bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflective Transition Practice Model: The New Graduate Registered Nurse
Authors: Cadorette Joyce , McCurry Mary , Danells Chin Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

Reflection is a strategy that may enhance transition into practice for the new graduate registered nurse (NGRN). If introduced in the early stages of practice, reflection can be used as a tool to continuously evaluate and improve practice. A theory synthesis of Meleis’ transition theory and Schon’s reflective practice model was developed to support reflection as a tool for new nurses transitioning into the role of professional nurses. Reflection has the potential to improve the NGRNs’ perception of their role, decrease feelings of disconnectedness, and improve patterns of response.
The Magic of Surprise
Authors: Bunkers Sandra Schmidt
Published: June 2023

This article explores the concept of Surprisology and the humanuniverse living experience of surprise. Story is used to enhance understanding of a humanbecoming perspective of surprise.
The Humanbecoming Concept Inventing Model: Having Courage
Authors: Ajadi Olushola
Published: June 2023

The scholar birthed a unique idea of the universal humanuniverse living experience of having courage using the humanbecoming concept inventing model. Very few studies have explored the phenomenon of courage. This concept inventing emerged with the now-truth, having courage is intentional risking with commitment to the cherished arising with opportunities-restrictions. With the artform, by Andrea Fidler, the scholar articulated an ingenuous proclamation in the language of the humanbecoming paradigm; having courage is powering the valuing of enabling-limiting. This scholarly conceptualization of having courage will advance the unique nursing body of knowledge and is the prelude to the Parsesciencing inquiry on having courage.
King’s Theory of Goal Attainment: Quality of Life for People With Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Hadi Fereshteh , Molavynejad Shahram , Elahi Nasrin , Haybar Habib , Maraghi Elham
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a theory of goal attainment–based care plan on quality of life among patients with myocardial infarction. One hundred two patients were randomly assigned to two groups. The intervention group received a theory of goal attainment–based care plan during their hospital stay and a two-month follow-up assessment after hospital discharge. Quality of life was assessed using the Persian version of the MacNew Heart Disease Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire. Despite no significant difference between the groups with respect to the pretest mean scores of quality of life and its dimensions ( p > .05), the posttest mean scores of quality of life and its dimensions in the intervention group were significantly greater than those of the control group ( p < .001). Moreover, while the mean scores of quality of life and its dimensions significantly increased in the intervention group ( p < .001), they did not significantly change in the control group ( p > .05), except for the mean score of physical functioning ( p = .032).
Emoji as a Social Presence Tool Among Arab Digital Media Users: Do the Demographic Variables of the Sender Play a Role?
Authors: Aljasir Shuaa
Published: June 2023

To contribute to the current knowledge, this research was conducted, perhaps for the first time, among 1354 Arab users of digital media platforms to investigate emoji as a social presence tool and how the variables of the gender, generation, and the sender’s relationship to the receiver affect the usage and interpretation of the appropriateness of these graphical icons. Among the significant results of this study, generation and gender explained a significant amount of the variance in the frequency and motivation index. Interestingly, there was a significant, three-way interaction among senders’ gender, raters’ gender, and salience. The analysis also showed that the generation and relationship of the sender had a statistically significant effect on appropriateness ratings.
Visual Perception Is Highly Flexible and Context Dependent in Young Infants: A Case of Top-Down-Modulated Motion Perception
Authors: Xiao Naiqi G. , Emberson Lauren L.
Published: June 2023

Top-down modulation is an essential cognitive component in human perception. Despite mounting evidence of top-down perceptual modulation in adults, it is largely unknown whether infants can engage in this cognitive function. Here, we examined top-down modulation of motion perception in 6- to 8-month-old infants (recruited in North America) via their smooth-pursuit eye movements. In four experiments, we demonstrated that infants’ perception of motion direction can be flexibly shaped by briefly learned predictive cues when no coherent motion is available. The current findings present a novel insight into infant perception and its development: Infant perceptual systems respond to predictive signals engendered from higher-level learning systems, leading to a flexible and context-dependent modulation of perception. This work also suggests that the infant brain is sophisticated, interconnected, and active when placed in a context in which it can learn and predict.
The possible cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessment of indaziflam on HepG2 cells
Authors: Könen Adıgüzel Serpil
Published: June 2023

The use of pesticides in farmland has increased considerably to protect crops against pests, weeds, and diseases. However, pesticides and/or their residues in ecosystems may affect non-target organisms. Indaziflam is a widely used herbicide in agricultural areas in the southern region of Turkey. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of indaziflam on HepG2 cells using comet assay, micronucleus assay, and xCELLigence. The HepG2 cells were treated with various concentrations of indaziflam for different duration of time based on xCELLigence results. Accordingly, the cells were incubated with indaziflam at final concentrations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 40, and 80 μg/mL for 96 h for cytotoxicity assay. To assess genotoxicity, cells were treated with indaziflam at final concentrations of 10, 40, and 100 μg/mL for 4 and 24 h. Ethanol was used as a solvent for indaziflam. Hydrogen peroxide (40 μM) was used as a positive control. Studies have revealed that indaziflam did not show a statistically cytotoxic effect at the tested doses. Nevertheless, genotoxicity studies showed that indaziflam induced both DNA strand breaks and micronucleus numbers depending on the exposure time and dose.
Predictors and consequences of moral distress in home-care nursing: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Petersen Julia , Melzer Marlen
Published: June 2023

Background

Nurses frequently face situations in their daily practice that are ethically difficult to handle and can lead to moral distress.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the phenomenon of moral distress and describe its work-related predictors and individual consequences for home-care nurses in Germany.

Research design

A cross-sectional design was employed. The moral distress scale and the COPSOQ III-questionnaire were used within the framework of an online survey conducted among home-care nurses in Germany. Frequency analyses, multiple linear and logistic regressions, and Rasch analyses were performed.

Participants and research context

The invitation to participate was sent to every German home-care service ( n = 16,608).

Ethical considerations

The study was approved by the Data Protection Office and Ethics Committee of the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Results

A total of 976 home-care nurses participated in this study. Job characteristics, such as high emotional demands, frequent work-life-conflicts, low influence at work, and low social support, were associated with higher disturbance caused by moral distress in home-care nurses. Organizational characteristics of home-care services, such as time margin with patients, predicted moral distress. High disturbance levels due to moral distress predicted higher burnout, worse state of health, and the intention to leave the job and the profession, but did not predict sickness absence.

Conclusions

To prevent home-care nurses from experiencing severe consequences of moral distress, adequate interventions should be developed. Home-care services ought to consider family friendly shifts, provide social support, such as opportunities for exchange within the team, and facilitate coping with emotional demands. Sufficient time for patient care must be scheduled and short-term takeover of unknown tours should be prevented. There is a need to develop and evaluate additional interventions aimed at reducing moral distress, specifically in the home-care nursing sector.
Shaping Investment Decisions Through Financial Literacy: Do Herding and Overconfidence Bias Mediate the Relationship?
Authors: Jain Jinesh , Walia Nidhi , Kaur Manpreet , Sood Kirti , Kaur Dilraj
Published: June 2023

The present study aims to answer the question of whether herding and overconfidence bias serially mediate the relationship between financial literacy with equity investors’ decision-making in the Indian stock market. A survey method was deployed to collect primary data from 436 individual equity investors in the north Indian region. PLS-SEM has been used to examine the serial mediation-based model proposed for the study. Financial literacy was found to have a considerable favourable influence on individual investors’ decision-making. The relationship between financial literacy and investors’ decision-making was found to be serially mediated by herding and overconfidence bias. The study proposes that investors should attend financial market courses, training programs, conferences and seminars to improve their financial literacy and understanding, allowing them to overcome behavioural biases, and will improve their decision-making.
Private Equity Firm Performance: An Empirical Evidence From India Using Benchmark Index
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Firoz Mohammad
Published: June 2023

The present study attempted to examine the comparative return performance of private and non-private equity firms in India. For this purpose, we have used deal-level data retrieved from venture intelligence for the period ranging from 2009 to 2019. To measure the return of private equity, we applied Return multiple, internal rate of return (IRR) and extended internal rate of return (XIRR). We have used the Nifty 50 benchmark index as a proxy for investigating the return generated by public market returns. Study findings revealed that private equity firms outperformed the benchmark Index return and open-up routes for global and domestic investors for further investment. We identified that most private equity deals exited via the M&A route; some also followed the IPO route to exit privately held firms. Results differ from prior studies advocating IPO as the prime mechanism private equity managers use for exiting. Further, returns measured under both routes outperformed the public market index Nifty 50. The study found that 84% (277 Deals) of deals provided a positive cash multiple in the last decade and outperformed the benchmark index. These findings are helpful for private equity firms and fund managers to make investment decisions in the Indian private equity market.
Network Pharmacology and Experimental Analyses on Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi) Effects on Endotoxin-induced Uveitis Model in Rats
Authors: Lu Jing , Wu Yujie , Yang Yijing , Zhou Jing , Huang Bo , Xie Chengfeng , Peng Qinghua , Zhang Xiaohuan
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This study is aimed at identifying critical therapeutic targets of Astragalus membranaceus (Huangqi (HQ)) and investigating the effects and mechanisms of HQ treating uveitis. The potential drug targets of HQ and main active ingredients were obtained from the Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) systems pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP, http://tcmspnw.com ).

Materials and Methods

Cytoscape software was used to identify the disease targets of uveitis. Drug targets and disease targets were compared, and intersected hubs were applied for the active ingredient-target network and protein-protein-interaction (PPI) network construction. Signaling pathway enrichment annotation was performed to identify possible signaling involved in uveitis treatment. An endotoxin-induced uveitis (EIU) model was established, and the therapeutic effects of total flavonoids of Astragalus (TFA) on uveitis were investigated by examining the improvement of eye symptoms, histopathological alterations, and the levels of cytokines.

Results

Based on network pharmacological analysis, HQ could modulate the initiation and progression of uveitis by reducing the production of cytokines and regulating cell apoptosis via the NOD-like receptor (NLR), apoptosis, and toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathways. Based on animal experiments, high-dose TFA could reduce rat’s iris congestion, reduce anterior chamber exudation and pus, restore pupil size, and decrease the release of inflammatory factors IFN-γ and IL-10. Network pharmacological and experimental analyses revealed that TFA regulates the release of inflammatory factors through the NLR and TLR signaling pathways, thus regulating the immune system of EIU rats and ultimately relieving inflammation responses in uveitis rats.
The Role of Humor in Work Group Dynamics in Times of Crisis
Authors: Boydstun Amber E. , Wallach Hanna , Young Dannagal G. , Allen Joseph A.
Published: June 2023

Humor is a key indicator of the health of work groups, including during times of crisis. Moreover, studies of newly formed groups show that the type of humor used can change as members of a group get to know one another and form bonds. Yet in the context of a relatively established work group, can the nature of the group’s humor evolve in response to a crisis? We address this question in the context of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), examining whether the FOMC was able to pivot its use of humor following the 2007 financial crash. As hypothesized, we find a post-crash increase in “affiliative” humor in general, and “playful banter” specifically, indicating effective group dynamics among members (which bodes well for the global economy). The FOMC thus offers evidence that established work groups can use humor as a dynamic mechanism for adapting to new circumstances.
The Role of the School Nurse in Suicide Prevention: Implications for Equitable Care of Vulnerable Youth
Authors: Tyndall Deborah E. , Pestaner Mitzi , Lewis Travis
Published: June 2023

The rising rate of youth suicide in rural Eastern North Carolina reflects the national trend. Although school nurses have been regarded as the gateway professional for mental health services, their role in suicide prevention is not well understood. The purpose of this study was to explore school nursing practice regarding suicide prevention of school-aged children in one vulnerable region of the United States. Focus groups and surveys were collected from 35 school nurses in six school districts. Findings indicate that suicide protocols inclusive of the school nurse can facilitate their role in suicide prevention. Variation of school nursing practice existed between and within districts. These variations in school nursing practice highlight the need for school districts within the state and across the country to examine their policies and practices for mental health equity. Barriers such as higher caseloads, role disconnect, and lack of specialized training contributed to variations in practice.
Obstetric Violence Questionnaire: Adaptation of a Turkish Self-Report Tool
Authors: Kömürcü Akik Burcu
Published: June 2023

Obstetric violence has started to attract attention as a form of violence against women. This study aimed to determine and analyze the psychometric properties of a Turkish version of the Obstetric Violence Questionnaire (OVQ).  Four hundred sixty-eight women from 19 to 59 years of age ( M  =  35.28, SD  =  7.22) participated. The confirmatory factor analysis confirmed a multifactorial structure of two factors. The Cronbach's α internal consistency coefficients were .72, .70, and .73 obtained for the total scale, abuse and violence, and non-consented care subscale, respectively. The OVQ consisted of 11 items, proving to be a reliable and brief measure.
Fee-Oriented Strategies, Ownership Structure and Analyst Forecast Accuracy in the Hospitality Industry
Authors: Poretti Cedric , Aoun Adam , Singal Manisha
Published: June 2023

This study analyzed the impact of the interplay between fee-oriented strategies and ownership structure on analyst forecast accuracy using a sample of international publicly-listed hospitality firms. Based on 29,019 earnings forecasts made by financial analysts, using Ordinary Least Squares regression (OLS), entropy balancing, and Heckman two-stage models, we documented that, on average, forecasts were more accurate for firms pursuing a fee-oriented strategy. Moreover, the positive effect of fee-oriented strategies on forecast accuracy was stronger for companies with concentrated ownership. We explain our results by the fact that fee-oriented firms enjoyed more stable cash flows and revenue, reducing information asymmetries between a firm’s outsiders and insiders, thus enabling analysts to make more accurate forecasts. This effect was more important for firms with concentrated ownership in particular, as they generally disclosed less information to the capital markets. Our findings should be of great interest to hospitality firms’ owners, managers, and boards of directors.
The viability of a proposed psychoeducational neurodiversity approach in children services: The PANDA (the Portsmouth alliance’s neuro-diversity approach)
Authors: Dunn Zach D , Gowda Asha , Horsfall Turner Isobel C
Published: June 2023

People with Neurodevelopmental (ND) conditions are often unfairly stereotyped by society, without fully appreciating their strengths. As a result, their advantageous behaviours may be overlooked or ignored. Despite wide psychoeducation on ND in society there is a push from the scientific and ND community to move from a binary diagnostic system to an approach that encompasses the spectrum experienced by individuals. In view of this, we have developed the Portsmouth Alliance Neuro-Diversity Approach (PANDA), a coproduced method which helps facilitate understanding, communication and early support for individuals who may be Neuro-Diverse. 51 young people, their parents and attached professionals participated in the approach’s feasibility to improve wellbeing and symptom management measured by quantitative and qualitative means. Results showed a significant improvement in the child’s wellbeing, but not symptom management. Overall, this indicates the PANDA could facilitate a more holistic approach for referrals, information gathering, psychoeducation and cross-system relationship building to be used in conjunction with a traditional pathway. Though, this study is limited in scope, its main purpose is to inform future development of the approach. Additionally, more research investigating the specific narrative, and separate structure of the PANDA would be required to highlight the strengths and limitations of implementation.
Guidelines for implementing advanced thermal analysis methods in building design
Authors: Yamamoto Tatsuhiro , Taniguchi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2023

Although the thermal environment of buildings with thermally complex building envelopes can be predicted, comprehensive guidelines are not available for designers to implement the thermal-environment analysis. Therefore, this study examines the application scope of advanced thermal-analysis methods from the designers’ perspective. The results of the simple model were consistent with the experimental values, with an error of approximately 0.5°C. The analytically determined convective heat-transfer-coefficient values were within 0.3–0.5°W・m2K, and the difference in the predicted values between the results of the simplified and detailed models was minor. The convective heat transfer coefficient calculated using the reference temperature defined at the dimensionless distance y+ was more accurate than that was obtained using the general energy simulation incorporating the boundary-layer theory. Although the simplified advection rate had a maximum error of approximately 150 m3/h, it was considered acceptable. The differences amongst the zones were less than 0.59°C, which is considered minor. The results obtained by using summer advection were sufficiently accurate. Furthermore, the dew-point temperature was used to evaluate the risk of dew condensation. Specifically, the results indicated that the introduction of outside air increased the risk of condensation on the floor.
A Systematic Review of Public Stigmatization Toward Women Victims of Intimate Partner Violence in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Murvartian Lara , Matías-García Jose Antonio , Saavedra-Macías Francisco Javier , Crowe Allison
Published: June 2023

Public stigmatization of women victims of intimate partner violence (IPV) has begun to be studied because of its negative impact on recovery from violence. This systematic review aimed to analyze such stigmatization in low- and middle-income countries (LAMIC) by identifying social norms and perceptions linked to public stigmatizing responses, such responses, negative consequences of those responses on victims, and other factors associated with public stigma. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, five databases were searched using “stigma” and multiple synonyms of IPV as keywords. Selected articles were empirical, written in English, published in peer-reviewed journals, and reported findings on public stigma toward women victims of IPV that had occurred in LAMIC. Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Patriarchal gender roles, normalization of IPV and the consideration of violence as a private matter were the most prevalent social norms among the studies. These led to blaming, isolating, and discriminating against the victim, making her feel ashamed, considering her less valuable than before suffering IPV, and dismissing or denying the abuse. Many negative consequences were identified. Anticipated public stigma, associated with not disclosing the abuse and not seeking help, was the most popular. Public stigmatization was stronger when other public stigmas intersected and in the case of disadvantaged social circumstances. Consequences were diminished by protective factors such as informal support and gender-based violence support services. This review provides a global vision for future research in each specific sociocultural context and is a first step in the design of anti-stigma programs in LAMIC.
Using Interventions to Increase Test Access: An Alternative to Accommodations?
Authors: Lovett Benjamin J. , Fienup Daniel M.
Published: June 2023

Students with disabilities are often given accommodations in testing situations (e.g., extended testing time). However, for many students with high-incidence disabilities, interventions can reduce the need for these accommodations or serve as a helpful supplement to accommodations. Applied behavior analysis provides a framework for understanding how accommodations alter testing settings, as well as for developing related interventions. We review research on evidence-based interventions that can reduce the need for five common testing accommodations: extended testing time, separate room administration, test breaks, read-aloud, and dictated response. We conclude with suggestions for changes to school-based practice as well as remaining research needs.
Neonatal exposure to a neuroactive steroid alters low-frequency oscillations in the subiculum
Authors: Fine-Raquet Brier , Manzella Francesca M , Joksimovic Srdjan M , Dietz Robert M , Orfila James E , Sampath Dayalan , Tesic Vesna , Atluri Navya , Covey Douglas F , Raol Yogendra H , Jevtovic-Todorovic Vesna , Herson Paco S , Todorovic Slobodan M
Published: June 2023

Preclinical studies have established that neonatal exposure to contemporary sedative/hypnotic drugs causes neurotoxicity in the developing rodent and primate brains. Our group recently reported that novel neuroactive steroid (3β,5β,17β)-3-hydroxyandrostane-17-carbonitrile (3β-OH) induced effective hypnosis in both neonatal and adult rodents but did not cause significant neurotoxicity in vulnerable brain regions such as subiculum, an output region of hippocampal formation particularly sensitive to commonly used sedatives/hypnotics. Despite significant emphasis on patho-morphological changes, little is known about long-term effects on subicular neurophysiology after neonatal exposure to neuroactive steroids. Hence, we explored the lasting effects of neonatal exposure to 3β-OH on sleep macrostructure as well as subicular neuronal oscillations in vivo and synaptic plasticity ex vivo in adolescent rats. At postnatal day 7, we exposed rat pups to either 10 mg/kg of 3β-OH over a period of 12 h or to volume-matched cyclodextrin vehicle. At weaning age, a cohort of rats was implanted with a cortical electroencephalogram (EEG) and subicular depth electrodes. At postnatal day 30–33, we performed in vivo assessment of sleep macrostructure (divided into wake, non-rapid eye movement, and rapid eye movement sleep) and power spectra in cortex and subiculum. In a second cohort of 3β-OH exposed animals, we conducted ex vivo studies of long-term potentiation (LTP) in adolescent rats. Overall, we found that neonatal exposure to 3β-OH decreased subicular delta and sigma oscillations during non-rapid eye movement sleep without altering sleep macrostructure. Furthermore, we observed no significant changes in subicular synaptic plasticity. Interestingly, our previous study found that neonatal exposure to ketamine increased subicular gamma oscillations during non-rapid eye movement sleep and profoundly suppressed subicular LTP in adolescent rats. Together these results suggest that exposure to different sedative/hypnotic agents during a critical period of brain development may induce distinct functional changes in subiculum circuitry that may persist into adolescent age.
Pasquale Ciricillo (1907-1978): From “Melephone Wonder” to “Music Man” Schoolteacher
Authors: Kruse Nathan B.
Published: June 2023

Pasquale “Pat” Ciricillo (1907-1978) was a twentieth-century musician-teacher who incorporated multiple musical approaches in his work. Born to an Italian family in Cleveland, Ohio, Ciricillo’s affinity for wide-ranging musicianship afforded him a storied career as a professional trumpet player in New York City. His success as a jazz, popular, and classical musician served as a catalyst for the latter part of his career, when he became a school music teacher who created innovative school curricula based on his extensive musical background. This biographical investigation features three distinct periods in Ciricillo’s career: early life in Cleveland, Ohio (1907-1929); life as a professional performer in New York City (1929-1956); and life as a school music teacher in The Bronx and the Rockland County (NY) Schools (1956-1976). Of special interest are the intersections between Ciricillo’s performer and teacher identities and the pedagogical practices that he enacted in the music classroom. Ciricillo’s life and career hold implications for current and future teaching practices in school music programs.
The Use of Viatorr Stent at the Thoracic Outlet to Maintain Hemodialysis Access Function
Authors: Ghasemi-Rad Mohammad , Do Lauren , Collard Michael , Cui Jai , Irani Zubin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Venous steno-occlusive disease at the thoracic outlet affects up to 30% of the hemodialysis population [1] causing arm swelling and hemodialysis access dysfunction. Balloon angioplasty in this region can be of limited utility given the rigid compressive effect of surrounding musculoskeletal (MSK) structures. Outcomes of using the Viatorr endoprosthesis (Gore Viatorr TIPS Endoprosthesis, Gore, Flagstaff AR, USA, Viatorr ®) within this region to salvage the HD access in patients who presented with dialysis access dysfunction is presented.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of our tertiary and quaternary care hospital system. Hemodialysis patients were included in the study if they were using an upper extremity arteriovenous fistula or graft for access, had a Viatorr stent placed in the central (subclavian and/or brachiocephalic) veins, and had follow up.

Results

A total of nine patients were identified to meet the inclusion criteria. Four interventions were due to refractory lesions of the subclavian or brachiocephalic veins, and the other five interventions were for hemodynamically significant lesions refractory to angioplasty alone, all resulting in access dysfunction. Primary patency ranged from 36-442 days (geometric mean 156.6 days, range 19-442 days). No stent fracture was identified on imaging at any point during follow-up of these patients out to a maximum of 2912 days (Average 837 days).

Conclusions

The Viatorr stent graft used in the HD population for clinically significant lesions at the thoracic outlet (TO) showed no structural failures (fractures) in this cohort.
Health Research with Data in a Time of Privacy: Which Information do Patients Want?
Authors: Beusink Miriam , Koetsveld Folkert , van Scheijen Sonja , Janssen Tomas , Buiter Maarten , Schmidt Marjanka K , Rebers Susanne
Published: June 2023

When hospitals ask broad consent for the secondary use of patient data for scientific research, it is unknown for which studies the data will be used. We investigated what patients at a cancer hospital consider to be an adequate level and most suitable method of information provision using questionnaires (n = 71) and interviews (n = 24). A part of the respondents indicated that they would feel sufficiently informed by either being notified about potential further use, or by receiving a general brochure before being asked for consent. Others stated that additional information would be interesting and appreciated. Yet, when discussing required resources needed to provide additional information, interviewees lowered the bar of what they considered minimally required, voicing the importance of spending resources on research.
A novel method for preparing clot analogs under dynamic vortical flow for testing mechanical thrombectomy devices
Authors: Liu Ronghui , Lv Bin , Meng Haoye , Zhang Luo , Ma Weijing , He Hongping , Wei Ren , Ma Na , Fan Yubo , Wang Jun , Ren Xuewen , Wang Weidong
Published: June 2023

Background

Clot analogs are essential in animal and in vitro experiments on mechanical thrombectomy devices for treating acute ischemic stroke. Clot analogs should be capable of reproducing a variety of arterial clots observed in clinical practice in terms of histological composition and mechanical properties.

Methods

Bovine blood with added thrombin was stirred in a beaker so that clots could be formed under the condition of dynamic vortical flow. Static clots were also prepared without stirring, and the properties of the static clots and dynamic clots were compared. Histological and scanning electron microscopy experiments were performed. Compression and relaxation tests were performed to evaluate the mechanical properties of the two types of clots. Thromboembolism and thrombectomy tests were conducted in an in vitro circulation model.

Results

Compared to the static clots, the dynamic clots prepared under vortical flow displayed a higher fibrin content, and their fibrin network was denser and sturdier than that of the static clots. The stiffness of the dynamic clots was significantly higher than that of the static clots. The stress of both types of clots could decay quickly under large sustained strain. The static clots could break at the bifurcation in the vascular model, while the dynamic clots could be firmly stuck in the vascular model.

Conclusions

Dynamic clots generated in dynamic vortical flow differ significantly from static clots in terms of their composition and mechanical properties, which may be beneficial information for preclinical research on mechanical thrombectomy devices.
The relationship between self-care, spiritual well-being and coping strategies in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Mirzazadeh-Qashqaei Firouzeh , Zarea Kourosh , Rashidi Homeira , Haghighizadeh Mohammad Hosein
Published: June 2023

Background:

Diabetes is one of the most common diseases in the world. The most important underlying cause of death in diabetic patients is the lack of self-care and management. However, there is little known about the influence of coping strategies and spiritual well-being (SWB) on self-care in diabetic patients.

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between self-care activities with coping strategies and spiritual well-being (SWB) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods:

In this descriptive-analytical study, we selected 236 patients with T2DM referred to the diabetes hospital clinics in the southwest of Iran. Inclusion criteria were patients diagnosed with T2DM, with the age group ranging 20–80 years, literate, not suffering from severe and debilitating complications of diabetes and lacking acute psychological illness. Exclusion criteria included refusing to complete questionnaires and cognitive or emotional impairment. Instruments include the demographic questionnaire, Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities, Lazarus and Folkman’s Coping Strategies Questionnaire and the Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS; developed by Paloutzian and Ellison). To examine the relationship between variables, the Pearson correlation and multiple stepwise regression analysis were used.

Results:

The findings of this study on 236 patients with T2DM (53.25 ± 10.91) including 76 (32.2%) males and 160 (67.8%) females showed the majority of participants were female, the age group was between 41 and 60 years (68.22%), had a Diploma (63.98%), were insured (63.55%) and had a moderate economic situation (55.93%). There was a direct and significant correlation between self-care activities and coping strategies ( r = 0.163, p < 0.05), and only a problem-focused coping strategy was considered as a predictor variable of self-care ( p < 0.01). There was a direct and significant correlation between self-care and SWB ( r = 0.385, p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

The results of this study showed that there is a significant relationship between self-care and the problem-focused dimension of coping strategies and SWB in patients with T2DM.
Graphic Paper: The impact of digital communication on adolescent to adult mental health service transitions
Authors: Brenchley Alex
Published: June 2023

Background:

Inaccessible services and poor communication are barriers to successful transitions between adolescent and adult mental health services, for which digital communications (DC) offer a possible solution.

Aims:

To investigate the role of DC, including smartphone apps, email and text, given the known barriers and facilitators of mental health service transitions reported in the literature.

Methods:

Use of Neale’s (2016) iterative categorisation technique to undertake a secondary analysis of qualitative data collected for the Long-term conditions Young people Networked Communication (LYNC) study.

Results:

DC were used successfully by young people and staff in ways that ameliorated known barriers to service transitions. They engendered responsibility in young people, promoted service access and contributed to client safety, particularly in times of crisis. DC risks included over-familiarity between young people and staff, and the possibility that messages could go unread.

Conclusions:

DC have the potential to facilitate trust and familiarity during and after transition to adult mental health services. They can strengthen young people’s perceptions of adult services as supportive, empowering and available. DC can be used for frequent ‘check-ins’ and remote digital support for social and personal problems. They provide an additional safety net for at-risk individuals, but require careful boundary setting.
Power transformer oil temperature prediction based on empirical mode decomposition-bidirectional long short-term memory
Authors: Chen Haomin , Meng Lingwen , Xi Yu , Xu Changbao , Wang Yu , Xin Mingyong , Chen Guangqin , Chen Yumin
Published: June 2023

Power transformers are crucial components of power transmission and transformation networks. Their operational status has a direct impact on the reliability of power supply systems. As such, the security and stability of power systems depend heavily on the state of transformers within them. The oil temperature of a transformer is a critical indicator of its working condition. Accurately and rapidly predicting transformer oil temperature is therefore of significant practical importance for ensuring the safe and effective operation of power systems. To address this prediction problem, this article proposes a transformer oil temperature prediction method based on empirical mode decomposition-bidirectional long short-term memory (EMD-BiLSTM). The time series of oil temperature is first cleaned before being processed. Next, the EMD algorithm is used to decompose the time series into relatively stable components. The BiLSTM neural network is then utilized to predict the complex nonlinear long-term series. The proposed method is evaluated using the open data set Electricity Transformer Temperature (ETT)-small. Experimental results show that the EMD-BiLSTM model outperforms traditional LSTM, BiLSTM, EMD-BP, and Wavelet Transform-Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory (WT-BiLSTM) methods, demonstrating that it is an effective and accurate prediction method for transformer oil temperature.
Corrective osteotomy of the distal radius with palmar locking plate osteosynthesis without bone grafting and without cortical contact
Authors: Fuchs Johannes , Spühler Dominik Lukas , Luz Stephanie , Zdravkovic Vilijam , Hainich Jörg
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to assess bone healing and secondary fracture displacement after corrective osteotomy of the distal radius without any cortical contact using palmar locking plates without bone grafting. Between 2009 and 2021, 11 palmar corrective osteotomies of extra-articular malunited distal radius fractures and palmar plate fixations without the use of bone grafts and without cortical contact, were assessed. All patients showed complete osseous restoration and significant improvement in all radiographic parameters. Except for one patient, there were no secondary dislocations or loss of reduction in the postoperative follow-up. Bone grafts may not be mandatory for bone healing and prevention of secondary fracture displacement after palmar corrective osteotomy without cortical contact and fixation with palmar locking plate.

Level of evidence: IV
Under pressure: irrigation practice patterns during flexible ureteroscopy
Authors: Salka Bassel , Bahaee Jamsheed , Plott Jeff , Ghani Khurshid R.
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Irrigation parameters during flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) may impact patient outcomes, yet there are limited data on current practice patterns of irrigation methods and parameter selection. We assessed the common irrigation methods, pressure settings, and situations that present the most problems with irrigation among worldwide endourologists.

Methods:

A questionnaire on fURS practice patterns was sent to Endourology Society members in January 2021. Responses were collected through QualtricsXM over a 1-month period. The study was reported according to the Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys (CHERRIES). Surgeons were from North America (the United States and Canada), Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.

Results:

Questionnaires were answered by 208 surgeons (response rate 14%). North American surgeons accounted for 36% of respondents; 29% Europe, 18% Asia, and 14% Latin America. In North America, the most common irrigation method was the pressurized saline bag using a manual inflatable cuff (55%). Saline bag (gravity) with a bulb or syringe injection system was the most common method in Europe (45%). Automated systems were the most common method in Asia (30%). For pressures used during fURS, the majority of respondents used 75–150 mmHg. The clinical scenario which had the greatest issue with adequate irrigation was during biopsy of urothelial tumor.

Conclusion:

There is variation in irrigation practices and parameter selection during fURS. North American surgeons primarily used a pressurized saline bag, in contrast to European surgeons who preferred a gravity bag with a bulb/syringe system. Overall, automated irrigation systems were not commonly used.
Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO): The case of MakerDAO
Authors: Ellinger Eleunthia Wong , Mini Tobias , Gregory Robert Wayne , Dietz Alexander
Published: June 2023

The global adoption and diffusion of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technologies has given rise to a new form of organizing referred to as decentralized autonomous organizations (DAO). Many DAOs sit at the intersection between decentralized blockchain technologies and finance, so-called decentralized finance (DeFi). This teaching case focuses on one of the most prominent and established DeFi DAOs, MakerDAO, a community-driven initiative that leverages blockchain technology to create a stablecoin pegged to the US Dollar as a basis for decentralized financial services such as lending and yield generation. The case describes the delicate balancing act between centralization and decentralization in the evolution of MakerDAO. It can be used in graduate business programs to achieve the following learning objectives: (1) Understand the concept of decentralized autonomous organization (DAO) as a new form of organizing in which communities leverage blockchain technologies and community-based principles to work jointly on a common goal, (2) Be able to assess the benefits and risks of novel decentralized finance (DeFi) models, such as MakerDAO, which offer alternative financial tools and resources that are not controlled by traditional financial institutions, (3) Evaluate the potential and pathway for disruptive innovation in the era of blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and Web3, where decentralized applications (dapps) on blockchain networks enable decentralized and trustless transactions and interactions.
Comparison of the use of blood pressure telemonitoring versus standard medical care in the achievement of short-term therapeutic goals in blood pressure in patients with uncontrolled hypertension: An open-label clinical trial
Authors: Ramos-Zavala MG , Grover-Páez F , Cardona-Muñoz EG , Cardona-Müller D , Alanis-Sánchez AG , Pascoe-González S , Roman-Rojas D , Ramos-Becerra CG , Alvarez-López H ,   the GREHTA/ANCAM network, Chávez-Mendoza A , De la Peña-Topete GJ , Enciso-Muñóz JM , Estrada-Suárez A , Galvan-Oseguera H , Guerra-López A , Gutiérrez-Fajardo P , Lupercio-Mora K , Nikos-Christo SN , Palomo-Piñón S , Ruíz-Gastelum E , Velasco-Sánchez RG
Published: June 2023

Background

In Mexico less than half of the treated hypertensive patients reach blood pressure (BP) targets. Most hypertensive individuals rely on the standard medical care (SMC) to achieve the BP control goals; however, the efficacy of BP telemonitoring (BPT) to achieve BP targets has been poorly studied.

Aim

To compare the efficacy of BPT versus SMC to achieve BP goals in patients with uncontrolled hypertension.

Methods

A two-arm, open-label clinical trial was conducted in patients ≥18 years with uncontrolled hypertension. The participants were randomized to 2 arms (BPT vs SMC) and followed for 12 weeks. For the statistical analysis, the chi-squared test and covariance were used.

Results

One hundred and seventy-eight participants were included, BPT (n = 94) and SMC (n = 84), after 12 weeks of follow up, we observed a baseline-adjusted reduction in systolic BP with both BPT (−13.5 [1.3] mmHg) and the SMC (−5.9 [1.4] mmHg; p < 0.001) but a greater decrease with BPT (p < 0.001). Likewise, we found a baseline-adjusted reduction of diastolic BP with BPT (−6.9 [0.9] mmHg) and SMC (−2.7 [0.9] mmHg) (p = 0.007) with a more significant percentage change from baseline with BPT (−6.8% [1.0] vs 2.5% [1.1]; p = 0.007). In the BPT arm, a larger proportion of patients achieved the BP target versus SMC (30.5% vs 12.8%; p = 0.005).

Conclusion

BPT showed a greater proportion of patients achieving office BP control goals (<140/90 mmHg), compared to standard medical care.
Predicting hospitalization from real-world measures in patients with chronic kidney disease: A proof-of-principle study
Authors: Lyden Kate , Abraham Nikita , Boucher Robert , Wei Guo , Gonce Victoria , Carle Judy , Hartsell Sydney E. , Christensen Jesse , Beddhu Srinivasan
Published: June 2023

Objective

To investigate if in-clinic measures of physical function and real-world measures of physical behavior and mobility effort are associated with one another and to determine if they predict future hospitalization in participants with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

In this secondary analysis, novel real-world measures of physical behavior and mobility effort, including the best 6-minute step count (B6SC), were derived from passively collected data from a thigh worn actigraphy sensor and compared to traditional in-clinic measures of physical function (e.g. 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Hospitalization status during 2 years of follow-up was determined from electronic health records. Correlation analyses were used to compare measures and Cox Regression analysis was used to compare measures with hospitalization.

Results

One hundred and six participants were studied (69  ±  13 years, 43% women). Mean  ±  SD baseline measures for 6MWT was 386  ±  66 m and B6SC was 524  ±  125 steps. Forty-four hospitalization events over 224 years of total follow-up occurred. Good separation was achieved for tertiles of 6MWT, B6SC and steps/day for hospitalization events. This pattern persisted in models adjusted for demographics (6MWT: HR  =  0.63 95% CI 0.43–0.93, B6SC: HR  =  0.75, 95% CI 0.56–1.02 and steps/day: HR  =  0.75, 95% CI 0.50–1.13) and further adjusted for morbidities (6MWT: HR  =  0.54, 95% CI 0.35–0.84, B6SC: HR  =  0.70, 95% CI 0.49–1.00 and steps/day: HR  =  0.69, 95% CI 0.43–1.09).

Conclusion

Digital health technologies can be deployed remotely, passively, and continuously to collect real-world measures of physical behavior and mobility effort that differentiate risk of hospitalization in patients with CKD.
Multimodal Literacy in a New Era of Educational Technology: Comparing Points of View in Animations of Children's and Adult Literature
Authors: Unsworth Len
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The paper shows the interpretive impact of different constructions of the point of view available to the reader/viewer in book and animated movie versions of a children's picture book, a novel for pre-adolescents/early teenagers, and a graphic novel for adolescents and adults.

Design/Approach/Methods

Excerpts from book and animated movie versions of the same story are compared using multimodal analysis of interpersonal meaning to show how the reader/viewer is positioned in relation to the characters in each version, complemented by analyses of ideational meaning to show the effect of point of view on interpretive possibilities.

Findings

Focusing mainly on multimodal construction of point of view, the analyses show how interpretive possibilities of ostensibly the same story are significantly reconfigured in animated adaptations compared with book versions even when the verbal narrative remains substantially unchanged.

Originality/Value

The study shows that it is crucial to students’ critical appreciation of, and their creative contribution to, their evolving digital literary culture that in this new era of educational technology, attention in literacy and literary education focuses on developing understandings of digital multimodal narrative art, and that animated movie adaptations are not presented pedagogically as isomorphic with, or simply adjunct to, corresponding book versions.