bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case management in emergency care: impact evaluation of the CARED Program
Authors: Ong Colin Eng Choon , Yap Joanne Yan Ting , Velu Kamala , Wu Christine Xia , Yap Adrian Ujin , Ng Kai Xin , Chu Michael Yat Sen , Dan Yock Young , Choa Peng Hui , Phan Phillip Hin Choi
Published: January 2025

Background

Hospitals face mounting pressure to reduce unplanned utilization amid rising healthcare demands from an aging population. The Case management for At-Risk patients in the Emergency Department (CARED) program is among the first ED transitional care strategies to focus on both frail older adults and emergency department (ED) re-attenders to reduce acute hospital utilization. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the CARED program in reducing hospital (re)admissions and ED re-attendances within 30- and 60 days post-discharge.

Methods

A retrospective, propensity-matched study was conducted from April 2022 to July 2023 in the ED of Ng Teng Fong General Hospital in Singapore. The CARED program identifies and enrols at-risk patients, i.e. frail older adults and patients who re-attend the ED within 30 days of hospital discharge, for a geriatric assessment. This is followed by multidisciplinary team care, discharge planning and right siting of care from the ED to community-based services by ED case managers. The primary outcomes were hospital (re)admissions and ED re-attendances within 30- and 60 days post-discharge. Secondary outcomes were cost avoidance and bed occupancy days from reduced acute hospital usage.

Results

Nearest-neighbour 1:1 propensity score matching matched 1615 intervention group to 1615 control group. Baseline characteristics of the intervention and control groups did not differ significantly. Difference-in-differences (DID) analyses showed significantly lower 30-day (3.96%; 95% CI 2.71–5.23%) and 60-day (6.69%; 95% CI 5.47–7.91%) hospital admissions, as well as 30-day (4.89%; 95% CI 3.83–5.95%) and 60-day (6.50%; 95% CI 5.28–7.72%) ED re-attendances in the intervention group compared to the control group. Additionally, the reduced admission and ED re-attendance rates resulted in 30-day and 60-day inpatient admission costs avoidance [$1 553 548.96 (69.86%); 95% CI $1 525 827.76 to $1 581 270.15; P = .006; and $1 400 047.07 (32.56%); 95% CI $1 365 484.79 to $1434 609.37; P = .048, respectively], ED attendance costs avoidance [$25 849.92 (23.70%); 95% CI $25 091.93 to $26 607.89; P = .096; and $37 538.39 (18.09%); 95% CI $36 470.27 to $38 606.53; P = .086, respectively] and bed occupancy days saved (1212 days; 95% CI 1191.80 days to 1232.20 days; P = .003; and 1267 days; 95% CI 1242.58 days to 1291.42 days; P = .011, respectively)

Conclusion

CARED program effectively reduced unplanned hospital use within 30- and 60 days post-ED discharge for at-risk patients. It also significantly lowered inpatient admission and ED attendance costs and hospital bed occupancy days, highlighting its potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare expenses.
The hidden pharmacokinetic challenge: diarrhea’s influence on cyclosporine therapy: a case series
Authors: Richard Riya Mary , G Jefry Winner , Shaibu Ann Mary , Pandey Bimal Raj , Thapa Praveen
Published: January 2025

Background:

Cyclosporine is used as an immunosuppressive drug to improve graft survival rates in the field of organ transplantation. Therapeutic drug monitoring [TDM] of cyclosporine in transplant patients is crucial for optimizing drug dosage and minimizing the risks. Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal condition, resulting in pharmacokinetic, malabsorption, and clinical consequences for people who rely on cyclosporine medication.

Case presentations:

The case series discusses three pediatric patients who underwent therapeutic drug monitoring of cyclosporine to guide their treatment. The first two cases involved post-renal transplant patients with glomerulonephritis, while the third case involved a patient with tubulointerstitial kidney disease. TDM was employed to guide dose adjustments. The first patient initially received 15 mg/kg but showed high trough concentration. The dosage was gradually reduced, while diarrhea was managed. The second and third patients exhibited a similar trend which also necessitated dose adjustments.

Clinical discussion:

Diarrhea was identified as a factor impacting cyclosporine levels. This case series evaluated the impact of diarrhea on cyclosporine therapeutic levels in three pediatric renal transplant patients. TDM in cyclosporine therapy is significant due to its narrow therapeutic index and variable pharmacokinetics. Elevated trough concentrations led to a gradual dose reduction to achieve the target levels.

Conclusion:

This case series highlights the importance of TDM-guided dosing of cyclosporine, particularly in patients with diarrhea, to maintain target trough concentrations.
Deciphering extracranial metastasis in high-grade meningiomas: insights from a case study and literature review
Authors: Ahmed Nazmin , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: January 2025

Introduction and importance:

These high-grade meningiomas have higher recurrence rates and poorer survival outcomes compared to benign variants. This study presents a case of metastasis in a high-grade meningioma and a comprehensive analysis of the literature published between 2000 and 2023, including only original studies focused on extracranial metastasis.

Case presentation:

We report the case of a 45-year-old female who presented with progressive left-sided weakness and partial seizures. Imaging revealed a large, lobulated extra-axial mass in the right parietal parasagittal region, which was surgically resected and diagnosed as an anaplastic meningioma (WHO grade III). Despite an initial recovery, the patient experienced tumor recurrence with local invasion, multiple metastases to the contralateral brain, liver, lung, spine, and long bone. Various treatments, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery, were employed, but the disease progressed, leaving the patient bed-bound at 8 years follow up.

Clinical discussion:

In our literature review, encompassing 247 patients with extracranial metastasis of meningiomas from seven studies, the lungs and bones were the most common metastatic sites. Patients with grade III meningiomas had poorer survival outcomes than those with grade II. Gross total resection (GTR) was associated with improved progression-free survival, while recurrence markedly reduced overall survival, underscoring the aggressive nature of metastatic meningiomas and the importance of early, comprehensive treatment strategies.

Conclusion:

Extracranial metastasis in high-grade meningiomas poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Our analysis underscores the complexity of managing these cases and highlights the critical need for early identification of high-risk patients and tailored treatment protocols to improve long-term outcomes.
Sacrococcygeal teratoma in a 10-year-old-female: a rare case report from Nepal
Authors: Kumar Yadav Kundan , Pokhrel Milan , Dhenga Sonam , Kumari Yadav Srijana , Basnyat Sameer , Yadav Krishna
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

Sacrococcygeal teratoma is commonly a benign tumor that arises in the sacrum and base of the coccyx. It has an incidence of 1 in 40 000 and a female-to-male ratio of 4:1. Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are key to diagnosis and surgical resection is the definite treatment.

Case presentation:

A 10-year-old female presented with a gradually progressive sacral swelling since birth associated with fever, pain, and discharge from the swelling for 2 weeks. On examination, there was an approx. 10 × 11 cm mass in the sacral region with a pus point and signs of inflammation were present. On palpation the mass was tender. MRI lumbosacral spine showed a complex mass in the infra-coccygeal region with features suggestive of sacrococcygeal teratoma. Surgical resection of the tumor was performed.

Discussion:

Sacrococcygeal teratoma arises from totipotent cells from Hensen’s node at the coccygeal region. Clinical presentation varies according to type with common manifestations being progressive swelling at the coccygeal region and features of mass effect such as low back pain, and bowel or bladder symptoms. Imaging helps in diagnosis as well as detecting the size, and extent of the tumor as well as its relation to nearby structures. Surgery via transabdominal or trans-sacral approach is the curative treatment.

Conclusion:

Diagnosis of sacrococcygeal teratoma should be considered if a patient presents with gradually progressive swelling of the sacral region.
Application of structural equation modelling (SEM) to evaluate reworks in sustainable buildings
Authors: Olanrewaju AbdulLateef
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Sustainable buildings are designed to minimise the adverse impacts of buildings on users, occupants, communities and the environment while enhancing client investment, contractors’ productivity and profit margins. However, sustainable buildings often experience significant rework. This research aims to evaluate the complex interrelationships among the causes of rework in sustainable buildings using structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques. By testing the theory and validating a framework addressing the causes of rework in sustainable buildings, the construction sector can make a meaningful contribution towards a sustainable future.

Design/methodology/approach

The study developed a questionnaire comprising 24 identified causes of rework in sustainable buildings, derived from an extensive literature review and field observations. The causes were evaluated using a 4-point Likert scale, ranging from less occurrence to very high occurrence. The survey was administered to construction professionals via online platforms and direct hand delivery.

Findings

The identified causes of rework were grouped into four components through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and subsequently validated using SEM. These components are competency, information, framework and plan. While the measurement model demonstrated robustness, the structural model indicated the need for further refinement. The study provides actionable strategies to mitigate rework, supporting the advancement of sustainable practices within the construction sector.

Originality/value

The findings of this research carry substantial theoretical and practical significance for advancing knowledge and practices in the sustainable buildings market. Theoretically, the study enriches the understanding of rework causes and their interrelationships, providing a foundation for future research. Practically, the results serve as a vital resource for stakeholders in the construction sector and offer actionable insights to enhance decision-making, improve project outcomes and foster sustainable building practices.
How do foreign and domestic institutional investors drive the market value? The influence of family ownership
Authors: Panda Brahmadev , Tripathy Sasikanta , Tiwari Aviral Kumar , Yarovaya Larisa
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate and compare the impact of foreign and domestic institutional investors on the market value of family and non-family companies. Subsequently, it examines how different degrees of family ownership influence foreign and domestic institutional investors and their value impacts.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of this study includes 339 non-financial firms from NIFTY-500 for 11 years from 2011 to 2020, which contains 128 family and 211 non-family companies. Both static (fixed-effect model) and dynamic (two-step system generalized method of moments) models are employed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Findings suggest that foreign institutional investors outshine domestic institutions regarding value creation. Meanwhile, higher (>50%) family holdings are detrimental to foreign institutional investors, while moderate holdings (26–49%) improve domestic institutional investments. The favorable effect of foreign players gets diluted with the higher (>50%) family holdings, while the adverse impact of domestic players improves with the moderate (26–49%) family holdings. Overall, partial family control is beneficial, while low and absolute family control is detrimental to market value. These findings indicate that institutional investors are family control-dependent, where the family control effect is not static.

Originality/value

This paper offers a novel perspective by addressing the effect of costs and benefits realized at three distinctive levels of family holdings on foreign and domestic institutional investors and their value impacts to witness differences caused by varying family control, which is not done earlier as per the best of our knowledge.
Post‐colonoscopy cancer rates in Scotland from 2012 to 2018: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Winter Jack , Clark Gavin , Steele Robert , Thornton Michelle
Published: January 2025

Aim

The aim of this work was to quantify post‐colonoscopy colorectal cancer (PCCRC) rates in National Health Service (NHS) Scotland using World Endoscopy Association guidelines, compare incidence between health boards and referral streams and explore comparisons in results with published data from other healthcare systems.

Method

This is a population‐based cohort study using NHS Scotland data between 2012 and 2018. All people undergoing colonoscopy between 2012 and 2018 and subsequently diagnosed as having bowel cancer up to 3 years after their investigation were included. The main outcome measures are national trends in the PCCRC rate at 3 years (PCCRC‐3yr). with comparison between bowel screening and non‐screening referral routes, board of referral and analysis of factors associated with occurrence.

Results

The overall unadjusted PCCRC‐3yr was 7.9% (7.4%–8.3%). There was no change in the annual rate over the 7‐year study period. The PCCRC rate was lower for the Scottish Bowel Cancer Screening Programme (6.7% vs. 8.3%), but compared unfavourably with rates reported by the NHS England Bowel Cancer Screening Programme from an earlier time period. There was wide variation in rates between health boards of similar population size. Rates were higher in women, with increasing age and in patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease or diverticular disease.

Conclusion

Despite advances in technology, there has been no improvement in the PCCRC rate in Scotland between 2012 and 2018. Rates in bowel screening colonoscopy are better than in nonscreening colonoscopy but compare unfavourably with NHS England, possibly as a result of less robust endoscopist selection and training. Quality improvement is required in colonoscopy in order to improve patient outcomes nationally, and to allow equitable access to higher‐quality colonoscopy in different regions of the country.
The transmembrane protein TMEM196 controls cell proliferation and determines the floor plate cell lineage
Authors: Matsumoto Yumi , Tamaru Seiichi , Chen Xing , Shinozuka Takuma , Sakumura Yuichi , Sasai Noriaki
Published: January 2025

The neural tube, the embryonic precursor to the vertebrate central nervous system, comprises distinct progenitor and neuronal domains, each with specific proliferation programs. In this study, we identified TMEM196, a novel transmembrane protein that plays a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation in the floor plate in chick embryos. TMEM196 is expressed in the floor plate, and its overexpression leads to reduced cell proliferation without affecting the pattern formation of the neural tube. We also established the floor plate differentiation protocol of the mouse embryonic stem cells, and analyzed the function of TMEM196 with this system. Mutating the Tmem196 gene does not alter cell division and overall differentiation remains unchanged within the neural cells. However, TMEM196 inhibits Wnt signaling, and Tmem196 mutant cells exhibit aberrant paraxial mesoderm differentiation, suggesting that TMEM196 selects the floor plate cell fate at the binary decision of the neuromesodermal cells. These findings highlight TMEM196 as a key regulator of both cell proliferation and floor plate determination, contributing to proper regionalization during embryogenesis.
A Global Relationship Between Genome Size and Encoded Carbon Metabolic Strategies of Soil Bacteria
Authors: Wu Xingjie , Peng Jingjing , Malik Ashish Anil , Peng Ziheng , Luo Yu , Fan Fenliang , Lu Yahai , Wei Gehong , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Liesack Werner , Jiao Shuo
Published: January 2025

Microbial traits are critical for carbon sequestration and degradation in terrestrial ecosystems. Yet, our understanding of the relationship between carbon metabolic strategies and genomic traits like genome size remains limited. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a global‐scale meta‐analysis of 2650 genomes, integrated whole‐genome sequencing data, and performed a continental‐scale metagenomic field study. We found that genome size was tightly associated with an increase in the ratio between genes encoding for polysaccharide decomposition and biomass synthesis that we defined as the carbon acquisition‐to‐biomass yield ratio (A/Y). We also show that horizontal gene transfer played a major evolutionary role in the expanded bacterial capacities in carbon acquisition. Our continental‐scale field study further revealed a significantly negative relationship between the A/Y ratio and soil organic carbon stocks. Our work demonstrates a global relationship between genome size and the encoded carbon metabolic strategies of soil bacteria across terrestrial microbiomes.
Multicentric Epidemiological Analysis on Medial Wall Fractures of the Orbit: 10‐Year Retrospective Study Between the Centres of Perugia and Ancona
Authors: Committeri Umberto , Monarchi Gabriele , Consorti Giuseppe , Giovacchini Francesco , Balercia Paolo , Tullio Antonio
Published: January 2025

Study Design and Objectives

The incidence of isolated fractures of the orbital medial wall is moderate because of the low bone thickness. Our study aimed to investigate demographic variables, fracture features and statistical correlations associated with these fractures retrospectively.

Materials and Methods

A total of 57 patients with isolated orbital medial wall fracture, admitted at the Maxillofacial Surgery Unit of Perugia University Hospital and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit of Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, from 2014 to 2023 were enrolled in the study.

Age, sex, comorbidities, post‐traumatic clinical manifestations and defect size and side were all evaluated in patients. Pearson's regression coefficient (r) was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The fractures were more frequent in men (male to female ratio 2.16:1) primarily as a result of motor vehicle accidents (30% of cases); the average age was 48 years; enophthalmos, diplopia and ocular motility abnormalities were observed in 31%, 23% and 21%, respectively.

According to statistical analysis, fracture area was significantly correlated with age, with older patients having larger fractures (p < 0.001); interpersonal violence and traffic accidents were related to younger age (p < 0.001). In a recent analysis of the data, it was found that isolated orbital medial wall fractures occur more frequently in young men (< 40 years) due to road accidents or interpersonal violence. Patients' age is statistically correlated with fracture area, with older patients having larger defects.

Conclusions

This research assesses both the demographic and fracture characteristics of pure medial orbital wall fractures, aiming to enhance the understanding of this clinical scenario and to evaluate optimal treatment strategies.
Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography for Cholangiopancreatic Duct Imaging in Dogs
Authors: Fujiwara Reina , Yamamoto Kie , Yamasaki Masahiro , Ohno Koichi
Published: January 2025

Ultrasonography is often used to diagnose biliary diseases in dogs; however, it is difficult to delineate the entire bile and pancreatic ducts. Various imaging techniques for bile and pancreatic ducts have been attempted to overcome this problem. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is often used to evaluate the bile and pancreatic ducts in humans with obstructive jaundice, but very few reports exist on its usage in dogs. This study was designed as a prospective observational study to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of MRCP for visualizing the bile and pancreatic ducts in nondiseased dogs. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the visibility of the bile and pancreatic ducts through MRCP imaging using a 3.0 T‐MRI system in dogs with no signs of hepatic, biliary, and pancreatic diseases. The detection rate for each anatomical structure was evaluated, with the highest observed in the gallbladder (100%), followed by the common bile duct (80%), cystic duct (70%), pancreatic ducts in the left and right lobe of the pancreas (70%), left and right hepatic ducts (60%), accessory pancreatic ducts (60%), and major pancreatic duct (40%). MRCP is a promising noninvasive imaging technique that can promptly and accurately visualize bile and pancreatic ducts in dogs without being influenced by the skill of the operator.
Bridging Therapies—Ex Vivo Liver Xenoperfusion and the Role of Machine Perfusion: An Update
Authors: Czigany Zoltan , Shirini Kasra , Putri Aghnia J. , Longchamp Alban E. , Bhusal Subarna , Kamberi Shani , Meier Raphael P. H.
Published: January 2025

Advancements in xenotransplantation intersecting with modern machine perfusion technology offer promising solutions to patients with liver failure providing a valuable bridge to transplantation and extending graft viability beyond current limitations. Patients facing acute or acute chronic liver failure, post‐hepatectomy liver failure, or fulminant hepatic failure often require urgent liver transplants which are severely limited by organ shortage, emphasizing the importance of effective bridging approaches. Machine perfusion is now increasingly used to test and use genetically engineered porcine livers in translational studies, addressing the limitations and costs of non‐human primate models. Current reports about artificial and bioartificial liver support combined with xenografts showcase the potential in ex vivo xenogeneic perfusion. Breakthroughs, such as the perfusion of genetically modified porcine liver with FDA‐approved machine perfusion systems connected to human blood circulation, underscore the interest and potential feasibility of a “liver dialysis” bridge to allotransplantation or recovery. This review provides an overview of the past and current research in the field of ex vivo pig liver xenoperfusion.
Does Core Training Improve Agility Performance in Soccer Players With Groin Pain? A Randomized, Single-Blind Study
Authors: Chaari Fatma , Rahmani Abderrahmane , Peyrot Nicolas , Harrabi Mohamed A. , Fendri Thouraya , Rebai Haithem , Boyas Sébastien , Sahli Sonia
Published: January 2025

Context: Agility is crucial for soccer players, and core training can improve it. One study showed significant agility improvements after an intervention including core training for athletes with groin pain. However, it is unclear if these improvements resulted specifically from the core exercises or the entire program. Additionally, the study lacked a control group, making the findings inconclusive. Purpose: The current study aimed to explore the effect of core training, previously reported in the context of groin-pain rehabilitation, on agility performance in soccer players with groin pain. Methods: Twenty soccer players with groin pain volunteered to participate. They were randomly assigned to a core training group (n = 10) and a control group (n = 10). Before and immediately after that period, agility performance (T test and Edgren Side Step Test) and self-reported outcomes (Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score) were assessed in both groups. Results: No significant session × group interaction was observed in agility T test (F = 2.55; P = .12; ) and Edgren Side Step Test (F = 3.18; P = .09; ) performances. Besides, Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome scores showed significant improvements (P = .007 to <.001) in the core training group following the 12 weeks of core training and compared with the control group. Conclusion: The results showed that soccer players with groin pain who received or did not receive core training showed similar agility performance. However, significant improvements in self-reported outcomes were observed in soccer players compared with the control group. Clinicians and coaches should therefore consider core training when designing training and rehabilitation programs for this population to enhance recovery.
Vibration Analysis of a Finite-Length Beam on a Modified Winkler Foundation Under Arbitrary Moving Masses
Authors: Ma Jianjun , Yang Hang , Wang Chaosheng , Liu Fengjun , Li Da , Wang Lianhua
Published: January 2025

The mass inertia effects of soil and moving masses significantly alter the dynamic behavior of structures. The latest advancements in the practice of structural engineering suggest that abrupt changes in mass and sub-structural components can substantially affect structural performance, with the inertia effects of moving masses and soil being especially crucial. Currently, the dynamic investigation of beam with elastic foundation support considering transverse inertia effects is gaining increasing attention in engineering applications. A finite-depth Winkler foundation beam dynamic model was formulated using the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory, incorporating the impacts of soil–structure interaction and moving mass forces on its lateral vibration. The Galerkin and Newmark methods were applied to solve the system numerically, enabling the evaluation of the impact of soil motion on the beam’s natural frequency and dynamic behavior. Finally, through dynamic interaction analysis, a parametric investigation was conducted on the influences of foundation soil mass, moving masses, foundation stiffness, and moving speed on the beam’s dynamic behavior. The results demonstrate that the incorporation of soil–structure interaction significantly alters the beam’s vibration characteristics beam under moving masses excitation. The mass and stiffness of the foundation soil, which participate in soil motion, alter the influence of the moving masses inertia on the beam’s natural frequency and dynamic behavior. These effects depend on the underlying mechanisms of soil–structure interaction.The findings provide new insights into the beam’s dynamic characteristics under load excitation, offering significant implications for the overall design and refined study of vehicle-track systems.
A Survey of Multimodal Learning: Methods, Applications, and Future
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Li Zhaojian , Zhao Bin
Published: January 2025

The multimodal interplay of the five fundamental senses—Sight, Hearing, Smell, Taste, and Touch—provides humans with superior environmental perception and learning skills. Adapted from the human perceptual system, multimodal machine learning tries to incorporate different forms of input, such as image, audio, and text, and determine their fundamental connections through joint modeling. As one of the future development forms of artificial intelligence, it is necessary to summarize the progress of multimodal machine learning. In this article, we start with the form of a multimodal combination and provide a comprehensive survey of the emerging subject of multimodal machine learning, covering representative research approaches, the most recent advancements, and their applications. Specifically, this article analyzes the relationship between different modalities in detail and sorts out the key issues in multimodal research from the application scenarios. Besides, we thoroughly reviewed state-of-the-art methods and datasets covered in multimodal learning research. We then identify the substantial challenges and potential developing directions in this field. Finally, given the comprehensive nature of this survey, both modality-specific and task-specific researchers can benefit from this survey and advance the field.
The Carceral Contradictions of Motherhood: How Mothers of Incarcerated Sons Parent in the Shadow of the Criminal Legal System
Authors: Christensen MacKenzie A. , Turney Kristin , Park Jang Suyeon
Published: January 2025

The expansion of the U.S. carceral system profoundly shapes motherhood for marginalized women, yet little is known about how mothers navigate a child’s incarceration. We use in-depth interviews with mothers of incarcerated men ( n = 69), most of whom identify as Latina, to understand how jail incarceration shapes women’s motherwork practices throughout the duration of their sons’ incarceration. Building on theories of decarceral motherwork, we find that women with incarcerated sons engage in multiple practices—including crisis, collective, and hypervigilant motherwork—similar to those of formerly incarcerated Black mothers. We advance these insights, revealing how motherwork operates among a different population of system-impacted mothers—those with sons incarcerated in jail. First, we highlight the temporal process of motherwork by documenting the specific practices mothers adopt before, during, and after their son’s incarceration. Second, we reveal how this motherwork process engenders substantial parenting role strains. Third, we find that cumulative parenting strains commonly lead mothers to engage in an additional motherwork strategy, distanced motherwork, which we define as the proactive—although often temporary—withdrawal of emotional, financial, and instrumental support to children. Thus, by illuminating patterns of motherwork in the context of a child’s jail incarceration, and by systematically linking motherwork to parenting role strains, we advance an understanding of parenting in the shadow of the criminal legal system.
A Further Look at Perception of Personalities in Typefaces: Evidence From Turkish
Authors: Sheen Mercedes , Yekani Hajar Aman Key , Morgül Ebru , Jordan Timothy R.
Published: January 2025

Previous research conducted in English indicates that the visual appearances of different typefaces are perceived as possessing distinct characteristics, what we call “print personality” (e.g., masculine, feminine, serious, fun) to the extent that the typeface used conveys information to the reader beyond that which is expressed linguistically by the word. Recent work has found that these attributions of “print personality” also extend to typefaces written in Arabic, but one language that is distinct from both languages is Turkish. Turkish is written in a version of the Latinate alphabet containing 29 letters which include unique diacritics and is a genderless language which requires no gender associations for nouns, pronouns, or adjectives. Given that many print personalities appear to be strongly associated with gender (masculine, feminine, elegance, confidence), it remains to be determined if the association of print personalities extends to Turkish typefaces, and the pattern of any such associations. Accordingly, sixteen different typefaces were presented to fluent native Turkish readers who rated each typeface according to 22 different personality characteristics. The results indicate that, although Turkish participants readily assigned personality characteristics to different typefaces, gendered associations across different typefaces were far weaker than previously found. Implications for the generality of the existence of typeface personalities across different languages, and the effect this may have on perception of genderless languages, are discussed.
Association between abnormal systemic coagulation inflammation index and recurrence of deep venous thrombosis as well as quality of life: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Yongquan , Lin Xiaorong , Chen Tebin , Gong Sisi
Published: January 2025

Background

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the lower limb is a significant clinical challenge with the potential for recurrence, which can lead to increased morbidity and reduced quality of life.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was conducted involving 367 patients diagnosed with lower limb DVT from June 2020 to June 2023. Patients were categorized into a recurrence group ( n = 121) and a non-recurrence group ( n = 246) based on DVT occurrence. Data were systematically collected from medical records, including demographic information, thrombus characteristics, patient compliance, coagulation parameters, inflammatory markers, and quality of life assessments using the CIVIQ-20 and SF-36 scales.

Results

The recurrence group had significantly higher mean age, history of orthopedic diseases, and pregnancy, reduced compliance with compression therapy and anticoagulation, and elevated inflammatory markers including IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. Prolonged coagulation times (PT, APTT, TT) were associated with a lower risk of recurrence. The SCI index was significantly lower in the recurrence group. Multivariate logistic regression identified age, IL-6, IL-8, PT, APTT, TT, and SCI index as significant predictors of recurrence. Quality of life scores were lower in the recurrence group, indicating a higher impact on mental and overall health. ROC analyses demonstrated strong predictive capacity (AUC = 0.905) of SCI index.

Conclusion

The study underscores the multifactorial nature of DVT recurrence, highlighting the role of age, systemic inflammation, coagulation times, and compliance with therapeutic interventions. The SCI index emerges as a compelling prognostic marker for assessing the risk of DVT recurrence. These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive management strategies incorporating these parameters to prevent recurrence and improve patients’ quality of life.
Internalization of help-seeking stigma and the moderating role of familism among Latine adults with chronic pain
Authors: Lagunas Melissa-Ann , Jin Joel , Rivera Peter , Widman Cammy
Published: January 2025

Latine1 adults with chronic pain face heightened stigmatization of seeking professional psychological help. However, research is needed to test whether stigma is internalized and to identify protective factors. We focus on familism, a value commonly found in collectivist cultures that emphasizes family bonds. We cross-sectionally examined whether self-stigma mediates public stigma and attitudes toward help-seeking while accounting for previous help-seeking experience and whether familism acts as a protective factor. We recruited 259 Latine adults with chronic pain ( Mage = 33.05, SD = 11.46) from Prolific. Results revealed that self-stigma mediated the relationship between public stigma and help-seeking attitudes. Additionally, familism moderated the relationship between public stigma and self-stigma. When familism was high, the association between public stigma and self-stigma was weaker, indicating a buffering effect. Findings highlight the need for values-based, culturally tailored interventions to improve help-seeking attitudes and reduce stigma.
Content knowledge attainment in English medium instruction: Does academic English literacy matter?
Authors: Aizawa Ikuya , Rose Heath , Thompson Gene , McKinley Jim
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the relationship between students’ English language proficiency, their reported levels of academic English literacy, prior content knowledge and their attainment of content knowledge in English medium instruction (EMI). The study also examines students’ perceptions of difficulties with academic English literacy at different levels of English language proficiency. Pre-course and post-course content tests were administered to 27 EMI students in an introductory Chemistry course at a university in Tokyo, Japan. The test results were triangulated with data from a quantitative measure of reported academic literacy and follow-up interviews to explore perceptions of ease and difficulties for academic language skills (i.e. reading, listening, speaking and writing). The quantitative findings indicated that students’ proficiency statistically significantly predicted post-test scores. Interviews with students corroborated this finding, illustrating the specific difficulties in academic language literacy faced by students with lower proficiency. However, proficiency alone did not determine success as other factors, such as previous exposure to EMI and prior content knowledge, played significant roles. The study found a non-linear relationship between reported difficulties with academic English literacy and test outcomes, indicating that students who reported fewer academic difficulties were not necessarily more successful in gaining content knowledge than those facing significant challenges in academic language tasks. The findings emphasise that academic support in EMI programs should not solely focus on test outcomes but also address the broader challenges students face with academic English literacy. Implications are discussed regarding language support, EMI curriculum planning and future research directions.
Moving beyond native-speakerism through identity-based teacher education: The roles of positioning and agency
Authors: Yang Zehui , Forbes Karen
Published: January 2025

In the field of English language teaching, the deeply entrenched dichotomy between ‘native English-speaking teachers’ (NESTs) and ‘non-native English-speaking teachers’ (NNESTs) has forcibly positioned NNESTs as linguistically and pedagogically inferior to their native counterparts. The prevalence of native-speaker ideologies marginalizes NNESTs in professional settings and impedes their agency enactment in claiming identities as competent educators. Therefore, it is crucial to facilitate English teachers (especially NNESTs) to practice agency to (re)negotiate identities to move beyond native-speaker ideologies. Framed by positioning theory, this study investigates how 12 in-service English teachers worldwide exercised agency to (re)negotiate positions throughout an innovative identity-based intervention. The intervention, implemented in three online sessions across six weeks, instigated participants’ identity reflections based on three themes: theories, pedagogy and power. Each session comprised one online seminar and one self-reflective written task. Drawing on data from the intervention and pre- and post-intervention interviews, our findings yielded three distinct identity negotiation patterns, namely active, tentative and reluctant repositioning. Participants of each pattern presented unique combinations of repositioning acts, including resisting inferior positions, selectively engaging with empowering positions, shifting back to initial positions and maintaining existing positions. Agency and positioning were found to be reciprocally informed. While agency was practised to facilitate repositioning, the agentic positions teachers undertook influenced agency enactment as well. Participants’ choices of different repositioning acts were jointly mediated by their evaluation of native-speaker ideologies’ impact on their existing positions and their power to challenge native-speakerism in their own professional settings. At a theoretical level, this article provides a conceptual framework that illustrates the interconnectedness between the intervention, teacher identity and teacher agency. At a practical level, it demonstrates the effectiveness of implementing identity-based intervention in teacher education to foster NNESTs’ repositioning and agency enactment against the backdrop of native-speakerism.
A blueprint for large language model-augmented telehealth for HIV mitigation in Indonesia: A scoping review of a novel therapeutic modality
Authors: Busch Daniel , Za’in Choiru , Chan Hei Man , Haryanto Agnes , Agustiono Wahyudi , Yu Kan , Hamilton Kyra , Kroon Jeroen , Xiang Wei
Published: January 2025

Background: The HIV epidemic in Indonesia is one of the fastest growing in Southeast Asia and is characterised by a number of geographic and sociocultural challenges. Can large language models (LLMs) be integrated with telehealth (TH) to address cost and quality of care? Methods: A literature review was performed using the PRISMA-ScR (2018) guidelines between Jan 2017 and June 2024 using the PubMed, ArXiv and semantic scholar databases. Results: Of the 694 records identified, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Although the role of eHealth interventions as well as telehealth in HIV management appears well established, there is a significant literature gap on the integration of telehealth and LLM technology. To address this, we provide a blueprint for the safe and ethical integration of LLM-TH into triage, history taking, patient education highlighting opportunities for reduced consultation time and improved quality of care. Conclusions: Variable access to mobile technology and the need for empirical validation stand out as limitations for LLM-TH. However, we argue that the current evidence base suggests the benefits far outweigh the challenges in applying LLM-TH for HIV care in Indonesia. We also argue this novel therapeutic modality is broadly applicable to the subacute general practice setting.
Between Modernization Theory and Orientalism: The Question of Modernity in the Study of Iranian and Turkish Nationalisms
Authors: Tüyloğlu Yavuz
Published: January 2025

The ongoing gulf between generalist social science disciplines and specialist area studies—where the former is associated with theoretical knowledge and the latter with the secondary role of producing descriptive information—informs the study of Middle Eastern nationalisms. This article’s specific references are to Iranian and Turkish nationalisms. “Theoretical poverty” of their specialized literature partly follows from and arises in response to the subordinate role the area studies are allocated and, equally importantly, how the subfields of Iranian Studies and Turkish Studies have developed within this setting. To demonstrate this claim, the article reviews relevant scholarship regarding the modernity of nations. This comparative analysis reveals that the contrasting ways the question of modernity is answered are a symptom of the differing development trajectories of Iranian and Turkish Studies as branches of Middle East Studies.
An Aberrant Abundance of Cronbach’s Alpha Values at .70
Authors: Hussey Ian , Alsalti Taym , Bosco Frank , Elson Malte , Arslan Ruben
Published: January 2025

Cronbach’s α is the most widely reported metric of the reliability of psychological measures. Decisions about an observed α’s adequacy are often made using rule-of-thumb thresholds, such as α of at least .70. Such thresholds can put pressure on researchers to make their measures meet these criteria, similar to the pressure to meet the significance threshold with p values. We examined whether α values reported in the psychology literature are inflated at the rule-of-thumb thresholds (αs = .70, .80, .90) because of, for example, overfitting to in-sample data (α-hacking) or publication bias. We extracted reported α values from three very large data sets covering the general psychology literature (> 30,000 α values taken from > 74,000 published articles in American Psychological Association [APA] journals), the industrial and organizational (I/O) psychology literature (> 89,000 α values taken from > 14,000 published articles in I/O journals), and the APA’s PsycTests database, which aims to cover all psychological measures published since 1894 (> 67,000 α values taken from > 60,000 measures). The distributions of these values show robust evidence of excesses at the α = .70 rule-of-thumb threshold that cannot be explained by justifiable measurement practices. We discuss the scope, causes, and consequences of α-hacking and how increased transparency, preregistration of measurement strategy, and standardized protocols could mitigate this problem.
Enlighten the Environmental Factors Associated with the Risk of Leukemia: Evidence from Case-Control Study
Authors: Devi Sushma , Raina Jyotdeep Kour , Sudershan Amrit , Kumar Pawan , Sharma Ravi , Bhardwaj Rohit , Digra Sanjeev K. , Panjaliya Rakesh K. , Kumar Parvinder
Published: January 2025

Background

Leukemia stands as a complex disorder characterized by multifactorial influences, encompassing both polygenic and diverse environmental factors.

Aim

Consequently, this “case-control observational study” was conceived to elucidate the specific environmental variables contributing to an elevated risk of leukemia among individuals in northern India.

Method

Samples were collected for data curation using a convenient non-probability sampling method. Furthermore, blood samples were obtained for antigenic expression analysis, conducted with the assistance of a flow cytometer.

Result

A total of 272 individuals participated in the research study, comprising 111 patients and 161 controls. This diverse sample allowed for an in-depth exploration of the risk associations with various environmental factors. The findings revealed that lower levels of physical activity (odds ratio [OR]: 1.87), increased caffeine intake (OR: 2.06), reliance on a non-vegetarian diet (OR: 3.46), smoking (OR: 3.85), and alcohol consumption (OR: 4.81) demonstrated significant associations with leukemia. Also, antigenic expression using immunophenotyping revealed higher expression of different markers such as HLA-DR, CD45, CD19, CD, etc.

Conclusion

The present study showed that multiple factors such as low physical activity, caffeine intake, smoking, and alcohol consumption are critical risk attributes of leukemia susceptibility. These findings underscore the nuanced interplay between environmental elements and leukemia risk, shedding light on critical factors warranting attention in public health discourse.
Evaluation of bacterial biofilm, smear layer, and debris removal efficacy of a hydro-dynamic cavitation system with physiological saline using a new ex vivo model: a CLSM and SEM study
Authors: Liu He , Wang Xi , Wang Zhejun , Shen Ya
Published: January 2025

Introduction

To evaluate the bacterial biofilm, smear layer and debris removal efficacy of a hydro-dynamic cavitation system with physiological saline using a new ex vivo model.

Methods

Seventy-five dentin discs were prepared from fifty-four extracted teeth. Seventy-five artificial root sockets were prepared. Sixty dentin discs were used to grow 3-week-old bacterial biofilms, while smear layer and debris were produced on fifteen dentin discs. These dentin discs were adhered to the middle third of the artificial root canals. The sixty ex vivo models with biofilm-covered dentin discs were divided into six groups: control, needle with physiological saline, ultrasonic with physiological saline, Odne™ Clean with physiological saline, needle with 3% NaOCl, and ultrasonic with 3% NaOCl. Biofilm removal efficacy was evaluated using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The fifteen ex vivo models with smear layer and debris-covered dentin discs were divided into three groups: control, Odne™ Clean with physiological saline, and 5% NaOCl followed by 17% EDTA. Smear layer and debris removal efficacy was evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance for comparisons involving more than two groups. Post-hoc pairwise comparisons were conducted using the Tukey test.

Results

OdneTMClean with physiological saline (98%) performed significantly better than needle irrigation (47%) or ultrasonic activation (54%) with physiological saline (P < 0.05). OdneTMClean with physiological saline removed biofilms as effectively as needle irrigation (97%) or ultrasonic activation (98%) with 3% NaOCl (P > 0.05). Additionally, 5% NaOCl followed by 17% EDTA (score: 1.33) removed the smear layer significantly better than OdneTMClean with physiological saline (score: 4.47) (P < 0.05). However, OdneTMClean with physiological saline (score: 1.27) removed debris as effectively as 5% NaOCl followed by 17% EDTA (score: 1.13) (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

OdneTMClean with physiological saline can effectively remove bacterial biofilm and debris from the dentin surface but cannot effectively remove the smear layer. Utilizing OdneTMClean during the final irrigation may enhance root canal cleaning efficacy.