bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do human resources analytics create value for organizations? A qualitative investigation
Authors: Thakur Shweta Jaiswal , Bhatnagar Jyotsna , Farndale Elaine , Aeron Prageet
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Human resources analytics (HRA) can potentially create value and provide a competitive advantage; however, whether and how HRA creates this value has been sparsely explored in scholarly literature. Hence, the purpose of this study is to provide a process-oriented framework for value creation from HRA use by exploring the underlying mechanisms, complementary resources and outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a qualitative research design as the research question was exploratory. A total of 26 in-depth expert interviews with different organizations were conducted. These interviews were transcribed and coded for emerging themes, which were placed in a temporal sequence of occurrence to derive a process understanding of value creation from HRA. Additionally, validation tests were conducted.

Findings

The thematic analysis using NVivo provided qualitative evidence of the value-creating potential of HRA. Further, it unraveled the process of value creation from HRA in the form of problem construction, insight generation, the buy-in of stakeholders and solution implementation. This process resulted in various human resource management (HRM) and organizational outcomes. The analysis also highlighted the significance of three complementary resources, namely data quality, analytical competency and business knowledge.

Practical implications

This study offers guidance for HR executives and business managers to assess the conditions under which HRA can add business value to organizations.

Originality/value

The paper is novel as this is among the first studies to provide evidence of value creation from HRA and identify the underlying mechanism, which has been highlighted as a gap in the literature. Based on resource-based theory and its complementarities perspective, the study makes a valuable contribution to the nascent HRA literature.
Unveiling current and future trends in customer banking experience research: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Yang Mengxi , Wider Walton , Xiao Shuoran , Jiang Leilei , Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf , Lee Alex
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research is the first to use bibliometric analysis to provide insight into the landscape and forecast the future of customer experience research in the banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach

We used bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis to delineate the existing knowledge structure after reviewing 338 articles from the Web of Science database.

Findings

The bibliographic coupling analysis revealed five key clusters: customer engagement and experience in digital banking; customer experience and service management; customer experience and market resilience; digital transformation and customer experience; and digital technology and customer experience—each representing a significant strand of current research. In addition, the co-word analysis revealed four emerging themes: customer experience through AI and blockchain, digital evolution in banking, experience-driven ecosystems for customer satisfaction, and trust-based holistic banking experience.

Practical implications

These findings not only sketch an overview of the current research domain but also hint at emerging areas ideal for scholarly investigation. While highlighting the industry’s rapid adaptation to technological advances, this study calls for more integrative research to unravel the complexities of customer experience in the evolving digital banking ecosystem.

Originality/value

This review presents a novel state-of-the-art analysis of customer banking experience research by employing a science mapping via bibliometric analysis to unveil the knowledge and temporal structure.
A dynamic model for performance evaluations: an integrated approach based on P-AHP and aggregation operators
Authors: Fattoruso Gerarda , Martino Roberta , Ventre Viviana , Violi Antonio
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Multi-criteria methods represent an adequate tool for solving complex decision problems that provide real support to the decision maker in the choice process. This paper analyzes a decision problem that recurs over time using one of the newer methods as the Parsimonious AHP.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper we integrated the P-AHP with: (1) the weighted average which takes into account the objectivity of the data; (2) ordered weighted average (OWA) aggregation operators that address the subjective nature of the data; (3) the Choquet integral and (4) the Sugeno integral which also considers the uncertain nature of the final ranking as it is defined on a fuzzy measure.

Findings

The present paper proves that variations in the final ranking, due to the different mathematical properties of the selected aggregators, are fundamental to select the best alternative without neglecting any characteristic of the input data. In fact, it is discussed and underlined how and why the best alternative is one that never excels but has very good positions with respect to all aggregation operator rankings.

Originality/value

The aim and innovation presented in this work is the use of the Parsimonious AHP (P-AHP) method in a dynamic way with the use of different aggregation techniques.
Effect of sintering temperature on ratcheting-fatigue behavior of nanosilver sintered lap shear joint
Authors: Fang Danqing , Wu Chengjin , Tan Yansong , Li Xin , Gao Lilan , Zhang Chunqiu , Zhao Bingjie
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to study the effect of sintering temperature on the microstructure, shear strength and ratcheting fatigue life of nanosilver sintered lap shear joint. In addition, the Gerber model is used to predict the ratcheting fatigue lives of nanosilver sintered lap shear joints at different sintering temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the nanosilver sintered lap shear joints were prepared at three sintering temperatures of 250 °C, 280 °C and 310 °C. The bonding quality was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscope and shear tests, and the long-term reliability was studied by conducting ratcheting fatigue tests. In addition, three modified models based on Basquin equation were used to predict the ratcheting fatigue life of nanosilver sintered lap shear joint and their accuracies were evaluated.

Findings

When the sintering temperature is 250°C, the nanosilver sintered lap shear joint shows the porosity of 22.9 ± 1.6 %, and the shear strength of 22.3 ± 2.4 MPa. Raising the sintering temperature enhances silver crystallite size, strengthens sintering necks, thus improves shear strength and ratcheting fatigue life in joints. In addition, the ratcheting fatigue lives of the joints sintered at different temperatures are effectively predicted by three equivalent force models, and the Gerber model shows the highest life prediction accuracy.

Research limitations/implications

The sintered silver bondline is suffering a complex stress state. The study only takes the shear stress into consideration. The tensile stress and the combination of shear stress and tensile stress can to be considered in the future study.

Practical implications

The paper provides the experimental and theoretical support for robust bonding and long-term reliability of sintered silver structure.

Social implications

The introduced model can predict the ratcheting fatigue lives of the joints sintered at different temperatures, which shows a potential in engineering applications.

Originality/value

The study revealed the relationship between the sintering temperature and the microstructure, the shear strength and the ratcheting fatigue life of the joint. In addition, the Gerber model can predict the ratcheting fatigue life accurately at different sintering temperatures.
Organizational factors, quality performance and competitive advantage of village-owned enterprise in Indonesia
Authors: Atmaja Hanung Eka , Hartono Budi , Lionora Clarisa Alfa , Simamora Alex Johanes , Siharis Alkadri Kusalendra
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research objective is to (1) examine the effect of organizational factors on quality performance, (2) examine the effect of quality performance on competitive advantage and (3) examine the mediating role of quality performance between organizational factors and competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

The research sample includes 140 employees in the Windusari village-owned enterprise, in Magelang, Indonesia. Data are collected using 5-Likert scale questionnaires which follow Ferdousi et al. (2019). The dependent variable is a competitive advantage. The Independent variable is organizational factors which are top management support, employee empowerment, employee involvement, reward and recognition, training and customer focus. The mediating variable is quality performance. Data analysis uses path analysis provided by structural equation modeling.

Findings

Based on path analysis, organizational factors have a positive effect on quality performance, quality performance has a positive effect on competitive advantage and quality performance mediates the effect of organizational factors on competitive advantage. The results confirm the concept of quality management where continuous improvement of products and services can meet customer expectations and bring the organization to a better position in the industry to face other competitors.

Originality/value

This research extends the previous studies of the relationship between organizational factors and organizational outcomes by considering the effectiveness of the organizational process. This research also contributes to giving new evidence about the relationship between organizational factors, quality management and competitive advantage in the village-owned enterprise in Magelang, Indonesia. This research also contributes to updating the literature on the theory of quality management.
Quantifying chemotherapy‐induced cognitive impairment in gastrointestinal cancer patients: A scoping review of methodological concerns in the literature
Authors: Lau Jerrald , Khoo Athena Ming‐Gui , Choe Lina , Hoon Alyssa , Tan Ker‐Kan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Chemotherapy is one of the common treatments in cancer management. However, chemotherapy‐induced cognitive impairment (CICI) is one notable side effect that can greatly impact a patient's quality of life. Literature on CICI in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are few and inconsistent. This review aims to identify the methodological differences in such studies.

Methods

A systematic search was performed in four electronic databases. All peer‐reviewed primary literature published in English that evaluated cognitive‐related functioning scores related to chemotherapy in GI cancer patients were included. Information about each study such as CICI findings, study limitations, methodology, and sample characteristics was extracted and synthesized.

Results

A total of 19 studies were included. Evidence of CICI was found in 50.0% (8 of 16) and 62.5% (5 of 8) studies that used objective and subjective measures, respectively. Methodological differences such as groups used for comparison, instruments used, and assessment from the length of time since chemotherapy were highlighted between studies that did and did not find evidence of CICI.

Conclusions

This review suggests that the mixed findings can be attributed to the heterogeneous methodologies adopted in the evaluation of CICI in this field.

Implications for cancer survivors

Further studies are necessary to establish the presence and chronicity of CICI, and in which groups of patients to facilitate targeted interventions and treatments.
NANOG regulate the JAK/STAT3 pathway to promote trophoblast cell migration and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) through protein interaction with CDK1
Authors: Ma Jing , Liu Mingchang , Chen Zhuo , Liu Shiyang , Yang Huijuan , Duan Mengjia
Published: May 2024

Problem

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a common pregnancy disease. NANOG and Cyclin‐dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) are essential for regulating the function of cell proliferation and apoptosis. However, the mechanism of action in HDP is yet unclear.

Method

The microarray dataset GSE6573 was downloaded from the GEO database. Emt‐related gene set was downloaded from Epithelial‐Mesenchymal Transition gene database 2.0 were screened differentially expressed genes by bioinformatics analysis. Pathway Commons and Scansite 4.0 databases were used to predict the interaction between proteins. Placental tissue samples were collected from HDP patients and patients with uneventful pregnancies. RT‐qPCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of NANOG, CDK1, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, EMT markers and the JAK/STAT3 pathway proteins. Transfection NANOG overexpression/knockdown, and CDK1 knockdown into the human chorionic trophoblast cells (HTR‐8/Svneo). CCK‐8, Transwell and Wound‐healing assay were used to evaluate cell proliferation, invasion and migration. CO‐IP and GST pull‐down assays were used to confirm the protein interaction.

Results

A total obtained seven EMT‐related differentially expressed genes, wherein NANOG, NODAL and LIN28A had protein interaction. In the HDP patients' tissue found that NANOG and CDK1 had lower expression. NANOG overexpression promoted HTR‐8/Svneo proliferation, migration and EMT, while NANOG knockdown had the opposite effect. Further a protein interaction between STAT3 and CDK1 with NANOG. NANOG overexpression downregulated the JAK/STAT3 pathway to promote HTR‐8/Svneo proliferation, migration and EMT, which was reversed by CDK1 knockdown.

Conclusions

NANOG downregulated the JAK/STAT3 pathway to promote trophoblast cell proliferation, migration and EMT through protein interaction with CDK1.
Older age, CNS leukaemic involvement and induction tumour lysis increases the risk of methotrexate (MTX)‐induced neurotoxicity in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma: Experience from a tertiary care centre in South India
Authors: Rupakumar Thirumala , Sankar Ajay , Vijayasekharan Kalasekhar , Varikkattu Rajendran Prasanth , Chellapan Sojamani Guruprasad , Rajeswari Binitha , Nair Manjusha , Anandarajan Rakesh , Dennis Divya , Thankamony Priyakumari
Published: May 2024

Methotrexate (MTX), although an indispensable part of contemporary treatment protocols for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL)/lymphomas (LBL) in improving outcomes, can lead to serious neurotoxicity with long‐term consequences. The aetiopathogenesis, predisposing factors and treatment for MTX‐induced neurotoxicity are not yet well defined. The aim of our study was to detect the incidence, risk factors and to assess the overall outcomes of MTX‐induced neurotoxicity among large cohort of paediatric ALL/LBL patients treated on a uniform protocol. We conducted retrospective audit of medical records of 622 consecutive children (≤14 years) diagnosed with ALL and LBL between January 2018 and December 2022 and treated on modified BFM‐95 protocol at the Department of Pediatric Oncology, Regional Cancer Centre, Thiruvananthapuram. Risk factors predisposing to MTX‐induced neurotoxicity were identified using binary logistic regression analysis. Forty‐three children were diagnosed with MTX‐induced neurotoxicity with an incidence rate of 6.9%. More than two‐thirds of them had high‐grade MTX‐induced neurotoxicity CTCAE v5.0 with a median age of 9 years (range: 9 months to 14 years). Almost half of them developed MTX neurotoxicity during Protocol M followed by Phase‐Ib consolidation (15%). Majority of these patients (84%, 36/43) were challenged again with MTX, with 11% (4/36) developing recurrence. Fifteen per cent had persistent neurological deficits at last follow‐up. Univariate analysis found older age (age > 5 years) (p < 0.001), T‐cell phenotype (p = 0.040), tumour lysis syndrome during induction (p < 0.001), baseline renal problems prior to MTX exposure (p < 0.001) and CNS leukaemic involvement (p < 0.003) to be significantly associated with MTX neurotoxicity. On multivariate analysis, older age (>5 years), tumour lysis during induction and CNS leukaemia retained statistical significance (p < 0.05). Methotrexate‐induced neurotoxicity during paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma therapy is a transient phenomenon in majority and re‐challenge with MTX is generally safe. Older age children who develop tumour lysis during induction and CNS leukaemic involvement are at increased risk for MTX‐induced neurotoxicity during ALL/LBL treatment.
Reinventing curatorial research: The museum as a laboratory for artistic learning during lockdown
Authors: Álvarez‐Barrio Carla , Mesías‐Lema José María
Published: May 2024

This paper engages in a reflexive analysis of a curatorial research project conducted in the museum when access was restricted due to the 2020 lockdown. This case study follows an action research design and was located at the Luis Seoane Foundation (A Coruña). This is a physical and virtual space for artistic and educational experimentation. This space emerges from the need to reinvent museum didactics and participant guidance from a new perspective. Thus, an online community was activated where museum staff, artists and other contributors could participate, showing how cultural spaces seek a more direct relationship attuned to their environment. The authors used an ethnographic method based on participant observation, including visual archives and artistic production as fundamental tools of this Arts‐based Educational Research.
1095. Vincetoxicum magnificum (Nakai) Kitag.: Apocynaceae
Authors: Mochizuki Ko , Takegami Minako , Yamanaka Masumi
Published: May 2024

The genus Vincetoxicum Wolf is one of the most species‐rich genera in the Apocynaceae and has diversified in Japan. Vincetoxicum magnificum (Nakai) Kitag. is a perennial herb endemic to Japan. Most Japanese Vincetoxicum species flower in summer to autumn, whereas V. magnificum flowers in spring. Here we provide images of Japanese Vincetoxicum species in their natural habitats and a colour painting, detailed illustrations, photos, and a full description of V. magnificum.
Predictors of post‐operative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation in pediatric patients with complete atrioventricular canal defects
Authors: Freeman Kaitlyn , Caris Elizabeth , Schultz Amy H. , Tressel William , Kronmal Richard , Buddhe Sujatha
Published: May 2024

Background

In infants with complete atrioventricular canal (CAVC) defects, post‐operative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation (LAVVR) is a known major cause of morbidity and mortality and a common indication for re‐operation. However, there is scarce data to identify risk factors for poor outcomes. Our study aims to find echocardiographic characteristics that predict post‐operative LAVVR at discharge and 1‐year follow‐up.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients with initial CAVC repair at our hospital who were followed for 1 year between 2013 and 2022. Patients with major co‐morbid conditions were excluded. Serial echocardiograms were reviewed. Anatomic details, quantitative and qualitative measure of LAVVR including the number of regurgitant jets, regurgitant jet length and vena contracta width, and ventricular function were collected. The time points measured include pre‐operative transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), post‐operative transesophageal echocardiogram (PO‐TEE), routine protocol based post‐operative day 1 (POD1) TTE, discharge TTE and 1‐year post‐operative (1yPO) TTE. Paired t‐tests, chi‐square analysis, and linear regression analysis were performed comparing measured variables to LAVVR outcomes.

Results

Fifty‐two patients were included; 92% had Trisomy 21. The majority were classified as Rastelli A (71%), others Rastelli C (29%). Only two patients had moderate or greater LAVVR pre‐operatively. The mean age at repair was 125 ± 44 days. Pre‐operative LAVVR was the only significant predictor of LAVVR severity at 1 year after backward stepwise regression.

Of those with < moderate LAVVR on PO‐TEE, 20% had worsening to ≥ moderate at discharge, but only 9% remained that way at 1 year. Of those with ≥ moderate LAVVR on PO‐TEE, 40% improved to < moderate by 1 year. Two patients who worsened at 1 year, both secondary to likely cleft suture dehiscence. Only one patient required reoperation in the immediate post‐operative period secondary to severe LAVVR due to suture dehiscence. Routine protocol‐based POD1 echo did not have any association with altered outcomes.

Conclusion

Pre‐operative LAVVR was the only significant predictor of LAVVR severity at 1 year. A significant percentage (40%) of patient with ≥ moderate LAVVR on PO‐TEE improved to < moderate by 1 year. Furthermore, routine protocol‐based POD1 echo did not have any association with altered outcomes.
Significantly improved mechanical properties of mullite ceramics by adding AlOOH with different sizes and morphologies
Authors: Teng Liyang , Wen Jue , Yu Jiarui , Zhang Xianlong , Wu Xueping , Xiao Kesong , Wang Kui , Jiang Ying
Published: May 2024

Mullite ceramics with high purity and toughness were prepared by hot‐press sintering of pyrophyllite at 1300°C using AlOOH nanomaterials with different sizes and morphologies (nanoparticles, nanorods, nanoflakes, and micro‐sized sea urchin–like) as additives. Among the four types of AOOH additives, the incorporation of nanoflakes and sea urchins resulted in the formation of a relatively uniformly distributed and tightly packed microstructure within the ceramics, which significantly improved the density and mechanical properties of the ceramic materials. Compared to nano‐sized AlOOH, the addition of micron‐sized sea urchin–like AlOOH could produce mullite ceramics with best purity and flexural strength. The flexural strength and fracture toughness of ceramics prepared from micro‐sized sea urchin–like AlOOH and pyrophyllite reach 427.34 ± 1.99 MPa and 4.68 ± .31 MPa m1/2, respectively. During the ball milling process, the originally micron‐sized sea urchin–like AlOOH particles were broken down into micro‐ and nano‐sized AlOOH particles. The resulted micron and nanoscale AlOOH particles exhibited synergistic and multi‐scale effects with pyrophyllite, which contributed to the formation of uniformly sized and densely arranged mullite crystals within the ceramics. Additionally, the bridging between the mullite crystals further improved the mechanical properties of the mullite ceramic material.
The effect of pretreatments on the drying of persimmon with infrared energy
Authors: Or Dilvin , Arkain Begüm , Kocabiyik Habib
Published: May 2024

The effects of various pretreatments, including edible coatings, on drying kinetics and some physical quality parameters of persimmon varieties (Fuyu and Rojo Brillante) and differences between varieties were investigated. The experiments were conducted at an infrared radiation intensity of 1210 W m−2 and air velocity (v) of 1.5 m s−1. Drying time differed depending on pretreatments and varieties. Pretreatments generally shortened the Fuyu variety's drying time and increased the Rojo Brillante variety's drying time. Lower specific energy consumption and higher diffusion coefficient values were recorded for the Rojo Brillante variety compared to the Fuyu. In terms of quality parameters, the Fuyu variety generally obtained lower values for shrinkage. Rehydration rate was higher for the Rojo Brillante variety. Total color change was lower in the Rojo Brillante variety. Based on the pretreatments applied, xanthan gum gave better results in terms of operational parameters. In terms of quality parameters, ascorbic acid had better results for rehydration rate and shrinkage. For total color change, better results were obtained in arabic gum pretreatment. As a result, when an evaluation is made regarding variety differences and pretreatments applied, the Rojo Brillante variety can be recommended for drying.

Practical applications

Persimmon is a popular fruit in appearance, flavor, and rich nutritional content. The high moisture and sugar content in the fruit increases spoilage in a short time, making it difficult to consume in all seasons. For this reason, different preservation methods are being investigated to extend the shelf life. Sun drying and other drying methods developed as an alternative to these methods have many disadvantages. Different pretreatments prevent the negativities that occur in other drying methods. Especially, edible coatings can increase product quality by preserving color and appearance as well as controlling mass transfer, flavor, and aroma losses. This study investigated the effects of various pretreatments, including edible coatings, on drying kinetics and some physical quality parameters of persimmon varieties, as well the differences between varieties. Based on variety differences and pretreatments applied, the Rojo Brillante variety can be recommended for drying in terms of both processing and drying characteristics.
Sodium signal intensity of CSF using 1H‐guided 23Na‐MRI as a potential noninvasive biomarker in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kerl Hans‐Ulrich , Baazaoui Hakim , Herrmann Katrin , Adlung Anne , Ludwig Nadia K. , Hausner Lucrezia , Frölich Lutz , Schad Lothar , Groden Christoph , Mohamed Sherif A.
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by cognitive decline and mnestic deficits. The pathophysiology of AD is not fully understood, which renders the development of accurate tools for early diagnosis and effective therapies exceedingly difficult. In this study, we investigated the use of 23Na‐MRI to measure the relative sodium signal intensities (rSSIs) in CSF in patients with AD and healthy controls.

Methods

We prospectively recruited 11 patients with biomarker‐diagnosed early‐stage AD, as well as 12 cognitively healthy age‐matched controls. All participants underwent 23Na‐MRI to measure rSSI. Statistical analyses were performed to compare CSF sodium signal intensities between groups and to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity of the rSSI in the diagnosis of AD.

Results

RSSIs in CSF were significantly higher in AD patients (mean = 68.6% ± 7.7%) compared to healthy controls (mean = 56.9% ± 5.5%) (p < .001). There was also a significant negative correlation between rSSI in CSF and hippocampus and amygdala volumes (r = −.54 and −.49, p < .05) as well as a positive correlation with total CSF volumes (r = .81, p < .05). Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed high diagnostic accuracy for rSSI in discriminating between AD patients and healthy controls (area under the curve = .94).

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence that rSSI in CSF is increased in AD patients in comparison to healthy controls. rSSI may serve as a potential marker for early detection and monitoring of disease progression. Larger, longitudinal studies are needed to confirm our findings and to investigate the association between rSSI in CSF and the severity of cognitive impairment.
Validation of bedside manual versus automated measurements of brain arterial diameters from MR angiography
Authors: Garzon‐Mancera Nicolas D. , Khasiyev Farid , Del Brutto Victor J. , Spagnolo Allende Antonio J. , Wright Clinton B. , Elkind Mitchell , Rundek Tatjana , Del Brutto Oscar H. , Gutierrez Jose
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

Brain arterial luminal diameters are reliably measured with automated imaging software. Nonautomated imaging software alternatives such as a Picture Archiving Communication System are more common bedside tools used for manual measurement. This study is aimed at validating manual measurements against automated methods.

Methods

We randomly selected 600 participants from the Northern Manhattan Study (NOMAS) and 260 participants from the Atahualpa Project studied with 1.5 Tesla MR angiography. Using the Radiant measuring tool, three independent readers (general practitioner, neurology resident, and vascular neurologist) measured manually the diameter of arterial brain vessels. The same vessels were also measured by LKEB Automated Vessel Analysis (LAVA). We calculated the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of each rater's diameters versus those obtained with LAVA.

Results

The ICC between diameters obtained by the general practitioner or the neurology resident compared to LAVA was excellent for both internal carotid arteries (ICA) and Basilar Arteries (BA) (ICC > .80 in all comparisons) in NOMAS. In the Atahualpa Project, ICC between diameters obtained by a vascular neurologist and LAVA was good for both ICA and BA (ICC > .60 in all comparisons). The ICCs for the measurements of the remaining arteries were moderate to poor.

Conclusion

Results suggest that manual measurements of ICA and BA diameters, but not MCA or ACA, are valid and could be used to identify dilated brain arteries at the bedside and for eventual selection of patients with dolichoectasia into clinical trials.
Handling conflict situations in psychosis inpatient care: Nursing staff experiences of the Interactive Approach model
Authors: Arturén Hanna , Zetherström Jenny , Sjöström Nils , Abrams Daniel , Johansson Lena
Published: May 2024

Accessible Summary

What is known on the subject?

In inpatient wards, there is a risk that conflicts occur when nursing staff interact with psychotic patients.

The Interactive Approach (IA) model is an action‐based model, used in psychiatric settings, to manage conflict situations.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

The IA model can be used to improve communication between nursing staff and patients in numerous critical situations.

Using a structured risk scale to evaluate a conflict can be an effective way to guide action and sort out the different aspects of communication between nursing staff and psychotic patients.

What are the implications for practice?

The clarity of an action‐based model will help sort out which interventions are most likely to succeed in each conflict situation.

The IA model highlights the importance of understanding and strengthening the patient's perspective, being flexible for each individual patient, and providing the patient with clear information about the situation.

Introduction

The Interactive Approach (IA) model is a structured management tool used to improve communication between caregivers and patients in psychiatric care settings.

Aim/Question

To examine the nursing staff's experiences of the IA model. How do they use the interventions in conflict situations with psychotic patients?

Method

A sample of nursing staff (n = 11) was recruited from three psychosis inpatient care units. Semi‐structured questions covered staff experiences of working with the problem‐solving interventions in the IA model. Transcribed data were analysed by qualitative content analysis.

Results

Three categories were defined: (1) ‘To apply a flexible approach' describes how staff tried to adapt to each patient and situation; (2) ‘Try to understand the person's inner world’ describes the importance of active listening and exploring the patient's concerns; and (3) ‘To communicate clearly’ relates to experiences of clear communication and the setting up of boundaries.

Discussion

The risk scale and training in communication skills helped the interaction between staff and patients in conflict situations. Different interventions were used with a focus on maintaining patient alliance.

Implications for Practice

The findings highlight the importance of educational efforts and practical training, to prevent violence and the use of coercive measures.
Pharmaceutical patents: Cathartic or inhibiting
Authors: Jha Ravinder
Published: May 2024

The debate between patent rights of pharmaceutical firms and the rights of the poor to equal access to health is an old one. The basic purpose of any patent system that grants a temporary monopoly to an innovator is to stimulate innovation and investment in the production of the newly innovated goods and services, which in turn gives supernormal profits to the innovator. However, the equity considerations dictate the spread of this knowledge in the public domain. The dilemma of the patent system is that, in encouraging R&D, it prevents the diffusion of innovation and consequently creates a non‐competitive situation. This paper examines the impact of patent protection on the number of patent filings by the pharmaceutical companies in India after it signed the Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement and the trend in research and development expenditure by domestic firms. It questions the basis of this intellectual property right, especially, when a substantial amount of basic research is often carried out in the universities and federal funding is provided at the basic research and development level. It further investigates the success of various flexibilities provided under TRIPS which the Indian Patent Act has used and can potentially use, in comparison to other developed countries, to provide easy access to the medicines. The paper concludes by exploring other options available during public health emergencies and otherwise.
The Aguas Zarcas carbonaceous chondrite meteorite: Brecciation and aqueous alteration on the parent body
Authors: Kouvatsis I. , Cartwright J. A. , Hames W. E.
Published: May 2024

CM chondrites are samples from primitive water‐rich asteroids that formed early in the solar system; many record evidence for silicate rock–liquid water interaction. Many CM chondrites also exhibit well‐developed fine‐grained rims (FGRs) that surround major components, including chondrules and refractory inclusions. Previous studies have shown that Aguas Zarcas, a CM2 chondrite fall recovered in 2019, is a breccia consisting of several lithologies. Here, we present a study of Aguas Zarcas using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and electron probe microanalysis, focusing on brecciation and aqueous alteration on the parent body. We observed two lithologies within our sample, separated by a distinct textural and chemical boundary. The first lithology has a higher chondrule abundance (“chondrule‐rich”) and significantly larger FGRs compared to the second lithology (“chondrule‐poor”), even for similarly sized chondrules. We observed clear compositional differences between the two lithologies and more multilayered FGRs in the chondrule‐rich lithology. We determined that the chondrule‐rich lithology is less altered (petrologic type 2.7–2.8) and displays larger FGRs to chondrule ratios compared to the more altered chondrule‐poor lithology (petrologic type 2.5–2.6). These observations are contrary to previous models that predict aqueous alteration as a cause of FGR formation in the parent body. Our observed differences in Mg and Fe distribution in the lithology matrices alongside variable FGR thickness suggest distinct formation environments. We propose that the Aguas Zarcas parent body was subjected to several minor and major brecciation events that mixed different materials with variable degrees of aqueous alteration together, in agreement with previous studies.
Neonatal heart transplantation in the United States: Trends and outcomes
Authors: John Mohan M. , Zinyandu Tawanda , Rosenblum Joshua M. , Shashidharan Subhadra , Chai Paul J. , Shaw Fawwaz R.
Published: May 2024

Background

Heart transplantation in the neonatal period is associated with excellent survival. However, outcomes data are scant and have been obtained primarily from two single‐center reports within the United States. We sought to analyze the outcomes of all neonatal heart transplants performed in the United States using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) dataset.

Methods

The UNOS dataset was queried for patients who underwent infant heart transplantation from 1987 to 2021. Patients were divided into two groups based on age – neonates (<=31 days), and older infants (32 days–365 days). Demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed and compared, along with follow up survival data.

Results

Overall, 474 newborns have undergone heart transplantation in the United States since 1987. Freedom from death or re‐transplantation for neonates was 63.5%, 58.8% and 51.6% at 5, 10, and 20 years, respectively. Patients in the newborn group had lower unadjusted survival compared to older infants (p < .001), but conditional 1‐year survival was higher in neonates (p = .03). On multivariable analysis, there was no significant difference in survival between the two age groups (p = .43). Black race, congenital heart disease diagnosis, earlier surgical era, and preoperative mechanical circulatory support use were associated with lower survival among infant transplants (p < .05).

Conclusions

Neonatal heart transplantation is associated with favorable long‐term clinical outcomes. Neonates do not have a significant survival advantage over older infants. Widespread applicability is limited by the small number of available donors. Efforts to expand the donor pool to include non‐standard donor populations ought to be considered.
Moral worth
Authors: Metz Euan K.
Published: May 2024

The concept of moral worth, of being creditworthy for doing the right thing, is often seen as essential feature of a moral theory. It forces us to provide a clear account of the relationship between moral motivation and moral action, raising important questions about the demands that morality makes of us. Work on moral worth has a long lineage, especially in Kantian scholarship. Recent years, however, have seen a more focused interest in the nature of moral worth outside of the Kantian tradition. Indeed, part of this interest stems from a rejection of an orthodox Kantian understanding of what moral worth is. In this article, I chart prominent reasons for rejecting the orthodoxy, and distinguish between two rival camps that have emerged: Right Reasons Accounts and Rightness Accounts. I delineate some of the demands that these accounts must meet, and end by discussing a potential way forward that has emerged via hybrid views and goal‐based views that attempt to utilise the most promising features of each.
Causal network topology analysis: Characterizing causal context for risk management
Authors: Lin Yifei , Seligmann Benjamin J. , Micklethwaite Steven , Lange David
Published: May 2024

The ways that risk assessments are commonly performed in organizations have limitations that undermine their quality. They typically focus on individual risk events one at a time but are weak at integrating their relevant causal context, into decision‐making processes. Network topology analysis has previously been applied to address this weakness through quantitatively characterizing the importance of the causal interactions of risk events. However, there remains a lack of both clarity and consistency in terminology, methods, and interpretation of the results of this approach. This paper presents and formalizes causal network topology analysis, a methodology that contributes to (1) characterizing the causal context of a risk event to inform its management, (2) articulating the ontological concepts underpinning a repeatable topology network analysis, and (3) justifying the selection and usage of network metrics for this purpose. The theory and methodology are discussed, and an exemplar application to a mining project feasibility study is presented.
Reasons for mosquito net non‐use in malaria‐endemic countries: A review of qualitative research published between 2011 and 2021
Authors: Ladu Hadiza Isa , Shuaibu Umar , Pulford Justin
Published: May 2024

Mosquito nets, particularly insecticide‐treated nets, are the most recommended method of malaria control in endemic countries. However, individuals do not always have access to insecticide‐treated nets or use them as recommended. The current paper expands on a previous review published in 2011 which highlighted a need for more qualitative research on the reasons for mosquito net non‐use. We present a systematic review of qualitative research published in the past decade to assess the growth and quality of qualitative papers about net non‐use and examine and update the current understanding. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Global Health, in addition to a citation search of the initial review. Relevant papers were screened and discussed. The critical appraisal assessment tool was used to ensure quality. Thematic synthesis was used to extract, synthesise, and analyse study findings. Compared with the initial review, the results showed a 10‐fold increase in qualitative research on the reasons for mosquito net non‐use between 2011 and 2021. In addition, the quality of the research has improved, with more than 90% of the papers receiving high scores, using the critical appraisal assessment tool. The reported reasons for non‐use were categorised into four themes: human factors, net factors, housing structure, and net access. More than two thirds of the studies (25/39) were led by authors affiliated with institutions in malaria‐endemic countries. Despite the distribution of free mosquito nets in malaria‐endemic countries, earlier reported challenges remain pertinent. The most common reasons for net non‐use across all regions of Malaria endemic countries pertained to human‐ and net‐related factors. The research focus should shift towards intervention studies to address these issues.
Microstructured gas-liquid-(solid) interfaces: A platform for sustainable synthesis of commodity chemicals
Authors: Wang Kang , Pera-Titus Marc
Published: May 2024

Gas-liquid-solid catalytic reactions are widespread in nature and man-made technologies. Recently, the exceptional reactivity observed on (electro)sprayed microdroplets, in comparison to bulk gas-liquid systems, has attracted the attention of researchers. In this perspective, we compile possible strategies to engineer catalytically active gas-liquid-(solid) interfaces based on membrane contactors, microdroplets, micromarbles, microbubbles, and microfoams to produce commodity chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, and formic acid. In particular, particle-stabilized microfoams, with superior upscaling capacity, emerge as a promising and versatile platform to conceive high-performing (catalytic) gas-liquid-(solid) nanoreactors. Gas-liquid-(solid) nanoreactors could circumvent current limitations of state-of-the-art multiphase reactors (e.g., stirred tanks, trickle beds, and bubble columns) suffering from poor gas solubility and mass transfer resistances and access gas-liquid-(solid) reactors with lower cost and carbon footprint.
Extending a Multi-physics Li-ion Battery Model from Normal Operation to Short Circuit and Venting
Authors: Tran Vivian , Siegel Jason B. , Stefanopoulou Anna G.
Published: May 2024

Mitigation of Li-ion battery system fires consists of reliable fault detection and proactive, fast discharge control. Both require modeling of failure modes due to high temperatures and currents between normal operation and thermal runaway. In this work, we present a control-oriented, reduced-order, multi-physics model that captures the electrochemical, thermal, gas generation, mechanical expansion, and venting behavior of NMC pouch cells undergoing an external short circuit (ESC) from different initial state-of-charge (SOC). The model is parameterized through experiments by fitting the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) decomposition rate, the cell’s thermal parameters, and the particle solid-phase diffusion parameters to capture the first venting timing, peak temperature, and diffusion-limited electrical behavior at high currents. Using a single parameter set, the multi-physics model can capture behavior during an ESC to predict whether a cell will generate gas and vent, predict the vent timing within 10 s of it occurring in the experiment, and maximum cell expansion pressure within 10 kPa for cells that did not vent. The model can also predict the SOC trajectory for cells with a high initial SOC within 6% SOC for the 15-minute discharge or until the cell vents.
Exploration of the Challenges of COVID-19 from the Perspective of Emergency Medicine Specialists
Authors: Rakhshani Tayebeh , Ghalehgolab Farzaneh , Bahrami Mohammad Amin , Karimi Shahnaz , Hamrah Hadid , Jafari Fatemeh , Khani Jeihooni Ali
Published: May 2024

Background. Emergency physicians are at the forefront of the medical system in the face of the COVID-19 crisis. Identifying the challenges, along with the strategies and effective measures implemented by them in the face of the COVID-19 crisis, can be a roadmap for future crisis management planning. This study aims to explain the challenges faced by emergency physicians regarding COVID-19. Methods. This study is a qualitative content analysis. Data were collected using individual and semistructured interviews. Twenty-seven emergency medical specialists in Fars University of Medical Sciences, Iran, participated in the study by purposive sampling method and were interviewed using semistructured interviews. Results. Participants’ experience of COVID-19 led to the extraction of four main themes, including structural factors, threats to the health of the medical team, fluctuations of extremism and wastage in the face of COVID-19, and the country’s policymaking hierarchy. Conclusions. Emergency physicians face challenges such as structural factors, health threats, extreme fluctuations, and national policymaking. To avoid surprises and threats, they must predict acute scenarios, provide necessary equipment, address skilled manpower shortages, and adopt appropriate management policies. This includes culture-building, cross-sector coordination, planning, and efficient management to prevent virus spread.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Identifies Crucial Genes Influencing the Polarization of Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Liver Cancer
Authors: Xu Kedong , Dong Mingyi , Wu Zhengqiang , Luo Linfei , Xie Fei , Li Fan , Huang Hongyan , Wang Fenfen , Xiong Xiaofeng , Wen Zhili
Published: May 2024

Background. In the context of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are pivotal for the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment (TME). This investigation delves into the functional transformations of TAMs within the TME by leveraging single-cell transcriptomics to pinpoint critical genes influencing TAM subset polarization. Methods. We procured single-cell and bulk transcriptomic data from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), implementing quality assurance, dimensional reduction, clustering, and annotation on the single-cell sequencing data. To examine cellular interactions, CellChat was utilized, while single-cell regulatory network inference and clustering (SCENIC) was applied to deduce transcription factors (TFs) and their associated targets. Through gene enrichment, survival, and immune infiltration correlation analyses, we sought to pinpoint and validate influential genes. A TAM model under HCC conditions was then established to confirm the expression levels of these key genes. Results. Our analysis encompassed 74,742 cells and 23,110 genes. Through postdimensional reduction and clustering, we identified seven distinct cell types and nine TAM subtypes. Analysis via CellChat highlighted a predominance of M2-phenotype-inclined TAM subsets within the tumor’s core. SCENIC pinpointed the transcription factor PRDM1 and its target genes as pivotal in this region. Further analysis indicated these genes’ involvement in macrophage polarization. Employing trajectory analysis, survival analysis, and immune infiltration correlation, we scrutinized and validated genes likely directing M2 polarization. Experimental validation confirmed PRDM1’s heightened expression in TAMs conditioned by HCC. Conclusions. Our findings suggest the PRDM1 gene is a key regulator of M2 macrophage polarization, contributing to the immunosuppressive TME in HCC.