bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Histopathologic Features of Early COVID Pneumonia in a Pediatric Patient: New Insight into the Role of Macrophages
Authors: Bulterys Philip L. , Xu Guangwu , Pinsky Benjamin A. , Troxell Megan L. , Menke Joshua R. , Berry Gerald J. , Fernandez-Pol Sebastian , Hazard Florette K.
Published: April 2024

A life-threatening complication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is acute respiratory distress syndrome. Our understanding of the pathologic changes in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is based almost exclusively on post-mortem analyses of adults. These studies established several hallmarks of SARS-CoV-2 lung infection, including diffuse alveolar damage, microvascular thrombi, and acute bronchopneumonia. We describe a fatal example of COVID pneumonia in a 9-year-old girl who presented with fever 10 months following the diagnosis of ALK-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). A chest computed tomography scan revealed left upper lobe lung consolidation and nodular airspace disease, and an initial SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal swab (RT-PCR) was negative. A subsequent lung biopsy performed due to concern for relapsed ALCL demonstrated sheets of intra-alveolar and interstitial macrophages, and macrophage-rich fibrinous exudates. Immunohistochemical and in-situ hybridization stains confirmed these macrophages as the predominant SARS-CoV-2-infected cell type. Subsequent RT-PCR testing of upper and lower respiratory tract samples was positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Whole genome sequencing confirmed the presence of the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant. This biopsy illustrates the histopathologic features of early COVID pneumonia in antemortem lung tissue from a pediatric patient, and establishes macrophages as a potential source of SARS-CoV-2 amplification.
GATA3 Expression in Prostatic Adenosquamous Carcinoma: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall
Authors: Potterveld Susan K. , Williamson Sean R. , Al-Obaidy Khaleel I. , Akgul Mahmut , Chan Emily , Giannico Giovanna A. , Sangoi Ankur R.
Published: April 2024

Urothelial carcinoma and prostatic adenocarcinoma can have overlapping histologic features and in some instances pose challenges to pathologists. GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3) immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a well-established tool to aid in this specific diagnostic dilemma as it has been shown to be a sensitive marker for urothelial carcinoma and a putatively specific marker in excluding prostatic adenocarcinoma. However, in encountering an index tumor of prostatic adenosquamous carcinoma positive for GATA3, herein we sought to investigate this potential diagnostic pitfall in a larger series of tumors. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed prostatic adenosquamous carcinomas diagnosed in 17 patients across the authors’ institutions and personal consult collections in the past 10 years. GATA3 IHC was either reviewed or performed on tumors not previously tested. We also recorded other immunostains that were performed at initial diagnosis. Positivity for GATA3 was found in 9 of 17 (53%) tumors, all within squamous regions (2 tumors also showed concomitant moderate GATA3 positivity within glandular elements). The GATA3 positive tumors were all positive for p63 in the 7 tumors where p63 was also performed. Of all tumors tested, NKX3.1 was positive in 100% (13/13) of the glandular elements (3 tumors also showed NKX3.1 concomitant positivity within squamous regions). In summary, when encountering a carcinoma with mixed glandular/squamous features in which prostatic origin is being considered, awareness of GATA3 immunoreactivity in a subset of prostatic adenosquamous carcinoma is critical to avoid diagnostic pitfalls.
Ultrasonography-Based Quantitative Evaluation of Second Metatarsophalangeal Joint Instability in Female Patients With Hallux Valgus
Authors: Shima Hiroaki , Togei Kosho , Hirai Yoshihiro , Tanaka Ken , Yasuda Toshito , Neo Masashi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus (HV) sometimes exhibit second metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint dislocation. Second MTP joint instability due to plantar plate (PP) injury has been suggested as one of the causes. However, there have been no reports that quantitatively evaluate this instability. This study aimed to evaluate second MTP joint instability in patients with HV without dislocation via ultrasonography and investigate its relationship with the presence of PP injury or foot form.

Methods:

Between May 2018 and July 2023, symptomatic female patients with HV without any lesser toe deformity were included in this study. Second MTP joint instability was defined as the dorsal displacement ratio (DDR) of the passively subluxated proximal phalangeal articular surface on the metatarsal head articular surface. The presence of PP injury was assessed using ultrasonography. Foot “form” was determined by measuring standard foot bony angles on weight-bearing foot-ankle radiographs. The relationship between DDR or PP injury and radiographic measurements was investigated.

Results:

Sixty-four patients (100 feet) were included. The average DDR of the second MTP joint in patients with HV without dislocation was 35.7%. There was an increase in the probability of PP injury, above a cutoff DDR value r of 35.4% (area under the curve = 0.712). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for the presence of PP injury based on this cutoff level were 63.9%, 74.4%, 79.6%, and 56.9%, respectively. Metatarsalgia was reported in 21 feet (21.0%), of which 15 feet (71.4%) showed PP injury. An increase in DDR was weakly associated with increased metatarsus adductus angle and decreased second metatarsal height.

Conclusion:

In female patients with HV without second MTP dislocation, we found ultrasonographic evidence of second MTP plantar plate injury and joint instability to be a relatively common finding with a high prevalence in those with localized metatarsalgia.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, development of diagnostic criteria based on consecutive patients.
Fuck: The Police
Authors: Adams Ian T.
Published: April 2024

This study focuses on police profanity, with a particular interest developing reasonable policy to regulate the use of the word “fuck.” Officers employ “fuck” as a linguistic tool to accomplish a range of goals, such as establishing authority, fostering solidarity, and diffusing tension. However, “fuck” can also be used derogatorily, and negatively impact public assessments of police actions. Policy in this area is either absent, overly broad, or inappropriate to its intended use. Following brief, unstructured interviews with line and executive officers, I propose a novel policy theory of profanity, deriving target and intent. I test the theory with a pre-registered experiment administered to a national sample of police and human resources executives ( n = 1492), with each respondent evaluating multiple vignettes ( n = 5280 observations). Results support the proposed theory and generate useful recommendations for practitioners interested in strengthening the ability of agencies to constrain professionally inappropriate use of profanity in the police workplace.
Multimodal imaging in deferasirox-mediated retinopathy
Authors: Caranfa Jonathan , Carrera William , Marmalidou Anna , Desai Shilpa , Baumal Caroline
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Deferasirox is the only iron chelator available in oral formulation and a rare cause of pigmentary retinopathy. We report the first case of multimodal imaging in an adult with deferasirox retinopathy.

Methods

Case report and literature review, with search terms including deferasirox retinopathy and deferasirox toxicity.

Results

A 63-year-old man with end stage renal disease and transfusion-dependent anemia on deferasirox for one year presented with asymptomatic pigment epitheliopathy. Optical coherence tomography featured outer retinal and retinal pigment epithelial discontinuity corresponding to hypoautofluorescence on fundus autofluorescence and blocking on fluorescein angiography. Multifocal electroretinography revealed subtle reduction in all amplitudes.

Conclusions

Retinal examinations should be considered for patients requiring chronic administration of deferasirox.
Study on scuffing failure of gas turbine ball bearing based on 3D mixed lubrication and dynamics
Authors: Feng Yan , Shi Xiu Jiang , Lu Xi Qun , Sun Wen , Liu Kun Peng , Fei Yun Fei
Published: April 2024

Ship gas turbine bearings are subjected to heavy loads and intricate interface micromorphologies, predominantly operate in a mixed lubrication regime. Excessive asperity relative sliding can cause transient high-temperature spikes at contact points, leading to scuffing failures. Dynamic parameters such as bearing friction and clearance, along with vibrations causing fluctuating velocities and loads, further influence the lubrication condition that, in its turn, can increase the risk of scuffing. This study focuses on oil-lubricated gas turbine bearings, accounting for their typical transient working conditions and real surface roughness. The coupling characteristics of ball bearing dynamics, lubrication, and flash temperature are explored. Findings indicate that the most severe contact conditions occur at azimuth angles of 0° and 360°. The risk of ball Scuffing failure exceeds that of the inner raceway. As axial load increases under the azimuth angle of 360°, the area with zero film thickness is increasing, elevating the chances of asperity contact, friction coefficient, and interface temperature, which is detrimental to lubrication. To mitigate pitting and scuffing failures, it's recommended to maintain the bearing's maximum hertz pressure below 1.21 GPa.
The effect of layout placement on acoustic conditions in call centers: Evaluations within the scope of an example
Authors: Özdem Gürtürk Semran , Yüğrük Akdağ Neşe
Published: April 2024

This article aimed to provide auditory comfort conditions in call centers where the noise problem is very high and its use is increasing day by day. Since there are no partition walls in such places, noises from conversations, telephones and other office equipment, footsteps, air conditioning and lighting, office equipment (fax machines, printers, etc.), and noise from outside can reduce working efficiency and sometimes cause serious health problems. To assess this situation, the current noise levels situation in a call center were revealed with the help of observation, survey, measurement, and simulation. The number of personnel in the volume, different layout models, surface absorption, and obstacle heights were analyzed through the simulation program and appropriate call center models were obtained in terms of acoustic comfort. By taking the models as a reference, noise level maps have been prepared according to different frequency spectrums. When the noise maps are evaluated, while the call center noise level is 60 dBA in the current situation, it has decreased to 45–53 dBA noise levels as a result of the settlement proposal where the employees are facing in opposite directions in pairs. There has been a reduction in noise level of approximately 16%. As a result of the study, the measures to be taken to improve the auditory environment were determined within the scope of architectural and acoustic design, and results were obtained to guide the designers.
Constructing decolonisation: the Greenland case and the birth of integration as decolonisation in the United Nations, 1946–1954
Authors: Jerris Frederik B.
Published: April 2024

How did it become possible for Denmark to integrate Greenland into the colonial metropole during anti-colonial post-Second World War multilateral diplomacy on decolonisation? Scholarship on the evolution of international society generally equates post-war political decolonisation with the universalisation of sovereign independence. This leaves unaddressed that a quarter of colonial territories did not emerge as sovereign states in post-war political decolonisation. Through multi-archival research, this articles starts to address this conundrum by tracing the emergence of integration into the colonial metropole as a route to political decolonisation in early multilateral diplomacy within the United Nations and how this option was first applied to Greenland. Entering the diplomatic engine room, I demonstrate the generative impact of Danish diplomatic practices and the constitutive importance of a discourse of Danish colonial exceptionalism to explain the legal emergence of decolonisation as integration by 1952 and Denmark’s ability to employ this option in the United Nations by 1954. The implications of the paper for scholarship on the evolution of international society go beyond uncovering the emergence of integration as a legal option in political decolonisation. Through its attention to everyday discursive negotiation and diplomatic practice, the article nuances extant scholarship by demonstrating that early post-war multilateral diplomacy was less a quick propagation of universal sovereignty than a contentious, ongoing, negotiation over the meaning and application of self-determination.
Competitive psychological climate and foreign language anxiety in junior high school learners in China: Roles of control-value appraisals, and cognitive reappraisal
Authors: Zhao Ting , Lian Xi
Published: April 2024

In recent years, competitive climate has increasingly prevailed in some Asian regions with large numbers of foreign language learners. It is thus important for teachers to understand the impact of this classroom environment on language learners’ emotions and to develop ways to effectively reduce any potential negative impact associated with the competitive climate. The present study aims to contribute to this under-studied but necessary line of research by focusing on the exploration of possible mechanisms underlying the relationship between competitive climate and foreign language anxiety. Specifically, we assessed the roles of control and extrinsic value appraisals as mediators in the relationship between competitive climate and anxiety levels. We also investigated the moderating role of cognitive reappraisal (a typical form of adaptive emotion regulation) in the relationship between competitive climate and cognitive appraisals/anxiety, and that of intrinsic value appraisal in the relationship between extrinsic value appraisal and anxiety. Data were collected from 1,138 junior high school-level learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) from six public schools situated in different cities in China. Results show that competitive climate was directly and positively related to foreign language anxiety, and this relationship was complementarily mediated via extrinsic value appraisal, but competitively mediated via control appraisal. Moderation analysis showed that intrinsic value appraisal negatively moderated the relationship between extrinsic value appraisal and anxiety. Cognitive reappraisal was shown to be a buffer against the relationship between competitive climate and anxiety. Results reveal the complexity and dynamics of the relationship between competitive climate and foreign language anxiety, and the conditions under which their relationship is strengthened or weakened. Based on our findings, discussion and pedagogical implications are provided as are the study’s limitations.
Long-term effects of exploratory practice on language learners
Authors: Hiratsuka Takaaki , Nall Matthew
Published: April 2024

Practitioner research plays a crucial role in education because of its applied nature and its ability to address pertinent issues within learning and teaching contexts. Exploratory practice (EP) is a form of practitioner research that emphasizes puzzles while striving to understand and improve students’ and teachers’ quality of life in the language classroom. Our puzzlement as EP practitioners began to take shape as we received a variety of feedback – both positive and negative – on our EP-infused lessons from our past students. Therefore, we started to ponder the enduring repercussions of an EP experience on participants’ subsequent learning and quality of life, extending beyond the immediate effects observed during EP. In the spring semester of 2022, 43 students enrolled in two courses on English for academic purposes (EAP) at two different Japanese universities participated in a 15-week EP endeavor. Six months after the course finished, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 students in order to systematically explore and discover how the EP endeavor affected them in the long-term. Findings revealed that the EP experience had lasting effects on the students’ affordance in three areas: linguistically, intrapersonally, and interpersonally. The article concludes by addressing the practical implications for EP practitioners, specifically focusing on inclusivity and sustainability.
Tactile transformation in flying airplanes: From hands-on to fingers-on aviation
Authors: McDonough Brian
Published: April 2024

Portable laptops, cell phones, touchscreen equipment and other mobile devices are changing the way commercial airplane pilots are handling information used for flying aircraft. Pilot expertise and skill are being transformed by a new approach in which fingertips are replacing traditional hands-on methods of controlling airplanes. Drawing on participatory and interview methods at a UK airbase, this article draws on ethnographic research with commercial pilots and pilot cadets, to trace the refashioning of cell phone media in an aviation context where touch-based computer screens replace traditional airplane technology. Drawing on Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenology, this article examines how the knowing, sensing and intuition through the hands allows for a particular sort of la prise (grip) which accustoms itself to the emergence of new tactile and human–computer interfaces.
A review on the fused deposition modelling of fibre-reinforced polymer composites: Influence of process parameters, pre-processing and post processing techniques
Authors: Naveen Kumar C , Venkatesan Subramani
Published: April 2024

Additive manufacturing is one of the latest manufacturing techniques that has gained universal recognition due to its material conservation nature. Fused deposition modelling (FDM) is an additive manufacturing technique that employs material extrusion to build components layer by layer. Thermoplastic polymers are used in FDM, and the components created are anisotropic and porous. Composite materials are used to improve the quality of the components. This article reviews recent research focused on the enhancement of the mechanical performance of composites produced by FDM. The influence of process parameters, type of fibre reinforcement (short and continuous fibres), pre-processing, process modification and post-processing techniques is analysed. Short fibres improved the mechanical performance of components, irrespective of the polymer matrix. Short fibres offered dimensional stability to the components, besides improving mechanical performance. Continuous fibres produce components with superior mechanical properties than short fibre composites. Continuous fibre reinforcement is the most effective reinforcement for fabricating structural and functional components in FDM. The importance of pre-processing, process modification and post-processing techniques in improving the mechanical characteristics of the components is discussed. In addition, this review identifies the significant challenges and perspectives for the future development of FDM technology in fibre-reinforced composites.
Insurgency in northeast Nigeria: Are journalists safe to report?
Authors: Pate Umaru A , Jibril Abubakar
Published: April 2024

This article interrogates the effectiveness of the safety measures available for journalists in the challenging operational environment. The researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 16 journalists representing different organisations from the conflict-prone areas in northeast Nigeria. Findings reveal that journalists operate at high risks due to the absence of protective mechanisms, rendering them highly vulnerable in threats situations. Also, journalists go through physical and psychological attacks from insurgents, the military, and the communities. Recommendations are offered to provide safety mechanisms to reduce journalists’ psychological trauma and physical stress, increase their feelings of safety, and improve the quality of their inputs.
Comparison of 3D Easy Box cone-beam computed tomography analysis with 2D Modified Easy Box on OPG as a prognostic tool for impacted maxillary canines: A pilot study
Authors: Dias Rochelle , Kanungo Himanshu , Gupta Mukesh , Mishra Kratika , Soni Akanksha , Jaiswal Aayush
Published: April 2024

Objective:

To assess and compare the validity of 2D modified Easy Box and measurement of the Beta angle on standard conventional orthopantomogram (OPG) versus 3D cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) OPG-constructed view.

Design:

A retrospective agreement study.

Methods:

The aim of this study was to construct an Easy Box on a standard conventional OPG and to validate this novel method by comparing it with the Easy Box method on 3D CBCT. After approval from the Ethics Committee, OPG and CBCT radiographs were obtained for the study from departmental records and five private practices in the same location (Indore, India). The radiographs were selected based on record availability and with written consent from the participants before the commencement of the study. The records were analysed to enable a comparison and to assess the accuracy of Easy Box construction on both 3D CBCT and standard conventional OPG radiographs. The location of the impacted canine within the Easy Box boundaries and the measurement of the Beta angle were determined on both views.

Results:

A perfect agreement was obtained for the comparison of 3D Easy Box CBCT analysis with 2D modified Easy Box on OPG for impacted maxillary canines (Kappa = 1.0). A Bland–Altman (LoA) analysis showed no proportional bias in the comparison of the Beta angle on 3D and 2D OPG radiographs.

Conclusion:

Beta angle and 2D modified Easy Box on a conventional OPG yield similar results when compared to Easy Box on 3D CBCT OPG-constructed view. The standard OPG was valuable and cost-effective, particularly in the early stages of diagnosis and treatment planning, either as a substitute or when CBCT was unavailable.
Periodontal outcomes of surgically exposed and orthodontically aligned buccally impacted maxillary canines: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Corrente Marina Nogueira de Castro Galvão , do Amaral Guilherme Castro Lima Silva , Ribeiro Rafael Costa , Pannuti Cláudio Mendes , Cavalcanti Laura Grein , Villar Cristina Cunha
Published: April 2024

Objective:

To compare the periodontal outcomes of surgically exposed and orthodontically aligned buccally impacted maxillary canines to spontaneously erupted maxillary canines.

Data sources:

An unrestricted search was carried out of indexed databases (Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science and Scopus), reference lists of included studies, and grey literature published until December 2023.

Data selection:

Observational and experimental studies that addressed the focused question ‘Do periodontal outcomes of buccally impacted maxillary canines that were surgically exposed and subsequently extruded and aligned using orthodontic alignment, differ from those of spontaneously erupted maxillary canines?’ were included.

Data extraction:

Study screening, selection and data extraction were performed independently by two authors, with disagreement resolved by a third reviewer. The risk of bias was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist and GRADE approach.

Results:

A total of 857 citations were found and five studies were eligible for inclusion. Supragingival plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation were similar between impacted canines and their contralaterals in most studies. Meta-analyses revealed no significant differences in keratinised tissue width (prospective studies: MD = −0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −1.13–0.56, I² = 78%; retrospective studies: MD = 0.61, 95% CI = −1.51–2.72, I² = 94%). However, a meta-analysis of prospective studies showed slightly greater mean probing depth for impacted canines compared to their contralateral canines (prospective studies: MD = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.04–0.28, I² = 0%). The evidence certainty for keratinised tissue width and probing depth outcomes was low.

Conclusion:

Surgically exposed and orthodontically aligned buccally impacted canines have slightly greater probing depths, potential bone loss and increased clinical crown length, compared to their counterparts. However, these small differences (<1 mm) are unlikely to be clinically significant.
Feasibility analysis of deep steep riser based on co-rotational coordinate method
Authors: Huang Chen , Gu Jijun , Jia Jichuan , Chen Leilei , Wang Shujiang
Published: April 2024

DSR (Deep steep riser) is a new riser structure that reduces the ultra-high-tension load caused by the riser self-weight. In this paper, the mechanical behavior of DSR under different buoyancy module configurations and different ocean currents is studied. The finite element model of DSR is established based on co-rotational coordinate method. The model is solved by arc length method. The accuracy of the numerical method is verified by Abaqus software. Then, the effects of buoyancy module length and buoyancy factor on DSR are analyzed. Finally, the influence of different current incidence angles and velocities on DSR is evaluated. The results show that the DSR model based on the co-rotational coordinate method can effectively simulate the nonlinear behavior of large deformation of DSR. The method is simple, flexible and computationally efficient. This method can quickly improve the efficiency of numerical calculation in static analysis of deepwater riser. And DSR is feasible under certain conditions.
International Schools and De-globalisation: Exploring the tensions during the Covid-19 crisis
Authors: Bailey Lucy , Gibson Mark T
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the thesis of de-globalisation in relation to international education. Through interrogating accounts of international school leadership during the Covid-19 crisis, the tension between international expectations and localised realities is charted, with four central tenets of internationalism undermined by the pandemic experience. It is argued that the Covid-19 crisis, ostensibly a single global event, resulted in the fractalisation of international education; the conceptualisation of unified internationalism was undermined by the inherently localised material effects of the pandemic. In place of an internationalism that is unified, transcendent, inclusive and connected, international school leaders’ accounts of leading through the pandemic focused on their sense that their schools were fractured, rooted, privileged and isolated. It is suggested that this international crisis demonstrates the precarious nature of the respatialising of the global that is intrinsic to international schooling.
Combined OLA1 and CLEC3B Gene Is a Prognostic Signature for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Impact Tumor Progression
Authors: Chen Zhoufeng , Zeng Liuwei , Chen Zhuoyan , Xu Jun , Zhang Xiangting , Ying Huiya , Zeng Yuan , Yu Fujun
Published: April 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), partly because of its complexity and high heterogeneity, has a poor prognosis and an extremely high mortality rate. In this study, mRNA sequencing expression profiles and relevant clinical data of HCC patients were gathered from different public databases. Kaplan–Meier survival curves as well as ROC curves validated that OLA1|CLEC3B was an independent predictor with better predictive capability of HCC prognosis compared to OLA1 and CLEC3B separately. Further, the cell transfection experiment verified that knockdown of OLA1 inhibited cell proliferation, facilitated apoptosis, and improved sensitivity of HCC cells to gemcitabine. In this study, the prognostic model of HCC composed of OLA1/CLEC3B genes was constructed and verified, and the prediction ability was favorable. A higher level of OLA1 along with a lower level of CEC3B is a sign of poor prognosis in HCC. We revealed a novel gene pair OLA1|CLEC3B overexpressed in HCC patients, which may serve as a promising independent predictor of HCC survival and an approach for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Things Go Wrong and the Captain Has to Handle it
Authors: Pritchett Amy R.
Published: April 2024

How to characterize automation failures? From the point of view of complex, multi-agent operations, I argue that their definition and modeling is the most useful when it accounts for the important drivers of operational performance and safety. This calls us beyond a focus on one-human, one-system performing one task, to a team simultaneously executing many activities in which things are always failing. Much of this activity is defined by the dynamics of the work environment, which can be modeled and predicted. Further, having a human legally responsible for the outcome of the automation’s actions significantly colors the dynamic.
Efficacy and safety of mechanochemical ablation versus laser ablation in the treatment of primary great saphenous vein reflux: A randomized, open, parallel controlled clinical trial
Authors: Chen Jie , Zhang Jianbin , Wang Qian , Chen Shu , Sun Mingsheng , Liu Peng , Ye Zhidong
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of a new mechanochemical ablation (MOCA) device versus endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) for primary great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux.

Materials and methods

Prospectively analyze the demographics, treatment detail and outcomes data of 57 primary GSV reflux patients. Patients were randomly assigned to MOCA or EVLA group with random envelope method. Primary endpoint was 6-month closure rate of GSV. Secondary endpoint including technical success rate, the venous clinical severity score (VCSS), chronic venous insufficiency questionnaire (CIVIQ-20) score and visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain.

Results

The procedures were well tolerated according to the VAS score. The 6-month closure rate was 85.71% in MOCA and 96.55% in EVLA group ( p = .194). Significant changes were observed in regard of VCSS and CIVIQ-20 score at 6-month follow-up. Skin paresthesia occurred in 0 in MOCA and 5 in EVLA group.

Conclusion

The new MOCA device is safe and effective in treating primary great saphenous vein reflux. The 6-month closure rate is non-inferior compared with EVLA. However, the long-term results need further follow-up.
Exploring the effects of age and gender on the relationship between psychological distance and worry about crime
Authors: Mellberg Jacques
Published: April 2024

Recent work has explored how psychological distance can shape individuals’ perceptions of crime risk in the absence of actual threats. However, it is not known whether age and gender, which are common correlates of fear of crime, influence the relationship between perceptions of psychological distance, and worry about crime. This study investigates whether there are differences among these demographic groups by analysing survey responses collected from N = 423 women and N = 296 men living in Queensland, Australia. Although on average women report higher levels of worry, there were no significant effects of gender or age on the relationship between psychological distance and worry about crime. Community wellbeing campaigns might not need to target different perceptions of psychological distance across audiences. Implications of these results and directions for further research are discussed.
A preliminary analysis of “Passport to practice”: investigating development of core competencies in undergraduate health promotion students
Authors: Blackford Krysten , Della Bona Malena , Crawford Gemma
Published: April 2024

Background:

Equipping tertiary health promotion students with skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to the health promotion workforce begins with enhancing their health promotion competence via well-designed curriculum. This includes a focus on work-integrated learning, global citizenship, professional identity and competency mapping in line with the International Union for Health Promotion and Education Core Competencies and Professional Standards for Health Promotion.

Methods:

In this paper we report baseline results for the Passport to Practice project, a mixed-methods prospective cohort study to track undergraduate health promotion student progress across their degree, to evaluate a new approach for assessing student achievement of the Competencies and Standards developed by the International Union for Health Promotion and Education. Baseline data were collected from first-year students via document analysis of student reflection papers ( n = 40); and an online survey ( n = 29) to measure self-reported health promotion competence, development of global citizenship and professional identity, and PebblePad usability.

Results:

Findings suggest the Passport to Practice initiative positively contributed to professional identity and health promotion competence. Students appreciated work-integrated learning opportunities that enabled them to plan for future activities to address gaps in their competence; and students excelled in the social responsibility dimension of global citizenship but lagged in the political voice category of the global civic engagement dimension.

Conclusion:

Findings provide insights about strategies and concepts required to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for their role as health promotion practitioners to address complex public health challenges.
Innovate and Validate: Design-Led Simulation Optimization to Test Centralized Registration Feasibility in a Multispecialty Clinic
Authors: Hosseini Maryam , Gittler Alice M. , Hoak Michael , Cogswell Jonathan , Khasawneh Mohammad T.
Published: April 2024

Objective:

This study utilizes a design-led simulation-optimization process (DLSO) to refine a hybrid registration model for a free-standing outpatient clinic. The goal is to assess the viability of employing DLSO for innovation support and highlight key factors influencing resource requirements.

Background:

Manual registration in healthcare causes delays, impacting patient services and resource allocation. This study addresses these challenges by optimizing a hybrid centralized registration and adopting technology for efficiency.

Method:

An iterative methodology with simulation optimization was designed to test a proof of concept. Configurations of four and five registration options within a hybrid centralized system were explored under preregistration adoption rates of 30% and 50%. Three self-service kiosks served as a baseline during concept design and test fits.

Results:

Centralized registration accommodated a daily throughput of 2,000 people with a 30% baseline preregistration rate. Assessing preregistration impact on seating capacity showed significant reductions in demand and floor census. For four check-in stations, a 30%–50% preregistration increase led to a 32% seating demand reduction and a 26% decrease in maximum floor census. With five stations, a 50% preregistration reduced seating demand by 23% and maximum floor census by 20%.

Conclusion:

Innovating introduces complexity and uncertainties requiring buy-in from diverse stakeholders. DLSO experimentation proves beneficial for validating novel concepts during design.
Optimizing Nurse Workflow Efficiency: An Examination of Nurse Walking Behavior and Space Accessibility in Medical Surgical Units
Authors: Zamani Zahra , Joy Theresa , Worley Jennifer
Published: April 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of spatial adjacencies on nurses’ walking patterns and the subsequent impact on staff satisfaction with perceived accessibility and adjacency-related issues.

Background:

Recognizing the crucial importance of spatial adjacencies in healthcare facilities is essential, as they significantly affect staff morale, fatigue management, operational efficiency, error reduction, and overall patient care excellence, highlighting the need for objective assessments to evaluate the impact of facility layout and space configuration on workflow patterns and staff satisfaction in patient care units.

Methods:

Integrating on-site observations with survey data, we explored how spatial adjacencies affect staff walking behavior and satisfaction in two med-surgical unit floors.

Results:

The findings highlighted a significant frequency of movements between nurse stations, patient rooms, and medication areas. Regression analysis identified several contributing factors to staff satisfaction, including the proximity of supplies, team visibility, ease of access across departments, and the location of equipment rooms. Specifically, satisfaction with the proximity of supplies was positively associated with increased provider satisfaction with workflow, quality of care, and workplace. Additionally, valuable feedback from staff revealed concerns regarding break room placement, medication area functionality, and disparities in the availability of supplies.

Conclusion:

This study highlighted the critical need for carefully planned spatial adjacency strategies to enhance workflow efficiency and raise clinical staff satisfaction within healthcare facilities. The actionable insights gleaned from this research offer valuable direction to architects, healthcare administrators, and design professionals, enabling the creation of environments that positively resonate with healthcare providers and improve healthcare operations.
Reversing the reversed congruency effect: directional salience overrides social significance in a spatial Stroop task
Authors: Tanaka Yoshihiko , Okubo Matia
Published: April 2024

In a spatial Stroop task, eye-gaze targets produce a reversed congruency effect (RCE) with faster responses when gaze direction and location are incongruent than congruent. On the other hand, non-social directional targets (e.g., arrows) elicit a spatial Stroop effect (SSE). The present study examined whether other social stimuli, such as head orientation, trigger the RCE. Participants judged the target direction of the head or the gaze while ignoring its location. While the gaze target replicated the RCE, the head target produced the SSE. Moreover, the head target facilitated the overall responses relative to the gaze target. These results suggest that the head, a salient directional feature, overrides the social significance. The RCE may be specific to gaze stimuli, not to social stimuli in general. The head and gaze information differentially affect our attentional mechanisms and enable us to bring about smooth social interactions.
WaveTel – Introduction of AutoRecharge
Authors: Ambust Nishant , Dewani Prem P
Published: April 2024

The WaveTel case concerns distribution channel management, technology adoption and NPD issues in the Indian telecom industry. WaveTel, part of the JBL group, is the largest telecom operator in India. It entered a competitive market in 2016 and quickly rose to the top spot on the back of cheap data and call rates and a strong 4G network. The case is set in 2021 when the company has introduced AutoRecharge – a technology solution that automates the selling of prepaid recharge balance from distributors to retailers. The primary decision point that the case protagonist, Diwakar Kumar, CEO of StratG – the consulting firm that helped conceptualize and develop AutoRecharge for WaveTel – faces is how to salvage a launch gone awry. Should he recommend that WaveTel proceed with the rollout? If yes, then how does he overcome channel resistance and conflict? Or should he recommend killing the solution and going back to the drawing board?
Prevalence and predictors of persistent low-level HIV viraemia: a retrospective cohort study among people receiving dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Onwah Ogheneuzuazo , Nwanja Esther , Akpan Uduak , Toyo Otoyo , Nwangeneh Chiagozie , Oyawola Babatunde , Idemudia Augustine , Olatunbosun Kolawole , Igboelina Onyeka , Ogundehin Dolapo , James Ezekiel , Onyedinachi Okezie , Adegboye Adeoye , Eyo Andy
Published: April 2024

Background:

Persistent low-level viraemia (PLLV) is a risk factor for virologic failure among people receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Objectives:

We assessed the prevalence and predictors of PLLV among individuals receiving Dolutegravir-based ART in southern Nigeria.

Design:

This retrospective cohort study used routine program data from electronic medical records of persons receiving Dolutegravir-based first-line ART in 154 PEPFAR/USAID-supported health facilities in Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers states, Nigeria.

Methods:

Clients on first-line Dolutegravir-based ART ⩾6 months, who had a viral load result in the 12 months preceding October 2021 (baseline), and a second viral load result by September 2022 were included. Persons with low-level viraemia (LLV) (viral load 51–999 copies/ml) received additional adherence support. The outcome analysed was PLLV (two consecutive LLV results). Indices were summarized using descriptive statistics, and predictors of PLLV were determined using multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

In total, 141,208 persons on ART were included, of which 63.3% ( n = 89,944) were females. The median age was 36 [29–44] years, median ART duration was 19 [11–42] months. At the end of the study, 10.5% (14,759/141,208) had initial LLV, 90.1% (13,304/14,759) of which attained undetectable viral load (⩽50 copies/ml), and 1.1% (163/14,759) transitioned to virologic failure (⩾1000 copies/ml) by the end of the study. PLLV prevalence was 0.9% (1292/141,208). Increasing ART duration [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.0; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.005–1.008; p < 0.001] and viral suppression (<1000 copies/ml) before initial LLV (aOR = 1.7; 95% CI: 1.50–2.00; p < 0.001) were positively associated with PLLV, while receipt of tuberculosis preventive therapy reduced the likelihood of PLLV (aOR = 0.3; 95% CI: 0.10–0.94; p = 0.039).

Conclusion:

PLLV was uncommon among individuals receiving dolutegravir-based ART and was associated with longer ART duration, prior viral suppression, and non-receipt of tuberculosis preventive therapy. This strengthens recommendations for continuous adherence support and comprehensive health services with ART, to prevent treatment failure.
Major depression mistaken as frontotemporal dementia due to PET scan
Authors: Bystad Martin , Grønli Ole , Wynn Rolf
Published: April 2024

Lesson

Clinicians should be aware that the hypometabolism associated with depression can mimic frontotemporal dementia on PET.
Cultural competence-based framework: A multilevel and multidimensional perspective on contemporary science culture
Authors: Minh Thai Thi , Osei-Amponsah Charity
Published: April 2024

This article presents a cultural competence-based (CCB) framework to analyse contemporary science culture. Starting from the observation that two separate views of culture-as-context and culture-as-practice cannot address the ongoing transitions in the contemporary sciences towards esoteric–exoteric trans-sphere governance and multicultural science, we introduce key ideas from ‘older’ varieties of competence-based culture theories. We argue that a spectrum of cultural and sociocultural systems shapes contemporary science culture by being (un)supportive of individual scientists acquiring cultural competence and guiding scientists’ research practices. In contrast, individual scientists’ cultural competence shapes the fabrication of cultural and sociocultural systems through their scientific practices, thereby shaping contemporary science cultures. We also synthesize different concepts of science culture, reflect the transitions in contemporary sciences and construct three dimensions of the cultural system, sociocultural system and cultural competence from various elements. By providing a conceptual framework that contributes to a better understanding and management of contemporary science culture, we hope to enhance effective work ethics and fit-for-purpose science knowledge to address emerging ‘wicked’ societal challenges.
Performance Tasks as a Mediator to Communicating in English and for Enhancing Language Learner Engagement
Authors: Toyoshima Saeko
Published: April 2024

This study examines whether technology-based performance tasks can mediate communicating in English and enhance language learner engagement. This study investigated how low-proficiency Japanese English-language learners could change their attitude toward communicating in their target language by completing a performance task that involved making and presenting a digital portfolio, requiring linguistic and contextual self-mediation. The study adopted a questionnaire with two types of questions: one type was scored on a three-point Likert scale and the other included open-ended questions about the performance task; the questionnaire was completed by 33 and 28 students in the first and second semesters, respectively. Data from the open-ended questions were analyzed qualitatively from a phenomenological perspective. Students’ comments showed that they positively engaged in the performance task throughout the two semesters by reflecting on themselves as English learners, with some difficulty mediating in their first and second languages.
Scrolling for Answers About Breast Implant Illness: Application of Validated Tools to Assess the Quality of Content on YouTube and TikTok
Authors: Via Ioschpe Anais Di , Roy Nikita , James Justin , Alexis Malory , Kim Esther , Oleru Olachi O. , Seyidova Nargiz , Henderson Peter W.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Popular video-sharing platforms YouTube and TikTok offer a plethora of information on the topic of breast implant illness (BII). As a largely patient-driven phenomenon, it is important to understand the influence of social media on patient knowledge regarding BII. This study sought to evaluate the quality, reliability, visibility, and popularity of YouTube and TikTok videos about BII. Methods: Two validated tools for health information, DISCERN and the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool (PEMAT), were utilized to evaluate the quality of information regarding the topic of BII on YouTube and TikTok. High DISCERN score indicates content of superior quality and reliability, while elevated PEMAT scores signify content that is easily understandable and actionable for viewers. The search phrase “breast implant illness” was used to screen videos, which were sorted based on relevance and view count. The first 100 videos that fulfilled inclusion criteria were independently graded by three reviewers. Results: TikTok videos of longer duration, a higher number of shares, and in the patient education category were all significantly associated with a higher total DISCERN score ( P < 0.05). YouTube videos that included a provider or a patient were significantly more likely to have a higher total DISCERN and PEMAT understandability score (all P < 0.05). Discussion of physician education, operation details, and patient experience was significantly associated with higher total DISCERN and PEMAT understandability scores (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: Total DISCERN and PEMAT scores for videos regarding BII on two popular social media platforms are low. Video length, patient experience categorization, and the presence of a provider are worth considering when developing high-quality online content for breast reconstruction and augmentation patients.