bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Swedish Courts’ Evaluations of Interpreter-Mediated Child Investigative Interviews
Authors: Ernberg Emelie , Löfgren Charlotte , Koponen Linnea , Magnusson Mikaela
Published: March 2023

Children can need the help of an interpreter if they are victims of a crime and need to be forensically interviewed in another language. Recent findings from practitioners raise concerns about the state of interpreter-mediated interviews with children. The current study aimed to explore how Swedish criminal courts reason when assessing interpreter-mediated and interpreter-absent (with children who are not fluent in Swedish) child investigative interviews. We conducted qualitative and descriptive analyses of written court verdicts involving 108 child victims who were evaluated to need an interpreter during their investigative interview. The courts frequently discussed issues regarding possible misinterpretations, language difficulties, and confusion. These perceived deficiencies in the interviews were often mentioned as a cause for assessing the child’s testimony with caution and, in some cases, as lowering the evidential value of the child interview. Possible implications for children’s legal rights are discussed.
Growing conditions of Saccharomyces boulardii for the development of potentially probiotic mead: Fermentation kinetics, viable cell counts and bioactive compounds
Authors: de Souza Handray Fernandes , Bessa Mariana Sousa , Gonçalves Victor Dédalo Di Próspero , dos Santos João Vitor , Pinheiro Carolina , das Chagas Eduardo Galvão Leite , de Carvalho Marina Vieira , Brandi Igor Viana , Kamimura Eliana Setsuko
Published: March 2023

Mead is an alcoholic beverage produced by the fermentation of a diluted honey solution by the action of yeast. Recently, research has shown the potential of S. boulardii for brewing beer and in the development of probiotic alcoholic beverages and, to date, no research has examined for mead production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth conditions of S. boulardii for the development of potentially probiotic mead. The findings show that initial wort soluble solids conditions of 30 °Brix and initial concentration of 0.030 g/L of S. boulardii obtain potentially probiotic mead with viable yeast cells of 6.53 Log10 CFU/mL, alcohol content of 5.05%, and has the presence of total phenolics (17.72 mg GAE/100 mL) and natural antioxidants (62.79 and 1.37 µmol TE/100 mL for ABTS and FRAP methods, respectively). In conclusion, S. boulardii has a potential for the development of probiotic mead.
Satisfaction with videoconference-delivered CBT provided as part of a blended treatment approach for children and adolescents with mental disorders and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic: A follow-up survey among caregivers and therapists
Authors: von Wirth Elena , Meininger Lea , Adam Julia , Woitecki Katrin , Treier Anne-Katrin , Döpfner Manfred
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Psychotherapy delivered via videoconferencing (teletherapy) was a well-accepted treatment option for children and adolescents during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. Information on the long-term satisfaction with teletherapy in routine clinical practice is missing.

Methods

Caregivers (parents) and psychotherapists of n  =  228 patients (4–20 years) treated in a university outpatient clinic completed a follow-up survey on satisfaction with videoconference-delivered cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT). The follow-up survey (T2) was conducted about 1 year after initial assessment of treatment satisfaction in 2020 (T1).

Results

At follow up, therapists reported that 79% of families had received teletherapy as part of a blended treatment approach including in-person and videoconference delivery of CBT. Wilcoxon tests revealed that satisfaction with teletherapy was stable over time. In addition, parent ratings of the impact of teletherapy on treatment satisfaction and the therapeutic relationship did not change over time. Therapists’ ratings of the impact of teletherapy on the therapeutic relationship with the caregiver were more negative at T2 compared to T1. Satisfaction with teletherapy was higher for patients with less pandemic-related stress, less externalizing behavior problems, and older age (all r < .35).

Conclusion

The high level of satisfaction with teletherapy for children and adolescents treated in routine clinical practice reported in 2020 was maintained after social distancing regulations were eased in 2021. Teletherapy provided as part of a blended treatment approach is a well-accepted method of treatment delivery for youths with mental health problems. The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00028639).
Using data analytics for telehealth utilization: A case study in Arkansas
Authors: Cengil Aysenur Betul , Eksioglu Burak , Eksioglu Sandra , Eswaran Hari , Hayes Corey J , Bogulski Cari A
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Many patients used telehealth services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we evaluate how different factors have affected telehealth utilization in recent years. Decision makers at the federal and state levels can use the results of this study to inform their healthcare-related policy decisions.

Methods

We implemented data analytics techniques to determine the factors that explain the use of telehealth by developing a case study using data from Arkansas. Specifically, we built a random forest regression model which helps us identify the important factors in telehealth utilization. We evaluated how each factor impacts the number of telehealth patients in Arkansas counties.

Results

Of the 11 factors evaluated, five are demographic, and six are socioeconomic factors. Socioeconomic factors are relatively easier to influence in the short term. Based on our results, broadband subscription is the most important socioeconomic factor and population density is the most important demographic factor. These two factors were followed by education level, computer use, and disability in terms of their importance as it relates to telehealth use.

Discussion

Based on studies in the literature, telehealth has the potential to improve healthcare services by improving doctor utilization, reducing direct and indirect waiting times, and reducing costs. Thus, federal and state decision makers can influence the utilization of telehealth in specific locations by focusing on important factors. For example, investments can be made to increase broadband subscriptions, education levels, and computer use in targeted locations.
L2 vocabulary learning in a mixed-proficiency community-engaged program: Designing vocabulary instruction for college students
Authors: Marcos Miguel Nausica , Osa-Melero Lucía , Martínez Carmen Alicia
Published: March 2023

Although extensive research exists on the personal, social, and academic outcomes of community-engaged programs (CEPs), limited research exists on vocabulary learning and students’ perceptions of their own vocabulary learning through participation in a CEP. Likewise, limited research exists on vocabulary learning in mixed-proficiency groups of Spanish second language (L2) learners. This study contributes to the current literature by exploring the vocabulary learning of 57 mixed-proficiency L2-Spanish college students who participated in a health-focused after-school program with Spanish–English bilingual children in a Midwestern city in the US. The higher proficiency students were enrolled in a language-focused class, whereas the lower-level students were enrolled in a Spanish for health professional’s class. Student reflective narratives revealed positive perceptions of vocabulary learning during the CEP, as vocabulary learning was seen to be fundamental to connecting with children in the Latino community. Productive vocabulary tests revealed significantly higher gains on vocabulary items that had been explicitly taught in class, but gains varied according to learners’ proficiency levels. Lower-level students showed both higher gains and a higher perception of vocabulary gains than more advanced students. Students’ reflective narratives suggest that the focus on health content in the lower-level class may have contributed both to vocabulary gains and to students’ awareness of learning. Recommendations for effective vocabulary instruction for mixed-proficiency students in a CEP are presented.
Metacognitive verbs do not show a cross-language gap: An investigation of metacognitive and concrete verbs in bilingual children
Authors: Muszyńska Karolina , Kołak Joanna , Haman Ewa , Białecka-Pikul Marta , Otwinowska Agnieszka
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

Previous research on bilingual vocabulary has focussed largely on words for imaginable objects and actions (e.g., ‘apple’, ‘write’), but did not consider abstract words. We looked for a disproportion across two languages (a cross-language gap) in bilingual children’s knowledge of concrete verbs (e.g., ‘jump’, ‘drink’) and metacognitive verbs (e.g., ‘think’, ‘know’). We also investigated the effects of language exposure and age on bilinguals’ knowledge of both concrete and metacognitive verbs.

Methodology:

Thirty-nine Polish–English children aged 4;0–7;7 living in the United Kingdom performed vocabulary tasks in both languages: subtasks from Cross-linguistic Lexical Tasks (CLTs) measuring concrete verbs comprehension and production, and metacognitive vocabulary task (METVOC) measuring metacognitive verbs comprehension. Information on children’s cumulative exposure (CE) to each language was collected via parental reports. The amount of metacognitive talk children received in Polish was obtained from parental oral semi-structured narratives.

Data and Analysis:

Mixed-effects regression models were fitted separately for each task.

Findings:

A cross-language gap was observed for comprehension of concrete verbs, but metacognitive verbs did not show a cross-language gap. In production of concrete verbs, the English scores showed a steeper increase over age than the Polish scores. CE affected only production of concrete verbs. Correlational analyses showed children’s knowledge of metacognitive verbs in Polish (but not in English) was related to parental metacognitive talk in Polish.

Originality:

To date, few studies on bilingual children focused on words beyond those referring to imaginable objects and actions, and no study has explored both concrete and metacognitive vocabulary knowledge in bilinguals.

Implications:

A cross-language gap was observed for bilinguals’ concrete verbs, but metacognitive verbs showed a carry-over effect across languages. The two categories of verbs were also related to different types of linguistic input. While CE affected production of concrete verbs, parental metacognitive talk supported children’s knowledge of metacognitive verbs, but only in the language it was provided in.
Effect of replacing television viewing with different intensities of physical activity on COVID-19 mortality risk: Short communication from UK Biobank
Authors: Hamrouni Malik , Bishop Nicolette
Published: March 2023

Aims:

This study aimed to examine the theoretical effects of replacing television (TV) viewing with different intensities of physical activity on COVID-19 mortality risk using isotemporal substitution models.

Methods:

The analytical sample was composed of 359,756 UK Biobank participants. TV viewing and physical activity were assessed by self-report. Logistic regressions adjusted for covariates were used to model the effects of substituting an hour a day of TV viewing with an hour of walking, moderate-intensity physical activity (MPA) or vigorous-intensity physical activity (VPA) on COVID-19 mortality risk.

Results:

From 16 March 2020 to 12 November 2021, there were 879 COVID-19 deaths in the analytical sample. Substituting an hour a day of TV viewing with an hour of walking was associated with a 17% lower risk of COVID-19 mortality (odds ratio (OR)=0.83, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74–0.92). In sex-stratified analyses, the same substitution was associated with a lower risk in both men (OR=0.85, 95% CI 0.74–0.96) and women (OR=0.78, 95% CI 0.65–0.95). However, replacing an hour a day of TV viewing with an hour of MPA was only associated with a lower risk in women (OR=0.80, 95% CI 0.65–0.98).

Conclusions:

Replacing TV viewing with walking was associated with a significant reduction in COVID-19 mortality risk. Public health authorities should consider promoting the replacement of TV viewing with walking as a protective strategy against COVID-19 mortality.
The power of digital activism for transnational advocacy: Leadership, engagement, and affordance
Authors: Cheng Edmund W , Lui Elizabeth , Fu King-wa
Published: March 2023

Recent literature has underscored the power of digital activism, but few studies have symmetrically examined its impact beyond domestic audiences and among illiberal regimes. The co-occurrence of mass protests in East and Southeast Asia in 2019–2021, when protesters called for help from international communities, offers a valuable opportunity to test the power of digital media. This study uses a data set of 154 million Twitter posts and a time-series model to contrast sets of collective action metrics and connective action metrics with a novel dependent variable—foreign politicians’ responses. We then analyze the directional, intensity, and time-lagged effects of the relevant cue-taking processes. We find that the new metrics are more potent in predicting responses from foreign politicians. Agency- and network-centered metrics also outperform number- and intensity-oriented metrics across the three cases. These findings have implications for the roles of opinion leadership and engagement networks in digital activism.
Framing and social movements
Authors: Caiani Manuela
Published: March 2023

This article explores the notion and method of discourse and frame analysis in social movement studies. Different cases of frame analysis applied to various types of social movements and contentious politics in Europe are used to illustrate the argument. As stressed in the introduction to this special issue, although the concept of frame and framing is used in several disciplines and approaches in the cognitive, language and social sciences, research on social movements still presents some gaps. One is the prevalent application of frame analysis approach to progressive left wing movements, leaving aside actors on the Right. A second weakness is the scarcity of empirical research combining the micro (i.e. activists) and meso (i.e. organizations) level of framing and exploring dynamics of frame ‘(dis-)alignment’. Third, there is mainly a focus on the framing of national rather than transnational contention, although as this article shows, social movement research is increasing on this regard. The fourth weakness is the scarcity of applications of framing and frame analysis to collective actors and policies - a promising line of research to which social movement studies could make valuable contributions. This article will address these issues to highlight promising venues of research and application in social movement studies.
Maddening pre-service early childhood education and care through poetics: Dismantling epistemic injustice through mad autobiographical poetics
Authors: Davies Adam WJ
Published: March 2023

In this article, the author forwards the importance of mad autobiographical poetic writing to challenge and disrupt epistemic injustice within pre-service early childhood education and care. They explore their own mad autobiographical poetic writing as a queer, non-binary, mad early childhood educator and pre-service early childhood education and care faculty member, and argue that mad poetic writing can methodologically be used as a form of resistance to epistemic injustices and epistemological erasure in early childhood education and care. This article argues for the importance of autobiographical writing in early childhood education and care, and the necessity of centralizing early childhood educators’ subjectivities and histories when addressing – and transforming – issues of equity, inclusion and belonging in early childhood education and care. The personal and intimate mad autobiographical poetic writing of this article – written by the author – focuses on how personal experience with madness as it pertains to working within pre-service early childhood education and care can challenge norms that govern and regulate madness. Ultimately, the author argues that transformation in early childhood education and care can take place by reflecting on experiences of mental and emotional distress, and considering poetic writings as starting places for imagining new futurities and a plurality of educator voices and perspectives.
Exploring the provision and support of care for long-term conditions in dementia: A qualitative study combining interviews and document analysis
Authors: Rees Jessica , Burton Alexandra , Walters Kate , Cooper Claudia
Published: March 2023

Background

The challenge of managing multiple long-term conditions is a prevalent issue for people with dementia and those who support their care. The presence of dementia complicates healthcare delivery and the development of personalised care plans, as health systems and clinical guidelines are often designed around single condition services.

Objective

This study aimed to explore how care for long-term conditions is provided and supported for people with dementia in the community.

Methods

In a qualitative, case study design, consecutive telephone or video-call interviews were conducted with people with dementia, their family carers and healthcare providers over a four-month period. Participant accounts were triangulated with documentary analysis of primary care medical records and event-based diaries kept by participants with dementia. Thematic analysis was used to develop across-group themes.

Findings

Six main themes were identified from eight case studies: 1) Balancing support and independence, 2) Implementing and adapting advice for dementia contexts, 3) Prioritising physical, cognitive and mental health needs, 4) Competing and entwined needs and priorities, 5) Curating supportive professional networks, 6) Family carer support and coping.

Discussion

These findings reflect the dynamic nature of dementia care which requires the adaptation of support in response to changing need. We witnessed the daily realities for families of implementing care recommendations in the community, which were often adapted for the contexts of family carers’ priorities for care of the person living with dementia and what they were able to provide. Realistic self-management plans which are deliverable in practice must consider the intersection of physical, cognitive and mental health needs and priorities, and family carers needs and resources.
Crowds and the Timing of Goals and Referee Decisions
Authors: Magee Christopher , Wolaver Amy
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates how crowds affect the timing of events during football matches. In theory, the presence of fans influences the urgency of the players on the field, and the magnitude of this effect grows during the match. Thus, crowds should lead to a faster increase during the match in goals scored, yellow cards, red cards, and penalty kicks. We test the hypothesis using a data set including pandemic ghost games and we find strong support for the hypothesis as it relates to goals, yellow cards, and penalty kicks but not as it relates to red cards.
Contextual and Policy Influences on the Implementation of Prenatal Care Coordination
Authors: Greene Madelyne Z. , Gillespie Kate H. , L. Dyer Rachel
Published: March 2023

Prenatal Care Coordination (PNCC) is a Medicaid fee-for-service that provides reimbursement for supportive services to mothers and infants at high risk of adverse outcomes. Services include health education, care coordination, referral to needed services, and social support. Currently, the implementation of PNCC programs is highly variable. We aimed to identify and describe the contextual factors that influence implementation of PNCC. Using a qualitative descriptive approach and theoretical reflexive thematic analysis techniques, we conducted observation and semistructured interviews with all PNCC staff at two PNCC sites in Wisconsin, representing diversity in region and patient population. We thematically analyzed interview data to examine how contextual factors influenced program implementation with the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research as a sensitizing model. Observational field notes were used to triangulate interview data. Overall, participants endorsed the goals of PNCC and believed in its potential. However, participants asserted that the external policy context limited their impact. In response, they developed local strategies to combat barriers and work toward better outcomes. Our findings support the need to study the implementation of perinatal public and community health interventions and consider “health in all policies.” Several changes would maximize PNCC's impact on maternal health: increased collaboration among policy stakeholders would reduce barriers; increased reimbursement would enable PNCC providers to better meet the complex needs of clients; and expansions in postpartum Medicaid coverage would extend the PNCC eligibility period. Nurses who provide PNCC have unique insights that should be leveraged to inform maternal–child health policy.
Real-world Efficacy Data on Anti-Angiogenic Drugs in Recurrent Small Cell Cervical Carcinoma: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Qiu Haifeng , Su Ning , Yan Shuping , Li Jing
Published: March 2023

Objective

Small cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCCC) is rare but extremely aggressive and resistant to current therapies. We herein evaluate the efficacy of bevacizumab, apatinib, and anlotinib in recurrent/metastatic SCCC patients in a real-world setting.

Methods

Recurrent/metastatic SCCC patients were recruited between January 2013 and July 2020. Baseline characteristics were extracted from medical records, and patients were divided into an anti-angiogenic group and non-anti-angiogenic group. The efficacy of treatments was determined using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 criteria. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed for survival analysis.

Results

Sixteen patients received anti-angiogenic drugs after tumor recurrence/metastasis; of them, 10 cases received them as first-line treatment, 5 cases as second-line treatment, and 1 case as fourth-line treatment. Another 23 patients received traditional therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. The use of anti-angiogenic drugs in first-line treatment significantly prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) compared to the controls, with a median PFS of 8 months (2-20 months) and 3 months (1-10 months), respectively ( P = .025). This trend was also notable in patients who started anti-angiogenic treatment after the second-line recurrence/metastasis. However, there was no benefits for overall survival (OS) in either the 10 first-line cases or all 16 cases ( P = .499 and .31, respectively). Both bevacizumab and small molecule drugs (apatinib and anlotinib) presented similar efficacy in SCCC patients.

Conclusions

At present, this is the largest cohort study that provides real-world data, showing that anti-angiogenic regimens could significantly prolong PFS in recurrent/metastatic SCCC. Aside from bevacizumab, the novel oral small molecule drugs provide more choices with similar efficacy. These findings warrant further validation in well-designed future studies.
Endovascular interventions for peripheral arterial disease in patients with pre-existing endovascular aortic repair utilizing mother-and-child sheath system
Authors: Mukherjee Dipankar , Rahmani Khashi , Paolucci Benjamin
Published: March 2023

Background

Peripheral interventions for Peripheral arterial occlusive disease involving the lower extremity vessels have been a challenge in patients who have undergone prior Endovascular Aneurysm repair.

Objective

To provide a solution to the above-mentioned challenge.

Research design

Practical use of existing articulating sheath and catheter and wires to achieve the objective.

Results

Successful accomplishment of objective.

Conclusion

Endovascular interventions for Peripheral arterial disease in patients with pre-existing Endovascular Aortic Repair utilizing mother-and-child sheath system have conferred success. This could be a useful technique in the armamentarium of the interventionist.
When social hierarchy meets hierarchical school culture: Implications for Chinese Hong Kong school leaders
Authors: Lee Daphnee Hui Lin
Published: March 2023

This article provides school leaders with insights into within and beyond-school influences on school collaborative culture. The study examines how social demographics, and school culture prevalent in different school bandings, influence school capacities (principalleadership; shared and supportive leadership; shared values and vision; and collaborative learning). A structural equation model is constructed from 10 Hong Kong schools’ survey data to trace the path influences of the study variables. The results show that hierarchical cultures tend to prevail in lower banding schools, affecting school collaborative culture negatively. In contrast, rule-seeking cultures have a positive influence on individuals with humbler childhood family upbringing. Likewise at the individual level, unlike most risk-takers found to negatively influence school collaborative culture, English childhood home language speakers’ risk-taking values do not have a significant influence on such school capacities. Nevertheless, rule-seeking and risk-taking teachers are as likely to be recruited in schools regardless of school banding. The results have global significance on how broader social hierarchy embeds in leadership relations differentiated by school banding, with an impact on school collaborative culture. School leaders may consider leveraging leadership relations and professional development to promote school cultures that enhance collaboration at different levels of the organizational hierarchy.
Chronic critical illness in critically ill COVID-19 patients
Authors: Halacli Burcin , Yildirim Mehmet , Kaya Esat Kivanc , Ulusoydan Ege , Ersoy Ebru Ortac , Topeli Arzu
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To evaluate the presence of chronic critical illness (CCI) in COVID-19 patients and compare clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with and without CCI admitted to intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

It was a retrospective, observational study at a university hospital ICU. Patients were accepted as CCI if they had prolonged ICU stay (≥14 days) and got ≥1 score for cardiovascular sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score and ≥2 score in other parameters on day 14 of ICU admission which was described as persistent organ dysfunction.

Results

131 of 397 (33%) patients met CCI criteria. CCI patients were older ( p = 0.003) and frailer ( p < 0.001). Their Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and SOFA scores were higher, PaO2/FiO2 ratio was lower ( p < 0.001). Requirement of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), steroid use, and septic shock on admission were higher in the CCI group ( p < 0.001). CCI patients had higher ICU and hospital mortality than other patients (54.2% vs. 19.9% and 55.7% vs. 22.6%, p < 0.001, respectively). Regression analysis revealed that IMV (OR: 8.40, [5.10–13.83], p < 0.001) and PaO2/FiO2 < 150 on admission (OR: 2.25, [1.36–3.71], p = 0.002) were independent predictors for CCI.

Discussion

One-third of the COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU were considered as CCI with significantly higher ICU and hospital mortality.
Estimation in a multicomponent stress-strength model for progressive censored lognormal distribution
Authors: Singh Kundan , Kumar Mahto Amulya , Mani Tripathi Yogesh , Wang Liang
Published: March 2023

We consider estimation of multicomponent stress-strength reliability under classical as well as Bayesian approaches when stress-strength components follow lognormal distributions and data are observed under progressive censoring. Various estimates are obtained by sequentially considering one parameter common and unknown. Different expressions for the reliability are evaluated under these cases. For both the cases, we obtain different estimates of considered parametric function using likelihood, Lindley and repeated sampling methods. Asymptotic and credible intervals are also obtained. Extensive simulations are conducted to examine the behavior of all estimates under various censoring schemes. We finally present analysis of a real life example from application purposes.
Accurate numerical integration of highly stiff pharmacokinetics models using continuous block implicit hybrid one-step collocation methods
Authors: Yakubu Gulibur Dauda , Abdulhameed Mohammed , Adamu Garba Tahiru , Kadas Saidu Abubakar , Tukur Suleiman Aminu
Published: March 2023

The differential equations of pharmacokinetic models, obtained from the formulation based on the Fick's perfusion principle and law of conservation of mass action, deals with absorption, distribution, and elimination of drugs by the body systems. In the formulation, the ordinary differential equations obtained may result into highly stiff systems whereby suitable implicit methods have to be employed to solve accurately drug concentration in the body systems, owing to the complex nature of the exact solutions, if they exist. Further, because of the large and increasing interest in the problems of drug kinetics, it is necessary to apply considerably accurate implicit numerical methods in evaluating and in applying them to specific cases. These solutions are to help determine the distribution of drug concentration in different compartments (parts) of the human body network systems as a fundamental step to help in understanding and improving treatments. This is necessary since drug concentration in each compartment is different from one another because of the differences in drug affinity to tissues. From the study, the solution curves obtained show that drug level in the gastrointestinal tract decreases with the passage of time, while drug concentration in the blood increases from zero and reaches its maximum level and then decreases steadily again. We further, compared the model curves with some experimental data plots published in scientific papers. The results obtained from the study can be used extensively for various drug diffusion problems arising in pharmaceutical studies. The presented results widen the applicability of the continuous block implicit hybrid one-step collocation methods to diffusion process which have good number of applications in the drug control, drug dosage and other related problems in pharmaceutical and biomedical industries.
Everything is in My Hands. Creative Subjectivities in Privileged Art School Students
Authors: Uboldi Anna
Published: March 2023

How do privileged young people engage in artistic fields? Are the arts classified and classifying for educational paths? To examine these questions, I propose observations and reflections from a study of secondary art schools in Italy. Artistic education has received focused but limited attention from sociology, as part of an increasing interest towards cultural labour. However, Italian artistic schools remain a neglected research theme. The proposed study on secondary art schools aims to examine certain early dynamics of creative fields in Milan.

This article interrogates the educational experiences of privileged students at art schools. The research is based on discursive interviews and focus groups with these students. Students’ class culture is investigated focusing on diverse scholastic dispositions and different outlooks on the future. The Bourdieusian notions of cultural capital and habitus allow certain dynamics of the aspiring young creatives’ process of self-formation to be examined. The analysis reveals privileged individuals who are ambitious, self-confident and with great forward-thinking skills, but who are also academically negligent. The trust in individual enterprise and success is deeply interiorised by interviewees. These neoliberal and entrepreneurial ideas are infused with moral, and often tacit, considerations on class boundaries. The analysis reveals some aspects of the symbolic boundary-making; dynamics in which a meritocratic ethos plays a key role in legitimating social divisions.
Short- and long-term follow-up after fecal microbiota transplantation as treatment for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: van Lingen Emilie (E.) , Baunwall Simon (S. M. D.) , Lieberknecht Simone (S. C.) , Benech Nicolas (N.) , Ianiro Gianluca (G.) , Sokol Harry (H.) , Gasbarrini Alessandro (A.) , Cammarota Giovanni (G.) , Eriksen Marcel (M. K.) , van der Meulen-de Jong Andrea (A. E.) , Terveer Elizabeth (E. M.) , Verspaget Hein (H. W.) , Vehreschild Maria (M.) , Hvas Christian (C. L.) , Keller Josbert (J. J.)
Published: March 2023

Background:

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at an increased risk of developing Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Treatment of CDI in patients with IBD is challenging due to higher failure rates and concomitant IBD activity.

Objectives:

We performed a multicentre cohort study in patients with IBD who received fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) for recurrent CDI (rCDI), to further investigate factors that influence the clinical outcome and course of both rCDI and IBD.

Design:

This is a multicentre cohort study conducted in five European FMT centres.

Methods:

Adult IBD patients treated with FMT for rCDI were studied. Cure was defined as clinical resolution of diarrhoea or diarrhoea with a negative C. difficile test. The definition of an IBD flare was record based. Long-term follow-up data were collected including new episodes of CDI, IBD flares, infections, hospital admissions, and death.

Results:

In total, 113 IBD patients underwent FMT because of rCDI. Mean age of the patients was 48 years; 64% had ulcerative colitis. Concomitant rCDI was associated with an IBD flare in 54%, of whom 63% had received IBD remission-induction therapy prior to FMT. All FMT procedures were preceded by vancomycin treatment, 40% of patients received FMT via colonoscopy. CDI cure rate was 71%. Long-term follow-up data were available in 90 patients with a median follow-up of 784 days (402–1251). IBD activity decreased in 39% of patients who had active IBD at baseline, whereas an IBD flare occurred in only 5%. During follow-up of up to 2 years, 27% of the patients had infections, 39% were hospitalized, 5% underwent colectomy, and 10% died (median age of these latter patients: 72 years).

Conclusion:

FMT for rCDI in IBD patients is safe and effective, and IBD exacerbation after FMT is infrequent. Further studies should investigate the effects on IBD course following FMT.
Emotional intelligence: Its place in infection prevention and control
Authors: Cole Mark
Published: March 2023

Background

The Infection Prevention Societies Competency Framework is a detailed tool that recognises the multi factorial work of Infection Prevention and Control Teams. This work often takes place in complex, chaotic and busy environments where non-compliance with policies, procedures and guidelines is endemic. As reductions in Healthcare Associated Infection became a health service priority the tone of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) became increasingly uncompromising and punitive. This can create conflict between IPC professionals and clinicians who may take a different view as to the reasons for sub optimum practice. If unresolved, this can create a tension that has a negative impact on working relationships and ultimately patient outcomes.

Concepts and Context

Emotional Intelligence, that ability to recognise, understand and manage our own emotions and recognise, understand and influence the emotions of others, is not something, hitherto, that has been headlined as an attribute for individuals working in IPC. Individuals with higher level of Emotional Intelligence show a greater capacity for learning, deal with pressure more effectively, communicate in interesting and assertive ways and recognise the strengths and weaknesses of others. Overall, the trend is that they are more productive and satisfied in the workplace.

Conclusion

Emotional Intelligence should be a much sought after trait in IPC as this will better equip a post holder to deliver challenging IPC programmes. When appointing to an IPC team, the candidates Emotional Intelligence should be considered and then developed through a process of education and reflection.
Orcinol Inhibits Melanogenesis in B16F10 Cells via the Upregulation of the MAPK/ERK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yu Chih-Li , Wu Hongtan , Chen Yu-Pei , Chen Fangfang , Wang Guey-Horng
Published: March 2023

Background: Orcinol (3,5-dihydroxytoluene) has been reported to demonstrate inhibitory activity against mushroom tyrosinase. This study aims to investigate the inhibitory effect of orcinol on melanogenesis and its mechanism in B16F10 murine melanoma cells. Methods: The effects of orcinol on melanogenesis were determined spectrophotometrically by the intracellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content. The expression of melanogenesis-related gene and signaling pathways was analyzed by Western blot and/or qRT-PCR analyses. Results: Orcinol reduced intracellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content and attenuated the protein expression and mRNA levels of melanogenesis-related genes, such as tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1, dopachrome tautomerase, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). Orcinol increased the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), which decreased MITF expression levels. Conclusion: Orcinol reduces melanogenesis by inhibiting MITF expression, then the ERK signaling pathway, and that orcinol has the potential to become a functional cosmetic compound for skin whitening.
Evaluation of a health system’s implementation of a monkeypox care model under the RE-AIM framework
Authors: Polk Christopher , Sampson Mindy , Fairman Robert T. , DeWitt Michael E. , Leonard Michael , Neelakanta Anupama , Davidson Lisa , Roshdy Danya , Branner Chris , McCurdy Lewis , Ludden Tom , Tapp Hazel , Passaretti Catherine
Published: March 2023

Objective:

Emerging infectious diseases challenge healthcare systems to implement new models of care. We aim to evaluate the rapid implementation of a new care model for monkeypox in our health system.

Design:

This is a retrospective case series evaluation under the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework of implementation of a testing and care model for monkeypox in a large, integrated health system.

Methods:

Atrium Health implemented education of providers, testing protocols, and management of potential monkeypox cases using electronic health record (EHR) data capabilities, telehealth, and collaboration between multiple disciplines. The first 4 weeks of care model implementation were evaluated under the RE-AIM framework.

Results:

One hundred fifty-three patients were tested for monkeypox by 117 unique providers at urgent care, emergency departments, and infectious disease clinics in our healthcare system between 18 July 2022 and 14 August 2022. Fifty-eight monkeypox cases were identified, compared with 198 cases in the state during the time period, a disproportionate number compared with the health system service area, and 52 patients were assessed for need for tecovirimat treatment. The number of tests performed and providers sending tests increased during the study period.

Conclusion:

Implementation of a dedicated care model leveraging EHR data support, telehealth, and cross-disciplinary collaboration led to more effective identification and management of emerging infectious diseases and is important for public health.

Plain Language Summary

Impact of care model implementation on monkeypox New infectious diseases challenge health systems to implement new care practices. Our health system responded to this challenge by implementing a care model for education, testing, and clinical care of monkeypox patients. We analyzed results from implementing the model. We were able to identify a disproportionate number of monkeypox cases compared with the rest of our state by using our model to educate medical providers, encourage testing, and ensure patients had access to best disease care. Implementation of care models for testing and management of new diseases will improve patient care and public health.
Physiotherapists’ experiences of internet-based neck-specific exercises for patients with chronic whiplash-associated disorders
Authors: Nilsing Strid Emma , Gustafson Frida , Peolsson Anneli , Hermansen Anna
Published: March 2023

Objective

Neck-specific exercises for individuals with chronic whiplash-associated disorders (WAD) have shown promising results, but there is also a need for more efficient and flexible ways of rehabilitation, such as use of digital health tools. Understanding physiotherapists’ experiences of an internet-based tool may help to improve digital tools within physiotherapy. The purpose of this study was to describe how physiotherapists’ experience an internet-based neck-specific exercise program for patients with chronic WAD.

Methods

This study has a qualitative design. Focus group discussions were held with physiotherapists who have been treating patients with chronic WAD, using an internet-based neck-specific exercises program in a randomized controlled multi-center trial in south and central Sweden. Three focus groups were held with three participants in each group. Phenomenography was applied as a research approach for data analysis.

Results

One main category was identified as “internet-based program as a complement to regular rehabilitation,” with five descriptive sub-categories: (a) support in patient work; (b) usefulness based on a patient's prerequisites and preferences; (c) physiotherapist and patient interaction; (d) increasing efficiency in rehabilitation; and (e) enabling patient participation, autonomy and self-management.

Conclusions

From a physiotherapy perspective, an internet-based program could work as a method of complementary support to the standard rehabilitation treatment for patients with chronic WAD, as long as it is interactive and adjustable to the individual. The internet-based program could lead to increased autonomy and self-efficacy, and save resources and time for physiotherapists and patients. Further, more research is needed to strengthen these digital tools within the healthcare system.
Efficacy of Virtual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on COVID-19 Pandemic Related Anxiety in a Middle Eastern Country: An Interventional Study
Authors: Renganathan Lakshmi , Ramasubramaniam Shanthi , Arulappan Judie , Al Balushi Siham Mahmood , Al Ghassani Amal , Vijayalakshmi G , Al Balushi Amal , Dhanraj Fabiola
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Emotional stress and anxiety during COVID-19 pandemic has gained a lot of attention. The capacity to withstand from the manipulated thinking and COVID-19 related stress and anxiety depends on the resilience level of an individual. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has patronizing benefits for people affected with altered mental health. Relieving COVID-19 related anxiety using CBT has beneficial impact on health and improves quality of life of people.

Objective

Aimed to relieve the anxiety of Omani population during COVID-19 pandemic using CBT.

Methods

This research utilized a pre-experimental one group pre-test post-test design. A non-probability convenient sampling technique was used to select 96 Omani people who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The pre-anxiety level was assessed using CAS (Corona virus Anxiety Scale). The participants who scored above nine in the scale were given three sessions of CBT. Post-anxiety level was assessed using CAS after three CBT sessions.

Results

The study revealed that the level of anxiety reduced during post-test (6.35) after intervention when compared to pre-test (13.22). The CBT intervention was effective in reducing the anxiety in the post-test at p ≤ .000.

Conclusion

CBT is effective in reducing COVID-19 related anxiety among the Omani population. Therefore, this strategy is highly recommended in people having mental health issues.
Gender Differences in Gastroparesis
Authors: Kassamali Farah , Lin Mimi S.
Published: March 2023

Delayed gastric emptying, known as gastroparesis, is a chronic disorder that disproportionately affects women over men. We reviewed studies focusing on female predominance of gastroparesis and various hypothesis for the development and presentation in such differences. Females are at a disadvantage for several factors, including physiologic delay at baseline, cyclic changes in sex hormones attributing to symptoms as well as dynamic results of gastric emptying tests, and interplay with nitric oxide dysfunction, linking it to functional gastrointestinal disorders, thus higher symptom severity, and a potential barrier to treatment response. Further studies need to be conducted to investigate gender differences in the development and presentation of gastroparesis, with the intent to develop and implement customized treatment for gender-specific variations in gastric delay.
Forbearance with endobronchial stenting: cognisance before conviction
Authors: Avasarala Sameer K. , Dutau Hervé , Mehta Atul C.
Published: March 2023

Endobronchial stenting is an important aspect of the practice of interventional pulmonology. The most common indication for stenting is the management of clinically significant airway stenosis. The list of endobronchial stents available on the market continues to grow. More recently, patient-specific 3D-printed airway stents have been approved for use. Airway stenting should be considered only when all other options have been exhausted. Due to the environment of the airways and the stent–airway wall interactions, stent-related complications are common. Although stents can be placed in various clinical scenarios, they should only be placed in scenarios with proven clinical benefit. The unwarranted placement of a stent can expose the patient to complications with little or no clinical benefit. This article reviews and outlines the key principles of endobronchial stenting and important clinical scenarios in which stenting should be avoided.
Patient-reported outcome measures for paediatric acute lower respiratory infection studies
Authors: Oakes Daniel B. , Baker Megan J. , McLeod Charlie , Nattabi Barbara , Blyth Christopher C.
Published: March 2023

Background

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are recommended for capturing meaningful outcomes in clinical trials. The use of PROMs for children with acute lower respiratory infections (ALRIs) has not been systematically reported. We aimed to identify and characterise patient-reported outcomes and PROMs used in paediatric ALRI studies and summarise their measurement properties.

Methods

Medline, Embase and Cochrane were searched (until April 2022). Studies that reported on patient-reported outcome (or measure) use or development and included subjects aged <18 years with ALRIs were included. Study, population and patient-reported outcome (or measure) characteristics were extracted.

Results

Of 2793 articles identified, 18 met inclusion criteria, including 12 PROMs. Two disease-specific PROMs were used in settings in which they had been validated. The Canadian Acute Respiratory Illness and Flu Scale was the most frequently used disease-specific PROM (five studies). The EuroQol-Five Dimensions-Youth system was the most frequently used generic PROM (two studies). There was considerable heterogeneity in validation methods. The outcome measures identified in this review lack validation for young children and none involve sufficient content validity for use with First Nations children.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need for PROM development that considers the populations in which the burden of ALRI predominates.