Management Research Articles

Congenital deafness: from screening to management

Congenital deafness represents a major global health challenge, impacting both communication skills and social integration. The results of epidemiological observations show variable prevalence rates, influenced by genetic and environmental factors. The pathophysiological processes involve abnormalities of the auditory system resulting from genetic mutations, prenatal infections and exposure to ototoxic substances. Diagnostic approaches are multidisciplinary, combining audiological, genetic and imaging assessments. Management options include the use of hearing aids, cochlear implants, therapies and educational assistance, with a strong focus on the importance of early intervention. The implementation of universal newborn hearing screening programs plays a crucial role in early detection, although there are disparities. Future research efforts should focus on understanding genetic and environmental contributions, as well as developing innovative screening and intervention strategies. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, researchers, policymakers and educators is essential to ensure equal and adequate care and support for people with congenital deafness. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current state of the art on congenital deafness, covering topics such as epidemiology, pathophysiology, etiology, diagnostic methods, management strategies, screening procedures and future directions

Highlights of Cardiovascular Disease Prevention Studies Presented at the 2024 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions.

Focused review highlighting ten select studies presented at the 2024 American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions. Included studies assessed effects of intensive blood pressure control in patients with type 2 diabetes (BPROAD); decision support system for physicians to optimize early lipid lowering therapies after acute coronary syndrome (ZODIAC); efficacy and safety of zerlasiran, a short interfering RNA targeting lipoprotein(a) (ALPACAR); efficacy and safety of muvalaplin an oral disrupter of the assembly of lipoprotein(a) particles (KRAKEN); safety and efficacy of obicetrapib in patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (BROOKLYN); efficacy and safety of lerodalcibep, a third generation PCSK9 inhibitor in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia subjects (LIBerate-HeFH_OLE); personalized app-based coaching to improve physical activity in patients with HFpEF compared to standard care (MyoMobile); semaglutide to improve cardiovascular outcomes in patients with a history of coronary artery bypass surgery and overweight or obesity (the SELECT trial); efficacy and safety of plozasiran in adults with genetically or clinically defined familial chylomicronemia syndrome at high risk of acute pancreatitis (PALISADE); and transcriptomic signatures and predictors of evolocumab added to maximum statin therapy based on intra-coronary plaque characteristics (YELLOW III). Research presented at the 2024 AHA Scientific Sessions emphasized innovative strategies in cardiovascular disease prevention and management.

Anticancer Chemotherapy-Induced Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Comprehensive Review

The introduction of anticancer agents has transformed oncology, significantly improving survival rates. However, these therapies have introduced unintended cardiovascular risks, with atherosclerovascular disease (ASCVD) emerging as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. The development of ASCVD in this population involves multifactorial mechanisms, including endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and disrupted lipid metabolism. This review examines the various mechanisms through which anticancer chemotherapy contributes to ASCVD and highlights strategies for risk assessment and management. Each class of anticancer agents presents distinct cardiovascular challenges: anthracyclines induce oxidative stress and endothelial damage, promoting foam cell formation and plaque progression; taxanes and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors impair lipid metabolism and vascular stability; anti-metabolites exacerbate endothelial injury through reactive oxygen species; and mTOR inhibitors, hormonal therapies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors disrupt lipid profiles and inflammatory pathways, increasing the risk of plaque rupture and thrombosis. Mitigating chemotherapy-induced ASCVD necessitates a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Detailed pre-treatment cardiovascular risk assessments must address traditional and cancer-specific risk factors, including demographics, pre-existing conditions, and modifiable behaviors such as smoking and inactivity. Pharmacological interventions like statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, paired with lifestyle modifications, are essential to reducing ASCVD risk. In resource-limited settings, cost-effective strategies should be prioritized to enhance accessibility. Establishing cardio-oncology units facilitates care coordination, while long-term surveillance enables timely detection and intervention. These strategies collectively improve cardiovascular outcomes and survivorship in diverse patient populations.

Investigate Advanced Techniques for Power System Protection, Fault Detection, and Restoration to Enhance the Reliability and Resilience of Electrical Grids

Investigate Advanced Techniques for Power System Protection, Fault Detection, and Restoration is a critical area of study aimed at enhancing the reliability and resilience of electrical grids. As modern power systems face increasing complexities due to the integration of renewable energy sources, aging infrastructure, and growing demand for electricity, innovative protection strategies have become essential to mitigate risks associated with electrical faults and disturbances. The significance of this topic lies not only in improving the operational efficiency of power systems but also in minimizing economic losses and ensuring public safety. Advanced techniques in power system protection encompass a range of methodologies, including the implementation of digital protective relays, circuit breakers, and sophisticated communication systems. These technologies enable real-time monitoring and rapid fault detection, which are vital for maintaining continuous power supply. The evolution of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) has further revolutionized this field by facilitating self-healing grids that can autonomously detect, diagnose, and restore service after outages, significantly reducing outage durations and enhancing reliability metrics such as the System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI). Despite the advancements, challenges remain, particularly concerning cyber security risks, regulatory compliance, and the adaptation of protection schemes to accommodate fluctuating energy sources. These complexities necessitate ongoing research and development to create adaptive systems capable of responding to dynamic operational conditions while safeguarding infrastructure integrity. Moreover, the integration of emerging technologies must balance innovation with practical application, ensuring that protective measures not only meet current needs but also anticipate future demands within the energy sector. This investigation into advanced power system protection techniques is pivotal for addressing the pressing issues of system reliability and resilience in the face of evolving electrical grid dynamics. It highlights the critical role of technology in modernizing utility operations and lays the groundwork for future advancements in grid management and outage restoration strategies. Key Words: Power system protection, Fault detection, Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), Islanding, Grid reconnection, Fault localization, Microgrid protection, Fault current variability, System resilience

Tradeoffs in growth and fuel reduction when using prescribed fire in young mixed conifer stands

Abstract Background Following high-severity wildfires in conifer forests that rely on wind dispersal for regeneration, reforestation practices are used to hasten the development of large, fire-resistant trees that are better able to persist through the next fire. Planted forests, however, are particularly prone to high-severity wildfire effects for the initial decades following their establishment. This vulnerability suggests the need for surface fuel reduction treatments in the early stages of stand development. Such treatments would be aligned with the disturbance regime of frequent-fire forests and could also hasten the development of multi-aged structures dominated by fire-resistant trees. Conventional treatments early in stand development include shrub competition reduction and precommercial thinning, but prescribed fire is typically avoided. To assess the potential for inclusion of prescribed fire in young stand management, we investigated how four different treatments—mastication, mastication plus herbicide, two prescribed burns, and mastication plus two burns—affected individual and stand-level growth versus fuel loads in young mixed-conifer plantations in the north-central Sierra Nevada, CA, USA. Results Total surface fuel load more than doubled over 5 years in the mastication only and mastication plus herbicide treatments. Fuel accumulation was avoided in the two treatments that included prescribed fire. Stand growth was similar across the mastication only, mastication plus herbicide, and mastication plus burn treatments. Stand growth was lowest in the burn only treatment. The mastication plus herbicide treatment maximized individual tree growth, especially for white fir and incense-cedar. Individual tree growth was similar among the burn only, mastication only, and mastication plus burn treatments. Conclusions Mastication followed by repeated prescribed burning could be a viable management strategy to reduce wildfire hazard without sacrificing growth in young mixed-conifer stands that are entering a vulnerable stage of fire risk. Mastication in combination with herbicide may facilitate the growth of large, fire-resistant trees, but does not address surface fuel buildup. The use of fire alone can effectively reduce fuels, but stand growth may be somewhat low relative to mastication and herbicide. Incorporating prescribed fire is a promising approach for protecting planted stands from high-severity fire while transitioning them into multi-aged structures. Gap-based silvicultural systems that facilitate the development of multi-cohort stands can also use prescribed fire broadly in order to restore heterogeneity and low surface fuel loads.

A comprehensive assessment on recent advancements in spent fuel reprocessing and waste management: pioneering technologies for a sustainable nuclear future

Abstract This work analyzes advancements in nuclear energy, focusing on spent fuel reprocessing and waste disposal. Key technologies such as pyroprocessing, aqueous reprocessing, and the DUPIC (Direct Use of Spent PWR Fuel in CANDU) process are examined for their effectiveness in reducing environmental and safety risks. Pyroprocessing is highlighted for its ability to enhance actinide recovery and reduce waste volume, while the PUREX process demonstrates high recovery efficiencies for uranium and plutonium. The integration of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and chemical kinetics modeling optimizes process parameters, improving reprocessing outcomes. The DUPIC method shows potential in improving reactor performance and minimizing waste. Long-term waste management strategies, such as dry cask storage and geological disposal, are also explored, with advancements in safety and heat dissipation technologies. Innovations like autonomous passive cooling and antineutrino monitoring are promising for spent fuel management security. Additionally, the study highlights Generation IV reactors and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as critical to minimizing nuclear energy’s environmental impact. The work emphasizes continued progress in reprocessing and waste management to address technical, economic, and environmental challenges, ensuring the viability of nuclear energy.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Obesity Research and Management: A Comprehensive Review

Purpose: This review aims to explore the clinical and research applications of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), in understanding, predicting, and managing obesity. It assesses the use of AI tools to identify obesity-related risk factors, predict outcomes, personalize treatments, and improve healthcare interventions for obesity. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar, with keywords including “artificial intelligence”, “machine learning”, “deep learning”, “obesity”, “obesity management”, and related terms. Studies focusing on AI’s role in obesity research, management, and therapeutic interventions were reviewed, including observational studies, systematic reviews, and clinical applications. Results: This review identifies numerous AI-driven models, such as ML and DL, used in obesity prediction, patient stratification, and personalized management strategies. Applications of AI in obesity research include risk prediction, early detection, and individualization of treatment plans. AI has facilitated the development of predictive models utilizing various data sources, such as genetic, epigenetic, and clinical data. However, AI models vary in effectiveness, influenced by dataset type, research goals, and model interpretability. Performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score were evaluated to optimize model selection. Conclusions: AI offers promising advancements in obesity management, enabling more personalized and efficient care. While technology presents considerable potential, challenges such as data quality, ethical considerations, and technical requirements remain. Addressing these will be essential to fully harness AI’s potential in obesity research and treatment, supporting a shift toward precision healthcare.

Profit or Growth? The Impacts of Supplier Dependence and Customer Dependence on SMEs’ Performance

Previous research on supply chain dependence has predominantly focused on large firms, leaving a significant gap in the literature regarding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), an often overlooked but crucial sector of the economy. This study aims to address this gap by examining the relationship between supply chain dependence (i.e., supplier dependence, customer dependence) and SMEs’ performance—specifically profit and growth. We employ a multiple linear regression model with two-way fixed effects (firm and year) to analyze data from SMEs listed on China’s National Equities Exchange and Quotations (NEEQ) from 2013 to 2020, investigating the impact of supplier dependence and customer dependence on SMEs’ profitability and growth. We find that customer dependence has a significant positive effect on both SMEs’ profit and growth, while supplier dependence negatively impacts SMEs’ profit but does not significantly affect SMEs’ growth. Additionally, we conduct a heterogeneity analysis to explore how the influences of supplier dependence and customer dependence on SMEs’ performance vary based on SMEs’ characteristics, such as age, initial size, and innovation orientation. This research not only enhances the existing literature on supply chain dependence by providing insights specific to SMEs but also offers practical recommendations for improving supply chain management strategies within these firms.

Evaluating Diaphragmatic Paralysis After Pediatric Cardiac Surgery and the Role of Plication in Outcome Improvement: Insights From a Single-Center Experience.

Diaphragmatic paralysis (DP) is a significant complication following cardiac surgery, particularly impacting neonates and infants. This retrospective study aims to evaluate the incidence of DP, identify risk factors, and assess the impact of diaphragmatic plication as a definitive management strategy. We analyzed the clinical records of pediatric patients who underwent cardiac surgery at our center from 2016 to 2023. Cases of DP were identified, potential risk factors examined, and the effectiveness of plication assessed. Patients were categorized into early and late groups based on the timing of DP diagnosis relative to surgery. Out of 2,331 pediatric cardiac surgery patients (median age 7.2 months), DP was identified in 60 patients (2.6%), with a higher incidence of left-sided paralysis in 37 patients (61.7%). Diaphragmatic paralysis was more frequently associated with specific procedures, such as bidirectional Glenn, arterial switch operations, and Blalock-Taussig-Thomas shunt. Patients with DP had significantly longer intensive care unit (ICU) stays (21 vs 4 days, P < .001) and total hospital stays (38 vs 11 days, P < .001). Following plication, median mechanical ventilation (MV) hours significantly decreased (73-13 h, P < .001), and ICU stays were reduced (15-3 days, P < .001). Early plication was associated with shorter MV time and hospital stays. Diaphragmatic paralysis is a notable complication after cardiac surgery. Diaphragmatic plication proves to be an effective intervention, reducing MV duration and hospital stays. These findings underscore the importance of early recognition and intervention for improved postoperative outcomes.

Understanding Health Literacy in Fluid Management in Individuals Receiving Haemodialysis: A Directed Qualitative Content Analysis.

To describe the perspectives of individuals receiving haemodialysis regarding health literacy in fluid management. A qualitative descriptive approach using directed content analysis of interviews from an explanatory mixed methods study. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted from September 2020 to February 2021 with 28 individuals receiving haemodialysis who had attended a prior quantitative study. A directed qualitative content analysis approach was used to identify categories and subcategories emerging from the data. Six categories of health literacy were identified: (1) active health management, (2) engagement with healthcare providers, (3) understanding and support from healthcare providers, (4) social support, (5) health information literacy and (6) navigation of the healthcare system. Based on their real-life experience, individuals receiving haemodialysis have unique health literacy needs regarding fluid management. A comprehensive understanding of these unique needs is crucial in creating person-centered interventions to address inadequate fluid restriction. Interventions to address inadequate fluid restriction should be person-centered, considering each individual's unique health literacy needs. This involves conducting a comprehensive assessment of individuals' health literacy needs, empowering individuals to actively engage in health, engaging the entire support network and facilitating health information literacy in line with individuals' preferences. This study offers detailed insights into the health literacy needs related to fluid management in individuals undergoing haemodialysis. The findings could inform the development of person-centered fluid management strategies for these individuals. We adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist. No patient or public contribution.

Preliminary Findings on the Use of Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Qatar: A Case Series Study.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with rising prevalence. Traditional diagnostic approaches often lack biological markers, making precision in diagnosis challenging. This study explores the role of array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) in improving diagnostic accuracy for ASD. Five clinical vignettes of children diagnosed with ASD via DSM-5 or ADOS-2 were evaluated at a child and adolescent psychiatry clinic. Genome-wide oligonucleotide aCGH analysis was conducted using the Human Genome CGH Microarray kit (OGT), containing approximately 180,000 probes with 30-37 kb spacing based on the GRCh37 build. Fragile X syndrome was excluded using the Asuragen Amplidex PCR/CE FMR1 kit. The case series included boys aged 8-11 from diverse ethnic backgrounds (Asian, African, and Qatari), all presenting with varying degrees of ASD. Genetic analyses revealed significant chromosomal changes affecting eight genes, SHOX, HNF1B, COH1, AHNAK, DOCK8, TIAM1, TBL1XR1, and ALKBH8, highlighting diverse genetic contributions to ASD. These findings encompassed both chromosomal gains and losses, as well as variants of uncertain significance (VUS). The aCGH analyses provided valuable genetic insights, refining the diagnostic process and informing personalized management strategies for ASD. This suggests that aCGH is a useful tool in identifying clinically relevant genetic variations, particularly in settings with limited resources, where other diagnostic modalities may be less accessible.

Integration of UAV Multispectral Remote Sensing and Random Forest for Full-Growth Stage Monitoring of Wheat Dynamics

Wheat is a key staple crop globally, essential for food security and sustainable agricultural development. The results of this study highlight how innovative monitoring techniques, such as UAV-based multispectral imaging, can significantly improve agricultural practices by providing precise, real-time data on crop growth. This study utilized unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based remote sensing technology at the wheat experimental field of the Hebei Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences to capture the dynamic growth characteristics of wheat using multispectral data, aiming to explore efficient and precise monitoring and management strategies for wheat. A UAV equipped with multispectral sensors was employed to collect high-resolution imagery at five critical growth stages of wheat: tillering, jointing, booting, flowering, and ripening. The data covered four key spectral bands: green (560 nm), red (650 nm), red-edge (730 nm), and near-infrared (840 nm). Combined with ground-truth measurements, such as chlorophyll content and plant height, 21 vegetation indices were analyzed for their nonlinear relationships with wheat growth parameters. Statistical analyses, including Pearson’s correlation and stepwise regression, were used to identify the most effective indices for monitoring wheat growth. The Normalized Difference Red-Edge Index (NDRE) and the Triangular Vegetation Index (TVI) were selected based on their superior performance in predicting wheat growth parameters, as demonstrated by their high correlation coefficients and predictive accuracy. A random forest model was developed to comprehensively evaluate the application potential of multispectral data in wheat growth monitoring. The results demonstrated that the NDRE and TVI indices were the most effective indices for monitoring wheat growth. The random forest model exhibited superior predictive accuracy, with a mean squared error (MSE) significantly lower than that of traditional regression models, particularly during the flowering and ripening stages, where the prediction error for plant height was less than 1.01 cm. Furthermore, dynamic analyses of UAV imagery effectively identified abnormal field areas, such as regions experiencing water stress or disease, providing a scientific basis for precision agricultural interventions. This study highlights the potential of UAV-based remote sensing technology in monitoring wheat growth, addressing the research gap in systematic full-cycle analysis of wheat. It also offers a novel technological pathway for optimizing agricultural resource management and improving crop yields. These findings are expected to advance intelligent agricultural production and accelerate the implementation of precision agriculture.

Impact of time-based variability on planning reliability in construction projects: analysis of production management systems

PurposeThis research article proposes a quantitative method for analyzing planning reliability and risk evaluation in construction projects through probabilistic numerical simulation models. The aim is to assess the combined time-based variability of activities across the project and its impact on planning reliability in various production management systems.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines different methods for comparing the impact of production management strategies, specifically standardization and lean construction practices, on project reliability. The article introduces Monte Carlo, importance sampling and first-order-second moment methods as quantitative tools for decision-making and continuous improvement in construction projects.FindingsThe utilization of multiple numerical simulation models demonstrates how the variability in activity durations directly affects planning reliability, leading to uncertainty and increased risk in construction projects. The study highlights the significance of lean construction principles and industrialized processes, such as standardization of processes and construction methods, in reducing variability and improving the average duration of activities. Furthermore, it quantifies the differential impact of various production management systems on project performance and planning reliability.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is based on a limited number of case studies, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. The results are specific to the construction projects analyzed in Colombia. Expanding the research to include a broader range of projects will improve the applicability of the findings. Developing more comprehensive numerical models can also enhance understanding of planning reliability across different construction management systems.Originality/valueCurrently, there are limited quantitative methods available for project managers to evaluate the impact of industrialized construction practices and production management strategies on planning reliability as well as quantifying the associated risk level in project delays. Consequently, the adoption of innovative construction methods is often limited to a few pilot projects, as managers lack numerical evidence to support the implementation of new methodologies that require changes in traditional operational practices.

Work boundary violations and daily goal progress in remote work: the importance of the work role re-engagement

Purpose This paper aims to empirically study the effect of work boundary violations in remote settings on daily goal progress and the important role that work role reengagement plays for remote workers. Design/methodology/approach This paper conducted a five-day diary study in China, involving a total of 118 remote workers, to collect data on the effects of work boundary violations on daily goal progress. Findings The results demonstrated that self-control resource depletion plays a mediating role in the relationship between work boundary violations and daily goal progress. In addition, work role reengagement was found to mitigate the association between work boundary violations and self-control resource depletion. Practical implications This paper provides employees with the signals that cause them to perform less well in remote work situations than in traditional offices. Employees can develop work−family boundary management strategies to reduce work boundary violations while teleworking. Originality/value This paper enriches the existing literature on work boundary violations by incorporating ego depletion theory and integrating it with the current boundary management literature. The paper provides theoretically grounded recommendations for organizations seeking to enhance the efficiency of remote workers.

Sustainable Domestic Sewage Reclamation: Insights from Small Villages and Towns in Eastern China

Domestic sewage pollution poses significant risks to human health and the ecological environment but sewage water is gradually recognized as a renewable water resource worldwide. To enhance water resource utilization and facilitate reclamation from domestic sewage, substantial global efforts have focused on developing systematic management strategies and advanced technologies for treatment and resource recovery. This study examines and presents the case of domestic sewage reclamation and water reuse in the rural Hangjiahu region, situated on the southern bank of Taihu Lake in Northern Zhejiang Province, Eastern China. It provides a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art technologies implemented in the region. In rural areas, sewage treatment is decentralized and involves two primary streams: one where urine is separately disinfected and sterilized, with feces processed into agricultural fertilizer; and another where greywater undergoes bio-composting and wetland treatment to produce recycled water. Additionally, natural rainwater is collected and stored in ponds, enhancing the region’s water resources. The results demonstrate that the integration of domestic sewage reclamation and rainwater storage has effectively mitigated the risks of flooding during rainy seasons and water shortages during droughts. Remarkably, no severe floods or droughts have occurred in the region since 1991, contrasting with historical records from 1909 to 1954, when such events were frequent. This study underscores the potential for replicating these approaches in other regions facing similar challenges.

Trophic niche differentiation and foraging plasticity of long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) in Tasmanian waters: insights from isotopic analysis

Understanding the foraging preference of cetaceans is crucial for assessing their role as apex predators and indicators of marine ecosystem health. Using stable isotope analysis, we investigated trophic niche differentiation and foraging plasticity in 141 long-finned pilot whales (Globicephala melas edwardii) that stranded along the Tasmanian coast at three locations (Marion Bay, King Island, and Maria Island). Stranding location accounted for most of the variability in skin isotopic values (δ13C: - 17.9 ± 0.2 ‰ to –16.9 ± 0.2 ‰, Principal Coordinate 1 = 89%), likely reflecting differences in foraging habitats. In addition, isotopic niche overlap ranged from minimal (0-10% between Marion Bay and Maria Island) to moderate (between Marion Bay and King Island, and King Island and Maria Island). While sex related differences in isotopic niche space were minimal overall, there was some variability in the core niche space between males and females at Maria Island. Dietary proportions from our mixing model support a predominantly cephalopod diet for pilot whales in Tasmanian waters (91%, CI: 63-90%), with greater contributions from offshore dietary sources (68%, CI: 25-95%). The dietary variability across the three strandings highlights the foraging plasticity of pilot whales, which despite their preferences for a wide range of oceanic cephalopods, can adopt a more generalist feeding strategy when necessary. These findings provide valuable insights into the ecological role and adaptability of pilot whales in Tasmanian waters, highlighting the importance of monitoring apex predators to inform conservation and ecosystem management strategies in dynamic marine ecosystems.

Urban Parks in Permanent Preservation Areas as a Tool for Conservation and Environmental Education: a Bibliometric Study

Objective: This study investigated the scientific production on Urban Parks in Permanent Preservation Areas (APPs), focusing on their multifunctionality in environmental conservation and ecological education. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on the National Environmental Education Policy (Law nº 9.795/1999) and research highlighting Urban Parks as strategic spaces for environmental balance and collective awareness. Method: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus database, covering 562 documents published between 1979 and 2023. The VOSviewer software was used to identify co-authorship networks, keywords, and thematic patterns. Results and Discussion: Urban Parks in APPs have great potential for sustainability and environmental education but are underutilized as pedagogical tools. Expanding the integration between conservation and education through public policies, experimental projects, and participatory management strategies is recommended. This study contributes to the formulation of guidelines to maximize the impact of these spaces on urban quality of life and environmental awareness. Originality/Value: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific landscape on Urban Parks in APPs, identifying key trends, gaps, and opportunities for future research. It highlights the underexplored potential of these spaces as tools for environmental education and suggests strategic actions to enhance their multifunctionality. The findings offer valuable insights for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in urban planning and environmental management.

Exploring Optimisation Strategies Under Jump-Diffusion Dynamics

This paper addresses the portfolio optimisation problem within the jump-diffusion stochastic differential equations (SDEs) framework. We begin by recalling a fundamental theoretical result concerning the existence of solutions to the Black–Scholes–Merton partial differential equation (PDE), which serves as the cornerstone for subsequent analysis. Then, we explore a range of financial applications, spanning scenarios characterised by the absence of jumps, the presence of jumps following a log-normal distribution, and jumps following a distribution of greater generality. Additionally, we delve into optimising more complex portfolios composed of multiple risky assets alongside a risk-free asset, shedding new light on optimal allocation strategies in these settings. Our investigation yields novel insights and potentially groundbreaking results, offering fresh perspectives on portfolio management strategies under jump-diffusion dynamics.

Impact of Bladder Management Strategies on Autonomic Dysreflexia Severity in People With Spinal Cord Injuries.

We investigated whether severity of autonomic dysreflexia (AD) was associated with more patient-reported bladder and bowel symptoms and compared AD severity by bladder management strategy in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). The Neurogenic Bladder Research Group SCI Registry is a prospective study which evaluated quality of life after SCI. Bladder and bowel symptoms were assessed through Neurogenic Bladder Symptom Score and Neurogenic Bowel Dysfunction score, respectively. AD severity was assessed with the Autonomic Dysreflexia Following Spinal Cord Injury (ADFSCI) instrument. Bladder management was classified as volitional voiding, clean intermittent catheterization (CIC), indwelling catheter (IDC), and surgery (augmentation and diversion). AD scores were identified for 1473 people. The mean age was 45. Bladder management was CIC in 754 (51%), IDC in 271 (18%), surgery in 195 (13%) and voiding in 259 (18%). On univariate analysis, higher ADFSCI scores occurred with complete injuries (3.1 vs 3.4, p = 0.03), cervical/thoracic injuries (3.8 vs 1.5, p < 0.0001), and chronic pain (3.9 vs 2.9, p = 0.0004). IDC (5.2) and surgery (4.5) had higher ADFSCI scores than CIC (3.0) and volitional voiding (2.8) (p < 0.0001). Sub-analysis showed bladder augmentation had significantly higher ADSCI scores than diversion (4.7 vs 3.7, p = 0.03). On multivariate analysis, level of injury, bladder management, and bowel and bladder symptoms remained associated with worse AD. Level of injury, age, worse bowel and bladder symptoms and bladder management type were associated with higher AD scores. Bladder management with surgery, particularly bladder augment, and IDC had associated greater AD symptoms compared to CIC or voiding. clinicaltrials.gov NTC06216081 and HSRP20153564, U.S. National Library of Medicine, wwwcf.nlm.nih.gov.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis of amyopathic dermatomyositis patients with interstitial lung disease: insights from a retrospective cohort

Abstract Introduction The diagnosis of amyopathic dermatomyositis with interstitial lung disease (ADM-ILD) is challenging due to the lack of typical skin features and overlapping syndromes. We aimed to determine the characteristics and prognosis of patients with ADM-ILD to further guide their clinical management. Methods A retrospective cohort study comprising 190 Chinese patients diagnosed with interstitial lung disease (ILD) was conducted. Patients were stratified into four groups using the Sontheimer criteria and predominant high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) patterns. Demographic features, clinical presentation, laboratory parameters, duration of ILD, and follow-up data were analysed. Results There were significant differences in the clinical parameters among the 190 patients with ILD in the amyopathic dermatomyositis (ADM, n = 69) and control (n = 121) groups. The ADM with nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) group (n = 46) presented increased haemoglobin (125.93 ± 12.91 g/L, p = 0.005), creatine kinase-MB (15.19 ± 8.58 U/L, p &lt; 0.001), and partial pressure of oxygen (93.08 ± 26.20 mmHg, p = 0.003) levels and decreased β2-microglobulin (2.61 ± 1.21 mg/L, p = 0.039) levels compared to the control-NSIP group (n = 92). The ADM with organizing pneumonia (OP) group (n = 23) had a greater percentage of females (7/16, p = 0.023) and higher alanine aminotransferase (30.30 ± 20.67 U/L, p = 0.039) and aspartate aminotransferase (53.35 ± 65.86 U/L, p = 0.003) levels than the control-OP group (n = 29). Both the ADM-NSIP and OP groups presented elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (290.61 ± 86.49 U/L, p = 0.009; 317.35 ± 181.32 U/L, p = 0.003, respectively) and increased anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) positivity rates (82.61%, p = 0.01; 73.91%, p &lt; 0.001, respectively). Notably, 81.26% of patients with ADM-NSIP/OP had LDH levels above normal. The serum LDH levels could be used to distinguish patients with ADM-NSIP/OP (sensitivity: 73.91%, specificity: 82.64%). Survival was shorter among patients with ADM-OP than among control patients (p = 0.002). Cox multivariate analysis revealed that age (p = 0.002), smoking status (p = 0.011), anti-melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) antibody (p = 0.017), and white blood cell count (p = 0.004) were independent predictors of shorter survival. Conclusions Elevated serum LDH levels in patients predominantly presenting with NSIP or OP patterns may indicate the presence of ADM-ILD. The identified prognostic factors underscore the importance of early detection and personalized management strategies for optimizing outcomes in patients with ADM-ILD.