bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Justice in Hiring: Why the Most Qualified Should Not (Necessarily) Get the Job
Authors: Carey Brian
Published: March 2024

In this article I argue that justice often requires that candidates who are sufficiently qualified for jobs be hired via lottery on the basis that this is the best way to recognise each candidate's equal moral claim to access meaningful work. In reaching this conclusion I consider a variety of potential objections from the perspectives of the employer, of the most qualified candidate, and of third parties, but ultimately reject the idea that a person's status as the most qualified candidate can explain why they ought to be appointed over other sufficiently qualified candidates.
Pulsed field ablation technology for pulmonary vein and left atrial posterior wall isolation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Schiavone Marco , Solimene Francesco , Moltrasio Massimo , Casella Michela , Bianchi Stefano , Iacopino Saverio , Rossillo Antonio , Schillaci Vincenzo , Fassini Gaetano , Compagnucci Paolo , Salito Armando , Rossi Pietro , Filannino Pasquale , Maggio Ruggero , Themistoklakis Sakis , Pandozi Claudio , Caprioglio Francesco , Malacrida Maurizio , Russo Antonio Dello , Tondo Claudio
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Limited data exist on pulsed‐field ablation (PFA) in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF) undergoing left atrial posterior wall isolation (LAPWI).

Methods

The Advanced TecHnologies For SuccEssful AblatioN of AF in Clinical Practice (ATHENA) prospective registry included consecutive patients referred for PeAF catheter ablation at 9 Italian centers, treated with the FARAPULSETM‐PFA system. The primary efficacy and safety study endpoints were the acute LAPWI rate, freedom from arrhythmic recurrences and the incidence of major periprocedural complications. Patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) alone, PWI + LAPWI and redo procedures were compared.

Results

Among 249 patients, 21.7% had long‐standing PeAF, 79.5% were male; mean age was 63 ± 9 years. LAPWI was performed in 57.6% of cases, with 15.3% being redo procedures. Median skin‐to‐skin times (PVI‐only 68 [60−90] vs. PVI + LAPWI 70 [59−88] mins) did not differ between groups. 45.8% LAPWI cases were approached with a 3D‐mapping system, and 37.3% with intracardiac echocardiography. LAPWI was achieved in all patients by means of PFA alone, in 88.8% cases at first pass. LAPWI was validated either by an Ultrahigh‐density mapping system or by recording electrical activity + pacing maneuvers. No major complications occurred, while 2.4% minor complications were detected. During a median follow‐up of 273 [191–379] days, 41 patients (16.5%) experienced an arrhythmic recurrence after the 90‐day blanking period, with a mean time to recurrence of 223 ± 100 days and no differences among ablation strategies.

Conclusion

LAPWI with PFA demonstrates feasibility, rapidity, and safety in real‐world practice, offering a viable alternative for PeAF patients. LAPWI is achievable even with a fluoroscopy‐only method and does not significantly extend overall procedural times.
Hepatocyte‐derived exosomes deliver the lncRNA CYTOR to hepatic stellate cells and promote liver fibrosis
Authors: Xu Wenqiang , Mo Wenhui , Han Dengyu , Dai Weiqi , Xu Xiaorong , Li Jingjing , Xu Xuanfu
Published: March 2024

Liver fibrosis is characterized by the activation and transformation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) induced by various injury factors. The degree of liver fibrosis can be significantly improved, but persistent injury factors present a significant therapeutic challenge. Hepatocytes are the most important parenchymal cell type in the liver. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanisms by which damaged liver cells activate HSCs through extracellular vesicles. We established a coculture model of LO2 and LX2 and validated its exosomal transmission activity. Subsequently, differentially expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were screened through RNA sequencing and their mechanisms of action as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) further confirmed using biological methods, such as FISH and luciferase assays. Damaged liver cells induced activation of LX2 and upregulation of liver fibrosis‐related markers. Exosomes extracted and identified from the supernatant fraction contained differentially expressed lncRNA cytoskeleton regulator RNA (CYTOR) that competed with microRNA‐125 (miR‐125) for binding to glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in HSCs, in turn, promoting LX2 activation. MiR‐125 could target and regulate both CYTOR and GDNF and vice versa, as verified using the luciferase assay. In an in vivo model, damaged liver extracellular vesicles induced the formation of liver fibrosis. Notably, downregulation of CYTOR within extracellular vesicles effectively inhibited liver fibrosis. The lncRNA CYTOR in exosomes of damaged liver cells is upregulated and modulates the expression of downstream GDNF through activity as a ceRNA, providing an effective mechanism for activation of HSCs.
Transcriptomics analysis of LINC02202/XBP1 axis in melanoma: Implications for drug targeting and PD‐1 monoclonal antibody efficacy
Authors: Shang Yuanyuan , Yang Haiqian , Cui Jian , Wang Lipeng , Wang Le , Wang Yuan , Zhao Miao‐Miao , Yu Pei‐Yao , Qiao Hui , Yang Wen‐Jun
Published: March 2024

Malignant melanoma (MM) is a highly aggressive and deadly form of skin cancer, primarily caused by recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate the regulatory mechanisms underlying melanoma recurrence and metastasis. Our study has identified a potential targeted regulatory relationship between LINC02202, miR‐526b‐3p and XBP1 in malignant melanoma. Through the regulation of the miR‐526b‐3p/XBP1 signalling pathway, LINC02202 may play a role in tumour progression and immune infiltration and inhibiting the expression of LINC02202 can increase the efficacy of immunotherapy for melanoma. Our findings shed light on the impact of LINC02202/XBP1 on the phenotype and function of malignant melanoma cells. Furthermore, this study provides a theoretical foundation for the development of novel immunotherapy strategies for malignant melanoma.
Prognostic and immunotherapeutic potential of regulatory T cell‐associated signature in ovarian cancer
Authors: Liu Yinglei , Shan Feng , Sun Ying , Kai Haili , Cao Yang , Huang Menghui , Liu Jinhui , Zhang Pengpeng , Zheng Yanli
Published: March 2024

Tumour‐induced immunosuppressive microenvironments facilitate oncogenesis, with regulatory T cells (Tregs) serving as a crucial component. The significance of Treg‐associated genes within the context of ovarian cancer (OC) remains elucidated insufficiently. Utilizing single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐Seq) for the identification of Treg‐specific biomarkers, this investigation employed single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) for the derivation of a Treg signature score. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) facilitated the identification of Treg‐correlated genes. Machine learning algorithms were employed to determine an optimal prognostic model, subsequently exploring disparities across risk strata in terms of survival outcomes, immunological infiltration, pathway activation and responsiveness to immunotherapy. Through WGCNA, a cohort of 365 Treg‐associated genes was discerned, with 70 implicated in the prognostication of OC. A Tregs‐associated signature (TAS), synthesized from random survival forest (RSF) and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) algorithms, exhibited robust predictive validity across both internal and external cohorts. Low TAS OC patients demonstrated superior survival outcomes, augmented by increased immunological cell infiltration, upregulated immune checkpoint expression, distinct pathway enrichment and differential response to immunotherapeutic interventions. The devised TAS proficiently prognosticates patient outcomes and delineates the immunological milieu within OC, offering a strategic instrument for the clinical stratification and selection of patients.
Synthesizing explanations behind global gender (in)equality: Identifying the gaps and moving forward with more economic history
Authors: Dilli Selin
Published: March 2024

This article aims to bridge the mainstream social science and the economic history literatures on the drivers of gender equality across contexts. We discuss the explanations in the social science literature on five central dimensions of global gender equality—health, work, education, marriage, and political representation—and survey the economic history literature that studied these explanations in the historical context. We analyze the commonalities and contradictions in the theoretical and methodological approaches of the two strands. The survey then offers an interdisciplinary theoretical framework that can bridge the two strands. By doing so, the review article discusses how incorporating the economic history literature into the social science literature can improve our current understanding of global gender equality in two ways. First, the long durée perspective provides insight into the diversity in the historical turning points in gender equality across world regions over the 20th century. Second, it suggests that the integration of a historical perspective can tackle the difficulties in isolating causal mechanisms and identify why standard economic and institutional conditions have varying impacts on gender equality outcomes across world regions. It also identifies the limitations in the current social science and economic history literatures and provide directions for future research.
The value of ultrasound parameters in predicting the efficacy of transabdominal ultrasound‐guided suction curettage alone in the treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy
Authors: Zhou Chunqiao , Li Xinyan , Mo Yu'ning , Wei Fangtao
Published: March 2024

Objective

To investigate the value of ultrasound parameters in assessing the efficacy of transabdominal ultrasound (TAUS)‐guided suction curettage alone for cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP).

Methods

Secondary retrospective analysis of a prospective study consisted of 137 women diagnosed with CSP who were performed TAUS‐guided suction curettage alone for the first time at Maternity and Child Health Care of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in China. Prior to surgery, an ultrasound examination was conducted. Based on the need for secondary intervention, the patients were categorized into failure group and success group, and the predictive factors for failure of TAUS‐guided suction curettage alone were analyzed.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression showed that maximum diameter of the gestational sac>29 mm (odds ratio [OR] = 4.043, 95% CI: 1.100–14.862), residual myometrium thickness ≤1.8 mm (OR = 3.719, 95% CI: 1.148–12.048) and chorionic villi thickness at the scar >4.7 mm (OR = 15.327, 95% CI: 4.617–50.881) were independent predictors of failure in TAUS‐guided suction curettage alone for CSP. Furthermore, the logistic regression model that was jointly constructed by these three predictors demonstrated an area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, and Youden index of 0.913, 0.912, 0.864, and 0.776, respectively.

Conclusion

The maximum diameter of the gestational sac, residual myometrium thickness, and chorionic villi thickness at the scar has certain predictive efficacy of TAUS‐guided suction curettage alone for CSP. Nevertheless, it is more valuable to apply the model of this study, composed of the three ultrasound parameters, for this prediction purpose.
Defining and measuring family: Lessons learned from LGBTQ+ people and families
Authors: Fish Jessica N. , Reczek Rin , Ezra Pond
Published: March 2024

Objective

This essay discusses the challenges and opportunities of defining family in the context of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) people.

Background

LGBTQ+ people and their families remain at the forefront of novel family scholarship. Interrogating methodological approaches to defining family are critical for overcoming the continued marginalization and misrepresentation of LGBTQ+ family scholarship.

Method

We review and present select literature to frame the current challenges and subsequent opportunities for advancing LGBTQ+ family scholarship through the conceptual and methodological defining of family.

Results

Framed in a U.S. context, we discuss the oppressive and emancipatory consequences that have occurred through the project of defining family. We then highlight current challenges of defining LGBTQ+ families, emphasizing data inclusion and measurement considerations that arise when grappling with the methodological complexities of LGBTQ+ people versus LGBTQ+ families, chosen families and fictive kin, LGBTQ+ children in families, and consensually non‐monogamous relationships. Throughout, we present opportunities to address current shortcomings within family scholarship regarding LGBTQ+ families. We end with clear and pointed steps on how family researchers can integrate practical but nevertheless influential strategies to advance and enrich LGBTQ+ family research through intentional reflections on research design, sampling, and measurement.

Conclusion

Despite progress, family scholarship alongside current social events entreats a more intentional commitment from family scholars to measure and advocate for data and methods that properly illuminate (LGBTQ+) family life.
The GW5‐WRKY53‐SGW5 module regulates grain size variation in rice
Authors: Abbas Waseem , Shalmani Abdullah , Zhang Jian , Sun Qi , Zhang Chunyu , Li Wei , Cui Yana , Xiong Meng , Li Yibo
Published: March 2024

Grain size is a crucial agronomic trait that affects stable yield, appearance, milling quality, and domestication in rice. However, the molecular and genetic relationships among QTL genes (QTGs) underlying natural variation for grain size remain elusive.

Here, we identified a novel QTG SGW5 (suppressor of gw5) by map‐based cloning using an F2 segregation population by fixing same genotype of the master QTG GW5. SGW5 positively regulates grain width by influencing cell division and cell size in spikelet hulls. Two nearly isogenic lines exhibited a significant differential expression of SGW5 and a 12.2% increase in grain yield. Introducing the higher expression allele into the genetic background containing the lower expression allele resulted in increased grain width, while its knockout resulted in shorter grain hulls and dwarf plants.

Moreover, a cis‐element variation in the SGW5 promoter influenced its differential binding affinity for the WRKY53 transcription factor, causing the differential SGW5 expression, which ultimately leads to grain size variation. GW5 physically and genetically interacts with WRKY53 to suppress the expression of SGW5.

These findings elucidated a new pathway for grain size regulation by the GW5‐WRKY53‐SGW5 module and provided a novel case for generally uncovering QTG interactions underlying the genetic diversity of an important trait in crops.
Barriers to implementing good nutrition in pregnancy and early childhood: Creating equitable national solutions
Authors: Rainford Monique , Barbour Linda A. , Birch Darlena , Catalano Patrick , Daniels Ella , Gremont Caron , Marshall Nicole E. , Wharton Kurt , Thornburg Kent
Published: March 2024

Exposure to deleterious stressors in early life, such as poor nutrition, underlies most adult‐onset chronic diseases. As rates of chronic disease continue to climb in the United States, a focus on good nutrition before and during pregnancy, lactation, and early childhood provides a potential opportunity to reverse this trend. This report provides an overview of nutrition investigations in pregnancy and early childhood and addresses racial disparities and health outcomes, current national guidelines, and barriers to achieving adequate nutrition in pregnant individuals and children. Current national policies and community interventions to improve nutrition, as well as the current state of nutrition education among healthcare professionals and students, are discussed. Major gaps in knowledge and implementation of nutrition practices during pregnancy and early childhood were identified and action goals were constructed. The action goals are intended to guide the development and implementation of critical nutritional strategies that bridge these gaps. Such goals create a national blueprint for improving the health of mothers and children by promoting long‐term developmental outcomes that improve the overall health of the US population.
Changes in the alveolar bone morphology among different patterns of incisor inclination during the alignment phase in orthodontic treatment without premolar extraction
Authors: Kobylyanskyy Oleksandr , Schwarz Linda , Rausch Marco Aoqi , Kobylyanska Alina , Andrukhov Oleh , Rausch‐Fan Xiaohui
Published: March 2024

Objective

The present study investigated bone remodelling in the upper and lower incisor regions depending on the inclination pattern during the alignment phase of orthodontic treatment (OT).

Materials and Methods

This prospective clinical study included 71 patients undergoing OT without premolar extraction. Cone beam computed tomography scans were taken before and after the alignment phase and the changes in the inclination, alveolar bone height (ABH) and bone thickness (BT) at levels 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 and 9 mm starting from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) were determined.

Results

Teeth were divided into ‘Retroinclination’ (lingual crown inclination <0°), ‘Proclination‐low’ (buccal crown inclination between 0° and 5°), or ‘Proclination‐high’ (buccal crown inclination >5°). The alignment phase of OT resulted in ABH loss. The highest ABH loss in the maxilla was observed on the buccal side in the ‘Proclination‐high’ and was 0.71 mm. ABH loss by 1.1 mm was observed in the mandible on the lingual side in the ‘Retroinclination’ group. The most significant changes in BT by up to 2 mm were observed at levels 6, 8 and 9 mm and these changes exhibited a moderate to strong correlation with the alterations in the inclination of individual incisors. At levels 2, 3 and 4 mm, the highest decrease in BT by up to 0.83 mm was observed on the palatal side of upper incisors in the ‘Proclination‐high’ group.

Conclusion

The direction and amount of tooth inclination partially determine changes in the bone parameters during the alignment phase.
Clinical Efficacy of Unilateral Dual‐channel Endoscopic Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Lumbar Spondylolisthesis with Spinal Scoliosis
Authors: You Xuanjun , Zhao Bin , Zhang Tao , Wang Yongfeng , Xu Chaojian , Yuan Jie , Liu Ruxing
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Scoliosis associated with spondylolisthesis is a common phenomenon. Recent research has reported that scoliosis can spontaneously disappear after lumbar spinal fusion surgery. Researchers have advocated that, for scoliosis associated with vertebral slippage, surgery for the latter may be the only necessary intervention, while unnecessary surgery for scoliosis should be avoided. So we propose that minimally invasive techniques can achieve treatment effects similar to those of open surgery. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of unilateral dual‐channel endoscopic lumbar interbody fusion (ULIF) for treating lumbar spondylolisthesis with spinal scoliosis.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed patients with lumbar spondylolisthesis and spinal scoliosis who underwent ULIF between September 2021 and September 2023. Measurements of the Cobb angle, lumbar lordosis (LL) angle, sacral slope (SS), slip percentage (SP), slip angle (SA), L1 plumb line‐S1 distance (LASD), and average intervertebral height (AIH) were taken preoperatively, immediately following surgery, 3 months after surgery, and at the final follow‐up. The visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring systems were used to assess clinical results. The surgical efficacy was evaluated by comparing these parameters before and after surgery. Comparison of indicators within the same group was conducted using one‐way repeated‐measures analysis of variance or paired sample t‐tests, whereas between‐group differences were compared using an independent t‐test.

Results

This study included 31 individuals who underwent surgery and completed follow‐up. The follow‐up period did not show a significant loss of corrective angles. Furthermore, the Cobb angle, SP, SA, and LASD significantly decreased after surgery, whereas the LL angle, SS, and AIH significantly increased (all p < 0.05). SP did not differ between the immediate postoperative period and the 3‐month and final follow‐up periods (p > 0.05). However, other parameters significantly improved during the follow‐up period at all time points, except from 3 months to the final follow‐up period (p > 0.05). Throughout the follow‐up period, the lower back and leg pain VAS, ODI, and JOA scores considerably improved compared with the preoperative levels (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

ULIF effectively treated lumbar spondylolisthesis with scoliosis, thereby reducing the degree of slip and scoliosis. By performing surgical reduction, fusion, and fixation only on the slipped segment, ULIF also had a corrective effect on the spinal lateral curvature, thereby avoiding the need for unnecessary scoliosis surgery. Moreover, the short‐term efficacy was satisfactory, but the long‐term efficacy requires further study.
Triggered by your heart: Effects of cardioafferent traffic and stress on automatic responses in a Simon task
Authors: von Haugwitz Leon , Wascher Edmund , Larra Mauro F.
Published: March 2024

Variations in cardioafferent traffic are relayed to the brain via arterial baroreceptors and have been shown to modulate perceptual processing. However, less is known about the cognitive‐behavioral consequences of these effects and their role during stress. Here, we investigated in how far automatic responses during the Simon task were modulated by exposure to a laboratory stressor and the different phases of the cardiac cycle. In this study, 30 participants performed three blocks of a combined horizontal and vertical Simon task, which is characterized by either sensorimotor or cognitive response conflicts, respectively. Before each block, subjects were exposed to both the cold pressor test (CPT) and a control condition according to a within‐subjects design. Target stimuli were presented during either systole or diastole. Behavioral and EEG‐correlates of task processing were assessed along with subjective, cardiovascular, and endocrine measures of stress. The stress induction was successful yielding significant increases in all these measures compared to control. Moreover, we found the expected Simon effects: in incompatible compared to compatible trials performance was decreased and LRP latency as well as anterior N2 area increased. Importantly, accuracy was improved in compatible but reduced in incompatible trials during systole vs. diastole but only in the horizontal Simon condition. Stress dampened N2 area, however, no interactions with cardiac cycle were evident. These results indicate a faciliatory effect of cardioafferent traffic on automated sensorimotor processes.
On a computable Skorokhod's integral‐based estimator of the drift parameter in fractional SDE
Authors: Marie Nicolas
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with a Skorokhod's integral‐based least squares‐ (LS) type estimator of the drift parameter computed from multiple (possibly dependent) copies of the solution of a stochastic differential equation (SDE) driven by a fractional Brownian motion of Hurst index . On the one hand, some convergence results are established on our LS estimator when . On the other hand, when , Skorokhod's integral‐based estimators cannot be computed from data, but in this paper some convergence results are established on a computable approximation of our LS estimator.
Conjectures on Kant and the Haitian Revolution
Authors: Huseyinzadegan Dilek
Published: March 2024

In this article, I put forward, as a suspicion only, that Kant never thought Black lives had dignity but only price. I follow Michel‐Rolph Trouillot's argument that the Haitian Revolution is unthinkable for Enlightenment philosophers to examine what Kant could have, would have, or should have said about this world‐historical event. By making conjectures about Kant's silence on the Haitian Revolution, I also draw from Kant's writings on the American and French Revolutions. If my suspicion is right, then Kantianism cannot accommodate an antiracist program. This ought to change how we talk about racism, slavery, and colonialism in Kant scholarship and in the history of philosophy.
Evolution of interphase stress over a crack propagation plane as a function of stress relief heat treatments in a PBF‐LB/M AlSi10Mg alloy
Authors: Roveda Ilaria , Mishurova Tatiana , Evans Alexander , Fitch Andrew N. , Haubrich Jan , Requena Guillermo , Bruno Giovanni , Serrano‐Munoz Itziar
Published: March 2024

In this study, we compare the residual stress state in a laser powder bed fusion (PBF‐LB/M) AlSi10Mg alloy in the as‐built (AB) condition with that after two different heat treatments (265 °C for 1 h, HT1; and 300 °C for 2 h, HT2). The bulk residual stress (RS) is determined using synchrotron X‐ray diffraction (SXRD), and near‐surface profiles are determined using laboratory energy‐dispersive X‐ray diffraction (EDXRD). The EDXRD results do not reveal any notable difference between the conditions at a depth of 350 μm, suggesting that the machining process yields a comparable residual stress state in the near‐surface regions. On the other hand, the SXRD results show that HT1 is more effective in relieving the bulk RS. It is observed that HT1 reduces the RS state in both the aluminium matrix and the silicon network. In addtion, HT2 does not have a significant impact on relaxing the RS as‐built state of the matrix, although it does induce a reduction in the RS magnitudes of the Si phase. It is concluded that the heat treatment stress relieving is effective as long as the Si‐network is not disaggregated.
Risk factors for complicated perioperative recovery in dogs undergoing staphylectomy or folded flap palatoplasty: Seventy‐six cases (2018–2022)
Authors: Fracka Agnieszka B. , Song Min K. , Dejong Trey L. , Fransson Boel A.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To analyze risk factors for complicated perioperative recovery of dogs undergoing either staphylectomy or folded flap palatoplasty.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Seventy‐six client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Medical records of dogs that underwent either staphylectomy or folded flap palatoplasty were reviewed for signalment, brachycephalic risk (BRisk) score, history of gastrointestinal signs, laryngeal collapse grade, presence of preoperative aspiration pneumonia, intraoperative respiratory and cardiovascular complications, length of general anesthesia, number of corrected brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) components, and gastrointestinal and respiratory postoperative complications. Complicated recovery was defined as requirement for prolonged oxygen treatment and/or tracheostomy or perioperative death. Penalized logistic regression was used to identify risk factors.

Results

Seventy‐six dogs were enrolled in the study. Multivariate penalized logistic regression identified four risk factors for complicated recovery. These include surgery type (p = .0002), age (p = .0113), laryngeal collapse grade >2 (p < .0001) and length of general anesthesia (p = .0051).

Conclusions

In this population, dogs that had staphylectomy, increasing age, laryngeal collapse grade >2 and increasing length of general anesthesia were at increased risk for perioperative complicated recovery.

Clinical significance

The results of this study identified risk factors for perioperative complicated recovery in dogs undergoing elongated soft palate correction and may assist in surgical planning and early prediction of complications.
Prospective evaluation of the surgical stabilization and outcome of canine tibial plateau fractures in three cases
Authors: Adams Tessa A. , Marturello Danielle M. , Déjardin Loïc M.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To report the surgical approaches and stabilization of lateral and medial tibial plateau fractures (TPF), as well as the long‐term outcome following repair.

Study design

Prospective series of three client‐owned dogs.

Animals

Three dogs.

Methods

For the two lateral TPF cases (Unger type 41‐B1), the surgical approach included separation of the lateral collateral ligament and long digital extensor tendon. The lateral meniscus was elevated to allow visualization of the tibial surface and assess fracture reduction. The first case was repaired using two 2.0 mm lag screws (with washers). The second case sustained a lateral TPF, fibular fracture and concurrent tubercle of Gerdy fracture. Both tibial fractures were stabilized using two 2.0 mm lag screws with washers and two 0.9 mm Kirschner wires (K‐wires). A third case, diagnosed with an Unger type 41‐B2 medial TPF, was treated using 0.9 mm K‐wires and 22‐gauge tension band.

Results

There were no major complications noted. One minor complication occurred (screw yield two weeks postoperatively). By 8 weeks, all patients reached clinical union with good limb function. Owners were contacted 9–36 months postoperatively. LOAD scores and examinations were performed for two of three patients; the third patient was not contactable after relocating out of state. Both cases with completed questionnaires had a LOAD score of 5/52.

Conclusion

Tibial plateau fractures are rare in canine patients. While challenging, they can be successfully managed using a combination of lag screws, K‐wires, and tension band.

Clinical significance

Surgical stabilization of TPF is feasible and may reduce the risk of meniscal injury.
Optimizing reservoir operation incorporating ecological demand and stability requirement
Authors: Qiu Jun , Ma Cang , Wang Hong‐Ru , Li Hou‐Jun , Li Fang‐Fang
Published: March 2024

The construction and operation of large‐scale reservoirs alter the natural river flow regimes and destroy the original suitable reproduction and living conditions of aquatic organisms. Especially during the spawning season, the fluctuating water flow process is particularly important for fish reproduction. A bi‐objective optimization model considering both the environmental flow demand for fish spawning and the stability of hydropower output is established in this study and solved by one of the most widely used algorithms for multi‐objective problems, the Non‐Dominated Sorted Genetic Algorithm‐II. The derived Pareto Front can be used to guide reservoir operation during fish spawning seasons. The model proposed in this paper is applied to the Yangqu Reservoir, currently under construction on the upper Yellow River in China. The results show that the stability of hydropower output can still be improved by 4.80% to 10.56%, even if the environmental flow demand is taken into account. Even for the scheme preferring ecological recovery, the stability of hydropower output can be increased by more than 0.85%.
Enhancing Team-Based Learning by Moderating FIRST-ADLX Framework inTeacher Professional Development
Authors: Bahgat Mohamed , Almasri Zeina , Elsafty Ashraf , Seddek Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Over the past few decades, teacher professional development has increasingly focused on developing teachers’ professional skills in the use of TBL (team-based learning) in their classrooms, gaining new insights and perspectives, and enhancing their ability to meet the diverse needs of their students. Consequently, many studies have investigated the effectiveness of learner-centric approaches such as team-based learning, inquiry-based learning, problem-based learning, project-based learning, and others on learner engagement and knowledge acquisition. While such approaches have been found to motivate learners and improve learning outcomes, many teachers have struggled to create an impactful learner experience by following the recommended sequence alone. To address this issue, this paper proposes an integrated approach to designing and facilitating a learner experience using FIRST-ADLX (Focusing – Interacting – Reviewing – Sequencing – Transforming-Active Deep Learner eXperience) Framework to moderate a team-based learning session. The effectiveness of integrating team-based learning within FIRST-ADLX Framework in improving learner engagement, overall satisfaction, and knowledge retention is investigated through an auto-ethnographic research design (Lichtman, 2012; Méndez, 2013; Ellis & Bochner, 2000; Starr, 2010). Results indicate that FIRST-ADLX Framework effectively facilitates communication and collaboration among team members, supports the achievement of learning outcomes, and increases overall satisfaction and engagement. Therefore, using FIRST-ADLX Framework to moderate a learner-centric approach is an effective way to “develop and train teachers on how to understand, experience, practice and have a sustainable impact on learners” (Bahgat et al. 2020).and on the other hand to help teachers in several aspects of designing and facilitating a sustainable learning experience for their students.
Proposing a novel mathematical model for hospital pneumatic system
Authors: Takgil Büşra , Kara Resul
Published: March 2024

Hospital Pneumatic Systems, specializing in pneumatic systems, are among the most essential components for hospitals. It offers efficient and cost-effective solutions to problems related to the transportation of various materials in hospitals. However, in existing systems, the need for compressed air is met without worrying about cost control and without depending on the sample transported, and this not only makes the system inefficient but also may cause sample degradation. The main purpose of this study is to provide speed/pressure control according to the type of material transported to eliminate the disadvantages of existing systems such as energy use and sample degradation. In this study, a new mathematical model is presented that can be used to make more energy-efficient hospital pneumatic systems. Although there are many studies on various pneumatic systems in the literature, there is not enough for the control of hospital pneumatic systems. According to the results obtained in this study, the system parameters were determined and the mathematical model of the system was obtained by using the Multivariate nonlinear regression method. A genetic algorithm was used to test the validity of the obtained mathematical model and to optimize the coefficient of the input parameters of the model. It is expected that this proposed model will contribute to the use of hospital pneumatic systems and provide a scientific and practical solution to the proposed mathematical model. The proposed mathematical model provides up to %43 more efficient transportation over the currently used system that has been tested.
“If This Is What Working in Sports Is, I Want Absolutely No Part of It”: Women’s Experiences With Sexual Harassment in Sport Organizations
Authors: Taylor Elizabeth , Sveinson Katherine , Burton Laura
Published: March 2024

There is a plethora of recent examples from the sport industry that situate sport organizations as contributing to sexual violence against women (e.g., Phoenix Suns, Nike). Though research has shown that these issues exist in sport, little work has focused on the impacts of gender-based violence and sexual harassment. Therefore, utilizing gender regimes as our conceptual framework, we explored how experiences of gender-based violence and sexual harassment within sport organizations work to perpetuate the gender inequality in sport workplaces. Findings illustrate the influence of a multilevel relationship to the gender-based violence and sexual harassment experienced by women is impacted by the presence of gender regimes and use of containment strategies to conceal this abuse. Thus, we argue that institutional-level failures to protect women represent organizational success, which reinforces gender regimes and the purposeful containment of these incidents maintains the gender/power hierarchy.
Generation of New Aerosol Particles and Their Evolution in Atmospheric Air: Results of Experiments in a Large Aerosol Chamber of RPA Typhoon
Authors: Romanov N. P. , Alekseeva A. V. , Vasilyeva M. A. , Dubtsov S. N. , Ivanov V. N. , Ozols O. I. , Paley A. A. , Pisanko Yu. V. , Sakhibgareev D. G.
Published: March 2024

Abstract—

The results of experiments in the Large Aerosol Chamber of RPA Typhoon revealed the appearance of new aerosol particles larger than 15 nm in an aerosol-free volume of atmospheric air isolated from the external environment in darkness 20 min after the air purification. The generation of new particles is associated with the possible presence of precursor gases in the atmospheric air, which, under the influence of cosmic rays penetrating into the chamber, turn into aerosols. The experimentally observed evolution (over several days) of the size spectrum of the resulting particles shows that the generation of new aerosol particles lasts no more than 20 hours. During the evolution, the particles become larger and reach more than 100 nm size. After repeated purification of the air inside the chamber with the removal of newly generated aerosols, no new particles were detected for 10 days.
Pyomyoma after caesarean section: a rare entity
Authors: Siwatch Sujata , Bagga Rashmi , Singh Tulika , Khastgir Gaurav
Published: March 2024

Pyomyoma, a rare complication of a myoma undergoing infarction and subsequent infection, may be a diagnostic challenge in patients with unexplained puerperal fever. A woman in her 30s presented with fever and foul-smelling discharge per vaginum, 6 months after her first caesarean section (CS). She underwent an elective CS for symptomatic placenta praevia at 34 weeks of gestation. Intra-operatively, post-partum haemorrhage was managed with uterotonics and blood transfusions. However, 2 weeks later, she developed a high-grade fever that was non-responsive to parenteral antibiotics. She continued to have intermittent episodes of high-grade fever, which were treated on an outpatient basis. Six months later, she developed purulent vaginal discharge, which grewEscherichia colion bacterial culture. She received intravenous antibiotics and blood. Radiology confirmed the presence of a large fibroid with a focal capsular breach and peripherally enhanced collection extending to the endometrial cavity. The patient subsequently underwent a myomectomy. Intra-operatively, a large fundal myoma with endometrial breach and purulent discharge in the fibroid and endometrial cavity was noted. She sustained the procedure well and recovered uneventfully.
Realist evaluation of maternity waiting home intervention models in Inhambane, Mozambique: protocol for a comparative embedded case study, the Mozambique-Canada Maternal Health Project
Authors: Uwamahoro Nadege Sandrine , Forsyth Jessie , Andre Fernanda , Mandlate Dórcia António , Gilmore Brynne , Muhajarine Nazeem
Published: March 2024

Introduction

This is a study protocol that tests and refines realist theories regarding the uptake and scale-up of the linked maternity waiting home (hereafter MWH) and facility birth intervention in the Mozambican context. The theories were developed through a realist review of MWH–facility birth literature from low-income and middle-income countries. The aim of the proposed study is to contribute to a contextually refined understanding of the causal chains underlying MWH–facility birth adoption by pregnant women and their families, communities, the health system and donors.

Methods and analysis

The overarching methodology is mixed-methods realist evaluation. The study will adopt a comparative embedded case study design comparing three new masonry MWHs built by the Mozambique-Canada Maternal Health Project in Inhambane province with three older MWHs selected based on variation in the built environment. Baseline data on participating MWH–facility birth interventions will be collected through observations, reviews of routine data and analysis of statistics and reports from provincial and district health authorities and the Mozambique-Canada Maternal Health project. Realist interviews will be conducted with MWH users and non-users, companions of MWH users and non-users, partners of MWH users and non-users, and stakeholders within the health system and the non-governmental organisation sector. Realist focus groups will be used to collect data from community-level implementers. The analysis will be retroductive and use the context–mechanism–outcome configuration heuristic tool to represent generative causation. We will analyse data from intervention and comparator MWHs independently and compare the resulting refined programme theories. Data analysis will be done in NVivo 12.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval for the project has been obtained from the Mozambique National Bioethics Committee (CNBS-Comité Nacional de Bioética para a Saúde) and the University of Saskatchewan Bioethical Research Ethics Board. The evaluation will adhere to the International Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research Involving Human Subjects and the African adaptation of evaluation ethics and principles. Evaluation results will be disseminated to stakeholders' practice audiences through peer-reviewed publications, plain-language briefs, theory validation/feedback meetings and conference presentations.
Qualitative investigation of military surgical resuscitation teams: what are the drivers of success of a rapid response team?
Authors: Eckert Matthew J , Varpio Lara , Soh Michael , Cristancho Sayra
Published: March 2024

Objectives

This qualitative study explores the characteristics of a specialised military medical rapid response team (MRRT), the surgical resuscitation team (SRT). Despite mixed evidence of efficacy, civilian MRRTs are widely employed, with significant variation in structure and function. Recent increased use of these teams to mitigate patient risk in challenging healthcare scenarios, such as global pandemics, mass casualty events and resource-constrained health systems, mandates a reconceptualisation of how civilian MRRTs are created, trained and used. Here, we study the core functions and foundational underpinnings of SRTs and discuss how civilian MRRTs might learn from their military counterparts.

Design

Semistructured interview-based study using Descriptive Qualitative Research methodology and Thematic Analysis.

Setting

Remote audio interviews conducted via Zoom.

Participants

Participants included 15 members of the United States Special Operations Command SRTs, representing all medical specialties of the SRT as well as operational planners.

Results

Adaptability was identified as a core function of SRTs and informed by four foundational underpinnings: mission variability, shared values and principles, interpersonal and organisational trust and highly effective teaming. Our findings provide three important insights for civilian MRRTs: (1) team member roles should not be defined by silos of professional specialisation, (2) trust is a key factor in the teaming process and (3) team principles and values result in and are reinforced by organisational trust.

Conclusion

This study offers the first in-depth investigation of a unique military MRRT. Important insights that may offer benefit to civilian MRRT practices include enabling the breakdown of traditional division of labour, allowing for and promoting deep interpersonal and professional familiarity, and facilitating a cycle of positive reinforcement between teams and organisations. Future investigation of small team limitations, comparability to civilian MRRTs, and the team relationship to the larger organisation are needed to better understand how these teams function in a healthcare system and translate to civilian practice.
Association between immune-inflammatory indexes and lower urinary tract symptoms: an analysis of cross-sectional data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2008)
Authors: Liu Wen , Wang Jia , Wang Miaomiao , Ding Xin , Wang Miao , Liu Ming
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study aimed to systematically investigate the relationship between immune-inflammatory indexes with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2005–2008).

Participants

A total of 2709 men with complete information for immune-inflammatory indexes and LUTSs were included from NHANES 2005–2008.

Outcomes and analyses

Automated haematology analysing devices are used to measure blood cell counts, and LUTSs were presented by standard questionnaires. Non-linear and logistic regression analyses were used to estimate their association after adjustment for confounders.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression showed that pan-immune-inflammation value (OR (95% CI)=1.60 (1.14 to 2.23)), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) (OR (95% CI)=1.82 (1.21 to 2.73)), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR (95% CI)=1.81 (1.31 to 2.49)), derived NLR (dNLR) (OR (95% CI)=1.91 (1.35 to 2.70)) and C reactive protein (CRP) (OR (95% CI)=1.71 (1.05 to 2.79)) was positively associated with LUTS. Additionally, composite immune-inflammation markers exhibited a stronger association with LUTS than any single index, with the ORs for high SIRI+high CRP, high NLR+high CRP and high dNLR+high CRP being 2.26, 2.44 and 2.16, respectively (all p<0.05). Furthermore, subgroup analyses revealed that age, smoking status and hypertension have different effects on the relationship between immune-inflammatory markers and LUTS.

Conclusions

This study indicated that high levels of immune-inflammatory markers were associated with an increased risk of clinical LUTS. The combination of CRP with SIRI, NLR and dNLR, respectively, showed a stronger positive correlation with clinical LUTS compared with any single index.
Gaussian black holes in brane-world model
Authors: Paul Bikash Chandra
Published: March 2024

We present regular black hole solutions in the framework of Brane-world gravity sourced by a Gaussian matter distribution. The black hole metric shares all the common features of regular black holes in the modified General Relativity (GR) with some exciting features. Considering the energy momentum tensor for an isotropic fluid on the brane, the modified Einstein field equation results with an effective energy momentum tensor that describes an anisotropic fluid determined by brane world parameters. Although the effective radial pressure and energy density satisfy the vacuum energy condition, the effective transverse pressure behaves differently. Gaussian black hole (GBH) solutions are obtained from a Gaussian matter distribution. In the paper, a new class of GBH solutions are obtained in the brane-world gravity with effective normal matter in addition to exotic matter distribution. In the brane world gravity, the mass of a GBH depends on the brane tension. The mass of a GBH formed in the brane world is greater than that at low energy (i.e., GR). We study the trajectories of the massive and the massless particles that can be trapped around a GBH for a set of model parameters. The radii of the photon spheres around the GBH and the condition for the stability of the trajectories of the photon spheres are determined. The properties of the GBHs are studied in detail, including their possible observable features.