bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An interactive shared reading intervention designed for preverbal infants: A feasibility study exploring early language and cognitive development
Authors: Bergström Emma , Bratt Anna Sofia , Svensson Idor
Published: May 2024

Creating an environment suitable for language acquisition through shared reading significantly contributes to improving a child's language development and parent–child relationship. Reading in an interactive way, such as dialogic reading, is favorable. Nevertheless, dialogic reading is designed for children above the age of two and shared reading is recommended to start during the child's first year. The present study aimed to explore the feasibility of an interactive shared reading intervention, inspired by dialogic reading, where the reading techniques were designed to complement infants’ preverbal developmental level. The study further intended to explore its preliminary effect on infants’ cognitive and language development. Eleven parent–infant dyads participated, bi-monthly, in four in-depth intervention sessions where the shared reading techniques were modeled. Between sessions, parents and infants engaged in shared reading using these techniques. Post-intervention interviews served to reflect the feasibility of the intervention. Infant cognitive and language assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention using BAYLEY-III and CSBS DP ITC. Favorable results regarding feasibility and infant language development were found, however, for cognitive development the results were non-significant. We discuss clinical considerations and the scope for conducting future studies.
Immediate effect of extracorporeal shockwave therapy in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain: A randomised placebo-controlled triple-blind trial
Authors: Back Cláudio Gregório Nuernberg , Peron Rafaela , Lopes Camilla Vitória Rios , de Souza João Victor Estevam , Liebano Richard Eloin
Published: May 2024

Objective

To compare the immediate effects of shockwave therapy using two different tips in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.

Design

Randomised placebo-controlled study with three intervention groups.

Setting

The patients recruited for this study were sent for physiotherapy treatment at primary care between May and July 2022.

Participants

Eighty-one patients with chronic non-specific low back pain aged 18–80 years with pain for ≥3 months and pain intensity ≥3 were randomly recruited for the study.

Intervention

The patients received a single intervention of radial shockwave therapy with 2000 discharges at 100 mJ energy and 5 Hz frequency using concave or convex tips or placebo treatment.

Main measures

The primary outcome was pain intensity immediately post-intervention. The secondary outcomes were pressure pain threshold, temporal summation of pain, and functional performance. Data were collected at baseline and post-intervention.

Results

The post-intervention pain intensity in the concave tip group is an average of two points lower (95% CI = −3.6, −0.4; p < 0.01) than that in the placebo group. The post-intervention pressure pain threshold for the concave tip group was an average of 62.8 kPa higher (95% CI = 0.4, 125.1; p < 0.05) than for the convex tip group and 76.4 kPa higher (95% CI = 14, 138.7; p < 0.01) than in the placebo group.

Conclusion

The concave tip shockwave therapy is effective in reducing pain and local hyperalgesia in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain.
Collaborative Learning in K-12 Computational Thinking Education: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yin Stella Xin , Hoe-Lian Goh Dion , Quek Choon Lang
Published: May 2024

In the past decade, Computational Thinking (CT) education has received growing attention from researchers. Although many reviews have provided synthesized information on CT teaching and learning, few have paid particular attention to collaborative learning (CL) strategies. CL has been widely implemented in CT classes and has become the most popular pedagogy among educators. Therefore, a systematic review of CL in CT classes would provide practical guidance on teaching strategies to enhance CT interventions and improve the quality of teaching and learning, ultimately benefiting students’ CT skills development. To address this gap, this study examined 43 empirical studies that have applied CL strategies, ranging from 2006 to 2022. Several findings were revealed in the analysis. First, a wide range of theories and frameworks were applied to inform research questions, pedagogical design, and research methodologies. Second, despite the acknowledged importance of group composition in effective CL, a large number of studies did not provide details on how the students were grouped. Third, six types of CL activities and instructional designs have been identified in CT classrooms. The synthesized information provides valuable insights that can inform future research directions and guide the design and implementation of CL activities in future CT classes.
Outcomes of High-Dose Versus Low-Dose Vitamin D on Prognosis of Sepsis Requiring Mechanical Ventilation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ashoor Tarek Mohamed , Abd Elazim Abd Elmoniem Hassan , Mustafa Zakaria Abd Elaziz , Anwar Maha Ahmad , Gad Ihab Ahmad , Mamdouh Esmat Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

Background: Critically ill patients with sepsis have a high incidence of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D promotes the synthesis of human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, a precursor of LL-37, which is a part of the innate immune system. This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of the early administration of high-dose enteral vitamin D3 in comparison with low-dose vitamin D3 in patients with sepsis requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). Methods: Eighty adult patients with sepsis requiring MV with known vitamin D deficiency were randomly assigned to receive either an enteral 50 000 IU (Group I) or 5000 IU (Group II) vitamin D supplementation. Clinical and laboratory parameters were evaluated at baseline and on days 4 and 7 between the study groups. The change in serum procalcitonin (PCT) levels on day 7 was the primary outcome, while the change in serum LL-37 levels on day 7, changes in sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, and clinical pulmonary infection score on day 7, MV duration, and hospital length of stay (LOS) were the secondary outcomes. Results: The (day 7-day 0) change in serum PCT and LL-37 levels and SOFA score were significantly different in Group I ( P = .010, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively). The SOFA score was significantly different on days 4 and 7 in Group I ( P < .001 and P < .001, respectively). The incidence of early ventilator-associated pneumonia was significantly different between both treatment groups ( P = .025). The hospital LOS was shorter in Group I ( P < .001). No 25-hydroxyvitamin-D toxicity was observed in either group. Conclusions: Early enteral administration of high-dose vitamin D3 in critically ill patients with sepsis requiring MV along with standard treatment for sepsis decreased serum procalcitonin levels, increased serum LL-37 levels, and ameliorated illness severity scores.
Coping with gendered racism in the British healthcare sector: A feminist and phenomenological approach
Authors: Edeh Nkechinyelu Ann , Kokot-Blamey Patrizia , Riley Sarah
Published: May 2024

The UK National Health Service (NHS) is one of the largest employers in the world and relies heavily on Black migrant women. Nonetheless, reports of (gendered) racism persist. This phenomenologically inspired qualitative study shares findings from empirical interview data with female Nigerian doctors and nurses working in the NHS, with a specific focus on how these women cope with the racism and gendered racism they experience in their everyday working lives. The analysis shows the extent to which they perceive the coping strategies available to them to be limited, with problem-based solutions focused on relocating themselves into geographical, professional, or organisational spaces where acute staffing shortages may curb employers’ tendency towards discrimination in recruitment and advancement. Emotion-based strategies employed were often faith-based, or relied on their national identity and understandings of what it means to be Nigerian/a Nigerian woman. The article critically considers the power differentials endemic in employment that limit these women to individualised coping strategies which ultimately result in their isolation, a known stressor itself, creating a self-perpetuating vicious circle of gendered racism.
Acupuncture in the treatment of cocaine addiction: how does it work?
Authors: Sun Luqiang , Wang Haichuan
Published: May 2024

Cocaine is a frequently abused and highly addictive drug that damages brain health and imposes substantial social and economic costs. Acupuncture has been used in the treatment of cocaine addiction and has been shown to improve abnormal mental and motor states. This article mainly focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms involving the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) that underlie the effects of acupuncture in the treatment of cocaine addiction. The central dopamine system is a key player in acupuncture treatment of cocaine addiction; the ventral tegmental area (VTA)—nucleus accumbens (NAc) signaling pathway, which has a modulatory influence on behavior and psychology after chronic use of cocaine, is a significant target of acupuncture action. Moreover, acupuncture alleviates cocaine-induced seizures or acute psychomotor responses through the paraventricular thalamus and the lateral habenula (LHb)—rostromedial tegmental (RMTg) nucleus circuits. The data suggest that acupuncture can impact various cocaine-induced issues via stimulation of diverse brain areas; nevertheless, the interconnection of these brain regions and the PNS mechanisms involved remain unknown. In this review, we also discuss the effects of specific acupuncture protocols on cocaine addiction and note that variations in needling modalities, current intensities and traditional acupuncture point locations have led to different experimental results. Therefore, standardized acupuncture protocols (with respect to stimulation methods, point locations and number of sessions) may become particularly important in future studies.
Open Innovation Signals: Exploring the Financial Data with Patents
Authors: Yun Jinhyo Joseph , Kim Bong hwan , Zhao Xiaofei , Jeong Euiseob , Ahn Joong gi
Published: May 2024

The study aims to explore how to measure firms’ open innovation from financial statements. So, our research question is as follows: How can we determine firms’ open innovation signals directly or indirectly from financial statements? This study used data from the US financial statements and patent registration database from 2016 to 2018 to answer this research question. Three manifest signals of open innovation in financial data were found. First, subsidiary or related firm investment in financial data may have a negative relationship with open innovation because open innovation (i.e., the co-application of patents) could decrease subsidiary or related firm investment. But there are differences between the top and bottom twenty firms. Second, internal R&D investment (I R&D) in financial data may have a positive relationship with open innovation because I R&D could trigger inward open innovation. If I R&D combines with an open innovation strategy, it increases the size of subsidiary or related firm investment as a kind of inward open innovation. Third, free cash flow (FCF) in financial data may have a positive relationship with open innovation because high FCF could support outward open innovation.
Examining the Influence of  Consumer-level Psychological  Factors on Green Purchase  Behaviour: Analyzing  Socio-demographic Aspects Among Indian Millennials
Authors: Mishra Amanpreet Kaur , Farooqi Rahela
Published: May 2024

This study aims to examine the influence of consumer-level psychological factors like affordability, availability, awareness and apprehension on green purchase behaviour among Indian Millennials while buying fast-moving consumer goods. 651 responses were analyzed on SmartPLS 4, and was it found that affordability, awareness and availability had a significant positive impact on green purchase behaviour, while apprehension did not show any significant impact. To increase green purchase behaviour, managers should make eco-friendly products affordable and widely available while promoting consumer awareness. As per the results, addressing consumer apprehension is not a significant factor in influencing green purchase behaviour, which indicates that managers need not worry much about addressing consumer fears while promoting green products. Though the study found no significant difference in green purchase behaviour between genders; education, occupation and income groups showed significant differences in purchase behaviour. This nuanced understanding offers companies and marketers a foundation to craft targeted marketing strategies aimed at encouraging the Indian Millennials to choose sustainable options in their consumer habits.
Conducting Psychodynamic Therapy with Children and Youth: Some Thoughts for the Modern Clinician
Authors: Agrawal Himanshu
Published: May 2024

Clinicians working with children and adolescents must remain dynamic (“zestful, energetic, open to constant change”) while exploring the psychodynamics inherent within the patient-clinician dyad. Cultural climates and trends are constantly changing, and as communications improve in the digital era, the enormity of information makes it difficult to stay up to date. The author shares some opinions and observations he has learnt in his practice of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy with children and teenagers.
Care as a strategy to navigate political tensions within the China–Norway sports coaching collaboration
Authors: Tjønndal Anne , Haugen Heidi Østbø
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the experiences of Norwegian coaches involved in a winter sports collaboration between Norway and China leading up to the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. Our analysis delves into the complexities of coach–athlete relationships in collaborations between nations with vastly different sports systems and cultures. Methodologically, the study is based on qualitative interviews with Norwegian coaches involved in the collaboration. Emphasizing the concept of “care,” we examine how Norwegian coaches navigated the cultural, bureaucratic, and political tensions that encompassed their relations with the Chinese winter sports athletes. The findings reveal that prioritizing care and athlete welfare serves not only as a coaching philosophy for the Norwegian coaches, but also as both a shield and a justification for their involvement, effectively sidelining broader ethical, and political considerations in the Norway–China winter sports collaboration. This research contributes to understanding the dynamics of international sports collaborations and coaches’ strategies for maintaining integrity while engaging in international partnerships marked by different values and traditions.
“Now she has everything, a happy family story and an Olympic medal”: Representations of Gloria Kotnik in the Slovenian media landscape
Authors: Poteko Kaja , Doupona Mojca
Published: May 2024

Over the last four decades, feminist sports media research has developed into an established transdisciplinary branch of research that contributes to highlighting the contradictions and unevenness of social change at the level of women's sports and its positioning in society. In this context, the increasing media visibility of athlete mothers as an expression of an emerging social phenomenon provides an opportunity to examine and reflect on the patterns of media portrayal of sportswomen. This article focuses on the media representations of Gloria Kotnik, the Slovenian snowboarder and bronze medalist at the 2022 Winter Olympics. Through textual analysis, it attempts to identify how Kotnik was portrayed in selected Slovenian media and what role her motherhood, in particular, played in this. While ambivalence was identified as a predominant pattern in the media representations of Kotnik, the role of motherhood was presented both as something seemingly incompatible with the role of an elite athlete and in a way that perceived these two roles as compatible. Due to the reproduction of traditional gender ideologies and hierarchies, the article problematizes both patterns and concludes by linking the desire for social change with the need to redefine the ethics of care.
Spectator racism in three professional men's football codes in Australia: Observations from White spectators
Authors: Cleland Jamie , Adair Daryl , Parry Keith , MacDonald Connor
Published: May 2024

This article explores spectator racism across three high-profile professional men's football codes in Australia (Australian Football League, National Rugby League and the A-League). To pursue this goal, the study conducted an online survey from April 2021 to June 2021, securing 2047 responses. Our focus in this article centres on those participants who self-identified as White to gather their insights on racism as they witnessed and understood it being expressed in the context of attending a professional men's football code match in Australia. Applying Pierre Bourdieu's concept of habitus to theorise why some White spectators overtly express racist language and behaviour, our findings indicated the resilience of Whiteness as a source of power and domination, with many White participants reporting they had witnessed racial bigotry in recent years. Concurrently, many demonstrated anti-racist sensibilities, expressing frustration that change has been limited, if at all. Some participants suggested racism is an individual failing rather than being subject to institutions and community norms. From that perspective, racism is viewed as a personal choice rather than a failure of society.
Spontaneous intoxication of sheep by the pollen beetle Astylus atromaculatus: 4 outbreaks in Uruguay and Argentina
Authors: Matto Carolina , García Juan Agustín , Livio Juan Manuel , Rodríguez Víctor , Gianneechini Edgardo , Giannitti Federico , García y Santos Carmen , Corro Ana Cecilia , Dutra Fernando , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: May 2024

Astylus atromaculatus Blanchard is a native beetle of South America that feeds on pollen. During the summer of 2022–2023 in Argentina and Uruguay, an explosive infestation of these insects occurred in pastures in which ruminants were grazing. This was believed to be associated with a severe drought, which had significantly reduced the flowering of crops. Three farms in Uruguay and one in Argentina were visited to examine the flocks and perform autopsies. Affected sheep had watery diarrhea, anorexia, depression, and ruminal atony. The average morbidity, mortality, and case fatality rates were 7.5%, 4.3%, and 68%, respectively. The main gross findings in all animals were in the jejunum; the serosa had multifocal hemorrhages, and the mucosa was necrotic and covered by a pseudomembrane. Microscopically, the mucosa had partial-to-complete necrosis of the lamina propria, as well as loss of villus and crypt epithelium with neutrophilic infiltration. Overlying the necrotic mucosa was a pseudomembrane of fibrin, cell debris, desquamated epithelial cells, degenerate neutrophils, and bacteria. Many specimens of A. atromaculatus were in all paddocks in which sheep grazed, as well as in the ruminal content of the autopsied animals.
Examining the Factors Affecting Parental Supervision in Cyberbullying Prevention: Demographics, Parental Mediation, and Digital Parenting Awareness
Authors: Durak Aykut , Durak Hatice Yildiz , Saritepeci Mustafa , Dilmaç Bülent
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to determine the current situation regarding cyberbullying and parental supervision and the relationship between positive parental involvement and various variables. Data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results revealed a relationship between parental supervision in cyberbullying prevention (PSCP) and digital parenting awareness, active mediation, content-specific restrictive interventions, and supervision. In elementary schools, co-use and content-specific restrictions are statistically significant predictors of parental supervision. In contrast, active mediation and parental role were statistically significant predictors for middle- and high-school students. Moreover, the effect of digital parenting awareness on supervision was statistically significant for both groups. For parents under 45 years of age, content-focused restrictions and digital parenting awareness were effective, whereas no effect was observed in those aged 45 years or above. Active mediation was effective in both age groups.
Transgender and Gender-Diverse Child and Parent Close Relationships
Authors: Tyler Tee R. , Huddleston Boglarka S. , Kronner Henry W. , Calloway Emily T. , Martin Kimberly G. , Morgan Amber L. , Aguilar René , Wheeler Sydney A. , Barnett Farren A. , Kohring Caroline L. , Spaeth Cassidy M. , Abbott Kendall G. , Preston Mackenzie , Barton Taylor N. , Thornton Morgan H. , Munoz Valeria , Dean Dimia E.
Published: May 2024

Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) children are impacted by their relationships with their parents. Parental influence can positively and/or negatively influence TGD children’s well-being. The purpose of this study is to: (a) summarize qualitative research addressing parent–TGD child relationships and (b) share these results with mental health professionals and researchers working to enhance the well-being of TGD children. We employed a qualitative metasummary to review qualitative research with findings about relationships between parents and their TGD children, with data from TGD children. We focused on parent and TGD child relationships after their initial disclosure/discovery conversations. Data collection resulted in 27 articles. Data analysis yielded three themes: parent and child together, child-specific experiences, and parent-specific experiences. This report concludes with practice implications for mental health professionals.
Developing Student Metacognition Through Collaborative Work on the Quip Platform
Authors: Malik Umit
Published: May 2024

The main goal of this scientific research is to study the effectiveness of the practical application of the collaboration model, which is based on the cognitive and metacognitive activity of students, using the public Quip platform, accompanied by metacognitive training to develop students’ metacognition. The educational experiment was conducted with the participation of first-year master's students within the framework of the "Pedagogy and Psychology" educational program. The ascertaining tool was the group metacognition scale (GMS) questionnaire. Results were obtained demonstrating the positive impact of the considered format of teaching students on the development of metacognition, as evidenced by the results of the Group Metacognition Scale.
Fracture mechanics approach to minimum reinforcement design of fibre-reinforced and hybrid-reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Rubino Alessio , Accornero Federico , Carpinteri Alberto
Published: May 2024

The problem of the minimum reinforcement condition in fibre-reinforced and hybrid-reinforced concrete flexural elements is addressed in the framework of fracture mechanics by means of the Updated Bridged Crack Model (UBCM). The model describes the crack propagation process occurring in the critical cross-section of the reinforced member, by assuming the composite as a multiphase material, whereby the toughening contribution of the cementitious matrix and of the reinforcements are independently evaluated. The key-point of the discussion is that, when the influence of the matrix nonlinearities on the response is neglected, the minimum reinforcement condition is defined by a linear relationship between the critical values of two dimensionless numbers: (i) the bar- reinforcement brittleness number, NP , proportional to the steel-bar area percentage, ρ; (ii) the fibre- reinforcement brittleness number, NP,f, proportional to the fibre volume fraction, Vf. The model is applied to several experimental campaigns of the literature, in order to assess its suitability in the minimum reinforcement design of reinforced members in a unified fracture mechanics-based framework.
When the Messengers Are Targets of Terrorism: Restricted Media, State and Domestic Terrorism
Authors: Ghatak Sambuddha , Ghatak Atreya
Published: May 2024

Terrorist organizations are argued to have a symbiotic relationship with media. Despite the mutually beneficial relationship, media personnel and media outlets are frequently targeted by terrorist organizations across the world. This study explores this puzzle by arguing that the symbiotic relationship between media and terrorism is conditioned by the level of restrictions a state exercises on the media. State restrictions diminish media's utility to the terrorists who would view the restricted media as a proxy for the state, prompting the groups would attack the media targets and deliver a political message to the state. This conjecture is tested on a global cross-national dataset of domestic terrorism between 1970 and 2012, showing strong support for the hypothesized positive relation between media restrictions and terrorist attacks on media targets.
Linguistic Analysis of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury Reddit Posts: Implications for Family Therapy
Authors: Greaves Mandy M. , Dykeman Cass
Published: May 2024

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a growing phenomenon, yet there is still a limited understanding of the behavior, intent behind the behavior and what individuals themselves say about their behavior. This study collected pro-NSSI public blog posts from Reddit and analyzed the content linguistically using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count software, to examine the use of NSSI specific words, linguistic and psychological linguistic properties. The results inform current mental health practices by dispelling myths and providing insight into the inner world of people who engage in NSSI. The linguistic properties found in the analysis reflected the predicted results; authors of pro-NSSI posts used first-person singular pronouns extensively, indicating high levels of mental health distress and isolation. This study demonstrates how understanding the language of self-harm can help inform mental health treatment using family therapy.
A hierarchical LFFC control scheme for underactuated unmanned surface vessels based on unreliable communication interaction
Authors: Cao Biao , Huang Bing , Miao Jianming , Zhuang Jiayuan , Su Yumin
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the leader-follower formation-containment (LFFC) control issue of underactuated unmanned surface vessels (USVs) system subject to unreliable communication interaction and the external disturbances. Firstly, an adaptive control scheme is established for the leaders to track the desired trajectory associated with preset formation configuration. Subsequently, by means of convex hull theory, a formation-containment control algorithm is developed to guide the followers into the specific area generated by the leaders. Nevertheless, the communication interaction among USVs is frequently unreliable, which is constrained by communication distance, equipment quality, and indeterminate cyber-attack. Worse still, this unreliability will magnify the unpredictable impact on system stability. Moreover, the signals generally undergo multilevel transmission from virtual leader to followers under LFFC structure, which will result in the amplification of unreliable ratio during the information transmissions. To address the aforementioned issues, an online-update auxiliary signal is constructed through the quasi-sliding mode manifold, which can suppress the impact of unreliable communication interaction. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations are demonstrated to verify the feasibility and validity of the proposed control strategies.
Hostile Masculinity, Male Peer Support for Violence, and Problematic Anger: Linking Childhood Abuse to Men's Partner Violence Perpetration
Authors: Sutton Tara E.
Published: May 2024

Child abuse and masculinity have been linked to intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration. However, there is a lack of work examining multiple aspects of masculinity as links between early abuse experiences and men's IPV perpetration. Grounded in notions of gendered power and patriarchy, this study aimed to examine hostile masculinity, male peer support for violence against women, and problematic anger as aspects of masculinity connecting childhood victimization and men's violence against women. Structural equation modeling results demonstrated that childhood adversity was indirectly related to IPV perpetration via the proposed factors. However, various patterns emerged based on the type of childhood abuse experienced. Practice-based implications are offered.
Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Medical Direction of Search and Rescue Teams
Authors: Davis Christopher A. , Lowry Cassie , Billin Aaron , Laskowski-Jones Linda , Sheets Alison , Fifer David , Hawkins Seth C.
Published: May 2024

The Wilderness Medical Society convened a panel to review available evidence supporting practices for medical direction of search and rescue teams. This panel included of members of the Wilderness Medical Society Search and Rescue Committee, the National Association of EMS Physicians Wilderness Committee, and leadership of the Mountain Rescue Association. Literature about definitions and terminology, epidemiology, currently accepted best practices, and regulatory and legal considerations was reviewed. The panel graded available evidence supporting practices according to the American College of Chest Physicians criteria and then made recommendations based on that evidence. Recommendations were based on the panel's collective clinical experience and judgment when published evidence was lacking.
Gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy as a primary surgical option for glaucoma in Fuchs uveitis syndrome: A case series
Authors: Gunay Murat , Turk Adem , Kurt Ibrahim Mert , Uzlu Dilek , Kose Busra , Yildirim Yusuf
Published: May 2024

Background

Fuchs uveitis syndrome (FUS) is a chronic intraocular inflammatory disease. It can lead to glaucoma which can be intractable to both medical and surgical treatment. In the present report, we describe our experience with GATT as a primary surgical option in the treatment of glaucoma secondary to FUS.

Results

Four consecutive patients with FUS-associated glaucoma underwent GATT in a single institution. Case 1 was a 28-year-old pseudophakic male with a preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) of 43 mmHg had unsuccessful circumferential cannulation; his IOP remained high after GATT and received trabeculectomy followed by Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation to control IOP. Although IOP was stable following AGV, he required descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty due to persistent corneal decompansation. He had a stable IOP of 12 mmHg over 21 months. Case 2 was a 42-year-old male with preoperative IOP of 35 mmHg and posterior subcapsular cataract had 360-degree GATT combined with phacoemulsification; his IOP reduced to 14 mmHg over 18 months. Case 3 was an 52-year-old pseudophakic male with a preoperative IOP of 28 mmHg had 360-degree GATT; his IOP remained stable at 10 mmHg over 18 months. Case 4 was an 47-year-old pseudophakic female with a preoperative IOP of 39 mmHg had 360-degree GATT; her IOP remained stable at 14 mmHg over 12 months.

Conclusion

GATT may be used as an initial approach in secondary glaucoma due to FUS. But, further evidence is still warranted to better ascertain the usefulness of GATT in this specific patient population.
3D Heads-up digital filters for cataract surgery and corneal transplantation
Authors: Mosca Luigi , Scartozzi Luca , De Filippis Alessandro , Guccione Laura , Fasciani Romina , Rizzo Stanislao
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To describe the advantages of Ngenuity 3D digital filters for enhancing visualization during cataract and corneal transplant surgery.

Methods

All surgeries were performed by the same experienced surgeon (L.M.) using the Ngenuity 3D heads-up visualization system connected to a microscope. Images were simultaneously captured with and without the filter in each of the following phases: endothelial evaluation, capsulorhexis, capsule rupture, vitreous leak, cortex removal, visco removal, corneal suture, descemetorhexis, DMEK graft preparation and insertion.

Results

In cataract surgery, green and monochrome filters facilitate capsulorhexis in difficult situations by highlighting the anterior capsule and can improve visualization of a posterior capsular tear. The enhanced contrast of the monochrome filter is also useful for cortex and viscoelastic removal. In corneal surgery, the green filter highlights the rim of the DMEK graft during tissue preparation, the yellow filter enhances the contrast of the stained DMEK graft in the anterior chamber, the monochrome filter simplifies descemetorhexis by improving visualization of the Descemet/endothelial layer and allows a better view in red saturated images while performing sutures.

Conclusions

Ngenuity digital filters have the potential to enhance tissue visualization during cataract and corneal surgeries, especially in poor visibility conditions.
Poland’s first vascular access team 3-year analysis: Insights and learnings
Authors: Latos Maciej , Kosson Dariusz , Zawadka Mateusz
Published: May 2024

Background:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Poland saw a surge in interest in midline catheters (MCs) and Long Peripheral Catheters (LPCs) for intravenous therapy. Before this, MCs were not extensively utilised in the country, and there was no formally established Polish vascular access team. MCs, which have been used for years in many countries, are now becoming increasingly common in Poland. This study aimed to analyse the use of MCs in a 3-year perspective of their introduction in daily clinical practice based on a nurse-led Vascular Access Team (VAT).

Methods:

The records of adult patients who received intravenous therapy with 727 MCs and 293 LPCs from January 2021 to December 2023 at the University Clinical Centre of the Medical University of Warsaw were analysed.

Results:

The main indication for cannulation was expected intravenous therapy over 5 days (81.66%, n = 833), of which 71.37% ( n = 728) of patients in this group had concomitant difficult intravenous access (DIVA). Over 6 years, centrally inserted central catheters (CICCs) inserted due to DIVA were reduced from n = 108 in 2017 to n = 18 in 2023. The end of intravenous therapy was the reason for the removal of 64.6% of catheters ( n = 659), including death and switch to CICCs as well. Complications leading to premature removal accounted for 31.2%, such as: occlusion (14.6%), patient self-removal (7.1%) and thrombosis (3.43%).

Conclusions:

The introduction of MCs as a possible option for peripheral venous access reduces the use of CVCs. Developing MCs programmes should be based on investing in staff competencies, which increases success rates. The nurses and physicians should be trained in infusion care to achieve better results in the use of MCs and LPCs. Increasing the competence of nurses in Poland is necessary for the implementation of full-service and top-level functioning of VAT.
Primary Tuberculosis of the Pharynx in an HIV Context: A Case Report
Authors: Morán-Mariños Cristian , Llanos-Tejada Felix , Villanueva-Villegas Renzo , Vargas-Ponce Kanneth G. , Salas-López Juan
Published: May 2024

Pharyngeal tuberculosis without pulmonary involvement is very rare and may be confused with malignant lesions. We present a 45-year-old female patient with a history of HIV presenting with a history of cough, sore throat, and oral ulcers with chronic use of antibiotics. The evolution would indicate a probable malignant tumor, but the biopsy was consistent with Pharyngeal TB. The patient initiated anti-tuberculosis therapy and demonstrated improved conditions and remission of ulcers. In the context of HIV, this treatment could be a major contributor to the underdiagnosis of the disease and may lead to alternative diagnoses. Therefore, it is vital to consider this condition in patients who do not respond to antibiotics.
The assistive potential of functional electrical stimulation to support object manipulation in functional upper extremity movements after stroke: A randomized cross-over study
Authors: Höhler Chiara , Hermsdörfer Joachim , Jahn Klaus , Krewer Carmen
Published: May 2024

Background

After standard care, 55%-75% of patients after stroke show a persistent paresis of the upper limb (UL). Assistive devices are developed to increase the patients’ level of independence in daily life.

Objectives

To investigate the potential of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) to assist object manipulation in activities of daily life.

Design

Seventeen patients after stroke were tested and analyzed in a randomized cross-over design.

Methods

Functional grasping was assessed by means of the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) and the modified Box and Block Test (mBBT), in one session with and another without FES assistance. The order of sessions was randomized. Patients’ motivation was assessed after each session. Task performance and motivation were compared between conditions using the Wilcoxon test and subgroup analyses were performed for impairment severity by distribution-based mixed-factor analyses.

Results

When analyzing the total ARAT, FES did not effectively assist the overall performance ( P = .142), but did assist the performance of objects of the Grasp category ( P = .020). Impairment severity showed an interaction with the orthotic effect ( P = .012), as severely impaired patients profited from FES assistance and mild-moderately impaired did not. When focusing on the more functional items of the ARAT (i.e., excluding scores from thumb-middle and thumb-ring finger combinations), there was a significant orthotic effect of FES on task performance ( P = .023). Further, there was an orthotic effect for the number of transported blocks in the mBBT ( P = .033), exclusively prominent in the group of severely impaired patients. Functional Electrical Stimulation did not increase the patients’ motivation ( P = .959), which was high after both conditions.

Conclusion

Functional Electrical Stimulation has the potential to support object manipulation, but is dependent on impairment severity and object type. To observe a consistent orthotic effect, features of the stimulator should be further developed to generate appropriate grasps and forces across subjects and objects.

Trial Registration

The trial was registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00025889).
Different lymphocyte counts of multiple sclerosis patients treated with ofatumumab and ocrelizumab: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Friedli Christoph , Krajnc Nik , Hammer Helly N. , Marti Stefanie , Zrzavy Tobias , Evangelopoulos Maria E. , Kapsali Ioanna , Rommer Paulus , Berger Thomas , Chan Andrew , Bsteh Gabriel , Hoepner Robert
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Patients with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) treated with anti-CD20 (cluster of differentiation) monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) such as ocrelizumab (OCR) and ofatumumab (OFA) show a reduction mainly of B-lymphocytes, but also other lymphocyte subsets can be affected by these treatments. There is limited data on differences between lymphocyte subset counts of pwMS after treatment initiation with OCR or OFA.

Objective

To compare lymphocyte subset counts after treatment initiation in pwMS treated with OCR and OFA.

Methods

We analyzed 22 pwMS initiated on OFA and 56 sex-, age- and MS course matched pwMS initiated on OCR from 2 prospectively collected observational MS databases (Bern [n: OFA 14, OCR 44] and Vienna [n: OFA 8, OCR 12]) statistically comparing lymphocyte subset counts (Mann Whitney Test).

Results

We found that pwMS treated with OCR showed a stronger reduction of CD20 B-lymphocytes ( P = .001), and a trend towards lower counts of CD8+ T cells ( P = .056) compared to pwMS treated with OFA, whereas reduction of total lymphocyte, CD4+ lymphocyte and NK cell count was equally distributed between both treatments.

Conclusion

Different effects on lymphocyte subpopulations appear to be present in pwMS after treatment initiation with different anti-CD20 mAbs. Further studies are needed to determine potential effects on anti-CD20 treatment efficacy as well as treatment associated risks such as failed vaccinations and infections.
Pleasures of the city. An essay in memory of the Danish sociologist Henning Bech
Authors: Wøldike Morten Emmerik , Poder Poul
Published: May 2024

This essay pays homage to the late Danish sociologist Henning Bech's groundbreaking work on sexuality, urban life, phenomenology, and modernity. Bech's contributions are praised for their critical yet affirmative perspective, offering insights into the complexities of contemporary society, particularly regarding gender, sexuality, and urban life. Central to Bech’s thesis is the idea that the city itself is a dynamic space where sexuality is not only displayed but also actively generated, influencing people’s experiences and interactions. He challenges traditional notions of sexuality by arguing that it is not merely an inherent trait but a sociocultural construct deeply intertwined with urban life. By examining the aesthetic and erotic potential of urban spaces, he sheds light on the role of the city in shaping people’s tunings and experiences of pleasure. Bech conceptualizes male homosexuality as a form of existence rather than a fixed identity and explores the experiences of the male homosexuals while emphasizing broader shifts in societal attitudes towards sexuality and intimacy. Bech's sociology provides a valuable framework for appreciating the complexities of late modern social life. By foregrounding the aesthetic dimensions of the urban social world and adopting a critical yet affirmative stance, he offers a nuanced perspective that enriches our understanding of contemporary societies. Ultimately, Bech's legacy lies in his ability to provoke thought and challenge conventional wisdom, and thereby stimulating new innovative research.
Personality differences between individuals involved in polyamorous and monogamous relationships
Authors: Banaszkiewicz Paulina
Published: May 2024

Polyamory is a type of consensual non-monogamy (CNM) where the partners agree they may establish multiple simultaneous emotional relationships. In recent years, the number of scientific publications investigating polyamory has increased, but little attention has been paid to personality traits solely in this type of CNM. The present study took into account the Big Five personality factors, risk taking, and ambiguity tolerance. The study was conducted in a group of 258 participants, including 119 polyamorous subjects (70 women, 43 men and 6 nonbinary individuals) aged 18-52 years. As anticipated, individuals in polyamorous relationships scored higher on openness to experience, risk taking in social and ethical domains, and on ambiguity tolerance; they also scored lower on conscientiousness. The findings show that individuals involved in polyamorous relationships tend to present more complex thinking, greater tolerance to new and unclear situations, and lower compliance with social norms.
Artificial Intelligence and the question of creativity: Art, data and the sociocultural archive of AI-imaginations
Authors: Baas Michiel
Published: May 2024

Increasingly artificial intelligence (AI) is employed by artists for creative purposes. At the same time, AI causes significant concerns among creative professionals in terms of copyright violations and possible job loss. To understand how it may be possible to (co)create with AI this article will enter into conversation with Indian artist Harshit Agrawal who is both a designer with Adobe and an artist who works with AI for creative purposes. Introducing the concept of the sociocultural archive comprising AI imaginations as they have featured in popular culture, this article suggests that when we seek to understand how we now live, work and create with AI in the ‘present’, we must also interrogate how this was once envisioned in the ‘past’. This will facilitate a more productive approach to AI for the ‘future’.
Pandemic politics and public sphere: A critical discourse analysis of COVID-19 in letters to the editor of leading Odia newspapers
Authors: Nayak Deba Prasad , Dash Bidu Bhusan , Abhyudaya Sarthak
Published: May 2024

This paper analyzed the letters to the editor of four leading Odia dailies by applying critical discourse analysis to understand how this section contributes as the public sphere and discusses politics around the second wave of COVID-19. The period considered for study was during the peak of the COVID-19 second wave in India – from April to September 2021, which witnessed many deaths and devastation. During the period the maximum number of letters were written around COVID-19. Upon analyzing the letters, it was concluded that the letters covered five major concerns of the pandemic – the political state within the country and the politics around the vaccine, the availability of the vaccines, the condition of senior citizens and children, the struggle to strike a balance between life and livelihood, and the ongoing crisis in the education sector due to the pandemic. As a public forum for debate, the newspaper readers resorted to the letters to the editor section where they effectively communicated their experiences and problems related to the pandemic. The letters shed light on the real issues on the ground. During COVID-19 the general public craved a forum to share their opinion and express their issues and problems. The letters to the editor section proved to be an effective public forum in this regard. Though the study was conducted in Odisha, a coastal state of India, its findings have a greater implication for the vernacular dailies in the Global South.
How prevalent are suggestive brand names and Distinctive Assets? An AI-human approach
Authors: Bali Larissa Mae , Anesbury Zachary William , Phua Peilin , Sharp Byron
Published: May 2024

Despite the concept of a suggestive brand name existing for over one hundred years (Viehoever, 1920), the prevalence of suggestive versus non-suggestive brand names has not been documented. Previously, to do so extensively would have taken considerable time and money. We now show that artificial intelligence can replace manual coding with increased accuracy. We found the coding performances of Chat GPT-4 are 34% more accurate than GPT-3.5 and 44% more accurate than human coders. Systematically expanding our research to over 4,600 brands from consumer goods, services, and durables in major English-speaking markets (United Kingdom, United States, and Australia), we find that overall, slightly more than a quarter of all brand names are suggestive - ranging from 10% of durables to 56% of service brands. Further, we expand the suggestiveness research to non-brand name elements of almost 600 Distinctive Assets (e.g., colours, logos) across consumer goods, services, durables, and retailers (in the same three countries), finding that two in five are suggestive. The brand name and Distinctive Asset prevalence distributions are positively skewed, with most categories falling beneath the respective averages. Furthermore, regarding performance, on average, suggestive Distinctive Assets display lower levels of Fame and Uniqueness than non-suggestive Distinctive Assets.