bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease: concomitant IMID or paradoxical therapeutic effect? A scoping review on anti-IL-12/23 and anti-IL-23 antibodies
Authors: Bezzio Cristina , Cavalli Carolina Aliai Micol , Franchellucci Gianluca , Dal Buono Arianna , Gabbiadini Roberto , Scalvini Davide , Manara Sofia , Narcisi Alessandra , Armuzzi Alessandro , Saibeni Simone
Published: November 2024

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and psoriasis are chronic inflammatory conditions belonging to the heterogeneous group of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). A significant bidirectional link between these two entities has been observed, conditioning an increased risk of IBD in patients with psoriasis and vice-versa. Biological therapies used for IBD may lead to the occurrence of psoriasis as a “paradoxical reaction.” The objective of this study is to analyze the current evidence on the association between psoriasis and IBD, particularly finding case reports of the appearance or aggravation of psoriasis under therapy with interleukin-12/23 (IL-12/23) and IL-23 inhibitors. We conducted comprehensive research to identify studies examining the association between psoriasis and IBD and to find case presentations that reported the appearance or aggravation of psoriasis under biologic therapy with IL-12/23 and IL-23 inhibitors up to March 2024. Clinical trials for IL-12/23 and IL-23 inhibitors in IBD were analyzed to find cases of paradoxical psoriasis as registered adverse events. The sources of evidence are PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov. For each included case report, data on patient characteristics concerning their age, sex, and comorbidities were selected. Moreover, information regarding the indication for biologic therapy, time to onset of paradoxical psoriasis after starting treatment, clinical presentation, and management of the paradoxical psoriasis was extracted. We found 10 reported cases of ustekinumab-induced new-onset or worsening psoriasis and one reported case of paradoxical psoriasis induced by risankizumab in the literature. Four cases of paradoxical psoriasis have been also registered in clinical trials involving ustekinumab treatment in IBD. Psoriasis can constitute a rare paradoxical adverse event of ustekinumab treatment, but further studies are needed to better clarify the cytokine imbalance that leads to this phenomenon induced by inhibition of IL-12/23 and IL-23. Still, few real-world data exist to draw any conclusions, but risankizumab may positively treat psoriasis induced by ustekinumab.
A theoretical analysis of professionalism in health promotion with a focus on the Swiss context
Authors: Biehl Verena , Ruckstuhl Brigitte , Wieber Frank
Published: November 2024

The pressing global health crises highlight the need for professional health promotion (HP). Debates on the professionalization of HP are still overlaid by questions regarding the conceptualization of HP, yet literature is scarce regarding this point. Therefore, this article aims to (a) provide an overview of the current state of professionalism in HP with a focus on the Swiss context, and (b) identify facilitators, gaps and barriers of professionalism in HP. By investigating these aims, we contribute to specifying the conceptualization of the specialist HP professional profile. To analyse professionalism in HP, we examined individual and institutional aspects of sociological theories on professions. We selected seven aspects as a theoretical foundation for the analysis: (1) specific knowledge base, (2) specific field of action, (3) specific education, (4) professional association, (5) specific competencies, (6) professional identity, and (7) professional practice. Analysing each aspect of professionalism in HP, we see a clear progression within the last decades internationally as well as in Switzerland. The development of a Core Competency Framework – the CompHP – is a milestone in the professionalization of HP. Some major gaps and barriers are identifiable, which should be proactively faced by the specialist HP professionals. To further flourish as HP professionals, a unity regarding contents and levels of education needs to be discussed. Therefore, an investment in professional identity formation of the specialist HP workforce is likely to promote their engagement, competencies and shared values, which are essential promotors of professionalism in HP.
Epithelioid inflammatory myofibroblastic sarcoma with exceptionally long response to lorlatinib—a case report
Authors: Becht Rafał , Kiełbowski Kajetan , Żychowska Justyna , Poncyljusz Wojciech , Łanocha Aleksandra , Kozak Katarzyna , Gabrysz-Trybek Ewa , Domagała Paweł
Published: November 2024

Epithelioid inflammatory myofibroblastic sarcoma (EIMS) is a rare and aggressive subtype of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. The disease is associated with rearrangements of the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). In this paper, we present the clinicopathological features and treatment of a female patient diagnosed with EIMS. In 2019, an 18-year-old female patient was admitted to the hospital with abdominal pain. Radiological examinations confirmed a large pelvic mass which was subsequently resected. After re-evaluation of the initial histologic diagnosis, the final diagnosis of EIMS was established. Consequently, due to the lack of response to chemotherapy and deteriorating clinical condition, she began the therapy with ALK inhibitors. In total, the patient was treated with crizotinib, alectinib, and lorlatinib. As a result, after over 4 years since the initial diagnosis, she is still alive with significantly improved clinical condition and quality of life. This paper demonstrates the clinical benefits of sequential therapy of ALK inhibitors and an exceptionally long response to lorlatinib, a third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
Evaluation of virtual training delivery for health information systems implementation in Canada: A qualitative study
Authors: Karsan Inaara , Hasan Hafsa , Jeyakumar Tharshini , Ambata-Villaneuva Sharon , Fur Katharine , Hanley Ivanka , McClure Sarah , Omar Maram , Sheriff Tamee , Wiljer David
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

As health information systems (HIS) become a critical part of patient care, it is crucial to build an effective education strategy that facilitates the adoption and sustained use of these systems. The COVID-19 pandemic (2019–2023) has contributed to the rapid shift in virtual education and training for healthcare staff.

Objective:

We sought to evaluate the efficacy and long-term sustainability of virtual training for using a HIS by examining opportunities and challenges.

Method:

An exploratory, multimethods study was conducted with staff who had taken part in a virtual HIS training program as part of the clinical transformation journey at a large academic health science center in Canada. The study was guided by the Accelerating the Learning Cycle framework. Data were collected through pre- and post-training surveys, as well as semi-structured interviews. An iterative, inductive, constant comparative analysis approach, outlined by Braun and Clarke, was taken to thematically analyse the data.

Results:

Of the 33 participants in this study, 13 were educational champions, and 20 were end-users. The pre- and post-training surveys yielded a total of 1479 responses in both groups. Three prominent themes emerged from this study: (1) fostering dynamic facilitation techniques to cultivate an inclusive culture and adapt to diverse learning needs; (2) integrating practical learning activities that contribute to knowledge retention; and (3) ensuring training resources are accessible and consistent for an optimal training experience.

Conclusion:

As HIS continue to be part of the transformation of the healthcare ecosystem, education is vital in preparing healthcare providers to perform their clinical tasks and effectively use these technologies. Findings from this study can be used to inform the development of virtual training that is inclusive and addresses the needs of care providers.
A Case of Moyamoya Vasculopathy Presenting as Simultaneous Ischemic and Hemorrhagic Strokes
Authors: Zhong Wayne , Mehta Amit , Haberli Nicholas , Elmashad Ahmed , Forman Rachel , Kim Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Background

Moyamoya disease (MMD) is a rare pathological state characterized by progressive stenosis of the terminal portion of the internal carotid arteries (ICA). Complications include both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, for which there is no curative treatment for MMD. Early diagnosis with surgical intervention is vital for there is no definitive treatment. Due to the bimodal age distribution, moyamoya should be considered for patients presenting with stroke and supraclinoid ICA vasculopathy.

Case

We present a case of a 23-year-old female who presented with left arm weakness and sudden onset thunderclap headache. Upon further questioning, it was revealed that the patient had started an estrogen-containing birth control two weeks prior to presentation. Neuroimaging at our tertiary care center demonstrated simultaneous ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes in the bilateral hemispheres associated with vasculopathy seen in both invasive and noninvasive cerebrovascular imaging. She was diagnosed with idiopathic moyamoya disease since her serum and cerebrospinal fluid studies did not reveal any obvious precipitators to suggest moyamoya syndrome (MMS).

Conclusion

There were no obvious precipitating factors identified in the extensive workup for this patient. Therefore, further secondary prevention is difficult for this otherwise young and healthy individual. While there is data to support the use of antiplatelet medications for the prevention of ischemic stroke secondary to intracranial atherosclerotic disease, there are no clear guidelines for the treatment of MMD that simultaneously causes ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke. Further research on the pathophysiology and treatment modalities for MMD are needed to guide clinicians in treating this complex disease.
TNF-α Regulated Bidirectional Interaction Between Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Articular Chondrocytes
Authors: Huang Yu , Zuo Fengqiong , Wu Jue , Wu Shaoping
Published: November 2024

Background

Articular chondrocytes (ACs) secrete a variety of extracellular matrix components to maintain the functions of articular cartilage. Degeneration of ACs leads to the degeneration of articular cartilage and consequently to osteoarthritis. The secretion of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is capable of protecting ACs from degeneration, and thus BMSCs are widely applied to treat osteoarthritis.

Objective

This study aims to explore whether BMSCs and ACs will affect the functions of each other through their secretions in the context of osteoarthritis.

Design

BMSCs and ACs isolated from rabbits were identified using flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry. Conditioned medium of BMSCs and ACs treated with 0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 ng/ml of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were collected and used to treat ACs and BMSCs, respectively. The viabilities of ACs and BMSCs treated with condition medium were assessed using a Cell Count Kit-8 (CCK-8) kit. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), immunoblotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods were employed to evaluate the relative expression levels of genes and proteins, as well as the cytokine concentrations in the supernatant.

Results

Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry results indicated that the purity of isolated cells exceeded 95%. CCK-8 analysis showed that 6 hours of treatment with a conditioned medium did not affect the viability of BMSCs and ACs. However, treatment for 12 hours or longer significantly increased the viability of BMSCs ( p < 0.05) and significantly decreased the viability of ACs ( p < 0.01). RT-qPCR results demonstrated that the relative expression levels of Runx2 (1.15-3.91), Alp (1.06-2.84), TNF (BMSCs: 0.94-2.54; ACs: 1.03-2.64), IL6 (BMSCs: 0.98-2.78; ACs: 0.96-3.71), IL17A (BMSCs: 1.08-5.91; ACs: 0.90-4.20), and IL10 (BMSCs: 0.93-2.82; ACs: 0.89-2.25) genes in conditioned medium-treated BMSCs and ACs were dose-dependently elevated ( p < 0.001) by TNF-α treatment. Immunoblotting analysis revealed that the expression levels of RUNX2 (0.53-0.86) and ALP (0.49-0.85) proteins were also dose-dependently elevated ( p < 0.001) by TNF-α treatment. ELISA results showed similar TNF-α dose-dependent increases ( p < 0.001) in the supernatant concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α (BMSCs: 36.90 ± 0.75 to 199.38 pg/ml; ACs: 29.76 to 293.99 pg/ml), interleukin (IL)-6 (BMSCs: 4.96-48.24 pg/ml; ACs: 6.12-38.15 pg/ml), IL-17 (BMSCs: 3.06-28.99 pg/ml; ACs: 3.08-28.51 pg/ml), as well as the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (BMSCs: 6.34-65.02 pg/ml; ACs: 5.30-34.85 pg/ml).

Conclusion

Together, these results indicate a TNF-α-regulated bidirectional interaction between BMSCs and ACs, deepening our understanding of the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis and aiding in its prevention and treatment.
Meniscus Injury Induces Patellofemoral Osteoarthritis Development Mediated by Synovitis and Gait Kinematics: A Preclinical Study
Authors: Nakahata Akihiro , Ito Akira , Nakahara Ryo , Kuroki Hiroshi
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate whether meniscal injury leads to the development of patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis (PFOA) and to explore how synovitis and gait kinematics mediate this relationship.

Methods

Fifty-four male Wistar rats (12 weeks old) were randomly assigned to the control, sham, or destabilized medial meniscus (DMM) groups. The rats were subjected to gait analysis to assess the kinematic changes at 2, 4, and 8 weeks postoperatively. Subsequently, the rats were euthanized, and their right knees were harvested for histological analysis.

Results:

The Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) and modified Mankin (MM) scores in the DMM group were significantly higher than those in the control and sham groups at week 2 and significantly higher than those in the control group at week 4. The OARSI and MM scores in the sham group were significantly higher than those in the control group at weeks 2 and 4. The association between the DMM and OARSI scores was significantly mediated by the synovitis score and knee flexion angle at foot contact (proportion mediated: 58% and 10%, respectively). The association between the sham and OARSI scores was significantly mediated by the synovitis score and knee flexion angle (proportion mediated: 24% and 24%, respectively).

Conclusions:

DMM surgery induced articular cartilage damage in the PF joint. Synovitis and the knee flexion angle significantly mediated the association between DMM or sham surgery and PFOA development.
Integrated management of osteopathy and rehabilitation for complex regional pain syndrome: A case report
Authors: AlKuait Norah , AlTaleb Hanan , Almuwais Afrah
Published: November 2024

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating condition that typically affects one limb, often triggered by acute trauma. Symptoms include persistent pain, skin sensitivity, swelling, and mobility issues. While various therapeutic approaches exist, evidence for the effectiveness of multimodal treatments is limited. A 25-year-old female presented with CRPS following a sciatic nerve injury due to an intramuscular injection. She experienced severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility in her left ankle. Physical therapy assessment revealed significant weakness and limitations in both active and passive range of motion due to pain and swelling. The patient underwent a holistic treatment consisting of osteopathy and rehabilitation exercises over 36 sessions spanning 9 months. Significant improvements were observed after treatment, including reduced pain, increased mobility, and improved nerve conduction. These findings suggest that a multimodal therapeutic approach may be beneficial in managing CRPS and improving patients’ quality of life.
A rare case report of severe prostate abscess treated with artificial intelligence-assisted mpMRI-TRUS real-time-guided puncture drainage
Authors: Wu Ye , Wang Chen , He Xianya , Li Yuanwei , Yang Yongjun , Lu Qiang
Published: November 2024

A prostate abscess is a rare complication of prostatitis, typically observed in patients with conditions such as immunodeficiency, diabetes, urinary tract abnormalities, and chronic indwelling catheters. We present a 60-year-old patient, admitted to the hospital presenting progressively with dysuria for more than 1 year, accompanied by frequent urination, urgent pain, and urinary retention, intermittent fever for 20 days. A multi-parametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) scan of the abdomen/pelvis showed a prostatic abscess. Initially, meropenem treatment was not effective. Subsequently, the patient underwent an artificial intelligence-assisted mpMRI-TRUS (transrectal ultrasonography) real-time-guided puncture drainage. The results of purulent drainage cultures were positive for K. pneumonia, sensitive to bacillosporin. Thus, the combination treatment of sensitive antibiotics and transperineal drainage was conducted. The patient was followed up for 6 months, the outcome was satisfactory. Timely and appropriate treatments (such as the combination of sensitive antibiotics and artificial intelligence-assisted mpMRI-TRUS real-time-guided transperineal puncture drainage) are crucial for both patient survival and the prevention of complications.
Factor analysis of the Leary Impostorism Scale in professional psychology trainees
Authors: Martin James , Gonsalvez Craig J , Pickard Judy A , Deane Frank P , Clark Olivia
Published: November 2024

Trainee psychologists, like those completing a postgraduate master’s programmes are vulnerable to experiencing impostorism. To help assess this risk and develop intervention strategies, there is a need for a brief validated measure of impostorism. The Leary Impostorism Scale (LIS) is a brief self-report measure that demonstrates satisfactory psychometric properties but has not been validated with trainees undertaking professional psychology training. The current study involves an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of the LIS and describes levels of impostorism in a sample of Australian trainee psychologists. Participants were 161 postgraduate students enrolled in their first year of a psychology master’s programme. A maximum likelihood (ML) EFA revealed a single factor accounted for 73.67% of total variance. Parallel analysis verified the unidimensional model. A Cronbach’s α of .94, was obtained indicating high internal consistency. Overall, the sample scored at ‘moderate’ levels with 23% having high levels of impostorism. Further research is required to investigate further item reduction of the LIS due to high internal consistency. In addition, to clarifying factors that may account for differences between levels of impostorism between participants in different training programmes, there is a need to develop and assess interventions to reduce the negative effects of impostorism.
Self-labeling and Mental Health Service Use
Authors: Thoits Peggy A.
Published: November 2024

Demand for mental health services in the United States has increased, but epidemiological research shows 50 to 60 percent of patients in treatment do not meet criteria for a past-year disorder, the indicator of “true” or “legitimate” clinical need. Thus, many seem to be inappropriately consuming services already in limited supply. However, if clinical need indicators were broadened to incorporate histories of disorder (including those recovering) and serious psychological distress, most patients should exhibit true clinical need—a disorder history, serious distress, or both. Self-labeling and treatment-seeking theories add that voluntary treatment use is especially likely when individuals correctly recognize their clinical symptoms as a mental health problem. Tests with National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2019 data ( N = 41,528) showed a majority of patients indeed had broadened clinical needs that they accurately identified as mental health problems. Consuming limited services for nonclinical reasons is less common than previously thought.
Development and Validation of the Dust Exposure Reduction Behavior Scale
Authors: Hwang Sung Woo , Kim Hyun Kyoung
Published: November 2024

This study was conducted to develop the Dust Exposure Reduction Behavior Scale (DERBS) and to validate it for the general population. The scale was developed based on Williamson’s model of everyday life information seeking. For exploratory factor analysis and confirmative factor analysis, 274 subjects aged 18 or older were recruited in South Korea using convenience sampling between February 1 and March 28, 2021. Content validity, convergence validity, discriminant validity, and internal consistency reliability were examined according to DeVellis’ methodology. The DERBS consists of 12 items with four factors: protection from dust, staying inside, sharing information, and health promotion. Convergent validity with the personal environmental health behaviors scale was supported ( r = .63, p < .001), and Cronbach’s alpha was .83. Confirmatory factor analysis showed good model fit (χ2 = 106.36, p < .001, Q = 2.22, SRMR = 0.06, RMSEA = 0.06, IFI = 0.94, GFI = 0.94, AGFI = 0.97, NFI = 0.90, CFI = 0.94, PNFI = 0.66, PCFI = 0.69). The DERBS is a valid and reliable scale for measuring dust reduction behaviors under circumstances of indoor and outdoor air pollution. This scale can be utilized in educational interventions aiming to enhance environmental health behavior and promote respiratory health outcomes. This DERBS will be able to objectively measure outcomes in investigations of health behavior under circumstances where air pollution is serious and interventions are needed to target environmental health behaviors. It will also contribute to the promotion of environmental health behaviors related to the reduction of fine dust exposure among community residents.
Evaluation of the Policy and Institutional Implications of Digital Tools in E-Governance Reforms Implementation for Service Delivery in Cross River State Civil Service, Nigeria
Authors: Inakefe Gabriel Inakefe , Bassey Virtue Uduak , Amadi John Onyekachi
Published: November 2024

Massive advances in information and communication technology have intensified the usage of digital technologies by organizations in the 21st century. This research aims to determine if ICT tools inhibit successful e-governance implementation and service delivery in the Cross River State Civil Service. The study’s theoretical basis was the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). To achieve its goal, the study used a mixed-methods research design. A total of 374 samples were drawn from a population of 1,123. The study’s questionnaire was administered using proportionate and random sampling approaches. An interview with thirteen (13) permanent secretaries of the ministries chosen for the study was also done. A one-way ANOVA was used to examine the quantitative data, while a descriptive evaluation was used to analyze the qualitative data. According to the investigation findings, the insufficiency of ICT tools hampers efficient service delivery in the Cross River State Civil Service. The findings also revealed that the problem of the insufficiency of digital tools is driven by insufficient budgetary availability for ICT financing. The study recommends adequate financing, digital literacy training, and the acquisition of ICT tools to promote successful e-governance implementation and service delivery.
Exploring Place Meanings Stakeholders Have About Everglades National Park
Authors: Choe Yunseon , Schuett Michael A. , Matarrita-Cascante David
Published: November 2024

By applying the theoretical framework of symbolic interactionism, this study explores the meanings stakeholders hold about Everglades National Park (EVER). Based on our analysis, four themes reflecting what EVER means to participants emerged: (1) A place with unique natural resources and biodiverse ecosystem habitats that should be preserved. (2) A place to see different habitats and enjoy recreation and tourism. (3) An ancestral home to look after and take care of. (4) A place for financial investment to support livelihood. We found these dimensions to be interconnected altogether playing a crucial role in shaping their experiences and meanings. Study findings illuminate the meanings of natural places social factors into protected area management. Future research should explore more the meanings stakeholders create regarding national parks, and protected areas to be able to design management strategies that reflect such meanings.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Research in Forensic Linguistics
Authors: Wasi Muzaina , Zaki Sajida , Huma Anwar Rahila
Published: November 2024

Forensic linguistics is a specialised discipline within the field of applied linguistics, it critically examines language use across diverse modalities. Its fundamental objective is to provide a rigorous legal framework for carefully analysing linguistic patterns. This study aims to identify the publishing trends in forensic linguistics by investigating the research constituents including authors, countries, affiliations, journals, and keywords. In contemporary society, there is a rapid proliferation of ignorance concerning copyrights and the rights of others. Therefore, it is crucial to raise awareness among the public about these rights. This study endeavours to present a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the existing research landscape within Forensic Linguistics. The data for this research was extracted from the Web of Science database, analysed using Microsoft spreadsheet, and visualized using network data visualisation software, VOS Viewer (1.16.9). The major findings include the identification of commonly used keywords in forensic linguistics, such as legal language, linguistic, language policy, language, law, legal translation, speech recognition, authorship attribution, and discourse. This paper also draws attention to the absence of Forensic Linguistics specialisation programs and endorses their establishment considering published research and the global crime rate. Moreover, it aims to stimulate a passion for research in the said field by providing several recommendations for different stakeholders around the world. This paper also highlights forensic linguistics as a significant field of research, education, and professional practice worldwide as this study has implications for researchers, linguists, lawyers, higher education policymakers, and university administrations.
Positive Attitudes Toward Mathematics and Big-Fish-Little-Pond Effects Among Eighth Grade Taiwanese Students
Authors: Yang Chih-Chien , Tsai Liang-Ting
Published: November 2024

This study was to examine the big-fish-little-pond effects (BFLPE) on mathematics achievement by the students’ positive attitude toward mathematics (PATM) of Taiwanese eighth-grade students in the Trends of International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). The SLM (students like learning mathematics), SVM (students value mathematics), and SCM (students confident in mathematics) have been three critical factors of students’ PATM. The sample comprised 5,042 Taiwanese eighth-grade students from 150 schools that participated in the TIMSS. The two-level hierarchical linear model analysis extends the BFLP positive association between students’ individual mathematics achievement with SCM to include SLM and SVM levels. In addition, the BFLPE negative correlations between school-average mathematics achievements and aggregated self-concepts have also been confirmed with these three variables. The interaction study indicated that students with high achievements experienced a greater BFLPE on SLM and SCM scores than did students with low achievements. Implications of the findings and suggestions for future study are discussed.
Coin Test: A Complementary Examination for Assessing Upper Extremity Function in Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Li Xudong J. , Labaran Lawal , Talla Vishal , Donato Zach , Lesevic Milos , Wang Benjamin , Shen Francis , Shimer Adam , Lockey Stephen , Singla Anuj , Russell Shawn , Novicoff Wendy , Jin Li
Published: November 2024

Study Design

A prospective observational study.

Objectives

To explore the potential utility of the Coin Test as a valuable tool for assessing and diagnosing cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).

Methods

In the first cohort, 36 patients with balance issues were assessed for CSM using the new Coin Test. In the second cohort, the Coin Test and mJOA scores were compared in 36 CSM patients before and 6 weeks after surgery.

Results

Among the 36 patients with balance problems who failed tandem gait test, 15 out of 16 (94%) CSM patients failed the Coin Test. The other 20 patients (56%) without CSM completed the Coin Test successfully but failed the tandem gait test for various reasons. The Coin Test demonstrated high specificity (100%) and sensitivity (94%) for diagnosing CSM in patients who failed tandem gait test. In the second cohort, the mJOA score improved significantly from 12 to 15 6 weeks postoperatively, and the Coin Test completion time decreased from 29.5 seconds to 16.4 seconds postoperatively ( P < 0.0001). Higher mJOA scores correlate with better performance (shorter time) on the Coin Test, both at baseline and 6 weeks post-surgery.

Conclusion

The Coin Test is a useful tool for evaluating hand fine motor and sensory function in CSM patients with high specificity. It also can serve as a tool for assessing surgical outcomes in patients with CSM.
Performance, Longevity and Evolution of Joint Venture: Investigation in the Lifecycle of the Venture Through the Case of an International Joint Venture in India
Authors: Arora Ajay , Inkpen Andrew , Amawate Vibhas , Mishra Debasisha
Published: November 2024

Joint ventures (JVs) and cooperative business alliances have been around for over a century, initially emerging from the need for shared risk and capital. Research on JVs has evolved from focusing on motivations for formation to examining their performance and termination phases. However, the dissolution and post-termination stages of international joint ventures remain relatively underexplored despite the rising trend of alliance terminations. This study addresses these gaps by analysing the evolution of JVs, including restructuring and dissolution, through a longitudinal case study of a successful business enterprise spanning four decades that has undergone the entire cycle. It finds that changes in partner composition and equity, influenced by external factors, are integral to a JV’s evolution. Additionally, trust and learning play key roles in control decisions, and terminations should be viewed as adaptations to market shifts rather than failures. The main drivers of termination often arise from changes during the JV process rather than initial formation conditions. Besides adding to the field of management education and research, the study is intended to provide practical insights for JV management as many of the JVs in developing nations, particularly South Asian countries, reach maturity.
Engineering VEGF-like peptide QKCMP promotes rapid endothelialization of blood vessels
Authors: Wang Haifeng , Huang Yi , Zhou Chenhui , Gong Fanyong , Wang Jiangyong , Chen Gao
Published: November 2024

Angiogenesis, which involves many essential processes, such as human reproduction, organ development, and wound healing, is regulated by multiple signaling pathways. QKCMP is a polypeptide with similar effects to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which promotes angiogenesis. In this study, zebrafish were treated with different concentrations of QKCMP, and it was found that QKCMP significantly promoted the growth of blood vessels. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was then treated with different concentrations of QKCMP, which proved that QKCMP could promote cell proliferation and inhibit cell apoptosis, and thus obtain a complete gene expression matrix. Genes and biological functions or pathways significantly associated with QKCMP were obtained using differential gene expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and enrichment analyses. Among them, genes significantly related to QKCMP are enriched in biological processes (BP) such as vascular formation and development, as well as the main signaling pathway: PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. The proproliferative and antiapoptotic effects of QKCMP on the HUVECs and the induction of cell cycle were then verified using cell counting kit 8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry. Finally, it was confirmed that QKCMP promotes angiogenesis and rapid endothelialization by stimulating the PI3K-AKT and Hippo signaling pathways using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot (WB).
Youth Unemployment  in Bhutan: A Meta- Analysis of the Lessons  and Perspectives
Authors: Waiba Phurba Sonam
Published: November 2024

Unemployment is an economic issue worldwide. Bhutan is no exception; particularly during and after the Covid-19 pandemic the unemployment figures, particularly, youth unemployment rates in Bhutan were surprising. Despite efforts, the issue still looks elusive and wavering with no major reduction in national unemployment figures.

To this end, a comprehension of the underlying issue, the nature of the Bhutanese labour market and an understanding contributing factors are essential. In addition, evaluating the government plans and policies is key. Thus, this study has attempted to analyse the data over the past 10 years, of relevant sources such as labour force surveys, policy documents of the Royal Government of Bhutan, and other related studies.

The findings are presented as tables, graphs and descriptive statistics and discussed and concluded accordingly. The study identifies three critical elements referred to as the ‘employment triangle’ that significantly influence labour market dynamics in Bhutan. Moreover, they are demographic transformation, work attitudes and educational deficits.

Precisely, youth unemployment in Bhutan is influenced by factors, such as demographic transformation (job security, employee protection, absence of employment-rich economy), work attitude (conventional job choice and preference patterns, negative role of society) and educational deficit (skills mismatch, inadequate national HRD planning and support, lack of skills development or school to work transition initiatives).
Aesop’s Fables as a Financial Planning Communication Tool
Authors: Albritton Andrew , Philpot James
Published: November 2024

Professional financial planners spend an increasing proportion of their time counseling clients. Given the complexities of financial planning, effective planner-client communication is critical. Storytelling has been an effective communication device for millennia because it engages the listener’s reasoning, emotions, and imagination. Many of Aesop’s fables are effective storytelling tools for financial communication, as the morals of these fables have easy application to financial planning and management. This article demonstrates the use of four example fables in financial planning communication and provides a list of 27 additional finance-related fables combined with financial keywords for application.
Emotional Labor: Institutional Responsibility and Strategies to Offer Emotional Support for Leaders Engaging in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Work
Authors: Ueda Natsumi , Kezar Adrianna , Holcombe Elizabeth , Vigil Darsella , Harper Jordan
Published: November 2024

Leaders from marginalized groups disproportionately shoulder emotional labor resulting from the work of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in higher education. This emotional burden can lead to stress and mental health consequences. Institutions bear the responsibility of addressing the emotional burden. This multiple-case qualitative study aimed to identify effective institutional strategies to alleviate emotional labor. We interviewed 107 leaders at eight institutions to examine their experiences with emotional labor and institutional support. We selected institutions based on their progress toward DEI. Leaders were chosen based on being involved directly in the DEI work within a shared leadership effort. Drawing on Ahmed’s theory of diversity work and Zembylas’s critical emotional praxis, we identified the following themes: sharing DEI responsibilities with many leaders, creating spaces for emotions, and role-modeling the desired behaviors to build positive relationships and trust. Through these strategies, institutions can reduce emotional labor and create equitable environments for DEI leaders.
Against the Carceral Logics of Schools: A Critical Ethnographic Study of Restorative Justice and Politicized Caring in a Black School
Authors: Elmesky Rowhea , Marcucci Olivia
Published: November 2024

Restorative justice has the potential to re-frame schools as caring and politically conscious educational spaces. As it moves to the mainstream, however, it risks being co-opted by the carceral logics that undergird the schooling of Black students in the United States. This ethnographic analysis interrogates how restorative justice provides opportunity to politicize care within the boys mentoring group at one predominantly Black high school. Specifically, the adults used the restorative circle to (1) express verbal and physical affection and (2) evoke and acknowledge shared emotions, while also (3) recognizing the positionalities and lived experiences of the Black boys in the circle and (4) co-constructing socioemotional and cognitive-behavioral tools to navigate the structures that surround them. We argue that this politicized caring is crucial to ensuring restorative practices optimize their anti-carceral potential.
Diffusion of Digital Payments in India: A Tale of Two Technologies
Authors: Iyer Chidambaran G.
Published: November 2024

Higher productivity resulting from better technology can be achieved only with widespread diffusion. In a developing country context, the decision to support one or a few among a gamut of technologies is not an easy one for the policymaker. Using the experience of two digital technologies—card payments and Unified Payments Interface from India—this article intends to provide some pointers in this direction. We use the functions of the innovation systems approach to argue that if the cost of adoption and cost of use are reduced, then the technology diffuses faster. This implies that innovation systems that ensure lower costs tend to be more successful and hence policy should support those functions within innovation systems that lower costs.
Risk of major vascular events in patients without traditional risk factors after transient ischemic attack or minor ischemic stroke: An international prospective cohort
Authors: Uchiyama Shinichiro , Hoshino Takao , Minematsu Kazuo , Meledje Marie-Laure , Charles Hugo , Albers Gregory W , Caplan Louis R , Donnan Geoffrey A , Ferro José M , Hennerici Michael G , Molina Carlos , Rothwell Peter M , Wong Lawrence KS , Amarenco Pierre
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

To investigate the clinical characteristics in patients without traditional risk factors (TRFs) after transient ischemic attack or minor ischemic stroke, who were recruited in the TIAregistry.org.

Patients and methods:

A total of 3847 patients were analyzed. TRFs included hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, current smoking, and atrial fibrillation. Background characteristics and outcomes at 1 and 5 years in patients without TRFs were compared to those in patients with TRFs. The primary outcome was major cardiovascular event (MACE), which was non-fatal stroke, non-fatal acute coronary syndrome, or vascular death. To evaluate the causes, we applied the ASCOD (atherosclerosis, small vessel disease, cardiac pathology, other causes or dissection) grading system.

Results:

One-year risk of MACE (5.3% vs 6.3%, hazard ratio (HR) 0.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53–1.31) was comparable between patients without TRFs ( n = 402) and those with TRFs ( n = 3445). Five-year risk of MACE was significantly lower in patients without TRFs than in those with TRFs (7.9% vs 13.9%, HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.39–0.82). In patients without TRFs, causal atherosclerosis was a potent risk factor (HR 5.67, 95% CI 2.68–12.02) and ipsilateral extra- or intra-cranial arterial stenosis was only significant predictor of MACE (interaction p = 0.0046) at 5 years.

Conclusion and discussion:

The 5-year risk of MACE was lower in patients without TRFs than those with TRFs, although a certain level of risk persisted in the absence of TRFs. The most significant predictor of MACE in patients without TRFs was arterial stenosis.
Impact of urban satisfaction on settlement intention: Differences in household registration and city size
Authors: Dang Yunxiao , Zhan Dongsheng , Chen Li , Zhang Wenzhong
Published: November 2024

Urban satisfaction plays a crucial role in improving the settlement intention of urban residents. The household registration system has complicated the relationship between urban satisfaction and settlement intention, especially considering the diversity cities of different population size during the process of urbanization in China. Based on a large-scale survey in 2020 from the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development in 36 cities, this paper explores the impact of urban satisfaction on residents’ settlement intention, and the moderating impacts caused by household registration status and city population size. Multilevel model, multinomial logistic model, and Heckman two-stage method are used for the analysis. The results indicate that urban satisfaction is positively associated with settlement intention. Both the impacts of individual characteristics and city attributes on settlement intention varies with household registration status. Besides, there is a U-shaped relationship between urban population and settlement intention, and residents of cities with the smallest populations report high settlement intention. This research contributes to understanding the role of household registration system in moderating the relationship between urban satisfaction and settlement intention, and it offers insights into urban population introduction policy and healthy urbanization in China.
The FORWARD Psoriasis Registry: Patient-Reported Outcomes in a Novel Psoriasis Registry and Comparison of Traditional, Dermatologist-Led Enrollment With Web-Based Patient Enrollment
Authors: Song William B. , Michaud Kaleb , Lonowski Sarah L. , Kaufmann Mark , Pearson Ryan , Del Rosso James Q. , Schumacher Rebecca , Ogdie Alexis R. , Gelfand Joel M.
Published: November 2024

Background

Real-world evidence describing the natural history of all manifestations and severities of psoriasis is needed, as existing studies often recruit from a restricted patient population, and treatment failure and dissatisfaction is common. The FORWARD Psoriasis Registry collects patient-reported data directly online from participants independent of clinician involvement.

Objective

To test the feasibility of this new registry design and compare baseline characteristics, patient-reported disease outcomes, and treatment utilization between participants enrolling through their clinician (primary enrollment group) and participants self-enrolling online (secondary).

Methods

We summarized cross-sectional enrollment data from adults with clinician-diagnosed psoriasis who enrolled in the registry from September 2023 through June 2024 and compared baseline characteristics between enrollment groups.

Results

The registry enrolled 1560 adults with clinician-diagnosed psoriasis from 42 states and territories in the United States. In the primary enrollment group, 68% were female, mean age was 51 years, 34% of participants had moderate or severe psoriasis based on PREPI, and 27% reported clinician-diagnosed psoriatic arthritis. Forty six percent actively used systemic therapies while 65% used topical therapies for psoriasis, and 20% were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with their treatment. Comparatively, the secondary enrollment group reported statistically significantly worse psoriasis burden for nearly all disease outcomes.

Conclusion

The FORWARD Psoriasis Registry rapidly enrolled a large, national cohort of participants with psoriasis, demonstrating feasibility of participant-driven data collection. We found important differences between participants enrolling through their clinician and self-enrolled participants, highlighting the need to collect real-world evidence to understand psoriasis regardless of access to clinical care.
Between the god-trick and pluriversal potential: Four figures of drone in tropical forest conservation
Authors: Millner Naomi , Amador-Jimenez Mónica
Published: November 2024

Unpiloted aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, are increasingly used to monitor conservation environments. In forests, drones map changes in canopy cover, count wildlife, capture footage for wider publics and track illegal activities. As social scientists have already made clear, such practices raise important political issues. As a technology of aerial surveillance, drones can be used to collect visual data that, intentionally or not, may support the policing of populations in protected areas or the production of atmospheres of fear. Nevertheless, the contribution of this article is to explore the potential for drones to be constituted as a ‘pluriversal’ technology. This is to say, we consider drones as a modality for constituting forest worlds that include cultural and territorial rights, and promote multispecies care. Drawing on ethnographic work in the Maya Forest, Andean Forest and Amazon Forest, we explore these possibilities by tracing four distinct but overlapping ‘figures’ of drones within tropical forest conservation. While military histories and extractivist logics shape drone use in these contexts, we nevertheless point to the ways that the aerial view is also being reclaimed and articulated as part of Indigenous and community-led monitoring systems. In conclusion, we make clear that this potential is always precarious and situated, as drones used as pluriversal technologies may, at any point, be appropriated for surveillance and control.