bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endovascular treatment of aneurysm remnants with the Contour Neurovascular System after previous treatment
Authors: Goertz Lukas , Radomi Alexandra , Forbrig Robert , Pflaeging Muriel , Kabbasch Christoph , Liebig Thomas
Published: August 2024

Objective

The Contour Neurovascular System (CNS) is a novel intrasaccular flow disrupting device with a semi-3D cup-like shape for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. This study investigates the potential and limitations of the CNS for embolization of aneurysm remnants after previous treatment.

Methods

Ten cases of aneurysm recurrence treatment with the CNS were analyzed from a single-center database. Technical success, procedural aspects, complications, and angiographic results were evaluated.

Results

The aneurysms (median width: 5.3 mm, median neck width: 3.8 mm) were located in the anterior communicating artery (4), basilar tip (3), internal carotid artery (1), middle cerebral artery (1), and superior cerebellar artery (1). The aneurysms were initially treated endovascularly (9) and by clipping (1). Retreatment failed in one case where the smallest available CNS proved to be too small and had to be removed. Adjunctive coiling was performed in two large remnants of partially thrombosed basilar tip aneurysms. There were no procedural complications or morbidity. At a median follow-up of nine months, 4/8 (50%) aneurysms were completely occluded, 2/8 (25%) had neck remnants, and 2/8 (25%) had aneurysm remnants. The two aneurysm remnants were retreated with coiling and stent-assisted coiling, respectively.

Conclusions

CNS treatment of aneurysm remnants may be feasible, especially for shallow, wide-necked aneurysm geometries. Further studies are needed to identify aneurysm subsets that benefit from CNS retreatment and to define mid- and long-term occlusion rates.
Diffuse scalp neurofibromas: Case series and Clinicoradiological characteristics of a rare vascular lesion
Authors: Bleakley Aaron , Betts Guy , Sainuddin Sajid , Hilditch Christopher
Published: August 2024

Diffuse neurofibroma of the head and neck are rare tumours which have unique clinical and radiological findings. Presurgical diagnosis is important as these lesions are usually highly vascular and pre-operative embolisation can reduce the risk of intra-operative haemorrhage. In this article we describe four cases; two which underwent pre-operative embolisation, which should aid the reader in successfully diagnosing this entity before biopsy/surgery.
Treatment of tumor-induced cerebral venous sinus stenosis: Technical note and review of the literature
Authors: White Timothy G , Chen Adrian , Dalal Sidd , Mehta Shyle H , Turpin Justin , Papadimitriou Kyriakos , Link Thomas , Patsalides Athos
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Tumors that invade or compress the venous sinuses have the potential to impair venous drainage. Rarely, this may be so severe as to induce intracranial hypertension. Other studies have previously described venous sinus stenting (VSS) for the treatment of these symptomatic lesions. In this report, we present our series of eight cases of VSS for symptomatic tumor-induced venous sinus stenosis and review the existing literature.

Cases

Eight patients with mostly intracranial tumors were found to have symptomatic venous sinus stenosis with the most common presenting symptom being elevated intracranial pressure. Six of the eight (75%) patients presented with papilledema on neuro-ophthalmological exam. The most affected locations were the transverse and sigmoid sinuses in four patients, followed by the superior sagittal sinus in three patients. All eight patients underwent VSS with no adverse events. In total, 6 out of 8 (75%) of patients had complete resolution of their symptoms, while the remaining patients experienced at least partial improvement.

Conclusion

Tumors that cause symptomatic venous sinus stenosis may be successfully managed with VSS to improve venous drainage. This may facilitate continued conservative management of meningiomas or allow for treatment with noninvasive means, such as stereotactic radiosurgery. Depending on the size of the target stenosis, balloon-mounted coronary stents may be a suitable option to treat these lesions.
Rather with than About - Reshaping Qualitative Empirical Research Methods in Times of Physical Distancing
Authors: Karrasch Leena , Schoppe Annalena , Wessels Anke , Schulte-Güstenberg Evke , Döring Martin , Ratter Beate
Published: August 2024

Face-to-face participatory research and interaction is at the heart of empirical social research. The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting physical distance restrictions had a significant impact on qualitative research. Instantly, conventional qualitative social science methods had to be adapted to ‘remote’ and digital modes of interaction. The focus of this article is to analyze how and why video-mediated formats such as online conference tools and online whiteboards affect personal interaction, cooperation, collaboration and data acquisition. In a retrospective process, we first inductively defined three characteristics of interaction, namely emplacement, communication and rapport. Conducting research about climate adaptation in coastal regions touches upon a sensitive and emotional topic. Emplacement is a decisive characteristic to understand how identities are built. The combination of verbal and non-verbal communication leads to contextualization, and building rapport is essential for trustful collaboration. To answer the question if video-mediated formats enable a replacement of face-to face formats, we deductively analyze the implications of video-mediated formats used in semi-structured interviews, qualitative social network analysis and focus groups on these characteristics. Our analysis reveals that video-mediated formats are sufficient to gather information but hamper crucial relational and trust-building processes. This implies that, by using video-mediated formats, the content level was hardly exceeded. Compared to face-to-face formats, non-verbal communication, emplacement and rapport are limited using digital formats, with problematic consequences for data generation and its understanding as well as for interaction in terms of trust, lasting relationships, knowledge generation and liability. In brief: Video-mediated formats hold the danger that research is done about participants and not with participants.
rs12411980 single-nucleotide polymorphism related to PRTFDC1 expression is significantly associated with phantom tooth pain
Authors: Araida Jun , Ohka Seii , Soeda Moe , Nishizawa Daisuke , Hasegawa Junko , Nakayama Kyoko , Ebata Yuko , Ogai Yasukazu , Fukuda Ken-ichi , Ikeda Kazutaka
Published: August 2024

Phantom tooth pain (PTP) is one type of non-odontogenic neuropathic toothache, which rarely occurs after appropriate pulpectomy or tooth extraction. The cause of PTP is unknown. We investigated pain-related genetic factors that are associated with PTP. Four pain-associated genes, including G protein-coupled receptor 158 ( GPR158) and phosphoribosyl transferase domain containing 1 ( PRTFDC1), are adjacent to each other on the human genome. Some of these four genes or their genomic region may be related to PTP. We statistically analyzed associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genomic region and PTP in patients with PTP (PTP group), other orofacial pain (OFP group), and healthy control subjects. We then performed a database search of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs). For the seven SNPs that were significantly associated with PTP even after Bonferroni correction, we focused on the rs12411980 tag SNP ( p = 9.42 × 10−4). Statistical analyses of the PTP group and healthy subject groups (group labels: NOC and TD) revealed that the rate of the GG genotype of the rs12411980 SNP was significantly higher in the PTP group than in the healthy subject groups (PTP group vs. NOC group: p = 2.92 × 10−4, PTP group vs. TD group: p = 5.46 × 10−4; percentage of GG: 30% in PTP group, 12% in NOC group, 11% in TD group). These results suggest that the GG genotype of the rs12411980 SNP is more susceptible to PTP. The rs2765697 SNP that is in strong linkage disequilibrium with the rs12411980 SNP is an eQTL that is associated with higher PRTFDC1 expression in the minor allele homozygotes in the healthy subject groups of the rs2765697 SNP. Thus, PRTFDC1 expression similarly increases in the minor allele homozygotes (GG genotype) in the healthy subject groups of the rs12411980 SNP, which would lead to greater susceptibility to PTP.
The analgesic effects of botulinum neurotoxin by modulating pain-related receptors; A literature review
Authors: Hosseindoost Saereh , Askari Rad Maziyar , Inanloo Seyed Hassan , Rahimi Mojgan , Dehghan Samaneh , Orandi Amirhossein , Dehpour Ahmad Reza , Majedi Hossein
Published: August 2024

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), produced by Clostridium botulinum, have been used for the treatment of various central and peripheral neurological conditions. Recent studies have suggested that BoNTs may also have a beneficial effect on pain conditions. It has been hypothesized that one of the mechanisms underlying BoNTs' analgesic effects is the inhibition of pain-related receptors' transmission to the neuronal cell membrane. BoNT application disrupts the integration of synaptic vesicles with the cellular membrane, which is responsible for transporting various receptors, including pain receptors such as TRP channels, calcium channels, sodium channels, purinergic receptors, neurokinin-1 receptors, and glutamate receptors. BoNT also modulates the opioidergic system and the GABAergic system, both of which are involved in the pain process. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these effects can provide valuable insights for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for pain management. This review aims to summarize the experimental evidence of the analgesic functions of BoNTs and discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which they can act on pain conditions by inhibiting the transmission of pain-related receptors.
Multidimensional performance characteristics of talented youth judoka: Dynamic balance and coping skills relate to international competitive performance
Authors: Schoof Suzan , Krabben Kai , Lojanica Maria B. , Pion Johan , Elferink-Gemser Marije T.
Published: August 2024

Understanding of the multidimensional performance characteristics (MPCs) that underlie performance and distinguish athletes of varying performance levels are key for talent development programs. However, in the Olympic combat sport of judo, including MPCs in talent development research is still a recent approach. Hence, little is known about the MPCs of talented youth judoka. Therefore, this study aimed to determine differences in MPCs of talented youth (U18) judoka with varying levels of success in international competition, specified by sex and corrected for body weight. Fifty-two international level judoka (males: n = 28, age: 16.7 ± 0.9 and females: n = 24, age: 16.3 ± 0.9) participated. Multiple linear regressions were performed with performance level as the dependent variable. Performance level was defined as the win rate at international competitions in one competitive season. Anthropometrical (e.g., body height), physiological (e.g., dynamic balance), and psychological (e.g., coping skills) characteristics were used as independent variables. Results showed that win rate of females positively relates to dynamic balance and coping with adversity, and negatively relates to goal setting and mental preparation ( R2 = .611, p < .001). Peaking under pressure positively relates to the win rate of males ( R2 = .152, p < .05). The extent to which MPCs explain competition performance differs between sexes. However, for both sexes, coping skills seem to be important. Therefore, it is recommended that psychological characteristics are integrated in talent programs of youth judoka next to the judo-specific, physiological and/or technical-tactical trainings whilst taking in consideration the individual differences.
A pilot study of monocytes in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis: Correlation with disease activity
Authors: Taha Sara I , Mohamed Hala Ghareeb , Mamdouh Rasha , Kamal Nada E , Khater Shaimaa Sayed
Published: August 2024

Background: Numerous immune cells are involved in developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Monocytes are believed to be the first to enter the brain and initiate inflammation. The role of monocyte subtypes in MS needs to be better understood. Objective: The current study aims to investigate the presence of different subsets of monocytes in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) Egyptian patients and their correlation with disease activity. Methods: This study included 44 RRMS patients (22 patients in relapse, 22 patients in remission), diagnosed according to the 2017 MacDonalds criteria, and 44 matched healthy controls. Personal and medical histories were taken from the patients, and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was used to evaluate the degree of impairment. Characterization of peripheral blood monocyte subsets was done by flow cytometry for all participants. Results: The percentage of classical, intermediate, and non-classical monocyte subsets showed a significant increase in RRMS patients than controls with p-values of 0.029, 0.049, and 0.043, respectively. In the RRMS patients, there were no statistically significant correlations ( p-values >0.05) between the EDSS scores, the duration of disease, and number of relapses in the past year and the percentages of the various monocyte subsets. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the percentage of each monocyte subset between RRMS patients in remission and those experiencing a relapse ( p-values >0.05). However, patients with evidence of activity in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) had a significantly high percentage of non-classical monocytes with a p-value of 0.002. Conclusion: In RRMS patients, the three monocyte subsets (classical, non-classical and intermediate) increase significantly regardless of the disease activity. This increase denotes the vital role of monocytes and innate immunity in MS pathology, especially the non-classical monocyte subset. These findings suggest that monocytes might be a promising MS therapeutic target.
Living with inflammatory bowel disease in Australia: quality of life and the impact of support networks
Authors: Baker Kelly A. , Marino Frank E. , Hartmann Tegan E.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Factors that influence quality of life (QoL) are used to determine the burden of disease, risk factors, and monitor management.

Objectives:

This study investigated the Australian inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) population and factors that affect QoL.

Design:

A national online survey was available to Australian IBD patients. Respondents were required to have a medical diagnosis of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, over 18 years of age, and receive healthcare in Australia.

Methods:

A mixture of validated questionnaires and additional questions were utilized to assess disease activity, QoL, and depression, anxiety and stress levels as well as demographic information. A variety of nonparametric statistical tests were used to explore relationships and compare groups.

Results:

A total of 825 participated in the survey across Australia with a 75% completion rate. The median Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis Questionnaire-8 (CUCQ-8) score was 37 with higher scores indicating worse QoL; those who have access to local support networks ( Md = 36) had significantly lower CUCQ-8 scores compared to those who do not ( Md = 44), U = 38,178, p = 0.014, r = 0.1. Similarly, those who feel adequately supported by local networks ( Md = 35) had significantly lower CUCU-8 compared to those who do not ( Md = 48), U = 30,772, p < 0.001, r = 0.21. Furthermore, perceived adequate support was associated with higher levels of QoL and lower levels of psychological stress. Heightened levels of psychological stress were associated with reduced QoL and increased disease activity.

Conclusion:

Support networks are essential to improve QoL. Local support networks may reduce psychological stress, improve disease activity, and enhance QoL. Management strategies are inadequate to minimize the decline in QoL when disease activity is heightened; therefore, the integration of adequate local support networks may be beneficial to assist management for Australians with IBD.
Responsiveness and clinically important differences of the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) Index in surgical and non-surgical treatment groups with different follow-up periods: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Farzad Maryam , Jafari Hassan , MacDermid Joy C , Ataeian Milad
Published: August 2024

Background

This study reviews and meta-analyzes the responsiveness and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff (WORC) Index for various patient populations and treatment durations.

Methods

A comprehensive search in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL identified studies on the responsiveness or MCID of the WORC in shoulder conditions. Two authors independently screened articles. Study quality was appraised using COSMIN and GRADE guidelines. Responsiveness was evaluated using anchor-based MCID and distribution-based standardized mean differences (SMDs) computed with Hedges’ g. A random-effect model addressed study variability, and heterogeneity was assessed with the chi-squared test and I² statistic.

Results

The 12 studies yielded high-quality evidence supporting the WORC's responsiveness. A meta-analysis of 1326 observations revealed a significant overall effect size (SMD) of 0.91 (95% CI: 0.56 to 1.26; p < 0.0001), with high heterogeneity ( I² = 91.2%). Subgroup analyses showed larger effect sizes for long-term follow-ups (SMD = 1.28) and surgical treatments (SMD = 1.14). The average MCID was 17 for conservative treatments within six months, 26 for surgical procedures, and 29 for follow-ups over six months.

Conclusion

The WORC measures improvements in rotator cuff conditions, with varying MCID values for different treatments and durations.
Perioperative complications and readmission rates following total shoulder arthroplasty in patients aged 90 and older
Authors: Tobin Jacqueline G , Jacobson Skye , Vallabhaneni Nikhil , Vanderham Lawrence C , Guareschi Alexander S , Eichinger Josef K , Friedman Richard J
Published: August 2024

Background

Previous literature has cited age as an independent risk factor for surgical outcomes following total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). The purpose of this study is to determine the short-term outcomes of nonagenarians following primary TSA and compare them to younger cohorts.

Methods

The Nationwide Readmission Database (NRD) was queried from 2010 to 2020 to identify patients who underwent a primary reverse or anatomic TSA (rTSA or aTSA). Cohorts were defined by those aged 70–74 (septuagenarians), 80–84 (octogenarians), or 90 and over (nonagenarians). The septuagenarians and octogenarians were matched 1:1 to the nonagenarians by the Charlson–Deyo Comorbidity Index (CCI), year of procedure, and sex. Length of hospital stay, readmission rate, and postoperative outcomes were collected.

Results

Length of hospital stay, in-hospital death, 180-day mortality, 180-day readmission, and rate of medical complications were highest in the nonagenarians. Rates of periprosthetic fracture were highest in the nonagenarians. The number of total surgical complications was not significantly different between cohorts. The rate of revision within 180 days and discharge to rehabilitation facility was not significantly different between the three groups.

Discussion

The nonagenarians are at an increased risk of medical complications, longer hospital stays, periprosthetic fractures, and death following TSA. Otherwise, nonagenarians have similar rates of total surgical complications to the septuagenarians and octogenarians.
Pembrolizumab and radiation therapy for multifocal myxofibrosarcoma of the scalp: a case report
Authors: Grant Christopher Ryan , Arter Zhaohui , Smith Janellen , Seyedin Steven N. , Nourbakhsh Mahra , Lee Bonnie , Creadore Andrew , Mar Nataliya
Published: August 2024

Myxofibrosarcoma is one of the most common types of soft tissue sarcomas occurring in the lower limbs of male older adults. Mainstay treatment is surgical intervention with chemoradiotherapy with a combination of doxorubicin and ifosfamide with brachytherapy if advanced or metastatic. There are no guidelines on the combination of immunotherapy with radiation therapy for myxofibrosarcoma. We report the first documented case of unresectable multifocal myxofibrosarcoma that was treated with pembrolizumab and radiation therapy for first-line therapy with a significant response. We also highlight genomic markers and immune radiation priming therapy, forecasting favorable response in treatment with pembrolizumab.
Pan-Canadian consensus recommendations for GIST management in high- and low-throughput centres across Canada
Authors: Beecroft J. Robert , Brar Savtaj , Feng Xiaolan , Hamilton Trevor , Han-Lee Cheng , Henning Jan-Willem , Josephy P. David , Khalili Korosh , Ko Yoo-Joung , Lemieux Christopher , Liu David M. , MacDonald D. Blair , Noujaim Jonathan , Pollett Aaron , Salawu Abdulazeez , Saleh Ramy , Smrke Alannah , Warren Blair E. , Zbuk Kevin , Razak Albiruni Abdul
Published: August 2024

Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) are mesenchymal tumours that originate from the interstitial cells of Cajal. GISTs are mainly driven by gain-of-function mutations in receptor tyrosine kinase or platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha. Surgical resection is the only curative treatment for localized tumours and all currently approved medical GIST treatments are based on orally available tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Recent discoveries in the molecular and clinical features of GISTs have greatly impacted GIST management. Due to the provincially rather than nationally administered Canadian healthcare system, there have been inconsistencies in the treatment of GISTs across the country. Therefore, guidance on the latest knowledge, clinical management and treatment of GIST is needed to standardize the approach to GIST management nationwide. To establish pan-Canadian guidance, provide up-to-date data and harmonize the clinical practice of GIST management in high- and low-throughput centres across Canada; a panel of 20 physicians with extensive clinical experience in GIST management reviewed relevant literature. This included radiologists, pathologists, interventional radiologists, surgeons and medical oncologists across Canada. The structured literature focused on seven key domains: molecular profiling, radiological techniques/reporting, targeted localized therapy, intricacies of systemic treatments, emerging tests, multidisciplinary care and patient advocacy. This literature review, along with clinical expertise and opinion, was used to develop this concise and clinically relevant consensus paper to harmonize the knowledge and clinical practice on GIST management across Canada. The content presented here will help guide healthcare providers, especially in Canada, in terms of approaching and managing GIST.
Mentoring in Aotearoa New Zealand early childhood education
Authors: McCosh Tessa Anne , Clarke Linda Rose
Published: August 2024

Mentoring is highly valued to support teachers’ professional growth. Yet little is known about mentors’ experiences and roles in supporting early childhood education teachers in Aotearoa New Zealand. This study sought to fill that gap by asking mentors how they foster teachers’ capacity, as well as the barriers and enablers they have experienced as mentors. Utilising an online survey, data were gathered from 138 participants who had diverse experiences of mentoring across the career span and came from a variety of early childhood organisations in Aotearoa New Zealand. This article reports on how mentors view their roles, the specific strategies and practices they use, and the challenges they face. While it is recognised that mentoring is a complex, skilled and rewarding role, many mentors may not have access to professional development and mentorship to support them in their roles as mentors.
Partisan Dehumanization in Brazil's Asymmetrically Polarized Party System
Authors: Samuels David J. , Belarmino Karine
Published: August 2024

An ugly manifestation of polarization is partisan dehumanization, a form of moral disengagement from and support for aggressive or even violent treatment of one's opponents. Brazil offers a useful case to explore the relative importance of in-group sympathy or out-group antipathy as sources of dehumanization, since its voters are polarized between supporters and opponents of a single party, the Partido dos Trabalhadores (Workers’ Party, PT). Using survey-experimental data from a convenience sample, we show that partisan dehumanization can stem from either in- or out-group bias. Both PT partisans, known as petistas, and PT opponents, known as antipetistas, dehumanize their opponents. For petistas, in-group favoritism drives dehumanization of their opponents. However, since the only thing that unites all antipetistas is their dislike for the PT, out-group animosity is the critical factor driving their dehumanization of petistas. We also find that dehumanization is associated with the intensity of positive or negative partisanship and perceptions of social and moral distance between opponents. However, perceptions of out-group threat and Social Dominance Orientation do not enhance dehumanization. Our findings contribute to understanding the roots of partisan dehumanization and polarization in Latin America and beyond.
The Limits of Local Power: Business, Political Conflict, and Coastal Reclamation Projects in Makassar, Indonesia
Authors: Sari Lila
Published: August 2024

Since the fall of Indonesia's Suharto regime in 1998, politics in Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province, has been characterised by a competitive form of elite domination. Major political families, most with roots in the ruling elite of the Suharto period, have captured power and used it to further their economic interests while engaging in bitter intra-elite feuds. Through studies of three large-scale coastal reclamation projects, the study reveals patterns of interaction between political elites and business groups in the province. Successive mayors and governors have sponsored rival reclamation projects, directing tenders toward favoured business partners and sidelining allies of rivals. Yet these projects also reveal the limits of power of local politicians: while they support favoured local partners, none has been able to sideline large national conglomerates involved in these projects. Instead, big investors are more or less immune to local political change.
Multilingual Tallinn: People and Languages in the Urban Space
Authors: Fedorova Kapitolina , Tšuikina Natalia
Published: August 2024

Multilingualism in post-Soviet countries where as a result of the Soviet time migration and Russification, Russian speakers still constitute a significant part of population, presents an interesting case for analysis. Estonia, being officially a monolingual country with quite strict language policy, is extremely linguistically diverse in terms of actual everyday communication, with both Russian and English playing a significant role. Moreover, as Estonia attracts many foreign visitors, expats, and refugees, other languages, including Ukrainian, also become more and more noticeable in both visual and acoustic form in public spaces. However, spatial distribution of different languages in urban landscapes varies significantly, and by analyzing it one can reveal not only the patterns of language use but also power relations between different linguistic, ethnic, and social groups. The paper reports on preliminary results of a study conducted in Tallinn in 2022–2023 and focused on collecting and comparing data on both linguistic landscapes and soundscapes in several locations in the city. The study shows a mismatch between visual linguistic representation and actual linguistic diversity and tries to contemplate it in a broader historical context of multilingualism and language contacts in the Baltic region.
Can Operating Room Design Make Orthopedic Surgeries Shorter, Safer, and More Efficient?: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Quan Xiaobo
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

The study aimed to fill the knowledge gap about how operating room (OR) design could reduce orthopedic surgery duration and contribute to surgical care safety and efficiency.

Background:

Long surgery duration may lead to delays and cancellations of surgeries, deteriorated patient experiences, postoperative complications, and waste of healthcare resources. The OR physical environment may contribute to the reduction of surgery duration by minimizing workflow disruptions and personnel movements during surgeries.

Methods:

Unobtrusive observations were conducted of 70 unilateral total knee or hip replacement surgeries in two differently designed ORs at a community hospital in the United States. A set of computer-based forms adapted from recent research was used to measure the surgery duration, environment-related disruptions, and ambulatory movements involving circulators. Potential confounding factors like surgery type were controlled in statistical analyses.

Results:

Significantly shorter surgery durations were recorded in the larger OR with more clearances on both sides of the operating table, a wider door located on the sidewall, more cabinets, and more clearance between the circulator workstation and the sterile field ( p =.019). The better-designed OR was also associated with less frequent disruptions and fewer movements per case ( p < .001). Significant correlations existed between surgery duration, the number of disruptions, and the number of movements ( rs = .576–.700, ps < .001).

Conclusions:

The study demonstrated the important role of OR physical environment in supporting the safe and efficient delivery of surgical care, which should be further enhanced through research and design innovations.
The Influence of Hotel Characteristics on Debt Servicing and Default in the U.S. Lodging Sector
Authors: Singh Amrik , O’Neill John W. , Liu Peng
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the influence of hotel attributes and characteristics on debt servicing and default in the U.S. hotel sector. Employing a unique dataset that we derived comprising more than 2,000 hotels from five recent years, this study provides empirical evidence of significant effect of hotel characteristics on debt servicing performance and default. Debt service and debt yield performance is significantly and negatively associated with the likelihood of default. Hotel default probability also varies significantly across various hotel characteristics, including service type, location, class, size, and age. In particular, the results show interstate hotels by location, economy and midscale hotels by class, smaller hotels by size, newer hotels by age, and hotels that are components of portfolios with significantly lower probability of default. Analysis by hotel service type provides empirical support for the main findings. Theoretical and practical implications provide owners and investors with relevant information for hotel investment decisions.
Past, Present, Future and an Entanglement of Becoming
Authors: Fitzpatrick Esther
Published: August 2024

The whakapapa (ancestry) of autoethnography Haunts our becoming.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Promotes Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Expression Contributes to Development of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Liao Yun , Zhang Xiwen , Tao Shuang , Wang Shiqi , Huang Qinmiao , Tang Ping , Tang Aifa , Yang Pingchang , Yang Gui
Published: August 2024

Background

The Th2 cell polarization is a crucial factor in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. The underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Telomerase has an immune-regulating ability. The aim of this study is to elucidate the association between telomerase and Th2 cell polarization in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR).

Methods

CD4+ T cells were isolated from blood samples collected from AR patients and healthy control subjects. RNA sequencing was employed to analyze RNA samples extracted from CD4+ T cells. An AR mouse model was established using the ovalbumin-alum protocol.

Results

High telomerase gene activity and high endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress status were observed in CD4+ T-cells in patients with AR. Positive correlation between the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene expression in CD4+ T cells and AR response in patients with AR. TERT facilitated the degradation of Foxp3 proteins in CD4+ T cells, resulting in the polarization of Th2 cells. Sensitization with the ovalbumin-alum protocol enhanced the Tert expression in CD4+ T cells by exacerbating ER stress. Conditional inhibition of the Tert or eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2-α (Eif2a) expression in CD4+ T cells effectively attenuated experimental AR in mice.

Conclusions

Elevated amounts of telomerase in CD4+ T cells were found in CD4+ T cells of subjects with AR. Telomerase promoted Th2 cell polarization by inducing Foxp3 protein degradation and promotes GATA3 activation. Inhibition of TERT or eIF2a alleviated experimental AR.
More Teams, More Meetings? Toward an Understanding of Multiteam System Meeting Design, Facilitation, and Effectiveness
Authors: Wolf Annamaria V. , Hendrick Katelyn N. , Kramer William S. , Shuffler Marissa L.
Published: August 2024

The growing literature on meeting science has begun to offer numerous best practices for designing and facilitating team meetings. However, similar considerations are limited for meetings that take place within multiteam systems (MTSs). These MTSs require meetings to occur both within and between teams to achieve both proximal and distal goals. Accordingly, the unique attributes of and challenges faced by MTSs may impact meeting inputs, processes, outcomes, and performance in these complex systems. In this review, we integrate core theoretical and empirical evidence from the meeting science, teaming, and MTS literature to inform the development of key propositions. Specifically, these propositions address how the design, facilitation, and effectiveness of MTS meetings may be influenced and impacted by core linkage attributes of MTSs. We conclude with a discussion of theoretical and practical implications as well as of future avenues for research that further explores and refines our understanding of meetings in MTS contexts.
Marketing sonified fragrance: Designing soundscapes for scent
Authors: Spence Charles , Di Stefano Nicola , Reinoso-Carvalho Felipe , Velasco Carlos
Published: August 2024

Auditory branding is undoubtedly becoming more important across a range of sectors. One area, in particular, that has recently seen significant growth concerns the introduction of music and soundscapes that have been specifically designed to match a particular scent (what one might think of as “audio scents” or “sonic scents”). This represents an exciting new approach to the sensory marketing of fragrance and for industries with strategic sensory goals, such as cosmetics. Crucially, techniques such as the semantic differential technique, as well as the emerging literature on crossmodal correspondences, offer both a mechanistic understanding of, and a practical framework for, those wishing to rigorously align the connotative meaning and conceptual/emotional/sensory associations of sound and scent. These developments have enabled those working in the creative industries to start moving beyond previously popular approaches to matching, or translating between the senses, that were traditionally often based on the idiosyncratic phenomenon of synaesthesia, toward a more scientific approach while nevertheless still enabling/requiring a healthy dose of artistic inspiration. In this narrative historical review, we highlight the various approaches to the systematic matching of sound with scent and review the various marketing activations that have appeared in this space recently.
An apparent motion color illusion
Authors: van Lier Rob , Hazenberg Simon J. , Ekroll Vebjørn
Published: August 2024

We introduce a new illusory color phenomenon. The illusion is evoked by two alternating displays comprising various colored disks. Although the colors in the alternating displays are the same, the color appearance of the two displays are quite different. We suggest that apparent motion of the disks modulates the color percepts.
Bioengineered cartilaginous grafts for repairing segmental mandibular defects
Authors: Al Maruf D S Abdullah , Xin Hai , Cheng Kai , Garcia Alejandro Garcia , Mohseni-Dargah Masoud , Ben-Sefer Eitan , Tomaskovic-Crook Eva , Crook Jeremy Micah , Clark Jonathan Robert
Published: August 2024

Reconstructing critical-sized craniofacial bone defects is a global healthcare challenge. Current methods, like autologous bone transplantation, face limitations. Bone tissue engineering offers an alternative to autologous bone, with traditional approaches focusing on stimulating osteogenesis via the intramembranous ossification (IMO) pathway. However, IMO falls short in addressing larger defects, particularly in clinical scenarios where there is insufficient vascularisation. This review explores redirecting bone regeneration through endochondral ossification (ECO), a process observed in long bone healing stimulated by hypoxic conditions. Despite its promise, gaps exist in applying ECO to bone tissue engineering experiments, requiring the elucidation of key aspects such as cell sources, biomaterials and priming protocols. This review discusses various scaffold biomaterials and cellular sources for chondrogenesis and hypertrophic chondrocyte priming, mirroring the ECO pathway. The review highlights challenges in current endochondral priming and proposes alternative approaches. Emphasis is on segmental mandibular defect repair, offering insights for future research and clinical application. This concise review aims to advance bone tissue engineering by addressing critical gaps in ECO strategies.
Sex differences in comorbidities associated with exclusion from thrombolytic therapy in ischemic stroke patients with heart failure: A retrospective data analysis
Authors: Joffe Jonah , Stepp Ryan , Faulkner Madisen , Imeh-Nathaniel Samuel , Imeh-Nathaniel Adebobola , Nathaniel Thomas I.
Published: August 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to identify baseline risk factors in AIS-HF inclusion and exclusion from rtPA therapy and determine whether the baseline factors are different in male and female patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective data analysis of data from the PRISMA Health stroke registry. Logistic regression models were developed to generate odds ratios (OR) that predict risk factors that are associated with male and female AIS-HF patients excluded from rtPA.

Results

A total of 590 AIS-HF were identified. Of this, 76.78% were females while 23.22 were males. Male AIS-HF patients with carotid artery stenosis (CAS) (OR = 0.279, 95% CI, 0.083–0.944, P = 014), were more likely to be excluded from rtPA, while those with higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (OR = 1.096, 95% CI, 0.907–3.526, P < 0.001), were more likely to be included for rtPA. Female AIS-HF patients with chronic renal disease (CRD) (OR = 0.159, 95% CI, 0.050–0.503, P = 002), were likely to be excluded from rtPA therapy, while those on antidepressant use (OR = 5.322, 95%, CI 1.488–19.03, P < 0.001), that presents with higher NIHSS scores (OR = 3.336, CI 1.699–6.950, P < 0.001) were more likely to be included for rtPA.

Conclusions

Our results reveal that male AIS-HF patients with a history of CAS were more likely to be excluded from rtPA therapy, whereas, females who present with CRD were more likely to be excluded from rtPA. These findings indicate the need for the development of management strategies to improve the use of rtPA for male and female AIS-HF patients.
Feline dystrophin-deficient muscular dystrophy misdiagnosed as Toxoplasma myositis
Authors: Reynolds Rachel M , Marks Stanley L , Guo Ling T , Shelton G. Diane , Graham Karina J
Published: August 2024

Case summary

A 6-month-old male entire domestic shorthair cat presented for presumptive Toxoplasma myopathy that was non-responsive to antiprotozoal therapy. Clinical features included marked macroglossia, dysphagia, regurgitation, truncal muscle hypertrophy, pelvic limb gait abnormalities and megaoesophagus. Relevant diagnostics included serial creatine kinase activity, cardiac troponin I, fluoroscopic swallow study and routine muscle histopathology. Ultimately, post-mortem histopathology with immunostaining demonstrated markedly decreased or absent staining for the rod and carboxy terminus of dystrophin, confirming a dystrophin-deficient muscular dystrophy (MD). The misdiagnosis of toxoplasmosis was based on an increased IgG titre and muscle histopathology submitted to a local laboratory. Treatment for megaoesophagus included vertical feeding of wet food only, sildenafil and omeprazole. Dysphagia and regurgitation improved moderately. Presumptive hyperaesthesia and muscle pain were managed with anti-inflammatory doses of prednisolone. The patient was ultimately euthanased as a result of progressive MD signs and uraemia at 2 years of age.

Relevance and novel information

This case report highlights the collective clinical features of MD, as they could be considered pathognomonic for this rare condition and must be differentiated from other myopathies via specific immunostaining of muscle biopsies. This is crucial to obtain a correct and early diagnosis, allowing instigation of potentially valuable treatments. Megaoesophagus is an inconsistent feature in feline MD in addition to the more commonly observed oropharyngeal dysphagia. Management with a canned diet, sildenafil, omeprazole and upright feeding was beneficial with moderate improvement in the frequency of regurgitation. Prednisolone was thought to minimise the presumptive myalgia.
Surgical management of a lumbar far lateral intervertebral disc extrusion in a cat
Authors: Fefer Gilad , Bynum Lauren , Early Peter
Published: August 2024

Case summary

A 9-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat was presented with a 2-week history of acute, progressive left pelvic limb lameness. Gait evaluation revealed a grade 3/5 left pelvic limb lameness with no apparent orthopedic cause for the lameness based on orthopedic examination or radiographs. The neurological examination was otherwise normal. MRI revealed a left-sided L6–7 far lateral intervertebral disc extrusion with possible secondary neuritis of the L6 spinal nerve. A left-sided L6–7 foraminotomy was performed to remove the extruded disc material and provide additional space for the significantly enlarged nerve root. An L6–7 fenestration was also performed. The patient made an excellent recovery with near-complete resolution of lameness at 26 days postoperatively.

Relevance and novel information

This case report contributes to the growing body of literature on lateral intervertebral disc extrusion as an etiological factor in pelvic limb lameness in cats, particularly when neurological deficits are absent. Furthermore, the case report highlights the diagnostic utility of cross-sectional advanced imaging for cats with lameness for which an orthopedic or radiographic cause cannot be identified. Finally, this case underscores the efficacy of surgical intervention as a treatment option for cats with lumbar far lateral intervertebral disc extrusions that do not improve with medical management alone. This finding could have implications for future surgical approaches in cats with similar findings.
Case management in a web-based cognitive and motor treatment for patients with mild cognitive impairment: A study protocol of a multicentric, randomized, two parallel arms controlled clinical trial
Authors: Gallucci Alessia , Tuena Cosimo , Bruni Francesca , Fedecostante Massimiliano , Rossi Lorena , Greco Antonio , Tettamanti Mauro , Lattanzio Fabrizia , Stramba-Badiale Marco , Giunco Fabrizio , Trimarchi Pietro Davide
Published: August 2024

Objective

The growing attention towards the psychosocial characteristics of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a possible prodromal stage of dementia, contributed to the spread of patient-centered approaches to the care of age-related cognitive decline. Within these new care models, including Case-Management approaches, technology-based treatments showed to improve quality of life and psychosocial functioning of people with MCI. However, studies testing technologies to treat functional well-being of MCI patients are still few. Moreover, whether Case Manager supervised or unsupervised technological interventions lead to comparable results is so far unexplored. This study protocol aims to test the superiority of a 1-year physical and cognitive training treatment supervised by a Case Manager in improving the quality of life, functional decline, treatment adherence, cognitive impairment of MCI patients and the mental well-being of informal caregivers compared to the same yet unsupervised treatment.

Methods

In a multicentric, randomized, two parallel arms controlled clinical trial MCI patients ≥65 year-old will be randomized to receive a technology-based treatment either supervised or unsupervised by a Case Manager. Regardless of the study group, patients will perform cognitive and motor exercises with the monitoring of a specialist only during the first 6 weeks of intervention. Three and two assessment points will be considered during the intervention and follow-up period, respectively. The quality of life will be measured as primary outcome at 6 months after baseline.

Conclusions

The results of this study will provide an evidence base to use Case Management as an adjuvant approach for technology-based treatments of psychosocial characteristics of MCI.
“How it is said”: Analyses of WhatsApp communications in a postpartum depression preventive intervention
Authors: Fernández Olga , Pérez J Carola , Alamo Nicolle , Fernandez Sofia , Franco Pamela , Coo Soledad , García M Ignacia , Aravena Marcela
Published: August 2024

Introduction: “m-What Were We Thinking” (m-WWWT) is an m-health, intervention oriented to prevent symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety in first-time mothers. Mothers receive psychoeducation and socioemotional support through written communication via text-messaging (i.e., WhatsApp) with the program counsellor. Although the use of m-health interventions targeting mental health has increased, the form/style of communication through text messages between participants and program counsellors has been understudied. Objective: The aim was to describe the formal structure of the communication (Basic Forms) and the communicational intentions (Communicative Intentions) used in the messages sent by the counsellor and to determine if these are related to the post-intervention outcomes. Methods: 438 text messages sent by the counsellor to 53 first-time mothers (M = 25.32 years, SD = 4.23) who participated in the m-WWWT intervention were analyzed. The Therapeutic Activity Coding System was used to capture the communication as a “Communicative Action”. Results: The study highlighted the counsellor's frequent use of the “assertion” communicative form (82%) and attuned communicative intentions (52%) and explored (39%) in her messages. The attractors of communication were “assert to attune” and “assert to explore”, indicating an empathetic and informative communication style. With respect to their relationship with the intervention outcome, only “assert to explore” messages were positively related to maternal self-efficacy increases. The number of messages was not associated with participants’ characteristics at baseline, except for educational level. Discussion: Our results show the relevance of combining the delivery of information with a communication style that allows the counsellor to connect with the specific needs and emotional tone of the participants.