bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and outcomes of previously healthy critically ill patients with COVID-19: A population-based cohort
Authors: Oud Lavi , Garza John
Published: December 2023

Comorbid conditions represent a major risk for severe illness among persons with COVID-19. Previously healthy people with COVID-19 can also develop severe illness, but are expected to have better outcomes than those with comorbid conditions. Nevertheless, recent data suggest that the former may have, counterintuitively, higher risk of death among those with non-COVID sepsis. However, the epidemiology and outcomes of previously healthy people among critically ill patients with COVID-19 are unknown. We used statewide data to identify intensive care unit (ICU) admissions aged ≥18 years in Texas with COVID-19 in 2020. Multilevel logistic regression was used to estimate the association of comorbid state with short-term mortality (defined as in-hospital mortality or discharge to hospice) overall and with higher illness severity among ICU admissions. Among 52,776 ICU admissions with COVID-19, 6373 (12.1%) were previously healthy. Short-term mortality among previously healthy ICU admissions and those with comorbidities was 16.9% versus 34.6%. On adjusted analyses, the odds of short-term mortality were lower among the previously healthy compared to those with comorbidities overall (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.84 (95% CI: 0.73–0.98)), but did not differ among those with ≥3 organ dysfunctions (aOR 1.11 (95% CI: 0.84–1.46)) and the mechanically ventilated (aOR 0.87 (95% CI: 0.68–1.12)), while being higher among those with do-not-resuscitate status (aOR 1.40 (95% CI: 1.04–1.89)). Over one in eight ICU admissions with COVID-19 were previously healthy. Although being previously healthy was associated with lower risk of death compared to those with comorbidities overall, it had no prognostic advantage among the more severely ill.
The Dose-Response Relationship of Atomoxetine for the Treatment of Children With ADHD: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials
Authors: Terao Itsuki , Kodama Wakako , Tsuda Haruka
Published: December 2023

Objectives:

The present study aimed to meta-analytically estimate the dose-response relationship of atomoxetine for treating children with ADHD.

Methods:

We systematically searched double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of atomoxetine for treating ADHD in children. The search was carried out in PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINHAL, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases, covering articles from their inception until January 20, 2023. In addition, a dose-response meta-analysis was conducted.

Results:

In this dose-response meta-analysis, 12 double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trials involving 2,250 patients were included. The efficacy of atomoxetine increased up to a dosage of 1.4 mg/kg, after which it reached a plateau.

Conclusions:

The first dose-response meta-analysis of atomoxetine dosing for children with ADHD conducted here enhances the robustness of the Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency dose recommendations.
Differential Effects of Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Comorbidity in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder on Social Cognition and Empathy
Authors: Özyurt Gonca , Öztürk Yusuf , Tufan Ali Evren , Akay Aynur , İnal Neslihan
Published: December 2023

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate social cognition and empathy properties in children among Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) + Attention and Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD); ADHD and healthy controls from Türkiye.

Methods:

Twenty-two children with DMDD were compared to matched 30 children with ADHD and 60 healthy controls. We administered Affective Reactivity Index (ARI), KaSi Empathy Scale, Kiddie-SADS, and Reading Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET) to evaluate Theory of Mind skills to all study participants.

Results:

DMDD + ADHD group had lower performance in ToM skills and empathy than in two groups. The ARI scores were found to be statistically significantly higher in the DMDD group than in two groups. It was also found that ARI, empathy, and ToM scores were significantly related in children with DMDD + ADHD.

Conclusion:

These results might be important to understand the difficulties in social functioning and interpersonal relationship in children with DMDD and ADHD. Children with DMDD may attend specific therapeutic programs which include specific techniques in social cognition, emotion regulation, and irritability.
The Efficiency of Attentional Networks in Takostubo Syndrome: A Study With the Attentional Network Task for Interaction
Authors: Forte Giuseppe , Favieri Francesca , Marotta Andrea , Arcari Luca , Cacciotti Luca , Casagrande Maria
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

The role of cardiovascular risk factors in the occurrence and progression of cognitive impairment is relevant in aging studies. In this condition, attention is one of the processes less studied, but preliminary evidence suggests an association between cardiometabolic alterations and attentional decline. Attention is not a unitary process but a set of independent systems (Alerting, Orienting, Executive), which can interact in certain conditions to ensure maximum behavioral efficiency.

Methods:

We investigated attentive networks and their interactions in patients with Takostubo syndrome (TTS). In all, 20 participants with TTS and 20 individuals without cardiovascular pathologies performed an Attention-Network Task for Interaction, which assesses attentional networks and their interactions.

Results:

Patients with TTS showed an atypical orienting effect when compared to the control group. Moreover, only the control group exhibited an interaction between orienting and alerting.

Conclusion:

These findings establish the relevance of brain–heart interaction in identifying attentional impairment as a prodrome of progressively severe cognitive impairment in TTS.
Abusive Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages and Associated Factors in Brazilian University Students
Authors: Segheto Wellington , Domingues Sabrina Fontes , Campos Braian Rodrigues , Abreu Mr. Marcela Alvarenga , Lima Luciana Moreira
Published: December 2023

The university is considered an environment that favors the initiation and use of substances, especially those that are legal, such as alcohol. This consumption can be differentiated in university students, which makes it necessary to better understand this behavior. Taking into account these aspects, we analyzed the abusive consumption of alcoholic beverages in university students and its association with socioeconomic and behavioral factors. We conducted a cross-sectional study with regularly enrolled students. We assessed the abusive consumption of alcoholic beverages using the binge drinking pattern. We collected socioeconomic and behavioral data using a questionnaire. The association between the variables was verified using logistic regression. Abusive consumption of alcoholic beverages was high, with a high weekly frequency. The association with sociodemographic and behavioral factors can increase the health risk. Education campaigns within institutions with students in the classroom and with all those who can influence these students are important. As there are few studies that consider other health risk factors that have not been analyzed yet, such as those treated in our study, with the abusive consumption of alcoholic beverages, this study seeks to contribute to the knowledge of the relationships between these variables and in the elaboration of actions aimed at improving the lifestyle and health of university students.
The afterlives of state failure: echoes and aftermaths of colonialism
Authors: Lemay-Hébert Nicolas , Jerrems Ari
Published: December 2023

This article offers a new perspective on the failed states agenda, and the reconfiguration of colonial discourse buttressing it, by theorising its afterlives. The concept of afterlives has mostly been discussed as a metaphor or in passing in the IR literature. Drawing from the post- and decolonial literature, we propose to define the concept simultaneously as echoes and aftermaths of the past. This conceptualisation of afterlives aims to contribute to the study of the persistence of colonial forms beyond notions of continuity and rupture. We develop the concept of afterlives through a discussion of the failed states agenda and its iterations. We discuss four specific iterations of the agenda: the genesis of the agenda in the decolonisation period; the consolidation of the agenda during the early 1990s; the crisis of the agenda and the rise of the resilience discussion; and finally the rise of the fragile city agenda as one of the afterlives of the failed states agenda. To illustrate our argument, we discuss two specific ‘fragments’ through which we can effectively grasp the echoes and aftermaths of coloniality: the pathologisation of fragile states and cities, operated through various twin figures (civilised/barbaric; strong/dysfunctional; resilient/vulnerable) and their practical repercussions; and the visualisation, mapping and colour-coding of fragile states and cities, exemplifying the durability and contradictions of the failed states agenda.
How future orientations predict healthy outcomes: Information avoidance as a potential mechanism
Authors: Capps Karigan P , Updegraff John A
Published: December 2023

This study elucidates whether information avoidance may help explain demonstrated links between future orientation and health. In an online study, college students reported their self-reported prevention and detection health behaviors and responded to a prevention and detection health message. Path analyses indicated that information avoidance mediated the relationship with the future orientations (optimism and consideration of future consequences), such that, greater and more positive future orientations were associated with less information avoidance, and less information avoidance was associated with greater self-reported health behaviors and positive responses to health information. Correlational analyses revealed that information avoidance was particularly related to health outcomes, and to a greater extent than future orientations. Our findings join a growing literature showing the importance of information avoidance for a variety of health behaviors and suggest a potential intervention target for individuals whose characteristic ways of (not) thinking about their future might keep them unaware and unhealthy.
Characteristics of particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon pollution generated during kitchen cooking and health risk assessment
Authors: Geng Xinshuai , Bai Li
Published: December 2023

Recent studies have shown that kitchen pollution is a major concern during cooking. Cooking can release harmful pollutants such as various sizes of particulate matters (PMs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that can harm the human body directly or indirectly. This study examined the harm of pollutants from cooking in different Chinese areas, including concentrations of PMs and size distribution as well as PAHs in rural and urban locations. PMs were collected during cooking, and PAHs in the particular matter were analysed. Additionally, the study conducted pollution risk assessment and economic analysis. The results showed that PMs and PAHs released during cooking in rural kitchens were higher than in urban kitchens. Specifically, PM1.0, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were 5.05, 3.39 and 3.78 times higher than in rural kitchens. PAH concentration in rural kitchens was 4.79, 5.82 and 6.30 times higher than in urban kitchens, respectively. Skin contact poses the highest carcinogenic risk amongst the pathways. Females had higher exposure to carcinogens than males. Furthermore, smaller PMs have a higher adsorption capacity for PAHs and are more carcinogenic than larger particles. This study examined the harmful effects of different cooking fuels. It aimed to improve cooking environments and increase the use of clean energy.
Physically-based control-oriented modeling for turbocharged stoichiometric spark-ignited engine with cooled EGR and flexible VVT systems
Authors: Zhang Xu , Shaver Gregory M , Gosala Dheeraj , Lana Carlos A , Le Dat D , Langenderfer David
Published: December 2023

Accurate estimation and prediction of engine gas exchange system and in-cylinder conditions are critical for spark-ignited engine control and diagnostic algorithm development. In this paper, a physically-based, control-oriented model for a 2.8 l turbocharged, variable valve timing (VVT) and low pressure (LP) exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)-utilizing SI engine was developed. The model includes the impact of modulation to any combination of 10 actuators, including the throttle valve, compressor bypass valve, fueling rate, waste-gate, LP EGR valve, number of deactivated cylinders, intake valve open (IVO) timing, intake valve close (IVC) timing, exhaust valve open (EVO) timing and exhaust valve close (EVC) timing. The accuracy of the model in capturing engine dynamics was demonstrated by validating it against high-fidelity engine GT-Power simulation results for various drive cycles, particularly emphasizing elevated loads. In comparison to the open literature, novel contributions of the effort described in this paper includes in-cylinder gas composition modeling and turbine-out pressure estimation.
Influence of cooling loss on the energy and exergy distribution of heavy-duty diesel engines based on two-stage variable supercharging, VVT, and EGR
Authors: Wu Binyang , Shi Minshuo , Zi Zhenyuan , Jin Shouying
Published: December 2023

The application of mechanisms such as exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) coupled with variable valve timing (VVT) and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) can improve engine efficiency; however, the energy laws and loss distribution after EGR, VVT, and VGT changes are unclear, restricting the optimization of engine structures and corresponding strategies. Herein, a six-cylinder engine is studied, revealing that the cooling loss of the high-pressure (HP) EGR loop is an important factor affecting the engine energy distribution. The cooling loss accounts for 10.00%–20.00% of the total energy, with an average increase of 1.73%, surpassing other energy losses growth rates. The low-pressure (LP) EGR loop considerably reduces cooling losses. The cooling loss of the LP EGR loop is only 64.05% of the HP EGR loop at a 20% EGR rate. When the EGR rate is >10%, the resulting lower cooling losses effectively improve the engine efficiency and the indicated thermal efficiency (ITE) of the LP EGR loop is 0.20%–0.33% higher than that of the HP EGR loop; when the EGR rate is 21%, the ITE of the LP EGR loop reaches 49.52%. By studying the variation in exergy with operating parameters, it is found that while increasing the EGR rate from 15% to 20%, the proportion of available exergy increases by adjusting the VVT to −85° crank angle after top dead center (CA ATDC) or adjusting the VGT to 47.5% under the original operating scheme of the LP EGR loop (−146° CA ATDC; VGT = 42.5%). The available exergy increases from 71.22%–71.42% (−146° CA ATDC; VGT = 42.5%; original device) to 71.88%–71.58% (−146° CA ATDC; VGT = 47.5%) and 72.02%–72.21% (−85° CA ATDC; VGT = 42.5%). This study explores the energy distribution under different operating schemes, providing theoretical guidance for further improving the thermal efficiency of the entire device.
Time for universities to think outside the box: University students’ experiences of social skills development workshops
Authors: Kara Erol Hatice
Published: December 2023

In a globalizing world, social skills are becoming increasingly necessary on an individual and professional level. University students having these skills before graduation will provide them with significant advantages in both their professional and personal lives. Active learning is an approach that allows students to learn knowledge and skills by experiencing them. In this approach, students take an active role in the learning process. This research investigates the impact of social skills development workshops using an active learning approach on a group of 19 participants. Using a qualitative research approach, inductive thematic analysis was employed to examine the participants’ workshop experiences. Based on the research findings, it is evident that the social skills development workshops prepared with an active learning approach have provided many benefits to participants in their personal and professional lives. These workshops have positively influenced participants’ social skills, such as communication, collaboration, teamwork, and empathy, and have helped them gain positive perspectives on developing social skills.
The Net Promoter Score interrogated through a services marketing lens: Review and recommendations for service organizations
Authors: Lacohee Hazel , Souchon Anne , Dickenson Peter , Krug Louise , Saffre Fabrice
Published: December 2023

The Net Promoter Score (NPS) is used by many service organizations as a key customer loyalty metric and driver of growth. Yet, despite its widespread adoption and consequent benchmarking benefits, the methodological soundness and usefulness of NPS has been questioned. Compounding these problems, few guidelines on NPS enhancement strategies exist, since research on antecedents to NPS remains elusive. The combination of (a) questionable research underpinning the original proposal for NPS, and (b) an under-researched nomological net, creates an unfortunate paradox, whereby service organizations strive to raise a score that may or may not lead to organizational success, with little evidence-based knowledge on how to raise this score strategically. To address this, we utilize a guiding framework to interrogate NPS though a services marketing lens. We use this framework to underpin a critical review of NPS as it applies to service organizations, and through the review, identify and discuss ten NPS interrogations. We then propose recommendations that address each of these to enhance further knowledge development and improve ongoing practice of NPS by service organizations.
“T” Times: Revisiting the Timing of Neuronal Injury in Status Epilepticus
Authors: Husain Aatif M.
Published: December 2023

[Box: see text]
“No One Asked Me If I’m Alright”: A Mixed-Methods Study Exploring Information/Support Needs and Challenges Engaging Men Diagnosed With Male-Factor Infertility
Authors: Obst Kate L. , Oxlad Melissa , Turnbull Deborah , McPherson Nicole O.
Published: December 2023

There is limited research exploring men’s experiences of infertility, and fewer previous studies have examined what information and support men desire after being diagnosed specifically with male-factor infertility. We conducted a mixed-methods study utilizing a combined sequential, concurrent design (online survey/semi-structured interviews). Survey outcomes ( N =12) were analyzed using quantitative data analysis, while qualitative survey data ( N = 5) was analyzed by reflexive thematic analysis. Heterosexual men (>18 years), fluent in English, diagnosed solely with male-factor infertility/sub-fertility, who required assisted reproductive treatment within Australia in the past 5 years were recruited online and through fertility clinics Australia-wide. Most men reported that their information and support needs were only somewhat, slightly or not at all met. Preferred information sources on male infertility were a dedicated online resource, app, or fertility doctor/specialist, while support was preferred from fertility specialists and partners. Three themes were identified from the qualitative analysis about men’s experiences and support needs when diagnosed with male infertility (a) Ultimate threat to masculinity; (b) Holistic care, and (c) the power of words. The information-rich data collected provided valuable insights into men’s experiences of male-factor infertility and important considerations to improve recruitment for future research. A diagnosis of male-factor infertility has the potential to be deeply impactful and difficult to navigate for men. Adequate and holistic information, recognition of emotional impacts, proactive offers of support and sensitive language are needed to improve men’s experiences when undergoing assisted reproductive technology.
Attitudes and Parameters Influencing the Smoking Epidemic in Greece: What is Important?
Authors: Vlastarakos Petros V. , Gkouvali Angeliki , Tavoulari Evangelia-Filothei , Katsochi Despoina
Published: December 2023

Introduction/Aims: Smoking is the biggest cause of preventable death and ill health in the developed world. The present study investigated the association between socio-demographic, and attitudinal factors with smoking initiation, and cessation in Greece, and gained an insight pertaining the main source of information about smoking. The research hypothesis that smoking is continued, because of ensuing dependence, and stopped, following doctors’ warnings of possible nearing onset for serious illness development was also tested. Materials/Methods: Internet-based survey in people belonging to the AKOS anti-cancer institute registry. Chi-squared, t-test and ANOVA investigated the relations, or compared the differences between categorical variables. Multiple binary logistic-regression models investigated the relation of selected result variables with potential predictor factors. Results/Conclusion: 1618 adults participated, yielding a response rate of 83.3%. Smokers, ex-, and non-smokers differed in age, and sector of employment. There was a gender effect in several factors pertaining smoking initiation/duration/cessation efforts. Discontinuation efforts were more likely in systematic smokers (OR = 1.473) and were positively associated with smoking duration (OR = 1.025), emotional distress as the primary reason for smoking initiation (OR = 2.165), anti-smoking campaign through television (OR = 1.637), and keynote lectures (OR = 2.307). Younger age of smoking initiation (OR = .939), and a reprimanding attitude towards smokers (OR = .472) negatively influenced cessation efforts.
Preliminary psychometric properties of an inhibition task in young children with Down syndrome
Authors: Walsh Madison M , Van Deusen Kaylyn , Prince Mark A , Esbensen Anna J , Thurman Angela John , Pinks Miranda E , Patel Lina R , Feigles Robyn Tempero , Abbeduto Leonard , Daunhauer Lisa A , Fidler Deborah J
Published: December 2023

Background: Executive function (EF) skills are important treatment targets for people with Down syndrome (DS); however, few EF measures have been evaluated for use with young children in this population. Methods: The present study evaluated preliminary psychometric properties of a measure of the EF component of inhibition. Participants were 73 children with DS between 2.5 and 8.67 years old who completed an adapted ability to delay task using a desirable toy. Results: Across two separate trials, latencies to touch the toys were significantly correlated. Latencies increased overall with chronological and mental age, with caveats for the youngest and oldest participants. Conclusion: Findings suggest that an adapted prohibition task is an appropriate method of measuring inhibition for children with DS between 4 and 7 years old, though many children in this chronological age range are at early stages of acquiring this skill set.
Long-term results and explant analysis of the ReMotion total wrist arthroplasty
Authors: Stringer Howard J. , Cash Thomas , Kennedy James A. , Kandemir Göksu , Newton Ashley W. , Joyce Thomas J. , Brown Daniel J.
Published: December 2023

The ReMotion wrist replacement has good short- to medium-term survival with an acceptable complication profile as we previously reported in a cohort of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We now report the long-term results of the same cohort and details of explant analysis of revisions undertaken for aseptic loosening. A total of 16 wrists were reviewed. Seven prostheses remain in situ with no obvious signs of wear or radiological loosening at a mean follow-up of 15.5 years. Three wrists had been revised: one for infection and two for aseptic loosening. Five patients (six wrists) died 2–9 years after operation from unrelated causes. Explant analysis demonstrated relatively minor wear compared with the published results of the Universal-2 prosthesis. We hypothesize that this may be explained by differences in polyethylene sterilization and prosthetic design. The ReMotion wrist replacement has favourable long-term results in patients with rheumatoid arthritis with a 16-year survival rate of 78%–86%.

Level of evidence: IV
Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis: do not forget other disorders
Authors: Druel Thibault , Budai Alexandre , Gazarian Aram
Published: December 2023

A retrospective study of patients with symptomatic trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis was conducted to assess the prevalence of other disorders of the hand. Another disorder of the hand was associated in 49% of cases. A systematic clinical examination of the whole hand must be performed preoperatively.
How are the impact attenuation properties of men’s and women’s helmets affected after one season in professional ice hockey?
Authors: Swarén Mikael , Fahlstedt Madelen
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate if the impact attenuation properties of ice hockey helmets change after being used for one season in a professional ice hockey league. Eighteen helmets from a male team and 10 helmets from a female team were compared to 13 new helmets. Every helmet was impact tested three times for two impact locations, side and front. The median peak linear acceleration for all front impacts were significantly higher ( p < 0.05) for the helmets from the female team compared to the helmets from the male team. Compared to the new helmets, both men’s and women’s helmets had significantly lower median peak angular acceleration ( p < 0.01) and peak angular velocity ( p< 0.001). For side impacts, the women’s helmets had significantly higher peak linear acceleration compared to the men’s and new helmets ( p < 0.001). Both men’s and women’s helmets had significantly higher peak angular acceleration compared to the new helmets ( p < 0.001), and women’s helmets also had significantly higher peak angular acceleration compared to men’s helmets. Compared to men’s and new helmets, the results show that women’s helmets have worse impact attenuation properties after one season. However, all used helmets satisfied the passing threshold for test standards and the differences in calculated injury risk were small. This information may assist in establishing recommendations for the expected lifetime usage for ice hockey helmets and support manufacturers to develop safer ice hockey helmets.
Research on retail Buyers’ emotional quotient with focus on transactions on the National Stock Exchange
Authors: Chandu Venkateswarlu , Maddala Sravani , Sai Kondeti Gokul Durga , Teja Gadde Charan , Prakash Boyina Jaya , Rao Bongari Nageswara , Osei Bernard
Published: December 2023

Investment decision is one of the most essential factors in today’s stock market. People make investment decisions based on different fundamental and technical tools. There are various factors which affect the investor towards investment, but one of the important factors which affect the investor is their emotional intelligence. So, the present study focuses on the how emotional intelligence influences the investment decision. This study is based on the emotional intelligence of investors so that the market can know the beat of the speculator and continue as required. The data was collected from 930 investors who make investment in NSE in Andhra Pradesh. The data was analyzed with the help of correlation analysis. The study reveals that there is a positive relation among the various dimensions of emotional intelligence and investment decisions. This study will help the investment advisors to advise the investors to invest according to their emotional intelligence capability. The usual actuality for stock market investments is subject to not only in making investment decisions in high volatile market circumstances and informational haziness but also by the need to be meticulous in earning something on a consistent basis. The substantial reason is the emotions are part of the evolved mental processes; human beings have for managing uncertainty and competition. Words expressing emotions and feelings such as Dissatisfied, Depressed, Sad, Happy, Cheerful, Satisfied, Fear, Worry, Disappointment, and Trust similarly succeed in the interview scheduling sessions with respondents. Different emotions can be sensed through their connected action tendencies. Fear is, for example, associated with the inclination for flight and love with the trend for an approach. The market moves against the investor. Having never stared at unrealized losses, tell themselves that all their ideas will eventually work. This research examined the relationship between risk-taking behaviour and high levels of extraversion
Heroes Rise in Tough Times: The Role of Ethical Idealism, Empathy, and Firm Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kang Yeonjung (Alice) , Legendre Tiffany S. , Lee Seonjeong (Ally) , Baker Melissa A.
Published: December 2023

During crises, hospitality firms practice a range of coping strategies such as laying-off or furloughing employees to cope with financial pressure (denying strategy) to cutting CEOs’ salaries to maintain jobs for employees (rebuilding strategy). While firms are still managing the effects of the pandemic, it is unclear how consumers judge how firms respond to crises. This study applies signaling theory to investigate how consumers’ ethical idealism influences customers emotional and behavioral responses of firm crisis responses. Study 1 conducts a 2 (crisis response: denying vs. rebuilding) × 2 ethical idealism (low vs. high) quasi between-subjects design experiment to examine the two-way interaction effects on purchase intention, brand support, and positive word of mouth. Study 2 examines the effect of empathy as a key mediator, using a moderated mediation model. Study 1 results show that although negative intentions were not observed toward denying strategies, consumers’ purchase intention, brand support, and positive word-of-mouth were elevated when rebuilding strategies are employed among consumers with high ethical idealism. Study 2 results find that consumers with high ethical idealism are more empathetic to the companies’ rebuilding responses, thus greater behavioral intentions were witnessed.
Subjective Social Status as a Predictor of Physical and Mental Health Among Early Midlife Adults in the United States: Appraising the Role of Gender
Authors: Graham Carlyn , Ciciurkaite Gabriele
Published: December 2023

Literature indicates that subjective social status (SSS) is a robust predictor of health outcomes net of objective social status (OSS). However, research that has considered gender in the relationship between SSS and health is limited. Using 2016–2018 data from the Wave V biomarker sample of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, we investigate the relationship between SSS and two health outcomes—allostatic load and depressive symptoms—and the moderating role of gender in these relationships among a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults (ages 33–44 years) ( n = 5,269). We find that SSS is inversely associated with both allostatic load and depressive symptoms, net of OSS. Moreover, we find that gender significantly moderates the SSS-allostatic load relationship but not the SSS-depressive symptoms relationship. Specifically, SSS has a greater impact on allostatic load among women than men. Future research should explore the underlying psychosocial mechanisms that contribute to these gender differences.
Impact of Workplace Mistreatment on Employees’ Health and Well-Being in Chinese Firms: A Systematic Review
Authors: Atamba Cynthia , Mosonik John Kipngetich , Stuckler David , Sungu Lincoln Jisuvei , Santoso Cornelia Melinda Adi , Mohamed Halima Habuba
Published: December 2023

Mistreatment in the workplace is a recurring and persistent threat to employee health and organizational productivity. Research has shown that there are five times as many cases of workplace mistreatment reported in China as in the United States. Therefore, we established the mistreatment-employee health relationship in Chinese companies. The search was conducted in the Web of Science, EBSCOhost, PsycInfo, and Google Scholar databases. The search terms used were “China,” “mistreatment,” “abuse,” “neglect,” “exploitation,” and “violence.” The search was not limited by the year of publication. The search found 1,527 articles, 65 of which met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and were used for data analysis and quality assessment. Our results show that the overall prevalence of abuse varies significantly but ranges from 18.5% to 94.6%. Psychological aggression by supervisors and customers was common in the healthcare industry. The experience of abuse was positively correlated with adverse consequences such as emotional fatigue, addiction, and suicidal ideation. By providing evidence of the effects of mistreatment, this study aims to help researchers and practitioners align their policies with global labor standards.
Relationship Between Servant Leadership, Leader-Member-Exchange, Organization Learning and Innovative Work Behavior: Evidence From High-Tech Firms
Authors: Khattak Shoukat Iqbal , Khan Muhammad Anwar , Ali Muhammad Iftikhar , Khan Hafiz Ghufran Ali , Saeed Imran
Published: December 2023

With the growing development of the knowledge economy in recent years, the value of knowledge workers has increased substantially. On the basis of the broaden-and-build theory (B&B theory) and conservation of resources (CoR) theory the aim of this research work is to evaluate the mediating effect of leader-member exchange (LMX) and organizational learning (OL) between servant leadership and knowledge innovative work behavior (IWB). Current study included the participation of 496 knowledge employees from China’s high-tech companies. The responses of the survey were analyzed using MPLS software while utilizing the structural equation modeling method. The findings validated the link between servant leadership (SL) and IWB. In the relationship between SL and IWB, LMX and OL mediated the relationship as parallel mediator. This study discovered a correlation between SL and OL and LMX. In addition, the findings signify that in the Chinese high-tech companies’ SL style augments IWB through the support of OL and LMX. The results of the study are useful for harnessing the leader and member for achieving organizational objectives through enhancing the innovative work behavior in the knowledge workers of Chinese high-tech companies.
Innovation in Respirator Design, Research, & Protection: A model of predictive fit for occupational safety and health.
Authors: Griffin Linsey , Yu Minji , Sokolowski Susan , Arnold Susan , Durfee William K.
Published: December 2023

Improving the fit of a half-mask respirator can be achieved by developing a design, fit, and sizing strategy to fit the faces of the general population or a specific group such as race, age group, or occupation. The purpose of this study was to define respirator fit based on the body product relationship and to develop a new set of facial landmarks and measurements for half-mask respirator design. 3D scan data and quantitative fit factor scores from 47 healthcare workers and 9 researchers in healthcare-related fields were utilized to investigate the relationship of new anthropometry measurements to respirator fit. A mask fit association model was validated through logistic regression. The respirator fit prediction model incorporating highly correlated face measurements opens the possibility of developing a system for judging respirator fit success and failure based on face dimensions; it can be integrated with automated measuring technologies and machine learning.
Biomechanical Investigation of Methods of Grasping a Trombone: A Pilot Study
Authors: Orme Zachary , Sommerich Carolyn M. , Lavender Steven A.
Published: December 2023

Trombonists, like other musicians, are at risk for developing use-related musculoskeletal symptoms. This study investigated an ergonomic aid for playing the trombone, the Neotech Trombone GripTM, which assists a trombonist’s left hand in supporting the instrument. The objective of the study was to investigate effects of this device on the left upper extremity while playing the trombone in comparison to the standard, unaided method of grasping it. Seven trombone players used the grip for two weeks prior to providing objective and subjective data in a laboratory environment. They played a scale and a piece of their choice under four conditions: sitting or standing with or without the device on their trombone. While playing, muscle activity in the trapezius, anterior deltoid, middle deltoid, extrinsic finger flexor, and extrinsic finger extensor muscle groups on the left side of the body were collected. Perceptions on the device using a survey were also assessed. Results indicated a consistent decrease in muscle activity in the finger flexor group when using the device. Smaller, less consistent effects were seen in activity in the trapezius (decrease), finger extensor group (increase), and anterior deltoid (increase) muscles, while using the device. Effects were more pronounced in players with smaller hands (among the group of participants). Most players subjectively found the device beneficial and all would recommend it to other players.
Impact of Mentoring Relationships on Perceived Quality Of Life among Engineering Graduate Students
Authors: McCallum Mariah , Godwin Ian , Ma Jiahui , Barlow Hailey , Kottawa Gamage Dimantha , McCrory Bernadette
Published: December 2023

Graduate students’ experiences bring on unprecedented challenges, influenced by physical, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Through a productive and authentic mentor-mentee relationship, it was hypothesized graduate students would be more satisfied with their graduate experience. An instrument was developed using the 26-item World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire consisting of four health domains (physical, psychological, social relationships, environmental) and additional questions on psychosocial help and the graduate student’s satisfaction with their advisors and overall graduate school experience. Overall, graduate students who were satisfied with their mentoring experience had a higher quality of life (QoL). Graduate students’ QoL was lower in social relationships (p=0.009) and psychological domains (p=0.000), similar to medical school students. Second- and third-year graduate students had lower QoL than those in the first or fourth+ year. Graduate students were satisfied with their overall mentoring experience, and better mentoring experience tended to have better QoL.
Technomorphic Tendencies: Scale Revision & Understanding the Individual Differences at Play
Authors: Lum Heather C. , Lee Jessica , Liu Yue , Kampf Taylor
Published: December 2023

Although traditionally researchers have focused on making robotics more user-friendly from a human perspective, a new theory has begun to take shape in which humans take on the perspective of a robotic entity. This paper examined the concept of technomorphism and where the individual differences may lie in the tendency to technomorphize. The Technomorphic Tendencies Scale was revised and re-validated. Furthermore, the concept of technomorphism was investigated in a more representative population across different regions, educational backgrounds, and ages. The implications and next steps for the concept of technomorphism are also discussed.
Phone call while riding among delivery workers: The Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Wu Genhao , Wang Ange , Huang Chunxi , He Dengbo
Published: December 2023

With the rapid growth of online food delivery services, the population of delivery workers has reached 13 million in China. Most of them use electric bicycles (e-bikes) as their primary transportation tool. On the other hand, mobile phone call (MPC), as the primary and most effective communication method for delivery workers, induces distracted riding and threatens traffic safety. Although MPC has been extensively investigated in driving-related research, MPC among delivery workers has not yet been investigated. In this study, a questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior has been designed to investigate social-psychological factors leading to MPC among delivery workers. 150 delivery workers participated in this study. The structural equation model method was adopted to analyze the data. The results show that injunctive norm is positively associated with MPC behaviors; but descriptive norm is negatively associated with MPC behaviors, potentially because of the selective perception phenomenon.
Operative Treatment of Tarlov Cysts - Outcomes and Predictors of Improvement after Surgery: A Series of 97 Consecutive Patients and a Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Abdi Delshad , Huttunen Jukka , Leinonen Ville , Savolainen Sakari , Danner Nils
Published: December 2023

Study Design

A register-based retrospective series and a systematic review of literature

Objectives

Tarlov cysts are meningeal cysts typically found in the sacral region. They have a dualistic nature ranging from an incidental finding to a symptomatic pathology. There are no established treatment protocols and predictors of operative outcome. Therefore, we aimed to study the outcome of surgical treatment for Tarlov cysts and to characterize patient-, and treatment-related factors predicting outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review of previous literature was performed and a retrospective cohort of all patients operated on for Tarlov cysts at BLINDED between 1995 and 2020 was collected. Patient records were evaluated along with radiological images.

Results

Ninety-seven consecutive patients were identified with follow-up data available for 96. Improvement of symptoms after surgery was observed in 76.0% of patients (excellent or good patient-reported outcome) and the complication rate was 17.5%. Sacral or lower back pain as a preoperative symptom was associated with improvement after surgery ( P = .007), whereas previous lower back surgery was more common in patients who did not benefit from surgery ( P = .034). No independent predictors of outcome were identified in a regression analysis.

Conclusions

This is the second-largest study on the treatment of Tarlov cysts ever published. Operative treatment in a selected patient population will likely produce improvement in the symptoms when balanced with the complication rate and profile of surgery. Preoperative lower back or sacral pain is a potential indicator for improvement after surgery.
Implicit Rhetoric of Genocide in Khushwant Singh’s Train to Pakistan (1956)
Authors: Dutta Anindita , Gupta Biswanath
Published: December 2023

The article explores the complex nexus of the legal and the literary by re-envisioning the idea of genocide as a legal, social as well as political concept, as the violence engendered by it continues to cast its shadow over humankind. The relevance of Khushwant Singh’s novel Train to Pakistan lies in its vivid portrayal of how mass passions of religious antagonism result in gripping accounts of bloodshed and forced expulsion of ordinary people in South Asia. The paper also seeks to contest the narrow understanding of genocide where the victim and perpetrator communities are perceived as exclusive categories. Through this exemplary novel, the paper attempts to foreground how fictional narratives mirror the basic conceptualizations of genocide as enshrined in the United Nations Genocide Convention (1948). The paper delves into the blurred distinction between victim and perpetrator communities in the context of partition in South Asia. The article engages in a close textual analysis to shed light on the synthesis of the literary and legal context of genocide in Khushwant Singh’s Train to Pakistan. The paper establishes how reading the novel from the legal point of view underscores the contentious nature of genocide that prevailed during the time of Partition.
Association of Obesity and Plantar Fasciitis in Patients With Plantar Heel Spurs
Authors: Lee Wonyong , Metgud Neha , Moore Michelle
Published: December 2023

Background:

Although its pathophysiology is not clear, the presence of a plantar heel spur has been considered a cause of heel pain in plantar fasciitis. This study investigated demographic and radiographic differences between a plantar fasciitis patient group with plantar heel spur and the age/sex-matched control group with plantar heel spur.

Methods:

Patients who visited the office under the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and had a plantar heel spur were compared to an age/sex-matched control group who visited the office with other foot and ankle issues except for heel pain. All patients in both the control and case groups had radiographically proven presence of a plantar heel spur. Demographics and radiographic findings between the 2 groups were compared, and a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors that are associated with plantar fasciitis symptoms.

Results:

A total of 100 patients were included in the plantar fasciitis study group (PF+S) and age/sex-matched control group (C+S). BMI was higher in the study group than in the control group: 35.2 vs 30.9 ( P = .002). The size of the plantar heel spur was larger in the study group than in the control group: 5.9 vs 4.6 mm ( P = .017). A multivariable regression analysis identified that obesity (BMI > 30, odds ratio [OR] = 2.675) and the size of plantar heel spur >5.3 mm (OR = 2.642) were associated with PF+S.

Conclusion:

We found an association of both obesity and increased average plantar heel spur length on lateral radiographs in patients with painful plantar fasciitis compared to patients without plantar fasciitis but with plantar heel spurs. The presence of a plantar heel spur alone did not account for the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative case study.
Supporting Positive Post-School Outcomes for Students With Disabilities in Rural Locations
Authors: Scheef Andrew R. , Bruno Lauren , Whittenburg Holly N.
Published: December 2023

Individuals with disabilities are less likely than their peers without disabilities to be employed or enrolled in postsecondary education. Even with federal legislation efforts designed to provide targeted supports to this population, the discrepancy persists. Students with disabilities who attend schools in rural settings may experience additional barriers to employment and postsecondary enrollment not faced by those in urban and suburban locales. This article reviews post-school outcomes and barriers that youth with disabilities in rural areas may encounter. These may include concerns related to transportation, limited opportunities, and varied perceptions on the value of higher education. In addition, special educators in rural schools may have limited training opportunities and a wide range of position responsibilities that require expertise in many areas. Then, to help address these discrepancies, strategies to support students and improve services are presented in four broad areas, including (a) augmenting teacher training and practice, (b) partnering with vocational rehabilitation, (c) improving public policy, and (d) leveraging the strengths of rural communities.