bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond prometheanism: Modern technologies as strategies for redistributing time and space
Authors: Hornborg Alf
Published: February 2024

Technologies developed since the late eighteenth century differ from earlier forms of technology by being as dependent on world market prices of labour, land and other biophysical resources as on human inventiveness. Yet, whether their outlook is mainstream or heterodox, modern people tend to view technology simply as ingenuity applied to nature, while oblivious of the extent to which it is contingent on the asymmetric exchange of resources in global society. Although inextricably entwined in the real world, the phenomena studied by economics and engineering are kept conceptually separate. This is achieved by disregarding the materiality of world trade. Modern technologies are not just instruments for solving problems but social strategies for redistributing time and space in world society, displacing work and environmental loads to sectors of the world system where wages are lower and environmental legislation less rigorous. Technology should not remain extraneous to social theory. A sociometabolic reconceptualisation of technology is particularly essential for critics of global capitalism.
Prioritization decision-making of care in nursing homes: A qualitative study
Authors: Hackman Pauliina , Häggman-Laitila Arja , Hult Marja
Published: February 2024

Background

Prioritization decision-making arises when nurses encounter intricate situations that demand ethically challenging judgments about care. This phenomenon has rarely been studied in nursing homes. Prioritization decision-making may lead to instances where individuals in social and healthcare may not receive all services they need. Making prioritization decisions and awareness of their consequences can increase nurses’ workload.

Aim

To describe prioritization decision-making regarding unfinished nursing care in nursing homes.

Research design

A qualitative descriptive study conducted through individual theme interviews. Participants were recruited through social media. The data was analyzed using inductive content analysis.

Participants and research context

Nurses ( n = 23) working in nursing homes for the elderly people in Finland. Data were collected between June 2022 and February 2023.

Ethical considerations

Finnish legislation does not mandate an ethical review or research permits, as the participants took part as private individuals. [ask authors to make reference here to informed consent process and anonymity]

Findings

Nurses stated that the need for prioritization decision-making arises from challenges associated with nurses’ engagement with person-centered care, the culture of the work community, the burden due to workload and challenges associated with the leadership. Prioritization decision-making was based on the interests of residents, striving for an efficient workflow and nurse’s personal interests. Nurses did not receive support for decision-making regarding unfinished care, and protocols for prioritization had not been established in their work communities. Prioritization decision-making and unfinished care were concealed and left unspoken.

Conclusion

Nursing leaders should address this hidden phenomenon, making it visible through discussions with nurses and by involving them in the development of protocols. The findings can be utilized for developing new approaches to support nurses and reduce their workload and for enhancing the quality and person-centeredness of nursing care in nursing homes.
Feedback Trading and Its Implications for Return Autocorrelations in India During COVID
Authors: Mukherjee Paramita , Chatterjee Rajashri
Published: February 2024

In emerging capital markets, feedback trading is a widely pursued strategy by investors. Such behavior may potentially lead to volatility and cause negative autocorrelation in market returns, especially during high volatility. In India, such a linkage has not been explored so far, though institutional investors have pursued feedback trading for the last two decades. Also, COVID-19 has led to higher volatility in the markets and might have altered investors’ behavior. This article focuses on finding whether feedback trading is still pursued by institutional investors in Indian equity markets post-COVID and also whether the presence of feedback traders exerts any influence on autocorrelations in market returns. Asymmetric GARCH models are employed to explore the linkage. Findings suggest that while foreign institutional investors continue to pursue positive feedback trading, as in the pre-pandemic period, domestic investors pursue negative feedback trading. However, in the post-pandemic period, as other types of trading became weak or perished, positive feedback traders have started dominating, leading to negative autocorrelation in market returns during heightened volatility. Evidence of negative autocorrelation was not present in the pre-pandemic period. Further, negative news leads to more volatility in returns.

JEL Codes: F21, F32, G11
Palliative and End-of-Life Care Interventions with Minoritized Populations in the US with Serious Illness: A Scoping Review
Authors: Varilek Brandon M. , Doyon Katherine , Vacek Shelie , Isaacson Mary J.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Over the past 20 years, palliative care in the United States has grown significantly. Yet, access to and/or engagement with palliative care for minoritized persons with serious illness remains limited. In addition, the focus of palliative and end-of-life care research has not historically focused on equity-informed intervention development that collaborates directly with minoritized populations. Equity-informed interventions within palliative and end-of-life care research have the potential to champion collaborations with persons with serious illness and their families to mitigate health inequities. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine and describe the literature on the approaches used in the design and development of palliative and end-of-life care interventions with minoritized populations with serious illness.

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews was followed for tracking and reporting purposes. Included articles were described quantitatively and analyzed qualitatively with content analysis.

Results

Thirty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria: eight used quantitative methods, eight used qualitative methods, ten reported a community-based participatory research method, nine used mixed-methods, and two had research designs that could not be determined. The qualitative analysis revealed three themes: (1) stakeholder involvement and feedback, (2) intervention focus, and (3) target intervention population (population vs healthcare clinician).

Conclusions

Using an equity-informed research approach is vital to improve palliative and end-of-life care interventions for minoritized communities with serious illness. There is also a need for more robust publishing guidelines related to community-based participatory research methods to ensure publication consistency among research teams that employ this complex research method.
Simple Morning and Complex Night: Time of Day and Complex Sensory Experiences
Authors: Luo Anqi (Angie) , Mattila Anna S. , Bolton Lisa E.
Published: February 2024

Consumers’ multisensory preferences bring new ideas to service and experience design—yet do consumers always react favorably to sensory complexity? This research examines variation by time of day in how consumers respond to complex sensory experiences (e.g., purchase behavior, choice, and liking). Specifically, we theorize that arousal levels increase over the course of the day, which increases the perceived fit of complex sensory experiences, leading to more favorable reactions—a pattern that is more prominent among evening than morning chronotypes. A set of five studies provides support for this theorizing and provides important implications for service providers regarding how to vary their sensory offerings and promotions over the course of the day.
Real-world data on siponimod-related lymphopenia among people with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gilmartin Christopher GS , Hoyle Natasha , Garjani Afagh , Dixon Terri , Jos Helena , Paling David , Brownlee Wallace , Tench Christopher , Evangelou Nikos
Published: February 2024

Background:

Siponimod-related lymphopenia in real-world clinical practice has implications for dose adjustment and infection risk.

Objective:

To characterise siponimod-related lymphopenia in people with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (pwSPMS).

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort of 188 pwSPMS. The development of grade 4 lymphopenia was interrogated with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and binary logistic regression.

Results:

Lymphopenia develops soon after commencing siponimod. In total, 15 (8.5%) of 176 experienced grade 4 lymphopenia at 1 month after initiation. There were no clinically significant associations between patient characteristics and development of grade 4 lymphopenia.

Conclusion:

Grade 4 lymphopenia can occur soon after siponimod initiation and cannot be predicted.
The impact of COVID-19 changes and disruptions on generalized anxiety disorder among young adults living with HIV (YLHIV) in Uganda
Authors: Girma Abel Zemedkun , Brathwaite Rachel , Karamagi Yvonne , Nakabuye Fatumah , Nakasujja Noeline , Byansi William , Nabunya Proscovia , Sensoy Bahar Ozge , Ssewamala Fred M
Published: February 2024

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, we investigated associations between specific COVID-19-related changes and its impact on generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) levels among vulnerable young adults living with HIV (YALHIV) in a low-resource setting in Southern Uganda. This research utilized data from 500 YALHIV aged 19 to 25 from the Suubi+Adherence-R2 COVID-19 Supplement study. Disruptions were assessed using an 8-item modified Coronavirus Impact Scale, while anxiety was measured with the GAD-7 questionnaire. Hierarchical logistic regression analysis and multivariate linear regression were employed, guided by the Social Determinants of Health framework. Key findings highlighted changes in routines, family income, stress from the pandemic, changes in family stress and discord, and reduced access to mental health services heightened levels of probable GAD for YALHIV during the pandemic. Additionally, female young adults showed greater levels than males. These results underscore the urgency to develop tailored support mechanisms for YALHIV, especially during challenging and unprecedented times.
Enhancing corrosion resistance of the nugget in a 2519-T87 aluminum alloy friction stir welded joint via tungsten inert gas arc
Authors: Liu Shengdan , Yi Tie , Fang Chen , Jiang Gengduo , Dai Xuanxuan
Published: February 2024

The corrosion resistance of the nugget zone (NZ) in two 2519-T87 aluminum alloy joints obtained by conventional friction stir welding (FSW) and tungsten inert gas arc-assisted FSW (TIG-FSW) was evaluated by immersion corrosion tests and electrochemical measurements. The results show that TIG arc significantly enhances the corrosion resistance of the nugget, the maximum corrosion depth is reduced by about 59.6%, and the polarization resistance is increased by about 14.5%. The mechanism was discussed based on microstructural examination. TIG-FSW decreases the area fraction of coarse intermetallic compounds (IMCs) with an equivalent diameter larger than 2.0 μm and increases the number of submicron IMCs, avoids the accumulation of IMCs, leads to low local electrochemical activity, and consequently enhances the corrosion resistance of the NZ.
Residual axial strength of reinforced concrete columns after exposure to standard and non-standard fires
Authors: Cao Vui Van , Ngo Sang Tan
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the residual axial strength of reinforced concrete (RC) columns after exposure to standard and non-standard fires. Experiments and theoretical analyses were performed on 30 RC columns, which were divided into five groups: one group (the control group) was not exposed to fire; two groups were exposed to 30-min and 45-min ISO 834 standard fires; and the other two groups were exposed to 60-min and 75-min non-standard fires. These postfire specimens were axially loaded until they failed. The experimental results showed that 30-min and 45-min ISO 834 fires decreased the residual strength by 11.6% and 17.4%, respectively. 60-min and 75-min non-ISO 834 fires caused similar reductions in the residual axial strength of postfire RC columns, although the durations of these non-standard fires were considerably longer. This experimental result confirmed that the maximum temperature, rather than the fire durations, of non-standard fires governed the reduction in the residual axial strength. In theoretical analysis, the axial strength of postfire RC columns can be calculated using the proposed model, which combines the confinement model, the 500°C isotherm method, and the distribution model of temperature. The proposed model can appropriately predict the residual axial strength of postfire columns when the fire closely follows the ISO 834 fire. The inaccuracy of the model significantly increases when the fires are non-ISO 834 fires. Two concepts, namely equivalent area and maximum temperature, were introduced to address the issue. The concept of maximum temperature successfully addressed the above-mentioned issue and exhibited superiority over the concept of equivalent area. This result reaffirmed the superior governing characteristic of the maximum temperature compared with the duration of non-standard fires, as evidenced in the experimental results. The proposed models would be useful for engineers in practice when evaluating the residual axial strength of both standard and non-standard postfire RC columns.
A Balancing Act: Pathways to Thriving for Adult Hispanic Students
Authors: Billar Brittany , Sue Brown Kerry , Azul Amy , Schreiner Laurie A. , Menson Kristin
Published: February 2024

This mixed methods study used structural equation modeling (SEM) to determine the fit of a model of thriving in 264 adult Hispanic undergraduates, then performed a content analysis of student comments. Thriving was defined as intellectual, interpersonal, and psychological engagement in the student experience. The student comments confirmed the SEM findings but also revealed areas around family and work support that remain unexplored in higher education assessment tools.
Enjoying the Uncertainty. How Dark Souls Performs Incompleteness Through Narrative, Level Design and Gameplay
Authors: Andriano Angelo Maria
Published: February 2024

The application of the Theory of Information to the works of art can show why incompleteness and ambiguity offer a more engaging experience to readers and users. But when ambiguity becomes a deliberate strategy of the work, it becomes difficult to understand how to interpret it: in this article I argue that the correct way to interpret a work that makes incompleteness the rule of its poetics is to analyze how that strategy is conveyed throughout its basic grammar, without trying to solve the puzzles and contradictions that incompleteness and ambiguity inevitably produce. This is a relevant issue in the videogame Dark Souls as the basic elements of its grammar, level design, gameplay mechanics and narrative, offer the player the experience of incompleteness in different ways. In this article, I explain how the strategy of incompleteness works in Dark Souls and propose a framework for a Zen-wise interpretation of the game mechanics.
Results of the Double Switch Operation in Patients Who Previously Underwent Left Ventricular Retraining
Authors: Mac Felmly L. , Mainwaring Richard D. , Ho Deborah Y. , Arunamata Alisa , Algaze Claudia , Hanley Frank L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (CC-TGA) is a complex form of congenital heart disease that has numerous subtypes. While most patients with CC-TGA have a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) and pulmonary stenosis, there are some patients who have either no VSD or a highly restrictive VSD. These patients will require left ventricular (LV) retraining prior to double switch. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with the double switch procedure in patients who had previously undergone LV retraining.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of a single institution experience with the double switch procedure in patients who had undergone LV retraining (2002-present).

Results

Forty-five patients underwent double switch following LV retraining. Of these, 39 had an arterial switch with hemi-Mustard/bidirectional Glenn and six had a Senning. The median cross-clamp time was 135 min (range 71-272) and median bypass time was 202 min (range 140-430 min). Median hospital length of stay was eight days (range 4-108). There were no in-hospital deaths. Median duration of follow-up was 30 months (range 0-175). One patient subsequently underwent heart transplantation and died 65 months following double switch. At follow-up, 41 of the 44 survivors (93%) have normal or low normal LV function and 40 of the 44 survivors (91%) have no or trace mitral regurgitation.

Conclusions

The data demonstrate early and mid-term survival of 100% and 97%. Ninety-three percent had preserved LV function. These results suggest that patients with CC-TGA who undergo LV retraining and double switch can have excellent clinical outcomes.
Disparities in Forensic Science Adoption for Crime Investigation in Kenya: The Role of Police Demographics
Authors: Miano Dennis , Anangwe K. , Kiemo K.
Published: February 2024

Widespread disparities in the adoption of forensic science (FS) in criminal investigations remain a global issue. Although multiple factors have been identified to cause disparities in the adoption of forensic science, little consideration has been given to the socio-demographic characteristics of police officers in explaining these disparities. This study analyzes police demographic characteristics using a cross-sectional descriptive survey of 146 Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) officers in Kenya in relation to the adoption of FS in crime investigation. A binary logistic regression was performed to assess the predictive value of each demographic characteristic, including gender, level of education, police experience, police rank, favorite subject (science or non-science) in high school, and service formation, on the adoption of FS. We found that the composite police demographic variable was not statistically significant ( p = .877) in predicting the adoption of FS in crime investigations. Officers with higher levels of education (bachelor’s degree) and mid-level service experience showed significantly ( p < .05) higher odds of adoption of FS. All other demographic variables (gender, service ranks, and service formation) were not statistically significant in predicting the adoption of FS. In conclusion, the disparities in the adoption of FS can be traced back to police demographic characteristics, particularly different levels of education, and experience among officers. We recommend police departments rethink the combined effect of police demographic characteristics in a bid to reduce disparities in the adoption of FS in crime investigations.
Role of Experiential Learning Program on Business Writing Skills of Management Students
Authors: Srinivasan Shruti , Thangaraj Ravikumar , Mathew Jain
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

Writing has been identified as an important skill. Business writing refers to the form of writing that is used to communicate in formal settings in various corporations and organizations. A number of research studies have identified writing as a crucial skill that needs to be developed by students. The purpose of the study is therefore to understand how an experiential learning module on business writing can improve the email-writing and report-writing skills of management postgraduates.

Design/Methodology/Approach:

The study uses an experimental research methodology based on experiential learning pedagogy to obtain the results of the intervention on the business writing skills of the management postgraduate students. The module was developed by the researcher and then was taught to the students through the online platform Zoom. Pretest, posttest, and delayed posttest analysis was conducted to find the impact of the intervention. The students were evaluated by an industry expert to avoid bias as they were trained by the researcher.

Findings:

The results of the study indicated that the intervention had a significant impact on the business writing skills of the participants. The results of the component analysis also indicated a large effect on the content, persuasive abilities, lateral thinking abilities, and the interpersonal skills of the participants in written communication. The analysis of the test scores revealed that an initial training based on the experiential learning methods can have a long-term impact on the improvement of the skills of the students, as the delayed posttest results were more than the posttest results.

Originality/value:

The study will be beneficial to educators, trainers, as well as students in understanding how experiential learning can impact the business writing skills of the students.
Transfemoral TAVR with Surgical Cut-down in a Patient with Aorto Bi-iliac Bypass Graft
Authors: Paidi Suresh Kumar , Chintada Mounika
Published: February 2024

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become the mainstream option for patients with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis and is preferably performed by the transfemoral route. However, a subset of patients requires alternative access with comorbidities associated with femoral access routes, and alternative access such as transapical, transaxillary, transcarotid, subclavian, and transcaval can be considered. However, access options are further limited by the presence of severe comorbidities. This case reports TAVR performed through a transfemoral approach in a patient with previous aorto bi-iliac bypass graft surgery.
Incidence and risk factors of pain crisis after hematopoietic cell transplantation for sickle cell disease
Authors: Krishnamurti Lakshmanan , Liang Jingchen , He Zili , Deng Yanhong , Nallagatla Vineetha R. , Hamidi Rohaum , Flagg Aron , Shah Niketa
Published: February 2024

Vaso-occlusive episodes (VOC) or pain crises are the most common indications for hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for sickle cell disease (SCD). Elimination of pain crisis after HCT is an important patient-centered outcome and may improve understanding of the natural history of pain syndromes in SCD. We examined deidentified records of 763 patients followed-up for a median of 36.7 months (range, 0.3-168.6 months), with 69.6% patient's age <18 years at HCT, 83.3% patient's Karnofsky-Lansky performance score (KPS) ≥90, overall survival 92.9%, event-free survival 72.4%, graft failure (GF) 22.4%, AGVHD 21.4%, CGVHD 27%, and pain crisis 8.65%. On unadjusted logistic regression, increased risk of pain crisis after HCT was observed in patient's aged >10 years at HCT (range, 11-17 years; OR, 9.43; 95% CI, 3.20-27.79; P < .0001), in age ≥18 years (OR, 16.62; 95% CI, 5.85-47.16; P < .0001), in those with history of pain crisis 2 years before HCT (OR, 13.16; 95% CI, 4.08-42.42; P < .0001), alternate donors (haploidentical [OR, 4.80; 95% CI, 2.48-9.31; P < .0001], unrelated matched [OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.23-5.97; P = .0132], and mismatched unrelated [OR, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.44-7.05; P = .0041], and those with GF (n = 41 [5.37%]; OR, 7.15; 95% CI, 4.20-12.18; P < .0001). Pain crisis was less frequent with KPS of ≥90 (OR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.18-0.55; P < .0001). Multivariable logistic regression models confirmed age at HCT, KPS, graft type, donor type, history of VOC 2 years before HCT, and GF as independent predictors of pain crisis after HCT and generated predictive models and nomograms for pain crisis after HCT for SCD, which can support shared decision making.
Flares of acute graft-versus-host disease: a Mount Sinai Acute GVHD International Consortium analysis
Authors: Akahoshi Yu , Spyrou Nikolaos , Hoepting Matthias , Aguayo-Hiraldo Paibel , Ayuk Francis , Chanswangphuwana Chantiya , Choe Hannah K. , Eder Matthias , Etra Aaron M. , Grupp Stephan A. , Hexner Elizabeth O. , Hogan William J. , Kitko Carrie L. , Kraus Sabrina , Al Malki Monzr M. , Merli Pietro , Qayed Muna , Reshef Ran , Schechter Tal , Ullrich Evelyn , Vasova Ingrid , Wölfl Matthias , Zeiser Robert , Baez Janna , Beheshti Rahnuma , Eng Gilbert , Gleich Sigrun , Kasikis Stelios , Katsivelos Nikolaos , Kowalyk Steven , Morales George , Young Rachel , DeFilipp Zachariah , Ferrara James L. M. , Levine John E. , Nakamura Ryotaro
Published: February 2024

The absence of a standardized definition for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) flares and data on its clinical course are significant concerns. We retrospectively evaluated 968 patients across 23 Mount Sinai Acute GVHD International Consortium (MAGIC) transplant centers who achieved complete response (CR) or very good partial response (VGPR) within 4 weeks of treatment. The cumulative incidence of flares within 6 months was 22%, and flares were associated with a higher risk of nonrelapse mortality (NRM; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 4.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.19-7.36; P < .001). Flares were more severe (grades 3/4, 41% vs 16%; P < .001) and had more frequent lower gastrointestinal (LGI) involvement (55% vs 32%; P < .001) than the initial GVHD. At CR/VGPR, elevated MAGIC biomarkers predicted the future occurrence of a flare, along with its severity and LGI involvement. In multivariate analyses, higher Ann Arbor (AA) biomarker scores at CR/VGPR were significant risk factors for flares (AA2 vs AA1: aHR, 1.81 [95% CI, 1.32-2.48; P = .001]; AA3 vs AA1: aHR, 3.14 [95% CI, 1.98-4.98; P < .001]), as were early response to initial treatment (aHR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.21-2.80; P = .004) and HLA-mismatched unrelated donor (aHR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.00-3.02; P = .049). MAGIC biomarkers also stratified the risk of NRM both at CR/VGPR and at the time of flare. We conclude that GVHD flares are common and carry a significant mortality risk. The occurrence of future flares can be predicted by serum biomarkers that may serve to guide adjustment and discontinuation of immunosuppression.
Absolute quantitation of human wild-type DNAI1 protein in lung tissue using a nanoLC-PRM-MS-based targeted proteomics approach coupled with immunoprecipitation
Authors: Wang Hui , Ni Xiaoyan , Clark Nicholas , Randall Kristen , Boeglin Lianne , Chivukula Sudha , Woo Caroline , DeRosa Frank , Sun Gang
Published: February 2024

Background

Dynein axonemal intermediate chain 1 protein (DNAI1) plays an essential role in cilia structure and function, while its mutations lead to primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). Accurate quantitation of DNAI1 in lung tissue is crucial for comprehensive understanding of its involvement in PCD, as well as for developing the potential PCD therapies. However, the current protein quantitation method is not sensitive enough to detect the endogenous level of DNAI1 in complex biological matrix such as lung tissue.

Methods

In this study, a quantitative method combining immunoprecipitation with nanoLC-MS/MS was developed to measure the expression level of human wild-type (WT) DNAI1 protein in lung tissue. To our understanding, it is the first immunoprecipitation (IP)-MS based method for absolute quantitation of DNAI1 protein in lung tissue. The DNAI1 quantitation was achieved through constructing a standard curve with recombinant human WT DNAI1 protein spiked into lung tissue matrix.

Results

This method was qualified with high sensitivity and accuracy. The lower limit of quantitation of human DNAI1 was 4 pg/mg tissue. This assay was successfully applied to determine the endogenous level of WT DNAI1 in human lung tissue.

Conclusions

The results clearly demonstrate that the developed assay can accurately quantitate low-abundance WT DNAI1 protein in human lung tissue with high sensitivity, indicating its high potential use in the drug development for DNAI1 mutation-caused PCD therapy.
Use of 3D printing models for donor tooth extraction in autotransplantation cases
Authors: Hou Rui , Hui Xiaoyong , Xu Guangjie , Li Yongqing , Yang Xia , Xu Jie , Liu Yanli , Zhu Minghui , Zhu Qinglin , Sun Yu
Published: February 2024

Objective

To clarify whether the 3D printing model has auxiliary functions in toto extraction of donor tooth in autotransplantation cases.

Methods

Two hundred and sixty patients who would have operation of ATT were divided into two groups. In group 1, determination of the tooth extraction in toto was predicted only according to the clinical and imaging examination. In group 2, the prediction was performed according to the clinical and imaging examination as well as the 3D model of donor tooth pre-extraction. A prespctive clinical study was designed on intra-group comparison between the predicted and actual donor teeth situation when extraction in cases of ATT. The consistent rate for the predicted results and the actual results were compared with the two groups.

Results

A remarkable difference was observed between the predicted results and the actual results of tooth positions and root numbers in group without model (p < 0,05). The consistency rate of the model group (94.62%) was significantly higher than that of non 3D model group (86.15%) (p = 0.034).

Conclusion

The 3D printing model for the donor tooth is helpful for dentists to predict the accuracy of toto extraction of donor teeth in autotransplantation cases.
Turnover behavior and intention among dentists and medical doctors: a cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Shi Keying , Wang Yong , Sun Zhe , Zhao Jing , Xiang Fangyue , Chen Zhi , Sun Wenjing , Zheng Yuanna
Published: February 2024

Background

Retention of doctors is a global challenge and doctors working in different departments may face different problems. The study aimed to explore the turnover behavior and intention and correlated factors among Chinese dentists and medical doctors in other clinical fields.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted online in 5 regions of China from March 12th to April 12th, 2020. The questionnaire included 3 parts, socio-demographic characteristics, turnover behavior and intention, and concerns about work-related factors. Chi-square test and/or Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney test were applied for comparison, and binary logistic regression was used for finding the factors.

Results

A total of 2428 eligible questionnaire were received, comprising 1954 responses from dentists and 474 from medical doctors. Rates of turnover behavior among dentists and medical doctors were 2.87% and 6.96%, respectively. Similarly, rates of turnover intention were 51.79% among dentists and 71.20% among medical doctors. Educational level was negatively correlated with turnover behavior of both medical doctors and dentists, and concern about salary was a unique negatively correlated factor for dentists. Age was negatively correlated with turnover intention in both medical doctors and dentists. Conversely, concerns about workload and doctor-patient relationship were positively correlated with turnover intention in both groups. Concern about salary was the distinct correlated factor of medical doctors’ turnover intention, while gender and annual household income were correlated with turnover intention among dentists.

Conclusions

Low turnover rate but high turnover intention rate was the current status of Chinese doctors’ employment. Turnover behavior and intention were more optimistic among dentists than medical doctors. Factors related to turnover behavior and turnover intention were not identical among dentists and medical doctors. Therefore, personalized retention measures were necessary for dentists and medical doctors.
Tumor polo-like kinase 4 protein expression reflects lymphovascular invasion, higher Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage, and shortened survival in endometrial cancer patients who undergo surgical resection
Authors: Zhao Qinyan , Wang Minli , Chen Mingcong
Published: February 2024

Background

Polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4) serves as a marker for tumor features and poor outcomes in cancers. This study aimed to explore the associations of tumor PLK4 protein expression with tumor characteristics and survival in endometrial cancer (EC) patients who underwent surgical resection.

Methods

This study included 142 EC patients who underwent surgical resection. Tumor tissue samples were obtained for tumor PLK4 protein expression detection via immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

Among EC patients, 26.1% had a PLK4 IHC score of 0, 24.6% had a score of 1–3, 27.5% had a score of 4–6, and 21.8% had a score of 7–12. Tumor PLK4 protein expression positively associated with lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.008) and Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage (P = 0.005). Disease-free survival (DFS) was not different between patients with tumor PLK4 IHC scores > 0 and ≤ 0 (P = 0.154) but was reduced in patients with scores > 3 vs. ≤ 3 (P = 0.009) and > 6 vs. ≤ 6 (P < 0.001). Similarly, overall survival (OS) was not different between patients with scores > 0 and ≤ 0 (P = 0.322) but was shorter in patients with scores > 3 vs. ≤ 3 (P = 0.011) and > 6 vs. ≤ 6 (P = 0.006). After adjustment, a tumor PLK4 IHC score > 6 (vs. ≤ 6) (hazard ratio (HR): 3.156, P = 0.008) or > 3 (vs. ≤ 3) (HR: 3.918, P = 0.026) was independently associated with shortened DFS and OS.

Conclusion

A tumor PLK4 IHC score > 6 or > 3 associates with shortened DFS and OS in EC patients who undergo surgical resection.
Nursing students’ metaphors of first clinical experiences of encountering patients with mental disorders
Authors: Mansouri Fatemeh , Darvishpour Azar
Published: February 2024

Background

Psychiatric wards are one of the most stressful medical centers. Apprenticeship in mental health can cause feelings of stress and anxiety among nursing students. Investigating nursing students’ beliefs about mental illnesses is very important to improve nursing education. The present study aimed to identify nursing students’ metaphors for their first clinical experiences of encountering patients with mental disorders.

Methods

This descriptive qualitative study was conducted on 18 undergraduate nursing students studying in two nursing colleges at Guilan University of Medical Sciences, in the north of Iran, in 2022. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Critical Metaphor Analysis by the MAXQDA 2007 software.

Results

The analysis of nursing students’ metaphors led to the emergence of 36 metaphors and 5 categories. These categories were “experience of dealing with a mental patient is similar to fear mixed with excitement”, " patient is similar to an errant human”, " psychiatric hospital is similar to a prison”, “nurse is similar to a prison guard”, and “clinical instructor is similar to a supporter, sympathetic and knowledgeable friend”.

Conclusions

The results showed their negative attitude towards the psychiatric hospital and health care providers. It is suggested that the findings of this study be taken into consideration in the planning of clinical education of nursing students.
Identification of four snoRNAs (SNORD16, SNORA73B, SCARNA4, and SNORD49B) as novel non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosis of breast cancer
Authors: Li Xiao , Zhao Xuan , Xie Li , Song Xingguo , Song Xianrang
Published: February 2024

Background

Emerging data point to the critical role of snoRNA in the emergence of different types of cancer, but scarcely in breast cancer (BC). This study aimed to clarify the differential expressions and potential diagnostic value of SNORD16, SNORA73B, SCARNA4, and SNORD49B in BC.

Methods

We screened differential snoRNAs in BC tissues and adjacent tissues through SNORic datasets, and then we further verified them in the plasma of BC patients and healthy volunteers by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

These four snoRNAs: SNORD16, SNORA73B, SCARNA4, and SNORD49B were considerably more abundant in cancerous tissues than in neighboring tissues in the TCGA database. Their plasma levels were also higher in BC and early-stage BC patients when compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, the ROC curve demonstrated that BC (AUC = 0.7521) and early-stage BC (AUC = 0.7305) might be successfully distinguished from healthy people by SNORD16, SNORA73B, SCARNA4, and SNORD49B.

Conclusion

Plasma snoRNAs: SNORD16, SNORA73B, SCARNA4, and SNORD49B were upregulated in BC and early-stage BC and can be used as potential diagnostic markers for BC and early-stage BC.
Health, harm reduction, and social service providers’ perspectives on the appropriateness and feasibility of peer distribution of HIV self-test kits among people who use drugs
Authors: Bazzi Angela R. , Valasek Chad J. , Stamos-Buesig Tara , Eger William H. , Harvey-Vera Alicia , Vera Carlos F. , Syvertsen Jennifer L. , Storholm Erik D. , Bartholomew Tyler S. , Tookes Hansel E. , Strathdee Steffanie A. , Pines Heather A.
Published: February 2024

Background

People who use drugs (PWUD) experience elevated HIV risk and numerous barriers to facility-based HIV testing. HIV self-testing (HIVST) could circumvent many of those barriers and is acceptable among PWUD, yet HIVST implementation for PWUD is limited. Service providers’ perspectives on specific HIVST delivery strategies could help increase availability for PWUD.

Methods

From April–November 2021, we interviewed 16 health, harm reduction, and social service providers working with PWUD in San Diego, CA. Interviews and rapid thematic analysis explored perspectives on HIVST’s utility and appropriateness, as well as the feasibility of and anticipated challenges with specific HIVST delivery strategies, including peer or secondary distribution.

Results

Participants viewed HIV as a significant threat to PWUD health and confirmed the presence of numerous barriers to local facility-based HIV testing. Participants viewed HIVST as a promising and potentially empowering solution. Based on community familiarity with secondary distribution of harm reduction supplies (i.e., naloxone) and information, participants viewed secondary distribution of HIVST kits as an appropriate and feasible strategy for increasing the reach of HIVST, but also described potential barriers (e.g., engaging socially disconnected individuals, ensuring linkages to services following HIVST) and provided suggestions for alternative HIVST kit delivery models (e.g., harm reduction vending machines).

Conclusions

Service providers viewed secondary distribution of HIVST kits among PWUD as promising, appropriate, and feasible, yet specialized efforts may be needed to reach the most marginalized individuals and ensure consistent provision of educational information and referral supports that maximize the impact of this approach.
Challenges in legitimizing further measures against smoking in jurisdictions with robust infrastructure for tobacco control: how far can the authorities allow themselves to go?
Authors: Lund Karl Erik , Saebo Gunnar
Published: February 2024

Background

According to a recently published study, approximately half of those who currently smoke in Norway have little or no desire to quit despite a hostile regulatory and socio-cultural climate for smoking. On this background, we discuss some challenges that regulators will face in a further tightening of structural measures to curb smoking.

Main body

Central to our discussion is the research literature concerned with the concept of state-paternalism in tobacco control—the line between an ethically justified interference with the freedom of those who smoke and an exaggerated infringement disproportionate to the same people’s right to live as they choose. In countries with an already advanced infrastructure for tobacco control, this dilemma might become quite intrusive for regulators. We ask that if people, who smoke are aware of and have accepted the risks, are willing to pay the price, smoke exclusively in designated areas, and make decisions uninfluenced by persuasive messages from manufacturers—is a further tightening of anti-smoking measures still legitimate? Strengthening of the infrastructure for tobacco control can be seen as a “help” to people who—due to some sort of “decision failure”—continue to smoke against their own will. However, for those who want to continue smoking for reasons that for them appear rational, such measures may appear unwanted, punitive, and coercive. Is it within the rights of regulators to ignore peoples’ self-determination for the sake of their own good? We problematize the “help” argument and discuss the authorities' right to elevate the zero-vision of smoking as universally applicable while at the same time setting up barriers to switching to alternative nicotine products with reduced risk.

Conclusion

We recommend that a further intensification of smoking control in countries that already have a well-developed policy in this area requires that regulators start to exploit the opportunity that lies in the ongoing diversification of the recreational nicotine market.
Preoperative predictors for non-resectability in perihilar cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Otto Carlos Constantin , Mantas Anna , Heij Lara Rosaline , Heise Daniel , Dewulf Maxime , Lang Sven Arke , Ulmer Tom Florian , Dahl Edgar , Bruners Philipp , Neumann Ulf Peter , Bednarsch Jan
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Explorative laparotomy without subsequent curative-intent liver resection remains a major clinical problem in the treatment of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCCA). Thus, we aimed to identify preoperative risk factors for non-resectability of pCCA patients.

Material and methods

Patients undergoing surgical exploration between 2010 and 2022 were eligible for the analysis. Separate binary logistic regressions analyses were used to determine risk factors for non-resectability after explorative laparotomy due to technical (tumor extent, vessel infiltration) and oncological (peritoneal carcinomatosis, distant nodal or liver metastases)/liver function reasons.

Results

This monocentric cohort comprised 318 patients with 209 (65.7%) being surgically resected and 109 (34.3%) being surgically explored [explorative laparotomy: 87 (27.4%), laparoscopic exploration: 22 (6.9%)]. The median age in the cohort was 69 years (range 60–75) and a majority had significant comorbidities with ASA-Score ≥ 3 (202/318, 63.5%). Statistically significant (p < 0.05) risk factors for non-resectability were age above 70 years (HR = 3.76, p = 0.003), portal vein embolization (PVE, HR = 5.73, p = 0.007), and arterial infiltration > 180° (HR = 8.05 p < 0.001) for technical non-resectability and PVE (HR = 4.67, p = 0.018), arterial infiltration > 180° (HR = 3.24, p = 0.015), and elevated CA 19–9 (HR = 3.2, p = 0.009) for oncological/liver-functional non-resectability.

Conclusion

Advanced age, PVE, arterial infiltration, and elevated CA19-9 are major risk factors for non-resectability in pCCA. Preoperative assessment of those factors is crucial for better therapeutical pathways. Diagnostic laparoscopy, especially in high-risk situations, should be used to reduce the amount of explorative laparotomies without subsequent liver resection.
Bibliometric and visualized analysis of scientific publications on subglottic stenosis based on web of science core collection
Authors: Zhang Yaping , Dai Zhanqiu , Xia Qixin , Wu Yufeng , TingxiaoZhao  , Chen Qi , Xia Chen , Zhang Jun , Xu Jiongnan
Published: February 2024

Background

Subglottic Stenosis (SGS), with increasing numbers of studies, is the most specific and common clinical type of Laryngotracheal Stenosis (LTS). There is rapid publication turnover with newer management introduced and expanding research field. To our knowledge, there is no bibliometric analysis of SGS yet.

Methods

In August 2022, we performed a thorough search in the Web of Science Core Collection database using the word “subglottic stenosis,” and “SGS.” The 580 articles were arranged based on correlation. The collected articles were then analyzed with an assessment of relevant factors. Meanwhile, we analyzed the top 100 most-cited articles on SGS.

Results

The frequency of publication on SGS has increased substantially over time. The USA has contributed the most articles (n = 301). Vanderbilt University published most of the articles among other institutions (n = 18). Laryngoscope topped the list of journals and has published 89 SGS-related articles. Research hotspots shift from surgical treatment to conservative management.

Conclusions

The SGS-related literature has grown rapidly in recent years. This study represents the first bibliometric analysis of scientific articles on SGS. Areas to improve in SGS research can be identified after this analysis of the most impactful articles on this topic.
Atypical presentation of tight filum terminale with thoracic disc herniation: a case report
Authors: Miyagami Taiju , Nojiri Hidetoshi , Okada Satoru , Mitsumoto Kiichi , Uemura Kosuke , Naito Toshio
Published: February 2024

Background

Tight filum terminale is a rare and challenging condition to diagnose because it presents with nonspecific symptoms and unclear imaging findings. This report documents an atypical case of tight filum terminale.

Case presentation

The patient was a previously healthy Asian 18-year-old male presenting with recurrent upper extremity and back pain, initially treated as nonspecific musculoskeletal pain. Notably, the patient’s symptoms were inconsistent with the dermatome, showing no correlation with his skin’s sensory innervation areas. In contrast to typical tight filum terminale presentations focused on lower extremity and lumbar region disturbances, this patient experienced pain and weakness predominantly in the upper extremities and back, hypothesized to result from traction myelopathy exacerbated by thoracic disc herniation. Investigations including blood and nerve function tests were inconclusive. However, a magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed a combination of tight filum terminale and tiny thoracic disc herniation. A diagnosis of tethered spinal cord syndrome was confirmed following further tests and imaging. The filum terminale was surgically removed, resolving the symptoms at a 7-month follow-up.

Conclusions

This case underlines the importance of including tight filum terminale as a differential diagnosis in cases of unexplained upper or lower extremity pain. Primary care practitioners, particularly those managing undefined symptoms, should consider tight filum terminale in their diagnostic approach.