bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clematis sinii and C. xinhuiensis (Ranunculaceae), respectively described from Guangxi and Guangdong of China, are merged with C. meyeniana, a species widely distributed in eastern and southeastern Asia
Authors: HUANG QIAO-LAN , FEI WEN-QUN , WU HAI-SONG , ZENG YOU-PAI , YUAN QIONG , YANG QIN-ER
Published: June 2024

Based on literature consultation, specimen survey, and observations of living plants in the wild, we demonstrate that Clematis sinii and C. xinhuiensis (Ranunculaceae), respectively described from Guangxi and Guangdong of China, are not essentially different from C. meyeniana in any characters, a species widely distributed in eastern and southeastern Asia and morphologically highly variable. We therefore place both C. sinii and C. xinhuiensis in synonymy with C. meyeniana herein. Pollen morphology is not useful for distinguishing between C. meyeniana and its closely similar species. We also point out that further work is needed to thoroughly clear up much of the taxonomic confusion involving C. meyeniana and its morphologically similar taxa.
A description of a new species of Cephalodasys (Macrodasyida: Gastrotricha) from Florida, USA using an integrative morphological approach
Authors: ARAÚJO THIAGO QUINTÃO
Published: June 2024

A new gastrotrich species of the genus Cephalodasys (Macrodasyida: Cephalodasyidae) is described from Capron Shoal, Florida, USA. The new species is up to 630 μm long. There are six TbA that arises directly from a fleshy hand-like base. Up to 26 TbVL per side. 11 pairs of TbV running from U28 to U65. 12 pairs of TbP arranged symmetrically along the posterior margin from U90 to U100. Animals are simultaneous hermaphrodites with a rounded frontal organ and a putative caudal organ. On the other hand, the new species is unique and differs from its congeners by the arrangement of anterior, posterior and ventrolateral adhesive tubes and by exclusive series of TbV, first time reported in Cephalodasys. A complete set of longitudinal, circular and helicoidal muscles are described for the first time for a Cephalodasys species using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM). The muscular analysis added important novelties to the knowledge of muscular architecture of Macrodasyida group and to the phylum.
Graphene Oxide Boosted: A Multifaceted Examination of CZTS Composite for Enhanced Photocatalysis and Antimicrobial Efficacy
Authors: Cavusoglu Halit , Ibrahim Marwah Ali , Sakalak Hüseyin , Günes Erdogan , Uysal Ahmet , Çİtak Emre , Öztürk Teoman
Published: June 2024

Because of their acute toxicity and long-lasting effects on the environment such as chemical accidents, agricultural runoff, and industrial effluents, has raised concerns around the world. Semiconductor-based photocatalysis has gained prominence for its ability to degrade organic contaminants
comprehensively, providing a potential solution to the limitations of conventional methods. This study addresses the environmental repercussions of dye contamination and explores the utilization of active semiconductor photocatalysts for effective wastewater treatment. Our focus lies in synthesizing
CZTS through the hydrothermal route, a method gaining traction for its simplicity and environmental viability. To augment the photocatalytic efficiency of semiconductor materials, graphene oxide (GO) has been introduced with varying GO concentrations of 5% and 10%. Additionally, the study
explores the performance of CZTS nanoparticles with varying GO concentrations for antimicrobial applications against seven Gram positive/negative bacterial and one yeast strains and its catalytic prowess in the photodegradation of methylene blue dye under ultraviolet light.
Trauma Program Value Assessment at an Academic Health Network System Over 12 Years
Authors: Abdelmasseh Michael , Cuaranta Araceli , Thompson Errington , Finley Robert K. , Payne Barbara , Tian Jing , Gorka Alexei , Willis Jonathan , Kadiyala Vineela , Sanabria Juan R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Trauma is a leading cause of global death, with 200 000 deaths and over 3 million non-fatal injuries/year in the United States. We aim to assess trauma care value for patients who underwent urgent laparotomies (LAP) and thoracotomies (THO) in our Health Network System.

Methods

Clinical variables (v = 84) from trauma patients (>18 yo) were retrieved retrospectively (Jan-2010 to July-2016) and prospectively (Aug-2016 to Sept-2021) from a Health System warehouse under IRB-approved protocols. Patients were divided according to their Injury Severity Score (ISS) into mild/moderate cases (ISS <15) and severe cases (ISS >15). Value was assessed using quality and cost domains. Quality surrogates included graded postoperative complications (PCs), length of stay (LOS), 30-day readmission (RA), patient satisfaction (PS), and textbook (TB) cases. Total charges (TCs) and reimbursement index (RI) were included as surrogates for cost. Value domains were displayed in scorecards comparing Observed (O) with Expected (E) (using the ACS risk calculator) outcomes. Uni-/multivariate analyses were performed using SPSS.

Results

41,927 trauma evaluations were performed, leading to 16 044 admissions, with 528 (3.2%) patients requiring urgent surgical procedures (LAP = 413 and THO = 115). Although the M:F ratio (7:3) was similar in LAP vs THO groups, age and BMI were significantly different (41.8 ± 19.1 vs 51.8 ± 19.9 years, 28.6 ± 9.9 vs 27.4 ± 7 Kg/m2, respectively, P < .05). Blunt trauma was involved in 68.8/77.3% of the LAP/THO procedures, respectively ( P < .05). Multivariate analyses showed ISS, age, ASA class, and medical center as factors significantly predicting PC ( P < .05). Postoperative complication grades from the LAP/THO groups showed above-average outcomes; nonetheless, LOS was higher than the national averages.

Conclusions

The Trauma Program holds high value in our Health Network System. Protocols for decreasing LOS are being implemented.
To Dor or Not to Dor? Heller Myotomy, a Retrospective Study
Authors: Ganam Samer , Sher Theo , Flores Kristen , Nehila Timothy , Mhaskar Rahul , Sujka Joseph , DuCoin Christopher
Published: June 2024

Achalasia is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting esophageal sphincter function. Treatment options include non-surgical and surgical approaches, such as Heller myotomy (HM). Combining Dor fundoplication with HM is controversial but may prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This retrospective cohort study aimed to assess whether HM with Dor fundoplication reduces GERD rates and increases dysphagia rates. Eighty patients who underwent HM between January 2018 and August 2023 were included. Sixty-four patients had Dor fundoplication and were matched 4:1 to 16 patients without fundoplication. Records were reviewed for GERD and achalasia symptoms at various postoperative time points. No significant differences in GERD or dysphagia symptoms were found between the two groups at any time point. Similarly, there were no significant differences in chest pain or dysphagia treatment. In conclusion, this study suggests that the addition of Dor fundoplication to HM does not significantly impact postoperative GERD or achalasia-related symptoms.
Women in the Operating Room: The Role of Mentorship in Challenging the Gendered Norms of Surgical Practices
Authors: Htite Elly Dimya
Published: June 2024

Historically, surgery has been considered an inherently “masculine” profession. This persistent stereotype has led to gender inequality in currently practicing surgeons, despite gender parity of newly admitted medical students in North America. Since women began practising medicine in the 19th century, these norms began to be challenged in tandem with the suffragette movement. In the United States, United Kingdom and Canada, pioneering female physicians and surgeons worked together to establish spaces where women would be welcomed and mentored the next generation of female surgeons. In this essay, I highlight prominent women physicians and surgeons that have contributed to the presence of women in the operating room through mentorship.
Boston Naming Test as a Screening Tool for Early Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction in Elderly Patients After Major Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Chen Zhang , Meng Bo , Li Xiaoyu , Lu Bo , Zhai Xiaojie , Wang Ruichun , Chen Junping
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The Boston naming test (BNT), as a simple, fast, and easily administered neuropsychological test, was demonstrated to be useful in detecting language function. In this study, BNT was investigated whether it could be a screening tool for early postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

Methods

This prospective observational cohort study included 132 major noncardiac surgery patients and 81 nonsurgical controls. All participants underwent a mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and BNT 1 day before and 7 days after surgery. Early POCD was assessed by reliable change index and control group results.

Results

Seven days after surgery, among 132 patients, POCD was detected in 30 (22.7%) patients (95% CI, 15.5%-30.0%) based on MMSE, and 45 (34.1%) patients (95% CI, 26.3%-41.9%) were found with postoperative language function decline based on BNT and MMSE. Agreement between the BNT spontaneous naming and MMSE total scoring was moderate (Kappa .523), and the sensitivity of BNT spontaneous naming for detecting early POCD was .767. Further analysis showed that areas under receiver operating characteristics curves (AUC) did not show statistically significant differences when BNT spontaneous naming (AUC .862) was compared with MMSE language functional subtests (AUC .889), or non-language functional subtests (AUC .933).

Conclusion

This study indicates the feasibility of implementing the BNT spontaneous naming test to screen early POCD in elderly patients after major noncardiac surgery.
Integrated care models for youth mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: McHugh Catherine , Hu Nan , Georgiou Gabrielle , Hodgins Michael , Leung Sarah , Cadiri Mariyam , Paul Nicola , Ryall Vikki , Rickwood Debra , Eapen Valsamma , Curtis Jackie , Lingam Raghu
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

To evaluate the effectiveness of integrated models of mental healthcare in enhancing clinical outcomes, quality of life, satisfaction with care and health service delivery outcomes in young people aged 12–25 years. A secondary objective was to identify common components of integrated mental health interventions.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published 2001–2023 that assessed clinical or health service use outcomes of integrated care, relative to treatment as usual, for any mental health condition in 12–25 years old accessing community-based care.

Results:

Of 11,444 titles identified, 15 studies met inclusion criteria and 6 studies were entered in the meta-analysis. Pooled effect size found integrated care was associated with a greater reduction in depressive symptoms relative to treatment as usual at 4–6 months (standardised mean difference = −0.260, 95% confidence interval = [−0.39, −0.13], p = 0.001). Of the seven studies reporting access or engagement, all reported higher rates of both in the intervention arm. The most frequent components of integration were use of a multidisciplinary team (13/15 studies), shared treatment planning (11/15) and workforce training in the model (14/15).

Conclusions:

Integrated models of mental healthcare are associated with a small, but significant, increase in effectiveness for depressive symptoms relative to treatment as usual. Given integrated care may increase access and engagement, future research should focus on assessing the impact of integrated care in a wider range of settings and outcomes, including clinical and functional recovery, satisfaction with care and system-level outcomes such as cost-effectiveness.
Risk prevalence, readiness and confidence to change lifestyle risk factors among clients of community mental health services
Authors: Stettaford Tegan , Fehily Caitlin , Campbell Elizabeth , Barker Daniel , Oldmeadow Christopher , McKeon Emma , Love Sophie , Lawn Sharon , Castle David , Bowman Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Objective:

People with mental health conditions have high rates of chronic physical diseases, partially attributable to lifestyle risks factors. This study examined risk prevalence among community mental health service clients, their readiness and confidence to change, and associations with participant characteristics.

Methods:

Cross-sectional survey of adult clients from 12 community mental health services across 3 local health districts in New South Wales, Australia, collected from 2021 to 2022. Participants ( n = 486) completed a telephone interview determining five risk factors, and readiness and confidence to change these. Multiple binary logistic regression models determined associations between readiness and confidence (for each risk), and participant characteristics (demographics and diagnosis).

Results:

Participants most commonly reported a diagnosis of schizophrenia (36.7%) or depression (21.1%). Risk factors were prevalent: ranging from 26% (harmful alcohol use) to 97% (poor nutrition). High readiness was greatest for smoking (68%), weight (66%) and physical inactivity (63%), while confidence was highest for changing alcohol use (67%). Two significant associations were identified; females were more likely than males to have high readiness to change nutrition (odds ratio = 1.14, confidence interval = [1.13, 2.34], p = 0.0092), with males more likely to have high confidence to change physical activity (odds ratio = 0.91, confidence interval = [0.45, 0.99], p = 0.0109).

Conclusions:

Many participants were ready and confident to change risk factors. Gender influenced readiness to change nutrition and physical activity confidence. Training to upskill mental health clinicians in provision of preventive care that builds confidence and readiness levels may aid in supporting positive behaviour change.
From Grief to Growth: The Role of Coping Strategies, Kinship and Cause of Death
Authors: Pereira Marta , Moreira Ana , Neto David Dias
Published: June 2024

Background: Research has predominantly focused on the post-traumatic consequences of grief. Less is known about the factors associated with the capacity for recovery and growth. Objective: The main goal of this study is to analyse the mediating role of coping strategies in the relationship between the impact of the event and posttraumatic growth, considering the degree of kinship and the cause of death. Methods: This exploratory and correlational study, which used a cross-sectional design, involved a community sample of 889 adults who had lost a loved one. Results: Emotion and problem-focused coping strategies mediate the relationship between the impact of loss and posttraumatic growth, specifically when a spouse or a child dies. Conclusions: Individuals who experience greater suffering also undergo higher levels of post-traumatic growth. Coping strategies are crucial in post-trauma reconstruction and growth. Furthermore, the degree of kinship and the cause of death are decisive factors.
Trajectory and Determinants of Quality of Life Among Postpartum Women
Authors: Lee Li-Chun , Hung Chich-Hsiu , Wu Wan-Ru
Published: June 2024

Background:

The postpartum period is a critical phase in which postpartum women experience dynamic changes in their physiology, psychology, and family status.

Objective:

This study investigated the changes in women’s quality of life (QoL) during the first, third, and sixth months of the postpartum period and their associated factors.

Methods:

A single-group repeated-measure design was used to collect data from 282 postpartum women recruited from a regional hospital in Taiwan. We used the brief World Health Organization Quality of Life scale, Social Support Scale, and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to assess postpartum women’s quality of life, social support, and postpartum depressive symptoms, respectively. The data were analyzed using trajectory analysis and generalized estimating equations.

Results:

The trajectory analysis indicated that postpartum women could be categorized into low, medium, and high QoL groups. Although the medium and high QoL groups maintained stable QoL levels, the low QoL group experienced a linear decrease in QoL over time. Moreover, the determinants of postpartum women’s QoL were immigrant status, employment status, family type, social support, and postpartum depression.

Conclusions:

Health care providers should assess these determinants of postpartum QoL in perinatal women to identify those at risk of low postpartum quality of life. Early assessment and intervention by health care providers could significantly improve the health status of women after childbirth.
Standing up for close others: the relationship effect on moral courage across care and fairness contexts / En defensa de los más allegados: el efecto de la relación en la valentía moral en contextos de cuidado y de equidad
Authors: Nudelman Gabriel , Chen Yongyuan , Wu Michael Shengtao
Published: June 2024

Moral courage is defined as standing up for others and intervening when a norm is violated. This research aimed to examine the effect of relationship type between the bystander and the victim (close or distant) and the moral context in which the norm violation occurs (care/harm or fairness/reciprocity) on moral courage. Two studies ( n = 164 and n = 200) utilized a scenario method in which participants were presented with short vignettes of another person (close or distant) being victimized (in either a care or a fairness context) and were asked to indicate their willingness to intervene, representing degree of moral courage. As expected, participants reported greater levels of moral courage when the victim was their family member or friend (vs. stranger) and this effect was stronger in the care (vs. fairness) context. Moreover, anger — a moral emotion — mediated the relationship effect on moral courage in both contexts. Consequently, relationship type and context should be considered when addressing interventions against norm violations.
Disrupting Inequitable Family-Professional Decision-Making in EC/ECSE: Alternate Possibilities Through the Humanist Frame
Authors: Hancock Christine L. , Morgan Chelsea W.
Published: June 2024

Though families are recognized as educational decision-makers for their children, inequitable family-professional partnerships persist in early childhood and early childhood special education (EC/ECSE), particularly for marginalized families. In this article, we argue that to promote equitable decision-making and best meet the needs of young children from birth through age five and their families, EC/ECSE professionals can reframe family-professional partnerships through an alternate lens to disrupt and transform entrenched power dynamics. To this end, we first introduce two perspectives of knowledge and power, functionalism and humanism, and discuss how they contribute to decision-making in EC/ECSE. Then, we present a model to examine power and apply the model to contrast decision-making rooted in functionalist and humanist framings. To conclude, we provide recommendations for policy, research, and practice through the humanist frame.
A patient suffered a second myocardial infarction after a bee sting: a case report
Authors: Wang Fei , Lv Zhiyi
Published: June 2024

A few cases have shown that bee stings can be linked to coronary stent thrombosis. However, instances of recurrent myocardial infarction resulting from bee stings among patients who have successfully undergone revascularization treatment are rare. This case report describes a man in his early 60s who experienced an acute myocardial infarction. The left anterior descending coronary artery was revascularized by a drug-eluting stent. Just 1 week later, the patient experienced a second acute myocardial infarction and it occurred immediately after a bee sting. Angiography revealed stent thrombosis so thrombus aspiration was performed. Subsequently, the blood flow in the stent was unobstructed. Follow-up coronary angiography 1 year later revealed no signs of restenosis within the stent. Hymenoptera venoms contains thrombogenic substances that might lead to acute stent thrombosis.
Crash Modification Factors for High-Tension Cable Median Barriers: An Empirical Bayes Before–After Study
Authors: Gayah Vikash V. , Donnell Eric T. , Liu Hao , Prajapati Abhishek
Published: June 2024

Cross-median crashes involve vehicles departing the roadway to the left, crossing the median of a divided highway, and colliding with a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. These crashes are severe, often resulting in fatal or serious injuries. To mitigate this crash type, transportation agencies may install median barriers. The high-tension cable median barrier is a flexible system that is intended to contain or redirect vehicles entering the median—this barrier type has recently been installed along freeway segments throughout Pennsylvania. The purpose of this study is to develop crash modification factors for this barrier system. An empirical Bayes observational before–after study was used to develop the crash modification factors—various crash types, area types (urban versus rural), and barrier placement locations were considered. The results indicate that, when considering both urban and rural locations combined, the installation of high-tension cable median barriers is associated with an increase in total, fatal plus injury, property-damage only, and hit-barrier crashes on freeway segments. The expected number of cross-median, fatal plus suspected serious injury, and fatal plus suspected serious injury cross-median crashes is expected to decrease when installing high-tension cable median barriers. The crash modification factor for high-tension cable median barriers is higher for installations along the shoulder of the freeway segment when compared to installations in the center of the median.
Influence of the geometry of a CFRP leaf spring on its mechanical response
Authors: Martínez Vicente JL , Serna Moreno MC
Published: June 2024

Carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates are replacing traditional materials in numerous applications in which high specific strength and stiffness are sought. One example could be the use of composite leaf springs for lightweight structures in transport, which should be designed taking into account their bending response. The main objective of this work is to study analytically and numerically the influence of the geometry on the mechanical response of a mono leaf spring under the hypothesis of linear behaviour. With this scope, the performance of a CFRP mono leaf spring is observed considering four different geometries: cubic, parabolic, arc of circumference and elliptical. A linear-elastic study is carried out to examine the influence of the spring shape on its flexural behaviour in terms of the load transfer as well as the apparent bending rigidity, natural frequency and buckling load. Three-point bending tests are performed with parabolic specimens manufactured from unidirectional CFRP laminates for validating the assumption of linear response for three different thicknesses of the cross-section. The experimental results confirm the linear-elastic response of the samples, what allows theoretically estimating the stiffness and the stress state of the spring.
From participation to provision: How civil society secures procedural rights through peace negotiations
Authors: Bell Sam R , Kitagawa Risa
Published: June 2024

Civil society inclusion in peace processes has many positive externalities, but does inclusion lead to improved rights for civil society actors themselves? We theorize how civil society actors leverage peace processes to secure state commitments to an improved advocacy environment after conflict. Using new data on civil society participation in peace negotiations (1990–2020), we show that participation significantly increases the likelihood of a provision formalizing these actors’ procedural rights in the resulting peace agreement. This relationship is conditional on relatively low pre-agreement repression of civil society, suggesting a minimal threshold of freedoms for effective advocacy during negotiations. Civil society actors in conflict settings may allocate scarce advocacy resources to secure procedural protections of their post-conflict survival, not only principled outcomes. Our findings suggest a possible mechanism allowing civil society to influence longer-term policy outcomes after conflict.
Decolonising anthropology from the margin: A postcolonial and feminist anthropologist from South Asia in Europe
Authors: Khandoker Nasrin
Published: June 2024

This article uses auto-ethnography to analyse the trajectory of an anthropologist and feminist from South Asia to Europe. Through analysing this journey it aims to turn anthropology's gaze from the margin to the centre. Tracing the trajectory, the article contrasts the dominant disciplinary frameworks for generating knowledge in the Global North and the Global South. This comparison suggests the need to focus on decolonial and feminist politics in anthropology in the Global North. To elaborate on the argument, this article historicises and problematises anthropology's discomfort with feminism, which contributes to a distance from political positioning and the obstacles to creating a solid foundation for feminist anthropology in the Global North. The article also analyses the forms of marginalisation practised in neo-colonial anthropology within the neo-liberal knowledge industry in the disciplinary sphere of the Global North, and the ways in which they could be challenged and reversed. It discusses the complex dynamics of gender, race, and colonial legacies, advocating for a reorientation within anthropology that acknowledges and searches for ways to resist the enduring influence of colonial power structures. In short, the article engages with anthropology's systemic, epistemological and methodological decolonisation as a discipline and practice.
The Doctrinal Status of Just War in the Contemporary Teaching of the Catholic Magisterium
Authors: Reichberg Gregory M.
Published: June 2024

This article examines the doctrinal status of just war in the contemporary teaching of the Catholic magisterium. Some passages from Pope Francis’s 2020 encyclical Fratelli tutti, On Fraternity and Social Friendship appear to exclude the just war idea from the social doctrine of the Catholic Church. To gauge whether this is so, the article establishes a baseline comparison to the seminal teaching of Thomas Aquinas on peace and just war. Both St. Thomas and Pope Francis proceed from the assumption that “war” designates a sinful violation of peace. They appear to differ, however, on the question whether a positive meaning should be ascribed to the Roman term bellum justum. To understand if this divergence is purely verbal or involves a substantive disagreement, I consider why Pope Francis’s predecessors have (since the mid-twentieth century) abstained from employing the expression “just war” in their official documents. Finally, Pope Francis’s emphatic statement that St. Augustine ‘forged a concept of “just war” that we no longer uphold in our own day’ is interpreted in light of the passage from his Epistle 229 to Darius that Francis references in Fratelli tutti.
Study on the curing characteristics and properties of phthalonitrile resin cured with organic guanidine
Authors: Ding Nanyang , Wang Chengzhong
Published: June 2024

Bisphenol A-based phthalonitrile resin was synthesized by nucleophilic substitution reaction from bisphenol A and 4-nitrophthalonitrile, and then the obtained resin was cured with sulfaguanidine as a novel curing agent. The curing characteristics, kinetics, thermal stability and dynamic mechanical property were studied by standard thermal analysis techniques including DSC, TGA, and DMA. The peak temperature of exothermic peak ( Tp) and apparent activation energy ( Ea) of sulfaguanidine cured phthalonitrile resin were 263.20°C and 76.6 kJ·mol−1 respectively, much lower than those of traditional aromatic diamine cured resin. Moreover, the resin cured by sulfaguanidine showed excellent thermomechanical properties and thermal stability. The glass transition temperature ( Tg) was 284.8°C, the initial thermal decomposition temperature ( Td,5%) was 439.6°C, and the char yield at 800°C was 62.1% in nitrogen atmosphere. To sum up, organic guanidine cured phthalonitrile resin exhibits excellent curing characteristics (low Tp and Ea) and high thermal properties, which provides a promising approach to preparing phthalonitrile resin with high comprehensive performance.
A review of polymeric bipolar plates for proton exchange membrane fuel cells: Materials, fabrication, applications, cost analysis, and current status
Authors: Mishra Saurabh , Verma Vijay , Kishore Vimal , Kumar Ravindra
Published: June 2024

Bipolar plates play a crucial role in the performance and viability of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Polymeric composites have demonstrated their potential as alternatives to graphite and metallic materials for bipolar plates due to their good corrosion resistance, lightweight nature, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, these polymeric materials often suffer from low electrical conductivity. The incorporation of various electrically conducting fillers can improve the electrical conductivity of these materials. This work presents a comprehensive review of the utilization of polymeric materials-based composites for bipolar plates for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Various aspects related to bipolar plates in proton exchange membrane fuel cells, including materials, fabrication techniques, applications, cost analysis, and the current status of proton exchange membrane fuel cells are discussed in this work. Both thermoplastic and thermoset-based composites are explored as matrix materials for bipolar plates, along with different conducting filler/reinforcement options, and their best results are also explored. The impact of traditional as well as emerging fabrication techniques on the performance of bipolar plates is evaluated, emphasizing the need to reduce the cost of bipolar plates for the commercialization of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Furthermore, the paper also examines the applications and current status of proton exchange membrane fuel cells in India as well as worldwide.
Disparate impacts of the Eldgjá and Laki flood-lava eruptions
Authors: Morison Conner A G , Oppenheimer Clive , Thordarson Thorvaldur , Newton Anthony J , Moreland William M , Dugmore Andrew J
Published: June 2024

The Eldgjá eruption of ~ 939 AD is recognised as the largest in Iceland since Settlement, and ranks among the largest late-Holocene volcanic episodes on Earth. It disgorged > 21.0 km3 (Dense Rock Equivalent) of magma as lava flows (~ 19.7 km3) and tephra deposits (> 1.3 km3 DRE), comprising alternating phreatomagmatic (wet) and magmatic (dry) explosive phases. Tephra deposits up to four metres thick buried proximal areas, and extreme quantities of sulphur and other volatiles were released into the atmosphere. Little is known about the environmental and societal impacts of the eruption within Iceland as it took place during the initial decades of human settlement, and before written record-keeping in Iceland became prevalent. In this work, we review what is known of the Eldgjá eruption, making comparisons with the better documented Laki eruption of 1783–1784 AD (~ 15.1 km3 DRE). While the Eldgjá eruption was volumetrically greater, probably longer-lasting, and involved phreatomagmatic explosive phases, we reason that societal resilience to volcanic hazards was likely stronger in the 10th century compared with the 18th, reflecting differences in social and natural capital in Iceland. Accordingly, the impacts of the Eldgjá eruption cannot be inferred reliably from knowledge of the Laki episode and its aftermath.
High-resolution water temperature and salinity evolutions and associated drivers of the North Yellow Sea during the Late-Holocene
Authors: Zheng Shiwen , Fan Dejiang , Mao Judong , Jia Yonggang , Yang Zuosheng
Published: June 2024

The mud deposit areas on continental shelf have developed in a relatively steady sedimentary condition with high sedimentation rates, thus rendering them ideal regions for exploring high-resolution paleo-sedimentary environment records. Since the sedimentary environment of the continental shelf is subject to the compound influence of multiple factors, the reconstruction of water salinity and temperature and comprehensive analysis of their response to global climate change remains challenging. Therefore, the present study characterized water salinity and temperature of the North Yellow Sea (NYS) using proxies, such as ratios of halogen elements of sediments and stable isotopic compositions of benthic foraminifera, and found the halogen elements of Cl in sediments was good proxy for water salinity. The evolutions of water salinity and temperature of the NYS for the past 3000 years were reconstructed, while the evolution stages and drivers of the sedimentary environment were explored. From approximately 3000 cal yr BP, the sea bottom salinity and temperature of the NYS were found to follow the same evolution trends predominantly consisting of the three stages: relatively low seawater salinity and temperature during 3000−2000 cal yr BP; relatively high seawater salinity and temperature during 2000−460 cal yr BP; and rapid changes of seawater salinity and temperature since 460 cal yr BP. The changes in seawater salinity and temperature of the NYS were largely driven by the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) as well as the influence of the Kuroshio Current. As the EAWM fluctuated, changes occurred in the flux of low temperature, low salinity coastal current water into the Yellow Sea, with concomitant changes in bottom temperature and salinity. Strengthening of the Kuroshio Current promoted the development of the Yellow Sea Warm Current, while the influx of warm, salty water into the Yellow Sea influenced the respective sea region. The abrupt global climate changes such as the “Little Ice Age” and the Medieval Warm Period first affected the East Asian monsoon, followed by the respective sea region.
Continuity and discontinuity at the burial site of Roonka, Murray Gorge, South Australia
Authors: Littleton Judith , Emmitt Joshua , Petchey Fiona , Allen Harry , Walshe Keryn , Karstens Sarah
Published: June 2024

Identifying continuity and discontinuity in Holocene hunter-gatherer burial sites is often challenging. Roonka, is the largest excavated burial area in Australia. Despite preliminary analysis in the 1970–1980s chronology was challenging given the complex record of dune formation, intrusive burials, erosion and exposure. As part of collaboration with the River Murray and Mallee Aboriginal Corporation, we have re-analysed the legacy data. We have combined three tools: 3D reconstruction and spatial analysis of the site; Bayesian analysis of the radiocarbon sequence, and archaeothanatology to gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between burials and dune formation and hence the connection between changes in burial practices and environmental change. Analysis confirms that the site was used as a burial place over the last 8000 years, but the burial record has been significantly impacted by erosion. The most likely cause of erosion is ENSO-driven climatic change. Other changes that are not coincident with climatic change but alter the intensity of site use were identified by tracing the number of burials over time. Analysis indicates a shift from occasional and specialised use to increasing use in the mid to Late-Holocene. We argue that burial practices became more diverse and demographically inclusive over time. In summary, our analysis clearly demonstrates that it was not a place for everybody all the time. The selection of ‘who’ and ‘when’ demonstrates access to and maintenance of a broader set of persistent burial places in the Murray Valley region during the Holocene.
A robust regression model for bounded count health data
Authors: Bayes Cristian L , Bazán Jorge Luis , Valdivieso Luis
Published: June 2024

Bounded count response data arise naturally in health applications. In general, the well-known beta-binomial regression model form the basis for analyzing this data, specially when we have overdispersed data. Little attention, however, has been given to the literature on the possibility of having extreme observations and overdispersed data. We propose in this work an extension of the beta-binomial regression model, named the beta-2-binomial regression model, which provides a rather flexible approach for fitting a regression model with a wide spectrum of bounded count response data sets under the presence of overdispersion, outliers, or excess of extreme observations. This distribution possesses more skewness and kurtosis than the beta-binomial model but preserves the same mean and variance form of the beta-binomial model. Additional properties of the beta-2-binomial distribution are derived including its behavior on the limits of its parametric space. A penalized maximum likelihood approach is considered to estimate parameters of this model and a residual analysis is included to assess departures from model assumptions as well as to detect outlier observations. Simulation studies, considering the robustness to outliers, are presented confirming that the beta-2-binomial regression model is a better robust alternative, in comparison with the binomial and beta-binomial regression models. We also found that the beta-2-binomial regression model outperformed the binomial and beta-binomial regression models in our applications of predicting liver cancer development in mice and the number of inappropriate days a patient spent in a hospital.
Carbon Emissions Pricing: Linkages Between EU ETS Spot and Future Prices and Completeness of EU ETS Market
Authors: Mondal Saikat , Pradhan Rudra P. , Madhavan Vinodh , Chatterjee Debaleena , Varghese Ann Mary
Published: June 2024

The study examines the relationship and linkages between spot and future prices of European Union Emission Trading Systems (EU-ETS) during 2019–2021. Dynamic conditional correlation specification of multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (MGARCH) model was employed to examine the time-varying correlation between spot and future prices. Also, vector autoregression mean model and MGARCH-Baba-Engle-Kroner-Kraft volatility model was jointly estimated to model the spillover between EU ETS spot and future prices in the first and second moments. Lastly, we utilize the variance-covariance matrix of joint mean-variance model estimation to derive the optimal conditional hedge ratio as well as the hedge effectiveness of EU ETS future contracts. Our findings reveal a high conditional correlation and significant spillover between carbon spot and future markets in EU. Further, our study uncovers a high degree of hedge effectiveness for EU ETS future contracts. This is possibly the first study that examines the linkages between EU ETS spot and future prices pertaining to the recent transition stage of phase III and the initial stage of ongoing phase IV of the ETS market. Our findings pinpoint to ETS markets becoming more complete and in turn offering optimal hedging avenues.

JEL Codes: G15, C58, Q38
The Potency of Financial Inclusion for Income Inequality Reduction in BRICS Economies: Does Institutional Quality Matter?
Authors: Onatunji Olufemi G.
Published: June 2024

While the global economy has witnessed robust economic performance over the past few years, millions of households remain financially deprived. This indicates that universal access to financial services is critical for the global community to achieve the United Nations’ sustainable development goals (SDGs). Although there is a burgeoning body of literature on the nexus between financial inclusion and income inequality, empirical evidence on the contribution of financial inclusion and institutional quality to income inequality remains sparse. This research, therefore, examines the effect of financial inclusion and institutional quality on income inequality in Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) economies from 2004 to 2015. The empirical analysis employed the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) and common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG) techniques to obviate cross-sectional dependency and heterogeneity concerns. The empirical outcome demonstrates that financial inclusion promotes income inequality reduction in BRICS economies in the long and short run. Additionally, improvements in institutional quality further enhance the accessibility and usage of financial services by financially excluded individuals, thereby fostering equitable income distribution in the BRICS countries. Based on these findings, BRICS economies need to increase their awareness of the available financial services, effective microfinance, financial capability, and infrastructural access in rural areas to improve financial inclusivity and thus promote equitable income distribution.

JEL Classification D02, D33, E02, G21, O15
The Accessibility of Online Mental Health Crisis Resources in Texas Public School Districts
Authors: Ainsworth Holly , Johnson Karen
Published: June 2024

Youth mental health and access to mental health resources are ongoing concerns for many students, families, and school personnel. Schools are trusted entities with the potential to disseminate accurate information. However, little is known about how school districts utilize the opportunity to connect students to trustworthy online mental health crisis resources. The objective of this study was to determine whether school districts are using technology to connect students to mental health resources. Using a stratified random sample of Texas public school districts, we assessed the presence and accessibility of mental health resources through district websites. Only 20.3% of district websites had mental health crisis resources present. Further evaluation revealed that districts are not fully utilizing technology to promote online mental health crisis resources. School nurses can play a key role in expanding access to mental health crisis resources by developing and promoting such websites.
Unveiling the Uncommon: Gastrointestinal Basidiobolomycosis of the Colon and its Distinctive Splendore-Hoeppli Phenomenon
Authors: Shaker Nada , Mansoor Ibrahim , Saleem Nasir , Sangueza Omar P. , Shaker Nuha
Published: June 2024

Background

Basidiobolomycosis is a rare fungal infection caused by Basidiobolus ranarum.

Case Presentation

A 53-year-old man from Saudi Arabia with a known history of diverticulosis presented with severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. A CT scan revealed circumferential wall thickening of the descending and sigmoid colon with surrounding fat stranding, suggesting a diagnosis of complicated diverticulitis. Additional thick fluid was observed around the affected area. Surgical excision was pursued. A gross examination of two received large bowel segments disclosed marked ulcerated mucosa and wall thickening with exudate-covered serosal surfaces and adhesions. Microscopic examination unveiled significant infiltration by eosinophils, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and granulomatous inflammation. Thin-walled, broad fungal hyphae of Basidiobolus, surrounded by eosinophilic material, were identified. Granulomas displayed abundant multinucleated giant cells and palisading histiocytes around central necrosis or abscess formation. Thin-walled, broad fungal hyphae of Basidiobolus, with sparse septations, are surrounded by a radiating, intensely eosinophilic cuff (Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon). These hyphae, visible with hematoxylin and eosin staining, were further highlighted with periodic acid-Schiff and Gomori methenamine silver staining.

Discussion

Basidiobolomycosis may mimic neoplastic lesions. Histologically, the characteristic features include broad, thin-walled septate hyphae surrounded by eosinophilic material, a finding that is accentuated by the Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon. Microscopic examination, along with special stains such as periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Gomori methenamine silver, is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Conclusion

Prompt recognition and appropriate antifungal therapy are vital for favorable patient outcomes. This report highlights the distinctive features of Basidiobolomycosis to raise awareness and understanding of this infrequent yet clinically significant fungal infection.
Fumarate Hydratase-Deficient Abdominal Wall Leiomyoma Presenting a Decade Post-Fumarate Hydratase-Deficient Uterine Leiomyoma Excision: An Incidental or Syndromic Association?
Authors: Shaker Nada , Li Zaibo , Shaker Nuha , Poombal Fnu , Sangueza Omar P. , Pradhan Dinesh
Published: June 2024

Background. The occurrence of fumarate hydratase-deficient leiomyoma of the abdominal wall is exceptionally rare. Case Presentation. A 50-year-old female patient with a past medical history of fumarate hydratase-deficient uterine leiomyoma presented with a left lower quadrant abdominal mass that has been present for the past 2 years. An ultrasound revealed a 3.5 cm oval hypoechoic mass. A subsequent CT scan showed a 3.5 cm hyperdense mass within the left internal oblique musculature. No family history is noted. A biopsy of the mass exhibited bundles of spindle cell neoplasm exhibiting bizarre ovoid nuclei and eosinophilic cytoplasm. No evidence of mitotic figures or tumor necrosis was noted. Immunohistochemical staining showed positive staining for desmin and smooth muscle actin (SMA), but negative staining for MART-1, S100, and CD34. Lesional cells showed expression of 2-succinocysteine and loss of fumarate hydratase expression. A diagnosis of fumarate hydratase-deficient leiomyoma was rendered. Conclusion. This report reinforces the importance of considering genetic testing for fumarate hydratase mutations in the evaluation of extra-uterine leiomyomatous lesions. Comprehensive follow-up and clinical screening in individuals with new lesions and a known history of fumarate hydratase-deficient neoplasms is mandatory. Recent recommendations support the integration of morphology-based evaluation along with immunohistochemical staining and genetic testing as a part of the standard evaluation for all uterine leiomyomas.
Fear, “Discomfort,” Anger, and Shame in the Night-Time Economy: Women's Responses to Unwanted Sexual Intrusions
Authors: Lewis Ruth , McBride Amanda
Published: June 2024

Despite a surge of attention to gender-based violence (GBV), research about the night-time economy (NTE) as a site of gendered violence is limited. Even less research examines women's emotional responses to “unwanted sexual intrusions” (USI) in the NTE. Analyzing women's emotional responses can generate deeper understanding of social phenomena, power and its operation, and is in keeping with feminist theorizing that uses a victim-survivor-centered approach. Analysis of qualitative data, from a survey we conducted in the United Kingdom, reveals women experience USI in the NTE as a frightening, shameful injustice. The article discusses these emotions in light of the changing “emotional climate” about GBV.