bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Diplomatically bossy’: Discursive constructions of ‘good’ leadership in early childhood told through educators’ memories
Authors: White M , Gibson M , Theobald M , Farrell A
Published: March 2023

This article puts forward a discursive analysis of early childhood leadership in Australia, offering new ways of understanding the work of early childhood leaders and adding to the methodological tools used to consider work in early childhood education and care. While an emerging body of work recognises the complexities of early childhood leadership, there is little empirical work that identifies how early childhood leaders draw on discourses to understand their roles. This article reports on a study that problematises discursive understandings of ‘good’ early childhood leadership in collective-biography workshops with seven participants. A poststructural feminist inquiry, informed by Foucauldian theory, enabled complex and nuanced readings of early childhood leaders’ accounts. Discourses – or ways of thinking, speaking and doing – were identified and scrutinised through Foucauldian-informed discourse analysis. The findings were conceptualised through ironic categories that hold together discursive tensions and contradictions. Ironic categories, such as ‘diplomatically bossy’, provoke and stimulate new ways of thinking about what it means to be a ‘good’ early childhood leader. The findings add to the emerging conversation and new methodological approaches that address complexity, diversity and contingency in understandings of early childhood leadership.
Investigations on wetting and structural behavior using CaF2-SiO2-CaO-22.5%TiO2 SMAW electrode coating for AUSC applications
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Chhibber Rahul , Mahajan Sumit
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the structural behavior and high-temperature wettability of a CaF2-SiO2-CaO-22.5%TiO2 shielded metal arc welding electrode coating for advanced ultra-supercritical power plant applications. The wettability parameters were measured, including contact angle, spread area, adhesion energy, and surface tension. Extreme vertices mixture design approaches were used to develop 13 different electrode coatings. To determine the contact angle at solid/liquid interface, circular pellets were made from powder samples and heated inside the furnace at 1125°C at a constant heating rate. Young's and Boni's equations are used to calculate the surface tension value for 13 coated samples using the calculated contact angle. Adhesion energy for 13 coated samples is calculated using Dupre's equation. Phases and structural behavior of coating samples were measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. The developed regression model estimates the impact of primary ingredients and their interaction on the calculated wettability characteristics. CaF2.SiO2, CaO.SiO2, and CaO.CaF2 binary mixture is the more favorable and substantially impacts contact angle, whereas ternary interactions of CaO.SiO2.CaF2 shows an opposite effect on contact angle. Coating numbers 2 and 10 give better wetting behavior and spread area due to the low value of contact angles. Individual ingredient shows an increasing effect on surface tension and adhesion energy. Ternary component of CaO.CaF2.SiO2 is favorable and shows an increasing impact on adhesion energy.
Are women journalists in leadership changing work conditions and newsroom culture?
Authors: Assmann Karin , Eckert Stine
Published: March 2023

Using standpoint epistemology and critical mass theory this study analyzes the potential impact on work culture and conditions in German newsrooms following a call for voluntary gender quotas in newsroom leadership. In-depth interviews with 53 journalists in 21 leading newsrooms in Germany find positive changes in work culture and conditions for all journalists in all newsrooms that reached or approached critical mass of women in leadership. Through the eyes of women and men working in these national newsrooms, an increase in women in newsrooms that came near or superseded the voluntary quota in leadership positions helped boost ongoing institutional support regarding paid parental leave and childcare options and augmented transparency around opportunities for mentoring, coaching, and hiring through more institutionalized processes. We recommend a continued implementation of voluntary quotas and further research to document and analyze long-term structural and systemic changes that more women in newsroom leadership could bring.
Designing vocational training policies in an outermost European region: Highlights from a participatory process
Authors: Bettencourt Leonor , Simões Francisco , Fernandes Bernardo , Fonseca Joana
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a systematic framework of the most needed Vocational Education and Training (VET) reforms in The Azores, a Portuguese outermost region. Our report is based on a participatory research approach involving the perspectives of five different groups of stakeholders. Our data was collected in 18 virtual world-café sessions ( n = 164 participants—58 trainees; 21 trainers; 42 institutional representatives; 21 unemployed people registered at local public employment agencies; and 22 businesspersons; M age = 45.20; 60.37 women). Based on content analysis, we identified three main priorities to restructure vocational training policies: (a) VET perception and valorization, comprising strategies to disseminate a more positive social representation of VET in the region; (b) horizontal coordination between stakeholders, including effective ways of coordinating and sharing information; and (c) vertical coordination in terms of VET improvements of curricula, funding models, and investments in the sector’s human capital. Our correspondence analysis did not show significant differences regarding the prevalence of the three priorities across the five groups of stakeholders. We interpret and contextualize our results according to relevant publicly available data about the region, and an integrated governance lens to inform policy design in outermost territories.
“Eventually, It Became My Source of Motivation”: Black STEM Transfer Students’ Agentic Responses to Negative Campus Ethos at an HSI
Authors: Choi Yoon Ha , Tacloban-Moore Marie Janelle , L. Eddy Sarah , Potvin Geoffrey , Benabentos Rocio , Kramer Laird
Published: March 2023

As the fastest growing minority serving institution type, Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs) play important roles in reaching and serving a diverse group of students beyond Hispanic/Latine-identified students, including Black students. To understand Black STEM transfer students’ experiences at an HSI, we conducted and analyzed 10 student interviews guided by Harris and Wood’s Socio-Ecological Outcomes model. We found four themes. The first theme revealed participants had positive impressions of the HSI before transfer, due to its perceived racial/ethnic diversity. The second and third themes pointed to negative experiences after participants’ arrival at the HSI, connected to their status as transfer students and as Black students, respectively. In the final theme, participants exercised their agency, which allowed them to persist and succeed despite inadequate institutional support. Based on these findings, we urge HSIs to intentionally devote more attention and resources to support Black STEM transfer students and otherwise minoritized students.
The Effectiveness and Feasibility of Psychological Interventions for Populations Under Ongoing Threat: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yim See Heng , Lorenz Hjördis , Salkovskis Paul
Published: March 2023

Current views of psychological therapies for trauma typically assume the traumatic event to be in the past. Yet, individuals who live in contexts of ongoing organized violence or experience intimate partner violence (IPV) may continue to be (re)exposed to related traumatic events or have realistic fears of their recurrence. This systematic review considers the effectiveness, feasibility, and adaptations of psychological interventions for individuals living with ongoing threat. PsychINFO, MEDLINE, and EMBASE were searched for articles that examined psychological interventions in contexts of ongoing threat of either IPV or organized violence and used trauma-related outcome measures. The search was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Data on study population, ongoing threat setting and design, intervention components, evaluation methods, and outcomes were extracted, and study quality was assessed using the Mixed-Method Appraisal Tool. Eighteen papers featuring 15 trials were included (12 on organized violence and 3 on IPV). For organized violence, most studies showed moderate to large effects in reducing trauma-related symptoms when compared to waitlists. For IPV, findings were varied. Most studies made adaptations related to culture and ongoing threat and found that providing psychological interventions was feasible. The findings, albeit preliminary with mixed methodological quality, showed psychological treatments can be beneficial and should not be withheld in the context of ongoing organized violence and IPV. Clinical and research recommendations are discussed.
A novel method for design and simulation of 3D woven preform
Authors: Gao Ziyue , Chen Li , Zhao Shibo
Published: March 2023

Increasing demand for high-performance applications of composite materials requires an integral forming process for complex components. As a composite reinforcement, 3D (three-dimensional) woven fabric has advantages in producing near-net-shaped preforms. However, previous studies focused on plates with uniform thickness, which are often variable thicknesses or special-shaped parts in practical applications. Some structures are prepared by stitching and then formed in the mold, but this increases the fiber damage. This study proposes a fabric design method based on yarn movement. By controlling the movement direction and distance of each yarn, the warp path in the fabric can be designed, which cause the change of fabric structure and achieve the integrated forming of special-shaped preforms. Based on this method, a software package for the preforms design and simulation is developed, which can be used for various woven and 3D textiles to illustrate its versatility.
Using Interpretive Methods to Unleash the Potential of Human Resource Development
Authors: Lê Jane K. , Bednarek Rebecca
Published: March 2023

This paper briefly introduces qualitative approaches to Human Resource Development (HRD), before summarizing the current state of qualitative research methods in management and organization studies. Our intent is to draw lessons from management and organization studies for Human Resource Development, with the ambition of advancing theory building with the field, as well as general understanding of human resource development processes and practices (see Lester, 2023 ).
Ginkgo biloba Golden Leaf Extract (GGLE) Inhibits Melanoma Cell Invasion and Angiogenesis Through Inhibition of Angiogenin
Authors: Chen Ping , Wang Tao , Chen Qi
Published: March 2023

The popular dietary supplements of Ginkgo biloba (Ginkgo) products have been reported to have anti-cancer activities in multiple cellular and animal studies, with the benefits yet to be proven with clinical trials. The mechanisms of action are not clear, forming a barrier to investigation in Gingko-specific benefits to cancer patients, especially when combined with other therapies. Here we reported on the discovery of a novel mechanism by which a Ginkgo golden leaf extract (GGLE) inhibited melanoma cell invasion and angiogenesis. GGLE did not inhibit melanoma cells via direct cytotoxicity. Instead, GGLE significantly inhibited total RNase activities in melanoma cells under both normoxia and hypoxia conditions. The RNase angiogenin was induced twofolds by hypoxia, and the induction was significantly suppressed by GGLE treatment in a dose dependent manner. As a result of angiogenin inhibition, GGLE inhibited melanoma cell migration and invasion in a dose dependent manner. Conditioned media from melanoma cell culture sufficiently induced in vitro angiogenesis in human endothelial cells, whereas the conditioned media of GGLE-treated melanoma cells significantly inhibited this angiogenetic activity. This was accompanied with markedly reduced angiogenin concentrations in the GGLE-treated melanoma cell conditioned media. We concluded that, instead of direct cytotoxicity, GGLE inhibited angiogenin synthesis and secretion by melanoma cells, resulting in inhibition of tumor cell invasion and tumor-induced angiogenesis. This new mechanism opens the door for investigation in GGLE influencing tumor microenvironment, and warrants further investigation and validation in vivo.
A qualitative exploration of experiences accessing community and social services among pregnant low-income people of color during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Blebu Bridgette E , Kuppermann Miriam , Coleman-Phox Kimberly , Karasek Deborah , Lessard Lauren , Chambers Brittany D
Published: March 2023

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with increased social and economic stressors among pregnant individuals. While community and social services have been available to mitigate stressors in pregnancy (e.g. food insecurity and financial hardship) and reduce the risk of adverse maternal outcomes, it is unclear how the pandemic impacted access to these resources, particularly in communities of color with lower incomes.

Objective:

To examine the experiences accessing community and social service resources during the COVID-19 pandemic among pregnant people of color with low incomes.

Design:

Participants for this COVID-related qualitative study were recruited from two sources—a prospective comparative effectiveness study of two models of enhanced prenatal care and the California Black Infant Health Program between August and November of 2020.

Methods:

We conducted 62 interviews with Medicaid-eligible participants in California’s Central Valley. During their interviews, study participants were asked to share their pregnancy-related experiences, including how they felt the pandemic had affected those experiences.

Results:

We identified two broad themes: challenges with accessing community and social service resources during the pandemic and opportunities for improving access to these resources. Sub-themes related to challenges experienced included difficulty with remote access, convoluted enrollment processes for community and social services, and problems specific to accessing COVID-19 resources (e.g. testing). Sub-themes related to opportunities to improve access included leveraging instrumental support from perinatal staff and informational (e.g. practical) support from other community programs and pregnant peers. Participant recommendations included leveraging opportunities to improve client experiences through increased transparency and better patient–provider communication.

Conclusion:

This study highlights some important trends that emerged with the rollout of remote service delivery for social services among a vulnerable population. Many participants were able to leverage support through other programs and perinatal staff. These individuals identified additional opportunities to improve client experiences that can inform the future implementation of support services for pregnant people.
Psychosocial factors predicting the usage of technology by golfers
Authors: Rittenberg Benjamin SP , Barnhart Grace E , Neyedli Heather F , Young Bradley W , Dithurbide Lori
Published: March 2023

Technology has become an important resource in sport that can help athletes improve their performance. However, the factors that predict the use of technology among athletes are unknown. In an effort to understand the current use of technology, we examined factors that impact technology use in sport. Human technology research in other domains suggests that an individual's trust in technology may be an important predictor of whether they use technology. Specific to sport, an athlete's use of a coach, self-regulated learning, skill level, playing experience, and gender may also influence their technology use. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to determine which factors predict golfers’ use of technology and, through a secondary analysis, to explore how predictive factors differed between athletes who used technology and/or a coach. A one-time survey that gathered demographic and golfing-specific (Skill Level, years of playing Experience) information, and measured technology use, coach use, trust in technology, and self-regulated learning was completed by 313 golfers. Logistic regression determined that golfers’ use of a coach, trust in technology, self-regulated learning, and skill level predicted their use of technology. Further, a two-way factorial analysis of variance demonstrated that there were differences in trust in technology, self-regulated learning, and skill level between golfers who did and did not use technology. The findings of this novel study create a foundation for future research in this area and are the first step in determining how athletes can best use technology in their training and competition.
The under representation of women coaches in high-performance sport
Authors: Serpell Benjamin G. , Harrison Darlene , Dower Rae , Cook Christian J.
Published: March 2023

High-performance sport is still not appropriately addressing issues that perpetuate women's underrepresentation in elite sport coaching and leadership. Therefore, it is also unlikely representation for other minority groups in high-performance sport will be achieved any time soon. For high-performance sport to progress, there is an opportunity to create environments that foster a variety of coaching styles with diverse racial, ethnic and gender identities. This paper points to statistics from elite football and Olympic sports to highlight the issue of the underrepresentation of women coaches in high-performance sport and draws upon a range of literature to inform an evidence-based and strategic approach to designing development in the context of increasing coach and leader gender diversity in these settings. It explores leadership in high-performance sport, learning and development, and high-performance sport environments. We argue future focused development should prepare high-performance sport leaders to intervene at an environmental level where they provide leadership, facilitate performance enablers, and engage athletes and performance staff to shape cultural change
Verification of fluid-structure interaction modelling for wave propagation in fluid-filled elastic tubes
Authors: Liu Xinying , Fletcher David F
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a verification study of wave propagation in fluid-filled elastic tubes using a coupled numerical simulation method by comparing the simulation results with analytical solutions. A three-dimensional fluid-structure interaction numerical model is built using Ansys software. Wave propagation is investigated by applying a pressure pulse at the inlet of a fluid-filled elastic tube. The speed of the pressure wave and the radial displacement of the tube are simulated and compared with theoretical values. Simulation results yield a high level of accuracy. Different structural elements are used to represent the tube, and their impact on the results is discussed. The effects of tube material, tube constraints and fluid properties are also investigated in this study.
Relationship initiation and formation in post-match Tinder chat conversations
Authors: Roca-Cuberes Carles , Gibson Will , Mora-Rodriguez Michael
Published: March 2023

This article uses conversation analysis to investigate the communicative practices of unacquainted, matched Tinder users in chat conversations, in the process of developing a potential romantic relationship. Drawing on data from 157 Tinder conversations, the analysis explores the occasioning of talk about personal and intimate matters. The analysis shows that the interactional device through which the revelation of personal and intimate information is prompted is the ‘elicited self-disclosure sequence’. In cases in which a direct question fails to prompt a disclosure from the recipient, the ‘volunteered self-disclosure sequence’ emerges as an alternative to promote the revelation of further intimate information. We conclude by observing that relationships are ongoing routine accomplishments arising in mundane sociorelational contexts. The data are in Spanish and Catalan with English translations.
Fighting resistance: post-PARP inhibitor treatment strategies in ovarian cancer
Authors: Veneziani Ana C. , Scott Clare , Wakefield Matthew J. , Tinker Anna V. , Lheureux Stephanie
Published: March 2023

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPis) represent a therapeutic milestone in the management of epithelial ovarian cancer. The concept of ‘synthetic lethality’ is exploited by PARPi in tumors with defects in DNA repair pathways, particularly homologous recombination deficiency. The use of PARPis has been increasing since its approval as maintenance therapy, particularly in the first-line setting. Therefore, resistance to PARPi is an emerging issue in clinical practice. It brings an urgent need to elucidate and identify the mechanisms of PARPi resistance. Ongoing studies address this challenge and investigate potential therapeutic strategies to prevent, overcome, or re-sensitize tumor cells to PARPi. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms of resistance to PARPi, discuss emerging strategies to treat patients post-PARPi progression, and discuss potential biomarkers of resistance.
Resveratrol Reverses Myogenic Induction Suppression Caused by High Glucose Through Activating the SIRT1/AKT/FOXO1 Pathway
Authors: Liu Meiling , Cheng Luyang , Li Xianglu , Wang Hongzhi , Wang Manfeng , Gan Lu
Published: March 2023

Background

Differentiated bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) may be a therapeutic strategy to treat sarcopenia caused by high glucose. The effects of resveratrol in the myogenic induction of BMSCs under high glucose are unknown. We evaluated the effects and possible mechanisms of high glucose and resveratrol on myogenic induction of rat BMSCs.

Methods

Primary rat BMSCs were isolated and purified from Sprague-Dawley rats aged between 3 and 4 weeks. Rat BMSCs were differentiated into myogenic cells using conditioned medium and treated with glucose and/or resveratrol along with EX527 (a specific silent information regulator 1 [SIRT1] inhibitor). The expressions of MyoD1 and Myogenin were measured. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and the expressions of FOXO1 and p-AKT/AKT during myogenic induction were also examined.

Results

High glucose decreased cell viability, cell proliferation, and SOD activity, increased intracellular ROS levels, and inhibited the AKT/FOXO1. Resveratrol reversed myogenic induction suppression caused by high glucose, partly through restoring cell proliferation and viability, reducing peroxidative damage, and activating the AKT/FOXO1 pathway; this effect was eliminated by EX527.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that resveratrol promoted myogenic induction and partially reversed the suppression of myogenic induction caused by high glucose through activating the SIRT1/AKT/FOXO1 pathway.
In Vitro Comparison of 2 Clinically Applied Biomaterials for Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation: Injectable Hydrogel Versus Collagen Scaffold
Authors: Weitkamp Jan-Tobias , Benz Karin , Rolauffs Bernd , Bayer Andreas , Weuster Matthias , Lucius Ralph , Gülses Aydin , Naujokat Hendrik , Wiltfang Jörg , Lippross Sebastian , Hoffmann Michael , Kurz Bodo , Behrendt Peter
Published: March 2023

Objective

In autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), there is no consensus about used bioscaffolds. The aim of this study was to perform an in vitro comparative analysis of 2 clinically applied biomaterials for cartilage lesion treatment.

Design

Monolayer expanded human chondrocytes ( n = 6) were embedded in a collagen scaffold (CS) and a hyaluronic acid–based hydrogel (HA). Cells were cultured in chondropermissive medium supplemented with and without interleukin-10 (IL-10) and bone morphogenetic protein–2 (BMP-2). Gene expression of chondrogenic markers (COL1A1, COL2A1, COL10A1, ACAN, SOX9) was detected via quantitative real-time–polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Biosynthesis of matrix compounds, cell viability, morphology as well as migration from surrounding native bovine cartilage into cell-free scaffolds were analyzed histologically. Adhesion of the material to adjacent cartilage was investigated by a custom-made push-out test.

Results

The shift of COL1/2 ratio toward COL2A1 was more pronounced in HA, and cells displayed a more spherical morphology compared with CS. BMP-2 and IL-10 significantly increased COL2A1, SOX9, and ACAN expression, which was paralleled by enhanced staining of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and type 2 collagen in histological sections of CS and HA. COL10A1 was not significantly expressed in HA and CS. Better interfacial integration and enhanced cell invasion was observed in CS. Push-out tests using CS showed higher bonding strength to native cartilage.

Conclusion

HA-based hydrogel revealed a more chondrocyte-like phenotype but only allowed limited cell invasion, whereas CS were advantageous in terms of cellular invasion and interfacial adhesion. These differences may be clinically relevant when treating cartilaginous or osteochondral defects.
A rare case of synchronous follicular thyroid carcinoma arising within a mature cystic ovarian teratoma and stage IV differentiated thyroid cancer in iodine-deficient area in Viet Nam
Authors: Nguyen Phong Hong , Nguyen Thang , Pham Chien Minh
Published: March 2023

Well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma rarely spreads to soft tissues. Thyroid carcinoma arising within a mature cystic teratoma is even rarer. We report an extremely rare case of synchronous follicular thyroid carcinoma arising within a mature cystic ovarian teratoma and stage IV differentiated thyroid carcinoma. A 62-year-old woman who lived in an iodine-deficient area was accidentally diagnosed with an ovarian cyst during a radiological metastatic work-up for thyroid cancer. Following laparoscopic left salpingo-oophorectomy, histopathological examination revealed a follicular thyroid carcinoma arising within a mature cystic teratoma. After that, total thyroidectomy and surgical resection of the soft tissue lesion in the supraclavicular fossa were performed, and the patient received subsequent 131I ablation therapy, but the disease progression was recorded 3 months later. We believe that iodine deficiency plays a role in the malignant transformation of thyroid tissues within a mature cystic teratoma. In elderly individuals with significant metastases, radioactive iodine therapy is ineffective.
Designing privacy in personalized health: An empirical analysis
Authors: Deruelle Thibaud , Kalouguina Veronika , Trein Philipp , Wagner Joël
Published: March 2023

A crucial challenge for personalized health is the handling of individuals’ data and specifically the protection of their privacy. Secure storage of personal health data is of paramount importance to convince citizens to collect personal health data. In this survey experiment, we test individuals’ willingness to produce and store personal health data, based on different storage options and whether this data is presented as common good or private good. In this paper, we focus on the nonmedical context with two means to self-produce data: connected devices that record physical activity and genetic tests that appraise risks of diseases. We use data from a survey experiment fielded in Switzerland in March 2020 and perform regression analyses on a representative sample of Swiss citizens in the French- and German-speaking cantons. Our analysis shows that respondents are more likely to use both apps and tests when their data is framed as a private good to be stored by individuals themselves. Our results demonstrate that concerns regarding the privacy of personal heath data storage trumps any other variable when it comes to the willingness to use personalized health technologies. Individuals prefer a data storage format where they retain control over the data. Ultimately, this study presents results susceptible to inform decision-makers in designing privacy in personalized health initiatives.
Sonographic Evaluation of the Morphology of Kidneys Among Apparently Healthy Children in Northwest Ethiopia, 2021: The Normal Limits and Percentile Curves
Authors: Tsehay Binalfew , Seyoum Girma
Published: March 2023

Background:

Establishing a customized reference chart and curve of renal size for a specific population of the same sociodemographic characteristics enables a better interpretation of sonographic assessments.

Objective:

To evaluate the morphology of kidneys using ultrasound and establish the normal limits and percentile curves among apparently healthy children in northwest Ethiopia, 2021.

Design:

A hospital-based cross-sectional study design.

Setting:

The study was conducted in Debre Markos comprehensive specialized hospital, Finote Selam general hospital, and Bichena primary hospitals.

Patients:

The study participants were 403 apparently healthy school-age children, from December 2019 to June 2020.

Methods:

Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, physical examination, and ultrasound. We used EPI-Data Version 3.1 for data entry. Height and body surface area–related kidney length and volume curves and tables were generated after lambda-mu-sigma (LMS) quantile regression with a Box-Cox Transformation to Normality using the vector generalized additive model (VGAM) method and generalized additive model for location, scale and shape (GAMLSS) (R, VGAM, and GAMLSS package).

Results:

The height and body surface area of children was the best predictor of the sonographic dimensions of the kidneys. Reference intervals were established using height and body surface area specific for clinically practical dimensions of the kidney (length and volume).

Limitations:

Calibration of measuring tools in the hospitals was not conducted frequently; community fatigue due to presence of many research projects in the selected hospitals was observed.

Conclusions:

According to this study, the children are considered to have normal sonographic dimensions if ultrasound values lie between the 2.5th and 97.5th percentile based on their respective height and body surface area.
Ventricular Septal Defect Exposure by Tricuspid Valve Chordal Detachment—A Retrospective Matched Study
Authors: Ashry Amr , Khan Sophia , Johns Melonie , Moran Denise , Mohammed Heba M. , Lotto Robyn , Kutty Ramesh , Dhannapuneni Ram , Guerrero Rafael , Lotto Attilio
Published: March 2023

Background: Transatrial approach is the standard method in repairing ventricular septal defects (VSD) in the pediatric population. However, the tricuspid valve (TV) apparatus might obscure the inferior border of the VSD risking the adequacy of repair by leaving residual VSD or heart block. Detachment of the TV chordae has been described as an alternative technique to TV leaflet detachment. The aim of this study is to investigate the safety of such a technique. Methods: Retrospective review of patients who underwent VSD repair between 2015 and 2018. Group A (n = 25) had VSD repair with TV chordae detachment were matched for age and weight to group B (n = 25) without tricuspid chordal or leaflet detachment. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram at discharge and at 3 years of follow-up were reviewed to identify new ECG changes, residual VSD, and TV regurgitation. Results: Median ages in groups A and B were 6.13 (IQR 4.33-7.91) and 6.33 (4.77-7.2) months. New onset right bundle branch block (RBBB) was diagnosed at discharge in 28% (n = 7) of group A versus 56% (n = 14) in group B ( P = .044), while the incidence dropped to 16% (n = 4) in group A versus 40% (n = 10) in group B ( P = .059) in the 3 years follow-up ECG. Echocardiogram at discharge showed moderate tricuspid regurgitation in 16% (n = 4) in group A and 12% (n = 3) in group B ( P = .867). Three years of follow-up echocardiography revealed no moderate or severe tricuspid regurgitation and no significant residual VSD in either group. Conclusion: No significant difference in operative time was observed between the two techniques. TV chordal detachment technique reduces the incidence of postoperative RBBB without increasing the incidence of TV regurgitation at discharge.
Rapidly Progressing Dysphagia After Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury in a Patient With Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Beom Su , Lee So Young , Choi Jun Hwan , Seok Mina , Ko Su yeon , Lee Hyun Jung
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease affecting the axial skeleton, including the sacroiliac joint, which causes vertebral fusion in the advanced stage. However, reports of anterior cervical osteophytes compressing the esophagus and causing dysphagia in patients with AS are rare. Here, we present the case of a patient with AS and anterior cervical osteophytes who exhibited rapidly progressing dysphagia after thoracic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Case Presentation

The patient, a 79-year-old man, was previously diagnosed with AS and had syndesmophytes at C2-C7 without dysphagia for several years. In 2020, he began to experience paraplegia, hypesthesia, and bladder and bowel dysfunction after a fall. He also had T9 SCI American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade A due to a T10 transverse fracture. Four months after SCI, he developed aspiration pneumonia, and a videofluoroscopic swallowing study indicated dysphagia with epiglottic closing problems due to syndesmophytes at the C2-C3 and C3-C4 levels. He received treatment for dysphagia and VitalStim therapy thrice (once daily); however, the recurrent pneumonia and fever continued. He further underwent bedside physical therapy and functional electrical stimulation once daily. However, he died from atelectasis and exacerbation of sepsis.

Discussion and Conclusion

General deterioration of the patient’s physical condition due to SCI, sarcopenic dysphagia, and compression of cervical osteophytes seemed to be involved in rapid exacerbation following SCI. Early screening for dysphagia is vital in bedridden patients with AS or SCI. Additionally, assessment and follow-up are important if the number of rehabilitation treatments or the out-of-bed movement activity decreases because of pressure ulcers.
The Adolescent Cultural, Racial, and Ethnic Support (ACRES) Model: A Conceptual Framework for Guiding Adolescent Students of Color in Their Cultural, Racial, and Ethnic Identity Development
Authors: Duquette Kevin , Challenger Clewiston D. , Eng Timothy
Published: March 2023

The Adolescent Cultural, Racial, and Ethnic Support (ACRES) model is designed to support adolescents of color in their cultural/racial/ethnic identity development (CREID). Comprised of six developmentally tailored components, the ACRES model is grounded in and delivered through a feminist approach to foster supportive school environments and collaborative partnerships. We present interventions to prepare adolescents in navigating racial and sociopolitical climates and offer suggestions for further research and expansion of the model.
Cryptocurrency Acceptance Model to Analyze Consumers’ Usage Intention: Evidence From Pakistan
Authors: Li Chunling , Khaliq Nosherwan , Chinove Leslie , Khaliq Usama , Popp József , Oláh Judit
Published: March 2023

Blockchain and cryptocurrencies are transformative fintech breakthroughs that infiltrate the financial sector; however, they have many drawbacks and limits. Consumers have shown an insufficient level of acceptance of these innovations. This paper elucidates the main reasons for the effective growth of a cryptocurrency from user behavior. The objective is to determine what factors influence consumers’ intentions to engage in blockchain-based cryptocurrency dealings. Considering the complexity of emerging technologies, this paper applied an integration model which assumes various external elements such as financial literacy, performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, effort expectancy, awareness, trust, design, and social influence. Smart PLS3 has been used. The most critical determinant of a cryptocurrency’s growth is “design.” On the other hand, “design” affects effort expectancy positively, and social influence affects trust. Awareness, performance expectancy, financial literacy, and effort expectancy significantly affect intentions to use cryptocurrency. It’s worth mentioning that it is the first research to examine Pakistani customers’ perceptions of Bitcoin and their ability to partake. As a result, it is intended to serve as a base for potential research in this area.
An Empirical Study on the Impact of Chinese OFDI on the Global Value Chain Positions of Countries Along the Belt and Road and Threshold Effects
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhong Xin
Published: March 2023

In line with previous studies of the relationship between foreign direct investment (FDI) and global value chains (GVCs), this work uses national panel data of 31 countries along the Belt and Road (B&R countries) from 2010 to 2017 to study the impact of Chinese outside foreign direct investment (OFDI) on the GVC positions of B&R countries and examines the threshold effects of infrastructure level and institutional quality on that impact. The results show that the improvement of B&R countries’ GVC positions is related to Chinese OFDI, and Chinese OFDI has significantly positive dynamic effect on improving the GVC positions of B&R countries. Infrastructure level and institutional quality have double threshold effects upon the effect of Chinese OFDI on improving the GVC positions of B&R countries. When infrastructure level successively exceeds the two thresholds, the effect of Chinese OFDI on improving the GVC positions of B&R countries gradually increases, and when institutional quality successively exceeds the two thresholds, the effect of Chinese OFDI on improving the GVC positions of B&R countries gradually decreases. Our study proposes that under the Belt and Road Initiative, to improve the GVC positions of B&R countries, B&R countries should further strengthen their cooperation with China and continue to attract Chinese OFDI. Moreover, to better play the role of Chinese OFDI in enhancing the GVC positions of B&R countries, China should further strengthen the infrastructure connectivity construction with B&R countries and pay attention to the institutional quality of B&R countries when investing in them.
LGBTQ+ College Students’ Relationship Satisfaction During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Walters Tracy L. , Hanna-Walker Veronica , Clark Alyssa N. , Farina Rachael E. , Lefkowitz Eva S.
Published: March 2023

Research suggests that COVID-19-related restrictions affected individuals’ ability to engage in relationship maintenance behaviors and have led to poorer romantic relationship quality. Poor relationship quality may be especially problematic for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and otherwise non-heterosexual or-cisgender (LGBTQ+) college students, who often lack family support and are at greater risk for mental health issues. We used a social exchange theory lens to examine correlates of relationship satisfaction for LGBTQ+ college students during the early months of the pandemic. The analytic sample consists of 175 LGBTQ+ students ( Mage = 20.5) who completed an online survey and reported being in a romantic relationship. Our findings demonstrate that LGBTQ+ students with more supportive partners were more satisfied with their relationships. These results can inform clinicians how to better support LGBTQ+ college couples when they experience relationship stress.
Surgical Treatment for Displaced Odontoid Synchondrosis Fracture: A Retrospective Case Series Study
Authors: Gao Shutao , Xun Chuanhui , Xu Tao , Liang Weidong , Mamat Mardan , Sheng Jun , Guo Hailong , Sheng Weibin
Published: March 2023

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective

Odontoid synchondrosis fracture is rare, and there is a paucity of literature on its surgical treatments. This case series study analyzed patients treated with C1 to C2 internal fixation with or without anterior atlantoaxial release and discussed the clinical effectiveness of the procedure.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from a single-center cohort of patients who had undergone surgical treatments for displaced odontoid synchondrosis fracture. The operation time and blood loss volume were recorded. Neurological function was assessed and classified using the Frankel grades. The odontoid process tilting angle (OPTA) was used to evaluate fracture reduction. Fusion duration and complications were also analyzed.

Results

Seven patients (1 boy and 6 girls) were included in the analysis. Three patients underwent anterior release and posterior fixation surgery, and the other 4 underwent posterior-only surgery. The fixation segment was C1 to C2. The average follow-up period was 34.7 ± 8.5 months. The average operation time was 145.7 ± 45.3 min, with an average blood loss volume of 95.7 ± 33.3 mL. The OPTA was corrected from 41.9° ± 11.1° preoperative to 2.4° ± 3.2° at the final follow-up ( P < .05). The preoperative Frankel grade of 1 patient was grade C, of 2 patients was grade D, and of 4 patients was grade E. The neurological function of the patients in grade C and grade D recovered to grade E at the final follow-up. None of the patients developed a complication. All the patients achieved odontoid fracture healing.

Conclusion

Posterior C1 to C2 internal fixation with or without anterior atlantoaxial release is a safe and effective method for treating young children with displaced odontoid synchondrosis fracture.
Antecedents of Electronic Shopping Cart Abandonment during Online Purchase Process
Authors: Patharia Ishani , Jain Tanu
Published: March 2023

The present study synthesized the extant literature on electronic shopping cart abandonment (ESCA) for the last 22 years (2000–2022) using the PRISMA approach. This is one of the first studies that comprehensively synthesized the widely applied theories in the ESCA literature and the reasons for ESCA during the various stages of online shopping process (search stage, consideration stage, evaluation stage, and purchase stage). The findings suggest that Stimulus Organism Response theory, Cognitive Dissonance theory, and the Theory of Reasoned Action are the most prominent theories used in the ESCA literature. Further, customers abandon the electronic shopping cart due to several personal factors (e.g., trust, experience), website features (e.g., perceived behavioral tracking), and product attributes (e.g., perceived service quality). This study gives a snapshot of knowledge gaps in the ESCA domain and suggests future research directions from multifarious perspectives i.e., theoretical underpinnings, contexts, and customer characteristics. For marketers, it provides insights on factors affecting ESCA at each stage of the online shopping process to develop stage wise pragmatic strategies like gamification on shopping websites, improving navigational aspects on websites, removing threats to customer privacy, and creating greater transparency to increase customer trust.
Validity of Video-Based Analysis for Analyzing Shoulder Injuries in the National Basketball Association
Authors: Collins Andrew P. , Ali Sabah , Zaruta Douglas , Perry Nichole , Riemenschneider Joel , Service Benjamin C.
Published: March 2023

Background:

Shoulder injuries are very common in athletes playing in the National Basketball Association (NBA). With increasing injury video uploads available online, we may be able to identify and systematically describe the mechanism of these injuries in these athletes.

Purpose:

To (1) determine the validity of video-based analysis to evaluate mechanisms of shoulder injuries in NBA players during the 2010-2020 seasons and (2) report on commonly sustained injuries, circumstances associated with injury, and number of games missed owing to injury.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

An injury report data set was queried for shoulder injuries among NBA players between the 2010-2011 season and the 2019-2020 season, and results were cross-referenced using YouTube.com to identify high-quality videos of the injuries. Out of 532 shoulder injuries in this time frame, video evidence from 39 (7.3%) were evaluated for mechanism of injury and other corresponding situational data. From the remaining shoulder injuries, a randomly selected control cohort of 50 injuries occurring in the same interval was assessed for descriptive injury data, incidence of recurrence, necessity for surgery, and number of games missed, to compare with corresponding data from injuries in the videographic evidence cohort.

Results:

In the videographic evidence cohort, the most common mechanism of injury was lateral contact to the shoulder (41%; P < .001), which was associated with an injury to the acromioclavicular joint (30.8%; P < .001). Injuries occurred more often when the team was on offense (58.9%; P < .001) versus defense. Players who required surgery missed 33 more games on average than players who did not require surgery ( P < .001). For the injured players, a 33% incidence of reinjury was identified in the 12 months after their initial injury. As compared with the control cohort, no significant differences were noted in injury laterality, recurrence rates, necessity for surgical management, time in the season, or number of games missed.

Conclusion:

Despite its low yield of 7.3%, video-based analysis may be a useful tool to determine the mechanism of shoulder injuries in the NBA, given the similarities of injury characteristics as compared with the control group.
Effect of Media Exposure on Social Development in Children
Authors: Kim Sung Koo , Wi Da Som , Kim Kyung Mi
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in children, who show problems in social development, is increasing rapidly. If children watch media at an early age, they lose the time to interact with their parents and will not be able to play creatively, which can have a negative impact on social development. This study was performed to evaluate the association of media exposure with social developmental delay.

Methods

The sample consisted of 96 patients with social developmental delay who visited the developmental disorder clinic from July 2013 to April 2019. The control group included 101 children who visited our developmental clinic with normal developmental screening test results during the same period. The data were collected using self-reported questionnaires with questions regarding media exposure time, content, background media or foreground media, the age of first exposure, and media exposure with or without parents.

Results

In regard to media exposure time, 63.5% of the social developmental delay patients were exposed to media for more than 2 hours a day compared to 18.8% of the control group ( P < .001, [OR] = 8.12). In the risk factor analysis of media exposure on social development, male gender, media exposure before 2 years of age, exposure for more than 2 hours, and exposure alone without parents were statistically significant.

Conclusion

Media exposure was a significant risk factor for social developmental delay.