bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a care bundle on short peripheral catheter-associated complications in a resource-limited neonatal unit
Authors: Dramowski Angela , Erasmus Louisa , Fataar Aaqilah , Cotton Mark F , Whitelaw Andrew C , Coffin Susan , Bekker Adrie
Published: September 2024

Background:

Short peripheral catheter (SPC)-associated complications occur frequently in hospitalised neonates. Few studies have reported the use of SPC care bundles in resource-limited neonatal units.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of a SPC care bundle on SPC associated complications (infiltration, dislodgement, phlebitis) and catheter dwell time.

Methods:

We conducted a quasi-experimental study comparing neonatal SPC complications during a 2-month baseline and a 2-month intervention period, where a SPC care bundle was introduced including hand hygiene, insertion site antisepsis, nurse assistance during cannulation, IV insertion carts and IV securement dressings.

Results:

A total of 459 SPC days were observed in 223 neonates: 111 pre-intervention and 112 post-intervention (after SPC bundle implementation). Most neonates were preterm (208, 93.3%) with very or extremely low birth weight (133, 59.6%). SPC care bundle compliance was 43.8% for five bundle elements and 83.9% for four bundle elements. Most SPCs had unplanned removal within 48 h of insertion owing to infiltration or dislodgement (89/111 pre-intervention (80.2%) vs 90/112 post-intervention (80.4%); 0.974). No phlebitis was documented. The mean SPC dwell time was unchanged following bundle implementation (32.9 vs 34.2 h; p = 0.376).

Conclusions:

Infiltration and dislodgement occurred frequently necessitating replacement of four of every five SPCs. Despite moderate compliance with the SPC care bundle, the high rates of unplanned SPC removal and short duration of catheter dwell time were unchanged.

Contribution:

The SPC care bundle did not improve catheter dwell time; further research is needed to identify strategies to reduce unplanned SPC removal and extend catheter dwell time in hospitalised neonates.
Impact of peer-to-peer online experience on cultural tourism marketing
Authors: Li Shugang , Li Ziyi , Zhu Boyi , Zhu He , Yu Zhaoxu
Published: September 2024

Peer-to-peer (P2P) online experience offers low-cost immersive cultural experiences, but enterprises fear that it will negatively affect local tourism marketing. This study proposes a sequential mediation model to explore how P2P online experience stimulates travel intentions and attraction recommendations. We find that P2P online experience increases cultural presence, which in turn leads to higher situational empathy. This increased empathy then contributes to predicted tourism experience, which ultimately shapes behavioral intentions toward travel and attraction recommendations. Furthermore, the study finds that the impact of P2P online experience on behavioral intentions is stronger for consumers with lower cultural cognitive levels of tourist attractions. Our findings demonstrate the importance of P2P online experience on cultural presence and situational empathy in shaping travel behavior.
Surviving the atrocity: A study of resilience and coping behaviour among Ukrainians during the Russo-Ukrainian war
Authors: Kovalenko Julia
Published: September 2024

The study was conducted during the first 8 months of the Russo-Ukrainian war, investigating an interplay of resilience, coping strategies and perceived stress in Ukrainians of various age groups, war experiences and displacement statuses. The study was conducted on the sample of 18–76-year-old Ukrainians ( n = 337) using the COPE, CD-RISC-10 and PSS-14 scales. It aimed to understand how Ukrainians cope with war-stressors and stay resilient. Data analyses, including Bayesian ANOVA, independent samples t-tests, linear regressions and bivariate correlation, were conducted using JASP and IBM SPSS-23. The results of the quantitative study showed that Ukrainians attributed their resilience to perceived self-efficacy, regulating emotions and flexibility. It was also found that the pattern of most and least preferred coping strategies was relatively consistent across all the sample subgroups. Thus, to cope with war, Ukrainians relied on ‘planning’, ‘positive interpretation and growth’, ‘acceptance’ and ‘active coping’ and refrained from ‘behavioural disengagement’, ‘denial’ and ‘substance use’. It was concluded that coping strategies may be significant predictors of Ukrainians’ resilience.
Psychometric characteristics of the multidimensional scale of perceived social support in ostomy patients and their caregivers
Authors: Iovino Paolo , Marcomini Ilaria , Rasero Laura , Manara Duilio Fiorenzo , Vellone Ercole , Villa Giulia
Published: September 2024

Despite the importance of social support in ostomy care, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) does not appear to be validated in the context of ostomy care. This study evaluated the psychometric characteristics of MSPSS in ostomy patients and their informal caregivers. The MSPSS was tested in a sample of 775 participants with confirmatory factor analysis. Internal consistency reliability was assessed with the ordinal Omega coefficient. Criterion-related validity was ascertained via hypothesis testing by correlating the scores of the MSPSS with other measures. MSPSS for patients and caregivers has a three-factor structure with a good fit. Internal consistency reliability of the factors was excellent. Concurrent validity was supported by the negative correlations between MSPSS scores with depression and stoma-related QoL, and the positive correlations with perceived mutuality. Our research indicates that the MSPSS is a sound measure of social support for ostomy patients and their caregivers.
Integrating pro-environmental behaviors into school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports for creating green schools
Authors: Demirtaş Şenol , Karasu Necdet , Afacan Kemal , Aykut Çığıl , Karahan Mehmet Baki , Sert Cihan
Published: September 2024

The causes of dramatic climate change mostly lie in human behavior. Humans cause climate change, for example, by creating waste. Pro-environmental behavior plays a crucial role in fighting climate change by preventing waste and conserving resources. Therefore, schools should foster pro-environmental behavior to fight climate change more effectively. Schools can foster pro-environmental behavior by organizing activities focused on both saving water, energy and managing waste through recycling and reuse. As such, one of the systems that can be used to increase the quality and efficiency of green school practices is School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SW-PBIS). SW-PBIS is a three-tiered approach that matches intervention intensity to student’s needs, aiming to improve all students’ social and educational outcomes through evidence-based preventive behavioral interventions. However, when SW-PBIS implementations are generally considered, the system is mainly used to prevent problem behaviors. While respect, responsibility, and safety are the most common expectations, no expectation is created or included in the system based on sustainability. So, the starting point of the idea is that while problem behaviors can be prevented with SW-PBIS, pro-environmental behaviors to promote a green school can also be taught and supported. Consequently, this article introduces a conceptual framework to integrate pro-environmental behaviors into SW-PBIS for creating green schools. We discuss the importance of SW-PBIS in fostering pro-environmental behavior and how it can help develop responsible students who contribute to green schools to fight climate change. We also discuss implications for future research and practice. This conceptual framework is expected to expand the scope of SW-PBIS and contribute to the implementation of green school initiatives.
Systematic review and meta-analysis comparing robotic total mesorectal excision versus transanal total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer
Authors: Chaouch Mohamed Ali , Hussain Mohammad Iqbal , Jellali Maissa , Gouader Amine , Mazzotta Alessandro , da Costa Adriano Carneiro , Krimi Bassem , Khan Jim , Oweira Hani
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

The best approach for total mesorectal excision (TME) remains controversial. Two recently described approaches are robotic TME (RTME) and transanal TME (TaTME). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the outcomes between robotic surgery and TaTME in patients undergoing rectal cancer resection.

Methods:

We structured this systematic review and meta-analysis according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines 2020 and Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) guidelines. An electronic search of relevant literature was conducted on 20 May 2023. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023435259).

Results:

Eleven eligible nonrandomised studies were included in this study. The study included 2796 patients (RTME = 1800; TaTME = 996). The RTME group had a higher rate of complete TME. However, no significant differences were observed in mortality, morbidity, severe complications, operative time, conversion rate, anastomotic leak, hospital stay, CRM-positive resection margin, distal resection margin, number of harvested lymph nodes, abdominoperineal resection (APR) rate, or local recurrence between the RTME and TaTME groups.

Conclusion:

The RTME technique may ensure a higher rate of complete TME than TaTME. However, no significant differences were observed in most postoperative outcomes and oncological safety between the RTME and TaTME groups. Evidence does not conclusively favor one technique over the other, highlighting the need for additional randomized controlled trials to better define their roles in rectal cancer surgery.
What helps adult learners with little formal schooling to develop basic digital skills?
Authors: Hannemann Tereza , Kopáňková Nikol , Surynková Petra
Published: September 2024

In today’s world, having at least basic digital skills is essential in working, social, and family life. The present study uses grounded theory to explore ways in which people with little formal schooling engage with the digital world. Drawing on 54 semi-structured interviews, it describes how people with little IT experience from formal education obtain information about digital security, privacy, the functioning of antivirus software, software updates, and so on. We introduce the concepts of computer world and ministories which draw parallels between the online and offline worlds. While creating the concepts of computer world and ministories, we follow Richard Mayer’s theory of multimedia learning, and thus ministories are based on the appropriate combination of images and texts. The study attempts to answer the following general question: ‘Is it better to teach people how to work with specific apps for everyday use or teach them the principles that are behind them?’. This question should be asked when creating new approach in IT education and not only in lifelong learning.
Noblessner District in Tallinn: Recycling the Pasts to Discover the Futures
Authors: Seits Irina
Published: September 2024

This article analyses strategies for revitalisation of Tallinn’s industrial heritage and reflects on the reuses of history from the late Russian Empire to the Soviet period, referring to the case of the Noblessner district, one of the country's most vibrant and rapidly developing seafront quarters. Contemporary Noblessner advertising promises a European dream city with hipster cafes, galleries, and loft-style art studios located in former shipyards; a promenade along the Baltic Sea coast, trendy business spaces, and residential blocks offered for those who appreciate nature, art, and style (Noblessner.ee, 2024).The Noblessner quarter gives an example of successful transformation of a neglected industrial site into a modern public space with high potential for further development. By referring exclusively to the most attractive moments of its history and by recycling them into attractions, Noblessner creates new narratives of its own urban biography that can be safely projected into the future, and which leave no room for ambiguous interpretations. Therefore, the revitalisation project of the Noblessner district avoids citing controversial episodes from its history, developing a space, in which the past is presented selectively. Noblessner's biography is not introduced as a continuous historical narrative, it is fragmentated and recycled into an appealing wrapping that can attract investors, visitors, and residents. In recent years, Noblessner has become the site of numerous contacts: commercial, artistic, public, and private, which create a space that is representative of the whole Estonia. However, Noblessner's history is still unknown to most of its visitors and residents. It was muted during the Soviet regime, and has not yet been visibly integrated into the revived space.
Job Mobility in the Time of Recovery: An Examination of How Job Threats Influence Turnover Intentions
Authors: McGinley Sean
Published: September 2024

The labor market has recovered from the lows induced by pandemic-era lockdowns, and this study seeks to determine how that recovery influences hospitality turnover. Drawing on Control Theory and the Threat-Rigidity Hypothesis, moderated associations were proposed between career variety and turnover intentions and grit and turnover intentions. The observed results supported the proposed theoretical explanation of job insecurity moderating the associations. Given low levels of job insecurity, people high in career variety were more likely to harbor high levels of turnover intentions and those with high levels of grit were less likely to harbor high turnover intentions. Theoretical contributions and practical implications are also discussed.
Examining the Experiences of Veterans in Higher Education Through the Lens of Veteran Critical Theory
Authors: Robinson Petra A. , Hager Bethany A.
Published: September 2024

Colleges and universities invest in various initiatives and efforts to support veterans who enroll in higher education. One such support initiative, the focus of this paper, is a specifically designed academic 1-credit hour course for veterans, intended to support their transition to college. Through the theoretical lens of veteran critical theory (VCT) and self-directed learning (SDL), we conducted a qualitative case study and explored the experiences of veteran students who enrolled in this course specifically to learn more about the opportunities it creates to support them as they transition to college and a civilian career. Additionally, we examined the processes and experiences of the designers and instructors of the course to learn more about the administrative elements of the course and about the ways in which they perceive the course as being useful for supporting veterans and their transition to higher education as a stepping-stone for gaining meaningful employment. We collected data through semi-structured interviews, a survey, and document analysis for which we employed a thematic and content analysis. In this paper, we present the participants’ insights into the unique challenges and opportunities veterans face and outline their thoughts on the significance, relevance, and applicability of various components of the course. We ground the discussion with VCT and SDL and highlight the perceived impact of the course and recommendations for future enhancements.
Powerful and Vulnerable: Workplace Violence Against Swedish Social Workers, Teachers, and Journalists
Authors: Scaramuzzino Maria Gabriella
Published: September 2024

This article compares Swedish social workers, teachers, and journalists’ experiences of workplace violence. It addresses similarities and differences between the three professional groups in terms of who exposed them to workplace violence, what it was about, and what triggered it. The article is based on an online survey study, and the findings suggest that consumer-related violence from target groups was the most common among all three professional groups. Looking at worker-on-worker relationship violence, the teachers were the most exposed, followed by social workers and journalists, and such violence suggests bullying in the workplace. Most respondents stated that the hate, threats, and harassment were about their professional competence. While all of these professional groups have a position of power in society, they also perceive that it is often in the situations in which they exercise their power (e.g., making a decision for social workers and teachers or when journalists publish) that they become targets for workplace violence.
Coming Out Queer: Sexual and Romantic Exploration and Identity Development of LGBQ+ College Students
Authors: Lamont Ellen , Roach Teresa
Published: September 2024

LGBQ+ youth from conservative Christian families and/or communities face challenges developing positive understandings of their sexualities. Many view college as a more welcoming space that will allow them to conceptualize and enact their sexual identities in new and beneficial ways. Yet college campuses may support some aspects of LGBQ+ identity development at the expense of others. Through interviews with 26 LGBQ+ students from conservative Christian backgrounds, we show that the transition to college served as an opportunity to access supportive spaces that encouraged exploration and self-development and affirmed LGBQ+ identities, increasing self-esteem and well-being. However, many students still struggled to access sexual and romantic relationships, limiting opportunities to learn about themselves and their emerging desires. Our findings demonstrate how the interplay between communities of origin and destination conditions shape identity development in emerging adulthood and make clear the importance of sexual and romantic exploration to this process.
Comparative 60-day effectiveness of bivalent versus monovalent mRNA vaccines in Shelby County: a population-level analysis
Authors: Plaxco Allison P. , Kmet Jennifer , Smeltzer Matthew P. , Jiang Yu , Taylor Michelle , Nolan Vikki G.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Two monovalent mRNA vaccines, available in December 2020, were demonstrated to have high efficacy against both the original SARS-CoV-2 strain and variants circulating through the summer and into the fall of 2021. In the context of the Omicron/BA.1 variant, which was predominant from late fall 2021 into winter of 2022 in the United States, and subsequent Omicron subvariants that have been predominant thereafter, vaccine effectiveness of the monovalent mRNA vaccine option is attenuated.

Objectives:

We aim to investigate the relative effectiveness of the bivalent booster compared to the monovalent booster against SARS-CoV-2 infection in the 60 days following administration in Shelby County, TN.

Design:

This observational population-based cohort study utilizes COVID-19 surveillance data to identify adults who were vaccinated with a monovalent booster dose between August 1, 2022 and August 30, 2022 or a bivalent booster dose between September 1, 2022 and September 30, 2022. Both groups were followed for COVID-19 status for 60 days from their administration date.

Methods:

We calculated incidence rates with 95% confidence intervals and propensity-adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals of COVID-19 diagnosis in the 60 days following administration of the booster dose between the bivalent group and the monovalent group. Stratified analysis was conducted by age group (18–34, 35–64, and 65+ years old).

Results:

The incidence of reported SARS-CoV-2 infection was substantially higher for those who received the monovalent booster, across age groups. Overall, we observed a 51% lower hazard of infection during the study period among those who received the bivalent booster, compared to the monovalent booster.

Conclusion:

These results support and extend prior findings that the bivalent booster dose may be more effective in preventing infection against the Omicron sub-variants of SARS-CoV-2.
Hybrid emergency care at the home for patients – A multiple case study
Authors: Falchenberg Åsa , Andersson Ulf , Boysen Gabriella Norberg , Andersson Henrik , Sterner Anders
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Healthcare systems worldwide are facing numerous challenges, such as an aging population, reduced availability of hospital beds, staff reductions and closure of emergency departments (ED). These issues can exacerbate crowding and boarding problems in the ED, negatively impacting patient safety and the work environment. In Sweden a hybrid of prehospital and intrahospital emergency care has been established, referred to in this article as Medical Emergency Team (MET), to meet the increasing demand for emergency care. MET, consisting of physicians and nurses, moving emergency care from EDs to patients’ home. Physicians and nurses may encounter challenges in their healthcare work, such as limited resources for example medical equipment, sampling and examination, in unfamiliar varying home environments. There is a lack of knowledge about how these challenges can influence patient care. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the healthcare work of the METs when addressing patients’ emergency care needs in their homes, with a focus on the METs reasoning and actions.

Methods

Using a qualitative multiple case study design, two METs in southwestern Sweden were explored. Data were collected from September 2023 – January 2024 and consist of field notes from participant observations, short interviews and written reflections. A qualitative manifest content analysis with an inductive approach was used as the analysis method.

Result

The result of this study indicates that physicians and nurses face several challenges in their daily work, such as recurring interruptions, miscommunication and faltering teamwork. Some of these problems may arise because physicians and nurses are not accustomed to working together as a team in a different care context. These challenges can lead to stress, which ultimately can expose patients to unnecessary risks.

Conclusion

When launching a new service like METs, which is a hybrid of prehospital and intrahospital emergency care, it is essential to plan and prepare thoroughly to effectively address the challenges and obstacles that may arise. One way to prepare is through team training. Team training can help reduce hierarchical structures by enabling physicians and nurses to feel that they can contribute, collaborate, and take responsibility, leading to a more dynamic and efficient work environment.
Retrospective analysis of the upper airway anatomy and Sella turcica morphology across different skeletal malocclusions: a computerized technique
Authors: Marya Anand , Inglam Samroeng , Dagnaud Adrien , Wanchat Sujin , Naronglerdrit Prasitthichai , Rithvitou Horn , Chantarapanich Nattapon
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the normal volumetric space and variations in the measurements of different landmarks in adults with different skeletal relations of the maxilla and the mandible based on CBCT data. The study also analyses these landmarks to locate any correlations.

Background

Numerous studies in orthodontics have found a relationship between orthodontic treatment and changes in the anatomy and function of the airway. Severe changes in airway morphology can cause breathing difficulties, lower quality of life, and even result in life-threatening conditions such as obstructive sleep apnoea. Consequently, orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning require a thorough understanding of the airway space and its function.

Methods

The present retrospective study was conducted using CBCT records of 120 adult patients, containing 40 samples of each skeletal class (20 males and 20 females). The boundaries were defined for the 3 major regions: the nasopharynx, the oropharynx, and the hypopharynx. Various measurements were recorded across these regions, as well as selective cephalometric landmarks. The obtained data was used to calculate average and standard deviation, while regression analysis was used to evaluate correlations and t-test was used to test statistical significance of gender differences.

Results

The results demonstrate that skeletal Class III individuals exhibit a reduced airway volume in the nasopharynx compared to other groups, whereas skeletal Class II individuals displayed a diminished airway volume in the hypopharynx. A strong correlation was observed for Sella turcica parameters. There were no significant differences in skeletal parameters across genders. Nasopharynx cavity volume demonstrated significant differences between skeletal Class I–Class III as well as between skeletal Class II–Class III. Hypopharynx cavity volume also demonstrated significant differences between skeletal Class I–Class II and between skeletal Class II–Class III.

Conclusion

The major findings are the presence of a reduced nasopharyngeal volume in skeletal Class III malocclusions while skeletal Class II individuals displayed a diminished hypopharyngeal volume, making these critical areas to consider during the diagnostic and orthodontic treatment planning stages. This study also revealed a consistent correlation between Sella turcica parameters across various facial skeletal profiles, with skeletal Class II patients exhibiting a distinct pattern and skeletal Class I and Class III demonstrating an average relationship.
Monostotic fibrous dysplasia of jaw bones: a case series
Authors: Hande Alka , Kalmegh Padmashri , Patil Swati , Sonone Archana , Pakhale Aayushi
Published: September 2024

Background

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a benign fibro-osseous lesion, a skeletal developmental anomaly of the bone-forming mesenchyme. The diagnosis of fibro-osseous lesions, particularly those of the jaw bones, poses significant challenges to clinicians and pathologists since it requires a correlation of clinical, radiological, histological, and surgical findings. Accurate and specific diagnosis is crucial as treatment modalities differ with different fibro-osseous lesions.

Methods

This retrospective analysis presents a case series of a rare condition of monostotic FD in the maxillofacial region affecting jaw bones diagnosed and/or treated over period of 10 years.

Results

Five cases of monostotic FD were diagnosed and treated between a period of 2013 and 2023. The cases from the 2nd to 8th decade were included in the analysis with equal involvement of males and females. Out of five cases, four cases were involving maxilla and 1 showed involvement of mandible.

Conclusion

FD is a rare entity affecting the jaw bones which often lead to disfigurement of face. Early detection is warranted to decrease potential complications. In addition, genetic analysis could help in understanding the occurrence in certain population.
Comparative analysis of factors and barriers intervening in research participation among romanian and international medical graduates from one romanian medical faculty across three generations
Authors: Pop Andreea Iulia , Lotrean Lucia Maria
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study focuses on the factors that encouraged engagement in research activities, as well as the barriers that restricted their involvement, until the final year of study at Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Faculty of Medicine. The main objectives of this study are to investigate potential disparities in research culture and student engagement in various research opportunities between Romanian and international medical graduates, as well as to conduct an examination of the observed patterns across various graduating years (2021–2023).

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional investigation was conducted among graduate students of the Faculty of Medicine at the Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. From 2021 to 2023, all graduate students from the Romanian and international programs of the faculty were asked to participate in the study by filling out an anonymous online questionnaire. The final sample included 572 participants, of whom 392 were students from the Romanian section and 180 were students from international programs.

Results

Motivation and personal interest drive research engagement, according to over half of graduates. For over one-third of graduates, institutional elements like financial support and education also play a major role, as does the desire to enhance their curriculum vitae. More than 25% of graduates value community influence, 70% of graduates attended medical congresses, 12–15% presented papers at medical conferences, 23% wrote medical articles, 10–15% published at least one scientific paper in medical journals, and 20% participated in medical school research projects. Comparative analysis showed that Romanian students start research earlier, attend more medical conferences, present posters, collect data for studies, and are more interested in publishing graduation thesis data in scientific journals. To encourage international students to participate in research, the study found that colleagues’ examples were more important, and both time and funds were key barriers. The research also shows that 2022 and 2023 graduates will organize more scientific conferences. According to the study, 2022 graduates began their research earlier than others.

Conclusions

To increase student engagement in research activities, medical schools should prioritize the promotion of positive factors, minimize common barriers, offer customized support and resources, encourage collaborative research activities, and facilitate cross-cultural learning.
Perceived academic anxiety and procrastination among emergency nursing students: the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation
Authors: Ghattas Amina Hemida Salem , El-Ashry Ayman Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Aim

Explore the mediating role of cognitive emotion regulation strategies used by nursing students between academic anxiety and procrastination. Design: A descriptive correlational design was used. Setting: This study was carried out in the faculty of nursing at the University of Alexandria. Sample: The participants in this study were all students enrolled in emergency nursing during the second semester of the academic year 2021–2022 and a convenience sampling of 654 nursing students. The Sobel test was used as a statistical method to determine the significance of a mediation effect by assessing whether the relationship between perceived academic anxiety and procrastination was significantly reduced when cognitive emotion regulation was included, using coefficients and standard errors from regression models to calculate the test statistic. Tools: Academic Anxiety Scale, Academic Procrastination Scale, and Cognitive Emotion Regulation Questionnaire were used to collect data.

Results

The study found that 46.5% of students reported high anxiety levels, with 40.1% perceiving moderate anxiety and only 11.3% experiencing low anxiety. Moreover, 80.4% of nursing students showed moderate academic procrastination. There is a positive correlation between procrastination and academic anxiety, with Adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies mediating this relationship, according to the Sobel test.

Conclusion

Based on the results, it can be concluded that there is a complex causal and effect relationship between academic anxiety and procrastination. Nursing students may resort to academic procrastination as a means of coping. Therefore, reducing anxiety, correcting maladaptive behaviors, and enhancing adaptive cognitive and emotional regulation strategies could effectively reduce academic procrastination.
The effect of toxic leadership on workplace deviance: the mediating effect of emotional exhaustion, and the moderating effect of organizational cynicism
Authors: Ahmed Asmaa Kamal , Atta Mohamed Hussein Ramadan , El-Monshed Ahmed Hashem , Mohamed Alia Ibrahim
Published: September 2024

Background

Toxic leadership is abusive, destructive, and detrimental to nurses, can decrease nurse morale, increase stress levels, diminish organizational performance, and cause employee emotional exhaustion. Emotional exhaustion, a key component of burnout, has been linked to decreased job performance and increased likelihood of engaging in deviant behaviors at work. Organizational cynicism, as a negative attitude or distrust towards the organization and its leadership, may exacerbate the relationship between toxic leadership and workplace deviance. This study aims to explore how toxic leadership, workplace deviance, emotional exhaustion, and organizational cynicism are interrelated in the nursing profession.

Method

A multicenter descriptive, cross-sectional research design was conducted at three university hospitals affiliated with three Egyptian governorates: Zagazig, El-Fayoum, and Alexandria. Two hundred forty-three nurses completed the Personal and Job-related Data Questionnaire, Toxic Leadership Scale, Emotional Exhaustion Scale, Workplace Deviance Scale, and Organizational Cynicism Scale. Mediation analysis using SPSS PROCESS revealed that emotional exhaustion indirectly influences the relationship between toxic leadership and workplace deviance, while hierarchical multiple regression showed that organizational cynicism moderates this relationship, with linear regression confirming the predictive impact of these variables on workplace deviance.

Results

Toxic leadership exhibits a substantial positive influence on workplace deviance (B = 16.132, p < 0.001), as does emotional exhaustion (B = 8.760, p < 0.001) and organizational cynicism (B = 5.376, p = 0.036). Furthermore, the interaction terms of toxic leadership, organizational cynicism, and emotional exhaustion are significant (B = -3.012, p = 0.036). The negative coefficient of the interaction term implies a mitigating impact, indicating that the combined presence of high toxic leadership, high emotional exhaustion, and high organizational cynicism may counterintuitively reduce workplace deviance (t = -2.110).

Conclusion

These results suggest that while toxic leadership, emotional exhaustion, and organizational cynicism each independently increase workplace deviance, their combined presence may unexpectedly reduce deviant behaviors.

Implication for nursing

These results highlight the significance of tackling toxic leadership practices and cultivating a positive organizational culture to enhance a healthier work environment and reduce instances of workplace deviance. Healthcare settings should prioritize interventions to improve leadership practices, enhance employee well-being, and cultivate a supportive organizational climate.
Combinatorial Wnt signaling landscape during brachiopod anteroposterior patterning
Authors: Vellutini Bruno C. , Martín-Durán José M. , Børve Aina , Hejnol Andreas
Published: September 2024

Background

Wnt signaling pathways play crucial roles in animal development. They establish embryonic axes, specify cell fates, and regulate tissue morphogenesis from the early embryo to organogenesis. It is becoming increasingly recognized that these distinct developmental outcomes depend upon dynamic interactions between multiple ligands, receptors, antagonists, and other pathway modulators, consolidating the view that a combinatorial “code” controls the output of Wnt signaling. However, due to the lack of comprehensive analyses of Wnt components in several animal groups, it remains unclear if specific combinations always give rise to specific outcomes, and if these combinatorial patterns are conserved throughout evolution.

Results

In this work, we investigate the combinatorial expression of Wnt signaling components during the axial patterning of the brachiopodTerebratalia transversa. We find thatT. transversahas a conserved repertoire of ligands, receptors, and antagonists. These genes are expressed throughout embryogenesis but undergo significant upregulation during axial elongation. At this stage, Frizzled domains occupy broad regions across the body while Wnt domains are narrower and distributed in partially overlapping patches; antagonists are mostly restricted to the anterior end. Based on their combinatorial expression, we identify a series of unique transcriptional subregions along the anteroposterior axis that coincide with the different morphological subdivisions of the brachiopod larval body. When comparing these data across the animal phylogeny, we find that the expression of Frizzled genes is relatively conserved, whereas the expression of Wnt genes is more variable.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the differential activation of Wnt signaling pathways may play a role in regionalizing the anteroposterior axis of brachiopod larvae. More generally, our analyses suggest that changes in the receptor context of Wnt ligands may act as a mechanism for the evolution and diversification of the metazoan body axis.
Nigeria sodium study 2023 policy meeting on dietary sodium reduction in Nigeria
Authors: Ojo Adedayo E. , Alfa Vanessa O. , Huffman Mark D. , Ojji Dike B.
Published: September 2024

Background

In line with the WHO Global Action Plan’s objective to achieve a 30% relative reduction in the mean population intake of sodium by 2025, the Nigeria Sodium Study (NaSS) team, which aimed to evaluate the implementation and scale-up of national sodium reduction programme, hosted a policy meeting May 22, 2023, in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. The aim was to deliberate on strategies for translating data on salt levels in food and dietary patterns, intending to strengthen sodium policies in Nigeria, with the ultimate goal of producing evidence-based information that can effectively guide strategies and policies for sodium reduction.

Methods

Policymakers from federal, state, and local government levels attended, as well as representatives from national and international universities and non-governmental organizations. Topics presented and discussed included retail survey data from the NaSS to inform front-of-package labeling, salt targets for packaged food, and best practices for supporting stakeholders in implementing best-practice evidence-informed policymaking.

Results

The meeting brought together 72 participants from 38 organizations, including government ministries and agencies (n = 21), international and non-governmental organizations (n = 6), and international health organizations and institutes (n = 2). Participants took decisive policy actions, including stringent national-level food system monitoring by relevant government agencies, implementing front-of-package labeling for healthier choices, establishing mandatory sodium limits for both packaged and unpackaged foods and school meals, launching diverse sector-wide educational campaigns to reduce salt use, conducting mass mobilization campaigns for awareness, and advocating for salt reduction in fast food outlets. Salt substitutes were also recognized as integral to the comprehensive sodium reduction approach.

Conclusion

To advance policy action, stakeholders should prioritize establishing robust monitoring systems, engage in public awareness campaigns, and collaborate with international organizations for insights. Exploring partnerships, addressing funding challenges, and implementing innovative strategies like low-sodium substitutes are crucial steps toward effective sodium reduction policies in Nigeria.
A comprehensive review of AAV-mediated strategies targeting microglia for therapeutic intervention of neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Zhou Livia , Wang Yafeng , Xu Yiran , Zhang Yaodong , Zhu Changlian
Published: September 2024

Neurodegenerative diseases pose a significant health burden globally, with limited treatment options available. Among the various cell types involved in the pathogenesis of these disorders, microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system, play a pivotal role. Dysregulated microglial activation contributes to neuroinflammation and neuronal damage, making them an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors have emerged as powerful tools for delivering therapeutic genes to specific cell types in the central nervous system with remarkable precision and safety. In the current review, we discuss the strategies employed to achieve selective transduction of microglia, including the use of cell-specific promoters, engineered capsids, and microRNA (miRNA) strategies. Additionally, we address the challenges and future directions in the development of AAV-based therapies targeting microglia. Overall, AAV-mediated targeting of microglia holds promise as a novel therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative diseases, offering the potential to modify disease progression and improve patient outcomes.
Need to explore metagenomics of the gut microbiomes to reduce antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Abdulkadir Muritala
Published: September 2024

The level of antimicrobial resistance in the world is increasing with an exponential burden on the global healthcare system. Quality of life is reduced due to the ineffectiveness of antimicrobials used in the treatment of infection and this called for the development of various apparatuses in fighting the menace to achieve one health. Among the several methods used to mitigate the development of resistance is the metagenomics study. This bioinformatics technique makes use of Isolated DNA or free existing DNA in an environment to detect possible genes responsible for a particular resistance and get an insight into ways to develop solutions.
Explosive regeneration and anamorphic development of legs in the house centipede Scutigera coleoptrata
Authors: Barutia Iulia , Sombke Andy
Published: September 2024

Background

Regenerating legs is advantageous for arthropods as their appendages exhibit crucial functional specializations. Many arthropods possess a ‘preferred breakage point’, where the appendage is most likely to break and where regeneration likely to occur, however, different taxa exhibit different levels of regenerative potential. Centipede appendage regeneration is categorized as 'progressive' or 'explosive'. In the later, the appendage is fully regenerated after one molt. This term was used for house centipedes that frequently lose their long legs. We chose Scutigera coleoptrata as a model to comprehensively investigate the process of leg appendotomy and regeneration as well as compare it with leg development in anamorphic instars.

Results

The trochanter exhibits a preferred breakage point. Internally, it houses a three-layered diaphragm that effectively seals the lumen. In case of leg loss, the wound is quickly sealed. The epidermis detaches from the cuticle and muscles of the coxa get compacted, giving sufficient space for the regenerating leg. A blastema forms and the leg then grows in a coiled manner. The regenerating leg is innervated and syncytial muscles form. If the leg is lost in an early intermolt phase, progression of regeneration is slower than when a specimen is closer to the next molt. Instars of house centipedes can simultaneously develop and regenerate legs. The legs develop laterally on the posterior segments under the cuticle. As opposed to regeneration, the progression of leg development always follows the same temporal pattern throughout the entire intermolt phase.

Conclusion

Several factors are of major significance in house centipede leg regeneration. First, the ease with which they lose legs: the diaphragm represents an efficient tool for appendotomy. Moreover, the functional extension of the coxa provides space for a leg to be regenerated in. Lastly, the genetic predisposition allows them to regenerate legs within one molting cycle. This “package” is unique among land arthropods, and to this degree rare in marine taxa. Furthermore, observing leg regeneration and anamorphic leg development in parallel suggest that regeneration is most likely an epiphenomenon of development, and the differences are a requirement for the novel context in which re-development occurs.
Changes in the net primary production of ecosystems across Western Europe from 2015 to 2022 in response to historic drought events
Authors: Potter Christopher , Pass Stephanie
Published: September 2024

Background

Ecosystem models are valuable tools to make climate-related assessments of change when ground-based measurements of water and carbon fluxes are not adequately detailed to realistically capture geographic variability. The Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA) is one such model based on satellite observations of monthly vegetation cover to estimate net primary production (NPP) of terrestrial ecosystems.

Results

CASA model predictions from 2015 to 2022 for Western Europe revealed several notable high and low periods in growing season NPP totals in most countries of the region. For the total land coverage of France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, 2018 was the year with the highest terrestrial plant growth, whereas 2017 and 2019 were the years with the highest summed NPP across the UK, Germany, and Croatia. For most of Western Europe, 2022 was the year predicted with the lowest summed plant growth. Annual precipitation in most countries of Western Europe gradually declined from a high average rate in 2018 to a low average precipitation level in 2022.

Conclusions

The CASA model predicted decreased growing season NPP of between − 25 and − 60% across all of Spain, southern France, and northern Italy from 2021 to 2022, and much of that plant production loss was detected in the important cropland regions of these nations.
International expert opinion on the considerations for combining vosoritide and limb surgery: a modified delphi study
Authors: Boero Silvio , Vodopiutz Julia , Maghnie Mohamad , de Bergua Josep M. , Ginebreda Ignacio , Kitoh Hiroshi , Langendörfer Micha , Leiva-Gea Antonio , Malone Jason , McClure Philip , Mindler Gabriel T. , Popkov Dmitry , Rodl Robert , Rosselli Pablo , Verdoni Fabio , Vilenskii Viktor , Huser Aaron J.
Published: September 2024

Background

Achondroplasia is the most common form of skeletal disorder with disproportionate short stature. Vosoritide is the first disease-specific, precision pharmacotherapy to increase growth velocity in children with achondroplasia. Limb surgery is a standard approach to increase height and arm span, improve proportionality and functionality, as well as correcting deformities. The aim of this study was to gain expert opinion on the combined use of vosoritide and limb surgery in children and adolescents with achondroplasia.

Methods

An international expert panel of 17 clinicians and orthopaedic surgeons was convened, and a modified Delphi process undertaken. The panel reviewed 120 statements for wording, removed any unnecessary statements, and added any that they felt were missing. There were 26 statements identified as facts that were not included in subsequent rounds of voting. A total of 97 statements were rated on a ten-point scale where 1 was ‘Completely disagree’ and 10 ‘Completely agree’. A score of ≥ 7 was identified as agreement, and ≤ 4 as disagreement. All experts who scored a statement ≤ 4 were invited to provide comments.

Results

There was 100% agreement with several statements including, “Achieve a target height, arm span or upper limb length to improve daily activities” (mean level of agreement [LoA] 9.47, range 8–10), the “Involvement of a multidisciplinary team in a specialist centre to follow up the patient” (mean LoA 9.67, range 7–10), “Planning a treatment strategy based on age and pubertal stage” (mean LoA 9.60, range 8–10), and “Identification of short- and long-term goals, based on individualised treatment planning” (mean LoA 9.27, range 7–10), among others. The sequence of a combined approach and potential impact on the physes caused disagreement, largely due to a lack of available data.

Conclusions

It is clear from the range of responses that this modified Delphi process is only the beginning of new considerations, now that a medical therapy for achondroplasia is available. Until data on a combined treatment approach are available, sharing expert opinion is a vital way of providing support and guidance to the clinical community.