bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on vibration characteristics of cone valve based on steady state hydrodynamics
Authors: Liu Jilu , Yang Gang , Li Baoren , Chu Jingrui , Zhao Zhixi , Yuan Chang
Published: April 2024

The steady-state fluid dynamic force of the cone valve core reduces the stability of the cone valve, thereby affecting its vibration characteristics. This study first derived the formula for calculating the steady-state fluid dynamic force of the valve core using the momentum theorem. Then, the study used the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method to explore the variation of steady-state fluid dynamic force with the opening degree of the cone valve and the pressure difference at the inlet and outlet. The study also analyzed the steady-state fluid dynamic force of the improved structure cone valve. Combining the CFD calculation results with the established axial vibration and dynamic models of the valve core spring system, a system dynamics simulation model was developed. Innovatively, the study combined experimental and simulation methods to investigate the vibration characteristics of the cone valve and the impact of steady-state fluid dynamic force on these characteristics. The experimental results aligned well with the simulation results, showing that the influence of steady-state fluid dynamic force on vibration characteristics is similar to that of spring force. At a small opening degree, the compensation structure of steady-state fluid dynamic force can reduce axial vibration amplitude. Increasing the inlet pressure from 2.0 MPa to 2.5 MPa results in a decrease in axial amplitude and an increase in the numerical value of the vibration balance position. Increasing the outlet pressure from 0.5 MPa to 0.9 MPa initially decreases axial amplitude and axial waveform factor, followed by an increase. Increasing the spring preload from 9.4 mm to 13.4 mm leads to a decrease in the numerical value of the balance position, a reduction in amplitude, and a decrease in the waveform factor of the axial vibration of the valve core. The study reveals systematic effects of inlet pressure, outlet pressure, and spring preload on the vibration characteristics of the cone valve. The research results in this paper can provide theoretical support for the structural design of hydraulic valves, reduce the impact of fluid dynamics on vibration, and thereby improve the stability of hydraulic system operation.
Inverse dynamics based aerodynamic, gyroscopic, and rotor effects’ compensation in constrained trajectory synthesis for multi-copters
Authors: Liu Tsung-Liang , Subbarao Kamesh
Published: April 2024

The performance of an uncrewed aerial system (UAS) operating nominally in an indoor/outdoor environment depends upon the available power, and how well the system reacts to disturbances and nonlinear dynamic effects. This paper focuses on development of approaches to compensate for nonlinear dynamic effects due to aerodynamics, gyroscopic coupling, and rotor induced rolling effects in deriving aggressive multi-copter trajectories. A thrust constrained multi-copter is adopted for verifying the compensation, that is achieved through an optimal trajectory synthesis formulation. It is shown that the compensation approach yields precise and aggressive trajectory tracking for the multi-copter flight in and out of indoor environments, such as windows and other constrained openings.
A combined experimental and computational investigation of an inducer’s characteristics with gas-water two-phase flow
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Yong , Liu Houlin , Lv Lilin , Mao Yanhong , Jiang Linglin
Published: April 2024

The objective of the paper is to investigate the internal flow characteristics inside the inducer under the gas-water condition using a combination of experiment and numerical simulations. Gas-water mixing is achieved by an annular gas mixing device and visualized by high-speed imaging technology. Meanwhile, the shear stress transport (SST) k- ω model coupled with the VOF model is applied to investigate the gas phase distribution. Numerically simulated inducer energy characteristics and internal gas-phase distribution are in good agreement with experimental data. The results show that the mixed gas-liquid flow inside the inducer exhibits three flow patterns: wavy flow, bubbly flow, and plug flow. For the wavy flow, a series of wavy structures on the blade surface and gas-pocket bubbles near the blade rim are observed. From wavy flow to bubbly flow, uniform bubble streams on the blade surface and spiraling strip bubbles near the edge of the blade are observed. For plug flow, bubble accumulation results in a bullet-shaped plug, and the strip-shaped bubbles near the blade rim are more obvious. In the same axial position of the inducer, the proportion of gas phase is increasing as the flow coefficient increases, thus affecting the inducer performance. The main frequency amplitude of the pressure pulsations gradually rise when the flow pattern changes from wavy to plug flow.
Asymmetric Nexus Between Industrial Production and Carbon Emissions: Empirics from Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Abdul-Mumuni Abdallah , Amoh John Kwaku , Musah Abubakar
Published: April 2024

While previous panel studies have focused on the linear specifications of the industrial production-carbon emissions nexus, nonlinear panel studies on this relationship remain thin on the ground. This article examines the asymmetric nexus between industrial production and carbon emissions in 30 selected Sub-Saharan African countries spanning from 1990 to 2019. In the presence of cross-sectional dependence, the second-generation unit root tests were applied to examine the unit-root properties. The cointegration tests results confirm the presence of a long-run relationship among the variables. Finally, we employed the panel nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag approach to estimate the coefficient values. Generally, the empirical findings demonstrate that industrial production asymmetrically influences carbon emissions both in the short and long-runs. Specifically, the long-run estimates indicate that a positive shock in industrial production of 1% induces an increase in carbon emissions by 0.213%, while a negative shock induces a 0.390% decrease in carbon emissions. Based on these results, there is a need for policymakers in the selected Sub-Saharan African countries to consider the asymmetric behavior of industrial production while formulating industrialization policies. These policies should also be based on the condition of adopting green technology forms of energy.

JEL Classification O14, Q5, Q54
Histologic characterization of spontaneous catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy in laboratory New Zealand White rabbits
Authors: Reed Scott D.
Published: April 2024

Catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy (CCM) is an entity associated with increased levels of catecholamines causing subendocardial and papillary muscle cardiomyocyte degeneration and necrosis. In 2020, 49 autopsies from early rabbit deaths in a colony used for medical device biocompatibility studies were submitted for microscopic examination. Of the 49 rabbits, 26 had histologic changes consistent with CCM. No common stressor for CCM was determined in affected rabbits. Animals were generally male, were 12–16-wk-old, and were found dead or had bloating, lethargy, and/or diarrhea. Those observed with clinical signs were euthanized and autopsied per the organization’s standard operating procedures. Heart lesions consisted of various degrees of apical subendocardial myocardial degeneration and necrosis. Common non-cardiac lesions included pulmonary congestion and edema, hepatic congestion and centrilobular hepatocellular degeneration, and/or variable intestinal submucosal edema.
CONFINTEA VII and the Call to Climate Action: Clarifying Roles for Adult Learning and Education
Authors: Griswold Wendy
Published: April 2024

Climate change and climate education concern more than climate and the environment, as our social and economic systems both rely upon and are impacted by climate and environment. We cannot address the human impact on our global climate and local environments without several nations reconstructing their social and economic systems to be equitable and inclusive. According to several key global guidance documents related to adult learning and education (ALE) and climate education, adult educators have significant roles in developing learners capable of engaging in climate and environmental action. However, defining climate education and roles for adult educators is not well-defined or explicit. To gain clarity in how ALE providers can facilitate learners’ understanding of how social/political, economic, and natural systems intersect to create and perpetuate the oppression, marginalization, and destruction of humans and the world upon which we depend, a close review of global guidance documents is warranted. This article analyzes key documents, such as the Marrakech Framework for Action (MFA), Education for Sustainable Development: A roadmap (ESD for 2030), and the International Council for Adult Education Spotlight Report for CONFINTEA VII. This process resulted in clarification of the definition of climate education from an ALE perspective and suggestions of explicit roles for ALE providers in the realm of climate education.
Chromophobe Renal Cell Carcinoma With Extensive Retraction Artifact: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall From Micropapillary Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Sangoi Ankur R. , Pivovarcikova Kristyna , Akgul Mahmut , Williamson Sean R. , Ulamec Monica , Rogala Joanna Dominica , Martinek Petr , Vanecek Tomas , Hes Ondrej , Alaghehbandan Reza
Published: April 2024

In addition to “classic” and eosinophilic subtype, chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is well-known to demonstrate various morphological patterns including adenomatoid, microcystic, pigmented, multicystic, papillary, neuroendocrine-like, and small cell-like, all of which are important to appreciate for accurate diagnosis. Herein, we expand on a unique chromophobe RCC morphology not previously described consisting of tumor cells with extensive stromal retraction, mimicking upper urothelial tract micropapillary carcinoma (MPC). Twelve MPC-like chromophobe RCC nephrectomies were reviewed with clinicopathological features recorded; molecular testing was performed on 7 of 12 tumors. Patients were mostly men (n=10) with a mean age of 65 years. Mean tumor size was 6.4 cm with pathological stage distribution as follows: 4 (33%) T1a, 2 (17%) T1b, 1 (8%) T2b, and 3 (25%) T3a. The extent of MPC-like chromophobe RCC foci ranged from 10% to 40% (mean=26%; there was no correlation between the extent of MPC-like chromophobe RCC foci and tumor stage). Other chromophobe RCC morphological patterns were not identified. When performed, all (100%) tumors depicted prototypic chromophobe RCC staining pattern of KIT positivity/KRT7 positivity. Molecular showed 6 of 7 (86%) with multiple chromosomal losses. Clinically significant mutations were identified in NF1, TP53, FLCN (likely somatic), CHEK2, and ZFHX3 genes. Follow up available in 9 patients showed no evidence of disease (mean=23 months). Although the etiology behind the extensive stromal retraction in our tumors is unknown, this may likely be artifactual in nature. Nonetheless, it is important to include MPC-like chromophobe RCC in the spectrum of “variant” morphologies to avoid diagnostic pitfalls from micropapillary carcinoma.
Incidence of avascular necrosis of native femur following hip transposition surgery for periacetabular malignancies: a single-centre experience
Authors: Nischal Neha , Kurisunkal Vineet , Jeys Lee , Davies Mark , Botchu Rajesh
Published: April 2024

Background:

Hip transposition surgery after surgical resection of large pelvic tumours is a well-established alternate to endoprosthetic reconstruction. The major goals of surgery are to ensure adequate resection margins with limb salvation, albeit with acceptable levels of morbidity. While surveillance is aimed at diagnosing local recurrence or distant metastasis primarily, other complications may occasionally be seen. The aim of this study was to assess incidence of avascular necrosis (AVN) in the preserved native femoral heads after hip transposition surgery for periacetabular malignancies, also known as hanging hip surgery.

Patients and methods:

Patient records and follow-up imaging of 22 patients who had undergone hanging hip surgery from 1999 to 2020 were retrospectively analysed to assess for any probable causes of AVN.

Results:

Of the 22 patients, 5 (22.7%) had developed AVN on follow-up with a mean time of onset of about 10.5 months from surgery (5 months–2 years). A review of the patient demographics, surgical notes, preoperative management did not offer any clues as to the cause of AVN in these patients. Osteopenia was the most common radiological finding (59%) in most patients, but this also did not herald AVN onset.

Conclusions:

The theory that loss of major vascular supply to the femoral head from capsular disruption during hip transposition surgery would lead to AVN in most patients did not hold true as AVN occurred in a small number of patients.
Patient-reported outcome differences for navigated and robot-assisted total hip arthroplasty frequently do not achieve clinically important differences: a systematic review
Authors: Lawrence Kyle W , Rajahraman Vinaya , Meftah Morteza , Rozell Joshua C , Schwarzkopf Ran , Arshi Armin
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) using computer-assisted navigation (N-THA) and robot-assisted surgery (RA-THA) has been increasingly adopted to improve implant positioning and offset/leg-length restoration. Whether clinically meaningful differences in patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) compared to conventional THA (C-THA) are achieved with intraoperative technology has not been established. This systematic review aimed to assess whether published relative PROM improvements with technology use in THA achieved minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs).

Methods:

PubMed/MEDLINE/Cochrane Library were systematically reviewed for studies comparing PROMs for primary N-THA or RA-THA with C-THA as the control group. Relative improvement differences between groups were compared to established MCID values. Reported clinical and radiographic differences were assessed. Review of N-THA and RA-THA literature yielded 6 ( n  = 2580) and 10 ( n  = 2786) studies, respectively, for analyses.

Results:

Statistically significant improvements in postoperative PROM scores were reported in 2/6 (33.3%) studies comparing N-THA with C-THA, though only 1 (16.7%) reported clinically significant relative improvements. Statistically significant improvements in postoperative PROMs were reported in 6/10 (60.0%) studies comparing RA-THA and C-THA, though none reported clinically significant relative improvements. Improved radiographic outcomes for N-THA and RA-THA were reported in 83.3% and 70.0% of studies, respectively. Only 1 study reported a significant improvement in revision rates with RA-THA as compared to C-THA.

Conclusions:

Reported PROM scores in studies comparing N-THA or RA-THA to C-THA often do not achieve clinically significant relative improvements. Future studies reporting PROMs should be interpreted in the context of validated MCID values to accurately establish the clinical impact of intraoperative technology.
Pilot study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of etidronate treatment for arterial calcification due to deficiency of CD73 (ACDC)
Authors: Ferrante Elisa A , Cudrici Cornelia D , Rashidi Mahmood , Fu Yi-Ping , Huffstutler Rebecca , Carney Katherine , Chen Marcus Y , St Hilaire Cynthia , Smith Kevin , Bagheri Hadi , Katz James D , Ferreira Carlos R , Gahl William A , Boehm Manfred , Brofferio Alessandra
Published: April 2024

Background:

Arterial calcification due to deficiency of CD73 (ACDC; OMIM 211800) is a rare genetic disease resulting in calcium deposits in arteries and small joints causing claudication, resting pain, severe joint pain, and deformities. Currently, there are no standard treatments for ACDC. Our previous work identified etidronate as a potential targeted ACDC treatment, using in vitro and in vivo disease models with patient-derived cells. In this study, we test the safety and effectiveness of etidronate in attenuating the progression of lower-extremity arterial calcification and vascular blood flow based on the computed tomography (CT) calcium score and ankle–brachial index (ABI).

Methods:

Seven adult patients with a confirmed genetic diagnosis of ACDC were enrolled in an open-label, nonrandomized, single-arm pilot study for etidronate treatment. They took etidronate daily for 14 days every 3 months and were examined at the NIH Clinical Center bi-annually for 3 years. They received a baseline evaluation as well as yearly follow up after treatment. Study visits included imaging studies, exercise tolerance tests with ABIs, clinical blood and urine testing, and full dental exams.

Results:

Etidronate treatment appeared to have slowed the progression of further vascular calcification in lower extremities as measured by CT but did not have an effect in reversing vascular and/or periarticular joint calcifications in our small ACDC cohort.

Conclusions:

Etidronate was found to be safe and well tolerated by our patients and, despite the small sample size, appeared to show an effect in slowing the progression of calcification in our ACDC patient cohort. (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT01585402)
Emerging penality: Shifting ideologies, reconciliations and clashes
Authors: Jalili-Idrissi Arta
Published: April 2024

Drawing on ethnographic research in the only women's prison in Latvia, this article examines the impact of the ideological shift from socialism to neoliberalism on the way women's imprisonment operates. The aim is to provide a more nuanced understanding of how the transition from the Soviet regime to a market-led neoliberal economy has impacted women's imprisonment in the Global East, while challenging the neglect of this area by mainstream criminological scholarship. The ideological rupture introduced ‘governing through freedom’, which has currently resulted in a sophisticated amalgam of penal power fusing the Soviet legacy, which informs the ‘eastern soft power’, a rights-based approach and other western influences such as sentence planning based on inmate risks and needs. These developments have significantly transformed the power dynamics in a Latvia women's prison. On the one hand, these changes have improved staff–prisoner relationships and assisted the implementation of international rules for the treatment of prisoners while on the other, they have led to more complex, individualized and distant relationships between the women prisoners.
Crashworthiness performance of double-hat column made of anisotropic sheet metals under axial impact load
Authors: Aziz Ali , Pulungan Ditho , Afdhal  , Gunawan Leonardo , Dirgantara Tatacipta
Published: April 2024

This study aims to observe the crashworthiness performance of a double-hat column constructed from anisotropic sheet metals under axial impact conditions. The predicted crashworthiness parameters obtained from numerical simulations were compared with experimental data. Anisotropy was discerned through the examination of three material orientations. The effects of viscoplasticity were rigorously investigated under both quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions. Anisotropy notably exerted a pronounced influence on crucial metrics such as mean crushing force, maximum crushing force, and specific energy absorption. Furthermore, the viscoplastic behavior of the column substantially augmented the structural response, particularly under dynamic loading scenarios. Notably, the anisotropic-viscoplastic model exhibited superior accuracy compared to its isotropic counterpart, thereby underscoring its efficacy in capturing intricate material characteristics. This study underscores the critical significance of accounting for geometric imperfections to ensure precise predictions of deformation shapes and crashworthiness performance.
Bad avocados, culinary standards, and knowable knowledge. Culturally appropriate rejections of meat reduction
Authors: Skelly Thomas A.M. , Ditlevsen Kia
Published: April 2024

Cultural conventions are central to tackling unsustainable consumption. In the Global North food conventions are increasingly contested due to the political importance of climate change and the share of global greenhouse gas emissions tied to animal food production and consumption. Significant reductions in meat consumption are touted as pathways to adaptation, but most consumers remain committed to consuming meat-based meals and diets with meat. To explore how consumers handle these issues in today’s cultural context, this article examines culturally appropriate ways of rejecting meat reduction. The theoretical framework is based on interactionism and accounts. The empirical material is from focus group discussions with Danish consumers. We find that in discussions about using plant-based meat, norms of proper culinary conduct are held to be more pressing guides for normative assessment than climate impacts. We also show that the status and function of climate impact “knowledge” is complex and ambiguous. A shared social knowledge of the climate impacts of meat consumption appears to exist alongside “questionable knowledge” and “lack of knowledge”, both of which are referred to excuse, justify, and charge others in reasoning supporting continued meat consumption. Knowledge of climate impacts is accepted when it fits cultural conventions but appears less knowable if it poses challenges to contemporary consumer culture. The article contributes insights into the ways in which cultural conventions and complex knowledge negotiations help to preserve unsustainable consumption.
“Speak For Yourself”: Fox Sports 1, Reframing Sporting Conservatism, and “Sticking to Sports” in the Age of Trump
Authors: Henry Taylor M.
Published: April 2024

This article analyzes the Fox Sports 1 sports debate program Speak for Yourself. The article analyzes the thematic frames the show utilizes to espouse and reinforce sport as a site of conservative value-making and male bonding. In using an interracial male pairing of Colin Cowherd and Jason Whitlock, the show mimics similarly popular debate programs on rival network ESPN, such as Pardon the Interruption and First Take. However, Whitlock in particular advances a unique brand of Black conservatism, and his clashes with progressive activists and other black guests represent intraracial tensions among Black sport media members. This paper argues Speak for Yourself brings Newscorp’s conservative messaging to a nominally apolitical space in sport media.
Blind Spots in Development of Nanomedicines
Authors: Salvi Bhagyashree V. , Kantak Maithali , Kharangate Kalyani , Trotta Francesco , Maher Timothy , Shende Pravin
Published: April 2024

The field of nanomedicine demonstrates immense advantages and noteworthy expansion compared to conventional drug delivery systems like tablet, capsules, etc. Despite the innumerable advantages, it holds certain shortcomings in the form of blind spots that need to be assessed before the successful clinical translation. This perspective highlights the foremost blind spots in nanomedicine and emphasizes the challenges faced before the entry into the market, including the need for provision of safety and efficacy data by the regulatory agencies like FDA. The significant revolution of nanomedicine in the human life, particularly in patient well-being, necessitates to identify the blind spots and overcome them for effective management and treatment of ailments.
Efficiency of Protective Interventions on Irinotecan-Induced Diarrhea: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: He Yanxi , Wu Lili , Qi Xiaoyi , Wang Xuan , He Bing , Zhang Wei , Zhao Wenjing , Deng Mingming , Xiong Xia , Wang Yu , Liang Sicheng
Published: April 2024

Background:

Irinotecan is widely used in the treatment of various solid tumors, but the adverse effects from it, especially diarrhea, limit its use. Several clinical trials of prophylactic treatment of irinotecan-induced diarrhea (IID) have been ongoing, and some of the data are controversial. This encouraged us to conduct a meta-analysis of the effects of interventions on preventing IID.

Method:

This systematic review was conducted based on the PRISMA statement. We performed literature searches from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The number registered in PROSPERO is CRD42022368633. After searching 1034 articles in the database and references, 8 studies were included in this meta-analysis.

Result:

The RR of high-grade diarrhea and all-grade diarrhea were 0.31 ( I2 = 51%, 95% CI: 0.14-0.69; P = .004) and .76 ( I2 = 65%, 95% CI: 0.62-0.93; P < .008) respectively, thus the use of intervention measures for preventing IID is effective, and the risk reduction of high-grade diarrhea was more significant. Subgroup analysis revealed that the monotherapy group (RR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.21-1.13, I2 = 0%) and combination therapy group (RR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.06-0.32, I2 = 0%) in the risk of high-grade diarrhea had no significant heterogeneity within the groups, and traditional herbal medicines (Kampo medicine Hangeshashin-to, PHY906 and hot ironing with Moxa Salt Packet on Tianshu and Shangjuxu) were effective preventive measures (RR:0.20, 95% CI: 0.07-0.60, I2 = 0%). The Jadad scores for traditional herbal medicines studies were 3, and the follow-up duration was only 2 to 6 weeks.

Conclusion:

This systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that preventive treatments significantly reduced the risk of high-grade and all-grade diarrhea, confirming the efficacy in the incidence and severity of IID, among which traditional herbal medicines (baicalin-containing) provided a protective effect in reducing the severity of IID. However, the traditional herbal medicines studies were of low quality. Combined irinotecan therapy can obtain better preventive effects than monotherapy of IID. These would be helpful for the prevention of IID in clinical practice.
The regional integration transition of China’s immigration policy: The case of Yiwu
Authors: Xu Lingyu
Published: April 2024

By examining the immigration policies of Yiwu, one of China’s international trade cities, this article observes a policy transition from how to control immigrants to how to integrate them. To explain this policy transition, this paper refers to neo-institutionalists’ theory, specifying the institutional setting, judicial organs, and social groups in China’s background. With the case study of Yiwu, it demonstrates that the decentralization from upper-level government to lower-level government on the one hand, and the horizontal reform within local government itself on the other, are the decisive factors in the changing immigration policies. Judicial organs, especially the court, are cooperating with government-organized non-governmental organizations (GONGOs) in their foreign-related litigation and mediation. At the community level, the “contracting out” of public services gives non-government organized social groups opportunities to participate in community management.
Central Auditory Changes Associated with Age-related Hearing Loss
Authors: Gürkan Selhan , Başokçu Oğuz , Durankaya Serpil Mungan , İşler Yalçın , Kırkım Günay
Published: April 2024

Objective. This study aimed to investigate age-related changes in cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs) while considering three crucial factors: aging, high-frequency hearing loss and sensation level of the CAEP stimulus. Method. The electrophysiological and audiometric data of 71 elderly participants were analyzed using multiple regression analysis to investigate the association of CAEPs with the factors of aging, high-frequency hearing loss and sensation level of the CAEP test stimulus. Results. Aging was significantly associated with prolonged N1 and P2 latencies and reduced P2 amplitude. Elevated thresholds related to the sensation level of the CAEP stimulus were significantly associated with increased N1 and P2 amplitudes and decreased N1 latency. A significant relationship was detected between high-frequency hearing thresholds and the shortening of P2 latencies and the reduction of P2 amplitudes. Conclusion. The results of this study highlight the complex interplay of aging, high-frequency hearing loss and the sensation level of the CAEP stimulus on CAEP components in elderly people. These factors should be considered in future research using CAEPs to enhance overall understanding of auditory processing in the aging population.
Men With Type II Diabetes in Peru: The Role of Masculine Gender Norms in the Perception of Family Support
Authors: Ferrazza Isabella , Pesantes M. Amalia
Published: April 2024

Type II diabetes is increasingly becoming a problem in Latin American countries such as Peru. People living with diabetes must incorporate several behavioral changes in their everyday lives, which are done outside the purview of medical professionals. Support from friends and family members is essential to the successful management of any chronic condition. Our study discusses the role of family involvement in supporting the management of diabetes among Peruvian men and examines how masculine norms play a role in the way such support is received and perceived, and their influence in motivation to adhere to treatment recommendations. In-depth interviews with 20 men from a low socioeconomic status, aged 27 to 68 with a diagnosis of Type II diabetes were conducted. Our analysis suggests the importance of the close, complex, and integrated experience that connects family members and patients with a chronic condition. Participant accounts demonstrate they receive multiple forms of support from a diverse range of social relationships. The overwhelming majority of the people giving the support were female and were especially significant in supporting management practices. The participants’ accounts were able to demonstrate how living with a chronic condition, such as diabetes, affects the whole family–physically, mentally, and emotionally–and they experience the disease as one unit. Our study demonstrates the need for a family health experience approach that considers masculine gender norms around health and provides relevant insights to inform family-based treatments and therapies to allow for more and better targeted health care for men.
Use of Treatment and Self-Management Methods: Perspectives and Decisions of Patients With Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: DuBois Kelli E. , Blake Christine E. , Rudisill Caroline , Harrison Sayward E. , Hébert James R.
Published: April 2024

Patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) seek a variety of methods to manage the physical and psychosocial burdens of illness on daily life. This study examines how individuals with UC: (1) utilize treatment and self-management methods and (2) make decisions regarding their use of these methods throughout the disease course. Adults living with UC ≥5 years and experienced ≥1 disease flare, participated in individual, semi-structured qualitative interviews. Transcripts were thematically analyzed using a constant comparative approach in NVivo12®. Participants (N = 21) described their decisions to utilize medical, lifestyle, and complementary methods, which were shaped by sources of information, attitudes toward self-management, and personal motivations. The poor quality of life associated with the daily burden of living with UC emerged as a primary motive for exploration and utilization of treatment and management methods. Participants reported primarily utilizing treatment and management methods as reactive responses to flares instead of preventive measures. Results provide insight into patient decision-making and may inform individualized patient care, improve patient–provider communication, and guide interdisciplinary efforts to support self-management among patients with UC. Findings highlight a need for greater focus on promoting preventive self-management lifestyle behaviors to protect against disease activity and progressive impairment.
Decolonial framework for applying reflexivity and positionality in global health research
Authors: Naidu Thirusha , Gingell Gareth , Zaidi Zareen
Published: April 2024

Contemporary research practices link to colonial and imperialist knowledge creation and production and may promote harmful perspectives on marginalized and oppressed groups. We present a framework for a decolonial approach to research in global health and health promotion applicable across research settings. This framework is aimed at anticipating and alleviating potentially harmful practices inherent in dominant research methods. The framework focuses from a macro- and micro-level perspective on three critical dyads: ‘context’ and ‘accountability’; ‘researcher identity’ and ‘positionality’; and ‘procedural ethics’ and ‘ethics in practice’ considerations. We present guidance for how to consider reflexivity and positionality as they apply in this framework in global health and health promotion research practice.
Imaginaries of democratization and the value of open environmental data: Analysis of Microsoft's planetary computer
Authors: Lukacz Przemyslaw Matt
Published: April 2024

The proliferation of environmentally oriented programs within the tech industry, and the industry's coinciding efforts toward data and technology democratization, generate concerns about the status of environmental data within digital economy. While the accumulation of digital personal data has been a cornerstone of domination of the data analytics industry, many believe environmental data to be a source of “untapped potential.” The potential of environmental data, the argument goes, would benefit equally the digital economy, environmental sciences, and academic data and artificial intelligence experts. This article analyzes the proliferation of the rhetoric about open environmental data by focusing on Microsoft's Planetary Computer cloud computing program and computer vision experts who curate and use biodiversity data stored on Microsoft's servers. Through an analytical framework of sociotechnical imaginaries, the article draws connections between visions of future for environmental knowledge production and governance promoted by Microsoft and the work of computer vision experts intending to benefit from the potential of environmental data as machine learning training sets while at the same time helping environmental sciences. Although environmental data on the Planetary Computer is democratized, it nonetheless becomes a valued asset to data economy, but often with unintended consequences, such as enabling citizen science biodiversity data to be used by state surveillance apparatus. The article challenges the view that data's democratization is unproblematically serving environmental sciences by examining the consequences of imaginaries of democratization emerging from the data industry leaders and processes of nonmonetary valuation of environmental data by experts who curate these datasets.
The Under-Developed Social Integration Mechanism as Moderating Factor of Two-Dimensional Absorptive Capacity Relationship: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Pertiwi Asri , Mursitama Tirta Nugraha , Beng Jap Tji , Elidjen
Published: April 2024

The study aims to answer how and what kind of the social integration mechanisms may influence the relationship between the two dimensions of absorptive capacity which is, potential absorptive capacity (PACAP) and realized absorptive capacity (RACAP). The social integration mechanism has been neglected from the discussion on how firm assimilate and transform external knowledge to advance their absorptive capacity. In doing so, we answer recent call for research about a more thorough systematic literature review of the absorptive capacity and social integration mechanisms and its definitions. We surveyed literatures published during the years 2010 to 2020 and only found 8 articles discussing moderating variable between PACAP and RACAP out of 277 articles on absorptive capacity. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate what social integration mechanisms influence the relationship between PACAP and RACAP and how they help overcome barriers to knowledge sharing. The results showed social integration mechanism can be in terms of high commitment works system, knowledge ambiguity, organizational size, relational learning, and cultural balance. Therefore, more research underlines the importance of social integration mechanism should be encouraged.
A Formal Model of Affiliative Interpersonality
Authors: Westermann Stefan , Banisch Sven
Published: April 2024

Capturing the complexity of interpersonal dynamics—emerging from approach and avoidance motives of two individuals in dyadic interplay—remains challenging. In line with calls for embracing complexity in psychological research using formal modeling, we employed evolutionary game theory to investigate the underlying mechanisms of affiliative interpersonality. We constructed a relational state space that represents the ways of relating available in the momentary state of an interpersonal relationship. Next, we modeled relationships as trajectories in that relational space. Qualitatively different interpersonal dynamics emerged: (a) global stability with only one relational attractor (e.g., pure reciprocal friendliness), (b) bistability with two mutually exclusive attractors (e.g., either pure friendliness or pure distance), and (c) cycles between friendliness and distance in the relational space. The bistable dynamics appear to resemble the phenomenon of interpersonal complementarity (e.g., friendliness invites friendliness). Furthermore, the model generates psychopathologically relevant dynamics (e.g., oscillating, unstable interpersonal relationships in borderline personality disorder).
Biomechanical Stability of Third-Generation Adjustable Suture Loop Devices Versus Continuous Loop Button Device for Cortical Fixation of ACL Tendon Grafts
Authors: Deichsel Adrian , Leibrandt Lara , Raschke Michael J. , Klimek Matthias , Oeckenpöhler Simon , Herbst Elmar , Kittl Christoph , Glasbrenner Johannes
Published: April 2024

Background:

Concerns regarding the primary stability of early adjustable loop button (ALB) devices for cortical fixation of tendon grafts in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) have led to the development of new implant designs.

Purpose:

To evaluate biomechanical stability of recent ALB implants in comparison with a continuous loop button (CLB) device.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

ACLR was performed in a porcine model (n = 40) using 2-strand porcine flexor tendons with a diameter of 8 mm. Three ALB devices (Infinity Button [ALB1 group]; Tightrope II RT [ALB2 group]; A-TACK [ALB3 group]) and 1 CLB device (FlippTack with polyethylene suture) were used for cortical tendon graft fixation. Cyclic loading (1000 cycles up to 250 N) with complete unloading were applied to the free end of the tendon graft using a uniaxial testing machine, followed by load to failure. Elongation, stiffness, yield load, and ultimate failure load were recorded and compared between the groups using a Kruskal-Wallis test with post hoc Dunn correction.

Results:

Elongation after 1000 cycles at 250 N was similar between groups (ALB1, 4.5 ± 0.7 mm; ALB2, 4.8 ± 0.8 mm; ALB3, 4.5 ± 0.6 mm; CLB, 4.5 ± 0.8 mm), as was load to failure (ALB1, 838 ± 109 N; ALB2, 930 ± 89 N; ALB3, 809 ± 103 N; CLB, 842 ± 80 N). Stiffness was significantly higher in the ALB1 group compared with the CLB group (262.3 ± 21.6 vs 229.3 ± 15.1 N/mm; P < .05). No significant difference was found between the 4 groups regarding yield load. Constructs failed either by rupture of the loop, breakage of the button, or rupture of the tendon.

Conclusion:

The tested third-generation ALB devices for cortical fixation in ACLR withstood cyclic loading with complete unloading without significant differences to a CLB device.

Clinical Relevance:

The third-generation ALB devices tested in the present study provided biomechanical stability comparable with that of a CLB device. Furthermore, ultimate failure loads of all tested implants exceeded the loads expected to occur in the postoperative period after ACLR.
A Medical Student Obstetric Curriculum Consisting of Online Modules and a Normal Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery Simulation Exercise
Authors: Abraham Cynthia
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

In many medical schools, students are exposed to obstetrics for 2 weeks during the third-year obstetrics and gynecology clerkship. Hence, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a curriculum combining online obstetric modules and a normal spontaneous vaginal delivery (NSVD) simulation on medical student knowledge and comfort pertaining to obstetrics at the start of the clerkship.

METHODS

Students completed the curriculum at the start of the clerkship. They completed questionnaires before and after each module and the simulation. The questionnaires assessed knowledge, management comfort level, and satisfaction with module/simulation. Comfort level and satisfaction scores were based on a 1–5 Likert scale (1 = very uncomfortable/unfavorable, 5 = very comfortable/favorable). Satisfaction scores for online modules were compared with those for a historical cohort of traditional lectures on the same topics. Students also rated satisfaction with the curriculum.

RESULTS

Sixty students participated. Mean knowledge and comfort scores significantly increased from 7.2 to 9.2 ( P < .001) and from 2.7 to 3.9 ( P < .001) before and after the modules, respectively. Although satisfaction scores for traditional lectures were significantly higher than for online modules (4.7 vs. 4.4, P < .001), online modules were still favorably received. Mean satisfaction score for the NSVD simulation was 4.8. Overall, satisfaction score for the curriculum was 4.5.

DISCUSSION

An obstetric curriculum consisting of online modules and simulation significantly increases medical student learner knowledge and comfort and is associated with a high level of satisfaction.
Physical activity during COVID-19 in people with systemic sclerosis: A Scleroderma Patient-centred Intervention Network COVID-19 Cohort longitudinal study
Authors: Wurz Amanda , Henry Richard S , Kwakkenbos Linda , Carrier Marie-Eve , Patten Scott B , Bartlett Susan J , Mouthon Luc , Varga John , Benedetti Andrea , Culos-Reed S Nicole , Thombs Brett D
Published: April 2024

Introduction/Objective:

People with systemic sclerosis (SSc) face barriers to physical activity. Few studies have described physical activity in SSc, and none have explored physical activity longitudinally during COVID-19. We evaluated physical activity from April 2020 to March 2022 among people with SSc.

Methods:

The Scleroderma Patient-centred Intervention Network (SPIN) COVID-19 Cohort was launched in April 2020 and included participants from the ongoing SPIN Cohort plus external enrolees. Participants completed measures bi-weekly through July 2020, then every 4 weeks afterwards (28 assessments). Physical activity was assessed via the self-reported International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Elderly. Analyses included estimated means with 95% confidence intervals for physical activity across assessments. Missing data were imputed for main analyses. Sensitivity analyses included evaluating only participants who completed >90% of items for >21 of 28 possible assessments (‘completers’) and stratified analyses by sex, age, country and SSc subtype.

Results:

A total of 800 people with SSc enrolled. Mean age was 55.6 (standard deviation (SD) = 12.6) years. Physical activity significantly decreased from April 2020 to March 2021 (standardized mean difference (SMD) = −0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.26 to −0.07) and was stable from March 2021 to March 2022 (SMD = −0.05, 95% CI = −0.15 to 0.05). Results were similar for completers and subgroups. The proportion of participants who met World Health Organization minimum physical activity recommendations of at least 150 min of moderate-to-vigorous activity per week ranged from 63% to 82% across assessments.

Conclusion:

Physical activity decreased by a relatively small amount, on average, across the pandemic. Most participants met recommended physical activity levels.
Consequences of erroneous reporting and interpretation of positive antibody screen in Rhesus (Rh) negative pregnancy: A report of two cases
Authors: Bengtsson Bengt-Ola S , van Houten John P
Published: April 2024

Background

Rhesus (Rh) D Immunoglobulin (RhIG), ( Rhogam®) is indicated for all pregnant Rh-negative women at 28 weeks of gestation followed by a second dose within 72 h after birth if the newborn is Rh-positive and it reduces the risk for Rh alloimmunization of the mother from 13%–16% to 0.1%–0.2%.

Methods

Retrospective review of causes and outcomes of two cases of Rh-induced hemolytic disease of the newborn (Rh-HDN) at our institution.

Results

The determination of passive anti-D from RhIG versus active anti-D from maternal sensitization and subsequent management, relies entirely on a reliable history of prior and timely RhIG administration in the mother.

Conclusion

These two cases illustrate the importance of communication (and the detriment of the lack thereof) between blood bank and maternal—and neonatal care providers in the prevention—and management of Rh-HDN.
Beyond the limits of rentability: Revalorizing urban space in late neoliberalism
Authors: Madden David
Published: April 2024

How has the process of urban spatial valorization evolved since the global financial crisis of 2007–2008? In the late neoliberal city, flows of value are increasingly captured through new forms of privately-controlled rentable property. In order to explore this process, this article develops the notion of rentability. It argues that the post-crisis period of urbanization in the neoliberal core is characterized by an emphasis on the expansion and deepening of rentability throughout urban and suburban space. The article details multiple manifestations of this process. It argues that there this process features distinctive spatial, scalar, and political patterns. And it explores how the expansion of rentability and of landlord-tenant relations are being contested in various ways. As more of urban life becomes subject to rent relations, new opportunities for resistance emerge.