bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward a “Freedom Life”: Notes on Transmasculine Placemaking in the “World-Class” City of New Delhi
Authors: Kumar Rushaan
Published: September 2024

The epistemological formations of area studies and critical regionality have been instrumental in situating the politics of gender-sexual variance in the Global South. Recent scholarship in India encourages further rescaling of queer and trans studies to account for the mutual entanglements of sexual and caste modernity, rights-based organizing, and metronormativity. Following this work, this article considers the possibilities offered by emphasizing the micro-locality of the urban neighborhood. A reading of two Delhi-based documentary films, Who Can Speak of Men? (2003) and Yeh Freedom Life (2019), the article troubles the idea of a unitary global and national trans subject. Conceptualizing the urban neighborhood as method and mode of reading transmasculinity compels a rethinking of the dichotomous framings of metropolitan queer as elite and transgender as abject. This article provides a trans microcartography wherein the world- and place-making work of transmasculine people enables a reimagining of masculinity in the neoliberalizing Indian “world-class city”.
Agreement Between Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis and Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry to Estimate Fat Mass in Hispanic Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Castillo Castro Carolina , González Arellanes Rogelio , Camacho Mondragón Christian Giovanni , Farfán Esponda Heriberto Raúl , del Razo Olvera Fabiola Mabel , Aguilar Salinas Carlos A , Martagon Alexandro J
Published: September 2024

Background:

Adipose tissue excess is associated with adverse health outcomes, including type 2 diabetes. Body mass index (BMI) is used to evaluate obesity but is inaccurate as it does not account for muscle mass, bone density, and fat distribution. Accurate measurement of adipose tissue through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and computed axial tomography (CT) is crucial for managing and monitoring adiposity-related diseases. Still, these are not easily accessible in most hospitals in Mexico. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is non-invasive and low-cost but may not be reliable in conditions affecting the body’s hydration status, like diabetes.

Objectives:

To assess fat mass concordance between BIA and DXA in Hispanic-American adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods:

Cross-sectional study of a non-probabilistic sample of subjects over 18 years with type 2 diabetes. We used DXA as the reference method.

Results:

We evaluated the accuracy of FM estimation through BIA and DXA in 309 subjects with type 2 diabetes. Results showed a trend of overestimating the diagnosis of obesity using BIA, especially in individuals with a higher fat mass index (FMI). At the group level, we found BIA accurate; however, at the individual level, it is not. The bias between the 2 methods showed a statistically significant overestimation of body fat by BIA (P ⩽ .01) in both sexes. BIA demonstrated high precision in estimating fat mass. We were able to provide a correction factor of 0.55 kg in men.

Conclusion:

BIA is inaccurate compared to DXA for body composition assessment in patients with diabetes. Inaccurate measurements can result in misclassification. However, BIA is precise for body composition assessment in patients with diabetes, so it is reliable for tracking patient progress over time.
Improving access to inflammatory bowel disease care in Canada: The patient experience
Authors: Lalani Shehzeen , Mathias Holly , Heisler Courtney , Rohatinsky Noelle , Mirza Raza M , Kits Olga , Zelinsky Sandra , Nguyen Geoffrey , Lakatos Peter L , Fowler Sharyle , Rioux Kevin , Jones Jennifer L
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Canada has one of the highest age-adjusted incidence and prevalence rates of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Large patient volumes and limited resources have created challenges concerning the quality of IBD care, but little is known about patients’ experiences. This paper aimed to better understand patient-perceived barriers to IBD care.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative approach was used for this study. Fourteen focus groups (with 63 total participants) were co-facilitated by a researcher and patient research partner across eight Canadian provinces in 2018. Patients diagnosed with IBD (>18 years of age) and their caregivers were purposefully recruited through Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, gastroenterology clinics and communities, and national social media campaigns. Focus group sessions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Most participants self-identified as being white and women. The analysis generated four key themes regarding patient-perceived barriers and gaps in access to IBD care: (1) gatekeepers and their lack of IBD knowledge, (2) expenses and time, (3) lack of holistic care, and (4) care that is not patient-centered. An additional four themes were generated on the topic of patient-perceived areas of health system improvement for IBD care: (1) direct access to care, (2) good care providers, (3) electronic records and passports, and (4) multidisciplinary care or an ‘IBD dream team’.

Conclusions

This research contributes to the limited global knowledge on patients’ experiences accessing IBD care. It is valuable for the development of care plans and policies to target gaps in care. Patients have identified system-level barriers and ideas for improvement, which should be taken into consideration when implementing system redesign and policy change.
Identifying motivational interviewing techniques in Quitline smoking cessation counselling sessions from Queensland, Australia
Authors: Bendotti Hollie , Marshall Henry M , Gartner Coral , Ireland David , Lawler Sheleigh
Published: September 2024

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a common approach for smoking cessation counselling, yet little is known about the use of MI techniques in practice. This qualitative content analysis applied a published classification of content and relational MI techniques to a sample of 30 Quitline transcripts (January-March 2019) from Queensland, Australia. Overall, 36 MI techniques (94.7%) were identified at least once within the total sample. On average, 20 techniques (52.6%) were used in an individual conversation with a small difference observed between initial and follow-up calls. Techniques most frequently applied across conversations were largely relational, while techniques addressing client ambivalence/resistance were less frequently/never applied. Variability in techniques between individual initial and follow-up calls highlights the high degree of personalisation when applying MI to smoking cessation. Further investigations exploring associations of individual techniques and cessation outcomes are warranted. The classification may prove useful for assessments of fidelity for training and monitoring activities.
Signalling through implicature: How India signals in the Indo-Pacific
Authors: Khan Raphaëlle , de Estrada Kate Sullivan
Published: September 2024

When signalling in the Indo-Pacific, India must manage several contradictory imperatives. Signals of resolve that explicitly frame China as a threat or order challenger can raise tensions with this more powerful neighbour. Yet, given India’s strategic resourcing needs, some indication of resolve is necessary in order to project ‘like-mindedness’ with strategic partners – especially the United States – who seek to counter-balance China. Meanwhile, signals of reassurance to the United States and its allies may read as signals of resolve towards China in and of themselves, and/or lead to rhetorical entrapment into alliance-like relations that erode India’s strategic autonomy. Since signalling is both purposeful and socially contingent, these complexities are reflected in India’s discursive signalling strategy. We argue that India often signals via a mode of indirect speech known as implicature. When states implicate, they convey meaning beyond what is explicitly said, while depriving recipients of the rhetorical material to evidence resolve or reassurance. As a signalling strategy, implicature aims to avoid breaches in India’s distinctive social relationships with China and the United States. Signalling through implicature thus manifests as a mode of social hedging, intended to widen the choices of secondary states in the polarised signalling arena of the Indo-Pacific.
Form-finding of tensegrity structures based on graph neural networks
Authors: Shao Shoufei , Guo Maozu , Zhang Ailin , Zhang Yanxia , Li Yang , Li ZhuoXuan
Published: September 2024

Tensegrity structures, characterized by enhanced stiffness, slender struts, and superior buckling resistance, have found wide-ranging applications in fields such as engineering, architecture, art, biology, and robotics, attracting extensive attention from researchers. The form-finding process, a critical step in the design of tensegrity structures, aims to discover the self-equilibrated configuration that satisfies specific design requirements. Traditional form-finding methods based on force density often require repeated steps of eigenvalue decomposition and singular value decomposition, making the process complex. In contrast, this paper introduces a new intelligent form-finding algorithm that uses the force density method and combines the Coati optimization algorithm with Graph Neural Networks. This algorithm avoids the complex steps of eigenvalue and singular value decomposition and integrates the physical knowledge of the structure, making the form-finding process faster and more accurate. In this algorithm, various force densities are initially randomized and input into a trained Graph Neural Networks to predict a fitness function’s value. Through optimizing the constrained fitness function, the algorithm determines the appropriate structural force density and coordinates, thereby completing the form-finding process of the structure. The paper presents seven typical tensegrity structure examples and compares various form-finding methods. The results of numerical examples show that the method proposed in this paper can find solutions that align with the super-stable line more quickly and accurately, demonstrating its potential value in practical applications.
Uptake of telehealth services by people recovering from road trauma in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Ekegren Christina L. , Lee Peter , Gabbe Belinda J. , Hill Keith D. , Keeves Jemma , Kimmel Lara , Kunstler Breanne , Reeder Sandra C. , Brusco Natasha K.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In recent years, injury insurers in Australia have introduced compensation cover for services delivered via telehealth. The aim of this study was to investigate the uptake of telehealth services by people recovering from road trauma in Victoria, Australia, and the characteristics of participants accessing these services.

Methods

All Victorian State Trauma Registry and Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry cases, aged ≥16 years, who sustained transport-related injury from March to August 2020, and were linked with the Transport Accident Commission claims dataset, were included in this registry-based cohort study. The primary outcome was the uptake of services accessed in-person and via telehealth.

Results

Within 12 months of injury, 413 participants accessed 93,035 services, with 1432 of these via telehealth (1.5%). Seventy-five percent of family counselling, 26% of psychology and 7% of medical consultations were accessed via telehealth. For telehealth users, a greater proportion had worked/studied prior to injury, met major trauma criteria, and were discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, compared to non-users. For participants with no telehealth use, a greater proportion were discharged home, and were classified as ‘rapid recovery’ clients.

Conclusions

While telehealth uptake was low during the study period, it was accessed by people with more severe injuries. There was also greater telehealth uptake during some of Victoria's strictest COVID-19 lockdowns. Telehealth may continue to be an appealing option for medical and psychological services into the future, and may assist with return to work following transport injury.
Can We Accept Today That the Museum Continues to Convey Colonial Ideology? An Analysis of Two Fundamental European Instruments to Decolonize Museums
Authors: Duarte Alice
Published: September 2024

The article intends to broaden the debate about colonial collections and their potential repatriation. In some countries, official guidelines on how to deal with colonial collections are long overdue and many museums seem to find that inaction is the perfect strategy. Supported by the latest developments at European level and offering a detailed analysis of the Macron Report and the recommendations of the Deutscher Museumsbund (German Museums Association), this article seeks to provide food for thought that will serve as an in-depth, wide-ranging debate about colonial collections. It makes a comprehensive review of these two European instruments to implement ethical care for colonial collections. Admitting that colonialism has permeated all modern institutions, including the museum, and that many collection items located in Western museums are historically and culturally “sensitive” underscores the moral and ethical obligation that each museum must face, inter alia, as a way to contribute to the deconstruction of a colonial ideology which is perpetuated far beyond the formal end of colonialism. The article aims, furthermore, to demonstrate how awareness and research are the cornerstones of the process that will allow us to rethink colonial collections and document them from a less dated perspective.
Non-invasive follow-up for intracranial aneurysms treated with contour neurovascular system—comparison of digital subtraction angiography (DSA) to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectral computed tomography angiography (CTA) in vitro
Authors: Madjidyar Jawid , Pravdivtseva Mariya , Hensler Johannes , Jansen Olav , Larsen Naomi , Wodarg Fritz
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The contour neurovascular system (CNS) is an intrasaccular flow-disrupting device designed for the treatment of intracranial wide-necked bifurcation aneurysms. Metal artifacts limit magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) accessibility after implantation. The purpose of this in vitro study was to evaluate non-invasive imaging alternatives to digital subtraction angiography (DSA).

Material and methods

Three aneurysms of patients originally treated with CNS were three-dimensional (3D)-printed (one at the basilar tip and two at the middle cerebral artery bifurcation). CNS devices were implanted under fluoroscopic control into the 3D models. Post-implantation two-dimensional-DSA, flat panel computed tomography angiography (CTA), MRI, and spectral CTA were performed.

Results

Time of flight angiography and T1 weighted sequences showed large susceptibility artifacts at the detachment zone of the devices. A thin-sliced T2 weighted sequence in cross-sectional orientation to the aneurysm allowed visualization of the aneurysm dome, but the aneurysm neck and parent vessel could not be assessed. Focused spectral CTA, especially a 40 keV reconstruction with a metal artifact reduction algorithm (orthopedic metal artifact reduction (OMAR)), showed only minor artifacts at the detachment zone. This approach achieved a very similar result to DSA and flat panel computed tomography, enabling the assessment of the device structure, aneurysm perfusion, and parent vessel perfusion.

Discussion and conclusion

For non-invasive follow-up of CNS, focused 40 keV CTA with OMAR seems to be a valuable option. MRI can be valuable for larger aneurysms to assess the aneurysm dome, but was not suitable for evaluating the parent vessels and aneurysm neck after CNS implantation in this study.
Perfusion imaging for delayed cerebral ischemia detection in patients following ruptured aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: Interrater reliability assessment
Authors: Bombardieri Anna Maria , Wouters Anke , Seners Pierre , Zamarud Aroosa , Mlynash Michael , Yuen Nicole , Albers Greg W , Sussman Eric S , Pulli Benjamin , Lansberg Maarten G , Steinberg Gary K , Heit Jeremy J
Published: September 2024

Background

Delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is associated with adverse neurological outcomes. Early and accurate diagnosis of DCI is crucial to prevent cerebral infarction. This study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy and interrater agreement of the visual assessment of neuroimaging perfusion maps to detect DCI in patients suspected of vasospasm after aSAH.

Methods

In this case-control study, cases were adult aSAH patients with DCI who underwent magnetic resonance perfusion or computed tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging in the 24 h prior to digital subtraction angiography for vasospasm diagnosis. Controls were patients with dizziness and no aSAH on CTP imaging. Three independent raters, blinded to patients’ clinical information, other neuroimaging studies, and angiographic results, visually assessed anonymized perfusion color maps to classify patients as either having DCI or not. Tmax delay was classified by symmetry into no delay, unilateral, or bilateral.

Results

Perfusion imaging of 54 patients with aSAH and 119 control patients without aSAH was assessed. Sensitivities for DCI diagnosis ranged from 0.65 to 0.78, and specificities ranged from 0.70 to 0.87, with interrater agreement ranging from 0.60 (moderate) to 0.68 (substantial).

Conclusion

Visual assessment of perfusion color maps demonstrated moderate to substantial accuracy in diagnosing DCI in aSAH patients.
Assessing the effectiveness of menstrual health education in Japan: A non-randomized comparative study of adolescent girls with typical development and those with intellectual disabilities and high support needs
Authors: Tsuda Satoko , Maruyama Yuki , Muroka Chika , Kondo Chie , Takada Satoshi
Published: September 2024

This study elucidates the effectiveness of a menstrual education program with segmented MHM procedure on the MHM skills of girls with intellectual disabilities/HSN compared with those with typical development. Participants in a nonrandomized comparative study included nine adolescent girls with intellectual disabilities/HSN and ten with typical development. They practiced MHM on dolls three times: before, immediately after, and three months after participating in the educational program. Although the total MHM scores were significantly higher after both groups attended the program, the girls with intellectual disabilities/HSN had significantly lower total and mean scores on MHM items than girls with typical development. They still required instruction on the majority of the items after 3 months. Meanwhile, girls with intellectual disabilities/HSN showed a significant improvement in napkin changing skills and maintained post-course scores 3 months later, similar to those with typical development.
Scrub Typhus Meningoencephalitis Presenting as Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus with Basal Ganglia and Extra-limbic Cortical Involvement, Complicated by Cortical Multifocal Myoclonus
Authors: Biswas Uttam , León-Ruiz Moisés , Ghosh Ritwik , Sarkar Ritun , Bheeman Raghul , Mukhopadhyay Arpan , Benito-León Julián
Published: September 2024

Background

Scrub typhus is an acute febrile infectious disease highly prevalent in the Asia Pacific region, often referred to as the “tsutsugamushi triangle.” This mite-borne rickettsial zoonosis is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, an intracellular Gram-negative organism that primarily targets endothelial cells. The resulting vasculitis leads to multisystem involvement. In terms of neurological manifestations, meningoencephalitis is the most common presentation of scrub typhus. Other frequent neurological manifestations include cranial nerve paresis, transverse myelitis, and polyneuropathy. Status epilepticus, while reported, is a rare presenting feature of this infection. Although scrub typhus has been documented to present as limbic encephalitis, there have been no previous descriptions in the literature of neuroradiological patterns affecting the basal ganglia or extra-limbic cortices in this condition.

Case Report

We report a case of a 23-year-old previously healthy woman who presented with scrub typhus meningoencephalitis. The condition manifested as encephalitis with involvement of the basal ganglia and extra-limbic cortices. She presented with generalized convulsive status epilepticus, which was complicated by cortical multifocal myoclonus.

Discussion

Scrub typhus can be a significant diagnostic challenge, potentially presenting with generalized convulsive status epilepticus and mimicking both clinical and radiological features of arboviral encephalitides, such as those caused by West Nile and Japanese encephalitis viruses. Furthermore, as demonstrated in this case, its radiological presentation can resemble that of autoimmune encephalitis. Given that scrub typhus is amenable to treatment with antibiotics, such as doxycycline and azithromycin, which do not increase seizure risk, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with seizures or encephalitis, especially in endemic areas.
Real-world use of recombinant porcine sequence factor VIII in the treatment of acquired hemophilia A: EU PASS
Authors: Miesbach Wolfgang , Curry Nicola , Knöbl Paul , Percy Charles , Santoro Rita , Schmaier Alvin H. , Trautmann-Grill Karolin , Badejo Kayode , Chen Jie , Nouri Masoud , Oberai Pooja , Klamroth Robert
Published: September 2024

Background:

Recombinant porcine factor VIII (rpFVIII; susoctocog alfa) is indicated for the treatment of bleeding events (BEs) in adults with acquired hemophilia A (AHA).

Objectives:

To assess the safety, utilization, and effectiveness of rpFVIII in clinical practice.

Design:

EU post-authorization safety study (PASS) (NCT03199794) was a multicenter, noninterventional, post-authorization safety study conducted in adults with AHA.

Methods:

Data were collected retrospectively or prospectively for up to 180 days after the last rpFVIII dose. The primary objective was safety, as assessed by adverse events (AEs), serious AEs (SAEs), and AEs of special interest (AESIs) (e.g. immunogenicity, hypersensitivity reactions, thromboembolic events). Secondary endpoints included immunogenicity, rpFVIII hemostatic effectiveness, and rpFVIII utilization.

Results:

Fifty patients were enrolled; 31 completed the study. The median (range) follow-up for patients who completed or discontinued the study was 178 (26–371) days. The median (range) first dose of rpFVIII was 54.0 (11–200) U/kg. Thirty patients reported 46 SAEs; 5 SAEs were considered probably related to rpFVIII, of which 1 was lack of rpFVIII efficacy, and 4 were AESIs: drug resistance due to FVIII inhibition (one patient), antibody test positive for anti-pFVIII inhibitors (one patient), and de novo anti-pFVIII inhibitors (two patients). No hypersensitivity reactions or thromboembolic events were reported. Of the 50 initial BEs, 37 resolved [in a median (interquartile range) of 8.0 (4.0–16.0) days].

Conclusion:

Results from this real-world study support the use of rpFVIII for AHA, aligning with findings from the clinical trial of rpFVIII (NCT01178294) in the treatment of BEs in adults with AHA.

Trial registration:

EUPAS16055; NCT03199794.
Evaluation of the quality and readability of ChatGPT responses to frequently asked questions about myopia in traditional Chinese language
Authors: Chang Li-Chun , Sun Chi-Chin , Chen Ting-Han , Tsai Der-Chong , Lin Hui-Ling , Liao Li-Ling
Published: September 2024

Introduction

ChatGPT can serve as an adjunct informational tool for ophthalmologists and their patients. However, the reliability and readability of its responses to myopia-related queries in the Chinese language remain underexplored.

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of ChatGPT to address frequently asked questions (FAQs) about myopia by parents and caregivers.

Method

Myopia-related FAQs were input three times into fresh ChatGPT sessions, and the responses were evaluated by 10 ophthalmologists using a Likert scale for appropriateness, usability, and clarity. The Chinese Readability Index Explorer (CRIE) was used to evaluate the readability of each response. Inter-rater reliability among the reviewers was examined using Cohen's kappa coefficient, and Spearman's rank correlation analysis and one-way analysis of variance were used to investigate the relationship between CRIE scores and each criterion.

Results

Forty-five percent of the responses of ChatGPT in Chinese language were appropriate and usable and only 35% met all the set criteria. The CRIE scores for 20 ChatGPT responses ranged from 7.29 to 12.09, indicating that the readability level was equivalent to a middle-to-high school level. Responses about the treatment efficacy and side effects were deficient for all three criteria.

Conclusions

The performance of ChatGPT in addressing pediatric myopia-related questions is currently suboptimal. As parents increasingly utilize digital resources to obtain health information, it has become crucial for eye care professionals to familiarize themselves with artificial intelligence-driven information on pediatric myopia.
Analysing Credibility of Femvertising Campaigns: A Focus on Colombian Female Athletes
Authors: Sánchez-Torres Javier A. , López Correa Carolina , Arroyo-Cañada Francisco-Javier , Argila-Irurita Ana , Vila-Márquez Fátima
Published: September 2024

Advertising campaigns featuring female athletes have gained significant importance given the positive implications of gender equality, female empowerment and modern social dynamics, in which women play a crucial role, especially in Western societies. However, advertising campaigns in which female athletes are visible can be perceived by the public as false, sometimes known as woman-washing. This study explores the perception of woman-washing in femvertising-type campaigns—that is, those focused on female athletes. An empirical model is proposed and tested with partial least squares structural equation modelling. The results validate all the hypotheses, demonstrating that factors such as the public’s identification with the athlete, the fit between the athlete and the brand, and brand positioning are of great importance for the credibility of the campaign. The contributions of this paper are novel for sports marketing, femvertising and the planning of advertising campaigns.
Implications of the Updated Lyon Consensus 2.0 in Clinical Practice
Authors: Koseki Mako , Seltzer Emily S , Cavaliere Kimberly , Luo Yuying , Jodorkovsky Daniela
Published: September 2024

Over the past few decades, efforts have been made to refine the characterization of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and delineate accurate diagnostic criteria. The original Lyon Consensus published in 2018 defined conclusive diagnostic criteria for GERD, and its subsequent iteration, Lyon Consensus 2.0, provides an updated assessment for actionable GERD. We aim to review the modifications made to the updated consensus, review the supporting literature for said changes, and highlight how these changes may alter clinical practice. The key revisions in the updated consensus are the recommendations to discontinue antisecretory therapy before endoscopic grading, the modifications to endoscopic criteria for proven GERD, the incorporation of wireless pH testing parameters, and the establishment of the threshold for pH-impedance monitoring on antisecretory therapy. Apart from enhancing diagnostic reliability using conclusive and inconclusive thresholds for defining GERD, Lyon Consensus 2.0 provides medical and surgical clinicians the guidance they need to provide clear management pathways for patients with GERD symptoms.
Employee Health Plans Powered by Analytics
Authors: Hopp Wallace , Li Jun , Saghafian Soroush , Wang Guihua
Published: September 2024

A promising new business model for the employee health plans of large firms bypasses insurers and instead uses direct contracts with hospitals which have been designated as centers of excellence. Wallace Hopp, Jun Li, Soroush Saghafian, and Guihua Wang describe how combining this model with cutting edge analytics could revolutionize the delivery of high quality, cost-efficient health care.
Why Brands Grow: THE POWER OF DIFFERENTIATION AND PENETRATION
Authors: Pauwels Koen , Koll Oliver
Published: September 2024

Koen Pauwels and Oliver Koll examine the complex relationship between consumers’ attitudes toward a brand and its market outcomes. An analysis of more than 150 brands in five countries reveals the intricate reciprocal connections between customer perceptions and behaviors, brand differentiation, and market penetration in both stable and emerging markets.
Responding to the Risk of Imposed Changes on the Project Budget and Deadline
Authors: Bordley Robert F. , Keisler Jeffrey M.
Published: September 2024

How can you plan and execute a project knowing that your resources and deadlines might change at any time? Bob Bordley and Jeff Keisler describe how project managers can manage uncertainties in budget and deadlines in the same way as uncertainties about project duration and cost.
An agent in a world of possibilities: Introductory overview of the special issue
Authors: Baumeister Roy F. , Clark Cory J.
Published: September 2024

Possibilities are deeply engrained in psychology’s attempts to understand human behavior. This special issue offers diverse and novel insights into the role of possibilities. Two articles on morality show surprising links to mental illness and to counterfactual outcomes: People think doing immoral things is a sign of mental illness, and morally unwelcome outcomes stimulate retroactive imputation of more alternatives. Three articles address classic questions of determinism and choice: Possibilities are shaped by prior events, but pure determinism is useless for psychological theory, and meanwhile some perspectives in modern physics clash with psychological observations and experience. Imitation promotes prosociality but people are highly selective as to what they imitate.
Association between in vitro susceptibility and clinical outcomes in fungal keratitis
Authors: Lu Louisa , Prajna N. Venkatesh , Lalitha Prajna , Rajaraman Revathi , Srinivasan Muthiah , Arnold Benjamin F. , Acharya Nisha , Lietman Thomas , Rose-Nussbaumer Jennifer
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the association between antifungal susceptibility as measured by minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and clinical outcomes in fungal keratitis.

Methods

This pre-specified secondary analysis of the Mycotic Ulcer Treatment Trial II (MUTT II) involved patients with filamentous fungal keratitis presenting to Aravind Eye Hospitals in South India. Antifungal susceptibility testing for natamycin and voriconazole was performed on all samples with positive fungal culture results according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute Guidelines. The relationship between MIC and clinical outcomes of best-corrected visual acuity, infiltrate or scar size, corneal perforation, need for therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty, and time to re-epithelialization were assessed.

Results

We obtained MIC values from 141 patients with fungal keratitis. The most commonly cultured organisms were Aspergillus (46.81%, n = 66) and Fusarium (44.68%, n = 63) species. Overall, there was no association between antifungal MICs and clinical outcomes. Subgroup analysis revealed that among Fusarium-positive cases, higher voriconazole MIC was correlated with worse three-month best-corrected visual acuity (p = 0.03), increased need for therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (p = 0.04), and time to re-epithelialization (p = 0.03). No significant correlations were found among Aspergillus-positive cases. There were no significant correlations found between natamycin MIC and clinical outcomes among organism subgroups.

Conclusions

Decreased susceptibility to voriconazole was associated with increased odds of requiring a therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty in Fusarium-positive cases. Susceptibility to natamycin was not associated with any of the measured outcomes.
Association between low total serum testosterone and body mass index in Australian survivors of testicular cancer: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Kim Grace Y. , Conduit Ciara , O’Haire Sophie , Chong Chia Yuen , Baenziger Olivia , Lewin Jeremy , Thomas Benjamin , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Stockler Martin R. , Olver Ian , Grimison Peter , Tran Ben
Published: September 2024

Background

Primary hypogonadism is a recognised complication in survivors of testicular cancer. However, secondary hypogonadism can result from other causes that suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, including obesity, high dose glucocorticoids, chronic end organ failure, and diabetes. The aim of this study was to explore low total serum testosterone in Australian survivors of testicular cancer and examine associations with body mass index, age, and prior chemotherapy use.

Methods

Clinical data including height, weight, diagnosis, treatment, and hormonal evaluations during follow-up were extracted from the Australian and New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate (ANZUP) Cancer Trials Group Chemocog study (2007-2012), accompanied by data from two Australian, high-volume testicular cancer centres included in the iTestis testicular cancer registry (2012-2019). Low testosterone was defined by a serum concentration of testosterone (T) < 10 nmol/L, and was classified as primary by a serum concentration of luteinising hormone (LH) > 8 IU/L, otherwise as secondary.

Results

Two hundred eighty-five individuals with either stage 1 or advanced testicular cancer were included. Of these, 105 (37%) were treated with orchidectomy and chemotherapy. Forty-nine (17%) met criteria for low testosterone during follow-up: 21 (43%) had primary and 27 (55%) had secondary low testosterone. Survivors of testicular cancer with higher body mass index were more likely to display low testosterone, both primary (p = 0.032) and secondary (p = 0.028). Our data did not show evidence of an association between older age or chemotherapy use and low testosterone in our cohort.

Conclusions

Low total serum testosterone was common in survivors of testicular cancer, and associated with a higher body mass index prior to orchidectomy, suggesting that elevated body mass index may contribute to low testosterone in this population, and that body weight, diet, and exercise should be addressed in testicular cancer follow-up.
Interactions during falls with environmental objects: evidence from real-life falls in long-term care captured on video
Authors: Shishov Nataliya , Komisar Vicki , Marigold Daniel S. , Blouin Jean-Sébastien , Robinovitch Stephen N.
Published: September 2024

Background

Falls are the leading cause of injuries in older adults. Environmental objects (such as furniture, walls, and handrails) may act as hazards or facilitators to balance maintenance and safe landing. There is lack of objective evidence on how older adults interact with objects during falls. We addressed this gap by characterizing body part contacts with objects other than the floor during real-life falls in long-term care.

Methods

We analyzed videos of 1759 falls experienced by 584 residents to characterize the prevalence of contacts with objects before, during, and after fall initiation. Using generalized estimating equations, we compared the prevalence of falls with versus without contact to objects after fall initiation. Using linear mixed models, we tested for differences across body parts in the probability of contacting objects after fall initiation.

Results

In nearly one-third of falls, interactions with objects (e.g., trips over objects, loss of support with objects) or with other people (e.g., being pushed by another person) had a primary role in causing imbalance and initiating the fall. After fall initiation, participants contacted objects in 60% of falls, with intentional hand contacts to objects via reach-to-grasp or bracing being the most common type of interaction (Probability ± SE = 0.32 ± 0.01), followed by unintentional impacts to the torso (0.21 ± 0.01) and head (0.16 ± 0.01). Intentional hand contact to an object was more common during forward than backward falls (p < 0.001), while head and torso contacts to objects were more common during backward and sideways falls than forward falls (multiple p values ≤ 0.003). The hand most often contacted chairs, wheelchairs or couches, followed by tables or counters, walls, other people, walkers, and handrails. The head, torso, and shoulder most often contacted a wall.

Conclusions

Most falls in long-term care involved contacts with objects other than the ground, indicating that complex environments often accompany falls in long-term care. Higher probabilities of intentional hand contacts in forward falls, versus unintentional head and torso impacts in backward and sideways falls may reflect the influence of being able to visualize and adjust one’s falling patterns to nearby objects.
Insights into maternal pertussis vaccination counselling: a qualitative study on perspectives and experiences among midwives and gynaecologists in the Netherlands
Authors: Widdershoven Veja , van Eerd Eveline C.H. , Pfeyffer Marije , Vanderhoven Liesse M.L. , Verhaegh-Haasnoot Amanja , Reijs Rianne P. , Hoebe Christian J.P.A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) play a significant role in the decision-making process of pregnant women on maternal vaccinations. Whereas a high proportion of HCPs discuss maternal vaccinations with pregnant women, confidence in discussing maternal vaccinations is lacking and HCPs experience inadequate training to discuss maternal vaccinations with pregnant women. Furthermore, different practical barriers might influence the consultation process, such as lack of time. More studies on the barriers, as well as facilitators, to discussing maternal vaccinations is needed and will help us to better understand and support HCPs in discussing maternal vaccinations.

Methods

This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with fourteen HCPs working as midwives or gynaecologists in the Netherlands. An integrated theoretical approach was used to inform data collection and analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted using inductive and deductive approaches. This study followed the COnsolidated criteria for REporting Qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines.

Results

The thematic analysis of the data pointed to the following five themes of HCP counselling: the consultation process, attitude, perceived norm, perceived control and improvement ideas. Most HCPs follow a similar approach in maternal pertussis vaccination consultations, beginning by assessing clients’ understanding, providing basic information, and addressing questions. However, consultation timing and prioritization vary among HCPs. Challenges in consultations include client requests for clear advice, with HCPs trained to remain neutral, emphasizing client autonomy in decision-making. Most HCPs acknowledge the importance of their consultations in informing pregnant women about maternal pertussis vaccination.

Conclusions

This study offers a confirmation of the awareness of the pivotal role of HCPs in informing pregnant women about the maternal pertussis vaccination. HCPs stress the importance of neutral counselling, enabling pregnant women to make well-informed decisions independently. Because of upcoming vaccine hesitancy nowadays, HCPs must be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to navigate difficult conversations. Continuous education and training might help to increase HCPs’ confidence in handling difficult consultations. Additionally, making the information materials for pregnant women available in multiple languages and incorporating more visuals to enhance comprehension could support HCPs in reaching a broader group of pregnant women.
Burden in caregivers of patients with schizophrenia, depression, dementia, and stroke in Japan: comparative analysis of quality of life, work productivity, and qualitative caregiving burden
Authors: Kojima Yoshitsugu , Yamada Sakiko , Kamijima Kunitoshi , Kogushi Kentaro , Ikeda Shunya
Published: September 2024

Background

The main objective of this study was to examine the burden of schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s disease/dementia, and stroke on caregivers and non-caregivers in Japan. This study also aimed to provide a comparative landscape on the burden of caregiving for each disorder.

Methods

The Japan National Health and Wellness Survey database, 2016 and 2018 was used in this study. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL), work productivity, and health care utilization were assessed using a self-administered, Internet-based questionnaire. The burden of caregiving experienced by each group of caregivers was compared with background-matched non-caregivers (controls) as well as with caregivers of patients with each disorder.

Results

Caregivers of patients with schizophrenia, depression, Alzheimer’s disease/dementia, or stroke had lower HRQoL, higher healthcare costs and work productivity impairment than non-caregivers. Furthermore, caregivers of patients with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and depression had lower HRQoL and work productivity than caregivers of patients with Alzheimer’s disease/dementia and stroke. In addition, according to the Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA), caregivers of patients with schizophrenia and depression were more inclined to perceive a loss in physical strength and financial burden to the same extent as their self-esteem.

Conclusions

This study indicated a substantial caregiving burden among caregivers of patients with psychiatric and neurological diseases in Japan. The caregiver burden of psychiatric disorders (schizophrenia and depression) was greater than that of neurological disorders (Alzheimer’s disease/dementia and stroke), suggesting a need to provide support to caregivers of patients with psychiatric disorders to be better able to care for their patients.

Trial Registration

None.
Spatially clustered patterns of suicide mortality rates in South Korea: a geographically weighted regression analysis
Authors: Kim Eunah , Kim Seulgi
Published: September 2024

Background

Suicide mortality remains a global health concern, and community characteristics affect regional variations in suicide. This study investigated spatially clustered patterns of suicide mortality rates in South Korea and evaluated the impact of community factors on suicide.

Methods

Suicide mortality rates were estimated by sex, age group, and district, using the 2021 Cause of Death Statistics in South Korea from the MicroData Integrated Service. Community-determinant data for 2021 or the nearest year were collected from the Korean Statistical Information Service. The spatial autocorrelation of suicide by sex and age was examined based on Global Moran’s I index. Geographically weighted regression (GWR) was used to discern the influence of community determinants on suicide.

Results

Suicide mortality rates were significantly higher among men (40.64 per 100,000) and adults over the age of 65 years (43.18 per 100,000). The male suicide mortality rates exhibited strong spatial dependence, as indicated by a high global Moran’s I with p < 0.001, highlighting the importance of conducting spatial analysis. In the GWR model calibration, a subset of the community’s age structure, single-person household composition, access to mental healthcare centers, and unmet medical needs were selected to explain male suicide mortality. These determinants disproportionately increased the risk of male suicide, varying by region. The GWR coefficients of each variable vary widely across 249 districts: aging index (Q1:0.06–Q3:0.46), single-person households (Q1:0.22–Q3:0.35), psychiatric clinics (Q1:-0.20–Q3:-0.01), and unmet medical needs (Q1:0.09–Q3:0.14).

Conclusions

Community cultural and structural factors exacerbate regional disparities in suicide among men. The influencing factors exhibit differential effects and significance depending on the community, highlighting the need for efficient resource allocation for suicide. A regionally tailored approach is crucial for the effective control of the community’s mental health management system.
Prevalence, incidence and associated factors of musculoskeletal disorders before and during the Covid-19 pandemic in faculty members: a comparative cross-sectional study
Authors: Jalali Mahdi , Farhadi Sajjad , Esmaeili Reza , Aghaei Hamed , Rahimimoghadam Somayeh , Niroumand Mahdieh , Shahmohammadi Aida
Published: September 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the broad acceptance of distance education (DE), with university professors and students conducting the teaching–learning process remotely from their homes. The propose of this study to investigate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify risk factors associated with DE that may contribute to an increased incidence of these disorders among university professors.

Methods

This cross-sectional analytical study took a comparative approach and involved 310 university professors in Iran. Data were gathered using an online questionnaire. Initially, demographic and occupational information of the professors, hours of physical activity, and hours spent using electronic devices were recorded. Participants were then asked to report MSDs in various body areas throughout the previous year and the previous seven days. Finally, MSDs risk factors such as workstation ergonomics during computer, laptop, smartphone, and tablet use, as well as working postures during online teaching or offline content development during the COVID-19 pandemic, were examined.

Results

The majority of the participants were male (66.13%), with a PhD (46.77%) and a faculty member position (74.2%). On average, the use of computers and laptops increased by 2.67 h and 2.72 h, respectively, during the pandemic compared to before the pandemic. This increase was statistically significant (P < 0.001). MSDs incidence increased significantly before and during the COVID pandemic was observed in the areas of the neck, shoulders, lower and upper back, arms, forearms, wrists and fingers (P < 0.05). The highest cumulative incidence (Cin) of MSDs was related to the neck (Cin = 24.20%), upper back (Cin = 21.29%), low back (Cin = 18.06%) and fingers (Cin = 16.13%). The prevalence of MSDs during the COVID pandemic was significantly associated with employment status (P = 0.042), work experience (P = 0.016), age (P = 0.027), increase in the use of computers/ laptops (P < 0.001), decrease of the smartphone/tablet distance from the body (P = 0.047), workstation (smartphone-tablet, computer, laptop) (P < 0.05), head position (smartphone-tablet) (P = 0.029), display height (computer/laptop) (P = 0.045) and physical activity (P = 0.006).

Conclusions

It appears that the increased duration of smartphone, computer, and laptop use, combined with decreased physical activity and detrimental changes in ergonomic conditions of workstations during the quarantine period caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, has resulted in a shift from dynamic to static tasks and an increase in the prevalence and incidence of MSDs among university professors.