bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pleurodesis using OK-432 for persistent pleural effusion after cardiac surgery in the neonatal period or early infancy
Authors: Nakata Tomohiro , Tachi Maiko , Yasuda Kenji , Nakashima Shigeki , Ikeda Tadashi , Minatoya Kenji , Oda Teiji
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of pleurodesis using OK-432 after cardiac surgery in the neonatal period or early infancy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 11 consecutive patients who underwent cardiac surgery in the neonatal period or early infancy and pleurodesis using OK-432 for persistent postoperative pleural effusion in two institutions.

Results

The median age at surgery was 8 days (interquartile range [IR], 2–18) with a body weight of 2.84 kg (IR, 2.30–3.07). The maximum amount of pleural drainage before pleurodesis was 94.7 (IR, 60.2–107.7) ml/kg/day. Pleurodesis was initiated at postoperative day 20 (IR, 17–22) and performed in bilateral pleural spaces in seven patients and unilateral in four. The median numbers of injection were 4 (IR, 3–6) times per patient and 3 (IR, 2–3) times per pleural space. In 10 patients, pleural effusion was decreased effectively, and drainage tubes were removed without reaccumulation within 15 (IR, 12–28) days after initial pleurodesis. However, in one patient, with severe lymphedema, pleural effusion was uncontrollable, resulting in death due to sepsis. Adverse events were observed in nine patients; temporal deterioration of lung compliance and arterial blood gas occurred in two, insufficient drainage requiring new chest tube(s) in five, temporal atrial tachyarrhythmia in one, and lymphedema in four.

Conclusions

Pleurodesis using OK-432 is effective and reliable for persistent postoperative pleural effusion in neonates and early infants. Most of the complications, which derived from inflammatory reactions, were temporary and controllable. However, severe lymphedema is difficult to control.
“Normally I Always Ask Briefly…”: How Patients and Healthcare Professionals in Oncology Construct Sexuality as a Delicate Topic
Authors: Kelder Irene , Klarenbeek Annette , Sneijder Petra
Published: December 2023

Oncology healthcare professionals (HCPs) and cancer patients often have difficulties in navigating conversations about sexual changes and concerns due to cancer and its treatments. The present study draws on Discursive Psychology to analyze how the topic of sexuality is raised and managed in Dutch oncological consultations. Our corpus consists of 28 audio recordings. We analyzed the discursive practices used by cancer patients and oncology HCPs and to what effect. Patients, on the one hand, employ vagueness, pronouns, and ellipses, while HCPs attribute talk to others and use generalizations and speech perturbations. Through these practices they collectively keep the topic of sexuality at a distance, thereby constructing it as a delicate topic. Moreover, we explicate the norms related to sexual behavior that cancer patients and oncology HCPs orient to in their talk. Finally, we address ways in which oncology HCPs can open the door on discussing sexual changes with their patients.
Investigation of Microstructure and Performance of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete for Transportation Infrastructure
Authors: Rashno Alireza , Adlparvar Mohamadreza , Izadinia Mohsen , Nadi Amir
Published: December 2023

This study examines the engineering properties of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) for use in construction and transportation infrastructure. The UHPC investigated in this study consists of three types of pozzolan, microsilica, nanosilica, and fly ash. It also contains two types of aggregate, garnet and basalt. In addition, it contains steel fibers. The study investigated the properties of fresh UHPC (slump flow, slump flow T50, L-box, and V-funnel), the mechanical properties of UHPC, including compressive and tensile strength, and its durability by analyzing volumetric water absorption, special electrical resistance, and performing the rapid chloride permeability test using scanning electron microscopy to examine the microstructure of UHPC. The results show that UHPC exhibits exceptional mechanical properties, such as high compressive and tensile strengths and remarkable durability, including reduced water absorption, increased special electrical resistance, decreased permeability to chlorine ions, and a negligible permeability range. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that UHPC is a unique material with excellent performance in various engineering applications, making it an ideal choice for construction projects and transportation infrastructures where high strength and long-lasting durability are required.
Social Concern Theory and Family Violence Among Latino Families
Authors: Zavala Egbert , Caraballo Krystlelynn
Published: December 2023

This paper examines whether Agnew’s Social Concern Theory can be applied to explain family violence perpetration among Latino families. Social concern theory maintains that people have biological inclinations to care for the welfare of others, desire close ties with certain individuals, follow certain moral intuitions, and conform to the behaviors of others. As such, this study tests whether an individual’s social capital (care about the welfare of others), familismo (desire for close ties), code of the streets (moral intuitions), and obligation to obey the police (conformity to social norms) is associated with family violence among a Latino sample. Using data from the El Paso Neighborhood Survey Project, which surveyed a random sample of 1,059 adults living in El Paso County, Texas in 2014, findings indicate that three of out of four theoretical constructs in the final model were found to be significant. Higher levels of social capital and familismo were associated with lower odds of perpetrating family violence, while code of the streets increased family violence. Obligation to obey the police was non-significant. Agnew’s theory modestly explained family violence among Latino families.
Integrated control strategy of semi-active suspension and in-wheel motors for handling limit of electric race car
Authors: Cheng Yiming , Hu Ruibo , Xu Wanqiu , Yu Liangyao
Published: December 2023

An integrated control strategy is proposed to deal with extreme driving conditions for race cars using magnetorheological (MR) semi-active suspension and in-wheel motors. A novel controllable boundary is introduced as the vehicle state supervisor based on the phase portrait of yaw rate and side slip angle. Compared with the traditional stable region, it can better cope with the aggressive behaviors of racing drivers. The proposed integrated control algorithm consists of a controllable boundary-based hierarchy direct yaw moment controller (HDYC) and acceleration-based scheduling MR damper controller. The HDYC will generate the correct yaw moment based on the sliding mode method when vehicle states exceed the critical area of the controllable region. The MR damper controller includes vehicle attitude control (VAC) mode and maneuverability control (MC) mode. The switch of control mode is determined by vehicle states as well. According to the analysis of load transfer, the acceleration scheduling strategy based on the “g-g” ellipse is utilized to generate the desired current command. Three typical scenarios are conducted through co-simulation of Carsim and Simulink to verify the control strategy, including accelerating and hard braking test, double lane change test, and duration circuit test. Especially, the limit of actuators is taken into consideration. The simulation results show that the proposed integrated control strategy could reduce the lap time and increase the maneuverability as well as stability of race cars, compared with traditional direct yaw moment control. The ultimate acceleration of the vehicle is improved significantly.
Ozone in the adjunct medical treatment. The round personality of a molecule with hormetic properties
Authors: Chirumbolo Salvatore , Tirelli Umberto , Franzini Marianno , Pandolfi Sergio , Ricevuti Giovanni , Vaiano Francesco , Valdenassi Luigi
Published: December 2023

Ozone, an allotrope of oxygen, is enjoying an increasing interest in the setting and management of the medical adjunct treatment, which is called, maybe too simplistically, “ozone therapy”. Ozone is not a medicine, so the word therapy does not properly fit this gaseous molecule. Like many natural compounds, for example plant flavonoids, even ozone interacts with aryl hydrocarbon receptors (AhRs) and, at low doses, it works according to the paradoxical mechanism of hormesis, involving mitochondria (mitohormesis). Ozone, in the hormetic range, exerts cell protective functions via the Nrf2-mediated activation of the anti-oxidant system, then leading to anti-inflammatory effects, also via the triggering of low doses of 4-HNE. Moreover, its interaction with plasma and lipids forms reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipoperoxides (LPOs), generally called ozonides, which are enabled to rule the major molecular actions of ozone in the cell. Ozone behaves as a bioregulator, by activating a wide population of reactive intermediates, which usually target mitochondria and their turnover/biogenesis, often leading to a pleiotropic spectrum of actions and behaving as a tuner of the fundamental mechanisms of survival in the cell. In this sense, ozone can be considered a novelty in the medical sciences and in the clinical approach to pharmacology and medical therapy, due to its ability to target complex regulatory systems and not simple receptors.
Impaired serotonin synthesis in hippocampus of murine lupus represents an early neuropsychiatric event
Authors: Nikolopoulos Dionysis , Nakos-Bimpos Modestos , Manolakou Theodora , Polissidis Alexia , Boumpas Dimitrios T
Published: December 2023

Background

Despite significant progress in understanding the mechanisms underlying hippocampal involvement in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE), our understanding of how neuroinflammation affects the brain neurotransmitter systems is limited. To date, few studies have investigated the role of neurotransmitters in pathogenesis of NPSLE with contradictory results.

Methods

Hippocampal tissue from NZB/W-F1 lupus-prone mice and age-matched control strains were dissected in both pre-nephritic (3-month-old) and nephritic (6-month-old) stages. High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used to evaluate the level of serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), and their metabolites 5-HIAA and DOPAC, respectively, in mouse hippocampi.

Results

Lupus mice exhibit decreased levels of serotonin at the early stages of the disease, along with intact levels of its metabolite 5-HIAA. The 5-HT turnover ratio (5-HIAA/5-HT ratio) was increased in the hippocampus of lupus mice at pre-nephritic stage suggesting that low hippocampal serotonin levels in lupus are attributed to decreased serotonin synthesis. Both DA and DOPAC levels remained unaffected in lupus hippocampus at both early and late stages.

Conclusion

Impaired hippocampal serotonin synthesis in the hippocampus of lupus-prone mice represents an early neuropsychiatric event. These findings may have important implications for the use of symptomatic therapy in diffuse NPSLE.
Spectrum of initial clinical presentations in Pakistani patients with systemic lupus erythematosus in the Arthritis Care Foundation lupus cohort
Authors: Siddique Madeeha , Ahmed Nighat Mir , Raja Sumaira Farman , Saeed Muhammad Ahmed , Sarwar Sadaf
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim is to determine the pattern of initial clinical presentations of systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) in patients in a Pakistani lupus cohort.

Methods

This is a multi-centric, retrospective, descriptive study that was done through the analysis of electronic records of patients registered with outdoor clinics of the Arthritis Care Foundation (ACF) from November 2021 to March 2023. Follow-up records of all patients diagnosed and labeled as SLE as per ACR/EULAR criteria 2019 were reviewed and only those patients whose initial presentation of SLE was documented at their incident visit (after verifying the signs and symptoms from record of their GP/referring physicians’ visits) were included in the study. A total of 388 patients diagnosed with SLE were included in the study. Their data was then entered and analyzed by using SPSS 23. The qualitative data was expressed as percentages and numbers while the quantitative variables were expressed as mean and standard deviation. Data correlation was calculated by Chi-Square test, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Of our 388 patients, 360 (92.8%) were females and 28 (7.2%) were males giving a female-to-male ratio of 12:1. The mean age of our patients was 32.8 + 9.8 years. Mucocutaneous manifestations were most commonly reported in our patient group by 336 (86.7%) patients. Musculoskeletal complaints were the next most common presenting feature reported by 246 (61.9%) patients followed by constitutional symptoms in 78 (20.1%) patients, and renal involvement in 42 (10.8%) patients.

Conclusion

In our study, a majority of patients presented with mucocutaneous symptoms. It is therefore of paramount importance to suspect autoimmune diseases in patients with these system involvements.
Exploring Whistleblowing Trends Through Bibliometric Analysis: A Global Perspective
Authors: Supendi Supendi , Hasanudin Agus Ismaya , Yazid Helmi , Ibrani Ewing Yuvisa
Published: December 2023

This research aimed to explore whistleblowing and identify future trends in whistleblowing research by using bibliometric analysis. The data used in this study of 440 documents sourced from 183 journals, books and other sources from 1982 to 2022 obtained from the Scopus database with specific subject areas including economics, econometrics and finance business, and management and accounting. The analysis revealed that the number of published articles related to whistleblowing has steadily increased since 1982, with a peak of articles published in 2022 indicating sustained interest in the topic. This study comprehensively demonstrates that whistleblowing, ethics and fraud are the most commonly studied variables. The study suggests that future research could be strengthened by exploring less commonly used variables to gain a more comprehensive understanding of factors contributing to ethical behaviour and misconduct in organisations.
Can new approaches to synthesising evidence help achieve a consensus in psychotherapy research?
Authors: Kisely Stephen R
Published: December 2023

Objective

The recent debate around the College’s Clinical Practice Guidelines on mood disorders have highlighted differences in opinion on interpreting evidence from randomised control trials (RCTs) for psychodynamic psychotherapy. This paper discusses new techniques of synthesising research evidence (e.g., umbrella reviews) that may help minimise disagreements in the interpretation of RCTs and foster greater consensus on treatment guidelines.

Conclusions

Findings from the latest umbrella review suggest that psychodynamic therapy is an evidence-based approach, among several, for common mental disorders.
Refined tastes, coarse tastes: Solving the stratification-of-goods enigma
Authors: Khalil Elias L
Published: December 2023

The “Stratification-of-Goods” expresses social ranking where the lower status group consumes almost exclusively coarse goods such as Rambo films while the upper status group consumes almost exclusively refined goods such as Shakespearean plays. The Stratification-of-Goods is an enigma for the social welfare function (SWF)—which also applies at the level of the individual utility function. It is an enigma because it makes SWF and individual utility function ill-defined: there is no single metric that allows us to compare the utility functions across groups, as well as the tastes across a single decision maker (DM), insofar as they are segregated by the refinement of taste. This paper proposes a model that promises to solve the Stratification-of-Goods Enigma. The model, consistent with rational choice theory, starts with DMs who have identical tastes but differ with respect to income level. If income inequality is non-trivial, DMs invest differently in what this paper calls “sophistication capital”—the education needed to appreciate refined goods. The difference in investment in sophistication capital sets in motion dynamics that generates hard-to-reverse status stratification. In this fashion, this paper offers a solid endogenous account that solves the Stratification-of-Goods Enigma.
Do Race and Socioeconomic Status Affect Date of Initial Presentation and Repair of Patients with Cleft lip ± Palate and Head Shape Conditions?
Authors: Weissman Joshua P. , Taritsa Iulianna , Reddy Narainsai K. , Chwa Emily S. , Bajaj Anitesh , Garg Stuti , Erkkila Ian , Gosain Arun K.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate regarding the effect of race and socioeconomic status (SES) on the timing of cleft lip and/or palate (CL ± P), craniosynostosis, and plagiocephaly presentation to clinic and possible repair.

Design/Methods

A retrospective review of patients with CL ± P and head shape conditions from Jan 2001 to Feb 2022 were included. Age at first plastic surgery clinic appointment, age at repair if applicable, gender, race, and zip code were collected. The Validated Child Opportunity Index (COI) scale was calculated based on zip code as a measure of SES. Kruskal-Wallis tests and Dunn's procedures were used for continuous variables and post hoc pairwise comparisons.

Results

2733 patients with CL ± P, 9974 with plagiocephaly/brachycephaly, and 59 patients with craniosynostosis were included. Among patients with CL ± P, Black and Hispanic patients presented significantly later to both first plastic surgery clinic appointment and age at repair than White patients ( P < .001). White patients and higher SES were associated with a significantly earlier date of initial presentation to plastic surgery clinic for head shape conditions ( P < .001).

Conclusions

Race and SES may play an important role in the delay of first presentation to plastic surgery clinic and subsequent repair for these patient populations. Further educational efforts must be provided to ensure equitable care. This single institutional study may serve to encourage other academic centers to analyze the timing of care for our pediatric patients.
Adolescents’ Perceptions of School Nurses’ Role in Functional Seizures at School
Authors: Tanner Andrea , von Gaudecker Jane , Buelow Janice M. , Miller Wendy R.
Published: December 2023

Adolescents with functional (psychogenic nonepileptic) seizures experience school-related struggles. School nurses are positioned to address such struggles. However, school nurses report having little education or confidence in their role of managing or responding to this mental health condition. Little is known about adolescents’ perceptions of school nurses’ role in functional seizure care. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with 10 adolescents from across the United States with functional seizures to explore adolescents’ perceptions of school nurses’ roles in functional seizure care at school. Results revealed school nurses, when present, play a spectrum of roles according to adolescents’ perceptions, ranging from negative (harmful and uninvolved) to positive (being present, expressing care, and actively doing tasks for the student). These perceived roles shed light upon school nurses’ lack of functional seizure awareness and opportunities to incorporate mental health interventions for adolescents with functional seizures in the school setting.
Risk of Fractures With Concomitant Use of Calcium Channel Blockers and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Authors: Desai Raj , Smith Steven M. , Mohandas Rajesh , Brown Joshua , Park Haesuk
Published: December 2023

Background:

Despite their frequent concurrent use, little is known about the concomitant use of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) on fracture risk. We compared risk of fractures in patients concomitantly treated with CCBs and SSRIs versus CCB-only users. We compared risk of fractures among concomitant CCB-SSRI users initiating cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4)-inhibiting SSRIs versus non–CYP3A4 inhibiting SSRIs.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study used IBM MarketScan commercial claims and Medicare Supplemental database (2007-2019). We included adults diagnosed with hypertension and depression, newly initiating SSRIs while being treated with CCBs (ie, concomitant CCB-SSRI users) and those who did not (ie, CCB-only users). Primary outcome was the first occurrence of any fracture. We used stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting (sIPTW) based on propensity scores to balance baseline risk between groups. Cox proportional hazard regression modeling was used to compare fracture risk.

Results:

We identified 191 352 concomitant CCB-SSRI and 956 760 CCB-only users (mean age = 56 years, 50.1% males). After sIPTW, compared with CCB-only users, CCBs-SSRIs users had a higher risk of fractures (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.43, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22-1.66). No difference in the risk of fractures between concomitant users of CCB-CYP3A4-inhibiting SSRIs and those of CCB-non–CYP3A4 inhibiting SSRIs (HR: 1.10, 95% CI: 0.87-1.40) was observed.

Conclusion and Relevance:

Short-term concomitant CCB-SSRI use was associated with increased fracture risk. Concomitant CCBs and CYP3A4-inhibiting SSRIs compared with CCBs and non–CYP3A4 inhibiting SSRIs use was not associated with increased risk.
Listen to Me: Quality of Communication and Intergenerational Political Socialization
Authors: Mayer Jeremy D. , Andolina Molly W. , McGrath Robert J.
Published: December 2023

Intergenerational political socialization is alive and well in the polarized American polity. But, by what mechanism do parental views transmit to children? We develop a theory ( dyadic social learning theory) which posits the importance of dyadic familial communication in facilitating attitudinal concordance between parents and children. Using original survey data of 1,048 dyadic pairs of American parents and middle school-aged children, we develop a novel measure of political perception that combines the perceptive accuracy of parents with the perceptive accuracy of their children. This measure of parent-child alignment, which we argue signals quality communication in families, is a powerful determinant of parent-child congruence on political views and emotions, particularly polarization. When a dyadic pair accurately perceives each other politically, the likelihood of congruent views and shared polarization increases. This research has implications for how we understand political transference of polarized views, and for broader theories of how children are socialized into the political world. It also suggests that solutions to polarization will have to address the role of parents in initiating polarization.
Significance and functions of decorative ornaments on child modesty discs: A cultural psychological exploration
Authors: Perumal Velu , Abd Rahman Khairul Aidil Azlin , Abd Rahman Ahmad Rizal
Published: December 2023

Culture and cultural artefacts are passed down as hereditary assets from one generation to the next to foster a sense of continuity and identity, forming a bridge from the past, through the present, and into the future. Despite their significance, these artefacts are often neglected and underestimated. One such cultural artefact is the child modesty disc, which is adorned with decorative ornaments; tied around children’s waists that reflect the unique differences between communities and cultures. This article aims to shed light on the functions of these ornaments, and the explicit and implicit knowledge related to child modesty disc. A photo survey was conducted using semi-nominal group techniques and semi-structured interviews, where 25 photos were presented to 20 respondents to identify commonly used child modesty discs, vegetation motifs, and the meanings of their ornaments. The eight plus one framework was used to formulate interview questions and define the cultural artefact’s functions. The findings indicate that every ornament or motif on a child modesty disc has explicit and implicit meanings and serves multiple functions. Overall, this study highlights the importance of preserving and understanding cultural artefacts as a means of honoring our ancestors and maintaining our cultural heritage.
Towards a personalized health care using a divisive hierarchical clustering approach for comorbidity and the prediction of conditioned group risks
Authors: Navarro-Cerdán J.Ramón , Sánchez-Gomis Manuel , Pons Patricia , Gálvez-Settier Santiago , Valverde Francisco , Ferrer-Albero Ana , Saurí Inmaculada , Fernández Antonio , Redon Josep
Published: December 2023

The objective was to assess risk of hospitalization and mortality of comorbidities using divisive hierarchical risk clustering to advice clinical interventions. Subjects and Methods: Data from the EHR of a general population, 3799885 adults, followed by 5 years. Model were performed using Spark and Scikit-learn and accuracy for the models was analyzed. Results: The number of models generated depends in part on the number of chronic diseases included (ex testing a sample of six diseases, a total number of 397 models for all-cause mortality and 431 models for hospitalization). The estimated models offered an ordered selection for the relevant clinical variables and their estimated risk as a group and for the individual patient in the group. Accuracy was assessed according to age, sex and the cardinality of the comorbid groups. A mobile version and dashboard were developed. Conclusion: The software developed stratified hospital admission and mortality risk in clusters of chronic diseases, and for a given patient, it could advise intensifying treatment or reallocating the patient risk.
The Personality and Politics of Cryptocurrency Investors
Authors: Ferguson Grant , Haglin Kathryn , Jordan Soren
Published: December 2023

Investing in cryptocurrency has become more popular among Americans. Despite this, politicians and social scientists know almost nothing about the politics of cryptocurrency in the American public. By analyzing an original, nationally representative survey of 2500 American respondents, we create the first robust profile of the personalities, demographics, and political attitudes of cryptocurrency owners. We show that Americans who report hardship from inflation are more likely to own cryptocurrency, suggesting that when inflation is high, Americans may be more likely to use cryptocurrency as a medium of exchange and store of value. Americans who favor lower government spending and are more inclined toward conspiratorial thinking are also more likely to own cryptocurrency. Finally, there is a personality to cryptocurrency owners, with those open to new experiences more likely to own it and the conscientious less likely to own it. Our results have implications for how the American public may use cryptocurrency going forward.
Data Becomings: Bridge/Bridging Data-Trails in Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Carey Neil , Benozzo Angelo , Tommasi Francesco , Koro Mirka
Published: December 2023

This article plays with research-creation possibilities to interrogate data, data trails, and their becomings in qualitative inquiry. It arises through the inspiration of the authors’ experiences in experimenting with data-trails: a specific mode of thinking-doing for speculative research-creation possibilities. By placing these experiences alongside conventional discourses and protocols of research practice, the article ponders on a series of ethico-onto-epistemological questions about data becomings. We wonder about how qualitative researchers find and trace interconnected data? We approach this timeless question and adopt the concept of bridge/bridging to help us in considering the ontological sites that such data-trail research-creation possibilities afford.
Assessment Fidelity of Parents Implementing a Standardized Telehealth Infant Autism Screener
Authors: Phillips Allison Q. , Campi Emily , Talbott Meagan R. , Baranek Grace T.
Published: December 2023

Telehealth is effective for service delivery in pediatric occupational therapy across ages and diagnoses. Remote parent coaching provides unique benefits for both parents and infants. As a result of COVID-19, practitioners and researchers pivoted to remote assessment and intervention without much preparation or training. It is critical that we evaluate the quality of these telehealth services. One important component of remote evaluations is assessment fidelity. To examine assessment fidelity of a telehealth-delivered observational autism screening tool for infants. An assessment fidelity checklist was applied as the primary outcome measure. Parents conducted assessments with 82% adherence to the fidelity checklist. Implications: A parent coaching telehealth approach may be valid for assessment in pediatric telehealth. Continually monitoring the assessment fidelity of a tool is critical for the valid administration of remote services.
Soong Classification Using Radiographs Only Moderately Correlates With Distal Radius Plate Position on Computed Tomography
Authors: Cross Rachel E. , Hoftiezer Yannick Albert J. , McCarty Justin C. , Fernandez Dell’Oca Alberto , Gavagnin Aquiles , Garg Rohit , Jupiter Jesse B. , Bhashyam Abhiram R.
Published: December 2023

Background:

The Soong classification grades the prominence of volar locking plates used to treat distal radius fractures in relation to the volar rim. The basis of the classification scheme is that increasing plate prominence over the volar rim and distal radius watershed zone is associated with increased likelihood of flexor tendon irritation and need for plate removal. However, recent studies report mixed results on the predictive value of the Soong classification for these outcomes. We hypothesized that the decreased predictive accuracy of Soong classification is due to misclassification between Soong grades secondary to a suboptimal correlation between the Soong classification on radiographs (XRs) and computed tomography (CT).

Methods:

Fifty volarly displaced distal radius fractures treated with a volar locking plate in the international and publicly available ICUC database were reviewed. All cases with a postoperative XR and CT were included. Soong classification of the volar locking plate in relation to the volar ulnar rim was determined on both XR and CT by 2 independent, fellowship-trained hand surgeons using CT imaging as the gold standard. The distribution of Soong grades on XR and CT was compared using Pearson’s χ2 test, and correlation was calculated using the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC). A multi-class confusion matrix was used to calculate each grade’s positive predictive value (PPV).

Results:

We found an MCC of 0.65, indicating only moderate correlation between the 2 modalities. Per individual Soong grade, the PPV was the highest for grade 2 (0.96), with lower PPVs for grade 0 (0.63) and grade 1 (0.60).

Conclusions:

The distribution of Soong grades was significantly different when using XR versus CT ( P < .001).

Level of Evidence:

Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, diagnostic, level 2b
Understanding the contribution of intellectual disabilities nurses. Paper 1 of 4 -Scoping literature review
Authors: Mafuba Kay , Chapman Hazel M , Forster Marc , Chester Rebecca , Kiernan Joann , Kupara Dorothy , Kudita Chiedza
Published: December 2023

The objective of this scoping review was to summarise evidence on the contribution of intellectual disabilities nurses to improve the health and well-being of children, adults and older people with intellectual disability, now and for the future. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (for Scoping Reviews) (PRISMA-ScR) process and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance was used. We included 54 publications. We identified 154 interventions undertaken by intellectual disability nurses. We categorised the intellectual disability nursing interventions into three themes: effectuating nursing procedures, enhancing impact of services, and enhancing quality of life.

Findings point to high quality research being essential in determining the impact and effectiveness of intellectual disability nursing interventions across the lifespan. We recommend that a searchable online compendium of intellectual disability nurse interventions be established and regularly updated. This will provide opportunities to engage more effectively in evidence-based practice.
Involvement of interferon gamma signaling in spinal trigeminal caudal subnucleus astrocyte in orofacial neuropathic pain in rats with infraorbital nerve injury
Authors: Asano Sayaka , Okada-Ogawa Akiko , Kobayashi Momoyo , Yonemoto Mamiko , Hojo Yasushi , Shibuta Ikuko , Noma Noboru , Iwata Koichi , Hitomi Suzuro , Shinoda Masamichi
Published: December 2023

Background: Trigeminal nerve injury causes orofacial pain that can interfere with activities of daily life. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown, and the appropriate treatment has not been established yet. This study aimed to examine the involvement of interferon gamma (IFN-γ) signaling in the spinal trigeminal caudal subnucleus (Vc) in orofacial neuropathic pain. Methods: Infraorbital nerve (ION) injury (IONI) was performed in rats by partial ION ligation. The head-withdrawal reflex threshold (HWT) to mechanical stimulation of the whisker pad skin was measured in IONI or sham rats, as well as following a continuous intracisterna magna administration of IFN-γ and a mixture of IFN-γ and fluorocitrate (inhibitor of astrocytes activation) in naïve rats, or an IFN-γ antagonist in IONI rats. The IFN-γ receptor immunohistochemistry and IFN-γ Western blotting were analyzed in the Vc after IONI or sham treatment. The glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP) immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were also analyzed after administration of IFN-γ and the mixture of IFN-γ and fluorocitrate. Moreover, the change in single neuronal activity in the Vc was examined in the IONI, sham, and IONI group administered IFN-γ antagonist. Results: The HWT decreased after IONI. The IFN-γ and IFN-γ receptor were upregulated after IONI, and the IFN-γ receptor was expressed in Vc astrocytes. IFN-γ administration decreased the HWT, whereas the mixture of IFN-γ and fluorocitrate recovered the decrement of HWT. IFN-γ administration upregulated GFAP expression, while the mixture of IFN-γ and fluorocitrate recovered the upregulation of GFAP expression. IONI significantly enhanced the neuronal activity of the mechanical-evoked responses, and administration of an IFN-γ antagonist significantly inhibited these enhancements. Conclusions: IFN-γ signaling through the receptor in astrocytes is a key mechanism underlying orofacial neuropathic pain associated with trigeminal nerve injury. These findings will aid in the development of therapeutics for orofacial neuropathic pain.
Nebulization versus metered-dose inhaler and spacer in bronchodilator responsiveness testing: a retrospective study
Authors: Lu Rongli , Li Ying , Hu Chengping , Pan Pinhua , Zhao Qiaohong , He Ruoxi
Published: December 2023

Background:

The recommended delivery mode for bronchodilators in bronchodilator responsiveness (BDR) testing remains controversial.

Objective:

To compare the efficacy of salbutamol administration using a nebulizer versus a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with spacer in BDR testing.

Design:

A retrospective study.

Methods:

This study examined the data of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who completed BDR testing between 1 December 2021 and 30 June 2022, at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University. After administering 400 μg of salbutamol through an MDI with spacer or 2.5 mg using a nebulizer, the changes in forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were analyzed in patients with moderate-to-very severe spirometric abnormalities [pre-bronchodilator FEV1 percentage predicted values (FEV1%pred) ⩽59%]. Significant responsiveness was assessed as >12% and >200 mL improvement in FEV1 and/or FVC or >10% increase in FEV1%pred or FVC percentage predicted values (FVC%pred) from pre- to post-bronchodilator administration.

Results:

Of the enrolled 894 patients, 83.2% were male (median age, 63 years). After propensity score matching, 240 pairs of patients were selected. The increment in FEV1 and increased FEV1 relative to the predicted value (ΔFEV1%pred) were significantly higher in patients <65 years and those with severe spirometric abnormalities in the nebulization group than patients in the MDI group (all p < 0.05). Compared with MDI with spacer, patients who used nebulization had a 30 mL greater increase in ΔFEV1 (95% CI: 0.01–0.05, p = 0.004) and a 1.09% greater increase in ΔFEV1%pred (95% CI: 0.303–1.896, p = 0.007) from baseline. According to the > 12% and >200 mL increase criterion, the significant BDR rate with nebulization was 1.67 times higher than that with an MDI with spacer (OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.13–2.47, p = 0.009).

Conclusion:

Salbutamol delivered using a nebulizer may be preferable to an MDI with spacer in certain circumstances. Nebulization has the potential to increase responsiveness to salbutamol in BDR testing.
Embracing emojis: Bridging the gap in workplace technology adoption and elevating communication effectiveness
Authors: Y Poondy Rajan , Aiswarya B , A Jenifer Arokia Selvi
Published: December 2023

An emoji is a small digital picture or icon that is used in electronic messaging to show a feeling, thought, or idea. Emoticons are frequently employed in written communication, such as text messaging, social media platforms and various digital mediums, with the purpose of expressing emotions or providing more meaning to a statement. Adopting emojis in the professional environment has become a modern method to convey emotions, offer feedback, and express appreciation amongst peers. This exploration underlines the intersection of technology – specifically the use of emojis – and its influence on interpersonal interactions and dynamics within the professional setting. This draws attention to the need for effective communication, setting clear expectations, and understanding the implications of technology on workers' attitudes and behaviours. For deeper analysis, this study employs two pivotal frameworks: the theory of operant conditioning and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). The former probes into the effects of outcomes, such as the usage of emojis, on employees' behaviours in the office context. The latter, on the other hand, explores the acceptance and perceptions employees have towards such technological innovations. Emphasizing effective communication becomes paramount when we consider the role technology plays in shaping our interactions and viewpoints. While emojis can potentially enhance the clarity and effectiveness of communication, they come with their set of challenges. It's vital to approach their use with discretion, particularly in sensitive scenarios like performance evaluations. In such contexts, the margin for misunderstanding is high, and incorrect interpretations can lead to unintended consequences.
What if neither randomized control trials nor public voting records are available in a get-out-the-vote field experiment?
Authors: Fukumoto Kentaro
Published: December 2023

When American political scientists conduct get-out-the-vote (GOTV) field experiments, randomized control trials and public voting records are the two pillars of these experiments. However, what if neither is available in other countries? For instance, Japanese election commissions are averse to both. To tackle this problem, I propose a second-best solution. I collaborated with the election commission of a municipality in Japan. The election commission sent direct mail (DM) to all 18-year-olds in the municipality and disclosed voting records at the week-of-birth level. Finally, I estimated the treatment effect of the DM on voter turnout using a regression discontinuity design, where I compared the turnout of 18-year-olds with that of 19-year-olds or 17-year-olds. I cannot find any statistically significant evidence showing that the DM increased 18-year-old voters’ turnout. I hope that my setup enables GOTV field experiments in many countries outside the United States so that we can infer the causal effects of GOTV tactics in various contexts.
Use and perceptions of digital technology for daily life, physical activity and health information among former cardiac rehabilitation patients in Austria: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: McGowan Hannah , Gutenberg Johanna , Leitner Veronika , Mühlhauser Kathrin , Breda Aliz , Fischer Michael , Globits Sebastian , Grote Vincent , Kiesl David , Mayr Karl , Muntean Michael , Podolsky Andrea , Niebauer Josef , Crutzen Rik , Kulnik Stefan Tino
Published: December 2023

Objective

Digital health technologies offer great potential to improve access and adherence to cardiovascular disease secondary prevention measures such as regular physical activity (PA). However, the use and perceptions of digital technology (DT) among cardiac rehabilitation (CR) patients are not well understood. The aim of this study was therefore to explore the use of DT in former CR patients’ daily lives, for PA and for health information; and to gain insight into patient perceptions of DT for PA, including barriers, facilitators and requested features.

Methods

A cross-sectional postal survey was conducted between May 2022 and January 2023. Five Austrian CR centres contacted 500 former patients who had completed a phase 2 CR programme from January 2019 onwards. One-hundred seventeen patients (mean [SD] age, 69 ± 10 years, 22% female) responded. Descriptive and thematic analyses were conducted for closed and open-ended questions, respectively.

Results

Results indicated high DT usage for communication and informational aspects, and to a large extent also for PA and health information seeking. Main facilitators of DT use for PA were attributed to health and behavioural monitoring. Main barriers were lack of perceived need, lack of interest and poor usability. Most frequently requested features included pulse and blood pressure measurement, step count and compatibility to other devices.

Conclusions

Patients generally used and perceived DT as beneficial in daily life and for secondary prevention purposes such as PA. The survey identified facilitators, barriers and feature requests, which may inform the design and implementation of digital health interventions for CR patients.
Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Young Children: Redeveloping the Five Big Ideas Framework
Authors: Su (苏嘉红) Jiahong , Yang (杨伟鹏) Weipeng
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To align with the artificial intelligence and robotics (AIR) research and policy agenda, this paper puts forth an adapted five big ideas framework specifically tailored to teaching young children about artificial intelligence (AI) via robotics.

Design/Approach/Methods

Grounded in early childhood education research, the proposed framework emphasizes the use of robotics and play-based learning to make AI accessible and encourage engagement among young children who have not started formal schooling.

Findings

We comparatively analyze the commonalities and differences in AI big ideas between the original K-12 framework and the redeveloped early childhood education framework. To pique children's interest, key concepts are presented through interactions with robotics and robot role-play. This paper also provides recommendations for age-appropriate topics, storytelling, and play-based teaching methods.

Originality/Value

This framework aims to equip researchers and educators with strategies for successfully integrating introductory AI education into early childhood classrooms. Teaching AI in a developmentally responsive manner can help nurture young children's curiosity toward and understanding of an increasingly AI-driven world.
Learning Through Play (LTP) Parenting Program: Capacity Building of Traditional Birth Attendants in Pakistan
Authors: Kiran Tayyeba , Sattar Rabia , Husain Mina , Shah Sadia , Memon Rakhshi , Chaudhry Nasim
Published: December 2023

The present study aimed to train Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) in a parenting program called Learning through Play (LTP) to improve their Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices regarding child development after completion of training, for them to be better able to support parents during their routine practice. Quasi experimental design was used. A total of 330 TBAs meeting study eligibility criteria were included and data was collected in a group setting. LTP training was comprised of weekly sessions delivered over 1 month. LTP includes knowledge about child development for children from 0 to 3 years. The Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) questionnaire was used to measure change. Statistical analysis was done through Paired Sample T-test. There was a significant difference between pre-post scores t = -29.36 ( p < .05). Capacity building of TBAs in LTP program and integrating LTP into existing health care systems may contribute to reducing the child development gaps in Pakistan.
Newswork in crisis: Sourcing patterns during COVID-19 through a ‘lived experience’ perspective
Authors: Spyridou Paschalia (Lia) , Vatikiotis Pantelis , Maniou Theodora A
Published: December 2023

During crises the newsmedia are expected to provide relevant and accurate information to help citizens comprehend the crisis and act upon it. As a source-driven practice, journalism relies on a variety of sources to validate news and provide perspectives. The disruptive nature of a crisis though raises questions about how journalists select sources and what these choices say about professional autonomy and criticality. Considering source choices as newsgathering venues and strategies, and drawing on semi-structured interviews with journalists in Greece and Cyprus, the study explores the factors that shaped journalists’ sourcing practices during the COVID-19 crisis. We find that journalists over-relied on political sources and selective authoritative voices compromising the tenets of verification and independence. The fear to convey inaccurate or ‘biased’ information amid disinformation flows, bolstered journalist's elite orientation. Professional precarity and economic pressures are found to further worsen the ‘lived experience’ of journalists limiting their ability to question and scrutinise power in times of crises.
Bridging Knowledge Management and Capabilities in Innovative Projects: An Integrative Framework
Authors: Alves Josivan Leite , de Carvalho Marly Monteiro
Published: December 2023

The application of dynamic capabilities and absorptive capacity in innovative projects can use the knowledge processed by knowledge management as a strategic resource. Thus, this article aims to investigate how the cross-fertilization among dynamic capabilities, absorptive capacity, and knowledge management can benefit the development of innovative projects. The research approach is a literature review. We identified core codes and their relationships. We propose an integrative framework, detailing three propositions. It also presents unsolved questions and new trends for future research agendas. The results can provide valuable contributions for project managers, pointing out how project capabilities can enhance innovative projects.