bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid Dominant Toxic Tumor Syndrome
Authors: Puthussery Jose Cijin , Wagner William , Singh Arun D.
Published: December 2024

Objective: To describe clinical features of lipid dominant toxic tumor syndrome as a chronic variant of toxic tumor syndrome and report outcomes following use of intravitreal steroids.

Design: Retrospective interventional case series.

Subjects, Participants, and/or Controls: Records of thirteen patients who had lipid dominant toxic tumor syndrome following treatment of choroidal melanoma with episcleral plaque brachytherapy (EPB) were reviewed.

Methods, Intervention, or Testing: Retrospective case series.

Main Outcome Measures: Resolution of Lipid exudates, subfoveal subretinal fluid, cystoid macular edema, exudative detachment.

Results: Of the thirteen patients who developed lipid dominant toxic tumor syndrome, 11(85%) had medium-sized melanomas, and 2(15%) small-sized melanomas. Average time to onset following EPB was 22 months (range 3-48 months). 7 patients (54%) were noted to have dyslipidemia. The baseline mean visual acuity at the time of diagnosis of toxic tumor syndrome (TTS) was 50 ETDRS letters (range 10 to 85). Ophthalmic characteristics were lipid exudates centered around the tumor base in 13(100%) patients, subfoveal subretinal fluid in 4(31%) patients and cystoid macular edema (CME) in 2(15%) patients. Exudative detachment was absent in all (100%) patients. Regressed melanoma was present in all (100%) patients. Eight (62%) patients were treated with intravitreal steroids (4mg triamcinolone) while 5 patients (38%) were observed. The
response to intravitreal steroid was noted in 7(88%) of the treated patients, with the average time to resolution being 1.9 months. Features characterizing a positive response were reduction in lipid exudates centered around the tumor base (100%),
reduction in subfoveal subretinal fluid (100%), and reduction in CME (50%). Cataract development was seen in 10 (83%) and ocular hypertension in 3 patients (23%). Proliferative radiation retinopathy developed in 2(15%) patients, neovascular glaucoma developed in 1(8%) while no patients required enucleation.

Conclusions: The lipid dominant toxic tumor syndrome centered around the tumor base that occurs in a radiation responsive tumor could be considered a chronic variant in the spectrum of the toxic tumor syndrome. Intravitreal steroids in selected cases reverses the course of this variant, stabilizing or improving the vision. Our observations would need to be verified through a larger prospective study.
Clinical Management and Transplant Considerations in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Due to Left Heart Disease: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Hopper Rachel K. , Hansmann Georg , Hollander Seth A. , Dipchand Anne I. , van der Have Oscar , Iler Colleen , Herrington Cynthia , Rosenzweig Erika B. , Alejos Juan C. , Tran-Lundmark Karin ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Cardiopulmonary, Critical Care, Perioperative & Resuscitation; Council on Clinical Cardiology; and Council on Cardiovascular Stroke Nursing
Published: December 2024

Children with left heart disease are at risk for developing pulmonary hypertension, initially secondary to pulmonary venous hypertension that can progress to include elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, known as combined pre- and postcapillary pulmonary hypertension. Elevated pulmonary vascular resistance may pose a risk to the right ventricle of a newly transplanted heart because of increased afterload and is an important consideration for heart transplant eligibility. However, the epidemiology, pathophysiology, optimal diagnostic and treatment approaches, and thresholds for pulmonary vascular resistance in pulmonary hypertension associated with left heart disease remain unclear because of lack of evidence, particularly in pediatrics. The result is heterogeneity with respect to hemodynamic assessment, use of pulmonary vasodilator therapies, and heart transplant listing. This scientific statement aims to synthesize the available data and highlight areas of general consensus as well as important knowledge gaps.
Morpho-molecular characterization of two Pleosporales species, Montagnula thevetiae and Thyridaria thailandica sp. nov. in northern Thailand
Authors: TUN ZAW LIN , BHUNJUN CHITRABHANU S. , MAHARACHCHIKUMBURA SAJEEWA S. N. , ALOTIBI FATIMAH , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: December 2024

In this study, a new record of Montagnula, and a new species in Thyridaria are introduced based on morphological characteristics and multi-phylogenetic analyses of SSU, LSU, ITS, tef-1α, and rpb2 sequences. These isolates were obtained from dead woody litter in northern Thailand. The newly isolated Montagnula thevetiae (Didymosphaeriaceae) shares similar characteristics to other Montagnula species by having immersed, globose, reddish-brown to brown ascomata with papillate ostioles. Additionally, multi-gene phylogenetic analysis placement of M. thevetiae within the genus Montagnula. The novel species, Thyridaria thailandica (Thyridariaceae) shares similar characteristics to other Thyridaria taxa by having globose to subglobose and ostiolate ascomata and it is phylogenetically closely related to T. aureobrunnea. However, T. thailandica has larger ascomata and asci compared to T. aureobrunnea. This study provides updated information on the taxonomy of Montagnula and Thyridaria taxa, based on morphology and phylogenetic evidence.
Pyrularia: A newly recorded genus of Cervantesiaceae from Vietnam
Authors: LE CHI TOAN , NGUYEN VAN DU , HA MINH TAM , PHAM THI BICH HA , HOANG TUAN PHUONG NGUYEN , PHAM THANH HUYEN , LIU BING
Published: December 2024

Pyrularia (Cervantesiaceae), a small genus previously known from eastern Asia (Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sikkim) and eastern United States, is newly recorded from Vietnam. The specimen was discovered in the rainforest of Lao Cai province, northern Vietnam, and was identified as P. edulis (Wall.) A. DC. based on both morphological and molecular data. This study updates our knowledge on the geographic distribution of the genus Pyrularia. The taxonomic key is provided to distinguish Pyrularia and its related genus Scleropyrum.
State Dependency of Dynamic and Thermodynamic Contributions to Effective Precipitation Changes
Authors: Braschoss Laura , Weitzel Nils , Baudouin Jean-Philippe , Rehfeld Kira
Published: December 2024

Reliable projections of the future hydrological cycle are needed for designing adaptation and mitigation measures under global warming. However, uncertainties in the projected sign and magnitude of effective precipitation changes (precipitation minus evaporation, P − E) remain high. Here, we examine the state dependency of circulation, temperature, and relative humidity contributions to P − E changes in simulations of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), mid-Holocene, and abrupt quadrupling of the atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration. To this purpose, we apply a moisture budget decomposition and a thermodynamic scaling approximation to CMIP6/PMIP4 simulations with the Earth system model MPI-ESM1.2. We find that the importance of thermodynamic and dynamic contributions to P − E changes and the patterns of dynamic contributions depend strongly on the underlying forcing. Greenhouse gas forcing leads to a stronger thermodynamic response than dynamic response. The LGM ice sheets yield a large dynamic contribution with zonally heterogeneous patterns. Orbital forcing induces a predominantly dynamic response with a hemispherically antisymmetric structure. We also identify state-invariant features: The importance of temperature and relative humidity contributions to specific humidity changes is consistent across states, and the wet-get-wetter–dry-get-drier paradigm proposed for global warming holds in almost all regions dominated by thermodynamic contributions. By definition, the P − E budget and the respective thermodynamic, dynamic, and transient eddy contributions vanish in the global mean. Moreover, we find that for increasing length scales, the spatial variability of these contributions decays with similar rates. We suggest repeating our analysis for more models and states which could help constrain hydroclimate projections.

Significance Statement

We aim at improving our understanding of the influence of changes in winds and water vapor on the local balance between precipitation and evaporation. To this end, we compare simulations for two past climate states with an idealized high carbon dioxide concentration scenario. We find characteristics that depend on the underlying state and characteristics that are consistent across states. Our results help to identify what we can learn from past climate states about precipitation changes under future greenhouse gas emission scenarios. So far, we only analyzed simulations from one model. Therefore, we suggest to repeat our analysis with more models and for more past climate states to confirm our results.
Contemporary Nationwide Assessment of Resource Utilization and Perioperative Outcomes in Open and Minimally Invasive Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Aryal Bibek , Yin Yue , Joseph Edward A. , Bartlett David L. , Chalikonda Sricharan , Allen Casey J.
Published: December 2024

Background: While minimally invasive pancreaticoduodenectomy (MIPD) has historically demonstrated benefits over open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD), recent advances in perioperative care and surgical techniques may have impacted the relative advantages of these two approaches. This contemporary analysis examines national trends to assess potential differences in resource utilization metrics along with perioperative outcomes between the two approaches. Methods: We analyzed the Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for cancer patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomies from 2016 through 2020. We compared socio-demographics, length of stay (LOS), total charges, and perioperative complications between MIPD and OPD. Results: In this observational study, MIPD was associated with lower total charges ($97,470 vs $126,586), shorter LOS (5.05 vs 7.37 days), and lower odds of perioperative complications (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.18-1.65) compared to OPD. While total charges increased similarly in both groups over time, a declining trend in LOS was observed for OPD (11.49 to 10.36 days). Non-white race and private/other insurance correlated with longer stays, higher charges, and more complications regardless of surgical approach. Conclusions: Despite the gradual improvements in LOS observed with OPD, MIPD demonstrated advantages in resource utilization metrics, indicating potential for reduced healthcare utilization and costs compared to the open surgical approach during the study period. Continued prospective investigation is warranted to comprehensively evaluate MIPD’s value proposition.
Rental Market Risk and Radical Right Support
Authors: Abou-Chadi Tarik , Cohen Denis , Kurer Thomas
Published: December 2024

A growing literature examines how economic threat affects support for anti-establishment parties. While most existing work focuses on transforming labor markets as a source of anxiety, we advance the literature by studying changes in urban development and rent price appreciation. Our analysis examines the case of Germany, the country with the highest share of rental housing in the European Union. Combining individual-level geo-referenced panel data with a longitudinal data set on the cost of rental housing at the postcode level, we demonstrate that rising local rent levels increase support for radical right parties among long-term residents with lower household incomes, in particular in urban areas. Our results suggest that urban development, not unlike labor market transformation, represents an important and so far neglected source of economic insecurity and social concern with important political implications.
Transforming Gender Relations through Digital Financial Inclusion in India
Authors: Sinha Geeta , Nayak Bhabani Shankar
Published: December 2024

This article provides a brief overview of digital financial inclusion for marginalised and vulnerable populations, particularly women. The focus is on understanding the status and how digital financial inclusion for women is critical for achieving gender parity, their empowerment and overall gender equality. The article assesses the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), which claims to promote financial inclusion and gender equality by extending and expanding affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance and pensions. The framework of intersectionality is used to theorise digital financial inclusion and its implications for marginalised and vulnerable sections of society, followed by policy recommendations.
Computational analysis of free-corner-induced failure of thick angle-ply composite laminates established upon a global-local model
Authors: Mahmoodi Mohammad J. , Khamehchi Masoumeh
Published: December 2024

The complex three-dimensional (3D) state of interlaminar stresses in the vicinity of a free corner in composite laminates brings about delamination, matrix cracking, and overall failure. This study focuses on devising a straightforward and efficient computational framework for analyzing the free-corner-induced failures in mechanically and thermally-loaded thick angle-ply composite laminates based on an innovative global-local finite element model. In so doing, the global region is dealt with by the first-order shear deformation theory, and the local sub-model region near the free corner is scrutinized using the 3D layer-wise theory. Distinctive risk parameters associated with the meso-level damage modes, including ply failure, delamination, and transverse matrix cracking are well-defined under the corresponding criteria. The precision of the model is ensured through verifications in which satisfactory alignment between the current outcomes and those of other available works in the literature substantiates the efficacy of the proposed approach. Furthermore, the impacts of the configuration parameters such as fiber orientation and thickness of plies upon the risk parameters are fully examined. It is found that, generally, by increasing the angle of fibers between two adjacent layers and diminishing the ply thickness, the composite laminate becomes more critical. The matrix cracking mode is dominated regarding the delamination and is in close agreement with the ply failure analysis. The proposed computational infrastructure, occasioning time and financial savings is valuable and enlightening for designing and manufacturing composite structures.
Adolescents’ Self-Reported Exposure to Advertisements for Flavored Tobacco Products After Implementation of a Statewide Ban on Flavored Tobacco Product Sales and Advertising in Massachusetts
Authors: Clark Danielle , Emmons Karen , Hanby Elaine , Liu Jessica , Reynolds Matthew J. , Winickoff Jonathan , Tan Andy S.L.
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

Massachusetts signed into law An Act Modernizing Tobacco Control (hereinafter, the Act) in 2019, which restricted retail sales of flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes. This study assessed differences in advertising exposure to flavored tobacco products among adolescents in Massachusetts compared with adolescents in 4 neighboring states after passage of the Act.

Methods:

We collected monthly cross-sectional survey data from April 2021 through August 2022 among a convenience sample of adolescents (aged 13-17 y) in Massachusetts and 4 control states: Connecticut, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. We measured self-reported past-30-day exposure to advertising for flavored electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) products and flavored cigarettes or other tobacco products across 9 channels.

Results:

After implementation of the Act, adolescents in Massachusetts, compared with adolescents in the 4 control states, reported significantly lower levels of exposure to advertisements for flavored e-cigarettes (convenience store: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.80 [95% CI, 0.66-0.96]; supermarket/grocery store: AOR = 0.66 [95% CI, 0.52-0.84]; gas station: AOR = 0.61 [95% CI, 0.51-0.75]) and flavored cigarette/other tobacco products (convenience store: AOR = 0.69 [95% CI, 0.57-0.83]; supermarket/grocery store: AOR = 0.63 [95% CI, 0.49-0.79]; gas station: AOR = 0.55 [95% CI, 0.45-0.66]) in retail channels, which were the intended targets of the Act. We found no significant differences in flavored tobacco product advertising exposure for non–retail channels (television, radio, posters/billboards, newspapers/magazines, social media, and streaming services/movies in a theater).

Conclusions:

Future research should further examine the effects of statewide flavored tobacco sales restrictions on the availability of and exposure to advertisements for flavored tobacco products.
Navigating Academic Language in English Medium Instruction (EMI) Science Classrooms in Hong Kong
Authors: Pun Jack K. H. , Flowerdew John , Jia Wenyun
Published: December 2024

The use of English to teach content subjects is a growing phenomenon in schools around the world. However, many content teachers in English medium instruction (EMI) classrooms are unsure of the extent to which they should focus on academic language while teaching their subjects. Should they focus on content and not be overly concerned about language, or should they put more emphasis on fostering students’ academic language skills? This study explored the role of academic language in EMI science classrooms from the perspective of secondary teachers and students in Hong Kong through the lens of Systematic Functional Linguistics (SFL) and a sociocultural approach to academic language. Interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with 10 teachers and 50 students, respectively. The results reveal the participants’ attitudes towards academic language in science learning, report relevant practices, and highlight the challenges and coping strategies for teaching and learning academic language in science classrooms. The data shows that the participating teachers and students all had a preference for teaching and learning science content over language. The teachers expressed concerns regarding their students’ limited academic English proficiency for effective communication during science lessons. However, the students focused overwhelmingly on their lack of vocabulary knowledge. Both groups also demonstrated a lack of effective strategies to improve academic English abilities necessary for authentic communication during science learning. The implications of the value of using different registers of English to facilitate EMI science learning are discussed.
“Sentio ergo est”: Unmasking the psychological realities of emotional misperception
Authors: Tsikandilakis Myron , Bali Persefoni , Karlis Alexander , Morfi Patty , Mével Pierre-Alexis , Madan Christopher , Milbank Alison
Published: December 2024

Perception is an important aspect of our personal lives, interpersonal interactions and professional activities and performance. A large body of psychological research has been dedicated to exploring how perception happens, whether and when it involves conscious awareness and what are the physiological correlates, such as skin-conductance and heart-rate responses, that occur when we perceive particularly emotional elicitors. A more recent and less explored question in psychological science is how and when misperception happens, and what are the physiological characteristics of the misperception of emotion. Therefore, in the current study, for the first time in relevant research, we recruited participants using trial-contour power calculations for false-positive responses, such as incorrectly reporting that a brief backward masked face was presented and thoroughly explored these responses. We reported that false-positive responses for backward masked emotional faces were characterised by pre-trial arousal, and post-trial arousal increases, high confidence ratings, and corresponding to stimulus-type misperception valence and arousal participant ratings. These outcomes were most pronounced for false-positive responses for fearful faces. Based on these findings, we discussed the possibility of a mechanism for partial self-encapsulated emotional-experiential apperception and the possibility of a fear primacy socio-emotional response module during combined visual ambiguity and high psychophysiological arousal.
Weight loss with atogepant during the preventive treatment of migraine: A pooled analysis
Authors: Peterlin B. Lee , Bond Dale S. , Ailani Jessica , Dodick David W. , Liu Yingyi , De Abreu Ferreira Rosa , Smith Jonathan H. , Dabruzzo Brett , Goadsby Peter J. , Trugman Joel M.
Published: December 2024

Background

Migraine is associated with obesity. These analyses evaluated weight change with atogepant used as a preventive migraine treatment.

Methods

Five atogepant clinical trials in adults with migraine (one phase 2b/3; four phase 3) were included: Three 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled trials (episodic migraine: two; chronic migraine: one); one 40-week, open-label extension trial and one 52-week, standard care, randomized, long-term safety trial in episodic migraine. Change from baseline in body weight was measured.

Results

Mean baseline body mass indexes were 30.0–30.7 kg/m2 (pooled episodic migraine [United States only]) and 25.0–25.5 kg/m2 (chronic migraine [East Asia, Europe, and North America]). More participants treated with atogepant 60 mg once-daily compared to placebo experienced ≥7% weight loss at any time in the pooled episodic migraine placebo-controlled trials (4.9% vs. 2.8%), chronic migraine placebo-controlled trial (5.8% vs. 2.0%), and pooled open-label extension and long-term safety trials (24.0% vs.14.7% in standard care [long-term safety only]). In the placebo-controlled trials, weight loss with atogepant 60 mg once-daily was observed at week 2 (pooled episodic migraine: −0.32%; chronic migraine: −0.39%), increasing at week 12 (pooled episodic migraine: −1.02%; chronic migraine: −1.50%); compared to weight gain with placebo at week 12 (pooled episodic migraine: +0.49%; chronic migraine: +0.10%). In the long-term episodic migraine studies, weight loss with atogepant 60 mg once-daily was observed at week 4 (long-term safety: −0.42%; open-label extension: −0.76%), increasing at week 40 (long-term safety: −2.38%; open-label extension: −2.09%).

Conclusion

Atogepant was associated with modest dose- and duration-dependent weight loss.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT02848326 (CGP-MD-01); NCT03777059 (3101-301-002); NCT03700320 (long-term safety trial); NCT03939312 (open-label extension trial); NCT03855137 (3101-303-002).
Self-Regulation and High School Graduation for Youth With and Without Disabilities in Foster Care
Authors: Cavendish Wendy , Stewart Kele , Schreiner Nastasia , Perez Deborah
Published: December 2024

High school graduation rates for youth in foster care are disproportionally low. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self-regulation and high school graduation trajectory for foster youth with and without disabilities. Approximately 54% of the 37 youth in this study were on-track for on time high school graduation, although youth with disabilities were significantly less likely to be on track for graduation. Importantly, higher self-regulation skill increased the likelihood that all foster youth (with and without disabilities) were on track for graduation. Implications for school-based youth supports are discussed.
Development and application of an intelligent pressure injury assessment system using AI image recognition
Authors: Ge Xiaofang , Du Liping , Zheng Shuangqin , Shi Aili
Published: December 2024

Background

Pressure injuries are a significant concern in clinical settings, requiring accurate assessment to prevent complications. Traditional assessment methods are often subjective and time-consuming.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and evaluate an AI-based intelligent system for assessing pressure injuries, focusing on improving accuracy and efficiency compared to traditional methods.

Methods

The study involved 108 ICU patients, divided into control and experimental groups. The control group used traditional assessment methods, while the experimental group used an AI-based system with deep learning algorithms which is built upon a convolutional neural network (CNN). The accuracy, efficiency, and integration of the AI system with electronic medical records were analyzed.

Results

The AI system achieved an accuracy of 90%, outperforming traditional methods which had an accuracy of 81.2%. The system also significantly reduced the assessment time, improving the overall efficiency of pressure injury evaluation.

Conclusion

The AI-based system demonstrated superior accuracy and efficiency in pressure injury assessment, offering a valuable tool for clinical use. Further research is needed to expand the system's application to other types of wounds.
The first use of “lupus” as a disease
Authors: Thomas Donald E , Enfrein Antoine , Scofield Robert Hal
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Describe the history of the use of the term “lupus” as a disease and to point out the inaccuracies of previous lupus historical articles and correct the historical record.

Methods

An exhaustive review of Medieval and later texts regarding the use of the term “lupus” as it was used for the name of a disease as well as personal communications with Medieval experts who have studied this topic.

Results

There are three possible first uses of “lupus” as a disease: an affidavit written in 963 AD by Eraclius (Bishop of Liège, Belgium), in a 12th century historical account of the Bishop of Liège, falsely ascribed to the 9th century Bishop Herbernus, or in an 1170 AD letter written by Pierre de Blois about the death of archbishop Stephan du Perche. The first use of “lupus” in a medical text was by Rolando da Parma in a 1230 AD surgical treatise. Lupus, Latin for wolf, was not used to describe lesions that looked like wolf bites. Instead, it was first used to describe potentially deadly skin lesions that devoured the affected person’s skin and “internal matter.” The first described lupus treatment was freshly killed chicken flesh applied to the lesions so they would “wolfishly” eat the chicken rather than the person’s flesh. At least 25 modern historical articles, book chapters, and academic theses on the topic contain incorrect dates, story authorship ascriptions, reason for the use of “lupus” and other facts. There is no proof that Hippocrates described lupus. The Basilica of St Martin (Liege, Belgium), was originally built in the 10th century by Eraclius, Bishop of Liege, out of gratitude to St Martin for curing him of “lupus.”

Conclusions

The first use of the word “lupus” as a disease originated in either the 10th or 12th centuries. It described a deadly disease affecting the buttocks and legs that “wolfishly” devoured the person’s flesh and “internal matter” as well as doctor-prescribed fresh chicken flesh placed on the lesions. Authors of medical history articles should evaluate original historical texts and not simply repeat what other modern articles have written.
National, Bilateral and Multinational: The Development of Royal Navy Tactical Doctrine in the Cold War
Authors: Livsey Andrew
Published: December 2024

This article for the first time explains the development of Royal Navy tactical doctrine during the Cold War, explaining that bilateral and multilateral work alongside solely national effort was vital for the success of both British and NATO doctrine. In doing so it provides a hitherto unexplored aspect of NATO history and gives insights into Royal Navy culture and the development of military doctrine more widely.
Damage behavior of functionally graded kevlar/carbon epoxy nanocomposites reinforced with polyamide 6.6 nanofiber and MWCNTs subjected to low-velocity impact
Authors: Gunoz Alper , Kara Memduh
Published: December 2024

The use of carbon and kevlar fiber-reinforced composite materials continues to grow in high-tech applications such as aerospace engineering. One of the most desired properties in composite structures is a strong interfacial bond between the matrix and the fiber. Nano-material reinforcement is one of the most preferred methods for strengthening the fiber-matrix interfacial bond. In the present research, polyamide 6.6 (PA 6.6) nanofiber and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) reinforced kevlar fabric (KF), carbon fabric (CF) and epoxy matrix nanocomposite plates were produced by functional grading of these two fabrics. PA 6.6 nanofibers, obtained by electrospinning, were placed between the layers, and 12-layer nanocomposite plates were fabricated using a vacuum-assisted hand lay-up method. In producing MWCNTs reinforced nanocomposite plates, 0.3 wt.% of MWCNTs were added into the epoxy matrix. A comprehensive set of 16 distinct composite plates was manufactured, encompassing unreinforced plates, plates reinforced with MWCNTs, plates reinforced with PA 6.6, and plates reinforced with a combination of PA 6.6 and MWCNTs (PA 6.6-MWCNTs). The impact strengths of the produced composite plates were investigated at energy levels of 20, 40 and 60 J. The effects of reinforcing the composite structure with MWCNTs, PA 6.6, and PA 6.6-MWCNTs, as well as functionally grading KF/CF on impact strength, were investigated in detail. The damages that occurred in the material as a result of the low-velocity impact tests were interpreted by examining the high-resolution camera and optical microscope images. Thus, the nanofiber and nanoparticle reinforcement to composite structure and hybridization effect were evaluated together. With the reinforcement of PA 6.6, MWCNTs and PA 6.6-MWCNTs, the impact strength of the nanocomposite samples increased significantly compared to the unreinforced samples. Moreover, the amount of damage caused by the low-velocity impact test in reinforced samples was significantly reduced.
Navigating the Paradox: Materialism, Sustainable Practices and Well-Being in Emerging Markets
Authors: Issock Issock Paul Blaise , Muposhi Asphat , Dlamini Siphiwe
Published: December 2024

In emerging markets, the prevalence of materialistic tendencies has intensified consumption, impacting both the environment and consumer well-being. This research examines the paradoxical relationships between materialism, sustainable practices and consumer well-being through two cross-sectional studies. We explore linear and curvilinear relationships among these concepts across two sustainable practices (organic food consumption) and post-consumption (disposal of electronic waste). Study 1 investigates the relationships between organic food consumption, materialism, hedonic and eudaimonic well-being. In Study 2, we replicate the investigation, focusing on post-consumption practices, particularly the relationship between electronic waste disposal, materialism and life satisfaction as a dimension of subjective well-being. Findings reveal that materialistic values can motivate both sustainable and post-consumption practices, ultimately contributing to consumer well-being. Furthermore, to some extent, materialism can moderate the association between sustainable consumption and well-being. This research provides insights for promoting sustainable consumption and post-consumption practices in emerging markets.
Reassessing the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Events in Women
Authors: He Changhuai , Chu Jie , Li Yiqing , Dang Yiping , Xue Kaming , Cai Chuanqi
Published: December 2024

This research aims to reassess women's risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) events. We conducted an in-depth analysis of the environmental risk factors associated with VTE and their interactions with gender while also exploring the genetic underpinnings of the disease. VTE is identified as a multifactorial condition influenced by a combination of genetic, non-predisposing, and predisposing environmental factors. We further investigated the genetic basis of VTE, focusing on the identification and analysis of risk loci, as well as gene interaction networks and genetic analyses, which offer significant insights into the pathogenesis of VTE. Recognizing the critical role of gender in assessing VTE risk and developing prevention strategies, this research underscores the necessity of adopting an integrated perspective that accounts for individual vulnerabilities at both genetic and environmental levels to formulate effective preventive measures.
Research on vibration characteristics of spur gear drive considering tooth surface friction under elastohydrodynamic lubrication
Authors: Li Xudong , Fu Shengping , Wang Rui , Luo Yaou , Mo Jingyu
Published: December 2024

Under elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) conditions, spur gearing vibration characteristics are influenced by both the combined meshing stiffness (CMS) and the tooth surface friction coefficient (TSFC). This paper examines the effects of both combined meshing stiffness and the tooth surface friction coefficient on the vibration characteristics of spur gear drives through the following investigations. The combined meshing stiffness is numerically computed, and the tooth surface friction coefficient is measured by the experimental method under elastohydrodynamic lubrication at first. Then, the bending-torsion coupling vibration model of the gear drive is established. Moreover, the gear drive vibration characteristics are analyzed. Lastly, the accuracy of the model is proved experimentally. The results indicate that gears’ vibrations intensify as the tooth surface friction coefficient rises. And it is prolonged for the system to reach stabilization. The oil film normal stiffness (OFNS) formed by the lubricant film helps to reduce gear vibration. Especially when working at high speeds, the vibration reduction of elastohydrodynamic lubrication for the gear drive is more pronounced. The influence of the tooth surface friction coefficient on gear drive vibration characteristics is more significant than the combined meshing stiffness. The experimental and calculative results are within 10% error, which certifies the precision of the simulation results. This article provides a theoretical basis for studying the vibration reduction performance of gear drives.
Learning from poor leadership practice
Authors: Thompson Rachael , Patterson Nicola , Mavin and Sharon , Corlett Sandra
Published: December 2024

Poor leadership practice is not inconsequential. It has material effects yet is rarely considered in leadership research and learning. We explore what poor leadership practice ‘looks and feels like’, provide space for those on the ‘receiving end’ to be heard and discuss leadership learners’ responses to the study. We illustrate poor leadership practice empirically as humiliation, chaos, lack of care, abdication and abandonment and extend conceptualisation of poor leadership practice to include ever-changing excessive decision-making and lack of care. The study contributes novel insights, empirically highlighting the practical implications and theorising the emotional pain, loss of respect, trust and dignity for those subject to the practice. With agency, people struggle, bargain with and work around poor leadership practice. The extended accounts are a rich learning resource for leadership learning, with utility in provoking learning, raising consciousness to and challenging poor leadership practice.
The psychology of criminal authority: Introducing the Legitimacy of Secret Power Scale
Authors: Travaglino Giovanni A. , Mirisola Alberto , Moon Chanki , Burgmer Pascal , Imada Hirotaka , Giammusso Isabella , D’Ottone Silvana , Nawata Kengo , Ozeki Miki , Abrams Dominic
Published: December 2024

The state’s monopoly on sovereignty can be challenged by criminal systems capable of gaining legitimacy within communities. Understanding the psychological basis of such legitimacy requires broadening traditional conceptualizations of authority to consider how it operates without legal backing and outside formal channels. This research introduces the Legitimacy of Secret Power (L-SP) Scale, a tool measuring individuals’ appraisal of illegal groups’ power. We validated L-SP through three studies ( Ntotal = 3,173). Findings demonstrate a reliable, 20-item mono-factorial structure. Study 3 tested L-SP’s measurement invariance in the UK, Italy, Japan, and the US. Across studies, L-SP correlated with support for illegality, ideologies of masculine honor, and social dominance. It was inversely related to the perceived national threat of criminal groups, democratic attitudes, and police legitimacy. Notably, L-SP predicted individuals’ willingness to report criminal groups independently of their fear of these groups or perceptions of police legitimacy. Theoretical implications and future directions are discussed.
An overview of offender profiling
Authors: Kapardis Andreas
Published: December 2024

Generally speaking, criminals are caught by police for one or more of the following reasons: they confess to the crime; another criminal gives the police useful information about a crime; they are arrested red-handed or chased and caught by police; an eyewitness describes them; forensic evidence (fingerprints, footprints, DNA, etc.) at the crime scene or their handwriting or video footage is linked to them; or finally, because the police link a number of crimes committed by the same offender. Further, in today's large urban centres all over the world, the work of police detectives is becoming increasingly difficult, calling for more sophisticated techniques as criminals become even more adept. Films such as Silence of the Lambs, television series like Cracker in the UK, Mindhunter, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, CSI: Miami or Profiler, and popular books like The Real Cracker by Stephen Cook (2001) , The Jigsaw Man and Picking Up the Pieces by Paul Britton (1998 , 2001 ) have popularised criminal profiling. In addition, well-known retired Federal Bureau of Investigation profilers (e.g. John Douglas, Roy Hazelwood, Robert Ressler) have published some of their experiences in helping law enforcement agencies catch serial killers. Likewise, in the UK, two very experienced offender profilers have published works; namely, academic psychologist Julian Boon and psychiatrist Richard Baddock. Offender profiling refers to the use of behavioural data evident in a crime to assist a police investigation by seeking to infer attributes of probable offenders, thus narrowing the police search for suspects.
Nanoindentation and indentation creep analysis of diffusion bonded of inconel 718 and AISI 304L stainless steel joint interface
Authors: Khan Salman , Junaid Massab , Khan Fahd Nawaz
Published: December 2024

Diffusion bonding of Inconel 718 (IN718) and Austenitic Stainless Steel (AISI 304L) was performed at 950 °C for 90 minutes of holding times under 5 MPa of bonding pressure. The resultant joint interface was investigated for its microstructural and compositional analysis, nano hardness, elastic modulus, and indentation creep. The result reveals that the joint interface was comprised of NbC, Cr23C6, and δ-Ni3Nb along with the austenitic matrix of Ni and Fe. Similarly, a nanohardness of 3.5 GPa occurred at the bonding interface, which was 10% and 33% higher as compared to the base metals (BM) of IN718 and AISI 304L, respectively. Additionally, a minimum elastic modulus of 190 GPa was achieved at the AISI 304L BM as compared to other bonding zones (BZ). Moreover, a creep deformation of 73 nm occurred at the bonding interface and the stress exponent of bonding interface was 17% and 57% lower as compared to AISI 304L and IN718 BM respectively. Lastly, the bonding interface has higher creep resistance compared to other BZ and pile-ups were appears around the nanoindents in all bonding zones as analyzed with atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Ten Years’ Experience with Diagnosis and Treatment of Non-Subungual Glomus Tumor in the Fingers
Authors: Wang Haoyu , Han Jiahang , Wang Zewei , Zhou Haiying , Alhaskawi Ahmad , Dong Yanzhao , Lu Hui
Published: December 2024

Non-subungual glomus tumor in the fingers is very rare. To explore the insights gained from diagnosing and treating non-subungual glomus tumors in the finger, we collected 19 cases in the last ten years, which were only reported as isolated cases in the previous literature. This was a retrospective study of 19 surgical patients between May 2012 and January 2022 with preoperative MRI, ultrasound, and their final pathological diagnosis is glomus tumor, while the lesions were located not under the nail bed. Immunohistochemistry indicated that SMA(+)100%, CD34(+)89.5%, Ki-67(+1∼3%)68.4%, CD31(vessel+)26.3%, Desmin(+)21%, Calponin(+) 10.5%, Vimentin(+)5.2%, Caldesmon(+)5.2%. The sensitivity of preoperative MRI was 100%, while the sensitivity of ultrasound was 63.2%. And the diagnosing accuracy rate of preoperative MRI was 36.8%. Preoperative MRI is helpful in the diagnosis of non-subungual glomus tumor in fingers. Ultrasound can be used as a supplemental examination technique, and the results depend on the operator and tumor location. Surgical excision is an effective therapy for non-subungual GT in the fingers.
Intra- and Peritumoral-Based Radiomics for Preoperatively Assessing the Pathological Subtype of T1-Stage Lung Adenocarcinoma Presenting as Pure Ground-Glass Nodules
Authors: Jiang Wenting , Qu Tingting , Liu Weiran , Shi Huazheng , Zhang Yali
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of CT radiomic features extracted from tumor and peritumoral regions in identifying pathological subtypes of T1-stage lung adenocarcinoma presenting as pure ground−glass nodules (pGGNs). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the data of T1-stage lung adenocarcinoma patients who underwent surgical resection and whose preoperative CT scans revealed pGGNs from June 2020 to June 2023 in our hospital. 3D Slicer was used to extract radiomic features of the intratumoral (VOI entire) and peritumoral regions (VOI +2 mm), and Rad-scores were calculated from the coefficients of features obtained after dimensionality reduction with LASSO regression. Results: A total of 131 patients with T1-stage lung adenocarcinoma presenting as pGGNs were included in this study; of these, 84 were pathologically diagnosed with the lepidic-predominant (LPA) subtype, and 47 were diagnosed with non-LPA. The diagnostic performance of the VOI entire and VOI +2 mm features for the pathological subtype of pGGN was superior to that of conventional features, with the VOI +2 mm features showing the best performance: the area under the curve, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in the training set were 0.883, 0.964, 0.667, and 0.761, respectively. Conclusion: Intra- and especially peritumoral-based radiomic features have high diagnostic performance for the pathological subtype of T1-stage lung adenocarcinoma presenting as pGGNs.
Acculturating Pathway to Practice: A Conceptual Framework of Factors Influencing Foreign-Educated Physicians (FEPs) Transitioning to Nursing as a Second Career
Authors: Hernandez-Pupo Nora
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Many foreign-educated physicians (FEPs) are transitioning to licensed registered nurses (RNs) in the United States, a process that helps decrease the nursing shortage. There is a gap in knowledge regarding how they transform from medical to nursing professionals. This information could assist FEPs to effectively transition into the nursing role. Method: The purpose of this grounded theory study was to discover a substantive theory explaining the process of FEPs experience as they transition from their original role as physicians in their country of origin to their new role as registered nurses in the United States. A total of 22 FEPs were recruited for the study and participated in individual and focus group interviews. Results: The basic social process identified in this study was the: acculturating pathway to practice, which provided an in-depth description of the dynamic process of FEPs and their integration, socialization, and transition into nursing as a second career. The three categories that explained this process were practicing, transitioning, and reconciling. Conclusion: The substantive theory allows for an understanding of the factors that influence this group of nursing professionals. This is an essential component of retention, patient care, and improvements in academic and healthcare institutions.
A Scoping Review of Masculinity Norms and Their Interplay With Loneliness and Social Connectedness Among Men in Western Societies
Authors: Nordin Therese , Degerstedt Frida , Granholm Valmari Elin
Published: December 2024

This scoping review explores what is currently understood about how masculinity norms interplay with loneliness and social connectedness among men in a Western context. Human beings inherently need social connections, and this review particularly addresses how traditional masculinity norms—emphasizing independence, emotional stoicism, and pain endurance—can increase vulnerability to loneliness and insufficient social connections. The review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and systematically assessed the literature published between September 2013 and September 2023. Initial literature searches were conducted using multiple databases, including EBSCO and PubMed. Of the 1,730 articles identified, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria and were quality assessed. Results show that men often formed social connections through productive activities. Still, these connections were restricted by conflicting masculine ideals such as self-reliance, which could be prioritized over social and emotional support. Masculine bonds were often formed and strengthened through collectively rejecting diversity. Nevertheless, there were some narratives where participants attempted to redefine masculinity to access permission to care and connect. This review highlights the urgent need for cultural and societal reevaluation of gender norms to support men’s social connectedness. This shift could reduce stigma around emotional vulnerability and in turn men’s opportunities for health and well-being.
FRED-UK: Multicentre UK experience of FRED and FRED Jr flow re-direction endoluminal device for intracranial aneurysms: 6 months and 1 year clinical and anatomical results
Authors: Taylor Eleanor , Downer Jonathan , Lamin Saleh , Chandran Arun , Koumellis Panayiotis , Gan Chee , Jadun Changez , Booth Thomas , Gholkar Anil , Leyon Joe , Lobotesis Kyriakos
Published: December 2024

Background

Flow diverting stents (FDS) are an established endovascular treatment for intracranial aneurysms but are reported to have varying rates of adequate occlusion and thromboembolic complications. This study reports clinical safety and efficacy results of the FRED and FRED Jr FDS in clinical practice in the UK at 6 months and 1 year.

Methods

The FRED-UK study is a single arm, multicentre, prospective, observational study conducted in the UK. Safety was reviewed by evaluating morbidity (modified Rankin Score ≤2) and mortality. Efficacy was assessed as adequate occlusion of the treated aneurysm. A clinical event committee and core laboratory independently assessed clinical and anatomical results.

Results

Seven neurointerventional centers treated 61 patients, 57 of which met the full inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of these, 75.4% were treated with FRED and 24.6% with FRED Jr. The aneurysms were located on the cavernous or supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) in 75.4%, on the anterior cerebral artery (ACA) or anterior communicating artery (Acom) in 21.1%, and on the middle cerebral artery (MCA) in 3.5%. 57.9% of aneurysms were small (<10 mm), 40.4% were large (10–24 mm) and 1.8% were giant (≥25 mm). All-cause morbidity and mortality were 0% at 6 and 12 months, and adequate occlusion was 86.7% at 12 months in the per protocol population.

Conclusions

The FRED and FRED Jr devices are safe and efficacious in the treatment of intracranial aneurysms