bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Safety Analysis of a Fibrinogen Concentrate (RiaSTAP®/Haemocomplettan® P)
Authors: Rahe-Meyer Niels , Neumann Gabriele , Schmidt Dirk S , Downey Laura A
Published: May 2024

Fibrinogen concentrate treatment is recommended for acute bleeding episodes in adult and pediatric patients with congenital and acquired fibrinogen deficiency. Previous studies have reported a low risk of thromboembolic events (TEEs) with fibrinogen concentrate use; however, the post-treatment TEE risk remains a concern. A retrospective evaluation of RiaSTAP®/Haemocomplettan® P (CSL Behring, Marburg, Germany) post-marketing data was performed (January 1986–June 2022), complemented by a literature review of published studies. Approximately 7.45 million grams of fibrinogen concentrate was administered during the review period. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were reported in 337 patients, and 81 (24.0%) of these patients experienced possible TEEs, including 14/81 (17.3%) who experienced fatal outcomes. Risk factors and the administration of other coagulation products existed in most cases, providing alternative explanations. The literature review identified 52 high-ranking studies with fibrinogen concentrate across various clinical areas, including 26 randomized controlled trials. Overall, a higher number of comparative studies showed lower rates of ADRs and/or TEEs in the fibrinogen group versus the comparison group(s) compared with those that reported higher rates or no differences between groups. Post-marketing data and clinical studies demonstrate a low rate of ADRs, including TEEs, with fibrinogen concentrate treatment. These findings suggest a favorable safety profile of fibrinogen concentrate, placing it among the first-line treatments effective for managing intraoperative hemostatic bleeding.
Tribo-corrosion and mechanical performance of electro-deposited nano-composite h-BN/epoxy coating
Authors: Shaikh Muhammad Ahmed Nazir , Ravi Pravesh , Roselina NR Nik , Katiyar Jitendra Kumar
Published: May 2024

In this work, mild steel as a substrate was coated by electrodeposition in a bath mixed with nickel sulfate (NiSO4·6H2O), nickel chloride (NiCl4·6H2O), and boric acid (H3BO3) using nanocomposite cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, hBN, and epoxy with hardener. The experiments were designed using the Taguchi method through the L9 orthogonal array to reduce the number of experiments. The input parameters for the design of experiments were taken: the time (min), voltage (V), and the hBN concentration (wt-%). The coated samples were tested for their tribological, corrosion, and adhesion performance using pin-on-disc, electro-impedance spectroscopy, and cross hatch tester, respectively. The tribological results reveal that the coated sample of 3 wt-% hBN concentration at 3 mV voltage and 30-minute deposition time shows the lowest friction coefficient (∼0.42) among all the samples, indicating its superior wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Further, the same sample also outperformed the others, demonstrating the high adhesion (adhesion scale of 5 B) of coating with the substrate. Moreover, the surface was characterized using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transforms infrared, goniometer, and scanning electron microscopy.
‘Plastic stays beautiful’: Attributing temporal and moral qualities in Ghanaian Ewe funerary contexts
Authors: Bredenbröker Isabel
Published: May 2024

Plastics are as positively durable as they are easily breakable, almost impossible to mend and hard to get rid of. They promise eternal life, but their immortality may quickly turn them into the undead. This paper discusses the use and role of plastics in Ghanaian funerary contexts, specifically in a small-town community in the Ghanaian Volta Region. It investigates plastics’ agency as materials that may potentially either contain death successfully or become uncontained matter out of place, just as the dead may become contained or left wandering among the living. Different perspectives on plastics are brought into focus, highlighting how attributed qualities and meanings play into the making of ‘good’ or ‘bad’ death. The paper shows that plastics and persons jointly become subject to moral and temporal assessments in the realm between good and bad, finitude and durability. Beyond the ethnographic case study, the paper discusses the political potential of death and plastics within the larger global context of a cultural economy that reflects the ongoing effect of colonialism.
Revising sense of community to understand typical and extremist virtual communities
Authors: Blanchard Anita L
Published: May 2024

Virtual communities are online groups organized around a shared interest within which members exchange information and socio-emotional support. Some virtual communities are positive (e.g., cancer support groups) or at least neutral (e.g., cooking groups). Others, like extremist virtual communities, focus on spreading misinformation and supporting violence. Theory and research have not adequately addressed the creation, maintenance, and face-to-face consequences of pro-social, neutral, or extremist virtual communities. One reason is because the research relies on a definition and model of sense of community for which empirical validation is deficient. Following examples in the organizational sciences and social psychology, I revise the sense of community construct to focus on its core meaning: literally, a person’s perception that a group is a community. Then using entitativity and social identity theories, I develop a new model of sense of community and propose theoretical boundaries (e.g., membership, identity, and self-categorization) to explain why prosocial and extremist virtual communities differ. I end with the challenges facing a research program studying extremist virtual communities.
Colliding harms of gambling and gaming: A four-wave longitudinal population study of at-risk gambling and gaming in Finland
Authors: Oksanen Atte , Vuorinen Ilkka , Hagfors Heli , Soares Mantere Eerik , Savolainen Iina
Published: May 2024

Aims: Both gambling and digital gaming are growing in popularity and there is ongoing discussion about their convergence. This population-based longitudinal survey study investigated how gambling and digital gaming types contribute to at-risk gambling and gaming. Methods: The study was based on a representative sample of 18–75-year-olds from mainland Finland. Survey data were collected at 6 -month intervals in 2021–2022, starting in April 2021. Of original T1 respondents, 58.95% took part in all four time points. In total, 3,608 observations from 902 individuals were analysed. Outcome measures were at-risk gambling and gaming based on the Problem Gambling Severity Index and the Internet Gaming Disorder Test. Various types of gambling and gaming were investigated. Results: Population-averaged models showed that different forms of gambling were associated with a higher risk of at-risk gaming. Online casino games were associated with the highest likelihood of at-risk gambling and gaming. Prevalence of digital gaming problems was low. Hybrid models were used to investigate the longitudinal within-person and between-person effects of gambling and gaming activities. Online casino games and offline slot machines increased at-risk gambling. Microtransactions within digital games increased at-risk gambling and gaming over time, but the amount of money spent on digital gaming was small compared to gambling. Conclusions: Our results underline the risks of EGMs and online gambling for the participants. Although gambling and gaming are converging, harm is mostly based on gambling.
Experimental investigations to assess surface fatigue failure in rolling contact bearing
Authors: Kamarapu Santhosh Kumar , Muniyappa Amarnath , Kumar Perumalla Sateesh , Prasad Deepak Kumar , Vardhaman Bajane Srinivasa Ajay
Published: May 2024

Rolling element bearings are the most important components in almost all rotating machines. These bearings are often subjected to repetitive load cycles at different operating conditions. Excessive loads, speeds, and improper operating conditions lead to the propagation of defects on their load-bearing surfaces, thereby causing a negative impact on the performance of rotating machines. This paper presents the results of experimental investigations to assess wear propagation in roller bearings using lubricant degradation, vibration, and statistical parameter analysis methods. A roller bearing setup was developed in the laboratory, and the test bearing (NJ 307E) was subjected to fatigue tests over a period of 900 h. The bearing was operated at a speed and radial load of 800 rpm and 1 kN, respectively. The film thickness analysis revealed a transition in lubrication regimes during 600–900 h of operation. Grease structure degradation and oxidation analyses were carried out using scanning electron microscope images and the Fourier transform infrared radiation technique. Further, the vibration signals are extracted from the bearing housing at regular intervals. Using the fast Fourier transform technique, these vibration signals were used to analyze bearing fault frequencies to highlight the faults developed on bearing contact surfaces. The statistical features of vibration signals such as root mean square, kurtosis, and crest factor were used to assess the severity of wear propagated on the bearing contact surfaces. Integrating tribological and vibration parameter analysis techniques provided a reliable assessment of surface fatigue wear propagated on the roller-bearing contact surfaces.
A shift from contractarianism to ‘characterisation’: Assessing the ideal Australian approach for determining fiduciary duties in a commercial context
Authors: Trovato Claudio
Published: May 2024

In the wake of excessive judicial reliance on a contractarian approach to the assessment of fiduciary duties in commercial contexts, both judicial and academic concern has been voiced as to whether such an approach is the most appropriate to ensure fair dealing. What's more, the emergence of novel commercial relationships facilitated by changing values in business and exponential leaps in the capabilities and use of technology warrant a reassessment of whether contractarianism is fit for the purpose of ushering in appropriate legal analysis so that such new developments can be appropriately facilitated. This article argues that contractarianism is not fit for that purpose and that the ‘characterisation’ of the relationship between parties is a superior and more equitable approach to determining the extent of fiduciary duties in commercial contexts.
Effect of high-temperature molten salt corrosion on the mechanical properties of stainless steel
Authors: Chen Xia , Xie Ying , Wu Yuting , Bian Jiaojiao , Ma Chongfang
Published: May 2024

The corrosivity of molten salt can be detrimental to the safe operation and longevity of concentrated solar thermal power generation equipment. Additionally, the presence of impurity Cl− can increase corrosion on metal materials, leading to mechanical property degradation. To assess the extent of this effect, the corrosion behaviour of three types of stainless steel (304, 316L, and 347H) in molten salt at high temperatures was studied using the loss-in-weight method and tensile tests. According to the findings, the Rdepths of 304, 316L, and 347H stainless steels are 0.0018 mm/a, 0.0016 mm/a, and 0.0019 mm/a, respectively, resulting in a decrease in elongation of 12.2%, 7.0%, and 3.7% after 720 h of corrosion at 600°C. Furthermore, at a higher temperature of 680°C, the Rdepths of all stainless steels increased, and the elongation decreased by 25.4%, 18.9%, and 13.5%, respectively. Similar corrosion behaviour was observed in 347H stainless steel with increased chloride ion concentration. However, the yield strength and tensile strength of stainless steel did not exhibit significant changes under different experimental conditions. The corrosion mechanism of metal alloys in molten salt is mainly due to the selective corrosion of Cr and its dissolution into molten salt in the form of ions.
Appreciative Inquiry: An Integrative Review of Studies in Three Disciplines
Authors: Cho Hyerim , Ardichvili Alexandre
Published: May 2024

This integrative literature review aims to review, critique, and synthesize the existing literature on appreciative inquiry (AI) in three disciplines where the most significant number of AI-related articles could be found: healthcare, higher education, and management. We sought to identify critical insights, along with similarities and divergencies between the three fields. We identified diverse reasons for adopting AI methods and differing degrees to which researchers adhere to the 4D cycle. The reviewed literature suggests that AI yields positive effects across three levels (individual, group, and organization). Our results indicate that positive impacts from AI can be achieved even when not all steps of the 4D cycle are strictly followed. Furthermore, we discovered numerous innovative AI applications and multiple instances of using modified AI models. Based on our research findings, we proposed a systems model for understanding the AI process and offered implications for both HRD research and practice.
Multimodality Imaging in Rothia dentocariosa Infective Endocarditis and Internal Iliac Artery Infectious Aneurysm
Authors: Boukobza Monique , Raffoul Richard , Laissy Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2024

Background: Aneurysms of the internal iliac artery in infective endocarditis are extremely rare, with few cases reported in the literature, and Rothia dentocariosa infective endocarditis are rare. Analysis: We describe the case of a previously healthy 62-year-old male who presented a Rothia dentocariosa infective endocarditis. Results: Multi-modality imaging revealed an aneurysm of the left internal iliac artery, which was clinically silent. The patient was treated with antibiotics and semi-emergent bioprosthesis aortic valve replacement. Follow-up multi-modality imaging showed the regression of the aneurysm. Conclusion: This case shows that an aneurysm of the internal iliac artery in infective endocarditis can regress under antibiotherapy alone. This case also highlights the ability of PET/CT to identify and follow such an aneurysm.
The Mobility Interview: Triangulating Interview and Global Positioning System Data to Explore the Role of Mobility in Everyday Life
Authors: van Dülmen Christoph , Šimon Martin , Bischof Susann , Bernard Josef , Keim-Klärner Sylvia , Decker Anja , Daňková Hana , Eysholdt Max , Klärner Andreas
Published: May 2024

This article presents a mixed-methods research protocol suitable for studying everyday mobility and its effects on life chances for a wide range of populations. We argue that it can address, among other issues, two important methodological challenges in the study of mobility: addressing pre-reflexivity and habits, as well as differentiating between voluntary and forced movements. The research protocol combines a problem-centered interview, two weeks of GPS tracking, and a subsequent mobility interview. It has been shaped by its application to more than 60 socially disadvantaged residents of rural peripheries as part of an international research project. It contributes to existing qualitative methods of spatial analysis because its design incorporates not only theoretical considerations but also insights of real-world application from conducting it in varied contexts and with different populations, which are typically underrepresented in more elaborate research designs. Nevertheless, due to its thematic openness, the design is not only interesting for mobility research, but also for other research focusing on spatial phenomena at the individual level. We provide a detailed account of the method’s implementation, contextualize it in relation to previous approaches, and discuss the analytical potential of the data obtained. We suggest that by triangulating movement data with interview data, perceptions and meanings of everyday mobility can be uncovered that would otherwise remain at a pre-reflexive level.
Insulin Requirements According to Sex and Weight in a Population of 9036 Adult Persons With Type 1 Diabetes Using Closed-Loop Insulin Delivery
Authors: Lebbad Hocine , Desir Chesner , Vesin Aurélien , Adenis Alice , Charpentier Guillaume , Benhamou Pierre-Yves
Published: May 2024

Background:

The prediction of the individual insulin needs may facilitate the initiation of insulin therapy. Our aim was to explore the relationships between body weight, sex, and daily amounts of insulin delivered by a hybrid closed-loop system.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective data collection of all consenting adult patients with type 1 diabetes who were equipped in Europe with the Diabeloop Generation 1 (DBLG1) hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery device between March 1, 2021 and February 28, 2023.

Results:

A total of 9036 users (59% females, age 45.6 ± 14.3 years) were included, reaching a mean follow-up of 320 ± 143 days, an overall 2 887 188 days of data. We observed a mean insulin-weight ratio of 0.617 ± 0.207 U/kg (0.665 ± 0.217 for males and 0.584 ± 0.193 for females, P < .001). Exploratory analysis of a subset of 4066 patients reaching >70% Time in Range (70-180 mg/dL) showed a mean insulin-weight ratio of 0.55 ± 0.17 U/kg ( P < .001) (0.59 ± 0.18 for the 1438 males and 0.53 ± 0.16 for the 2628 females).

Conclusion:

This large real-world analysis provides a quantitative estimation of the daily insulin requirements in adult patients with type 1 diabetes and shows significant differences between sex. These findings have relevant implications in the practical management of insulin therapy.
The Association of High and Low Glycation With Incident Diabetic Retinopathy in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Shah Viral N. , Kanapka Lauren G. , Karakus Kagan Ege , Kollman Craig , Beck Roy W.
Published: May 2024

Background:

We investigated the risk of incident diabetic retinopathy (DR) among high glycator compared to low glycator patients based on the hemoglobin glycation index (HGI). Visit-to-visit variations in HGI also were assessed.

Methods:

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and continuous glucose monitoring data were collected up to 7 years prior to the date of eye examination defining incident DR or no retinopathy (control). Hemoglobin glycation index was calculated as difference in measured HbA1c and an estimated A1c from sensor glucose (eA1c) to define high (HbA1c − eA1c >0%) or low (HbA1c − eA1c <0%) glycator. Stable glycators were defined as ≥75% of visits with same HGI category. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between glycation category and incident DR.

Results:

Of 119 adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), 49 (41%) were stable low glycator (HbA1c − eA1c <0%), 36 (30%) were stable high glycator (HbA1c − eA1c >0%), and 34 (29%) were unstable glycator. Using alternate criteria to define high vs low glycator (consistent difference in HbA1c − eA1c of > 0.4% or <0.4%, respectively), 53% of the adults were characterized as unstable glycator. Compared to low glycators, high glycators did not have a significantly higher risk for incident DR over time when adjusted for age, T1D duration and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor type (odds ratio [OR] = 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.48-3.62, P = .15).

Conclusions:

The risk of diabetic retinopathy was not found to differ significantly comparing high glycators to low glycators in adults with T1D. Moreover, HbA1c − eA1c relationship was not stable in nearly 30% to 50% adults with T1D, suggesting that discordance in HbA1c and eA1c are mostly related either HbA1c measurements or estimation of A1c from sensor glucose rather than physiological reasons.
Acute ischemic colitis complicating an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A case report of gut-lung crosstalk
Authors: Mejda Zakhama , Alaa Nciri , Ahlem Bellalah , Mohamed Hichem Loghmari , Arwa Guediche , Imen Jemni , Ben Chaabene Nabil , Abdelfattah Zakhama , Leila Safer
Published: May 2024

Acute ischemic colitis is a pathology as frequent as it is serious and requires urgent management. It’s often occurring in a context of particular thromboembolic or hypovolemic risk, but certain clinical situations are not commonly known to provide mesenteric ischemia. Herein, we report the case of a 47-year-old man who presented with a severe acute colitis occurring in the course of acute exacerbation of a chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases with maintained stability of hemodynamic state. The diagnosis of acute ischemic colitis complicating an exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases was made. A clinical and biological improvement quickly marked the patient’s condition after the management of the respiratory problem.
Association between nutritional status assessed by a digital self-administered tool (R+ dietitian) and clinicopathologic factors in cancer patients: A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Zhu Jianmei , Wang Silu , Li Tenglong , Long Zhiwen , He Chengyuan , Xie Ke , Huang Shan
Published: May 2024

Objective

Malnutrition is prevalent among cancer patients, smartphone-based self-administered nutritional assessment tools offer a promising solution for effective nutritional screening. This study aims to retrospectively analyze the relationships between nutritional status evaluated by the digital tool (R+ Dietitian) and clinicopathologic factors of cancer patients.

Methods

Cancer patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into two subgroups based on age, Nutritional Risk Screening-2002, Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form, body mass index, and hospital stays for comparison. Correlation and regression analysis were used to comprehensively assess the relationship between nutritional status and clinicopathologic factors.

Findings

A total of 535 hospitalized cancer patients (58.32 ± 11.24 years old) were recruited. Patients identified with nutritional risk assessed by R+ Dietitian were significantly older, had lower body weight, lower body mass index, greater weight loss, and longer hospital stays (all of above, P < 0.01). Multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that serum prealbumin concentration (odds ratio: 0.992, 95% confidence interval: 0.987–0.997, P = 0.001), weight loss (odds ratio: 7.309, 95% confidence interval: 4.026–13.270, P < 0.001), and body mass index < 18.5 (odds ratio: 5.882, 95% confidence interval: 2.695–12.821, P < 0.001) predicted nutritional risk indicated by Nutritional Risk Screening-2002 score ≥3. Hemoglobin concentration (odds ratio: 0.983, 95% confidence interval: 0.970–0.996, P = 0.011), weight (odds ratio: 1.111, 95% confidence interval: 1.056–1.169, P < 0.001), weight loss (odds ratio: 7.502, 95% confidence interval: 4.394–12.810, P < 0.001), body mass index (odds ratio: 0.661, 95% confidence interval: 0.564–0.775, P < 0.001), and energy intake (odds ratio: 0.996, 95% confidence interval: 0.995–0.997, P < 0.001) predicted nutritional risk indicated by Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form score ≥4. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment Short Form scores ≥3 ( b = 2.032, P = 0.008) were significantly associated with longer hospital stays.

Conclusions

The nutritional risks assessed by R+ Dietitian accurately reflected the characteristics of malnutrition in cancer patients and predicted hospital stay and cost, indicating the applicability of R+ Dietitian to improving the efficiency of nutritional management for cancer patients.
Parenting and Gender as Impact Factors for Social Participation, Quality of Life, and Mental Health in Long COVID
Authors: Schröder Dominik , Schmachtenberg Tim , Heinemann Stephanie , Müllenmeister Christina , Roder Sascha , El-Sayed Iman , Heesen Gloria , Königs Gloria , Dopfer-Jablonka Alexandra , Hummers Eva , Mikuteit Marie , Dopfer Christian , Grewendorf Simon , Niewolik Jacqueline , Steffens Sandra , Doze Valerie , Klawonn Frank , Müller Frank
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

This study aims to investigate the impact of gender and parental tasks on social participation, health-related quality of life (hrQoL), and mental health in persons with long COVID.

Methods:

A mixed-methods approach was followed including a cross-sectional web-based survey and semi-structured interviews. Multivariable linear regressions were used to quantify the effect of gender and parenting tasks on social participation, hrQoL, and mental health. Qualitative data from interviews with participants experiencing long COVID symptoms was analyzed using content analysis.

Results:

Data from 920 participants in the quantitative study and 25 participants in the qualitative study was analyzed. Parenting tasks were associated with increased impairments in family and domestic responsibilities in persons with long COVID compared to lower impairments in persons without long COVID ( P = .02). The qualitative data indicate that coping with long COVID and pursuing parenting tasks limit participants’ ability to perform leisure activities and attend social gatherings. In long COVID, men had higher anxiety symptoms than women, and in those without long COVID, the opposite was observed ( P < .001). In the qualitative study, participants expressed feelings of dejection and pessimism about their future private, occupational, and health situations. No differences between the genders could be observed.

Conclusions:

Long COVID is associated with impairments in family and domestic responsibilities in individuals who have parenting tasks. Among participants with long COVID, anxiety symptoms are higher in men than women.
The Impediments to the Process of Implementing Robotics in the School Education System in Uzbekistan
Authors: Yuldashevna Indira Abdullaeva , Khurana Karan
Published: May 2024

Uzbekistan has not adopted robotics education as the school curriculum yet. However, several robotics learning centers have introduced robotics education in an informal setting. This research paper aims to highlight the essence of robotics education in Uzbekistan investigating the perception of parents and children to their full potential and identifying impediments to the process of implementing robotics in Uzbekistan. This research study involves primary and secondary research methods. A systematic literature review was conducted to examine the reflection of robotics education among primary and secondary school children. Official statistical data was gathered to prove the scope of demographics. Primary data was collected through the survey among parents whose children attended robotics classes. Ultimately, the authors have used empirical evidence to provide recommendations and solutions on how to implement robotics education effectively in Uzbekistan. Much emphasis has not been put on robotics education in Uzbekistan, despite reforms in the field of STEM education. Moreover, the condition (including teachers, lesson materials, classrooms, computers, and robotics kits) to implement robotics classes as more developed countries are doing has not been created properly, which hampers the introduction of robotics at schools. In addition, the majority of parents are not fully aware of the authentic value of robotics education in children’s lives. Hence, Uzbek schools are lagging in the field of robotics.
Cancer Prevention Among Firefighters: Examining Lifestyle, Screening Behavior, and Beliefs
Authors: Glasgow Trevin E. , Burch James B. , Arcan Chrisa , Fuemmeler Bernard F.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Firefighters are at increased risk of developing cancer due to occupational exposures, but they may also face increased risk due to their lifestyle, such as the quality of their diet and physical activity. Cancer beliefs and screening behavior could also influence their cancer risk. The current study aimed to identify individual differences associated with lifestyle behaviors, cancer screening, and cancer beliefs among firefighters; to describe the strategies firefighters use to adapt to their work schedule; and to describe topics firefighters believe are the most important to address in their workplace.

Methods:

Career firefighters ( N = 171) in a medium-sized U.S. city completed an online survey.

Findings:

Logistic regression analyses identified age, education, racial identity, years of fire service, perceived stress, and rank as predictors of responses to items addressing cancer screening, lifestyle behaviors, and cancer beliefs. Although results varied, age, education, and racial identity were associated with most of the outcomes. Strategies related to sleep such as getting the right amount and napping, exercise, and getting family/roommate support were selected as the top adaptive strategies for work. Sleep, mental health/well-being, and work-life balance were selected most often as the most important topics to address in the fire service, with topics related to reducing occupational exposures receiving less attention.

Conclusions/Application to Practice:

The findings suggest individual differences, such as age, education, and racial identity, should be considered when developing occupational health interventions for firefighters. Interventions related to mental health, work-life balance, and sleep may be desired most by those in the fire service.
Effects of intraoperative hinge fracture on postoperative cervical spine alignment in double door cervical laminoplasty
Authors: Wong Yu Chung , Chau Wai Wang , Kwok Kin On , Law Sheung Wai
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hinge fracture and cervical kyphosis are known complications of cervical laminoplasty. Prior literatures on hinge fracture focused mainly on laminoplasty performed using the open-door technique. In this study we aim to assess the effect of intraoperative hinge fracture on postoperative cervical spine alignment in cervical laminoplasty performed using the double door technique.

Methods

This study recruited patients who received double door cervical laminoplasty from January 2014 to December 2022. The diagnosis, demographic data, preoperation and postoperation cervical spine alignment of the patients with intraoperative hinge fracture were compared with patients withouintraoperative hinge fracture. Cervical spine alignment was measured using C2–7 Cobb's angle on neutral lateral cervical spine X ray.

Results

Nine patients with intraoperative hinge fracture and 51 patients without intraoperative hinge fracture were recruited into the study. There was no statistically significant difference in age, sex, diagnosis and preoperative cervical spine alignment between the patients with and without intraoperative hinge fracture. Significant difference was found in the postoperation cervical spine alignment (1.9 ± 15.5° vs 9.7 ± 13.6°, p = .044) and change in cervical spine alignment (−12.9 ± 12.1° vs −4.0 ± 10.0, p = .02) between patients with and without intraoperative hinge fracture.

Conclusions

In double door cervical laminoplasty, intraoperative hinge fracture is associated with development of postoperative cervical kyphosis.
The curing kinetics and properties of self-healing and thermally conductive polymeric composites based on ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer filled with nano alumina
Authors: Lin Hongyi , Zhang Yuchi , Gao Renjin , Wang Liwei , Xia Jianrong , Xue Hanyu
Published: May 2024

We have investigated a self-healing thermally conductive Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) hot melt adhesive (NAEDS, which denotes the addition of nano-alumina and disulfide bonded EVA hot melt adhesives) that can be used to effectively solve adhesive layer separation problem in photovoltaic (PV) modules and the difficulty of recycling. More specifically, we used diallyl disulfide as a cross-linking agent for EVA and alumina nanofillers as a reinforcing phase. The nano alumina filler gave the EVA better thermal conductivity. We used FTIR, SEM, and DSC to characterize and analyze NAEDS properties. The disulfide bonds in NAEDS underwent a rearrangement reaction under ultraviolet light, resulting in the self-healing of the resin (self-healing efficiency of 78.8%). The added nano alumina not only reduced the resin curing activation energy, improving its curing performance but also enhanced its thermal conductivity, achieving a 2.61 W/(m*k) thermal conductivity coefficient. The overall NAEDS performance is improved.
Determinants of physical activity promotion in primary care from the patient perspective of people at risk of or living with chronic disease: a COM-B analysis
Authors: McGrath Aisling , Lambe Barry , Matthews Evan , McDonnell Karolyn , Harrison Michael , Kehoe Bróna
Published: May 2024

Background

Chronic disease (CD) accounts for more than half of the overall global disease burden and physical activity (PA) is an established evidence-based strategy for the prevention and management of CD. Global policy emphasises the value of embedding PA into primary healthcare, highlighting the positive effects on PA behaviour. However, there is limited implementation of PA protocols in primary care, and research is needed to guide its integration into routine practice. The voice of the patient is underrepresented in the literature, resulting in the absence of critical insights into determinants of PA promotion in primary care. The purpose of the research was to identify the perspectives of people at risk of or living with CD on the determinants of PA promotion in primary care and to map these determinants across the six COM-B constructs.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews (n = 22), guided by the COM-B model were conducted with people aged 35–60 years, at risk of or living with CD and not meeting the PA guidelines. A hybrid analytic approach of thematic inductive and deductive analysis was applied to the participant transcripts guided by a COM-B informed coding framework.

Results

In total, 37 determinants across constructs related to capability, opportunity and motivation were prominent, examples include; physical capability constraints, the conflation of exercise with weight management, credibility of the health services in PA advice, communication styles in PA promotion, expectations of tailored support for PA, social support, accessibility, and integration of PA into routine habits.

Conclusion

Exploring the determinants of PA promotion through the lens of the COM-B model facilitated a systematic approach to understanding the primary care user perspective of the healthcare professional (HCP) broaching the topic of PA. Findings emphasise the value of HCPs being supported to broach the issue of PA in a therapeutic and patient-centred manner using diverse and flexible approaches, while highlighting the importance of tailored, accessible PA opportunities that build self-efficacy and foster social support. The research provides valuable learnings to support PA promotion and the development of strategies in primary care through encompassing the perspective of those living with or at risk of CD.
Prevalence and risk factors for dementia and mild cognitive impairment among older people in Southeast China: a community-based study
Authors: Jiang Bin , Liu Qi , Li Jian-Peng , Lin Si-Ning , Wan Hui-Juan , Yu Zi-Wen , Wang Jing , Zhuang Wei , Tang Jia-Hui , Chen Cai-Hong , Li Fa-Yin , Bi Min , Xiao Nai-An , Zheng Kun-Mu
Published: May 2024

Background

With the aging population, the number of individuals with dementia in China is increasing rapidly. This community-based study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for dementia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among older adults in China.

Methods

In this study, 20,070 individuals aged ≥ 65 were recruited between January 1, 2022, and February 1, 2023, from ten communities in Xiamen City, China. We collected data on age, sex, level of education, and medical history, as well as global cognition and functional status. The prevalence of dementia and MCI was examined, and the risk factors for different groups were assessed.

Results

The overall prevalence of dementia and MCI was approximately 5.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.1–5.7) and 7.7% (95% CI, 7.4–8.1), respectively. The results also indicated that dementia and MCI share similar risk factors, including older age, female sex, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Compared with individuals with no formal education, those with > 6 years of education had an odds ratio for MCI of 1.83 (95% CI, 1.49–2.25). We also found that only 5.5% of the positive participants chose to be referred to the hospital for further diagnosis and treatment during follow-up visits.

Conclusions

This study estimated the prevalence and risk factors for dementia and MCI among individuals aged ≥ 65 years in Southeast China. These findings are crucial for preventing and managing dementia and MCI in China.
Vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 delta-variant in a preterm infant
Authors: Zia Muhammad T.K. , Kumar Kishan , Gamma Edmund La , Shakeel Fauzia , Hanna Iman , Lin Xinhua , Hanna Nazeeh
Published: May 2024

Background

As SARS-CoV-2 continues to be relevant and cause illnesses, the effect of emerging virus variants on perinatal health remains to be elucidated. It was demonstrated that vertical transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is a relatively rare event in the original SARS-CoV-2 strain. However, very few reports describe vertical transmission related to the delta-variant.

Case presentation

We report a case of a preterm male neonate born to a mother with positive SARS-CoV-2 and mild respiratory complications. The neonate was born by cesarean section due to fetal distress. The rupture of the amniotic membrane was at delivery. The neonate had expected prematurity-related complications. His nasopharyngeal swabs for RT-PCR were positive from birth till three weeks of age. RT-ddPCR of the Placenta showed a high load of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with subgenomic viral RNA. RNAscope technique demonstrated both the positive strand of the S gene and the orf1ab negative strand. Detection of subgenomic RNA and the orf1ab negative strand indicats active viral replication in the placenta.

Conclusions

Our report demonstrates active viral replication of the SARS-CoV-2 delta-variant in the placenta associated with vertical transmission in a preterm infant.
Using structured problem solving to promote fluid consumption in the prevention of urinary stones with hydration (PUSH) trial
Authors: Reese Peter P. , Shah Salima , Funsten Emily , Amaral Sandra , Audrain-McGovern Janet , Koepsell Kristen , Wessells Hunter , Harper Jonathan D. , McCune Rebecca , Scales Charles D. , Kirkali Ziya , Maalouf Naim M. , Lai H. Henry , Desai Alana C. , Al-Khalidi Hussein R. , Tasian Gregory E.
Published: May 2024

Background

Structured Problem Solving (SPS) is a patient-centered approach to promoting behavior change that relies on productive collaboration between coaches and participants and reinforces participant autonomy. We aimed to describe the design, implementation, and assessment of SPS in the multicenter Prevention of Urinary Stones with Hydration (PUSH) randomized trial.

Methods

In the PUSH trial, individuals with a history of urinary stone disease and low urine output were randomized to control versus a multicomponent intervention including SPS that was designed to promote fluid consumption and thereby prevent recurrent stones. We provide details specifically about training and fidelity assessment of the SPS coaches. We report on implementation experiences related to SPS during the initial conduct of the trial.

Results

With training and fidelity assessment, coaches in the PUSH trial applied SPS to help participants overcome barriers to fluid consumption. In some cases, coaches faced implementation barriers such as variable participant engagement that required tailoring their work with specific participants. The coaches also faced challenges including balancing rapport with problem solving, and role clarity for the coaches.

Conclusions

We adapted SPS to the setting of kidney stone prevention and overcame challenges in implementation, such as variable patient engagement. Tools from the PUSH trial may be useful to apply to other health behavior change settings in nephrology and other areas of clinical care.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03244189.
Perinatal outcomes and growth discordance of triplet pregnancies based on chorionicity: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hu Qing , Zeng Zhaomin , Liu Hongyan , Liao Hua , Xu Tingting , Yu Haiyan
Published: May 2024

Background

The worldwide occurrence of triplet pregnancy is estimated to be 0.093%, with a natural incidence of approximately 1 in 8000. This study aims to analyze the neonatal health status and birth weight discordance (BWD) of triplets based on chorionicity from birth until discharge.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. We reviewed a total of 136 triplet pregnancies at our tertiary hospital between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2021. Maternal and neonatal outcomes, inter-triplet BWD, neonatal morbidity, and mortality were analyzed.

Results

Among all cases, the rates of intrauterine death, neonatal death, and perinatal death were 10.29, 13.07, and 24.26%, respectively. Thirty-seven of the cases resulted in fetal loss, including 13 with fetal anomalies. The maternal complications and neonatal outcomes of the 99 triplet pregnancies without fetal loss were compared across different chorionicities, including a dichorionic (DC) group (41 cases), trichorionic (TC) group (37 cases), and monochorionic (MC) group (21 cases). Neonatal hypoproteinemia (P < 0.001), hyperbilirubinemia (P < 0.019), and anemia (P < 0.003) exhibited significant differences according to chorionicity, as did the distribution of BWD (P < 0.001). More than half of the cases in the DC and TC groups had a BWD < 15%, while those in the MC group had a BWD < 50% (47.6%). TC pregnancy decreased the risk of neonatal anemia (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.084) and need for blood transfusion therapy after birth (AOR = 0.119). In contrast, a BWD > 25% increased the risk of neonatal anemia (AOR = 10.135) and need for blood transfusion after birth (AOR = 7.127). TC pregnancy, MCDA or MCTA, and BWD > 25% increased neonatal hypoproteinemia, with AORs of 4.629, 5.123, and 5.343, respectively.

Conclusions

The BWD differed significantly according to chorionicity. Additionally, TC pregnancies reduced the risk of neonatal anemia and need for blood transfusion, but increased the risk of neonatal hypoproteinemia. In contrast, the BWD between the largest and smallest triplets increased the risk of neonatal anemia and the need for blood transfusion. TC pregnancy, MCDA or MCTA, and BWD > 25% increased the risks of neonatal hypoproteinemia. However, due to the limited number of triplet pregnancies, further exploration of the underlying mechanism is warranted.
IgE to wheat, prick test, and Patch test among children with celiac disease
Authors: Khalighi Marjaneh , Javaherizadeh Hazhir , Hakimzadeh Mehran , Ahmadi Mitra , Torabizadeh Mehdi , Fayezi Abbas
Published: May 2024

Introduction and aim

Celiac disease is one of the most common autoimmune disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between celiac disease and wheat sensitization.

Subjects and methods

In the current study, children aged < 18 years with confirmed celiac disease were included. Data were analyzed using SPSS.

Results

Gastrointestinal problems were the most common indication for evaluation in terms of celiac disease. Prick and patch tests were positive in 43.4% and 34% respectively.

Conclusion

Prick test and patch test for wheat sensitization were positive in about 30–45% of the children for celiac disease.
The discrepancy of antemortem clinical diagnosis and postmortem autopsy diagnosis of lung pathologies in under-five deaths and the reasons for discrepancies: a case series analysis
Authors: Leulseged Haleluya , A. Rees Chris , Alemu Addisu , A. Tippett Barr Beth , Dheresa Merga , Madrid Lola , Scott Anthony , Assefa Nega
Published: May 2024

Background

Diagnostic autopsy is the most reliable approach to definitively ascertain the cause of death and evaluate the accuracy of antemortem clinical diagnoses. Identifying diagnostic discrepancies is vital to understanding common gaps in antemortem clinical diagnoses and modifying antemortem diagnostic approaches to increase the accuracy of clinical diagnosis. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of diagnostic discrepancies between antemortem clinical diagnoses and postmortem autopsies on lung pathologies and to understand the reasons for diagnostic discrepancies among cases included in Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) in Ethiopia.

Methods

A clinical case series study of deaths among children under-five in the CHAMPS study at three sites in Ethiopia between October 2019 and April 2022 was conducted. The antemortem clinical diagnoses and postmortem pathological diagnoses of the lung were compared for each case. Two senior physicians assessed the findings for both agreement and disagreement. McNemar’s test was used to assess for statistically significant differences between antemortem and postmortem diagnoses.

Results

Seventy-five cases were included (73.3% male). Over half (54.7%) died between the 1st and 7th day of life. Sepsis (66.7%), pneumonia (6.7%), and meconium aspiration syndrome (5.0%) were the most common immediate causes of death. Half (52%) of cases were correctly diagnosed antemortem. The magnitude of diagnostic discrepancy was 35% (95% CI: 20-47%). The most common contributing factors to diagnostic discrepancy were gaps in knowledge (22/75, 35.5%) and problems in consultation and teamwork (22/75, 35.5%).

Conclusions

Misdiagnoses were common among young children who died with positive lung pathology findings. In-service education initiatives and multidisciplinary collaboration are needed to mitigate high rates of diagnostic discrepancies among young children to potentially prevent future deaths.
Individual and community-level factors associated with repeat induced abortion among women in Ghana: a multivariable complex sample logistic regression analysis of 2017 Ghana maternal health survey
Authors: Yeboah Isaac , Okyere Joshua , Klu Desmond , Agbadi Pascal , Agyekum Martin Wiredu
Published: May 2024

Background

Repeat induced abortion is a serious public health issue that has been linked to adverse maternal health outcomes. However, knowledge about repeat induced abortion and its associated factors among reproductive age women in Ghana is very scarce. The objective of this study is to examine individual and community factors associated with repeat induced abortion in Ghana which would be helpful to design appropriate programmes and policies targeted at improving the sexual and reproductive health of women.

Methods

We used secondary cross-sectional data from the 2017 Ghana Maternal Health Survey. The study included a weighted sample of 4917 women aged 15–49 years with a history of induced abortion. A multivariable complex sample logistic regression analysis was used to investigate individual and community factors associated with repeat induced abortion among women in Ghana. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was used to measure the association of variables.

Results

Of the 4917 reproductive women with a history of abortion, 34.7% have repeat induced abortion. We find that, compared to women who experience single induced abortion, women who experience repeat abortion are age 25–34 years (AOR:2.16;95%CI = 1.66–2.79) or 35–49 years (AOR:2.95;95%CI:2.18–3.99), have Middle/JHS education (AOR:1.69;95%CI = 1.25–12.27), use contraceptive at the time of conception (AOR:1.48: 95%CI = 1.03–2.14), had sexual debut before 18 years (AOR:1.57; 95%CI: 1.33–1.85) and reside in urban areas (AOR:1.29;95%CI = 1.07–1.57). On the other hand, women who reside in Central (AOR:0.68;95%CI: 0.49–0.93), Northern (AOR:0.46;95%CI:0.24–0.88), Upper West (AOR:0.24; 95%CI: 0.12–0.50) and Upper East (AOR:0.49; 95%CI = 0.24–0.99) regions were less likely to have repeat induced abortion.

Conclusion

The study showed that both individual and community level determinants were significantly associated with repeat induced abortion. Based on the findings, it is recommended to promote sexual and reproductive health education and more emphasis should be given to adult, those with early sexual debut, those with Middle/JHS education and those who live in urban centers.