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This study presents a comprehensive approach to vibrational analysis in a size-dependent, orthotropic thermo-piezo-photo-electric semiconductor half-space under Moore–Gibson–Thompson (MGT) photo-thermoelasticity theory with memory-dependent derivatives. Following Eringen's nonlocal elasticity theory, the governing equations for the considered material are derived. The normal mode technique is applied to investigate the photothermal excitation process. Focusing on the interface adjacent to the vacuum, the study considers plasma, thermal, and mechanical stress boundary conditions to determine fundamental physical quantities. Through a detailed exploration, this research examines the impact of various thermo-piezo-photo-electric models, time, nonlocal parameters, and spatial coordinates on different physical quantities. The effects are meticulously analyzed and visually represented through graphical illustrations. While the literature survey reveals numerous studies on vibrational analysis in thermo-piezo-photo-electric semiconductor mediums under different thermoelasticity theories, to the best of the authors' knowledge, no research emphasizing vibrational analysis in a size-dependent thermo-piezo-photo-electric semiconductor medium has been conducted. Moreover, the effect of memory-dependent MGT photo-thermoelasticity theory on a size-dependent thermo-piezo-photo-electric semiconductor half-space has not been illuminated until now, significantly defining the novelty of the conducted research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This manuscript examines the effects of memory-dependent and fractional-order derivatives on a novel generalized piezo-thermo-elastic semiconductor model. The medium is homogenous and orthotropic, subjected to photo-thermal excitation. The governing equations include fractional-order parameters, relaxation time, time delay, and kernel function tailored to specific problem requirements. Normal mode method use to solve the equations, yielding analytical expressions. Graphical representations show physical field distribution across various fractional-order parameters, kernel functions, time delay, and frequency values. This study has the potential to advance precise model development and future simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses the triple-phase lag model to investigate how higher-order fractional order and memory-dependent derivatives affect reflection at the free surface of an orthotropic piezo-thermoelastic medium. The performance of both kinds of derivatives is studied using the normal mode analysis technique. Four different types of coupled reflected plane waves are identified and explore the impact of various parameters, fractional order parameter, kernel function, the higher-order time differential fractional, and memory-dependent heat conduction parameters on energy distribution with respect to the angle of incidence. The results are presented graphically, providing numerical data for reflected waves, amplitude, and energy ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the triple-phase lag model, comparison studies are conducted between the memory-dependent derivative and fractional order derivative on the propagation of plane waves in a half-space of initially stressed transversely isotropic piezothermoelastic material. The coupled governing equations of the considered model involving relaxation time, time delay, fractional order parameter, and kernel function are selected according to specific problems and solved using the normal mode analysis technique and obtaining the analytical expression. The non-dimensional temperature, displacement, electrical displacements, and stresses at different values of the fractional order parameter and time delay factor are obtained graphically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Venetoclax (Ven) plus hypomethylating agents are considered standard-of-care for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) judged ineligible for intensive chemotherapy (IC). Real-world studies complement clinical trials, since patterns of patient selection, treatment-exposure and post-remission management may vary. This prospective observational multi-center study included 209 newly diagnosed IC-ineligible patients with a median age 75 years (interquartile range, 71-81 years). A high proportion of patients had secondary AML (53.7%), adverse-risk disease (35.3%), and complex karyotype (15.5%). At a median follow-up of 22.5 months (range 0.1-43), median overall-survival (mOS) was 11.7 months (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 9.9,15.4). Composite complete remission (CRc) was achieved in 65.2% (CR 44.4%; CRi 20.8%). Of responding patients, 21.1% underwent stem-cell transplantation. When stratified based on VIALE-A original eligibility criteria, mOS was 17.8 months for patients meeting eligibility criteria and 10.7 months for patients who did not (p=0.027). AML ontogeny (p=0.024), reduced kidney function (p=0.001), Charlson co-morbidity index (CCI; p=0.0017), ELN-risk (p=0.01) and body-mass index (p=0.0298) were significantly associated with OS. Multivariant Cox-regression analysis confirmed independent association of OS with AML ontogeny (p=0.012), CCI (p=0.033) and ELN-risk (p=0.019). Patients enrolled in the latter half of the study period demonstrated improved OS compared to those enrolled earlier (p=0.026). This prospective observational study highlights outcomes of patient subgroups, including those excluded from registration trials. (clinicaltrials.gov: #NCT03987958)., (Copyright © 2024 American Society of Hematology.)

Medical devices that contact non-intact skin or mucous membranes are considered semi-critical devices and must undergo high-level disinfection (HLD) before use. Studies have identified several potential limitations of UV-C for HLD of semi-critical medical devices, including a lack of data demonstrating that UV-C irradiance can be uniformly applied to complex surfaces that contain grooves, notches and imperfections. This study focused on ultrasound probes as commonly used medical devices to show the distribution of irradiance on these surfaces. An endocavity bi-plane probe and curved array surface probe with typical surface topology were 3D scanned and modelled and an array of UV-C light-emitting diodes (LEDs) irradiating the probe surfaces was simulated (simulated wavelength: 275nm [peak], power output: 50mW). The simulated chamber wall material was equivalent to highly reflective polished aluminum with a defined reflectance of 79% at 275nm. To calculate the cycle time required to achieve HLD on probe surfaces, a minimum effective dosage of 1500mJ/cm2 based on published research was used. The simulated irradiance distribution showed a large difference between the points of highest and lowest irradiance (maximum/minimum ratio: 14.70 for the surface probe and 12.74 for the endocavity probe). In addition, the presence of shadowing effects adjacent to notches or grooves was evident. By applying an effective UV-C dose from the literature, cycle times of up to 25 minutes would be required to achieve HLD in the minimally irradiated areas of the probes used in the simulation. These findings highlight the need to demonstrate the efficacy of UV-C radiation against worst case organisms in the areas of lowest irradiance on medical devices to provide assurance these devices are reliably high level disinfected., Competing Interests: LY, LC, MB, LYT, GS and JB are employees of Nanosonics Ltd. LYT, GS and JB hold stock in Nanosonics Ltd. All authors are employed by a commercial company: Nanosonics Ltd. This does not alter our adherence to PLOS ONE policies on sharing data and materials., (Copyright: © 2024 Yeoh et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

This study introduces a two-dimensional thermoelastic model for a homogeneous isotropic half-space with double porosity underlying an inviscid liquid half-space featuring temperature variations. The model incorporates the three-phase lag (TPL) heat equation and reveals that in the solid half-space, four coupled longitudinal waves intertwine with one uncoupled transverse wave, while one mechanical wave ripples through the liquid half-space. The investigation highlights dispersion, attenuation, and other effects affected by the thermal properties and the presence of voids. Using plane wave solutions and boundary conditions at the interface, a concise expression for the frequency equation of the model has been derived. Furthermore, the magnitudes of the displacements in the solid half-space and liquid half-spaces, the temperature change, and the volume fractional fields at the interface have been precisely determined. In the graphical section, computer-simulated results of various wave profiles for magnesium crystal material have been generated for different heat conduction thermoelastic models. The study's implications span various fields, such as hydrology, engineering, ultrasonics, navigation, and electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common genetic blood disorder in the United States, with over 100,000 people suffering from this debilitating disease. SCD is caused by abnormal hemoglobin (Hb) variants that interfere with normal red blood cell (RBC) function. Research on SCD has led to the development and approval of several new SCD therapies in recent years. The recent FDA-approved novel gene therapies are potentially curative, giving patients an additional option besides a hematopoietic bone marrow transplant. Despite the promise of existing therapies, questions remain regarding their long-term pharmacological effects on adults and children. These questions, along with the exorbitant cost of the new gene therapies, justify additional research into more effective therapeutic options. Continual research in this field focuses on not only developing cheaper, more effective cures/treatments but also investigating the physiological effects of the current therapies on SCD patients, particularly on the brain and kidneys. In this article, we undertake a comprehensive review of ongoing clinical trials with completion dates in 2024 or later. Our exploration provides insights into the landscape of current therapeutics and emerging novel therapies designed to combat and potentially eradicate SCD, including the latest FDA-approved gene therapies.

In this narrative, a general practitioner and psychotherapist trained in anthroposophic medicine presents the narrative and treatment of a 60-year-old woman who experienced the horrors of the "Dark Sabbath" attack in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The patient's story is narrated by the physician, who shares his multi-disciplinary and multi-modal anthroposophic medicine approach to address the patient's acute stress disorder-related symptoms and concerns., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Objective: Vaccination against preventable infections is important for the management of rheumatic diseases (RDs). This study assessed the vaccination coverage and predictors among patients with RDs using real-world data from Israel., Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study, based on a Maccabi Healthcare Services database, included adult patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), as of April 30, 2019. Age-specific vaccination coverage for influenza (past year), pneumococcal (23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine [PPSV23] and/or 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine [PCV13]), and live-attenuated herpes zoster (HZ) vaccines (past 5 years) was reported. Logistic regression was used to investigate predictors of vaccination., Results: The study included 14,528 patients (RA: n = 6932; PsA: n = 4395; SLE: n = 1951; > 1 condition: n = 1250). Influenza vaccine coverage among patients with RA, PsA, and SLE was 45.1%, 36.2%, and 33.7%, respectively. For PPSV23, corresponding rates were 19.6%, 16.2%, and 12.6%, respectively. In the elderly population (≥ 65 years), 63.2% had influenza vaccine in the past year and 83.4% had a PPSV23 vaccine in the past 5 years or at age ≥ 65. For PCV13 and HZ, coverage in the overall study population was low at 4.8% and 3.6%, respectively. Central residence and treatment with corticosteroids and biologic or targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs within the past 5 years were significant predictors of vaccination coverage across all vaccines ( P < 0.05). Other predictors varied by vaccine, including female sex (influenza, PPSV23, PCV13), age (influenza, PPSV23), chronic comorbidities (influenza, PPSV23, PCV13), shorter disease duration (PCV13), and high socioeconomic status (PCV13, HZ)., Conclusion: This study demonstrated suboptimal coverage of influenza, pneumococcal, and HZ vaccination in patients with RA, PsA, and SLE, in particular among younger adults in Israel., (Copyright © 2024 by the Journal of Rheumatology.)

This research article presents an analysis of the behavior of an initially stressed monoclinic piezothermoelastic half-space based on memory-dependent three-phase lags heat transfer law (MPS) underlying a thermoelastic half-space (TS) with subject to the hyperbolic two-temperature (H2T), classical two-temperature (C2T), and without two-temperature (W2T) models. By applying the normal mode approach, calculate the amplitude ratios and further utilize them to obtain the waves' energy ratios and interaction energy. The effect of memory-dependent derivatives (MDD), initial stresses, various kernel functions, and two temperature factors on the variation of energy ratios with incidence angle are graphically shown. The findings of this study have the potential to optimize material design, enhance seismic imaging techniques, improve thermal management in machinery, develop renewable energy systems, and facilitate materials characterization across diverse industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite their prevalence, diversity initiatives do not necessarily motivate employees to facilitate diversity goals. We advance understanding of diversity rhetoric—defined as how leaders talk about diversity and its effects—as a tool for motivating employees to foster diversity and inclusion. Prior work has investigated rhetoric that emphasizes diversity in organizations is necessarily beneficial (value-in-diversity rhetoric), which is puzzling given the reality that diversity can have positive or negative consequences. We introduce the construct of contingent-diversity rhetoric, which emphasizes that diversity is beneficial if its challenges are overcome, and thus captures the reality of diversity's effects. Drawing from the psychology of the self, we theorize that leaders use contingent-diversity rhetoric less commonly than value-in-diversity rhetoric, due to fear of appearing prejudiced. Drawing from the psychology of employee motivation, we theorize that contingent-diversity rhetoric results in more diversity effort among employees than value-in-diversity rhetoric does because contingent rhetoric increases perceptions that diversity goals are difficult to achieve. Four multimethod studies support the proposed descriptive–prescriptive paradox: contingent-diversity rhetoric is descriptively less common, but prescriptively more effective, than value-in-diversity rhetoric. Our research advances theory on fostering diversity and inclusion in organizations and suggests that leaders can increase employees' diversity effort by changing the way they talk about diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this exchange, we respond to David A. Waldman and Jennifer L. Sparr's (2023; henceforth referred to as W&S) assertion that critical race theory (CRT) is incompatible with the goal of diversity and unity. Other responses in this exchange have noted that W&S's critique of CRT is based on opinion pieces that misrepresent CRT rather than on CRT scholarship. We extend those rebuttals by elaborating what CRT positively contributes to diversity strategies and how it is relevant to future research. We first discuss the core tenets of CRT, which W&S do not critique in their paper. We then explain why, contrary to W&S's article, paradox theory and positive organizational behavior (POB) do not provide a rationale for rejecting CRT in diversity management. Specifically, we explain why a paradox perspective requires learning from CRT, and how POB prevents examination of negatively oriented behaviors like discrimination and racism that make diversity management challenging and paradoxical. We explain why the aforementioned limitations make W&S's recommendations inappropriate for organizations that pursue diversity management for equity and inclusion (DE&I) not just for unity. We conclude with a discussion of how CRT can inform evidence-based management of DE&I and guide future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut epithelial barrier disruption is commonly observed in Western diseases like diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Enhanced epithelial permeability triggers inflammatory responses and gut microbiota dysbiosis. Reduced bacterial diversity in IBD affects gut microbiota metabolism, altering microbial products such as secondary bile acids (BAs), which potentially play a role in gut barrier regulation and immunity. Dietary fibers such as pectin may substitute effects of these BAs. The study examines transepithelial electrical resistance of gut epithelial T84 cells and the gene expression of tight junctions after exposure to (un)sulfated secondary BAs. This is compared to the impact of the dietary fiber pectin with different degrees of methylation (DM) and blockiness (DB), with disruption induced by calcium ionophore A23187 under both normal and hyperglycemic conditions. Unsulfated lithocholic acid (LCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) show a stronger rescuing effect, particularly evident under 20 mM glucose levels. DM19 with high DB (HB) and DM43HB pectin exhibit rescuing effects under both glucose conditions. Notably, DM19HB and DM43HB display higher rescue effects under 20 mM glucose compared to 5 mM glucose. The study demonstrates that specific pectins such as DM19HB and DM43HB may serve as alternatives for preventing barrier disruption in the case of disturbed DCA metabolism., (© 2024 The Author(s). Molecular Nutrition & Food Research published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH.)

Background: Burnout and secondary traumatic stress (STS) are problems for the workforce supporting people with developmental disabilities. This study investigated hope as a potential protective resource for burnout and STS among the developmental disability services workforce., Method: One hundred and fifty-two non-supervisor caseworkers from a state agency, developmental disabilities division were recruited to participate in an anonymous web-based survey., Results: The analyses showed that hope was negatively associated with the three dimensions of STS (intrusion, avoidance, and arousal) and burnout. Controlling for tenure in the workforce and STS, the results of the hierarchical regression analyses showed that hope accounted for a significant incremental variance to burnout., Conclusion: These findings provide support for emerging literature showing hope as a protective resource to workforce burnout., (© 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Objectives: Recent studies have associated subarticular trabecular bone distribution in the extant hominid first metacarpal (Mc1) with observed thumb use, to infer fossil hominin thumb use. Here, we analyze the entire Mc1 to test for interspecific differences in: (1) the absolute volume of trabecular volume fraction, (2) the distribution of the deeper trabecular network, and (3) the distribution of trabeculae in the medullary cavity, especially beneath the Mc1 disto-radial flange., Materials and Methods: Trabecular bone was imaged using micro-computed tomography in a sample of Homo sapiens (n = 11), Pan paniscus (n = 10), Pan troglodytes (n = 11), Gorilla gorilla (n = 10) and Pongo sp., (n = 7). Using Canonical Holistic Morphometric Analysis (cHMA), we tested for interspecific differences in the trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and its relative distribution (rBV/TV) throughout the Mc1, including within the head, medullary cavity, and base., Results: P. paniscus had the highest, and H. sapiens the lowest, BV/TV relative to other species. rBV/TV distribution statistically distinguished the radial concentrations and lack of medullary trabecular bone in the H. sapiens Mc1 from all other hominids. H. sapiens and, to a lesser extent, G. gorilla also had a significantly higher trabecular volume beneath the disto-radial flange relative to other hominids., Discussion: These results are consistent with differences in observed thumb use in these species and may also reflect systemic differences in bone volume fraction. The trabecular bone extension into the medullary cavity and concentrations beneath the disto-radial flange may represent crucial biomechanical signals that will aid in the inference of fossil hominin thumb use., (© 2023 The Authors. American Journal of Biological Anthropology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objectives: This research examines whether the distribution of trabecular bone in the proximal capitates of extant hominids, as well as several fossil hominin taxa, is associated with the oblique path of the midcarpal joint known as the dart-thrower's motion (DTM)., Materials and Methods: We analyzed proximal capitates from extant (Pongo n = 12; Gorilla n = 11; Pan n = 10; fossil and recent Homo sapiens n = 29) and extinct (Australopithecus sediba n = 2; Homo naledi n = 1; Homo floresiensis n = 2; Neandertals n = 3) hominids using a new canonical holistic morphometric analysis, which quantifies and visualizes the distribution of trabecular bone using relative bone volume as a fraction of total volume (rBV/TV)., Results: Homo sapiens and Neandertals had a continuous band of high rBV/TV that extended across the scaphoid, lunate, and hamate subarticular regions, but other fossil hominins and extant great apes did not. A. sediba expressed a distinct combination of human-like and Pan-like rBV/TV distribution. Both H. floresiensis and H. naledi had high rBV/TV on the ulnar-side of the capitate but low rBV/TV on the radial-side., Conclusion: The proximal capitates of H. sapiens and Neandertals share a distinctive distribution of trabecular bone that suggests that these two species of Homo regularly load(ed) their midcarpal joints along the full extent of the oblique path of the DTM. The observed pattern in A. sediba suggests that human-like stress at the capito-scaphoid articular surface was combined with Pan-like wrist postures, whereas the patterns in H. floresiensis and H. naledi suggest their midcarpal joints were loaded differently from that of H. sapiens and Neandertals., (© 2023 The Authors. American Journal of Biological Anthropology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Sesamoid bones are ossified structures that are embedded in tendons near articulation. They consist of an inner trabecular bone architecture surrounded by a thin cortical shell. While the formation of sesamoid bones is probably mainly controlled by genetic factors, the proper development and mineralization of a sesamoid bone depends also on mechanical stimulation. While most sesamoid bones are not loaded directly by other bones during locomotion, they still experience forces directed from the tendon in which they are embedded. In cases when the sesamoid bone is experiencing forces only from a single tendon, such as the cyamella in the rabbit, this may give us a tool to study bone functional adaptation in a relatively simple loading setting. This study investigates the internal trabecular architecture of the popliteal sesamoid bone (cyamellae) in New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Five hind limbs of NZW rabbits were micro-computed tomography scanned and the cortical and trabecular architectures of the cyamellae were evaluated. The results revealed that similar to the patella, the cyamella has a thin cortex and a high trabecular bone volume fraction (BV/TV), which is derived mostly from the high trabecular thickness (Tb.Th). Trabecular BV/TV and Tb.Th were not distributed homogeneously, but they were lower at the periphery and higher closer to the proximal and middle of the cyamella, near the musculotendinous junction. The results also demonstrated that trabeculae tend to align along two recognizable orientations, one with the direction of tensile stresses, in line with the popliteal tendon, and the second bridging the narrow space between the cranial and caudal cortical faces of the bone., (© 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Currently, there is a need to develop digital competencies already because they are included in the new curriculum. This article explores the field of augmented reality (AR) and its educational potential to bolster digital literacy in primary education. The core objective is to scrutinize the suitable use of AR-integrated mobile applications in primary schooling, spotlighting widely adopted apps and their practical applications. The article underscores digital literacy as a key competence for children's self-directed future learning. In our research we used a combination of qualitative and quantitative research approaches. It seeks to identify the impacts and benefits of AR in primary school settings. In a natural didactic context, it is conducted as action research. The methodology includes direct observation of pupils engaging with the AR app Quiver during educational tasks, complemented by discussions with their teacher as a focus group. Additionally, the study gathers insights from parents via questionnaires based on their perceptions of AR in education. The analysis of the interview data utilizes the open coding technique to interpret the findings. The relevance of the research was confirmed by the consistency of results when transitioning from onsite to online learning environments. The study showed that AR engagement helped to increase the digital literacy of the participating pupils, showing high levels of engagement, motivation and collaborative communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the feasibility of transspine focused ultrasound using simulation-based phase corrections from a CT-derived ray acoustics model. Approach. Bilateral transspine focusing was performed in ex vivo human vertebrae with a spine-specific ultrasound array. Ray acoustics-derived phase correction was compared to geometric focusing and a hydrophone-corrected gold standard. Planar hydrophone scans were recorded in the spinal canal and three metrics were calculated: target pressure, coronal and sagittal focal shift, and coronal and sagittal Sørensen–Dice similarity to the free-field. Post hoc analysis was performed in silico to assess the impact of windows between vertebrae on focal shift. Main results. Hydrophone correction reduced mean sagittal plane shift from 1.74 ± 0.82 mm to 1.40 ± 0.82 mm and mean coronal plane shift from 1.07 ± 0.63 mm to 0.54 ± 0.49 mm. Ray acoustics correction reduced mean sagittal plane and coronal plane shift to 1.63 ± 0.83 mm and 0.83 ± 0.60 mm, respectively. Hydrophone correction increased mean sagittal similarity from 0.48 ± 0.22 to 0.68 ± 0.19 and mean coronal similarity from 0.48 ± 0.23 to 0.70 ± 0.19. Ray acoustics correction increased mean sagittal and coronal similarity to 0.53 ± 0.25 and 0.55 ± 0.26, respectively. Target pressure was relatively unchanged across beamforming methods. In silico analysis found that, for some targets, unoccluded paths may have increased focal shift. Significance. Gold standard phase correction significantly reduced coronal shift and significantly increased sagittal and coronal Sørensen–Dice similarity (p < 0.05). Ray acoustics-derived phase correction reduced sagittal and coronal shift and increased sagittal and coronal similarity but did not achieve statistical significance. Across beamforming methods, mean focal shift was comparable to MRI resolution, suggesting that transspine focusing is possible with minimal correction in favourable targets. Future work will explore the mitigation of acoustic windows with anti-focus control points. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astrocytes are specialized glial cell types of the central nervous system (CNS) with remarkably high abundance, morphological and functional diversity. Astrocytes maintain neural metabolic support, synapse regulation, blood-brain barrier integrity and immunological homeostasis through intricate interactions with other cells, including neurons, microglia, pericytes and lymphocytes. Due to their extensive intercellular crosstalks, astrocytes are also implicated in the pathogenesis of CNS disorders, such as ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Despite the critical importance of astrocytes in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation are recognized, the lack of suitable in vitro systems limits their availability for modeling human brain pathologies. Here, we report the time-efficient, reproducible generation of astrocytes from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Our hiPSC-derived astrocytes expressed characteristic astrocyte markers, such as GFAP, S100b, ALDH1L1 and AQP4. Furthermore, hiPSC-derived astrocytes displayed spontaneous calcium transients and responded to inflammatory stimuli by the secretion of type A1 and type A2 astrocyte-related cytokines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Despite the increasing heterogeneity of the organizational workforce – as a consequence of major worldwide socioeconomic trends – a considerable number of studies shows how traditionally underrepresented groups still face significant barriers in entering the labor market. Literature has highlighted several grounds for discrimination: ethnicity, age, gender, religion, social status, sexual orientation, etc., and while some of these are extensively investigated (e.g. ethnicity), other fields are still gaining evidence (e.g. social status). Design/methodology/approach: In the current paper, we aim at providing a review of current experimental studies aimed at detecting discrimination in hiring and the possible interventions to reduce bias. Then, we offer a point of reflection for policymaking, analyzing whether such issue should be addressed at the level of the individual (i-frame) or rather at a more systemic level (s-frame). Findings: The paper provides substantial evidence that discrimination in hiring still exists, despite the never greater pressure for firms' social sustainability. Further, existing interventions appear to have an overall limited impact in reducing bias. Hence, we suggest that the issue of discrimination in hiring should be tackled at a systemic level, by means of s-frame interventions. Originality/value: The paper offers a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon by systematizing the existing body of knowledge deriving from empirical research and offering a broad perspective onto policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As part of a growing emphasis on "STEM," engineering has gained prominence in precollege education. In response to that trend, an emerging area of educational research focuses on the "Nature of Engineering" (NOE), a collection of ideas about what engineering is, what engineers do, and how engineering is related to science and society. In recent years, multiple NOE frameworks have been developed, along with associated NOE instruments. Thus far, NOE research has often taken cues and utilized concepts from the extensive body of nature of science literature. While there is much to be gained from nature of science research, in this paper I raise concerns with using the nature of science as a template for the NOE. I examine several NOE frameworks and identify issues and gaps that arise from the application of nature of science-based approaches. That analysis indicates that extant NOE frameworks overlook the professional contexts in which engineering work occurs, and the ways that those contexts cause engineering practice to differ from that of science. Attending to and understanding the professional context of engineering is essential for describing the sociocultural dimensions of the NOE, which are of primary importance when it comes to engineering literacy. In addition to clarifying the NOE, I offer suggestions for how giving more attention to these NOE dimensions can move this field of research, and precollege engineering instruction, forward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiothoracic surgeries frequently pose unique challenges in the management of perioperative acute pain that require a multifaceted and personalized approach in order to optimize patient outcomes. This article discusses various analgesic strategies including regional anesthesia techniques such as thoracic epidurals, erector spinae plane blocks, and serratus anterior plane blocks and underscores the significance of perioperative multimodal medications, while providing nuanced recommendations for their use. This article further attempts to provide evidence for the efficacy of the different modalities and compares the effectiveness of the choice of analgesia. The roles of Acute Pain Services (APS) and Transitional Pain Services (TPS) in mitigating opioid dependence and chronic postsurgical pain are also discussed. Precision medicine is also presented as a potential way to offer a patient tailored analgesic strategy. Supported by various randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, the article concludes that an integrated, patient-specific approach encompassing regional anesthesia and multimodal medications, while also utilizing the services of the Acute Pain Service can help to enhance pain management outcomes in cardiothoracic surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing turnover rate of social workers in China has garnered widespread concern despite limited evidence-based investigation at the organizational level. This study extracted data from a sample of 4,399 social workers and the extended job demands/control/support model to explore the effects of organization-level factors on social workers' turnover intention. The findings indicate that larger organizational size, diminished perceived organizational support, and a weaker sense of organizational cultural identity are predictors of heightened turnover intentions among social workers. An intriguing finding was that, in contrast to workers in smaller organizations, those in larger entities did not exhibit a significant difference in terms of job demands and job control. However, they reported markedly lower levels of perceived organizational support and organizational cultural identity compared with their counterparts in smaller settings. These insights underscore the imperative for organizational managers to proactively furnish comprehensive support systems for social workers and cultivate a robust sense of organizational cultural identity, thereby mitigating the risk of turnover intentions and fostering a more stable workforce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article offers an interpretive examination of the future orientation of students in vocational schools as part of their vocational habitus. Through in-depth interviews with 30 adolescents (16 boys, 14 girls), the study identified three key future orientations: (1) the vague use of the term 'success' in the absence of an accompanying description of specific goals for achieving that success; (2) the future described through 'hard individualism'––a future replete with many challenging anticipated scenarios: constant struggles to achieve goals, lack of control, and an inability to predict reality, becoming accustomed to failures, and self-reliance; (3) preference for occupational independence or being solo self-employed, partially motivated by a desire to avoid future experiences of subordination, exploitation, and humiliation––factors characterising their current employment. The effects and implications of vocational school students' structural vulnerabilities and experiences of social exclusion on their future orientations are discussed. Further research of future orientation is critical in its role as a component of vocational habitus to achieve a complex understanding of the educational work in vocational schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In today's digital age, where consumers are bombarded with messages and have short attention spans, brands face the challenge of standing out. This paper proposes a paradigm shift for brands: viewing every interaction as a potential media opportunity. Drawing from case studies like Nike, Stella Artois and Glassdoor, it illustrates how brands can leverage routine interactions with their target audiences to craft compelling narratives, adapting to evolving consumer expectations. This paper suggests a practical model for identifying and maximising these media touchpoints, emphasising the importance of storytelling and authenticity. As technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) continue to evolve, the role of branding and marketing is poised for transformation, with new possibilities emerging to engage audiences in innovative ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A combination of personal, psychological, and environmental factors contributes to the risk of suicide attempts among those with suicidal thoughts and warrants further research. The study explored the associations of demographic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors with suicide attempts among a nationally representative of school-going Argentinian adolescents who have suicidal thoughts. The study analyzed the data from the Argentina Global School-based Students Survey 2018. The sample was restricted to adolescents with suicidal thoughts. The chi-square test was used to examine the association, and logistic regression determined the odds of suicide attempts across risk factors including demographic factors, psychosocial and environmental risks, as well as substance use and risk sex behaviors. In total, 11,962 (21.46%) of school-going Argentinian adolescents had suicidal thoughts, of whom 6033 (51.67%) had suicide attempts at least once in the last 12 months. Findings indicated that female adolescents had higher odds of attempts, paralleling global trends, while grade differences suggested a transitional phase's significance. Among those with suicidal thoughts, psychosocial factors like loneliness, bullying, and school absenteeism played pivotal roles in enhancing the odds of suicide attempts. In addition, substance use, notably marijuana, amphetamines, alcohol, and early initiation were associated with a heightened risk of suicide attempts. Risky sexual behaviors, like early activity and multiple partners, were also associated with a higher likelihood of suicide attempts in suicide ideators. Emphasizing preventive measures targeting adolescents, particularly within school settings, is crucial for reducing suicide attempts among those experiencing suicidal thoughts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Findings on the effect of network size and support on functional health are mixed. We examine whether network types, that simultaneously incorporate multiple network characteristics, are associated with functional health in late life. Methods: Data are from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (N = 3005). We estimated the longitudinal effect of membership in five multidimensional network types on disability in six activities of daily living using negative binomial regression, and on mobility (assessed using a timed walk test) using a generalized linear mixed model. Results: Compared to those in the large without strain network, older adults in the small, restricted, high contact network had fewer disabilities but worse mobility, while those in the large network with strain also had worse mobility. Discussion: Care plans focusing on function and mobility should consider multiple aspects of older adults' social networks including network size, diversity, and relationship strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultimate goals of education and training are the development of learners' learning outcomes. The prospect of achieving high academic results should function as a driving force for students to be engaged in learning. Recognition of the factors affecting their learning satisfaction should facilitate their learning process, especially in online learning environments such as Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). The purpose of this study was to examine the interactions among students' characteristics, their perceived values of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies, satisfaction and academic performances. A mixed-methods design was employed to investigate the issue under exploration. The 227 surveyed responses were collected from English majors who had experience in MOOCs and were studying at a private university in Can Tho city in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Data from the survey was analysed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 25 for the correlations between their characteristics and the quantitative variables, while Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was performed to examine the perceived effects of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies on their satisfaction and academic outcomes. Qualitative data was collected through open-ended survey questions and analysed based on thematic analysis guidelines. The results revealed that SRL strategies such as strategic planning, time management, environment structuring, and help-seeking positively influenced both student satisfaction and academic performance. Notably, the study identified flexible learning time, self-paced learning, and the ability to choose study locations as significant factors enhancing student satisfaction. Conversely, limited social interaction, poor internet connectivity, and low motivation were found to be demotivating factors. Additionally, the study highlighted the importance of gender and prior online learning experience in shaping students' satisfaction and performance in MOOCs. While gender showed no significant correlation with SRL strategies, satisfaction, or academic performance, prior experience in online learning environments, such as the number of completed MOOC courses, was significantly correlated with better academic outcomes. However, a weak negative correlation between students' academic years and their satisfaction was observed, suggesting that more advanced students might face increased academic pressure and higher expectations, leading to lower satisfaction levels. The research underscores the critical role of SRL strategies in facilitating effective learning in MOOCs, especially in the context of English major students who often lack direct interaction with instructors and peers. Training students in SRL strategies can help them better manage their learning processes, overcome challenges, and achieve their academic goals. This study contributes to the understanding of how student characteristics and SRL strategies affect learning in online environments and suggests practical implications for enhancing MOOC experiences. Future research should investigate additional SRL strategies and include a larger, more diverse sample to provide a more comprehensive understanding of their impact on student satisfaction and academic performance in MOOCs. Furthermore, exploring the specific challenges faced by different academic disciplines in MOOCs could offer more tailored solutions to improve online learning experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined workplace inclusivity experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and others (LGBT) using the Self-affirmation Theory, Workplace Belongingness, and Motivation. With Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, LGBT from diverse industries in Batangas were questioned utilizing a semi-structured interview. This study aimed to explore the inclusivity experience of LGBT members in their workplace and proposed comprehensive activities that can help promote an inclusive workplace effectively. To do this, the researcher examined the responses of the LGBT members. It was found that Self-affirmation Attributes; Conditional Positive Self-View; Self-affirmation Strategies for Self-esteem; Workplace Inclusivity, and Belonging; Diverse Spectrum of Workplace Facilities and Treatment for LGBT Groups; Sustainable Approaches to Inclusivity and Gender Equality Efforts; Dualistic Workplace Experiences; Innate Motivation Perform; Diverse External Motivators and Demotivators; and Fulfillment and Motivation in Assigned roles existed as part of their workplace experience. This study also recommended a Comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Value Proposition to be adopted in the workplace. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are one of the most common occupational diseases and the main cause of disability worldwide. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are one of the common health risks and the most important cause of absenteeism due to disability in various industries, including the petrochemical industry, in developed and developing countries. These disorders have important social economic, and significant financial consequences due to direct and hidden costs. Health behaviors play a role in both creating and preventing musculoskeletal disorders in employees. Therefore, by identifying the influencing factors on these behaviors, it is possible to strengthen and improve the preventive behaviors of musculoskeletal disorders through educational intervention programs. This study aims to assess the behavioral risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, and design and implement an educational intervention to teach effective behaviors in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in petrochemical industry workers. Methods: This study is a mixed-method study implemented in four stages involving the qualitative study, the design and evaluation of an instrument, the design of an experimental randomized clinical trial, and the psychometric evaluation of the instrument and the evaluation of the program. The research community consists of employees working in the petrochemical industry. The volume of samples in the qualitative study with the purposeful sampling method, in the instrument design stage based on the available sampling method, and also in the experimental study, the samples are employees suffering from work-related musculoskeletal disorders, who were selected based on a simple random method from among the employees of the petrochemical industry. Then they will be divided into intervention and control groups. The instruments of this research include a demographic questionnaire, a researcher-made questionnaire for measuring behavior, and two auxiliary instruments including the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Quebec Disability Scale. Evaluation is done in 4 stages: pre-test, immediately, 3, and 6 months after the intervention of both groups. The obtained data will be analyzed using SPSS software. Discussion: Musculoskeletal disorders related (WMSDs) to work can harm employees' health in various industries, including the petrochemical industry. This study attempts to evaluate the behavioral risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among petrochemical industry workers and design and implement an appropriate educational intervention program. Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial (IRCT20240321061346N1). Registered on 2024–04-10. Ethics Status: Ethics code: IR.MODARES.REC.1402.251. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 pandemic experiences have globally accelerated technology use in higher education, including in developing countries like South Africa. The advancements and use of technology during the COVID-19 lockdown led to increased access to knowledge relevant to educational, professional, and personal development. Nonetheless, difficulties with incorporating technology into teaching and learning remain in teacher education, and there are no real-world examples explaining solutions adapted to reflect South African post-pandemic teacher education. This research, conducted at a public university issues, high levels of plagiarism, and load shedding as challenges faced by pre-service teachers and teacher educators in post-pandemic teacher education. The results highlight the need in South Africa, aimed to understand and exemplify technology adaptations and challenges in post-pandemic teacher education through Vygotsky's social constructivist worldview. Data collected through observation and a focus-group interview session with participants in the Faculty of Education at a university in South Africa revealed technology incompatibility, ad-hoc solutions to socio-economic for continuous, interactive, and practically focused interactions between educators and policymakers, educators and educators, and educators and pre-service teachers to minimize or eradicate obstacles related to technology integration in post-pandemic teacher education programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RNA splicing is a fundamental step of gene expression. While constitutive splicing removes introns and joins exons unbiasedly, alternative splicing (AS) selectively determines the assembly of exons and introns to generate RNA variants corresponding to the same transcript. The biogenesis of circular RNAs (circRNAs) is inextricably associated with AS. Back-splicing, the biogenic process of circRNA, is a special form of AS. In cancer, both AS and circRNA deviate from the original track. In the present review, we delve into the intricate interplay between AS and circRNAs in the context of cancer. The relationship between AS and circRNAs is intricate, where AS modulates the biogenesis of circRNAs and circRNAs in return regulate AS events. Beyond that, epigenetic and posttranscriptional modifications concurrently regulate AS and circRNAs. On the basis of this modality, we summarize current knowledge on how splicing factors and other RNA binding proteins regulate circRNA biogenesis, and how circRNAs interact with splicing factors to influence AS events. Specifically, the feedback loop regulation between circRNAs and AS events contributes greatly to oncogenesis and cancer progression. In summary, resolving the crosstalk between AS and circRNA will not only provide better insight into cancer biology but also provoke novel strategies to combat cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]