bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Versus Gray Initial Public Offerings: Ownership, Withdrawal, and Post-IPO Performance
Authors: Cleverley Freddie , Diaz-Rainey Ivan , Helbing Pia , Zhang Renzhu
Published: November 2024

Using a unique European dataset, we examine “green” (renewable energy) and “gray” (non-renewable energy) IPOs in terms of ownership characteristics, withdrawal probability, post-withdrawal survival, and post-IPO performance. We find greater private equity and venture capital involvement and higher levels of retained ownership for green IPOs. Gray firms prefer London’s AIM, known for lighter regulation. Green firms are less likely to withdraw in recent years, survive longer, and are less likely to be sold post-withdrawal. These results, indicating a positive market and “insider” sentiment toward green firms, suggest insiders of gray firms are more often motivated by “exit” desires. Initially, green IPOs underperform with more negative BHARs and lower alphas. However, over time, this underperformance decreases due to increased institutional ownership and a higher return “reward” for greater business risk.

JEL Classification: G24, G34, Q56
A diffusion kurtosis imaging study of the relationship between whole brain microstructure and cognitive function in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Matsumoto Nanae , Sugimoto Taiki , Yamashita Fumio , Mori Futoshi , Kuroda Yujiro , Fujita Kosuke , Uchida Kazuaki , Kishino Yoshinobu , Sasaki Makoto , Arai Hidenori , Sakurai Takashi
Published: November 2024

Background

The association of Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) with microstructure of individual regions across the entire brain remains unexplored.

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between cognitive function and the microstructure of each brain region in the gray matter using diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which is the transitional stage before the onset of dementia.

Material and Methods

DKI and MMSE were obtained for 34 older adults with MCI and 16 cognitively normal (CN) individuals aged 65–85 years. The DKI parameters were measured from 31 distinct regions of interest in the gray matter. A multiple regression analysis was used to examine the association between DKI parameters and MMSE scores; subsequently, interactions between the DKI parameters and the groups (MCI and CN) were examined.

Results

The mean (±SD) MMSE score for the MCI group was 27.67 ± 1.90. Significant positive correlations were observed between MMSE score and mean kurtosis (MK) in the superior frontal, middle frontal, inferior frontal, precentral, postcentral, angular, middle temporal, and inferior occipital gyri, and superior parietal lobe for the MCI group. In addition, the interaction term of the MK in the middle frontal, precentral, postcentral, and angular gyri, and the groups was statistically significant.

Conclusion

Older adults with MCI may exhibit histological damage in certain regions of the brain, such as the middle frontal and angular gyri, as observed in this study. The findings could provide insights into understanding the pathophysiology of cognitive decline in this population group.
Impact of individually tailored contrast medium on vascular attenuation in chest CT: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Henning Mette Karen , Aaløkken Trond Mogens , Martinsen Anne Catrine , Pripp Are Hugo , Johansen Safora
Published: November 2024

Background

Individually tailored contrast medium (CM) may improve vascular image quality in chest computed tomography (CT).

Purpose

To evaluate vascular attenuation in chest CT by comparing CM dose calculations using lean body mass (LBM) and body surface area (BSA) with a fixed-dose protocol.

Material and Methods

Patients referred for contrast-enhanced chest CT were categorized as either normal, muscular, or overweight. Patients were accordingly randomized into three CM dosing protocols: fixed-dose group (n = 87), LBM group (n = 92), and BSA group (n = 93).

Results

Of the patients, 94% in the fixed-dose group, 99% in the LBM group, and 98% in the BSA group achieved optimal vascular attenuation. In the overweight category, lower attenuation was demonstrated in the fixed-dose group compared to the LBM group ( P = 0.032) and the BSA group ( P = 0.010). In the fixed-dose group, vascular attenuation showed a negative correlation with total body weight for all body composition categories. In the LBM group, a positive correlation was observed between attenuation and total body weight in the muscular category ( P = 0.041), while a negative correlation was noted for the overweight category in the BSA group ( P = 0.049).

Conclusion

Fixed-dose CM protocol exhibited larger variations in vascular attenuation between patients of various body weights and body compositions compared to tailored CM doses based on LBM and BSA.
Research on Tunnel Structure Vibration and Its Surrounding Vibration Based on Pipe-in-Pipe Theory in Full Space
Authors: Wang Nan , Shen Xiaoqin , Ren Dawei , Cao Xiaoshan
Published: November 2024

In this work, the dispersion characteristic equation of cylindrical tunnels in elastic saturated soil is established. We use the pipe-in-pipe model as a frame to model the tunnel lining as a cylindrical shell and the surrounding soil as a saturated porous medium. Based on the Stokes–Helmholtz vector decomposition theorem, the Biot wave equation is successfully decoupled, and parametric analytic expressions of the displacement field and stress field are obtained. Finally, we apply boundary conditions at the interface to determine the dispersion characteristic equation, which controls the tunnel vibration. The effects of tunnel length, wall thickness, and radius on natural vibration frequency are discussed with numerical examples, and the results are compared with those obtained using elastic relations. Finally, the maximum vibration damage of a tunnel lining structure and the surrounding soil under a harmonic load is determined by using a stable natural frequency; this provides a reference for environmental protection.
Travel Behavior and Transportation Emissions in Sustainable Communities: The Case of The Sustainable City in Dubai
Authors: Kothawala Alimurtaza , Circella Giovanni , Alemi Farzad , Abou-Zeid Maya , Rogmans Tim , El-Jisr Karim
Published: November 2024

Sustainable communities are increasing in the Middle East and incorporate sustainable design elements like water reuse, urban farming, and green building design to economize resource consumption and keep greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions low. Sustainable transportation is perhaps the most challenging element to implement; it must be tailored to the location, size of the development, demographics, and prevalent culture. The literature on the sustainability and effectiveness of transportation aspects of sustainable communities in the Persian Gulf region is limited. To study these aspects in The Sustainable City (TSC), a 46-hectare mixed-use development housing 3,000 people near Dubai, we surveyed city residents and employees on their current travel behaviors and assessed how they respond to the availability of alternative mobility options. We found that, although residents want to live sustainably and actively attempt to do so, their transportation is sustainable only within the city's boundaries. For external trips, less sustainable options such as long-distance air travel, regular commuting to/from Dubai, and even short trips to neighboring communities drive up total transportation emissions. Residents are interested in shared mobility options, and an electric carsharing service could help reduce some travel impacts. However, the suburban setting of the development, fewer alternative mobility options currently available for trips to and from other locations in Dubai, a strong car culture, the lack of connectivity and integration challenges with neighboring communities, and the existing land-use patterns are major barriers to choosing sustainable transportation options.
A Novel Description of Medial Meniscus Vascularization: A Multicenter Study Introducing the “Medial Meniscal Artery”
Authors: Śmigielski Robert , Azua Eric , Gursoy Safa , Khan Zeeshan A. , Mameri Enzo S. , Ciszkowska-Łysoń Beata , Ciszek Bogdan , Hevesi Mario , Piękoś Jakub , Zielińska Aleksandra , Zarins Bertram , Chahla Jorge
Published: November 2024

Background:

The microvasculature of the human meniscus has been previously described by Arnoczky and Warren. However, to date, the qualitative and quantitative extra-articular vascular anatomy of the medial meniscus has not been characterized.

Purposes:

To perform a qualitative and quantitative anatomic study of the extra-articular medial meniscal vasculature and to introduce the novel “medial meniscal artery” (MMA), potentially providing future guidelines for the treatment of meniscal abnormalities.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 33 unpaired, frozen human cadaveric knees were dissected. The femoral artery was identified and cannulated using an angiocatheter. The arteries were perfused with a red acrylic paint solution, allowing for improved visualization. Artery dimensions and distances were measured using a digital caliper. Perfused specimens were imaged using computed tomography and segmented using 3D reconstruction software to identify vessels and repeat artery measurements digitally.

Results:

The MMA was consistently identified in all specimens. In 27 (82%) of 33 specimens, the MMA branched directly from the popliteal artery; in 5 (15%), the MMA shared a common trunk with the inferior medial genicular artery; and in 1 specimen (3%), the MMA shared a common branch with the inferior lateral genicular artery. The MMA was easily distinguishable from the superior, inferior, and middle genicular arteries, given its direct course to the medial joint line with terminal branches to the posterior horn of the medial meniscus and deep to the semimembranosus tendon. The MMA exhibited a consistently smaller vessel diameter relative to the genicular arteries.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to identify and quantitatively describe the MMA in the human knee. The MMA can be identified consistently on gross anatomic dissection in cadaveric donors of varying demographics. Further research is needed to identify and characterize the artery in vivo and to determine the MMA’s role in meniscus preservation surgery.

Clinical Relevance:

The findings of this study will provide future avenues of research toward understanding medial meniscus vascularization and the genesis of potential degenerative changes when vascularization is poor. This will help to further refine diagnostic and treatment options for meniscus revascularization and compartment preservation. Additionally, this study may help define safe zones in the knee during posterior approaches and expand the base of knowledge for emerging vascular procedures such as genicular artery embolization.
Loneliness Among Older Caregivers: An Analysis of the 2020 California Health Interview Survey
Authors: Chen Xiayu S. , Lydon Elizabeth A. , Mathias Vincent F. , Rogers Wendy A. , Mudar Raksha A. , Raj Minakshi
Published: November 2024

Aging and caregiving are each risk factors for loneliness, but little is known about loneliness among older caregivers. Using the 2020 California Health Interview Survey ( N = 7638), this study examined the relationship between (1) caregiving status and loneliness among older adults; (2) sociodemographic, technology, health, and caregiving characteristics and loneliness among older caregivers; and (3) compared how these variables relate to loneliness among older caregivers of persons with dementia versus non-dementia conditions. Findings revealed that 15% of older caregivers experienced loneliness, with dementia caregiving significantly increasing this likelihood. Immigrant caregivers, frequent internet users, and those with poorer self-reported health were at higher risk of experiencing loneliness. Future interventions, such as online social programs that foster social engagement, must be thoughtfully designed to align with the unique situations of older caregivers.
Intertwined Development of Adolescents’ Interest Pursuits
Authors: Draijer Jael , Bronkhorst Larike , Akkerman Sanne
Published: November 2024

While interest theories have long focused on describing the development of a single interest, research increasingly recognizes the multiplicity of interests. Adolescents are likely to relate their multiple interest pursuits to each other, and the development of these interest pursuits may become intertwined. The current study explored this intertwined development of interest pursuits in daily life through repeated interviews with thirty Dutch adolescents (aged 14–25 years). Each adolescent was interviewed three times over 3 years. They were asked about the (changes in) interest pursuits that they previously reported through an Experience Sampling Method smartphone application, which they had filled in multiple times a day for a whole week, for a total of 9 weeks throughout the 3 years. Inductive analysis of the interviews revealed three processes of intertwined development: interest genesis, where one interest developed out of another, hybrid interest engagement, where interests co-occur or their engagement is mediated by similar skills or knowledge, and combined sensemaking, where two interests have a similar meaning or gain meaning in relation to each other. Interest theory typically speaks of interest development as a process of deepening of a single interest, and the current study illustrates how interest development can in addition reflect the broadening and connecting of multiple interests.
A Systematic Literature Review of the Relationships Between Social and Interpersonal Factors and Physical Activity Among Older Adults
Authors: Park Jeong-Hui , Prochnow Tyler , Vigil Jacqueline A. , Smith Matthew Lee
Published: November 2024

Objective

This systematic literature review’s purpose was to examine the social factors (e.g., social network, social support, social interaction, loneliness, and social environmental factors) associated with PA among older adults.

Data Source

Electronic databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science) were used in this study.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

Studies published in English focusing on individuals aged 65+ that assess social and intrapersonal factors influencing PA, with quantitative data on these relationships, were included, regardless of the PA measurement method.

Data Extraction

Two independent reviewers extracted data using a standardized form, capturing study design, sample size, participant characteristics, social factors assessed, and their relationship to PA behavior.

Data Synthesis

A descriptive summary of study characteristics and methodological quality was conducted.

Results

1560 articles were identified and 34 were included. Wider social networks, social support, social cohesion, social norms towards PA, and positive social interactions were positively associated with PA among older adults, whereas obstructive factors (e.g., loneliness and social isolation) of the social environment were negatively associated with PA.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that the social environment plays a strong role in determining PA levels among older adults. Interventions targeting PA enhancement in this population should prioritize strengthening social support and networks related to PA. Future research should focus on elucidating the mechanisms through which social factors impact PA in older adults.
A systematic review of energy storing dynamic response foot for prosthetic rehabilitation
Authors: Sahoo Swapna , Mohanty Rajesh Kumar , Mohapatra Aswini Kumar
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this paper is to undertake a systematic review on various mechanical design considerations, simulation and optimization techniques as well as the clinical applications of energy storing and return (ESAR) prosthetic feet used in amputee rehabilitation. Methodological databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and SCOPUS were searched till July 2022, and the retrieved records were evaluated for relevance. The design, mechanism, materials used, mechanical and simulation techniques and clinical applications of ESAR foot used in developed and developing nations were reviewed. 61 articles met the inclusion criteria out of total 577 studies. A wide variety of design matrices for energy- storing feet was found, but the clinical relevance of its design parameters is uncommon. Definitive factors on technical and clinical characteristics were derived and included in the summary tables. To modify existing foot failure mechanisms, material selection and multiple experiments must be improved. Gait analysis and International Organization for Standardization (ISO) mechanical testing standards of energy-storing feet were the methods for integrating clinical experimentation with numerical results. To meet technological requirements, various frameworks simulate finite element models of the energy-storing foot, whereas clinical investigations involving gait analysis require proper insight. Analysis of structural behavior under varying loads and its effect on studies of functional gait are limited. For optimal functional performance, durability and affordability, more research and technological advancements are required to characterize materials and standardize prosthetic foot protocols.
Cortical bone fracture analysis including the combined influence of osteon orientations, applied load and crack lengths: A numerical investigation
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Pathak Himanshu , Ghosh Rajesh
Published: November 2024

Similar to how fiber orientation affects composite materials, osteon orientation affects the elasticity and fracture behavior of cortical bone. The objective of this work is to predict the combined effect of orientations of the osteon, applied load, and various crack lengths on the fracture characteristics of cortical bone. Orthotropic modeling and analyses of cortical bone were carried out using the linear-elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) based extended finite element method (XFEM). Five values of applied mode-I and mode-II load, five distinct crack lengths, and seven angular osteon orientations were taken into consideration to predict the change in SIF. In this work, the 2-D plane stress assumption with a straight-edge crack was taken into consideration. It was found that the values of SIF significantly increased when the load (15–35 MPa) and fracture length (1.8–2.2 mm) increased. SIF ( KI) values under mode-I loading were discovered to be substantially lower than SIF ( KI and KII) values under mode-II loading. Results of this study showed that osteon orientations with different crack lengths and applied loads had a significant impact on cortical bone fracture characteristics. Only the crack’s opening was discovered to be caused by mode-I loading; however, both the opening and shearing of the crack were found to be caused by mode-II loading. Despite differences in applied loads, crack lengths, and osteon orientations, the values of the SIF predicted in this work (under mode-I loading) using LEFM-based XFEM exhibited good agreement with the prior published experimental and numerical data.
A new phase for Theory & Psychology
Authors: O’Doherty Kieran C.
Published: November 2024

In this short editorial, I announce the conclusion of my term as editor of Theory & Psychology. I reflect on the last eight years of the journal, and express my hopes for the future.
Spatial policy since the global financial crisis
Authors: MacKinnon Danny , Kinossian Nadir , Pike Andy , Béal Vincent , Lang Thilo , Rousseau Max , Tomaney John
Published: November 2024

Renewed political concern about geographical inequalities in the wake of the global financial crisis of 2008 raises questions about the ability of the prevalent pre-crisis model of development to generate more spatially balanced and inclusive economies. In this article, we connect spatial polarisation and the ‘geography of discontent’ to the extended crisis of neoliberal capitalism after the 2008 crisis. The article provides a conjunctural analysis of spatial policy since the crash, viewing this period as one of economic stagnation, instability and turbulence. It interprets recent reorientations of spatial policy involving the adoption of new strategies for ‘left-behind places’ as part of an ongoing process of regulatory experimentation seeking to address discontent and spatial polarisation as symptoms of the legitimacy crisis of late neoliberalism. Thus far, we argue, such policies tend to treat the symptoms of ‘left-behindness’, rather than addressing the wider structural causes of decline and marginalisation, meaning that they are unlikely to reduce spatial inequalities and assuage discontent.
Examining the Evolution of Workplace Spirituality: A Bibliometric Approach
Authors: Munjal Nancy , Sachdeva Geeta
Published: November 2024

Workplace spirituality has emerged as a remarkable area of study in the field of management and organizational behaviour over the past two decades. Researchers have extensively explored its impact on employee engagement, job satisfaction, organizational citizenship behaviour and performance. The present study employs bibliometric analysis to examine the existing literature on workplace spirituality. It analyses 400 relevant articles from the Scopus and Web of Science databases from 2003 to 2023. The research identifies influential authors, pertinent journals and key trends using two analytical tools, that is, the R package and VOSviewer. It creates network diagrams and cluster visualizations representing connections and relationships among the authors and keywords. The findings reveal consistent publication growth, highlighting influential articles and key contributors. The study emphasizes the need for more empirical research on individual and organizational outcomes concerning workplace spirituality. It suggests incorporating diverse methodologies, such as qualitative and mixed-method approaches, to enhance understanding. The insights provided serve as valuable information for academics, professionals and organizational leaders, offering a comprehensive understanding of spirituality in the workplace and promoting the overall well-being of employees.
Responsible Leadership: A Competency-Based Approach Towards Management of Paradoxes and Garnering Stakeholder’s Trust
Authors: Sargam Sadhna , Pandey Ashish
Published: November 2024

Research on responsible leadership (RL) conceived it as a normative, deliberative and consensus-based approach without offering insights into how responsible leaders deal with the challenges occurring in natural settings that preclude an orderly effort or require immediate responses. With the aim of filling this gap, this study positions RL as the competency to deal with complex, uncertain and paradoxical challenges in business and stakeholder relationships. In this vein, we adopted a narrative reasoning method; integrated the literature on expertise, mindfulness, organizational climate and trust; and built a conceptual model. This study offers insights into how the expertise of leaders becomes indispensable in sensemaking and framing the ill-defined paradoxical challenges involving various stakes, and how the presence of a holistic values climate facilitates a conducive ground to execute competing stakeholders’ goals. This study also explicates the critical role of mindfulness in offsetting the limitations associated with these factors, which consequently assist responsible leaders in catering to the salient needs of stakeholders to gain their acceptance and trust.
A Study of Measurable Parameters of Sustainability Practices inRural Built Environment: An Indian Perspective
Authors: Manjrekar Shraddha Mahore , Sharma Pallavi , Keskar Poorva , Jain Jyoti Tholiya
Published: November 2024

The built environment is a reflection of the culture and civilisation of the area and provides opportunities for sustainable development. The people’s practices, the government policies and the historical/natural context of the area all together affect the form of the built environment in that area. The villages represent the traditional way of building and settlement planning. The traditional wisdom of these practices that contributes towards sustainable development is well recognised under various parameters like climate responsiveness, sustainable building materials, occupant’s comfort, sociocultural character and so on. In spite of existence of the knowledge, good practices and government policies, the question arises that whether the present practices are contributing towards sustainability or not! This article attempts to list the parameters that can measure the sustainability aspects of the present practices of the built environment. The multiple criteria of the built environment contributing towards sustainable development have been weighed by analytical hierarchical process (AHP). The current research provides a measuring tool to assess people’s awareness and practices regarding the sustainability of rural areas. If applied to the group of several villages in the region, this tool will help to identify the need for research and further development to make the areas sustainable.
Amelioration of Neuronal Deficits in Aged Rats Via Ganoderma lucidum Extract Alone and Combination with Alpha Lipoic Acid
Authors: Kumar Harish , Bansal Seema , Chaudhary Rishabh , Sharma Sheenam , Gupta Sumeet , Choudhary Sunayna
Published: November 2024

Background

Ageing is associated with progressive neuronal deficits, leading to cognitive decline and increased vulnerability to neurodegenerative diseases. Currently, there is no permanent treatment available which can cure ageing and associated neuronal deficits.

Objectives

The purpose of this investigation was to examine the neuroprotective effects of Ganoderma lucidum extract (GLE), both alone and in combination with alpha lipoic acid (ALA), on age-related neuronal deficits in old rats.

Materials and Methods

Eight groups of rats were used in this investigation. GLE and ALA were administered alone and in combination for 90 days orally. After 90 days, various physiological, behavioural, oxidative stress and histopathological parameters were assessed.

Results

Treatment with GLE and ALA significantly and dose-dependently modulates the neuronal deficits of aged rats. GLE 100 with ALA 50 showed synergistic effects on aged rats.

Conclusion

New recent data supports the benefits of GLE for cognitive deficits in aged rats.
Counting women: Indicator culture and gender inclusion in sports leadership
Authors: Morgan Tate , Henne Kathryn , Blacklock Jude , Starre Kate
Published: November 2024

Despite the increasing visibility of women's sports in Australia, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions within sports organisations. Many sporting organisations have responded by developing strategies to improve the gender balance of their leadership, often focusing on quantifying the number of women in leadership roles. We examine this ‘counting women’ paradigm as an example of what anthropologist Sally Engle Merry has described as ‘indicator culture’, arguing that this paradigm constrains what can be known about gendered inequities and thus how they are addressed. This paradigm, with its emphasis on the number of individual women and ratios of men to women, extracts women as though they do not exist within highly gendered workplaces. Drawing on three case studies, we illustrate three thematic shortcomings that emerge from this approach, which fails to meaningfully attend to intersectionality; capture the gendered dynamics of the roles occupied by women in sports leadership; and document the experiences of women in sports organisations. We discuss how the counting women paradigm contributes to forms of ‘non-knowledge’ about women in sports organisations, flattening the ability to understand and address barriers to women's inclusion in sports leadership.
Development and validation of a Comprehensive Level-Based Framework for Neurogenic communication disorders (CLFN)
Authors: Subudhi Nikita M , Anil Malavika Anakkathil , Mohan Megha , Bhat Jayashree S
Published: November 2024

Background

Acquired neurogenic communication disorders are neurological disorders’ most commonly observed consequences. Profiling communication characteristics are a sensitive indicator in the tertiary centre that helps individualised management strategy to improve the quality of life in individuals with neurogenic communication disorders.

Objective

The research aimed to develop and validate a Comprehensive Level-based Framework for Neurogenic communication disorders (CLFN) by profiling the communication characteristics of individuals with acquired neurogenic communication disorders in a tertiary care centre.

Methods

The research followed a cross-sectional design and used a convenient sampling process for sample collection. A total of 76 participants were recruited for the research based on selection criteria. The initial administration of CLFN was documented as pre-levels for each domain for all the participants. A re-administration of CLFN was performed after 10 sessions over 7 days of intervention which was documented as post-levels.

Results

A greater proportion of participants were from the middle-aged group than in the older age group, and males were observed to have a higher frequency occurrence of neurogenic communication disorders than females. Pairwise comparison between pre-levels and post-levels was statistically significant for speech intelligibility, cognitive-communication orientation, cognitive-communication memory, cognitive-communication executive function, communication, spoken language expression, spoken language comprehension, repetition, naming, and writing domains.

Conclusions

The CLFN for Neurogenic communication disorders can serve as a reference for the holistic assessment of individuals with neurogenic communication disorders in a tertiary care centre. This will monitor the progress evaluation and plan the intervention program before the manifestation of any significant neurogenic impairment, which would improve individuals’ quality of life.
Genetic Variability of IRF6 Polymorphisms in Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip/Palate: A Meta-Analysis Across Diverse Populations
Authors: Muruganantham Jethendra Kumar , Veerabathiran Ramakrishnan
Published: November 2024

Common congenital malformations known as orofacial clefts include cleft lip, cleft lip and palate, and cleft palate. They present significant public health challenges globally due to their medical, psychological, and socioeconomic impacts. Genetic and environmental factors mostly influence the genesis of nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate.

A meta-analysis was carried out to evaluate the association between IRF6 polymorphisms (rs2235371, rs2235373, and rs2235375) and NSCL/P. PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Embase were systematically searched for relevant articles. Studies meeting predefined inclusion criteria included case-control designs, genotype data, and statistical measures (odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals). Seventeen research papers were chosen based on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale criteria for worth evaluation.

The meta-analysis included 1809 NSCL/P cases and 3164 controls from diverse populations, including Chinese Han, Brazilian, South Indian, Northeast Chinese, Uyghur, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Mesoamerican, and Iranian groups. However, in our analysis, only specific IRF6 SNPs—rs2235371 and rs2235373—showed significant associations in the allelic and dominant models, respectively, while other SNPs, including rs2235375, showed no significant association. These findings underscore the genetic heterogeneity of NSCL/P across various ethnic groups.

This meta-analysis emphasizes the complex role of IRF6 polymorphisms in the genetic susceptibility to NSCL/P. While significant associations were identified in several populations, the lack of association in others suggests that genetic factors contributing to NSCL/P vary widely. Further research is needed to elucidate additional genetic determinants and their interfaces with environmental factors in the pathogenesis of NSCL/P.
The Importance of Connection and Identity: A Review of Geographies of Kinship
Authors: Popham Jessica
Published: November 2024

Adult adoptees are often impacted by their adoption. Impacts can be related to grief and loss and stigma. International adoptees have an added layer of impact due to the loss of culture and identity of their birth country. This article reviews the documentary, Geographies of Kinship, which follows four Korean adult adoptees' stories and provides a history of international adoption in Korea. A brief review of the documentary is provided followed by the identification of adoption-related themes in the documentary such as curiosity, identity, and reconnection. Implications for mental health workers who provide services to adult adoptees are discussed such as using a both/and perspective and providing support when adoptees search for answers. The use of this film for cinetherapy is also discussed.
Innovative approach to mitigating vibration and noise in an external rotor permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Xu Zhuo , Shi Dashuai , Gu Dawei , Liu Zhengqing , Chen Guinan , Hu Changcheng , Sun Xianchao , Sun Pengyao , Zhu Bingbin
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the external rotor permanent magnet synchronous motor with fractional slot concentrated windings. A comprehensive multi-physics model is utilized to analyze electromagnetic force behaviors on permanent magnets induced by sinusoidal currents. The impact of cogging torque on motor performance and electromagnetic noise from the side cover is examined through finite element simulation. An analytical model is developed to account for slotting and pole-slot interaction effects, providing insights into the spatial distribution and frequency characteristics of electromagnetic forces on permanent magnets. An energy-centric approach is used to evaluate cogging torque and its influencing factors. The non-uniform distribution of electromagnetic forces on permanent magnets is considered, and electromagnetic nodal forces are integrated into the structural model. The radial vibration acceleration of the rotor’s external surface is computed using the Modal Superposition Method, while the Acoustic Boundary Element Method is employed to predict the acoustic radiation from the side cover and the pressure distribution in the external air domain. Simulation results show that slotting-induced electromagnetic forces significantly contribute to motor noise. Optimization of slot width reduces electromagnetic forces at modal frequencies, decreases cogging torque, and lowers overall sound pressure level, improving motor vibration and noise reduction capabilities while enhancing operational performance.
The Incel Subculture: Drifting In and Out
Authors: Andersen Jan Christoffer
Published: November 2024

Debates are ongoing about the harm misogynistic online communities pose to young men’s identity and understanding of masculinities. This study aims to nuance our understanding of the online incel community by analysing 14 interviews with young men from five different continents who identify or formerly identified as incel or involuntary celibate. I use a subcultural theoretical framework, and my analysis identifies three forms of subcultural involvement of incels, varying from being all-encompassing, active participation and loose attachment. Drawing on the concept of digital drift, including insights from both traditional and post-subcultural traditions, I show how incels can flexibly drift across categories, changing their level of involvement and attachment to the incel subculture over time. The article highlights the need for more direct, critical engagement with young men involved in the incel subculture to account for the various ways these young men interact with this online phenomenon.
Surrogate representation by parties: A cross-national perspective
Authors: Lavi Liron , Harsgor Liran
Published: November 2024

Against the backdrop of declining public trust and engagement with political parties, citizens’ representation is often not limited to their party of choice. How do citizens perceive representation by parties they did not vote for? How do individual- and system-level factors shape this representation? And what are the implications for citizens’ democratic attitudes? Investigating these questions, we propose the concept of party surrogation – representation by a party one did not vote for. We utilize CSES module 3 (2006–2011) to establish cross-national and individual variations in party surrogation. We find more party surrogation in countries with a higher effective number of parties and less party surrogation among right-wing voters. We also find that voters with party surrogation have combinations of representing parties that vary in size, political ideology, and coalition status. These voters are more satisfied with democracy compared to unrepresented voters. We conclude with a discussion of citizens’ representation repertoire.
‘It’s that camaraderie’: Experiences of a Long-COVID peer support group for staff working in health, social care and emergency services
Authors: Somerton Amy , Jeffrey Holly
Published: November 2024

Health, social care and emergency services staff, continue to feel the impact of Long-COVID. Using quantitative and qualitative methods, this study aims to evaluate the experience of UK health and social care staff who participated in a virtual Long-COVID peer support group between May 2021 and May 2023. The outcome measures (SWEMWBS and PHQ9) show an improvement in post-group scores, suggesting participation in the peer support group is linked to improved wellbeing. Thematic analysis identified five key themes: finding connectedness, reciprocity, effective facilitation, filling the gaps and virtual format. This evaluation shows how peer support groups provided space for reciprocity and the positive outcomes associated with this. This evaluation highlights the importance of co-produced, needs-based services providing Long-COVID peer support.
Maintaining a sense of normality with the help of others: Lived experiences of facilitators and barriers to Lupus adjustment
Authors: Silva-Ribeiro Sofia , Bernardes Sónia F , Marques Marta M , Godinho Cristina A
Published: November 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has a high detrimental impact on individuals’ quality of life. Identifying key factors associated with SLE adjustment is crucial for intervention development, yet there is no previous research exploring the perspectives of individuals with SLE regarding illness adjustment’ facilitating or hindering factors. In this qualitative study, 16 individual semi-structured interviews with Portuguese adults with SLE (13 women) were conducted to explore perceived facilitators and barriers to illness adjustment. A reflexive thematic analysis revealed that efforts toward maintaining a normal life, optimism, keeping engaged in meaningful activities, accessing reliable illness-related information, and having supportive relationships were core facilitators of SLE adjustment. Main barriers included inability to maintain normality, engaging in excessive activity, pessimism, being unsupported or stigmatized, and not having access to reliable illness-related information. These findings unveil potential targets for psychosocial and behavioral interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of life for individuals with SLE.
Understanding the public’s decision-making about seasonal flu vaccination during a pandemic: Application of the precaution adoption process model
Authors: Meyer Carly , Antonopoulou Vivi , Goffe Louis , Grimani Aikaterini , Graham Fiona , Lecouturier Jan , Tang Mei Yee , Chadwick Paul , Sniehotta Falko F
Published: November 2024

Understanding the behavioural factors influencing flu vaccination is crucial for mitigating seasonal infection outbreaks. This study utilised the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM) to examine the public’s decision-making about seasonal flu vaccination through an online cross-sectional survey with 2004 participants in England, UK. Results showed varying stages of decision-making: 7% in Stage 2 (unengaged), 10% in Stage 3 (undecided), 7% in Stage 4 (decided not to vaccinate), 39% in Stage 5 (decided to vaccinate) and 38% in Stage 6 (vaccinated). Regression modelling revealed factors common across stages and unique to certain stages, such as flu vaccination history distinguishing those who received the vaccine. Vaccine knowledge (Stage 2), perceived benefits (Stage 4), perceived control and fear of needles (Stage 5) were uniquely associated with specific PAPM stages. The study discusses policy implications for integrating these findings to improve flu vaccination uptake, highlighting the importance of tailored strategies based on decision-making stages.
Rethinking postcolonial sociology
Authors: Steinmetz George
Published: November 2024

Gregor McLennan sees my book as inaugurating a new phase of “multiplex” postcolonial sociology. This approach moves away from sweeping generalizations about Eurocentrism, Manicheaism, complicity, and pervasive coloniality in “Western” sociology. It pays closer attention to sociology’s internal heterogeneity and is less distrustful of scientific norms such as validity, objectivity, evidence, autonomy, scientific neutrality, and explanation. More specifically, my approach relies (1) on the idea of “context” from the classic sociology of knowledge and intellectual history; (2) on the concept of “field” from Bourdieu; (3) on methods of “close reading” and textual interpretation from literary criticism; and (4) on the “historians’ craft” (Bloch) of using the most extensive available archive of published and unpublished sources. I argue that we can evaluate historical thinkers in their contexts, assessing the constraints and spaces of possibility they faced, and then examine their intellectual choices, the moves they make in the social scientific game. This approach aligns more closely with the ideas of the founders of postcolonial theory, who were more interested in texts that “brush up unstintingly against historical constraints” rather than those that are “inertly of their time” (Edward Said). McLennan agrees that postcolonial sociology is indebted to European Enlightenment traditions; I focus on its roots in the sociology of knowledge and sociological historicism. The article then responds to McLennan’s main “probes.” The first concerns the methodological problem of “labeling investigations as ʽsociologyʼ and specific people as ʽsociologistsʼ”, and the limits of field theory. The second concerns my “outline of a theory of colonial sociological practice,” which tries to understand the dilemmas facing sociologists in colonial situations and the historians who study them. The third probe addresses the question of the scientific exploitation of empire. The sociologists I emphasize did not approach the colonized as a pool of resources to be extracted and exploited but worked across the colonial boundary line to generate knowledge. Although the book focuses on the mid-20th century, I return in my comments to Durkheim, upon whose shoulders so much of the later work was standing. The key is that Durkheim was also a theorist of empire and colonialism and politically an anticolonialist. He described colonies as anomic spaces and rejected biological concepts and hierarchical notions of civilization. He rejected universalistic values while advocating a system of states governed by historically specific morality and law rather than violence. Finally, Durkheim reversed the “imperial gaze,” directing it back at Europe.
Design and In Vivo Testing of an Anatomic 3D-Printed Peripheral Nerve Conduit in a Rat Sciatic Nerve Model
Authors: Chang Peter S. , Lee Tony Y. , Kneiber David , Dy Christopher J. , Ward Patrick M. , Kazarian Gregory S. , Apostolakos John , Brogan David M.
Published: November 2024

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printer technology has seen a surge in use in medicine, particularly in orthopedics. A recent area of research is its use in peripheral nerve repair, which often requires a graft or conduit to bridge segmental defects. Currently, nerve gaps are bridged using autografts, allografts, or synthetic conduits. Purpose: We sought to improve upon the current design of simple hollow, cylindrical conduits that often result in poor nerve regeneration. Previous attempts were made at reducing axonal dispersion with the use of multichanneled conduits. To our knowledge, none has attempted to mimic and test the anatomical topography of the nerve. Methods: Using serial histology sections, 3D reconstruction software, and computer-aided design, a scaffold was created based on the fascicular topography of a rat sciatic nerve. A 3D printer produced both cylindrical conduits and topography-based scaffolds. These were implanted in 12 Lewis rats: 6 rats with the topographical scaffold and 6 rats with the cylindrical conduit. Each rodent’s uninjured contralateral limb was used as a control for comparison of functional and histologic outcomes. Walking track analysis was performed, and the Sciatic Functional Index (SFI) was calculated with the Image J software. After 6 weeks, rats were sacrificed and analyses performed on the regenerated nerve tissue. Primary outcomes measured included nerve (fiber) density, nerve fiber width, total number of nerve fibers, G-ratio (ratio of axon width to total fiber width), and percent debris. Secondary outcomes measured included electrophysiology studies of electromyography (EMG) latency and EMG amplitude and isometric force output by the gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior. Results: There were no differences observed between the cylindrical conduit and topographical scaffold in terms of histological outcomes, muscle force, EMG, or SFI. Conclusion: This study of regeneration of the sciatic nerve in a rat model suggests the feasibility of 3D-printed topographical scaffolds. More research is required to quantify the functional outcomes of this technology for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Mental Health Stigma Reduction Interventions Among Men: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sweeney Jack , O’Donnell Shane , Roche Emilie , White P. J. , Carroll Paula , Richardson Noel
Published: November 2024

Stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among men, remains a significant barrier to men engaging with support services for their mental health. Despite increasing evidence of interventions targeting different aspects of stigma reduction, there is a notable gap in the literature concerning male-specific mental health stigma reduction interventions and on the underlying behavior change techniques (BCTs) used to reduce stigma. The purpose of this review is to synthesize the evidence relating to the impact of mental health stigma reduction interventions among men and to explore the underlying BCTs associated with each intervention. The review was restricted to empirical research reporting on interventions targeting mental health stigma in male-dominated populations. The quality appraisal was conducted using the Mixed Methods Analysis Tool and a narrative synthesis was conducted. Fourteen articles reporting on 11 interventions were included for review, while 20 outcome measures were used. Perceived public stigma attracted the largest number of interventions with a lesser focus on self or personal stigma. Nineteen BCTs were identified across the interventions with information about health consequences and self-monitoring of behavior being the most common followed by credible source, social contact, and behavior practice/rehearsal. This is discussed in relation to the wider literature. The methodological issues highlighted in the articles limit the conclusions and recommendations that can be drawn from the review. Recommendations for further research include standardizing the scales used in stigma measurement, in-depth reporting of intervention descriptions, and greater use of theory to guide intervention development.