bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical Complete-Member Ethnography Revisited: A Heuristic Reflection of Nativeness, Insiderness, and Homeland During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kim Seonah
Published: October 2024

In this essay, I engage in autoethnographic reflection on my role as a native researcher, addressing questions and issues related to evaluating a researcher’s complete-membership in Critical Complete-Member Ethnography (CCME). I revisit CCME as a critical communication research method and introduce two contextual elements –the geopolitics of transnational mobility and cultural belongingness– to enhance the depth of self-reflection that CCME can encourage researchers to undertake. Specifically, I discuss these two components within the framework of nativeness, as these factors often involve the challenges faced by international researchers when they claim their native or insider position upon returning to their non-Western homelands to conduct ethnography. In my autoethnographic reflection, I draw on my fieldwork experience in South Korea as an instance, focusing on different conditions that destabilized my native position: institutional regulations of crossing the border during the global pandemic, my growing feeling of in-betweenness, and my performance of U.S. academic membership in the field. Through reflection, I demonstrate that nativeness is not consistently given or entitled but changing and fluctuating in different times and contexts. Ultimately, I argue that in-flux aspects of my native position complicate and expand methodological considerations for determining and accessing a researcher’s complete-membership and their epistemological intimacy with their communities in CCME.
Divided Care: Differences in the Agencies of Family Caregivers for Disabled Children in East and West Germany
Authors: Rössel Raphael
Published: October 2024

Parents and their disabled children in both German states faced discrimination and severe challenges in the organisation of family life. In the German Democratic Republic (GDR) and the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), from the 1960s onwards, parents achieved more far-reaching influence over the schooling and overall treatment of their children. The reasons for and avenues of parental empowerment were different on both sides of the border. In West Germany, collective action within a civil society framework was the major factor behind parental empowerment. In the GDR, parental protest tended to be more individualist and was often voiced via the petitioning system ( Eingaben) .
Ultimate bounded observer-based control of electrical vehicle driven by DC motor system with unmatched load torque
Authors: Hameed Akram H , Al-Samarraie Shibly A , Humaidi Amjad J
Published: October 2024

The unmatched perturbation of load torque is the essential problem in the Electrical Vehicle (EV) based DC motor which requires deep control concern for solution. In this study, the proposed solution to such a control problem is to design three observer-backstepping control schemes for speed trajectory tracking of EVs. The backstepping control algorithm has been developed based on three observers: Adaptive Disturbance Estimator (ADE), Nonlinear Disturbance Observer (NDO), and Quasi-Sliding Mode disturbance Observer (QSMO). Based on Lyapunov stability analysis, the ultimate boundedness of proposed controllers has been detailedly analyzed, assessed, and evaluated in the presence of unmatched perturbation. In the case of backstepping control based on ADE, the stability analysis has been conducted in the presence of stationary and time-varying disturbances to take into account the real load at the EV system. Moreover, a novel mathematical analysis has been conducted to determine the ultimate bound of disturbance estimation error in the case of backstepping based on QSMO. For the NDO-based backstepping controller, the design has been developed by proposing a new structure of nonlinear disturbance observer. The evaluation of proposed controllers has been verified with numerical simulations.
An anatomical study of thenar and hypothenar soft tissue thickness in men and women
Authors: Sgardelis Panagiotis , Giddins Grey
Published: October 2024

We hypothesized that reduced thenar soft tissue thickness may be a risk factor for distal radial fractures. We assessed MRI scans of the wrist in 78 adults. The 51 men had significantly higher palmar soft tissue thickness compared to the 27 women, even after adjusting for hand size.

Level of evidence: IV
Innate lymphoid cells and infectious diseases
Authors: Yuan Ting , Zhou Qianhui , Tian Yuqiu , Ou Yangjing , Long YunZhu , Tan YingZheng
Published: October 2024

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are the main resident lymphocytes that mostly reside in tissues owing to the lack of adaptive antigen receptors. These cells are involved in early anti-infective immunity, antitumour immunity, regulation of tissue inflammation, and maintenance of homeostasis in the internal environment of tissues and have been referred to as the “first armies stationed in the human body”. ILCs are widely distributed in the lungs, colon, lymph nodes, oral mucosa and even embryonic tissues. Due to the advantage of their distribution location, they are often among the first cells to come into contact with pathogens.Relevant studies have demonstrated that ILCs play an early role in the defence against a variety of pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and helminths, before they intervene in the adaptive immune system. ILCs can initiate a rapid, nonspecific response against pathogens prior to the initiation of an adaptive immune response and can generate a protective immune response against specific pathogens, secreting different effectors to play a role.There is growing evidence that ILCs play an important role in host control of infectious diseases. In this paper, we summarize and discuss the current known infectious diseases in which ILCs are involved and ILC contribution to the defence against infectious diseases. Further insights into the mechanisms of ILCs action in different infectious diseases will be useful in facilitating the development of therapeutic strategies for early control of infections.
Digital mental health intervention for schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorders: Protocol for a pragmatic feasibility study of Horyzons-Canada
Authors: Lal Shalini , Gleeson John F , D’Alfonso Simon , Lepage Martin , Joober Ridha , Lee Hajin , Abdel-Baki Amal , Lecomte Tania , Alvarez-Jimenez Mario
Published: October 2024

Background

Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders (SSPD) are among the most debilitating of all mental disorders. While the evidence for psychosocial interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy and peer support has significantly improved, access to these services remains limited. This paper describes a protocol for a pragmatic feasibility study of a digital mental health intervention (HoryzonsCa) that provides access to evidence-based psychosocial interventions, social networking, and clinical and peer support services through a secured, web-based platform for adults diagnosed with SSPD.

Objective

The objectives are: (1) Adapt and translate HoryzonsCa for implementation in English and French; (2) Develop an implementation and training strategy; (3) Assess the acceptability, safety, and demand of HoryzonsCa; (4) Assess clinical outcomes and perceived impacts; (5) Examine the experiences and process of adapting and implementing HoryzonsCa; (6) Explore the role of sociocultural and demographic factors on HoryzonsCa outcomes and implementation.

Methods

This feasibility study will use a single-group, pre-post, mixed-methods (QUAN–QUAL convergent) research design, with assessments at baseline and 12 weeks. The study aims to recruit 100 individuals (ages 18–50) diagnosed with SSPD from two healthcare settings in Canada. Data collection includes interview-based psychometric measures, self-reports, focus groups, and interviews with participants. The study will also collect qualitative data from moderators and the research team, and will be conducted entirely remotely.

Conclusions

This study has been prospectively registered and is underway. It will provide timely information on the feasibility and potential impacts of using digital mental health services for individuals with chronic mental health conditions.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN12561259; https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN12561259 (250/max 250 words)
Immobility, Older Adults and Adaptation to Tropical Cyclones: Insights from Coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Malak Md Abdul , Lina Nazia Khan , Quader Mohammad Abdul , Mahmood Riffat
Published: October 2024

This research explores the intricate relationship among immobility, adaptation and tropical cyclones (TCs) in older persons residing in coastal Bangladesh. Since cyclones commonly affect the Bay of Bengal, this study focuses on the special effects that these disasters have on the older population, specifically in the Gabura Union. The study documents the residents’ actual experiences and difficulties during cyclonic events through the use of qualitative research techniques like focus groups and in-depth interviews. The results show that a large number of elderly persons, even in the face of cyclone danger, choose to remain immobile as a coping strategy by staying in their comfortable surroundings. This inclination is linked to economic barriers that prevent them from migrating, intense emotional ties to their hometowns and dependence on local resources. Even after making the initial moves to seek safety, a large portion of the elderly return home because they find it difficult to leave their comfortable surroundings. This reluctance is sometimes worsened by health issues and financial strains brought on by past disasters. The study emphasises how important it is to develop adaptation plans that are especially tailored to the requirements of the elderly living in disaster-prone locations. It shows how the elderly adapt to climate hazards while keeping strong ties to their homeland, highlighting notable advancements in local infrastructure and early warning systems that increase safety and community resilience. However, the study also highlights the need for more inclusive disaster management strategies because of the marginalisation of older people and their financial limitations. The study illustrates the value of including age-sensitive techniques in climate adaptation plans by illuminating the experiences of older persons during TCs. The goal of the project is to provide policymakers and practitioners with information about how to foster environments that emphasise the well-being of the elderly in the face of growing threats associated with climate change. In the end, this research advances knowledge about how vulnerable groups deal with the effects of climate change by providing insights that can improve resilience in comparable situations around the world.
New Trends in Digital Marketing: Analysis of the Social Conversation on X.com About Metaverse and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Blanco-Ruiz Marian , Adá-Lameiras Alba , Atauri-Mezquida David
Published: October 2024

This study proposes a mixed methodology to analyze the social conversation around two digital marketing trends: the metaverse and artificial intelligence (AI). The aim of this research is to find out which actors are leading the social conversation around the metaverse and AI on X.com, in order to identify which types of companies or entrepreneurs are setting new trends in digital marketing and to what extent they reproduce gender biases. Methodologically, data mining was used to collect messages through its application programming interface and their subsequent processing. All posts tagged with the hashtags #Metaverse and #AI, along with their Spanish translations, were downloaded. The total sample comprised 123,580 posts from 45,622 different users. Subsequently, the content was analyzed using digital ethnography to establish who is leading the conversation and what are the emerging themes. The results show that the companies leading the conversation are digital projects or recently created start-ups; among the users with the most likes, retweets or replies, there are no large innovative companies. In the case of content creators, those who receive the most likes are characters created with AI that represent highly sexualized and objectified women.
Nomads of the Void: Unpacking the Enigmatic Lives and Survival of Syrian Dom Refugee Women in North Lebanon
Authors: Diab Jasmin Lilian , Saban Asli
Published: October 2024

Executive Summary

This article investigates the challenges faced by the Syrian Dom community in Lebanon, with a particular focus on the gender-specific adversities encountered by women. Historically nomadic, the Dom have largely settled in the MENA region, though recent conflicts in Syria have displaced many to Lebanon, where they live in precarious conditions alongside other refugees. Through a mixed-methods approach, this research delves into the multiple layers of discrimination experienced by Dom women, exacerbated by their ethnic background, gender, and legal status. Such factors combine to place Dom women in highly vulnerable positions, perpetuating their marginalization and complicating their integration into Lebanese society. By focusing on vulnerabilities, forced labor, sexualization, protection, and intimate-partner and familial dynamics, this paper offers insights into how systemic inequalities intersect with identity formation in a less-explored displacement context within Lebanon. The study concludes with recommendations for targeted interventions aimed at empowering these women, improving their access to necessary services, and facilitating their social inclusion.
Building a Stronger Case for Independent Reading at School
Authors: Bus Adriana G. , Shang Yi , Roskos Kathleen
Published: October 2024

The effectiveness of incorporating independent reading practice in schools has long been a subject of uncertainty. To shed light on this ongoing debate, this meta-analysis seeks to investigate the impact of in-school independent reading on three crucial measures—attitudes toward reading, word recognition, and comprehension—focusing on K–10 students. The analysis encompasses (quasi-)experimental studies conducted between 1970 and 2020, examining a total of 7,493 students across 47 studies. Because most studies contain more than one outcome measure or effect size, we used a meta-analytic model with a three-level structure. The findings reveal a statistically significant overall effect size (Hedges’ g = .08). Specifically, the effect sizes are more pronounced when considering word recognition (i.e., word attack, word identification, decoding, and fluency; Hedges’ g = .21) and students’ reading attitude (Hedges’ g = .18) as outcome measures. However, the effect size for comprehension—the most commonly assessed outcome measure—was approximately zero (Hedges’ g = −.014).
The DEI Penalty: The Effects of University Diversity Efforts on Perceptions of Quality and Status Threat
Authors: Kmec Julie A. , Horne Christine
Published: October 2024

This article investigates perceptions of university quality and status threat among White and non-White Democrats and Republicans in response to a curriculum emphasizing diversity. We hypothesize that Americans in general will perceive a university with a diversity-focused curriculum as low quality and that White Americans (particularly Republicans) will perceive the university as posing a status threat. We test our hypotheses with data from a survey experiment of roughly 700 Americans. White Republicans rated a university with a diversity-focused curriculum as low quality; contrary to expectations, White Democrats did not. We find partial support for our predictions regarding status threat, with Republicans indicating more status threat than Democrats. Participants, regardless of political affiliation or race, generally opposed government regulation of university curricula. Findings demonstrate a complex interplay between party affiliation, race, and perceptions of university quality, offering insight for institutions aiming to navigate the challenging environment of diversity-focused education.
Effectiveness of the German pay transparency law and the gender pay gap
Authors: Vaccaro Giannina , Wydra-Somaggio Gabriele , Homrighausen Pia
Published: October 2024

Germany, like many other countries, implemented a new pay transparency law to reduce the gender pay gap in 2017. The German Pay Transparency Law (ETG) targets mainly employers to reveal their wage structure, and employees are entitled to claim fair wages. This paper investigates the effectiveness of this policy via comprehensive data that link detailed information from all full-time employees in a representative sample of German establishments. Using a difference-in-discontinuity (diff-in-disc) at the two relevant establishment thresholds (approximately 200 employees and approximately 500 employees) of the law, we study changes in the gender pay gap and employment as well as its interaction with existing employee organizations to reduce unequal pay. The short-term results show that the ETG was only effective in reducing the raw gender wage gap in the presence of works councils and collective bargaining agreements for medium-sized firms (between 200 and 499 employees). In the absence of these institutions, establishments without works councils and collective bargaining agreements increased their unexplained gender wage gap after the introduction of the ETG. These results emphasize the importance of the presence of works councils and collective bargaining agreements in advancing equal pay policies.

JEL classification: D22, J16, J21, J31, J71
Analysing the flow of wet iron ore in an industrial transfer chute using discrete element method
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Jha Prashant Kumar , Kishore Raj , Singh Ranjeet Kumar , Subrahmanyam T.V.S. , Chaurasiya S.K. , Mangipudi Kodanda Ram , Sahu Kisor Kumar
Published: October 2024

Two billion tons of iron ore is mined globally/year, still, a comprehensive protocol for obtaining discrete element method parameters is missing. A slight improvement in operational difficulties can translate into significant financial benefits. A direct measurement of discrete element method interaction parameters, such as sliding and rolling friction and cohesion energy between a pair of particles, is very difficult. Therefore, a bulk calibration approach is used to obtain discrete element method parameters that involve performing laboratory scale tests (angle of repose, wall friction angle, etc.), which are subsequently reproduced in the discrete element method model and adjusted through a novel, sequentially coupled central composite experimental design. Results are demonstrated through simulations of 14.5 wt-% moisture-containing iron ore (representing the most difficult scenario) flow through an industrially operational transfer chute. Four different liner materials were investigated. Interestingly, cohesion and frictional forces are found to be flow-determining rather than inertial forces, and the nature of the liner plays the most significant role.
ORGANOMETALLIC SURFACE-TREATMENT OF PBZT AND PBO ORDERED POLYMER FILMS FOR IMPROVED ADHESION
Authors: Kovar R. F.
Published: October 2024

Poly(bisbenzothiazole) and poly(bisbenzoxazole), (PBZT and PBO, respectively) when used to make ordered polymer films, enable the fabrication of strong, lightweight, thinwalled structures without the limitations of fiber- reinforced composite structures. However, the bonding of these films to adhesive resins is weak due to the chemical inertness of their surfaces.

Foster-Miller applied an organometallic surface-treatment (OST) to heat- treated PBZT and PBO films for the purpose of attaching polar carboxylic acid groups that would increase interfacial interaction in ordered polymer film- based composites. Poly(etheretherKetone) (PEEK), thermoplastic and epoxy thermoset adhesive resins were evaluated.

OST significantly increased the wettability of PBZT and PBO film surfaces toward water and epoxy resin in comparison to untreated films. PBZT film/PEEK adhesive peel strength increased more than fivefold, with samples exhibiting cohesive failure. However, the absolute value for peel strength was low, a consequence of low interlaminar shear strength within the films themselves.
LIFE CYCLE ANALYSIS OF NESTABLE PLASTIC AND WOOD PALLETS
Authors: Singh S. Paul , Walker Ralph
Published: October 2024

This study performed a life cycle analysis on eight different types of nestable pallets. The pallets were made from wood and plastic. The performance of the pallets was compared based on number of trips without damage, cost, weight, and environmental considerations. A pallet performance coefficient was developed to compare the different pallet types. The results showed that the twin sheet thermo-formed HDPE plastic pallets showed the best performance followed by the structural foam HDPE pallets. The presswood pallets showed the poorest performance.
FACTORS AFFECTING ANTIBLOCK PERFORMANCE OF ETHYLENE VINYL ACETATE COPOLYMERS
Authors: Botros Maged G.
Published: October 2024

The antiblock performance of fatty amides was investigated in ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers (VA = 28 wt% and MI = 400 g/10 minutes) and in low density polyethylene (LDPE). This investigation was done in an attempt to optimize the conditions for bulk shipments of these polymers in warm weather. Factors affecting the antiblock characteristics such as base resin, amide type, amide concentration, time and temperature were studied. Several analytical techniques were used including ATR-FTIR (both isothermal and non-isothermal in-situ measurements), HPLC, coefficient of friction (COF), stick temperature and dielectric constant measurement. The results indicate that the main mechanisms controlling amide antiblock performance are its ability to migrate to the polymer surface and its incompatibility with the polymer matrix.
METHOD FOR MEASURING THE IMPACT STRENGTH OF HEAVY-GAUGE FILMS
Authors: Krohn J. V. , Jordy D. W.
Published: October 2024

Impact strength of polyethylene films has traditionally been measured using a falling dart testing procedure. With the falling dart method, various weights are added to a dart in order to puncture a film specimen. This procedure is limited by the maximum weight that can be added to the dart, restricting the usefulness of this test method for measuring the impact strength of heavy-gauge films.

Instrumented impact testing (IIT) is routinely used (ASTM D-3763) to measure the impact strength of molded plastic parts. By comparing results of this method with traditional falling dart tests over a range of film thicknesses it was concluded that this method was a suitable measurement technique for heavy-gauge films.
A decade of dinoflagellate genomics illuminating an enigmatic eukaryote cell
Authors: Lin Senjie
Published: October 2024

Dinoflagellates are a remarkable group of protists, not only for their association with harmful algal blooms and coral reefs but also for their numerous characteristics deviating from the rules of eukaryotic biology. Genome research on dinoflagellates has lagged due to their immense genome sizes in most species (~ 1-250 Gbp). Nevertheless, the last decade marked a fruitful era of dinoflagellate genomics, with 27 genomes sequenced and many insights attained. This review aims to synthesize information from these genomes, along with other omic data, to reflect on where we are now in understanding dinoflagellates and where we are heading in the future. The most notable insights from the decade-long genomics work include: (1) dinoflagellate genomes have been expanded in multiple times independently, probably by a combination of rampant retroposition, accumulation of repetitive DNA, and genome duplication; (2) Symbiodiniacean genomes are highly divergent, but share about 3,445 core unigenes concentrated in 219 KEGG pathways; (3) Most dinoflagellate genes are encoded unidirectionally and are not intron-poor; (4) The dinoflagellate nucleus has undergone extreme evolutionary changes, including complete or nearly complete loss of nucleosome and histone H1, and acquisition of dinoflagellate viral nuclear protein (DVNP); (5) Major basic nuclear protein (MBNP), histone-like protein (HLP), and bacterial HU-like protein (HCc) belong to the same protein family, and MBNP can be the unifying name; (6) Dinoflagellate gene expression is regulated by poorly understood mechanisms, but microRNA and other epigenetic mechanisms are likely important; (7) Over 50% of dinoflagellate genes are “dark” and their functions remain to be deciphered using functional genetics; (8) Initial insights into the genomic basis of parasitism and mutualism have emerged. The review then highlights functionally unique and interesting genes. Future research needs to obtain a finished genome, tackle large genomes, characterize the unknown genes, and develop a quantitative molecular ecological model for addressing ecological questions.
Predictors of change in CD4 cell count over time for HIV/AIDS patients on ART follow-up in northern Ethiopia: a retrospective longitudinal study
Authors: Gebrerufael Gebru Gebremeskel , Asfaw Zeytu Gashaw
Published: October 2024

Background

HIV has an effect on lowering CD4 cell count, which lowers the ability to resist contamination. For patients on ART in areas with limited resources, the CD4 cell count assessment is crucial for determining treatment responses and therapeutic decisions. The volatility of CD4 counts following the introduction of ART over time is still largely uncharacterized, and there are few fresh datasets on CD4 cell count progressions. The goal of this study was to identify the key factors that change over time in CD4 cells for HIV/AIDS patients receiving ART follow-up in northern Ethiopia.

Methods

A total of 216 HIV/AIDS patients who initiated ART in the Mekelle General Hospital between 2013 and 2016 were involved using systematic random selection techniques. An examination of exploratory data was used to describe the individual profiles of HIV patients. A multivariable random intercept and slope linear mixed regression analysis regarded predictor variables to be statistically significant if their p-value was less than 0.05.

Results

The random intercept and slope linear mixed model result indicated that there were statistically significant predictors of baseline CD4 cell count (β = 0.0125, P-value = 0.001*) and bedridden functional status (β = -2.459, p = 0.02*) on the change of CD4 cell count over time in HIV/AIDS patients at the 5% significance level.

Conclusions

Changes in CD4 counts were influenced by the baseline CD4 cell count and the functional status of being bedridden. Because their CD4 cell counts were lower at baseline and they had a functional status of bedridden, the majority of HIV/AIDS patients on ART had substantial predictors on the change of CD4 cell count over time.

So, public health service providers should give exceptional guidance and attention is also necessary for those patients who have lower baseline CD4 cell count and bedridden functional status.
Vocal usage learning and vocal comprehension learning in harbor seals
Authors: Duengen Diandra , Jadoul Yannick , Ravignani Andrea
Published: October 2024

Background

Which mammals show vocal learning abilities, e.g., can learn new sounds, or learn to use sounds in new contexts? Vocal usage and comprehension learning are submodules of vocal learning. Specifically, vocal usage learning is the ability to learn to use a vocalization in a new context; vocal comprehension learning is the ability to comprehend a vocalization in a new context. Among mammals, harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are good candidates to investigate vocal learning. Here, we test whether harbor seals are capable of vocal usage and comprehension learning.

Results

We trained two harbor seals to (i) switch contexts from a visual to an auditory cue. In particular, the seals first produced two vocalization types in response to two hand signs; they then transitioned to producing these two vocalization types upon the presentation of two distinct sets of playbacks of their own vocalizations. We then (ii) exposed the seals to a combination of trained and novel vocalization stimuli. In a final experiment, (iii) we broadcasted only novel vocalizations of the two vocalization types to test whether seals could generalize from the trained set of stimuli to only novel items of a given vocal category. Both seals learned all tasks and took ≤ 16 sessions to succeed across all experiments. In particular, the seals showed contextual learning through switching the context from former visual to novel auditory cues, vocal matching and generalization. Finally, by responding to the played-back vocalizations with distinct vocalizations, the animals showed vocal comprehension learning.

Conclusions

It has been suggested that harbor seals are vocal learners; however, to date, these observations had not been confirmed in controlled experiments. Here, through three experiments, we could show that harbor seals are capable of both vocal usage and comprehension learning.
Assessing biochar, clinoptilolite zeolite and zeo-char loaded nano-nitrogen for boosting growth performance and biochemical ingredients of peace lily (Spathiphyllum Wallisii) plant under water shortage
Authors: Ibrahim Hend Mohammad Saad , Mahmoud Abdel Wahab M. , Soliman Marwa Mohamed , Heider Shaimaa Mahmoud , Abdel Mottaleb Shady
Published: October 2024

Background

Peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii Regel) is an ornamental indoor plant with promising cut flower market, as well as antiviral, pharmacological and ecological potentials. Water deficiency can have sound effects on the growth performance and aesthetic quality of such plant. The aim of this study was to investigate the consequences of zeolite, biochar, and zeo-char loaded nano-nitrogen application on the growth performance and biochemical components of peace lily under water shortage conditions. An experiment was conducted over two consecutive seasons (2021–2022) at the experimental nursery of Ornamental Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. Soil amendments; zeolite, biochar, and zeo-char loaded nano-nitrogen were prepared and applied to soil before cultivation.

Results

Our results revealed that the new combination treatment (zeo-char loaded nano-N) had an exceeding significant effect on most of the studied parameters. Vegetative traits such as plant height (35.7 and 35.9%), leaf number per plant (73.3 and 52.6%), leaf area (40.2 and 36.4%), stem diameter (28.7 and 27.1%), root number (100 and 43.5%) and length (105.7 and 101.9%) per plant, and fresh weight of leaves (23.2 and 21.6%) were significantly higher than control (commercially recommended dose of NPK) with the application of zeo-char loaded nano-N during the two growing seasons, respectively. Similar significant increments were obtained for some macro- (N, P, K, Mg, Ca) and micro- (Fe, Zn, Mn) elements with the same treatment relative to control. Chlorophyll (18.4%) and total carotenoids (82.9 and 32.6%), total carbohydrates (53.3 and 37.4%), phenolics (54.4 and 86.9%), flavonoids (31.7% and 41.8%) and tannins (69.2 and 50%), in addition to the phytohormone gibberellic acid (GA3) followed the same trend with the application of zeo-char loaded nano-N, increasing significantly over control. Leaf histological parameters and anatomical structure were enhanced with the new combination treatment in comparison with control. Antioxidant enzymes (catalase and peroxidase), proline and abscisic acid (ABA) exhibited significant declines with zeo-char loaded nano-N treatment relative to control.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that incorporating soil amendments with nano- nutrients could provide a promising approach towards improving growth performance and quality of ornamental, medicinal and aromatic species under water deficiency conditions.
Twin pregnancy and postpartum haemorrhage: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abdulsalam Fatma A. M. , Bourdakos Natalie E. , Burns James W. F. , Zervides Zoe Y. , Yap Nathanael Q. E. , Adra Maamoun , Nakanishi Hayato , Than Christian A. , Chervenak Francis A. , Arulkumaran Sir Sabaratnam
Published: October 2024

Background

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) continues to stand as the primary cause of maternal morbidity and mortality post-delivery, with twin pregnancies carrying a heightened risk of PPH compared to singleton deliveries.

Objectives

To investigate the incidence of primary PPH among twin pregnancies and report on maternal and peripartum characteristics within this population.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using data from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search aimed to identify studies concerning mothers with twin pregnancies and postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) from the inception of each respective database to June 8th, 2023. Pooled means and proportions were analyzed using the generic inverse variance method. This review was registered prospectively with PROSPERO (CRD42023427192).

Results

A total of 21 studies involving 23,330 twin pregnant patients were included. Incidence of PPH for vaginal delivery and Caesarean delivery (CS) was found to be 10.9% (95% CI: -0.017, 0.235, I2 = 96%) and 27.0% (95% CI: 0.180, 0.359, I2 = 99%) respectively. In vitro fertilization (IVF) was the most common conception method at 62.0% (95% CI: 0.448, 0.792, I2 = 100%) with 81.1% (95% CI: 0.708, 0.915, I2 = 100%) of twins being dichorionic diamniotic.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrated more than one in ten vaginal deliveries and over one in four cesarean sections result in PPH for twin pregnancies. IVF is the predominant method of conception in this patient group and seems to contribute to subsequent PPH risk in specific mothers. While preliminary, these findings underscore the necessity for further well-designed and high-quality studies to validate these results.
A study protocol of the effectiveness of the Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program (ASSIP) for recent suicide attempters: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lindström Sara , Ehnvall Anna , Bergqvist Erik , Waern Margda , Dahlin Marie , Westrin Åsa
Published: October 2024

Background

Given the limited research focusing on psychotherapeutic interventions for suicide attempters, it is noteworthy that the Attempted Suicide Short Intervention Program (ASSIP) has demonstrated promising results in previous studies. In this investigation, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of ASSIP across diverse healthcare settings, outlining the study design and planned evaluation.

Methods

Using a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) design with four assessment points (baseline, 3, 12- and 24-month follow-up), we aim to assess the effect of the 3-session psychotherapeutic intervention and hereafter brief contact via structured letters during 2 years in a clinical sample of recent suicide attempters (suicide attempts within three months before inclusion). Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups; treatment as usual plus ASSIP or the control condition, treatment as usual. Assessments include measures of suicidal intent, coping, symptoms of depression, quality of life, self-stigma, and sick leave. The primary outcome is suicide attempt(s) within 3, 12, and 24 months and the secondary outcome is suicidal ideation within the same time frames after study inclusion.

Discussion

Findings from this study will provide novel insights regarding the effects of ASSIP on not only subsequent suicidal behavior but also other outcomes including self-stigma, quality of life, social network, sick leave, and symptoms of depression.

Trial registration

The trial was registered at ClinicalTrial.gov NCT04746261 on 2020-10-15.
Responding to fluctuations in public and community trust and health seeking behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study of national decision-makers’ perspectives in Guinea and Sierra Leone
Authors: Baldé Habibata , Geurts Brogan , Fischer Hanna-Tina , Menelik-Obbarius Sara , Kaba Ibrahima , Merhi Vitali , Stein Karoline , Diaconu Viorela , Bahr Thurid , Weishaar Heide , Delamou Alexandre , Mbawah Abdul Karim , El-Bcheraoui Charbel
Published: October 2024

Background

The level of trust in health systems is often in flux during public health emergencies and presents challenges in providing adequate health services and preventing the spread of disease. Experiences during previous epidemics has shown that lack of trust can impact the continuity of essential health services and response efforts. Guinea and Sierra Leone were greatly challenged by a lack of trust in the system during the Ebola epidemic. We thus sought to investigate what was perceived to influence public and community trust in the health system during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what strategies were employed by national level stakeholders in order to maintain or restore trust in the health system in Guinea and Sierra Leone.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted through a document review and key informant interviews with actors involved in COVID-19 and/or in malaria control efforts in Guinea and Sierra Leone. Key informants were selected based on their role and level of engagement in the national level response. Thirty Six semi-structured interviews (16 in Guinea, 20 in Sierra Leone) were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using an inductive and deductive framework approach to thematic analysis.

Results

Key informants described three overarching themes related to changes in trust and health seeking behavior due to COVID-19: (1) reignited fear and uncertainty among the population, (2) adaptations to sensitization and community engagement efforts, and (3) building on the legacy of Ebola as a continuous process. Communication, community engagement, and on-going support to health workers were reiterated as crucial factors for maintaining trust in the health system.

Conclusion

Lessons from the Ebola epidemic enabled response actors to consider maintaining and rebuilding trust as a core aim of the pandemic response which helped to ensure continuity of care and mitigate secondary impacts of the pandemic. Monitoring and maintaining trust in health systems is a key consideration for health systems resilience during public health emergencies.
Vertical root fracture detection with cone-beam computed tomography in Biodentine™ filled teeth
Authors: Van Acker Jakob W. G. , Yvergneaux Charlotte , Jacquet Wolfgang , Dierens Melissa , Hommez Geert , Van Acker Joris , Boone Matthieu , Rajasekharan Sivaprakash , Martens Luc C.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of detecting vertical root fractures in Biodentine™-filled teeth using the Promax 3Dmax cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) unit compared to periapical radiographs. It tested hypotheses regarding CBCT’s diagnostic superiority in non-root-filled and Biodentine™-root-filled maxillary central incisors and assessed the impact of smaller field of view and lower intensity settings on detection accuracy.

Materials and methods

Extracted maxillary incisors were divided into groups based on fracture status and root filling material, then placed in a Thiel-embalmed skull to simulate clinical conditions. The teeth were imaged using periapical radiographs and the CBCT unit under different settings. Fracture thickness was measured with microcomputed tomography for accuracy benchmarking. Multiple observers assessed the images, and statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate diagnostic performance.

Results

Intra-rater reliabilities of consensus scores ranged from good to very good. Specificities were generally higher than sensitivities across all imaging modalities, but sensitivities remained constantly low. None of the Area Under the Curve scores exceeded 0.6, indicating poor overall accuracy for all imaging modalities. Paired comparisons of the area differences under Receiver Operator Characteristic curves revealed no significant differences between the CBCT and periapical radiograph techniques for detecting vertical root fractures in either Biodentine™-filled or non-root-filled teeth.

Conclusions

There was no significant accuracy improvement of the current CBCT device (Promax 3Dmax, Planmeca, Finland) over periapical radiographs in detecting small vertical root fractures in both non-root-filled and Biodentine™-root-filled maxillary central incisors. A smaller field of view with lower intensity did not enhance detection accuracy. These results highlight the challenges in accurately detecting small VRFs, emphasizing the need for further research and technological advancements in this domain.
Postoperative challenges addressed through nursing care of patients receiving lower extremity tumor prosthesis
Authors: Golemac Marina , Yilmaz Müjgan , Petersen Michael Mørk
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients with primary Bone Sarcoma and Giant Cell Tumors in the lower extremities often require major surgery involving tumor prostheses. The postoperative course for this patient group can be complex and influenced by various factors and challenges that demand careful nursing care. This study aims to identify challenges related to the nursing care of individuals with primary bone tumors following surgery for tumor prostheses in the lower extremities.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 15 patients treated at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark, between November 5. 2016, and April 1. 2020 was conducted by medical record review, focusing on challenges related to postoperative nursing care. All patients with the surgery code “Bone Excision” were identified within the surgery booking system and screened for eligibility.

Results

Patients experienced postoperative challenges such as severe pain, prolonged time to mobilization (mean: 4 days), and defecation (mean: 5 days). The mean length of stay at the Rigshospitalet was 13 days. Furthermore, eleven patients (73%) reported disrupted sleep and nausea.

Conclusion

Patients undergoing tumor prosthesis surgery in the lower extremities face considerable postoperative challenges that contribute to a prolonged hospital stay. These challenges, including severe pain, delayed mobilization, and gastrointestinal issues, significantly impact recovery. The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted nursing interventions to address these issues effectively. Enhanced pain management protocols, early mobilization strategies, and comprehensive postoperative care plans are essential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the length of hospital stays. Addressing these challenges through dedicated nursing care is crucial for optimizing the recovery process for patients receiving lower extremity tumor prostheses.
Pathways to social integration among homeless-experienced adults with serious mental illness: a qualitative perspective
Authors: Chinchilla Melissa , Lulla Aaron , Agans Dylan , Chassman Stephanie , Gabrielian Sonya E. , Young Alexander S.
Published: October 2024

Background

Social integration (i.e., reciprocal interactions with peers and community members) is a notable challenge for many homeless-experienced adults with serious mental illness (SMI). In this study, we examine a range of housing services offered to homeless-experienced adults with SMI and identify the impacts of supportive services on participants’ social integration outcomes, with the goal of improving services in transitional and permanent housing settings for homeless-experienced adults with SMI.

Methods

Through semi-structured interviews with homeless-experienced adults with SMI (n = 30), we examine the impacts of housing and service settings on participants’ social integration. Participants received services in a variety of housing settings, including transitional housing with congregate/shared living (n = 10), transitional housing with individual quarters (n = 10), and permanent supportive housing (n = 10).

Results

Participants expressed caution in developing social relationships, as these could pose barriers to recovery goals (e.g., substance use recovery). For many, social integration was secondary to mental and physical health and/or housing stability goals. Individual quarters gave individuals a place of respite and a sense of control regarding when and with whom they socialized. Meeting recovery goals was strongly related to connecting to and receiving a range of supportive services; interviews suggest that proximity to services was critical for engagement in these resources.

Conclusions

Programs serving homeless experienced adults with SMI should seek to understand how individuals conceptualize social integration, and how social relationships can either support or hinder participants’ recovery journey.
STAT3 blockade ameliorates LPS-induced kidney injury through macrophage-driven inflammation
Authors: Lee Song-Hee , Kim Kyu Hong , Lee Seong Min , Park Seong Joon , Lee Sunhwa , Cha Ran-Hui , Lee Jae Wook , Kim Dong Ki , Kim Yon Su , Ye Sang-Kyu , Yang Seung Hee
Published: October 2024

Background

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a multifaceted transcription factor, modulates host immune responses by activating cellular response to signaling ligands. STAT3 has a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of kidney injury by counterbalancing resident macrophage phenotypes under inflammation conditions. However, STAT3’s role in acute kidney injury (AKI), particularly in macrophage migration, and in chronic kidney disease (CKD) through fibrosis development, remains unclear.

Methods

Stattic (a JAK2/STAT3 inhibitor, 5 mg/kg or 10 mg/kg) was administered to evaluate the therapeutic effect on LPS-induced AKI (L-AKI) and LPS-induced CKD (L-CKD), with animals sacrificed 6–24 h and 14 days post-LPS induction, respectively. The immune mechanisms of STAT3 blockade were determined by comparing the macrophage phenotypes and correlated with renal function parameters. Also, the transcriptomic analysis was used to confirm the anti-inflammatory effect of L-AKI, and the anti-fibrotic role was further evaluated in the L-CKD model.

Results

In the L-AKI model, sequential increases in BUN and blood creatinine levels were time-dependent, with a marked elevation of 0–6 h after LPS injection. Notably, two newly identified macrophage subpopulations (CD11bhighF4/80low and CD11blowF4/80high), exhibited population changes, with an increase in the CD11bhighF4/80low population and a decrease in the CD11blowF4/80high macrophages. Corresponding to the FACS results, the tubular injury score, NGAL, F4/80, and p-STAT3 expression in the tubular regions were elevated. STAT3 inhibitor injection in L-AKI and L-CKD mice reduced renal injury and fibrosis. M2-type subpopulation with CD206 in CD11blowF4/80high population increased in the Stattic-treated group compared with that in the LPS-alone group in the L-AKI model. Additionally, STAT3 inhibitor reduced inflammation driven by LPS-stimulated macrophages and epithelial cells injury in the co-culture system. Transcriptomic profiling identified 3 common genes in the JAK-STAT, TLR, and TNF signaling pathways and 11 common genes in the LPS with macrophage response. The PI3K-AKT (IL-6, Akt3, and Pik3r1) and JAK-STAT pathways were determined as potential Stattic targets. Further confirmation through mRNA and protein expressions analyses showed that Stattic treatment reduced inflammation in the L-AKI and fibrosis in the L-CKD mice.

Conclusions

STAT3 blockade effectively mitigated inflammation by retrieving the CD11blowF4/80high population, further emphasizing the role of STAT3-associated macrophage-driven inflammation in kidney injury.