bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Active rejection or passive indifference? Mixed-methods evidence on national (dis)identification
Authors: Gligorić Vukašin , Obradović Sandra
Published: February 2024

Much of the research on national identity investigates its negative aspects through the form of nationalism. However, what happens at the opposite end of the spectrum, when someone does not glorify the national ingroup but actively rejects it? Across two studies conducted in Serbia ( Ns = 349 and 554), we investigated national identification and disidentification, their antecedents, and consequences. We found no evidence to distinguish between (low) national identification and disidentification. Regarding antecedents of national identification, we found that self-stereotypes (positive and lack of negative) were the most important contributors, followed by right-wing social ideology. Regarding consequences, low national identifiers endorsed wider identities (e.g., European, world citizen) and had higher intentions to migrate. Most strikingly, low identifiers blatantly dehumanized ingroup members, even more so than high identifiers dehumanized (high-status) outgroups. In analyzing qualitative data, we contextualized the quantitative findings by showing that low identification is mainly articulated as a mismatch between self and ingroup prototype, consequently leading to dehumanization. We conclude that low national identification can have detrimental effects, but that more research in the non-Western context is necessary to properly understand this phenomenon.
Cold–formed thin–walled steel walls filled with phosphogypsum subjected to lateral cyclic loading: testing and analysis
Authors: Hu Song , Zhou Li , Huang Yong
Published: February 2024

In order to improve the shear capacity and seismic performance of cold–formed thin–walled steel (CFS) walls, in this research, a novel CFS wall filled with phosphogypsum (PG) was developed. Taking PG filling area and covering the wall with sheathing as design parameters, four full–scale test specimens were designed and constructed. Failure mode and seismic performance indexes of each specimen were investigated by performing cyclic loading tests and the effect of PG filler on CFS wall seismic performance was evaluated. Research results showed that PG filler significantly improved the seismic performance and shear capacity of CFS walls. Importantly, the proposed wall presented a remarkable dual–mechanism of lateral force resistance, which was provided by PG filler and wall sheathings, respectively. In addition, analytical models were developed for the calculation of the shear capacity and lateral stiffness of the proposed walls, which presented high prediction accuracy.
Thermal comfort evaluation of natural convective-radiant evaporator for air conditioning
Authors: Zhang Huan , Zhao Rui , Tao Ming , Zheng Wandong
Published: February 2024

The radiant systems come to the fore due to energy saving potential and good integration. The effect of different forms of cold surfaces on human thermal comfort is focused on its application. A novel natural convection-radiant evaporator for heat pumps was developed and its influence on thermal comfort was investigated. A numerical model of the chamber with the evaporator was established and verified with experimental results. Thermal comfort experiments were conducted in a climate chamber and the influence of its asymmetric and uneven cold radiation on the thermal comfort was investigated. Due to the limitation of PMV in uneven radiation situations, the revised predicted mean vote (RPMV) was proposed to assess the thermal comfort in asymmetric and uneven radiation environments based on experimental results. Based on RPMV, the influence of the surface area and temperature of the evaporator on thermal comfort was numerically analyzed. The results indicate that indoor air temperature and relative humidity, RPMV increase with the increase of plate temperature, but decrease with an increase in plate area. The most favourable indoor thermal comfort environment was obtained at an indoor air temperature of 28°C and relative humidity of 50%, which is 2°C higher than traditional air conditioning system.
An effective decision-making method for building retrofit measures strategy
Authors: Rahmouni Sofiane , Si Mohammed Antar
Published: February 2024

The energy efficiency and sustainability of existing buildings have become a critical concern in Algeria’s efforts to reduce energy consumption and mitigate environmental and economic impacts. To address this challenge, a systematic and effective decision-making method is required to select optimal building retrofit measures in alignment with Algeria’s 2030 energy strategy. In this study, we propose an innovative approach based on the Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP), a widely used multi-criteria decision-making method, to evaluate and prioritize different retrofit measures. The FAHP allows decision-makers to have a comprehensive framework for making informed choices by incorporating independently proposed economic, environmental and technical criteria. The results demonstrate the high significance of retrofit measures that enhance thermal insulation, with double glazing and roof insulation emerging as top priorities. Sensitivity analyses confirm the stability and robustness of the decision-making process. This approach offers valuable insights for policymakers and building professionals seeking to implement sustainable and energy-efficient retrofitting strategies in Algeria’s construction sector. By aligning with the country’s energy goals, this decision-making method contributes to achieving a more sustainable and environmentally responsible built environment.
Platform visibility and the making of an issue: Vernaculars of hereditary cancer on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter
Authors: Vicari Stefania , Ditchfield Hannah
Published: February 2024

We investigate the relationship between platform visibility and meaning making. Drawing on a quanti-quali investigation of hashtag practices in a cross-platform dataset, we explore how hereditary cancer is constructed, as an issue, on social media. Our findings provide strong evidence of significant variations across Instagram, TikTok and Twitter, with hashtag practices on these platforms tapping into platform-specific understandings of hereditary cancer: a pink ribbon issue on Instagram, the opportunity for non-normative exposures of bodies, pain and acceptance on TikTok and a scientific matter on Twitter. Platforms do not dictate choice, but their encounter with user interpretations, given similar material constraints (hashtag technology), lead to very different affordances. These affordances shape practices and, ultimately, meaning making. While raising concerns on the impact platform visibility might have on experiences and understandings of hereditary cancer, our work suggests broader implications for how we imagine and respond to the issues we care about.
The effect of department leadership on teacher professional learning in China: A multilevel moderated mediation model
Authors: Liu Shengnan , Hallinger Philip
Published: February 2024

There is growing interest in the topic of middle-level leadership, including department and subject leaders. However, published research has largely failed to consider the underlying mechanisms through which middle-level leaders influence teacher professional learning. This study investigated how and under what conditions department leadership is beneficial to teacher professional learning. This research examined “school collectivism” as a boundary condition that was hypothesized to influence the effects of departmental leadership on teacher resilience and professional learning. Survey data on these constructs were collected among 3219 teachers in 121 primary and middle schools located in mainland China. Multilevel moderated mediation modeling was employed to assess the simultaneous effects of conditional and mediating factors on teacher engagement in professional learning. The results revealed that department leadership could influence teacher resilience which also mediated the relationship between department leadership and teacher professional learning. This indirect effect of department leadership on teacher professional learning was strengthened when school collectivism was reinforced. The findings add to the current literature first by empirically verifying the impact of middle-level leaders on teachers, as well as by highlighting school-level conditions that can shape the exercise of middle-level leadership.
Fairness, Hierarchy, and Moral Rationalization, or What's Wrong With Paradise Lost?
Authors: Hogan Patrick Colm
Published: February 2024

Literature and Moral Feeling argued that ethics is best understood as a constraint on egocentric self-interest. That constraint is specified variously by groups or individuals who set parameters differently within common ethical principles, and who use a range of emotion-guided narrative genres to imagine and evaluate possible actions. Though it covers many ethical concerns (collectively termed “morality”), this account leaves out fairness (alternatively, justice). The following essay seeks to make up for that deficit. Framing its analysis by reference to a well-known problem in Milton's Paradise Lost, it distinguishes two systems of ethical response organized around first- and third-person perspectives. Like the first-person concerns of morality, third person concerns of justice are specified by setting parameters within common principles. In treating these principles and parameters, the essay articulates cognitive and affective components of third-person ethical evaluation. These, then, help to resolve the problem with Milton's poem. That resolution, in turn, suggests further complications in the account of ethical evaluation.
Australian early childhood educators’ perspectives on digital teaching of geometry: The pedagogical enablers and barriers
Authors: Zhao Xuenan , Roberts Steven
Published: February 2024

Although studies have investigated the enablers and barriers of digital teaching and learning of STEM, the integration of digital technologies into teaching geometry – one of the main mathematical concepts, is frequently ignored and does not garner much scholarly attention. To fill this specific gap, this small-scale qualitative study explored the perspectives of four early childhood educators who have successful experience in using digital technologies in the teaching and learning of geometry with preschool-age children. The analysis of data uncovered early childhood educators’ effective pedagogical practices of digital geometry teaching while discussing the pedagogical benefits and challenges of embedding digital educational materials in geometric teaching. The findings of this research can particularly contribute to a qualitative lens of practically utilising digital technologies in engaging children in explorative geometric learning, which thereby provides valuable information for early childhood stakeholders to take into consideration in digital pedagogies of geometry education.
Hybrid Closed-Loop Versus Manual Insulin Delivery in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes: A Post Hoc Analysis Using the Glycemia Risk Index
Authors: Lee Melissa H. , Vogrin Sara , Jones Timothy W. , O’Neal David N.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Glycemia risk index (GRI) is a novel composite metric assessing overall glycemic risk, accounting for both hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and weighted toward extremes. Data assessing GRI as an outcome measure in closed-loop studies and its relation with conventional key continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) metrics are limited.

Methods:

A post hoc analysis was performed to evaluate the sensitivity of GRI in assessing glycemic quality in adults with type 1 diabetes randomized to 26 weeks hybrid closed-loop (HCL) or manual insulin delivery (control). The primary outcome was GRI comparing HCL with control. Comparisons were made with changes in other CGM metrics including time in range (TIR), time above range (TAR), time below range (TBR), and glycemic variability (standard deviation [SD] and coefficient of variation [CV]).

Results:

GRI with HCL (N = 61) compared with control (N = 59) was significantly lower (mean [SD] 33.5 [11.7] vs 56.1 [14.4], respectively; mean difference −22.8 [−27.2, −18.3], P = .001). The mean increase in TIR was +14.8 (11.0, 18.5)%. GRI negatively correlated with TIR for combined arms ( r = −.954; P = .001), and positively with TAR >250 mg/dL ( r = .901; P = .001), TBR < 54 mg/dL ( r = .416; P = .001), and glycemic variability (SD [ r = .916] and CV [ r = .732]; P = .001 for both).

Conclusions:

Twenty-six weeks of HCL improved GRI, in addition to other CGM metrics, compared with standard insulin therapy. The improvement in GRI was proportionally greater than the change in TIR, and GRI correlated with all CGM metrics. We suggest that GRI may be an appropriate primary outcome for closed-loop trials.
Dissemination of RT and Sputnik Content in European Digital Alternative News Environments: Mapping the Influence of Russian State-Backed Media Across Platforms, Topics, and Ideology
Authors: Henriksen Frederik Møller , Kristensen Jakob Bæk , Mayerhöffer Eva
Published: February 2024

The study investigates the dissemination of news content from two Russian state-backed media outlets, RT and Sputnik, within digital alternative news environments in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Sweden. We investigate these media outlets as parts of a Russian “sharp power” strategy, aimed at establishing informational influence within Western news environments. The analysis includes over 3.4 million social media posts containing URLs to RT and Sputnik content, published between January 2019 and March 2022. Drawing on a combined network analytical and computational text analysis approach, we examine the dissemination of RT and Sputnik content across a range of social media platforms (Twitter/X, Facebook, Telegram, VKontakte, Gab, Instagram, Reddit, 4chan, and YouTube). In the Danish and Swedish environments, the dissemination of content into core domestic alternative news communities is limited, primarily taking place on Facebook and, to a lesser extent, on Twitter/X. Fringe platforms such as Telegram, Gab and VKontakte facilitate a wider spread of content within domestic alternative news environments in German-speaking environments, predominantly among right-wing digital clusters. Within German-speaking alternative news environments, the shared content from RT and Sputnik primarily addresses domestic issues, such as COVID-19 policies and vaccines. In contrast, Danish- and Swedish-speaking alternative news environments emphasize foreign policy matters, including the Russian–Ukraine War, WikiLeaks, and Western military actions. These findings contribute to research on foreign state-media operations in digital information environments by focusing on both content and sharing patterns.
Complex neuropsychiatric presentation of 17q12 duplication syndrome: A case report
Authors: Das Soumitra , Samarasinghe Lochana , Deva Sheryl , Fernandez Co Elaiza Marie , Poudel Sujan , Dave Tirth , Prasad Sakshi , Sarangi Ashish
Published: February 2024

The chromosomal band 17q12 is characterized by a high density of genes and is bordered by segmental duplications, the structural arrangement of which increases the susceptibility of the region to deletions and duplications. Duplication of 17q12 is a rare genetic condition associated with variable characteristics from clinically asymptomatic to intellectual disabilities, seizures, and behavioral problems. The variability in phenotype is primarily due to variable expressivity and incomplete penetrance. Diagnosis is mostly established by chromosomal microarray. Treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach. We present a case of a 43-year-old female who initially presented with hyperphagia and was eventually diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, anxiety, mood disorder, and personality disorder. Additional research is required to better understand the impact of 17q12 duplication syndrome on the development of bulimia nervosa since its pathogenesis has not been adequately described in the current literature.
Advancing equity in challenging times: A qualitative study of telehealth expansion and changing patient–provider relationships in primary care settings during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Aijaz Monisa , Lewis Valerie A , Murray Genevra F
Published: February 2024

Objective

The patient–provider relationship is critical for achieving high-quality care and better health outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care practices rapidly transitioned to telehealth. While telehealth provided critical access to services for many, not all patients could optimally utilize it, raising concerns about its potential to exacerbate inequities in patient–provider relationships. We investigated technical and workforce-related barriers to accessing telehealth and the impacts on patient–provider relationships for vulnerable populations.

Methods

Qualitative, semi-structured interviews from May 2021 to August 2021 with 31 individuals (medical directors, physicians, and medical assistants) working at 20 primary care practices in Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Texas. Thematic analysis to better understand how barriers to using telehealth complicated patient–provider relationships.

Results

Interviewees shared challenges for providers and patients that had a negative effect on patient–provider relationships, particularly for vulnerable patients, including older adults, lower socio-economic status patients, and those with limited English proficiency. Providers faced logistical challenges and disruptions in team-based care, reducing care coordination. Patients experienced technological challenges that made accessing and engaging in telehealth difficult. Interviewees shared challenges for patient–provider relationships as commonly used telephone-only telehealth reduced channels for non-verbal communication.

Conclusion

This study indicates that barriers to virtual interaction with patients compared to in-person care likely led to weaker personal relationships that may have longer-term effects on engagement with and trust in the healthcare system, particularly among vulnerable patient groups. Additional support and resources should be available to primary care providers to optimize telehealth utilization.
Clinical decision support system using a machine learning model to assist simultaneous cardiopulmonary auscultation: Open-label randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hirosawa Takanobu , Sakamoto Tetsu , Harada Yukinori , Tokumasu Kazuki , Shimizu Taro
Published: February 2024

Background

The utility of a clinical decision support system using a machine learning (ML) model for simultaneous cardiac and pulmonary auscultation is unknown.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and evaluate an ML system's utility for cardiopulmonary auscultation.

Methods

First, we developed an ML system for cardiopulmonary auscultation, using cardiopulmonary sound files from our previous study. The technique involved pre-processing, feature extraction, and classification through several neural network layers. After integration, the output class was categorized as “normal,” “abnormal,” or “undetermined.” Second, we evaluated the ML system with 24 junior residents in an open-label randomized controlled trial at a university hospital. Participants were randomly assigned to the ML system group (intervention) or conventional auscultation group (control). During training, participants listened to four cardiac and four pulmonary sounds, all of which were correctly classified. Then, participants classified a series of 16 simultaneous cardiopulmonary sounds. The control group auscultated the sounds using noise-cancelling headphones, while the intervention group did so by watching recommendations from the ML system.

Results

The total scores for correctly identified normal or abnormal cardiopulmonary sounds in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group (366/384 [95.3%] vs. 343/384 [89.3%], P = 0.003). The cardiac test score in the intervention group was better (111/192 [57.8%] vs. 90/192 [46.9%], P = 0.04); there was no significant difference in pulmonary auscultation.

Conclusions

The ML-based system improved the accuracy of cardiopulmonary auscultation for junior residents. This result suggests that the system can assist early-career physicians in accurate screening.
A Survey of Sleep Quality From a Post-COVID Clinic
Authors: Punj Mantavya , Schwartz Michael , Morris Anjali , Cheung Joseph , Munipalli Bala
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

To assess the prevalence of sleep disturbance among patients evaluated at a clinic for patients afflicted with Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC).

Methods:

Sleep disturbance was assessed with the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Sleep Disturbance (PROMIS-SD) framework among adult patients of the PASC clinic.

Results:

Among 312 patients, the mean age was 46.2 years, and 70.2% were women. About 41.0% of patients had no sleep disturbance; sleep disturbance was mild to moderate in 51.3% and severe in 7.7%. PROMIS-SD score was negatively correlated with the time from the initial positive COVID-19 test to the initial consultation in the PASC clinic (Pearson r = −.094; r2 = .0088).

Conclusions:

The PROMIS-Sleep Disturbance framework can serve as a tool to assess the burden of sleep disturbances in PASC patients.
Future Research Prospects of Floriculture Industry from Management Perspective: A Bibliometric Analysis Using the SPAR-4-SLR Approach
Authors: Sinha Diksha , Sharma Roopali
Published: February 2024

Floriculture as a branch of the horticulture industry is still at a developing stage that needs to be assessed for further orientation in the areas of management, business and economics. The commercialization of ornamental plants and cut flowers is of recent origin in developing economies which have high growth potential, both in domestic and international markets. The study highlights the evolution of the floriculture industry having a management perspective and paving the way for future research directions. The paper conducts a bibliometric analysis and rigorous systematic review of 126 papers published in peer-reviewed journals related to the floriculture industry using the Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4-SLR) protocol. The Biblioshiny function of R software and VOS viewer is used for the analysis. The intellectual structure of the floriculture literature is presented through bibliographic coupling and thematic cluster analysis. The findings indicate considerable opportunities for further investigations in the field of floriculture focusing on the inclusion of sustainability practices, the evolution and role of women farmers and entrepreneurs, and supply chain management of floriculture products.
Exploring the Influence of Positive- and-Negative Electronic Word of Mouth on Online Consumer Behaviour and Customer Loyalty
Authors: Velnadar Regina , Kumaravel Sunitha Chelliah , Lathief Jaheera Thasleema Abdul , Jayacyril Christina Maria , Rohit  , Olson Bradley J. , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: February 2024

This study aims at investigating the effect of both positive and negative electronic word of mouth (eWOM) on online consumer buying behaviour, customer satisfaction, and customer loyalty. A conceptual model is developed and tested with the data collected from 652 respondents from a developing country. After checking the psychometric properties of the survey instrument, hierarchical regression was performed to test the hypothesized relationships. The results indicate that (a) positive eWOM has a positive effect and negative eWOM has a significant negative effect on online consumer buying behaviour, (b) online buying behaviour is positively associated with customer satisfaction, which, in turn, is related to customer loyalty, and (c) trust in information moderates the relationship between (a) positive eWOM and online buying behaviour, and (b) negative eWOM online buying behaviour. The findings also suggest that trust in the product increases the strength of the positive effect of online buying behaviour and customer satisfaction. The theoretical contribution of this article stems from highlighting the importance of trust in information and trust in products in strengthening the relationship between eWOM and online buying behaviour. The conceptual model developed and tested in this study provides valuable insights into the effects of both positive and negative eWOM on customer satisfaction and loyalty. The study recommends that e-retailers identify the most appropriate platforms where the potential buyers interact with others and exchange reviews and comments that may profoundly affect online buying behaviour.
Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Different Ni-Ti Rotary Instruments in Removal of Gutta-Percha During Root Canal Retreatment: An in vitro Study
Authors: Kumar S. Kishore , Kumar Mohit , Sharma Nikita , Arora Pulkit , Bhatt Megna , Akkanapally Sravyanjali
Published: February 2024

Aim:

An assessment and comparison of three retreatment files was conducted to determine their effectiveness in the retrieval of gutta-percha.

Materials and Method:

In the investigation, 60 extracted single-rooted human teeth having straight canals and complete apices were used. The ProTaper Universal file system was used to prepare teeth and obturated using gutta-percha with sealant AH Plus utilizing down pack and backfill obturation technique. Removal was performed with ProTaper, D-RaCe files, MTwo, and R-Endo retreatment files. Using a stopwatch, the time needed to take out the GP was also calculated in seconds. We used ANOVA along with the post hoc Tukey’s test to analyze the quantity of obturating material in apical, middle, and coronal third following decoronation and longitudinal splitting.

Results:

The average percentage of gutta-percha points removed across root levels varied significantly among the ProTaper, D-RaCe MTwo, and R-Endo groups. With the exception of the ProTaper group, when the middle level displayed the most removal, the coronal level showed much higher removal than the mid-root level, while the apical level often exhibited the highest removal.

Conclusion:

ProTaper retreatment files outperformed MTwo, D-RaCe, and R-Endo among the four groups in terms of removing root canal filling material. However, none of the experimental groups removed gutta-percha completely from root canals.
Incidence and Mortality of Salivary Gland Cancer Worldwide and Its Correlation with Tobacco Use (Smoking and Chewing) and With the Human Development Index
Authors: Hernández-Morales Antonio , González-López Blanca Silvia , Scougall-Vilchis Rogelio José , Velázquez-Enríquez Ulises , Ortiz Mario I. , Veras-Hernández Miriam Alejandra , Casanova-Rosado Juan Fernando , Casanova-Rosado Alejandro José , Medina-Solís Carlo Eduardo , Maupomé Gerardo
Published: February 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to quantify the association between the incidence and mortality of salivary gland cancer (SGC) with the consumption of tobacco and with the Human Development Index (HDI).

Materials and Methods:

An ecological study was designed using SGC incidence and mortality data in 172 countries in 2020, reported per 100,000 population with an age range of 10–85 years. Such dependent variables were obtained from the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN). The prevalences of smoked and chewed tobacco were obtained from reports made in 2019, sourced from Global Burden of Diseases Study, while the HDI was obtained from the Human Development Report (2019) presented by the United Nations Development Program, and were considered independent variables. Statistical analysis was performed in Stata using Spearman’s correlation test.

Results:

In 2020, there were 53,583 new cases of SGC worldwide, and countries with very high HDI exhibited a higher incidence. In terms of mortality, there were 22,778 cases worldwide, and countries with a moderate HDI showed a higher number of deaths. SGC mortality was associated with chewing tobacco use overall and in women. Surprising negative associations were found with the incidence of SGC and tobacco smoking in men, as well as with mortality of SGC and smoking overall and in women. CGS mortality was negatively associated with the HDI and all its components.

Conclusion:

In this international overview, SGC mortality is associated with chewing tobacco in women, as well as with the HDI and its components.
Analysing the Total Factor Productivity Change Among Urban Cooperative Banks in India: The Malmquist Productivity Approach
Authors: Zaman Aadil Ummar , Zaman Mohammad Shahid
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the total factor productivity (TFP) growth among urban cooperative banks in India during 2014–2020. The measurement of productivity is done using the data envelopment analysis-based Malmquist productivity index. We use two different models, viz., the intermediation approach and the production approach, to see how productivity estimates vary with the change in inputs and outputs. Our results show a large asymmetry in productivity estimates both among banks and over time. TFP estimates were consistently higher under the production approach vis-à-vis the intermediation approach. Further, the empirical results show that productivity gains were mainly determined by technological progress rather than efficiency improvements. Thus, collaborations in technological know-how can be beneficial to productivity growth.

JEL Classifications: G15, G21, G34
Risk Factors Associated With Poor Outcomes After Quadriceps Tendon Repair
Authors: Coladonato Carlo , Hanna Adeeb Jacob , Patel Neel K. , Sonnier John Hayden , Connors Gregory , Sabitsky Matthew , Johnson Emma , Mazur Donald W. , Brahmabhatt Shyam , Freedman Kevin B.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Ruptures of the quadriceps tendon present most frequently in older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions.

Purpose:

To examine the relationship between patient-specific factors and tear characteristics with outcomes after quadriceps tendon repair.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted on all patients who underwent quadriceps tendon repair between January 1, 2016, and January 1, 2021, at a single institution. Patients <18 years and those with chronic quadriceps tendon tears (>6 weeks to surgery) were excluded. Information was collected regarding patient characteristics, presenting symptoms, tear characteristics, physical examination findings, and postoperative outcomes. Poor outcome was defined as a need for revision surgery, complications, postoperative range of motion of (ROM) <110° of knee flexion, and extensor lag of >5°.

Results:

A total of 191 patients met the inclusion criteria. Patients were aged 58.5 ± 13.2 years at the time of surgery, were predominantly men (90.6%), and had a mean body mass index (BMI) of 32.2 ± 6.3 kg/m2. Patients underwent repair with either suture anchors (15.2%) or transosseous tunnels (84.8%). Postoperatively, 18.5% of patients experienced knee flexion ROM of <110°, 11.3% experienced extensor lag of >5°, 8.5% had complications, and 3.2% underwent revision. Increasing age (odds ratio [OR], 1.03 [95% CI, 1.004-1.07]) and female sex (OR, 3.82 [95% CI, 1.25-11.28]) were significantly associated with postoperative knee flexion of <110°, and increasing age (OR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.04-1.14]) and greater BMI (OR, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.05-1.23]) were significantly associated with postoperative extensor lag of >5°. Current smoking status (OR, 15.44 [95% CI, 3.97-65.90]) and concomitant retinacular tears (OR, 9.62 (95% CI, 1.67-184.14]) were associated with postoperative complications, and increasing age (OR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.02-1.08]) and greater BMI (OR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.02-1.14]) were associated with risk of acquiring any poor outcome criteria.

Conclusion:

Patient-specific characteristics—such as increasing age, greater BMI, female sex, retinacular involvement, and current smoking status—were found to be risk factors for poor outcomes after quadriceps tendon repair. Further studies are needed to identify potentially modifiable risk factors that can be used to set patient expectations and improve outcomes.
Complementarity Versus Substitution Relationship between Outward FDI and Exports: Evidence from India
Authors: Goldar Bishwanath , Parida Yashobanta , Goldar Anindita
Published: February 2024

The article is concerned with the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) flows and exports and asks if these two flows are substitutes or complement each other. Empirical work in this area employing industry- or country-level data has generally found a positive or complementary relationship between exports and FDI. Our empirical strategy is different in that we try to throw some light on the issue of substitution versus complementarity between FDI and exports by carrying out econometric analyses directed at assessing how India’s mass termination of bilateral investment treaties (BITs) in March 2017 and such BIT terminations during September–December 2016 and April 2017 to December 2018 impacted India’s FDI inflows and imports. Our finding of a significant negative effect of BIT termination on FDI inflows, corroborating the findings of two earlier studies and the finding of a significant positive impact of BIT termination of India’s imports is conceivably reconcilable only if there is a substitution relationship between FDI and exports. Hence, we find some empirical evidence of a substitution relationship between FDI and exports—at least, this has been the relationship between India’s inflow of FDI and the inflow of goods as imports, if not valid for other countries.

JEL codes: C31, C33, K33, F21
Engaged dialogue through data: For methodological pluralism in critical urban studies
Authors: Lauermann John
Published: February 2024

This commentary builds on Loretta Lees’ concept of engaged dialogue in critical urban studies to argue for more engaged dialogue through data. This type of dialogue would entail building critical theory from a more diverse and nuanced base of information, using mixed or plural methodologies. It could mean communicating with, about and through data with public-facing tools that incorporate participatory elements through the user interface. It would also require ongoing critical interpretation of the politics and political economy of urban data.
Adsorption of atrazine and paraquat on montmorillonite loaded with layered double hydroxide and active site energy distribution analysis
Authors: Liu Rui , Ma Chao , Chen Huanliang , Li Changsuo , Zuo Lei , Zhang Peng , Wang Yaqing , Wang Ru
Published: February 2024

Clay minerals are effective adsorbents for the remediation of pesticides in wastewater due to their large superficial areas and excellent cation-exchange capabilities. However, this adsorption effect can be reduced by the accumulation of adsorbents on clay minerals, amongst other problems. Therefore, in this study, montmorillonite (Mnt) modified by layered double hydroxide (LDH) with different loading amounts was successfully prepared using an in situ method. The results from X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectrometry, Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET) and scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed that LDH structures were successfully combined with the Mnt layer and formed a porous structure. However, excess LDH still caused the aggregation and accumulation of layers. The adsorption performance of LDH@Mnt for atrazine (ATZ) and paraquat (PQ) was investigated, and the removal efficiency of the LDH@Mnt composite was higher than those of Mnt and LDH alone. The kinetic study revealed that the adsorption process fitted the pseudo-second-order model and internal diffusion model, and 3-LDH@Mnt had the greatest absorbability efficiency for both ATZ and PQ, indicating the adsorption process was controlled by the number of active sites of the adsorbent. The generalized Langmuir model accurately characterized the adsorption process of ATZ and PQ elimination in the adsorption isotherm investigation, indicating that the adsorption energies of the active sites on the adsorbents were different. 3-LDH@Mnt had better absorbability performance for ATZ/PQ, and the sorption capacities were 7.03 and 91.9 mg g–1, respectively. According to site energy distribution theory, the amount of sorption sites of the composite adsorbent was large and the average adsorption energy was high, both of which being beneficial for the adsorption of ATZ and PQ. The effects of pH, coexisting anions and reuse experiments were also tested, indicating that the LDH@Mnt composite possessed high adsorption stability. This excellent removal performance represents a promising strategy for the remediation and elimination of pesticide contaminations from the environment.
Comparing learning outcomes of two collaborative activities on random genetic drift in an upper-division genetics course
Authors: True John R. , Abreu Evan
Published: February 2024

Background

Random genetic drift is a difficult concept for biology undergraduates to understand. Active learning activities in a collaborative setting have the potential to improve student learning outcomes compared to traditional lectures alone and have been shown to help foster success for underrepresented students. However, few activities in this content area have been evaluated for effectiveness in improving student outcomes using peer-reviewed instruments backed by evidence of their validity and reliability. Our aim in this study was to use the Genetic Drift Instrument (GeDI) to evaluate and compare student learning gains in an upper division genetics course in which two different genetic drift activities, a faculty-developed collaborative exercise and a commercially published lab tutorial, were administered in an active-learning classroom with students working in small groups.

Methods

The GeDI was administered in both pre- and post-testing in two semesters (n = 95 and 98 students), with the semesters differing in which activity was assigned. Instrument dimensionality, person and item fit, and reliability were evaluated using Rasch analysis. Hierarchical Linear Models (HLMs) with two-way interactions were fitted to assess whether being in a certain Intervention Type, Race/ethnicity, Gender, or First Generation Status affected learning gains. HLMs with three-way interactions were used to assess whether the activities benefited students of all backgrounds equivalently.

Results

We found that the GeDI demonstrated unidimensionality, with high item reliability and relatively low person reliability, consistent with previous studies. Both the faculty-developed activity and the commercially available lab tutorial were associated with significant learning gains on genetic drift concepts. Students in the SimBio group had higher learning gains but the difference in effect size was small. No significant differences in learning gains were found between students from different demographic groups, and both activities appeared to benefit students of different backgrounds equivalently.

Conclusions

The GeDI instrument could be improved by adding items that more consistently differentiate students of different ability levels, especially at high ability levels. The greater impact on learning gains in the SimBio group while statistically significant does not translate into actual meaningful differences in student understanding. While students of different background variables in the sample have equivalent learning gains and are benefitted equivalently by the different interventions, our interventions did not ameliorate inequities in genetic drift understanding as measured by the GeDI that were uncovered in pre-testing.
Predicting the duration of motorway incidents using machine learning
Authors: Corbally Robert , Yang Linhao , Malekjafarian Abdollah
Published: February 2024

Motorway incidents are frequent & varied in nature. Incident management on motorways is critical for both driver safety & road network operation. The expected duration of an incident is a key parameter in the decision-making process for control room operators, however, the actual duration for which an incident will impact the network is never known with true certainty. This paper presents a study which compares the ability of different machine learning algorithms to estimate the duration of motorway incidents on Ireland’s M50 motorway, using an extensive historical incident database. Results show that the support vector machine has the best performance in most cases, but a different method may need to be used to improve accuracy in some situations. Results highlight the main challenges in accurately forecasting incident durations in real time & recommendations are made for improving prediction accuracy through systematic recording of various additional incident details.
What happens to Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Bifidobacterium longum ssp. longum in an experimental environment with eukaryotic cells?
Authors: Jakubczyk Dominika , Leszczyńska Katarzyna , Pacyga-Prus Katarzyna , Kozakiewicz Dominika , Kazana-Płuszka Wioletta , Gełej Dominika , Migdał Paweł , Kruszakin Roksana , Zabłocka Agnieszka , Górska Sabina
Published: February 2024

Background

The impact of probiotic strains on host health is widely known. The available studies on the interaction between bacteria and the host are focused on the changes induced by bacteria in the host mainly. The studies determining the changes that occurred in the bacteria cells are in the minority. Within this paper, we determined what happens to the selected Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Bifidobacterium longum ssp. longum in an experimental environment with the intestinal epithelial layer. For this purpose, we tested the bacteria cells' viability, redox activity, membrane potential and enzymatic activity in different environments, including CaCo-2/HT-29 co-culture, cell culture medium, presence of inflammatory inductor (TNF-α) and oxygen.

Results

We indicated that the external milieu impacts the viability and vitality of bacteria. Bifidobacterium adolescentis decrease the size of the live population in the cell culture medium with and without TNF-α (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01 respectively). In contrast, Bifidobacterium longum ssp. longum significantly increased survivability in contact with the eukaryotic cells and cell culture medium (p < 0.001). Bifidobacterium adolescentis showed significant changes in membrane potential, which was decreased in the presence of eukaryotic cells (p < 0.01), eukaryotic cells in an inflammatory state (p < 0.01), cell culture medium (p < 0.01) and cell culture medium with TNF-α (p < 0.05). In contrast, Bifidobacterium longum ssp. longum did not modulate membrane potential. Instead, bacteria significantly decreased the redox activity in response to milieus such as eukaryotic cells presence, inflamed eukaryotic cells as well as the culture medium (p < 0.001). The redox activity was significantly different in the cells culture medium vs the presence of eukaryotic cells (p < 0.001). The ability to β-galactosidase production was different for selected strains: Bifidobacterium longum ssp. longum indicated 91.5% of positive cells, whereas Bifidobacterium adolescentis 4.34% only. Both strains significantly reduced the enzyme production in contact with the eukaryotic milieu but not in the cell culture media.

Conclusion

The environmental-induced changes may shape the probiotic properties of bacterial strains. It seems that the knowledge of the sensitivity of bacteria to the external environment may help to select the most promising probiotic strains, reduce research costs, and contribute to greater reproducibility of the obtained probiotic effects.
A comprehensive study on non-cancer-related mortality risk factors in elderly gastric cancer patients post-curative surgery
Authors: Ushimaru Yuki , Nagano Shinnosuke , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Kawabata Ryohei , Takeoka Tomohira , Kitagawa Akihiro , Ohara Nobuyoshi , Tomihara Hideo , Maeda Sakae , Imazato Mitsunobu , Noura Shingo , Miyamoto Atsushi
Published: February 2024

Background

The increasing incidence of gastric cancer in the elderly underscores the need for an in-depth understanding of the challenges and risks associated with surgical interventions in this demographic. This study aims to investigate the risk factors and prognostic indicators for non-cancer-related mortality following curative surgery in elderly gastric cancer patients.

Methods

This retrospective analysis examined 684 patients with pathological Stage I—III gastric cancer who underwent curative resection between January 2012 and December 2021. The study focused on patients aged 70 years and above, evaluating various clinical and pathological variables. Univariate analysis was utilized to identify potential risk factors with to non-cancer-related mortality and to access prognostic outcomes.

Results

Out of the initial 684 patients, 244 elderly patients were included in the analysis, with 33 succumbing to non-cancer-related causes. Univariate analysis identified advanced age (≥ 80 years), low body mass index (BMI) (< 18.5), high Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and the presence of overall surgical complications as significant potential risk factors for non-cancer related mortality. These factors also correlated with poorer overall survival and prognosis. The most common cause of non-cancer-related deaths were respiratory issues and heart failure.

Conclusion

In elderly gastric cancer patients, managing advanced age, low BMI, high CCI, and minimizing postoperative complications are essential for reducing non-cancer-related mortality following curative surgery.
Clinical and genomic evaluations of a persistent fatal SARS-CoV-2 infection in a goods syndrome patient: a case report
Authors: Tabarsi Payam , Maleki Ali , Abtahian Zahra , khabbaz Alieh , Fereydouni Zahra , Rezaie Jahangir , Tavakoli Mahsa , Sanati Parastoo Yektay , Salehi-Vaziri Mostafa
Published: February 2024

The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) resulted from an infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2) which is the main cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in global population from 2019 on. It may contribute to higher rate of death among the patients with immunodeficiency based on recent reports. In addition, Good syndrome (GS) as a result of thymoma removal might cause in some long-lasting microbial infections. We described clinical aspects and viral mutations on a case of GS suffering from COVID-19. A 46-year-old man with fever, common respiratory disease symptoms and positive COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, with the history of thymoma removal surgery was admitted to Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Lung radiographs and oxygen saturation measurement disclosed considerable implication resulted in application of several anti-microbial medication. The delta variant (B.1.617.2 (21 J Clade)) was the strain isolated from the patient by sequencing methods done by the COVID-19 National Reference Laboratory (CNRL), Pasteur Institute of Iran, while the dominant strain circulated mostly among population was Omicron (B.1.1.529) at the time of sampling. Unfortunately, the patient had passed away a month later by sudden respiratory failure progressed in refractory septic shock. Despite the fact that opportunistic infections may lead the GS patients to a major health problematic condition, unusual persistent of infections such as non-dominant variant of SARS-Cov-2 could be observed through the disease timeline. Therefore, a fully screening of thymoma plus intra-host evolution monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 is highly recommended in immunocompromised patients.