bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Widely targeted quantitative lipidomics reveal lipid remodeling in adipose tissue after long term of the combined exposure to bisphenol A and fructose
Authors: Tang Yonghong , Ou Guifang , Rang Ouyan , Liu Xu , Liu Xiaocheng , Qin Xinru , Li Guojuan , Yang Qing , Wang Mu
Published: February 2024

Adipose tissue is the main organ that stores lipids and it plays important roles in metabolic balance in the body. We recently reported in Human and Experimental Toxicology that the combined exposure to BPA and fructose may interfere with energy metabolism of adipose tissue. However, it is still unclear whether the combined exposure to BPA and fructose has the possibility to induce lipid remodeling in adipose tissue. In the present study, we performed a widely targeted quantitative lipidomic analysis of the adipose tissue of rats after 6 months of BPA and fructose combined exposure. We totally determined 734 lipid molecules in the adipose tissue of rats. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed the group of the combined exposure to higher-dose (25 μg/kg every other day) BPA and fructose can be distinguished from the groups of control, higher-dose BPA exposure and fructose exposure clearly. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and univariate statistical analysis displayed lipids of PC(18:0_ 20:3), TG(8:0_14:0_16:0), TG(12:0_14:0_16:1), TG(10:0_16:0_16:1), TG(12:0_ 14:0_18:1), TG(14:0_ 16:0_16:1), TG(14:0_14:1_16:1), TG(8:0_ 16:1_16:2), TG(14:1_16:1_ 16:1), TG(16:1_18:1_18:1), TG(16:0_16:1_20:4) and TG(15:0_18:1_ 24:1) may contributed the most to the discrimination. These findings indicated that combined exposure to BPA and fructose has the potential to cause lipid remodeling in adipose tissue.
The Relationship Between Per Capita Income and Mortality by COVID-19 of Countries
Authors: Filho Claudiomar Matias Rolim , Tessmann Mathias Schneid , Kumagawa Renan Makoto da Silva
Published: February 2024

This article seeks to investigate the relationship between the per capita income of countries and the deaths resulting from COVID-19 per million inhabitants. For this, information from the twenty-eighth of June 2021 is considered for 186 countries, comprising the five continents. Using the ordinary least squares linear regression technique and data on GDP per capita, human development index, percentage of population with two doses of vaccine, deaths from COVID-19 per million inhabitants, available tests per capita, percentage of population with diabetes, hospital beds available per capita, percentage of the population over 70 years old, population density, democracy index and Gini coefficient, the results show that the countries most vulnerable to the pandemic are those classified as upper-middle-income, with per capita income. Capita, proportion of elderly people and democracy index significantly impact deaths per million inhabitants.
Empirical Study of Employees’ Career Attitudes and Organisational Citizenship Behaviour to Ensure Sound Organisational Health: A Structural Equation Approach
Authors: Joshi Meha
Published: February 2024

In the era of globalisation, a lot of disruptions have brought about radical changes in how businesses operate. This has led to the changing patterns of employer-employee relationships which are important for the health of the organisation. This has called for the need to understand the career attitude of employees, working in the organisations. The purpose of this article is to investigate the relationship between protean career, boundaryless career attitude, organisational mobility preferences and organisational citizenship behaviour (an important parameter of sound organisational health) of Indian millennials. Data from 204 employees, working in multi-national organisations located in Delhi and the NCR region of India, was used to investigate the relationship between the said constructs and their relationship. The study focussed on multi analytical approach using structural equation modelling to study the relationships among the various dimensions. The results of the study show that protean career attitude, boundaryless career attitude and organisational mobility preferences are significantly related to each other. The study would help the organisations to work on designing career coping strategies for the employees to enhance their productivity at work. The study may add some important perspectives to the literature on career already available and may serve as a basis for further enhancing the psychological contract of the current workforce.
Unravelling the Impact of Financial Literacy on the Intention of Indian Retail Investors to Adopt Socially Responsible Investments: The Interplay of Social Self-Efficacy as a Mediating Mechanism
Authors: Kar Debopriya , Patro Binoti
Published: February 2024

In the context of the escalating socio-economic disparities and environmental concerns, this study delves into the intricate interplay among financial literacy (FL), social self-efficacy (SSE) and intentions for socially responsible investment (SRI). Grounded firmly in the theory of planned behaviour, a survey of 235 Indian participants was conducted employing a meticulously structured questionnaire and leveraging Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling software for robust data analysis. The research addresses pivotal questions, examining the impact of FL on fostering positive SRI attitudes, appraising the influence of subjective norms (SNs) on the intentions of Indian investors regarding SRI, and exploring the mediating role of SSE between FL and SRI intentions. The findings underscore the substantive role of FL in shaping positive attitudes towards SRI, exerting a direct influence on SRI propensities. Concurrently, SNs exert a comparable impact on SRI intentions. Notably, the study unravels a dual mediation paradigm, elucidating the sequential mediation of SRI attitude and SSE. The study yields pragmatic implications for fund managers and policymakers. It accentuates the strategic imperative of effective communication of investment benefits, necessitating tailored approaches attuned to cognitive and psychosocial orientations. In essence, the study augments our understanding of the nuanced dynamics guiding sustainable investment decisions, thereby advancing the comprehension of investor behaviour in the domain of responsible investing.
Monetary Policy Efficacy Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Pandemic: Evidence from India
Authors: Kumar Sujit , Kumar Anoop S.
Published: February 2024

Inflation has run higher than the targets of central banks across the globe post the COVID-19 pandemic. India is no exception. The central banks have responded through synchronous interest rate increases. The efficacy of policy measures has been mixed though, underscoring country-specific differences in sources of inflation and monetary transmission across channels. Employing a time-varying vector autoregression framework, we analyse the interaction with output, interest rate and inflation in India. We employ quarterly data on real GDP growth, Wholesale Price Index (WPI) growth, Consumer Price Index (CPI)-Industrial workers (CPI-IW) growth and 1 year-treasury bill rate, from 2005–2006 Q1 to 2021–2022 Q4. We use two measures of inflation to get the dynamics of retail and wholesale inflation. We contrast the interactions of aforesaid variables through time-varying impulse response functions (IRFs) during two big macroeconomic events, namely, the subprime crisis of 2008 and COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. During the subprime crisis in 2008, we saw negligible response in the short, medium and long run. During the COVID-19 period, we find all time-varying IRFs are synchronized. The response of CPI-IW to the interest rate shock is very different from that of WPI, underscoring differences in the composition of these price measures. A shock from the interest rate keeps the CPI-IW stable at best; we do not see any reduction in CPI-IW across the short, medium and long run. The reaction of GDP growth to interest rate shock is rather flat during both the subprime crisis and COVID-19 in the short, medium and long run, pointing towards potential monetary policy ineffectiveness in stimulating the growth.
Royal Enfield’s Plan RE 2.0: Turbulence in Two-wheeler Market
Authors: Gupta Praveen
Published: February 2024

Eicher Motors Limited, custodian of the revered Royal Enfield (RE) motorcycle brand, faced a pivotal moment in 2019 when Siddhartha Lal, the long-standing Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, stepped down, handing over leadership to Vinod Dasari. RE had enjoyed a decade-long dominance in India’s mid-segment motorcycle market (250–750cc). However, recent years ushered in formidable challenges, including stringent emission norms, evolving tax structures, disruptions in transportation and the rise of electric vehicles.

RE navigated the competitive landscape amid the advent of global brands and was caught in a milieu of choices—ranging from product innovation to global expansion. The new leadership, led by Dasari, aimed to strike a delicate balance, addressing challenges in the domestic market and emerging and mature global markets. This case examines the strategic dilemmas and multi-pronged challenges faced by RE as it sought to reshape its trajectory and evolve under Dasari’s guidance during a transformative period in the motorcycle industry.
Preparing for the Future in the Shadow of the Pandemic—The Goat Trust Emerges Digitally
Authors: Sharma Shalaghya , Kumar Amit
Published: February 2024

The founder of a charitable organization dedicated to small livestock management for livelihood generation now confronts the additional challenge of supporting returnee migrant workers who lost their jobs due to COVID-19. Simultaneously, addressing the need to navigate the economy during and after the COVID era became imperative. India’s diverse economic landscape, marked by substantial regional disparities, compels thousands of labourers to migrate annually for a better life.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the plight of these migrant labourers. Faced with joblessness and unable to sustain themselves in large cities, they began returning to their homes. The Goat Trust, actively promoting livelihood development in resource-deprived areas, is exploring avenues to reshape the value network of goat farming in India. The urgency of the situation demands immediate action.

This scenario underscores the potential for social enterprises to play a pivotal role in building the new post-pandemic economy. Organizations like the Goat Trust can seize opportunities presented by this social crisis by upgrading and digitising local economies. This approach is pertinent to India and relevant to the global economy. Focusing on local economic development emerges as a key strategy for alleviating the profound economic depression induced by the pandemic.
Why Do Cooperatives Succeed? A Comparative Analysis of the Global South and North
Authors: Gupta Deepa , Nath Prafulla Kumar
Published: February 2024

This article investigates why only some cooperatives succeed. World Cooperative Monitor 2021 reveals that Europe and USA have maximum high-performing cooperatives (based on turnover), while the representation of developing countries in the list of the world’s top cooperatives is meagre. According to the data source of Cooperative Monitor, out of the top 300 coops worldwide, Europe has 159, the USA has 95, the Asia-Pacific region has only 46, and Africa has none. Therefore, this study becomes very pertinent in understanding the performance differences of cooperatives in the Global South vis-à-vis Global North. This study tries to identify the factors that determine the performance of cooperatives operating in both regions. By using Cooperative Monitor’s (2021) data set, the article tries to link the performance of cooperatives with the macro conditions. The democratic condition of a country (macro-level) may influence the performance of institutions at the meso-level (cooperatives). We found that cooperatives in the Global North in countries with higher democratic values have performed better than the cooperatives in the Global South. The study finds that the performance of cooperatives is positively related to democratic values. However, no significant relationship is found between social inclusiveness and the performance of cooperatives.
Oxyepiberberine from the Active Site of Coptidis Rhizoma Inhibits Lung Adenocarcinoma by Regulating SRC-related Pathways in vivo
Authors: Zhang Ying , Xue Yongqi , Zeng Jing , Wu Hezhen , Yang Yanfang
Published: February 2024

Background

Huanglian (HL), also known as Coptis chinensis Franch., was initially documented in “Sheng Nong’s Herbal Classic” as a high-quality product used to cure ailments such as fever, indigestion, bloating, nausea, dysentery, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tuberculosis. Nowadays, it is extensively employed in clinical settings to alleviate pulmonary diseases, like tuberculosis, lobular lung disease, and pulmonary abscess, and is worth exploring further. Nevertheless, there is limited research on the precise advancements of anti-lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Objectives

Using biological experiments and network pharmacology, the objective of this research was to investigate the most effective parts and chemical constituents of C. chinensis against LUAD and ascertain the probable targets and pathways.

Materials and Methods

First, an MTT experiment verified the impact of each part on A549 and BEAS-2B cells. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was then used to identify the chemical components of the effective substance in C. chinensis against LUAD. Then, network pharmacology was used to screen potential pathways and binding target proteins. Finally, a subcutaneous tumor model was established in mice using LLC cells to observe the effects of the effective components of C. chinensis against LUAD in tumor-bearing mice.

Results

The MTT assay demonstrated the efficacy of oxyepiberberine (OPB) as an anti-LUAD compound with minimal toxicity and side effects. According to the results of network pharmacology and molecular docking, SRC appears to be the primary target of C. chinensis active substance against LUAD. In vivo experiments revealed that the OPB group exhibited lowered toxicity and side effects. Additionally, the density of tumor cells decreased and the nuclei were destroyed in OPB groups of tumor tissues. Finally, OPB could regulate apoptosis, migration, and protein expression significantly related to the SRC pathway in tumor cells.

Conclusion

Our research reveals the anti-LUAD properties of C. chinensis through a combination of experimentation and network analysis. These findings establish a theoretical foundation for C. chinensis as a clinical antitumor agent. Furthermore, our work provided an essential groundwork for further investigations into the medicinal properties of C. chinensis.
The death of Veronica Nelson: Reconsidering the criminalisation of opiate use
Authors: Davison Mark , Keyzer Patrick
Published: February 2024

This article considers the preventable death of Veronica Nelson, an Aboriginal woman who had been denied bail and then suffered a terrible death in custody, which was the subject of recent bail reforms and a Coroner's Report that has recommended sweeping reforms to the management of people in custody. This article considers a reform that the Coroner and the Parliament did not, removing the criminal prohibition on opiate use.
Medium-high frequency vibration control of an industrial pipeline using squeeze-mode magnetorheological dampers
Authors: Dong Xiaomin , Wu Hao , Li Pingyang , Wu LiFan , Ran Jinchao , Wang Kaixiang
Published: February 2024

Due to fluid excitation and the vibration of connected equipment, industrial pipelines are prone to long-term medium-high frequency and small amplitude vibration. Magnetorheological (MR) dampers with a multi-stage squeeze plate structure were proposed to solve the problem of medium-high frequency vibration in the industrial pipeline. The dynamic characteristics of the industrial pipeline were analyzed to determine the installation position of the MR dampers. The mechanical properties of the proposed squeeze-mode MR dampers were tested, and the hyperbolic tangent mechanical model of the MR damper was established. The vibration control model of the industrial pipeline was built for simulation analysis. In addition, the Acceleration-Driven-Damper (ADD) control and the Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) control were used for simulation to predict the vibration reduction effect. Constant current experiments and control algorithm experiments were carried out on the vibration control platform of the industrial pipeline. The experimental results show that the maximum vibration attenuation rate of the MR dampers with constant current reaches 61.95%, while those with ADD control and PID control are 65.43% and 67.46%, respectively. Therefore, the squeeze-mode MR dampers can effectively reduce the medium-high frequency vibration of the industrial pipeline, and the control algorithms can further improve the vibration reduction performance.
Attenuation characteristics of concrete using smart aggregate transducers: Experiments and numerical simulations of P-wave propagation
Authors: Sun Xiaohui , Fan Shuli , Liu Chunguang
Published: February 2024

Concrete is a highly heterogeneous construction material. Waves that propagate through concrete face significant reflection, scattering, and attenuation issues. Understanding the behavior of waves as they propagate through concrete and arrive at a sensor has generated much attention, especially for developing real-world field applications. In this study, a predictive model of attenuated P-wave propagation using Rayleigh damping is presented. The method used frequency excitations ranging from 20 to 200 kHz and smart aggregates (SAs) were embedded in a concrete specimen to excite and receive P-waves. Moreover, 10 distances were marked opposite the exciter at two propagation paths. In the simulations and experiments, signal processing methods were utilized to extract the first arrival packet for calculating amplitude attenuation. The P-wave damping coefficient was modeled using the multi-physical finite element method, and the results of the predictive model were compared with the experimental results. A discussion on the utilization of frequency-dependent attenuation coefficients was conducted to explore potential P-wave attenuation factors and their respective contributions to the overall attenuation. Numerical studies have demonstrated a strong correlation with the experiments when an appropriate level of material damping coefficient was considered. By enhancing the overall comprehension of the P-wave damping coefficient and attenuation characteristics within concrete, damage detection techniques based on P-waves can be improved.
How Game Ecology Drives Player Choices in Strategy Video Games: An Environmental Determinism Perspective
Authors: Feng Zihan
Published: February 2024

Background

Recent years have witnessed increasing attention on the study of game ecology, the virtual environments, and underlying mechanics within games. Yet, these studies often focus on the active role that players have in changing game ecology, while overlooking the reciprocal influence between game ecology and players.

Methods

This study investigates the potential impact of game ecology on player choices from an environmental determinism perspective—the development of humanity is shaped by the physical environment. This new perspective is substantiated by a case study of two strategy games, Sid Meier's Civilization VI and Humankind, using an immersive-participatory method to analyze their game mechanics.

Results

This study identifies four major forms of game mechanics that use game ecology to influence player choices: spatial constraints, movement modifiers, uncommon events, and dynamic indexes.

Discussion

This study discusses how the identified game mechanics reflect environmental determinism and contrast with the conventional ideology of cultural determinism. Additionally, environmental determinism in video games, derived from a broader social background, is constantly evolving into new forms.

Conclusion

This study introduces a new perspective of environmental determinism for analyzing the interaction between game ecology and players. This approach has the potential to offer valuable insights into guiding future game design and research endeavors.
Environmental Regulation Design: Motivating Firms’ Clean Technology Investments With Penalties and Subsidies
Authors: Mohammadi Mina , Sebastian Heese H. , Kraft Tim
Published: February 2024

The recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) includes a number of incentive-based programs (e.g., tax credits) designed to motivate firms to develop new clean technologies for fighting climate change. However, the IRA also includes a fee firms incur for excessive methane emissions. This represents the first time the United States government has ever levied a fee on greenhouse gas emissions, and it raises an interesting research question—how should a budget-constrained regulator balance the use of both incentive and penalty-based levers for stimulating investment in clean technology development? In this paper, we examine a regulator’s optimal penalty and subsidy decisions for motivating firms to invest in clean technology development. We illustrate how the level of competitive intensity in the market can influence a budget-constrained regulator with multiple competing objectives—the environment, firm profits, and consumer welfare. We find that a subsidy is always beneficial, irrespective of the regulator’s objective. While imposing a firm penalty always benefits the environment, it always negatively impacts the sum of firm profits and consumer welfare. However, depending on the level of competition in the market, instances can occur where imposing a high penalty actually benefits total firm profits or consumer welfare (separately). Interestingly, a regulator that cares about all three dimensions of its objective equally, should always set the penalty to either its minimum or maximum value, depending on whether the environmental cost of the harmful product is high or low.
Towards Achieving Mental Health Equity for the Underserved Population: Evaluating the Potential of Mobile Apps
Authors: Tang Yi , Sinha Kingshuk K , Moen Adam , Ertekin Necati
Published: February 2024

The underserved population—i.e., individuals who identify themselves as non-female, non-heterosexual, or non-White—have long faced inequities when accessing traditional clinic-based mental health services. Individuals from the underserved population tend to use and benefit from these services less than their better-served counterparts (i.e., those who identify themselves as female, heterosexual, and White). This study investigates whether similar inequities exist within the context of mobile apps specifically designed to provide self-support and peer-support. To this end, we conduct an empirical analysis using longitudinal user-level data collected from a mental health mobile app (MHMA). Our results indicate that: (i) in contrast to the traditional clinic-based mental health services, in a MHMA setting, users from the underserved population engage with the app services and derive similar benefits as much as their better-served counterparts; and (ii) there is a positive relationship between app usage frequency and the mental condition of app users. Our post-hoc analysis uncovers that the MHMA promotes equitable usage and benefit for users: (i) from the underserved population via self-management functions that enable self-support; and (ii) from the better-served population via online community functions that facilitate peer-support. These findings suggest that MHMAs have the potential to achieve equity through both user engagement and the benefits derived from such engagement. We conclude by discussing the implications for mobile app firms, policymakers, and organizations in their efforts to achieve mental health equity for the underserved population.
The Effect of Supply Uncertainty on Dynamic Procurement and Pricing Strategies Under Lost Sales
Authors: Feng Qi Annabelle , Li Lei , Shanthikumar J George
Published: February 2024

The uncertainty in the supplier’s material flows has become a norm rather than an exception in supply chains. The supply uncertainty can result in unexpected inventory shortfall, amplifying lost sales. However, the design of inventory replenishment and product pricing policy to mitigate both supply uncertainty and demand loss remains unexplored. This is because the resulting dynamic planning problem is highly nonconcave and thus intractable. To address this challenge, we propose an approach that focuses on a class of intuitively appealing and practically plausible policies. Specifically, as the level of on-hand inventory increases, we expect an increased amount of demand fulfillment and a decreased product price. Applying the notions of stochastic functions, we show that, under general conditions of the stochastic supply and demand functions, the dynamic planning problem becomes a concave optimization problem over the restricted policy class. We further reduce the set of candidate policies to a refined class by excluding the dominated policies. A refined policy can be easily computed, and appropriately selected refined policies produce close-to-optimal profits. These developments allow us to evaluate the consequences of demand loss. In particular, demand retention through backordering can be beneficial when overstocking is costly in relation to understocking, but the benefit is insensitive to supply and demand uncertainties. Moreover, inventory-based dynamic pricing is more valuable in mitigating supply risk under lost sales than under backordering.
When Science Meets Art on Instagram: Examining the Effects of Visual Art on Emotions, Interest, and Social Media Engagement
Authors: Villanueva Isabel I. , Li Nan , Jilk Thomas , Renner Julianne , Van Matre Brianna Rae , Brossard Dominique
Published: February 2024

While artistic representations of scientific subjects, phenomena, and data have gained traction on social media, their effects on audience engagement remain understudied. Using an experiment with Instagram users in the United States ( N = 655), this study found that exposure to artistic representations of COVID-19 information on Instagram significantly increased individuals’ interest and positive emotions compared with exposure to informationally equivalent data graphs. Positive emotions also mediated the relationship of art exposure on one’s liking and sharing of Instagram posts. We discuss the potential roles of visual art and social media in shaping public engagement with science.
Help-Seeking and Service Utilization Among Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence in Michigan During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Shyrokonis Yuliya , Peitzmeier Sarah , Ward Malorie , Fedina Lisa , Tolman Rich , Herrenkohl Todd I.
Published: February 2024

This study explores formal and informal intimate partner violence (IPV) service use among women and transgender/nonbinary individuals in the state of Michigan during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 14.8% ( N = 173) of participants experienced IPV during this period, and 70% utilized at least one formal IPV service (13.3%). Up to 22% of survivors reported wanting to seek formal help but not doing so due to fear of partner reprisal, contracting COVID-19, or COVID-related service reductions. White, pregnant, and part-time-employed survivors were most likely to seek informal help. Older, higher-income, white, part-time-employed, pregnant, and non-essential worker survivors were most likely to seek formal help.
Linear elastic diatomic multilattices: Three-dimensional constitutive modeling and solutions of the shift vector equation
Authors: Sfyris Dimitrios , Sfyris Georgios I
Published: February 2024

Diatomic multilattices are congruences of simple lattices each made out of atoms of two possible chemical species. We here constitutively characterize, in three dimensions, diatomic multilattices for the geometrically and materially linear elastic regime. We give the most generic expression for the energy for [Formula: see text] diatomic multilattices and characterize explicitly the tensors present in such an expression for all 122 two-color point groups. For the specific case of diatomic 2- and 3-lattices, we delineate how one can solve the shift vector equation in the static case. For cases where the unique solution of the shift vector in terms of the strain tensor is not possible, we give conditions for the existence of solutions based on the standard Fredholm alternative theorem.
A study on the effect of defects on the buckling of double-walled carbon nanotubes under compression based on a new atomic-continuum coupling method
Authors: Wang Xiangyang , Qi Huibo , Li Jiqiang , Bi Junying , Qiao Renpeng , Zhang Jingrui
Published: February 2024

An atomic-continuum coupling (ACC) method is developed for the nonlinear mechanical analysis of defective double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs). The moving least squares (MLS) approximation is resorted to bridge the fully atomic discrete structures of defective DWCNTs and the corresponding virtual continuum solids. The intrinsic mechanic laws implied in nanostructures can be accurately mapped into the mechanical governing equations of the continuum models. Based on ACC method, a numerical computational scheme is developed for predicting the buckling and contact behaviors of defective DWCNTs, which do not need any numerical integration method to calculate potential functional and its derivatives. The numerical tests show that this method can furnish good predictions even with a small number of nodes. It is found that Stone–Wales (SW) defects can lead to greatly decrease in the buckling properties of DWCNTs. In contrary, the complex interlayer van der Waals (vdW) interactions can enhance the buckling resistance of DWCNTs.
An analytical solution for the orthotropic semi-infinite plane with an arbitrary-shaped hole
Authors: Zhou Yulin , Lu Aizhong , Zhang Ning
Published: February 2024

The application of analytical methods to solve the problem of an anisotropic semi-infinite plane with a hole has not been observed thus far. This paper presents an analytical solution for an orthotropic semi-infinite plane with an arbitrary-shaped hole, considering the condition of a uniform stress applied at the hole boundary. First, the shapes of holes on the [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-planes are determined based on the shape of the hole on the z-plane. Next, the regions outside the holes on these physical planes are mapped to the rings on the [Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-planes, respectively. Therefore, the boundary conditions with [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] as independent variables are established. Then, the boundary collocation method is used to solve the stress boundary conditions along the upper boundary and the hole boundary, thereby obtaining two analytical functions for calculating the stress and displacement of the structure. Finally, the correctness of the proposed method is verified by conducting boundary condition checks and comparing the stress and displacement results obtained by the proposed method with those obtained from ANSYS, and further investigates the influence of anisotropic parameters on normal stress and displacement.
Diagnostic Utility of Conners Continuous Performance Test-3 for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Callan P. Douglas , Swanberg Stephanie , Weber Sarah K , Eidnes Kari , Pope Tara M. , Shepler Dustin
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To review the literature on the utility of the Conners CPT-3 in persons with ADHD.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted. Six databases were searched using inclusion criteria: research studies, year 2000+, English, and ages 8+. Two raters independently screened 1,480 title/abstracts and subsequently reviewed 399 full texts. Data extraction and critical appraisal were conducted. Reflective thematic analysis through inductive coding identified qualitative themes.

Results:

Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria with five themes identified. Five studies found CPT-3 was a weak or poor predictor of ADHD diagnosis while two found it was an adequate predictor. Two studies found CPT-3 could differentiate clients with comorbid ADHD/anxiety from ADHD or ADHD from obsessive-compulsive disorder. One found CPT-3 could not differentiate ADHD from ASD or comorbid ADHD/ASD.

Conclusions:

Results revealed CPT-3 as a standalone measure is a weak or poor predictor of ADHD. Multiple measures for evaluating persons with ADHD are recommended.
Effects of Five Common Preparatory Approaches on Grand Jeté Biomechanics
Authors: Weigand Victoria , Mokha G. Monique
Published: February 2024

Introduction: The grand jeté requires grace and proper biomechanics to produce the iconic glide through the air. Understanding how the preceding choreographed movements affect take-off and flight may influence teaching and training. We sought to examine the effects of 5 common preparatory approaches on grand jeté biomechanics. Methods: One male and 19 female dancers (19.3 ± 1.4 years; 1.61 ± 0.05 m; 58.1 ± 7.3 kg) with 12.5 ± 4.8 years of formal ballet experience performed grand jetés from run, chaine, chasse, assemble, and step-step approaches. Plié angle (deg), vGRF (BW), leap height (m), and leap distance (m) were measured with a motion analysis system and a force plate. One-way repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to compare variables between approaches and Bonferroni tests were used for pairwise comparisons. Results: Plié depth, vGRF, leap height, and leap distance were all significantly different ( P < .001). Plié angles (43.6-68.2 deg) were deepest for the assemble and shallowest for the run. vGRF (2.46-3.81 BW) were greatest for the assemble versus all but the run, and smallest for the chaine. Leap height (0.33-0.41 m) was highest for the run versus the chaine and step-step, but not versus assemble. Height was lowest for the chaine. Leap distance (0.24-1.03 m) was longest for the run and shortest for the assemble. Conclusions: The run approach optimizes the float through the air illusion (high leap height and distance) through applying high vGRF but moderate plié angles. The chasse approach is the next most optimal. The 2-legged assemble requires deeper plié angles to achieve height but produces shorter horizontal distances. Single leg plié training may enhance grand jeté performance and reduce injury risk from approaches such as the run, chaine, chasse, and step-step.

Level of Evidence: Level 2
First-in-human feasibility study of the aXess graft (aXess-FIH): 6-Month results
Authors: Tozzi Matteo , De Letter Jan , Krievins Dainis , Jushinskis Janis , D’Haeninck Annick , Rucinskas Kestutis , Miglinas Marius , Baltrunas Tomas , Nauwelaers Sigi , De Vriese An S , Moll Frans , Vermassen Frank
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The creation of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is considered the most effective hemodialysis (HD) vascular access. For patients who are not suitable for AVF, arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are the best access option for chronic HD. However, conventional AVGs are prone to intimal hyperplasia, stenosis, thrombosis, and infection. Xeltis has developed an AVG as a potential alternative to currently available AVGs based on the concept of endogenous tissue restoration. The results of the first 6-month follow-up are presented here.

Methods:

The aXess first-in-human (FIH) study [NCT04898153] is a prospective, single-arm, multicenter feasibility study that evaluates the early safety and performance of the aXess Hemodialysis Graft. A total of 20 patients with end-stage renal disease were enrolled across six European investigational sites.

Results:

At 6-months follow-up, all grafts were patent with primary and secondary patency rates were 80% and 100%, respectively. Three patients required a re-intervention to maintain graft patency, while one re-intervention was required to restore patency. One graft thrombosis and zero infections were reported.

Conclusion:

The expected advantages of the novel aXess Hemodialysis Graft over conventional AVGs would be evaluated by the analysis on long-term safety and effectiveness during the 5-year follow-up of the currently ongoing trial.
Safety and efficacy of a new covered stent in hemodialysis vascular access outflow stenosis: A Brazilian multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Harduin Leonardo de Oliveira , Barroso Thiago Almeida , Guerra Julia Bandeira , Filippo Márcio Gomes , de Almeida Leonardo Cortizo , Vieira Brunno Ribeiro , Mello Renata Silveira , Galhardo Adriano Martins , Castro-Santos Guilherme de , Virgini-Magalhães Carlos Eduardo , Strogoff-de-Matos Jorge Paulo
Published: February 2024

Background:

Vascular stenosis commonly leads to dysfunction in hemodialysis vascular access. Although percutaneous transluminal angioplasty is an established treatment, stent utilization has increased in the last decade as an alternative solution to extend the access function. This study evaluated the safety and initial results of a new impermeable covered stent for treating vascular access outflow stenosis.

Methods:

Investigators retrospectively analyzed 114 hemodialysis patients treated with polytetrafluorethylene-covered stents from September 2018 to September 2022 across four centers. Lesions treated were de novo or restenotic and located in the venous graft anastomosis, outflow segment, cephalic arch, and basilic swing point. Patients were followed by in-person physical examination at 1, 3, and 6 months, and Duplex ultrasound was performed to evaluate the vascular access circuit and in-stent restenosis. The primary efficacy endpoint was target lesion primary patency at 1, 3, and 6 months. Secondary endpoints included access circuit primary patency and secondary patency at 1, 3, and 6 months. The primary safety endpoint was freedom from local or systemic serious adverse events through 30 days post-procedure.

Results:

Forty-four patients had thrombosed access at the initial presentation, and 41 patients presented with recurrent stenosis. The target lesion primary patency rates at 1, 3, and 6 months were 100%, 89.4%, and 74%, respectively. The access circuit primary patency rates were 100% at 1 month, 85% at 3 months, and 62.7% at 6 months. The secondary patency rates at 1, 3, and 6 months were 100%, 96.4%, and 94.6%, respectively. In the adjusted multivariate Cox regression analysis, only recurrent lesions and female gender were associated with reduced primary patency rates. No serious adverse event was observed through the first 30 days post-procedure.

Conclusion:

In this retrospective analysis, a new covered stent was shown to be safe and effective for treating peripheral outflow stenosis in vascular access.
Vascular access challenges in hemodialysis patients with superior vena cava syndrome
Authors: D’Amico Rosalinda , Nicoli Andrew , Zdoroveac Andrei , Gürke Lorenz , Isaak Andrej
Published: February 2024

Background:

Superior vena cava syndrome in hemodialysis patients resulting from previous or current use of a tunneled central vein catheter is a rare but potentially severe condition. Two aspects have to be addressed during management and treatment: the restoration of central venous flow and the creation of an alternative vascular access to guarantee hemodialysis.

Research design:

Conforming to the current guidelines and literature, we present a stepwise approach and discuss therapeutic options. The removal of the tunneled central vein catheter should be attempted and a native vascular access created whenever feasible.

Results:

First, an upper extremity AVF should be preserved or, as in our case, made functional. Endovascular treatment of CVSO should primarily consist of balloon dilatation. Placement of a stent or stent graft should be considered as a secondary option. HeRO graft placement may be considered in recurrent CVSO and recanalization with a Surfacer. LL-AVF or AVG need to be discussed and may be an alternative for certain HD patients when the risk of lower limb ischemia and infection is considered.

Conclusion:

Several therapeutic options are available and the basic principles are well established in the literature, although the level of evidence is not high. Therefore, we propose a stepwise and interdisciplinary approach to guide the challenging decision-making process in SVC.
Longitudinal enlargement of choroid plexus is associated with chronic lesion expansion and neurodegeneration in RRMS patients
Authors: Klistorner Samuel , Barnett Michael H , Wang Chenyu , Parratt John , Yiannikas Con , Klistorner Alexander
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective:

We explored dynamic changes in the choroid plexus (CP) in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and assessed its relationship with chronic lesion expansion and atrophy in various brain compartments.

Methods:

Fifty-seven RRMS patients were annually assessed for a minimum of 48 months with 3D FLAIR, pre- and post-contrast 3D T1 and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The CP was manually segmented at baseline and last follow-up.

Results:

The volume of CP significantly increased by 1.4% annually. However, the extent of CP enlargement varied considerably among individuals (ranging from −3.6 to 150.8 mm3 or −0.2% to 6.3%). The magnitude of CP enlargement significantly correlated with central ( r = 0.70, p < 0.001) and total brain atrophy ( r = −0.57, p < 0.001), white ( r = −0.61, p < 0.001) and deep grey matter atrophy ( r = −0.60, p < 0.001). Progressive CP enlargement was significantly associated with the volume and extent of chronic lesion expansion ( r = 0.60, p < 0.001), but not with the number or volume of new lesions.

Conclusion:

This study provides evidence of progressive CP enlargement in patients with RRMS. Our findings also demonstrate that enlargement of the CP volume is linked to the expansion of chronic lesions and neurodegeneration of periventricular white and grey matter in RRMS patients.
University Work Experiences in International Development: Expanding Locations, Spaces and Pathways
Authors: Schwittay Anke
Published: February 2024

How can university work experiences contribute to reframing International Development from expert saviourism rooted in colonial legacies into a project of social justice and global solidarity? In this article, I propose the design of work-experiential pedagogies that integrate practical work experiences with critical theoretical teaching and an emphasis on students’ experiential knowledge. Such pedagogies call for an expansion of the forms of university work experiences, challenging students to reflect on their manifold personal and institutional locations, to explore the diverse spaces in which work experiences can take place and to experiment with multiple pathways for change. My proposal draws on teaching examples and student journeys at my home university in the UK.
Assessing Impact Amongst Chaplains in a University Setting: Phase Two of an Action Research Project
Authors: Miller Sue , Stephens Christopher W B
Published: February 2024

This article, the result of an Action Research project, describes the process of creating and testing a resource for assessing the contribution of chaplaincy in a British university setting, and the resultant insights and outcomes: organisational and individual learning, changes in chaplains’ attitudes to monitoring and evaluation, and a resource which is perceived as having benefits and limitations. This article considers the evaluation process as applied to chaplaincy and offers a model for further testing.
The Northern New England Rapid Deployment Valve Experience: Survival and Procedural Outcomes From 2015 to 2021
Authors: Fallon John M. , Malenka David J. , Ross Cathy S. , Ramkumar Niveditta , Seshasayee Shravanthi M. , Westbrook Benjamin M. , Hirashima Fuyuki , Quinn Reed D.
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The optimal approach and choice of initial aortic valve replacement (AVR) is evolving in the growing era of transcatheter AVR. Further survival and hemodynamic data are needed to compare the emerging role of rapid deployment (rdAVR) versus stented (sAVR) valve options for AVR.

Methods:

The Northern New England Cardiovascular Database was queried for patients undergoing either isolated AVR or AVR + coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with rdAVR or sAVR aortic valves between 2015 and 2021. Exclusion criteria included endocarditis, mechanical valves, dissection, emergency case status, and prior sternotomy. This resulted in a cohort including 1,616 sAVR and 538 rdAVR cases. After propensity weighting, procedural characteristics, hemodynamic variables, and survival outcomes were examined.

Results:

The breakdown of the overall cohort (2,154) included 1,164 isolated AVR (222 rdAVR, 942 sAVR) and 990 AVR + CABG (316 rdAVR, 674 sAVR). After inverse propensity weighting, cohorts were well matched, notable only for more patients <50 years in the sAVR group (4.0% vs 1.9%, standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.12). Cross-clamp (89 vs 64 min, SMD = −0.71) and cardiopulmonary bypass (121 vs 91 min, SMD = −0.68) times were considerably longer for sAVR versus rdAVR. Immediate postreplacement aortic gradient decreased with larger valve size but did not differ significantly between comparable sAVR and rdAVR valve sizes or overall (6.5 vs 6.7 mm Hg, SMD = 0.09). Implanted rdAVR tended to be larger with 51% either size L or XL versus 37.4% of sAVR ≥25 mm. Despite a temporal decrease in pacemaker rate within the rdAVR cohort, the overall pacemaker frequency was less in sAVR versus rdAVR (4.4% vs 7.4%, SMD = 0.12), and significantly higher rates were seen in size L (10.3% vs 3.7%, P < 0.002) and XL (15% vs 5.6%, P < 0.004) rdAVR versus sAVR. No significant difference in major adverse cardiac events (4.6% vs 4.6%, SMD = 0.01), 30-day survival (1.5% vs 2.6%, SMD = 0.08), or long-term survival out to 4 years were seen between sAVR and rdAVR.

Conclusions:

Rapid deployment valves offer a safe alternative to sAVR with significantly decreased cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times. Despite larger implantation sizes, we did not appreciate a comparative difference in immediate postoperative gradients, and although pacemaker rates are improving, they remain higher in rdAVR compared with sAVR. Longer-term hemodynamic and survival follow-up are needed.
Inclusive Practice and Comparative Social Impact of Disability Arts: A Qualitative and Abductive Approach
Authors: Grabowski Simone , Darcy Simon , Maxwell Hazel , Onyx Jenny
Published: February 2024

This study comparatively examined two disability arts partnership projects’ stakeholder perspectives on inclusive practice and social impact. It did so through an innovative abductive research design to visualise the qualitative findings of a comparative social impact assessment of active citizenship. In this paper we examine the inclusive practices of the disability arts partnership projects and an inclusive methodological approach. The approach sought to visualise the social impact footprint, or scope, of disability arts projects on radar diagrams. In developing this approach, we were able to document the enabling outcomes for the lived experience of artists with disability. The research has implications for the inclusion of artists with disability as part of disability specific art projects, ensembles of artists with disability together with nondisabled artists, and the way that creative process outcomes have social impact on the stakeholders and communities where they are performed. For the organisations involved the project demonstrates the wider outcomes of the artistic practice through the social impact of their disability arts programs on their internal and external stakeholders. Further, for arts funders it provides a tool for comparative understanding of social impact across programs.