bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy Use in the Femoro-Popliteal Segment: Considerations From an Expert Pan-European Panel Regarding Best-Care Practice
Authors: Saratzis Athanasios , Jane Messeder Sarah , Thulasidasan Narayanan , Alejandre Lafont Enrique , Bonvini Stefano , Bosiers Michel , Coscas Raphael , Davies Robert , Del Canto Peruyera Pablo , Elias Noory , Fazzini Stefano , Garriboli Luca , Goyault Gilles , Howard Dominic PJ , Huasen Bella , Isernia Giacomo , Lakshminarayan Raghu , Patel Ashish , Patel Rafiuddin , Patrone Lorenzo , Portou Mark , Rammos Christos , Ruffino Maria Antonella , Sirvent Marc , Sritharan Kaji , Vijaynagar Badri , von Stempel Conrad , Zanabili Amer
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Produce expert recommendations regarding the optimal use of Shockwave intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) when treating femoro-popliteal steno-occlusive peripheral artery disease (PAD), guiding operators to use Shockwave IVL.

Materials and Methods:

A modified 3-step Delphi process was used to gain consensus surrounding preoperative/intraoperative/postoperative considerations when using Shockwave IVL for femoro-popliteal PAD. This included a structured survey, focus-group (with qualitative thematic analysis of views expressed), and final confirmatory round; participants were recruited across Europe including the United Kingdom/Switzerland.

Results:

Following a review to inform an online survey, 25 experts took part in a survey (5 European countries, 2023), followed by a focus-group (15 participants), 9 interviews, and final confirmatory round. A list of recommendations was prepared where at least moderate-level or high-level agreement was reached (≥70% participants agreeing). The recommendations relate to the optimal preoperative imaging, preoperative preparation(s), intraoperative imaging and use of adjuncts, as well as postoperative course, when using Shockwave IVL.

Conclusion:

A list of expert recommendations is provided guiding the optimal use of Shockwave IVL in femoro-popliteal PAD. This will help operators achieve better clinical outcomes.

Clinical Impact

This pan-European panel of experts using intravascular lithotripsy in routine peripheral arterial disease endovascular practice has provided important insights into best care practices before, during, and after such procedures. Several recommendations have been produced based on a structured consensus process to guide clinicians globally. This will improve and standardise the use of this technology in the femoro-popliteal arterial segment.
Transvenous embolization of cerebrospinal fluid-venous fistulas: A comprehensive technical video guide
Authors: Oushy Soliman , Borg Nicholas , Brinjikji Waleed
Published: August 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-venous fistulas necessitate a comprehensive understanding of spinal venous anatomy for successful embolization. 1 This video details the essential technical and anatomical nuances of CSF-venous fistula embolization at various spinal levels, including the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine. Precise microcatheter navigation, guided by a detailed understanding of spinal venous anatomy, is crucial for reaching the fistula site and successful treatment. Embolization typically focuses on the foraminal vein, paraspinal vein, and lateral epidural plexus, aiming to create a comprehensive liquid embolic plug. 2 As experience with this procedure grows, continued refinement of techniques and exploration of optimal access routes will further enhance success rates.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the relative safety and efficacy of treating lower extremity deep vein thrombosis via pharmacomechanical thrombectomy and catheter-directed thrombolysis
Authors: Tian Zhong , Han Hao , Tian Zhilong , Sun Pengcheng , Qin Ruihao , Yuan Fukang
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of pharmacomechanical thrombectomy and catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) as approaches to treating deep venous thrombosis of lower extremities (LEDVT).

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, Wanfang, Embase, Chinese Science and Technology Journal, Cochrane, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases were systematically searched for relevant articles published through October 2023, after which appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to screen out relevant articles. Review Manager 5.4.1 was used to extract key data from these studies, and pooled analyses were conducted based on mead difference (MD) or odds ratio (OR) values and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). Study quality was assessed with the Newcastle–Ottawa scale.

Trial registration

This study has been registered at INPLASY.COM (No. INPLASY2023100075).

Results

In total, 31 relevant studies enrolling 2413 patients were included in this meta-analysis, with 1184 and 1229 patients in the AngioJet and CDT groups, respectively. These analyses revealed that the AngioJet group exhibited significantly higher rates of early postoperative deep vein patency (MD = 7.73, 95% CI (3.29, 12.17), p = .0006) and affected limb symptom improvement (MD = 6.31, 95% CI (1.82,10.80), p = .006) relative to the CDT group, whereas no differences in grade II or III thrombus clearance rates (OR = 1.30, 95% CI (0.95, 1.77), p = .10) or changes in thigh circumference before and after treatment (MD = 0.01, 95% CI (−0.80, 0.83), p = .97) were observed. The AngioJet group also exhibited lower urokinase doses (MD = −145.33, 95% CI (−164.28,126.38), p < .00001), shorter thrombolysis time (MD = −2.35, 95% CI(−2.80, −1.90), p < .00001), a less prolonged hospital stay (MD = −3.13, 95% CI(−3.81, −2.45), p < .00001), lower rates of PTS incidence (OR = 0.56, 95% CI(0.36, 0.88), p = .01), and reduced complication rates (OR = 0.51, 95% CI(0.31, 0.83), p = .0007).

Conclusion

Studies published to date suggest that relative to CDT treatment, pharmacomechanical thrombectomy is associated with improved thrombus clearance, fewer complications, and lower complication rates in LEDVT patients, underscoring the safety and efficacy of this therapeutic strategy.
Elite tennis player's perceptions of coaching effectiveness
Authors: Zhu Qiqi , Bloom Gordon A. , Xu Chong , Alexander-Urquhart Danielle , Guo Liya , Zhu Yu
Published: August 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of six elite Chinese tennis players and their perspectives of coaching effectiveness within their sport. We collected data using two approaches: semi-structured interviews and player documents (e.g., detailed biographies, competition experience, and performance statistics). Data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis to identify the coaches’ knowledge and behaviors that elite Chinese players considered to be effective and ineffective within the training and competitive landscape. We constructed two overarching themes to represent elite tennis player's perceptions regarding coaching effectiveness: (1) perceived coaching roles (i.e., the coach as a planner, teacher, and strategist), and (2) coaching as a social phenomenon (i.e., interpersonal styles and networks, effective and ineffective behaviors). Theoretically, this study aligns with the 3 + 1Cs model of the coach–athlete relationship and enriches the literature on coaching effectiveness in elite tennis. Practically, this study underscores the value of coaching knowledge and behaviors in shaping player's competitive performance and sociopsychological abilities and identifies recommendations for coaches and players to develop harmonious and meaningful relationships within the elite tennis context.
Predictors of match performance in the South African Rugby Union Women's Premier Division
Authors: Sewry Nicola , MacMillan Candice , Maree Willie , Readhead Clint , Cantwell Lynne , Jordaan Esme , Swanevelder Sonja
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Performance indicators in women's rugby union are under-researched. The aim of this study was to describe the match activities and determine the predictors for winning/losing and points difference in the South African Rugby Union (SARU) Women's Premier Division competition.

Methods

During the 2021 and 2022 seasons, SARU-coded matches included 33 indicators (including attacking, defensive, set plays, and error categories) which were analysed for two outcome variables: winning/losing and points difference (points for MINUS points against).

Results

The results of the study showed that for winning compared to losing, tries (OR = 6.48; p = 0.0001), goal kicking success % (OR = 1.03; p = 0.0245), and dominant tackles % (OR = 1.45; p = 0.0333) increased the odds of winning, whilst yellow cards decreased the odds (OR = 0.27; p = 0.0199). For points difference, Factor 1 (OR = 1.016) including variables related to clean breaks, tries and conversions thereof, were predictive of a larger points difference, whilst Factor 6 (positive tackles, lineout wins; OR = 0.958) favoured a close match/smaller points difference.

Conclusion

The predictive indicators differed from those found in previous literature. However, there was little to no data available on women's rugby union to compare to, and therefore comparisons were made to men's rugby. More data and studies are required to confirm these findings.
Enhancing athletic performance with complex contrast training: A Delphi study of elite strength and conditioning coaches
Authors: Luders Jack , Gleadhill Sam , Garrett Joel , Bennett Hunter
Published: August 2024

This Delphi study identifies how elite strength and conditioning coaches prescribe complex contrast training to team sport athletes. Thirty-eight elite strength and conditioning coaches with experience working in high performance settings participated in a three-round survey. Round one was used to collect open-ended responses regarding the programming of complex contrast training. Responses were formulated into statements for rounds two and three, where participants rated their level of agreement using a 9-point Likert scale (agreement threshold ≥80%). In round one, 139 statements were formulated. Twenty-seven statements reached consensus in round two, and four more in round three. Based upon consensus, complex contrast training is best used during the season and dedicated power blocks. It was recommended that strength and power exercises within complex contrast training pairings be performed for 3–4 sets of 3–4 repetitions. Loading of 85–90% of one repetition maximum (1RM) was recommended for strength exercises, with ∼two repetitions in reserve, and BW–30% 1RM for power exercises, with three minutes of rest between contrast sets. Upper body pressing, upper body throwing, lower body squatting and hinging, and lower body jumping and bounding exercises were recommended. Coaches reported using complex contrast training to enhance power-focused training, and because it is more time efficient. Complex contrast training may be a time efficient method of improving athletic performance when training time is limited. Results from this study can guide the development of complex contrast training programs for team-sport athletes, and provides valuable insight into how elite coaches enhance performance.
Investigating the solid particle erosion behavior of H3BO3 / B2O3 / SiO2 / Al2O3 reinforced glass fibre/epoxy composites and parametric evaluation using artificial intelligence
Authors: Bagci Mehmet , Bhaumik Shubrajit
Published: August 2024

In this experimental study, the erosion wear behavior of glass fibre-reinforced (GF) composite materials was examined according to ASTM G76–95. Pure/GF reinforced epoxy composite (EP) materials were chosen as the main test sample. Boric Acid (H3BO3), Borax (B2O3), Silicon Dioxide (SiO2), and Aluminium Oxide (Al2O3) were added to the resin as reinforcement at a rate of 15% by weight. The erosion wear rate was investigated with various impingement angles (30°, 60°, and 90°), impact velocities (≈23, 34, and 53 m/s), alumina abrasive particle sizes (≈200 and 400 μm), and fibre directions (0° and 45°). Neural network models were employed effectively to predict the influence of the reinforcements on erosive wear rate. The erosive wear rate indicated that Al2O3 added GF/EP exhibited the most anti-erosive characteristics followed by silicon dioxide GF/EP and pure GF/EP however, the anti-erosive nature of GF/EP deteriorated with the addition of Borax and Boric Acid.
Personalised indication of augmentation therapy for emphysema associated with severe alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: a case series
Authors: Aljama Cristina , Martin Teresa , Granados Galo , Miravitlles Marc , Barrecheguren Miriam
Published: August 2024

Severe alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is associated with an increased risk of emphysema. However, the clinical manifestations are very heterogeneous, and an individual prognosis is very difficult to establish. Intravenous augmentation therapy with alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) from pooled blood donors is the only specific treatment available, but it requires weekly or biweekly administration for life. Several guidelines provide the indication criteria for the initiation of AAT augmentation therapy. However, in clinical practice, there are situations in which the decision as to when to start treatment becomes uncertain and some studies have shown great variability in the indication of this treatment even among specialists. The usual dilemma is between initiating augmentation therapy in individuals who may not develop significant lung disease or in whom disease will not progress or delaying it in patients who may otherwise rapidly and irreversibly progress. We illustrate this dilemma with five clinical cases: from the case of a patient with normal lung function who requests initiation of therapy to a moderately stable patient without augmentation or a mild patient who, after several years of remaining stable without treatment, deterioration in lung function initiated and, consequently, augmentation therapy was begun. All the nuances associated with the indication of augmentation justify a personalised approach and the decision about initiating augmentation therapy must be made after careful consideration of the pros and cons with the patient in reference centres with experience in treatment. These reference centres can work in collaboration with local hospitals where patients can be closely followed and augmentation therapy can be administered to avoid unnecessary travelling, making periodical administrations more comfortable for the patient.
What are the barriers to upper limb splint adherence, and how is adherence measured? A systematic review
Authors: Bamford Emma , Mawhinney Jamie A , Johnson Nick , Shelton Ian , Selby Anna , Drummond Avril
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Non-adherence to splint wearing following an upper limb traumatic injury is a significant medical issue. Optimal outcome following such injuries relies on people adhering to the prescribed splint, and a failure to do so can negatively impact outcome and increase healthcare burden and costs. This systematic review aims to compare and synthesise the evidence related to measuring adherence to wear recommendations and the barriers to splint wearing following upper limb trauma in adults.

Methods

Databases (EBSCO, PubMed, EMBASE and Science Direct) were systematically searched for articles that met the pre-agreed eligibility criteria between February and May 2023. Data on study characteristics and reported outcomes relating to measuring and quantifying splint adherence and barriers to adherence were extracted.

Results

A total of 16 articles were included for final review. Several methods were used to measure adherence, with no single tool used predominantly. These included patient or therapist reported data, preexisting classification systems and an electronic device. Methods used to quantify adherence was also heterogenous in nature, and a range of investigator and patient reported barriers to splint wearing were reported.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates heterogeneity in both classifying and measuring splint adherence, as well as in the barriers to splint wearing reported. Moving forward, using agreed measurement and reporting practices for splint adherence will enable researchers to complete high quality trials to determine splinting outcomes, and may ultimately enable health care professionals to improve adherence and, subsequently, outcomes in clinical practice.
Who Shapes Mediated Conversations Among Rising Global Powers? Examining News Geography, Authorship, and Media Sources Within the BRICS Framework
Authors: Santos Augusto , Cazzamatta Regina
Published: August 2024

This study investigates how news flows have shaped the mediated conversations among BRICS countries by examining aspects such as news geography, underlying topics, authorship attribution, and references to media sources. The authors conducted a quantitative manual content analysis of 3,945 discursive articles that were published between 2011 and 2019 by leading newspapers in BRICS countries, which covered ten dailies in four languages. The findings reveal that the most discussed countries reflected the traditional structure of international news, which includes trade partners, neighboring countries, and elite nations. Among the BRICS member states, China and Russia received the most media attention. China-related issues often intersected with economic topics, while articles on Russia predominantly centered around violent conflicts and security. Conversely, Brazil, India, and South Africa had limited visibility, with Brazil and South Africa often being discussed within the BRICS framework. Notably, South Africa led with the highest share of articles on the BRICS states altogether (19%), surpassing the share of U.S.-related articles (13.41%). Correspondent-authored articles on BRICS countries were comparatively recurrent in Chinese and Russian newspapers. Moreover, Chinese and Russian media footprints were scarce. More balanced coverage and denser news flow across BRICS media systems remain necessary to boost South–South communication and convey BRICS as more than a Chinese-Russian alliance “plus others.”
Physical Activity Levels in Persons With Patellofemoral Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Sungwan , Wu Yin , Glaviano Neal R. , Pescatello Linda S.
Published: August 2024

Context:

Pain and symptoms of patellofemoral pain (PFP) are often exacerbated during daily activities, which may result in reduced overall physical activity levels.

Objective:

To summarize the evidence for physical activity levels among persons with PFP compared with pain-free controls.

Data Sources:

PubMed, Embase, CINHAL, Cochrane Library, and SPORTDiscus were searched from January 1, 2000 to February 22, 2024.

Study Selection:

Peer-reviewed studies published in English that measured physical activity subjectively or objectively in persons with PFP and pain-free controls.

Study Design:

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Level of Evidence:

Level 1.

Data Extraction:

Standardized mean difference (SMD) with 95% CI are reported based on Hedges’ g effect sizes.

Results:

From 23,745 records, 41 studies met the eligibility criteria. There was high-to-moderate-certainty evidence that persons with PFP reported higher physical activity levels compared with pain-free controls using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (SMD, 0.27; 95% CI 0.03, 0.51), whereas lower physical activity levels compared with pain-free controls using the Tegner Activity Scale (SMD, -0.31; 95% CI -0.57, -0.04). There was low-to-moderate-certainty evidence that there was no group difference in physical activity levels using the Baecke Physical Activity Questionnaire (SMD, 0.17; 95% CI -0.09, 0.44) or self-reported sports participation duration (SMD, -0.46; 95% CI -0.98, 0.05). There was high-certainty evidence that runners with PFP reported shorter running distances compared with pain-free runners (SMD, -0.36, 95% CI -0.57, -0.14). No data pooling was possible for objectively measured physical activity levels due to device heterogeneity (ie, different algorithms used to quantify the intensity of physical activity).

Conclusion:

Self-reported physical activity levels among persons with PFP were inconsistent depending on the physical activity measurement tool used or which specific physical activity was measured. Clinicians should integrate multiple physical activity assessment tools to determine the extent to which PFP influences physical activity levels.

Trial Registration:

PROSPERO #CRD42022314598.
Complete Third Nerve Palsy: A Rare Occurrence in Fulminant IIH Case Report
Authors: Hesham Eisa , Nene Yash , Reynolds Daniel , Bradshaw Deborah
Published: August 2024

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) is a condition characterized by elevated intracranial pressure of unknown cause. Classic symptoms include headache, vision loss, transient visual obscurations (TVOs), diplopia (often from sixth nerve palsy), divergence insufficiency, and pulsatile tinnitus. However, atypical presentations can occur, including asymmetric or unilateral papilledema, oculomotor disturbances such as third and fourth nerve palsies, internuclear ophthalmoplegia, and olfactory dysfunction, among others. Fulminant IIH is a subtype of IIH defined as acute onset of rapid worsening of vision over days (less than 4 weeks between symptom onset and severe vision loss). This case report details a rare presentation of fulminant IIH with unilateral complete third nerve palsy.
Transmediastinal primary pulmonary liposarcoma: Case report and review of management strategies
Authors: Wilcox Taylor , Kleinertz Aaron , Seadler Benjamin D , Joyce Lyle D , Charlson John , Linsky Paul L
Published: August 2024

Soft tissue sarcomas account for less than 1% of new cancer diagnoses, approximately one in five of which are liposarcomas. These tumors typically arise in the deep tissues of the proximal extremity or retroperitoneum, with just under 3% presenting as primary intrathoracic neoplasms. We present an exceedingly rare and particularly unique presentation of primary lung liposarcoma which traversed the mediastinum into the contralateral hemithorax. This report highlights the primary characteristics of the disease and underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to its successful treatment.
Troubling childhood: A conversation
Authors: Mishra Tarc Aparna , O’Loughlin Michael
Published: August 2024

The authors explore their interest in child precarity. The discussion begins with autobiographical explorations of events in their lives that have led them to have sensitivity to childhood vulnerability and then moves on to a discussion of their key concerns about childhood today. Discussion includes mention of significant writers that have influenced their thinking.
Eclampsia or epilepsy? The intriguing experiences of pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia and eclampsia: A descriptive exploratory study
Authors: Boakye Dorothy Serwaa , Amoah Vida Maame Kissiwaa , Amoah Christian , Boateng Agartha Afful , Aduomi-Botchwey Charles Owusu , Bamfo Florence , Boampong Jennifer
Published: August 2024

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of pregnant women who suffer the stressful effects of preeclampsia and eclampsia through pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum.

Methods:

A descriptive exploratory approach was adopted to gather in-depth data from women diagnosed with preeclampsia and eclampsia during pregnancy from February to March 2022. Purposive sampling was used to enlist 12 participants from a Municipal Hospital in the Ahafo region of Ghana. Data were analyzed thematically following Braun and Clark approach.

Results:

The study found that women had strong negative emotional reactions after being diagnosed with preeclampsia or eclampsia. They frequently felt guilty, angry, scared, in denial, or disbelief about their condition. Many women held mistaken beliefs about the diseases (they misconstrued eclampsia to be epilepsy) and isolated themselves, mainly because of false perceptions and stigma around their illness in the community. Participants expressed unfulfilled needs for informational and emotional support. The information they received about their condition was insufficient, contradictory, and confusing. Some women also felt pressured into having cesarean deliveries without enough discussion or say in the decision-making process.

Conclusion:

These findings reveal important psychosocial impacts of preeclampsia/eclampsia and gaps in condition-specific education and empathetic, patient-centered communication. Improving provider knowledge and counseling skills along with community awareness may help address these unmet needs among Ghanaian women facing this threat to maternal health.
Purtscher-like retinopathy: Case report of a rare complication of acute on chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Bandara Ginimal Bandaralage Kavinda Deshapriya , Subasinghe Duminda , Gamage Chanika , Siriwardene Pradeepa , Fernandopulle Nilesh
Published: August 2024

Purtscher’s retinopathy is an occlusive micro-vasculopathy causing sudden onset visual loss in trauma. Similar retinal appearance is observed as a rare complication of acute pancreatitis which is identified as Purtscher-like retinopathy (PulR). We report the case of a 15-year-old girl diagnosed to have acute on chronic pancreatitis who noticed a sudden onset loss of vision in the left eye and was found to have significantly diminished visual acuity. A dilated fundoscopic examination demonstrated pathognomonic Purtscher flecken, multiple retinal haemorrhages, cotton wool spots and macular oedema. A clinical diagnosis of PulR was made in the setting of acute on chronic pancreatitis. Optical coherence tomography was used to support the diagnosis and to monitor response to therapy. Given the variable prognosis with no evidence-based therapies available, she had a subjective improvement in visual acuity with administration of intravitreal steroids and observation with management of the acute episode of pancreatitis. Knowledge and awareness of this rare condition will enable its early detection and the search for newer therapies.
Multiple liver, splenic and psoas abscesses due to melioidosis: A case report
Authors: Bandara AMNP , Subasinghe Duminda
Published: August 2024

Melioidosis is caused by community-acquired gram-negative bacillus Burkholderia pseudomallei which resides in soil and water. It was first described in 1912 in Burma and 1927 in Sri Lanka. Melioidosis presents with non-specific clinical and biochemical findings. Diagnosis is confirmed by the isolation of bacteria in cultures or demonstrating antibody response. Once the diagnosis is made, patients are managed with a course of intravenous antibiotics followed by a long course of oral antibiotics. Even with antibiotic treatments, most patients do not achieve complete recovery which results in chronic disease. Prolonged antibiotic therapy makes patients less compliant with treatment. Here we present a 50-year-old Sri Lankan male with diabetes mellitus presented with low-grade fever and back pain. He was found to have multiple abscesses involving the liver, spleen and left psoas muscle. Initially, he was evaluated for tuberculosis and later only melioidosis was diagnosed. The patient was managed with guided aspiration of abscesses and intravenous antibiotics. Subsequently, the patient defaulted on all treatments. It is important to consider melioidosis as a differential diagnosis in immunocompromised patients presented with multiple abscesses. It is important to maintain a registry for follow-up melioidosis patients to prevent becoming chronic melioidosis patients and to save healthcare costs.
The impact of complementary feeding education for mothers using mobile phone applications on the anthropometric indices of Iranian infants
Authors: Mousavi Ezmareh Fariba , Bostani Khalesi Zahra , Jafarzadeh Kenarsari Fatemeh , Maroufizadeh Saman
Published: August 2024

Background

Maternal education is often linked to improved awareness. This study aimed to determine the impact of complementary feeding education for mothers using mobile phone applications on the anthropometric indices of Iranian infants.

Methods

This quasi-experiment study involved 86 eligible women divided into two groups—intervention ( n = 43) and control ( n = 43)—using a multistage sampling method. A researcher-designed questionnaire collected demographic data from parents and infants. Education was delivered through a mobile phone application. Infant anthropometric indices (weight-for-age, length-for-age, and weight-for-length) were measured before and 3 months after the intervention. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests, paired t-tests, chi-square tests (or Cochran–Armitage tests), and analysis of covariance.

Results

The mean weight-for-age Z-scores of the infants in the intervention group were significantly different before (0.07 ± 0.52) and after the intervention (0.37 ± 0.53) ( p < .001), while this difference was not significant in the control group. The mean infant weight-for-length Z score in the intervention group was significantly different before (0.09 ± 0.72) and after the intervention (0.29 ± 0.63) ( p = .015); however, in the control group, the difference was not statistically significant. The mean length-for-age Z score in the intervention group was significantly different before (0.12 ± 0.68) and after the intervention (0.40 ± 0.76) ( p = .006). In contrast, in the control group, the mean length-for-age Z score after the intervention (−0.03 ± 0.84) decreased compared to that before the intervention (0.38 ± 0.75) ( p < .001).

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that educating mothers on complementary feeding through mobile phone applications positively impacted infant anthropometric indices. Healthcare providers are encouraged to use this educational approach to prevent infant growth disorders.
Pregnancy characteristics in Egyptian female patients with NMOSD
Authors: Gad Adel Hassanein , Kishk Nirmeen , Shalaby Nevin M , Heikal Eman Salah , Fouad Amr Mohamed , Merghany Nahla , Abdelghany Hend
Published: August 2024

Background

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) primarily affects women of childbearing age.

Objectives

Studying the potential relationship between NMOSD and pregnancy characteristics and outcomes.

Subjects and methods

This is a retrospective cohort study that was conducted on 66 married female patients diagnosed with NMOSD. All patients underwent a thorough review of their demographic and clinical history through their medical records and personal interviews. Additionally, a complete neurological examination was performed, along with the expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and a pregnancy registry questionnaire.

Results

After comparing married patients before and after disease onset, there was a significant increase in the number of abortions and the percentage of cesarean sections, as well as a decrease in the percentage of breastfeeding after disease onset. The p values were .02, <.001, and <.001, respectively, with odds ratios of 2.03, 5.13, and 6.17. Additionally, there was a rise in the occurrence of postpartum relapses, which accounted for 66% of all relapses after the disease onset. Most of these relapses (88.7%) occurred within the first 3 months postpartum.

Conclusion

Presence of NMOSD increased the percentage of miscarriage, delivery by cesarean section, and decreased the chance of breastfeeding. In addition, pregnancy increases NMOSD relapse and subsequent disability.
The Political Twittersphere as a Breeding Ground for Populist Ideas: The Case of Israel
Authors: Tzelgov Eitan , Wilson Steven Lloyd
Published: August 2024

This study employs a neural network approach to investigate the dissemination and content of populist ideas within the Israeli political Twittersphere. By analyzing a data set of Twitter activity by Israeli lawmakers from 2013 to 2022, the study reveals a consistent increase in the frequency and concentration of populist ideas, particularly among legislators from religious-nationalist parties. The analysis of the topical content of populist ideas spread on Twitter highlights the significant impact of legal proceedings against the Prime Minister on political discussions. It delineates the development of a Manichean discourse among the center-left and a complete populist cosmology among the right, reaching its peak in 2022. The study demonstrates the utility of such approaches in understanding the evolution and dissemination of populist ideas, as well as the challenges faced by the backsliding Israeli democracy.
“Tell Me You Have ADHD Without Telling Me You Have ADHD”: Neurodivergent Identity Performance on TikTok
Authors: Leveille Abigail D.
Published: August 2024

User-generated content about attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most popular health topics on TikTok. Because most creators are lay people, yet they attract a wide audience, concerns have been raised about the accuracy of the information shared. Through critical discourse analysis of #actuallyADHD and #ADHDprobs videos, this study examines the content of these videos as they relate to creators’ ADHD self-disclosure. Analysis showed that platform affordances and performance practices of videos focused on humor and personal experiences rather than educational medical content. I argue that in user-generated ADHD TikTok videos the performance strategies of creators and platform affordances of TikTok indicate these videos function as identity work rather than health information.
Do Influencers Influence? A Meta-Analytic Comparison of Celebrities and Social Media Influencers Effects
Authors: Lee Jiyoung , Walter Nathan , Hayes Jameson L. , Golan Guy J.
Published: August 2024

The emergent body of scholarship on social media influencers (SMIs) highlights their potential to yield positive brand advertising outcomes. However, the literature is undermined by the lack of clarity regarding how SMIs conceptually compare to celebrity endorsers and their impact on advertising outcomes. The study aims to clarify these differences via a meta-analysis of 39 experimental studies (total sample size = 13,766) of SMI effects from 2010 through March 2024. Findings reveal that SMIs are more effective than brand-only advertising and that there is no significant difference between SMIs and celebrity endorsers. Taking these factors into consideration, the effects are moderated by perceived credibility and influencer types, indicating that mega-influencers are relatively more persuasive, while nano-influencers are less persuasive compared to celebrities, respectively. Findings imply that there is a “sweet spot” wherein SMIs are most effective and distinct from celebrity endorsers, providing support for more nuanced conceptualizations of SMIs and calling for future research to explore additional enhancing and attenuating factors.
Hashtagging for Inclusion: Complex Identities in Singaporean Gay Men’s Social Representation on Instagram
Authors: Zhang Langcheng , Tandoc Edson C.
Published: August 2024

Beyond indexing content and creating networks, hashtags can also convey social meanings. From the perspective of social representation, this article investigates how gay men in Singapore use various hashtags to represent their complex identities and create a shared meaning of being gay in Singapore. Through a textual analysis of identity-related posts generated by gay Instagram users in Singapore, we identified two patterns of using gay-related hashtags: habitual and contextual. Both patterns rely on and demonstrate the identity complexity of gay users. The patterns suggest the users’ identity management online while engendering different forms of social representation for Singaporean gay men. By using non-gay hashtags and juxtaposing them with gay ones, the users could disseminate outreach information, establish social connections, and improve the digital inclusion of their group. We also found unusual exclusions of gay hashtags, suggesting the potential conflict between gayness and some traditional values/roles in Singapore.
Jardin Royal Garden Retirement Home: Success Amid Burnout in Canadian Retirement Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Provençal Kyra , Tremblay Jessica , Ibrahim Zainub
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had many long-term effects on various sectors, but its impact was particularly devastating in retirement homes. Jardin Royal Garden is a retirement home in Ottawa, Canada, and was among the few homes not to have experienced a single case of COVID-19 during the peak of the pandemic while other retirement homes in the region battled multiple outbreaks. The success of their strategy is largely a result of a proactive approach and the trust and relationships between management, employees, residents, and residents’ families.
“I Love My Body, but Hers is Better!” Body Positivity and Social Media Among College Women
Authors: Taylor Nicole , Nichter Mimi
Published: August 2024

This qualitative study explores how college women interpret and negotiate body positivity messages that appear alongside unattainable body image ideals on social media. The sample consisted of 44 undergraduate college women between the ages of 18 and 23. Methods included semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Using content analysis, the following key themes were identified: a persistent culture of comparison online that reinforced a narrow body ideal alongside an imperative to love your body at any size; skepticism about whether the body positivity movement could create meaningful or enduring cultural change; and the use of fat talk and other self-disparaging online strategies to mitigate critique from others and elicit compliments. Results suggest that women endeavored to internalize the values of body positivity even as they struggled to enact them online. Social media, an ever-changing environment, emerged as a key social and developmental context within which emerging adults negotiate body image ideologies.
Chitosan-based promising scaffolds for the construction of tailored nanosystems against osteoporosis: Current status and future prospects
Authors: Wang Ya-Ming , Shen Jiang-Tao
Published: August 2024

Despite advancements in therapeutic techniques, restoring bone tissue after damage remains a challenging task. Tissue engineering or targeted drug delivery solutions aim to meet the pressing clinical demand for treatment alternatives by creating substitute materials that imitate the structural and biological characteristics of healthy tissue. Polymers derived from natural sources typically exhibit enhanced biological compatibility and bioactivity when compared to manufactured polymers. Chitosan is a unique polysaccharide derived from chitin through deacetylation, offering biodegradability, biocompatibility, and antibacterial activity. Its cationic charge sets it apart from other polymers, making it a valuable resource for various applications. Modifications such as thiolation, alkylation, acetylation, or hydrophilic group incorporation can enhance chitosan’s swelling behavior, cross-linking, adhesion, permeation, controllable drug release, enzyme inhibition, and antioxidative properties. Chitosan scaffolds possess considerable potential for utilization in several biological applications. An intriguing application is its use in the areas of drug distribution and bone tissue engineering. Due to their excellent biocompatibility and lack of toxicity, they are an optimal material for this particular usage. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of osteoporosis, including its pathophysiology, current treatment options, the utilization of natural polymers in disease management, and the potential use of chitosan scaffolds for drug delivery systems aimed at treating the condition.
The Role of Human Capital Components in Gender Wage Inequality in India
Authors: Azad P. , Hari K. S.
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the gender wage gap in the Indian labour market by analysing a range of human capital components, including education, work experience, cognitive and technical skills and occupational choices, using data from the India Human Development Survey 2011–2012. We employ the recentred influence functions (RIF) regression and Firpo, Fortin and Lemieux (FFL) decomposition techniques. The results from the RIF regression analysis underscore the significant role of education, work experience, skills and occupation in wage inequality. While education and English language proficiency lead to widening wage inequality for both men and women, the effects are much larger for the latter. Next, the FFL decomposition unveils a positive gender wage gap, indicating potential favourable returns for women’s qualifications and skills, yet it exposes a concerning wage structure effect suggesting women are often employed in lower-paying jobs. These results suggest that enhancing education and skills among women can be important tools in reducing gender wage inequality.

JEL codes: E24, J24, J16
Anomalous Right Coronary Artery From Pulmonary Artery Presenting as Inferior Wall Ischemia: A Case Report
Authors: Rawlley Bharat , Vaishnav Pratyaksh P. , Khalid Subaina Naeem , Paulraj Shweta , El-Khally Ziad A. , Ahmed Jamal
Published: August 2024

We illustrate the case of a 62-year-old man with a symptomatic anomalous right coronary artery from pulmonary artery (ARCAPA). Our patient had presented with dyspnea on exertion with electrocardiogram showing pronounced inferior Q waves and marked inferolateral ST-T wave changes. The patient had a nuclear stress test which showed inferior wall ischemia. Subsequently, the patient underwent coronary angiography which showed an ARCAPA. The patient underwent surgical repair with reimplantation of the right coronary artery to the ascending aorta which was tolerated well. Our case illustrates ARCAPA presenting late in adulthood with ischemic symptoms that was treated with corrective surgery.
Single-Row Repair Versus Double-Row Repair in the Surgical Management of Achilles Insertional Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ramelli Luca , Docter Shgufta , Kim Christopher , Sheth Ujash , Park Sam Si-Hyeong
Published: August 2024

Background:

Approximately 6% of people will report Achilles tendon pain during their lifetime, and one-third of these individuals will have Achilles insertional tendinopathy (AIT). For patients who have failed conservative treatment, surgical repair is performed. Achilles tendon repair can occur through various techniques, including a single-row or double-row repair.

Purpose:

To determine if there are significant advantages to double-row repair over single-row repair with respect to biomechanical and clinical outcomes.

Study design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A systematic review of the literature was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. An electronic search of the EMBASE and PubMed databases was performed for all studies related to surgical treatment of AIT, which yielded 1431 unique results. These included both biomechanical and clinical studies. Clinical studies in which patients were not diagnosed with AIT, underwent surgery for repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture, or studies that included additional procedures such as a concomitant flexor hallucis longus transfer were excluded. Eligible studies were independently screened by 2 reviewers. A risk-of-bias assessment was conducted using the Cochrane Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies–of Interventions and risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials tools.

Results:

A total of 23 studies were included, 4 of which were biomechanical studies and 19 were clinical studies. Biomechanical comparison found that there was a significant advantage to using double-row versus single-row fixation with respect to load at yield (354.7 N vs 198.7 N; P = .01) and mean peak load (433.9 N vs 212 N; P = .042). There was no significant difference between double-row and single-row repair with respect to load to failure. Significant heterogeneity of the studies did not allow for a statistical comparison of the clinical outcomes between double-row and single-row repairs.

Conclusion:

Although biomechanical studies favor double-row repair for AIT, the current data available on the clinical outcomes are not sufficient to determine if there is a clinical advantage of double-row repair. Larger, prospective randomized controlled trials utilizing validated outcome measures are needed to further elucidate whether the biomechanical advantages associated with double-row repair also translate into improved patient-reported outcomes.
Emergency Medical Service in the Elderly Population in Iran: A Cross-sectional Study Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sabbaghi Mohammadreza , Miri Kheizaran , Namazinia Mohammad
Published: August 2024

This research examines the impact of an aging population in Eastern Iran on prehospital emergency medical services (EMS), with a focus on changes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive cross-sectional analysis was performed on data from 10,264 elderly individuals using EMS in Torbat-e Heydarieh County from March 2019 to March 2022. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and Chi-square tests, were conducted using SPSS software. Findings indicate that 30% of the 33,847 EMS calls received were from older adults. The nature of emergencies evolved from cardiovascular issues pre-pandemic to predominantly impaired consciousness during COVID-19, a statistically significant shift ( p < .001). The study concludes with a call for research targeted at this demographic and suggests setting up dedicated EMS response units to cater to the elderly, responding to the increase in elderly-related EMS needs.
Contexts and Priorities: Reflections on Developing a Master of Public Health Program in India
Authors: Mishra Arima , Pradyumna Adithya , Gundi Mukta , Pinto Edward Premdas , Saligram Prasanna
Published: August 2024

While the recent COVID-19 pandemic has accentuated attention to the public health challenges of our times, many of these concerns are certainly not new. There are multiple public health concerns including the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, health risks due to environmental degradation and climate change, and re-emergence of several communicable diseases. Responses to these challenges, including educational responses, have often been reductionist and hence found to be inadequate. There has been an increasing global recognition of the need for transformative education to address the complex health challenges of the 21st century. In this article, we discuss one such effort in designing a public health education program in India that echoes the sentiment of transformative learning that is contextual, competency-driven, transdisciplinary, reflective, and collaborative. We discuss how these aspects of learning were reflected and considered through a series of internal deliberations within the university and external consultations with different stakeholders. This process involved examining existing gaps in public health education, articulating the core competencies, developing the curriculum, and envisaging students’ contribution to public health practice in India.