bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coherence between theory and policy in Nudge and Boost: Is it relevant for evidence-based policy-making?
Authors: Truijens Daphne
Published: May 2022

Behavioral policies Nudge and Boost are often advocated as good candidates for evidence-based policy. Nudges present or “frame” options in a way that trigger people’s decision-making flaws and steer into the direction of better choices. Nudge aims to do this without changing the options themselves. Boosts also present choices in alternative ways without changing options. However, rather than steering, Boosts are aimed to increase people’s competences. Nudge and Boost originated in extensive research programs: the “heuristics-and-biases program” and the “fast-and-frugal heuristics program,” respectively. How exactly do Nudge and Boost policies relate to the theories they originated from in the first place? Grüne-Yanoff and Hertwig labeled this a question of “theory-policy coherence” and propose to use it for determining the evidence-base of Nudge and Boost. I explore the question: “In how far is theory-policy coherence in Nudge and Boost relevant for evidence-based policymaking?.” I argue that the implications of (weaker or stronger) theory-policy coherence are relevant in two ways. First, Grüne-Yanoff and Hertwig show that theory-policy coherence between Nudge and Boost and the research programs is not as strong as often assumed. It is crucial for the evidence-based policymaker to realize this. Assuming theory-policy coherence while it does not exist or is weaker than assumed can lead to an incorrect assessment of evidence. Ultimately it can even lead to adoption of policies on false grounds. Second, the concept of theory-policy coherence may assist the policymaker in the search and evaluation of (mechanistic) evidence. However, in order to do so, it is important to consider the limitations of theory-policy coherence. It can neither be employed as the (sole) criterion with which to determine how well-grounded a policy is in theory, nor be the (sole) basis for making comparative evaluations between policies.
A Multilevel Person-Centered Perspective on the Role of Job Demands and Resources for Employees’ Job Engagement and Burnout Profiles
Authors: Gillet Nicolas , Morin Alexandre J. S. , Blais Ann-Renée
Published: May 2022

The present study examined the configurations, or profiles, taken by distinct global and specific facets of job engagement and burnout (by relying on a bifactor operationalization of these constructs) among a nationally representative sample of Canadian Defence employees ( n = 13,088; nested within 65 work units). The present study also adopted a multilevel perspective to investigate the role of job demands (work overload and role ambiguity), as well as individual (psychological empowerment), workgroup (interpersonal justice), supervisor (transformational leadership), and organizational (organizational support) resources in the prediction of profile membership. Latent profile analyses revealed five profiles of employees: Burned-Out/Disengaged (7.13%) , Burned-Out/Involved (12.13%), Engaged (18.14%), Engaged/Exhausted (15.50%), and Normative (47.10%). The highest turnover intentions were observed in the Burned-Out/Disengaged profile, and the lowest in the Engaged profile. Employees’ perceptions of job demands and resources were also associated with profile membership across both levels, although the effects of psychological empowerment were more pronounced than the effects of job demands and resources related to the workgroup, supervisor, and organization. Individual-level effects were also more pronounced than effects occurring at the work unit level, where shared perceptions of work overload and organizational support proved to be the key shared drivers of profile membership.
The Effect of Progressive Lateral Column Lengthening in a Novel Stage II-B Flatfoot Cadaveric Model Evaluated Using Software-Guided Radiographic Measurements of Foot Alignment
Authors: Femino John E. , Kern Andrew , Schumer Ross , Anthony Christopher , Kruse Adam J. , Goetz Jessica
Published: May 2022

Background:

This work used software-guided radiographic measurement to assess the effects of progressive lateral column lengthening (LCL) on restoring alignment in a novel cadaveric model of stage II-B flatfoot deformity.

Methods:

A stage II-B flatfoot was created in 8 cadaveric specimens by transecting the spring ligament complex, anterior deltoid, and interosseous talocalcaneal and cervical ligaments. Weightbearing computed tomographic (WBCT) scans were performed with specimens under 450 N of compressive load in the intact, flat, and 6-, 8-, and 10-mm lateral column–lengthening conditions. Custom software-guided radiographic measurements of the lateral talo–first metatarsal (Meary) angle, anteroposterior talo–first metatarsal angle, naviculocuneiform overlap, and 2 new measures (plantar fascia [PF] distance and angle) were recorded on digitally reconstructed radiographs. Four anonymized analysts performed measurements twice. Intra- and interobserver agreement was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results:

Six-millimeter LCL restored alignment closest to the intact foot in this new cadaveric model, whereas 10-mm lengthening tended toward overcorrection. The PF line displaced laterally in the flatfoot condition, and LCL restored the PF line to a location beneath the talonavicular joint. Interobserver agreement was excellent for PF distance (ICC = 0.99) and naviculocuboid overlap (ICC = 0.91), good for Meary angle (ICC = 0.81) and PF angle (ICC = 0.69), and acceptable for the talonavicular coverage angle (ICC = 0.65).

Conclusion:

In this stage II-B cadaveric flatfoot model, cervical ligament transection was essential to create deformity after the medial hindfoot ligaments were transected. Software-guided radiographic measurement proved reliable; standardized implementation should improve comparability between studies of flatfoot deformity. The novel PF distance performed most consistently (ICC = 0.99) and warrants further study. With this model, we found that a 6-mm LCL restored alignment closest to the intact foot, whereas 10-mm lengthening tended toward overcorrection.

Clinical Relevance:

Future joint-sparing flatfoot corrections may consider using a relatively small LCL combined with other bony and/or anatomic ligament/tendon reconstructions.
Seismic reliability analysis of building structures using subset simulation coupled with deep learning-based surrogate model
Authors: Nguyen Truong-Thang , Ha Manh-Hung , Nguyen Trong-Phu , Dang Viet-Hung
Published: May 2022

The reliability of building structures subjected to ground motion is a time-consuming, complex, and iterative computation problem involving multidiscipline theories such as probability theory, reliability theory, and dynamic structural analysis. In order to address this challenge, this study proposes a highly efficient approach based on the subset simulation and a deep learning-based surrogate model. The subset simulation is an efficient sampling strategy that significantly diminishes the number of samples to compute when determining the failure probability, especially for very small ones. On the other hand, the surrogate model based on a deep learning algorithm can deliver equivalently accurate structures’ responses compared to the well-known finite element method with markedly smaller time complexity, given appropriate available training data. The efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed approach are demonstrated in detail through three case studies with increasing complexity: a 1-DoF problem, a 2D frame, and a 3D structure based on experimental data showing a reduction up to two orders of magnitude in time complexity compared to the Monte Carlo simulation using finite element method.
Characterising Australians who have high levels of anger towards Islam and Muslims
Authors: Walding Shannon , Ewart Jacqui
Published: May 2022

This article reveals the characteristics and demographics of non-Muslim Australians who express levels of anger towards Muslims and Islam. Using data from a 2018 national social survey of a random, stratified sample of Australians, we identify key demographic characteristics amongst those expressing above-average degrees of anger towards Muslims and the religion of Islam, separately. We identify the proportion of different typologies of people who hold anger towards Islam and Muslims. We aim to establish which combinations of demographic and personal characteristics are most strongly associated with the expression of anger so that policy and interventions targeted at reducing this emotion might be effectively directed. We draw on the literature about Muslimophobia and Islamophobia, along with key studies that have examined attitudes towards Islam and Muslims in Australia and elsewhere. Our findings are relevant to organisations and government bodies in Australia, with implications for policy and social cohesion programs.
Surgical and oncological outcomes of D1 versus D2 gastrectomy among elderly patients treated for gastric cancer
Authors: Back Johan , Sallinen Ville , Kokkola Arto , Puolakkainen Pauli
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy is considered standard treatment in gastric cancer (GC). Among Western patients, morbidity and mortality seem to increase in D2 relative to D1 lymphadenectomy. As elderly patients with co-morbidities are more prone to possible complications, it is unclear whether they benefit from D2 lymphadenectomy. This study aims to compare the short- and long-term results of D1 and D2 lymphadenectomy in elderly patients undergoing gastrectomy for GC.

Methods:

All elderly (⩾75 years) patients undergoing gastrectomy with curative intent for GC during 2000–2015 were included and grouped according to the level of lymph node dissection into the D1 or D2 group. Short-term surgical outcome included the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) and 30-day mortality. Long-term outcomes comprised overall survival (OS), disease-specific survival (DSS), and disease-free survival (DFS). Cox regression was used in multivariable analyses.

Results:

In total, 99 elderly patients were included in the study (51 in D1 group, 48 in D2 group). The median follow-up was 32.5 months. Patients in the D1 group were older and had a higher American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) score. Both groups had similar burden of postoperative complications (CCI 20.9 versus 22.6, p = 0.26, respectively) and 90-day mortality (2% for both groups). The OS, DSS, and DFS were similar between groups. Multivariable analysis adjusted for potential confounders detected no difference in the survival between the D1 and D2 groups.

Conclusions:

Gastrectomy with D2 lymphadenectomy can be performed with low postoperative morbidity and mortality suggesting its use also in the elderly. Long-term outcomes seem similar but need further studies.
Experimental investigation of dynamic characteristics of material applied to reduced scale physical models in the elastic state
Authors: Cavalheiro Jennifer DM , Machado Roberto D , Cunico Marlon WM
Published: May 2022

Dynamic and vibration difficulties have begun to play a major part in structural analysis as a result of the increasing complexity and slimness of bridges. Nonetheless, creating numerical models that accurately capture the true behaviour of structures remains a challenge. It can be caused by the lack of references that characterise the dynamic and vibration properties of the material. For that reason, the main goal of this work is to investigate experimental methods to characterise materials that are commonly used to build reduced scale physical models. We tested four types of materials in order to achieve this goal, as well as evaluating the major influence of reinforcement on the material’s elastic stiffness. That presents a novel approach to support engineers to suitably select scaled physical models materials. In addition to identifying the basic static properties of the studied materials, material damping and material relaxation were also characterised through the following: General logarithmic decrement method, Half-power band, modal damping and random decrement. In order to evaluate the material damping, we analysed the acceleration and displacement of cantilever specimens using a data acquisition module. As a result, the confidence level of each approach in contrast to the experimental data could be determined. Finally, the material behaviour of each material was examined in order to determine the best material for producing reduced scaled models of reinforced concrete bridges. As a result, it was easy to see that modal damping indicates higher confidence, whereas logarithmic decrement indicates lower confidence. It is also important to keep in mind that most methods for determining damping ratios are based on viscous damping. As a result, non-linear regression and modal damping were deemed the best methods for characterising vibration and dynamic responses of materials.
Concurrent relations between child-directed speech and children’s language skills in low-income households
Authors: Dore Rebecca A , Liu Xingfeiyue , Chaparro-Moreno Leydi Johana , Justice Laura M
Published: May 2022

This study examined the dimensionality of caregivers’ child-directed talk and the association of child directed talk and children’s language skills at age of 3 years in a sample of 63 low-SES dyads in low-SES homes. Exploratory factor analysis identified that caregivers’ child directed talk is characterized by two dimensions: quantity and complexity. The quantity factor consisted of utterances per minute, total number of words, and type-token ratio, whereas the complexity factor included mean length of utterance and the percentage of complex utterances. After controlling for covariates (e.g. child age, race, maternal education, and language used at home), CDT complexity was significantly related to children’s receptive and expressive language skills, however, this association was not significant for CDT quantity. These results have important implications for intervention development.
A distributed scheme for energy-efficient event-based target recognition using Internet of Multimedia Things
Authors: Alsabhan Manal , Soudani Adel , Almusallam Manan
Published: May 2022

The availability of low-cost embedded devices for multimedia sensing has encouraged their integration with low-power wireless sensors to create systems that enable advanced services and applications referred to as the Internet of Multimedia Things. Image-based sensing applications are challenged by energy efficiency and resource availability. Mainly, image sensing and transmission in Internet of Multimedia Things severely deplete the sensor energy and overflow the network bandwidth with redundant data. Some solutions presented in the literature, such as image compression, do not efficiently solve this problem because of the algorithms’ computational complexities. Thus, detecting the event of interest locally before the communication using shape-based descriptors would avoid useless data transmission and would extend the network lifetime. In this article, we propose a new approach of distributed event-based sensing scheme over a set of nodes forming a processing cluster to balance the processing load. This approach is intended to reduce per-node energy consumption in one sensing cycle. The conducted experiments show that our novel method based on the general Fourier descriptor decreases the energy consumption in the camera node to only 2.4 mJ, which corresponds to 75.32% of energy-saving compared to the centralized approach, promising to prolong the network lifetime significantly. In addition, the scheme achieved more than 95% accuracy in target recognition.
Socioeconomic Disparities in Surgical Care for Congenital Hand Differences
Authors: Kalmar Christopher L. , Drolet Brian C.
Published: May 2022

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of socioeconomic factors on access to congenital hand surgery care, hospital admission charges, and analyze these geographic trends across regions of the country.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort study was conducted of congenital hand surgery performed in the United States from 2010 through 2020 using the Pediatric Health Information System. Multivariate regression was used to analyze the impact of socioeconomic factors.

Results:

During the study interval, 5531 pediatric patients underwent corrective surgery for congenital hand differences, including syndactyly repair (n = 2439), polydactyly repair (n = 2826), and pollicization (n = 266). Patients underwent surgery at significantly earlier age when treated at above-median case volume hospitals ( P < .001). Patients with above-median income ( P < .001), non-white race ( P < .001), commercial insurance ( P < .001), living in an urban community ( P < .001), and not living in an underserved area ( P < .001) were more likely to be treated at high-volume hospitals. Nearly half of patients chose to seek care at a distant hospital rather than the one locally available (49.5%, n = 1172). Of those choosing a distant hospital, most patients chose a higher-volume facility (80.9%, n = 948 of 1172). On multivariate regression, white patients were significantly more likely to choose a more distant, higher-volume hospital ( P < .001).

Conclusions:

Socioeconomic and geographic factors significantly contribute to disparate access to congenital hand surgery across the country. Patients with higher socioeconomic status are more likely to be treated at high-volume hospitals. Treatment at hospitals with higher case volume is associated with earlier age at surgery and decreased hospital admission charges.
The Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program: An Invited Review
Authors: Webster Collin A.
Published: May 2022

Physical inactivity is a global challenge that necessitates early intervention during childhood. Schools are positioned to make a significant impact on children’s current and future physical activity behavior, but numerous barriers hinder the implementation and sustainability of school-based physical activity opportunities. The purpose of this invited article is to provide an overview of the comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP) as a concept, framework, and promising approach to institutionalizing physical activity within the school environment. Despite the availability of numerous published reviews on the topic, a broad, up-to-date panorama of the CSPAP literature that encompasses and consolidates historical, conceptual, empirical, and practical perspectives is currently lacking. Contained within this article is an explanation of the public health context that undergirds the CSPAP concept, a historical perspective of the concept’s origins and evolution, examples of CSPAP research, recommendations for advancing the knowledge base, and evidence-informed frameworks and principles for professional practice.
Transcriptome analysis reveals dysregulation of inflammatory and neuronal function in dorsal root ganglion of paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy rats
Authors: Sun Wuping , Yang Shaomin , Wu Songbin , Ba Xiyuan , Xiong Donglin , Xiao Lizu , Hao Yue
Published: May 2022

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is the most common side-effect of anti-cancer therapy. To date, there are no clinically effective analgesics that could prevent and treat CIPN. However, the exact pathogenesis of CIPN is still unclear. In the present study, we use the paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) model, aiming to better understand the transcriptomic level of the Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons in rats with PIPN. mRNA from each DRG sample was reverse transcribed to cDNA and sequenced using next-generation high throughput sequencing technology. Quantitative RT-PCR verification was used to confirm the identified Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the DRG of PIPN rats. RNAseq results have identified 384 DEGs (adjusted P-value < 0.05; fold change ≥ 2) in the DRG of rats 14 days after paclitaxel injection in total, including 97 up-regulated genes, and 287 down-regulated genes. GO analysis revealed that these DEGs were majorly involved in neuropeptide activity, chemokine receptor activity, defense response, and inflammatory response. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes analysis showed that neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction were involved in sensory neurons of rats with PIPN. Besides, comparison analysis identified that 11 DEGs in the PIPN model are shared with either inflammatory pain (Ces1d, Cfd, Retn, and Fam150b) or neuropathic pain (Atf3, Csrp3, Ecel1, Gal, Sprr1a, Tgm1, and Vip). Quantitative RT-PCR results also confirmed the validation of the RNAseq data. These results suggested that neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction are majorly involved in sensory neurons of rats with PIPN. Immune, inflammatory responses and neuron functional changes are the major pathogenesis of PIPN. Paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy has shared characteristics with both inflammatory pain and neuropathic pain.
The demands of training and match-play on elite and highly trained junior tennis players: A systematic review
Authors: Fleming James Andrew , Field Adam , Lui Steve , Naughton Robert Joseph , Harper Liam David
Published: May 2022

Objective

Talented junior tennis players are exposed to high training loads and congested competition schedules. Understanding the demands of training and competition is important to prescribe training and recovery programmes that optimise performance. The purpose of this study was to systematically review and appraise the literature available on training and match-play demands in an elite and highly trained junior tennis population to inform practice and future research opportunities.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, SPORTDiscus and Scopus databases was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines in November 2021. The following keywords were used: ‘tennis’, ‘match-play’, ‘match’, ‘training’, ‘drill’, ‘practice’, ‘coaching’, ‘session’, ‘competition’ and ‘tournament’. Filters were applied to retrieve articles conducted on junior tennis players.

Results

The search returned an initial 879 articles. Following the screening process, 21 articles were accepted for analysis. Articles were organised into four themes: training demands, match-play, court surface and recovery. Results highlighted that training sessions failed to induce the same physiological and perceptual demands imposed by tournament match-play. Rallies were 22% longer on clay courts, and associated with increased playing time, heart rate, blood lactate and ratings of perceived exertion compared with hard court surfaces. Competing in multiple matches per day negatively impacted performance indices including jumping, sprinting and change of direction. Increased ratings of muscle soreness, fatigue and pain were also reported.

Conclusion

Additional work is warranted to substantiate these findings and determine the efficacy of current training strategies and competition demands imposed on elite and highly trained junior tennis players.
Effects of low molecular weight heparin and fondaparinux on mortality, hemorrhagic and thrombotic complications in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Fragkou Paraskevi C. , Palaiodimou Lina , Stefanou Maria Ioanna , Katsanos Aristeidis H. , Lambadiari Vaia , Paraskevis Dimitrios , Andreadou Elisabeth , Dimopoulou Dimitra , Zompola Christina , Ferentinos Panagiotis , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros I. , Kotanidou Anastasia , Sfikakis Petros P. , Tsiodras Sotirios , Tsivgoulis Georgios
Published: May 2022

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with increased thrombosis prevalence. However, there are insufficient data supporting the appropriate anticoagulation dose in COVID-19.

Objective:

We aim to systematically assess the currently available data regarding the effects of different dosing regimens of low molecular weight heparin and/or fondaparinux (LMWH/F) on mortality risk as well as the risk of arterial/venous thrombotic events and hemorrhagic complications in confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Design:

We conducted a living systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of different LMWH/F doses on mortality, thrombotic and hemorrhagic events in COVID-19 patients.

Data Sources and Methods:

MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Cochrane COVID-19 study register, European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Database, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched to detect observational cohort studies and randomized-controlled clinical trials (RCTs) comparing difference doses of LMWH/F among confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Results:

Thirty-one eligible studies (6 RCTs and 25 cohort studies) with 11,430 hospitalized patients were included. No association was found between LMWH/F and mortality during the following comparisons: (1) no LMWH/F versus any LMWH/F; (2) prophylactic versus higher than prophylactic LMWH/F; (3) prophylactic versus therapeutic LMWH/F; (4) intermediate versus therapeutic LMWH/F; and (5) lower than therapeutic versus therapeutic LMWH/F. Mortality was higher in patients receiving prophylactic versus intermediate LMWH/F (OR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.19–3.39). However, this effect was mostly driven by observational data. No associations were detected between the intensity of LMWH/F and the risk of thrombotic and hemorrhagic events, except the lower risk for hemorrhage in patients on prophylactic compared to higher LMWH/F doses.

Conclusion:

The risk for all-cause mortality was higher in patients receiving prophylactic LMWH/F compared to those on an intermediate dose of LMWH/F, based on observational data. These results should be interpreted in light of the moderate quality and heterogeneity of the included studies.

Registration:

The study protocol has been registered in the International Prospective Register of Ongoing Systematic Reviews PROSPERO (Registration number: CRD42021229771).
Deformation and failure of thin domed-scored metallic disc under impulsive loading
Authors: Kanakadandi Gopinath , Narayanamurthy Vijayabaskar , Rao Y V Daseswara
Published: May 2022

This paper presents the structural deformation and failure of a thin domed-scored metallic disc (SMD) applied at the bottom of a pressurized rocket silo which needs to withstand a storage pressure and undergo instantaneous rupture under an impulsive pressure. Initially, the large deformation and rupture of a flat-thin SMD subjected to a pressure impulse is numerically studied and validated with experimental results. Subsequently, the behavior of a domed-thin SMD is investigated for the aforementioned loadings in the rocket silo. The influence of loading rates [Formula: see text], score depth and width-to-disc thickness ratio ( t 1/ t and b/ t), diameter-to-disc thickness ratio ( D/ t), dome height-to-disc diameter ratio ( H/ D), score length-to-disc radius ratio ( l/ R), score pattern, and score geometry on the deformation and failure response of the domed-thin SMD is investigated. The studies demonstrate that (1) the failure initiation point shifts from 1/4th radius to the disc center for loading rates > 10 MPa/s; (2) under impulse loading, the responses are (i) sensitive to the loading rates up to 100 MPa/s, (ii) sensitive to score’s depth, only up to half the disc thickness and insensitive to score’s width, (iii) unaffected for number of scores N > 6, (iv) stabilized for l/R > 0.4, and (vii) almost the same for semi-circular, rectangular and triangular score geometries; (3) the failure do not initiate and propagate along all scores for N > 10 in the disc; and (4) behavior of the domed SMD approaches to that of a spherical dome for H/D > 0.3.
Diversifying the compact city: A renewed agenda for geographical research
Authors: Haarstad Håvard , Kjærås Kristin , Røe Per Gunnar , Tveiten Kristian
Published: May 2022

The compact city has become part of the policy orthodoxy in dealing with climate change and other sustainability challenges, and scholars from a diverse set of disciplines have informed this policy through empirical research. In this paper, we argue that attuning research in this field to key perspectives and concepts in human geography and critical urban studies can help ‘diversify’ understandings of compact urbanism in ways that advance social and ecological justice. We show that the compact city has been conceived primarily through the lens of territorially bounded physical urban form, and thereby many of its social, political, and ecological implications are overlooked. Based on this critique, we propose a renewed agenda for compact urbanism that rearticulates it as a strategy for sustainable transformation by bridging socio-material and relational approaches and engaging the human geographical toolbox. Three entry points for this agenda are highlighted: (1) commoning the compact city; (2) metabolism of compact cities; and (3) antagonism in the compact city.
Role of decentralized clinical trials in cancer drug development: Results from a survey of oncologists and patients
Authors: de las Heras Begoña , Daehnke Adam , Saini Kamal S , Harris Melissa , Morrison Kenneth , Aguilo Ariel , Chico Isagani , Vidal Laura , Marcus Robin
Published: May 2022

As a result of the unprecedented challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic on enrollment to cancer clinical trials, there has been an urgency to identify and incorporate new solutions to mitigate these difficulties. The concept of decentralized or hybrid clinical trials has rapidly gained currency, given that it aims to reduce patient burden, increase patient enrollment and retention, and preserve quality of life, while also increasing the efficiency of trial logistics. Therefore, the clinical trial environment is moving toward remote collection and assessment of data, transitioning from the classic site-centric model to one that is more patient-centric.
Same-Same, But Not: Comparing Aspects of Cultures in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand
Authors: Terblanché-Greeff Aïda C.
Published: May 2022

Oftentimes nations, societies, or communities are categorized based on cultural values, such as time orientation and social self-construal. Here, time orientation is represented by the dimensions of monochronism and polychronism; and social self-construal as individualism and collectivism. In some cases, it has been argued that individualism is complementary to the traits of monochronism, and collectivism is complementary to that of polychronism. Consequently, cultural communities have often been grouped as monochronic and individualistic (MONO+INDV), or polychronic and collectivistic (POLY+COLL), with little focus being allocated to unique cultural nuances. This paper represents cross-cultural philosophy, where cultural values are compared through the strategies of philosophical conceptual analysis and interpretive philosophical reflection. Specifically, this paper accentuates that focus should be allocated to cultural nuances of POLY+COLL cultures instead of grouping such cultures under one blanket conceptualization. Attention is allocated to three POLY+COLL cultures that are similar in some aspects but different in others. The cultures that receive such attention is to be found in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. The purpose is thus threefold. First, it introduces the categories of cultural values; second, it presents three different POLY+COLL cultures; and lastly, the three seemingly similar POLY+COLL cultures are placed in comparison—based on themes identified in the discussion—to facilitate better differentiation. As a result, it is elucidated that attention must be allocated to cultural nuances when conducting cross-cultural studies as this is identified as a gap in the knowledge-base.
Belief Factors Associated With Employees’ Intention to Evacuate During a Fire Alarm
Authors: Le Aurora B. , Middlestadt Susan E. , Lin Hsien-Chang , Docherty Carrie L. , Smith Todd D.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Nonresidential fires and resultant injuries and deaths have been on the rise the last decade in the United States. Although evacuation is a primary prevention method, people in the workplace still fail to evacuate when they hear a fire alarm. The current formative study applied the Reasoned Action Approach (RAA) to identify belief factors associated with university employees’ intention evacuate.

Methods:

Data were collected from employees at a large public university ( N = 490) through an online survey. Multiple linear regression quantified the relative contribution of six RAA constructs that represent belief factors underlying employees’ intention to leave the office building immediately the next time they hear a fire alarm.

Findings:

Nearly 60% of the variation in employees’ intention to leave was predicted from the belief factors, adjusted R2 = 0.598, F(17, 472) = 43.80, p < .001. Controlling for demographic characteristics, five of the six RAA global constructs showed statistically significant independent associations with intention: instrumental attitude ( B = .272, SE = .026, p < .001), experiential attitude ( B = −.073, SE = .026, p = .024), injunctive norm ( B = .210, SE = .075, p < .001), descriptive norm ( B = .347, SE = .070, p < .001), and capacity ( B = .178, SE = .077, p < .001).

Conclusions/Applications to Practice:

These findings show the RAA can be successfully applied to provide employees’ perspective on safety decisions like evacuation. The belief factors’ relative contributions can help safety professionals prioritize interventions to facilitate leaving immediately. Here the high weights for the two normative factors suggest addressing employees’ descriptive beliefs that others like them leave and their injunctive beliefs that significant others, like supervisors and safety personnel, approve of their leaving.
Body Image and Cosmesis after Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy versus Conventional Open Microdiscectomy for Sciatica
Authors: Gadjradj Pravesh S. , Depauw Paul R. , Schutte Pieter J. , Vreeling Arnold W. , Harhangi Biswadjiet S.
Published: May 2022

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial

Objective

Percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) was introduced as a less invasive procedure to treat sciatica. Even though the PTED has a small scar size, it is unknown if PTED also leads to better scar-related patient-reported outcomes. Therefore, we aimed to compare scar-related outcomes between patients undergoing PTED vs open microdiscectomy.

Methods

Patients with at least 6 weeks of radiating leg pain were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to PTED or open microdiscectomy. Scar-related patient-reported outcomes were measured using the Body Image Score (BIS), Cosmesis Scale (CS) and a 0-10 numeric rating scale (NRS) on scar esthetic.

Results

Of the 530 included patients, 286 patients underwent PTED and 244 underwent open microdiscectomy as allocated. At 12 months of follow-up, 95% of the patients had data available. At 12 months, the BIS was 6.2 ± 1.7 in the PTED-group and 6.6 ± 1.9 in the open microdiscectomy group (between-group difference .4, 95% CI .2 to .7). CS was 21.3 ± 3.0 in the PTED-group and 18.6 ± 3.4 in the open microdiscectomy group (between-group difference −2.7, 95% CI −3.1 to −2.3). Average NRS for scar esthetic was 9.2 ± 1.3 and 7.8 ± 1.6 in the PTED and open microdiscectomy groups, respectively (between-group difference −1.4, 95% CI −1.6 to −1.2)

Conclusions

PTED leads to a higher self-rated scar esthetic as compared to open microdiscectomy, while self-reported body image seems to be comparable between both groups. Therefore, from an esthetic point, PTED seems to be the preferred technique to treat sciatica.
A Copper nanoparticles-based polymeric spray coating: Nanoshield against Sars-Cov-2
Authors: Foffa Ilenia , Losi Paola , Quaranta Paola , Cara Alice , Al Kayal Tamer , D’Acunto Mario , Presciuttini Gianluca , Pistello Mauro , Soldani Giorgio
Published: May 2022

Face masks are an effective protection tool to prevent bacterial and viral transmission. However, commercial face masks contain filters made of materials that are not capable of inactivating either SARS-CoV-2. In this regard, we report the development of an antiviral coating of polyurethane and Copper nanoparticles on a face mask filter fabricated with a spray technology that is capable of inactivating more than 99% of SARS-CoV-2 particles in 30 min of contact.
Prevalence of stroke, associated risk factors and stroke related physical, mental, and economic burden in the Republic of Georgia
Authors: Akhvlediani Tamar , Gelenidze Nana , Janelidze Tamar , Gudadze Tamar , Pkhakadze Irine , Webb Alastair , Katsarava Zaza
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

We investigated the prevalence, risk factors and physical, mental, and economic consequences of ischemic Janelidze and hemorrhagic stroke in the population of the Republic of Georgia.

Materials and Methods:

A population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 3036 adults residing in the Imereti Region of Georgia, selected using a multistage, probability proportionate-to-size, cluster sampling technique. Data were collected by medical students, using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Diagnosis of stroke was confirmed by neurologists based on clinical examination and corroborated by documental evidence.

Results:

Of the targeted 3036 subjects, 2811 (92.6%) participated, of whom 1223 (43.5%) were women. Mean age of the sample was 49.7 (SD 15.2) years. The overall prevalence of stroke was 8.9%, the prevalence of ischemic stroke − 7.8% (95% CI 6.9–8.9) and of hemorrhagic stroke − 0.7% (95% CI 0.4–1.0). Ischemic stroke was more prevalent in males, while hemorrhagic stroke was more prevalent in females. Age, smoking, hypertension, and diabetes were associated with stroke. Stroke victims were young, many of them in the fifth decade of life. Sixty-five percent of them had a modified Rankin scale of three or greater, 25% were depressed, and 85% suffered cognitive impairment.

Discussion:

Stroke affected people and their families, experiencing a significant economic burden due to loss of the income and increase in out-of-pocket payment for post-stroke medical care.

Conclusion:

The stroke prevalence in the Republic of Georgia is higher than in Europe and is associated with a significant physical, mental, and economic burden.
Massive Spontaneous Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage in a Patient With Type 1 Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Lymphoplasmacytic Lymphoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Cruz-Pimentel Miguel , Mehraban Far Parsa , Brent Michael H. , Yan Peng
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

This work reports a rare case of spontaneous suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SSCH) and summarizes the literature on its treatment options and outcomes.

Methods:

A case report and comprehensive literature review are presented on the medical and surgical management of SSCH on PubMed from 1998 to 2021.

Results:

The literature search revealed 58 studies, 33 of which included 52 eyes of 47 patients. Surgical treatment typically consisted of choroidal drainage with posterior sclerotomies combined with pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil placement. Medical therapy involved intraocular pressure control with laser peripheral iridotomy and topical, oral, and intravenous medication.

Conclusions:

In cases of SSCH, conservative management and a prompt workup should be initiated to identify the cause before proceeding with surgery. If the initial workup does not reveal a cause, medical and surgical treatments are both viable and the decision is at the discretion of the treating physician.
The Effects of Acupressure in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting Related to Chemotherapy in Children: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Altuntaş Duygu , Dalgiç Ayşegül İşler
Published: May 2022

Background: Acupressure is known to be a nursing intervention used to prevent chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in children. Methods: This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of manual and wristband acupressure in the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in children. This double-blinded and placebo-controlled study was conducted with 44 children aged between 5 and 18 years receiving chemotherapy in a university hospital's pediatric oncology clinic. Children were randomized into groups using a 2 × 2 factorial design: (a) The child who was given manual acupressure before the first chemotherapy was given placebo manual acupressure before the next chemotherapy; (b) the same child who was administered wristband acupressure before the first chemotherapy was administered placebo wristband acupressure before the next chemotherapy. After all interventions, the severity and number of episodes of nausea and vomiting and additional antiemetic needs in the children were monitored for 24 h. Results: In both groups, the severity and number of nausea and vomiting were lower according to their own placebo groups. Manual and wristband acupressure were effective in reducing the severity and number of nausea and vomiting, but manual acupressure was more effective in reducing the severity and number of nausea and vomiting in comparison to wristband acupressure ( p < .05). No statistically significant difference was found between the groups regarding additional antiemetic drug use. Discussion: In this study, manual and wristband acupressure were determined to be effective in reducing the severity and number of nausea and vomiting related to chemotherapy.
An LSC-based MRD assay to complement the traditional MFC method for prediction of AML relapse: a prospective study
Authors: Li Si-Qi , Xu Lan-Ping , Wang Yu , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Chen Huan , Chen Yu-Hong , Wang Feng-Rong , Han Wei , Sun Yu-Qian , Yan Chen-Hua , Lv Meng , Tang Fei-Fei , Mo Xiao-Dong , Liu Yan-Rong , Liu Kai-Yan , Chang Ying-Jun , Huang Xiao-Jun
Published: May 2022

Li et al delineate a novel technique for assessing measurable residual disease (MRD) by the assessment of isolated leukemia stem cells (LSCs). They report that assessment of MRD in LSCs provides a better prediction of outcome than standard multiparameter flow cytometry.
Investigation and management of residual sleepiness in CPAP-treated patients with obstructive sleep apnoea: the European view
Authors: Craig Sonya , Pépin Jean-Louis , Randerath Winfried , Caussé Christian , Verbraecken Johan , Asin Jerryll , Barbé Ferran , Bonsignore Maria R.
Published: May 2022

Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is a major symptom of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), defined as the inability to stay awake during the day. Its clinical descriptors remain elusive, and the pathogenesis is complex, with disorders such as insufficient sleep and depression commonly associated. Subjective EDS can be evaluated using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, in which the patient reports the probability of dozing in certain situations; however, its reliability has been challenged. Objective tests such as the multiple sleep latency test or the maintenance of wakefulness test are not commonly used in patients with OSA, since they require nocturnal polysomnography, daytime testing and are expensive. Drugs for EDS are available in the United States but were discontinued in Europe some time ago. For European respiratory physicians, treatment of EDS with medication is new and they may lack experience in pharmacological treatment of EDS, while novel wake-promoting drugs have been recently developed and approved for clinical use in OSA patients in the USA and Europe. This review will discuss 1) the potential prognostic significance of EDS in OSA patients at diagnosis, 2) the prevalence and predictors of residual EDS in treated OSA patients, and 3) the evolution of therapy for EDS specifically for Europe.
Antibiotic resistance in chronic respiratory diseases: from susceptibility testing to the resistome
Authors: Pailhoriès Hélène , Herrmann Jean-Louis , Velo-Suarez Lourdes , Lamoureux Claudie , Beauruelle Clémence , Burgel Pierre-Régis , Héry-Arnaud Geneviève
Published: May 2022

The development of resistome analysis,i.e.the comprehensive analysis of antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs), is enabling a better understanding of the mechanisms of antibiotic-resistance emergence. The respiratory microbiome is a dynamic and interactive network of bacteria, with a set of ARGs that could influence the response to antibiotics. Viruses such as bacteriophages, potential carriers of ARGs, may also form part of this respiratory resistome. Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) such as cystic fibrosis, severe asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and bronchiectasis, managed with long-term antibiotic therapies, lead to multidrug resistance. Antibiotic susceptibility testing provides a partial view of the bacterial response to antibiotics in the complex lung environment. Assessing the ARG network would allow personalised, targeted therapeutic strategies and suitable antibiotic stewardship in CRDs, depending on individual resistome and microbiome signatures. This review summarises the influence of pulmonary antibiotic protocols on the respiratory microbiome, detailing the variable consequences according to antibiotic class and duration of treatment. The different resistome-profiling methods are explained to clarify their respective place in antibiotic-resistance analysis in the lungs. Finally, this review details current knowledge on the respiratory resistome related to therapeutic strategies and provides insight into the application of resistome analysis to counter the emergence of multidrug-resistant respiratory pathogens.
Assessing adherence to inhaled therapies in asthma and the emergence of electronic monitoring devices
Authors: Dhruve Hetal , Jackson David J.
Published: May 2022

Infrequent use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and/or over-reliance of short-acting β-agonists (SABA) are recognised as key contributors to increased morbidity and mortality in asthma. The most frequent measures of ICS adherence and SABA use rely on patient-reported questionnaires or prescription refill records, neither of which are considered sufficiently reliable. Technological advancements in the development of electronic monitoring of inhaler devices allow for monitoring of use, as well as recording of and feedback on inhaler technique for some devices. Most electronic monitoring devices (EMDs) are paired with a smartphone application, allowing patients to set reminders and display both preventer and reliever use over time. This allows identification of intentional and unintentional ICS non-adherence as well as frequency of SABA use. This information assists clinicians in distinguishing difficult-to-control from severe asthma. Although additional evidence is required to assess the impact of EMDs on clinical outcome measures such as exacerbation rate, the introduction of EMDs into the asthma armoury is a significant step forward in asthma care with the potential to improve asthma-related outcomes.