bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Further Use of Lactone Chemistry to Improve the Performance Cost Profile of Traditional Antioxidant Stabilization Systems*
Authors: Kenny John
Published: September 2024

All polyolefin-based plastics materials undergo oxidation reactions, which can occur at every stage in the life cycle of a polymer during manufacture and storage, as well as in processing and end use. Antioxidant systems protect polymers against oxidation by controlling the molecular weight changes that lead to a loss of physical, mechanical and optical properties. Traditional stabilizer systems for polyolefins are typically based on a combination of a phenolic antioxidant and a phosphorus based melt processing stabilizer. The phenolic antioxidant provides melt processing stability as a hydrogen atom donor and free radical scavenger, but is also incorporated to achieve some desired level ofthermal stability. The phosphorus-based melt processing stabilizer functions as a hydroperoxide decomposer during the melt compounding step.

Recently, Ciba introduced a powerful new melt processing stabilizer based on lactone chemistry. The addition of this new chemistry to the traditional binary systems boosts the stabilization performance, while having a positive impact on the performancecost profile of the system. The benefits of the lactone chemistry are also seen when it is combined with high performance phosphorus-based processing stabilizers, and when it is used with phenolic antioxidants for specific end use applications. This paper presents performance data for traditional binary antioxidant systems, high performance phosphorus based systems, and phenolic antioxidants, when they are combined with the lactone. The paper also describes the performance of new polyol systems based on lactone technology. The data demonstrates the opportunity for an improvement in the performance cost profile of these systems when combined with lactone chemistry.
Synthetic Fibres by Franz Fourné
Authors: McIlhagger Robert
Published: September 2024

Synthetic fibres form an important aspect of our everyday life and this book provides a very detailed and comprehensive account of the manufacture, test and analysis of synthetic fibres. The book traces the development of man-made (synthetic) fibres from the early attempts to produce fibrous materials from polyvinyl-chloride, polyurethane and polyamide through to the high tech products recently produced from carbon and aramid. It provides an excellent account of the processes, plant layout and machinery required for fibre production. It draws parallels, in performance terms, with natural fibres and importantly considers blends of different synthetic fibres and synthetic fibres with natural fibres so that the best of both worlds can be achieved.
Uni-Axial Drawing of Sheets made from Recycled PET Flakes and Poly(ε-caprolactone) Blends
Authors: Qi Kun , Nakayama Kazuo
Published: September 2024

Sheets made by blending recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (R-PET) flakes and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) have been investigated under uni-axial drawing as functions of the draw conditions and blend component. For blend sheets with 5-10% PCL, uniaxial hot stretching could be achieved at temperature 10°C lower than for pure R-PET sheets. By combining wide-angle X-ray diffraction and microwave molecular orientation analysis, it was shown that orientation was developed in the sheets with increasing draw ratio. Thermal analysis indicates that the drawn sheets had higher crystallinity in the PET phase. The crystallization of the PCL phase in the blend sheets was found to be independent of draw ratio and no orientation of PCL was observed. The PCL had no effect on the thermal behaviour of PET. The dynamic-mechanical behaviour of the drawn samples was in good agreement with the thermal analysis, and confirms the presence of strain-induced crystallization and orientation in the PET phase only.
Fluoropolymers in the Purification of Hydrogen Halides
Authors: Blum G.Z. , Ryabenko E. A. , Yaroshenko A.M. , Zaikov G.E. , Zaikov V.G.
Published: September 2024

A number of properties offluoropolymers in aqueous solutions of hydrogen halides have been investigated. The results enable fluoropolymers to be used in the purification of hydrogen halides and their aqueous solutions. The hydrophobicity of fluoropolymers and their diffusion permeability enable production of hydrogen halides of low moisture content. A second unit for hydro-ionic convection is based on hydro-ionic repulsion (determined by the hydrophobic properties of the fluoropolymer) and ionic elimination. The two units enable the highly effective. ecologically safe manufacture of highly pure hydrogen halides and their aqueous solutions to be carried out with minimum feedstock. cooling water. and power consumption.
Boehmite-reinforced Poly(phenylene sulphide) as a Wear/Corrosion Resistant Coating
Authors: Sugama T. , Hayenga P.
Published: September 2024

Exposure of semi-crystalline poly(phenylene sulphide) (PPS) coatings to a simulated geothermal environment containing acid (pH ~ 1.6) brine at 200°C resulted in a decline in its crystallinity over time. This decrease was due primarily to an increase in the degree of hydrothermal oxidation of the PPS surfaces, thereby lowering their resistance to wear from blasting. To improve the resistance of the coating’s surfaces, aluminium oxide-rich calcium aluminate (ACA) fillers were incorporated into the PPS. The sulphuric acid in the brine permeated through the coating, and then preferentially reacted with calcium in the ACA to form water-soluble calcium sulphate which leaches out from ACA particles during exposure. The hydrothermal hydration reactions of calcium-depleted ACA led to the formation of a well-crystallized boehmite coexisting with the PPS. The in-situ growth of boehmite crystals formed in the ~ 65 μm-thick surface layer reinforced the oxidation-damaged PPS, and improved the coating’s resistance to blasting wear. Also, PPS coatings containing an appropriate amount of ACA showed a better performance in protecting the underlying steels against corrosion than that of the bulk PPS coatings without ACA.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Copper-Powder-Filled High Density Polyethylene Composites
Authors: Rusu M. , Sofian Nicoleta , Ibanescu Constanta , Rusu Daniela
Published: September 2024

HDPE/copper powder composites have been characterised from the point of view of mechanical and thermal properties. Results are presented for copper contents varying between 0 and 24 vol%. Generally, the composites present poorer mechanical properties than the unfilled polymer but a better thermal stability. The experimental data were interpreted using appropriate theoretical models and morphological information based on optical microscopy.
Criteria For, and Examples of Optimal Choice of Flame Retardants
Authors: Litzenburger Achim
Published: September 2024

What would our lives be without plastics? Better or worse? The same question is valid for chemical compounds, especially fire-retardants, being added to polymers to enhance and tailor polymer properties. Within five main types of fire retardants a significant number of compounds serve one goal: improve resistance against fire!

For decades, innumerable applications prove the universal utility of brominated fire-retardants. Today, cost optimization of final compounds is very often the main driving force to reduce fire safety or to use the cheapest flame retardant available. By referring to applications, this paper reflects the influence of different properties and suggests guidelines for optimal choice of fire retardants.
We Should Celebrate, Not Censor, Learning From Epidemiologic History
Authors: Finkel Adam M.
Published: September 2024

The controversy over whether repeated head impact (RHI)—a feature of occupations including professional contact sports, military service, firefighting, and logging—can cause the neurodegenerative disease now known as CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy) has thrust many positive epidemiologic studies into the spotlight. Various skeptics who dispute that the relationship is strong and causal continue to raise objections to these studies and their interpretation. The arguments these skeptics use remind other observers of many past sagas of “manufactured doubt,” particularly the history of attempts to cast doubt on the propensity of tobacco products to cause lung cancer. A recent article in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport3 complained that drawing the parallel between RHI and cigarettes is unhelpful, concluding that “the time for politically motivated analogies has now passed.” This author disagrees, and explains in detail 2 scientific aspects of risk assessment and management that make the analogy apt and instructive for the future. In particular, I argue that the problem of “manufactured doubt” here is two-fold: it relies on various fallacies of reasoning discussed herein, but more importantly, it seeks to divert and delay the utilitarian imperative—while we grope toward the ever-elusive certainty, there are many low-regret actions we can and should take on the basis of persuasive signals of harm.
In Pursuit of a Person-Centered Approach to Care Delivery: A Qualitative Descriptive Study of the Patient Experience of a Long-Term Conditions Clinic in General Practice
Authors: Wilson Gillian , Hutchison Jacqueline Sarah
Published: September 2024

Innovative ways of working are emerging in health care to meet the complex needs of people living with multiple long-term conditions. While these initiatives are often measured for their health and economic outcomes, few studies prioritize the patient experience. This qualitative descriptive study is one of a few studies exploring the patient experience of attending a dedicated long-term conditions annual review clinic in a primary care setting in England. The service model aims to provide a person-centered, holistic approach to the management and support of people living with multiple long-term conditions. The study presents findings from in-depth interviews with 12 participants. Data analyzed through framework analysis revealed four themes relating to the patient experience: the clinic as a place, continuity, staying healthy, and partnership opportunities. Results highlight the challenges to providing personalized care. We found that attendance at the clinic prompted self-care behaviors, however, patients wanted a more holistic, integrated, and consistent service that provided continuity of therapeutic relationships that involved them in decision-making and care planning. We conclude that the experience of patients in this study suggests this service model can enable patients to manage their health and improve well-being, however, while a person-centered philosophy may underpin service models, our research shows that ensuring this philosophy is born out in service delivery and recognized by patients is problematic. Therefore, service providers need to recognize the values and perspectives of patients, aligning these with the design and delivery of services.
Echoes of a Slow Goodbye: A Daughter's Experiences of Dealing With Her Father's Terminal Ailment
Authors: Kaushik Archana
Published: September 2024

This heuristic research delves into the narrative of a daughter's journey as she encounters her father's battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Through an in-depth exploration of themes, including the trajectory of the illness, the market–health service nexus, financial strains, and the complexities and practical nuances of geriatric care and end-of-life care, this study uncovers the multifaceted experiences and challenges usually encountered by a family. It examines the uncertainty surrounding the illness, assuming new roles, and the emotional landscape of grief and acceptance. The study reveals how individuals navigate feelings of loss, anger, and sorrow while finding moments of appreciation, resilience, and closure amidst the gradual decline and eventual farewell. It offers insights into the lived experiences of families coping with terminal illness, shedding light on the needs and challenges associated with the care of a dying member and embracing life's fleeting moments.
The Impact of Female Top Management Team Representation on a Firm's Supplier Orientation and Performance
Authors: Gligor David , Kashmiri Saim , Golgeci Ismail
Published: September 2024

The role and impact of females in supply chain management have received insufficient attention in extant research. In addition, research investigating the relationship between upper-echelon leadership and supply chain phenomena is extremely scant. To address these limitations, we collected archival data from 433 publicly traded Fortune 500 firms from 2007 to 2015 (3464 firm-year observations) and analyzed them using fixed-effect regressions. Our findings indicate that female top management team representation directly and positively influences a firm's supplier orientation. This influence of female representation is attenuated for firms that have a Chief Supply Chain Officer present in their top management team and for firms operating in environments characterized by high dynamism and low munificence. Furthermore, our findings show that supplier orientation mediates the impact of female top management team representation on firm performance. We put forth several interesting theoretical and managerial contributions. Most importantly, we hope that our findings, highlighting the positive impact of female executives on supplier orientation and providing additional evidence regarding women's managerial capabilities, will contribute towards eliminating bias and discrimination faced by women in the area of supply chain management and business in general.
Cefepime-Enmetazobactam: A Drug Review of a Novel Beta-Lactam/Beta-Lactamase Inhibitor
Authors: Lanier Cameron , Melton Tyler , Covert Kelly
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To describe and analyze the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties and clinical evidence supporting the efficacy and use of cefepime-enmetazobactam (FEP-EMT).

Data Sources:

A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases (January 2015 to May 2024). Search terms included: “cefepime-enmetazobactam” or “cefepime” or “enmetazobactam” or “cefepime” or “novel beta-lactamase inhibitor” and “complicated urinary tract infection” or “cUTI.” Conference abstracts, bibliographies, clinical trials, and drug monographs were included for review.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Relevant studies in English and clinical trials conducted in humans were reviewed.

Data Synthesis:

In February 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the combination beta-lactam/beta-lactamase inhibitor (BL/BLI) FEP-EMT for the treatment of complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) and acute pyelonephritis following the completion of the Phase III ALLIUM trial comparing it to piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP). The trial resulted in 79.1% of the FEP-EMT group versus 58.9% of the TZP group meeting the primary outcome of clinical cure and microbiological eradication (95% CI 21.2 [14.3 to 27.9]).

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice in Comparison to Existing Agents:

This review describes the use of FEP-EMT for the treatment of cUTI and compares its use to other novel BL/BLI combinations including utility in drug-resistant infections.

Conclusions:

FEP-EMT provides an antimicrobial option to reduce overuse of carbapenems for extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Enterobacteriaceae. However, unlike other novel BL/BLI combinations, its limited spectrum of antibacterial effect for more difficult-to-treat pathogens and cost may also impact its overall utilization.
Clients’ Intuitions in Career Decision Making: Should Career Counselors Trust Them?
Authors: Gati Itamar , Izrailevitch Valentina , Tatar Moshe
Published: September 2024

Intuition often plays a significant role in many decisions, including career decisions. 412 deliberating individuals who used Comparing and Choosing ( C&C), a free Internet-based career-decision-support system were asked about their intuitions – which occupation on their shortlist is more suitable. The occupation they marked as more suitable intuitively was compared with the outcomes of a systematic comparison of the occupations on their shortlist using C&C. Three facets of the participants’ intuitions were compared: (1) implicit––the first occupation on their shortlist; (2) explicit––the occupation they marked as more suitable; (3) the participants’ use of intuition elicited by the Career Decision-Making Profile questionnaire . C&C provides a suitability score for each occupation based on a multi-attribute decision-making model that weighs each occupation’s advantages and disadvantages. The first-listed occupation scored higher in suitability than the second, reflecting the informativeness of implicit intuitions. 74% of participants had explicit intuitions and marked one occupation on their shortlist as more suitable; for 60% of these participants, this occupation yielded the highest suitability score in C&C. As hypothesized, participants who reported a higher reliance on intuition marked intuitively the occupation that emerged as best in C&C. The limited informativeness of intuitions in career decision making was discussed.
Distributed Space Team Coordination: An Agent-based Modeling and Simulation Approach
Authors: Yin Xiaoyun , Gorman Jamie C.
Published: September 2024

Space missions present unique challenges for teams, requiring effective communication, coordination, and cooperation under stress and physical strain. As humans venture further into space, communication latency becomes a significant challenge, with delays ranging from seconds to minutes. This latency affects team performance and cognitive load, whether the team consists of humans, machines, or both. Shared mental models can help manage these delays, but the lack of “shared context” due to varied physical environments can impede their development. Extensive astronaut training, lasting 5 to 10 years, makes realistic simulation of space tasks challenging for study participants. Using an Agent-Based Model (ABM) and a scenario built from interviews with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), this study simulates complex interactions and coordination challenges in space teaming, addressing the complexities and dynamic nature of space missions.
The Curriculum Policy of Book Banning in Schools
Authors: VanTassel-Baska Joyce
Published: September 2024

This column is devoted to the argument that book banning policies may have an adverse effect on gifted students and their programming as well as on all students. Decisions about books for gifted learners should be based on the goals of gifted programs and tools for addressing those goals. We argue for free and open access to reading high quality literature for the gifted at all stages of development, given their advanced reading skills, interest, and incipient capacity to think.
Participatory Civic Media and Democracy: How ‘Documenters’ Make Sense of Their Work
Authors: Nickels Ashley E. , Rubado Meghan E. , Feairheller Caraline
Published: September 2024

The Documenters Network began in 2018 as a participatory journalism project in Chicago and has since expanded to additional U.S. cities. The Network provides centralized information on local public meetings and trains and pays citizens to document public meetings. Documenters are operating in Atlanta, Cleveland, Detroit, Fresno, Minneapolis, and Omaha, among other cities. Using an original survey and structured interviews with a sample of Cleveland Documenters, we explore how Documenters see themselves as actors in urban politics. We explore whether Documenting—for the Documenters—is about building civic engagement, holding accountable local government officials, and/or sharing public information with the community. Given the shifting local journalism scene—with declining city newspapers and the entry of major nonprofit news operations—we expect Documenters’ understandings of the role are evolving.
Theory-Driven Behavioral Obesity Treatment and Carry-Over of Exercise-Related, to Eating-Related, Self-Regulation: Effects on Short- and Long-Term Weight/Waist Circumference Reductions
Authors: Annesi James J.
Published: September 2024

The predominant method for treating obesity has been suggesting and providing information on a controlled diet and, to a lesser extent, increased exercise. That approach has largely failed beyond the short term for many decades as obesity rates continue to rise. Therefore, leveraging improvements in psychosocial correlates of weight-loss behaviors has sometimes been suggested instead. The aim of this study was evaluation of targeted improvements in self-regulation and self-efficacy within a theoretically derived weight-loss program. Women with obesity ( N = 103) participated in a year-long community-based program emphasizing self-regulatory skills development to counter lifestyle barriers/challenges to first exercise, then controlled eating. Within a structured treatment protocol administered by community facility employees–and based on tenets of social cognitive theory, self-regulation theory, self-efficacy theory, and coaction theory–self-regulatory skills were initially developed to foster adherence to exercise. Those skills were then adapted to promote eating-behavior changes, emphasizing fruit and vegetable intake. Improvements in measures of exercise self-regulation, eating self-regulation, and self-efficacy for controlling eating, their corresponding behaviors, and weight and waist circumference were significant. Greater within-participant carry-over of changes in exercise self-regulation to eating self-regulation was significantly associated with more weight and waist circumference reductions over both 6 and 12 months. Change in eating-related self-efficacy significantly mediated those relationships. The mean weight reduction of approximately 6% indicated positive effects on obesity-related health risks. The community-based setting indicated potentials for large-scale dissemination of theory- and evidence-driven behavioral obesity treatments focused primarily on self-regulatory skills development.
Performance of applications of Ophytrium-containing mousse with or without shampoo in cats with pruritic and irritated skin: a multicentre prospective field trial
Authors: Dropsy Hélène , De Jaeger Xavier , Cozar Alicia , Billy Charlotte , Bressolin Aude , Briand Amaury , Debraine Marion , Deschamps Véronique , Noli Chiara , Puozzo-Barichard Aude , Gatellet Marina
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a protocol in which topical products (DOUXO S3 CALM Shampoo and Mousse; Ceva Santé Animale) containing Ophytrium were applied to cats to help manage feline atopic syndrome (FAS).

Methods

A total of 23 client-owned cats with a history of FAS and presenting irritated skin and pruritus were recruited for this study. The cats were either shampooed or moussed on day 0 (D0) and then moussed every 48–72 h for 3 weeks. On D0, D7 and D21, clinical signs were assessed using the validated scoring system, Scoring Feline Allergic Dermatitis (SCORFAD). Pruritus was graded by the owner using an adapted dual visual analogue scale (Pruritus Visual Analog Scale for Cats [VAScat]). Veterinarians also assessed pruritus intensity and frequency, and provided a subjective assessment of global skin condition and of improvements in each cat’s condition. On D21, all questionnaires were collected from both veterinarians and owners.

Results

Among the 19 cats that completed the study, the SCORFAD and VASmax (maximum value of VAScat, either scratching or licking) scores improved by ⩾50% in 63.2% and 38.9% of animals, respectively. Mean SCORFAD values decreased significantly between D0 and D21 (from 6.2 to 2.8, P <0.05). Similarly, mean VASmax values decreased significantly between D0 and D21 (from 7.4 to 4.3, P <0.05). Overall, veterinarians assessed the improvement as satisfactory, good or excellent in 18/19 (94.7%) cases. The protocol was considered efficient and practical by 18/19 (94.7%) and 19/19 (100%) owners, respectively, and the resulting good condition of skin and coat was emphasised by 15/19 (78.9%) owners.

Conclusions and relevance

This topical protocol with Ophytrium-containing mousse and shampoo was well tolerated. The products were effective in reducing skin irritation and discomfort quickly and significantly in cats with skin irritation and pruritus, yielding high satisfaction levels among both veterinarians and owners.
Efficacy of antimicrobial-impregnated catheters in preventing sepsis post epicutaneo-caval catheter (ECC) removal in neonates: A retrospective study
Authors: Al Khateeb Mohammad Ayman , Gad Ashraf , Mahmah Mohamad Adnan , Al Khzzam Fadi Abdulhay , Rivera Joy Ann Borromeo , van Rens Matheus
Published: September 2024

Background:

Epicutaneo-caval catheters (ECC) are vital in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in enabling prolonged venous access. Despite their benefits, central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) pose a potential risk. The ECC removal procedure may contribute to an increased risk of post removal sepsis through biofilm release. Antimicrobial-impregnated ECCs have been proposed as a potential solution to prevent this complication, but research on their effectiveness in neonates is limited.

Objective:

To compare post-ECC or neonatal peripherally inserted central catheter (n-PICCs) removal sepsis rates when using conventional or antimicrobial-impregnated catheters in neonates.

Methods:

A retrospective, single center cohort analysis using 2019 data from 421 neonates after successful ECC insertion at the Women’s W﻿ellness and R﻿esearch Center, a large tertiary level NICU in Qatar. The study systematically collected data on demographics, insertion, and removal as well as microbiology, and infection data. Statistical analyses compared conventional and antimicrobial ECCs, with a focus on the incidence of sepsis within 72 hr post-removal.

Results:

After excluding non-eligible, 349 cases were included in the analysis (138 conventional, 211 antimicrobial-impregnated). There were no significant demographic differences between the two groups. The CLABSI incidence was higher amongst the antimicrobial ECC group (4% vs 0.6%, p = 0.031). Among the included neonates, the confirmed post-removal sepsis incidence was 4.3% (6 cases) for the conventional and 10% (21 cases) for the antimicrobial ECC groups, which was not statistically significant ( p = 0.055).

Conclusion:

The study noted a higher, but statistically insignificant, incidence of post removal sepsis when using antimicrobial-impregnated ECCs. This finding raises questions about the effectiveness of antimicrobial ECCs in preventing post-removal sepsis in this patient population. Further randomized trials are needed to assess the role of antimicrobial ECCs amongst neonates and to refine neonatal ECC care strategies.
Our words matter: finding consensus on evolving and personal language around suicide, mental health concerns and alcohol and other drug use
Authors: Paton Elizabeth , Jones Emma Pryse , Peprah Jennifer , Benson Mel
Published: September 2024

The words we use to talk about suicide, mental health concerns and alcohol and other drug use matter. They play a crucial role in shaping public perceptions and can reinforce shame and stigma, impact help-seeking behaviours and impede long-term recovery. In some cases, the words we use may lead to increased suicidal behaviour in our communities. This paper outlines the development of new language guidelines with best-practice advice for communicating about mental health and wellbeing, mental health concerns, suicide, and alcohol and other drug use. The development of this new guidance and supporting resources included consultation with people with lived and living experience and from priority populations alongside sector experts and professional communicators in a series of focus groups and surveys in order to understand if there was consensus on what constitutes best practice. The project built on existing guidance about language use, such as the Mindframe program, to deliver updated and evidence-informed guidelines for use across sectors. Not only do the guidelines aim to reduce the harm caused by poor communication, but also aim to ‘do good’. Language that empowers and supports those impacted by mental health concerns or suicide moves us towards a more inclusive, understanding society.
Exploring how ‘wish-granting’ interventions foster wellbeing for children with life-threatening health conditions and their families: A qualitative study
Authors: Heath Gemma , Screti Cassandra , Knibb Rebecca
Published: September 2024

Wish-granting is a form of positive psychological intervention that seeks to promote child wellbeing by fulfilling a wish of their choice. This study aimed to explore families’ experiences of receiving wish-granting interventions to understand how wishes impact wellbeing. Fifty in-depth semi-structured interviews were carried out with 22 families (23 parents, 17 young people); seven charity volunteers; and five health professionals, recruited from the United Kingdom. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a thematic framework approach. Findings suggest wishes improve wellbeing by increasing positive emotion; by broadening families’ horizons; by providing an alternative focus; and by fostering opportunities for togetherness. To grow and maintain impact, consideration should be given to developing strategies that increase anticipation; keep wish memories alive; encourage children to make wishes that stretch their perceived limitations; and facilitate families to share their experiences and ‘give back’ to the community.
‘I leave most of the decisions up to her:’ Gendered parenting, un/equal decision work, and responsibility for COVID-19 vaccination
Authors: McKenzie Lara , Tomkinson Sian , Attwell Katie
Published: September 2024

Vaccination scholarship focuses on how privilege, individualized choice and ‘intensive’ and ‘natural’ parenthood – often motherhood – lead people to delay or not vaccinate their children. Recently, examining parents’ vaccination responsibilities – and the inequalities in paid employment and unpaid care work underpinning them – has become important to understand COVID-19. This article asks who makes vaccination decisions for their children under the age of five, what COVID-19 vaccine decisions are made and how these decisions are gendered. We draw on interviews with 18 Western Australian heterosexual parents. Tracking the responsibilization of mothers and fathers, we contribute a gendered analysis of vaccine ‘decision work.’ We note that norms of intensive parenting led parents to accept or reject vaccines. Like women, men can engage in and support intensive parenting – especially where vaccines are new or widely discussed, or men are available for care work. Overall, we find some potential for children's COVID-19 vaccination to produce more responsibilized fathers and mothers.
Integration of Psychological Services With Preventive Cardiology Consults: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Toole Joseph , Vartak Natasha , Vrany Elizabeth , Vaidean Georgeta , Goschin Simona , Kogan Jerome , Rosen Stacey , Gianos Eugenia
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Psychological distress can have a significant impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and efforts to treat psychological distress may improve CVD risk factors. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective feasibility of implementation study to assess the utilization of short-term psychotherapy in patients engaged in a cardiovascular prevention program. Methods: Participants included patients engaged in the Women’s Health or Preventive Cardiology programs from January 2019 to June 2022. Patients were referred for psychology services if deemed likely to benefit from improvements in their psychological well-being to control their CVD risk factors. Biomarkers were obtained within 6 months pre- and post-therapy. Results: More than half (52.8%) of the 36 patients referred to the program attended ≥6 psychotherapy sessions. In patients with HTN, 50% were above goal (130/80 mmHg) pre-therapy and 20.8% post-therapy. 55.5% of patients with an LDL-C ≥100 mg/dL pre-therapy achieved an LDL-C <100 mg/dL post-therapy. Among patients with a hemoglobin A1c ≥5.7% pre-therapy, 12.5% lowered their hemoglobin A1c to <5.7%. Conclusion: Our study shows the potential benefit of psychological services when delivered concurrently with preventive cardiology visits. These findings raise the possibility that expanding access to psychology services in clinical cardiology care may be a model to reduce excess cardiovascular risk factor burdens.
Asthma as a child: continuous attentiveness to breathing to participate in everyday activities – need for support
Authors: Sundal Hildegunn
Published: September 2024

Background:

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases in childhood.

Aims:

This study explores the experiences of participating in everyday activities among children with asthma.

Methods:

The study employed a qualitative design and was grounded in a hermeneutic-phenomenological approach. The data were collected through in-depth interviews with four children aged 9–12 diagnosed with asthma.

Results:

One theme was ‘heavy breathing stopping the body in motion’, and subthemes were as follows: ‘experiencing intrusive wheezing’, ‘calming one’s breath to participate’ and ‘being sick and refraining from participating’. Another theme was ‘help in everyday life and support to participate’, and subthemes were as follows: ‘taking the necessary asthma medicine’, ‘being understood and met as sick’ and ‘adapting one’s leisure activities’.

Conclusions:

To participate in everyday activities, children with asthma require insight into and an understanding of the importance of taking asthma medicine as recommended. They also need help in everyday life and support to participate in everyday activities. Children taking care of their own illnesses and listening to their bodies provide them with the greatest degree of participation in activities in their everyday lives. These findings represent an important contribution to the understanding of nursing care for children with asthma.
Navigating antenatal care: The lived experiences of adolescent girls and young women and caregiver perspectives in Zambia
Authors: Young Alinda M. , Okpara Natasha , Chelwa Nachela , Mwape Mary , Kayawa Jessy , Nkwengele Nchimunya , Mabai Cecilia , Nyblade Laura , Mbizvo Michael , Subramanian Sujha
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Adolescent pregnancy remains a global concern, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Sub-Saharan African nations, including Zambia, bear a disproportionate burden of adolescent pregnancies, contributing to high rates of maternal and child mortality. Despite efforts to improve antenatal care (ANC) services, utilization rates remain suboptimal, especially among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW).

Objective:

To explore the barriers and facilitators to ANC services among AGYW and how these factors might differ by age and HIV status.

Design:

This qualitative study employs a combination of in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to gather comprehensive insights into the experiences of AGYW regarding ANC services. The study design follows a socio-ecological framework (SEF) to identify multiple levels of influence on ANC utilization.

Methods:

We conducted 40 IDIs with AGYW aged 15–24; and 2 FGDs with caregivers of AGYW ( n = 16). IDIs explored AGYWs barriers and facilitators to accessing and utilizing healthcare services during pregnancy, as well as social support and HIV treatment and prevention. FGD topics included social support, barriers and facilitators to ANC, and HIV services. We developed a codebook based on the SEF and coded transcripts using Dedoose software.

Results:

Results showed that early pregnancy knowledge did not always translate to AGYW seeking ANC services right away or within the first trimester. More than half of the AGYW did not initiate ANC until well into the second trimester. Factors including lack of motivation, denial of pregnancy, desires to terminate pregnancies, social norms, policies, clinic environment, and financial constraints contributed to delays in ANC initiation. Social support from family, partners, peers, and the community were crucial motivators for early ANC. Lastly, challenges to ANC continuation included lack of transportation, long clinic waiting times, perceived provider indifference, and stigma at both community and clinic levels.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, gaining insights from qualitative data is essential for comprehensively understanding the barriers and challenges to accessing ANC among this specific age group. By identifying and addressing these barriers while enhancing facilitators, effective programs can be developed and implemented to improve the health and well-being of young mothers and their children.
Stratified distributional analysis—a novel perspective on RT distributions
Authors: Thul Rüdiger , Marsh Joseph , Dijkstra Ton , Conklin Kathy
Published: September 2024

Response times and their distributions serve as a powerful lens into cognitive processes. We present a novel statistical methodology called stratified distributional analysis (SDA) to quantitatively assess how key determinants of response times (word frequency and length) shape their distributions. Taking advantage of the availability of millions of lexical decision response times in the English Lexicon Project and the British Lexicon Project, we made important advances into the theoretical issue of linking response times and word frequency by analysing RT distributions as a function of word frequency and word length. We tested these distributions against the lognormal, Wald, and gamma distributions and three measures of word occurrence (word form frequencies obtained from subtitles and contextual diversity as operationalised as discourse contextual diversity and user contextual diversity). We found that the RT distributions were best described by a lognormal distribution across both megastudies when word occurrence was quantified by a contextual diversity measure. The link between the lognormal distribution and its generative process highlights the power of SDA in elucidating mechanisms that govern the generation of RTs through the fitting of probability distributions. Using a hierarchical Bayesian framework, SDA yielded posterior distributions for the distributional parameters at the single-participant level, enabling probabilistic predictions of response times as a function of word frequency and word length, which has the potential to serve as a diagnostic tool to uncover idiosyncratic features of word processing. Crucially, while we applied our parsimonious methodology to lexical decision response times, it is applicable to a variety of tasks such as word-naming and eye-tracking data.
The impact of partially covered faces on trust attribution, sharing resources, and perceived fairness of one’s own choices in Ultimatum Game
Authors: Mastromatteo Libera Ylenia , Tedaldi Elisa , Scrimin Sara , Rubaltelli Enrico
Published: September 2024

Covered faces have been linked with impaired emotion recognition; yet, it is entirely unexplored how an occlusion due to face masks may affect individuals’ behaviour in economic decisions. Across two studies, we explored whether partially covered faces (due to mask wearing or a horizontal black bar) and emotion displayed by the responder influence peoples’ sharing behaviour in the Ultimatum Game and the perceived fairness of one’s proposal.

Study 1 showed participants were more willing to equally share their resources with a happy face (compared to a neutral one). In addition, they were more willing to make a fair proposal when the person displayed was not wearing a face mask. Our results also provide evidence that, when people had to judge how fair their proposal was, participants rated a fair proposal as fairer when responders showed happy faces without masks, while unfair proposals were rated as fairer with happy masked faces; similarly, angry faces led to fairer ratings for fair offers without masks and unfair offers with masks. Study 2 partially confirmed previous results, highlighting how a simple occlusion on the face does not have a direct effect on the proposal but moderates the effect of the displayed emotions.

These findings indicate that social interactions might be affected by face occlusion, especially when it is represented by a face mask. Indeed, people might judge the same behaviour in different ways based on the fact that their counterpart has a partially covered face.
Comparison of risk of malignancy and predictive value of diagnostic categories defined by Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology system and WHO reporting system for pancreaticobiliary cytopathology in solid pancreatic lesions
Authors: Vasas Béla , Fábián Anna , Bősze Zsófia , Hamar Sándor , Kaizer László , Tóth Tibor , Bacsur Péter , Resál Tamás , Bálint Anita , Farkas Klaudia , Molnár Tamás , Szepes Zoltán , Bor Renáta
Published: September 2024

Background:

The standardized diagnostic categories defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) reporting system support the interdisciplinary interpretation of cytological findings in the management of pancreatic cancer.

Objective:

To compare this classification to the Papanicolaou Society of Cytopathology (PSC) system in terms of predictive value and risk of malignancy (ROM) in solid pancreatic lesions.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

All consecutive patients with solid pancreatic lesions who underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) sampling at the University of Szeged from 2014 to 2021 were retrospectively enrolled. The predictive value and ROM of cytological findings were determined with comparison to histologic outcome and/or clinical follow-up.

Results:

A total of 521 EUS-FNAs were performed with a malignancy rate of 81.76%. In both classification systems, the absolute ROM of “non-diagnostic,” “negative for malignancy,” “atypical,” “suspicious for malignancy,” and “malignant” categories were 48.2%, 2.3%, 78.1%, 100.0%, and 99.4%, respectively. Despite the heterogeneous nature of the “neoplastic: other” category of the PSC system, the absolute ROM for solid lesions was 100%. Pancreatic neoplasm: high-risk/grade category including only two endosonographically solid cases of high-grade intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms showed 100% ROM. There were no differences between PSC and WHO systems in sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values: excluding the “atypical” category, these were 99.7%, 95.6%, 97.7%, and 99.5%, respectively. The “atypical” category considered benign resulted in a higher decrease in validity and negative predictive value, compared to “atypical” considered true malignant (93.6% vs 97.7% and 65.8% vs 97.7%).

Conclusion:

For solid pancreatic lesions, the WHO system was identical to the PSC system in terms of ROM and predictive values.
Prognostic impact of IL7R mutations on acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Tao Qiqi , Wu Qiaoyuan , Xue Yutong , Chen Changkun , Zhou Ya , Shao Ruoyang , Zhang Haiyan , Liu Hui , Zeng Xiangzong , Zhou Lingling , Liu Qifa , Jin Hua
Published: September 2024

Background:

Interleukin-7 receptor ( IL7R) mutation has been demonstrated to be an adverse prognostic factor in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients. However, the effects of the IL7R mutation on acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have rarely been reported. Here, we investigated IL7R mutations and their effects on AML patients.

Methods:

A total of 346 newly diagnosed AML patients from January 2017 to July 2020 at Nanfang Hospital were analyzed in this study. A genomic panel of 167 gene targets was detected by next-generation sequencing.

Results:

Among 346 patients, 33 (9.5%) AML patients carried IL7R mutations. With a median follow-up of 50.7 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 17.3–62.2), the 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 51.5% (95% CI 37.0%–71.0%) and 72.2% (95% CI 67.4%–77.3%; p = 0.008), the 5-year event-free survival (EFS) rates were 36.1% (95% CI 23.2%–57.1%) and 58.1% (95% CI 52.9%–63.8%; p = 0.005), the 5-year non-relapse mortality (NRM) were 21.4% (95% CI 8.5%–38.2%) and 6.2% (95% CI 3.7%–9.5%; p = 0.004) in the IL7R mutant ( IL7R MUT) group and non-IL7R mutant ( IL7R WT) group, respectively. There is no significant difference in the disease-free survival (75.1% vs 73.5%, p = 0.885) and cumulative incidence of relapse (25.7% vs 25.2%, p = 0.933) between IL7R MUT and IL7R WT group. Furthermore, patients who underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) still had more adverse outcomes in the IL7R MUT group than in the IL7R WT group (5-year OS: 61.9% vs 85.3%, p = 0.003). In the TET2 ( p = 0.013) and DNA methyltransferase 3A ( DNMT3A; p = 0.046) mutation subgroups, the presence of IL7R mutations was associated with worse OS than in AML patients without IL7R mutations.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated that the IL7R mutation is associated with an inferior prognosis for AML patients. Patients with IL7R mutations have higher NRM, shorter OS, and EFS than patients without IL7R mutations, even patients who have undergone HSCT. Future larger and multicentric prospective studies will be explored.
Differences in emotional reactions following ostracism: A comparison between youth with and without personality pathology
Authors: van den Hanenberg Danique A. M. , Schuiringa Hilde D. , Laceulle Odilia M. , Lucassen Inge G. M. , Scholte Ron H. J. , van der Heijden Paul T.
Published: September 2024

Background: The sense of belonging is a fundamental human need and is important for establishing social relationships ( Baumeister & Leary, 1995 ). In certain social situations, the need to belong can be threatened by others, a phenomenon known as ostracism. Individuals react differently to these threatening situations. However, not much is known about the differences between youth with and without personality pathology in emotional reactions to ostracism. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the differences in emotional reaction between these two groups. Method: Negative emotional reactions of youth (16–23 years old) diagnosed with personality pathology ( n = 34) were compared with youth from a community sample ( n = 44). The online game Cyberball was used as a measure for ostracism. A Repeated Measures Mixed-model ANOVA was performed to determine differences in negative affect (NA) between the groups at three measurement points. Results: Youth with personality pathology showed higher levels of NA at baseline than youth from the community sample. Although ostracism was conducted successfully, NA scores did not increase directly after playing Cyberball in both groups. Conclusions: Youth with personality pathology experience significantly more NA already at baseline, whereas they did not demonstrate stronger negative emotional reactions when confronted with ostracism than youth from a community sample.
Can local food become an inclusive practice in urban areas? A community provisioning systems approach
Authors: Mourre Marie-Laure , Gonzalez Christine , Djedidi Amina
Published: September 2024

In the context of crises such as the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, local food systems have emerged as a potential solution to the challenges of food sovereignty and sustainability. However, the adoption of local food as a widespread practice remains limited. The aim of this research is to identify the drivers that could lead to the widespread adoption of local food systems as an inclusive practice in urban areas. We adopt a systemic approach to analyze the dynamics of supply systems and communities in a city within the Paris region, combining geographic, ethnographic, and documentary data. Our findings reveal a tentative practice and a gap between the supply and the population’s usage patterns. Our research highlights how food behaviors are embedded within interacting systems. It calls on public authorities to make local food systems a significant focus for large-scale distribution and urges the economic sphere to rethink its business models and value chains.