bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards performance governance in healthcare: An analysis of Italian local health units
Authors: Bonomi Savignon Andrea , Costumato Lorenzo , Scalabrini Fabiana , Sanchietti Maddalena 
Published: August 2024

AbstractPurposeBouckaert and Halligan (2008) proposed four ideal types of performance management systems, ranging from a disconnected and input‐led approach (performance administration) to a model in which performance management is fully integrated with both the internal and external context of an organisation (performance governance). This article empirically analyzes performance plans issued by Italian Local Health Units (LHUs) to provide a first nationwide snapshot of the different ideal‐types of performance management that each (LHUs) have reached, in a ‘performance governance’‐oriented perspective.DesignThis paper employs a qualitative methodology based on document analysis. The model orienting the analysis features six dimensions capturing the ideal‐types characteristics and what the Italian performance regulations prescribe. Data was derived from the performance plans adopted by the Italian LHUs on the condition that they made the documentation necessary for the analysis public on their institutional website.FindingsFor a ‘performance governance’ oriented approach, two elements are considered relevant: familiarity with the analysis of stakeholders and context. In our sample, consisting of 63 performance plans out of 99 Italian LHUs, it was challenging to identify specific territorial clusters, due to significant heterogeneity. The role of strategic objectives, integration between cycles, and context analysis seems to positively influence the orientation towards a ‘performance governance’ approach.Originality/ValueThe application of Bouckaert and Halligan's ideal‐types has only been episodically investigated in the healthcare sector, mainly at the individual health unit or Region level. This article's innovative contribution consists of conducting a qualitative analysis based on a replicable taxonomy that enables further national comparisons. Furthermore, it highlights the need for public healthcare systems to engage more with external stakeholders to improve the quality of their performance governance.
Investigating the role of SARM1 in central nervous system
Authors: Wang Junjie , Shi Yuhang , Tian Jinglei , Tang Liming , Cao Fang 
Published: August 2024

AbstractSterile‐α and Toll/interleukin 1 receptor (TIR) motif‐containing protein 1 (SARM1), a key intracellular molecule that plays numerous important biological functions in the nervous system, has attracted much attention. Recent studies have shown that SARM1 plays a key role in nerve injury, degeneration, and neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, understanding the role of SARM1 in the central nervous system (CNS) will enhance our knowledge of the pathogenesis of CNS diseases and aid in the development of new therapeutic strategies. This review will explore the biological functions of SARM1 in the nervous system and its potential roles in nerve injury and disease, thus providing new directions for future research and treatment.
Extensions of open science for applied behavior analysis: Preregistration for single‐case experimental designs
Authors: Tincani Matt , Gilroy Shawn P. , Dowdy Art 
Published: August 2024

AbstractOpen science practices are designed to enhance the utility, integrity, and credibility of scientific research. This article highlights how preregistration in open science practice can be leveraged to enhance the rigor and transparency of single‐case experimental designs within an applied behavior analysis framework. We provide an overview of the benefits of preregistration including increased transparency, reduced risk of researcher bias, and improved replicability, and we review the specific contexts under which these practices most benefit the proposed framework. We discuss potential concerns with and unique considerations for preregistering experiments that use single‐case designs, with practical guidance for researchers who are seeking to preregister their studies. We present a checklist as a tool for researchers in applied behavior analysis to use for preregistration and provide recommendations for our field to strengthen the contingencies for open science practices that include preregistration.
Structure and intermolecular interactions in ionic liquid 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide and its aqueous solutions investigated by vibrational spectroscopy and quantum chemical computations
Authors: Katsyuba Sergey A. , Grimme Stefan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe recently developed efficient protocol to explicit quantum mechanical modeling of structure and IR spectra of liquids and solutions (S. A. Katsyuba, S. Spicher, T. P. Gerasimova, S. Grimme, J. Phys. Chem. B 2020, 124, 6664) is applied to ionic liquid (IL) 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide (EmimBr), its C2‐deuterated analog [Emim‐d]Br and its aqueous solutions. It is shown that the solvation strongly modifies frequencies and IR intensities of the CH/CD stretching vibrations (νCH/νCD) of the imidazolium ring. The main vibrational spectroscopic features of the neat IL are reproduced by the simulations for a cluster (EmimBr)9, in which all three imidazolium CH moieties of the solvated cation form short contacts with three Br− anions, and another two Br− anions are located on top and bottom of imidazolium ring. Cluster models of aqueous solutions reproduce the experimental vibrational frequencies of actual solutions, provided that the Br− anion of solvated contact ion pair (CIP) is situated on top of imidazolium ring, and CH/CD moieties of the latter participate in short contacts with surrounding water molecules. Both structural and spectroscopic analysis allow to interpret the short contacts CH/CD⋯Br− and CH/CD⋯OH2 as hydrogen bonds of approximately equal strength. Enthalpies of bonding of these liquid‐state H‐bonds, estimated with the use of empirical correlations, amount to ca. 1.4 kcal⋅mol−1, while the analogous estimates obtained for the gas‐phase charged species [Emim]2Br+ increase to 5.6 kcal⋅mol−1. It is shown that formation of solvent‐shared ion pair (SIP) in aqueous solution, where the counterions of IL are separated by two water molecules H‐bonded to a Br− anion, produces frequency shifts ΔνCH/CD, strongly different from the case of CIP formation. This difference can be used for IR/Raman spectroscopic differentiation of the type of solvated ion pairs of EmimBr or other related ILs.
Quantitative assessment of morphological changes in lipid droplets and lipid–mito interactions with aging in brown adipose
Authors: Crabtree Amber , Neikirk Kit , Pinette Julia A. , Whiteside Aaron , Shao Bryanna , Bedenbaugh Jessica , Vue Zer , Vang Larry , Le Han , Demirci Mert , Ahmad Taseer , Owens Trinity Celeste , Oliver Ashton , Zeleke Faben , Beasley Heather K. , Lopez Edgar Garza , Scudese Estevão , Rodman Taylor , Kabugi Kinuthia , Koh Alice , Navarro Suzanne , Lam Jacob , Kirk Ben , Mungai Margaret , Sweetwyne Mariya , Koh Ho‐Jin , Zaganjor Elma , Damo Steven M. , Gaddy Jennifer A. , Kirabo Annet , Murray Sandra A. , Cooper Anthonya , Williams Clintoria , McReynolds Melanie R. , Marshall Andrea G. , Hinton Antentor 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe physical characteristics of brown adipose tissue (BAT) are defined by the presence of multilocular lipid droplets (LDs) within the brown adipocytes and a high abundance of iron‐containing mitochondria, which give it its characteristic color. Normal mitochondrial function is, in part, regulated by organelle‐to‐organelle contacts. For example, the contact sites that mediate mitochondria–LD interactions are thought to have various physiological roles, such as the synthesis and metabolism of lipids. Aging is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, and previous studies show that there are changes in mitochondrial structure and the proteins that modulate organelle contact sites. However, how mitochondria–LD interactions change with aging has yet to be fully clarified. Therefore, we sought to define age‐related changes in LD morphology and mitochondria–lipid interactions in BAT. We examined the three‐dimensional morphology of mitochondria and LDs in young (3‐month) and aged (2‐year) murine BAT using serial block face‐scanning electron microscopy and the Amira program for segmentation, analysis, and quantification. Our analyses showed reductions in LD volume, area, and perimeter in aged samples in comparison to young samples. Additionally, we observed changes in LD appearance and type in aged samples compared to young samples. Notably, we found differences in mitochondrial interactions with LDs, which could implicate that these contacts may be important for energetics in aging. Upon further investigation, we also found changes in mitochondrial and cristae structure for the mitochondria interacting with LDs. Overall, these data define the nature of LD morphology and organelle–organelle contacts during aging and provide insight into LD contact site changes that interconnect biogerontology with mitochondrial function, metabolism, and bioactivity in aged BAT.
The process of co‐design for a new anxiety intervention for autistic children
Authors: Cullingham Tasha , Rennard Una , Creswell Cathy , Milton Damian , Buckle Karen Leneh , Godber Lucie , Gordon Kate , Larkin Michael , Green Jonathan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundMental health difficulties are common for autistic people; however, almost no interventions have been co‐designed with the autistic community. Co‐design has the potential to add important insights from lived experience into intervention design, but there are currently limited examples of how rigorously to undertake this practice. This paper details a worked model of co‐design and its process, focussed on adapting an evidenced parent‐led intervention for non‐autistic child anxiety (HYC), to meet the needs of young autistic children. The aim is to provide an example of co‐design, integrating autistic, parental, academic, clinical, experience and expertise.MethodsUsing prior literature and theory, including Experience‐Based Co‐Design, we developed an iterative and collaborative process between the research team and an expert reference group (ERG). The research team comprised autistic and non‐autistic members. The ERG included parents (autistic and non‐autistic) of autistic children with anxiety problems, autistic adults with experience of anxiety problems, and clinicians with experience supporting autistic children with anxiety problems. The ERG and research team reviewed information from qualitative research interviews with autistic children with anxiety problems and their parents along with information from clinical experience and the academic literature to reach consensus on the adapted intervention design.ResultsThe creation of a truly co‐designed intervention that includes a neurodiversity‐affirmative perspective, alongside CBT techniques. With anxiety problems experienced by autistic children being framed by combining the impacts of being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world, developmental science and well known cognitive behavioural models of child‐anxiety.ConclusionCo‐design can help to integrate multiple perspectives and result in the creation of interventions that are potentially relevant and acceptable to autistic people, their family members, and clinicians.
Curriculum reform and stereotype threat in medical education: Implications for student well‐being
Authors: Novak Rachel Tomco , Patil Shankargouda , Bailey Elizabeth , Soffe Burke , Jensen Jamie 
Published: August 2024

AbstractPurposeAltering the curriculum of a program can have negative repercussions for the student experience, including peer mentorships and interclass relationships. This study investigated the effect of curriculum reform on students’ emotional and social well‐being in a predoctoral dental program. We explored if any of these consequences could be related to stereotype threat.MethodsWe utilized a quasi‐experimental design with two different treatments, New Curriculum Treatment (New‐CT, n = 44) and Past Curriculum Treatment (Past‐CT, n = 43). Quantitative data were collected through surveys to assess students' perceptions of curriculum changes and their impacts on anxiety, confidence, and clinical performance. Qualitative data were gathered via semi‐structured interviews to explore personal experiences of stereotype threat and its implications on peer relationships and mentorship dynamics.ResultsThe findings suggest significant effects of curriculum changes on interpersonal relationships. Past‐CT viewed New‐CT as overconfident, while New‐CT felt heightened performance pressure. Thematic and interview analyses revealed deep‐rooted tensions, with New‐CT feeling mistrusted and Past‐CT resenting New‐CT's perceived accelerated competence. Stereotype threat was identified as a key factor worsening these inter‐group tensions and affecting clinical performance and relationships.ConclusionsCurriculum changes in dental education can significantly affect students' well‐being, with stereotype threat playing a critical role in these dynamics. When making changes to the structure, sequencing, or content of a program, administrators need to be aware of the potential ramifications these changes could have on students' relationships with their peers.
Modified laparoscopic transthoracic hepatectomy for upper liver segments: Technique, indications, and early outcomes
Authors: Torres Silvio M. , Prudente Matheus C. , Ribeiro Heber S. C. , Arra Dante A. S. M. , Diniz Alessandro L. , Godoy André L. , Farias Igor C. , Costa Wilson L. , Coimbra Felipe J. F. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractTransthoracic access emerges as an innovative approach to reach lesions in the upper hepatic segments, especially in patients with prior surgeries. This study evaluates transthoracic access for these resections through a retrospective single‐center analysis of demographic data, surgical techniques, and postoperative outcomes of 353 liver surgeries, revealing promising results with minimal complications. Transthoracic access and pneumoperitoneum establishment via the transthoracic route, combined with intercostal trocar insertion, offer a viable alternative for minimally invasive liver surgeries.
Past behaviour intentions, present normative beliefs, and future customer loyalty
Authors: Lampreia F. , Almeida H. , Cesário M. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractTourists are often motivated by a desire to reduce their impact on the environment and support local communities. By understanding the motivations and preferences of different types of tourists, destinations can tailor their offerings to attract and retain a diverse range of visitors. This study aims to determine if tourists who are attracted to the natural environment in a destination are more likely to engage in sustainable behaviors. It also explores whether easy access to information on sustainability influences decision‐making when traveling. The article raises the question of whether post‐pandemic tourists seek sustainable destinations due to both internal motivations and external influences. This article examines the convergence of pull‐push tourist motivations in sustainable destination preferences post‐pandemic. Using data from 12,101 Eurobarometer 2021 respondents from the TOP 12 countries with high pro‐environmental attitudes, the study found a confirmation of sustainable behaviors among European citizens. Future research directions and limitations are discussed.
Metaphysical deterrents to providers’ participation in the sharing economy: The role of peer‐to‐peer contagion
Authors: Held Ipek , Valenzuela Ana , Galli María 
Published: August 2024

AbstractDespite the rising popularity of peer‐to‐peer sharing platforms, very little empirical research has documented how consumers respond to the opportunity of renting goods to one another. This work delineates how metaphysical (besides physical) contagion beliefs, particularly when self‐identification with possessions is high, demotivates people from renting out their possessions in P2P platforms. We claim and empirically test that (1) others’ physical contact hinders willingness to share a possession due to an anticipated threat to its essence and that (2) the possession's emotional link with the owner's identity amplifies this effect. Online and laboratory experiments provide evidence for these effects in isolation from physical contamination concerns. This research extends the research on peer‐to‐peer sharing by demonstrating detrimental effects of beliefs in essence threat and a possible mitigation tactic.
Precision therapy for cancer prevention by targeting carcinogenesis
Authors: Jin Guoguo , Liu Kangdong , Guo Zhiping , Dong Zigang 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCancer represents a major global public health burden, with new cases estimated to increase from 14 million in 2012 to 24 million by 2035. Primary prevention is an effective strategy to reduce the costs associated with cancer burden. For example, measures to ban tobacco consumption have dramatically decreased lung cancer incidence and vaccination against human papillomavirus can prevent cervical cancer development. Unfortunately, the etiological factors of many cancer types are not completely clear or are difficult to actively control; therefore, the primary prevention of such cancers is not practical. In this review, we update the progress on precision therapy by targeting the whole carcinogenesis process, especially for three high‐risk groups: (1) those with chronic inflammation, (2) those with inherited germline mutations, and (3) those with precancerous lesions like polyps, gastritis, actinic keratosis or dysplasia. We believe that attenuating chronic inflammation, treating precancerous lesions, and removing high‐risk tissues harboring germline mutations are precision methods for cancer prevention.
Contemporary surgical management of pediatric non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Polites Stephanie F. , Rhee Daniel S. , Seitz Guido , Dall'Igna Patrizia , Binitie Odion , Scharschmidt Thomas , Lautz Timothy B. , Dasgupta Roshni 
Published: August 2024

AbstractNon‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (STS) comprises most STS in pediatric patients. It is a diverse set of over 30 histologic subtypes. Treatment is based on risk group determined by tumor size, grade, and the presence of metastases. Surgical resection is a cornerstone of therapy, as tumors are often resistant to chemotherapy or radiation. While patients with isolated tumors less than 5 cm may undergo upfront resection, strong consideration should be given to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy to ensure negative margins at surgical resection and optimal outcomes. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is strongly recommended for clear cell and epithelioid sarcomas. The most common metastatic site is the lung, and metastases should be resected at the end of therapy, when feasible. Unfortunately, many high‐risk patients progress on therapy, and alternative strategies including earlier metastatic control require investigation.
Documentation of critical intraoperative oncologic findings: Synoptic versus narrative operative reports for childhood cancer surgery
Authors: Abdelhafeez Abdelhafeez H. , Morrison Zachary , Halepota Huma F. , Hosfield Brian , Talbot Lindsey J. , Murphy Andrew J. , Davidoff Andrew M. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundDocumentation of intraoperative oncologic findings varies greatly across narrative operative reports (NRs). An international panel of childhood cancer experts recently developed a synoptic operative report (SR) for childhood cancer surgeries. The aim of this study was to compare the documentation of critical intraoperative findings in NRs versus SRs.MethodsA single‐center retrospective review of all surgical resections of primary solid tumors at our pediatric oncology center was conducted from June 2023 to March 2024, after an institutional SR was piloted from October 2023 onwards. Data collected included the presence or absence of six components included in standard pediatric oncology NRs. Inclusion rates were calculated as percentages for each component. Due to the small sample, the Fisher's exact test was used for all hypothesis testing.ResultsSeventy primary tumor resections were performed during the study period, as documented by 38 NRs and 32 SRs. All operative reports after October 2023 were SRs. Completeness of tumor resection and specimen naming were consistently documented in NRs (86% and 100%, respectively) and SRs (100% and 100%, respectively). The presence/absence of three components—intraoperative tumor spillage (31%), vascular involvement (31%), and lymph node sampling (26%)—were documented in fewer than a third of the NRs. Documentation of the presence/absence of locoregional spread, intraoperative tumor spillage, vascular involvement, and lymph node sampling was significantly better in SRs than in NRs.ConclusionAdoption of SRs significantly improved the documentation of critical intraoperative findings. Thus, we recommend using SRs in pediatric solid tumor surgery.
Comparison of the in situ compressive behavior of carbon fibers woven ply laminates exposed to one‐sided heat flux: Thermoplastic versus thermosetting composites
Authors: Vieille Benoit , Vacandare J. , Davin T. , Barbe Fabrice 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the influence of a combined thermal heat flux (imposed by a cone calorimeter) and a compressive loading on the deformation and damage mechanisms within quasi‐isotropic carbon fibers reinforced thermoplastic (polyetherether ketone [PEEK] and polyphenylene sulfide [PPS]) and thermosetting (epoxy) laminates. First, thermogravimetric Analyses conducted under nitrogen provide valuable information on the thermal decomposition of these materials depending on the matrix nature (580–510°C and 350°C, respectively) which is a key factor to explain the mechanical behavior under fire conditions. Second, under the same testing conditions (creep loading under a 50 kW/m2 heat flux), the time to failure is about 17 times as high (C/PEEK), twice as high (C/PPS) with respect to C/epoxy laminates. At the ply scale, the exposure of thermoplastic matrices (PEEK and PPS) to a 50 kW/m2 heat flux causes softening and thermal decomposition, facilitating the micro‐buckling of fiber bundles in matrix‐rich areas. At the laminates scale, this mechanism ultimately leads to the formation and propagation of plastic kink bands in the transverse direction. In epoxy‐based laminates, the onset of matrix pyrolysis occurs at lower temperatures (350°C) during thermal aggression, and thermal decomposition has started in all the plies of the laminates. Combined with the low ductility of the epoxy matrix, the compressive response is elastic‐brittle and results from the buckling of 0° plies outside the thermally‐damaged area.Highlights
Study on the compression of polymer composites exposed to a 50 kW/m2 heat flux.
The influence of the matrix nature (thermoplastic vs thermoset) is discussed.
Time to failure is about 17 times higher in C/PEEK compared to C/Epoxy.
Plastic kink bands propagate in thermoplastic composites at T > Tg.
C/Epoxy laminates undergo buckling outside the thermally damaged area.