bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the list and at the well: Finding encouragement in Christ’s acknowledgment and ministry
Authors: Boberg Sarah
Published: September 2023

This narrative is a personal account of the author’s experience as a called woman minister and her being included on Mike Law’s recent list in support of a Constitutional Amendment for the SBC not to “affirm, appoint, or employ a woman as pastor of any kind.” Using the text of John 4, the author identifies the encouragement the Samaritan woman found in Christ’s acknowledgment of her and in sending her as a witness and how the Samaritan woman’s experience connects to the author’s own experience of encouragement found in her call and ministry.
“Court Can Happen Anywhere”: Courtroom Workgroup Members’ Perceptions of the Challenges and Opportunities of a Transformed Workplace
Authors: Webster Elizabeth , Huebner Beth m. , Early Alessandra Milagros , Torres Luis C.
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has initiated lasting changes in a traditionally staid and inert court system. This study employs a courtroom communities perspective to examine how courtroom workgroup members perceived COVID-19’s impact on their work, their workgroup relationships, and the future of criminal court procedures. It analyzes data from semi-structured interviews with 22 prosecutors, 17 defense attorneys, and 10 judges in Milwaukee, WI, and St. Louis, MO. We find that moving to virtual proceedings limited opportunities for informal interaction. The immediate impact was to upend the courtroom communities’ familiarity, proximity, and stability with implications for plea negotiations and case resolution. Nevertheless, most participants supported using virtual proceedings for certain types of court hearings. Public defenders were more likely than prosecutors, judges, or private defense attorneys to express concerns about technological difficulties for defendants. We conclude by discussing policy and practice implications and identifying areas for future research.
Excessive Postoperative Nasal Bleeding Following Septoplasty Caused by a Branch of the Middle Meningeal Artery
Authors: Kang Sun Seong , Kim Eui-Jong , Min Jin-Young , Kim Jisun , Doo Jeon Gang
Published: September 2023

Septoplasty is a widely performed procedure globally to correct a deviated nasal septum and improve nasal breathing. Life-threatening nasal bleeding as a complication of septoplasty has been reported in a few cases in the literature. In cases of massive postoperative nasal bleeding, transarterial embolization using angiography was performed for the treatment. This article documents 1 case of excessive postoperative nasal bleeding following an uneventful septoplasty, which was successfully treated with embolization of the frontal branch of the middle meningeal artery. This case represents an extremely rare occurrence, and we present it in conjunction with a literature review.
Conceptual Replication of Parental Influences on the Academic Motivation of Gifted Students: A Self-Determination Theory Perspective
Authors: Matthews Michael S. , Wylie Olivia , Styles Amanda
Published: September 2023

Despite the strong influence parenting plays in every aspect of child development, there has been relatively little research focused on how parents influence the academic motivation of their high-ability or gifted child in the home setting. The current study details a conceptual replication of one widely cited study on this topic conducted by Garn et al. (2010). We used an exploratory qualitative design to analyze interview responses gathered from 14 parents (mothers of 22 gifted students) using a content analysis approach within the theoretical framework offered by the Self-Determination Theory taxonomy of motivation developed by Deci and Ryan. Our independent analysis grouped the content of parent responses into four themes that are consistent with those reported in the original study by Garn et al.
Populist radical right-wing parties and the assault on political correctness: The impact of Vox in Spain
Authors: Galais Carol , Pérez-Rajó Juan
Published: September 2023

The significant rise in the number of populist radical right (PRR) parties has not been accompanied by a parallel interest in the consequences that these parties may have on public opinion. The limited range of attitudes that the literature has considered so far can be broadened to include political correctness (PC), given the increasing attacks on this concept made by PRR parties. To address the effects of such attacks, we examine the Spanish case, where the presence of a new PRR party makes anti-PC messages a recent, quite exogenous stimulus. Using panel data to address potential non-recursive relationships and time-variant effects, we find that individuals are indeed more prone to lowering their levels of PC after finding Vox an attractive electoral option. Our results inform the debates on the effects that ‘cultural wars’, anti-woke and anti-PC rhetorics may have on public opinion, which could lead ultimately to harmful consequences for minority groups and social cohesion.
Effect of music education based on Edwin E. Gordon’s Theory on children’s developmental music aptitude and social emotional learning skills
Authors: Çenberci Senim , Tufan Enver
Published: September 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of music education based on Music Learning Theory (MLT) on children’s developmental music aptitude (DMA) and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) skills. For this purpose, an experimental procedure planned as 16 lessons was applied to primary school first-grade students ( n = 92) aged between 6 and 7. The experimental group received music education based on MLT, and the control group received music education following the current curriculum in Turkey. Also, SEL objectives were integrated into MLT lessons. DMA was measured with the Primary Measures of Music Audiation test, and SEL skills were measured with Social Emotional Assets and Resilience Scale-Teacher Form-Turkish. In the musical dimension of the study, although the difference was not statistically significant, it can be said that the increase in the tonal, rhythmic, and composite scores of the experimental group are higher than the control groups’ scores and noteworthy for a short-term experiment. As for the SEL dimension of the study, the total SEL skills of the experimental group showed statistically significant improvement. These results suggest that music education in this direction can create opportunities and an effective learning environment for acquiring SEL skills; however further research is needed, particularly over a longer instructional period.
Artificial intelligence in developing countries: The impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for development
Authors: Mannuru Nishith Reddy , Shahriar Sakib , Teel Zoë A , Wang Ting , Lund Brady D , Tijani Solomon , Pohboon Chalermchai Oak , Agbaji Daniel , Alhassan Joy , Galley JaKLyn , Kousari Raana , Ogbadu-Oladapo Lydia , Saurav Shubham Kumar , Srivastava Aishwarya , Tummuru Sai Priya , Uppala Sravya , Vaidya Praveenkumar
Published: September 2023

This paper explores the potential impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Generative AI) on developing countries, considering both positive and negative effects across various domains of information, culture, and industry. Generative Artificial Intelligence refers to artificial intelligence (AI) systems that generate content, such as text, audio, or video, aiming to produce novel and creative outputs based on training data. Compared to conversational artificial intelligence, generative artificial intelligence systems have the unique capability of not only providing replies but also generating the content of those responses. Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence during the Fourth Industrial Revolution, exemplified by tools like ChatGPT, have gained popularity and reshaped content production and creation. However, the benefits of generative artificial intelligence are not equally accessible to all, especially in developing countries, where limited access to cutting-edge technologies and inadequate infrastructure pose challenges. This paper seeks to understand the potential impact of generative AI technologies on developing countries, considering economic growth, access to technology, and the potential paradigm shift in education, healthcare, and the environment. The findings emphasize the importance of providing the necessary support and infrastructure to ensure that generative AI contributes to inclusive development rather than deepening existing inequalities. The study highlights the significance of integrating Generative AI into the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution in developing countries, where technological change is a crucial determinant of progress and equitable growth.
Ambulatory extracorporeal membrane oxygenation simulator: The next frontier in clinical training
Authors: Sayed Aya N. , Noorizadeh Mohammad , Alhomsi Yahya , Bensaali Faycal , Meskin Nader , Ait Hssain Ali
Published: September 2023

Background

Current medical simulators for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are expensive and rely on low-fidelity methodologies. This creates a challenge that demands a new approach to eliminate high costs and integrate with critical care environments, especially in light of the scarce resources and supplies available after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

To address this challenge, we examined the current state-of-the-art medical simulators and collaborated closely with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), the primary healthcare provider in Qatar, to establish criteria for advancing the cutting-edge ECMO simulation. This article presents a comprehensive ambulatory high-realism and cost-effective ECMO simulator.

Results

Over the past 3 years, we have surveyed relevant literature, gathered data, and continuously developed a prototype of the system modules and the accompanying tablet application. By doing so, we have successfully addressed the issue of cost and fidelity in ECMO simulation, providing an effective tool for medical professionals to improve their understanding and treatment of patients requiring ECMO support.

Conclusions

This paper will focus on presenting an overall ambulatory ECMO simulator, detailing the various sub-systems and emphasizing the modular casing of the physical components and the simulated patient monitor.
Clinical observations in treatment of lower extremity varicose veins with trigger points acupuncture
Authors: Liu Lin , Wu Zong-Hui , Huang Qiang-Min , Liu Qing-Guang , Wang Li-Na , Jin Xiao-Hong
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To observe the effect of the acupuncture of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in the treatment of lower extremity varicose veins (LEVVs).

Methods

Overall, 260 patients with LEVVs participated in this study. LEVVs were selected based on diagnostic criteria of Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology levels 2–5 and classified into six types on the basis of their anatomical positions. The MTrPs in the lower extremities were localized in accordance with the classification of LEVVs and treated by MTrPs acupuncture combined with self-massage and self-stretching. The interval between each treatment was 2 weeks to 1 month, depending on needling pain tolerance of each patient. An in-house evaluation was used to estimate the proportion of varicose veins in the lower limbs and their accompanying symptoms. The treatment effect was evaluated before each treatment and at 1-year follow-up.

Results

The mean evaluation score of LEVVs before the treatment course was 3.66 ± 1.19. After the course, this reduced to 1.18 ± 0.97, with the following response rates: 85% for excellent and good and 15% for medium. After 1-year follow-up, the mean evaluation score of all patients was 1.11 ± 0.92, with the following response rates: 87% for excellent and good, and 13% for medium.

Conclusions

In some patients, MTrP acupuncture could cure LEVVs and its accompanying symptoms. These LEVVs are probably caused by fascia tension as a pre-pathology induced by the MTrPs.
Characteristics and post-operative outcomes of surgery for fistula-in-ano managed at a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka: a retrospective study
Authors: Shivakumar Vinoprasath , Jayarajah Umesh , Samarasekera Dharmabandhu Nandadeva
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Management of fistula-in-ano is associated with recurrence and, occasionally, with anal incontinence. We investigated the clinical characteristics and outcomes of fistula-in-ano.

Methods

We included patients with fistula-in-ano managed at a tertiary care center (2016–2021). We collected clinical characteristics and 1-year outcomes using questionnaires. The chi-square test was used in statistical analysis.

Results

In total, 284 patients (231 men, 81.3%; median age 39.5 [range: 7–73] years) were included. Most patients had simple fistulae (n = 191, 67.3%). Transphincteric (n = 110, 38.7%) fistulae were the most common type, followed by intersphinteric fistulae (n = 103, 36.6%). Fistulotomy (n = 157, 55.3%) was the most common procedure. Follow-up details were traceable in 157 (55.3%) patients. At 1 year, the overall healing rate was 88.5% (n = 136). There was no association between type of surgical procedure and incontinence. The mean Vaizey score, used to assess anal incontinence, was 0.84 (range: 0–14). Incontinence was observed in 32 patients (20.9%), and flatus incontinence was the most common type (n = 17, 53.1%). Complex fistulae were associated with higher recurrence rates than simple fistulae (32.6% vs. 2.8%).

Conclusion

The healing rate in surgical treatment of fistula-in-ano was 88.5%, with acceptable complication rates. There was no association between surgical procedure type and incontinence.
A Microsimulation of Well-Being and Literacy Interventions to Reduce Scam Susceptibility in Older Adults
Authors: Sur Aparajita , DeLiema Marguerite , Vock David M. , Boyle Patricia , Yu Lei
Published: September 2023

Poor financial and health literacy and poor psychological well-being are significant correlates of scam susceptibility in older adults; yet, no research has examined whether interventions that target these factors may effectively reduce susceptibility. Using longitudinal data from older adults in the Rush Memory and Aging Project (MAP) ( N = 1,231), we used microsimulations to estimate the causal effect of hypothetical well-being and literacy interventions on scam susceptibility over six years. Microsimulations can simulate a randomized trial to estimate intervention effects using observational data. We simulated hypotheticalinterventions that improved well-being or literacy scores by either 10% or 30% from baseline, or to the maximum scores, for an older adult population and for income and education subgroups. Simulations suggest thathypotheticalinterventions that increase well-being or literacy cause statistically significant reductions in scam susceptibility of older adults over time, but improving well-being caused a greater—albeit not significantly different—reduction compared to improving literacy.
The “populist imbecile” versus the “heartless shrew”: Polarizing election coverage and voters’ evaluation in Taiwan
Authors: Wu H. Denis , Huang Shuling , Ping Yu Rebecca , Zhang Yiyan
Published: September 2023

This study content analyzes the news coverage of two major presidential candidates—one populist challenger, the other female incumbent—in the 2020 Taiwan election. A nation-wide survey of voters and their newspaper uses was also utilized to verify the association between partisan news reliance and candidate evaluations. Based on the concept of partisan press, the study confirms that the coverage is highly polarizing and that it includes more horse race analysis than discussion of serious issues. Sexist and misogynistic terms were used more often by party-opponent (Blue-camp) newspapers to describe the female incumbent. The male populist candidate was portrayed more often in a personal fashion than the female candidate. The voters’ primary newspaper uses were found to be positively associated with their candidate evaluations and preferences. The study sheds new light on populist vis-à-vis gendered election coverage in the context of an Asian democracy.
Probucol neuroprotection against manganese-induced damage in adult Wistar rat brain slices
Authors: Del Rio Naiz Sarah Camboim , Varela Karina Giacomini , de Carvalho Diego , Remor Aline Pertile
Published: September 2023

Manganese (Mn) is an abundant element used for commercial purposes and is essential for the proper function of biological systems. Chronic exposure to high Mn concentrations causes Manganism, a Parkinson's-like neurological disorder. The pathophysiological mechanism of Manganism remains unknown; however, it involves mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. This study assessed the neuroprotective effect of probucol, a hypolipidemic agent with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, on cell viability and oxidative stress in slices of the cerebral cortex and striatum from adult male Wistar rats. Brain structure slices were kept separately and incubated with manganese chloride (MnCl2) and probucol to evaluate the cell viability and oxidative parameters. Probucol prevented Mn toxicity in the cerebral cortex and striatum, as evidenced by the preservation of cell viability observed with probucol (10 and 30 μM) pre-treatment, as well as the prevention of mitochondrial complex I inhibition in the striatum (30 μM). These findings support the protective antioxidant action of probucol, attributed to its ability to prevent cell death and mitigate Mn-induced mitochondrial dysfunction.
Unraveling the Complex Interactions of Psychological Factors Contributing to Cyber Reactive Aggression Among College Students: Network and Mediation Analyses
Authors: Ding Jin-Liang , Wu Yu-Wei , Yan Wen-Jing
Published: September 2023

Cyber reactive aggression (CRA) among college students is a prevalent and harmful phenomenon. Psychological characteristics, such as trait anger (TA), hostile attribution bias (HAB), and revenge motivation (RM), are known to contribute to reactive aggression. However, the interactions between these factors in the context of cyberspace and their contribution to CRA among college students have not been extensively studied. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the associations among psychological characteristics, demographic factors, and CRA among Chinese college students through Mixed Graphical Model (MGM) network and mediation effect analyses. A total of 926 participants completed questionnaires assessing TA, HAB, RM, and CRA. The study found both direct and indirect relationships between TA and CRA, with HAB and RM serving as mediating factors. Comparisons indicated that HAB had a more significant impact on the three indirect effects than RM. Furthermore, gender was found to be associated with TA and CRA, while the left-behind experience strongly influenced HAB but had no association with other variables. This study highlights the importance of considering psychological characteristics and demographic factors in understanding CRA among college students, suggesting that effective psychological interventions, such as anger management, and promoting positive attribution training, may help reduce CRA among college students and inform the development of targeted interventions to reduce cyber aggression.
Counteracting Stigma-Power: An Ethnographic Case Study of an Independent Community Food Hub
Authors: Brennan-Tovey Kerry , Board Elisabeth M. , Fulton John
Published: September 2023

The need for emergency food aid is increasing across the United Kingdom (UK). Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, an estimated 2.5% of UK households accessed food banks. As of June 2022, 15% of households were using food banks, and emerging evidence suggested increased stigma, shame and embarrassment associated with food aid use, food poverty, and food insecurity. This ethnographic study explored food aid user experiences of stigma-power, and antistigma strategies utilized by both food aid users and volunteers, at one North East of England Independent Community Food Hub (ICFH) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings revealed that stigma-power and the negative dominant narrative adversely affected food aid users, who created stigma avoidance techniques to reduce the perceived stigma of food bank usage. Findings also showed ways in which the ICFH implemented numerous antistigma strategies to reduce the stigma, shame, and embarrassment felt by food aid users.
Research on an ankle rehabilitation robot for hemiplegic patients after stroke
Authors: Sun Zhengdi , Mu Anle , Wang Chunbao , Liu Quanquan , Hao Fuxiang , Wei Jianjun , Li Wei
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes an ankle rehabilitation robot to assist hemiplegic patients with movement training. The robot consists of two symmetric mechanisms, allowing stroke survivors to execute ankle rehabilitation training based on physiological differences. LPMS-B sensors measure the range of movement (ROM) of the human ankle joint, and the results are used for control parameters of the robot. Control strategies for constant speed training mode, constant torque training mode, and combination training mode are put forth based on the hardware system of the robot. Experiments verify the feasibility of the robot for ankle rehabilitation training. Results show a maximum mean error of 0.3364° between the trajectory of the intact side and the affected side, a maximum mean error of 0.0335°/s between target speed and experimental speed, and a maximum mean error of 0.0775 N m between target torque and experimental torque. The ankle joint rehabilitation robot proposed in this paper can help patients complete the training well under the three control modes.
Low disease activity state associated with fewer incident vertebral fractures in Mestizo women with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mendoza-Pinto Claudia , Etchegaray-Morales Ivet , Munguía-Realpozo Pamela , Osorio-Peña Ángel David , Méndez-Martínez Socorro , Ramírez-Lara Edith , Zárate-Arellano Diana , Solis-Poblano Juan Carlos , Ayón-Aguilar Jorge , García-Carrasco Mario
Published: September 2023

Background

Low disease activity state (LDAS) has been linked to a significant reduction in flares and damage accrual in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); however, the effect of LDAS on the risk of vertebral fractures (VFs) in subjects with SLE is unknown, considering that low bone mineral density (BMD) and VF are frequent in SLE.

Objective

to evaluate whether achieving LDAS ≥50% of the observation time prevents new VF and BMD changes in Mestizo women.

Methods

We carried out a longitudinal, observational, and retrospective study. Mestizo women with SLE were included for a median of an 8-year follow-up. LDAS was described as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) score ≤4, prednisone ≤7.5 mg/day, and stable immunosuppressive therapies. BMD measurements and lateral thoracic and lumbar radiographs for a semiquantitative analysis for VF were assessed at baseline and during the follow-up. Uni- and multivariable interval-censored survival regression models were carried out.

Results

We included 110 patients: 35 (31.8%) had new VF. A total of 56 patients (50.1%) achieved LDAS ≥50% of the time during the follow-up and achieved a significantly lesser risk of incident VF (HR = 0.16; 95% CI, 0.06–0.49). After adjusting by age, BMI, menopause, prevalent VF, baseline BMD, cumulative glucocorticoid use, and anti-osteoporotic therapy, LDAS-50 was significantly related to a decrease in the risk of a new VF (HR = 0.39; 95% CI, 0.16–0.98). There was no association between LDAS and BMD measurement changes. When only patients on LDAS but not in remission ( n = 43) were evaluated for the risk of incident VF, both uni- and multivariate analyses were significant (HR = 0.12; 95 CI, 0.04–47; p = 0.001, and HR = 0.26; 95% CI, 0.7–0.88; p = 0.03).

Conclusions

LDAS ≥50% of the time was significantly associated with a diminished risk of new VF in Mestizo women with SLE, even in patients not in remission. However, LDAS did not help modify BMD changes over time.
Development and Validation of Oro-Motor Sensory Training Module for Feeding Problems in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Nivetha S , Geetha Arya , Ulaghanathan Navitha
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

To develop and validate an oro-motor/sensory training module for addressing feeding challenges in preschool-aged children with autism spectrum disorder.

Method:

The present qualitative study was carried out in three phases: conceptualization, development, and validation of the oro-motor sensory training module. A total of 30 participants (15 speech language pathologists [SLPs] and 15 occupational therapists) treating children with autism spectrum disorders with a minimum of 5 years of experience validated the developed module. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done to see the reliability of the validation.

Results:

The overall rating of both groups of validators showed excellent reliability. Positive feedback was obtained for the module from the validators.

Conclusion:

The module can be a resource for SLPs and other professionals.
Police Decisions in a Rape Scenario: The Effect of Trauma Response, Forensic Evidence, Stranger–Perpetrators, and Rape Mythology
Authors: Franklin Cortney A. , Bouffard Leana A. , Goodson Amanda , Garza Alondra D.
Published: September 2023

This study examined the direct effect of “classic rape” characteristics, and how they were moderated by rape myth endorsement, on the likelihood of arrest, perceived district attorney charge acceptance, and perceived suspect conviction using a formal rape disclosure among a sample of 468 police participants from a sizeable municipal law enforcement agency in one of the fifth largest and most diverse U.S. cities. A randomly assigned, between-subjects factorial vignette design was employed. Manipulations included stereotypical trauma response, forensic medical exam, and perpetrator type. Path modeling revealed statistically significant relations between stereotypical trauma response, forensic medical exam, perpetrator type, and the three outcome variables. Rape myth endorsement moderated the effect of manipulations on the dependent variables. Implications for research and policy are discussed.
Improving Blood Donor Retention and Donor Relationships with Past Donation Use Appeals
Authors: Shehu Edlira , Veseli Besarta , Clement Michel , Winterich Karen Page
Published: September 2023

Blood donation services seek new strategies to improve donor relationships and increase donor retention. In this study, we propose a novel strategy that employs appeals with feedback on the use of blood donors’ past donations. We theorize that this feedback increases the perceived relationship investment and, subsequently, the quality of the relationship with the blood donation service, thereby increasing redonations. An online experiment shows the positive effect of past donation use appeals on donation intention and transmission through perceived relationship investment and relationship quality. Three field studies with Red Cross Blood Donation Services confirm the effectiveness of past donation use appeals on redonation behavior compared with thank-you appeals and with a future donation use appeal. Past donation use appeals are effective for retention purposes, especially for more experienced donors and when sent shortly after the donation. Such appeals also lead to higher reactivation rates of inactive donors. In addition to having practical implications, the study contributes to the relationship and nonprofit service literature.
Telehealth access, willingness, and barriers during the COVID-19 pandemic among a nationally representative diverse sample of U.S. adults with and without chronic health conditions
Authors: Le Randy , Mendez Izabelle , Ponce Stephanie A , Green Alexis , El-Toukhy Sherine , Nápoles Anna M , Strassle Paula D
Published: September 2023

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services represented a critical tool in maintaining continuity and access to care for adults in the USA. However, despite improvements in access and utilization during the pandemic, disparities in telehealth utilization have persisted. It is unclear what role access and willingness to use telehealth play in telehealth disparities.

Methods

We used data from the nationally representative COVID-19's Unequal Racial Burden (CURB) survey, an online survey conducted between December 2020 and February 2021, n = 5500. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to estimate the prevalence of perceived telehealth access and willingness to use telehealth services among adults with and without chronic conditions.

Results

Overall, 60.1% of adults with and 38.7% of adults without chronic conditions reported having access to telehealth. After adjustment, adults with chronic conditions were more likely to report telehealth access (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.21–1.50). Most adults with and without chronic conditions reported being willing to use telehealth services (85.1% and 79.8%, respectively), and no significant differences in willingness were observed across chronic condition status (aPR = 1.03, 95% CI = 0.95–1.13). Perceived telehealth access appeared to be a predictor of telehealth willingness in both groups (chronic conditions: aPR = 1.22, 95% CI = 0.97–1.54; no chronic conditions: aPR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.22–1.54). The prevalence of perceived barriers to telehealth was low, with the majority reporting no barriers (chronic conditions = 51.4%; no chronic conditions = 61.4%).

Discussion

Perceived access to telehealth was associated with telehealth willingness. Investing in approaches that increase telehealth accessibility and awareness is needed to improve access to telehealth for adults with and without chronic conditions.
Overview of recent cases before the European Court of Human Rights (January – May 2023) and the European Committee of Social Rights (September 2022 – May 2023)
Authors: De Becker Eleni
Published: September 2023

In this case law report (January 2023 – May 2023) three cases before the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and two cases (September 2022 – May 2023) before the European Committee of Social Rights (ECSR) will be discussed. 1 The first two cases before the ECtHR are discussed together, as they tackle the partial annulment by the Spanish Constitutional Court of the legislation on survivor's pensions. The judgment imposed the same conditions for accessing a survivor's pension for partners in a civil partnership all over Spain. In both cases, the ECtHR ruled that Spain breached Article 1 Additional Protocol European Convention on Human Rights (AP ECHR). The third case that will be discussed also concerns a survivor's pension. In Bosiljevac v. Croatia, the ECHR found a violation of the right to a fair trial in Article 6 ECHR. The case concerns the expert reports used in administrative proceedings in which the applicant sought, on account of his medical condition, to be granted a survivor's pension following the death of this father. Lastly, two cases before the ECSR will be presented. Panhellenic Association of Pensioners of the OTE Group Telecommunications v. Greece concerns a series of pension reforms introduced in Greece. The ECSR did not hold in favour of the applicant, who argued that those reforms violated, inter alia, the right to social security in Article 12 of the Revised European Social Charter (ESC). The last case ( Finnish Society of Social Rights v. Finland) concerns the minimum level of several social security and social assistance benefits in Finland. The ECSR agreed with the applicant and held that the benefits granted were inadequate and violated the right to social security and the right to social assistance in Article 12, § 1 and Article 13, § 1 ESC.
Evaluating the dynamic thermal sensitivities of human body with high-dense contacting thermal stimuli
Authors: Zhou Yijia , Luo Maohui , Yu Hang , Zhou Xiang
Published: September 2023

Existing research have explored thermal sensitivity under steady thermal conditions while how it changes with time is unknown. In this study, the arm and face were taken as examples to study dynamic characteristics of thermal sensitivity. The test spots were stimulated under thermally neutral ambient conditions to obtain skin temperature and thermal sensation at three levels (e.g. the micro-scale (1.54 cm2) spot, local body part and whole body) at intervals of 4 s. Results showed that in the first 4 s of stimuli, skin temperature change would reach 52% of the final variation. The overshooting rate of the arm thermal sensitivity was 1.6 and 1.8 times over the stable state for cooling and heating stimuli, and that of the face was 1.9 and 2.0 times. 95% of subjects on the arm and 85% on the face were more sensitive to cooling stimuli. The warmth sensitivities of different genders and body parts were shown to be significantly different, while the cold sensitivity of different body parts produced small differences. When stimulating one test spot, the ratio of thermal sensation at three levels was 15:4:1 on the arm and 16:3:1 on the face. These results can help to understand how the body responds to spatially ununiform and temporally unsteady thermal exposures.
Risk of appendiceal malignancy in conservatively treated acute appendicitis
Authors: Ramadan Shaima , Buchwald Pamela , Olsson Åsa
Published: September 2023

Background and aims:

Appendectomy has historically been the standard treatment of acute appendicitis, but lately, conservative treatment of uncomplicated acute appendicitis with antibiotics has successfully been used in selected patients. Complicated acute appendicitis is often treated conservatively initially, but may benefit from interval appendectomy due to the higher risk of appendiceal malignancy and recurrence. Recommendations for follow-up after conservatively treated appendicitis vary. Furthermore, the risk of underlying malignancy and the necessity of routine interval appendectomy are unclear. This study aims to evaluate follow-up status, recurrence, and underlying appendiceal malignancy in conservatively treated uncomplicated and complicated acute appendicitis.

Methods:

This study included patients with conservatively treated acute appendicitis at Skåne University Hospital, Sweden during 2012–2019. Information on patient demographics at index admission and data on follow-up, recurrence, number of appendectomies after initial conservative treatment, and underlying malignancy were retrieved from medical charts.

Results:

The study cohort included 391 patients, 152 with uncomplicated and 239 with complicated acute appendicitis. Median time of study follow-up was 52 months. The recurrence risk was 23 (15.1%) after uncomplicated and 58 (24.3%) after complicated acute appendicitis ( p = 0.030). During follow-up, 55 (23%) patients with complicated acute appendicitis underwent appendectomy. Appendiceal malignancies were found in 12 (5%) patients with previous complicated acute appendicitis versus no appendiceal malignancies after uncomplicated acute appendicitis ( p = 0.002).

Conclusion:

The risk of appendiceal malignancy and recurrent appendicitis was significantly higher in patients with complicated acute appendicitis compared with uncomplicated acute appendicitis.
Lyso-phosphatidylethanol detected by LC-MS/MS as a potential new marker for alcohol consumption
Authors: Bantle Matthias , van Tieghem Lanya , Weinmann Wolfgang , Luginbühl Marc
Published: September 2023

Alcohol biomarkers are able to reflect the degree of recent or long-term alcohol consumption, covering different windows of detection. Phosphatidylethanols (PEths) are an emerging group of direct alcohol biomarkers that are widely applied in clinical and forensic applications. Their quantification can provide insight into an individual's drinking behaviour. Here, we present a new sub-class of yet unknown PEth species, LysoPEths, which are structurally related to PEth, but miss one fatty acyl chain. LysoPEths can be either a degradation product of PEth or a product of transesterification of lyso-phosphatidylcholine (LysoPC) with ethanol. To set up an analytical method, LysoPEth 16:0 was synthesised from PC 16:0/18:1 and characterised by LC-MS/MS, using an enzymatic method: phospholipase D (PLD), followed by phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Then, an LC-MS/MS method in MRM mode for LysoPEth 16:0 with additional LysoPEth species (LysoPEth 18:1, LysoPEth 18:2, and LysoPEth 20:4) and PEth 16:0/20:4 was developed. By incubation of freshly sampled venous blood of a teetotaller with ethanol at different concentrations, the formation of LysoPEth in parallel to PEth was investigated. With increasing ethanol concentrations, LysoPEth 16:0 was formed besides the known PEth species (PEth 16:0/18:1, PEth 16:0/18:2) for up to 72 h with LysoPEth concentrations being about three times lower than PEth concentrations. Storage of ethanol-free PEth-positive blood of an alcohol consumer at 37 °C showed that LysoPEth 16:0 concentrations increased, while PEth 16:0/18:1 concentrations decreased in the first 24 h for frozen/thawed blood, however not for freshly collected blood. Furthermore, LysoPEth 16:0 was detected in venous as well as lyophilised blood from clinical and forensic case work alongside with PEth 16:0/18:1, 16:0/18:2, and other PEth and LysoPEth species (PEth 16:0/20:4, LysoPEth 18:1, LysoPEth 18:2, and LysoPEth 20:4). LysoPEth 16:0 concentrations were found to be in linear correlation with PEth 16:0/18:1 (r2 = 0.75).
Enhancing child safety and well-being in the northern territory: Bridging gaps in support services and strengthening community engagement
Authors: Reynolds Ashlee , Roche Steven , Piatkowski Timothy
Published: September 2023

This article reports on a study that provides insights into the challenges faced by practitioners in the Northern Territory (NT) who support families in enhancing child safety and well-being, particularly for children at risk of or exposed to domestic or family violence. Despite increased funding for programs aimed at improving children's safety and well-being, reports and substantiations of child maltreatment in the NT continue to escalate. Interviews with twelve participants from various organizations involved in child protection services, family support services, and residential care shed light on the existing gaps in support services, including limited resources for families escaping domestic violence and inadequate assistance for children transitioning from out-of-home care. The findings emphasize the need for early intervention services targeted at families displaying risk factors for child maltreatment. Additionally, community consultation is crucial for the design and implementation of support programs that align with the unique needs of communities, including the necessity of maintaining connections to community, culture, and family to address concerns related to meeting basic needs. The study calls for a comprehensive approach that integrates community input, cultural safety, and tailored support programs to bridge these gaps and facilitate lasting positive changes. By addressing these challenges, there is a potential to mitigate child maltreatment and improve the well-being of children and families in the NT, contributing to the overall welfare of the community.
Part-Time Mothering: A Poetic Autoethnography of a Precariously Employed Academic’s Mothering Experiences
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sumangali
Published: September 2023

While studies have explored the experiences of motherhood among female academics, the experiences of motherhood among precariously employed academics have not received adequate attention. This autoethnographic inquiry uses poetry to embody my experiences of mothering, in the context of my emotional journey and my subjectivities as a precariously employed academic in a premier higher educational institution in India. From a critical feminist standpoint, the poem explores the experiences through known metaphors including the leaky pipeline of academia, work–life imbalance in the ivory tower, and the sense of being on the hamster wheel. This work is a critical inquiry voicing the everyday realities of precariously employed academics mothering their children. It delves into how the nature of their work status influences their inner turmoil, decisions, and actions vis-à-vis motherhood. It also attempts to demonstrate and raise consciousness about how the private (motherhood) and the public (work) interact.
Application of Deep Learning in Cancer Prognosis Prediction Model
Authors: Zhang Heng , Xi Qianyi , Zhang Fan , Li Qixuan , Jiao Zhuqing , Ni Xinye
Published: September 2023

As an important branch of artificial intelligence and machine learning, deep learning (DL) has been widely used in various aspects of cancer auxiliary diagnosis, among which cancer prognosis is the most important part. High-accuracy cancer prognosis is beneficial to the clinical management of patients with cancer. Compared with other methods, DL models can significantly improve the accuracy of prediction. Therefore, this article is a systematic review of the latest research on DL in cancer prognosis prediction. First, the data type, construction process, and performance evaluation index of the DL model are introduced in detail. Then, the current mainstream baseline DL cancer prognosis prediction models, namely, deep neural networks, convolutional neural networks, deep belief networks, deep residual networks, and vision transformers, including network architectures, the latest application in cancer prognosis, and their respective characteristics, are discussed. Next, some key factors that affect the predictive performance of the model and common performance enhancement techniques are listed. Finally, the limitations of the DL cancer prognosis prediction model in clinical practice are summarized, and the future research direction is prospected. This article could provide relevant researchers with a comprehensive understanding of DL cancer prognostic models and is expected to promote the research progress of cancer prognosis prediction.
Gaming Capital on Overwatch's Official Forums
Authors: Korkeila Henry , Dashiell Steven , Harviainen J. Tuomas
Published: September 2023

This study uses the public discussion boards of Overwatch to see how context-based gaming capital is present, accumulated and expended through the messages. The data consists of a 1-month snapshot from which 50 most viewed threads were analyzed. The following aspects were recorded from each thread and first 10 replies: views, number of comments, users’ role in forums, has the developer replied to thread, topic, date, whether there are types of capital (social, economic, cultural, symbolic) present, and in what linguistic form is the message posted. Findings: while discussions are within Overwatch's framework, there is scarcely any demonstrable amount of gaming capital in a single post or reply. Certain topics elicited more discussion, articulation methods varied but greatly leaned on the user's anecdotal experiences. Further, it was found that gaming capital is used to validate users’ own views and argument for the credibility of the user and their messages.
Accuracy of MRI in Assessment of High-Grade Partial Distal Biceps Tears
Authors: Schmidt Gregory J. , Fischer James P. , Hoyer Reed W. , Greenberg Jeffrey A. , Crosby Nicholas E.
Published: September 2023

Background:

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used to diagnose and assess the extent of partial distal biceps injuries. The aim of this study was to report on the accuracy of MRI and the effect of injury history and study timing on its performance.

Methods:

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent surgical treatment of partial thickness distal biceps tears at a single center by multiple surgeons was performed. Inclusion criteria consisted of the performance of a preoperative MRI and documentation of the intraoperatively visualized extent of the tear, and 68 patients met the criteria for inclusion. A chart review was completed to evaluate the symptom duration, injury history, and tear extent.

Results:

All patients had distal biceps tears of greater than 50% intraoperatively. However, MRI did not indicate any tearing in 20 (29%) patients, and its sensitivity for high-grade tear was 44%. Magnetic resonance imaging was significantly less likely to be read as high-grade tears in patients with insidious onset of their symptoms in comparison with patients who reported a traumatic onset (27% vs 55%, P = .024). However, the time from symptom onset to MRI did not significantly correlate with diagnosis of a high-grade tear on MRI ( r = −0.15, P = .21).

Conclusions:

These results indicate that MRI can underreport partial distal biceps tear extent, and this more commonly occurs in patients with insidious onset of pain.
Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody associated vasculitis following rituximab: Outcomes of 50 patients in a tertiary single centre
Authors: Alenzi Fahidah , Sangle Shirish R , D’Cruz David P
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) is an uncommon condition with heterogeneous multisystem organ involvement and significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to characterize the clinical features and laboratory characteristics, including B cell depletion, the ability to reduce corticosteroid dosage, and outcomes, of patients with AAV following rituximab treatment.

Methods: Retrospective clinical and laboratory data were collected from patients with AAV who visited our lupus unit, including 50 treated with rituximab. Numeric response variables (median and range) were collected, including age, follow-up duration, disease duration, and Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score (version 3). Statistical analyses were conducted using the SPSS 25.0 software. Statistical significance was considered a p-value <.05.

Results: Of the 50 patients, 40 (80%) had granulomatosis with polyangiitis, 30 (75%) achieved remission, and 10 (25%) had active disease. Fifteen patients (30%) had positive ANCA levels at their last ANCA level assessment follow-up. Thirty-seven patients (74%) had B cell depletion, and 30 (81.1%) were in remission. Their median immunoglobulin levels were 7.6 (2.7–21.2) g/L for IgG, 0.5 (0.07–1.71) g/L for IgM, and 1.83 (0.14–4.87) g/L for IgA. Forty-two patients (84%) were able to lower their steroid dose to <7.5 mg, with 36 (85.7%) in remission and six (14.3%) having active disease ( p = .003).

Conclusion: Our data suggests that most patients experience clinical remission after rituximab maintenance treatment. Half the patients were in remission, with normal creatinine levels and inflammatory markers. In addition, our patients could reduce steroid use.