bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the VBN theory to understand residents’ participation in the smart city: The case of French metropolises
Authors: Lebrument Norbert , Zumbo-Lebrument Cédrine , Rochette Corinne
Published: September 2024

Cities, where 60% of the world’s population lives, are particularly vulnerable to global warming. The environmental aspect is therefore an important dimension of sustainable smart cities, as is citizen participation. Based on the Value–Belief–Norm (VBN) theory, we explore the idea that citizen participation in the smart city is largely conditioned by the environmental consequences and responsibilities they attribute to their behaviour. A survey was conducted among 1670 residents of six major French cities involved in a smart city approach. Based on a model test using the PLS-PM approach, the results, confirm the validity of VBN theory in the French smart city context. More specifically, pro-environmental personal norms positively influence residents’ intention to participate in the smart city. Biospheric and altruistic values promote an ecological vision of the world, which strengthens awareness of environmental consequences and a sense of responsibility, which in turn activates pro-environmental personal norms. In this way, we demonstrate the relevance of mobilising the VBN theory to understand citizen participation in the smart city. Citizen participation in the smart city is ultimately a pro-environmental behaviour in itself. We make suggestions on how to develop citizen participation by strengthening environmental awareness and responsibility.
Long-Term Care Residents’ Perceptions of Integrated Care From Physio-Psycho-Social Perspectives: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Yuan Shuqi , Yang Xiaoman , Li Bowen , Hu Qianqian , Hu Yan
Published: September 2024

In response to the aging population, an integrated care policy has been put forward and implemented in China. The key aspect of this policy is the reform of services within long-term care facilities, representing a significant shift and innovation. This study aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of integrated care among older residents living in long-term care facilities. A descriptive qualitative design was applied in our study. Utilizing a purposive sampling method, 18 older adults from 5 long-term care institutions in Shanghai, China were selected. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews from October 2022 to April 2023, continuing until data saturation was reached. Directed content analysis was applied to analyze the interview data, guided by the Fundamentals of Care (FoC) Framework. Five themes and 11 subthemes were identified, including (1) Policy level: positive attitude and negative feelings. (2) Physiological level: satisfied basic daily life, primary medical services accessibility and chronic care management enhancement needed. (3) Psychological level: need for psychological support and need for self-perception recognition. (4) Relationship level: enhancement of humanistic care and need for a family atmosphere. (5) Social level: interpersonal communication constrained by the times and inadequate social engagement. Strengthening the awareness and participation of older people in the integrated care policy, and fully meeting the diverse needs including advanced medical care, chronic disease management, personalized life care, psychological support, humanistic care and social engagement will contribute to the improvement of the policy, so as to better adapt the demographic shift.
Are the Nation’s Fourth Graders Failing at Reading?
Authors: Cervetti Gina N. , Hinchman Kathleen A.
Published: September 2024

Each biannual release of fourth-grade scores on the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) in reading brings a new round of claims that a large majority of U.S. students are performing below grade-level expectations—a national reading crisis. In this commentary, we interrogate these claims, concluding that they represent a misreading of the data. In addition, we discuss how NAEP scores should, instead, inform conversations about achievement and equity.
Eosinophilic ascites and enteritis: a neglected case report from Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Tien Manh , Vu Nhu Thi Hanh , Vo Tran Thi Luong , Pham Duy Le , Ho Phat Tan , Quach Duc Trong
Published: September 2024

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis poses a significant diagnostic challenge, particularly in developing countries, where the awareness of this condition may be limited. Here, the case of a patient in her early 30s, who presented with recurrent episodes of abdominal pain and diarrhea, is reported. Initial standard laboratory investigations revealed normal complete blood counts and elevated total serum immunoglobulin E levels. Upper and lower endoscopic evaluations with systemic biopsies did not reveal any significant abnormalities. However, computed tomography revealed a thickened small intestine wall, halo signs, and mild ascites. Analysis of the ascitic fluid confirmed eosinophilia. These findings prompted a diagnosis of eosinophilic gastroenteritis. The patient responded well to a targeted elimination diet, corticosteroids, and antileukotriene medication. The present case emphasizes the importance of considering eosinophilic gastroenteritis in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with abdominal pain and eosinophilic ascites.
Mindset and participation: Correlations among healthy children
Authors: Rosenberg Limor
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Mindsets are ability-related beliefs concerning the malleability of human traits such as intelligence or personality. Mindsets span a continuum between fixed and growth mindsets; they shape engagement and behavior and contribute to performance and achievements. However, children’s mindsets regarding participation in daily activities have yet to be studied. The study objectives were to explore the domain-specificity of children’s mindsets and the correlations between mindsets and participation.

Methods:

Sixty-six children (36 boys) aged 6–9 years ( m = 7.39 ± 0.85) completed the Kids’ Mindset Questionnaire assessing mindset regarding behavior, praxis, and literacy. Their parents completed the Children Participation Questionnaire-School.

Results:

Children were found to endorse growth mindsets. However, the behavior mindset score was the lowest compared to praxis and literacy mindsets ( X2 = 8.72, p = 0.013). Behavior and literacy mindsets were not correlated with participation; however, the praxis mindset was positively correlated with children’s independence and enjoyment in participation ( r = 0.29, r = 0.249, p < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions:

Children tend to endorse growth mindsets; however, mindsets are domain-specific; the behavior mindset is the least malleable. Children’s beliefs regarding the malleability of praxis skills are of value for their involvement in participation. For occupational therapy practitioners, fostering children’s growth mindset can be a complementary way to promote optimal participation.
Exploration of collaborative goal setting in occupational therapy for adults with aphasia
Authors: Escher Anne , Gandhi Arti , Berger Sue
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Aphasia, an acquired communication disorder, often results in restrictions to participation in daily activities leading to a decline in social networks, reduced quality of life, and decreased emotional well-being. Collaborative goal setting in rehabilitation settings is an important aspect of client-centered therapy for all clients; however, it is often ignored for people with aphasia due to lack of time, limited training in communication strategies, and a negative approach toward communicating with the person with aphasia.

Method:

This study used qualitative descriptive methodology to explore the experience of adults with aphasia with collaborative goal setting. Through interviews and observation, authors sought to gain an understanding of the facilitators and barriers to collaborative goal setting for people with aphasia. Participants were four adults with poststroke aphasia recruited from a university Aphasia Resource Center.

Findings:

Findings demonstrate that the environment and a client-centered approach support goal setting while too many adaptations and limited comprehension limit goal setting.

Conclusion:

The authors conclude that occupational therapy practitioners should support collaborative goal setting for people with aphasia through use of aphasia-friendly goal-setting processes, including adaptations to existing goal-setting measures as appropriate.
Dynamic VAD simulations: Performing accurate simulations of ventricular assist devices in interaction with the cardiovascular system
Authors: Crone Vincenz , Hahne Mario , Knüppel Finn , Wurm Frank-Hendrik , Torner Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Medical advancements, particularly in ventricular assist devices (VADs), have notably advanced heart failure (HF) treatment, improving patient outcomes. However, challenges such as adverse events (strokes, bleeding and thrombosis) persist. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are instrumental in understanding VAD flow dynamics and the associated flow-induced adverse events resulting from non-physiological flow conditions in the VAD.

This study aims to validate critical CFD simulation parameters for accurate VAD simulations interacting with the cardiovascular system, building upon the groundwork laid by Hahne et al. A bidirectional coupling technique was used to model dynamic (pulsatile) flow conditions of the VAD CFD interacting with the cardiovascular system. Mesh size, time steps and simulation method (URANS, LES) were systematically varied to evaluate their impact on the dynamic pump performance (dynamic [Formula: see text] curve) of the HeartMate 3, aiming to find the optimal simulation configuration for accurately reproduce the dynamic [Formula: see text] curve. The new Overlapping Ratio (OR) method was developed and applied to quantify dynamic [Formula: see text] curves.

In particular, mesh and time step sizes were found to have the greatest influence on the calculated pump performance. Therefore, small time steps and large mesh sizes are recommended to obtain accurate dynamic [Formula: see text] curves. On the other hand, the influence of the simulation method was not significant in this study. This study contributes to advancing VAD simulations, ultimately enhancing clinical efficacy and patient outcomes.
Physical Activity and Neurocognitive Symptoms in Older Adults During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ortiz-Acosta Perla K. , Martínez Jairo E. , Vila-Castelar Clara , Fox-Fuller Joshua T. , Pluim Celina , Babulal Ganesh M. , Ramírez-Gómez Liliana , Munera Diana , Quiroz Yakeel T. , Guzmán-Vélez Edmarie
Published: September 2024

Objectives: Examine whether physical activity (PA) changes during the COVID-19 pandemic were related to subjective cognitive decline (SCD), depression, and anxiety in older adults and whether these varied by sociodemographic variables. Methods: 301 older adults completed an online survey between May and October 2020 and 3 months later, including self-report questionnaires of SCD, depression, and anxiety. PA changes were determined with a question. Results: 60% of participants reported decreased PA. Those who reduced their PA were more likely to be from low to middle income and younger. PA increase was related to less SCD and depressive symptoms compared to those who decreased it. Participants who maintained their PA had fewer SCD concerns, depressive, and anxiety symptoms than those who decreased it. Discussion: Reducing PA was associated with worse neuropsychiatric and cognitive symptoms. Encouraging older adults to increase PA may help mitigate some of the pandemic’s adverse effects on psychological well-being.
An experimental case study of escooter fire in a four-story building
Authors: Liu XY , Ma MX , Wei ZL , Zhen HS , Wang YL
Published: September 2024

Driven by the necessity to understand the fire and smoke dispersion characteristics of electric bicycle (escooter) fires and their effects on residents’ safety in rural houses, this study was conducted to perform full-scale fire experiments in a village house in Hainan, People’s Republic of China. The tested building is a typical multi-story building representative of rural houses in southern China. It is found that an escooter fire grows rapidly once its lithium-ion battery is overcharged to ignite. Inside the stairwell where the escooters are parked, a significant increase in temperature over 60°C across all floors is observed and the maximum temperature reaches up to 800°C on the first floor. Furthermore, the propagation of smoke is fast, reaching the upper floors within 5 minutes and filling the entire building within 7 minutes. Due to stack effect, carbon monoxide concentration is the highest on the fourth floor, notably higher than the other floors. Closing the doors of rooms where occupants are typically present is found to effectively block heat and smoke transfer. Thus, in case an escooter’s lithium-ion battery undergoes explosion combustion, it is better that residents stay in rooms by closing or even sealing the doors, waiting for help during most of the fire period. However, in case the lithium-ion battery has not been burning, there still are chances for evacuation or putting out the flame.
Who Drives Neighborhood Income Growth? An Analysis of New Versus Long-Term Residents in the Northern California Megaregion
Authors: Comandon Andre , Rodnyansky Seva , G. Boarnet Marlon
Published: September 2024

Increases in neighborhood income are often attributed to the in-migration of higher income people. We use individual tax records from 1994 to 2015 to show a more nuanced finding. New residents generally have lower incomes than existing residents when they first move into a zip code. However, in-movers have steeper income growth and catch up with original residents within ten years. This pattern is mediated by turnover and generally short tenures for younger people, highlighting the importance of selective migration in combination with incumbents’ income growth in differentiating high- and low-growth zip codes.
Job mobility, reallocation and wage growth: A tale of two countries
Authors: Hijzen Alexander , Lillehagen Mats , Zwysen Wouter
Published: September 2024

Job reallocation is a key driver of aggregate wage growth, but its role in different economic systems remains understudied. This paper takes a comparative view and analyses the role of job mobility in job reallocation and aggregate wage growth in Norway, comparing it to published results for the United States. The results show first that, as expected, overall job mobility is much lower in Norway compared to the United States, likely reflecting the compressed wage distribution. However, the speed of job reallocation from low-wage to high-wage firms is similar to or even higher than in the United States. Second, in both Norway and the United States, the process of job reallocation is strongly pro-cyclical. This is entirely driven by the pro-cyclical nature of net job-to-job mobility from low- to high-wage firms. Third, for Norway, the bulk of aggregate wage growth reflects on-the job wage growth, while its cyclicality is largely driven by net job-to-job mobility from low to high-wage firms. This paper shows that reallocation is not necessarily less efficient in more egalitarian societies with lower mobility and different wage structures.
A Study on How  Consumer-generated Advertising Influences the Purchase Intention of Online Consumers in C2C  Marketplace
Authors: Roy Bidisha , Mazumdar Sitanath , Guha Banhi
Published: September 2024

Consumer-generated advertising (CGA) campaigns have become a pivotal online marketing tool in light of the substantial increase in smartphone usage. As a result, there is a rising recognition of the importance of studying purchase intention (PI) within the realm of online CGA on consumer-to-consumer (C2C) platforms. The present study investigates the factors that influence individuals’ intention to make purchases on C2C platforms as a result of CGA.

The conceptual model was developed using the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and quantitative data. Based on survey data, the model has been analyzed and tested using the structural equation modelling technique for each construct. According to this investigation, the ‘attitude’ of online shoppers is the main factor influencing ‘PI’ or ‘behavioural intention’ as a result of online CGA on a C2C marketplace. The two most important aspects of products and services that affect attitude are their ‘perceived usefulness’ and ‘perceived ease of use’. According to the study, online marketers should place greater emphasis on a product’s or service’s utility in order to improve online shoppers’ attitudes, which will then result in increased PI. The model, developed in conjunction with the primary study findings, will aid in the development of CGA strategies for C2C market in order to increase purchase intent.
An enhanced direct method for ductile damage measurement
Authors: Dastjerdi M , Haji Aboutalebi F , Sadeghi Nezhad MS
Published: September 2024

Damage measurement of materials is a crucial challenge for researchers and engineers in manufacturing industries. In this study, based on the image processing technique, a developed approach for determining the Lemaitre’s ductile damage parameter by the direct measurement method is proposed. For this purpose, first, the micrographs pictures are provided by a scanning electron microscope to attain the damage evolution behavior of St37 steel. Then, prediction results of the suggested method and the Lemaitre’s direct approach as well as the microhardness technique and also a lately published numerical method in damage propagation, crack initiation, and ductile fracture of a few tensile samples are compared with the corresponding experimental tests. The comparison reveals the higher efficiency and accuracy of the current approach. Therefore, it is concluded that the new presented method is a reliable approach to achieve the Lemaitre’s ductile damage parameter and predict the damage evolution behavior of ductile materials.
Pressing Update: Aprocitentan for the Treatment of Hypertension
Authors: Phillips Bradley , Vascimini Angelina , Whitner Chardae , St. Onge Erin , Huston Jessica
Published: September 2024

Objective:

This article reviews the published data including the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of aprocitentan, a novel endothelin receptor antagonist developed to treat hypertension in conjunction with additional agents.

Data sources:

A literature search was conducted from drug discovery until May 2024 through PubMed, MEDLINE, and National Institutes of Health Clinical Trials Registry utilizing the following search terms: Tryvio, aprocitentan, hypertension, resistant hypertension, endothelin receptor antagonist, and ACT-132577.

Study selection and data extraction:

All relevant English-language studies, or studies that could be appropriately translated into English, containing the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy of aprocitentan, were selected for review.

Data synthesis:

In the setting of resistant hypertension, aprocitentan has shown significant reductions in blood pressure in both medical office and 24-hour ambulatory settings at 4 weeks with a sustained effect at 40 weeks. Studies evaluating cardiovascular risk reduction have not been conducted at this time. Fluid retention and edema were the most frequent adverse events reported in clinical studies with aprocitentan. As a class, endothelin receptor antagonists may cause fetal harm; aprocitentan should be used with caution to avoid embryo-fetal toxicity.

Relevance to patient care and clinical practice in comparison to existing drugs:

Owing to the existent barriers for the treatment of resistant hypertension, aprocitentan presents itself as an effective option when added to traditional antihypertensives. This single-strength, once-daily regimen may serve as an appealing option to both patients and prescribers.

Conclusion:

Aprocitentan is a safe and effective medication for the treatment of hypertension when added to other pharmacological therapies.
The Impact of Eccentricity within Visual Vigilance Displays
Authors: Azubike Chidera O. , Greenlee Eric T. , Maw Emily L.
Published: September 2024

The Functional Field of View (FFOV) plays a crucial role in processing task-relevant visual information, especially in activities like driving and operational domains such as aviation and surveillance. Many tasks requiring a wide FFOV also demand sustained attention over prolonged periods. However, performance in vigilance tasks often declines over time (i.e., vigilance decrement). Understanding the interaction between FFOV and vigilance is vital to optimize performance and reduce risks in such settings. Previous studies suggested that attentional availability limits FFOV, as such introducing attention-demanding tasks like vigilance were expected to decrease FFOV over time. Results revealed that response times for the most centrally located stimuli, while faster than more peripheral regions, selectively worsened over time. These results may suggest a strategic trade-off in attention allocation; in order to compensate for reduced availability of attentional resources, relatively difficult, peripheral locations may have been prioritized.
Response prediction and optimization of a rotor with variable stiffness supports based on pseudo-steady approximation
Authors: Jin Fuyi , Zang Chaoping , Xing Guangpeng , Ma Yuxiang , Yuan Shanhu , Jia Zhigang
Published: September 2024

The flexible rotor of an aero-engine must pass through several critical speeds within its working speed range, but its reliability can be compromised by intense vibration caused by the resonance at these critical speeds. A novel method for reducing multiple resonant peaks of a flexible rotor is explored based on multiple supports of variable stiffness in this paper. Firstly, to determine the optimal stiffness change path of these supports, a pseudo-steady approximation method (PSAM) considering the influence of support stiffness change rate is proposed for predicting time-domain responses based on frequency-domain calculations. This approach has a definite advantage in time-domain solutions as it is less time-consuming. Then, to verify the effectiveness of the PSAM, time-domain simulations are conducted, which yielded highly consistent results with the PSAM calculation results with the Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) up to 93.7%. Finally, with the assistance of the PSAM, the Dijkstra algorithm was used to identify the most efficient path of variable stiffness for controlling multiple resonant peaks of a flexible rotor. A rotor test was carried out utilizing variable stiffness supports which are made of shape memory alloy (SMA) springs. The efficiency of the optimal variable stiffness path acquired through PSAM was verified through testing, which demonstrated that displacement can be reduced by up to 70.8%.
A multi-source unsupervised fault diagnosis network with residual enhancement attention module for rotating machinery cross-operating conditions
Authors: Duan Hangbo , Cai Zongyan , Liu Qingtao , Zhao Ke , Zhang Dan
Published: September 2024

Domain adaptation methods based on average statistical metrics or single-source domains may encounter performance deficiencies of rotating machinery fault diagnosis. To this end, this paper proposes a multi-source domain adaptive network with the residual enhancement attention module (MDAN-REAM). Firstly, extracting feature information was performed for each combination of source and target domains by common feature extractor with the REAM. Secondly, domain-specific features were extracted by a domain adaptation method based on mean square statistics discrepancy (MSSD). Finally, fault diagnosis on the target domain was performed using all source domain classifiers. And the multi-classifier metric was applied to align the prediction discrepancies among all classifiers to improving fault diagnosis accuracy. Two experimental cases were designed to evaluate the proposed method. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits superior performance compared to many popular methods.
Mental Health Needs of Inpatient Psychiatric Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gresham Angel D. , Paun Olimpia , Heyland Michelle
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

The lack of mental health supports and resources for psychiatric nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to stress, burnout, and reduced mental wellness. Simultaneously, the pandemic’s safety mitigation measures made significant changes to the inpatient psychiatric population environment making it difficult to maintain a therapeutic milieu and increased mental health challenges among staff and patients.

Aims:

This study aimed to identify external and internal resilience factors, mental health support, and resources provided by organizations, and additional mental health support and resources inpatient psychiatric nurses felt would have been beneficial during the pandemic.

Methods:

An anonymous web-based survey was administered via American Psychiatric Nurses Association Member Bridge. Notably, 68 respondents represented 23 states across the United States.

Results:

Interpersonal peer relationships, self-awareness, self-care, mindfulness, and purpose were identified resilience factors. Free counseling, decompression rooms, pastoral support, self-care discounts, and support groups were top support and resource options. Policies, time-off, personal protective equipment (PPE) availability, counseling and self-care, and appreciation were major themes reflecting what participants thought would have been beneficial. Coping strategies, organizational support, resilience, altruism, and family and peer support were instrumental in psychiatric nurses’ survival during the pandemic.

Conclusion:

Identifying factors of resilience is key to supporting and protecting the mental health of psychiatric nurses. Organizations can better support their nurses when they understand what mental health support and resource options are perceived as most beneficial by inpatient nurses.
Domestic ‘Disposal Work’ and Plastics Recycling – Unwrapping Everyday Entanglements of Practice, Roles, and Responsibilities
Authors: Holmes Torik , Holmes Helen
Published: September 2024

This article is about household plastics recycling in England. Rates of recycling have stagnated across the country over the past decade. Fitting with an individualisation of responsibility across industry and policy, households commonly get the blame. We bring this framing into question through a conceptualisation and exploration of the ‘disposal work’ undertaken by households. This concerns the bundle of practices involved in the identification, preparation, and segregation of everyday discards. Drawing on in-depth qualitative research, involving a purposefully disruptive trial and 60 interviews, we consider what affects disposal work, unwrapping a series of everyday sociomaterial entanglements of practice and the constitutive roles played by bins, packaging, and lay normativities. We argue that the blame attributed to households for poor-quality recycling reflects a blinkered problem framing and an oversimplification of responsibilities. Our argument is premised on tracing out and revealing a set of relationships between practices and domains of work that intersect in and extend out beyond homes and help shape the ebb and flow of plastic recyclables. Several pragmatic responses aimed at improving matters are discussed. We also signpost this article’s broader significance for sociological research on practices and sustainability, arguing that privileging work, over consumption, provides one means of attuning and attending to power dynamics and the politics of the everyday.
Emergency surgery influences oncological outcome in small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Butz Frederike , Supper Leonie , Reinhard Lisa , Dukaczewska Agata , Jann Henning , Fehrenbach Uli , Müller-Debus Charlotte Friederike , Skachko Tatiana , Pratschke Johann , Goretzki Peter E. , Mogl Martina T. , Dobrindt Eva M.
Published: September 2024

Background and aims:

Patients with small intestinal neuroendocrine tumors (siNETs) frequently present emergently due to bowel ischemia or bowel obstruction. The influence of emergency surgery on the prognosis of siNET remains controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between type of presentation (emergency/elective) and oncological outcome.

Methods:

Clinicopathological data of patients who underwent bowel resection and were treated due to siNET at the Charité — Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany were analyzed retrospectively.

Results:

A total of 165 patients underwent bowel resection for siNET. Of these, 22.4% (n = 37) were emergency and 77.6% (n = 128) were elective procedures. A preoperative known diagnosis was less common in patients with emergency surgery (48.6% vs 85.2%; p < 0.001) and complete resections of all tumor manifestations were performed less often (32.4% vs 50.8%; p = 0.049), while more completion operations had to be performed (24.3% vs 11.1%; p = 0.049). Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of emergently operated patients were reduced (5-year OS: 85.2% vs 89.5% ( p = 0.023); 5-year PFS: 26.7% versus 52.5% ( p = 0.018)). In addition, emergency surgery was negatively associated with OS after multivariable regression analysis.

Conclusion:

Emergency surgery in siNET patients is associated with adverse oncological outcomes including shorter OS and PFS. Prevention of emergency conditions should be emphasized in advanced disease.
‘Neyse Halim Çıksın Falim’: Turkish women’s intimate discourse in fortune-telling sessions through coffee cup readings
Authors: Eröz Betil , Efeoğlu-Özcan Esranur , Başaran Uysal Banu Çiçek
Published: September 2024

Turkish coffee is not only a popular beverage consumed daily in Türkiye, but also a medium that enhances social connections among women within the same communities of practice. In this study, we examine coffee cup fortune-telling as a discourse type and analyse the sociocultural and linguistic characteristics of this intimate and interactional data among 25 Turkish-speaking women who are close friends. The data consists of 22 informal, naturally-occurring and face-to-face coffee cup reading sessions which correspond to 2 hours 40 minutes of audio recordings. Our analyses reveal that Turkish women use culture-specific semiotic and linguistic resources as tools of reflection and persuasion in this jointly constructed discourse. We also argue that coffee cup readings provide opportunities for establishing solidarity through engaging the speakers in troubles talk.
Exploring perceptions and expectations of COPD patients: A grounded theory approach for personalized therapeutic interventions
Authors: Poletti Valentina , Bresciani Gaia , Banfi Paolo , Volpato Eleonora
Published: September 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the dynamic patterns of perception and expectations among COPD patients. Methods: Conducted at the Heart-Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, in Milan, Italy, the research involved 28 participants (16 males; mean age 72.8 ± 9.9) in face-to-face interviews. Utilizing a Grounded Theory approach, complemented by clinical data, recorded, and transcribed interviews underwent enhancement through the integration of two pictorial tools. Results: The central theme that emerged was a profound sense of responsibility toward their condition, perceived as a significant threat to life. Key symptoms, such as shortness of breath, coupled with negative expectations about their condition, contributed to depressive mood and avoidance behaviors. A notable proportion ( N = 17; 60.71%) of participants struggled to envision a positive future, expressing a pervasive sense of hopelessness, which significantly influenced their health behaviors and adherence to medical recommendations. Conversely, individuals who felt supported and optimistic about treatment efficacy exhibited more positive expectations and adopted proactive coping strategies. Discussion: Recognizing the dynamic nature of patients' perceptions and negative illness expectations is essential to create personalized therapeutic interventions and meet the specific needs of COPD patients, ultimately improving the overall effectiveness of their care journey.
iCover as Bridging Stent Graft in Fenestrated Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Menges Anna-Leonie , Landré Vincent , Meuli Lorenz , Zimmermann Alexander , Reutersberg Benedikt
Published: September 2024

Background:

Complex endovascular repair with fenestrated or branched stent grafts is a common approach for treating various types of aortic aneurysms. Bridging stent grafts (BSs) are crucial in connecting aortic endoprosthesis to target vessels, yet current options have demonstrated significant complications.

Objective:

This retrospective single-center study evaluates the initial outcomes and durability of the iCover stent graft (iCover-SG) when used as a BS in fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair (FEVAR).

Methods:

Retrospective analysis screened procedures for complex aortic aneurysms between August 2021 and January 2024. Patients who underwent FEVAR with iCover-SG as BS were included. Primary and secondary endpoints focused on freedom from iCover-SG-related target vessel instability, technical success, and postoperative outcomes.

Results:

Within the cohort of 28 patients, 94 iCover-SGs were used as BS, supplying 87 target vessels. The freedom from iCover-SG-related target vessel instability throughout the study reached 94% (82/87). Technical success rates were notably high, with primary success achieved in 94% of cases and secondary success in 99%. Over the follow-up duration, there were instances necessitating reintervention related to iCover-SG, including 4 cases of endoleak, 2 cases of T1cEL, and 2 cases of T3cEL. In-hospital mortality was 7% (n=4), with 2 cases attributed to intraoperative complications. Importantly, no deaths were directly attributed to iCover-SG-related issues.

Conclusion:

The iCover-SG demonstrates promising initial outcomes as a BS in FEVAR, with high technical success rates and satisfactory rates of target vessel instability. Continued monitoring and further studies are warranted to assess long-term durability and outcomes.

Clinical Impact

This study shows that the iCover stent graft achieves satisfactory technical success and target vessel stability in the short- and mid-term when used as a bridging stent graft in FEVAR procedures. Its successful integration into clinical practice broadens the range of available options, providing clinicians with more versatile tools for managing complex endovascular aortic aneurysms. This expanded selection of bridging stent grafts allows for more personalised treatment strategies, improving procedural precision and patient outcomes. The iCover stent graft’s reliable performance highlights its potential as a valuable addition to current endovascular techniques, ultimately enhancing patient care in challenging cases.
Retrospective Analysis: Preserving More Subcutaneous Tissue Shows no Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence
Authors: Li Wenting , Liang Yinghui
Published: September 2024

Background

Radical mastectomy remains the cornerstone procedure for the treatment of breast cancer (BC). However, traditional radical surgeries often lead to complications such as local numbness, pulling sensations, and atrophy of the pectoralis major muscle. In contrast, BC radical surgeries that preserve more tissue have shown potential in reducing these complications. This retrospective study aims to analyze case data from our institution, focusing on the methods of surgeries that preserve more tissue and evaluating the safety and reliability of the follow-up results.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted on cases diagnosed with BC between May 2018 and July 2019 at our institution. The cases were divided into three different surgical groups and followed up for a period of 5 years. The follow-up results were then discussed within each group.

Results

A total of 315 cases diagnosed with BC underwent regular follow-ups. The statistical analysis revealed an average age of 45 years and an average tumor size slightly over 2.2 cm, with early-stage BC (Stage I and II) accounting for 90.2% of the cases. The overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival times in the group undergoing total mastectomy with tissue preservation were comparable to those in the traditional radical mastectomy group and the breast-conserving plus radiotherapy group. Moreover, the complication rate, particularly the incidence of chest wall numbness and pulling sensations, was lower in the total mastectomy with tissue preservation group compared to the traditional radical mastectomy group. The overall average follow-up time was 64.4 months, with a recurrence and metastasis rate of 15.6% and an OS rate of 92.7%.

Conclusion

Based on our follow-up results, total mastectomy with more tissue preservation demonstrates comparable efficacy to breast-conserving surgery and traditional radical mastectomy. It can reduce some complications associated with traditional radical mastectomy and is beneficial for subsequent immediate and delayed breast reconstruction. This approach may be suitable for most patients with early to mid-stage breast cancer who do not wish to undergo breast-conserving surgery.
Streetwise Scholars: How Formerly Incarcerated Latino Men Utilize Their Lived Experience to Navigate Higher Education
Authors: Hernandez Joe Louis , Martinez Eligio , Duran Oscar
Published: September 2024

Despite the growing trend in research on Latino men, one aspect that is missing is the experience of formerly incarcerated individuals. Using the asset-based framework of Community Cultural Wealth, the authors explore how formerly incarcerated Latino men become Streetwise Scholars, going from incarceration into higher education. Findings demonstrate how Streetwise Scholars are able to apply the capitals gained from their lived experience to successfully navigate higher education institutions.
A Defined, Plant-Based Diet and Other Integrative Therapies Improve Functional Status and Ejection Fraction while Reducing Medications in Patients With Heart Failure: A Case Series
Authors: Owens Camille V. , Najjar Rami S. , Bruce Marino A. , Beech Bettina M. , Montgomery Baxter D.
Published: September 2024

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is a major contributor of premature cardiovascular-related deaths. Patients are typically on numerous medications to manage this condition; however, patients continue to experience poor quality of life. Alternative therapeutic approaches are needed to treat HFrEF. The clinical course of seven patients with Stage C and D HFrEF who failed guideline-directed medical therapy were retrospectively analyzed based on medical chart data. All patients consumed a defined, plant-based diet as part of their clinical treatment, and a subset also underwent alternative treatment modalities: External Counterpulsation therapy, BEMER therapy, infrared sauna therapy, ozone therapy, or PlaqueX® therapy. Chart review of these patients indicated improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP). All patients also had a significant reduction in medication needs and body weight. Further, all patients reported significant improvements in their quality of life. These data suggest that a defined, plant-based diet combined with other alternative modalities may be efficacious in reducing HFrEF medications and treating Stage C or D HFrEF patients who failed guideline-direct medical therapies. Observations from this case series indicate a need for rigorous prospective studies to confirm these effects.
Dysorgasmia in women: Case report and preliminary assessment guide
Authors: Beerten Simon Gabriël , Coteur Kristien
Published: September 2024

Dysorgasmia in women is an infrequent reason for consulting a clinician. In this article, the authors describe the case of a woman with right-sided pelvic pain immediately after orgasm. Dysorgasmia is likely to negatively impact sexual health but is rarely discussed in medical literature. Furthermore, assessment and treatment guidelines for clinicians are currently lacking. Therefore, the authors conducted a literature review and created a preliminary assessment guide, considering both medical and gray literature. A brief flowchart was developed which can facilitate the assessment of dysorgasmia in women for clinicians and improve the quality of care for patients. Further research on the etiology and pathophysiology of dysorgasmia in women is warranted, as is a more proactive attitude of clinicians to discuss sexual health. More guidance on diagnosis and treatment is needed.
Misinformation about upper extremity conditions in guidelines for clinicians
Authors: Tonnel Louis , Thompson Jada , Ring David
Published: September 2024

The potential for reinforcement of unhelpful thinking and feelings of distress was present in half the sentences from the general description of the condition and management recommendation sections in three sources of information describing upper extremity conditions for clinicians.
Unlikely Death From Esophageal Variceal Hemorrhage in a Post-Orthotopic Liver Transplant Patient
Authors: Leatheng Chanbormey , Khatskevich Katsiaryna , Erno Jason , Riemer Ellen C.
Published: September 2024

Gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the complications seen after a liver transplant with a poor prognosis and low survival. The most common cause of gastrointestinal bleeding after a liver transplant is ulcers followed by hemorrhagic enteritis and portal hypertensive lesions. We present a case of a middle-aged male, with improving liver function labs and imaging, who passed away from large-volume hematemesis approximately 2 months after a liver transplant. On autopsy, the cause of death was concluded to be from acute upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage due to esophageal variceal bleeding.
Cancer, Coma, Chromosomes, and the Comforter: Investigating Scientific Mechanisms of Divine Healing and Design
Authors: Gunasekera Richard S.
Published: September 2024

While narratives of divine healing are common, we rarely encounter scientific investigations into divine healing presented to the scientist, the theologian, and the curious alike. This research begins by highlighting the brilliance of the design of the human body that has been intricately fine-tuned through the work of the Holy Spirit (HS) to resist disease. The study discusses how creation harbors plant-derived bioactive molecules strategically placed to safeguard and heal the body of certain cancers and other diseases through dietary means–a testament to the design and protective work of the HS intricately woven into nature. The study also scientifically investigates divine healing by examining evidence-based data on significant cases from medical records and scientific literature. We investigate cases of remarkable divine healings from metastatic cancer, inherited genetic disease, cardiac arrest, and coma in response to prayer for healing after modern medicine offered no permanent solution.
Digital technologies: Transforming home decor experience
Authors: Liu Claude CH , Chen Chris SC
Published: September 2024

As technology develops and customer expectations rise, the furniture industry must innovate and adapt to meet changing market needs. Digital technology is widely seen as a significant catalyst for development in the sector. The paper explores the furniture company UniHome’s journey towards digital transformation, from selling furnishing products to offering technology-driven interior design services. During its transformation, UniHome shifted its focus from the physical store experience to e-commerce shopping, showcasing furniture products with augmented reality (AR), interacting with customers through chatbots, and offering generative AI services. In order to evaluate the impact of any change initiative, UniHome must take into account factors such as business-IT alignment, operational costs, customer satisfaction, and sales growth. The objective of this article is to assist readers in developing a more sophisticated business mindset and understanding how to leverage emerging technologies to advance current developments, yet also recognising potential challenges that may arise.
The Anatomy and Embryology of Tetralogy of Fallot With Pulmonary Atresia
Authors: Aiello Vera D.
Published: September 2024

In this review, we approach the main morphologic and developmental aspects of the congenital cardiovascular malformation known as tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia. It is recognized that pulmonary atresia associated with a deficient ventricular septation can occur in several situations. However, the tetralogy presentation in particular, with frequent but not invariable concomitance of systemic-to-pulmonary collateral arteries supplying the lungs entirely or in part, poses surgical challenges. The variations in the morphology of such collateral arteries and the intracardiac anatomy are discussed.
Female Board Representation and Firm Market-based Performance: A Moderated Mediation Analysis in the Indian Context
Authors: Shah Avani
Published: September 2024

India has mandated at least one woman to be on company boards, starting in October 2014. This study aims to investigate the impact of female board members on market-based firm performance, using data from a sample of S&P Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) 500-listed firms from 2015 to 2022. By incorporating social theory and stakeholder theory, the study examines the circumstances under which female board members influence firm performance. Additionally, the study explores how their positive influence on sustainable practices affects market performance. The role of firm innovation intensity in moderating this connection is also explored. The study utilizes structural equation modeling (SEM) and PROCESS macro for quantitative empirical analysis. The results indicate that having female board representation is a strategic choice that significantly impacts a company’s performance in the market. The findings also reveal that when companies prioritize innovation, the presence of female board members has a positive influence. Overall, this research supports the “business case” argument, suggesting that female board representation through sustainability mechanisms can enhance market performance. The study’s outcomes provide valuable insights for investors, practitioners, and policymakers.