bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the potential of Tamarindus indica stem short macro fibers reinforced guar gum resin green composites
Authors: Tejavath Ramu , Narender Reddy Karuka Raja
Published: March 2024

In this study, Tamarindus indica stem fibers and guar gum resin matrix have been used for the production of green composites with varying fiber lengths of 4, 8, and 12 mm and fiber loading of 5%, 10%, and 15 wt%, by hand lay-up process. The green composites were subjected to Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, thermal, mechanical, fractography, and water absorption tests as per American Standard Testing of Materials standards. The composites displayed a significant absorption peak at 3303 cm−1, signifying the existence of a hydroxyl group, as indicated by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. The thermogravimetric analysis results showed that the composites were thermally stable up to 225 °C and displayed an endothermic peak at 103 °C. Untreated 4 mm fiber length and 15% fiber loading in the matrix material resulted in superior tensile and flexural characteristics, with values of 23.87 and 33.21 MPa, respectively, compared to other green composites. The composite with a 12 mm fiber length and 5% fiber load exhibited the highest impact resistance, with a load of 75 kJ/mm2, and demonstrated better resistance to water absorption. Furthermore, an eco-friendly flowerpot was developed using the mechanically optimized US0415 green composite material under real-world conditions.
Hybridization in meta-heuristic techniques for green layout design in the tyre manufacturing industry: An optimal analysis
Authors: Sherfudeen Sheik Sulaiman , Athinamilagi Muthiah , Venkataramanujam Janakiraman
Published: March 2024

To stop or lessen factory pollution, many academics in the field of study have produced a vast array of strategies to achieve optimization goals. But, it is unable to follow a uniform solution for all production facilities. In this research work, green layout design (GLD) is proposed to minimize total material handling cost (TMHC) and CO2 emissions. The green facility layout refers to the facility layout with minimum CO2 emissions and to eliminate unnecessary energy dissipation from material handling equipments & production machineries, as well as plant re-layout in-term on material handling cost. In this study context, a Lagrangian relaxation model has been used at the allocation level. It computes a suboptimal solution to the dual problem in order to obtain a feasible solution. This enhanced algorithm method iteratively tries to minimize the gap between the dual and feasible solutions on minimal of TMHC and CO2 emission rate. It has been experimentally simulated using the MATLAB (Matrix Laboratory) application and upgraded adaptive salp swarm optimization (ASSO), dragon fly optimization (DFO) and Hybrid (combination) of ASSO-DFO evolutionary optimization techniques. The primary focus of this implementation is to control material handling between departments or cells, production flow between departments, energy consumption (electrical and gas consumption for production), and manpower utilization within and across departments. This research has chosen an existing and acceptable designs from targeted tyre manufacturing company in South India. The hybrid ASSO-DFO implementation TMHC differs from ABC by 60%, DFO by 65%, 58% with simulated annealing (SA), and ASSO by 48%. Emission rate decreased by 26% ABC, 21% DFO, and 24% SA & 18% with ASSO. An average of 50% decrease in TMHC and 25% reduction of CO2 emission rate in GLD have been achieved.
Experimental and numerical comparisons among various skewed blades of low speed axial fan rotors
Authors: Patel Ankit Bhai , Viswanath K
Published: March 2024

Literature indicates that there is lack of study related to the effects of axially skewed blades on the aerodynamic performance of axial flow fans. In this study rotors of various blade skews, namely, axial, circumferential and axial-circumferential types, are studied and their aerodynamic performances are compared to those of the baseline radial rotors of two types, namely, constant chord and varying chord. The skew in a blade can be considered as combination of sweep and dihedral. The skew change from the circumferential to axial type causes reversal of dihedral induced radial blade force and hence a reversal of meridional streamline curvature which in turn reverses the modulation of the end-wall loads. The inherent forward sweep in the forward skewed blades also modulates hub and tip loads. Thus, in a forward axial skew blade the forward sweep and positive dihedral combine favorably to unload the tip and to upload the hub. In the forward circumferentially skewed blades, forward sweep and the negative dihedral have mutually countering effects on end-wall load modulation. The highlight of this study is that it has demonstrated experimentally the unloading of the tip in the forward axially skewed blades which resulted in reduced losses and better performance including increased stall margin. Reduced tip loading was also verified from the casing pressure sensor measurements which showed weakening of tip vortex. The relative influence of sweep and dihedral on performance was additionally demonstrated in the axially-circumferentially skewed rotor of the constant chord type, with improvements attributable to higher sweep.
ANCA in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. A cross sectional study in Brazilian patients and review of literature
Authors: Nisihara Renato , Vithoft Gabriela , Alencar Isabela , dos Santos Thiago Alberto F. G. , Skare Thelma Larocca
Published: March 2024

Background

Antineutrophil cytoplasmatic antibodies (ANCA) have been detected in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we investigated the presence of ANCA in a sample of Brazilian SLE patients and its possible associations with clinical and serological outcomes. Additionally, we reviewed the literature of on ANCA in SLE.

Results

The presence of ANCA was detected in 130 patients using indirect immunofluorescence (IIF). The test was positive in 29.9% of the cases (17.6% pANCA and 11.5% cANCA). Male sex and peripheral vasculitis were more prevalent in the ANCA-positive sample. cANCA was associated with lupus anticoagulant and pANCA had a positive association with peripheral vasculitis and a negative association with anti- SSB/La antibodies. In the 22 studies included in the literature review, a wide range of ANCA positivity was found (13% to 81.1% by IIF and 0 to 22.2% by ELISA). ANCA was associated with renal damage in the Asian population. Although other associations have been found in isolated studies, they were not consistently reported.

Conclusions

The ANCA prevalence found in this Brazilian sample was within the range reported in the literature and these autoantibodies were more frequent in males and in patients with vasculitis. The literature showed controversial results on the association between ANCA and SLE disease activity or clinical characteristics.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) in the Treatment of Neurological Disorders
Authors: Cheng Muyuan , Ding Yuchuan , Kim Enoch , Geng Xiaokun
Published: March 2024

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is a well-established renal replacement therapy commonly employed in clinical practice. While its primary application is in the treatment of kidney disease, its potential in addressing other systemic disorders, including neurological diseases, has garnered increasing interest. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the related technologies, unique advantages, and clinical applications of PD in the context of neurological disorders. By exploring the mechanism underlying PD, its application in neurological diseases, and associated complications, we addressed the feasibility and benefits of PD as an adjunct therapy for various neurological conditions. Our study aims to highlight its role in detoxification and symptom management, as well as its advantages over other universally accepted methods of renal replacement therapy. Our goal is to bring to the spotlight the therapeutic potential of PD in neurological diseases, such as stroke, stimulate further research, and broaden the scope of its application in the clinical setting.
Public cervical cancer screening recommendations from US cancer centers: Assessing adherence to national guidelines
Authors: Salingaros Sophia , Shieh Yiwey , Finkel Madelon L , Polaneczky Margaret , Korenstein Deborah , Marti Jennifer L
Published: March 2024

Though widespread adoption of cervical cancer screening (CCS) in the US has been associated with a reduction in cervical cancer incidence and mortality, screening also carries with it potential risks. Newer national guidelines recommend decreased screening frequency to optimize the benefit/risk balance and to prevent over-screening. Here, we examined the alignment of US cancer center websites’ public recommendations on CCS with national guidelines. We reviewed the websites of 1024 cancer centers accredited by the US Commission on Cancer during January–August 2022. We recorded the recommended frequency and type of CCS and any screening risks mentioned, comparing against national US Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) and American Cancer Society (ACS) guidelines. Of 1024 US cancer centers, 60% (610) provided CCS recommendations. Most centers are in alignment with the screening starting age (96%, 544/565) and stopping age (94%, 440/470) recommended by national guidelines. Of 508 centers specifying the frequency of standalone cervical cytology, 83% (419) recommended a screening interval of three years; however, 14% (73) recommended cervical cytology more frequently than the three-year interval recommended by the ACS/USPSTF. Screening risks were mentioned by 20% (124/610) of centers. Our findings highlight the importance of education on screening benefits and risks for physicians and patients to enable shared decision making based on evidence-based guidelines.
Salvage of brachiocephalic aneurysmatic fistulas, using ePTFE graft with a minimally invasive approach
Authors: Tamtekin Burak , Ersoy Güler Gülsen
Published: March 2024

Background:

In this study, we evaluated our surgical approach in requiring surgical treatment of brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) aneurysms for salvage of AVF.

Methods:

Between 2012 and 2022, 20 patients (16 men, 4 women; mean age 54.5 years) who were surgically treated for a brachiocephalic AVF aneurysm in our Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic were evaluated retrospectively. These 20 patients were operated on for aneurysm thrombosis and fistula failure in 16 patients, sudden rupture and severe bleeding in 3 patients, cosmetic reasons, and anxiety in 1 patient.

Results:

These aneurysms were ligated and divided from distal and proximal cephalic veins. Then, a 6 mm dialysis graft was interposed between the well-developed cephalic vein distal and proximal to the aneurysm with small skin incisions. All patients were taken to dialysis via this dialysis graft 24 h after the procedure without any problem. All patients were discharged after dialysis. After surgery, no catheterization or any other additional procedure was required for hemodialysis. No complications, such as infection, hematoma, neurological damage, or ischemia, were observed after the surgical procedure. The mean postoperative follow-up was 12 months.

Conclusion:

In brachiocephalic AVF aneurysms requiring surgical treatment, hemodialysis can be continued with a graft placed in the same arm in this technique.
Comparison of ultrasound guided supraclavicular subclavian vein versus infraclavicular subclavian/axillary vein catheterization: A systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Hosur Ravikumar Rajathadri , Majage Siddhavivek , Prasanna Mrudula , Ray Bikash Ranjan
Published: March 2024

Background:

Subclavian vein cannulation is an important technique of central venous cannulation with a supraclavicular and an infraclavicular approach. There are randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which highlight the various differences between these two approaches when accessed via ultrasound. We undertook a meta-analysis to compare the ultrasound guided supraclavicular subclavian and the infraclavicular subclavian/axillary vein cannulation, keeping in mind that the infraclavicular approach may lead to cannulation of either subclavian/axillary vein.

Methods:

This meta-analysis encompassed studies that compared ultrasound-guided supraclavicular subclavian vein and infraclavicular subclavian/axillary vein. Binary outcomes were presented as odds ratios (OR), while continuous outcomes were presented as standardized mean differences (SMD) accompanied by 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Potential trials meeting the eligibility criteria were sought from databases including PubMed, PubMed Central, The Cochrane Library, and EMBASE, covering the period from inception to April 30, 2023.

Results:

The analysis comprised a total of six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one retrospective observational study collectively involving 1812 patients. The first pass success rate for subclavian vein catheterization was found to be greater with the supraclavicular approach (OR = 1.91 [95% CI 1.04–3.50]; p = 0.0002; I2 = 77%). Moreover, the supraclavicular approach exhibited a significantly shorter catheterization time compared to the infraclavicular approach (SMD = −0.26 [95% CI −0.54 to 0.03]; p = 0.003; I2 = 73%). Notably, there was no substantial disparity in complication rates between the two approaches (OR = 0.66 [95% CI 0.35–1.24]; p = 0.20; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion:

Ultrasound-guided supraclavicular approach for subclavian vein catheterization is superior to the infraclavicular approach for subclavian/axillary vein catheterization, with higher first-pass success rates, shorter catheterization times. However, there were no differences in the complication rates.
Factors Associated With Precancerous Cervical Lesions in Human Immunodeficiency Virus–Infected Women: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Togo
Authors: Darré Tchin , Djiwa Toukilnan , Ladekpo Karell Josiane Ogniadé , M’Bortche Bingo K , Douaguibe Baguilane , Aboubakari Abdoul-Samadou , Ekouévi Didier Koumavi , Saka Bayaki
Published: March 2024

Background:

The burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge in developing countries, like Togo. Precancerous lesions include all cellular abnormalities that have malignant potential that can develop into cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with precancerous cervical lesions in HIV-infected women in our context.

Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out from November 31, 2022, to January 31, 2023, in an HIV care center in Lomé (Non-Governmental Organization Espoir Vie Togo [NGO EVT] Grand-Lomé-Togo).

Results:

A total of 271 women were included with a mean age of 47.0 years and a standard deviation of 10.0 years, among whom 20.7% do not have any scholar education. Only 6.7% of them had previously performed cervical smear examinations. The prevalence of precancerous cervical lesions observed in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) was 11.4% with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 5.0 to 15.4. Cytological abnormalities were marked by low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) (5.1%), followed by the presence of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) (3.5%). A statistically significant association was found between parity and the presence of precancerous lesions ( P = .014).

Conclusions:

In this study, more than 1 out of 10 women living with HIV had precancerous cervical lesions, and parity was the factor associated. The implementation of a systematic screening program for precancerous cervical lesions and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection integrated into HIV care is necessary for early treatment.
Consequences of the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on child and adolescent mental, psychosocial, and physical health: A scoping review and interactive evidence map
Authors: Bialy Liza , Elliott Sarah A , Melton Alison , Ali Samina , Scott Shannon D , Knisley Lisa , Hartling Lisa
Published: March 2024

Effects of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on children stem beyond immediate infectious and post-infectious risks. Our aim was to conduct a scoping review and produce an online Interactive Evidence Map (IEM) highlighting available literature around unintended effects of the pandemic on children’s and adolescents’ mental, psychosocial, and physical health. A search was run monthly in MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CENTRAL, and Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register from May 1st 2021 through April 30th 2022. All articles involving children and adolescents under 18 years of age relating to any unintended mental, psychosocial, and physical health consequences of the pandemic and resultant restrictions were included. Data were extracted and topics categorized, with corresponding data uploaded into EPPI-Reviewer and transferred to EPPI-Mapper for visualization. A total of 14,555 citations were screened and 826 (6%) articles included. Most articles reported on mental health outcomes, particularly anxiety ( n = 309, 37%) and depression ( n = 294, 36%). Psychosocial outcomes related to lockdowns such as loneliness ( n = 120, 15%) and impact on adolescent relationships with others ( n = 149, 18%) were also reported. Fewer articles examined physical consequences, but those that did mostly focused on child abuse ( n = 73, 9%). Overall, currently mapped literature focuses on consequences related to mental health outcomes such as anxiety and depression.
Design and evaluation of thermal insulation of air layer for sentry building envelopes
Authors: Chang Zhu , Yin Haiguo , Han Yuekun , Liang Linfeng
Published: March 2024

The prevalence of small-scale structures, such as sentry buildings, has become widespread, with many of these buildings exposed to the outdoor environment and exhibiting suboptimal thermal insulation in their envelopes. Through a comprehensive study of outdoor disturbances, the most unfavourable envelope was identified. In light of this finding, we have designed static air layer sentry buildings (SAL-SB) and dynamic air layer sentry buildings (DAL-SB). The study conducted experiments and numerical simulations to evaluate the impact of air layer thickness, vent opening forms, and inlet velocities on the thermal insulation of sentry buildings. The results showed that both the SAL and DAL effectively improved thermal insulation, and a thickness of 25 cm has been found to offer the best thermal insulation. However, considering the balance between thermal insulation and cost-effectiveness, a thickness of 15 cm is recommended. Additionally, for DAL, an inlet velocity of 3 m/s is the threshold for switching the heat transfer direction on the roof. These findings provide novel insights into enhancing the thermal environment.
Contribution of peer-feedback to the development of teamwork skills
Authors: Díaz-Vicario Anna , Duran-Bellonch Maria del Mar , Ion Georgeta
Published: March 2024

Peer-feedback is a widely-used strategy at the university level for its positive impact on student learning and its multifaceted advantages encompassing social, cognitive, and metacognitive development. However, few studies have assessed its contribution to the development of teamwork skills. This study analyzes students’ perception of how peer-feedback contributes to the development of teamwork skills by comparing the results of two class groups that have taken the same subject, though with different feedback experience designs (face-to-face and mixed feedback vs. non-face-to-face and written feedback, with or without consensus among group members). At the end of the study, 82 participants completed a questionnaire to assess their perception of the peer-feedback experience and its impact on learning and the development of teamwork skills. The findings reveal that students perceive that giving and receiving feedback in face-to-face mixed modality contributes more to developing teamwork skills; however, the presence or absence of consensus among group members to give or receive feedback does not appear to exert a clear impact on the development of these skills. Additionally, the findings suggest that students perceive a greater development of teamwork skills by giving feedback rather than receiving it. These results highlight the importance for teachers to consider such aspects when designing peer-feedback experiences, aiming to maximize the impact on the development of teamwork skills.
That I can wait: The effect of promotion framing on consumer preferences
Authors: Yuan Xina , Xie Yi (Fionna) , Wang Ping , Liu Renfang
Published: March 2024

Sales managers often struggle to create effective combinations of promotion framing and promotion reward timing. However, whether gain-framing (vs. loss-reduction framing) promotions are better suited to be combined with immediate or delayed promotions remains an open question. In three studies, we show that the gain (vs. loss-reduction) framing of promotion information activates a high (vs. low) construal level, which leads to a higher preference for delayed (vs. immediate) promotions. We also find that time perception moderates the proposed effect. Specifically, consumers with time-overestimating (vs. time-underestimating) perception are more likely to choose immediate (delayed) promotions when they are at a low (high) construal level. Our findings provide insights for marketers and retailers that consumers would like to wait for a higher reward in a longer horizon under the gain promotion frame, while they prefer an immediate reward even if the benefit is much lower under the loss-reduction promotion frame.
Detecting wire breaks in prestressed concrete pipes: an easy-to-install distributed fibre acoustic sensing approach
Authors: Rueda-García Lisbel , Tasquer-Val Daniel , Calderón-Bofías Pedro , Calderón Pedro A
Published: March 2024

The escalating water stress resulting from drought conditions in certain global regions underscores the imperative to minimize water losses, particularly within drinking water supply networks. One way to achieve this is by improving pipe monitoring systems to allow the early detection of possible structural collapse of the pipes. One type of pipe widely used in water mains is the prestressed concrete pipe, whose main cause of structural failure is the breakage of prestressing wires. This research paper analyses the ability of an easy-to-install distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) monitoring system using fibre optics to identify and locate the acoustic signal produced by the wire breaks in prestressed concrete pipes to make early detection of possible structural failures. For this purpose, a large experimental pipeline stretch was built (approximately 1 m in diameter and 40 m long) where wire breaks were simulated. Several variables were studied: the origin of the signal (to distinguish wire breaks from events of a similar nature), the location of the event in the pipe, the presence of background noise, the internal water pressure, the length of the prestressed wire not subject to bonding with the concrete and the presence of water in the pipe. The results showed that the DAS system could detect almost all events. In addition, two of the multiple parameters measured in the signals, the zero-crossing rate and the short-time energy, made it possible to precisely determine the signal’s origin and the event’s location. Another parameter measured, the duration of the signal in this case, made it possible to differentiate whether the events had occurred when the pipe was empty or full of water. These and other results in this paper present a highly promising perspective on using this DAS system in water main monitoring.
Effectiveness of a Multidisciplinary Limb Preservation Program in Reducing Regional Hospitalization Rates for Patients With Diabetes-Related Foot Complications
Authors: Manji Ali , Basiri Reza , Harton Francois , Rommens Kenton , Manji Karim
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study evaluated the toe and flow model (TFM), a limb preservation program led by podiatric surgeons in Alberta, Canada, for its impact on hospitalization rates and length of stay (LOS) in patients with diabetic foot complication (DFC). Diabetes, a leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations (LEAs) in Canada, often results in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), a major cause of infection, amputation, and hospitalization. TFM has reportedly reduced amputation rates by 39% to 56%.

Methods

The study analyzed Alberta's health database from 2007 to 2017, focusing on diabetes patients aged 20 and above. It included patients with various DFCs and compared outcomes in regions using TFM and standard of care (SOC). The study also examined data from two major cities, one with TFM and the other without, including rural referrals to Calgary and Edmonton. The data were normalized for the diabetic population and analyzed using a standard Student’s t-test.

Results

TFM regions showed significantly lower hospitalization rates ( p = 1.22E-12) than SOC regions. Over 11 years, TFM maintained lower average and median LOS by 0.13 and 0.26 days, respectively. TFM access reduced hospitalization risk by up to 30%, and patients in TFM regions had a 21% shorter LOS compared to SOC regions.

Conclusion

Despite similar demographics and healthcare systems, the TFM region benefited from a dedicated multidisciplinary program and comprehensive limb preservation services. The study shows that TFM effectively reduces hospitalizations and LOS for DFCs, with significantly better outcomes in the TFM region than in SOC regions.
The Influence of Agent Transparency and Complexity on Situation Awareness, Mental Workload, and Task Performance
Authors: van de Merwe Koen , Mallam Steven , Nazir Salman , Engelhardtsen Øystein
Published: March 2024

Transparency is a design principle intended to make the inner workings of autonomous agents visible to end-users such that humans can evaluate the reasoning behind its decisions and actions. To test the effect of agent transparency on situation awareness, mental workload, and task performance, an experiment was performed where 34 nautical navigators were tasked with interpreting the information provided by an autonomous collision and grounding avoidance system. Sixteen traffic situations were created with two levels of complexity. Four levels of transparency varied the amount and type of information in terms of the system’s decisions, planned actions, reasoning, and input parameters. The results show that increased transparency improves SA without increasing mental workload. However, the time to comprehend the system’s decisions and planned actions increased when its reasoning was depicted. Traffic complexity impaired SA, mental workload, and time-to-comprehension regardless of transparency level. However, for level 2 SA, transparency was found to negate the influence of complexity, resulting in improved comprehension of the agent’s reasoning despite high traffic complexity. These outcomes demonstrate the merits of agent transparency as a design principle in supporting human supervision of autonomous agents. However, developers should take care when extending these principles to time-critical applications.
Novel Image-Guided Percutaneous Lung Tissue Excision Device With Integrated Sealing of Blood Vessels and Airways: An In Vivo Preclinical Study
Authors: Salazar Jorge E. , Fischel Richard , Bueche Kenneth M. , Samra Kian , Gonzalez Laura , Nathan Joanna C. , Lu Carolyne , Rodriguez Joanna , Nguyen Steven , Cohn William E. , Boyle Edward
Published: March 2024

Objective:

This study evaluated the efficacy of the Minimally Invasive Targeted Resection (MiTR) device, a novel electrosurgical instrument that allows for targeted excision of a lung abnormality while using bipolar radiofrequency (RF) energy to seal blood vessels and airways.

Methods:

The MiTR system was evaluated in 7 acute and 2 chronic porcine (7-day) models to evaluate the efficacy of tissue excision with bipolar RF sealing of blood vessels and airways and application of an autologous blood patch into the excised tissue cavity. Air leak was recorded for all evaluations. The study was approved by the institutional ethical board.

Results:

Nineteen lung tissue samples, measuring 2.5 cm long × 1.2 cm diameter, were excised. In 8 of 9 animals (89%), hemostasis and pneumostasis were observed visually at the completion of the procedure. In 2 of 2 chronic animals (100%), hemostasis and pneumostasis persisted for the 7-day observation period. Histologic examination of the excised samples showed preservation of the core parenchymal architecture without evident tissue damage of the samples that would impair pathologic analysis.

Conclusions:

Percutaneous resection of targeted lung tissue with the MiTR system demonstrated hemostasis and pneumostasis while obtaining a histologically intact sample. After regulatory approval, the use of this device could offer more tissue for analysis than a transthoracic needle biopsy or bronchoscopy and a far less invasive alternative to video-assisted thoracic surgery or thoracotomy. This may also expand patient and physician options for the early diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
Cannula to Femoral Artery Diameter Ratio Predicts Potential Lower-Limb Ischemia in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery With Femoral Cannulation
Authors: Nishijima Takuya , Ushijima Tomoki , Fuke Yoshifumi , Kan-o Meikun , Kimura Satoshi , Sonoda Hiromichi , Shiose Akira
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Lower-limb ischemia is a complication of minimally invasive cardiac surgery with femoral cannulation. Herein, we verified our strategy using distal perfusion cannulation (DPC) against this complication.

Methods:

We retrospectively assessed 91 cases of aortic valve replacement with femoral cannulation between January 2019 and March 2023. DPC was applied when lower-limb tissue oxygenation index declined by ≥20%. The cannula to femoral artery diameter ratio (C/FA) was calculated by dividing the cannula size (Fr) divided by 3 by the femoral artery inner diameter (mm). Postoperative maximum creatinine kinase (CKmax), lactate dehydrogenase (LDHmax), and lactate levels were analyzed, and univariable logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were employed to determine DPC predictors and the cutoff C/FA for DPC, respectively. Patients without DPC were divided into 2 subgroups based on the cutoff C/FA for further comparisons.

Results:

DPC was required in 9 patients. Symptomatic ischemia was not observed. All laboratory data were similar in the DPC and non-DPC groups. C/FA was significantly associated with DPC (odds ratio = 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.09 to 1.47, P = 0.002), and the cutoff C/FA was 0.70 (sensitivity = 0.89, specificity = 0.80). In the non-DPC group, CKmax ( P = 0.027) and LDHmax ( P = 0.041) were significantly higher in patients with C/FA ≥0.7 ( n = 16) than in those with C/FA <0.7 ( n = 66).

Conclusions:

Our strategy for preventing symptomatic ischemia is reasonable and could be almost achieved without DPC when C/FA is <0.7. C/FA also predicts asymptomatic potential ischemia, and proactive DPC is preferable when C/FA is ≥0.7.
The association between drugs and repeated treatment with budesonide in patients with microscopic colitis: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Bjurström Oliver , Karling Pontus
Published: March 2024

Background:

Smoking and the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and statins have been associated with microscopic colitis (MC).

Objectives:

We investigated whether these factors were associated with repeated budesonide treatments in patients diagnosed with MC.

Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Methods:

All patients with a histologically verified diagnosis of MC at our clinic between the years 2006 and 2022 were identified. Baseline factors and drugs prescribed before and after diagnosis were registered. The influence of risk factors on the odds of having a prescription of oral budesonide and the odds of having a second course of budesonide was studied.

Results:

Patients with MC ( n = 183) with a mean age of 62.3 years [standard deviation (SD): 13.3 years] were followed for a median of 5 years (25th–75th percentile 4–10 years) after diagnosis. In all, 138 patients (75%) had at least one prescription of budesonide after diagnosis, and 90 patients (49%) had at least one clinical relapse treated with budesonide. Patients who had been prescribed NSAIDs within 1 year before clinical relapse had higher odds for clinical relapse [odds ratio (OR): 3.70, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06–12.9] but there was no increased risk for clinical relapse for the use of ASA (OR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.39–2.90), PPIs (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.45–2.63), SSRI (OR: 1.41, 95% CI: 0.82–2.44), or statins (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.35–1.99). No association was seen between being a smoker and/or being prescribed NSAID, ASA, PPI, SSRI, and statins at baseline and the odds of having a prescription of oral budesonide within 1 year after diagnosis.

Conclusion:

The risk of being prescribed a second course of budesonide is associated with receiving a prescription of NSAIDs but not with the use of ASA, PPIs, SSRIs, and statins.
A prospective, randomized, blinded study on the efficacy of using corticosteroids in hydrodilatation as a treatment for adhesive capsulitis of the shoulder
Authors: Gebellí-Jové Joan Tomàs , Buñuel-Viñau Antonio , Canela-Capdevila Marta , Camps Jordi , Sabench Fàtima , Iftimie-Iftimie Petrea
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to compare hydrodilatation with or without corticosteroid administration on the outcomes of patients with shoulder adhesive capsulitis.

Methods

This was a prospective, randomized, blinded study of 82 patients with adhesive capsulitis treated with hydrodilatation with corticosteroids (HDC) or without corticosteroids (HDA). Assessments were performed at 48 h and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

Pain in HDC patients was significantly lower after 48 h of treatment than that of HDA, and the functional scales were better after the first month. These differences were maintained after 1 year. (visual analog scale: 0.8 vs. 1.6, p = 0.018; shoulder pain and disability index: 4.8 vs. 9.8, p = 0.003; simple shoulder test: 11.4 vs. 8.7, p = 0.008; subjective shoulder value: 96.6 vs. 90.1, p = 0.024).

Conclusion

We found that hydrodilatation with corticosteroids improved pain levels, shoulder function, and subjective perception of shoulder status compared to hydrodilatation without corticosteroids.
Advancing Diabetes Management: The Future of Enzyme-Less Nanoparticle-Based Glucose Sensors—A Review
Authors: Boucheta Hana , Zouaoui Emna , Ferkous Hana , Madaci Anis , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Benguerba Yacine
Published: March 2024

Background:

Glucose is vital for biological processes, requiring blood sugar levels to be maintained between 3.88 and 6.1 mmol/L, especially during fasting. Elevated levels signal diabetes, a global concern affecting 537 million people, necessitating effective glucose-monitoring devices.

Method:

Enzyme-based sensors, though selective, are sensitive to environmental factors. Nonenzymatic sensors, especially those with nanoparticles, offer stability, high surface area, and cost-effectiveness. Existing literature supports their immediate glucose oxidation, showcasing exceptional sensitivity.

Results:

This review details nonenzymatic sensors, highlighting materials, detection limits, and the promise of nanoparticle-based designs, which exhibit enhanced sensitivity and selectivity in glucose detection.

Conclusion:

Nanoparticle-based sensors, as reviewed, show potential for glucose monitoring, overcoming enzyme-based limitations. The conclusion suggests future directions for advancing these sensors, emphasizing ongoing innovation in this critical research area.
Own and Partner Attachment Insecurity Interact to Predict Marital Satisfaction and Dissolution
Authors: Peters Sierra D. , Meltzer Andrea L. , McNulty James K.
Published: March 2024

Conventional wisdom suggests that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Echoing this sentiment, theoretical perspectives on close relationships suggest that the synergistic combination of both partners’ personal qualities can influence relationship outcomes above and beyond the simple additive influence of each partner’s qualities. Yet, empirical research leaves it unclear whether the interactive effects of own and partner attachment insecurity, one of the most notable individual difference predictors of relationship outcomes, predicts relationship dissolution, one of the most notable relationship outcomes. We combined data from five independent longitudinal studies of 539 newlywed couples to address this issue. Three of the four interactive combinations (all except own attachment avoidance × partner attachment avoidance) predicted marital dissolution serially through (a) initial marital satisfaction and (b) changes in satisfaction. Findings provide evidence of interactive attachment effects and underscore the importance of both couple members’ characteristics for maintaining satisfying romantic relationships.
Delving into disengagement as a distinct construct: A proposed research agenda for public relations scholars
Authors: Lemon Laura L , Pitts Laura , McKee Amelia
Published: March 2024

Public relations scholars have greatly impacted the understanding of employee engagement in terms of definitions, theory development, antecedents, outcomes, and progressing scholarship to explore changes in the modern workplace. Yet, understanding the nuances around being disengaged is absent from most of the public relations literature. In addition, although much is known about the connection between employee engagement and internal communication, little has been identified about how internal communication contributes to or ameliorates the experience of being disengaged. Therefore, public relations researchers have the chance to move scholarship on disengagement forward by examining it as a unique concept separate from engagement and exploring the function of internal communication with disengagement.
Psychological safety, social support, and commitment among nurse managers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Hirvikallio Jenni , Haaranen Ari , Hult Marja
Published: March 2024

While the experience of psychological safety among nursing staff has been studied, there needs to be more research on the perceived psychological safety of nurse managers. Generally, nurse managers are committed to their work, but the COVID-19 pandemic increased their intentions to leave. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationships between psychological safety, social support, and commitment among nurse managers. The data were collected in 2023 through a web-based survey from Finnish social and healthcare workers’ trade union members. Of the 4573 participants, this study further focused on 366 nurse managers and are reported in accordance with the STROBE checklist. Findings revealed that nurse managers’ perceived psychological safety was higher than among other workers. Nurse managers in public healthcare perceived lower psychological safety than managers in private and third sectors. A mediation model showed that social support partly mediated the positive effect of psychological safety on commitment. A psychologically safe environment enables more social support, thus enhancing the commitment. Dedicated nurse managers play a crucial role as a fundamental asset within the healthcare system.
Low-Income, Poor Physical Health, Poor Mental Health, and Other Social Risk Factors Are Associated With Decreased Access to Care in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Boddu Sayi P. , Lin Eugenia , Gill Vikram S. , Hinckley Nathaniel B. , Lai Cara H. , Renfree Kevin J.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is associated with a significant personal and societal burden. Evaluating access to care can identify barriers, limitations, and disparities in the delivery of healthcare services in this population. The purpose of this study was to evaluate access to overall healthcare and healthcare utilization among patients with CTS.

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study conducted with the All of Us database. Patients diagnosed with CTS that completed the access to care survey were included and matched to a control group. The primary outcomes were access to care across 4 domains: (1) delayed care, (2) could not afford care, (3) skipped medications, and (4) over 1 year since seeing provider. Secondary analysis was then performed to identify patient-specific factors associated with reduced access to care.

Results:

In total, 7649 patients with CTS were included and control matched to 7649 patients without CTS. In the CTS group, 33.7% (n = 2577) had delayed care, 30.4% (n = 2323) could not afford care, 15.4% (n = 1180) skipped medications, and 1.6% (n = 123) had not seen a provider in more than 1 year. Within the CTS cohort, low-income, worse physical health, and worse mental health were associated with poor access to care.

Conclusion:

Patients experience notable challenges with delayed care, affordability of care, and medication adherence regardless of having a diagnosis of CTS. Targeted interventions on modifiable risk factors such as low income, poor mental health, and poor physical health are important opportunities to improve access to care in this population.
Culturally Responsive/Sustaining Transition for At-Promise Youth
Authors: Jez Rebekka J.
Published: March 2024

At-promise students with disabilities benefit when educators implement culturally responsive/sustaining postsecondary transition practices. Yet, many educators lack the training and resources necessary to support culturally, ethnically, economically, and linguistically diverse youth and their families. To address this gap, the Culturally Responsive/Sustaining Transition Portfolio (CRSTP) assists educators, students, and families in preparing for postsecondary transition while respecting the values of families. This study assesses the usefulness of the CRSTP by training 45 preservice teachers on culturally responsive/sustaining transition practices using the CRSTP, and then having them reflect on the product and process using the 11-item online reflective survey. Educators reported the CRSTP was a promising tool for applying culturally responsive/sustaining transition practices, building relationships, and collaborating with students and families. Findings indicate the CRSTP guided students in developing self-awareness, self-advocacy, and goal planning. The evaluation of this promising and practical educational tool holds the potential to impact at-promise youth, families, and educators.
The Importance of Multimodal Resources for Micro-Oriented Analyses of Interactions: A Case Study of Emergent Leadership in a Hybrid Meeting
Authors: Janssens Julie , Van De Mieroop Dorien
Published: March 2024

In this article we argue in favor of the fine-grained, integrated analysis of multimodal resources for the study of interaction in organizational contexts. For the case presented here, we use video recordings of an authentic hybrid meeting during which the superior is absent for the majority of the interaction. We scrutinize in particular how proximal and distal deontic claims are made and leadership thus emerges in this meeting, which turns out to be out of sheer necessity to ensure the progressivity of the activity. Given that there is thus no explicit struggle over leadership, many subtle semiotic resources—such as gaze, gestures, nodding and paralinguistic features—are used to enact deontic stances. This makes this case of emergent leadership particularly interesting as it demonstrates the importance of an integrated, nonlogocentric approach to obtain a fuller insight into how meaning—and leadership—is negotiated in day-to-day interactions in organizational contexts.
Macular Holes in Tractional Retinal Detachments Secondary to Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Sharma Neha , Akotoye Christian , Perkins Scott , Sastry Resya , Wu Anna K. , Singh Rishi P. , Franklin Alan J. , Rachitskaya Aleksandra
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To characterize the visual outcomes and rate of macular hole (MH) closure with tractional retinal detachment (TRD) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods: Visit data of patients who had pars plana vitrectomy were retrospectively reviewed; patient demographics, other procedure(s), the MH closure rate, and visual outcomes were also collected. Paired t, Fisher exact, and Mann-Whitney U tests were performed. Results: Ten patients (10 eyes) developed a TRD MH; 3 distinct MH presentations were identified. At the 3-month follow-up, 90% of MHs remained closed without the need for further reoperation (n = 6, type 1 closure; n = 3, type 2 closure). All MHs were closed 12 months after the initial surgery, with 1 eye requiring a single reoperation. The mean visual acuity (VA) at baseline and at 12 months was 20/235 and 20/138, respectively. Conclusions: MHs in the setting of fibrovascular proliferation resulting from PDR present with varied morphology. There is a high rate of MH closure and a trend toward improved VA.
Reforms and coalition building around the reindeer pastoralism of the Indigenous Sámi people in Sweden, 2012–2022
Authors: Harnesk David , O’Byrne David
Published: March 2024

In Sweden, Indigenous Sámi reindeer pastoralists must find effective ways to improve ecological conditions conducive to natural pasture-based reindeer pastoralism in a rapidly changing environment. In particular, they must challenge the conventional climate policy agenda of the dominant economic and political actors. This paper seeks to contribute to the emergence of a social movement that can push for reforms towards such improvements. Theoretically, we combine a theory of hegemony and counter-hegemonic politics, and the contentious politics approach to social movement theory, to discuss how meaningful reforms could be achieved by assembling a broad social coalition. Empirically, we examine 10 years of data from a public media outlet that reports on Sámi issues to show what demands are being made, who is making them, and the reforms and changes in social relations that they imply. The analysis identifies current coalitions and demand clusters. We discuss potential opportunities for a new reform agenda and actor constellations, with a focus on rural and Indigenous cultures and livelihoods, in relation to a broader environmental movement.
The determinants of actual place of death among noncancer patients with end-stage chronic health conditions: a scoping review
Authors: Ginggeaw Sangduan , LeBlanc Raeann
Published: March 2024

A home is a preferred place of death by most people. Nurses play a key role in supporting end-of-life home care, yet less is known about the factors that determine home as a place of death. This scoping review describes the percentage of actual places of death and determines social factors related to home as the place of death among noncancer patients with end-stage chronic health conditions. Inclusion criteria included (1) noncancer chronic illness conditions, (2) outcomes of place of death, and (3) factors that determine home as a place of death. Sources of evidence included PubMed, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases, which were searched in May 2022, and additional searches from May 2022 to November 2023.The JBI scoping review guide (2020) and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Scoping Review extension were used. Twenty-eight studies were included in this analysis. The range of percentages is varied within the same place of death among the sample. Two major constructs that determine a home as a place of death were identified: preceding factors and social capital. The results suggest that the place of death among noncancer patients with end-stage chronic health conditions should be continued to be understood. Two constructs determined home as a place of death and are considered as a fundamental to increasing equal accessibility in the initiation of palliative care services to promote home death and meet end-of-life care goals.