , Bibi Hafiza Yousra , Khalid Usman , Khan Saad Saleem , Larkin Stephen , Qaisrani Muther Mansoor , Ahmad Ali , Shareef Hussain , Qaisrani Naeem Akhtar
Published: October 2024

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) have potential in wastewater treatment, biogas production and clean energy generation. MFCs provide an interdisciplinary research approach incorporating engineering and natural sciences. This study explores MFCs’ capabilities to produce electricity and biogas from wastewater and field soil substrates with different compositions. A two-chamber MFC system was operated anaerobically. Household sewage water used as the organic substrate with different soil amounts. Six different process feed compositions, labeled MFC-1–6, were investigated. MFC-1 exhibited the highest biogas generation volume of 245 cm³ and 42 mW/cm² power density. MFC-5 and −6 yielded 100 cm³ and 130 cm³, respectively. Wastewater treatment was effective on day 20, with pH, conductivity, turbidity, and total dissolved solids decreased to 7.3, 2.6 mS, 326 NTUs, and 1114 mg/L, respectively. Since, MFC-1 autonomously generated −800 mV, an external battery supplied an additional 600 mV to meet the methane generation voltage requirements. MFCs’ effectiveness in addressing wastewater treatment and renewable energy production was highlighted.
Millions of Students Are (Still) Above Grade Level: Achievement and Achievement Variability in Mathematics and Reading Before and During COVID-19 in the United States
Authors: Rambo-Hernandez Karen E. , Makel Matthew C. , Koehler Noah
Published: October 2024

According to a 2017 article by Peters and colleagues, millions of students have already demonstrated they know the material slated to be taught that year. Consequently, grade-level standards are unlikely to be appropriately challenging for these students. In this paper, we conceptually replicated and extended this prior study. Using data from schools that administered the Renaissance Star assessment in Fall 2018 and Fall 2021, we quantified pre-COVID and mid-COVID average achievement and variance in achievement in mathematics and reading in fifth grade and estimated the grade level of instruction needed for students. Our results indicate that (a) achievement dropped during COVID-19 relative to pre-COVID, but the drop in mathematics was larger, and (b) achievement variability increased during COVID-19, but the variability in reading was slightly more pronounced. Further, our results replicated Peters et al.’s (2017) results showing that large numbers of students still performed above grade level, and substantial variability in achievement was present within schools.
Subtypes of childhood social withdrawal and adult relationship and parenting outcomes
Authors: Reilly Emily B. , Dodge Kenneth A. , Bai Yu , Lansford Jennifer E. , Bates John E. , Pettit Gregory S.
Published: October 2024

The aims of the current 30 year prospective study were to determine: (1) whether socially withdrawn kindergarten children are less likely than others to enter serious romantic relationships or become parents by age 34, (2) whether socially withdrawn children parent differently than non-withdrawn individuals when they grow up, and (3) whether subtypes of withdrawal are associated with different adult outcomes. Following Harrist et al. (1997), 558 kindergarten children (81% White, 17% Black) were categorized into one of the five groups: four clusters of social withdrawal ( n = 95 unsociable, 23 passive-anxious, 18 active-isolate, and 25 sad/depressed) or non-withdrawal ( n = 397), using directly observed school behavior and teacher ratings. About 30 years later ( Mage = 34.45 years, SD = 0.62 years), participants self-reported on their romantic relationship and parent status and parenting warmth and harshness. Overall, the group of socially withdrawn children was no more or less likely than the non-withdrawn group to be in a current relationship or a parent, nor did they report any differences in parenting. However, the active-isolate subtype of social withdrawal, characterized by impulsivity and anger, was less likely than the non-withdrawn group to be in a current relationship ( B = −1.24, p < 0.05). This study suggests socially withdrawn children in the United States fare similarly to non-withdrawn peers in adulthood in their romantic relationships and parenting, but a subgroup of active-isolate children may be at risk of not entering adult relationships.
Generational Differences in Moral Injury, Resilience, and Well-Being Among Nurses: Predictors of Intention to Leave Position and Profession
Authors: Kim Minjin , Jun Jin , Lambert Joshua , Duah Henry , Tucker Sharon J. , O’Mathúna Dónal P. , Pignatiello Grant , Fitzpatrick Joyce J.
Published: October 2024

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the negative impact of moral injury on nurses’ well-being. However, there is a lack of research about generational differences among nurses, particularly on newer nurses who have been identified as having a higher rate of intention to leave.

Objective:

This study examines generational differences among nurses on moral injury, well-being, resilience, and intention to leave their nursing position and profession.

Methods:

This is a secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from registered nurses in clinical practice in Ohio between July and August 2021. Data on demographics, moral injury, resilience, and well-being were collected using an online survey. Participants were categorized into 4 generational groups based on their age in 2021: Baby Boomers (57-75 years old), Generation X (42-56 years old), Generation Y (27-41 years old), and Generation Z (12-26 years old). Descriptive and inferential statistics, including logistic regression and analysis of variance, were employed for analysis.

Results:

Significant generational differences were found in years of clinical experience, moral injury, resilience, and well-being. Baby Boomers reported higher well-being and resilience and lower moral injury. Notably, the intention to leave the profession was more strongly associated with well-being and moral injury levels than with the years of experience or generational group.

Conclusions:

The findings suggest that interventions to improve nurse retention should prioritize enhancing well-being and addressing the root causes of moral injury. Tailored strategies addressing the needs of different generations are necessary for mitigating the adverse effects of current healthcare challenges on nurse attrition.
The associations between mothers’ and grandmothers’ self-control, mother-grandmother coparenting relationships and caregiver-child attachment: An actor-partner interdependence mediation model
Authors: Tan Yuxin , Wu Dazhou , Yang Liangliang , Xi Xiaoxi , Jiang Huailiu , Zhu Jie , Ming Qiao , Lin Xiuyun
Published: October 2024

More and more grandparents are involved in parenting and share the responsibility of raising children with parents in China. Less is known, however, regarding the mutual effects of caregivers on children in intergenerational coparenting families. This study aimed to examine how mothers’ and grandmothers’ self-control, mother-grandmother coparenting relationships, and caregiver-child attachment were associated and to investigate whether the pathways were different in mother-child and grandmother-child dyads. Participants were mothers and grandmothers from 501 intergenerational coparenting households. The results from Actor-Partner Interdependence Mediation Modeling (APIMeM) indicated that mothers’ and grandmothers’ self-control were indirectly related to their own caregiver-child attachment through their self-report coparenting relationships. Additionally, the effect of mothers’ self-control spilled over to the grandmother-child attachment through grandmothers’ self-report coparenting relationships. Overall, the findings indicated that mothers’ and grandmothers’ self-control, mother-grandmother coparenting relationships, and their attachment to the child significantly differed between mother-child dyads and grandmother-child dyads. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of women caregiver-child attachment processes and highlight the implications of using the dyadic approach in understanding and improving family functioning in intergenerational coparenting families, which provide implications for family interventions.
Design and development of an eHealth intervention to support self-management in people with musculoskeletal disorders: ‘eHealth: it's TIME’
Authors: Kelly Marie , M. Fullen Brona , Martin Denis , Bradley Colin , O’Riain Eoghan , McVeigh Joseph G
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to co-design and develop a user-centred, theory-based eHealth-mediated self-management support follow-up prototype for adults with musculoskeletal disorders.

Design

A three-step system development cycle was employed. Step 1 involved creating intervention features and content, with two focus groups reviewing prioritised eHealth intervention elements based on earlier research. Step 2 involved heuristic testing using Nielsen's 10 heuristic principles. Step 3 incorporated qualitative think-aloud interviews and the System Usability Scale.

Setting

Republic of Ireland.

Participants

Step 1 included adults with musculoskeletal disorders ( n = 12). Step 2 involved five reviewers. Step 3 included people with musculoskeletal disorders ( n = 5) and musculoskeletal physiotherapists ( n = 5).

Results

Participants in step 1 approved four main intervention components, which map to recognised theoretical frameworks, and suggested increased use of visual and interactive elements. Heuristic testing in step 2 identified design and navigation issues. In Step 3, usability testing, additional navigation, content and design recommendations were identified. The overall median system usability score (interquartile range) was 75 (0) out of 100 for adults with musculoskeletal disorders and 77.5 (2.5) out of 100 for musculoskeletal physiotherapists, indicating good usability.

Conclusion

A theory-based, user-centred eHealth-mediated follow-up self-management support prototype has been developed for people with musculoskeletal disorders, with the next steps focusing on feasibility testing in clinical practice, with a more diverse population.
Rapid and sustained reduction of treatment-resistant PTSD symptoms after intravenous ketamine in a real-world, psychedelic paradigm
Authors: MacConnel Henry A , Earleywine Mitch , Radowitz Steven
Published: October 2024

Background:

Traditional treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often show limited success with high dropout. Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist known for rapid antidepressant effects, has decreased PTSD symptoms in some studies but not in others. Administering ketamine in ways that parallel psychedelic-assisted treatments—including preparatory, integration, sensory immersion, and psychotherapy sessions—could decrease PTSD symptoms meaningfully.

Methods:

A retrospective sample of 117 screened outpatients with elevated PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) scores received intravenous ketamine in supportive environments. The protocol included preparation, intention-setting, and integration sessions accompanying at least six administrations. Administration sessions included eye shades and evocative music paralleling typical psychedelic therapy trials.

Results:

Mean PCL scores decreased from 52.54 (SD = 12.01) to 28.78 (SD = 16.61), d = 1.64. Patients tolerated treatment well, with no serious adverse events. Covariates, including age, gender, days between PCL assessments, number of psychiatric medications, and suicidal ideation were not significant moderators; concomitant psychotherapy did reach significance, d = 0.51. Of the 117 patients’ final PCL scores, 88 (75.21%) measures suggested clinically meaningful improvement and 72 (61.54%) suggested remission of PTSD symptoms.

Conclusion:

Intravenous ketamine in supportive environments, with hallmarks of psychedelic therapy, preceded large reductions in PTSD symptoms. These results highlight ketamine’s potential when delivered in this manner, suggesting environmental factors might account for some variation seen in previous work. Given the molecule’s cost, minimal interaction with other psychiatric medications, and legal status, intravenous ketamine in a psychedelic paradigm may be a promising option for PTSD unresponsive to other treatments.
Intravenous administration of muse cells improves cerebral ischemia outcome via immunomodulation in the spleen
Authors: Kato Yuya , Aburakawa Daiki , Tashiro Ryosuke , Zhou Yuan , Rashad Sherif , Endo Hidenori , Tominaga Teiji , Niizuma Kuniyasu
Published: October 2024

Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of disability and death globally. Stem cell therapies are emerging as a frontier for enhancing post-stroke recovery, with Muse cells—a subclass of pluripotent stem cells—demonstrating considerable promise. Muse cells are notable not only for their potential in cell replacement but also for their role in modulating immune responses following cerebral infarction. In the present study, we administered Muse cells intravenously to mice after inducing a stroke via distal middle cerebral artery occlusion. We evaluated motor outcomes, splenocyte populations, cytokine profiles, and gene expression 2 weeks after inducing stroke. Additionally, comparisons were drawn between outcomes in splenectomized mice and those receiving adoptive splenocyte transfer to discern the specific influence of the spleen on treatment efficacy. Our findings revealed that Muse cell therapy facilitates motor recovery, an effect that is compromised in the absence of the spleen. Spleens in treated mice exhibited a shift in neutrophil counts, increased cytokine activity, and a notable uptick in the expression of genes related to protein folding. These insights affirm the potential therapeutic effect of Muse cells in post-stroke treatment strategies, with their efficacy attributed, at least in part, to immunomodulatory pathways involving the spleen.
Revolutionizing Dance Education Through the Assessment of Online Videoconferencing to Increase Participation in Dance: Learning Philippine Traditional Dances
Authors: Lobo Joseph , Tanucan Jem Cloyd , Camarador Rhene , Azim Al , Setiawan Edi , Arao Hans Freyzer , Fernando Leanjo
Published: October 2024

The present study investigated the determinants affecting students’ actual use through the use of a video-conferencing platform, and how actual use affects dance engagement, for enhancing the learning experience in the domain of dance education, particularly Philippine Traditional Dances. Therefore, this predictive-causal study aimed to assess the effect of actual use (by adopting Technology Acceptance Model) to dance engagement from a total sample of 1,741 students by using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling. It was observed that perceived ease of use directly affects perceived usefulness; both PEOU and PU impacts Behavioral Intention and Actual Use; and BI leverages Actual Use of the videoconferencing platform. Moreover, it was also found that AU strengthens Dance Engagement. Findings indicate that students may benefit greatly from using the videoconferencing platform that may significantly bolster their dance engagement in learning Philippine traditional dances, but with some obstacles that needs to be taken into consideration.
Air-cooling process modelling for cord steel based on fusion approach of mechanism and artificial neural network
Authors: Chen Long , He Fei , Zhang Zhiyan , Chou Mabel
Published: October 2024

In this study, a modelling approach is introduced that fuses the mechanistic model with an artificial neural network (ANN) during the cord steel manufacturing. This involves replacing certain mechanistic calculations with ANN representations, optimizing mechanistic parameters through ANN techniques, and implanting mechanistic equations into the ANN framework to achieve more accurate and efficient calculations of the cooling process. The mechanistic parameters come from the models including Natural Convection Heat Transfer, Forced Convection Heat Transfer, Radiation Heat Transfer and Phase Transition during the air-cooling process. The model demonstrated an average error of 8.6 °C and 5.4 °C, compared to measurement values from two temperature sensors on the air-cooling line, and an average error of 3.3 °C relative to manually obtained temperature.
Influence of Platelet Concentration on the Clinical Outcome of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Boffa Angelo , De Marziani Luca , Andriolo Luca , Di Martino Alessandro , Romandini Iacopo , Zaffagnini Stefano , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Background:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is one of the most frequently used orthobiologic products for the injection treatment of patients affected by knee osteoarthritis (OA). Some preliminary evidence supports the influence of platelet concentration on patients’ clinical outcomes.

Purpose:

To analyze if platelet concentration can influence the safety and clinical efficacy of PRP injections for the treatment of patients with knee OA.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This study consisted of 253 patients with knee OA (142 men, 111 women; mean ± SD age, 54.8 ± 11.4 years; Kellgren-Lawrence grades 1-3) who were treated with 3 intra-articular injections of 5 mL of autologous leukocyte-rich or leukocyte-poor PRP. All patients were prospectively evaluated at baseline and at 2, 6, and 12 months. Patients were clinically assessed thorough the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective score. Platelet concentration was correlated with clinical outcome. Further analysis was performed by stratifying patients into 3 groups (homogeneous for OA severity) based on platelet concentration (high, medium, and low). All complications and adverse events were reported, as well as failures.

Results:

An overall statistically significant improvement in all clinical scores was documented from baseline to each follow-up evaluation. Platelet concentration positively correlated with clinical outcome. KOOS Pain improved more with higher platelet concentration at 2 months ( P = .036; rho = 0.132), 6 months ( P = .009; rho = 0.165), and 12 months ( P = .014; rho = 0.155). The same trend was shown by the other KOOS subscales and by the IKDC Subjective score, as well as by the comparison of the groups of high-, medium-, and low-platelet PRP. The highest failure rate (15.0%) was found in the low-platelet group as compared with the medium-platelet group (3.3%) and the high-platelet group (3.3%). No differences were observed among the 3 groups in terms of adverse events.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that platelet concentration influences the clinical outcome of PRP injections in knee OA treatment. PRP with a higher platelet concentration provides a lower failure rate and higher clinical improvement as compared with PRP with a lower platelet concentration, with overall better results up to 12 months of follow-up in patients with knee OA.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation ameliorate hepatic injury in brain death rat donors with hemodynamic instability
Authors: Yang Jianbao , Li Jian , Zhuoga Awang , Yu Zeyuan , Li Yongnan , Jiao Zuoyi
Published: October 2024

Background:

Donation after brain death (DBD) serves as the primary source for liver transplantation. However, livers obtained through DBD often incur damage due to unstable hemodynamics, potentially impacting transplantation outcomes. Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) emerges as an optimal technique for donor liver retrieval and has found application in clinical settings. Despite its clinical implementation, the precise mechanisms through which ECMO enhances liver functions remain elusive. This study aims to investigate the mechanisms underlying how ECMO ameliorates liver function in brain-dead donors.

Methods:

We randomly assigned 18 male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (350 ± 50 g) into three groups: Con ( n = 6), DBD-assisted drug ( n = 6), and DBD-assisted ECMO ( n = 6). After 3 h of ECMO, the rats were sacrificed. We assessed and compared changes in heart rate, blood pressure, cumulative liver damage (evaluated through HE and TUNEL staining), serum levels of AST and ALT, alterations in serum oxidative stress factors (MDA, H2O2, SOD, and 8-OHdG), and serum concentrations of related inflammatory factors (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α) among rats in the Con, DBD-assisted drug, and DBD-assisted ECMO groups. Subsequently, we established a rat orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) model and transplanted livers obtained through the aforementioned methods. The post-transplantation status of the livers was observed.

Results:

After 3 h of brain death, liver injury worsened, accompanied by a significant increase in serum transaminases, inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and TUNEL staining. Strikingly, ECMO not only stabilized hemodynamics after DBD but also mitigated liver damage, leading to an alleviated status post liver transplantation.

Conclusions:

ECMO stabilizes hemodynamics, attenuates inflammatory responses and oxidative stress, thereby enhancing the quality of liver grafts for transplantation.
Attendance, Wellness, and Engagement: The AWE Model of Workplace Satisfaction
Authors: Tisdelle Loren
Published: October 2024

The Attendance, Wellness, and Engagement (AWE) Model of Workplace Satisfaction is an innovative approach to promoting a sustainable, healthy, and engaged workforce. Implemented at Louis Brier Home and Hospital, the AWE Model encapsulates a people strategy aimed at nurturing a supportive and fulfilling work environment. Attendance promotion is accomplished by acknowledging absences while providing a comprehensive support system to address personal challenges faced by healthcare workers. The wellness component is underscored by increasing resource utilization, offering on-site health services, and cultivating social groups to enhance holistic well-being. Additionally, engagement is characterized by staff recognition rituals, community-building initiatives, and celebratory events. Importantly, this article presents a compelling position that the AWE Model creates a positive impact on reducing absenteeism, enhancing staff satisfaction, and transforming organizational culture. As health leaders grapple with workforce challenges, the AWE Model serves as a pragmatic framework to cultivate environments where employees regularly attend work healthy and engaged.
Neoliberalism and the Complexities of Conceptualizing Community School Policy for Racial Equity
Authors: Baxley Gwendolyn
Published: October 2024

Full-service community schools are increasingly adopted as educational policy nationwide to transform educational institutions into community hubs, addressing racial and social disparities and countering deficit narratives related to marginalized youth and families. As the movement toward community schooling as an educational policy gains momentum, more research is needed to understand the complex process of conceptualizing such an initiative for racial equity. Spanning from the early planning stages to 3 years into the implementation of community schooling, this paper uncovers the tensions that emerge as school and district leaderships’ interpretation of the purpose of community schooling and root cause of racial inequity unveil conflicting conceptualizations of the community school initiative: community schooling rooted in neoliberal ideals of efficiency, coordination, and service choice, on one hand, and those rooted in more transformative approach with systemic reflection and change in classrooms, schools, and other institutions on the other.
Dynamic modeling and reliability analysis of the ball bearing rotating accuracy considering the uncertain bearing-shaft interference fit
Authors: Liu Yongzhen , Zhang Hengyi , Hu Peng , Wang Yan
Published: October 2024

The rotating accuracy of the rolling bearing is closely related to its precision class and the actual fitting parameters. However, there are few quantitative evaluation models to describe their relationships. In this paper, considering the effect of the uncertain but bounded interference amounts between the bearing inner ring and the shaft, the Chebyshev interval analysis method is utilized and a rotating accuracy dynamic reliability model is presented based on the two degrees of freedom (2-DOF) rotor-ball bearing system. Firstly, the relationships between the bearing radial clearance and bearing-shaft interference amounts are investigated based on the shaft-bearing interference fit model. Thus, in terms of Chebyshev interval analysis method, the 2-DOF rotor-ball bearing system with uncertain bearing-shaft interference amounts is established. Then the rotating accuracy dynamic reliability model of the ball bearing is presented based on the Chebyshev interval theory. The effects of the average values and deviation coefficients of the initial interference amounts on the actual interference amounts, radial clearance and the resultant rotating accuracy dynamic reliability of the ball bearing are analyzed. The results show that the uncertain bearing-shaft interference amounts have a significant effect on the rotating accuracy dynamic reliability of the ball bearing and reasonable design could improve the rotating accuracy of the ball bearing. The results calculated by the present study are compared to the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS), which show the validity of the study.
Mesh characteristic changes of spiral bevel gear pair with assembly errors during tooth crack propagation
Authors: Li Zhanwei , He Zhongming , Zhang Juntao , Ma Hui , Zhu Rupeng
Published: October 2024

Spiral bevel gears (SBGs) are often used because of their strong carrying capacity and lower vibration. However, this heightened load capacity can sometimes result in the development of tooth surface cracks. This study aims to simulate the three-dimensional propagation of cracks in SBGs under various assembly conditions and explore how the presence of cracks affects mesh characteristics. This paper investigates crack propagation in SBGs by applying principles of fracture mechanics. Employing a combination of finite element software ABAQUS and fracture mechanics software FRANC3D, the study conducts a three-dimensional analysis of crack propagation in SBGs. The study analyzes the impact of crack propagation on the lifespan and mesh characteristics of SBGs, including crack propagation morphology, transmission error, time-varying meshing stiffness (TVMS), gear life, and tooth surface force, under various assembly errors.
Reduced ultimate-bound of tracking error convergence for ETV system with unknown upper-bound mismatched perturbation
Authors: Hameed Akram Hashim , Al-Samarraie Shibly Ahmed , Humaidi Amjad Jaleel
Published: October 2024

The electronic throttle valve (ETV) is widely used in automobile engines to obtain efficient fuel combustion, improved fuel economy, and reduced emissions. The control of the ETV system is a challenging problem due to the unmatched structure of perturbation and its unknown upper bound. As such, deep control concerns are required. For such a system, recent control approaches could partially solve the ultimate boundedness of convergence error, but they have failed to find a solution in the presence of unknown upper-bound perturbation. The contribution of this study is to develop a novel backstepping-based barrier function integral sliding mode controller (BS-BFISMC) to find a solution for the ETV system without the pre-knowledge of the upper bound of perturbation. The proposed control scheme gets the benefits of the backstepping algorithm (BS) and barrier function integral sliding mode control (BFISMC), and the combined scheme could lead to reduced ultimate-bound convergence of tracking error and result in chattering-free control action. A rigorous stability analysis has been conducted to prove the finding reached by the proposed control approach. The efficacy and effectiveness of the proposed controller have been shown by conducting a comparison study with other existing control methods; namely, conventional backstepping controller, robust continuous backstepping (CRBS), and backstepping-based quasi-integral sliding mode controller (BS-QISMC). The numerical results showed that the proposed BS-BFISMC yields the lowest level of ultimate bound of tracking errors and the least control efforts as compared to other controllers. Also, it has been shown that the proposed controller does not require the upper bound of perturbation, which is a pre-requisition of all compared controllers.
Enhanced heat transfer performance in a parabolic trough solar collector: A CFD investigation of silver and copper nanofluids utilizing porous medium
Authors: Babaei Amir , Aminian Ehsan , Saffari Hamid
Published: October 2024

A recent study was being conducted to offer a three-dimensional numerical inspection of the water–Ag/Cu nanofluids’ hydrothermal profitability within a parabolic-trough solar collector incorporating a porous medium. This study aims to improve the thermal efficiency of parabolic-trough solar collectors by integrating nanofluids and porous media into the receiver tube. The focus is on enhancing heat transfer to the working fluid for better performance. In our numerical simulation, the working fluid of water (or nanofluid) at 5 different mass flow rates of 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 L/h and with a temperature of 20°C enters the receiving pipe of a parabolic-trough solar collector while the non-constant heat flux is set on it. Copper and silver nanoparticles in volume fractions of (0.1 to 0.5%) and Darcy numbers of 0.1, 0.01, and 0.001 are simulated in applied porous media. The results of the simulations revealed that the use of a porous medium with (rp = 1 and Da = 0.1) and also in mass flow rate of 20 L/h, our receiver pipe saw a 2204.8% increase in the Nusselt number and 687.8% pressure drop, and the PEC was equal to the number 11.3. In the following, we examined copper and silver nanoparticles in two cases of applying porosity and without applying porosity in the receiving tube in volume fractions of 0.1 to 0.5%. Due to the creation of a high-pressure drop by the porous medium, nanofluids showed higher numbers for the performance evaluation criterion than unity for the non-porous state. Silver nanoparticles in volume fraction of 0.5% (at rp = 1 and Da = 0.1) showed an increase of 71.3% and 197.8%, respectively, for the Nusselt number and pressure drop. In the case of non-porous copper nanoparticles with a volume fraction of 0.5%, they showcased an uptick in 217.6% and 3.8% respectively for the Nusselt number and pressure drop.
Exploring the impact of digital economy on energy transition: Insights from natural resource rent dynamics
Authors: Li Rongrong , Guo Jiaqi , Wang Qiang , Li Changan
Published: October 2024

Digital economy is of great significance for countries to achieve energy transformation and sustainable development. However, the limited nature of natural resources has affected the development of digital economy. Although the research on digital economy and energy transition is increasing, few studies systematically link digital economy to energy transition from the perspective of natural resource rent. The FMOLS line regression and threshold nonlinear regression approaches are developed to quantify the linear and non-linear impact of digital economy on energy transition. The results of the linear model demonstrate that digital economy plays a more substantial role in driving energy transition in high-income countries compared to low- and middle-income countries. Furthermore, there exists a threshold effect of natural resource rents on the impact of digital economy on energy transition. In cases where natural resource rents are low, the development of digital economy significantly promotes energy transition. Robustness tests, such as shortening the sample period and increasing control variables, confirm the reliability of regression findings. This study contributes by uncovering regional heterogeneity in the relationship between digital economy development and energy transition. Particularly for low- and middle-income countries with low natural resource rents, fostering digital technology’s positive impact on energy transition yields higher marginal benefits. High-income countries should continue investing in innovation and research and development for sustainable energy technologies, while low- and middle-income nations should seek international financial support and investment while maintaining minimal reliance on natural resources to harness the potential advantages offered by digital technologies.
Evaluating the impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus on interstitial lung disease prevalence in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A national inpatient sample analysis
Authors: Saliba Fares , Khattar Georges , Mourad Omar , Aoun Laurence , Bou Sanayeh Elie , Arafa Fatema , Al Saidi Ibrahim , Abidor Erica , Al Achkar Michel , Rizvi Taqi , Sangaraju Koushik , Di Pietro Gaetano , Haddadin Fadi , Almardini Shaza , El Gharib Khalil , El-Hage Halim
Published: October 2024

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) increases the risk of interstitial lung disease (ILD). SLE is also linked to an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, the impact of T2DM on ILD risk in patients with SLE is still unclear. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of ILD in patients with SLE based on the presence of T2DM (SLE + T2DM+) or its absence (SLE + T2DM−).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study using the 2019–2020 National Inpatient Sample database. Adult SLE patients were identified and stratified by T2DM status. Comparable cohorts were created using propensity score matching, resulting in 10,532 patients in each cohort. Multivariate logistic regression assessed the association between T2DM and ILD.

Results

T2DM was associated with a lower prevalence of ILD in patients with SLE (OR 0.798, 95% CI: 0.695–0.918, p = .002), occurring in 371 (3.5%) patients with T2DM compared to 463 (4.4%) patients without T2DM. Specifically, this difference was mainly driven by pulmonary fibrosis, which was significantly less frequent in the T2DM group (1.3% vs 1.8%, OR 0.7, 95% CI: 0.560–0.875, p = .002). No differences were found in secondary outcomes, including death rates, length of hospital stay, ARDS, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, or pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that T2DM significantly reduced ILD risk in patients with SLE, specifically diminishing pulmonary fibrosis prevalence. Further research should explore mechanisms for this protective association between T2DM and ILD development in SLE. These findings may guide management strategies for this vulnerable population.
Moral distress among undergraduate nursing students in clinical practice: A scoping review
Authors: Santos Sara Soares dos , Godoy Simone de , Araújo Agostinho AC , Montandon Diego Santiago , Silva Ítalo Rodolfo , Gastmans Chris , Mendes Isabel Amélia Costa
Published: October 2024

Background: The ethical challenges faced by undergraduate nursing students and nurses may lead to moral distress, negatively affecting learning capacity and self-confidence and potentially influencing the quality of patient care. Objective: To examine the state of knowledge regarding the moral distress among undergraduate nursing students during clinical practice. Methods: This scoping review followed JBI guidelines. First, the LILACS, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, and ProQuest databases were consulted. Next, the reference lists of the studies included in the sample were checked. Studies exploring moral distress among undergraduate nursing students during clinical practice were included regardless of language or date of publication. Two independent reviewers simultaneously selected the studies. Results: The sample included 12 articles with different research designs. Three conditions that trigger moral distress among undergraduate nursing students emerged: Interpersonal relationships between students and preceptors/supervisors and multidisciplinary teams; interpersonal relationships between students and patients; and the relationship between students and health services. Conclusions: This review identified the various circumstances that lead to moral distress among undergraduate nursing students. Therefore, these results highlight the importance of preventing moral distress in this group through teaching, especially before students begin their clinical practices.