bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence Surrounding Dietary Behavior Interventions in Community-Dwelling Stroke Survivors: A Scoping Review
Authors: Bailey Ryan R. , Neri Alfonso L. , Serra Monica C.
Published: November 2022

Objective: To identify and summarize studies that have implemented dietary behavior interventions and reported dietary outcomes in community-dwelling adult stroke survivors. Design: Scoping Review; Setting: Not applicable. Participants: Studies eligible for review included peer-reviewed studies describing both a dietary intervention and a dietary outcome among community-dwelling stroke survivors published between January 2000 and June 2022. Results: We identified 14 articles that included both a dietary behavior intervention and a dietary outcome. All studies (5 pilot randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 6 non-pilot RCTs, 3 cohort studies) delivered multimodal health behavior interventions that included a dietary component. Interventions were delivered weekly to every other month and lasted for 1–24 months. Most studies did not use standardized assessments to assess dietary outcomes; however, 8 studies reported improvement in dietary outcomes. Conclusions: This review provides support for the efficacy of dietary behavior interventions in stroke survivors. Variability in intervention format and assessment measures across studies impedes the ability to conduct meta-analyses of outcomes to inform research knowledge and clinical practice. Additional research is needed to determine mechanisms-of-action for dietary behavior change in stroke survivors.
Factors related to insufficient hemostasis using the EXOSEAL vascular closure device with five-minutes compression for femoral artery punctures after neuro-endovascular therapy: A retrospective, single-center experience
Authors: Izawa Daisuke , Matsumoto Hiroyuki , Nishiyama Hirokazu , Nakayama Yukie , Maeshima Kazuhide
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The aim was to identify the factors related to inadequate hemostasis with five minutes of manual compression using the EXOSEAL vascular closure device (VCD), and to evaluate the optimal time to hemostasis (TTH).

Methods

A total of 119 consecutive patients who underwent neuro-endovascular therapy via common femoral arterial puncture between February 2019 and August 2021 were included. These patients underwent hemostasis using an EXOSEAL with manual compression for five minutes. In this retrospective study, the 119 patients were divided into two groups: (1) achieved hemostasis with five minutes (n = 76); and (2) required more than five minutes to achieve hemostasis (n = 43, Add group). In both groups, patient's characteristics, endovascular procedures, and closure procedures were assessed.

Results

On univariable analysis, activated clotting time (ACT), multiple antiplatelets, closure with an under-sized EXOSEAL VCD (U-VCD), endovascular procedure, and use of a 7Fr. VCD were significantly associated with additional compression ( p < 0.05). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, the following three factors were found to be associated with additional compression: pre-closure ACT (adjusted OR, 0.136; 95% CI, 1.017–1.056; p < 0.001); multiple antithrombotics (adjusted OR, 12.843; 95% CI, 3.458–47.693; p < 0.001); and closure with a U-VCD (adjusted OR, 5.653; 95% CI, 1.751–18.151; p = 0.004). On the receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis for prediction of the need for additional compression, the cutoff point for pre-closure ACT was calculated to be 268 s. In the Add group, mean TTH was 9.8 ± 1.5 min.

Conclusion

Multiple antiplatelets and closure with a U-VCD may increase the risk of insufficient hemostasis with five-minutes compression using an EXOSEAL VCD for femoral puncture sites if the pre-closure ACT is greater than 268 s. In these patients, mean TTH was 9.8 ± 1.5 min.
Safety and efficacy of adjunct tirofiban treatment following mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) resulting in successful reperfusion
Authors: Zhong Hai-long , Zhou Teng-fei , He Ying-kun , Li Tian-xiao , Li Zhao-shuo
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

Tirofiban administration after mechanical thrombectomy (MT) remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of adjunct tirofiban treatment following MT for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO) that resulted in successful reperfusion on digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted in Zhengzhou University University People's Hospital, an advanced stroke center in China. Consecutive patients with AIS who underwent endovascular therapy (EVT) were enrolled from June 2018 to January 2022. The safety endpoints were symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), total intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), and 3-month mortality. The efficacy endpoints were 3-month modified Rankin scale (mRS) score and 24-h neurological improvement.

Results

A total of 145 consecutive patients with AIS who underwent MT were analyzed, of whom 51 (35.2%) patients were in the tirofiban group. There were 30 (20.7%) patients with sICH, 50 (34.5%) patients suffered from ICH within 24-h post-MT, and 47 (32.4%) dead at 3-month. Besides, 31 (21.4%) patients achieved excellent clinical outcomes (mRS, 0-1), and 24-h neurological improvement was found in 29 (20.0%) patients. No statistically significant differences were found in safety outcomes on sICH, total ICH, and 3-month mortality, as well as efficacy outcomes on 3-month mRS scores (0-1) and 24-h neurological improvement between the two groups ( P > 0.05 for all). Additionally, tirofiban was associated with 3-month mRS scores of 0-2 (adjusted odds ratio (OR), 3.75; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.41–10.02, P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Adjunct tirofiban treatment following MT for AIS patients with LVO that resulted in successful reperfusion on DSA was not correlated with the increased risk of safety endpoints on sICH, ICH, and 3-month mortality, and it may be associated with a lower 3-month mRS score.
Design optimization of a solenoid actuator using particle swarm optimization algorithm with multiple objectives
Authors: Abedinifar Masoud , Ertugrul Seniz , Tayyar Gokhan Tansel
Published: November 2022

Solenoid actuators are well-known components that convert electromagnetic energy into mechanical energy. For control purposes, it is requested to have a high magnetic force that stays almost constant in the working region of the actuator. To meet these requirements, it is necessary to have an optimal geometrical design of the actuator. In this study, the following steps are performed to optimize the geometry of the solenoid actuator. The Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is performed, and the results of the simulation is verified with the experimental data. The effect of all geometrical parameters on the characteristics of the magnetic force is investigated. The parameters that highly affect the magnetic force are chosen as design optimization parameters. Then, the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is realized to find optimal parameters. The algorithm consists of two objective functions being combined into a single objective function. It includes a higher and more consistent magnetic force in the effective working region of the solenoid. Finally, the solenoid actuator with optimized parameters is manufactured, and the results are compared. They show that the optimized solenoid actuator satisfies one of the objective functions, and magnetic force stays almost constant in the working region of the solenoid actuator.
Human blood metabolites and lacunar stroke: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Guo Meng-Nan , Hao Xiao-Yan , Tian Jie , Wang Yun-Chao , Li Jia-Di , Fan Yu , Shi Jing-Jing , Ma Dong-Rui , Li Shuang-Jie , Zuo Chun-Yan , Liang Yuan-Yuan , Li Meng-Jie , Shen Si , Liu Fen , Yao Da-Bao , Xu Yu-Ming , Shi Chang-He
Published: November 2022

Background:

Lacunar stroke accounts for a quarter of all strokes, but little is known about the underlying pathological mechanisms. Analysis of serum metabolites may allow better understanding of the underlying biological processes. Mendelian randomization (MR) can provide information on the causality of associations.

Aims:

To identify causal relationships between serum metabolites and lacunar stroke.

Methods:

We applied a two-sample MR analysis to evaluate relationships between 486 serum metabolites and lacunar stroke. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was used to estimate the causal relationship of the exposure on the outcome, while sensitivity analyses were performed using MR-Egger, weighted median, and MR-PRESSO to eliminate the pleiotropy. We also performed a metabolic pathway analysis to identify potential metabolic pathways.

Results:

We identified 15 known (8 risk and 7 protective) and 14 unknown serum metabolites associated with lacunar stroke. Among the known risk metabolites, two were lipids (1-linoleoylglycerophosphoethanolamine and dihomo-linolenate (20:3n3 or n6)), five amino acids (kynurenine, isobutyrylcarnitine, aspartate, trans-4-hydroxyproline, and 3-methyl-2-oxovalerate), and one peptide (ADSGEGDFXAEGGGVR). The known protective metabolites included four lipids (4-androsten-3beta,17beta-diol disulfate 1, 1-palmitoleoylglycerophosphocholine, adrenate (22:4n6), and glycodeoxycholate), one amino acid (methionine), and two exogenous metabolites (homostachydrine and 2-methoxyacetaminophen sulfate). Metabolic pathway analysis identified several pathways that might be involved in the disease.

Conclusion:

We identified eight risk and seven protective human serum metabolites associated with lacunar stroke. Isobutyrylcarnitine was positively associated with an increased risk of lacunar stroke. In addition, 3-methyl-2-oxovalerate and aspartate may be involved in the disease pathogenesis through metabolic pathways.
Why Live Music Matters: Implications from Streaming Music Festivals in the Chinese Indie Music Scene
Authors: Zhao Sicong
Published: November 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a new form of live music – streaming music festivals – has been popularised in China. With a particular reference to the Chinese indie music scene, this article critically examines the changes that streaming music festivals bring to audiences and music. Through a comparison to offline live music activities, this article examines the spatial change and its consequences for audiences, the shift of shared meaning within indie music communities, and the alteration in the value of music. This article argues, based on interviews and online ethnography, that by immersing themselves in live music, indie music lovers position themselves in multiple social relationships, seek shared meanings with peers, and construct the self through cultural participation; however, streaming music festivals cannot achieve similar effects as offline live music. The findings help us understand more about the digital trend of live music and allow us to reflect on what ‘live’ really means to the audience and the music.
Does growth mindset benefit mental health in Asia? Evidence from Chinese students
Authors: Huang Zihang , Shi Yuanyuan , Wang Yuqi
Published: November 2022

Growth mindset has shown its unique potential in countering the growing prevalence of mental distress in the general population. However, the role culture plays in this process remains somewhat unanswered. In the current prospective study, we tested if early growth mindset of Chinese university students predicts less mental distress later, and how cultural values (i.e., individualism–collectivism, traditionality–modernity) affect the process. We found that growth mindset was prospectively predictive of mental conditions, and the positive effect of growth mindset was more salient among students endorsing lower collectivistic and higher modern cultural values. Our findings added evidence to the potential benefits of growth mindsets in an Asian context and highlighted the role of cultural values.
Effects of tension band plating on coronal plane alignment of lower extremities in children treated for idiopathic limb length discrepancy
Authors: Erdal Ozan A , Gorgun Baris , Razi Ozan , Sarikaya Ilker A , Inan Muharrem
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

One of the most common treatment methods for moderate limb length discrepancy in children is growth modulation using tension band plating. Coronal plane deformities after tension band plating for limb length discrepancy have been documented as an important complication in articles involving heterogeneous groups consisted of both idiopathic cases and patients with pathological physes. The aim of the study was to determine the rate of coronal plane deformities after treatment of a homogeneous group of idiopathic limb length discrepancy cases with tension band plating and to compare screw constructs of medial and lateral plates.

Methods:

Patient files were retrospectively reviewed for amount of limb length discrepancy, anatomical femorotibial angle, mechanical lateral distal femoral angle, mechanical medial proximal tibial angle, and inter-screw angles of each plate on both sides of the tibiae and femora. Measurements at each follow-up period were compared to each other.

Results:

A total of 26 patient files (37 bones) were included to the study. The mean age was 10.5 years. The mean limb length discrepancy was 27.5 mm. Implants were removed after mean 34.5 months. The mean follow-up period was 58.5 months. There was no significant difference in inter-screw angle on each side of the bones at the time of implantation and in lower limb alignments during follow-up.

Conclusion:

Treatment of mild-to-moderate idiopathic limb length discrepancy with tension band plating in children was found to be safe against any coronal plane deformity during follow-up until skeletal maturity.

Level of evidence:

Level IV.
Alizarin as a New Activator of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lu Yin-Che , Kuan Yu-Hsiang , Lin Chih-Yi , Chou Yu-Ting , Chen Shan-Chun , Gao Guan-Lun , Hsu Chiang Wei , Su Jyan-Gwo Joseph
Published: November 2022

Alizarin (1,2-dihydroxyanthraquinone) is a natural red dye extracted from the roots of Rubia cordifolia L. (family Rubiaceae). Alizarin has been used as a biological red stain for calcium. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has critical roles in multiple physiological pathways. This study aimed to determine whether alizarin is an unreported ligand of AhR. In the present study, we investigated the effects on cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 mRNA, protein expression, AhR nuclear translocation, aryl hydrocarbon response element (AHRE) reporter activity, and AhR-specific antagonist following alizarin treatment of cells of the human hepatoma cell line, HepG2, and murine hepatoma cell line, Hepa-1c1c7. Alizarin induced CYP1A1 mRNA and protein expression in HepG2 and Hep-1c1c7 cells. Such induction was not present in C4 (B13NBii1) cells, which are AhR signal deficient, C12 (B15ECiii2) cells, which reduce AhR protein levels. The alizarin-induced responses were blocked by CH-223191, which is an AhR antagonist. Alizarin, the same as with the AhR ligand, induced the nuclear localization of AhR, as well as stimulated the transcriptional activity of AHRE. The results of this study suggest that alizarin is an AhR agonist.
Planes, trains, and automobiles: Commuting in the 2020s and beyond
Authors: Wiese Christopher W. , Calderwood Charles
Published: November 2022

In this introduction to the special issue about commuting, we invite readers to consider how this frequently occurring worker activity should be integrated and investigated within the organizational sciences. Commuting is ubiquitous in organizational life. Yet, despite this centrality, it remains one of the most understudied topics in the organizational sciences. This special issue seeks to remedy this oversight by introducing seven articles that review the literature, identify knowledge gaps, theorize through an organization science lens, and provide directions for future research. We introduce these seven articles by discussing how they address three cross-cutting themes (Challenging the Status Quo, Insights into the Commuting Experience, The Future of Commuting). We hope that the work within this special issue informs and inspires organizational scholars to engage in meaningful interdisciplinary research on commuting going forward.

Plain Language Summary

This special issue aims to encourage readers to consider how commuting research can and should be investigated within the organizational sciences. Commuting is a frequently occurring activity of daily living, but remains one of the most understudied topics in the organizational sciences. This special issue aims to address this issue through seven papers which review the literature, identify knowledge gaps, offer theoretical advancement, and yield future research directions. We introduce these seven articles via the presentation of three cross-cutting themes (Challenging the Status Quo, Insights into the Commuting Experience, The Future of Commuting). Our goal is that this special issue will inform and inspire future organizational science research on commuting.
Learning accountable governance: Challenges and perspectives for data-intensive health research networks
Authors: Muller Sam HA , Mostert Menno , van Delden Johannes JM , Schillemans Thomas , van Thiel Ghislaine JMW
Published: November 2022

Current challenges to sustaining public support for health data research have directed attention to the governance of data-intensive health research networks. Accountability is hailed as an important element of trustworthy governance frameworks for data-intensive health research networks. Yet the extent to which adequate accountability regimes in data-intensive health research networks are currently realized is questionable. Current governance of data-intensive health research networks is dominated by the limitations of a drawing board approach. As a way forward, we propose a stronger focus on accountability as learning to achieve accountable governance. As an important step in that direction, we provide two pathways: (1) developing an integrated structure for decision-making and (2) establishing a dialogue in ongoing deliberative processes. Suitable places for learning accountability to thrive are dedicated governing bodies as well as specialized committees, panels or boards which bear and guide the development of governance in data-intensive health research networks. A continuous accountability process which comprises learning and interaction accommodates the diversity of expectations, responsibilities and tasks in data-intensive health research networks to achieve responsible and effective governance.
The effects of trait resilience and rumination on psychological adaptation to breast cancer
Authors: Tu Pei-Chiung
Published: November 2022

This cross-sectional study examined the effect of trait resilience and specific types of rumination on positive psychological adaptation post-diagnosis among 201 breast cancer patients. They completed self-reported measures describing trait resilience, rumination, posttraumatic growth, and health-related quality of life. Hierarchical analysis showed that trait resilience significantly predicted higher quality of life and posttraumatic growth after controlling for demographic and clinical variables. Additionally, “intrusion” and “brooding” subtypes of rumination negatively predicted quality of life, with “instrumentality” positively predicting quality of life and posttraumatic growth, suggesting the importance of trait resilience and multidimensional rumination for positive psychological changes among breast cancer survivors.
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy outcomes in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with dimethyl fumarate
Authors: Lyons Jennifer , Hughes Richard , McCarthy Kerry , Everage Nicholas , Kapadia Shivani , Miller Catherine , Singhal Priya , Smirnakis Karen
Published: November 2022

Background and objectives

Dimethyl fumarate (DMF), an oral disease-modifying therapy with an established benefit and well-described safety profile, is among the most commonly used therapies for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. As of 31 December 2021, >560,000 patients have been treated with DMF, representing >1,190,000 person-years of exposure. Of these, 6413 patients (14,292 person-years) were from clinical trials.

Methods and results

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) has occurred in the setting of lymphopenia (<0.91 × 109/L) in patients treated with DMF. We present detailed clinical characteristics and outcomes of the 12 confirmed PML cases occurring in MS patients on DMF as of 21 July 2021. The PML incidence in DMF-treated patients is 1.07 per 100,000 person-years of DMF exposure. Lymphopenia is the common risk for PML in DMF treatment.

Discussion

DMF-related PML is rare but has occurred in the setting of lymphopenia, supporting the current recommendations for absolute lymphocyte count monitoring in all patients, regardless of age and time on therapy.
Digitalization of public diplomacy: Concepts, trends, and challenges
Authors: Manor Ilan , Huang Zhao Alexandre
Published: November 2022

Dr. Ilan Manor is a leading scholar in the digitalization of public diplomacy and a senior lecturer at the Ben Gurion University of the Negev. From the beginning of his academic career, Dr. Manor invested in researching the digitalized practices and strategies of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and conceptualized the expression “the digitalization of public diplomacy” to explore how digital technologies shape the norms, values, and working routines of diplomats and diplomatic institutions. Based on the hypothesis of transparency as the core of social media technology, Dr. Manor mentioned that diplomacy has also had to become more open, especially in public diplomacy. Traditional secret diplomatic negotiations are under universal scrutiny by netizens because they are digitalized. Thus, the public wants diplomats to be more open and transparent in their professional activities. However, digitalization also brought a series of communication problems, especially in the time of geopolitical uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war. In the academic dialogue, Dr. Manor has analyzed the conceptualization, practices, and challenges of the digitalization of public diplomacy in the framework of the current geopolitical context and global crisis and reviewed the long-term conceptual debate in public diplomacy scholarship on the value of soft power in the digital age. The last part of this dialogue focused on using visual supports in the international communication arena, criticizing the omnipresent use of memes and gifs of the Russian and Ukrainian governments during the war and questioning the public(s) in the digitalization of public diplomacy.
Risk of Mortality for Proximal Femoral Fracture in Patients With and Without COVID-19. A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Holub Ashley , Jornet-Gibert Montsant , Ruppenkamp Jill , Holy Chantal E. , Daccach Juan , Torner Pere , Caba-Doussoux Pedro , Muñoz Vives Josep Maria
Published: November 2022

Background

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) has resulted in a widespread loss of lives, morbidity, and major disruptions to the healthcare system. Hip fractures are an emergent condition which require early intervention to reduce increased risk of mortality and morbidity. Infection of SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to increased mortality due to the role of infection and immune response. This study investigated the impact of COVID-19 infection (defined by clinical symptoms) on mortality following proximal femoral fracture (PFF) repair procedures.

Methods

This study was a retrospective cohort study. Data from the Premier Healthcare Database® was extracted for patients presenting for PFF during 2019 for control, and February 2020-September 2020 to represent a COVID time-period.

Results

A total of N = 73 953 subjects were enrolled for the 2019 period, and a total of N = 34 842 subjects were enrolled for the COVID period. For the 2019 period, subjects who had a PFF procedure and who had flu/COVID-like illness had 2.47 (CI:2.11, 2.88) times the odds of mortality compared to those who did not have flu/COVID-like illness. Subjects who had a PFF procedure and who had flu/COVID-like illness during the COVID period had 2.85 times (CI:2.36, 3.42) the odds of mortality compared to those who did not have flu/COVID-like illness. For the COVID period, within subjects who did not have a PFF procedure, those with flu/COVID-like illness had increased odds of mortality compared to those who did not have flu/COVID-like illness (OR:2.26, CI:1.57, 3.21).

Conclusions

Hip fractures present high risk for mortality and morbidity, where timely intervention is critical to improved outcomes. Presence of infection such as flu/COVID-like illness may influence mortality in patients undergoing hip fracture repair procedures. Consideration of infection status as a comorbidity is important to proper management and achieving optimal outcomes.
The Risk of Adverse Events in Smokers Undergoing Spinal Fusion: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nunna Ravi S. , Ansari Darius , Ostrov Philip B. , Dettori Joseph R. , Godolias Periklis , Ortiz-Torres Michael , Elias Elias , Gruber Max , Oskouian Rod J. , Chapman Jens R.
Published: November 2022

Study Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives

Determine if tobacco use is associated with increased risk of postoperative adverse events within 90 days in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery.

Methods

Databases were queried to identify cohort studies that directly compared smokers with non-smokers and provided the absolute number of adverse events and the population at risk. Data quality was evaluated using the Quality in Prognosis Studies tool. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated and compared between studies. The grading of recommendation, assessment, development and evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used to assess the strength of the evidence.

Results

Seventeen studies assessing 37 897 participants met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 10 031 (26.5%) were smokers and 27 866 (73.5%) were nonsmokers. The mean age for the study population was 58 years, and 45% were males. Smoking was not associated with increased risk of one or more major adverse events within 90 days following spine surgery (seven studies, pooled RR 1.13, 95% CI [.75-1.71], I2 = 41%). However, smoking was significantly associated with one or more major adverse events in ≤2 level fusion (three studies, pooled RR 2.46, 95% CI [1.18-5.12], I2 = 0%), but not in fusions of ≥3 levels (four studies, pooled RR .87, 95% CI [.70-1.08], I2 = 0%). Additionally, there was no statistically significant association between smoking and any adverse event, nor increased reoperation risk due to adverse events.

Conclusions

In this meta-analysis, tobacco use was not associated with a statistically significant increased risk of adverse events within 90 days in patients undergoing spinal fusion surgery. Our results are limited by the variable reporting methodology for both complication rates as well as smoking incidence between the included individual studies.
What Preoperative Factors Are Associated With Achieving a Clinically Meaningful Improvement and Satisfaction After Single-Level Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis?
Authors: Moorthy Vikaesh , Goh Graham S. , Cheong Soh Reuben Chee
Published: November 2022

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to identify preoperative factors associated with clinically meaningful improvement, patient satisfaction and expectation fulfilment at 2 years follow-up in patients undergoing single-level TLIF for degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Methods

Patients who underwent a primary, single-level TLIF for degenerative spondylolisthesis between 2006 and 2015 were identified from a prospectively maintained institutional spine registry. Baseline characteristics and PROMs including the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), 36-Item Short-Form Physical Component Score (SF-36 PCS), Mental Component Score (SF-36 MCS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) back pain, and VAS leg pain were collected preoperatively, at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 2 years.

Results

A total of 997 patients were included. Multivariate analyses showed that increasing age (OR 1.039, P < .001) and better preoperative ODI (OR .984, P = .018) were associated with achieving minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for VAS Back. Increasing age (OR 1.032, P = .007) and better preoperative VAS Back (OR .783, P < .001) were associated with achieving MCID for VAS Leg. Lower BMI (OR .952, P = .024) and better preoperative ODI (OR .976, P < .001) were associated with achieving MCID for SF-36 PCS. Importantly, a better preoperative SF-36 MCS was associated with MCID attainment for ODI (OR 1.038, P < .001), satisfaction (OR 1.034, P < .001) and expectation fulfilment (OR 1.024, P < .001).

Conclusion

Patients who were older, have less preoperative disability and better preoperative mental health were significantly more likely to attain clinically meaningful improvement in PROMs and postoperative satisfaction after single-level TLIF. Identification of these factors would aid surgeons in patient selection and surgical counselling for single-level TLIF.
Navigating through the mists of cross-cultural journey: unpacking international scholars’ acculturation strategies at Chinese universities
Authors: Chen Jiexiu , Sun Yifei , Zhu Junwen
Published: November 2022

In the context of rapid development of internationalisation in Chinese higher education, as well as the increasing mobility of academics across country borders, more and more international scholars are seeking career opportunities in Chinese universities. Using 21 in-depth interviews, we investigated international scholars’ acculturation strategies at Chinese universities through Berry’s theoretical tools. We find that the adaptability of experienced international scholars are key indicators that have successfully led participants to achieve integration strategy, and we demonstrate how a lack of response and feedback from the institution might lead participants to the status of marginalisation and separation. Moreover, we emphasise that the individual strategy is not always freely chosen, but largely impacted and constrained by the contextual feature of institutional culture. We highlight the importance of notifying the dynamic nature of cross-cultural adaptation, and recognise the fluidity ingrained in this process.
Book review: Joao Leitao, Vanessa Ratten and Vitor Braga (Eds), Latin American and Iberian Entrepreneurship: New Perspectives on Culture, Traditions and Heritage (Management Science)
Authors: Tabassum Naznin
Published: November 2022

Joao Leitao, Vanessa Ratten and Vitor Braga (Eds), Latin American and Iberian Entrepreneurship: New Perspectives on Culture, Traditions and Heritage (Management Science). Cham: Springer, 2022, 177pp., £99.99 (GBP). ISBN: 978-3-030-97698-9.
Investing in a Social Venture to Generate Social Impact or Financial Return
Authors: Urban Boris , Mapula-e Lehasa Odifentse
Published: November 2022

Recognizing that the current literature provides a fragmented depiction of impact investor decisions, this article empirically examines if impact investors are focused on financial returns or instead on the social impact generated by social enterprises. To address this research objective a sample of impact investors are surveyed in South Africa, where there is an increasing demand for impact investors to fund initiatives that address the country’s many underlying structural deficits and wicked problems. Findings, based on correlational and regression analyses, indicate that variation in the impact investment decision is explained by the financial return motive. This finding resonates with the argument that investors are primarily focused on financial competitiveness and return on their investment. Developing a strong body of evidence that validates the effectiveness of policy in supporting impact investing is pivotal, particularly when given the lack of sustainability of many social enterprises in African and emerging economies.
Elements of Innovation Culture Influencing Individual Research and Development (R&D) Performance in Public Higher Education Institutions in the Philippines
Authors: Leron Paul Jersey G. , Baconguis Rowena dT.
Published: November 2022

This study explored the elements of innovation culture influencing individual performance of research and development (R&D) personnel. It employed quantitative research wherein innovation culture and R&D performance assessment tools were developed and administered to 115 R&D personnel in public higher education institutions (HEIs). Individual performance in terms of quantity of R&D outputs such as inventions, utility models, other intellectual property (IP) and creations, and scientific publications were assessed. Spearman’s rank-order correlation test showed significant association between inclusivity, continuous improvement, creativity, learning organization, innovativeness, communication system, innovation process, and the innovative teams and groups and performance of R&D personnel. Furthermore, the ordinal logistic regression analysis showed that freedom, orientation to technological innovation, innovation process, creativity, flexibility, openness, continuous improvement, learning organization, innovative teams/groups and individuals can influence individual performance of R&D personnel in public HEIs. This study added to our understanding of innovation culture in public or government organizations by providing empirical information on its validity and applicability, which can help analyse its elements in relation to individual performance. It gave insights on how each element of innovation culture can influence individual performance, particularly the production of R&D outputs in public HEIs.
The Experiences, Challenges and Acceptance of Online Food Application by the Consumers and the Enhancement of Value Through Blockchain Technology
Authors: Mathur Purvi , Mathur Vidhu
Published: November 2022

Technology has played a role to revolutionise the food delivery service from phone based to online ordering to satiate consumers’ ever-shifting demands, making its way to the top. Today, the business of food delivery services is one of the fastest segments of e-commerce. This study is conducted to know how consumer expectations from online food service providers. Customer value creation is the utmost requirement for the sustainability of these services. To create value the bottlenecks need to be removed from the service process to enhance highest quality of customer experience through the application of blockchain technology. This paper studies the relationship between information quality and availability at various levels with customer satisfaction through a technology adoption model and value creation through blockchain.
Do Fetal Development Markers Influence Attitudes toward Abortion Legality?
Authors: Bueno Xiana , LaRoche Kathryn J. , Crawford Brandon L. , Turner Ronna C. , Lo Wen-Juo , Jozkowski Kristen N.
Published: November 2022

In the United States, legislation intended to limit abortion access based on fetal development markers (e.g., heartbeat, fetal pain) has become increasingly common. We found that people’s support for legal abortion decreases when survey items mention fetal developmental markers compared with items that do not. However, the majority of participants supported access to legal abortion in health-related circumstances or pregnancies as a result of rape at the detection of a fetal heartbeat. Using terms that personify the fetus may evoke responses from participants that limit their endorsement of abortion. Thus, including this terminology in the public and political discourse seems to influence abortion attitudes. This might have implications related to electoral outcomes which eventually determine whether pregnant people are guaranteed access to abortion.
Incorporating networks in semantic understanding of streetscapes: Contextualising active mobility decisions
Authors: Yap Winston , Chang Jiat-Hwee , Biljecki Filip
Published: November 2022

Planning for active mobility satisfies many fundamental tenets of good urban design and planning. However, planning for active mobility is a complex endeavour due to numerous local, place-based factors that influence active mobility decisions. Recent advancements in urban data research have demonstrated the effectiveness of deep learning methods in evaluating active mobility potential for urban environments. At present, the incorporation of semantic information from deep learning models and street view imagery into spatio-temporal contexts remains a challenge. In particular, knowledge extraction from deep learning models remains an open question for urban planning and decision-making. Towards this issue, we propose a functional deep learning and network science workflow that employs open data from OpenStreetMap and Mapillary to assess factors affecting active mobility decisions and route planning. We demonstrate the generalisability of our analytical workflow through two case studies focusing on urban greenery in Nerima city (Japan) and urban visual complexity in Pasir Ris town (Singapore). Our results reveal clear patterns of heterogeneity in urban streetscapes and identify unevenness in street infrastructure provision based on destination types. Using this information, we propose specific areas for design intervention to improve active mobility planning. Our workflow is applicable for a diverse range of use cases making it relevant to a wide range of stakeholders, not limited to, urban researchers, policy makers and urban planners.
Impact of Stitch Density on Tactile Comfort Properties of Seams
Authors: Sadhna  , Kumar Rajesh , Maanvizhi M. , Prakash C. , Ramesh Babu V. , Indu G.K.
Published: November 2022

The impact of stitch density and seam type on tactile properties of seams has been investigated. Lapped seam 1 (LSa-1) using stitch class 605 and superimposed seam (SSa-2) using stitch class 514 (ASTM 6193) were constructed with four different stitch densities, namely, stitches per inch (SPI) 10, SPI 14, SPI 18 and SPI 22, and the tactile properties of seams examined by evaluating the characteristics of seams such as seam compression, seam thickness, seam bending behaviour and surface friction of seams. From the study, the optimized stitch density has been identified as SPI 10 for producing soft seam. Seam class and stitch density play a vital role in determining seam comfort properties.
Reliability of Inflammatory Markers as a Diagnostic Tool for Non-Diabetic Foot and Ankle Infections: Case Series Study
Authors: Barakat Ahmed , Ahmed Amr , White Helena , Mangwani Jitendra
Published: November 2022

Category:

Other; Ankle; Basic Sciences/Biologics; Hindfoot; Midfoot/Forefoot; Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

The distinction between foot and ankle wound healing complications as opposed to infection is crucial for the appropriate and efficacious allocation of antibiotic therapy. Multiple reports have focused on the diagnostic accuracy of different inflammatory markers, however, mainly in the diabetic population. Our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of white cell count (WCC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as diagnostic tools for this distinction in the non-diabetic cohort.

Methods:

Data were reviewed from a prospectively maintained Infectious Disease Unit database of 216 patients admitted at Leicester University Hospitals - the United Kingdom with musculoskeletal infections over the period between July 2014 and February 2020 (68 months). All patients with a confirmed diagnosis of diabetes were excluded while only those with a confirmed microbiological or clinical diagnosis of foot or ankle infection were included in our study. For the included patients, we retrospectively retrieved the inflammatory markers (WCCs and CRP) at the time of presentation and during the perioperative period for debridement. Values of CRP 0-10 mg/L and WCC 4.0-11.0 x109 /L were considered normal.

Results:

After the exclusion of patients with confirmed diabetes, 25 patients with confirmed foot or ankle infections were included. All infections were confirmed microbiologically with positive intra-operative culture results. 7 (28%) patients with osteomyelitis (OM) of the foot, 11 (44%) with OM of the ankle, 5 (20%) with ankle septic arthritis, and 2 (8%) patients with post- surgical wound infection were identified. Previous bony surgery was identified in 52% (n=13), either a corrective osteotomy or an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for a foot or ankle fracture with the infection developing on top of the existing metalwork. 84% (n=21) did have raised inflammatory markers while 16% (n=4) failed to mount an inflammatory response even with subsequent debridement and removal of metalwork. CRP sensitivity was 84%, while WCC sensitivity was only 28%.

Conclusion:

CRP has relatively good sensitivity in the diagnosis of foot and ankle infections in non-diabetic patients, whereas WCC is a poor inflammatory marker in the detection of such cases. In presence of a clinically high level of suspicion of foot or ankle infection, a normal CRP should not rule out the diagnosis of OM.
Use of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale to Predict Other Patient-Reported Outcome Measures Among Plantar Fasciitis and Chronic Ankle Instability Patients
Authors: Baxter Nicholas A. , Hoch Caroline P. , Reid Jared J. , Scott Daniel J. , Gross Christopher E.
Published: November 2022

Category:

Ankle; Hindfoot; Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) is a measure of how patients emotionally respond to pain. It is composed of three subscales - rumination, magnification, and helplessness - which address intrusive thoughts of pain, expectations of negative outcomes, and inability to cope with pain. The primary purpose of this study is to (1) compare baseline PCS scores with other baseline PROMs in patients with plantar fasciitis (PF) or chronic ankle instability (CAI).

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 201 patients who reported at least one pre-treatment PCS subscore (rumination=200, magnification=199, helplessness=196, total=194) and were diagnosed with PF (n=116) or CAI (n=98) between 2015 and 2020 in a single fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon's clinic. Forty-one (20.4%) patients underwent operative treatment by the primary surgeon and 29 (14.4%) were treated operatively prior to being seen by the primary surgeon. Demographics, comorbidities, treatments, other baseline patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (e.g., Visual Analogue Scale [VAS], Pain Disability Index [PDI], 12-Item Short Form Survey [SF-12], 8-Item Somatic Symptom Scale-8 [SSS-8]), and postoperative outcomes were recorded. The average follow-up was 183.92 (range, 0-1,820) days, while the average follow-up duration for the patients treated operatively was 190.56 (range, 15-468) days.

Results:

The PCS total score and its subscores significantly correlated with the total score and/or subscores of each PROM. Higher PCS total score significantly correlated with worse VAS (p<.001), SF-12 mental (p=.007), PDI total (p<.001), and SSS-8 (p<.001). Only the PCS magnification subscore was significantly greater among patients who did (n=41) undergo surgery (p=.043). Those who had previously undergone foot and/or ankle surgery had significantly higher PCS rumination (p=.012), magnification (p=.006), helplessness (p=.008), and total (p=.003) scores. Likewise, those with a history of substance abuse also had significantly higher PCS scores (p=.005; p=.003; p=.006; p=.003).

Conclusion:

Significant correlations between PCS scores and other baseline PROMs indicate that strong pain catastrophizers with PF or CAI could be at risk for poor treatment outcomes. PCS scores could be used to tailor treatments for such high-risk patients, as there is evidence regarding the positive impact of cognitive behavior therapy on high pain catastrophizers.
A Citation Analysis Study of the 50 Most-Cited Articles on the Achilles Tendon
Authors: Bernasconi Alessio , Sgadari Arianna , Izzo Antonio , Marasco Domenico , Lintz Francois , Netto Cesar de Cesar , Mariconda Massimo , Smeraglia Francesco
Published: November 2022

Category:

Other; Basic Sciences/Biologics

Introduction/Purpose:

Achilles tendon injuries represent one of the most common reasons of referral to orthopaedic surgeons. The purpose of this study was to determine the 50 most-cited articles on Achilles tendon pathologies in order to outline their characteristics, examine trends in publication and evaluate the correlation between citations and the quality of evidence.

Methods:

We searched Web of Science papers with the single keyword 'Achill*'. We identified and analyzed the top 50 most- cited articles and abstracted their characteristics. The methodological quality was assessed using the modified Coleman Methodology Score (mCMS). The correlation between the number of citations, the citation rate (citations/y), the impact factor of the journal for the year 2020 (JIF), the year of publication, the Level of Evidence (LoE), the type of study (tendon rupture, acute tendinopathy, chronic tendinopathy), the sample size and the mCMS was assessed through multiple bivariate analyses (Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficient).

Results:

Mean number of citations (+-SD) was 244 +- 88.8 (range, 657 to 157), with a total number of citations of 12.194 and a mean citation rate of 12.6 +- 5.4 (range, 28 to 3). The mean impact factor for the ten journals in which the 50 manuscripts were published was 5.1. The citation rate correlated with the number of citations (R=0.56, p<0.001), the year of publication (R=0.60, p<0.001) and the LoE (R=-0.37, p=0.022), but not with the citation rate (p=0.15). The year of publication correlated with the LoE as well (R=-0.43, p=0.008). Also, the quality of studies (in terms of mCMS) correlated with the impact factor of journals (R=0.35, p 0.03) and with the LoE (R=-0.48, p=0.003). Only 20 out of 39 primary studies (51%) had a prospective and comparative design, while 19 studies (48%) were classified as of poor quality (< 50 points using the mCMS).

Conclusion:

Most-cited articles in the field of Achilles tendon injuries have generally been published on high-impact journals. Although the impact factor positively correlates with the quality of studies, their methodology is poor in almost half of cases. The average Level of Evidence provided by studies and their citation rate are both significantly increasing over time. Citation-based indicators do not represent robust measures of quality in studies dealing with Achilles tendon pathologies.