bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Exploration of Berberis lycium Royle: A Hidden Treasure Trove for Antiviral Development
Authors: Mukhtar Mamuna , Khan Haris Ahmed , Ibisanmi Tope Abraham , Faleti Ayodele Ifeoluwa , Zaidi Najam us Sahar Sadaf
Published: July 2024

Viral infections and associated illnesses account for approximately 3.5 million global fatalities and public health problems. Medicinal plants, with their wide therapeutic range and minimal side effects, have gained limelight particularly in response to growing concerns about drug resistance and sluggish development of antiviral drugs. This study computationally assessed 11 chemical compounds from Berberis lycium along with two antiviral drugs to inhibit SARS CoV 2 (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]) RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP), influenza virus RdRP, and two crucial dengue virus (DENV) enzymes (NS2B/NS3 protease and NS5 polymerase). Berberine and oxyberberine passed all pharmacokinetics analysis filters including Lipinski rule, blood-brain barrier permeant, and cytochrome suppression and demonstrated drug-likeness, bioavailability, and a non-toxic profile. Docking of phytochemicals from B lycium returned promising results with selected viral proteins, ie, DENV NS2BNS3 (punjabine –10.9 kcal/mol), DENV NS5 (punjabine –10.4 kcal/mol), COVID-19 RdRP (oxyacanthine –9.5 kcal/mol), and influenza RdRP (punjabine –10.4 kcal/mol). The optimal pharmacokinetics of berberine exhibited good binding energies with NS2BNS3 (–8.0 kcal/mol), NS5 (–8.3 kcal/mol), COVID RdRP (–7.7 kcal/mol), and influenza RdRP (–8.3 kcal/mol), while molecular dynamics simulation of a 50-ns time scale by GROMACS software package provided insights into the flexibility and stability of the complexes. A hidden treasure trove for antiviral research, berberine, berbamine, berbamunine, oxyberberine, oxyacanthine, baluchistanamine, and sindamine has showed encouraging findings as possible lead compounds. Pharmacological analyses provide credence for the proposed study; nevertheless, as the antiviral mechanisms of action of these phytochemicals are not well understood, additional research and clinical trials are required to demonstrate both their efficacy and toxicity through in vitro and in vivo studies.
Idiopathic Granulomatous Mastitis, Erythema Nodosum, and Polyarthritis
Authors: Tarhini Ali , El Hasbani Georges , Farhat Lama , Ghieh Diamond , Uthman Imad
Published: July 2024

Idiopathic granulomatous mastitis (IGM) is an inflammatory-mediated rare disease that can be linked to rare manifestations. Erythema nodosum (EN) and polyarthritis, seen in a multitude of autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases, have been rarely linked to IGM. Despite the cause of IGM being unclear, Corynebacterium infections are thought to play a role in the pathophysiology of IGM. Unusually, IGM has a relapsing and remitting course, which also applies to its systemic manifestations. As such, we present a case of IGM in a middle-aged lady who was initially thought to have Corynebacterium-containing unilateral abscesses for which drainage was performed. However, several abscesses devoid of bacterial growth started recurring, and the disease course was complicated by EN and polyarthritis. IGM, EN, and polyarthritis eventually resolved and were managed with symptomatic treatment.
Psychological experiences of Druze women with breast cancer
Authors: Gershfeld-Litvin Avital , Ressler Itay , Daher Khola , Halabi Samer
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of Druze women who were diagnosed with breast cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine Druze women. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data and three themes were generated. The first was “cancer discourse”: participants utilized codeswitching and medical jargon in their rhetoric, in a manner that seemed to imply difficulty to speak directly about their experiences. The second was “self-image”: the cancer and its treatments seem to have had an impact on participants’ body image and overall sense of femininity. The third was “coping”: sense and meaning-making as well as faith and family were identified as major coping mechanisms. Findings suggest a need for cultural competence in psychological interventions for breast cancer survivors.
You can’t nudge into vaccination: Comparing the effects of nudge types and Covid-19 vaccination attitudes on vaccine willingness
Authors: Barbosa Sergio , Sánchez-Mora Johanna , Corredor Javier Alejandro
Published: July 2024

Nudges can be an effective strategy to promote vaccination. However, it is necessary to better identify the characteristics of nudges that produce the strongest effects and how they interact with individuals’ attitudes. Here we sequentially test the effectiveness of three nudge characteristics (framing, nudge type, and presentation modality) and the role of participants’ attitudes toward Covid-19 vaccination, social solidarity and authoritarianism in vaccination decisions. In studies 1–4, participants were presented with a nudge manipulating a target characteristic (e.g. positive/negative framing, nudge type) and measuring willingness to vaccinate and related variables compared a control nudge. Study 5 used a single combined nudge reflecting the combination of successful nudges in previous studies. Results over all studies show that nudging has unreliable effects while vaccine attitudes are more reliably linked to all measures of vaccines willingness. These results suggest that attitudes play a more reliable role on effective adoption of vaccinations.
Who decides on peritoneal dialysis treatment? A decision analysis for patients with kidney failure
Authors: Chou Che-Yi , Hsieh Yu-Ling , Lai Jia-Wen
Published: July 2024

Peritoneal dialysis, a home-based treatment, enhances patient well-being but is less preferred in Taiwan. This study uses in-depth interviews and ranking surveys to examine the decision-making process of 25 patients (13 male, 12 female, aged 31–80) who initiated peritoneal dialysis. Findings reveal that physicians significantly influence dialysis choices, with their expertise and leadership being core factors. Patients’ participation in decision-making is categorized as “active” or “passive” based on their knowledge and acceptance of treatments. Family members also play a crucial role in decisions for patients relying on familial care. Trust in physicians’ recommendations is crucial, emphasizing the importance of a strong doctor-patient relationship and ongoing support to boost patient confidence in peritoneal dialysis.
Surrogate modeling for aerodynamic static instability of central-slotted box decks using machine learning approaches
Authors: Elhassan Mohammed Elhassan Omer , Zhu Le-Dong , Alhaddad Wael , Tan Zhongxu
Published: July 2024

Studies on aerodynamic controls of central-slotted box decks primarily focused on mitigating vortex-induced vibrations (VIV), as this type of deck typically performs well against flutter instability. However, as the span length increases, the critical wind speed of aerodynamic static instability ( U cr) might be lower than flutter critical wind speed. Thus, U cr will determine the overall aerodynamic performance of such bridges. Investigating this instability through wind tunnel testing methods and numerical simulation can be expensive and time-consuming. In this paper, surrogate models using machine learning approaches, specifically artificial neural network (ANN) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), were developed and optimized for fast and reliable prediction for U cr based on wind tunnel tests and simulation data. The results demonstrated that the built surrogate models can predict U cr accurately. The parametric study results showed that the height ratio of wind fairing apex ( a/b), wind angle of attack ( α), and length of the main span ( L) have the most influence on the U cr compared with other parameters. Finally, based on the developed ANN surrogate model and the artificial bee colony (ABC) optimization algorithm, an optimized section was proposed to enhance the section’s performance against aerodynamic static instability.
Opportunity structures for user acceptance of news recommender systems (NRS): A multi-country survey study of relationships between individual-level factors and evaluations of NRS
Authors: Strikovic Edina , Blassnig Sina , Mitova Eliza , Urman Aleksandra , Esser Frank , de Vreese Claes
Published: July 2024

Digitalization of the media is often discussed in terms of effects on the user. What is often overlooked are the motivations from users, on the individual level, for the acceptance of new technologies. This study explores what individual-level factors make up favorable opportunity structures for the implementation of news recommender systems (NRS). We conduct a cross-sectional survey ( n = 5073) in five countries (The Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, the United Kingdom, and the United States) to analyze the correlations between users’ individual-level factors and their evaluations of NRS in terms of benefits and concerns. Our findings demonstrate universally critical evaluations of NRS and less-than-ideal conditions for the acceptance of NRS. We also show that while there are patterns of country differences, the perceived concerns of NRS are stronger overall and largely universal. Implications of these findings suggest a slow and intentional development and implementation of NRS rather than keeping pace with the fast development of technology.
Digital Mary: Religious Mediatization and the Re-Enchantment of a Mega Symbol
Authors: Golan Oren , Stadler Nurit
Published: July 2024

This study examines how sacred sites and their agents construct the mediatization of Mary. A qualitative analysis of Instagram postings of four European holy sites of the Virgin combined with ethnographic fieldwork identified three primary ways in which webmasters manage Marian sites to amplify her charismatic appeal and inspire awe: (1) Marycentrism: Situating Mary as the all-encompassing focal protagonist that is separate and aggrandized on postings; (2) Enchanting Pragmatism: Imbuing religious symbols in informational and institutional knowledge concerning the Marian site; and (3) Open-Ended Participation: Displaying public events of saint veneration to elicit voluntary communicative acts that engage users with the physical space, and provide a shared experience of the mediatized events leading to a connection with the transcendental. The discussion centers on the ways that mediatization has transformed her icon into a ubiquitous image of a sole mother Goddess while altering represented and in-person worship and rituals.
The quest for meaningful connections: Navigating scripted sexuality on Instagram amid Grindr and Tinder fatigue
Authors: Suenzo Facundo N
Published: July 2024

In the contemporary digital age, the experience of intimacy, sex, and love has been profoundly transformed, in part due to technological transformations. How do individuals navigate the evolving landscape of dating in the digital age to seek meaningful connections? To answer that, I conducted 30 individual, in-depth interviews with queer men in Argentina. Drawing on the conceptual apparatus of the sociology of sexuality and research on social media repertoires, I argue that different platforms elicit specific imaginaries, relationships, and pleasures. While Grindr emphasizes sexual explicitness and anonymity, Tinder offers a more conversational and personal experience. However, scripted and repetitive conversations tend to foster feelings of anxiety, boredom, and fatigue. Thus, many interviewees opt to escape the dating environment to Instagram, a platform that provides them a space for more authentic and pleasant interactions. These findings expand the notion of networked intimacy beyond the realm of dating platforms to social media and messaging apps.
Performing lowbrowness: How Chinese queer people negotiate visibility on short-video platforms
Authors: Zhou Zhiqiu Benson
Published: July 2024

In recent years, Chinese media have tightened regulations on LGBTQ-related content, yet queer people remain highly visible on short-video platforms. Many of them have become influencers with millions of followers. This paper examines queer people’s digital tactics of negotiating visibility and establishing queer connections. Based on extensive research from 2020 to 2023 on Douyin, this paper unpacks how rather than relying on bounded LGBT identities to construct selfhood, Chinese queer influencers resort to the tactic of performing lowbrowness to build online personas and to achieve queer visibility. The performed lowbrowness ostensibly signifies a cultural taste, but queer influencers imbue these classed signs with queer meanings, using them to re-signify unconventional genders and/or sexualities. This project brings to light Chinese queer people’s digital agency to navigate today’s media regulations. It also shows how Chinese digital queer politics may not be intelligible to, and contest the discourses of, queer liberalism.
Effect of verbal and written information on the perception of pain and analgesic consumption, in adolescent orthodontic patients: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Pavlić Andrej , Blagec Tadeja , Meštrović Senka
Published: July 2024

Objective:

To investigate the impact of written instructions, about post-bonding pain, on patients’ pain perception and analgesic consumption and to evaluate the correlation of pain with personality types.

Design:

Two-arm parallel randomised controlled trial.

Setting:

University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.

Methods:

Participants included adolescents in the permanent dentition with mild or moderate crowding.

Randomisation:

The participants were randomly allocated, using computer-generated random list, into two groups.

Interventions:

After bonding and archwire insertion, all participants received oral instructions on potential pain occurrence and pain control. Participants in the study group also received written information on post-bonding pain.

Outcomes:

Pain intensity was evaluated using the Numerical Rating Scale immediately after (T0), 2 days (T1) and 7 days (T2) after the placement of the fixed orthodontic appliance. Analgesic consumption was assessed as yes or no, and personality traits were assessed using the Big Five Inventory. Operators who scored pain intensity and recorded analgesic consumption and personality traits were blinded to the group allocation. Statistical analyses included the t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test, Spearman correlations and stepwise regression analysis.

Results:

The highest rate of pain was recorded at T1 ( P < 0.001). No statistically significant difference in pain perception between groups was observed. There was no statistically significant difference in analgesic consumption between the two groups ( P = 0.81). The correlations between personality traits and pain perception were not significant.

Conclusion:

The additional written information had little impact on pain perception, and it had no relationship to personality types. The perception of pain and analgesic consumption were not affected by the provision of additional written information ( P = 0.81). Participants’ personality types did not affect the impact of the information given.
Cylinder pressure reconstruction to compensate for crankshaft flexibility based on flexible crank model
Authors: Song Enzhe , Liu XiaoYang , Tang Lijiao , Yao Chong , Xu Pengcheng
Published: July 2024

Amid escalating economic demands and emissions regulations for internal combustion engines, an array of control strategies grounded in in-cylinder state feedback has been introduced and implemented. The exploration of cylinder state feedback has captured the attention of researchers, and one area of intense focus involves reconstructing cylinder pressure based on engine state information due to its cost-effectiveness. In this paper, we introduce a method for compensating crankshaft flexibility. This method encompasses a crankshaft dynamic model, a 17-dimensional input vector, the PCA (Principal Component Analysis) algorithm, and a signal-layer perceptron. This approach efficiently addresses the impact of flexible crankshaft deformation and ensures high accuracy. The results demonstrate that all R2 values for cylinder pressure signals reconstructed via the proposed method exceed 0.9997, with RMSE predominantly ranging between 0.4 and 0.6 bar. Furthermore, the error in Pmax calculation based on cylinder pressure signals is under 0.04 bar, LPP (Location of Peak Pressure) error is below 2°CA, CA50 error remains under 0.5°CA, and IMEPH error is within 0.3 bar. In summation, the presented method facilitates highly precise in-cylinder pressure reconstruction, satisfies the prerequisites for in-cylinder combustion state feedback.
On the condition monitoring of bolted joints through acoustic emission and deep transfer learning: generalization, ordinal loss, and super-convergence
Authors: Ramasso Emmanuel , Teloli Rafael de Oliveira , Marcel Romain
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the use of deep transfer learning based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to monitor the condition of bolted joints using acoustic emissions (AEs). Bolted structures are critical components in many mechanical systems, and the ability to monitor their condition status is crucial for effective structural health monitoring. We evaluated the performance of our methodology using the ORION-AE benchmark, a structure composed of two thin beams connected by three bolts, where highly noisy AE measurements were taken to detect changes in the applied tightening torque of the bolts. The data used from this structure is derived from the transformation of AE data streams into images using continuous wavelet transform, and leveraging pretrained CNNs for feature extraction and denoising. Our experiments compared single-sensor versus multiple-sensor fusion for estimating the tightening level (loosening) of bolts and evaluated the use of raw versus prefiltered data on the performance. We particularly focused on the generalization capabilities of CNN-based transfer learning across different measurement campaigns and we studied ordinal loss functions to penalize incorrect predictions less severely when close to the ground truth, thereby encouraging misclassification errors to be in adjacent classes. Network configurations as well as learning rate schedulers are also investigated, and super-convergence is obtained, that is, high classification accuracy is achieved in a few numbers of iterations with different networks. Furthermore, results demonstrate the generalization capabilities of CNN-based transfer learning for monitoring bolted structures by AE with varying amounts of prior information required during training.
Effective pre-stress identification in steel strand based on ultrasonic guided wave and 1-dimensional convolutional neural network
Authors: Zhang Longguan , Jia Junfeng , Bai Yulei , Du Xiuli , Guo Binli , Guo He
Published: July 2024

The accurate assessment of the effective pre-stress in steel strands is a challenging task, and ultrasonic guided wave (UGW) technique has shown certain application prospects in this field. However, the existing UGW-based approaches require manual parameter extraction from signals in time domain or frequency domain, which is a cumbersome and time-consuming process, and pre-stress identification based on individual parameters may not be reasonable. This study proposes a framework for identifying effective pre-stress in steel strands based on UGW and one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN), which does not require any parameter extraction operation and achieves high identification accuracy. The output features of various convolutional layers in 1D-CNN were downscaled and visualized, and the prediction results of 1D-CNN were compared with those of a support vector regression (SVR) model. Results show that with the deepening of the network, the correlation between output features of the convolutional layers and pre-stress values increases significantly, indicating that the 1D-CNN model is able to automatically extract features related to the variation of pre-stress. The pre-stress prediction accuracy using 1D-CNN is significantly higher than that using SVR, and the prediction error is within 3%. The proposed 1D-CNN model exhibits excellent noise-robustness, with the prediction error remaining within 10% even at the SNR level of −5 dB. Even after removing half of conditions in the training set, the proposed 1D-CNN model is still able to achieve accurate identification of effective pre-stress.
Pitting corrosion diagnostics and prognostics for miter gates using multiscale simulation and image inspection data
Authors: Qian Guofeng , Wu Zihan , Hu Zhen , Todd Michael D.
Published: July 2024

Physics-based high-fidelity pitting corrosion simulation models have successfully predicted the evolution of corrosion pit morphology for given mechanical and environmental conditions. However, applying such models for pitting corrosion diagnostics and prognostics in large civil infrastructures such as found in the inland waterways navigation enterprise is very challenging, primarily due to the impracticality of measuring individual pits. This paper addresses this challenge by bridging the gap between physics-based pitting corrosion simulation and vision-based pitting corrosion inspection of large civil infrastructures. The framework proposed in this paper consists of four main modules: mesoscale pitting corrosion simulation using the phase-field method, macroscale structural analysis, pitting corrosion detection using machine learning, and updating physics-based simulation models based on pitting corrosion detection. It begins with developing a forward simulation framework to predict the evolution of pitting corrosion on large civil infrastructure using multiscale analysis. A convolutional neural network (CNN)-based pit detection method is created in parallel to autonomously identify and extract pitting corrosion observations from corrosion inspection images. Finally, an approximate Bayesian computation numerical framework is proposed to update three key model parameters in the forward pitting corrosion simulation model using the detection results from the trained CNN model. The updated multiscale simulation model can then be used for pitting corrosion prognostics. A practical application example is demonstrated on miter gates to show the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
Coercive Control in 2SLGBTQQIA+ Relationships: A Scoping Review
Authors: Zoe Hilton N. , Ham Elke , Radatz Dana L. , Smith Chris M. , Snow Natalie , Wintermute Jolene , Jennings-Fitz-Gerald Emma , Lee Jimin , Patterson Sydney
Published: July 2024

Existing measures and theories of intimate partner coercive control largely evaluate men’s coercion of women. The extent of knowledge pertaining to intimate relationships among other genders and sexual identities is unclear. Guided by a theoretical framework of intersectionality, we examined and synthesized original studies on coercive control by (perpetration) or against (victimization) Two Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, questioning, intersex, and asexual individuals within intimate partner relationships. We searched eight academic databases for records from 2014 through 2022 and hand-searched review articles’ reference lists, supplemented with gray literature and website searches. Using duplicate screening, we identified 1,774 unique documents; 526 met preliminary eligibility criteria and 277 were retained for data extraction in duplicate. Coercive control was more common among minority individuals and was related to mental health challenges. Few studies reported on gender- or sexual-identity specific forms of coercive control, and an intersectional focus was uncommon. This review revealed a lack of agreed definition of coercive control or accepted standard of measurement, and a gap in research with individuals who identify as gender diverse, gender fluid or intersex, or those identifying their sexuality as asexual, pansexual, or sexually diverse.
Domestic and Family Violence Affecting Children and Young People from Culturally and Racially Marginalized Migrant Backgrounds in Australia: A Scoping Review of Child Experiences and Service Responses
Authors: Tarpey-Brown Gemma , Kirwan Jess , Wise Sarah , Alisic Eva , Vaughan Cathy , Block Karen
Published: July 2024

In Australia, children and families from culturally and racially marginalized (CARM) migrant backgrounds experience a range of compounding structural and interpersonal factors that limit help-seeking and exacerbate the impacts of domestic and family violence (DFV). This scoping review examines the current state of knowledge on how children and young people from CARM migrant backgrounds experience DFV, and the services that respond to DFV including child protection services. A systematic search was conducted across PsycINFO, MEDLINE, and CINAHL databases and Google Scholar, alongside a complementary grey literature search. Articles were included in the review if participants were from CARM migrant backgrounds, and the article included information related to children and young people’s experiences of DFV, and the DFV service system. The review found 19 articles that met selection criteria. Due to limited research on this topic in Australia, most articles focused on children and young people’s experiences shared through parental, carer or service provider perspectives. To our knowledge, this is the first scoping review to examine how children and young people from CARM migrant backgrounds experience DFV. Findings demonstrate children and young people are victim-survivors of multiple forms of DFV. Children and young people’s engagement with the DFV service system is often accompanied by feelings of fear and distrust. Findings suggest that to strengthen system responses to DFV, services must build their capability to implement intersectional approaches that simultaneously support the safety and well-being of both the child and the non-violent parent or carer.
Fear and Masculinity as Motivational Narratives for Knife-Related Crime: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Figueira Ana , Alleyne Emma , Wood Jane
Published: July 2024

Males are routinely identified as both the victims and perpetrators of knife-related crime. Explanations have typically fallen into two categories: fear of further victimization (i.e., need for protection) and masculine gender norms (e.g., a display of “toughness”). However, these two works of literature have not yet been brought together to provide us with a fruitful theoretical understanding of why some young men engage in knife-related crime. The purpose of this systematic review is to consolidate and synthesize the available research on fear and masculinity as explanations for knife-related crime. In all, 23 studies were identified as meeting the inclusion criteria. The findings of the studies reviewed highlight the importance of considering the cognitive analysis of risk and perceptions of risk in young males’ decisions to engage in knife-related crime. These perceptions of risk are shaped by previous victimization through a contagion effect and contribute to the development of an aggressive masculinity that justifies the behavior. However, it is not very well understood the role of fear contagion, and victimization in the shaping of masculine ideals within groups of young men involved in knife-related crimes. Additional research is needed to explore these findings and shed light on the complex interplay between these factors to inform viable treatment options for young men engaged in knife-related crime.
Decolonization of Post-Soviet Higher Education: Critical Inquiry Through a Reflexive Scholarly Dialogue
Authors: Oleksiyenko Anatoly V. , Tavadze Giorgi
Published: July 2024

This study probes a format of reflexive scholarly dialogue (RSD) to enhance critical inquiry for exploration and validation of dilemmas of postcolonialism in the post-soviet environments where coloniality is debatable and politicized. In this article, the RSD is conducted by two professors, located in different countries and cultures (Ukraine and Georgia) but sharing similar postcolonial experiences. Anatoly Oleksiyenko and Giorgi Tavadze reflect on what it means to decolonize themselves and their scholarship from the imperial discourse propagated by the Kremlin. They try to understand what de-Sovietization contributes to thinking and communication inter-ethnically and internationally. Re-examining their own experiences, Oleksiyenko and Tavadze delve into several issues that are essential for advancing critical thinking and discourse in this area of research: that is, the problems of coping with Russian propaganda and anti-westernization; critical inquiry into the purposes of de-Sovietization; and the future of decolonization and transformations of learning and inquiry in the post-soviet spaces of higher education. While developing RSD as a cross-cultural and cross-disciplinary instrument, the authors seek opportunities to problematize the prevalent concepts and approaches in postcolonial and decolonial studies in global higher education.
Cyberbullying Victimization and Sense of Purpose Among Hispanic College Students: A Moderated Mediation Model of Depression and Religious Beliefs
Authors: Lee Jeoung Min , Lee Jaegoo , Kim Jeongsuk , Park Yangjin , Pierce Rheanna , Lee Heekyung
Published: July 2024

Studies have not focused much on the risk or protective factors of Hispanic college students’ cyberbullying victimization. This study applied the stress, appraisal, and coping theory to examine how the association between cyberbullying victimization and a Hispanic college student’s sense of purpose in life might be explained by their depressive symptoms. We also examined how religious beliefs moderate the association of the effect of cyberbullying victimization on a sense of purpose in life via depressive symptoms. The PROCESS Macro was used to examine a moderated mediation model from a sample of 168 Hispanic college students. Findings revealed that depressive symptoms mediated the effect of cyberbullying victimization on a sense of purpose in life. Moreover, cyberbullying victimization on a sense of purpose in life via depressive symptoms was significantly moderated by religious beliefs. These findings support the stress, appraisal, and coping theory and provide implications for research and practice.
Stress and Resilience of Families With Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Biggs Elizabeth E. , Zhang Lisa S. , Ling Charis
Published: July 2024

Parental stress increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Families with children with an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD) and extensive support needs—such as complex communication needs—experienced additional challenges, including service loss and difficulties accessing virtual learning. The purpose of this study was to understand the experiences of parents ( N = 37) with children with IDD and complex communication needs related to parental stress and family resilience. Qualitative interview and quantitative survey data were collected within a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, with interviews occurring three times across the 2020–2021 school year. The two sets of data were analyzed separately and then integrated using back-and-forth exchanges and a joint display. Findings indicated that families showed resilience through family adaptation and cohesion—creating rhythms and routines that fostered togetherness—and by growing in advocacy and empowerment related to their child’s learning. But, many parents worried that they were not able to do enough for their child. Social support predicted lowered parental stress and stronger family resilience; yet, perceived social support varied widely across families—particularly support from teachers and service providers. This study provides important insight into family experiences during a unique time with the COVID-19 pandemic while pointing to important ways to strengthen family resilience long into a postpandemic future.
A Preliminary Study of Post-Market Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration (BEAR) Suggests Non-Inferior Short-Term Outcomes and Low Complications
Authors: Shah Aakash K. , Rizy Morgan E. , Neijna Ava G. , Uppstrom Tyler J. , Gomoll Andreas H. , Strickland Sabrina M.
Published: July 2024

Background:

To improve outcomes following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, bridge-enhanced ACL restoration (BEAR) was introduced. Bridge-enhanced ACL restoration uses a collagen-based implant saturated with infused autologous blood to bridge the torn proximal and distal ACL fibers.

Purpose:

We sought to analyze the short-term complications, clinical outcomes, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in patients undergoing BEAR outside of the initial clinical trials.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all skeletally mature patients who had a midsubstance or proximal ACL tear treated with BEAR by 2 surgeons at a single institution and had a minimum follow-up of 6 weeks. A total of 58 patients were included (average age was 38 years, average time from injury to surgery was 45 days). Data on demographic factors, functional outcomes, and complications were collected from electronic medical records. Patient-reported outcome measures and a descriptive return-to-activity survey were analyzed utilizing paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.

Results:

All 58 patients demonstrated a grade of 1A on the Lachman test at 6 weeks postoperatively. At 6 months postoperatively, the mean active flexion was 135° ± 5°, and all patients achieved 0° extension. Although not all patients completed PROM questionnaires, among those who did we observed a significant increase in PROMs between preoperative and postoperative measurements; more than half achieved the minimal clinically important difference in all PROMs, and 26 patients (87%) had a 1-level decrease in function. There were no cases of retear or instability. Three patients (5%) had postoperative arthrofibrosis.

Conclusion:

Early results of this preliminary post-market approval study suggest that BEAR may provide a safe and non-inferior approach to ACL reconstruction in selected patients. Studies are needed to investigate the long-term outcomes of this novel technique.
Impact of Pleural Integrity Preservation After Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Surgery
Authors: Bacchi Beatrice , Cabrucci Francesco , Chiarello Bruno , Dokollari Aleksander , Bonacchi Massimo
Published: July 2024

Objective:

While the benefits of minimally invasive aortic valve surgery compared with standard sternotomy have been widely described, the impact of preservation of pleural integrity (PPI) in minimally invasive surgery is still widely discussed. This study aims to define the role of PPI on postoperative and long-term outcomes after minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MIAVR).

Methods:

All 2,430 consecutive patients undergoing MIAVR (ministernotomy or right anterior minithoracotomy) between 1997 and 2022 were included in the study. Patients were divided into 2 groups: patients with and without PPI. PPI was considered the maintenance of the pleura closed without the need for a chest tube insertion at the end of the surgical procedure. A propensity-matched analysis was used to compare the PPI and not-PPI groups.

Results:

After propensity matching, 848 patients were included in each group (PPI and not-PPI). The mean age was 70.21 versus 71.42 years, and the mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons predicted risk of mortality was 0.31% versus 0.30% in not-PPI versus PPI, respectively. The mean follow-up time was 147.4 months. Postoperatively, not-PPI versus PPI patients had a longer intensive care unit stay (9.7 vs 17.3 h, P < 0.001) and hospital length of stay (5.2 vs 8.9 days, P < 0.001). The rate of respiratory complications including the incidence of pneumothorax or subcutaneous emphysema, pulmonary atelectasis, and pleural effusion events requiring thoracentesis/drainage was significantly higher in not-PPI versus PPI. The 30-day all-cause mortality was higher in not-PPI versus PPI (0.029 vs 0.010, P = 0.003). Perioperative, short-term, and long-term all-cause mortality was significantly higher in the not-PPI group.

Conclusions:

PPI after MIAVR is associated with reduced incidence of postoperative complications, reduced lengths of stay, and improved overall survival compared with not-PPI. Therefore, a MIAVR tailored patient-procedure approach to maintaining the pleura integrity positively impacts short-term and long-term outcomes.
Identification and evaluation of optimal fiber shape for transverse thermal conductivity of unidirectional composites
Authors: Wang Meng
Published: July 2024

As a constituent of composites, fibers play a pivotal role in composites’ properties. In this study, an identification process for fiber shape is developed to enhance the transverse coefficient of thermal conductivity. The identification process is established by combining feedforward neural network, Kriging surrogate model and NSGA-II algorithm. The identification process leads to the discovery of an ellipse-like fiber shape which results in a 202.7% increase in thermal conductivity. However, the equivalent thermal conductivities of the models with ellipse-like fiber are highly dependent on fiber shape orientation. Another fiber shape, gear shape, is identified and a more than 100% increase in thermal conductivities is achieved along different fiber shape orientations. The effects of the fiber random distribution patterns are revealed with different fiber shapes considered. The results demonstrate that when the fiber random distribution pattern is considered, the thermal conductivity of model with gear fibers exhibits the largest increase due to the effects of fiber shape orientation. Furthermore, the equivalent transverse thermal conductivity can be enhanced by the non-circular fiber shapes only if the fiber-matrix thermal conductivity ratio is larger than a certain value which is dependent on the fiber shape. With the increase of the fiber volume fraction, the optimal fiber shape becomes more and more similar to the circular shape and the effects of non-circular fiber shape become less.
Inter-Rater and Intrarater Reliability of Radiographs in the Diagnosis of Pediatric Scaphoid Fractures
Authors: Padeanu Stefan , Tang Ken , Highmore Kerri , Koujok Khaldoun , Carsen Sasha , Smit Kevin , Cheung Kevin
Published: July 2024

Background:

Pediatric scaphoid fractures can be challenging to diagnose on plain radiograph. Rates of missed scaphoid fractures can be as high as 30% to 37% on initial imaging and overall sensitivity ranging from 21% to 97%. Few studies, however, have examined the reliability of radiographs in the diagnosis of scaphoid fractures, and none are specific to the pediatric population. Reliability, both between different specialists and for individual raters, may elucidate some of the diagnostic challenges.

Methods:

We conducted a 2-iteration survey of pediatric orthopedic surgeons, plastic surgeons, radiologists, and emergency physicians at a tertiary children’s hospital. Participants were asked to assess 10 series of pediatric wrist radiographs for evidence of scaphoid fracture. Inter-rater and intrarater reliability was calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient of 2.1.

Results:

Forty-two respondents were included in the first iteration analysis. Inter-rater reliability between surgeons (0.66; 95% confidence interval, 0.43-0.87), radiologists (0.76; 0.55-0.92), and emergency physicians (0.65; 0.46-0.86) was “good” to “excellent.” Twenty-six respondents participated in the second iteration for intrarater reliability (0.73; 0.67-0.78). Sensitivity (0.75; 0.69-0.81) and specificity (0.78; 0.71-0.83) of wrist radiographs for diagnosing scaphoid fractures were consistent with results in other studies.

Conclusions:

Both inter-rater and intrarater reliability for diagnosing pediatric scaphoid fractures on radiographs was good to excellent. No significant difference was found between specialists. Plain radiographs, while useful for obvious scaphoid fractures, are unable to reliably rule out subtle fractures routinely. Our study demonstrates that poor sensitivity stems from the test itself, and not rater variability.
A probabilistic approach for risk assessment of moisture-related degradation of building envelopes
Authors: Ryan Bona , Bristow David , Mukhopadhyaya Phalguni
Published: July 2024

The performance and durability of wood-frame building envelopes is affected by long-term moisture transport and its impact. Despite considerable progress in deterministic and prescriptive methodologies aimed at estimating moisture deposition and the consequent risk of mold growth, a consensus in methodology applicable to the analysis of moisture risk in building enclosures is an unfinished agenda. This might partly be caused by uncertainties that exist due to variations in input parameters, model structure, and data scarcity. To address this issue, this study presents a probabilistic risk assessment of building envelope deterioration from moisture accumulation. The proposed methodology integrates the development of meta-models, a full-factorial response surface methodology, and Bayesian analysis. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated through a parametric analysis of typical wall assemblies featuring diverse layers and boundary conditions. The findings highlight the influence of input variables and their relative significance on moisture accumulation in the selected climate zones. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis of model parameters and the application of Bayesian analysis in specific contexts are presented, facilitating comparative evaluation of moisture-related risk of building envelopes.
Preferred lifestyle intervention characteristics and behaviour change needs of postpartum women following cardiometabolic pregnancy complications
Authors: Osei-Safo Elaine K , Lim Siew , Makama Maureen , Chen Mingling , Skouteris Helen , Taylor Frances , Harrison Cheryce L , Hutchesson Melinda , Bennett Christie J , Teede Helena , Melder Angela , Moran Lisa J
Published: July 2024

Background:

Women with cardiometabolic pregnancy complications are at increased risk of future diabetes and heart disease which can be reduced through lifestyle management postpartum.

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore preferred intervention characteristics and behaviour change needs of women with or without prior cardiometabolic pregnancy complications for engaging in postpartum lifestyle interventions.

Design:

Quantitative cross-sectional study.

Methods:

Online survey.

Results:

Overall, 473 women were included, 207 (gestational diabetes (n = 105), gestational hypertension (n = 39), preeclampsia (n = 35), preterm birth (n = 65) and small for gestational age (n = 23)) with and 266 without prior cardiometabolic pregnancy complications. Women with and without complications had similar intervention preferences, with delivery ideally by a healthcare professional with expertise in women’s health, occurring during maternal child health nurse visits or online, commencing 7 weeks to 3 months post birth, with 15- to 30-min monthly sessions, lasting 1 year and including monitoring of progress and social support. Women with prior complications preferred intervention content on women’s health, mental health, exercise, mother’s diet and their children’s health and needed to know more about how to change behaviour, have more time to do it and feel they want to do it enough to participate. There were significant differences between groups, with more women with prior cardiometabolic pregnancy complications wanting content on women’s health (87.9% vs 80.8%, p = 0.037), mother’s diet (72.5% vs 60.5%, p = 0.007), preventing diabetes or heart disease (43.5% vs 27.4%, p < 0.001) and exercise after birth (78.3% vs 68.0%, p = 0.014), having someone to monitor their progress (69.6% vs 58.6%, p = 0.014), needing the necessary materials (47.3% vs 37.6%, p = 0.033), triggers to prompt them (44.0% vs 31.6%, p = 0.006) and feeling they want to do it enough (73.4%, 63.2%, p = 0.018).

Conclusion:

These unique preferences should be considered in future postpartum lifestyle interventions to enhance engagement, improve health and reduce risk of future cardiometabolic disease in these high-risk women.
A case of giant labia majora lipoma in an adult
Authors: Hoang Van Trung , Hoang The Huan , Nguyen San Ni , Mai Phuong , Bui Thi Thanh Tam
Published: July 2024

Lipomas are common benign adipose tissue tumors but are infrequently found in the labia majora, especially at a large size. We report a case of a giant lipoma of the labia majora in a 37-year-old woman diagnosed by imaging methods and successfully treated by surgery. This case highlights the importance of considering lipoma in the differential diagnosis of labial masses and underscores the role of imaging in diagnosis. They need to be differentiated from liposarcoma or omental herniation into Nuck’s canal. It also demonstrates the effectiveness of surgical management for large lipomas in sensitive areas, with attention to both medical and aesthetic outcomes.
Motivators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Russia
Authors: King Elizabeth J. , Averyanova Yuliya , Meylakhs Peter , Aleksandrova Ekaterina
Published: July 2024

Vaccine hesitancy is one of the major roadblocks to ending the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known about individuals’ motivators and barriers to vaccination in Russia. We aimed to determine which factors were associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Russia. We conducted a cross-sectional, online survey across Russia at the end of 2021, during a time with increasing new cases of COVID-19. We used the Health Belief Model to test which of the constructs were associated with vaccine acceptance and controlled for demographic variables in the multivariate logistic regression analysis among our analytic sample of 550 respondents. About one-fifth (18.5%) of our study respondents reported vaccine hesitancy. Our multivariate analysis showed that perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and friends and family supporting vaccination (cue to action) all contributed to the likelihood of whether or not an individual was accepting of the COVID-19 vaccine. Analysis of our open-ended questions showed that individuals also considered the following factors in making decisions to vaccinate for COVID-19: policy restrictions, less worry, social responsibility, lack of trust, conspiracy theories, concerns about side effects and contraindications. Our results demonstrated the Health Belief Model to be a useful framework for understanding COVID-19 vaccine acceptance in Russia. Our study results highlight the need to focus on health beliefs in order to develop interventions to improve vaccine acceptance.