bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual Scribing: A Qualitative Research Tool in a Community Engagement Project for Birth Equity
Authors: Alvarado Gabriela , Batra Priya , Bird Chloe E.
Published: April 2024

Visual scribing is a form of notetaking in which the visual scribe pays attention to live discussions and captures the themes and ideas that emerge through the combined use of pictures, diagrams, doodles, and text. In recent years, visual scribing has become increasingly used; however, as this field has emerged from practice and not academia, related literature and theory remain scarce. The act of visual scribing during research activities can be a practice that facilitates the documentation of a researcher’s individual observations, yet also serves to understand researchers’ own reasoning as observers. Additionally, when scribing products are shared with research participants, this helps increase trust and mutual understanding as knowledge is being co-created in an accessible medium (illustration). In this way, scribing becomes both a practice for, and product of, research. In this article we describe how visual scribing methods were used as a complementary approach for notetaking, data collection, and analysis in a community engagement project focused on birth equity in California. We found three main benefits of using visual scribing as part of a broader set of qualitative approaches: (1) triangulation, (2) expanded insight, and (3) participant engagement. Here we present the literature that informed our approach, lessons learned, and potential areas for future inquiry.
Going Beyond Adaptation: An Integrative Review and Ethical Considerations of Semi-Structured Interviews With Elementary-Aged Children
Authors: Quintela Do Carmo Gabriela , Vinuesa Valérie , Dembélé Martial , Ayotte-Beaudet Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2024

There are currently no methodological frameworks available to conduct semi-structured interviews in the education and social sciences fields with children of primary school age, between 6–12, having no history of trauma or disabilities. To fill this gap, we conducted an integrative review of the literature to uncover current methodological considerations using the PRISMA procedure to search the ERIC, SAGE, ProQuest CBCA, SciELO and Redined databases. 19 methodological articles across multiple disciplines were retrieved and analyzed through inductive content analysis. We found that using traditional semi-structured interviews with children brings inherent challenges and that adaptation of current methods is not sufficient. A preliminary set of interviewing guidelines emphasizing a flexible and laissez-faire approach as well as a list of alternatives to the semi-structured interview for elementary-aged children are proposed, laying the foundations for a much-needed overhaul of current interviewing methods.
Experiences of Patients With Breast Cancer Regarding Korean Medical Treatment Approaches: A Qualitative Study Protocol
Authors: Noh Seungjin , Hong Yejin , Ha Jisu , Kim Sunjoong , Youn Inae , Nam Dongwoo
Published: April 2024

The importance of a complementary medical approach for patients with breast cancer is being emphasized to improve their quality of life and manage treatment-related symptoms. Korean medical treatment methods such as acupuncture, moxibustion, and herbal medicine are widely used to treat the side effects and sequelae of cancer treatment, such as pain, lymphedema, gastrointestinal disorders, and psychological issues. However, qualitative research on the perceptions of Korean patients with breast cancer regarding Korean medical treatment is lacking. This study aims to explore the how patients with breast cancer choose Korean medicine as a treatment option, patient experience regarding various therapeutic interventions, and their perception of the advantages and disadvantages of Korean medicine. A qualitative research methodology will be employed and semi-structured, in-depth interviews will be conducted with around 15 patients with breast cancer aged 19–75 years who have undergone Korean medical treatment, and each interview will last approximately 60–120 min. If necessary, interviews will be conducted up to three times. Data will be analyzed using the grounded theory methodology. This study will investigate the benefits and limitations of Korean medical treatment as a remedy for the medical needs of patients with breast cancer. These outcomes could be used as foundational data for future quantitative cancer research and serve as a basis for the development of patient-centered Korean medicine healthcare systems.
Signature pedagogies and professionalism: An exploratory study on novice principal mentoring
Authors: Nirit Pariente , Dorit Tubin
Published: April 2024

Mentoring is one of the main tools for training novice principals, but its contributions to development of professional skills are yet unclear. To unpack the contributions of mentoring to novice principals’ professionalism, we first developed a conceptual framework based on the surface, deep, and implicit structures of Shulman's signature pedagogies, and the professional skills of diagnosis, intervention, and inference, according to Abbott's theory of professions. Using these frameworks, we explored the imprints left by mentoring on novice principals. The methodology includes content analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 Israeli novice principals on their mentoring experiences. The findings reveal that novice principals experience two contradictory messages: the principal as an omnipotent hero who can survive and cope, immediately and alone, with all professional tasks, and as an obedient bureaucrat who needs empathy and care. We conclude that while their mentors helped them to fulfill their obligations, they did not contribute to the development of the principals’ skills of diagnosis and inference of previous events. Theoretical and practical implications are presented in the discussion.
‘Dissensus’ and the emergence of activist leadership in the baby room of UK early childhood settings
Authors: Sakr Mona , Halls Kayla
Published: April 2024

In the context of a chronically under-funded and fragmented Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) sector in England, there is an urgent need for models of leadership that emphasise action and advocacy. In the baby room, where pay, conditions and status are at their lowest, this is particularly the case. In this article, building on the model of activist leadership put forward by Woodrow and Busch, we consider ‘dissensus’ as a foundation for activist leadership among baby room leaders working in English nurseries. Dissensus is the willingness to express and explore differences, disagreements and tensions. In gathering the perspectives and experiences of 15 baby room leaders, we identified three threads of dissensus which we consider in this article: (1) the desire for baby room educators’ contributions to be recognised as more than ‘just care’, (2) feelings of resentment around being overlooked and undermined by ECEC colleagues outside of the baby room and (3) questions around pay and conditions in the baby room. We consider these threads of dissensus as a potential starting point for activist leadership in the baby room.
Revitalizing the role of relative deprivation: An analysis of contemporary teacher protest strike emergence
Authors: Brockman Amanda J
Published: April 2024

This article examines the role of relative deprivation in contemporary teacher protest strikes. I specifically focus on the 2018–2019 unprecedented U.S. K-12 teacher strike wave. Through data generated from analyses of 35 semi-structured interviews with teachers who were also leaders of their local protest strike, I find that the role of relative deprivation in these strikes is complex. Specifically, I find that only relative deprivation experienced with nearby reference groups was described as leading to protest strike emergence but that all types of relative deprivation were used as an effective framing strategy to garner support and bring more teachers on board once the activism was underway. This paper revitalizes a consideration of relative deprivation as an important theory in understanding protest strike emergence and gives a better understanding of the impetus of this wave of teacher activism.
Making Memory: Bloody Sunday in Northern Ireland
Authors: Eyerman Ronald
Published: April 2024

This is a study of how collective memory forms out of traumatic experience. It addresses questions about the formation of collective identity out of individual trauma, and, in turn, how individual and collective trauma intertwine. This process of memory formation is illustrated through the example of an incident that took place in Northern Ireland on 30 January 1972, an event that came to be known as Bloody Sunday. A lawyer representing the families of the victims once succinctly described it as a ‘mass murder perpetrated before the world’s media [. . . which] took place over a period of ten to twelve minutes, within a geographical space not much bigger than two football pitches’.

To explain how this ‘ten to twelve’ minutes became a powerful symbol of the excesses of state violence and a memory forever linked to Ireland’s history I apply the theory of cultural trauma. Previous research has identified several arenas of memory, ‘social spaces where different narratives of collective memory interact [. . .] distinct discourses that are tied to specific individuals, organizations, and institutions that advocate specific narratives through specific forms of media’. Four areas were identified, the political, the academic, the artistic, and the community. Along with the theory of cultural trauma, I apply that framework in analyzing the memory and memorialization of Bloody Sunday.
The age specific performance of elbow hemiarthroplasty: A systematic review
Authors: Heifner John J , Falgiano Peter A , Yergler Thomas O , Davis Ty A , Hoekzema Nathan A , Orbay Jorge L
Published: April 2024

Background

Compared to total elbow arthroplasty, elbow hemiarthroplasty (EHA) does not have an ulnar component or a hinge/link which eliminates complication risk due to polyethylene wear and ulnar loosening. There are notable gaps in the existing EHA literature. Patient age is often identified as an important determinant when deciding to treat with EHA; however, there is limited age-based evidence. Our systematic review objectives were (a) to compare EHA outcomes between younger and older adults, and (b) to stratify outcomes for EHA by prosthesis.

Methods

In compliance with PRISMA guidelines, databases were searched for EHA studies and 65 years was used to delineate younger and older adults.

Results

Older adults (N = 159) had a significantly higher elbow arc of motion compared to younger adults (N = 121) at a mean follow-up of 51 months. There was a significantly increased risk for a MEPS below 75 in younger compared to older adults. Mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores and rates of revision/removal were comparable between age groups.

Conclusion

The current findings suggest that although elbow range of motion may be limited in younger adults following EHA, function is satisfactory and comparable to the function in older adults. Additionally, the risk of revision/removal surgery is similar between younger and older adults across short to mid-terms of follow-up.
Preliminary Development of Items for a Nurses’ Physical Environmental Stress Scale
Authors: Rittenbacher Dagmar , Bosch Sheila J. , Valipoor Shabboo , Lorusso Lesa
Published: April 2024

Research Purpose:

This study aimed to develop a preliminary Nurses’ Physical Environmental Stress Scale (NPESS) that explores the relationships between the physical environment in the intensive care unit (ICU) and work-related stress among ICU nurses.

Background:

Working within the healthcare field is stressful and comes with a high level of responsibility for nurses, especially ICU nurses. The ICU work environment is associated with risk factors such as excessive workload, increased expectations, and long working hours that can lead to burnout among nurses. There is some evidence that environmental design has the potential to prevent or mitigate work-related stress; however, an adequate assessment tool to identify physical environmental stressors or supports for moderating stress is lacking.

Methods:

To develop the preliminary environmental assessment tool, an exploratory sequential methodology was used. The approach consisted of three distinct phases, including (a) a qualitative content analysis of existing focus group data, (b) a qualitative content analysis of pertinent literature related to environmental assessment tools in a healthcare context, and (c) the development and refinement of the NPESS assessment tool. Tool refinement was based on interviews with ICU nurses.

Results:

The resulting NPESS tool was comprised of seven sections (sounds, lighting, smells, staff respite spaces, staff workspaces, patient rooms, and aesthetic qualities) containing a total of and 81 items that address factors that were identified as potential moderators of environmental stress in ICU settings.

Conclusions:

The resulting NPESS assessment tool provides a feasible approach for evaluating ICU settings to identify possible improvements to reduce stress among nurses. Future research will be conducted to assess the validity and reliability of the final tool by distributing it to a larger sample of ICU nurses.
Diagnostic Challenges of Lyme Neuroborreliosis in Inpatient Neurology: A Case Series
Authors: Palmer Kaitlyn N. , Sokola Maria , Uysal Sanem P. , Cooperrider Jessica , Leung Anthony K. , Torres-Trejo Alejandro , Li Yuebing , Abbatemarco Justin R.
Published: April 2024

Lyme disease is a multisystem disorder transmitted through the Ixodes tick and is most commonly diagnosed in northeastern and mid-Atlantic states, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, though its disease borders are expanding in the setting of climate change. Approximately 10%–15% of untreated Lyme disease cases will develop neurologic manifestations of Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB). Due to varying presentations, LNB presents diagnostic challenges and is associated with a delay to treatment. We discuss three cases of LNB admitted to our referral center in a traditionally low-incidence state to highlight clinical pearls in LNB diagnosis. Three patients from low-incidence areas with prior diagnostic evaluations presented in August with neurologic manifestations of radiculoneuritis, cranial neuropathies, and/or lymphocytic meningitis. MRI findings included cranial nerve, nerve root, and leptomeningeal enhancement leading to broad differential diagnoses. Lumbar puncture demonstrated lymphocytic pleocytosis (range 85-753 cells/uL) and elevated protein (87-318 mg/dL). Each patient tested positive for Lyme on two-tiered serum testing and was diagnosed with LNB. All three cases were associated with a delay to health care presentation (mean 20 days) and a delay to diagnosis and treatment (mean 54 days) due to under-recognition and ongoing evaluation. With the geographic expansion of Lyme disease, increasing awareness of LNB manifestations and acquiring detailed travel histories in low-incidence areas is crucial to prompt delivery of care. Clinicians should be aware of two-tiered serum diagnostic requirements and use adjunctive studies such as lumbar puncture and MRI to eliminate other diagnoses. Treatment with an appropriate course of antibiotics leads to robust improvement in neurological symptoms.
A New Patient-reported Outcomes Measure for Surgically Treated Epiphora: Tearing Assessment and Rating Scale-12 (TEARS-12)
Authors: Jafari Aria , Simmonds Jonathan C. , Mitchell Margaret B. , Banks Catherine G. , Lehmann Ashton , Paz-Lansberg Marianella , Yoon Michael K. , Metson Ralph
Published: April 2024

Background

No widely accepted, validated instrument currently exists to measure clinical outcomes in patients who undergo dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) for treatment of epiphora.

Objective

To develop a patient-reported outcome measure applicable to this population.

Methods

Psychometric evaluations, consultation with experts, and review of the literature informed item generation of a 12-question questionnaire to incorporate the most relevant symptoms experienced by patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. This questionnaire, known as the Tearing Assessment and Rating Scale-12 (TEARS-12), was administered to 32 patients before and after intervention, in the form of endoscopic DCR. Statistical analysis was performed to measure internal consistency, responsiveness, and test-retest reliability.

Results

Pre-operative and post-operative TEARS-12 scores (28.2 [standard error (SE) 3.19] vs 11.8 [SE 3.25], respectively, P = 0.001) demonstrated improved patient outcome within 6 weeks following endoscopic DCR. Cronbach's alpha for the questionnaire was 0.90, indicating high overall reliability. Additionally, each question demonstrated internal reliability, with a corrected item-total correlation greater than 0.30. The intraclass correlation between the two pre-operative scores was 0.858 ( P < 0.001), indicating high test-retest reliability.

Conclusion

TEARS-12 is a statistically valid, easy-to-administer instrument to measure clinical outcomes in patients who undergo endoscopic DCR.
The Role of Inhalant Allergens on the Clinical Manifestations of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Jung Jaekeun , Enos Clinton W. , Lam Kent K. , Han Joseph K.
Published: April 2024

Background

Inhalant allergens provide a source of environmental factors that contribute to the development of clinical symptoms in patients with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objective

To review the relationship between inhalant allergens and AD.

Methods

A literature review was conducted using three databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, ClinicalKey, and Web of Science. Search terms, including “atopic dermatitis,” “atopic eczema,” and “eczema,” were used in combination with “inhalant allergen,” “inhaled allergen,” and “aeroallergen” to identify relevant published manuscripts that highlight the relationship between AD and exposures to inhalant allergens.

Results

Fifteen articles were suitable for review. The studies included in the review investigated the effect of inhalant allergens on the clinical manifestations of AD through bronchial provocation, direct skin contact, and allergen sensitization.

Conclusion

There is a significant relationship between exposures to inhalant allergens and AD. Inhalant allergens may aggravate AD symptoms by either bronchial provocation or direct skin contact. Sensitization of inhalant allergens, mainly house dust mites, follows a specific age-related pattern.
Faster Bone Gap Union in Medial Opening Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy With 3D-Printed Synthetic Bioresorbable Polycaprolactone and Tricalcium Phosphate Osteotomy Gap Fillers Compared to Allogeneic Osteotomy Gap Fillers: A Retrospective Matched-Pair Cohort Study
Authors: Chua Shaun Kai Kiat , Wong Walter-Soon-Yaw , Koh Don Thong Siang , Sultana Rehena , Soong Junwei , Lee Kong Hwee , Bin Abd Razak Hamid Rahmatullah
Published: April 2024

Objective

The use of synthetic bone substitute material (BSM) as osteotomy gap fillers have been reported to improve outcomes in medial opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO). This study aims to evaluate the early radiological outcomes (bone union) and complication rates of the novel patient-specific 3D-printed honeycomb-structured polycaprolactone and tricalcium phosphate (PCL-TCP) synthetic graft compared to allogeneic bone grafts as an osteotomy gap filler in MOWHTO.

Methods

A retrospective matched-pair analysis of patients who underwent MOWHTO with either PCL-TCP synthetic graft or allogenic femoral head allograft as osteotomy gap filler was performed. The osteotomy gap was split into equal zones (Zone 1-5), and bone union was evaluated on anteroposterior radiographs based on the van Hemert classification at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Postoperative complications including infection, lateral hinge fractures, and persistent pain was measured. The study and control group were matched for age, smoking status, diabetes mellitus, and osteotomy gap size.

Results

Significantly greater bone union progression was observed in the PCL-TCP group than in the allograft group at 1 month (Zones 1-3), 3 months (Zones 1-4), 6 months (Zones 1-2, 4), and 12 months (Zones 2-3, 5) postoperatively ( P < 0.05). No significant difference in complications rates was noted between the two groups at 1 year.

Conclusions

Bone union rates observed in patients who underwent MOWHTO with the PCL-TCP synthetic graft osteotomy gap filler were superior to those in the allograft group at 1 year postoperatively, with no significant difference in complication rates (postoperative infection, lateral hinge fractures, and persistent pain).
Unexpected coil mass migration during transvenous embolization of a dural arteriovenous fistula resolved with guidewire-assisted snaring technique
Authors: Chihara Hideo , Maki Yoshinori , Hatano Taketo
Published: April 2024

Endovascular embolization is a standard treatment for dural arteriovenous fistulas (dAVFs). Although it is considered relatively safe, intraoperative and postoperative complications can occur. Herein, a rare case of unexpected coil mass migration requiring a retrieval procedure during sinus occlusion for a transverse-sigmoid sinus dAVF (TSdAVF) is described. An 83-year-old man presented with worsening decline in cognitive function. Magnetic resonance angiography showed a TSdAVF. Since his symptoms seemed to be a result of the TSdAVF, transvenous embolization preserving the normal cranial venous circulation was planned. During sinus occlusion, including embolization of the shunted pouch of the TSdAVF, unexpected migration of the coil mass to the confluence of the superior sagittal sinus and the transverse sinus occurred. The migrated coil mass impeded venous circulation in the superior sagittal sinus. Since the presence of the coil mass at the confluence could have had catastrophic sequelae, the coil mass was retrieved using a guidewire-assisted snaring technique. Sinus occlusion was subsequently completed with repositioning of the coil mass at the target site. The TSdAVF resolved, with no recurrence confirmed for 1 year. Clinicians should be aware that coil mass migration can unexpectedly occur during sinus occlusion performed for treatment of a TSdAVF. The guidewire-assisted snaring technique might be effective in resolving this intraoperative complication.
A case report of mediastinal parathyroid carcinoma in a chronic kidney disease patient: Addressing management conundrum
Authors: Ezeani Chukwunonso , Echefu Gift , Stowe Ifeoluwa , Kumbala Damodar , Murad Shatha
Published: April 2024

Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare malignancy; and it is rarer to find one located in an ectopic location. Ectopic parathyroid glands are a reported cause of failed primary surgery for hyperparathyroidism. We report here a 73-year-old male who previously had parathyroidectomy for primary hyperparathyroidism but then had recurrence of his symptoms with a diagnosis of a mediastinal parathyroid carcinoma on further evaluation. This presentation of complicated mediastinal parathyroid carcinoma posed significant diagnostic and management challenges due to comorbid stage IV chronic kidney disease (CKD). Secondly, due to the same comorbid condition, a more aggressive calcimimetic regimen could not be undertaken due to the risk of renal dysfunction with potential progression to dialysis status. Thirdly, he was a high-risk surgical candidate due to significant cardiovascular risks. Ideally, open surgical intervention would be recommended but due to the associated risks, he was managed with robotic-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. He subsequently developed hypocalcemia which normalized with supplemental calcium at follow-up.
Application of machine learning in the management of lymphoma: Current practice and future prospects
Authors: Yuan Junyun , Zhang Ya , Wang Xin
Published: April 2024

In the past decade, digitization of medical records and multiomics data analysis in lymphoma has led to the accessibility of high-dimensional records. The digitization of medical records, the visualization of extensive volume data extracted from medical images, and the integration of multiomics methods into clinical decision-making have produced many datasets. As a promising auxiliary tool, machine learning (ML) intends to extract homologous features in large-scale data sets and encode them into various patterns to complete complicated tasks. At present, artificial intelligence and digital mining have shown promising prospects in the field of lymphoma pathological image analysis. The paradigm shift from qualitative analysis to quantitative analysis makes the pathological diagnosis more intelligent and the results more accurate and objective. ML can promote accurate lymphoma diagnosis and provide patients with prognostic information and more individualized treatment options. Based on the above, this comprehensive review of the general workflow of ML highlights recent advances in ML techniques in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of lymphoma, and clarifies the boundedness and future orientation of the ML technique in the clinical practice of lymphoma.
A novel experimental vignette methodology: SMART vignettes
Authors: Kim Jane Paik , Yang Hyun-Joon
Published: April 2024

We motivate and present the methodology of vignette studies. The primary contribution of this paper is our proposal of a novel vignette study design: “SMART vignettes.” Our design has two notable features: the first is its use of sequential randomization, which conceptually originates from the sequential multiple assignment randomization trial (SMART) design developed by Murphy (2004). The second feature is adaptive allocation. These new features in vignette studies offer unique advantages not offered by traditional vignettes: (1) valid causal inferences on the conditional distributions of the primary outcome of interest, given other factors, (2) balanced allocations across groups, and (3) a greater degree of interactivity for the survey respondent. We illustrate the utility of our method using a case example of a vignette study used to probe physicians’ attitudes toward an AI-embedded clinical system. In this example, a SMART vignette was used to randomize hypothetical scenarios to gain a better understanding of the causal impact of physician attitudes, given emerging evidence that a range of factors including previous decisions, play a role in influencing clinical decisions. We simulated hypothetical vignette studies under both SMART and conventional (i.e. single randomization at baseline) designs. We varied the number of factors for each study and fixed each factor to have two levels. Relative loss was used to compare the degree of imbalance between groups. Both designs had smaller relative losses with larger sample sizes. The SMART study design had lower loss than its conventional counterpart for all values of [Formula: see text] for all studies, indicating better balance. As demonstrated by the relative loss in our simulations, our proposed SMART vignette design has an advantage over the conventional design. This method holds promise in generating new knowledge in decision making scenarios occurring over multiple and discrete time points.
Haze Pollution, Climate Risk Perception and Demand for Commercial Health Insurance
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , Tian Qibo
Published: April 2024

Haze pollution not only affects the quality of economic growth and the image of the government, but also seriously affects public health. With the improvement of climate risk perception, the public is actively seeking all kinds of risk management measures to combat the hazards of haze pollution. The study of the relationship between haze pollution, climate risk perception and the development of commercial health insurance is of great significance to the formulation of haze control policies and the improvement of social security system. This paper attempts to explore the relationship between haze pollution, climate risk perception and commercial health insurance demand by establishing static and dynamic models based on panel data from 31 provinces in China from 2005 to 2022. Also, the spatial spillover effects of haze pollution in different regions on the development of commercial health insurance in other regions are investigated by establishing a spatial Durbin model. It is found that (1) haze pollution has a lagged positive effect on the demand for commercial health insurance; (2) haze pollution has a significant spatial spillover effect on the development of commercial health insurance; (3) this study used Python technology to construct a climate risk perception index, and found that the moderating effect of the residents’ perception of climate risk existed significantly, and that the residents might take other measures to manage the risk in the short term, but in the long term, the climate risk perception showed a positive correlation with the level of education. This paper provides implications for government departments and social media to strengthen education and publicity, improve residents’ awareness of risk diversification, and deepen the concept of commercial health protection.
Revision Extension of Fusion Surgery in Thoracolumbar Spine Using a Newly Designed Revision Rod - Comparative Matched Cohort Study Versus Implant-Replacement Surgery
Authors: Youn Yung-Hun , Cho Kyu-Jung , Kim Jeong-Seok , Baek Hyeon , Hong Jin-Hyun
Published: April 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective

To compare the results of revision extension of fusion surgery using the newly designed revision rod and implant-replacement surgery in thoracolumbar spine.

Methods

Thirty-one patients who underwent extension of fusion surgery using the revision rod for adjacent segment disease were included in this study. Thirty-one patients who underwent implant-replacement revision surgery were selected as a control group by matching age, sex, preoperative diagnosis, and number of revision segments.

Results

The mean age was 70.7 ± 8.0 years in the revision rod (RR) group and 69.0 ± 8.4 years in the control group. Preoperative diagnoses, underlying diseases, and mean number of revision segments (2.2 ± 1.1) were similar in both groups. The change of hemoglobin (1.0 ± 1.9 vs 2.5 ± 1.5 g/dl; P < .01), hematocrit (4.1 ± 4.9 vs 7.2 ± 4.4 % P < .01) and albumin (.8 ± .9 vs 1.3 ± .4 g/dl; P < .01) levels before and after surgery showed significant differences between the two groups. Hemovac drainage was significantly less in the RR group ( P = .01). The mean operative time was shorter in the RR group (203.5 ± 9.5 min vs 233.5 ± 8.7 min; P = .12) with no statistical difference. Radiological results showed that the average lumbar lordosis 2 years after surgery was lower in the RR group compared to the control group (25.1 ± 9.9° vs 32.9 ± 9.8°; P = .02). Union rates and clinical outcomes were not different between the two groups.

Conclusion

Revision extension of fusion surgery using a newly designed revision rod had less hemovac drainage and superior laboratory findings compared to implant-replacement revision surgery.
Information and Communication Technology Adoption Strategies Among Iranian Older Adults: A Qualitative Evaluation
Authors: Bahadori Farzaneh , Abolfathi Momtaz Yadollah , Mohammadi Shahboulaghi Farahnaz , Zandieh Zhale
Published: April 2024

In today’s world, it is unavoidable for older adults to use technology, which causes some challenges for them. In this qualitative study, we used grounded theory to evaluate information and communication technology (ICT) adoption strategies among Iranian older adults. The participants included 18 older adults, five experts, and five family members of older adults. The data collection method included conducting semi-structured interviews, taking field notes, and observation. The data were analyzed using the Corbin and Strauss approach. Three main themes were extracted as follows: support from others, effort for learning, and smart choice. The subthemes of support from others included creativity in educating older adults; having access to an educational supporter; and receiving informational, emotional, and financial support. The subthemes of effort for learning included utilizing aids, adaptive measures, shortcut techniques, and self-learning. The subthemes of smart choice included physical characteristics, technical features, price sensitivity, and availability of an active sales representative. Accordingly, it is essential to teach older adults to increase their ICT adoption rate and continued use of technology. In this respect, developing a standard ICT manual for older adults can be beneficial.
Plowing New Fields of Scholarship in Social Studies: Planting New Seeds With Civic, Economic, and Geographic Thinking
Authors: Clabough Jeremiah C. , Russell William B.
Published: April 2024

This manuscript is the introductory article for the special issue of the Journal of Social Studies Research titled Teaching Disciplinary Thinking, Literacy, and Argumentation Skills. In it, the authors provide an historical overview of disciplinary thinking as outlined by Edwin Fenton and Sam Wineburg. They talk about how the C3 Framework is a melding of a focus on disciplinary thinking outlined by Fenton and Wineburg with the emphasis on preparing K-12 students for their future roles as democratic citizens as stressed by scholars like Shirley Engle. Then, the focus of the manuscript shifts to highlight the underdeveloped areas of disciplinary thinking in civics, geography, and economics. The authors define economic, civic, and geographic thinking and provide habits of mind for each of these disciplines along with classroom activities for each. They close with arguments for why K-12 social studies teachers and social studies education scholars should focus on developing K-12 students’ civic, economic, and geographic thinking skills.
Medical Students’ Perception of Telesimulation Training: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Khoury Jo-Ann , Assani Dourra , Vandette Marie-Pier , Denis-LeBlanc Manon , Burnier Isabelle , Fotsing Salomon
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

Over the past 2 decades, simulation-based learning has become an essential part of medical training. Simulated clinics have proven to be effective for training medical students. Even so, this learning method presents organizational and financial challenges that limit its dissemination to all medical students, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Simulated teleconsultation retains the advantages of interactive simulated clinics while offering concrete solutions to the challenges faced. The project aims to explore students’ perspectives on simulated teleconsultation training compared to simulated clinics in person.

METHODS

Ten pre-clerkship students in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa participated in interviews following in-person and teleconsultation simulated clinic sessions. The interview guide was developed based on previous work. The questions asked concerned experience with teleconsultation, interaction with the tutor and patient, practical or logistical obstacles, educational value and feasibility. The authors evaluated the results using a thematic analysis.

RESULTS

The interview analysis showed that the tutor feedback received during the simulated teleconsultation was comparable to that received after the in-person simulated clinic. Although most of the students enjoy teleconsultation, they raised the challenge of carrying out physical examinations and creating a personal connection with the tutor/patient.

CONCLUSION

Given the circumstances of the pandemic and students’ comfort with technology, the new generation of medical students seems prepared to embrace teleconsultation. The themes identified in the analysis will enable the necessary adjustments to be made in order to optimize their teleconsultation training, an inextricable step in promoting the active offer of healthcare services.
Aggressive Onset of a Progressive FEVR Phenotype in a Child With Novel Mutations in LRP5 and TSPAN12
Authors: Tsai Andrew S.H. , Chan R.V. Paul , Blair Michael P. , Shapiro Michael J.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To describe a patient with familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) and the treatment course. Methods: A case was evaluated. Results: A 3-year-old boy presented with severe onset of FEVR, with a subhyaloid hemorrhage in 1 eye and tractional retinal detachment (TRD) in the fellow eye. Aggressive treatment with retinal photocoagulation and repeated injections of intravitreal bevacizumab resulted in stability of the retinal disease. Lens-sparing vitrectomy was performed for the TRD. The treatment effect was durable, and the patient retained useful vision in the better eye at 19 years of age. A subsequent genetic analysis showed 2 novel heterozygous missense mutations in LRP5 and TSPAN12. Conclusions: The presence of 2 novel mutations associated with severe FEVR identified in our patient is in agreement with in vitro studies showing that a more severe reduction in Norrin/β-catenin signal activity occurs with the combination of 2 mutations.
Using the Delphi Process to Prioritize an Agenda for Care Transition Research for Patients With Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Incze Michael A. , Huebler Sophia , Grant Sean , Gordon Adam J.
Published: April 2024

Medical hospitalizations are increasingly recognized as important opportunities to engage individuals with substance use disorders (SUD) and offer treatment. While a growing number of hospitals have instituted interventions to support the provision of SUD care during medical admissions, post-hospitalization transitions of care remain a challenge for patients and clinicians and an understudied area of SUD care. Evidence is lacking on the most effective and feasible models of care to improve post-hospitalization care transitions for people with SUD. In the absence of strong empirical evidence to guide practice and policy, consensus-based research methods such as the Delphi process can play an important role in efficiently prioritizing existing models of care for future study and implementation. We conducted a Delphi study that convened a group of 25 national interdisciplinary experts with direct clinical experience facilitating post-hospitalization care transitions for people with SUD. Our panelists rated 10 existing care transition models according to anticipated effectiveness and facility of implementation based on the GRADE Evidence to Decision framework. Qualitative data on each care model were also gathered through comments and an online moderated discussion board. Our results help establish a hierarchy of SUD care transition models to inform future study and program development.
Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma Invasion of the Ipsilateral Internal Jugular Vein: A Case Report
Authors: Viduetsky Alexander , Simon Robert , Humphries Brian
Published: April 2024

Thyroid cancer is the common malignancy of the endocrine system. Thyroid neoplasms are usually asymptomatic and slow growing. Uncommonly, aggressive thyroid neoplasms may invade adjacent blood vessels. Internal jugular vein invasion is a rare complication of an aggressive thyroid malignancy. Careful sonographic examination of a thrombus-like structure inside a blood vessel adjacent to the affected thyroid could reveal that the “thrombus” is part of the thyroid mass. The continuity of a thyroid neoplasm into the vascular lumen and inner-“thrombus” vascularity confirms the cancerous invasion. Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy is standard for differentiating benign versus malignant thyroid nodules. Genetic testing of thyroid nodules provides valuable clinical information in addition to the routine cytological analysis.
Effects of PDE-3 inhibition in persistent post-traumatic headache: evidence of cAMP-dependent signaling
Authors: Al-Khazali Haidar M. , Christensen Rune H. , Chaudhry Basit Ali , Melchior Anna G. , Ashina Messoud , Burstein Rami , Ashina Håkan
Published: April 2024

Background

Phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE-3) inhibition have been implicated in the neurobiologic underpinnings of migraine. Considering the clinical similarities between migraine and persistent post-traumatic headache (PPTH), we aimed to ascertain whether PDE-3 inhibition can elicit migraine-like headache in persons with PPTH.

Methods

We tested cilostazol, which inhibits PDE-3, in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-way crossover study involving persons with PPTH attributed to mild traumatic brain injury. The randomized participants were allocated to receive oral administration of either 200-mg cilostazol or placebo (calcium tablet) on two separate experiment days. The primary end point was the incidence of migraine-like headache during a 12-hour observation window post-ingestion. The secondary endpoint was the area under the curve (AUC) for reported headache intensity scores during the same observation window.

Results

Twenty-one persons underwent randomization and completed both experiment days. The mean participants’ age was 41.4 years, and most (n = 17) were females. During the 12-hour observation window, 14 (67%) of 21 participants developed migraine-like headache post-cilostazol, in contrast to three (14%) participants after placebo (P =.003). The headache intensity scores were higher post-cilostazol than after placebo (P <.001).

Conclusions

Our results provide novel evidence showing that PDE-3 inhibition can elicit migraine-like headache in persons with PPTH. Given that PDE-3 inhibition increases intracellular cAMP levels, our findings allude to the potential therapeutic value of targeting cAMP-dependent signaling pathways in the management of PPTH. Further investigations are imperative to substantiate these insights and delineate the importance of cAMP-dependent signaling pathways in the neurobiologic mechanisms underlying PPTH.

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier

NCT05595993.
Golgi-associated retrograde protein (GARP) complex-dependent endosomes to trans Golgi network retrograde trafficking is controlled by Rab4b
Authors: Gilleron Jérôme , Chafik Abderrahman , Lacas-Gervais Sandra , Tanti Jean-François , Cormont Mireille
Published: April 2024

Background

The trafficking of cargoes from endosomes to the trans-Golgi network requires numerous sequential and coordinated steps. Cargoes are sorted into endosomal-derived carriers that are transported, tethered, and fused to the trans-Golgi network. The tethering step requires several complexes, including the Golgi-associated retrograde protein complex, whose localization at the trans-Golgi network is determined by the activity of small GTPases of the Arl and Rab family. However, how the Golgi-associated retrograde protein complex recognizes the endosome-derived carriers that will fuse with the trans-Golgi network is still unknown.

Methods

We studied the retrograde trafficking to the trans-Golgi network by using fluorescent cargoes in cells overexpressing Rab4b or after Rab4b knocked-down by small interfering RNA in combination with the downregulation of subunits of the Golgi-associated retrograde protein complex. We used immunofluorescence and image processing (Super Resolution Radial Fluctuation and 3D reconstruction) as well as biochemical approaches to characterize the consequences of these interventions on cargo carriers trafficking.

Results

We reported that the VPS52 subunit of the Golgi-associated retrograde protein complex is an effector of Rab4b. We found that overexpression of wild type or active Rab4b increased early endosomal to trans-Golgi network retrograde trafficking of the cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor in a Golgi-associated retrograde protein complex-dependent manner. Conversely, overexpression of an inactive Rab4b or Rab4b knockdown attenuated this trafficking. In the absence of Rab4b, the internalized cation-independent mannose 6 phosphate receptor did not have access to VPS52-labeled structures that look like endosomal subdomains and/or endosome-derived carriers, and whose subcellular distribution is Rab4b-independent. Consequently, the cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor was blocked in early endosomes and no longer had access to the trans-Golgi network.

Conclusion

Our results support that Rab4b, by controlling the sorting of the cation-independent mannose-6-phosphate receptor towards VPS52 microdomains, confers a directional specificity for cargo carriers en route to the trans-Golgi network. Given the importance of the endocytic recycling in cell homeostasis, disruption of the Rab4b/Golgi-associated retrograde protein complex-dependent step could have serious consequences in pathologies.
Green synthesis, characterization and applications of Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract mediated chromium oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Fatima Easha , Arooj Iqra , Javeed Mehvish , Yin Jian
Published: April 2024

The green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles is attributable towards diverse applications in various fields, recently. In this research, we report simple and eco-friendly synthesis of chromium oxide (Cr2O3) nanoparticles using the fruit extract of Phyllanthus emblica as a reducing and capping agent. The absorbance peaks at 350 nm and 450 nm validated the nanoparticle formation in UV–visible spectrum. FTIR spectrum revealed the nature of functional groups. The crystalline properties of nanoparticles were ascertained by XRD analysis. EDX spectrum corroborated the elemental composition of nanoparticles in which chromium and oxygen constituted 68% of total weight. SEM images demonstrated agglomeration of nanoparticles resulting in the formation of large irregularly shaped flakes. Cr2O3 nanoparticles demonstrated excellent antimicrobial properties against 11 bacterial isolates and 1 fungal isolate. The largest inhibition zone (53 mm) was measured against A. baumannii while the smallest inhibition zone (26 mm) was recorded against S. aureus. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were < 1 µg/ml for all microbes. However, the synthesized nanoparticles did not reveal synergism with any of the selected antibiotics (FICI values > 1). Nanoparticles possessed potent anti-biofilm powers with maximum (77%) inhibition of E. coli biofilms and minimum (45%) inhibition of S. enterica biofilms. Photocatalytic activity of Cr2O3 nanoparticles was evaluated to determine their efficacy in environmental bioremediation. Outcomes demonstrated degradation of methyl red (84%) but not of methylene blue dye. Furthermore, the Cr2O3 nanoparticles displayed considerable antioxidant (43%) as well as anti-inflammatory (44%) potentials. Hence, the present study accounts for the versatile applications of P. emblica-mediated Cr2O3 nanoparticles which could be pursued for future biomedical and environmental applications.

Graphical Abstract
Biomedical semantic text summarizer
Authors: Kirmani Mahira , Kour Gagandeep , Mohd Mudasir , Sheikh Nasrullah , Khan Dawood Ashraf , Maqbool Zahid , Wani Mohsin Altaf , Wani Abid Hussain
Published: April 2024

Background

Text summarization is a challenging problem in Natural Language Processing, which involves condensing the content of textual documents without losing their overall meaning and information content, In the domain of bio-medical research, summaries are critical for efficient data analysis and information retrieval. While several bio-medical text summarizers exist in the literature, they often miss out on an essential text aspect: text semantics.

Results

This paper proposes a novel extractive summarizer that preserves text semantics by utilizing bio-semantic models. We evaluate our approach using ROUGE on a standard dataset and compare it with three state-of-the-art summarizers. Our results show that our approach outperforms existing summarizers.

Conclusion

The usage of semantics can improve summarizer performance and lead to better summaries. Our summarizer has the potential to aid in efficient data analysis and information retrieval in the field of biomedical research.