bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology-Based Health Promotion Training Among Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: BAL Cansev , KOÇ Zeliha
Published: December 2023

Stroke is a disease with a heavy social and familial care burden that can cause permanent brain damage, long-term disability, and/or death. This study aimed to determine the effect of technology-based health promotion training on the daily life activities, quality of life, and self-care of stroke patients. The study design was a Randomized Controlled Trial. The study sample included persons diagnosed with stroke diagnosed with stroke and were receiving inpatient treatment in the neurology clinic of a university hospital. The sample size was calculated as a total of 70 patients, 35 interventions and 35 controls. The intervention group patients received telephone-based education and follow-up grounded in Orem’s Self-Care Theory over a 12-week period subsequent to their discharge. The educational content was divided into three distinct categories: self-care needs with regard to health deviations, developmental self-care needs, and universal self-care practices. Data were collected using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale, the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale, and the Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale. The Independent Sample T-Test was used for intergroup comparisons, and the Dependent Sample T-Test was used for intragroup pre-test and post-test comparisons. Independent variables affecting the post-test scores, such as age and gender, were analyzed using the multiple linear regression model. The scale sub-dimension variables were compared using the multivariate analysis of variance test according to the groups. When compared with the control group patients after the training, it was determined that there was a statistically significant difference in the intervention group patients’ mean scores for the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale ( t = 11.136, p = .001) and the Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale ( t = 14.358, p = .000). Training interventions led to enhanced awareness and knowledge about stroke among the intervention group patients. They also fostered the development of healthier lifestyle behaviors and bolstered both self-care abilities and quality of life.
A Mobile App to Promote Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy in Preterm Infants’ Mothers: Development and Validation
Authors: Curan Gabriela Ramos Ferreira , do Nascimento Olavo Pereira , Bergamo João Alex de Oliveira , Koga Camila Akemi de Lima , Silva Ricardo Inacio Alvares e , Ferreira Daniel Ramos , Denobi Clarice Borges Lucas , Castral Thaila Correa , Fonseca Luciana Mara Monti , Rossetto Edilaine Giovanini
Published: December 2023

Improving breastfeeding rates is a global goal. To achieve it, actions targeting modifiable factors that influence the breastfeeding experience, such as maternal self-efficacy, could be a promising path, especially with preterm infants’ mothers. Considering the current ubiquitous technology, we developed a mobile application for mothers of preterm infants to constitute a breastfeeding information and support platform. The study was developed in three phases: a survey to determine characteristics and preferences of preterm infants’ mothers; the app development by an interdisciplinary team, following the principles of Disciplined Agile Delivery; and the face and content validation by 10 professionals. The app contains 80 screens and 11 strategies to address prematurity, lactation, breastfeeding, peer support, maternal emotions, resilience, and motivation. Nurses can apply their expertise by designing mHealth-based interventions, employing scientific evidence, and considering the interests and preferences of the target population. Future studies will assess the user experience, the effect on breastfeeding self-efficacy, and breastfeeding rates, and develop a culturally adapted English version of the app for women in Canada.
Fracturing the Lateral Hinge Improves Radiographic Alignment and Does Not Affect Clinical Outcomes of the Minimally Invasive Akin Osteotomy
Authors: Marciano Gerard , Ashinsky Beth G. , Mysore Nishad , Vulcano Ettore
Published: December 2023

Background:

Intraoperative fracture of the lateral cortex is common during Akin osteotomy. In a recent study, lateral cortex fracture did not impede healing or result in loss of correction in a combined cohort of open and percutaneous osteotomies stabilized by K-wire fixation. We hypothesize that undesired lateral cortex fracture will not affect radiographic correction and patient-reported outcomes in a percutaneous cohort stabilized by permanent, rigid screw fixation.

Methods:

Consecutive patients with hallux valgus who underwent first metatarsal osteotomy and percutaneous Akin osteotomy stabilized by permanent, rigid screw fixation between May 2020 and January 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were stratified based on fractured lateral cortex (FC) or its absence (nonfractured cortex [NFC]). Visual analog scale (VAS) and Foot Function Index (FFI) were used to assess pain and patient-reported outcomes at 1-year follow-up. Patients were polled for satisfaction at 1-year follow-up by yes/no survey.

Results:

Ninety-eight patients (89% female) were reviewed (98 feet; 43 NFC, 55 FC). Mean age was 48.3 years (range, 18-83 years). Mean preoperative VAS score was 7.5 and 7.7 in NFC and FC groups, which significantly decreased to 0.6 ( P < .01) and 0.6 ( P < .01), respectively. Mean total FFI was 53.9 and 54.2 and decreased to 17.9 ( P < .01) and 17.2 ( P < .01) in the NFC group and FC group, respectively. Overall, 97.8% of the NFC group and 96.4% of the FC group reported satisfaction. Mean HVA improved from 27.2 (16-42) degrees to 10.7 degrees (4-12) postoperatively in the NFC group. And in the FC group, HVA improved from 29.3 (19-39) degrees to 7.1 (4-12) degrees postoperatively. Postoperative HVA was significantly lower in the FC group ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

In an exclusively percutaneous surgical cohort with correction maintained by rigid screw fixation, fracture of the lateral cortex is associated with improved postoperative radiologic alignment without detriment to patient-reported outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective cohort study.
Pirtobrutinib: A novel non-covalent BTK inhibitor for the treatment of adults with relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Davis Dominique D , Ohana Zahava , Pham Huy M
Published: December 2023

Objective

To provide a comprehensive review of the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and efficacy of a new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi), pirtobrutinib for relapsed/refractory mantle cell lymphoma (r/r MCL).

Data sources

A literature search was conducted through PubMed MEDLINE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the FDA website (January 2018-January 2023) using the following key terms: lymphoma, non-covalent, Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK), and relapse. Relevant English language monographs, studies, and abstracts conducted in humans were reviewed and considered.

Data summary

Pirtobrutinib, a novel non-covalent BTKi, was granted accelerated approval for treatment of r/r MCL on January 27th, 2023, based on an open-label, multi-center phase 1/2 BRUIN trial. In phase l, 61 patients with r/r MCL received seven dose levels of pirtobrutinib (25–300 mg). There was no reported maximum tolerated dose or dose-limiting toxicities during this study period. In phase 2, 56 r/r MCL evaluable efficacy patients received pirtobrutinib 200 mg daily. The overall response rate (ORR) was 52% (95% CI 38–65). Additionally, patients who received a previous covalent BTKi, ORR was 52% (95% CI 38–66). Neutropenia was the most common adverse reaction reported as a grade 3 or higher.

Conclusion

Pirtobrutinib has demonstrated safety and efficacy in heavily pre-treated adult patients with r/r MCL. Advantages of this drug include its usage in patients whose malignancy is resistant to current BTKi, tolerability, and response rate. Multiple clinical trials are underway to determine the efficacy of pirtobrutinib in other B-cell malignancies.
Limit analysis of masonry domes with oculus and lantern: A comparison between different approaches
Authors: Aita Danila , Milani Gabriele , Taliercio Alberto
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to illustrate and compare different approaches for the limit analysis of masonry domes of revolution with an oculus at the top. It specifically focuses on the influence of the limited compressive and tensile strength of masonry on the bearing capacity of the dome. The first assessment is conducted through a semi-analytical formulation that revisits Durand-Claye’s method within the framework of the lower bound theorem of limit analysis. The second investigation is performed using a kinematic approach, which allows for closed-form solutions by exploiting the upper bound theorem of limit analysis and the virtual work theorem. These approaches are applied to a case study that was experimentally tested, involving a hemispherical dome with an oculus. The dome is subjected to its self-weight and a vertical load at the crown. Parametric investigations are presented to compare the results obtained through the proposed methods with those derived from the classical limit analysis of masonry structures, based on Heyman’s hypotheses.
A modified analytical model for the single-fiber pullout problem involving non-classical stress–strain relationships due to residual stresses: Analysis of stress field in the fully bonded region
Authors: Pei Pengyu , Yang Guang , Zhou Jinyu , Lu Junfeng
Published: December 2023

Upon reevaluating the influence of residual stresses generated by thermal mismatches in fibrous composites during the curing process, we introduce a modified model for the extraction of a single fiber from an elastic matrix. In contrast to previous models, which solely factored residual stress effects into the boundary conditions at the fiber–matrix interface while omitting them from the constitutive relations, our current model acknowledges bulk residual stress as finite values. Consequently, it yields non-conventional constitutive relations to describe the incremental deformation caused by external pulling forces. We have developed a practical semi-analytical series solution for the radial displacement of the matrix and an exact solution for the radial displacement of the fiber. To validate our modified model, we simplify it to a scenario where the influence of residual stress on the stress–strain relationship is excluded and compare it with results from existing literature. This comparison underscores the soundness of our modified model. We present a phase diagram to illustrate how the impact of residual stress on stress field prediction varies based on the ratio of the fiber modulus to the matrix modulus. This phase diagram serves as a valuable tool for evaluating whether it is advisable to transition from the previous mechanical model, which disregards the influence of residual stress on the stress–strain relationship, to the new model, which takes this influence into account within the stress–strain relationship.
Mutagenicity Assessment of Homologous Series of Methyl Ester Sulphonates (MES) Using the Bacterial Reverse Mutation (Ames) Test
Authors: Yusof Yusrabbil Amiyati , Azizul Hasan Zafarizal Aldrin , Abd Maurad Zulina
Published: December 2023

Methyl ester sulphonate (MES) is an anionic surfactant that is suitable to be used as an active ingredient in household products. Four palm-based MES compounds with various carbon chains, namely C12, C14, C16 and C16/18 MES, were assayed by the in vitro bacterial reverse mutation (Ames) test in the Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, TA100, TA1535, and TA1537 and the Escherichia coli strain WP2 uvrA, with the aim of establishing the safety data of the compounds, specifically their mutagenicity. The test was also carried out on linear alkylbenzene sulphonate (LAS) for comparison. The plate incorporation method was conducted according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Test Guideline 471. All compounds were tested at five analysable non-cytotoxic concentrations, varying from .001 mg/plate to 5 mg/plate, with and without S-9 metabolic activation. All tested concentrations showed no significant increase in the number of revertant colonies compared to revertant colonies of the negative control. The Ames test indicated that each concentration of C12, C14, C16, C16/18 MES, and LAS used in this study induced neither base-pair substitutions nor frame-shift mutations in the S. typhimurium strains TA98, TA100, TA1535, and TA1537 and the E. coli strain WP2 uvrA. The results showed that C12, C14, C16 and C16/18 MES have no potential mutagenic properties in the presence and absence of S-9 metabolic activation, similarly to LAS. Therefore, the MES is safe to be used as an alternative to petroleum-based surfactants for household cleaning products.
The Radiological and Histological Phenotype of Skeletal Abnormalities in Fetal ARCN1-Related Syndrome
Authors: Houck Charlotte A. , Koopmans Marije , Nikkels Peter G. J.
Published: December 2023

Mutations in ARCN1 give rise to a syndromic disorder with rhizomelic short stature with microretrognathia and developmental delay. ARCN1 encodes the delta subunit of the coat protein I complex, which is required for intracellular trafficking of collagen 1 and which may also be involved in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response. In this paper we describe for the first time the skeletal histological abnormalities in an 18-week-old fetus with an ARCN1 mutation, and we suggest that the skeletal phenotype in ARCN1-related syndrome has more resemblance with ER stress than with a defect in collagen 1 metabolism.
The relationships between spoken and written input beyond the classroom and young EFL learners’ proficiency
Authors: Tsang Art
Published: December 2023

The present mixed-methods study was an inductive investigation of 8-to-12-year-old English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) children’s English input received beyond the classroom (IBC) in Hong Kong. Individual interviews, with an inductive co-constructive approach, were conducted with the participating children’s parents/guardians ( n = 173) to elicit their IBC. The children completed four proficiency tests (listening, reading, speaking, and writing), the scores of which were analysed with their IBC. Medium to large effects were found in correlations between various aspects of IBC and proficiency. Spoken IBC (i.e. exposure to spoken English) generally showed stronger associations with proficiency than written IBC (i.e. exposure to written English) did. Regression analyses demonstrated that both types of IBC were significant predictors, explaining 25% of the variance in proficiency. There were large to very large differences in proficiency between children receiving abundant IBC and little/no IBC. Intriguingly, only specific types of IBC were found to relate to differences in proficiency. The article ends with a discussion of these findings.
Embedding a domestic violence specialist in a police station: Police perspectives and engagement
Authors: Rodgers Jess , Carrington Kerry , Ryan Vanessa , Carr Regan
Published: December 2023

This article discusses the findings of an evaluation of the co-location of a domestic violence specialist embedded in a regional police station in Queensland, Australia. With widespread police failures in the response to domestic and family violence (DFV), innovation is critical. There is mounting evidence that DFV victim-survivors are more satisfied when police respond collaboratively with specialist DFV workers, but police support is critical for translation to broad practice. Using a range of data sources, our evaluation found three key benefits of co-location: strengthening of victim support, improved integrated response and enhancement of police practice. This article adds new knowledge about integrated responses to domestic violence, particularly where there are evidence gaps in police perspectives. In view of these findings, implications for practice support further implementation of co-locational responses in Australia.
An exploration of why gaming communities may make younger and non-normative gamers vulnerable to Internet Gaming Disorder
Authors: Gandolfi Enrico , Ferdig Richard E , Krause Karlie , Soyturk Ilker , Morris Grace , Delahanty Sarah
Published: December 2023

Existing literature has primarily evaluated how exposure to video game content impacts social and behavioral functioning. However, the parameters of video game engagement have expanded with multiplayer online gaming, live streaming, and community discussion on social media platforms. This study sought to examine how participation in online gaming communities is associated with problematic gaming behaviors and symptoms of Internet gaming disorder (IGD). A sample of 1176 gamers completed an online survey investigating game habits, community involvement, and gaming preferences as measured by both the Game Community of Inquiry Scale (GCoIS) and the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short form (IGDS9-SF). Results from a multiple hierarchical regression indicated several predictors of problematic gaming, including both community attractiveness and community receptiveness. Moreover, data showed that younger gamers and non-normative gamers were more vulnerable to problematic gaming and more severe symptoms of IGD.
Analysis of news credibility in the digital press. Source types have a limited effect, while age, gender, and education are differential factors
Authors: Martí-Danés Aleix , Besalú Reinald , Pont-Sorribes Carles , Gómez-Puertas Lorena
Published: December 2023

Studies of the credibility of sources is a key research focus in the communication field, especially in journalism. Given the increase in misinformation as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, source credibility is crucial for people to contrast news stories in an infodemic context. Our research, based on a demographic study ( N = 2007) carried out in Spain during the COVID-19 pandemic, used a multifactor news credibility indicator to explore how different types of sources affected the perceived credibility of a fake news item on COVID-19 in the written digital press format. We also performed a cluster analysis to determine the subgroups profiled according to key sociodemographic variables (age, gender, and education). Our results indicate that expert and political sources had a null effect on news credibility, while citizen and celebrity sources had a clear negative effect. Furthermore, our fake news story that did not cite sources was awarded a positive level of credibility. We also found that age, gender, and education level were statistically significant in their association with news credibility.
Mission partly accomplished: European Union Politics at 25
Authors: Invernizzi Alessia , Klöckner Ann-Cathrin , Schneider Gerald
Published: December 2023

In this article, we analyze how European Union Politics has evolved over the last 25 years. Our analysis demonstrates that the goals the editorial team has pursued over this quarter century have only partly been reached. While the journal has helped to consolidate EU studies as a field of research in its own rights, several problems of representation persist in the journal and the social sciences in general. We identify besides the well-known gender gap that especially authors from the (European) South and East continue to be underrepresented in submitted and published articles. While less represented and successful at the submission stage, our results show that female scholars are more likely than male author teams to publish high-impact articles. Our findings indicate that studies of political behavior, broadly conceived, and articles using quantitative methods are well-represented. The article concludes with some remarks on how the journal might help to further professionalize the study of the EU in the coming years.
Humor-Based Messaging in Testicular Cancer Awareness Campaigns: A Comparative Critical Review
Authors: Rovito Michael J. , Allen Keri K. , Perez Andres G. , Albaladejo Freddy , Craycraft Mike
Published: December 2023

Extensive research showcases the extent and efficacy of humor-based messaging in general health promotion. However, the work describing humor’s use within testicular cancer (TC) awareness is less developed. The aim of this comparative critical review was to determine the impact of using humor-based messaging in TC awareness campaigns to achieve a baseline assessment from which future research can be modeled. A literature search was conducted using seven databases to locate relevant literature. Three research questions guided this investigation: (1) To what extent has humor been used in TC awareness campaigns? (2) What does the literature reveal about the use of humor-based messaging on relevant health outcomes? (3) What are the limitations within current TC awareness strategies? Six studies were included in the review, of which three directly assessed the use of humor in TC awareness vis-à-vis intervention designs. Humor-based strategies were implemented to enhance knowledge of TC and testicular self-examination (TSE) procedures, reduce anxiety surrounding detection threat, and promote TSE. The rhetoric provided to men via various health interventions relied on humor and slang to promote TSE among males. Despite the small sample size of the included studies, this review determined that humor may be useful in reducing uncomfortable feelings surrounding TSE, increasing awareness of TC, and promoting TSE. When using humor-based messaging, however, the audience and type of humor implemented must be considered. Limited research exists assessing the long-term impact humor in TC promotion on health behavioral changes, easing anxieties related to detection, and increased self-efficacy surrounding TSE.
Arthroscopic-Assisted Treatment of Bennett Fractures: A Potentially Advantageous Operative Procedure?
Authors: Torres Fuentes Carlos Eduardo , Meneses Argalle Julian David , Romero León Carol Andrea
Published: December 2023

Background:

Articular fractures of the base of the first metacarpal (Bennett fractures) have been studied for years to determine the best method of reduction and fixation. This study aims to show the application of the percutaneous reduction and internal fixation technique with cannulated screws and arthroscopic assistance in articular fractures of the base of the first metacarpal.

Methods:

Descriptive cohort study in a series of 30 patients, the first cohort in our country and the largest series published so far, in which 8 patients presented with type 2A fracture and 19 patients with type 2B of the Torres-Becerra classification underwent the mentioned technique under direct vision and control of the articular reduction by arthroscopy evaluating the intraoperative characteristics of the articular surface, stability of de reduction and fixation. Assessment of functional and rehabilitation results with a minimum postoperative follow-up of 6 to 12 months.

Results:

The senior author has used this technique with consistent clinical outcomes to improve reduction and fixation of intra-articular base fractures of first metacarpal bone (Bennett), reducing the articular step-off and gapping permitting an early rehabilitation progress with satisfactory functional results.

Conclusions:

We can suggest that this surgical method for the treatment of Bennett fractures may offer multiple advantages: adequate debridement of the trapeziometacarpal joint, direct visualization of the articular surface during reduction, achieving greater precision in fixation with minimum morbidity, imperceptible incisions and scars, shorter surgical time, and fewer associated complications.
Reperfusion therapies for ischemic stroke in dementia and cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bala Fouzi , Betzner William , Beland Benjamin , McDonald Jennifer S , Ganesh Aravind
Published: December 2023

Background:

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) and intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) have an unclear benefit in those with pre-stroke dementia or cognitive impairment, as these patients were often excluded from landmark stroke trials. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the outcomes of IVT and EVT in these populations.

Aims:

Our systematic review, conforming to the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines, investigated studies on acute ischemic stroke patients with pre-stroke dementia or cognitive impairment treated with IVT or EVT. Primary outcome was favorable 90-day outcome (mRS 0–2). Secondary outcomes included 90-day mortality, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH), and radiographic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH).

Summary of review:

Nine articles were identified, with five observational studies of IVT use in patients with (n = 1078) and without dementia (n = 2805) being selected for the meta-analysis. There were no significant differences in favorable outcome (adjusted OR: 0.61, 95% CI 0.24–1.59), mortality (unadjusted OR: 1.19, 95% CI 0.86–1.64), ICH (unadjusted OR: 1.32, 95% CI 0.79–2.19), and symptomatic ICH (unadjusted OR: 0.94, 95% CI 0.70–1.25) for patients undergoing IVT with pre-stroke dementia versus those without. One EVT study (n = 615 with dementia vs n = 9600 without) found no significant differences in outcomes apart from an increased odds of ICH for those with pre-existing dementia (adjusted OR: 1.57, 95% CI 1.03–2.40). A pooled analysis of three IVT studies showed no significant association of cognitive impairment (n = 93 vs n = 211 without) with all assessed outcomes, whereas a study of EVT found that pre-stroke cognitive impairment was associated with poor 90-day outcomes (mRS 3–6).

Conclusion:

These results suggest no substantial safety issues in the use of IVT or EVT for patients with pre-existing dementia or cognitive impairment compared to those without. However, the efficacy of these therapies in this demographic remains uncertain. Further rigorous studies that include a more nuanced outcome measurement approach are warranted.

Registration:

URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ ; Unique identifier: CRD42021240499.
Acacetin protects against sepsis-induced acute lung injury by facilitating M2 macrophage polarization via TRAF6/NF-κB/COX2 axis
Authors: Chang Binbin , Wang Zhang , Cheng Hui , Xu Tingyuan , Chen Jieyu , Wu Wan , Li Yizhi , Zhang Yong
Published: December 2023

Acute lung injury (ALI) is the leading cause of death in patients with sepsis syndrome and without effective protective or therapeutic treatments. Acacetin, a natural dietary flavonoid, reportedly exerts several biological effects, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative effects. However, acacetin's effect and underlying mechanism on sepsis-induced ALI remain unclear. Here, the mouse model was established to explore the impact of acacetin on sepsis-induced ALI. Acacetin significantly increased ALI murine survival and attenuated lung injury in histological examinations. Additionally, acacetin down-regulated myeloperoxidase activity, protein concentration, and number of neutrophils and macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Subsequently, inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, were examined. Results showed that acacetin dramatically suppressed the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. These above results indicated that acacetin attenuated sepsis-induced ALI by inhibiting the inflammatory response. Moreover, acacetin inhibited the expression of markers for M1-type (iNOS, CD86) macrophages and promoted the expression of markers for M2-type (CD206, Arg1) macrophages by western blot. In addition, acacetin down-regulated the expression TRAF6, NF-κB, and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) by western blot. The high concentration of acacetin had a better effect than the low concentration. Besides, over-expression of TRAF6 up-regulated the expression of COX2, CD86, and iNOS, and the ratio of p-NF-κB to NF-κB increased the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, down-regulated the expression of CD206 and Arg1. The effects of TRAF6 were the opposite of acacetin. And TRAF6 could offset the impact of acacetin. This study demonstrated that acacetin could prevent sepsis-induced ALI by facilitating M2 macrophage polarization via TRAF6/NF-κB/COX2 axis.
Improving complaint handling service with a qualitative approach: A public sector case
Authors: Prasasti Indah Pangestu Murni , ER Mahendrawathi , Sonhaji Agus Imam , Nurkasanah Ika
Published: December 2023

Public sector organisations must continuously improve the quality of their services. To do so, they must pay attention to their activities to provide value to citizens, that is, their business processes. A system redesign carried out with business process guides can provide more targeted results. This teaching case is based on the Surabaya City Office for Population Administration and Civil Registration (COPACR), an agency responsible for handling population administration and civil registration issues in the city of Surabaya, Indonesia. The case describes the problems in the complaint service business process and how to address them by redesigning the business process using a qualitative approach. The complaint service process redesign begins with an analysis of the existing (as-is) complaint service process. This is followed by documenting and identifying the root cause of the problems. Ideas were developed to redesign the complaint service process to solve the root cause of the existing problems. This case demonstrates the redesigning of business processes leading to improvements in the public sector.
Nationwide research on the uses and motivations of dating apps by young adults in the cultural environment of Turkey
Authors: Sunam Audry Aylin , Bas Ozen , İnceoğlu İrem , Kaya Yiğit Bahadır , Cöbek Gözde , Alkurt Saygın Vedat
Published: December 2023

Since Tinder's worldwide popularity, location-based dating apps have become widespread. The existing literature mainly focuses on a single app in European and US contexts and pays little attention to other cultural contexts. This paper addresses this gap by examining dating app choices and motivations of young adults (18–29 years old) in Turkey. It examines the intersectionality of socio-demographic variables in a cultural setting that is quite different not only from European and US contexts but also from other Muslim-majority contexts. Deriving from the nationally representative survey ( n = 1,498), our research finds statistically significant differences in dating app preferences and adults’ motivations regarding location, sexual, gender, and religious identities. This study underlines the crucial role of cultural geography and its social fabric in mobile dating, even within the same national setting .
Long-term effects of deep-learning digital therapeutics on pain, movement control, and preliminary cost-effectiveness in low back pain: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Park Chanhee , Yi Chunghwi , Choi Woochol Joseph , Lim Hyo-Sang , Yoon Han Ul , You Sung (Joshua) Hyun
Published: December 2023

Objective

The present study aimed to compare the effects of a deep learning–based digital application with digital application physical therapy (DPT) and those of conventional physical therapy (CPT) on back pain intensity, limited functional ability, lower extremity weakness, radicular symptoms, limited range of motion (ROM), functional movement, quality of life, cost-effectiveness, and postintervention questionnaires for perceived transmission risk of COVID-19 and satisfaction results in 100 participants with low back pain (LBP).

Methods

One hundred participants with LBP were randomized into either DPT or CPT groups, three times per week over four weeks. Outcome measures included the (1) Oswestry Disability Index, (2) Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale, (3) Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ), (4) Numeric Pain Rating Scale, (5) functional movement screen (FMS), (6) short form-12, (7) lower extremity strength, (8) ROM of trunk flexion, extension, and bilateral side bending, (9) questionnaires for perceived transmission risk of COVID-19, (10) preliminary cost-effectiveness, and (11) postintervention satisfaction questionnaire results. The analysis of variance was conducted at p < 0.05.

Results

Analysis of variance showed that DPT showed superior effects, compared to CPT on RMDQ, hip extensor strength, transmission risk of COVID-19, as well as satisfaction. Both groups showed significant improvement pre- and postintervention, suggesting that DPT is as effective as CPT, and was superior in preliminary cost-effectiveness and transmission risk of COVID-19.

Conclusions

Our results provide novel, promising clinical evidence that DPT was as effective as CPT in improving structural and functional impairment, activity limitation, and participation restriction. Our results highlight the successful incorporation of DPT intervention for clinical outcome measures, lower extremity strength, trunk mobility, ADL improvement, QOL improvement, and FMS in LBP.
Alcohol diagnostic validation for injury-related trauma: Findings from a pilot study
Authors: Prinsloo Megan , Petersen Williams Petal , Neethling Ian , Mhlongo Shibe X , Maqungo Sithombo , Peden Margaret M , Parry Charles , Matzopoulos Richard
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Alcohol consumption is a key driver of the burden of violence and injury in South Africa (SA). Hence, we aim to validate various alcohol assessment tools against a blood test to assess their utility for improving national health practice and policy.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional pilot study from 3 to 19 August 2022 at Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town, SA. This was to test logistics for the time of venous blood centrifugation and validation of alcohol assessment tools used in injured patients ahead of the main validation study. Adults aged 18 years and older, who were injured <8 h before arrival were included. Consent was obtained for venous blood alcohol testing to validate, as the gold standard, against the following: active- and passive breath alcohol testing, clinical screening and a finger prick test. Descriptive statistics were reported for the pilot study.

Results

The active breath alcohol test's digital reading and the passive test's ‘yes/no’ results corresponded well against the venous blood alcohol results. The average time to centrifugation was within the laboratory's 2-h cut-off requirement to preserve the alcohol in the serum.

Discussion and Conclusion

The pilot study was helpful in identifying challenges with one of the alcohol assessment tools and prevented further costs ahead of the main validation study. We also determined that the selected tertiary hospital site caused a delay in recruiting eligible patients due to other hospital referrals. Hence, the main validation study is in progress at a district-level hospital for a larger sample of eligible patients for testing.
Designing digital nature for older adults: A mixed method approach
Authors: van Houwelingen-Snippe Josca , Ben Allouch Somaya , van Rompay Thomas J. L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Loneliness and social isolation are pressing issues that can seriously impact the mental health and well-being of older adults. Interacting with nature can stimulate a feeling of connectedness. However, for older adults, access to nature is often troublesome because of physical limitations and mobility restrictions.

Methods

In the present mixed-method study, 37 older adults (62–99 years old) with varying care needs and mobility restrictions watched a video presenting a walkthrough of a simulated digital nature landscape.

Results

Quantitative results show a significant increase in social connectedness scores and enhanced peacefulness after experiencing a digital nature. Qualitative results stress the importance of variations in nature scenery and highlight the influence of contextual and person-related factors including nature experiences throughout the life span and mobility constraints that older adults may face.

Conclusion

These findings testify to the potential of using digital nature as a complementary strategy when interactions with outdoor nature become increasingly difficult due to old age.
Diurnal cardio-respiratory changes in ambulatory individuals deciphered using a multi-parameter wearable device
Authors: Nachman Dean , Eisenkraft Arik , Kolben Yotam , Carmon Erez , Hazan Esther , Goldstein Nir , Ben Ishay Arik , Hershkovitz Mor , Fons Meir , Merin Roei , Amir Offer , Asleh Rabea , Gepner Yftach
Published: December 2023

Background

Recent technological developments enable big data-driven insights on diurnal changes. This study aimed to describe the trajectory of multiple and advanced parameters using a medical-grade wearable remote patient monitor.

Methods

Parameters were monitored for 24 h in 256 ambulatory participants who kept living their normal life. Parameters included heart rate, blood pressure, stroke volume, cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance, blood oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate. Diurnal variations were evaluated, and analyses were stratified based on sex, age, and body mass index.

Results

All parameters showed diurnal changes ( p < 0.001). Females demonstrated higher heart rate and cardiac index with lower systemic vascular resistance. Obese participants had a higher blood pressure, and lower stroke volume and cardiac index. Systemic vascular resistance was higher among the elderly. Diurnal changes corresponded with awake–sleep hours and differed between sex, age, and body mass index groups.

Conclusion

Wearable monitoring platforms could decipher hemodynamic changes in subgroups of individuals, and might help with efforts to provide personalized medicine, pre-symptomatic diagnosis and prevention, and drug development.
Psychometric Properties of the Brief Strengths Scale-12 in Korean Population
Authors: Lim Young-Jin
Published: December 2023

The goal of this study was to examine the factorial structure, internal consistency, test-retest reliability, criterion validity, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the Brief Strengths Scale-12 (BSS-12) in Korean population. The Korean sample comprised 288 college students (68.1% were female), ranging in age 19 to 30 years (mean age = 21.65 years, SD = 1.98). Results showed that a three-factor model with exploratory structural equation modeling provided a better model fit than the other competing models. Indices of internal consistency reliability, criterion validity, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the BSS-12 were acceptable. These results suggest that the BSS-12 can be used as an effective tool for measuring character strengths in Korean population.
Association of Gratitude With Individual and Organizational Outcomes Among Volunteers: An Application of Broaden-and-Build Theory of Positive Emotions
Authors: Yang Hongcui , Liang Chuqiao , Liang Yue , Yang Ying , Chi Peilian , Zeng Xianglong , Wu Qinglu
Published: December 2023

By applying the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions to the context of volunteering, we investigated how gratitude is associated with individual (subjective well-being) and organizational (volunteer retention) outcomes through the positive thought–action repertoires of prosocial motivation and volunteer engagement. The data of 924 Chinese volunteers (mean age = 35.7 ± 9.1 years, 26.2% males) from voluntary organizations were collected through an online survey. The indirect effects of gratitude on subjective well-being and retention were analyzed through structural equation modeling performed using Mplus. Gratitude was revealed to be associated with subjective well-being and retention through indirect pathways involving (a) prosocial motivation, (b) volunteer engagement, and (c) a sequential pathway from prosocial motivation to volunteer engagement. Our findings indicate that grateful volunteers tend to exhibit increased intention to help others and actively devote themselves to volunteering, which can contribute to personal and organizational resources.
Disaster Preparedness and Safety School as a Conceptual Framework of Comprehensive School Safety
Authors: Widowati Evi , Koesyanto Herry , Istiono Wahyudi , Sutomo Adi Heru , Sugiharto
Published: December 2023

Accidents and disasters can potentially affect most elementary school students. Accordingly, comprehensive school safety is important to ensure children’s safety. This study aimed to identify the key indicators of the minimum standards for Disaster Preparedness and Safety School programs as a conceptual framework of comprehensive school safety in Indonesian elementary schools. This exploratory study was conducted with nine key informants using a qualitative descriptive approach. The data from semi-structured interviews with experts in disaster risk reduction were analyzed using content analysis. This study identified 23 key indicators, namely: commitment, policy and regulation, planning, budgeting, risk assessment, teamwork, coordination, standard operating procedure, technical guideline, monitoring and evaluation, resource mobilization, infrastructures, information system, assembly points, safe zones, sister schools, curriculum integration, integration to learning activities, simulation training programs, trained teachers, dissemination of information, student cadres, and safety competition. There were nine indicators identified as school disaster management pillars, five indicators for safe school facilities, and nine indicators for risk reduction education.
Transcranial Motor Evoked Potentials as a Predictive Modality for Postoperative Deficit in Cervical Spine Decompression Surgery – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Reddy Rajiv P. , Singh-Varma Anya , Chang Robert , Vedire Abhinav , Anetakis Katherine M. , Balzer Jeffrey R. , Crammond Donald J. , Shandal Varun , Lee Joon Y. , Shaw Jeremy D. , Thirumala Parthasarathy D.
Published: December 2023

Study Design

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether transcranial motor evoked potential (TcMEP) alarms can predict postoperative neurologic complications in patients undergoing cervical spine decompression surgery.

Methods

A meta-analysis of the literature was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase to retrieve published reports on intraoperative TcMEP monitoring for patients undergoing cervical spine decompression surgery. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), of overall, reversible, and irreversible TcMEP changes for predicting postoperative neurological deficit were calculated. A subgroup analysis was performed to compare anterior vs posterior approaches.

Results

Nineteen studies consisting of 4608 patients were analyzed. The overall incidence of postoperative neurological deficits was 2.58% (119/4608). Overall TcMEP changes had a sensitivity of 56%, specificity of 94%, and DOR of 19.26 for predicting deficit. Reversible and irreversible changes had sensitivities of 16% and 49%, specificities of 95% and 98%, and DORs of 3.54 and 71.74, respectively. In anterior procedures, TcMEP changes had a DOR of 17.57, sensitivity of 49%, and specificity of 94%. In posterior procedures, TcMEP changes had a DOR of 21.01, sensitivity of 55%, and specificity of 94%.

Conclusion

TcMEP monitoring has high specificity but low sensitivity for predicting postoperative neurological deficit in cervical spine decompression surgery. Patients with new postoperative neurological deficits were 19 times more likely to have experienced intraoperative TcMEP changes than those without new deficits, with irreversible TcMEP changes indicating a much higher risk of deficit than reversible TcMEP changes.
A Biblioguidance Approach to Fostering Students’ Self-Efficacy to Advocate for Health
Authors: Banas Jennifer R. , Gershon Sarah
Published: December 2023

Teaching the components of health advocacy is straightforward, but fostering young people’s self-efficacy to be health advocates for themselves, others, and their community is more complex. This complexity sometimes renders advocating for health, the basis of National Health Education Standard (NHES) #8, challenging to teach. We utilized a pedagogical approach called biblioguidance to teach this skill to 10th-grade students. The premise of biblioguidance, also called bibliotherapy, is that information, guidance, and even solace can be found through reading and vicariously living story events. To implement this approach, we consulted the literature and created a six-step framework to guide the design, development, and evaluation of a health advocacy curriculum, including young adult novels, guided reading prompts, electronic journals, and small group discussions. Our pre/post-assessment, rooted in NHES #8, evaluated the impact on students’ ( N = 168) self-efficacy to health advocate for themselves, others, and the community. Results revealed a significant change ( p < .001), particularly in advocating for community health. Further, the teachers found that the curriculum facilitated the discussion of health-related topics in subsequent units. We will continue using the curriculum but expand it to include opportunities for authentic application and qualitative data evaluation techniques.
Examining the impact of neighborhood environment factors on residents’ emotions during COVID-19 lockdown and reopening: A Wuhan study on mediation and moderation
Authors: Liu Minghao , Gou Zhonghua
Published: December 2023

Due to COVID-19, the urban lockdown has caused a significant impact on the mental health of residents. However, limited research investigates the role of neighborhood factors on residents’ mental health during and after the lockdown. This study examines Wuhan, the first city to experience the COVID-19 outbreak, employing multiple linear regression and XGBoost algorithms to analyze the emotional status and distribution of Wuhan residents. The goal of this study is to identify the moderating effect of the neighborhood environment scale on emotional positivity and the marginal effect of the neighborhood environment on residents’ emotions. The results of the study indicate that specific neighborhood environmental characteristics have varying effects on residents’ positive emotions, both before and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The green space ratio, attraction density, waterfront space density, and service facility density all positively affected mood within different distance ranges. Shopping facilities, on the other hand, had mainly positive effects during the open period, with negative effects during the closed period. Furthermore, this study determined scale thresholds where neighborhood environments had a positive effect on mood. For instance, attractions and waterfront areas improved the mood of residents in residential areas, up to at least 3 km away. Medical facilities had a positive effect on residents’ mood beyond 2.2 km. This study highlights crucial implications for planning and managing neighborhoods to promote resilience during future public health crises.