bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theorizing Literacies as Affective Flows: Attuning to the Otherwise Possibilities of Hip-Hop's “In-the-Red Frequencies”
Authors: Dernikos Bessie P. , Nightengale-Lee Bianca , Thiel Jaye Johnson , Lenters Kimberly , Bailey Erin
Published: June 2023

In this theoretical and conceptual article, we consider how meaning-making, literacies, identities, power, privilege, and in/equities are entangled with/in non/human sociomaterial force relations. Inspired by Rose, we build theoretically on the philosophical principles of hip-hop—flow, rupture, layering, and sampling. Conceptually, we invite literacy educators to attune to “in-the-red frequencies,” or “noisy” political philosophies and practices that Black people have used to create alternative realities to white supremacist patriarchal systems of oppression. Afrodiasporic approaches to mobility and sounding pivot us away from humanist ways of knowing/being/doing/researching literacy and toward more creative, emergent, and “fugitive modes.” Ultimately, we argue that theorizing affective literacies via flow↔rupture↔layering↔sampling enables ethical teaching, learning, and research practices that respect multiple perspectives, histories, and truths; account for affect, power, privilege, positioning, and complicity; and highlight “otherwise worlds” not predicated on hegemonic whiteness, anti-Blackness, and sociopolitical violence.
Risks Associated With Undiagnosed ADHD and/or Autism: A Mixed-Method Systematic Review
Authors: French Blandine , Daley David , Groom Madeleine , Cassidy Sarah
Published: June 2023

Background:

The two most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders—Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism (ASD)—(ASD/ADHD) strongly impact individuals’ functions. This is worsened when individuals are undiagnosed and risks such as increased imprisonments, depression or drug misuse are often observed. This systematic review synthesizes the risks associated with late/undiagnosed ASD/ADHD.

Methods:

Four databases were searched (Medline, Scopus, PsychInfor, and Embase). Published studies exploring the impact of undiagnosed ASD/ADHD were included. Exclusion criteria included, lack of diagnosis status, studies not solely on ASD or ADHD, gray literature and studies not in English. The findings were summarize through a narrative synthesis.

Results:

Seventeen studies were identified, 14 on ADHD and three on ASD. The narrative synthesis identified three main themes: (1) Health, (2) Offending behavior, and (3) Day-to-day impact. The risks highlighted a significant impact on mental wellbeing and social interactions, higher risks of substance abuse, accidents and offending behavior as well as lower levels of income and education.

Discussion:

The findings suggest that undiagnosed ASD/ADHD is linked to many risks and negative outcomes affecting individuals, their families, and the wider society. The restricted number of studies on ASD are a limitation to the generalization of these findings Implications for research and practice are discussed, highlighting the importance of screening and acknowledging the possibility of ASD/ADHD in many settings such as psychiatric and forensic.
Transparency Meets Efficiency: The Case of Public Procurement in the Czech Republic
Authors: Bolcha Peter , Vozárová Pavla , Fanta Michael
Published: June 2023

This article focuses on transparency and contract publication in public procurement. Our main objective is to identify statistical associations between situations when a resulting contract is not publicly available and the outcomes of the procurement, esp. efficiency. By merging multiple databases and web scraping, we have created a unique dataset covering nearly 14,000 public procurements in the Czech Republic during the period 2018-2020. This dataset and recent legislation enable us to run empirical tests of new hypotheses, as well as control for variables already established in the empirical literature, such as procurement type, regime and authority. The results of our quantitative econometric models show that for selected types of projects, the unavailability of the contract is associated with smaller price savings as well as with more frequent single bid outcomes. For all types of projects, we found that failure to publish project prices is positively associated with single bid outcomes.
Successful Hemostasis With Prolonged Balloon Inflation at the Proximal Site of the Coronary Perforation
Authors: Zheng Xiaolong , Wang Yunxiang , Mei Yaosheng , Lai Changchun , Wang Yiqun
Published: June 2023

Coronary perforation (CP) is a rare complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and can lead to pericardial tamponade. Prolonged balloon inflation is a reasonable treatment for CP, but there is no standard recommendation on the preferable choice between the balloon site for prolonged balloon inflation (ie, proximal and in situ of the perforation). We present a rare case of successful prolonged balloon inflation at the proximal site of the CP after the failure of balloon inflation at the site of perforation. The patient developed CP during balloon inflation post-stent, rapidly progressing to cardiac tamponade. In situ prolonged balloon inflation (3 times) failed to close the CP, but proximal inflation could manage the CP. The take-home message from this case is that balloon expansion at the proximal site could be better than in situ of perforation in patients with CP after PCI.
Exploring the Understanding of Globalization: A Qualitative Study of the Urban, Educated, Middle-Class, Young Indians
Authors: Kapoor Bhumika , Sondhi Vanita
Published: June 2023

The discipline of psychology is increasingly recognizing the pervasive impact of the ever-changing socio-cultural contexts in which people are embedded. This dynamic nature of the social world is immensely impacted by globalization. As a phenomenon of psychological interest, globalization wields numerous changes across different domains and appears to continuously shape the contours of people’s experiences. Keeping this in mind, exploring people’s perceptions and understanding of globalization can serve as a good starting point to discover its diverse implications. Thus, this research focused on the experiences of urban, educated, middle-class, young people from the metropolitan context of Delhi-NCR, India. To this end, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 participants (M = 14, F = 18) between the ages of 18 to 28 years. Data were subjected to reflexive thematic analysis, using inductive coding. Emergent themes and subthemes, related to participants’ notions about globalization and its resultant socio-cultural changes along with their implications are thoroughly discussed.
Exploring the suppression mechanism of wind buffeting noise with bionic structures featuring leading-edge serrations and surface ridges
Authors: Cao Sishi , Zhang Zhifei , Wu Xiong , He Yansong , Zhang Quanzhou
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness and mechanism of wind buffeting noise suppression using a new bionic structure inspired by the quiet flight of owls. Firstly, the new bionic schemes based on NACA0012 wing with two sinusoidal leading-edge serrations and one straight leading-edge curve are used in a cavity after verifying the simulation. Then, the results of the three bionic schemes are compared and analyzed. It is found that the schemes with leading-edge serrations and surface ridges can suppress wind buffeting noise effectively. In particular, the sinusoidal scheme with a wavelength λ = 0.24 c (chord length c) can significantly reduce resonance energies above 21 dB over a wide range of speeds. Furthermore, the study reveals that in the bionic scheme, only the negative pressure core moves in the opening and hits the trailing edge, which reduces the pressure fluctuation in the cavity. The boundary layer thickness (BLT) also fluctuates in span under the influence of the leading-edge serration and the surface ridge, which is favorable for suppressing wind buffeting noise. However, the suppression effect is not solely related to the fluctuation of BLT in the span at the trailing edge but is also influenced by the minimum BLT at this point. Therefore, if the BLT has a certain intensity fluctuation in the span, and the minimum BLT at the trailing edge is close to that of the smooth airfoil scheme, the noise suppression effect is significant.
Accuracy of conventional versus cone-beam CT-synthesised lateral cephalograms for cephalometric analysis: A systematic review
Authors: Raj Grace , Raj Mary , Saigo Leonardo
Published: June 2023

Objective:

To assess the accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)-synthesised lateral cephalograms (CSLCs) compared with conventional lateral cephalograms for cephalometric analysis in human participants and skull models.

Methods:

The authors performed a search of PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Embase databases on 4 October 2021. Included studies met the following criteria: published in English; compared conventional lateral cephalograms and CSLCs; assessed hard- and soft-tissue landmarks; and were performed on human or skull models. Data extraction from eligible studies was performed by two independent reviewers. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist tool – diagnostic accuracy studies.

Results:

A total of 20 eligible articles were included in this systematic review. Of these 20 studies, 17 presented with a low risk of bias, while three were found to have a moderate risk of bias. Hard- and soft-tissue analyses were evaluated for each imaging modality. The findings reveal that CSLCs are accurate and comparable to conventional lateral cephalograms for cephalometric analysis and demonstrate good inter-observer reliability. Four studies reported a higher accuracy with CSLCs.

Conclusion:

Overall, the diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility of CSLCs were comparable to conventional lateral cephalograms in cephalometric analysis. It is justified that patients who have an existing CBCT scan do not need an additional lateral cephalogram, minimising unnecessary radiation exposure, expenses and time for the patient. Larger voxel sizes and low-dose CBCT protocols can be considered to minimise radiation exposure.

Registration:

This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021282019).
Introducing the Validation of Data Quality Indicators Through Re-Classification: The example of SQP and pretest surveys
Authors: Neuert Cornelia E , Gummer Tobias
Published: June 2023

The present study introduces the concept of validating data quality indicators through re-classification. We use the term re-classification to mean the evaluation of how well an indicator detects the quality of different versions of a survey question for which the quality is known a priori. We illustrate its application with two examples. In both, we make use of 12 questions from prior experiments that manipulated text features of questions to create ‘low’ and ‘high’ quality versions of each question. In the first example, we coded each question version in SQP 2.1 to obtain indicators of validity, reliability, and quality. We compared these indicators between the two versions of each question to assess whether the SQP outcomes were sensitive to text features. In the second example, we used a pretest survey to obtain three indicators of survey quality: response latencies, item nonresponse, and consistency over time. Again, we compared these indicators between question versions to assess whether the indicators were sensitive to text features. We give recommendations for applying re-classification and an outlook for future research opportunities.
Connecting Today: Feasibility and acceptability of a remote visiting program for people living with dementia in long-term care homes
Authors: O’Rourke Hannah M , Swindle Jennifer , Chacinski Dorothy , Dal Pizzol Fernanda Laís Fengler , Lee Heunjung , Hoben Matthias , Hopper Tammy , McGilton Katherine S , Boscart Veronique
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Social isolation and loneliness affect the quality of life of people living with dementia, yet few interventions have been developed for this population. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of ‘Connecting Today’, a remote visiting program designed for use with care home residents living with dementia.

Methods

This was a feasibility study to assess whether Connecting Today can be delivered in care homes, and was acceptable to family and friends and people living with dementia. We used a single-group before/after design and included residents ≥ 65 years old with a dementia diagnosis from two care homes in Alberta, Canada. Connecting Today involved up to 60 min per week of facilitated remote visits for 6 weeks. To understand feasibility, we assessed rates and reasons for non-enrollment, withdrawal and missing data. We assessed acceptability with the Observed Emotion Rating Scale (residents) and a Treatment Perception and Preferences Questionnaire (family and friends). Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

Results

Of 122 eligible residents, 19.7% ( n = 24) enrolled (mean age = 87.9 years, 70.8% females). Three residents withdrew from the study before the first week of calls. Among 21 remaining residents, 62%–90% completed at least 1 call each week. All the calls were completed by videoconference, rather than by phone. Alertness and pleasure were observed for ≥92% of residents during calls. The 24 contacts rated Connecting Today as logical, effective and low risk.

Conclusions

Facilitated, remote visits are feasible and highly acceptable to residents and their family and friend contacts. Connecting Today shows promise to address social isolation and loneliness for people living with moderate to severe dementia because it can promote positive engagement in meaningful interactions with their family and friends while they are living in a care home. Future studies will test effectiveness of Connecting Today in a large sample.
Class Inequalities and Participatory Democracy: Assessing the Impact of Social Inclusion Tools in Citizens’ Assemblies
Authors: García-Espín Patricia
Published: June 2023

Recent research has examined the effectiveness of inclusion tools aimed at encouraging greater involvement of disadvantaged social groups in local deliberative institutions. Most research, quantitative and qualitative, tends to examine positive outcomes, although results are frequently ambivalent. This research begins by arguing that analytical frameworks should consider the limitations of inclusion tools and that greater attention should be given to alternative approaches to inclusion (material/symbolic, formal/informal, focused/general). Based on these theoretical points, the study focuses on the views and experiences of working-class people and smallholder farmers in relation to their participation in open rural assemblies ( concejos abiertos) in the Basque Country (Spain). The research employed an ethnographic methodology involving 20 observations of assemblies/events and 55 in-depth interviews conducted between 2012 and 2015. Three inclusion tools were identified as key to the functioning of the assemblies: “administrative and technical support” for engaging with the bureaucratic processes, a legal “right to paid work leave” for board members, and the use of “multi-disciplinary boards.” The study examines the effectiveness of these tools in motivating and facilitating the involvement of participants from disadvantaged social class positions, presenting novel findings in the case of paid work leave and multi-disciplinary boards. The importance of informal practices and procedures for reducing material constraints are emphasized as well as the identification of some limitations of inclusion tools in a context of predominant elitist paradigms.
Oral ellagic acid attenuated LPS-induced neuroinflammation in rat brain: MEK1 interaction and M2 microglial polarization
Authors: Liu Yu-Ling , Huang Hui-Ju , Sheu Sheh-Yi , Liu Yu-Cheng , Lee I-Jung , Chiang Shao-Chin , Lin Anya Maan-Yuh
Published: June 2023

Ellagic acid, the marker component of peels of Punica granatum L., is known traditionally to treat traumatic hemorrhage. In this study, the cellular mechanism underlying ellagic acid-induced anti-inflammation was investigated using lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) as a neuroinflammation inducer. Our in vitro data showed that LPS (1 μg/mL) consistently phosphorylated ERK and induced neuroinflammation, such as elevation in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nitric oxide production in treated BV-2 cells. Incubation of ellagic acid significantly inhibited LPS-induced ERK phosphorylation and subsequent neuroinflammation in treated BV-2 cells. Furthermore, our in vivo study of neuroinflammation employed an intranigral infusion of LPS that resulted in a time-dependent elevation in phosphorylated ERK levels in the infused substantia nigra (SN). Oral administration of ellagic acid (100 mg/kg) significantly attenuated LPS-induced ERK phosphorylation. A four-day treatment of ellagic acid did not alter LPS-induced ED-1 elevation but ameliorated LPS-induced reduction in CD206 and arginase-1 (two biomarkers of M2 microglia). A seven-day treatment of ellagic acid abolished LPS-induced increases in heme-oxygenase-1, cyclo-oxygenase 2, and α-synuclein trimer levels (a pathological hallmark) in the infused SN. At the same time, ellagic acid attenuated LPS-induced increases in active caspase 3 and receptor-interacting protein kinase-3 levels (respective biomarkers of apoptosis and necroptosis) as well as reduction in tyrosine hydroxylase–positive cells in the infused SN. In silico analysis showed that ellagic acid binds to the catalytic site of MEK1. Our data suggest that ellagic acid is capable of inhibiting MEK1–ERK signaling and then attenuated LPS-induced neuroinflammation, protein aggregation, and programmed cell deaths. Moreover, M2 microglial polarization is suggested as a novel antineuroinflammatory mechanism in the ellagic acid–induced neuroprotection.
Characterization of Physical Function and Cancer-Related Physical Impairments in Hispanic Women With Breast Cancer: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Cristian Adrian , Rubens Muni , Cristian Chloe , Wang Grace , Mendez Jane
Published: June 2023

Introduction: This study reports characteristics of Hispanic women with breast cancer with respect to physical function, body mass index (BMI), and depression. Methods: This retrospective study included 322 Hispanic women with breast cancer. Physical function and fatigue were assessed using the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement System-Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) short form and PROMIS-Fatigue (PROMISE-F) short form. In addition, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, sit to stand in 30 s (STS30) test, four-stage balance test (4SB), and grip strength (GS) were measured. Depression was identified using Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)-2 and extracted from medical chart. Results: Nearly 40.8% were obese, and 20.8% had depression. Compared to normal BMI patients, mean PROMIS-F score was significantly higher among overweight and obese patients. The mean STS30 score was significantly lower in obese patients, compared to normal BMI patients. Regression analysis showed that the odds of depression were higher with increasing TUG and lower PROMIS-F, STS30, and GS. Conclusion: Hispanic women with breast cancer have substantial loss of physical function, and this is exaggerated if they are obese, overweight, or depressed. Clinicians caring for this population should screen them for the presence of loss of physical function, BMI, and depression.
Immuno-Biochemical Impacts of Gamma Irradiation in Male Rats: A Dose-Response Study
Authors: Hussien Soha M. , Rashed Engy R.
Published: June 2023

During radiotherapy, immune-modulatory effects of radiation doses should be taken into consideration, not only the anti-tumor radiation effects. Thus, our study aimed to study how γ-radiation modulates immune response in comparison to common immune-suppressive/stimulant agents. Animals were divided into two groups. Category A received Echinacea purpura extract (EP) or irradiated at low radiation doses 0, .25 or .5 Gray (Gy), whereas Category B received cyclophosphamide (CP) or irradiated at high radiation doses 1, 2, or 5 Gy. Serum levels of immunological mediators interleukin-10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), as well as redox-markers malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO), hemoglobin (Hgb), white and red blood cells (WBCs, RBCs), and platelet counts were assessed following irradiation. Of the immune-stimulant category, .25 Gy dose offered EP-comparable effects in TNF-α, RBCs, Hgb, and platelet counts cases. As for the immune-suppressive category; 5 Gy irradiation dose induced inflammatory/immunosuppressive responses indicated (rise in NO, TNF-α, and IL-10), and an oxidative stress status (increase in serum MDA). However, 5 Gy γ-irradiation was not observed, herein, as a single immunosuppressive agent. To conclude, during radiotherapy, immunological impact(s) of the used radiation doses should be optimized and followed-up closely to assess the risk/benefit of their usage.
An experimental investigation on the effect of nano-graphene oxide on the maximum peeling force of Al/GFRP laminates
Authors: Tamoradi Akbar , Nazari Mohammad Bagher , Hosseini Farrash Seyyed Mahdi , Gerdooei Mahdi
Published: June 2023

The effect of adding different percentages of nano-graphene oxide (NGO) into the epoxy resin on the mechanical properties of NGO/epoxy and maximum peeling force of fiber-metal laminates (FMLs) with composite cores are investigated in this paper. Three different percentages of NGO including 0.1, 0.35 and 0.50 weight percentages (wt. %) are used to fabricate the tensile test samples of NGO/epoxy. Hand lay-up method is used to fabricate FML specimens with glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) core and aluminum faces. Tensile tests are examined and the Young’s modulus and ultimate stress of NGO/epoxy samples are determined. It is found that after adding of 0.1 wt. % of NGO into the epoxy resin, the ultimate tensile strength decreased by 13.4% from 25.3 to 21.9 MPa. Moreover, using peeling test, the separation force between aluminum faces of Al/GFRP laminates are obtained. Based on the results, when 0.1 wt. % of NGO is mixed with the epoxy, the maximum peeling force of FML increases by 16% and amounts to 4 N/mm. Based on the results, when NGO is used next to micro fibers in the construction of composite core, they have an effective role on the interlayer adhesion of fibrous composites.
Oxaliplatin prior to PARP inhibitor in BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer
Authors: Nicoletto Maria Ornella , Baldoni Alessandra , Cavallin Francesco , Grego Andrea , Falci Cristina , Nardin Margherita , Mammano Enzo , Lai Eleonora , Torri Valter
Published: June 2023

Background:

The use of PARP inhibitor (PARPi) has shown a considerable benefit in progression-free survival (PFS) in relapsed, platinum-sensitive epithelial ovarian cancer (OC).

Objective:

Our study aimed to investigate the impact of the last platinum-based chemotherapy treatment in response to PARPi.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Patients and methods:

The study involved 96 consecutive, pretreated, platinum-sensitive advanced OC patients. Demographics and clinical data were retrieved from clinical records. PFS and overall survival (OS) were calculated from the start of PARPi.

Results:

Germline BRCA mutation was investigated in all cases. Platinum-based chemotherapy before PARPi maintenance therapy included pegylated liposomal doxorubicin-oxaliplatin (PLD-Ox) in 46 patients (48%) and other platinum-based chemotherapy in 50 patients (52%). During a median follow-up of 22 months from the beginning of PARPi therapy, 57 patients relapsed (median PFS: 12 months) and 64 patients died (median OS: 23 months). During multivariable analysis, receiving PLD-Ox before PARPi was associated with improved PFS [hazard ratio (HR): 0.46, 95% CI: 0.26–0.82] and OS (HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27–0.83). In 36 BRCA-mutated patients, PLD-Ox was associated with improved PFS (2-year PFS: 70.0% versus 25.0%, p = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Receiving PLD-Ox before PARPi may improve prognosis in platinum-sensitive advanced OC patients and may provide advantages in the BRCA-mutated subgroup.
Precision oncology with selective RET inhibitor selpercatinib in RET-rearranged cancers
Authors: Gouda Mohamed A. , Subbiah Vivek
Published: June 2023

Rearranged during transfection ( RET) is a protooncogene that encodes for receptor tyrosine kinase with downstream effects on multiple cellular pathways. Activating RET alterations can occur and lead to uncontrolled cellular proliferation as a hallmark of cancer development. Oncogenic RET fusions are present in nearly 2% of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), 10–20% of patients with thyroid cancer, and <1% across the pan-cancer spectrum. In addition, RET mutations are drivers in 60% of sporadic medullary thyroid cancers and 99% of hereditary thyroid cancers. The discovery, rapid clinical translation, and trials leading to FDA approvals of selective RET inhibitors, selpercatinib and pralsetinib, have revolutionized the field of RET precision therapy. In this article, we review the current status on the use of the selective RET inhibitor, selpercatinib, in RET fusion-positive tumors: NSCLC, thyroid cancers, and the more recent tissue-agnostic activity leading to FDA approval.
Real-world outcomes among patients with metastatic colorectal cancer treated first line with a bevacizumab biosimilar (bevacizumab-awwb)
Authors: Jin Ran , Ogbomo Adesuwa S. , Accortt Neil A. , Lal Lincy S. , Bishi Geetanjali , Sandschafer Darcie , Goldschmidt Jerome H.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Bevacizumab-awwb (MVASI®) was the first U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved biosimilar to Avastin® (reference product [RP]) for the treatment of several different types of cancers, including metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), an indication approved based on extrapolation.

Objectives:

Evaluate treatment outcomes in mCRC patients who received first-line (1L) bevacizumab-awwb at treatment initiation or as continuing bevacizumab therapy (switched from RP).

Design:

A retrospective chart review study.

Methods:

Adult patients who had a confirmed diagnosis of mCRC (initial presentation of CRC on or after 01 January 2018) and initiated 1L bevacizumab-awwb between 19 July 2019 and 30 April 2020 were identified from the ConcertAI Oncology Dataset. A chart review was conducted to evaluate patient baseline clinical characteristics and effectiveness and tolerability outcomes during the follow-up. Study measures were reported stratified by prior use of RP: (1) naïve patients and (2) switchers (patients who switched to bevacizumab-awwb from RP without advancing the line of therapy).

Results:

At the end of study period, naïve patients ( n = 129) had a median 1L progression-free survival (PFS) of 8.6 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 7.6–9.9] and a 12-month overall survival (OS) probability of 71.4% (95% CI, 61.0–79.5%). Switchers ( n = 105) had a median 1L PFS of 14.1 months (95% CI, 12.1–15.8) and a 12-month OS probability of 87.6% (95% CI, 79.1–92.8%). During treatment with bevacizumab-awwb, 20 events of interest (EOIs) were reported in 18 naïve patients (14.0%) and 4 EOIs reported in 4 switchers (3.8%), of which the most commonly reported events were thromboembolic and hemorrhagic events. Most EOIs resulted in emergency department visit and/or treatment hold/discontinuation/switch. None of the EOIs resulted in death.

Conclusion:

In this real-world cohort of mCRC patients who were treated 1L with a bevacizumab biosimilar (bevacizumab-awwb), the clinical effectiveness and tolerability data were as expected and consistent with previously published findings from real-world studies of bevacizumab RP in mCRC patients.
Multidisciplinary Approach to Sedation and Early Mobility of Intubated Critically Ill Neurologic Patients Improves Mobility at Discharge
Authors: Barra Megan E. , Iracheta Christine , Tolland Joseph , Jehle Johnathan , Minova Ljubica , Li Karen , Amatangelo Mary , Krause Patricia , Batra Ayush , Vaitkevicius Henrikas
Published: June 2023

Background and Purpose

Over-sedation may confound neurologic assessment in critically ill neurologic patients and prolong duration of mechanical ventilation (MV). Decreased sedative use may facilitate early functional independence when combined with early mobility. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a stepwise, multidisciplinary analgesia-first sedation pathway and early mobility protocol on medication use and mobility in the neuroscience intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

We performed a single-center prospective cohort study with adult patients admitted to a neuroscience ICU between March and June 2016-2018 who required MV for greater than 48 hours. Patients were included from three separate phases of the study: Phase I – historical controls (2016); Phase II – analgesia-first pathway (2017); Phase III – early mobility protocol (2018). Primary outcomes included propofol requirements during MV, total rehabilitation therapy provided, and functional mobility during ICU admission.

Results

156 patients were included in the analysis. Decreasing propofol exposure was observed during Phase I, II, and III (median 2243.7 mg/day vs 2065.6 mg/day vs 1360.8 mg/day, respectively; P = .04 between Phase I and III). Early mobility was provided in 59.7%, 40%, and 81.6% of patients while admitted to the ICU in Phase I, II, and III, respectively (P < .01). An increased proportion of patients in Phase III were walking or ambulating at ICU discharge (26.7%; 8/30) compared to Phase I (7.9%, 3/38, P = .05).

Conclusions

An interdisciplinary approach with an analgesia-first sedation pathway with early mobility protocol was associated with less sedative use, increased rehabilitation therapy, and improved functional mobility status at ICU discharge.
Do Conspiracy Theories Shape or Rationalize Vaccination Hesitancy Over Time?
Authors: van Prooijen Jan-Willem , Böhm Nienke
Published: June 2023

Conspiracy beliefs are associated with vaccination hesitancy, which is commonly interpreted as evidence that conspiracy theories contribute to a worldview that damages public health. An alternative, and often ignored, explanation for this relationship is that people may rationalize their existing vaccination hesitancy through conspiracy theories. In two panel studies conducted at multiple time points during the vaccination campaign of 2021, we tested the temporal relationships between COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and vaccination intentions. Study 1 (three waves in a Dutch sample) provided evidence for temporal effects of conspiracy beliefs on vaccination hesitancy and of vaccination hesitancy on conspiracy beliefs. Study 2 (two waves in a U.S. sample), however, only supported an effect of vaccination hesitancy on conspiracy beliefs over time. Although these findings provide some support for the idea that conspiracy beliefs shape increased vaccination hesitancy, they more consistently support the alternative idea that vaccination hesitancy shapes increased conspiracy beliefs.
Beyond high-tech versus low-tech: A tentative framework for sustainable urban data governance
Authors: Kostakis Vasilis , Pazaitis Alex , Liarokapis Minas
Published: June 2023

Technological imaginaries have been increasingly shaping the future perceptions of cities. From artificial intelligence and distributed ledger technology to three-dimensional printing, high-tech artifacts are very often the premises of such imaginaries. However, technology does not only refer to artifacts. Technology also encompasses the processes around the artifacts: how the artifacts are designed, manufactured, used, maintained, and disposed. From this perspective, high-tech visions often disregard problems that pertain to resource extraction, labor exploitation, energy use, and material flows. On the contrary, low-tech and localized alternatives incite lower impact and higher resilience visions. However, they fail to offer solutions of the desired scale and intensity. To address this tension, we provide an alternative vision for mid-tech: a balance between the opposite extreme qualities of low-tech and high-tech. Through a case of open-source prosthetics, we illustrate how to synergistically combine the efficiency and versatility of high-tech solutions with the potential for autonomy and resilience that low-tech offers. Then we discuss a mid-tech approach for distributed ledger technology from a city as a license lens. We provide connections with existing or conceptual applications to show how distributed ledger technology could support more socially and ecologically responsible data practices for city governance.
Antecedents and Consequences of Self-Disclosure in Subjective Well-Being: A Facebook Case With a Social Support Mediator
Authors: Hossain Md. Motaher , Islam K. M. Zahidul , Al Masud Abdullah , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Jahan Nusrat
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this paper is to investigate antecedents and consequences of self-disclosure in subjective well-being with social support as a mediator. The study model was validated by an online survey of 244 respondents. Results demonstrate that self-disclosure is significantly dependent on information, social influence, social media use, and enjoyment and it positively influences social support and subjective well-being. In addition, social support mediates the relationship between self-disclosure and subjective well-being. In the context of social networking sites, social interaction (social support) impacts more than solo action (self-disclosure) toward an individual’s online social well-being in the Covid-19 situation. Moreover, people who are prepared to share more information on Facebook may develop deeper bonding with their dear ones. This study assessed the proposed model’s functionality and reliability in light of Covid-19 pandemic in Bangladesh and our findings have implications for existing ideas of self-disclosure and social support exchange theories that are currently held.
LGBTQ+ Persons’ Experiences of Parenthood in the Context of Maternal and Child Health Care: A Meta-ethnography
Authors: Haugland Charlotte , Høgmo Bente Kristin , Bondas Terese Elisabet
Published: June 2023

This study aims to integrate and synthesize knowledge of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ+) persons’ experiences of parenthood in the context of maternal and child health care. For nurses to provide optimal care for LGBTQ+ parents, we need to derive knowledge from their perspectives. An interpretive meta-synthesis approach, meta-ethnography, was chosen for this study. A lines-of-argument synthesis based on four themes was developed: (1) Entering the world of LGBTQ+ parenthood; (2) The emotional journey in LGBTQ+ parenthood; (3) Struggling with the system as a LGBTQ+ parent and (4) A need to expand the knowledge horizon of LGBTQ+ parenthood. The overarching metaphor, “To be recognised as parents, unique and good enough, like everybody else,” reflects how recognition and inclusion may support LGBTQ+ persons in their parenthood and broaden the understanding of parenthood. Knowledge of the LGBTQ+ family needs to be given greater attention in maternity and child health care settings, and in education and health policies.
Association of Area Deprivation Index and hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and Obesity: A Cross-Sectional Study of the HABS-HD Cohort
Authors: Vintimilla Raul , Seyedahmadi Armin , Hall James , Johnson Leigh , O’Bryant Sid ,   for the HABS-HD Study Team
Published: June 2023

Objective: This study aims to investigate the association between neighborhood deprivation and the prevalence of major cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and obesity) in a Mexican American (MA) population compared to NonHispanic Whites (NHW). Method: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted to include 1,867 subjects (971 MA and 896 NHW). Participants underwent a clinical interview, neuropsychological exam battery, functional examination, MRI of the head, amyloid PET scan, and blood draw for clinical and biomarker analysis. We use the Area Deprivation Index (ADI) Model to assign an ADI score to participants based on their neighborhoods. Descriptive, Cochran-Armitage test for trend, and odds ratio statistical analysis were applied. Results: Our results suggest that NHW had higher odds of having HTN, DM, and obesity in the most deprived neighborhoods, while MA showed no increased odds. The study also found that neighborhood deprivation contributed to diabetes in both MA and NHW and was associated with obesity in NHW. Conclusions: These findings highlighted the importance of addressing both individual and societal factors in efforts to reduce cardiovascular risk. Future research should explore the relationship between socio-economic status and cardiovascular risk in more detail to inform the development of targeted interventions.
Shrimp in labs: Biosecurity and hydro-social life
Authors: Liao Yu-Kai
Published: June 2023

Since the 1980s, modern shrimp aquaculture has been seriously affected by shrimp diseases worldwide. Shrimp aquaculture cooperates with scientists in the lab to develop biosecurity strategies and biotechnology products, such as specific-pathogen-free shrimp, vaccines and probiotics, to tackle the risk of shrimp disease. Securing shrimp health needs to manage the breeding environment, particularly water quality and water ecologies. Shrimp and water travel between the lab and the field for monitoring, experimentation and disease prevention. This article proposes the notion of hydro-social life to analyse how biosecurity strategies and biotechnology products are developed in the lab and deployed in the field by visiting private, governmental and university laboratories in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta, Hô` Chí Minh City, and Taiwan. I argue that scientists innovate biotechnology products to improve biosecurity strategies by reconfiguring hydro-social lives, like managing shrimp health and water quality. The development and deployment of biosecurity from the lab to the field are influenced by capitalist forms of life and social relations.
Clinico-epidemiological profile and outcome of infected health care workers during the three consecutive waves of COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Mathew Merrin , Sebastian Juny , Doddaiah Narayanappa , Thomas Anmaria , Narayanappa Sinchana
Published: June 2023

Background:

Health care workers are considered as high-risk population, who deal with many unknown, undiagnosed, and subclinical infectious diseases in their daily life. Currently, the COVID-19 pandemic posed as an add-on burden for these frontline workers in all aspects. Although, many adverse physical and mental effects of pandemic among health care workers (HCWs) were discussed worldwide, a long-term study for delayed complications needed to be explored.

Aim:

The study evaluates and compares three waves of the pandemic in various aspects such as the incidence, prevalence, severity, risk factors, and variations in the pattern of COVID-19 infection, impact of vaccination, and post-infection complications among the HCWs.

Methodology:

A longitudinal observational study was carried out over a period of 2 years and another 6 months for follow-up. The study included all HCWs who tested positive in any one wave of COVID-19 pandemic with any one of the confirmed COVID-19 test. Each COVID-19-affected HCW was followed up through telephone calls and direct interviews conducted at the study site. Admission details and other background details of the study population were collected from the hospital records.

Results:

A total of 968 HCWs were COVID-19 positive in any of the three waves, and highest incidence (53.00%) was caused by the Omicron variant. High severity and hospitalization was observed in the first wave (no vaccination) and fully immunized personnel were found to be out of danger of being hospitalized during all succeeding waves (chi-square value: 87.04, p < 0.05). Predictors such as female gender, occupational exposure, and comorbid status were identified as possible risk factors for infection. A total of 70 HCWs reported with 104 complications, of which chronic diseases such as new onset of diabetes ( n = 3), cardiovascular events ( n = 8), worsening of preexisting comorbidities ( n = 8), etc. were found out.

Conclusions:

This study proves the benefit of being immunized rather than the risk of being infected. This study documents that immunization impacted complication and hospitalization rates of COVID-19 infection. This evidence may help in tackling vaccine hesitancy across the nations.
Assessment of household energy utilization patterns in Uganda: A latent class analysis
Authors: Tuyiragize Richard , Bassi Francesca
Published: June 2023

This study aims to identify classes and patterns of household energy utilization and the predictive factors that determine class membership. Energy is an essential part of a household's socio-economic status. By examining the household's energy utilization patterns, we can better understand how to formulate and implement efficient strategies for adopting clean energy. This study aims at identifying homogenous classes with respect to their energy patterns in Uganda and examining predictive factors of household class membership. The study uses data on 2,138 households from the 2019/2020 Uganda National Household Survey. Using latent class analysis models, a data-driven method, the study identified four latent household classes; ‘Solar-firewood’ (41%), ‘Electricity-charcoal’ (33%), ‘Moderate energy-user’ (19%) and ‘Low energy-user’ (7%). Results from the study show that the main drivers of household energy choice for cooking and lighting were age, education level, housing conditions and wealth status of the household head. This study contributes to understanding the classes and patterns of household energy utilization patterns in Uganda. These findings may help policymakers predict which latent class a household falls into in order to guarantee efficient targeting of household energy utilization policies and strategies seeking transition to cleaner energy sources.
Barriers to and facilitators of populational adherence to prevention and control measures of COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases: a qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Zaildo Tácito , Santino Thayla Amorim , Chaves Gabriela , da Silva Baldomero Antonio Kato , Alchieri João Carlos , Patino Cecilia M. , Leite Sarah , Luz Kleber Giovanni , Guerra Ricardo Oliveira , da Penha Tito Hugo Soares , da Silva Gabriel Rodrigues , Jácome Ada Cristina , Monteiro Karolinne Souza , de Mendonça Karla Morganna Pereira Pinto
Published: June 2023

Aims:

To summarise the evidence on barriers to and facilitators of population adherence to prevention and control measures for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other respiratory infectious diseases.

Methods:

A qualitative synthesis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis and the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care: Qualitative Evidence Synthesis. We performed an electronic search on MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO from their inception to March 2023.

Results:

We included 71 studies regarding COVID-19, pneumonia, tuberculosis, influenza, pertussis and H1N1, representing 5966 participants. The measures reported were vaccinations, physical distancing, stay-at-home policy, quarantine, self-isolation, facemasks, hand hygiene, contact investigation, lockdown, infection prevention and control guidelines, and treatment. Tuberculosis-related measures were access to care, diagnosis and treatment completion. Analysis of the included studies yielded 37 barriers and 23 facilitators.

Conclusions:

This review suggests that financial and social support, assertive communication, trust in political authorities and greater regulation of social media enhance adherence to prevention and control measures for COVID-19 and infectious respiratory diseases. Designing and implementing effective educational public health interventions targeting the findings of barriers and facilitators highlighted in this review are key to reducing the impact of infectious respiratory diseases at the population level.
“You’re stuck in the middle here”: a qualitative study of GPs’ experiences of managing knee pain attributed to a degenerative meniscal tear
Authors: O’Leary Helen , Robinson Katie , Glynn Liam , Lenehan Brian , McCreesh Karen
Published: June 2023

Background

Exercise is the recommended first-line therapy for a degenerative meniscal tear (DMT). Despite this, knee pain attributed to DMTs are a common presentation to specialist orthopaedic clinics. In the primary care setting, the general practitioner (GP) plays a central role in managing patients with knee pain, but to date their perspective has not been explored in relation to DMTs. This study explored GPs’ experiences of managing people with knee pain attributed to a DMT.

Methods

A qualitative research design was adopted and practices in the South and Mid-West of Ireland were contacted via recruitment emails circulated through professional and research networks. Interested GPs contacted the researchers via email, and purposive and snowball sampling was used for recruitment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted online or over the telephone. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. Data was analysed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. Ethical approval was granted by the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP_REC_21_0031).

Results

Seventeen semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted. Three main themes were identified with related subthemes: (1) GPs’ experiences of relational aspects of care, (2) GP beliefs about what constitutes best care for patients with a DMT, and (3) how GP practice is enacted within the current healthcare setting. GPs described the challenge of maintaining a strong clinical alliance, while managing perceived patient expectations of a ‘quick fix’ and advanced imaging. They reported slowing down clinical decisions and feeling ‘stuck’ with limited options when conservative treatment had failed. GPs believed that exercise should be the core treatment for DMTs and emphasised engaging patients in an active approach to recovery. Some GPs believed arthroscopy had a role in circumstances where patients didn’t improve with physiotherapy. Limited access to public physiotherapy and orthopaedic services hampered GPs’ management plans and negatively impacted patient outcomes.

Conclusions

GP beliefs around what constitutes best care for a DMT generally aligned with the evidence base. Nonetheless, there was sometimes tension between these beliefs and the patient’s own treatment expectations. The ability to enact their beliefs was hampered by limited access to conservative management options, sometimes leading to early escalation of care.