bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Inattentional Blindness Through the Lens of Fear Chemosignals
Authors: Semin Gün R. , DePhillips Michael , Gomes Nuno
Published: November 2023

Inattentional blindness is a phenomenon wherein people fail to perceive obvious stimuli within their vision, sometimes leading to dramatic consequences. Research on the effects of fear chemosignals suggests that they facilitate receivers’ sensory acquisition. We aimed to examine the interplay between these phenomena, investigating whether exposure to fear chemosignals (vs. rest body odors) can reduce the inattentional-blindness handicap. Utilizing a virtual-reality aquarium, we asked participants to count how many morsels a school of fish consumed while two unexpected stimuli swam by. We predicted that participants exposed to fear chemosignals ( N = 131) would detect unexpected stimuli significantly more often than participants exposed to rest body odors ( N = 125). All participants were adult Portuguese university students aged 18 to 40 years. The results confirmed our hypothesis, χ2(1) = 6.10,  p = .014, revealing that exposure to fear chemosignals significantly increased the detection of unexpected stimuli by about 10%. The implications of our findings open a novel avenue for reducing the adverse consequences of inattentional blindness.
Referral and evaluation for kidney transplantation among patients with lupus nephritis-related end-stage kidney disease
Authors: McPherson Laura , Plantinga Laura C , Howards Penelope P , Kramer Michael , Pastan Stephen O , Patzer Rachel E
Published: November 2023

Objective

For the majority of patients with lupus nephritis-related end-stage kidney disease (LN-ESKD), kidney transplant is associated with better outcomes than dialysis. Access to kidney transplant requires an initial referral to a transplant center and medical evaluation prior to waitlisting. The study’s objective was to examine access to these early steps in the kidney transplant process among patients with LN-ESKD.

Methods

Adults who began treatment for ESKD in the Southeast, Northeast, New York, or Ohio River Valley U.S. regions from 1/1/2012 to 12/31/2019, followed through 6/30/2021, were identified from the United States Renal Data System. Referral and evaluation start data were collected from 28 of 48 transplant centers across these regions. The exposure was primary cause of ESKD (LN-ESKD vs other-ESKD). The outcomes were referral and evaluation start at a transplant center. Cox models quantified the association between LN-ESKD (vs other-ESKD) and referral and evaluation start.

Results

Among 192,318 patients initiating treatment for ESKD, 0.4% had LN-ESKD. Over half (58%) of LN-ESKD patients were referred before study end, and among those referred, 66% started the evaluation. In adjusted analyses, patients with LN-ESKD were referred (HR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.19) and started the transplant evaluation (HR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.00, 1.28) at a higher rate than patients with other-ESKD. Among referred patients with LN-ESKD, the median time from ESKD start to referral was 2.9 months (IQR: <1 to 11.7 months), which is similar to patients with other-ESKD (median 2.6 months, IQR: <1 to 8.8 months).

Conclusions

Among incident patients with ESKD, having a primary diagnosis of LN-ESKD versus other-ESKD is associated with higher rates of early transplant access outcomes. Despite this, patients with LN-ESKD (vs other-ESKD) are less likely to be preemptively referred (i.e., referred prior to ESKD start) for kidney transplant. While providers may no longer be delaying the early steps in the kidney transplantation process among this patient population, there is still room for improvement in the rates of preemptive referral. Access to kidney transplant referral prior to ESKD could result in increased transplant rates and better transplant outcomes for patients with LN-ESKD.
Cardiovascular disease risk perceptions and influencing factors among Chinese systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Zhang Yuge , Yu Juan , Zhao Wenjing , Zhang Min , Bao Qing , Zhang Hailing
Published: December 2023

Background

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus patients (SLE) are at a higher risk of cardiovascular events than the general population. This study aimed to investigate the risk perception of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and to analyze its influence factors among Chinese SLE patients.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Convenience sampling was used to select 201 patients with SLE who had attended the outpatient and inpatient departments of the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology at the First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China from November 2022 to March 2023. The following were used in the study: the Chinese version of the Attitudes and Beliefs about Cardiovascular Disease Risk Questionnaire, the Social Support Rating Scale, the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Health Literacy Management Scale, and sociodemographic and disease-related data.

Results

The mean (standard deviation) risk perception score of CVD patients with SLE was 57.18 ± 13.02. A Pearson correlation analysis showed that CVD risk perceptions were positively correlated with health literacy ( r = 0.152, p < .05) and depression ( r = 0.277, p < .05), and negatively correlated with social support ( r = −0.393, p < .05) and psychological resilience ( r = −0.374, p < .05). A multiple linear regression analysis showed that body mass index (BMI), family history, health literacy, depression, social support, and psychological resilience were the main factors influencing CVD risk perceptions among Chinese SLE patients ( p < .05).

Conclusions

Body mass index, family history, health literacy, depression, social support, and psychological resilience influenced CVD risk perceptions among Chinese SLE patients. Healthcare workers should objectively and accurately assess the levels of CVD risk perception among SLE patients, identify the risk factors of CVD, adopt effective health risk communication strategies to help patients develop appropriate risk perceptions, and raise risk awareness to adopt active coping approaches to reduce risk.
The Moral Psychology of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ladak Ali , Loughnan Steve , Wilks Matti
Published: December 2023

Artificial intelligences (AIs), although often perceived as mere tools, have increasingly advanced cognitive and social capacities. In response, psychologists are studying people’s perceptions of AIs as moral agents (entities that can do right and wrong) and moral patients (entities that can be targets of right and wrong actions). This article reviews the extent to which people see AIs as moral agents and patients and how they feel about such AIs. We also examine how characteristics about ourselves and the AIs affect attributions of moral agency and patiency. We find multiple factors that contribute to attributions of moral agency and patiency in AIs, some of which overlap with attributions of morality to humans (e.g., mind perception) and some that are unique (e.g., sci-fi fan identity). We identify several future directions, including studying agency and patiency attributions to the latest generation of chatbots and to likely more advanced future AIs that are being rapidly developed.
“There’s So Much More Support We Could Have Provided”: Child Life Specialists’ Stories of the Challenges Working in Adult Oncology
Authors: Taneja Shipra , Vanstone Meredith , Lysecki David L. , McKean Heather , Bainbridge Daryl , Sussman Jonathan , Molinaro Monica
Published: December 2023

A cancer diagnosis in patients who are parents of minor children is uniquely stressful for both parents and children. Children need developmentally appropriate information and support to help reduce their fears and worries. Child life specialists (CLSs) are health professionals who work in pediatric environments to support children and families with the stress and uncertainty of illnesses. Increasingly, CLSs have been called upon to support children of patients in adult clinical environments. Our objective was to elucidate CLS caregiving narratives related to working with children of adult cancer patients. We used narrative inquiry to interview four CLSs working in adult oncology. Canadian CLSs who have experience providing care for children and families affected by parental cancer were recruited via convenience sampling. We used narrative analysis methods that included multiple close reads of the data, generating narrative themes, and noting conflicts or tensions in the data. CLSs’ caregiving stories often highlighted the complexities of working in an adult oncology environment. Their narratives included challenges in providing optimal care to the children, including family-level barriers (such as parental wishes to withhold information from their children) and systemic barriers (such as late referrals and limited options for bereavement support). CLS participants identified several challenges of working with families in adult oncology. The CLSs highlighted a desire for additional institutional support for children of adult oncology patients and for themselves working in these environments in order to achieve what they believed to be optimal care.
A Community Mental Health and Well-Being University Level Course: Design and Implementation
Authors: Pozzulo Joanna , Vettese Alexia , Stone Anna
Published: November 2023

Background: Community mental health is growing discipline in psychology that recognizes the importance of creating a community that fosters wellness. Although universities provide many individuals a sense of community, little research has examined how community mental health interventions can be implemented into a classroom setting. Purpose: This paper provides a proof of concept of a university course that was created to give students the opportunity to interact with their campus community while receiving course credit over two semesters. Approach: In the first semester, the course provided students with content and theory as it relates to community mental health, well-being, and health promotion. The second semester implemented experiential learning, where students applied knowledge and skills to a placement related to mental health and well-being within their university. Conclusions: This university course can provide benefits to the university (e.g., cost-efficiency), the students (e.g., networking), and the community (e.g., accessible mental health services). This research presents a course framework that other post-secondary institutions can build upon and implement into their own programs. Implications: Future research should focus on implementing experiential learning courses that provide opportunities in the mental health field for undergraduate psychology students to facilitate post-graduate student success.
Characteristics of orthopaedic implants damage and mechanisms of its initiation
Authors: Łukaszewicz Adrian , Kopec Mateusz , Szczęsny Grzegorz , Kowalewski Zbigniew L
Published: November 2023

Implant fractures complicate orthopaedic procedures requiring secondary surgeries. However, it is not exactly known when the damage initiation starts and which factors predispose them to the highest degree. Thus, the aim of the study was to characterize changes observed in orthopaedic implants after their removal from the bone. Particular efforts were made to determine, which of them occur during the process of its production, installation, usage and removal. Such identification enabled to specify the role of lesions emerging during each period and their role in the implant’s deformation or fracture. The paper was focused on implants dedicated to the stabilization of the femur fractures since the bone transfers the highest loads. External surface and geometric features of eight representative implants were observed under standard and stereoscopic cameras, as well as under light and scanning electron microscopes. Macroscopic analysis of the investigated implants exhibited a number of defects in the form of scratches, abrasions, deformations and chipping. The wear degree of each implant was different and strictly depended on how it was implanted in the patient's body, as well as on how the patient exploited it through his mobility. Four different sources of implant integrity changes were identified: manufacturing-related changes, implant application-related changes, daily life-related changes and implant removal-related changes.
Factors Associated With Permanency for Children in Out-Of-Home Placement: A Survival Analysis
Authors: Ahn Haksoon , Williams Kimberly , Kim Jinyung , Moeller Elsa
Published: November 2023

Achieving permanency is a main goal of the child welfare system. To promote timely achievement of permanency, it is important to understand the determinants associated with permanency outcomes. This study aims to examine the length of time children spend in foster care and identify factors associated with achievement of permanency using administrative data from one state spanning a six-year timeframe and including a final sample of 1,874 children. Determinants associated with achievement of permanency were examined through multivariate survival analyses using Cox proportional hazards regression models. The median length of time in days to achieve permanency was: 188 for reunification, 505 for guardianship, and 932 for adoption. Race/ethnicity, age at removal, number of placement changes, number of siblings, having a removal family team decision meeting (FTDM), and placement type were significantly associated with achievement of permanency. Given the findings, this article proposes implications for practice and policy surrounding racial disproportionality, family engagement, kinship care, and placement stability.
An Exploratory Analysis of Temporal and Spatial Patterns of Autonomous Vehicle Collisions
Authors: Patel Ronik Ketankumar , Channamallu Sai Sneha , Khan Muhammad Arif , Kermanshachi Sharareh , Pamidimukkala Apurva
Published: November 2023

Recent advancements in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology have the potential to reduce road accidents caused by human error. However, to enhance their safety and performance, it is crucial to understand the patterns of AV collisions. This study examines AV collisions by analyzing their temporal and spatial patterns. Based on reports from the California DMV between 2014 and 2022, the analysis reveals that rear-end collisions are the most common type, while incidents involving pedestrians and overturned vehicles are rare. The majority of collisions involve mid-sized vehicles, and AVs are responsible for a minority of accidents. The study also identifies clusters of incidents in San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles, and San Diego, with San Francisco having largest concentration. Specific areas within San Francisco, like Mission District, Japantown, Union Square, and North Beach neighborhoods, show high incident rates. These findings highlight safety concerns, and aid in integration of AVs into transportation infrastructure.
Urban Game Dynamics: How Game Designers, Curators, and Players Create New Possibilities
Authors: Macklin Colleen
Published: November 2023

Urban games, by using the city as a medium, temporarily surface underlying ideologies and systems influencing urban life. This paper explores the political potential of this medium anchored by interviews with urban game makers/organizers and the strategies they have developed to bring inclusive, safe, and enlightening forms of play and public engagement to the city.
Effectiveness of a blended booster programme for the long-term outcome of cognitive behavioural therapy for MS-related fatigue: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: de Gier Marieke , Beckerman Heleen , Twisk Jos WR , Knoop Hans , de Groot Vincent
Published: November 2023

Background:

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) reduces MS-related fatigue. However, studies on the long-term effects show inconsistent findings.

Objective:

To evaluate whether a blended booster programme improves the outcome of CBT for MS-related fatigue on fatigue severity at 1-year follow-up.

Method:

A multicentre randomized clinical trial in which 126 patients with MS were allocated to either a booster programme or no booster programme (control), after following 20-week tailored CBT for MS-related fatigue. Primary outcome was fatigue severity assessed with the Checklist Individual Strength fatigue subscale 1 year after start of treatment (T52). Mixed model analysis was performed by a statistician blinded for treatment-allocation to determine between-group differences in fatigue severity.

Results:

Fatigue severity at 1-year follow-up did not differ significantly between the booster ( N = 62) and control condition ( N = 64) ( B = −2.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −4.76 to 0.75). No significant increase in fatigue severity was found at T52 compared with directly post-treatment (T20) in both conditions ( B = 0.44, 95% CI = −0.97 to 1.85).

Conclusion:

Effects of CBT were sustained up to 1 year in both conditions. The booster programme did not significantly improve the long-term outcome of CBT for MS-related fatigue.

Trial registration:

Dutch Trial Register (NTR6966), registered 18 January 2018 https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/6782
Study on acoustic performance of new spiral sound absorbing and insulating metamaterial
Authors: Liu Song , Liu Pan-pan , Zhao Ren-jie , Lu Jian-hua , Yang Kang , Zhou Huayu , Du Yi-fan
Published: November 2023

Middle and low frequency band sound waves have strong penetration and diffraction abilities during the propagation process, making it difficult to attenuate. The control of middle and low frequency broadband sound waves has become a challenging topic. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new materials or structures with middle and low frequency sound absorption, insulation, and noise reduction functions. The special properties of acoustic metamaterial provide new ideas for the development of sound absorption and insulation. In order to effectively control the noise in the lower frequency band, a new spatial spiral acoustic metamaterial was designed. First, the mechanism of band gap characteristics of a new spatial spiral acoustic metamaterial is analyzed. Then, a new spatial spiral acoustic metamaterial is completed through the finite element software COMSOL Multiphysics and the calculation and analysis of sound absorption and insulation performance in the 100–2500 Hz frequency band are completed. With the help of 3D printing, the preparation of metamaterial is completed, and the comparative experimental study of sound absorption and insulation performance of spiral acoustic metamaterial is carried out to verify the accuracy of the calculation method.
Translating, co-creating, and performing: Reflections on a 15-year journey for impact into the grand challenge of disaster insurance
Authors: Jarzabkowski Paula , Bednarek Rebecca , Chalkias Konstantinos , Cacciatori Eugenia , Kavas Mustafa , Krull Elisabeth , Gallagher Rodgers Rhianna
Published: November 2023

The grand challenges society faces compel strategy and organization scholars to engage meaningfully with practice and contribute toward solution development. As global complexities escalate, the importance of addressing these challenges intensifies. While the notion of “impact” in organization theory remains elusive, a recent surge in scholarly work highlights the tensions and challenges associated with conducting impact-driven research. In this essay, we reflect on our 15-year program of research into financial responses to disasters, illustrating the process of doing impact through activities of “translating, ‘co-creating,” and “performing.” We show how these activities fostered the emergence of new research questions, new collaborations, and novel impacts. Based on our journey, we generate four reflexive insights. First, translating, co-creating, and performing are an iterative, rather than sequential, process in which these activities partly overlap and build cumulatively on each other. Second, a flexible yet robust impact object is crucial. Third, while co-creation is indispensable, it is also, often, contentious. Finally, impactful research necessitates humility, courage, and persistence.
Neurons Are GIRKed in GNB1 Encephalopathy: Unraveling Pathogenic Mechanisms in a Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder
Authors: Wagnon Jacy L.
Published: December 2023

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Exploratory Analysis of Decision-Making Biases of Professional Red Teamers in a Cyber-Attack Dataset
Authors: Gutzwiller Robert S. , Rheem Hansol , Ferguson-Walter Kimberly J. , Lewis Christina M. , Johnson Chelsea K. , Major Maxine
Published: November 2023

Attacker psychology is currently under-examined in cybersecurity research. A prior, large-scale study sought to understand attackers’ behavior by testing both technological and psychological deception. Professional “red team” members participated over two days in various conditions. This data was examined for further evidence that cognitive biases, a potential disruption for attackers, may be present, and may be affecting the outcome. An applied, novel methodology for measuring confirmation bias and framing effects is presented using this realistic dataset. Both confirmation bias and the framing effect occurred in this interpretation. The framing effect appears to have reduced attacker interactions with systems in the network, which may benefit cyber defenders. These results provide additional, exploratory evidence that biases in the decision-making of cyber attackers could be used as part of a defensive cyber strategy. Limitations to the approach and directions for future study of attackers are discussed.
Scaled TelePhysical Therapy Program a Promising Option for Post-acute Care of Lower-Extremity Arthroplasty Patients
Authors: Fisher Charles , Wysin Catherine , Moeller Lauren , Nguyen Joseph
Published: November 2023

Background:

Post-acute care for orthopedic surgery patients continues to evolve with the reduction in hospital length of stay (LOS), shift to ambulatory surgery, increased number of surgeries, and focus on value-based care.

Purpose:

We sought to examine outcomes of a cohort of lower-extremity arthroplasty patients receiving telephysical therapy (TelePT) according to hospital LOS, as a means of exploring the viability of TelePT as a value-based discharge option.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of patients who participated in our institution’s HSS@Home TelePT program after undergoing primary unilateral hip or knee arthroplasty, unicondylar knee replacement, or hip resurfacing. Demographic data and outcomes such as hospital LOS, number of days between discharge and TelePT evaluation, number of TelePT visits, number of re-admissions, Hip dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome (HOOS Jr.) or Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome (KOOS Jr.) scores, and patient satisfaction scores were collected. Patients were divided into categories based on hospital LOS to help determine the versatility of program.

Results:

In the 2814 patients included, we observed an average of 4.1 TelePT visits; 1% of patients were readmitted within 90 days, and 97% of patients were satisfied or highly satisfied. There was no difference in HOOS or KOOS Jr. scores at each follow-up time point, except for the 6-month HOOS Jr. scores.

Conclusion:

This retrospective study suggests that TelePT may be a viable option for care of lower-extremity arthroplasty patients in the post-acute setting, regardless of hospital LOS. As a discharge option, it may meet the needs of select patients to fill a gap in providing value-based care.
Frameworks for Synthesizing Qualitative Evidence in Health Technology Assessment: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Marques Rafael Thomaz , Machado-Rugolo Juliana , Thabane Lehana , Vantone Meredith , Püschel Vilanice Alves de Araujo , Weber Silke Anna Thereza , Cardoso Marilia Mastrocolla de Almeida
Published: November 2023

Health Technology Assessment (HTA) agencies and researchers recognize that evidence-based methodologies should be based on more than just quantitative evidence. Qualitative data enable evaluation based on feasibility, appropriateness, meaningfulness, patient values and preferences, acceptability, and equity. Despite some guidelines explaining how to conduct evidence synthesis of qualitative data, a specific framework or guideline for the HTA recommendation process is only recent and requires clarification . This scoping review aims to describe the frameworks, tools, and processes used to synthesize qualitative evidence and rate the quality of HTA. This scoping review follows the JBI methodology. The databases accessed were Medline (Pubmed), LILACS, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, JBI Database, and ScienceDirect. Grey literature was searched on PROQUEST, Open Grey, CADTH’s Grey Matters, Google Scholar, and HTA Agencies’ websites. The inclusion criterion was the synthesis of qualitative evidence frameworks as a concept, which refers to methods to synthesize evidence and rate the quality of evidence. HTA is applied worldwide, and there is no specific population . Data are presented in a tabular format and include fundamental concepts, frameworks, methods, subjects, and objectives.
The Spread of Beliefs in Partially Modularized Communities
Authors: Goldstone Robert L. , Dubova Marina , Aiyappa Rachith , Edinger Andy
Published: November 2023

Many life-influencing social networks are characterized by considerable informational isolation. People within a community are far more likely to share beliefs than people who are part of different communities. The spread of useful information across communities is impeded by echo chambers (far greater connectivity within than between communities) and filter bubbles (more influence of beliefs by connected neighbors within than between communities). We apply the tools of network analysis to organize our understanding of the spread of beliefs across modularized communities and to predict the effect of individual and group parameters on the dynamics and distribution of beliefs. In our Spread of Beliefs in Modularized Communities (SBMC) framework, a stochastic block model generates social networks with variable degrees of modularity, beliefs have different observable utilities, individuals change their beliefs on the basis of summed or average evidence (or intermediate decision rules), and parameterized stochasticity introduces randomness into decisions. SBMC simulations show surprising patterns; for example, increasing out-group connectivity does not always improve group performance, adding randomness to decisions can promote performance, and decision rules that sum rather than average evidence can improve group performance, as measured by the average utility of beliefs that the agents adopt. Overall, the results suggest that intermediate degrees of belief exploration are beneficial for the spread of useful beliefs in a community, and so parameters that pull in opposite directions on an explore–exploit continuum are usefully paired.
The Efficiency of Highly Porous β-Tricalcium Phosphate With Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate in Midfoot Joint Arthrodesis
Authors: Lee Wonyong , Prat Dan , Chao Wen , Farber Daniel C. , Wang Carol , Wapner Keith L.
Published: November 2023

Background

Nonunion is one of the most common and devastating complications following midfoot joint arthrodesis. Many different types of bone grafts and bone substitutes have been used to promote osseous fusion. However, there is no consensus on the gold standard bone grafting material and whether biologic materials should be used alone or in combination. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficiency of highly porous β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) in midfoot joint arthrodesis.

Methods

This retrospective comparative study included patients who underwent midfoot joint arthrodesis using compression screws. Patients were classified into 2 groups: arthrodesis with highly porous β-TCP and BMAC (group A) and arthrodesis without them (group B). The osseous union rate was compared between the 2 groups. A total of 44 patients (46 feet) including 89 joints were included in this study.

Results

There was a significant difference in the union rate between the 2 groups: 91.5% (43/47 joints) in arthrodesis with highly porous β-TCP and BMAC (group A) and 76.2% (32/42 joints) in arthrodesis without highly porous β-TCP and BMAC (group B; P = .048).

Conclusion

This study investigated the efficiency of highly porous β-TCP and BMAC to promote bony healing in midfoot joint arthrodesis. A significantly higher union rate was shown when arthrodesis was performed with highly porous β-TCP and BMAC, compared with arthrodesis performed without them. We suggest that highly porous β-TCP and BMAC can be a viable and effective adjunct to the fixation in midfoot joint arthrodesis.

Level of Evidence:

Level III: Retrospective comparative analysis
Landmarks for a Minimally Invasive Approach for Haglund’s Deformity: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Mateen Sara , Cottom James , Jappar Asma , Siddiqui Noman A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Haglund’s deformity is a posterosuperior calcaneal prominence often associated with a painful bursa and insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Endoscopic debridement has been previously described; however, the aim of this cadaveric study is to describe landmarks of a minimally invasive surgical (MIS) approach to Haglund’s deformity.

Methods

Twelve specimens were dissected to identify medial and lateral portals for minimally invasive burr placement and anchor placement. A standard ruler was used to measure the distance in millimeters from the medial and lateral neurovascular structures in relation to medial and lateral portals. A separate 7-cm longitudinal incision posterior to the lateral malleolus and a separate 7-cm longitudinal incision posterior to the medial malleolus were made to identify at-risk neurovascular structures

Results

The average distance from the sural nerve to the lateral portal was 25.7 mm (23-26). The mean distance from the lateral calcaneal branch of the sural nerve to lateral portal was 11.4 mm (10-12). The mean distance from the tibial nerve to the medial portal was 35.3 mm (35-36). Both the medial and lateral incisions were 9.3 mm from the calcaneal tuberosity

Conclusion

The results indicate that the MIS approach to Haglund’s deformity resection can be performed reliably without neurovascular compromise.

Levels of Evidence:

Level IV
Special considerations in paediatric dental trauma
Authors: Némat Shimal M. , Kenny Kate P. , Day Peter F.
Published: November 2023

Traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) in the paediatric population are common and frequently seen in general dental practice. The management of TDIs can be challenging and, in most cases, the General Dental Practitioner is tasked with the initial assessment and emergency treatment. Patients and their families typically attend with elevated levels of distress, which is complicated by the limited dental experience of some children. Behaviour management is essential and helps prepare patients for dental care at both their emergency and follow-up appointments. Early and accurate diagnosis in combination with appropriate treatment contributes to favourable outcomes for traumatised teeth. Early discussions with or referral to paediatric dental teams for management of complex TDIs is encouraged, however shared follow-up care is beneficial over the long-term. In specific cases, initial dental treatment can be delayed by a few days to a subsequent appointment, allowing the dental team to book sufficient time for the treatment and for the patient and their families to prepare. Education of the patients and adults with parental responsibility is essential to manage expectations, explain likely complications and encourage attendance for long-term follow-up visits. This paper discusses the management of paediatric patients to aid the primary care practitioner in providing effective immediate and long-term care.
Implementing a Formalized Risk-Based Approach to Determine Candidacy for Multidisciplinary CKD Care: A Descriptive Cohort Study
Authors: Donald Maoliosa , Weaver Robert G. , Smekal Michelle , Thomas Chandra , Quinn Robert R. , Manns Braden J. , Tonelli Marcello , Bello Aminu , Harrison Tyrone G. , Tangri Navdeep , Hemmelgarn Brenda R.
Published: December 2023

Background:

The kidney failure risk equation (KFRE) can be used to predict progression to end-stage kidney disease in a clinical setting.

Objective:

Evaluate implementation of a formalized risk-based approach in nephrologists’ outpatient clinics and multidisciplinary chronic kidney disease (CKD) clinics to determine candidacy for multidisciplinary care, and the impact of CKD care selection on clinical outcomes.

Design:

Population-based descriptive cohort study.

Setting:

Alberta Kidney Care South.

Patients:

Adults attending or considered for a multidisciplinary CKD clinic between April 1, 2017, and March 31, 2019.

Measurements:

Exposure—The course of CKD care assigned by the nephrologist: management at multidisciplinary CKD clinic; management by a nephrologist or primary care physician. Primary Outcome—CKD progression, defined as commencement of kidney replacement therapy (KRT). Secondary Outcomes—Death, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations.

Methods:

We linked operational data from the clinics (available until March 31, 2019) with administrative health and laboratory data (available until March 31, 2020). Comparisons among patient groups, courses of care, and clinical settings with negative binomial regression count models and calculated unadjusted and fully adjusted incidence rate ratios. For the all-cause death outcome, we used Cox survival models to calculate unadjusted and fully adjusted hazard ratios.

Results:

Of the 1748 patients for whom a KFRE was completed, 1347 (77%) remained in or were admitted to a multidisciplinary CKD clinic, 310 (18%) were managed by a nephrologist only, and 91 (5%) were referred back for management by their primary care physician. There was a much higher kidney failure risk among patients who remained at or were admitted to a multidisciplinary CKD clinic (median 2-year risk of 34.7% compared with 3.6% and 0.8% who remained with a nephrologist or primary care physician, respectively). None of the people managed by their primary care physician alone commenced KRT, while only 2 (0.6%) managed by a nephrologist without multidisciplinary CKD care commenced KRT. The rates of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and death were lower in those assigned to management outside the multidisciplinary CKD clinics when compared with those managed in the multidisciplinary care setting.

Limitations:

The follow-up period may not have been long enough to determine outcomes, and potentially limited generalizability given variability of care in multidisciplinary clinics.

Conclusions:

Our findings indicate that a portion of patients can be directed to less resource-intensive care without a higher risk of adverse events.

Trial registration:

Not applicable.
The impact of the air pollution on health in New York City
Authors: Mananga Eugene S , Lopez Erika , Diop Aissata , Dongomale Paulin JT , Diane Fambougouri
Published: November 2023

New York City is attempting to find a solution to an issue that many states and cities face: how to minimize air pollution so that it has fewer negative impacts on human health. Despite having the highest population in the United States (US), New York City typically has reasonably clean air. As the City and State of New York have worked to reduce emissions from local and regional sources, the air quality in New York City has improved during the past few decades. Despite these advancements, air pollution still poses a severe hazard to the health of everyone living in New York’s environment. Various diseases including respiratory, circulatory, neurological, gastrointestinal, and urinary illnesses, which can be fatal, are intimately associated with air pollution. This review article will concentrate on how air pollution affects respiratory diseases such as asthma in children. In addition to analyzing the severe effects of air pollution on the vulnerable population, this review article will highlight the health repercussions of air pollution on New York City and its residents. furthermore, we argue for potential ideas and discoveries while also putting up a policy option to lower air pollution.
Bordering in the archives: An investigation into a digital archive of the Irish asylum and refugee determination
Authors: Brown Sasha
Published: November 2023

Creating borders and borderlands is a key role of the contemporary state. Drawing on an investigation of the Irish state bordering complex determining asylum and refugee claims in Ireland, this article illustrates the importance of the actions of individual state agents and the cultures of practice in state agencies in bordering and statecraft. Building on scholarship studying the state, I conceive of statecraft as cultures of practices, understood within a feminist geopolitical framework. Studying these cultures of practice reveals the ways state agencies and state agents produce knowledge and how they work within complex power-geometries of social and political geographies. I investigate the Irish asylum determination process using an archival ethnography methodology to encounter an online archive of refugee appeals decisions in Ireland. This article shows one result of this encounter: a published database of asylum decision patterns and practices of the refugee appeals tribunals and of individual Tribunal members issuing decisions to people seeking asylum in Ireland. I argue this approach: (1) addresses real needs for systematic evidence of practice of Tribunal members, as requested by asylum seekers and legal representatives; (2) investigates cultures of practice in decision-making bodies in the asylum complex of the Irish state; (3) and shows the importance of archives of asylum decision-making in the state practice of bordering and statecraft. Analysis shows an asylum determination culture heavily dependent on who is doing the deciding, the decision-maker assigned is a major element in outcomes of asylum claims. I also propose a framework for identifying statecraft and bordering as the collective project of groups and individuals embedded within the state; this framework provides productive and systematic evidence of bordering and the ways individuals and groups go about doing statecraft in the asylum determination process.
Introduction to special issue: “Scaled ethnographies of toxic flows”
Authors: Dewan Camelia , Sibilia Elizabeth A
Published: November 2023

Societal concerns over ‘toxic’ substances have become ubiquitous as human and more-than-human entanglements with toxicity are ever-increasing; people are now living in a ‘permanently polluted world’. Ethnographies that focus specifically on making visible the uneven geographies of ‘toxic flows’ expand interdisciplinary research on the spatialization of a ‘toxic’ politics. By highlighting the structural inequalities of poisonous exposure in everyday life, the papers in this edited collection underscore the dynamic material conditions and interrelations of toxicity inherent in the global ‘frictions’ of late-stage capitalism. Focusing on embodied experiences of toxic exposure in differentiated landscapes among working-class peoples, scheduled castes, ethnic minorities and other-than-human populations, the articles in this themed issue use ‘toxic’ with ‘flows’ as a spatial and conceptual framework to reframe and challenge ideas of the political. The spatial politics of seeking to contain flows of toxic substances are fraught in tensions in ways that may open up possibilities for, as well as limit, political agency. Here, we recognize both intimate activism and individual coping strategies as well as how resignation and denial of toxic effects may thwart efforts of political mobilization while operating to naturalize the violence of toxicity. The ethnographies in this special issue help to visualize and reconceptualize geographies of structural inequalities while they also offer glimpses of what non-toxic geographies might look like.
Which Lenders are More Likely to Reach Out to Underserved Consumers: Banks Versus Fintechs Versus Other Nonbanks?
Authors: Dolson Erik , Jagtiani Julapa
Published: November 2023

There has been a great deal of interest recently in understanding the potential role of fintech firms in expanding credit access to underbanked and credit-constrained consumers. We explore the supply side of fintech `credit, focusing on unsecured personal loans and mortgage loans. We investigate whether fintech firms are more likely than other lenders to reach out to “underserved consumers,” such as minorities; those with low income, low credit scores, or thin credit histories; or those who have a history of being denied for credit. Using a rich data set of credit offers from Mintel, in conjunction with credit information from TransUnion (TU) and other consumer credit data from the FRBNY Consumer Credit Panel/Equifax Data, we compare similar credit offers that were made by banks, fintech firms, and other nonbank lenders. Fintech firms are more likely than banks to offer mortgage credit to consumers with lower-income, lower-credit scores, and those who have been denied credit in the recent past. Fintechs are also more likely than banks to offer personal loans to consumers who had filed for bankruptcy (thus also more likely to receive credit card offers overall) and those who had recently been denied credit. For both personal loans and mortgage loans, fintech firms are more likely than other lenders to reach out and offer credit to nonprime consumers.
Neighbourhoods in shaping migrant integration: A study of peri-urban Beijing
Authors: Liu Siyao
Published: November 2023

The question of how (im)migrants integrate into their host societies has long been a focus of scholarly research. This article adds to this body of knowledge by examining how different types of neighbourhoods shape the integration experience of migrant residents and their daily practice in peri-urban Beijing. The study was conducted by non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews in four peri-urban Beijing neighbourhoods. The findings suggest that migrant integration has a spatial dimension, with integration differences being enhanced and fixed through residential differentiation. Specifically, a migrant’s position in the urban economy predetermines their integration path and neighbourhood preference, with the neighbourhood further impacting their social integration through embedded lifestyles and ideologies. Neighbourhoods serve as essential places of shared experience in which distinct migrant social groups are formed. Theoretically, the study contributes to the debate between ethnic enclaves and mixed neighbourhoods by arguing that mixed neighbourhoods foster stronger sentiments toward host cities among migrant residents. The failure of integration is not necessarily a result of a neighbourhood’s homogenous tenure and population but rather because residents are not involved in the formal urban economy. Unlike ethnoburbs in America, urban villages in peri-urban Beijing cannot generate upward social mobility because of the informality. Low-skilled migrant entrepreneurs struggle to develop their informal businesses facing unpredictable demolishment of urban villages.
Title: Machine Learning Models for Basophil Enumeration and Its Potential Application for Chronic Myeloid Leukemias in Flow Cytometric Analysis
Authors: Liu Xiaolong Sean
Published: December 2023

Background: In marrow, basophil counts are low but may increase in reactive or neoplastic conditions including chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). The current basophil enumeration by the gating approach is operator dependent with variable accuracy. Objective: To enumerate basophils and to compare basophil and granulocyte counts between potential CML cases (pCMLs) and controls using machine learning (ML) models. Research Methods: pCMLs and controls (117 and 883 marrow samples, respectively) were selected using key-word search from flow-cytometry (FC) reports. In general, pCMLs had both granulocytosis and basophilia pending tests for t(9;22). The datasets were from an antibody panel - FS_SS_HLA-DR_CD33_CD34_CD117_CD45. Three preliminary models, the basophil enumeration model (BEM), granulocyte enumeration model (GEM), and granulocyte-basophil model (GBM) were used (data not published). GBM incorporates basophil and granulocyte counts from BEM and GEM, and separates the cases into two groups, GB-1 with high granulocyte and basophil counts and GB-2 with low basophil and/or granulocyte counts. Results: BEM revealed higher basophil counts in pCMLs than those in the controls (median: 734 vs. 54). However, 35 (5%) of the controls had >390 basophils (≥25 percentile in pCMLs) (Figure-1). GBM classified 96 (90%) pCMLs as GB-1 and 11 as GB-2. Conversely, GBM classified 74 (10%) controls as GB-1 and the remaining 672 as GB-2 (Figure-2). Multiple scatter plots in figure 1-a illustrate two-dimensional distributions of a basophil cluster in a pCML case (green: CD117-positive basophils [often increased in pCML]; red: CD117-negative basophils). Conclusion: In experimental setting, BEM is an efficient high-throughput alternative for basophil enumeration with high consistency and is opterator-independent. GBM could separate pCMLs from most controls automatically. Future ML models will use confirmed CML-cases and additional antibody markers in a multicolor FC platform.
Day 100 Inhibitory KIR2DL2 and Activating NKp30 Natural Killer Cell Receptors Predicts Survival Post-Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Lymphomas
Authors: Porrata Luis , Ansell Stephen M , Micallef Ivana , Johnston Patrick B , Villasboas J. C. C , Paludo Jonas , Durani Urshila , Markovic Svetomir
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Our group previously published that the infusion autograft inhibitor KIR2DL2 (CD158b+CD337-) and activating NKp30 (CD158b- CD337+) Natural killer (NK) cells receptors were predictors of clinical outcomes in lymphoma patients undergoing autologous peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (APBHSCT) (Porrata et al. Leukemia Research 2019; 81: 1-9). To assess if these subsets of NK cells still hold clinical relevance, we set up to investigate their prognostic ability to predict clinical outcomes at Day 100 post-APBHSCT.

Methods: 107 lymphoma patients who participated in our double-blind phase III trail (Porrata et al, Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation 2016; 22(6); 1017-1023) and had clinical assessment at Day 100 post-APBHSCT were included in this study. Nkp30 and KIR2DL2 at Day 100 were assessed by flow cytometry analysis.

Results: With a median follow-up for the entire cohort from Day 100 was 94.7 months (range: 4.83-158.1 months). Figure 1 shows the overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) based on the absolute numbers of KIR2DL2 and Nkp30 NK cells. At Day 100, patients with a KIR2DL2 < 0.08 and Nkp30 ≥0.19 experienced superior OS and PFS compared with patients with a Day 100 KIR2DLD2 ≥0.08 and NKp30 < 0.19. In the multivariate analysis both the KIR2DL2 [OS: HR = 1.767, 95%CI, 1.302-30.31, p < 0.04; and PFS: HR = 2.663, 95%CI, 1.108-6.403, p < 0.03] and Nkp30 [OS: HR = 2.594, 95% CI, 1.239-5.432, p < 0.01; and PFS: HR = 3.676, 95% CI, 1.875-7.206, p < 0.01] were independent predictors for OS and PFS.

Conclusion: Day 100 inhibitory KIR2DL2 and activating NKp30 NK cells are prognostic immune-biomarkers in lymphoma patients undergoing APBHSCT.