bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation on stab-resistant properties of co-woven-knitted fabric
Authors: Zhang Wen , Liu Shuai , Ma Pibo
Published: April 2022

Using glass fiber and polyester fiber as raw materials, stab-resistant properties of co-woven-knitted fabric are explored in this paper. A quasi-static stab-resistant performance test was conducted to study the stab-resistant characteristic of co-woven-knitted fabric pierced by a knife according to the puncture, displacement of puncture and puncture strength, and other parameters, recorded during the experiment. Three angles, 0°, 45°, and 90°, were chosen to explore the relationship between angles and puncture strength. Results indicate that the continuous shear resistance of multiple fibers in woven fabric and the weft-knitted yarns gathered after the locking effect in knitted fabrics work together during the experiment. It shows an increase of anti-shear effect of the fabric and an improvement of the anti-puncture ability. The puncture angles influence the puncture strength, and 45° shows the largest puncture force.
Virtual Qualitative Research Using Transnational Feminist Queer Methodology: The Challenges and Opportunities of Zoom-Based Research During Moments of Crisis
Authors: Tungohan Ethel , Catungal John Paul
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we discussed our experiences with Zoom-based virtual qualitative research with Asian international students attending Canadian universities. When reflecting on our study, we drew inspiration from Roberts et al., (2020) who highlight the ethical challenges that emerge when conducting virtual qualitative research with a community that is experiencing the harrowing effects of COVID-19 in real time. Yet we also departed from such work by considering the added ethical complexity of conducting research during COVID-19 with research participants and with research team members who have transnational lives. In answering the question, “how do you design a virtual qualitative research project with research participants and with a research team whose lives are transnational,” we discussed how our use of transnational feminist queer methodology allows us to emphasize accountability and flexibility and recognize the multiple-and-varied social locations of our research participants and our research team members. We realized that working with research participants who have transnational lives means that notions of risk and consent cannot only be considered from the standpoint of the individual who is participating in the project. Instead, it is paramount that risk and consent be considered from the standpoint of the individual’s larger, transnational community and location in global, geopolitical contexts. Transnational feminist queer methodology also allowed us to see the challenges and possibilities of virtual qualitative research. While Zoom presented challenges (namely, that our participants were concerned about their privacy), we found the functionalities of Zoom to enhance our research. Specifically, we found that the chatbox deepened participant engagement through the sharing of memes and GIFs, allowing more rapport to develop. Ultimately, we argue that virtual qualitative research is not an inferior alternative to in-person research but should instead be seen as a different way of doing research, one necessitating distinct methodologies and methods.
Continuum of maternal healthcare services utilization and its associated factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Addisu Dagne , Mekie Maru , Melkie Abenezer , Abie Habtamu , Dagnew Enyew , Bezie Minale , Degu Alemu , Biru Shimeles , Chanie Ermias Sisay
Published: April 2022

The continuum of care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal period is one of the vital strategies for improving maternal and neonatal health and preventing maternal and neonatal mortalities and morbidities. The level and determinants of the complete continuum of care for maternal health services reported by different studies were extremely varied in Ethiopia. Therefore, this meta-analysis aimed to estimate the overall prevalence of a complete continuum of maternal health care services utilization and its associated factors in Ethiopia. Databases such as PubMed/MEDLINE, Science Direct, DOJA, African journals online, Cochrane library, Google scholar, web of science, and Ethiopian universities’ institutional repository were used to search for relevant studies. A total of seven studies with 4854 study participants were involved in this study. Data were extracted by two reviewers and exported to STATA Version 11 for analysis. The I2 statistics and Egger’s test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias, respectively. The random-effects random effects model was used to estimate the level of complete continuum of care for maternal health services. The pooled prevalence of complete continuum of maternal healthcare services utilization was 25.51%. Employed mothers (OR = 3.16, 95%CI = 1.82, 5.47), first antenatal ante natal care visit before 16 weeks (OR = 7.53, 95% CI = 2.94, 19.29), birth preparedness and complication readiness plan (OR = 1.95, 95% CI = 1.12, 3.41), secondary and above educational status (OR = 2.97, 95% CI = 2.00, 4.41), planned pregnancy (OR = 6.86, 95% CI = 3.47, 13.58) and autonomy (OR = 3.73, 95% CI = 2.24–6.23) were significantly associated with continuum of maternal healthcare services utilization. In conclusion, the national level of complete continuum of maternal healthcare service utilization was low in Ethiopia. Being employed mothers, first ante natal care visit before 16 weeks, birth preparedness and complication readiness plan, secondary and above educational status, autonomy, and planned pregnancy were the major determinants of continuum of maternal healthcare services utilization.
Synthesis of a novel nitrogen mustard–conjugated bis-terpyridine ruthenium(II) complex as a potent anticancer agent that induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Liang Yuanwei , Huang Weiting , Wang Siqi , Su Weiming , Situ Qianyi , He Luxin
Published: April 2022

A fairly small-sized aryl nitrogen mustard–conjugated terpyridine is synthesized in only two steps as a ligand to chelate with RuCl3 to afford a [Ru(tpy-CM)2]Cl2 complex. This complex exhibits prominent antiproliferative activity toward several tumor cells. Further studies conclusively show that the complex suppresses human renal clear cell carcinoma cells (786-O cells) by inducing G1 phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. This work provides a synthetic and therapeutic model for nitrogen mustard-containing metal complexes.
The quest for selenocycles: From an ESR spectrum to a commercial product
Authors: Schiesser Carl H
Published: April 2022

Selenium compounds have a checkered history. Originally considered to be highly toxic, the tide turned in the 20th century when selenium was discovered to be an essential trace element; indeed, selenium is the least abundant element on Earth to have a well-defined biological role. Despite this new-found importance, organoselenium compounds were largely curiosities because methods for their synthesis were cumbersome and unpleasant and often involved toxic reagents and/or hazardous procedures. This paper describes how work carried out in collaboration with Alwyn Davies in the late 1980s, aimed at acquiring Electron Spin Responance (ESR) spectra of selenophene radical anions and cations, led to the development of free-radical methods for the synthesis of numerous selenium-containing heterocycles, many of which showed interesting and useful biological properties. This journey ends with the development of selenium-containing carbohydrates (selenosugars) that exhibit unique skin-repair properties and the establishment of Seleno Therapeutics as a vehicle for the commercialization of these selenosugars.
Comparison of the flame dynamics of a premixed dual fuel burner for kerosene and natural gas
Authors: Kaufmann Jan , Vogel Manuel , Papenbrock Jannes , Sattelmayer Thomas
Published: April 2022

In this study, the flame dynamics of swirl stabilized lean premixed combustion is investigated for kerosene and natural gas operation. A natural gas swirl burner is retrofitted with a twin-fluid nozzle to allow performing all experiments with the identical burner hardware. The mixture preparation complexity is stepwise increased from perfectly premixed natural gas to technically premixed natural gas and lastly technically premixed kerosene combustion. Flame transfer functions (FTFs) for the three configurations are presented and compared with each other. This approach allows to experimentally decompose the FTF and isolate the contributions of equivalence ratio fluctuations and droplet dynamics. Furthermore, FTF data for a systematic variation of equivalence ratio and air mass flow in kerosene operation is presented and the impact of spray quality and convective delay time on the FTF is discussed. For all operation points, stationary flame images are provided and evaluated as basis for the FTF interpretation. Additionally, NO emissions are measured in order to determine the degree of premixing in kerosene operation. Through a systematic FTF comparison, it was found that the frequency range in which droplets react to acoustic forcing can be read from the FTF phase. The spray quality was found to have a significant impact on the FTF whereas a change in the convective delay time does not affect the FTF.
A prospective multi-centre observational cohort study to evaluate frequency, management and outcomes of acute severe (grade III–VI) acromioclavicular joint injuries in the United Kingdom
Authors:   The Collaborative Orthopaedic Research Network (CORNET) Study Group
Published: April 2022

To collect data on current management and outcome of acute severe acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) injuries to inform the knowledge base, design and conduct of future research and explore the patient and injury features predicting surgical management. A prospective cohort study was conducted by two trainee collaboratives of acute Grade III to VI ACJ injuries presenting to 12 hospital trusts. 54 Patients were recruited within four weeks of injury regardless of treatment type over a one-year period. Patient reported outcomes and healthcare resource use were collected at six and 12 months post injury. Accounting for Rockwood grade, age, gender and dominant arm injury, the operative group had a statistically lower Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) at baseline (10.8 vs 25.3, <0.0001) and at six months (37 vs 43.8, p = 0.024) than the non-operative group. There was no statistical difference at 12 months (40 vs 44, p = 0.205). The odds of operative management were inversely correlated with baseline OSS (OR 0.89, p = 0.014). There was no clear preferential method of fixation in the ten patients that received surgery. Future research needs to take into consideration the transitory population of working age, on response to follow up. A future randomised clinical trial (RCT) should be multicentred, pragmatic and stratified for baseline function and injury grade at randomisation.
A critique of self-employment
Authors: Perulli Adalberto
Published: April 2022

Self-employed work participates, like subordinate work, in the logic of the capitalist social system of production. The legal system has built a false notion of autonomous work, that is, ‘free’ from heteronomous constraints and conditions, which does not correspond to the reality of social relations of production. Through a rereading of Marx’s Trinitarian formula and of the Slave-Master relationship in Kojève’s reading, the author proposes a critical reading of autonomous work, and, in a Weberian perspective, hopes for a progressive liberation of autonomous work through the intellectual work of science and politics.
Deflux® (NASHATM/Dx) urethral bulking injections: Outcomes over a decade in women with stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Yang Bob , Hobbs Catherine , Foley Steve
Published: April 2022

Objectives:

Urethral bulking injections are thought to be a low risk minimally invasive but temporary treatment option for women with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) with increasing prominence especially in the current era of the mesh controversy. However, little is known about their long-term effects. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and long-term outcomes of Deflux®, a non-animal stabilised hyaluronic acid/dextranomer (NASHATM/Dx) gel, when used as a urethral bulking agent in the treatment of SUI in women.

Methods:

All women with SUI treated with Deflux® from 2001 to 2007 were analysed. The success rates, duration of efficacy and short- and long-term complications of the treatment were recorded.

Results:

A total of 142 women with a follow-up of up to 13 years (mean 8.8 years) were included. Subjective treatment success was achieved in 92/142 (65%) patients. In those who achieved continence, the mean efficacy was 4.7 years. Side effects were uncommon with 12 (6%) of 209 experiencing transient urinary retention and 11 (5%) of 209 experiencing pseudocyst formation. All pseudocysts were treated successfully with an incision and drainage under either general or local anaesthetic. Sixty (42%) of 142 patients went on to have subsequent definitive incontinence surgery, and Deflux® treatment was found not to have negatively impacted the operation.

Conclusion:

Deflux® urethral bulking injections appear to be efficacious and safe when used as a treatment for SUI in women with a longer duration of efficacy than previously thought and a low side effect profile. This study provides a valuable timeline to help manage the expectations of patients considering urethral bulking treatment.

Level of evidence:

4
Long-term complications of bulking agents in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence: Results of a national survey
Authors: Patel Sana , Lazarowicz Henry , Hamm Rebecca
Published: April 2022

Introduction and Objectives:

Bulking agents have been used for decades as an alternative treatment for patients with stress urinary incontinence who are not appropriate for surgery. Despite this their long-term complications are poorly documented and can be misdiagnosed. This paper presents a literature review and the results of a national survey of members of the Section of Female, Neurological and Urodynamic Urology (FNUU) of the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) identifying the common long-term complications of widely used bulking agents in clinical practice.

Methods:

Following a comprehensive literature review an electronic survey was sent to members of the BAUS Section of FNUU. Data included hospital trust, use of urethral bulking agents (including type), the approximate number of procedures performed and whether any long-term complications had been observed and managed in their practice. Long-term complications were defined as those arising more than 12 months after treatment.

Results:

The literature review revealed multiple case reports of complications secondary to bulking agent injection but no high-level evidence regarding frequency or severity. The survey revealed complications including granulomas, erosions, abscesses and misdiagnoses of urethral diverticula and calculi formation. 88% of urologists who responded to the survey had performed a urethral bulking agent injection and 51% of urologists had observed or treated a long-term complication, some many decades after injection.

Conclusion:

Patients should be made aware of possible long-term complications of what appears to be a minimally invasive procedure in order for them to make an informed choice about treatment options.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable
Who is the Anthropos in the Anthropocene?
Authors: Wirth Jason Martin
Published: April 2022

This is a series of three interwoven philosophical reflections on the identity of the anthropos in the Anthropocene. Who is this anthropos? I argue that it does not indict humanity as such but rather a certain way of being human. Moreover, this mode of being human does not extend to all human beings, but rather only to a fortunate few who disproportionately benefit from fossil capital. I respond to this crisis by considering philosophical and, for want of a better word, spiritual, resources in indigenous traditions as well as Zen.
Analyzing program data and promotional approaches to inform best practices from a mobile phone-based reproductive health message program in Afghanistan
Authors: Lorenzetti Lara , Plourde Kate F. , Rastagar Sayed Haroon , Afzali Arzoo S. , Sultani Ahmad S. , Khalil Abdul Khaleq , Adeeb Abdul Waheed , Hemat Shafiqullah , Todd Catherine S.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Digital health technologies have contributed to the adoption of beneficial reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCH) behaviors through social and behavior change programming, including in hard-to-reach settings. On-demand digital health interventions rely on promotions to build awareness and increase use among target audiences. There is little research on preferred content and use of promotional approaches for RMNCH digital health activities.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective descriptive analysis of Mobile for Reproductive Health (m4RH) data in Afghanistan to assess the use and changes in call volume via the 2-3-4 platform by promotional approaches over 23 months between October 2017 and August 2019.

Results

There were 103,859 completed messages (CM) heard. Most callers reporting demographics were under 18 years, with roughly even distribution by gender. The number of CMs listened to across all menus increased with time. The basic m4RH family planning menu was most popular, with callers most frequently selecting information on intrauterine contraceptive devices. Nine types of promotional approaches were implemented. Compared against call volume, SMS blast promotion was the most productive promotional approach, radio broadcasts had modest increases, and social media and interpersonal communication demonstrated no clear change.

Conclusions

m4RH use increased over time, particularly among younger people. The number of promotional approaches used does not appear as important as the type of approach used to generate program awareness. Mass media communications, including SMS blast promotions and radio broadcasts, may be the most effective strategies. Deeper program data analysis can guide tailoring of message content and promotional approaches to reach target audiences with the RMNCH content they most value.
The bright side of social network sites: On the potential of online social capital for mental health
Authors: Hussenoeder Felix S
Published: April 2022

Social network sites are an essential part of the daily lives of people around the globe, but our theoretical understanding of the phenomenon is still limited. However, to fully grasp the potential of social network sites and to be able to generate meaningful applications, a theoretical understanding of the phenomenon is needed. I want to introduce the concept of online social capital as the first step in this direction, and show how it could be applied to the area of mental health. Therefore, I will (1) bring together social network sites and social capital theory, (2) introduce online social capital with a special focus on its capacity and mobilization as well as on associated processes of relationship maintenance and information search, (3) explore potential implications for mental health promotion, (4) depict the mental health risks that are associated with the use of social network sites, and (5) highlight some areas for future research.
The Role of Educational Experiences in Enhancing the Cultural Identity of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Undergraduate Female Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Turkestani Maryam Hafez Omar , Albash Nourah Ibrahim Abdullah
Published: April 2022

This study explored how educational experiences enhance the cultural identity of deaf and hard-of-hearing undergraduate female students in Saudi Arabia, using an explanatory design. The study methods include a researcher-made scale involving 105 female deaf and hard-of-hearing students, a focus group with 20 female students, and individual interviews with 11 female students. The individually interviewed participants were part of the scale and focus groups. Quantitative results revealed three profiles in terms of cultural identities found in deaf and hard-of-hearing students in Saudi Arabia. In descending order of prevalence these were bicultural identity, hearing identity, and deaf identity. Regarding the qualitative results, four main themes on how educational experiences affected the participants’ cultural identities emerged: educational environment, peer relationships, relationships with teachers, and communication methods. Differences in the participants’ cultural identities were found, based on different educational experiences. Thus, further mixed-methods research should be conducted to address how deaf and hard-of-hearing people perceive their cultural identities, and to discover the enhancing effects of different factors on their identities.
Bridging the Cervicothoracic Junction During Multi-Level Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Truumees Eeric , Singh Devender , Ennis Darlene , Livingston Heather , Duncan Ashley , Lavelle William , Riesenburger Ron , Yu Anthony , Geck Matthew , Mroz Thomas , Stokes John
Published: April 2022

Study Design

Systematic review and Meta-analysis.

Objective

This systematic review seeks to compare fusion, reoperation and complication rates, estimated blood loss (EBL), and surgical time between multi-level instrumented fusions with LIVs (lowest instrumented vertebra) in the cervical spine and those that extend into the thoracic spine.

Summary of Background Data

Several studies address the question of whether to extend a long-segment, posterior cervical fusions, performed for degenerative disease, into the upper thoracic spine. Recommendations for appropriate LIV continue to vary.

Methods

A comprehensive computerized literature search through multiple electronic databases without date limits up until April 3rd, 2020 using combinations of key search terms and sets of inclusion/exclusion criteria was performed.

Results

Our comprehensive literature search yielded 3852 studies. Of these, 8 articles consisting of 1162 patients were included in the meta-analysis. In 61.2% of the patients, the fusion did not cross the cervicothoracic junction (CTJ) (cervical LIV, CLV). In the remaining 38.8%, the fusion extended into the upper thoracic spine (thoracic LIV, TLV). Overall, mean patient age was 62.5 years (range: 58.8-66.1 years). Our direct analysis showed that odds of fusion were not statistically different between the CLV and TLV groups (OR: .648, 95% CI: .336-1.252, P = .197). Similarly, odds of reoperation (OR: 0.726, 95% CI: 0.493-1.068, P = .104) and complication rates were similar between the 2 groups (OR: 1.214, 95% CI: 0.0.750-1.965, P = .430). Standardized mean difference (SMD) for the blood loss (SMD: .728, 95% CI: 0.554-.901, P = .000) and operative (SMD: 0.653, 95% CI: .479-.826, P = .000) differed significantly between the 2 groups. The indirect analysis showed similar fusion (Effect Size (ES)TLV: .892, 95% CI: .840-.928 vs ESCLV:0.894, 95% CI:0.849-.926); reoperation rate (ESTLV:0.112, 95% CI: 0.075-.164 vs ESCLV: .125, 95% CI: .071-.211) and complication rates (ESTLV: .108, 95% CI: .074-.154 vs ESCLV:0.081, 95% CI: .040-.156).

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis showed that fusion, complication, and reoperation rates did not differ significantly between patients in whom multi-level posterior fusions ended in the cervical spine vs those of which was extended into the thoracic spine. The mean blood loss, operative time and length of stay were significantly lower in patients with CLV at C6 or C7, compared to their counterparts. These data suggest that, absent focal, C7-T1 pathology, extension of long, posterior cervical fusions into the thoracic spine may not be necessary.
Incidence of Symptomatic Femoroacetabular Impingement: A 4-Year Study at a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Institution
Authors: Safran Marc R. , Foard Sara James , Robell Kevin , Pullen W. Michael
Published: April 2022

Background:

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is an increasingly recognized cause of hip pain in young athletes. Although there are multiple studies that describe the radiographic prevalence of FAI in athletes, its true incidence within this population is unknown.

Purpose:

To report on the overall and sport-specific incidence of symptomatic FAI in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes. Return-to-sport times were reported for patients treated operatively.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted to identify all reported hip injuries within a large, multisport NCAA Division I institution. Hip injuries were stratified into FAI, general pain/dysfunction, musculotendinous, ligament, bursitis, bone stress, contusion, and other. FAI was diagnosed based on history, physical examinations, imaging, and symptomatic relief after a diagnostic injection. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate the overall and sport-specific incidence, and chi-square analysis was performed to identify contingency data.

Results:

In a 3-year period, a total of 5319 musculoskeletal injuries occurred in 1072 athletes. There were 491 (9.2%) hip injuries that occurred in 288 athletes, of which 40 injuries were FAI. The overall incidence of symptomatic FAI was 3.0% of the total population, 3.7% of all injured athletes, and 13.9% of athletic hip injuries. There were no statistically significant differences in FAI rates among male and female athletes overall or among male and female athletes within similar sports. Of the 19 athletes who were treated nonoperatively, 2 failed to return to play: 1 secondary to multiple musculoskeletal injuries and 1 related to cardiac issues. There were 21 hips in 20 patients that were treated operatively, with 1 athlete failing to return to sport. Return to play occurred at a mean of 202 days (range, 81-360 days) after hip arthroscopic surgery.

Conclusion:

In this large, multisport NCAA Division I cohort, the overall incidence of symptomatic FAI was 3.0% and represented 13.9% of hip injuries. The successful management of FAI with return to play was achieved by both nonoperative and operative treatment methods. The relatively low incidence of symptomatic FAI, despite reports of a high prevalence of FAI morphology in athletes, serves to emphasize the importance of clinical evaluations in treating patients with FAI.
A Comprehensive Oral Intake Evaluation Tool (the Kuchi-kara Taberu Index) Facilitated Functional Eating Rehabilitation: A Case Report in a Frail Older Patient with Malnutrition and Suspected Iatrogenic Sarcopenia
Authors: Hidaka Yoshifumi , Watanabe Satomi , Nishikawa Yumiko , Irie Iroha
Published: April 2022

Frail older hospital patients are susceptible to malnutrition and iatrogenic sarcopenia. This can be linked to the decreased appetite and oral intake that can arise in largely bed-bound patients who do not get up even for rehabilitation and meals. The KT index was devised as an easy-to-use evaluation tool to address oral intake issues, and it has potential utility for expediting a multidisciplinary comprehensive rehabilitation program. To our knowledge, no reports have described real-world evidence on multidisciplinary team interventions with this tool. Herein, we report the case of a frail older patient whose oral intake improved following a KT Index-based intervention.
The Effect of Environmental Stressors on Patient Experience in Medical, Surgical, and COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Bulbuloglu Semra , Çınar Fadime , Çürük Gülsüm Nihal
Published: April 2022

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of environmental stressors on patients’ intensive care experiences in medical, surgical, and COVID-19 intensive care units (ICUs). The sample group consisted of 231 patients hospitalized in medical and surgical ICUs and agreed to participate in the study. The data analysis was performed with IBM SPSS Statistics 25. The average age of the patients was 53.67 ± 13.3, 55.4% were male, 47.6% were high school graduates, and 45.5% were followed up in the COVID-19 ICU. It was also found that there was a negative and moderate degree of correlation between the Intensive Care Experience Scale (ICES) and the Intensive Care Unit Environmental Stressors Scale (ICUESS). Environmental stressors in ICUs are associated with patient experiences. It is clear that ICU stressors create a negative perception in the patient and this situation is emotionally exhausting.
Health Care Perspectives of Adult Patients with Lower Educational Attainment in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Harvey Eric , El Bizri Maria , Nguyen Geoffrey C. , Marshall Deborah A. , Mirza Raza , Sewitch Maida J.
Published: April 2022

Patients with lower educational attainment are underrepresented in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) research. To increase our understanding of the health care perspectives of patients with less than a university degree, semi-structured interviews were conducted among 23 outpatients at the McGill University Health Centre IBD Centre (Montreal, Canada). Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. Perspectives focused on communication with health care professionals, access to care, symptoms and treatment, and outside support. Access to an IBD specialist was the most important aspect of care. Good care, kind and receptive staff, and a lengthy delay to diagnosis were frequently reported experiences. IBD specialists, nurses, and family and friends were most helpful in managing disease. Physical and emotional symptoms, reduced social engagement, and medications were difficult aspects of living with IBD. An ideal IBD clinic would provide access to traditional and non-traditional services and assist with obtaining support to help patients engage in social activities, increase affordability of care, and maintain employment. Study findings may be helpful in designing equitable models of health care delivery.
Development of Written Materials for Participants in an Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias Screening Trial
Authors: Head Katharine J , Hartsock Jane A. , Bakas Tamilyn , Boustani Malaz A , Schroeder Matthew , Fowler Nicole R
Published: April 2022

Given that participants’ experiences in clinical trials include a variety of communication touchpoints with clinical trial staff, these communications should be designed in a way that enhances the participant experience by paying attention to the self-determination theoretical concepts of competence, autonomy, and relatedness. In this feature, we argue that clinical trial teams need to consider the importance of how they design their written participant communication materials, and we explain in detail the process our multidisciplinary team took to design written materials for the patient and family caregiver participants in our Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) screening trial. This article concludes with suggested guidance and steps for other clinical trial teams.
Student Interviews Exploring the Influence of the Coronavirus Pandemic on Graduate Nursing Education
Authors: Nodine Priscilla , Carrington Suzanne , Jenkins Peggy A. , Rosenthal Laura , Jones Jacqueline
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Advanced practice nurses are needed to fill the primary healthcare gap in the United States. Advanced practice/graduate nursing students were profoundly affected by the coronavirus pandemic in ways that may impact their educational experience.

Objective

The objective of this study was to explore the influence of the coronavirus pandemic on the educational experience of graduate nursing students.

Methods

An exploratory descriptive qualitative study using semistructured video conferencing interviews of 11 graduate nursing students at one university in the United States was conducted during July 2020. Data were explored using theme analysis.

Results

Four themes expressing the pandemic's impact on graduate student experience were identified: Alteration in human connections; Agility in action; Collaborative construction of change; and Metamorphosis emerging from disruption. The pandemic brought an alteration in how students connected with faculty, other students, and family. Many faculty and students responded with agility to the new mandates for social distancing. The students and faculty worked together to construct changes needed to provide the students with the required components of graduate education. These factors together created a metamorphosis in the functioning of the institution, breaking through hierarchical barriers in academia.

Conclusion

The disruption in graduate nursing education due to the pandemic led to opportunities, including swift faculty innovation, a collaborative spirit between faculty and students, and new appreciation for connections with faculty and fellow students. Continuing intentional implementation of these opportunities would benefit students’ experiences moving forward.
Clinical profile and surgical outcome of pars plana vitrectomy in non-diabetic vitreous hemorrhage
Authors: Shrestha Ruchi , Shah Ritesh Kumar , Joshi Purushottam , Parajuli Sanket
Published: April 2022

Background:

Spontaneous vitreous hemorrhage is one of the common causes of ocular emergency. There are very few prospective studies on the clinical profile and surgical outcomes for patients with dense vitreous hemorrhage caused by non-diabetic and non-traumatic till date to our knowledge.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to better understand the etiologies, clinical profile, surgical outcome, and visual prognosis following pars plana vitrectomy for dense vitreous hemorrhage in adults with non-traumatic and non-diabetic retinopathy.

Design:

This was a prospective interventional study.

Methods:

This study was conducted in Mechi Eye Hospital (Birtamod, Nepal) from October 2018 to September 2019. All consecutive cases, 46 eyes of 46 patients, with vitreous hemorrhage that underwent vitrectomy were included in our study. There were 14 (30.4%) female and 32 (69.6%) male patients, and the average age at presentation was 43.74 ± 16.19 (17–84) years. The success rate of surgery in terms of visual outcome was evaluated.

Results:

The most common cause of vitreous hemorrhage was retinal vasculitis with fibrovascular changes and vascular sheathing 19 (41%). The indication of vitrectomy on patient demand was 20 (43.5%). Success rate of surgery in terms of visual outcome (functional outcome) was defined as final visual acuity of >6/60 which was 86.9%.

Conclusion:

The most common cause of spontaneous vitreous hemorrhage in our study was retinal vasculitis with fibrovascular changes and vascular sheathing. Vitrectomy has a good surgical outcome for spontaneous vitreous hemorrhage in terms of visual outcome (functional outcome) unless guarded by other factors like chorioretinal atrophy followed by optic atrophy and epiretinal membrane.
Exploring Key HR Challenges in Managing a Multigenerational Indian Workforce
Authors: Dokadia Afsha , Palo Sasmita
Published: April 2022

The present study aims at understanding practitioners’ perspectives on managing generational differences at workplace. Participants included 30 HR manages from varied organisations in Mumbai and Delhi. In-depth interviews were conducted, transcribed and analysed to generate themes. Seven key challenges emerged from the discussion which HR managers reckon with while managing a multigenerational team: ‘understanding the generational markers unique to the Indian context’, understanding generational groups’ perspectives on ‘career’, ‘learning’, ‘leadership’, ‘communication and technology’, ‘attitudes towards work’ and ‘understanding generational differences in blue-collared workers’. While generational differences may cause conflicts and tensions, understanding and appreciating them would help managers to deal with these differences in a gainful manner.
Adoption of Online Learning Models by Business Enterprises to Harness the Benefits of An Age-Diverse Workforce
Authors: Krishnan Dulles
Published: April 2022

In the changing future of work, employers will need new approaches to workforce-skilling as organisations become increasingly ‘age-diverse’, and technology changes jobs and skills at an accelerated pace. Driving meaningful skill development will be crucial to channel the diversity of a multi-generational workforce. Agility and adaptability, not age, will determine the extent to which employees contribute and thrive. By leveraging new digital and online learning models, enterprises can build critical skills flexibly across a multi-generational workforce while paving the way for continuous skill development. Digital learning can help organisations identify skills gaps for employees across the age spectrum personalise programs to narrow these gaps while tracking and measuring progress towards larger learning goals that meet organisational objectives.

This article examines skilling trends that are enabling organisations to inclusively build a resilient workforce by maximising the potential of multi-generational talent and empowering employees across the age spectrum to contribute cohesively and drive business impact.
Research Landscape of Multigenerational Workforce Literature: A Bibliographic Coupling and Co-Citation Analysis
Authors: Singh Vibhav , Chaurasia Sushil S.
Published: April 2022

The multigenerational workforce is not a transient but a permanent phenomenon impacting organisation-level outcomes. People are the differentiators for a company’s performance, and it is pertinent to understand the facets that influence employee behaviour at the workplace. One such facet is generational diversity. This study attempts to understand the intellectual structure of multigenerational workforce literature and its relevance in HRD. Bibliometric analysis comprising bibliographic coupling and co-citation methods has been applied to analyse the selected sample of 109 journal articles from reputed journals obtained from the SCOPUS database. Results of this study indicate the most cited articles, the most influential authors, countries and educational institutions with leading publications and the most active journals. Lastly, the study delineates the major themes that emerge from the extant works in the area.
Institutional Arbitrage: How Actors Exploit Institutional Difference
Authors: Perkmann Markus , Phillips Nelson , Greenwood Royston
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we explore how actors benefit from bringing together incompatible institutional logics – an activity we call institutional arbitrage – and discuss why they do so despite the challenges it creates. We develop a taxonomy of four basic tactics of institutional arbitrage that are rooted in differences between logics in terms of resource valuation, purpose, practices and legitimacy. These tactics enable actors to create benefits by engaging with actors from fields adhering to different logics or integrating practices from other fields. We also discuss some of the factors that enable actors to deploy these tactics in particular institutional settings. We conclude with a discussion of some of the potential consequences of institutional arbitrage for actors, organizations and the broader organizational field within which arbitrage occurs.
Structural, functional, and immunogenicity implications of F9 gene recoding
Authors: Katneni Upendra K. , Alexaki Aikaterini , Hunt Ryan C. , Hamasaki-Katagiri Nobuko , Hettiarachchi Gaya K. , Kames Jacob M. , McGill Joseph R. , Holcomb David D. , Athey John C. , Lin Brian , Parunov Leonid A. , Kafri Tal , Lu Qi , Peters Robert , Ovanesov Mikhail V. , Freedberg Darón I. , Bar Haim , Komar Anton A. , Sauna Zuben E. , Kimchi-Sarfaty Chava
Published: April 2022

Hemophilia B is a blood clotting disorder caused by deficient activity of coagulation factor IX (FIX). Multiple recombinant FIX proteins are currently approved to treat hemophilia B, and several gene therapy products are currently being developed. Codon optimization is a frequently used technique in the pharmaceutical industry to improve recombinant protein expression by recoding a coding sequence using multiple synonymous codon substitutions. The underlying assumption of this gene recoding is that synonymous substitutions do not alter protein characteristics because the primary sequence of the protein remains unchanged. However, a critical body of evidence shows that synonymous variants can affect cotranslational folding and protein function. Gene recoding could potentially alter the structure, function, and in vivo immunogenicity of recoded therapeutic proteins. Here, we evaluated multiple recoded variants of F9 designed to further explore the effects of codon usage bias on protein properties. The detailed evaluation of these constructs showed altered conformations, and assessment of translation kinetics by ribosome profiling revealed differences in local translation kinetics. Assessment of wild-type and recoded constructs using a major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-associated peptide proteomics assay showed distinct presentation of FIX-derived peptides bound to MHC class II molecules, suggesting that despite identical amino acid sequence, recoded proteins could exhibit different immunogenicity risks. Posttranslational modification analysis indicated that overexpression from gene recoding results in suboptimal posttranslational processing. Overall, our results highlight potential functional and immunogenicity concerns associated with gene-recoded F9 products. These findings have general applicability and implications for other gene-recoded recombinant proteins.
Moringa Oleifera leaf extract induced pulmonary embolism-a case report
Authors: Ebhohon Ebehiwele , Miller Dwayvania
Published: April 2022

Background

M. oleifera leaf extract supplement is famous for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antifertility, anticancer, antihepatotoxic, and antiulcer properties. However, limited data exist on the coagulation effect of M. oleifera leaf extract in human plasma, which maybe a predisposing factor to venous thromboembolism (DVT and PE); a disorder that is well known to be induced by risk factors such as surgery, trauma, cancer, or prolonged immobility.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 63-year-old Hispanic female with past medical history of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented to the emergency room with a three-day history of worsening shortness of breath and chest pain. Computerized tomography-pulmonary angiogram (CT-PA) revealed bilateral pulmonary embolism (PE) and right ventricle strain. Based on CT imaging findings, the absence of a major transient risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), no history suggestive of an underlying hypercoagulable disorder, and a medication history that was significant for a recent 5-month use of M. oleifera leaf extract that has been reported to induce clot formation, she was diagnosed as a rare case of sub-massive pulmonary embolism provoked by M. oleifera leaf extract supplement. She received initial anticoagulation (AC) during her hospitalization and was discharged on maintenance AC for 3 months.

Discussion and conclusion

We report the first case of PE likely triggered by using Moringa oleifera leaf extract herbal supplement. Cohort studies on the coagulation effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract in humans are necessary to determine the relationship between Moringa Oleifera leaf extract and VTEs.
Uncarboxylated osteocalcin promotes proliferation and metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells through TGF-β/SMAD3 signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Jiaojiao , Ma Luyao , Wang Danqing , Yang Jianhong
Published: April 2022

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most severe type of breast cancer owing to its high heterogeneity, aggressiveness and lack of treatment. Studies have reported that uncarboxylated osteocalcin (GluOC) promotes the development of prostate and other cancers. Studies have also found elevated levels of serum osteocalcin in breast cancer patients with bone metastasis, and serum osteocalcin can be a marker of bone metastasis. However, whether GluOC promotes the development of TNBC and the related mechanisms need to be further clarified.

Results

Our results revealed that GluOC is associated with the proliferation and metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells. GluOC increased the viability and proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells. In addition, GluOC enhanced the metastatic ability of MDA-MB-231 cells by promoting the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP13), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We also found that GluOC upregulated the expression of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) genes in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Moreover, the promoting effect of GluOC was reversed in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with specific inhibitor of SMAD3 (SIS3), a SMAD3 phosphorylation inhibitor.

Conclusion

Our research proved for the first time that GluOC facilitates the proliferation and metastasis of MDA-MB-231 cells by accelerating the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/SMAD3 signaling pathway. Moreover, GluOC also promotes the gene expression of IL-8 and PTHrP. Both IL-8 and PTHrP can act as osteolytic factors in breast cancer cells. This study indicates that GluOC may be a useful target for preventing TNBC bone metastasis.
Multi-trait genomic prediction using in-season physiological parameters increases prediction accuracy of complex traits in US wheat
Authors: Shahi Dipendra , Guo Jia , Pradhan Sumit , Khan Jahangir , AVCI Muhsin , Khan Naeem , McBreen Jordan , Bai Guihua , Reynolds Matthew , Foulkes John , Babar Md Ali
Published: April 2022

Background

Recently genomic selection (GS) has emerged as an important tool for plant breeders to select superior genotypes. Multi-trait (MT) prediction model provides an opportunity to improve the predictive ability of expensive and labor-intensive traits. In this study, we assessed the potential use of a MT genomic prediction model by incorporating two physiological traits (canopy temperature, CT and normalized difference vegetation index, NDVI) to predict 5 complex primary traits (harvest index, HI; grain yield, GY; grain number, GN; spike partitioning index, SPI; fruiting efiiciency, FE) using two cross-validation schemes CV1 and CV2.

Results

In this study, we evaluated 236 wheat genotypes in two locations in 2 years. The wheat genotypes were genotyped with genotyping by sequencing approach which generated 27,466 SNPs. MT-CV2 (multi-trait cross validation 2) model improved predictive ability by 4.8 to 138.5% compared to ST-CV1(single-trait cross validation 1). However, the predictive ability of MT-CV1 was not significantly different compared to the ST-CV1 model.

Conclusions

The study showed that the genomic prediction of complex traits such as HI, GN, and GY can be improved when correlated secondary traits (cheaper and easier phenotyping) are used. MT genomic selection could accelerate breeding cycles and improve genetic gain for complex traits in wheat and other crops.