bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phytotherapeutic Effects of Ashanti Pepper and Horn of Plenty in Sleep Disorder Management Resulting from Stress-Induced Neurobehavioral Alterations
Authors: Oluwaseun Akingbesote , Salawu Sule , Justina Bashorun
Published: April 2024

This investigation explores the potential antidepressant effects arising from the inherent bioactive compounds found in Cnestis ferruguinea and Piper guineense. Both botanical entities contain flavonoids, phenolics, saponins, and tannins, which are known for their anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antioxidant properties. It is worth noting that Cnestis ferruguinea also contains terpenoids, which are recognized for their anxiolytic effects. Given the growing interest in nutritional interventions for neuropsychiatric conditions, our study meticulously examines the antioxidant capacities and anxiolytic properties of these phytochemicals, positioning them as potential regulators of brain health, particularly in the realm of sleep disorders. In response to the increasing demand for therapeutic alternatives with reduced side effects, our inquiry thoroughly examines the antioxidant and anxiolytic profiles of these botanical extracts. Of particular importance, Cnestis ferruguinea exhibits superior antioxidant potential compared to Piper guineense, thus warranting further investigation into its pharmacological utility. Subsequent analysis of the effects of Cnestis ferruguinea on sleep architecture, especially in the context of chronic stress, reveals promising results. The botanical extract significantly prolongs sleep duration in rats exposed to stress, suggesting a potential dual role in mitigating stress-induced neurobehavioral changes and depressive symptoms. Additionally, a noticeable decrease in immobility duration in the forced swim test, along with improvements in acetylcholinesterase levels following Cnestis ferruguinea treatment, provides mechanistic insights into its antidepressant effects. Our findings provide substantial evidence to support the pharmacotherapeutic potential of Cnestis ferruguinea, highlighted by its antioxidant abilities and anxiolytic effects. Further investigations should delve into the intricate molecular pathways underlying these effects, potentially paving the way for innovative botanical-based interventions in neuropsychiatric disorders, particularly those associated with stress-induced neurobehavioral changes and sleep disorders.
Structural-Parametric Models and Transfer Functions of Electromagnetoelastic Actuators Nano- and Microdisplacement for Mechatronic Systems
Authors: Mikhailovich Afonin Sergey
Published: April 2024

Structural-parametric models, parametric structural schematic diagrams and transfer functions of electromagnetoelastic actuators are determined. A generalized parametric structural schematic diagram of the electromagnetoelastic actuator is constructed. Effects of geometric and physical parameters of actuators and external load on its dynamic characteristics are determined. For calculations the mechatronic systems with piezoactuators for nano- and microdisplacement the parametric structural schematic diagrams and the transfer functions of piezoactuators are obtained.
Determination and Analysis of Radiation Shielding Properties of Some Selected Building Materials
Authors: Edmund Elisha , Amoako Joseph , Deatanyah Philip , Matulanya Machibya
Published: April 2024

Background: Radiation shielding primarily is based on the principle of attenuation of beams of X-ray or gamma radiation by absorption or scattering of the radiation that results due to the interaction between penetrating radiation and matter, radiation shielding properties such as attenuation coefficients obtained as a result of interaction between X-rays and gamma rays with target materials helps to study and confirm the appropriate building materials used for radiation shielding purposes. The linear attenuation coefficient required by radiation engineers in the design and analysis of radiation facilities has been determined and analysed for both gamma ray source Cs-137 and X-ray sources for 662 keV and 60- 120 kVp respectively. Methods: The determination of linear attenuation coefficient was evaluated by the formulation of building materials such as lead, granite, aluminium and concrete by calculating and comparing both experimental and theoretical results for 662 keV and 60-120 kVp using collimated Source-Material-Detector geometry method and XCOM software respectively. Conclusion: The results agreed with similar experimental works and the use of XCOM software with a percentage deviation of 0.44% - 11% at the 95 % confidence level. It was concluded that the results will go in a long way in assisting engineers and radiation professionals in the design and protection of radiation facilities.
The value of N-acetylcysteine bronchoalveolar lavage in patients with severe traumatic brain injury combined with ventilator-associated pneumonia
Authors: Li Yujuan , Lu Jing
Published: April 2024

In order to improve the treatment of patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to effectively suppress the inflammatory response and enhance blood oxygen indicators, we conducted an innovative bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) treatment
using N-acetylcysteine (NAC). To conduct this study, we divided patients with VAP in severe TBI into a control (CTRL) group and a BAL group. The control group received BAL with saline, while the BAL group received BAL with NAC in addition to standard care. We compared the clinical treatment,
degree of inflammation, blood oxygen index, and safety of both groups pre- and post-BAL. The results showed that BAL with NAC was more effective in reducing the duration of antibiotic use, imaging uptake, fever reduction, mechanical ventilation, and ICU stay, as well as CPIS and APACHE II
scores. Moreover, the BAL group demonstrated greater improvement in ventilation, as indicated by increased values of PaO2, SaO2, and OI, and a more substantial decrease in PaCO2. Furthermore, BAL treatment effectively suppressed the level of inflammatory response
in the body and more significantly reduced TNF-α, CPR, PCT and MIP-1α levels. Adjuvant treatment with BAL effectively improved clinical outcomes and reduced mortality in severe TBI patients with VAP, while maintaining a high level of safety during the BAL operation.
Therefore, BAL using NAC holds significant potential in the salvage of patients with severe TBI combined with VAP.
Efficacy of the shape-memory alloy ring hugger and microplate in proximal clavicle fractures
Authors: Wang Linliang , Ma Lili , Li Liang , Xu Liping
Published: April 2024

The efficacy and safety of shape-memory alloy (SMA) ring hugger and microplate in the treatment of proximal clavicle fractures were compared to better improve the quality of patient rehabilitation and minimize complications. The mechanical properties of Ni-Ti alloy and Ti64Al4V (compressive
strength and elastic modulus) were examined in the physicochemical property tests, while, mouse osteoblasts were cultured to test their biocompatibility. Subsequently, clinical data of patients with clavicle fractures treated at our hospital from January 2012 to January 2022 were retrospectively
analyzed. The patients were divided into microplate and SMA groups based on the surgical methods, and the follow-up period was 1 year post-surgery. Clinical treatment, mobility and functional recovery (DASH score and Constant score) of the affected upper limb, numbness, and adverse effects
were compared between the two groups. SMA exhibited a compressive strength similar to that of Ti6Al4V, but its modulus of elasticity was significantly lower. Meanwhile, the results of the cellular experiments suggested that the addition of SMA and Ti6Al4V would not markedly decrease the osteoblast
activity, suggesting that both internal fixation implants had good biocompatibility. In addition, SMA ring hugger was effective in reducing operative time, intraoperative bleeding, wound size, fracture end healing time, and residual fracture shortening. In terms of postoperative assessment
of affected limb mobility, SMA ring hugger better improved the mobility of the affected shoulder in supination, abduction, adduction, and forward flexion, and was more effective in decreasing the DASH score and increasing the Constant score. Meanwhile, SMA ring hugger effectively reduced numbness
in the affected area and decreased the incidence of delayed wound healing, exercise restrictions, proliferative scars, and vegetative stimulus. Therefore, SMA ring hugger demonstrates favorable mechanical performance and biocompatibility, meanwhile, it can better promote postoperative functional
recovery of the affected limb in clavicle fracture patients with guaranteed safety.
Effect of Si substrate conductivity on surface acoustic wave resonator
Authors: Wu Dahao , Shuai Yao , Wei Zijie , Fan Wei , Li Peiran , Pan Xinqiang , Luo Wenbo , Wu Chuangui , Zhang Wanli
Published: April 2024

A surface acoustic wave (SAW) filter’s bandwidth and quality are determined by its resonators’ electromechanical coupling coefficient (k2) and impedance ratio (IR). Research commonly focuses on the effects of piezoelectric material and cutting direction
on these parameters. This paper investigates the effect of the conductivity of the Si substrate on k2 and IR through finite element method (FEM) simulations. A new model based on the modified Butterworth-van-Dyke (MBVD) model is presented. This new model takes into account
the substrate parasitic capacitance and resistance to predict resonator performance on low resistivity (LR) Si piezoelectric on insulator (POI) substrates. Both high resistivity (HR) Si and LR-Si are utilized to fabricate POI SAW resonators, which are subsequently tested. The high conductivity
of the Si support layer leads to a decrease in both k2 and IR. By employing Si substrates with different resistances during fabrication, it becomes possible to manufacture resonators with varying k2 values, thus meeting diverse bandwidth requirements for
filters.
Iliac Vein Stenting and Thrombectomy Result in Limb Salvage in Phlegmasia Caerulea Dolens as a Result of Heavy Fibroid Burden
Authors: Zamin Syed A. , Mitchell Marc
Published: April 2024

Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is a devastating sequelae of propagating deep vein thrombosis causing total venous outflow obstruction of an extremity. It is characterized by significant pain, edema, cyanosis, and critical limb ischemia and may progress toward venous gangrene. Morbidity and mortality rates associated with this phenomenon are high. Treatment options are limited and consist of early and aggressive therapeutic anticoagulation and fluid resuscitation, followed by thrombectomy or thrombolysis if the patient fails to respond clinically in 6-12 hours.
The Oncological Stress Test of Neoadjuvant Therapy: A Systematic Review in Outcomes of Neoadjuvant Therapy Compared to Upfront Resection Approach for Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ross Sharona B. , Popover Jesse , Sucandy Iswanto , Christodoulou Maria , Pattilachan Tara M. , Rosemurgy Alexander S.
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma, increasingly diagnosed in the United States, has a disheartening initial resection rate of 15%. Neoadjuvant therapy, particularly FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine-based regimens, is gaining favor for its potential to improve resectability rates and achieving microscopically negative margins (R0) in borderline resectable cases, marked by intricate arterial or venous involvement. Despite surgery being the sole curative approach, actual benefit of neoadjuvant therapy remains debatable. This study scrutinizes current literature on oncological outcomes post-resection of borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. A MEDLINE/PubMed search was conducted to systematically compare oncological outcomes of patients treated with either neoadjuvant therapy with intent of curative resection or an “upfront resection” approach. A total of 1293 studies were initially screened and 30 were included (n = 1714) in this analysis. All studies included data on outcomes of patients with borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma being treated with neoadjuvant therapy (n = 1387) or a resection-first approach (n = 356). Patients treated with neoadjuvant therapy underwent resection 52% of the time, achieving negative margins of 43% (n = 601). Approximately 77% of patients who received an upfront resection underwent a successful resection, with 39% achieving negative margins. Neoadjuvant therapy remains marginally efficacious in treatment of borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma, as patients undergo an operation and successful resection less often when treated with neoadjuvant therapy. Rates of curative resection are comparable, despite neoadjuvant therapy being a primary recommendation in borderline resectable cases and employed more often than upfront resection. Upfront resection may offer improved resection rates by intention-to-treat, which can provide more patients with paths to curative resection.
The Impact of Redosing Antibiotics for Pediatric Patients Undergoing Appendectomy for Complicated Appendicitis
Authors: Motta Monique , Garapaty Nikitha , Savage Margaret , Segarra Joann , Samuels Shenae , Parreco Joshua P. , Levene Tamar
Published: April 2024

Currently, there is no universally accepted, standardized protocol for pre-operative antibiotic administration in the setting of appendectomy for complicated appendicitis among pediatric patients. Strategies to mitigate surgical site infections (SSIs) must be balanced with optimal antibiotic use and exposure. We conducted a retrospective chart review to compare outcomes between patients treated pre-operatively with a single pre-operative dose of antibiotics with those who received additional antibiotics prior to laparoscopic appendectomy for complicated appendicitis between 2020 and 2022. Of 124 pediatric patients, 18% received an additional dose of pre-operative antibiotics after initial treatment dose. Surgical site infection rates between the two groups were not statistically significant ( P-value = .352), thereby suggesting that redosing antibiotics closer to the time of incision may not impact SSI rates. Additional studies are necessary to make clinical recommendations.
Differentiating Structurally Similar Fentanyl Analogs by Comparing Density Functional Theory (DFT) Calculations and Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) Results
Authors: Dogruer Erkok Sevde , Hernandez Emily , Cruz Jordi , Mebel Alexander M. , McCord Bruce
Published: April 2024

Fentanyl and fentanyl analogs are the main cause of recent overdose deaths in the United States. The presence of fentanyl analogs in illicit drugs makes it difficult to estimate their potencies. This makes the detection and differentiation of fentanyl analogs critically significant. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) can differentiate structurally similar fentanyl analogs by yielding spectroscopic fingerprints for the detected molecules. In previous years, five fentanyl analogs, carfentanil, furanyl fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, 4-fluoroisobutyryl fentanyl (4-FIBF), and cyclopropyl fentanyl (CPrF), gained popularity and were found in 76.4% of the fentanyl analogs trafficked. In this study, we focused on 4-FIBF, CPrF, and structurally similar fentanyl analogs. We developed methods to differentiate these fentanyl analogs using theoretical and experimental methods. To do this, a set of fentanyl analogs were examined using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The DFT results obtained in this project permitted the assignment of spectral bands. These results were then compared with normal Raman and SERS techniques. Structurally similar fentanyl analogs show important differences in their spectra, and they have been visually differentiated from each other both theoretically and experimentally. Additional results using principal component analysis and soft independent modeling of class analogy show they can be distinguished using this technique. The limit of detection values for FIBF and CPrF were determined to be 0.35 ng/mL and 4.4 ng/mL, respectively, using SERS. Experimental results obtained in this project can be readily implemented in field applications and smaller laboratories, where inexpensive portable Raman spectrometers are often present and used in drug analysis.
Prospects for intergenerational peace leadership: Reflections from Asia and the Pacific
Authors: Lee-Koo Katrina , Pruitt Lesley
Published: April 2024

In this article, we develop a model of intergenerational peace leadership (IPL) with a particular focus upon young women’s peace leadership. IPL remains under-theorised and under-recognised in both global policy and academic scholarship. We therefore outline and advocate for a young women-focussed IPL model as an opportunity for robust and sustainable peace leadership that aligns with broader UN-driven inclusive peace agendas. We begin the article with efforts to theorise IPL and situate it at the centre of inclusive and sustainable peace agendas. Second, we look at the challenges facing IPL, drawing from three case studies (Papua New Guinea/Bougainville, Nepal and Myanmar) of women’s peace leadership in Asia and the Pacific. While we do identify commitments to IPL in the region, we find significant barriers that undermine its transformative potential. These emerge from contested power dynamics and hierarchies between older and younger generations, which result in young women being marginalised, ignored and silenced within ostensibly intergenerational peace forums. We therefore argue that while IPL is an important link necessary for advancing inclusive peace agendas, we must identify and engage with the hierarchies that hinder its transformative potential.
Testing the Diathesis and Transactional Stress Models Among African American Adolescents
Authors: Lawrence Timothy I. , Ettekal Idean
Published: April 2024

Prior literature suggests that stress exposure is associated with elevated rates of depressive symptoms in African American adolescents. However, there is substantial within-group variability which may be attributable to differences in adolescents’ individual characteristics (e.g., self-esteem, coping styles), and interpersonal experiences (e.g., peer support). The current study first examined whether active coping, perceived peer support, self-esteem, and stress were associated with depressive symptoms. Then, drawing from the diathesis-stress, transactional stress, and stress-buffering models, we examined whether the effects of stress on depressive symptoms were moderated by self-esteem, active coping, and perceived peer support. Using a sample of African American adolescents ( n = 1,163; mean age = 13 years old; 54.2% girls), we found that active coping and stress were positively associated with depressive symptoms in contrast to self-esteem and perceived peer support. Interaction results suggested that active coping and self-esteem moderated the effects of stress on depressive symptoms. Implications are discussed.
A Review of U.S. Policy Guidance and Legislation on Restraint and Seclusion in Schools: Considerations for Improvement
Authors: Kern Laura , George Heather Peshak , Evanovich Lauren L. , Hodnett Jennifer M. , Freeman Jennifer
Published: April 2024

Restraint and seclusion (R/S) are practices employed by schools to address severe student behavior. Although the use of R/S has been shown to have harmful impact for students, staff, and schools, there is no federal law that addresses its use in schools. A lack of a universal approach leaves each state to determine its own legislation and policy. The current study seeks to extend previous research efforts on state policy guidance and legislation reviews on the use of R/S by reporting on key similarities and differences across states policy guidance and legislation. Specifically, policy guidance and legislation on the school use of R/S are reviewed from the U.S. states and territories, including Washington, D.C.; Puerto Rico; Guam; and the Virgin Islands. Most states and territories were found to have either legislation or policy guidance on the use of R/S in schools. However, there are many differences across the states, including on its use and reporting for students with disabilities. Findings are also compared with the proposed federal bill Keeping All Students Safe Act. Finally, given the lack of passage of the federal law, highlights and recommendations are provided for state leaders on considerations for improvement as R/S remains a state regulated educational issue.
Is Input Subsidy Regime in Indian Agriculture Environmentally Sustainable? An Econometric Investigation
Authors: Zafar Shadman , Tarique Md.
Published: April 2024

The empirical economics literature is devoid of a study that addresses the environmental effects of the agricultural subsidy regime. This deficiency has put a challenge before the policymakers and they have pursued agricultural subsidy by taking into account its private cost only, whereas social cost is much higher due to the involvement of environmental dynamics into it. The present article works to fill this void by empirically investigating the linkages between agricultural input subsidies and environmental emissions in India. To investigate the dynamic relationship, an autoregressive and distributed lag model is applied to annual time–series data from 1981 to 2019 because this method is best suited for the nature of the underlying data series. Research outcomes infer that while both fertiliser and irrigation subsidies exert positive and significant influences on emissions, irrigation subsidies have a relatively greater emission-enhancing effect. Key findings claim that the existing provision of subsidies is not sustainable because it leads to the excessive use of subsidised key inputs leading to greenhouse gas emission. The fact is that the pollution effects of even a limited amount of input are significant. A reduction in input subsidy which is leading to environmental degradation is a need of the hour. The farmers may be provided direct income support as compensation. Further, making a gradual shift towards subsidising organic farming practices called ‘smart subsidies’ and optimising input use are very crucial to achieve sustainable outcomes from the agricultural sector in the long run.

JEL Codes: C22, H25, O13, Q18, Q53
The Impact of COVID-19 on Grief: A Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis in Italy
Authors: De Vincenzo Ciro , Biancalani Gianmarco , Sani Livia , Bacqué Marie-Frédérique , Novelletto Livia , Scussolin Debora , Testoni Ines
Published: April 2024

This mixed-method research study delves into the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on loss and mental health in Italy. The analysis uncovers a significant correlation between COVID-19 fear and heightened anxiety, depression, and stress, exacerbated by social isolation and misinformation. The loss of loved ones during the pandemic intensifies distress, with 28% showing signs of prolonged disorder and 22.8% displaying maladaptive grief symptoms. Distress persists across pandemic phases (59.3% critical, 54.9% intermediate, 48.4% less critical), attributed to grief, fear, uncertainty, and isolation. Qualitative analysis identifies two core themes: ‘Death without Dying’ and ‘Online Grieving Practices and Coping Strategies,’ elucidating disruptions to traditional grieving and the role of online coping strategies. Our findings underscore the pandemic’s multifaceted impact on grief and mental health in Italy, highlighting the importance of addressing social and emotional needs during crises.
Fatigue and Performance Rates as Decision-Making Criteria in Pacing Control During CrossFit®
Authors: Ribeiro Guilherme , De Aguiar Rafael Alves , Tramontin Artur Ferreira , Martins Eduardo Crozeta , Caputo Fabrizio
Published: April 2024

We investigated fatigue and performance rates as decision-making criteria in pacing control during CrossFit®. Thirteen male regional-level competitors completed conditions of all-out (maximum physical work from beginning to end) and controlled-split (controlled physical work in the first two rounds but maximum work in the third round) pacing throughout the Fight Gone Bad workout separated by one week. We assessed benchmarks, countermovement jumps and ratings of fatigue after each round. Benchmarks were lower in round 1 (99 vs. 114, p < .001) but higher in rounds 2 (98 vs. 80, p < .001) and 3 (97 vs. 80, p < .001) for controlled-split compared with all-out pacing. Reductions in countermovement jumps were higher after rounds 1 (−12.6% vs. 1.6%, p < .001) and 2 (−12.7% vs. −4.0%, p = .014) but similar after round 3 (−13.2% vs. −11.3%, p = .571) for all-out compared with controlled-split pacing. Ratings of fatigue were higher after rounds 1 (7 vs. 5 a.u., p < .001) and 2 (8 vs. 7 a.u, p = .023) but similar after round 3 (9 vs. 9 a.u., p = .737) for all-out compared with controlled-split pacing. During all-out pacing, countermovement jump reductions after round 2 correlated with benchmark drops across rounds 1 and 2 ( r = .78, p = .002) and rounds 1 and 3 ( r = −.77, p = .002) and with benchmark workout changes between pacing strategies ( r = −.58, p = .036), suggesting that the larger the countermovement jump reductions the higher the benchmark drops across rounds and workouts. Therefore, benchmarks, countermovement jumps and ratings of fatigue may assess exercise-induced fatigue as decision-making criteria to improve pacing strategy during workouts performed for as many repetitions as possible.
Potential of powder metallurgical methods to fabricate Fe-6.5Si soft magnetic components
Authors: Lindemann-Geipel I. , Mix T. , Thamm M. , Höhnel C. , Weise B. , Reuter K. , Kirchner A. , Weißgärber T.
Published: April 2024

The soft magnetic Fe-6.5Si alloy is well known for its excellent soft magnetic properties but its usage is limited due to fabricational constrains by conventional methods. Powder metallurgical processing of Fe-6.5Si is possible by a variety of different methods shown here, sinter-based screen printing (SP), electron beam powder bed fusion (E-PBF) and field-assisted sintering (field-assisted sintering/spark plasma sintering, FAST/SPS). The microstructure of the components varies strongly by process and powder used which is directly influencing their soft magnetic properties. The correlation between powder properties and processing parameters on the structural and magnetic properties is established. Lowest coercivity ( H c = 7 A m−1) is achieved by E-PBF due to large grain size minimising hysteresis losses necessary for direct current applications. SP can provide sheets with low coercivity ( H c = 21 A m−1) and adjustable thickness reducing eddy current losses especially suitable for alternating current application at higher frequencies. FAST/SPS can be used for a large range of powder particle sizes which is suitable to tune the soft magnetic properties in a wide range between 40 and 210 A m−1.
Preparation of secondary mainstream teachers to ensure equitable outcomes for English learners
Authors: Huck Carla
Published: April 2024

Current trends in education, including a rapidly growing student population of English learners (ELs) in the United States requiring equitable education opportunities, have increased the need for all teachers to prepare themselves for culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms. Many secondary teachers enter the profession without completing formal teacher preparation programs and often require targeted professional development to overcome deficit beliefs and monolingual ideologies. Cultivating mainstream teachers who hold an asset-based philosophy toward multilingual learners and are well-prepared to effectively employ instructional strategies to teach content and language in their classrooms will help ensure that local program models successfully achieve their educational objectives. Research-based recommendations are provided for policies and practices to ensure secondary mainstream teachers receive high-quality professional development throughout all stages of their careers.
Advancing Equity Through Instructional Leadership Teams: A Theoretical Model
Authors: Berg Jill Harrison , Parad Benjamin D.
Published: April 2024

While instructional inequity persists throughout U.S. schools, urban schools serving students with a wide array of out-of-school factors that affect their schooling are especially challenged to ensure that Black and Brown students receive what they need to learn as consistently as white students do. Critical race theory helps explain why this inequity exists but does not explain how educators can address it. Drawing upon this theory and our experience with school-based Instructional Leadership Teams (ILTs), we use literature on transformational change, distributed leadership, and organizational learning to propose conditions under which ILTs can be engines for instructional equity.
Pyogenic liver abscess presenting as fatal fulminant acute liver failure – a case report
Authors: Chandelia Sudha
Published: April 2024

Liver abscess causing and presenting as acute liver failure is rare; it does not result in hepatitis as it causes focal hepatic necrosis. With drainage of pus, recovery is the rule. However, a child having multiple abscesses may present with acute fulminant liver failure.
Effect of group rational emotive behaviour therapy on mathematics anxiety on secondary school students
Authors: Mosimege Mogege , Oromena Egara Felix , Chinyere Nzeadibe Augustina , Chiedu Eseadi
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the effects of group rational emotive behaviour therapy on the mathematics anxiety of students in Nigerian secondary schools. In total, 118 senior secondary school students constituted the sample for the study: 63 learners were allocated to the experimental group and 55 learners to the control group. The instruments used for data collection were the Mathematics Anxiety Scale (primary outcome measure) and the Irrational Beliefs in Mathematics Scale (secondary outcome measure). The Mathematics Anxiety Scale was used to elicit information from the participants that enabled the researchers to randomly allocate them to the programmes of the treatment groups. The experimental group was exposed to the rational emotive behaviour therapy treatment, while the control group received conventional counselling. The treatment programme lasted 6 weeks. The results reveal that students in group rational emotive behaviour therapy, post-test, had experienced significantly more positive effects relating to mathematics anxiety and irrational beliefs about mathematics (effects that remained consistent at follow-up) than students in the control group.
Endoscopic Broad Palisade Cartilage Graft Without Raising a Tympanomeatal Flap in the Repair of Subtotal Perforation
Authors: Zhao Chaowei
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study evaluated the outcome of a broad palisade cartilage graft in the repair of subtotal perforation. Study Design: Prospective case series. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study of 43 patients with subtotal perforations who underwent an endoscopic broad palisade cartilage graft procedure that did not include raising a tympanomeatal flap. The patients were followed up for 6 months. Results: The 43 patients (43 ears) included in this study had a mean operation time of 38.6 ± 7.4 minutes. Five (11.6%) patients were lost to follow-up; 38 (88.4%) completed the 6 month follow-up. The graft success rate in the latter was 92.1% (35/38). Audiological testing showed no sensorineural threshold shift. The mean preoperative air-bone gap (ABG) was 28.4 ± 5.1 dB, while the mean ABG at 6 months postoperatively was 13.6 ± 3.1 dB; the difference between these values was significant ( P < .05; paired samples t test). According to the audiometry assessment, the successful surgery rate (postoperative ABG ≤ 20 dB) was 89.5% (34/38). No graft-related complications (eg, graft lateralization, significant blunting, graft medialization) were encountered during the follow-up period. However, granular myringitis with minimal moistness but without infection was noted in 5.3% (2/38) of the patients. Conclusions: In the repair of subtotal perforation, an endoscopic broad palisade cartilage graft, performed without raising a tympanomeatal flap, is simple and feasible, resulting in a high graft success rate and good hearing restoration.
Solitary Bone Plasmacytoma of the Skull Base With an Unusual Presentation
Authors: Huang Tien-Ru , Lin Chun-Shu , Chen Hsin-Chien
Published: April 2024

Solitary bone plasmacytoma (SBP) is a rare hematological malignancy that usually occurs in the spine and rarely in the skull. It rarely presents in the skull base, but presenting symptoms are associated with cranial nerve involvement depending on the site of the disease. We present the case of a 61-year-old man with an unusual presentation of hoarseness secondary to vocal fold palsy. Imaging showed a large bony lesion in the temporo-occipital region with involvement of the jugular foramen. Further detailed diagnostic procedures confirmed SBP of the skull base. Radiotherapy was given with an uneventful recovery of vocal fold function. Skull base plasmacytoma can be considered as a differential diagnosis of causes of unilateral vocal fold palsy. Early therapeutic management may improve vocal fold function.
“All Students Matter”: The Place of Race in Discourse on Student Debt in a Federal Higher Education Policymaking Process
Authors: Felix Eric R. , Gándara Denisa , Jones Sosanya
Published: April 2024

Background:

Nearly two decades have passed since the last successful reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. Since then, student loan debt and the accumulation patterns based on race have become a pressing issue to address in U.S. society.

Purpose:

Student debt is one of the key issues on the federal higher education policy agenda. The purpose of this paper is to examine how race is addressed in a congressional hearing held to discuss the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. Specifically, we examined one congressional policy markup hearing to understand how members frame student debt and the racialized dynamics embedded within.

Research Design:

We combined critical race theory and racial frames to discursively analyze 14 hours of congressional hearings on the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act. Through critical discourse analysis, we interrogated the racialized discourse among policymakers as they proposed solutions and alternatives to address the issue of student debt during the policy markup process.

Conclusions/Recommendations:

Our findings highlight four types of discourse within a policy markup hearing: “All Students” Matter, Paternalistic, Race-Evasive, and Explicit Racial Discourse. We offer recommendations for policymakers and researchers to contend with ahistoricism and race-evasiveness prevalent in policy markup hearings and ways for future policy proposals to be more explicit in naming the groups facing disproportionate negative impact, the mechanisms that produce such inequities, and interventions that can address them.
Seeking Organizational Geographies: A multidimensional spatial analysis of everyday organizing
Authors: Vandeventer James Scott , Lloveras Javier , Warnaby Gary
Published: April 2024

In the context of debates about organizational space, this paper undertakes a multidimensional spatial analysis of everyday organizing. Drawing on an extensive ethnographic study of a housing estate, we use the territory, place, scale, network framework to reveal processes of everyday spatial production that occur through territorial, place-based, scalar and networked organizing. Foregrounding the interplay of these dimensions, we identify four resulting tensions at work in everyday organizing: conflict and resistance, boundaries and (un)boundedness, stasis and movement and alterity and diversity. We propose that centring attention on these dynamics manifest what might be termed ‘organizational geographies’. Thus, we contribute an empirical demonstration of the ways in which organizing as a sociospatial process occurs during everyday life in a more ‘informal’ site, thereby extending the contextual repertoire of organization studies. We also contribute a methodological approach for organization scholars to analyse everyday spatial production as a multidimensional process, pointing to the potential for greater cross-disciplinary fertilization with human geography in future organization research.
Glitterati and Grit: The Perils and Possibilities of Sports Mega-Event Research
Authors: Boykoff Jules
Published: April 2024

Amid the whirling swirl of overlapping global crises—from extreme inequality and climate change to unaccountable elite power and securitized violence at the international and domestic levels—sport studies may, on their surface, appear superfluous. However, this article argues that critical academic scholarship on sports mega-events like the Olympic Games and soccer World Cup can, due to these events’ cultural power and global scope, be an effective way to simultaneously address the socio-structural problems that mark the 21st century. In this article, I argue that research on the cultural politics of sport can wedge open discursive space to challenge the hegemonic normative order and to potentially reap material gains from below. To that end, I delineate possible research avenues that sports mega-events stimulate, explicating the leverage they could achieve. Along the way, I argue for doing research and writing that is explicitly political. Last, leaning on recent examples of scholarship in sport studies and beyond, I assert the importance of concept building at the theoretical middle-level as well as writing critical descriptive histories.
Did relationship quality during the COVID-19 pandemic vary across cultural contexts?
Authors: Pietromonaco Paula R. , Hammond Matthew D. , Overall Nickola C. , Zoppolat Giulia , Balzarini Rhonda N. , Slatcher Richard B.
Published: April 2024

We examined whether the impact of the pandemic on couple relationships varied across cultural contexts. Following from studies showing better outcomes (lower disease risk, greater well-being) within cultures higher in tightness (having strong norms promoting conformity) or collectivism (vs. individualism), we predicted that tighter and more collectivistic contexts would be associated with better relationship functioning. Preregistered analyses using existing data collected during the pandemic ( N = 2510; 12 countries), indicated, counter to predictions, that individuals from countries higher in tightness or collectivism evidenced greater relationship conflict. Cultural context was unrelated to relationship quality. Stress, attachment insecurity, and perceived partner responsiveness predicted relationship quality during the pandemic, but cultural context generally did not moderate these links. Perceived partner responsiveness, however, predicted relationship quality more strongly within more collectivistic (vs. more individualistic) countries. We discuss possible explanations for these findings, limitations of the data, and the need for larger studies including a broader range of countries, individuals, and cultural contexts.
Motives to engage electronic word of mouth: A case of fashion products marketed in Sri Lanka
Authors: Dasanayaka DRCM , Karunarathne EACP
Published: April 2024

Drastic growth of social media users in the last few years has made electronic word of mouth (eWOM) communication more significant and has created a beneficial as well as detrimental platform for marketers. Therefore, recognizing the value of eWOM in social media networks can bring more benefits to firms since the content shared on social media platforms will be influential on the customers’ purchase decisions. This study was designed to identify the implications of consumer motives on eWOM involvement when they purchase fashion products through social media platforms. The study population represents active and frequent social media users in Sri Lanka. Data for the research study was collected through a structured questionnaire, and expertness, high fashion involvement, informational influence, altruism, self-enhancement, and attitude toward products were investigated as motives for eWOM involvement. The proposed study relationships were investigated using the structured equation modelling statistical technique, and multigroup analysis was performed to understand the moderating effect of social media usage intensity. Test results identified positive implications on eWOM involvement from two study variables: high fashion involvement and attitude toward the product. Meanwhile, a negative implication was noted with self-enhancement. The results showed that eWOM involvement has a strong positive impact on customer purchasing intentions. Further, the results of the moderating analysis confirmed the moderating behaviour of social media usage intensity. People with low social media usage intensity strengthen the relationship, which implies their information-searching tendency before making intentions to purchase a fashion product through social media. The study findings will assist fashion product marketers in figuring out how individuals participate in eWOM communication more effectively and the importance of customer feedback in encouraging the buying of fashion products.
Enhancement of strength–ductility combination and corrosion resistance behaviour in (FeCoNiCr)92Ti3.5Al4.5 high-entropy alloy
Authors: Zou Yun , Shen Rongtao , Lian Yang , Li Yang
Published: April 2024

The effects of thermo-mechanical treatment on the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance behaviour of the (FeCoNiCr)92Ti3.5Al4.5 (at.-%) high-entropy alloy (HEA) were studied. Compared with the untreated specimen, the yield and ultimate tensile strength increased by 227.5% and 129.4% after thermo-mechanical treatment, with ductility remaining almost constant. The results indicated that the grain size refined from 233.44 to 2.31 μm, and the dislocation density considerably increased from 2.69 × 1012 to 1.23 × 1014. Notably, after thermo-mechanical treatment, the formation of precipitates can narrow the passivation zone, thus increasing the tendency of pitting corrosion. The corrosion current decreased and the radius of the impedance curve increased, indicating the corrosion resistance behaviour improved, which was attributed to the grain refinement.
A palliative care goals model for people with dementia and their family: Consensus achieved in an international Delphi study
Authors: Nishimura Mayumi , Harrison Dening Karen , Sampson Elizabeth L , Vidal Edison Iglesias de Oliveira , Nakanishi Miharu , Davies Nathan , Abreu Wilson , Kaasalainen Sharon , Eisenmann Yvonne , Dempsey Laura , Moore Kirsten J , Bolt Sascha R , Meijers Judith MM , Dekker Natashe Lemos , Miyashita Mitsunori , Nakayama Takeo , van der Steen Jenny T
Published: April 2024

Background:

Advance care planning in dementia includes supporting the person and their family to consider important goals of care. International research reports the importance of psycho-social-spiritual aspects towards end of life.

Aim:

To develop a multidimensional international palliative care goals model in dementia for use in practice.

Design:

International Delphi study integrating consensus and evidence from a meta-qualitative study. The Delphi panel rated statements about the model on a 5-point agreement scale. The criteria for consensus were pre-specified.

Setting/participants:

Seventeen researchers from eight countries developed an initial model, and 169 candidate panellists were invited to the international online Delphi study.

Results:

Panellists (107; response 63.3%) resided in 33 countries. The model comprised four main care goals: (1) Comfort ensured; (2) Control over function maintained; (3) Identity protected and personhood respected and (4) Coping with grief and loss−person and caregiver supported. The model reflects how needs and care goals change over time with the progression of dementia, concluding with bereavement support. The first version of the model achieved a consensus after which it was slightly refined based on feedback. We did not achieve a consensus on adding a goal of life prolongation, and on use of the model by people with dementia and family themselves.

Conclusion:

A new palliative care goals model for people with dementia and their families includes relationship aspects for use by professionals and achieved a consensus among a panel with diverse cultural background. The position of life prolongation in relation to palliative care goals needs further research.
Complex bronchopleural fistulas: a case report
Authors: Cao Miaoying , Yi Jing , Bao Hongjie , Sun Jian , Chen Yefeng
Published: April 2024

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a potentially fatal complication and remains a surgical challenge. Concomitant problems, such as pulmonary infection and respiratory failure, are typically the main contributors to mortality from BPF because of improper contact between the bronchial and pleural cavity. We present the case of a 75-year-old male patient with a history of right upper lobe lung cancer resection who developed complex BPFs. Following appropriate antibiotic therapy and chest tube drainage, we treated the fistulas using endobronchial valve EBV placement and local argon gas spray stimulation. Bronchoscopic treatment is the preferred method for patients who cannot tolerate a second surgery because it can help to maximize their quality of life. Our treatment method may be a useful reference for treating complex BPF.
Deconstructing and resisting coastal displacement: A research agenda
Authors: Ounanian Kristen , Howells Matthew
Published: April 2024

Coastal communities have long been at the periphery of human geography. Nonetheless, the coasts present a rich context to understand and deconstruct processes of displacement—enclosure, ocean grabbing, gentrification, and financialization—and the salience of adjacency claims as resistance. While scholars have theorized that the coast’s spatial specificity may enable communities to raise adjacency claims, scholarship has not reconciled the degree to which coastal communities should benefit from marine resources and ocean spaces. This displacement-adjacency framework and research agenda provide a lens to study discourses, cases of contestation, and the potency of such protests of interrelated coastal displacement processes.