bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on the ultrasonic vibration on the cutting performance during ultrasonic-assisted drilling of CFRP with twist and dagger drill bits
Authors: Mao Xiangshan , Jia Xiaofeng , Zhang Guocheng
Published: January 2024

During the drilling process of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), defects such as exit delamination, tearing, and burrs are prone to occur, among which excessive axial force during drilling is the main reason for the generation of exit delamination defects. In this study, ultrasonic-assisted and conventional drilling with twist and dagger drills were investigated on 5 mm-thick multi-directional laminated fiber sheets made of T300-12k/AG80 carbon fiber composite with different orientations. The axial force evolutions in each case were monitored when drilling holes in CFRP plates, and the axial force of drilling and the appearance characteristics of hole outlet were compared. The experimental results showed that the ultrasonic assisted drilling reduced the axial drilling forces of twist and dagger drill by up to 20.6% and 30.7%, respectively, compared to conventional drills. In addition, as the feed rate increases, the axial force of drilling gradually increases, and the exit delamination factor shows an overall increasing trend. The ultrasonic vibrations reduced the exit delamination damage of both drills. A special structure of the dagger drill effectively avoided exit delamination during ultrasonic-assisted drilling, which makes the incision more neat to improve the processing quality.
Interplay of wayfinding strategies in route repetition and route retracing
Authors: Wiener Jan M , Bassett Ciera , Bentall Sophie , Black Chiarra
Published: January 2024

This study explores the interplay of navigation strategies in route repetition (repeating a recently travelled route) and route retracing (returning to the start location of a recently travelled route). Specifically, we investigated how sequence knowledge contributes to route repetition and retracing. In the learning phase, participants passively transported along a route. In the test phase, they were then asked to repeat or retrace the route. Decision points were either presented in an order coherent with the learning phase (from start to destination in route repetition, or from destination to start in route retracing), or in a randomised order. As expected, participants performed better in route repetition than in route retracing. Performance declined when intersections were presented in a randomised order indicating that sequence knowledge contributed to route repetition and route retracing. Presenting intersections in an order coherent with learning boosted performance specifically on the first part of the route during route repetition. This effect was not observed during route retracing. These results show that sequence knowledge is utilised differently during route repetition and retracing. We argue that participants use a “sequence of turns” strategy alongside associating landmarks with direction changes during route repetition, and that it is unlikely that route retracing relies on the same type of sequence knowledge. Instead, we believe route retracing utilises knowledge about the sequence in which decision points are encountered. Overall, the findings highlight a complex interplay of different strategies in route repetition and retracing, shedding light on how navigators utilise sequence knowledge for effective navigation.
Accuracy and reliability of perception of bar velocity loss for autoregulation in resistance exercise
Authors: da Silva Drumond Gilo , da Silva Rodrigo Fabio Bezerra , Gantois Petrus , Nascimento Vitor Bertoli , Nakamura Fábio Yuzo , Fonseca Fabiano de Souza
Published: January 2024

Background

The perception of bar velocity loss (PVL) can be used as an alternative method for autoregulating intraset repetitions during velocity-based training. This study analyzed the accuracy and reliability of the PVL as a method to autoregulate the intraset repetitions using a moderate velocity loss (VL) threshold (15–30%).

Methods

A total of 22 resistance-trained men were familiarized with the PVL in a single session. Test–retest was performed in two sessions 1 week apart, in which participants completed three sets of bench press and back squat at 40, 60, and 80% 1 repetition maximum (1RM). Participants stopped the sets when they reached a moderate VL zone using their PVL. Accuracy was assessed by analyzing whether the mean VL (actual) and the lower and upper limits of the confidence interval (CI) (95%) of each set were within the established VL range and quantifying the relative frequency of correctly interrupted sets. Test–retest reliability was examined by the intraclass correlation coefficient and coefficient of variation.

Results

PVL showed acceptable accuracy in both exercises at 60 and 80% 1RM (50–65% success rate) and retest for all loads (53–76% success rate). Similar PVL percentages were observed between most of the sets for the test and retest ( p > 0.05). Accuracy improved during the retest, especially for bench press (40% 1RM) and back squat (40 and 80% 1RM). PVL was not reliable in the test–retest comparison.

Conclusion

PVL can be a strategy with acceptable accuracy to autoregulate the intraset repetitions in a moderate zone (VL15–30%), but its reliability does not appear satisfactory after one familiarization session.
Dying whilst on probation: a scoping review of mortality amongst those under community justice supervision
Authors: Perrett SE , Craddock C , Gray BJ
Published: January 2024

Aim:

Data suggest mortality rates of those under community justice services such as probation or parole have been increasing year on year. Little is known about why and how these individuals are dying. This scoping review explores the causes and contributing factors of mortality in those under community justice supervision.

Methods:

Studies published between 2011 and 2021 were identified across CINAHL, Embase, Global Health, Ovid Medline and PsycINFO. Articles were included if they presented original data on either mortality rates among those under community justice supervision or risk factors associated with the mortality of those under community justice supervision.

Results:

Searches identified 101 unique articles of which 13 were included in the review. Articles were representative of five countries. All articles were either retrospective reviews or retrospective cohort studies. The studies fell into the categories of all-cause mortality, self-inflicted deaths or drug-related deaths.

Conclusion:

Mortality rates of those under community justice supervision were found to be consistently higher than mortality rates for the general population regardless of cause of death. Factors identified as affecting mortality included history of drug use, history of self-harm and previous imprisonment including length of time in custody and experience of hospitalisation or solitary confinement while in custody.
The influence of emotional reactions and compliance with Ministry of Health guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel: a longitudinal study of gender differences
Authors: Levkovich Inbar , Shinan-Altman Shiri
Published: January 2024

This study sought to examine gender differences in emotional reactions and compliance with Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic in Israel, with the goal of gaining a deeper understanding of these gender-related variations throughout the lockdown periods. A longitudinal study comprising 2509 participants was conducted during two of Israel’s lockdowns: 1424 participants completed a questionnaire during the first lockdown (23 April–5 May 2020); of these, 1085 completed a follow-up questionnaire during the second lockdown (September 30–October 10, 2020). Participants exhibited higher levels of compliance with MOH guidelines (e.g., wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing) and knowledge about COVID-19 during the second lockdown, whereas they exhibited more negative emotional reactions during the first lockdown. Female participants scored higher than male participants on all measures. Multiple regression results showed that about 21% of the variance in compliance with MOH guidelines was explained by lockdown type (i.e., first or second), gender, and age, while knowledge and negative emotional reactions added another 19% to the explained variance. The results suggest that the impact of the pandemic on emotional reactions decreased over time, with people exhibiting greater compliance with MOH guidelines and more knowledge about COVID-19. Moreover, the behavioral and psychological impact of the pandemic was greater on women than on men. The results suggest that healthcare professionals should pay more attention to mental health issues during a pandemic. Moreover, policymakers should focus on women as a vulnerable group and suggest appropriate solutions to reduce their emotional distress. Furthermore, governments and employers should provide greater flexibility and support for single mothers during the pandemic. In addition, gender inequality during lockdowns may place women at greater risk of psychological distress.
Concurrent validity and test-retest reliability of Squegg™ - smart dynamometer and handgrip trainer in healthy individuals
Authors: Amin Zarmina , Gutierrez Galilea , True Larissa
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Handgrip strength is crucial for overall health and is often evaluated using hand dynamometers. Two hand dynamometers were used in the study: the Jamar® Hydraulic Hand Dynamometer and Squegg™ Smart Dynamometer and Handgrip Trainer, which is a relatively new, Bluetooth-enabled device to measure handgrip strength. The purpose of the study was to compare Jamar and Squegg to determine concurrent validity and, separately, test-retest reliability of Squegg.

Methods

The cross-sectional study measured bimanual handgrip strength using the Jamar and Squegg in two sessions, following standard protocols. Participants were 18+ years old, with no hand disease or dysfunction. Spearman’s rank correlations were used to evaluate concurrent validity between Jamar and Squegg. Test-retest reliability was evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) estimates and 95% confidence intervals calculated using a mean-rating ( k = 2) absolute agreement, 2-way mixed effects model.

Results

Data from 594 participants were used to evaluate concurrent validity. Moderately strong correlations between Jamar and Squegg values for the right hand (RH) (ρ = 0.670; p = .001) and Jamar and Squegg values for the left hand (LH) (ρ = 0.730; p = .001) were found, indicating ‘good’ concurrent validity. Test-retest reliability for Squegg ranged from good to excellent (RH, ICC = 0.911, 95% CI (0.895, 0.924), p = .001; LH, ICC = 0.928, 95% CI (0.915, 0.939), p = .001).

Discussion

The Squegg demonstrated good concurrent validity with Jamar and good-to-excellent test-retest reliability. It can be recommended as an alternative to the Jamar as a handgrip strength measurement tool. Squegg, which uses Bluetooth technology, is a reliable and cost-effective option for consistent handgrip strength testing.
Pachymic Acid Alleviates Oxidative Damage of Retinal Cells Induced by Sodium Iodate or Hydrogen Peroxide by Activating the Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Qin Chengyao , Chen Xi , Hu Tianming , Sun Wenxiu , Liu Zehao , Li Min , Shao Yan , Wei Wei
Published: January 2024

Background: Pachymic acid (PA), extracted from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Poria cocos ( P cocos) is reported to protect organs such as the liver and lungs from damage. This study investigated the effect of PA on oxidative stress in the retina in vivo and in vitro. Methods: In vitro, retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells were treated with hydrogen peroxide to establish a cell model of oxidative damage. The viability of ARPE-19 cells was measured using an MTT kit. Apoptosis of the cells was detected using flow cytometry, and the expression of Caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 was determined. The oxidative stress level was evaluated by observing the production of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and GSH-Px using ELISA in mice serum. The retinal oxidative damage model was induced by intravenous injection of sodium iodate (SI) into the tail vein of mice. OCT, HE, and TUNEL staining monitored the structure and the apoptosis of the mouse retina. The regulatory oxidative factors nuclear transcription factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and HO-1 were determined using fluorescence staining. Results: H2O2 decreased the viability of RPE cells, which was recovered after PA administration and was shown to reduce the cell apoptosis rate, the expression of Bax, caspase-3, and the production of ROS. In vivo, the thinning of the retina and the apoptosis rate in the retinal tissue of mice caused by the administration of SI were reversed by treatment with PA. Furthermore, PA administration caused the translocation of Nrf2 and increased the expression of HO-1, and the application of these inhibitors inhibited this effect. Conclusion: PA protects RPE cells from oxidative stress and apoptosis by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, and it prevents retinal damage by halting the progression of retinal thinning in a mouse model of retinal oxidative damage.
Reimagine the ICU: Healthcare Professionals’ Perspectives on How Environments (Can) Promote Patient Well-Being
Authors: Kim Chan Mi , der Heide Esther M. van , van Rompay Thomas J. L. , Ludden Geke D. S.
Published: January 2024

Objective:

This study aims (1) to understand the needs and challenges of the current intensive care unit (ICU) environments in supporting patient well-being from the perspective of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and (2) to explore the new potential of ICU environments enabled by technology.

Background:

Evidence-based design has yielded how the design of environments can advocate for patient well-being, and digital technology offers new possibilities for indoor environments. However, the role of technology in facilitating ICU patient well-being has been unexplored.

Method:

This study was conducted in two phases. First, a mixed-method study was conducted with ICU HCPs from four Dutch hospitals. The study investigated the current environmental support for care activities, as well as the factors that positively and negatively contribute to patient experience. Next, a co-creation session was held involving HCPs and health technology experts to explore opportunities for technology to support ICU patient well-being.

Results:

The mixed-method study revealed nine negative and eight positive patient experience factors. HCPs perceived patient emotional care as most challenging due to the ICU workload and a lack of environmental support in fulfilling patient emotional needs. The co-creation session yielded nine technology-enabled solutions to address identified challenges. Finally, drawing from insights from both studies, four strategies were introduced that guide toward creating technology to provide holistic and personalized care for patients.

Conclusion:

Patient experience factors are intertwined, necessitating a multifactorial approach to support patient well-being. Viewing the ICU environment as a holistic unit, our findings provide guidance on creating healing environments using technology.
Thinking across agrarian class hierarchies in guest worker programs: Limitations to worker and farmer collective strategies
Authors: Dudley Mary Jo , Minkoff-Zern Laura-Anne , Tynan Michelle , Zoodsma Anna
Published: January 2024

Both farmers and workers utilize guest worker programs to gain access to the transnational food labor economy. Yet such programs reinforce both employees’ and farm owners’ relative lack of power in the global food system. This paper discusses the approaches farmers and workers utilizing the H-2A guest worker program in the United States employ to cope with such inequalities. We assess findings from qualitative interviews in New York state with current and former workers and farmers participating in the program. We find that farmers draw on regional agrarian communities with historically established networks to collectively manage labor acquisition, seasonality, and affordability. In contrast, the temporary nature of workers’ time in the United States limits their ability to establish deep social networks, and workers cope either by increasing their hours and commitment or by leaving the program to work in agriculture without work authorization. These temporal and spatial constraints further diminish worker power within the food system by limiting their ability to effectively organize for better conditions, with consequences for global food system equity.
Longtermist Education Interventions Increase Concern for and Action to Protect Future Generations
Authors: Syropoulos Stylianos , Law Kyle Fiore , Young Liane
Published: January 2024

In a contemporary landscape fraught with unprecedented challenges, it is imperative to forge strategies that transcend present concerns and equally prioritize future generations. This research, anchored in the philosophy of longtermism, seeks to bridge this temporal divide. Across three pre-registered and highly-powered studies, we scrutinize the potential of philosophical arguments underpinning longtermism to foster alignment with its principles, thereby catalyzing attitudes and actions that resonate with a more future-oriented approach to global welfare. Leveraging scalable educational interventions through text and video media formats, we discern a noticeable resonance of these philosophical arguments among individuals, influencing their beliefs, policy support, donation behaviors, and cognitive investment directed toward the betterment of future generations. Our findings illuminate the critical mediating role of longtermism beliefs between the interventions and favorable future-focused outcomes, establishing the promising potential of philosophical discourse as a pragmatic tool in mobilizing collective efforts to safeguard our long-term future.
Splenic torsion in a cat with chronic anemia
Authors: Bucknoff Melissa C , Rolph Kerry E
Published: January 2024

Case summary

A 4-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat with chronic anemia was evaluated for acute-onset lethargy, vomiting, abdominal distension, and a palpably enlarged and firm spleen. Abdominal ultrasound confirmed marked splenomegaly and concern for a splenic infarct, prompting exploratory abdominal surgery, where splenic torsion was diagnosed. A splenectomy was performed, and the cat recovered uneventfully. Splenitis was diagnosed on histopathology. Anemia improved postoperatively. The role of chronic anemia and other concurrent findings in the development of splenic torsion in this case remains unknown.

Relevance and novel information

Splenic torsion has not been previously reported in cats, making this the first case of its kind. In cases of splenomegaly and abnormal splenic blood flow, splenic torsion should be considered a differential diagnosis in cats.
Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serotype Typhimurium induced pyelonephritis and suspected multifocal myositis in a cat
Authors: Wilson Remon , Barrs Vanessa R
Published: January 2024

Case summary

A 2-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat presented with an acute onset of muscular pain, ataxia and fever. Serological tests for Toxoplasma gondii IgM and IgG, cryptococcal antigen, feline immune deficiency virus antibody and feline leukaemia virus antigen were all negative. Brain and spinal MRI showed evidence of myositis and bilateral renal parenchymal abnormalities and pyelectasis. Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serotype Typhimurium 1,4, [5],12:i:1,2 was isolated from urine and was susceptible to amoxycillin, amoxycillin–clavulanic acid, enrofloxacin and trimethoprim–sulfonamide. All clinical signs resolved after a 2-week treatment course with oral amoxycillin–clavulanate. A repeat urine culture 7 days after completing the antimicrobial course was negative.

Relevance and novel information

Infection with Salmonella species is uncommon in cats and has not previously been reported in association with pyelonephritis or generalised myositis. The importance of performing urine culture in the initial diagnostic investigation of cats with pyrexia is highlighted in this case report.
The German version of the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (GER-MAUQ): Translation and validation study in patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Tacke Theodora , Nohl-Deryk Pascal , Lingwal Neelam , Reimer Lara Marie , Starnecker Fabian , Güthlin Corina , Gerlach Ferdinand M , Schunkert Heribert , Jonas Stephan , Müller Angelina
Published: January 2024

Objective

In Germany, only a few standardized evaluation tools for assessing the usability of mobile Health apps exist so far. This study aimed to translate and validate the English patient version for standalone apps of the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ) into a German version.

Methods

Following scientific guidelines for translation and cross-cultural adaptation, the patient version for standalone apps was forward and back-translated from English into German by an expert panel. In total, 53 participants who were recruited as part of the beta testing process of the recently developed mHealth app HerzFit, answered the questions of the German version of the MAUQ (GER-MAUQ) and the System Usability Scale. Subsequently, a descriptive as well as a psychometric analysis was performed to test validity and reliability.

Results

After conducting three cognitive interviews, five items were modified. The values for Cronbach alpha for the entire questionnaire and the three subscales (0.966, 0.814, 0.910, and 0.909) indicate strong internal consistency. The correlation analysis revealed that the scores of the GER-MAUQ, the subscales and the SUS were strongly correlated with each other. The correlation coefficient of the SUS and the GER-MAUQ overall score was r = 0.854, P < 0.001 and the coefficients of the subscales and the SUS were r = 0.642, P < 0.001; r = 0.866, P < 0.001 and r = 0.643, P < 0.001.

Conclusions

We have developed a novel German version of the MAUQ and demonstrated it as a reliable and valid measurement tool for assessing the usability of standalone mHealth apps from the patients’ perspective. The GER-MAUQ allows a new form of standardized assessment of usability of mHealth apps for patients with cardiovascular disease in Germany. Further research with a larger sample and other samples is recommended.
Navigating the infodemic: A qualitative study of university students’ information strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gies Lieve , Gogoi Mayuri , Bayliss Christopher D. , Pareek Manish , Webb Adam
Published: January 2024

Objectives

We aimed to study the strategies which university students developed for vetting information during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated infodemic.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 34 students, using a piloted topic guide which explored several areas of pandemic experiences, including students’ use of media. Transcripts were analysed inductively following the thematic approach. Higher order themes were finalised following a coding exercise undertaken by two of the authors.

Results

Participants were acutely aware of misinformation during the pandemic. They rated legacy news media (print and broadcast media with pre-Internet origins) higher than social media for reliable information about the pandemic. However, strikingly, not all legacy media were automatically trusted and not all social media were uniformly distrusted. Participants identified a set of mechanisms for establishing whether a piece of information was truthful and accurate. These mechanisms had four main focal points: (1) the source, (2) the message, (3) individual media literacy and (4) the trustworthiness of others. Despite possessing a critical awareness of misinformation, participants avoided posting anything in relation to the pandemic for fear of becoming the target of online abuse.

Conclusions

In addition to underscoring the role of media literacy, our research foregrounds the need to attend to the importance of fostering media confidence. We define media confidence as the ability of digital media users to challenge and interrogate questionable or inaccurate information safe in the knowledge that there are adequate regulatory mechanisms in place to curb abuse, trolling and intimidation.
Does ChatGPT change artificial intelligence-enabled marketing capability? Social media investigation of public sentiment and usage
Authors: Ngo Vu Minh
Published: January 2024

The recent advent of ChatGPT has stirred substantial attention and debates, potentially altering the dynamics across various industries, notably marketing. This pioneering study delves into the public reactions and applications of ChatGPT within marketing realms. Leveraging a text-mining methodology, a corpus of over 600,000 tweets harvested before and after ChatGPT’s launch from January 2021 to April 2023 was scrutinized to gauge public sentiment towards AI-incorporated tools in marketing, and to unearth the predominant themes within public discourse. Initial findings unveiled a buoyant public sentiment towards AI-facilitated tools, which however, ebbed in January 2023, driven by apprehensions regarding AI technology’s limitations and potential perils. Subsequent months witnessed a rebound in sentiment, stabilizing above the positive threshold, as Twitter users increasingly acknowledged ChatGPT’s prospective merits on employment and daily lives. However, compared to the period before the introduction of ChatGPT, there has been a decline in the general public’s sentiment towards AI in marketing. Furthermore, the analysis discerned a convergence in the core topics broached by the public concerning AI and ChatGPT’s ramifications on marketing. While the automation of mundane tasks and heightened customer experience were lauded, trepidations surrounding job displacement and the ethical quandaries of supplanting human labor with machines surfaced. This exposition recommends that enterprises meticulously assess the prospective impact of AI on their personnel, advocating for the judicious and ethical deployment of such emergent technologies.
Real-Time Detection of Circulating Thrombi in an Extracorporeal Circuit Using Doppler Ultrasound: In-Vitro Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Peer Syed Murfad , Desai Manan , Bukhari Syed , Delores Yunchuan , Jonas Richard , Sinha Pranava
Published: January 2024

Background

Thromboembolic stroke continues to be by far the most common severe adverse event in patients supported with mechanical circulatory assist devices. Feasibility of using Doppler ultrasound to detect circulating thrombi in an extracorporeal circuit was investigated.

Methods

A mock extracorporeal circulatory loop of uncoated cardiopulmonary bypass tubing and a roller pump was setup. A Doppler bubble counter was used to monitor the mean ultrasound backscatter signal (MUBS). The study involved two sets of experiments. In Scenario 1, the circuit was sequentially primed with human blood components, and the MUBS was measured. In Scenario 2, the circuit was primed with heparinized fresh porcine blood, and the MUBS was measured. Fresh blood clots (diameter <1,000 microns, 1,000-5,000 microns, >5,000 microns) were injected into the circuit followed by protamine administration.

Results

In Scenario 1 (n = 3), human platelets produced a baseline MUBS of 1.5 to 3.5 volts/s. Addition of packed human red blood cells increased the baseline backscatter to 17 to 21 volts/s. Addition of fresh frozen plasma did not change the baseline backscatter. In Scenario 2 (n = 5), the blood-primed circuit produced a steady baseline MUBS. Injection of the clots resulted in abrupt and transient increase (range: 3-30 volts/s) of the baseline MUBS. Protamine administration resulted in a sustained increase of MUBS followed by circuit thrombosis.

Conclusions

Doppler ultrasound may be used for real-time detection of circulating solid microemboli in the extracorporeal circuit. This technology could potentially be used to design safety systems that can reduce the risk of thromboembolic stroke associated with mechanical circulatory support therapy.
Self-Perceived Personal Brand Equity of Knowledge Workers by Gender in Light of Knowledge-Driven Organizational Culture: Evidence From Poland and the United States
Authors: Kucharska Wioleta
Published: January 2024

This study contributes to the limited literature on the personal branding of knowledge workers by revealing that a culture that incorporates knowledge, learning, and collaboration supports (explicit and tacit) knowledge sharing among employees and that sharing matters for knowledge workers’ self-perceived personal brand equity. Analysis of 2,168 cases from the United States and Poland using structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that this knowledge-sharing mechanism differs by country and gender. Findings revealed that in the United States, the knowledge culture and collaboration culture are highly correlated and dominate the learning culture. In both countries, the mistake acceptance component of the learning culture is not supported by knowledge culture as strongly as is the climate component. These findings reveal a bias concerning the acceptance of mistakes as a potential source of learning observed if the culture of knowledge dominates. Moreover, this study uncovers some significant gender differences that might be caused by the gender stereotypes existing in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). Finally, the study confirms that knowledge workers’ personal branding is a potent motive to smoothen and increase the knowledge-sharing flow in knowledge-driven organizations.
Perception of Dieners Regarding Social Acceptance and the Right to Work: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Dartey Anita Fafa , Dzansi Gladys , Nyande Felix Kwasi , Avor Wisdom Kwasi Mensah , Pomaa Portia , Glover-Meni Nathaniel , Akortiakumah John Kwasi
Published: January 2024

Globally, the right to work is a modest human right. It is a right acknowledged under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which delineates the various types of work. As such, each person is at liberty to take up any job granted that one has the capacity and skills. This decision must be free from stigma or discrimination. However, this is not the case with mortuary attendants in Ghana. This study explored the viewpoints of Ghanaian mortuary attendants and how society perceives their rights to work. The study used a qualitative research approach, with exploratory and descriptive designs, that sought an in-depth understanding from sampled mortuary attendants on the perception of their community members toward their work. Saturation was attained with nineteen (19) participants from nine (9) health facilities located in the three regions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and audio recorded with concurrent data transcription and analysis using content analysis. Purposive sampling was used. The study included male or female mortuary employees with at least 1 year of working experience. The themes that emerged were as follows; self-stigma, public stigma, stigma-by-association, and structural stigma. The results were structured according to a stigma model. The study reveals high levels of stigmatization and discrimination against mortuary attendants. Researchers recommend the need for public education, and policy changes to reverse the scornful stigmatization and discrimination against death care workers and those in related profiles.
Impact of Access to Land on Women’s Economic Well-Being: An Empirical Evidence From Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Tahmina , Mahmud Kazi Tanvir , Moniruzzaman Md. , Tareque Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Rural women in Bangladesh usually have lack of access, control and ownership over their land property because of existing patriarchal norms of the rural society. The prime objective of this study was to assess the impact of rural women’s access to land on their income as well as household income. A multistage, geographically clustered, probability-based sampling approach was adopted for this study. Primary data were collected from the rural women living in two selected districts of Bangladesh. The Propensity Score Matching technique was used to assess the impact of land accessibility on household income and rural women’s income. The Binary Logistic Regression technique was used to assess women’s opinions. The study findings revealed that land had a positive impact on household income but rural women’s income did not increase significantly despite having access to land. This study also showed that income, level of education, the existence of NGO operated programs in villages, and the number of visits to NGO offices by rural women were the key factors contributing to improving their overall well-being. Findings imply that the government should design an appropriate land ownership policy that guarantees titling as well as access for women to land.
Evaluation of Graft Maturation by MRI in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With and Without Concomitant Anterolateral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Yau W.P. , Lin Wei
Published: January 2024

Background:

Single-bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (SB-ACLR) with concomitant anterolateral ligament reconstruction (ALLR) has been associated with better clinical results when compared with isolated SB-ACLR. However, it is not known whether the improved outcomes are the result of the influence of concomitant ALLR on ACL graft healing.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether concomitant ALLR is associated with improved graft ligamentization after SB-ACLR. It was hypothesized that ALLR would not affect graft healing.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A 1 to 1 matching study was conducted on a consecutive series of 732 patients who underwent ACLR using a hamstring tendon autograft between 2007 and 2019. Patients were excluded if they had skeletal immaturity, inflammatory joint disease, multiple ligament reconstruction (other than ALLR), or a graft rupture. Patients with concomitant SB-ACLR and ALLR (SB-ACLR/ALLR) and isolated SB-ACLR were matched 1 to 1 based on age, sex, examination under anesthesia (EUA) grade 3 pivot shift, EUA grade 3 anterior drawer test, presence of graft impingement, sagittal graft angle, skeletal maturity, lack of generalized ligamentous laxity, and multiple ligamentous injury. A total of 40 matched pairs underwent postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) within the second year after surgery to assess graft ligamentization, which was measured by the signal-to-noise quotient (SNQ) of the ACL graft.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 41 months, with a 2-year follow-up rate of 80% in the SB-ACLR/ALLR group and 98% in the isolated SB-ACLR group. The mean duration between the index operation and MRI was 16.4 ± 3.4 months. No significant difference was observed in the SNQ of the ACL graft between the SB-ACLR/ALLR and SB-ACLR groups (6.9 ± 4.6 vs 5.2 ± 4.8, respectively; P = .066).

Conclusion:

Study findings indicated that a concomitant ALLR at the time of hamstring tendon autograft ACLR did not affect graft healing as assessed by the SNQ of the ACL graft.
The benefit of favorable venous outflow profile is mediated through reduced microvascular dysfunction in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Li Siyuan , Hong Lan , Yang Wenhao , Liu Xinyu , Zhang Yiran , Ling Yifeng , He Zhijiao , Wang Xinru , Yue Yunhua , Dong Qiang , Wang Feng , Cheng Xin , Xin Cheng , Feng Wang , Yunhua Yue , Ying Guo , Guozhi Lu , Jin Zhang , Ziran Wang , Xiaoyu Zhou , Danhong Wu , Qijin Zhai , Qi Fang , Ying Tang , Xin Zou , Bosheng Fan , Rongbo Qu
Published: January 2024

Introductions:

Venous outflow (VO) is emerging as a marker of microvascular integrity in acute ischemic stroke. Using hemorrhagic transformation (HT) and infarct growth as mediators, we tested whether a favorable VO profile benefited functional outcome by reducing consequences of microvascular dysfunction.

Patients and methods:

Patients receiving thrombectomy in three comprehensive stroke centers due to acute anterior circulation occlusion were included. VO was assessed semi-quantitatively by the opacification of ipsilateral vein of Labbé, Trolard and superficial middle cerebral vein. HT was graded on follow-up CT. Infarct growth volume (IGV) was the difference of final infarct volume and baseline core volume. The association of VO and functional independence (90-day modified Rankin Scale ⩽ 2) was examined by logistic regression. Mediation analysis was performed among VO, HT or IGV, and functional outcome in patients with or without recanalization, respectively.

Results:

In 242 patients analyzed, VO was strongly correlated with functional independence and VO ⩾ 4 was defined favorable. In 175 patients recanalized, favorable VO was associated with a reduced risk of HT (OR = 0.82, 95% CI 0.71–0.95, p = 0.008), which accounted for 13.1% of the association between VO and favorable outcome. In 67 patients without recanalization, favorable VO was associated with decreased IGV (β = −0.07, 95% CI −0.11 to −0.02, p = 0.007). The association of favorable VO and functional independence was no longer significant (aOR = 4.84, 95% CI 0.87–38.87, p = 0.089) after including IGV in the model, suggesting a complete mediation.

Discussion and Conclusion:

In patients with acute anterior large vessel occlusion, the clinical benefit of VO may be mediated through reduced microvascular dysfunction.
Evaluating relocation behavior of establishments: Evidence for the short-term effects of COVID-19
Authors: Riahi Samani Ali , Riahisamani Reza , Mishra Sabyasachee , Golias Mihalis M , Jung-Hwi Lee David
Published: January 2024

Due to the significant effects of establishments’ relocations on travel patterns and land-use conditions, investigating establishments’ relocation behavior is an important issue. In recent years, many establishments closed or relocated because of a downturn economy, health concerns, interrupted supply chains, and work-from-home caused by the pandemic. Hence, this study aims to propose a modeling approach to assess and compare the relocation behavior of establishments before, during, and after the pandemic. Establishments’ relocation behavior is modeled in two steps: relocation decision and relocation action. The former provides insights into behavioral factors associated with establishment relocation and the latter models likelihood of spatial relocation choice. Using the data collected from the state of Tennessee, USA, the Random Forest classification approach is incorporated to model both steps, where the model validation results showed the promising accuracy of this modeling approach. Moreover, statistical analyses are applied to evaluate the differences between the spatial relocation choices throughout the time. Results showed that in post-Covid conditions, the importance of establishment characteristics on relocation decisions was reduced by half and relocations occurred more due to office profile and accessibility. Results of modeling relocation action indicated the high importance of accessibility, even though the attractiveness of accessibility was reduced by 20.9% in post-Covid analysis. The findings of this study enrich the knowledge on establishment relocation behavior and provide valuable information regarding the effect of the pandemic, which can be used in policy development and travel behavior modeling by urban and transportation planners.
Salto Talaris Fixed-Bearing Total Ankle Arthroplasty: Long-Term Results at a Mean of 10.7 Years
Authors: Veale Matthew , Endo Atsushi , Veale Nicholas , Swanson Daniel , Mahendraraj Kuhan , Brzezinski Andrzej , Hofmann Kurt , Slovenkai Mark
Published: January 2024

Background:

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) has become increasingly popular in the treatment for end-stage ankle arthritis in recent decades. However, there is limited evidence regarding the long-term clinical outcomes and complication rates of modern TAA implants.

Methods:

This study presents a follow-up on a previous cohort involving 78 patients (81 ankles) who underwent Salto Talaris fixed-bearing TAA to treat end-stage arthritis, with a mean postoperative follow-up of 5.2 years. The aim of this follow-up study was to assess the radiographic (33 patients, 35 ankles) and clinical (48 patients, 50 ankles) results from the original cohort at a mean of 10.7 years (range, 7.8-14 years).

Results:

At a mean of 10.7 years, the Kaplan-Meier estimated survivorship was 84.2% (95% CI, 71.9%-98.6%). For the patients reviewed, we did not find any change in patient-reported outcomes between an average 5- and 11-year follow-up. Measured total range of motion and plantarflexion did not change between 1 and 11 years, but dorsiflexion was measured as decreasing by an average of 4 degrees ( P < .02).

Conclusion:

In this longer-term follow-up of a limited cohort, we found that Salto Talaris fixed-bearing TAA demonstrated good long-term survival with relatively low rates of revision or other complications. Patient-reported outcome and range of motion measures revealed good stability.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, therapeutic.
Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder Among Dating Apps Users: A Case Report
Authors: Rema João
Published: January 2024

The report illustrates the difficult management of a clinical case of a patient with compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) that presented an excessive use of geosocial networking apps (GNAs) and sex workers for sexual encounters and discusses how this interplay might manifest differently in gay men. The author presents the clinical case of a 24-year-old male with daily severe and repetitive sexual impulses that lead to a recurring pattern of sexual behavior, accompanied by high dysfunctionality. CSBD was diagnosed and treatment relied on a combination of psychopharmacology and cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy while targeting excessive use of dating apps, minority stress risk factors, and sexual dysfunction. A progressive improvement in impulse control and remission of symptoms was observed. At 1-year follow-up, the patient presented recovery of functioning in social, occupational, and relational areas. This article exemplifies the need for further characterization and development of treatment guidelines for CSBD, especially in non-heterosexual persons with GNAs use and distinct sets of sociocultural stressors.
An Exploratory Study Investigating the Correlates of Sexual Health Anxiety and Preferences for Digital Services Amongst Internet Users
Authors: Arneaud Gervan , Buchanan Tom , Gautier Chantal , Nadarzynski Tom
Published: January 2024

Background:

Sexual health clinics are under increasing pressure because of the demand for sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening services. Sexual health anxiety has been associated with increased clinic attendance and repeat screening.

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the level of sexual health anxiety and its correlates in adults in England and their opinions on digital sexual health services.

Setting and Design:

An online cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2019 and January 2020 among internet users living in England aged 18 years and older.

Methods:

Participants were recruited from advertisements on social media (eg, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and Reddit), and data were collected via an online Qualtrics survey.

Statistical Analysis:

Multiple regression analyses were used to identify correlates of sexual health anxiety.

Results:

One-hundred and thirty-eight participants completed the survey (mean age = 29.25, SD = 11.29; 51% male, 81% White, and 56% educated to the degree level). Average sexual health anxiety was mild ( M = 2.19, SD = .79), and the average subscale values ranged from 1.88 (SD = .92) to 2.67 (SD = 1.25). Higher sexual health anxiety was predicted by a higher frequency of obsessive-compulsive behavior and a greater risk perception of STIs. There were some overlaps between the predictors of subtypes, but further research is needed.

Conclusion:

Despite the levels of sexual health anxiety in the sample, the acceptability of digital sexual health services was high, but preferences leaned heavily toward face-to-face and in-person interaction.
Gratification Disorder: A Case Report from the Himalayan Country–Nepal
Authors: Sharma Pawan , Dhungel Omkar , Saini Lokesh
Published: January 2024

The gratification disorder is common in children between the ages of 3 months and 3 years. The condition is called a “disorder,” but it is a normal behavioral variant in early childhood. The common differentials for this condition are childhood epileptic seizures. The failure to recognize this case may lead to unnecessary investigations and inappropriate treatment. It improves with age, generally by reassuring the anxious parents. In this case report, we present a case of a 2-year-old female child with a history of episodic rocking of the hip and scissoring of lower limbs, and she was treated with anti-epileptics but showed no improvement. After detailed assessment and normal investigations, a diagnosis of gratification disorder was made. The parents were psycho-educated and assured. Though reluctant to accept the diagnosis, they complied with the advice of ignoring the events and distracting the child. This was a challenging case for both the clinicians to diagnose and the parents to accept the diagnosis.
Prevalence and Patterns of Sexual Dysfunction in Male Patients Suffering from Major Depressive Disorder Attending Psychiatry Outpatient Department
Authors: Jani Arpit , Chandrani Kalpesh , Prajapati Nisha
Published: January 2024

Background:

Major depressive disorder (MDD) can cause sexual dysfunction (SD), and it is more frequent with antidepressant treatment. Different antidepressant agents have different effects on SD according to their group and dose, which is studied in the present research.

Aims:

(a) To study the prevalence and patterns of SD in male patients with MDD, both drug naïve and on antidepressant treatment. (b) To correlate the severity of depression and SD.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional study carried out among 200 patients who attended to the psychiatry outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Every fifth patient with MDD attending to an investigator had been enrolled for the study. Sociodemographic details and clinical variables were obtained. The diagnosis of MDD established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition, criteria and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was used to assess the severity of depression. The Arizona Sexual Experience Scale and Change in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire-14 was applied to measure SD.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical analysis was done using the χ2 test, unpaired t test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and analysis of variance test.

Results:

Total 82 (41%) patients had SD. Amongst them, 37 (45.12%) patients had the onset of SD before and 45 (54.88%) patients had the onset of SD after treatment. There was a statistically significant correlation between the severity of depression and SD ( P = .001), SD responses of patients on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and tricyclic antidepressant ( P = .005). Sexual pleasure shows statistical significance with severity ( P = .004) and duration of depressive illness ( P = .03). The age factor was statistically significant with SD.

Conclusions:

Sexual dysfunction had significance with the severity of depression. Sexual pleasure had significance with severity and duration of depression, and some SD domains had significance with age groups.