bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of nil per oral, total parenteral nutrition, milrinone and non-suction chest tube drainage-based management for chylothorax following pediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Rahmath Muhammed Riyas K , Bhat Akhlaque N , Lone Reyaz A , Kamal Reema Y
Published: April 2024

Objective

A single centre experience with chylothorax in post cardiac surgical patients.

Methods

Retrospective review.

Results

Chylothorax developed in 55 out of 873 operated patients (6.3%). Median age of the chylothorax cohort was 95 days (range 1–995). Neonates constituted 36% and 49% were infants. Group-1(35 patients-treated during the years 2011–2015) included those who were managed with low fat diet initially with other standard measures including steroid, octreotide, pleurodesis, lymphangiogram or thoracic duct ligation whenever required.Group-2 (20 patients, treated between year 2016–2018) were managed with nil per oral, total parenteral nutrition, extended use of milrinone and no use of chest tube suction with other above standard measures when required.Group-1 and group-2 were comparable in terms of their age and weight ( p > 0.05).We observed lower volume of chest drainage, shorter intubation time, length of intensive care stay and hospital stay in group-2 compared to group-1 though they were statistically not significant ( p > 0.05). Occurrence of massive chylothorax (>20 ml/kg/day) in group-1 was significantly higher [18 patients (51%) in group-1 vs 4 patients in group-2 (20%) (Chi-square 5.25, p = 0.02)]. In hospital mortality in group-1 was higher compared to group-2 (5/35 = 14.5% vs 1/20 = 5%), however, it was statistically not significant [risk ratio 2.86; 95% CI 0.36, 22.77; p = 0.59)]. Acute kidney injury was observed in about 25% of patients who had chylothorax. A higher mortality was observed in patients with chylothorax who had acute kidney injury [5/14 (35%)] compared to those who did not have acute kidney injury [1/41 (2.4%)] (Chi-square 11.89, p = 0.001)].

In a heterogenous cohort of post-cardiac surgical patients who developed chylothorax, our suggested new regime (nil per oral, parenteral nutrition, extended use of milrinone and no suction applied to the chest drains) contributed to reduce the frequency of massive chylothorax occurrence significantly.
Bringing the state back in: Ruling parties and regime collapse during the Arab Uprisings
Authors: Wolf Anne
Published: April 2024

Scholars have mostly investigated the fall of dictatorships during the Arab Uprisings through the lens of contentious politics, uncovering new information about the protest dynamics and how they spread both within countries and throughout the wider region. However, the longer structural vulnerabilities within regimes have received little attention; yet such factors internal to states and their regimes proved paramount to the social revolutions investigated by Theda Skocpol. Focusing on the case of Tunisia, the author shows how the economic downturn and a succession crisis contributed to the decay of the Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali regime starting in the 2000s. Importantly, they heightened internecine conflicts within the regime and, in particular, within the longtime ruling party, the Constitutional Democratic Rally. It is through this backdrop that the events of the 2010–2011 Tunisian revolution must be understood: far from supporting the regime in times of crisis, members of Ben Ali’s ruling party engaged in contentious activities against him, thus crucially weakening the regime from within.
Probation as social work
Authors: Canton Rob
Published: April 2024

In England and Wales probation was regarded as social work for most of the twentieth century, but some thirty years ago the government rejected this conception. In the context of continuing deliberations about the purpose and character of probation, it is timely to revisit its relationship to social work. It is argued that a principal reason for the politically motivated repudiation of social work was its associations with care, but this rested on confusion about care and a comparable misunderstanding of the concept of control. Appreciation of social context is argued to be fundamental to the work of probation. Social capital is no less important than human capital in achieving desistance. The skills and values of social work continue to inform probation because they match up to the demands of the job. Reaffirming connections between the professions would enhance the policy and practices of both.
Endothelial lincRNA-p21 alleviates cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by maintaining blood-brain barrier integrity
Authors: Zhao Yun-Hua , Liang Yu , Wang Kang-Ji , Jin Sheng-Nan , Yu Xiao-Meng , Zhang Qian , Wei Jia-Yi , Liu Hui , Fang Wen-Gang , Zhao Wei-Dong , Li Yuan , Chen Yu-Hua
Published: April 2024

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption is increasingly recognized as an early contributor to the pathophysiology of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, and is also a key event in triggering secondary damage to the central nervous system. Recently, long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) have been found to be associated with ischemic stroke. However, the roles of lncRNA in BBB homeostasis remain largely unknown. Here, we report that long intergenic non-coding RNA-p21 (lincRNA-p21) was the most significantly down-regulated lncRNA in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) after oxygen and glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) treatment among candidate lncRNA, which were both sensitive to hypoxia and involved in atherosclerosis. Exogenous brain-endothelium-specific overexpression of lincRNA-p21 could alleviate BBB disruption, diminish infarction volume and attenuate motor function deficits in middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R) mice. Further results showed that lincRNA-p21 was critical to maintain BBB integrity by inhibiting the degradation of junction proteins under MCAO/R and OGD/R conditions. Specifically, lincRNA-p21 could inhibit autophagy-dependent degradation of occludin by activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. Besides, lincRNA-p21 could inhibit VE-cadherin degradation by binding with miR-101-3p. Together, we identify that lincRNA-p21 is critical for BBB integrity maintenance, and endothelial lincRNA-p21 overexpression could alleviate cerebral I/R injury in mice, pointing to a potential strategy to treat cerebral I/R injury.
Intramural coronary artery and myocardial pathology in captive tigers (Panthera tigris) and African lions (Panthera leo)
Authors: Makii Rebecca L. , Muñoz Gutiérrez Juan
Published: April 2024

There is limited published data regarding cardiovascular disease in nondomestic felid populations. To address this knowledge gap, necropsy cases of tigers and lions with representative myocardial samples submitted to a diagnostic laboratory were histologically assessed with hematoxylin and eosin and Sirius red stains. A total of 32 submissions (15 tigers, 17 lions) were identified in a 4-year period. All tigers and lions had some degree of coronary artery lesions in the left ventricle and/or interventricular septum. Major findings included moderate to marked arteriosclerosis in 8 tigers (53%) and 4 lions (24%) and moderate to marked perivascular fibrosis in 10 tigers (67%) and 9 lions (53%). Moreover, 10 tigers (67%) and 8 lions (47%) had coronary artery lesions with variable degrees of perivascular cardiomyocyte degeneration and/or loss. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing coronary artery pathology in captive tigers and lions.
Toward a Better Understanding of the Construction Impacts of a Light Rail System in Montréal, Canada
Authors: James Megan , Rodrigue Lancelot , El-Geneidy Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Large-scale transport infrastructure projects generate long-lasting changes in the built environment and alter the lives of nearby residents. It is crucial to understand public perceptions of public-transit projects and associated construction impacts, as they influence the social acceptance and eventual success of such projects. To characterize the construction-phase experiences of a new light rail in Montréal, Canada—the Réseau express métropolitain (REM)—we analyzed data from 1,236 respondents from the Greater Montréal region who self-reported ongoing construction activities near their homes. This study employs an exploratory factor and k-means cluster analysis to group residents by their different experiences and perceptions of the REM and its associated construction impacts. The analysis returned five clusters with distinct construction experiences: construction-concerned travelers, REM-critical respondents, neutral travelers, REM enthusiasts, and rerouted travelers. Subsequently, the acceptability of the impacts during the construction phase on each cluster is assessed by comparing perceptions of the impact of neighborhood change on their quality of life and their intention to use the REM. Finally, we derive targeted policy recommendations to help promote increased social acceptability of light-rail transit (LRT) projects, including mitigating disruptions in construction zones, public information campaigns, and inclusive decision-making processes. Findings from this study can benefit policymakers and transport planners as they aim to reduce the disruptions associated with the construction of LRT systems and promote increased social acceptability.
Objectively Measured Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviors Among Older Adults in Assisted Living Facilities: A Scoping Review
Authors: Son Jung Yoen , Woo Seoyoon , Struble Laura M , Marriott Deanna J , Chen Weiyun , Larson Janet L
Published: April 2024

Older adults in assisted living facilities (ALF) are at risk for low physical activity (PA) and high sedentary behavior (SB), both of which place them at risk for negative health outcomes. The purpose of this scoping review was to synthesize evidence describing the volume of device-measured PA/SB, factors associated with PA/SB, and interventions designed to change PA/SB in older adults living in ALF. Twenty articles representing 15 unique studies were identified from eight electronic databases and grey literature. Residents in ALF spent 96–201 min/day in light PA ( n = 2 studies), 1–9.74 min/day in moderate to vigorous PA ( n = 2 studies), and 8.5–11.01 hr/day of SB during waking hours ( n = 3 studies). Factors associated with PA included 16 personal factors ( n = 6 articles), one social factor ( n = 2 articles), and two environmental factors ( n = 2 articles). Factors associated with SB included 14 personal factors ( n = 4 articles) and one social factor ( n = 1 article). No intervention successfully changed PA/SB.
Thermal degradation of self-contained breathing apparatus facepiece lenses under radiant thermal loads
Authors: Kesler Richard
Published: April 2024

The self-contained breathing apparatus is one of the most critical components of the firefighting personal protective ensemble providing protection from potentially toxic gases and products of combustion. Three models of self-contained breathing apparatus facepiece lenses meeting various editions of national standards were exposed to radiant thermal loads of 5, 10, 15, and 20 kW/m2 until thermal degradation resulted in hole formation or the test duration reached 30 min. Thermal damage was documented as time to crazing, bubbling, and hole formation. Temperature was recorded within the facepiece. There were significant differences in times to thermal damage between lenses. The facepiece lens model meeting the 2013 edition of National Fire Protection Association 1981 had significantly longer times to thermal degradation than those meeting older editions of the standard. Maximum temperatures were higher in the facepiece model meeting the 2013 edition of National Fire Protection Association 1981, likely because of the extended time the radiant load was applied.
Exploring the Relationship Between Self-Determination and Economic Hardship Constructs Among Adolescents With and Without Disabilities
Authors: Lombardi Allison R. , Rifenbark Graham G. , Shogren Karrie A. , Taconet Ashley , Hicks Tyler A.
Published: April 2024

In this registered report, we examined interrelationships between established constructs of self-determination and economic hardship using data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2012 (NLTS2012). We tested the hypothesized factor structure of selected NLTS2012 items assessing constructs associated with self-determination (i.e., autonomy, psychological empowerment, and self-realization) using the full sample of youth with and without disabilities. Using latent variable modeling, we explored interrelationships among these constructs and economic hardship across disability and race/ethnicity groups. The self-determination constructs were confirmed, two of which (autonomy and psychological empowerment) resulted in significant inverse relationships with economic hardship. Different patterns emerged for youth with intersecting identities of disability, race, and ethnicity. Findings will inform culturally responsive approaches to transition service delivery that address and reduce systemic barriers, as well as provide support for promoting self-determination skills for all youth.
Health risk assessment of occupational exposure to heavy metals among green space workers in Iran
Authors: Abbaslou Hossein , Ahmadi Jalaldehi Pourya , Kalantary Saba , Azam Kamal , Zanjani Elham , Shahtaheri Seyed Jamaleddin , Khadem Monireh
Published: April 2024

Exposure to heavy metals can result in various adverse health effects. Tehran is rated as one of the world’s most polluted cities. Green space workers are continuously exposed to such pollutants in this city. Thus, this study aimed to estimate the health risks caused by exposure to heavy metals among green space workers. Eighty-eight workers and office personnel in two regions with different air quality levels were chosen for sampling. Air samples were collected using the NIOSH-7300 method and analyzed using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) instrument. The hazard quotient (HQ) and the lifetime cancer risk (LTCR) were calculated to assess carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk levels. The results revealed that the rank order of heavy metals was determined as Zn, Pb, Mn, Ni, Co, and Cd. Workers were subjected to higher concentrations of Ni, Pb, Zn, and Co than office personnel. Furthermore, the Cd, Co, and Zn exposure levels stood significantly higher in region 6 than in region 14. Non-carcinogenic risk levels for all participants fell within the acceptable range. Moreover, no employee had a carcinogenic risk level within the acceptable range when exposed to Cd. Also, 2.3% of individuals demonstrated Ni’s acceptable carcinogenic risk level. Owing unacceptable risk levels, proper interventions are required to minimize occupational exposure to heavy metals. These interventions include optimizing shift schedules, using personal protective equipment, and conducting regular health assessments.
Survival, cumulative hospital days and infectious complications in urgent-start PD compared with urgent-start HD
Authors: Virtanen Jonna , Heiro Maija , Koivuviita Niina , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Järvisalo Mikko J , Tertti Risto , Metsärinne Kaj , Hellman Tapio
Published: April 2024

Background:

Urgent-start peritoneal dialysis (PD) carries a similar efficacy and safety profile compared to urgent-start haemodialysis (HD) but is only sparsely applied due to resource issues and concerns of complication risks. Furthermore, few data exist on adverse outcomes associated with central venous catheter (CVC) insertions in urgent-start HD patients. Thus, we sought to compare patient and dialysis-related outcomes in patients undergoing urgent-start PD or HD.

Methods:

All patients initiating urgent-start PD in a tertiary research hospital in 2005–2018 were included in this retrospective, single-centre, comparative study and matched with urgent-start HD patients of similar age and chronic kidney disease aetiology. All urgent-start PDs were initiated within 72 h after catheter insertion, and urgent-start HDs were performed via a CVC. All analyses were performed at 3 months and at 1 year of follow-up, respectively.

Results:

Thirty-three patients who commenced urgent-start PD and 58 matched urgent-start HD control patients were included. Altogether, 26 patients (29%; PD: 36%, HD 24%) died within the 1-year follow-up, and patient survival was similar at 3 months (hazard ratio (HR): 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.35–3.81, p = 0.82) and at 1 year of follow-up (HR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.30–1.39, p = 0.26) between the study groups. There were no differences in the total kidney replacement therapy (KRT)-related infection rate ( p = 0.66) or cumulative first-year hospital care days ( p = 0.43) between the treatment groups. Altogether, 139 CVCs were inserted during the 1-year follow-up. The number of CVCs per patient was associated with the emergence of blood culture-positive bacteraemia and increased cumulative first-year hospital care days.

Conclusions:

Patient survival, cumulative first-year hospital care days and total KRT-related infection rate at 3 months and 1-year follow-up are similar between urgent-start PD and urgent-start HD patients. Furthermore, CVC insertion rate is associated with incident blood culture-positive bacteraemia and increased cumulative first-year hospital care days.
Bi-level path tracking control of tractor semi-trailers by coordinated active front steering and differential braking
Authors: Yu Huilong , Li Erhang , Corno Matteo , Savaresi Sergio Matteo
Published: April 2024

In recent years, autonomous tractor semi-trailers have been considered a promising solution for transportation on highways, ports, and large logistics centers to improve safety and efficiency. However, due to the complicated dynamics introduced by articulation structure, there are still challenges in achieving high-precision path tracking and stability control for tractor semi-trailers, especially in critical scenarios. In this work, a bi-level path tracking control scheme for the autonomous tractor semi-trailer is proposed. At the higher level, a robust model predictive controller coordinating active front steering and differential braking is devised for addressing path tracking, stability control and robustness for an autonomous tractor semi-trailer. At the lower level, incorporating a logic switching mechanism, the designed optimal braking torque distribution module and the PID-based longitudinal control module prioritize the implementation of differential braking and target speed tracking. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control strategy offers remarkable path tracking performance in three designed testing scenarios.
Variety Is the Spice of Life: Diverse Social Networks Are Associated With Social Cohesion and Well-Being
Authors: Ramos Miguel R. , Li Danying , Bennett Matthew R. , Mogra Unaysah , Massey Douglas S. , Hewstone Miles
Published: April 2024

Both homophily and heterophily are observed in humans. Homophily reinforces homogeneous social networks, and heterophily creates new experiences and collaborations. However, at the extremes, high levels of homophily can cultivate prejudice toward out-groups, whereas high levels of heterophily can weaken in-group support. Using data from 24,726 adults ( M = 46 years; selected from 10,398 English neighborhoods) and the composition of their social networks based on age, ethnicity, income, and education, we tested the hypothesis that a middle ground between homophily and heterophily could be the most beneficial for individuals. We found that network homophily, mediated by perceived social cohesion, is associated with higher levels of subjective well-being but that there are diminishing returns, because at a certain point increasing network homophily is associated with lower social cohesion and, in turn, lower subjective well-being. Our results suggest that building diverse social networks provides benefits that cannot be attained by homogeneous networks.
Exploring host and home country effects on industrial relations in Chinese multinational enterprises – Evidence from Ireland
Authors: Wang Yanyi , Lavelle Jonathan , Gunnigle Patrick
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the industrial relations (IR) experiences of Chinese multinational enterprises (MNE) in Ireland, with particular focus on the impact of host and home country institutions on IR policies and practices. The study adopted a qualitative methodology of semi-structured interviews with managerial respondents from eight Chinese MNEs located in Ireland and personnel in other relevant public and private organisations. Our results indicate that host country IR institutions (e.g. trade unions, employment legislation and government support) largely explain the IR practices of Chinese MNEs in Ireland. This study also identifies home country effects mostly relating to a hierarchical managerial approach and the development of a culture of harmony and collaboration. Finally, our results also call attention to some emerging ‘convergence’ and ‘divergence’ between Chinese MNEs and other MNEs in Ireland in terms of their IR experiences and responses.
Imprints of Holocene aridity variability in the Aegean Sea and interconnections with north-latitude areas
Authors: Noti Alexandra , Geraga Maria , Lourens Lucas J , Iliopoulos Ioannis , Vlachopoulos Andreas G , Papatheodorou George
Published: April 2024

The analysis of the ASTC1 sediment core from the south Aegean Sea region offers critical insights into the complex interplay of geological and climatic factors over the Holocene period. The data reveals fluctuating climatic conditions during the last 8.7 ka as seen through the elemental concentrations obtained by XRF core scanning combined with a qualitative mineral analysis within a robust chronological framework. Short-term fluctuations in both Ti/Al and Zr/Si ratios suggest brief oscillations of increased aridity which partially coincide with the Holocene “Rapid Climate Change” events (RCCs). Among them, the most pronounced in our record are those centered between 8.5–8 ka, 3–2.5 ka (Greek Dark Ages), and 0.6–0.3 ka (Little Ice Age). The arid and humid events identified in the sediment record align with major archaeological periods in Greece, suggesting a potential influence of climatic conditions on the development and decline of civilizations in the region. Moreover, a general arid trend as of 6 ka toward the present was evidenced in our record and aligns with other high-resolution climatic data from the Northern Hemisphere, suggesting climatic teleconnections. Spectral analysis of the ASTC1 record reveals cyclical climate patterns with periodicities of approximately 2500, 1200, and 550 years, which coincide with the Bond and Hallstatt cycles. The phase relation of these cycles in our record, the Greenland ice record, and the North Atlantic Drift ice indices show that colder conditions in the higher latitudes are expressed as events of enhanced aridity in our record and generally in the lower latitudinal regions.
Reassessing clinical presentations of emamectin benzoate poisoning: A comprehensive study
Authors: Pan Chi-Syuan , Lee Chi-Chan , Yu Jiun-Hao , Mu Han-Wei , Hung Dong-Zong , Chen Chun-Hung
Published: April 2024

Background

The mechanism of emamectin benzoate (EMB—a macrocyclic lactone insecticide like abamectin) action involves the disruption of glutamate-gated chloride channels and GABA receptors in insects, leading to paralysis and death. EMB overdose can breach the blood–brain barrier, resulting in severe poisoning and altered consciousness.

Aim

Review EMB poisoning presentations in patients and reevaluate clinical manifestations.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study reviewed (August 31, 2008–August 31, 2023) medical university hospital records. We analyzed symptoms, patient characteristics, vital signs, Glasgow Coma Scale scores, laboratory findings, and outcomes.

Results

Ten patients (males: 6, females: 4, median age = 64.5 years) experienced EMB poisoning. Common symptoms included sore throat, gastrointestinal distress, dyspnea, and altered consciousness; two patients showed laryngeal corrosive injuries. Management involved activated charcoal administration, gastric lavage, and intensive care unit admission.

Discussion

Sore throat and corrosive injuries were distinctive presentations of EMB poisoning, warranting vigilance. Potential mechanisms of corrosive injury include skin and eye irritation effects of EMB, the solvents of which might exert corrosive action.

Conclusion

EMB poisoning manifests as diverse symptoms, including sore throat, gastrointestinal symptoms, central nervous system depression, and potential aspiration pneumonia. Recognizing and promptly managing EMB poisoning are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and minimizing complications.
The effect of experts on attitude change in public-facing political science: Scientific communication on term limits in the United States
Authors: Houck Aaron M. , King Aaron S. , Taylor J. Benjamin
Published: April 2024

How can scientists best inform the public and change attitudes? Does the message or the messenger matter more? We test the effect of scientific expert messengers and messages in a preregistered, nationally representative survey experiment in the United States. Consistent with our hypotheses, scientists can move public attitudes in areas where knowledge is based on a non-ideological misperception to a greater extent than the same science-based message from another source. Although we focus on political science as a field and Congressional term limits in the United States as a topic area, our findings have broader implications for science communication with policymaking relevance given the persistence of misperceptions among the public across all natural and social science research fields.
The Representation of Giving Actions: Event Construction in the Service of Monitoring Social Relationships
Authors: Tatone Denis , Csibra Gergely
Published: April 2024

Giving is a unique attribute of human sharing. In this review, we discuss evidence attesting to our species’ preparedness to recognize interactions based on this behavior. We show that infants and adults require minimal cues of resource transfer to relate the participants of a giving event in an interactive unit (A gives X to B) and that such an interpretation does not systematically generalize to superficially similar taking events, which may be interpreted in nonsocial terms (A takes X). We argue that this asymmetry, echoed in language, reveals the operations of a mechanism of event construction where participant roles are encoded only when they are crucial to rendering an action teleologically well-formed. We show that such a representation of giving allows people to monitor the direction (who gave to whom) and kind (what was given) of resource transfer within a dyad, suggesting that giving may be interpreted as indicative of a relationship based on long-term balance. As this research suggests, advancing the study of the prelinguistic representation of giving has implications for cognitive linguistics, by clarifying the relation between event participants and syntactic arguments, as well as social cognition, by identifying which kinds of relational inferences people draw from attending to acts of sharing.
The Role of m6A-Mediated DNA Damage Repair in Tumor Development and Chemoradiotherapy Resistance
Authors: Qu Li , Liu Si jian , Zhang Ling , Liu Jia Feng , Zhou Ying Jie , Zeng Peng Hui , Jing Qian Cheng , Yin Wen Jun
Published: April 2024

Among the post-transcriptional modifications, m6A RNA methylation has gained significant research interest due to its critical role in regulating transcriptional expression. This modification affects RNA metabolism in several ways, including processing, nuclear export, translation, and decay, making it one of the most abundant transcriptional modifications and a crucial regulator of gene expression. The dysregulation of m6A RNA methylation-related proteins in many tumors has been shown to lead to the upregulation of oncoprotein expression, tumor initiation, proliferation, cancer cell progression, and metastasis.Although the impact of m6A RNA methylation on cancer cell growth and proliferation has been extensively studied, its role in DNA repair processes, which are crucial to the pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer, remains unclear. However, recent studies have shown accumulating evidence that m6A RNA methylation significantly affects DNA repair processes and may play a role in cancer drug resistance. Therefore, a comprehensive literature review is necessary to explore the potential biological role of m6A-modified DNA repair processes in human cancer and cancer drug resistance.In conclusion, m6A RNA methylation is a crucial regulator of gene expression and a potential player in cancer development and drug resistance. Its dysregulation in many tumors leads to the upregulation of oncoprotein expression and tumor progression. Furthermore, the impact of m6A RNA methylation on DNA repair processes, although unclear, may play a crucial role in cancer drug resistance. Therefore, further studies are warranted to better understand the potential biological role of m6A-modified DNA repair processes in human cancer and cancer drug resistance.
Consistency and Sustainability of Home Health Agency Patient Experience Star Rating Performance and the Association With Joint Commission Accreditation
Authors: Schmaltz Stephen P. , Patrianakos Jamie , Longo Beth Ann , Williams Scott C.
Published: April 2024

Accreditation seeks to improve the quality of health care, 1 dimension of which is patient experience. The Home Health Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Practitioners and Systems (HHCAHPS) survey collects patient care experience data in home health agencies (HHAs). This study examined the association between accreditation and the consistency and sustainability of high patient experience ratings between Joint Commission (TJC)-accredited and non-TJC accredited HHAs. This multi-year observational study analyzed HHCAHPS star rating performance data from 2015 to 2019. The 5 measures included are based on the 3 publicly reported composite measures, the global measure, and a Star Summary measure. Each measure receives a star rating from 1 to 5. A total of 7230 HHAs reported star rating data between 2015 and 2019, with 4099 (56.7%) having data spanning all 5 years. Of these, 959 (23.4%) were TJC-accredited and 3140 (76.6%) were not. A star rating score of 4 or 5 was considered high performing. TJC-accredited (vs non-TJC accredited) organizations had a higher proportion of HHAs with all 5 years with a high rating ( p < .05 for all measures). Among those HHAs who were in the top rating category the previous year, TJC-accredited (vs non-TJC accredited) HHAs had an even higher probability of sustaining the top rating category in the current year ( p < .001 for all measures). These findings suggest that TJC accreditation is associated with consistently high HHCAHPS star ratings over time. This association was strongest for the Specific Care Issues measure where the concepts addressed by the measure overlapped with topics addressed by accreditation standards.
The Association Between ADHD in Adolescence and Injury in Early Adulthood in Israel: A Nationwide Historical Cohort Study
Authors: Tiruneh Abebe , Radomislensky Irina , Shlaifer Amir , Talmy Tomer , Almog Ofer , Rotschield Jacob ,   ITG, Katorza Eldad , Benov Avi , Avital Guy
Published: April 2024

Objective:

To examine the association between late adolescence ADHD and the risk of serious injury in early adulthood.

Method:

A nationwide cohort study utilizing data from the Military Health Examinations Database for potential military recruits (age 16.5–18 years), cross-referenced with the Israeli National Trauma Registry (2008–2020). Individuals with and without ADHD (mild/severe) were compared for early adulthood injury risk using Cox models.

Results:

This study compared 76,403 participants with mild ADHD (18.76%) and 330,792 without (81.24%), alongside 2,835 severe ADHD participants (1.11%) versus 252,626 without (98.89%). Adjusted hazard ratios for injury-related hospitalization were 1.27 (95% CI [1.17, 1.37]) for mild ADHD and 1.40 (95% CI [1.09, 1.79]) for severe ADHD, compared to non-ADHD.

Conclusions:

Adolescents with ADHD, regardless of severity, had a significantly higher risk of hospitalization due to injury that persists into early adulthood, underscoring the importance of recognizing ADHD as an injury risk and incorporating it into injury prevention strategies.
Zinc Phenolsulfonate
Authors: Tucker Regina , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Cohen David E. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Rettie Alan , Ross David , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Tilton Susan , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: April 2024

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety reviewed newly available studies since their original assessment in 1986 and a previous re-review in 2004, along with updated information regarding product types and concentrations of use. Considering this information, the Panel confirmed that Zinc Phenolsulfonate is safe as a cosmetic ingredient in the present practices of use and concentration as described in this report.
The Potential Role of Phytochemicals of Juniperus procera in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer and the Inhibition of Human Topoisomerase II Alpha Activity
Authors: Al-Zahrani Ateeq A
Published: April 2024

A variety of active chemicals found in medicinal plants can be used to develop new medications with few adverse effects. In vitro and in silico analyses were used to evaluate the anticancer properties of Juniperus procera fruit and leaf extracts. Here, we show that the methanolic extract from J procera fruit and leaf extracts inhibits 2 human ovarian cancer cell lines, A2780CP and SKOV-3. The leaf extract demonstrated strong cytotoxicity against A2780CP with an IC50 of 1.2 μg/mL, almost matching the IC50 of the anticancer medication doxorubicin (0.9 μg/mL). Higher antioxidant activity was observed in the fruit than leaf extract. The molecular docking results showed that the active component, podocarpusflavone A, was the best-docked chemical with the human topoisomerase II alpha enzyme. According to our knowledge, this is the first in vitro study to show the cytotoxicity of J procera extracts against the 2 previously described human ovarian cancer cell lines. The fact that the podocarpusflavone A molecule may have an inhibitory effect on the human topoisomerase II alpha enzyme was also revealed by this first in silico analysis. Our findings imply that the J procera fruit and leaf methanolic extract has anticancer characteristics that may guide future in vivo studies.
The Novel PTX3 Variant g.22645332G>T Is Strongly Related to Awassi and Hamdani Sheep Litter Size
Authors: Imran Faris S , Al-Thuwaini Tahreer M
Published: April 2024

The detection of polymorphisms in genes that control livestock reproduction could be highly beneficial for identifying and enhancing economic traits. One of these genes is pentraxin 3 ( PTX3), which affects the reproduction of sheep. Therefore, this study investigated whether the variability of the PTX3 gene was related to the litter size of Awassi and Hamdani ewes. A total of 200 ewes (130 Awassi and 70 Hamdani) were used for genomic DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify the sequence fragments of exons 1, 2, 3, and 4 from the PTX3 gene (Oar_v4.0; Chr 1, NC_056054.1), resulting in products of 254, 312, 302, and 253, respectively. Two genotypes, GG and GT, were identified for 302 bp amplicon. A novel mutation was discovered through sequence analysis in the GT genotype at position g.22645332G>T. The statistical analysis revealed a significant association between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP g.22645332G>T; Oar_v4.0; Chr 1, NC_056054.1) and litter size. The presence of the SNP g.22645332G>T (Oar_v4.0; Chr 1, NC_056054.1) genotype in ewes resulted in a significant difference compared to ewes with GG genotypes. The discrepancy became apparent in several aspects, including litter sizes, twinning rates, lambing rates, litter weight at birth, and days to lambing. There were fewer lambs born to ewes with the GG genotype than to ewes with the GT genotype. The variant SNP g.22645332G>T (Oar_v4.0; Chr 1, NC_056054.1) has positive effects on the litter size of Awassi and Hamdani sheep. The SNP g.22645332G>T (Oar_v4.0; Chr 1, NC_056054.1 has been associated with an increase in litter size and higher prolificacy in ewes.
Health care delivery of kidney transplantation to indigenous Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand: A qualitative interview study with clinician stakeholders
Authors: Walker Rachael C , Palmer Suetonia C , Abel Sally , Jones Merryn , Walker Curtis , Tipene-Leach David
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Indigenous people experience higher rates of kidney failure than do non-Indigenous Peoples. However, compared to Indigenous patients, health care systems deliver kidney transplantation to non-Indigenous patients at a substantially higher rate and more frequently as the first treatment of kidney failure. Indigenous Māori patients in Aotearoa New Zealand report numerous barriers to kidney transplantation. We explore the perspectives of clinicians as stakeholders in the delivery of kidney transplantation.

Methods

In 2021/2022 we conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with key stakeholder clinicians within kidney transplantation services in Aotearoa New Zealand, asking them about the issues for Māori patients. We used thematic analysis informed by critical theory to identify key findings and used structural coding to categorize the themes at the level of society, health system, and health services.

Results

We interviewed 18 clinicians (nine nephrologists, including two transplant nephrologists, and nine nurses, including six transplant coordinators). We identified nine themes from stakeholders related to delivery of kidney transplantation services to Māori patients and whānau (family), categorized according to three main levels: Firstly, at the level of society (the impact of colonization and distrust). Secondly, the health care system (failure to prevent and manage kidney disease, health care model delivers inequitable outcomes, and inadequate Māori health professional workforce). Thirdly, health care services (transplantation reliant on patient and family resources, complex assessment causes untimely delays, clinical criteria for transplantation, and lack of clinician ability to effect change).

Conclusions

Delivery of kidney transplantation to Indigenous Peoples is impacted at the level of society, health care system, and health care service. To address inequities, a broad approach that addresses each of these levels is required.
Changes of college students’ psychological stress during the COVID-19 pandemic in China: A two-wave repeated survey
Authors: Ye Xinxin , Zhang Junmeng , Liu Huanju , Zheng Xutong , Ye Wan , Fu Wenhai , Zhong Yanxia , Wang Qiansha , Lin Yanni , Huang Cong
Published: April 2024

COVID-19 has posed unprecedented challenges to the mental health of college students worldwide. We examined the trends in students’ stress levels during and after China’s first wave of COVID-19 outbreaks by analyzing their demographics, behavior, mental health status, career confidence, and Chinese Perceived Stress Scale (CPSS) scores. Our findings indicate an increase in students’ stress levels since the COVID-19 onset, with more students experiencing higher stress levels after the first outbreak than during it (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.79, 2.30). Several factors were identified as being associated with higher CPSS scores, including higher class levels, residence in rural or town areas, low family income, and lack of familiarity with COVID-19, among others. Our study highlighted the urgency of developing and implementing effective strategies to cope with students’ stress during and after a global pandemic.
Response of a novel all-solid-state sodium-based-electrolyte battery to quasi-static and dynamic stimuli
Authors: Christoff Bruno G , Marques Denys , Maciel Maísa M , Ataabadi Pouria , Carmo João , Braga Maria H , Guedes Rui M , Alves Marcílio , Tita Volnei
Published: April 2024

In response to growing environmental and economic concerns, developing new technologies prioritising safety, sustainability, and reliability has become imperative. In the energy sector, batteries play an increasingly significant role in applications such as powering electronic devices and vehicles. In this context, lithium-ion batteries have raised environmental concerns, driving the exploration of alternative technologies. Sodium-based batteries have emerged as an attractive option due to their environmental and economic advantages, as well as their potential for multi-functional applications. This study investigates a novel battery developed by a research team at the University of Porto, with a specific focus on its strain-sensing capabilities for potential applications in damage detection of structures. The battery under investigation is a novel all-solid-state design, comprised of a sodium-ion ferroelectric electrolyte and zinc and copper as the negative and positive electrodes, respectively. A series of quasi-static and dynamic tests are conducted to qualitatively assess the piezoelectric behaviour of the battery. The consistent findings show that the battery generates a difference in the electric potential in response to mechanical stimuli, thus confirming its piezoelectric nature. Furthermore, the results demonstrate the battery can accurately detect the operating frequencies of a shaker, despite encountering inherent electromagnetic interference noise from the electrical grid during testing. These promising outcomes highlight the substantial potential of this emerging technology for a wide range of applications, including but not limited to structural health monitoring systems. Given its novelty, this technology presents multi-functional capabilities for diverse practical future applications, such as energy harvesting that leads to self-powered structural health monitoring systems.
Occupational Therapy Using Zones of Regulation™ Concepts: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Peters B. Caitlin , Gabriels Robin , Schmid Arlene A. , Lassell Rebecca K. F. , Pan Zhaoxing , Hoffman Ari , Hepburn Susan
Published: April 2024

There is a lack of peer-reviewed research on occupational therapy using Zones of Regulation™ concepts for autistic youth. The purpose of this article is to describe the feasibility of a newly-developed occupational therapy intervention using Zones of Regulation™ concepts (OT-ZOR) for autistic youth. Specifically, we aimed to evaluate: (a) participant recruitment, retention, and attendance; (b) intervention fidelity, safety, and assessment completion; (c) intervention acceptability; and (d) preliminary participant outcomes. A single-arm feasibility study was completed with outcome measures before and after 10 weeks of OT-ZOR. Fourteen autistic youth ages 6 to 13 completed the study. Youth attended 94% of OT-ZOR sessions. Providers achieved 97% fidelity to the intervention. Occupational therapists and caregivers expressed overall satisfaction with the OT-ZOR intervention. Youth demonstrated significant decreases in irritability, hyperactivity, emotional reactivity, and dysphoria. OT-ZOR is feasible to implement, acceptable to providers and caregivers, and may improve self-regulation in autistic youth.
Measurement of Cerebral Glucose Metabolism in the Visual Cortex Predicts the Prognosis of Hemianopia
Authors: Suzuki Yukihisa , Kiyosawa Motohiro , Ishii Kenji
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective

Homonymous hemianopia caused by cerebrovascular disease may improve over time. This study investigated whether functional neuroimaging can predict the prognosis of hemianopia due to cerebral infarction.

Methods

We studied 19 patients (10 men and 9 women) with homonymous hemianopia and compared them with 34 healthy subjects (20 men and 14 women). Cerebral glucose metabolism was measured by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), 1 to 6 months after the onset. Bilateral regions of interest (ROIs) were selected from the posterior and, anterior striate cortices, extrastriate cortex, and thalamus. Furthermore, semi-quantitative data on cerebral glucose metabolism were obtained for ROIs and compared with the data obtained for homologous regions in the contralateral hemisphere by calculating the ipsilateral/contralateral (I/C) ratio.

Results

The I/C ratio for the cerebral glucose metabolism in the posterior striate cortex was high (>0.750) in 8 patients, and the central visual field of these patients improved or showed macular sparing. The I/C ratio for cerebral glucose metabolism in the anterior striate cortex was high (>0.830) in 7 patients, and the peripheral visual field of these patients improved. However, no improvement was observed in 9 patients with a low I/C ratio for cerebral glucose metabolism in both the posterior and anterior striate cortices.

Conclusion

Measurement of cerebral glucose metabolism in the striate cortex is useful for estimating visual field prognosis. Furthermore, FDG-PET is useful in predicting the prognosis of hemianopia.
Effects of a pulmonary rehabilitation program on pulmonary function, exercise performance, and quality of life in patients with severe COVID-19
Authors: del Valle María Fernanda , Valenzuela Jorge , Bascour-Sandoval Claudio , Marzuca-Nassr Gabriel Nasri , del Sol Mariano , Díaz Canales Constanza , Escobar-Cabello Máximo , Lizama-Pérez Rodrigo , Valenzuela-Aedo Fernando , Muñoz-Cofré Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

Background:

Severe coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) causes acute hypoxemic respiratory failure requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV). Once these symptoms are resolved, patients can present systemic deterioration.

Objective:

The two objectives of this study were as follows: to describe the results of a pulmonary rehabilitation program (PRP), which is divided into three groups with different numbers of sessions (12, 24, and 36), and to associate the variables of pulmonary function, exercise performance, and functionality with the number of sessions and functional improvement.

Design:

Prospective, observational study.

Methods:

PRP consisted of aerobic + strength + flexibility exercises under the supervision and individualized into 12, 24, or 36 sessions (12s, 24s, and 36s), depending on the evolution of each patient. At the beginning of the study and immediately after the intervention, forced vital capacity (FVC), maximal inspiratory pressure, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), sit-to-stand test (STS), maximal handgrip strength (HGS), Fatigue Assessment Scale, Post-COVID-19 Functional Status (PCFS), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were measured.

Results:

The proposed PRP demonstrated a positive effect on pulmonary function, exercise performance, and HRQoL, regardless of the number of sessions. A higher score on the PCFS and more days on IMV were associated with the increased likelihood of needing more sessions, whereas more meters on the 6MWT in the initial evaluation was associated with a reduced likelihood of needing more sessions. Finally, more repetitions on the STS and less distance covered on the initial 6MWT were associated with a greater improvement in exercise performance evaluated with the 6MWT.

Conclusion:

Supervised and individualized PRP for patients with severe post-COVID-19 improves pulmonary function, exercise performance, functionality, and quality of life. Functionality, distance covered on the 6MWT, and the days on IMV are central to the scheduling of the number of sessions for these patients.