bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Florida Law HB21 on Opioid Prescribing Patterns After Outpatient Hand Surgery
Authors: Geller Joseph S. , Markowitz Moses I. , Lizardi Juan J. , Jabori Sinan K. , Dodds Seth D.
Published: December 2023

Background:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of Florida lae House Bill 21 (HB21) on opioid prescribing patterns by a single orthopedic hand surgeon after outpatient hand and upper extremity surgery.

Methods:

The following variables were evaluated with retrospective chart review before and after implementation of HB21: type of opioid, number of pills, morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), emergency department visits, and readmissions. In addition, the Florida Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (E-FORCSE [Electronic-Florida Online Reporting of Controlled Substance Evaluation]) was queried to determine the number of pills and MMEs prescribed and sold for the latter cohort. Student t tests, Fisher exact tests, and binary logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. P < .05 was considered significant.

Results:

We reviewed 231 consecutive patients who underwent hand or upper extremity surgery from July 2017 to July 2018 and 207 consecutive patients from January 2020 to January 2021. The average age was significantly different between the cohorts (48.41 vs 44.98 years, P = .025); however, there were no significant differences across other demographic variables. After controlling for age, the average number of pills prescribed per patient decreased significantly after HB21 (25.11 vs 21.6 pills, P < .001). The number of MMEs prescribed per patient decreased as well, but the decrease was not statistically significant (167.8 vs 154.1 MMEs, P = .054). There was an association between preoperative opioid prescriptions filled and prolonged opioid use (odds ratio 6.438, P = .003).

Conclusion:

Florida law HB21 resulted in significantly fewer pills prescribed per patient, suggesting that legislation likely changed prescriber behavior and/or patient demand regarding postoperative opioid prescriptions after outpatient hand and upper extremity surgery.
Admission of Upper Extremity Injuries Presenting to the Emergency Department: An NEISS Study
Authors: Eckhoff Michael D. , Schwartz Brandon T. , Parikh Soham B. , Wells Matthew E. , Brugman Sean C.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Upper extremity injuries account for 36.5% of presentations to the emergency department in the United States. This study seeks to determine current rates of upper extremity injuries that present to the emergency department and the injury characteristics of patients requiring admission.

Methods:

National Electronic Injury Surveillance System was queried for a 10-year period for upper extremity injuries. Further analysis was done to evaluate specific patient demographics, injury characteristics, and mechanisms of injury of those patients who were admitted to the hospital.

Results:

Between 2012 and 2021, 39 160 365 persons are estimated to have presented to 100 United States emergency departments for managing upper extremity injuries, accounting for 28.8% of total presentations. A total of 12 662 041 upper extremity patients were pediatric (32.3%). Admissions occurred in 4.6% of presentations. The most common presenting diagnosis was laceration (24.9%), while the most common admission diagnosis was fracture (49.7%). The majority had injuries involving their forearms (19.9%). The most common injury-associated consumer product group was stairs, ramps, landings, and floors at 28.5%. Of the 445 644 patients, those estimated to have been injured by stairs, ramps, landings, and floors adults were 429 435 or 96.4%. The most common injury-associated product in pediatric populations was playground equipment (23.6%), of which 53.7% was from monkey bars and other climbing apparatuses.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates an overall increase in admissions for upper extremity injuries in the setting of similar rates of overall upper extremity injuries with fractures and forearm being the most common diagnosis and body part involved, respectively.

Level of Evidence:

IV; Database
Validity of smartphones for assessing kayak paddler training
Authors: Álvarez Diego , López Antonio M , Alvarez Juan C , González Leticia
Published: December 2023

Over the last few years, the use of automatic performance measurement systems has become relatively common among professional kayak paddlers. Although these systems are not able to perform a complete evaluation of the athlete, they can extract relevant parameters about the training result. Thus, different devices have been developed to measure relevant information such as paddling rhythm. The high price of these devices limits their use for amateur athletes. To overcome this limitation, the validity of the measurements provided by different smartphones, obtained from the integrated inertial sensors, has been analyzed. This study has compared the performance of different phones versus professional Movella DOT inertial measurement devices. The article presents a comparison of the results obtained and proves that smartphones produce results equivalent to those of conventional sensors.
Long-term outcomes of cyclosporin induction and ustekinumab maintenance combination therapy in patients with steroid-refractory acute severe ulcerative colitis
Authors: Vitali Francesco , Rath Timo , Klenske Entcho , Vögele Anna-Lena , Ganzleben Ingo , Zundler Sebastian , Strobel Deike , Geppert Carol , Hartmann Arndt , Neurath Markus F. , Atreya Raja
Published: December 2023

Background:

Effective management of patients with acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a major challenge and there remains a paucity of available maintenance treatment options after efficacious cyclosporin induction therapy.

Objectives:

We investigated the long-term effectiveness and safety of cyclosporin and ustekinumab combination therapy in patients with steroid refractory ASUC.

Design:

Monocentric, prospective study.

Methods:

We included patients with steroid refractory ASUC with multiple failed prior advanced therapies, who were treated with cyclosporin and ustekinumab combination therapy.

Results:

Among the 11 included patients, 10 had prior failure to infliximab and 8 failed at least three previous biological therapies. The mean baseline Mayo and Lichtiger scores were 10.9 (9–12) and 13.3 (11–14), respectively. Ustekinumab was initiated 3.2 weeks (1–8) after initiation of cyclosporin treatment and combination therapy was continued for a mean of 11.5 (4–20) weeks. Clinical response was achieved in six patients at week 16 and clinical steroid-free clinical remission in five patients at week 48. Endoscopic remission was achieved in five patients at week 16 and together with histological remission in five patients at week 52. Intestinal ultrasound demonstrated mean bowel wall thickening in the sigmoid colon of 5.5 mm at baseline and 3.5 mm at week 52, respectively. Two patients had to undergo colectomy (mean 4.5 months, range 3–6) and three stopped ustekinumab therapy due to ineffectiveness. Overall, combination therapy was well tolerated.

Conclusion:

Combination of cyclosporin and ustekinumab therapy allowed nearly half of ASUC patients to reach clinical and endoscopic remission after 52 weeks, warranting further studies.

Trial registration:

Not applicable.
Early infliximab trough levels in paediatric IBD patients predict sustained remission
Authors: Bevers Nanja , Aliu Arta , Wong Dennis R. , Winkens Bjorn , Vreugdenhil Anita , Pierik Marieke J. , Derijks Luc J. J. , Rheenen Patrick F. van
Published: December 2023

Background:

Exposure–response studies have shown that higher infliximab concentrations are associated with better outcomes in inflammatory bowel disease. There is little agreement about the optimal time to measure infliximab levels in children.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate whether trough levels at week 6 or week 14 predict sustained remission. The secondary aim was to define target trough levels at weeks 6 and 14.

Design:

We used routinely collected electronic healthcare data of 70 anti-tumour necrosis factor naïve children with inflammatory bowel disease treated with a standard infliximab induction- and variable maintenance scheme.

Methods:

Trough levels and blood and faecal markers for disease activity were measured before every infliximab administration. Sustained remission was defined as the absence of symptoms and low inflammatory markers between weeks 26 and 52 after the start of infliximab therapy. Optimal infliximab levels at weeks 6 and 14 were determined using the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results:

The median infliximab level at week 6 was not significantly higher in children who achieved sustained remission compared to those who did not (16.9 mg/L versus 12.0 mg/L; p = 0.058) but the median infliximab level at week 14 was significantly higher in those with sustained remission (7.7 mg/L versus 3.8 mg/L; p = 0.006). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curves at weeks 6 and 14 to predict sustained remission was 0.67 (95% CI 0.51–0.83) and 0.75 (95% CI 0.60–0.90), respectively. Target trough levels at weeks 6 and 14 were ⩾13.2 and ⩾6.9 mg/L, respectively.

Conclusion:

An infliximab measurement at week 14 with a target through level ⩾6.9 mg/L best predicted sustained remission.
A Three-Step Data-Driven Methodology to Assess Adherence to Basal Insulin Therapy in Patients With Insulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Nørlev Jannie Toft Damsgaard , Kronborg Thomas , Jensen Morten Hasselstrøm , Vestergaard Peter , Hejlesen Ole , Hangaard Stine
Published: December 2023

Background:

While health care providers (HCPs) are generally aware of the challenges concerning insulin adherence in adults with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes (T2D), data guiding identification of insulin nonadherence and understanding of injection patterns have been limited. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine detailed injection data and provide methods for assessing different aspects of basal insulin adherence.

Method:

Basal insulin data recorded by a connected insulin pen and prescribed doses were collected from 103 insulin-treated patients (aged ≥18 years) with T2D from an ongoing clinical trial (NCT04981808). We categorized the data and analyzed distributions of correct doses, increased doses, reduced doses, and missed doses to quantify adherence. We developed a three-step model evaluating three aspects of adherence (overall adherence, adherence distribution, and dose deviation) offering HCPs a comprehensive assessment approach.

Results:

We used data from a connected insulin pen to exemplify the use of the three-step model to evaluate overall, adherence, adherence distribution, and dose deviation using patient cases.

Conclusion:

The methodology provides HCPs with detailed access to previously limited clinical data on insulin administration, making it possible to identify specific nonadherence behavior which will guide patient-HCP discussions and potentially provide valuable insights for tailoring the most appropriate forms of support.
“Deeper Than a Lesson”: New Jersey School Superintendents’ Approaches to Culturally Relevant Education
Authors: Mastrogiovanni Danielle , Freidus Alexandra
Published: December 2023

This study investigates what equity-focused school superintendents know and believe about culturally relevant pedagogy and how their leadership practices align with the tenets of culturally responsive leadership. We interviewed a diverse sample of 23 New Jersey district leaders who self-identified or were identified by others as equity oriented. Participant responses revealed an incomplete understanding of culturally relevant frameworks, although their practices often reflected the underlying principles of culturally responsive school leadership. Our findings demonstrate the need for leadership preparation programs to focus on both how and why culturally relevant education can be put into practice.
Remineralization potential of strontium-doped nano-hydroxyapatite dentifrice and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate cream on white spot lesions in enamel following orthodontic debonding – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rajendran Ratheesh , Antony S Delphine Priscilla , Ashik P Mohammed , Bharath Subin , Thomas Arun Jacob , Heboyan Artak
Published: December 2023

Aim and Objective:

This study was intended to compare and determine the potency of strontium-doped nano-hydroxyapatite paste against a topical cream containing casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate and a regular dentifrice for remineralization of white spot lesions of enamel following orthodontic debonding.

Methods:

Ninety individuals with white spot lesions on their enamel who visited the orthodontic department for de-bonding were selected for the research. Patients were randomly assigned to three distinct groups with each group consisting of 30 patients. Group 1 served as the control and received regular dentifrice, Group 2 received strontium-doped nano-hydroxyapatite paste, and Group 3 received casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate topical cream. Patients were instructed to locally apply a specified amount of the prescribed preparation twice daily for six weeks. The data were analysed using the statistical programme SPSS 22.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA), and the level of significance had been set at p < 0.05.

Results:

Group 1 did not show any change in the enamel following the application of toothpaste. Both Group 2 and 3 demonstrated higher post-treatment scores, indicating effective remineralization potential ( p < 0.001). However, Group 2 (strontium-doped nano-hydroxyapatite paste) displayed significantly greater remineralization capacity when compared to group 3 (casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate topical cream).

Conclusion:

Compared to conventional dentifrice and casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate paste, strontium-doped nano-hydroxyapatite preparation demonstrated greater enamel remineralization of the white spot lesions and favourable surface alterations in the enamel surface. strontium-doped nano-hydroxyapatite can be utilised safely and efficiently to treat early caries and remineralise white spot lesions on the enamel.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a healthy immunocompetent patient: A case report and literature review
Authors: Rouis Houda , Moussa Chirine , Houcine Yoldez , Zendah Ines , Kwas Hamida , Ghedira Habib , Maâlej Sonia
Published: December 2023

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia, typically an opportunistic infection, is commonly associated with risk factors such as low CD4+ lymphocyte count, underlying malignancies, organ transplantation, or immunosuppressive medications. However, occurrences in healthy individuals without known risk factors are exceptionally rare and sparsely documented. In our retrospective analysis of a 42-year-old male without past medical history at Abderrahmane Mami Hospital, Tunisia, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia was diagnosed. The patient presented with fever, productive cough, hemoptysis, and a decline in general health. Clinical examination revealed fever and hypoxemia, and imaging studies demonstrated bilateral necrotic alveolar opacities. Despite empirical antibiotics, nonresponse necessitated bronchoscopy, confirming Pneumocystis jirovecii. Treatment with oral Sulfamethoxazole-Trimethoprim yielded excellent outcomes. This case highlights the potential occurrence of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in immunocompetent individuals, underscoring the importance of direct microbiological methods in assessing suggestive clinical and radiological features.
Cranial neurolymphomatosis and its oncologic counterparts: Case series on malignant cranial nerve neuropathies
Authors: Srichawla Bahadar S , Bose Abigail , Kipkorir Vincent
Published: December 2023

Neurolymphomatosis occurs due to the infiltration of a nerve by malignant cells. Cranial neurolymphomatosis is a rare disease process associated with non-solid tumors (i.e., lymphoma, leukemia, etc.). Cranial neurolymphomatosis presents with single or multifocal neuropathy. Primary cranial neurolymphomatosis is defined as the initial presenting symptom leading to a new diagnosis of cancer. Secondary cranial neurolymphomatosis is defined as cancer progression with spread to a cranial nerve. While cranial neurolymphomatosis is a recognized cause of cranial nerve neuropathies, a myriad of other malignancies can also lead to similar clinical manifestations. This case series elucidates not only the classical presentations associated with cranial neurolymphomatosis but also introduces other oncologic entities that may compromise cranial nerve functions. A descriptive case series is presented on six patients with malignancy-related cranial neuropathy who came to a tertiary-care center from 2018 to 2022. 5/6 (83.3%) of patients presented with primary cranial neuropathy. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was the most prevalent malignancy observed in 3/6 (50.0%) cases. Other malignancies observed include non-Hodgkin lymphoma, monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis, and peripheral T-cell lymphoma. The most affected cranial nerve was the trigeminal nerve in 4/6 (66.6%) individuals. Multiple cranial neuropathies were seen in 2/6 (33.3%) of patients. The most common neuroradiographic finding was a lesion to Meckel’s cave. Other cranial nerves affected include the optic, facial, and vestibulocochlear nerves. Diagnostic modalities utilized included magnetic resonance imaging and 18F-fluoro-2-D-glucose positron emission tomography-computerized tomography. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis for flow cytometry may also have diagnostic value in patients with increased disease burden. Treatment was guided according to individual malignancy and 2/6 (33.3%) patients achieved complete remission, 2/6 (33.3%) died within 1 year, and 1/6 (16.6%) were referred to hospice. Cranial neuropathy may be the first symptom of a neoplastic process; thus, prompt recognition and treatment may improve morbidity and mortality.
Ectopic pituitary adenoma with empty sella: A case report
Authors: Iliass Bourekba , Khaoula Boumeriem , Selma Khouchoua , Fatima Zahra Laamrani , Laila Jroundi , Omar El Aoufir
Published: December 2023

Ectopic pituitary adenoma is a condition characterized by the presence of an adenoma originating from extra-sellar pituitary cell residue from the migration of Rathke’s pouch. First described in 1909, ectopic pituitary adenoma is a very rare, largely unknown condition with a challenging diagnosis, that requires proving the absence of communication between the extra-sellar mass and the normal pituitary gland (or any of the intra-sellar contents). Here, we describe the case of a 38-year-old female who presented with symptomatic hyperprolactinemia in whom magnetic resonance imaging revealed a space-occupying mass in the sphenoid sinus with an empty sella turcica. Clinical information coupled with magnetic resonance imaging findings raised suspicion for the diagnosis, which was later confirmed through surgery (showing the absence of a breach in the sellar floor dura), and histology. Given the rarity of such cases, management is not standardized; however, most patients reported in the literature, as in our case, have undergone surgical treatment. This case report aims to provide an additional example to the existing literature on this rare condition, especially when it is associated with an empty sella turcica.
Association Between First Post-operative Day Urine Output Following Kidney Transplantation and Short-Term and Long-Term Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Morrison Steven A. , Thanamayooran Aran , Tennankore Karthik , Vinson Amanda J.
Published: December 2023

Background:

The relationship between post-operative urine output (UO) following kidney transplantation and long-term graft function has not been well described.

Objective:

In this study, we examined the association between decreased UO on post-operative day 1 (POD1) and post-transplant outcomes.

Design:

This is a retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Atlantic Canada.

Patients:

Patients from the 4 Atlantic Canadian provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Prince Edward Island) who received a live or deceased donor kidney transplant from 2006 through 2019 through the multiorgan transplant program at the Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre (QEII) hospital in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Measurements:

Using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models, we assessed the association of low POD1 UO (defined as ≤1000 mL) with death-censored graft loss (DCGL). In secondary analyses, we used adjusted logistic regression or Cox models as appropriate to assess the impact of UO on delayed graft function (DGF), prolonged length of stay (greater than the median for the entire cohort), and death.

Results:

Of the 991 patients included, 151 (15.2%) had a UO ≤1000 mL on POD1. Low UO was independently associated with DCGL (hazard ratio [HR] = 4.00, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 95% CI = 1.55-10.32), DGF (odds ratio [OR] = 45.25, 95% CI = 23.00-89.02), and prolonged length of stay (OR = 5.06, 95% CI = 2.95-8.69), but not death (HR = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.31-2.09).

Limitations:

This was a single-center, retrospective, observational study and therefore has inherent limitations of generalizability, data collection, and residual confounding.

Conclusions:

Overall, reduced post-operative UO following kidney transplantation is associated with an increased risk of DCGL, DGF, and prolonged hospital length of stay.
Impact of Transparency and Disclosure (TD) on the Market Valuation of the Firms in India: The Moderating Role of Competition
Authors: Rastogi Shailesh , Singh Kuldeep , Kanoujiya Jagjeevan
Published: December 2023

The competitive business environment is new world order, which applies to firms worldwide. Corporate transparency and disclosure (CTD) impact the market valuation of the firms. However, the impacts of CTD on the value in the competitive business environment are not explored well, which is the current study’s aim. Panel data of 76 diversified Indian firms are gathered. The sample (76 firms) is shortlisted from the BSE 100 index for 10 years (2010–2019). The static panel data are applied to the data. It is found that competition negatively (the learners’ index is an inverse proxy of competition) moderates the CTD’s impact on the valuation of the firms. This finding implies that a low level of competition in the business environment enhances the CTD’s impact on the firm’s valuation more than a high level of competition. Moreover, no other study finds a nonlinear positive association of CTD on the valuation and the moderation by competition. The study’s unique outcomes that CTD is effective for valuation only when it reaches a threshold level (found through nonlinear association) and a low level of competition can enhance CTD’s impact on the valuation is a significant contribution of the study.
Attachment Theory: Its Absence and Role in Deinstitutionalisation Strategies
Authors: Banks Chloe
Published: December 2023

Institutional care for children without families is still widely used globally as a child protection intervention, despite concerns that it violates child rights, separates children from their families, puts children at risk of abuse and neglect and is harmful for child development. This article applied attachment theory to analyse the use and risks of institutional care. It also discusses the challenges and consequences of implementing deinstitutionalisation strategies, a series of policy-driven activities aimed at transitioning a child protection system from an institutional to family-based model of childcare. A secondary data analysis found the progressive elimination of institutions can be effective where deinstitutionalisation strategies implement an attachment approach to improve institutions alongside building permanency planning capacity for children. This article proposes that institutional care may have a role as a child protection intervention where it is temporary, recognises a child’s need for secure attachment and facilitates safe permanency in a family setting.
Taking the Glass Escalator Theory to School
Authors: Keynton Rachel , Lee Kenya
Published: December 2023

White men have realized persistent advantages in high-status leadership positions in the workplace. Theories of gender inequality in leadership, including the “glass escalator” theory, consider only how this issue functions within occupational contexts and have yet to assess whether or how such patterns of inequality occur across institutions and may persist throughout the education-to-occupation pipeline. Using nationally representative data on U.S. high school students, the authors test for early evidence of racialized glass escalator effects by examining leadership disparities within the feminine-coded field of performing arts activities, which serve as an upstream approximation of feminized occupations. The authors find that although boys are less likely to participate in performing arts than girls, conditional on participating, they are significantly more likely to be leaders. White boys, in particular, have a strong leadership advantage compared with all other schoolmates, and especially to girls of color. The significant disadvantage girls of color face relative to White boys in attaining leadership within feminized domains in high school parallels established patterns in the occupational sphere. To the extent that early leadership experience begets future skills, opportunities, and pursuit of leadership positions, such early disadvantages may be expected to compound over the life course, influencing gendered and racialized role expectations and sorting.
The effect of a motor relearning on balance and postural control in patients after stroke: An open-label randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ghrouz Amer , Guillen-Sola Anna , Morgado-Perez Andrea , Muñoz-Redondo Elena , Ramírez-Fuentes Cindry , Curbelo Peña Yulibeth , Duarte Esther
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Balance and postural control impairments are common in stroke patients, increasing fall risk and limiting their daily and social activities. Current research lacks comprehensive studies evaluating the efficacy and long-term effects of task-specific training on balance and postural control among stroke patients, especially when considering biomechanical and posturographic assessments.

Patients and Methods:

A randomized controlled trial included 63 subacute stroke patients recruited from the outpatient rehabilitation department. Participants were randomly assigned to the MRP group (n=32), receiving task-specific training based on MRP, or the CPT group (n=31), receiving conventional physical therapy. Both groups completed an 8-week intervention (3 sessions/week; 1 h./session). Balance and postural control were assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and posturography.

Results:

The MRP group exhibited significantly larger improvements than the CPT group in both BBS scores (p=0.001, d=2.98, 95% CI [2.25, 3.70]) and Balance Index scores (p=0.001, d=2.83, 95% CI [2.12, 3.53]) after the intervention. These improvements were sustained at 3-month follow-up.

Discussion:

The findings suggest that task-specific training based on MRP is more effective than CPT for improving balance and postural control. The MRP intervention may enhance the motor learning and neural plasticity of the patients, leading to better functional outcomes. However, the study’s open-label design represents a limitation, and further research with adequate blinding is needed.

Conclusion:

Task-specific training based on MRP was superior to CPT for improving balance and postural control in subacute stroke patients. Participants undergoing MRP exhibited significant and clinically relevant improvements that were sustained at follow-up.
Information Needs and Its Association With Depressive Symptoms in People With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yuan Jinjin , Wang Jinle , Wang Yueying , Wu Huihui , Jia Yun , Zhao Chunyan , Zhu Bingqian , Fritschi Cynthia
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to describe the information needs and examine its association with depressive symptoms in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods:

A descriptive, correlational design was used. People with T2D (N = 358) were recruited from 12 communities in Shanghai, China. Self-reported information needs and depressive symptoms were measured using the Information Needs in Diabetes Questionnaire and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), respectively. Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed.

Results:

The participants were 64.8 years on average, and 46.6% were men. One hundred fifty-one (42.2%) had depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 5). Participants had the least knowledge about “diabetes research,” “acute complications,” and “lifestyle adjustment.” The sample had the highest levels of information needs about topics including “mental strain,” “treatment/therapy,” and “diabetes in everyday life.” Compared to those without depressive symptoms, those experiencing depressive symptoms were less informed and had higher levels of need for further information. Controlling for covariates, higher levels of need for further information were significantly associated with greater depressive symptoms (B = 0.368, 95% CI, 0.155-0.582, P = .001).

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated areas that should be prioritized when meeting patients’ information needs. It also showed the potential negative effect of unmet information needs on depression. These findings may help develop a more tailored intervention for people with T2D.
The Relationship Between Noncognitive (Emotional Intelligence) Variables on Academic GPA Among Sonography or Radiography Students After 1-Year Course Completion
Authors: Miller Elena
Published: December 2023

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and grade point average (GPA) in a cohort of sonography (DMS) or radiography (RT) students. Furthermore, this study explored whether an EI model, such as the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (TEIQue), demonstrated a significant association with GPA and could potentially be used as a part of the admission process.

Materials and Methods:

The TEIQue questionnaire that collected participants’ EI and demographic data was administered to students in both educational programs. Data were obtained at the beginning of each respective program and 1 year later. Students’ GPA was examined over three college semesters.

Results:

In total, 26 participants enrolled. This cohort included 10 DMS and 16 RT students enrolled for an associate’s degree in an applied sciences program within a community college. No significant relationship was observed between academic GPA and global EI, as well as three subscales of trait EI. Global trait EI for DMS ( P = .35) and RT students ( P = .05) demonstrated nonsignificant relationships with students’ GPAs, respectively.

Conclusion:

These results demonstrated that there was no significant relationship between noncognitive variables, such as EI, among DMS or RT students and academic GPA. Further studies should investigate whether these findings were similar to those in other diagnostic imaging programs.
Right paraduodenal hernia, classification, and selection of surgical methods: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wang Xiao-Long , Jin Gui-Xiu , Xu Jian-Feng , Chen Zhi-Rong , Wu Li-Meng , Jiang Zhi-Long
Published: December 2023

Background

Considering that right paraduodenal hernia is a rare internal hernia with abnormal anatomy and is often encountered during an emergency, surgeons may lack knowledge about it and choose incorrect treatment. Thus, this case report is a helpful complement to the few previously reported cases of right paraduodenal hernia. Additionally, we reviewed all the reported right paraduodenal hernia cases and proposed appropriate surgical strategies according to different anatomical features.

Case presentation

The case involved a 33-year-old Chinese male patient who was admitted to the hospital due to abdominal pain. The patient was initially diagnosed with small bowel obstruction, and conservative treatment failed. An emergency operation was arranged, during which a diagnosis of right paraduodenal hernia was made instead. After surgery, the patient recovered well without abdominal pain for 2 years.

Conclusion

Although right paraduodenal hernia accounts only for a small proportion of paraduodenal hernia, its anatomical characteristics can vary considerably. We divided right paraduodenal hernia into three types, with each type requiring a different surgical strategy.
Treatment approaches to Motor Speech Disorders: A step towards Evidence Based Practice
Authors: Ashraf Anum , Mumtaz Nazia , Saqulain Ghulam
Published: December 2023

Motor Speech Disorders is an umbrella term for a set of separate dysfunctions of speech outcome associated with neurological disorders. Motor speech disorders (MSD) are classified as Speech Motor delay (SMD), Childhood dysarthria (CD), Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), and Concurrent CD and CAS. The incidence and prevalence of MSD in population is uncertain. A research gap exists, making evidence-based practice questionable as regards intervention for MSD and is an area of research.

Hence, current narrative review was conducted to review and highlight treatment of MSD since evidence-based treatment approach may benefit patient even years after a brain lesion. To achieve this objective literature search was conducted using search engines and data bases including google, google scholar, web of science & PubMed from 1998 to 2023 with keywords “motor speech disorder, dysarthria, apraxia, speech motor delay and combinations of these words with English language and no other limitations. Our search revealed 170 articles, news, publications of which 34 were used for review (Fig.1).

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8096

How to cite this: Ashraf A, Mumtaz N, Saqulain G. Treatment approaches to Motor Speech Disorders - A step towards Evidence Based Practice. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):544-548. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8096

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey’in taksimlerindeki yorum unsurlarının incelenmesi
Authors: Erdoğan Cafer Sami
Published: December 2023

Türk mûsikîsi kânun icrâ üslûbunda bir ekol icrâcı olarak kabul edilmesi ve ilk kânun kayıtlarının kendisine ait olması sebebiyle Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey oldukça önem arz etmektedir. Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey, kânun icrâ üslûbuna yerleşmiş fiske çarpma, kaydırma, mızraplı çarpma gibi yorum unsurlarını ustalıkla kullanmış ve kendisinden sonra yetişen kânun icrâcılarına yol gösterip ilham kaynağı olmuştur. Bu araştırma Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey’in taksimlerinde Türk mûsikîsi icrâ üslûbu çerçevesinde kullandığı yorum unsurlarını tespit etmek ve somutlaştırıp ortaya koymak amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırma ilgili literatürün taranması ve mevcut durumun ortaya koyulması sebebi ile “betimsel” bir araştırmadır. Araştırma modeli olarak nitel araştırma türlerinden doküman analizi kullanılmıştır. İnternet ortamındaki müzik platformları ve özel arşiv taramalarında ulaşabildiğim Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey’e ait olan Hicaz, Hüseyni ve Suzinak makamlarında 3 adet taksim yorum ve ifâde unsurları bakımından incelenmiştir. Yorum unsurların tespiti için alan uzman Prof. Dr. Mehmet Gönül’ün eserlerine başvurulmuştur. Araştırmada Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey’e ait Hicaz, Hüseynî ve Sûzinak makamlarında üç adet taksim dikte edilmiştir. Taksimlerde kullandığı fiske çarpma, mızraplı çarpma, öncü çarpma, karar/oktav dem tutma, kaydırma, fiske ile susturma, titretme yorum unsurları ayrıca taksimlerindeki tartım kullanımı ve gider anlayışı incelenmiş ve örneklerle gösterilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda Hacı Arif Bey’in kullandığı yorum unsurlarının günümüz kânûnîleri tarafından uygulandığından dolayı ekol icracı olarak takip edildiği düşünebilir. Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey’in taksim icrâlarında kullandığı yorum unsurlarını kânun eğitiminde uygulamak için kânun eğitimine yönelik materyaller oluşturulmalıdır. Kânûnî Hacı Arif Bey’in icrâ üslûbunu anlayıp uygulamak için; perde anlayışını, seyit ve makam kullanımlarını, taksimlerinde yaptığı geçkileri, kânununu teknik açıdan nasıl icrâ ettiğini irdeleyen çalışmalar yapılmalıdır.
Narrative observation about music institutionalization through music educational institutions in Kosovo (1948-2020)
Authors: Perkola Kristina
Published: December 2023

The institutionalization of music in Kosovo emerged as a necessary process, playing a pivotal role in fostering sustainable cultural and social development. Its profound effectiveness became evident in the musical trajectory of cultural advancements from the 1950s and 60s onwards. Music schools stood as the primary catalysts, generating a cadre of music professionals involved in various facets of musical productivity. They provided comprehensive professional training to the entire musical community, encompassing composers, conductors, instrumentalists, and pedagogues, who actively contributed to the vibrant musical activities. The year 1948 marked a significant milestone with the establishment of the first music school, initially named ‘Josip Slavenski’ and now known as ‘Lorenc Antoni,’ in Prizren. This was followed by the inception of the music school ‘Stevan Mokranjac,’ later renamed ‘Prenk Jakova,’ in Prishtina in 1949. These institutions served as foundational pillars, laying the groundwork for the subsequent development of a multidimensional music landscape. Notably, the establishment of the Higher Pedagogical School (Branch of Music Education) in 1963 and the Music Academy in 1975 represented crucial milestones, marking the expansion and enrichment of the music sector. The period between 1990 and 1999, characterized by a tumultuous socio-political landscape, posed significant challenges to music education. In the years following 2000, music education in Kosovo continued to adapt and evolve, reflecting to the changing socio-political and cultural landscape. This era witnessed new processes of the established institutional forms and typologies, prompting the adoption of new curricula and a re- evaluation of music education within the context of the evolving social reality and market demands. Furthermore, the demand for music education continued to grow, leading to the establishment of more music schools and programs throughout the country. In general, since 1948, music education in Kosovo represents an unstoppable process that in terms of historical importance, it represents the cornerstone of all professional musical developments in Kosovo.
A study on Bernard Herrmann’s science fiction film music
Authors: Park Byung-kyu , Lee Johee
Published: December 2023

The early sound film and “classical-style” Hollywood film periods were important representatives in the history of Hollywood films, producing many classic films as well as many famous film music composers. Among them, Bernard Herrmann was a unique and distinctive representative with his own personal compositional style, and was also the representative composer for thriller, horror, mystery and science fiction films during this period. When analyzing film music, especially Bernard Herrmann’s works, using tonal music analysis, many harmonic progressions cannot be accurately expressed. Harmonic function analysis emphasizes the principles of tonality, while neo-Riemannian theory breaks away from the framework of tonality and harmonic functions, emphasizing the spatial progression between chords. For Bernard Herrmann’s music, using neo-Riemannian theory can reasonably analyze the characteristics and patterns of musical progression, and explain many chord progressions that harmonic functions cannot. One of the films that can be given as an example of this situation is The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951). The Day the Earth Stood Still is a Hollywood science fiction film made in 1951. This work played an important role in the development of later science fiction films. Bernard Herrmann chose to abandon the traditional orchestral instrumentation and used a specific instrumental ensemble to form Herrmann’s unique science fiction film music space. Transformational analysis shows that the music uses modes, hexatonic scales and octatonic scales to form melodies and harmonies with ambiguous characteristics, and the use of these modes and scales also provides important color elements for film music of specific styles. Neo-Riemannian theory has been around for less than 50 years. As an emerging music theory system, it is not yet mature and complete, and is still expanding and improving. However, as an analysis tool for nonfunctional tonal film music, it can provide a brand new perspective. This researcher also believes that neo-Riemannian theory can provide theoretical basis for analyzing various styles of film music as an analytical tool.
Occupational stress in dental hygienists: A systematic review
Authors: Kim Yi-Seul , Kim Seul-Gi , Lim Soon-Ryun , Cho Su-Jung
Published: December 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze research literature, created over the past 10 years, on occupational stress among domestic dental hygienists and identify the major factors affecting occupational stress. Methods: Of the 192 articles found through literature searches, 26 were selected for the analysis after reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts. General characteristics of each study, measurement tools employed, and data related to pertinent factors were systematically analyzed. Results: Seven instruments were utilized to measure job stress. Among the variables exhibiting positive correlation with occupational stress, turnover intention was the most prevalent, while variables showing negative correlation were predominantly associated with job satisfaction. Factors influencing occupational stress included emotional labor, workload, organizational social capital, and experiencing verbal abuse. Conclusions: With regard to the most influential factors, “emotional labor” and “turnover intention” had the greatest impacts on job stress and occupational stress, respectively. Based on the findings of this study, follow-up research needs to be conducted to suggest ways to prevent, manage, and reduce occupational stress among dental hygienists
Evaluation of the physical properties and antibacterial effects on Candida albicans of denture base resin containing silver sulfadiazine
Authors: Choi Yu-Ri , Kang Min-Kyung
Published: December 2023

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical properties and antibacterial activity of denture base resin with added silver sulfadiazine. Methods: Specimens were made from self-curing denture base resin and silver sulfadiazine as an inorganic antibacterial agent. For physical evaluation of the specimens, surface roughness, surface hardness, and contact angle were measured. Bacterial growth was assessed by optical densityat 600 nm (OD600) and colony forming units (CFU) measurements to confirm antibacterial activity. Results: There was no significant difference in surface roughness, surface hardness, and contact angle in the experimental group containing silver sulfadiazine compared to the control group. In contrast, the experimental group showed a significant decrease in antibacterial activity compared to the control group in terms of OD value. Analysis of CFU confirmed a significant decrease in colonies in the experimental group compared to the control group. Conclusions: Denture base resin containing silver sulfadiazine, an inorganic antibacterial agent, exhibited enhanced antibacterial activity without physical changes. In conclusion, the use of denture base resin containing inorganic antibacterial agents may be expected in the future.
Realia in der ein- bzw. mehrsprachigen Museumskommunikation: das Beispiel „Volkskundemuseum“
Authors: Magris Marella
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to examine the strategies for conveying regional culture-bound terms in monolingual and bilingual (or multilingual) texts and chooses a type of museum for which such terms are particularly important: the folk museum. After a brief overview of this type of museum in Italy and Germany (section 2), section 3 deals with culture-bound terms, their classification and the strategies for introducing them in texts. Section 4 presents the empirical analysis carried out on a corpus of texts from the websites of 10 Italian and 10 German or Austrian folk museums. The use of realia was examined first in the monolingual, then in the multilingual museum communication.
Kulturelle Schlüsselwörter und ihre Ausdrucksvarianten im korpusgestützten Sprach- und Kulturvergleich
Authors: Höhmann Doris
Published: December 2023

By analysing large and very large corpora, it is possible to capture fine-grained subsections of semantic networks. This more precise capture on the basis of more meaningful datasets makes it possible to pursue various research questions that could previously have been considered but not investigated due to a lack of quantitative research options. From a discourse-analytical perspective, but also with regard to the use of keywords in pedagogical practices in museum contexts (see also Milanese 2014), this article focuses on the different meanings that the various variants of keywords possess and which, as will be shown on the basis of selected examples, are coupled with a different signal value that becomes apparent in intra- and interlingual comparison. Of particular interest is the divergence of communicative traditions.
In addition to a highly specialised corpus of specialist texts in of Germanand Italian on Renaissance works, the currently available German and Italian TenTen-corpora (itTenTen20, deTenTen20) are used as a data basis.
Museumskommunikation als Dimension der Kunstkommunikation.
Authors: Nardi Antonella , Ravetto Miriam
Published: December 2023

Art communication is a functional and specialized form of social communication constituting the meaning of art. It includes museum communication, understood not only as a transfer of individual and social knowledge about exhibits, but also as an opportunity to encounter art. The museum is thus a learning place as well as a space for experiences, emotions and relational exchanges.
This thematic issue deals with the role of language in museum communication concerning figurative art, in its relation both to other expression modes and to the target audiences with their different languages and cultures. Within this framework the active role of museum visitors in the reception of exhibited works, stimulated by the use of new technological formats, is discussed too.
In particular, the papers focus on three main aspects: the interaction between iconic and verbal language, the need for a target-oriented (multimodal) museum communication, and the investigation of multilingual and culture-specific knowledge transmission strategies.