bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Texas microfungi: a new species of Corynesporopsis (Xylariales) associated with the trifoliate orange
Authors: DELGADO GREGORIO , KOUKOL ONDŘEJ , COLBERT WILLIAM
Published: August 2023

Corynesporopsis ponciri sp. nov. is described from dead twigs, branches, and thorns still attached to trees of Poncirus trifoliata, the trifoliate orange, in Texas, U.S.A. The fungus is characterized by black, punctiform at first, later caespitose and hairy colonies forming large superficial patches covering almost entirely the surface of colonized parts of the host, unbranched conidiophores, solitary or fasciculate and arising from substomatal, compact stromata in loose to dense fascicles and bearing monotretic, mostly determinate, rarely percurrent conidiogenous cells. Conidia are ellipsoidal or fusiform to naviculiform, smooth or verruculose, brown, often with the apical cell light brown, euseptate, with 2, rarely 1 or 3 septa, usually with an associated dark band and forming short, unbranched, acropetal chains of up to four conidia. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses suggested that C. ponciri belongs within the Xylariales and forms a strongly supported monophyletic lineage sister to members of Vamsapriya in Vamsapriyaceae. Corynesporopsis is revealed as polyphyletic based on this and the other two species with available molecular data, C. iberica and C. acaciae. The newly described fungus is compared with morphologically similar species of Corynesporopsis and Heteroconium having 1- or 2-septate conidia and phylogenetic affinities of these polyphyletic anamorphic genera are discussed. The mode and successful colonization of dead parts of the host with conidiophores arising from substomatal stromata suggest that C. ponciri may have a putative endophytic stage and it is capable of switching to a saprobic lifestyle upon senescence or death of the host.
Lepiota albofloccosa, a new species in sect. Lepiota (Agaricaceae, Agaricales) from Northwestern Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir, India
Authors: AHAMED MASOOD , VERMA KOMAL , DUTTA ARUN KUMAR , SHARMA YASH PAL
Published: August 2023

Lepiota albofloccosa is proposed here from India based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of the nuclear rDNA internal transcribed spacer and large subunit of rDNA region. The combination of morphological and molecular data confirmed the novelty of this species and its infrageneric placement within Lepiota sect. Lepiota. This species was found in the debris under Picea smithiana and is characterized by a snow white to milky white pileus with pale yellow to brownish yellow umbo, a scaly to cottony pileus surface with floccose velar remnants, fusiform to cylindrical, slightly thick-walled, dextrinoid basidiospores, and pileus covering a trichoderm composed of elongated hyphae. A detailed description, illustrations, and comparisons with morphologically similar and related taxa are provided here.
A review of the genus Plutodes Guenée (Geometridae: Ennominae) from India with description of one new species
Authors: SINGH MANPREET , RAHA ANGSHUMAN , MALLICK KAUSHIK , KIRTI JAGBIR SINGH , SINGH NAVNEET
Published: August 2023

In the present paper, we discuss the taxonomy of 11 species of Plutodes Guenée, [1858], collected from different regions of India, including description of one new species, P. quadratus sp. nov. Herein, we provide an identification key to all the Indian species, diagnoses and updated distributions of the studied species and a consolidated global checklist of 36 species and 2 subspecies (including 13 species from India) along with their distributions and synonyms. The study also includes downgrading of P. digitata Kirti & Saxena, 2019 as a new junior synonym of P. lamisca Swinhoe, 1894. Species diagnoses are accompanied by illustrations of habitus and genitalia, including the first time illustrated diagnoses of male genitalia of four species.
Progressive Skull Osteolysis in the Setting of Endotine Implantation: A Case Report
Authors: Ma Emily , Smith Sullivan , Simon Joshua , Prabhu Vikram , Pittman Amy
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

To report a case of a 71-year-old woman who presented 8 years following 2 endoscopic brow lift procedures for evaluation of bony irregularities of her frontoparietal skull. To highlight a novel complication of Endotine fixation following an endoscopic brow lift procedure.

Methods:

A chart review, bicoronal cranioplasty and a review of literature.

Results:

The patient was satisfied with her post-surgical outcome and no complications were observed at the 1-month follow-up visit. A review of the literature revealed no previous reports of focal skull osteolysis relating to Endotine implants.

Conclusion:

We believe that our patient’s focal calvarial osteolysis is a direct complication of Endotine fixation. Future research into the long-term effects of endoscopic brow lift procedures using Endotine implants is necessary to help ensure patient safety and guide future practices.
A sociological genealogy of transcendence
Authors: Gil-Gimeno Javier , Aguiluz-Ibargüen Maya
Published: August 2023

The aim of this article is to carry out a sociological genealogy of transcendence – understood as a condition of possibility of creativity – articulated from three milestones in its conceptual evolution: The first focuses on the study of the link between transcendence and religiosity in the scenario of primitive societies. We will stop to study how, as Émile Durkheim shows in The Elementary Forms of Religious Life, in this type of society transcendence acted and was articulated mainly through two types of mechanisms: ritual and collective effervescence. The second milestone is established theoretically on the basis of the analysis of transcendence carried out by Hans Joas, in his work The Power of the Sacred, and by Georg Simmel, in ‘Life as Transcendence’. For the former, transcendence is sacredness that becomes reflexive, while for the latter, transcendence is the essence of social life, and implies an exercise of going beyond oneself. In this second moment in the sociological evolution of transcendence we focus on its reflexive dimension, linked to the fact that, since the emergence of the Axial era (800-200 BC), the subject becomes an object for itself, a problem to which answers must be given, whether in terms of soteriology or truth. The third milestone analyzes what we can call ‘variable geometries of transcendence’, and for its study we take as a reference the typology of transcendences articulated by Alfred Schutz and Thomas Luckmann in their work The Structures of Social Life (vol. 2), which unfolds around three categories: ‘Little Transcendencies’, ‘Medium Transcendencies’ and ‘Great Transcendencies’. In this scenario, the sociological key is provided not so much by the decline of the formulas of religious transcendence, but by the coexistence of different and heterogeneous formulas of transcendence (secular and religious) that struggle to obtain a voice and social recognition in the civil sphere.
An Intersectional Examination of Economic Hardship and Individualized Education Program Meeting Participation
Authors: Lombardi Allison R. , Rifenbark Graham G. , Taconet Ashley
Published: August 2023

In this preregistered study, we confirmed a transition-planning construct and determined its relationship with an established economic-hardship construct using parent- and youth-reported data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2012 and following established quality indicators of preregistered secondary data analyses studies. Transition planning was made up of seven items relevant to individualized education program (IEP) meeting participation. We examined measurement invariance on the basis of disability category and race/ethnicity as well as the intersection of these student characteristics in order to make unbiased group comparisons on key latent parameters. Contrary to our hypotheses, there was no meaningful correlation between transition planning and economic hardship. Moreover, we were unable to establish measurement invariance of transition planning because the item “youth's role in IEP meeting” functioned differently on the basis of disability category. Implications for practice are discussed regarding how decisions about IEP meeting participation are made, by whom and why, and whether evidence-based practices are effectively disseminated. Future research should ensure adequate sampling plans for national survey attempts in order to conduct an in-depth examination based on intersectional student characteristics.
I Trends on COVID-19 and Populism
Authors: de Ghantuz Cubbe Giovanni
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 crisis has challenged political and health institutions around the world. Political scientists have been particularly interested in, among several other interconnected issues, the pandemic’s relationship to populism. This trend article provides an up-to-date general classification of the current literature on COVID-19 and populism. In order to systematize the diverse approaches, it divides research into five macro-areas. Finally, it points out the methodologies employed by the literature, the results obtained so far, and the remaining challenges to be analyzed. One of the most significant conclusions is that the politicization of COVID-19 and the high levels of social and political polarization observed during the pandemic strongly affected the responses of different institutions, which led to significant consequences in terms of the relationships between levels of government.
The Assange Case: Transnational Prosecution of Investigative Journalism
Authors: Florijančič Polona
Published: August 2023

This paper highlights the need to reintroduce the political offence exception to extradition in cases of non-violent crime into UK domestic law and beyond. The article examines the recent developments in the case of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange with an emphasis on the judicial outcomes in the extradition proceedings before UK courts in matters relevant to freedom of the press. The case makes for an interesting subject because it concerns both objectively a political crime as well as arguably political persecution. The question of extradition is being played out between two closely allied countries which converge in applying their secrecy laws in an increasingly expansive manner crucially encroaching upon standard practices of national security investigative journalism. The article concludes that an introduction of the public interest or affirmative defence and the testimony of purpose into secrecy laws are essential in democratic societies. It further concludes that the evisceration of a political offence exception to extradition in non-violent crimes is a regrettable trend that should be reversed. Said exception is the single most powerful tool in extradition regulation serving to prevent political persecution and it is essential for protecting national security investigative journalists from extradition in cases such as that of Assange.
“The Classroom is a Reflection of the Real World”: Black Women Urban Teachers’ Activist Pedagogy and Leadership
Authors: Gabbadon Andrea T. , Brooks Wanda M.
Published: August 2023

This article utilizes narrative inquiry and a Black feminist lens to explore the political and social justice orientation of Black women educators and their commitment to students in urban schools. Three Black women teacher leaders explain their pedagogy and leadership during a period of heightened sociopolitical tension, including racial violence and legislative censorship. Analysis of semistructured interviews revealed three themes: (1) facilitating conversations about race-related current events, (2) de-centering whiteness and teaching the truth, and (3) promoting student safety and wellbeing amidst isolation. The article concludes with recommendations to support Black women educator activists and a more diverse teacher workforce.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Self-Efficacy as a Resilience Measure: Evidence From PISA 2018
Authors: Kaya Sibel , Eryilmaz Nurullah , Yuksel Dogan
Published: August 2023

This study explored the equivalence of resilience across countries and economies that participated in PISA 2018. A total of 79 countries and economies were divided into ten sub-groups based on their socio-demographic characteristics. Analysis of the comparability of the PISA self-efficacy scale as a measure of resilience across the participating countries/economies in the study was conducted using multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MG-CFA). The results demonstrated that across all countries and economies, the configural invariance level, which is the lowest level of invariance, has been reached but the metric and scalar invariance levels have not been reached. Within-group results showed that all sub-groups presented a model fit for the metric level of invariance. However, only the Anglo countries were able to reach the strict invariance level. This finding indicates that the Anglo countries were more homogeneous in terms of their interpretation of self-efficacy in PISA, whereas other sub-groups were more heterogeneous. Confirming the notion of cultural affiliation of resilience, it was concluded that self-efficacy by itself might not be an adequate indicator of resilience. The current study has some recommendations for future research and how PISA can be more inclusive about the constructs it employs.
QTc prolongation in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics: Prevalence and risk factors
Authors: Du Wei , Ge Meng-Wei , Hu Fei-Hong , Jia Yi-Jie , Zhao Dan-Yan , Cheng Yu-Jie , Chen Hong-Lin
Published: August 2023

Background:

QTc prolongation is one of the possible complications in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics, which leads to malignant cardiac arrhythmia. No meta-analysis has been reported assessing the prevalence and correlated risk factors for QTc prolongation.

Methods:

This meta-analysis aimed to assess the evidence for the prevalence of QTc prolongation and correlated risk factors in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics. Web of Science and PubMed were searched according to preset strategy. The quality of research was assessed by the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS).

Results:

In all, 15 studies covering 15,540 patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics were included. Meta-analysis showed that the prevalence of QTc prolongation in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics was about 4.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 3.0%–5.0%, p < 0.001). The prevalence was about 4.0% in Asia (95%CI: 3.0%–6.0%, p < 0.001), about 5.0% in Europe (95%CI: 2.0%–7.0%, p < 0.001), and about 2.0% in America (95%CI: 1.0%–3.0%, p < 0.001). Sensitivity analyses indicated the robustness of the result. Publication bias analysis reported a certain publication bias ( t = 3.37, p = 0.012). Meta-regression suggested that female and elderly patients were clinically associated with a higher prevalence of QTc prolongation. According to included studies, smoking, comorbidity of cardiovascular disease, and abnormal levels of high-density lipoprotein/low-density lipoprotein might be related to QTc prolongation in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of QTc prolongation in patients with schizophrenia taking antipsychotics was about 4.0%. Female and elderly patients were more likely to experience QTc prolongation. Close electrocardiogram monitoring was suggested in these at-risk populations.
Perioperative administration of dexamethasone to prevent postoperative shivering: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Tu Qiguo , Zhou Rong , Wan Zhengzuo , Chen Shan , Yang Qinqin , Que Bin
Published: August 2023

Objective

To evaluate the perioperative administration of dexamethasone to prevent postoperative shivering.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for relevant studies of the administration of dexamethasone to prevent postoperative shivering published through 31 May 2023. The primary outcome was the incidence of postoperative shivering. Secondary outcomes comprised the incidence of postoperative nausea, vomiting, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). RevMan 5.3 software was used for the data analysis.

Results

We included 12 randomized controlled trials (1276 participants). The results revealed a benefit favoring the perioperative administration of dexamethasone to prevent postoperative shivering (relative risk [RR]: 0.39; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23–0.63), as well as the grade of shivering. The administration of dexamethasone also reduced the incidence of postoperative nausea (RR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.39–0.73), postoperative vomiting (RR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.20–0.65), and PONV (RR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.26–0.95) compared with the control group.

Conclusion

This study indicated that perioperative administration of dexamethasone prevented postoperative shivering and decreased the incidence of other complications. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020164488.
Neoadjuvant therapy for HER2-positive acantholytic squamous cell breast carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Cong Jia , Jo HyonSu , Zou Na , Kong LingXin , Ri HyokJu
Published: August 2023

HER2-positive acantholytic squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) of the breast is exceptionally rare, and its clinicopathologic features are poorly understood. The impact of neoadjuvant therapy on HER2-positive breast ASCC is unclear. Here we report on a 58-year-old woman who was diagnosed with HER2-positive ASCC of the right breast, who underwent neoadjuvant treatment with albumin-paclitaxel, carboplatin, and trastuzumab, and surgery. Neoadjuvant therapy was effective, with no recurrence or metastasis after 1.5 years of postoperative follow-up.
Why Matter Matters: Conflict-Related Sexual Violence and the Relevance of New Materialism
Authors: Clark Janine Natalya
Published: August 2023

New materialism encompasses a heterogeneous range of perspectives – which share some common themes with Indigenous beliefs and cosmologies – that collectively recognise the vibrancy and affective capabilities of matter. This novel interdisciplinary article makes an important conceptual and empirical contribution to addressing the fact that, to date, scholarship on conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) has largely overlooked new materialism. The article is not seeking to convince readers that a new materialist framework is superior to other frameworks applied to CRSV research. The objective, rather, is to demonstrate that new materialism can further enrich how we approach and study CRSV. It explores how new materialism challenges us to think in expanded and more creative ways about two concepts that are widely emphasised in extant scholarship on CRSV – structure and agency. It also draws on interviews with victims-/survivors of CRSV in Bosnia-Herzegovina to practically illustrate the relevance of new materialism and to suggest some potential avenues for future research. The article makes clear that adding a new materialist lens to the study of CRSV is not about diminishing the importance of victims-/survivors, their experiences and narratives. It is about situating them within wider relational and affective assemblages, asking new questions and acknowledging the significance of non-human agencies.

Pourquoi la matière importe: Les violences sexuelles liées aux conflits et la pertinence du néo-matérialisme
The Role of Digital Technologies in Facilitating Psychosocial Resilience to Sudden Social Isolation Among Older Adults: Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Newmark Rebecca L. , Allison Theresa A. , Smith Alexander K. , Perissinotto Carla M. , Tha Soe Han , Kotwal Ashwin A.
Published: August 2023

This study investigated how older adults adopted new technologies in response to sudden social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and how this adoption was related to their long-term psychosocial well-being. The study involved a 6-month longitudinal survey of 151 older adults and two phone-based focus groups, which informed a semi-structured interview guide and purposive sampling of diverse community-dwelling older adults. We then conducted twenty qualitative interviews and thematic analysis and mapped themes to 6-month quantitative trajectories of psychosocial health. Three themes emerged: first, most participants adopted multiple technologies to maintain social connection and psychosocial well-being. Second, participants felt left behind by certain technologies due to complicated systems or ageist societal norms. Third, pandemic-related community resources promoted technology independence among isolated older adults and those wanting to avoid “burdening” family. Results challenge ageist stereotypes and provide a framework for encouraging access and comfort with multiple technologies to adapt to sudden health crises or disruptive events.
COVID-19 and Policing: A Qualitative Study of Sheriff Departments in Rural Indiana
Authors: Gallagher Christian W. , Akgul Arif , Sozer Mehmet A. , Avdija Avdi S. , Pickens Samual J.
Published: August 2023

The main objective of this research was to explore and analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on practices in law enforcement and jails, with a specific focus on sheriff departments serving in small, rural counties in the state of Indiana. This study identified and analyzed various issues and trends pertaining to COVID-19's effect upon jail and offender management, patrol and criminal investigation, personnel and offender safety, public service and expectations, courthouse trial and case management, and community trust in sheriff departments. Semi-structured interviews were employed with current sheriffs working in four different counties in Indiana in this qualitative research. The results showed that COVID-19 has brought to the forefront two major themes: (a) precautions taken by sheriff departments against COVID-19 and (b) changes in the way the criminal justice system works. Findings were further grouped into three categories according to each sheriff’s sentiments: negative (e.g., increase in expenses, loss of workforce, and mental health), positive (e.g., decrease in the workload and decrease in jail population), and mixed (e.g., precautions against COVID-19, changing crime patterns, and trust). The study concluded that COVID-19 caused a wave of change that sent ripples through these communities, the criminal justice system, and sheriff departments in particular.
The management and prevention of food losses and waste in low- and middle-income countries: A mini-review in the Africa region
Authors: Mmereki Daniel , David Victor Emery , Wreh Brownell Alfred H
Published: August 2023

This mini-review analyses food losses and waste (FLW) management in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and identifies potential strategies to improve FLW management efficiency on the African continent. To achieve this aim, a search of grey and published scientific literature-case studies, feasibility studies, theses, peer-reviewed journals, governments and technical reports was performed. Food waste (FW) per capita in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) was determined to be between 6 and 11 kg capita−1 year−1. Factors militating against FLW management include a lack of infrastructure, waste reduction and mandatory waste management plans, financial support for food redistribution programmes, awareness and a lack of knowledge of FW management and effective approaches. Poor recovery systems, a lack of incentives in FW recycling programmes, a lack of a regulatory and policy framework and institutional weaknesses as well as a lack of sufficient and appropriate education programmes to improve FW source separation and collection rates are all significant challenges in the African region, with negative consequences for the environment and public health. Except for fuel conversion and food scraps for digestion to recover energy, there is a huge potential for composting and using FW as a digestate, which could eventually lead to a reduction in the amount of FW being landfilled or incinerated. The study explores potential interventions to reduce amount of FLW and form a basis for future research in this field and improving FW management efficiency in LMCs, especially on the continent of Africa. It also provides information that could assist researchers, policymakers and decision-makers reduce amount of FLW, aid in the utilization of FW for energy production, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the continent, as well as support the achievement of other sustainable development goals, such as 12.3, which is particularly important in the context of the African continent, which is dependent on food imports.
Examining Standards Related to Family–Professional Partnerships for Education Professionals
Authors: Burke Meghan M. , Li Chak , Johnston Amanda , Carter Richard , Zhang Ling , Francis Grace L. , Turnbull Ann P.
Published: August 2023

Family–professional partnerships are essential for promoting positive outcomes for students with and without disabilities. However, the extent to which professional preparation standards address skills to cultivate family–professional partnerships is unclear. Without this knowledge, it is challenging to understand the preparation of education professionals in developing partnerships with families. The purpose of this study is to explore the relation between preparation standards and two factors of family–professional partnerships (i.e., enhancing connection and enhancing capacity) for general and special education teachers as well as other education professionals. The authors use expert review to identify and evaluate 159 professional preparation standards from 15 Specialized Professional Associations and the Interstate New Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium in relation to the two factors. Findings showed no significant differences among the standards in relation to enhancing connection among family–professional partnerships. Standards related exclusively to special education, younger students, or teachers (vs other education professionals) were significantly more likely to reflect enhancing capacity among family–professional partnerships. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Decomposing the Gap in Contraceptive Use Among Female Adolescents and Young Women Aged 15-24 in India: An Analysis of Appended Datasets of NFHS-4 and 5
Authors: Sharma Himani , Singh Shri Kant
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Owing to the reproductive health needs of the budding adolescent and young population, the present study aims to determine the factors associated with and decomposing the gap in contraceptive use among adolescents and young women in India.

Design

Cross sectional design. SettingThe present study is based in India using the appended datasets (IV and V rounds) of the Indian Demographic Health Survey (DHS), also known as National Family Health Survey (NFHS) conducted in 2015-16 and 2019-21.

Sample

The adequate sample size was 475,294 adolescents and young women in NFHS-4 and 229,705 in NFHS-5, totaling 704,999 adolescents (appended for NFHS-4 and 5) for the present study.

Measures

Sociodemographic, sexual and reproductive history and contraceptive measures.

Analysis

Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and a binary logistic regression model were executed. Additionally, a decomposition technique called Fairlie decomposition was employed to identify the primary causes of the difference in the prevalence of contraceptive use between the two survey periods.

Results

Almost 96% of young women aged 15-24 knew about contraception, but only 12% used it. Regression analysis revealed that contraceptive use was associated with higher age (AOR 1.09), higher education (AOR 1.28), married adolescents (AOR 4.08), richest wealth quantile (AOR 2.95), joint decision making (AOR 4.40), knowledge of ovulatory cycle (AOR 1.47), interaction with a health worker about any methods of family planning (AOR 3.29) and three and above children ever born (AOR 18.54). Decomposition analysis showed that factors like decision-making of contraception, age, interaction with family planning worker, the intention of last pregnancy, place of residence and age at first sex contributed to increasing the probability of contraceptive use from NFHS-4 to 5.

Conclusion

A target-based approach dedicated to understanding the mindset of adolescents and keeping up with their unique needs is the need of the hour.
Analysis and optimization of junction between cylindrical part and end dome of filament wound pressure vessels using data driven evolutionary algorithms
Authors: Vondráček Dominik , Padovec Zdeněk , Mareš Tomáš , Chakraborti Nirupam
Published: August 2023

The junction between cylindrical part and end dome is the most critical place of the filament wound composite pressure vessels because the shear forces and bending moments occur in this area. The strength analyses of junction between cylindrical part and different types of known end domes based on influence coefficients method were performed for filament wound composite pressure vessels manufactured using glass-epoxy and carbon-epoxy composites. Four known end domes were considered that is, a spherical shell, a geodesic-isotensoid shell, a shell based on minimizing of the Tsai-Hill’s strength criterion and shell designed in authors’ previous work (Hoffman 1 shell). Moreover, the study is also dealing with design of optimal end dome shape which takes account to the junction area. Finding of optimal end dome shape was based on data-driven evolutionary algorithms. Using input dataset from the analytical simulation surrogate models were created using Evolutionary Deep Neural Nets (EvoDN2) algorithm. The multicriterial optimization procedure was performed using Constrained Reference Vector Algorithm (cRVEA) optimization algorithm. Results indicates that the optimal end dome shape highly depend on material properties.
Development of a new seat isolation system for ameliorating the driver’s ride quality
Authors: Jiang Jinyu , Nguyen Vanliem , Jiao Renqiang , Zha Jili , Mei Yundong
Published: August 2023

This study proposes the seat’s three isolation systems including the three parallel isolations (TPI), the quasi-zero stiffness structure (QSS) embedded in the seat’s isolation system, and a combination of the QSS and TPI (QSS-TPI) for ameliorating the ride quality of the driver. From the dynamic models of the TPI, QSS, and QSS-TPI established, their parameters are optimized and simulated to compare the performance between the TPI, QSS, and QSS-TPI in isolating the driver’s vibration. The root mean square values of the vertical acceleration ( azs), pitching acceleration ( aφs), and rolling acceleration ( aθs) of the seat have been selected as the objective functions. With optimized parameters of TPI, QSS, and QSS-TPI optimized, the research results show that the vertical acceleration of the seat using the optimized QSS is lower than that of the optimized TPI, conversely, both the pitching and rolling seat accelerations using the optimized TPI have been strongly decreased compared to the optimized QSS. With the optimized QSS-TPI, the azs is greatly reduced by 55.84% in comparison with the optimized TPI while both the aφs and aθs are strongly decreased by 98.76% and 98.46% compared to the optimized QSS. This means that the seat’s QSS-TPI ameliorate the driver’s ride quality and shaking better than that of both the seat’s TPI and QSS. From the simple structure and isolation performance of the QSS-TPI proposed, the seat’s QSS-TPI should be applied to the seat’s isolation system to ameliorate the driver’s ride quality.
Effect of interface shear strength on the support removal of laser powder bed fusion manufactured gear-type Ti6Al4 V parts
Authors: Pathania Akshay , Kumar S Anand , Nagesha BK
Published: August 2023

The present study investigated the influence of interface shear strength on the support removal effort without deviating the dimensional accuracy of laser powder bed fusion processed gear-type parts. The finite element method simulations were carried out to evaluate the effect of different process parameters of support structures on the distortion of laser powder bed fusion processed parts. Additionally, the dimensional accuracy of manufactured parts was assessed using a non-contact three-dimensional white light scanning technique. Support structures are the inevitable features in the laser powder bed fusion process. A simple in-house technique is adopted to evaluate the interface shear strength of support removal using a mechanical torque wrench. The support structures were fabricated with four different laser power and scanning speed. The results showed that all the laser powder bed fusion parts had insignificant dimensional deviation compared to the computer-aided design model despite changing the process parameters (laser power and scanning speed). However, the results indicated that ∼60% interface shear strength could be reduced with optimized process parameters which are favourable for easy part removal after printing.
A novel parameter for the prediction of rupture risk of cerebral aneurysms based on morphology
Authors: Maramkandam Eldhose Babu , Sudhir B.J. , Kannath Santhosh K. , Patnaik B.S.V
Published: August 2023

Neurosurgeons often encounter dilemmas in the clinical management of cerebral aneurysms owing to an uncertainty of their rupture status and rupture risk. This study evaluates the influence of natural frequency of an aneurysm, as a novel morphological parameter to understand and analyze rupture status and risk prediction. In this work, we employ the natural frequency of 20 idealized and 50 patient specific aneurysms. The natural frequency of patient specific aneurysms is then compared against their rupture status. A strong correlation was observed between various morphological indicators and natural frequency for ideal and patient specific geometries. A statistical analysis with both Mann Whitney U test and T-test for rupture status against natural frequency has given a p-value less than 0.01 indicating a strong correlation between them. The correlation of morphological parameters with natural frequency from Pearson correlation coefficient and T-test suggests a holistic reflection of their effects on the natural frequency of an aneurysm. Thus, natural frequency could be a good indicator to discern the rupture potential of an aneurysm. The correlation between rupture status and natural frequency makes it a novel parameter that can differentiate between ruptured and unruptured patient specific aneurysms.
Depth of the self: Implicit motives and human flourishing. Introduction to the special section
Authors: Asma Lieke , Brüntrup Godehard
Published: August 2023

This special section is the outcome of a conference organized in Würzburg, as part of the interdisciplinary research project Motivational and Volitional Processes of Human Integration: Philosophical and Psychological Approaches to Human Flourishing (2018–2021). The goal of the project was to connect (philosophical) perspectives on flourishing to empirical research that suggests that implicit motives play an important role in who we are and what we do and decide. One main aim was to find a middle ground between two extremes that conceptualize implicit motives either as recalcitrant states that hamper flourishing, or as reflecting who we really are, much more than our explicit motives. We propose that both implicit and explicit motives are crucial to flourishing. The articles in this special section bring up other important questions as well. First of all, what is the role of the external world? It seems to be crucial for being a self, but it may also hamper flourishing. And second, how should the relationship between the self as basic subjectivity, and the self with certain values, desires, and intentions be understood?
Distributed state estimation for uncertain nonlinear time-delay AC islanded micro grids
Authors: Ghotb Hajar , Ataei Mohammad , Siahi Mehdi , Moarefianpour Ali
Published: August 2023

This article deals with the problem of distributed observer design containing time delays for uncertain nonlinear distributed generators systems in alternating current–islanded micro grids. In contrast with the centralized observer with the ability to accumulate full output of the plant, we design a set of distributed observers, each having access to partial output of the plant through a distributed observer network. Each observer obtains partial plant output and communicates with its neighboring observers through consensus network. The design method is based on the Lipschitz condition of uncertain nonlinear terms while having time-delay system in view. Suitable selection of Lyapunov functions is made, and the Jensen inequality is considered in delayed uncertain nonlinear micro grids in an undirected network. Furthermore, via design algorithm, the necessary and sufficient conditions for the design of parameters are determined so as to stabilize the error dynamics. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to consider the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Theorizing globalized production and digitalization: Towards a re-centering of value
Authors: Foster Christopher
Published: August 2023

Digital and data-driven technologies are having substantial impacts on global production, with growing analysis within established frameworks such as Global Value Chains (GVC) and Global Production Networks (GPN). Given the claims, however, that digitalization is leading to transformations in the patterns of production and labor, further theoretical work is needed to consider how these frameworks fit with evolving dynamics. Beginning with critiques that mainstream GVC/GPN have poorly theorized the concept of value, the paper argues that a re-centering of value is crucial for improved understanding of digitalization. To do this, broader debates in the literature on the digital economy—on rent and surplus value—are reviewed. These debates provide an expanded perspective of value including a broader understanding of forms of techno-economic rent and the growing debates on heterogeneous forms of labor, shaping production. A stronger orientation towards value within mainstream GVC/GPN studies can absorb some of these ideas, but considering the evolving forms, conventional notions of governance and upgrading may be less viable.
Stress Impact and Care for COVID-19: Pilot Education and Support Course Decreases Burnout Among Nursing Students
Authors: Peterson Kerry , Mundo William , McGladrey Laura , Aagaard Laurra M. , Stalder Sarah , Cook Paul F.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Nurses and nursing students have been at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19, often working in conditions that produce stress injuries and burnout. Early recognition and mitigation of stress and emotional trauma help prevent burnout.

Aims:

To evaluate the effectiveness of an online 8-hour stress awareness course and associated 1-hour support group in reducing stress and burnout among nursing students.

Methods:

We conducted a program evaluation for an online stress awareness pilot course offered to nursing students. The course, and associated support groups led by trained psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner students, included a common language for talking about stress, screening tools for recognizing stress injuries, and strategies for improving self-care. Students completed pre- and post-course surveys. Outcome measures included changes on course learning objectives, level of burnout, health-related locus of control, and experiences of stress and coping.

Results:

Nursing students ( n = 360) enrolled in the course, and 224 (62%) completed pre- and post-course surveys. Sixty percent rated the course excellent or very good. Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales and Impact of Event Scale Revised scores were within established normal ranges. There was a significant increase in all nine course learning objectives ( p < .001) and decreased signs of stress ( p < .001). Students’ level of burnout decreased by odds ratio = 0.58 (95% CI: [0.4, 0.9], p < .006).

Conclusions:

Nursing leaders can use psychoeducational strategies to mitigate the impact of stress, build confidence, and support nursing students entering the workforce during these unprecedented times.
Nasolabial Flap in the Management of Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis: A Series of Cases
Authors: Ullah Hidayat , Maqsood Afsheen , Faheem Samra , Khan Zafar Ali , Ganji Kiran Kumar , Bashir Omer , Ahmed Naseer , Heboyan Artak
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of the nasolabial flap in the management of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). The descriptive case series included 75 patients diagnosed with OSMF who underwent surgical intervention under general anesthesia. Preoperative mouth opening measurements were compared with postoperative measurements taken after 2 months. Regarding mouth opening, out of the 75 patients, 4 (5.3%) had unsatisfactory results after treatment, while 22 (29.3%) experienced satisfactory outcomes. The majority of patients, 49 (65.3%), achieved normal mouth opening (more than 30 mm) following the Nasolabial flap procedure. This indicates that the Nasolabial flap yielded favorable results in terms of restoring normal mouth opening and benefiting the patients. Based on the findings of this study, the Nasolabial flap was determined to be a viable surgical option for managing oral submucous fibrosis due to its ease of operation, reliable flap vascularity, and low post-operative complication rate. The only drawback identified was the presence of a surgical scar, which can be addressed through secondary correction procedures.
Color Doppler Ultrasound Assessment of Subclinical Activity With Scoring of Morphea
Authors: Parra-Cares Julio , Wortsman Ximena , Alfaro-Sepúlveda Daniela , Mellado-Francisco Gonzalo , Ramírez-Cornejo Cristian , Vera-Kellet Cristián
Published: August 2023

Background

Detection of activity in morphea is paramount for adequately managing the disease. Subclinical ultrasound involvement on inactive lesions or healthy skin areas adjacent to morphea has not been described to date.

Objectives

The study aimed to detect morphea’s subclinical activity by Color Doppler ultrasound not identified with the clinical scorings.

Materials & Methods

This cross-sectional retrospective study was done from January 2014 to July 2019 in patients with a clinicopathological diagnosis of morphea. The modified Localized Scleroderma Skin Severity Index (mLoSSI) and The Ultrasound Morphea Activity Score (US-MAS) were used to correlate clinical and subclinical activity.

Results

A total of 36 patients met the inclusion criteria. 54% of cases presented subclinical activity in areas adjacent to the clinically active lesion, 23% in nonadjacent regions, and 23% demonstrated activity at a clinically inactive lesion site. 100% of patients with morphea “en coup de sabre” involving the frontal region of the face concomitantly presented both subclinical activities of morphea on the frontal facial region and the scalp following the same axis. A positive relationship was observed between the degree of clinical activity measured by mLoSSI and US-MAS scoring. The main limitations of our study were the low number of patients and the inability to detect alterations < 0.1 mm.

Conclusions

Subclinical activity is frequent in morphea, can extend beyond the lesional areas, including apparently noninvolved adjacent and distant corporal regions, and can be detected by color Doppler ultrasound.
Earnings management practices of the lodging industry: Diverging behaviors of lodging real estate investment trusts and lodging C-corps
Authors: Gim Jaehee , Jang SooCheong (Shawn)
Published: August 2023

In an attempt to manage earnings upward, firm managers commonly deviate from normal business activities (i.e., real earnings management) and misrepresent accruals on financial reports (i.e., accrual earnings management). The current study aimed to demonstrate that due to the financial and regulatory uniqueness of lodging real estate investment trusts (REITs), lodging REITs diverge from lodging C-corporations (C-corps) in their earnings management behavior. Specifically, drawing on signaling theory and precautionary motive theory, the current study showed that compared to lodging C-corps, lodging REITs are less likely to engage in accrual earnings management but more actively conduct real earnings management. Furthermore, the deterrent impact of cash holdings on real earnings management using unusually low discretionary expenditures was found to be weaker for lodging REITs than for lodging C-corps. The findings of the current study will enhance stakeholders’ understanding of lodging firms’ earnings management behavior by shedding light on the different business types in the lodging industry.
Queer kinship: Experiences of double-motherhood in Brazil
Authors: Ril Stephany Yolanda , Mello Mônica MC , Moretti-Pires Rodrigo Otávio
Published: August 2023

A survey was conducted with nine Brazilian cisgender, non-heterosexual women who are mothers, with the aim of understanding the challenges faced by double-motherhood in Brazil. Nine interviews and one focus group were conducted online and asynchronously through WhatsApp. The data was transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed four categories: IC as a form of resistance; violence and LGBTphobia against queer motherhood; the invisibility of queer motherhood in relation to the state; and queer subjectivity. This research concludes that double-motherhood can be seen as a form of resistance, as the mothers use technologies, such as home insemination.
Threats to personhood from within the family? A study of family caregivers of people with dementia in the Chinese context
Authors: Chan On-Fung , Chui Cheryl Hiu-Kwan , Wong Gloria Hoi-Yan , Lum Terry Yat-Sang
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives

Dementia care creates ethical and legal dilemmas due to the struggle to balance the quality of care and personhood. Disagreement and conflict in caregiving relationships are common. However, limited attention has been given to particular stressful circumstances, such as care practice and decision disagreements. Moreover, the cultural context of personhood has been overlooked. This study drew on Hong Kong family caregivers’ reports of their cargiving practice and disagreements with care recipients about care-related decisions and their implications for personhood to identify person-centered family care support needs.

Research Design and Methods

We conducted 18 semi-structured interviews with family caregivers of people with dementia in Hong Kong, China. Participants were asked to share their family dementia caregiving experience and practice, specifically regarding decisions and practices that elicited disagreement. We used thematic analysis to analyze data generated from interviews.

Results

Six caregiver practices were identified: exchange for mutual agreement, a foot-in-the-door approach, acceptance of requests/behaviors contrary to the caregivers’ views, infantilization, treachery, and exclusion and imposition.

Discussion and Implications

These findings highlight the importance of providing support and guidelines for person-centered care to promote personhood in the family caregiving context in dementia care.