bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low Relational Mobility Fosters Interpersonal Indecision Through Increased Sensitivity to Social Rejection
Authors: Huang Kuan-Ju , de Almeida Igor , Uchida Yukiko , Oishi Shigehiro
Published: January 2025

Relational mobility is a socio-ecological factor that shapes our interpersonal behaviors. Across four studies involving three countries ( N = 2,874), we tested the hypothesis that low relational mobility increases sensitivity to social rejection, which in turn fosters decision avoidance and difficulty in interpersonal situations (i.e., interpersonal indecision). Study 1 showed that countries with low relational mobility reported more subjective difficulties in interpersonal decision-making. Studies 2a and 2b demonstrated that cross-country differences in interpersonal indecision can be mediated by relational mobility and concerns about rejection. Study 3 further revealed that this mechanism is driven by heightened concerns and evaluations of negative relationship outcomes. Study 4 replicated the proposed mechanism using a scale that assesses the general tendency to experience interpersonal indecision. Our findings highlight the importance of socio-ecological context in shaping experiences when navigating interpersonal relationships.
Chronic hypertension and perfusion deficits conjointly affect disease outcome after tPA treatment in a rodent model of thromboembolic stroke
Authors: Franx Bart AA , Tiebosch Ivo ACW , van der Toorn Annette , Dijkhuizen Rick M
Published: January 2025

Futile recanalization hampers prognoses for ischemic stroke patients despite successful recanalization therapy. Allegedly, hypertension and reperfusion deficits contribute, but a better understanding is needed of how they interact and mediate disease outcome. We reassessed data from spontaneously hypertensive and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto rats (male, n = 6–7/group) that were subjected to two-hour embolic middle cerebral artery occlusion and thrombolysis in preclinical trials. Serial MRI allowed lesion monitoring and parcellation of regions-of-interest that represented infarcted (core) or recovered (perilesional) tissue. Imaging markers of hemodynamics and blood-brain barrier (BBB) status were related to tissue fate and neurological outcome. Despite comparable ischemic severity during occlusion between groups, hypertensive rats temporarily developed larger lesions after recanalization, with permanently aggravated vasogenic edema and BBB permeability. One day post-stroke, cerebral blood flow (CBF) was variably restored, but blood transit times were consistently prolonged in hypertensives. Compared to the core, perilesional CBF was normo-to-hyperperfused in both groups, yet this pattern reversed after seven days. Volumes of hypo- and hyperperfusion developed irrespective of strain, differentially associating with final infarct volume and behavioral outcome. Incomplete reperfusion and cerebral injury after thrombolysis were augmented in hypertensive rats. One day after thrombolysis, fractional volumes of hypoperfusion associated with worsened outcomes, while fractional volumes of hyperperfusion appeared beneficial or benign.
How Can States Regulate De-Spatialized Phenomena? The Case of Occupational Licensing
Authors: Edisis Adrienne T.
Published: January 2025

The Covid-19 pandemic compelled U.S. states to forge their own paths to guide their citizens through new dangers and challenges, yet made clear that state borders cannot hold against pathogens, people, or technology. How can states regulate increasingly de-spatialized phenomena? State legislators and regulators face this dilemma in the case of occupational licensing. This paper identifies a spatial mismatch between the individual state jurisdiction of occupational licensing regulations and the interstate reach of services provision by practitioners of licensed occupations. It investigates the origins of this mismatch, as well as a functional mismatch between state occupational licensing regimes established before 1900 and the current context. By building on insights from historical analysis of legacy state occupational licensing regimes; learning from examples of regulation of de-spatialized and digitalized economic activity; enlisting historical institutionalist-defined modes of gradual institutional change; and updating a classic typology of policy tools for regulation, a risk-based classification template for state regulation of services provided by professionals and skilled workers in currently licensed occupations is proposed. More broadly, analysis of the case of occupational licensing illustrates the potential of diversifying regulation of de-spatialized phenomena from authoritative mandates to regulatory programs comprised of a policy mix of mandate, information, incentive, and multi-mechanism tools better suited to porous political borders.
Learning-based legged locomotion: State of the art and future perspectives
Authors: Ha Sehoon , Lee Joonho , van de Panne Michiel , Xie Zhaoming , Yu Wenhao , Khadiv Majid
Published: January 2025

Legged locomotion holds the premise of universal mobility, a critical capability for many real-world robotic applications. Both model-based and learning-based approaches have advanced the field of legged locomotion in the past three decades. In recent years, however, a number of factors have dramatically accelerated progress in learning-based methods, including the rise of deep learning, rapid progress in simulating robotic systems, and the availability of high-performance and affordable hardware. This article aims to give a brief history of the field, to summarize recent efforts in learning locomotion skills for quadrupeds, and to provide researchers new to the area with an understanding of the key issues involved. With the recent proliferation of humanoid robots, we further outline the rapid rise of analogous methods for bipedal locomotion. We conclude with a discussion of open problems as well as related societal impact.
Maternal Incarceration and Health Risk Behaviors Among Adolescents: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Zhao Qianwei
Published: January 2025

Most studies on the impact of maternal incarceration on adolescent health risk behaviors have focused on singular, separated behaviors, even though these behaviors often cluster and co-occur. This study used the FFCWS dataset to examine the association between maternal incarceration and the aggregation of health risk behaviors among adolescents. Latent class analysis suggested the four-class model had the optimal model fit. Multinomial logistic regression revealed that the odds of adolescents with maternal incarceration histories being classified into the “high dietary risk behavior,” “high insomnia risk behavior,” and “high health risk behavior” groups, compared to the “low health risk behavior” group, were 4.02 times, 3.12 times, and 7.80 times those of adolescents without such experience, respectively. Findings contributed to our knowledge of maternal incarceration’s collateral consequences and suggested it be considered in bundled interventions targeting adolescents. Future research that disentangles these relationships’ underlying explanatory factors and sociodemographic moderators is needed.
Low-Cost Lower Extremity Screening to Predict Shoulder Distraction Force in College Softball Pitchers
Authors: Ulman Sophia M. , Nebel Adam R. , Bordelon Nicole M. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: January 2025

Background:

During a windmill softball pitch, the throwing shoulder experiences forces greater than the pitcher’s body weight. Various kinematic, kinetic, and performance factors have been related to shoulder forces and torques in softball pitchers, and softball research has examined clinical screening measures such as range of motion, muscular strength, and/or neuromuscular control. However, no studies have explicitly identified low-cost, clinic-friendly screening measures predictive of shoulder distraction forces in softball pitchers.

Purpose:

To predict shoulder distraction force using low-cost, in-clinic screening measures, including isometric hip rotation strength and trunk mechanics during a single-leg squat.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Biomechanical and strength data of 46 collegiate softball pitchers (mean age, 19.8 ± 1.1 years; mean height, 1.7 ± 0.1 m; mean weight, 78.9 ± 11.9 kg) were retrospectively analyzed. Data included shoulder distraction forces captured during a windmill pitch, trunk flexion during a single-leg squat, and isometric hip rotation strength. Subsequently, 4 separate linear regressions with model comparisons were performed to determine if the isometric hip rotation strength and trunk flexion during a single-leg squat could independently predict peak shoulder distraction force after accounting for body mass and pitch velocity.

Results:

The null model, including body mass and pitch velocity, significantly predicted peak shoulder distraction force ( P < .001), accounting for 49.9% of the variance. Of the predictors, the isometric drive hip rotation strength ratio was able to significantly predict peak shoulder distraction force beyond the effects of body mass and pitch velocity ( P = .015), resulting in a 6.3% increase in variability accounted for (56.2% of the variance of shoulder distraction force).

Conclusion:

The isometric drive hip rotation strength ratio is related to shoulder distraction force and can be used as a low-cost screening measure for collegiate softball pitchers. However, pitch velocity and body mass should also be considered, as these measures accounted for the majority of the variance in shoulder distraction force.

Clinical Relevance:

It is important that screening measures used for softball pitchers consider the multisegment synergy required for pitching and therefore evaluate imbalances and deficiencies associated with the high forces acting on the shoulder. The current study found that collegiate softball pitchers can be proactively screened for greater shoulder distraction forces using isometric hip rotation strength. These findings emphasize to coaches and clinicians the importance of evaluating lower extremity risk factors in upper extremity athletes, and support using a low-cost, low-technology screening measure to identify softball pitchers who are more likely to experience high shoulder distraction forces.
Public Sector Employees’ Political Activity Across Administrative Traditions: Tensions Between Democratic Participation and Bureaucratic Impartiality in an Era of Populism and Democratic Backsliding
Authors: Cooper Christopher A. , Reggie Jackson
Published: January 2025

In the face of a global rise of populism and democratic backsliding, several scholars have argued that public servants can play an important role in safeguarding the integrity of our democracies. But are public servants equally likely to be politically active in all countries? While a large body of scholarship has found that public sector employees participate in a variety of political activities more than private sector employees, most studies use data from a single, often Western, country. Drawing upon literature studying administrative traditions, this article theoretically considers differences in traditions’ participation-impartiality equilibrium—the balance struck between the democratic value of political participation and the bureaucratic value of impartiality—and hypothesizes that the nature of the relationship public sector employment has with political activity varies across countries belonging to different traditions. Using data from the World Values Survey and the European Values Study, this article empirically investigates whether the nature of the relationship public sector employment has with political activity varies across the Anglo-American, Nordic, Germanic, Napoleonic, Confucian, and Latin American administrative traditions in ways that are consistent with differences in their participation-impartiality equilibrium. The results from various multivariate regression models show that administrative traditions do matter. Consistent with our theoretical expectations, public sector employment’s positive relationship with political activity is less pronounced in the Anglo-American, Nordic and Confucian administrative traditions than in the Germanic, Napoleonic and Latin American traditions. The findings suggest that public sector employees’ role in protecting democratic principles, at least as far as participating in the political realm as private citizens, will likely vary across countries belonging to different administrative traditions.
Canadian Association of Radiologists Cancer Diagnostic Imaging Referral Guideline
Authors: Hamel Candyce , Avard Barb , Lim Howard , Mathieson Alex , Michaud Alan , Nelson Kristoff , Odedra Devang , Pantarotto Jason , Wilkinson Anna , Samji Karim
Published: January 2025

The Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) Cancer Expert Panel is made up of physicians from the disciplines of radiology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, family medicine/general practitioner oncology, a patient advisor, and an epidemiologist/guideline methodologist. The Expert Panel developed a list of 29 clinical/diagnostic scenarios, of which 16 pointed to other CAR guidelines. A rapid scoping review was undertaken to identify systematically produced referral guidelines that provide recommendations for one or more of the remaining 13 scenarios. Recommendations from 21 guidelines and contextualization criteria in the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) for guidelines framework were used to develop the recommendation for these scenarios. During recommendation formulation, one additional scenario was mapped to an existing CAR guideline scenario, leaving 12 scenarios with new recommendations. The guideline focuses on cancer diagnosis and does not cover cancer staging, follow-up, and surveillance. This guideline presents the methods of development and the referral recommendations for suspected pancreatic cancer, suspected liver cancer, incidental liver mass, incidental colon mass or suspected colon cancer, suspected anal cancer, suspected penile cancer, suspected cervical cancer, suspected endometrial/uterine cancer, suspected vulvar cancer, suspected vaginal cancer, suspected haematologic malignancies, and suspected skin cancer. The guideline also points to other CAR guidelines for suspected neck, thyroid, brain, lung, intracardiac/pericardial, esophageal/gastric, renal, adrenal, bladder, testicular, prostate and ovarian cancers, suspected soft tissue mass or tumour, suspected bone tumour, suspected bone tumour --myeloma, suspected spine tumours, and incidental lung cancer.
Effects of laser shock peening on the surface integrity and fatigue properties of 34CrNiMo6 steel
Authors: Tang Zhenrong , Hou Zhibao , Du Haifeng , Yao Zhenqiang
Published: January 2025

Laser shock peening (LSP) is an advanced surface modification technology and is widely used for the fatigue strengthening of metallic materials. In this study, the effects of LSP on the surface structure, microhardness, residual stress, and fatigue properties of 34CrNiMo6 were experimentally investigated. The axial fatigue tests of were carried out and the S–N curves were fitted to evaluate the fatigue strength of 34CrNiMo6 specimens before and after LSP. The fatigue fractures were characterized. The results indicated that the high-cycle fatigue strength at 106 cycles increased from 417 MPa to 448 MPa after LSP treatment. The CRS formed on the surface layer of the specimen and its beneficial effect on delaying crack initiation, narrowing the fatigue striation width, reducing the crack growth rate, and enhancing the fracture toughness were the main mechanisms for improving the fatigue performance. The present study provides a reference for improving the fatigue performance of 34CrNiMo6 steel via LSP.
Optimization of manipulator inverse kinematics using improved particle swarm algorithm for enhanced manufacturing efficiency
Authors: Li Zhentao , Wang Panfeng , Feng Yun , Zhang Guanjun , Guo Zhiyang , Zhang Minghui , Zhang Yi
Published: January 2025

In the context of digital manufacturing and intelligent manufacturing systems, optimizing the inverse kinematics (IK) of manipulators is crucial for improving manufacturing efficiency and productivity. The authors propose an improved particle swarm optimizer (IPSO) with adaptive inertia weight and asynchronous learning factors to enhance the optimization performance. The proposed algorithm introduces a novel mutation strategy where selected initial particles undergo mutation to generate new particles, thereby increasing swarm diversity. The best-performing particles after mutation replace the initial ones to improve global optimization capability. The effectiveness of the IPSO algorithm is evaluated through thirteen classical benchmark functions and compared with genetic algorithms (GA), standard particle swarm optimization (PSO), linear decreasing weight PSO (LDWPSO), and biogeography-based PSO (BLPSO), quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (QPSO), Levy Flight quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization (LQPSO), Gaussian quantum-behaved particle swarm optimization approaches (GQPSO). Experimental mean results demonstrate that the IPSO algorithm outperforms these algorithms. The IPSO algorithm and the other algorithms subsequently were employed to estimate the performance for tackling the IK problem of a manipulator and the comparison results demonstrate the superior performance of IPSO algorithm in terms of accuracy and convergence rate. Finally, the practical efficacy of the IPSO algorithm was validated through experimental trials conducted on a custom-designed six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) collaborative robotic manipulator platform, which demonstrated the viability of IPSO algorithm in real-world manufacturing applications. The findings suggest that the proposed IPSO algorithm offers a promising solution for enhancing manipulator control efficiency in digital manufacturing systems. The IPSO code is available at: https://10.6084/m9.figshare.27753549 .
Impact of Holocene relative sea-level changes on patch reef-island development in the Spermonde Archipelago, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Hynes Michael G , Masdar Halwi , Parenden Dedi , de Voogd Nicole J , Stuut Jan-Berend W , Jompa Jamaluddin , Webster Jody M , Renema Willem
Published: January 2025

Reef cores that have been radiometrically dated are increasingly used to examine Holocene reef geomorphology, accretion rates, and community changes. Further, these accretion rates can be compared to sea level change regimes to see if, and how coral reefs have been keeping up with sea level. As Sea level rise is expected to accelerate over the next 100 years, it is important to examine whether these reef complexes are able to “keep up” and avoid “drowning.” Coring has been conducted in many highly studied areas such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Caribbean. However, in the Indo-Pacific region, an area of the highest coral diversity, there have been only a handful of reef cores collected. Here, we present data of 16 cores from two islands of different reef zones from the Spermonde Archipelago, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Cores were taken from the reef flat and slope, with recovered length varying from 0.41 to 3.53 m, providing a history of each reef after radiocarbon dating. From 7200 to 5500 YBP, sea level rise rapidly increased and these reef complexes accreted at rates able to match this. This is in part driven by a higher occurrence of massive and foliose corals. After this point and toward the present day, sea level declined, causing sub-aerial exposure of these sand cays and the slope now sustaining the growth. This shows that these reef complexes (some of which contain heavily populated islands) are able to keep growing in the face of sea level rise regimes.
Multicategory matched learning for estimating optimal individualized treatment rules in observational studies with application to a hepatocellular carcinoma study
Authors: Li Xuqiao , Zhou Qiuyan , Wu Ying , Yan Ying
Published: January 2025

One primary goal of precision medicine is to estimate the individualized treatment rules that optimize patients’ health outcomes based on individual characteristics. Health studies with multiple treatments are commonly seen in practice. However, most existing individualized treatment rule estimation methods were developed for the studies with binary treatments. Many require that the outcomes are fully observed. In this article, we propose a matching-based machine learning method to estimate the optimal individualized treatment rules in observational studies with multiple treatments when the outcomes are fully observed or right-censored. We establish theoretical property for the proposed method. It is compared with the existing competitive methods in simulation studies and a hepatocellular carcinoma study.
Practical and economic challenges of implementing group auricular acupuncture treatment for chronic pain in primary care
Authors: Majd Iman , Cherkin Daniel , Sasagawa Masa
Published: January 2025

Background:

Although growing numbers of patients seek acupuncture for pain management, few acupuncturists with insurance credentialing work in the conventional medical settings. This has resulted in increasing frustration among patients wishing to receive acupuncture in primary care settings as part of their insurance benefits.

Methods:

A course of eight weekly sessions of group auricular acupuncture (AA) for chronic musculoskeletal pain was implemented in a US primary care clinic and billed to insurance. The process of implementing group AA is described, including patients and researchers’ perceptions of their experience. We also examined various hypothetical scenarios for reimbursement based on relative value units (RVUs) based on Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) billing/coding.

Results:

Recruitment was greatly limited by COVID-19 requirements for social distancing and administrative hurdles, such that only four patients participated, three of whom attended all eight sessions. Seven additional Medicare patients were excluded due to concerns that acupuncture would not be covered. Participants reported mostly positive experiences with both AA and the group model of care. Based on our hypothetical reimbursement scenarios, in the fee-for-service model, group sessions appear to be economically more viable when staffed by non-physician acupuncturists credentialed for insurance reimbursement. For example, for a group of six patients each receiving acupuncture would be anticipated to generate 3.60 RVUs, whereas a physician seeing three individual patients consecutively for return office visits at CMS Evaluation and Management (E/M) level 3 could generate at least 4.11 RVUs.

Conclusions:

Offering group AA services in primary care clinics might increase access to acupuncture for patients with chronic pain. Although patients appreciated quicker access to acupuncture through group visits, and the group visit experience itself, logistical and economic barriers remain a challenge for sustainable group-based acupuncture visits.
Shifting Cultivation—A Way of Life of Kandhas of Kandhamal: Is it Under Threat?
Authors: Behera Simpul , Rout Sili
Published: January 2025

Forest is a complex phenomenon characterized by distinct configurations of vegetation and wildlife. Human interference shapes its development under specific climate conditions. The continuous practice of slashing and burning changes the patterns of vegetation and animal populations. Critics perceive shifting cultivation as an environmentally harmful practice, while others argue that it is a specific adaptation to forests and hill environments. This article examines the existing shifting cultivation practices of the Kandha tribe in Odisha, India. The Kandha contest the dominant narratives on shifting cultivation, or poduchas, and argue to assert their rights over the forest and nature. They claim themselves to be the “Sons of the Soil” and forest inhabitants. Their life-worlds and culture rely on their symbiotic relationship with nature. This worldview intertwines the practice of living in “nature” with agriculture, which is considered a separate activity. However, today economic “development” and sociocultural changes have broken down the relationships between the Kandha tribe and their natural habitat. They resent the presence of exploitative traders and governments who have forced poduchas to become their primary means of subsistence. Resistance to market-mediated relations and the resilience of traditional food collection methods characterize present-day living. As a result, the Kandhas continue living the way they are familiar with, favoring both the people and nature. The present article, based on ethnographic field research, examines the changing practices and worldviews embedded in the sociocultural as well as economic lives of the Kandhas.
Identifying Molecular Mechanisms of Cinnamomum cassia in the Treatment of Osteoporosis Based on Network Pharmacology and Validations
Authors: Sun Xianwen , Fei Jun
Published: January 2025

Background

Osteoporosis is a common condition among the elderly, characterized by reduced bone density and an increased susceptibility to fractures. The efficacy of Cinnamomum cassia in treating osteoporosis is recognized, though its precise molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

Purpose

To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of C. cassia using network pharmacology, molecular docking technology (MDT), and molecular dynamics simulation (MDS).

Materials and Methods

Bioinformatics databases identified active compounds and disease targets. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed, followed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. MDT and MDS validated the binding affinity between C. cassia’s active compounds and key targets.

Results

Ten active compounds of C. cassia were identified, modulating the PPAR, HIF-1, AMPK, and cAMP signaling pathways. Key genes include PPARG, PTGS2, PPARA, BDNF, and RXRA. Molecular docking and simulations confirmed high binding affinity between active compounds and targets, supporting their role in regulating bone metabolism.

Conclusion

This study highlights the multi-target mechanisms of C. cassia in treating osteoporosis, emphasizing its therapeutic potential through pathway-based modulation of key genes. These findings provide a basis for further research in modernizing traditional Chinese medicine for osteoporosis management.
The Ethanol Extract of Sugemule-3 Decoction Treats Isoproterenol-induced Heart Failure in Rats via PPARγ/PGC-1 Pathway
Authors: Pan XueDong , Wang HongYang , Li Qian , Zhang FuLi
Published: January 2025

Background

The herbs Baidoukou (the fruit of Amomum compactum Sol. ex Maton), Baijusheng (the fruit of Lactuca sativa L.), and Biba ( Piper longum L.) make up the traditional Mongolian medicine known as Sugemule-3 decoction.

Purpose:

Heart failure (HF) is severely impacted; however, the pharmacological mechanism behind it is yet unclear. This investigation looked at the Sugemule-3 ethanol extract’s therapeutic mechanism for isoproterenol-induced HF in rats.

Methods

To create a HF model, isoproterenol was administered to Wistar rats. Following the model’s successful establishment, various medications were administered for 4 weeks. The electrical signals of cardiac fluctuations, cardiac morphology, and function were observed using electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiography. The rats were killed 4 weeks later, and the hearts were observed using an electron microscope and HE staining. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was observed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) staining. The levels of markers in serum were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blot and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of proteins in rats.

Results

Our findings show that isoproterenol injection subcutaneously interfered with the structure and function of the left ventricle, particularly during systole. In the model group, the level of oxidative stress index malondialdehyde ( p < 0.01) increased with the decrease in anti-oxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase ( p < 0.01) and glutathione peroxidase ( p < 0.01). Sugemule-3 ethanol extract considerably reduced the harmful effects of isoproterenol on the rat myocardium. Additionally, isoproterenol increased the level of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR), carnitine palmitoyl transferase-1 (CPT-1), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCK), stearyl CoA desaturase-1 (SCD-1), and ubiquitin-conjugating (UCB) expression while decreasing the level of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1 (PGC-1) expression, leading to cardiometabolic diseases. Sugemule-3 ethanol extract improved cardiac metabolism.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate that Sugemule-3 ethanol extract may improve energy metabolism of cardiomyocytes and alleviate isoproterenol-induced HF through inhibiting the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ)/PGC-1 signaling pathway.
Weaving the strands together for a stronger future: Responding to the mental health needs of Pacific children and young people
Authors: Kowalenko Nicholas , Hagali Monica , Robertson Paul , Heron Craig , Douch Mandy , Katzer Juana , Rogers Ben , Awram Ruby
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this paper is to summarise the findings of a virtual workshop at the Creating Futures 2023 Conference held on October 18 with 45 participants attending from Fiji, PNG, Solomon Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Cook Islands, Australia and New Zealand. Brief presentations about future mental health needs of Pacific children & young people were followed by small group discussions. These focussed on how island nation participants could “make it real” by considering actions to promote mental health and wellbeing in their communities.

Conclusions

A wide variety of actions and strategies were recommended, spanning the implementation of national plans, integrating culture, preventing suicide, including the voice of children and managing trauma. The small group discussions found that the range of responses to meet future needs demanded a broad public health response, significant workforce development and the promotion of mental health.
Understanding Staff Needs for Improving End-Of-Life Care in Critical Care Units: A Qualitative Focus Group Analysis and Service Evaluation
Authors: Tavabie Simon , Pearson Stephen , Balabanovic Janet , Batho Anna , Juj Manoj , Kastande Priscilla , Bennetts Joanne , Collis Emily , Bonnici Tim
Published: January 2025

Objectives: Critical care is a place of frequent death, up to a quarter of those admitted die during admission. Caring for dying people provides many challenges, practically, professionally and personally. The aim of this study was to better understand the perspectives of staff caring for dying people in critical care and identify their priorities for improvement. Method: Three multidisciplinary focus groups of critical care staff at a large central London hospitals trust were facilitated with a semi structured format and digitally transcribed. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted to extract themes. Results: N = 34 (18 nursing, 7 allied health professionals, 6 medical, 3 clerical/administrative). The five themes were structured as priority statements: “We need to recognise” included the subthemes of being “sick enough to die” and potential rapid deteriorations in this setting; “We need to understand” with subthemes of perspectives on dying and prioritising time for conversations; “We need to connect” with subthemes of therapeutic relationship and physical presence; “We need to collaborate” with subthemes of critical care working and empowerment, and cross teams working; “We need support” with themes of experiencing support and making time to support others. Conclusion: We present an approach to identifying critical care departmental priorities for an end-of-life care improvement programme. The themes extracted will be used to evaluate systems for dying in critical care, aiming to empower staff to provide excellent care every time they look after a dying person. Relevance to Practice: This service evaluation identifies key priorities among critical care staff regarding end-of-life care. The insights can guide service improvements, such as tailored training and enhanced support for staff, to ensure better communication, collaboration, and quality care for patients at the end of life.
Countering International Backlash by Discrediting the Messengers: Reputational Chaining and LGBT+ Rights in Bosnia
Authors: Ayoub Phillip M. , Page Douglas , Whitt Sam
Published: January 2025

How can LGBT+ activists counter growing international backlash, especially in conservative contexts where LGBT+ people face discrimination? We consider the consequences of linking domestic opponents of LGBT+ rights to international anti-LGBT+ messengers, arguing that such linkages might work to impede backlash. The case of Bosnia informs our study as a conservative society where LGBT+ people have made both progress but also face staunch opposition. We inquire how linking domestic anti-LGBT+ political leaders (i.e., reputational chaining) to the agenda of Russian President Vladimir Putin, a well-recognized but also polarizing international anti-LGBT+ messenger, influences public opinion. Our experiments are designed to raise questions about the moral authority of Putin and political leaders associated with him. Based on a nationwide survey experiment in July and October 2023, we find that priming on Putin’s anti-LGBT+ messaging reduces appraisals of Putin’s moral authority and increases support for LGBT+ rights. In a second experiment, we illustrate how linking Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik’s anti-LGBT+ messaging to Putin also undercuts Dodik’s appeal. We reflect on the implications of our findings for theories of norm entrepreneurship in international relations and for strategies to counter anti-LGBT+ backlash in conservative contexts.
Bosworth fracture: Pathoanatomy, Complications, and Medium-term Results of Treatment
Authors: Bartoníček, MD, PhD Jan , Rammelt Stefan , Tuček Michal , Douša, MD, PhD Pavel , Stöckigt, MD Caroline
Published: January 2025

Background:

Bosworth fractures (BFs) with entrapment of a fibular fragment behind the posterior malleolus (PM) are rare but potentially serious injuries to the ankle. Despite an increased awareness through a more regular use of computed tomography (CT) scanning, there is still a scarcity of clinical outcome studies.

Methods:

Over a course of 25 years, data on 23 patients treated for BF at our institutions (mean age 44 years) were collected prospectively. Of those, 16 patients had a Weber type B fracture with displacement of the proximal fibular fragment and 7 patients Weber type C fractures with displacement of the distal fibular fragment behind PM. All but 1 patient, who refused operative treatment, were treated with open reduction and internal fixation. A total of 21 patients were followed up for an average of 66 (range, 18-204) months.

Results:

The PM was fractured in 96% and the Tillaux-Chaput tubercle in 13% of cases. In 80% of patients with preoperative CT scans, the fibular fragment was entrapped between the posterior aspect of the distal tibia and the displaced PM fragment. An initial attempt at closed reduction was successful in 4 of 7 Weber type C fractures and in none of 16 Weber type B fractures. The overall complication rate was 22%. Eighty-one percent of patients rated their results as good or excellent. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score at the final follow-up averaged 84.1 (range, 45-100). Risk factors for postoperative osteoarthritis and poor functional results included unsuccessful closed reduction, inadequate open reduction, and avascular necrosis of the talus. Clinical and radiographic results were correlated.

Conclusion:

Unsuccessful initial reduction and failure to achieve anatomic open reduction were associated with posttraumatic arthritis whereas open anatomic reduction and internal fixation resulted in favorable functional and radiographic results in the medium to long term.
Bargaining for Benefits: The Dilemmas of Implementing the West Harlem Community Benefits Agreement
Authors: Robinson Nicholas A.
Published: January 2025

Universities have historically functioned as anchors for broader visions of urban development. As sites where residents mobilize to protect their livelihoods and communities from university expansion, these spaces prompt two important questions. How can residents exert influence over these projects to ensure they benefit from new development? And how can communities better ensure that promised benefits are effectively delivered over time? This article uses the West Harlem Community Benefits Agreement to explore these questions. It evaluates its unfolding implementation, specifically the frustrated link between successful negotiation for community benefits and effective delivery of them. I argue these frustrations stem from the outsourcing of responsibility for benefits delivery to the West Harlem Development Corporation, which lacked opportunities for long-term public accountability and the effective ability to implement them. More broadly, this article problematizes development strategies that prescribe private and localized solutions for structural urban problems.
A single-centre retrospective evaluation of potential drug-drug interactions in breast cancer patients undergoing CDK 4/6 inhibitors chemotherapy
Authors: Patil Prajakta Harish , Desai Mrunal Pradeep , Baburaj Gayathri , Rao Mahadev , Kunhikatta Vijayanarayana , Udupa Karthik , Pai Ananth , Jagadish P. C.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The utilization of CDK4/6 inhibitors has led to compromised survival rates for breast cancer patients. Consequently, certain treatment aspects, involving adherence and drug-to-drug interactions, are gaining prominence. To develop chemotherapy regimens that are both effective and efficient, our main objective was to thoroughly characterize the drug-drug interactions that occur between cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors and concurrently prescribed medications in hospitalized breast cancer patients.

Methods

In the current retrospective analysis, (January 2017 to January 2023), the baseline characteristics of patients under CDK4/6 chemotherapy were collected by reviewing the patient's medical records. Utilizing drug interactions checker softwares including Micromedex® online database system, Drugs.com® interaction checker, and UpToDate Lexicomp®, the potential for drug-drug interactions was further assessed.

Results

In this retrospective analysis, total of 75 co-medications were prescribed along with palbociclib and ribociclib. Upon analysing all co-prescribed classes of drugs, the potential drug interactions of palbociclib and ribociclib with analgesics, acid-reducing agents, and statins occurred frequently in cancer patients. In the 21-patient cohort, 17 patients (80.95%), were found to be having prevalence of potential drug-drug interactions out of which 41.26% had major pharmacokinetic interactions, 42.85% were moderate ones, while 15.87% were pharmacodynamic interactions.

Conclusion

The retrospective analysis identified the potential risks associated with drug-drug interactions of cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors. Potentially, the application of drug interaction detectors could facilitate additional implementation of research specially designed for interventions aimed at enhancing patient care.
How Do Personality Dysfunction and Maladaptive Personality Traits Predict Time to Premature Discontinuation of Pharmacological Treatment of ADHD?
Authors: Jacobsson Peter , Granqvist Tove , Hopwood Christopher J. , Krueger Robert F. , Söderpalm Bo , Nilsson Thomas
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

Non-adherence to medication is common in the adult ADHD clinical group. The goal of this pre-registered study was to examine whether the DSM-5 Alternative Model of Personality Disorder (AMPD), generality personality dysfunction (LPFS-BF 2.0) or maladaptive personality traits (PID-5), can predict time to premature discontinuation of pharmacological treatment beyond other known factors.

Methods:

A sample of 284 adult patients with ADHD (60.6% female; Mage = 32.31 years) were investigated for medication adherence from 2018 to 2023, using time-to-event analytic methods.

Results:

Of the sample, 54 were found to have discontinued treatment prematurely without consulting their physician. Interestingly this group was prescribed considerably lower doses before discontinuation than adhering patients. General personality dysfunction and maladaptive antagonistic personality traits are implicated in varying degrees, with the specific maladaptive personality facets Intimacy Avoidance and Deceitfulness (PID-5) significantly predicting time to premature discontinuation of ADHD medication beyond other known reasons for non-adherence.

Conclusions:

The broader implication is that the emerging personality pathology models hold promise to predict non-adherence in the adult ADHD population.
Development of a Navigator-Delivered Health Insurance Education Program for Hispanic and Latine Communities
Authors: Waters Austin R. , Vaca Lopez Perla L. , Rios Luis , Chevrier Amy , Guadarrama Maria , Contreras Julie , Ou Judy Y. , Slonaker Matt , Kirchhoff Anne C.
Published: January 2025

Background

Equitable access to health care services for Hispanic and Latine populations requires that systems go beyond working to increase enrollment in health insurance but also addressing health insurance literacy—the knowledge, ability, and confidence to find and use health insurance.

Methods

In collaboration with a local health policy organization, individual interviews were conducted with Hispanic and Latine community members. Group engagement sessions were conducted with key professionals. Interviews and engagement sessions focused on the adaptation of an existing health insurance education program (HIEP) to Spanish-speaking Hispanic and Latine individuals. An outline of the proposed HIEP content was provided prior to each interview or engagement session. Qualitative content was analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis guided by the intervention adaptation literature.

Results

A total of N = 20 professionals participated in an engagement session, while N = 21 community members took part in an interview. Professionals worked in both health care systems (55%) and community organizations (45%). Community members were on average 41 years of age ( SD = 13), 81% female, and 100% Hispanic or Latine. Qualitative analysis revealed that participants overwhelmingly supported the adaptation of the HIEP and approved of the proposed topics. Participants also provided recommendations to improve the intervention content and characteristics including a focus on controlling costs, tailoring to the population, ensuring accessibility of content, and specifics regarding the HIEP delivery and facilitator.

Conclusions

Overall participants were supportive of the proposed HIEP adaptation and provided a variety of recommendations. Health insurance literacy was perceived as an important next step to enrollment in health insurance.
Handmade Histories: An Analysis of Australian Comics Procured from Zine Fairs, Comics Fairs and Market Days and Published in 2022
Authors: Scott Ronnie , MacFarlane Elizabeth , Clark Gabriel , O’Shea Meg , Grant Patrick
Published: January 2025

What kinds of comics were sold and procured from Australia's zine fairs, comics fairs and market days in 2022? The research team for Folio, a comics oral history project, visited Australian zine fairs, comics fairs and market days between February and October 2022 at a time when many such marketplaces had resumed trade for the first time after 2 years of COVID lockdowns. The research team identified 144 comics that were clearly identifiable as being published in 2022, and then investigated this cross-section of Australia's comics life in 2022, finding a frequent focus on COVID; mental health, disability and chronic illness; online life; place; and climate disaster. Beyond the documentation of these comics and themes from an important but easily-missed quadrant of Australian comics publishing, the research team considers this comics environment – with its links to other publishing cultures, its incorporation of anomalies – for its research potential.
Mechanical and corrosion behaviour of Al7075 alloy reinforced with SiC and cenosphere particles
Authors: Y. S. Balaji , K. S. Keerthiprasad , Babu E. R. , Bains Pardeep Singh , Sharma Rohit , Anjinappa Chandrashekar , Kumar Raman , Kumar Raman , Prakash Chander , Kumar Sandeep
Published: January 2025

Hybrid composites are novel composites that can meet the demands of cutting-edge applications. They may be utilized to meet advanced applications by maximizing weight reduction by reducing adhesive film weight and performance through increased characteristics. The mechanical and corrosion study of Al 7075 hybrid metal matrix composites reinforced with weight percentage (wt.%) of silicon carbide 2, 4, 6, and 8 and 5 wt.% of cenosphere is studied in this work. Composites prepared by the liquid metallurgy route were studied at room temperature to estimate seawater's hardness, tensile strength, and corrosion rate for various silicon carbide (SiC) inclusions using the electrochemical method. The results revealed that an Al7075 hybrid composite reinforced with 6 wt.% SiC had a higher tensile strength of 263 MPa, an increase of approximately 43 MPa (20%) over the basic alloy. The hardness of the Al7075/SiC/cenosphere composite was 128 HV with the addition of wt.% SiC reinforcement. The actual density of the Al 7075/SiC/Cenosphere composite has resulted in increased density compared to the as-cast base metal. According to polarization characteristics in natural seawater, aluminum alloy reinforced with 8 wt.% SiC demonstrated an efficiency of 58.67%, whereas electrochemical impedance measurements in natural seawater indicated 76.91%. The hybrid Al7075 composite with 8 wt.% SiC has a reduced corrosion rate in saltwater compared to pure alloy. Tafel Polarization experiments demonstrate that the hybrid metal matrix composite with 8 wt.% SiC corroded at a lower rate than the base alloy. According to the micrographs, the SiC reinforcement with the matrix alloy reduced corrosion by forming strong interfacial and intermetallic bonding.
Acute eculizumab treatment in a pediatric patient with AQP4-IgG+ NMOSD
Authors: Soni Ria H , Garcia Mekka , Oak Eunhye , Applbaum Eliana J , Rajagopalan Logi , Krupp Lauren B , O’Neill Kimberly A
Published: January 2025

Background:

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune disorder that occurs in children and adults.

Case:

We report a case of a 10-year-old female with AQP4+ NMOSD who presented with paraparesis from longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) from C2 to the conus medullaris. The patient showed gradual improvement in strength and sensation with solumedrol and plasma exchange therapy. Given her severe presentation, eculizumab therapy was also initiated acutely. She had near complete recovery, although she developed a myelitis relapse during transition to rituximab treatment.

Conclusion:

This case demonstrates the role of eculizumab as a safe and effective treatment option in treating an acute attack of pediatric AQP4+ NMOSD. More data are needed to understand the risk of relapse if transitioning off of these highly effective medications.