bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covid-19: Home Health Aides’ Perceived Preparedness and Self-Reported Availability for Work: Six Month Survey Results
Authors: Feldman Penny H. , Barrón Yolanda , Onorato Nicole , Russell David , Sterling Madeline R. , McDonald Margaret
Published: September 2023

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic New York City home health aides continuously provided care, including to patients actively infected or recovering from COVID-19. Analyzing survey data from 1316 aides, we examined factors associated with perceptions of how well their employer prepared them for COVID-19 and their self-reported availability for work (did they “call out” more than usual). Organizational work environment and COVID-19-related supports were predominant predictors of self-reported perceptions of preparedness. Worker characteristics and COVID-19-related stressors were predominant predictors of self-reported availability. Mental distress, satisfaction with employer communications, and satisfaction with supervisor instructions were significantly associated with both outcomes. The study uniquely describes self-reported perceptions of preparedness and availability as two separate worker outcomes potentially modifiable by different interventions. Better public health emergency training and adequate protective equipment may increase aides’ perceived preparedness; more household supports could facilitate their availability. More effective employer communications and mental health initiatives could potentially improve both outcomes. Industry collaboration and systemic changes in federal, state, and local policies should enhance intervention impacts.
Patient Safety and Suitability for Primary Cleft Lip Repair as Day Case Surgery – A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Martin Serena V. , Reed Benedict , Fallico Nefer
Published: September 2023

Objective

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine if day case cleft lip surgery has an impact on complications and 30-day readmission rate.

Design

A systematic review was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Databases included; PubMed, Science Direct, Ovid and Cochrane. Search terms; “Day Case”, “Day Care”, “outpatient”, “Ambulatory” AND “Cleft”, “Cleft Lip”. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.

Setting

Eligible study types included; randomised controlled trials, observational studies (prospective and retrospective) and case series.

Patients/Participants

Paediatric patients undergoing primary cleft lip repair.

Interventions

Day case surgery versus inpatient admission post-operative.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Primary outcome measure: Primary cleft lip repair performed as a day case in paediatric patients. Secondary outcome measures: 1. Complication rates and 30-day re-admission to hospital rate. 2. Patient suitability for day case surgery.

Results

Ten papers with 13 804 patients undergoing primary cleft lip repair were included, 28% were discharged on the day of surgery (Range 17%-81%). There was no significant difference in complication rate between the inpatient and day case cohorts. There was a significant reduction in 30-day readmission rates in the day case cohort.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis indicates there is no difference in complication rates for patients discharged on the day of surgery compared to those admitted overnight. Complications encountered were infrequent, non-life threatening and often occurred more than 24 h following discharge. There was an observed reduction in 30-day readmission rates for day-case patients. This is likely to represent a variation in baseline characteristics which deemed them suitable for day case surgery pre-operatively.
Half Just or Half Unjust? the Influence of Dispositional Optimism on the Link Between Interpersonal Peer Injustice, Negative Emotions and Sleep Problems
Authors: Ohana Marc , Fortin Marion
Published: September 2023

While optimism – a cognitive disposition that involves positive beliefs about the future – is a strong predictor of wellbeing at work, we know little about its role in how people experience and respond to injustice at work. In other words, does optimism mitigate or exacerbate the experience of workplace injustice? This is an important practical question because optimism is a promising avenue for interventions. Taking an affective events perspective, we expect that daily events of peer injustice trigger affective reactions, and that the degree of trait optimism will influence the strength of these affective reactions. Thus, we develop two competing predictions. The reverse buffer hypothesis, which suggests that optimists’ heightened expectations lead to increased disappointment and hence more negative emotions in the face of injustice, and the buffer hypothesis, which suggests that optimists’ better use of coping strategies allows them to experience less negative emotions. In a 10-day diary study with 251 employees, we find support for the buffer hypothesis of optimism on peer injustice experiences: those higher in optimism reported fewer negative emotions and lower levels of sleep problems the night following such experiences. Our findings illustrate how cognitive and emotional mechanisms interact in predicting reactions to injustice, particularly sleep problems.
Baby Steps Toward Connection: A Heuristic Inquiry of Postpartum Mothers’ Experience With a Latin Dance Group Counseling Intervention
Authors: Horton Emily , Robledo Carolina Gisela “Cuquis”
Published: September 2023

Motherhood involves intense physical, psychological, and identity transformation, and mental health difficulties can arise through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experiences. Dismantling group counselors’ participation in relying on Eurocentric counseling ideologies can involve reclaiming the indigenous roots of counseling and healing, including integrating Latin dance as a modality for social connection and internal healing for postpartum mothers. We explore coresearchers’ experiences with a group that embodied Latin values and culture, specifically music and dance. Findings from a heuristic inquiry elucidate the experiences of four postpartum mothers and their babies who danced and connected through a Latin dance group counseling intervention.
Investigation of the Effect of an Online Supportive Education Program on the Family Caregivers’ Resilience and Abuse of People with Dementia: A Controlled Randomized Trial
Authors: Afshari Mojgan , Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Hajati Gholamreza , Pashaei Ava , Sayadi Leila
Published: September 2023

Dementia and its progressive nature necessitate care and impose dependency on family caregivers, exposing them to psychological distress and even abuse of people with dementia. The effects of psychological distress and subsequent abuse can be lessened with increased resilience. This study investigates the effect of a supportive online education program on family caregivers’ resilience and abuse of people with dementia. In total, 74 family caregivers of dementia patients participated in this controlled randomized trial, which was conducted from February 2022 to July 2022. Data were gathered using the Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire, and the Caregiver Abuse Screen. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software using descriptive and inferential statistics. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of baseline variables, resilience, and abuse. The intervention resulted in no significant difference in the scores of resilience ( p = .08) and abuse ( p = .447). Both the intervention ( p = .430) and control ( p = .082) groups showed no evidence of a significant change in resilience between before and after the intervention. However, a significant difference was found in the abuse scores before and after the study in the intervention group ( p = .022). The intervention did not significantly affect family caregivers’ resilience and abuse of people with dementia, but it reduced abuse in the intervention group. Taking note of these results, this study proposes other solutions to improve outcomes, and also education and support of family caregivers to diminish their abuse of people with dementia.
Paving the Way for a Sustainable Society: Assessing the Inclusive Tourism Development in Transition China
Authors: Cheng Zhe , Wang Rui , Li Yun , Dai Juncheng
Published: September 2023

Inclusive tourism is a key part of an increasingly sustainable tourism development and harmony society. However, the degree, characteristics, and shortcomings of regional inclusive tourism development remain understudied. To holistically understand and describe the development of inclusive tourism in China, we develop an assessment model for inclusive tourism development from three dimensions: tourism stakeholders, economic inclusion, and tourism resources and environments. The spatial pattern and characteristics of China’s provincial inclusive tourism development is measured and classified. Furthermore, we conduct an in-depth discussion combined with specific indicators and propose the targeted suggestions. This study provides a basis for optimizing policies and practices of inclusive tourism in China. In addition, this study also contributes to the global body of knowledge surrounding inclusive tourism and provides the referee value for other countries.
Thrombin Generation Decrease After LMWH Administration in an Antithrombin-Deficient Pregnant Woman With a Homozygous HBS II Mutation
Authors: Malikova Ivana , Husakova Martina , Bilkova Jana , Brzezkova Radka , Hrachovinova Ingrid , Kvasnicka Tomas
Published: September 2023

The cases of antithrombin (AT)-deficient pregnant women with a homozygous HBS II mutation are relatively rare and are accompanied by an increased thrombophilic risk, which is manifested by increased thrombin generation (TG). It is very difficult to ensure their prophylactic treatment during pregnancy. We aimed to determine the utility of the thrombin generation assay (TGA) and anti-factor Xa (anti-FXa) test to monitor the effects of a prophylactic dose of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) in a 28-year-old woman with homozygous AT deficiency caused by mutation c.391C > T#, (p.Leu131Phe†) in the SERPINC1 gene and to compare the findings with those from a group of pregnant and non-pregnant women also treated with LMWH. TG monitoring was chosen due to severe AT deficiency that was manifested by low levels of anti-FXa activity when monitoring the efficacy of LMWH treatment. A significant decrease in TG was detected in all monitored groups ( P < .05). There were no thrombotic complications during the whole pregnancy of the woman with AT deficiency. Consistent monitoring of TG with LMWH anticoagulant therapy administration during pregnancy together with AT administration before and after delivery may improve the overall condition of pregnant women and the quality of their care.
Investigation on active vibration isolation with multi-axis control: Analysis and experiment
Authors: Ren Mingke , Zheng Shiruo , Xie Xiling , Zhang Zhiyi
Published: September 2023

Vibration isolators are usually used to attenuate the transmission of vibration of power machinery to the flexible foundation. Since vibration energy is transferred nearly through all the degrees of freedom of an isolator, it is difficult to guarantee sufficient vibration attenuation by the single-axis control at each active isolator. In order to enhance attenuation at each vibration isolator, a novel configuration of active vibration isolation is proposed. Each active isolator is composed of two rubber isolators and one intermediate rigid mass in which eight electromagnetic actuators and six error accelerometers are attached. Six control forces are applied on the intermediate mass to suppress its multi-axis vibration. Moreover, the weakened interaction between isolators allows independent local control at each isolator. A numerical model is established to verify the proposed active vibration isolation and the results show that the transmission of vibration from the source to the flexible hull structure can be nearly cut off when the error vibrations of each intermediate mass are attenuated completely. The effectiveness is also proved by an experimental active vibration isolation system and the proposed isolation configuration with multi-axis control can achieve more significant attenuation of vibration of the hull structure than the commonly used active vibration isolation with only single-axis control.
The influence of blade fracture on the internal flow characteristics and rotor system of horizontal centrifugal pumps
Authors: Tan Zhengsheng , Duan Xunxing , Zhou Chaojun
Published: September 2023

The blade fracture of horizontal centrifugal pump will not only affect the hydraulic performance of the pump, but also affect the safety and stability of the whole unit. In this paper, for horizontal centrifugal pumps, five single-blade fracture schemes are designed and numerical simulations are carried out under different operating conditions. The results show that with the increase of fracture size, the influence on the hydraulic characteristics of the pump shows a decreasing trend, and it will also affect the turbulent kinetic energy distribution near the impeller inlet, so that the internal flow becomes complex and the flow loss increases. The radial force on the impeller changes periodically, and its magnitude shows a nonlinear decreasing change with the increase of the fracture size. The pressure pulsation analysis of several monitoring points in the worm shell shows that as the fracture size increases, the amplitude of the lobe frequency slowly rises, and the shaft frequency, which is second only to the lobe frequency, becomes higher and higher and begins to dominate. A study of the rotor system shows that the maximum deformation of the impeller occurs at the edge of the impeller cover and the maximum equivalent stress occurs at the blade exit; blade fracture causes a significant reduction in the latter third-order intrinsic frequency.
The Impact of Child Polyvictimization and Cultural Factors on Lifetime Intimate Partner Violence Among Salvadoran Women
Authors: Kim Chunrye , Vasquez Lidia , Rajah Valli
Published: September 2023

This study examined the impact of child abuse on intimate partner violence (IPV) among a representative sample of 3,296 women using the Violence Against Women National Survey data from El Salvador. We found that child physical, sexual, and psychological abuse were independently associated with IPV, and experiencing child polyvictimization, along with having a controlling husband increased the risk of IPV victimization. To prevent child abuse (poly)victimization and IPV, and its negative consequences in El Salvador, implementing programs that focus on group training for women and men, as well as, community mobilizations that involve multiple stakeholders with multiple approaches would be beneficial.
Time Required for Gross Examination of Routine Second and Third Trimester Singleton Placentas by Pathologists’ Assistants
Authors: Horn Christopher , Engel Nicole , Drouin Dominique , Haley John , Holder Cameron , Hung Lina , Royall Lorraine , McInnis Patricia , de Koning Lawrence , Chan Elaine S.
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

In both Canada and the United States, workload measurement for anatomic pathology is mainly based on complexity and clinical significance of specimens, with gross examination being a considerable contributor. While Pathologists’ Assistants (PAs) play an increasing role in gross examination, there is little known regarding the time required for PAs to complete grossing tasks. This information is essential for effective staffing and workload management in pathology laboratories. The objective of our study was to determine the time required for PAs to gross second and third trimester singleton placentas in a large tertiary hospital with a significant perinatal pathology service.

Materials and Methods:

For our study, 7 certified PAs each grossed a minimum of 10 second and third trimester singleton placentas using a standard placental grossing protocol, an electronic laboratory information system, and voice recognition dictation software. Placental specimens requiring photography, sampling for ancillary studies, or immediate pathologist’s consultation were excluded. We calculated average and standard deviation of grossing times for each PA, overall average grossing time, and 95% confidence interval using a mixed linear regression model. We analyzed the impact of PA job experience, degree obtained, and number of blocks prepared on overall average in a multivariate analysis.

Results:

The mean grossing times for each PA ranged from 11.0 (standard deviation [sd] = 2.0) to 17.8 (sd = 4.5) minutes. The overall average grossing time was 14.5 minutes, with a 95% confidence interval of 11.7 to 17.3 minutes. In multivariate analysis, an increase in the number of blocks prepared was significantly associated with longer overall average grossing time. If 4 blocks were prepared consistently, the model predicted a slightly lower overall average of 13.3 minutes, with a 95% confidence interval of 10.9 to 15.7 minutes.

Discussion:

To our knowledge, our study is the first to objectively report time required for PAs to perform gross examinations of routine second and third trimester singleton placentas. The methodology of our study is replicable and can be applied to other specimen types and laboratory settings. Previously, estimated grossing times for specimens were primarily based on retrospective surveys, which were susceptible to recall errors and subjectivity. However, our study demonstrates objective data collection is achievable. Furthermore, the data collected from this study offer valuable insights into the accuracy of previous and current pathology workload models for second and third trimester singleton placentas.
Aqueous misdirection syndrome post silicone oil removal in a vitrectomized eye – a case report
Authors: Sindal Manavi D , Mohankumar Arthi , Gondhale Harshal , CK Nagesha , Srinivasan Kavitha
Published: September 2023

Puropse

Aqueous misdirection syndrome (AMS) is an aggressive post-operative glaucoma unresponsive to conventional measures with grave outcomes. In this report, we describe a rare case of AMS following silicon oil removal in a vitrectomized eye.

Methods

A diabetic patient with tractional retinal detachment underwent pars plana vitrectomy with silicon oil injection. Following retinal reattachment, silicon oil removal was performed at three months. Post oil removal she developed increased intraocular pressure with shallowing of both the peripheral and central anterior chamber suggestive of AMS.

Results

Initial medical management with anti-glaucoma medications and cycloplegics was not beneficial. A pars plana lensectomy with complete anterior hyaloidectomy along with a surgical peripheral iridectomy helped relieve the aqueous misdirection.

Conclusion

AMS can rarely occur following vitrectomy and is likely secondary to intact anterior hyaloid. Lensectomy along with zonulo-hyaloido-iridectomy is essential. This report highlights the occurrence of this rare complication and its effective management.
Modified partial Jensen procedure to treat a hypertropic Knobby eye syndrome in a high myopic monocular patient
Authors: Rachid Elza , Mansour Hana , Ibrahim Perla , Al-Haddad Christiane , Haddad Randa , Hassan Sally Al , Bou Ghannam Alaa
Published: September 2023

We present a case of severe esotropia and hypertropia in a monocular high myope with an inferolateral staphyloma. Surgery was undertaken to secure the inferior rectus to the lateral rectus via a modified partial Jensen technique, along with medial rectus recession successfully improving head and eye positions and ductions.
News frames for COVID-19 – a comparison of Australian (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) and Vietnamese (Tuoi Tre Online) online news services in two key weeks in 2020
Authors: Le Viet Tho , Green Lelia
Published: September 2023

This article investigates the differences and similarities between the news frames used by online mainstream media in Vietnam and Australia when reporting COVID-19 in the early waves of the pandemic. The project uses constant comparative analysis to interrogate data gathered from two online news sources: ABC Online (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) in Australia, and Tuoi Tre Online in Vietnam. The article concludes that the Australian Broadcasting Corporation coverage focuses more on social, political and economic factors than is the case with Tuoi Tre Online, which foregrounds civic responsibility in response to the COVID-19 epidemic. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation highlights how COVID-19 amplifies the long-term consequences of social disadvantage while Tuoi Tre Online, in contrast, emphasises the short-term, acute community impacts of outbreaks, given that these require rapid identification and control. It is argued that differences between the Australian Broadcasting Corporation's and Tuoi Tre Online's framings of the pandemic reflect national differences in governance of disasters. Tuoi Tre Online perceives healthy citizenry as soldiers, and constructs the vulnerable and infected as challenges to the biological safety of the whole: the majority social collective. In contrast, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation frames vulnerable and infected individuals as important, focussing on their rights and on the responsibilities of mainstream society towards those who are at risk.
Computer-assisted drug discovery of potential natural inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase through a multi-phase in silico approach
Authors: Elkaeed Eslam B , Alsfouk Bshra A , Ibrahim Tuqa H , Arafa Reem K , Elkady Hazem , Ibrahim Ibrahim M , Eissa Ibrahim H , Metwaly Ahmed M
Published: September 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant loss of life and economic disruption worldwide. Currently, there are limited effective treatments available for this disease. SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (SARS-CoV-2 RdRp) has been identified as a potential target for drug development against COVID-19. Natural products have been shown to possess antiviral properties, making them a promising source for developing drugs against SARS-CoV-2.

Objectives

The objective of this study is to identify the most effective natural inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 RdRp among a set of 4924 African natural products using a multi-phase in silico approach.

Methods

The study utilized remdesivir (RTP), the co-crystallized ligand of RdRp, as a starting point to select compounds that have the most similar chemical structures among the examined set of compounds. Molecular fingerprints and structure similarity studies were carried out in the first part of the study. The second part of the study included molecular docking against SARS-CoV-2 RdRp (PDB ID: 7BV2) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations including the calculation of RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, hydrogen bonding, and PLIP. Moreover, the calculations of Molecular mechanics with generalised Born and surface area solvation (MM-GBSA) Lennard-Jones and Columbic electrostatic interaction energies have been conducted. Additionally, in silico ADMET and toxicity studies were performed to examine the drug likeness degrees of the selected compounds.

Results

Eight compounds were identified as the most effective natural inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 RdRp. These compounds are kaempferol 3-galactoside, kaempferol 3- O- β-D-glucopyranoside, mangiferin methyl ether, luteolin 7- O- β-D-glucopyranoside, quercetin- O- β-D-3-glucopyranoside, 1-methoxy-3-indolylmethyl glucosinolate, naringenin, and asphodelin A 4’- O- β-D-glucopyranoside.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide valuable information for the development of natural product-based drugs against COVID-19. However, the elected compounds should be further studied in vitro and in vivo to confirm their efficacy in treating COVID-19.
Reading penalty from the periphery
Authors: Sozzo Máximo
Published: September 2023

This article presents a critical reflection on the task of reading penality from the periphery, adding to several significant contributions in punishment and society studies. It explores the center/periphery, North/South differentiations and their uses in recent social theory as a useful tool for studying contemporary penality at a global scale. It argues that previous modes of analysis did not put relations of inequality, subordination and dependence between different regions of the world in their agenda of research, because they were overwhelmingly concerned with penal processes and dynamics in the central contexts. Instead, it calls for placing at center stage the effects of imperialism and colonialism, in their different forms throughout history, in ways of thinking and acting in relation to penality and the center/periphery. From there, the article identifies some paradoxes and risks, as well as antidotes that provide a horizon for our future research.
Flow and acoustics in a model rocket flame deflector and deflector cover
Authors: Yenigelen Evren , Morris Philip J
Published: September 2023

The design of a rocket launch environment is a complex process with many different aspects that are highly interconnected. Acoustics, which is one of these, should be investigated in detail due to possible devastating effects on the launch vehicle, crew, and launch environment. This study uses a numerical method to consider a passive noise reduction method applied to a supersonic jet impinging on an inclined flame deflector to decrease the acoustic loads on the launch vehicle and noise levels in the far-field. In a supersonic jet impinging on an inclined flat plate configuration, acoustic waves that travel upstream originate from the impingement and wall jet regions. These upstream traveling waves are a combination of the acoustic waves that are produced by the high speed jet flows in the wall jet region and acoustic waves that reflect from the impingement wall. Due to the inclination of the impingement plate, these waves either travel to the far-field in the upstream direction or travel towards the free-jet region interacting with the high speed flow near the nozzle lip. This interaction can create a self sustaining feedback loop, which can cause acoustic tones to appear in the near- and far-field spectra. It is the aim of the present study to block the upstream traveling waves by introducing a second inclined wall with a circular cut-out between the nozzle exit and the impingement plate. Different configurations with different wall locations and cut-out sizes are investigated using a Detached Eddy Simulation CFD solver and an acoustic solver that is based on the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings analogy. The mechanisms for the establishment of the feedback loops are examined.
Comparison of Spectral Analysis of Gamma Band Activity During Actual and Imagined Movements as a Cognitive Tool
Authors: Kumawat Jitendra , Yadav Anuradha , Yadav Kavita , Gaur Kusum Lata
Published: September 2023

Background. Imagined motor movement is a cognitive process in which a subject imagines a movement without doing it, which activates similar brain regions as during actual motor movement. Brain gamma band activity (GBA) is linked to cognitive functions such as perception, attention, memory, awareness, synaptic plasticity, motor control, and Imagination. Motor imagery can be used in sports to improve performance, raising the possibility of using it as a rehabilitation method through brain plasticity through mirror neurons. Method. A comparative observational study was conducted on 56 healthy male subjects after obtaining clearance from the Ethics Committee. EEG recordings for GBA were taken for resting, real, and imaginary motor movements and compared. The power spectrum of gamma waves was analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test; a p-value <.05 was considered significant. Results. The brain gamma rhythm amplitude was statistically increased during both actual and imaginary motor movement compared to baseline (resting stage) in most of the regions of the brain except the occipital region. There was no significant difference in GBA between real and imaginary movements. Conclusions. Increased gamma rhythm amplitude during both actual and imaginary motor movement than baseline (resting stage) indicating raised brain cognitive activity during both types of movements. There was no potential difference between real and imaginary movements suggesting that the real movement can be replaced by the imaginary movement to enhance work performance through mirror therapy.
Machine learning based prediction of length of stay in acute ischaemic stroke of the anterior circulation in patients treated with thrombectomy
Authors: Feyen Ludger , Pinz-Bogesits Jan , Blockhaus Christian , Katoh Marcus , Haage Patrick , Nitsch Louisa , Schaub Christina
Published: September 2023

Background

Length of stay is an important factor for managing the limited resources of a hospital. The early, accurate prediction of hospital length of stay leads to the optimized disposition of resources particularly in complex stroke treatment.

Objective

In the present study we evaluated different machine learning techniques in their ability to predict the length of stay of patients with stroke of the anterior circulation who were treated with thrombectomy.

Material and methods

This retrospective study evaluated four algorithms (support vector machine, generalized linear model, K-nearest neighbour and Random Forest) to predict the length of hospitalization of 113 patients with acute stroke who were treated with thrombectomy. Input variables encompassed baseline data at admission, as well as periprocedural and imaging data. Ten-fold cross-validation was used to estimate accuracy. The accuracy of the algorithms was checked with a test dataset. In addition to regression analysis, we performed a binary classification analysis to identify patients that stayed longer than the mean length of stay.

Results

Mean length of stay was 10.7 days (median 10, interquartile range 6–15). The sensitivity of the best-performing Random Forest model was 0.8, the specificity was 0.68 and the area under the curve was 0.73 in the classification analysis. The mean absolute error of the best-performing Random Forest Model was 4.6 days in the test dataset in the regression analysis.

Conclusion

Machine learning has potential use to estimate the length of stay of patients with acute ischaemic stroke that were treated with thrombectomy.
Virtual reality simulation training in stroke thrombectomy centers with limited patient volume—Simulator performance and patient outcome
Authors: Søvik Olav , Tveiten Arnstein , Øygarden Halvor , Stokkeland Pål Johan , Hetland Hanne Brit , Schneider Magnus Sundgot , Sandve Knut Olav , Altmann Marianne , Hykkerud Dan Levi , Ospel Johanna , Goyal Mayank , Ersdal Hege Langli , Kurz Martin Wilhelm , Hyldmo Per Kristian
Published: September 2023

Background

Virtual reality simulation training may improve the technical skills of interventional radiologists when establishing endovascular thrombectomy at limited-volume stroke centers. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the technical thrombectomy performance of interventional radiologists improved after a defined virtual reality simulator training period. As part of the quality surveillance of clinical practice, we also assessed patient outcomes and thrombectomy quality indicators at the participating centers.

Methods

Interventional radiologists and radiology residents from three thrombectomy-capable stroke centers participated in a five months thrombectomy skill-training curriculum on a virtual reality simulator. The simulator automatically registered procedure time, the number of predefined steps that were correctly executed, handling errors, contrast volume, fluoroscopy time, and radiation dose exposure. The design was a before-after study. Two simulated thrombectomy cases were used as pretest and posttest cases, while seven other cases were used for training. Utilizing the Norwegian Stroke Register, we investigated clinical results in thrombectomy during the study period.

Results

Nineteen interventional radiologists and radiology residents participated in the study. The improvement between pretest and posttest cases was statistically significant for all outcome measures in both simulated cases, except for the contrast volume used in one case. Clinical patient outcomes in all three centers were well within the recommendations from multi-society consensus guidelines.

Conclusion

Performance on the virtual reality simulator improved after training. Virtual reality simulation may improve the learning curve for interventional radiologists in limited-volume thrombectomy centers. No correlation alleged, the clinical data indicates that the centers studied performed thrombectomy in accordance with guideline-recommended standards.
Socio-Clinical factors associated with Parkinson's disease–related specific self-management behaviours
Authors: Kafri Michal , Abu Taieh Maram , Duvdevani Michal , Schlesinger Ilana , Nassar Maria , Erich Ilana , Hadad Rafi , Yogev-Seligmann Galit
Published: September 2023

Objective

To test associations between socio-clinical factors, self-management and patient activation among patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), and to explore the use of regression tree to find the cut-off levels of socio-clinical factors which associate with lower or higher self-management behaviours and patient's activation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of patients with PD ( n = 62) who underwent assessment of their socio-clinical factors including age, gender, cognitive status, comorbidities, disease severity (motor and non-motor symptoms) and social support. The associations of these factors to specific aspects of self-management behaviours including utilization of rehabilitative treatments, physical activity and patient activation were tested.

Results

Most patients did not utilize rehabilitative treatments. Non-motor symptoms and cognitive status were significantly associated with physical activity ( R2 = 0.35, F(3, 58) = 10.50, p < 0.001). Non-motor symptoms were significantly associated with patient activation ( R2 = 0.30, F(1, 30) = 25.88, p < 0.001). Patients with Mini-Mental State Exam score ≤24 performed less physical activity, relative to those with a higher score. Patients with ≤5 non-motor symptoms showed higher activation relative to those with >5.

Conclusion

In PD, disease-specific clinical characteristics overshadow other personal factors as determinants of self-management behaviours. The role of non-motor symptoms in reduced self-management behaviours and activation is highlighted.
‘At the end of the course, where is their progression’? The paradox of progression for former so-called not in education, employment, and training youth
Authors: Cornish Carlene
Published: September 2023

It is often presumed that when students complete a particular entry course at college, the acquisition of that qualification should grant access to the next, higher level of study. There is a dearth of academic research on the actual progression outcomes for so-called not in education, employment, and training (NEET) and disengaged youth, enrolled on an employability course. Purportedly, the employability qualifications should enable students to progress towards higher levels of study, but do they? Adopting a case study approach, research was conducted with seven tutors and 26 students enrolled on the 2013 and 2014 Level 1 Achieving Skills Course, an employability course delivered at The Site, a FE college in the East Region. The college’s database was also accessed to review success and progression outcomes. Highlighting discrepancy and controversy, key findings revealed that most participants were unable to progress onto higher level courses at The Site. Instead, they were recorded as either NEET or destination unknown. This paper reveals key factors impeding progression and the reification of NEET identities on this course. It calls for political debate and a sharper inspection into the quality of re-engagement provisions for so-called NEET and disengaged youth.
Health information management and physiotherapy faculty collaboration to discover the use of health informatics hiding in plain sight in an entry-level DPT program
Authors: Gibbs David , Gibbs Karen , Hewitt Barbara
Published: September 2023

Background: Many educational disciplines, especially in health professions, are required by accrediting bodies to introduce or include health informatics (HI); however, faculty (academics) teaching this content may not be well prepared. Objective: The aim of this project was to explore how a doctoral physical therapy (DPT) program could more accurately represent compliance with HI accreditation requirements by identifying hidden instances of relevant content within the curriculum. Method: This exploratory, mixed methods, action research study utilised document review, questionnaires and interviews in the collection of quantitative and qualitative data to enable assessment of knowledge about HI, to determine if HI content was already incorporated in current courses, and, whether the content was accurately reflected in course student learning objectives (SLOs). Change in faculty understanding of HI as a result of this study was also assessed. Results: Of 16 DPT faculty, 13 participated in the pre-interview questionnaire; 8 (50%) representing 22/39 courses participated in the full study. Most were unfamiliar with HI and had unrecognised HI already incorporated in their courses leading to several SLO revisions and additions. Interview and post-interview questionnaire results documented significant increases in HI understanding among faculty. Conclusion: Physical therapy and HIM collaboration was successful in identifying HI content hiding in plain sight. Results revealed multiple instances of unrecognised HI content across the DPT curriculum. Revised and newly added SLOs, with others likely to follow due to this study, will assist faculty with future reaccreditation and in preparing graduates to more fully utilise HI in today’s digital healthcare environments.
Did a USB drive disrupt a nuclear program? A Defense in Depth (DiD) teaching case
Authors: Datta Pratim M. , Acton Thomas
Published: September 2023

Defense in Depth (DiD) has become an industry buzzword. But practicing DiD is easier said than done. While cybersecurity researchers have predominantly focused on securing corporate networks, there remains a serious gap in endpoint-threat awareness. Yet endpoint threats were the progenitor of 68% of breaches and hacks in 2019 (Computers Nationwide, 2022), a vulnerability that increased during the COVID-19 lockdown with relaxed BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies, more IoTs, and cheaper and larger USB flash drives. This teaching case uses the 2009 Stuxnet attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities to exemplify how a single USB drive was used as an endpoint threat to disrupt a nuclear infrastructure, drawing attention to the need for and how to practice DiD to counter towering complexities ushered in burgeoning endpoints cyberattacks, from hacks to ransomware. The case shows the need for DiD to simultaneously pay heed toward physical, technical, and processual (administrative) measures to prevent, defend, and mitigate cyberattacks, from hacks to ransomware. The case and its teaching notes highlight the opportunities and challenges of practicing DiD for endpoints, from flash drives to IoTs.
Reproducing whiteness? A critical race analysis of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ process for drafting the framework for secondary religious education
Authors: Sellers Kathleen M.
Published: September 2023

This article draws on critical race theory and social reproduction theory to analyze the process resulting in the curriculum framework for secondary, Catholic, religious education in the US. This document, promulgated by Church leaders, has impacted millions of US Catholic high school students. Recent calls for racial justice, within and outside of the Catholic Church, invite inquiry into whether this framework is impacting all students equally. This article explores two key questions: Whose knowledge mattered in the creation of the Framework? Was the Framework constructed so as to support the creation of a culturally-sustaining religion curriculum for all students? This analysis demonstrates why the Framework may be problematic for Students of Color and suggests Catholic leaders and educators must learn more from critical race scholars and education researchers if they are to enhance the quality of this and future pedagogical resources for religious instruction. Recommendations are made for addressing the issues raised.
The association of aspartate transaminase-to-alanine transaminase ratio and metabolic syndrome among HIV patients in Sidama Region, South Ethiopia
Authors: Abera Wondwossen , Wube Temesgen Bizuayehu , Alemayehu Tsegaye
Published: September 2023

Objective:

Studies on the association of the aspartate transaminase-to-alanine transaminase ratio with the metabolic syndrome and its components among HIV patients were scarce. This study aims to determine the association between the aspartate transaminase-to-alanine transaminase ratio and the metabolic syndrome and its components in adult HIV patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted on 302 HIV patients from January 15 to June 30, 2021. Sociodemographic, clinical, and anthropometric data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The patient’s medical records were reviewed. Biochemical analysis was performed after 5 ml of venous blood was collected from each study participant. Metabolic syndrome was defined by the third report of the national cholesterol education program-adult treatment panel. Logistic regression was done to assess the association of MetS with the independent variables, and correlation analysis was performed to see the correlation of MetS components with the aspartate aminotransferase-to-alanine aminotransferase ratio.

Result:

302 HIV—positive patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy were included in this study, and 54.6% were female. The median and interquartile range of the age of the study participants were 41 (35–50) years. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 29.5% (confidence interval = 24.5–35.1). Chronic illness (Adjusted odds ratio = 4.8, confidence interval = 2.2–10.9) and aspartate aminotransferase-to-alanine aminotransferase ratio (adjusted odds ratio = 2.5, confidence interval = 1.4–4.4) were significantly associated with Metabolic syndrome among the study participants. The aspartate aminotransferase-to-alanine aminotransferase ratio was significantly correlated with blood pressure.

Conclusion:

This study found the existence of a significant association between the aspartate aminotransferase-to-alanine aminotransferase ratio and metabolic syndrome among HIV patients.
Tiger Parenting Beyond Cultural Essentialism: Discourses of Class, Culture, and Competition in Hong Kong
Authors: Kobakhidze Magda Nutsa , Ma (马莹) Ying , Tsaloukidis Alexandros
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study explores a nuanced understanding of tiger parenting by moving beyond cultural essentialist perspectives and an East (Chinese)-versus-West binary framework.

Design/Approach/Methods

The study draws on data from 80 parents in Hong Kong SAR, an example of a culturally-hybrid East Asian metropolis. We applied maximum variation sampling to recruit participants with diverse school choices encompassing different education levels, occupations, social classes, and ethnicities. We used semi-structured interviews to investigate parental beliefs, practices, and understandings of tiger parenting.

Findings

The findings suggest that tiger parenting is a cross-class and cross-culture phenomenon that would be more fruitfully analyzed by considering parental mindsets, educational structures, peer pressure, generational influences, cultural roots, class preferences, and global aspirations. We posit that tiger parenting and similar parenting practices are increasingly necessitated by fiercely competitive education systems, and becoming globalized across ethnic groups and social class spectrums.

Originality/Value

This study contributes to the discussion on tiger parenting by highlighting previously understudied factors underpinning the concept. We argue that our analytical approach avoids the previous narrow and cultural essentialist understanding of tiger parenting, and advances the theoretical cogency of the concept.
Double-Chambered Left Ventricle Diagnosed in Fetus and Follow-up During the First Year of Life: A Case Report
Authors: Hakim Kaouthar , Benothmen Rihab , Msaad Hela , Frikha Wassim , Mizouni Habiba , Ouarda Fatma
Published: September 2023

Double-chambered left ventricle (DCLV) is a rare congenital cardiac lesion. It is usually an incidental finding in children and young adults. Diagnosis during fetal life is exceedingly rare. We report a case of DCLV diagnosed in the prenatal period associated with a ventricular septal defect (VSD). Transthoracic echocardiographic and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the prenatal findings. At seven-month follow-up, the baby was asymptomatic. Transthoracic echocardiographic check-up revealed spontaneous closure of the VSD and stable aspect of the main left ventricle and the accessory chamber.
Overlapping regionalism around the world: Introducing the overlapping regionalism dataset
Authors: Panke Diana , Stapel Sören
Published: September 2023

Regional cooperation often leads to the establishment of regional international organizations (RIOs). Due to the increasing number of RIOs, their growing membership size and their broadening policy scope, RIOs frequently overlap with each other with regard to membership and mandate. Overlaps may lead to conflicts amongst affected organizations and potentially limit the prospects for regional prosperity and peace. Although overlapping regionalism has become ubiquitous in many regions, we do not systematically know the extent of the phenomenon. Therefore, the paper presents an original dataset about overlapping regionalism and introduces a typology of overlaps between two RIOs. The OVREG dataset includes both raw data of shared member states and policy competencies and information about distinct types of overlap between affected RIOs for 73 RIOs, 193 states and 344 policy competencies in the period between 1945 and 2020. A descriptive analysis of trajectories and patterns shows that overlapping regionalism in general and the different overlap types have spread over time and across world regions. Nevertheless, regional particularities persist. Thus, the OVREG dataset allows for examining the causes of overlaps, the potential negative consequences of overlapping regionalism and the variety of coping mechanisms at the disposal of affected RIOs.