bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management Measures and Trends of Biological Invasions in Europe: A Survey‐Based Assessment of Local Managers
Authors: Garcia‐Lozano Carla , Pueyo‐Ros Josep , Canelles Quim , Latombe Guillaume , Adriaens Tim , Bacher Sven , Cardoso Ana Cristina , Cleary Michelle , Coromina Lluís , Courchamp Franck , Dawson Wayne , de Groot Maarten , Essl Franz , Gallardo Belinda , Golivets Marina , Huusela Erja , Jauni Miia , Jelaska Sven D. , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Katsanevakis Stelios , Kourantidou Melina , Kühn Ingolf , Lenzner Bernd , Leung Brian , Marchante Elizabete , O'Flynn Colette , Pérez‐Granados Cristian , Pergl Jan , Pipek Pavel , Preda Cristina , Ribeiro Filipe , Roy Helen , Scalera Riccardo , von Schmalensee Menja , Seebens Hanno , Stefánsson Róbert A. , Tokarska‐Guzik Barbara , Tricarico Elena , Vanderhoeven Sonia , Vandvik Vigdis , Vilà Montserrat , Roura‐Pascual Núria
Published: January 2025

Biological invasions are a major threat to biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and nature's contributions to people worldwide. However, the effectiveness of invasive alien species (IAS) management measures and the progress toward achieving biodiversity targets remain uncertain due to limited and nonuniform data availability. Management success is usually assessed at a local level and documented in technical reports, often written in languages other than English, which makes such data notoriously difficult to collect at large geographic scales. Here we present the first European assessment of how managers perceive trends in IAS and the effectiveness of management measures to mitigate biological invasions. We developed a structured questionnaire translated into 18 languages and disseminated it to local and regional managers of IAS in Europe. We received responses from 1928 participants from 41 European countries, including 24 European Union (EU) Member States. Our results reveal substantial efforts in IAS monitoring and control, with invasive plants being the primary focus. Yet, there is a general perception of an increase in the numbers, occupied areas, and impacts of IAS across environment and taxonomic groups, particularly plants, over time. This perceived increase is consistent across both EU and non‐EU countries, with respondents from EU countries demonstrating more certainty in their responses. Our results also indicate a lack of data on alien vertebrates and invertebrates, reflecting a need for more targeted monitoring and knowledge sharing between managers and policymakers and between countries. Overall, our study suggests that Europe's current strategies are insufficient to substantially reduce IAS by 2030 and hence to meet the Kunming‐Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework target.
Exploring health influences and the moderating role of authentic leadership in workplace bullying: A cross‐sectional study among hospital nurses
Authors: Fang Li , Hsiao Li‐Ping , Fang Shu‐Hui
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study explored the relationship between workplace bullying, authentic leadership, workplace friendship and nurses’ health conditions and identified the predictors of nurses’ health. It also explored whether authentic leadership moderated the impact of workplace bullying on their health.

Methods

This study used a cross‐sectional and correlational design following the STROBE guidelines. The main research tools were structured questionnaires, including sociodemographic variables, Authentic Leadership Questionnaire, Workplace Friendship Questionnaire and CHQ‐12. This study recruited 244 nursing staff members from a regional teaching hospital.

Results

The multiple linear regression analysis showed that excessive workload, high workplace bullying, low authentic leadership and low workplace friendship were predictors of nurses’ health.

Conclusion

Authentic leadership significantly moderated the impact of workplace bullying on nurses’ health based on hierarchical regression analysis.

Implications for nursing management and social policy

Hospital administrators should review the perpetrators’ responsibilities and assist the victims to obtain psychological counselling, regularly hold leadership training to enhance the leadership skills of nursing managers and organise social activities for nurses to foster workplace friendships.
An interventional study of digital therapy on blood glucose and weight management in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lu Difei , Jiang Wenfeng , Ai Dongyan , Cen Chaoping , Ou Qianying , Chen Kaining , Zhang Junqing
Published: January 2025

Objective

Our study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 3‐months digital therapy (DTx) intervention in the real world for the management of blood glucose in 3,902 Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Lingshui, Hainan.

Methods

Adults with T2D who were capable of using DTx application (app) were enrolled. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2‐h postprandial blood glucose (2hPBG), and body weight before and after the intervention were collected. Participants recorded blood glucose and body weight at least once weekly, and attended diabetes education program with the app during online follow‐up once weekly.

Results

A total of, 3,902 patients with T2D were enrolled, including 46.3% of men, with an average age of 64.3 years. After 3‐months of DTx, FBG decreased by 0.52 mmol/L (8.05–7.53, P < 0.001) from baseline, 2hPBG decreased by 1.18 mmol/L (11.95–10.77, P < 0.001), and body weight decreased by 1.50 kg (61.18–59.68, P < 0.001). The median number of glucose self‐reports for each patient was three (0, 273) times. Defining participants who finished glucose or weight self‐report for once within 7 days as the motivated group (n = 1,013), the motivated group showed significant weight loss after DTx intervention (motivated group vs inactive group, −3.01 kg vs −0.36 kg, P < 0.01). No significant difference was found in FBG and 2hPBG between the two groups.

Conclusions

DTx reveals significant efficacy on glucose and weight control in patients with T2D, which can reduce FBG, PBG, and body weight. Better compliance and motivation with DTx and frequent weight monitoring help achieve better weight control.
An Interprofessional Collaboration Between a Community‐Based Doula Organization and Clinical Partners: The Champion Dyad Initiative
Authors: Marshall Cassondra , Nguyen Ashley , Cuentos Alli , Almenar Alyana , Mace Gabriella , Arcara Jennet , Jackson Andrea V. , Gómez Anu Manchikanti
Published: January 2025

As access to doula services expands through state Medicaid coverage and specific initiatives aimed at improving maternal health equity, there is a need to build and improve upon relationships between the doula community, hospital leaders, and clinical staff. Previous research and reports suggest rapport‐building, provider education, and forming partnerships between community‐based organizations and hospitals can improve such relationships. However, few interventions or programs incorporating such approaches are described in the literature. This article describes the development and 5 core components of the Champion Dyad Initiative (CDI), a novel program that uses bidirectional feedback between SisterWeb, a community‐based doula organization, and 5 clinical sites (4 hospitals and one birthing center) to ensure pregnant and birthing people receive fair and equitable treatment. We also describe implementation challenges related to documentation, funding, and institutional support. The CDI is a promising model for community‐based doula organizations and health care institutions to develop collaborative partnerships, build respectful doula‐provider relationships, and work toward improving the pregnancy‐related care that Black, Indigenous, and people of color receive in hospital and birth center settings. It is our hope that this innovative initiative can serve as a model that can be adapted for other locales, organizations, and hospitals.
Does Perfectionism Affect Parental Identity Development? A One‐Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Piotrowski Konrad , Janowicz Kamil , Damian‐Ilea Lavinia , Negru‐Subtirica Oana
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Previous studies have revealed that perfectionism and identity development during adolescence are related. However, no longitudinal study has been conducted on the impact of perfectionism on identity development in adulthood. In the present study, we analyzed for the first time the longitudinal relationship between personal standards, an indicator of perfectionistic strivings, and concern over mistakes and doubts about actions, indicators of perfectionist concerns, and identity development in one of the most important yet least understood domains for adults, parental identity.

Methods

This 1‐year, three‐wave longitudinal study investigated reciprocal relationships between perfectionism and parental identity among 1275 parents (aged 18–30, M = 26.11; SD = 3.00). We analyzed the results using cross‐lagged panel model analysis and random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel model analysis.

Results

The results revealed that personal standards were associated with a relative increase in seeking in‐depth information about parenthood, and doubts/concerns were associated with a relative increase in disappointment and parenthood regret. Parental identity was not reciprocally related to changes in perfectionism at the between‐person level. However, we observed the effect of parental identity on the decrease in personal standards at the within‐person level.

Conclusion

The results suggest mutual relationships between perfectionism and parental identity at the between‐person and within‐person levels.
Integrating a mortar model into discrete element simulation for enhanced understanding of asphalt mixture cracking
Authors: Dhundup Gyalwang , Zhou Jianing , Bekoe Michael , Sun Lijun , Mao Sheng , Yan Yu
Published: January 2025

Cracks impact the performance and durability of asphalt pavements, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the mixture cracking behavior. While discrete element modeling has been implemented, many studies oversimplify the simulation of asphalt mortar, a critical component affecting mixture cracking resistance. This study proposes a mortar model that is applicable to both two‐dimensional (2D) and, to a preliminary extent, three‐dimensional (3D) simulations. The model incorporates a geometric representation of mortar distribution and a mechanical softening model to simulate damage accumulation and fracture. Laboratory and virtual Superpave indirect tensile tests were performed on asphalt mixtures with varying gradations at different aging levels. The virtual simulations successfully mirrored indoor test results in volumetric parameters, load–displacement behavior, and stress distribution. Minor differences in strength, strain, and fracture energy between virtual and indoor tests confirmed the accuracy of the mortar model. Notably, the 3D simulations provided a more accurate reconstruction of the cracking process, showing smaller discrepancies between virtual and indoor results, compared to the 2D simulations, with errors in stress, strain, and fracture energy of 5.6%, 5.7%, and 4.7%, respectively. Employing the mortar model in discrete element simulation revealed insights into fracture angle distribution and tendencies, enabling meticulous analysis of mixture damage characteristics and cracking behavior. This allows for the improved design of mixtures with excellent cracking performance and contributes to advancing computational methods that could complement laboratory testing.
Land use and cover changes and sand fly (Diptera: Psychodidae) assemblages in an emerging focus of leishmaniasis
Authors: de Oliveira Maxcilene da Silva , da Silva Rosa Cristina Ribeiro , Silva Antonia Suely Guimarães e , Rodrigues Judson Chaves , Pimenta Ronayce Conceição de Jesus Serrão , Leonardo Francisco Santos , Rebêlo José Manuel Macário , Pinheiro Valéria Cristina Soares
Published: January 2025

Land use and cover changes lead to fragmentation of the natural habitats of sand flies and modify the epidemiological profile of leishmaniasis. This process contributes to the infestation of adjacent rural settlements by vector sand fly species with different degrees of adaptation, promoting leishmaniasis outbreaks. This study aimed to assess land use and cover changes over a 12‐year period and investigate the diversity and abundance of sand fly assemblages in the rural area of Codó, Maranhão State, Brazil. Temporal analysis of land use and cover changes was conducted using Sentinel‐2 satellite imagery treated in QGIS software (free version 3.10) and classified using Orfeo Toolbox. Sand flies were sampled in alternate months between August 2022 and June 2023 using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) light traps and white and black Shannon traps installed in peridomestic and extradomestic environments. Map images showed that the predominant land covers in 2012 and 2014 were dense and sparse vegetation, with few buildings. In 2021 and 2023, areas of sparse and dense vegetation were fragmented as new settlements were established. The entomological survey resulted in the capture of 3375 sand flies (CDC = 856, white Shannon = 650, black Shannon = 1969) belonging to 20 species. The most abundant species were Psychodopygus wellcomei Fraiha, Shaw & Lainson, 1971 (78.19%), followed by Nyssomyia whitmani (Antunes & Coutinho, 1939) (7.53%). Additionally, Ny. whitmani was the most abundant species (84.97%) in peridomestic environments, whereas Ps. wellcomei was the most abundant species (96.51%) in extradomestic environments. The sand fly assemblage was highly diverse, with a high abundance of competent vectors of Leishmania spp. These findings can promote community participation in surveillance and control efforts to prevent leishmaniasis cases.
The UK Productivity “Puzzle” in an International Comparative Perspective
Authors: Fernald John , Inklaar Robert
Published: January 2025

The UK's slow productivity growth since 2007 has been referred to as a “puzzle,” as if it were a particularly UK‐specific problem. We highlight how the United States and northern Europe experienced very similar slowdowns. In all three regions, the slowdown in total factor productivity (TFP) growth accounts for the slowdown in labor productivity growth. We find no evidence in capital‐output ratios, investment rates, or internal rates of return that something substantive changed in the capital‐formation process after 2007—other than a slowdown in TFP and output growth that induced slower capital formation. Hence, capital formation is not an important independent factor in the post‐2007 productivity slowdown. For the UK, weak investment is a longstanding concern going back to the 1990s, though considerations of non‐national accounts intangible assets somewhat ameliorate the investment shortfalls. The common slowdown in TFP growth is fairly broad‐based across industry groups. Industry‐specific issues, such as in mining, account for some of relative ground lost after 2007 rather than indicating a systematic UK competitiveness problem.
Influences of plant maternal effects, chemotype, and environment on the leaf bacterial community
Authors: Malacrinò A. , Jakobs R. , Xu S. , Müller C.
Published: January 2025

Plant individuals within a species can differ markedly in their leaf chemical composition, forming so‐called chemotypes. Little is known about whether such differences impact the microbial communities associated with leaves and how different environmental conditions may shape these relationships.

We used Tanacetum vulgare as a model plant to study the impacts of maternal effects, leaf terpenoid chemotype, and the environment on the leaf bacterial community by growing plant clones in the field and a greenhouse. We hypothesized that all three factors affect the bacterial community of the leaves and that terpenoid and bacterial profiles as well as chemodiversity and microbial diversity are correlated.

The results revealed that the leaf microbial community was significantly influenced by plant maternal effects and environmental conditions (field vs. greenhouse), but not by the leaf terpenoid profile. There was also no evidence for a correlation between terpenoid profiles and bacterial community composition and diversity. Overall, a higher number of unique amplicon sequence variants were found in the leaves of clones grown under field conditions than in those grown in the greenhouse. We also identified interactions between individual terpenoids and specific members of the leaf bacterial community.

Our study suggests that terpenoid chemodiversity has, overall, little effect on the leaf bacterial community, but some terpenoids might affect specific beneficial species. While more studies are needed to investigate the relationship between plant chemodiversity and plant microbiomes, our results highlight the importance of integrating plant maternal effects, chemodiversity, and environment in understanding plant–microbiome interactions.
Molecular Mechanism of N‐Acetylcysteine Regulating Proliferation and Hormone Secretion of Granulosa Cells in Sheep
Authors: Wang Jine , Yang Yahua , Ma Junyuan , Li Pinshen , Li Yang , Yang Chongfa , Zhao Binzhu , Zhao Zhijie , Ding Xiaona , Chen Hao , Huo Shengdong , Yang Yanmei , Luo Wenxue
Published: January 2025

Granulosa cells (GCs) are pivotal in the development of ovarian follicles, serving not only as supportive cells but also as the primary producers of steroid hormones. The proliferation of these cells and the synthesis of steroid hormones are crucial for follicular development and atresia. In our study, GCs were isolated using follicular fluid aspiration and subsequently identified through immunofluorescence. We investigated the impact of varying concentrations of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) at 50, 100, 500, and 1000 μmol/L on sheep GCs, focusing on antioxidant levels, proliferation, apoptosis, and steroid hormone secretion. The phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) inhibitor LY294002 was used to explore the molecular mechanism of NAC on GCs proliferation and steroid hormone secretion in sheep. Our findings indicate that all concentrations of NAC tested promoted GC proliferation and suppressed apoptosis in sheep GCs. Notably, 100 μmol/L NAC exhibited the most pronounced effect on GC proliferation after 48 h. The expression levels of CCND1, CDK4, and Bcl‐2 were significantly elevated in all NAC concentration groups, whereas Bax expression was notably reduced. Furthermore, all NAC concentrations led to a significant reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and an increase in the expression of CAT and SOD1. NAC also significantly enhanced the expression of CYP19A1 and 3β‐HSD, as well as the secretion of estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) by GCs. In summary, NAC activates the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, thereby promoting the proliferation of GCs and the secretion of E2 and P4 by sheep GCs in vitro.
The Path to Loneliness for Psychiatric Patients: A Qualitative Study of a Journey Marked by Pain, Hopelessness, Prosocial Signaling Deficits, and Coping Strategies That Are Not Effective
Authors: Landquist Rebecca , Öster Caisa , Isaksson Martina , Wolf‐Arehult Martina
Published: January 2025

Enduring loneliness has serious physical and mental health implications. Patients with mental health problems are at risk of experiencing problems related to loneliness. Therefore, it is important to increase knowledge about how loneliness is experienced and managed in this particular group. The aim of the study was to explore (1) psychiatric patients' experiences of different forms of loneliness, (2) associated problems, including difficulties with prosocial signaling, and (3) strategies used to combat loneliness, to better understand how loneliness affects psychiatric patients and how patients manage their loneliness. A total of 110 psychiatric patients were recruited at eight outpatient clinics in Region Stockholm for a larger study of loneliness. The first fifteen patients who also agreed to participate in the present substudy were invited to meet a trainee psychologist who conducted a semi‐structured interview. A reflexive thematic analysis with a codebook approach was used to analyze the transcripts. The described experiences of loneliness were primarily examples of social and emotional loneliness with one prominent theme: “Hopelessly lonely”. Associated problems were summarized in two themes: “The inevitable road to loneliness” and “Social signals are confusing and push others away”. Regarding patients' strategies for combating loneliness, one theme emerged: “Using strategies that focus on the current moment”. The results also included a total of sixteen subthemes. Loneliness was described as something painful that is inevitable and unchangeable, with a self‐reinforcing loneliness loop leading to social and emotional loneliness, and as something that is intertwined with mental health problems. These results are in accordance with research. In addition, patients described a variety of prosocial signaling deficits and feelings of being disconnected from others. They also reported using strategies that primarily alleviated their immediate suffering when they were alone, rather than focusing on approaches with long‐term effects on reducing loneliness, such as participating in social activities combined with effective social signaling. Future research should investigate whether increased awareness of social signaling, as well as social activities combined with improved prosocial signaling and strengthened self‐belief, would constitute effective steps for patients to combat enduring loneliness. It also seems important to help patients reduce hopelessness related to loneliness.
A Comparative Study of the Effectiveness of Text‐Based Crisis Intervention and Phone‐Based Crisis Intervention in Reducing Emotional Distress Among Texters and Callers
Authors: Alimohammadi Amirali , Roshanpajouh Mohsen , Hosseini Rozhin , Ekrami Kourosh , Aghdaee Morteza , Rajab Boloukat Reyhaneh , Mohagheghi Maryam
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Today, dying by suicide is one of the most important mental health challenges in the world, and proper planning and using various preventive methods play an important role in this field. The present research aimed to study comparatively the effectiveness of text‐based intervention in reducing emotional distress of people involved in psychosocial crises, comparing it with phone‐based intervention.

Methods

In this study, the Distress Thermometer, assessing emotional distress, was used at the start and end of both text and phone‐based interventions to explore their effectiveness in crisis de‐escalation and management. This study comprises two samples within an overarching study, with 700 clients receiving text‐based intervention and 737 clients receiving phone‐based intervention.

Results

The research findings indicate the effectiveness of both methods in reducing emotional distress among individuals in crisis. The mean emotional distress significantly differed between pre‐and post‐tests. Importantly, prior to controlling for baseline distress levels, text‐based intervention demonstrated particularly strong efficacy in reducing emotional distress, showing a statistically significant difference.

Conclusion

Recognizing the effectiveness of both intervention methods and particularly the favorable response of young people with immediate suicide risk to text‐based intervention, prioritizing the implementation of text‐based systems is recommended in the national suicide prevention programs of developing countries.
Invasive Fungal Diseases in Patients with Multiple Myeloma: Experience at a Large, Urban Referral Center
Authors: Baneman Emily , Weinberg Alan , Sullivan Timothy , Fuller Risa , Dunn Dallas , Taimur Sarah , Rana Meenakshi , Jacobs Samantha E.
Published: January 2025

Background

Although infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with multiple myeloma (MM), the epidemiology of invasive fungal disease (IFD) is less well characterized in this population than in other hematologic malignancies.

Methods

We conducted a nested 3:1 case‐control study of IFD at a large MM referral center to identify risk factors for IFD in this population.

Results

In a cohort of 2960 patients, we identified 32 episodes of IFD among 31 patients between 01/2011 and 06/2019. There was a median of 3.6 years from MM diagnosis to IFD, and patients had a median of four lines of chemotherapy (range 1–12) before IFD. Seventeen (53%) had previous autologous hematopoietic cell transplants. At the time of IFD, 23 (72%) had progressive disease status. Fifteen (47%) and 13 (41%) had severe neutropenia and lymphopenia, respectively, and 18 (56%) had hypogammaglobulinemia. Microbiologic etiologies included Aspergillus (n = 18), Candida (n = 6), Cryptococcus (n = 3), Mucorales (n = 3), Histoplasma (n = 1), and undetermined organism (n = 1). In the case‐control analysis, progressive disease status (OR 1.35, p = 0.02) and neutropenia (OR 17.5, p = 0.02) were significant risk factors for IFD. In addition, ≥3 prior lines of chemotherapy trended toward statistical significance (OR 5.6, p = 0.07).

Conclusion

This is the largest detailed description of IFD epidemiology in MM patients and the largest controlled analysis of risk factors in this population. Overall, the risk of IFD was low.
Translations, translocations, and pluralism: A transnational and multilingual analysis of the circulation of radical geographical knowledge
Authors: Ferretti Federico
Published: January 2025

Based on recently opened multilingual archives, this paper addresses relationally three transnational cases of early networking for critical and radical geography that took place in different countries and languages between the 1970s and the 1980s. Addressing materials from the Union of Socialist Geographers (USG, North America and around, 1974–1982), the Unión de Geógrafos Progresistas de México (UGPM, Mexico [involving Latin America], 1978–1990), and Geografia Democratica (GD, Italy [involving France], 1976–1981), it extends scholarship on translation, translocation, and pluralistic bids to decolonise geography. It argues for considering transnational and multilingual analyses of the circulation of geographical knowledge as key to understanding translation as translocation, based on transcultural empathy. Far from being a mere linguistic matter, translation/translocation allows understanding elements of translatability and distinctiveness of concepts travelling from one place to another through complex and rarely linear trajectories. While these three cases show how problematic it is to translate adjectives such as ‘radical’ and ‘critical’ across national, linguistic, and cultural barriers, they also expose how there is no standard or unique application of these definitions to geography, which does not impede putting distinct experiences in mutual and productive dialogues, including for today scholarly and activist agendas.
Evaluation of Complement‐Dependent Cytotoxicity Assays for Gene‐Edited Pig‐to‐Human Xenotransplantation
Authors: Feng Hao , Zhang Man , Xia Qiangbing , Du Jiaxiang , Li Tao , Chen Song , Wang Yi , Pan Dengke , Zhu Lan , Chen Gang
Published: January 2025

Background

Gene‐edited pigs for xenotransplantation usually contain one or more transgenes encoding human complement regulatory proteins (CRPs). Because of species differences, human CRP(s) expressed in gene‐edited pigs may have difficulty inhibiting the activation of exogenous rabbit complement added to a complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) assay. The use of human complement instead of rabbit complement in CDC experiments may more accurately reflect the actual regulatory activity of human CRP(s).

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained from one GTKO pig and two GTKO/hCD55 pigs with a high or low level of hCD55 expression. After incubation of heat‐inactivated normal human sera (HINHS) with porcine PBMCs, CDC levels were measured after the addition of commercial rabbit complement or human complement. In addition, a modified one‐step CDC method was established using pooled normal human sera (NHS) without the addition of exogenous complement.

Results

There was no significant difference in the binding of IgM/IgG to PBMCs from the three pigs. Both rabbit and human complement mediated a significant cytotoxic effect on GTKO pig PBMCs (98.97% vs. 82.73%). Even the high expression of hCD55 only had a very limited inhibitory effect on rabbit complement‐mediated cytotoxicity (81.70% vs. 98.97%). However, regardless of whether the expression level was high or low, hCD55 had a very remarkable inhibitory effect on human complement‐mediated cytotoxicity (2.94% and 23.83% vs. 82.73%; p < 0.01). Similar results were obtained using the modified one‐step CDC method. In addition, the inhibitory effect of hCD55 on C3c and C5b‐9 deposition on pig PBMCs was positively correlated with the expression level of hCD55.

Conclusion

The use of human complement instead of rabbit complement in CDC assays can better reflect the actual cytotoxic effect of human xenoantibodies against pig PBMCs expressing human CRP(s), and thus may have potential application to gene‐edited pig‐to‐human xenotransplantation.
On the dynamics of bubbles passing through a sand bed layer
Authors: Behzadipour Arsalan , Azimi Amir
Published: January 2025

The present research paper reports the outcomes of an extensive laboratory investigation examining the effects of grain size and air discharge on bubble dynamics of bubble plumes passing through a sand bed layer. The effects of sand layer thickness and grain size on bubble characteristics such as bubble size, bubble concentration and velocity, and interfacial area within bubble plumes are studied for a wide range of air discharges. The experiments revealed 58% reduction on the mode bubble size when the sand bed thickness increased from 33 to 66 times of the nozzle diameter. The distribution of bubble size along the main axis of the plume indicated a linear correlation while bubble size distribution became more uniform with relatively smaller bubbles when air passes through a sand bed layer. A sand bed layer significantly improved the formation of uniform bubbly flow with relatively smaller bubbles sizes. Moreover, an increase in the thickness of sand bed layer reduced the mean bubble velocity and consequently extended the residence time of bubbles. Non-linear correlations were observed between particle size and bubble velocity and empirical correlations were formulated to estimate mean bubble diameter and bubble velocity for different bed particle sizes and initial air discharges. The frequency of bubbles increased with increasing air discharge and the sand bed layer almost doubled the frequency of bubbles. The interfacial area of bubbles, which is an indicator of the contact surface between air and water, increased by approximately 32% when the initial Reynolds number doubled.
A Novel Active Learning Kriging-Based Reliability Analysis Method for Aero-Engine Gear
Authors: Qian Hua-Ming , Huang Haoliang , Li Yan-Feng , Zeng Ying , Huang Hong-Zhong
Published: January 2025

This paper proposes the active learning Kriging (ALK)-based reliability method for high-cycle fatigue reliability analysis of aero-engine gears. Uncertainties to affect the reliability of aero-engine gears are quantified with random variables, and the finite element simulation model of gears is refined to align with experimental data. Based on the Basquin equation, the S–N curve of the gear is fitted to the stress–life data obtained from experiments. The stress under given loads is obtained through simulation, and the corresponding life is derived from the S–N curve. Using the given permissible lifespan, the limit state function for gear fatigue reliability analysis is established. This function is then approximated using an active learning surrogate model, and the probability of failure is subsequently estimated. Furthermore, to enhance computational efficiency and accuracy, this paper reviews the origin of active learning strategy and defines an improvement function aimed at structural reliability analysis by drawing an analogy to the derivation process of the expected improvement (EI) learning function in the efficient global optimization (EGO) algorithm. Consequently, a novel learning function for active learning Kriging-based reliability analysis is derived. The application of this method to aero-engine gears made of 17CrNiMo6 steel verifies that it effectively enhances the efficiency of fatigue reliability analysis under ensuring a certain accuracy.
Turbulent Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics of Novel Vortex Ribs in a Rotating Channel
Authors: Xu Chao , Chen Jianian , Rao Yu , Luan Yong
Published: January 2025

Heat transfer and pressure loss characteristics of a novel Vortex rib in a cooling channel have been studied both experimentally and numerically under the Reynolds numbers from 10,000 to 80,000 and rotation numbers from 0 to 0.385. The Vortex rib is proposed by combining W-rib and W-patterned oblong dimple. Compared with the W-rib, the Vortex rib enhances heat transfer by up to 11.4% (Re = 10,000 and Ro = 0.31) while reducing the pressure loss by up to 18.7% (Re = 32,000 and Ro = 0) under non-rotating and rotating conditions. Compared to the W-patterned oblong dimple, the heat transfer of the Vortex rib increases by up to 47.9%. The heat transfer dead zones are significantly improved by near-wall vortex induced by Vortex rib. The Vortex rib can appreciably reduce the turbulent mixing intensity in the mainstream of the cooling fluid but keep the near-wall high turbulent mixing intensity, guaranteeing the turbulent heat transport capacity. Thus, the heat transfer can be improved while maintaining the pressure loss in the channel.
Technical Basis for Revising the Fatigue Crack Growth Rates for Ferritic Steels in the ASME Code Section XI
Authors: Hasegawa Kunio , Yamaguchi Yoshihito , Udyawar Anees
Published: January 2025

Fatigue crack growth thresholds ΔKth and reference fatigue crack growth rate da/dN curves for ferritic steels in air environment are provided in Appendix Y of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section XI. Therein, ΔKth and da/dN are expressed as a function of stress ratio R; however, the R is not explicit, when R is negative. The thresholds ΔKth are given as constant values for negative R, and the definition of ΔKth is ambiguous. In addition, the ASME provides three equations for da/dN under negative R; however, the boundary between the three equations is not technically known. Thus, the dependency of da/dN on negative R is not well understood. Herein, revised ΔKth values for negative R are provided based on experimental data, and a new boundary between the two equations for da/dN is defined using crack opening behavior and the R dependency of da/dN based on a literature survey.
Veterans’ Motivation, Preference, and Feedback After Completing a Novel Physical Therapy Treatment
Authors: Ogawa Elisa F. , Harris Rebekah , Moye Jennifer , Bean Jonathan F. , Kim Bo
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study evaluated Veterans’ motivation and perception of different components of a novel physical therapy (PT) treatment aimed at increasing mobility, motivation, and exercise adoption. Methods: Patient-satisfaction surveys were administered to middle-aged to older Veterans (≥50 years old) with slow walking speed who completed the 8-week PT treatment. Mixed methods were employed to assess rating-based responses and examine themes derived from open-ended responses. Results: Twenty-three participants completed the surveys (mean age: 73 years, Short Physical Performance Battery: 8.5, 96% male). Overall, participants were satisfied with the PT treatment (80%), and over 85% responded that the PT treatment met its objectives by improving their mobility. Veterans rated functional power training as challenging and the most valuable component of Live Long Walk Strong mobility training. Factors that influenced Veterans’ motivations for meeting their exercise goals, were having a personal goal, a motivated physical therapist, and scheduled appointments. Participants rated aspects of behavioral coaching to be “somewhat useful” or “very useful.” Approximately half of the Veterans did not use the exercise journal to keep track of their home exercises. Reasons for not using the exercise journal were feeling busy or already having an exercise routine. Conclusion: Our results highlight the importance of prescribing challenging and meaningful PT treatment even among mobility-limited Veterans. Veterans may achieve their exercise goals by being instructed by a motivated physical therapist, having personal goals, and scheduling future appointments. There may be individual variability among those who may benefit from aspects of behavioral coaching and may need to be adjusted based on Veteran’s needs.
Early Surgical Treatment of Posttraumatic Myositis Ossificans of the Vastus Intermedius Muscle
Authors: Kalebić Pave , Šegulja Silvije , Miletić Bojan , Vlahović Hrvoje , Starčević-Klasan Gordana
Published: January 2025

Context: This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of early surgical excision of the traumatic myositis ossificans of the vastus intermedius muscle in an elite football player and return to sports activity within 3 months from the initial injury. Case presentation: A 27-year-old male professional football player presented with progressive pain and loss of range of motion after sustaining a severe, right quadriceps contusion 4 weeks earlier. After unsuccessful conservative therapy, the differential diagnosis of myositis ossificans was suspected and confirmed on radiographic examination. MRI revealed significant edema encompassing a substantial portion of the vastus intermedius muscle. Management and outcomes: Surgical treatment was considered for the right thigh mass, being symptomatic 1 month after the onset and refractory to conservative treatment and rehabilitation program. At 2 months postsurgery, the patient was asymptomatic and had completed a rehabilitation program. Conclusion: Early surgical treatment followed-up with a rehabilitation program results with a complete recovery of muscle strength and range of motion. At 3 months postinitial injury, the patient was considered fully recovered and had returned to the match without reporting pain or other symptoms.
Magnetic reconnection and energy extraction from a Konoplya–Zhidenko rotating non-Kerr black hole
Authors: Long Fen , Wang Shangyun , Chen Songbai , Jing Jiliang
Published: January 2025

Recently, magnetic reconnection has attracted considerable attention as a novel energy extraction mechanism, relying on the rapid reconnection of magnetic field lines within the ergosphere. We have investigated the properties of the energy extraction via magnetic reconnection in a Konoplya–Zhidenko rotating non-Kerr black hole spacetime with an extra deformation parameter. Our results show that the positive deformation parameter expands the possible region of energy extraction and improves the maximum power, maximum efficiency, and the maximum ratio of energy extraction between magnetic reconnection and the Blandford–Znajek process. This means that in the Konoplya–Zhidenko rotating non-Kerr black hole spacetime one can extract more energy via magnetic reconnection than in the Kerr black hole case. These effects of the deformation parameter may provide valuable clues for future astronomical observations of black holes and verification of gravity theories.
The Maximum Influence k-Plex Problem and its Branch-and-Bound Algorithm
Authors: Peng Liangyao , Cheng Xue , Zheng Zhifei , Tang Zhongyou , Jiang Hua
Published: January 2025

The [Formula: see text]-plex is a relaxation of the classical clique structure, which is usually used to characterize the cohesiveness of a subgroup in social networks. In this paper, we propose a new notion called the k-plex influence to depict the outward connection of a [Formula: see text]-plex. The influence of a [Formula: see text]-plex is defined as the number of outside vertices adjacent to the vertices of the [Formula: see text]-plex. With the new notion, we can distinguish different [Formula: see text]-plexes and find more pivotal subgroups in networks. We propose an exact algorithm to find the [Formula: see text]-plex with the maximum influence. The algorithm implements a branch-and-bound approach, in which we integrate a novel upper bound and an effective preprocessing strategy. We conducted experiments to evaluate the performance of the algorithm and compared it with the general mixed integer linear programming approach. The results show that both the preprocessing strategy and the upper bound can effectively reduce the search space, and the proposed branch-and-bound algorithm can solve the problem in massive graphs effectively and has a significant performance advantage over the general mixed integer linear programming approach.
Stochastic optical soliton perturbations in optical metamaterial couplers with parabolic nonlocal nonlinearity and advanced dispersion analysis
Authors: Zayed Elsayed M. E. , El-Shater Mona , Murad Muhammad Amin S. , Secer Aydin , Ozisik Muslum , Arnous Ahmed H.
Published: January 2025

This study delves into the perturbed stochastic nonlinear Schrödinger equation in an optical coupler for metamaterials, introducing a parabolic nonlocal law for refractive index nonlinearity, eighth-order dispersion, and multiplicative white noise. An enhanced version of Kudryashov’s method, combined with the direct algebraic method, is utilized to examine stochastic effects in nonlinear optical systems. The findings reveal diverse solution types such as dark and singular solitons, Weierstrass and Jacobi doubly periodic solutions, and straddled solitons, showcasing the complex dynamics driven by nonlocal nonlinearity and higher-order dispersion under stochastic conditions. This pioneering work on the nonlinear Schrödinger equation with a parabolic nonlocal nonlinearity and eighth-order dispersion investigates the impact of random fluctuations on nonlinear dynamics, advancing our understanding of light propagation at higher frequencies. The study aims to inspire further research into the behavior of light in unique materials and the development of more efficient light-based devices, leveraging the insights gained to innovate advanced communication tools and other optical devices, highlighting the response of these materials to random disturbances.
Mixed Integer Programming Model Based on Branch Delimitation-Relaxation Variables Application in Sustainable Supply Chain Enterprise Management
Authors: Zhong Qi’an
Published: January 2025

With the advancement of global sustainable development goals, promoting sustainable supply chain management has become the key to enhance the competitiveness of enterprises. However, it is difficult for the existing management methods to deal with the balance between cost, efficiency and environmental impact, and the complexity of decision-making under uncertain conditions has increased significantly. Therefore, a mixed integer programming model based on the branch delimitation method and relaxation variables is proposed to transform the enterprise management problem of the sustainable supply chain into a mathematical programming model. With the goal of minimizing the total cost, the effective search is carried out through boundary conditions and priority queues, and the relaxation variable technique is used to reduce the complexity of the problem and ensure that the model can still obtain a feasible solution when considering the uncertainty factors. The results showed that the hybrid integer programming model had the smallest annual discount cost, the largest number of item searches, and an average processing time of less than 2 s, which effectively solved the problem between supplier selection and order allocation in the supply network, and showed good algorithm efficiency and application efficiency. The model can provide reference guidance for enterprise management decision-making and provide a reference value for the improvement of enterprise environmental, social and economic performance.
The inverted weak Schur numbers
Authors: Zeng Haiyu , Zeng Yuehua , Zhang Yanbo
Published: January 2025

The inverted weak Schur number [Formula: see text] refers to the smallest positive integer [Formula: see text] such that any [Formula: see text]-coloring of [Formula: see text] inevitably contains a solution to the equation: [Formula: see text] with at least one color absent from this solution. When [Formula: see text], this value was completely determined by Budden and Clifton (2021). This paper further establishes the value for [Formula: see text], specifically [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], thereby refuting a conjecture proposed by Budden and Clifton (2021).
Motion of fast and superfast domain walls during polarization reversal in crystals of lithium niobate family
Authors: Kipenko I. A. , Akhmatkhanov A. R. , Shur V. Ya.
Published: January 2025

We have studied the kinetics of domain walls in lithium niobate (LN) crystals with stoichiometric and magnesium oxide doped compositions. We have analyzed the kinetic maps of the switching process to separate the main types of domain walls, their relative input and their field- and orientation-velocity dependence. All obtained domain walls were divided into three groups characterized by orientations and velocity: “slow walls”, “fast walls” and “superfast walls”. The dominant role of the fast and superfast walls in the switching process in the whole field range for studied crystals was revealed. The measured kinetic Wulff plot demonstrates the six-fold symmetry for the slow walls and three-fold symmetry for fast and superfast walls. The measured field dependencies of slow, fast and superfast domain wall velocities in all studied crystals were analyzed using two alternative approaches by linear and exponential fittings. The obtained wall orientations were attributed to the wall structure, characterized by averaged step length (kink concentration). It is shown that the mobilities of all types of walls in stoichiometric LN are several orders of magnitude higher than in doped crystals. In contrast, the threshold fields demonstrate a pronounced dependence on composition, which was attributed to dependence on the deviation from the stoichiometry and the healing role of the doping by MgO. Detailed studies of the kinetics of domain walls of various orientations in the main representatives of the LN family are important for further development of domain engineering methods for creation of the nonlinear optical frequency conversion devices.
Synergetic Effect of Nb–V on Mechanical, Tribological and Corrosion Properties of AISI 603 Steel Produced via Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Erhaime Mohamed E. E. , Cug Harun , Erden M. Akif , Akgul Yasin , Incesu Alper , Cicek Bunyamin
Published: January 2025

AISI 603 steel is a low-carbon, nickel–chromium–molybdenum alloy commonly used in various industrial applications, including the automotive, aerospace, heavy machinery, oil and gas, defense and power generation industries, due to its high strength, toughness, wear resistance and heat treatability. These mechanical properties can be further enhanced by the addition of microalloying elements such as niobium (Nb) and vanadium (V). Although AISI 603 steel is typically produced by casting, the powder metallurgy (PM) method offers several advantages over traditional production techniques. In this study, AISI 603 steel was produced using PM and reinforced with Nb, V and an Nb–V combination. The microstructure, phase composition, corrosion behavior, density and hardness of the samples were analyzed. Additionally, tensile and wear tests were conducted at room temperature and [Formula: see text]C. The results indicated that the addition of Nb positively impacted hardness and wear resistance compared to V, although it led to a more pronounced deterioration in corrosion resistance. The Nb–V-reinforced sample exhibited the highest tensile strength.