bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tapping Into the Natural PZ-Independent Anticoagulant Function of ZPI to Inhibit Thrombosis With Minimal Effect on Hemostasis
Authors: Huang Xin , Swanson Richard , Wang Can , Du Xiaoping
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

The protein ZPI (Z-dependent protease inhibitor) binds to PZ (protein Z), which enables ZPI to inhibit membrane-bound FXa (activated factor X). ZPI also inhibits FXIa (activated factor XI) independently of PZ.

METHODS:

To study the PZ-independent ZPI function, we tested the in vitro and in vivo effect of disrupting the ZPI-PZ interaction by mutating ZPI Asp 293 to Ala (D293A).

RESULTS:

D293A mutation reduced PZ-dependent FXa inhibition without affecting FXIa inhibition. D293A also diminished FXIIa (activated FXII)-induced thrombin generation but reduced TF (tissue factor)-induced thrombin generation only at low TF concentrations. This suggests that D293A selectively inhibits the intrinsic pathway and the thrombin-FXI (factor XI) feedback loop that enhances low-dose TF-initiated coagulation. Wild-type and D293A ZPI both showed selectivity in inhibiting activated partial thromboplastin time but not prothrombin time. Increasing PZ in plasma enhances activated partial thromboplastin time inhibition and enables prothrombin time inhibition by wild-type but not D293A ZPI, further indicating that D293A ZPI selectively inhibits the intrinsic pathway independently of PZ. In mouse models, D293A inhibited FeCl
3
-induced occlusive carotid artery thrombosis and venous thrombosis in the inferior vena cava. Thus, PZ-independent ZPI function plays a major role in ZPI inhibition of occlusive thrombosis, and D293A ZPI is an effective antithrombotic. Importantly, administering D293A ZPI did not affect tail bleeding time and showed improved hemostasis in a saphenous vein hemostasis model as compared with wild-type ZPI.

CONCLUSIONS:

The PZ-binding defective variant of ZPI, D293A, selectively inhibits the intrinsic coagulation pathway and is a new anticoagulant with reduced bleeding risk.
Clinical Considerations for Competitive Sports Participation for Athletes With Cardiovascular Abnormalities: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology
Authors: Kim Jonathan H. , Baggish Aaron L. , Levine Benjamin D. , Ackerman Michael J. , Day Sharlene M. , Dineen Elizabeth H. , Guseh J. Sawalla , La Gerche Andre , Lampert Rachel , Martinez Matthew W. , Papadakis Michael , Phelan Dermot M. , Shafer Keri M. , Allen Larry A. , Börjesson Mats , Braverman Alan C. , Brothers Julie A. , Castelletti Silvia , Chung Eugene H. , Churchill Timothy W. , Claessen Guido , D’Ascenzi Flavio , Darden Douglas , Dean Peter N. , Dickert Neal W. , Drezner Jonathan A. , Economy Katherine E. , Eijsvogels Thijs M.H. , Emery Michael S. , Etheridge Susan P. , Gati Sabiha , Gray Belinda , Halle Martin , Harmon Kimberly G. , Hsu Jeffrey J. , Kovacs Richard J. , Krishnan Sheela , Link Mark S. , Maron Martin , Molossi Silvana , Salerno Jack C. , Shah Ankit B. , Sharma Sanjay , Singh Tamanna K. , Stewart Katie M. , Thompson Paul D. , Wasfy Meagan M. , Wilhelm Matthias
Published: February 2025

This American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology scientific statement on clinical considerations for competitive sports participation for athletes with cardiovascular abnormalities or diseases is organized into 11 distinct sections focused on sports-specific topics or disease processes that are relevant when considering the potential risks of adverse cardiovascular events, including sudden cardiac arrest, during competitive sports participation. Task forces comprising international experts in sports cardiology and the respective topics covered were assigned to each section and prepared specific clinical considerations tables for practitioners to reference. Comprehensive literature review and an emphasis on shared decision-making were integral in the writing of all clinical considerations presented.
Bleeding and New Malignancy Diagnoses After Anticoagulation for Atrial Fibrillation: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Grewal Kavi , Wang Xuesong , Austin Peter C. , Jackevicius Cynthia A. , Nardi-Admon Inbar , Ko Dennis T. , Lee Douglas S. , Thavendiranathan Paaladinesh , Fradley Michael , Dorian Paul , Abdel-Qadir Husam
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Bleeding after starting anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation (AF) may be the first sign of malignancy, especially in elderly individuals. There are no recommendations to guide investigations for malignancy after new-onset bleeding after anticoagulation for AF. Our objective was to determine the association of bleeding after starting oral anticoagulation for AF with new diagnoses of malignancy in a population-wide sample.

METHODS:

We conducted a population-based cohort study using linked administrative data sets of people ≥66 years of age who newly initiated warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants after diagnosis with AF between 2008 and 2022. Follow-up was 2 years after starting anticoagulation. We excluded patients with valvular disease, chronic dialysis, venous thromboembolism, previous cancer, or previously documented bleeding. Bleeding was identified from hospital/emergency department discharge records and physician billings, then handled as a time-varying covariate in cause-specific regression models while adjusting for baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was incident malignancy. We also determined the site of origin of the malignancy and the stage at diagnosis if indicated in the Ontario Cancer Registry. Analyses were repeated while limiting the exposure to specific bleeding sites.

RESULTS:

Among 119 480 people (mean age, 77.4 years; 52% male) who started anticoagulants, 26 037 (21.8%) had documented bleeding, and 5800 (4.9%) were diagnosed with malignancy within the next 2 years. Bleeding was associated with a higher hazard of cancer diagnosis with a hazard ratio (HR) of 4.0 (95% CI, 3.8–4.3). The HRs for any malignancy were 5.0 (95% CI, 4.6–5.5) for gastrointestinal, 5.0 (95% CI, 4.4–5.7) for genitourinary, 4.0 (95% CI, 3.5–4.6) for respiratory, 1.8 (95% CI, 1.4–2.2) for intracranial, and 1.5 (95% CI, 1.2–2.0) for nasopharyngeal bleeds. The HRs were substantially higher for cancers concordant with the bleeding site (gastrointestinal, 15.4; genitourinary, 11.8; respiratory, 10.1). Cancers were diagnosed at an earlier stage after bleeding (27.6% stage 4 after bleeding versus 31.3% without bleeding;
P
=0.029).

CONCLUSIONS:

In anticoagulated patients with AF, bleeding was strongly associated with new cancer diagnoses. Antecedent bleeding was associated with cancer diagnosis at an earlier stage. This highlights the importance of timely investigations in patients with bleeding after anticoagulation for AF, rather than attributing bleeding as an expected adverse effect.
Investigating Ottoman Press Censorship in the Eastern Mediterranean Through Conceptual History: The Peculiar Use of ‘Incident’ (ḥāditha)
Authors: Grallert Till
Published: February 2025

This paper re-evaluates the history of Ottoman censorship through the lens of conceptual history, focusing on how the periodical press of Damascus and Beirut reported incidents of violence between 1875 and 1914. I argue that well into the twentieth century, the Ottoman state had insufficient power to comprehensively enforce censorship. Instead, the press and the state were interdependent and shared the belief in a modernising project with the ever-expanding state at its core. The press largely understood its role as serving society as it moved along this path to progress and prosperity. Thus, we encounter deeply entrenched editorial tactics, epitomised by the reference to generic “incidents”, to deal with the tension between violence as a quotidian phenomenon and its very occurrence being perceived as a fundamental challenge to the social contract. Analysing the tactics used to delegitimise acts of violence and their perpetrators, the paper establishes an ontology and a topography of the discourse on violence in the late Ottoman Eastern Mediterranean.
Volatile organic compounds as potential indicators of stress in black soldier fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) larvae
Authors: Cattaneo A. , MacInnis A.E. , Meneguz M. , Dabbou S. , Tomberlin J.K.
Published: February 2025

The industrial production of insects is experiencing significant growth as a sustainable source of proteins and other valuable nutrients for use as feed in the livestock industry. However, information regarding methods for assessing insect welfare in these systems is lacking. Given the diversity of insects produced, it is important to develop specific methods for each insect model for evaluating stress responses. Doing so, while addressing animal welfare concerns could also enhance production. As a pioneering study in this context, we examined volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions from black soldier fly larvae after harvest and during a 24-h purge (i.e. evacuating gut content) under light vs no light (Dark) (i.e. stress vs no stress). Three replicates for each treatment were utilized with two trials being completed. At time 0 and 24-h after the purge period, VOCs emissions of the larvae were collected and analyzed with Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Significant differences occurred between treatments (). Despite no statistical significance with indicator species analysis, potential indicator compounds for the light treatment were 2,4-dimethyl-1-heptene, 1-cyclopentyl-ethanone and hexadecane. In contrast, potential indicator compounds from dark treatment were 3,3-dimethyl-octane, dodecane, undecane, 4-methyl-heptane, 4-methyl-decane, 2-amino-2,4,6-cycloheptatrien-1-one and 6-methyl-2-pyridinecarbaldeyde. Some of these compounds are already known as stress indicators in other systems. We conclude that purging in light could be a source of stress for insects. However, future research should investigate the detection of these compounds in association with black soldier fly larvae, to validate their value, precision, and accuracy for monitoring insect production.
Strategic Insights Into One-Touch Finishing in Soccer: Analyzing Play During Copa America 2021
Authors: Mitrotasios Michalis , Plakias Spyros , Armatas Vasilis , Kubayi Alliance , Larkin Paul
Published: February 2025

Background: Goal scoring is critical in soccer, but limited research exists on one touch finishing in open play situations. This study addresses this gap by analyzing one touch finishing in the Copa America 2021. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of one touch finishing and identify the conditions under which they are most successful in competitive soccer matches. Research Design: Observational study using video analysis of Copa America 2021 matches. Study Sample: 544 goal scoring attempts from 28 matches in the Copa America 2021 tournament. Data Collection: Video footage was coded using Hudl Sportscode software to capture relevant game indicators related to final attempts. Data Analysis: Chi-square tests examined associations between touches and various match factors. Binary logistic regression analyzed the impact of touches on goal scoring success. Results: One touch finishing significantly enhanced goal scoring chances compared to multiple touch attempts, especially when executed from within the penalty area and as part of elaborate attacks. Assists from crosses and cutbacks facilitated successful one touch finishing. Binary logistic regression confirmed one touch finishing was three times more likely to result in goals. Conclusion: One touch finishing is highly effective for goal scoring in competitive soccer. Coaches should emphasize quick, decisive actions in high-pressure zones and develop targeted training programs to enhance one touch finishing efficiency.
Determinants of Public Service Quality: An Exploratory Factor Analysis
Authors: Carvalho Filho Jorge Gesteira Vaz de , Sepulcri Lara Mendes Christ Bonella , Azzari Vitor
Published: February 2025

This study examines factors influencing public service quality. Using a quantitative, exploratory design, data were collected from 492 Brazilians via an online survey of 50 items based on prior research. Exploratory factor analysis identified seven key factors: cleanliness, motivation, audit results, public governance, scientific knowledge, physical structure, and appearance. Cleanliness emerged as the most significant. The findings suggest public services require specific improvements to enhance their perceived quality. This study contributes theoretically by offering an alternative to generic service quality models and provides practical insights for improving public management through targeted resource allocation and citizen satisfaction analysis.
A longitudinal analysis of how romantic and friendship involvement are associated with depressive symptoms
Authors: Hu Junwen M
Published: February 2025

People often value romantic relationships more than friendships, believing that the former bring greater psychological enhancement and well-being benefits. Some studies, however, have challenged this belief. Extending these studies, a secondary analysis was conducted using a four-wave longitudinal dataset that spans twenty-two years from adolescence to early midlife. Mixed effects modeling revealed that friendship involvement (i.e., being in close friendships) was associated with lower depressive symptoms. Findings regarding the association between romantic involvement (i.e., being in romantic relationships) and depressive symptoms were more nuanced. Associations were moderated by time: both involvements appeared to play more positive roles in adulthood than in adolescence, except for within-person increase in romantic involvement, which was consistently associated with increased depressive symptoms across the investigated life stages. This research confirms previous findings and extends former studies by distinguishing between- and within-person associations and extending the investigated life stages.
Prosocial Peer Affiliation as a Buffer of the Bidirectional Relationship Between Bullying Victimization and Perpetration in Early Adolescents
Authors: Seon Youngwoon , Smith-Adcock Sondra
Published: February 2025

This study focused on examining the role of prosocial peer affiliation as a potential buffer of the bidirectional relationship between bullying victimization and perpetration, using nationally representative data of U.S. early adolescents ( N = 7973) from the fourth- and fifth-grade rounds of the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 2010–2011 (ECLS-K:2011). Employing the cross-lagged panel model and latent moderated structural equations approach, results indicated that prosocial peer affiliation significantly buffered the relationship between bullying victimization and later perpetration. However, prosocial peer affiliation significantly enhanced, rather than buffered, the association between bullying perpetration and subsequent victimization. Findings suggest that antibullying interventions may focus on helping children who are bullied to be affiliated with prosocial peers to prevent subsequent bullying behavior.
Assembling Civilisational and Cultural Nation-States in East Asia: The Case of Japan
Authors: Vu Minh
Published: February 2025

Understanding nation-state formation in East Asia is often divided between what I term as ‘globalist’ and ‘localist’ explanations. The former observes that East Asian polities modelled their nation-states by replicating a catalogue of external ideologies and institutions. The latter emphasises instead pre-existing cultural elements that conditioned distinctive nation-state formation. Presupposing nation-state formation with external/internal bounded categories obscures complex interactions while hardening and reifying such boundaries. To overcome this divide, this article follows nation-state builders and observes how they imagined and actualised complex external/internal boundaries for their nation-state formation projects. More importantly, to map their dynamic interactions, I develop two specific patterns, namely ‘defining the global’ and ‘designing the local’. The former shows how nation-state builders visualised different global boundaries with corresponding nation-state identities and interests. The latter, in turn, shows how they modified local complexes to legitimate what was specifically defined. Because they were configured through these interactive patterns, emergent global and local boundaries were intertwined, rather than polarised. For empirical demonstrations, I focus on Civilisational and Cultural nation-state projects in 19th-century Japan that emerged out of the ‘defining’ and ‘designing’ patterns.
Primary Fixation and Cyclic Performance of Posterior Horn Medial Meniscus Root Repair With Knotless Adjustable Suture Anchor–Based Fixation: A Human Biomechanical Evaluation Over 100,000 Loading Cycles
Authors: Bachmaier Samuel , Krych Aaron J. , Smith Patrick A. , Nuelle Clayton W. , Müller Peter E. , Bedi Asheesh , Wijdicks Coen A.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Recent biomechanical evidence for adjustable suture anchor (ASA)–based posterior medial meniscus root (PMMR) fixation has shown promising results compared with conventional transtibial pull-out repair (TPOR). However, ASA fixation has not been evaluated in human tissue to 100,000 cycles.

Hypothesis:

ASA repair would lead to increased primary fixation strength and less cyclic displacement than conventional TPORs.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 32 human medial menisci were used, 8 of which were intact specimens and served as native controls. For the others, PMMR tears were created and repaired using 3 different techniques (n = 8 group). Two conventional PMMR repairs were prepared consisting of two No. 2 simple sutures (TSS) and two No. 2 sutures in a Mason-Allen (MA) configuration, all tied over a cortical button. The knotless ASA repair was fixed in MA with repair sutures tensioned at 120 N (MA-120). The repairs’ initial force, stiffness, and relief displacement from the tensioned state toward repair unloading (2 N) were measured after fixation. All repair constructs were loaded for 100,000 cycles, with displacement and stiffness measured, and finally were pulled to failure.

Results:

The TPORs demonstrated similar primary fixation and cyclic loading behavior except for initial cyclic displacement (cycle 10). The ASA repair provided a higher initial repair load ( P < .001) and stiffness ( P < .001) with relief displacement similar to conventional TPORs. Lower initial cyclic displacement ( P < .011; cycle 10) with overall higher repair stiffness ( P < .011) resulted in significantly lower displacement ( P < .001) throughout testing for ASA repair. Although both TPORs were completely loose after 100,000 cycles, the ASA repair achieved near-native dynamic meniscal stabilization. The TSS repair had lower overall ultimate load ( P < .001) and ultimate stiffness ( P < .023) compared with the ASA repair. All repairs had lower ultimate stiffness and loads than the native meniscus ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

The ASA repair resulted in improved primary PMMR fixation that was stiffer with less cyclic displacement than conventional TPORs and approached that of the human meniscal function after 100,000 load cycles in a cadaveric model. However, all repair techniques had lower ultimate strength than the native human PMMR.

Clinical Relevance:

Knotless ASA meniscus root fixation resulted in higher tissue compression and less displacement in a cadaveric model; however, future clinical series with surveillance imaging will define the overall significance of healing rates.
An improved kinematic calibration method of industrial robots based on double ball bar measurements
Authors: Jiang Xiaogeng , Li Mingxu , Wang Hao , Wang Yan
Published: February 2025

A novel measurement method based on the double ball bar (DBB) is proposed to improve the positioning accuracy of industrial robots. The kinematic model is established based on the Modified Denavit-Hartenberg (MD-H) method. A measurement posture of the tool center point (TCP) tilted 30° is proposed to ensure that all joints can fully move, and a spherical spiral trajectory is adopted to increase the stroke in the Z direction. This paper combines the error sensitivity analysis with the identification to reduce the dimensionality of parameter identification. A sub-space identification based on the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm is proposed, and the corresponding error model is established. The experiments are completed on the ABB IRB120 industrial robot. The experiment demonstrated that the sub-space identification method has better identification accuracy, and the full movement of all joints is conducive to improving the calibration effect. Compared with the conventional calibration method based on the DBB, the calibration effect of the proposed method is improved by 22.82%.
Demographic determinants and research productivity implications of bibliographic database use among Taiwanese researchers
Authors: Wong Fung-Mei , Lin Chiao-Min
Published: February 2025

As the role of bibliographic databases in academic research continues to expand, understanding how different demographics utilize these tools becomes increasingly important. This study examines the relationship between demographic characteristics, use patterns of bibliographic databases, and research productivity among academics in Taiwan. Based on a survey of 338 respondents, the results reveal that Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed are the most widely used databases. Most respondents frequently use databases for writing journal articles and teaching. Males spent more time using bibliographic databases than females. Younger and junior faculty members reported more frequent and longer use, while part-time staff exhibited significantly lower use. Additionally, researchers in fields like engineering used databases more extensively than those in the arts and humanities. A positive correlation was found between the frequency of database use and research productivity over the past three years. The findings highlight the critical role of bibliographic databases in academic work, with implications for institutional support and digital resource access. Limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Assessment of the Incidence of Intravenous Cannula-associated Phlebitis Among Neonates in NICU, Nehru Hospital, PGIMER Chandīgarh
Authors: Devi Usha , Agnihotri Meenakshi , Kalyan Geetanjli , Saini Shiv Sajan
Published: February 2025

Background

Neonates have small, fragile veins that are difficult to cannulate. Due to the underdeveloped skin structures and delicate veins, especially in preterm neonates, the risk of complications from venipuncture and intravenous infusions is higher. Inflammation of the vein’s tunica intima is known as phlebitis, and if it is not treated, it can cause an infection and thrombus formation. Early detection and appropriate interventions reduce the occurrence and severity of cannula-related phlebitis.

Objective

To assess the incidence of peripheral intravenous cannula-associated phlebitis among neonates.

Materials and Methods

This study was carried out among neonates with peripheral intravenous cannula admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a tertiary care hospital in North India. The participant information sheet was given to the parents of neonates with a peripheral intravenous cannula, and those who provided written consent were enrolled on the day of cannula insertion using a consecutive sampling technique. A total of 87 neonates were enrolled on the day of intravenous cannula insertion, and the participant’s information sheet was filled by interview method. Data were collected by observation method using the Visual Infusion Phlebitis (VIP) scale for phlebitis and the Premature Infant Pain Scale (PIPS) for pain. Among them, 74 neonates had stage 2 and 3 phlebitis as per the VIP scale.

Results

The incidence of peripheral intravenous cannula-associated phlebitis was 94.25% among neonates. As per the VIP scale, stage 2 phlebitis developed in more than two-thirds (65.5%) of the neonates, 19.5% had stage 3 phlebitis, and 14.9% developed stage 1 phlebitis. The pain scores were mild (0–6) in 12.2%, moderate (6–12) in 58.1%, and severe (>above 13) in 29.7% of neonates.

Conclusion

The incidence of peripheral intravenous cannula-associated phlebitis among neonates was high and associated with moderate levels of pain.
Stock Returns and Income Inequality in Emerging Economies: Asymmetric Evidence from BRICS and MIKTA
Authors: Durmaz Nazif , Zheng Jiaxin , Zhou Pingyu
Published: February 2025

This article explores the nuanced relationship between stock returns and income inequality within the emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa (BRICS) and Mexico, Indonesia, South Korea, Türkiye, and Australia (MIKTA) countries. The study investigates the interactions that potentially influence socioeconomic disparities through market dynamics. Employing a comprehensive panel data analysis, the study utilizes autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and nonlinear ARDL (NARDL) methods to assess the temporal and cross-sectional impacts of stock market fluctuations on income inequality indices, such as the Gini coefficient. The analysis reveals varied responses to stock returns in relation to income inequality across different countries. By integrating both linear and nonlinear approaches in the analysis of stock returns and income inequality, this article contributes to a more nuanced understanding of economic disparities in emerging economies. It underscores the importance of tailored economic policies to manage the impacts of market dynamics on social equity.

JEL Classification

D63, G10, O16
Comparison of the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy and trigger point dry needling in the treatment of Calcaneal Epin- A randomized trial
Authors: Arpacı Muhammed Furkan , Doğru Feyzi , Deniz Mine Arğali , Çiçek İpek Balıkçı , Baykara Rabia Aydoğan , Erdem Cumali , Taş Ferhat , Uzun Gökçe Bağcı , Köse Evren
Published: February 2025

Background

Dry needling (DN) and Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) are common in calcaneal epin treatment.

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare the effects of both treatments on proprioception, balance, pain, and functional status.

Methods

90 patients which consist of 45 patients as DN + self stretching and 45 patients as ESWT + self stretching. Patients in each group were treated 1 session per week for 4 weeks. Assessments of 15° ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion proprioception, one leg standing test (OLST), foot function index (FFI), visual analog scale (VAS) (first step, resting, activity), quality of life scale (SF-36) were performed. The outcomes were recorded at pre-treatment, post-treatment, and 4 weeks after the post-treatment.

Results

Statistically significant differences were determined in VAS (resting, first step, activity) and FFI values in both treatment methods (p < 0.05). In OLST, SF-36, and FFI evaluations, DN was statistically more effective than the ESWT method (p < 0.001). In the 15° proprioception evaluations, a significant difference was observed in the patient's ankle in both methods, while the DN method is more effective in the indicated stages of evaluation.

Conclusions

Both methods applied to epin calcanei patients were effective, but the DN method is a more effective treatment method than the ESWT method in terms of balance, proprioception, foot function, and quality of life.
Effects of neural mobilization on respiratory parameters, pain, range of motion, and neck awareness in patients with chronic neck pain: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tunç Elif , Atıcı Emine
Published: February 2025

Background

Chronic neck pain (CNP) does not have a direct effect on breathing, but movements are restricted due to pain, and kyphotic posture may make movement of the diaphragm difficult.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the effects of neural mobilization (NM) on respiratory functionss in patients with chronic neck pain.

Methods

Overall, 26 patients with CNP were randomly assigned to two groups: NM (10 sessions) or control. In these participants, pain intensity was first assessed using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Next, the active range of motion (ROM) of the cervical joint was measured. Following this, respiratory function was evaluated using spirometry, which included parameters such as Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s (FEV1), Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), and the FEV1/FVC ratio. Finally, neck awareness was assessed using the Fremantle Neck Awareness Questionnaire (FreNAQ).

Results

There was a significant difference in terms of pain intensity (p < 0.05) and range of motion of the neck joint in both groups after treatment (p < 0.05). In addition, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of respiratory function tests (p = 0.001) and neck awareness (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of our study suggest that the use of NM treatment in addition to conventional physiotherapy in patients with chronic neck pain has beneficial effects on respiratory functions, joint range of motion, pain, and neck awareness.
Speech and language therapy plus electroacupuncture or non-invasive brain stimulation for post-stroke aphasia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Lanlan , Lin Bingbing , Huang Yunshi , Wang Mengxue , Ni Jinglei , Song Jian , Huang Jia
Published: February 2025

Background

The combination of speech and language therapy (SLT) with acupuncture, electroacupuncture, and non-invasive brain stimulation is commonly used in clinical practice and scientific research for post-stroke aphasia (PSA).

Objective

This study assesses the therapeutic effectiveness of SLT-based combination therapies in improving language function in patients with PSA.

Methods

PubMed, CBM, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wan Fang Data and Chinese Scientific Journals Database (VIP) were searched through 2 December, 2024. This study included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the influence of SLT-based combination treatments and controls on language function in patients with PSA. The meta-analysis was conducted using random effects NMA.

Results

A total of 66 studies were included. The NMA assessing the effectiveness of various interventions for improving speech, repetition, and listening comprehension skills following SLT revealed that combined therapies generally outperformed SLT alone. For speaking skills, SLT + Electroacupuncture demonstrated the highest likelihood of improvement (SUCRA = 84.6). For repetition scores, SLT + Electroacupuncture was effective (SUCRA = 92.0). In listening comprehension, SLT + tDCS showed the greatest potential for improvement (SUCRA = 89.8).

Conclusions

The results revealed that any type of SLT-based combination intervention was more effective than SLT alone. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022343595.
Minority Employees as Resources: Nonlinear Relationship Between Racial Minority Employee Proportion and Unit Performance
Authors: Subramony Mahesh
Published: February 2025

This study draws upon human capital resource theory to propose and investigate a nonlinear relationship between racial minority employee proportions in work-units and unit-performance, moderated by racial composition of the customer base. Time-lagged data obtained from 331 college bookstores and their customer bases – colleges, provide evidence for a concave nonlinear relationship between racial minority employee proportion and store sales, while data from a survey panel ( n = 497) of service establishment managers support the assertion that racial minority employee proportion predict diversity-related human capital resources. Further, at high levels of this focal predictor, racial minority employee proportion is found to be negatively related to sales for colleges with low proportions of racial minority customers but does not influence sales for high-minority customer bases. I interpret these results utilizing extant theories of diversity and provide a roadmap for future research in this domain.
Cache blocking of distributed-memory parallel matrix power kernels
Authors: Lacey Dane , Alappat Christie , Lange Florian , Hager Georg , Fehske Holger , Wellein Gerhard
Published: February 2025

Sparse matrix-vector products (SpMVs) are a bottleneck in many scientific codes. Due to the heavy strain on the main memory interface from loading the sparse matrix and the possibly irregular memory access pattern, SpMV typically exhibits low arithmetic intensity. Repeating these products multiple times with the same matrix is required in many algorithms. This so-called matrix power kernel (MPK) provides an opportunity for data reuse since the same matrix data is loaded from main memory multiple times, an opportunity that has only recently been exploited successfully with the Recursive Algebraic Coloring Engine (RACE). Using RACE, one considers a graph based formulation of the SpMV and employs a level-based implementation of SpMV for the reuse of relevant matrix data. However, the underlying data dependencies have restricted the use of this concept to shared memory parallelization and thus to single compute nodes. Enabling cache blocking for distributed-memory parallelization of MPK is challenging due to the need for explicit communication and synchronization of data in neighboring levels. In this work, we propose and implement a flexible method that interleaves the cache-blocking capabilities of RACE with an MPI communication scheme that fulfills all data dependencies among processes. Compared to a “traditional” distributed-memory parallel MPK, our new distributed level-blocked MPK yields substantial speed-ups on modern Intel and AMD architectures across a wide range of sparse matrices from various scientific applications. Finally, we address a modern quantum physics problem to demonstrate the applicability of our method, achieving a speed-up of up to 4× on 832 cores of an Intel Sapphire Rapids cluster.
Robots vs. human employees’ influence on restaurant brand relationship building: An integration of role theory and stereotype theory
Authors: Wang Yao-Chin , Song Hanqun , Yang Huijun , Ma Emily
Published: February 2025

Despite the popularity of service robot integration in restaurants, it is still unclear whether robots and human employees would influence customer experience, particularly customers’ restaurant brand relationship-building experience, differently. Taking a role theory perspective and building on the stereotypes literature, this study aims to address this research gap. Further, this study tests the moderating roles of stereotypes of warmth and competence toward robots in the proposed relationships. Using two studies, we examined the main effects of restaurant roles on brand relationship building with a scenario of customers at casual dining restaurants in study 1 and we tested the moderating effects with a scenario of customers at robot-themed restaurants at a theme park in study 2. This study contributes novel theoretical insights on robot roles in branding and provides managers with implications for adopting robots.
Analysis and research on the multi-factor impact of electric vehicle charging/swapping market pricing mechanism
Authors: Ye Zihua , Zhang Hai , Li Taoyong , Han Huachun
Published: February 2025

With the transformation of the global energy structure and the increasing awareness of environmental protection, the electric vehicle (EV) market is developing rapidly, and the rational design of the pricing mechanism of the electric vehicle charging/swapping market has become critical. This study aims to analyze the multiple factors that affect pricing mechanism of the electric vehicle charging/swapping market and propose corresponding pricing strategies. The research background section outlines the rapid development of the electric vehicle industry and its strong demand for charging infrastructure. This study collects operation data on electric vehicle charging/swapping market, including location of charging stations, charging time, electricity price, user charging behavior, etc. Geographical location has a significant impact on charging prices. Charging stations in central urban areas have an average charging price of about 20% higher than suburban sites due to higher land costs. Charging time is also an important factor affecting price. During peak hours (e.g., 6 pm–9 pm), electricity prices generally rise due to concentrated charging by users and are, on average, about 30% higher than during low peak hours. User charging behavior also has a particular impact on prices. Users who opt for fast-charging services typically pay a higher fee, about 50% higher than regular charging services. In the battery swap mode, factors such as investment and operation costs, battery rental fees, and charging losses of the battery swap station will all affect the battery swap price. Through the simulation analysis of the battery swap station, it is found that when the battery cost and battery swap price change by 10%, respectively, the net life-cycle income of the battery swap station will change by about 25% and 15%, showing that the battery cost and battery swap price are the key factors affecting the economic benefits of the battery swap station.
What is the problem represented to be? Applying poststructural policy analysis to examine Austrian German language support legislation
Authors: Woltran Flora
Published: February 2025

The Austrian education policy employs a segregated model of language support, ostensibly to provide equitable opportunities for language learners. Prior research has demonstrated that this model has not fully achieved its objective of equalizing opportunities, as students persistently confront many academic and socio-emotional challenges. To gain a more profound comprehension of the intricate nuances associated with equity and opportunity, this article deploys the “What’s the Problem Represented to be?” approach developed by Bacchi (2009). Serving as a valuable tool for researchers, policymakers, and advocates working towards social change, the article delves into the role of governments in the construction of policy problems and the legitimations associated with segregated language support in Austria. The research thus seeks to challenge the idea that policies are designed to address existing problems. Conversely, it argues that policies are themselves responsible for creating the very problems they are designed to address. The findings indicate the presence of deeply entrenched assumptions and presuppositions that are fundamentally shaped by nationalist ideologies, which persist as a persistent legacy of colonialist and racist attitudes. The discussion calls for a radical transformation of the prevailing approach to policy-making, challenging the status quo and exploring alternative avenues for addressing societal responsibilities.
Nursing Brain Drain, How Do We Retain Our Internationally Qualified Nurses: A Close Examination of Push and Pull Factors
Authors: Ram Felix Simon Francis , McDonald Elissa Mary , Kuttan Angelina , Sudarsan Indu
Published: February 2025

Recruitment of internationally qualified nurses (IQN) may be an effective way to address acute nursing shortages in New Zealand (NZ). However, the difficulty in retaining IQNs long-term requires serious consideration. We employed a survey design to identify factors that influence IQNs to leave NZ. 1,782 IQNs who graduated from a Competency Assessment Programme over 11 years (2012 to 2023) were invited to participate in the online survey. Participants reported a wide range of factors to migrate including unsupportive workplace culture, lack of professional development opportunities, financial motivators, personal, and social factors including better quality of life. Nearly 50% of IQNs either had left or were planning on leaving NZ soon after obtaining their registration, with an average length of stay for all IQNs of just over 30 months, with nearly 100% of all IQNs leaving NZ within that time. This is the first study that provides policymakers with valuable insights of IQNs recruitment and retention including IQN reasons for migration. There is a need for policymakers and employers to urgently prioritize the development of local nurses instead of depending on IQNs who are difficult to retain long term. Furthermore, as current data indicates a surplus of IQNs in NZ it is crucial for potential IQNs to carefully consider the current oversupply before undertaking the costly, lengthy, and complex process of obtaining registration. Policymakers, employers, educators, and regulators need to work together to develop a robust nursing workforce plan to address the current surplus and include accurate forecasting of future workforce needs.
Endovascular flow diversion reconstruction of petrocervical dissections with the proximal anchoring technique: Experience in 31 consecutive cases
Authors: Campos Jessica K. , Meyer Benjamen M. , Laghari Fahad J. , Zarrin David A. , Khan Muhammad W. , de Beaufort Jonathan Collard , Amin Gizal , Ramesh Ashish , Beaty Narlin B. , Bender Matthew T. , Suzuki Shuichi , Colby Geoffrey P. , Coon Alexander L.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Flow diverting stents (FDS) are routinely used to reconstruct the arteries of the head and neck. When placed into the mobile cervical internal carotid artery (cICA) segment, the FDS runs the risk of post-procedure stent migration and proximal intimal hyperplasia reaction from physiologic movement of the neck. We report our experience using a novel proximal anchoring technique during endovascular flow reconstruction of complex petrocervical dissections to prevent this potentially deleterious result.

Methods

We reviewed a prospectively maintained IRB-approved institutional database of the senior authors to identify cases of FDS treatment in the mobile petrocervical segments which had the proximal FDS “anchored” with a nitinol stent.

Results

The proximal anchoring technique was successfully performed in the mobile cervical segment in a total of 31 cases over the study period. Each case involved a complex ICA dissection with 68% (n = 21) having an accompanying pseudoaneurysm. Fifty-two percent (n = 16) were female. Surpass Streamline and Evolve FDS were utilized in all cases. An average of 2.2 ± 0.1 FDS devices were utilized (range 2-4 FDS), with each case utilizing a laser-cut nitinol carotid stent as the proximal anchor. The average stent diameter was 5.64 ± 0.2 mm (range 4-8 mm) and length of 30.1 ± 1.5 mm (range 20-60 mm). On last follow-up angiography, there were no instances of stent migration or proximal neointimal hyperplasia.

Conclusion

Utilization of the proximal anchoring technique on FDS constructs in the mobile cICA may provide additional protection from post-procedure stent migration and intimal reaction attributed to patient neck movement resulting in augmentation of successful healing.
Optimizing the utilization of interregional input-output table in measuring the distribution of value-added exports between regions in the regional value chain scheme: Application to the food and beverage industry
Authors: Oktora Siskarossa Ika , Satrio Roni Anom , Muhtasib Nora
Published: February 2025

The production process of an industry is no longer within a single area but comprises a synergy of multiple countries, a phenomenon measured by the Global Value Chain (GVC). The GVC enables the assessment of the distribution of value-added across various industries in different countries at a macro level with a focus on those with unimplemented regional-scale assessments (Regional Value Chain/RVC). The importance of RVC, particularly in supporting and strengthening GVC, can be emphasized using the Interregional Input-Output Table (IRIO). The RVC approach is used to understand the distribution of value-added generated by the industrial sector in Indonesia. Therefore, this study examines the relationship between the food and beverage industry in Indonesia's mainstay industry for export activities. By looking backward and forward participation using the 2016 Indonesian IRIO Table, it's possible to trace the origin and destination of value-added in the food and beverage industry across different regions. The results show that provinces with high export Foreign Value-Added (FVA) also have significant Domestic Value-Added (DVA). The food and beverage industry is instrumental in creating value-added in these provinces due to the dominant role in backward and forward participation. Furthermore, two provinces, Jawa Timur and Sulawesi Selatan, are the central hubs for the food and beverage industry in the Western and Eastern Regions of Indonesia, respectively.
‘Straight to the Source’: How Teens’ Experiences Shape Their Understanding of and Expectations for News
Authors: de los Santos Theresa , Smith Elizabeth , Johnson Jillian
Published: February 2025

This study of U.S. youth provides insight into the knowledge of the journalistic process they have in place and how journalistic information is prioritized in their lives. Teen participants based in one area of the country were observed in a hands-on, news-based simulation and then interviewed. Results reveal that, while these teen participants demonstrated general weaknesses in the skills of attribution and updating information when producing traditional broadcast news, these skills were almost entirely disregarded in the context of news they published on social media. The youth participants who have grown up with social media, expressed a general anxiety that all information (journalistic and non-journalistic) can be easily altered or distorted and weakness in coping with information overload. Still, the participants hold high expectations for the function of journalism, but express dissatisfaction with actual news content presentations and delivery. Takeaways for news literacy interventions and news presentations are discussed.