bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the Predator Become the Prey? Knowledge Spillover and Protection in Alliances
Authors: Friedmann Jens-Christian , Lavie Dovev , Rademaker Linda
Published: July 2024

Does a firm that successfully absorbs knowledge from an alliance partner learn to protect its own knowledge in subsequent alliances? Our analysis of 529 alliances of East Asian firms during 1999–2015 suggests that as firms more skillfully overcome their partners’ knowledge protection, they learn to better protect their own knowledge in subsequent alliances. However, such vicarious learning increases at a diminishing rate and is further weakened by the firm’s relative absorptive capacity and the value chain scope of the previous alliance. Our study extends research on learning in alliances by demonstrating cross-alliance dynamics and by revealing conditions under which absorbing knowledge from previous partners helps a firm protect its own knowledge in subsequent alliances.
Children draw favorite peers close to them in pictures: Longitudinal evidence from picture-drawing task and social network analyses
Authors: Shinohara Asami , Narazaki Miyabi , Kobayashi Tessei
Published: July 2024

Knowing a child’s affiliative feelings about a peer helps us understand child’s social behavior toward peers and can predict how a relationship between two children would continue. A picture-drawing task, in which a child draws himself or herself and a peer, is a potentially valid way to measure a child’s feelings of affiliation toward the peer. In this study, we established the validity of the picture-drawing task by testing two hypotheses: whether a child’s higher affiliation toward a peer would relate to a shorter distance between the drawn child and the drawn peer (Hypothesis a) and whether the child’s temporal variation of affiliation would relate to a change in the distance between two drawn figures across two time points (Hypothesis b). Forty-five children aged 3 to 6 attending the same nursery school in Japan drew pictures of themselves and a schoolmate. To determine who would draw whom in the picture-drawing task, we conducted a friend-nomination task and used social network analyses with such data to compute each child’s degree of affiliation toward every schoolmate. The analyses supported both hypotheses: the distance in the drawing was shorter when the children drew a high-affiliation peer than a low-affiliation peer, and the distance in the picture became longer as the child’s affiliation toward a peer decreased over time. Our results strengthen the validity of the picture-drawing task for measuring children’s affiliation toward a peer.
How perceived parenting qualities link to the reciprocal relationship between adolescents’ self-concept and life satisfaction
Authors: Xing Huilin , Zhang Yanqiu , Yao Meilin , Zhu Wenlong , Liu Hongrui
Published: July 2024

Assisting adolescents in cultivating a positive self-concept and leading fulfilling lives is paramount. Supported by longitudinal data from 512 Chinese adolescents, the researchers investigated not only the reciprocal associations between two types of self-concept—academic and physical abilities—and life satisfaction but also the roles of perceived parenting qualities in impacting these dynamics. Results revealed the following: (a) academic (but not physical ability) self-concept had a reciprocal relationship with life satisfaction; (b) perceived parental warmth (rather than autonomy support), rejection, and psychological control significantly predicted self-concept and life satisfaction and have the potential to steer adolescents into a virtuous or vicious cycle in terms of evaluating themselves and their lives. Findings offer valuable insights for fostering self-concept and life satisfaction among adolescents within the framework of parenting qualities and the cultural and social milieu of adolescent growth.
Accurate EVSI Estimation for Nonlinear Models Using the Gaussian Approximation Method
Authors: Li Linke , Jalal Hawre , Heath Anna
Published: July 2024

Background

The expected value of sample information (EVSI) measures the expected benefits that could be obtained by collecting additional data. Estimating EVSI using the traditional nested Monte Carlo method is computationally expensive, but the recently developed Gaussian approximation (GA) approach can efficiently estimate EVSI across different sample sizes. However, the conventional GA may result in biased EVSI estimates if the decision models are highly nonlinear. This bias may lead to suboptimal study designs when GA is used to optimize the value of different studies. Therefore, we extend the conventional GA approach to improve its performance for nonlinear decision models.

Methods

Our method provides accurate EVSI estimates by approximating the conditional expectation of the benefit based on 2 steps. First, a Taylor series approximation is applied to estimate the conditional expectation of the benefit as a function of the conditional moments of the parameters of interest using a spline, which is fitted to the samples of the parameters and the corresponding benefits. Next, the conditional moments of parameters are approximated by the conventional GA and Fisher information. The proposed approach is applied to several data collection exercises involving non-Gaussian parameters and nonlinear decision models. Its performance is compared with the nested Monte Carlo method, the conventional GA approach, and the nonparametric regression-based method for EVSI calculation.

Results

The proposed approach provides accurate EVSI estimates across different sample sizes when the parameters of interest are non-Gaussian and the decision models are nonlinear. The computational cost of the proposed method is similar to that of other novel methods.

Conclusions

The proposed approach can estimate EVSI across sample sizes accurately and efficiently, which may support researchers in determining an economically optimal study design using EVSI.

Highlights

The Gaussian approximation method efficiently estimates the expected value of sample information (EVSI) for clinical trials with varying sample sizes, but it may introduce bias when health economic models have a nonlinear structure. We introduce the spline-based Taylor series approximation method and combine it with the original Gaussian approximation to correct the nonlinearity-induced bias in EVSI estimation. Our approach can provide more precise EVSI estimates for complex decision models without sacrificing computational efficiency, which can enhance the resource allocation strategies from the cost-effective perspective.
Novel Methodology to Measure the Reliability of Public DC Fast Charging Stations
Authors: Gamage Tisura D. , Jenn Alan T. , Tal Gil
Published: July 2024

A network of reliable corridor charging stations is essential to building driver confidence in long-distance battery electric vehicle trips. Here, we propose a detailed methodology to measure station reliability based on charging infrastructure data. By assigning charging events to unique charging visits, our methodology can capture a holistic overview of the driver’s charging experience. We use real world charging data collected between 2019 and 2022 from 54 Direct Current Fast Chargers (DCFCs) in 36 corridor charging stations across California to demonstrate that our overarching reliability framework is close to the experience of users. Our analysis of two different charging networks shows that users of these networks have an average chance of 83% and 77% generally successful outcomes, respectively, after one or more tries at a charging station location. We also find significant variation in station performance within the same network (i.e., 79%–87% and 13%–95%, respectively). Furthermore, we observe that at least 3% of users are facing unexpected charging interruptions. In addition, we demonstrate a practical application of our framework for deep diagnostics of the charging eco-system using error codes to identify common issues such as vehicle/charger communication issues, safety issues, payment issues, and cable/connector issues. We compare how error codes alone are not a good proxy to diagnose charging failures. As more data from DCFCs becomes available, our methodology can become a mainstream tool for evaluating station reliability.
The complexity of historical time in the Latin American Marxism: Variegated social formations and structural heterogeneity in the work of René Zavaleta and Aníbal Quijano
Authors: Cabaluz Fabian , López Tomás Torres
Published: July 2024

This article investigates the categories of variegated social formations and structural historical heterogeneity, which have been developed from Latin American Marxism as a theoretical attempt that aims to account for the complexity of the debates around historical time. For this, the work of René Zavaleta Mercado (Bolivia) and Aníbal Quijano (Peru) is analyzed, revealing their connections and divergences. It is concluded that there are important meeting points, but also disagreements.
The Role of Police Perception in Shaping Public Meeting Attendance and Implications for Planners
Authors: Lee C. Aujean , Kuk John S.
Published: July 2024

This is the first study to assess how resident perception of the police is associated with public meeting attendance. Using 689 exit poll surveys in Oklahoma City, we conducted regression models to understand factors associated with meeting attendance. Our findings reveal that police perception is related to meeting attendance, especially for younger, college-educated residents who live in non-white precincts. The study also helps to differentiate resident perceptions of police compared to other public services. The findings are important given that typical public meeting attendees are older and white and the role of police powers in urban planning processes.
Toward an Indoor Lighting Solution for Social Jet Lag
Authors: Neitz Alexandra , Rice Alicia , Casiraghi Leandro , Bussi Ivana L. , Buhr Ethan D. , Neitz Maureen , Neitz Jay , de la Iglesia Horacio O. , Kuchenbecker James A.
Published: July 2024

There is growing interest in developing artificial lighting that stimulates intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) to entrain circadian rhythms to improve mood, sleep, and health. Efforts have focused on stimulating the intrinsic photopigment, melanopsin; however, specialized color vision circuits have been elucidated in the primate retina that transmit blue-yellow cone-opponent signals to ipRGCs. We designed a light that stimulates color-opponent inputs to ipRGCs by temporally alternating short- and long-wavelength components that strongly modulate short-wavelength sensitive (S) cones. Two-hour exposure to this S-cone modulating light produced an average circadian phase advance of 1 h and 20 min in 6 subjects (mean age = 30 years) compared to no phase advance for the subjects after exposure to a 500 lux white light equated for melanopsin effectiveness. These results are promising for developing artificial lighting that is highly effective in controlling circadian rhythms by invisibly modulating cone-opponent circuits.
A Detailed Re-Examination of the Period Gene Rescue Experiments Shows That Four to Six Cryptochrome-Positive Posterior Dorsal Clock Neurons (DN1p) of Drosophila melanogaster Can Control Morning and Evening Activity
Authors: Sekiguchi Manabu , Reinhard Nils , Fukuda Ayumi , Katoh Shun , Rieger Dirk , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte , Yoshii Taishi
Published: July 2024

Animal circadian clocks play a crucial role in regulating behavioral adaptations to daily environmental changes. The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster exhibits 2 prominent peaks of activity in the morning and evening, known as morning (M) and evening (E) peaks. These peaks are controlled by 2 distinct circadian oscillators located in separate groups of clock neurons in the brain. To investigate the clock neurons responsible for the M and E peaks, a cell-specific gene expression system, the GAL4-UAS system, has been commonly employed. In this study, we re-examined the two-oscillator model for the M and E peaks of Drosophila by utilizing more than 50 Gal4 lines in conjunction with the UAS-period16 line, which enables the restoration of the clock function in specific cells in the period ( per) null mutant background. Previous studies have indicated that the group of small ventrolateral neurons (s-LNv) is responsible for controlling the M peak, while the other group, consisting of the 5th ventrolateral neuron (5th LNv) and the three cryptochrome (CRY)-positive dorsolateral neurons (LNd), is responsible for the E peak. Furthermore, the group of posterior dorsal neurons 1 (DN1p) is thought to also contain M and E oscillators. In this study, we found that Gal4 lines directed at the same clock neuron groups can lead to different results, underscoring the fact that activity patterns are influenced by many factors. Nevertheless, we were able to confirm previous findings that the entire network of circadian clock neurons controls M and E peaks, with the lateral neurons playing a dominant role. In addition, we demonstrate that 4 to 6 CRY-positive DN1p cells are sufficient to generate M and E peaks in light-dark cycles and complex free-running rhythms in constant darkness. Ultimately, our detailed screening could serve as a catalog to choose the best Gal4 lines that can be used to rescue per in specific clock neurons.
Canadian Association of Radiologists Statement on Environmental Sustainability in Medical Imaging
Authors: Hanneman Kate , Szava-Kovats Andrew , Burbridge Brent , Leswick David , Nadeau Brandon , Islam Omar , Lee Emil J. Y. , Harris Alison , Hamel Candyce , Brown Maura J.
Published: July 2024

Immediate and strategic action is needed to improve environmental sustainability and reduce the detrimental effects of climate change. Climate change is already adversely affecting the health of Canadians related to worsening air pollution and wildfire smoke, increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, and expansion of vector-borne and infectious illnesses. On one hand, radiology contributes to the climate crisis by generating greenhouse gas emissions and waste during the production, manufacture, transportation, and use of medical imaging equipment and supplies. On the other hand, radiology departments are also susceptible to equipment and infrastructure damage from flooding, extreme temperatures, and power failures, as well as workforce shortages due to injury and illness, potentially disrupting radiology services and increasing costs. The Canadian Association of Radiologists’ (CAR) advocacy for environmentally sustainable radiology in Canada encompasses both minimizing the detrimental effects that delivery of radiology services has on the environment and optimizing the resilience of radiology departments to increasing health needs and changing patterns of disease on imaging related to climate change. This statement provides specific recommendations and pathways to help guide radiologists, medical imaging leadership teams, industry partners, governments, and other key stakeholders to transition to environmentally sustainable, net-zero, and climate-resilient radiology organizations. Specific consideration is given to unique aspects of medical imaging in Canada. Finally, environmentally sustainable radiology programs, policies, and achievements in Canada are highlighted.
Development of the Japanese Version of the Rape Excusing Attitudes and Language Scale and Comparison Between Rape Myth Acceptance in Japan and the U.S.
Authors: Sasaki Rina , Hahnel-Peeters Rebecka K. , Shimizu Eiji
Published: July 2024

Rape myth acceptance (RMA) is the acceptance of false beliefs, stereotypes, and statements about rape victims, perpetrators, and the act itself. RMA positively predicts shame felt by victims and negatively predicts reports of sexual victimization. Knowledge about sexual violence changes over time; accordingly, psychometric scales measuring RMA should be updated. Hahnel-Peeters and Goetz developed the Rape Excusing Attitudes and Language (REAL) scale by updating the Illinois RMA Scale—a major instrument used in the United States. However, the REAL scale is not available in Japanese. Therefore, we developed and validated a Japanese version of the REAL scale, evaluated RMA in Japanese individuals ( N = 1,000), and compared the Japanese participants’ RMA levels with the mean participant scores from Hahnel-Peeters and Goetz. In collaboration with one of the original authors, the Japanese version was developed through a back-translation process and administered to 1,000 men and women aged between 18 and 65; exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted on the data collected. The confirmatory factor analysis showed that the Japanese version moderately fitted the 4-factor structure of the original REAL scale. However, a 2-factor form obtained in the exploratory factor analysis best fit the data. Consistent with the original version, the Japanese version showed higher RMA in men than in women. The young generation (18–29 years old) self-reported higher RMA than other generations. Japan’s RMA was significantly higher than that of the U.S. sample. The Japanese version of the REAL scale can be used in future studies to assess RMA in Japanese individuals and develop suitable educational programs to reduce RMA.
Interacting multiple model-based yaw stability control for distributed drive electric vehicle via adaptive model predictive control algorithm
Authors: Liu Taiyou , Wang Xiaowei , Li Guang , Li Wenfeng , Xie Zhengchao , Wong Pak Kin , Zhao Jing
Published: July 2024

The vehicle lateral stability control is a challenging problem due to the tire nonlinearity and the immeasurable sideslip angle. Thus, an adaptive model predictive control (AMPC) scheme based on interacting multiple model (IMM) vehicle sideslip angle observer is proposed in this paper. First, the observer is composed of the Extended Kalman filter (EKF) and the Unscented Kalman filter (UKF), which improves the real-time performance as well as the observation accuracy. Then, a multi-objective controller based on adaptive vehicle model prediction is designed using model predictive control algorithm. This controller aims to achieve a balance between the actuation and state constraints. The T-S fuzzy algorithm is used to observe the tire cornering stiffness and design an adaptive vehicle model. By utilizing the appropriate objective function and a quadratic programing solver, the controller output is obtained to achieve vehicle stability control. Finally, the effectiveness of the designed AMPC scheme under various working conditions is verified by Carsim-Simulink joint simulation platform and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test.
A critical review of transitioning from conventional actuators to artificial muscles in upper-limb rehabilitation devices
Authors: Garofalo Salvatore , Morano Chiara , Perrelli Michele , Pagnotta Leonardo , Carbone Giuseppe , Mundo Domenico , Bruno Luigi
Published: July 2024

Brain injuries resulting from spinal cord injuries, strokes, or cerebral palsy are among the traumas most capable of compromising the motor activities of human limbs, hence the necessity for the development of exoskeletons dedicated to the rehabilitation of these organs. This review examines the landscape of actuators essential for the design of cutting-edge upper-limb rehabilitation exoskeletal structures. Beyond merely surveying the current types of actuators available, the paper aims to provide guidelines for selecting actuators that fit optimally with the objectives of upper-limb rehabilitation. The description starts with a brief discussion on the biomechanics of the upper limbs, focusing on the kinematics of pivotal joints (wrist, elbow, shoulder). Subsequently, the existing actuators are systematically reviewed, offering detailed insights into their primary features, operational principles, strengths, weaknesses, and noteworthy applications within the realm of rehabilitation robotics. After the discussion about the actuators, the paper advances by furnishing valuable guidelines for actuators’ selection tailored for upper limb rehabilitation. These guidelines discuss crucial factors, such as the forces required and the natural Range Of Motions (ROMs) of upper limb joints. Finally, the manuscript serves as a valuable resource for researchers, engineers, and practitioners involved in the development of innovative upper-limb rehabilitation devices.
Coping with Social Media Envy in Luxury Consumption: The Role of Social Networking Site Actions
Authors: Miao Murong , Tang Chuanyi , Guo Lin , Karande Kiran
Published: July 2024

Because social networking sites facilitate social comparison, consumer envy becomes inevitable among social media users. Drawing on social comparison and coping theories, this study examines how different types of envy lead to consumers’ distinct behaviors on social networking sites, some of which are self-directed and focus on self-enhancement, while others are either positive or negative interactions with the envied person. Employing both the contexts of luxury product and service sharing experiences on Instagram, the authors consistently show in four studies that whereas consumers who experience benign envy are more likely to interact with the envied person positively, such as liking the envied person’s posts, those who experience malicious envy are more likely to engage in negative interactions, such as unfollowing the envied person. Benign enviers are more likely to engage in self-enhancement actions on social networking sites, such as posting images/videos more frequently, compared with malicious enviers. When coping with the negative feeling of envy, positive interactions help benign enviers improve their sense of belonging. In contrast, malicious enviers tend to engage in maladaptive coping behaviors, such as engaging in negative interactions with the envied, which may diminish their sense of belonging and lead to negative self-perceptions.
Plant-Based Diets and Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: VanCleef Tricia R. , Hutchens Amy
Published: July 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality globally, disproportionately impacting older adults. Plant-based diets (PBDs) have emerged as a dietary strategy to mitigate CVD risk, characterized by foods derived from plants and minimal to no animal-derived foods. This integrative review assesses the effectiveness of PBDs for improving CVD risk factors in older adults. A search was conducted in CINAHL, PubMed, and Medline databases for studies of PBDs and CVD risk factors in individuals aged 65 years and older. Quality assessment was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Seventeen publications were analyzed, 7 experimental and 10 non-experimental. All studies showed at least one positive association between PBDs and cardiovascular health in older adults. Findings highlighted significant associations between PBD adherence and reductions in key CVD risk factors, such as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI), alongside potential benefits in reducing coronary artery calcium and enhancing endothelial function and serum isoflavone concentrations. There is evidence for the potential of PBDs as an effective dietary strategy to prevent the onset and progression of CVD in older adults and reduce the risk of CVD mortality. This review indicates the need for further research. Larger randomized control trials focused on older adults may strengthen the evidence base and guide healthcare recommendations. PBDs should be considered as a part of holistic CVD prevention and management strategies for older adults, encouraging dietary patterns that are rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Healthcare Provider Perspectives on Access to Healthcare for Chronic Low Back Pain Across Urban, Rural, and Remote Settings
Authors: Crockett Katie , Lovo Stacey , Irvine Alison , Trask Catherine , Oosman Sarah , McKinney Veronica , McDonald Terrence , Sari Nazmi , Martinez-Rueda Rosmary , Aiyer Harini , Carnegie Bertha , Custer Marie , McIntosh Stacey , Bath Brenna
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Healthcare providers play a crucial role in improving access to care for patients with CLBP, but they face numerous challenges in doing so. This study focuses on healthcare provider perspectives of CLBP healthcare access.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 healthcare providers across a variety of disciplines who care for people with CLBP across Saskatchewan, Canada. A qualitative interpretive research approach with inductive thematic analysis was employed.

Results:

Years of experience ranged from 1 to >20 years. Participants represented 11 disciplines across urban, rural, and/or remote settings. Four overarching themes were identified: (1) Challenges for healthcare providers; (2) Anticipating and recognizing barriers and consequences for patients; (3) Facilitators for healthcare providers and patients; (4) Recommendations on improving accessibility to healthcare. Several barriers were identified for healthcare providers to provide optimal, evidence-based care across Saskatchewan, including patient complexity and past experiences, access to resources and coordinating care. Healthcare providers recognized barriers for patients, which ultimately influenced healthcare provider decisions and care provision. Coordinated care and funding were identified as facilitators that support healthcare provider recommendations of multidisciplinary care and improving provider education to enhance provision of care for chronic low back pain.

Conclusion:

Future care models should build on these identified factors, while considering clinical and community-specific contexts.
Investigations Towards Tryptophan Uptake and Transport Across an In Vitro Model of the Oral Mucosa Epithelium
Authors: Lin Grace C. , Tevini Julia , Mair Lisa , Friedl Heinz-Peter , Fuchs Dietmar , Felder Thomas , Gostner Johanna M. , Neuhaus Winfried
Published: July 2024

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid and plays an important role in several metabolic processes relevant for the human health. As the main metabolic pathway for tryptophan along the kynurenine axis is involved in inflammatory responses, changed metabolite levels can be used to monitor inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis. As a progenitor of serotonin, altered tryptophan levels have been related to several neurogenerative diseases as well as depression or anxiety. While tryptophan concentrations are commonly evaluated in serum, a non-invasive detection approach using saliva might offer significant advantages, especially during long-term treatments of patients or elderly. In order to estimate whether active transport processes for tryptophan might contribute to a potential correlation between blood and saliva tryptophan concentrations, we investigated tryptophan’s transport across an established oral mucosa in vitro model. Interestingly, treatment with tryptophan revealed a concentration dependent secretion of tryptophan and the presence of a saturable transporter while transport studies with deuterated tryptophan displayed increased permeability from the saliva to the blood compartment. Protein analysis demonstrated a distinct expression of L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1), the major transporter for tryptophan, and exposure to inhibitors (2 -amino-2-norbornanecarboxylic acid (BCH), L-leucine) led to increased tryptophan levels on the saliva side. Additionally, exposure to tryptophan in equilibrium studies resulted in a regulation of LAT1 at the mRNA level. The data collected in this study suggest the participation of active transport mechanisms for tryptophan across the oral mucosa epithelium. Future studies should investigate the transport of tryptophan across salivary gland epithelia in order to enable a comprehensive understanding of tryptophan exchange at the blood-saliva barrier.
Management of Guttate Psoriasis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zhou Ted , Koussiouris John , Kim Lauren , Vender Ronald
Published: July 2024

Guttate psoriasis (GP) is a variant of psoriasis characterized by scattered “drop-like” papules and plaques, accounting for up to a quarter of psoriasis cases. Although GP can clear within 3 to 4 months, up to 39% of cases may progress to chronic plaque psoriasis. Currently, there is a paucity of literature investigating the efficacy of different treatment modalities. This systematic review aims to synthesize all available data on GP treatment efficacy. A literature search was conducted using Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL with no date limits. A total of 75 studies satisfied eligibility criteria and were analyzed. Most studies were case reports, series, or retrospective studies. Only 5 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified. For topical treatments, corticosteroids and calcipotriol creams had the most evidence for efficacy. Four categories of systemic therapies were identified: traditional immunosuppressants, antibiotics, retinoids, and biologics. Evidence regarding antibiotic therapy suggests minimal connection between underlying infection resolution and GP lesion remission. Phototherapy had the most robust evidence, with narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) being the most effective. Our findings are limited by high heterogeneity in study design and high risk of bias. Based on our review, we propose the following treatment algorithm. As first-line therapy, we recommend topical corticosteroids and calcipotriol cream, in combination with phototherapy. As supportive therapy, we recommend antibiotics if applicable. For second-line therapy, we recommend methotrexate or cyclosporine. For severe and refractory GP, biologics can be used as third-line treatment. RCTs are needed to provide higher quality evidence to create standardized treatment recommendations.
Implementation of task-based language teaching in a Spanish language program: Instructors’ and students’ perceptions
Authors: Gutiérrez Xavier
Published: July 2024

Most research on task-based language teaching (TBLT) has focused on specific factors that play a role in task-based performance and learning, whereas considerably fewer studies have paid attention to how TBLT curricula have been developed and delivered in second language (L2) teaching contexts. However, it has been argued that the latter type of evaluative inquiry is crucial in order to advance the educational significance of the approach. While more evaluation studies have been published in recent years, few of them adopt a multi-methodological, longitudinal and cyclical perspective. The current study examines the planning and implementation of task-based instruction in a university-level Spanish as a foreign language program over a five-year period, with a particular emphasis on instructors’ and students’ perceptions about the approach. Data sources consisted of notes from meetings with instructors, classroom observations, students’ perceptions collected through journals, focus groups and questionnaires, and instructors’ perceptions collected through a questionnaire. The qualitative and quantitative analysis of these data revealed critical aspects of the planning phase, positive and challenging components of the approach, modifications made in response to participants’ perceptions, as well as a gradual increase regarding the level of acceptance of task-based instruction throughout the implementation. Implications for the implementation and evaluation of TBLT in other second language educational contexts are discussed.
“We’re not as great as we used to be”: Perceived national status threat and the desire for strong leaders
Authors: Ionescu Octavia , Mols Frank , Álvarez Belén , Selvanathan Hema Preya , Crimston Charlie , Jetten Jolanda
Published: July 2024

We examined whether perceived national status threat—i.e., perceiving that one’s country’s status on the international scene is in decline—predicts increased desire for a strong conservative or progressive leader through greater national nostalgia and collective angst. A pilot study on strong leaders’ speeches from the 2017 French presidential election campaign first revealed that both conservative and progressive strong leaders use the status threat narrative, albeit in another form. In four quantitative surveys conducted across France, Malaysia and Chile, we then found that national status threat predicted increased desire for both conservative and progressive strong leaders. In France and Chile, but not Malaysia, the underlying path was contingent on the type of leader, such that nostalgia predicted increased desire for a conservative but not a progressive strong leader. Although correlational, our data suggest that decline narratives might provide a fertile ground for the desire for diverse forms of strong leadership.
Exploring motivational drivers for English language learning in Greek prisons
Authors: Christoforou Dimitra , Giannakou Aretousa , Georgiou Georgios P.
Published: July 2024

In adult education, understanding the dynamics of motivation among incarcerated individuals to attend English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes is crucial for effective educational programming, successful rehabilitation, and recidivism reduction efforts. The present study, focusing on Greek prisons, investigates two key aspects: a) the influence of sociodemographic factors (marital status, age, gender, and occupation previous to sentence) on inmates’ motivation to attend EFL classes and b) the relative prevalence of intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors driving inmates to attend EFL classes. Grounded in theories of foreign language learning motivation, the study employed quantitative methods with a large sample of 400 adult inmates enrolled in English classes at Second Chance Schools across all Greek prisons. The findings reveal that marital status, age, gender, and previous occupation are factors that significantly impact inmates’ motivation to attend EFL classes, with female inmates demonstrating higher motivation than their male counterparts. Notably, the study highlights the predominance of extrinsic motivation among inmates, with the desire to make their families proud being the most highly rated motivational driver.
Elder Abuse in Older Adults With Dementia: Protective Factors and Adverse Effects
Authors: Wei Wenxing , Balser Sarah , Nguyen Ann W. , Qin Weidi
Published: July 2024

With the rapid increase in the aging population, more attention has been paid to studying older adults with dementia. Despite the fact that older adults with dementia are more likely to be abused compared to their cognitively intact counterparts, little attention has been paid to abuse within this population. This systematic review, conducted using the PRISMA model, aims to critically examine, evaluate, and synthesize literature on protective factors and adverse effects of elder abuse by informal caregivers among individuals with dementia. A search was undertaken using the Ageline, Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases for peer-reviewed articles published in English up to June 2023. A total of 291 articles were identified by the systematic search, and 8 articles were included in the review. The results showed that protective factors related to elder abuse are mainly examined at a perpetrator level, including caregiver-related, relational, and contextual factors. Adverse effects, specifically an increased risk of various medical conditions and poor medication adherence, were identified but less frequently discussed. The findings indicated future directions for practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to better serve older adults with dementia and their caregivers.
Histamine H4 receptor and TRPV1 mediate itch induced by cadaverine, a metabolite of the microbiome
Authors: Sun Shi-Yu , Yin Xi , Ma Jun-Yi , Wang Xue-Long , Xu Xue-Mei , Wu Jing-Ni , Zhang Cheng-Wei , Lu Ying , Liu Tong , Zhang Li , Kang Pei-Pei , Wu Bin , Zhou Guo-Kun
Published: July 2024

Cadaverine is an endogenous metabolite produced by the gut microbiome with various activity in physiological and pathological conditions. However, whether cadaverine regulates pain or itch remains unclear. In this study, we first found that cadaverine may bind to histamine 4 receptor (H4R) with higher docking energy score using molecular docking simulations, suggesting cadaverine may act as an endogenous ligand for H4R. We subsequently found intradermal injection of cadaverine into the nape or cheek of mice induces a dose-dependent scratching response in mice, which was suppressed by a selective H4R antagonist JNJ-7777120, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) antagonist capsazepine and PLC inhibitor U73122, but not H1R antagonist or TRPA1 antagonist or TRPV4 antagonist. Consistently, cadaverine-induced itch was abolished in Trpv1 −/− but not Trpa1 −/− mice. Pharmacological analysis indicated that mast cells and opioid receptors were also involved in cadaverine-induced itch in mice. scRNA-Seq data analysis showed that H4R and TRPV1 are mainly co-expressed on NP2, NP3 and PEP1 DRG neurons. Calcium imaging analysis showed that cadaverine perfusion enhanced calcium influx in the dissociated dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, which was suppressed by JNJ-7777120 and capsazepine, as well as in the DRG neurons from Trpv1 −/− mice. Patch-clamp recordings found that cadaverine perfusion significantly increased the excitability of small diameter DRG neurons, and JNJ-7777120 abolished this effect, indicating involvement of H4R. Together, these results provide evidences that cadaverine is a novel endogenous pruritogens, which activates H4R/TRPV1 signaling pathways in the primary sensory neurons.
Analyzing Substance Levels and Pain Perception in Painless Labor: The Impact of Spinal Epidural Analgesia
Authors: Agnesha Fahmi , Solikhah Eti Nurwening , Sari Djayanti , Ainunnisa Rianza
Published: July 2024

Background:
Inflammation affects labor by influencing contractions and dilation. Pain, often linked to tissue ischemia, involves mediators like nitric oxide (NO), TNF-α, and substance P (SP). Neuraxial analgesia, including combined spinal epidural analgesia (SEA) with levobupivacaine, is preferred for its effectiveness and minimal side effects in painless labor. Understanding the impact of painless labor techniques on biomolecular processes such as NO, TNF-α, and substance P levels is crucial for improving pain management strategies. This study investigates these effects in parturients undergoing SEA with levobupivacaine, contributing to the development of novel pain medications and enhancing obstetric care.
Methods:
This experimental study, conducted at a General Hospital in Indonesia, involved 60 expectant mothers in labor or in the third trimester, expected to give birth vaginally at Permata Hati Metro Hospital. Blood serum was used for analysis, and serum NO, TNF-α, and SP levels were assessed using ELISA kit.
Results:
There's a significant decrease in NO levels before and post-treatment in the SEA group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, no significant difference in TNF-α levels was observed between groups before and after treatment (p > 0.05). Additionally, there was no significant difference in SP levels between groups before treatment, but a significant difference was seen after treatment (p < 0.05). SEA significantly reduced labor pain compared to the control group (P < 0.05), with notable improvements in vital signs and APGAR scores, while also shortening labor duration (P < 0.001).
Conclusion:
In conclusion, SEA with levobupivacaine during painless labor reduces NO levels significantly and shows a trend of decreasing TNF-α and substance P levels, although not statistically significant, with clinical benefits for both patients and babies.
Physical inactivity among American single-female caregivers: An analysis of the 2020 behavioral risk factor surveillance system
Authors: Hoch Johanna M , Dlugonski Deirdre , Slone Stacey , Hogg-Graham Rachel , Jones Maureen
Published: July 2024

Background:

Many adults in the United States do not reach the recommended levels of activity needed for health benefits. Single-female caregivers present a unique and vulnerable population that is often less active than their partnered peers or single-male caregivers.

Objective:

The primary objective of this cross-sectional investigation was to identify the prevalence of physical inactivity in single-family, female-led households and determine differences in personal factors and social characteristics between physically active and not physically active single-female caregivers. A secondary objective was to examine associations among the social characteristic variables and physical inactivity in single-female caregiver households. Finally, we examined the odds single-female caregivers who are physically inactive reported chronic health conditions.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey design.

Methods:

We used the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data. Participants were selected based on pre-determined criteria for inclusion.

Results:

There was a 39.3% prevalence of physical inactivity among single-female caregivers in the sample. Single-female caregivers who were physically inactive had greater odds of having a history of multiple chronic health conditions.

Conclusion:

Healthcare providers and other community stakeholders should explore existing physical activity promotion strategies to increase physical activity in single-female caregivers. Future research should employ more rigorous, prospective research designs to determine if these chronic conditions and various social characteristics are caused by physical inactivity.
Comparing open and closed cell stents in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: A comprehensive meta-analysis of clinical outcomes
Authors: Batista Sávio , Palavani Lucca B , Verly Gabriel , Ferreira Marcio Yuri , Sanches João Pedro Bittar , Silva Guilherme Melo , Pinheiro Agostinho C , Almeida Filho José Alberto
Published: July 2024

Background: Open cell stents (OC) and closed cell stents (CC) each offer unique advantages and potential drawbacks in the context of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) treatment. We aim to investigate the safety and efficacy of using OC and CC for IIH.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases following the PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies included ≥4 patients with IIH treated by OC or CC. Primary outcomes were headache, visual acuity, and papilledema status before and after the procedure. Additionally, failure rate, minor complications, major complications, and total complications were assessed. Pooled analysis of the OC group and CC group were done separately and then compared.

Results: Twenty-four studies were included. Of these, 20 reported on OC and 6 reported on CC. Pooled analysis of failure rate was 8% (4%–12%) in OC and 5% (0%–11%) in CC. For headache improvement rate: 78% (70%–86%) in OC and 81% (66%–69%) in CC. For visual acuity improvement: 78% (65%–92%) in OC and 76% (29%–100%) in CC. For papilledema improvement: 88% (77%–98%) in OC and 82% (67%–98%) in CC. For minor complications: 0% (0%–1%) in OC and 0% (0%–2%) in CC. For major complications: 0% (0%–1%) in OC and 2% (0%–6%) in CC. Total complications: 0% (0%–1%) in OC and 2% (0%–6%) in CC.

Conclusion: Low failure and complication rates were found in both OC and CC, with no significant difference between them in effectiveness. The CC showed a slight but significant increase in major and total complications compared to the OC. Additionally, a subtle yet significantly lower failure rate was identified in the CC.
Factors Affecting Auditor Change Decisions: The Case of United Kingdom
Authors: Mattar Dorine , Khoury Rim El , Chaanine Melissa
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the impact of firms’ characteristics and corporate governance on the auditor change decisions using a logistic regression. The sample includes all U.K. companies listed on the London Stock Exchange that have changed their auditors between March 2013 and February 2018. The objectives are two-fold: (a) investigating the antecedents of audit change decision in general and (b) exploring the drivers of the decision to change auditors to a big 4. Results show that board independence, executive board members diversity and board members compensation are negatively related to auditor change decision, whereas return on assets and size are positively related to such decision. Moving to the second objective, results support the positive role of the company’s size in the choice of a big 4 auditor. The findings help stakeholders better understand the auditor change context prior to any strategic decision. Fruitful implications are highlighted too.
Health-Promoting Benefits of Exercise Awareness and Exercise Behavior in Older Adults: An Exercise Program Intervention
Authors: Huang Wei-Yang , Wu Cheng-En
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to use the aerobic exercise program as an intervention to understand exercise awareness and exercise behavior in older adults and to predict health promotion. This study recruited 120 healthy older adults (60 males and 60 females) over 65 years old (average male age 72.15 ± 3.53 years, female average age 71.64 ± 3.97 years), males and females were randomly assigned to the experimental group, and the control group (30 males, 30 females). The experimental group underwent an “aerobic fitness exercise program” for 8 week, while the control group underwent 8 weeks of daily life. All participants were first surveyed on background variables. At the beginning and end of the experiment, the experimental group and control group of males and females had to undergo the senior fitness test (SFT), the Elderly Exercise Awareness and Exercise Behavior Scale (EAEBI) and the Elderly Health Promotion Inventory (HPI) survey. The results of the study showed that male Cohen’s d = .326, and female Cohen’s d = .371, both showed small effects; related power analysis male effect size (es) = 0.2, female effect size (es) = 0.1, showed that the participants were homogeneous, the mean ages of males and females of the Q-Q plot showed normality. The SFT analysis of the experimental group and the control group found that Int-2, Int-1, Con-1, and Con-2 were significantly different between males and females. The EAEBI scale analysis found that the male experimental group had the largest difference in awareness effect ( F = 9.47, p < .05), and the female experimental group had the largest difference in exercise cognition ( F = 11.35, p < .05). HPI scale analysis found that the male experimental group had the largest difference in physical activity ( F = 14.83, p < .05), and the female experimental group had the largest difference in social support ( F = 13.19, p < .05). Finally, the intervention measures of aerobic fitness exercise program could positively affect the exercise perceived and exercise behavior of the older adults, and had positive effects on health promotion. This study has practical significance for an aging society. Promoting health through regular exercise can also reduce medical resources, which is the subject of effective preventive medicine.