bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of ANN prediction model for estimation of heat transfer utilizing rectangular-toothed v-cut twisted tape
Authors: Singh Sanjay Kumar , Kacker Ruchin , Gautam Satyam Shivam , Tamang Santosh Kumar
Published: August 2024

This work explores the heat transfer performance and friction characteristics of toothed v-cut twisted tapes, while employing an artificial neural network (ANN) as a predictive model. The novelty of this study lies in the innovative use of toothed v-cut twisted tapes to enhance heat transfer performance, coupled with the application of ANN for precise prediction and optimization. Focusing on a specific geometric range by adjusting the depth ratio of rectangular teeth and the width-to-depth ratio of the v-cut, the study investigates turbulent flows with Reynolds numbers spanning from 6000 to 13,000, mirroring real-world applications. The investigations unveil that the introduction of teeth to the v-cut generates a secondary vortex flow, contributing significantly to improved heat transfer by enhancing the Nusselt number ( Nu) and mitigating the reduction in heat transfer rate with increasing depth of cut at higher Reynolds numbers ( Re). The nuanced behavior of the friction factor is revealed, showcasing its inverse proportionality to Re and e/ c, and direct proportionality to b/ c, offering valuable practical insights. Remarkably, the analysis of heat transfer rate variations underscores the ANN model's predictive accuracy. Key findings include the most substantial increase in heat transfer rate for b/ c = 0.67 and e/ c = 0.14, with the ANN model predictions closely aligning with these results. The ANN model, trained on extensive datasets derived from experiments, emerges as a robust predictive tool, demonstrating mean relative errors constrained to less than 3.3% for Nusselt numbers and 0.08% for friction factors. Validation against previously unseen datasets further substantiates its efficacy, with an average percentage error of 3.32% for friction and 0.96% for Nusselt numbers. These results, along with the 97% and 99% accuracy for friction and Nusselt numbers, respectively, position the ANN model as a reliable tool for precision in predicting and optimizing heat transfer dynamics across varied engineering scenarios.
Targeted transfers, a left-wing policy? The impact of left-wing governments and corporatism on transfers to low-income families (1982–2019)
Authors: Durocher Dominic
Published: August 2024

In the last decades, several countries introduced new income-tested child benefits and targeted in-work tax credits to boost the income of low-income families. Inspired by the power resource theory, I postulate that left-wing governments tend to increase benefits to low-income families because their ideology favours redistribution and to consolidate the vote of low-income families, but that both right- and left-wing governments increase benefits for middle-income families. The impact of left-wing governments should be stronger in countries with a weak bargaining system as social partners are unable to reduce inequalities between families. To demonstrate this argument, I use statistical analyses based on OECD data to measure the effect of government ideology and corporatism on the level of benefits received by low- and middle-income families in OECD countries from 1982 to 2019. The results indicate that left-wing parties have a significant impact on benefits received by low-income families, but not on benefits received by middle-income families. Also, even though corporatism is associated with different types of child benefits, it does not influence the relationship between left-wing governments and benefits received by low-income families.
Investigation of effects of bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate derived from glycolysis of polyethylene terephthalate on the properties of flexible polyurethane foam
Authors: El Hatka Hicham , Hafidi Youssef , Ittobane Najim
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the potential of bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET), derived from the glycolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) waste, as an additive in the synthesis of flexible polyurethane foam (FPUF), addressing the escalating environmental concerns associated with PET waste accumulation and the demand for sustainable material solutions. The influence of varying BHET content on the synthesis process, cellular architecture, and the intricate interplay between compositional variations and the resultant physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of FPUFs has been investigated. Our examination approach included analyses of foam density and cell morphology, comprehensive Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for chemical structure elucidation, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to assess thermal stability, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) alongside mechanical property evaluations to discern the impact of BHET on foam performance metrics. Results emphasized the pivotal role of BHET in refining foam characteristics, where its inclusion facilitated the formation of foams with improvement in cell uniformity, subsequently affecting the foam’s apparent density. FTIR spectra analysis provided insight into the hydrogen bonding dynamics within polyurethane segments, revealing how BHET integration influenced microphase separation and the structural coherence of the material. The thermal and mechanical property assessments through TGA and mechanical testing demonstrated that the addition of BHET substantially augmented the thermal stability and mechanical performance of FPUFs.
Exploring Obesity Treatment Potential of Neolamarckia cadamba Bioactive Fraction: A Multifaceted Investigation Combining In Vitro, 3T3-L1 Adipogenesis Differentiation, and HPTLC–MS Techniques to Identify Lead Compounds
Authors: Kumari Shivangi , Pattnaik Ashok Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background

The rising incidence of obesity and its related health issues demand novel approaches prioritizing safety and effectiveness. In light of concern about the side effects of pharmaceutical therapies, research into alternative medicines has accelerated. Neolamarckia cadamba (NC), a tropical medicinal plant with a diverse phytochemical profile, presents a promising avenue for obesity management.

Purpose

The objective of this research was to evaluate the possible role of isolated fractions in mitigating obesity using antioxidant and enzyme inhibition studies. Additionally, the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis differentiation assay was utilized further to understand the effect of these fractions on adipocyte behavior. Furthermore, we used analytical techniques, high-performance thin-layer chromatography in conjugation with mass spectrometry (HPTLC–MS), to evaluate the chemical characteristics of the bioactive fractions.

Methods

Cold maceration extraction followed by column chromatography was utilized to isolate the bioactive fraction which was subjected to meticulous phytochemical analysis as well as in vitro antioxidant assays. Enzyme inhibition assays were conducted to evaluate their impact on pancreatic lipase, alpha-glucosidase, and alpha-amylase followed by the 3T3-L1 adipogenesis study to assess adipocyte behavior. Finally, HPTLC–MS was utilized for chemical characterization.

Results

Fraction 1 demonstrated the most potent activity, also exhibited significant antioxidant potential, and effectively inhibited key enzymes involved in adipogenesis. In the 3T3-L1 cell line, the fraction notably reduced lipid accumulation and triglyceride levels. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of compounds including stigmasterol, gallic acid, quercetin, 4-hydroxycoumarin, and naringin.

Conclusion

The study underscores the potency of NC and offers a holistic approach to obesity management, providing a promising approach for the development of effective and safer therapeutic interventions.
Clinical Profile and Outcome of Neonates with Meconium Aspiration Syndrome at an Indian Tertiary Care: An Observational Study
Authors: Kandpal Jyoti , Kamalarathnam C. N. , Anitha Murugesan , Vaideeswaran Mariappan , Narayanan Ethirajan , Sangeetha T.
Published: August 2024

Background

Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is still a major contributor to newborn respiratory morbidity and mortality. Many centres lack advanced modalities such as high-frequency oscillatory ventilation and inhaled nitric oxide. Very few studies in developing countries have focused on its clinical profile, management, respiratory morbidity and mortality.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, risk factors, complications and outcomes in neonates with MAS.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted in a level III neonatal intensive care unit of an outborn tertiary referral centre in South India. Case sheets of neonates, born out of meconium-stained liquor who had respiratory distress at admission and were diagnosed as MAS, were included. The primary outcome was to study the clinical profile of neonates with MAS. The secondary outcomes were to estimate the proportion of neonates who developed complications of MAS.

Results

The incidence of MAS over a 5-year period, out of total 8,990 neonates admitted at our centre, was 161 (1.79 %). Data of 161 neonates were analysed. The neonates were admitted at a median duration of 5 h of life (interquartile range 3–14). Mean gestational age and weight were 38.7 (1.41) weeks and 2900 (530) g, respectively. Associated morbidities like shock were seen in 55 (34.1%), persistent pulmonary hypertension of newborns in 40 (24.8 %), hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy in 23 (14.2%), seizures in 16 (9.9%), pneumothorax in 8 (4.96%) and sepsis in 34 (21.1%). On logistic regression analysis, age at admission >24 h, small for gestational age (SGA) and need for resuscitation at birth were risk factors associated with severe MAS. Mortality in MAS was 7 (4.34%).

Conclusion

Need for resuscitation, SGA at birth and age at admission >24 h were associated with severe MAS. Timely referral of neonates with a risk factor for severe MAS can improve outcomes.
Crime-First Labels and Public Attitudes Toward Adolescent Girls in the Juvenile Legal System
Authors: Smith Douglas C. , Epinger Ebonie M. , Begum Shahana , Garthe Rachel C. , Carrington Allison , Jacobs Lisa
Published: August 2024

Purpose: This study delves into the effects of labels, specifically crime-first language, on public attitudes toward adolescent girls within the juvenile legal system. Examining fictional vignettes depicting family conflict, the research explores whether the use of language influences the endorsement of punitive responses and if this effect varies across racial and ethnic lines. Method: A large online, statewide sample of adults ( n = 1,791) was randomized to one of six vignettes. Results: Findings reveal that crime-first language, “accused of domestic battery,” is significantly associated with more punitive attitudes. We found no interaction effects between race and label. Although effect sizes were small, the study emphasizes the need to reconsider language choices to avoid perpetuating negative stereotypes and stigmatization. Discussion: Identifying and disseminating person-first language may be an important form of social work practice that can enhance current efforts on the Social Work Grand Challenge of promoting smart decarceration.
Authentic Assessment of Executive Functions in Early Childhood: A Scoping Review
Authors: Londono Maria Camila , Dionne Carmen , Lacharité Carl
Published: August 2024

Executive functions (EFs) are cognitive skills that begin developing in early life and are crucial for children’s overall development and daily task performance. Generally, EFs are assessed through standardized neuropsychological tests, which may not always accurately capture real-world application. To overcome this limitation, alternative methods such as authentic assessment have emerged. A scoping review was conducted to map the information available regarding the authentic assessment of EFs in children under 6 years of age from 2010 to 2021. Out of 790 documents, 32 met the eligibility criteria after full-text revision. Two rating scales emerged as the most used EFs assessment instruments. The documents did not explicitly mention the term “authentic assessment.” Four commonly assessed EFs were identified. Findings highlight the need to develop multidimensional authentic assessment instruments to assess early EFs skills in all children. This includes children at risk or with developmental disabilities, and children from families with incomes below the poverty threshold.
What Free Flaps Are Surgeons Using for Palatal Fistula Repair in Patients with Cleft Palate? A Systematic Review
Authors: Zheng Eugene E. , Gates-Tanzer Lauren , Cherukuri Sai , Mardini Samir , Murad M. Hassan , Bite Uldis , Gibreel Waleed
Published: August 2024

Objective

Recalcitrant palatal fistulas in patients with cleft palate history sometimes require free flap reconstruction. This study reviews the literature on described flaps and outcomes.

Design

A systematic review was conducted per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.

Setting

All study designs were included. Non-English articles were excluded.

Patients and Participants

Patients with a history of cleft palate who underwent free flap reconstruction for a oronasal fistula.

Interventions

Free tissue transfer for a palatal fistula repair.

Main outcomee measures

Information regarding defect and flap characteristics were reviewed. Surgical outcomes such as flap loss rates, rates of recurrent fistula formation, and speech outcomes were also obtained.

Results

Our search returned 894 articles, of which 23 were included. All studies were retrospective case series and reports. A total of 65 patients were described with an average age of 19.3 (range 3–55) years and a median fistula size of 8.00 cm2 (range 2.54 cm2 – 24 cm2). The most common flap was the radial forearm flap (n = 37). Nine patients (13.8%) had recurrent fistula formation with surgical revision successful in all cases in which the patient returned to the operating room. There were two partial flap losses and no total flap losses. Speech outcomes showed improvement in 27 patients across 10 studies.

Conclusions

Palatal fistula repair with free tissue transfer is safe with an acceptable risk profile and low flap loss rate. Early recurrence due to partial flap necrosis and dehiscence are successfully managed with flap readvancement.
The Relationship Between Home Health Agencies’ Financial Performance and Quality of Care
Authors: Brumitt Gary M. , Mazurenko Olena , Blackburn Justin L. , Menachemi Nir , Vest Joshua R.
Published: August 2024

Home health agencies (HHAs) provide important care within the U.S. healthcare system. This cross-sectional observational study aims to examine the possible association between HHA financial performance on Home Health Compare (HHC) Patient star ratings in the 2018 to 2019 fiscal years. This study included approximately 4700 HHAs per each fiscal year. Utilizing the Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Provider and Systems (CAHPS) survey, Medicare Cost Reports, and US Census Bureau County data, we denoted financial performance as negative operating margins for HHAs (i.e., HHAs that lose money). The quality outcome was HHC quality star ratings. Employing Poisson regression, we found HHAs with negative operating margins associated with an 8-percentage point decrease in average mean HHC star ratings (AME = −0.08; 95% CI = −0.12, −0.04; p < .001). For-profit ownership (AME = −0.07; 95% CI = −0.12, −0.03; p < .001) and urban status (AME = −0.31; 95% CI = −0.35, −0.26; p < .001) both had lower mean HHC ratings. Chain affiliation was associated with higher HHC ratings and a 15-percentage point increase in its average mean HHC ratings (AME = 0.15; 95% CI = 0.11, 0.18; p < .001). Earning a positive operating margin may not necessarily equate to high quality, yet establishing quality ratings is a key initiative for HHAs. Medicare Payment Advisory Committee (MEDPAC) recommends an overall reduction in reimbursement payments starting in 2024. Consequently, given the importance of quality ratings for HHAs, and the possible change in reimbursement rates, HHAs need to be aware of how their financial performance associates with quality.
Traveling as a means to escape air pollution: Evidence from pollution information disclosure in China
Authors: Du Kerui , Huang Qilin , Du Zhili
Published: August 2024

Information is a crucial component in human decision-making. This study explores the effect of pollution information on tourism behavior and the subsequent effect on individual well-being. Exploiting China’s pollution information disclosure policy as a natural experiment and a nationwide longitudinal survey, we find that tourism behavior became more responsive to air pollution after pollution information was made publicly available. Specifically, a 1% increase in PM2.5 concentration caused a 0.54% rise in household tourism expenditure. Additionally, tourism served as an adaptive mechanism to mitigate the adverse impact of air pollution on subjective well-being. Higher-income and younger people are more sensitive to this type of information. Our findings shed light on the significance of pollution information in tourism behavior and emphasize the role of information in promoting individual welfare.
Acceptability of internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy and carer inclusion for breast cancer survivors: Thematic findings from interviews
Authors: Akkol-Solakoglu Selin , Hevey David
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer survivors often lack post-treatment psychological care options. Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) has proven effective for depression and anxiety among survivors. Involving carers in iCBT can further encourage survivors and enhance the benefits they receive. This study explored survivors’ experiences with iCBT and their perspectives on carer involvement. Fifteen participants were interviewed. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Most survivors found iCBT helpful, mentioning evidence-based approach, reminders, readiness for change, recognising benefits, and contributing to research as engagement facilitators. Suggestions included widespread availability of the programme and additional guidance on some tools. Reluctance to involve carers resulted from survivors’ unwillingness to discuss cancer, desire not to burden others, and the need for ownership over their recovery. Findings support iCBT’s acceptability in addressing post-treatment depression and anxiety among survivors. Future research could explore alternative ways to involve carers, such as dedicated programmes, optional joint exercises, or brief interventions.
The effect of polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate on the mechanical properties of butyl rubber (IIR)-based thermoplastic elastomer using semi-efficient vulcanisation system and a nano zinc oxide as activator
Authors: Madani Seyed Morteza , Movahed Saeed Ostad
Published: August 2024

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), a class of materials bridging the gap between rubber and thermoplastics, have revolutionised diverse fields with their unique properties and applications. This study highlights the critical importance of compatibility between plastics, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and butyl rubber (isobutylene-isoprene rubber, IIR) components in TPEs for optimal performance. Several TPEs were prepared with different amounts of plastics. Subsequently, the TPEs were cured, and curing and mechanical properties, and correspondent thermal stability and solvent resistance were measured. It revealed that the thermal stability of TPEs, containing PVC, PET and IIR, was influenced by the type and quantity of each plastic, affecting degradation temperatures. PVC and PET exhibited distinct effects on the curing behaviour of IIR-based TPEs, impacting scorch time and optimum cure time differently. The incorporation of PVC and PET enhanced the organic solvent resistance of the TPEs, attributed to physical barrier effects, enhanced crosslinking, increased crystallinity, and specific interfacial interactions. Tensile strength and elongation at break generally decreased with the addition of plastics, reflecting incompatible interactions and increased crystallinity. Meanwhile, hardness increased due to the rigid structure and filler effects of plastics. Achieving an optimal TPE formulation involves balancing these competing effects.
Hemispheric asymmetry for global-local processing: Effects of stimulus category and ageing
Authors: Chen Haiwen , Cox Jolene A , Aimola Davies Anne M
Published: August 2024

Hemispheric asymmetry has been reported for global-local processing in young and older adults, with global processing specialised in the right hemisphere (RH-global specialisation) and local processing specialised in the left hemisphere (LH-local specialisation). Questions persist regarding the extent to which hemispheric asymmetry is influenced by stimulus category (verbal stimuli processed in the left hemisphere; visuospatial stimuli processed in the right hemisphere). Some evidence suggests stimulus category does not influence hemispheric asymmetry (stimulus-independent account) while other evidence suggests it does (stimulus-dependent account). In older adults, there is evidence of a local-processing advantage, believed to result from slower and less accurate performance in right-hemisphere compared to left-hemisphere functioning—the right-hemisphere ageing hypothesis. We examined hemispheric asymmetry for global-local processing in young and older participants with three hierarchical figures (letters, verbalisable objects, and nonverbalisable shapes), in a within-subjects design using a divided-attention paradigm and unilateral presentation. Our findings for letters and verbalisable objects support the stimulus-independent account—young and older participants demonstrated RH-global specialisation and LH-local specialisation regardless of stimulus category. In older participants, we also found a local-processing advantage for all three stimulus categories—an advantage best explained as faster and more accurate performance in local processing regardless of the visual field of stimulus presentation. Overall, we found hemispheric asymmetry for global-local processing in both young and older adults, and differences in global processing between young and older adults. Future investigation is suggested for the hemispheric asymmetry found in global-local processing of nonverbalisable shapes, and the mechanisms underlying age-related changes in global processing.
Recurrent ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack after patent foramen ovale closure: A cohort study
Authors: Sørensen Henrik , Grove Erik L , Hojbjerg Johanne Andersen , Andersen Asger , Nielsen-Kudsk Jens Erik , Simonsen Claus Z
Published: August 2024

Background:

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) has been associated with ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA). Guidelines recommend PFO closure for stroke prevention in selected patients, but the risk of recurrent stroke remains high compared to the background population. We aimed to evaluate the causes of recurrent stroke/TIA and post-interventional complications in patients after PFO closure.

Methods:

Patients from the Central Denmark Region who underwent PFO closure at Aarhus University Hospital between November 5, 2018, and May 12, 2023, following an ischemic stroke, TIA, amaurosis fugax, or retinal emboli were included. Data on patient demographics, risk factors, procedural details, post-interventional complications, and recurrent stroke/TIA were collected from electronic medical records.

Results:

PFO closure was performed in 310 patients (median age: 49 years). During a median follow-up of 2.6 years (interquartile range: 1.5–3.6, 814 total patient-years), recurrent stroke/TIA was observed in 8 patients (2.6%), or 0.98 recurrent strokes per 100 patient-years. Recurrent stroke/TIA was more frequent in patients with hypertension (50.0% vs. 16.9%, p = 0.039). Recurrent stroke/TIA was related to thrombophilia or hematologic conditions entailing hypercoagulability in 62.5% of patients. New-onset atrial fibrillation was observed in 9.4% of patients within 45 days after the procedure. None of these patients subsequently developed an ischemic event. Other adverse outcomes were uncommon.

Conclusion:

Rates of recurrent ischemic stroke/TIA after PFO closure were comparable to findings in previous trials. Pre-existing vascular risk factors (hypertension), and a hypercoagulable state were associated with recurrent ischemic stroke/TIA.
Clinical implications of six-minute walk test in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Min Jee , Nathan Steven D. , Kim Hyeon Hwa , Kim Ho Cheol
Published: August 2024

Background:

A six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a reproducible, easily performed test, and is widely used to determine functional exercise capacity in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). However, there is currently a paucity of data on the clinical significance of baseline and serial 6-minute walk tests in patients with IPF, especially in Asian patients.

Objectives:

We aimed to investigate the clinical significance of serial 6MWT in patients with IPF, especially in Asian patients.

Design:

This is a single-center retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

Clinical data of patients diagnosed with IPF at a tertiary center in Korea were retrospectively analyzed. IPF diagnosis was defined according to the clinical guidelines of the American Thoracic Society (ATS)/European Respiratory Society (ERS)/Japanese Respiratory Society/Latin American Thoracic Association.

Results:

There were 216 patients diagnosed with IPF from December 2012 to January 2022, of whom 198 had a baseline of 6MWT data. The mean age of the cohort was 66.9 ± 8.6, and 89% were male. The non-survivors showed significantly lower six-minute walk distance (6MWD), minimum saturation of peripheral oxygen (SpO2) during 6MWT, forced vital capacity, and diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide than survivors at baseline. A multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that lower minimum SpO2 was independently associated with increased mortality rates (Hazard ratio (HR): 1.081, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.024–1.142, p = 0.005). Higher mortality rates were also associated with echocardiographic-determined pulmonary hypertension (HR: 2.466, 95% CI: 1.149–5.296, p = 0.021) at diagnosis. Among 144 patients with 6MWT results at 12 months, patients with a decline of 50 m or more in the 6MWD showed poorer overall survival than others (median survival: 45.0 months vs 58.0 months, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Baseline lower minimum SpO2 during 6MWT was an independent prognostic factor in patients with IPF, and a decline in 6MWD in serial follow-up was also associated with a poorer prognosis. These findings suggest that both baseline 6MWT and follow-up data are important in the prognostication of patients with IPF.
Bronchiectasis
Authors: Bryant Michael
Published: August 2024

Bronchiectasis is increasingly common in the context of an ageing population, and may be underdiagnosed. It is important that GPs are aware of when to suspect bronchiectasis, the role of primary care in managing these patients, when to refer to secondary care, how to recognise a deteriorating patient, and when hospital admission is required.
The well-tempered color circle: A chromatic Gestalt
Authors: Koenderink Jan J. , van Doorn Andrea J. , Braun Doris I.
Published: August 2024

The “Color Circle” is an important chromatic Gestalt in the visual arts. There is not really a formal equivalent in conventional colorimetry. The fact that the hues can be linearly ordered and that such an order is necessarily periodic was intuited by artists in the early 19th century, but only formally explained by Ostwald and later Schrödinger a century later. As with musical keys, various metrical orders are in common use. Is there such a thing as a “well tempered” order? We consider this an issue for experimental phenomenology. We discuss an attempt based on observations by 30 (nonartist) observers.
Chicken bones: An etiology of a misleading clinical presentation of a rare case report of appendicular perforation
Authors: Mehdi Trabelsi Mohamed , Neirouz Kammoun , Souhir Nasseh , Souha Bhouri , Mohamed Ali Chaouch , Annouar Oueslati , Mehdi Khalfallah , Ramzi Nouira
Published: August 2024

Foreign body (FB) ingestion leading to appendicular perforation, although rare in adults, presents a complex clinical challenge. The clinical presentation may not always be straightforward, necessitating a comprehensive array of diagnostic examinations. In fact, accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial to prevent severe complications. In this report, we present a case where a misleading clinical presentation led to the unexpected discovery of appendicular perforation during surgery, despite initial suspicion of small bowel perforation – a 77-year-old male patient who was edentulous and under follow-up for chronic bronchitis stage IV. He sought medical attention due to a 2-week history of right iliac fossa pain, during which he did not experience vomiting or fever. Upon physical examination, there was a tenderness noted in the sub umbilical region. An abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan was performed, revealing the presence of a dense FB which seems to be a bone located in the last ileal loop. Additionally, the appendix appeared slightly distended. Given the clinical presentation, which strongly indicated acute peritonitis resulting from small bowel perforation, and following consultation with gastroenterologists, it was decided that endoscopic retrieval was not suitable for this case. Therefore, a surgical approach was chosen, involving a midline incision, as laparoscopy was absolutely contraindicated because of patient’s respiratory distress. Per-operatively, we identified a clear effusion, and within the wall of the appendix, we discovered a thin, sharp chicken bone that had become lodged, resulting in a phlegmonous and perforated appendix. The 2-cm bone was successfully removed, and an appendectomy was performed. The post-operative period was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on the fourth postoperative day. This case highlights the need for a high index of suspicion for atypical clinical presentations and the ongoing need for research to improve our understanding and management of this rare condition, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Constructing a New Framework for Sport and Development: Investigating the Media Portrayal of Village Basketball Association in China
Authors: Lu Mingjiang , Zhang Liwen , Zhang Zizhong
Published: August 2024

Sport and development have a long and intricate relationship. Since 2022, a grassroots basketball league named “Village Basketball Association” has gained widespread attention across China and the world, and made significant contributions to local development. In this study, we examined how the VBA was narrated by the Chinese media and how its connection with local and national agendas of development was discursively constructed. By combining content analysis and critical discourse analysis, we found that the Chinese media showcased a strong discursive inclination towards development topics when reporting the VBA. This further includes the construction of the VBA as a special stage, with emphasis on its grassroots nature, politicizing the VBA with efforts and agenda of development, and de-contextualizing it from the sporting realm to construct it as a model for rural development. Based on our findings, we propose a “balanced and coordinated framework” of sport for development studies to address the current theoretical niches.
The Experience of Emerging Adult Daughters Caring for a Parent With Advanced Disease
Authors: Tong Eryn , Nissim Rinat , Goldstein Abby L.
Published: August 2024

Caring for a parent during emerging adulthood may be a disruptive and non-normative experience. Despite the growing prevalence of emerging adult (EA) caregivers, there remains limited research. We explored the experiences of EAs caring for parents living with advanced disease. Interviews were conducted with 12 EA daughters and analyzed using constructivist grounded theory. The core category was identified as negotiating accelerated adulthood, a dynamic interplay between feeling more of an adult than before and the paradoxical feeling of I’m not where I should be. Prior to the core category, participants’ caregiving role is assumed. Availability of support influenced participants’ process of negotiating accelerated adulthood. Findings highlight the uniqueness and developmental impact of this experience. Results suggest an interplay of different factors with how the role is assumed, appraised, and experienced by EA daughters. Greater awareness of these experiences may inform the development of tailored interventions and strategies for EA caregivers.
The Impacts of Landscape Loss on Industrial Communities: Solastalgia in Coal Regions
Authors: Adams Alison E. , Shriver Thomas E.
Published: August 2024

Extant research has documented how coal industries can have devastating impacts on industrial communities. While much of the sociological research on climate change has focused on issues of environmental sustainability and resilience, comparatively less research has centered around the social and emotional consequences of climate change in the context of industrial areas. To attend to this gap in the literature, we investigate how coal communities grieve lost landscapes and how that grief informs responses to future environmental threats. To do this, we build on and extend recent work that has argued for the sociological relevance of the concept of solastalgia in analyzing how communities cope with the impacts of natural and technological disasters at the local level. The term solastalgia describes the distress communities experience as they lose landscapes they once cherished in the wake of events such as expanding extractive activities. Specifically, we analyzed a coal mining region in the Czech Republic to examine how communities experience solastalgia in regions that have been chronically exploited for industrial energy extraction over time. Our findings revealed how solastalgia within industrial and coal communities can translate across time and generations. We use the term intergenerational solastalgia to capture this community-level phenomenon.
Veterans Affairs Training Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic-Trainee Satisfaction and Interest in Future Veterans Affairs Employment: A National Survey
Authors: Griffin Anne R. , Bai Jia , Northcraft Heather , Dobalian Aram
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The emergence of COVID-19 caused a sudden, unexpected disruption in the clinical training experiences of nurse trainees at the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the largest clinical training setting in the US for nurses.

Purpose

To understand associations between COVID-19 and nurse trainees’ satisfaction with their training experiences and the likelihood that they would consider future VA employment.

Methods

A cross-sectional design was used to assess 7,890 nurse responses from the VA's Trainee Satisfaction Survey for academic years 2018–2021.

Results

After the pandemic, trainees reported decreased training satisfaction (95.06% vs. 93.46%; P = .0028). Willingness to consider future VA employment was unchanged. Patient case mix, the onboarding process, and challenges with other staff were the most common reasons for dissatisfaction.

Conclusion

Nurse trainees expressed a small but statistically significant degree of dissatisfaction with their clinical learning environment during this study period but their willingness to seek employment with the VA remained high.
Measures to Prevent and Reduce Healthcare Worker Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review
Authors: Chaisurin Patcharin , Yodchai Natthawut
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In the COVID-19 era, burnout is a major occupational hazard among healthcare workers. This scoping review intended to investigate the pertinent literature concerning COVID-19 burnout among healthcare workers (HCWs) and the measures to prevent and reduce HCW burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

The databases CINAHL, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus were systematically searched and screened for relevant papers. Additionally, manual searching was employed to supplement the electronic database results. The researchers examined 21 publications to answer the research question, “What have been the measures to prevent and reduce healthcare worker burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic?” The PRISMA 2020 checklist was used to guide the reporting of this scoping review.

Results

It was found that to diminish healthcare workers’ burnout, it is vital to use multilevel, evidence-based approaches. These interventions may include increasing awareness of the risks and preparing for potential occupational stress and burnout; promoting mindfulness and self-care practices to enhance mental well-being; enhancing organizational policies and procedures to address burnout among healthcare workers; and ensuring the availability of optimal mental health services, including the use of digital technologies to address workplace stress and facilitate mental health interventions.

Conclusion

The interventions to prevent and reduce HCW burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic include supporting HCWs individually, improving work environments, and addressing health system factors contributing to burnout complemented by interventions aimed at enhancing work culture.
Experiences of Nurses and Midwives With Indecorously Structured Duty Rosters at Selected Health Facilities in Ho, Volta Region of Ghana: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Dartey Anita Fafa , Tackie Vivian , Lotse Comfort Worna , Lily Dodoo , Sagbo Francis Mawougnon
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Decent working time in the health sector is critical to providing quality care, and balancing health workers’ well-being with the requirements of 24/7 healthcare provision. Nursing and midwifery staff, comprising the largest group in the health workforce, play a crucial role. Understanding their experiences and challenges related to duty rosters is essential for improving work conditions, job satisfaction, and ultimately, the quality of care.

Objective

This study aims to explore the experiences of nurses and midwives with the hospital duty roster at selected health facilities in Ho, the Volta Region of Ghana.

Method

A qualitative research method with a phenomenological approach was employed to capture the nuanced experiences of nurses and midwives regarding the hospital duty roster. A semistructured interview guide facilitated data collection, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of participants’ experiences. Three selected health facilities in Ho, the Volta Region of Ghana, served as the study's location. The study recruited 20 participants (nurses and midwives) to reach data saturation. The collected data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed through thematic content analysis, using a deductive approach. Researchers reviewed the raw data, generating initial codes to capture new concepts of interest.

Results

The duty roster often demonstrated organizational flaws negatively impacting the health, well-being, and job performance of nurses and midwives, consequently affecting patient care quality. The study identified that these healthcare professionals faced significant risks of work-related stress, burnout, and mental health problems due to ineffective coping strategies toward the hospital duty roster. Findings from the study also demonstrated that nurses and midwives prefer day shift because of its short time and the availability of all groups of professionals to help manage cases as compared to a night shift.

Conclusions

The findings underscore factors influencing nurses’ choice of shift patterns, emphasizing the need for further research to explore the extent to which nurses’ preferences are considered when designing hospital duty rosters. Such insights can contribute to improving both the working conditions of healthcare professionals and the overall quality of patient care.
Heart Full of Autoimmunity: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Patil Supreet , Reddy Parvathareddy Krishna Mala Konda , Nagula Praveen , Chintala Vaasanthi
Published: August 2024

Pericardial disorders in connective tissue diseases (CTD) are common and may present as acute or chronic pericarditis. Their presentation as cardiac tamponade is rare. The availability of echocardiography has enhanced the ability to make a early diagnosis of pericardial effusion and tamponade. We report a case of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) manifesting as cardiac tamponade at presentation and review of the literature.
Imputing Unreported Hate Crimes Using Google Search Data
Authors: Dharmapala Dhammika , Huq Aziz
Published: August 2024

U.S. law requires the Attorney General to collect data on hate crime victimization from states and municipalities, but states and localities are under no obligation to cooperate by gathering or sharing information. Data production hence varies considerably across jurisdictions. This paper addresses the ensuing “missing data” problem by imputing unreported hate crimes using Google search rates for a racial epithet. It uses two alternative benchmarks for which jurisdictions more effectively collect hate crime data: all states that were not part of the erstwhile Confederacy, and those states with statutory provisions relating to hate crime reporting. We regress rates of racially-motivated hate crimes with African-American victims on Google searches and other relevant variables over 2004–2015 at the state-year level for each group of benchmark states. Adding the Google search rate for the epithet substantially enhances the model’s predictive power among benchmark states. We use the results of these regressions to impute hate crime rates, out-of-sample, to non-benchmark jurisdictions that do not robustly report hate crimes. The results imply a substantial number of unreported hate crimes, concentrated in particular jurisdictions. It also illustrates how internet search rates can be a source of data on attitudes that are otherwise hard to measure.
Less-deformable erythrocyte subpopulations biomechanically induce endothelial inflammation in sickle cell disease
Authors: Caruso Christina , Cheng Xiaopo , Michaud Marina E. , Szafraniec Hannah M. , Thomas Beena E. , Fay Meredith E. , Mannino Robert G. , Zhang Xiao , Sakurai Yumiko , Li Wei , Myers David R. , Joiner Clinton H. , Wood David K. , Bhasin Manoj , Graham Michael D. , Lam Wilbur A.
Published: August 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is canonically characterized by reduced red blood cell (RBC) deformability, leading to microvascular obstruction and inflammation. Although the biophysical properties of sickle RBCs are known to influence SCD vasculopathy, the contribution of poor RBC deformability to endothelial dysfunction has yet to be fully explored. Leveraging interrelated in vitro and in silico approaches, we introduce a new paradigm of SCD vasculopathy in which poorly deformable sickle RBCs directly cause endothelial dysfunction via mechanotransduction, during which endothelial cells sense and pathophysiologically respond to aberrant physical forces independently of microvascular obstruction, adhesion, or hemolysis. We demonstrate that perfusion of sickle RBCs or pharmacologically-dehydrated healthy RBCs into small venule-sized “endothelialized” microfluidics leads to pathologic physical interactions with endothelial cells that directly induce inflammatory pathways. Using a combination of computational simulations and large venule-sized endothelialized microfluidics, we observed that perfusion of heterogeneous sickle RBC subpopulations with varying deformability, as well as suspensions of dehydrated normal RBCs admixed with normal RBCs, leads to aberrant margination of the less-deformable RBC subpopulations toward the vessel walls, causing localized, increased shear stress. Increased wall stress is dependent on the degree of subpopulation heterogeneity and oxygen tension and leads to inflammatory endothelial gene expression via mechanotransductive pathways. Our multifaceted approach demonstrates that the presence of sickle RBCs with reduced deformability leads directly to pathological physical (ie, direct collisions and/or compressive forces) and shear-mediated interactions with endothelial cells and induces an inflammatory response, thereby elucidating the ubiquity of vascular dysfunction in SCD.
The prevalence of headache disorders in children and adolescents in Benin: a schools-based study
Authors: Agbetou Houessou Mendinatou , Adoukonou Thierry , Tchuenga Fokom Willy , Dovoedo Nelly , Şaşmaz Tayyar , Bozdağ Fatma , Uluduz Derya , Steiner Timothy J.
Published: August 2024

Background

A global schools-based programme within the Global Campaign against Headache is estimating the burden of headache in children (6–11 years) and adolescents (12–17 years), cluster-sampling the world by conducting national studies in all world regions. Its purpose is to complement population-based studies in adults, adding to knowledge of the burden of headache and informing educational and health policies. This study in Benin was the third in the programme from sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

We followed the generic protocol for the global study. In a cross-sectional survey, the child and adolescent versions of the Headache-Attributed Restriction, Disability, Social Handicap and Impaired Participation (HARDSHIP) structured questionnaire were administered to pupils within their classes in 16 schools selected from across the country to be representative of its diversities. Headache diagnostic questions were based on ICHD-3 criteria but for the inclusion of undifferentiated headache (UdH).

Results

Very large proportions of pupils were absent on the survey days. The sampled population defined by class registers totalled 11,802 pupils, of whom only 2,488 were present. A further 193 pupils (or their parents) declined the survey. The surveyed sampled (N = 2,295; males 1,156 [50.4%], females 1,139 [49.6%]) included 1,081 children (47.1%) and 1,214 adolescents (52.9%), with a non-participating proportion (193/2,488) of 7.8%. Headache ever was reported by 97.3% of the sample. Age- and gender-adjusted 1-year prevalences, according to responses given, were 53.4% for migraine (almost three quarters of this being probable migraine), 21.3% for tension-type headache, 8.2% for UdH, 1.0% for probable medication-overuse headache (pMOH) and 2.6% for other headache on ≥ 15 days/month (H15+). Both pMOH and other H15 + were substantially more prevalent among adolescents.

Conclusion

The finding for migraine is anomalous, but, within this series of studies, the same was found in Zambia and similar in Ethiopia, both in SSA. While many cases identified as probable migraine, especially among children, might better have been diagnosed as UdH, the true prevalence of migraine almost certainly exceeds 21%. Regardless of diagnosis, headache is very common among children and adolescents in Benin. The study sounds an alarm with regard to pMOH as a developing problem pre-adulthood.