bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Big data security and privacy in healthcare: A systematic review and future research directions
Authors: Al Zaabi Mariam , Alhashmi Saadat M
Published: April 2024

Big data security involves protecting healthcare data from unauthorised use and access and making any changes, while privacy entails ensuring the confidentiality of individual patient information within the datasets. The two are crucial in ensuring that big data is effectively applied for research and personalised care, compromising the sensitivity of healthcare data and medical information. Consequently, as the amount of data in the healthcare sector grows exponentially, securing sensitive data becomes increasingly crucial while effectively utilising big data analytics. The systematic review explores the issues and challenges associated with big data security and privacy in healthcare. Through reference to resource-based view theory, this paper seeks to examine the present state of research in this area, identify gaps in the existing literature, and propose strategies for future research. The search strategy looked at the data between 2013 and 2022 and yielded 93 studies from four databases: Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect and IEEE Xplore. From these studies, 18 papers are reviewed. The findings reveal that while significant progress has been made in securing healthcare data, numerous challenges still need to be considered.

Overall, this review highlights the importance of continued research to ascertain that sensitive healthcare data is kept secure while allowing for the enhanced application of big data analytics. It contributes to the security and privacy problems associated with using big data in healthcare, measures for addressing these challenges, the healthcare value of big data, and foci for future research.
Left ventricular unloading in patients supported with veno-arterial extra corporeal membrane oxygenation; an international EuroELSO survey
Authors: Ezad Saad M , Ryan Matthew , Barrett Nicholas , Camporota Luigi , Swol Justyna , Antonini Marta V , Donker Dirk W , Pappalardo Federico , Kapur Navin K , Rose Louise , Perera Divaka
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) improves end-organ perfusion in cardiogenic shock but may increase afterload, which can limit cardiac recovery. Left ventricular (LV) unloading strategies may aid cardiac recovery and prevent complications of increased afterload. However, there is no consensus on when and which unloading strategy should be used.

Methods

An online survey was distributed worldwide via the EuroELSO newsletter mailing list to describe contemporary international practice and evaluate heterogeneity in strategies for LV unloading.

Results

Of 192 respondents from 43 countries, 53% routinely use mechanical LV unloading, to promote ventricular recovery and/or to prevent complications. Of those that do not routinely unload, 65% cited risk of complications as the reason. The most common indications for unplanned unloading were reduced arterial line pulsatility (68%), pulmonary edema (64%) and LV dilatation (50%). An intra-aortic balloon pump was the most frequently used device for unloading followed by percutaneous left ventricular assist devices. Echocardiography was the most frequently used method to monitor the response to unloading.

Conclusions

Significant variation exists with respect to international practice of ventricular unloading. Further research is required that compares the efficacy of different unloading strategies and a randomized comparison of routine mechanical unloading versus unplanned unloading.
The role of inflammation and antithrombin supplementation on thromboelastographic parameters during veno-venous ECMO for respiratory failure
Authors: Meli Andrea , De Falco Stefano , Novembrino Cristina , Boscolo Anzoletti Massimo , Arcadipane Antonio , Panarello Giovanna , Occhipinti Giovanna , Grasselli Giacomo , Panigada Mauro
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) may act as a driver or propagator of systemic inflammation. In turn, cytokine release can modify thromboelastographic (TEG) tests which are commonly used for anticoagulation monitoring. In this context, antithrombin (AT) supplementation might further modify TEG.

Methods

This is a pre-specified sub-study of the “Randomized Controlled Trial of Antithrombin Supplementation During Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation” study (investigator-initiated, randomized, single-blind, two-arm trial) conducted in two Italian ECMO referral ICUs. Adult patients requiring vv-ECMO for respiratory failure and undergoing unfractioned heparin (UFH) administration were enrolled and randomized whether to receive AT supplementation. Plasma samples for cytokine assay (IL-8, IL-10, IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α and Pro-ADM) and heparinase TEG were collected from every patient before ECMO start, 24 h and 72 h after ECMO start, before ECMO removal, and 7 days after ECMO removal or upon ICU discharge whichever happened first. AT concentration, coagulation and clinical data were collected before ECMO start and at pre-fixed time points.

Results

Thirty-nine patients were enrolled (21 treatments, 18 controls). TEG-R had a weak-to-moderate positive correlation with IL-8, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α and a moderate positive correlation with Pro-ADM. TEG-ANG showed a weak negative correlation with IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α, while TEG-MA negatively correlated with IL-8, TNF-α and Pro-ADM. AT supplementation seemed to modify the association between TEG-MA and IL-8, IL-10 and Pro-ADM; conversely, AT did not affect the relationship among TEG-R or TEG-ANG and the studied cytokines.

Conclusions

High concentrations of systemic cytokines correlated with longer reaction times and decreased angle and amplitude at TEG, suggesting that an increase in inflammation is related with hypocoagulability as revealed by thromboelastography.
The physiology of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation - A comprehensive clinical perspective
Authors: Fresiello Libera , Hermens Jeannine A.J. , Pladet Lara , Meuwese Christiaan L. , Donker Dirk W.
Published: April 2024

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) has become a standard of care for severe cardiogenic shock, refractory cardiac arrest and related impending multiorgan failure. The widespread clinical use of this complex temporary circulatory support modality is still contrasted by a lack of formal scientific evidence in the current literature. This might at least in part be attributable to VA ECMO related complications, which may significantly impact on clinical outcome. In order to limit adverse effects of VA ECMO as much as possible an indepth understanding of the complex physiology during extracorporeally supported cardiogenic shock states is critically important. This review covers all relevant physiological aspects of VA ECMO interacting with the human body in detail. This, to provide a solid basis for health care professionals involved in the daily management of patients supported with VA ECMO and suffering from cardiogenic shock or cardiac arrest and impending multiorgan failure for the best possible care.
What the pediatric nurse needs to know about the Impella cardiac assist device
Authors: Borrelli Giorgia , Nittolo Ilaria , Bochicchio Chiara , Trainelli Laura , Confalone Valerio , Satta Tiziana , Cancani Federica , Kirk Richard , Amodeo Antonio , Di Nardo Matteo
Published: April 2024

Background: Cardiogenic shock in children still carries a high mortality risk despite advances in medical therapy. The use of temporary mechanical circulatory supports is an accepted strategy to bridge patients with acute heart failure to recovery, decision, transplantation or destination therapy. These devices are however limited in children and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) remains the most commonly used device. Veno-arterial ECMO may provide adequate oxygen delivery, but it does not significantly unload the left ventricle, and this may prevent recovery. To improve the likelihood of left ventricular recovery and minimize the invasiveness of mechanical support, the Impella axial pump has been increasingly used in children with acute heart failure in the last decade. Purpose: There are still limited data describing the Impella indications, management and outcomes in children, therefore, we aimed to provide a comprehensive narrative review useful for the pediatric nurses to be adequately trained and acquire specific competencies in Impella management.
Individual patient data meta-analysis on awake pediatric extracorporeal life support: Feasibility and safety of analgesia, sedation and respiratory support weaning, and physiotherapy
Authors: Cucchi Marta , Mariani Silvia , Kawczynski Michal J. , Shkurka Emma , Ius Fabio , Comentale Giuseppe , Hoskote Aparna , Lorusso Roberto
Published: April 2024

Objective

Awake Extracorporeal Life Support (aECLS) with active mobilization has gained consensus over time, also within the pediatric community. This individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis summarizes available evidence on pediatric aECLS, its feasibility, and safety regarding sedation weaning, extubation, and physiotherapy.

Methods

PubMed/Medline and Cochrane Database were screened until February 2022. Articles reporting on children (≤18 years) undergoing aECLS were selected. IPD were requested, pooled in a single database, and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes included extubation during ECLS, physiotherapy performed, tracheostomy, and complications.

Results

Nineteen articles and 65 patients (males: n = 30/59,50.8%) were included. Age ranged from 2 days to 17 years. ECLS configurations included veno-venous ( n = 42/65, 64.6%), veno-arterial ( n = 18/65, 27.7%) and other ECLS settings ( n = 5/65, 7.7%). Exclusive neck cannulation was performed in 51/65 (78.5%) patients. Extubation or tracheostomy during ECLS was reported in 66.2% ( n = 43/65) and 27.7% ( n = 18/65) of patients, respectively. Physiotherapy was reported as unspecified physical activity ( n = 34/63, 54%), mobilization in bed ( n = 15/63, 23.8%), ambulation ( n = 14/63, 22.2%). Complications were reported in 60.3% ( n = 35/58) of patients, including hemorrhagic (36.2%), mechanical (17.2%), or pulmonary (17.2%) issues, and need for reintubation (15.5%). Survival at discharge was 81.5% ( n = 53/65).

Conclusion

Awake ECLS strategy with active physiotherapy can be applied in children from neonatal age. Ambulation is also possible in selected cases. Complications related to such management were limited. Further studies on aECLS are needed to evaluate safety and efficacy of early physiotherapy and define patient selection.
Presidential Transitions and Interests Group Participation in the Notice and Comment Process
Authors: Livermore Michael , Eidelman Vladimir , Kornilova Anastassia , Lam Onyi
Published: April 2024

Federal administrative agencies are one of the primary policymaking venues in the United States. One of the core features of U.S. administrative practice is the notice-and-comment process in which agencies solicit, collect, and respond to comments from the public before issuing new regulations. In this paper, we develop a model of commenting based on three motivations—litigation preservation; agency persuasion; and expression—and analyze public comments to determine how features of the political environment, and specifically the president in power, affect the pool of commenters. We focus on the 2017 presidential transition, when there was both a change in Presidents and the party in control of the White House. We find that there were greater differences in the pool of commenters between administrations than within administrations and that interest groups tended to participate more when they were more closely associated with the party in power. Our findings support the view that many commenters use the public comment process for persuasive purposes, and not only to preserve litigation opportunities or for purely expressive reasons.
Radiomic nomogram based on lumbar spine magnetic resonance images to diagnose osteoporosis
Authors: Kang Si-ru , Wang Kai
Published: April 2024

Background

We aimed to establish a novel model using a radiomics analysis of magnetic resonance (MR) images for predicting osteoporosis.

Purpose

To investigate the effectiveness of a radiomics approach utilizing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lumbar spine in identifying osteoporosis.

Material and Methods

In this retrospective study, a total of 291 patients who underwent MRI were analyzed. Radiomics features were extracted from the MRI scans of all 1455 lumbar vertebrae, and build the radiomics model based on T2-weighted (T2W), T1-weighted (T1W), and T2W + T1W imaging. The performance of the combined model was assessed using metrics such as the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. The AUCs of these models were compared using the DeLong test. Their clinical usefulness was assessed using a decision curve analysis.

Results

T2W, T1W, and T1W + T2W imaging retained 27, 27, and 17 non-zero coefficients, respectively. The AUCS about radiomics scores based on T2W, T1W, and T1W + T2W imaging were 0.894, 0.934, and 0.945, respectively, which all performed better than the clinical model significantly. The rad-signatures based on T1W + T2W imaging, which exhibited a stronger predictive power, were included in the creation of the nomogram for osteoporosis diagnosis, and the AUC was 0.965 (95% confidence interval (CI)=0.944–0.986) in the training cohort and 0.917 (95% CI=0.738–1.000) in the test cohort. The calibration curve indicated that the radiomics nomogram had considerable clinical usefulness in prediction, observation, and decision curve analysis.

Conclusion

A reliable and powerful tool for identifying osteoporosis can be provided by the nomogram that combines the T1W and T2W imaging radiomics score with clinical risk factors.
Hands-on engineering design in an undergraduate thermodynamics learning context
Authors: Forbes Marissa H. , Gibbons Melissa M. , Hoople Gordon D.
Published: April 2024

Hands-on engineering design is a critical element of quality engineering education commonly featured in the first and last year of undergraduate programs. Technical science and engineering coursework dominate the sophomore and junior year, often with fewer hands-on design experiences. We sought to mitigate this by integrating a hands-on engineering design project into a second-year thermodynamics-focused course for mechanical engineering students. We iterated on a heat-to-work device design project developed by Shepard and Hoxie to make it more open-ended, and to introduce a ‘who’ and a ‘why’ into the project by having students design devices to help hypothetical users accomplish tasks. We analyzed student reflections about the project using an inductive thematic approach. Our results indicate that the project was challenging; students consistently described experiencing failures. Most students were eventually able to succeed in the project using a combination of design iteration, risk-taking, and adaptation. They articulated growth in engineering design capabilities (including the valuation of simplicity in designs, brainstorming, applied learning, and time management), and increases in confidence (including takeaways about the importance of self-trust and intuition). In this paper, we present the revised project design and findings from its implementation using student and instructor reflections, and suggestions about how it could be implemented in thermodynamics courses for other mechanical engineering programs.
On the project of a Marxist-feminist international: a project in movement
Authors: Clua-Losada Mònica , Haug Frigga
Published: April 2024

This interview with Frigga Haug explores the thirteen thesis which were developed collectively during three different international conferences and Frigga Haug authored the 13 theses. The goal was to make the feminist movement sustainable with a Marxist spirit and to bring Marxism to life. The theses are a work in progress, a framework for the foundation of a Marxist-feminist international, they are sustainable enough for them to stand the test through the specific changed conditions of our historically determined spaces of movement, and flexible enough that they would not harden into chains.
Multiple Stress Creep Recovery of High-Polymer Modified Binders: Consideration of Temperature and Stress Sensitivity for Quality Assurance/Quality Control Policy Development
Authors: Fares Mohamad Yaman , Marini Stefano , Lanotte Michele
Published: April 2024

High polymer-modified binders (HiPMBs) have recently been introduced in the Gulf region, where pavement structures are commonly subjected to severe climate conditions and heavy traffic loads because there is no enforcement of weight limits. Local agencies are currently modifying quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) policies to accommodate such technology. In this study, HiPMBs produced by different refineries were subjected to physicochemical and thermal characterizations to investigate the compositional variability of industrial HiPMBs. Their thermal and stress susceptivity was then assessed through multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR) tests. The validation of the MSCR-based hierarchy was performed by assessing nine hot mix asphalts (HMAs) through repeated load permanent deformation tests and performing mechanistic-based structural analysis. Results showed that styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) is not the only modifier added to the bitumen, as commonly done in laboratory settings. These undisclosed modifiers disrupt the correlation between MSCR results and SBS concentration typically observed in laboratory-prepared HiPMBs, highlighting the importance of investigating plant-produced binders. Moreover, higher temperatures and stress levels returned different MSCR performance hierarchies among binders, questioning the effectiveness of the current MSCR test protocol for HiPMBs. Additionally, findings confirmed that the current MSCR testing protocol does not correctly assess the bitumen response in HMAs. A higher MSCR stress level shall be prescribed in the local QA/QC specifications to ensure the correct selection of HiPMBs in the region. This study can be used as a framework for other countries actively engaged in the implementation of HiPMBs and novel bituminous materials.
Augmented Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair With Structural Bioinductive Scaffold: A Biomechanical Study
Authors: Lin Kenneth M. , Brinson Kenneth , Atzmon Ran , Chan Calvin K. , Sherman Seth L. , Safran Marc R. , Freehill Michael T.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Elbow ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) repair with suture brace augmentation shows good time-zero biomechanical strength and a more rapid return to play compared with UCL reconstruction. However, there are concerns about overconstraint or stress shielding with nonabsorbable suture tape. Recently, a collagen-based bioinductive absorbable structural scaffold has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for augmentation of soft tissue repair.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

This study aimed to assess the initial biomechanical performance of UCL repair augmented with this scaffold. We hypothesized that adding the bioinductive absorbable structural scaffold to primary UCL repair would impart additional time-zero restraint to the valgus opening.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Eight cadaveric elbow specimens—from midforearm to midhumerus—were utilized. In the native state, elbows underwent valgus stress testing at 30o, 60o, and 90o of flexion, with a cyclical valgus rotational torque. Changes in valgus rotation from 2- to 5-N·m torque were recorded as valgus gapping. Testing was then performed in 4 states: (1) native intact UCL—with dissection through skin, fascia, and muscle down to an intact UCL complex; (2) UCL-transected—distal transection of the ligament off the sublime tubercle; (3) augmented repair with bioinductive absorbable scaffold; and (4) repair alone without scaffold. The order of testing of repair states was alternated to account for possible plastic deformation during testing.

Results:

The UCL-transected state showed the greatest increase in valgus gapping of all states at all flexion angles. Repair alone showed similar valgus gapping to that of the UCL-transected state at 30° ( P = .62) and 60° of flexion ( P = .11). Bioinductive absorbable scaffold–augmented repair showed less valgus gapping compared with repair alone at all flexion angles ( P = .021, P = .024, and P = .024 at 30°, 60°, and 90°, respectively). Scaffold-augmented repair showed greater gapping compared with the native state at 30° ( P = .021) and 90° ( P = .039) but not at 60° of flexion ( P = .059). There was no difference when testing augmented repair or repair alone first.

Conclusion:

UCL repair augmented with a bioinductive, biocomposite absorbable structural scaffold imparts additional biomechanical strength to UCL repair alone, without overconstraint beyond the native state. Further comparative studies are warranted.

Clinical Relevance:

As augmented primary UCL repair becomes more commonly performed, use of an absorbable bioinductive scaffold may allow for improved time-zero mechanical strength, and thus more rapid rehabilitation, while avoiding long-term overconstraint or stress shielding.
Macrophage-derived exosomal miRNA-141 triggers endothelial cell pyroptosis by targeting NLRP3 to accelerate sepsis progression
Authors: Zhan Feng , Zhang Jun , He Ping , Chen Wenteng , Ouyang Yanhong
Published: April 2024

Sepsis, critical condition marked by severe organ dysfunction from uncontrolled infection, involves the endothelium significantly. Macrophages, through paracrine actions, play a vital role in sepsis, but their mechanisms in sepsis pathogenesis remain elusive. Objective: We aimed to explore how macrophage-derived exosomes with low miR-141 expression promote pyroptosis in endothelial cells (ECs). Exosomes from THP-1 cell supernatant were isolated and characterized. The effects of miR-141 mimic/inhibitor on apoptosis, proliferation, and invasion of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) were assessed using flow cytometry, CCK-8, and transwell assays. Key pyroptosis-related proteins, including caspase-1, IL-18, IL-1β, NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3 (NLRP3), ASC, and cleaved-GSDMD, were analyzed via Western blot. The interaction between miR-141 and NLRP3 was studied using RNAhybrid v2.2 and dual-Luciferase reporter assays. The mRNA and protein level of NLRP3 after exosomal miR-141 inhibitor treatment was detected by qPCR and Western blot, respectively. Exosomes were successfully isolated. miR-141 mimic reduced cell death and pyroptosis-related protein expression in HUVECs, while the inhibitor had opposite effects, increasing cell death, and enhancing pyroptosis protein expression. Additionally, macrophage-derived exosomal miR-141 inhibitor increased cell death and pyroptosis-related proteins in HUVECs. miR-141 inhibits NLRP3 transcription. Macrophages facilitate sepsis progression by secreting miR-141 decreased exosomes to activate NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis in ECs, which could be a potentially valuable target of sepsis therapy.
Associations of Cognitive Impairment with All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality Among Individuals with Diabetes: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shang Yanchang , Wang Shuhui , Wei Chao , Xie Hengge
Published: April 2024

This study explored the association between diabetes, cognitive imFpairment (CI), and mortality in a cohort of 2931 individuals aged 60 and above from the 2011 to 2014 NHANES. Mortality data was gathered through 2019, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to determine the association between diabetes, CI, and mortality adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, and comorbidity conditions. The study spanned up to 9.17 years, observing 579 deaths, with individuals having both diabetes and CI showing the highest all-cause mortality (23.6 events per 100 patient-years). Adjusted analysis revealed a 2.34-fold higher risk of all-cause mortality for this group, surpassing those with diabetes or CI alone. These results held after a series of stratified and sensitivity analyses. In conclusion, CI was linked to higher all-cause mortality in individuals with diabetes, emphasizing the need to address cognitive dysfunction in diabetic patients.
Computational analysis of electrical stimulation to promote tissue healing for hernia repair at varying mesh placement planes
Authors: Mosier Savannah , Berbel German , Friis Elizabeth A
Published: April 2024

Development of a tear in the abdominal wall allowing for protrusion of intra-abdominal contents is known as a hernia. This can cause pain, discomfort, and may need surgical repair. Hernias can affect people of any age or demographic. In the USA, over 1 million hernia repair procedures are performed each year. During these surgeries, it is common for a mesh to be utilized to strengthen the repair. Different techniques allow for the mesh to be placed in different anatomical planes depending on hernia location and approach. The locations are onlay, inlay, and sublay, with sublay being split into retromuscular or preperitoneal with sublay being the most commonly used. The use of an electrically active hernia repair mesh is of interest to model as electrical stimulation has been shown to improve soft tissue healing which could reduce recurrence rates. Theoretical 3D COMSOL models were built to evaluate the varying electric fields of an electrically active hernia repair mesh at each of the different anatomical planes. Three voltages were chosen (10, 20, and 30 mV) for the study to simulate a low-level electrical signal and the electric field from a piezoelectric material at the tissue layers surrounding the mesh construct. Based on the model outputs, the optimal mesh placement location was the sublay-retromuscular as this location had the highest electric field values in the connective tissues and rectus abdominis muscle, which are the primary tissues of concern for the healing process and a successful repair.
Role of fibre weight fraction on low-velocity impact characteristics of abaca fibre reinforced bio-composites
Authors: Shaik Mahaboob Subhani , Sankarasubramanian Hariharan
Published: April 2024

This work involved an experimental study on Abaca fibre bio-composites subjected to a low-velocity impact test at 2.42 m/s to study the effect of fibre weight fraction on the impact performance. The abaca fibre reinforced composite (AFRC) specimens were fabricated with a 10% increment of fibre, varying from Wf = 20% to 50%, and their impact properties compared with each other. The impact properties such as force-time history, energy-time history, Coefficient of Restitution (CoR), Energy Loss Percentage (ELP) and Energy Absorption Ratio (EAR) were studied. A significant change in impact force and energy absorption was found as the fibre content increased in the composite. The findings show a good relationship between fibre weight fractions, composite laminate stiffness, impact load and total absorbed energy. The experimental results of the impact test show that the composite specimen with Wf = 40% has high impact energy absorption capacity with 4. 09 J 92.94 N and 4.09 J, EAR of 39.94%, CoR of 0.77 and ELP of 40.04%. Low fibre weight fraction composite has shown brittle failure, and high fibre weight fraction has shown ductile behaviour. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) based study was used for post-impact damage analysis.
Steering control of electric tracked vehicle based on second-order disturbance observer and multiobjective optimization
Authors: Hou Xuzhao , Ma Yue , Xiang Changle
Published: April 2024

Autonomous and remote-controlled tracked vehicles are freeing humans from exhausting off-road maneuvers. Advanced motion control is a necessity to achieve high mobility and enhanced safety with less dependence on operator skill. Tracked vehicles may slide laterally or roll over under large centrifugal forces. Precise yaw motion and sideslip prevention are required for steering controller development. A switching control architecture is proposed for the underactuated tracked vehicle in this study. Two control laws for yaw rate tracking and anti-sideslip are proposed respectively based on second-order disturbance observers (DO-2s) with a given bandwidth. The controller is optimized for the two objectives using Nash bargaining method. The proposed steering controller is verified on a small electric track vehicle. Under large disturbance, the optimized DO-2-based controller prevents potential sideslip and reduces the yaw rate tracking error by 42.6% compared with LADRC. The chattering induced by switching is moderate because the estimated disturbances are smoothly switched.
Family Factors Associated With Bullying Among Adolescents in Asia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kustanti Erin Ratna , Afiatin Tina , Febriani Arum
Published: April 2024

Purposes: This scoping review aims to determine the family factors that influenced the occurrence of bullying among adolescents in Asian countries. Therefore, the research questions behind this review are as follows: What protective factors and risk factor are known to influence bullying among adolescent in Asian countries? Method: This study used PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews reporting guidelines. Search strategy in this study employs four electronic databases resources, SAGE, Springerlink, Science Direct, and Proquest. Result: Researchers compiled previous relevant quantitative and qualitative research to investigate family as a protective factor and a risk factor for adolescent bullying. The search on the database resulted in 28 studies published from 2012 to 2021 which have been analyzed. Parental bonding was the most common protective factor found in the literature, followed by warm parenting, parental involvement, parents’ support and acceptance. The risk factors for bullying included slapping, authoritarian parenting, parental control, weak family attachment, parental neglect, poor parental support, and poor communication with family. Applications/Originality/Value: The conclusion from this research is the scoping review results revealed that family variables became the protective and risk factors for adolescent bullying in the Asian context. The findings suggested that family was also an influential factor in adolescent bullying in the Asian context, in line with previous relevant studies in Western countries. However, the bonding with parents as a protective factor against bullying for adolescents in Asia might be explored further by employing collectivist cultural studies.
Relationship between shared regulation and argumentative discourse: analysis of collaborative interactions in a primary school classroom / Relación entre regulación compartida y discurso argumentativo: análisis de interacciones colaborativas en un aula de educación básica
Authors: Freire Paulina , Grau Valeska
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to explore the nature, emergence and maintenance of episodes of shared regulation and their relationship with argumentative discourse during collaborative work in the sciences. It consisted of an exploratory case study that tracked two groups in the fourth year of primary school (eight participants) through four collaborative activities. The sessions were filmed and analysed for their social regulation and argumentative discourse patterns. The frequency and length of the episodes identified and the association between regulation and argumentation were examined. Additionally, all the episodes of shared regulation of fundamental aspects of the task were further analysed. The results showed that argumentation was significantly associated with shared regulation and that counter-arguments were present when regulation focused on understanding the content. Disagreement within the group, individual regulatory behaviours and the characteristics of the activities appeared as relevant dimensions in the emergence and maintenance of the episodes of regulation of fundamental aspects of the task. The implications for educational practice and research are discussed.
Melanesian reimagining: a digital tok stori of Papua New Guinean identity on Instagram
Authors: Matthews Angela Kampah
Published: April 2024

Expanding social media research on the Pacific Digital Revolution, this article explores the significance of Papua New Guineans’ digital and visual articulations of Papua New Guinean identity through Instagram by analysing two public Papua New Guinean Instagram accounts, @archiveples and @taniabphoto. The research triangulates between Pacific, Indigenous, and Cultural studies, drawing on articulation theory and a multimodal thematic and visual cultural studies analysis. A Melanesian tok stori (storytelling) framework reveals how social media interactions fit within a culturally relevant Melanesian concept of storytelling and illustrates how social media has become a contemporary site for Pacific digital storytelling. This digital tok stori is a decolonsing digital wave of the Pacific artistic renaissance and reimagining emerging in 1970s post-independence art and literature. This research demonstrates how Papua New Guineans are subversively harnessing the tools and affordances of social media to counter reductive colonial narratives and mass media representations of Papua New Guineans.
Enzymatic Performance of Aspergillus oryzae α-Amylase in the Presence of Organic Solvents: Activity, Stability, and Bioinformatic Studies
Authors: Hasan Khomaini , Baroroh Umi , Madhani Indri Novia , Muscifa Zahra Silmi , Novianti Mia Tria , Abidin Muhamad , Yusuf Muhammad , Subroto Toto
Published: April 2024

Enzymatic reactions can be modulated by the incorporation of organic solvents, leading to alterations in enzyme stability, activity, and reaction rates. These solvents create a favorable microenvironment that enables hydrophobic reactions, facilities enzyme-substrate complex formation, and reduces undesirable water-dependent side reactions. However, it is crucial to understand the impact of organic solvents on enzymatic activity, as they can also induce enzyme inactivation. In this study, the enzymatic performance of Aspergillus oryzae α-amylase (Taka-amylase) in various organic solvents both experimentally and computationally was investigated. The results demonstrated that ethanol and ether sustain Taka-amylase activity up to 20% to 25% of the organic solvents, with ether providing twice the stability of ethanol. Molecular dynamics simulations further revealed that Taka-amylase has a more stable structure in ether and ethanol relative to other organic solvents. In addition, the analysis showed that the loop located near the active site in the AB-domain is a vulnerable site for enzyme destabilization when exposed to organic solvents. The ability of Taka-amylase to preserve the secondary loop structure in ether and ethanol contributed to the enzyme’s activity. In addition, the solvent accessibility surface area of Taka-amylase is distributed throughout all enzyme structures, thereby contributing to the instability of Taka-amylase in the presence of most organic solvents.
Solutions for Addressing the Dermatologist Shortage in Rural Canada: A Review of the Literature
Authors: McMullen Eric , Kirshen Carly
Published: April 2024

In Canada, there is a maldistribution of dermatologists, with as many as 5.6 dermatologists per 100,000 population in urban areas and as low as 0.6 per 100,000 in rural areas. Considering trends of dermatologists to work in group practices in urban areas, and the low number of rural dermatologists, one solution may be to incentivize dermatologists to practice rurally. Several solutions using the following themes are discussed: dermatology program-specific incentives, dermatology practice-specific incentives, and other indirect incentives. The low number of dermatologists in rural areas in Canada is concerning and has negative consequences for access to care for patients in rural areas, ultimately resulting in worse patient outcomes. Future research is needed to evaluate the impact of these initiatives and assess future access to dermatological care.
Finding fun in the fatigue: Exploring healthism among group fitness instructors
Authors: Andersson Karin
Published: April 2024

The concept of health is culturally contingent, and fitness practices provide a venue to gain insights into the construction of health. In this case study–based article, I focus on group fitness instructors’ narratives on healthiness and fitness rituals. By combining Foucault’s notion of the ‘microphysics of power’ and the socio-cultural phenomenon healthism, I employ a genealogical approach that reveals how healthism renders a discursive space for group fitness instructors (‘local fitness experts’) to navigate their understanding of health norms. A qualitative method consisting of 22 semi-structured interviews was used. Group fitness instructors teaching in Austria for a global group fitness distributor (Les Mills) were interviewed. The results show that eliminating risks to health is the highest imperative to the instructors, which is traced back to a dichotomy between ‘disciplined training’ and ‘fun training’, where fun training is seen as feminine and risky. Furthermore, instructors underline their health literacy through skeptical consumerism – choosing health for the sacrifice of fun or finding fun in the fatigue.
The effect of candidates and assessors culture on nonverbal expression and nonverbal judgments in the job interview
Authors: Cannata Davide , O’Hora Denis , Redfern Sam
Published: April 2024

Interviewing candidates poses various challenges when the candidate and the assessor come from different cultural backgrounds. A subset of these challenges derives from cultural differences in producing and interpreting nonverbal behaviors. The present study analyzed the nonverbal behaviors of 379 British and 313 Asian candidates who completed personality assessments and video-interviews for graduate positions in a financial institution. Interviewees produced significantly different types and rates of facial expressions across cultures; British candidates changed their facial expressions more often, and Asian candidates exhibited more positive emotions. The relationships between personality traits and nonverbal behaviors also varied across cultures, indicating that personality is expressed differently. Furthermore, muted videos of 304 candidates were rated by 3 British/Irish assessors based in London (UK) or Loughrea (Ireland) and 3 Chinese assessors based in Shanghai (China) on job fit, attractiveness, and personality. Candidates received higher ratings on job fit and attractiveness from assessors from their own culture. Overall, Candidates were assessed somewhat accurately (average r = 0.23). Candidates were judged more accurately in the London/Loughrea office condition. British candidates were judged more accurately than Asian candidates in the London/Loughrea condition. The implications of these findings for the fair and accurate selection of employees in cross-cultural settings are discussed.
Prevalence of Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Serving Military and Veteran Populations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Grinsill Rory , Kolandaisamy Matilda , Kerr Katelyn , Varker Tracey , Khoo Andrew
Published: April 2024

Serving military personnel and veterans are known to be at elevated risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and some veterans have been shown to respond poorly to current standard treatments. Evidence so far suggests that according to the 11th edition of the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems guidelines, complex PTSD (CPTSD) may be of higher prevalence in the general population than PTSD. The aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of CPTSD compared to PTSD in serving and ex-serving military populations. A systematic review was conducted with the search criteria set to peer-reviewed English language journal articles, focusing on serving military or veteran populations, reporting on the prevalence of CPTSD, not restricted by year. Four comprehensive databases (Psycinfo, Pubmed, CINAHL, and Embase) were searched. Of the 297 identified articles, 16 primary studies were eligible for inclusion. The review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42023416458), and results were reported based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Of the 16 studies, 13 demonstrated higher prevalence of CPTSD than PTSD. Studies were predominantly veteran focused. Prevalence of CPTSD ranged from 5% to 80.63%, while prevalence of PTSD ranged from 3.8% to 42.37%. There was high heterogeneity in study populations, preventing meta-analysis. This is the first systematic review to assess the prevalence of CPTSD in serving military and veteran populations, with the findings demonstrating a higher rate of CPTSD compared to PTSD. It is hoped that the review will assist clinicians and military and veteran health services with appropriate assessment, diagnosis, and intervention for those affected by CPTSD, as well as PTSD.
Design of a robot system for reorienting and assembling irregular parts
Authors: Su Jianhua , Shen Liancheng , Peng Zongyu , Qu Xiaoyi
Published: April 2024

The design of a robot system for assembling numerous parts, including screws, washers, nuts, and other irregular parts, is important in manufacturing. Although a robot can flexibly manipulate various parts with the aid of vision and force sensors, some challenges remain, for example, precise orientation and precise insertion when uncertainty exists in the positioning and manipulation of irregular objects. In this work, we present a method to design the orienting strategy for positioning the irregular parts based on the constraints formed by the fixture, thus the irregular parts such as the motor can be precisely localized only with the robot squeezing actions. We then develop a peg-in-hole insertion strategy using the force constraints formed by the environment, where fewer robot actions are required to insert the peg, thus enabling efficient and precise peg-in-hole insertions. Finally, we developed a robot assembly system with three robots from Universal Robots to perform all the assembly tasks, including picking, holding, placing, and inserting. Experiments on the assembly of a belt drive unit reveal the efficiency of the proposed method.
The relationship between the self-confidence in clean urinary intermittent catheterisation and self-efficacy of home care patients
Authors: Kaplan Mehmet , Çelik Hanife , Kaplan Feride
Published: April 2024

Background:

Home care patients experience great difficulty in fulfilling their daily activities. One of these difficulties is related to urinary excretion. It is necessary for individuals to possess self-efficacy as well as self-confidence in order to be able to perform self-administered clean intermittent catheterisation (CIC).

Aims:

The present study aims to determine the relationship between the self-confidence and self-efficacy of home care patients in CIC.

Method:

The data were collected from patients receiving home care services from a hospital in eastern Turkey between November 2022 and February 2023. The study data were collected online via google forms. No sample selection was made and the entire population was included in the study (372). The study was completed with 240 patients.

Results:

A significant positive correlation was found between the scores obtained from the self-confidence and self-efficacy inventories for CIC. It was found that the self-efficacy total score had an effect size of 66% on self-confidence inventories for CIC. In addition, age, education level and working status also affect self-efficacy.

Conclusions:

In the present study, it was concluded that the level of self-confidence affects the level of self-efficacy in self-catheterisation. The success rate of catheterisation increases in parallel with self-confidence.
Exploring the lived and coping experiences of patients with kidney failure undergoing haemodialysis in Malaysian private hospitals
Authors: Woei Ling Tan , Khuan Lee , Baharom Anisah , Arshad Mohd Mursyid
Published: April 2024

Background:

Chronic kidney disease is associated with structural and functional abnormalities in the kidney caused by a range of different aetiologies.

Purpose:

The study’s purpose was to explore the lived and coping experiences of patients with kidney failure undergoing haemodialysis in three private hospitals in Malaysia.

Methods:

Applying an interpretative phenomenological analysis using a hermeneutic phenomenological design to derive common meaning from participants lived and coping experiences. In the study, data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide from 15 purposefully sampled patients with kidney failure. Data were analysed using the interpretative phenomenological analysis principles.

Results:

Patients with kidney failure reported emotional distress, life limitations, financial burdens, knowledge deficits and varying perceptions of the haemodialysis treatment. Body image changes, financial assistance, social support and hope were coping strategies used by patients with kidney failure. It was identified that patients with kidney failure used unique coping strategies such as applying perfume and using clothes to conceal the impact of haemodialysis on their bodies, which is not comprehensively discussed in published literature.

Conclusion:

Nurses who deliver care to patients with kidney failure should focus on mitigating emotional distress, increasing knowledge related to kidney failure and improving perception of the haemodialysis treatment. Delivering and providing social support are indispensable nursing roles to help patients cope with haemodialysis treatment.
The Myth of the Need for Diversity Among Subjects in Theory-Testing Research: Comments on “Racial Inequality in Psychological Research” by Roberts et al. (2020)
Authors: Stroebe Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

Roberts and colleagues focus on two aspects of racial inequality in psychological research, namely an alleged underrepresentation of racial minorities and the effects attributed to this state of affairs. My comment focuses only on one aspect, namely the assumed consequences of the lack of diversity in subject populations. Representativeness of samples is essential in survey research or applied research that examines whether a particular intervention will work for a particular population. Representativeness or diversity is not necessary in theory-testing research, where we attempt to establish laws of causality. Because theories typically apply to all of humanity, all members of humanity (even American undergraduates) are suitable for assessing the validity of theoretical hypotheses. Admittedly, the assumption that a theory applies to all of humanity is also a hypothesis that can be tested. However, to test it, we need theoretical hypotheses about specific moderating variables. Supporting a theory with a racially diverse sample does not make conclusions more valid than support from a nondiverse sample. In fact, cause-effect conclusions based on a diverse sample might not be valid for any member of that sample.
Dealing With Diversity in Psychology: Science or Ideology?
Authors: Hommel Bernhard
Published: April 2024

The increasing use of political activist arguments and reasoning in scientific communication about diversity is criticized. Based on an article of Roberts et al. (2020) on “racial inequality in psychological research,” three hallmarks of the intrusion of activist thinking into science are described: blindness to the multidimensional nature of diversity, the failure to distinguish psychological mechanisms from the impact of moderators, and a blindness to agency as an explanation for psychological observations. It is argued that uncritically accepting and introducing political activist arguments into science is likely to damage scientific freedom and independence.