bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of fezolinetant for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause among women in East Asia: a phase 3 randomized study (MOONLIGHT I)
Authors: Ruan Xiangyan , Bai Wenpei , Ren Mulan , Kim Tak , Lee Ji Young , Chuang Fei-Chi , Wang Peng-Hui , He Weizhong , Ma Xiao , Miyazaki Kentaro , Song Nan , Wang Xuegong , Yu Qi
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of fezolinetant for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause in East Asian women.

Methods

In this phase 3, randomized, double-blind study, postmenopausal women with moderate to severe VMS (minimum average frequency in the 10 days before randomization, ≥7/day or 50/week) received fezolinetant 30 mg/day or placebo (weeks 1–12), followed by an open-label extension phase with fezolinetant 30 mg/day (weeks 13–24). The co-primary endpoints were the mean changes in the daily frequency and severity of VMS at weeks 4 and 12.

Results

Among 301 participants, the difference in the least squares mean change (95% confidence interval) from baseline in the daily frequency of moderate to severe VMS versus placebo was −0.65 (−1.41 to 0.12) at week 4 and −0.55 (−1.35 to 0.26) at week 12. The differences in the least squares mean change from baseline in the VMS severity score versus placebo were −0.06 (−0.14 to 0.03) and −0.13 (−0.27 to 0.01) at weeks 4 and 12, respectively. Serious adverse events occurred in 0.7% of participants receiving fezolinetant in weeks 1 to 12, compared with 1.3% of those receiving placebo.

Conclusions

Fezolinetant was generally safe but did not reduce the frequency or severity of VMS versus placebo in postmenopausal women in this study. ClinicalTrials.Gov Identifier: NCT04234204
Integrating Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking in Educational Contexts: A Systematic Review of Instructional Design and Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Weng Xiaojing , Ye Huiyan , Dai Yun , Ng Oi-lam
Published: May 2024

A growing body of research is focusing on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and computational thinking (CT) to enhance student learning outcomes. Many researchers have designed instructional activities to achieve various learning goals within this field. Despite the prevalence of studies focusing on instructional design and student learning outcomes, how instructional efforts result in the integration of AI and CT in students’ learning processes remains unclear. To address this research gap, we conducted a systematic literature review of empirical studies that have integrated AI and CT for student development. We collected 18 papers from four prominent research databases in the fields of education and AI technology: Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE, and ACM. We coded the collected studies, highlighting the students’ learning processes in terms of research methodology and context, learning tools and instructional design, student learning outcomes, and the interaction between AI and CT. The integration of AI and CT occurs in two ways: the integration of disciplinary knowledge and leveraging AI tools to learn CT. Specifically, we discovered that AI- and CT-related tools, projects, and problems facilitated student-centered instructional designs, resulting in productive AI and CT learning outcomes.
Chemical leukoderma: An insight of pathophysiology and contributing factors
Authors: Jangra Soniya , Gulia Heena , Singh Jagphool , Dang Amita S , Giri Shiv K , Singh Gulab , Priya Kanu , Kumar Anil
Published: May 2024

Chemical leukoderma, or chemical-based vitiligo, is a dermal disease triggered by exposure to chemicals and characterized by the emergence of depigmentation or hypopigmentation of the skin. The etiology of this condition is associated with exposure to various chemical substances present in both occupational and non-occupational settings. The precise mechanism that underlies chemical leukoderma remains elusive and is believed to result from the demise of melanocytes, which are responsible for producing skin pigments. This condition has gained particular prominence in developing countries like India. An interesting connection between chemical leukoderma and vitiligo has been identified; studies suggest that exposure to many household chemicals, which are derivatives of phenols and catechol, may serve as a primary etiological factor for the condition. Similar to autoimmune diseases, its pathogenesis involves contributions from both genetic and environmental factors. Furthermore, over the last few decades, various studies have demonstrated that exposure to chemicals plays a crucial role in initiating and progressing chemical leukoderma, including cases stemming from occupational exposure.
Sepsis as a Potential Risk Factor for Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Yao Yanfen , Ba Tejin , Bao Bagenna , Zhang Shuanglin , Kong Li
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Sepsis is a common and critical condition in intensive care units (ICUs) known to complicate patient outcomes. Previous studies have indicated an association between sepsis and various ICU morbidities, including upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). However, the extent of this relationship and its implications in ICU settings remain inadequately quantified. This study aims to elucidate the association between sepsis and the risk of UGIB in ICU patients. Methods: A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted, encompassing nine studies with a total of nearly 9000 participants. These studies reported events for both sepsis and nonsepsis patients separately. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to assess the risk of UGIB in septic versus nonseptic ICU patients. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on age and study design, and both unadjusted and adjusted ORs were examined. Results: The pooled OR indicated a significant association between sepsis and UGIB (OR = 3.276, 95% CI: 1.931 to 5.557). Moderate heterogeneity was observed (I² = 43.9%). The association was significant in adults (pooled OR = 4.083) but not in children. No difference in association was found based on the study design. Unadjusted and adjusted ORs differed slightly, indicating the influence of confounding factors. Conclusion: This meta-analysis reveals a significant association between sepsis and an increased risk of UGIB in ICU patients, particularly in adults. These findings highlight the need for vigilant monitoring and proactive management of septic ICU patients to mitigate the risk of UGIB. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing tailored preventive strategies.
Surface morphology, burr formation, and spindle axial drift in high-speed robotic milling of complex features
Authors: Wen Zilei , Wang Guanbo , Li Maojun
Published: May 2024

Industrial robots are garnering increased attention in the manufacturing sector, their application in high-precision tasks such as milling is however hindered by inherent limitations, notably low stiffness and instability. This study aims to investigate the influence of cutting parameters within segmented curve trajectories on surface quality during high-speed robotic milling process. The investigation covers surface morphology, the mechanism of burr formation, and the underlying causes of tool axial runout. The findings reveal that as spindle speed increases and feed speed decreases, the surface topography of the machined workpiece gradually improves and the quantity and dimensions of burrs on both sides of the slot have been decreased. Axial runout occurs during robotic milling due to insufficient robot stiffness, leading to vibrations that cannot effectively resist the reaction forces of cutting forces.
Ride comfort analysis and optimization of a hydro-pneumatic suspension system for a mining dump truck
Authors: Liu Qihang , Liu Xiumei , Feng Handui , Li Beibei , Liu Shen , Luo Yunlong , Sha Taiyang
Published: May 2024

Mining dump truck is an important carrier used for short-distance round-trip transportation of ore and other materials in open-pit mines. This paper takes XDR80t mining dump truck produced by XCMG as the research object. The integrated virtual prototype model of hydro-pneumatic suspension mechanical and hydraulic systems is established by ADAMS and AMESim. The co-simulation environment is carried out to realize the virtual prototype modeling and simulation. Using the wheel and chassis centroid acceleration data collected at the site, a method based on frequency domain integration is proposed to calculate the displacement data which is used as the model input. Comparing the simulation test results with the field test results, both the errors of the suspension cylinder dynamic stroke and the body vertical acceleration root mean square (RMS) values are around 5%. The dynamic response of the vehicle body under typical road excitation at different vehicle speeds is analyzed by co-simulation. For low-speed obstacle crossings at 10 or 20 km/h, the original suspension system with only non-rod chamber interconnections system is able to ensure the ride comfort of the vehicle. While the speed is increased to 25 or 30 km/h, there will be a certain failure of the interconnecting suspension because of the poor fluid circulation condition, and the body vibration will be seriously aggravated. Therefore, the rod chamber of the cylinder is connected to guarantee the smooth flow of oil. The peak value of acceleration is reduced from 39.55 to 24.74 m/s2 at high speed, when the suspension was changed from a form with only non-rod chambers interconnected to both rod and non-rod chambers interconnected. When driving on random road, the RMS value of acceleration decreased by about 21.9%. This improved interconnected hydraulic system can effectively improve the ride comfort of the mining dump truck.
Synthesis, and antimicrobial activity of polyazomethine-pyrazole/multi-walled carbon nanotubes nanocomposite materials
Authors: Hakami Aqilah A. , Alorfi Hajar S. , Farghaly Thoraya A. , Hussein Mahmoud A.
Published: May 2024

A novel series of bioactive polymer nanocomposites was recently created using the polycondensation method in conjunction with ultrasonic radiation. These nanocomposites comprise multi-wall carbon nanotubes and polyazomethine, which is based on the pyrazole moiety with various derivatives. The polyazomethine polymer was supplemented with a 2% concentration of multi-wall carbon nanotubes. The produced polymer nanocomposites were identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and characterized by common characterization tools including X-ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy, and Transmission electron microscopy. The thermal stability was measured by thermogravimetric analysis and differential thermal gravimetry. The results of the X-ray diffraction patterns indicate that the multi-wall carbon nanotubes are really in the polymer matrix. The thermal analysis of these polymer nanocomposites shows high thermal stability. The agar diffusion technique was used to assess the antibacterial properties of the freshly synthesized polymer nanocomposites against various bacterial and fungal species. The chosen bacteria and fungi were susceptible to varying degrees of antimicrobial and antifungal activity in the polymer nanocomposites that were evaluated. Moreover, the antibacterial properties of the fabricated Polymer nanocomposites were assessed through colony forming units against Escherichia coli bacteria and showed good effectiveness of all tested polymer nanocomposites. All samples showed an effect on bacterial growth after 12 h by 22%–35%. After 24 h, the percent inhibition of E. coli in the presence of the prepared polymer nanocomposites was highest; it showed 45%–60%.
Comorbidity of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Psychosis in Children: Diagnostic and Management Considerations: A Case Report
Authors: Dutta Anirban , Manohar Harshini
Published: May 2024

The association of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with psychosis has important diagnostic and treatment implications. We present a case of a 13-year-old girl with illness duration of 3 months characterized by decreased social interaction, anger outbursts, decreased self-care, and separation anxiety with fearfulness and self-muttering behavior on serial observations pointing towards a possible psychotic disorder, which improved with risperidone 6 mg. Persistence of separation anxiety with possibility of trauma sequalae leads to diagnosis of PTSD. Attempt to taper antipsychotic resulted in the resurfacing of psychotic symptoms. She attained stable improvement with a combination of sertraline 150 mg and aripiprazole 20 mg.
Psychotherapy with Latino Children: Some Issues and Concerns
Authors: Pino Jorge A. Herrera , Araujo César E. Castellanos , Velázquez Norman D. López
Published: May 2024

Latinos constitute the largest minority in the United States. While the term could refer to all individuals born or whose families come from countries in which languages derived from Latin are predominant, the term has come to primarily refer to those who were born or come from families born in countries in the Western Hemisphere where Spanish is the predominant language. Latinos face discrimination in the health-care system of the United States, even if born in this country, which is negatively affecting the mental health of both adults and children. There is an ever-increasing influx of families and children in the United States coming from countries in Latin America where they have experienced various forms of violence as well as violations of human rights and have arrived an undocumented status. As a result, many Latino families fear the potential detainment and deportation of family members, including the parents of children born in the United States, creating a source of anxiety and stress for the children. In addition to this, the process of forcibly having to abandon their country of origin within the context of what has been referred to as force migration is, in and of itself, a potentially traumatic event. Providers of psychotherapy for Latino children need to become more aware of these circumstances and take them into account during the treatment of these children in order to be more effective in their interventions.
Taming Muslim Masculinity: Patriarchy and Christianity in German Immigrant Integration
Authors: Lypp Jacob , Özyürek Esra
Published: May 2024

This article analyzes a growing sector of state-funded pedagogies designed to reform Muslim masculinity in Germany. These programs present Muslim men as suffering from a psychopathology rooted in an alleged Islamic “honor culture”. They rely on a mix of Christian and non-religious welfare providers to supply Muslim youth with alternative masculine role models. We trace three implications of this arrangement: First, these programs' culturalist approach perpetuates Orientalist hierarchizations of masculinity. Second, the de-Islamized masculinity these programs construct as normatively binding revolves around a heteronormative patriarchy imagined as benevolent, thereby reinforcing the subjection of women. Third, these educational initiatives yoke the reform of Muslim masculinity to male participants' dramatic conversion to a Christian-German culture that blurs the line between the religious and the nonreligious. We suggest that studies of (hegemonic) masculinity in Europe ought to attend to the salience of the nation-state and to the public relevance of Christianity—two dimensions given short shrift in recent theorizing.
Fabrication and buckling resistance behaviors of curved-wall CFRP honeycomb sandwich structure under out-of-plane compression
Authors: Wang Yan , Wei Xingyu , Li Zhibin , Tang Xiaohan , Xiong Jian
Published: May 2024

This research aims to improve the performance of low-density carbon fiber composite honeycomb structures by optimizing their geometric design. To improve buckling resistance, a curved-wall carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) honeycomb is designed by substituting the curved walls with circular cross sections for the straight edges of traditional hexagonal honeycomb. The honeycomb was fabricated using the modified tailor-folding method. The deformation and failure modes of curved-wall CFRP honeycomb were investigated by analytical model, experiments and finite element analysis (FEA). The analytical model demonstrated a satisfactory correlation with the experimental results and simulations. The specific strength was employed to investigate the load-weight efficiency of curved-wall CFRP honeycomb under different geometric parameters, aiming to identify the most optimal lightweight structure configuration. The results revealed that the central angle of the circular arc significantly influenced the buckling resistance of honeycomb, and an optimal combination of geometric parameters with specific strength was obtained. This study can serve as a guide for designing and optimizing lightweight structures.
Reference-free absolute strain estimation using longitudinal waves and relative strain measurements
Authors: Kwon Ohjun , Sohn Hoon , Lim Hyung Jin
Published: May 2024

The absolute strain, which is the total strain experienced by a structure when the loading increases from zero to the current loading level, is an important physical quantity for evaluating the integrity of a structural component. To measure the absolute strain, a strain sensor, such as a strain gauge or fiber Bragg grating, must be installed at a target structure when no loading or strain is present. Subsequently, loading is applied, and the absolute strain can be measured from the variation in the strain sensor reading. However, measuring absolute strain is difficult because the strain sensors are not installed on most in-service structures before any loading is applied or any strain occurs. In this study, a reference-free absolute strain estimation technique is developed based on the acoustoelastic effect of longitudinal waves. First, the relationship between the absolute strain and longitudinal wave velocity is explicitly derived. Subsequently, the absolute strain is estimated based on the linear relationship between the absolute strain and the velocity ratio of the longitudinal wave propagating in the loading direction to that propagating in the transverse direction. The uniqueness of the developed technique includes (1) a theoretical derivation of the linear relationship between the absolute strain and the velocity ratio of longitudinal waves propagating in parallel and perpendicular directions of uniaxial loading, (2) absolute strain estimation without any prior sensor installation or any absolute strain measurement at a known loading level, and (3) automated temperature compensation for in-service structures without any temperature measurement. The performance of the developed technique is experimentally evaluated using an aluminum plate and steel rod specimens. The evaluation results show that the developed technique estimates absolute strain within an 8.8% maximum relative error and a 6.1% normalized root-mean-square error.
A Rapid Review on Complaint Mechanisms for Interpersonal Violence: Integrating Research-Based Recommendations from Multiple Sectors to Inform Sport Settings
Authors: Radziszewski Stephanie , Parent Sylvie , St-Pierre Elisabeth , Daignault Isabelle V. , Hébert Martine , Baril Karine
Published: May 2024

Past studies have highlighted the lack of independent formal complaint mechanisms as one of the most significant barriers to reporting interpersonal violence (IV) in sport. Some countries have since implemented complaint mechanisms specific to sport settings. Evaluations of similar mechanisms in other sectors could inform the development and implementation of complaint mechanisms for IV in sport. This rapid review included studies inside and outside the sport context to document the characteristics of complaint mechanisms of IV, barriers or limitations related to such mechanisms, and recommendations resulting from their evaluation. Following the Cochrane Rapid Reviews Interim Guidance, six databases were searched for peer-reviewed references in English or French, published between 2012 and 2022, and pertaining to the evaluation of formal reporting mechanisms of IV. The 35 references covered mechanisms mainly targeting IV in general (any type) or sexual violence specifically. Complaint mechanisms varied in scope and as a function of their setting, including work, university, military, and medical. We identified barriers and limitations concerning fear of consequences, lack of knowledge, lack of efficiency, lack of trust, and unsupportive culture. Finally, we documented 18 recommendations to improve complaint mechanisms of IV, spanning four categories: (a) organizational accountability, (b) awareness and accessibility, (c) adapted process, and (d) ongoing evaluation. This rapid review draws recommendations from various research disciplines and types of mechanisms to offer a comprehensive portrait of best practices. The findings show that numerous aspects of complaint mechanisms at multiple levels should be considered when developing and implementing complaint mechanisms of IV.
Child Sexual Abuse in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ifayomi Moninuola , Ali Parveen , Ellis Katie
Published: May 2024

Child sexual abuse (CSA) is a major social and public health issue that creates short- and long-lasting impacts on victims, families, and society. While global researchers have considered the topic of CSA since the 19th century, the Nigerian context has been largely ignored. Yet, without sufficient evidence and understanding, making changes to practices and policies becomes almost impossible. The review aimed to gain insights into the nature and extent of CSA and identify areas for improvement in practice and research in Nigeria. This article presents the findings of a systematic review of 31 empirical articles related to CSA in Nigeria. Using key search terms along Boolean operators and truncation, PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, ASSIA, PILOTS, African Journals Online, and Google Scholar were searched. A total of 1,325 studies were found, and 31 empirical studies, including 20 quantitative, 9 qualitative, and 2 mixed methods studies, were included. The review findings reveal the discourse on CSA and delve into various aspects such as its prevalence, manifestation patterns, root causes, management, and consequential impact on victims and societal domains. The gaps in the existing literature are identified and explored to identify areas for improvement in victim services, societal awareness, and healthcare practices and relevant policies. The sociocultural norms not only heightened children’s vulnerability to sexual abuse but also posed significant barriers to them disclosing such abuse. Survivors of CSA often receive inadequate care, indicating a pressing need for improvements in this area. Implications for research, policy, and conclusion were discussed.
Task-Oriented Training by a Personalized Electromyography-Driven Soft Robotic Hand in Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shi Xiang-Qian , Ti Chun-Hang Eden , Lu Hsuan-Yu , Hu Cheng-Peng , Xie Di-Sheng , Yuan Kai , Heung Ho-Lam , Leung Thomas Wai-Hong , Li Zheng , Tong Raymond Kai-Yu
Published: May 2024

Background

Intensive task-oriented training has shown promise in enhancing distal motor function among patients with chronic stroke. A personalized electromyography (EMG)-driven soft robotic hand was developed to assist task-oriented object-manipulation training effectively. Objective. To compare the effectiveness of task-oriented training using the EMG-driven soft robotic hand.

Methods

A single-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 34 chronic stroke survivors. The subjects were randomly assigned to the Hand Task (HT) group (n = 17) or the control (CON) group (n = 17). The HT group received 45 minutes of task-oriented training by manipulating small objects with the robotic hand for 20 sessions, while the CON group received 45 minutes of hand-functional exercises without objects using the same robot. Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA-UE), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Modified Ashworth Score (MAS), Box and Block test (BBT), Maximum Grip Strength, and active range of motion (AROM) of fingers were assessed at baseline, after intervention, and 3 months follow-up. The muscle co-contraction index (CI) was analyzed to evaluate the session-by-session variation of upper limb EMG patterns.

Results

The HT group showed more significant improvement in FMA-UE (wrist/hand, shoulder/elbow) compared to the CON group ( P < .05). At 3-month follow-up, the HT group demonstrated significant improvements in FMA-UE, ARAT, BBT, MAS (finger), and AROMs ( P < .05). The HT group exhibited a more significant decrease in muscle co-contractions compared to the CON group ( P < .05).

Conclusions

EMG-driven task-oriented training with the personalized soft robotic hand was a practical approach to improving motor function and muscle coordination.

Clinical Trial Registry Name:

Soft Robotic Hand System for Stroke Rehabilitation.

Clinical Trial Registration-URL:

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ .

Unique Identifier:

NCT03286309.
Simulation analysis of multi-ring interference assembly of large capacity composite flywheel rotor
Authors: Qu Wenhao , Wang Zezheng , Song Shunyi , Teng Wei , Liu Yibing
Published: May 2024

The large-capacity power flywheel energy storage system serves as a high-quality frequency modulation resource for the power system. Utilizing high-strength, low-density composite materials in the manufacture of flywheel rotors is a primary method for enhancing flywheel energy storage. In this paper, we focus on the large-size multi-ring composite flywheel rotor. Based on the elastic theory, the stress distribution formula of the anisotropic material rotor rim under high-speed rotation is derived. Based on the stress superposition principle, the stress analysis formula under the interference fit of the composite rim and the metal hub is obtained, and the analytical solution is given. Based on the radial displacement of each ring, a suitable amount of interference is determined. Subsequently, a finite element analysis model for the interference fit between the composite rim and the metal hub is established. The stress distribution of the rotor is simulated and analyzed. The simulation results are basically consistent with the analytical results, which verifies the rationality of the model. Finally, we analyze and compare the difference between multi-ring isomorphism and multi-ring isomerism, and then the applicability of the analytical solution and simulation solution to the stress distribution of three-ring and four-ring composite flywheel rotor is further verified. The results demonstrate that, for large-size composite flywheels, existing formula analysis calculations and finite element simulation calculations align, highlighting a need for experimental verification in future research.
Multiply robust estimation of principal causal effects with noncompliance and survival outcomes
Authors: Cheng Chao , Guo Yueqi , Liu Bo , Wruck Lisa , Li Fan , Li Fan
Published: May 2024

Treatment noncompliance and censoring are two common complications in clinical trials. Motivated by the ADAPTABLE pragmatic clinical trial, we develop methods for assessing treatment effects in the presence of treatment noncompliance with a right-censored survival outcome. We classify the participants into principal strata, defined by their joint potential compliance status under treatment and control. We propose a multiply robust estimator for the causal effects on the survival probability scale within each principal stratum. This estimator is consistent even if one, sometimes two, of the four working models—on the treatment assignment, the principal strata, censoring, and the outcome—is misspecified. A sensitivity analysis strategy is developed to address violations of key identification assumptions, the principal ignorability and monotonicity. We apply the proposed approach to the ADAPTABLE trial to study the causal effect of taking low- versus high-dosage aspirin on all-cause mortality and hospitalization from cardiovascular diseases.
Increased complications and similar patient recorded outcomes after shoulder arthroplasty in patients with functional somatic syndromes
Authors: Gaudiani Michael A , Wager Susan G , Enweze Lawrence C , Gasparro Matthew A , Brown Spencer R , Al-Saghir Tala , Keith Katherine M , Kasto Johnny K , Muh Stephanie J , Mahylis Jared M
Published: May 2024

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare patient-reported outcomes measures, complication rates, and return to hospital in a cohort of patients undergoing anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (aTSA) or reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (rTSA) with at least one functional somatic syndrome (FSS) to a control cohort.

Methods

A retrospective review identifying patients who underwent rTSA or aTSA from 2015 to 2022 was performed. Patients with one or more FSS diagnosis (irritable bowel syndrome, chronic headache, chronic low back pain, or fibromyalgia) were compared against a control cohort. Demographic data, comorbidities, operative data, and patient recorded outcomes including Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Upper Extremity (UE), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression (D) were collected. A 1:1 propensity matching to control for age, gender, and body mass index was performed.

Results

A total of 54 patients in the FSS cohort and 125 control patients without FSS were included. The FSS cohort had significantly higher rates of depression ( p < 0.001), anxiety ( p < 0.001), and postoperative complications (35.2% vs. 14.4%, p = 0.002). No significant differences in change in PROMIS-UE, -PI, and -D scores or proportion meeting minimal clinically important difference were seen at one year among the propensity-matched cohort.

Discussion

Patients with FSS undergoing shoulder arthroplasty had higher rates of complications; however, PROMIS scores were similar between cohorts.

Level of Evidence

Level III
The cardiovascular safety of tricyclic antidepressants in overdose and in clinical use
Authors: Taylor David , Poulou Sofia , Clark Ivana
Published: May 2024

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) remain widely prescribed for depression and many other conditions. There may be important differences between individual TCA in regard to their overdose toxicity and their cardiac toxicity in clinical use. We conducted a systematic review to compare the toxicity of individual TCA in overdose and the risk of serious adverse cardiac events occurring with therapeutic doses. We used the fatal toxicity index (FTI) and case fatality ratio as markers of fatality in overdose, and hazard ratios or odds ratios for the risk of cardiovascular adverse events during normal clinical use. In all, 30 reports of mortality in overdose and 14 observational studies assessing the risk of cardiovascular adverse events in clinical use were included. FTI values were of the same order of magnitude (101–102) for all TCAs except lofepramine. Desipramine appears to be somewhat more likely than other TCAs to lead to death in overdose. Amitriptyline, clomipramine, dothiepin/dosulepin, doxepin, trimipramine and imipramine showed broadly similar toxicity and were usually reported to be less toxic than desipramine. Data on nortriptyline were contradictory. Lofepramine had the lowest risk of death in overdose. The rank order of overdose toxicity was broadly consistent between different FTI definitions and between markers used. With respect to the risk of cardiovascular events at clinically relevant exposure, amitriptyline, nortriptyline and lofepramine were associated with a greater risk of in-use cardiotoxicity. All measures of overdose toxicity were subject to external influences and confounding. The continued use of TCAs in depression and other conditions should be minimized when considering their undoubted toxicity in overdose and possible toxicity in normal clinical use.
Prevalence of syphilis among people living with HIV who attend a large urban antiretroviral therapy clinic in Panama: a cross-sectional epidemiological study
Authors: Gabster Amanda , Díaz Fernández Félix , Zaldívar Yamitzel , Hernández Michelle , Pascale Juan Miguel , Orillac Angelique , Moreno-Wynter Samuel , Xavier Hall Casey D. , Jhangimal Mónica , Yu-Pon Anyi , Rodríguez-Vargas Cristel , Arjona-Miranda Diogenes , Fuentes Bárbara , Henestroza Germán , Araúz Ana Belén
Published: May 2024

Background:

Syphilis is a serious global public health challenge. Despite prior progress in syphilis control, incidence has been increasing in recent years. Syphilis is a common coinfection among people living with HIV (PLHIV). In Panama, few data describe syphilis prevalence among PLHIV. We describe syphilis antibody and high-titer (⩾1:8) active syphilis prevalence and associated factors among individuals who attended an antiretroviral clinic.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was undertaken during February–March 2022 and September–October 2022 for adults (⩾18 year) assigned male and female at birth, respectively. Participants provided peripheral blood samples and self-administered a questionnaire. Samples were screened using immunochromatography; antibody-positive samples were tested using rapid plasma regain to 1:512 dilutions. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with syphilis antibody and high-titer active syphilis.

Results:

In all, 378 participants gave blood samples; 377 individuals participated in the questionnaire (216 self-reported male sex [males], 158 female [females], and three intersex individuals). Median age was 36 years (interquartile range: 28–45 years). Overall, syphilis antibody prevalence was 32.3% (122/378) (males, 50.7% [108/2013]; females, 5.7% [9/158]; intersex individuals, 100.0% (3/3)], p < 0.01. High-titer active syphilis was found among 24.6% ( n = 30) of samples with positive antibody test (males 27.8% [ n = 30], females 0.0% [0/9], intersex individuals 0.0% [0/3]). Antibody positivity was associated in the multivariable model with males (50.7%, AOR = 24.6, 95%CI: 1.57–384.53). High-titer active syphilis was associated with younger participant age (18–30 years, 13.2%, OR = 4.82, 95%CI: 1.17–19.83); 31–40 years, 7.8%, OR = 4.24, 95%CI: 1.04–17.21 versus 3.2% >40 years), homosexual identity (16.0% OR = 34.2, 95%CI: 4.50–259.27 versus 0.6% among heterosexual identity); in the multivariable model, associated with sexual identity (bisexual 19.1%, AOR = 10.89, 95%CI: 1.00–119.06) compared to heterosexual identity (0.6%) and weakly associated with concurrency (⩾1 ongoing sexual relationships, 15.9%, AOR = 3.09, 95%CI: 0.94–10.14).

Conclusion:

This study found very high prevalence of syphilis antibodies and high-titer syphilis among PLHIV in Panama. Those most affected are males, younger in age, those who practice concurrent sexual relationships, and those who reported homosexual and bisexual identity. Targeted interventions should include repetitive testing and treatment, especially among individuals who may be at increased infection risk.
Burnout and Physical Activity as Predictors of Job Satisfaction Among Peruvian Nurses: The Job Demands-Resources Theory
Authors: Romero-Carazas Rafael , Almanza-Cabe Robinson Bernardino , Valero-Ancco Vidnay Noel , Espíritu-Martínez Antony Paul , Espinoza-Casco Roque Juan , Garro-Aburto Luzmila Lourdes , Vizcarra-Quiñones Alberto Miguel , Samaniego-Montoya Celfa Mónica , Denegri-Velarde María Isabel , Ochoa-Tataje Freddy Antonio
Published: May 2024

Background:

The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory suggests that an imbalance between job demands and available resources can lead to burnout, negatively affecting job satisfaction. Physical activity is recognized for its positive effects on psychological well-being and could play a crucial role in mitigating burnout and improving job satisfaction, especially in high-demand professions such as nursing.

Objective:

This study investigates the relationship between burnout, physical activity, and job satisfaction in Peruvian nurses, using the JD-R theory as a theoretical framework.

Methods:

A cross-sectional and explanatory analysis was conducted on a sample of 420 Peruvian nurses, using a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) design to analyze the relationships between burnout, physical activity, and job satisfaction. The instruments included the Ultra-Short Burnout Measure (IUB), the General Job Satisfaction Scale NTP 394, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ).

Results:

The findings showed a significant negative correlation between burnout and physical activity (β = −.40, P < .001) and between burnout and job satisfaction (β = −.46, P < .001). Physical activity exhibited a significant positive correlation with job satisfaction (β = .22, P < .001). Moreover, mediation analysis confirmed that physical activity mediates the relationship between burnout and job satisfaction (β = −.106, P < .001).

Conclusions:

The findings emphasize the importance of physical activity as a mediator in the relationship between burnout and job satisfaction among Peruvian nurses, highlighting the need to promote physical activity as a strategy to improve workplace well-being. It is suggested that enhancing access to and promotion of physical activity could mitigate the effects of burnout and improve job satisfaction, which is essential for the quality of care and the well-being of nursing staff. These findings underscore the need for organizational and public health strategies that promote a healthy work environment and balance between the demands and resources available.
Longitudinal Progression of Patients with Long COVID Treated in a Post-COVID Clinic: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Hurt Ryan T. , Yadav Siddhant , Schroeder Darrell R. , Croghan Ivana T. , Mueller Michael R. , Grach Stephanie L. , Aakre Christopher A. , Gilman Elizabeth A. , Stephenson Christopher R. , Overgaard Joshua , Collins Nerissa M. , Lawson Donna K. , Thompson Ann M. , Natividad Lasonya T. , Mohamed Elfadil Osman , Ganesh Ravindra
Published: May 2024

Background:

In addition to the morbidity and mortality associated with acute infection, COVID-19 has been associated with persistent symptoms (>30 days), often referred to as Long COVID (LC). LC symptoms often cluster into phenotypes, resembling conditions such as fibromyalgia, postural orthostatic tachycardiac syndrome (POTS), and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). LC clinics have been established to best address the needs of LC patients and continuity of care. We developed a cross-sectional survey to assess treatment response through our LC Clinic (LCC).

Methods:

A 25-question survey (1-10 Likert scale) was expert- and content-validated by LCC clinicians, patients, and patient advocates. The survey assessed LC symptoms and the helpfulness of different interventions, including medications and supplements. A total of 852 LCC patients were asked to complete the survey, with 536 (62.9%) responding.

Results:

The mean time from associated COVID-19 infection to survey completion was 23.2 ± 6.4 months. The mean age of responders was 52.3 ± 14.1 (63% females). Self-reported symptoms were all significantly improved ( P < .001) from the initial visit to the LCC (baseline) to the time of the follow-up survey. However, only 4.5% (24/536) of patients rated all symptoms low (1-2) at the time of the survey, indicating low levels of full recovery in our cohort. The patients rated numerous interventions as being helpful, including low-dose naltrexone (45/77; 58%), vagal nerve stimulation (18/34; 53%), and fisetin (28/44; 64%).

Conclusions:

Patients report general improvements in symptoms following the initial LCC visit, but complete recovery rates remain low at 23.2 ± 6.4 months.
Occupation-Related Volunteering: A Qualitative Systematic Literature Review, Conceptualization, and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Biermann Karin Y. , Breitsohl Heiko , Meijs Lucas C. P. M.
Published: May 2024

This review investigates the volunteering-work nexus, where an individual’s paid occupational work in the business, government, or voluntary sector is akin to their volunteer work: tasks and responsibilities are similar, but the structure, conditions, and relationships differ. Performing work spans their business and volunteer worlds and brings dynamic interactions between work and volunteering. Pro bono, skills-based, or corporate volunteering are terms in use; however, these conceptualizations of the underlying and interconnecting practices of work and volunteering are too limited. This transdisciplinary, qualitative systematic literature review of 62 scientific articles studies individuals using conceptualizations of work, volunteering, and occupations over their working life, from service-learning to retirement. With ambiguous boundaries and terminology in the literature, we introduce a new term— occupation-related volunteering—defined as an individual acting to benefit others without payment or coercion, developing, using, or maintaining their occupational knowledge, skills, and abilities, and drawing upon their economic, social, and cultural capital. The definition anticipates that an individual’s occupational resources change over their working life and vary depending on whether the volunteer is acting independently or with the support of their workplace. Occupation-related volunteering extends paid-unpaid and formal-informal boundaries to include volunteering in “paid” work time and in informal, community-based organizations and less public roles, such as mentoring. Finally, we encourage future research using the bibliometric data, suggestions in the reviewed articles, and our synthesis of the individual’s perspective of performing their occupational work as a volunteer.
Understanding the Significance of EFL Students’ Perceptions and Preferences of Written Corrective Feedback
Authors: Rasool Ushba , Qian Jiancheng , Aslam Muhammad Zammad
Published: May 2024

Language instructors worldwide use various types and strategies for providing feedback on the learners’ written production. Written corrective feedback (WCF) plays a vital role in systematically learning second or other languages. Additionally, students’ perception of feedback and its delivery has a specific value. Therefore, the current study examined perceptions and preferences of the WCF of EFL students they received in high school back in their home countries. However, the data was collected when they were studying in China as international students. To achieve these objectives, the researchers utilized a self-administered questionnaire and collected data from 91 international students at Chinese University, China. The results showed that most students supported positive statements (in the first part of the questionnaire) regarding WCF perceptions. The most preferred types were direct and unfocused WCF. Also, in order to establish a statistical basis on whether there are differences among various nationalities in terms of their perception, One-way ANOVA was performed. The findings displayed that all nationalities have difference in positive perceptions, and same tendency toward negative perceptions about WCF and focused feedback. Overall, according to their answers, WCF helps them to know what to avoid and adapt to compose an effective writing piece.
Association Between Board and Organizational Performance Among Nonprofit Foundations in China
Authors: Yuanyuan Zhou , Wenyi Lin
Published: May 2024

On the basis of agency and resource dependence theories, this paper mainly discusses the relationship between the board and financial performance of nonprofit foundations (NPFs) in China. The data used in this study were obtained from the 2017 annual work report of 203 national public and private fundraising NPFs. Conclusions of this empirical research are as follows. Board size is positively correlated with organizational performance. The size of the supervisory board is positively associated with total and donation incomes. In public NPFs, a negative relationship exists between the average age of directors and total and donation incomes. Foundations with fewer government officials among their directors have a higher total income. In public fundraising NPFs, a positive relationship exists between the proportion of paid directors and total and donation incomes, whereas no correlation is observed in private fundraising NPFs. This study has significant implications for understanding the relationship between board composition and organizational performance among NPFs in China. This study focuses on the effective features of boards in NPFs to enhance competitiveness in access to public resources after the enactment of the Charity Law.
How accessible are cities for visually impaired pedestrians? A case of Greater London
Authors: Cohen Achituv , Dalyot Sagi , Natapov Asya , Nelson Trisalyn
Published: May 2024

Urban planning and design aim to encourage active mobility by promoting various models that assess a city’s transportability and accessibility. In practice, these models are not attuned to a huge part of the population that have mobility impairments, therefore they uphold a flawed city design and prevent these populations from being an equal part of the inclusive city vision. We suggest an approach to develop new visually impaired mobility accessibility indices of urban space using open-source geospatial data and showcase them across different wards and boroughs in Greater London. Results show the various urban accessibility levels for visually impaired pedestrians, pointing to existing problems this community faces when navigating the city, such as challenging street network connectivity and dangerous walking areas. These indices can be used for more inclusive city planning and design, enhancing urban mobility and walkability equality, and improving this community’s quality of life.
Stylised facts and close dialogue redux
Authors: Clark Gordon L , Wójcik Dariusz
Published: May 2024

We reprise Clark’s influential 1998 article on ‘stylized facts and close dialogue’ to reflect on the state of both and their status in economic geography 25 years later. While close dialogue has been embraced by economic geographers, the notion of stylised facts has been neglected. In making the case for more explicit consideration of stylised facts, we highlight their importance in the research process as a catalyst for interaction between theory and empirical evidence and as a facilitator of academic communication across disciplines, methods and the public. The importance of stylised facts is illustrated by focusing on global financial networks and the efficient market hypothesis. In a time of uncertainty, locally and globally, there is increasing demand for close dialogue as well as new stylised facts – new ways of conceptualising the economic geography of the 21st century.