bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface modified polyacrylonitrile/polyamide nanofibre composite for air filtration
Authors: Gobi N , Priyanka V , Monnisha G
Published: April 2022

Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and Polyamide (PA)-6 based nanofibrous composite were prepared for air filtration application. PAN was electrospun on spun-bonded non-woven polypropylene which acts as a collector and the samples were coated with PA-6. Box-Behnken experimental design was used to design the experimental plan. As per the experimental plan, PA-6 coated samples were treated with different concentrations of an alkali solution (NaOH) (2%, 5% and 8%) and treatment temperature (60oC, 80oC and 100oC) to enhance the surface properties. As prepared nanofibrous composite was tested for its various properties such as surface morphology, particle filtration efficiency and air permeability. Fourier transform infra-red analysis and scanning electron microscope were performed to analyze the functional groups and morphology of the nanofibrous composite respectively. The air permeability of the control and treated samples was analyzed as per the standard procedure and the permeation level varies from 52.5 to 60 cm3/cm2/s for control samples, 65–195 cm3/cm2/s for treated samples. The overall filtration efficiency for treated samples varies from 36.54% to 78.56%. The sample which is treated with 5% NaOH at 60oC has a higher overall filtration efficiency of 78.56%.
A Qualitative Exploratory Study of Family Inclusion in Assertive Community Treatment: Challenges and Possibilities
Authors: Peterson Lance T. , Gricus Michelle
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this study is to understand the unique challenges of Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) service providers to actively include natural supports in treatment. The qualitative approach was guided by the participatory intervention model and tenets of critical realism. Interviews included focus groups of different stakeholders on ACT teams (e.g., case managers) and individual interviews with ACT clients. Through thematic analysis, we identified themes demonstrating how state funding requirements, demands on staff schedules, and psychosocial barriers make it challenging to include clients’ natural supports. We derived two implications which may enhance future possibilities for natural support inclusion: community-based psychoeducation family groups coupled with state funding streams that better support the ACT model.
Team Planning: A Process-Oriented Model and Development and Validation of Three Scales
Authors: Oldeweme Martina , Konradt Udo
Published: April 2022

In this study we present a process model of team planning that distinguishes between four specific processes: exploration, strategic planning, detailed planning, and prognosis. From this model, we developed and validated a 16-item multidimensional long-form scale, a 4-item one-dimensional short-form scale, and a single-item scale. Results from three samples (total N = 536) with varying populations and settings provide support for the multidimensionality of the planning construct and the theorized structure of the scales and, also, demonstrate discriminant and convergent validity and predictive validity in terms of team performance.
Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory Assessments as Predictors of Behavioral Change in Multisystemic Therapy and Functional Family Therapy in Norway
Authors: Hukkelberg Silje , Ogden Terje , Thøgersen Dagfinn Mørkrid
Published: April 2022

Background: Multisystemic Therapy (MST) and Functional Family Therapy (FFT) are evidence-based Blueprint programs shown to be effective towards youth problem behaviors. Purpose: The present study aimed to investigate treatment outcomes following MST and FFT among Norwegian youths with serious behavior problems. Research design: Routine Outcome Monitoring (ROM) data of the Youth Level of Service/Case Management Inventory at intake and post-test was used along with measures of five national treatment goals. Study sample: The study is based on two samples of youths assigned to MST ( n = 2018) and FFT ( n = 453). Analysis: Data were analyzed separately for MST and FFT, to explore changes during treatment and accomplishment of the treatment goals. Results: At intake youths in MST showed a significant higher level of risk factors compared to those referred to FFT. Significant reductions in risk factors and behavioral problems were evident for both interventions. Follow-up results demonstrated sustained reductions of problem behaviors. Conclusion: Both treatments decrease risk factors and increase the completion of outcome goals. Implications of the results are discussed.
Perceptions of Advance Care Planning Needs of Persons Living With HIV in Appalachia: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Hutson Sadie Pauline , West Frankie L. , Giron Joelle
Published: April 2022

Persons living with Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are living longer, healthier lives due to advancements in antiretroviral therapies and access to lifelong treatment. Yet, in rural Appalachia, access to adequate medical care is complicated by factors such as geography and lack of access to resources. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of advance care planning (ACP) needs of persons living with HIV (PLWH) in Appalachian Tennessee and Alabama. Using a qualitative-descriptive design, we analyzed patterns of responses to face-to-face, semi-structured interviews of 40 PLWH as part of a larger multi-site mixed method study. Data demonstrated high patient satisfaction with medical care and good relationships with providers. However, common themes arose surrounding stigma, inadequate finances, and dislike of the term “end-of-life.” Findings from this study fill a gap in the extant science pertaining to the focus of ACP in the unique population of rural Appalachia.
Development of “The Safe Psychiatric Ward Battery”
Authors: Vahidi Maryam , Namdar Areshtanab Hossein , Ebrahimi Hossein , Asghari Jafarabadi Mohammad
Published: April 2022

This study reports the development process and psychometric testing of the safe environment in psychiatric wards instrument. In this mixed-methods study, the concept of a safe environment was explained with a qualitative study by performing semi-structured interviews with patients and staff and ward observation. Then, the items of the instrument were designed using qualitative data and a literature review. Content and construct validity, internal consistency, stability, and inter-rater agreement were evaluated. This study produced an instrument consisting of two sections. The first section was a scale (α = .920). Exploratory factor analysis of the scale identified two dimensions of “engagement” (α = .931) and “perception” of the physical environment (α = .760). The second section was a checklist with two dimensions, “accident-free living environment” and “staff empowerment.” The intra-class correlation coefficients for the scale and checklist were .912 and .809, respectively. This study suggests that this instrument is a valid and reliable tool to assess safety in psychiatric wards.
Decisional Conflict is Associated with Treatment Modality and not Disease Knowledge in South African Men with Prostate Cancer: Baseline Results from a Longitudinal Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Irusen Hayley , Burger Henriette , Fernandez Pedro W. , Van der Merwe Andre , Esterhuizen Tonya , du Plessis Danelo E , Seedat Soraya
Published: April 2022

Background

Decisional conflict (DC) is a psychological construct that an individual experiences in making a decision that involves risk, loss, regret, or challenges to one’s values. This study assessed DC in a cohort of South African men undergoing curative treatment for localised prostate cancer (LPC). The objectives were to (1) to examine the association between DC and prostate cancer knowledge (PCK), demographics, state anxiety, prostate cancer anxiety and time to treatment and (2) to compare levels of DC between treatment groups [prostatectomy (RP) and external beam radiation (RT)].

Method

Data, comprising the Decisional Conflict Scale (DCS), Prostate Cancer Knowledge (PCK), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S), the Memorial Anxiety Scale for Prostate Cancer (MAX-PC) and demographic data from 83 participants of a larger prospective longitudinal observational study examining depression, anxiety and health related quality of life (DAHCaP) were analysed.

Results

The mean age of participants was 63 years (RP 61yrs and RT 65yrs; p< 0.001). Most were of mixed ancestry (72.3%). The total DCS scores between the treatment groups (RP 25.00 and RT 18.75; p = 0.037) and two DCS sub-scores-uncertainty (p = 0.033 ), and support (p = 0.048 ), were significantly higher in the RP group. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between state anxiety and time between diagnosis and treatment in the RP group (Spearman’s rho = −0.368; p = 0.030). There was no correlation between the DCS score and PCK within each treatment group (Spearman’s rho RP = −0.249 and RT = −0.001).

Conclusion

Decisional conflict was higher in men undergoing RP. Men were more anxious in the RP group regarding the time treatment was received from diagnosis. No correlation was observed between DC and PCK. Pre-surgical management of DC should include shared decision making (SDM) which is cognisant of patients’ values facilitated by a customised decision aid.
Mental Health Nurses’ Perceptions of Their Role in Physical Screening and Lifestyle Coaching for Patients With a Severe Mental Illness: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Voort Nienke T. Y. G. van der , Klaessen Nikki C. , Poslawsky Irina E. , van Meijel Berno
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND:

The life expectancy of patients with severe mental illness (SMI) is estimated to be 20 to 30 years shorter than in the general population due to avoidable physical illnesses. This gap is widening. Health care professionals’ performance with regard to physical health and lifestyle appears to be suboptimal.

AIMS:

The purpose of this study is to formulate recommendations to enhance physical care for patients with an SMI.

METHODS:

A generic descriptive qualitative study was conducted. Fifteen mental health nurses (MHNs) working in community mental health care in the Netherlands were interviewed. Thematic analysis of the data was performed.

RESULTS:

Most MHNs perceived physical screening and lifestyle interventions to be an important part of their professional role. However, they recognize discrepancy between their perception and actual practice. Most MHNs focus in particular on the psychiatric illness and its consequences for daily living, and they defined the provision of physical health care as a secondary concern. Participants described building a therapeutic relationship as a crucial, however, difficult part of the process of working on physical health promotion. Many MHNs tend to formulate goals and necessary behavioral changes on behalf of their patients, rather than helping them formulate their own goals and activities for themselves.

CONCLUSIONS:

Building a good therapeutic relationship with patients and supporting patients in defining their own lifestyle goals can enhance nursing physical care. Support by other team members (such as NPs) and managers is needed. In training and education for professionals, the lessons learned in this study should be included.
Ifs and buts of non-thermal processing technologies for plant-based drinks’ bioactive compounds
Authors: Salar Francisco J. , Domínguez-Perles Raúl , García-Viguera Cristina , Fernández Pablo S.
Published: April 2022

Vegetables and fruits contain a variety of bioactive nutrients and non-nutrients that are associated with health promotion. Consumers currently demand foods with high contents of healthy compounds, as well as preserved natural taste and flavour, minimally processed without using artificial additives. Processing alternatives to be applied on plant-based foodstuffs to obtain beverages are mainly referred to as classical thermal treatments that although are effective treatments to ensure safety and extended shelf-life, also cause undesirable changes in the sensory profiles and phytochemical properties of beverages, thus affecting the overall quality and acceptance by consumers. As a result of these limitations, new non-thermal technologies have been developed for plant-based foods/beverages to enhance the overall quality of these products regarding microbiological safety, sensory traits, and content of bioactive nutrients and non-nutrients during the shelf-life of the product, thus allowing to obtain enhanced health-promoting beverages. Accordingly, the present article attempts to review critically the principal benefits and downsides of the main non-thermal processing alternatives (High hydrostatic pressure, pulsed electric fields, ultraviolet light, and ultrasound) to set up sound comparisons with conventional thermal treatments, providing a vision about their practical application that allows identifying the best choice for the sectoral industry in non-alcoholic fruit and vegetable-based beverages.
Soybean residue (okara) modified by extrusion with different moisture contents: Physical, chemical, and techno-functional properties
Authors: Yoshida Bruna Yumi , da Silva Paulo Rogério Catarini , Prudencio Sandra Helena
Published: April 2022

To increase hydration properties and soluble fiber content, okara with different moisture contents (30, 35, and 40%) was extruded in single-screw equipment, keeping the temperature (120 °C) and screw speed (115 rpm) fixed. The physical, chemical, and techno-functional properties of extruded and non-extruded okara (control) were evaluated. The microstructure, color, chemical composition, and techno-functional properties of okara were altered after extrusion. The extruded samples showed general microstructure aspects similar between them, with an irregular and rough surface, striated parts, orifices, and some agglomerated particles with distorted, compact, and amorphous appearance, different from control. Among the modified samples, okara extruded with 30% moisture showed more intense changes in relation to the samples extruded with 35 and 40% moisture. Based on the results, it can be inferred that okara extruded with 35% moisture is the most suitable. Under this condition, there was an increase of 80% in soluble fiber content, 45% in water absorption and holding capacity and 11% in solid stability in water, the maintenance of swelling and oil absorption and holding capacities and the reduction of protein solubility in water. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that crystalline phase was affected by extrusion.
Value Fulfillment from a Cybernetic Perspective: A New Psychological Theory of Well-Being
Authors: DeYoung Colin G. , Tiberius Valerie
Published: April 2022

Value Fulfillment Theory (VFT) is a philosophical theory of well-being. Cybernetic Big Five Theory (CB5T) is a psychological theory of personality. Both start with a conception of the person as a goal-seeking (or value-pursuing) organism, and both take goals and the psychological integration of goals to be key to well-being. By joining VFT and CB5T, we produce a cybernetic value fulfillment theory in which we argue that well-being is best conceived as the fulfillment of psychologically integrated values. Well-being is the effective pursuit of a set of nonconflicting values that are emotionally, motivationally, and cognitively suitable to the person. The primary difference in our theory from other psychological theories of well-being is that it does not provide a list of intrinsic goods, instead emphasizing that each person may have their own list of intrinsic goods. We discuss the implications of our theory for measuring, researching, and improving well-being.
Effect of side guide marks of ultrasound transducer on the success rate of ultrasound transducer-guided radial artery puncture: A randomized trial
Authors: Yao Jie , Hao Shuai , Zhou Chen , Quan ZheFeng
Published: April 2022

Background:

Compared with blind technique, ultrasound (US) transducer-guided technique for radial artery puncture can improve the success rate. However, difficulty in handling US transducer-guided technology is a key limitation to its wider use. The aim of the study was to explore the effect of guide marks on the side of US transducer on the success rate of US transducer-guided radial artery puncture.

Methods:

In this parallel-group trial, 127 patients undergoing elective liver cancer resection and splenectomy under general anesthesia were randomly allocated to the traditional group or the Intervention group. The traditional group used the conventional US transducer-guided radial artery puncture technology, while the Intervention group used the US transducer-guided radial artery puncture technology with the guide marks on the side of the US transducer probe. The primary observation index was success rate of radial artery cannulation at the first attempt; the secondary observation indices were failure rate of cannulation, location time, and total time for successful cannulation.

Results:

The successful rate of cannulation in the Intervention group (59 out of 63, 93.6%) was greater than that in the traditional group (50 out of 64, 78.1%, p = 0.01). The posterior wall puncture rate in the Intervention group was lower than that in the traditional group (11.1% vs 32.8%, p = 0.005). The location time in the Intervention group was longer than that in the traditional group (20.1 ± 3.8 vs 16.6 ± 4.0 s, p < .001), while the total cannulation time was significantly shorter (20.7 ± 4.3 vs 32.4 ± 7.4 s, p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Using guide marks on the side of US transducer can help improve success rate of US transducer-guided radial artery puncture at the first attempt and reduce the risk of puncture-related complications.
A snapshot of early venous remodeling in a 7-day-old arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Shehadeh Serene A , Tabbara Marwan , Martinez Laisel , Vazquez-Padron Roberto I
Published: April 2022

Early remodeling of the arteriovenous fistula (AVF) determines maturation outcomes. However, the cellular response of the venous wall early after AVF creation remains largely enigmatic because of the lack of venous biopsies obtained shortly after anastomosis. This report presents a detailed immunohistochemistry analysis of a pre-access cephalic vein and the resulting seven-day-old AVF that required ligation due to steal syndrome. We test for markers of mature and progenitor endothelial cells (CD31, CD34, VWF), contractile smooth muscle cells and myofibroblasts (MYH11, SMA), and immune cell populations (CEACAM8, CD3, CD20, CD11b, CD45, CD68, CD163, tryptase). We demonstrated near complete endothelial coverage of the fistula at 7 days, a high degree of wall neovascularization, pronounced loss of myofibroblasts and smooth muscle cells, and significant infiltration of mast cells, neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages. Of interest, the presence of CD163+ macrophages in the AVF suggests a reactive response to increased intramural oxygenation. In conclusion, these images provide for the first time a glimpse of early remodeling in a human AVF by immunohistochemistry. This case demonstrates the possibility to obtain additional precious samples of this early stage through future multicenter collaborative efforts.
The gendered geographies of dispossession and social reproduction: Homeworkers in the Global South during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zulfiqar Ghazal Mir
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed global capitalism’s fault lines and the deep vulnerabilities built into its functionings. This article investigates how Pakistan’s informally employed women homeworkers, who labor at the bottom of global production networks (GPNs), fared during the first year of the pandemic. It empirically demonstrates how the GPN’s disruption wiped out the limited livelihoods of women homeworkers, which significantly jeopardized the social reproduction of their households, devastating entire communities. Through all of this, women homeworkers’ agency was evident in the everyday practices of social reproduction. The pandemic also revealed a collective solidarity that had community and extended family dimensions. The struggles and solidarities should be viewed as agentic acts of survival, against the economic and socio-political conditions of dispossession that come out of laboring in the Global South, as informal workers.
Dealing with declining dominance: White identification and anti-immigrant hostility in the US
Authors: Earle Megan , Hodson Gordon
Published: April 2022

Increasing diversity and the anticipation of its resulting cultural change is raising vociferous protestations among White Americans. Here, we explore moderation and mediation of its intergroup implications. Among a nationally representative sample of White Americans, Study 1 ( n = 2,257) revealed that living in a region that experienced a greater (vs. lesser) increase in racial diversity in recent years was associated with more anti-immigrant attitudes, but only among those who were highly White-identified. In an experiment, Study 2 ( n = 420, White Americans) revealed that collective nostalgia (i.e., longing for the ingroup’s past) mediated the relation between anticipated cultural change resulting from shifting demographics and anti-immigrant attitudes, but only for those who were highly White-identified. Thus, anti-immigrant sentiment among White Americans in response to changing demographics and culture is seen primarily among those personally invested in their White racial identity, an effect partly explained by a longing for bygone days.
Self-reported mental health in adolescents attending school and its association with later school dropout: A prospective 2.5-year follow-up study
Authors: Lindhardt Line , Lindholdt Louise , Lund Thomas , Mortensen Ole Steen
Published: April 2022

Aims:

Mental health problems in young people are associated with educational outcomes. There are persistent difficulties in screening for these problems and mapping the trajectories of mental health in relation to academic and work outcomes. We investigated whether Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) scores in adolescents attending school were associated with school dropout in upper secondary school, both in adolescents with already recognised mental disorders and adolescents without known mental disorders.

Methods:

The data consisted of a questionnaire targeting 13,100 adolescents attending the final year of compulsory school combined with data derived from a national register. SDQ scores were divided into normal, borderline and abnormal scores. School dropout in upper secondary school was identified during a 2.5-years follow-up period. We stratified the data by recognised mental disorders. Logistic regression was performed to examine the association between SDQ scores and later school dropout with adjustment for parents’ mental disorders, parents’ educational level, sex, suicidal thoughts, school absence and negative childhood events.

Results:

During follow-up, 18.5% of adolescents experienced school dropout. Adolescents with abnormally high SDQ scores and borderline SDQ scores had higher odds for school dropout than adolescents with SDQ scores in the normal range. The association remained in the adjusted analysis, although more covariates showed independent contributions in association with school dropout.

Conclusions:

Self-reported SDQ scores in adolescents attending school were associated with later school dropout irrespective of recognised mental disorders, indicating that markers such as the SDQ might contribute to the identification of vulnerable adolescent groups, although the findings of multifactorial contributions suggest we should consider more indicators in a risk assessment for school dropout.
Fashioning Sufi: body politics of androgynous sacred aesthetics
Authors: Shroff Sara
Published: April 2022

Revered as the ‘Queen of Qawwali’ and ‘Queen of Sufi music’, sixty-seven-year-old Abida Parveen is a spiritual phenomenon who transcends gender while performing. She is known for her signature fashion style of buttoned-up masculine-cut kurta (tunic) with matching shalwar (loose trousers) and an ajrak (block-printed) shawl. Her aesthetic circulates within transnational and national fashion media and popular cultural spaces through descriptors such as androgynous, masculine, modest, indigenous and sacred. As a highly respected figure with widely circulating performances on both the national and international stages, as well through multiple media circuits, including television, social/digital media and broadcast concerts, Parveen's undeniable fame and her transgressive entry into an otherwise male-dominated music genre raises important questions about gender, embodiment, spirituality and the sacred. In analysing Parveen's body and dress in performance, I centre her sartorial style as sites of spirituality and affect to ask: what does it mean for Parveen to transcend gender through a performance of androgynous Sufism and mobilise it as an entry way into spiritual iconism? What imaginations around spirituality and the sacred become available through Parveen's sartorial practices? How does Parveen's style offer an alternative route to Muslim spirituality? Taking up Parveen's embodied coagulation between fashion and the sacred reveals an absence in feminist fashion studies on which subjects and styles are viewed as important, relevant, resistant or transgressive and thus worthy of theorisation. As a feminist scholar interested in the relationship between gender, power and self/representation, I see Parveen as a key global cultural and spiritual figure who necessitates transnational feminist analysis. This article is situated at the intersections of fashion and cultural studies, feminist, queer and trans spiritualities and South Asia studies.
Short-term effect of air stacking and mechanical insufflation–exsufflation on lung function in patients with neuromuscular diseases
Authors: Veldhoen Esther S , Vercoelen Femke , Ros Leandra , Verweij-van den Oudenrijn Laura P , Wösten-van Asperen Roelie M , Hulzebos Erik HJ , Bartels Bart , Gaytant Michael A , van der Ent Kors , Ludo van der Pol W
Published: April 2022

Air stacking (AS) and mechanical insufflation–exsufflation (MI-E) aim to increase cough efficacy by augmenting inspiratory lung volumes in patients with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). We studied the short-term effect of AS and MI-E on lung function. We prospectively included NMD patients familiar with daily AS or MI-E use. Studied outcomes were forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow (PEF) prior to, immediately after, and up to 2 h after treatment. Paired sample T-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used. Sixty-seven patients participated. We observed increased FVC and FEV1 immediately after AS with a mean difference of respectively 0.090 L (95% CI 0.045; 0.135, p < .001) and 0.073 L (95% CI 0.017; 0.128, p = .012). Increased FVC immediately after MI-E (mean difference 0.059 L (95% CI 0.010; 0.109, p = .021) persisted 1 hour (mean difference 0.079 L (95% CI 0.034; 0.125, p = .003). The effect of treatment was more pronounced in patients diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, compared to patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. AS and MI-E improved FVC immediately after treatment, which persisted 1 h after MI-E. There is insufficient evidence that short-lasting increases in FVC would explain the possible beneficial effect of AS and MI-E.
Mechanical, viscoelastic, and flammability properties of polymer composites reinforced with novel Sirisha bark filler
Authors: Khuntia Tanmayee , Biswas Sandhyarani
Published: April 2022

Today is the era of advanced materials to resolve the issue due to ecological hazards. Research is being carried out to find the alternative of the existing materials with a low cost and eco-friendly nature. Polypropylene (PP) is one of the major commodity thermoplastics having wide applications worldwide. The neat PP is extremely sensitive to flame and therefore it is a challenging task for the researchers to reduce the flame sensitivity of PP composites for safe applications. Though the artificial flame retardant filler reduces the flame propagation, these are hazardous, costly, not environment friendly and, they reduce the mechanical strength of the polymer composites upon higher percentage loading. To overcome this difficulty, in this work, the novel natural Sirisha bark filler was reinforced to the coir fiber/PP hybrid composites to enhance the flame retardant and mechanical properties. The time to ignite (TTI) of the hybrid composites increased due to bark filler reinforcement in the composites and the flame spread reduced to zero. The impact strength of hybrid composites was found to be increased due to the strong interfacial adhesion of the bark filler with the PP matrix. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs revealed the well-defined grain boundaries of hybrid composites. The carbonaceous char coating over the surface of the hybrid composite was observed from the char morphology that acts as a hindrance to flame. The viscoelastic properties such as storage modulus, loss modulus, and loss tangent of the hybrid composites were studied by using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA).
Prophylactic Ureteral Catheter Placement Appears to Reduce Intraoperative Ureteric Injury During Resection of Primary Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma
Authors: Chen Xiaobing , Chen Jun , Cananzi Ferdinando Carlo Maria , Li Wenjie , Quagliuolo Vittorio , Luo Chenghua , Yang Yinmo
Published: April 2022

Background: Prophylactic ureteral catheters placement (PUCP) was advocated as an effective strategy for decreasing ureteral morbidities in colorectal surgeries. However, whether it should be routinely used prior to primary retroperitoneal liposarcoma (PRLS) surgeries remains unknown. Methods: It was a retrospective study, conducted at a tertiary sarcoma center. Medical records of patients with PRLS undergoing surgeries from January 2015 through December 2018 were reviewed. Primary endpoint was the rate of ureteral morbidities during and after retroperitoneal liposarcoma resection procedures. Univariate and multivariate analyses determined risk factors associated with ureteral injury (UI) in patients undergoing surgeries. Results: A total of 55 patients of PRLS were included. Fourteen (25.5%) patients underwent PUCP, with 1 UI (7.1%) identified. In 41 patients with no PUCP, 15 (36.6%) exhibited UIs during and post surgeries. There were significant improvements of UIs in group PUCP, compared with patients without PUCP ( P < .05). Resection surgeries combined with colectomy and tumor-ureter relationship were 2 risk factors significantly associated to UIs ( P < .01). Conclusions: PUCP might be an effective way of preventing UIs in patients with PRLS. It could be suggested especially in patients with ureter encased by tumor or anticipated colectomy during the surgical process.
Levetiracetam in Alzheimer’s Disease: Do Epileptologists Already Have the Cure?
Authors: Sarkis Rani A.
Published: April 2022

[Box: see text]
The global prevalence and its associated factors toward domestic violence against women and children during COVID-19 pandemic—“The shadow pandemic”: A review of cross-sectional studies
Authors: Wake Addisu Dabi , Kandula Usha Rani
Published: April 2022

Globally, domestic violence affects women across their life span. Domestic violence against women and children during COVID-19 is a critical and substantial public health issue. This review article was aimed to determine the prevalence and its associated factors toward domestic violence against women and children during COVID-19. Several studies showed that the prevalence of domestic violence against women and children has been alarmingly enlarged during this COVID-19. Domestic violence is a significant and essential problem that is occurring all over the world for many years now, but this condition has been augmented during the lockdown situation because of this pandemic. Women and children of the worldwide are facing twin health emergencies that are COVID-19 and domestic violence. The pandemic was found as a threat to commit domestic violence against women and children. This is because, even though the measurements taken to avoid COVID-19 spread are supportive strategies and also the only opportunity to do so, reducing the risk of COVID-19 was found to raise the risk of domestic violence against women and children. Factors associated with domestic violence against women and children were; being housewives, age < 30 years, marriage, husband’s age being between 31 and 40 years, physical victimization, and sexual victimization were factors associated with domestic violence. Depression, spending more time in close contact, job losses, financial insecurity, lockdowns, addiction (alcohol or drugs), control of wealth in the family, technology, and quarantine were factors considered as risk factors for domestic violence. This review will serve as a “call to action” to address this crisis effectively by coming together since this crisis is the global aspect. This is a shadow pandemic growing during this COVID-19 crisis and a global collective effort is needed to prevent it. The life of women and children moves from their needs to their rights during this pandemic. It is essential to undertake urgent actions to intervene in it.
Impact of new diagnostic pathway for gestational diabetes in time of COVID-19
Authors: Walker Betrice , Edey Jenna , Hall Leanne , Braniff Kathleen , Heal Clare
Published: April 2022

Background

In April 2020, the diagnostic criteria for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) changed in Queensland, with the goal of reducing exposure of pregnant women to COVID-19.

Methods

A retrospective clinical audit was conducted at a regional hospital to compare the incidence of GDM, and specific maternal and neonatal outcomes four months before and after the change in guidelines was implemented.

Results

Less than 50% of diagnostic tests were performed according to new guidelines. There was a non-significant increase in the incidence of GDM (13.3% to 15.3%), and pharmacological treatments. Instrumental deliveries ( p = 0.01) and shoulder dystocia ( p = 0.04) increased following the change in guidelines. There were no differences in the incidence of elective and emergency caesarean delivery, macrosomia and fetal weight. Maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) was higher in the COVID-19 GDM cohort ( p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Despite the change in guidelines, there was a non-significant increase in the incidence of diagnosis of gestational diabetes.
Development of a prediction model in female pure or predominant urge urinary incontinence: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: van Doorn Tess , Reuvers Sarah H.M. , Roobol Monique J. , Remmers Sebastiaan , Verbeek Jan F.M. , Scheepe Jeroen R. , Wolterbeek Josien H. , van der Schoot Deric K.E. , Nieboer Daan , ‘t Hoen Lisette A. , Blok Bertil F.M.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Urinary incontinence is a prevalent form of pelvic floor dysfunction, with a non-negligible impact on a patient’s quality of life. There are several treatment options, varying from conservative to invasive. The aim of this study is to predict treatment outcomes of pure or predominant urge urinary incontinence (UUI) in women to support shared decision-making and manage patient expectations.

Methods:

Data on patient characteristics, disease history, and investigations of 512 consecutive women treated for UUI in three hospitals in the Netherlands were retrospectively collected. The predicted outcome was the short-term subjective continence outcome, defined as patient-reported continence 3 months after treatment categorized as cure (no urinary leakage), improvement (any degree of improvement of urinary leakage), and failure (no improvement or worsening of urinary leakage). Multivariable ordinal regression with backward stepwise selection was performed to analyze association between outcome and patient’s characteristics. Interactions between patient characteristics and treatment were added to estimate individual treatment benefit. Discriminative ability was assessed with the ordinal c-statistic.

Results:

Conservative treatment was applied in 12% of the patients, pharmacological in 62%, and invasive in 26%. Subjective continence outcome was cure, improvement, and failure in 20%, 49%, and 31%, respectively. Number of incontinence episodes per day, voiding frequency during the day, subjective quantity of UI, coexistence of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), night incontinence, and bladder capacity and the interactions between these variables were included in the model. After internal validation, the ordinal c-statistic was 0.699.

Conclusions:

Six variables were of value to predict pure or predominant UUI treatment outcome in women. Further development into a comprehensive set of models for the use in various pelvic floor disorders and treatments is recommended to optimize individualized care. This model requires external validation before implementation in clinical practice.
Regional Anesthesia Decreases Inpatient But Not Outpatient Opioid Demand in Ankle and Distal Tibia Fracture Surgery
Authors: Cunningham Daniel J. , Paniagua Ariana , DeLaura Isabel , Zhang Gloria , Kim Billy , Kim Jonathan , Lee Terry , LaRose Micaela , Adams Samuel , Gage Mark J.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Regional anesthesia (RA) is commonly used in ankle and distal tibia fracture surgery. However, the pragmatic effects of this treatment on inpatient and outpatient opioid demand are unclear. The hypothesis was that RA would decrease inpatient opioid consumption and have little effect on outpatient demand in patients undergoing ankle and distal tibia fracture surgery compared with patients not receiving RA.

Methods:

All patients aged 18 years and older undergoing ankle and distal tibia fracture surgery at a single institution between July 2013 and July 2018 were included in this study (n = 1310). Inpatient opioid consumption (0-72 hours postoperatively) and outpatient opioid prescribing (1 month preoperatively to 90 days postoperatively) were recorded in oxycodone 5-mg equivalents (OEs). Adjusted models were used to evaluate the impact of RA versus no RA on inpatient and outpatient opioid demand.

Results:

Patients without RA had higher rates of high-energy mechanism of injury, additional injuries, open fractures, and additional surgery compared with patients with RA. Adjusted models demonstrated decreased inpatient opioid consumption in patients with RA (12.1 estimated OEs without RA vs 8.8 OEs with RA from 0 to 24 hours postoperatively, P < .001) but no significant difference after that time (9.7 vs 10.4 from 24 to 48 hours postoperatively, and 9.5 vs 8.5 from 48 to 72 hours postoperatively). Estimated cumulative outpatient opioid demand was significantly increased in patients receiving RA at all time points (112.5 OEs without RA vs 137.3 with RA from 1 month preoperatively to 2 weeks, 125.6 vs 155.5 OEs to 6 weeks, and 134.6 vs 163.3 OEs to 90 days, all P values for RA <.001).

Discussion:

In ankle and distal tibia fracture surgery, RA was associated with decreased early inpatient opioid demand but significantly increased outpatient demand after adjusting for baseline patient and treatment characteristics. This study encourages the use of RA to decrease inpatient opioid use, although there was a worrisome increase in outpatient opioid demand.

Level of Evidence:

Level III: Retrospective, therapeutic cohort study
Preliminary Analysis of Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test Differences Between Healthy and Previously Injured/In-Pain Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Barfield Jeff W. , Bordelon Nicole M. , Wasserberger Kyle W. , Oliver Gretchen D.
Published: April 2022

Background:

A comprehensive examination of the kinetic chain during an overhead athlete’s upper extremity assessment, such as the closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability test (CKCUEST), may help clinicians identify potential upper extremity dysfunction.

Hypothesis:

Body position observed on dominant and nondominant hand touch during a CKCUEST trial differs between players with previous injury/pain history compared with healthy counterparts.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Methods:

Seventeen baseball pitchers were recruited to participate (18.03 ± 2.01 years; 185.40 ± 6.57 cm; 83.92 ± 13.87 kg). A medical history questionnaire was used to separate participants into groups, either previous injury/pain or healthy. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected on the participants performing the CKCUEST with an electromagnetic tracking system. Kinematics were analyzed using a pair of 1-way multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVAs).

Results:

The MANOVA for nondominant hand touch in the CKCUEST revealed a significant difference in lumbopelvic-hip complex (LPHC) kinematics between previously injured/pain group and healthy group (Λ = 0.37; F4,12 = 5.12; P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

The previously injured/pain group displayed less pelvic axial rotation and dominant hip abduction during the nondominant touch indicating more LPHC stability during the nondominant touch. In conclusion, differences were observed in LPHC kinematics during the CKCUEST nondominant touch between a healthy and previously injured/pain group perhaps due to the increased awareness provided through rehabilitative programs for the previously injured/pain group.

Clinical Relevance:

Clinicians can use this information to help address kinetic chain movement efficiency within baseball pitchers. This study provides evidence of LPHC kinematic differences during the nondominant touch of baseball pitchers and may enhance the use of the CKCUEST as a return-to-play assessment.
Toward 3D-bioprinting of an endocrine pancreas: A building-block concept for bioartificial insulin-secreting tissue
Authors: Salg Gabriel A , Poisel Eric , Neulinger-Munoz Matthias , Gerhardus Jamina , Cebulla Daniel , Bludszuweit-Philipp Catrin , Vieira Vitor , Nickel Felix , Herr Ingrid , Blaeser Andreas , Giese Nathalia A , Hackert Thilo , Kenngott Hannes G
Published: April 2022

Three-dimensional bioprinting of an endocrine pancreas is a promising future curative treatment for patients with insulin secretion deficiency. In this study, we present an end-to-end concept from the molecular to the macroscopic level. Building-blocks for a hybrid scaffold device of hydrogel and functionalized polycaprolactone were manufactured by 3D-(bio)printing. Pseudoislet formation from INS-1 cells after bioprinting resulted in a viable and proliferative experimental model. Transcriptomics showed an upregulation of proliferative and ß-cell-specific signaling cascades, downregulation of apoptotic pathways, overexpression of extracellular matrix proteins, and VEGF induced by pseudoislet formation and 3D-culture. Co-culture with endothelial cells created a natural cellular niche with enhanced insulin secretion after glucose stimulation. Survival and function of pseudoislets after explantation and extensive scaffold vascularization of both hydrogel and heparinized polycaprolactone were demonstrated in vivo. Computer simulations of oxygen, glucose and insulin flows were used to evaluate scaffold architectures and Langerhans islets at a future perivascular transplantation site.
Labor exportation, transnational production politics, and the formation of exploitation relationships—a case study of Chinese migrant workers in Japan
Authors: Liu Xinghua , Wang Yong
Published: April 2022

In the context of globalization, the exporting of labor from developing countries to developed countries has shaped a relationship of exploitation between employers and employees. This study presents the case of Chinese migrant workers’ overtime pay in Japan and explores the formation mechanisms of exploitation using the analytical framework of “transnational production politics”. Transnational migrant workers often see overtime as an indispensable opportunity to generate extra income to support families back home. This need is being taken advantage of by employers who habitually reduce overtime pay or do not pay for overtime at all. Overtime pay often becomes a focal point of labor conflict. Because of the limited protections for migrant workers in the labor laws of host countries, the power granted to employers by the host country's labor system, competition from migrant workers of other nationalities, and the selective involvement of transnational intermediaries, Chinese migrants suffer a dilemma of either surrendering to low overtime pay or losing overtime work, or even their job altogether. Whether to resist or surrender, it seems that the outcome is all the same for migrant workers: they lose and employers win. This “transnational production” polity exercises its market authoritarianism. Elements such as the constraints of the foreign labor system, loopholes in the system used by employers, the global surplus labor supply, and the separation of the processes of labor maintenance and labor renewal in the mode of labor reproduction typical to migrant labor reflect the transnational production politics peculiar to international contract labor mobility. This becomes an important mechanism for the re-emergence of the forced exploitation of capital in developed capitalist countries. Unlike the exploitative relationship between local workers and employers in developed countries, the exploitation between migrant workers and employers is born out of imbalanced development between countries. Migrant workers not only have no access to protections afforded by the host country's welfare system, but also are controlled by strict laws regarding foreign labor and are threatened by competition from other migrant workers. All this has put employers in a strongly advantageous position in labor conflicts.
Early experience in avoiding biopsies for biopsy-naïve men with clinical suspicion of prostate cancer but non-suspicious biparametric magnetic resonance imaging results and prostate-specific antigen density < 0.15 ng/mL2: A 2-year follow-up study
Authors: Kortenbach Karen-Cecilie , Løgager Vibeke , Thomsen Henrik S , Boesen Lars
Published: April 2022

Background

Only limited data have been published on the diagnostic accuracy of combining biparametric (bp) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and prostate-specific antigen density (PSAd) to rule out biopsies.

Purpose

The purpose is to assess the 2-year risk of being diagnosed with sPCa following the strategy of avoiding immediate biopsies in men with non-suspicious bp MRIs and a PSAd <0.15 ng/mL2.

Material and Methods

Two hundred biopsy-naïve men with clinical suspicion of PCa underwent a pre-biopsy bp MRI from March to July 2019. Of these, 109 men had a Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) score of 1–3 including 77 men with calculated PSAd <0.15 ng/mL2. As a result, no biopsies were performed in these 77 men, who were clinically followed up for at least 2 years and re-examined in case of rising suspicion of sPCa. The remaining 32 men with a calculated PSAd ≥0.15 ng/mL2 underwent systematic biopsies and targeted biopsies of any PI-RADS 3 lesion.

Results

One of the 77 men (1.3%) had an sPCa diagnosed within 2 years of follow-up. All men were referred back to their general practitioner within 1 year and 9% (7/77) were re-referred to the urology department during follow-up. Among these men, 43% (3/7) continued to have PSA levels that were above their individual thresholds at confirmatory testing and underwent secondary MRI scans.

Conclusions

No biopsies for men with bpMRI results exhibiting maximum PI-RADS 3 and with a PSAd <0.15 ng/mL2 resulted in a 2-year risk of being diagnosed with sPCa of 1.3%.