bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between digital economy and industrial green innovation efficiency – based on the perspective of external knowledge sources
Authors: Liao Ganli , Hou Xinshuai , Li Yi , Wang Jingyu
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Driven by the development of the global digital economy, knowledge management in industrial enterprises offers more possibilities for green innovation. Based on the perspective of external knowledge sources, this study aims to construct a panel regression model to explore the relationship between digital economy and industrial green innovation efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel data from 30 regions in China from 2011 to 2020 were selected as research samples. All data are obtained from national and provincial statistical yearbooks. Coupling coordination degree analysis, entropy method, panel regression analysis, robustness test and threshold effect test by Stata 16.0 were used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The empirical results demonstrate the hypotheses and reveal the following findings: the digital economy is positively related to industrial green innovation efficiency and external knowledge sources, and external knowledge sources mediate the relationship between them. Moreover, based on the threshold test results, the digital economy has a double-threshold effect on industrial green innovation efficiency.

Originality/value

Based on the perspective of external knowledge sources, the proposed mediating mechanism between the digital economy and industrial green innovation efficiency has not been established previously, further enriching the research on the antecedents and outcomes of external knowledge sources. Moreover, this study estimated the direct influence mechanism and double-threshold effect of the digital economy on industrial green innovation efficiency from theoretical and empirical analysis, thus responding to the call of scholars and adding to existing research on how the digital economy affects the green transformation of industrial enterprises.
Race, local context, and traffic stops: an examination of racial profiling in traffic stops in rural and non-rural places
Authors: Iwama Janice
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The current study examines the effects of race, agency and environment on traffic stops in rural and non-rural spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

Using traffic stop data collected in a Midwest US County from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021, the current study uses logistic regression to examine racial disparities in traffic stops.

Findings

The results indicate that police decision-making in traffic stops may be influenced by other factors besides a driver’s race or ethnicity. In other words, the police officer’s decision making in a traffic stop varies between small and large agencies as well as rural and non-rural places.

Originality/value

This study provides one of the few examinations of racial disparities in traffic stops in rural places.
Soft TQM for competitive advantage in the transportation sector: investigating green human resource management and stakeholder integration
Authors: Karakasnaki Maria , Gerou Anastasia
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Recent trends in total quality management (TQM) argue in favor of incorporating environmental concerns into TQM and considering external stakeholders. The aim of this study is to bring environmental consciousness in the soft TQM dimension of human resource management (HRM) and assess its interrelationship with stakeholder integration towards achieving a competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study was conducted in the transportation sector, specifically targeting managers in Greek shipping companies involved in global cargo transport and vessel operations. A structured questionnaire was administered, yielding 109 responses. The collected data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings reveal the positive effect of both green HRM (GHRM) and stakeholder integration on the innovation differentiation advantage and market differentiation advantage of shipping companies. Results confirm the complementary (partial) mediating effect of GHRM in the relationship between stakeholder integration and both types of competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitation resides in data collection exclusively from shipping companies in Greece. A longitudinal approach would be beneficial for examining how the relationship between variables changes over time.

Practical implications

The findings of the study could assist shipping managers in their decisions to allocate resources for developing GHRM practices and for involving stakeholders in organizational practices to overcome competition.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the discourse on TQM by empirically investigating the combined impact of GHRM and stakeholder integration on competitive advantage – an aspect that has been relatively overlooked in existing literature.
Customer engagement and intention to purchase attitudes of generation Z consumers toward emojis in digital marketing communications
Authors: Duffett Rodney Graeme , Maraule Mihlali
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Emojis are quickly becoming a popular new language in social media and marketing. The capability to express emotions and make message understanding easier is one of the primary reasons for using emojis. The aim of this research was to determine the influence of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, trust, and involvement on customer engagement due to emojis used in digital marketing communications among Generation Z (Gen Z) in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the descriptive research approach, quantitative research was used in this study. A questionnaire (self-administered) was utilized to test the effectiveness of using emojis among 1,000 young consumers. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings of the study yielded positive relationships between the variables, namely between trust and involvement; involvement and the perceived ease of use; involvement and perceived usefulness; perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness; trust and customer engagement; perceived usefulness and customer engagement; involvement and customer engagement; customer engagement and intention to purchase; trust and intention to purchase; and perceived usefulness and intention to purchase.

Practical implications

This study can help organizations in emerging markets use emojis in their digital marketing communications to engage customers and stimulate intention to purchase among young people, especially the Gen Z cohort, who seek organizations and brands that understand and connect with them.

Originality/value

By investigating the effects of emojis in digital marketing communications, this study contributes to the customer-centric process and the literature on emoji usage while also involving a credible digital language when communicating with members of Gen Z. By extending TAM, the findings of this study contribute to the TAM literature by demonstrating that emoji usage in digital marketing communications positively influences various attitudinal associations among Gen Z consumers.
Brands as drivers of social media fatigue and its effects on users’ disengagement: the perspective of young consumers
Authors: Fernandes Teresa , Oliveira Rodrigo
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Social media has become an inescapable part of our lives. However, recent research suggests that excessive use of social media may lead to fatigue and users’ disengagement. This study aims to examine which brand-related factors contribute to social media fatigue (SMF) and its subsequent role on driving lurking behaviors, particularly among young consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on survey data from 282 young users of social media, a holistic model of brand-related drivers and outcomes of SMF was tested, emphasizing the contribution of brands’ social media presence to users’ disengagement.

Findings

Research shows that branded content overload and irrelevance, as well as branded ads intrusiveness significantly impact SMF, which in turn plays a mediating role between brand-related drivers and lurking behaviors. The authors further conclude that the impact of SMF on lurking is stronger for users who follow a larger set of brands.

Originality/value

The study contributes to social media research by addressing its “dark side” and empirically validating the role of brands’ social media presence in developing young users’ fatigue and disengagement. The study further adds to the scant literature on SMF, which was mostly developed outside the branding field. Research also provides valuable insights to brands on how to improve their social media performance.
Social experiences of deaf and hard‐of‐hearing students at a Saudi Arabian university: A qualitative study
Authors: Alsamih Munirah
Published: February 2024

This study explored the social experiences of 12 deaf and hard‐of‐hearing female university students. Semi‐structured interviews identified four key themes: university environment, peer interactions, communication and personal barriers. The majority of participants described their social experiences as positive and better than their experiences at school. The participants experienced collaboration, support, peer acceptance, friendship and high awareness of hearing disability among their hearing peers. Communication with peers was facilitated by using applications, sign language and lip reading. However, a lack of understanding from faculty members, isolation, and ignorance exhibited by some peers resulted in negative experiences for a few participants. Some participants reported personal barriers, such as personal characteristics, past negative experiences, and fear of disclosing their disability. Given the importance of social support and inclusion for students' success and well‐being, universities must prioritise the social experiences of deaf and hard‐of‐hearing students as much as their academic experiences.
Tracking long‐term services and supports rebalancing through workforce data
Authors: Ne'eman Ari
Published: February 2024

Objective

To understand trends in the long‐term services and supports (LTSS) workforce and assess workforce data as a measure of progress in shifting LTSS resources from institutional to community‐based settings.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Workforce data from the American Community Survey from 2008 to 2022.

Study Design

Measures of LTSS rebalancing and institutional and community workforce supply per 1000 persons with LTSS needs were constructed. After showing national trends over the study period, state fixed effects regressions were used to evaluate the within‐state relationship of these measures with existing measures of LTSS utilization. Workforce supply measures were compared to the percentage of state Medicaid LTSS spending spent in the community to assess their utility for across state comparisons. Each state's progress in LTSS rebalancing over the study period was then shown using workforce data.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

A sample of 336,316 LTSS workers and 3,015,284 people with LTSS needs over the study period was derived from American Community Survey data.

Principal Findings

From 2008 to 2022, the percentage of the LTSS workforce employed in the community rose from 44% to 58%. Thirty states saw more than a 10 percentage point increase. From 2008 to 2013, the size of the community workforce expanded dramatically but has since stagnated. In contrast, the institutional workforce entered a long‐term decline beginning in 2015 that accelerated during the COVID‐19 pandemic. State fixed effects regressions showed that measures of workforce supply have a strong relationship with LTSS utilization measures for older adults, but not for younger people with disabilities.

Conclusions

Workforce data can serve as an effective measure of changes in LTSS utilization for older adults. This offers researchers and policymakers a useful alternative to administrative claims, bypassing threats to comparability from coding changes and the shift to managed care. Additional data is needed on workforce trends in services for younger LTSS consumers.
Changes in antibody titer after four and five doses of the SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine in Japanese post‐kidney transplant patients
Authors: Fujieda Kumiko , Tanaka Akihito , Kikuchi Ryosuke , Takai Nami , Saito Shoji , Yasuda Yoshinari , Sano Yuta , Kato Masashi , Furuhashi Kazuhiro , Maruyama Shoichi
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Immunosuppressed patients exhibit low antibody acquisition rates following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccination. Kidney transplant recipients previously exhibited low antibody acquisition rates after two vaccine doses, which increased after the third dose. We evaluated antibody titers of Japanese post‐kidney transplant patients after the fourth and fifth vaccinations.

Methods

Antibody titers for SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein were measured between 3 weeks and 3 months after the fourth or fifth vaccination.

Results

Increased antibody acquisition rates were observed after the fourth (75.0% antibody‐positive) and fifth (81.5% antibody‐positive) vaccinations. The antibody‐acquired group after the fourth vaccination exhibited a higher body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) than the non‐acquired group. A higher eGFR was associated with antibody acquisition after the fifth vaccination.

Conclusion

In Japanese post‐kidney transplant patients, the antibody acquisition rate increased with each vaccine additional dose. Additional vaccinations are recommended to protect against SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Sex differences in neuromuscular and biological determinants of isometric maximal force
Authors: Giuriato Gaia , Romanelli Maria Grazia , Bartolini Desirée , Vernillo Gianluca , Pedrinolla Anna , Moro Tatiana , Franchi Martino , Locatelli Elena , Andani Mehran Emadi , Laginestra Fabio Giuseppe , Barbi Chiara , Aloisi Gloria Fiorini , Cavedon Valentina , Milanese Chiara , Orlandi Elisa , De Simone Tonia , Fochi Stefania , Patuzzo Cristina , Malerba Giovanni , Fabene Paolo , Donadelli Massimo , Stabile Anna Maria , Pistilli Alessandra , Rende Mario , Galli Francesco , Schena Federico , Venturelli Massimo
Published: February 2024

Aim

Force expression is characterized by an interplay of biological and molecular determinants that are expected to differentiate males and females in terms of maximal performance. These include muscle characteristics (muscle size, fiber type, contractility), neuromuscular regulation (central and peripheral factors of force expression), and individual genetic factors (miRNAs and gene/protein expression). This research aims to comprehensively assess these physiological variables and their role as determinants of maximal force difference between sexes.

Methods

Experimental evaluations include neuromuscular components of isometric contraction, intrinsic muscle characteristics (proteins and fiber type), and some biomarkers associated with muscle function (circulating miRNAs and gut microbiome) in 12 young and healthy males and 12 females.

Results

Male strength superiority appears to stem primarily from muscle size while muscle fiber‐type distribution plays a crucial role in contractile properties. Moderate‐to‐strong pooled correlations between these muscle parameters were established with specific circulating miRNAs, as well as muscle and plasma proteins.

Conclusion

Muscle size is crucial in explaining the differences in maximal voluntary isometric force generation between males and females with similar fiber type distribution. Potential physiological mechanisms are seen from associations between maximal force, skeletal muscle contractile properties, and biological markers.
Treating the innocent victims of trolleys and war
Authors: Gross Michael L.
Published: February 2024

Both trolleys and war leave innocent victims to suffer death and injury. Trolley problems accounting for the injured, and not only the dead, tease out intuitions about liability that enhance our understanding of the obligation to provide compensation and medical care to civilian victims of war. Like many trolley victims, civilians in war may suffer justifiable, excusable, or negligent harms that demand compensation. Chief among these is collateral harm befalling civilians. Collateral harm is endemic to war and comprises permissible but unavoidable death or injury following necessary and proportionate military operations. Although state armies sometimes offer condolence payments for civilian death, injury, and property loss, they deny liability. Instead, they use compensation to enhance counterinsurgency efforts and assuage feelings of agent regret. As part of the medical rules of eligibility, Coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan also provided medical care to victims of collateral harm. However, they denied care to similarly sick or injured civilians. While compensation is often justified to cure the harm civilians suffer, the differential use of medical resources is not. Rather, medical care remains subject to the principle of beneficence and medical need. The duty to provide civilian healthcare in war, particularly in wars of humanitarian intervention, is far‐reaching and imposes significant costs that military and medical ethics are yet to recognize.
Seeing myself through the eyes of my peers: Explaining the self‐concept of students with and without special educational needs through acceptance and friendship
Authors: Douma Ivonne , de Boer Anke , Minnaert Alexander
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Paving the way towards inclusive education, it is essential to aim for positive social outcomes for all students, including cultivating a positive self‐concept and fostering acceptance and friendships with peers. Although self‐concept, acceptance and friendships are interrelated, research focussing on the relationship between these constructs remains limited.

Method

This study examined the self‐concept, acceptance and friendships of two groups of typically developing students in secondary education (n = 401) and two groups of students in special secondary education with either an intellectual disability (ID) (n = 58) or social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD) (n = 68).

Results

Lower self‐concept scores were found for students with ID on some dimensions, whereas typically developing students reported lower acceptance and friendship scores. Multilevel analyses indicated that acceptance is a predictor for several different dimensions of self‐concept in the different groups of students, but friendship is less likely to predict self‐concept scores.

Discussion

The results of the study emphasize the importance of promoting peer acceptance amongst all students in inclusive school settings in order to realize the intended positive social outcomes of inclusive education.
Refining the 9q34.3 microduplication syndrome reveals mild neurodevelopmental features associated with a distinct global DNA methylation profile
Authors: Rots Dmitrijs , Rooney Kathleen , Relator Raissa , Kerkhof Jennifer , McConkey Haley , Pfundt Rolph , Marcelis Carlo , Willemsen Marjolein H. , van Hagen Johanna M. , Zwijnenburg Petra , Alders Marielle , Õunap Katrin , Reimand Tiia , Fjodorova Olga , Berland Siren , Liahjell Eva Benedicte , Bojovic Ognjen , Kriek Marjolein , Ruivenkamp Claudia , Bonati Maria Teresa , Brunner Han G. , Vissers Lisenka E. L. M. , Sadikovic Bekim , Kleefstra Tjitske
Published: February 2024

Precise regulation of gene expression is important for correct neurodevelopment. 9q34.3 deletions affecting the EHMT1 gene result in a syndromic neurodevelopmental disorder named Kleefstra syndrome. In contrast, duplications of the 9q34.3 locus encompassing EHMT1 have been suggested to cause developmental disorders, but only limited information has been available. We have identified 15 individuals from 10 unrelated families, with 9q34.3 duplications <1.5 Mb in size, encompassing EHMT1 entirely. Clinical features included mild developmental delay, mild intellectual disability or learning problems, autism spectrum disorder, and behavior problems. The individuals did not consistently display dysmorphic features, congenital anomalies, or growth abnormalities. DNA methylation analysis revealed a weak DNAm profile for the cases with 9q34.3 duplication encompassing EHMT1, which could segregate the majority of the affected cases from controls. This study shows that individuals with 9q34.3 duplications including EHMT1 gene present with mild non‐syndromic neurodevelopmental disorders and DNA methylation changes different from Kleefstra syndrome.
Effect of the NFIB rs28379954 T>C polymorphism on CYP2D6‐catalyzed metabolism of solanidine
Authors: Smith Robert Løvsletten , Wollmann Birgit M. , Størset Elisabet , Lenk Hasan Çağın , O'Connell Kevin S. , Kristiansen Marianne Kringen , Ingelman‐Sundberg Magnus , Molden Espen
Published: February 2024

Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) is important for metabolism of 20%–25% of all clinically used drugs. Many known genetic variants contribute to the large interindividual variability in CYP2D6 metabolism, but much is still unexplained. We recently described that nuclear factor 1B (NFIB) regulates hepatic CYP2D6 expression with the minor allele of NFIB rs28379954 T>C significantly increasing CYP2D6‐mediated risperidone metabolism. In this study, we investigated the effect of NFIB T>C on metabolism of solanidine, a dietary CYP2D6 substrate. Analyses of solanidine and metabolites (M414, M416, and M444) were performed by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐high‐resolution mass spectrometry in a cohort of 463 CYP2D6‐genotyped patients of which with 58 (12.5%) carried NFIB TC (n = 56) or CC (n = 2). Increased metabolism of solanidine was found in CYP2D6 normal metabolizers (NMs; n = 258, 55.7%) carrying the NFIB C variant (n = 27, 5.8%) with 2.83‐ and 3.38‐fold higher M416‐to‐solanidine (p = 0.039) and M444‐to‐solanidine (p = 0.046) ratios, respectively, whereas this effect was not significant among intermediate metabolizers (n = 166, 35.9%) (p ≥ 0.09). Importantly, no effect of the NFIB polymorphism on solanidine metabolism was seen in TC or CC carriers lacking CYP2D6 activity (poor metabolizers, n = 30, 6.5%, p ≥ 0.74). Furthermore, the NFIB polymorphism significantly explained variability in solanidine metabolism (M414 p = 0.013, M416 p = 0.020, and M416 and M444 p = 0.009) in multiple linear regression models for each metabolic ratio in the entire population, correcting for covariates (including CYP2D6 genotypes). Thus, the study confirms the effect of NFIB in regulating CYP2D6 activity, suggesting an about 200% increase in CYP2D6‐mediated clearance in NMs being NFIB CT or CC carriers, comprising around 6% of Europeans.
Geopolymers made using organic bases. Part I: Synthesis and atomic structure
Authors: Samuel Devon , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: February 2024

Geopolymers can act as a facile forming route to aluminosilicate ceramic composites due to being processed as fluids rather than as powders. However, the compositions available via typical alkali geopolymers are limited by the presence of alkali cations, introduced by the alkali silicate solution precursors. In order to expand the ceramic compositions that are accessible by geopolymer processing, this study explored the use of three strong organic bases (guanidine, tetramethylguanidine [TMG], and tetramethylammonium hydroxide [TMAOH]) as alternatives to inorganic alkali hydroxides in geopolymer synthesis. Silicate solutions were able to be produced with all three bases and favorable silica speciation was identified in the guanidine and TMG silicate solutions. Monolithic bodies were produced using guanidine and TMAOH, while no TMG samples hardened. By 27Al and 29Si nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction, the guanidine samples were determined to be structurally similar to those made using sodium hydroxide and hence can be called geopolymers, while the solids made with TMAOH were not structurally similar to sodium geopolymers and contained one or more unknown phases. This study has demonstrated that geopolymers can be made using organic bases rather than alkali hydroxides and that the speciation of dissolved silica alone does not indicate that an organic base silicate solution will be reactive.
Insider versus outsider workplace mistreatment and their impact on affective ill‐being in healthcare professionals: Can personal resources act as buffers?
Authors: Yaranon Paolo , O'Shea Deirdre , Bosak Janine , Sommovigo Valentina
Published: February 2024

Aims

Workplace stress can negatively impact healthcare providers' professionalism and quality of care. One source of workplace stress is the experience of workplace mistreatment. Drawing on the Job Demands‐Resources theory, this study aimed to (a) investigate the impact of mistreatment frequency experienced by healthcare workers from insider sources (i.e. co‐workers, supervisors) and outsider sources (i.e. patients, visitors) on affective ill‐being and (b) the potential moderating role of trait resilience and trait self‐efficacy, as personal resources, in the mistreatment–ill‐being relationship.

Design

Lagged design.

Methods

We collected data from 153 Irish healthcare workers between January 2018 and June 2019 via three surveys, separated by 1‐week intervals. Personal resources were measured at Time 1, frequency of mistreatment from the two sources was assessed at Time 2 and affective ill‐being was assessed at Time 3. We used moderated regression analyses to evaluate the association of mistreatment frequency from the two sources and affective ill‐being and the moderating effect of personal resources.

Results

Only insider mistreatment frequency was positively related to affective ill‐being. Furthermore, the positive impact of insider mistreatment on affective ill‐being was moderated by self‐efficacy (but not by trait resilience). In contrast to our expectations, the relationship was stronger at high levels compared to low levels of self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

Mistreatment from co‐workers and supervisors is linked to higher levels of affective ill‐being. Additionally, healthcare workers with high self‐efficacy were more vulnerable to the negative consequences of co‐worker and supervisor mistreatment as it impacted their affective ill‐being.

Impact

These findings extend the literature on workplace mistreatment by integrating insider and outsider perpetrators of mistreatment and examining their differential impact on the employees' affective ill‐being. It also highlights mistreatment from organizational insiders as a significant factor in the relationship between mistreatment and affective ill‐being.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

What Does this Paper Contribute to the Wider Global Community?

The findings underscore the detrimental impact of workplace mistreatment on the well‐being of healthcare professionals.

The study findings of higher frequency of insider mistreatment being associated with increased affective ill‐being call for action, with line managers and supervisors being critical to achieving respective changes in healthcare workers' environment.

The findings have implications for policymakers interested in developing a framework to support healthcare professionals in addressing workplace mistreatment, enabling them to effectively fulfil their role as care providers.
Understanding African American help‐seeking for romantic relationships: Advocacy, barriers, and considerations
Authors: Hubbard Aimee , Harris Steven , Dick Mary , McGee DasJohn
Published: February 2024

African American couples experience greater levels of relationship distress than other racial/ethnic groups, but they are less likely to seek formal couple counseling. Existing literature highlights the importance of community support in the form of church, family, and friends. While the literature suggests that African Americans encounter unique barriers, we do not know how racism and discrimination impact the couple help‐seeking process. This study seeks to address this gap and better understand unique barriers in the African American couple help‐seeking (AACHS) process via a grounded theory‐informed qualitative study. Findings from interviews with 11 African American individuals in committed relationships highlighted mistrust as a significant barrier to AACHS, while community supports are frequently sought out. Our findings add to current understandings about AACHS and highlight important areas for future research. In the clinical implications section, the authors outline tangible steps that clinicians can take based on the findings from this study.
For love and money: Navigating values at the antiques roadshow event
Authors: Cornish Helen , Weston Gavin , Djohari Natalie , Urdea Alexandra , Liber Elena , Evans Lowri
Published: February 2024

Antiques Roadshow Events are held in historic locations across the United Kingdom. On site, experts evaluate objects brought in by attendees, who are often cast as passive recipients, while edited highlights make up the long‐running BBC TV program. Through Collaborative Event Ethnography at one Roadshow Event we show how object stories are navigated through “value talk” between attendees and experts in front of live audiences. Value is not a measurement but a dimension of the thing and its context. Stories and money are both integral in understanding worth, and final valuations are only partially shaped by given expertise.
Dreaming in patients with cancer and their partners–an underestimated factor for quality of life?
Authors: Salomo Sarah , Hackl Tabea , Hübner Jutta , Hagemeyer Birk
Published: February 2024

Sleep disorders are prevalent among patients with cancer and their caregivers as well, affecting their quality of life. But the relationship between sleep quality, dream experiences, and life satisfaction in patients with cancer and their partners is understudied. The present research aimed to quantitatively investigate the dream experiences of oncology patients and explore the interdependence between patients and their partners in terms of dream experiences and life satisfaction. Therefore, a cross‐sectional study was conducted with 101 dyads, completing a questionnaire assessing demographic and illness‐related data, dream experiences, sleep quality, and life satisfaction. Inferential statistical tests and actor–partner interdependence models were used to analyse the data. Both patients with cancer and their partners reported on average a significant decrease in sleep quality since the cancer diagnosis and for both dyad members significant dreaming predictors for life satisfaction were found. Namely, a positive association for dream stability in patients, and a positive association for positive dream affect as well as a negative association for negative dream affect in partners. Regarding the question of interdependence, dream intensity exhibited a significant group‐specific partner effect, but no overall partner effect, leading to inconclusive results that call for more studies in this field. The study suggests that dreaming may affect life satisfaction beyond sleep quality and underscores the significance of acknowledging dream experiences as potential influencers of quality of life in patients with cancer. Additionally, the study stands out for its examination of the role of partners in dyadic dependency, emphasising the importance of understanding their influence on patients’ experiences.
Distal Junctional Failures in Degenerative Thoracolumbar Hyperkyphosis
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Li Junyu , Xi Yu , Zeng Yan , Yu Miao , Sun Zhuoran , Ma Yinghong , Liu Zhongjun , Chen Zhongqiang , Li Weishi
Published: February 2024

Objective

Degenerative thoracolumbar hyperkyphosis (DTH) is a disease that negatively affects individual health and requires surgical intervention, yet the ideal surgical approach and complications, especially distal junctional failures (DJF), remain poorly understood. This study aims to investigate DJF in DTH and to identify the risk factors for DJF so that we can improve surgical decision‐making, and advance our knowledge in the field of spinal surgery to enhance patient outcomes.

Methods

This study retrospectively reviewed 78 cases (late osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture [OVCF], 51; Scheuermann's kyphosis [SK], 17; and degenerative disc diseases [DDD], 10) who underwent corrective surgery in our institute from 2008 to 2019. Clinical outcomes were assessed using health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) measures, including the visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for back and leg pain, the Oswestry disability index (ODI), and the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scoring system. Multiple radiographic parameters, such as global kyphosis (GK) and thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), were assessed to determine radiographic outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to identify the risk factors associated with DJF.

Results

HRQOL improved, and GK, TLK decreased at the final follow‐up, with a correction rate of 67.7% and 68.5%, respectively. DJF was found in 13 of 78 cases (16.7%), two cases had wedging in the disc (L3‐4) below the instrumentation, one case had a fracture of the lowest instrumented vertebrae (LIV), one case had osteoporotic fracture below the fixation, nine cases had pull‐out or loosening of the screws at the LIV and three cases (23.1%) required revision surgery. The DJF group had older age, lower computed tomography Hounsfield unit (CT HU), longer follow‐up, more blood loss, greater preoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA), and poorer postoperative JOA and VAS scores (back). The change in TLK level was larger in the non‐DJF group. Post‐sagittal stable vertebrae (SSV) moved cranially compared with pre‐SSV.

Conclusion

Age, CT HU, length of follow‐up, estimated blood loss, and preoperative SVA were independent risk factors for DJF. We recommend fixation of the two vertebrae below the apex vertebrae for DTH to minimize surgical trauma.
TiRobot‐Assisted Percutaneous Cannulated Screw Fixation for Elderly Patients with Fragility Fractures of the Pelvis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xing Baorui , Shen Xiaoyu , Ma Lijie , Qi Xiangbei
Published: February 2024

Objective

The incidence of fragility fractures of the pelvis (FFPs) is increasing in the elderly population, and FFPs that require fixation are a challenge for orthopedic surgeons. The insertion of implants is not risk free due to the complex anatomical and osteoporotic bones and requires a steep learning curve. This study aimed to investigate the clinical efficacy of TiRobot‐assisted percutaneous cannulated screw fixation in the treatment of elderly FFP patients.

Method

The clinical data of 46 elderly FFP patients who had been treated with percutaneous cannulated screw fixation from May 2020 to September 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Twenty‐four patients were treated with percutaneous cannulated screw fixation assisted by the TiRobot (TiRobot‐assisted group) and 22 patients were treated with conventional freehand surgery (freehand group). Postoperative outcomes, including Matta value, excellent and good rate (EGR) of fracture reduction, and accuracy of screw placement (ASP), were compared. Changes in the Visual analog scale (VAS) pain score and the Majeed score were recorded and compared between groups before and after surgery and during the 24‐week follow‐up. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and effect sizes were used as analysis methods.

Results

A total of 90 screws were implanted, 51 screws in the TiRobot‐assisted group and 39 screws in the freehand group. The operation time of the two groups was 34.1 ± 2.67 min versus 64.5 ± 4.19 min (p < 0.001). There were no screw‐related complications or revision surgeries in any group. The Matta value of the TiRobot‐assisted group was 5.13 ± 3.52, which was significantly lower than that of the freehand group (9.00 ± 3.68, p < 0.001), while the EGR was 91.67% versus 72.73%, with statistical significance (p < 0.001). The ASP was 100% in the TiRobot‐assisted group, better than that in the freehand group, where it was 85.7% (p = 0.043). At each timepoint in the early postoperative period, the VAS score of the TiRobot‐assisted group was significantly lower than that of the freehand group and was close to consistent by the last follow‐up; the Majeed score of the former was significantly higher than that of the latter at each timepoint of follow‐up, with statistical significance (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

TiRobot‐assisted percutaneous cannulated screw fixation of elderly FFP patients is advantageous over conventional freehand surgery, with less invasion, more accurate screw placement, better fracture reduction, early pain relief, and rapid recovery, suggesting that Freehand method to stabilize FFP in the elderly population.
Effect of Perineural or Intravenous Betamethasone on Femoral Nerve Block Outcomes in Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized, Controlled Study
Authors: Li Binglong , Yang Xiaomei , Liu Fang , Huang Huang , Zhang Baoqing , Li Xuezhou , Lu Qunshan , Liu Peilai , Fan Lixia
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Despite the use of multimodal analgesia, patients undergoing knee arthroplasty still encounter residual moderate pain. The addition of betamethasone to local anesthetic has been shown to improve postoperative pain. However, it remains uncertain whether the positive effects of perineural or intravenous administration of betamethasone on analgesia outcomes lead to better early mobility and postoperative recovery.

Methods

Between June 2022 and February 2023, a total of 159 patients who were undergoing knee arthroplasty were included in this study. These patients were allocated randomly into three groups: (i) the NS group, received ropivacaine 0.375% and intravenous 3mL 0.9% normal saline; (ii) the PNB group, received ropivacaine 0.375% plus perineural betamethasone (12mg) 3mL and intravenous 3mL 0.9% normal saline; and (iii) the IVB group, received ropivacaine 0.375% and intravenous betamethasone (12mg) 3mL.

Results

Both perineural and intravenous administration of betamethasone led to improved median (IQR) numeric rating scale (NRS) scores on the 6‐meter walk test, with a score of 1.0 (1.0–2.0) for both groups, compared with 2.0 (1.0–2.0) for the NS group (p = 0.003). Compared to the NS group, both the PNB and IVB groups showed significant reductions in NRS scores at 24 and 36 h after surgery, along with a significant increase in ROM at 24, 36, and 48 h post‐operation. Additionally, it exhibited lower levels of cytokine IL‐1β and TNF‐α in fluid samples, as well as lower level of HS‐CRP in blood samples in the PNB and IVB groups compared to the NS group.

Conclusion

The administration of perineural and intravenous betamethasone demonstrated an enhanced analgesic effect following knee arthroplasty. Furthermore, it was associated with reduced levels of IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and HS‐CRP, as well as enhanced knee ROM, which is conducive to early ambulation and postoperative rehabilitation after knee arthroplasty.
Integrating computational thinking in elementary STEM using the engineering design process
Authors: Galanti Terrie M. , Holincheck Nancy M.
Published: February 2024

Model‐eliciting activities (MEAs) challenge students to interpret a problem and collaboratively create solutions using the engineering design process. This Innovation to Practice article describes how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teacher educators can use MEAs to build elementary teachers' understanding of computational thinking (CT). Our Countdown Timer MEA is aligned with Grade 2 mathematics and computer science standards. We discuss how this MEA created opportunities for teachers in an online graduate STEM education course to engage as learners in unplugged and plugged CT activities. Teachers used algorithmic design and debugging to model a digital display and to create block‐based code for a recess countdown timer. Teachers' reflections on how their learning experiences were different than those offered in step‐by‐step CT lessons allowed teachers to envision how MEAs can promote important CT dispositions of persistence in open‐ended problem solving and tolerance for ambiguity. By aligning MEA design and facilitation with the phases of the engineering design process, teacher educators can use modeling to engage elementary teachers in facets of CT that are transferable to the elementary STEM classroom.
Research and application of neural network‐based intelligent water‐saving systems
Authors: Wu Dan
Published: February 2024

Capitalizing on the swift evolution of big data and information technology, conventional water‐saving endeavours have been revamped into ‘smart water‐saving’. This paradigm shift leverages cutting‐edge technologies like neural networks, the Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced sensor systems. These components seamlessly integrate with network infrastructure, mobile systems and sophisticated water‐saving information systems to forge comprehensive smart water‐saving management systems. These systems adeptly amass, process and dissect vast troves of water‐saving data, harmonizing with the requirements of water management authorities and consumers alike. This fusion of technology empowers us to furnish all‐encompassing information services, thereby elevating the standards of water resource management. In summary, the integration of state‐of‐the‐art technology into water‐saving initiatives represents a momentous leap forward in addressing critical water‐related challenges and realizing more efficient, sustainable water resource management practices.
Arctic sea ice retreat fuels boreal forest advance
Authors: Dial Roman J. , Maher Colin T. , Hewitt Rebecca E. , Wockenfuss Amy M. , Wong Russell E. , Crawford Daniel J. , Zietlow Madeline G. , Sullivan Patrick F.
Published: February 2024

Climate-induced northward advance of boreal forest is expected to lessen albedo, alter carbon stocks, and replace tundra, but where and when this advance will occur remains largely unknown. Using data from 19 sites across 22 degrees of longitude along the tree line of northern Alaska, we show a stronger temporal correlation of tree ring growth with open water uncovered by retreating Arctic sea ice than with air temperature. Spatially, our results suggest that tree growth, recruitment, and range expansion are causally linked to open water through associated warmer temperatures, deeper snowpacks, and improved nutrient availability. We apply a meta-analysis to 82 circumarctic sites, finding that proportionally more tree lines have advanced where proximal to ongoing sea ice loss. Taken together, these findings underpin how and where changing sea ice conditions facilitate high-latitude forest advance.
Explaining quantum field theory
Waves in an Impossible Sea: How Everyday Life Emerges from the Cosmic Ocean
Matt Strassler
Basic Books, 2024. 384 pp.
Authors: Lincoln Don
Published: February 2024

A theoretical physicist offers an intuitive primer on the nature of matter and energy
Sex- and species-associated differences in complement-mediated immunity in humans and rhesus macaques
Authors: Kelkar Natasha S. , Goldberg Benjamin S. , Dufloo Jérémy , Bruel Timothée , Schwartz Olivier , Hessell Ann J. , Ackerman Margaret E.
Published: February 2024

The complement system can be viewed as a “moderator” of innate immunity, “instructor” of humoral immunity, and “regulator” of adaptive immunity. While sex is known to affect humoral and cellular immune systems, its impact on complement in humans and rhesus macaques, a commonly used non-human primate model system, has not been well studied. To address this knowledge gap, we analyzed serum samples from 90 humans and 72 rhesus macaques for the abundance and activity of the complement system components. While sequences of cascade proteins were highly conserved, dramatically different levels were observed between species. Whereas the low levels detected in rhesus samples raised questions about the suitability of the test for use with macaque samples, differences in levels of complement proteins were observed in male and female humans. Levels of total and antibody-dependent deposition of C1q and C3b on a glycosylated antigen differed between humans and rhesus, suggesting differential recognition of glycans and balance between classical and alternative activation pathways. Functional differences in complement-mediated lysis of antibody-sensitized cells were observed in multiple assays and showed that human females frequently exhibited higher lytic activity than human males or rhesus macaques, which typically did not exhibit such sex-associated differences. Other differences between species and sexes were observed in more narrow contexts—for only certain antibodies, antigens, or assays. Collectively, these results expand knowledge of sex-associated differences in the complement system in humans, identifying differences absent from rhesus macaques.

IMPORTANCE

The complement system is a critical part of host defense to many bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. In parallel, rich epidemiological, clinical, and biomedical research evidence demonstrates that sex is an important biological variable in immunity, and many sex-specific differences in immune system are intimately tied with disease outcomes. This study focuses on the intersection of these two factors to define the impact of sex on complement pathway components and activities. This work expands our knowledge of sex-associated differences in the complement system in humans and also identifies the differences that appear to be absent in rhesus macaques, a popular non-human primate model. Whereas differences between species suggest potential limitations in the ability of macaque model to recapitulate human biology, knowledge of sex-based differences in humans has the potential to inform clinical research and practice.
Complete genome sequence of
Bradyrhizobium
sp. 62B, a native nitrogen-fixing rhizobium isolated from peanut nodules
Authors: Nievas Fiorela , Revale Santiago , Cossovich Sacha , Foresto Emiliano , Carezzano María Evangelina , Alzari Pedro , Martínez Mariano , Ben- Assaya Mathilde , Mornico Damien , Santoro Maricel , Martínez-Abarca Francisco , Giordano Walter , Bogino Pablo
Published: February 2024

We present the complete genome sequence of
Bradyrhizobium
sp. 62B, a strain isolated from the root nodules of peanut plants that grow in central Argentina. The genome consists of 8.15 Mbp, distributed into a chromosome of 7.29 Mbp and a plasmid of 0.86 Mbp.