bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wisdom partially mediates the relationship between spirituality and eudaimonic well-being
Authors: Kalaycı Ahmet , Erdem Ahmet , Şahin Rukiye , MacDonald Douglas A
Published: March 2024

Using a sample of 593 undergraduate students, the study examined the relationship between spirituality, wisdom, and eudaimonic well-being with the purpose of testing if wisdom serves a mediating role in a directional model wherein spirituality is theorized as influencing well-being. Correlational analyses revealed that all three constructs are significantly associated. Structural equation modeling was employed and showed that wisdom acted as a partial mediator of the impact of spirituality on well-being. The study concludes with a discussion of the findings and suggestions for future research, with emphasis given to the replication of results with samples drawn from different cultures and to using longitudinal designs to better assess directional changes over time.
Giant Parotid Abscess With Significant Skin Necrosis: A Case Report
Authors: Lu Dan , Cui Jiaxin , Xie Yuhang , Zhang Jingfei , Xue Xiaocheng , Zhang Yi , Huang Shuixian
Published: March 2024

Poor blood glucose control is a common predisposing factor for parotid abscesses; however, extensive skin necrosis secondary to parotid abscesses has rarely been reported. In this article, we present the case of a 70-year-old man with poor glycemic control admitted to our hospital with swelling, congestion, and pain in the right parotid region that had gradually increased over 15 days prior to presentation. Based on the clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings, the patient was diagnosed with a giant parotid abscess with extensive skin necrosis caused by Klebsiella pneumoniae. The abscess responded poorly to long-term treatment with intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics, and the patient underwent daily Bacillus exchange with blood glucose level management and electrolyte monitoring via routine blood tests. At the 3 month follow-up, complete resolution of the right parotid gland abscess and skin rupture was observed.
Validation of Korean Olfactory Questionnaire for Perioperative Olfactory Assessment in Endoscopic Endonasal Skull Base Surgery
Authors: Sim Young-Chang , Yang Seung Koo , Han Sun A. , Kim Young-Hoon , Hwang Kihwan , Joo Jin-Deok , Cho Sung-Woo , Won Tae-Bin , Rhee Chae-Seo , Kim Chae-Yong , Kim Jeong-Whun
Published: March 2024

Objective: To analyze changes in olfactory function after endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery and compare performance of the olfactory questionnaire with those of conventional psychophysical tests. Methods: Patients were classified into 5 categories for olfactory function evaluation (normal, mild hyposmia, moderate hyposmia, severe hyposmia, and anosmia) based on a self-assessment. Patients also underwent the butanol threshold test (BTT), Cross-Cultural Smell Identification Test (CCSIT), and 11-item olfactory questionnaire. Subjects with normosmia preoperatively and who were followed up at least 6 months after surgery were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic curves and confusion matrix analysis were performed for BTT, CCSIT, and olfactory questionnaire to compare their diagnostic abilities. The effects of age, preoperative olfaction, septal flap, tumor pathology, and tumor size on postoperative olfaction were evaluated using multivariate linear regression analysis. Results: Data from 108 patients were analyzed. Postoperative changes in the olfactory questionnaire were significantly associated with changes in the BTT and CCSIT. The area under the curve for postoperative self-olfactory function classification was highest for olfactory questionnaire (0.894), followed by BTT (0.767) and CCSIT (0.688). Patient age at the time of surgery and preoperative BTT score were significantly related to postoperative olfactory outcomes. Conclusion: The olfactory questionnaire correlated well with conventional psychosomatic olfactory function tests. In combination with clinical parameters and preoperative psychosomatic olfactory function tests, the olfactory questionnaire is suitable for assessing subjective olfactory function after endoscopic endonasal skull base surgery.
Myxoid Liposarcoma of the Parotid Gland
Authors: Mezri Sameh , Zitouni Chaima , Thabet Wadii , Ben Amar Chaima , Tlili Karima , Bougrine Fethi , Akari Khemaies
Published: March 2024

Liposarcoma is extremely rare in the parotid gland. In this article, we report the case of an 87-year-old man who presented to our department with swelling in the left parotid region. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a tumor in the superficial lobe of the parotid gland. Total parotidectomy and ipsilateral lymph node dissection were performed. Histologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of myxoid liposarcoma of the parotid gland. On imaging, there was no evidence of nodal or distant metastasis. Radiation therapy was planned, but the patient refused to receive treatment. After a follow-up of 3 years, MRI showed no sign of tumor recurrence and the patient remained symptom-free. The case is original by the tumor’s location. Only 8 cases of primary parotid liposarcoma have been reported in the literature. The purpose of this article was to discuss, through our case, clinical and anatomopathological features of parotid gland liposarcomas as well as its treatment options and prognosis.
Facial emotion recognition and social-emotional problems in middle childhood: Assessment of directional effects
Authors: Laamanen Petra , Kiuru Noona , Kiviruusu Olli , Lindblom Jallu
Published: March 2024

Research has consistently shown that difficulties in facial emotion recognition (FER) are associated with peer problems and internalizing symptoms during middle childhood. However, no longitudinal research has investigated the direction of effects, that is, how these constructs influence each other across time. In this preregistered three-wave panel study, we tested the directional effects between FER, peer problems, and internalizing symptoms among Finnish school-aged children ( n = 3,607; Mage = 8.20, SDage = 0.86; 51% female). The results of random-intercept cross-lagged panel models showed that a low FER accuracy and high biases toward happiness and sadness correlated with higher levels of peer problems and internalizing symptoms at the between-person level. However, we found no evidence of directional effects at the within-person level. Overall, our findings suggest that these constructs might be associated because of shared underlying causes, rather than mutually influencing one another in middle childhood.
‘Fairest show’: Dramatic entrapment in Macbeth and Measure for Measure
Authors: Malin Peter
Published: March 2024

This article reconsiders metatheatre in Macbeth and Measure for Measure, examining how characters find themselves entrapped in scenarios not of their own making, and how the creators of such scenarios can lose control of them. It examines the plays’ metatheatrical language, with a particular focus on the word ‘show’; argues that Macbeth's cauldron scene and the final scene of Measure for Measure function as these plays’ equivalents of the familiar ‘play-within-the-play’; and tentatively suggests how the two plays’ engagement with dramatic entrapment might resonate with the manipulative control facilitated by twenty-first-century social media platforms.
Effect of annealing time on microstructure and mechanical properties of Fe–C–Mn–Al–Si steel
Authors: Xu Junjie , Zheng Wei , Jing Cainian , Lin Tao , Li Ning , Zhai Tongguang
Published: March 2024

Cold-rolled medium manganese steel (0.09C–7.23Mn–1.99Si–4.42Al wt-%) was investigated. The tested steel was treated by inter-critical annealing quenching and partitioning process. The effects of the annealing time on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the medium manganese steel were investigated by SEM, TEM, EBSD and XRD methods. The results show that, the tested steel consists of martensite, α-ferrite, δ-ferrite and retained austenite. The process has a significant effect on the diffusion of C/Mn elements and significantly changes the microstructure of the tested steel. At the same time, the austenite grain size and the degree of dispersion of its internal elements reach a balance, which is conducive to maintaining moderate stability of the massives retained austenite at room temperature.
In-situ-growth of hard-coating, its impact on mechanical performances in cemented-carbides
Authors: Wu Jianfeng , Gong Manfeng , Li Meng , Zhang Shanhua
Published: March 2024

This study focuses on preparing two types of cemented carbides: one with Ti elements and the other without, using a stepwise sintering process, primarily evaluating their mechanical properties. The research includes a thorough analysis of microstructure changes and post-wear surface alterations, coupled with assessments of phase composition, element content, relative density, surface hardness, fracture toughness, and wear properties. Results reveal that cemented carbides treated with in-situ surface modification under high-temperature nitrogen atmospheres exhibit exceptional densification. An in-situ hard-phases layer, predominantly TiN or Ti(C, N), is gradually grown on the surface of the WC-Co-Mo-TiNC cemented carbides, enhancing surface hardness and fracture toughness. This technology fortifies the material against indentation, crack expansion, and fracture, significantly improving wear resistance and extending service life. In essence, the in-situ surface modification technology, especially under high-temperature nitrogen atmospheres, emerges as a transformative approach, enhancing mechanical properties and substantially improving wear resistance for prolonged practical applications.
Static and free vibration analysis of delaminated composite plates using secant function based shear deformation theory
Authors: Bhardwaj Nitin , Sinha Abhiraj , Abhijeet Babar , Sahoo Rosalin
Published: March 2024

In this work, the static and free vibration analysis of delaminated composite plates are studied. The secant function based shear deformation theory (SFSDT), is used for the analysis of multiple delaminated models. This theory exhibits a non-linear shear stress distribution and fulfills the traction-free boundary conditions at the top and bottom surfaces of the plates, hence there is no need for a shear correction factor. The finite element method, a numerical solution-based approach is used here considering an eight-noded isoparametric quadratic element. The investigation explores the effects of delamination size, position and stacking sequence on the flexural and dynamic characteristics of the composite plates. Additionally, other geometric factors such as delamination thickness and shape are investigated to understand their impact. The study aims to identify the optimal configurations that minimize the detrimental effects of delaminations. The results provide valuable insights into the static and free vibration behaviour of delaminated composite plates, contributing to design guidelines and optimization strategies for structurally sound and efficient composite structures. Overall, this research offers a comprehensive investigation of the static and free vibration analysis of delaminated composite plates, advancing knowledge in the field and facilitating improved design practices.
The Great Terror in 1930s Kharkiv: The Case of Konrad Weisselberg and Anna Mykalo
Authors: Grudzińska Gross Irena , Kwiatkowska-Moskalewicz Katarzyna
Published: March 2024

The article presents the fate of Konrad Weisselberg (1905–1937) and his wife Anna (Galia) Mykalo (1914–1989), shedding light on the intensification of violence in Kharkiv in the 1930s and on the mechanisms of the Great Terror. Weisselberg was a chemist, an Austrian communist of Jewish origin, an ideological immigrant to the USSR, and a little-known victim of Stalin’s purges. Anna Mykalo was a peasant worker who moved to Kharkiv just before the Stalinist regime locked peasants in the countryside. The couple was associated with the Ukrainian Institute of Physics and Technology (UPTI), where prominent physicists—Soviet and foreign—worked in the 1930s. Their story is linked to post-revolutionary Kharkiv, a city of industrial utopia and the site of the Great Famine and the Great Terror.
Dynamic characteristics analysis of gear tooth modification in a three-stage gear system
Authors: Mabrouk Mahmoud , Liu Hui , Pengfei Yan , Pu Gao
Published: March 2024

Gears serve as vital elements in high-efficiency mechanical transmissions, playing a pivotal role in vehicles. Employing gear modification has the capacity to significantly enhance the dynamic properties of the Planetary Gear Transmission (PGT) systems. In this study, the investigation has been directed toward a three-stage PGT model system with a comprehensive consideration of various vibration-related factors that affect the dynamic behavior of the system. These factors are encompassed by Time Varying Mesh Stiffness (TVMS), torsion and bending forces experienced by connecting shafts, dynamic Transmission Error (TE), impact of gear meshing eccentric load forces, inherent flexibility in the supporting shaft structure, and influence of torque and power fluctuations originating from a multi-cylinder engine. The estimation of TVMS is carried out for both external-external and external-internal teeth meshing pairs, utilizing the Potential Energy Method (PEM). Subsequently, this study employs the lumped parameter method to establish a model with a specific objective of investigating the lateral-torsional-coupling behavior within adopted PGT model system. The lateral vibration displacement characteristics of the PGT model system is deeply analyzed, revealing the influence of speed on lateral vibration and displacement frequency domain characteristics through a 3D waterfall diagram. Furthermore, a Tooth Profile Modification (TPM) method is applied utilizing two distinct parameters namely [Formula: see text] TPM parameter and [Formula: see text] TPM parameter. The objective is to mitigate vibrations and evaluate the performance of the adopted PGT model after employing each TPM parameter through both TVMS and Root Mean Square (RMS).
Comparative exergy and energy analyses of compression–absorption cascade refrigeration cycles with varied configurations and ejector implementations
Authors: Bahrami Hamid-Reza , Fazli Samane
Published: March 2024

This study aims to assess the feasibility and performance, as well as the exergy loss, of utilizing ejectors in absorption–compression cascade configurations for low-temperature refrigeration systems. The coefficient of performance (COP) is used to measure system efficiency, including COP.A (COP of the absorption chiller), COP.C (COP of the compression side) and COP.Ca (COP of the cascade configuration). The results highlight the importance of ejector placement on the absorption side for optimal performance. Configuration D1, with an ejector on the absorption side, demonstrates an 85% improvement in COP.A, approximately 10% in COP.C and nearly 100% in COP.Ca compared to configurations without an ejector. However, in certain cases, using an ejector on the compression side is not feasible from a second-law perspective, particularly for higher compression-side evaporator temperatures. Nonetheless, the study suggests that configuration D0, which includes an ejector on the absorption side coupled with a simple compression cycle, is applicable for these conditions and performs similarly to D1 in other temperature ranges. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing ejector placement in absorption–compression cascade configurations and advancing the development of more energy-efficient refrigeration systems.
A comparative analysis of the blood-based hybrid nanofluid flow containing Cu and CuO nanoparticles over an exponentially extending surface
Authors: Algehyne Ebrahem A , Alamrani Fahad Maqbul , Khan Arshad , Khan Khurshid Alam , Lone Showkat Ahmad , Saeed Anwar
Published: March 2024

This work investigates thermal enhancement for Casson magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) hybrid nanofluid flow on an exponentially elongating surface. The flow is influenced by thermal radiations, chemical reactivity, and heat source/sink. A magnetic field has been applied to the flow of fluid in a direction normal to the flow system. The thermal transportation has been controlled with the help of thermophoresis and Brownian motion effects. The leading equations have been converted to a set of dimensionless forms and have then been solved by using the bvp4c technique. It has been noticed in this work that, fluid velocities have declined with growth in porosity, magnetic, and Casson factors, and there is more reduction in velocity in the case of Cu + CuO/blood-based hybrid nanofluid as compared to blood flow or Cu/blood nanofluid profiles. Thermal distribution has augmented with an escalation in heat sink/source factor, Brownian motion, thermophoresis, magnetic and radiation factors as well as Eckert number. Concentration distribution has augmented with an upsurge in Brownian motion factor, Schmidt number, and chemical reactivity factor. Nusselt number has augmented with an escalation in magnetic, radiation, and heat sink/source factors as well as Eckert number. A comparative analysis has been carried out in this work with a fine agreement with previously established data. It has been established in this work that maximum heat is transformed in the case of Cu + CuO/blood hybrid nanofluid flow on an exponentially stretching sheet.
Developments in the RCCI engines powered by several alternative fuel types: An overview
Authors: Korkmaz Safa , Yaman Hayri , Yeşilyurt Murat Kadir
Published: March 2024

The perspective on internal combustion engines (ICEs) has changed because of the step-by-step decrease in oil reserves, environmental concerns, and many other reasons. However, the use of these engines will continue in the coming years. The development of ICEs has accelerated in recent years. As a result, studies on systems that can improve performance and reduce pollution in engines are carried out by many researchers. The basis of the studies carried out in this context is the change in the combustion mode. In other words, the emergence of different combustion modes is given importance by researchers. Among these, many studies have been made on the implementation of the reactivity-controlled compression ignition (RCCI) combustion mode. RCCI engine uses two different fuels. These fuels are low-reactivity (alcohol, gasoline, etc.) and high-reactivity (diesel, biodiesel, etc.) fuels. In addition, the fact that different alternative fuel types can be employed in these engines has made them popular all over the world. This review presents the results of the effects of parameters such as fuel ratio, different injection strategies, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) rate, compression ratio, and piston geometry on the performance, emissions, and combustion behavior of RCCI engines using both conventional and alternative fuels. This study has been compiled to provide an overview of the current status of the RCCI concept and to offer benefits to researchers.
Utilising existing data for a pilot social return on investment analysis of the family wellbeing empowerment program: A justification and framework
Authors: Nolan Clare , Bridge Rosie , Holland Grace , Whiteside Mary , Baird Leslie , Andrews Suzanne , Lee Hong Anita , Tsey Komla
Published: March 2024

Demand is growing in the public, private, and philanthropic sectors for economic and quantifiable outcome data to guide decisions regarding the allocation of resources. This paper explores the challenges and opportunities in economically evaluating an Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing intervention, emphasising the value of utilising existing data. Driven by local and national Indigenous research priorities, the study involved a pilot Social Return on Investment analysis of the Aboriginal Family Wellbeing empowerment program. Underpinned by a collaborative mixed-methods approach, designed to mitigate data limitations and bolster trustworthiness, the analysis was undertaken across four stages, including a literature review to identify impacts and create a theory of change; co-design of an impacts framework; a targeted literature review to inform impact quantification and attribution; and calculation of the Social Return on Investment results. Results indicate that for every Australian dollar of investment in delivering Family Wellbeing between 2001 and 2021 in the Yarrabah Aboriginal community, A$4.60 of benefits were produced for participants and the community. The return is expected to be higher if important community and cultural impacts of the program were included in the monetisation. Data limitations and implications for future mixed methods economic evaluation of social interventions are explored.
Differentiating ‘pure’ and comorbid self-identified burnout: Diagnostic and management implications
Authors: Tavella Gabriela , Parker Gordon
Published: March 2024

Objective

A previous study identified categorically differing scores on the Sydney Burnout Measure (SBM) between individuals with self-identified burnout with ( n = 354) or without ( n = 188) a history of mental illness. The current study examined whether the SBM’s validity held in both scenarios.

Method

The factorial structure and scores on the SBM measure were compared between the two groups.

Results

Similar underlying symptom constructs were identified. The group with a mental illness history had higher general factor scores, suggesting more severe burnout. The group without such a history (and thus a ‘purer’ burnout state) had higher scores on the empathy loss factor, suggesting its greater specificity to burnout than to other psychological states.

Conclusions

Burnout appears to be experienced similarly by those with and without a mental illness history as measured by the SBM.
Off-label prescribing of psychotropics in a psychiatric patient population in Australia
Authors: Kyrios Mietta , Levido Jesse , Talbot Daniel , Harris Anthony
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate the practice of off-label prescribing in both in- and outpatient psychiatry practice.

Methods

One-hundred inpatient and 100 outpatient medical records from adult patients of an Australian psychiatry service from 2020 to 2021 were examined to determine the prevalence of off-label prescribing as defined by Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) indications, adherence to Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) treatment guidelines, frequency of off-label prescription, and the quality of documentation and informed consent process.

Results

Most prescribing events in both in- and outpatient settings were either on-label or off-label but consistent with RANZCP guidelines. Patients with a schizoaffective disorder diagnosis or displaying aggression were most likely to receive off-label prescriptions. There was no significant difference between in- and outpatient groups in the quality of documentation or consent process.

Conclusions

In general, off-label prescribing across groups was common, but many decisions were then in line with RANZCP recommendations. That there is a discrepancy between clinical and regulatory bodies has implications for how off-label status is decided.
Cross-Platform Partisan Positioning in Congressional Speech
Authors: Green Jon , Shoub Kelsey , Blum Rachel , Cormack Lindsey
Published: March 2024

Legislative activity—whether votes or communications—is often represented in a single partisan or ideological dimension. But as lawmakers communicate in various venues (e.g., traditional, direct, or social media), the extent to which these estimates are interchangeable—reflecting a common underlying dimension—is unclear. We estimate a partisan dimension in members’ tweets, Facebook posts, e-newsletters, press releases, and one-minute House floor speeches for the 116th U.S. Congress and test the extent to which representations remain consistent across different venues. We find that while Democrats are consistently separable from Republicans, members’ relative intra-party positions frequently shift between venues. This is likely driven by differences in the affordances and audiences present in each venue, as venues with more nationalized audiences (such as social media) show higher levels of rhetorical polarization than venues with more local audiences (e-newsletters). These results suggest that the level of polarization we observe depends on where we look, and that the scholars of congressional communication should explicitly consider the input they use to measure partisanship.
Pathways to Resistance: Theorizing Trauma and Women's Use of Force in Intimate Relationships
Authors: Becker Patricia , Miller Susan L. , Iovanni LeeAnn
Published: March 2024

Using a feminist pathways general strain perspective, we explore the victim–offender continuum for women who perpetrated intimate partner violence/abuse (IPV/A). We use data from 86 women court-mandated to “female offender” domestic violence treatment programs, located in an American East Coast state, who were surveyed about their adverse childhood experiences and mental health/well-being as adults. Findings from bivariate linear regressions indicate childhood trauma negatively affects adult mental health/well-being, exacerbated for Black Indigenous People of Color women, suggesting a victim rather than an offender categorization for women using force against their abusive partner. Results imply the need to consider women's traumatic histories and IPV/A victimization, given an incident-driven system that criminalizes victimization over the life course.
Palonosetron in pediatric patients: A single-center, retrospective evaluation of policy and clinical practice guideline discordance
Authors: Ames Meredith , Patel Priya , Dupuis L Lee , Koo Alicia
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) recommending palonosetron for the prevention and management of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) were adapted for use at our institution. Palonosetron was restricted for use in patients experiencing breakthrough CINV and receiving highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC) or undergoing stem cell transplant conditioning and in patients with refractory CINV receiving HEC. Given the significant cost of palonosetron, we aimed to determine the proportion of chemotherapy blocks where palonosetron use was discordant with the institutional policy or source CPG.

Methods

A retrospective review of the health records of patients who received palonosetron between 1 July 2019 and 30 June 2020 was undertaken. Details of palonosetron use, antiemetic regimen and the date and time of each vomit during the acute and delayed phases were collected for each chemotherapy block where palonosetron was given. Discordance with the institutional policy and the source CPG was determined by assessing the indication for palonosetron and the dose. In the subset of chemotherapy blocks where information regarding vomiting episodes was available, the extent of acute phase chemotherapy-induced vomiting (CIV) control was reported.

Results

Four hundred thirty-eight chemotherapy blocks, representing 122 patients (mean age 9 years), receiving 595 palonosetron doses were included. Palonosetron use was discordant with institutional policy during most (72%; 314/438) of the chemotherapy blocks analyzed. However, palonosetron use was concordant with the source CPG during most chemotherapy blocks (74%; 326/438). Complete CIV control during the acute phase was observed in 66% (195/295) of chemotherapy blocks where palonosetron was given, irrespective of concomitant antiemetics administered.

Conclusion

The majority of palonosetron use at our institution was discordant with institutional policy, but concordant with the source CPG. Our institutional policy has since been updated to be more aligned with the source CPG.
Ultrasound cyclo plasty in advanced glaucoma: Intermediate-term success, predictors for failure and complications
Authors: Almobarak Faisal A. , Alrubean Ahmed , Alsarhani Waleed K. , Aljenaidel Abdullah
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To report the intermediate-term success rate of ultrasound cyclo plasty (UCP), predictors for failure and complications in advanced glaucoma.

Methods

This study included patients with advanced glaucoma who underwent UCP. The main outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP), the number of antiglaucoma medications, and the presence of complications. Success was defined as an IOP reduction ≥30% and IOP between 6 mmHg and 18 mmHg with no vision-threatening complications. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was performed to identify possible predictors for failure.

Results

We included 65 eyes of 58 patients in the study. The mean IOP and number of antiglaucoma medications decreased significantly from 27.60 ± 5.5 mmHg and 3.40 ± 0.9 at baseline to 17.80 ± 8.0 mmHg (35.51% reduction) and 2.43 ± 1.3 at 12 months and 17.10 ± 8.2 mmHg (38.04% reduction) and 2.41 ± 1.5 at 24 months, respectively ( p < 0.01 for both). The success rates were 66.2% (43/65) and 72.4% (21/29), while the failure rates were 33.8% (22/65) and 27.6% (8/29) at 12 and 24 months postoperatively, respectively. The cumulative probabilities of overall success were 67.7 ± 5.8% and 33.8 ± 5.9% at 12 and 24 months, respectively. High baseline IOP and history of old glaucoma surgery were associated with a higher risk for failure (Hazard ratio = 1.10 and 5.82, p = 0.03 and p < 0.01, respectively). The most common complications were anterior chamber reaction (18.5%) and cataract development/progression (15.4%). Two eyes (3.1%) developed phthisis bulbi.

Conclusions

Although UCP is effective in lowering IOP in eyes with advanced glaucoma, the intermediate-term success rates were moderate.
Slow coagulation versus micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation for refractory childhood glaucoma
Authors: Seixas Regina Cele Silveira , Russ Heloisa Helena Abil , Maestrini Heloisa Andrade , Balbino Marcos , Fernandes Thatiana Almeida Pereira , Lima Núbia Vanessa dos Anjos , Lopes Nara Lídia Vieira , Neto Taurino dos Santos Rodrigues
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To compare the safety and efficacy of micropulse laser (MP-TSCP) and slow coagulation transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCP) with a diode laser for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with refractory childhood glaucoma (CG).

Methods

Patients with CG and at least 12 months of medical chart data were included. Data on preoperative and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. The primary outcomes were an IOP of 6–21 mmHg and/or ≥ 20% reduction in the baseline value.

Results

A total of 17 eyes were included. The preoperative mean IOP was 28 mmHg in the MP-TSCP and 29.9 mmHg in the TSCP. The mean IOP decreased significantly to 17.26 ± 3.27 mmHg in the MP-TSCP and 14.68 ± 5.79 mmHg TSCP at the last medical record. Three anti-glaucoma meds were administered to the eyes preoperatively in both groups. A mean of 1.02 eye drops was administered to the MP-TSCP and 2.06 to the TSCP. The number of medications decreased by 2.38 ± 1.55 in the MP-TSCP and 0.82 ± 1.68 in the TSCP. The median preoperative visual acuity (logMAR) was 1.51 ± 1.06 in the MP-TSCP and 1.87 ± 0.74 in the TSCP. The variation in mean visual acuity (logMAR) was −0.027 ± 0.05 in the MP-TSCP and −0.40 ± 0.58 in the TSCP. The most frequent complication was corneal decompensation (one - MP-TSCP and two - TSCP).

Conclusion

Both techniques were effective and relatively safe for reducing IOP. These techniques appear to extend the indications of cyclophotocoagulation in CG eyes and improve the functional prognosis.
Improving Medical Student Knowledge and Reducing Stigmatizing Attitudes Toward Treating Patients With Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Chung Dana H. , Slat Stephanie , Rao Aditi , Thomas Jennifer , Kehne Adrianne , Macleod Colin , Madden Erin F. , Lagisetty Pooja
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

Stigma and lack of knowledge are barriers to clinicians when caring for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). In 2018, only about 15 out of 180 American medical schools had comprehensive addiction programs. The AAMC reports that institutions are increasingly incorporating competencies to address the OUD and opioid epidemic. There have been few evaluated curriculums focused on reducing stigmatizing attitudes. This study evaluated whether a 4-hour case-based curriculum focused on improving stigmatizing attitudes toward patients with OUD could reduce medical student perceptions around viewing addiction as a punitive condition and other substitution-based misconceptions around opioid agonist-based medication.

Methods:

Medical students completed a 4-hour curricular workshop which included learning objectives focusing on barriers to healthcare/stigmatizing attitudes, effective behavioral therapy options, and appropriate use of opioid medications. We measured changes in knowledge and attitudes using validated scales on stigma. Non-parametric repeated measure tests determined statistically significant differences between pre and post assessments between OUD related perceptions and a control condition (diabetes).

Results:

Of 135 eligible participants, 99 (76%) students completed both pre- and post-surveys. Mean scores across knowledge questions improved (60%-81%, P < .001) and stigmatizing attitudes regarding perceived violence of people with OUD decreased (2.04-1.82, P = .016). There was significant improvement in mean scores for OUD-related opinions including desire to work with and effectively treat patients with OUD (3.58-3.88, P < .001) while no significant concurrent change was observed in mean opinion scores of a non-OUD comparator, diabetes (3.88-3.97, P = .201).

Conclusions:

Results indicate that the workshop was associated with measurable changes in knowledge and attitudinal forms of OUD stigma. With recent policy changes eliminating the X-waiver, healthcare institutions are eager to design curriculum around OUD management and treatment. This study provides a blueprint for an effective curriculum that improves clinician knowledge and reduces stigmatizing attitudes.
‘I’ve tried not to show it too much, and not burden others with my problems’: A discourse analysis of understandings of grief among siblings bereaved by drug-related deaths
Authors: Meen Gunhild , Reime Monika Alvestad , Selseng Lillian Bruland
Published: March 2024

This article explores discourses of grief and loss among siblings bereaved by drug-related deaths. Although sociocultural context influences how grief is expressed and understood, there is a lack of knowledge about how prevailing discourses on grief provide conditions for dealing with grief. The aim of this study was to draw attention to cultural understandings of grief with the research question: ‘Following a drug-related death, how do bereaved siblings draw on discourses in their talk about grief and how do they position themselves accordingly as bereaved?’ We also examined some social consequences of siblings’ positionings. The data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 10 bereaved adult siblings talking about their experiences. The data were analysed using the interpretative repertoires and positioning perspectives from discourse psychology. Findings revealed four interpretative repertoires displaying a variety of talk about grief: grief as being visibly affected; grief as a hierarchy; grief as something to be managed; grief as a reaction which follows death. These repertoires portray different understandings of grief used by siblings in meaning-making relating to their own experiences of bereavement. The positions produced by the repertoires have consequences for bereaved siblings’ access to help and support. Siblings frequently placed themselves or were placed in positions that produced a lack of social recognition of their grief and hence they were deprived of help and support.
Improved softened truss model of prestressed concrete box girders subjected to combined bending and torsion
Authors: Zhang Hao , Zhao Qiu , Xiao Feng , Chen Yiyan , Yang Xiaoqiang
Published: March 2024

Prestressed concrete (PC) box girder is an innovative structure that is widely used in large-span bridges. Under eccentric loads such as vehicles, PC girders are inevitably under combined bending and torsion. To study its bending-torsional behavior, a refined full-range analysis model based on the combined action softening truss model (CA-STM) was proposed, where a simple and effective solution procedure and failure criteria were provided. The equilibrium equation, initial estimation equation for torque, and material constitutive model were modified by considering the prestressing effect to improve the CA-STM. An optimized algorithm was also employed to simplify the solution procedure instead of the traditional trial-and-error method, thus increasing the solution rate and stability. The theoretical curves predicted from the improved CA-STM exhibited great agreement with the available experimental results, and the predicted cracking and ultimate loads were also close to the experimental values. Hence, the improved CA-STM can reasonably predict the full-range mechanical response and failure modes of PC box girders subjected to combined bending and torsion, which provides great support to the design evaluation of such bridges.
Incidence of ADHD medication use among Finnish children and adolescents in 2008–2019: a need for practice changes?
Authors: Kolari Terhi A. , Vuori Miika , RÄttÖ Hanna , Varimo Eveliina A. , Aronen Eeva T. , Saastamoinen Leena K. , Ruokoniemi PÄivi T.
Published: March 2024

Aims:

This study examined the incidence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication among children and adolescents by sex and age group in Finland during 2008–2019.

Methods:

The data on children and adolescents aged 6–18 years receiving reimbursement for any attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication was collected from the nationwide register on reimbursed purchases. The incidence was calculated as a ratio of the number of new users and the number of age and sex-matched population at risk. Negative binomial models were used to calculate rate ratios (RRs).

Results:

In 2019, the incidence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication was 13.4 per 1000 boys and 4.8 per 1000 girls. Among boys, the incidence became 3.7 times greater during the observed years (RR 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.0, 6.5, P<0.0001), whereas in girls it was 7.6 times greater (RR 95% CI 2.1, 27.4, P=0.0019). The boys had 2.8 times the incidence rate compared with the girls (RR 95% CI 2.2, 3.6, P<0.0001). The increase was associated with age only among boys ( P=0.0001). The highest incidence rate 23.4 per 1000 individuals (95% CI 22.5, 24.4) was found in 2019 among 6–8-year-old boys.

Conclusions:

The incidence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication use among children and adolescents increased significantly in Finland during the study period. Incidence was higher among boys, but the increase was greater among girls. The most common group to start attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication was 6–8-year-old boys. These findings warrant critical evaluation of the diagnostic and treatment policies currently available in Finland for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and related symptoms.
How Do Consumers Evaluate Identical Products at Different Retailers? A Text Mining Approach Using Product Reviews
Authors: Jang Sungha , Hye Kang Ji , Liu Tian , Yang Huichen
Published: March 2024

We examine consumers’ evaluations of identical products at different types of retailers using Amazon’s launch of its fashion division. Drawing on product reviews of brand items carried by Amazon (the general merchandise online retailer) and Macy’s (the traditional fashion-oriented department store), we compare the topics in the reviews as important product attributes of consumer evaluations and examine the effects of these topics on ratings. We show that the product topics mentioned for identical products are generally different between Amazon and Macy’s in terms of their proportions and tone. Also, the different topics discussed at the retailers lead to different ratings, with lower evaluations for Amazon. By demonstrating the significant characteristics of the retailers, we provide managers with insights on developing and maintaining competitive advantages for the general retailer and specialty retailers.
Numerical research on the focusing characteristics of steady state sound field in finite space by combining finite element and phase conjugation methods
Authors: Liu Song , Du Yifan , Wang Yanlin , Liu Panpan , Wu Fang , Gao Peng , Song Hebin
Published: March 2024

The research on sound source identification in an infinite free sound field has been relatively in-depth, but there is relatively little research on sound source identification and localization in limited spaces, especially those with sound absorption and insulation materials. The identification and reconstruction of the acoustical steady propagation field radiated from a single frequency finite space are studied numerically using discrete elements based on the phase conjugation method by FEM. Two different kinds of array forms of phase conjugation arrays are studied for sound source localization such as the planar array and the linear array. In addition, the influences of the existence of sound-absorbing material on the wall on the focusing properties are also discussed. The numerical results show that: The phase conjugation method can completely achieve the identification and location of the acoustical source finite space no matter using the planar array form or the linear array according to FEM. The linear array form can obtain the subwavelength focusing with fewer elements. The optimal distance between the array and the sound source is 0.5 [Formula: see text] and 2 [Formula: see text] to get the best reconstruction results. The smaller the absorption coefficient, the more to meet the multi-path phase compensation principle, the better reconstruction of the sound source.
Improving the quality of the ultrasonic welded thermoset-based composites using laser surface treatment
Authors: Tirband Hamed , Akbari Davood , Faraji Kalajahi Pouya
Published: March 2024

In this article, ultrasonic welding of glass fiber-reinforced thermosetting polymers which were surface-treated by laser engraving, is investigated. Composite samples were prepared by hand lay-up method. In the next step, surface treatment of the composite samples was performed by means of a high-power laser confirming two grooved and circular patterns. Polymethylmethacrylate and polypropylene as the amorphous and semicrystalline thermoplastic intermediate layers were incorporated to create a joining between the two thermoset parts. Besides, the welding time was considered in the three different levels. In order to investigate the microstructure of the welding zone, scanning electron microscopy analysis were accomplished. Besides, lap-shear tests were performed so as to evaluate the mechanical performances of the welded parts. Morphological studies indicated that in the surface-treated samples, the penetration of the intermediate material into the welded parts is much higher than neat samples and this leads to the superior interaction between the coupling layer and the surface-treated parts. Confirming the morphological outcomes, the results of the lap-shear tests specified that the application of surface treatment using laser engraving has increased the laps-shear strength almost 5.5 times compared to the samples without preparation.
Volunteer tourism in the context of development thinking
Authors: Butcher Jim
Published: March 2024

Volunteer tourism is sometimes discussed as contributing to development goals in economically impoverished countries. Others argue that it contributes little if anything at all to material development, and others again claim that this is simply not its aim. Putting aside its contribution (or lack thereof), there is little doubt that volunteer tourism influences how development issues are constructed and mediated to the general public, framing the ways in which people’s desires to make a difference are realised. It is a ‘public face of development’ in this sense. This paper looks at volunteer tourism not as a form of development assistance per se, but instead examines how development claims associated with it intersect with important strands of development thinking. It reviews some important themes in development thinking in order to argue that it is changes in how development is conceived of that have made possible the unlikely association between a form of leisure and the erstwhile political and macro-economic aim of development. Further, it suggests that research in this area could usefully focus less on the actions of volunteer tourism providers and their clientele, and more on the underpinning ‘development’ assumptions reflected and reified through these actions.
Green synthesized silver nanoparticles for the treatment of diabetes and the related complications of hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress in diabetic rats
Authors: El-Baz Yousra G , Moustafa Amr , Ali Mohamed A , El-Desoky Gaber E , Wabaidur Saikh M , Iqbal Amjad
Published: March 2024

This study was conducted to compare the impact of cinnamon silver nanoparticles (C-Ag-NPs) and cinnamon aqueous extract (CAE) on the total body weight (TBW), body weight gain (BWG), blood count (BC), fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglycerides (TGs), total cholesterol (TC), low-density (LDL-C) and high-density (HDL-C) lipoprotein cholesterol, liver function enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) of normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. The CAE was administered to rats at different doses (50.0 and 100.0 mg/kg bw), whereas the C-Ag-NPs were ingested at doses of 25.0 and 50.0 mg/kg bw for 30 days. At the end of the experiment, the administration of high or low dosages of CAE or C-Ag-NPs to diabetic rats significantly reduced the FBG, TC, TG, and LDL-C and significantly increased the HDL-C compared with the diabetic control rats. The highest dose (50.0 mg/kg bw) of the C-Ag-NPs was the most efficient at significantly reducing ( P < 0.05) the levels of all the analyzed parameters compared with the CAE. However, the treated and normal rats did not show any hypoglycemic activity after ingesting the CAE or C-Ag-NPs. Such effects were associated with considerable increases in their BWG. The diabetic rats that ingested the CAE or C-Ag-NPs showed a gradual decrease in their FBG, TC, LDL, and TG levels, but they were still higher than those in the normal rats. Furthermore, the C-Ag-NPs and CAE considerably enhanced the hepatic (GPT, GOT, ALP, and GGT) and antioxidant biomarker enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, and GPx) in diabetic rats. Relative to the untreated diabetic control, the C-Ag-NPs were more effective than the CAE in the diabetic rats. The C-Ag-NPs exhibited a protective role against hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in the diabetic rats and modulated their liver function enzyme biomarkers and antioxidant enzyme activities more than the CAE.