bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of social vulnerability index on Medicare beneficiaries’ expenditures upon discharge
Authors: Ibrahim Ramzi , Lin Lifeng , Sainbayar Enkhtsogt , Pham Hoang Nhat , Shahid Mahek , Le Cam Elise , William Preethi , Paulo Ferreira Joao , Al-Kindi Sadeer , Mamas Mamas A
Published: April 2024

Medicare beneficiaries’ healthcare spending varies across geographical regions, influenced by availability of medical resources and institutional efficiency. We aimed to evaluate whether social vulnerability influences healthcare costs among Medicare beneficiaries. Multivariable regression analyses were conducted to determine whether the social vulnerability index (SVI), released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), was associated with average submitted covered charges, total payment amounts, or total covered days upon hospital discharge among Medicare beneficiaries. We used information from discharged Medicare beneficiaries from hospitals participating in the Inpatient Prospective Payment System. Covariate adjustment included demographic information consisting of age groups, race/ethnicity, and Hierarchical Condition Category risk score. The regressions were performed with weights proportioned to the number of discharges. Average submitted covered charges significantly correlated with SVI (β = 0.50, p < 0.001) in the unadjusted model and remained significant in the covariates-adjusted model (β = 0.25, p = 0.039). The SVI was not significantly associated with the total payment amounts (β = −0.07, p = 0.238) or the total covered days (β = 0.00, p = 0.953) in the adjusted model. Regional variations in Medicare beneficiaries’ healthcare spending exist and are influenced by levels of social vulnerability. Further research is warranted to fully comprehend the impact of social determinants on healthcare costs.
Estrogen Receptor Is Required for Metformin-Induced Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cells Under Hyperglycemic Conditions
Authors: Sekar Andisyah Putri , Nurmala Septia , Matsuura Eiji , Tan Xian Wen , Rahmasari Ratika , Sauriasari Rani
Published: April 2024

Backgrounds:

About 25% to 30% of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer patients develop resistance to endocrine therapy. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) has been shown to cooperate with several growth factors that regulate cellular energy metabolism, including the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R).

Objective:

As the first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, metformin is widely known to inhibit the metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells. This study aims to investigate metformin’s efficacy in inhibiting endocrine resistance related to genes regulating energy metabolism in both ER-positive and ER-negative breast cancer cell lines under hyperglycemic conditions.

Design and methods:

MDA-MB-361 (ER-positive, HER2-positive) and SKBR3 (ER-negative, HER2-positive) cancer cell lines were used to represent ER status. Cell viability and cell survival rate were measured using the colorimetric assay of Cell Counting Kit-8. All mRNA levels were quantified using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction preceded by reverse transcription. A P value of <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Unlike MDA-MB-361, SKBR3 were found to acquire resistance upon metformin treatment in hyperglycemic conditions. Moreover, the mRNA expression of IGF-1R and its downstream signaling, such as the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), was not affected by metformin. Meanwhile, the mRNA expression level of ribosomal S6 kinase 1 (S6K1) was upregulated, whereas forkhead box O1 (FOXO1) was downregulated after metformin treatment in hyperglycemic conditions.

Conclusions:

This preliminary study suggests that an alternative pathway of metformin resistance may exist in the absence of ERα. Therefore, relying solely on metformin may be inadequate to inhibit the aggressiveness of breast cancer cells.
Harnessing the many facets of White identity to reduce feelings of threat and improve intergroup relations
Authors: Rios Kimberly
Published: April 2024

Whiteness in the US is often conceptualized largely as the absence of a meaningful cultural identity. Research from my own lab suggests that overlooking the nuances inherent in White identity (e.g., differences between ethnic groups) can induce feelings of threat and backlash against multiculturalism among dominant group members. Based on this research, I argue that conceptualizing Whiteness as multifaceted—for example, by acknowledging not only interethnic but also religious and socioeconomic differences—may mitigate dominant group members’ threat perceptions and increase their comfort amidst growing discussions of diversity, equity, and inclusion in institutions and organizations. Further, attending to the complexities of White identity may produce more positive intergroup outcomes, such as reduced racial/ethnic prejudice and greater perceived personal contributions to diversity, and may benefit groups that are classified as “White” on demographic forms but often do not perceive themselves as such (e.g., Middle Eastern and North African Americans, Hispanic/Latino[a] Americans).
Assessment of critical parameters affecting fretting fatigue life of bridge stay cables at saddle supports
Authors: Chehrazi Ali , Walbridge Scott
Published: April 2024

Saddle systems are a popular solution for supporting cables in cable-stayed bridges. Fretting fatigue failure of cables at saddle supports is a primary design consideration for these systems. Critical parameters that affect the fretting fatigue life of the cables are the contact forces and the slip displacements at the contact points between the cables and the saddle. Determining these critical parameters is the first step in evaluating the fretting fatigue life of the cables. Wear in the contact points between the cables and the saddle can affect the load distribution in saddle systems and consequently affect these critical parameters. However, the effect of wear has not been studied in the previous works. This paper first discusses the methods proposed in the literature for evaluating contact forces and slip displacements in the contact points between a cable and a saddle. Then, a finite element model of the problem and a framework for modelling the wear are presented. Finally, fretting fatigue life is determined based on the different studied approaches. The main highlights of the current study are considering the effect of wear in the simulation and employing an enhanced FE model for slip displacement calculations. The results of the basic model without wear effects showed that the first contact point between the cable and the saddle is critical for fatigue failure. However, by incorporating wear in the model, the contact force at the first point dropped and the second contact point became critical; this is in line with the observations in large-scale fatigue tests of saddle systems.
Estimating droplet size and count distributions over a prolonged period of time following a cough in indoor environments
Authors: Jadidi Mehdi , Karataş Ahmet E , Dworkin Seth B
Published: April 2024

An empirical correlation and a set of machine learning (ML) models were developed to estimate droplet size and count distributions over an extended duration after a cough at different relative humidities (RHs), air temperatures and locations within an indoor environment. Experiments covered RHs of 20%–80% and air temperatures of 21 °C–26 °C. Droplet count distributions for 4 size bins (0.3–0.5, 0.5–1, 1–3 and 3–5 μm) were recorded for 70 min within the distance of 2 m from the cough source. Different ML models, including decision tree, random forest and artificial neural network, were trained for each size bin to predict the associated count distribution. Amongst these models, random forest showed a slight superiority in performance. The coefficient of determination for the random forest models ranged from 0.912 to 0.989, indicating robust correlations between the features and the response variables. An empirical correlation was established linking the count distribution of 0.3–0.5 μm droplets to time, RH and distance along the cough direction. Both ML models and the correlation accurately predicted the trends and the distributions, providing valuable data for validating computational simulations and informing indoor environment control systems to reduce the risk of virus transmission.
Social comparison on Instagram among millennial mothers: The relationships between envy and parental stress
Authors: Lee Jung Ah , Cho Yeonsoo , Jung Youngju , Kim Jaeyee , Sung Yongjun
Published: April 2024

Mothers are heavily engaged in social media, and mommy influencers have become key sources of information and targets for social comparison. This study investigates the psychological mechanisms by which mothers’ parental stress is affected by social comparison with mommy influencers. An online survey was conducted among South Korean millennial mothers ( N = 237). The results revealed that mothers who frequently compare themselves to mommy influencers may experience both positive and negative effects depending on the envy type. While social comparison was positively associated with both benign and malicious envy, the relationships between these two forms of envy and parenting efficacy differed. Benign envy was positively and malicious envy was negatively associated with enhanced parenting efficacy, respectively. Both envy and parenting efficacy serially mediated the relationship between mothers’ social comparison experiences with mommy influencers and parental stress. The implications of these findings are discussed along with suggestions for future research.
Curing of epoxy adhesives between thin metal foils by means of inductive heating
Authors: Ginster Vinzenz , Heym Maximilian Klaus , Beier Christoph Jürgen Anton , Epperlein Maike , Schiebahn Alexander , Reisgen Uwe
Published: April 2024

Metal foils are being widely used, from the chemical or electronics sector to household appliances. The joining of these foils by adhesive bonding is often the preferred method due to discolouring and warping under the thermal stresses of other joining methods, such as welding. However, long curing times are a disadvantage of adhesive bonding compared to welding. The use of electromagnetic induction is a promising solution for accelerated curing. This work investigates induction heating for accelerated curing of 1-C epoxy adhesives for bonding of thin nickel foils. Process parameters for rapid curing of the adhesives were determined based on reaction kinetics using differential scanning calorimetry measurements. According to those results peel test specimens were fabricated, and the peel resistance was evaluated using a 90° peel load.
Dissimilar welding between Cu–6Al–2Ni alloy and stainless steel 316L using continuous ytterbium YAG laser
Authors: Haglon Nathan , Bolot Rodolphe , Tomashchuk Iryna , Mathieu Alexandre , Lafaye Sébastien
Published: April 2024

The Cu–6Al–2Ni alloy has much higher ultimate tensile strength compared to pure copper and may potentially replace it in the dissimilar joints between titanium alloys and stainless steels. Laser welding of aluminum bronze to stainless steel has not been reported in the scientific literature, which motivated the present weldability study of Cu–6Al–2Ni/316L dissimilar joint with a continuous ytterbium Yb:YAG laser. Different laser spot offsets from the joint line were selected in order to produce the joints with various dilutions of welded materials. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) probe and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses of the melted zones were performed, along with microhardness measurements and tensile testing. The phase evolution in the obtained microstructures was evaluated using Thermo-Calc software. For the dilutions ranging from 23 to 63 at.% Cu, the melted zones showed globular microstructures with primary and secondary phase separation due to the miscibility gap existing in the Cu–Fe system. Lower Cu contents resulted in cellular γ-Fe structures with rare globular Cu-rich inclusions. The XRD analysis indicated the presence of ∼10% of ternary AlFe2Ni phase, however, it did not harm the mechanical properties of the welds. According to Thermo-Calc, this phase is formed from γ-Fe during the cooling process. Microhardness measurements did not indicate the embrittlement of the melted zones, which can be explained by the submicronic dispersion of AlFe2Ni. The welds exhibited a ductile fracture in Cu–6Al–2Ni at ultimate tensile strength of 350–420 MPa in a wide range of laser offsets, which is much higher than previously reported results for pure copper/316L joints.
Enhancing crashworthiness characteristics of modified hexagonal honeycomb structural panels through stretching and bending of ribs
Authors: Kathiresan M , Immanuel R Jose , Rajamohan Vasudevan
Published: April 2024

The effects of stretching and bending of concave, convex, and horizontal ribs on the energy absorption characteristics of modified hexagonal honeycomb structural panels are investigated under in-plane quasi-static compression loading conditions. In this regard, five hierarchical modified structural panel configurations were fabricated using polylactic acid material (PLA) via a fused filament 3D printer, ensuring uniform wall thickness in the 1.5–2 mm range. The panels included the regular hexagonal panel (RHP), regular hexagonal panel with concave rib (RHCP), regular hexagonal panel with convex rib (RHXP), regular hexagonal panel with concave and horizontal ribs (RHCRP), and regular hexagonal panel with convex and horizontal ribs (RHXRP). In-plane quasi-static compressive loading tests were conducted to analyze crush resistance characteristics, and buckling modes of the modified honeycomb panels were examined through experimental and finite element analysis procedures. The result indicates that the specific energy absorption capacity (SEA) of RHXRP is increasing significantly compared to the SEA capacity of other categories of the structures. The changes in failure modes and increased crush energy absorption characteristics of modified RHP with the introduction of concave, convex, and horizontal ribs are elaborated.
Book review: Howson, P. 2023: Let Them Eat Crypto. The Blockchain Scam That’s Ruining the World
Authors: Stuit Andrea
Published: April 2024

Howson, P. 2023: Let Them Eat Crypto. The Blockchain Scam That’s Ruining the World. Pluto Press. 289 pp. £14.99 (paper), £7.99 (e-book). ISBN: 9780745348216 (paper), 9780745348230 (e-book), 9780745348223 (pdf).
Methods and metrics to assess the accuracy of heat flux data from a spark ignition IC engine
Authors: Gopujkar Siddharth , Davis Richard , Worm Jeremy , Hansley William , Duncan Joel
Published: April 2024

The measurement of in-cylinder heat transfer can be a valuable diagnostic tool for quantifying and improving IC engine performance. Increased heat transfer out of the combustion chamber negatively impacts overall efficiency, while heat transfer from the metal to the charge can increase knock propensity. The heat flux at various locations in an engine cylinder can be measured using heat flux probes consisting of two thermocouples – a surface thermocouple exposed to the changing in-cylinder temperatures, and a far field thermocouple which has a constant temperature at steady state operating conditions. The buildup of carbon deposits on the surface thermocouple can affect the heat flux measurements and lead to errors in the data. Heat flux measurements were performed on a proprietary single-cylinder research engine with instrumented heat flux probes in the cylinder head and cylinder liner. The engine was run rich with a high PMI fuel to expedite the buildup of carbon deposits. A metric was developed based on the output of the surface thermocouple to determine the cleanliness of the heat flux probes non-intrusively. Heat flux calculations were done using the FFT method and validated using the Cook-Felderman method. An uncertainty analysis was conducted on the heat flux data to verify that the negative heat flux observed was not due to errors in the distance between the two thermocouples or the measurement of temperature. Finally, to bolster confidence in the results, heat flux measurements were made for motoring conditions with varying coolant and intake air temperatures to gauge whether the trends in the output were in the expected direction.
Institutional complexity and consumer wellbeing: Navigating the conflicting logics of religion, state, and market during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sandikci Ozlem , Tarı Kasnakoğlu Berna , Omeraki Çekirdekci Şahver
Published: April 2024

Institutional complexity arises when multiple institutional logics prescribe divergent and incompatible behaviors. Studies show that exposure to contradictory prescriptions of multiple logics may trigger identity tensions, strategic challenges, and legitimacy problems. We add to this research stream by exploring the implications of the incompatibility between religion and other logics on consumer wellbeing. Extant research reports a generally positive effect of religion on wellbeing but limits the analytical attention to the individual effects of religiosity. Viewing religion as part of an inter-institutional system, we seek to understand why religion and other institutional logics might come into a conflictual relationship with each other and destabilize wellbeing. We find that critical events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, change the relative centrality of logics and prompt individuals to engage in incompatible behaviors. We also discuss how consumers manage the sudden and unexpected institutional complexity they face and seek to restore their wellbeing.
The Uptake and Measurement of Alternative Approaches to Domestic Violence Intervention Programs: A Scoping Review
Authors: Campbell Julia K. , Nicolla Sydney , Weissman Deborah M. , Moracco Kathryn E.
Published: April 2024

This scoping review explores the breadth and depth to which Domestic Violence Intervention Programs (DVIPs) in the United States and globally: (a) incorporate components that address the relationship between intimate partner violence (IPV) and social injustice, racism, economic inequality, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs); (b) use restorative (RJ)/transformative justice (TJ) practices, individualized case management, partnerships with social justice actors, and strengths-based parenting training in current programming; and (c) measure effectiveness. In 2021, we searched 12 academic databases using a combination of search terms and Medical Subject Headings. In all, 27 articles that discussed at least one key concept relative to DVIP curricula were included in the final review. Findings suggest that very few DVIPs address ACEs and/or the relationship between structural violence, social inequality, and IPV perpetration. Even fewer programs use restorative practices including RJ or TJ. Furthermore, DVIPs use inconsistent methods and measures to evaluate effectiveness. To respond to IPV perpetration more effectively and create lasting change, DVIPs must adopt evidence-informed approaches that prioritize social and structural determinants of violence, trauma-informed care, and restoration.
Community Health Builders Program: A Collaborative Model Connecting National Health Thought Leaders With Community-Level Champions
Authors: Animashaun Linda A. , Greener Judith R. , Seyfried Jessica , Botwe Evelyn
Published: April 2024

Make Well Known Foundation (MWKF), a nonprofit organization focused on supporting the health of minoritized and underserved populations, piloted the Community Health Builders (CHB) program. This connected MKWF Steering Committee members—national thought leaders in health—with leaders of underserved populations in Greensboro, NC, with the goal of translating research into practice. Steering Committee members provided education, instruction, and resources to community leaders that could then be transferred to area residents to cultivate better health. A roundtable meeting was first organized to allow community leaders to share insights into the highest priority needs of Greensboro’s Black residents. Four topics resulted that became the focus of the training modules (called “accelerator forums”) that formed the core of the CHB program. Each accelerator forum was led by Steering Committee members and local-level topic experts to educate and share resources with community leaders. The program concluded with a local health and resource fair, which exposed Greensboro residents to the resources shared during CHB program trainings. Overall, the CHB program pilot demonstrated success in the collaborative engagement between national- and community-level leaders based on measures of increased knowledge and self-efficacy in supporting Greensboro residents in the four accelerator forum topics. In a final debrief session, CHB participants shared their perspective that the progress achieved in the community needed to be sustained through continued national- and community-level collaboration and ongoing community training. This key insight and the need for sustained engagement will be incorporated into all future programs.
Endovascular Repair Blunt Thoracic Aortic Injury in Adolescent: A Case Series
Authors: Deng Zhihe , Zhong Yaoyang , Zou Liping , Bi Guoshan , Chen Jie , Dai Xianpeng , Hu Jun , Xiong Guozuo , Deng Liming
Published: April 2024

Background:

Blunt traumatic aortic injury (BTAI) is a rare occurrence in adolescents, yet it is associated with a high mortality rate necessitating immediate treatment. Although endovascular repair has become the preferred treatment for such injuries in adults, its effectiveness in adolescents remains uncertain.

Case summary:

Blunt traumatic aortic injury typically presents with concomitant injuries to other organs and carries a high perioperative mortality rate with operative repair (OR). In this report, we describe the treatment of 3 clinical cases of BTAI in adolescents using thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). These cases contribute pertinent evidence supporting the efficacy of intravascular repair for BTAI.

Conclusion:

Operative repair (OR) remains the gold standard for treating BTAI in adolescents. Nevertheless, TEVAR therapy presents a viable alternative for patients with multiple injuries in whom anticoagulation is contraindicated. Further long-term observation is necessary to assess the lasting effects of TEVAR therapy.

Clinical Impact

This study has provided insights into endovascular repair for adolescent BTAT, offering clinicians significant reference material for choosing treatment strategies for adolescent BTAT. The study aims to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of endovascular repair treatments in a series of clinical cases involving adolescent BTAI.
Effects of Reishimmune-S, a Fungal Immunomodulatory Peptide Supplement, on the Quality of Life and Circulating Natural Killer Cell Profiles of Patients With Early Breast Cancer Receiving Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy
Authors: Su Ying-Wen , Huang Wen-Yu , Lin Sheng-Hsiang , Yang Po-Sheng
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

To evaluate the effects of Reishimmune-S, a fungal immunomodulatory peptide, on the quality of life (QoL) and natural killer (NK) cell subpopulations in patients receiving adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET) for breast cancer (BC).

Methods:

Patients who received adjuvant ET for stage I-III hormone receptor-positive BC without active infection were enrolled in this prospective pilot study. Reishimmune-S was administered sublingually daily for 6 months. QoL scores, circulating immune cell levels, including lymphocyte/NK cell subpopulations, and plasma levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured at baseline and every 4 weeks. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effect regression models.

Results:

Nineteen participants were included in the analyses. One patient with underlying asthma did not complete the study owing to the occurrence of skin rashes 15 days after the initiation of Reishimmune-S. No other adverse events were reported. Reishimmune-S supplementation significantly improved the cognitive function at 3 months and significantly decreased the fatigue and insomnia levels at 3 and 6 months, respectively. There was no significant change in the global health/QoL score between baseline and week 4 of treatment. The proportion of CD19+ lymphocytes was significantly higher at 3 and 6 months, and that of NKG2A+ and NKp30+ NK cells was significantly lower at 6 months than at baseline. In addition, fatigue positively correlated with the proportion of NKp30+ NK cells (β ± standard error: 24.48 ± 8.75, P = .007 in the mixed-effect model).

Conclusions:

Short-term supplementation with Reishimmune-S affected the circulating immune cell composition and exerted positive effects on cognitive function, fatigue, and insomnia in patients with BC undergoing adjuvant ET, providing a potential approach for the management of treatment-related adverse reactions in this patient population.
Aspirin Does Not Inhibit Platelet-Rich Plasma Releasate Efficacy in a Murine Model of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy
Authors: Magruder Matthew L. , Caughey Sarah , Carballo Camila , Eliasberg Claire D. , Liu Yulei , Havasy Janice , Piacentini Alex , Rodeo Scott
Published: April 2024

Background:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been shown to be a promising treatment for subacromial impingement, and although its interaction with aspirin (ASA) is controversial, many providers ask patients to stop non–steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use before PRP administration.

Purpose:

This studied aimed to identify the effect of PRP in a murine model of subacromial impingement and to explore the effect of ASA on PRP treatment.

Methods:

A murine model of subacromial impingement was used, incorporating 48 wild-type C57BL/6 mice. After impingement surgery, mice received either human PRP activated via calcium chloride or saline injected into the subacromial space. The mice received either drinking water with ASA or standard drinking water, creating 4 groups: saline injection, saline injection + ASA, PRP injection, and PRP injection + ASA. All injections occurred at 3 weeks after impingement surgery, and mice were evaluated at 6 weeks. Each mouse underwent gait analysis, biomechanical analysis (N = 10 shoulders), histological analysis (N = 6), and gene expression analysis (N = 8).

Results:

Biomechanical testing showed increased load to failure in the PRP group compared to the ASA group, and increased stiffness in PRP vs saline, PRP vs ASA, and PRP vs ASA + PRP. Gene expression analysis identified 17 downregulated genes between the ASA + PRP and saline groups. Eight of these differentially expressed genes contribute to collagen biosynthesis and modification, 4 to extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, and 4 to ECM degradation.

Conclusions:

In this preliminary analysis, PRP injections in a murine model of subacromial impingement demonstrated mixed effects on tendon quality and pain, and ASA did not have a consistent effect on the response to PRP.
The impact of sodium periodate oxidation and alginate coating on the capillarity of jute fabric
Authors: Ivanovska Aleksandra , Milošević Marija , Lađarević Jelena , Tarbuk Anita , Svirčev Zorica , Kostić Mirjana
Published: April 2024

This study explores the impact of sodium periodate oxidation time (30 min, 60 min, or 120 min) and alginate coating on the capillarity of jute fabrics. Raw jute fabric exhibits a rapid increase in capillary rise height ( h) over time, reaching 72 mm at 1200 s. Fabrics oxidized for 30, 60, and 120 min show significantly lower h values of 19, 18, and 28 mm at 1200 s, respectively, which can be ascribed to the oxidation process itself. Precisely, oxidation-induced conversion of hydroxyl groups of cellulose (the main constituent of jute fiber) to aldehyde groups contributed to the fabric reduced affinity for water, hence negatively affecting its capillarity. Approximately 47% and 55% lower h values of fabrics oxidized for 30 and 60 min compared to that oxidized for 120 min can be explained by their lower weight loss after oxidation as well as less pronounced liberation of elementary fibers. Oxidized fabrics characterized by low capillarity can be used for the manufacturing of packaging materials, outdoor gear, and protective covers for crops. To expand jute fabric applications in biocarpet engineering, that is, to obtain polysaccharide-based supports, raw and oxidized jute fabrics were treated with a 1% sodium alginate solution. At 1200 s, oxidized fabrics coated with alginate exhibited 4.3–5.8 times higher h values compared to solely oxidized counterparts. The diffusion coefficients of oxidized fabrics coated with alginate increase up to 35% with prolonged oxidation, emphasizing the oxidation impact on alginate binding.
Fubuki XF Long Sheath guide catheter use in neuroendovascular procedures: Institutional experience in 60 cases
Authors: Saei Hamzah M , Miller Samantha E , Pope Holly M , Hassan Ameer E
Published: April 2024

Background

Endovascular treatment devices require compatible guide catheters to navigate complex vessels and anatomy. The Fubuki XF Long Sheath guide catheter (Fubuki XF) was developed with a 0.090-inch internal diameter with hydrophilic coating, an atraumatic rounded tip, and enhanced trackability and support with gradual shaft transition zones.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a prospectively maintained database of neuroendovascular patients treated using Fubuki XF at our center (July 2022─May 2023). Baseline/procedural characteristics were collected. Outcomes of interest included technical success (procedure completion with Fubuki XF without alternative guide catheter use) and peri-procedural complications.

Results

This study included 60 patients (43.3% [26/60] female; mean age: 69.6 ± 9.7) presenting with stenosis (45.0% [27/60]), unruptured aneurysms (31.7% [19/60]), ruptured aneurysm (1.7% [1/60]), arteriovenous fistula (5.0% [3/60]), arteriovenous malformation (3.3% [2/60]), chronic subdural hematoma (3.3% [2/60]), stroke/emboli (6.7% [4/60]), vasospasm (1.7% [1/60]), or carotid web (5.0% [1/60]). Fubuki XF was used to deliver endovascular treatment devices for stenting (43.3% [26/60]), flow diversion (23.3% [14/60]), embolization (11.7% [7/60]), coiling (10.0% [6/60]), balloon angioplasty (10.0% [6/60]), and mechanical thrombectomy (1.7% [1/60]). The Fubuki XF tip was placed in the internal carotid artery in 38.3% (23/60) of cases. Technical success was achieved in all cases. One V1 non-flow-limiting dissection (not related to Fubuki XF) and one failed closure occurred (1.7% [1/60] each). No iatrogenic strokes or intraprocedural ruptures occurred.

Conclusion

We used Fubuki XF to safely and effectively deliver a variety of compatible neuroendovascular devices. Fubuki XF was stable in all cases and locations, and there were no device-related complications or dissections.
Verging war between two atomic nations: Delineating coverage of India–Pakistan water dispute in global press
Authors: Mahmood Tahir , C. Ogadimma Emenyeonu , Raza Syed Hassan , Yousaf Muhammad , Khan Sanan Waheed
Published: April 2024

Arguably, journalistic practices should outline conflict reporting with a balanced approach to elicit non-violent responses. To date, no study has unfolded the coverage of the Indo-Pak potential war fueling “water dispute” by underpinning the theoretical notion of war and peace journalistic practices. Thus, drawing an analogy to war and peace journalism model, this article examines the media framing of the India–Pakistan water dispute in the USA, Chinese, Indian, and Pakistani newspapers. The study used a content analysis method to examine the use of framing techniques in newspapers. Findings supported that the global press' framing of the water dispute between India and Pakistan was dominated by war frames compared to peace frames. The Indian press used more war frames among the four countries while covering water disputes between rival nuclear neighbors. Moreover, it was found that the USA and Chinese press gave negligible coverage. The implications of the findings are discussed.
Long-term safety of tenapanor in people with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation from the T3MPO-3 study: plain language summary of publication
Authors: Lembo Anthony J. , Edelstein Susan , Rosenbaum David P. , Rooker Ceciel , Roberts Jeffrey D. , Chey William D.
Published: April 2024

This document provides a short summary of the T3MPO-3 study, which was published in Neurogastroenterology and Motility in September 2023. At the end of this summary, there are links to websites where you can find more information about this study.

Tenapanor (IBSRELA®) is a newly available medicine in the United States. It is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) in people aged 18 years and older. In 2 large clinical trials, tenapanor was shown to improve the symptoms of IBS-C. People with IBS-C often need to take long-term medicines to keep their symptoms under control. As a result, this study, called T3MPO-3, was undertaken to investigate whether there are any possible side effects associated with the long-term use of tenapanor in adults with IBS-C. There were 312 people who had taken part in either of the original 2 trials and took part in this study, with 90 receiving tenapanor for at least 1 year. Loose or watery stool (diarrhea) was the most common side effect, and most cases were mild or moderate. No people died in any of these studies.
Navigating shallow waters: Symbolic violence and its implications for education for sustainable development in neoliberal Japan
Authors: Smith Michael D , Past Travis Hunter
Published: April 2024

In the face of ongoing ecological, economic, and social concerns, the UN’s sustainable development framework emerges as a map for securing a brighter tomorrow. Yet, against this backdrop, the neoliberal values of deregulation, open marketisation, and individualisation constrain sustainable development outcomes. Building on previous research conducted in Japan, a nation positioned at the forefront of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), this ‘think piece’ seeks to offer a critical examination of its implementation and positionality within Japan’s education system, specifically the imbalance between public and private educational providers. Drawing on Bourdieu’s symbolic violence, we seek to shed light on the social norms (in this case, skill-based human capital development) replicated through education, the long-standing power structures reinforcing them, and finally, the gap between the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’ in terms of access to attaining covetable neoliberal skills. The goal of this piece is not to reject the altruistic good of ESD. On the contrary, through this analysis, we hope to generate greater awareness by engendering a more meaningful and transformative ESD aligning with sustainability as a shared public good. Consequently, we call for more equitable ESD available to all students, regardless of educational setting.
What Should a Breastfeeding Place in Public Spaces Be Like? A Qualitative Study on Women’s Experiences
Authors: Yeşildere Sağlam Havva , Reyhan Feyza Aktaş , Dağlı Elif
Published: April 2024

Background:

Mothers need a place in public spaces where they can comfortably breastfeed and care for their babies. The availability and design features of these places are critical for meeting mothers’ safety and comfort needs while they are breastfeeding.

Aim:

This study was conducted to examine mothers’ experiences with breastfeeding places in public spaces.

Methods:

This study, which was planned as a phenomenological research, one of qualitative research designs, was conducted with mothers ( n = 18) with breastfeeding experience in public places. Data were collected through in-depth interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire developed by the researchers. The thematic analysis method was employed to evaluate the data.

Results:

Study findings were examined under two main themes and 12 subthemes. Getting to the breastfeeding place was actually enough for many of the participants. Women who could not breastfeed for any reason in breastfeeding places stated that they came up with some solutions, such as breastfeeding in the car, feeding with formula, and not taking the baby with them. Participants’ basic expectations about the breastfeeding place were that it met cleanliness, hygiene, privacy, and ventilation conditions.

Conclusions:

It was found that women who tended to spend more time in public spaces recently encountered similar problems during the breastfeeding process. Breastfeeding environments should meet minimum standards such as cleanliness and privacy as well as having the necessary comfort, aesthetics, and decoration features.
The Impact of Design Factors on User Behavior in a Virtual Hospital Room to Explore Fall Prevention Strategies
Authors: Seddighi Nooshin , Chen Ying-Ching , Merryweather Andrew S. , Foreman K. Bo , Kuntz Alan , Battaglia Edoardo , Zhang Haohan , Taylor Ellen , Wong Bob , Fino Peter C.
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

Falls in hospitals pose a significant safety risk, leading to injuries, prolonged hospitalization, and lasting complications. This study explores the potential of augmented reality (AR) technology in healthcare facility design to mitigate fall risk.

Background:

Few studies have investigated the impact of hospital room layouts on falls due to the high cost of building physical prototypes. This study introduces an innovative approach using AR technology to advance methods for healthcare facility design efficiently.

Methods:

Ten healthy participants enrolled in this study to examine different hospital room designs in AR. Factors of interest included room configuration, door type, exit side of the bed, toilet placement, and the presence of IV equipment. AR trackers captured trajectories of the body as participants navigated through these AR hospital layouts, providing insights into user behavior and preferences.

Results:

Door type influenced the degree of backward and sideways movement, with the presence of an IV pole intensifying the interaction between door and room type, leading to increased sideways and backward motion. Participants displayed varying patterns of backward and sideways travel depending on the specific room configurations they encountered.

Conclusions:

AR can be an efficient and cost-effective method to modify room configurations to identify important design factors before conducting physical testing. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the effect of environmental factors on movement patterns in simulated hospital rooms. These results highlight the importance of considering environmental factors, such as the type of door and bathroom location, when designing healthcare facilities.
Feedback Loops: Future Present Becomings-With Critical Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Webb Javania M. , Cheek Julianne , Kuntz Aaron A. , Cannella Gaile S.
Published: April 2024

The following texts, by three critical session leaders, provide perhaps a conclusion to the special issue articles, but more importantly, may serve as “feedback loops” for becomings-with future present critical qualitative inquiries, for more just becomings that we have not thought. We become-with a new scholar who shares the important issues of her life as a beginning researcher, and we become-with two more senior researchers who share their critical experiences along with possibilities for reconceptualizing critical work as ethical ontologies.
Quo vadis Europa—balancing between efficiency and guarantees in criminal proceedings using the example of EU production and preservation orders
Authors: Kiejnich-Kruk Karolina
Published: April 2024

European Union (EU) legislative actions in the area of criminal proceedings focus on the improvement of the safeguards and procedural guarantees of suspects and the accused (e.g., Roadmap directives) as well as on enhancing the efficiency of criminal proceedings with the aim of effective prosecution and crime prevention. The newest examples of the latter are EU Production and Preservation Orders in criminal matters (EPOs). The Author analyses the relation between the EU safeguards and the fundamental rights of the suspects and the accused and the EPO regulation. The Author shows incoherences that occur in this field, especially regarding the right to an effective remedy and the right to information, proposing amendments in these fields.
Advances in HoLEP technology and technique – Current state of play
Authors: Dean Nicholas S , Thiruchelvam Jega , Guo Jenny N , Durrant Jordan , Krambeck Amy E , Aho Tevita F
Published: April 2024

Background:

Until recently, Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) utilisation has been limited despite its perceived benefits over alternative surgical and minimally invasive benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treatments.

Objective:

The purpose of this review is to highlight our experience with recent advances in laser and morcellator technologies that have made it easier for urologists to consistently offer HoLEP as a safe, efficient, and effective in an ambulatory (day surgery) setting.

Methods:

Our narrative review focused on contemporary studies published within the last five years.

Conclusions:

Technological advances coupled with increasing availability of training opportunities has and will continue to improve patients’ accessibility to the gold standard in BPH surgical treatment. Furthermore, we will describe refinements in laser enucleation techniques that have improved procedural efficiencies, rates of temporary post-operative urinary incontinence, and preservation of sexual function. The effects of technical modifications on functional and durability outcomes are to be seen in further prospective studies.

Level of Evidence:

Level 7 (Expert Opinion)
Differences in Antihypertensive Medication Prescription Profiles Between 2009 and 2021: A Retrospective Cohort Study of CARTaGENE
Authors: Ivensky Victoria , Zonga Pitchou , Dallaire Gabriel , Desbiens Louis-Charles , Nadeau-Fredette Annie-Claire , Rousseau Guy , Goupil Rémi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Although blood pressure (BP) control is critical to prevent cardiovascular diseases, hypertension control rates in Canada are in decline.

Objective:

To assess this issue, we sought to evaluate the differences in antihypertensive medication prescription profiles in the province of Quebec between 2009 and 2021.

Design:

This is a retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

We used data from the CARTaGENE population–based cohort linked to administrative health databases.

Patients:

Participants with any drug claim in the 6 months prior to the end of follow-up were included.

Measurements:

Guideline-recommended antihypertensive drug prescription profiles were assessed at the time of enrollment (2009-2010) and end of follow-up (March 2021).

Methods:

Prescriptions practices from the 2 time periods were compared using Pearson’s chi-square tests. A sensitivity analysis was performed by excluding participants in which antihypertensive drugs may not have been prescribed solely to treat hypertension (presence of atrial fibrillation/flutter, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, or migraines documented prior to or during follow-up).

Results:

Of 8447 participants included in the study, 31.4% and 51.3% filled prescriptions for antihypertensive drugs at the beginning and end of follow-up. In both study periods, guideline-recommended monotherapy was applied in most participants with hypertension (77.9% vs 79.5%, P = .3), whereas optimal 2 and 3-drug combinations were used less frequently (62.0% vs 61.4%, P = .77, 51.9% vs 46.7%, P = .066, respectively). Only the use of long-acting thiazide-like diuretics (9.5% vs 27.7%, P < .001) and spironolactone as a fourth-line agent (8.3% vs 15.9%, P = .054) increased with time but nonetheless remained infrequent. Results were similar in the sensitivity analysis.

Limitations:

Specific indication of the prescribed antihypertensive medications and follow-up BP data was not available.

Conclusions:

Application of hypertension guidelines for the choice of antihypertensive drugs remains suboptimal, highlighting the need for education initiatives. This may be an important step to raise BP control rates in Canada.
Comparative effectiveness of interventions on promoting physical activity in older adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Wu Shuang , Li Guangkai , Shi Beibei , Ge Hongli , Chen Si , Zhang Xianliang , He Qiang
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite the well-established health benefits of physical activity, a large population of older adults still maintain sedentary life style or physical inactivity. This network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to compare the effectiveness of wearable activity tracker-based intervention (WAT), electronic and mobile health intervention (E&MH), structured exercise program intervention (SEP), financial incentive intervention (FI) on promoting physical activity and reducing sedentary time in older adults.

Methods

The systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature search of PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EMbase, Cochrane Library, Scopus were searched from inception to December 10th 2022. The randomized controlled trials (RCT) were included. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, risk of bias and certainty of evidence assessment. The effect measures were standard mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) in daily steps, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary time.

Results

A total of 69 studies with 14,120 participants were included in the NMA. Among these included studies, the results of daily steps, MVPA and sedentary time was reported by 55, 25 and 15 studies, respectively. The NMA consistency model analysis suggested that the following interventions had the highest probability (surface under the cumulative ranking, SUCRA) of being the best when compared with control: FI + WAT for daily steps (SUCRA = 96.6%; SMD = 1.32, 95% CI:0.77, 1.86), WAT + E&MH + SEP for MVPA (SUCRA = 91.2%; SMD = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.36, 1.52) and WAT + E&MH + SEP for sedentary time (SUCRA = 80.3%; SMD = −0.50, 95% CI: −0.87, −0.14). The quality of the evidences of daily steps, MVPA and sedentary time was evaluated by very low, very low and low, respectively.

Conclusions

In this NMA, there's low quality evidence that financial incentive combined with wearable activity tracker is the most effective intervention for increasing daily steps of older adults, wearable activity tracker combined with electronic and mobile health and structured exercise program is the most effective intervention to help older adults to increase MVPA and reduce sedentary time.