bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Societal Duty or Pragmatic Paradox? Exploring Midwives’ Experiences of Contradictory Work Demands During COVID-19 Lockdowns
Authors: Greenslade-Yeats James , Mharapara Tago L. , Clemons Janine H. , Jackson Talei
Published: December 2024

We theorize how the nested-ness and knotted-ness of a pragmatic paradox shapes the experience of ensuing tensions. Our theorization draws on a qualitative, abductive study of essential workers (midwives) who were forced to accept contradictory work demands during COVID-19 lockdowns. Midwives experienced these demands as performing tensions stemming from an interconnected need to both protect wellbeing and risk wellbeing in their professional roles. In turn, midwives’ performing tensions were knotted with belonging tensions and nested within organizing tensions faced by societal leaders. Surprisingly, we found that although most midwives experienced contradictory and unrefusable demands as a disempowering pragmatic paradox, some experienced the same demands as a motivating duty. The crux was how midwives interpreted the alignment between knotted performing and belonging tensions. Our research provides a more nuanced view of how workers “live through” pragmatic paradoxes and offers insights into the complex interplay between power asymmetries and multi-level, interwoven paradoxes.
Inclusion in the Classroom: Student Teachers’ Views on Affirming Gender and Sexual Diversity
Authors: Haitembu Rauna K. , Mbongo Emilia N.
Published: December 2024

Research shows that gender and sexually diverse learners face discrimination in schools; however, there is little evidence of affirming gender and sexual diversity in Namibian classrooms. This qualitative case-study investigated student teachers’ views on affirming gender and sexual diversity in the classroom. The researchers purposively selected 90 student teachers. Semistructured focus group interviews revealed that gender and sexuality were not considered as a form of diversity in the classroom. However, participants understood the importance of affirming gender and sexual diversity in the classroom. The study demonstrated a need for intense gender and sexual diversity content in the pre-service teacher curriculum.
Fibromatosis-Like Metaplastic Carcinoma of the Breast: A Challenging Diagnosis With Potential Pitfalls
Authors: Laokulrath Natthawadee , Gudi Mihir Ananta , Tan Puay Hoon , Tan Tessa Ying Zhen , Lim Geok Hoon
Published: December 2024

Fibromatosis-like metaplastic carcinoma (FLMC) is a rare subtype of metaplastic carcinoma of the breast. Diagnosing this entity poses significant challenges, particularly in core biopsies due to limited sampling and overlap with benign spindle cell lesions such as nodular fasciitis and fibromatosis. We present an example of FLMC in an asymptomatic middle-aged woman. As her breast imaging revealed an irregular lobulated mass, a core biopsy was performed which showed benign breast tissue with fibrosis. However, this was discordant with her imaging findings, hence a subsequent vacuum-assisted biopsy was done which revealed low-grade spindle cell proliferation, consistent with FLMC. This report emphasizes the necessity of a triple assessment and highlights the potential pitfalls in diagnosing FLMC, particularly the risk of misinterpretation due to its histological similarities with benign entities. Understanding these challenges will be crucial to avoid diagnostic delays of this rare breast cancer subtype.
Earthquake From the Perspectives of Amputee Children and Their Parents/Caregivers: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Suna Dağ Yeliz , Zengin Mürşide , Yayan Emriye Hilal , Suna Erdoğan
Published: December 2024

Background

Earthquakes cause significant psychological and physical trauma in children, especially when leading to amputations, as they disrupt physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Aim

This study was conducted phenomenologically to explore the experiences of children amputated in the Kahramanmaraş earthquake and their parents/caregivers.

Method

This study was conducted as a phenomenological study with children who were amputated in the Kahramanmaraş earthquake and their parents/caregivers between August and October 2023. The sample of the study consisted of seven children and their parents/caregivers who met the inclusion criteria and volunteered to participate in the study through purposive sampling method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using an introductory information form and a semistructured interview form developed by the researcher.

Results

It was found that 57.2% of the children who participated in our study were male and their mean age was 11.25 ± 4.02 years. It was found that all the children’s houses were destroyed in the earthquake, they were trapped under the debris, and they experienced losses in their family members and relatives. As a result of data analysis, nine themes were identified as apocalypse, pain, fear, and hopelessness for children and apocalypse, helplessness, pain, anger, and hopelessness for parents/caregivers.

Conclusions:

This study found that earthquake-affected amputee children perceived the earthquake as an apocalypse, experienced prolonged pain during hospitalization, continued to fear the earthquake, and felt hopeless about the future. The children’s parents/caregivers also reported that they perceived the earthquake as an apocalypse, that they felt helpless and hopeless for themselves and the children, and that the children had angry/irritable behavior with pain after the disaster.
Characteristics of Climbers with High Altitude Pulmonary Edema on Mount Aconcagua
Authors: Park Andrew , Brillhart Aaron , Sethi Sameer , Abramor Bernabé , Duplessis Rodrigo , Pronce Roxana , Seufferheld Javier , Schlein Sarah
Published: December 2024

Introduction—

Mount Aconcagua (6961 m) in Argentina is the highest peak in the Americas, and more than 3000 climbers attempt to summit annually. High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) is a leading cause of mortality and evacuation on Aconcagua.

Objective—

This study sought to describe the characteristics of climbers who developed HAPE on Aconcagua to aid in future prevention efforts.

Methods—

Climbers diagnosed with HAPE in January 2024 were surveyed regarding demographics, preparation, acclimatization, and illness. Healthy climbers on Aconcagua also were surveyed for the same period, providing a control population.

Results—

Seventeen climbers were diagnosed with HAPE. These climbers were similar to climbers without HAPE in age, sex, origin, home elevation, hypoxic tent use, staged ascent, recent virus exposure, fitness metrics, and ascent-rate plans. Climbers with HAPE spent fewer nights at the 4300-m base camp (3.6 vs 5.0 nights). Prior to developing HAPE, 71% of patients reported unresolved acute mountain sickness symptoms. HAPE onset median elevation was 5500 m, with a median of 8.0 days over 3000 m and a median lowest SpO2 of 60% at diagnosis. There was a nonsignificant trend between acetazolamide use and increased HAPE. All surveyed HAPE patients descended, required helicopter evacuation, and survived.

Conclusion—

This study examined climbers who developed HAPE on Mount Aconcagua, yielding implications for high altitude illness prevention efforts and further study. HAPE cases were associated with insufficient nights at the 4300-m base camp and unresolved acute mountain sickness symptoms. The relationship between acetazolamide and HAPE warrants further study on Aconcagua.
Exhibitor Loyalty Through Trust, Participation and Citizenship Behaviors – Moderating Effect of First-Time and Repeat Exhibitors
Authors: Lee Jiwon , Ryan Chris
Published: December 2024

This study examines the relationships between the variables “trust,” “participation,” “citizenship behaviors,” and “loyalty.” It also identifies the moderating effect of “exhibitor frequency at exhibitions.” Analyzing data from 240 exhibitors at major business-to-business (B2B) exhibitions in Seoul, Korea, the study found that “trust” positively influenced “participation,” “citizenship behaviors,” and “loyalty,” with “citizenship behavior” being the only significant predictor of “loyalty,” supporting four of six proposed hypotheses derived from social exchange theory. Additionally, exhibitors who attended more than twice demonstrated more proactive behavior and greater loyalty based on trust, thereby reinforcing exhibitor frequency as a moderating variable. These findings provide a theoretical basis and practical recommendations for exhibition promotion in the MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) context.
COVID-19 Increases the Risk of New Myocardial Infarction in Patients with Old Myocardial Infarction: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: El-Menyar Ayman , Ramzee Ahmed Faidh , Asim Mohammad , Shahid Fakhar , Ata Yaser M , El Baba Hamzah , Fino Areen , Nair Arun P , Peralta Ruben , Almaslamani Muna A , Al Suwaidi Jassim , Al-Thani Hassan , Rizoli Sandro
Published: December 2024

Background:

We aimed to investigate the incidence of new acute myocardial infarction (AMI), in patients with Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) who had old MI. We hypothesized that COVID-19 increases the rate of repeated AMI in this population regardless of age and gender.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted for adult patients admitted with COVID-19 and developed thromboembolic event (TEE) in 2020. Patients were categorized based on the history of old MI, new MI, age, and gender.

Results:

Among 16,903 patients with COVID-19 who were admitted, 210 (1.2%) developed TEE (89% were males, 55% were <55 years old, and 80.5% had an old MI). COVID-19 was severe in 32% of cases. AMI occurred in 160 patients (42.5% STEMI and 57.5% NSTEMI). In patients with prior MI, 92.5% developed another AMI. NSTEMI was higher in patients with severe COVID-19 than STEMI (33% vs 21%). Patients with severe COVID-19 had higher mortality (39.4% vs 5.6%), fewer rates of prior MI (74% vs 83%), hypertension (40% vs 60%), and STEMI (31.8% vs 46.5%) than mild COVID-19 patients. On multivariable analysis, COVID-19 severity was an independent predictor of mortality (OR10; 95%CI 1.62-67.19) after adjustment for age, gender, diabetes mellitus, C-reactive protein, serum Ferritin, Procalcitonin, and Fibrinogen values, and prior or new MI.

Conclusions:

Patients with old MI could develop a new AMI in 80% of COVID-19. However, the mortality was higher in patients without a history of MI due to the severity of COVID-19. Attention should be given to patients who possess thrombotic risk factors in pandemics.
From “invisible” to “audible”: Features extracted during simple speech tasks classify patient-reported fatigue in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Nylander Alyssa , Sisodia Nikki , Henderson Kyra , Wijangco Jaeleene , Koshal Kanishka , Poole Shane , Dias Marcelo , Linz Nicklas , Tröger Johannes , König Alexandra , Hayward-Koennecke Helen , Pedotti Rosetta , Brown Ethan , Halabi Cathra , Staffaroni Adam , Bove Riley
Published: December 2024

Background:

Fatigue is a major “invisible” symptom in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS), which may affect speech. Automated speech analysis is an objective, rapid tool to capture digital speech biomarkers linked to functional outcomes.

Objective:

To use automated speech analysis to assess multiple sclerosis (MS) fatigue metrics.

Methods:

Eighty-four PwMS completed scripted and spontaneous speech tasks; fatigue was assessed with Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS). Speech was processed using an automated speech analysis pipeline (ki elements: SIGMA speech processing library) to transcribe speech and extract features. Regression models assessed associations between speech features and fatigue and validated in a separate set of 30 participants.

Results:

Cohort characteristics were as follows: mean age 49.8 (standard deviation ( SD) = 13.6), 71.4% female, 85% relapsing-onset, median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 2.5 (range: 0–6.5), mean MFIS 27.6 ( SD = 19.4), and 30% with MFIS > 38. MFIS moderately correlated with pitch ( R = 0.32, p = 0.005), pause duration ( R = 0.33, p = 0.007), and utterance duration ( R = 0.31, p = 0.0111). A logistic model using speech features from multiple tasks accurately classified MFIS in training (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.95, R2 = 0.59, p < 0.001) and test sets (AUC = 0.93, R2 = 0.54, p = 0.0222). Adjusting for EDSS, processing speed, and depression in sensitivity analyses did not impact model accuracy.

Conclusion:

Fatigue may be assessed using simple, low-burden speech tasks that correlate with gold-standard subjective fatigue measures.
Multiplicity and the problem of ‘society’
Authors: Rosenberg Justin
Published: December 2024

This article seeks to address a major shortcoming of the idea of Societal Multiplicity in international theory: its lack of a worked-out definition of what counts as ‘a society’. The article supplies this definition in four steps. First, it reviews some difficulties in defining ‘society’, arguing that these arise in part from the historical separation of social and international theory. Second, it interweaves resources from both traditions to argue: (a) that societal multiplicity reflects the specifically political separation of human populations; (b) that this separation arises in part due to centripetal properties of the political as a feature of social life; and (c) that an individual ‘society’ is best defined as a unit of the resultant multiplicity: a social formation that exists simultaneously as a geopolitical sub-division of the social world. Third, the article defends this definition against a series of objections – that it is too general, that it reifies the state, that it is methodologically nationalist and that it suppresses historical variety. And finally it inserts the definition into the idea of Societal Multiplicity in order to test how far, and with what consequences in International Relations and beyond, this closes the definitional gap left by the original formulation of that idea.
The impacts of macro, meso, and micro antecedents on environmentally responsible behavior on tourism
Authors: He Xuehuan , Su Lujun , Swanson Scott R.
Published: December 2024

This study explored antecedents to tourist environmentally responsible behavior (ERB). An integrated model was constructed and tested using an analytical framework that categorized antecedents of ERB into macro (cultural factors: collectivism, biospheric value), meso (destination factors: environmental quality, environmental policy), and micro (personal factors: environmental knowledge, environmental awareness) levels with environmental attitude positioned as a mediating construct. Findings from Chinese tourists ( n = 524) suggested that the investigated factors directly impact environmental attitude, which then act to strengthen ERB. Findings suggested that environmental attitude acts to partially (collectivism, environmental quality, environmental policy) or fully (biospheric values, environmental knowledge and awareness) mediate antecedent relationships with ERB.
Hf-doped amorphous filler metal towards high-performance TC4/SS316L brazed joints
Authors: Bano Aqsa , Li Peng , Qin Zhiwei , Zhang Zhenyang , Han Wenqian , Jiang Xin , Dong Honggang
Published: December 2024

Conventional welding poses significant challenges when directly joining titanium alloys and stainless steels due to their inherent physical and metallurgical properties variances. The primary challenge in achieving durable joints is to avoid the formation of brittle Ti–Fe intermetallic compounds (IMCs). In this study, Hf-doped amorphous filler material was employed to join TC4/SS316L dissimilar metals by vacuum brazing, achieving a maximum shear strength of 380 MPa under 910 °C/10 min at 1.25 at.% Hf. The interfacial microstructures consisted of the sequence: β-Ti/α-Ti/β-Ti + Ti2(Cu, Ni)/Ti2(Cu, Ni)/Ti2(Zr, Ni)+TiCu/Ti2(Ni, Cu, Fe)/γ-(Fe, Ni) + σ. This study presents a successful approach for the brazing of titanium alloy with stainless-steel alloy for high-precision components in the field of aerospace and nuclear sectors.
Influence of Y2O3 on microstructure and properties of 800 MPa high-strength steel weld metal
Authors: Zhang Tianli , Guan Jian , Xu Lianyong , Hu Donghai , Chen Geng , Wang Shanshan , Erika Hodúlová
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the effect of Y2O3 on the microstructure and properties of 800 MPa high-strength steel weld metal using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical testing. The groove faces and contacting surfaces of the base material, hot-rolled Q235 carbon steel, were buttered using high-strength steel metal-powder cored wires. The main welding parameters employed in the experiments included a voltage range of 29–31 V, a current range of 220–240 A, a welding speed of 250–260 mm/min, and shielding gases consisting of 80% Ar and 20% CO2. The results indicated that the addition of 1% Y2O3 effectively refined the grain structure, resulting in a acicular ferrite content of 80%. Furthermore, Y2O3 promoted the refinement and spheroidisation of inclusions, leading to an improvement in the toughness of the weld metal. Y2O3 also enhanced the lath microstructure and inhibited the formation of martensite and bainite. The mode of crack formation shifted from boundary cracking to the surface shear stress-induced decohesion of inclusions due to the presence of Y2O3. The weld metal containing 1% Y2O3 exhibited excellent mechanical properties, with a tensile strength of 769 MPa and an impact absorbed energy of 70 J.
‘For us it’s our life!’ – Queer utopian imaginaries in times of pandemic
Authors: Trzeciak Miriam Friz , Busche Mart
Published: December 2024

Our paper investigates how members of queer subcultures navigated the temporary closure and loss of queer spaces during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a Sociology of Knowledge Approach to Discourse to analyze audio-visual materials on three queer sites in Berlin in 2020, we examine multi-faceted processes of meaning-making that invoke imaginaries of ‘queer utopia’. Examining subject positions and interpretative schemes, we show that dealing with the heteronormative pandemic regulations perpetuates processes of social isolation and invisibilization. Furthermore, in the context of queer utopian memory-making, knowledge formations about subcultural locations are used to mobilize distinct visions of queerness.
Bond-slip behavior and model of sand-coated deformed GFRP bars in ultra-high-performance concrete
Authors: Peng Fei , Guan Haoqi , Deng Jidong , Xue Weichen
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to investigate the bond-slip behavior and model of sand-coated deformed glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars embedded in ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). For this purpose, a total of 24 pull-out specimens were tested to failure, varying embedded lengths (2 d b,3 d b,4 d b and 5 d b, where d b represents the diameter of the bar) and steel fiber volume fractions (1% and 2%). It was observed that as the embedded length or fiber volume fraction increased, the failure mode changed from progressive pull out of GFRP bars (pullout failure) to rupture of GFRP bars (rupture failure). Both modes of bond failure experienced damage at GFRP-UHPC interface due to the delamination of the outside layer of GFRP bars. The bond-slip response of GFRP bars exhibited four stages: micro slip stage, ascending stage, descending stage, and residual stage. The bond strength of GFRP bars embedded in UHPC exhibited an increasing trend with the fiber volume fraction, while it demonstrated a declining trend with the increasing embedded length. For specimens with fiber volume fraction of 1% and 2%, the bond strength decreased by 24.4% and 8.0%, respectively, as the embedded length increased from 2 d b to 4 d b. In addition, a database consisting of 200 bond specimens including 24 test specimens from this study was established to statistically derive a bond strength equation for GFRP bars embedded in UHPC. Furthermore, a bond-slip model was proposed to describe the bond-slip behavior of sand-coated deformed GFRP bars embedded in UHPC.
Vehicle active suspension control considering parameter uncertainty and velocity variation
Authors: Li Qiangqiang , Chen Zhiyong
Published: December 2024

Due to the uncertainty in vehicle model parameters, the control performance of active suspensions often deteriorates, especially under extreme conditions such as high velocities and full loads. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a novel robust finite frequency H ∞ output feedback control strategy based on linear parameter varying (LPV) systems. First, we establish a new LPV model for the half-car active suspension control system, taking into account the uncertainties associated with vehicle velocity and sprung mass. Next, a robust finite frequency H ∞ output feedback controller is designed using a gain scheduling approach, formulated through a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Finally, simulation results demonstrate that the proposed velocity-dependent robust control strategy significantly reduces the root mean square (RMS) values of vertical acceleration by approximately 21% to 31% under various conditions of sprung mass and vehicle speed compared to traditional control methods.
Sustainability or instant gratification? A study on Chinese perspectives of ‘pay-as-you-use’ smart energy meters in budget hotels
Authors: Lu Lan , Ma Chang , Hall C. Michael
Published: December 2024

In response to the growing demand for sustainable practices in the hospitality industry, many hotels have concentrated on operational measures to reduce energy consumption. However, the potential for promoting voluntary customer-initiated energy-saving behaviors has been largely overlooked. This study fills that gap by investigating how environmental values (egoistic, altruistic, and biospheric) among Chinese consumers shape their attitudes, personal norms, and behavioral intentions to book budget hotels equipped with ‘pay-as-you-use’ smart energy meters (SMEMs). Unlike previous research, which primarily focuses on consumers’ willingness to pay a premium for green hotels, this study emphasizes cost-saving, pro-environmental behaviors—particularly relevant for cost-conscious travelers. The central challenge lies in understanding how financial incentives and real-time energy usage feedback can effectively drive sustainable behavior in transient hotel settings. The study also examines the moderating role of instant gratification in these relationships. This study employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS and multiple-group analysis (MGA) on data collected from 929 Chinese participants. The findings reveal that environmental values significantly influence attitudes, personal norms, and intentions to book hotels with SMEMs. Moreover, the relationship between environmental values and behavioral intentions is moderated by the level of instant gratification, underscoring the importance of immediate rewards in promoting sustainable consumer behavior. This study contributes to the literature by extending the Values-Attitude-Behavior theory and also provides practical insights for hotel managers seeking to align sustainability goals with consumers’ preferences for cost savings and instant gratification.
The politics of gatekeeping: respondents as gatekeepers and gatekeepers as respondents
Authors: Ranwa Ruchika , Thapar-Björkert Suruchi
Published: December 2024

The important role of gatekeepers in accessing and negotiating the field has been well established. In this research note, we highlight an underexplored dimension of gatekeeping in relation to our fieldwork on the Kalbeliya community of Rajasthan in India. Existing scholarship on the Kalbeliyas has mainly focused on the politics of heritage recognition of Kalbeliya dance of India, which was recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 2010. Nonetheless, no significant research exists on the methodological challenges encountered in this field. Our navigations in the field uncovered an aspect deeply embedded in arguably, the multi-layered nature of gatekeeping – the blurred boundaries and shifting positionalities between gatekeepers and respondents, with respondents acting as gatekeepers and gatekeepers as respondents. In this research, key respondents were Kalbeliya women dancers and other respondents included state officials, Manganiyars and Kalbeliya men, who acted as gatekeepers in accessing Kalbeliya dancers. These shifting positionalities also exposed their gendered power dynamics, which shaped our methodological navigations in the field.
Construing chemistry knowledge through images: a social semiotics perspective
Authors: Yu Zhigang
Published: December 2024

This article explores how chemical images in school chemistry realize knowledge from a social semiotics perspective. Drawing on Kress and Van Leeuwen’s (2021[1996]) visual grammar framework ( Reading Images: The Grammar of Visual Design) and Doran and Martin’s (2021) field model ( Field Relations: Understanding Scientific Explanation), this study reveals that these chemical images are characterized by employing recursive embeddings of analytical structures to realize multiple levels of compositional taxonomies of matter and multi-levelled taxonomy structures to expand the depth and breadth of classificational taxonomies of matter. These images employ a special narrative structure, referred to as the transformation process, to represent changes of matter. These processes can be complex in themselves or combined with agentive narrative processes to realize various activities related to changes of matter. Furthermore, chemical images utilize both symbolic and imagic resources to realize a wide range of properties associated with matter and its changes, with symbolic resources representing typological qualitative properties and images typically construing topological properties. These field meanings collectively shape part of the disciplinary affordance of chemical images in school chemistry in organizing chemistry knowledge. This study contributes to expanding the grammatical description of images to the discipline of chemistry.
Approaches to Filipino American Community Engagement in Prevention Research: A Scoping Review
Authors: Torres Jon , Tajima Emiko
Published: December 2024

The topic of this scoping review is the use of targeted engagement methods to engage Filipino Americans (FAs) in prevention research studies. FAs are the third largest Asian subgroup in the United States. Given the historical relationship between the Philippines and United States, FAs are often under-represented in research and are hard to reach due to factors such as cultural mistrust, linguistic mismatch, and unfamiliarity with research. This scoping review synthesized findings across 11 studies which met the criteria for inclusion. Studies were included if they demonstrated engagement methods with FA communities, applied participatory action research methods, cultural adaptations, and/or stakeholder consultation. Studies were excluded if engagement was not identified as a focus, did not involve stakeholders in recruitment, were simply published as extensions of earlier studies, conducted outside of the United States, or not in English. Studies reviewed represent a range of research designs, including randomized controlled trials, intervention adapted research, needs assessments, semi-structured interviews, qualitative studies, program evaluation research, and community-based participatory research. Findings identified a range of methods and strategies for engaging FA in research. Integration of cultural values, recruiting from cultural sites and use of bilingual staff and moderators were most often utilized. In addition, this review highlighted barriers to engagement and strategies to address them. Using culturally congruent engagement strategies will aid researchers in building trust and encourage participation.
Long-Term Outcomes and Late Complications of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Using the GORE TAG or Conformable GORE TAG
Authors: Tsushima Shingo , Shibata Tsuyoshi , Iba Yutaka , Sakurada Taku , Muraki Satoshi , Maeda Toshiyuki , Nakajima Tomohiro , Nakazawa Junji , Miura Shuhei , Arihara Ayaka , Nakanishi Keitaro , Mizuno Takakimi , Mukawa Kei , Kawaharada Nobuyoshi
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Previous clinical studies have reported on the short- and mid-term prognoses of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) using the GORE thoracic aortic graft (TAG) or conformable GORE TAG. We evaluated the long-term prognoses of patients who underwent TEVAR using the GORE TAG or conformable GORE TAG in a real-world setting.

Materials and methods:

This retrospective observational study analyzed the data of all consecutive patients aged 20 years or older who underwent TEVAR using either the GORE TAG or the conformable GORE TAG at a single center. The surgical criteria did not deviate from global standards. In principle, TEVAR was performed with the TAG or conformable thoracic aortic graft (CTAG) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The primary outcomes of this study were the 10-year overall survival rate and the rate of freedom from aorta-related deaths at 10 years.

Results:

Between January 2011 and December 2021, 331 patients underwent TEVAR, of whom 175 consecutive patients treated with TEVAR using either the GORE TAG or the conformable GORE TAG were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 72.1 ± 9.3 years. In addition, the aneurysm and chronic dissection were 61.7% and 38.3%, respectively. Of all patients, 157 had a proximal landing zone ≥3, and 18 had a zone <3. The mean follow-up time was 46.5 ± 33.1 months. The 30-day mortality rate was 2.86%. The 3-, 5-, 7-, and 10-year overall survival rates were 76.9 ± 3.4%, 63.4 ± 4.1%, 55.9 ± 4.9%, and 42.4 ± 8.4%, respectively. The rate of freedom from aorta-related deaths at 3, 5, 7, and 9 years was 97.4 ± 1.3%, 95.0 ± 2.1%, 95.0 ± 2.1%, and 95.0 ± 2.1%, respectively. Late complications occurred in 23 (13.1%) patients. Endovascular re-intervention was performed because of endoleak, false lumen enlargement, or stent graft-induced new entry tear in 14 patients. Three patients required open conversion, and 6 were observed without re-intervention.

Conclusions:

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair using the GORE TAG or conformable GORE TAG is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysms and aortic dissection.

Clinical Impact

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair using the GORE thoracic aortic graft (TAG) or conformable GORE TAG is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysms and aortic dissection. The 30-day mortality rate was 2.86%. During 10 years of follow-up, the overall survival rate was low; however, the risk of aorta-related deaths was also low. No significant differences in freedom from late complications and re-intervention are seen between the TAG and conformable thoracic aortic graft (CTAG) groups. Further investigations into the treatment of late complications are required.
Plasma CircCYP24A1 as a Novel Biomarker of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Ruolan , Liu Jianlin , Yang Hang , Tan Jinsong , Xiong Rong , Liu Yun , Feng Gang , Song Guiqin , Liu Kang
Published: December 2024

Background

A clinical challenge in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains the lack of applicable plasma biomarkers for screening and diagnosis. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) hold great potential as biomarkers for cancer. The study aims to explore a circRNA as a potential plasma biomarker for screening strategies and diagnostic approaches to ESCC.

Methods

Upregulated circRNAs were identified through RNA sequencing, with circCYP24A1 being identified as the target circRNA. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was employed to detect the expression of circCYP24A1 in ESCC tissue microarrays, aiming to assess the expression of circCYP24A1 in a large population and its correlation with clinical indicators. Subsequently, qRT-PCR analysis was performed on plasma samples from both ESCC patients and healthy controls to evaluate the expression levels of circCYP24A1, exploring its potential as a biomarker. Finally, the functions of circCYP24A1 were validated through CCK-8 assay, wound healing assay, trans-well assays and western blot assays.

Results

CircCYP24A1 demonstrated upregulation in both plasma and tissues, exhibiting correlations with lymph node metastasis, TNM staging, and prognosis in ESCC. The circCYP24A1 achieved a perfect area under the curve of 0.94 for the diagnosis of ESCC, and an area under the curve of 0.76 for the prediction of lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, functional loss assays revealed that circCYP24A1 effectively promotes the epithelial-mesenchymal transition and tumor metastasis in vitro.

Conclusions

CircCYP24A1 emerges as a potential plasma diagnostic biomarker and a predictive factor for LNM for ESCC.
Macrowire for Intracranial Thrombectomy: A Video Description
Authors: Kumar Arjun B. , Khan Usama , Limaye Kaustubh
Published: December 2024

Mechanical thrombectomy has become the cornerstone to achieve reperfusion in large vessel occlusion causing acute ischemic stroke. Since the advent of intracranial thrombectomy, the procedural setup has been to deliver aspiration catheter over microwire and microcatheter to the intracranial occlusion (ADAPT) or to deliver the stent-retriever through the microcatheter (SOLUMBRA) to perform thrombectomy. 1 In both these techniques the quintessential aspect is crossing the clot/thrombus, which increases the chances of clot fragmentation or disruption. 2 We demonstrate delivering an ultra-large bore (Sofia 0.088, Microvention, Aliso Viejo, CA, USA) to the intracranial occlusion over a macrowire (Aristotle Colossus OD: 0.035′ × 200 cm, Scientia Vascular, UT, USA) alone with no use of microcatheter or microwire. The utilization of macrowire to perform thrombectomy provides enough support to guide the large or ultra large bore catheter to the clot interface without the need to cross the clot. As this technique involves no crossing of clot it prevents clot disruption and distal embolization. There are other possible benefits which are under study in MINT Registry 3 and include making thrombectomy more time and cost efficient.
Design and gait research of pneumatic soft quadruped robot
Authors: Hongjun Meng , Danyu Ren
Published: December 2024

Soft robots possess flexibility and, in theory, an unlimited number of degrees of freedom. These characteristics give them superior flexibility, making them better suited for navigating complex terrain, such as steep or rugged environments, compared to rigid robots. The design of the quadruped robot is based on the deformation principles of a pneumatically driven honeycomb network, with leg deformation controlled through air pressure regulation. Furthermore, the mathematical model of the quadruped robot is developed, including both a vertical elongation model and a bending elongation model of the leg structure, established through geometric analysis. An experimental platform for the quadruped robot system is then constructed, and experimental analyses are performed to assess the elastic coefficient, hysteresis performance, elongation capacity, and bending performance of one of the robot’s legs, verifying the accuracy of the mathematical model. Based on control requirements, LabVIEW is used to design static and dynamic gait programs for the quadruped robot, ultimately enabling control of its walking motion.
Menstrual hygiene management practices among schoolgirls in resource-limited settings of Bahir Dar City administration, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Adane Yimenu , Ambelu Argaw , Azage Yenesew Muluken , Mekonnen Yalemtsehay
Published: December 2024

Background:

Schoolgirls in resource-limited settings encounter significant challenges in maintaining proper menstrual hygiene management practices. Studies on associated factors in menstrual hygiene management practices among schoolgirls in Bahir Dar City are limited.

Objectives:

The study aimed to evaluate the menstrual hygiene practices of schoolgirls and identify factors that influence these practices in the limited settings of Bahir Dar City.

Design:

This study was a school-based, analytical, cross-sectional study conducted among schoolgirls between the ages of 11 and 25.

Methods:

A total of 701 schoolgirls, selected at random based on their consent, participated in this school-based, analytical, cross-sectional study. The data collection process was comprehensive, involving a self-administered questionnaire and 5 rounds of observations at 10 schools using the Joint Monitoring Program for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene monitoring tool. The study used a binary logistics regression model to determine the strength of the association between predictor and outcome variables, ensuring a rigorous analysis with a p-value < 0.05.

Results:

In this study, 375 (53.50%) participants were found to have good menstrual hygiene practices. Factors such as the mothers’ education (diploma and above vs not read and write (AOR = 26.29, 95% CI: 11.69–59.12), fathers’ education (diploma and above vs not read and write (AOR = 19.21, 95% CI: 8.51–43.32), having access to basic water service (AOR = 14.62, 95% CI: 5.12–41.73), having access to basic sanitation services (AOR = 21.02, 95% CI: 7.87–56.15), being older among the schoolgirls (AOR = 19.69, 95% CI: 10.18–38.07), having private work (AOR = 15.58, 95% CI: 6.99–34.73), having open discussions with sisters (AOR = 27.01, 95% CI: 11.45–63.73), having friendly discussions about menstrual hygiene with schoolgirl friends (AOR = 18.67, 95% CI: 8.45–41.24), and residing in urban areas (AOR = 6.43, 95% CI: 3.52–11.73)) were significantly associated with good menstrual hygiene practices.

Conclusion:

The schoolgirls in the study area had good menstrual hygiene practices. However, uneducated parents, inadequate facilities, limited access to absorbent materials, and lack of support were challenges that affected proper menstrual hygiene management practice. To improve menstrual hygiene practices, it is crucial to address these identified modifiable factors and consider education programs, better facilities, community support, and policy changes that prioritize menstrual hygiene management in schools for schoolgirls to manage menstruation.
The representative design of combat shooting methodologies from an ecological dynamics perspective: A scoping review
Authors: Bale Jack , Perrett Corey , Davids Keith , Wheat Jonathan , Coleman Jemma , Panchuk Derek , Middleton Kane
Published: December 2024

Combative military environments are ambiguous, uncertain, and dynamic, which certain tactical populations (military and law enforcement) must operate, whilst maintaining survivability by being mobile, situationally aware, and lethal. Training and performance evaluation, using the ecological dynamics framework, and constraints-led approach, can facilitate these operational requirements. This scoping review sought to investigate the representative design of combat shooting methodologies in the current body of literature. The search was conducted on SCOPUS, Military (ProQuest), Medline, and PubMed databases, providing 4450 articles for screening. Peer-reviewed articles (n = 105) were included for review, with populations including military, law enforcement, and cadets. The review concludes that methodological designs of combat shooting literature typically do not represent constraints of combat shooting contexts, rather implementing static designs, single-target engagements, pre-planned protocols, lack of friend-or-foe discrimination tasks, and limited use of temporal constraints. The validity of conclusions drawn in the combat shooting literature may be questioned for lacking action fidelity. Future studies could enhance skill transfer by including dynamic and multi-target engagements, unplanned protocols, friend-or-foe discrimination, and temporal constraints within training and assessment designs.
Early player transition in elite youth and first team soccer: The predictive role of sprint distance and high-intensity acceleration and deceleration attributes
Authors: McGuigan Mark , Dello Iacono Antonio , McRobert Allistair , Cowan Daryl , Unnithan Viswanath B
Published: December 2024

Physical performance is an important determinant of elite youth soccer player development and can influence successful transition through the professional phase of the talent development pathway. In response to previous research highlighting key stakeholders’ perceptions that successful transitions within the club pathway are influenced by sprinting capacity and explosive power; this study objectively quantified the predictive value of sprint distance and high intensity acceleration and deceleration efforts on the early transition of elite, professional youth soccer players from U18 to U21, and U21 to first team squads of a Scottish Premier League club. Early transition was defined as a player progressing to the next age group (i.e., U18 to U21) prior to reaching the chronological age limits of his current squad. Retrospective physical performance data of thirty-seven players from training and competitive matches across two seasons were analysed. Results suggest that early transition is less likely for players progressing from the U21 to the first team relative to players progressing from U18 to U21. Relative sprint distance resulted in a 52% probability of early transition (OR = 0.52) with relative aggregated high intensity acceleration and deceleration efforts reflecting an increased probability of early transition (OR = 1.70) for elite youth soccer players within the club. This novel study provides a unique insight to the complexities and context-specific nature of youth soccer player development and transition. This paper challenges the subjective perceptions of key stakeholders using objective physical data of youth players who have transitioned to advanced squads.
Early infarct growth rate is associated with symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage after endovascular thrombectomy
Authors: Wang Wei , Huang Zhihang , Chen Shuaiyu , E Yan , Qi Jingwen , Xie Yi , Su Mouxiao , Zhang Yingdong , Jiang Teng , Zhang Xiaohao
Published: December 2024

Background:

Time elapsed from stroke onset and baseline infarct volume is influential on endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) outcomes.

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore the utility of early infarct growth rate (EIGR) measured by apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in predicting symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) of ischemic stroke patients after EVT.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed patients from the prospectively maintained stroke registry admitted between January 2019 and March 2023, presenting with large vessel occlusive stroke in the anterior circulation. EIGR was defined as ischemic core volume on magnetic resonance perfusion imaging (ADC ⩽620 × 10−6 mm2/s) divided by the time from stroke onset to imaging. sICH was diagnosed according to the Heidelberg Bleeding Classification within 72 h after the procedure.

Results:

A total of 315 patients met the inclusion criteria. We observed sICH in 36 (11.4%) patients. After adjusting for the potential confounders, increased EIGR was confirmed to be independently associated with a higher risk of sICH (adjusted odds ratio, 1.033; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.018–1.048; p = 0.001). Similar results were also confirmed when EIGR was analyzed as a categorical variable. Using a logistic regression model with restricted cubic splines, we found a linear correlation between EIGR and sICH risk ( p = 0.001 for linearity). Furthermore, adding EIGR to a model containing conventional risk factors significantly improved risk reclassification for sICH (category-free net reclassification index, 0.393; 95% CI, 0.227–0.560; p = 0.001; integrated discrimination improvement, 0.245; 95% CI, 0.146–0.343; p = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Increased EIGR may predict the sICH in ischemic stroke patients who receiving EVT.
Optimizing Polyphenolic Extraction from Wild Guava Leaves: A Response Surface Methodology Approach to Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities
Authors: Thi Ngoc-Dung Dang , Nguyen Minh-Trung , Bui Thi Bich-Huyen , Mai Quoc-Quan , Nguyen Phuoc-Vinh , Nguyen Quang-Vinh
Published: December 2024

Objective

Elevated concentrations of total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) in extracts from wild Psidium guajava L. leaves are associated with their antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities. This study aimed to determine the optimal ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions to maximize TPC, TFC yield, as well as antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory potential.

Methods

The central composite design (CCD) of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed for empirical model development with three levels of factors, including ethanol concentration (33.18 to 66.82% in distilled water), extraction time (1.59 to 18.41 min) and solvent-to-solid ratio (5.79 to 14.20 mL/g).

Results

The results indicated that under optimal conditions, the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) values were 152.954 mg GAE/g DW and 113.871 mg QE/g DW, respectively. These conditions included an ethanol concentration of 51.94%, an extraction time of 9.56 min, and a solvent-to-solid ratio (v/w) of 10.84 mL/g. Furthermore, the maximum values for DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities were 124.990 mg TE/g DW and 194.730 mg TE/g DW, respectively and the lowest IC50 for α-glucosidase inhibitory activity recorded at 11.946 µg/mL. The validated models exhibited strong consistency between the predicted and experimental values, with variations of less than 5% under optimal conditions. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) also confirmed the appropriate model to predict the extraction yield of total polyphenol and flavonoid content, as well as their biological activities, including DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities.

Conclusions

The enhancement of antioxidant and antidiabetic extraction processes in both the pharmaceutical and food industries through the use of ultrasound-assisted extraction from Wild Guava leaves can increase production to meet high demand. This efficiency is particularly noteworthy, as it demonstrates the advantages of using ultrasound in the extraction process.
The Leaf Essential Oils of Syzygium oblatum and Syzygium abortivum: Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial Activity, and Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Dai Do Ngoc , Huong Le Thi , Quynh Pham Thi Nhu , Le Quyen Nguyen Thi , Linh Nguyen Ngoc , Nhung Phi Thi Tuyet , Xuan Ha Nguyen , Son Ninh The
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Syzygium (the family Myrtaceae) is a well-known genus in the field of food chemistry and medicinal purposes. The current study aims to provide a chemical analysis of essential oils from the fresh leaves of two Vietnamese Syzygium species Syzygium oblatum (Roxb.) Wall. ex Steudel and S. abortivum (Gagnep.) Merr. & L.M.Perry.

Methods

Chemical compounds in essential oils were identified using GC-FID/MS (gas chromatography-flame ionization detection/mass spectrometry) analysis. The broth microdilution method was used for the antimicrobial assay. Docking stimulation aided experimental results.

Results

( E)-Caryophyllene (27.89%), α-selinene (18.34%), β-selinene (17.48%), and α-pinene (5.20%) were identified to be the main compounds in S. oblatum leaf essential oil, whereas the leaf essential oil of S. abortivum was dominated by ( E)-caryophyllene (19.56%), δ-cadinene (11.03%), germacrene D (10.34%), and γ-muurolene (5.50%). It noted that both studied oil samples with the MIC/IC50 values of 8-32 µg/mL/4.56-10.37 µg/mL were comparable to the standard drugs in antimicrobial experiments against the Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus cereus and Enterococcus faecalis, and yeast Candida albicans. Molecular docking results showed that the main compound ( E)-caryophyllene primarily formed hydrophobic interactions with the microbial proteins C. albicans N-myristoyl transferase B. cereus patB1, and E. faecalis carbamate kinase with the binding affinities of −6.969, −6.342, and −5.530 kcal/mol, respectively

Conclusion

It is advised to isolate the main chemicals and conduct in vivo antibacterial experiments for both essential oils and their main compounds.