bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prescription Opioid Use before and after Diagnosis of Cancer Among Older Cancer Survivors With Non-Cancer Chronic Pain Conditions (NCPCs): An Application of Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM)
Authors: Safarudin Rudi , LeMasters Traci , Khan Salman , Sambamoorthi Usha
Published: October 2024

Background

Prescription opioids are essential in managing pain among adults with chronic pain conditions. However, persistent use over time can lead to negative health consequences. Identifying individuals with persistent use over time and their characteristics can inform clinical decision-making and aid in reducing the risk of abuse and overdose deaths.

Objective

This study aims to examine trajectories of prescription opioid use over time and factors associated with these trajectories among older cancer survivors with any non-cancer pain conditions (NCPC).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study design with longitudinal data of older (age at cancer diagnosis ≥67 years) cancer (incident breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, or non-Hodgkin lymphoma) survivors with any NCPC. Data were derived from the 2007-2015 linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)-Medicare dataset (N = 35,071). Group-Based Trajectory Modeling (GBTM) was used to identify homogeneous subgroups (distinct trajectories) of individuals based on every 90-day prescription opioid use during pre-cancer diagnosis (t1-t4), acute cancer treatment (t5-t8), and post-cancer treatment (t9-t12) periods. Biological factors, social determinants of health (SDoH), physical and mental health, medication use, health care use, and external factors associated with a trajectory membership were analyzed with multivariable multinomial logistic regressions.

Results

Four distinct trajectories of opioid use were identified: (1) increase-decrease use (6.1%); (2) short-term use after cancer diagnosis (40.6%); (3) low-use (41.0%); and (4) persistent use (12.3%). In the fully-adjusted multinomial logistic regression, the SDoH such as Non-Hispanic Black [adjusted odds ratios (AOR) = 1.69; 95%CI = 1.48, 1.93)] and rural residence (AOR = 1.49; 95%CI = 1.15, 1.94)], comorbid anxiety (AOR = 1.33; 95%CI = 1.18, 1.51), and medication use (NSAIDs - AOR = 1.20; 95%CI = 1.10, 1.30) were associated with membership in the persistent use group. Persistent use was less likely among those with higher fragmented care index (AOR = 0.95, 95%CI = 0.93, 0.97) and those living in counties with higher Medicare advantage penetration (AOR = 0.96; 95%CI = 0.95, 0.97).

Conclusions

One in eight older adults had persistent opioid use over time. The profile characteristics of this group were different from the other trajectory groups. Policies and programs to reduce chronic opioid use need to consider the intra- and inter-individual variability to reduce opioid-related morbidity and mortality.
Prediction Model of Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Huiting , Zhu Li , Zhuang Yong , Ye Xiaojian , Chen Fang , Zeng Jinshu
Published: October 2024

Background

The objective of this study is to develop a predictive model for the assessment of cervical lymph node metastasis risk in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 212 patients with PTC who underwent initial surgical treatment from August 2022 to April 2023 in 2 hospitals. Data were randomly split into 7:3 training-validation sets. Logistic regression was used for feature selection and predictive model creation. Model performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and calibration curves. Clinical utility was determined using decision curves.

Results

Among the 212 patients with PTC, 104 cases (49.1%) exhibited cervical lymph node metastasis, while 108 cases (50.9%) did not. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age (OR = 0.95), FT3 (OR = 0.41), tumor maximum diameter ≥0.9 cm (OR = 1.85), intratumoral microcalcifications (OR = 1.84), and suspicious lymph node on ultrasound (OR = 2.96) were independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis in PTC patients ( P < 0.05). The constructed model for predicting the risk of cervical lymph node metastasis demonstrated a training set ROC curve area under the curve (AUC) of 0.742 (95% CI: 0.664 - 0.821), with a cut-off value of 0.615, specificity of 87.8%, and sensitivity of 51.4%. The validation set exhibited an AUC of 0.648 (95% CI: 0.501 - 0.788), with a cut-off value of 0.644, specificity of 91.2%, and sensitivity of 43.3%. Including the BRAF V600 E mutation did not improve the model’s diagnostic performance significantly. Decision curve analysis indicated clinical feasibility of the model.

Conclusion

The predictive model developed in this study effectively predicts lymph node metastasis risk in PTC patients by incorporating ultrasound features, demographic characteristics, and serum parameters. However, including the BRAF V600 E mutation does not significantly improve the model’s diagnostic performance.
What’s in a Cue? Decoding Political Values in Applauded Statements From Ukraine’s Leading Political Talk Shows
Authors: Yanchenko Kostiantyn , Kleinen-von Königslöw Katharina
Published: October 2024

Experimental studies show that public opinion cues shape people’s perceptions of public opinion. However, the full extent of political information these cues comprise and, consequently, communicate remains unexplored. This study utilizes standardized content analysis to examine the political values in applauded statements ( n = 1,722) from Ukraine’s major political talk shows. The results suggest that applauded statements embody a complex mix of identity- and governance-oriented values, signaling to the broader audience the preferred type of political debate among those within the studio. The study enhances the literature on public opinion cues by demonstrating the significance of analyzing their underlying content.
Collaborative Journalism Around the Globe: A Systematic Review
Authors: Danso Samuel , Fosu Modestus , Serwornoo Michael Yao Wodui , Ntem Martin Thompson Kwadzo
Published: October 2024

This systematic review examines a decade of collaborative journalism research globally, extracting 40 articles from ProQuest and Scopus databases. The study underscores collaborative journalism’s efficacy in addressing cross-border issues and engaging diverse audiences but note its underexplored status in Africa. Four dimensions emerged: social media and audience engagement, journalism education and technology, challenges and barriers, and collaboration models. Identified research gaps include media policy, violence against journalists and ethical implications. The review advocates grounded studies using appropriate theories and calls for more collaborative journalism research in Africa.
Traumatic Memories as Sites of Qualitative Inquiry and Healing: Testimonios of Patriarchal and Racial Violence
Authors: Alvarez Adam
Published: October 2024

Trauma is an all-encompassing experience that crushes the soul and impacts the perceptions of reality and people. As wounded people, we often search for healing from our traumatic experiences because we yearn to be made whole again. Through exploring two personal traumatic memories involving patriarchal and racial violence, the author, as a mode of healing and me-search, grapples with two questions in this study: What is the nature of our trauma and what do we do with our traumatic memories? Building on testimonio as a qualitative mode of inquiry, the author introduces trauma testimonios, which is a qualitative method for building autobiographical accounts that, with the inclusion of observer witnesses to personal traumatic events, can function as tools to help us better understand the nature of our own traumas and what we can do with them to heal. Finally, the author offers a few reflections and insights for future research and practice.
Aotearoa’s Western governance structure: a challenge to Te Kōpuka’s allyships
Authors: Plowens Gabrielle
Published: October 2024

Te Awa Tupua (The Whanganui River Claims Settlement Act 2017), which granted legal personhood to the Whanganui River) is often discussed as a leading example of the Rights of Nature movement, which aims to grant rights to non-humans. Rather than discussing Te Awa Tupua in relation to Rights of Nature, this article offers new data on the relationships between Māori (Indigenous peoples of New Zealand), tauiwi (non-Indigenous person who has recently settled in New Zealand), and Pākehā (New Zealanders of predominantly European ancestry) stakeholders in Te Kōpuka nā te Awa Tupua (advisory body that works to uphold Te Awa Tupua; Te Kōpuka). I argue that these relationships are positive and based on collaboration because tauiwi and Pākehā stakeholders seem to grasp Māori values. However, Te Kōpuka’s mandate is challenging to achieve because of colonial and Western-minded government structures in New Zealand.
An exploratory study of resettled Rohingya refugees: Healthcare access and preventive cancer screenings
Authors: de los Reyes Wendy , Farhan Sarah , bin Zakaria Nasir , Saw Anne
Published: October 2024

Research suggests that preventive healthcare needs are high among U.S. refugees from Myanmar; yet no studies have examined healthcare patterns among U.S. Rohingya refugees. We examined participation in preventive cancer screening, healthcare access barriers, and facilitators in a community-based sample of 308 Rohingya refugees in Chicago, Illinois. Descriptives were conducted for the participation rates to preventive cancer screenings, indicated by age and gender. Chi-square tests were used to examine gender differences in barriers and facilitators in healthcare. Participants reported low participation in preventive screenings (e.g. 89.2% never received a Papanicolaou (pap) test). Healthcare access barriers were observed: 82.8% uninsured, 81.2% not knowing where to go for healthcare needs, and 55.1% needed interpretation, with men less likely to have had a doctor’s visit in the past year or a regular provider. Findings highlight the urgent need to further develop or tailor interventions to address the healthcare needs for resettled Rohingya refugees.
Tū Kaha: he mōhio ki ngā Māori o te kōmaoa waewae (Stand Strong: A qualitative study of Māori with venous leg ulcers in Aotearoa New Zealand)
Authors: Kidd (Ngāpuhi) Jacquie , Wharakura (Tainui / Ngāpuhi) Mary-Kaye , Laking (Te Whakatōhea) George , McGregor (Ngāpuhi) Dianna , Dobson Rosie , Jull Andrew
Published: October 2024

Venous leg ulcers have impact on people’s lives far beyond that of a skin lesion but these impacts have not been explored from an Indigenous perspective. We used a Māori-centered narrative approach to interview 13 Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand with venous leg ulcers. Data analysis was informed by a reflexive thematic approach and four themes were identified: Ko waewae ahau (I wear the leg); Ngā mea hōhā (annoying things); Ka tangi te ngākau (heartfelt grief); and Mamae (pain, sore, hurt). Recognizing patients’ expertise in their condition, the inclusion of whānau (family) in care planning and provision, while providing consistent advice and resource access, would all enhance the experience of venous ulcer management. Training in venous leg ulcer care needs to move beyond a focus on the leg and toward a more holistic approach that encompasses a broader understanding of patient experiences and cultural contexts when managing venous ulcers.
The Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview: Development and preliminary validation of a modified clinical interview for the assessment of suicidal thoughts and behavior in autistic adults
Authors: Hedley Darren , Williams Zachary J. , Deady Mark , Batterham Philip J. , Bury Simon M. , Brown Claire M. , Robinson Jo , Trollor Julian N. , Uljarević Mirko , Stokes Mark A.
Published: October 2024

The increased prevalence of suicide among autistic people highlights the need for validated clinical suicide screening and assessment instruments that are accessible and meet the unique language and communication needs of this population. We describe the preliminary preregistered psychometric validation of the Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview, in a sample of 98 autistic adults (58% women, 34% men, 7% nonbinary; MAGE  = 41.65, SD  = 12.96). A four-item negative affect score derived from the Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview demonstrated adequate reliability (ω = 0.796, BCa 95% confidence interval = [0.706, 0.857]), as well as good convergent validity with related measures. Ordinal Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview “categories” (1–5) demonstrated divergent validity ( rs = −0.067 to 0.081) and good convergent validity, strongly correlating with mental health ( rs = 0.446 to 0.744) and suicide assessment instruments ( rs = 0.576 to 0.696). Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview categories showed strong ability to predict participants identified by clinicians as “above low risk” of future suicide attempt (area under the curve = 0.887, posterior Mdn = 0.889, 95% credible interval = [0.810, 0.954], PAUC > 0.8 = 0.976). Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview classifications > “Category 3” provided an observed sensitivity of 0.750 ( Mdn = 0.810, [0.669, 0.948], PSe > 0.8 = 0.544) and an observed specificity of 0.895 ( Mdn = 0.899, [0.833, 0.956], PSp > 0.8 = 0.995) for “above low risk” status. Our findings indicate that the Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview is a psychometrically strong clinical assessment tool for suicidal behavior that can be validly administered to autistic adults without intellectual disability.

Lay Abstract

People with a diagnosis of autism are at increased risk of death by suicide. There is a need for clinical instruments that are adapted to the needs of autistic people. In this study, we modified and evaluated a clinical suicide interview (Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview) for use with autistic people who do not have an intellectual disability. Autistic people helped us to modify the original version of the instrument by improving the questions, providing explanations for difficult terms or concepts, and recommending that we use different rating scales. Our results support the use of Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview for assessing autistic adults without intellectual disability for suicidal thoughts and behavior. In the future, we will test how well Suicide Assessment Kit-Modified Interview works in clinical settings and with different clinical populations.
How to prevent deception: A study of digital deception in “visual poverty” livestream
Authors: Yang Kun
Published: October 2024

This study, grounded in the interpersonal deception theory (IDT), aims to analyze the new form of digital deception known as “visual poverty” in livestreaming rooms. Through a multimodal discourse analysis of the collected data, this study found three distinct linguistic strategies employed in “visual poverty” livestream: illocutionary strategy, discourse strategy, and nonverbal strategy. These strategies are designed to achieve three interactional goals: constructing a false identity, reinforcing credibility, and gaining economic benefits. Based on these findings, this study further analyzed why it is difficult to detect digital deception and proposed suggestions to prevent it. This study theoretically proposes online IDT and offers practical suggestions for preventing digital deception, bearing both theoretical and practical significance.
Communicative Democracy and Voter Choice: Evidence From a Conjoint Analysis in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Chia-hung , Wang Ching-Hsing
Published: October 2024

While prior scholarship has dedicated substantial attention to theoretically discussing communicative democracy, there has been a notable dearth of empirical research examining its political implications. This study endeavors to bridge this gap by exploring the impact of prioritizing communicative democracy in policy-making on electoral support. Through a conjoint experiment conducted in Taiwan, this study finds that candidates who emphasize communicative democracy, characterized by transparent communication, active engagement, and meaningful dialogue, are more likely to be chosen by voters over those who focus on majority rule. This preference highlights a broader desire for inclusivity and policies reflecting diverse viewpoints. As the first empirical investigation, the findings contribute to our understanding of voter values around communication and inclusivity in democracy, indicating a shift toward valuing collaborative policy development.
40 Years Later: Reassessing Views on the Core Deficit, Variability, Relapse/Recovery, and Attention in Stuttering
Authors: Kamhi Alan
Published: October 2024

The current article reassessed the views expressed in two articles written 40 years ago about the core deficit, variability, relapse and recovery, and the role of attention in stuttering. Motor factors are now generally agreed to be the core deficit underlying stuttering, but they interact dynamically over time with other factors (Smith & Weber). Variability and unpredictability of stuttering are the norm (Tichenor & Yaruss), not the exception and should be directly addressed in therapy. PWS do think too much about speech production and this negatively impacts fluency (Eichorn et al.). In the last 40 years, it has become clear that PWS have different views about recovery and relapse. There is now less emphasis on fluency itself and more about managing impacts and quality of life. This is a dramatic change from how recovery and relapse were viewed 40 years ago.
In situ energy absorption and negative Poisson’s ratio behaviors of 3D weft knitted auxetic fabrics under variant measurements
Authors: Abbas Adeel , Umair Muhammad , Awais Habib , Nawab Yasir , Khan Muhammad Imran , Hussain Muzzamal
Published: October 2024

Speculative negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) materials exhibit an auxetic response to strain in a predetermined direction due to their unusual morphologies, making them highly suitable for various specialized applications. For the rationale, these materials have immense potential in various specialized contexts. In weft-knitted auxetic fabrics, uneven tension in the purl loops leads to the distinctive curling architecture. Due to their inherent curly structure and adaptability, weft-knitted fabrics are an excellent choice for emulating NPR materials. In this study, 3D weft-knitted auxetic fabrics were created using flatbed purl knitting technology. Two distinctive patterns, comprising knit and tuck stitches, were employed. The number of stitches per repeat (SPR) was varied to assess the impact of grid size on NPR behavior. Additionally, the variation in measurement points within standard-sized characterization specimens was analyzed, revealing slight differences in auxeticity. Increasing the SPR size initially enhanced NPR behavior, up to a certain limit, beyond which the trend declined. A significant shift in NPR was observed due to material variation and inter-yarn friction, with a 27% and 28% shift of Poisson’s ratio was experienced above and below the mean, respectively. Poisson’s ratio was also positively correlated with energy absorption, suggesting that the designed materials could be effective for protective and energy-absorbing applications.
Principals as Co-Advocates for Caregivers of Children With Disabilities: Possibilities and Realizations Beyond IDEA’s Collaborative Ideal
Authors: Ocasio-Stoutenburg Lydia , Davis Juanita , Lewis Maria
Published: October 2024

Although special education and its legal provisions under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) were designed to support all children with disabilities, it has created a litigious and bureaucratic environment that further marginalizes disabled and labeled children of color and their families. Falling short of a collaborative ideal, school principals who can serve pivotal roles are often siloed from the rest of the school team, often lack special education knowledge and training beyond procedural matters, and can perpetuate inequities through their actions or inactions. We present a scenario illustrating the challenges and possibilities for school principals to promote equitable transformation through (a) an equitable, active leadership role, (b) embodying systemic equity commitments using intersectionality as praxis, (c) moving beyond school and district compliance, and (d) a co-advocacy role with families.
Using Early Intervening Services Funds to Reduce Racial Disproportionality in Special Education
Authors: Aylward Alexandra , Owen Randall , Frydman David , Greenwald Ashley , Batz Ruby
Published: October 2024

In this article, we explore how educational leadership, administration, and special education students can effectively use Coordinated Early Intervening Services (34 CFR §300.226) funding. These funds, available under IDEA Part B, aim to address racial disproportionalities in educational opportunities. Through a case study, we examine how a school principal navigates the complexities of using IDEA Part B funds for academic and behavioral support services. It highlights the challenges school leaders face and suggests activities to help educators address the root causes of racial/ethnic disproportionality in student identification, placement, and disciplinary actions.
‘I’ve seen people on the train, like really weird people’ hauntological reflections on the fear of crime
Authors: Simpson Alex , Lee Murray , McGuinness Paul
Published: October 2024

By exploring the hauntological dimensions of fear of crime, this article proposes that this phenomenon exists as an ontological absence that manifests through the spectacle of crime’s imaginary, shaping thoughts, emotions, and movements. In so doing, we highlight fear of crime’s alignment with Fisher’s concept of the eerie – a presence that at once indicates an absence and an object that points to nothing beyond itself. Building on this foundation, we incorporate Simmel’s rendering of the Stranger and Casey’s theorization of ‘thick’ and ‘thin’ places to argue that fear of crime is not solely a reaction to crime events, but manifests as a phenomenon that circulates independently, akin to Baudrillard’s simulacra, reacting against crime’s imaginary. Woven through phenomenological experiences of place, fear of crime emerges as a stain, eliciting a strong sensory, anticipatory and often pre-reflexive response that alerts us that not all is as it seems. Fundamentally, we aim to highlight how fear remains an object that points to an absence, a phantasmagoria and an atmospheric sense of dis-ease, that can engulf us all and press upon spaces, societies and bodies in equal measure.
Hollywood, a platform for shaping cultural coherence/divergence: A critical textual analysis of the representation of Iranians in contemporary Hollywood action films
Authors: Ghofrani Talayeh
Published: October 2024

This study critically analyses how the film industry shapes cultural norms and values, particularly through political agenda-setting. Using Edward Said’s concept of orientalism and neo-orientalist discourse, it examines Hollywood’s portrayal of Iran and Iranians. While past research has focused on dominant themes, this paper explores ‘minor moments’ linked to Iran and ‘minor characters’ identified as Iranians in films where the central narrative is unrelated. By addressing these depictions, the paper seeks to understand Hollywood’s role in shaping perceptions of Iranians as non-Arab, Muslim, oriental ‘others’.
Factors affecting the oral health of patients in intensive care units: a prospective observational study
Authors: Çiftçi Muhammed Ali , Efe Arslan Dilek
Published: October 2024

Background:

In the intensive care unit (ICU), oral flora changes and bacterial growth starts, negatively affecting oral health.

Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate the status of the oral mucus membranes of patients in ICUs and the factors affecting oral health.

Methods:

A descriptive and correlation design was used. The study included 151 patients in ICUs for five consecutive days. The assessments were performed using the Patient Form, Eilers Oral Health Assessment Scores and the Oral Health Assessment Chart.

Results:

Decayed teeth, magnesium levels and Glasgow coma scale were found to be effective in the first day oral health change of ICU patients and explained 22% of the oral health change, respectively. Age, decayed teeth, number of drugs used and Glasgow coma scale were found to be effective in the change in oral health of ICU patients on the fifth day and explained 35% of the change in oral health.

Conclusions:

Oral mucus membranes should be assessed closely and systematically in all critically ill patients who are of advanced age and are receiving a small number of medications, with a history of hyperglycaemia, high BUN, low albumin, hypocalcaemia, low Glasgow Coma Scale and decayed teeth.
The ups and downs of managing study abroad: Insights from Spanish higher education
Authors: Mocanu Vasilica
Published: October 2024

This study delves into the experiences with managing study abroad reported by two mobility programs stakeholders: the vice-dean of International Relations and an Erasmus coordinator at a Faculty of a Spanish University. By means of content analysis of semi-structured interviews, this article aims to shed light on the intricacies of study abroad management in Spain, focusing on: 1) the types of study abroad programs that they are in charge of and their peculiarities, 2) the evolution of study abroad management in their institution, taking into account the pre- and post-pandemic period, and 3) the constraints and improvements to study abroad programs management that they are cognizant of. By approaching two types of stakeholders, considered to represent top-down and bottom-up study abroad management, the present study aims to triangulate perceptions from different actors that participate in the governance and guidance of study abroad in Spanish higher education.
Diagnosis and management of adult Moyamoya angiopathy: An overview of guideline recommendations and identification of future research directions
Authors: Rifino Nicola , Hervè Dominique , Acerbi Francesco , Kuroda Satoshi , Lanzino Giuseppe , Vajkoczy Peter , Bersano Anna
Published: October 2024

Despite the progress made in understanding the management and outcomes of Moyamoya angiopathy (MMA), several aspects of the disease remain largely unknown. In particular, evidence on the disease history and management of MMA is lacking, mainly due to methodological and selection biases in the available studies and the lack of large, randomized prospective studies. Therefore, the care of MMA patients remains limited to a few expert centers worldwide, and management is often based on local expertise and available resources. Over the years, recommendations or expert opinions have been written to provide guidance to physicians in the treatment of this condition with the goal of reducing the risk of stroke recurrence and long-term disability. However, there is no complete agreement between the available guidelines and recommendations due to differences in the articles addressed, methodologies, expertise, and validated approaches to literature review. This lack of consensus on the management of MMA may confuse clinicians and highlight some important issues and points. The aim of this comprehensive review article is to critically examine three recent guidelines and recommendations on MMA, discussing their differences and similarities and highlighting gaps in MMA care that need to be covered.
Small volume fluid resuscitation and supplementation with 20% albumin versus buffered crystalloids in adults with septic shock: A protocol for a randomised feasibility trial
Authors: Bannard-Smith Jonathan , Bellomo Rinaldo , Felton Tim W. , McAuley Daniel F. , Kitchen Gareth B. , Fullwood Catherine , Thompson Alexander , Dark Paul M.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Fluid therapy is universally administered in the management of patients with sepsis, however excessive cumulative fluid balance has been shown to result in worse outcomes. Hyperoncotic albumin results in both lower fluid volumes and early cumulative fluid balance, and may reduce short-term mortality in patients with septic shock.

Methods:

In this single centre, open label, feasibility trial; patients with early septic shock will be randomly allocated either 20% albumin for resuscitation and daily supplementation, versus buffered crystalloids alone for all fluid therapy. The intervention period will last 7 days, with follow up points at ICU and hospital discharge, and 90 days after randomisation.

Objectives:

Primary outcome measures including recruitment rate, intervention adherence, data completeness and safety will constitute objective evidence of feasibility, according to pre-specified thresholds. Secondary outcomes will include mortality and healthcare utilisation at 90 days, alongside other physiological and patient centred outcomes to inform the design of a future effectiveness trial.

Conclusion:

This study will rigorously test the feasibility of conducting a future trial to test both the clinical and cost-effectiveness of hyperoncotic albumin in patients with early septic shock.
The ties that bind think tanks and parties in EU member states
Authors: Walle Britt Vande , Hecke Steven Van
Published: October 2024

Think tanks linked to political parties, known as political party think tanks (PPTTs), exist in various EU member states and play particular roles in their respective political systems. This article provides the first comprehensive overview of these PPTTs, focusing on their party affiliation. Based on data collected from PPTT websites and exploratory contacts with PPTTs, we categorise the EU member states into two groups: those with PPTTs in sensu stricto, that is, where the PPTTs have recognised party affiliations, and those where the PPTTs have hidden party-political affiliations. Understanding PPTTs is essential for comprehending their roles at both the national and the EU level.
Blast wave ingress into a room through an opening – Review of past research and US DoD UFC 3-340-02
Authors: Eytan Alex , Forth Shaun A , Pickering Erik G , Hazael Rachael , Burrows Stephanie J
Published: October 2024

Blast wave ingress into a room through a facade opening results in complex pressure-time loadings on interior surfaces due to shock diffraction and interior reflections. The U.S. DoD UFC 3-340-02 Structures to Resist the Effects of Accidental Explosions includes a method to predict internal loading for such cases. Parameters such as the opening size, room dimensions and the external pressure wave characteristics influence the interior loading. Recent work suggests that the UFC methodology might overpredict the interior loading by some 600%. Such conservatism can result in over-engineered or prohibitively expensive protective solutions. In this paper we critically review the methodology of the UFC, that of Kaplan’s preceding work (on which the UFC relies), and the experimental data that informed both these works. Through a series of 45 case-studies we compare the UFC and Kaplan’s predictions with those of a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. The UFC consistently overpredicts the CFD area-averaged peak pressure of the back wall by up to 290% and the side-wall by up to 425%. Similarly, the UFC overpredicted the CFD side wall positive phase impulse by up to 565%. By contrast, the UFC predicted back wall positive phase impulse was similar to the CFD results. As our CFD results for side and back walls are area averaged, and not solely for the wall centre-point, as in other recent work, our paper gives support for the use of CFD prediction over the UFC for cost-effective design of structures to resist blast ingress.
Characteristics and Healthcare Utilization of Canadians Living With Participation and Activity Limitations (2001-2010): A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Dan , Wong Jessica J. , Hogg-Johnson Sheilah , Mior Silvano A. , Côté Pierre
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Individuals with participation and activity limitations face important healthcare challenges.

Objectives:

We investigated healthcare utilization and characteristics of Canadians living with participation and activity limitations between 2001 and 2010.

Methods:

We pooled data from 5 cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey (2001-2010 CCHS). The multistage stratified cluster-sampling method used covered approximately 98% of Canadians, aged 12 years and older residing in private dwellings. We described sociodemographic, behavioral, and health-related characteristics of participants with participation and activity limitations and reported their annual utilization (prevalence; 95% CI) of 7 healthcare providers. Multivariable modified Poisson regression identified individual characteristics associated with healthcare utilization and examined the trends over time.

Results:

Annually, 8.1 million Canadians aged 12 years and older (29.8%) reported participation and activity limitations. Most common health conditions were back problems (37%) and arthritis (34%). Predominant healthcare providers were medical doctors (88.8%; 95% CI = 88.6-89.0), nurses (16.3%; 95% CI = 16.1-16.6), physiotherapists (15.0%; 95% CI = 14.7-15.2), and chiropractors (14.4%; 95% CI = 14.2-14.7). Overall, males, older adults, immigrants, those with lower education, lower income, recent employment, and better general health were less likely to consult providers. Over time, utilization of most non-medical providers increased.

Conclusion:

Participation and activity limitations are prevalent in Canada, and most consulted medical doctors. Disadvantaged groups reported lower utilization of most providers, emphasizing access challenges and the need for equitable and integrated healthcare policies. Improving access to rehabilitation services and their inclusion within universal healthcare coverage should be a priority.
The Journey to Teruel: Immigrant Women’s Pathways to the Domestic Sector in Rural Spain
Authors: Perrote Héctor Goldar , Garvik Marianne , Valenta Marko
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to deepen the understanding of the motivations and pathways that lead immigrant women to pursue employment in the home-based, elderly care sector in the Spanish countryside. To this end, we examine the individual perspectives of several foreign-born women engaged in this occupation across various small villages in Teruel, a sparsely populated province in eastern Spain. Relying predominantly on the aspirations–capabilities framework, we make the case that employment in the sector is on many occasions exploitative, but that it also may provide an often-needed opportunity for migrants to relocate to the Global North. In the context of our study we argue that these processes of relocation showcased elements of both precarious and improvement migration, and that they were driven primarily by limited economic prospects in many of the interviewees’ countries of origin. Additionally, we explore the relationship between constraints on international mobility and the aspirations of the study participants to improve their life circumstances by examining their migration pathways, the challenges they faced as newcomers, and the specifics of securing jobs and establishing new lives in the Spanish countryside.
Optical genome mapping of structural variants in Parkinson’s disease-related induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Trinh Joanne , Schaake Susen , Gabbert Carolin , Lüth Theresa , Cowley Sally A. , Fienemann André , Ullrich Kristian K. , Klein Christine , Seibler Philip
Published: October 2024

Background

Certain structural variants (SVs) including large-scale genetic copy number variants, as well as copy number-neutral inversions and translocations may not all be resolved by chromosome karyotype studies. The identification of genetic risk factors for Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been primarily focused on the gene-disruptive single nucleotide variants. In contrast, larger SVs, which may significantly influence human phenotypes, have been largely underexplored. Optical genomic mapping (OGM) represents a novel approach that offers greater sensitivity and resolution for detecting SVs. In this study, we used induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines of patients with PD-linked SNCA and PRKN variants as a proof of concept to (i) show the detection of pathogenic SVs in PD with OGM and (ii) provide a comprehensive screening of genetic abnormalities in iPSCs.

Results

OGM detected SNCA gene triplication and duplication in patient-derived iPSC lines, which were not identified by long-read sequencing. Additionally, various exon deletions were confirmed by OGM in the PRKN gene of iPSCs, of which exon 3–5 and exon 2 deletions were unable to phase with conventional multiplex-ligation-dependent probe amplification. In terms of chromosomal abnormalities in iPSCs, no gene fusions, no aneuploidy but two balanced inter-chromosomal translocations were detected in one line that were absent in the parental fibroblasts and not identified by routine single nucleotide variant karyotyping.

Conclusions

In summary, OGM can detect pathogenic SVs in PD-linked genes as well as reveal genomic abnormalities for iPSCs that were not identified by other techniques, which is supportive for OGM’s future use in gene discovery and iPSC line screening.
Cognitive functions explain discrete parameters of normal walking and dual-task walking, but not postural sway in quiet stance among physically active older people
Authors: Falk Jimmy , Eriksson Sörman Daniel , Strandkvist Viktor , Vikman Irene , Röijezon Ulrik
Published: October 2024

Background

Postural control is dependent on the central nervous system’s accurate interpretation of sensory information to formulate and execute adequate motor actions. Research has shown that cognitive functions are associated with both postural control and fall risk, but specific associations are not established. The aim of this study was to explore how specific components of everyday postural control tasks are associated with both general and specific cognitive functions.

Methods

Forty-six community-dwelling older adults reported their age, sex, physical activity level, falls and fall-related concerns. The following cognitive aspects were assessed: global cognition, executive functions, processing speed and intraindividual variability. Postural control was quantified by measuring postural sway in quiet stance, walking at a self-selected pace, and walking while performing a concurrent arithmetical task. Separate orthogonal projections of latent structures models were generated for each postural control outcome using descriptive and cognitive variables as explanatory variables.

Results

Longer step length and faster gait speed were related to faster processing speed and less intraindividual variability in the choice reaction test. Moreover, longer step length was also related to less fall-related concerns and less severe fall-related injuries, while faster gait speed was also related to female sex and poorer global cognition. Lower dual-task cost for gait speed was explained by the executive function inhibition and faster processing speed. Postural sway in quiet stance was not explained by cognitive functions.

Conclusions

Cognitive functions explained gait speed and step length during normal walking, as well as the decrease of gait speed while performing a concurrent cognitive task. The results suggest that different cognitive processes are important for different postural control aspects. Postural sway in quiet stance, step time and gait variability seem to depend more on physical and automatic processes rather than higher cognitive functions among physically active older people. The relationships between cognitive functions and postural control likely vary depending on the specific tasks and the characteristics of different populations.
Partial hand and finger amputations in Sweden: an observational study of 6918 patients
Authors: Magnéli Martin , Axenhus Michael
Published: October 2024

Background

We aimed to use open source data to understand the incidence, trends, and regional differences of finger and partial hand amputations on a national level in individuals aged 15 or older in Sweden.

Methods

We analyzed 6,918 patients aged 15 and older who had experienced finger and partial hand amputations. Incidence rates, trends, and regional disparities were assessed using negative binomial regression models and Student’s t-tests. Future trend prediction was performed using Poisson regression.

Results

Finger amputations declined most, followed by partial hand and thumb amputations. Regional variations existed, with Stockholm having the lowest and Gotland highest incidence respectively. Overall, the incidence of finger, thumb and partial hand amputations in Sweden decreased slightly. Future trend analysis indicated decreasing incidence.

Conclusion

Although, lacking in definition, publicly available data can be used for monitoring of finger, thumb, and partial hand amputation incidence on a national level. Sex, age, and regional differences were observed, suggesting the need for targeted interventions to address disparities and mitigate the burden of finger and partial hand amputations on affected individuals.
Physical/mechanical and antibacterial properties of composite resin modified with selenium nanoparticles
Authors: ElSheikh Sara Khaled , Eid El-Sayed Gad , Abdelghany A. M. , Abdelaziz Dina
Published: October 2024

Background

Accumulation of biofilm over composite resin restorations is one of the principal causes of recurrent caries. Therefore, this study aimed to develop antibacterial composite resins by crystalline selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), assessing the antibacterial, mechanical, and physical properties of the composite resin after SeNPs incorporation.

Methods

SeNPs were synthesized via a green method. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nano-filled composite (Filtek™ Z350XT ) was considered as a control group (G0). Two concentrations of SeNPs (0.005 wt% and 0.01 wt%.) were added to the tested resin composite (G1& G2), respectively. The physical/mechanical and antibacterial properties of the composite specimens (n = 10/group) were characterized. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to analyze these data followed by Bonferroni post hoc test for pairwise comparison.

Results

Modified composites with SeNPs showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. mutans. Mechanical properties including diametral tensile strength, compressive strength, or surface roughness were not affected by nano-incorporation compared to control. Furthermore, the degree of conversion showed no statistical difference. However, SeNPs incorporation into resin composite produces color change that can be visually perceived.

Conclusions

The green synthesized SeNPs significantly improved the antimicrobial properties of the dental composite without compromising mechanical performance. However, it shows color change after SeNPs incorporation.
Three-dimensional assessment of the skeletal characteristics accompanying unilateral maxillary canine impaction: a retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study
Authors: Eid Farah Y. , Ghaleb Sherifa I. , Badr Fatma F. , Marzouk Eiman S.
Published: October 2024

Background

Environmental and genetic factors associated with canine impaction have been extensively researched, whereas the bone characteristics in the impaction area have not been thoroughly studied. Accordingly, the objective of this investigation was to provide a skeletal assessment in terms of bone density, bone microstructure, bone volume, and palatal volume in subjects with unilaterally impacted maxillary canines.

Methods

A retrospective design has been employed to address the aim of this study, where the initial pre-treatment cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of 30 patients with unilateral maxillary canine impaction were assessed. The obtained patients’ data were equally divided according to the location of the impaction into 2 groups, one with buccally impacted canines, and another with palatal impactions, with the contra-lateral sides in both groups serving as the controls. Skeletal measurements such as bone density (BD), bone microstructure in terms of fractal dimension (FD), maxillary bone volume (MBV), and palatal volume (PV) were evaluated from the acquired CBCTs in both groups and compared to the controls.

Results

With buccal impactions, significantly greater BD and FD have been reported (p < 0.001), whereas non-significant differences were found regarding the PV when compared with controls (p = 0.56). MBV was significantly greater on the non-impaction side in comparison with buccal impaction sides (p < 0.001). For palatal impactions: BD, FD, and MBV were significantly greater on the impaction sides (p < 0.001), and conversely with PV which has been reported to be significantly greater on the non-impaction sides (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

As per the obtained results, buccally impacted canines are associated with greater BD and FD, and less MBV, whereas palatally impacted canines are accompanied with greater BD, FD, and MBV, in addition to less PV, when both conditions are compared with the non-impaction sides.
Does selective root canal retreatment preserve the tooth’s fracture resistance? An ex-vivo study
Authors: Turky Mohammed , Mortada Abd Elfatah Yasmine Ahmed , Hamdy Shaimaa
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To assess the tooth’s fracture resistance when submitted to a selective root canal retreatment compared to the conventional approach.

Methods

33 intact permanent mandibular first molars were selected according to specific criteria. After teeth mounting, the primary root canal treatment was conducted and followed by thermo-mechanical aging procedures to mimic a few clinical conditions. The specimens were randomly divided into three groups (n = 11); a control group in which intact teeth were used and two experimental groups according to the retreatment approach: conventional non-surgical retreatment (Conventional-NSR), and selective non-surgical retreatment (Selective-NSR). Later, the teeth were submitted to a final thermo-mechanical aging procedure and tested regarding their fracture resistance (static fracture test). The maximum load to fracture was recorded as were the types of failure modes (repairable or non-repairable fracture). A proper statistical analysis was conducted, considering a significance level of 5%.

Results

The Conventional-NSR group showed a mean failure load of 867.7 ± 108.9 N while the Selective-NSR group had 1106.8 ± 159.8 N (P = 0.012). Both retreatment groups showed significantly lower results when compared to the control group. Additionally, the Conventional-NSR group showed higher proportions of non-repairable fractures (54.5%) when compared to both the Selective-NSR (36.4%) and control (18.2%) groups.

Conclusions

Selective root canal retreatment preserved the tooth’s fracture resistance compared to the conventional retreatment approach.

Clinical trial number

Non-applicable. Conducting the current experiment was limited to obtaining approval from the local Research Ethics Committee at the Faculty of Dentistry, Minia University (Committee No. 105, Registration No. 902, Date: 26/3/2024).