bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composite membrane containing phytic acid-functionalized metal-organic frameworks for enhanced ion selectivity
Authors: Zhang Yuxia , Liu Haojie , Liu Min , Zhang Yitian , Ding Chenjing , Gong Yunyun
Published: June 2024

The application of sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) membrane in vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) is hindered by the trade-off between proton conductivity and ion selectivity. To optimize its performance, the metal-organic frameworks loaded with phytic acid (PA-UiO-66-NH2) are introduced into the SPEEK matrix to construct a proton-selective transport channel. Better proton conductivity and ion selectivity are achieved in composite membranes due to the unique porous structure and chemical characteristics of PA-UiO-66-NH2 fillers. When the PA-UiO-66-NH2 content is at 2 wt%, the S/PA-UiO-66-NH2-2 membrane exhibits higher proton conductivity (35.3 mS cm−1) and ion selectivity (41.0 × 103 S min cm−3) compared to other composite membranes, pristine SPEEK and commercial Nafion 212 membranes. As a result, the S/PA-UiO-66-NH2-2 membrane shows excellent energy efficiencies (88.1%-74.0%) at current densities ranging from 60 to 180 mA cm−2. The cell efficiencies maintain stability during the 300 times charge-discharge cycle, proving the outstanding stability and durability of the S/PA-UiO-66-NH2-2 membrane in a strong acidic and oxidizing environment. These results suggest that the combination of phytic acid and metal-organic framework can effectively improve the performance of the membranes, and it also can be further utilized to solve other challenges in the membrane separation field.
Machinability investigation and surface modification of nano-TiB2 and AlN grafted MWCNT hybridized Al 7075 matrix ternary composite through powder-mixed EDM
Authors: Pradhan Rahul Chandra , Das Diptikanta , Sahoo Barada Prasanna , Samal Chandrika
Published: June 2024

This paper accentuates powder-mixed electrical discharge machining (EDM) performance of a newly designed nano-TiB2 and AlN grafted multiwall carbon nano-tube (MWCNT) hybridized Al 7075 matrix ternary composite. The hybrid metal matrix composite (MMC) was fabricated through squeeze casting route, preceded by two-stage reinforcement addition, mechanical agitation, and ultrasonic treatment. EDM was carried out using cryogenic treated Cu electrode and Al2O3 particle-mixed dielectric medium. Influence of EDM process variables, that is, peak current ( I P), pulse-on time ( T ON), and powder concentration ( P C) on machinability of the hybrid MMC was studied considering material removal rate (MRR), tool wear rate (TWR), and average surface roughness ( Ra) as quality indicators. Effects of machining and Al2O3 particle addition on surface morphology of the hybrid MMC were also explored through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and elemental mapping. Results reveal elevation of MRR, reduction of TWR and improvement of surface finish during powder-mixed EDM in comparison to the non-mixed (conventional) EDM. Maximum traces of Al2O3 particle deposition was identified on the machined surfaces while using the powder concentration of 1.5 g/l within the dielectric.
What Matters in Choosing School for Children’s Education? Experiences from Kottayam, Kerala
Authors: Krishna Nair J  , Mishra Pulak
Published: June 2024

While the role of education in fostering social stability and increasing a country’s human capital is well recognised, there are debates on policies and institutional arrangements in this regard. In particular, parents’ choice of schools appears to be a critical issue as it can influence both educational outcomes and inclusiveness. Given that there is a broader homogeneity in infrastructure facilities available at both household and school levels, one would expect that household-related factors will influence the choice of schooling of children. This article examines such household-level factors that influence households’ choice of schools for children in selected areas of Kottayam District, Kerala. A primary survey was conducted in December 2021 comprising 300 households. Based on the results of the estimated binary logit and probit models, this article reports that the choice of school for children is significantly influenced by households’ ethnic background and economic status, and sex, education, and primary occupation of the family head. There is a higher likelihood of choosing public schools by households from the Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe category, those living below the poverty line, or those with agriculture as the primary occupation. On the contrary, this likelihood is less for households with educated and male heads. However, the choice of school for children does not differ significantly between rural and urban households. Further, there is no gender inequality in choosing schools. The findings suggest that future government policies should emphasise infrastructure development and quality improvement in government schools to promote socio-economic inclusion in education.
Surface electromyography analysis of ankle flexor and extensor activity under different standing stability levels
Authors: Wu Fangchao , Zhang Jiahe , Yang Kezhen , Li Yangzhen , Li Zetong , Li Tian , Li Jianhua
Published: June 2024

Background: To observe the activation strategies of the ankle muscles using surface electromyography (sEMG) during single-leg standing (SLS) and both-leg standing (BLS) on flat ground (FG), soft mat (SM), and BOSU ball (BB) surfaces. Methods: Thirty healthy young adults participated in the study. The muscle activities of the tibialis anterior (TA) and gastrocnemius medial (GM) were measured on the three surfaces during SLS and BLS. Electromyographic evaluations of the TA and GM were recorded during maximum voluntary isometric contractions (MVIC). Muscle activation was evaluated using MVIC%, and muscle co-contraction was evaluated using the co-contraction index (CI). Results: A statistically significant increase was observed in the MVIC% of the TA, GM, and CI on the three surfaces during SLS compared to BLS, except for the comparison of CI on BB between SLS and BLS (t = −1.35, p = 0.19). The MVIC% of the TA and GM during SLS and BLS on BB was significantly increased in comparison with FG and SM. The CI during BLS on BB increased compared to FG (t = 3.19, p < 0.01) and SM (t = 4.64, p < 0.01). The CI during BLS on SM (t = −1.46, p = 0.15) decreased when compared to FG but without statistical significance. Conclusions: SLS and unstable surfaces can induce greater muscle activation, and SLS can have a greater influence on ankle muscles.
Paternal Self-Efficacy Scale for Nonresident Fathers: Scale Development and Validation
Authors: Trahan Mark H. , Banman Aaron , Fagan Jay
Published: June 2024

Previous research points to the importance of parenting self-efficacy in facilitating father engagement, thereby promoting optimal developmental outcomes in children. Nonresident fathers’ engagement differs from resident fathers, resulting in a need for a novel measure of paternal self-efficacy (PSE). This article presents two studies: Study 1—the development of a measure of nonresident PSE and Study 2—the validation of this measure with low-income, nonresident fathers. Nine focus groups were conducted at nine urban responsible fatherhood programs in low-income, high-poverty areas in the northeastern United States ( n = 71), yielding seven items for PSE. The Father Appraisal Inventory (FAI) was disseminated through a survey to nonresident fathers ( n = 542) in responsible father programs to assess convergent and predictive validity. Analyses demonstrated convergence with father satisfaction and predicted quantity and quality of father involvement and co-parenting.
Resident Care in the “In-Between Time”: Cross-Sector Perspectives on Enhancing Synergy Between Palliative Care and Permanent Supportive Housing
Authors: Johnson Ian M. , Traver Anthony C. , Light Michael A.
Published: June 2024

Despite established disparities in serious illness prevalence among formerly homeless people living in permanent supportive housing, there is a dearth of research aimed at promoting and enhancing palliative care service delivery in this setting. This paper describes current practices, perceived barriers, and recommendations in permanent supportive housing for residents living with serious illness through a thematic analysis of interviews with cross-sector stakeholders ( n = 30) from the Research and Supportive Care at Later-life for Unhoused People (RASCAL-UP) study. Themes identified across resident care, program collaboration, and policy and environment areas included: (1) unique resident care needs; (2) on-site relationships; (3) adaptation of aging, disability, and healthcare services for residents; (4) internal implementation barriers; (5) preparing the environment for serious illness; and (6) missing levels of care. From these results, we put forth recommendations for future collaborative care intervention development, supportive housing policy, and capacity-building efforts for healthcare and housing providers alike.
Brain and cervical spinal cord MRI correlates of sensorimotor impairment in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Morozumi Tetsu , Preziosa Paolo , Meani Alessandro , Pessina Giorgia , Pagani Elisabetta , Azzimonti Matteo , Filippi Massimo , Rocca Maria A
Published: June 2024

Background:

Cervical spinal cord (cSC) lesions and atrophy contribute to disability in multiple sclerosis (MS), but associations with specific sensorimotor dysfunction require further exploration.

Objective:

To investigate the associations of brain and cSC magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures with sensorimotor impairment in MS.

Methods:

One hundred fifty-one MS patients and 69 healthy controls underwent 3T MRI and clinical assessments including Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), 9-hole peg test (9-HPT), finger tapping test (FTT), timed 25-foot walk test (T25FWT), and vibration detection threshold (VDT). Random forest ranked brain (T2-hyperintense lesion volume (T2-LV) and normalized deep gray matter (GM), cortical and white matter (WM) volumes) and cSC (T2-LV and total, GM, and WM cross-sectional areas (CSAs) at C2/C3 level) MRI measures relevance in explaining EDSS milestones (EDSS ⩾3.0, ⩾4.0, and ⩾6.0), VDT, pyramidal and sensory functional systems (P-FS and S-FS ⩾2), and motor tests impairment.

Results:

Various combinations of brain and cSC MRI measures explained EDSS milestones (area under the curve (AUC) =0.879–0.900), VDT ( R2 = 0.194), and impaired P-FS (AUC = 0.820), S-FS (AUC = 0.795), 9-HPT (AUC = 0.793), FTT (AUC = 0.740), and T25FWT (AUC = 0.825). cSC GM CSA was the most informative feature for all outcomes, except 9-HPT.

Conclusion:

cSC MRI measures, especially GM CSA, explain EDSS and sensorimotor dysfunction better than brain measures in MS.
Using Community Power to Tackle Gender-Based Violence: An Intersectional Theorisation
Authors: Mwedzi Gabriella , Phipps Alison
Published: June 2024

What is the role of the community in tackling gender-based violence (GBV)? Could communities succeed in ways that states have failed? What approaches could make this possible? This article presents a theoretical discussion of Community Power, a recently codified and influential paradigm in Britain that focuses on ‘handing power’ to communities to deal with local issues. We are particularly interested in its potential to tackle GBV, a persistent issue with many social determinants relevant to Community Power. Our refractive analysis works on two levels: (1) we explore the possibilities of Community Power in relation to GBV; and (2) we use GBV as a lens on Community Power to illuminate its broader strengths and weaknesses. In doing this, we call for a deeper engagement with the terms ‘community’ and ‘power’, which are under-theorised and flattened in the paradigm of Community Power. Applying intersectional theory to this task, we find that Community Power initiatives risk exacerbating the dynamics that underpin GBV. We make suggestions for creating a more GBV-sensitive approach to Community Power, which might also help to enhance this mode of practice in the round.
Assessment of a 1-D diesel engine model for accurate response in transient simulations
Authors: Finesso Roberto , Marello Omar , Ventura Loris
Published: June 2024

The complexity of modern powertrains with their embedded control systems has increased in the last years, due to the tightening of emission regulations. Therefore, virtual calibration and Model-in-the-Loop testing can provide a great support for their preliminary assessment, in order to reduce the experimental effort. To this purpose, highly accurate engine models are required, not only at steady-state conditions, but also in transient operation. The present paper addresses the assessment and validation of a fast-running 1-D model of a diesel engine for heavy-duty applications, focussing on the transient response. In particular, a baseline model with satisfactory accuracy at steady-state operation, but not in transient conditions, is analysed and assessed with the aim of reproducing the true dynamic response of the real engine installed at the test bench, as well as the behaviour of the embedded air-path controllers. The entire methodology for the model assessment is presented step by step, and common challenges and potential pitfalls that researchers may encounter when calibrating simulation models are discussed. Finally, the impact of the test bench layout on the engine dynamic response is also evaluated and discussed.
Review of Mixed Arterial Venous Leg Ulcers (MAVLU) Disease in Contemporary Practice
Authors: Alagha Mohammed , Alfatih Ahmmad , Westby Daniel , Walsh Stewart R.
Published: June 2024

Background

Mixed Arterial and Venous Leg Ulcers (MAVLU) are challenging. Clinical evidence specific to MAVLU management is scarce. We evaluated our recent experience with MAVLU patients and reviewed current data regarding MAVLU epidemiology, aetiology, diagnostic assessment and management options.

Methods

A prospective leg ulcer database was retrospectively interrogated to determine the prevalence and clinical outcome of MAVLU over 2-year period (2021-2022). The literature was reviewed to determine if optimal treatment strategies.

Results

307 patients attended the ulcer clinic over a 2-year period. Most were venous leg ulcers (71%), 24% were arterial and 5% were MAVLU. The highest healing rate was in MAVLU (93%), followed by (74%) and (41%), in arterial and venous leg ulcer groups, respectively.

Conclusion

Evidence-based guidelines for MAVLU remain lacking. Well-developed randomised controlled trials are warranted to guide current clinical practice.
Influence of blade wrap angle on internal flow and wear performance of solid-liquid two-phase centrifugal pump with semi-open impeller
Authors: Wang Yanping , Deng Xiaofeng , Geng Mingliang , Tao Ruilin , Li Yi , Zhu Zuchao
Published: June 2024

Blade wrap angle is one of the main parameters of centrifugal pump, which has an important influence on the internal flow characteristic and pump performance. In this work, five impeller models with different blade wrap angles (85°, 95°, 105°, 115°, and 125°) are established on the condition of other impeller parameters remain unchanged, whose external characteristic, internal flow, and wear were analyzed by numerical simulation method. The results show that the influence of blade wrap angle on efficiency is more significant than head, has a certain effect on the internal flow field of the centrifugal pumps and effects the wear position of pressure surface. With the increasing of blade wrap angle, the pump efficiency increases companied by the pump head decreases slightly, the area of higher speed at the outlet of the impeller tends to decrease, the higher speed wake area at the end of the blade pressure surface breaks and shrinks, the vortex in the impeller passage is fewer and smaller, the turbulent kinetic energy and morphology of vortex inside the pump decreases gradually, and the wear rate of the flow passage components shows a pattern of first decreasing and then increasing.
Material performance analysis and structure design of the A.C. contactor driven by MSMA
Authors: Zeng Yulu , Huang Senlin , Wan Jiaxin , Tu Longlong , Yu Hongtao , Zhu Zhifang
Published: June 2024

Contactors are extensively utilized in the control field. Enhancing the response speed and reducing mechanical tremors during switching-in hold great significance in improving contactor’s reliability. A novel A.C. contactor suitable for low-voltage environments has been developed based on the unique properties of the magnetic shape memory alloy (MSMA). It exhibited remarkable characteristics such as large dependent variables, fast response speed, and strong controllability. First, the magnetron characteristics of the MSMA were introduced. Then, the overall structure of the new contactor was designed based on the MSMA output characteristics and the contactor’s design requirements. Next, switching-in characteristics of the contactor under the drive signal were analyzed through simulation. Finally, an experimental measurement was carried out to test the performance of the prototype contactor during separating brake and switching in. The A.C. contactor driven by the MSMA could achieve a response speed of 9.8 ms. The contact movement in the switching process is smooth, which effectively avoids the occurrence of contact bounce in the closing process, which provides theoretical support for the development of the MSMA in the field of low-voltage electrical control application research.
Trajectory planning of a closed five-bow-shaped bar linkage based on finite Fourier series
Authors: Yu Lianqing , Zhou Tiandu , Wang Mingzhi , Wang Yujin
Published: June 2024

With aim to reduce the energy consumption, a trajectory planning method is presented for a closed five-bow-shaped bar linkage, which can be propelled itself by morphing configuration. The objective herein is to optimize the driving joints trajectories within the global feasible region when the linkage rolls along the ground with a desired acceleration. The driving joint trajectories were represented by finite Fourier series, whose coefficients were solved by genetic algorithm to ensure a minimal energy consumption of the linkage. The impact of the number of terms of finite Fourier series on the energy consumption was also discussed through numerical examples. As a result, the energy consumption based on this strategy had been reduced by 19%, comparing with the constant potential energy strategy. A number of terms between six and eight using to denote the joint trajectories are appropriate, because that a small number of terms is incapable of expressing the joint trajectories accurately, whereas, a large number makes the joints to be subjected to vibration shock. At last, simulation on a virtual model and experiments on a prototype were carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Synthesis, evaluation, and docking study of adamantyl-1,3,4-oxadiazol hybrid compounds as CaMKIIδ kinase inhibitor
Authors: Al-Mahadeen Mohammed M , Jaber Areej M , Al-Qawasmeh Raed A , Taha Mutasem O
Published: June 2024

This study revealed a new inhibitor of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), a crucial factor in cardiovascular disease and hypertension. The study focuses on the bioactivity compounds that combine adamantane/1,3,4-oxadiazole, potentially inhibiting CaMKIIδ. Various adamantyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives were synthesized and tested for their efficiency against CaMKIIδ kinase, with 6f being the most potent with an IC50 value of 14.4 μM. Docking studies were carried out to determine the binding processes of these chemicals within the kinase’s active region. These discoveries are an important step toward the development of novel treatments for cardiovascular illnesses and hypertension, with the potential for more precise and efficient therapeutic interventions in the future.
Refugee and migrant women’s pathways into and through prisons: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Mehta Rimple , Abubasheer Ayah , Drake Gabrielle , Padukka Wayanna
Published: June 2024

Refugee and migrant women in prison are likely to have experiences of trauma and gender-based violence, which shape their pathways to prison and impact their experiences in prison. This systematic review analyses the findings of qualitative studies to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of migrant and refugee women before and during imprisonment. The review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement (PRISMA). A systematic search of four academic databases, ProQuest Central, Taylor and Francis Journals, SAGE Journals and APA PsycInfo and web and citation search was carried out between April and October 2022. The search dates for identifying literature were from September 2001 to September 2021. The review’s search strategy identified 3208 articles from 4 databases and 9 studies from web and citation search, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria for the review. Quality appraisal was conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). Four analytic themes were identified that detail refugee and migrant women’s experiences before and during imprisonment: women’s pathways to imprisonment; health care experiences; intersectional identities and women’s agency in the context of prison experiences. The findings suggest that the current systems of incarceration fail to reflect the complexity of women prisoners’ racial and ethnic backgrounds. Thus, there is a need for a greater understanding of refugee and migrant women’s experiences to promote better institutional and community support for women before and during prison to eliminate their pathways to the prison. There have been a few studies with a focus on refugee and migrant women in prison. This is an area which lacks focus in terms of both research and intervention, and this review will make an important contribution in this regard.
Laryngotracheal trauma-induced Macklin effect: A case report
Authors: Romdhane Nadia , Chiboub Dorra , Amri Ameni , Ayedi Asma , Rejeb Emna , Zoghlami Imen , Nefzaoui Safa , Hariga Ines , Mbarek Chiraz
Published: June 2024

Laryngotracheal trauma is a relatively rare traumatic injury seen particularly in young male adults. Trauma due to strangulation is one of its most frequent circumstances. However rare, pneumomediastinum is a particular complication of severe blunt neck injuries leading to alveolar ruptures. This phenomenon, described as the Macklin effect, requires early diagnosis, and its management varies from conservative to surgical treatment depending on the severity of symptoms. Our aim is to describe the case of a 21-year-old male who presented with blunt neck trauma. Clinical and imaging findings revealed subcutaneous neck emphysema and pneumomediastinum. Treatment was conservative leading to complete resolution of the injuries and the patient was discharged after 2 weeks.
Sanctuary city success? How attitudes towards irregular migrants and urban policy differ in Barcelona
Authors: Morris Grace C.
Published: June 2024

In 2012, Barcelona City Council introduced a new city agency that would provide housing and resources for migrants and refugees living within their city—irregular migrants. This esteemed sanctuary city policy further integrated irregular migrants into city life; however, how did natives respond to this effort? Through a difference in differences methodological approach and public opinion survey data from 2008 to 2017, I provide evidence of more positive native attitudes towards irregular migrants and immigration policy. I speculate that the increase in positive perceptions occur due to contact theory. While a single-case study, these findings provide hope for how city governments feeling the burden of the ongoing refugee crisis can adequately provide support for their irregular migrant populations without fear of backlash from their citizens.
School counsellors’ reporting child maltreatment: A rapid review of empirical evidence
Authors: Brown Meegan , Bowyer Jordie , Walsh Kerryann
Published: June 2024

Within schools, school counsellors are often delegated the responsibility for reporting child maltreatment. In this paper, we present findings of a rapid review of empirical studies investigating what is known about school counsellors’ reporting of child maltreatment. Thematic categories identified include school counsellors’ training, knowledge, factors influencing reporting, and reporting experiences. These themes appear to act independently, in overlap, or collectively as facilitators and barriers to school counsellors’ effective reporting practices. The rapid review findings will guide future education and training initiatives to prepare school counsellors for their work in schools. Directions for future research are proposed.
Perceived Behavioral Factors and Individual Investor Stock Market Investment Decision: Multigroup Analysis and Major Stock Markets Perspectives
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad Asim , Jianguo Du , Jan Naveed , Rasool Yasir
Published: June 2024

The study aims to examine the impact of various behavioral biases such are overconfidence, representativeness, availability, anchoring and herding, and their effects on individual investment decisions in the case-developed country context of China. To achieve this, data was meticulously gathered from 362 participants active in the Shanghai stock market. Employing advanced analytical tools, particularly the Smart PLS 3.3.2 software and structural equation modelling (SEM), this study rigorously scrutinized the intricate relationships between behavioral biases and investment decisions. The findings of this study notably reveal that all examined behavioral biases exert a significant positive impact on investment decisions within the Anxin, Haitong, Shanxi, and China Galaxy stock markets. Remarkably, no substantial disparities in the effects of these biases on stock market trading were observed among these markets. Importantly, these findings bear exceptional significance within the context of a developed country like China. The implications extend to a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including government entities, regulatory bodies, practitioners, the academic community, industry professionals, and researchers. Regulatory authorities can leverage these insights to refine their strategies, practitioners can fine-tune their investment advisory approaches, and academia and researchers can build upon these findings to deepen the understanding of behavioral finance in the realm of stock market investments.
The Impacts of Digital Leadership on Employee Voice Behaviors: The Mediating Roles of Employee Empowerment and Work Engagement
Authors: Yang Cuibai , Li Zhenli , Li Futian , Li Hongting
Published: June 2024

This study examines the impact of digital leadership on employee voice behaviors, which are critical for organizations’ success in digital transformation. Using social exchange theory as the model foundation, we conducted a two-wave survey to explore the content and attributes of voice behaviors. Our findings show that digital leadership plays a crucial role in promoting employee voice behaviors, indirectly affecting prohibitive and promotive voice behaviors through employee empowerment. We found that digital leadership increases prohibitive voice behavior through increasing work engagement rather than promotive voice behavior. Additionally, our study reveals that employee empowerment and work engagement do not mediate the chain of effects between digital leadership and promotive voice behavior. This research contributes to the literature on digital leadership, employee voice behaviors, and social exchange theory, providing new insights into the role of digital leadership in promoting employee voice behaviors.
Factors Influencing Undergraduate Students’ Online Learning Outcomes: A Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Abdullah Melissa Ng Lee Yen , Saw Fen Tan , Samsudin Mohd Ali , Tze Ying Sim , Chorng Yuan Fung
Published: June 2024

Online learning is on the rise, and it is becoming an important mode of learning in higher education. However, there are limited models that explain the link between learners’ characteristics, learning processes, and outcomes in an online learning environment. This study aims to examine the influence of online self-regulation on the experiences and engagement of students during online learning processes and their outcomes in terms of satisfaction and academic performance. A quantitative correlational design was used to achieve the objective of this study. Data collection was carried out using an online survey. A total of 609 undergraduates from four public and private universities in Malaysia were sampled. The partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was run to analyze the obtained data. The results showed that online self-regulation is a presage factor affecting online learning processes. It significantly and positively affects students’ experiences and engagement in an online environment. These three factors explained more than two thirds of the variance in satisfaction, a key learning outcome of online learning. However, its predictive value for academic performance was weaker. The developed model can be used as a framework to promote positive online learning outcomes among undergraduate students. The implications of the study and recommendations for future research are discussed in this paper.
Myanmar Budget Dynamics and Their Effect on Multiple Performances of Public Service Delivery: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Myaing Win Thiri , Lim Seunghoo
Published: June 2024

A public budget consists of financial input for implementing governmental operations. It is generally expected that financial resources will increase organizational performance because they can be used to obtain other types of resources. This study aims to make a theoretical contribution to the punctuated equilibrium theory literature by examining how the different patterns of budget changes affected the competing dimensions of public service performance (3Es: efficiency, effectiveness, and equity) before and after the Myanmar budget reform in 2011. We collected a two-level dataset including budget allocation data at the ministry level and public service providers’ perceptions of performance at the individual level and employed multilevel modeling. Our results show that the effectiveness of public services can be improved by increasing a significant amount of budget allocation (positive punctuations), but this has no effect on efficiency or equity. However, any level of budget reduction can decrease the efficiency and equity of public services.
Can Foreign Institutional Investors Stimulate Environmental Innovation? Evidence From China’s Stock Market Liberalization
Authors: Wang Zhongcheng , Cheng Yiheng , Xue Xinhong
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the Mainland-Hong Kong Stock (MHKS) Connect Program is used as a quasi-natural experience to study the relationship between foreign institutional investors and environmental innovation. Using the sample of the Chinese mainland A-Share market industrial firms from 2012 to 2019 and Difference-In-Difference model, we find a promoting effect of the foreign institutional investors on the mainland firms’ environmental innovation. The mediating effect tests prove that foreign institutional investors inspire environmental innovation through monitoring channel (supervising the environmental innovation), insurance channel (tolerating innovation failures) and knowledge spillover channel. It is noteworthy that only firms in the regions of high innovation capacity benefit from the knowledge spillover channel. Our study implies that environmental innovation can benefit from the opening-up of the stock market if it can attract foreign institutional investors who fulfill the roles of monitoring, insurance and knowledge spillover.
Exploring the Triggering Mechanism of Different Word-of-Mouth Intentions by Guest Experience and Well-Being Perception
Authors: Fan Yedan , Mohd Isa Salmi , Yang Shaohua , Zhu Tingting
Published: June 2024

This study examines the triggering mechanism of hotel guests’ engagement in word-of-mouth (WOM) by integrating guest experience, well-being perception, one-to-one WOM intention, one-to-many WOM intention and many-to-many WOM intention. A survey was conducted with 306 experienced guests of the resort hotel sector in China. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to estimate relationships between guest experience, well-being perception and WOM intentions. The findings of this study indicated a significantly direct effect of esthetic experience on well-being perception, followed by escapism experience, education experience and entertainment experience. The findings also revealed well-being perception was a salient predictor of WOM intentions (i.e., one-to-one, one-to-many and many-to-many), aided to tourism and hospitality literature by providing empirical evidences to demonstrate how different WOM intentions were triggered by various experiences via psychological reaction of well-being perception. The theoretical and managerial implications for the tourism marketers were discussed.
Comparison of Postoperative Pain and Surgical Outcomes Between Three Types of Modified Muscle-Sparing Laminoplasty and Conventional Laminoplasty for Multilevel Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Wang Ben , Qu Ruomu , Liu Zexiang , Zhao Nan , Pan Shengfa , Chen Xin , Zhao Yanbin , Dang Lei , Zhou Hua , Wei Feng , Sun Yu , Zhou Feifei , Jiang Liang
Published: June 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective

This study aimed to compare postoperative pain and surgical outcomes of open-door laminoplasty (LP) and three types of muscle-sparing laminoplasties, namely unilateral muscle-preservation laminoplasty (UL), spinous process splitting double-door laminoplasty (DL) and intermuscular “raising roof” laminoplasty (RL) for multilevel degenerative cervical myelopathy (MDCM).

Methods

Consecutive MDCM patients underwent LP or modified laminoplasties (UL, DL, RL) in 2022 were enrolled. Patients’ preoperative baseline data and surgical characteristics were collected. Postoperative transient pain (TP), the axial pain and Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score and neck disability index (NDI) at 6-month and 12-month follow-up were documented.

Results

A total of 154 MDCM patients were included and a 12-month follow-up was completed for 148 patients (LP: 36, UL:39, DL: 37, RL:36). No significant difference was observed in the baseline data. Four groups presented favorable and comparable surgical outcome. The RL group reported significantly the least severe TP on the first three days following surgery. However, no significant difference was found in the axial pain and axial symptoms at both follow-ups. After regression analysis, RL group exhibited significantly better efficacy in alleviating Day-1 TP ( P = 0.047) and 6-month axial pain ( P = 0.040). However, this superiority was not observed at 12-month follow-up.

Conclusion

All the three muscle-sparing laminoplasty procedures showed similar short-term surgical outcomes compared to LP. The RL procedure demonstrated superiority in alleviating TP and 6-month axial pain compared to LP. The RL and DL groups showed less C5 palsy compared to LP.
Effect of coating time on the formation of coating layer and degradation behavior of hydroxyapatite coated ZK60 alloy
Authors: Van Hai Le , Nhu Ngoc Do , Mai Khanh Pham , Van Tuan Le , Nhat Dinh Vu , Viet Nam Nguyen
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

This study aims to investigate the effect of coating time on the formation of hydroxyapatite (HA) coating layer on ZK60 substrate and understand the biodegradation behavior of the coated alloy for biodegradable implant applications.

Methods:

Biodegradable ZK60 alloy was coated by HA layer for different times of 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 h by chemical conversion method. After coating, all the coated specimens were used for immersion test in Hanks’ solution to understand the effect of coating time on the degradation behavior of the alloy. The degradation rate of the coated alloy was evaluated by Mg2+ ion quantification and pH change during immersion test. The microstructure of the coating layer was examined by scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) before and after immersion to understand the degradation behavior of the coated alloy.

Results:

HA coating layers were formed successfully on surface of ZK60 specimens after 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 h with different microstructure. Optimal coating quality was observed at 1 or 2 h, characterized by well-formed and uniform HA layers. However, extending the coating duration to 4 h led to the formation of cracks within the HA layer, accompanied by Mg(OH)2. Specimens coated for 1 and 2 h exhibited the lowest degradation rates, while specimens coated for 0.5 and 4 h showed the highest degradation rates. Furthermore, analysis of degradation products revealed the predominance of calcium phosphates formed on the surface of specimens coated for 1 and 2 h. Conversely, specimens coated for 0.5 and 4 h exhibited Mg(OH)2 as the primary degradation product, suggesting a less effective corrosion barrier under these conditions.

Conclusion:

The HA layer formed after 2 h demonstrated as the most effective coating layer for enhancing the corrosion resistance of the ZK60 alloy for biomedical applications.
Do Teachers Perceive Absent Students Differently?
Authors: Gottfried Michael , Kim Phil , Fletcher Tina L.
Published: June 2024

When it comes to understanding the consequences of school absenteeism, how missing school might be linked to student-teacher relationships remains relatively unexplored. Our work helps to further detail this context by specifically investigating whether teachers’ perceptions of students are different based on how frequently those students are absent. We explore this in early elementary school—a period marked by high rates of student absenteeism not witnessed again until early adolescence. Using a nationally representative dataset of children in kindergarten through second grade, we found that teachers felt less close with students who had more absences compared to students with fewer absences. Findings also suggested teachers had lower perceptions of absent students’ classroom social skills compared to the perceptions that they held for less-absent students. Finally, teachers had lower ratings of learning approaches as well as lower ratings of language and math abilities for students who were more absent. Recommendations for policy and practice are discussed.
Does Universal SEL Promote Academic Success? Examining Learner Outcomes Under Routine Conditions in First-Grade Classrooms
Authors: Hart Susan Crandall , DiPerna James C. , Lei Pui-Wa , Zhao Hui , Sun Tianying , Li Xinyue , Husmann Kyle
Published: June 2024

Although proponents suggest that universal social-emotional learning (SEL) programs promote academic achievement, few studies have directly tested these outcomes under routine conditions in schools. Forty first-grade classrooms participated in an effectiveness trial in which schools (N = 13) were randomly assigned to implementation of a universal SEL program (SSIS SEL CIP) or control (business-as-usual practices) conditions within sites/regions. Teachers in the treatment condition prepared for and implemented the program in accordance with their typical local practices. There were no statistically significant main effects on teacher-rated student engagement, motivation, and academic skills. Effect sizes, however, were medium to large and positive for academic engaged time and math achievement. Students with lower teacher-rated academic motivation at pretest also were more likely to improve after program exposure. These findings help identify considerations for further studying the potential academic outcomes resulting from implementing universal SEL under typical conditions.
Remote Work Arrangements: Negotiating the Duality of Managerial and Employee Perspectives
Authors: Golden Timothy D.
Published: June 2024

The quantum growth of remote work has caused both managers and employees to reconsider where and how to work. This often takes the form of negotiations between an employee and manager as they attempt to resolve differing views on how best to carry out remote work. The multi-issue negotiation role-play exercise described here encapsulates these often opposing views through the negotiation of seven issues related to working from home. The issues are designed to reflect different types of negotiation approaches and include those that are distributive, integrative, and compatible between the parties. Furthermore, the design of issues reflects differing values assigned to each role, in order to foster student engagement and a greater appreciation for how to achieve trade-offs. Through this exercise and ensuing discussion, students learn how to better analyze and carry out negotiations, and enrich their understanding of the complexities of setting up remote work arrangements.
Developing and validating a scale to measure the perceptions of safety, usability and acceptability of microarray patches for vaccination: a study protocol
Authors: Berger Matthew N. , Davies Cristyn , Mathieu Erin , Shaban Ramon Z. , Bag Shopna , Skinner S. Rachel
Published: June 2024

Background:

Vaccination is a fundamental tenet of public and population health. Several barriers to vaccine uptake exist, exacerbated post-COVID-19, including misconceptions about vaccine efficacy and safety, vaccine hesitancy, vaccine inequity, costs, religious beliefs, and insufficient education and guidance for healthcare professionals. Vaccine uptake may be aided using microarray patches (MAPs) due to reduced pain, no hypodermic needle, enhanced thermostability, and potential for self and lay administration.

Objectives:

This protocol outlines the development of a scale that aims to accurately measure the perceived safety, usability, and acceptability of MAPs for vaccination among laypeople, MAP recipients, clinicians, and parents or guardians of children.

Methods and analysis:

This study will follow three phases of scale development and validation, including (1) item development, (2) scale development, and (3) scale evaluation. Inductive (interviews) and deductive methods (literature searches) will be used to develop scale items, which experts from target populations will assess through an online survey. Cognitive interviews will be conducted to observe their processes of answering the draft survey. Thematic analysis will be conducted to analyse qualitative data. Lastly, four surveys will be administered online to our target populations over two time points to determine their repeatability. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, Cronbach’s alpha, and construct validity will be performed.

Ethics:

This study was approved by Metro South Health (HREC/2021/QMS/81653) and Western Sydney Local Health District (2023/ETH00705) Human Research Ethics Committees.

Discussion:

The scale will support a standardised approach to assessing the social and behavioural aspects of MAP vaccines, enabling comparison of outcomes across studies. Once validated, this scale will assist vaccination programmes in developing effective strategies for integrating MAPs and overcoming barriers to vaccination. This includes improving vaccine equity and accessibility, especially in lower- and middle-income countries and rural or remote locations.
The Impact of Administrative Burdens in Ghana’s LEAP Cash Transfer Programme: Insights for Enhancing Well-being
Authors: Osei Kennedy , Henman Paul , Andoh Paul Kofi
Published: June 2024

This article reports experiences and challenges connected with Ghana’s Livelihood Empowerment Against Poverty (LEAP) programme and its implications for grant access and impacts on recipients’ well-being. Engaging with the administrative burden’s framework, we find that inadequate information; transport, timing and financial barriers to accessing payments; irregularity of payments; electronic payment difficulties; gift giving to programme administrators; and lack of access to complementary services are the key administrative challenges watering down the LEAP impacts on recipients’ well-being. We recommend establishing an appropriate information delivery system, feedback and monitoring mechanisms, providing other productivity-enhancing services to complement the LEAP grant, strengthening the local implementation structures and payment procedures and reducing travel costs and waiting time for service delivery.
Exploring the ‘citizen organization’: an evaluation of a regional Australian community-based palliative care service model
Authors: Rosenberg John , Flynn Trudi , Merollini Katharina , Linn Josie , Nabukalu Doreen , Davis Cindy
Published: June 2024

Background:

Little Haven is a rural, community-based specialist palliative care service in Gympie, Australia. Its goals are to provide highest quality of care, support and education for those experiencing or anticipating serious illness and loss. Families and communities work alongside clinical services, with community engagement influencing compassionate care and support of dying people, their families and communities. Public Health Palliative Care promotes community engagement by community-based palliative care services and is grounded in equal partnerships between civic life, community members, patients and carers, and service providers. This takes many forms, including what we have termed the ‘citizen organization’.

Objectives:

This paper reports on an evaluation of Little Haven’s model of care and explores the organization’s place as a ‘citizen’ of the community it services.

Design:

A co-designed evaluation approach utilizing mixed-method design is used.

Methods:

Multiple data sources obtained a broad perspective of the model of care including primary qualitative data from current patients, current carers, staff, volunteers and organizational stakeholders (interviews and focus groups); and secondary quantitative survey data from bereaved carers. Thematic analysis and descriptive statistics were generated.

Results:

This model of care demonstrates common service elements including early access to holistic, patient/family-centred, specialized palliative care at little or no cost to users, with strong community engagement. These elements enable high-quality care for patients and carers who describe the support as ‘over and above’, enabling good quality of life and care at home. Staff and volunteers perceive the built-in flexibility of the model as critical to its outcomes; the interface between the service and the community is similarly stressed as a key service element. Organizational stakeholders observed the model as a product of local activism and accountability to the community.

Conclusion:

All participant groups agree the service model enables the delivery of excellent care. The construction of a community palliative care service as a citizen organization emerged as a new concept.