bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forgotten Circulation: Reduced Mesenteric Venous Capacitance in Hypertensive Rats Is Improved by Decreasing Sympathetic Activity
Authors: Emans Tonja W. , Moraes Davi J.A. , Ben-Tal Alona , Barrett Carolyn J. , Paton Julian F.R. , McBryde Fiona D.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The mesenteric venous reservoir plays a vital role in mediating blood volume and pressure changes and is richly innervated by sympathetic nerves; however, the precise nature of venous sympathetic regulation and its role during hypertension remains unclear. We hypothesized that sympathetic drive to mesenteric veins in spontaneously hypertensive (SH) rats is raised, increasing mean circulatory filling pressure (MCFP), and impairing mesenteric capacitance.

METHODS:

Arterial pressure, central venous pressure, mesenteric arterial, and venous blood flow were measured simultaneously in conscious male Wistar and SH rats. MCFP was assessed using an intraatrial balloon. Hemodynamic responses to volume changes (±20%) were measured before and after ganglionic blockade and carotid body denervation. Sympathetic venoconstrictor activity was measured in situ.

RESULTS:

MCFP in vivo (10.8±1.6 versus 8.0±2.1 mm Hg;
P
=0.0005) and sympathetic venoconstrictor drive in situ (18±1 versus 10±2 µV;
P
<0.0001) were higher in SH rats; MCFP decreased in SH rats after hexamethonium and carotid body denervation (7.6±1.4;
P
<0.0001 and 8.5±1.0 mm Hg;
P
=0.0045). During volume changes, arterial pressure remained stable. With blood loss, net efflux of blood from the mesenteric bed was measured in both strains. However, during volume infusion, we observed net influx in Wistar (+2.3±2.6 mL/min) but efflux in SH rats (−1.0±1.0 mL/min;
P
=0.0032); this counterintuitive efflux was abolished by hexamethonium and carotid body denervation (+0.3±1.7 and 0.5±1.6 mL/min, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

In SH rats, excessive sympathetic venoconstriction elevates MCFP and reduces capacitance, impairing volume buffering by mesenteric veins. We propose selective targeting of mesenteric veins through sympathetic drive reduction as a novel therapeutic opportunity for hypertension.
Remarks on Ángel Pinillos’s Why We Doubt
Authors: Fitelson Branden
Published: February 2024

In these brief remarks, I describe the author’s Bayesian explication of the narrow function of the meta-cognitive, heuristic algorithm (pbs) that is at the heart of his psychological explanation of why we entertain skeptical doubts. I provide some critical remarks, and an alternative Bayesian approach that is (to my mind) somewhat more elegant than the author’s.
Facilitating (Further) Inhumanity: On the Prospect of Losing Article 3 echr, a Vital Guarantee for the Under-Protected
Authors: Mavronicola Natasa
Published: February 2024

Article 3 of the echr encompasses an absolute right not to be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. This right proscribes, and demands protection from, treatment which is antithetical to human dignity. Over the years, what amounts to such treatment – and the obligations flowing therefrom – has been the subject of extensive interpretation by the ECtHR and domestic courts. Applicable in many contexts beyond the conventional scenario of interrogational torture, the right’s significance – and much of the backlash it has attracted – lies chiefly in the protections it demands for persons who fall through the cracks of the political process. This comment contemplates what is at stake, in terms of Article 3’s protections, in a potential UK departure from the echr, and concludes that a loss of the protection offered under Article 3 echr would facilitate (further) inhumanity, particularly against persons who are already othered, under-protected, and victimised.
Linguistic Parallels Between the Lexemes of the Polish “Kilkanaście” and the Lithuanian “Keliolika” on the Basis of Data from Multilingual Parallel Corpora
Authors: Roszko Danuta , Roszko Roman
Published: February 2024

Linguistic Parallels Between the Lexemes of the Polish Kilkanaście and the Lithuanian Keliolika on the Basis of Data from Multilingual Parallel Corpora
The exponents of quantitative indefiniteness: Polish kilkanaście and Lithuanian keliolika form a lexical linguistic parallel. The meaning of both lexemes, indicating an approximate value in the range from 11 to 19 inclusive, is sporadically noted in natural languages. All examples of the use of these forms extracted from known multilingual parallel corpora or Polish–Lithuanian language pair were subjected to a contrastive analysis. The aim was to determine whether the convergence of the dictionary meanings of the two lexemes is reflected in the use of these forms in mutually corresponding Polish and Lithuanian sentences/segments.
 
Paralele językowe leksemów polskiego kilkanaście i litewskiego keliolika w świetle danych wielojęzycznych korpusów równoległych
Wykładniki nieokreśloności ilościowej: polskie kilkanaście i litewskie keliolika tworzą leksykalną paralelę językową. Znaczenie obu leksemów, wskazujące na przybliżoną wartość z zakresu od 11 do 19 włącznie, jest sporadycznie notowane w językach naturalnych. Analizie kontrastywnej poddano wszystkie wyekscerpowane ze znanych wielojęzycznych korpusów równoległych przykłady użycia tych form. Celem jest rozstrzygnięcie, czy zbieżność znaczeń słownikowych obu leksemów znajduje odbicie w jednoczesnym użyciu tych form we wzajemnie sobie odpowiadających segmentach polskich i litewskich.
News Nationalization in a Digital Age: An Examination of How Local Protests Are Covered and Curated Online
Authors: Jaidka Kokil , Fischer Sean , Lelkes Yphtach , Wang Yifei
Published: February 2024

News outlets are increasingly nationalizing their presentation of news stories, framing and presenting local news in a broad national context. We investigate how supply-side and curation-side factors of the news cycle contribute to the nationalization of news coverage. Through the computational analysis of 1.05 million Google news results on four days in July–August 2020, that corresponded to 1,581 news stories published on the George Floyd protests in Portland, Oregon, and Kenosha, Wisconsin, we examine the relationship between the nationalization of news coverage, stories’ search rank in Google News, and the geographic distance between the news event and the stories’ reading audience. Further, we explore the role of Google News in curating locally focused news. Our findings help to map the media ecosystem in a digital age, highlighting the influence of algorithmic power in politics and showing that excessive circulation of national news may have a profound negative impact on news diversity and social justice.
Identifying the Probability Distribution of Exchange Rates in Sri Lanka
Authors: Basnayake B. R. P. M. , Chandrasekara N. V.
Published: February 2024

The exchange rate is one of the main components that represents the status of a country’s economic condition. This study mainly focuses on identifying an appropriate distribution that can capture the asymmetric behaviour of important currency exchange rates related to Sri Lanka. The true behaviour of the exchange rates of USD, EURO, JPY, AUD, GBP, CHF, SGD and CAD in terms of LKR was determined using flexible distributions of generalised lambda distribution (GLD), Normal Inverse Gaussian and Skew-Normal. The parameter estimation was carried out by maximum likelihood estimation (MLE), while for GLD, few more parameter estimation techniques were applied. To understand how well the fitted distributions identify the real behaviour of data, we conducted the goodness-of-fit (GOF) tests. The results from Cramer–Von Mises (CvM) and Anderson–Darling (AD) GOF tests pointed out that the exchange rates data follow a GLD with the parameter estimation of maximum product of spacings (MPS). Further, plots of histograms with theoretical densities, cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) with empirical CDF and Quantile–Quantile plots illustrated the same idea. This study presented the findings based on different suitable parameter estimation techniques and this study is the first investigation on the distribution identification of exchange rates in Sri Lanka.

JEL Codes: C12,C13,G10
Thromboelastography versus thromboelastometry for unfractionated heparin monitoring in adult patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Yin Ellen B , Bracey Arthur W , Chatterjee Subhasis
Published: February 2024

Background: Monitoring the anticoagulant effect of unfractionated heparin (UFH) in extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) patients is complex but critically important to balance the risks of treatment related bleeding and circuit thrombosis. While guidelines recommend using more than one method to monitor UFH activity, the use of thromboelastometry (ROTEM) to monitor UFH in ECMO patients has not been investigated in detail.

Methods: This is an observational, single-center retrospective study looking at adult ECMO patients on UFH that had ROTEM and thromboelastography (TEG) tests obtained concurrently. A total of 20 samples were obtained from nine patients during the study period, seven of which were on veno-arterial (VA) ECMO and two of which were on veno-venous (VV) ECMO.

Results: Under institutional standard operating practice, when TEG and/or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) were considered therapeutic, intrinsic thromboelastometry clotting time (INTEM CT) was only 1.2 times higher than the normal range. TEG based monitoring compared to aPTT based monitoring tended to result in lower anti-Xa levels and less intensive anticoagulation. For the total cohort, bleeding events, driven by the need for blood transfusions, were more common compared to ischemic events (77% vs 11%; p = 0.02).

Conclusion: INTEM CT tended to be less sensitive to lower doses of UFH with a value of 1.2 times higher than the normal range when aPTT and/or TEG were considered therapeutic. Due to the relative insensitivity of ROTEM, our institution decided to continue to use TEG instead of ROTEM. Larger, multicenter trials may be helpful to validate these findings.
Exploration of bioinspired small wind turbine blade manufacturing alternatives: Defining materials and processes
Authors: Quesada-Bedoya Luis Felipe , Sandoval-Guerrero Jonathan , Bernal-Del Ro Santiago , Mejía-Gutiérrez Ricardo , Osorio-Gómez Gilberto
Published: February 2024

In the domain of Horizontal Wind Turbines, the key role of blade material and process selection is discussed. Existing methodologies and manual manufacturing processes, while addressing this issue, suffer from complexity and environmental drawbacks. To mitigate these issues, the study introduces a comprehensive methodology for the selection, implementation, testing and analysis of materials and processes for small blade construction, taking into account various constraints. The research conducts a thorough exploration of manufacturing processes, considering factors such as time, affordability, machine accessibility, repeatability, elements to be manufactured, and adaptability to complex surfaces. A systematic comparison of materials and processes, along with proposed filtering methods, reveals that rotomolding/polyurethane casting exhibits superior performance due to improved energy capture and inertia. The study underscores the importance of careful material and process selection to optimize blade efficiency and highlights the need for further research to address mechanical, economic, environmental, scalability, and material advancement challenges.
Examining Associations Between School Connectedness, Social Support, Violence, and Firearm Carrying
Authors: Pulavarthi Teja Sai , Fabio Anthony , Miller Elizabeth , Culyba Alison J.
Published: February 2024

Firearms are the leading cause of pediatric deaths. Few studies have identified protective factors that reduce the risk of firearm violence. Interpersonal factors, including school connectedness and social support, protect against multiple health-affecting risk behaviors. Therefore, this study examines associations of school connectedness and social support with firearm and weapon violence involvement. Data were gathered through an anonymous survey conducted across 13 high schools within an urban school district in 2018 ( n = 2,604) modeled on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance Survey. Separate hierarchical logistic regression models examined associations between school connectedness and social support, and the outcomes of firearm carrying and engaging in violence with a weapon on school property in the past 12 months. Models were adjusted for age, race, and covariates representing basic needs, education, and mental health. The mean age was 15.7 years, and 57.5% of youth were female. 5.8% of youth had carried firearms and 5.5% engaged in violence with a weapon on school property in the past 12 months. School connectedness was significantly inversely associated with engaging in violence with a weapon on school property (odds ratio [OR] 0.225, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.080, 0.632] and high levels of social support were significantly inversely associated with firearm carrying (OR 0.522, 95% CI [0.313, 0.870]). School connectedness and social support may be important in protecting youth from firearm and weapon-related violence. Interventions that strengthen safe and supportive interpersonal relationships within school environments and broader support systems across contexts may help reduce firearm and weapon violence involvement.
Auricular Acupressure on Breast Pain Among Breastfeeding Mothers Receiving Gentle Hand Techniques: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial
Authors: Han Shinae , Kim Bomi , Park Hyojung
Published: February 2024

Background:

Auricular acupressure influences pain reduction in patients with diseases. However, study results on its influence on breast pain, common among breastfeeding mothers, are insufficient.

Research Aim:

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of auricular acupressure on breast pain among breastfeeding mothers who also received a standard gentle hand technique.

Methods:

This was a placebo-controlled study wherein auricular acupressure was provided for 4 weeks to 52 breastfeeding mothers consulting a local breastfeeding clinic. In the intervention group, auricular acupressure was applied to specific acupoints, including Shenmen, central rim, breast, and endocrine, which are related to breast pain and postpartum lactation. For the placebo control group, auricular acupressure was applied to acupoints not related to breast pain. The degree of breast pain was assessed using a numeric rating scale and a pressure algometer.

Results:

After 4 weeks of auricular acupressure, numeric rating scale pain scores did not show a significant change. However, the pressure pain threshold for the upper left (Z = −2.202, p = .028) and upper right (t = 2.613, p = .012) areas of the right breast increased significantly in the intervention group.

Conclusion:

This study employed subjective and objective measurements to evaluate the efficacy of auricular acupressure in alleviating breast pain. The intervention shows potential as a nursing measure. Further research is required to determine the optimal intervention duration and frequency, particularly for breastfeeding parents with severe pain, and to evaluate long-term outcomes.
Race, Caste and Christian Ethics: A Decolonial Proposal
Authors: Jeremiah Anderson
Published: February 2024

Christian ethical imagination was always tempered by various social prejudices prevalent in local contexts. Particularly during modernity and subsequently through colonial expansion, the role of race and caste became central to the expansion of Christianity through missionary activity. A closer scrutiny of colonial missionary Christianity clearly suggests the significance of racialised worldview shaping theological and ethical paradigms. In particular contexts, such racialised imagination underpinned and gave credence to other forms of social prejudices, such as caste in South Asia. Through a post-colonial lens, I examine the role of race and caste in shaping Christian ethical frameworks and articulate the rationale for ‘decolonising’ the modern foundations of Christian ethics in pursuit of racial justice in our contemporary society.
Optimization and experiment research of the cylinder block of the roller piston pump
Authors: Wang Houyong , Tong Chengwei , Zhang Chenchen , Ruan Jian
Published: February 2024

The roller piston pump is a new type of axial piston pump. The pump has the advantages of high limiting speed, low noise, and vibration compared to the traditional axial piston pump. However, the structure and flow channel of the cylinder block of the roller piston pump are more complicated. When the cylinder block is subjected to high hydraulic pressure, its radial compressive deformation is large, which will lead to wear of the cylinder block and distribution shaft. For this problem, the paper will optimize the structural parameters of the cylinder block. Eight key parameters of the cylinder block are selected as the design variables, and the maximum radial deformation and mass of the cylinder block are taken as the optimization objectives. The central composite design method is used to generate 81 sets of sample data, and the second-order response surface model is obtained by regression analysis. The optimal structural parameters of the cylinder block are obtained through multi-objective optimization, and the material of the cylinder block is optimized. Finally, an experiment bench was built for experimental validation, and the efficiency of the pump was further investigated. The optimization results show that the maximum compression deformation of the inner diameter surface of the cylinder block decreases from 15.865 to 4.903 µm, and the mass of the cylinder block increases from 434.951 to 489.892 g. The experimental results show that the load-bearing pressure of the optimized roller piston pump increases from less than 15 to 35 MPa, and compared with the traditional axial piston pump, there is an increase in both mechanical efficiency and volumetric efficiency.
Les récits de filiation d’Annie Ernaux dans la perspective du care
Authors: Furlanetto Cardoso Raissa
Published: February 2024

Since the second decade of the twenty-first century, French and Québécois literary studies have identified a ‘literature of care’, a set of literary works some of whose features converge with the feminist perspective of care. Taking its cue from Larroux (2020), this article examines two of Annie Ernaux's narratives of working-class filiation, La Place (1983) and Une femme (1988), as well as ‘ Je ne suis pas sortie de ma nuit’ (1997), to assess their affinities with this perspective. First, I analyse Ernaux's attention to ordinary life. I then explore the relations between the acts of caring and writing, arguing that Ernaux's narratives somehow have the ability to take care not only of her deceased parents, but also of the working class in general. Finally, I show that the poetics at work in La Place bears witness to the author's caring attitude.
How follow-up rates in cervical cancer screening depend on organizational factors: A comparison of two population-based organized screening programmes
Authors: Fogh Jørgensen Susanne , Kellen Eliane , Haelens Annemie , Herck Koen Van , Njor Sisse Helle
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study compares the follow-up rates of non-normal cervical screening samples between Denmark and Flanders (Belgium) to illuminate whether organizational differences between the health systems might affect the follow-up rates, e.g. sending of reminders in Denmark since 2012 compared to Flanders with no such system in place.

Methods

The study population included 48,082 Danish women and 22,271 Flemish women who received abnormal or inadequate primary screening results from 2014 to 2016. The participants were followed for 24 months, and the timeliness and appropriateness of the recommended follow-up, according to national guidelines, were evaluated.

Results

After 18 months over 90% of the Danish women had received some form of follow-up, while in Flanders, this level is achieved only for those who test positive for human papillomavirus. The analysis also revealed that 10–28% of follow-ups were performed too early, with Danish women showing the highest proportions. In both regions, general practitioners (GPs) exhibited better follow-up rates compared to gynaecologists, with gynaecologists displaying a tendency towards earlier re-testing than recommended.

Conclusions

An important factor influencing the follow-up rate may be the sending of reminders in Denmark since 2012, as the follow-up rates in general were higher in this period. It is noteworthy that a reminder system is currently being implemented in Flanders and further studies on the potential effects should be studied. Additionally, the organization of the health system might influence the follow-up rate, as engaging the GP for screening in Denmark may have had a positive effect.
‘I Can Spend Forever on It Without Getting Bored’: Analyzing What College Students Like and Dislike About TikTok
Authors: Martinez Ryan J. , Brammer Sydney E. , Punyanunt-Carter Narissra M.
Published: February 2024

TikTok is a top-rated social media app used by U.S. college students, so understanding what users like and dislike about the platform is an important endeavour for contemporary media and communication scholars. To investigate such perceptions, 468 college students completed an online survey about their likes and dislikes associated with TikTok. In total, 13 unique themes emerged for likes and dislikes, respectively. The like themes included humorous content, variety/diversity of content, being entertained, community educational content, algorithm/personalisation, user interface, TikTok culture/references, short video content, creative outlet, emotion/stress management, relatable content and trending content. The dislike themes were addictive nature, negative interactions, uninteresting content, influencers/attention-seeking, cancel culture/platform drama, privacy concerns/fake news, negative emotions/mental state, revealing content (nudity), political content, TikTok platform guidelines, app functionality, advertisements and trending content. Results revealed college students’ perceptions of TikTok’s most likeable and unlikeable characteristics and users’ satisfaction with TikTok compared to other social media platforms. Implications for these findings are discussed.
The Power of Emotional Engagement: Tamil Television Serials as a Trail to Enhance Well-being and Successful Ageing among Older Adults
Authors: Natrayan Boobalakrishnan
Published: February 2024

Tamil television serials have the potential to elicit a wide variety of emotions in viewers. Emotional control and expression change as individuals age, and this change is interrelated in various ways. Positive or negative emotions, when put into practice by regulating the emotions associated with health, can result in an increase or decrease in lifespan during successful ageing. This study explores the relationship between emotional well-being and prosperous ageing in Tamil television serials among older adults. An exploratory method was adopted to understand the connection between Tamil television serials and emotional well-being for successful ageing in Tamil Nadu (a southern state of India). Fourteen older adults over 50 who watch Tamil television mega-serials from Tamil Nadu were recruited for in-depth interviews. Three themes emerged from the thematic analysis: emotional connection, life satisfaction, fortitude and ageism among older adults. The findings suggest that Tamil television serials provide emotional engagement, companionship and life satisfaction for older adults, contributing to successful ageing.
Investigating the Formation of Ethical Animal-Related Tourism Behaviors: A Self-Interest and Pro-Social Theoretic Approach
Authors: Fakfare Pipatpong , Manosuthi Noppadol , Lee Jin-Soo , Lee Sang-Mook , Han Heesup
Published: February 2024

Grounded in the theory of reasoned action, this research aims to integrate self-interest and pro-social motive variables to identify the effective conditions that influence tourists’ ethical behaviors when participating in animal-related tourism activities. Innovative statistical methods, specifically Generalized Structured Component Analysis Measurement Errors Incorporated and Necessary Condition Analysis, were used to verify a theoretical framework and identify necessary and/or sufficient conditions that contribute to tourists’ behavioral intentions (BIs) for ethical animal tourism. To provide a comprehensive understanding, this study considered animal welfare literacy and concern for animal abuse in tourism as moderators. A subgroup analysis was conducted using a rigorous methodological procedure, revealing four categories of predictive variables: necessary and sufficient, necessary but insufficient, unnecessary but sufficient, and unnecessary and insufficient. The results of the study demonstrated that a sense of moral obligation to engage in ethical animal-related tourism was a necessary and sufficient condition for BI among tourists.
Comparison of Thames Medical CAT+ Doppler and SunTech Vet 20 oscillometric devices for non-invasive blood pressure measurement in conscious cats
Authors: Casas Clara , Dye Charlotte
Published: February 2024

Objectives

A comparative assessment of systolic blood pressure (BP) measurement agreement and precision in two commonly used non-invasive BP devices was carried out in conscious cats.

Methods

Systolic BP measurements were obtained from 50 conscious cats as part of their clinical investigations. All measurements were taken by the same operator and were performed according to the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) consensus guidelines. The same cuff location and cuff size were used for paired measurements. The order of device use was randomised, and an arousal score was assigned during each procedure. Precision was assessed using standard deviation and coefficient of variance comparisons. Agreement was assessed using graphical and statistical comparisons of derived ‘delta mean’ and ‘mean of means’ data.

Results

A total of 50 cats aged between 3 months and 15 years were enrolled (29 domestic shorthair, seven domestic longhair, three British Shorthair, two Ragdoll, two Sphynx, two Persian, one Siamese, one Burmese, one Russian Blue, one Maine Coon and one Oriental) with a body weight in the range of 1.2–6.2 kg. BP measurements were in the range of 95–179 mmHg. Oscillometric measurements were associated with lower arousal scores. The Doppler device demonstrated superior repeatability precision. Body weight, sex, cuff size, cuff location, arousal score and the order in which the devices were used had no significant effect on precision or agreement. Correlation between the two devices was 0.0837 and agreement was considered clinically acceptable (<10 mmHg) in 32/50 (64%) cats. Of the 18 cats with suboptimal agreement, the oscillometric mean BP was higher in 14 (78%) cats.

Conclusions and relevance

Based on this study sample, suboptimal agreement between paired CAT+ Doppler and SunTech Vet20 oscillometric BP measurements in 36% of conscious cats suggests that these devices should not be used interchangeably. Compared with Doppler, oscillometric measurements were consistently higher, particularly at higher blood pressures. Further studies are required to assess which device has superior accuracy in conscious cats.
Aggression and Academic Misconduct Among Justice-Involved Youth: The Roles of Facility Environment, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Social Competency
Authors: Liu Lin , Zgoba Kristen M. , Low Sabina
Published: February 2024

As compared to adult populations, there is a significant dearth of studies examining official misconduct among juveniles, leaving important gaps in our knowledge. Utilizing a sample of youth completing juvenile justice residential placement in Florida across four fiscal years ( n = 5739), the current study seeks to examine the joint effects of facility environment and individual characteristics on institutional misconduct, represented by aggression and academic misconduct in facilities. Academic Youths’ severity of criminal involvement, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), emotional and communication skills, and history of violence or drugs all contributed to explaining their aggression and academic misconduct in facilities. The level of institutional security consistently emerged as a significant predictor for academic misconduct and aggression. Aggression in facilities was more sensitive to the severity of ACEs. Policy implications and limitations are discussed.
Service-Learning Through Community-Based Exercise Teaching Enhances Medical Students’ Exercise Knowledge, Counseling Confidence, and Habits
Authors: Edge Isabel , Reilly Jo Marie , Simon Greenberg Ilana
Published: February 2024

Exercise is a pivotal tool in the prevention and management of chronic disease, a cornerstone of primary care. Yet, there is little formal exercise education in medical school and many medical students feel unprepared to effectively counsel patients about exercise. Since 2019, medical students in the Primary Care Program (PCP), a primary care-focused educational track, at the Keck School of Medicine (KSOM) of the University of Southern California (USC) have taught exercise classes to the local community as part of a service-learning experience. Students receive lectures on exercise from faculty and then deliver curated bilingual English/Spanish presentations and lead exercise classes for the community. Post participation in this program, students reported (1) increased knowledge of exercise principles, (2) increased predicted likelihood of counseling patients about exercise, (3) increased confidence in providing exercise counseling, and (4) intent to make positive changes in their own exercise habits. This curriculum provides a replicable lifestyle medicine model for other medical schools seeking to enhance exercise education and train the next generation of primary care physicians.
Masculinity crisis or gender reconciliation: A corpus-assisted critical discourse analysis of the effeminate Chinese masculinity debate on social media
Authors: Zhang Lijun
Published: February 2024

Sexism and gender controversies often occur on the internet in contemporary China. The prevalence of male effeminacy is a part of the growing diversity of gender representations. This article investigates the dominant discourses surrounding the debate on male feminization, and netizens’ stance in Chinese social media discourse. By employing corpus-assisted critical discourse analysis, the study identifies four dominant discourses: resistance discourse, anti-discrimination discourse, patriarchal discourse, and nationalistic discourse. These discourses are constructed using various strategies, such as abstraction, authorization, categorization, and morality strategies, and are inextricably intertwined with China’s sociocultural background and broader social contexts. This study offers insights into the clash between conventional and liberal views on ‘soft masculinity’ and exemplifies how Chinese netizens actively leverage social media platforms to express views on gender issues.
Validating the Glenoid Track Concept Using Dynamic Arthroscopic Assessment
Authors: Rashid Mustafa S. , Tsuchiya Saho , More Kristie D. , LeBlanc Justin , Bois Aaron J. , Kwong Cory A. , Lo Ian K.Y.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Failure after isolated Bankart repair has led surgeons to consider when to address the Hill-Sachs lesion, which is thought to be a contributor to recurrent instability. One approach utilizes the glenoid track concept to determine whether a Hill-Sachs lesion is classified as “off-track,” suggesting that the addition of a remplissage procedure may aid stability. However, the accuracy and reliability of using this approach require validation using an appropriate reference.

Purpose:

To determine the accuracy and reliability of using the glenoid track concept against dynamic arthroscopic assessment of Hill-Sachs lesion engagement.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 49 patients undergoing arthroscopic Bankart repair surgery for recurrent traumatic anterior shoulder instability were enrolled in this diagnostic validation study. Shoulders were classified as on-track or off-track using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3DCT) and static arthroscopic measurements. These classifications were compared with dynamic arthroscopic assessment (engagement of the Hill-Sachs lesion on the anterior glenoid rim in the ‘athletic position’) to determine their accuracy and reliability.

Results:

The 3DCT-based measurements to determine glenoid track status had a higher positive predictive value (66% vs 42%), higher specificity (47% vs 42%), and higher accuracy (65% vs 59%) compared with static arthroscopic measurements. Static arthroscopic measurements to determine glenoid track status had a higher negative predictive value (96% vs 64%) and higher sensitivity (96% vs 81%) compared with 3DCT-based measurements. Interrater reliability (Krippendorff α) was ‘fair’ for determining the glenoid track status using 3DCT (0.368; 95% CI, 0.217-0.519) and ‘moderate’ for static arthroscopic measurements (0.523; 95% CI, 0.364-0.666). Intrarater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 3, k) was ‘moderate’ for 3DCT measurements (0.660; 95% CI, 0.444-0.798) and ‘good’ for static arthroscopic measurements (0.769; 95% CI, 0.629-0.862).

Conclusion:

Determining glenoid track status using either 3DCT or static arthroscopic measurements yielded moderate accuracy and reliability. Surgeons using the glenoid track concept to aid surgical decision-making in traumatic recurrent anterior shoulder instability should utilize 3DCT or static arthroscopic measurements with caution.
Efficient immobilization of highly stable Bacillus amyloliquefaciens spore laccase for biodecolorization of textile dyes in water
Authors: El-Bendary Magda A. , Ezzat Safaa M. , Ewais Emad A. , Al-Zalama Mohamed A.
Published: February 2024

Globally, millions of cubic meters of dye-contaminated wastewater are generated annually from the textile industry. Discharging the dye-contaminated wastewater into natural water streams is detrimental to the ecosystem and human health. Wastewater bioremediation is considered a practical solution for converting wastewater into value-added water for safe reuse especially in irrigation. The present study investigated the immobilization of highly stable spore laccase enzyme of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens A1 by entrapment and adsorption techniques. Based on the results, agarose gel was the most efficient support with 94% immobilization yield. Optimum temperature of immobilized enzyme was at 60 ℃ with complete thermal stability for 120 min. The maximum activity of immobilized enzyme was at pH 6–7 and retained 91% of its activity after 24 h incubation. It showed 100% storage stability after 8 weeks which was higher than that of un-immobilized enzyme (4 weeks). The enzyme activity was nearly stable after 8 consecutive cycles of reuse. Decolorization of 8 textile dyes was studied using the immobilized enzyme. Crystal violet, direct red 81 and acid black 24 were efficiently decolorized (94.5, 77.4, and 68.8%, respectively) within 24 h in the first cycle. Reusability of immobilized enzyme showed 74.6, 53.5, and 51.8% decolorization of the same dyes in the same order after the second cycle. Immobilized spore laccase-treated dye water was used to irrigate lentil seeds and showed germination index about 73% compared to 10.8% for untreated one indicating very low toxicity of the treated dye water.
External validation of the modified Marsh and Schnider models for medium-chain triglyceride propofol in target-controlled infusion anesthesia
Authors: Lee Seongheon , Kang Dongho , Song Eunjin , Yoo Sungah , Jeong Seongwook
Published: February 2024

Background

Propofol formulated with medium- and long-chain triglycerides (MCT/LCT propofol) has rapidly replaced propofol formulated with long-chain triglycerides (LCT propofol). Despite this shift, the modified Marsh and Schnider pharmacokinetic models developed using LCT propofol are still widely used for target-controlled infusion (TCI) of propofol. This study aimed to validate the external applicability of these models by evaluating their predictive performance during TCI of MCT/LCT propofol in general anesthesia.

Methods

Adult patients (n = 48) undergoing elective surgery received MCT/LCT propofol via a TCI system using either the modified Marsh or Schnider models. Blood samples were collected at various target propofol concentrations and at specific time points, including the loss of consciousness and the recovery of consciousness (13 samples per patient). The actual plasma concentration of propofol was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. The predictive performance of each pharmacokinetic model was assessed by calculating four parameters: inaccuracy, bias, divergence, and wobble.

Results

Both the modified Marsh and Schnider models demonstrated predictive performances within clinically acceptable ranges for MCT/LCT propofol. The inaccuracy values were 24.4% for the modified Marsh model and 26.9% for the Schnider model. Both models showed an overall positive bias, 16.4% for the modified Marsh model and 16.6% for the Schnider model. The predictive performance of MCT/LCT propofol was comparable to that of LCT propofol, suggesting formulation changes might exert only a minor impact on the reliability of the TCI system during general anesthesia. Additionally, both models exhibited higher bias and inaccuracy at target concentrations ranging from 3.5 ~ 5 ug/ml than at concentrations between 2 ~ 3 ug/ml.

Conclusions

The modified Marsh and Schnider models, initially developed for LCT propofol, remain clinically acceptable for TCI with MCT/LCT propofol.

Trial registration

This study was registered at the Clinical Research Information Service of the Korean National Institute of Health (https://cris.nih.go.kr; registration number: KCT0002191; 06/01/2017).
Experiences of pregnant Venezuelan migrants/refugees in Brazil, Ecuador and Peru: a qualitative analysis
Authors: Zaman Michele , McCann Victoria , Friesen Sofia , Noriega Monica , Marisol Maria , Bartels Susan A. , Purkey Eva
Published: February 2024

Background

It is estimated that since 2014, approximately 7.3 million Venezuelan migrants/refugees have left the country. Although both male and female migrants/refugees are vulnerable, female migrants/refugees are more likely to face discrimination, emotional, physical, and sexual violence. Currently there is a lack of literature that explores the experiences of pregnant Venezuelan migrants/refugees. Our aim is to better understand the experience of this vulnerable population to inform programming.

Methods

In the parent study, Spryng.io’s sensemaking tool was used to gain insight into the gendered migration experiences of Venezuelan women/girls. A total of 9339 micronarratives were collected from 9116 unique participants in Peru, Ecuador and Brazil from January to April 2022. For the purpose of this analysis, two independent reviewers screened 817 micronarratives which were identified by the participant as being about someone who was pregnant, ultimately including 231 as part of the thematic analysis. This was an exploratory study and an open thematic analysis of the narratives was performed.

Results

The mean age and standard deviation of our population was 25.77 ± 6.73. The majority of women in the sample already had at least 1 child (62%), were married at the time of migration (53%) and identified as low socio-economic status (59%). The qualitative analysis revealed the following main themes among pregnant Venezuelan migrants/refugees: xenophobia in the forms of racial slurs and hostile treatment from health-care workers while accessing pregnancy care; sexual, physical, and verbal violence experienced during migration; lack of shelter, resources and financial support; and travelling with the hopes of a better future.

Conclusion

Pregnant Venezuelan migrants/refugees are a vulnerable population that encounter complex gender-based and societal issues that are rarely sufficiently reported. The findings of this study can inform governments, non-governmental organizations, and international organizations to improve support systems for pregnant migrants/refugees. Based on the results of our study we recommend addressing xenophobia in health-care centres and the lack of shelter and food in host countries at various levels, creating support spaces for pregnant women who experience trauma or violence, and connecting women with reliable employment opportunities and maternal healthcare.
Comparing forceps and self-assembled intraocular rare earth magnet in removing metallic intraocular foreign bodies in 25-guage vitrectomy
Authors: Li Huajin , Zheng Kailing , Wang Huihang , Xie Maosong
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To compare the efficacy and efficiency of self-assembled intraocular rare earth magnet and forceps in removing intraocular foreign bodies(IOFBs) undergoing 25-gauge(G) pars plana vitrectomy.

Methods

A total of 30 patients with metallic IOFB underwent 25-G PPV were enrolled into this study. Self-assembled intraocular rare earth magnet were used in 15 patients(bar group), and forceps were used in 15 patients(forceps group). Success rate of removing IOFB, time taken to remove IOFB, incidence of IOFB slippage and fall, iatrogenic retinal damages were compared between the two groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in success rate of removing IOFBs between the groups(93.3% and 100%, P > 0.99). The median time taken of removing FB was significantly shorter in bar group than in forceps group(112 and 295 s, P = 0.001). None of the patients in bar group had IOFB slippage and fall, or related iatrogenic retinal damage in the process of removal. In forceps group, IOFB slippage and fall during removal were observed in 7 of 15(47.6%) patients, related iatrogenic retinal injuries were recorded in 6 of 15(40.0%) patients, both were significantly higher than bar group(P = 0.003 and P = 0.017, respectively).

Conclusions

Compared with forceps, the assembled intraocular magnet can greatly reduce the possibility of IOFB slippage and fall, prevent related iatrogenic retinal damage, and shorten the time taken to remove IOFB. The assembled intraocular magnet can be an useful tool in removing metallic IOFBs in PPV.
The relationship between postpartum negative life events and postpartum depression: a moderated mediation model of neuroticism and psychological flexibility
Authors: Hu Ningning , Luo Jie , Xiang Wei , Yang Guiying , Huang Ting , Guan Li , Xu Jufang , Peng Biao
Published: February 2024

Background

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health problem worldwide. Previous studies have shown that postpartum negative life events and neuroticism are both important risk factors for PPD. However, few studies have considered the role of protective factors in the influence of postpartum negative life events and neuroticism on PPD. Based on the diathesis–stress model and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a moderated mediating model was established to examine the mediating role of neuroticism between postpartum negative life events and PPD, as well as the moderating role of psychological flexibility in this mediating effect.

Methods

A sample of 776 parturients from three different Grade A hospitals in China were assessed using the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale, the Postpartum Negative Life Events Scale, the Neuroticism Subscale of the Big Five Personality Scale, and the Acceptance and Action Questionnaire– II.

Results

PPD, postpartum negative life events, neuroticism, and experiential avoidance were significantly positively correlated with one another. Neuroticism partially mediated the relationship between postpartum negative life events and PPD. In this mediation model, the direct path and the second half of the mediation path were moderated by psychological flexibility. Specifically, the links between postpartum negative life events and PPD, as well as between neuroticism and PPD, were stronger when psychological flexibility was low, but weaker when psychological flexibility was high.

Conclusions

The results show that psychological flexibility plays an important role in buffering the negative effects of postpartum negative life events and neuroticism on PPD. These findings provide implications for the prevention and intervention of PPD using an ACT approach.
An analysis of influencing factors of oral frailty in the elderly in the community
Authors: Hu Shuying , Li Xia
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the current situation of oral frailty (OF) in the elderly in the community in China and analyse its influencing factors.

Methods

Using convenience sampling, 380 elderly people from three communities in our city were selected as participants in the study. The Oral Frailty Index-8, the Frailty Scale, the Oral Health Assessment Tool, the Mini-nutritional Assessment Scale and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were used to investigate and analyse OF influencing factors.

Results

In this study, the 380 elderly participants were categorized into three groups: frailty, pre-frailty, and non-physical frailty, based on their responses to the questionnaires.The influencing factor analysis showed that age, gender, education level, frailty score, frailty stage, number of dentures, dry mouth, subjective chewing difficulty, oral health score and sleep quality were the influencing factors of OF in the elderly in the community (R2 = 0.712, F = 434.73, P < 0.05). The evaluation of the prediction results showed that the frailty score (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.751, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.683–0.862), subjective chewing difficulty (AUC: 0.765, 95% CI: 0.655–0.831) and sleep quality (AUC: 0.736, 95% CI: 0.652–0.781) had a higher predictive value for OF.

Conclusion

The main OF influencing factors in the elderly in the community are age, gender, education level, physical frailty (PF) score, PF stage, number of dentures, dry mouth, subjective chewing difficulties, oral health score and sleep quality. Nursing staff should pay attention to the OF of the elderly in the community and take targeted intervention measures in time to reduce and control OF occurrence and progression.