bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical behavior of cellulosic fiber-incorporated modified fly ash-dispersed polymeric composites
Authors: Biswas Bhabatosh , Hazra Biplab , Chakraborty Subhabrata , Mukherjee Nillohit , Sinha Arijit
Published: July 2021

Alkali-treated discontinuous cellulosic fibers (jute and sisal)-based heat-treated silanized fly ash-dispersed hybrid polyester composites were fabricated using a compression molding technique. The morphological features were observed using a scanning electron microscope and a high-resolution transmission electron microscope. The bulk mechanical testing namely, microhardness, tensile, flexural as well as Izod impact was successfully executed. The significant effect of the filler (cellulosic fibers as well as modified fly ash) dispersion within the polymeric matrix with respect to mechanical properties was thoroughly examined in this present investigation.
Experiences and preferences with sexually transmitted infection care and partner notification in Gaborone, Botswana
Authors: Hansman Emily , Wynn Adriane , Moshashane Neo , Ramontshonyana Kehumile , Mompe Atlang , Mussa Aamirah , Ryan Rebecca , Ramogola-Masire Doreen , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Morroni Chelsea
Published: July 2021

Partner notification and treatment are essential to sexually transmitted infection (STI) management. However, in low- and middle-income countries, half of partners do not receive treatment. A mixed methods study was conducted to explore experiences and preferences around partner notification and treatment in patients seeking STI care in Gaborone, Botswana. Thirty participants were administered a quantitative survey, followed by a semi-structured interview on partner notification, treatment, and expedited partner therapy (EPT). Among the 30 participants, 77% were female with a median age of 28 years (IQR = 24–36), 87% notified their partner, and 45% of partners requiring treatment received treatment. Partners who received a contact slip were more likely to have been treated than those who did not (75% vs. 25%). Contact slips were identified as facilitators of notification and treatment, while asymptomatic partners and limited clinic resources were identified as barriers to treatment. Few participants expressed a preference for EPT and concerns included preference for medical supervision, a belief their partner would refuse, and an inability to explain the treatment. Despite successful notification, partner treatment was modest within this population. Information for partners, provider counseling, and improved access to services may increase partner treatment. Education on STIs and treatment options may improve EPT acceptability.
Graphic novels through the lens of Goodreads reviews: Artistic, textual, or blend of both?
Authors: Hajibayova Lala , McCorkhill Mallory
Published: July 2021

In this study, a textual analysis of the linguistic characteristics of Goodreads user-generated reviews associated with popular graphic novels revealed reviewers’ rich evaluations of both textual and visual characteristics of the novels as well as the embodied orientation of the reviewers’ narrations, wherein positive emotions associated with the reading experience dominated. Overall, the blend of users’ unique perceptions of textual and visual characteristics of graphic novels contributes to the genre’s vivid representation and discoverability. The machine analysis of user-generated reviews revealed a high rate of function words, pronouns, and auxiliary verbs, which may suggest reviewers’ social orientation. This high rate of function words and the overall positive tone of the reviews may also be interpreted as reviewers’ attempts to promote their reviews and influence others’ reading choices.
Immature platelet levels correlate with disease activity and predict treatment response of thrombocytopenia in lupus patients
Authors: Hanata Norio , Shoda Hirofumi , Kono Masanori , Komai Toshihiko , Natsumoto Bunki , Tsuchida Yumi , Tsuchiya Haruka , Nagafuchi Yasuo , Taoka Kazuki , Kurokawa Mineo , Fujio Keishi
Published: July 2021

Objective

The immature platelet fraction (IPF) represents recently produced platelets in bone marrow and this parameter is increased in patient with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). We investigated the associations between IPF and absolute immature platelet count (AIPC), and clinical parameters in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which has more complex pathological mechanisms than in primary ITP.

Methods

Patients with SLE were retrospectively reviewed at the University of Tokyo Hospital from May, 2012 to January, 2021. The correlations between clinical parameters and the number of immature platelets were assessed with Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients. A multiple logistic regression model was used to identify the independent clinical parameters for IPF and AIPC. The difference in the distribution of time for a complete response (CR) after prednisolone (PSL) administration was also evaluated by log-rank test.

Results

A total of 282 SLE patients were enrolled, and 12.41% of those patients showed thrombocytopenia. IPF correlated with clinical parameters such as platelet count (r = −0.58), AIPC (r = 0.64) and systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) (r = 0.24). SLEDAI-2K [odds ratio (OR) (per unit increase), 1.07; 95% CI, 1.013 - 1.13] and thrombocytopenia (OR, 32.23; 95% CI, 11.072 - 93.80) were independent clinical parameters to account for IPF increase. IPF correlated with the number of bone marrow megakaryocytes (n = 19, r = 0.57). Notably, the probability of CR in response to PSL in AIPC-high patients was higher than in AIPC-low patients (hazard ratio, 4.62; 95% CI, 1.07 - 20.02).

Conclusion

IPF correlated with disease activity of SLE and represented platelet production in the bone marrow, whereas AIPC predicted a rapid response to steroids in thrombocytopenic patients with SLE.
Exposure levels of mycophenolic acid are associated with comorbidities in children with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ye Qiaofeng , Wang Guangfei , Lu Jinmiao , Huang Yidie , Zhang Junqi , Zhu Lin , Zhu Yiqing , Lan Jianger , Li Ziwei , Liu Yubing , Xu Hong , Li Zhiping
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Little is known about the relationship between exposure levels of mycophenolic acid (MPA), the active metabolite of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), and comorbidities of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in children. This study aims to explore this association.

Methods

Longitudinal data from SLE children, who were taking MMF for immunosuppression and under therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), were retrospectively collected. Area under the concentration-time curve of mycophenolic acid (MPA) over 24 hours (AUC0–24h) was estimated with Bayesian methods. Logistic regression and random forest models were used to explore the association between comorbidities and MPA exposure levels.

Results

This study included 107 children with 358 times of follow-up (median age 169.02 months). The incidence of diabetes, acute kidney injury (AKI), or pneumonia was significantly associated with AUC0–24h (odds ratio [OR] 0.991, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.982–0.999), SLE duration (OR 1.012, 95% CI 1.002–1.022), lymphocyte percentage (OR 0.959, 95% CI 0.925–0.991), plasma albumin levels (OR 0.891, 95% CI 0.843–0.940), use of aspirin (OR 0.292, 95% CI 0.126–0.633) and hydroxychloroquine (OR 0.407, 95% CI 0.184–0.906). The random forest model showed that albumin and AUC0–24h were two important predictors. The case group (with the three comorbidities) had a mean AUC0–24h of 73.63 mg · h/L, while the control group had a mean AUC0–24h of 100.39 mg · h/L.

Conclusions

Increased levels of MPA exposure are associated with decreased incidence odds of diabetes, AKI or pneumonia in SLE children. An AUC0–24h of 100.39 mg · h/L or an AUC0-12h of 50.20 mg · h/L could be used as the targeted exposure level for clinical practice.
Flexible Use of Referents in the Construction of Organizational Identity: A Longitudinal Case Study
Authors: Laurila Juha , Paalumäki Anni
Published: July 2021

Rapid growth, acquisitions, and diversification are examples of major changes that often result in the need to redefine the distinctive characteristics of the organization in question thereafter. However, a sudden identity presentation that significantly differs from the past lacks credibility among both the organizational members and the organization’s external constituents. We contribute to previous research by showing the previously neglected potential that lies in the flexible selection, valuation, and spatio-temporal positioning of referents, and how this enables the construction of an identity that is simultaneously sufficiently congruent with the organization’s present activities and continuous with its previous identity. Moreover, we also reveal how this use of referents changes across the phases of organizational evolution. Empirically, our findings are grounded on an intensive case study of an organization over a 20-year time frame that evolved from a minor spin-off to a prominent and eventually to a major diversified company.
#MeToo or #MenToo? Expressions of Backlash and Masculinity Politics in the #MeToo Era
Authors: Maricourt Clotilde de , Burrell Stephen R.
Published: July 2021

Since #MeToo took the Internet by storm in 2017, it has had transnational social and legal ramifications. However, there has been little research on the repercussions of this movement for the ways in which masculinity has been politicized as questions around its meaning and place in gender relations were brought to the forefront of public discussions. Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants from two Western Anglophone men’s groups, one embracing and one opposing feminist ideas. Our findings demonstrate a qualitative shift in contemporary expressions of “backlash” and “masculinity politics” in the #MeToo era compared to their initial formulations in the wake of the women’s and men’s movements of the 1960s to 1980s, shaped by novel tropes and tactics.
Bridging the Divide: Does Social Capital Moderate the Impact of Polarization on Health?
Authors: Panagopoulos Costas , Fraser Timothy , Aldrich Daniel P. , Kim Daniel , Hummel David
Published: July 2021

Rising partisan polarization in the American public over the last decade has been linked to stress and anxiety, raising questions about how communities and public health experts should respond. As the strength of an individual’s social network correlates with better health outcomes, could building a diverse set of connections moderate the effect of political polarization on an individual’s health? This study examines the role of social capital as a key intervening variable in the relationship between polarization and health. Drawing on a nationally representative survey of 2,752 U.S. residents conducted in December 2019 compared with county-level data, we use negative binomial, logit, and gamma models to examine the interaction between indicators of political polarization and bonding, bridging, and linking social capital on physical and mental health outcomes. We find consistent evidence that bonding social ties intervene to improve the physical and mental health of individuals in polarized communities, while bridging ties are related to worse health for politically isolated residents. By highlighting the relationship between polarization, social networks, and health, our findings shed light on how public health experts, and policymakers can improve health outcomes in polarized communities.
Effect of temperature on the low-velocity impact response of environmentally friendly cork sandwich structures
Authors: Sergi Claudia , Sarasini Fabrizio , Russo Pietro , Vitiello Libera , Barbero Enrique , Sanchez-Saez Sonia , Tirillò Jacopo
Published: July 2021

Impact events are common in every-day life and can severely compromise the integrity and reliability of high-performing structures such as sandwich composites that are widespread in different industrial fields. Considering their susceptibility to impact damage and the environmental issues connected with their exploitation of synthetic materials, the present work aims to propose a bio-based sandwich structure with an agglomerated cork core and a flax/basalt intraply fabric as skin reinforcement and to address its main weakness, i.e. its impact response. In-service properties are influenced by temperature, therefore the effect of high (60 °C) and low (−40°C) temperatures on the impact behavior of the proposed structures was investigated and a suitable comparison with traditional (polyvinyl chloride) (PVC) foams was provided. The results highlighted the embrittlement effect of decreasing temperature on the impact resistance of the sole cores and skins and of the overall structures with a reduction in the perforation energy that shifted, in the last case, from 50–60 J at – 40 °C up to more than 180 J at 60 °C. A maleic anhydride coupling agent in the skins hindered fundamental energy dissipation mechanisms such as matrix plasticization, determining a reduction in the perforation threshold of all composites. In particular, neat polypropylene (PP) skins displayed a perforation energy of 20 J higher than compatibilized (PPC) ones at 60 °C, while agglomerated cork sandwich structures at 60 °C were characterized by a perforation threshold higher of at least 50 J.
Snus and Alcohol: Mutually Rewarding Effects in the Brain? A Matched Controlled Population Study
Authors: Watten Reidulf G , Watten Veslemøy P
Published: July 2021

Background:

The use of moist smokeless tobacco (snus) is increasing in the U.S. and other Western countries, and especially among young people. Snus is associated with several health problems, but the relationship between use of snus and alcohol is scarcely explored. Neuro-cognitive and psychological research suggest an association due to possible mutually rewarding effects in the limbic brain. We investigated this issue in a matched controlled population study.

Methods:

Matched control group design where drinking habits and alcohol consumption in a group of users of snus (n = 1043, mean age = 35.20; n men = 749, n women = 294) were compared to a control group of non-users matched on age and gender (n = 1043, mean age = 35.65; n men = 749, n women = 294). In addition, we registered background variables such as level of education, income, self-perceived general, dental health, mental health, current depressive symptoms, and BMI. In estimation of alcohol consumption, the background variables were used as covariates in factorial analyses of variance (ANCOVA).

Results:

Users of snus had lower level of education, lower income, poorer general, dental, and mental health status than non-users, but there were no differences in BMI. Differences in mental health status were related to drinking habits. Users of snus had a higher frequency of drinking, higher frequency of intoxication, and showed more excess drinking. Controlled for background variables users of snus had a 25.2% higher estimated yearly consumption of alcohol in terms of standard units of alcohol on the weekdays, 26.4% higher on weekends and a 60.2% higher yearly excess consumption.

Conclusion:

Users of snus had an elevated alcohol consumption and another drinking style than non-users. The findings are discussed according to neuro-cognitive and psychopharmacological mechanisms, reward learning and conditioning. The results have implications for prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of alcohol and nicotine dependence.
Soft Tissue Filler Therapy and Informed Consent: A Canadian Review
Authors: Arlette John P. , Froese Andrea L. , Singh Jaspreet K.
Published: July 2021

Soft Tissue Filler (STF) Therapy for cosmetic facial rejuvenation is associated with known complications. The manifestation of these known complications can lead to patients commencing civil litigation actions or making complaints to provincial regulatory authorities and alleging that the practitioner failed to obtain the patient’s informed consent to the therapy. Data provided by the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) on medical-legal cases arising from the provision of STF therapy between 2005 and 2019 are presented. Select reported case law decisions from Canadian courts and regulatory bodies addressing the concept of informed consent are reviewed. Insights about the risk factors pertaining to the process of obtaining informed consent for STF therapy are presented to increase an understanding of the elements of communication and documentation needed to ensure patients are aware of the consequences of this treatment.
Archives of place, feeling, and time: Immersive historical field research in the (Finnish) U.S. Midwest
Authors: Saramo Samira
Published: July 2021

In Summer 2018, I set out to find the feel of the places I have long studied as a historian, resulting in an expansion of my research process and ‘archive’. This article introduces and reflects on key moments and ideas from this research journey through historic strongholds of Finnish settlement in the U.S. Midwest. I discuss how following community leads and engaging with local knowledge-carriers made clear that my search for the past was intimately entangled with the present realities and future implications of demographic and economic change. I reflect on moments of being in place that allowed me to think through the inter-workings of historical memory and sensory imagination. This resulted in the integration of a photographic practice that serves as both a source and a tool for (re-)articulating feelings of particular moments in the field. I conclude by analyzing the fluid and multiple processes at play in the creation of research and archives. As a whole, this exploration aims to further embolden qualitative researchers to engage in sensitive research that makes space for feeling – both through emotions and senses – the productive and powerful pulls of time and place operating within our sites of research.
Role of long interspersed nuclear element-1 in the regulation of chromatin landscapes and genome dynamics
Authors: Ramos Kenneth S , Bojang Pasano , Bowers Emma
Published: July 2021

LINE-1 retrotransposon, the most active mobile element of the human genome, is subject to tight regulatory control. Stressful environments and disease modify the recruitment of regulatory proteins leading to unregulated activation of LINE-1. The activation of LINE-1 influences genome dynamics through altered chromatin landscapes, insertion mutations, deletions, and modulation of cellular plasticity. To date, LINE-1 retrotransposition has been linked to various cancer types and may in fact underwrite the genetic basis of various other forms of chronic human illness. The occurrence of LINE-1 polymorphisms in the human population may define inter-individual differences in susceptibility to disease. This review is written in honor of Dr Peter Stambrook, a friend and colleague who carried out highly impactful cancer research over many years of professional practice. Dr Stambrook devoted considerable energy to helping others live up to their full potential and to navigate the complexities of professional life. He was an inspirational leader, a strong advocate, a kind mentor, a vocal supporter and cheerleader, and yes, a hard critic and tough friend when needed. His passionate stand on issues, his witty sense of humor, and his love for humanity have left a huge mark in our lives. We hope that that the knowledge summarized here will advance our understanding of the role of LINE-1 in cancer biology and expedite the development of innovative cancer diagnostics and treatments in the ways that Dr Stambrook himself had so passionately envisioned.
Comprehensive analysis of dysregulated genes associated with atherosclerotic plaque destabilization
Authors: Qian Cheng , Jing Yuling , Xia Meng , Ye Qiang
Published: July 2021

Atherosclerotic plaque destabilization is a dominating cause of acute cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke. This study aims to identify genetic biomarkers related to atherosclerotic plaque destabilization using bioinformatics. Three transcriptome datasets of human carotid atherosclerotic plaque samples were downloaded from ArrayExpress and Gene Expression Omnibus databases, including E-MATB-2055, E-TABM-190, and GSE120521. With Robust Rank Aggregation analysis, we documented 46 differentially expressed genes between stable and unstable/ruptured plaques. Functional enrichment analysis using DAVID tool demonstrated that these genes were mainly related to biological functions such as extracellular matrix disassembly, collagen catabolic process, response to mechanical stimulus, and PPAR signaling pathway. A protein–protein interaction network for the differentially expressed genes was constructed, and eight pivotal genes ( ITGAM, MMP9, PLAUR, CCR1, CD163, CD36, ADAM8, and IL1RN) were obtained from the network with a connective degree > 5. The expression patterns of these hub differentially expressed genes could be verified in atherosclerotic plaque samples with intraplaque hemorrhage. Using gene set variation analysis, the eight genes were integrated to generate an atherosclerotic plaque destabilization score, which showed a high performance in not only discriminating individuals with myocardial infarction from those with stable coronary illness, but also in predicting future acute cardiovascular events in atherosclerotic patients. In conclusion, the findings of this study will enhance our knowledge on the pathological mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic plaque destabilization, and provide potential gene biomarkers for risk stratification of patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Hand Trauma
Authors: Saleh Serag , Faulkner Harrison , Golledge Kelsi , Graham David J. , Lawson Richard D. , Symes Michael J. , Sivakumar Brahman S.
Published: July 2021

Background

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a dramatic impact on individual and societal behaviors, as well as on health care systems. It confers a unique opportunity to examine the relationship among disease, policies, and patterns of activity, as well as their impacts on surgical unit functionality. This study aims to compare the distribution and patterns of injury at a tertiary hand surgery trauma center before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of all patients presenting to the Royal North Shore Hospital hand surgery service in the 5-week period from March 16 to April 21 in 2019 and 2020 was undertaken, forming 2 cohorts for comparison. Demographic, injury, and operative data were collected and compared descriptively using comparative statistics.

Results

There were 114 primary operative presentations during the 5-week period in 2020, representing a 27.4% decrease from the 157 presentations during the equivalent period in 2019. There was an increase in the proportion of emergency presentations from 73.9% in 2019 to 85.1% in 2020 ( P = .03), with a corresponding decrease in elective presentations during 2020. The incidence of sporting injuries and motor vehicle accidents decreased in 2020, whereas falls and accidents involving knives and tools remained relatively constant. Operating times decreased in 2020, whereas the length of hospital stay remained constant.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic and consequent restrictions of activity have had substantial impacts on the patterns of hand trauma and its management. These insights have implications for staff and resource management during times of social disruption in the future.
Cost Comparison of Kirschner Wire Versus Intramedullary Screw Fixation of Metacarpal and Phalangeal Fractures
Authors: Brewer Christopher F. , Young-Sing Quillian , Sierakowski Adam
Published: July 2021

Background

Intramedullary screw fixation is a relatively new technique for fixation of metacarpal and phalangeal fractures. The objective of this study was to compare health care–associated costs and outcomes for intramedullary screw versus Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation of hand fractures.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients undergoing intramedullary screw fixation of hand fractures at a single center during 2016-2019 inclusive was conducted. Health care–associated costs were compared with age-matched and fracture pattern–matched controls who underwent K-wire fixation.

Results

Fifty patients met the study inclusion criteria, incorporating 62 fractures (29 K-wire, 33 intramedullary screw fixation). The median age was 34.6 years (18.0-90.1 years). There was no significant difference in primary operative costs (£1130.4 ± £162.7 for K-wire vs £1087.0 ± £104.2 for intramedullary screw), outpatient follow-up costs (£958.7 ± £149.4 for K-wire vs £782.4 ± £143.8 for intramedullary screw), or total health care–associated costs (£2089.1 ± £209.0 for K-wire vs £1869.4 ± £195.3 for intramedullary screw). However, follow-up costs were significantly lower for the uncomplicated intramedullary screw cohort (£847.1 ± £109.1 for K-wire vs £657.5 ± £130.8 for intramedullary screw, P = .05). Subgroup analysis also revealed that overall costs were significantly higher for buried K-wire techniques. Complication rates, time to return to active work, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores were similar.

Conclusions

This study identified significantly lower outpatient follow-up costs for uncomplicated intramedullary screw fixation of hand fractures compared with K-wires, along with a trend toward lower overall health care–associated costs. In addition, buried K-wire techniques were also found to carry a significantly higher financial burden. Higher powered prospective studies are required to determine indirect costs.
The U Shape of Happiness: A Response
Authors: Blanchflower David G. , Graham Carol L.
Published: July 2021

We write in response to an article published in this journal, “The U Shape of Happiness Across the Life Course: Expanding the Discussion,” by Galambos, Krahn, Johnson and Lachman. The authors claim that “support for the purported U shape is not as robust and generalizable as is often assumed” and “we believe the conclusion that happiness declines from late adolescence to midlife (the first half of the U shape) is premature, and possibly wrong.” We respectfully disagree. The authors’ main evidence is based on summaries of 33 articles; they find 12 to have U shapes, seven to have none, and 14 to be mixed. We found that most of these articles are misclassified: Four of them are ineligible for inclusion, 25 find a U, and four are mixed. We then identified a further 353 articles, including 329 in peer-reviewed journals, that all found U shapes that were not identified in the literature review. This is a major omission. We also present our own evidence of midlife nadirs in well-being using around eight and a half million individual observations from nationally representative surveys for the United States and Europe. The midlife low occurs in the mid-40s and its drop is equivalent to roughly three quarters of the unprecedented drop observed in well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Principles for technology use in athlete support across the skill level continuum
Authors: McCosker Chris , Otte Fabian , Rothwell Martyn , Davids Keith
Published: July 2021

A major challenge to sport practitioners working across all levels of sport is ensuring that technological platforms are integrated effectively to assist learning along the development pathway. Under the framework of ecological dynamics, we introduce technology as a support opportunity for athletes to learn to become better attuned to, and utilise, key sources of information to self-regulate their actions. Importantly, technology not only supports learning, but also serves as a tool to encourage active engagement in learning from early childhood to late adulthood. Coaches also need to be wary of the potential perils of the mismanagement of technology use and how it can act as a learning rate limiter. Misuse of technological tools may inhibit the learning process by inhibiting an athlete’s ability or willingness to explore and exploit available information in the performance environment, as well as stimulate possible feelings of control and surveillance. By illustrating how technology may complement athlete learning under the guidance of the theoretical framework of ecological dynamics, it is intended that coaches may gain a better understanding of how technological tools can be used more strategically to enhance learning.
The IUHPE Health Promotion Accreditation System – developing and maintaining a competent health promotion workforce
Authors: Battel-Kirk Barbara , Chiou Shu-Ti , Comeau Liane , Dillon Ronan , Doherty Kirsten , Jones-Roberts Andrew , Lockwood Tia , Sendall Marguerite Claire , Speller Viv , Barry Margaret M
Published: July 2021

This commentary reports on the development and implementation of the competency-based IUHPE Health Promotion Accreditation System in the context of workforce capacity as a key activity of the International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE). The process of developing the System is described, including how it built on, and added to, international research and experience in competency-based approaches to health promotion. An overview of how the System works, its current status and future plans, is presented. Evidence of the positive impact of the System to date, in particular in the context of health promotion education, is considered.
Norwood Procedure in a Patient With Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, Right Aortic Arch, and Right Descending Aorta
Authors: Palacios-Macedo Alexis , Díliz-Nava Héctor , García-Benítez Luis , Pérez-Juárez Fabiola , Tamariz-Cruz Orlando
Published: July 2021

We describe the surgical treatment of a patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and right aortic arch.
Psychological Workplace Violence and Health Outcomes in South Korean Nurses
Authors: Lee Jinhwa , Lee Bokim
Published: July 2021

Background

Workplace violence (WPV) and its health consequences should continue to be investigated to foster a healthy and safe working environment, which may reduce nurse staff turnover and improve nurse staff shortages. This study aimed to address the gap in understanding WPV in non-western nurses by examining the relationship between psychological WPV experience, psychological well-being, subjective job stress, and presenteeism among South Korean nurses.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used data from the fifth Korean Working Conditions Survey (KWCS), and 477 nurses were analyzed. For the analysis, selected variables were extracted from the KWCS through a review of the existing literature. In the analysis, we included psychological WPV experiences, such as verbal abuse, unwanted sexual attention, threats, and/or humiliating behaviors over the past 1 month. We measured health outcomes including nurses’ psychological well-being, subjective job stress, and presenteeism.

Findings

Psychological WPV within the previous month was experienced by 11.1% of the participants. Experience with verbal abuse, threats, or humiliating behaviors was associated with more job stress, higher presenteeism, and poor psychological well-being.

Conclusion/Application to Practice

Study findings suggest that a comprehensive WPV prevention program accompanied by interventions aiming to reduce job stress and improve the well-being of nurses should be actively implemented. To prevent psychological WPV and improve the health of nurses, evidence-based efforts, such as establishment of WPV prevention procedures and education/training of workers at the national, organizational, and individual levels are needed.
Emergency Department Patient Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Karalius Vytas P. , Kaskar Saabir B. , Levine Daniel A. , Darling Tiffani A. , Loftus Timothy M. , McCarthy Danielle M.
Published: July 2021

Emergency department (ED) utilization changed notably during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the United States. The purpose of the study was to gain a more thorough understanding of ED patient experience during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study used the consensual qualitative approach to analyze open-ended responses from post-ED patient experience surveys from February through July 2020. Comments were included in the analysis if they pertained to care during the pandemic (eg, mentioned “the virus,” “masks,” “PPE”). A total of 242 COVID-specific comments from 192 unique patients were analyzed (median age 49 years; 69% female). Six themes were identified: visually observed changes, experiences of process changes, expressions of understanding or appreciation, sense of security, COVID-19 disease-specific comments, and “classic” satisfaction comments that align with previous literature on patient experience. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged health care systems across the world in unique and unprecedented ways. This study identified six themes that better elucidate ED patient experience during an unprecedented public health crisis.
Outcomes of an Equine Assisted Learning Curriculum to Support Well-Being of Medical Students and Residents
Authors: Artz Nicole L , Robbins Jesse , Millman Suzanne T
Published: July 2021

Objectives of this study were to evaluate an equine assisted learning (EAL) curriculum designed for medical students and resident physicians, and to determine impacts of the curriculum on participant perceptions of burnout and well-being. The EAL curriculum incorporated evidence-based skills and concepts to increase happiness and/or resilience. A pre/post intervention design was used, with 18 EAL participants receiving the curriculum within their month-long community based primary care clerkship elective, and 10 control (CTL) participants who did not receive the curriculum within their clerkship elective. Three waves of surveys tested participant responses before, immediately after, and 3 months after the intervention. Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) screened for depression and anxiety, and Maslach Burnout Inventory- Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel (MBI) addressed burnout. Analysis of covariance evaluated differences between EAL and CTL groups. EAL participants rated the curriculum highly (9.2 on a 10-point scale). The evaluations were overwhelmingly positive with participants able to identify key concepts that were most helpful, how they would apply those concepts to patient care and interactions with colleagues, and how the horses added value to their learning experience. Significant positive effects of EAL on burnout were identified in terms of improved MBI personal achievement scores, as well as a trend towards improved well-being scores. There was also a trend ( P < .08) towards PHQ-4 depression scores to be lower in EAL group at T3. In conclusion, this study is the first to provide AU: quantitative evidence of positive outcomes associated with an EAL curriculum designed to strengthen well-being in medical students and resident physicians.
Examination of Pedagogy and Instructional Innovation to Create Entrepreneurs in the Media and Technology Fields
Authors: Graybeal Geoffrey M. , Ferrier Michelle B.
Published: July 2021

While STEAM disciplines like engineering and the arts have made great strides in exploring pedagogical strategies for teaching entrepreneurship education, media entrepreneurship is much more in its infancy, having emerged in journalism and communication curricula in the early 2000s. These media-focused programs may teach career competencies such as digital communication, interpersonal and team skills and innovation strategies to a broad swath of interdisciplinary students, including those from engineering, arts and other STEAM disciplines. It has been a decade since Neck and Greene highlighted three “known worlds” of teaching entrepreneurship and proposed a new “method” world. Using recent syllabi solicited from media entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial journalism and journalism innovation courses, this study evaluates which of the “worlds” – entrepreneur, process, cognition, or method – is being utilized to teach entrepreneurship in the media and technology fields.
A Primer on Bayesian Model-Averaged Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gronau Quentin F. , Heck Daniel W. , Berkhout Sophie W. , Haaf Julia M. , Wagenmakers Eric-Jan
Published: July 2021

Meta-analysis is the predominant approach for quantitatively synthesizing a set of studies. If the studies themselves are of high quality, meta-analysis can provide valuable insights into the current scientific state of knowledge about a particular phenomenon. In psychological science, the most common approach is to conduct frequentist meta-analysis. In this primer, we discuss an alternative method, Bayesian model-averaged meta-analysis. This procedure combines the results of four Bayesian meta-analysis models: (a) fixed-effect null hypothesis, (b) fixed-effect alternative hypothesis, (c) random-effects null hypothesis, and (d) random-effects alternative hypothesis. These models are combined according to their plausibilities given the observed data to address the two key questions “Is the overall effect nonzero?” and “Is there between-study variability in effect size?” Bayesian model-averaged meta-analysis therefore avoids the need to select either a fixed-effect or random-effects model and instead takes into account model uncertainty in a principled manner.
Self-reported positive impact of mentored clinical research training is associated with academic success in hematology
Authors: King Allison A. , Vesely Sara K. , Dadzie Grace , Calhoun Cecelia , Cuker Adam , Stock Wendy , Walker Alison , Fritz Josel , Sung Lillian
Published: July 2021

The American Society of Hematology Clinical Research Training Institute (CRTI) is a mentored training program for hematology fellows and junior faculty. Our objective was to determine whether the self-reported impact of CRTI on research retention, career development, and connectedness to hematology investigators was associated with academic success. A survey was distributed in January 2020 to alumni who participated in the program from 2003 to 2019. It focused on the impact of CRTI on retention in research, facilitation of career development, understanding of requirements to succeed, and feelings of connectedness to investigators. These questions were scored on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree. Outcomes were grants, publications, and invited lectures; these were abstracted from a submitted curriculum vitae. Of 334 eligible alumni, 321 responded (response rate of 96.1%). Of these, 250 (77.9%) agreed that CRTI was instrumental to research retention, 268 (83.5%) agreed that CRTI facilitated career development, 296 (92.2%) agreed that CRTI allowed a better understanding of requirements to succeed in research, and 289 (90.0%) agreed that CRTI increased connectedness to hematology investigators. Those who agreed with these CRTI impacts had significantly more first-author publications. Those who agreed that CRTI was instrumental to retention, facilitated career development, and increased connectedness had significantly more protected time for research. Self-reported perception that CRTI had an impact on research retention, career development, and connectedness to hematology investigators was significantly associated with more publications and percent effort in research. Clinical research training programs should identify and implement approaches to enhance these characteristics.
Psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities of persistent post-traumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury
Authors: Ashina Håkan , Al-Khazali Haidar Muhsen , Iljazi Afrim , Ashina Sait , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Lipton Richard B. , Schytz Henrik Winther
Published: July 2021

Objective

To investigate the association of psychiatric and cognitive comorbidities with persistent post-traumatic headache (PTH) attributed to mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

A total of 100 patients with persistent PTH attributed to mild TBI and 100 age- and gender-matched healthy controls free of mild TBI were enrolled between July 2018 and June 2019. Quality of sleep was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, while symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Cognitive impairment was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment questionnaire, while post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was assessed using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire.

Results

In 100 patients with persistent PTH, 85% reported poor quality sleep, compared with 42% of healthy controls (P < 0.01). The relative frequency of probable to high risk of anxiety was 52% in the persistent PTH group vs. 8% in healthy controls (P < 0.01), while the relative frequency of probable to high risk of depression was 42% in the persistent PTH group vs. 2% in healthy controls (P < 0.01). Furthermore, 27% of the patients with persistent PTH had mild cognitive impairment while 10% had probable PTSD.

Conclusions

Poor quality of sleep as well as symptoms suggestive of anxiety and depression were more common in patients with persistent PTH than healthy controls. Clinicians should screen patients with persistent PTH for these comorbidities and develop treatment plans that account for their presence.
Lower urinary tract signs and symptoms in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Marand Aida Javan Balegh , Bach Christian , Janssen Dick , Heesakkers John , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Vögeli Thomas Alexander , Salehi-Pourmehr Hanieh , Mostafae Hadi , Hajebrahimi Sakineh , Rahnama’i Mohammad Sajjad
Published: July 2021

Background

The type of pneumonia that is caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has spread across the world in a pandemic. It is not clear if COVID-19 patients have any lower urinary tract signs or symptoms.

Methods

The effect of COVID-19 on lower urinary tract function was studied in a prospective multi-centre, observational study including 238 patients who were admitted with symptoms caused by COVID-19 to the university hospital of Aachen in Germany and Tabriz in Iran.

Results

None of the patients reported to have any lower urinary tract symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 was found in the urine of 19% of the tested patients.

The mortality rate in COVID-19 infected patients with microscopic haematuria together with white blood cells in their urine, was significantly increased from 48 to 61% in the Tabriz cohort (p-value = 0.03) and from 30 to 35% in the Aachen cohort (p-value =0.045). Furthermore, in the group of patients with SARS-CoV-2 urine PCR, the mortality rate rose from 30 to 58%. (p-value =0.039).

Conclusion

Patients admitted with COVID-19 did not report to have any lower urinary tract symptoms, even those patient who had a positive Urine SARS-CoV-2 PCR.

In addition, hematuria, WBC in urine as well as SARS- CoV-2 presence in urine, were found to be strong negative prognostic factors in admitted COVID-19 patients.
Comparative iTRAQ proteomics identified proteins associated with sperm maturation between yak and cattleyak epididymis
Authors: Zhao Wangsheng , Ahmed Siraj , Liu Junxia , Ahmed Saeed , Quansah Eugene , Solangi Tajmal Hussain , Wu Yitao , Yangliu Yueling , Wang Hongmei , Zhu Jiangjiang , Cai Xin
Published: July 2021

Background

During maturation, spermatozoa acquire motility and fertilizing capacity as they transit through the epididymis. In recent years, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis has been employed in proteomics studies conducted in rat, boar and human. However, there has not been a complete information regarding the proteins associated with sperm maturation in the epididymis. In this study, we employed iTRAQ proteomics to investigate proteins associated with sperm maturation between yak and cattleyak epididymis.

Results

After a successful sampling and protein extraction, the iTRAQ coupled with LC-MS/MS mass spectrometry and bioinformatics analysis were performed. We identified 288 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) between yak and cattleyak epididymis; 151 were up-regulated while 137 were down-regulated in cattleyak relative to yak. Gene Ontology analysis identified that down-regulated DAPs in cattleyak were mostly enriched in the acetylation of protein component, along with negative and positive regulatory activities. iTRAQ proteomics data showed that the top up-regulated DAPs were mainly enriched in cell communication, cell adhesion, cytoskeleton organization, stress response, post-translational modifications and metabolic functions while the down-regulated DAPs were predominantly associated with sperm maturation, long-term sperm storage, sperm forward motility, sperm-oocyte fusion and regulatory functions.

Conclusion

These results provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying male cattleyak sterility.
Effects of medicaid expansion on poverty disparities in health insurance coverage
Authors: Lin Yilu , Monnette Alisha , Shi Lizheng
Published: July 2021

Background

More than 30 states have either expanded Medicaid or are actively considering expansion. The coverage gains from this policy are well documented, however, the impacts of its increasing coverage on poverty disparity are unclear at the national level.

Method

American Community Survey (2012–2018) was used to examine the effects of Medicaid expansion on poverty disparity in insurance coverage for nonelderly adults in the United States. Differences-in-differences-in-differences design was used to analyze trends in uninsured rates by poverty levels: (1) < 138 %, (2) 138–400 % and (3) > 400 % federal poverty level (FPL).

Results

Compared with uninsured rates in 2012, uninsured rates in 2018 decreased by 10.75 %, 6.42 %, and 1.11 % for < 138 %, 138–400 %, and > 400 % FPL, respectively. From 2012 to 2018, > 400 % FPL group continuously had the lowest uninsured rate and < 138 % FPL group had the highest uninsured rate. Compared with ≥ 138 % FPL groups, there was a 2.54 % reduction in uninsured risk after Medicaid expansion among < 138 % FPL group in Medicaid expansion states versus control states. After eliminating the impact of the ACA market exchange premium subsidy, 3.18 % decrease was estimated.

Conclusion

Poverty disparity in uninsured rates improved with Medicaid expansion. However, < 138 % FPL population are still at a higher risk for being uninsured.