bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance evaluation of large-size tilting-pad thrust bearings based on results from small-size models
Authors: Michał Wodtke , Michał Wasilczuk
Published: February 2025

Large hydrodynamic tilting-pad thrust bearings can exceed diameters of 5 meters, which makes them difficult to test experimentally, which is important in the case of new designs. Therefore, smaller test bearings should be used to fulfil the demand for experimental verification. However, due to the complexity of thermal and flow phenomena, the choice of parameters in scaled tests is not obvious. In this paper dimensional analysis was used to determine the parameters that account for all relevant phenomena in the full-size bearing. As a result of the rigorous use of dimensional analysis, a set of scaling factors was determined. Calculations using an advanced Fluid Solid Interaction (FSI) model showed that the results for a large bearing and its scaled model perfectly agree. However, in the practical planning of the experiments, some parameters after appropriate scaling would be challenging to obtain – e.g., material properties. Next, it was checked if a more liberal approach, namely, leaving some less important parameters without proper scaling, would still allow for a good agreement of the results between a large bearing and a scaled model. The results showed, however, that all parameters have a great influence on the results. Without rigorous application of the dimensional analysis, the similarity between a large bearing and its scaled model is not obtained. The authors recommend that only rigorous dimensional analysis yields proper results. Experiments on small bearings should rather be used to verify theoretical calculation models and it seems impossible to carry out properly scaled experiments.
On algorithmic mediations
Authors: Roumbanis Lambros
Published: February 2025

In this article, the main focus will be to analyze the notion of mediation in an attempt to apply it to one of the major topics of our time: the increasing impact of AI technologies in social life. Mediation being essentially a relational concept, I will start by linking it to the relational thinking developed in sociological theory and postphenomenology. My own contribution will be to take a substantialist position and to define what I consider to be the ecstatic dimension of relationality, re-interpreted via the notion of “being-toward.” I will also draw on Sartre's socio-materialist understanding of mediation, focusing in particular on his general conceptualization of the “practico-inert field.” A metaphorological approach will be presented in the final part of the study to illustrate the relations between humans and AI technologies. Three metaphors will be used to explore the meaning of algorithmic mediations: “vampire objects,” “bewitched quantities,” and “frozen voices.” These metaphors will be interpreted in light of empirical phenomena: (a) algorithmically generated “synthetic data,” (b) “high-frequency trading,” and (c) AI recruitment chatbots in hiring.
Storytelling in the Australian 2023 voice referendum campaign
Authors: Vromen Ariadne , Rutledge-Prior Serrin , Vaughan Michael
Published: February 2025

Personal stories are a strategic tool often used by advocacy movements to pursue claims for equality. In the 2023 Voice referendum campaign in Australia, personal storytelling was used by the conservative No campaign to argue against the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Through narrative analysis of the Yes and No campaigns, we highlight two storytelling dynamics. First, the autobiographical hero narrative, fused with the Australian ‘fair go’, to de-historicise inequality and de-emphasise experiences of colonisation and systemic racism. Second, personal storytelling’s strength in emphasising shared identity between storytellers and the public helped the No campaign’s defence of the status quo and their claims that constitutional recognition would be divisive. These narratives set the agenda for the campaign, making it difficult for the Yes campaign’s use of community strengths-based stories to convince the public that recognition of difference was key to achieving greater equality.
Exploring trans youths’ future orientations as a product of experiences of dis/affirmation
Authors: Lim Gene , Buckingham Philippa , McGowan Ivy , Grant Ruby , Amos Natalie , Anderson Joel , Bourne Adam
Published: February 2025

Trans youths’ future orientations are important but seldom discussed within the literature. Compared to their cisgender peers, the developmental trajectories of this group are characterised by considerable change, and highly subject to prevailing political climates. Here, we explore trans youths’ future orientations as a product of present-day experiences of identity-affirming factors. Some 1679 trans youth aged 14–21 responded to two open-ended items asking them about their experiences of gender affirmation, as well as their future goals and aspirations. Data analysis adopted a procedure inspired by thematic analysis. The findings highlighted close links between future orientations and present-day experiences of affirmation. Where the latter were absent, participants appeared less able to envision positive future orientations beyond the fulfilment of the need for social and interpersonal acceptance. Gender-affirming experiences are not only integral to the well-being of trans youths in the present, but also facilitate their ability to envision a future to work towards.
Clinical prediction model for gangrenous appendicitis: A retrospective single-center study
Authors: Suzuki Toshiyuki , Matsumoto Akiyo , Sugiki Daisuke , Akao Takahiko , Matsumoto Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

Background and aims:

Gangrenous appendicitis, a type of complicated appendicitis, is an indication of emergency surgery due to a high risk of perforation. However, it can be challenging to diagnose preoperatively. This study aimed to validate the predictive factors of patients with gangrenous appendicitis and develop a novel scoring model based on objective parameters.

Methods:

This retrospective single-center study included 171 of 302 consecutive patients undergoing appendectomy between April 2014 and December 2023. Patients with perforation, chronic appendicitis, and appendicitis presenting with an abscess were excluded from the analysis. In other words, the study targeted Grades 1 and 2 on the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) severity assessment scale. Computed tomography (CT) scan value was defined as the average value of fluid in the appendix lumen on plain CT scan. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the independent objective predictors of gangrenous appendicitis. A new scoring model was developed based on the logistic regression coefficients of the independent predictors. The scores were then classified into three categories, and the probability of gangrenous appendicitis for each category was evaluated.

Results:

Overall, 46 (27%) and 125 (73%) patients presented with gangrenous appendicitis (=AAST Grade 2) and non-gangrenous (uncomplicated) appendicitis (=AAST Grade 1), respectively. The independent predictive factors of gangrenous appendicitis included a CT value of ≥24 HU, an appendiceal diameter of ≥12 mm, the presence of cecal mucosal edema, and a C-reactive protein level of ≥5.4 mg/dL. The scoring model, based on these four independent predictors, ranged from 0 to 4. The probability values of gangrenous appendicitis were 0%, 15%, and 97% in the low (0)-, moderate (1, 2)-, and high (3, 4)-risk categories, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our scoring model may assist in decision-making concerning emergency surgery and appendicitis management.
Facilitating well-being with female social workers in northern Canada: A participatory narrative inquiry
Authors: Yurach Wanda Seidlikoski , Ramsden Vivian R
Published: February 2025

Limited information exists on the lived experiences and well-being of female social workers providing mental health services in northern Canada. Participatory narrative inquiry was utilized as a collaborative approach to gather stories from/with outsider female social worker mental health providers herein referred to as providers. Ten providers participated in this project through individual and group semistructured interviews in three phases. Transcribed interviews from each phase were analyzed through participatory narrative analysis to collaboratively generate themes, while ensuring the context of participant stories was maintained.

Findings

Collaborative participatory narrative analysis of participant stories revealed the following major themes: the work is complex and impactful including direct and/or indirect secondary trauma; safety and well-being supports are required; relationships are central to the work; and personal growth and understanding the trauma history of Indigenous peoples is crucial to carrying out northern trauma services.

Applications/conclusion

Providers believe that they need to feel safe and supported to protect their personal well-being and, in turn, to effectively carry out trauma services. However, current northern work environments lack networking, clinical supervision, and the safety supports required to meet the providers’ needs. Well-being support recommendations for providers included: adopt a strength-based attitude/outlook as well as an effective long-term relational team-based practice approach, improve networking through a “community of practice,” develop trauma-informed northern work-specific competencies and training, and advocate for safety improvements as well as governance agency provider supports.
Optimizing Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Preoperatively May Reduce Complications and Improve Outcomes in Infrainguinal Endovascular Revascularization
Authors: Li Renxi , Silverman Rachel , Sidawy Anton , Nguyen Bao-Ngoc
Published: February 2025

Background:

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are both systemic inflammatory diseases that may share similar pathophysiological pathways. Given their potential overlap, the impact of COPD on perioperative outcomes following infrainguinal endovascular revascularization warrants further examination. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the 30-day postoperative outcomes for COPD patients after infrainguinal endovascular revascularization.

Methods:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and non-COPD patients who underwent infrainguinal endovascular revascularization were identified in the ACS-NSQIP database from 2012 to 2022. Exclusion criteria included aged less than 18 years and emergency cases. A 1:1 propensity-score matching was used to match demographics, baseline characteristics, symptomatology, and anesthesia. Thirty-day postoperative outcomes were compared.

Results:

Of 24 223 patients who underwent infrainguinal endovascular revascularization, 2472 (10.21%) had COPD. All COPD patients were 1:1 propensity-score-matched to the non-COPD patients. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients had higher risks of mortality (3.24% vs 2.18%, p=0.03), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (3.48% vs 2.47%, p=0.04), pulmonary complications (3.24% vs 2.02%, p=0.01), and 30-day readmission (15.41% vs 13.23%, p=0.03). All other 30-day outcomes were comparable between the groups.

Conclusion:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease independently increases the risk of 30-day mortality and cardiopulmonary complications after infrainguinal endovascular revascularization. Identification and optimization of COPD patients before considering invasive treatment can be important for preventing complications. Patients may undergo mini-spirometry to screen for COPD. If identified, COPD patients may begin intensive inhalation therapy and medical treatment prior to the surgery.

Clinical Impact

Both PAD and COPD are systemic inflammatory diseases that may share similar pathophysiological pathways. This study analyzed the 30-day postoperative outcomes for COPD patients after infrainguinal endovascular revascularization. It was found that COPD independently increases the risk of mortality, cardiopulmonary complications, and 30-day readmissions. Identification and optimization of COPD patients before considering invasive treatment can be important for preventing complications in infrainguinal endovascular revascularization. Patients may undergo mini-spirometry to screen for COPD. If identified, COPD patients may begin intensive inhalation therapy and medical treatment prior to the surgery.
Fenestrated/Branched Physician-Modified Endovascular Grafts for Aortic Pathologies Involving the Aberrant Subclavian Artery
Authors: Yu Lu , Jiang Xiaolang , Qiao Guanyu , Zhou Min , Fu Weiguo , Dong Zhihui
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

The case series aim to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of using fenestrated/branched physician-modified endovascular grafts (PMEGs) to treat aortic pathologies involving the aberrant subclavian artery (ASA).

Technique:

We presented 3 cases with multiple anomalies and complications related to the ASA. Two patients had aberrant right subclavian arteries (ARSA) and developed aortic dissection spontaneously or iatrogenically after endovascular intervention for myocardial infarction. The third patient had an aberrant left subclavian artery (ALSA) together with a Kommerell’s diverticulum (KD) arising from a right-sided aortic arch and developed an aortic dissection. In all 3 cases, an Ankura thoracic endograft (Lifetech, Shenzhen, China) was back-table modified by adding an inner branch and a fenestration for bilateral subclavian arteries, respectively. All procedures were successfully conducted, and all patients underwent 6-month follow-up courses, which were uneventful.

Conclusion:

Our case series demonstrate a feasible and less invasive therapeutic approach, which produces promising results in treating the aortic pathologies involving the ASA. Further studies and long-term follow-up are required to refine this technical approach and to validate its durability.

Clinical Impact

The case series illustrate a total endovascular approach to treat aortic arch pathologies involving the ASA, which is one of the most frequent aortic arch anomalies. The use of PMEGs allows meticulous subclavian artery reconstruction without significant trauma brought by traditional open or hybrid approach. Our cases suggest that using PMEGs for total endovascular management of patients with ASA is feasible and effective, and it may help streamline the treatment of complex aortic pathologies.
Local Versus General Anesthesia in Emergency Endovascular Repair of Infrarenal Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Li Renxi , Sidawy Anton , Nguyen Bao-Ngoc
Published: February 2025

Background:

While general anesthesia (GA) has been the common choice of anesthesia for patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), local anesthesia (LA) has been proposed as an effective alternative for eligible patients. However, the choice of anesthesia in emergency EVAR situations remains less explored. Therefore, this study aimed to perform a retrospective analysis to compare the 30-day outcomes of patients who underwent emergency infrarenal EVAR receiving either LA or GA.

Methods:

Patients who underwent emergency infrarenal EVAR were identified in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) targeted database from 2012 to 2022. Exclusion criteria included age less than 18 years, acute intraoperative conversion to open surgery, and intraoperative anesthesia conversion. The 1:1 propensity-score matching and multivariable logistic regression were separately used to balance preoperative factors between patients who received LA and GA. Thirty-day postoperative outcomes were examined.

Results:

There were 258 (14.58%) and 1512 (85.42%) patients who underwent emergency EVAR under LA and GA, respectively. After multivariable analysis, patients who were under LA had lower mortality (11.24% vs 13.96%, aOR=0.61, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.395-0.944, p=0.03), pulmonary complications (10.85% vs 17.59%, aOR=0.495, 95% CI=0.322-0.76, p<0.01), renal complications (5.04% vs 7.47%, aOR=0.545, 95% CI=0.303-0.983, p=0.04), wound complications (0.39% vs 3.64%, aOR=0.089, 95% CI=0.012-0.649, p=0.02), and 30-day readmission (6.59% vs 11.24%, aOR=0.564, 95% CI=0.334-0.953, p=0.03). Moreover, patients under LA had shorter operative time (p<0.01) and shorter length of stay (p=0.02).

Conclusion:

The LA is associated with better 30-day outcomes in emergency infrarenal EVAR. Therefore, in emergency EVAR, it may be advisable to consider LA over GA for eligible patients. Prospective studies in the future can be warranted to further support this anesthesia practice.

Clinical Impact

The choice of anesthesia in emergency endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) remains unexplored. This study performed a retrospective analysis to compare the 30-day outcomes of patients who underwent emergency infrarenal EVAR receiving local anesthesia (LA) or general anesthesia (GA). After propensity-score matching/multivariable analysis to balance preoperative differences, patients under LA were found to have lower 30-day mortality, pulmonary, renal, and wound complications, 30-day readmission, shorter operative time, and shorter hospital stay. In emergency EVAR, it may be advisable to consider LA over GA for eligible patients. Prospective studies in the future can be warranted to further support this anesthesia practice.
Comparison of Quantitative-Electroencephalogram (q-EEG) Measurements Between Patients of Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) and Parkinson Disease Dementia (PDD)
Authors: Rezvanfard Mehrnaz , khaleghi Ali , Ghaderi Amirhossein , Noroozian Maryam , Aghamollaii Vajiheh , Tehranidust Mehdi
Published: February 2025

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) are synucleinopathy syndromes with similar symptom profiles that are distinguished clinically based on the arbitrary rule of the time of symptom onset. Identifying reliable electroencephalographic (EEG) biomarkers would provide a precise method for better diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of treatment response in these two types of dementia. From April 2015 to March 2021, the records of new referrals to a neurology clinic were retrospectively reviewed and 28 DLB(70.3% male) and 20 PDD (80.8% male) patients with appropriate EEG were selected for this study. Artifact-free 60-s EEG signals (21 channels) at rest with eyes closed were analyzed using EEGLAB, and regional spectral power ratios were extracted. Marked diffuse slowing was found in DLB patients compared to PDD patients in all regions in terms of decrease in alpha and increase in theta band. Although, these findings demean between groups after adjusting for MMSE scores, the significant difference still remained in terms of the mean relative alpha powers, particularly in the anterior and central regions. QEEG measures may have the potential to discriminate between these two syndromes. However, further prospective and longitudinal studies are required to improve the early differentiation of these dementia syndromes and to elucidate the underlying causes and pathogenesis and specific treatment.
Comparative assessment of 5-factor modified frailty index and American Society of Anesthesiologists classification for morbidity and mortality prediction in arthroplasty: A prospective observational study
Authors: Sarkar Soumya , Gautam Deepak , Anand Rahul Kumar , Goyal Devansh , Batra Sahil , Malhotra Rajesh , Khanna Puneet , Baidya Dalim Kumar
Published: February 2025

Background:

Identifying early predictors of postoperative complications is paramount in frail patients. While the American Society of Anaesthesiologists classification is subjective, the 5-factor modified frailty index is simpler and associated with promising results in predicting morbidity and mortality in various surgical specialities.

Methods:

This prospective observational study assessed the comparative utility of 5-factor modified frailty index and American Society of Anaesthesiologists classification in predicting intensive care unit admission and revision surgery in 220 patients following arthroplasty with standardised anaesthesia techniques under the same group of surgeons. The 5-factor modified frailty index and American Society of Anaesthesiologists class were assessed 1 day before surgery, and postoperatively, all the patients were followed up for 30 days.

Results:

American Society of Anaesthesiologists and 5-factor modified frailty index had a significant association with postoperative intensive care unit requirements (odds ratio = 7.5, 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 42.4 and odds ratio = 8.3, 95% confidence interval 1.6 to 17.6, respectively). Only the 5-factor modified frailty index was significantly associated (odds ratio = 5.3, 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 9.7) with revision surgery. Patients with the 5-factor modified frailty index value of 3 had the best predictive odds for postoperative intensive care unit admission (odds ratio = 73.6, 95% confidence interval 7.5 to 718.8) and revision of surgery, particularly during total hip replacement (odds ratio = 54, 95% confidence interval 3.3).

Conclusion:

The 5-factor modified frailty index exhibited a more robust predictive capacity for postoperative intensive care unit requirements and the likelihood of revision surgery, particularly a 5-factor modified frailty index score of 3 in total hip replacement procedures.
Heterogeneity and individualized therapy for eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Hua Lijuan , Xie Min
Published: February 2025

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), as a heterogeneous component of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, may be induced by a series of environmental and genetic factors, involved with a variety of immune cells and immune components, and presented with various clinical manifestations, with multiple organs and systems (respiratory, skin, heart, kidney, nerve, etc.) involved. The choice of glucocorticoid (GC) dosage and immunosuppressant in traditional treatment strategies varies greatly from individual to individual and is not universally applicable in all the EGPA phenotype spectrum, especially in relapsing or refractory diseases. With the understanding of the heterogeneity of EGPA, a variety of therapeutic approaches are emerging and improving the traditional treatment model. In this review, we summarized the heterogeneity of EGPA etiology and pathogenesis. Clinical and pathological manifestations of the same organ involved also show significant differences and there are even gender differences. Biological treatments that mainly target type 2 inflammatory pathways are widely used in clinical practice for remission induction and maintenance of EGPA. Targeted biological therapy has shown excellent performance in reducing GC dosage and controlling symptoms and recurrence. However, a large number of high-quality randomized controlled studies are still under research for relapsing or refractory EGPA with special organ involvement. We believe that EGPA has a highly heterogeneous phenotype spectrum, and the treatment patterns targeting key molecules in the pathogenesis are of great value for individual treatment of EGPA.
Itopride in functional dyspepsia: open-label, 1-year treatment follow-up of two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials
Authors: Broeders Bert , Tack Jan , Talley Nicholas J.
Published: February 2025

Background:

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is common but few efficacious therapies exist. Itopride, a prokinetic, acts via dopamine D2 receptor antagonism and acetylcholinesterase inhibition, and is now approved in Japan, Mexico, and Europe for FD. However, long-term efficacy and safety data have not been published.

Objective:

To evaluate the long-term safety and potential effectiveness of itopride.

Design:

A long-term open-label drug effectiveness study.

Methods:

Males and females, 18–65 years, with FD (Rome II) and the absence (by upper endoscopy) of any relevant structural disease were recruited. After the double-blind treatment phase, patients were treated in an open-label extension phase.

Results:

A total of 798 patients were included in these two open-label trials and received at least one dose of study medication; 551 patients (69.0%) completed 6 months of treatment, and 294 patients (36.8%) completed a 12-month period. Response rates based on the global physician assessment were 61.7%, 64.8%, 69.0 %, 69.1%, 70.1%, 73.1%, and 77.9% at weeks 8, 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, and 52, respectively. Compliance was above 95%. The safety and tolerability profiles were as expected, with the majority of adverse events being gastrointestinal. Prolactin elevations occurred in 3% of the cases but were not clinically significant. No ECG changes were identified.

Conclusion:

In this population, itopride, given for up to 12 months, was safe, and up to two-thirds appeared to maintain symptom benefit.

Trial registration:

NCT00110968 and NCT00112203.
Crosstalk between the gut microbiota and brain network topology in poststroke aphasia patients: perspectives from neuroimaging findings
Authors: Cao Yun , Huang Jiaqin , Zhang Danli , Ji Jianguang , Lei Xiaojing , Tan Zhongjian , Chang Jingling
Published: February 2025

Background:

Emerging evidence indicates that gut inflammatory and immune response play a key role in the pathophysiology of stroke and may become a promising therapeutic target. However, the specific role of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in poststroke aphasia (PSA) patients remains unclear.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships among the gut microbiota, neuroendocrine-immune network, brain network properties, and language function in patients with PSA.

Design:

This is a cross-sectional, observational, monocentric study.

Methods:

This study enrolled 15 PSA patients, 10 non-PSA patients, and 15 healthy controls (HCs). All subjects underwent stool microbiota analysis, blood inflammatory cytokines assessment, and brain-gut peptide examination. PSA patients and HCs underwent additional resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) brain scans. The rs-fMRI data were utilized to create whole-brain connectivity maps, and graph theory was employed to characterize the network topological properties. Analysis of variance and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used for comparisons among the three groups. Correlation analyses were subsequently conducted to explore relationships among factors showing significant group differences.

Results:

Compared with non-PSA patients and HCs, PSA patients displayed alterations in the gut microbiota composition, increased systemic inflammation, changes in brain-gut peptides, and had worse language performance. Graph theoretical analysis revealed that PSA patients exhibited small-world topology. Furthermore, nodal measures in brain network analysis showed activation of homologous speech areas in the right hemisphere, while the nodal properties of brain regions near the lesion in the left hemisphere decreased in patients with PSA compared with HCs.

Conclusion:

The present study revealed, for the first time, that an imbalance in gut microbiota was accompanied by the neuroendocrine-immune network disorder and abnormal changes in the brain network in PSA patients.
Resolution of bilateral temporal lobe epilepsy via minimally invasive stereoelectroencephalogram-guided asymmetric radiofrequency thermocoagulation: a case report
Authors: Liu Zhao , Luan Guoming , Wang Mengyang , Wang Jing , Teng Pengfei , Guan Yuguang , Wang Xiongfei , Li Tianfu , Cui Tianyi , Zhou Jian
Published: February 2025

Bilateral temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is a complex form of epilepsy, characterized by seizures originating from both temporal lobes. Its intricate nature presents significant challenges for both medical and surgical treatment, often necessitating a multidisciplinary approach. While resective surgery is generally unsuitable for bilateral TLE, neuromodulation offers more of a remission-focused approach, which better preserves neuropsychological function. In this study, we presented the case of a 45-year-old female with a 16-years history of recurrent seizures, diagnosed as drug-resistant bilateral TLE. After a comprehensive multidisciplinary epilepsy evaluation—encompassing detailed patient history, neurological examination, scalp audiovisual electroencephalogram monitoring, high-resolution brain magnetic resonance imaging, neuropsychological testing, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis—stereoelectroencephalogram (SEEG) confirmed the diagnosis. The patient subsequently underwent asymmetric radiofrequency thermocoagulation guided by SEEG results, targeting bilateral temporal lobes. Despite experiencing transient psychiatric symptoms postprocedure, she achieved seizure freedom and showed improved neuropsychological function over a 3-year follow-up period. This case demonstrates that, with thorough evaluation, seizure freedom is attainable in bilateral TLE patients, even when bilateral injury is present, without significant impairment to neuropsychological function.
Flirting with Autocracy in Indonesia: Jokowi's Majoritarianism and its Democratic Legacy
Authors: Mietzner Marcus
Published: February 2025

After ruling Indonesia for a decade, Joko Widodo (or popularly called "Jokowi") left the presidency in 2024 amid a heated debate over his democratic record. While his high approval ratings indicated support in the broader population, pro-democracy activists were scathing. Indeed, under his presidency, many democratic achievements of previous periods eroded. Yet democracy, however damaged, survived Jokowi's rule. This article adds to scholarship on this outcome of a harmed but enduring Indonesian democracy. It looks at how Jokowi's majoritarian thinking led him to undermine democracy when he felt he had the majority's support for his actions. Believing that democracy is doing what the majority wants, approves, or tolerates, he used polls to identify segments of democracy he could attack. At the same time, his majoritarianism also set him limits: if a majority was opposed, he retreated. This left Indonesia with a declining democracy, but one that did not cross over into fully authoritarian territory.
Biomarkers: New Advances in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Chen Yujia , Liu Xinan , Shengbu Meniga , Shi Qian , Jiaqiu Suolang , Lai Xianrong
Published: February 2025

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of uremia and clinical mortality, characterized by the progressive deterioration of kidney structure and function due to prolonged exposure to hyperglycemia. This condition often necessitates renal replacement therapy for patients with end-stage-renal-disease (ESRD). Consequently, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment of DN are crucial to mitigate disease progression, enhance patient outcomes, and maintain a good quality of life. Exploring relevant biomarkers for the early diagnosis of DN holds significant importance. In recent years, numerous researchers have identified various novel biomarkers associated with diabetic nephropathy, which are critical for predicting both the onset and progression of the disease. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the biomarkers related to DN.
Natural language processing for social science research: A comprehensive review
Authors: Hou Yuxin , Huang Junming
Published: February 2025

Text data has been a longstanding pivotal source for social science research, providing an informative lens across disciplines including sociology, psychology, and political science. Its salient role in research, combined with the difficulty in numerically digesting unstructured data in natural languages, has been inspiring growing demands for natural language processing techniques to extract meaningful insights from vast text data. Breakthrough advances in natural language processing emerge with the recent expansion in data availability and computational resources, calling for an up-to-date comprehensive review for those methodologies and applications in social science research. This article reviews natural language processing techniques, detailing the procedure from representing unstructured text data to distilling semantic information, with expertise-based algorithms and unsupervised/supervised machine-learning methods. We then introduce their typical applications in producing research outcomes for sociology and political science. Keeping in mind challenges in data representativeness, interpretability, and biases, this review encourages utilizing natural language processing technique responsibly and effectively in social science research to improve quantitative understandings of emerging text data.
Financial Inclusion, Mobile Money, and Tax Revenue in Africa
Authors: Ren Pengyu , Moumbark Toure , Appiah Ebenezer , Koudalo Yawovi M. A.
Published: February 2025

Financial inclusion (FI) could create vast sums of revenue in the African economy, generating numerous chances and difficulties for countries. As the population becomes more financially included, their income rises over time, increasing government tax contributions. This paper investigates whether tax revenue changes are related to the evolution of financial inclusion (FI) in Africa. The paper employed panel microdata from 36 African countries from 2011 to 2017. The data was sourced from the Global Findex database. The paper uses Fixed Effects (FE) and Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) strategies. The empirical results indicate that the relationship between financial inclusion (FI) and tax revenue is significant and positive, proving that more access to financial services defined by credit card ownership (% age 15+) increases government tax revenue. The result using different tax proxies and other FI proxies is robust. The paper also unearths that mobile money, an alternative for FI, decreases tax revenue. Governments should prioritize policies that promote access to basic banking services, such as savings and checking accounts and consider providing tax incentives for mobile money operators who facilitate transactions that contribute to formal economic activity.

JEL Classification: E62, H24, O16, G20
Are Patients Satisfied with Services from Super-specialty Hospitals? Evidence from India
Authors: Eapen Nisha , Thundiyil Nisha , Shenai Sheela , Dawood-Khan Heena Kausar , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: February 2025

This study aims to investigate the antecedents of patient satisfaction in healthcare organizations, particularly in the context of a developing nation, India. A conceptual model is developed to test the relationship between five types of healthcare services—doctor, nurse, supportive, auxiliary, and technical—on patient satisfaction. The moderating effect of administrative services in influencing patient satisfaction is also examined. In this cross-sectional research, a survey instrument was developed, and data were collected from 628 patients from super-specialty hospitals in Tiruchirappalli (from the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India). First, we checked the measurement properties of the survey instrument by using structural equation modeling with Lisrel software. We performed hierarchical regression to test the hypothesized relationships. The findings indicate that (a) doctor services, (b) nurse services, (c) supportive services, and (d) technical services are significantly and positively associated with patient satisfaction. The results also showed that administrative services moderate the relationship between (a) doctor services, (b) auxiliary services, and (c) technical services and patient satisfaction. This research underscores the importance of administrative services and provides valuable insights to administrators and policymakers about the antecedents to patient satisfaction. The conceptual model significantly contributes to advancing theory in the healthcare industry.
Personalized Advertising on Social Media: Is it Building Desired Customer Attitude?
Authors: Arora Nilesh , Rahman Azmawani Abd , Rana Meghna , Prashar Sanjeev , Palacios-Marques Daniel
Published: February 2025

A rising number of researchers have exhibited their efforts to analyse the effects of personalized advertisements on conventional media channels, web pages and mobile phones. Still, there exists a paucity of studies focusing on their influence on social networking sites. To navigate the crowded landscape of advertising, marketers employ personalized messaging tailored to individual consumers using their personal information. However, there remains a notable dearth of understanding regarding the impacts of personalized advertising within the realm of social networking sites. Filling this gap, the present study proposed and investigated a comprehensive model of personalized advertising, assessing its impact on eliciting favourable responses. Based on responses from 427 respondents, the findings reveal that perceived ad personalization positively influences perceived ad novelty, perceived relevance, advertising value and consumer brand engagement. However, the relationship between perceived personalization and perceived intrusiveness couldn’t be established. Furthermore, the role of privacy concern as moderating variable was noted to be significantly high on the relationship between perceived relevance and consumer attitude. The research provides significant contributions both in theoretical as well as practical aspects in social media marketing domain.
Does the Internet Provide Accurate Information About Foregoing Treatment for Common Musculoskeletal Conditions
Authors: Simpson Ruth , Gade Sruthi , Prabhu Anita , Sayegh George E , Ring David
Published: February 2025

We studied how websites address the consequences of leaving common musculoskeletal conditions untreated, two that have a benign, self-limiting course without treatment (de Quervain tendinopathy, lateral epicondylitis) and one that is expected to have progressive nerve deterioration without treatment (carpal tunnel syndrome). Using a common search engine, the first 120 websites addressing each diagnosis were rated for statements regarding disease progression and need for surgery without treatment. Most sites stated that disease would worsen without treatment: carpal tunnel syndrome (99%), lateral epicondylitis (91%), and de Quervain tendinopathy (72%). For each condition, approximately a third of the websites stated surgery might become necessary. The observation of inadequate distinction between conditions that deteriorate with treatment from those that resolve without treatment emphasizes the potential for harm by reinforcing common misconceptions such as “this is taking too long” or “this will not resolve without treatment” and by jeopardizing personal health agency. Producers of online medical information can add an item to their quality checklist that ensures that people are accurately informed about a choice to not seek treatment.
Does Communication Effectiveness Assessed by Communication Scholars Correlate with Patient Perception of Clinician Empathy?
Authors: Ponce Haley , Cordero Rafael , Tran Jacinta , Wellman Natalie , Ring David
Published: February 2025

In a prior study, communication scholar ratings of clinician communication effectiveness did not correlate with perceived clinician empathy, which is one aspect of patient experience. We repeated the analysis with a different rating of communication effectiveness to increase confidence that the lack of association was not due to an inadequate rating tool. Video-recorded visits (108) were rated by 3 trained observers using the Communication Quality Analysis with acceptable reliability. Patients completed measures of perceived clinician empathy, pain accommodation, health anxiety, and depression symptoms. Negative binomial regression analysis sought factors associated with perceived clinician empathy. Only accommodation of pain met the criterion for entry into a multivariable model for perceived clinician empathy (ρ = 0.17; P = .08). No factors were associated with perceived clinician empathy, including independently rated communication effectiveness. The consistent finding of no correlation between communication effectiveness and patient perception clinician empathy using a second rating tool does not diminish the importance of effective patient–clinician communication, but it does reinforce the need to identify suitable measures of modifiable factors associated with poor patient experience.
The Relationship Between the Emotional Intelligence and Clinical Decision-Making Among Nurses in Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Authors: Ayed Ahmad
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for managing stress, enhancing well-being, and improving clinical decision-making (CDM). In neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), where rapid decisions, emotional demands, and complex interactions are common, understanding how EI supports CDM is key to ensuring high-quality care and effective outcomes.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between EI and CDM among NICU nurses.

Methods

The study was cross-sectional in design and used a convenience sample of 178 NICU nurses. Data collection gathered by paper-based between 10 January and 10 April 2024, employing the “Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test” and the “CDM Scale.”

Results

The analysis revealed that the average EI score among participants was 151.9 ± 1.7 (range: 33–165, CI = 151.613–152.096), reflecting a high level of EI. High EI in the NICU context is characterized by nurses’ ability to manage their own stress effectively, empathize with families facing emotional distress, and maintain composure in high-pressure situations. Similarly, participants demonstrated a high level of CDM, with an average score of 179.6 ± 8.6 (range: 40–200, CI = 178.349–180.770). High CDM involves making accurate and timely clinical decisions, such as assessing neonatal conditions, prioritizing interventions, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to ensure optimal outcomes. A significant positive relationship was found between EI and CDM ( r = 0.53, p < .001, effect size = 0.8). Furthermore, EI was a significant predictor of enhanced accuracy, timeliness, and prioritization in CDM ( p < .001, CI = 1.991–3.337).

Conclusion

Nurses in NICUs demonstrated both high EI and strong CDM skills. A positive association between these two variables was evident.
The Relationship Between the Nurse Practice Environment and Perceived Patient-Centered Care in Intensive Care Units: Nursing Perspective
Authors: Bardhia Musab , Batran Ahmad , Ayed Ahmad , Ejheisheh Moath Abu , Alassoud Bahaa , Abu-Siam Ibraheem
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The intensive care unit is a distinct environment that emphasizes the importance of professional and skilled nursing practice.

Purpose

This study aims to assess the relationship between the nurse practice environment and perceived patient-centered care (PCC) among nurses in intensive care units (ICUs) in Palestinian southern West Bank hospitals.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive correlational design was employed for this study. The sample composed of 150 ICUs nurses. Data were collected using scales that assessed the practice environment and PCC.

Results

The practice environment scores ranged from 2.1 to 3.2, with a mean of 2.7 (±0.3), reflecting a moderately favorable environment. The PCC competency scores ranged from a mean 1.9 to 4.1, with of 3.4 (±0.5), indicating a generally high level of competency. A positive correlation was found between the practice environment and PCC competency ( r = .397, p = .001). Predictors of PCC included the practice environment ( B = .836, p = .001), age ( B = .027, p = .006), and educational level ( B = .154, p = .015).

Conclusion

The study found a moderately favorable practice environment and a generally high level of competency in PCC among nurses. Additionally, there were significant positive correlations between the practice environment and PCC competency. Age, educational level, and the practice environment were identified as predictors of PCC.
Effectiveness of Green Financing Activities and Performance Management on Banking Sector: An Empirical Study
Authors: Nagina Razia
Published: February 2025

Environmental issues affect all features of the world's financial system and have a force on how they conduct their daily business. All business sectors are experiencing an increase in ecological issues, but the banking industry is in a special position due to its ability to influence the growth of the economy as a whole. The concept of “green banking” has strained a set of focus recently in green finance publications as a result of the growing threat posed by global atmosphere transformation. Consequently, the primary goal of the investigation was to determine the influence of green financing activities and performance management on the Indian banking sector. The primary data was collected by a survey from a cross-sectional study of 302 personnel of chosen Indian banks. The empirical results showed that green credit, investment, and carbon finance substantially correlated with banks’ financial flow levels. Also, shows that green insurance and securities have a slight impact on the financial flow of banks. Consequently, substantial strategy implications and prospect potential investigative initiatives in the relevant field are highlighted.
Evidence on improvements in medical liability outcomes after the introduction of a communication-and-resolution program at a hospital in Tennessee
Authors: LeCraw Florence R , Montanera Daniel , Hetzler Dale , Jackson Joy P , Keys Janice C , Mroz Thomas A
Published: February 2025

Background

In 2009, the Erlanger Hospital System (EHS) in Tennessee introduced a Communications-and-Resolution Program (CRP) for addressing adverse medical outcomes. The program requires transparency from their medical staff whenever a patient suffers an unexpected outcome. Healthcare professionals often fear that such transparency could lead to worse liability outcomes, especially increased litigation and reporting to the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB).

Methods

Using a difference-in-difference model, we compared the liability outcomes of EHS to all healthcare entities in the state of Tennessee from 2005 to 2015. We reviewed charts after CRP was implemented to determine whether there was a written request for compensation or only a verbal request for compensation.

Results

After introducing the CRP, EHS defense costs fell by 58% ( p < 0.001) and the number of claims filed fell by 42% ( p = 0.01), compared to that in Tennessee. We found a statistically insignificant impact on compensation at EHS after CRP was implemented compared to compensation in Tennessee. We find weak evidence of relative reductions in Total Liability Costs ( p = 0.34; 95% CI = −81% to +31%). Under the CRP, 40% of paid compensations resulted from only a verbal request for money, not a written request.

Conclusion

Our results provide the first evidence using a comparison group to demonstrate that CRP can lower defense costs and claims filed in court while not significantly increasing other compensation or total liability costs. The large fraction of cases with only a verbal request for compensation suggests that there could be less reporting to the NPDB when a hospital implements CRP.