bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative Negative Pain Thoughts and Their Correlation With Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Kuechly Henry , Kurkowski Sarah , Johnson Brian , Shah Nihar , Grawe Brian
Published: May 2024

Background:

Pain and pain perception are influenced by patients’ thoughts. The short form Negative Pain Thoughts Questionnaire (NPTQ-SF) can be used to quantify unhelpful negative cognitive biases about pain, but the relationship between NPTQ-SF scores and orthopaedic surgery outcomes is not known.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose was to assess the relationship between negative pain thoughts, as measured by the NPTQ-SF, and patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, as well as to compare NPTQ-SF scores and outcomes between patients with and without a history of chronic pain and psychiatric history. It was hypothesized that patients with worse negative pain thoughts would have worse patient-reported outcomes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

In total, 109 patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were administered the 4-item NPTQ-SF, 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Shoulder Evaluation Form, and visual analog scale pain survey preoperatively between July 2021 and August 2022. The same surveys were completed ≥6 months postoperatively by 74 patients confirmed to have undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Results:

Preoperative NPTQ-SF scores did not show any correlation with the postoperative patient-reported outcomes measured in this study. Postoperative NPTQ-SF scores were statistically significantly negatively correlated with postoperative SF-12 Physical Health Score, SF-12 Mental Health Score, ASES, and satisfaction scores ( P < .05). Postoperative NPTQ-SF scores were statistically significantly positively correlated with postoperative visual analog scale scores ( P < .001). Moreover, postoperative NPTQ-SF scores were statistically significantly negatively correlated with achieving a Patient Acceptable Symptom State and the minimal clinically important difference on the postoperative ASES form ( P < .001 and P = .009, respectively).

Conclusion:

Postoperative patient thought patterns and their perception of pain are correlated with postoperative outcomes after rotator cuff repair. This correlation suggests a role for counseling and expectation management in the postoperative setting. Conversely, preoperative thought patterns regarding pain, as measured by the NPTQ-SF, do not correlate with postoperative patient-reported outcome measures. Therefore, the NPTQ-SF should not be used as a preoperative tool to aid the prediction of outcomes after rotator cuff repair.
An Intervention to Improve Mental and Physical Health of Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Ciezar Andersen Sylwia , Campbell Tavis , White Deborah , King-Shier Kathryn
Published: May 2024

Background

Nursing students experience poorer mental and physical health relative to students in other health-related disciplines and young adults of similar age outside post-secondary school. Compromised mental and physical health has numerous negative impacts on nursing students and can result in burnout and development of chronic diseases.

Purpose

To determine whether an asynchronous online yoga intervention would improve mental and physical health of students.

Methods

An asynchronous online 6-week yoga intervention was carried out between January and December 2021, using a pre/post design. Participants’ symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and self-compassion were assessed using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale and Self-Compassion Scale and core endurance was assessed using the Mackenzie Core Endurance Test prior to commencement and at the conclusion of the program.

Results

Of 114 participants, 68 completed the online program and pre and post measures showed that the mean depression, anxiety, stress, self-compassion and core endurance scores improved significantly ( p<0.001) between baseline and study completion.

Conclusion

A six-week virtual yoga program significantly improved mental and physical health of undergraduate nursing students. Targeted modifications to the yoga program might enhance participant retention.
Navigating the Unseen Strain: The Hidden Challenges of Black Nursing Faculty in the Fight Against Anti-Black Racism
Authors: Daniel Kimani , Beaubrun Anne-Laurie
Published: May 2024

As Black faculty members of a majority-White nursing school, we reflected on our unique experiences as part of a Black community engagement project, aimed at addressing anti-Black racism in nursing education. Our positionality created a complex scenario as we navigated emotionally heavy discussions, grappled with our ability to manage competing interests and care for our own well-being. The invisibility of the undue burden of anti-racism work is discussed. Recommendations for alleviating the burden are proposed based on this lived experience. Nursing schools must recognize the uniqueness of Black faculty members’ experiences. Proposed strategies include creating mechanisms and resources for emotional support and incorporating anti-racism initiatives into the nursing school's values and strategic plan.
Individualized Autoregulation-Derived Cerebral Perfusion Targets in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: A New Therapeutic Avenue?
Authors: Svedung Wettervik Teodor Mikael , Hånell Anders , Howells Timothy , Ronne-Engström Elisabeth , Lewén Anders , Enblad Per
Published: May 2024

Background: Cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) is an important target in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH), but it does not take into account autoregulatory disturbances. The pressure reactivity index (PRx) and the CPP with the optimal PRx (CPPopt) are new variables that may capture these pathomechanisms. In this study, we investigated the effect on the outcome of certain combinations of CPP or ΔCPPopt (actual CPP-CPPopt) with the concurrent autoregulatory status (PRx) after aSAH. Methods: This observational study included 432 aSAH patients, treated in the neurointensive care unit, at Uppsala University Hospital, Sweden. Functional outcome (GOS-E) was assessed 1-year postictus. Heatmaps of the percentage of good monitoring time (%GMT) of PRx/CPP and PRx/ΔCPPopt combinations in relation to GOS-E were created to visualize the association between these variables and outcome. Results: In the heatmap of the %GMT of PRx/CPP, the combination of lower CPP with higher PRx values was more strongly associated with lower GOS-E. The tolerance for lower CPP values increased with lower PRx values until a threshold of −0.50. However, for decreasing PRx below −0.50, there was a gradual reduction in the tolerance for lower CPP. In the heatmap of the %GMT of PRx/ΔCPPopt, the combination of negative ΔCPPopt with higher PRx values was strongly associated with lower GOS-E. In particular, negative ΔCPPopt together with PRx above +0.50 correlated with worse outcomes. In addition, there was a transition toward an unfavorable outcome when PRx went below −0.50, particularly if ΔCPPopt was negative. Conclusions: The PRx levels influenced the association between CPP/ΔCPPopt and outcome. Thus, this variable could be used to individualize a safe CPP-/ΔCPPopt-range.
Between Conflict and Cooperation: Electoral Strategies of Ethnic Parties
Authors: Spáč Peter , Zagrapan Jozef
Published: May 2024

The paper analyses the impact of local demography on the electoral strategies of ethnic political parties. We focus on Hungarian parties in Slovakia and their tactics of fielding candidates in the 2014 and 2018 mayoral elections in 4,461 municipalities with competitive elections. We find that local demography is an essential explanatory factor concerning the strategies of ethnic parties. Our results show that in towns where an ethnic minority predominates, ethnic parties are more likely to challenge each other in elections. On the other hand, we find only little support for the split demography hypothesis that ethnic parties will cooperate in such an environment. Although Hungarian parties form alliances in these municipalities, their occurrence is not different than in towns where the same ethnic group dominates the local population. Finally, we observe that in areas where Hungarians are a numerical minority, inter-ethnic alliances are formed, but only by the more moderate ethnic party. In general, the paper shows that the ethnic composition of municipalities can provide incentives to avoid ethnic outbidding as well as to enhance intra-ethnic rivalry.
Noticing Voluntary E-Cigarette Warning Labels and Associations With Harm Perceptions and Use Intentions: A Baseline Cross-Sectional Analysis of Wave 4 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study Prior to the Food and Drug Administration Mandate
Authors: Wysota Christina N. , Duan Zongshuan , Wang Yan , Niaura Raymond S. , Abroms Lorien C.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To examine the effect of e-cigarette warning labels (EWLs) prior to the August 2018 FDA-warning label mandate to establish a baseline for future research.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

United States.

Participants

A cohort of adult participants in the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study (n = 30,004) at Wave 4 (Dec 2016-Jan 2018).

Measures

Correlates (e.g., sociodemographics, substance use, social influence, cigarette warnings, and mental health) of noticing EWLs in the past 30-days (noticed vs did not notice), perceived harm of e-cigarettes/nicotine (from 1 = not at all harmful to 5 = extremely harmful), relative harm of e-cigarettes (from 1 = less harmful to 3 = more harmful than cigarettes), intention to quit (yes/no) and intention to try e-cigarettes (from 1 = definitely not to 4 = definitely yes).

Results

The prevalence of noticing EWLs was 22.1%. Those who currently use electronic nicotine products, established and experimentally, were more likely to notice EWLs relative to never users (aOR = 3.55; 95% CI: 2.96-4.25; P < .001 and aOR = 2.42; 95% CI: 1.88-3.10; P < .001, respectively). Those with past 30-day alcohol and cigarette use were less likely to notice EWLs (aOR = .27; 95% CI: .24-.31 and aOR = .91; 95% CI: .83-.99; respectively). Those who noticed cigarette warnings were more likely to notice EWLs (aOR = 12.00; 95% CI: 10.46-13.77; P < .001). Among those who noticed EWLs, there were higher odds of perceiving e-cigarettes to be equally or more harmful than cigarettes (aOR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.02-1.30), but no association was found between noticing EWLs and perceived harm of e-cigarettes/nicotine or use intentions.

Conclusion

Noticing voluntary EWLs was not associated with increased perceived harm of e-cigarettes and nicotine harm, or e-cigarette use intentions. Future research is warranted to examine the effect of the FDA mandated EWLs.
Why underserved business students show a lack of interest in developing sought-after STEM skills
Authors: Sheu Myron
Published: May 2024

Technological advancements have profoundly transformed business operations and decision-making processes. They underscore the pivotal role of technology in gaining a competitive edge, a critical competency for future business leaders. However, college students in business disciplines, particularly underserved populations, commonly exhibit a lack of interest in developing STEM skills. This issue arises from a complex interplay of various factors that require further exploration. This paper presents an empirical study that delves into the multifaceted origins of this challenge. The study unveils significant insights, shedding light on the importance of addressing disparities in early STEM engagement. The resulting findings mostly align with our hypothesis, suggesting the need for unconventional STEM education tailored for underserved business students. By examining the roots of this issue, the research brings about nuanced perspectives for educators and other stakeholders to consider when developing targeted strategies to enhance the readiness of underserved business graduates for the demands of technology-driven business environments.
Low on the Kinsey scale: Homosexuality in Swedish and Finnish sex research, 1960s–1990s
Authors: Taavetti Riikka
Published: May 2024

This article addresses the history of sociological sex research and its reception in Sweden and Finland. It describes the background and implementation of the first study in Sweden in 1967, and how the methodology of this study was adopted in Finland in 1971. Both of these studies were followed up in the 1990s with surveys that documented the changes in sexuality, 1992 in Finland and 1996 in Sweden. As the studies were labelled ‘Kinsey studies’ of their respective countries, the article examines the effect that the work of Alfred Kinsey's research group had on them. In particular, the article pays attention to the role of homosexuality in the studies and their reception, both in the mainstream media and in lesbian and gay organizations’ magazines. The article argues that, even though the studies recognized their position on the continuum of sex research stemming from Kinsey's work, they did not have a similar role in normalizing homosexuality. On the contrary, the studies showed diminishingly small numbers of homosexual respondents, even in the 1990s, when lesbian and gay rights were rapidly developing, and the studies were used to argue against equality and minority rights.
Surrogate-based aerodynamic shape optimization of high-speed train heads: A review of four key technologies
Authors: Wang Hongbo , Wang Shuangbu , Zhuang Dayuan , Zhu Zaiping , You Pengcheng , Tang Zhao , Ding Guofu
Published: May 2024

With the increase in running speed, the aerodynamic characteristics of high-speed trains have a significant impact on running stability, energy consumption and passenger comfort. Since the shape of the high-speed train head can directly influence the surrounding airflow, optimizing the head shape is the primary way to improve the aerodynamic performance of the train. This paper reviews current research studies on the surrogate-based aerodynamic shape optimization of high-speed train heads, aiming to provide a comprehensive reference for designers to enhance design efficiency and optimization performance. The entire optimization process is divided into four essential steps, and the key optimization technologies in each step are discussed, including parametric modeling, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation, surrogate model and optimization algorithm. By introducing the practical applications of these technologies, we summarize their advantages and disadvantages and suggest four potential research directions for the future.
Cavity noise reduction of a high-speed train pantograph through jet parameter optimization
Authors: Zhang Ziheng , Miao Xiaodan , Liu Daowei , Song Ruigang , Yuan Tianchen , Yang Jian
Published: May 2024

The effect of aerodynamic noise from high-speed trains on residents living near railway lines is a critical issue. The pantograph cavity is considered to be a major source of aerodynamic noise. To address this problem, this study proposes the application of jetting at the leading edge of the cavity, directly targeting noise reduction at its source. The large eddy simulation approach is used for flow calculations, and the Ffowcs Williams and Hawkings aeroacoustic analogy is adopted for far-field acoustic predictions. Orthogonal designs and the backpropagation algorithm optimized by the genetic algorithm (BP-GA) is used to explore the effects of jetting factors on noise and identify the optimal parameters. Orthogonal design analysis shows that the most influential among the factors is jet orifice diameter, followed by jet velocity and jet angle. The use of the BP-GA algorithm for optimization reveals that the optimal jet parameters are jet velocity of 118.28 m/s, jet angle of 3.17°, and jet orifice diameter of 76.74 mm. The algorithm predicts a minimum noise level of 91.04 dB, which is close to the simulated noise level of 90.74 dB. The jetting process achieves a maximum noise reduction of 4 dB. Results demonstrate that the proposed method for cavity leading edge jetting effectively reduces turbulent kinetic energy and horseshoe-shaped vortices in the cavity, leading to noise reduction. This method also minimizes the effects of aerodynamic noise on distant areas, such as waiting areas and residential buildings. This work provides a theoretical basis for increasing high-speed train speeds.
Application of theories in Library and Information Science research in Tanzania: A content analysis
Authors: Kassim Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Using a content analysis approach, this study assessed the application of theories in Library and Information Science (LIS) research in Tanzania. The study’s specific objectives encompassed the analysis of the utilization patterns of theories in LIS research conducted in Tanzania, the identification of predominant theories, the highlighting of specific areas within LIS research where theories have been extensively applied, and the assessment of the level of integration of theories into research. While Kalervo and Vakkari’s classification scheme of LIS research areas was used to identify specific research areas where theories have been applied most, seven categories of theory talk were utilized to evaluate the degree to which these theories have been incorporated into LIS research. The study’s findings reveal a growing inclination towards the use of theories among LIS researchers, albeit at a slow pace. The study has also shown that TAM and UTAUT theories are the most frequently utilized, with information-seeking research being the primary area incorporating theories among all identified research areas. The findings also suggest that while a significant portion of the analyzed articles fall under the major category of the Continuum of Theory Talk, implying substantial incorporation of theories, a small number of them encountered difficulties in effectively integrating theories. The study, therefore, suggests that LIS educators should also prioritize the theoretical aspect of research in their curriculum. This will help researchers improve their understanding of the subject matter, leading to more reliable and precise research.
Feasibility and acceptability of sexually transmitted infection screening during antenatal care of women in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Karim Roksana , Choudhury Sameena , Bari Farzana , Klausner Jeffrey D , Nargis Mahbuba , Khatun Husne Ara , Parveen Shohela , Sheddika Sayda Aysha , Choudhury Sameena , Rahman Fazlur
Published: May 2024

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern worldwide. Untreated STIs may have serious sequelae, particularly in pregnant women. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of screening and treating common STIs in women during pregnancy in Bangladesh.

Methods

Women were enrolled from four maternity clinics/hospitals serving the lower-middle class population in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The participants were interviewed, and vaginal swab samples were collected by clinical staff. Specimens were tested for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and high-risk Human Papilloma Viruses (HPVs) using GeneXpert (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, California). Women were informed of their test results and were provided treatment for curable infections. A test of cure was performed.

Results

Out of 1157 pregnant women approached, 1000 (86.4%) participated. Ninety-one percent women learned of their test results on the same day of testing. Out of the 996 valid results, 7 (0.7%) tested positive for Chlamydia trachomatis and 1 (0.1%) for Trichomonas vaginalis. There were no gonorrhoea cases. Out of the 971 women with valid results for high-risk HPVs, 46 (4.7%) tested positive.

Conclusions

Screening women for STIs during antenatal care was highly feasible and well-accepted in Bangladesh. While the prevalence of common curable STIs was very low, hrHPV infection prevalence was moderately high. Our findings support period monitoring of STIs and continued prevention efforts for cervical cancer in Bangladesh.
Energy consumption analysis of metropolitan logistics vehicles based on an ensemble K-means long short-term memory model
Authors: Gan Shaojun , Zhang Qiuyi , Wang Yanxia
Published: May 2024

In recent years, creating a green and low-carbon sustainable development has received extensive attention, prompting considerable research into reducing pollution emissions in the transportation sector. This paper analyzes the energy consumption patterns of logistics vehicles on Beijing’s Sixth Ring Road. Firstly, driving segments are categorized based on variations in vehicle speed, followed by the application of the [Formula: see text]-means algorithm for segment clustering, resulting in the identification of three distinct driving states and the construction of corresponding driving cycles. It is observed that the driving states have high correlations with different road grades. Subsequent analysis reveals that speed, torque, and engine speed are the primary factors influencing energy consumption of logistic vehicles. Furthermore, energy consumption prediction models using the long short-term memory algorithm for the identified driving states on various road types are built leveraging historical data, i.e. vehicle speed, motor torque, and engine speed. Finally, the analysis highlights a notable increase in 100 km energy consumption for logistics trucks on branch roads with complex road conditions. This study contributes to the effective management of energy consumption in medium and large trucks.
Practice recommendations for physiotherapists in Canada managing adverse events associated with acupuncture
Authors: Rajendran Venkadesan
Published: May 2024

In Canada, acupuncture is a regulated medical practice that involves inserting thin needles at specific points on the body to alleviate pain and other health conditions. Acupuncture is a controlled act in physiotherapy practice. Therefore, physiotherapists who incorporate acupuncture into their practice should have the necessary education and roster this controlled act with the regulatory college in their province. Although acupuncture can be helpful, potential complications can arise, ranging from minor bruising to life-threatening conditions such as pneumothorax and cardiac tamponade. This article provides information on the potential adverse effects of acupuncture and provides recommendations for physiotherapists regarding prevention and management of any incidents that may arise during treatment.
A Gendered Analysis of the Influence of Remittances and Democracy on Human Capital Accumulation via Educational Achievements
Authors: Mozumdar Lavlu , Tiza Fahana Tahi , Ame Atia Sharmin , Islam Mohammad Amirul
Published: May 2024

Although development experts acknowledge several development potentials of remittances, a clear understanding of the impacts of remittances and democracy on human capital accumulation regarding gender at the global level is still missing. In this research, we analyse the influences of remittances and democracy on human capital accumulation in terms of educational success, specifically primary, secondary and tertiary education, and average years of schooling with a gender focus at the global level through instrumental variables (IV) regression model. Our model using data from various valid international sources finds that (1) remittances have a significant positive impact on secondary and tertiary education and average years of schooling; (2) these have a higher significant effect on females’ education compared to their male counterparts; and (3) these are more instrumental for education in higher democratic developing countries rather than countries having no- or low-level of democracy. Next to remittances, the results find that (4) democracy has a significant positive influence on primary education and average schooling years; and (5) this is helpful for the educational advancement of both males and females but more effective for women compared to men. Based on our results, we suggest that remittances to developing countries and democratic practices in these countries can support investing and leveraging females’ education, which is a key mechanism for empowering women around the globe.
Values, Attitudes and the Behaviour Paradigm: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Nazirova Zeynab , Borbala Simonovits
Published: May 2024

Values, which serve as fundamental motivators for attitudes and behaviours, have been extensively studied in social sciences. Scholars, beginning with Allport and Rokeach, have developed various theories and conducted empirical research to examine values as independent variables and their connections to other concepts. This article provides a comprehensive review of empirical studies utilizing Schwartz’s value model and corresponding measurement scales (Schwartz Value Scale, 1992 and Portrait Value Questionnaire, 2003) to analyse the relationships between basic human values, attitudes and behaviours. Additionally, we summarize the conditions under which an individual’s internal values activate and how they influence their actions. The analysis of the included articles concludes that basic human values, directly and indirectly, impact attitudes and behaviours regardless of the analytical approaches and contextual factors. Furthermore, the study found that the researchers observe these effects by considering a comprehensive value perspective, context, situational pressures or limitations, cognitive support, time and specific individual and national-level variables.
Unmasking the Connection Between Managerial Narcissism, Machiavellianism and Leader–Member Exchange in the Singaporean Construction Industry: Managerial Corporate Psychopathic Behaviour as a Mediator
Authors: Ravindran Savitha , Subramaniam Anusuiya , Sambasivan Murali
Published: May 2024

The current study aims to investigate the effect of managerial narcissism and Machiavellianism on leader–member exchange (LMX) quality and the mediating role of managerial corporate psychopathic behaviour in the aforementioned relationships. A questionnaire was designed and distributed to management professionals working in the Singaporean construction sector. A total of 300 responses were collected and analysed through SPSS version 26 and SmartPLS 4 software. The results demonstrated that managerial narcissism and Machiavellianism were negatively associated with LMX quality. The findings of this study showed that managerial narcissism and Machiavellianism facilitate managerial corporate psychopathic behaviour. The study also found that a negative relationship exists between managerial corporate psychopathic behaviour and LMX quality. Most importantly, the study provided valuable empirical evidence on the mediating effect of managerial corporate psychopathic behaviour in the relationships between narcissism and LMX quality and between Machiavellianism and LMX quality, thereby highlighting the underlying mechanism interconnecting the variables. Practically, this study draws attention to the need for construction corporations to create an organizational culture emphasizing collaboration instead of hierarchy and autocracy to minimize the indifference between managers and subordinates.
Getting Rid of Organizational Complacency in a Dynamic Environment
Authors: Aranha Rekha , D’souza Anil , Saldanha Avil , Balasundaram Sathiyaseelan , Basavaraj Santosh
Published: May 2024

This case investigates the external consultant’s organizational diagnosis aimed at understanding the imperative for change within Infotics Solutions. It explores various concepts, including the nature of planned change and the resistance exhibited by employees. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of a comprehensive organizational diagnosis before embarking on the change process, highlighting the pitfalls of relying solely on a leader’s intuition and experience to initiate change. Furthermore, the case underlines the implementation of human resource management interventions and their significance from both employee and organizational standpoints. It addresses the protagonist’s recognition of the need for external consultants’ expertise to grasp the problem and devise a strategic change process. The consultants’ methodical approach to planning change across different themes to achieve organizational objectives is elucidated, featuring the importance of employing the right diagnosis technique in situations where the problem is unclear. The case also showcases the consultants’ analytical approach to problem-solving, offering specific solutions tailored to the organization’s needs. Ultimately, it illustrates the challenges faced by organizations that lean heavily on past successes and struggle to adapt to evolving environmental demands. Lastly, the case highlights the importance of analysing survey results and implementing theme-based interventions to address the issues confronting the organization and its employees at Infotics Solutions.
The Art Circle: A Group Experience Using Arts-based Therapy with Children
Authors: Khanna Ankita , Rawat Oshin
Published: May 2024

A rich and long-standing history of creative arts as an instrument for healing, growth, and self-expression, especially amongst children and youth, has been well-documented across time and cultures. Arts-based therapies within the mental health community have also garnered increasing support for positively contributing to the well-being of various groups and individuals. Therefore, this article further examines the use of arts-based therapy in an eight-session therapeutic group with children. Five children in the age range of 9–12 years met weekly for a course of two months at a child and adolescent mental health service in Delhi-NCR, India. Over the course of these 8 sessions, the individual and collective journey of the group members witnessed many ebbs and flows, eventually leading to a positive shift in the inter-group dynamics. In addition, various therapeutic gains were observed and reported for the group members, showing an increased sense of collaboration, confidence, and community.
Between lookism and bodily capital: Understanding female personal trainers’ appearance in occupational socialization
Authors: Kim Byung-Youn , Yang Wooyoung , Lim Seungyup
Published: May 2024

Witnessing that the appearance of female trainers has been regarded as a potential cause of appearance-based discrimination and a source of bodily capital, this study examined the influence of female trainers’ appearance on the process of occupational socialization. We invited eight research participants for in-depth interviews, including female trainers, Pilates instructors, and male fitness center owners with training experience. We followed the grounded theory analysis method to derive meaningful insights from the collected data. The results indicate that the physical appearance of female trainers had various effects on their perceived value as bodily capital during the preparatory and adaptation periods. However, it became a constraining factor during the conflict period as they experienced bodily changes in their late 20s. Eventually, their physical appearance hindered female trainers from maintaining their careers and decreased the percentage of female trainers who reached maturity period. Ultimately, the culture of lookism had a mixed impact on women's occupational socialization, revealing its discriminatory undertones. Although some women profited from the culture, lookism disadvantaged others. Finally, we suggested that a possible solution would be the enactment of the anti-discrimination law for better protection.
Inpatient Palliative Care and Healthcare Utilization Among Older Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD) and High Risk of Mortality in U.S. Hospitals
Authors: Xie Zhigang , Chen Guanming , Oladeru Oluwadamilola T. , Hamadi Hanadi Y. , Montgomery Lucinda , Robinson Maisha T. , Hong Young-Rock
Published: May 2024

Background. Despite the potential of palliative care (PC) to enhance the quality of life for patients with advanced dementia, there is limited knowledge of its inpatient utilization patterns. This study investigated inpatient PC consultation utilization patterns and evaluated its impact on hospital length of stay (LOS) and medical costs among older patients diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia who were at a high risk of mortality (ADRD-HRM). Methods. Using the 2016-2019 National Inpatient Sample database, we conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify individual and hospital characteristics influencing PC consultation utilization. We subsequently performed generalized linear models to estimate LOS (using Poisson distribution) and hospital charges (via log-transformation). Results. Our sample encompassed 965,644 hospital discharges (weighted n = 4,828,219) of patients aged 65 years and above with ADRD-HRM. Among them, 14.6% received inpatient PC. There was a notable uptrend in PC consultation utilization from 13.3% in 2016 to 16.3% in 2019 ( p trend<.001). Factors positively influencing and associated with PC utilization included patients that are older, non-Hispanic White, with higher income, receiving care from teaching hospitals, and facilitated with greater bed capacity (all P < .05). Although patients who received PC were more likely to have 3.0% longer LOS ( P < .001), they had 19.2% lower hospital charges ( P < .001). Conclusions. PC substantially reduced hospital expenditures for older patients with ADRD-HRM, but the prevalence remained low at 14.6% in the study period. Future studies should explore the unmet needs of patients with lower sociodemographic status and those in rural hospitals to further increase their PC consultation utilization.
Competitive Dynamic Pricing Under Capacity Constraints: An Experimental Study
Authors: Cesaret Bahriye , Bayram Armagan
Published: May 2024

Keeping up with competitors’ prices is one of the top operational challenges in pricing. However, competitive interactions in revenue management have not received much research attention in the past due to their complexity. We conduct a series of laboratory experiments to investigate the dynamic pricing behavior of two capacity-constrained firms under competition. Our experiments initially control for strategic interactions between the sellers and then allow for them. To gain a broader understanding, we also manipulate demand uncertainty and the expected market size. Our results confirm the dependency of dynamic pricing decisions on the competitor's behavior. We find that the theory is much more forgiving—in the sense that it predicts a lower level of competition among the sellers—than what we actually observe in the laboratory. The modeling literature indicates that the seller with the lower capacity has a competitive advantage, but our results reveal the opposite. Further, there is potential for high-capacity sellers to benefit from competition. Sellers tend to underprice (resp., overprice) their units at the beginning (resp., end) of a selling season. Also, competition lasts longer than the theory predicts, and customers benefit from the biases of the competing sellers. The higher-capacity seller following the best-response policy is not harmed due to the biases of the competitor. However, the lower-capacity seller's performance is greatly influenced by the competitor's degree of rationality.
Legislator Pivotality and Voter Accountability
Authors: Anderson Sarah E. , Butler Daniel M. , Harbridge-Yong Laurel , Nemerever Zoe
Published: May 2024

Pivotal legislators’ positions are critical to legislative outcomes, but does this heightened importance in policymaking translate into heightened electoral accountability or voter knowledge? Arguments about clarity of responsibility suggest that pivotal legislators, who are decisive in determining legislative outcomes, may be held to higher standards, while perspectives rooted in electoral incentives for position taking suggest they may not. Two survey experiments show that voters do not respond more strongly to pivotal legislators’ votes on policy. Moreover, observational data analysis rejects the expectation that constituents have more knowledge about the votes of pivotal moderate legislators compared to non-pivotal moderate legislators. These results suggest that pivotal legislators face similar, if not lower, accountability for their votes. Combined with the policy-concessions pivotal legislators can secure, these patterns point to the benefits that accrue to pivotal legislators from institutional rules that give them key veto power over policy.
Community Attitudes Toward Adoption in Italy: The Role of Stereotypes and Emotional Reactions
Authors: Novara Cinzia , Ferrari Laura , Barone Lavinia , Dragone Davide , Oldani Chiara , Rosnati Rosa
Published: May 2024

The article explores the attitudes toward the adoption of a representative sample of the Italian population. Focusing on the sociodemographic factors, stereotypes, and feelings about adoption, this study investigates whether and to what extent they can shape attitudes toward adoption. A large sample of 1,003, Italian adults was used in the study. The participants were asked to complete a self-report questionnaire. A series of hierarchical regression models were conducted to examine the relative contributions of factors to explain the Italian's perception of the adoptive family. Results suggest that cognitive and affective processes may significantly contribute to explaining the community's attitudes toward adoption.
Periosteal Ewing Sarcoma with Distant Metastases: Report of Two Patients and Review of the Literature
Authors: Pena-Burgos Eva M. , Díez-Corral María C. , Ortiz-Cruz Eduardo J. , Bernabéu Daniel , Tapia-Viñe Mar , Redondo Andrés , Pérez-Martínez Antonio , Peláez Alberto , Venegas Mascaró Clara , Escudero López Adela , Pozo-Kreilinger Jose J.
Published: May 2024

Periosteal Ewing sarcoma (ES) is an exceedingly rare topographic subtype of the ES. To our knowledge, only 60 patients have been reported in the medical English language literature. It predominantly affects men in the second decade of life and arises in the long tubular bone diaphysis. Periosteal ES rarely develops distant metastases. We report two patients of this rare ES location that were found on the distal tibial shaft and proximal femoral diaphysis of a 21-year-old man and an 8-year-old boy, respectively. Both patients were treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, wide resection, and adjuvant chemotherapy. One of our patients had lung metastases at the time of diagnosis and died 5 years later. The other patient presented intramedullary humeral bone metastasis 19 years after diagnosis. There has been no evidence of disease in the 26 years of follow-up. Close follow-up of periosteal ES is recommended because distant metastases may exceptionally occur, even several years after diagnosis.
Valuing the Disamenity of Open Dumpsites: A Sri Lankan Case Study
Authors: Udugama Gayan K. , Mullins Jamie T.
Published: May 2024

Disposal of municipal solid waste in open dumpsites remains widespread throughout the developing world. While harm to local environments and public health may seem apparent, the lack of credible estimates of damages from open dumpsites is a major reason for their continued use. This paper estimates the disamenity damages imposed by an open dumpsite in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on nearby property owners using hedonic regression methods and a novel data set collected for the purpose. We find that property values increase by 10% for every additional 100 m of distance from the edge of the dumpsite and thus provide the first credible estimate of costs imposed by open dumping in a developing country. As open dumpsites are often sited in less affluent areas, our results suggest that such sites are likely exacerbating urban inequities in urban agglomerations across the developing world.
Comparison of Fixed Versus Weight-Based Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Dosing Strategies for Factor Xa Inhibitor Reversal
Authors: Brett Snyder , Taylor Miller , Pamela McCormick , Michael Gionfriddo
Published: May 2024

Background: Our institution introduced fixed-dose prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) to streamline order verification and medication administration. Previous studies using fixed-dose PCC for vitamin K antagonist reversal showed comparable efficacy to weight-based dosing. Objective: To compare fixed versus weight-based PCC dosing for reversal of Factor Xa Inhibitor (FXaI) effects. Methods: Retrospective cohort study conducted at a tertiary care academic medical center. Patients who received PCC to reverse the effects of apixaban or rivaroxaban were eligible. Subjects in the fixed-dose group (5000 units or 2000 units) were compared to weight-based PCC (50 units/kg). The primary outcome was time between order entry and medication administration. Secondary outcomes included: average PCC dose, postadministration procedures, achieved hemostasis, 30-day mortality, hospital length of stay, and adverse drug events. Results: 72 patients received fixed-dose PCC and 101 received weight-based PCC. Median time between order entry and administration was 4.5 min shorter in the fixed-dose group compared to weight-based (34.5 vs 39 min, P = .10). In patients who received fixed-dose, 79.2% achieved hemostasis versus 71.3% in the weight-based group (RR = 1.11, 95% CI = 0.94-1.32). There was no difference in the number of subsequent hemorrhage-related surgeries (29.2% vs 36.7%, RR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.51-1.24) or mortality rate (26.4% vs 35.6%, RR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.46-1.17). There were zero adverse drug events reported. Rates of thrombosis were 2.8% and < 1% ( P = .57) in the fixed and weight-based groups, respectively. Conclusion and Relevance: The fixed-dosing strategy did not reduce time to PCC administration nor impact hemostasis or mortality. These data support that the fixed-dosing method is a viable option.
MSD-based transient fluid model of liquid circular angular accelerometer for vibration-induced error analysis
Authors: Wang Meiling , Wang Simai , Shen Kai , Ning Ke
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the errors induced by linear vibration in the fluidic system of liquid circular angular accelerometers (LCAAs). A two-dimensional mass-spring-damper model is proposed to analyze the pressure difference between both sides of LCAA transducer subjected to linear vibration in both transient and steady states, where the compressibility of fluid is taken into account. The complex flow patterns of fluid are simplified to the positional changes of fluid particles. Springs and dampers are utilized to simulate the forces inside the fluid and between the fluid and the tube wall. Simulations are carried out based on the linear acceleration step excitation to explore the influence of model parameters, LCAA structure parameters and fluid parameters. The proposed model is validated by comparing the characteristics of the simulated pressure difference with their corresponding theoretical values, and is further verified by the comparison with the results from computational fluid dynamics method. Furthermore, the pressure difference under linear acceleration excitations in various forms is analyzed. The results indicate that the abrupt changes in linear acceleration are the primary cause of pressure difference oscillation, and the compressibility of fluid leads to increased pressure difference.
Advancements in the use of nanopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment
Authors: Bennani Ismail , Cherif Chefchaouni Ali , Hafidi Youssef , Moukafih Badreddine , El Marrakchi Soufiane , Bandadi Fatima-Zahra , Rahali Younes , El Kartouti Abdeslam
Published: May 2024

Objective

Advances in nanotechnology make it possible to specifically target therapies to cancer cells and neoplasms, guide the surgical resection of tumors, and optimize the effectiveness of radiological treatments. This research article provides a concise synthesis of current knowledge in the field of galenic pharmacy focused on targeted drug delivery in oncology. This research article synthesizes current knowledge in galenic pharmacy, focusing on targeted drug delivery in oncology and reviewing recent advancements in nanopharmaceuticals for cancer treatment.

Data source

The data for this review are derived from a comprehensive analysis of the most cited scientific literature (Pubmed). Recent studies, clinical trials, and technological breakthroughs related to nanopharmaceuticals have been rigorously examined. This diverse source ensures a comprehensive representation of the latest developments in the field.

Summary of data

The results highlight the emergence of nanopharmaceuticals as a promising approach to cancer treatment. The most common in oncology remain liposomes, nanopolymers, and nanocrystals. From a galenic point of view, these three forms offer a wide range of improvements compared to conventional forms such as improvement in solubility as well as stability. The same observation is in the clinic where treatment response rates are significantly improved. The most advantageous form will depend on the specific characteristics of each patient and each type of cancer. The precise design of nanocarriers allows for targeted drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while reducing side effects. Concrete examples of clinical applications are presented, illustrating the practical potential of these advancements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this review provides a holistic overview of recent developments in galenic pharmacy for targeted drug delivery in oncology. The stability of nanocarriers is a crucial challenge because it conditions the effectiveness and safety of the drugs transported. Environmental and biological variations encountered in the body can compromise this stability, jeopardizing the therapeutic effectiveness and safety of treatments. Likewise, personalized approaches are essential to address interindividual variations in treatment response, as well as patients’ pharmacogenomic profiles, in order to optimize therapeutic effectiveness and minimize adverse effects.
Environmental Exposures and Risks During Pregnancy
Authors: Schlein Sarah M. , Reno Elaine M. , Coffey Christanne H. , Casper Leslie M. , Klein David A. , Claypool Megan S. , Wiitala Ellen L. , Keyes Linda E.
Published: May 2024

The Women in Wilderness Medicine Research Committee of the Wilderness Medical Society conducted a narrative review to address considerations for pregnant individuals in wilderness environments. There is limited evidence behind many opinion-based recommendations on the safety of various environmental exposures in pregnancy. The authors reviewed the literature for the best available evidence, including observational studies, case series, limited controlled trials, and extrapolation from physiological data, as well as evaluating expert consensus statements. The benefits of exposure to natural environments include better pregnancy outcomes and improved maternal mental and physical health. Risks are similar to nonpregnant individuals with the added risks associated with maternal-fetal physiology in wilderness environments and difficulties of evacuation. This narrative review discusses pregnancy-specific concerns in extreme environments, including high altitude, hypothermia, hyperthermia, lightning strikes, envenomations, and common outdoor exposures.