bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative efficacy of quetiapine by dose and formulation for psychosis in schizophrenia: A systematic review and dose–response model-based network meta-analysis
Authors: Terao Itsuki , Yokoi Asato , Fukushima Hirotaka
Published: September 2023

Background:

Quetiapine has varied dose ranges and immediate-(QTP-IR) and extended-release (QTP-ER) formulations.

Aims:

We hypothesized that QTP-IR is inferior to QTP-ER at any dose in efficacy for the acute treatment in schizophrenia and tested using a dose–response model-based network meta-analysis (NMA).

Methods:

We searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, CINHAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized placebo-controlled trials comparing QTP-IR and/or QTP-ER for acute psychosis in patients with schizophrenia up to September 21, 2022. A random effect Bayesian dose–response model-based NMA was performed to compare the dose–response relationships between QTP-IR and QTP-ER.

Results:

The relationship between doses and antipsychotic effects was partially bell-shaped for QTP-IR but not for QTP-ER. The respective peak effect dose was 279.7 mg for QTP-IR and 557.2 mg for QTP-ER, with no significant difference in peak effect. QTP-IR ranging from 100 to 300 mg were significantly superior to QTP-ER at the same doses. In addition, QTP-IR ranging from 100 to 400 mg were significantly better than placebo, whereas QTP-ER ranging from 500 to 800 mg were significantly more effective than placebo. Moreover, QTP-IR 600 mg was significantly less effective than QTP-ER at the same dose. Furthermore, QTP-IR 700 mg was significantly superior to placebo, but significantly inferior to QTP-ER 600 mg.

Conclusions:

QTP-IR may reach comparable peak responses and exhibit enhanced antipsychotic effects at lower doses than QTP-ER; the converse may be true at relatively high doses. Collectively, we propose a novel strategy to enhance the efficacy of QTP administration.
Exploring the efficacy and safety of a novel standardized ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract (Witholytin®) in adults experiencing high stress and fatigue in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Smith Stephen J , Lopresti Adrian L , Fairchild Timothy J
Published: September 2023

Background:

Stress is a state of homeostasis in the body being challenged, resulting in a systemic response. It has become more prevalent in recent years and affects mental and physical health.

Aims:

Evaluate the effects of ashwagandha on stress, fatigue, and sex hormones in overweight or mildly obese men and women with self-reported stress and fatigue.

Methods:

Two-arm, parallel-group, 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on overweight or mildly obese men and women aged 40–75 years, supplementing with 200 mg of an ashwagandha root extract (Witholytin®) twice daily.

Results/Outcomes:

Supplementation with ashwagandha was associated with a significant reduction in stress levels based on the Perceived Stress Scale (primary outcome); however, the improvements were not significantly different to the placebo group ( p = 0.867). Based on the Chalder Fatigue Scale, there was a statistically significant reduction in fatigue symptoms in the ashwagandha group compared to the placebo group ( p = 0.016), and participants taking ashwagandha also experienced a significant increase in heart rate variability ( p = 0.003). However, there were no significant between-group differences in other self-report outcome measures. In the men taking ashwagandha, there was a significant increase in the blood concentrations of free testosterone ( p = 0.048) and luteinizing hormone ( p = 0.002) compared to the placebo group.

Conclusions/Interpretation:

The results of this study suggest that in overweight middle-to-older age adults experiencing high stress and fatigue, compared to the placebo, ashwagandha did not have a significantly greater impact on perceived stress levels. However, based on secondary outcome measures, it may have anti-fatigue effects. This may be via its impact on the autonomic nervous system. However, further research is required to expand on these current findings.
Value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complicated with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Jiang Tingting , Wang Qi , Zhang Zhipeng , Qi Jun , Yang Ziyun , Jiang Qinghe , Wei Jing , Cao Dongming , Yuan Lindong
Published: September 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease complicated with pulmonary hypertension (COPD + PH).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 242 COPD patients at our hospital from July 2018 to July 2019. Patients underwent examinations including blood analysis, C-reactive protein, N-terminal brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), pulmonary function, and cardiac color ultrasound.

Results

Patients were divided into the COPD and COPD + PH groups using pulmonary arterial pressure (<50 and ≥50 mmHg, respectively). Compared with the COPD group, the COPD + PH group had greater pulmonary arterial pressure, smoking history, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C-reactive protein, BNP, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Assessment Test score, and right atrium and ventricular diameters, but smaller body mass index, forced vital capacity, lymphocyte count, and left ventricular diameter. BNP and NLR had positive effects on PH; forced vital capacity had a negative impact. Moreover, BNP (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.748, sensitivity = 0.692, specificity = 0.701) and NLR (AUC = 0.679, sensitivity = 0.831, specificity = 0.452) had predictive value for PH, and both were positively correlated with PH.

Conclusions

NLR is associated with COPD + PH, and may be useful for its diagnosis.
Landscape of competition: Education, economisation and young people’s wellbeing
Authors: Pyyry Noora , Sirviö Heikki
Published: September 2023

This paper probes the function of competition in society through an analysis of the affective landscape that competition creates. Our focus is on education and the connected process of subjectification. We argue that the analysis of competition in human geography needs to advance through abstractions of political economy to the entanglements and relations in which competition is internalised through embodied experience. We conceive competition as a process of organising power relations that work through affective subjectivation and knowledge-production. Those processes are efficiently at work in education, and hence, in young people’s everyday lives. It is our suspicion that education is increasingly organised in a way that naturalises competition and marginalises or even closes horizons from other actual and possible modes of social relations and organisational principles. This organising frame links to ideas about learning as an individual endeavour, a linear process that can be pre-planned and measured with representational evidence. To challenge the harmful ethos of personal control and responsibility of young people for their own education and life-paths, we pursue a nonrepresentational analysis of the educational landscape of competition and approach the (learning) human subject as emergent and relationally agentive. Then, also young people’s wellbeing needs to be mirrored against the landscape in which it is continually built. As a case for our argument, we discuss two documents linked to Finnish education: an OECD document on education and national competitiveness, and the newly revised curriculum for upper secondary education.
Parents’ Understanding About Children’s Bullying: Fall ConsumerStyles Survey, United States, 2017, 2018, and 2019
Authors: Mercado Melissa C. , Daniel Laura , Allen Christopher T. , Mercer Kollar Laura M. , Wang Jing , Roby Sarah J.
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore U.S. parents’ and caregivers’ understanding about children’s bullying—what bullying is and how to address it. We analyzed 2017, 2018, and 2019 Fall ConsumerStyles online panel survey data from U.S. parents/caregivers of children ages 10 to 17 years ( N = 1,516), including 20 items representing statements consistent or inconsistent with the bullying prevention evidence and best practices. Percentage of endorsement for each item and a summary measure of understanding about bullying were calculated. The association between low overall understanding about bullying and sociodemographic characteristics was explored. Most parents identified bullying as harmful (77%), repetitive (63%), and involving power imbalance (51%). At least half of parents answered 13 or more items (20 total) consistent with the bullying prevention evidence or best practices. Being male, non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic, having high school or less education, and small household size were associated with higher odds of low overall understanding about bullying. Awareness of parents’ understanding about bullying and how to appropriately address it is vital for bullying prevention. Findings can inform the strategic development of bullying prevention health messages for parents.
Investigating the Impact of Perceived Social Support from Supervisors and Co-workers on Work Engagement Among Nurses in Private Healthcare Sector in Bangladesh: The Mediating Role of Affective Commitment
Authors: Uddin Mahi
Published: September 2023

This study examined the role of workplace social support from supervisors and co-workers on work engagement of nurses in the private healthcare sector in Bangladesh through the mediating role of affective commitment. Data were collected from 271 nurses and analysed through structural equation modelling. The results reported that affective commitment partially mediated the relationship between supervisory support and work engagement, and fully mediated the relationship between co-worker support and work engagement. Healthcare organisations need to make sure that trained supervisors and co-workers are available in the workplace that can increase collaboration and cooperation among nurses. This study, grounded on job demand–resources theory and social exchange theory, contributes to extend the existing service research by studying the mediating mechanism of affective commitment integrating perceived supervisory support and perceived co-worker support to the work engagement of nurses.
Major Determinants of Infant Mortality: District-level Evidence from Annual Health Survey States of India
Authors: Banerjee Subhanil , Koner Souren , Kaur Arshleen , Sharma Charvi
Published: September 2023

The study aims to understand the major determinants of infant mortality in infant mortality-prone annual health survey states of India. The study has considered district level infant mortality rate as a dependent variable and household size, sex ratio at birth, female literacy, marriage before the legal age, birth spacing, full antenatal care, Mothers who received post-natal care within 48 hours of delivery, Children within 12 to 23 months who are fully immunised, Breastfeeding within 24 hours of birth, Children aged 6 to 35 months are only breastfed for the initial 6 months, women who are aware of HAF/ORS/ORT, and women who are aware of ARI/Pneumonia as independent variables. The study considered district-level data on the mentioned variables over nine annual health survey states over three years. The results reveal that female literacy, birth spacing, immunisation, only breastfeeding till 6 months, and awareness regarding HAF/ORS/ORT all have a statistically significant negative impact on IMR. On the other hand, post-natal care has a statistically significant positive impact on IMR. This surprising result can have two explanations. First, only those children receiving PNC who are already sick and succumbing to their sickness. Second, the patient death rate owing to hospital infection in India is very high, so it may be that infants are succumbing to this particular aspect. Identification of major determinants of infant mortality will eventually lead to actions against them, and that, in due course of time, will tame the onrush of infant mortality in Annual Health Survey States as well as other parts of India and the world. Quantification and determination of the major determinants of infant mortality for the annual health survey states are missing till date, and from that aspect, the article is novel.
Echo Chambers or Doom Scrolling? Homophily, Intensity, and Exposure to Elite Social Media Messages
Authors: Haselswerdt Jake , Fine Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2023

While existing research shows why politicians’ social media messages spread online, we know comparatively less about the types of individuals who see these messages. The current study tests whether Americans’ exposure to posts from political elites is best explained by their partisan allegiance (homophily) or the intensity of their political engagement. To test this question, we employ data from a 2020 Cooperative Election Study module that asks respondents how often they encounter social media posts from various political figures. We find that both homophily and intensity characterize exposure to elite messages: partisans and ideologues not only tend to encounter posts from politicians on their own side of the aisle most often, but they also encounter posts from politicians on the opposite side more often than do independent or moderate respondents. The role of intensity relative to homophily is greatest for posts by former President Donald Trump, which Democrats were more likely to encounter than Republicans or independents.
Lean/Sizzurp Ingredients, Use, and Coping With Mental Health Symptoms
Authors: Ware Orrin D
Published: September 2023

The substance combination of codeine and promethazine, commonly termed lean/ sizzurp, has been identified as a method that some individuals use to cope with PTSD and other mental health symptomology. A sample of 1423 adults with self-reported past year lean use was recruited from substance-related Reddit pages to complete a survey about lean, including information about using lean to cope with emotions, thoughts, or feelings. To be included in the sample, persons needed to: (1) be ⩾18 years old, (2) report past year lean use, (3) complete lean use screeners, and (4) pass data quality checks (eg, bot detection). As Reddit is an online forum, no geographic restrictions were placed on study participation. Data on demographic characteristics, lean use, and mental health disorder symptomology were captured from participants. Logistic regression models included anxiety, depression, and trauma as independent variables along with covariates to examine using lean to cope with emotions, thoughts, or feelings in the past 30 days. Most participants were male (n = 1102; 77.4%), with an average age of 26.9 (SD = 5.2) years. Most participants used included codeine as an ingredient in lean (n = 1060; 74.5%); promethazine was added as an ingredient by 31.7% of the sample (n = 451), and the combination of codeine and promethazine was included as ingredients by 13.5% (n = 192) of the sample. Participants with anxiety, lifetime trauma exposure, and who were female had increased odds of using lean to cope with emotions, thoughts, or feelings in the past 30 days. Those with depression and unstable housing exhibited decreased odds of using lean to cope with emotions, thoughts, or feelings in the past 30 days. This study recruited persons via social media to learn more about lean use, especially lean use to cope with mental health symptoms; future population-level studies are needed.
“Great food, but the noise?”: Relationship between perceived sound quality survey and non acoustical factors in one hotel restaurant in Italy
Authors: Loreto Samantha Di , Lori Valter , Serpilli Fabio , Lops Camilla , Ricciutelli Alessandro , Montelpare Sergio
Published: September 2023

The empirical assessment of the quality of the sound landscape in restaurants and how it affects the overall customer experience has only recently begun to be addressed. Noise from recreational activities, such as discos, restaurants, bars, hotels, etc., characterizes the soundscape of tourist centers, where there is a need to ensure the coexistence of noisy commercial activities and the right to rest of citizens customers of accommodation facilities, often already compromised by traffic. Although there is a renewed sensitivity to the issue of noise, restaurants are often characterized by poor acoustics and a poor multi-sensory perception of comfort. This article examines the noise levels of a hotel’s dining room in an Italian tourist resort during lunch and dinner hours. The study included aspects related to the acoustics, lighting, and quality of the location, also for the assessment of the perception of comfort obtained was given to customers a questionnaire of satisfaction during the meal, every day for a week. Considering the correlation between the three components of the soundscape, namely people, sound, and the environment under consideration, this study aims to explore the effects of the soundscape on sound restoration for accommodation facilities in tourist resorts.
Natural language processing in narrative breast radiology reporting in University Malaya Medical Centre
Authors: Tan Wee Ming , Ng Wei Lin , Ganggayah Mogana Darshini , Hoe Victor Chee Wai , Rahmat Kartini , Zaini Hana Salwani , Mohd Taib Nur Aishah , Dhillon Sarinder Kaur
Published: September 2023

Radiology reporting is narrative, and its content depends on the clinician’s ability to interpret the images accurately. A tertiary hospital, such as anonymous institute, focuses on writing reports narratively as part of training for medical personnel. Nevertheless, free-text reports make it inconvenient to extract information for clinical audits and data mining. Therefore, we aim to convert unstructured breast radiology reports into structured formats using natural language processing (NLP) algorithm. This study used 327 de-identified breast radiology reports from the anonymous institute. The radiologist identified the significant data elements to be extracted. Our NLP algorithm achieved 97% and 94.9% accuracy in training and testing data, respectively. Henceforth, the structured information was used to build the predictive model for predicting the value of the BIRADS category. The model based on random forest generated the highest accuracy of 92%. Our study not only fulfilled the demands of clinicians by enhancing communication between medical personnel, but it also demonstrated the usefulness of mineable structured data in yielding significant insights.
A mixed method study exploring gender differences in dementia caregiving
Authors: Poisson Vincent O. , Poulos Roslyn G. , Withall Adrienne L. , Reilly Ann , Emerson Leanne , O’Connor Claire M. C.
Published: September 2023

Few studies have investigated the experience of male carers of people with dementia and fewer specifically examined whether male and female carers of people with dementia differ in their approach to the caring role. As such, this research set-out to investigate whether male carers of people with dementia approach the caring role differently to female carers. Data from 167 survey participants (24 males and 143 females) were analysed using a mixed research methodology. Participants’ demographics and scores on standardised burden and coping scales were analysed using linear regression. Participants’ written responses to open-ended questions were analysed using thematic analysis anchored in theories of hegemonic masculinity. No significant gender differences were identified in carers’ coping strategies or self-reported carer burden. However, qualitative analysis revealed strong thematic gender differences like: gendered barriers to help-seeking; gendered service preference; gendered considerations about residential care; gendered expression of burden; and themes of the absent son and exhausted daughter. This research identified that male carers of people with dementia approach help-seeking differently to female carers, typically focusing on addressing functional tasks and refraining from showing emotions, this despite reporting similar carer burden. Rapport building with male carers should start with conversations around functional issues rather than assessing the emotional impact of the caring role. The findings reinforce the need for more qualitative research into the unmet needs of male carers of people with dementia, to inform the design of male-friendly interventions which could facilitate timely access to services by male carers.
Rubiadin-1-methyl ether inhibits BECN1 transcription and Beclin1-dependent autophagy during osteoclastogenesis by inhibiting NF-κB p65 activation
Authors: Cai Suizhen , Chen Yuyu , Chen Jiawei , Wei Wen , Pan Jinquan , Wu Haojie
Published: September 2023

As an active substance isolated from the root of Morinda officinalis How., rubiadin-1-methyl ether (RBM), can improve osteoporosis due to its inhibition on osteoclastogenesis. Autophagy plays a key role in osteoclastogenesis. Our research aims to explore the relationship between RBM, autophagy, and osteoclastogenesis. Our results showed that RBM not only inhibited the differentiation level of osteoclasts and the proliferation ability of osteoclast precursors (OCPs), but also repressed the autophagic activity in OCPs (LC3 transformation and the number of autophagosomes observed by transmission electron microscopy). However, RBM-inhibited osteoclast differentiation and OCP autophagy (LC3 transformation and LC3-puncta formation) could be reversed by the application of TAT-Beclin1. Moreover, RBM administration reduced RANKL-induced p65 phosphorylation and p65 nuclear translocation in OCPs. In addition, the addition of RBM inhibited Beclin1 protein level and BECN1 (the gene form of Beclin1) mRNA level in OCPs increased by RANKL. Importantly, the reduction in the expression of BECN1 and Beclin1, LC3 transformation, and osteoclastic differentiation in OCPs caused by RBM were reversed by p65 overexpression. In conclusion, RBM may reduce the transcription of BECN1 by inhibiting the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) p65, thereby inhibiting Beclin1-dependent autophagy and RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis.
Identification of potential biomarkers for nonsurvivor sepsis patients via microarray technology: A study based on GEO datasets
Authors: Ma Yan , Shan Shichao , Luo Cheng , Mo Jianlan , Hu Zhaokun , Jing Ren
Published: September 2023

Background: The mechanism of sepsis especially non-survivors has not yet been identified. Objective: To identify the key genes concerned with non-survivor sepsis (NSS) and analyze its molecular mechanism. Methods: The original data were obtained from the GEO database to screen deferentially expressed genes (DEGs). GO and KEGG analysis were performed to analyze the functional annotation of DEGs. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and related analysis of hub genes were carried out. Further, hub genes were confirmed in the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced septic mice by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Results: We obtained 188 DEGs and 32 hub genes between NSS patients and healthy volunteers. Among of them, the top 10 hub genes including STAT1, ISG15, HERC1, EIF2AK2, RPL27, LY6E, IFI44L, XAF1, RSAD2 and HERC6 were studied, which predict sepsis based on receiver operator characteristic curve analysis. These hub genes were enriched in positive regulation of biomedical process including translation, response to virus and suppression of mitochondrial depolarization, etc.; cell component including mitochondrial inner membrane; molecular function containing ligase activity, etc. These hub genes are also enriched in influenza A infection and leukocyte trans-endothelial migration. The expression of these hub genes is better involved in a diagnosis of NSS, such as HERC6 (AUC = 0.9753, p = .0007), RPL27 (AUC = 0.9691, p = .0008), ISG15 (AUC = 0.9630, p = .0009), STAT1 (AUC = 0.9383, p = .0017), HERC1 (AUC = 0.9259, p = .0023), and XAF1 (AUC = 0.9259, p = .0023). Furthermore, 20 mg/kg of LPS injection up-regulated the expression of ISG15, RPL27, LY6E and HERC6 in the lung tissues compared with control mice. Conclusion: These identified 188 DEGs and 10 hub genes were associated with NSS, especially ISG15, RPL27, LY6E and HERC6 genes expressed in the lung as the most vulnerable organ.
Signature reliability analysis of complex consecutive k-out-of-n:W CMO system via UGF and SFA
Authors: Naaz Sadiya , Khanna Rashmi , Rawat Riya , Negi Neha , Ram Mangey , Kumar Akshay , Kumar Anuj
Published: September 2023

Microwaves are an example of “electromagnetic” radiation, which is a combination of electromagnetic and electrical waves traveling through space. In this paper, the complex consecutive k-out-of- n:W (where, W stands for working system) convection microwave oven system (CMOS) is proposed and different measures are calculated on the basis of the reliability function via two techniques namely, universal generating function (u-function/UGF) and structure-function approach (SFA). Basically, the main aim of the study is to evaluate the signature reliability analysis of the complex consecutive k-out-of- n:W CMOS system using proposed techniques. To assess the suggested system’s reliability function and related metrics, both methods are applied. The considered system consisted of a total seven components, but the system comprises the k-out-of- n:W robustness strategy that’s why it becomes a complex consecutive 5-out-of-7: W CMOS. With the help of the reliability function, the minimal signature is introduced for the determination of the anticipated lifetime and its cost rate. Also. the purpose of this work is to evaluate all these outcomes and then compare their values, which are yielded by both applied approaches, that is, u-function approach and SFA.
Peyronie’s disease and other common penile disorders
Authors: Shekhawat Dr Satpal Singh
Published: September 2023

Peyronie’s disease is a common condition affecting the penis and is characterised by fibrosis of the tunica albuginea of the penis. This condition was named after Francois Gigot de la Peyronie in 1749. This condition causes symptoms of curvature of the penis on erection, painful erection, or pain during intercourse, and can lead to emotional or psychological turmoil for the patient. People suffering from the disease can feel a lump or plaque in the shaft of the penis, which can lead to deformity or shortening of the penis. Balanitis, phimosis and paraphimosis, balanitis xerotica obliterans, penile cancer and congenital malformations are other common penile disorders presenting in general practice that require assessment, diagnosis, treatment and occasionally specialist referral.
Interpersonal communication as an acmeological problem in contemporary education
Authors: Ayagan Yerkin S , Zhekibayeva Botakoz A , Analbekova Karlygash T , Mukhametzhanova Aigul O , Zhukenova Gulpara B
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate and analyse interpersonal communication as a prominent issue in modern educational practice. The authors employed various general scientific research methods including analysis and synthesis, the comparative method, as well as the inductive and deductive approaches. Additionally, a theoretical analysis of relevant research by other scholars was carried out in the final stage of the study. Throughout the research, the authors identified different types of communication and barriers to effective communication. Furthermore, three aspects of a teacher's speech culture were identified. This study explores the educational perspectives within the field of educational science and the emerging scientific concept of educational acmeology in global educational research. The focus on educational acmeology addresses the objective of enhancing teachers' psychological and educational skills, professional competence and the interplay between education and psychology. The findings contribute to the development of professional and scientific relationships among teachers as a result of successful acmeological practices. The practical significance of this research lies in its potential application to examine interpersonal communication as an acmeological problem in contemporary educational settings.
Throwing Shoulder Adaptations Are Not Related to Shoulder Injury or Pain: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Strama Emily , Keenan Karen A. , Sell Timothy , Faherty Mallory , Rafferty Deirdre , Salesi Karl , Csonka Jennifer , Varnell Michelle
Published: September 2023

Background:

Overhead throwing in baseball and softball athletes induces shoulder adaptations theorized to increase risk of shoulder musculoskeletal injury (MSI) and/or pain due to range of motion (ROM) deficits.

Hypothesis:

Shoulder ROM adaptations are associated with a higher risk for developing shoulder MSI and pain.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

A total of 60 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes cleared for full athletic participation and free from upper extremity MSI in the last 4 weeks (age, 19.0 ± 1.2 years; weight, 82.1 ± 13.7 kg; height, 178.6 ± 11.2 cm; softball, n = 23; baseball, n = 37). Passive glenohumeral internal rotation (IR), external rotation (ER), and horizontal adduction (HA) ROM were measured with the scapula stabilized and used to categorize participants with/without external rotation gain (ERG), external rotation insufficiency (ERI), glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD), pathological GIRD, and posterior shoulder tightness (PST) before the competitive season. Groups were then compared to assess the incidence of shoulder MSI prospectively and prevalence of shoulder pain at the initial evaluation.

Results:

Baseball and softball athletes demonstrated significantly less IR ROM in the dominant shoulder (50.6° ± 9.4°) compared with the nondominant shoulder (59.1° ± 8.6°; P < 0.01) and significantly more ER ROM (dominant, 104.6° ± 12.1°; nondominant, 97.7° ± 12.0°; P < 0.01). Incidence of shoulder MSI was 15% but was not significantly related to any shoulder adaptations. No significant relationship was found between prevalence of pain and any shoulder adaptations in the 27% of athletes with pain.

Conclusion:

Increased ER and decreased IR ROM adaptations in intercollegiate overhead throwing athletes do not appear to be correlated to risk of shoulder MSI or pain.

Clinical Relevance:

The findings of this level 3 prospective study provide clinicians working with overhead athletes information regarding shoulder MSI risk and pain. It is recommended that clinicians should not use ROM adaptations exclusively to determine increased risk of shoulder MSI.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on the usage of antiseptics prior to invasive medical procedures: Evidence from Sri Lankan Healthcare Professionals
Authors: Kalingamudali Yasheelee Thameesha , Jalini Praba , Jayamaha Akila , Jayaratne Dehiwela Liyanage
Published: September 2023

Background:

The skin is the largest organ of the body, where many microorganisms reside. These microorganisms can produce detrimental effects if introduced into the body through surgical incisions. Therefore, the aseptic applications of the surgical site, with proper antiseptics, are necessary prior to an invasive medical procedure.

Objectives:

This study aims to identify the knowledge, attitudes, and practices on skin asepsis with the use of antiseptics and to identify the most preferred antiseptic by healthcare professionals in Sri Lanka, which allows understanding of whether the current procedure of skin antisepsis is up to the standard.

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 210 healthcare professionals.

Results:

Most participants had poor knowledge (92.9%) and moderate attitudes with moderate practices (55.2%).

Conclusion:

This study highlights the need to improve further the existing skin antiseptic applications to address the gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
Mental health hygiene during a health crisis: Exploring factors associated with media-induced secondary trauma in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lamba Nishtha , Khokhlova Olga , Bhatia Aditi , McHugh Cillian
Published: September 2023

Aims

Given the risk of developing vicarious trauma through news media has increased during the pandemic, we explored risk factors associated with media induced secondary trauma, and its behavioral and psychological implications.

Methods

An international study ( N = 1066), with a diverse sample, was administered in July 2020. We used standardized and validated questionnaires to measure news consumption, media-related trauma, compliance, and paranoia.

Results

Greater frequency of news consumption, accessing news via social media and WHO, and believing in conspiracy theories increased likelihood of developing media-induced secondary trauma. News related trauma was associated with greater compliance with safety measures and increased paranoid ideation. Media-trauma however exhibited a greater association with paranoia than compliance.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the need to facilitate a collaborative intervention, with public, media houses, health safety officials, and social scientists to have a deeper understanding of potential psychological costs of news consumption patterns.
Colposcopy in the Primary Health Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: Benites-Zapata Vicente A. , Hernandez-Bustamante Enrique A. , Acuña-Chávez Luis M. , Escudero-Gaytan Claudia P. , Ulloque‑Badaracco Juan R. , Alarcón-Braga Esteban A. , Venegas Gino , Herrera-Añazco Percy
Published: September 2023

Aim:

Low- and middle-income countries represent nearly 85% of all cervical cancer cases worldwide; thereby, it is extremely important to identify methods to improve the screening process. Therefore, this study aimed to summarize the primary characteristics of studies on accessibility, coverage, patient preferences, and factors associated with patient satisfaction or acceptance of colposcopy in primary healthcare.

Methods:

A search strategy, based on MeSH, Emtree, and free terms, was run through 5 databases (PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Ovid/Medline, and Web of Science). EndNote 20.1 © and Rayyan QCRI © were used for screening. A preset datasheet was used for data extraction.

Results:

The systematic search retrieved 1127 references, and after removing duplicates, screening the titles and abstracts, and reviewing the full text, 7 studies were included. The interrater reliability was 77.73% (kappa statistic = 0.1842). Most studies estimated the proportion of women that sought for colposcopy after a previous screening test for human papilloma virus. One study identifies barriers to colposcopy examination in women at risk of developing cervical cancer. Three studies assessed the decentralization of colposcopy from a tertiary healthcare center to a primary care center. Pap smear was the most common first-line screening test, followed by liquid-based cytology sample and visual inspection with acetic acid.

Conclusion:

Only a few countries have investigated the use of colposcopy in primary care. Thus, barriers and the care structure for this implementation to be successful in reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality should be identified.
The Use of Telemedicine to Improve Hypertension in an Urban Primary Care Clinic and Predictors of Improved Blood Pressure
Authors: Kerai Ajay , Meda Namratha , Agarwal Khushboo , Garg Mohil , Deb Brototo , Singh Pooja , Singla Puneet , Arar Tareq , Darko Godwin , Oluigbo Nnenna
Published: September 2023

Background and Objective:

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials have demonstrated the efficacy of telemedicine in blood pressure (BP) management when compared to conventional care. We initiated a hypertension telehealth clinic in our urban primary care clinic and through this study aim to evaluate the strengths and limitations of telemedicine in hypertension (HTN) control. The primary outcome of the study is to identify the proportion of patients with improved HTN. Secondary outcomes included identifying: predictors for lower BP, predictors of missing telehealth appointments, and comorbid conditions that are more likely to necessitate use of more than 1 antihypertensive medication.

Methods and Analysis:

Patients seen in the HTN telehealth clinic from May 1st, 2022 to October 31st, 2022 were identified. A retrospective chart review was done to compare the BP during in-person visit prior to first telehealth visit, telehealth visit home BP readings and last recorded in-office BP on chart at end of study period. Descriptive statistical analysis, Chi Square test, and multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze data.

Results:

Of the 234 appointments, 83% were conducted and 154 patients were seen. A remarkable decrease in percentage of patients with BP >140/90 was seen when comparing in-office visit BP to first telehealth visit home BP, 72% versus 45% respectively. No remarkable difference was noted in percentage of patients with BP >140/90 when comparing first telehealth visit home BP to last in-office BP recorded on chart, 45% and 41% respectively. Patients with diabetes had lower odds of missing appointments, adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.34 ([0.12-0.91], P = .03). Patients with partners were more likely to have lower BP at the telehealth visit, aOR:3.2 ([1.15-9.86], P = .03) while patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) (aOR 0.27 ([0.08-0.77], P = .02) and CAD, aOR 0.24 ([0.06-0.8], P = .03) were less likely to have lower BP.

Conclusion:

The study demonstrated telemedicine as a great tool to prevent overtreatment of hypertension as significant difference between in-office BP and home BP during telehealth visits was noted. We did not see a significant change in blood pressure when comparing home BP at first telehealth visit to the last in-person clinic BP at end of study period.
The Impact of Key Stakeholders and the Computer Skills of Librarians on Research Data Management Support Services (Id so-21-1893.r2)
Authors: Zotoo Isidore Komla , Liu Guifeng , Lu Zhangping , Essien Frank Kofi , Su Wencheng
Published: September 2023

This study aims to investigate key stakeholders’ impact and to assess its effect on Research Data Management (RDM), thereby setting the agenda for sound local government Research Data Management (RDM) policy for maximum profit. This study relies mainly on the stakeholder’ theory. Our target population is stakeholders in RDM. The survey used the Partial Least Squares and Structural Equation Modeling tool with a sample of 295 received from respondents to find the effect among the stakeholders. The Statistical results confirmed there is a positive effect among stakeholders. The Funders agencies criteria influence researchers’ work. The effect of government support policies on librarians RDM support services was positive but not significant. The impact of computer literacy of librarians on the RDM support service delivered by librarians was insignificant. The finding is mainly due to overreliance on manual approach to work in most libraries in Ghana as a result inadequate fund support. Librarians need to take a leading role in RDM to implement RDM policy fully. This study contributes to the discourse by helping to strengthen the existing relationship and also to understand the role of various stakeholders in RDM. Stakeholders in Ghana and developing countries need to take greater responsibility to achieve success. Government can rely on it for policy formulation. The research can be used to expand the existing stakeholders’ effective support and interactions as well as in teaching. The survey results can also help identify best practices, improve current observation, and compare practices across different countries.
A System Perspective on Implementation and Usage of the Da Vinci Technology at a Large Norwegian Regional Hospital’
Authors: Høyland S. A. , Holte K. A. , Gjerstad B. , Teig I. L.
Published: September 2023

The aim of this research paper is to identify advantages and barriers to implementation and usage of robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), specifically the Da Vinci robot, at a larger regional hospital in Norway and from a multiple stakeholder perspective. The identified advantages and barriers are connected to the socio-technical system framework SEIPS, thereby establishing a broader contextual system perspective on RAS implementation and usage. Our findings both align and extend upon existing human factors and ergonomics (HFE) knowledge on RAS in the operating room. In terms of specific future directions, we believe that a pressing concern for both management and current HFE research involving RAS implementation and usage relates to exploring and accounting for the close connections between the organization itself and the external stakeholders that exert a considerable influence on the internal work system and processes and the ability to achieve cost-efficiency and safety levels. We further conclude that the SEIPS framework can be a powerful tool in drawing or eliciting the larger contextual picture of RAS implementation and usage, and we encourage further HFE research to explore its application in different contexts to improve the current knowledge base.
Ecological Momentary Assessments in Sociology
Authors: Roth Adam R.
Published: September 2023

The proliferation of smartphone technology has afforded exciting new methodological opportunities within the social sciences. Ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) leverage this recent technological advancement by tracking the behaviors and perceptions of study participants as they are experienced in real time via smartphone devices in natural environments. Despite their longstanding theoretical interest in how the social environment influences a variety of personal outcomes, sociologists have been slower than many related disciplines to embrace EMAs as a viable methodology. This article promotes the use of EMAs by providing a historical overview of the methodology, highlighting several recent developments within sociology, and exploring future directions while clearly explicating inherent limitations to the EMA approach.
Decrease in Anti-VEGF Injections After Post-injection Endophthalmitis in Patients With Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Binczyk Natalia M. , Plemel David J.A. , Seamone Mark , Rudnisky Christopher J. , Tennant Matthew T.S.
Published: September 2023

Introduction: To evaluate the effect of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF)–related endophthalmitis on intravitreal injection (IVI) frequency in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of all cases of post IVI endophthalmitis that occurred in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, between 2012 and 2019. Contralateral eyes affected by nAMD but without endophthalmitis served as a control group. The main outcome measures were the frequency of anti-VEGF injections, visual acuity, and activity of choroidal neovascularization before and after endophthalmitis. Results: Seventeen eyes met the inclusion criteria, 2 (12%) of which never resumed IVI after endophthalmitis because of the quiescence of disease. Post-endophthalmitis eyes received IVI less frequently in the 1 year after endophthalmitis (mean 0.52 ± 0.42 IVI/month) than those that received IVI 1 year before endophthalmitis (1.09 ± 0.36 IVI/month) ( P = .001). The 17 contralateral eyes also received anti-VEGF injections less frequently after endophthalmitis than before ( P = .001). There was no significant change in optical coherence tomography markers of disease activity in cases or controls. Conclusions: In patients with nAMD, endophthalmitis resolution is associated with a decrease in anti-VEGF injection frequency. The same decrease in anti-VEGF injection frequency is also seen in contralateral eyes unaffected by endophthalmitis. Markers of disease activity remain unchanged in both eyes, suggesting disease quiescence despite reduced IVI frequency.
Variability in parameter estimation for a tall steel-frame building
Authors: Rahmani Mohammadtaghi , Barjani Armin , Todorovska Maria I
Published: September 2023

The between-event variability in identified shear wave velocities of fitted four-layer beam models in the response of a 54-story steel-frame building during nine earthquakes over a period of 27 years (1992–2019) is investigated. Recorded response and simulated response by its digital twin (linear finite element model with fixed base) were used as input, that is, the real structure and its digital twin were identified. Two surrogate models were fitted, a Timoshenko beam and a shear beam. The waveform inversion of impulse response functions method, developed earlier by the authors, was used to fit the beam models. The coefficients of variation (C.V.) of the between-events variability in the wave velocity estimates of the four layers were analyzed and compared for the different cases of data (real structure versus digital twin), different surrogate models, and different locations on the floor where the motions were observed. The results showed that the variability of the digital twin was affected by the contamination of the response by torsion, which is not accounted for in the beam models, by the degree of geometric regularity of the structure and by how closely the beam model represented the nature of the building deformation (balance of shear and bending deformation). These effects were minor in comparison to the nonlinear effects (recoverable nonlinearity and permanent stiffness degradation), which were not present in the digital twin response. The C.V. for the real structure (about 3%–5%) was comparable for both beam models fitted.
Effect of near-fault directivity pulses on ground-motion intensity measure correlations from the NGA-West2 data set
Authors: Tarbali Karim , Bradley Brendon A , Baker Jack W
Published: September 2023

This article investigates the correlation coefficients of ground-motion intensity measures for ground motions containing near-fault directivity velocity pulses. These correlation coefficients are necessary to quantify conditional multivariate intensity measure distributions and generate realizations from them for ground-motion selection. The empirical correlations between intensity measures representing ground-motion amplitude, frequency content, duration, and cumulative effects are calculated using the RotD50 definition and compared with published models. The impact of intensity measure definition as in RotD50, RotD100, and the geometric mean is also scrutinized. The sensitivity of the results to the considered ground motion set and the reference ground motion model are addressed in the computations. The results are compared with those from only non-directivity and mixed data sets based on the NGA-West2 database. The results indicate that the adopted data set has the largest influence on the variability of the empirically computed correlation coefficients. Given the multiple sources that contribute to uncertainty in these calculations, the authors conclude that existing models for predicting median correlation coefficients based on mixed data sets are sufficient for use with directivity, non-directivity, and mixed ground motions.
Global food contact regulation updates for 4th quarter 2023
Authors: Zhang Huqiu
Published: September 2023

Government agencies around the world regulate food contact materials or articles. Understanding these regulations and keeping up with the new regulations are essential for maintaining market access for food contact products. My intent is to provide global plastics food contact regulation developments and updates relevant to plastic film and sheet for food packaging.