bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cycle number and waveform of fluid flow affect bovine articular chondrocytes
Authors: Edlich Maximilian , Yellowley Clare E. , Jacobs Christopher R. , Donahue Henry J.
Published: November 2024

Many studies have shown that a loading‐induced (bio)physical signal regulates chondrocyte behavior. In a recent study our group has demonstrated the shear stress level‐ and frequency‐dependent effect of sinusoidal oscillatory fluid flow on bovine articular chondrocyte (BAC) cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), neglecting the fact that chondrocytes are not likely to see these ideal waveform in vivo or in vitro. Furthermore, possible overload of articular cartilage or excessive shear stress in chondrocyte cultures are more likely to be of a short nature. Therefore, in this study we choose to investigate a saw‐tooth waveform oscillating fluid flow at varying exposure times in comparison to the established sinusoidal oscillatory waveform. [Ca2+]i, as an early signaling molecule, was quantified using the fluorescent dye fura‐2. BAC were exposed to 1 Hz sinusoidal or saw‐tooth waveform oscillating fluid flow at 2.2 Pa flow rates in a parallel plate flow chamber for 8 different loading times. As little as 5 cycles of oscillatory fluid flow were sufficient to increase [Ca2+]i significantly over baseline. The number of responding cells could not be increased any further after a sufficient number of cycles (11), regardless of the waveform. Furthermore, a saw‐tooth waveform appeared to be more stimulatory than regular sinusoidal oscillating flow at higher cycle numbers. BAC appear to be able to respond to these biophysical stimuli in a differentiated manner. This ability might give every single chondrocyte the capability to maintain its territory autonomously, since chondrocytes distributed in articular cartilage without the possibility to interact, e.g., via cell processes.
Hyaluronan injection affects neither osteoarthritis progression nor loading of the OA knee in dogs
Authors: Brandt Kenneth D. , Smith Gerald N. , Myers Stephen L.
Published: November 2024

We previously reported that intraarticular injections of hyaluronan (HA), administered prophylactically to dogs in whom knee osteoarthritis had been induced by transection of the anterior cruicate ligament, did not significantly modify the intraarticular pathology but decreased the proteogylcan concentration of the articular cartilage by as much as 30%. Because the cartilage proteoglycan concentration is directly related to the stiffness of the tissue, these results raised the possibility that intraarticular HA therapy could exacerbate OA. In the present study, using a different HA formulation, with a longer interval between intraarticular HA injection and examination of joint tissues, we found that neither prophylactic nor therapeutic administration of HA had an effect on the severity of OA pathology, the magnitude of vertical ground reaction forces generated by the unstable hind limb (a surrogate for joint pain), or the cartilage proteoglycan concentration. The data suggest that the suppression of proteoglycan synthesis induced by HA is temporary and fully reversible and that HA injections do not result in overloading of the OA extremity. A significant correlation was noted between the severity of chondropathy and the magnitude of the vertical ground reaction forces generated by the unstable limb.
Induction of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) by proteasome inhibitor MG 132 protects articular chondrocytes from cellular death in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Grossin Laurent , Etienne Stéphanie , Gaborit Nadège , Pinzano Astrid , Cournil‐Henrionnet Christel , Gerard Catherine , Payan Elisabeth , Netter Patrick , Terlain Bernard , Gillet Pierre
Published: November 2024

The aim of this work was to determine whether Hsp70 overexpression via proteasome inhibitor MG132 was able to protect chondrocytes towards mono‐iodoacetate (MIA) cytotoxicity both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, overexpression of Hsp70 via MG132 was significantly able to protect chondrocytes from MIA toxicity (MTT/LDH analyses). Hsp70 essentially mediated this chondroprotective effect as demonstrated by antisense strategy. In vivo, chondrocytic overexpression of Hsp70, after a preventive intra‐articular injection of MG132 in rat knee, was sufficient to decrease the severity of OA‐induced MIA lesions, as demonstrated histologically and biochemically. In conclusion, intracellular overexpression of Hsp70, through proteasome inhibition, could be an interesting tool in protecting chondrocytes from cellular injuries, either necrotic or apoptotic in nature, and thus might be a novel chondroprotective modality in rat experimental OA.
Expression of adhesion molecules and collagen on rat chondrocyte seeded into alginate and hyaluronate based 3D biosystems. Influence of mechanical stresses
Authors: Gigant‐Huselstein C. , Hubert P. , Dumas D. , Dellacherie E. , Netter P. , Payan E. , Stoltz J.F.
Published: November 2024

Chondrocytes use mechanical signals, via interactions with their environment, to synthesize an extracellular matrix capable to withstanding high loads. Most chondrocyte–matrix interactions are mediated via transmembrane receptors such as integrins or non‐integrins receptors (i.e. annexin V and CD44).

The aim of this study was to analyze, by flow cytometry, the adhesion molecules (α5/β1 integrins and CD44) on rat chondrocytes seeded into 3D biosystem made of alginate and hyaluronate. These biosystems were submitted to mechanical stress by knocking the biosystems between them for 48 hours. The expression of type I and type II collagen was also evaluated.

The results of the current study showed that mechanical stress induced an increase of type II collagen production and weak variations of α5/β1 receptors expression no matter what biosystems. Moreover, our results indicated that hyaluronan receptor CD44 expression depends on extracellular matrix modifications. Thus, these receptors were activated by signals resulted from cell environment variations (HA addition and modifications owing to mechanical stress). It suggested that this kind of receptor play a crucial role in extracellular matrix homeostasis. Finally, on day 24, no dedifferentiation of chondrocytes was noted either in biosystems or under mechanical stress. For all biosystems, the neosynthesized matrix contained an important level of collagen, which was type II, whatever biosystems.

In conclusion, it appeared that the cells, under mechanical stress, maintained their phenotype. In addition, it seems that, on rat chondrocytes, α5/β1 integrins did not act as the main mechanoreceptor (as described for human chondrocytes). In return, hyaluronan receptor CD44 seems to be in relation with matrix composition.
Blood rheology and systemic oxidative status in patients with acromegaly
Authors: Kilic-Toprak Emine , Yaylali Guzin Fidan , Ozdemir Yasin , Topsakal Senay , Kilic-Erkek Ozgen , Oymak Burak , Bor-Kucukatay Melek
Published: November 2024

Background

Cardiovascular system is known to be affected in acromegaly. However, it was not reported to date if hemorheology was also altered and there is limited data regarding systemic oxidative status in patients with acromegaly.

Objective

To investigate alterations in hemorheology and systemic oxidative stress in patients with acromegaly.

Methods

The study comprised 19 active (AA) and 15 controlled (CA) acromegaly patients (n = 34, mean age 48.85 ± 1.69 years) and 29 controls (mean age 52.83 ± 1.37 years). Erythrocyte aggregation index (AI), aggregation half time (t½), amplitude (Amp) and erythrocyte elongation index (EI) were determined by an ektacytometer. Commercial kits were used for measuring serum total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant status (TAS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated.

Results

There were statistically significant differences regarding EI at shear stresses of 16.87 ve 30.00 Pa (p = 0.034, p = 0.0001, respectively) and AI (p = 0.050, p = 0.035, respectively) values among the control, AA and CA groups. Decrement of t½ was in line with increment of AI and indicated increased erythrocyte aggregation. Serum TOS, TAS and OSI values were similar between the control, AA and CA groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrated reduced erythrocyte deformability and increased erythrocyte aggregation in patients with AA and CA.
Within-person, longitudinal associations between neighborhood cohesion and adult mental health: A test of bidirectional relations
Authors: Prati Gabriele
Published: November 2024

Background:

There is theory and evidence supporting a relationship between neighborhood cohesion and mental health among adult people. However, most studies have used a cross-sectional design, and longitudinal studies have provided mixed support for this hypothesis. Moreover, while neighborhood cohesion is assumed to be a consistent predictor of mental health, the possibility of a reciprocal relation has been overlooked.

Aim:

The aim of the current study was to investigate the within-person reciprocal associations between neighborhood cohesion and adult mental health.

Methods:

This study used data from Understanding Society: the UK Household Longitudinal Study including waves 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 ( n = 81,895). A short version of Buckner’s Neighborhood Cohesion Instrument was used, along with two well-established measures of mental health: the 12-item General Health Questionnaire and the mental component summary score of the 12-item Short-Form Health Survey.

Results:

Hierarchical Bayesian continuous time dynamic modeling revealed significant reciprocal within-person cross-effects (i.e. deterministic effects) between neighborhood cohesion and adult mental health, a larger standardized effect of mental health on neighborhood cohesion than than vice versa. Moreover, peak standardized cross-lagged effects were found for a time interval of approximately 1 year. Finally, the combined stochastic and deterministic interpretation revealed effects of neighborhood cohesion on mental health that were opposite to what was expected, suggesting a faster dissipation of some initially correlated change.

Conclusion:

Although neighborhood cohesion has traditionally been conceptualized in terms of its contribution to mental health, there is greater support for the view that mental health precedes neighborhood cohesion rather than the reverse.
Longitudinal change and association between four types of social support and mental health among low-income U.S. veterans
Authors: Tsai Jack , Lai Hongyin , Maroufy Vahed
Published: November 2024

Aims: This study sought to examine how perceived social support changes over time for U.S. veterans and how social support relates to their mental health longitudinally. Methods: Data from a nationally representative sample of 783 low-income U.S. veterans in 2021-2023 were analyzed to examine changes and correlates of four different types of social support (Emotional/Informational Support, Tangible Support, Affectionate Support and Positive Social Interaction) over 1 year. Weighted logistic mixed models were conducted. Results: The majority of veterans reported no change in their level of perceived social support, but about 18%–26% reported either an increase or decrease (about evenly split about increase/decrease) in their perceived level of one of the four types of social support. High levels of the four types of social support were associated with being married and a lower likelihood of screening positive for depression. Other differential associations were found between sociodemographic characteristics and some types of social support. Conclusion: These findings confirm the value of assessing perceived social support among veterans with low socioeconomic status who may have mental health issues.
Christianity and Choices for In-Vitro Fertilisation among Igbo Christians of Nigeria
Authors: Nweze Stanley Ndubuisi , Uwaegbute Kingsley Ikechukwu
Published: November 2024

The work studies how Christianity affects Igbo Christians’ choices for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). Using an ethnographic method of data collection like the interview, the study shows that while Christianity is a strong religious movement in Igboland, it does not affect choices for IVF among the people. This, notwithstanding the fact that some Christian tradition like Roman Catholicism strongly condemns the practice. On the contrary, our finding show that Igbo cultural value for children, who continue one’s lineage, is the main driving force that affects choices for IVF among the people. The affordability of IVF remains a problem towards its full embrace by Igbo Christians, though.
The Heterogeneous Effects of College Education on Outcomes Related to Deaths of Despair
Authors: Bulczak Grzegorz , Gugushvili Alexi , Koltai Jonathan
Published: November 2024

College education features prominently in research on determinants of deaths from substance use disorders and self-harm—outcomes collectively referred to as “deaths of despair” (DoD). Limited attention has been given to whether the protective effects of college education on indicators of despair vary by individuals’ likelihood of college completion. We use data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health for 6,145 individuals to test whether the protective effects of college completion on precursors to DoD vary according to individuals’ propensity to attain a college degree. Understanding whether the benefits of college education differ depending on the propensity to complete it is important for designing effective educational policies. Using the heterogeneous treatment effects approach, we find that individuals with a relatively low propensity for graduating from college but who complete it have a lower likelihood of depressive symptoms, binge drinking, prescription drug abuse, and hard drug use.
Connections amidst disconnections: Transport routes and the Naga conflict in South Asia
Authors: Medom Viliebeinuo
Published: November 2024

Countless conflicts characterise the road-scape of Nagaland, a frontier border state in the Northeastern region of India. In such a milieu, transport routes in the form of roads transcend the technical imperative of mobility of people, goods, and services and become vehicles of hope, regulation and control. Keeping this duality of roads in mind, this article, through archival research and ethnohistoric accounts, explores how roads in this region became objects of dominance and their surfaces a potential space for conflicts and mitigating conflicts. It traces how roadways viewed as pathways to “civilisation” during the British colonial era (nineteenth century) came to define the state's conception of “appropriate” mobility and movements. The article contends that infrastructures built to connect people can augment a divide between “us” and “them” and signal newer forms of disconnect within the state-defined logic of connections.
Letter re: The Proposed Criminalisation of LGBTQ+ Identities in Ghana: Highlighting the Psychological Health Challenges of Conflicting Values
Authors: Adu Peter , Boateng Raymond Agyenim
Published: November 2024

The introduction of Ghana’s Anti-LGBTQ+ bill, aimed at criminalising LGBTQ+ identities and advocacies, has sparked widespread debate and significant controversies. In this commentary, we discussed the proposed bill and expounded upon the potential ramifications of such legislation on individual psychological health and well-being. We highlighted the consequences of the clash between differing sets of values. We argued that the criminalisation of LGBTQ+ individuals can intensify stigmatisation and exacerbate suicidal tendencies. Such a bill can also significantly affect broader society, impacting various domains, including education, entertainment, and healthcare delivery. Consequently, we emphasised the importance of fostering LGBTQ+ research, societal acceptance, and support for these individuals. This can promote a healthy society, enhance mental health outcomes and mitigate the risk of poor health outcomes among LGBTQ+ individuals. This commentary advocate for culturally specific, evidence-based studies that examine psychological strategies for changing public attitudes towards minority groups. Such studies may focus on the interplay between societal factors like human rights and norms and health to enhance inclusivity.
Do Prison Visits Have a Spectrum? Visitation Quality and the Varying Impacts for Individuals’ Behavior and Well-Being in Prison
Authors: Berghuis Maria L. , Cochran J. C. , Nieuwbeerta P. , Palmen H.
Published: November 2024

Scholarship suggests that prison visits can have beneficial as well as potential adverse effects on life in prison. What remains unclear is what explains these heterogeneous effects. In this study, latent profile analysis and regression analyses are used to examine whether the nature of people’s experiences during visits dictates their effects on individuals’ behavior and well-being in prison among more than 2,000 individuals incarcerated in Dutch prisons. The results showed that individuals had diverse, mainly positive experiences during visits which were related to lower incidences of misconduct and higher well-being. However, some visits left individuals feeling stressed, helpless, or guilty, which were related to higher incidences of misconduct (particularly property infractions) and lower overall well-being. These findings suggest that policies aimed at improving visit interactions could have potential beneficial impacts on prison experiences and effects.
What’s the Difference Between Me and You? An Examination of Causes and Correlates of Gun Violence Among Youth Who Actively Carry Firearms
Authors: Altikriti Sultan , Connolly Eric J.
Published: November 2024

Despite a growing body of research examining the causes and correlates of gun violence, less attention has focused on examining these factors among actively gun-carrying youth. This study addresses this gap by assessing the role of individual and environmental predictors of gun violence among a sample of adjudicated youth and a subsample who actively carry firearms. The results revealed that environmental and individual factors were associated with gun violence in the full sample. However, only perceived rewards of crime and callousness were significant predictors of gun violence among actively gun-carrying youths. This pattern suggests that while environmental and individual factors differentiate firearm noncarriers and carriers, the difference between those who carry and those who engage in gun violence are primarily individual factors. The findings highlight the need for more theoretical development on causal pathways linking risk factors to gun violence, where carrying is considered a mechanism rather than a covariate.
Integrating AI Into Education: Successful Strategies, Ideas, and Tools From Psychology Instructors
Authors: Costa Christina , Husain-Habib Nahid , Reiter Alyssa
Published: November 2024

Background

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into psychological education represents an opportunity in teaching methodologies, offering possibilities for instructors. Despite its potential, there is a significant gap in knowledge regarding how psychology instructors implement AI tools in their teaching practices.

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to explore how psychology instructors utilize AI tools.

Method

This study employed semistructured interviews with 15 psychology instructors. Interviews were transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis.

Results

The study revealed key motivations for AI integration: preparing students for the workforce, enhancing academic integrity, aligning with institutional goals, and addressing potential challenges. Additionally, various methods of AI integration were explored, focusing on fostering critical thinking, supporting research and writing, and promoting ethical AI use. Challenges such as inconsistent AI policies, varied student proficiency, ethical concerns, and difficulties with prompt engineering were highlighted.

Conclusion

This study shows that AI integration in psychology education is done in a myriad of ways, and instructors demonstrate creative approaches to how to implement AI and the potential challenges.

Teaching Implications

Psychology instructors can consider integrating AI tools into their coursework. Additionally, educators can address potential challenges by providing clear AI usage guidelines and offering tailored.
Comparison of Nasal Airways After Classical Structural Rhinoplasty and Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty
Authors: Emre Ismet Emrah , Koyluoglu Yilmaz Onat , Seyhun Nurullah , Kaya Kerem Sami
Published: November 2024

Purpose: To investigate whether there was a difference in the nasal airway dimensions after dorsal preservation and classical structural rhinoplasty. Introduction: The surgical approach to rhinoplasty has improved over many decades. The first was the classic structural rhinoplasty (CSR) developed by Joseph, where the excess tissues are removed from the dorsal hump. In the following decades, dorsal preservation rhinoplasty (DPR) was established to prevent complications associated with CSR. Methods: One hundred twenty-four patients without self-reported nose obstruction syndromes underwent DPR or CSR according to the authors’ shared surgical regime. Nasal airway dimensions of rhinoplasty patients were measured preoperatively and postoperatively with acoustic rhinometry (AR), and minimum cross-sectional areas (MCA) and internal nasal volumes (VOL) were acquired. Results: Dorsal preservation rhinoplasty was performed on 64 patients (51.6%), while classical structural rhinoplasty was performed on the remaining 60 (48.4%). There were no significant differences between the 2 techniques regarding VOL and MCA. (MCA1left side DPR vs CSR P = .539, VOL1 right side DPR vs CSR P = .843). Conclusion: We postulate that nasal airway dimensions do not predict or indicate whether the DPR or CSR technique will be/have been used in rhinoplasty surgery, and the employed technique does not significantly alter the dimensions of the nasal airways. Any significant change in nasal airway dimensions is more likely due to the septal intervention.
Pseudomonas Labyrinthitis Complicating Acute Otitis Media: Case Report
Authors: Kharrat Ghada , Ferchichi Sana , Jouini Zahra
Published: November 2024

Background: Bacterial labyrinthitis has been rarely described. Pseudomonas incrimination is even exceptional. Herein, we present a case of pseudomonas labyrinthitis and discuss diagnosis, value of imaging, treatment and prognosis of this entity. Case Report: A 18-year-old female presented with left sudden hearing loss, rotatory vertigo, vomiting, and tinnitus evolving for 24 hours. Ten days earlier, she presented symptoms of acute media otitis. Otoendoscopic examination revealed a tympanic perforation with purulent otorrhea. Vestibular examination revealed a harmonious peripheric vestibular syndrome. A tonal audiogram showed a left perceptive deafness. A temporal computed tomography scan showed left opacity of the middle ear. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) excluded cholesteatomatous otitis, and constructive interference steady state (CISS) sequence revealed intense labyrinthine enhancement. Otorrhea sample culture isolated Pseudomonas aeruginosa. She initially received probabilistic intravenous antibiotherapy associating cefotaxime to vancomycin for 17 days, then, we switched to adapt to the antibiogram. She had a total of 25 days of antibiotic therapy and 14 days of corticosteroid treatment. She also benefited of vestibular rehabilitation and hyperbaric oxygenotherapy. The dizziness subsided, but the deafness persisted. Conclusion: Labyrinthitis is increasingly rare in the era of antibiotic therapy. P. aeruginosa is an exceptional germ in this context. MRI is an indispensable tool for the positive and the differential diagnosis.
Is rooting for the US Women’s National Team un-American? Populism and popular misogyny within conservative digital sports media
Authors: Crawford Monica
Published: November 2024

Following Megan Rapinoe’s statement that she would not attend a White House visit under former president Donald Trump, she and the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) have become focal points of right-wing online abuse. To explore the connection between populist style common within right-wing media and the misogynistic treatment of women in sport, this study analyzes the intertwining logics of populist style and popular misogyny within media coverage of the USWNT on two conservative sports media outlets, Barstool Sports and OutKick. The findings indicate that the outlets utilize populist style to construct a cultural identity of their ideal American sports fan that stands at odds with the progressive ideals encompassed within the USWNT, making the team particularly susceptible to popular misogynistic treatment and attacks. As such, a critical analysis of gender must be incorporated into analyses and understandings of populist style.
Performing The Maid's Metamorphosis, then and now
Authors: Lafont Agnès , Reid Lindsay Ann
Published: November 2024

This essay opens by probing what can be extrapolated about the early performance history of the anonymous comedy The Maid's Metamorphosis (1600), performed by the Children of Paul's, based on its title page statement, internal evidence from the play, and contemporary letters. It argues it may have been conceived as part of the nuptial festivities for Anne Russell and Henry Somerset, Lord Herbert (Blackfriars, 16 June 1600). Then, it moves to consider what the recent revival of the play by Edward's Boys (spring 2024), in England and in France, may reveal about the portability of this show.
Can We See Their ID? Measuring Immigrants’ Legal Trajectory: Lessons From a French Survey
Authors: Descamps Julia
Published: November 2024

There is a growing interest in the question of immigrants’ legal trajectories, but there have been few quantitative surveys on the subject, due to the lack of satisfactory data. Most existing statistical studies use biographical surveys where current or past legal status is used as an explanatory variable for studying other social phenomena, but these studies rarely question the quality of that measurement. Some studies quantified the potential biases, but did not qualify them. Reporting legal status can generate defiance when the trajectory is a sensitive issue (social desirability bias). It can be difficult if the migration process is long past (memory bias), or the respondent did not make their application themselves (nonproactivity bias). Using a retrospective biographical survey of about 10,000 immigrants in France, I offer a reflexive analysis of these biases. I show that they are small, the data showing low nonresponse rates, and a remarkable internal and external consistency. Biased responses can be attributed to the difficulty in recalling events, grasping some technical terms, or even to the desire to control one's migratory narrative in a context of downward social status. These results teach us that legal status should more often be included in surveys, which would improve theorization of migrants’ experiences, but also better link these theories with public policies. The results inform us about how immigrants take hold of the official categories, suggesting that they have more expertise and less defiance in reporting them that we could have assumed.
The social-emotional competencies of gifted children must be intentionally developed, ideally in inclusive education contexts
Authors: Elias Maurice J. , Marsili Francesco , Fullmer Lauren , Morganti Annalisa , Bruno Erin
Published: November 2024

Traditionally, giftedness was perceived as a fixed trait, exclusively evaluated through cognitive testing. However, contemporary perspectives view it as a dynamic and socially constructed attribute reflected in many domains. As this paradigm-shift aligns with global movements emphasizing the importance of avoiding labelling students and enhancing the full potential of all students, rather than just a selected few, it puts a spotlight on the social-emotional and character development (SECD) competencies needed to reach one’s potential. What we propose is an educational challenge: to establish increasingly inclusive educational contexts that bring out the potential of all students and extend educational techniques to encompass social-emotional and relational capacities essential for inclusive contexts. This paper introduces teaching techniques that foster these competencies through an SECD framework. This approach not only aims to nurture the potential of gifted individuals but also to cultivate their roles as proactive, engaged community members, emphasizing a comprehensive educational paradigm that integrates SECD into everyday inclusive learning environments.
Public service media as pivotal in combating misinformation and disinformation: prerequisites and approaches
Authors: Sehl Annika
Published: November 2024

The communicative environment of public service media (PSM) has changed considerably due to the digital transformation. This includes the dissemination of misinformation and disinformation on social media platforms, which has the potential to undermine democracy. Against this background, the paper argues that the role of PSM should be expanded beyond the core tasks of high-quality, diverse and impartial reporting. PSM should increasingly also act as institutions that monitor social media, evaluate, and validate external information. In addition, they should engage in enhancing media literacy and developing genuine PSM platforms. The paper discusses the opportunities and limitations of each approach and addresses prerequisites for PSM, such as political independence and societal trust. It thus contributes to the understanding how PSM can continue to fulfil their democratic role under new conditions.
Extended use of axillary impella 5.5 as a bridge to post-infarct ventricular septal defect repair
Authors: Gregory Vasiliki , Zias Ariadne , Isath Ameesh , Spielvoge David , Ohira Suguru
Published: November 2024

Post-infarct ventricular septal defect (VSD) carries high mortality. Since emergent repair of post-infarct VSD is challenging, hemodynamic stabilization utilizing temporary mechanical circulatory support crucially provides time to delay intervention and allows necessary scar tissue formation which improves the fragility of myocardium and leads to a definitive repair. To date, there remains no standard for achieving hemodynamic stability, including usage and mode of temporary mechanical circulatory support. We describe a patient with acute post-infarct VSD in cardiogenic shock successfully supported with Impella 5.5 for 67 days as a bridge to surgical repair and coronary artery bypass grafting.
Initial experience with pump controlled retrograde trial-off (PCRTO) veno-arterial extra corporeal membrane oxygenation in children
Authors: Menon Anuradha P , Koh Janine C , Teng Siew Yan , Chan Tanee , Nakao Masakazu
Published: November 2024

Pump Controlled Retrograde Trial Off (PCRTO) is a relatively new technique in trialing-off Veno-Arterial Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO). Literature on the use of PCRTO in children remains scarce. We describe our centre’s initial experience with PCRTO in a neonate and an older child and review its potential advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional weaning methods. More research and shared best practices are required in children to facilitate wider adoption of this technique.
Complication rate with the 1940-nm versus 1470-nm wavelength laser
Authors: Keo Hak Hong , Gondek Karoline , Diehm Nicolas , Leib Christoph , Uthoff Heiko , Engelberger Rolf P , Staub Daniel
Published: November 2024

Background

We hypothesized, that endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) with the highly water specific 1940-nm wavelength laser would reduce ablation-related thrombus extension (ARTE) incidence compared to the less specific 1470-nm laser.

Materials and methods

Between February 2017 to March 2023 we identified a consecutive series of patients undergoing EVLA from the prospectively ongoing VEINOVA registry. Patients were treated with the 1940-nm or 1470-nm laser. Demographic data and outcome data were used for this retrospective analysis.

Results

From a total of 3055 EVLA, 2006 procedures were performed with the1470-nm and 1049 with the 1940-nm laser. At 2–6 days follow- up visit (follow up visit 1), all ARTE occurred in 18 (0.9%) of all procedures with the 1470-nm and in 1 (0.1%) with the 1940-nm laser ( p = 0.023). DVT was similar in both groups (0.3% vs 0.2%, p = 0.784). Phlebitis occurred in 67 (3.3%) of all procedures with the 1470-nm and in 2 (0.2%; p = 0.003) with the 1940-nm laser and paresthesia in 99 (4.9%) versus 5 (0.5%; p < 0.001), respectively. At 5–6 weeks follow-up (follow up visit 2), all ARTE occurred in 27 (1.4%) of all procedures with the 1470-nm and in 4 (0.4%; p = 0.010) with the 1940-nm laser. DVT was similar in both groups (0.7% vs 0.4%; p = 0.846). Phlebitis occurred in 97 (4.8%) of all procedures with the 1470-nm and in 9 (0.9%; p < 0.001) with the 1940-nm laser and paresthesia in 194 (9.7%) versus 35 (3.3%; p < 0.001), respectively. Occlusion rate was in both groups similar (99.8% vs 99.6%).

Conclusion

EVLA using the 1940-nm laser appears to be safe with lower ARTE incidence than using the 1470-nm laser. Phlebitis and paresthesia occurred less frequent with the 1940-nm than with the 1470-nm laser, thus favoring the use of the 1940-nm laser.
Seasonal Adjustment of Infra-Monthly Time Series with JDemetra+
Authors: Webel Karsten , Smyk Anna
Published: November 2024

Both the ongoing digital transformation in many statistical agencies around the world and the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in 2020 have increased the recognition of and demand for infra-monthly economic time series in official statistics during the past decade. Infra-monthly data often display complex forms of seasonality, such as superimposed seasonal patterns with potentially fractional periodicities, that prevent the application of traditional modeling and seasonal adjustment approaches. For that reason, JDemetra+, the official software for harmonized seasonal adjustments of monthly and quarterly data in Europe, has been augmented recently with several methods tailored to the specifics of infra-monthly data. This includes a modified TRAMO-like routine for data pretreatment and extended versions of the ARIMA model-based and X-11 seasonal adjustment approaches alongside the classic STL method. These methods can be accessed through either the graphical user interface or an R package suite, which also provides additional routines for structural time series modeling. We give a comprehensive description of all those methods and discuss the theoretical properties of their key modifications. Selected capabilities are then illustrated using daily births in France, hourly realized electricity consumption in Germany, and weekly initial claims for unemployment insurance in the United States.
Aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder triggered by herpes zoster: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hua Yingjie , Xu Andi , Huang Huifen , Xia Shuiwei , Chen Junlin , Lu Siyu , Huang Xufang , Zhao Zhongwei , Wu Dan
Published: November 2024

This paper presents the case of a 45-year-old woman who developed aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) approximately 6 weeks after a herpes zoster infection. Her initial symptoms included area postrema syndrome, which was marked by persistent nausea, vomiting, and belching. This report also provides a summary of the demographic and clinical features, disease progression, magnetic resonance imaging findings, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, treatment plans, and recovery outcomes of 11 patients—including this case and 10 others reported in the literature since 2008—who developed AQP4 antibody-positive NMOSD following herpes zoster infection. This review aims to improve clinicians’ understanding of the characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of this disease. It also highlights the importance for pain management specialists to consider central pain and use the MIDNIGHTS or VINDψCATE mnemonic devices to systematically consider the differential diagnoses of a patient’s new pain symptoms.
Imperial Satire Redux: A Political Reading of Dryden's ‘Discourse’ on Satire
Authors: Sperrin Dan
Published: November 2024

Dryden's 'Discourse Concerning the Original and Progress of Satire' has long been seen as one of the most important and influential accounts of satire and its history in English literature. Historians, editors, and critics have admired and contested Dryden's account of satire's pre-history, etymology, and ‘progress’, finding in this intricate text a whole tissue of challenging ideas about satire as a literary form. However, the political purposes of the Discourse (in its immediate context) remain exceptionally difficult to bring into focus. For all the clarity with which we can see what Dryden was saying about satire, it has always been quite unclear as to why he was saying it in the first place. Assuming Dryden's rationality and command of the intellectual resources, this article offers a very different reading of the Discourse as a politically motivated intervention post-1688 discussions about literary satire, and as an attempt to reset the form along ancient lines for Tory satirists excluded from the centre of public life by the Glorious Revolution.
To empower or constrain? How emergent interest representation transformed workers’ collective action in South China
Authors: Wenten Frido
Published: November 2024

It is commonly assumed that the best way to strengthen workers’ voice in authoritarian contexts such as China is through the institutionalisation of collective interest representation. This article argues that this assumption oversimplifies and exaggerates the gains that can be expected, particularly when workers have previous experience in taking other forms of collective action. Revisiting the aftermath of the watershed 2010 strike wave in South China, it shows that trade union and collective bargaining reforms have had two constraining effects for workers. First, they were designed to curb rank-and-file activism; and second, they forced worker representatives to moderate their demands and practices. The article argues that these constraints are inherent in collective interest representation. In doing so, it challenges the prevailing consensus that collective interest representation strengthens labour voice in China, and two derived assumptions: the attribution of constraints on workers’ voice to authoritarianism; and the inferiority of autonomous forms of collective action to collective interest representation. These challenges are contextually supported by the failure of trade union and collective bargaining reforms to match the material and institutional gains achieved by workers’ autonomous action during the status ante. The article suggests that collective interest representation should be assigned a more modest role in the pursuit of labour voice, and that research should instead be recalibrated towards the study of different forms, logics and effects of workers’ collective action.
Mechanical and dynamic characteristics for the CFRP, GFRP, and hybrid composites exposed to HCl environment
Authors: Coskun Taner , Sozen Betul , Kapıcı Serkan , Sahin Omer Sinan
Published: November 2024

In the current study, the low-velocity impact (LVI) characteristics of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP), and hybrid composites before and after the corrosive environment exposure were investigated. In this regard, CFRP, GFRP, and hybrid composites were subjected to LVI and tensile loadings after being kept in a 10% diluted HCl environment for 1 week and 1 month, and the impacts of the corrosive environment on the composites’ dynamic and mechanical responses were determined by comparing the outcomes of the control and aged specimens. LVI tests for CFRP, GFRP, and hybrid composites were carried out by transferring 25.2 and 11.2 J impact energy to the specimens with two impact velocities of 3 and 2 m/s, respectively, and thus, the effects of impact energy and hybridization were investigated. Moreover, tensile tests were conducted for the control and aged specimens with 2 mm/min crosshead speed, and thus, the effects of fiber material, hybridization, and corrosive environment on the mechanical properties were determined. The study found that CFRP composites had higher stiffness than GFRPs, whereas hybrid composites exhibited dynamic responses between CFRP and GFRP, as expected. On the other hand, it turned out that the composites absorbed most of the impact energy, which was interpreted as being absorbed by the damage of fiber-reinforced composites, which stand out with their brittle characteristics. Furthermore, it was discovered that the damage severity elevated as expected with a longer aging time, which was attributed to the corrosive liquid attacking the fibers, matrix, and fiber/matrix interfaces and reducing strength. It was also observed that, as predicted, the corrosive effects generally resulted in a reduction in tensile responses, including ultimate strain and tensile strength.
Psychometric Properties of the Basic Needs Satisfaction in General Scale: A Second-Order CFA Analysis
Authors: Sharmin Shaila , Tran Minh-Hao D. , Fan Weihua , Arbona Consuelo , Master Allison , Zou Yali
Published: November 2024

The study examined the psychometric structure of Basic Needs Satisfaction in General Scale (BNSG-S) with a sample of 495 college students. It compared the original 21-item version (Gagné, 2003) with the shortened 16-item version (Johnston & Finney, 2010), both with and without method effects. A series of confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) suggested a three-factor CFA model with method effect using the 16-item version showed acceptable model-data fit. However, the high correlations among factors posed threats to the discriminant validity. To address the multicollinearity among the factors, our study proposed and tested a second-order CFA model with method effect based on the 16-item shortened version of BNSG-S, which provided good model-data fit. Additionally, Cronbach’s alpha and omega coefficients demonstrated satisfactory reliability. These results supported a higher-order factor structure of the 16-item version, suggesting the needs satisfaction may be interconnected and influenced by a broader overarching factor.
On the menu: Academic managerialism and critical theory
Authors: Truscott Ross , Khoo Su-Ming
Published: November 2024

This paper is concerned with managerialism in universities. It focuses on the way compliance with widely criticised aspects of managerialism—above all, auditing as the dominant form of accountability—is compelled by what Peter Miller and Nikolas Rose call ‘psychotherapeutic authority.’ We offer a reading of two deployments of ‘psychotherapeutic authority.’ The first is the recently published Impossible Bosses: Secret Strategies to Deal with Eight Archetypal Managers, a Jungian self-help book written by a university deputy vice chancellor, a corporate executive, and a management consultant. We read the book in the context of a managerialism losing legitimacy, especially but not only in universities. We place Impossible Bosses alongside Theodor Adorno's Minima Moralia, which similarly deploys ‘psychotherapeutic authority’ but with very different aims in the context of a mid-twentieth century Anglo-European world attempting to ward off lingering and latent fascist tendencies. While Impossible Bosses aims for the conversion of unhappy workers into capable, self-actualising neoliberal managers, Minima Moralia seeks from its readers an acknowledgment that ‘wrong life cannot be lived rightly.’ To get at why and how Adorno's ‘melancholy science’ holds greater hope for universities today than the buoyant optimism of Impossible Bosses, we contrast the different concepts of the unconscious with which they work. Because Adorno's concept of the unconscious is one comprised of ‘social forces’ rather than ‘primordial images,’ it is one on which work becomes possible, even if that work will inevitably be commoditised, will end up on the managerial menu for consumption.
Palliative Homecare in Chronic Liver Disease: A Cohort Analysis of Factors and Outcomes Associated with Home Palliative Care in Patients with End-Stage Liver Disease
Authors: Oliveira Hugo M. , Rocha Céu , Rego Maria Francisca , Nunes Rui
Published: November 2024

Objective: The prevalence and mortality of chronic liver disease has risen significantly. In end-stage liver disease (ESLD), the survival of patients is approximately 2 years. Despite the poor prognosis and high symptom burden, integration of palliative care in ESLD is reduced, and the majority of patients continue to die in inpatient care. We aim to assess predictors and outcomes of home palliative care, as well as factors associated with death at home in patients with ESLD. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of patients with ESLD, followed by a palliative care team between 2017 and 2022. Information regarding patient demographics, ESLD etiology, decompensations, and interventions was collected. Two-sided tests were used to identify factors associated with home palliative care. Results: We analyzed 75 patients: 44% had home palliative care and 33% died at home. ESLD patients with home palliative care were older (72.52 vs 64.45; p = 0.002), had a longer palliative care intervention time (149.97 ± 196.23 vs 43.69 ± 100.60 days; p = 0.007), higher rates of ascites or hepatic encephalopathy (χ2 = 11.024; p = 0.029), and hepatocarcinoma (90.9% vs 64.3%; p = 0.007). Patients with home palliative care had a reduction in-hospital admissions (2.61 vs 1.06; p = 0.000) and a greater probability of death at home (66.7% vs 33.3%; p = 0.000). Patients who died at home (33.3%) were older (72.20 vs 64.40; p = 0.000) and had longer palliative care intervention time (178.80 ± 211.78 vs 46.28 ± 99.67 days; p = 0.006). Conclusion: Home palliative care in ESLD differs based on demographics and disease complications, with a positive impact of homecare translated into a reduction in hospital admissions and an increased probability of death at home.
The Gendered, Misogynoiristic, and Colonial Genocidal Logics of Strip Searching
Authors: Hutchison Jessica
Published: November 2024

Women with lived experience of strip searching have been calling for it to be banned as a practice for decades; however, it remains a routine practice in carceral settings such as prisons and jails. Given the mass incarceration of Indigenous women and disproportionate rate of Black women in federal prisons in Canada, a misogynoiristic and gendered anticolonial analysis of strip searching is warranted. Thus, this paper shares findings from conversations with 23 previously incarcerated women, the majority of whom are Black and Indigenous, about their experiences of being strip searched in prisons. The main theme throughout the conversations was that strip searching is sexual violence by the state. Furthermore, the harms of strip searching are gendered in that women are forced to remove their tampons and pads during menstruation to show guards. The paper also elucidates the ways in which strip searching enacts misogynoiristic and colonial genocidal logics historically rooted in projects such as Indian Residential Schools and the enslavement of Black women. It ends with a call for abolition feminist social work praxis by meeting the direct needs of women who are strip searched while also advocating for it to be banned as a practice.