bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-Cultural Brain Activity Differences Between True and Sham Acupuncture for Xerostomia During Head and Neck Cancer Radiotherapy
Authors: Prinsloo Sarah , Rosenthal David I. , Garcia Mary Kay , Meng Zhiqiang , Cohen Lorenzo
Published: May 2022

Background:

A prior phase III, multicenter (United States and China), clinical trial found true acupuncture (TA) resulted in lower xerostomia scores 12 months after radiotherapy than that of a standard care control group. This small pilot study examined brain function changes comparing TA to sham acupuncture (SA) in US and Fudan patients undergoing head and neck radiotherapy.

Methods:

To determine cerebral activity during TA versus SA acupuncture, patients underwent electroencephalogram evaluation (EEG) immediately prior, during and after both conditions. Acupuncture occurred during weeks 3 to 5 of radiotherapy, with patients receiving either TA or SA, followed 2 to 3 days later by the other treatment in a counterbalanced manner.

Results:

In the TA minus SA condition (N = 14 Fudan; N = 13 US), most changes were in the delta (0.5-3.5 Hz) and alpha (8-12 Hz) bandwidths. Delta was present in the frontal gyrus and parahippocampal gyrus. Alpha was present in the anterior and posterior cingulate, lingual gyrus, amygdala, precuneus, medial frontal gyrus, fusiform gyrus, and superior frontal gyrus. Maximal cortical differences in the Fudan cohort between TA and SA were in areas previously shown to be associated with (TA). In the US cohort, maximal differences between TA and SA were associated with areas which are usually decreased in TA conditions.

Conclusions:

There were distinct differences in brain function between those receiving TA and SA and there were clear differences between cultures, helping to explain the lack of placebo effect in the Fudan participants and strong placebo effect in the US patients.
Comparison of Academic and Social Outcomes of Students with Extensive Support Needs Across Placements
Authors: Mansouri Mary Curran , Kurth Jennifer A. , Lockman Turner Elissa , Zimmerman Kathleen N. , Frick Teran A.
Published: May 2022

Extending Freeman and Alkin’s review of the literature, this systematic literature review examines the social and academic outcomes of students with extensive support needs (ESN) taught in general education settings compared with those taught in segregated settings. Six comparison design studies were analyzed for contextual factors of educational environments, participants’ characteristics, and outcomes related to social or academic attainment. Results indicate access to the general education classroom with same-age peers is associated with greater academic and social outcomes for students with ESN. There remains a need for improved reporting of participant support needs and demographic information (e.g., SES, nonbinary genders, and race and ethnicity), and a need for improved reporting of potential mediating factors (e.g., contextual factors and personnel) across settings. Detailed implications for future research are provided, particularly as they relate to providing high-quality instruction for students with ESN.
Light-Activated Vascular Anastomosis
Authors: Scott Benjamin B. , Randolph Mark A. , Guastaldi Fernando P. S. , Wu Ruby C. , Redmond Robert W.
Published: May 2022

Background. There have been few advances in technique since vascular anastomosis was performed with silk suture on a curved needle in 1902. This technique results in disruption of the endothelium with exposed intraluminal suture, both of which may lead to thrombocyte aggregation, intimal hyperplasia, and vascular stenosis. A variety of alternative techniques have been explored, with limited success. Photochemical tissue bonding (PTB) is a light-activated methodology of rapidly cross-linking tissue interfaces at the molecular level. Herein, we describe a new technique for anastomosis of venous interposition graft in an ovine model of femoral artery bypass utilizing PTB. Methods. Polypay specific pathogen free sheep (n = 5; 40-45 kg) underwent femoral artery bypass utilizing saphenous vein. The femoral artery was transected and reversed saphenous vein was implanted as an interposition graft. The proximal anastomosis was created as a vein-over-artery cuff utilizing PTB, and the distal anastomosis was created with standard interrupted 8-0 polypropylene suture. Four weeks post-index operation, femoral angiogram was performed to evaluate patency, tortuosity, and luminal diameter. All bypass grafts were harvested and longitudinal and transverse histological sections from the proximal anastomosis were analyzed. Results. The PTB anastomoses (n = 5) were immediately watertight and patent. All animals survived the 28-day study duration. Angiography revealed patent grafts with no aneurysm or stenosis (n = 5). Histologic examination revealed integration of the venous endothelium with the arterial adventitia. Conclusion. Photochemical tissue bonding creates an immediate strong, watertight vascular anastomosis that can withstand physiologic arterial pressure and remains patent at 28 days without the need for intraluminal suture.
Last Man Standing: Battle Royale Games Through the Lens of Self-Determination Theory
Authors: Fernandez de Henestrosa Martha , Billieux Joël , Melzer André
Published: May 2022

The highly popular video game genre of Battle Royale (BR) games is characterized by survival and exploration elements that feature a last-man-standing gameplay, thus, motivating players to be the final contestant in the game. Drawing on the Self-Determination Theory the present study investigated the role of personal values, psychological needs and well-being in a self-selected sample of 303 BR gamers recruited online. The association between players’ value orientation and well-being was found contingent on players’ BR gaming experience and their need for relatedness. Whereas frequent interaction with this game genre was associated with the basic psychological need satisfaction of autonomy and relatedness, player preference for BR games was related to their need of competence and autonomy. The present study supports the importance of exploring player motives and provides initial insights into the association between BR gaming and basic psychological needs.
Oxidized jute as a valuable adsorbent for Congo Red from an aqueous solution
Authors: Ivanovska Aleksandra , Branković Ivana , Lađarević Jelena , Pavun Leposava , Kostic Mirjana
Published: May 2022

The raw jute fabric was oxidized with 0.2% or 0.4% NaIO4 for 60 or 120 min to obtain valuable adsorbents for the textile dye Congo Red (CR). Batch adsorption experiments were carried out as a function of solution pH, contact time, initial CR concentration, and temperature. At an initial CR concentration of 25 mg/L, the raw jute possessed the lowest adsorption due to the lowest availability and content of carboxyl and aldehyde groups capable of binding dye. The fabrics oxidized for 60 min with 0.2% NaIO4 and 120 min with 0.4% NaIO4 reached equilibrium adsorption after 240 and 330 min, respectively. The adsorption of CR onto studied fabrics followed the pseudo-second-order model indicating that the chemisorption process is primarily represented. Within the studied range of CR concentrations (25–100 mg/L), its adsorption onto fabric oxidized for 120 min with 0.4% NaIO4 obeys the Langmuir isotherm model (i.e. adsorption occurs at specific, energetically equivalent adsorbent sites with monolayer coverage of CR over a homogeneous surface), wherein the calculated maximal adsorption capacity is 12.863 mg/g. A thermodynamic study revealed the spontaneous and endothermic character of CR adsorption onto jute fabric. Based on the recorded ATR-FTIR spectra before and after CR adsorption, it is suggested that repulsion, hydrogen bonds, and π-π stacking interactions are involved in the binding of CR onto jute fabrics.
Found in Translation: Reflections and Lessons for Qualitative Research Collaborations Across Language and Culture
Authors: Rodriguez Espinosa Patricia , Pichayayothin Nipat B. , Suavansri Panita , French Joanna J. , Areekit Poonsub , Nilchantuk Chureerat , Jones Torin S. , Mam Emily , Moore Jessie B. , Heaney Catherine A.
Published: May 2022

Qualitative scholars are increasingly engaged in global research where members of the research team are from different countries and cultures and have different primary languages. However, in-depth descriptions of how to work as a transnational team successfully and rigorously are scarce. Using a collaboration between Stanford University in the US and Chulalongkorn University in Thailand as a case example, we present the nuances and challenges experienced in this research collaboration, as well as the strategies employed to optimize the validity and reliability of the study findings. While we started our data analysis following a more typical qualitative analysis path, shortcomings of this approach brought us to explore an alternative, involving data review and coding by transnational coding sub-teams. This approach was better able to illuminate cultural nuances, address coding discrepancies, and bring forward discussions to enhance interpretation and validity of findings. We describe our collaborative and iterative approach, and highlight methodological implications around team composition, language nuances and translation challenges, our coding process involving transnational coding sub-teams, and important considerations for managing team dynamics (e.g., power and hierarchy) and the partnership process and engagement over time. Moreover, we highlight the benefits of integrating insiders and outsiders throughout the research process, from data collection to coding and interpretation. Our process can serve as a model for similar transnational teams seeking ways to fully benefit from cross-cultural research collaborations.
A comprehensive error analysis of the planetary roller screw mechanism
Authors: Ma Shangjun , Wu Guanyu , Zhang Jianxin , Deng Wenzhu , Xie Lizhong , Zhou Yong
Published: May 2022

To reveal the error generation, transmission, and accumulation process, a comprehensive error analysis model is proposed in this paper; furthermore, the model is used to determine the influence on the transmission error and the error sensitivity of a planetary roller screw mechanism (PRSM). After error source analysis, the differential error vector and matrix are used to express the small errors because the magnitude of all errors in the PRSM is relatively small. To comprehensively consider the error coupling relationship between thread structure errors and gear structure errors, error flow models of the PRSM components are established. On this foundation, transmission error characterization model and error sensitivity evaluation model are also established. Finally, error values and transmission error are measured, and the sensitivity of each error to the transmission error is calculated. The results show that the transmission error is periodic and fluctuate with screw rotation. The component eccentric errors, pitch errors, and thread clearance have obvious influence on the transmission error, so they should be limited emphatically.
Multilevel analysis of factors associated with utilization of institutional delivery in Ethiopia
Authors: Hassen Sali Suleman , Jemal Sebwedin Surur , Bambo Meseret mesfin , Lelisho Mesfin Esayas , Tareke Seid Ali , Merera Amanuel Mengistu , Kontuab Admasu Markos
Published: May 2022

Background:

The maternal mortality rate in poor nations remains unacceptably high. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with institutional delivery usage.

Methods:

The data came from the Ethiopian mini demographic and health survey, which was conducted in 2019. This study comprised 3978 women of reproductive age who had given birth within the previous 5 years. To uncover significantly linked parameters associated with institutional delivery, we used a multilevel logistic regression model. Statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05, and we assessed the strength of association using adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results:

More than half of the women (53.67%) among 3978 women with last birth had their babies delivered in a health facility. In the multilevel logistic regression analysis, women in age group 45–49 (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI: 1.280, 4.591), primary educational level (AOR = 2.21, 95% CI: 1.864, 2.625, secondary and above education level (AOR = 6.37, 95% CI: 4.600, 8.837), being Muslim (AOR = 2.57, 95% CI: 1.245, 2.166), women who visited ANC service four up to seven times (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI: 2.175, 3.473), women visited ANC service eight times and above (AOR = 3.295% CI: 1.685, 6.050), women who reside in middle wealth index (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.273, 1.950), and rich wealth index (AOR = 3.43, 95% CI: 2.782, 4.225) were more likely to give birth at health institution compared to their counterparts. Furthermore, women being in rural area (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI:- 0.283, 0.474) and protestant women (AOR = 0.1.57, 95% CI: 0.479, 0.852) were less likely to deliver at health institution.

Conclusions:

Ethiopia still has a low level of institutionalized delivery. Institutional delivery in Ethiopia should be improved through context-specific and personalized programs, such as educating women and enhancing access to ANC services.
A study of the different relations between disruptive events and human factors and their effects on maintenance performance
Authors: Cavalcante Cristiano AV , da Costa Lucas QM , Ferreira Neto Waldomiro A , Alberti Alexandre R
Published: May 2022

Understanding the factors that affect the quality of maintenance tasks is critical to ensure an effective maintenance program. In this paper, we present a comprehensive framework to evaluate de impact of human and environmental/managerial factors on inspection quality, specifically regarding the probability of defect induction by this kind of activity that usually has solely informative purposes. We discuss the influence of Disruptive External Events (DEEs) on the probability of human error. A DEE can disrupt appropriate conditions for performing inspection tasks, making maintenance staff more subject to errors that can result in defect induction. We present a delay-time based mathematical model for an inspection-maintenance policy applied to a non-repairable single-component technical system, incorporating to the model a probability of defect induction at inspections that may vary according to parameters related to DEEs and human reliability. We investigate how likely a defect induction can be depending on the capacity of the team to recover proper conditions to more reliable inspections. An important finding concerning the induction of defects calls attention to the need to invest in more appropriate conditions to carry out interventions on the system. The results obtained highlight the importance of a deeper investigation integrating technical aspects of the systems with relevant subjects from areas related to human behavior and social sciences.
Hundred years of transperineal prostate biopsy
Authors: Schmeusser Benjamin , Levin Brandon , Lama Daniel , Sidana Abhinav
Published: May 2022

The earliest recorded efforts to biopsy prostate, in the early 20th century, were made through transperineal (TP) approach, with open perineal prostate biopsy (PBx) being considered the gold standard for prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis in that era. Later, to minimize morbidity and increase diagnostic accuracy, several technical modifications and transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) assistance were incorporated. However, in the 1980s, the transrectal (TR) approach became the predominant PBx method following the introduction of TRUS-TR PBx with sextant sampling, providing a convenient and efficacious method for prostate sampling. With modernization of PCa diagnosis, a recent resurgence of the TP PBx has been observed, driven primarily by TR drawbacks of infectious complications and sampling limitations. TP PBx is rapidly emerging as the new PBx standard, being officially recommended as the initial approach for biopsy in Europe and is increasingly being conducted and studied in the United States. The modern era of TP PBx is based on the improvements in local anesthesia techniques, TP access systems, and robotic assistance. These modifications and advancements have improved the ease of use, patient comfort, and diagnostic outcomes with TP PBx. Herein, we present a history of the evolution of TP PBx spanning over 100 years and explore the basis of the technique that merits future utilization.
First principles study of photogalvanic effect of monolayer SnS
Authors: Yu Deyang , Hu YangYang , Ku Ruiqi , Zhang Guiling , Li Weiqi , Jiang Yongyuan
Published: May 2022

The photogalvanic effect of monolayer SnS was investigated at a small bias voltage under perpendicular irradiation using density functional theory combined with the non-equilibrium Green’s function method. The photocurrent was generated over the entire visible light range, and it was saturated at a small bias voltage for photon energies of 2.4, 2.6, 3.2 and 3.4 eV. The photocurrent shows cosine dependence of the polarization angle, which is attributed to the second-order response to the photoelectric field. These results provide a deeper understanding of the photogalvanic properties of the 2D SnS nanosheet based devices.
Accuracy Evaluation of a Novel Reusable Patch Pump Prototype
Authors: Mende Jochen , Baumstark Annette , Waldenmaier Delia , Amirouche Amin , Barraud Antoine , Fridez Pierre , Haug Cornelia , Freckmann Guido
Published: May 2022

A prototype of an insulin patch pump that operates with a double pump mechanism was tested. Accuracy of bolus delivery of 0.2 U and 1.0 U, and a basal rate of 1.0 U/h were evaluated with a microgravimetric method. In addition, occlusion detection time at basal rates of 0.1 U/h and 1.0 U/h was assessed. Mean deviation from target was lower than 2% for both bolus sizes. Regarding basal rate accuracy, mean deviation over 72 hours was lower than 1%. Occlusion detection occurred in less than 30 minutes with both basal rates. Our study results suggest that the tested pump prototype provides delivery accuracy and occlusion detection that is similar or even better compared to all commercially available pumps tested with a similar experimental approach.
Acute Effects of Beetroot Juice Supplements on Lower-Body Strength in Female Athletes: Double-Blind Crossover Randomized Trial
Authors: Jurado-Castro Jose Manuel , Campos-Perez Julian , Ranchal-Sanchez Antonio , Durán-López Natalia , Domínguez Raúl
Published: May 2022

Background:

Beetroot juice (BRJ) is used as an ergogenic aid, but no previous study has analyzed the effect this supplement has on the production of explosive force and muscular endurance in physically active women.

Hypothesis:

BRJ improves explosive force and muscular endurance in the lower limbs of physically active women.

Study Design:

Randomized double-blind crossover study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Fourteen physically active women performed a countermovement jump (CMJ) test, a back squat test for assessing velocity and power at 50% and 75% of one-repetition maximum (1RM), and the number of repetitions on a muscular endurance test consisting of 3 sets at 75% of 1RM in a resistance training protocol comprising 3 exercises (back squat, leg press, and leg extension). The participants performed the test in 2 sessions, 150 minutes after ingesting 70 mL of either BRJ (400 mg of nitrate) or a placebo (PLA).

Results:

A greater maximum height was achieved in the CMJ after consuming BRJ compared with a PLA ( P = 0.04; effect size (ES) = 0.34). After a BRJ supplement at 50% 1RM, a higher mean velocity [+6.7%; P = 0.03; (ES) = 0.39 (–0.40 to 1.17)], peak velocity (+6%; P = 0.04; ES = 0.39 [−0.40 to 1.17]), mean power (+7.3%; P = 0.02; ES = 0.30 [−0.48 to 1.08]) and peak power (+6%; P = 0.04; ES = 0.20 [−0.59 to 0.98]) were attained in the back squat test. In the muscular endurance test, BRJ increased performance compared with the PLA ( P < 0.00; ηp2 = 0.651).

Conclusion:

BRJ supplements exert an ergogenic effect on the ability to produce explosive force and muscular endurance in the lower limbs in physically active women.

Clinical Relevance:

If physically active women took a BRJ supplement 120 minutes before resistance training their performance could be enhanced.
Are Altered Kinematics in Runners With Patellofemoral Pain Sex Specific?
Authors: Luz Bruna Calazans , dos Santos Ana Flávia , Serrão Fábio Viadanna
Published: May 2022

Background:

Altered kinematics have been frequently observed in runners with patellofemoral pain (PFP), and few studies have aimed to understand the influence of sex on kinematics of this population. The aim of this study was to investigate whether altered hip and knee kinematics in runners with PFP are sex specific.

Hypothesis:

Kinematics will be different between female and male runners with and without PFP.

Study Design:

Case-control study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 2.

Methods:

Eighty-four runners were divided into 4 groups: 42 runners with PFP (20 women, 22 men) and 42 asymptomatic runners (21 women, 21 men). Three-dimensional gait analyses of the hip in the frontal and transverse plane and the knee in the frontal plane were analyzed at self-selected running speed on a treadmill. One-way analysis of covariance was used to test for differences in kinematic variables between groups.

Results:

Women with PFP ran with a significantly greater peak hip adduction compared with men with PFP (mean difference [MD] = 4.45°; P = 0.00; effect size [ES] = 0.58) and male control subjects (MD = 4.2°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.54) and greater hip adduction range of motion (ROM) than men with PFP (MD = 3.44°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.49). No significant differences were identified between women with and without PFP. Female control subjects ran with greater peak hip adduction than men with PFP (MD = 5.46°; P < 0.01; ES = 0.58) and male control subjects (MD = 5.21°; P < 0.01; ES = 0.55); greater hip adduction ROM than men with PFP (MD = 4.02°; P = 0.00; ES = 0.52) and male control subjects (MD = 2.91°; P = 0.04; ES = 0.36); and greater peak knee abduction than men with PFP (MD = 3.35°; P = 0.02; ES = 0.44) and male control subjects (MD = 3.69°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.4).

Conclusion:

Women have greater hip adduction than men regardless of the presence of PFP. There were no kinematics difference between women with and without PFP. Comparisons of hip internal rotation between all groups were nonsignificant.

Clinical Relevance:

Altered hip and knee kinematics does not appear to be sex specific in runners with PFP.
Decellularization for the retention of tissue niches
Authors: Moffat Deana , Ye Kaiming , Jin Sha
Published: May 2022

Decellularization of natural tissues to produce extracellular matrix is a promising method for three-dimensional scaffolding and for understanding microenvironment of the tissue of interest. Due to the lack of a universal standard protocol for tissue decellularization, recent investigations seek to develop novel methods for whole or partial organ decellularization capable of supporting cell differentiation and implantation towards appropriate tissue regeneration. This review provides a comprehensive and updated perspective on the most recent advances in decellularization strategies for a variety of organs and tissues, highlighting techniques of chemical, physical, biological, enzymatic, or combinative-based methods to remove cellular contents from tissues. In addition, the review presents modernized approaches for improving standard decellularization protocols for numerous organ types.
Calcitonin: current concepts and differential diagnosis
Authors: Kiriakopoulos Andreas , Giannakis Periklis , Menenakos Evangelos
Published: May 2022

Calcitonin (CT) is most effectively produced by the parafollicular cells of the thyroid gland. It acts through the calcitonin receptor (CTR), a seven-transmembrane class II G-protein-coupled receptor linked to multiple signal transduction pathways with its main secretagogues being calcium and gastrin. It is clinically used mostly in the diagnosis and follow-up of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Hypercalcitoninemia can be attributed to primary (e.g. CT-secreting tumor) or secondary (e.g. due to hypercalcemia) overproduction, underexcretion (e.g. renal insufficiency), drug reaction (e.g. β-blockers), or false-positive results. In clinical practice, elevated basal calcitonin (bCT) is indicative, but not pathognomonic, of MTC. Current literature leans toward an age as well as gender-specific cutoff approach. bCT >100 pg/ml has up to 100% positive prognostic value (PPV) for MTC, whereas bCT between 8 and 100 pg/ml for adult males and 6 and 80 pg/ml for adult females should be possibly further investigated with stimulation calcitonin (sCT) tests. Calcium is showing similar efficacy with pentagastrin (Pg) sCT; however, the real value of these provocative tests has been disputed given the availability of new, highly sensitive CT immunoassays. Anyhow, evidence concludes that sCT <2 times bCT may not be suggestive of MTC, in which case, thyroid in addition to whole body workup based on clinical evaluation is further warranted. Moreover, measurement of basal and stimulated procalcitonin has been proposed as an emerging concept in this clinical scenario. Measuring bCT levels in patients with thyroid nodules as a screening tool for MTC remains another controversial topic. It has been well established, though, that bCT levels raise the sensitivity of FNAB (Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy) and correlate with disease progression both pre- and postoperatively in this situation. There have been numerous reports about extrathyroidal neoplasms that express CT. Pancreatic, laryngeal, and lung neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are most frequently associated with hypercalcitoninemia, but CT production has also been described in various other neoplasms such as duodenal, esophageal, cutaneous, and paranasal NENs as well as prostate, colon, breast, and lung non-NENs. This review outlines the current biosynthetic and physiology concepts about CT and presents up-to-date information regarding the differential diagnosis of its elevation in various clinical situations.
Mothers’ health care-seeking behavior and associated factors for common childhood illnesses in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Merkeb Alamneh Yoseph , Getachew Melese , Atnaf Aytenew , Abebaw Abtie
Published: May 2022

Objective:

This review is aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of mothers’ health care-seeking behavior and associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods:

International databases were systematically searched for studies that were published between 2008 and 2019. Data were extracted in Microsoft Excel 2019 and then exported to STATA version 14 for further analysis. Publication bias was determined by funnel plot, Begg’s test, and Egger’s test. Heterogeneity between the studies was checked by I2 statistic. The pooled proportion was estimated using random-effects meta-analysis model.

Results:

This review and meta-analysis included 14 studies from a total of 581 papers that were screened. The pooled proportion of mothers’ health care-seeking behavior in Ethiopia was 50.24% (95% CI: 37.13%, 63.35%). Health facility distance (OR = 2.07), awareness about common childhood illnesses (OR = 2.06), educational levels (OR = 1.82), and income (OR = 2.07) were significantly associated variables.

Conclusion:

The overall health care-seeking behavior of mothers for common childhood illnesses in Ethiopia is low. Accordingly, educating mothers/caregivers about the importance of health care-seeking behavior and increasing the proximity of health facilities were recommended to improve health care-seeking behavior.
Intimate partner violence in the postpartum period and its associated factors among women attending a postnatal clinic in Central Ethiopia
Authors: Dirirsa Dejene Edosa , Desta Adugna Alemu , Geleta Tinsae Abeya , Gemmechu Mathewos Mekonnen , Melese Girma Tufa , Abebe Shimelis Tadesse
Published: May 2022

Objective:

Intimate partner violence may affect women at any stage of their lives, including during pregnancy and after childbirth, and can have major health consequences for both the mother and the child. Therefore, the study was aimed to assess Intimate partner violence against postpartum women and its associated factors among women attending the postpartum clinic in Central Ethiopia, 2021.

Methods:

The hospital based cross-sectional study design was implemented among postpartum women attending Sendafa Beke Hospital from September to October 2021. Systematic random sampling procedure was used to select 414 eligible postpartum women. Data were collected using a structured interviewer administered questionnaire. The data were entered into Epi Info and exported to SPSS version 24 for analysis. All variables with p-value < 0.05 under adjusted odds ratio were taken as statistical significant associated factors with postpartum intimate partner violence.

Results:

A total of 414 postpartum women participated in the study with a 97% of response rate. The prevalence of postpartum intimate partner violence was 31.4%. The study identified that monthly income 1000–5000 birr (adjusted odds ratio = 3.4; 95% confidence interval = 1.08, 10.5), partners’ alcohol consumption (adjusted odds ratio = 0.17, 95% confidence interval = 0.06, 0.45), decision-maker of household affairs (adjusted odds ratio = 4.8; 95% confidence interval = 1.5, 15.1), and infant’s sex (adjusted odds ratio = 0.03; 95% confidence interval = 0.02, 0.063) were significantly associated with postpartum intimate partner violence.

Conclusion:

According to the findings of this study, nearly one-third of postpartum women were violated by their intimate partner after childbirth. Postpartum intimate partner violence was found to be associated with monthly income, partners’ alcohol intake, decision-maker of household affairs, and infant’s sex. To reduce the magnitude of the problem, different efforts should require from health professional, community, and government. The policy makers, planners and other concerned bodies establish appropriate strategy to prevent and control violence against women.
Unique SLC12A2-ROS1 fusion is associated with marked response to crizotinib in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ribeiro Maurício Fernando Silva Almeida , Gadotti Luiza Lara , Sacardo Karina Perez , Lopes Carlos Diego Holanda , Saddi Rodrigo , Alessi João Victor Machado , de Macedo Mariana Petaccia , do Nascimento Ellen Caroline Toledo , Testagrossa Leonardo de Abreu , Katz Artur
Published: May 2022

Chromosomal rearrangements involving the c-ros oncogene 1 ( ROS1) gene define a subset of non-small cell lung cancers highly sensitive to small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors. However, little is known about the impact of different fusion partners on tyrosine kinase inhibitor efficacy. We herein describe a case of a 26-year-old never-smoker patient from southern Africa with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma driven by SLC12A2- ROS1 fusion, who had a pronounced and durable response to crizotinib. The present case underscores the importance of pursuing actionable alterations in patients with similar clinical and epidemiological characteristics. In addition, provides the second report of crizotinib activity against lung malignancies harboring the unique SLC12A2-ROS1 fusion and highlights the importance of a deeper understanding of molecular alterations in underrepresented subgroups of patients to tailor the decision-making in daily practice.
Safety and efficacy of acellular human amniotic fluid and membrane in the treatment of non-healing wounds in a patient with chronic venous insufficiency
Authors: Ditmars Frederick S , Lind Richard A , Broderick T Christopher , Fagg W Samuel
Published: May 2022

Chronic, non-healing venous ulcers of the lower extremity are often limb-threatening conditions. Their management is characterized by a prolonged and frequently frustrating clinical course that represents an economic burden to both the patient and healthcare system. During the last two decades, thermal ablation of underlying incompetent venous systems has been extensively utilized to treat chronic venous insufficiency. Despite successful correction of venous hypertension, a substantial subgroup of patients remain affected by non-healing venous ulcers, thus posing a significant clinical challenge. In this case report, we detail quantitative and qualitative wound treatment course in a patient refractory to standard interventions, by treatment with a combination of cell-free amniotic fluid and dehydrated amniotic membrane following successful thermal ablation of refluxing veins.
Renal cell carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus initially misdiagnosed as bland thrombus due to hypercoagulable state
Authors: Tabbara Marina M. , Farag Ahmed , Ciancio Gaetano
Published: May 2022

Renal cell carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus can be misdiagnosed as an inferior vena cava thrombosis if not evaluated carefully with imaging. We describe a case of renal cell carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus that was initially misdiagnosed as an inferior vena cava thrombosis due to a possible hypercoagulable state. After 7 months of anticoagulation therapy with no improvement, a right radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy was performed without cardiopulmonary bypass, and a diagnosis of papillary renal cell carcinoma with a level-IIId tumor thrombus was confirmed with no presence of a bland thrombus. We demonstrate the complexity of identifying and treating renal cell carcinoma with venous tumor thrombus and the importance of differentiating between a malignant thrombus and a bland thrombus.
Group practice in Urology: A cross-sectional analysis over 8 years (2014–2021)
Authors: Cwalina Thomas , Callegari Michael , Piyevsky Brandon , Alfahmy Anood , Drozd Andrew , Jesse Erin , Prunty Megan , Abou-Ghayda Ramy , Zell Michael , Jankowski Jason
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

Physician and medical practices have undergone significant consolidation over the last decade. This has been in response to federal and financial changes to health care delivery within the United States. As per the 2021 AUA annual census, the percentage of employed practicing urologists (not in solo or partnership practice) increased from 51.3% to 64.4% between 2015 and 2020 (AUA Census 2021). Our objective was to further examine the changing trends among provider groups within Urology between 2014 and 2021.

Methods:

Publicly available information from within Medicare Physician Compare, published by the US Centres for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) was used. Practice size data were pulled from 1 month each year between 2014 and 2021 and filtered by physicians listing ‘Urology’ as their primary specialty. Practices were divided into categories based on size. Statistical calculations were conducted using R (version 4.0.2).

Results:

Solo or partnership practice declined by 15.9% compared to larger practice groups which increased by an average of 5.1%. Providers within the Northeast US illustrated the largest migration to larger practices with 101%, 162% and 232% growth among practices with 25–99, 100–499 and over 500 providers, respectively.

Conclusion:

Urologists have been moving increasingly towards larger group practice since 2014. An emphasis on value-based healthcare, integration of electronic records and an increase in administrative workload are only some of the influencing factors likely responsible for this trend. Further studies are needed to examine the effect practice consolidation has on patient outcomes and cost of care.
The ‘Emergency Stone Clinic’ – improving patient care: A collaborative, hospital-based quality improvement project
Authors: Balai Edward , Folkard Samuel , Tien Tony , Atalar Kerem , Berry Brendan , Runa Shelina , Bastianpillai Christopher , Graham Stuart , Green James , Pal Pallavi
Published: May 2022

Introduction & Aims:

There is a current drive nationally to improve the management of acute ureteric colic. Management targets set by the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) include a 4-week target for the time from diagnosis-to-definitive management, or to clinic review in patients managed expectantly. The motivation to review our acute stone service stemmed from concerns that we did not have the capacity to consistently offer primary definitive treatment or timely clinic review to patients. We aimed to restructure our service using Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles to achieve the BAUS targets.

Method:

All patients diagnosed with a ureteric stone between March and September 2017 were reviewed as a baseline. Our strategy for improvement involved implementing an emergency stone clinic (ESC) model. This was developed through collaboration between the key stakeholders and centred on a weekly consultant-led specialist clinic designed to review and make early management decisions for all patients referred with a ureteric stone meeting pre-agreed criteria. Post-intervention data were collected between June 2018 and January 2019. To assess whether we were able to meet these targets during the COVID-19 pandemic, data were also collected between January 2020 and October 2020.

Results:

Time from CT diagnosis to clinic review reduced from 77 to 9 days. Patients seen within 4 weeks of diagnosis improved from 2.9% to 90.5%. Of those requiring a procedure, the percentage receiving a primary intervention increased to 72.1%. Emergency stent insertion was reduced from 69% to 27.9%. The rate of patient re-presentation to A&E reduced from 3.0 to 1.6 episodes/month. The percentage receiving their definitive procedure within 4 weeks improved from 26.2% to 51.2% in the first post-intervention cycle and remained at 54.5% during the pandemic period.

Conclusions:

Implementing the ESC model led to substantial improvements in patient care and significant progress towards achieving the BAUS management targets while reducing the burden on our Emergency Department.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
Waitlisted and Transplant Patient Perspectives on Expanding Access to Deceased-Donor Kidney Transplant: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Rosaasen Canute , Rosaasen Nicola , Mainra Rahul , Trachtenberg Aaron , Ho Julie , Parsons Christina , Delaney Sean , Mansell Holly
Published: May 2022

Background:

A concerning number of kidneys (eg, expanded donor criteria, extended criteria, or marginal kidneys) are discarded yearly while patients experience significant morbidity and mortality on the transplant waitlist. Novel solutions are needed to solve the shortage of kidneys available for transplant. Patient perceptions regarding the use of these less than ideal kidneys remain unexplored.

Objective:

To explore the perspectives of patients who have previously received a less than ideal kidney in the past and patients awaiting transplant who could potentially benefit from one.

Design:

Qualitative description study.

Setting:

2 provinces in Canada participated (Saskatchewan and Manitoba).

Patients:

Patients with end-stage kidney disease who were awaiting kidney transplant and were either (a) aged 65 years and older, or (b) 55 years and older with other medical conditions (eg, diabetes).

Methods:

Criterion sampling was used to identify participants. Semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were conducted virtually, which explored perceived quality of life, perceptions of less than ideal kidneys, risk tolerance for accepting one, and educational needs to make such a choice. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results:

15 interviews were conducted with usable data (n = 10 pretransplant; n = 5 posttransplant). Participants were a mean of 65.5 ± 8.8 years old. Four interrelated themes became prominent including (1) patient awareness and understanding of their situation or context, (2) a desire for information, (3) a desire for freedom from dialysis, and (4) trust. Subthemes of transparency, clarity, standardization, and autonomy were deemed important for participant education. The majority of pretransplant participants (n = 8/10) indicated that between 3 and 5 years off of dialysis would make the risk of accepting a less than ideal kidney feel worthwhile.

Limitation:

The study setting was limited to 2 Canadian provinces, which limits the generalizability. Furthermore, the participants were homogenous in demographics such as ethnicity.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that patients are comfortable to accept a less than ideal kidney for transplant in situations where their autonomy is respected, they are provided clear, standardized, and transparent information, and when they trust their physician. These results will be used to inform the development of a new national registry for expanding access to deceased-donor kidney transplant.

Trial Registration:

Not registered.
Development and Early Experience of a Primary Care Learning Collaborative in a Large Health Care System
Authors: Erickson Rodney , Abu Dabrh Abd Moain , Chavez Augustine , Cristiani Valeria , DeJesus Ramona , Laabs Susan , Presutti Richard , Rosas Steven , Westfall Erin , Witt Terrance , Thacher Thomas
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Primary care clinicians are presented with hundreds of new clinical recommendations and guidelines. To consider practice change clinicians must identify relevant information and develop a contextual framework. Too much attention to information irrelevant to one’s practice results in wasted resources. Too little results in care gaps. A small group of primary care clinicians in a large health system sought to address the problem of vetting new information and providing peer reviewed context. This was done by engaging colleagues across the system though a primary care learning collaborative.

Methods:

The collaborative was a grass roots initiative between community and academic-based clinicians. They invited all the system’s primary care clinicians to participate. They selected new recommendations or guidelines and used surveys as the principal communication instrument. Surveys shared practice experience and also invited members to give narrative feedback regarding their acceptance of variation in care relate to the topic. A description of the collaborative along with its development, processes, and evolution are discussed. Process changes to address needs during the COVID-19 pandemic including expanded information sharing was necessary.

Results:

Collaborative membership reached across 5 states and included family medicine, internal medicine, and pediatrics. Members found involvement with the collaborative useful. Less variation in care was thought important for public health crises: the COVID pandemic and opioid epidemic. Greater practice variation was thought acceptable for adherence to multispecialty guidelines, such as diabetes, lipid management, and adult ADHD care. Process changes during the pandemic resulted in more communications between members to avoid practice gaps.

Conclusion:

An internet-based learning collaborative in a health system had good engagement from its members. Using novel methods, it was able to provide members with feedback related to the importance of new practice recommendations as perceived by their peers. Greater standardization was thought necessary when adopting measures to address public health crisis, and less necessary when addressing multispecialty guidelines. By employing a learning collaborative, this group was able to keep members interested and engaged. During the first year of the COVID pandemic the collaborative also served as a vehicle to share timely information.
Burnout, Professional Self-Efficacy, and Life Satisfaction as Predictors of Job Performance in Health Care Workers: The Mediating Role of Work Engagement
Authors: Bernales-Turpo Deisy , Quispe-Velasquez Roy , Flores-Ticona Diony , Saintila Jacksaint , Ruiz Mamani Percy G. , Huancahuire-Vega Salomón , Morales-García Mardel , Morales-García Wilter C.
Published: May 2022

Background:

It is essential to identify the factors that influence the work performance of health professionals working in health care facilities, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, since these factors have an impact on the quality of medical care provided to the population.

Objective:

This study aimed to analyze the mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between job burnout, professional self-efficacy, life satisfaction, and job performance in Peruvian health care workers.

Methods:

Cross-sectional explanatory study, with the voluntary participation of 508 health professionals (physicians and nurses) of both sexes (70.7% women, 29.3% men), and from different health facilities in the city of Lima. All participants were administered the Single Burnout Item questionnaire, the Professional Self-Efficacy Scale (AU-10), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWL), the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ), and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used for data analysis.

Results:

In the SEM analysis, it was found that for the mediation model the incremental goodness-of-fit indices were significant (χ2 = 2292.313, gl = 659, P < .001, χ2/gl = 2.788). Career self-efficacy (β = .557, P < .001) and life satisfaction (β = .289, P < .001) were positive predictors of work engagement. While burnout was a negative predictor (β = .878, P < .001). The consistent mediation of work engagement of professional self-efficacy, life satisfaction, and burnout had a positive predictor effect on job performance (β = .878, P < .001).

Conclusion:

Research provides evidence that professional self-efficacy, life satisfaction, and burnout could influence job performance through work engagement.
Impact of Drivers of Change (Digitalization, Demonetization, and Consolidation of Banks) With Mediating Role of Nature of Training and Job Enrichment on the Banking Performance
Authors: Bahl Kayenaat , Kiran Ravi , Sharma Anupam
Published: May 2022

This paper examines the impact of the drivers of change, that is, digitalization, demonetization, and consolidation of banks as factors affecting training and development. Banking institutions are the real contributors of the GDP in today’s world. The study is based on the data collected from senior bank officers, middle and lower level officers from India. The balanced scorecard is used to determine the performance of the banks with the help of four perspectives, that is, financial, customer, innovative, and growth perspective. Job enrichment helps in adding value to an employee through various techniques and programs. Partial Least Square-Structured Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied for examining the relation among the drivers of change and job enrichment with Banking Sector Performance. It also examines the mediating role of training between drivers of change and banking sector performance. The results suggest that training along with selected drivers and job enrichment influenced bank performance and value of adjusted R2 is .668. The current research suggests that the role of digitalization, demonetization, and consolidation of banks on banking performance improved with mediation effect of training. This research also highlights that in types of training, special training has higher loading, which implies the need to focus on training and specifically of special training to enhance banking performance.