bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cradle of the Makonde Nation of Mozambique Torn between Wars of Wealth
Authors: Mkuti Sky L.
Published: August 2023

The cradle of the Makonde Nation of Mozambique is historically rich with unmatched artefacts that convey experienced socio-political struggles and unique heritage. The Makonde nation fought heroic wars that led to the end of imperialism as well as colonialism, and ultimately led to the liberation of Mozambique in 1975 from Portugal. The post-independent era, however, was marred by a 16-year-long civil war that left socio-political and economic bruises on the entire country and to a certain extent destabilised the Southern African Development Community (SADC). In 1992, a civil war erupted, and the attainment of peace became elusive. The unresolved socio-economic and political attrition between the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) and the opposition Mozambican National Resistance (RENAMO) contributed to the internal political crisis which compounded inequalities and socio-economic imbalances. Subsequently, opportunist transnational actors such as Al-Shabaab exploited these conditions in the frail yet minerally wealthy region of Cabo Delgado. The proceeding unfolding of events reveals the implications of unresolved past conflicts potentially escalating into complex conflicts – terrorism. Reflecting on past struggles and their influence on present conflicts, a qualitative methodology employing a desktop approach with documental and historical data analysis to determine how the prospects for full-scale peace, economic development, and sustainable security and stability can be attained. The question is: to what extent do the drivers of resource conflict contribute to radicalism and violent extremism as is the case of Cabo Delgado, in Mozambique? This paper argues that apart from other regional dimensions such as border proximity with terror-prone states such as Tanzania, the ill-management of natural resources and ambiguous approaches to the resolution of internal conflicts create conditions for terrorism in Cabo Delgado. The interdependence and cooperation perspective presents opportunities where collective implementation of robust counterterror strategic plans may effectively redress the associated resource conflict challenges in Mozambique.
Two new species of the genus Metapocyrtus Heller, 1912 from the islands of Homonhon and Mindanao, Philippines, with taxonomic notes (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Entiminae, Pachyrynchini)
Authors: CABRAS ANALYN A. , MAINDA TOBIAS
Published: August 2023

Two new species of the genus Metapocyrtus Heller, 1912 from the islands of Homonhon and Mindanao: Metapocyrtus (Sclerocyrtus) rolandmuelleri Cabras and Mainda sp. nov. and Metapocyrtus (Sclerocyrtus) dabaw Cabras and Mainda sp. nov. are described and illustrated in this paper. It is also proposed to transfer a species from the subgenus Artapocyrtus Heller, 1912 to Sclerocyrtus Heller, 1912: Metapocyrtus (Sclerocyrtus) latinasus Heller, 1925.
Association of Frailty With Post-Operative Outcomes of Older Adults Undergoing Elective Ostomy Reversal
Authors: Braschi Caitlyn , Salzman Garrett A. , Russell Marcia M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Ostomy reversal is a common surgical procedure; however, it is not without associated risks. Patient selection for this elective procedure is therefore critically important. Elderly patients represent a growing population and a substantial proportion of patients that present for evaluation after ostomy creation due to the most common etiologies. This study aims to assess the impact of frailty on the outcomes of ostomy reversal among older adults.

Methods

Patients ≥65 years who underwent ostomy reversal from 2015 to 2019 were identified in the NSQIP database. Frailty was calculated using the 5-item Modified Frailty Index (MFI). Multivariate regression was performed to evaluate the association of frailty with post-operative 30-day mortality, 30-day serious complications, discharge to a facility, and 30-day readmission.

Results

A total of 13,053 patients were included, of which 18.7% were frail (MFI ≥ 2). Patients who underwent colostomy reversal had higher rates of serious complications ( P < .0001) and discharge to facility ( P < .0001) compared to other reversals. In multivariate analysis, frailty was associated with increased odds of serious complications (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.31-1.77), discharge to facility (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.79-2.57), and readmission (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.04-1.46), but not mortality. Frail patients had predicted probabilities 1.4 times higher for serious complications and 1.7-2.2 times greater for discharge to facility than non-frail patients.

Conclusions

Among older adults undergoing elective ostomy reversal, frailty is independently associated with increased odds of 30-day serious complications, discharge to facility, and 30-day readmission. As a potentially modifiable risk factor, identification of frailty offers the opportunity for shared decision-making and prehabilitation.
Bureaucratic policy work and analytical capacities in central administrations in Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain: The results of a comparative survey
Authors: Capano Giliberto , Cavalieri Alice , Pritoni Andrea
Published: August 2023

Policy analytical capacity is a pivotal source of good governance. Although this capacity can be acquired by decision makers in various ways, it is clear that the internal stock of analytical capacity is strategic in terms of supporting policymaking. This stock can be concentrated in specific types of organisational roles (like policy professionals), but it can also be considered a constitutive component of ordinary bureaucratic work. This paper adopts this latter perspective to analyse the characteristics in terms of policy work and analytical capacities of high-level bureaucrats of the central administrations of the Old Southern Four: Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain. The data were collected through a large online survey involving more than 1000 high civil servants. The empirical evidence offered shows the high differentiation in terms of policy work and analytical capacities that characterise the four analysed central bureaucracies and confirms that, despite the expected similarities among the four countries, differences are striking and concern almost all dimensions of analysis. Moreover, Spain has a higher stock of policy analytical capacities. Thus, adopting a policy work perspective can be a fruitful lens for analysing whether and how administrative reforms are capable of penetrating the micro dimensions of administrative behaviour.

Points for practitioners

The paper offers the first comparative analysis of the policy work and the analytical capacities of the central administration in Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain. The results show that, despite the many similarities among the four countries, there are significant differences in terms of ways of working and the held analytical capacities of the high level servants. The offered data show a specific map of policy analytical skills that can be used as a point of departure for designing improvements in high civil servants’ training.
The contribution of Luphurise Mawere’s “Things to do so you are able to succeed financially” to African prosperity theology
Authors: Davis Tamie
Published: August 2023

Recent scholarship on prosperity theology in Africa has recognized that there has been a tendency to homogenize and flatten its richness and diversity and that more work is needed to understand the nuances of prosperity theology in its local manifestations. This article explores a podcast series produced by Tanzanian Luphurise Mawere from her home at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. First, it outlines the theology of the podcast and highlights the creation mandate as the dominant feature of it. Second, it locates Mawere’s theology in the mosaic of prosperity theologies in Africa, arguing that her theology ought to be viewed as a legitimate part of prosperity theology in Africa, despite significant differences with other prosperity theologies. Finally, it considers the contribution of Mawere’s theology to African prosperity theology and the study of it, and suggests how it might be applied by mission practitioners.
After zombies: Notes on labor union and municipal renewal
Authors: Cahen Claire
Published: August 2023

If the new neoliberalism leans ever more into failure and ‘dead’ economic ideas, it also relies on the estrangement and exhaustion of its subjects, who have been depleted in the wreckage of protracted austerity; crisis as stasis. Yet, even as ‘zombie neoliberalism’ threatens to make zombies of us, teacher unionists across the U.S. organize for a more vibrant future. Turning to the case of Newark, NJ, this article shows how teachers have embraced a strategy not of bypassing or abolishing the institutions most hollowed out by neoliberal market rule but of taking these institutions over and imagining them anew. To illustrate, I show how teachers scale up campaigns from the teachers’ union to the classroom to the city, insisting each time that renewal and reckoning can transform these spaces into something more liberatory. Yet, teachers also encounter a depth of institutional inertia, detachment, and repression for which they are unprepared. The article argues that the zombie conjuncture requires an oppositional strategy of its own, one attuned to the numbing effects of crisis and the difficulties of working with the tools at hand, which have been thoroughly dulled.
“It’s a Feeling That Makes You do Anything”: Youth’ Narratives of Love and Experiences of Victimization in Their Romantic Relationships
Authors: Couture Stéphanie , Lachapelle Maude , Fernet Mylène , Hébert Martine
Published: August 2023

Youth narratives of love are shaped by romantic experiences through observation of others’ romantic relationships, and by media commonly conveying romantic beliefs. Since past reports have linked romantic beliefs to dating violence (DV), studies need to explore narratives of love by youth who report DV victimization experiences to identify specific targets to address in DV prevention programs. This qualitative study explored the narratives of love by heterosexual youth and documented specific features according to their DV victimization experiences. Directed content analysis guided the analyses of semi-structured interviews of 82 participants aged 15 to 24 years ( M = 19.4; SD = 2.1). Most participants were cisgender females (75.6%) born in Canada to Canadian-born parents (54.6%). Four polarized narratives of love emerged: (1) Growing love versus love at first sight, (2) Completive versus fusional love, (3) Lucid versus triumphant love, and (4) Ongoing versus eternal love. Both participants who reported experiencing DV victimization, and those who did not, expressed non-romantic and romantic beliefs, although they used different wording to convey similar beliefs in their narratives. These findings underscore the importance of challenging the dominant romantic beliefs that may place youth at risk of experiencing DV and therefore contribute to DV prevention.
Influence of Childhood Psychological Maltreatment on Peer Attachment Among Chinese Adolescents: The Mediation Effects of Emotion Regulation Strategies
Authors: Yu Tengxu , Hu Jinsheng , Zhang Wei , Zhang Longfei , Zhao Jiayin
Published: August 2023

The formation of peer attachment is vitally important for the mental health of adolescents. Additionally, converging evidences show that childhood emotional trauma leads to poor peer attachment during adolescence. However, little is known about the underlying mechanism accounting for the link between early emotional trauma and adolescent peer attachment. Therefore, the present study is intended to examine the relationship between childhood psychological maltreatment (CPM) and peer attachment among Chinese adolescents and reveal its underlying mechanism. In total, we collected data from 670 adolescents (36.5% males and 63.5% females, Mage = 16.44 years, SD = 0.78) attending two Chinese high schools. These participants completed measurement scales for CPM (emotional abuse and neglect), peer attachment, and emotion regulation strategies, including cognitive reappraisal (CR) and expressive suppression (ES). The multiple mediation models showed that emotional neglect negatively predicted adolescent peer attachment but that emotional abuse did not. Furthermore, the two emotion regulation strategies, CR and ES, completely mediated the relationship between emotional abuse and peer attachment and partially mediated the relationship between emotional neglect and peer attachment. These findings extend the existing studies on adolescent peer attachment and elucidate how childhood emotional trauma negatively influences adolescent peer attachment. In addition, the present results provide implications for improving the peer attachment of adolescents. On one hand, appropriate family intervention should be implemented to reduce CPM. On the other hand, schools can focus on improving the peer attachment of adolescents by enhancing their emotion regulation. Specifically, adolescents should be taught how to use adaptive strategies, such as CR, to regulate negative emotions.
A new approach for nonlinear transient dynamic analysis of micro SMA beam considering size effect and instantaneous phase transformation
Authors: Aghababaiyan Mohammad Reza , Botshekanan Dehkordi Mohsen , Fallah Ahmad
Published: August 2023

Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) have attracted lots of attraction in the recent years due to their unique characteristics. However, studies in the field of behavior of SMAs at micro scale is not enough and more research is required. The present paper presents a nonlinear dynamic solution for a micro made of NiFeGa SMA, located on a viscoelastic foundation. The recommended approach takes into account instantaneous variations of martensite volume fraction and size effect which are the main novelties of the present study. In this regard, the formulation proposed by Hernandez and Lagoudas is used to capture and model the size effect of the SMAs. The governing differential equations obtained for Euler-Bernoulli micro beam using the Hamilton’s principle, considering the Von-Karman nonlinear strain. The nonlinear equation of motion is solved applying the semi-exact method. In this study, the return mapping convex cutting plane is used, in order to overcome the material nonlinearity of the problem. The obtained results are compared with the reference papers which shows the accuracy of the present model. Results show that with considering the size effect, the loss factor of vibration will increase by increasing the thickness of the micro SMA beam. While regardless of the size effect, this factor remains almost constant. The reason for this phenomenon is that when size effect is taken into account, the thermodynamic properties and critical stresses of phase transformation will change with resizing the SMA. Outputs also show that by increasing the damping coefficient and decreasing the stiffness of foundation, more energy is wasted in the vibration of the micro SMA beam. In addition, it was observed that micro beams with lower thicknesses are more sensitive to foundation characteristics meanwhile the loss factor of vibration with lesser thicknesses changes more by changing the foundation stiffness and damping coefficients.
Trajectory planning approach for autonomous electric bus in dynamic environment
Authors: Waleed Ahmed , Hammad Sherif , Abdelaziz Mohamed , Maged Shady A
Published: August 2023

Path planning is a challenging task to achieve vehicle autonomy, and it becomes even more difficult in handling dynamic situations and big vehicle sizes. Its performance is affected by the accuracy of mapping and vehicle localization. Many path planning algorithms have been developed to address static environments, however, these do not accurately reflect real-world scenarios which are dynamic in nature. This paper introduces a new planning architecture consisting of a global planner that plans a path in an occupancy grid map generated using LIDAR and odometry data. The local planner uses this global plan and plans a local plan on a section of the map that takes into consideration dynamic obstacles. Both the local and global plans are used to calculate the optimum velocity profile, providing a feasible and comfortable trajectory. The trajectory is then fed to a predictive Stanley controller, and both the calculated steering angle and the optimum velocity are achieved by low-level controllers. The performance of the proposed architecture was tested on a golf bus in a constrained environment and compared to different manual driving attitudes using a key performance indicator. The results of the proposed architecture show that it has a better KPI, with an average of 37% better than manual driving.
Entropy generation effects with thermal radiation on MHD Casson fluid flow in porous micro-annulus
Authors: Mehdi Intizar , Abbas Zaheer , Hasnain Jafar
Published: August 2023

The study of entropy generation analysis on natural convection non-Newtonian (Casson) fluid flow between two concentric cylinders/tubes is evaluated in this article. The influence of the external magnetic field normal to the flow direction with thermal radiation is analyzed on the porous surface of cylinders under the condition of Casson velocity slip and thermal jumps. The non-dimensional momentum equation of Casson fluid (CF) is solved analytically by using a modified Bessel equation containing rational number order of first and second kinds, and the energy equation is solved by using the Cauchy-Euler equation. This analysis aims to find out the loss of energy of CF flow within two cylinders and present the combinations of some parameters through which it can be minimized. Volume flow rate, entropy heat generation and irreversibility parameter are evaluated through different parameters such as the Casson parameter (CP), magnetic field parameter, Reynolds number, Brinkman number and Grashof number. Velocity is diminished for the increment of CP [Formula: see text] Volume flow rate descends with the enhancement of M and [Formula: see text] Entropy generation increased with elevation of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] but reverse effects are found through higher values of [Formula: see text] Moreover, [Formula: see text] is reduced due to magnetic field and group parameter. At the end, a comparison of the velocity profile for [Formula: see text] with Abbas et al. (2019) and the volume flow rate for M with Jha et al. (2015) is established.
Investigation of mechanical and viscoelastic properties of Agave cantala fiber-reinforced green composites for structural applications
Authors: Ramesh M , Tamil Selvan M , Felix Sahayaraj A , Jenish I , Balakrishnan P , Ravanan Arivumani
Published: August 2023

This study explored using cellulosic plant fibers as composite-reinforcing materials for structural applications. Specifically, a green composite material was created using Agave cantala fiber (ACF) and an epoxy matrix with weight fractions ranging from 30% to 60%. The laminates were fabricated using a compression molding technique, which involved alternating layers of resin and fibers on a flat mold. The fibers were uniformly aligned, and the resin was layered over them. The mold was then covered with polyethylene film to ensure that voids were minimized, and the mold was compressed for 12 h at ambient temperature. Four different samples were created by varying the fiber and resin weight percentages, with ACF30 containing 30% fiber and 70% resin, ACF40 containing 40% fiber and 60% resin, ACF50 containing 50% fiber and 50% resin, and ACF60 containing 60% fiber and 40% resin. The resulting composites were characterized to investigate their mechanical properties and it was found that the 40% ACF laminates had the maximum tensile, flexural, and compressive moduli and strengths. Additionally, viscoelastic characteristics were evaluated, and the 40% ACF composite demonstrated the highest storage and loss moduli. Scanning electron microscopy was also used to interpret the interface between the fibers and the matrix at the fracture surfaces. These findings suggest that cellulosic plant fibers have the potential as reinforcement materials for creating high-performance composites.
Research on the calculation method of windage power loss of aviation spiral bevel gear and experiment verification
Authors: Li Linlin , Wang Sanmin
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes a method for calculating windage power losses of spiral bevel gears by dividing the losses into the sum of windage effects on tooth surface, toe/heel, conical surface, and circumferential surface, according to the gear structure. A calculation model for each component of windage losses is established based on the basic equation of fluid dynamics. Subsequently, a windage loss measurement test bench is developed, and a windage moment measurement method is proposed for experimental spiral bevel gears. The individual contributions of each windage loss component are calculated. The results of the calculations indicate that the gear speed is the primary factor that impacts windage losses, with the windage power loss being proportional to the 2.96th power of gear speed. Gear geometry parameters and the jet flow impacting the tooth surface are also significant factors, followed by the hub and spoke values in the wheel body parameters. The findings also show that an increase in lubricating oil content in oil-gas two-phase flow can significantly increase windage losses. Finally, a comparison between the dimensionless windage calculation values and the experimental measurement values demonstrates good agreement. This paper provides theoretical guidance for future research aimed at reducing windage power loss and improving the efficiency of aviation gear transmission.
Numerical analysis and formula correction of mechanical seal ring wear of slurry pump based on thermal deformation
Authors: Wei Qiu , Ahmat Mutellip , Runsheng Yin , He Weilin
Published: August 2023

In view of the excessive wear of the mechanical seal of the slurry pump in the project and the inconsistency between the theoretical wear and the actual wear, this article studies the wear of the mechanical seal of the slurry pump. In this article, a numerical model of mechanical seal wear based on thermal deformation is established. The hardness, wear coefficient and dry friction coefficient of the sealing ring were obtained through experiments, and the wear morphology was collected by the ultra-depth microscope. In this article, the precise calculation of mechanical seal wear is realized, and the seal ring wear depth under single and multiple field conditions is obtained. The wear formula of the mechanical seal is optimized by adding a correction index, and the end face structure of the mechanical seal is improved. The results show that: the seal ring forms a converging surface due to thermal deformation resulting in more severe wear of the inner diameter relative to the outer diameter; the revised wear equation can more accurately predict the life of the nickel-based tungsten carbide alloy mechanical seal, with a 3.2 times increase in expected life after comprehensive end face improvement.
Sleep and Sleep Hygiene of Adolescents With and Without ADHD During COVID-19
Authors: Marten Finja , Keuppens Lena , Baeyens Dieter , Boyer Bianca E. , Danckaerts Marina , Van der Oord Saskia
Published: August 2023

Objective:

This study examined the effect of COVID-19 restrictions on the sleep and sleep hygiene of adolescents with ADHD and comorbid sleep problems and neurotypical adolescents (NT).

Method:

Four groups (two ADHD and two NT) of in total 100 adolescents (50 ADHD and 50 NT) were included. One ADHD and NT group were tested during many COVID-19 restrictions, the other during few. MANCOVAs were implemented with ADHD diagnosis and level of COVID-19 restrictions as independent and sleep outcomes (subjective and objective total sleep time (TST) and sleep onset latency (SOL), sleep and sleep hygiene problems) as dependent variables.

Results:

Both groups had a shorter objective TST during the week during many COVID-19 restrictions. Furthermore, adolescents with ADHD had a shorter subjective SOL during the weekend when there were many COVID-19 restrictions, while the SOL of the NT group stayed the same.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 restrictions are related to the sleep of adolescents with and without ADHD. However, causality and underlying mechanisms need further investigation.
A Lagged Experience Sampling Methodology Study on Spillover Effects of Customer Mistreatment
Authors: Yang Fu , Zhou Zihan , Huang Xiaoyu
Published: August 2023

As a normative and ubiquitous nuisance in the service industry, customer mistreatment has received extensive attention for its profound impacts on front-line employees’ (FLEs) lagged reactions. Drawing upon the Conservation of Resources theory, our results of multilevel path analysis reveal that FLEs encountering daily customer mistreatment experience poor nightly sleep quality, which in turn drives them away from next-day customer-oriented prosocial behavior. These predictions are further contingent upon the levels of service rule commitment, defined as FLEs’ commitment to organizational service rules. In Study 2 and Study 3, we replicate the findings of Study 1 and expand the range of outcomes to cast FLEs’ turnover intention as another consequence triggered by customer mistreatment on the previous day. Furthermore, we incorporate optimal rule control and empathetic leadership into our analyses to propose the three-way interactions. The results unpack that the aggravating effect of high service rule commitment on the relationship between customer mistreatment and nightly sleep quality is buffered when rule control is optimal or when empathetic leadership is high. Taken together, our findings uncover the spillover-depleting effects of daily customer mistreatment and how the strength of such process is bound by personal and contextual factors.
A retrospective study of subcutaneous anchor securement systems in oncology patients
Authors: Hawes Michelle L , McCormick Carol A , Gilbert Gregory E
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Maintaining optimal central venous catheter tip position requires reliable catheter securement. A vital decision about the choice of engineered securement device is often made by what is conveniently available in the insertion kit or default clinical routine. The importance of continuous securement for oncology patients prompted the need for an evaluation of securement options currently available. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of two engineered securement devices to assist the oncology patient in reaching the end of their catheter need.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted to assess patients’ ability to finish their therapy with one peripherally inserted central catheter. Implant and explant data for adult oncology patients was evaluated spanning 2007–2021. All patients received a PICC with either an adhesive securement device or a subcutaneous anchor securement system.

Results:

Partial or complete dislodgement causing the unplanned removal of the PICC occurred at 12% for ASD and 0.4% for SASS ( p < 0.0001). The probability of reaching the end of need with one PICC, regardless of the reason for premature removal, at 2 years for patients with an adhesive securement device was 68% ( n = 944). For patients with a subcutaneous anchored securement device, it was over 95% ( n = 8313). The difference in the probability of reaching the end of the need with one PICC between the two securement devices was calculated at ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

With over 9200 patients and more than a million catheter days, the results of this retrospective study demonstrate the SASS’s superiority in assisting the patient to reach the end of need with a single PICC.
Novel radionuclide therapy combinations in prostate cancer
Authors: Inderjeeth Andrisha–Jade , Iravani Amir , Subramaniam Shalini , Conduit Ciara , Sandhu Shahneen
Published: August 2023

Prostate cancer remains the commonest cancer diagnosed in males and a leading cause of cancer-related death. Men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) who have progressed on chemotherapy and androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPI) have limited treatment options, significant morbidity, and poor outcomes. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-directed radionuclide therapy (RNT) is emerging as an efficacious and well-tolerated therapy; however, disease progression is universal. Several ongoing RNT trials focus on combination strategies to improve efficacy and durability of treatment response, including combinations with ARPIs, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. Further, efforts are underway to expand the role of PSMA-directed RNT to earlier stages of disease including hormone-sensitive and localized prostate cancer. In this review, we discuss the rationale and ongoing RNT combination therapeutic trials in prostate cancer and summarize the efficacy and toxicity associated with RNT.
Pretreatment endocrine symptoms and recurrence-free survival among young premenopausal patients with breast cancer: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kang Danbee , Cho Juhee , Park Seri , Kim Hyo Jung , Kim Seok Won , Lee Jeong Eon , Yu Jonghan , Lee Se Kyung , Kim Ji-Yeon , Nam Seok Jin , Park Yeon Hee
Published: August 2023

Background:

Pretreatment endocrine symptoms in premenopausal patients might be considered as a potential marker of poor prognosis. We conducted a cohort study to evaluate the association between endocrine symptoms prior to treatment and recurrence-free survival (RFS) among premenopausal patients with breast cancer aged ⩽40 years.

Methods:

Data were obtained from a prospective cohort study (NCT03131089) conducted at the Samsung Medical Center from 2013 to 2021. We included patients aged ⩽40 years who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. The primary outcome measure was RFS. Endocrine symptoms were measured using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Endocrine Symptoms (FACT-ES). We also calculated the hazard ratio (HR) for recurrence or all-cause mortality by comparing the tertiles of the FACT-ES score at diagnosis.

Results:

Among the 977 participants, the mean (standard deviation) age was 35.3 (3.9) years. At diagnosis, 17.2% of the patients had at least one severe endocrine symptom. During 3512 person-years of follow-up, the high symptom group had a worse RFS than the low-symptom group [HR = 2.05; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.19–3.54]. In particular, hot flashes (HR = 5.59; 95% CI = 1.96–15.93) and breast sensitivity (HR = 1.82; 95% CI = 1.00–3.32) were associated with reduced RFS.

Conclusion:

Close monitoring of pretreatment endocrine symptoms may be important in patients diagnosed with breast cancer at a young age.
New Sesterterpenoid from the Marine Fungus Penicillium oxalicum M893
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hoang Anh , Do Thi Quynh , Nguyen Thuy Linh , Le Thi Hong Minh , Nguyen Mai Anh , Murphy Brian T , Dam Thanh Xuan , Huong Doan Thi Mai , Cuong Pham Van
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The aim of the project was the isolation, structural elucidation, and antimicrobial and antifungal activities of compounds from the culture broth of the marine fungus Penicillium oxalicum M893 (isolated from the marine brown alga Spatoglossum sp.).

Methods

Combined chromatographic techniques were used to isolate antibacterial and antifungal compounds from the MeOH extract Penicillium oxalicum M893. The structures were elucidated by analyses of high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectral and nuclear magnetic resonance data. The antimicrobial and antifungal effects of compounds were evaluated using the dilution turbidimetric broth method.

Results

One new sesterterpenoid, oxaliterpenoid (1), and six known compounds, aspergillusidone C (2), nidulin (3), emeguisin B (4), aspergillusether A (5), aspergillusether J (6), and guisinol (7) were isolated from the methanol extract of the culture broth of Penicillium oxalicum M893. All compounds showed potent antibacterial activities against Gram-(+) bacteria, E. faecalis (ATCC299212), S. aureus (ATCC25923), and B. cereus (ATCC14579), and the yeast Candida albicans (ATCC10231), with MIC values ranging from 2 to 128 µg/mL.
Familial and Social Stressors Among Jordanian Midwives Amid the COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Alnuaimi Karimeh , Alshraifeen Ali
Published: August 2023

To explore Jordanian midwives’ experiences at their homes and in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The global crisis of COVID-19 disturbs the daily lives of all people including healthcare professionals. Previous studies examined stressors facing healthcare professionals while working with patients. However, studies exploring the consequences of the COVID-19 crisis on the personal lives of midwives are lacking. A descriptive qualitative design. Data were collected using telephone semi-structured interviews from March to April 2020. Twenty (20) midwives from two hospitals were recruited using purposive and snowballing sampling strategies. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Three major themes emerged including “the Pandemic Shaking Our Lives” with the sub-themes of “ Fear to be a “reservoir” of the virus” and “Daily Life Activities Disturbances.” The other two major themes were “Social Stigma” and “Midwives’ Response to the crisis.” Jordanian midwives felt overwhelmed and experienced stressful experiences in their homes and communities during the national lockdown. More focus on midwives’ psychological status and factors influencing them during the crisis is needed rather than focusing on work stressors to avoid any familial-work conflicts and maintain the best level of care provided.
Clinical, Biomechanical, and Self-reported Health Status After ACL Reconstruction With Meniscal Repair in Soccer Players: Results at Minimum 1-Year Follow-up
Authors: Moretti Lorenzo , Bortone Ilaria , Delmedico Michelangelo , Cassano Danilo Giuseppe , Caringella Nuccio , Bizzoca Davide , Moretti Biagio
Published: August 2023

Background:

Performing meniscal repair with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) has been shown to contribute to the long-term preservation of knee health and gait biomechanics.

Purpose:

To evaluate the role of meniscal repair in the performance of semiprofessional soccer players who returned to sport after ACLR.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This study included 51 male soccer players (mean ± SD age, 28.82 ± 5.33 years) who underwent ACLR at a single institution between July 2018 and July 2019. The players were divided into 3 groups according to surgery type: ACLR only (n = 30), ACLR with lateral meniscal repair (n = 9), and ACLR with medial meniscal repair (n = 12). Outcomes were evaluated through clinical examination, self-reported health questionnaires (Cincinnati Knee Rating System, Tegner activity score, Tegner Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, and ACL–Return to Sport After Injury), and biomechanical performance evaluations (balance, strength, coordination, and symmetry tests). Parametric and nonparametric tests were carried out for multiple comparisons.

Results:

The mean ± SD follow-up time was 20.75 ± 9.38 months. Although no significant differences emerged in clinical and self-reported health status, almost all the physical parameters tested resulted in lower performance in players treated with ACLR and meniscal repair. Moreover, patients with ACLR with lateral meniscal repair reported higher pain and fear of reinjury, with lower outcomes in terms of strength, symmetry, and coordination as compared with the other 2 groups. Balance abilities were significantly affected in players who underwent meniscal repair as compared with those who underwent ACLR only.

Conclusion:

The findings showed that biomechanical performance measures and fear of reinjury were significantly worse in soccer players with associated meniscal repair at a minimum 1-year follow-up, especially in those with a lateral meniscal tear.
Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in early central retinal artery occlusion
Authors: Lange Kristin Sophie , Mourand Isabelle , Coget Arthur , Menjot de Champfleur Nicolas , Ayrignac Xavier , Arquizan Caroline , Scheel Michael , Bohner Georg , Villringer Kersten , Zagroun Charlie , Siebert Eberhard , Danyel Leon Alexander
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Restricted retinal diffusion (RDR) has recently been recognized as a frequent finding on standard diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). However, data on early DWI signal evolution are missing.

Patients and methods:

Consecutive CRAO patients with DWI performed within 24 h after onset of visual impairment were included in a bicentric, retrospective cross-sectional study. Two blinded neuroradiologists assessed randomized DWI scans for the presence of retinal ischemia. RDR detection rates, false positive ratings, and interrater agreement were evaluated for predefined time groups.

Results:

Sixty eight CRAO patients (68.4 ± 16.8 years; 25 female) with 72 DWI scans (76.4% 3 T, 23.6% 1.5 T) were included. Mean time-delay between onset of CRAO and DWI acquisition was 13.4 ± 7.0 h. Overall RDR detection rates ranged from 52.8% to 62.5% with false positive ratings in 4.2%–8.3% of cases. RDR detection rates were higher in DWI performed 12–24 h after onset, when compared with DWI acquired within the first 12 h (79.5%vs 39.3%, p < 0.001). The share of false positive ratings was highest for DWI performed within the first 6 h of symptom onset (up to 14.3%). Interrater reliability was “moderate” for DWI performed within the first 18 h (κ = 0.57–0.58), but improved for DWI acquired between 18 and 24 h (κ = 0.94).

Conclusion:

DWI-based detection of retinal ischemia in early CRAO is likely to be time-dependent with superior diagnostic accuracy for DWI performed 12–24 h after onset of visual impairment.
Final sheet thickness variation during the non-isothermal calendering process of rheological Prandtl fluid polymer
Authors: Abbas Zaheer , Khaliq Sabeeh , Ihsan Sibgha , Rafiq Muhammad Yousuf
Published: August 2023

Industries widely use the calendering process to create coated fabrics, thermoplastic films, plastic sheeting, and textile fabrics to procure the prerequisite surface smoothness plus texture. This article inspects the non-isothermal calendering phenomena with heat transfer mechanism to report the rheological behavior of Prandtl fluid on the sensitivity of sheet thickness with velocity slip at roll’s surface. Lubrication theory is utilized to simplify the governing expressions before normalization. We obtained the zeroth plus first order perturbative solutions for the velocity profile, pressure gradient, pressure distribution, temperature, and sheet thickness. And other mechanical properties are evaluated with a numerical solution. Through graphs and tabular data, how material parameters influence the various flow and engineering parameters are reported. As it can be seen, the material parameters are the main parameters that control the pressure gradient, leading to different final sheet thickness and separating force. As the material parameters increased, sheet thickness and separating force increased.
Targeted therapy with nanatinostat and valganciclovir in recurrent EBV-positive lymphoid malignancies: a phase 1b/2 study
Authors: Haverkos Bradley , Alpdogan Onder , Baiocchi Robert , Brammer Jonathan E. , Feldman Tatyana A. , Capra Marcelo , Brem Elizabeth A. , Nair Santosh , Scheinberg Phillip , Pereira Juliana , Shune Leyla , Joffe Erel , Young Patricia , Spruill Susan , Katkov Afton , McRae Robert , Royston Ivor , Faller Douglas V. , Rojkjaer Lisa , Porcu Pierluigi
Published: August 2023

Lymphomas are not infrequently associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and EBV positivity is linked to worse outcomes in several subtypes. Nanatinostat is a class-I selective oral histone deacetylase inhibitor that induces the expression of lytic EBV BGLF4 protein kinase in EBV+ tumor cells, activating ganciclovir via phosphorylation, resulting in tumor cell apoptosis. This phase 1b/2 study investigated the combination of nanatinostat with valganciclovir in patients aged ≥18 years with EBV+ lymphomas relapsed/refractory to ≥1 prior systemic therapy with no viable curative treatment options. In the phase 1b part, 25 patients were enrolled into 5 dose escalation cohorts to determine the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) for phase 2 expansion. Phase 2 patients (n = 30) received RP2D (nanatinostat 20 mg daily, 4 days per week with valganciclovir 900 mg orally daily) for 28-day cycles. The primary end points were safety, RP2D determination (phase 1b), and overall response rate (ORR; phase 2). Overall, 55 patients were enrolled (B–non-Hodgkin lymphoma [B-NHL], [n = 10]; T-cell/natural killer cell-NHL, [n = 21]; classical Hodgkin lymphoma, [n = 11]; and immunodeficiency-associated lymphoproliferative disorders, [n = 13]). The ORR was 40% in 43 evaluable patients (complete response rate [CRR], 19% [n = 8]) with a median duration of response of 10.4 months. For T-cell/natural killer cell-NHL (n = 15; all refractory to the last prior therapy), the ORR/CRR ratio was 60%/27%. The most common adverse events were nausea (38% any grade) and cytopenia (grade 3/4 neutropenia [29%], thrombocytopenia [20%], and anemia [20%]). This novel oral regimen provided encouraging efficacy across several EBV+ lymphoma subtypes and warrants further evaluation; a confirmatory phase 2 study (NCT05011058) is underway. This phase 1b/2 study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03397706.
Suicidality and protective factors among sexual and gender minority youth and adults in Canada: a cross-sectional, population-based study
Authors: Liu Li , Batomen Brice , Pollock Nathaniel J. , Contreras Gisèle , Jackson Beth , Pan Saiyi , Thompson Wendy
Published: August 2023

Background

Sexual and gender minority populations experience elevated risks for suicidality. This study aimed to assess prevalence and disparities in non-fatal suicidality and potential protective factors related to social support and health care access among sexual and gender minority youth and adults and their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts in Canada. The second objective was to examine changes in the prevalence of suicidal ideation and protective factors during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Pooled data from the 2015, 2016 and 2019 Canadian Community Health Surveys were used to estimate pre-pandemic prevalence of suicidal ideation, plans and attempts, and protective factors. The study also estimated changes in the prevalence of recent suicidal ideation and protective factors in fall 2020, compared with the same period pre-pandemic.

Results

The prevalence of suicidality was higher among the sexual minority populations compared with the heterosexual population, and the prevalence was highest among the bisexual population, regardless of sex or age group. The pre-pandemic prevalence of recent suicidal ideation was 14.0% for the bisexual population, 5.2% for the gay/lesbian population, and 2.4% for the heterosexual population. The prevalence of lifetime suicide attempts was 16.6%, 8.6%, and 2.8% respectively. More than 40% of sexual minority populations aged 15–44 years had lifetime suicidal ideation; 64.3% and 36.5% of the gender minority population had lifetime suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. Sexual and gender minority populations had a lower prevalence of protective factors related to social support and health care access. The prevalence of recent suicidal ideation among sexual and gender minority populations increased in fall 2020, and they tended to experience longer wait times for immediate care needed.

Conclusions

Sexual and gender minority populations had a higher prevalence of suicidality and less social support and health care access compared to the heterosexual and cisgender populations. The pandemic was associated with increased suicidal ideation and limited access to care for these groups. Public health interventions that target modifiable protective factors may help decrease suicidality and reduce health disparities.
A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial of duloxetine hydrochloride enteric-coated tablets in the treatment of refractory chronic cough
Authors: Wang Shengyuan , Li Shaohui , Wu Heng , Zhang Tongyangzi , Chen Yixiao , Zhu Yiqing , Wen Siwan , Shi Cuiqin , Yu Li , Xu Xianghuai
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Refractory cough, a chronic cough with an unclear diagnosis or poor treatment response. The symptoms are often stubborn and persistent, causing serious complications and lowering the patient's quality of life. Cough hypersensitivity syndrome (CHS) is proposed as a potential cause, and reducing sensory nerve hyperresponsiveness is suggested as an effective treatment. However, current drugs have low efficacy and benefit rates and numerous side effects. This trail proposes using duloxetine, a selective 5-HT and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, as a potential treatment for refractory cough, which has shown promise in treating pain and depression. Duloxetine may inhibit pain conduction and oxidative stress in peripheral nerves by inhibiting the activity of TRPV1 channels, which play an important role in the peripheral afferent pathway of refractory cough. Meanwhile, the antidepressant effects of duloxetine may also play a role in the treatment of refractory cough.

Methods and analysis

This is a single-center, prospective, randomized, double-blind, and controlled trial. A total of 98 individuals will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to duloxetine group and placebo control group (starting with 20 mg QD, increasing 20 mg daily until 20 mg TID). After a screening period, the second stage runs from baseline to the 42nd (last) day of treatment, with follow-up visits on the 3rd, 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th, 35th, 42nd and 49th days. The main end-stage observation indicators include objective cough frequency, cough visual analog scale (VAS), cough symptom score, Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ), and cough evaluation test (CET); the secondary end-stage observation indicators include capsaicin cough sensitivity, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Major Depression Inventory (MDI), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale (GAD-7), Life Events Scale (LES-32), induced sputum supernatant. The safety measures will be AEs/SAEs, vital signs, liver and kidney function, fecal occult blood test.

Discussion

This study is the first randomized, double-blind, and controlled clinical trial investigating the use of duloxetine in the treatment of refractory coughs. The study aims to provide a high-quality basis for evaluating the efficacy and safety of duloxetine for this condition.

Trial registration

Our study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trials Register (www.chictr.org.cn/) (ChiCTR2000037429) in 28/08/2020.