bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subjective Age and Loneliness in Older Adults: The Moderating Role of Attachment Patterns
Authors: Bergman Yoav S. , Faran Yifat , Caspi Eden , Klonover Eyal
Published: December 2023

Loneliness in older adults has been associated with a myriad of undesirable physical and psychological consequences, as well as with negative age and aging perceptions. However, little is known regarding the effect of individual differences in the ability to seek, maintain, and benefit from close relationships in this context. Accordingly, we examined the associations between subjective age (i.e., how old/young one feels vis-à-vis his/her chronological age; SA), attachment patterns, and loneliness. Data were collected from 840 older adults in Israel ( Mage = 74.75, SD = 5.50, range = 67–94), who provided information pertaining to SA, attachment anxiety/avoidance, and loneliness. Loneliness was associated with an older SA, as well as with high levels of attachment anxiety/avoidance. Moreover, the association between SA and loneliness was nullified for individuals with low levels of attachment anxiety/avoidance. The discussion highlights the importance of both age perceptions and attachment patterns for understanding the underlying mechanisms of late-life loneliness.
Persistent and Changing Food Insecurity Among Students at a Midwestern University is Associated With Behavioral and Mental Health Outcomes
Authors: Slotnick Melissa J. , Ansari Saba , Parnarouskis Lindsey , Gearhardt Ashley N. , Wolfson Julia A. , Leung Cindy W.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To assess associations between persistent and changing food insecurity and behavioral and mental health outcomes in college students.

Design

Online surveys conducted November 2018 and March 2019 (freshman year), and March 2020 (sophomore year) were used to assess food insecurity, which was then used to create 4 food security transitions: persistent food insecurity, emergent food insecurity, emergent food security, and persistent food security.

Setting

Large Midwestern university.

Sample

593 students completing all 3 surveys.

Measures

Dietary intake and behavioral and mental health outcomes (eating disorders, anxiety, depression, sleep quality) were assessed using validated instruments.

Analysis

Associations between food security transitions and dietary intake, behavioral, and mental health outcomes were examined using generalized linear models.

Results

Compared to persistent food security, emergent and persistent food insecurity was associated with lower (7% and 13% respectively) intake of fruits and vegetables combined; persistent food insecurity was associated with 17% lower intake of fruits, 6% lower intake of fiber and 10% higher intake of added sugar from beverages. Compared to persistent food secure students, eating disorder symptom risk was higher for emergent food insecure (OR = 7.61, 95% CI: 3.32, 17.48), and persistent food insecure (OR = 6.60, 95% CI: 2.60, 16.72) students; emergent (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.14, 3.71) and persistent (OR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.34, 4.87) food insecure students had higher odds of poor sleep quality, and persistent food insecure, emergent food insecure, and emergent food secure students had higher odds of anxiety and depression (OR range 2.35-2.85).

Conclusion

Food security transitions were associated with aspects of low diet quality and poorer behavioral and mental health outcomes among college students.
Intraoral Radiographic Interpretation Agreement Between Veterinary Students, Veterinary Dental Residents and Veterinary Dental Specialists
Authors: Feigin Kristina , Snyder Christopher , Tai Joyce , Stepaniuk Kevin , Hetzel Scott
Published: December 2023

This study evaluated observer variations in the interpretation of radiographic evidence for periodontal disease, tooth resorption, and endodontic disease in dogs. Forty dental radiographs were evaluated for 12 different parameters (periapical destruction of bone, wider than expected root canal, narrower than expected root canal, apical root resorption, loss of alveolar bone, external surface resorption, external replacement resorption, external inflammatory resorption, external cervical root resorption, internal surface resorption, internal replacement resorption, internal inflammatory resorption). Interpretations by 20 veterinary dentists, 10 veterinary dental residents, and 10 veterinary students were analyzed for consistency within groups and between groups by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs [95% CI]). Additionally, the agreement rate between groups compared to histopathological diagnosis, when available, and to a consensus group were evaluated. The results showed fair to good interobserver agreement for all participants when looking at all questions simultaneously (0.578 [0.515-0.635]) and with the consensus group (0.483 [0.451-0.517]). However, questions pertaining to various types of tooth resorption scored the lowest ICCs ranging from 0.005 (−0.311 to 0.321) to 0.189 (−0.105 to 0.402) across individual groups. Students had the lowest agreement compared to the consensus group for all questions (0.383 [0.347-0.421]) with fair to good agreement involving groups of residents (0.501 [0.465-0.538]), recently boarded diplomates (0.541 [0.506-0.578]), and more experienced diplomates (0.545 [0.510-0.582]). While dental radiographs are essential for clinical decision making, this study shows that interpretation of radiographs is highly subjective.
On transplanting Iberian LatinX
Authors: Blasco Eva Obregón
Published: December 2023

The translator of the articles originally written in Spanish for this special issue reflects on her work adapting these contributions into English, deliberately countering the invisibility to which the translation process and translators are often relegated. By disentangling not just the task of the translator, but also the path of the translator, the piece illuminates the junction between theory and practice through lived experiences. Points of inflection serve to throw light upon the ties that “root” community formations, or a multitude of dynamic local worlds. The author calls attention to her role and presence, suggesting the need to question outdated notions of translation as a transparent lexicographical exchange. Translation is approached as a situated practice, highlighting the translator’s role as a creator and producer of text.
All things PanchitX: Peanuts, biopolitics, and the Global South
Authors: Ugarte Ana
Published: December 2023

Exploring the genealogies, lexical ancestors, and uses of the term “Panchito,” this scrutiny delves into the vast cultural representations, popular attitudes, and othering discourse of this disparaging epithet for Latin Americans in Spain. The piece takes stock of the naming of othered Panchos in Spain, the United States, and Latin America––tapping into an Xness of the Global South where the lives of peanuts and peanuts as people intersect through the conceptual reduction and dismissal of humans and botanical life. Panchito originates as a racializing metaphor that compares Latin American persons with roasted peanuts, also called “panchitos” in Spain. Drawing from a posthumanist and materialist take on biopolitics, the essay unearths links among persons, peanut plants, animals, and sounds shaping PanchitX ontologies. The botanical properties of this grain legume, the history of peanuts’ connections to slavery, as well as peanuts’ strong presence as a Latin American “thing” in Global South imaginaries are all pursued here to provide occasions for new paradigms, insights, and questions on global LatinX cultures.
Critical thrust force prediction in unidirectional CFRP drilling: An analytical modeling approach
Authors: Patel Punit , Chaudhary Vijay
Published: December 2023

In recent trends, unidirectional carbon fiber laminates have been extensively used in the aviation sector due to their remarkable material properties. Delamination is a major damage introduced during drilling in composite laminates. One of the prime contributing factors for delamination-induced damages is considered as the thrust force. A mathematical model is proposed using an analytical approach for accurate prediction of the thrust force for the last lamina, which experience the most damage. The linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM), the classical bending plate theory (CPT) and the theory of elastic behavior of composite lamina are taken into consideration for the proposed analytical model because numerical prediction greatly depends on material properties and the nature of force as well. In the current research, the mathematical equation is proposed based on assumption of combined loading of drill tip and chisel edges for the elliptical delaminated area. The Mode-I interlaminar fracture toughness of unidirectional CFRP (CTC1-FUD160/CT-E556) is experimented with as per ASTM D5528 for better experimental substantiation of the proposed model. When the outcomes of the proposed model are compared with the experiment results and available literature as well, a plausible relationship between the suggested analytical model and the experimental results is found. The result also reveals that the contribution of the drill tip is more profound than the chisel edges of drill bit in drilling operations.
Modeling and braking analyses of longitudinal-vertical coupling towbarless aircraft taxiing system
Authors: Qi Kai , Wang Liwen , Zhang Wei , Zhu Hengjia
Published: December 2023

The variation of tire vertical load has effects on the vehicle braking performance, which may lead to the misjudgment of braking distance and increasement of the accident risks. In order to evaluate the braking distance of the towbarless aircraft taxiing system (TLATS) accurately, a longitudinal-vertical coupling model of the TLATS is established, in which the effects of the vertical vibration on braking dynamics is considered. An 11-degrees of freedom (DOF) dynamic model of the TLATS, which consists of the system longitudinal motion, vertical vibration, and an advanced Lugre tire model, is proposed. The tire vertical dynamic loads are obtained by calculating system vibration differential equations as the input for the Lugre tire model, in which an arbitrary pressure distribution function over the contact patch and load related parameters are used. The Lugre tire model parameters are identified based on the virtual experiment results in ADAMS/Car software through a multi-objective optimization (MOO) method. The proposed tire model is more accurate by comparing with the models using other pressure distribution functions. The advanced Lugre model is integrated into the longitudinal-vertical coupling dynamic model of the TLATS, and the fuzzy PID control method is used to achieve the optimal slip rate during the braking procedure. The tire friction and TLATS’s braking performances in terms of the slip rate, braking speed and braking distance are compared between the coupling and uncoupling models under different traction velocities and the road excitations when a same fuzzy control method is used for the system braking. The results show that the proposed longitudinal-vertical coupling TLATS dynamic model could assess the braking behaviors of the TLATS more accurately than the simplified uncoupling model, which could decrease the potential safety risk of the aircraft towing operation on the airport apron.
Processability investigation on underlying mechanism of LLDPE-based rotationally moulded banana fibre biocomposites
Authors: Ramkumar PL , Rupareliya Tilak , Jasani Shubh
Published: December 2023

Rotational moulding is a plastic manufacturing technique primarily used to create hollow items without stress. In the current work, the banana fibre in powder form is combined with linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) at concentrations ranging from 5% to 40% by weight. Several tests, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), melt flow index (MFI), water absorption, and differential scanning calorimetry, were carried out for three samples for each percentage and the average of those samples has been considered to support the requirements of processability for rotational moulding. The significance of LLDPE and banana fibre peaks can be seen in the 5–30 wt. % range, according to FTIR. The MFI test followed by FTIR results conferred a flow-ability ranging between 3.022 and 3.5 g/10 min for 5 to 15 wt.% which is considered to be appropriate. A water absorption test was conducted from 5 to 15 wt.% for the blend, it is observed as fibre content increases water absorption increases. Based on the analysis 15 wt. % sample has been discarded noting a high absorption rate of 7 wt. %. From the thermal analysis, the crystallisation temperature of 5% and 10% LLDPE/banana blend was found to be 110.20°C and 111.08°C, making it suitable for rotomouldability. From the testing results, it can be inferred that a banana fibre concentration of 10 wt. % or less in LLDPE is the optimal range for producing a blend with better processability for rotational moulding.
Vibration based damage detection for hybrid composite cantilever beam using finite element analysis and artificial neural network
Authors: Ravichandran Ashok , Mohanty Prases K
Published: December 2023

Damage in mechanical structure causes a change in its physical properties and it will affect the real-time application. Cracks in a structure that distressed in model parameters like mode shape, and natural frequency. Its need to the identification of damage early to avoid catastrophic failure and increase the life of the mechanical structure. In this paper, a model for natural fundamental vibration analysis of cantilever beam with the inclined crack with different depths and different locations has been presented. The natural frequency of crack reduces by an increase in crack depth. The performances of results have been verified with finite element analyses software ANSYS, Experimental analysis and finally compare results with a neural network.
Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve estimator for correlated right-censored time-to-event data
Authors: Beyene Kassu Mehari , Chen Ding-Geng
Published: December 2023

In clinical trials, evaluating the accuracy of risk scores (markers) derived from prognostic models for prediction of survival outcomes is of major concern. The time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve and the corresponding area under the receiver operating characteristic curve are appealing measures to evaluate the predictive accuracy. Several estimation methods have been proposed in the context of classical right-censored data which assumes the event time of individuals are independent. In many applications, however, this may not hold true if, for example, individuals belong to clusters or experience recurrent events. Estimates may be biased if this correlated nature is not taken into account. This paper is then aimed to fill this knowledge gap to introduce a time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve and the corresponding area under the receiver operating characteristic curve estimation method for right-censored data that take the correlated nature into account. In the proposed method, the unknown status of censored subjects is imputed using conditional survival functions given the marker and frailty of the subjects. An extensive simulation study is conducted to evaluate and demonstrate the finite sample performance of the proposed method. Finally, the proposed method is illustrated using two real-world examples of lung cancer and kidney disease.
Management of Critical Glucose Values in Hospice
Authors: Dakroub Belal , DiScala Sandra L. , Vartan Christine M. , Miller Maura F. , Silverman Michael , Chalavarya Swati
Published: December 2023

Objectives: This quality improvement (QI) project was to lean the process for managing critical high and low glucose levels in the hospice unit and to simplify the pharmacologic options for hypoglycemic management for nursing staff. Methods: The process for developing and refining the recommendations involved a modified Delphi approach with a team of key stakeholders with overlapping expertise in hospice care practice. Recommendations were based on literature review, judgement of experts, and clinical experience. Stakeholders ranked six potential solutions and two were prioritized within the scope of this project. Results: From 1/1/21 – 12/31/21, there were 48 veterans with insulin sliding scale orders in the hospice unit, of which there were six critical values acted on. A standard operating procedure (SOP) for the management of critical glucose values in hospice was developed based on updated processes. In addition, hospice patient specific insulin sliding scale order sets were created and endorsed for utilization and dissemination. Following implementation on 3/1/22, no critical values were found in the hospice unit from 3/1/22 – 6/1/22 during the sustainment period. Conclusions: The implementation of hospice insulin sliding scale order sets and SOP on the management of critical glucose values in hospice reduced the number of critical glucose values.
The Association Between an Electronic Health Record (EHR)–Embedded Frailty Index and Patient-Reported Outcomes Among Patients with Metastatic Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer on Immunotherapy: A Brief Report
Authors: Gabbard Jennifer , Nur Saadia , Levine Beverly J. , Lycan Thomas W. , Pajewski Nicholas , Frechman Erica , Callahan Kathryn E. , Klepin Heidi , McLouth Laurie E.
Published: December 2023

Background: While frailty is a well-established predictor of overall mortality among patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC), its association with patient-reported outcomes is not well-characterized. The goal of this study was to examine the association between an electronic frailty index (eFI) score and patient-reported outcome measures along with prognostic awareness among patients with mNSCLC receiving immunotherapy. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, patients with mNSCLC who were on immunotherapy completed the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC-QLQ-C30) and the National Cancer Institute Patient Reported Outcomes version of the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (PRO-CTCAE). We utilized bivariate analyses to compare quality of life, symptoms, supportive services, and prognostic awareness among 3 groups defined by e-frailty status. Results: Sixty patients (mean age 62.5 years, 75% Caucasian, 60% women) participated. Most patients were pre-frail (68%), with 13% being frail and 18% non-frail. Pre-frail and frail patients had significantly lower physical function scores (mean 83.9 fit vs 74.8 pre-frail vs 60.0 frail, P = .04) and higher rates of self-reported pain (75% frail vs 41.5% pre-frail vs 18.2% fit; P = .04) compared to non-frail patients. We found no differences in palliative referral rates. Conclusion: Pre-frail and frail mNSCLC patients identified by the eFI have higher rates of pain and physical functional impairments than non-frail patients. These findings highlight the importance of emphasizing preventive interventions targeting social needs, functional limitations, and pain management, especially among pre-frail patients to reduce further decline.
Impact of Unilateral Alveolar Bone Grafting on Nasal Volume and Nasolabial Surface: A 3D Analysis
Authors: Sijmons W.J.L. , Krijt L.L. , Bruggink R. , Ongkosuwito E.M. , Kuijpers M.A.R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine possible effects of unilateral alveolar cleft closure on internal nasal volume and external nasolabial surface.

Design

Retrospective, single-arm, cohort study.

Setting

Institutional, tertiary care.

Patients

Patients with complete unilateral cleft lip, alveolus, and palate (CUCLAP), who underwent closure of the alveolar cleft with autologous bone graft (ABG) at the age of 9–11 years, with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and/or three-dimensional (3D) stereophotogrammetry images taken before and one year after the ABG procedure.

Interventions

ABG-pocedure in patients with CUCLAP.

Main Outcome Measures

The influence of ABG on the internal and external nasal morphology.

Results

A total of 28 patients (21M/7F, 14R/14L) were divided into internal (CBCT) and external (3D-stereophotogrammetry) measurement subgroups. The external nasolabial surface showed a significant decrease of the angle alar curvature right–subnasale–alar curvature left (−1.99°; P = .02; 95% CI −2.61, −0.36) and an increase of the linear measurement between these points (+1.01 mm; P = .03; 95% CI: 0.11, 1.91). No significant differences were found when comparing the distance maps of the affected side with the non-affected side ( P = .50, 95% CI: −0.20, 0.29).

Conclusions

Closure of the alveolar cleft in CUCLAP patients with ABG did not affect the internal nasal volume, but significantly affected the external nasal surface. The procedure resulted in the nose becoming wider because both alar curvatures moved caudally and laterally relative to the subnasale.
Evaluation of a Novel Objective Method for The Assessment of Nasal Symmetry Among Patients with Unilateral Cleft Lip
Authors: Ezra Liron , Bar Droma Eitan , Baransi Aamer , Friger Michael , Silberstein Eldad
Published: December 2023

Objective

This is a cross sectional study aimed to asses novel semi objectve compter assisted method to asses the symmetry amog unilateral cleft lip patients.

Design

using Standard inferior view nose photos that were uploaded to Digimizer© Version 4.6.1 (2005–2016 MedCalc Software) Image Analysis, symmetry percentage was calculated and compared between cleft and non-cleft neonates. This method was compared to two subjective methods of rating symmetry.

Setting

This a cross sectional pilot study performed in the Univresity Medical Center using standard inferior views of unilateral cleft patients which were compared to non-cleft neonates.

Patients

Photographs of 71 neonates with unilateral complete and incomplete cleft lip and 30 neonates without facial cleft, which were born at the university medical center, Beer Sheba, Israel, were analyzed in a standard manner to determine nasal symmetry.

Main measures

the novel method proposed produced a nominal value for percentage of symmetry.

Results

Using Pearson's correlation test we found intra-rater reliability of 91.2% (p < 0.001) and Inter-rater reliability of 82.9% (p < 0.001). The analysis correlated with the surgeons subjective scores in both the numerical ranking method at 73% (p < 0.001) and 72.6% (p < 0.001) and the Ordinal ranking method at 87.6% (p < 0.001) and 77.7% (p < 0.001). The ability of the method to discriminate healthy from Cleft Lip patients overall was 92.3% With high sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions

This method accurately distinguishes healthy patients from cleft lip patients. We have achieved High levels of inter and intra-rater reliability. Significant correlations were found between our semiobjective method and the subjective scores.
Parents’ Experiences of Communication With School Nurses About Their Child's Weight Development in Sweden
Authors: Skantze Caroline , Almqvist-Tangen Gerd , Nyholm Maria , Karlsson Staffan
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to describe parents’ experiences of communication with school nurses concerning the growth data and weight development of their children aged 8 and 10 years old in Sweden. Eighteen interviews with parents were conducted and analyzed through qualitative content analysis. The result showed a need for improved dialogue where the parents viewed the health visit's purpose as unclear and lacked feedback . The parents desired access to their child's growth data and described the need for an improved channel for receiving information. The parents moreover experienced the lack of a child-centered perspective, described the child's context as not in focus, and desired collaboration around their child. This study shows the need for the development of evidence-based methods for communicating growth data and weight development between School Health Service (SHS) and parents, as well as the need for a reformed SHS perspective towards parents and children.
Adaptive impulsive synchronization for fractional-order quaternion-valued neural networks with different structures and unknown parameters
Authors: Zhang Xingpeng , He Dong
Published: December 2023

The synchronization issue between fractional-order quaternion-valued neural networks with different structures is more common than that with the same structure in the real world. This paper addresses the Mittag-Leffler stability and adaptive impulsive synchronization between two fractional-order quaternion-valued neural networks with different structures. We also propose two assumptions to analyze the parameters of the nonlinear activation functions. Based on the Mittag-Leffler stability and fractional-order Lyapunov direct method, an impulsive controller scheme is designed to ensure the global stability of fractional-order time-delay quaternion-valued neural networks. We also analyzed the situation when the self-feedback matrix and connection matrix of quaternion-valued fractional-order neural networks with different structures are unknown and designed adaptive impulsive controllers to achieve synchronization. Finally, we verified the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed theorem through numerical simulation experiments.
Recasting the gold standard – part I of II: delineating healthcare options across a continuum of care
Authors: Englar Ryane E
Published: December 2023

Aim

This is the first part of a two-part series on spectrum of care that encourages practitioners to embrace a non-binary approach to healthcare delivery. When care is not framed as all-or-none, either/or or best versus lesser, the provider and client can agree to diagnostic and/or treatment plans that individualize the practice of veterinary medicine. Care is tailored to the patient along a continuum of acceptable options. Care may also be intentionally incremental, with plans to reassess the patient and revise case management as needed.

Relevance

Acknowledgment and ultimately acceptance that patient care journeys can be distinct, yet equitably appropriate, offers providers the flexibility to adapt case management competently and confidently to the patient based upon contextualized circumstances including client needs, wants and expectations for healthcare outcomes. Thinking outside the box to recast the historic gold standard with a continuum of care strategically offers feline practitioners a means by which they can overcome barriers to healthcare delivery.

Series outline

This first article introduces spectrum of care as an appropriate approach to case management and broadens its definition beyond cost of care. Part II explores communication strategies that enhance veterinary professionals’ delivery of spectrum of care through open exchange of relationship-centered dialogue.
Comparison of optical aberrations in keratoconus with scleral versus rigid gas permeable lenses
Authors: Knoeri Juliette , Mhenni Rania , Friquet Chloé , Hage Alexandre , Cuyaubère Roxane , Borderie Marie , Leveziel Loïc , Bouheraoua Nacim , Borderie Vincent
Published: December 2023

Purpose

to assess optical aberrations under scleral (SL) versus rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses in patients with keratoconus.

Methods

A prospective study including 25 eyes of 14 patients. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) with corrective glasses, RGP and SL, stage of keratoconus (Amsler-Krumeich classification), minimum pachymetry, maximum keratometry, and corneal higher-order aberrations (i.e, total HOAs, coma, and trefoil) with RGP and with SL were collected. Aberrometry was performed using iTrace® aberrometer (Tracey Technologies, USA).

Results

80% of the included keratoconus patients were stage 4, with a mean age of 34.3 years (±8.8). There were no significant differences in mean BCVA (logMAR) between SL and RGP. The mean BCVAs were significantly better both with SL (p < 0.0001) and RGP (p < 0.0001) compared with corrective glasses. Total HOAs (p = 0.01), coma (p = 0.003) and trefoil (p = 0.008) were significantly lower with SL compared with RGP. The BCVA decreased with the stage of keratoconus in SL (p = 0.01) and RGP (p = 0.02). The BCVA decreased with decreasing minimum pachymetry in SL (p = 0.02) and RGP (p = 0.002), and with increasing maximum keratometry in SL (p = 0.02) and RGP (p = 0.01). Significant correlations were found between BCVA, total HOAs (p = 0.008), and coma (p = 0.02) in SL.

Conclusion

For the same keratoconus patients, total higher order, coma and trefoil optical aberrations were reduced with scleral lenses compared to rigid gas permeable lenses.
Investigation of the safety and effectiveness of accelerated contact lens-assisted corneal cross-linking (A-CACXL) in thin corneas
Authors: Karaca Gulderen , Yurttaser Ocak Serap
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To determine the safety and effectiveness of accelerated contact lens-assisted corneal crosslinking (A-CACXL) as an alternative method in progressive keratoconus patients with thin corneas.

Methods

In our retrospective study, 31 eyes from 25 patients with progressive keratoconus that with a minimum corneal thickness of 400 µm or less after epithelial debridement underwent A-CACXL with a follow-up 6 months or more were included. The main outcome measures were uncorrected distance(UDVA) and corrected distance(CDVA) visual acuities, manifest sphere(D) and manifest cylinder(D) refraction values, K1(D), K2(D), Kmax(D), mean keratometry(D) values, minimum corneal thickness(μm) and endothelial cell count(cells/mm2). These outcome measurements were statistically analyzed at preoperative and postoperative 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months follow-ups.

Results

31 eyes from 25 patients with the mean follow-up period of 7.7 ± 2.7 months were included. Data revealed a significant increase in CDVA(p = 0.053). There is no statistically significant change in UDVA, K1, mean keratometry, mean manifest sphere value, minimum corneal thickness and endothelial cell count .(respectively p:0.053, p: 0.333, p: 0,129, p:0.490, p: 0,467, p:0.035, p:0.102). There is a statistically significant decrease in the K2, Kmax and mean manifest cylinder values.(respectively p: 0,030, p < 0,001, p < 0,001).

Conclusion

A-CACXL method is a safe and effective method to stop keratoconic progression and improve functional vision in patients with thin corneas. However, larger randomised controlled studies are needed to validate these findings.
A phase 2a open-label clinical trial to determine the effect of famciclovir on EBV activity as measured by EBV shedding in the saliva of patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Dobson Ruth , Holden David , Vickaryous Nicola , Bestwick Jonathan , George Katila , Sayali Tatiana , Bianchi Lucia , Wafa Mohammad , Gold Julian , Giovannoni Gavin
Published: December 2023

Background:

Despite increasing evidence that Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) plays a causal role in MS, no treatments have been shown to reduce EBV turnover. We studied the effect of famciclovir on salivary EBV shedding in people with MS (NCT05283551) in a pilot, proof-of-concept study.

Methods:

People with MS receiving natalizumab provided weekly saliva samples for 12 weeks before starting famciclovir 500 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. Twelve saliva samples were provided on treatment and 12 following treatment. A real-time qPCR Taqman assay was used to detect EBV DNA in saliva. The proportion of saliva samples containing EBV DNA was compared using the Friedman test.

Results:

Of 30 participants (19 F; mean age 41 years; median EDSS 3.5), 29 received famciclovir, and 24 completed the 12-week course. Twenty-one participants provided at least one usable saliva sample in all epochs. Ten of the 21 had shedding in at least one sample pre-drug; 7/21 when taking famciclovir (not significant). No difference in EBV DNA copy number was seen. There were no drug-related serious adverse events.

Conclusion:

No significant effect of famciclovir on EBV shedding was seen in this small pilot study. Given the low numbers, a small effect of famciclovir cannot be excluded. Salivary EBV shedding in this natalizumab-treated cohort was lower than in previous studies, which requires replication.
Working with trauma-affected young people in secondary schools: Exploring ‘self-care’ with pre-service physical education teachers
Authors: Quarmby Thomas , Sandford Rachel , Gray Shirley , Hooper Oliver
Published: December 2023

Working with trauma-affected youth in physical education (PE) can be a challenging and, at times, stressful and emotionally demanding process. Whilst little is known about how student trauma affects in-service teachers, even less is known about how it might impact pre-service PE teachers. The aims of this paper are therefore to (1) explore pre-service PE teachers’ experiences of working with students affected by trauma, and (2) consider the potential implications of this for their well-being. Through an online professional learning programme, we worked with three distinct groups of pre-service PE teachers ( n = 22). The workshops generated data through individual activities and group tasks that allowed participants to reflect on their experiences. Findings revealed that pre-service teachers had several encounters during their school-based placements with young people who may have experienced trauma. These experiences were felt by the pre-service PE teachers – both emotionally and physically. Pre-service PE teachers were encouraged to develop self-care strategies; however, our participants indicated that this was not always easy to do. That said, pre-service PE teachers were able to describe some of the strategies they engaged with to take care of themselves and safeguard their own well-being. Many of these strategies were relational and involved spending time with others – such as school colleagues (teachers and/or mentors) – who were available to offer both practical and emotional guidance and support. Thus, our findings reinforce the importance of pre-service teachers learning about self-care and emotional regulation as part of initial teacher education courses.
Drivers of telemedicine in primary care clinics at a large academic medical centre
Authors: Parameswaran Vijaya , Koos Harrison , Kalwani Neil , Qureshi Lubna , Rosengaus Leah , Dash Rajesh , Scheinker David , Rodriguez Fatima , Johnson Cati-Brown , Stange Kurt , Aron David , Lyytinen Kalle , Sharp Christopher
Published: December 2023

Background

COVID-19 disrupted healthcare routines and prompted rapid telemedicine implementation. We investigated the drivers of visit modality selection (telemedicine versus in-person) in primary care clinics at an academic medical centre.

Methods

We used electronic medical record data from March 2020 to May 2022 from 13 primary care clinics ( N = 21,031 new, N = 207,292 return visits), with 55% overall telemedicine use. Hierarchical logistic regression and cross-validation methods were used to estimate the variation in visit modality explained by the patient, clinician and visit factors as measured by the mean-test area under the curve (AUC).

Results

There was significant variation in telemedicine use across clinicians (ranging from 0–100%) for the same visit diagnosis. The strongest predictors of telemedicine were the clinician seen for new visits (mean AUC of 0.79) and the primary visit diagnosis for return visits (0.77). Models based on all patient characteristics combined accounted for relatively little variation in modality selection, 0.54 for new and 0.58 for return visits, respectively. Amongst patient characteristics, males, patients over 65 years, Asians and patient's with non-English language preferences used less telemedicine; however, those using interpreter services used significantly more telemedicine.

Conclusion

Clinician seen and primary visit diagnoses were the best predictors of visit modality. The distinction between new and return visits and the minimal impact of patient characteristics on visit modality highlights the complexity of clinical care and warrants research approaches that go beyond linear models to uncover the emergent causal effects of specific technology features mediated by tasks, people and organisations.
Transgender and gender diverse youths’ experiences of healthcare: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Goulding Ryan , Goodwin John , O’Donovan Aine , Saab Mohamad M.
Published: December 2023

Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) populations are identified as high-risk for negative healthcare outcomes. Limited data exists on experiences of TGD youths in healthcare. The review aim is to systematically review literature on healthcare experiences of TGD youths. Seven electronic databases were systematically searched for relevant studies. Pre-determined eligibility criteria were used for inclusion with a double-screening approach. Sixteen studies were included. Studies included were quality appraised, data were extracted, and findings were synthesized narratively. Four narratives were identified including experiences of: accessing care, healthcare settings and services, healthcare providers, and healthcare interventions. Long waiting times, lack of competent providers, and fear were reported as challenges to accessing gender-affirming care. Negative experiences occurred in mental health services and primary care, while school counseling and gender clinics were affirming. Puberty blockers and hormone-replacement therapy were identified as protective factors. TGD youths are at risk of negative health outcomes due to an under resourced healthcare system. Further research is needed to assess interventions implemented to improve TGD youth’s experiences.
Time to drop the mounted: Reimagining a Royal Canadian Gendarmerie
Authors: Madsen Chris
Published: December 2023

As Canada's federal police service celebrates its 150th anniversary, the past and future of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police/Gendarmerie royale du Canada (RCMP/GRC) is coming under intense scrutiny. Dogged by historical legacies and endemic external and internal controversies, this national police service with military characteristics serves the Canadian state loyally and professionally. The anachronistic connection with horses in the English name has long outlived its usefulness and it is time that Canada's federal police service embraced more French, greater inclusivity in the ranks, better accountability and a functional approach to provision of national security policing at higher levels. A new refresh requires rebranding into a truly effective gendarmerie adequately manned, trained and equipped for the task, already anticipated in the French name. Refocusing on federal roles at the national level without the distraction of contract policing would give the RCMP/GRC greater purpose and coherence. The aligned symmetry of a Royal Canadian Gendarmerie/Gendarmerie royale du Canada (RCG/GRC) provides a basis for necessary change to happen and reconciliation to begin.
The experiences of people living with dementia and their care partners participating in an online therapeutic songwriting program
Authors: Clark Imogen , Christopher Neha , Stretton-Smith Phoebe , Lawson Kathleen
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Despite the impact of dementia on close care relationships, accessible therapeutic services for people living with dementia and their care partners remain scarce. Further, there is an increasing demand for online services, highlighting the need for ongoing telehealth research. This study aimed to explore the experiences of people living with dementia and their informal and formal care partners following participation in a 10-week online therapeutic songwriting program.

Methods

The songwriting program included four duo and six group sessions facilitated by a music therapist. Post-program semi-structured interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Nine people with dementia and six care partners (nine duos) participated in the program. Five duos were in spousal relationships and four people with dementia participated with a formal care partner. Participants attended an average of four duo sessions and three group sessions. Six people with dementia and five care partners participated in post-program interviews. Four themes were developed: (1) No one else does this; (2) It’s all about us as people; (3) After the sessions we’d come out buzzing; and (4) The journey was as important as the product.

Conclusions

Participants highlighted songwriting as a unique opportunity to connect with music, experience welcomed challenges, and spend ‘real time’ together. The program drew on participants’ lived experience and promoted connection with others, resulting in feelings of enjoyment, enhanced mood, and achievement. Participants valued both the songwriting process and song product, emphasising the importance of sensitive and skilful facilitation. Our findings suggest that these distinct benefits were not available through other support services. Further, online songwriting is a viable option for people living with dementia and their care partners where in-person sessions are not available or accessible.
Governing failed neoliberal subjects: Representations of women’s mental health in Australian mental health policies
Authors: O'Connor Caitlin Angela , Zufferey Carole , de Anstiss Helena
Published: December 2023

This paper uses Carol Bacchi’s ‘What’s the problem represented to be?’ (WPR) framework to explore representations of women’s mental health in federal and South Australian mental health policies. It argues that mental health policies govern women through neoliberal discourses that individualise mental health and illness while neglecting the social structural factors which significantly influence mental health outcomes and health equity. In a ‘self-monitoring’ neoliberal society, people are increasingly required to seek medical and pharmaceutical intervention to promote ideal personhoods, with women overrepresented in this group. The disciplinary power of the medicalisation discourse categorises women as either ideal or failed neoliberal subjects. This is concerning for social workers because neoliberal and medicalisation discourses shape how women’s mental health is represented in policy and responded to in practice. This paper challenges biomedical and neoliberal discourses underpinning policy representations and identifies the implications for social work and social policy.
To Enhance, or not to Enhance: The Situational Context Shapes Women's Intentions on Amount and Diligence of Makeup Application
Authors: Biesiadecka Malgorzata , Szymkow Aleksandra , Baryla Wieslaw
Published: December 2023

Makeup is a tool that women use to shape their image and gain benefits in both inter- and intrasexual selection. As makeup enables the hiding or enhancing of facial features, it allows women to strategically shape impressions in a given context. It affects interpersonal perceptions, workplace impressions, and can attract romantic partners. However, research has primarily focused on examining everyday makeup use, although the amount and type of makeup can vary depending on the situation and the motivation to make an impression. In two studies, we investigated how the intended amount and application of makeup differ depending on various situational contexts. Specifically, in Study 1 ( N = 533), we explored the everyday and party contexts, while in Study 2 ( N = 400), we additionally introduced the contexts of mating and threat. The results show that: 1) women intend to put on more makeup in a more diligent way in party contexts compared to everyday contexts, 2) the intended diligence of makeup application is the highest in contexts were women expect an attractive man to be present, and the lowest when a threatening context is introduced, 3) these effects are partially or fully mediated by women's motivation to make an impression, and 4) neither sociosexual orientation nor appearance orientation significantly moderated the obtained effects. Our studies extend previous research on makeup application as an appearance-enhancing or worsening strategy by further investigating the signaling function of women's makeup and its strategic use in various situational contexts. We discuss the results from a functional evolutionary perspective.
Enhancement of hydrophobicity in natural rubber vulcanizates using diatomaceous earth
Authors: Dissanayake Sachini Narmada , De Silva Kanishka , Egodage Shantha Maduwage , Blum Frank Dennis , Maddumaarachchi Madhubhashini
Published: December 2023

This study discusses an approach that gives the Natural Rubber (NR) vulcanizates an elevated hydrophobic character. The method used a chemically treated filler called diatomaceous earth (DE) to deliver the hydrophobic characteristics to NR. DE has a nanoscale roughness. It was chemically treated with hexadecyltrimethoxy silane to obtain low surface energy. The combination of nanoscale roughness and low surface energy gave superhydrophobic properties to DE. A series of treated-DE was made with varying silane percentages to find an optimum silane to DE ratio to get the maximum possible hydrophobicity. The optimum ratio was recorded as 38% w/w, and the treated DE displayed a superhydrophobic water contact angle (WCA) of 152°. The treated-DE was added to the rubber as a filler during the compounding process. The filler was added in varying amounts of 5 phr, 10 phr, 15 phr, and 20 phr to observe the changes in the hydrophobic property. The wettability and morphology of developed vulcanizates were measured using WCA measurements and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, respectively. NR compounded with 20 phr filler exhibited an enhanced WCA of 136°, compared to the WCA of 92° of the NR vulcanizate with no treated-DE, and displayed improved tensile, and tear properties.
Learning From Success Stories of Hmong Graduates: Overcoming Challenges and Fostering a Sense of Belonging on College Campuses
Authors: Vang Chue , Schademan Alfred R.
Published: December 2023

Considering the positive association of a sense of belonging to educational outcomes and lack of Hmong American educational research, this study sought to explore their success stories, sense of belonging, and challenges they surmounted to complete college. Participants identified as Hmong, were 18 years or older, and obtained their bachelor's degree between 2020 and 2022 from a California State University or University of California. The research employed a sequential mixed methods design that included a survey and follow-up interviews. Utilizing grounded theoretical and constant comparative analysis, four interrelated domains of student support that helped to improve Hmong student retention and completion were found: self, relationships, academic and nonacademic. We call this a dynamic, ecological model of support. For successful students, as one domain lacked support, other domain(s) offered increased levels to compensate, increasing the likelihood of retention and completion. Implications for institutions of higher education are discussed.