bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saudi Arabian Nurses’ Motivations and Barriers to Employment in Inpatient Mental Health Facilities: A Qualitative Investigation
Authors: Alyousef Seham Mansour
Published: June 2024

Background:

The shortage of inpatient psychiatric mental health care nurses in Saudi Arabia represents an important health care challenge.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to illuminate perspectives of psychiatric mental health nurses employed in psychiatric inpatient settings about their employment experiences.

Method:

This study adopted an exploratory qualitative approach using thematic content analysis. Ten professional nurses with psychiatric inpatient caring experience participated in two focus groups composed of Master of Nursing students.

Results:

Four main themes emerged: inadequate professional skills and knowledge for psychiatric mental health care practice, negative public attitudes toward psychiatric/mental health nurses, concerns for personal safety, and alternatives and advantages. The findings of this study suggest that nurses’ lack of interest in working in psychiatric units is not merely personal but also social and organizational.

Conclusions:

The study findings may encourage managers and authorities to develop measures to attract more mental health nurses to work in psychiatric units. Such strategies may include modification of nurses’ skills, training, and professional knowledge, collegial supervision, mentoring, and working conditions and environment.
Raising Turkish–English bilingual children in Turkey: A qualitative study of parental attitudes, beliefs, and utilized strategies
Authors: Kiliç Ali
Published: June 2024

Aims and Objectives:

This study aimed to explore Turkish parents’ attitudes, beliefs, and strategies while raising their children as Turkish-English bilinguals.

Design/Method/Approach:

The qualitative research design was adopted. To collect data, semi-structured interviews were carried out via the Zoom platform with the participation of eight volunteers across Turkey.

Data Analysis:

The data obtained from the interviews were analyzed following the content analysis. The author analyzed on his own. Codes were obtained from the data in the transcripts, categories associated with these codes were formed, and themes were created.

Findings/Conclusion:

The results show that parents are in favor of raising their children as bilinguals and they are the ultimate decision-makers. In addition to relying on their knowledge mainly, they make use of books and cartoons to support the process. They utilize intentional bilingualism and mostly prefer the one-person-one language (OPOL) strategy.

Originality:

The study focused on the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of parents while raising their children as bilingual. It is one of the very fewest studies carried out in the local context, in Turkey.

Significance/implications:

The study will provide parents with an overview of the beliefs and used strategies in raising a bilingual child. The study will also be useful for parents who want to raise their kids as bilinguals, particularly in a monolingual country.
A model of sustainable entrepreneurial behavior
Authors: Javed Muhammad Kashif , Sohail Tahir Muhammad , Ahmad Jamil , Wasaya Allah , Ahmed Affan Uddin , Orangzab  , Irfan Chani Muhammad , Ahmed Munir
Published: June 2024

This study’s objective is to develop a model of sustainable entrepreneurial behavior, integrating individual and cultural perspectives, to understand and promote sustainable entrepreneurial intentions effectively. This article discusses the impact of financial and non-financial motivations (namely, spiritual and moral obligations) on sustainable entrepreneurial intentions. It explores how individual differences and cultural influences serve as moderators in the relationships between financial/non-financial motives and sustainable entrepreneurial intentions. The article provides a rationale for these proposed connections. The study gathered data from 772 individuals who are currently involved in entrepreneurial activities or are business owners in a developing country, who used a self-administered questionnaire. Results indicate that moral and spiritual obligations positively and significantly influence sustainable entrepreneurial intentions, both directly and in a moderated manner. Moral obligation emerges as the most robust predictor, while spiritual obligation demonstrates the strongest moderated impact. Additionally, financial motives prove to be significant predictors of sustainable entrepreneurial intentions. These findings offer valuable insights for marketers and governmental bodies, which may contribute to informed decision-making in the future.
Simultaneous improvements of thermal efficiencies and smoke emissions in semi-premixed diesel combustion with dual-injectors and a spatially divided combustion chamber
Authors: Inaba Kazuki , Kobashi Yoshimitsu , Shibata Gen , Hayashida Kazuhiro , Ogawa Hideyuki
Published: June 2024

To simultaneously establish the high thermal efficiencies and the low smoke emissions in the semi-premixed diesel combustion with a twin peaked heat release consisting of the first-stage premixed combustion and the second-stage spray diffusive combustion, a combination of dual-injectors and a newly designed divided combustion chamber was proposed and the combustion characteristics were investigated. The divided chamber with a lip at the middle of the side wall can prevent the second fuel spray from entering the burned region of the premixture from the first-stage injection, realizing a suitable spatial distribution of spray flames and suppressing the soot formation. The dual-injectors can independently provide the fuel sprays into the upper and the lower layers of the divided chamber with the optional quantities and timings for the first and second injections, establishing the optimum combustion phasing. The distributions of the equivalence ratios and the soot formation characteristics in the divided chamber as well as in an ordinary re-entrant chamber as a reference were analysed with CFD simulations, showing that the soot formation is smaller in the divided chamber. The second-stage spray diffusive combustion is improved as well as the late afterburning and the combustion duration are reduced with the suppression of interference between the spray flames in the divided chamber. The cooling loss in the divided chamber is smaller due to the weaker gas motion and the lower heat transfer coefficient. The experiments also showed that the thermal efficiencies are better and the smoke emissions are lower in the divided chamber at medium loads. However, at higher loads, the smoke emissions increase due to the offset injector arrangement, and the CFD analysis showed that lower smoke emissions can be expected with optimization of the injector arrangement to locate the injector for the second fuel injection at the centre of cylinder.
A mixed methods evaluation of the music and psychology and social connections (MAPS) pilot – A dyadic intervention for couples affected by young-onset dementia
Authors: Loi FRANZCP PhD MBBS Samantha M , Cadwallader Claire J , Stretton-Smith Phoebe A , Flynn Libby , Wand Anne PF , Bryant Christina , Baker Felicity A
Published: June 2024

Introduction

People living with young-onset dementia and their care-partners are at risk of a range of adverse mental health outcomes and social isolation. There are few interventions aimed at supporting couples affected by young-onset dementia, which poses unique psychosocial challenges for younger people.

Methodology

This pre-post interventional mixed methods pilot study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of an online group program for people with young-onset dementia and their care-partners living at home in Australia. The Music And Psychology and Social connections (MAPS) program aimed to address: (1) the challenges and changes associated with young-onset dementia; and (2) coping and wellbeing. The program involved six weekly two-hour sessions co-facilitated by a psychologist and music therapist, and a private Facebook group. The primary outcomes of feasibility and acceptability were assessed through a post-program focus group, separate individual feedback sessions with each couple, and a program evaluation questionnaire. Thematic analysis was conducted on the focus group transcripts and field notes from couple feedback sessions. We also examined the preliminary utility of MAPS in improving mental health and social connectedness, using quantitative pre-post-measures.

Results

Five couples completed the MAPS program. The most common dementia type was Alzheimer’s Disease. Participant attendance was 87% across all sessions. Qualitative findings supported acceptability of the program with four emergent themes: being connected to others with shared experiences; reframing thoughts and feelings about dementia; music as a therapeutic tool; and benefits of MAPS.

Conclusion

The high retention rate, qualitative findings and positive program evaluation suggest MAPS may be a promising, feasible and acceptable program for couples affected by young-onset dementia.
Whither the Centre? Tracing Centralisation and Fragmentation in UK Politics
Authors: Ward Joseph , Ward Bradley , Kerr Peter
Published: June 2024

This article explores the question of how to conceptualise the location, capacity and effectiveness of the ‘centre’ in the UK policymaking process. While the literature on UK governance has historically featured avid disagreements about the power and capacity of central government, we identify a more recent convergence around the idea that the UK government is characterised by persistent centralisation of decision making alongside a fragmentation of policy delivery and frontline capacity. Through a detailed review of UK governance debates, we trace the development of two, seemingly contradictory, schools of thought: the centralisation school and the fragmentation school. We then identify an emerging consensus which recognises a continuous and uneven centripetal–centrifugal dynamic and the concurrence of both centralisation and fragmentation. We contend that changes to the British political context following the 2016 European Union referendum buttress the claim that UK politics is shaped by twin processes of centralisation and fragmentation, reinforcing tensions between a centre that desires power and a range of forces eroding its capacity to deliver. Our overall contention is that the notion of ‘power without capacity’ effectively captures the contemporary character of the ‘centre’.
Police Violence Exposure and Traumatic Stress Among Youth: A Systematic Review
Authors: Oppenheim Shoshana , Webb Lindsey , Testa Alexander , Fix Rebecca L. , Clary Laura , Mendelson Tamar , Jackson Dylan B.
Published: June 2024

Youth exposure to violence increases the risk of poor mental and physical health outcomes lasting into adulthood. Traumatic stress is an outcome of particular concern as the physiological stress response impacts the developing brain. Recently, youth exposure to police violence has been conceptualized as an adverse childhood experience that may impact traumatic stress. To examine this possibility, we conducted a systematic review, drawing upon five databases to gather the existing quantitative and qualitative peer-reviewed research on exposure to police violence and traumatic stress in youth. Searches yielded 27 relevant articles utilizing various study designs: thirteen quantitative, thirteen qualitative, and one mixed method. Twenty-six of the 27 studies found evidence of a relationship between police violence exposure and traumatic stress in youth. Police violence was associated with youth traumatic stress across three types of exposures: direct, vicarious, and anticipated. Studies also explored differential impacts by race and gender. The review revealed current gaps in the literature, such as a lack of data on select sociodemographic groups (e.g., rural youth, LGBTQ+ youth) and potential protective factors (e.g., resilience and school connectedness). In line with the findings, we put forth a research agenda as well as policy and practice recommendations to improve police interactions with youth and mental health services for youth who have been exposed to police violence. Recommendations include improving systematic data collection to track all types of police violence exposure, creating spaces for positive police interactions with youth, and training mental health practitioners to support youth exposed to police violence.
Does Interaction With Out-Party Elites in a Classroom Setting Diminish Negative Partisanship?
Authors: Frederick Samuel , Miller Michael G. , Green Donald P.
Published: June 2024

The American electorate is increasingly affectively polarized. Partisans dislike members of the opposing party, even going so far as to discriminate against opposing partisans in nonpolitical domains. Given the potentially pernicious consequences of affective polarization, especially in nonpolitical settings, scholars have suggested facilitating contact between members of opposing parties as a means of reducing affective polarization. We test this approach in the context of a large introductory American government class comprised almost entirely of Democrats. Our pre-registered experiment randomly assigned recitation sections to treatment or control conditions, where the treatment was an hour-long discussion with a county chair from the Republican Party, and the control was an hour-long discussion with an attorney with no party connection. Partisan attitudes and evaluations were measured extensively at baseline, within a few days of the intervention, and two months later. We find no evidence that the treatment changed students’ partisan evaluations. We conclude by considering theoretical avenues for future experiments that change the nature and extent of cross-party social interaction.
Effects of A2 Pulley Venting on Bowstringing and Tendon Slack: A Biomechanical Investigation
Authors: Shipley Tyler , Vanhoof-Villalba Stephanie Leah , Lee Seokgi , Saxena Tara , Adcock William , Bilderback Karl , Barton R. Shane , Solitro Giovanni F.
Published: June 2024

Background:

A2 pulley release is often needed for exposure of the lacerated tendon, retrieval of retracted tendons, placement of core sutures, or to permit full motion and gliding of the repaired and edematous tendon. However, there is no agreement in the literature on the specific quantity of pulley venting that can be performed and recommendations are limited to an undefined “judicious release” of the pulleys when necessary.

Methods:

Following a previously developed testing protocols, finger kinematics, tendon excursion, and bowstringing were evaluated on cadaveric hands for venting in increments of 20% of the pulley length.

Results:

In our study, we found a statistically significant influence of venting on bowstringing, although no difference was found between fingers, and a significant difference in tendon slack, which was variable depending on the finger. Bowstringing started increasing at 20% of A2 venting and peaked at full release. Tendon slack did not start until 40% of A2 venting on the index finger, but started at 20% on the middle, ring, and small fingers.

Conclusions:

Venting of the A2 pulley leads to an incremental increase in tendon bowstringing and tendon slack. However, differences in metacarpophalangeal flexion angle were not observed until full A2 pulley release, and only observed in the index finger, and no differences were observed in proximal interphalangeal flexion angles. Therefore, the benefit of releasing the A2 pulley when clinically necessary will likely outweigh the risks of loss of motion or strength.
Regulation of Osteosarcoma Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion by miR-143 and miR-199a Through COX-2 Targeting
Authors: Bixin Huang , Yuling Zheng , Ying Mai , Jinming Chen , Zhang Zhongqi
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the biological role of miR-143 and miR-199a in mediating the progression of osteosarcoma (OS) by targeting cyclooxygenase (COX-2).

Introduction

COX-2 plays a crucial role in the development and progression of OS. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms of COX-2 in OS are still not well understood.

Methods

The expression levels of COX-2, miR-143 and miR-199a in OS tissues were detected using immunohistochemistry, qPCR, or western blot assays. The targeting relationship between miRNAs and COX-2 was determined. The effect of miRNA and COX-2 on OS cells was evaluated in vitro and in vivo.

Results

COX-2 expression was upregulated while miR-143 and miR-199a were downregulated in OS tissues. miR-143 and miR-199a suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells. The dual-luciferase reporter gene assay showed that COX-2 was a direct target of miR-143 and miR-199a. Genetic knockdown of COX-2 significantly suppressed cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and inhibited migration and invasion of OS cells. The expression levels of COX-2 and PGE2 were decreased after the overexpression of miR-143 and miR-199a. Additionally, COX-2 silencing inhibited the tumorigenesis of OS and the synthesis of PGE2 in vivo.

Conclusions

miR-143 and miR-199a/COX-2 axis modulates the proliferation, invasion, and migration in osteosarcoma.
Whose Um Voice is it Anyway? Leveraging “Thick Transcription” to Promote Inclusion in Qualitative Research Through Transcript Alignment
Authors: Whitney Clare , Evered Jane , Patrick Briana , Lee Ga
Published: June 2024

There is an increasing expectation to demonstrate research equity awareness which charges researchers with the responsibility to methodologically attend to issues of ethical and equitable inclusion in qualitative research. While many strategies toward this end have made strides in improving research inclusion in terms of enhancing inclusive participation in research, little evidence is available to guide researchers in promoting inclusive representation in research. We examine the conceptual and practical relevance of transcription for addressing inclusive representation in qualitative research through the introduction of “transcript alignment” as an alternative to transcript cleaning, transcript checking and reviewing transcripts for verbatim accuracy. Practically, transcript alignment addresses seven common pitfalls of axio-analytic neutrality that impact inclusive representation: missing data, mistaking data, tidying data, overlooking data, shrinking data, sanitizing data, and removing data. Integrating transcript alignment into their practice, qualitative researchers can reaffirm the naturalistic tenet of “investigator as instrument,” generate “thick transcription,” and ultimately carry forward an ethos of participant inclusion throughout data analysis and presentation activities. Continued assessment and refinement of the practical application of the concept of transcript alignment has potential to enhance ethical and inclusive research conduct across all phases of the research process.
Researching With Lived Experience: A Shared Critical Reflection Between Co-Researchers
Authors: Dembele Lula , Nathan Sally , Carter Allison , Costello Jane , Hodgins Michael , Singh Rose , Martin Bianca , Cullen Patricia
Published: June 2024

This paper draws together critical learnings from diverse qualitative health research projects in Australia that sought to shift power and focus on the strengths and expertise of people with lived experience who are involved as co-researchers. These projects have included exploring and challenging identities, understanding experiences in treatment programs, critiquing and designing/re-designing services, and sharing experiences with the wider community in novel and innovative ways. Lived experiences included alcohol and other drug dependency, mental health, domestic, family or sexual violence, and living with HIV. This paper provides important learnings and actions about partnering with co-researchers with lived experience. In this paper we draw on a process of reflective discussions that occurred over six months with fortnightly online meetings between co-researchers, including co-authors with lived experience external to academia and university-based researchers, some of whom also have lived-experience that intersects with their research. From this, we distilled key learnings across seven themes: (1) the ethics of ethics, which highlights a need for constant reflection on the ethical issues in co-research; (2) recruiting co-researchers, which focuses on ensuring and integrating a diversity of voices; (3) creating safety for all, which must be a priority of engagement and support self-determination; (4) supporting different ways of partnering, which emphasises the need for diverse roles and ways to contribute on research teams; (5) capacity building and training, which requires ongoing evaluation of needs and tailored responses; (6) positioning, which highlights the need to transition from the idea of vulnerability to a strengths-based perspective of lived experience; and (7) power plays, reflecting the need to disrupt the dynamics and established hierarchies of privileging certain forms of knowledge and expertise. The paper includes recommendations for action against these seven themes.
Impact performance optimization for hydraulic rock drill based on stroke and flow compensation factors
Authors: Chang Siyuan , Ye Min , Zhang Daqing , Ma Yuchuan , Zhang Jiale
Published: June 2024

In response to the issues of overheating of the shell and insufficient impact energy of the hydraulic rock drill, this paper focuses on the hydraulic rock drill with alternating front and rear return chambers. By establishing nonlinear and linear dynamic models, the influence of stroke amount and flow compensation on the hydraulic system is investigated, and an optimization method for impact characteristics is proposed. Considering factors such as hydraulic clamping force, fluid leakage, and rock properties, a feedback control numerical model is established for the impact system. This model is based on principles drawn from wave dynamics and fluid dynamics theories. It elucidates the dynamic characteristics of the impact piston, reversing valve, and high-pressure accumulator. Combining three linear models, this study investigates the influence of the advance amount of the return signal chamber and the gas pre-charge pressure of the high-pressure accumulator on the impact characteristics. A thorough laser experiment has been created to evaluate the actual rock drilling capabilities of the impact system. Proposed optimal parameters are tested experimentally to compare the impact performance before and after the enhancement. The results indicate an increase in impact power, validating the effectiveness of the proposed improvement method.
Evaluation of circulating CD4+CD25+CD127−/low regulatory T cells in newly diagnosed hepatitis C-infected patients
Authors: Asadipour Morvarid , Khansalar Soolmaz , Rezaei Kahmini Fatemeh , Eshkevar Vakili Mahsa , Ataollahi Mohammad Reza , Ali-Hassanzadeh Mohammad , Shams Keivan , Faghih Zahra , Kalantar Kurosh
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the most global health problems with 2.5% prevalence worldwide. It seems that regulatory T (Treg) cells, which are able to modulate the host immune responses, play a substantial role in the immunopathogenesis of HCV infection. In this study, we evaluated the distribution of Treg cells in HCV-infected patients and its correlation with viral load and clinical manifestations.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from 14 newly diagnosed HCV-infected patients and 23 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects, and the frequency of CD4+CD25+CD127−/low Treg cells was determined by flow cytometry.

Results

Our results showed that the mean level of CD4+CD25+CD127−/low Treg cells in HCV-infected patients was significantly higher than that in healthy control subjects (8.2 ± 1.48% vs 5.4 ± 0.36%, p < .05). However, there was no statistical correlation between Treg cells frequency and viral load or clinical manifestations.

Conclusion

A higher proportion of Treg cells in HCV-infected patients might indicate their critical role in viral persistence and candidate them as a new target of immunotherapy to improve antiviral immunity.
Asymmetries of responsibility in self-managing organization: Authoring shared and hierarchical control
Authors: Koistinen Joona , Vuori Johanna
Published: June 2024

We studied change initiatives towards self-managing organization in five companies, focusing on changes in leader-follower relations. Our discursive analysis based on interviews of 18 middle-managers and 38 employees suggests that organizational members identify with different types of responsibilities depending on their organizational position. We grouped these responsibilities into four orientations – organizational, institutional, coordination, and individual/work – that involve both synergistic and antagonistic elements, reflecting a plurality of interests and organizational concerns. When the authority relations between ‘leaders’ and ‘followers’ were weakened in the case organizations, these asymmetries of responsibility pushed the authoring of organizational activities into divergent trajectories. Sometimes this divergence was perceived by managers as conflicting with the organizational or institutional responsibilities they identified with. Managers controlled this tension both by influencing their subordinates’ authoring normatively and by resorting to hierarchical control practices in situations and authoring arenas perceived as critical. This resulted in hybrid arrangements including both shared and hierarchical forms of control. Eventually, one of the companies remained in and another one reintroduced conventional hierarchical structures. Accordingly, we discuss our reservations regarding the emancipatory enthusiasm around shared forms of control, as the shared mode of control seems to ‘work’ as long as employee authoring is contained within managerial power and interests.
Anatomical distribution and treatment of paediatric hand fractures: a multi-centre study of 749 patients in the Netherlands
Authors: de Haas Louise , van Oorschot Hanneke , van Hoorn Bastiaan , de Bruin Ivar , Schep Niels , van Heijl Mark ,   Snapshot Hand Fractures Collaborative Study Group
Published: June 2024

This study describes the anatomical distribution of paediatric metacarpal and phalangeal fractures and evaluates treatment methods for each fracture type. A multicentre study was conducted over a 3-month period in the Netherlands. A total of 749 consecutive patients, aged 0–17 years, with single metacarpal or phalangeal fractures were included. Physeal fractures of the proximal phalanx were most common ( n = 135, 17%), followed by proximal interphalangeal joint palmar plate avulsion fractures ( n = 81, 10%) and proximal phalanx shaft fractures ( n = 80, 10%). Treatment methods varied: 63 (47%) patients with proximal phalanx physeal fractures were allowed mobilisation of their fingers, while 70 (51%) were immobilised; 53 (65%) patients with proximal interphalangeal joint palmar plate avulsion fractures were allowed mobilisation, while 28 (35%) were immobilised; and 33 (41%) patients with proximal phalanx shaft fractures were allowed mobilisation, while 42 (52%) were immobilised. The study identified substantial treatment variability in common fractures, providing information and insights for future research directions.

Level of evidence:

II
Identification and in silico structural analysis for the first de novo mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator protein in Iran: case report and developmental insight using microsatellite markers
Authors: Hosseini Nami Amin , Kabiri Mahboubeh , Zafarghandi Motlagh Fatemeh , Shirzadeh Tina , Bagherian Hamideh , Zeinali Razie , Karimi Ali , Zeinali Sirous
Published: June 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disease caused by the inheritance of two mutant cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) alleles, one from each parent. Autosomal recessive disorders are rarely associated with germline mutations or mosaicism. Here, we propose a case of paternal germline mutation causing CF. The subject also had an identifiable maternal mutant allele. We identified the compound heterozygous variants in the proband through Sanger sequencing, and in silico studies predicted functional effects on the protein. Also, short tandem repeat markers revealed the de novo nature of the mutation. The maternal mutation in the CFTR gene was c.1000C > T. The de novo mutation was c.178G > A, p.Glu60Lys. This mutation is located in the lasso motif of the CFTR protein and, according to in silico structural analysis, disrupts the interaction of the lasso motif and R-domain, thus influencing protein function. This first reported case of de novo mutation in Asia has notable implications for molecular diagnostics, genetic counseling, and understanding the genetic etiology of recessive disorders in the Iranian population.
Scrutinising the China’s rules on trial in absentia through the lens of the extradition law requirements of the European Union and the United States
Authors: Yin Yanhong
Published: June 2024

China revised its Criminal Procedure Law in 2018 and legislated on the system of “trial in absentia” for the first time in criminal matters. An important aim of the enactment of this Law is to facilitate the extradition of corrupt Chinese officials who fled abroad. European countries and the US are the main destinations to which China’s extradition requests are issued. This article evaluates China’s system of trial in absentia using as benchmarks the rules on trial in absentia in the US’s extradition system and in the European Union’s extradition system. This research finds that China’s legislation on trial in absentia system needs more clarification regarding individual rights protection in order to satisfy the US’s and European extradition standards. At the same time, the overall development of China’s criminal justice system which affects China’s general international image also concerns the particular function of trial in absentia procedure in China’s extradition cooperation with the US and the European countries.
Secondary debris resulting from concrete slabs subjected to contact detonations – Spatial velocity distribution and influence of steel fibers
Authors: Hupfauf Moritz , Gebbeken Norbert
Published: June 2024

The present work addresses the secondary debris from concrete slabs subjected to contact detonations. The secondary debris is propelled away from the concrete structure on its protective side and can cause severe injuries to persons and damage technical installations. The analysis is based on a series of experimental tests using a newly developed test setup. This setup allows a detailed analysis of the protective side of the concrete slab regarding the spatial velocity distribution of the secondary debris and the preceding fragmentation of the concrete. Both the spatial velocity distribution of the secondary debris and the geometry of the spalling crater are approximated by rotationally symmetric descriptions to derive the kinetic energy of the secondary debris. The derived kinetic energy of the secondary debris is then used for a quantitative evaluation of steel fibers in the concrete.
Selling schools: U.S. educational publicity in the early twentieth century
Authors: Cieslik-Miskimen Caitlin
Published: June 2024

This article explores educational public relations by analyzing publicity material that urged public school administrators and educators to adopt formal public relations programs in the 1920s and 1930s. This moment represents a critical juncture for the United States’ public schools, and understanding the motivations behind the push for publicity programs can help us better understand the diverse contexts in which public relations strategies and tactics have been deployed. This study addresses the call for public relations history to broaden its scope of inquiry beyond corporate and political communication and allows for a more complete historical picture of public relations as a field.
Severe (>100 Degrees) Thoracic Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis – A Comparison of Surgical Approaches
Authors: Stone Lauren E. , Newton Peter O. , Catanzano Anthony A. , Oba Hiroki , Lenke Lawrence G. , Boachie-Adjei Oheneba , Kelly Michael P. , Gupta Munish C. ,   Harms Study Group,   Fox Study Group
Published: June 2024

Study Design

Retrospective.

Objective

Severe curves >100° in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) are rare and require careful operative planning. The aim of this study was to assess baseline, perioperative, and 2-year differences between anterior release with posterior instrumentation (AP), posterior instrumentation with posterior column osteotomies (P), and posterior instrumentation with 3-column vertebral osteotomies (VCR).

Methods

Two scoliosis datasets were queried for primary cases of severe thoracic AIS (≥100°) with 2-year follow-up. Pre- and 2-year postoperative radiographic measures (2D and estimated 3D kyphosis), clinical measurements, and SRS-22 outcomes were compared between three approaches.

Results

Sixty-one patients were included: 16 AP (26%), 38 P (62%), 7 VCR (11%). Average age was 14.4 ± 2.0 years; 75.4% were female. Preoperative thoracic curve magnitude (AP: 112°, P: 115°, VCR: 126°, P = 0.09) and T5-T12 kyphosis (AP: 38°, P: 59°, VCR: 70°, P = 0.057) were similar between groups. Estimated 3D kyphosis was less in AP vs P (−12° vs 4°, P = 0.016). Main thoracic curves corrected to 36° in AP vs 49° and 48° for P and VCR, respectively ( P = 0.02). Change in estimated 3D kyphosis was greater in AP vs P and VCR (34° vs 13°, P = 0.009; 34° vs 7°, P = 0.046). One incomplete spinal cord injury had residual deficits (P; 1/61, 1.6%). All SRS-22 domains improved postoperatively.

Conclusion

All approaches obtained satisfactory coronal and sagittal correction, but AP had smaller residual coronal deformity and greater kyphosis restoration than the other approaches. This information may help inform the decision of whether to include an anterior release for large thoracic AIS curves.
A Rare Case of Anti-TIF-1γ Antibody Positive Dermatomyositis in Adulthood
Authors: Agrawal Upasana , Sondhi Manush , Zamora Smith Alexandra , Nida Syeda Sara , Umer Sarwat , Hayat Samina , Muzaffar Kinza
Published: June 2024

Dermatomyositis (DM) presents with inflammatory myopathy and distinct skin manifestations, often linked to specific autoantibodies. Anti-transcriptional intermediary factor-1 gamma (TIF-1γ) antibodies (Abs) are typically linked to DM in older patients and malignancy in 15% to 40% of cases. We highlight a case of a 24-year-old female who presented with weakness of proximal muscles, periorbital edema, heliotrope rash, erosions on oral mucosa, and painful scaly rash on the lower extremities. Transcriptional intermediary factor-1 gamma Abs were positive, confirming inflammatory myopathy. Treatment with steroid pulse therapy and immunoglobulin led to improvement. Evaluation for malignancy yielded unremarkable results. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing DM with TIF-1γ Ab positive, even in atypical demographics, and highlights the need for comprehensive malignancy evaluation.
The Impact of Organization-Employee Dialogic Communication on Employee Engagement in Remote Work
Authors: Qin Yufan Sunny
Published: June 2024

The goal of this study is to expand current knowledge on employee engagement in remote work by investigating the effect of dialogic communication on remote employee engagement. Drawing on dialogic theory and social exchange theory, the study tested a conceptual model that examines how organizational dialogic communication can enhance remote employees’ psychological need satisfaction for relatedness and organizational identification, ultimately leading to increased employee engagement. The study surveyed 527 full-time employees who work remotely in the United States, providing empirical evidence that contributes to the theoretical understanding of organizational communication and employee engagement in remote work environments.
A 3D agent-based model for simulating urban densification in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Burke Richard , Sengupta Raja , Ford Alistair
Published: June 2024

The use of land parcel data, 3D visualisation and urban theories offers a significant opportunity for advancing simulations of urban densification. This paper presents a 3D agent-based model (ABM) to explore future urban densification dynamics in Toronto based on stakeholder behaviour and interactions, the impact of zoning regulations, and profit expectations. The ABM establishes residents, developers, landowners, and the local zoning authority as primary actors involved in urban densification. This model replicates the Toronto urban development process through a structured framework of submodels which represent different stages of this process, based on the literature and gentrification theories. Three different scenarios are developed which show the city is projected to experience between 46 and 98 new developments by the year 2040. Average building height could increase by 17% to 56%, and the city could have 10,238 to 25,070 new units to meet future population demand. These simulations characterise Toronto’s future capacity for urban densification, realise the levels of densification required to meet Toronto’s growing population, and ultimately provide a more comprehensive understanding of the city’s future transformation.
Emerging genetic technologies informing personalized medicine in Shwachman-Diamond syndrome and other inherited BMF disorders
Authors: Cull Alyssa H. , Kent David G. , Warren Alan J.
Published: June 2024

Ribosomopathy Shwachman-Diamond syndrome (SDS) is a rare autosomal recessive inherited bone marrow failure syndrome (IBMFS) caused by mutations in the Shwachman-Bodian-Diamond syndrome gene, which is associated with an increased risk of myeloid malignancy. Tracking how hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) clonal dynamics change over time, assessing whether somatic genetic rescue mechanisms affect these dynamics, and mapping out when leukemic driver mutations are acquired is important to understand which individuals with SDS may go on to develop leukemia. In this review, we discuss how new technologies that allow researchers to map mutations at the level of single HSC clones are generating important insights into genetic rescue mechanisms and their relative risk for driving evolution to leukemia, and how these data can inform the future development of personalized medicine approaches in SDS and other IBMFSs.
How I treat infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Bartram Jack , Ancliff Philip , Vora Ajay
Published: June 2024

Infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is an aggressive malignancy that has historically been associated with a very poor prognosis. Despite large cooperative international trials and incremental increases in intensity of therapy, there has been no significant improvement in outcome over the last 3 decades. Using representative cases, we highlight the key differences between KMT2A-rearranged and KMT2A–germ line infant ALL, and how advances in molecular diagnostics are unpicking KMT2A–germ line genetics and guiding treatment reduction. We focus on KM2TA-rearranged infant B-cell ALL for which the last few years have seen the emergence of novel therapies that both are more effective and less toxic than conventional chemotherapy. Of these, there is promising early data on the efficacy and tolerability of the bispecific T-cell engager monoclonal antibody, blinatumomab, as well as the use of autologous and allogeneic chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy. We discuss how we can improve risk stratification and incorporate these new agents to replace the most toxic elements of currently deployed intensive chemotherapy schedules with their associated unacceptable toxicity.
Genome-wide identification and mining elite allele variation of the Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) gene family in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Zhou Zhibin , Chen Yao , Yan Mengyuan , Zhao Shuqi , Li Feifei , Yu Shuxun , Feng Zhen , Li Libei
Published: June 2024

Background

Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) genes belong to the alpha/beta hydrolase superfamily, catalyze the terminal step of triglyceride (TAG) hydrolysis, converting monoacylglycerol (MAG) into free fatty acids and glycerol.

Results

In this study, 30 MAGL genes in upland cotton have been identified, which have been classified into eight subgroups. The duplication of GhMAGL genes in upland cotton was predominantly influenced by segmental duplication events, as revealed through synteny analysis. Furthermore, all GhMAGL genes were found to contain light-responsive elements. Through comprehensive association and haplotype analyses using resequencing data from 355 cotton accessions, GhMAGL3 and GhMAGL6 were detected as key genes related to lipid hydrolysis processes, suggesting a negative regulatory effect.

Conclusions

In summary, MAGL has never been studied in upland cotton previously. This study provides the genetic mechanism foundation for the discover of new genes involved in lipid metabolism to improve cottonseed oil content, which will provide a strategic avenue for marker-assisted breeding aimed at incorporating desirable traits into cultivated cotton varieties.
Adoption of the cardiopulmonary exercise test in the exercise ability and cardiopulmonary function rehabilitation of coronary artery disease (CAD) patients
Authors: Wang Lingling , Mei Fan , Min Mengyi , He Xiuyan , Luo Lili , Ma Youxia
Published: June 2024

Background

This study aimed to explore the application of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients, evaluate its impact on exercise ability and cardiopulmonary function in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD), and promote the application of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in CAD management.

Methods

Fifty CHD patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were recruited and randomly enrolled into the control (Ctrl) group and intervention (Int) group. Routine health education and health education combined with RT training were carried out for the two groups. Blood lipid levels and lung function were compared between the two groups after intervention. Cardiac function was evaluated by Doppler ultrasonography, and cardiopulmonary fitness and exercise ability were evaluated by a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). The self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) and self-rating depression scale (SDS) were employed to evaluate negative emotions. The 36-item short-form (SF-36) was adopted to evaluate quality of life.

Result

: Compared with those in the Ctrl group, the levels of serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) decreased in the Int group, while the levels of high-density lipoprotein increased (P < 0.05). The quantitative load results showed that compared with the Ctrl group, the heart rate (HR) and self-perceived fatigue degree of the Int group decreased, and the ST segment increased (P < 0.05). Compared with the Ctrl group, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), forced expiratory volume at 1 s (FEV1), ratio of forced expiratory volume to forced vital volume (FEV1/FVC%), and maximum chase volume (MVV) increased in the Int group, while the left ventricular end diastolic diameter and left ventricular end contractile diameter decreased (P < 0.05). The results of the CPET showed that compared with the Ctrl group, minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production slope, VE/VCO2 − Peak, anaerobic threshold (AT), peak oxygen pulse (VO2/HR peak), oxygen uptake efficiency platform (OUEP), increasing power exercise time (IPEt), HR recovery 1 min after exercise, peak load power (Watt peak), and value metabolic equivalent (Watt peak) increased in the Int group (P < 0.05). Compared with the Ctrl group, the SAS and SDS scores in the Int group decreased (P < 0.05). The results of the quality of life evaluation showed that compared with the Ctrl group, the score of the SF-36 dimensions increased in the Int group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

RT training can reduce postoperative blood lipid and quantitative load levels in CAD patients and improve adverse mood. Furthermore, it can improve patients’ cardiopulmonary function, cardiopulmonary fitness, exercise ability, and quality of life.
The evolution of TAVI performance overtime: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Angioletti Carmen , Moretti Giaele , Manetti Stefania , Pastormerlo Luigi , Vainieri Milena , Passino Claudio
Published: June 2024

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a well-established treatment for high and intermediate-risk patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Recent studies have demonstrated non-inferiority of TAVI compared to surgery in low-risk patients. In the past decade, numerous literature reviews (SLRs) have assessed the use of TAVI in different risk groups. This is the first attempt to provide an overview of SRs (OoSRs) focusing on secondary studies reporting clinical outcomes/process indicators. This research aims to summarize the findings of extant literature on the performance of TAVI over time.

Methods

A literature search took place from inception to April 2024. We searched MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library for SLRs. SLRs reporting at least one review of clinical indicators were included. Subsequently, a two-step inclusion process was conducted: [1] screening based on title and abstracts and [2] screening based on full-text papers. Relevant data were extracted and the quality of the reviews was assessed.

Results

We included 33 SLRs with different risks assessed via the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score. Mortality rates were comparable between TAVI and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement (SAVR) groups. TAVI is associated with lower rates of major bleeding, acute kidney injury (AKI) incidence, and new-onset atrial fibrillation. Vascular complications, pacemaker implantation, and residual aortic regurgitation were more frequent in TAVI patients.

Conclusion

This study summarizes TAVI performance findings over a decade, revealing a shift to include both high and low-risk patients since 2020. Overall, TAVI continues to evolve, emphasizing improved outcomes, broader indications, and addressing challenges.