bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rural Surgery Preparedness After Graduation From a Surgical Residency
Authors: Nadaud Jack M. , Heidel R. Eric , Daley Brian J.
Published: July 2024

Background

General surgeons in rural communities face unique challenges due to broad scopes of practice with limited support and difficulties providing training. In 1998, this academic medical center initiated a rural program consisting of senior level rotations in rural communities. We surveyed past residents to determine scope of practice, level of preparedness, and recommendations.

Methods

The survey was sent to n = 89 residents and n = 34 surveys were completed. Of those, 85% took part in the rural program, 23.5% practice in a zip code defined as rural by HRSA, and 53% had fellowship training most commonly vascular (n = 5), critical care (n = 5), cardiothoracic (n = 3), and MIS (n = 3). Most common procedures reported were MIS (64.7%), vascular (38.2%), cardiothoracic (26.5%), hepatobiliary (23.5%), and pediatric (23.5%).

Results

Over 97% of participants were satisfied/very satisfied with their overall program, and 94% were satisfied/very satisfied with their preparedness for rural surgery. When prompted with, “A general surgery program must have some type of rural specific specialized curriculum and extended rotations to facilitate a career path in rural general surgery,” 41.2% responded strongly agree, 47.1% agree, and 11.8% neutral. Recommendations for bolstering a rural program included urology (59%), MIS (59%), vascular (56%), OBGYN (47%), and pediatrics (38%). Regarding non-surgical education, residents felt underprepared for billing (79.4%) and administration (50.0%).

Discussion

Although satisfaction scores were high, improvements to better prepare surgeons for rural practice include increasing residents’ exposure and training in OBGYN, MIS, vascular, urology, and billing and administration. These results should direct programs to prepare surgeons for effective rural practice.
Effect of Alvimopan on Postoperative Ileus and Length of Hospital Stay in Patients Undergoing Bowel Resection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Murtaza Rashid , Clarke Olivia , Sivakanthan Tharshan , Al-Sarireh Hashim , Al-Sarireh Ahmad , Raza Muhammad Musa , Navid Ahmad Zia , Ali Baqar , Hajibandeh Shahin , Hajibandeh Shahab
Published: July 2024

Aims

The aim is to investigate the effect of alvimopan on postoperative ileus and length of hospital stay in patients undergoing bowel resection.

Methods

The PRISMA statement standards were followed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis. The available literature was searched to identify all studies comparing alvimopan with no alvimopan in patients undergoing bowel resection. Postoperative ileus and length of hospital stay were the primary outcomes, and time to first bowel motion was the secondary outcome. Random-effects modeling was applied for analyses.

Results

Analysis of 94 833 patients from 26 studies showed that alvimopan was associated with lower risk of postoperative ileus (OR: .57, 95% CI .48 to .67, P <.00001; high GRADE certainty), shorter length of hospital stay (MD: −1.08 day, 95% CI −1.36 to −.81, P < .00001; moderate GRADE certainty), and shorter time to first bowel motion (MD: −.43 day, 95% CI −.58 to −.28, P < .00001; moderate GRADE certainty). Separate analyses of randomized controlled trials and observational studies showed similar findings. Subgroup analyses suggested consistent findings in patients undergoing elective bowel resection, emergency bowel resection, and open surgery; however, alvimopan did not improve the outcomes in patients undergoing minimally invasive surgery.

Conclusion

Robust evidence supports the routine use of alvimopan in patients undergoing open bowel resection as indicated by lower risk of postoperative ileus and shorter length of hospital stay. We support incorporation of alvimopan into enhanced recovery after surgery programs for the procedures involving open bowel resection. The role of alvimopan in minimally invasive bowel resection needs more research.
Pathways to Resilience: Exploring Post-Traumatic Growth in the Wake of Drug-Related Deaths
Authors: Jean-Berluche Ducel
Published: July 2024

This review examines Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) in the aftermath of Drug-Related Deaths (DRDs) amid a public health crisis underscored by an increase in overdose fatalities. It examines grief and unique challenges confronting those bereaved by DRDs, such as stigmatization, and synthesizes existing literature to elucidate pathways toward resilience and growth. Fundamental mechanisms facilitating PTG, including reframing loss, engaging in open dialogues with support, and cultivating self-compassion and hope, are highlighted, demonstrating the transformative potential of navigating bereavement with supportive communication and personal development. The review also addresses limitations within current research, such as focusing on specific bereaved populations, which may impact the generalizability of findings. Recommendations for future research include longitudinal studies and broader demographic inclusion to understand and support individuals grieving a DRD. Advocating for holistic, growth-oriented bereavement care models, this review underscores the necessity of comprehensive approaches to facilitate healing and growth in the wake of DRDs.
The Quality of Interpersonal Relationships, Intrusive and Deliberate Rumination and Adjustment to the Death of a Spouse
Authors: Ludwikowska-Świeboda Karolina , Sekowski Marcin
Published: July 2024

The aim of the presented study was to gain a better understanding of relationships between the pre-loss quality of marriage, global attachment style, rumination, the severity of complicated grief and the level of posttraumatic growth among widowed individuals. After the researchers obtained the consent of the ethics board to conduct the study, they examined widowed individuals ( n = 152) using the Experiences in Close Relationships – Revised, the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, the Event Related Rumination Inventory, the Inventory of Complicated Grief, and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. Results show a positive relationship between attachment anxiety and complicated grief via intrusive rumination, as well as a positive relationship between attachment anxiety and posttraumatic growth via intrusive and deliberate rumination. Results also show that the greater the attachment avoidance the higher the severity of complicated grief, but only in the case of perceived low quality of the marriage. The presented research provides insight into the complex associations between the quality of interpersonal relationships, rumination and adjustment to loss among individuals who experienced the death of a spouse.
Attitudes Toward Dating Violence, Social Impact, and Alexithymia in University Students: A Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Şener Yeter , Günaydın Yurdagül
Published: July 2024

This research was conducted to determine the effects of social impact and alexithymia on attitudes toward dating violence. Additionally, the interaction between them was examined. In this context, the effect of social impact on alexithymia was also examined. In addition, this research tried to determine whether alexithymia has a mediating role between social impact and attitudes toward dating violence. The study was descriptive and cross-sectional. There was a total of 582 participants in the study. The study used the Sociodemographic Questionnaire Form, Social Impact Scale (SIS), 20-Item Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and Dating Violence Scale (DVS) for data collection. The study used the descriptive statistics, spearman correlation analysis and structural equation modeling in the evaluation of the data. Participants’ SIS scores had a statistically significant and positive correlation with their TAS-20 scores (p < .01), while they had a statistically significant and negative correlation with their DVS scores (p < .01). In addition, a statistically significant and negative correlation was found between TAS-20 scores and DVS scores (p < .01). SIS scores directly affected the TAS-20 (effect value = 0.481; p = .001) and DVS scores (effect value = −0.405; p = .001). Similarly, the TAS-20 scores had a direct effect on the DVS scores (effect value = −0.261; p = .008). In addition to this direct effect of TAS-20 scores, there was a significant mediator effect between the SIS scores and DVS scores (effect value = −0.126; p = .008). In this study, it was established that social impact effects both alexithymia and attitudes toward dating violence, and moreover, alexithymia influences attitudes toward dating violence. Additionally, it was identified that alexithymia serves as a mediator in the relationship between social impact and attitudes toward dating violence.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Maternal, Neonatal, and Child Healthcare in Moroccan Hospitals and SDG 3: Using Two-Stage Data Envelopment Analysis and Tobit Regression
Authors: Er-Rays Youssef , M’dioud Meriem
Published: July 2024

Maternal, neonatal, and child health play crucial roles in achieving the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2030, particularly in promoting health and wellbeing. However, maternal, neonatal, and child services in Moroccan public hospitals face challenges, particularly concerning mortality rates and inefficient resource allocation, which hinder optimal outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the operational effectiveness of 76 neonatal and child health services networks (MNCSN) within Moroccan public hospitals. Using Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), we assessed technical efficiency (TE) employing both Variable Returns to Scale for inputs (VRS-I) and outputs (VRS-O) orientation. Additionally, the Tobit method (TM) was utilized to explore factors influencing inefficiency, with hospital, doctor, and paramedical staff considered as inputs, and admissions, cesarean interventions, functional capacity, and hospitalization days as outputs. Our findings revealed that VRS-I exhibited a higher average TE score of 0.76 compared to VRS-O (0.23). Notably, the Casablanca-Anfa MNCSN received the highest referrals (30) under VRS-I, followed by the Khemisset MNCSN (24). In contrast, under VRS-O, Ben Msick, Rabat, and Mediouna MNCSN each had three peers, with 71, 22, and 17 references, respectively. Moreover, the average Malmquist Index under VRS-I indicated a 7.7% increase in productivity over the 9-year study period, while under VRS-O, the average Malmquist Index decreased by 8.7%. Furthermore, doctors and functional bed capacity received the highest Tobit model score of 0.01, followed by hospitalization days and cesarean sections. This study underscores the imperative for policymakers to strategically prioritize input factors to enhance efficiency and ensure optimal maternal, neonatal, and child healthcare outcomes.
Disparities in COVID-19-Related Mortality Among Older Adults With Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias: Variations Over Time
Authors: Qin Qiuyuan , Temkin-Greener Helena , Veazie Peter , Makineni Rajesh , Cai Shubing
Published: July 2024

Older adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) had a high risk of COVID-19-related mortality. Racial and ethnic minorities were disproportionally impacted by the pandemic. The variations in disparities, including racial and ethnic disparities and disparities across communities, in COVID-19-related mortality across the different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic among the ADRD population are unknown. This observational study estimated linear probability models for community-dwelling older adults with ADRD who were diagnosed with COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021 using multiple national data (e.g., Medicare data), accounting for individual and community characteristics. Disparities in 30-day mortality were compared between 2020 and 2021. The socioeconomic disparity in COVID-19-related mortality across communities became insignificant during the later stage of the pandemic, ethnic differences in COVID-19-related mortality decreased but persisted, and racial disparity remained largely unchanged. The study provides insights into interventions to mitigate lingering disparities in health outcomes among the vulnerable population.
Variations in Benefits of Intergenerational Tutoring in the “New Normal”
Authors: Sun Peter C. , Morrow-Howell Nancy , Click Mary V.
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the benefits and challenges of intergenerational tutoring in a post-pandemic context. We explored how the benefits of intergenerational tutoring vary among subgroups of volunteers—first-time tutors, male tutors, tutors who are caregivers, and tutors with moderate or severe loneliness. Older adult tutors ( N = 319) were surveyed before and after the 2021–2022 school year, and the data were analyzed with structural equation multivariate regression and thematic analysis. Results indicated that while public health measures like mask-wearing posed challenges for some tutors, there were positive outcomes for tutors, especially first-time tutors, who experienced more health and well-being benefits, and tutors who are caregivers, who experienced improved civic attitudes towards public education. These results can help programs attract subgroups of volunteers who are likely to benefit the most, as well as attend to the unique challenges of pandemic-related policies.
Public Interest in Research on Aging: Analysis of Altmetric Attention Scores Over 5 Years
Authors: Ng Reuben , Indran Nicole
Published: July 2024

This study pinpoints the areas in gerontological research that have commanded the most public attention as scored by Altmetric. We collected 12,740 outputs published in gerontological journals over 5 years from 2017 to 2022. Next, we identified the top 5% of outputs with the highest Altmetric Attention Scores. After removing duplicate publications and those without an abstract, 588 outputs remained. Our content analysis of the abstracts was conducted deductively and inductively. Theme 1 (50%; N = 293) revolved around “Health and Well-Being” (Theme 1). Theme 2 (28%; N = 164) was about “Health Services, Interventions and Innovations.” Theme 3 was about “Informal and Long-Term Care” (13%; N = 80). Theme 4 focused on “Structural Inequalities” affecting older adults (9%; N = 51). Gerontologists should strengthen collaboration with other stakeholders to better engage the public across different age-related issues. These partnerships will enable the creation of initiatives that better serve the needs of aging populations.
Changes in Emergency Department and Inpatient Encounters for Falls after the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lach Helen W. , Salas Joanne , Scherrer Jeffery F.
Published: July 2024

Objective. This study investigates changes in clinical encounters due to falls before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods. De-identified health record data from a large mid-western health system was used to examine the frequency of emergency department (ED) and inpatient (IP) encounters for falls by month among adults age 50+ ( N = 485, 886 patients) using joinpoint regression analysis. Also, overall rates before and during the pandemic were compared using log-binomial models. Results. Fall rates increased following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic for IP encounters but not for ED encounters. There were no differences by age, gender, race, or nSES. Monthly IP fall rates increased by 0.68% per month both before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion. Pandemics may occur in the future, and interventions are needed to prevent falls in older adults during the next public health emergency.
Preparation, characterization, and liver targeting evaluation of a novel sustained-release brucine self-assembled micelle mediated by glycyrrhetinic acid
Authors: Guan Qingxia , Yang Han , Xia Zhaorui , Li Xiuyan , Zhang Yue , Lin Zeyu , Sun Shaung , Yang Zhixin , Zhou Xiaoying , Lv Shaowa , Wang Yanhong
Published: July 2024

Background: Cancer is a serious threat to human life, health and social development. In recent years, nanomicelles, as an emerging drug carrier material, have gradually entered people’s field of vision because of their advantages of improving bioavailability, maintaining drug levels, reducing systemic side effects and increasing drug accumulation at target sites. Methods: In this study, B-GPSG nano-micelles were prepared by film dispersion hydration method using brucine as model drug and glycyrrhetinic acid-polyethylene glycol-3-methylene glycol-dithiodipropionic acid-glycerol monostearate polymer as nano-carrier. The preparation process, characterization, drug release in vitro, pharmacokinetics and liver targeting were investigated. Results: The results showed that the range of particle size, polydispersion index and Zeta potential were 102.7 ± 1.09 nm, 0.201 ± 0.02 and −24.5 ± 0.19 mV respectively. The entrapment efficiency and drug loading were 83.79 ± 2.13% and 12.56 ± 0.09%, respectively. The drug release experiments in vitro and pharmacokinetic experiments showed that it had obvious sustained release effect. For pharmacokinetics study, it shows that both the B-GPSG solution group and the B-PSG solution group changed the metabolic kinetic parameters of brucine, but the B-GPSG solution group had a better effect. Compared with the B-PSG solution group, the drug was more prolonged in rats. The half-life in the body and the retention time in the body of B-GPSG are more helpful to improve the bioavailability of the drug and play a long-term effect. The tail vein injection results of mice indicate that B-GPSG can target and accumulate brucine in the liver without affecting other key organs. Cell uptake experiments and tissue distribution experiments in vivo show that glycyrrhetinic acid modified nano-micelles can increase the accumulation of brucine in hepatocytes, has a good liver targeting effect, and can be used as a new preparation for the treatment of liver cancer. Conclusion: The B-SPSG prepared in this experiment can provide a new treatment method and research idea for the treatment of liver cancer.
Shape memory behaviour of nanoparticle reinforced trans-1,4-polyisoprene and polystyrene nanocomposites—Aspects and advancements
Authors: Kausar Ayesha
Published: July 2024

Trans-1,4-polyisoprene (a thermoplastic crystalline polymer) and polystyrene (an amorphous or semicrystalline polymer) have been frequently used as important matrix materials for the formation of nanocomposites. Trans-1,4-polyisoprene has crystallinity and toughness properties, whereas polystyrene has transparent and brittle nature. These matrices have revealed shape memory effects through the inclusion of carbon nanoparticles like graphene and carbon nanotube, as well as inorganic nanoparticles like titania, silica, and metal nanoparticles. The nanoparticle addition has been found to induce shape changes as well as microstructural and physical property alterations in the matrices. This state-of-the art review article reports on the stimuli responsiveness of important categories of trans-1,4-polyisoprene and polystyrene based nanocomposites. These nanomaterials revealed important thermal, electric, and radiation induced responses. High performance shape memory effects have been observed depending upon the nanoparticle type, contents, and interactions with the polymer network. With the carbon nanoparticles like carbon nanotube, graphene, or carbon black, trans-1,4-polyisoprene revealed high shape recovery responses of 95%–99%. The nanocomposites of copolymers or blends of trans-1,4-polyisoprene also depicted the shape recovery of up to 100%. The shape memory nanocomposites of polystyrene and its blends and copolymers with different types of nanoparticles exhibited effective thermo responsive and electro active shape memory behavior. Consequently, the effective shape memory effects have been attributed to the homogeneous nanoparticle dispersion as well as the network formation for an active polymer chain switching.
Online Harassment: The Mediating and Moderating Role of Thoughtfully Reflective Decision-Making
Authors: Howell C. Jordan , Kabiri Saeed , Wang Fangzhou , Muniz Caitlyn N. , Kamar Eden , Sharepour Mahmoud , Cochran John , Shadmanfaat Seyyedeh Masoomeh (Shamila)
Published: July 2024

The current study employs a construct from the criminological literature, thoughtfully reflective decision-making (TRDM), to understand cyber offenders’ decision-making and offer relevant insights to prevent online harassment. Using a sample of Iranian high school students ( N = 366), we employ OLS and SEM to test whether and how TRDM, perceived deterrence, and prior victimization influence the most common forms of online harassment: cyberbullying and cyberstalking. Findings demonstrate cyberbullying and cyberstalking victimization increase engagement in offending behavior while participants’ fear of sanction reduces engagement in both cyberbullying and cyberstalking perpetration. Notably, results demonstrate that TRDM has a direct, mediating, and moderating effect on both forms of offending. TRDM also has an indirect effect on cyberbullying and cyberstalking perpetration through victimization and participants’ perceptions of sanction. Unlike contemporary, pre-dispositional theories of crime, TRDM is dynamic and can be improved via educational programming. We posit that current cyber hygiene campaigns should include elements aimed to improve individuals’ cognitive decision-making capabilities. Guided by theory, and based on the results of the current study, this translational approach could prevent victimization while simultaneously improving other elements of the participants’ life.
Sociodemographic and Clinical Characteristics of Older Adults With Suicide-Related Emergency Department Presentations
Authors: Gysin-Maillart Anja , Bettschen David , Annaheim Pascale , Brogna Stella , Walther Sebastian , Waern Margda , Müller Martin , Exadaktylos Aristomenis K. , Klukowska-Rötzler Jolanta
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To identify characteristics of older adult emergency department (ED) patients aged ≥65 with suicidal ideation and/or behavior.

Methods

A single center retrospective chart review analyzed 392 patients (≥65) with suicidal ideation and/or behavior (2013–2019). Comprehensive full-text searches were used. Subgroup analyses for age and gender were conducted.

Results

Depressive disorder was documented in 50% of cases. Notably, 54% of all women were prescribed antidepressants, compared to only 31% of men. Most patients had general medical conditions (74.5%) and chronic multimorbidity (71.2%). Social stress affected 40.1%; 35.7% were intoxicated upon presentation. Alcohol abuse was more common in the 65–74 age group, while dementia impacted 20% of those ≥75. Men had a six-fold higher 30-day post-discharge mortality.

Discussion

Older ED patients with suicidal ideation and/or behavior exhibit typical characteristics. The dementia prevalence suggests tailored care for those ≥75, and the heightened post-discharge mortality rate in older men requires further research.
COVID-19 Public Health Restrictions and New Mothers’ Mental Health: A Qualitative Scoping Review
Authors: Abdul-Fatah Ammanie , Bezanson Michelle , Lopez Steven Sebastian , Tippins Emily , Jones Sarah , MacDonald Heather , Ysseldyk Renate
Published: July 2024

Public health restrictions to protect physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic had unintended effects on mental health, which may have disproportionately affected some potentially vulnerable groups. This scoping review of qualitative research provides a narrative synthesis of new mothers’ perspectives on their mental health during COVID-19 pandemic restrictions through pregnancy to the postpartum period. Database searches in PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO sought primary research studies published until February 2023, which focused on new mothers’ self-perceived mental health during the pandemic ( N = 55). Our synthesis found that new mothers’ mental health was impacted by general public health restrictions resulting in isolation from family and friends, a lack of community support, and impacts on the immediate family. However, public health restrictions specific to maternal and infant healthcare were most often found to negatively impact maternal mental health, namely, hospital policies prohibiting the presence of birthing partners and in-person care for their infants. This review of qualitative research adds depth to previous reviews that have solely examined the quantitative associations between COVID-19 public health restrictions and new mothers’ mental health. Here, our review demonstrates the array of adverse impacts of COVID-19 public health restrictions on new mothers’ mental health throughout pregnancy into the postpartum period, as reported by new mothers. These findings may be beneficial for policy makers in future public health emergency planning when evaluating the impacts and unintended consequences of public health restrictions on new mothers.
Exploring the Acceptability and Cost-Effectiveness of Plastic Bottle Waste Bricks in Nigeria’s Construction Sector: A Stakeholder Perspective
Authors: Solaja Oludele M. , Onafeso Olumide D. , Adelowokan Oluwaseyi A. , Dina Adeolu O. , Hassan Adegbayi M. , Aluko-Arowolo Olusola S. , Adeyemi Olufemi O. , Adetola Obatunde B.
Published: July 2024

This study addresses a significant research gap by investigating the acceptability and cost-effectiveness of plastic bottle waste (PBW) bricks in Nigeria’s construction sector. Despite their potential environmental and economic benefits, there is limited comprehensive research on the factors influencing PBW brick adoption in Nigeria. The study aims to fill this void by exploring the acceptability and cost-effectiveness of PBW bricks in Nigeria, utilizing economic cost, environmental use, and gratifications theories for theoretical explanations. Through a cross-sectional survey design and inferential statistical methods, the study reveals a growing recognition of PBW bricks’ environmental benefits, alongside identifying cost factors and transportation costs as significant determinants of PBW brick production costs. These findings contribute valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers interested in promoting sustainable construction practices in Nigeria.
Survival Status and Predictors of Mortality Among Children Admitted With Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia at Cancer Treatment Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Sifer Samuel Dessu , Solomon Milkiyas
Published: July 2024

Background

Acute lymphocytic leukemia is a cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow and is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among children. In Ethiopia, it represents the predominant form of childhood leukemia, comprising approximately 80% of cases and serving as a leading cause of childhood cancer-related deaths. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the survival status and factors that may predict mortality in children admitted with acute lymphocytic leukemia at cancer treatment hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

A retrospective follow-up study was conducted at cancer treatment hospitals in Addis Ababa, focusing on children diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. The investigation covered records from January 1, 2017, to December 30, 2023, encompassing a sample of 230 study records. Variables with a P-value below 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were selected for entry into the multivariable analysis. Subsequently, variables demonstrating a P-value less than 0.05 in the multivariable Cox proportional hazards model were deemed statistically significant.

Results

The cumulative proportion of survival was 98.3% (95%CI: 94.8, 99.5), 89.2% (95%CI: 82.0, 93.6), and 24.1% (95%CI: 8.43, 44.1) at the end of the 20th, 40th, and 60th month, respectively. The incidence rate of mortality among cohort of children admitted with acute lymphocytic leukemia was 0.45 per 100 child months. History of relapse (AHR: 2.48; 95%CI: 1.01, 6.08) and infection (AHR: 2.34; 95%CI: 1.03, 5.31) were independent predictors of mortality among children admitted with acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Conclusion

The likelihood of mortality increased in the later stages of follow-up for children admitted with acute lymphocytic leukemia, and the incidence density rate of mortality in this group was lower compared to previous reports from other regions. Furthermore, independent predictors of mortality among children with acute lymphocytic leukemia included a history of relapse and infection.
Enhancing thermal comfort assessment: A sensitivity study of PMV-PPD and adaptive models in an Algerian reference hotel across different climate zones
Authors: Kaihoul Ahmed , Pitzalis Efisio , Sriti Leila , Di Turi Silvia , Amraoui Khaoula
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the impact of design parameters on indoor thermal comfort in hotel buildings, using both PMV-PPD and adaptive models. The aim is to provide guidance for improvement in the energy performance and thermal comfort of the accommodation structures, providing analysis extended to the eight Algerian climate zones. The adopted methodology was applied to a reference building hotel in Ghardaïa, Algeria. The energy model was validated through in-situ measurements and then the analysis was extended through EnergyPlus dynamic simulations to assess the influence of 13 design parameters using sensitivity analysis. Results reveal that design temperatures on the hottest days ranged from 34.4°C to 39.3°C, despite external temperatures reaching 45°C. The PMV-PPD model was most affected by space density, ventilation rate, infiltration, ventilation schedules, roof design and azimuth. Conversely, the adaptive model was influenced primarily by ventilation rate, window-to-wall ratio, lighting, space density, ventilation schedules, glazing and azimuth. This study underscores the potential for optimising hotels’ design to enhance thermal comfort and has broader relevance for regions with similar climates to Algeria. The findings offer insights for creating more comfortable indoor environments and fostering sustainable building practices in challenging climates.
Understanding Legitimacy and Social Entrepreneurship - A Structured Literature Review
Authors: Huyler Debaro , McGill Craig M. , Rocco Tonette S.
Published: July 2024

This structured literature review explores the alignment and potential synergies between human resource development (HRD) and social entrepreneurship within the United States. The study’s guiding questions investigated how social entrepreneurship is characterized in scholarly articles and where HRD research and practice intersect with social entrepreneurship. Based on literature from 2006 to 2021, this study found that social entrepreneurship lacks cognitive legitimacy and is framed as (a) pragmatically legitimate, (b) at both individual and organizational levels, and (c) as a virtuous practice. Building on system theory, the study suggests that social entrepreneurship organizations are adaptive systems, and HRD professionals can support organizational strategies by practicing various processes, including skill development, ethical training, and ensuring personnel alignment with the organization’s social mission. However, research on social entrepreneurship in HRD is rare. The central contribution of this paper is to conceptualize how HRD can contribute to the advancement of social entrepreneurship.
Historic Town-Gown Partnerships: Planning, Race, and Power
Authors: Larsen Kristin , Redden Tyeshia , Dedenbach Laura , Frank Kathryn
Published: July 2024

Though previous studies examine university expansion and impacts on adjacent, often economically disenfranchised and segregated communities of color, most focus on large urban areas of the Midwest and Northeast following World War II (WWII). We assess the founding of a land grant university in a Southern, majority African American town and its subsequent direct and indirect community impacts. Our findings reveal the range of planning and land development tools deployed from that university’s founding through the early post-WWII period that reinforced racial displacement, disenfranchisement, and segregation. Understanding this legacy is essential to pursuing racial equity and remedying structural disparities.
Endovascular repair for infra-renal aortic aneurysms with supra-renal fixation endoprosthesis: Results and outcomes
Authors: Soares Rafael de Athayde , Amaro Kaline , Nasser Ana Isabel , Cury Marcus Vinícius Martins , Nakamura Edson Takamitsu , Pedrosa Keityane de Lima , Sacilotto Roberto
Published: July 2024

Objective

The main objective of this paper is to evaluate the outcomes regarding endoleaks, reinterventions, and death related to aneurysm complications in patients submitted to endovascular repair (EVAR) for abdominal aortoiliac aneurysm (AAA) using Endurant II (Medtronic) and Zenith Flex (Cook) endografts.

Methods

This was a prospective, consecutive cohort study of patients with AAA who underwent EVAR with the use of Endurant II stent graft and Zenith Flex endograft.

Results

A total of 156 patients submitted to EVAR were evaluated. The perioperative mortality was 5.1%, 8 patients. The median clinical follow-up period was 760 ± 80 days. There were 28 patients (17.9%) submitted to urgent repair of the aneurysm (symptomatic expansion or rupture) and 128 patients (82.1%) submitted to elective repair. There were 36 cases (23.1%) of later endoleak and most of them are Type II endoleaks (21 patients, 13.4%). There were 12 cases of Type I endoleak. Moreover, regarding limb graft occlusion (LGO), there were 9 patients (5.8%). The overall survival rate in Kaplan–Meier analysis at 720 days was 84.8% in the total cohort. The freedom from reintervention rate in Kaplan–Meier analysis at 720 days was 92.7% in the total cohort. The linear regression analysis for survival rates showed that chronic kidney disease ( p = .03; hazard ratio (HR) = 2.82, CI = 1.07–4.44) was the only factor related to poorer survival rates in both univariate and multivariate analyses. The linear regression analysis showed that the presence of endoleaks ( p < .001, HR = 6.69, CI = 2.26–8.48) and limb graft occlusion ( p < .001, HR = 8.02, CI = 1.60–9.99) were related to reintervention in both univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusion

In this present study, supra-renal fixation endograft devices were safe and efficient in treating AAA, with satisfactory results and no renal compromise. The linear regression analysis showed that the presence of endoleaks and limb graft occlusion were related to higher reintervention rates in both univariate and multivariate analyses.
Social assets and the career intent of teachers serving students with extensive support needs
Authors: Scott LaRon A. , Gansle Kristin A. , Layden Selena J. , Thoma Colleen A.
Published: July 2024

Decades of research indicate social support is vital for retaining teachers. However, little is known about social support for teachers serving students with extensive support needs. The purpose of this study was to explore whether collective social assets (administrative support, colleague support, paraeducator support, school culture) were associated with retaining special education teachers (SETs) who serve students with extensive support needs (e.g., intellectual disability, autism). Stepwise regression analyses and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to analyze survey data from SETs across the United States. Results showed that positive social supports are critical, and teachers serving students with autism reported the highest levels of social support in three of the four social assets categories. Implications for future research and practice are discussed, as well as a need to promote and better understand positive school culture as this variable weighed heavily across SETs.
A high explosive blast simulator
Authors: Rudshaug Jonas , Grue Tormod , Elveli Benjamin Stavnar
Published: July 2024

Window facades are heavily used in modern design. To ensure that the facade can withstand sufficiently large blast loads, experimental evaluation of the entire facade is crucial. In this study, we present the High Explosive Blast Simulator (HEBSim), an outdoors modular explosive-driven blast simulator with a large cross-section designed for real-size blast testing of glass facades. To evaluate the performance of HEBSim, we performed two test series, one with a rigid steel plate component and one with deformable laminated glass window components. Pressure sensors were used to measure the overpressure histories for both test series and deformation data was gathered using three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) for the window component tests. The test series demonstrated that HEBSim generates planar and repeatable blast load profiles in line with explosive pressure resistance (EPR) classifications for various charge masses. In addition, the window component test series illustrated the stochastic fracture behavior of glass. Based on the presented data, HEBSim is found suitable for blast testing of large glass facades.
A political economy of communication analysis of PR News: Intern status, skills, and conflict within the public relations industry
Authors: Giomboni Joseph
Published: July 2024

A textual analysis of PR News was conducted to understand the evolution of internship programs and explore how the industry articulates, rationalizes, and positions these workers as valuable sources of labor. This study featured articles about interns who were primarily participating in internships at colleges and universities in a U.S. context to consider the range of positions and professional development within the PR industry. A political economy of communication framework provides insights into potential exploitative working conditions and the dynamic power relationships between prospective workers and the organization. This relationship is constructed through trade publication texts that illustrate best practices for internship programs. In turn, interns may grant consent to potentially exploitative precarious work arrangements based on the specific conditions and perceived benefits at the worksite. This study argues that the PR industry began recruiting paid talent and developing skillsets until the economic recession led to a cost-benefit analysis of full-time entry-level workers. In addition, PR News discourses have the potential to create interoffice conflict when emerging workers adopt neoliberal motives to secure full-time employment but are confronted with internship programs rooted in administrative tasks. By understanding the texts that construct an emerging workforce, the PR industry can synergize development training programs, rather than contribute narratives that devalue both financially and professionally intern work.
Autobiographical memory functions as a stable property of narrative identity
Authors: Camia Christin , McLean Kate C , Waters Theodore EA
Published: July 2024

The functionalist approach claims that autobiographical memory functions could be part of narrative identity. If so, the use of memory functions in personal narratives should be as stable as other properties of narrative identity. Testing this claim, the present study elicited repeated narratives and functional self-ratings for turning point and low point memories from 145 undergraduates (68.90 % female) in a two-wave eight-month longitudinal study. Stability of memory functions in specific memories was conceptualized in terms of mean-level and rank-order stability. Results showed little mean-level stability, yet substantial rank-order stability for memory functions regardless of assessment. The later use of the same memory functions in repeated narratives was predicted by baseline of functions at T1, age of event, valence, and frequency of rehearsal. Combining these results with theories on autobiographical memory and narrative identity suggests that memory functions might be a stable property of narrative identity hitherto overlooked.
A clinical-translational review of sleep problems in neurodevelopmental disabilities
Authors: Peters Sarika U. , Shelton Althea Robinson , Malow Beth A. , Neul Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2024

Sleep disorders are very common across neurodevelopmental disorders and place a large burden on affected children, adolescents, and their families. Sleep disturbances seem to involve a complex interplay of genetic, neurobiological, and medical/environmental factors in neurodevelopmental disorders. In this review, we discuss animal models of sleep problems and characterize their presence in two single gene disorders, Rett Syndrome, and Angelman Syndrome and two more commonly occurring neurodevelopmental disorders, Down Syndrome, and autism spectrum disorders. We then discuss strategies for novel methods of assessment using wearable sensors more broadly for neurodevelopmental disorders in general, including the importance of analytical validation. An increased understanding of the mechanistic contributions and potential biomarkers of disordered sleep may offer quantifiable targets for interventions that improve overall quality of life for affected individuals and their families.
Increased expression of human endogenous retrovirus K in endomyocardial biopsies from patients with cardiomyopathy – a transcriptomics meta-analysis
Authors: Heckmann Markus B. , Finke Daniel , Sauerbrey Leander , Frey Norbert , Lehmann Lorenz H.
Published: July 2024

Most studied, investigating transcriptional changes in myocardial biopsies focus on human genes. However, the presence and potential consequence of persistent expression of viral genes within the myocardium is unclear. The aim of the study was to analyze viral gene expression in RNAseq data from endomyocardial biopsies. The NCBI Bioproject library was screened for published projects that included bulk RNA sequencing data from endomyocardial biopsies from both healthy and diseased patients with a sample size greater than 20. Diseased patients with hypertrophic, dilated, and ischemic cardiomyopathies were included. A total of 507 patients with 507 samples from 6 bioprojects were included and mapped to the human genome (hg38). Unmappable sequences were extracted and mapped to an artificial ‘super-virus’ genome comprising 12,182 curated viral reference genomes. Subsequently, the sequences were reiteratively permutated and mapped again to account for randomness. In total, sequences from 68 distinct viruses were found, all of which were potentially human pathogenic. No increase in cardiotropic viruses was found in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. However, the expression levels of the particle forming human endogenous retrovirus K were significantly increased (q < 0.0003, ANOVA). Higher expression levels were associated with increased expression in mitochondrial pathways such as oxidative phosphorylation (p < 0.0001). In Conclusion, expression of human endogenous retrovirus K is significantly increased in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, which in turn was associated with transcriptional alterations in major cellular pathways.
Ecological processes of bacterial microbiome assembly in healthy and dysbiotic strawberry farms
Authors: Siegieda Dominika , Panek Jacek , Frąc Magdalena
Published: July 2024

The bacterial microbiome plays crucial role in plants’ resistance to diseases, nutrient uptake and productivity. We examined the microbiome characteristics of healthy and unhealthy strawberry farms, focusing on soil (bulk soil, rhizosphere soil) and plant (roots and shoots). The relative abundance of most abundant taxa were correlated with the chemical soil properties and shoot niche revealed the least amount of significant correlations between the two. While alpha and beta diversities did not show differences between health groups, we identified a number of core taxa (16–59) and marker bacterial taxa for each healthy (Unclassified Tepidisphaerales, Ohtaekwangia, Hydrocarboniphaga) and dysbiotic (Udaeobacter, Solibacter, Unclassified Chitinophagales, Unclassified Nitrosomonadaceae, Nitrospira, Nocardioides, Tardiphaga, Skermanella, Pseudomonas, Allorhizobium-Neorhizobium-Pararhizobium-Rhizobium, Curtobacterium) niche. We also revealed selective pressure of strawberry rhizosphere soil and roots plants in unhealthy plantations increased stochastic ecological processes of bacterial microbiome assembly in shoots. Our findings contribute to understanding sustainable agriculture and plant-microbiome interactions.
Ultrasound-guided lesser occipital nerve combined with great auricular nerve block for vestibular schwannoma craniotomy via a suboccipital retrosigmoid approach: a prospective, double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liu Tianzhu , Liu Jiuhong , Yang Liu , Wu Zongfang , Zhang Yang , Gao Feng
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This aim of this study was to investigate the analgesic efficacy and safety of lesser occipital nerve combined with great auricular nerve block (LOGAB) for craniotomy via a suboccipital retrosigmoid approach.

Methods

Patients underwent vestibular schwannoma resection via a suboccipital retrosigmoid approach were randomly assigned to receive ultrasound-guided unilateral LOGAB with 5 ml of 0.5% ropivacaine (LOGAB group) or normal saline (NSB group). Numeric rating scale (NRS) scores at rest and motion were recorded within 48 h after surgery. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), opioid consumption and other variables were measured secondly.

Results

Among 59 patients who were randomized, 30 patients received ropivacaine, and 29 patients received saline. NRS scores at rest (1.8 ± 0.5 vs. 3.2 ± 0.8, P = 0.002) and at motion (2.2 ± 0.7 vs. 3.2 ± 0.6, P = 0.013) of LOGAB group were lower than those of NSB group within 48 h after surgery. NRS scores of motion were comparable except for 6th and 12th hour (P < 0.05) in the LOGAB group. In LOGAB group, MAP decreased significantly during incision of skin and dura (P < 0.05) and intraoperative opoid consumption was remarkably reduced (P < 0.01). Postoperative remedial analgesia was earlier in the NSB group (P < 0.001). No patients reported any adverse events.

Conclusion

Among patients undergoing craniotomy for vestibular schwannoma via a suboccipital retrosigmoid approach, LOGAB may be a promising treatment for perioperative analgesia and has the potential to maintain intraoperative hemodynamic stability.

Clinical trial registration number

Chictr.org.cn ChiCTR2000038798.