bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediating Influences of the Exchange Relationship with a Preceptor on the Relationship between Burnout and Job Retention Intention among New Nurses in Korea
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Yang Yaki
Published: September 2023

The main factor in the turnover of new nurses in Korea is burnout, and a high turnover rate can lead to discontinuation in the nursing profession, due to failure to adapt to the organization. This study aimed to examine the mediating influences of an exchange relationship with the preceptor on the relationship between burnout and job retention intention among new nurses in Korea. Data were collected from 210 new nurses in three general hospitals from 2 May to 30 June 2023. The following statistical analysis were conducted: t-test, ANOVA, the Scheffé test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis, and Hayes Process Macro Model 4 (to test the mediating effect). Burnout was negatively associated with job retention intention (r = −0.54, p < 0.001) and the exchange relationship with the preceptor (r = −0.29, p = 0.001). The exchange relationship with the preceptor was positively associated with job retention intention (r = 0.38, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the mediation analysis indicated that the exchange relationship with the preceptor mediated the relationship between burnout and job retention intention. According to the results, the impact of burnout on the job retention intention was mediated by the exchange relationship with the preceptor. Therefore, to increase the job retention intention of new nurses, developing programs to enhance the exchange relationship with the preceptor are recommended.
An Exploration of Student Nurses’ Experiences of Burnout during the COVID-19 Pandemic Using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI)
Authors: Cottam Charlie , Dillon Aimi , Painter Jon
Published: September 2023

Burnout amongst healthcare professionals has been a long-considered condition associated with the workplace environment. Student nurses studying at Sheffield Hallam University continued to engage in their training during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, the stressors of this experience were anecdotally highlighted to their academic staff. Furthermore, burnout can be linked to the ongoing difficulties with recruitment and retention of nursing staff within the NHS workforce. This work aimed to determine the burnout among nursing students experience by obtaining quantitative data to understand their experiences. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was used to gauge levels of burnout across the different fields of nursing students. Results identified that: (1) mental health students reported feeling tired significantly less often than child and adult field students (mean rating of 69% versus 91.7% and 84.0%, respectively); (2) students aged 30–39 feel tired significantly less often than both younger student age groups (mean rating 59.4% versus 82.8% and 90.6%); (3) there was a significant difference in how often different age groups felt “tired of working with clients” (F(4) = 2.68, p = 0.04) and that “they couldn’t take it anymore” (F(4) = 2.53, p = 0.05); (4) child-field students reported generally higher levels of global burnout (mean CBI total = 57.9%) whilst mental health students reported lower levels (mean CBI total = 54.1%). Considering these results, it is imperative for both higher education institutions and potential employers to consider the impact of COVID-19 and burnout, and the levels of support offered to student nurses during their training and transition to practice as newly qualified nurses.
State of the Art on Family and Community Health Nursing International Theories, Models and Frameworks: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gasperini Giulia , Renzi Erika , Longobucco Yari , Cianciulli Angelo , Rosso Annalisa , Marzuillo Carolina , De Vito Corrado , Villari Paolo , Massimi Azzurra
Published: September 2023

A Family and Community Health Nursing (FCHN) model was first conceptualized by the WHO approximately 25 years ago in response to the epidemiological transition leading to major changes in the population health needs. To date, no study has comprehensively explored the adherence of current applications of FCHN to the WHO original framework. We carried out a scoping review on PubMed, Scopus and CINAHL with the aim to compare the main features of FCHN models developed at the international level with the WHO’s framework. We identified 23 studies: 12 models, six service/program descriptions, four statements and one theoretical model. The FCHN models appear to focus primarily on sick individuals and their family, mainly providing direct care and relying on Interaction, Developmental and Systems Theories. While these features fit the WHO framework, others elements of the original model are poorly represented: the involvement of FCHN in prevention activities is scarce, especially in primary and secondary prevention, and little attention is paid to the health needs of the whole population. In conclusion, current applications of FCHN show a partial adherence to the WHO framework: population approaches should be strengthened in current FCHN models, with a stronger involvement of nurses in primary and secondary prevention.
The Development and Validation of the “Hippocratic Hypertension Self-Care Scale”
Authors: Brokalaki Hero , Chatziefstratiou Anastasia A. , Fotos Nikolaos V. , Giakoumidakis Konstantinos , Chatzistamatiou Evaggelos
Published: September 2023

Background: The adoption of self-care behaviors among patients with arterial hypertension (AH) plays an important role in the management of their health condition. However, a lack of scales assessing self-care is observed. We aimed to develop and validate the Hippocratic hypertension self-care scale. Methods: From a pool of questions derived from a literature review, 18 items were included in the scale and reviewed by a committee of experts. Participants indicated the frequency at which they followed the self-behavior prescribed in each statement on a five-point Likert scale. Data were collected between April 2019 and December 2019. Results: A total of 202 consecutive adult patients with AH were enrolled in the study. The internal consistency of the scale was found to be 0.807, using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. An exploratory factor analysis identified two domains that accounted for 92.94% of the variance in the scale items; however, each sub-scale could not be used as an independent scale. Finally, the test–retest of the scale showed a significant strong correlation (r = 0.0095, p < 0.001). Conclusion: This analysis indicates that the scale is reliable and valid for assessing self-care behaviors in patients with AH. It is suggested that health professionals use it in their clinical practice to improve the management of AH.
The Pharmacy of the Future: Pharmacy Professionals’ Perceptions and Contributions Regarding New Services in Community Pharmacies
Authors: Dores Artemisa R. , Peixoto Miguel , Carvalho Irene P. , Jesus Ângelo , Moreira Fernando , Marques António
Published: September 2023

The use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) has revolutionized the provision of health services, often referred to as eHealth, benefiting community pharmacies that can offer new services in innovative formats, namely through telepharmacy. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of pharmacy professionals (i.e., pharmacists and pharmacy technicians) on the provision of new services. The study consisted of administering an online questionnaire to pharmacy professionals nationwide. The questionnaire was developed by the research team, based on focus group methodology, from which an inductive analysis led to the categories that made up the dimensions of the survey. Participants were 95 pharmacy professionals with a mean age of 33.69 years old (SD = 10.75). Almost 79% were women. The results show overall receptivity to the development of new services in community pharmacies. Suggestions for the development of the new services, conditions necessary for their implementation, potential obstacles, and strategies to promote adherence to the new services, among others, are identified. The knowledge thus acquired will help community pharmacies to develop innovative solutions in counselling, pharmacotherapy monitoring, and pharmacovigilance, for example, of herb/dietary supplement–drug adverse reactions and interactions. Based on this information, new services can become more accessible, namely through the use of ICTs.
Evaluation of Blood Cultures from SARS-CoV-2-Positive and Negative Adult Patients
Authors: Akgün Karapınar Bahar , Çaklovica Küçükkaya İlvana , Bölükbaşı Yasemin , Küçükkaya Sertaç , Erköse Genç Gonca , Erturan Zayre , Ağaçfidan Ali , Öngen Betigül
Published: September 2023

Bacteremia and fungemia are significant causes of morbidity and mortality that frequently occur as co-infections with viral respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microorganisms that were isolated from the blood cultures of SARS-CoV-2-positive and negative patients and investigate their antimicrobial resistance patterns. A retrospective analysis was performed of 22,944 blood cultures sent to the laboratory between November 2020 and December 2021. Blood culture analyses were performed using the BD Bactec FX automated system. Identification was carried out using conventional methods, namely, VITEK-2 and MALDI-TOF MS. Antibacterial/antifungal susceptibility tests were performed according to EUCAST/CLSI recommendations. SARS-CoV-2 tests were performed with RT-PCR. Culture positivity was detected in 1630 samples from 652 patients. Of these 652 patients, 633 were tested for SARS-CoV-2; 118 (18.6%) were positive and 515 (81.3%) were negative. The bacteria and fungi that were isolated at the highest rate in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients were methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci (MR-CoNS) (21.5%), Escherichia coli (12.4%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (12.4%), Candida albicans (1.65%), and Candida glabrata complex (1.65%), while in the negative patients, the highest rates were for E. coli (21.3%), MR-CoNS (13.5%), K. pneumoniae (12.05%), C. albicans (2.1%), Candida parapsilosis (1.1%), and Candida tropicalis (0.9%). No statistically significant difference was determined between COVID-19-positive and negative patients in terms of detection, such as with the Pseudomonas spp., Enterococcus spp., and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the blood cultures (p > 0.05). The most common isolate was MR-CoNS in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients (p = 0.028). Acinetobacter baumannii was more frequent (p = 0.004) and carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae was isolated at a higher rate (60% vs. 43%) in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients compared to SARS-CoV-2-negative patients (p > 0.05). These findings highlight the fact that isolation procedures should not be disregarded and the distribution of bacterial/fungal agents of bloodstream infections and their antibiotic resistance should be followed up during a pandemic, such as in the case of COVID-19.
Personalised Online Upper-Limb Physiotherapy for Stroke Survivors during the Inpatient Phase: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Alhusayni Abdullah Ibrahim , Cowey Eileen Stewart , Coulter Elaine , Barber Mark , Paul Lorna
Published: September 2023

Background: After a stroke, inpatients often receive less than the recommended dose of therapy. Telerehabilitation may assist by providing personalised rehabilitation programmes without face-to-face therapy time. This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of an individualised programme of upper-limb rehabilitation that is delivered via an online rehabilitation platform for inpatient stroke survivors. Methods: Stroke survivors were recruited from three stroke units in one NHS Board in Scotland and randomised to the intervention (personalised upper-limb exercise programme delivered via an online physiotherapy platform for four weeks, up to 30 min five times per week, in addition to usual care) or the control group (usual care). The main outcomes are related to recruitment, attrition, adherence and safety. The clinical measures were the Action Research Arm Test, Trunk Impairment Scale and Modified Ashworth Scale. The intervention participants, their carers and physiotherapists completed questionnaires on the acceptability of the intervention. Results: Twenty-six participants, 42% males, were recruited around three weeks post-stroke, on average. There were 13 participants in each group, with a mean age of 69 years (SD of 12) and 67 years (SD of 11) for the control and intervention groups, respectively. Overall, 47% of those screened for eligibility were randomised, and attrition was 23% in the intervention group mainly due to discharge before the end of the intervention. Participants who adhered to their programme (completed more than two-thirds), generally those with an engaged carer, demonstrated a trend toward improved clinical outcomes. Overall, the patients, carers and physiotherapists were positive regarding the intervention. There was a total of five reported adverse events, none of which were related to the study. Conclusion: An upper-limb unsupervised exercise intervention using an online physiotherapy platform for inpatient stroke survivors is feasible, safe and acceptable to patients, carers and physiotherapists. A fully powered RCT is warranted to investigate the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of such interventions for this patient group.
Effectiveness of a Novel Endophyte Bacillus velezensis Strain B1 in the Biocontrol of Pear Postharvest Ring Rot
Authors: Yang Suling , Song Meifang , Qi Limei , Liu Guijun , Zhou Sijing , Qiao Yuchen , Wang Ping , Gu Haike , Wu Liqin
Published: September 2023

Pear ring rot caused by Botryosphaeria dothidea severely affects the quality and storage life of pear fruit. Plant endophytes are potential new sources of biocontrol agents due to their abilities to produce novel bioactive products. In this work, we focused on an endophytic strain B1, which was isolated from roots of Dendrobium huoshanense. Notably, strain B1 exhibited strongly inhibitory effects against the growth of Botryosphaeria dothidea with an inhibition rate of 73.2% after 1 week of co-cultivation. Furthermore, it displayed a broad-spectrum inhibitory activity. Strain B1 also effectively delayed the onset of ring rot caused by B. dothidea in pear fruit and reduced the lesion diameter by 73.4%. Strain B1 was identified as Bacillus velezensis based on core-genome phylogeny. Genome mining with antiSMASH revealed 13 potential gene clusters involved in antimicrobial metabolites. Three main groups of lipopeptides (surfactin, iturin and fengycin) were identified with MALDI-TOF-MS, and the lipopeptides in the inhibition zone were greatly upregulated by B. dothidea; especially, fengycin isoforms were detected with higher abundance. These results proved that lipopeptides produced by strain B1 had significant antagonistic effect on B. dothidea. In conclusion, our results suggest that strain B1 has potential applications in the biocontrol of B. dothidea in postharvest fruit.
Unveiling the Significance of FGF8 Overexpression in Orchestrating the Progression of Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Chandra Kumari Binita , Kumar Vikrant , Ranjan Swati , Saini Abhinav , Tomar Anil Kumar , Sharma Jai Bhagwan , Mathur Sandeep R. , Yadav Savita
Published: September 2023

The asymptomatic nature, high rate of disease recurrence, and resistance to platinum-based chemotherapy highlight the need to identify and characterize novel target molecules for ovarian cancer. Fibroblast growth factor 8 (FGF8) aids in the development and metastasis of ovarian cancer; however, its definite role is not clear. We employed ELISA and IHC to examine the expression of FGF8 in the saliva and tissue samples of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients and controls. Furthermore, various cell assays were conducted to determine how FGF8 silencing influences ovarian cancer cell survival, adhesion, migration, and invasion to learn more about the functions of FGF8. In saliva samples, from controls through low-grade to high-grade EOC, a stepped overexpression of FGF8 was observed. Similar expression trends were seen in tissue samples, both at protein and mRNA levels. FGF8 gene silencing in SKOV3 cells adversely affected various cell properties essential for cancer cell survival and metastasis. A substantial reduction was observed in the cell survival, cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix, migration, and adhesion properties of SKOV3 cells, suggesting that FGF8 plays a crucial role in the development of EOC. Conclusively, this study suggests a pro-metastatic function of FGF8 in EOC.
Isolinderalactone Induces Apoptosis, Autophagy, Cell Cycle Arrest and MAPK Activation through ROS–Mediated Signaling in Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Chen Jith-Shyan , Chiu Sheng-Chun , Huang Sung-Ying , Chang Shu-Fang , Liao Kuan-Fu
Published: September 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Isolinderalactone (ILL), a sesquiterpene isolated from the root extract of Lindera aggregata, has been reported to exhibit anti–proliferative and anti–metastatic activities in various cancer cell lines. However, the mechanisms associated with its antitumor effects on CRC cells remain unclear. ILL treatment significantly suppressed proliferation and induced cell cycle G2/M arrest in CRC cells by inhibiting the expression of cyclin B, p–cdc2, and p–cdc25c and up–regulating the expression of p21. In addition, ILL induced mitochondria–associated apoptosis through the up–regulation of cleaved –caspase–9 and –3 expression. ILL induced autophagy by increasing the levels of LC3B in CRC cells, which was partially rescued by treatment with an autophagy inhibitor (chloroquine). Furthermore, ILL increases the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activates the MAPK pathway. Application of the ROS scavenger, N–acetyl cysteine (NAC), effectively inhibited ILL toxicity and reversed ILL–induced apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and ERK activation. Taken together, these results suggest that ILL induces G2/M phase arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy and activates the MAPK pathway via ROS–mediated signaling in human CRC cells.
Jaw Bone Invasion of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Is Associated with Osteoclast Count and Expression of Its Regulating Proteins in Patients and Organoids
Authors: de Kort Willem W. B. , Haakma Wisse E. , van Es Robert J. J. , Gawlitta Debby , Driehuis Else , Gansevoort Merel , Willems Stefan M.
Published: September 2023

Aims: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) frequently invades the jaw. The exact mechanism of bone invasion remains unclear. This study investigates (premature) osteoclasts and the expression of its differentiation regulating proteins RANKL, OPG and RANK in patients with OSCC. Methods: Resection specimens from OSCC patients were divided into NI group (No Invasion), E group (Erosion) or I group (bone Invasion). Tissue sections were stained with Cathepsin K (osteoclast-counting), RANKL, OPG and RANK. The staining intensity was scored on different regions of the tumor: front, center, back and normal mucosa. Immunohistochemistry and qPCR for RANKL/OPG/RANK were performed on five head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) organoids. Results: The mean number of osteoclasts (I group) and premature osteoclasts (E group) was significantly higher compared to the NI group (p = 0.003, p = 0.036). RANKL expression was significantly higher in the tumor front and tumor center compared to normal mucosa (all groups). In the I group, RANKL and RANK expression was significantly higher in the tumor front compared to the tumor back and there was a trend of higher RANKL expression in the tumor front compared to the E group and NI group. qPCR showed a 20–43 times higher RANKL mRNA expression in three out of five tumor organoids compared to a normal squamous cell organoid line. There was no correlation between protein and mRNA expression in the HNSCC organoids. Conclusions: These findings suggest that OSCCs induce bone invasion by stimulating osteoclast activation by regulating the production of RANKL and RANK proteins.
Adrenal Gland Necrosis in Pregnancy: How to Manage? Case Series at Nantes University Hospital and Literature Review
Authors: Guyon Mathilde , Degez Manon , Artifoni Mathieu , Goronflot Thomas , Misbert Emilie , Dochez Vincent , Winer Norbert
Published: September 2023

Adrenal necrosis is a rare but serious cause of abdominal pain of thrombotic origin during pregnancy. There is often a delay in diagnosis and treatment. The objective was to specify the clinical and paraclinical signs suggestive of adrenal necrosis, making it possible to improve the delay in diagnostic. The secondary objective was to establish a multidisciplinary protocol regarding management. This is a case report of pregnant women with a radiological diagnosis of adrenal gland necrosis. In parallel, we carried out a systematic review in the same period. We studied these patients’ clinical, biological and radiological data. We included eight patients with a computed tomography scan diagnosis of adrenal necrosis and fifteen articles in the literature describing twenty-four cases. All the patients presented with the same symptoms. The treatment was based on curative anticoagulation. The diagnosis of adrenal gland necrosis is worth suggesting in view of the array of sudden morphine-resistant abdominal pain associated with a biological inflammatory syndrome. The diagnosis is based on the computed tomography scan. Three to six months of curative anticoagulation is recommended as well as a thrombophilia and endocrinological assessment to rule out adrenal insufficiency.
Accuracy of Patient-Specific Implants in Virtually Planned Segmental Le Fort I Osteotomies
Authors: Kuehle Reinald , Scheurer Mats , Bouffleur Frederic , Fuchs Jennifer , Engel Michael , Hoffmann Jürgen , Freudlsperger Christian
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: In orthognathic surgery, segmental Le Fort I osteotomies are a valuable method to correct maxillary deformities or transversal discrepancies. However, these procedures are technically challenging, and osteosynthesis can be prone to error. (2) Methods: In this retrospective, monocentric cohort study, patients were enrolled who underwent a virtually planned segmental maxillary osteotomy during their combined treatment. Positioning and osteosynthesis were achieved by either a 3D-printed splint and conventional miniplates or patient-specific implants (PSI). The preoperative CT data, virtual planning data, and postoperative CBCT data were segmented. The deviation of all the segments from the desired virtually planned position was measured using the analysis function of IPS CaseDesigner. (3) Results: 28 Patients in the PSI Group and 22 in the conventional groups were included. The PSI group showed significantly lower deviation from the planned position anteroposteriorly (−0.63 ± 1.62 mm vs. −1.3 ± 2.54 mm) and craniocaudally (−1.39 ± 1.59 mm vs. −2.7 ± 3.1 mm). For rotational deviations, the pitch (0.64 ± 2.59° vs. 2.91 ± 4.08°), as well as the inward rotation of the lateral segments, was positively influenced by PSI. (4). Conclusions: The presented data show that patient-specific osteosynthesis significantly reduces deviations from the preoperative plan in virtually planned cases. Transversal expansions and vertical positioning can be addressed better.
Transcultural Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the Spanish Version of the Pain Attitudes and Beliefs Scale for Physiotherapists
Authors: Díaz-Fernández Ángeles , Ortega-Martínez Ana Raquel , Cortés-Pérez Irene , Ibáñez-Vera Alfonso Javier , Obrero-Gaitán Esteban , Lomas-Vega Rafael
Published: September 2023

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the main musculoskeletal pain conditions, and it affects 23–28% of the global population. Strong evidence supports the absence of a direct relationship between the intensity of pain and tissue damage, with psychosocial factors also playing a crucial role. In this context, the Pain Attitudes and Beliefs Scale for Physiotherapists (PABS-PT) is a useful tool for evaluating physiotherapists’ treatment orientations and beliefs regarding the management of low back pain (LBP). It helps identify practitioners who may benefit from additional education in modern pain neuroscience. However, there is not a Spanish validation of this scale for physiotherapists. Thus, the aims of this study were to translate and culturally adapt the Pain Attitudes and Beliefs Scale for Physiotherapists (PABS-PT) into Spanish and to evaluate its psychometric properties. This validation study used three convenience samples of physiotherapists (PTs) (n = 22 for the pilot study, n = 529 for the validity study and n = 53 for assessing the instrument’s responsiveness). The process of translating and adapting the PABS-PT into Spanish followed international guidelines and produced a satisfactory pre-final version of the questionnaire. Factor analysis confirmed the two-factor structure of the original version, with the biomedical (BM) factor explaining 39.4% of the variance and the biopsychosocial (BPS) factor explaining 13.8% of the variance. Cronbach’s alpha values were excellent for the BM factor (0.86) and good for the BPS factor (0.77), indicating good internal consistency. Test–retest reliability was excellent for both factors, with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of 0.84 for BM and 0.82 for BPS. The standard error of measurement (SEM) was acceptable for both factors (3.9 points for BM and 2.4 points for BPS). Concurrent validity was moderate and in the expected direction and had significant correlations with the Health Care Providers’ Pain and Impairment Relationship Scale (HC-PAIRS) and Revised Neurophysiology Pain Questionnaire (R-NPQ). Sensitivity to change was demonstrated by significant improvements in both factors after an educational intervention, with medium-to-large effect sizes. The PABS-PT also showed good discriminative ability, as it was able to distinguish between physiotherapists with and without pain education. Cut-off values for the BM and BPS factors were determined. In conclusion, the translated and adapted Spanish version of the PABS-PT demonstrated good psychometric properties and can be reliably used to assess the attitudes and beliefs of Spanish-speaking physiotherapists regarding LBP. The questionnaire is recommended for use in clinical and educational research in the Spanish language context.
Regulation and Function of FOXC1 in Osteoblasts
Authors: Suthon Sarocha , Lin Jianjian , Perkins Rachel S. , Miranda-Carboni Gustavo A. , Krum Susan A.
Published: September 2023

Estrogens, which bind to estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), are important for proper bone mineral density. When women go through menopause, estrogen levels decrease, and there is a decrease in bone quality, along with an increased risk for fractures. We previously identified an enhancer near FOXC1 as the most significantly enriched binding site for estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) in osteoblasts. FOXC1 is a transcription factor belonging to a large group of proteins known as forkhead box genes and is an important regulator of bone formation. Here, we demonstrate that 17β-estradiol (E2) increases the mRNA and protein levels of FOXC1 in primary mouse and human osteoblasts. GATA4 is a pioneer factor for ERα and it is also recruited to enhancers near Foxc1. Knockdown of Gata4 in mouse osteoblasts in vitro decreases Foxc1 expression as does knockout of Gata4 in vivo. Functionally, GATA4 and FOXC1 interact and regulate osteoblast proteins such as RUNX2, as demonstrated by ChIP-reChIP and luciferase assays. The most enriched motif in GATA4 binding sites from ChIP-seq is for FOXC1, supporting the notion that GATA4 and FOXC1 cooperate in regulating osteoblast differentiation. Together, these data demonstrate the interactions of the transcription factors ERα, GATA4, and FOXC1 to regulate each other’s expression and other osteoblast differentiation genes.
FFC-NMR Power Supply with Hybrid Control of the Semiconductor Devices
Authors: Roque António , Sousa Duarte M. , Sebastião Pedro J. , Silva Vítor , Margato Elmano
Published: September 2023

The performance of FFC-NMR power supplies is evaluated not only considering the technique requirements but also comparing efficiencies and power consumption. Since the characteristics of FFC-NMR power supplies depend on the power circuit topology and on the control solutions, the control design is a core aspect for the development of new FFC systems. A new hybrid solution is described that allows controlling the power of semiconductors by switches (ON/OFF mode) or as a linear device. The approach avoids over-design of the power supply and makes it possible to implement new low power solutions constituting a novel design by joining a continuous match between the ON/OFF mode and the linear control of the power semiconductor devices.
Proportioning Test on the Similar Materials of the Rock Mass Physical Model Test Considering Seepage and Dynamic Characteristics
Authors: Shi Wanpeng , Zhang Jianwei , Xin Chunlei , Song Danqing , Hu Nan , Li Bowei
Published: September 2023

With the development of infrastructure construction, an increasing number of projects are faced with the problem of hydraulic and dynamic coupling. However, traditional physical model materials mainly consider the single factor influence and lack comprehensive research on the hydraulic and dynamic parameters of similar materials. Based on the dimensionless criterion and Buckingham π theorem, the dimension and similarity relation of physical model tests of rock masses under seepage and dynamic coupling are derived. A new type of similar material considering hydraulic and dynamic properties was developed by using quartz sand, barite powder, cement, water glass, rosin, and glycerol as raw materials through a large number of orthogonal tests. Meanwhile, the sensitivity analysis of the physical and mechanical properties of similar materials was carried out and the influence of each component factor on the physical properties was revealed. A material preparation scheme was developed to meet the physical and hydraulic characteristics of different rock and soil physical models. An empirical matching formula considering each parameter is proposed. This work can provide an important reference for physical model tests of similar rock masses.
A Decision Support System Using Fuzzy Logic for Collision Avoidance in Multi-Vessel Situations at Sea
Authors: Brcko Tanja , Luin Blaž
Published: September 2023

The increasing traffic and complexity of navigation at sea require advanced decision support systems to ensure greater safety. In this study, we propose a novel decision support system that employs fuzzy logic to improve situational awareness and to assist navigators in collision avoidance during multi-vessel encounters. The system is based on the integration of the rules of the Convention on International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and artificial intelligence techniques. The proposed decision model consists of two main modules to calculate the initial encounter conditions for the target vessels, evaluate the collision risk and navigation situation based on COLREG rules, sort the target vessels, and determine the most dangerous vessel. Fuzzy logic is used to calculate the collision avoidance maneuver for the selected ship, considering the closest point of approach, relative bearing, and the ship’s own speed. Simulation tests demonstrate the effectiveness of the fuzzy-based decision model in scenarios with two ships. However, in complex situations with multiple ships, the performance of the model is affected by possible conflicts between evasive maneuvers. This highlights the need for a cooperative collision avoidance algorithm for all vessels in high traffic areas.
Application of Machine Learning Techniques to the Maritime Industry
Authors: Gómez Ruiz Miguel Ángel , de Almeida Iván Martín , Pérez Fernández Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

The maritime industry is displaying notable interest in the adoption of cutting-edge technologies within the scope of Industry 4.0, aiming to digitalize both companies and processes. At the core of data science lies machine learning, which serves as the focal point of this article. This study seeks to accomplish two main objectives: firstly, an exploration of various machine learning algorithms, and subsequently, the application of these techniques to analyze predictions within the propulsion system of a 9500 TEU container ship. The outcomes of the study reveal that utilizing distinct machine learning algorithms for predicting braking performance yields a lower mean square error (MSE) when compared to the discrepancy introduced by the J. Mau formula, as evident in the container ship database. The selection of propulsion engines was based on predictions for a 9500 TEU container ship. Similarly, promising outcomes were achieved in predicting propeller diameter in comparison to conventional methods. Thus, these predictions can also effectively guide the appropriate choice of propeller diameter.
A Machine-Learning Approach Based on Attention Mechanism for Significant Wave Height Forecasting
Authors: Shi Jiao , Su Tianyun , Li Xinfang , Wang Fuwei , Cui Jingjing , Liu Zhendong , Wang Jie
Published: September 2023

Significant wave height (SWH) is a key parameter for monitoring the state of waves. Accurate and long-term SWH forecasting is significant to maritime shipping and coastal engineering. This study proposes a transformer model based on an attention mechanism to achieve the forecasting of SWHs. The transformer model can capture the contextual information and dependencies between sequences and achieves continuous time series forecasting. Wave scale classification is carried out according to the forecasting results, and the results are compared with gated recurrent unit (GRU) and long short-term memory (LSTM) machine-learning models and the key laboratory of MArine Science and NUmerical Modeling (MASNUM) numerical wave model. The results show that the machine-learning models outperform the MASNUM within 72 h, with the transformer being the best model. For continuous 12 h, 24 h, 36 h, 48 h, 72 h, and 96 h forecasting, the average mean absolute errors (MAEs) of the test sets were, respectively, 0.139 m, 0.186 m, 0.223 m, 0.254 m, 0.302 m, and 0.329 m, and the wave scale classification accuracies were, respectively, 91.1%, 99.4%, 86%, 83.3%, 78.9%, and 77.5%. The experimental results validate that the transformer model can achieve continuous and accurate SWH forecasting, as well as accurate wave scale classification and early warning of waves, providing technical support for wave monitoring.
New Insights into Alpine Cortinariaceae (Basidiomycota): Three New Species, Two Type Revisions, and a New Record for the Alpine Zone
Authors: Bellanger Jean-Michel , Armada François , Fellin Alessandro , Moreau Pierre-Arthur
Published: September 2023

Thirty-one alpine species of Cortinarius (Agaricales, Cortinariaceae) were described from the alpine zone of the Alps during the second half of the XX century, by the Swiss mycologist Jules Favre, and by the French mycologists Denise Lamoure and Marcel Bon. Notoriously difficult to identify by macro- and microscopical characters, most of these species, which belong to subgen. Telamonia, have been thoroughly revised in global publications based on type sequencing. Recent surveys in the alpine areas of France (Savoie) and Italy (Lombardy), as well as the sequencing of D. Lamoure’s collections, identified three new species that are here described and illustrated: C. dryadophilus in sect. Castanei, C. infidus in sect. Verni, and C. saniosopygmaeus in sect. Saniosi. The holotypes of C. caesionigrellus Lamoure and C. paleifer var. brachyspermus Lamoure could be sequenced. A recent collection of the former is described and illustrated here for the first time, and based on available data, the latter name is recombined as Cortinarius flexipes var. brachyspermus comb. nov. Lastly, C. argenteolilacinus var. dovrensis is reported from the alpine zone for the first time and a new combination, Thaxterogaster dovrensis comb. & stat. nov. is introduced in the present work.
Development of Simple Sequence Repeat Markers and Genetic Diversity Evaluation of Mycocentrospora acerina in Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Wang Huiling , Yang Kuan , Huang Hongping , Guo Liwei , He Xiahong
Published: September 2023

Round spot is a destructive disease that limits of Panax notoginseng production in China. However, the genetic diversity of its etiological agent Mycocentrospora acerina has yet to be studied. In this work, firstly, we developed 32 M. acerina polymorphic microsatellite markers using MISA and CERVUS 3.0 and selected 14 for further analysis. Then, we studied the genetic diversity of 187 isolates collected from P. notoginseng round spot using simple sequence repeat markers and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The genetic diversity ranged from 0.813 to 0.946, with 264 alleles detected at the 14 microsatellite loci. The expected average heterozygosity was 0.897.
Research on Forest Ecological Product Value Evaluation and Conversion Efficiency: Case Study from Pearl River Delta, China
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Liu Wei , Kong Fanbing
Published: September 2023

Exploring an effective scientific method to measure the economic benefits of ecological products is of great significance for green development. Based on the InVEST model, this paper, taking the Pearl River Delta (PRD) as an example, evaluated the FEPs value in the PRD from 2000 to 2015; using a super-efficient DEA model, the conversion efficiency of ecological products was estimated, and its temporal and spatial variation characteristics were analyzed using the Malmquist index. The results showed that the value of FEPs in the PRD shot up during 2000–2015, and that the regulation services value is the main part of FEPs, followed by the value of cultural service. The overall conversion efficiency of FEPs is improving. However, cities differ greatly. Technical efficiency is the key driving factor for improving forest product conversion efficiency. The main reasons for the current efficiency loss are redundant inputs and insufficient outputs. This paper also suggests that conversion efficiency is a convincing method to evaluate the degree of transformation of ecological environment resources into economic benefits and the degree of ecological and economic coordinated development.
Singing Songs Facilitates L2 Pronunciation and Vocabulary Learning: A Study with Chinese Adolescent ESL Learners
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Baills Florence , Prieto Pilar
Published: September 2023

The present study assesses the effect of a three-session classroom-based training program involving singing songs with familiar melodies on second-language pronunciation and vocabulary learning. Ninety-five adolescent Chinese ESL learners (M = 14.04 years) were assigned to one of two groups. Participants learned the lyrics in English of three songs whose melodies were familiar to them either by singing or reciting the lyrics, following a native English singer/instructor. Before and after training, participants performed two vocabulary tasks (picture-naming and word meaning recall tasks) and two pronunciation tasks (word and sentence oral-reading tasks). The results revealed that although both groups showed gains in vocabulary and pronunciation after training, the singing group outperformed the speech group. These findings support the value of using songs with familiar melodies to teach second languages at the early stages of learning in an ESL classroom context.
Stochastic Multi-Objective Scheduling of a Hybrid System in a Distribution Network Using a Mathematical Optimization Algorithm Considering Generation and Demand Uncertainties
Authors: Hadi Abdulwahid Ali , Al-Razgan Muna , Fakhruldeen Hassan Falah , Churampi Arellano Meryelem Tania , Mrzljak Vedran , Arabi Nowdeh Saber , Moghaddam Mohammad Jafar Hadidian
Published: September 2023

In this paper, stochastic scheduling of a hybrid system (HS) composed of a photovoltaic (PV) array and wind turbines incorporated with a battery storage (HPV/WT/Batt) system in the distribution network was proposed to minimize energy losses, the voltage profile, and the HS cost, and to improve reliability in shape of the energy-not-supplied (ENS) index, considering energy-source generation and network demand uncertainties through the unscented transformation (UT). An improved escaping-bird search algorithm (IEBSA), based on the escape operator from the local optimal, was employed to identify the optimal location of the HS in the network in addition to the optimal quantity of PV panels, wind turbines, and batteries. The deterministic results for three configurations of HPV/WT/Batt, PV/Batt, and WT/Batt were presented, and the results indicate that the HPV/WT/Batt system is the optimal configuration with lower energy losses, voltage deviation, energy not supplied, and a lower HS energy cost than the other configurations. Deterministic scheduling according to the optimal configuration reduced energy losses, ENS, and voltage fluctuation by 33.09%, 53.56%, and 63.02%, respectively, compared to the base network. In addition, the results demonstrated that the integration of battery storage into the HPV/WT enhanced the various objectives. In addition, the superiority of IEBSA over several well-known algorithms was proved in terms of obtaining a faster convergence, better objective value, and lower HS costs. In addition, the stochastic scheduling results based on the UT revealed that the uncertainties increase the power losses, voltage deviations, ENS, and HPV/WT/Batt cost by 2.23%, 5.03%, 2.20%, and 1.91%, respectively, when compared to the deterministic scheduling.
Using the BWA (Bertaut-Warren-Averbach) Method to Optimize Crystalline Powders Such as LiFePO4
Authors: Bobyl Aleksandr , Konkov Oleg , Faradzheva Mislimat , Kasatkin Igor
Published: September 2023

The average sizes L¯i, and their dispersion Wi along the i-th axis, of crystallites in powders are used to determine X-ray diffraction sizes, Di XRD, averaged over crystallite columns within the BWA method. Numerical calculations have been carried out for an orthorhombic lattice of crystallites, such as LiFePO4, NMC, having a Lamé’s g-type superellipsoid shape. For lognormal distributions, the analytical expression for the normalized coefficient Kn has been found: Kn=Di XRD/L¯i=Kg,0+KgW2, where Kg,0 is a constant at W→0, Kg is a constant depending on the g -type shape. The dependences of Di XRD are also calculated for normal distribution. A fairly simple equation can be obtained as a result of analytical transformations in the framework of experimentally validated approximations. However, a simpler way is to carry out numerical computer calculations with subsequent approximation of the calculated curves. Using the obtained analytical expressions to control technologies from nuclear fuel to cathode materials will improve the efficiency of flexible energy network, especially storage in autonomous and standby power plants.
Adaptive Multiple Testing Procedure for Clinical Trials with Urn Allocation
Authors: Hammouri Hanan , Ali Mohammed , Alquran Marwan , Alquran Areen , Abdel Muhsen Ruwa , Alomari Belal
Published: September 2023

This work combines the Urn allocation and O’Brien and Fleming multiple testing procedure to compare two treatments in clinical trials in a novel way. It is shown that this approach overcomes the constraints that previously made it challenging to apply the original adaptive design to clinical trials. The method provides unique flexibility, enabling trials to be stopped early if one treatment shows it is superior without compromising the efficiency of the original multiple testing procedure in terms of type I error rate and power. Experimental data and simulated case examples are used to illustrate the efficacy and robustness of this original approach and its potential for usage in a variety of clinical settings.
Control for Bioethanol Production in a Pressure Swing Adsorption Process Using an Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Ramos-Martinez Moises , Torres-Cantero Carlos Alberto , Ortiz-Torres Gerardo , Sorcia-Vázquez Felipe D. J. , Avila-George Himer , Lozoya-Ponce Ricardo Eliú , Vargas-Méndez Rodolfo A. , Renteria-Vargas Erasmo M. , Rumbo-Morales Jesse Y.
Published: September 2023

This paper introduces a new approach to controlling Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) using a neural network controller based on a Model Predictive Control (MPC) process. We use a Hammerstein–Wiener (HW) model representing the real PSA process data. Then, we design an MPC-controlled model based on the HW model to maintain the bioethanol purity near 99% molar fraction. This work proposes an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) that captures the dynamics of the PSA model controlled by the MPC strategy. Both controllers are validated using the HW model of the PSA process, showing great performance and robustness against disturbances. The results show that we can follow the desired trajectory and attenuate disturbances, achieving the purity of bioethanol at a molar fraction value of 0.99 using the ANN based on the MPC strategy with 94% of fit in the control signal and a 97% fit in the purity signal, so we can conclude that our ANN can be used to attenuate disturbances and maintain purity in the PSA process.
Certain Results on Fuzzy p-Valent Functions Involving the Linear Operator
Authors: Ali Ekram Elsayed , Vivas-Cortez Miguel , Ali Shah Shujaat , Albalahi Abeer M.
Published: September 2023

The idea of fuzzy differential subordination is a generalisation of the traditional idea of differential subordination that evolved in recent years as a result of incorporating the idea of fuzzy set into the field of geometric function theory. In this investigation, we define some general classes of p-valent analytic functions defined by the fuzzy subordination and generalizes the various classical results of the multivalent functions. Our main focus is to define fuzzy multivalent functions and discuss some interesting inclusion results and various other useful properties of some subclasses of fuzzy p-valent functions, which are defined here by means of a certain generalized Srivastava-Attiya operator. Additionally, links between the significant findings of this study and preceding ones are also pointed out.