bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutrophils-derived Parameters as Cost-effective Inflammatory, Disease Activity Marker in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Role in Prediction of Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Farheen Shaila , Sharma Seema , Rao Ram Nawal , Linghaiah Raghavendra , Aggarwal Amita
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with various clinical manifestations and approximately 50% of the SLE patients develop lupus nephritis (LN), which increases the risk of renal failure, cardiovascular diseases and overall survival.

Objectives:

Evaluation of neutrophil-derived parameters (Neut-X, Neut-Y and Neut-Z) as an inflammatory, disease activity marker and as a predictor of nephritis in SLE patients.

Material and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 3 ml K3EDTA blood was taken from 110 SLE patients presented in Department of Clinical Immunology to evaluate neutrophil-derived parameters in Sysmex XT2000i haematology analyser and their correlation with other inflammatory biomarkers like, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as well as SLE disease activity index-2000 (SLEDAI-2K). 24-hours urine protein levels were also estimated as a marker of renal involvement. Records of renal biopsy were available in 73 SLE patients, who belonged to different morphologic classification of LN.

Results:

After performing bivariate Spearman correlation analysis (SPSS software, version 26.0), Neut-X (measures cytoplasmic granularity by side scattering) and Neut-Z (vector sum of Neut-X and Neut-Y) showed a significant positive correlation ( r > 0.200, P < .05) with ESR, CRP and SLEDAI-2K while Neut-Y (measures nucleic acid content by sideward fluorescence) showed a significant negative correlation ( r > 0.200, P < .05) with ESR and CRP. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis was used to evaluate diagnostic value of 24-hour urine protein and predictive values of neutrophil-derived parameters for renal involvement in SLE patients. Among neutrophil-derived parameters, Neut-X was found to be the best predictor of renal dysfunction with highest AUC of 0.710 (95% CI: 0.604-0.816; cut-off: 1344.50; sensitivity: 84.7%; specificity: 50%) followed by Neut-Z with AUC of 0.707 (95% CI: 0.600-0.813; cut-off: 1403.67; sensitivity: 87.5%; specificity: 50%).

Conclusion:

Our study shows that neutrophil-derived parameters may be used as novel cost-effective, non-invasive biomarker of disease activity as well as for predicting renal involvement in SLE patients.
Impact of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases Mortality on Life Expectancy in Tianjin, 2004 and 2020
Authors: Wang Shiyu , Yin Xiaolin , Jiang Tingting , Xu Jiahui , Wang Dezheng
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to analyze the impact of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (CCVDs) mortality on Tianjin’s life expectancy (LE) in 2004 compared with 2020 using Arriaga’s decomposition method. The LE increment for Tianjin residents due to the decrease in CCVDs mortality was 1.54 years (38.7%). Males, females, urban residents, and rural residents contributed 1.29 years (36.83%), 1.76 years (40.25%), 2.11 years (44.41%), and 0.71 years (25.06%), respectively. A total of 38.2% of the LE increment was attributed to deaths from CCVDs in people aged ≥65 years. Cerebral infarction, intracerebral hemorrhage, acute myocardial infarction, and other heart diseases contributed positively to the increase in LE (24.8%, 22.68%, 16.66%, and 11.3%). Sequelae of cerebrovascular disease and other coronary heart diseases contributed negatively to the increase in LE (−25.2% and −17.92%). Therefore, we need to control the risk factors of the elderly, males, rural residents, sequelae of cerebrovascular disease, and other coronary heart diseases.
Institutionalising women’s experiences in law: Possibilities and pitfalls of parliamentary gender audit committees
Authors: Vijeyarasa Ramona
Published: May 2024

Feminist legal scholars have long recognised that law is gendered, being a manifestation of power that often works to the detriment of women. This need not be the case. This article tests the capacity of law to make a material difference on women’s lives through parliamentary auditing. The arguments springboard from an innovation emerging in Tasmania in 2022: a Gender and Equality Audit Committee in the Tasmanian Legislative Council. Alongside the Australian Capital Territory’s Standing Committee on the Economy and Gender and Economic Equality, these Australian examples provide a framework to interrogate the possibilities for inclusive, gendered legislative scrutiny.
Firearm and Criminal Milieu Homicide in Sweden
Authors: Granath Sven
Published: May 2024

This study analyzes the trend in firearm and criminal milieu–related homicides in Sweden in the past three decades. A particular focus is on the 2010–2019 period, during which a dramatic increase was noted, although an increase in firearm homicides with illegal guns had already started in the late 1990s. In extant literature, the rapid increase in the 2010s is posited to be associated with fast access to illegal weapons, especially among youth in the most urban regions, Stockholm and Skaane County in particular. As a result, many victims and perpetrators are young men. This issue is proposed to be exacerbated by the new possibilities for organized crime setups in the wake of the digital revolution, a heightened level of social problems in the aftermath of high immigration from developing countries in combination with the dismantling of welfare institutions, and a self-increasing chain reaction of violence triggered by random episodes in the criminal milieu. These hypotheses are largely supported by this study’s findings.
Triggering Violence? The Impact of Firearms on the Nature and Lethality of Violent Encounters: A European Perspective
Authors: Krüsselmann Katharina
Published: May 2024

Firearms are used in around 25% of homicides in Europe. More so than other weapons commonly used in violent encounters, firearms have the ability to inflict lethal injuries. Yet, theoretical approaches to understanding the impact of firearms on the prevalence, lethality, and nature of violent encounters are scarce and have been developed almost exclusively within and for the context of the United States, where the levels of firearm violence and firearm availability are much higher than in Europe, limiting their applicability to the European context. To address this issue, European empirical data are reviewed in this paper to critically assess the few existing theoretical approaches focusing on the use of firearms in lethal and non-lethal violence. Based on the obtained findings, future directions for empirical research, as well as suggestions for new conceptualizations of firearm violence in Europe are presented.
Sustainable Human Resources Management and Psychological Contracts: Exploring Theoretical Anchors to Solve Relational Tensions in Employment Relationships
Authors: Laulié Lyonel , Pavez Ignacio
Published: May 2024

A core aspect of Sustainable Human Resource Management (S-HRM) has been its focus on developing high-quality employment relationships. This endeavor, however, has become increasingly complex, because the employee-employer relationship has undergone a profound transformation in recent years. This problem is further exacerbated by inherent tensions that surface when organizations aim to develop high-quality employment relationships in concert with sustainability-related goals. In this article, we intend to align theory and practice toward a more sustainable HRM by explaining how the psychological contract (PC) literature can provide new insights and perspectives to understand these tensions. We begin by delving into the nature and drivers of these sustainability-related tensions that arise when organizations strive to develop high-quality employment relationships. Next, we recount previous PC research that can inform the S-HRM literature to better understand how those tensions unfold. Finally, we identify concrete avenues for future research and discuss why integrating the PC and S-HRM literature could be an important path to expand our understanding of how to create more sustainable employment relationships.
Religious Beliefs and Civil Rights: Comparative Analysis Through the Fuzzy Clustering ECO-Extended Apostle Model
Authors: Indelicato Alessandro , Martín Juan Carlos
Published: May 2024

This study utilises data from the International Social Survey Program (ISSP), Religion module of 2018, to provide a comparative analysis between attitudes towards civil rights (ATCR) and religious beliefs (RB) in thirty-three countries, examining the influence of religion and socio-demographic factors on both latent variables. The study measures ATCR and RB for each respondent using the Fuzzy Hybrid TOPSIS method. Subsequently, Fuzzy Clustering Analysis is applied to ACTR and RB to extend the Classical Apostle Model using a Fuzzy Clustering ECO-Extended Apostle model that categorises individuals into four groups: Religious Conservatives, Non-Religious Conservatives, Non-Religious Liberals, and Religious Liberals, based on their religious beliefs and support for civil rights. The results indicate that parents’ religion impacts both ATCR and RB. Those with atheist or agnostic parents tend to endorse civil rights more openly and are less religious. Additionally, religious event attendance is also a key determinant in shaping ATCR and RB. Furthermore, other sociodemographic factors such as age, gender, income, occupation, and political orientation also play crucial roles.
Evaluating Oral Probiotic Supplements as Complementary Treatment in Advanced Lung Cancer Patients Receiving ICIs: A Prospective Real-World Study
Authors: Tong Liping , Wan Yuming , Shi Xiaoxiao , Liu Xianguo , Liu Zhe , Li Yuehua , Zhang Yan , Luo Deyun , Zhu Jiang
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of oral probiotic supplements in patients undergoing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for the treatment of advanced lung cancer.

Methods

This prospective real-world study enrolled patients with advanced lung cancer who were receiving ICIs as part of their treatment. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group OPS received oral probiotic supplements along with ICIs, while Group C did not. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). The secondary outcome measure was the objective response rate (ORR).

Results

A total of 253 patients were included in the study, with 71 patients in Group OPS and 182 patients in the control group (Group C). No significant differences were observed in the median PFS between the 2 groups for all patients. However, for small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients, the median PFS was significantly better in the Group OPS compared to the Group C (11.1 months vs 7.0 months, P = .049). No significant differences were observed in median PFS for the non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cohort between the 2 groups, but a trend towards better median PFS in Group OPS was noticed (16.5 months vs 12.3 months, P = .56). The ORR for the entire cohort was 58.0%.

Conclusion

Oral probiotics supplements in combination with ICIs included regimen may improve the outcome in patients with advanced SCLC. The above points should be proved by further study.
Homogenization of nonlinear Cosserat plate including growth theory when the thickness of the plate and the size of the in-plane heterogeneities are of the same order of magnitude
Authors: Pruchnicki Erick
Published: May 2024

In this work, we present a new two-scale finite-strain plate theory for highly heterogeneous plates described by a repetitive periodic microstructure. Two scales exist, the macroscopic scale is linked to the entire plate and the microscopic one is linked to the size of the heterogeneity. This work aims to propose such a theory for thick plates in a nonlinear setting when the thickness and the size of heterogeneities are of the same order of magnitude. The homogenization theory for large deformation with growth is suitable for the modelization of nearly incompressible plant tissue. This model is suitable for wavy leaves. For thick plates, the transverse normal stress and transverse shearing are modelized at both microscopic and macroscopic levels. At the macroscopic level, we consider a nonlinear Cosserat plate model. At the microscopic level, we impose that the average of contribution of the microscopic displacement to rotation angles is equal to zero. We also deal with the problem of boundary layer problem near the lateral boundary. The model recently proposed by Pruchnicki is valid for thin heterogeneous plates; we present an extension for thick plates that takes into account both transverse normal stress and shearing. This model is equivalent to the first model presented but it involves a second-order derivative of the macroscopic displacement field.
Smoking Habits and Nicotine Dependence Among the General Lebanese Population Before and During Both the Economic Crisis and COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Haddad Nina Rossa , Aoun Charbel B. , Mghames Abdo , Saleh Mustafa , Chahine Mirna N.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Smoking habits have widely changed over time; however, they remain a well-known fashion that risks people’s health. In addition, nicotine addiction depends on the interplay between several factors. Our study aimed to understand the smoking habits and nicotine dependence in the Lebanese population before (September 2019) and during (June 2020) the economic crisis and COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This observational cross-sectional survey-based study included 1560 Lebanese individuals aged between 13 and 75 years old from June till October 2020. Data collection was performed through an electronic survey including patients’ demographics and validated instruments to assess addiction to nicotine (CAGE, Four C’s, Fagerström test, and Smoker’s profile scores).

Results

Out of 1560 participants, 794 (50.9%) were males. The mean age was 26.5 ± 11.69 years, and 67.8% were aged between 18 and 25 years old. We found that 865 (55.4%) participants were smokers. In addition, smoking cigarettes or vaping, significantly increased between September 2019 and June 2020. Our smoker group showed a high CAGE positivity ( P < .001), marked compulsion ( P < .001), and a considerable lack of self-control to surcease smoking ( P < .001). Furthermore, the nicotine dependence score (NDS) increased with age (B = .166) and decreased with higher educational levels (B = −.219).

Conclusion

During the economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lebanese population showed an increased prevalence of smoking, a high level of CAGE positivity, strong compulsion, and a significant lack of self-control when it came to quitting smoking. This strongly entails public health measures for smoking cessation through national awareness campaigns.
A Case Report of Asthma Exacerbation Induced by Excessive Drinking Water
Authors: Lv Shunxin , Jiao Huachen , Qu Ying , Zhang Mengdi , Wang Rui , Li Yan , Jiang Feng , Xin Laiyun
Published: May 2024

Excessive water consumption is an extremely rare and potential asthma risk factor with very few cases reported in the literature. Common triggers of asthma include genetic factors, smoking, allergens, and viral respiratory infections. The adult patient with asthma reportedly drank too much water and was unable to get relief from his asthma while hospitalized. The patient’s asthma was better controlled with the use of diuretics and control of the patient’s fluid intake and output. This case explores asthma induced by excessive drinking of water.
Numerical study on mixed lubrication performance of misaligned microgroove water-lubricated bearings considering cavitation and turbulence effects
Authors: Chen Ziqi , Wang Ji , Liu Yujun , Li Rui
Published: May 2024

This study presents a mixed lubrication model for misaligned microgroove water-lubricated bearings (WLBs). The model considers the effects of cavitation and turbulence to assess the mixed lubrication performance of WLBs with various microgroove morphologies. The equations are discretized using the control volume method (CVM) and solved by using the Fischer–Burmeister–Newton–Schur method for dealing with the constrained system. A comparison of the experimental data from the published literature demonstrates the model and methodology's validity. On this basis, the effects of rotational speed, load, and misalignment angle on the mixed lubrication performance of microgroove WLBs are investigated. The numerical results indicate that the left-triangular microgroove exhibits the best-mixed lubrication performance. Under elastohydrodynamic lubrication and mixed lubrication conditions, there are significant discrepancies in microgroove morphology. However, this discrepancy diminishes with increasing misalignment angles. The edge contact problem resulting from journal misalignment can be efficiently mitigated by selecting the proper microgroove morphology. This study provides useful guidance for the optimal design and mixed lubrication performance improvement of WLBs.
The association of comorbidities with sleep quality among Australians with multiple sclerosis: Insights from the Australian Multiple Sclerosis Longitudinal Study
Authors: Dagnew Baye , Laslett Laura L , Honan Cynthia A , Blizzard Leigh , Winzenberg Tania , Taylor Bruce V , van der Mei Ingrid
Published: May 2024

Background:

Comorbidities and poor sleep quality are prevalent among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Our understanding of the effects of comorbidities on sleep quality in MS remains limited.

Objectives:

The objectives were to investigate whether the number and presence of specific comorbidities have associations with sleep quality and to assess the relative contribution of comorbidity groups to sleep quality.

Methods:

We collected data on sleep quality (using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI)) and presence of comorbidities in people with MS ( n = 1597). Associations between comorbidities and sleep quality were examined using linear regression and dominance analysis.

Results:

Having more comorbidities was associated with poorer sleep quality ( p for trend < 0.001). All 13 groups of comorbidities explained 12.9% of the variance in PSQI from which half of the variance was contributed by mental health disorders. In total, 16 of the 28 comorbidities were associated with significantly worse sleep quality, with the strongest associations seen for ‘other autoimmune diseases’ (β = 1.98), depression (β = 1.76), anxiety (β = 1.72) and rheumatoid arthritis (β = 1.62).

Conclusions:

Many individual comorbidities are associated with poorer sleep quality, with mental health disorders making the largest relative contribution. Optimal management of comorbidities that make the greatest contributions could have the largest benefit for improving sleep in MS.
Culturally responsive data analysis for evaluations in contexts of fragility, conflict, and violence
Authors: Bassongui Nassibou
Published: May 2024

This article aims to provide practical guidance for conducting culturally responsive data analysis for evaluations in contexts of fragility, conflict and violence. To this end, we propose three core principles – or ‘golden rules’—that must be taken into consideration when analyzing such data. These include the engagement of wise stakeholders in data analysis, the consideration of diversity in detecting and treating outliers and the documentation of all data analysis processes, including the assumptions made. We are aware that applying these principles may pose practical challenges given the complexity of fragile and conflict-based environments. However, doing so can enhance the validity of evaluation findings and their acceptability. Further research is encouraged to empirically test the proposed principles in conflict regions, notably in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Is problematic use of the Internet and smartphone predictor of unhealthy eating behaviors and abnormal body weight in Turkish young adults?
Authors: Yılmaz Hacı Ömer , Meriç Çağdaş Salih , Bülbül Kenan , Türkkan Tuğba
Published: May 2024

With technological progress, the use of the internet and smartphones has become an inseparable part of our lives and their use is increasing. The uncontrolled use of both the internet and smartphones is defined as problematic use. This study examined the effects of problematic internet and smartphone use on dietary behaviors and abnormal body weight status in young adults. Participants were 560 university students. Participants completed measures of demographics, dietary behaviors, internet and smartphone usage habits, Young’s Internet Addiction Test and Smartphone Addiction Scale. Negative associations were found between dietary behaviors and problematic internet and smartphone use. Significant inverse associations were also found between these uses and recommended consumption levels of several food groups. For a healthy future generation, it is recommended that policies be developed to prevent or manage these problematic uses, especially in young adults with negative dietary behaviors and abnormal body weight.
Ultrasonic welding of Cu cables bonding: Tensile, porosity and evolution of microstructure
Authors: Cheng Xian Ming , Yang Ke , Wu YF , Wang Jian , Huang Sishu Si
Published: May 2024

Tensile strength, porosity and microstructure evolution of ultrasonic bonding for BVR2.5 Cu cables at different welding energies were investigated. By X-ray computed tomography and modification of the Johnson-Cook model, the predictive model of porosity was developed for the first time to assess joint strength. When the porosity was lower than 19%, the joint formed a good bond and reached the tensile strength of 585.7 ± 17.9  N. The maximum joint tensile strength was achieved at about 10% porosity. The Cu grains at the interface underwent plastic deformation, discontinuous dynamic recrystallisation and dynamic recovery to form a good bond. Interfacial grains are refined by ultrasonic vibrations, but the reduction of the porosity is the critical factor in improving joint strength.
Experimental studies on the mechanical behaviors of cold-formed thin-walled steel-foam concrete composite walls
Authors: Fang Haojie , Qian Zhenghao , Yao Bin , Wang Weiyong
Published: May 2024

This paper presents experimental studies to investigate the compressive and shear behaviors of cold-formed thin-walled steel-foam concrete composite walls. Three compressive walls and three shear walls were tested. The failure mode and load-displacement curve of the specimen were obtained from the compressive experiment. The compressive wall infilled with foam concrete mainly experienced distortion buckling of the end stud and local crushing failure of the concrete. The stud openings had a limited effect on the compressive bearing capacity of the composite wall. The failure mode and load-deformation curve were obtained in shear tests. The ductility index, shear stiffness, yield load, peak load, energy dissipation, and stiffness degradation were analyzed. The shear composite wall filled with foam concrete mainly occurred concrete crushing failure, local or distortional buckling failure of the end stud, and cracking failure of the calcium silicate board. The shear stiffness, shear capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation of the composite wall could be significantly improved after filling with foam concrete.
News you can refuse: If news is important, why aren’t more people willing to pay for it?
Authors: Tandoc Edson C , Seet Seth
Published: May 2024

Guided by public goods and uses and gratifications theories, this study examines the link among motivations for news consumption, perceived importance of news, and willingness to pay for news. Through a national online survey in Singapore ( n = 818), this study found that both entertainment and socialisation motivations are positively related to willingness to pay for news, while surveillance motivation was not. The analysis also found that perceiving news to be personally important is positively related to willingness to pay for news; in contrast, perceiving news to be important to society was unrelated to willingness to pay for it. While surveillance motivation was not directly related to willingness to pay for news, it exerts an indirect effect through perceived personal importance of news. These findings challenge conventional assumptions about the drivers of news subscriptions and offer pivotal insights for news organisations seeking sustainable revenue models in an era of media transformation.
Piston ring and cylinder liner scuffing analysis in dual-fuel low-speed engines considering liner deformation and tribofilm evolution
Authors: Lyu Bugao , Meng Xianghui , Wang Chuanjuan , Cui Yi , Wang Cheng’en
Published: May 2024

The piston ring and cylinder liner (PRCL) system in larger-bore low-speed marine engines frequently experiences scuffing failures, which significantly decrease the engine reliability. To understand this failure mechanism, a scuffing failure model subjected to the PRCL system was developed considering multidisciplinary coupling effects that integrate asperity contact, hydrodynamic lubrication, tribochemistry reactions, thermal effects, friction, and surface wear. The impacts of large-scale deformation and gas-combustion mode on the scuffing performances of the PRCL system were examined. The key findings indicate that the larger-scale liner deformation can markedly reduce oil film thickness and exacerbate local asperity contact, influencing the evolution of the tribofilm by increasing the removal process. Under gas-combustion mode, the oil film thickness is even lower, and the asperity contact pressure further increases due to a more starved lubrication state and higher combustion temperature. This leads to tribofilm breakdown and severe wear near the ring opening area, which are aligning with the full-scale experimental results with scuffing failure.
Are We Doing Enough to Prevent SUDEP?
Authors: Andrade Danielle M.
Published: May 2024

[Box: see text]
Over the Limit; Long-Term Seizure and Mortality Risk in Alcohol Withdrawal Seizures
Authors: Widdess-Walsh Peter
Published: May 2024

[Box: see text]
Contemporary Therapy of Femoropopliteal In-Stent Restenosis / Occlusion, 36-month Follow up Study
Authors: Suzuki Kenji , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Tobita Kazuki , Hayakawa Naoki , Mori Shinsuke , Iwata Yo , Horie Kazunori , Nakama Tatsuya
Published: May 2024

Background

Drug-eluting devices improved outcomes of endovascular therapy (EVT) for femoropopliteal lesions, but mainly for de novo lesions. Endovascular therapy for in-stent restenosis/occlusion (ISR/O) is challenging, and large trials and long-term data are not well reported.

Materials and Methods

This study is a physician initiated, multicenter, and retrospective design. From 7 Japanese institutes, 3635 femoropopliteal cases were enrolled in the study. Among these, 346 cases of first ISR/O were studied. We defined drug-coated-balloon, drug-eluting stent, and covered stent as New devices. Balloon angioplasty and bare nitinol stent were included in the control group.

Results

The propensity score matching extracted 112 pairs. At 12 months, the primary patency rate was 80.3% in the new device group and 52.7% in the control group, and there was a significant intergroup difference ( P = .004). However, at 36 months, the rate was 43.3% vs 39.2%, with no significant difference ( P = .090). No baseline characteristics had any significant interaction effect (all P > .05).

Conclusions

The New devices were more effective than the control group for ISR/O at 1 year, but caught up at 3 years.
Flow of magnetohydrodynamic blood-based hybrid nanofluids with double diffusion in the presence of Riga plate for heat optimization and drug applications
Authors: Khan Abdul Samad , Ishaq Muhammad , Awwad Fuad A , Ismail Emad AA , Gul Taza
Published: May 2024

In a recent study, researchers investigated the flow behavior of Casson Hybrid nanofluids (HNFs) combination of single and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), (MWCNTs) on a Riga plate for drug delivery applications. The study found that the Casson HNFs exhibited non-Newtonian behavior on the Riga plate, with the presence of nanoparticles causing an increase in viscosity and shear-thinning behavior. This rheological behavior is favorable for drug delivery applications as it improves the stability and dispersion of drug particles in the fluid. The similarity equations of the flow problem are easily tackled with the homotopy analysis method (HAM) built on fundamental homotopy mapping. In high-speed flows, Riga actuators are expected to achieve the requirements, since HNF is enhanced by modified Hartmann numbers. As the Eckert number, heat generation/absorption parameter, and thermal relaxation time parameter decrease the temperature, thermal transport increases. Furthermore, with the increments in paramount parameters, the skin friction coefficient and heat transfer rate are remarkably meliorated under higher modified Hartmann number. Furthermore, the study also found that the Casson Hybrid nanofluids showed enhanced heat transfer properties on the Riga plate, which is beneficial for localized drug delivery applications that require precise temperature control.
Examining menstrual health experiences in Philadelphia, PA: A qualitative investigation
Authors: Casola Allison R , Pando Oriana , Medley Lynette , Kunes Brianna , McGlone Nya , Rea Olivia
Published: May 2024

Background:

While menstruation is a physiologic process, it remains highly stigmatized. Despite the sheer number of menstruators, menstruation is a highly individualized experience, with wide variation in duration, symptoms, and management. This wide variability lends itself to large disparities in access to menstruation management products and subsequently the lived experience of menstruators.

Objectives:

The research team sought to understand lived menstrual experiences, symptoms, management tactics, and commonly used and desired resources among 20 cisgendered women aged 18–45 years in Philadelphia.

Design:

This project was a qualitative research study.

Methods:

We used a collaborative, community-based participatory research approach with No More Secrets, a Philadelphia-based grassroots sexuality awareness and menstrual health hub. Semi-structured telephone interviews were used to gain insight into general menstruation-related experiences, communication, worries, and concerns, with subsequent thematic analysis via Key Words in Context approach.

Results:

Four themes emerged following analysis: cycle characteristics, menstruation management, coping resources, and future resources. Participants largely spoke about their menses as a negative experience, asked for more comprehensive, verified sources of information and needed greater access to menstrual management supplies.

Conclusion:

Menstruation is a highly individualized experience with a large variety in knowledge, menstrual product use, and individual needs. Despite the individuality of menstruation, our community-based research shows that there is a dire need for interventions that promotes knowledge and access to menstrual care.
Long-term therapy with dienogest or other oral cyclic estrogen-progestogen can reduce the need for ovarian endometrioma surgery
Authors: Ferrari Federico , Epis Matteo , Casarin Jvan , Bordi Giulia , Gisone Emanuele Baldo , Cattelan Chiara , Rossetti Diego Oreste , Ciravolo Giuseppe , Gozzini Elisa , Conforti Jacopo , Cromi Antonella , Laganà Antonio Simone , Ghezzi Fabio , Odicino Franco
Published: May 2024

Background:

Almost 10% of women in reproductive age are diagnosed with ovarian endometriomas and can experience symptoms and infertility disorders. Ovarian endometriomas can be treated with medical or surgical therapy.

Objective:

To assess whether long-term therapy with dienogest or oral cyclic estrogen-progestogens is effective in reducing the size of ovarian endometriomas, alleviating associated symptoms, and reducing the requirement for surgery.

Design:

Prospective non-interventional cohort study.

Methods:

We enrolled childbearing women diagnosed with ovarian endometriomas. We collected demographic, clinical, and surgical data, including the evaluation of ovarian endometrioma-associated symptoms and pain using the visual analog scale. We grouped the women according to treatment regimen into dienogest, estrogen-progestogens, and no-treatment. Patient’s assessment was performed at baseline and after 12 months evaluating the largest ovarian endometrioma diameter (in millimeters) and the associated symptoms. Furthermore, we analyzed the impact of hormonal treatment in a sub-group of women fulfilling at baseline the criteria for a first-line surgical approach (ovarian endometrioma > 30 mm with visual analog scale > 8 or ovarian endometrioma > 40 mm before assisted reproductive treatments or any ovarian endometrioma(s) > 60 mm).

Results:

We enrolled 142 patients: 62, 38, and 42 in dienogest, estrogen-progestogens, and no-treatment groups, respectively. No significant differences were found regarding baseline characteristics. After 12 months, the mean largest ovarian endometrioma diameter increased in the no-treatment group (31.1 versus 33.8; p < 0.01), while a significant reduction was registered in the dienogest (35.1 versus 25.8; p < 0.01) and estrogen-progestogens (28.4 versus 16.7; p < 0.01) groups; no significant difference in ovarian endometrioma diameter reduction between these two latter groups was noted (p = 0.18). Ovarian endometrioma-associated symptoms and pain improved in dienogest and estrogen-progestogens groups, with a significantly greater effect for dienogest than for estrogen-progestogens for dysmenorrhea (74% versus 59%; p < 0.01). In the sub-group of women eligible for first-line surgery at baseline, long-term treatment with dienogest and estrogen-progestogens reduced surgical eligibility by 30%.

Conclusions:

Decreased mean largest ovarian endometriomas’diameter after 12 months and reduction of the need for surgical treatment by 30% were observed in dienogest and estrogen-progestogens groups. Long-term treatment with dienogest had a greater effect in alleviating dysmenorrhea and pain.
Academic but not social self-esteem mediates the association between Chinese adolescents’ perceived parental psychological control and depressive symptoms
Authors: Wu Hao , Luo Shanhong , White Tyler , Klettner Annelise , Wei Chunxia
Published: May 2024

Parental psychological control has been consistently shown to have a strong impact on adolescents’ self-development and mental well-being. However, the majority of research on the link between parental psychological control, self-esteem, and mental health is conducted in Western nations and has primary focused on global self-esteem. The current study drew on non-Western data and tested a mediation model in which adolescents’ academic and social self-esteem were hypothesized to mediate the association between parental psychological control and depression. A large sample ( N = 3,257) of adolescents in southern China reported perceived psychological control from both their mother and father, their academic and social self-esteem, and depressive symptoms. Structural equation modeling results indicated that both mother and father control had significant direct effects on adolescent depression as well as significant indirect effects on depression through lower academic self-esteem. Social self-esteem failed to mediate the association between parental control and depression. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
Proposed Quality Indicators for Aspects of Pediatric Acute Otitis Media Management
Authors: Cottrell Justin , Namavarian Amirpouyan , Yip Jonathan , Campisi Paolo , Chadha Neil K. , Damji Ali , Hong Paul , Lachance Sophie , Leitao Darren , Nguyen Lily H. P. , Saunders Natasha , Strychowsky Julie , Yunker Warren , Vaccani Jean-Philippe , Chan Yvonne , de Almeida John R. , Eskander Antoine , Witterick Ian J. , Monteiro Eric
Published: May 2024

Background

The high incidence of pediatric acute otitis media (AOM) makes the implications of overdiagnosis and overtreatment far-reaching. Quality indicators (QIs) for AOM are limited, drawing from generalized upper respiratory infection QIs, or locally developed benchmarks. Recognizing this, we sought to develop pediatric AOM QIs to build a foundation for future quality improvement efforts.

Methods

Candidate indicators (CIs) were extracted from existing guidelines and position statements. The modified RAND Corporation/University of California, Los Angeles (RAND/UCLA) appropriateness methodology was used to select the final QIs by an 11-member expert panel consisting of otolaryngology—head and neck surgeons, a pediatrician and family physician.

Results

Twenty-seven CIs were identified after literature review, with an additional CI developed by the expert panel. After the first round of evaluations, the panel agreed on 4 CIs as appropriate QIs. After an expert panel meeting and subsequent second round of evaluations, the panel agreed on 8 final QIs as appropriate measures of high-quality care. The 8 final QIs focus on topics of antimicrobial management, specialty referral, and tympanostomy tube counseling.

Conclusions

Evidence of variable and substandard care persists in the diagnosis and management of pediatric AOM despite the existence of high-quality guidelines. This study proposes 8 QIs which compliment guideline recommendations and are meant to facilitate future quality improvement initiatives that can improve patient outcomes.
The Role of the Built Environment in Supporting Older Adults’ Engagement: A Narrative Literature Review
Authors: Gripko Monica , Joseph Anjali
Published: May 2024

Objective:

This literature review aimed to summarize the existing knowledge surrounding the role of the built environment in supporting older adults’ physical and social engagement and identify opportunities for future research and design that facilitates older adults’ engagement at multiple environmental scales: from interior spaces to neighborhoods.

Background:

Physical environments can support or impede older adults’ physical and social engagement: willful, motivated involvement in meaningful activity or occupation. Research shows that engagement is a core component of health and well-being and relates to positive health outcomes, including reduced disease risk, better mental health, and improved physical and cognitive function. Thus, designing supportive built environments for engagement can yield significant, positive health and well-being impacts.

Methods:

A systematized search of five databases, a hand search, and an iterative screening process identified 55 studies for inclusion in this review. Through inductive thematic analysis, this review summarizes findings regarding the built environment’s role in physical and social engagement in older age and design strategies to facilitate engagement and support health and well-being.

Results:

Evidence indicates that built environment characteristics can influence older people’s physical and social engagement in homes, neighborhoods, and care settings. The thematic analysis of the included studies identified three key themes concerning the relationships of built environment characteristics to older adults’ engagement across multiple environmental scales: connection, access, and security.

Conclusions:

Built environments influence older people’s physical and social engagement, significantly affecting their health, well-being, abilities, and longevity. Numerous design strategies can support older adults’ engagement, but more research is needed.
A Quantitative and Qualitative Exploration of Futuristic Narratives on TVTropes.org
Authors: Spearman Simeon
Published: May 2024

This paper embarks on a methodical exploration of TVTropes.org, a comprehensive crowd-sourced wiki that documents storytelling conventions across various forms of media, with a special focus on representations of artificial intelligence and future scenarios. The study delineates the multifaceted nature of the platform, asserting that its offerings extend beyond mere television tropes, and explores its potent applicability for futurists and scholars. Through the strategic application of web scraping and data analysis, this research quantifies diverse aspects of science fiction media and the embedded tropes therein. The paper underscores the pivotal role of tropes in shaping societal perceptions and influencing discourse, particularly in the realm of futuristic thinking, using instances such as the impact of “The Terminator” franchise on military strategic thinking as a case study. Furthermore, the research engages in a quantitative analysis of trope density and frequency within science fiction works, offering a nuanced understanding and uncovering patterns in storytelling conventions. This study thus offers a foundational framework for understanding, categorizing, and analyzing the influential images of the future that permeate today’s media environment, thereby providing a valuable resource for futurists, researchers, and media scholars in their respective endeavors.
From apparent pseudoprogression to durable complete remission of expansile destructive sinonasal mucosal melanoma under pembrolizumab after primary endoscopic resection: A case report
Authors: Lu Hung-Chun , Shen Ping-Hung , Kok Victor C
Published: May 2024

Head and neck mucosal melanoma is a rare but highly aggressive malignant tumor that usually has a poor prognosis. We describe a 53-year-old male patient, having no any medical history, with left maxillary sinus mucosal melanoma causing bilateral lung metastasis. Rapid tumor regrowth was observed on the 49th day after radical tumor resection. Subsequent pembrolizumab immunotherapy initially elicited pseudoprogression, for which add-on radiation therapy was carried out during maintenance pembrolizumab. A gradual decrease in tumor volume and complete remission were observed by a series of magnetic resonance imaging scans and lung windows of a computer tomography scan of chest. At the 29-month follow-up, the patient was rendered disease-free. In conclusion, head and neck mucosal melanoma may regrow rapidly after surgical resection and pseudoprogression could be frightening during immunotherapy. Subsequent single-agent pembrolizumab plus localized radiation therapy aiming to release more tumor antigens may offer the possibility of long-term remission.
Myocardial infarction in young individual: A case report of polycythemia vera-induced acute inferior wall myocardial infarction
Authors: Raza Sarmad , Khan Jehandad , Shah Aresha Masood , Khan Maaz
Published: May 2024

Acute coronary syndrome is commonly associated with traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Myocardial infarction in a young person presents a significant challenge because its etiology is least likely associated with atherosclerosis. Polycythemia vera refers to one of the rare causes of myocardial infarction, which involves enhanced erythrocyte levels, leukocytosis, thrombocytosis, splenomegaly, and a greater chance of vascular occlusion due to clotting in coronary arteries. A 22-year-old male from Pakistan, Asia without typical risk factors, presented with severe chest pain. Electrocardiography indicated acute inferior wall myocardial infarction, and streptokinase was administered. Subsequent investigations confirmed polycythemia vera. Treatment with hydroxyurea and aspirin was initiated, whereas normal coronary arteries in CT coronary angiogram were observed. This case highlights polycythemia vera’s rare role in young individuals’ heart attacks without known risk factors, emphasizing the need for early detection and specialized treatments involving hematologists to prevent future thrombotic episodes.
Long-lasting hypoaldosteronism after adrenalectomy in a cat with hyperaldosteronism
Authors: Bouccara Léa , Dunie-Merigot Antoine , Poujol Laure , Blond Laurent , Jolivet Franck
Published: May 2024

Case summary

A 10-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented with an abdominal mass, associated renal failure, chronic vomiting, anorexia and progressive polyuria/polydipsia lasting for 3 weeks. Clinical examination and initial blood work revealed azotaemia, hypokalaemia and hypertension. Abdominal ultrasound showed an adrenal mass with a diameter of 3 cm near the right kidney. High serum aldosterone suggested primary hyperaldosteronism. Surgery enabled identification of the mass and its excision along with the right adrenal gland. Histologically, carcinoma of the adrenal cortex was diagnosed. Postoperatively, an increase in serum creatinine and potassium, along with a low serum aldosterone, led to a diagnosis of hypoaldosteronism. Mineralocorticoid therapy for 6 months was necessary, resulting in clinical and biological improvement.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this case describes the longest-lasting reported secondary hypoaldosteronism in a cat, after unilateral adrenalectomy for an adrenal carcinoma with hyperaldosteronism.
Black social media influencers engage higher percentages of Black gay and bisexual men in online outreach for HIV prevention research relative to paid ads
Authors: Fahey Owen B , Carr Daniel J , Ocean Erik MS , Nittas Vasilios , Kane Chanda Phelan , Monti Peter M , Wray Tyler B
Published: May 2024

Background

Influencer-based social media marketing campaigns are a popular strategy to engage customers in many non-research industries (e.g., retail), but have been increasingly used in public health campaigns to reach and engage specific populations. However, few studies have directly compared the performance of influencer-based marketing with other ad strategies (e.g., paid ads) in achieving these goals.

Methods

From March to September 2023, we conducted an influencer-focused marketing campaign in which we identified and partnered with predominantly Black LGBTQ + influencers in the United States South to promote engagement in our ongoing research. We then used web analytics and interest form data to compare performance of influencer posts versus paid ads over the same time period.

Results

We contacted a total of 358 influencers, 20 of whom ultimately agreed to post (85% Black/African American) and made a total of 28 posts on our behalf. A significantly higher percentage of users who clicked through influencer posts were Black (40% vs. 15%), were not currently using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) (67% vs. 62%), had no history of PrEP use (78% vs. 72%), and reported higher medical mistrust (12% vs. 8%) compared to those who clicked through paid ads. The percentage of Black men who have sex with men who were at high HIV risk, who were not taking PrEP, had no history of PrEP, or were high in mistrust, were all 2–3 times higher among those who clicked through influencer posts relative to paid ads.

Conclusions

Influencer-focused marketing may be a powerful tool to efficiently reach and engage high-priority and hard to reach populations.