bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dementia and Early Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders Associated With Less Intensive of End-of-Life Care: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Luth Elizabeth A. , Pan Cynthia X. , Viola Martin , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Dementia is a leading cause of death among US older adults. Little is known about end-of-life care intensity and do-not-resuscitate orders (DNRs) among patients with dementia who die in hospital.

Aim:

Examine the relationship between dementia, DNR timing, and end-of-life care intensity.

Design:

Observational cohort study.

Setting/Participants:

Inpatient electronic health record extraction for 2,566 persons age 65 and older who died in 2 New York City hospitals in the United States from 2015 to 2017.

Results:

Multivariable logistic regression analyses modeled associations between dementia diagnosis, DNR timing, and 6 end-of-life care outcomes. 31% of subjects had a dementia diagnosis; 23% had a DNR on day of hospital admission. Patients with dementia were 18%-40% less likely to have received 4 of 6 types of intensive care (mechanical ventilation AOR: 0.82, 95%CI: 0.67 -1.00; intensive care unit admission AOR: 0.60, 95%CI: 0.49-0.83). Having a DNR on file was inversely associated with staying in the intensive care unit (AOR: 0.57, 95%CI: 0.47-0.70) and avoiding other intensive care measures. DNR placement later during the hospitalization and not having a DNR were associated with more intensive care compared to having a DNR upon admission.

Conclusions:

Having dementia and a do-not resuscitate order upon hospital admission are associated with less intensive end-of-life care. Additional research is needed to understand why persons with dementia receive less intensive care. In clinical practice, encouraging advance care planning prior to and at hospital admission may be particularly important for patients wishing to avoid intensive end-of-life care, including patients with dementia.
COVID-19: Boredom in the Family
Authors: Latif Hasan , Karaman Engin
Published: January 2021

This research is focused on the subject of boredom in the families during the stay-at-home process forced by coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The literature on boredom was reviewed, and then the qualitative research was designed with the open-ended questions appropriate for the subject and purpose. The research was conducted between April 20 and 29, 2020, in Istanbul, Turkey, with the participation of 264 families. The most significant findings of the research showed that family members accustomed to active life experienced boredom more during the stay-at-home process, they utilized information technologies very often to overcome boredom, the importance of time spent at home increased, involuntary behaviors such as overeating and snacking became common, the livelihood difficulties and fear of unemployment increased boredom, nevertheless, no conflict occurred between the family members, and the process taught to be patient and strong.
Treatment Patterns and Clinical Outcomes in Korean Cancer Patients With Venous Thromboembolism: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bang Soo-Mee , Kang Jin-Hyoung , Hong Min Hee , Ahn Jin-Seok , Oh So Yeon , Baek Jin Ho , Choi Yoon Ji , Shin Seong Hoon , Kim Young-Joo , Gil Ha-Yeong , Park Hyung-Eun , Lee Juneyoung , Park Eun-Lyeong
Published: January 2021

This study assessed epidemiologic data and clinical outcomes, including venous thromboembolism (VTE) recurrence and bleeding events, in patients with cancer-associated VTE, and assessed factors associated with clinical outcomes. Data were extracted from retrospective medical-chart review of adult patients diagnosed with cancer-associated deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism who received anticoagulation treatment for ≥3 months. Patients were classified by: low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), and other anticoagulants. First VTE recurrence and bleeding events, and factors associated with their occurrence, were assessed during the initial 6 months of treatment. Overall, 623 patients (age: 63.7 ± 11.3 years, 49.3% male) were included (119, 132, and 372 patients in LMWH, DOACs and other anticoagulants groups, respectively). The cumulative 6-month incidence of VTE recurrence was 16.6% (total), 8.3% (LMWH), 16.7% (DOACs), and 20.7% (other); respective bleeding events were 22.5%, 11.0%, 12.3%, and 30.7%). VTE recurrence and bleeding rates differed only between LMWH and other anticoagulants (HR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2-5.0 and 3.6, 1.9-6.8, respectively). These results highlight the importance of initial VTE treatment choice for preventing VTE recurrence and bleeding events. LMWH or DOACs for ≥3 months can be considered for effective VTE management in cancer patients.
Intimate Partner Violence Against Indigenous Women in Sololá, Guatemala: Qualitative Insights Into Perspectives of Service Providers
Authors: Wands Zoë Elspeth , Mirzoev Tolib
Published: January 2021

Over a third of women in Guatemala are subjected to intimate partner violence (IPV). Indigenous Mayan women are particularly vulnerable, due to the intersection of race, gender, and poverty. However, no research exists into the causes of IPV among this group. Our pioneering study addresses this knowledge gap. Our results from in-depth interviews with service providers in Sololá highlight four interlinked causes of IPV: rigid gender roles, lack of awareness of women’s rights, use of alcohol by men, and poor reproductive health. From these, we draw implications for service provision to victims of IPV.
Outpatient fractionated ICE protocol in relapsed/refractory lymphomas: Efficacy and safety
Authors: Dada Reyad , Abdelghani Ehab Mosaad , Boubakra Tarek , Vayani Jaweed , Yousof Osama , Heaphy Emily L Goldman , Nawaz Azhar
Published: January 2021

Methods

In this retrospective trial, we analyzed data of patients with relapsed/refractory lymphoma who received outpatient fractionated ICE between 2011-2017 at a tertiary care center. The three weekly ICE protocol consisted of: ifosfamide 1500 mg/m2 infused over 2 h on days 1–3, carboplatin (5 AUC) on day 1, and etoposide 100 mg/m2 on days 1–3. Rituximab 375 mg/m2 was given to patients with CD20 positive B cell Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Results

Total of 89 patients were included in this research project. Majority of patients had Hodgkin lymphoma (64%). Mean number of ICE cycles received was 2.5. Complete remission and partial remission rates for primary refractory (62.9%) and non-primary refractory (36.4%) disease were 10.5% and 26.3% versus 41.9% and 29.0% respectively. Event free survival rate was 14.5 months (95% CI 7.7–28.0) and overall survival rate 88.7 months (95% CI 48.1–NR). Grade 3 hematological toxicities were documented in 19.1% of patients with 10.1% experiencing neutropenia and 9% thrombocytopenia. 5.6% had febrile neutropenia.

Conclusions

Our study included, to our knowledge, the largest number of patients treated with outpatient fractionated ICE. Results demonstrated that this regimen might be a reasonable replacement for classic ICE regimen in many patients with lymphoma. It has a favorable safety profile. However, patients with primary refractory lymphomas need more effective regimens.
Commentary: Should all cancer patients be tested for COVID-19 before each chemotherapy cycle?
Authors: Yekedüz Emre , Utkan Güngör , Ürün Yüksel
Published: January 2021

Cancer patients under active chemotherapy are more vulnerable to coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). There are still some controversies regarding routine polymerase chain reaction testing of asymptomatic cancer patients before chemotherapy cycles. Despite a lack of data, Al-Shamsi et al. showed higher COVID-19 positivity rate among asymptomatic cancer patients. Furthermore, mortality rate was higher in this group of patients. There is no high evidence-based recommendation from the cancer societies for testing asymptomatic patients before each chemotherapy cycle. In this commentary, we assessed the current publications and guidelines regarding this issue.
Epithelioid Sarcoma Arising in a Long-Term Survivor of an Atypical Teratoid/Rhabdoid Tumor in a Patient With Rhabdoid Tumor Predisposition Syndrome
Authors: Baker Tiffany G , Lyons Michael J , Leddy Lee , Parham David M , Welsh Cynthia T
Published: January 2021

Rhabdoid tumor predisposition syndrome (RTPS) is defined as the presence of a SMARCB1 or SMARCA4 genetic aberration in a patient with malignant rhabdoid tumor. Patients with RTPS are more likely to present with synchronous or metachronous rhabdoid tumors. Based on the current state of rhabdoid tumor taxonomy, these diagnoses are based largely on patient demographics, anatomic location of disease, and immunohistochemistry, despite their nearly identical histologic and immunohistochemical profiles. Thus, the true distinction between such tumors remains a diagnostic challenge. Central nervous system atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare, aggressive, primarily pediatric malignancy with variable histologic features and a well documented association with loss of SMARCB1 expression. Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare soft tissue tumor arising in patients of all ages and characteristically staining for both mesenchymal and epithelial immunohistochemical markers while usually demonstrating loss of SMARCB1 expression. To our knowledge we herein present the first documented case of a patient with RTPS who presented with metachronous AT/RT and ES.
Predictors of Vaping Behavior Change in Young Adults Using the Transtheoretical Model: A Multi-Country Study
Authors: Martinasek Mary , Tamulevicius Nauris , Gibson-Young Linda , McDaniel Justin , Moss Sarah J , Pfeffer Ines , Lipski Briana
Published: January 2021

Electronic nicotine products remain popular among college students. These products contain heavy metals, carcinogens and the addictive substance nicotine. By understanding where students are in their behavior change can help to determine and focus messages and campaigns. The aim of this study was to assess predictors of the Transtheoretical model in college-aged vaping. This study consisted of an online/Ipad delivery of a voluntary survey to 1249 young adults/college students at 5 universities (International and within the U.S.). Data was analyzed using Stata. Regression analysis was performed to assess predictors of the stages in the Transtheoretical Model of behavior change. Our study found that women tended to be further along in the stages of change as compared to their male counterparts. Additionally, the older students were more likely to be in maintenance stage as compared to the younger students. The students who vaped longer tended to not have advance into any of the stages of change besides precontemplation. Understanding where students are in the stages of change can help to inform behavioral message campaigns enabling more focused targeting of messages and efforts to reduce consumption. Electronic nicotine products are highly prevalent on college campuses, both nationally and internationally. The nicotine is addictive and may result in less of a desire or ability to quit as young adults age.
Effect of applying inclusion and exclusion criteria of phase III clinical trials to multiple sclerosis patients in routine clinical care
Authors: Jalusic Kris Oliver , Ellenberger David , Rommer Paulus , Stahmann Alexander , Zettl Uwe , Berger Klaus
Published: January 2021

Background:

Newly approved, drug-modifying therapies are associated with still unknown adverse events, although clinical trials leading to approval have strict inclusion and exclusion criteria and analyse safety and efficacy.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to analyse the eligibility of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated in routine care into the phase III clinical trial of the respective drug.

Methods:

In total, 3577 MS patients with 4312 therapies were analysed. Patients with primary-progressive MS were excluded. Inclusion and exclusion criteria of phase III clinical trials in relapsing–remitting MS were adopted and subsequently applied. A comparison in clinical and sociodemographic characteristics was made between patient who met the criteria and those who did not.

Results:

83% of registered patients would not have been eligible to the respective phase III clinical trial. Relapse was the single most frequent criterion not fulfilled (74.7%), followed by medication history (21.2%).

Conclusion:

The majority of MS patients treated in routine care would not have met clinical trials criteria. Thus, the efficacy and safety of therapies in clinical trials can differ from those in the real world. Broader phase III inclusion criteria would increase their eligibility and contribute to a better generalizability of the results in clinical trials.
Just like the others: Party differences, perception, and satisfaction with democracy
Authors: Ridge Hannah M
Published: January 2021

A robust literature on citizens’ satisfaction with democracy argues that system satisfaction is based on the policy outcomes that citizens anticipate from electoral results. A tacit assumption in this research is that there are differences between the parties and that citizens are aware of the ideological and preference diversity in their political environment. Some citizens, however, fail to perceive these differences. Using a multi-national set of post-election surveys, regression analysis, and propensity score matching, perceived party difference is shown to substantially impact citizens’ systemic satisfaction. Those who believe all parties are the same are substantially less satisfied with the functioning of their democracy. The negative effect of perceived party homogeneity is mitigated by closeness to a political party and sense of representation. By manipulating the public’s reserve of democratic satisfaction, this perception of party homogeneity threatens democratic stability.
Are female business travelers willing to travel during COVID-19? An exploratory study
Authors: Liu-Lastres Bingjie , Mirehie Mona , Cecil Amanda
Published: January 2021

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the tourism industry. A successful recovery from the pandemic requires a clear understanding of the ‘new normal’, including tourists’ perceived risks, safety perceptions, attitudes, and willingness to travel. Guided by the Risk Perception Attitude (RPA) Framework, this study investigated female business travelers’ risk perception attitude and willingness to travel in the COVID-19 climate. This study segmented the sample into four distinct RPA groups, including the Avoidance, Proactive, Responsive, and Indifference groups. These groups differ in some demographic characteristics and the strength of willingness to travel. Findings also showed that anxiety, perceived safety, and consumer confidence mediate the relationships between the sample’s RPA and willingness to travel, but the exact relationship varies by groups. Finally, this paper discussed the theoretical contributions and practical implications of this study.
Neither too early nor too late: Goldilocks litigation in the climate space
Authors: QC Jolyon Maugham , Crook Gabriella De Souza
Published: January 2021

This opinion discusses Good Law Project’s approach to climate change litigation. It argues that the law has an important role in achieving positive change in the climate change space but that ‘successful’ legal outcomes are not the only extent of that role.
On the politics of discomfort
Authors: Chadwick Rachelle
Published: January 2021

This article engages the politics of discomfort as a critical but neglected dimension of feminist methodologies and research praxis. Discomfort is explored as a ‘sweaty concept’ that opens space for transformative praxis and the emergence of feminist forms of knowing, being and resisting. I theorise discomfort as an epistemic and interpretive resource and a lively actant in research encounters, fieldwork and analytic and theory-praxis spaces. Building on the work of Clare Hemmings and Sara Ahmed, I trace discomfort as an affective intensity that matters for opening up resistant and anti-colonial feminist research practices and modes of knowledge production. Starting, and staying, with discomfortis theorised as a form of resistance to the reiteration of comfortable and normative truths and ‘wilful ignorances’. Weaving together the work of postqualitative and postcolonial feminist theorists, the sticky praxis of discomfort is conceptualised as involving a number of research strategies, including: (1) engaging with ‘gut feelings’ and (2) embracing interpretive hesitancy. In moving beyond an idealisation of empathy as the central affective principle underlying feminist research praxis, this article explores the epistemic and political salience of discomfort as affective intensity, ‘sweaty concept’ and potentially transformative interpretive resource.
Cross-Cultural Differences in Student Attitudes Toward Intimate Partner Violence: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zark Laura , Satyen Lata
Published: January 2021

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major human rights and public health problem which occurs at exceptionally high rates among tertiary students. Attitudes toward IPV are increasingly being recognized as a key risk factor for IPV and targeted in IPV prevention programs on college and university campuses. Understanding the influence of culture on attitudes toward IPV is necessary to change attitudes supportive of IPV and ultimately reduce the occurrence of IPV in the student population. This review sought to systematically identify, appraise, and synthesize research studies examining cross-cultural differences in attitudes toward IPV among tertiary students. A comprehensive search of nine electronic databases was conducted from inception to 15 May 2019. Studies were required to have compared attitudes toward IPV (e.g., acceptance or justification of IPV) among two or more cultural groups (based on country, race, or ethnicity) of tertiary students. Eighteen articles met eligibility criteria for the review, representing over 6,800 students. The studies provide considerable evidence that student attitudes toward IPV differ across cultures. Students in the United States and ethnic majority students in the United States generally showed less accepting attitudes toward IPV than their counterparts in other countries and ethnic minority groups. The particular contexts in which IPV is justified may reflect cultural values and norms. The findings have important implications for prevention and intervention strategies aimed at improving attitudes toward IPV among tertiary students.
Teen Dating Violence Help-Seeking Intentions and Behaviors Among Ethnically and Racially Diverse Youth: A Systematic Review
Authors: Padilla-Medina Diana M. , Williams Jessica R. , Ravi Kristen , Ombayo Bernadette , Black Beverly M.
Published: January 2021

Teen dating violence (TDV) affects millions of youth in the United States and globally each year. A systematic review was conducted to examine the help-seeking intentions and behaviors of youth between the ages of 12 and 19 based on racial and ethnic differences. Considering the high prevalence of TDV among racially and ethnically diverse youth, previous systematic reviews have recommended that future scholarship address help-seeking intentions and behaviors among racially and ethnically diverse youth. The methodologies and results of TDV and help-seeking studies published since 2000 were reviewed and analyzed. A systematic search of peer-reviewed journal articles published in English was conducted using an electronic search. The rigorous search identified 10 studies that addressed help-seeking intentions and behaviors and racial and ethnic differences in youth meeting eligibility requirements. The search yielded few studies, indicating a need to conduct future research in this area. The strength of the studies’ methodologies limited generalizability and external validity. The studies primarily addressed differences among African American and Latino youth. Youth relied on informal sources of support, with youth from both groups preferring to seek help from parents and friends. Mistrust, lack of closeness, and feelings of mistrust, shame, and embarrassment informed youths’ help-seeking intentions and behaviors. Racially and ethnically specific factors such as negative perceptions of father figures, familism, acculturation, and traditional gender role notions were identified as barriers to help-seeking. As part of appraising and synthesizing the evidence, recommendations for research, practice, and policy are presented.
Nursing Procedures for the Prevention and Treatment of Mucositis Induced by Cancer Therapies: Clinical Practice Guideline Based on an Interdisciplinary Consensus Process and a Systematic Literature Search
Authors: Steinmann Diana , Babadağ Savaş Burcu , Felber Sabine , Joy Sosamma , Mertens Isabelle , Cramer Holger , Paul Anna , Layer Monika , Klafke Nadja , Stolz Regina , Heyder Ute , Neuberger Petra , Winkler Marcela , Idler Christel , Heine Rolf , Kaschdailewitsch Elke , John Heike , Schmeling Beeke , Zielke Tatjana , Horneber Markus , Witt Claudia M. , Voiss Petra
Published: January 2021

Background:

Patients with cancer receiving tumor therapy often suffer from oral mucositis.

Objectives:

The aim of this project was to summarize experiences with nursing procedures by experts in integrative oncology and to establish recommendations for nursing interventions that can prevent or cure mucositis.

Methods:

The study design was an interdisciplinary consensus process based on a systematic literature search.

Results:

The panel discussed and agreed on 19 nursing procedures, which included mouthwashes, such as teas, supplements, oil applications, and different kinds of ice cubes to suck, as well as flaxseed solution, propolis, and mare milk. Twelve interventions were classified as effective, with effectiveness for OraLife, propolis, sea buckthorn pulp oil, marshmallow root tea also for xerostomia, Helago chamomile oil, mare milk, and Saliva Natura rated as highly effective in clinical experience. In the systematic literature search, a total of 12 out of 329 randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses on chamomile (n = 3), Calendula (n = 1) and sage (n = 1), propolis (n = 2), and sucking ice cubes (cryotherapy; n = 5) met all inclusion criteria. Trial evidence for effectiveness in oral mucositis was revealed for propolis and cryotherapy.

Conclusions:

The current evidence supports the use of some nursing procedures (f.e. propolis for 2 and 3 grade mucositis) for improving oral mucositis during cancer therapies. There is still a need to define general clinical practice guidelines for the supportive treatment of mucositis, as well as for more interdisciplinary research in this area.
Inter-proteomic posttranslational modifications of the SARS-CoV-2 and the host proteins ‒ A new frontier
Authors: Mishra Suresh , Bassi Geetika , Nyomba BL Grégoire
Published: January 2021

Posttranslational modification of proteins, which include both the enzymatic alterations of protein side chains and main-chain peptide bond connectivity, is a fundamental regulatory process that is crucial for almost every aspects of cell biology, including the virus-host cell interaction and the SARS-CoV-2 infection. The posttranslational modification of proteins has primarily been studied in cells and tissues in an intra-proteomic context (where both substrates and enzymes are part of the same species). However, the inter-proteomic posttranslational modifications of most of the SARS-CoV-2 proteins by the host enzymes and vice versa are largely unexplored in virus pathogenesis and in the host immune response. It is now known that the structural spike (S) protein of the SARS-CoV-2 undergoes proteolytic priming by the host serine proteases for entry into the host cells, and N- and O-glycosylation by the host cell enzymes during virion packaging, which enable the virus to spread. New evidence suggests that both SARS-CoV-2 and the host proteins undergo inter-proteomic posttranslational modifications, which play roles in virus pathogenesis and infection-induced immune response by hijacking the host cell signaling. The purpose of this minireview is to bring attention of the scientific community to recent cutting-edge discoveries in this understudied area. It is likely that a better insight into the molecular mechanisms involved may open new research directions, and thereby contribute to novel therapeutic modality development against the SARS-CoV-2. Here we briefly discuss the rationale and touch upon some unanswered questions in this context, especially those that require attention from the scientific community.
A Novel Subxiphoid Approach for Bilateral Internal Thoracic Artery Harvesting
Authors: Amirjamshidi Hossein , Sauer Jude S. , Barrus Bryan , Knight Peter A. , Prasad Sunil M.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Bilateral internal thoracic artery (BITA) bypass can enable more complete arterial revascularization procedures. Minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) can offer significant patient benefits. New minimally invasive technology for sternal retraction and tissue manipulation is needed to enable ergonomic and reliable minimally invasive ITA harvesting. The goal of this research was to develop technology and techniques, along with experimental testing and training models, for a sternal-sparing approach to in situ BITA harvesting through a small subxiphoid access site.

Methods

This study focused on optimizing custom equipment and methods for subxiphoid BITA harvesting initially in a porcine model (19 pig carcasses, 36 ITAs) and subsequently in 7 cadavers (14 ITAs).

Results

Fifty consecutive ITAs were successfully harvested using this remote access approach. The last 20 ITA specimens harvested from the porcine model were explanted and measured; the average length of the free ITA grafts was 12.8 ± 0.9 cm (range 10.8 to 14.2 cm) with a mean time of 23.3 ± 5.2 minutes (range 13 to 25 minutes) for each harvest.

Conclusions

Early results demonstrate that both ITAs can be reliably harvested in a skeletonized fashion in situ through sternal-sparing, small subxiphoid access in 2 experimental models. This innovative approach warrants further exploration toward facilitating complete arterial revascularization and the further adoption of minimally invasive coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Endovascular treatment of type 1 and type 4 non-saccular aneurysms of cerebral arteries – a single-Centre experience
Authors: Borota Ljubisa , Nyberg Christoffer , Lenell Samuel , Semnic Robert , Mahmoud Ehab
Published: January 2021

Aim of the study

The aim of this study was to evaluate our results regarding treatment options, complications, and outcomes in patients with non-saccular aneurysms of cerebral arteries belonging to type 1 and type 4 according to Mizutani’s classification.

Methods

A total of 26 aneurysms in 26 patients were treated between 2014 and 2019. There were 13 males (mean age 42.77 ± 11.73 years) and 13 females (mean age 50.84 ± 9.37 years). In 23 cases the onset was haemorrhagic and in three cases non-haemorrhagic. A combination of conventional stents and coils was used in 10 cases, conventional stents and flow diverters in three cases, flow diverters and coils in five cases, and flow diverters only were used in eight cases. Radiological results of treatment were assessed after eight months and clinical after one year.

Results

In 24 patients, aneurysms were occluded at the end of the follow-up period. An iatrogenic dissection and two haemorrhagic complications were registered. In three cases, parent arteries were occluded due to re-growth of the aneurysm, which caused middle cerebral artery infarction in one case. A favourable clinical outcome was registered in 19, patients, and non-favourable in five. Two patients died in the early postoperative period due to extensive damage to the brain parenchyma caused by initial bleeding.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that treatment of type 1 and type 4 non-saccular aneurysms with various combination of stents and flow diverters, with or without coils, is promising, although very challenging and technically demanding.
On pluralist mythscapes
Authors: Toth Mano
Published: January 2021

In this article, I outline a possible way to think about the ‘mythscape’, the discursive space within which identity-constitutive mythologies are articulated, in a pluralist and pragmatic philosophical framework. Instead of concentrating on the content of particular narratives, as previous attempts in this vein have done, I explain a way to organise the mythscape which adheres to the principles of a pluralist democracy. I discuss the role of the state and its education system with respect to myths. I argue that a pluralist mythscape should be based on acknowledgement rather than recognition, and it should be aided by critical and sentimental education.
Analysis and Forecasts of the Demand for Imported Wine in China
Authors: Liu Anyu , Song Haiyan
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study is to investigate the long-term determinants of China’s imported wine demand and to forecast wine imports from 2019 to 2023 using econometric methods. Auto-regressive distributed lag models are developed based on neoclassical economic demand theory to investigate the long-term determinants of China’s demand for imported bottled, bulk, and sparkling wine from the top five countries of origin. The empirical results demonstrate that income is the most important determinant of China’s imported wine demand, and that price only plays a significant role in a few markets. Substitute and complement effects are identified between wines from different countries of origin and between imported wines and other liquids. China’s imported wine demand is expected to maintain its rapid growth over the forecast period. Bottled wine will continue to dominate China’s imported wine market. France will have the largest market share in the bottled wine market, Spain will be the largest provider of bulk wine, and Italy will hold the same position for sparkling wine. This is the first study to use a single equation with the general to specific method rather than a system of equations to estimate and forecast China’s demand for imported bottled, bulk, and sparkling wines from different countries of origin. The more specific model setting for each country of origin improves forecasting accuracy.
Episodic and Thematic Framing Effects on the Attribution of Responsibility: The Effects of Personalized and Contextualized News on Perceptions of Individual and Political Responsibility for Causing the Economic Crisis
Authors: Boukes Mark
Published: January 2021

The effects of episodic and thematic framing on the attribution of responsibility for societal problems have previously been investigated with experimental methods and mostly tested general effects on the public. The current work, instead, investigates episodic framing’s effect by linking a large-scale content analysis to data of a panel survey ( n = 3,270) and assesses the conditionality upon citizens’ individual political ideology. It does so with a focus on perceptions of responsibility for the 2009–2015 economic crisis and within the context of the Netherlands. Results demonstrate that exposure to episodically framed crisis news caused a decline in the attribution of responsibility to individual citizens, whereas thematic framing did not affect this. Framing effects on the attribution of political responsibility, instead, were conditional on political ideology: Episodic framing decreased the attribution of political responsibility, whereas thematic framing increased the attribution of responsibility to political actors, but both effects occurred primarily among citizens with a right-wing political-economic ideology. Accordingly, we add an explanation for the inconsistency of effect directions in previously published research on the effects that episodic and thematic framing may have on responsibility attributions.
The art and science of drug titration
Authors: Caffrey Aisling R. , Borrelli Eric P.
Published: January 2021

A “one-size-fits-all” approach has been the standard for drug dosing, in particular for agents with a wide therapeutic index. The scientific principles of drug titration, most commonly used for medications with a narrow therapeutic index, are to give the patient adequate and effective treatment, at the lowest dose possible, with the aim of minimizing unnecessary medication use and side effects. The art of drug titration involves the interplay of scientific drug titration principles with the clinical expertise of the healthcare provider, and an individualized, patient-centered partnership between the provider and the patient to review the delicate balance of perceived benefits and risks from both perspectives. Drug titration may occur as up-, down-, or cross-titration depending on whether the goal is to reach or maintain a therapeutic outcome, decrease the risk of adverse effects, or prevent withdrawal/discontinuation syndromes or recurrence of disease. Drug titration introduces additional complexities surrounding the conduct of clinical trials and real-world studies, confounding our understanding of the true effect of medications. In clinical practice, wide variations in titration schedules may exist due to a lack of evidence and consensus on titration approaches that achieve an optimal benefit-harm profile. Further, drug titration may be challenging for patients to follow, resulting in suboptimal adherence and may require increased healthcare-related visits and coordination of care amongst providers. Despite the challenges associated with drug titration, it is a personalized approach to drug dosing that blends science with art, and with supportive real-world outcomes-based evidence, can be effective for optimizing pharmacotherapeutic outcomes and improving drug safety.
Online Engagement Between Opposing Political Protest Groups via Social Media is Linked to Physical Violence of Offline Encounters
Authors: Gallacher John D. , Heerdink Marc W. , Hewstone Miles
Published: January 2021

The rise of the Internet and social media has allowed individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, and opinions to communicate with one another in an open and largely unstructured way. One important question is whether the nature of online engagements between groups relates to the nature of encounters between these groups in the real world. We analyzed online conversations that occurred between members of protest groups from opposite sides of the political spectrum, obtained from Facebook event pages used to organize upcoming political protests and rallies in the United States and the United Kingdom and the occurrence of violence during these protests and rallies. Using natural language processing and text analysis, we show that increased engagement between groups online is associated with increased violence when these groups met in the real world. The level of engagement between groups taking place online is substantial, and can be characterized as negative, brief, and low in integrative complexity. These findings suggest that opposing groups may use unstructured online environments to engage with one another in hostile ways. This may reflect a worsening of relationships, in turn explaining the observed increases in physical violence offline. These findings raise questions as to whether unstructured online communication is compatible with positive intergroup contact, and highlights the role that the Internet might play in wider issues of extremism and radicalization.
Below the Radar: Private Groups, Locked Platforms, and Ephemeral Content—Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Boccia Artieri Giovanni , Brilli Stefano , Zurovac Elisabetta
Published: January 2021

This special issue of Social Media + Society originates from the first AoIR Flashpoint Symposium, entitled “Below the Radar: Private Groups, Locked Platforms and Ephemeral Content.” The aim of this conference was to investigate platform-driven changes and emerging practices of everyday-life content production occurring “below the radar” of internet research, or outside of previous standards of data visibility and accessibility on which most internet studies have been based over the last decade. In the current context, online spaces seem to be heading toward more circumscribed and unsteady forms of publicness, which contrast with the platform affordances upon which the theorization of networked publics has been built. Private groups, locked platforms, and ephemeral contents are some of the challenges that require the development of new perspectives and research tools capable of adapting to this shifting environment. In this introduction, we will illustrate how the theme of “below the radar” has evolved since the initial call thanks to the confrontation with the researchers who participated in the conference, and this special issue, and we will introduce the nine articles that make up the collection. These articles, which combine different research disciplines and techniques, provide a map of some of the most urgent theoretical, ethical, and methodological issues concerning the current transformations of the visibility regimes of online social action.
Internet Memes as Partial Stories: Identifying Political Narratives in Coronavirus Memes
Authors: de Saint Laurent Constance , Glăveanu Vlad P. , Literat Ioana
Published: January 2021

This article advances a narrative approach to internet memes conceptualized as partial stories that reflect, capture, and contribute to wider storylines. One key difficulty in studying memes as stories rests in the fact that narrative analysis often focuses on plot at the expense of roles and characters. Building on narrative psychology and, in particular, transactional and linguistic types of analysis, we propose a typology of character roles—Persecutor, Victim, Hero, and Fool—that is useful to uncover scenarios within memes and, thus, reveal their intrinsic narrative structure. We apply this framework to the analysis of political narratives embedded within 241 coronavirus memes systematically sampled from Reddit’s r/CoronavirusMemes between January and May 2020. Five main scenarios or storylines emerged from this analysis, the first four depicting a more or less common narrative of protest against the incompetence and/or malevolence of the political class—from Donald Trump and the Republicans in the United States to Boris Johnson and the Conservatives in the United Kingdom and, finally, to politicians in Asia such as Xi Jinping and Kim Jong-un—while the fifth scenario brought to the fore social categories made salient by the pandemic and focused especially on the relation between people who respect and don’t respect measures. The psychological, social, and political implications of these scenarios in relation to the pandemic are discussed, as well as the broader consequences of studying memes as narrative structures.
Clinical characteristics and cardiovascular implications of the dead patients for COVID-19
Authors: Falasca Katia , Ucciferri Claudio , Brandimarte Alessandro , Auricchio Antonio , Pontolillo Michela , Caiazzo Luca , Vecchiet Jacopo
Published: January 2021

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by 2019 novel coronavirus (named SARS-CoV-2), has become a global pandemic. Aged population with cardiovascular diseases is usually more susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection with an increased risk of severe complications and elevated case-fatality rate. Despite of several researches about COVID-19, cardiovascular implications related to this infection still remain largely unclear. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical characteristics of dead patients with COVID-19. We enrolled all patients with more than 50 years of age with laboratory confirmed COVID-19, admitted to infectious clinical diseases PO SS Annunziata of Chieti (Italy) from March 2020 to April 2020 who died during hospitalization. Demographics, underlying comorbidities, clinical symptoms and signs, laboratory results, computed tomography of the chest, treatment measures, and outcome data were collected. We enrolled eight patients, the age was 82 ± 9.7 years, four female and four male. All patients had comorbidity, such as hypertension (7 [87.5%]), diabetes (1 [12.5%]), and heart disease (6 [75%]). Common symptoms included fever [8 (100%)], dry cough (1[12.56%]), and dyspnea (3 [37.5%]). All patients [8 (100%)] showed local and/or bilateral patchy shadowing on chest computed tomography that is the typical radiological finding in COVID-19. Lymphopenia was observed in seven patients (87.5%). All patients showed elevated troponin and prolongation of the QTc interval ( p < 0.05). In this study we demonstrated that in SARS-CoV-2 infection, the deaths occurred in the non-ICU population with more than 50 years are related to cardiac causes. In our cases elongation of QTc and alteration in troponin are present in all patients who died and could represent a data to better stratify the population at risk. More detailed research on cardiovascular involvement in COVID-19 patients with sudden deaths showed a predictive role of troponin and QTc elongation.
Toward Understanding Social Needs Among Primary Care Patients With Uncontrolled Diabetes
Authors: Chambers Earle C. , McAuliff Kathleen E. , Heller Caroline G. , Fiori Kevin , Hollingsworth Nicole
Published: January 2021

Introduction/Objectives:

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to major health complications, and significantly contributes to diabetes-related morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Few studies have examined the relationship between unmet social needs and diabetes control among predominantly Black and Hispanic patient populations.

Methods:

In a large urban hospital system in the Bronx, NY, 5846 unique patients with diabetes seen at a primary care visit between April 2018 and December 2019 completed a social needs screener. Measures included diabetes control (categorized as Hemoglobin (Hb) A1c <9.0 as controlled and Hb A1C ≥9.0 as uncontrolled), social needs (10-item screen), and demographic covariates, including age, sex, race/ethnicity, insurance status, percentage of block-group poverty, patient’s preferred language, and the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index.

Results:

Twenty-two percent (22%) of the patient sample had at least 1 unmet social need, and the most prevalent unmet social needs were housing issues (including housing quality and insecurity), food insecurity, and lack of healthcare transportation. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant relationship between social needs and uncontrolled diabetes, with more social needs indicating a greater likelihood of uncontrolled diabetes (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) for ≥3 needs: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.26, 2.00). Of the patients with most frequently occurring unmet social needs, lack of healthcare transportation (AOR: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.22, 1.95) and food insecurity (AOR: 1.50, 95% CI: 1.19, 1.89) had the greatest likelihood of having uncontrolled diabetes, after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusion:

Unmet social needs appear to be linked to a greater likelihood of uncontrolled diabetes. Implications for healthcare systems to screen and address social needs for patients with diabetes are discussed.
The Presence of Preoperative Depression Symptoms Does Not Hinder Recovery After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Guo Eric W. , Cross Austin G. , Hessburg Luke , Koolmees Dylan , Bernstein David N. , Elhage Kareem G. , Moutzouros Vasilios , Makhni Eric C.
Published: January 2021

Background:

The current literature suggests a link between psychosocial factors and poor surgical outcomes in patients with musculoskeletal complaints. However, there remains a limited body of literature examining the effect of depression on outcomes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Purpose:

The primary purpose of this study was to compare postoperative function patient-reported outcome scores between patients with and patients without preoperative depression symptoms undergoing ACLR. Secondary goals included comparing postoperative pain interference and depression scores between the 2 groups.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

In this single-center retrospective cohort study, pediatric and adult patients who underwent ACLR were included. The Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression (D) domain scores of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) were collected preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Patients were separated into clinical depression (CD) and no clinical depression (NCD) groups based on their preoperative PROMIS-D score.

Results:

A total of 82 patients undergoing ACLR were included in this study. Of these, 19 (23%) patients met criteria for the CD group. Preoperatively, the CD group reported lower mean PROMIS-PF (33.3 vs 39.7, respectively; P = .001), higher PROMIS-PI (65.7 vs 59.2, respectively; P <.01), and higher PROMIS-D (62.4 vs 45.1, respectively; P < .001) scores than the NCD group. At 12 months postoperatively, the mean PROMIS-PF scores for the CD and NCD groups were 52.1 and 56.7, respectively ( P = .12). The mean 12-month postoperative PROMIS-PI scores for the CD and NCD groups were 52.3 and 47.4, respectively ( P = .04). At 12 months after ACLR, there was a substantial improvement in PROMIS-PF and PROMIS-PI scores for both the CD (delta = +18.8 and –13.4, respectively) and NCD (delta = +17.0 and –11.8) groups.

Conclusion:

There was a significant improvement, which exceeded currently accepted minimal clinically important difference values, in PROMIS-PF scores at 12 months after ACLR, regardless of the presence of preoperative depression symptoms. These data suggest that having depression symptoms preoperatively does not significantly hinder a patient’s recovery after ACLR.
Concussion-Reporting Behavior in Rugby: A National Survey of Rugby Union Players in the United States
Authors: Miller J. Chance , Stein Kenneth Shubin , Moon Tyler J. , Trofa David P. , Kerr Hamish , Bottiglieri Thomas , Ahmad C.S.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Rugby is the fastest growing team sport in the United States for male and female athletes. It is a contact/collision sport with an injury risk profile that includes concussions.

Purpose:

To examine the prevalence of concussions in male and female rugby players in the United States and to characterize behaviors around reporting concussions that could be a target for prevention and treatment efforts.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

An online survey distributed to active members on the USA Rugby membership list was used to examine self-reported concussions in male and female athletes. Concussion-reporting behaviors and return to play after a concussion were also explored. Statistical analysis was used to compare male with female athletes and report differences, with years of experience as a dependent variable.

Results:

The proportion of athletes with a history of at least 1 concussion was 61.9% in all respondents. Of those who reported a concussion, 50.8% reported the concussion during the game or practice in which it occurred, and 57.6% reported at least 1 concussion to a qualified medical provider. Overall, 27.7% of participants who reported ≥1 rugby-related concussion in our survey noted that at least 1 of these concussions was not formally reported. The most commonly cited reasons for not reporting a concussion included not thinking that it was a serious injury, not knowing that it was a concussion at the time, and not wanting to be pulled out of the game or practice. Additionally, 61.0% of athletes did not engage in recommended return-to-play protocols after their most recent rugby-related concussion.

Conclusion:

US rugby union athletes may not report concussions to medical personnel or follow return-to-play protocols guided by medical advice. This could result from a lack of education on concussion recognition and the risks associated with continued play after a concussion as well as limited access to health care. Further education efforts focusing on the identification of concussions, removal from play, and return-to-play protocols are necessary in the US rugby union population.