bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding moral distress in home-care nursing: An interview study
Authors: Petersen Julia , Rösler Ulrike , Meyer Gabriele , Luderer Christiane
Published: March 2024

Background

Moral distress is a far-reaching problem for nurses in different settings as it threatens their health.

Aim

This study examined which situations lead to moral distress in home-care nursing, how and with which consequences home-care nurses experience moral distress, and how they cope with morally stressful situations and the resulting moral distress.

Research design

A qualitative interview study with reflexive thematic analysis was used.

Participants and research context

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 home-care nurses in Germany.

Ethical considerations

The study was approved by the Data Protection Office and Ethics Committee of the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Findings

Twenty (14 female and 6 male) home-care nurses were interviewed between April and August 2023 at their chosen location. The situations leading to moral distress were inadequate care of the person in need of care, not being able to protect one’s health, extended responsibility for the entire care arrangement, work–privacy conflicts, and conflicts between the understanding of care or professional ethics and the performance and billing system. The nurses experienced moral distress as they worked alone and provided care in the patient’s territory. Short- and long-term strains with destructive cognitions, negative emotions, physical symptoms, and health consequences were reported. They faced challenges in coping with moral distress on institutional and individual levels.

Conclusions

In cases of tension between the service and billing system and the understanding of these nurses’ care services, moral distress is unavoidable. Alternative forms of organization and billing modalities, such as payment by time and the expansion and refinancing of service, should be implemented. The latter relates to systematic case and ethics meetings. Further, a transfer of medical activities, such as the prescription of wound material to registered nurses, could prevent morally stressful situations and improve patients’ quality of care.
Nursing students’ movement toward becoming a professional caring nurse
Authors: Jaastad Turid Anita , Ueland Venke , Koskinen Camilla
Published: March 2024

Background

Previous research mainly focuses on how to support nursing students in caring for the patient and on educators’ views of students’ development as professional caring nurses. Against this background, it is important to further investigate nursing students’ perspectives on what it means to become a professional caring nurse.

Research aim

This qualitative systematic review study aims to identify and synthesize nursing students’ perceptions on the meaning of becoming a caring nurse.

Research design and data sources

Systematic data searches were conducted by using the electronic databases MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), Academic Search Premiere (EBSCO), and Philosopher`s Index. In total, 13 studies met the inclusion and quality criteria. The articles were analyzed by a systematic review and a thematic synthesis according to Thomas and Harden.

Ethical consideration

The study followed good ethical practice guidelines outlined in the Northern Nurses’ Federation.

Findings

The analysis resulted in eight descriptive themes and finally in three analytical themes: Becoming is to get in touch with one’s inner ethic or ethos, Becoming is a movement between courage, understanding, and being touched, and Becoming is strengthened through caring role models and a learning culture.

Conclusions

Becoming a professional caring nurse is seen as an ongoing movement toward a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s being and bearing. This movement is enabled when nursing students have a sense of self-awareness, courage to stand in their vulnerability, and reflect on their responsibility, caring attitude, and inner values and ethics. The force of becoming is that the attention is directed beyond self to care for and feel empathy for others in a caring manner. Becoming is released through a caring relationship, external confirmation, and good role models. A lack of external support in the movement can potentially prevent the students from becoming a professional caring nurse.
Design of a piezoelectric pneumatic linear actuator in cell manipulation
Authors: Chen Song , Huang Zijian , Cheng Wentao , Fang Xuan , Xie Yilei , Zhang Zhonghua , Wang Jiantao , Kan Junwu
Published: March 2024

A pneumatic piezoelectric linear actuator (PPLA) is proposed, which possesses the advantages of low power consumption, environmental friendliness, and high linearity of positioning. The prototype of the PPLA consists of a piezoelectric gas pump with serial chambers and a cylinder. The piezoelectric gas pump with serial chambers is designed with a wedge valve and flexible support structure, which results in high output performance and meets the working requirements of pneumatic linear actuators. Prototypes of PPLA are designed and manufactured. Experiments are conducted to investigate the effect of chamber height, driving voltage, and driving frequency on the performance of the PPLA. The experimental results indicate that increasing the chamber height enhances the output performance of the PPLA. At 250 Vpp and 120 Hz, the PPLA achieves a maximum output velocity of 16.62 mm/min and is able to handle a maximum load of 11 N. Additionally, an injection simulation experiment using zebrafish embryos is conducted, which confirms the high control accuracy and linearity of the PPLA. The experiment demonstrates the potential application of the PPLA in the field of cell manipulation.
Posthuman Creativity: Unveiling Cyborg Subjectivity Through ChatGPT
Authors: Yan Dave
Published: March 2024

This narrative experiment expands upon Wyatt and Gale’s practice of “writing to it” that involves interactions between humans and an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot named ChatGPT. Building on Haraway’s concept of the cyborg, posthuman creativity opens up a larger space for material-discursive practices, taking account of human and other-than-human forms of agency in the apparatuses of bodily production. By applying diffractive interpretations and analyses across various situations, I then experience the implications of research where discourse and matter mutually constitute the production of knowing. The intention is not to discover something that already exists within the experience of “knowing,” but rather to re-orient one’s thinking and understand the histories of be(com)ing the other within a dialogical, judgment-free space. By embracing posthuman creativity, ChatGPT could potentially serve as an ontological response to St. Pierre’s call for experimenting and creating other “new forms of inquiry.”
How Do Employees in the Disability and Family and Domestic Violence Sectors Respond to Disclosures of Violence From Women With Disability?
Authors: Waters Rebecca , Anderson Jarla , Gullotti Elise , King Gabrielle , Martin Demee , Hodgson David , Watts Lynelle , Chung Donna
Published: March 2024

Women with disability experience higher rates of family and domestic violence (FDV) compared to the rest of the population. There is limited research into how workers in FDV and disability organizations respond to violence against women with disability. Using a case study vignette of a woman with disability disclosing FDV, this phenomenological study explored how 10 employees across the disability and FDV sectors respond to disclosures of abuse, the barriers that influenced their response, and suggested ways to improve their practices. The study found that responses were often insufficient to meet the needs of women with disability.
Self-Esteem in Adults With ADHD Using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale: A Systematic Review
Authors: Pedersen Aksel Bjørø , Edvardsen Bernhard Vestby , Messina Salvatore Matias , Volden Maria Rudjord , Weyandt Lisa L. , Lundervold Astri J.
Published: March 2024

Objective:

To summarize and analyze recent articles investigating self-esteem in adults with ADHD, focusing on the impact of demographic and clinical characteristics, and methodological issues.

Method:

Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search for literature published between 2010 and 2022 was conducted in the Web of Science, Ovid, Pubmed, and EBSCO databases.

Results:

Eleven studies met inclusion criteria. Five of the six studies including healthy controls reported lower self-esteem in participants with ADHD. ADHD symptoms correlated negatively with self-esteem. Gender differences were not observed. Self-esteem mediated several outcomes associated with ADHD. There was a lack of studies that examined potential mechanisms behind the reduced self-esteem, and studies controlling for confounding variables.

Conclusion:

A robust association between ADHD and low self-esteem in adults emerged, but the lack of control of confounding variables is critical to consider when interpreting the findings. Longitudinal studies addressing the limitations of the current studies are needed.
Feasibility and performance analysis of a net-zero energy residential building in tropical climates: A case of Congo-Brazzaville
Authors: Elenga Rolains Golchimard , Zhu Li , Tongora Dickson Maigga , Defilla Steivan
Published: March 2024

Current building techniques in developing countries have become extremely critical. The net-zero energy concept has emerged as an essential strategy for minimising energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. However, its implementation, particularly in developing countries, remains a critical challenge. The purpose of this work is to assess the feasibility of achieving a net-zero energy building by combining energy-efficient design practices and renewable energy systems under the climatic conditions of the Republic of Congo. To achieve the stipulated objectives, DesignBuilder software was utilised for building modelling, energy load assessment and multiobjective optimisation of building energy efficiency measures, and the multicriteria energy optimisation was carried out using the HOMER tool. The optimisation results showed that the implementation of energy efficiency measures resulted in 39.15% energy savings, 43.45% thermal load savings and 55.68% discomfort hours reduction. Furthermore, the renewable energy system can provide 100% of the building’s energy load and a total savings of 3341.84 kgCO2eq/year. The system’s levelised cost of energy was estimated at 0.256 $/kWh, with a net present cost of $20,231, while the overall life cycle cost was calculated at 188.91 $/m2.
Operational cost and wind power integration capacities of the integrated heat and power dispatch (IHPD) system under different heating regulation modes and time steps
Authors: Zhang Xuexiang , Zheng Jinfu , Zhu Hui , Hu Songtao , Liang Shimin
Published: March 2024

The utilization of the district heating system (DHS) thermal inertia is greatly influenced by heating regulation modes and time steps, however, which has been rarely analysed in almost all integrated heat and power dispatch system (IHPD) models, for the purpose of wind power integration. In this study, an IHPD model considering the thermal inertia of the DHS was established, in which a data interaction problem amongst the power sources, heat sources and district heating networks was solved. Thereafter, four most commonly used heating operation modes and different heating regulation time steps were applied to the IHPD model, respectively, to analyse and compare their effects on the IHPD system under different operation conditions, mainly considering the operation cost and the wind power integration. Results of the case studies showed that the variable flow and variable supply temperature mode produced the lowest operation cost of the IHPD system during a whole heating season. Consequently, this mode is recommended to be applied in the optimization operation of the IHPD system with the wind power integration. Meanwhile, a heating regulation time step within 3 h could make full use of the DHS thermal inertia, thus to improve the operational flexibility of the IHPD system.
Athlete Brand Congruence as a Measure to Evaluate Brand Identity and Image Fit
Authors: Sotiriadou Popi , Linsner Annika , Hallmann Kirstin , Hill Brad
Published: March 2024

The paper presents a novel approach to assess athlete brand identity by introducing the concept of brand congruence, which measures the alignment between an athlete’s intended brand image and consumer perceptions. This study leveraged five case studies involving elite athletes and their brands, with the participation of n = 794 consumers through an online survey. The application of Confirmatory Factor Analysis not only validated the effectiveness of the scale in evaluating athlete brand identity from the consumer perspective but also demonstrated its value in bridging the gap between athlete and consumer opinions. The measurement of athlete brand congruence serves as a crucial tool for gauging the harmony between desired and perceived brand attributes, providing valuable insights into athlete brand performance and specific areas for enhancement. This research contributes to the ongoing exploration of athlete branding and its implications for athletes, marketers, and consumers alike, adding to the broader discourse on this pertinent and relevant topic within today’s sports industry landscape.
How can current oncological datasets be adjusted to support the automated patient recruitment in clinical trials?
Authors: Marino Maria-Luisa , Kazmaier Lara , Krendelsberger Antonia , Müller Silvia , Kesting Sabine , Fey Theres , Nasseh Daniel
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study aims to identify necessary adjustments required in existing oncological datasets to effectively support automated patient recruitment. Methods: We extracted and categorized the inclusion and exclusion criteria from 115 oncological trials registered on ClinicalTrials.gov in 2022. These criteria were then compared with the content of the oBDS (Oncological Base Dataset version 3.0), Germany’s legally mandated oncological data standard. Results: The analysis revealed that 42.9% of generalized inclusion and exclusion criteria are typically present as data fields in the oBDS. On average, 54.6% of all criteria per trial were covered. Notably, certain criteria such as comorbidities, pregnancy status, and laboratory values frequently appeared in trial protocols but were absent in the oBDS. Conclusion: The omission of criteria, notably comorbidities, within the oBDS restricts its functionality to support trial recruitment. Addressing this limitation would enhance its overall effectiveness. Furthermore, the implications of these findings extend beyond Germany, suggesting potential relevance and applicability to oncological datasets globally.
Effects of waste rubber particles on workability, mechanical, and sound insulation properties of recycled aggregate mortar
Authors: Xie Xiaoli , Zheng Yubin , Zhu Weiwei , Yu Siliu , Zhu Shengchun , Yang Yang
Published: March 2024

The influence mechanism of waste rubber particles (WRPs) on the workability, mechanical properties, and sound insulation performance of recycled aggregate sound insulation mortar (RCM) were investigated. According to the principle of volume fraction replacement of recycled fine aggregate by 0 to 50%, WRPs with a particle size of 1–4 mm were incorporated in various mixtures of RCM. Each RCM mixture was tested for workability, mechanical, and sound insulation performance. Mercury intrusion porosimetry was used to analyze the distribution of pores and their sizes inside the material, and X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze the characteristics of the interfacial transition zones (ITZs) between the rubber particles and the cement paste. The results showed that, owing to the hydrophobicity of WRPs, greater WRPs content led to greater fluidity of the mortar mix and a smaller water retention rate. Notably, the rubber in the mortar did not contribute to the hydration reactivity of the cement paste, but it changed the crystal morphology and pore structure of ITZ hydration products. The RCM incorporating 3–10% WRPs produced the optimal pore structure through the aggregate effect, which increased its overall compactness and mechanical performance. Further increase of WRP content significantly improved the sound insulation performance while significantly reducing the strength. Moreover, there was a clear logarithmic relationship between the strength and impact sound level index. This new knowledge can be used to prepare RCM that meets the actual strength and sound insulation requirements of the floor. Thus, the resource utilization of solid waste can be expanded.
Participation Patterns and Associated Factors in Japanese Children With Autism
Authors: Iwanaga Yuto , Tanaka Goro , Maruta Michio , Shiozu Hiroyasu , Kawanaka Mizuho , Iwanaga Ryoichiro
Published: March 2024

Background:

Children’s participation is an important outcome for children, families, and rehabilitation.

Objectives:

We compared participation patterns (home and community) of 6- to 12-year-old Japanese children with autism and children with typical development (TD) and explored the associations of participation with familial, environmental, and child-related factors.

Method:

Twenty-five mothers of children with autism and 21 mothers of TD children completed a survey covering their child’s participation and environment, family empowerment, autism symptoms, sensory processing, behavior, and demographic characteristics.

Results:

Children with autism showed restricted home and community participation. Home involvement was associated with family empowerment and the children’s age, whereas home frequency was linked to environmental supportiveness and household income.

Conclusion:

Japanese children with autism need appropriate support to address decreased participation. Occupational therapists may focus on family empowerment and the child’s environment to facilitate the home participation of children with autism.
Experiences With Mobile Health-Enabled Ambulatory Monitoring Among Stroke Survivors: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lau Stephen C.L. , Bright Lindsay , Connor Lisa Tabor , Baum Carolyn M.
Published: March 2024

Inquiring into the experiences of stroke survivors toward ambulatory monitoring is crucial for optimizing user adoption, design, implementation, and sustainability of ambulatory monitoring in the stroke population. This study was aimed to identify facilitators and barriers for ambulatory monitoring among stroke survivors, as well as their suggestions for development and implementation of ambulatory monitoring. We conducted individual semi-structured interviews with 40 stroke survivors who received ambulatory monitoring. The interviews were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Six themes about facilitators associated with ambulatory monitoring emerged: (1) user support, (2) technological features, (3) convenience, (4) personal strategies, (5)social influence, and (6)time commitment. Three themes about barriers to using ambulatory monitoring emerged: (1) personal factors, (2) functionality, (3) study design. Three themes about suggestions emerged: (1) personalization, (2) functionality, and (3) interactive feedback. As mobile health technology is becoming more popular, the findings of this study provide timely implications and practical considerations for ambulatory monitoring in the stroke population.
Metabolomics-Based Effects of a Natural Product on Remyelination After Cerebral Ischemia Injury Via GABABR–pCREB–BDNF Pathway
Authors: Fan Xiaodi , Zhan Min , Song Wenting , Yao Mingjiang , Wang Guangrui , Li Tian , Zhang Yehao , Liu Jianxun
Published: March 2024

Background

Yi-Qi-Tong-Luo Granules (YQTLs) is a natural compound of Traditional Chinese Medicine authorized by China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA). These granules are employed in the convalescent stage of cerebral infarction and render notable clinical efficacy. This study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of YQTLs on remyelination after cerebral ischemia injury.

Materials and Methods

We established cerebral ischemia model in rats using microsphere-induced multiple cerebral infarction (MCI). We evaluated the pharmacological effects of YQTLs on MCI rats, through Morri’s water maze test, open field test, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and glycine silver immersion. We employed liquid chromatography mass spectrometry metabolomics to identify differential metabolites. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was utilized to measure the release of neurotrophins, while immunofluorescence staining was used to assess oligodendrocyte precursor cells differences and myelin regeneration. We used Western blotting to validate the protein expression of remyelination-associated signaling pathways.

Results

YQTLs significantly improves cognitive function following cerebral ischemia injury. Pathological tissue staining revealed that YQTLs administration inhibits neuronal denaturation and neurofibrillary tangles. We identified 141 differential metabolites among the sham, MCI, and YQTLs-treated MCI groups. Among these metabolites, neurotransmitters were identified, and notably, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) showed marked improvement in the YQTLs group. The induction of neurotrophins, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and PDGFAA, upregulation of olig2 and MBP expression, and promotion of remyelination were evident in YQTLs-treated MCI groups. Gamma-aminobutyric acid B receptors (GABABR), pERK/extracellular regulated MAP kinase, pAKT/protein kinase B, and pCREB/cAMP response element-binding were upregulated following YQTLs treatment.

Conclusion

YQTLs enhance the binding of GABA to GABABR, thereby activating the pCREB/BDNF signaling pathway, which in turn increases the expression of downstream myelin-associated proteins and promotes remyelination and cognitive function.
Ver en Español: A Pilot Project to Investigate Translation Methods for Archival Exhibits and Finding Aids
Authors: Judkins Julie , Parker Jaimi K. , Gibbons Maia
Published: March 2024

The internationalization brought about by online finding aids and the United States’ expanding diverse population necessitates a renewed focus on representation and accessibility in archival research. The accessibility of archival resources depends on the language in which the content is offered to the public. Throughout the United States, the Spanish-speaking population continues to grow. Employees in the University of North Texas Special Collections department obtained grant funding to translate finding aids and digital exhibits into Spanish, with an emphasis on finding a translation solution that offered a balance between cost and quality (i.e., readability and accuracy). This article discusses possible options for translation, including translation vendors, Office 365, and DeepL; findings of the project, with specifics about the cost-effectiveness and quality of each option; and general advice to other institutions interested in undertaking translation projects, regardless of available resources.
Estimating the Minimal Clinically Important Difference on the Visual Analogue Scale for Carpometacarpal Thumb Joint Osteoarthritis
Authors: Olaiya Oluwatobi R. , Abraha Beraki , Gallo Lucas , Hircock Caroline , Huynh Minh , McRae Matthew
Published: March 2024

Background:

The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) is the smallest perceived treatment effect that patients deem clinically significant. There is currently no agreement on an appropriate MCID for the pain visual analogue scale (VAS) in the context of thumb osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods:

We approximated MCIDs using a distribution-based approach that pooled standard deviations (SDs) associated with baseline mean values of the pain VAS (0-100 mm). We extracted the data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in a systematic review of adults with long-term OA of the thumb. We excluded RCTs that did not report baseline SD values. The MCIDs were derived at 0.4 and 0.5 SDs of the pooled SD and compared with previously published MCIDs for the pain VAS in OA.

Results:

A total of 403 patients were pooled from 7 RCTs for the analysis. The mean baseline VAS pain score was 5.6 cm. We derived an MCID of 0.72 cm at 0.4 SDs and 0.91 cm at 0.5 SDs using baseline SDs. We found that MCIDs derived from a distribution-based approach approximated published MCIDs for the VAS for pain for OA in the knee and hip.

Conclusion:

The authors propose that a change of 0.7 to 0.9 cm on the VAS is clinically meaningful in the context of long-term OA of the thumb.
Thumb Pronation Angle in Thumb Opposition Evaluated by the Nail Tip Angle of Thumb-Ring Finger Opposition
Authors: Taniguchi Shinji , Matsuura Yusuke , Takehara Tatsuya , Yamada Ayae , Shiko Yuki , Nakagawa Koichi , Ohtori Seiji
Published: March 2024

Background:

This study aimed to devise the method for the evaluation of the thumb pronation angle and calculate its reference value.

Methods:

The study was conducted from October 2021 to March 2022, and 600 hands of 300 healthy volunteers were included in this study. The participants were divided into 6 age groups with 50 participants each. In study 1, 12 participants from group 1 were randomly selected, which included 6 male and 6 female participants. We measured the thumb pronation angle using FASTRAK system and the nail tip angle of thumb-ring finger opposition (T-R angle) and also evaluated the relation between them. In study 2, we measured the T-R angle of 600 hands of 300 healthy volunteers. The T-R angle mean (SD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of each age group were calculated as reference values.

Results:

The thumb pronation angle was correlated with the T-R angle. The T-R angle mean (SD) and 95% CI of the 6 groups were as follows: group 1, 142.5° (12.4) and 117.7 to 167.3; group 2, 139.9° (10.1) and 119.7 to 160.1; group 3, 142.3° (9.7) and 122.9 to 160.5; group 4, 140.2° (12.6) and 115.0 to 165.4; group 5, 138.3° (11.9) and 114.5 to 162.1; and group 6, 135.4° (13.0) and 109.4 to 161.4. The 95% CI tended to decrease with an increasing age.

Conclusions:

The T-R angle was a suitable evaluation method for the thumb pronation angle, and it should be evaluated by age groups.
Comparison between covered-stents grafting and ligation in the treatment of infected femoral pseudoaneurysm due to intravenous drug abuse
Authors: Zeng Yanzhang , Yuan Ping , He Qiang
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The study compared the outcomes between covered-stents grafting (CSG) and ligation of femoral artery (LFA) in the treatment of infected femoral pseudoaneurysm (IFP) caused by intravenous drug injection.

Methods

From 1st January 2016 to 30th November 2021, the clinical data of patients with IFP caused by intravenous drug injection who underwent CSG ( n = 31, 55.4%) and LFA ( n = 25, 45.4%) are retrospectively analyzed. We compared the baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes of the two groups, including early and late mortality and morbidity.

Results

A total of 56 patients were enrolled in the study, comprising 50 (89.3%) men and 6 (10.7%) women, with a mean age of 34.3 years. There was no significant difference observed between the two groups in terms of 30-day mortality (3.2% vs 0%, p = .365) and length of stay (9 [7, 12] vs 11 [8.5, 12.5] days, p = .236). However, group CSG exhibited a lower rate of intermittent claudication (0% vs 32%, p = .001), less blood loss (67.1 ± 22.5 mL vs 177.0 ± 59.8 mL, p < .001), and shorter surgery duration (57.5 ± 9.9 min vs 84.4 ± 22.8 min, p < .001) compared to group LFA. The LFA group were divided into subgroups according to the ligation site. The amputation rate of superficial femoral artery ligation group (0 vs 27.3%, p = .014) was significantly lower than common femoral artery ligation.

Conclusions

Covered-stents grafting may be a preferable treatment to LFA for IFP due to intravenous drug abuse, particularly when the entry tear is located in the common femoral artery.
Hygro-thermo-mechanical properties of tunnel excavated earth-based plasters
Authors: Nouali Mohammed , Ghorbel Elhem
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to valorize the excavated earth (ExE) generated from the tunnel digging works, to elaborate excavated earth-based plasters for masonry walls. Excavated earth is an admixture of water, gravel, sand, and fine particles. A small amount of gravel (<4% by weight) was removed, and the tunnel-excavated earth is used to elaborate plasters. Cement and slag are used as stabilizers in ExE-based plasters and reinforced with natural hemp fibers. The physical, mechanical, thermal, and hydric properties of ExE-based plasters are investigated. The increase in cement content affects the workability of ExE-based plasters in a fresh state, while the addition of natural hemp fibers has no significant effect on the workability. It has been demonstrated that the mechanical performances (compressive strength, flexural strength, and dynamic modulus) of ExE-based plasters increase with the increase of cement content and decrease with the increase in slag content. The hemp fiber addition (0.8% by weight) shows no considerable effect on the ExE-based plaster’s mechanical performance. As for the thermal properties, the increase of cement and slag contents negatively affects the thermal conductivity. The increase in cement content decreases the water absorption of earth-plasters. Except for some tests (shrinkage, main cohesion, and cracking tests), which have not been done in this study, the results of cement-stabilized ExE-based plasters (7% and 9%) are in accordance with the recommendation of the DIN 18947 standard, indicating that the tunnel excavated earth can be used as earth-plasters.
Understanding aggression displayed by patients and families towards intensive care staff: A systematic review
Authors: Sridharan Varadaraj , Leung Kelvin CY , Peisah Carmelle
Published: March 2024

Objectives:

The objective of this systematic review was to synthesise literature pertaining to patient and family violence (PFV) directed at Intensive Care Unit (ICU) staff.

Design:

Study design was a systematic review. The data was not amenable to meta-analysis.

Data Sources and Review Methods:

Electronic searches of databases were conducted to identify studies between 1 January 2000 and 6 March 2023, limited to literature in English only. Published empirical peer-reviewed literature of any design (qualitative or quantitative) were included. Studies which only described workplace violence outside of ICU, systematic reviews, commentaries, editorials, letters, non-English literature and grey literature were excluded. All studies were appraised for quality and risk of bias using validated tools.

Results:

Eighteen studies were identified: 13 quantitative; 2 qualitative and 3 mixed methodology. Themes included: (i) what is abuse and what do I do about it? (ii) who is at risk? (iii) it is common, but how common? (iv) workplace factors; (v) impact on patient care; (vi) effect on staff; (vii)the importance of the institutional response; and (viii) current or suggested solutions.

Conclusions:

This systematic review demonstrated that PFV in the ICU is neither well-understood nor well-managed due to multiple factors including non-standardised definition of abuse, normalisation, inadequate organisational support and general lack of education of staff and public. This will guide in future research and policy decision making.
Concurrent acute sensorimotor axonal neuropathy and disseminated encephalitis associated with Chlamydia pneumoniae in an adult patient with anti-MOG and anti-sulfatide antibodies: a case report
Authors: Papantoniou Michail , Panagopoulos Grigorios
Published: March 2024

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and Guillain–Barré syndrome refer to post-infectious or post-vaccination inflammatory demyelinating disorders of central and peripheral nervous system, respectively. We report the case of a 60-year-old male patient presenting with irritability, gait difficulty, asymmetric quadriparesis (mostly in his left extremities), distal sensory loss for pain and temperature in left limbs, and reduced tendon reflexes in his upper limbs and absent in his lower limbs, following an upper respiratory tract infection, 3 weeks earlier. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed abnormal T2 signal and peripherally enhancing lesions in hemispheres, brainstem, and cerebellum. Nerve conduction studies were compatible with acute motor and sensory axonal neuropathy. Serology revealed positive IgM and IgG antibodies for Chlamydia pneumoniae, and he also tested positive for myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) and sulfatide antibodies. Treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin and methylprednisolone led to clinical and radiological recovery within weeks. Even though several cases of combined central and peripheral demyelination have been reported before, it is the first case report with seropositive anti-sulfatide and anti-MOG acute sensorimotor axonal neuropathy and disseminated encephalitis associated with C. pneumoniae.
Combining an Electrochemical Continuous Glucose Sensor With an Insulin Delivery Cannula: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Yuan Cheng Yi , Halim Bella , Kong Yee W. , Lu Jean , Dutt-Ballerstadt Ralph , Eckenberg Peter , Hillen Ken , Koski Anh , Milenkowic Vlad , Netzer Emma , Obeyesekere Varuni , Reid Solomon , Sims Catriona , Vogrin Sara , Wu Huan-Ping , Seidl Thomas , O’Neal David N.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Combining a continuous glucose monitor with an insulin delivery cannula (CGM-IS) could benefit clinical outcomes. We evaluated the feasibility of a single-needle insertion electrochemical investigational CGM-IS (Pacific Diabetes Technologies, Portland, Oregon) in type 1 diabetes adults.

Methods:

Following 48 hours run-in using a Medtronic 780G in manual mode with a commercial insulin set, 12 participants commenced insulin delivery using the CGM-IS. A standardized test meal was eaten on the mornings of days 1 and 4. Venous samples were collected every 10 minutes one hour prior to and 15 minutes post-meal for four hours. CGM-IS glucose measurements were post-processed with a single capillary blood calibration during warm-up and benchmarked against YSI. A Dexcom G6 sensor was worn post-consent to study end.

Results:

Mean absolute relative difference (MARD) for the CGM-IS glucose measurements was 9.2% (484 paired data points). Consensus error grid revealed 88.6% within zone A and 100% in A + B. Mean (SD) % bias was −3.5 (11.7) %. There were 35 paired YSI readings <100 mg/dL cutoff and 449 ≥100 mg/dL with 81.4% within ±15 mg/dL or ±15%, and 89.9% within ±20 mg/dL or ±20%. Two cannula occlusions required discontinuation of insulin delivery: one at 70 hours post insertion and another during the day 4 meal test. Mean (SD) Dexcom glucose measurements during run-in and between meal tests was respectively 161.3 ± 27.3 mg/dL versus 158.0 ± 25.6 mg/dL; P = .39 and corresponding mean total daily insulin delivered by the pump was 58.0 ± 25.4 Units versus 57.1 ± 28.8 Units; P = .47.

Conclusions:

Insulin delivery and glucose sensing with the investigational CGM-IS was feasible. Longer duration studies are needed.
Imaging of hypodense gliotic lesions in photon counting computed tomography using virtual monoenergetic images
Authors: Schoenbeck Denise , Sacha Alexander , Niehoff Julius Henning , Moenninghoff Christoph , Borggrefe Jan , Kroeger Jan Robert , Michael Arwed Elias
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Glioses appear as hypodense lesions in non-contrast CT examinations of the head. Photon counting CT (PCCT) enables the calculation of virtual monoenergetic images (VMI). The aim of this study is to investigate in which VMI hypodense gliotic lesions can be delineated best.

Materials and methods

35 patients with an MRI-confirmed gliotic lesion and a non-contrast PCCT of the head were retrospectively included. All available VMI from 40 keV to 190 keV were calculated. In a quantitative analysis, conventional image quality parameters were calculated, in particular the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the hypodense lesion compared to the white matter. In a qualitative analysis, selected VMI were rated by experienced radiologists.

Results

The absolute maximum of CNR was 8.12 ± 5.64 in the VMI 134 keV, in post hoc testing, there were significant differences in comparison to VMI with keV ≤110 and keV ≥180 (corrected p < .05). In the qualitative analysis, there were only very slight differences in the rating of the VMI with 66 keV, 80 keV, 100 keV, and 134 keV with overall low agreement between the readers.

Conclusions

The quantitative superiority of VMI 134 keV for the delineation of hypodense gliotic lesions did not translate into a superiority in the qualitative analysis. Therefore, it remains uncertain if the reconstruction of a high keV VMIs for the detection of hypodense gliotic lesions is useful in everyday clinical practice. However, more studies, are necessary to further assess this issue.
Application of DeLone and McLean model on students’ E-learning systems during COVID-19 using PLS-SEM
Authors: Abbas Zaheer , Munir Nimra
Published: March 2024

Education is the most important factor for growth of countries’ social and economic development. The purpose of this study is to know online learning experience, system satisfaction and system usage of students in University of Gujrat. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, traditional (face to face) learning method was stopped and educational institutions shifted to online teaching and learning platforms. To gauge online learning system (platforms) a modified DeLone and McLean (D&M) model was used that comprising Instructors’ Information Quality, Instructors’ Service Quality, System Quality, System Usage, System Satisfaction and Academic Achievements factors. The data was collected from 340 students (Batch, 2017-20) using self-administrated questionnaire through Students’ University email medium. Reliability and Validity of the data was tested and found up to the mark. The results of Confirmatory Factor Analysis revealed that all underlying factors achieved measurement invariance test and Fernell and Lacker criteria. Multi-group analysis showed that students of BS4th and BS8th/MSc4th have different opinion with respect to instructors’ information quality towards system satisfaction. Also, students of BS6th and BS8th/MSc 4th have different view according to system usage and their academic achievements. Further, PLS-SEM results showed that students of BS6th and BS8th/MSc4th reported significant positive impact of System Usage on their Academic Achievements. Furthermore, results depicted that a week negative relationship exist between instructors’ service quality with system satisfaction.
Do we know our language learners?: Investigating students’ and teachers’ technology ownership, access, literacy, and interest in online education
Authors: Kessler Matt
Published: March 2024

This mixed methods study investigates issues related to students’ and teachers’ technology ownership, access, literacy, and preferences for engaging in online second language (L2) learning. In the study, teachers ( N = 20) and L2 learners ( N = 283) of various languages at a large US university completed a survey. Three topics were examined, including: (1) students’ and teachers’ ownership of and access to different technologies; (2) students’ self-reported literacy with 21 computer-based tasks, which were compared to teachers’ beliefs about students’ literacy; and (3) students’ and teachers’ preferences for in-person, hybrid, or online learning, which were compared to teachers’ beliefs about students’ preferences. The findings show similar technology ownership patterns among the groups, but some students struggled with gaining access to certain tools/devices. Teachers also occasionally overrated and underrated students’ literacy with various tasks. Finally, students and instructors shared a strong preference for in-person instruction, yet some teachers had misconceptions about students’ interest in hybrid courses.
Augmented reality and gamification in higher education: Designing mobile interaction to enhance students’ motivation and learning
Authors: Ivarson Elsa , Erlandsson Vilma , Faraon Montathar , Khatib Samy
Published: March 2024

The emergence of augmented reality (AR) and gamification in higher education has gained relevance by virtue of their usefulness in learning spaces. Prior research has examined these technologies separately, but less is known about the impact of combining AR and gamification in the area of web development. This article examined how different educational materials on web development influence students’ motivation and learning in higher education. The educational materials included lecture notes, an AR prototype, and an AR prototype with gamification. A web-based experiment involving 95 students demonstrated that using AR could enhance students’ motivation compared to conventional educational materials, such as lecture notes. However, compared with using only AR, the combination of AR and gamification did not enhance students’ motivation or learning. The findings may serve as a basis to further AR in higher education and support authors in the design of AR in course literature.
TagTaste: From transformation to disruption
Authors: Kumar Avant , Agrahari Amit , Kumar Ashwani
Published: March 2024

Evolving consumer preferences challenge dominant business logic across industries in this digital era. The dominant logic in the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry, which exploits legacy products with minor continuous improvements, is being challenged. Incumbents must pursue frequent F&B product innovation to satisfy evolving consumer preferences. However, their business models constrain the capability and agility for frequent innovation. This case study documents TagTaste’s journey in transforming the F&B industry by addressing the constraints. It developed a platform ecosystem, data-centric assets, and frameworks to undertake frequent F&B product innovation. Its novel sensory data assets and frameworks translate an F&B product into data points for assessing consumers’ product perception. Through the integration of data-centric assets and frameworks into its platform ecosystem, it has developed a novel Food and Beverage Knowledge as a Service (FBKaaS) model to foster frequent F&B product innovation. After successfully transforming F&B product innovation through FBKaaS, it aims to disrupt the F&B industry by scaling up through two key initiatives. Firstly, it aims to democratize F&B product recognition, and secondly, it aims to enhance operational efficiency through algorithmic management. This case provides insight into digital transformation, data analytics, platform ecosystem, disruption, and F&B innovation.
Designing enterprise architecture for a global company
Authors: Divatia Aditi S , Vaidya Anil , Jagasia Jyoti
Published: March 2024

This case is about applying the Enterprise Architecture (EA) approach to align Information Technology to the business goals of a global company. ENMARK, the company has presence in four continents and many countries with multiple legal entities. The company has major product divisions that operate independently around the globe. As a result, there are multiple ERPs and other applications having heavy cost implications. There is a need to use the Enterprise Architecture (EA) approach to understand the overall businesses and remove redundancy across IT. The case can be used to understand how EA helps to bring about integration of Strategy, Business and Information Technology, as well as using the EA approach to develop business, data and application architecture for the global company.
Role of interventional bronchoscopy and chemotherapy in the treatment of patients with small-cell lung cancer: A case report
Authors: Liu Haiyan , Zhao Jun
Published: March 2024

Most of the small-cell lung cancer patients are of the central type of lung cancer. Small-cell lung cancer often intrudes into the atmospheric tract and large blood vessels, thus causing severe tracheobronchial stenosis and superior vena cava syndrome. In addition, patients with malignant tumors, especially those with respiratory failure and severe hypoxia, can be complicated with thromboembolic diseases. We reported a 65-year-old woman with severe stenosis of the trachea, and right main bronchus complicated with acute respiratory failure was treated with bronchoscopy and stent implantation to improve the patient’s dyspnea, thus successfully receiving chemotherapy and timely treatment. After chemotherapy, the tumor shrank and the stenosis of the trachea and right main bronchus improved. We removed the right main bronchus stent and the tracheal stent successively to improve the quality of life of the patients. We managed both the cancer and exacerbation-related factors to improve the patient’s medical conditions so that the patient could receive timely and suitable treatment.
Anesthetic management of bed-to-bed surgery for epicardial pacemaker implantation in neonates with congenital complete heart block: Case report
Authors: Sari Eva Komala , Alatas Anas , Kusuma Hendra
Published: March 2024

Congenital complete heart block is a rare disease. Pacemaker implantation is indicated in neonates with a heart rate of less than 50 beats per minute. This case report aims to emphasize perioperative management of two cases of congenital complete heart block that underwent pacemaker implantation bed to bed after being delivered by cesarean section. Since these patients are prone to fatal cardiac decompensation and unresponsive to pharmacological therapies, it requires some measures in anesthetic management and good teamwork with other specialties.
Can Nondisplacement Osteoporotic Pubic Rami Fracture Be Life-Threatening Injuries? A Case Report, Overview, and Algorithm Protocol for Management
Authors: Kastanis Grigorios , Pantouvaki Anna , Siligardou Mikela-Rafaella , Chaniotakis Constantinos , Kroustalakis Emmanouil , Stavrakakis Ioannis , Kapsetakis Petros
Published: March 2024

Pubic rami fractures in the geriatric population are usually osteoporotic fractures resulting from low energy trauma and are characterized as stable injuries. Established treatment of these injuries is conservative, including rest, analgesic medication, and progressive active mobilization. These injuries are life-threatened when pubic rami fractures are accompanied by acute bleeding, either from an injury to a vessel (corona mortis) or from medication (anticoagulant or antiplatelet) for comorbidities, then. In this case study, we present the unusual case of an 82-year-old woman admitted to the emergency department 24 hours after a simple fall, causing nondisplacement osteoporotic pubic rami fracture, who, after 48 hours, developed a hematoma on the contralateral side of the pelvis, with progressive anemia and acute abdominal pain. This study has 2 objectives: to increase awareness of this life-threatening injury in the emergency department and to describe diagnosis and treatment modalities.