bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Professionals Working in End-of-Life Care: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Covington Lori , Banerjee Moitree , Pereira Antonina , Price Marie
Published: May 2022

Objectives: The potential usefulness of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) is being investigated for healthcare staff burnout and associated problems, but empirical research on MBI's for end-of-life (EOL) professionals is still in its infancy. The aim of this review is to describe and evaluate the body of evidence-based research on the use of MBIs to support the psychological wellbeing of professional staff in EOL care settings. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was conducted. Database records were extracted from ERIC, PsycInfo, EBSCO, PubMed Central (PMC) and Web of Science, using search terms to locate peer-reviewed studies on professional (not volunteer) staff in dedicated end-of-life settings, administering MBIs not embedded in more general therapeutic modalities (such as ACT or DBT). After removing duplicates, 8701 potential studies were identified: eliminating those that did not fit the eligibility criteria reduced the number of eligible studies to six. Results: A total of six empirical studies were identified and further evaluated. Interventions primarily focussed on reducing burnout symptoms, increasing self-care and self-compassion, and fostering mindfulness. Studies demonstrated very little overlap in treatment, methodology and measures. Only one study was a randomised control trial, which on application of the 3-item Jadad quality scoring, (evidence of randomisation, blinding of researcher to participants’ identity and accounts provided of all participants), achieved 1 out of 5 possible points. Furthermore, other concerns were identified as to the study's methodology. Conclusions: Results of this review point to significant gaps in the research on the potential of MBIs to improve the wellbeing of EOL professionals.
Canadian Adolescents’ Experiences of Dating Violence: Associations with Social Power Imbalances
Authors: Exner-Cortens Deinera , Baker Elizabeth , Craig Wendy
Published: May 2022

A substantial minority of adolescents experience and use dating violence in their sexual and/or romantic relationships. Limited attention has been paid to exploring theory-driven questions about use and experience of adolescent dating violence (ADV), restricting knowledge about promising prevention targets for diverse groups of youth. To address this gap, this paper investigates whether factors tied to power imbalances (bullying, risk of social marginalization) are associated with patterns of ADV victimization and perpetration in a large sample of Canadian mid-adolescents. We used data from the 2017/2018 Health-Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) study, a nationally representative sample of Canadian youth. Our study was comprised of adolescents who were in grades 9 or 10, and who had dated in the past 12 months (N = 3779). We assessed multiple forms of ADV and bullying victimization and perpetration. We also included six variables assessing adolescents’ risk of social marginalization: gender, race/ethnicity, immigration status, family structure, food insecurity, and family affluence. We used latent class analysis to explore the ways adolescents experience and use different forms of ADV, and then examined whether factors tied to power imbalances (bullying, social marginalization) were associated with classes of ADV. Three ADV classes emerged in our sample: uninvolved (65.7%), psychological and cyber victimization only (28.9%), and mutual violence (5.4%). Bullying was most strongly associated with the mutual violence class, suggesting a transformation of power from peer to romantic contexts. Social marginalization variables were associated with ADV patterns in different ways, highlighting the need to use a critical and anti-oppressive lens in ADV research and prevention initiatives.
The synergy of the multi-modal MPC and Q-learning approach for the navigation of a three-wheeled omnidirectional robot based on the dynamic model with obstacle collision avoidance purposes
Authors: Saeedinia Samaneh Alsadat , Tale Masouleh Mehdi
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes a new navigation control scheme for a three-wheel OMnidirectional Robot (OMR), taking into account the dynamic constraints with the aim of collision avoidance in dynamic environments. The proposed control strategy is inherently a multi-modal adaptive-Reinforcing model-based controller (MAR-MPC), which can be regarded as a judicious synergy of multi-modal MPC (MMPC) and Q-Learning (QL) to optimal navigation. This method takes advantage of a larger convergence area, compared to MMPC and MPC, and presents near-optimal MPC performance. The navigation scheme utilizes an online stochastic observer, namely, a Kalman filter, to estimate the future state of the robot. This paper formulates a general collision avoidance navigation problem in a constrained linear convex cone structure to make it real-time implementable. Furthermore, the proposed multi-modal path planning algorithm reduces the required prediction horizon and consequently affects computational cost. To evaluate the performance of the proposed navigation strategy, two static and two dynamic environment instances are simulated, and the results are compared with four algorithms, namely, Exploring Random Tree (RRT), Potential Field (PF), MPC, and MMPC. Results indicate the superior performance of the proposed navigation method in aspects of time and distance costs and collision avoidance criterion. Moreover, the proposed algorithm provides the feasibility and stability guarantee and a larger convergence region.
An event-triggered real-time motion planning strategy for autonomous vehicles
Authors: Hu Jie , Chen Ruinan , Xu Wencai , Lu Ruoyu
Published: May 2022

Motion planning is an essential part of autonomous vehicles. The planning process should respond to environmental changes in real time to ensure safety. This paper proposes an event-triggered real-time motion planning strategy to achieve a more real-time planning effect and a scenario-based planning process. The path planning process is discretized into several parts and integrated into the behavioral planning process. A hierarchical finite state machine (HFSM) based integrated motion planning process is proposed to trigger the discrete path planning parts according to environmental events. Thus, the output reference path can be obtained. Experiment and simulation results show the efficiency of our strategy.
Determination of friction factor and heat transfer rate in laminar flow in an agitated vessel
Authors: Ansar Ali SK , Kumar Pardeep , Sharma Vipin Kumar , Akhai Shalom , Kumar Vinod , Joshi Ravinder Singh
Published: May 2022

Helical coils are commonly employed in a variety of process industries due to their superior fluid mixing capabilities, the flexibility of fabrication, and simple design. Frictional pressure losses occur in flow-through helically coiled tubes, affecting the heat transfer rate across the coils. An inquiry is carried out in the current experimental study to discover friction factors and heat transfer rates within the coil tubes of test fluids flowing in the laminar flow area. Non-Newtonian test fluids comprised ichorous solutions of Carboxy Methyl Cellulose (CMC) at concentrations of 0.5 percent, 1 percent, and 2 percent, whereas Newtonian test fluids consisted of water. With the use of an appropriate viscosity expression, Newtonian consonances are demonstrated to apply to several non-Newtonian fluids with certain constraints. In a laminar flow, the shear stress in a helical coil is greater than in a straight conduit. It has been proved that the experimental data can be fruitfully correlated across a broad extent of fluid data and coil radius stretch. The investigated data obtained has been correlated with Standard a deviation of 15.6% with the range 25<D_e < 2000 and 40<P_r < 226.
Using different unit-cell geometries to generate bone tissue scaffolds by additive manufacturing technology
Authors: Hossein Ehsani Amir , Rahmati Sadegh , Nikkhoo Mohammad , Etemadi Haghighi Shahram , Haghpanahi Mohammad
Published: May 2022

The design and manufacturing three-dimensional scaffolds are a significant concept in bone tissue engineering (BTE). Firstly, from the perspective of manufacturing, Additive manufacturing (AM) technology has achieved great attraction in the field of BTE during the past few years. In the field of BTE, the possibility of generating complex porous structures with high precision compared to typical manufacturing methods has made AM the leading option for scaffold production. Secondly, from the design perspective, design porous scaffold plays a decisive role in BTE since scaffold design with an appropriate architectures have to lead to proper strength and porosity. The purpose of this research is extraction of optimal architecture to achieve maximum mechanical strength of BTE scaffolds. Hence, the geometry structures of the unit-cell have been selected in Cube, Cylinder and Hexagonal prism. On the other hand, for considering the porosity effects, three different unit-cell size have been chosen, and a total of nine scaffolds have been designed. Designed scaffolds were fabricated using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D Printer and dimensional features of scaffolds were evaluated by comparing the designed scaffolds with scanning electron microscope (SEM). The specimens were exposed to mechanical compression test and the results were validated with the finite element analysis (FEA). Verified experimental and FEM results offered an excellent possible unit-cell geometry to be applied in design and manufacturing of BTE scaffolds.
Building an entrepreneurial Caribbean university library: practice, possibilities, and lessons
Authors: Harris Sasekea ,   Head: Science & Engineering Branch Library (SEBL)
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Entrepreneurship is being seen as a core driver of economic revival. Consequently, organizations and institutions, including universities, are being called upon to accelerate their role in an increasingly entrepreneurial environment. The sub-streams of entrepreneurship are manifold; yet, there is still the notion that entrepreneurship is solely about making profits. Within this context there are questions, within and without librarianship, regarding whether a library, which is a non-profit entity, can be an entrepreneur. As such, this paper purposed to examine the extent to which the terms library and entrepreneurship harmonise, through a case study of a large Caribbean university library, with the objective of highlighting practice, possibilities and lessons.

Design/Methodology

Employees of the understudy library were purposively sampled and surveyed.

Findings

The theo-practical lens through which one views entrepreneurship, determine perceptions regarding the status of the understudy library as an entrepreneur.

Research Limitations/Implications

This paper examined one of the largest indigenous university library in the English-speaking Caribbean; it is possible that the situation for other types/sizes of Caribbean university libraries may vary. Therefore, it would be useful to study other Caribbean university libraries.

Originality/Value

This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on “libraries and entrepreneurship” and evidence for “value of libraries” albeit from a Caribbean perspective. It also highlights the status of entrepreneurship in libraries in general, and a Caribbean university library in particular, and in this regard offers a case for strengthening entrepreneurship in other Caribbean university libraries. Additionally, it is the first scholarly paper on Caribbean university library entrepreneurship.

Practical & Social Implications

There is a gap in the literature on practical examples and scholarly papers on building a Caribbean entrepreneurial university library. Using the response of the understudy Caribbean university library, this paper seeks to fill this gap, albeit incrementally, through proposing a broad “Entrepreneurial University Library Framework for building an entrepreneurial university library within the context of the Caribbean. Although this study was conducted within a Caribbean context, hence the phrase entrepreneurial Caribbean university library, its model can be used by other comparable institutions worldwide, struggling with increasing demands to be entrepreneurial.
Removal of Ni2+ and Zn2+ from groundwater by adsorption onto fishbone and hydroxyapatite: Effect of salinity
Authors: Septian Ardie , Choi Jiyeon , Shin Won Sik
Published: May 2022

Ni2+- and Zn2+-contaminated groundwater in the coastal regions is a serious threat to water security in industrial areas. Apatite-like material is an excellent sorbent for heavy metals; however the effect of salinity on the Ni2+ and Zn2+ adsorption onto fishbone and synthesized hydroxyapatite (HAP) has not been investigated. This study investigates the effect of salinity on the single and binary adsorption of Ni2+ and Zn2+ onto apatite-like materials. The experiments were conducted in batch reactor for 24 h at 1:40 solid-to-liquid ratios (wt/wt), 25°C, and pH 5. Freundlich, Langmuir, and Dubinin–Radushkevich models fit well with the single-adsorption data. The adsorption isotherms were nonlinear ( NF = 0.350–0.710). The maximum adsorption capacities ( qmL) of the Ni2+ and Zn2+ onto HAP were higher than those onto the fishbone, attributed to the higher Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area (ABET) and cation exchange capacity. In the binary adsorption, adsorption capacities of the adsorbents were less than those in the single-solute system due to the competition between Ni2+ and Zn2+. Salinity affected the single and binary adsorption by decreasing the adsorption capacities of the adsorbents. In a binary adsorption system, the selectivity of Zn2+ was less than that of Ni2+ for both fishbone and HAP at 0‰ and 30‰ salinity, respectively. Binary adsorption models, such as the Murali–Aylmore (M–A) model, competitive Langmuir model (CLM), P-factor model, and ideal-adsorbed solution theory coupled with the Freundlich (IAST-Freundlich) model were used; of these, the M–A model provided the best prediction for the binary system.
A review on the enhancement of composite’s interface properties through biological treatment of natural fibre/lignocellulosic material
Authors: Boey Jet Yin , Yusoff Siti Baidurah , Tay Guan Seng
Published: May 2022

Natural fibre or lignocellulosic fibres have aroused the attention of scientists in the polymer industry, given their eco-friendly, low density, and biodegradability. Nevertheless, the major obstacle to wide commercial applications is the incompatibility between polar natural plant fibres with non-polar polymer matrix due to different chemical constitutions. Therefore, surface treatment of natural fibres before they are implemented to prepare fibre-reinforced composites is considered. Chemical and physical treatments are not preferred as it involves hazardous chemicals and high energy consumption. This review article provides an overview of various environmentally friendly approaches, such as introducing bacterial nanocellulose, pre-treatment with bacterial cellulase, fungal treatment, and enzymatic treatments aimed to treat natural fibres. The implications of working mechanisms on the characteristics of fibre itself and polymer composites with reinforcement are reviewed. The application of treated fibres reinforced composites and comparison of biological treatment with other treatments are discussed in this article. It is evidenced that fibre that undergoes biological modifications facilitates better fibre-matrix interfacial adhesion, has stronger mechanical bonding with the matrix, along with the reduction of water uptake of the composites.
HoBi-like pestivirus in 2 cases of fatal respiratory disease of feedlot cattle in Argentina
Authors: Margineda Carlos A. , Ferreyra Franco Matías , Masnyj Franco , Audrito Maximiliano , Favaro Paula Melisa , María José Dus Santos , Pecora Andrea
Published: May 2022

HoBi-like pestivirus (HoBiPeV) is an emerging virus that has been detected in cattle and other ruminants. We diagnosed 2 cases of fatal bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) associated with infection with HoBiPeV in a feedlot in Argentina. The main findings in 2 steers autopsied were interstitial bronchopneumonia (case 1) and fibrinous bronchopneumonia (case 2). HoBiPeV was detected by RT-PCR in lungs of both animals and by immunohistochemistry in case 2. Phylogenetic analysis showed that both strains clustered within the “Brazilian-Italian” clade. In case 2, Mannheimia haemolytica was isolated from the lung. There is scant information about the contribution of HoBiPeV to the pathogenesis of BRDC. To our knowledge, HoBiPeV has not been reported previously in association with M. haemolytica pneumonia. Our findings further support the involvement of HoBiPeV in cases of BRDC and contribute to understanding the synergy of this etiologic agent in the pathogenesis of BRD, which is critical for the development of appropriate preventive strategies.
The Association Between Multitasking and Multi-Patient Care Skills in a Simulated Patient Care Video Game Among Second Year Medical Students Based on Specialty Choice
Authors: Korand Sridevi , Fung Cha Chi , Cohen Sammy , Talbot Thomas B. , Fischer Susan , Luu Cindy , Sargsyan Mariam , Ben-Isaac Eyal , Espinoza Juan , Chang Todd P.
Published: May 2022

Background and Objective

Healthcare providers require multitasking and multi-patient care skills, and training programs do not formally incorporate curricula specifically for multitasking skills to trainees. The medical education community is in equipoise on whether multitasking ability is a fixed trait. Furthermore, it is unclear whether multitasking ability affects those who gravitate toward careers that demand it, particularly among medical students deciding on a specialty. We sought to define the association between specialty choice, multitasking abilities and multi-patient care delivery among pre-clinical medical students. For this study, we examined both efficiency and accuracy metrics within multitasking and whether they were different between students choosing specialties.

Methods

This was a planned cross-sectional sub-study focused on 2nd year medical students (MS-IIs) within a parent study evaluating multi-patient care skills using a serious game (VitalSigns:EDTM) depicting a pediatric emergency department. Subjects completed a Multitasking Ability Test (MTAT) and five VitalSigns:ED gameplays. The predictor variable was specialty choice, categorized into multitasking and non-multitasking groups. Outcome variables measuring efficiency and diagnostic accuracy were obtained from the MTAT and the game. The primary analysis was a Mann–Whitney U test, and secondary analyses employed Spearman Rank correlations.

Results

Twelve students applied to multitasking specialties and 18 applied to others. Those in the multitasking specialties had faster MTAT completions than the other cohort (29.8 vs. 59.7 sec, 95%CI difference -0.9 to -39.8 sec). Differential diagnoses were higher in multitasking specialties in VitalSigns:ED (2.03 vs. 1.06, 95%CI difference +0.05 to +1.54) but efficiency metrics in the game did not differ.

Conclusion

Multitasking and multi-patient care performance show some association with preferred specialty choices for MS-IIs prior to clinical exposure.
Shifting Social Norms and Adolescent Girls’ Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services and Information in a South African Township
Authors: Gillespie Bronwen , Balen Julie , Allen Haddijatou , Soma-Pillay Priya , Anumba Dilly
Published: May 2022

Despite policy on adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and education, teen pregnancies remain common in South Africa. Social norms and cultural resistance are a well-documented challenge for SRH program implementation in South Africa, and beyond. To gain insight on the complex picture of adolescents’ access to SRH information and services in a peri-urban township, we explored this topic from a diversity of perspectives, carrying out 86 interviews to capture perceptions of adolescents, their parents, community members, and health professionals. Our research shows that despite the taboo nature of the issue of adolescent SRH, individual positions on adolescent access to SRH services and information are shifting and diverse, and are influenced by factors other than cultural norms. This research serves as a reminder to avoid simplistic reference to “culture” as a way of explaining health-related behaviors and people’s responses to health challenges.
Squamosal Suture Synostosis: An Under-Recognized Phenomenon
Authors: W. Beiriger Justin , Zhu Xiao , Bruce Madeleine K. , Irgebay Zhazira , Smetona John , Losee Joseph E. , Goldstein Jesse A.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The squamosal suture (SQS) joins the temporal to the parietal bones bilaterally and is a poorly described site of craniosynostosis. SQS fusion is thought to occur as late as the fourth decade of life and beyond; however, we have incidentally noted its presence among our pediatric patients and hypothesize that it may occur earlier in life and more frequently than previously believed.

Methods

A retrospective review of imaging performed on pediatric patients was completed to identify patients with SQS synostosis. This included a review of clinical notes as well as computed tomography (CT) images obtained by our craniofacial clinic. Relevant patient data and imaging were reviewed.

Results

Forty-seven patients were identified with SQS synostosis, 21 were female (45%). Age at the time of radiographic diagnosis was 10.1 ± 8.4 years (range 17 days to 27 years). A majority of patients had bilateral SQS synostosis (57%), with a relatively even distribution of unilateral right (23%) versus left (19%). SQS was an isolated finding (no other suture involvement) in 15 patients (32%), all of whom were normocephalic and did not require surgical intervention. Thirty-two patients (68%) had concomitant craniosynostosis of other sutures, most commonly sagittal and coronal. Nine patients (19%) underwent surgery to correct cranial malformations—all these patients had multi-suture synostosis ( P = 0.012). Twenty-seven patients (57%) had SQS synostosis diagnosed incidentally compared to 20 (43%) who were imaged with suspicion for synostosis. In those who were symptomatic, common findings included developmental delay, elevated intracranial pressure, hydrocephalus, seizures, and visual/hearing impairments. Ten patients (21%) were syndromic, the most frequent of which was Crouzon syndrome. No single pattern of calvarial malformation could be definitively described for SQS synostosis.

Conclusion

Given that most isolated SQS synostosis cases were normocephalic, asymptomatic, and discovered incidentally, it is likely that there are many cases of unidentified SQS synostosis. The significance of SQS synostosis is currently unclear, and warrants further investigation into this phenomenon, its natural course, and its potential presence in the spectrum of normal development.
The Use of High-Dose Corticosteroids Versus Low-Dose Corticosteroids With and Without Tocilizumab in COVID-19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Katz Alyson , Altshuler Diana , Papadopoulos John , Amoroso Nancy , Goldenberg Ronald , Tarras Elizabeth , Krolikowski Kelsey , Hagedorn Jacklyn , Fridman David , Chen Xian Jie Cindy , Iturrate Eduardo , Brosnahan Shari B.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Corticosteroids and tocilizumab have been shown to improve survival in patients who require supplemental oxygen from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. The optimal dose of immunosuppression for the treatment of COVID-19 acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is still unknown.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of high- versus low-dose corticosteroids with or without tocilizumab for the treatment of COVID-19 ARDS.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) requiring mechanical ventilation who received high- versus low-dose corticosteroids with or without tocilizumab. The primary outcome was survival to discharge. Safety outcomes included infections and incidence of hyperglycemia.

Results:

In this cohort, 110 (54%) and 95 (46%) patients received high-dose (≥10 mg dexamethasone equivalent) and low-dose (<10 mg dexamethasone equivalent) corticosteroids for more than 3 consecutive days, respectively. Thirty-five patients (32%) in the high-dose group and 33 patients (35%) in the low-dose group survived to hospital discharge ( P = 0.85). There was no difference in 28-day mortality in patients who received high-dose corticosteroids without tocilizumab compared with those who received low-dose corticosteroids with tocilizumab (n = 38/82, 46% vs n = 19/40, 48% P = 0.99); however, there was a higher mortality if patients received low-dose corticosteroids without tocilizumab (n = 39/55, 71%, P = 0.01). The highest rate of a bacterial pneumonia was in patients who received high-dose corticosteroids with tocilizumab.

Conclusions:

In critically ill patients with COVID-19 ARDS requiring mechanical ventilation, we found no difference in high- versus low-dose corticosteroids with regard to survival to hospital discharge. However, patients receiving only low-dose corticosteroids without tocilizumab did worse than the other groups. Larger prospective studies are needed to determine the optimal immunosuppression dosing strategy in this patient population.
The Negative Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on Behavioral Problems of Children in Kinship Care: The Protective Role of Kinship Caregivers’ Mental Health
Authors: Xu Yanfeng , Jedwab Merav , Lee Kerry A. , Levkoff Sue E.
Published: May 2022

This study aims to examine the (a) prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among children in kinship care; (b) relationships between the number and type of ACEs and children’s internalizing and externalizing problems; and (c) moderating role of kinship caregivers’ mental health on the relationships between ACEs and children’s internalizing and externalizing problems. A sample of children in kinship care ( N = 224) obtained from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being II was used. Ordinary least squares regression models were conducted. Results indicated that neglect followed by parental substance abuse were found to be the most prevalent of the ACEs. Child neglect, sexual and emotional abuse, and parental substance abuse were significantly associated with child internalizing problems, whereas sexual and emotional abuse were significantly associated with child externalizing problems. The total number of ACEs and experiencing three or more ACEs were significantly associated with child externalizing problems. Kinship caregivers’ mental health significantly moderated the relationships between neglect, sexual abuse, and child internalizing problems. Caregiver’s mental health also moderated the relationships between emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, and children’s externalizing problems. Findings suggest the importance of addressing ACEs and the need for mental health services to both kinship caregivers and children in kinship care.
Assessment of Flatfoot Deformity Using Digitally Reconstructed Radiographs: Reliability and Comparison to Conventional Radiographs
Authors: Fuller Robert M. , Kim Jaeyoung , An Tonya W. , Rajan Lavan , Cororaton Agnes D. , Kumar Prashanth , Deland Jonathan T. , Ellis Scott J.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRRs) generated from weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) may potentially substitute for weightbearing plain radiographs (XRs) but have not been clinically validated. This study aims to test the reliability of 6 radiographic parameters of progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD) as measured on DRR, to investigate whether DRR represents comparably to XR through the same measurements, and to compare agreement of DRR and XR measurements of a standardized arch height parameter with reference measurements made on WBCT.

Methods:

DRR generated from preoperative WBCT of 71 patients (72 feet) treated surgically for PCFD were retrospectively compared with preoperative weight-bearing XR after exclusion criteria were applied. Six radiographic measurements were performed, including Meary angle, calcaneal pitch (CPA), medial cuneiform height (MCH), AP talar–first metatarsal angle (T-1MT), talonavicular coverage (TNCA), and talar incongruency (TIA). Arch height was measured on XR, DRR, and WBCT using a validated, standardized, navicular-based index. Intraclass correlation coefficients assessed DRR intraobserver and interobserver reliability. Paired samples t tests tested differences between XR and DRR. Bland-Altman limits of agreement analysis compared DRR and XR agreement with WBCT measurements.

Results:

Measurements were within standard PCFD ranges on XR and DRR. All measurements demonstrated excellent intrarater reliability and good to excellent interrater agreement, consistent with previous literature on XR. No differences were found for Meary, CPA, or TNCA. Minor differences were observed for MCH, T-1MT, and TIA. DRR measurements demonstrated greater agreement with WBCT than XR measurements.

Conclusion:

DRR from WBCT may be a promising substitute for XR in the clinical evaluation of PCFD. Radiographic measurements made on DRR demonstrated good to excellent reliability. Although small differences were found between XR and DRR for certain measurements, DRR more accurately represented medial arch anatomy compared to gold standard WBCT data than XR. If validated as a clinical substitute, DRR could eventually obviate XR where WBCT is available.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Intra-articular Calcaneal Fracture Treatment With Staged Medial External Fixation
Authors: Kim Gi Beom , Park Jeong Jin , Park Chul Hyun
Published: May 2022

Background:

To compare the clinical and radiographic outcomes between the conventional delayed and staged approaches for intra-articular calcaneus fractures in which early definite fixation could not be performed because of severe soft tissue injury.

Methods:

From January 2015 to May 2019, a total of 32 cases with acute intra-articular calcaneal fractures met criteria and were enrolled in the study. We compared the outcomes of intra-articular calcaneal fractures that underwent delayed internal fixation between groups treated with a conventional delayed approach (non-EF group) vs a temporary medial external fixation (EF group). Clinical outcome measures included a 10-point visual analog scale score, the AOFAS score, and the Foot Function Index. Radiographic outcome measures included Böhler angle, talar declination angle, and calcaneal width. Reduction of the posterior facet was assessed on CT scans.

Results:

The first 15 (46.9%) were treated with a conventional delayed approach, and the latter 17 (53.1%) were treated with a staged approach with temporary medial external fixation. Clinical outcomes were not different between the groups at the last follow-up. The time from injury to definite internal fixation was shorter by an average of 3.8 days in the EF group ( P = .001). The Böhler angle, talar declination angle, and calcaneal width were not different between the groups before surgery and at the last follow-up. Reduction of the posterior facet on CT scans was significantly better in the EF group than in the non-EF group (good/excellent = 94% vs 60%, respectively, P = .033).

Conclusion:

The staged approach using medial external fixation for displaced intra-articular calcaneus fractures could be an effective method to decrease the time to definitive internal fixation and obtain optimal reduction of the posterior facet.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case-control study.
Noteworthy Cardiac Literature From 2021: Coronary Guideline Change Without New Data, Heart Transplant Donation After Cardiac Death, Covid Effects on Global Cardiac Surgery, and Attempt to Improve Dissection Remodeling
Authors: Hoffman Jordan R. H. , Higa Kelly C. , Lin Yihan , Reece T. Brett , Cleveland Joseph C. , Aftab Muhammad , Rove Jessica Y.
Published: May 2022

Cardiac surgery continues to evolve. The last year has been notable for many reasons. The guidelines for coronary revascularization introduced significant discord. The pandemic continues to affect the care on a global scale. Advances in organ procurement and dissection care move forward with better understanding and better technology.
Diagnostic Value of hTERT mRNA and in Combination With AFP, AFP-L3%, Des-γ-carboxyprothrombin for Screening of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Liver Cirrhosis Patients HBV or HCV-Related
Authors: Nguyen Hoang Bac , Le Xuan-Thao Thi , Nguyen Huy Huu , Vo Thanh Thanh , Le Minh Khoi , Nguyen Ngan Trung , Do-Nguyen Thien Minh , Truong-Nguyen Cong Minh , Nguyen Bang-Suong Thi
Published: May 2022

Diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in early-stage, to give an effective treatment option and improve quality of life for cancer patients, is an important medical mission globally. Combination of AFP with some biomarkers may be more supportive in both diagnosis and screening of HCC, but the range value of these markers can be applied as daily markers were unclearly. In some studies, human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT mRNA) was reported as an advantage marker to diagnose cancer. The present study identified serum of 340 patients that were infected chronic hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus and divided in 2 groups including Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver cirrhosis (LC) to measure their values of hTERT mRNA, AFP, AFP-L3%, and DCP, as well as combination of them. As a result, the concentration of hTERT mRNA, AFP, AFP-L3%, and DCP in HCC groups were significantly higher than that in LC group ( P < .01). For detecting HCC, hTERT mRNA had sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 96% (at the cutoff value of 31.5 copies/mL), AFP sensitivity of 73% and specificity of 92% (at the cutoff value of 5.1 ng/mL), AFP-L3% sensitivity of 69% and specificity of 90% (at the cutoff value of 1.05%), DCP sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 92% (at the cutoff value of 29.01 mAU/mL). The largest area under the curve (AUC) of combination hTERT mRNA with DCP was 0.932 (sensitivity of 98.2% and specificity of 88.2%). New combination of DCP with hTERT mRNA gave a useful choice for screening of HCC in chronic HBV or HCV patients associated liver cirrhosis.
Health Effects Associated With Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) and Polysubstance Use: A Narrative Review
Authors: Striley Catherine W , Hoeflich Carolin C , Viegas Andrew T , Berkowitz Lindsey A , Matthews Emily G , Akin Leyla P , Iheanyi-Okeahialam Chidinma , Mansoor Urmeen , McCurdy Christopher R
Published: May 2022

Background:

Kratom ( Mitragyna speciosa) consumption and associated health effects have raised debates in the United States. Although most people using this herb do not experience adverse health effects associated with kratom use, medical providers should be knowledgeable of emerging substances and concurrent, sequential, or simultaneous use of other drugs which may impact healthcare recommendations and prescribing practices.

Methods:

The objective of this narrative review was to elucidate selected health effects associated with using kratom—either alone or with other substances. Since scientifically controlled human subjects research on kratom use is still limited, relevant case reports were also described.

Results:

Cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, neurological, and psychiatric effects associated with kratom use were especially notable, and in-utero exposure accompanied concern regarding a neonate’s risk for developing neonatal abstinence syndrome. Our ability to identify and understand the role of this herb in kratom-associated fatalities is complicated since kratom is not routinely screened for in standard forensic toxicology. If a screening is performed, it is usually for the major alkaloid, mitragynine, as a surrogate for kratom use. In addition to lacking a standard practice of screening decedents for kratom alkaloids, the association between mortality and kratom use may be confounded by polysubstance use, adulteration of kratom products, and drug-herb interactions.

Conclusions:

Increasing medical awareness of this herb is vital to ensuring prompt administration of best-practice medical advice or treatment for people seeking information related to kratom use or for patients experiencing an adverse health effect that may be associated with using or withdrawing from kratom. Knowledge gained from continued surveillance and study of kratom and its associated health effects may assist in guiding clinical decision-making and preventing development of adverse health effects among people using kratom.
The Pattern of Substance Use and Characteristics of the Individuals Enrolled in Residential Treatment at Selected Rehabilitation Centers in Sri Lanka: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jayamaha Akila R , Dharmarathna Nishadi D , Herath Nimesha DM , Ranadeva Nadeeka DK , Fernando Medhavi M , Samarasinghe Kerstin L , Amarabandu Priyangi N , Senanayake Badhrani , Darshana Thamara , Renuka Nilani , Rajapakse Iyanthimala H , Gunasekara Chinthika P , Meegoda Lalitha , Fernando Neluka
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Substance use becomes censorious when it leads to harmful effects on individuals, their families, and the community. The nature of substance use in Sri Lankan context is poorly understood and empirical evidences are sparse. The study aimed to describe patterns of substance use and characteristics of the individuals enrolled in residential treatment at selected rehabilitation centers in Sri Lanka.

Material and methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 205 individuals enrolled in selected rehabilitation centers. Pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:

Most of the individuals who enrolled in residential treatment at selected rehabilitation centers were unmarried (n = 124, 60.5%), Sinhala (n = 186, 90.7%), Buddhist (n = 166, 81.0%), males (n = 202, 98.5%) and belonged to the young adult age (18-35 years) category (n = 178, 86.8%). All the participants were poly-drug users and cannabis was the most commonly used (n = 183, 89.3%) illicit drug followed by heroin (n = 172, 83.9%), methamphetamine (n = 150, 73.2%) and cocaine (n = 78, 38%). The most (n = 152, 74.1%) problematic substance for life was heroin. Most of the participants (n = 149, 72.7%) had used drugs several times per day. The mean duration of substance use was 7 ± 5 years. Participants (n = 177, 86.3%) reported that the substances were available in their residential areas and their friends (n = 197, 96.1%) were also using the substances.

Conclusions:

Pattern of substance use and characteristics of the individuals were unique in Sri Lanka and need to be considered when implementing and strengthening the programs for drug prevention and rehabilitation.
Environmental Health Needs Among Latinas in Cleaning Occupations: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Speiser Erin , Pinto Zipp Genevieve , DeLuca Deborah A. , Paula Cupertino Ana , Arana-Chicas Evelyn , Gourna Paleoudis Elli , Bethea Traci N. , Kligler Benjamin , Cartujano-Barrera Francisco
Published: May 2022

In the U.S., approximately half of maids and housekeeping cleaners are Latino or Hispanic, while the vast majority are women (88.3%). This largely immigrant, underserved workforce faces complex factors, which may contribute to adverse health outcomes. To understand relevant barriers and challenges, this mixed-methods study explored the environmental health needs of a heterogeneous group of Latinas in New Jersey (NJ) who clean occupationally, and consisted of 3 focus groups (N = 15) with a cross-sectional survey (N = 9), both conducted in Spanish. Participants were recruited from community-based English as a Second Language classes in Hackensack, NJ. Analysis of focus group audio recordings included descriptive and in vivo coding followed by inductive coding to explore thematic analysis. The survey responses were evaluated using descriptive statistics. As per the survey results, the environmental health needs of this population include sore muscles, back problems, asthma, other respiratory issues, migraine or headache, and skin issues (rash, etc.). In the group discussions, the roles of genetics, food, and chemical exposures in cancer etiology were of great interest and a variety of opinions on the topic were explored. Both the focus group discussions and survey responses suggested that this population also faces barriers including lack of training, chemical exposures and inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE). These barriers are compounded by daily environmental exposures from personal home cleaning practices. The development of culturally- and linguistically-appropriate interventions are warranted to better protect the health of essential occupational cleaners who keep homes, businesses and schools clean.
A Nomogram to Accurately Identify Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors Metastasizing to Distant Organs: A Study Based on Two National Population-Based Cohorts From the United States and China
Authors: Zhang Xianbin , Lu Lili , Liu Jun , Liu Weihan , Li Li , Wei Yushan , Fan Jinhu , Ma Li , Gong Peng
Published: May 2022

Background:

Distant organ metastasis is the leading cause of death in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (pNET) patients. In the present study, we aimed to develop and validate a nomogram that could accurately identify pNET metastasizing to distant organs.

Methods:

The cases extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program were assigned to the training cohort and validation cohort. The cases from the Chinese Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumors program were assigned to the external validation cohort. The strategy was developed with the support of a nomogram, and the predictive value of this strategy was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results:

In total, 2024 American cases were involved in the present study. Besides, 1450 and 574 patients were allocated into training and internal validation cohorts, respectively. In addition, 122 Chinese patients were assigned to the external validation cohort. The results of the univariate logistic regression analysis suggested that tumor grade, tumor size, and the number of metastatic lymph nodes were the risk of metastasis to distant organs, and these 3 clinicopathological characteristics were used to develop the nomogram. We observed that the accuracy of the nomogram for predicting metastasis to distant organs was 0.797, 0.819, and 0.837 in the training cohort, internal validation cohort, and external validation cohort, respectively.

Conclusions:

A predictive nomogram was developed and validated, and it showed an acceptable performance in predicting metastasis to distant organs. The results will enable clinicians to identify pNETs, metastasizing to distant organs, and develop an effective individualized therapeutic strategy for these patients.
Influence of Al2O3 nanoparticles in a lubricating oil for reciprocating engines
Authors: Barbosa de Paula Polyana , Romero Gutiérrez Ana , García-Contreras Reyes , Rodrigues de Souza Gustavo , Shedd Timothy , Raquel de Oliveira Letícia , Martins da Silva Júnior Washington , Soto Felipe
Published: May 2022

The improvement of reciprocating engine efficiency, together with the responsible use of worldwide energy resources and the reduction of pollutant emissions, are significant challenges to be addressed by the automotive industry. Friction and wear problems directly affect the engine efficiency and continue to motivate the study of more effective lubricants. The present work analyzes the contribution of the use of alumina nanoparticles (Al2O3) as additives in lubricating oil of SAE grade 5W30 to improve the efficiency of reciprocating engines. Sliding friction tests were carried out with varying concentrations and size of Al2O3 nanoparticles in the base oil, mimicking the motion between the piston rings and the cylinder liner via a universal tribometer and a High Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR). Although the addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles always showed an improved tribological behavior compared to the base oil, the best strategy to get a better lubricating property was to add low concentration (0.05 wt.%) of larger sized nanoparticles (20 nm). A reduction in Coefficient of Friction (COF) up to 11% and 34%, compared to pure oil was achieved with the universal tribometer and the HFRR, respectively. The particularities of wear mechanisms and the lubricating properties of all samples under different test conditions are examined throughout this work.
WeChat users’ debunking strategies in response to COVID-19 conspiracy theories: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Zhu Yi , Qian Peishan , Su Fang , Xu Jinghong
Published: May 2022

The current study adopted a mixed-methods approach to examine both qualitative and quantitative data of Chinese WeChat users’ strategies in response to COVID-19 conspiracy theories disseminated in WeChat. Thematic analysis based on 30 interviewees suggested interesting patterns about how such conspiracy theories were disseminated based on relationship types within WeChat groups and how different types of debunking strategies were used to counter conspiracy theories based on the relational outcomes and contexts. Quantitative data based on 588 participants suggested COVID-19 information exposures from different sources, conspiracy beliefs, exposures of conspiracy beliefs and face concerns influence WeChat users’ responses to address COVID-19-related information in WeChat platform.
Impact of a single school-based intervention for COVID-19 on improving mental health among Japanese children
Authors: Kubo Takahiro , Masuyama Akihiro , Shinkawa Hiroki , Sugawara Daichi
Published: May 2022

An underlying concern about the COVID-19 pandemic is the decline of children’s mental health. The present study is aimed to investigate whether a single school-based intervention, including self-monitoring and psychoeducation for COVID-19, effectively achieved its aim to promote children’s mental health. The study was conducted in a junior high school. We assigned the third grade as the intervention group, the second grade as the announcement group, and the first grade as the control group. We hypothesized that the intervention group would experience improved mental health and reduced fear of COVID-19 compared to the announcement and control groups. Interaction effects were observed only for depression, indicating a significant effect in the intervention group. These findings suggest that a single school-based intervention that includes self-monitoring and psychoeducation for COVID-19 can help improve children’s mental health. It is suggested that school-based interventions that intend to raise children’s awareness of COVID-19 promote their healthy development and adaptation to crises within the school.