bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the impacts of military expenditures on economic productivity: a system dynamics approach
Authors: Damla Gönül-Sezer Eylül , Demirel Duygun Fatih
Published: August 2023

The relationship between military expenditures and economic productivity has taken the attention of many researchers and there exist an important number of studies approaching the topic through several techniques. However, there is no consensus among the scholars whether military expenditures trigger economic growth, productivity, and other macroeconomic indicators. Such arguments are mainly due to unclear results obtained from the existing studies, in which the complex relationships between military expenditures and macroeconomics are not fully incorporated. Considering the bidirectional and nonlinear relationships among macroeconomic indicators and complex feedback mechanisms, a system dynamics (SD) model for examining the impacts of military expenditures on economic productivity in Turkey is proposed. The proposed SD model aims to reflect the complex environment surrounding the military spending–economic productivity nexus and to analyze the feedback structures that lead to miscellaneous consequences with delays. A stock–flow model is developed to represent the complex nonlinear relationships and causalities between the variables. Data from SIPRI, the World Bank, and several local statistical sources covering the years 2009–2018 are utilized to simulate the existing case, warfare in neighbors, economic shrinkage scenarios, and the combination of the latter two. The results obtained from the scenarios suggest that short fixes such as importing military products instead of national investments give rise to chronic issues like continual dependence on foreign supply, hence, leading to decrease in overall economic growth. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first attempt to integrate SD methodology with military expenditure and economic productivity analysis.
Acquired Cholesteatomas Behind Intact Tympanic Membranes of Adults: A Series of 13 Cases
Authors: Lou Zhengcai
Published: August 2023

Background and Objective: Acquired cholesteatomas behind intact tympanic membrane (ITMC) are rarely encountered in adults in the otology clinic, and the clinical and imaging features of ITMC in adults remain unclear to date. ITMC patients are commonly overlooked because of the absence of both a typical retraction pocket and a tympanic membrane (TM) perforation. The objective of this study was to describe clinical features, pathogenesis, and surgical outcomes in a series of adult patients with acquired ITMC. Materials and Methods: The clinical records of 13 adult patients diagnosed with ITMC were retrospectively reviewed. ITMC were classified into those associated with otitis media with effusion (OME; Group A) and histories of previous perforations (Group B). Results: A total of 13 cases with unilaterally acquired ITMC were included, of which 10 (76.9%) were in Group A and 3 (23.1%) were in Group B. All Group A patients exhibited white masses behind intact TMs, in the anterosuperior quadrants of 6 and the posterior upper quadrants of 4. In Group B patients, white masses in the middle ear were lacking. The TMs were atrophic and white myringosclerotic plaques were evident. The cholesteatomas were confined to the antrum and aditus ad antrum in 2 Group B patients but extended to the epitympanum in 1. All 10 Group A patients had extensive cholesteatomas but intact (noneroded) malleoli. Conclusions: An acquired ITMC should be suspected if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop in adults with OME or a history of perforation, although the TM is intact with or without pars flaccida retraction, computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging should be performed. Canal wall up mastoidectomy combined with ventilation tube insertion effectively treated ITMC associated with OME.
Clinical Efficacy Analysis of Functional Rhinoplasty Assisted by Nasal Endoscopy
Authors: Wang Lei , Han Yu’e , Li Long , Li Xiao , Yuan Ying
Published: August 2023

Objective:

To analyze the clinical effect of endoscopy-assisted functional rhinoplasty.

Methods:

Endoscopy-assisted functional rhinoplasty was performed in all patients. Deviated nasal septum was corrected, nasal septum cartilage graft was prepared through open access under the assistance of endoscopy, the nasal frame structure was adjusted with the endoscopy-assisted rhinoplasty combined with middle and inferior turbinoplasty, and the patient’s nasal ventilation function and external nose cosmetology were restored. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE), nasal acoustic reflex, and nasal resistance were examined preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation (ROE), nasal appearance deviation value, and morphological measurement of the external nose were used to assess the external nasal appearance. Finally, postoperative satisfaction was used for overall evaluation.

Results:

In terms of nasal ventilation evaluation, the VAS and NOSE scores of nasal obstruction decreased significantly at 6 months after the operation compared with that before the operation (1.96 ± 0.84 vs 6.68 ± 1.28, 4.25 ± 1.80 vs 12.25 ± 2.50; P < .05). Among the objective indexes, MCA1, MCA2 and NV5 were significantly increased whereas RT, MCA1a/MCA1b, MCA2a/MCA2b, MD1a/MD1b, and MD2a/MD2b were significantly decreased compared with those before the operation ( P < .05). The MD1 and MD2 levels before and after operation had no significant differences ( P > .05). In the evaluation of external nose morphology, postoperative ROE was significantly increased, and the deviation value of nasal appearance was significantly decreased [(16.93 ± 2.61 vs 10.64 ± 3.01), (1.46 ± 1.11 mm vs 5.72 ± 2.30 mm), P < .05]. In terms of postoperative patient satisfaction: 26 cases (92.9%) were very satisfied with nasal ventilation function, 2 cases (7.1%) were satisfied with nasal ventilation function, 24 cases (85.7%) were very satisfied with nasal appearance, and 4 cases (14.3%) were satisfied with nasal appearance.

Conclusions:

Nasal endoscopy-assisted functional rhinoplasty can improve the nasal ventilation function and external nasal morphology at the same time. Moreover, its clinical effect is good, and the patient satisfaction is high.
Promoting Sustainability in Housing with Services: Insights From the Right Care, Right Place, Right Time Program
Authors: Nadash Pamela , Miller Edward Alan , Simpson Elizabeth , Wylie Molly , Shellito Natalie , Lin Yan , Jansen Taylor , Cohen Marc A.
Published: August 2023

Despite the widely-acknowledged potential of housing with services for improving the lives of low-income older adults, ensuring their financial sustainability has been challenging. This study aimed to address this issue, drawing on 31 key informant interviews and three focus groups with payers, housing providers, and community partners involved in the Boston-area Right Care, Right Place, Right Time Program, which enrolled about 400 older adults. Transcripts were qualitatively analyzed using thematic coding. Participants agreed on the program’s value, but there was little consensus on mechanisms for securing ongoing funding. The broadly distributed responsibility for individuals in housing sites, which involves health insurers, hospitals, and community service providers, provides little incentive for investment by these entities. Findings suggest that governmental mechanisms, probably at the federal level, are needed to channel funding toward these supportive services. Without such reliable funding sources, replication of supportive housing models for low-income older people will prove difficult.
How Does Religion Influence Parental Support of Young Adult Children?
Authors: Lei Lei , Traylor Frederic
Published: August 2023

Religion is an important cultural institution that shapes family ideologies and behaviors. Although previous research has documented religious differences in parenting behaviors and parent–child relationships in adolescence, how religion influences parental support of young adult children is not clear. Using data from the Transition into Adulthood Supplement (TAS) of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID, 2005–2017; N = 9,754 person-years), we employed mixed-effect logistic and linear regression models to examine the impacts of young adults’ religious affiliation, religious salience, and parent–child religious concordance on parental coresidence and financial support. The results show that mainline Protestant and Catholic young adults are more likely than nonreligious youth to live with their parents. Catholic and Jewish young adults receive more financial support from their parents than nonreligious youth did when they are religiously concordant with their mother. The associations between religious affiliation and parental support are strengthened by young adults’ religious salience and religious concordance with their mother.
Routes to Regional Transit Governance: Researching the Histories of and Cataloguing the Methods Used to Establish German Verkehrsverbünde
Authors: Anzai Kenji , Eidlin Eric
Published: August 2023

Regional transit governance has become a topic of growing interest in some transit policy circles in the United States. There is hope that the quality of transit service can be improved by creating governance structures that transcend municipal and county borders to oversee and coordinate transit provision over entire regions. Although several studies have recorded the benefits of such governance systems and several others have explored different models, few have investigated the methods by which these structures were created. This is crucial information, as establishing such governance structures is a delicate political process with no guarantee of success. Through interviews with planners in Germany, this study investigated six German regional transit governance bodies and searched for strategic components that were instrumental to the creation of at least one regional governance structure. Five were ultimately found, which can be mixed and matched for use in strategies in regions seeking to establish regional transit governance of their own. The five strategic components found were bilateral negotiations, state intervention, large infrastructure packages, political moments, and strong leadership. Further case study research is needed to reinforce and expand this set of strategic components.
Deploying Fast Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles in Urban Networks: An Activity-Based Approach
Authors: Kavianipour Mohammadreza , Verbas Omer , Rostami Alireza , Soltanpour Amirali , Gurumurthy Krishna Murthy , Ghamami Mehrnaz , Zockaie Ali
Published: August 2023

This paper explores an important problem under the domain of network modeling, the optimal configuration of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) in urban networks considering EV users’ daily activities and charging behavior. This study proposes a charging behavior simulation model considering different initial state of charge (SOC), travel distance, availability of home chargers, and the daily schedule of trips for each traveler. The proposed charging behavior simulation model examines the complete chain of trips for EV users as well as the interdependency of trips traveled by each driver. The problem of finding the optimum charging configuration is then formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming problem that considers the dynamics of travel time and travel distance, the interdependency of trips made by each driver, limited range of EVs, remaining battery capacity for recharging, waiting time in queue, and detour to access a charging station. This problem is solved using a metaheuristic approach for a large-scale case network. A series of examples are presented to demonstrate the model efficacy and explore the impact of energy consumption on the final SOC and the optimum charging infrastructure.
Interrater agreement in classifying infections during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Verkerk Karlijn , Pladet Lara CA , Meuwese Christiaan L , Donker Dirk W , Derde Lennie PG , Cremer Olaf L
Published: August 2023

Infectious complications are common during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and may negatively impact outcomes. However, there is considerable variation in the reported rates of incidence, which hampers the use of infections as a quality benchmark for ECMO centers. To assess the contributing role of poor interrater agreement, three independent raters reviewed medical records from all intensive care unit (ICU) patients who received ECMO for >24 h in our tertiary center between October 2019 and October 2021 for suspected episodes of infection, which were rated based on their date of onset and presumed site/diagnosis. To establish a gold standard, any discrepancies were resolved using an expert panel consisting of two intensivists/infectious disease specialists. During 83 ECMO-runs in 77 patients, we observed a total of 62 adjudicated infectious episodes (incidence rate 62, 95% CI: 48–80, per 1000 days at risk). Among 81 episodes suspected by at least one observer, 66 (81%) were identified by two, and only 44 (54%) by all three raters, resulting in Fleiss’ kappa of 0.10 (95% CI: 0.00–0.19; slight agreement). However, if raters concurred regarding infection onset, subsequent agreement on infection site was good (concordance 89%; kappa 0.85, 95% CI: 0.72–0.98; near perfect agreement). In conclusion, adjudication of infectious episodes during ECMO is associated with poor interrater agreement regarding occurrence—but not site—of infection. This finding might partially explain the significant disparities observed in reported infection rates during ECMO, emphasizing the need for caution when interpreting infection data in this particular population due to the potential for inherent measurement error.
Changes in serum hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and erythropoietin in allergic rhinitis patients: Correlation with the Th inflammatory profile and disease comorbidities
Authors: Al-Rasheedi Abdullah N. , Almaeen Abdulrahman H. , Alotaibi Abdullah D. , Alruwaili Abdulaziz S. D , Alruwaili Sultan H. H. , Alruwaili Wadad M. A. , Alsakhry Aljoharah S. , Alruwaili Ghuyudh M. , ALkuwaykibi Hala M. , Alrawili Noof N. , Alabdullah Rahaf Z. , Alatwi Reem S. , Taher Ibrahim , El-Metwally Tarek H.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The balance between proinflammatory IFN-γ Th1 vs. the anti-inflammatory allergy-mediating IL-4-heralded Th2 reactions is pivotal in IgE-mediated allergic rhinitis (AR). Hypoxia-Inducible Factor (HIF)-1α is inducible by hypoxia and various cytokines. HIF-1α activates different anti-pathogen and allergic immune cells. This cross-sectional study assessed the changes in serum HIF-1α and its dependent erythropoietin (EPO) levels among hospital-characterized AR patients. Type of the immune reaction, Th1 vs. Th2, was stratified based on the calculated IL-4/IFN-γ direct ratio, after being measured using specific ELISA assays.

Methods

147 AR patients (83 males/64 females), and age-, BMI-, and gender-matched 24 healthy controls (13 males/11 females) were sequentially enrolled at ENT Unit, Prince Muteb General Hospital, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia. Measurement of serum parameters was carried out using specific ELISA assays.

Results

Contrary to the majority of previous publications, all controls and the majority of patients ( n = 137/147) exhibited naive Th0 immune response. IFN-γ and HIF-1α levels were greater in controls than in patients (168.9 ± 173.9 vs 108 ± 94.5 pg/mL; p<.012) and controls had a lower IL-4/IFN-ratio (2.439 ± 0.897 vs 3.33 ± 1.19; p<.001) than patients. The HIF-1α results disagree with earlier studies. Due to the wide inter-individual variations, serum IL-4 and EPO levels in controls were non-significantly higher than patients. Lower IL-4 levels (267.3 ± 79.95 vs 353.4 ± 320.6 pg/mL; p < .01) and the ratio (2.814 ± 1.335 vs 3.431 ± 1.137; p < .05) were associated with obstructive sleep apnea. Lower ratio was also associated with inferior turbinate hypertrophy (3.051 ± 1.026 vs 3.787 ± 1.310; p < .001). EPO and IL-4 levels were lower in patients with deviated nasal septum (66.69 ± 26.81 vs 84.24 ± 61.5 pg/mL; p < .021; and 299.5 ± 137.3 vs 391.1 ± 52.780 pg/mL; p < .001, respectively). Significant correlations were found between the recorded levels and AR comorbidities.

Conclusion

These results confirmed a pathogenic implication for HIF-1α and IFN-γ in AR that warranted future bigger and longitudinal studies.
Experimental study and modelling of real-scale vertical cable tray fires
Authors: Amokrane Abdenour , Alloschery Guillaume , Gautier Bernard
Published: August 2023

Cables are one of the most important fire loads in nuclear power plants. It is therefore important to understand their fire behaviour and to predict their heat release rate curve. Electricité de France carried out a series of full-scale vertical cable tray fire experiments. Relevant measurement systems were used. The aim of this article is to give an overview of these experiments and their main results. Important aspects of the fire behaviour are discussed and compared with the literature. In addition, two models, namely the FLASH-CAT model and the ISO 18195 vertical cable tray model, are compared to the experiments and their ability to predict the heat release rate profile is discussed. The models are also compared with other real-scale experiments available in the literature. The ISO 18195 model shows good agreement with the different experiments for the heat release rate profile. The FLASH-CAT model obtains reasonable conservative results for the maximum heat release rate. However, the model significantly overestimates the growth rate in all the tests.
“It’s Their Consent You Have to Wait For”: Intimate Partner Violence and BDSM Among Gender and Sexual Minority Youth
Authors: Brewer Nathan Q. , Thomas Kristie A. , Guadalupe-Diaz Xavier
Published: August 2023

Gender and sexual minoritized (GSM) youth are more likely than their cisgender heterosexual peers to experience intimate partner violence (IPV) and practice bondage and discipline, domination and submission, sadism, and masochism (BDSM). Although IPV and BDSM are vastly different phenomena, superficial similarities (e.g., violent behaviors) can lead to misidentification in both practice and research. This study explores how GSM youth (a) experience and understand the differences between IPV and BDSM and (b) report consensual violent and controlling behaviors when answering items on IPV measures. Nine demographically diverse GSM youth (mean age 21.2) were drawn from a GSM youth-serving organization in the Northeast United States. Participants were interviewed about their experiences with IPV, BDSM, and consent. Participants also were asked to describe the process of completing two standardized measures of IPV. Interviews were coded using conventional and directed content analysis. Eight of nine participants reported IPV victimization, and seven reported BDSM interest or experiences. Four themes emerged: (a) GSM youth experience a spectrum of IPV victimization, often related to their gender and sexual identity; (b) interest in BDSM does not imply an acceptance of IPV; (c) GSM youth have a nuanced understanding of consent and strategies to communicate consent with their partners; and (d) Consent is the organizing framework by which GSM youth distinguish IPV from BDSM. Participants reported various degrees of certainty that they would include BDSM behaviors when answering questions about violent behaviors. Findings underscore the importance of conceptually and operationally differentiating IPV and BDSM. Programs that serve GSM youth should address IPV victimization, offer sex-positive education regarding healthy relationships and BDSM, and assist GSM youth in differentiating abusive behaviors from consensual BDSM. Standardized measures that do not conflate BDSM with IPV are crucial for studying IPV among GSM youth.
Evaluation of a Pharmacist-Led COVID-19 Vaccination Program in a Hospital Setting
Authors: John Laura L. , Armbrust Sydney , Haller Irina V. , Renier Colleen M. , Brown Alexa , Monson Elizabeth
Published: August 2023

Purpose: A pharmacist-led COVID-19 vaccination screening and administration tool was implemented at a tertiary care hospital in the Upper Midwest, allowing pharmacists to determine if an inpatient is a candidate for the COVID-19 vaccination. The purpose of this observational study was to examine the feasibility of a pharmacist-led, COVID-19 vaccination administration workflow to the inpatient population in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This observational study was conducted at an Upper-Midwest facility and includes a study population of adult patients admitted to the hospital between 10/1/2021 - 1/1/2022. The primary outcome of this study was the number of COVID-19 vaccinations administered. Secondary outcomes included the number of attending physician approvals, pharmacist time dedicated to the vaccination program, patient demographics, and patient acceptance of vaccination. Group differences were evaluated using odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals, Pearson’s chi-square test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: There were 715 patients eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccination. Of those, 23 (3.2%) patients received a COVID-19 vaccine while inpatient. After adjusting for sex at birth, age at admission, and length of hospital stay, compared to previously unvaccinated patients, those with their second dose due were 7.3 times more likely to have been given a vaccination (95% CI 1.3-42.1, P = 0.026), while patients with their booster due were 4 times more likely to have been given a vaccination (95% CI 1.3-12.3, P = 0.014). Conclusions: Although unvaccinated patients were successfully identified, only 23 were able to be vaccinated. Additional barriers need to be addressed to make this program successful.
The U-Shaped Charitable-Giving Curve
Authors: Hargaden Enda P. , Duquette Nicolas J.
Published: August 2023

Is charitable giving U-shaped in income? That is, do low- and high-income households donate a higher fraction of their income to charity than the middle class? Decades of correlational studies have found that the share of income given to charity follows a U-shape pattern in the United States, but scholars continue to debate whether the apparent U-shape is a statistical mirage, or accurately characterizes giving across the income distribution. We partnered with a real charity to conduct a charitable-giving experiment where relative endowments are revealed to participants. We experimentally verify that random placement in an income distribution causes a U-shaped giving-income curve. The U-shape observed in real-world data therefore is plausibly not spurious, but a real effect of relative economic status on giving decisions.

JEL Classifications: C91, D31, D64, D91, H23
The design of electronically controlled pneumatic brake signal propagation mode for electronic control braking of a 30,000-ton heavy-haul train
Authors: Ma Qun , Yao Yuan , Meng Fanyu , Wei Wei
Published: August 2023

This paper takes 30,000-ton heavy-haul trains as the research object, and studies the propagation characteristics, train braking ability and longitudinal impulse level of three ECP electronic control signal Propagation modes of segmented electro-pneumatic braking under different lag times. The difference between the train’s use of segmented electro-pneumatic braking and air braking in the long ramp operation method is compared. The results show that the best way is when the leading control locomotive sends the ECP signal backward and the slave control locomotive sends the ECP signal both forward and backward. Compared with the worst mode that only the leading control locomotive propagates the ECP signal backward, the coupler force can be reduced by 46.5%, the time difference between the slowest and fastest action vehicles can be reduced by 60.5%, and the emergency braking distance can be reduced by 1.2%. With the increase in the lag time of the slave control locomotive, the differences in the braking capacity and longitudinal impulse level of the three ECP electronic control signal propagation modes decrease. The effectiveness of the slave control locomotive’s ability to send ECP signals is closely related to the lag time of the leading and slave control locomotives. Compared with pure air braking, segmented electro-pneumatic braking can delay the braking times of the last two brakes by 32.6 s and 83.7 s,respectively, during the three-cycle braking, and the starting time of relief can be delayed by 12.7 s, 89.8 s and 16.9 s respectively, and the maximum coupler force can be reduced by 30.1%. The research work of this paper can provide reference for the formulation of electro-pneumatic braking scheme of 30,000-tons heavy-haul train.
Exploring urea hard segment morphology and phase separation behavior in flexible polyurethane foam formulations: Water, lithium chloride and isocyanate structure effects
Authors: El Hatka Hicham , Hafidi Youssef , Ittobane Najim
Published: August 2023

Flexible polyurethane foams (FPUFs) are versatile materials used in various applications due to their unique properties. Understanding the phase separation behavior in FPUFs is crucial for tailoring their properties to specific applications. In this study, we investigated FPUFs with varying levels of urea phase connectivity using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS). We explored the effect of water, lithium chloride, and isocyanate structures on the phase separation behavior by employing these methods. An increase in water content in the FPUF formulation resulted in a higher amount of formed urea and larger globular size of urea aggregates. Incorporating LiCl into FPUF formulations demonstrated its ability to prevent hydrogen bond formation, leading to alterations in the urea phase. Moreover, we found that foams prepared with asymmetric diisocyanates showed difficulty in forming the urea phase, while foams prepared with symmetric and aliphatic diisocyanates readily formed the urea phase. Our study sheds light on the morphology of the urea phase, the packaging nature of the hard segment, and the hydrogen bonding behavior of the FPUFs. These findings contribute to a better understanding of phase separation in FPUFs and offer insights into tailoring their properties for specific applications.
Organizational Culture and Organizational Performance: The Role of Companies of a Developing Economy to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Aguilar-Rodríguez Iliana E. , Barcellos-Paula Luciano , Artieda-Cajilema Carlos Hernán
Published: August 2023

The study sought to understand the relationship between organizational culture (OC) and organizational performance (OP) and included economic activity as a control variable in large and medium-sized companies in Ecuador. The authors collected data from 342 employees from different hierarchical levels and functional and operational areas of different economic activity through online surveys at two points in time. A descriptive analysis and structural equation modelling were applied. The results revealed that the culture of involvement, consistency and mission significantly explained OC. Of these, the mission was the most important. In addition, the research proposes another dimension called commitment. OP was significant for individual-level performance, group-level performance and job stability. In addition, individual-level performance and job stability were best related to business performance. When the type of economic activity is involved, the culture of involvement and consistency is more significant. The outcomes suggest that all the characteristics of OC and OP ensure the integration of strengthened principles into strategies, which, although unrelated to each other, are good predictors for improving corporate governance. Despite the popularity of studies on OC and OP, this research showed that it is still at an early stage of research in emerging economies. It provides managers with knowledge for effective management of the work environment.
A Review on Neuroinflammatory Pathway Mediating Through Ang-II/AT1 Receptors and a Novel Approach for the Treatment of Cerebral Ischemia in Combination with ARB’s and Ceftriaxone
Authors: Rao Gaddam Narasimha , Jupudi Srikanth , Justin Antony
Published: August 2023

Background

Ischemic stroke is one of the prevalent neurodegenerative disorders; it is generally characterized by sudden abruption of blood flow due to thromboembolism and vascular abnormalities, eventually impairing the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the brain for its metabolic needs. Oxygen-glucose deprived conditions provoke the release of excessive glutamate, which causes excitotoxicity.

Recent studies suggest that circulatory angiotensin-II (Ang-II) has an imperative role in initiating detrimental events through binding central angiotensin 1 (AT1) receptors. Insufficient energy metabolites and essential ions often lead to oxidative stress during ischemic reperfusion, which leads to the release of proinflammatory mediators such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and cytokines like interleukin-18 (IL-18) and interleukin- 1beta (IL-1β). The transmembrane glutamate transporters, excitatory amino acid transporter-2 (EAAT-2), which express in astroglial cells, have a crucial role in the clearance of glutamate from its releasing site and convert glutamate into glutamine in normal circumstances of brain physiology.

Key Message

During cerebral ischemia, an impairment or dysfunction of EAAT-2 attributes the risk of delayed neuronal cell death. Earlier studies evidencing that angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) attenuate neuroinflammation by inhibiting the Ang-II/AT1 receptor-mediated inflammatory pathway and that ceftriaxone ameliorates the excitotoxicity-induced neuronal deterioration by enhancing the transcription and expression of EAAT-2 via the nuclear transcriptional factor kappa-B (NF-kB) signaling pathway. The present review will briefly discuss the mechanisms involved in Ang-II/AT1-mediated neuroinflammation, ceftriaxone-induced EAAT-2 expression, and the repurposing hypothesis of the novel combination of ARBs and ceftriaxone for the treatment of cerebral ischemia.
No Simple Way to Say Goodbye! Untangling the Heterogeneity of Social Venture Founder Exit Intention
Authors: Singaram Raja , Kraaijenbrink Jeroen , Gartner William B.
Published: August 2023

Using three theory-based performance criteria as decision attributes, we conducted a conjoint analysis experiment with 105 social venture founder-CEOs to examine their decisions to exit their firms voluntarily. Multilevel regression analysis of founders’ choices revealed that various exit preferences were chosen that did not support theoretical prescriptions. While achieving desired social impact was the main influence on founder exit choices, the heterogeneity of exit preferences led us to parcel them into four distinct groups: idealists, traditionalists, realists, and pragmatists. We discuss our contributions to the entrepreneurial exit and social entrepreneurship research literature and list the implications of our results for practice.
Implementation of Tunneled Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters Placement in Cancer Patients: A Randomized Multicenter Study
Authors: Sheng Yuan , Yang Li-Hong , Wu Yan , Gao Wei , Dongye Sheng-Yi
Published: August 2023

This study sought to evaluate the impact of the subcutaneous tunneling technique on peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement. We randomized 694 patients who needed PICC placement to either the tunneled PICCs (experimental group) or the non-tunneled PICCs (control group) from August to December 2021. The cumulative frequency of complications was assessed as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes comprised of the amount of bleeding, catheter insertion time, self-reported pain score, and one-puncture success rate. After 6 months of follow-up, the tunneled PICCs group showed a significant decrease in the frequency of total complications, especially in infection (3.0% vs. 7.1%, p = .021) and catheter-related thrombosis (3.3% vs. 8.3%, p = .008), although approximately 0.5 ml bleeding and 3.5 min time were increased. This randomized multicenter study supports the efficacy of subcutaneous tunneling technology in reducing PICC-related complications, enhancing patient comfort, and encouraging using subcutaneous tunneling technology for PICC placement.
Who Needs the Government? An Analysis of Managerial Ability and Corporate Political Activity
Authors: Al-Shammari Marwan A. , Brown Lee Warren , Banerjee Soumendra N. , Harris Christopher M.
Published: August 2023

Firms engage in corporate political activity in an attempt to have a voice in the policy conversation. In recent years, CEOs have also increasingly become involved in corporate political activity. This paper investigates how CEO general ability affects the breadth of a company’s lobbying efforts, and how this relationship is moderated by the company’s performance feedback. Our findings indicate that CEO general ability is related to the breadth of lobbying efforts of a company in a curvilinear relationship, and that the gap between the company’s performance aspirations and actual performance moderates this relationship. These results have important implications for understanding the role of CEO ability in shaping corporate political activity.
Skin pigmentation as landmark for arteriovenous fistula cannulation in hemodialysis
Authors: Pinto Rui , Ferreira Emanuel , Sousa Clemente , Barros João Pedro , Correia Ana Luísa , Silva Ana Rita , Henriques Andreia , Mata Fernando , Salgueiro Anabela , Fernandes Isabel
Published: August 2023

Background:

The cannulation of the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for hemodialysis (HD) has traditionally depended on the nurse’s tactile sensation, which has been associated with suboptimal needle placement and detrimental effects on vascular access (VA) longevity. While the introduction of ultrasound (US) has proven beneficial in mapping the AVF outflow vein and assisting in cannulation planning, aneurysmal deformations remain a common occurrence resulting from various factors, including inadequate cannulation techniques. Within this context, the utilization of skin pigmentation as a clinical landmark has emerged as a potential approach to enhance cannulation planning in HD.

Methods:

A prospective longitudinal study was undertaken to investigate the correlation between the occurrence of venous morphological deformations and the cannulation technique guided by skin pigmentation after a 2-month period of implementation.

Results:

Thirty patients were enrolled in the study with 433 cannulations being described within the first 2 months of AVF use. The overall rate of cannulation-related adverse events was 21.9%. Comparative analysis demonstrated a statistically significant relationship ( p < 0.001) between aneurysmal deformation and non-compliance with the proposed cannulation technique, resulting in cannulation outside the designated points. Non-compliance was primarily attributed to nurse’s decision (57.1%).

Conclusion:

The integration of US mapping of the AVF outflow vein and the utilization of skin pigmentation as a guiding tool have shown promising results in enhancing cannulation planning over time. Consistent adherence to a cannulation technique other than the area technique has been found to reduce the risk of AVF morphological deformation. These findings underscore the potential benefits of incorporating skin pigmentation as a clinical landmark in cannulation practices, highlighting its ability to impact positively cannulation outcomes.
Why do Consumers Forgive Online Travel Agencies? A Multi-study Approach
Authors: Kumar Aman , Shankar Amit
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates how consumers respond to online recovery strategies in response to a service failure in the online travel agencies (OTA) context. The study also examines the role of justice and forgiveness in the online service recovery process. Firstly, a qualitative study was employed to explore the predominant strategies exercised by the service providers. Further, we collect the data from a survey ( n = 335) using an online questionnaire about service failure in the OTA context to examine the proposed relationship based on Stimulus–Organism–Response (S-O-R) framework and Justice theory. The data was analysed using CB-SEM and fsQCA. Results show that response speed, explanation, courtesy and problem-solving are crucial online recovery strategies. Results also highlighted that consumers’ perceived justice and forgiveness play a crucial role in the online recovery process. The fsQCA results showed that five solutions (i.e. various combinations of causal antecedents) could facilitate the formation of repatronage intention. Our study enriches service failure literature. Our findings may help online travel agents design suitable strategies to reduce the negative effect of service failure on their customers.
Ignore, Rebut or Embrace: Political Elite Responses to Conspiracy Theories
Authors: Nwokora Zim
Published: August 2023

The attention to and concerns about conspiracy theories have increased in recent years, fuelled by a surge in conspiratorial discourse during the Donald Trump presidency in the United States. Responding to this development, the scholarship on how democracies should deal with conspiracy theories has focused on what new regulations and institutions ought to be introduced to tackle its threats to democracy. In this article, I consider this practical question from a different angle by exploring the discursive strategies that are available to political elites when they encounter a conspiracy theory. I flesh out three general strategies – ignore, rebut and embrace – and identify the circumstances that shape when each strategy should be used in order to maximize the effects of discourse as an anti-conspiracy mechanism. This perspective thereby aims to reveal the elements of skill and nuance that are required of a politician who seeks to engage a conspiracy theory in a way that advances democratic values.
Diversity Intelligent Leadership Coaching in Practice
Authors: Carter Angela D.
Published: August 2023

Background: This paper emphasizes the importance of diversity intelligence (DQ) in leadership coaching to promote workplace diversity awareness and operationalize diversity within organizations, guiding thoughts and actions.

Purpose: The paper outlines and synthesizes leadership development, coaching, and diversity intelligence concepts, providing recommendations for optimal diversity intelligent coaching programs for organizational development.

Research Design: Using a conceptual approach, the paper draws insights from academic sources on leadership, coaching, and diversity intelligence.

Results: It presents a comprehensive overview, emphasizing designing, implementing, and evaluating diversity intelligent leadership coaching programs to foster diversity-aware leaders and inclusive workplaces.

Conclusions: Incorporating DQ principles enhances coaching effectiveness, fostering inclusive leadership and diverse, equitable workplaces. Recommendations guide decision-makers in designing tailored coaching programs.
Weight Management Post-Stroke: A Scoping Review
Authors: Williams Ewan R. , Wilson Hannah K. , Gregory Chris M.
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The aim of this scoping review is to comprehensively review the available literature on the influence of intentional weight loss on physical function and psychosocial outcomes during rehabilitation of chronic stroke survivors. Materials and Methods: Experimental and observational studies evaluating weight loss, physical function, and psychosocial outcomes in chronic stroke survivors were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases using the following search terms: obesity, BMI, body composition, stroke. The search yielded 376 articles. After review of titles, abstracts, and full texts, 4 studies were included in the review. Results: All studies reported significant weight loss and/or improvement in body composition among chronic stroke survivors. In addition, all studies reported significant improvements in at least one measure of physical function, psychosocial outcomes, or both. While these studies met inclusion criteria and, thus, were included in this review, it is noteworthy that methodologies and aims varied significantly. While this review suggests physical function and psychosocial benefits of weight loss in chronic stroke survivors, further attention to this issue by research and funding agencies is imperative to determine the efficacy of weight loss interventions for physical function and psychosocial outcomes among the large population of chronic stroke survivors with obesity.
Chemically reactive MHD fluid flow along with thermophoresis and Brownian effects
Authors: Zaman Saquib Ul , Nauman Aslam Muhammad , Hussain Azad
Published: August 2023

In the current manuscript, the aim of the study is to analyze the Eyring-Powell nanofluid flow under the influence of chemical reaction and radiation effects in a slender cylinder in the presence of a non-linear heat source/sink. The flow of Eyring-Powell nanofluid through a slender cylinder along with chemical reaction and MHD effect is not studied yet. Which is the novelty of current research work. Flow analysis is taken near the stagnation point. MHD effect is considered for controlling turbulence. Rosseland model is applied for the estimation of heat flux. The governing system of PDE’S is converted into highly nonlinear ODE’S by utilizing suitable similarity transformations along with the boundary conditions. The resulting coupled systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODE), accompanied by boundary conditions, are solved using the powerful bvp4c method in MATLAB software. The physical significance of evolved parameters is investigated by graphs and tables. Nusselt number and skin friction are analyzed for several parameters. It is observed that the increase in the MHD effect rises the velocity but lessens the temperature profile and the concentration of the fluid declines when the chemical reaction parameter is incremented. The specific application of the study is that the Eyring-Powell is used in a variety of industrial applications, including lubrication, plastics processing, and oil drilling.
Person-centered care for diverse women: Narrative review of foundational research
Authors: Dong Kelly , Gagliardi Anna R
Published: August 2023

Despite advocacy and recommendations to improve health care and health for persons who identify as women, women continue to face inequities in access to and quality of care. Person-centered care for women is one approach that could reduce gendered inequities. We conducted a series of studies to understand what constitutes person-centered care for women and how to achieve it. The overall aim of this article is to highlight the key findings of those studies that can inform policy, practice, and ongoing research. We conducted a narrative review of all studies related to person-centered care for women conducted in our group starting in 2018 over a 5-year period, which was general at the outset, and increasingly focused on racialized immigrant women who constitute a large proportion of the Canadian population. We organized study summaries by research phase: synthesis of person-centered care for women research, exploration of existing person-centered care for women guidance, consultation with key informants, consensus survey of key informants to prioritize strategies to achieve person-centered care for women, and consensus meeting with key informants to prioritize future research. We conducted the reported research in collaboration with an advisory group of diverse women and managers of community agencies. Our research revealed that little prior research had fully established what constitutes person-centered care for women, and in particular, how to achieve it. We also found little acknowledgment of person-centered care for women or strategies to support it in medical curriculum, clinical guidelines, or healthcare policies. We subsequently consulted women who differed by age, ethno-cultural group, health issue, education and geography, and clinicians of different specialties, who offered considerable insight on strategies to support person-centered care for women. Other diverse women, clinicians, healthcare managers, and researchers prioritized issues that warrant future research. We hope that by compiling a summary of our completed research, we draw attention to the need for person-centered care for women and motivate others to pursue it through policy, practice, and research.
A study of mono-, di- and tri-tosylated amines: An unexpected sulfonamide
Authors: Plater Michael John , Harrison William T. A.
Published: August 2023

2-Aminobenzylaniline was ditosylated and gave an unexpected product N,N-ditosylamino-2-benzylaminobenzene in which the primary amine had ditosylated, and the benzylamine was unreacted. The benzylamine, although more electron rich, is sterically crowded and less nucleophilic than the primary amine in this ditosylated system. Sterically crowded tosylamides were prepared by reacting o-phenylenediamine, p-phenylenediamine and 1,8-diaminonaphthalene with tosyl chloride.
Five historical innovations that have shaped modern orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Patel Ravi , Mcconaghie Greg , Webb Jeremy , Laing Georgina , Philpott Matthew , Roach Richard , Wagner Wilhelm , Rhee Shin-Jae , Banerjee Robin
Published: August 2023

Throughout history, many innovations have contributed to the development of modern orthopaedic surgery, improving patient outcomes and expanding the range of treatment options available to patients. This article explores five key historical innovations that have shaped modern orthopaedic surgery: X-ray imaging, bone cement, the Thomas splint, the Pneumatic tourniquet and robotic-assisted surgery. We will review the development, impact and significance of each innovation, highlighting their contributions to the field of orthopaedic surgery and their ongoing relevance in contemporary and perioperative practice.
Association Between Varicella-Zoster Virus Vaccination and Patient Experience in Elderly Japanese Outpatients: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Inaba Takashi , Haruta Junji , Goto Ryohei , Maeno Tetsuhiro
Published: August 2023

Background:

This study examined the association between patient experience (PX, events experienced by patients during primary care that are an indicator of patient-centered quality) of primary care and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) vaccine uptake in older adults.

Methods:

A case-control study of VZV vaccination was conducted at a community hospital in Ibaraki, Japan. Patients aged 65 years or older who had continuously been patients of the hospital between April 2018 and April 2021 were included in the study. The vaccinated group consisted of 166 VZV-vaccinated patients. The controls consisted of 29 age- and sex-matched patients who did not receive VZV vaccination. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed between August and September 2021. It included the Japanese version of the Primary Care Assessment Tool Short Form (JPCAT-SF) to evaluate PX and included questions about recommendations for VZV vaccination by a physician and the vaccination history of relatives. Multivariable and intermediate factor analyses were used to assess whether there was an association between VZV vaccination and PX.

Results:

Questionnaires were sent to 457 subjects. Responses from 228 (116 in the vaccination group and 112 in the non-vaccinated group) were included in the analysis. Multivariable analysis, which excluded physician recommendation for VZV vaccination as a variable because it was an intermediate factor in the analysis, showed an association between PX and VZV vaccination (odds ratio, 1.38; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.92; P = .049).

Conclusions:

PX was associated with past VZV vaccination. Physician recommendation for VZV vaccination was an intermediate factor between PX and VZV vaccination.