bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Haryana (India)
Authors: Rathee Rupa , Rajain Pallavi , Singh Rakhi
Published: September 2023

With the spread of coronavirus disease 2019, countries all over the world took drastic measures to curb its spread. These measures had different kinds of effects on people based on their knowledge and attitude towards this pandemic. The people faced several kinds of difficulties in their day-to-day lives. All these aspects formed the basis of this article. The data were collected through convenience sampling from a sample of 110 respondents in Haryana (India). As the data were collected in July, the country was already in its second phase of unlocking after several months of lockdown. The data were analysed using SPSS version 25. It was found that due to various awareness programs by the government, the majority of respondents had knowledge about the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 virus and its effects. The people had an attitude of fighting the spread of the virus by taking the necessary precautions. There were slight psychological effects as the country had already started unlocking. Lastly, the difficulties faced during the pandemic were discussed which had disrupted the lives of the people.
Psychological Impact of COVID-19 in India: A Survey Study of Mental Health During the Pandemic
Authors: Kolhe Rutuja Laxmikant , Madhure Rutuja Umesh
Published: September 2023

COVID-19 has wreaked havoc worldwide, challenging science, basic humanity, and mankind by posing various physiological, psychological, social, economic, and political threats. We conducted an online survey in some regions of Maharashtra, prominently Pune and Mumbai to understand the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the general population and the mental health of the public. The motive behind the research was to focus on the positive as well as the negative impact of the coronavirus crisis on the public. Social distancing, quarantine, and lockdown have affected different people in different ways. Major emphasis was laid upon the dominant factors that affect the mental well-being of an individual such as sleep routine, work schedule and social life. The survey responses were analysed to obtain useful results. We present the statistical analysis of the collected data and discuss important correlations between various factors using Cramer’s V correlation method. It is critical to study the responses of the human brain in such cases, so that mankind can prepare for any other catastrophic events in future.
From Healthcare Professionals to Public Health Practitioners: Qualitative Assessment of the Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health Management
Authors: Golechha Mahaveer , Patel Mehul , Bohra Tasneem , Panchamia Jallavi
Published: September 2023

The Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health Management (PGDPHM) was launched in 2008 to create a cadre of public health managers within the ranks of the public healthcare system. However, limited research exists on this programme and its impact on the health system. This qualitative research study aimed at obtaining in-depth perspectives of PGDPHM graduates from the Indian Institute of Public Health-Gandhinagar (IIPHG). Study participants were selected from a variety of roles across Gujarat. The programme equips healthcare professionals with several competencies essential to the management of public health issues from the community to state levels. However, the health system has yet to fully realise its potential and rationally allocate this human resource. Recognition also has not translated into public health oriented career growth for most graduates, and the duties of medical officers with this qualification continue to have a clinical focus. The PGDPHM programme has the potential to help ensure that India reaches an adequate capacity for health management professionals. It would be beneficial to improve recognition for the programme within the health system, increase focus on public health research and conduct regular evaluations to assess the career trajectories of graduates.
A Survey of Clinicians Who Provide Aid in Dying
Authors: Pottash Michael , Saikaly Kayla , Stevenson Maximilian , Krohmal Benjamin
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Little is known about the identity and moral experience of clinicians who provide the option of aid in dying to terminally ill Americans.

Methods

In May 2023 we distributed an email survey to clinicians registered for the American Clinician’s Academy on Medical Aid in Dying listserv.

Results

Of the 72 clinicians who responded, 90% were of white race, 50% were over 60 years old, and 47% had been in practice for over 20 years. Most clinicians report practicing primary care (39%) or hospice/palliative care (33%); 25% of clinicians had training in palliative medicine. 22% described their practice as a specialized “aid-in-dying practice” and 26% either “rarely” or “never” cared for the terminally ill outside the context of aid in dying. A majority (56%) of clinicians were either affiliated with an independent practice or unaffiliated. Before they began aid-in-dying work, 26% of clinicians reported having felt “somewhat” or “very” morally conflicted; after having written an aid in dying prescription, 96% felt “hardly” or “not at all” conflicted. On average, clinicians felt that aid-in-dying laws balance protection of patients with access; 39% believed that the laws were “somewhat” or “overly” protective.

Conclusion

Many responding clinicians report caring for patients considering aid in dying in specialized practices or otherwise in unaffiliated or independent practice. Clinicians report that providing aid in dying (and writing an aid-in-dying prescription) resulted in less reported moral conflict toward aid in dying.
Development and Validation of Prognostic Nomograms for Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma With Brain Metastasis in Patients Aged 45 Years or Older: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Yang Feng , Gao Lianjun , Wang Qimin , Gao Wei
Published: September 2023

Purpose

We aimed to establish nomograms to predict the survival in patients aged ≥45  years with lung squamous cell carcinoma and brain metastasis.

Methods

We collected patients diagnosed as lung squamous cell carcinoma with brain metastasis aged ≥45 years between 2010 and 2019 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Prognostic factors were determined by the univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, and then the nomogram was constructed to predict cancer-specific survival and overall survival. Nomograms were evaluated by decision curve analysis, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration plot, concordance index, and risk group stratification.

Results

In total, 2437 patients were included, with 1706 and 731 in the cohorts of training and validation, respectively. The age, N stage, T stage, liver metastasis, chemotherapy, bone metastasis, along with radiotherapy were significant in predicting the survival, and adopted for the establishment of nomograms. In the training and validation sets, the concordance index were .713(95%CI:0.699–.728) & .700(95%CI:0.677–.722) in predicting cancer-specific survival and .715(95%CI:0.701–.729) & .712(95%CI:0.690–.735) in predicting overall survival, respectively. Besides, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for predicting cancer-specific survival and overall survival in the training set were all >.7 at 1-, 2-, and 3- years. Calibration plots proved the survival predicted by nomograms were consistent with the actual values. decision curve analysis revealed better clinical validity of the nomogram in predicting cancer-specific survival and overall survival at 1-year than TNM staging. Patients were stratified into the high-/low-risk groups according to the optimal cutoff value of 100.21 for cancer-specific survival and 91.98 for overall survival. A web-based probability calculator was constructed finally.

Conclusion

Two nomograms were developed for the prognostic prediction of lung squamous cell carcinoma patients with brain metastasis aged ≥45 years, providing guidance for decision-making in clinical practice.
Insight in the Conspiracist’s Mind
Authors: Van de Cruys Sander , Bervoets Jo , Gadsby Stephen , Gijbels David , Poels Karolien
Published: September 2023

Academic Abstract

The motto of the conspiracist, “Do your own research,” may seem ludicrous to scientists. Indeed, it is often dismissed as a mere rhetorical device that conspiracists use to give themselves the semblance of science. In this perspective paper, we explore the information-seeking activities (“research”) that conspiracists do engage in. Drawing on the experimental psychology of aha experiences, we explain how these activities, as well as the epistemic experiences that precede (curiosity) or follow (insight or “aha” experiences) them, may play a crucial role in the appeal and development of conspiracy beliefs. Aha moments have properties that can be exploited by conspiracy theories, such as the potential for false but seemingly grounded conclusions. Finally, we hypothesize that the need for autonomous epistemic agency and discovery is universal but increases as people experience more uncertainty and/or feel epistemically excluded in society, hence linking it to existing literature on explaining conspiracy theories.
An analysis of musculoskeletal disorder risk factors associated with common pedagogical principles of the Lhevinne and Taubman piano schools: A literature review
Authors: Takamizawa Ryo , Kenway Leanne
Published: September 2023

Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMDs) are highly prevalent among concert pianists due to the unique sociological and historical predispositions of the instrument. Although current literature explores PRMD risk factors in isolation, few studies have explored the complex interdependencies that exist between the procedural and postural practices of pianists. This study aims to reframe this discussion by holistically exploring how common educational principles in phalangeal curvature, wrist flexion range of motion, and technical exercises interact to precipitate in PRMDs. The practices of the Lhevinne and Taubman schools were comparatively evaluated through kinematic studies to discern potential biomechanical stresses, and the findings were compared with current empirical evidence to ascertain links to PRMDs. The findings from this review indicate pedagogical susceptibility patterns may be more nuanced than the claims of stakeholders. However, studies suggest that practitioners of the Lhevinne school should incorporate phalangeal postures with active flexion to reduce susceptibility to tendinitis, osteoarthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Practitioners of the Taubman school should further apply low-intensity technical exercises for warm-ups to increase muscle flexibility and facilitate temperature-related benefits to performance. However, high-intensity exercises at the Lhevinne school such as consecutive intervals and flexibility studies are contrary to current biomechanical observations.
Differential effects of selective versus unselective sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulators on T- and B-cell response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination
Authors: Proschmann Undine , Mueller-Enz Magdalena , Woopen Christina , Katoul Al Rahbani Georges , Haase Rocco , Dillenseger Anja , Dunsche Marie , Atta Yassin , Ziemssen Tjalf , Akgün Katja
Published: September 2023

Background:

Sphingosine 1-phosphat receptor modulators (S1PRMs) have been linked to attenuated immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines.

Objective:

To characterize differences in the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in patients on selective versus unselective S1PRMs.

Methods:

Monocentric, longitudinal study on people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) on fingolimod (FTY), siponimod (SIP), ozanimod (OZA), or without disease-modifying therapy (DMT) following primary and booster SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and T-cell response was measured with electro-chemiluminescent immunoassay and interferon-γ release assay.

Results:

Primary vaccination induced a significant antibody response in pwMS without DMT while S1PRM patients exhibited reduced antibody titers. The lowest antibodies were found in patients on FTY, whereas patients on OZA and SIP presented significantly higher levels. Booster vaccinations induced increased antibody levels in untreated patients and comparable titers in patients on OZA and SIP, but no increase in FTY-treated patients. While untreated pwMS developed a T-cell response, patients on S1PRMs presented a diminished/absent response. Patients undergoing SARS-CoV-2 vaccination before onset of S1PRMs presented a preserved, although attenuated humoral response, while T-cellular response was blunted.

Conclusion:

Our data confirm differential effects of selective versus unselective S1PRMs on T- and B-cell response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and suggest association with S1PRM selectivity rather than lymphocyte redistribution.
The impact of coping behaviors on perceived competence and social anxiety in the everyday social engagement of autistic adolescents
Authors: Chen Yu-Wei Ryan , Ng Daphne Yih , Tseng Mei-Hui , Bundy Anita , Cordier Reinie
Published: September 2023

Individuals who cope well with challenges may engage in social situations more successfully. We examined the association between coping behaviors, self-perceived competence, and social anxiety in everyday social situations. A total of 133 participants between the ages of 10 and 16 years (82 autistic, 51 neurotypical) carried a mobile device that prompted them seven times each day for 7 days to record what they were doing and their perceived competence and social anxiety in that situation. We used the Coping Inventory to measure overall coping abilities (i.e. coping with the self and the environment). Multilevel analyses found that autistic adolescents were more likely than neurotypical peers to experience social anxiety while engaged in maintenance or productive activities with adults. While their ability to cope with the self was positively associated with perceived social competence, it was negatively associated with the ability to cope with environmental challenges. Furthermore, autistic adolescents with poor ability to cope with environmental challenges were more likely than those who coped well to be socially anxious when engaged in leisure activities with peers. Findings from this study can guide evaluation and intervention to improve the social experiences of autistic adolescents by helping them increase coping skills.

Lay abstract

Individuals who cope well with challenges may engage in social situations more successfully. We examined how well autistic adolescents coped, depending on how competent they felt and how much anxiety they experienced during social activities. We included 133 individuals (82 autistic, 51 neurotypical) between the ages of 10 and 16 years. Participants carried a mobile device that prompted them seven times a day for 7 days to record what they were doing, how competent they felt and how much anxiety they experienced. We used the Coping Inventory to understand how well participants coped with environmental challenges and met their needs for growth. Autistic adolescents were more likely than neurotypical peers to feel anxious while doing activities with adults. Autistic adolescents who had more difficulty coping with challenges were more likely to feel anxious when doing leisure activities with peers. Interestingly, autistic adolescents who coped better with challenges tended to feel less competent in social situations. However, those better able to meet their needs for growth tended to perceive their social competence positively. These findings can help practitioners develop strategies and programs to reduce the negative social experiences of autistic adolescents by helping them cope better.
Trends in social inequality and how mental wellbeing vary and covary among Norwegian adolescents and their families: the Young-HUNT Study
Authors: Aasan Bodil Elisabeth Valstad , Lillefjell Monica , Krokstad Steinar , Sund Erik R.
Published: September 2023

Background:

The study had two aims: first, to investigate trends in socioeconomic inequalities in psychological distress and loneliness among Norwegian adolescents, and second, to study variation and covariation of psychological distress and loneliness within adolescents and between siblings within families.

Methods:

Multivariate mixed models were used to investigate trends in socioeconomic inequality in psychological distress and loneliness using three separate cohorts of Norwegian adolescents from the Young-HUNT study conducted in 1995–1997 (Young-HUNT1, n = 8980), 2006–2008 (Young-HUNT3, n = 8199) and 2017–2019 (Young-HUNT4, n = 8066). Register data on parental education level was used as a marker of socioeconomic position (SEP), and a unique family number was used to identify adolescents belonging to the same family. A three-level multivariate mixed model was created, consisting of the outcomes at level 1, adolescents at level 2 and families at level 3.

Results:

No statistically significant difference in scores on loneliness and psychological distress was observed between low and high parental education level in Young-HUNT1, whereas in Young-HUNT4, low parental education level was associated with a higher score on both psychological distress (β = 0.09; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.03–0.14) and loneliness (β = 0.12; 95% CI 0.07–0.17). Analyses of covariation between psychological distress and loneliness showed that they were correlated within adolescents and strongly correlated within families across all timepoints.

Conclusions:

Increasing socioeconomic inequalities in psychological distress and loneliness among Norwegian adolescents is worrisome. Further, the family seems to be an important arena for potential prevention of psychological distress and loneliness among adolescents, regardless of parental education level.
Cumulative buckling deformation of stiffened panel under cyclic loading
Authors: Barsotti Beatrice , Gaiotti Marco
Published: September 2023

In this study, the cumulative buckling deformation process is evaluated for a stiffened panel subjected to two different uniaxial cyclic loading conditions, namely compressive loading only and alternating tensile-compressive loading. The impact of the cyclic load on the ultimate strength of the panel is then estimated. It should be noted that the occurrence of permanent deformations could be simulated by finite element analysis using a suitable model capable of correctly capturing the deformation components. The results show that the structure accumulates a deformation that appears to grow almost linearly therefore, consequently, it is realistic to expect that if a large number of load cycles of this magnitude are imposed, the accumulated plastic deformation can be quite severe. Furthermore, it is found that these residual deformations, caused by an entity of the cyclic load lower than the design limit, affect the tensile strength of the stiffened panel. Finally, the effects on the numerical evaluation of the ultimate strength of the structure are shown.
Phased array microphone measurement of a ducted low-speed axial flow fan at various operating points with the involvement of the acoustically transparent duct technique
Authors: Lendvai Bálint , Benedek Tamás
Published: September 2023

The aeroacoustic investigation of ducted turbomachines is not evident. Wall-mounted and strut-mounted microphones placed in the flow field are both sensitive to installation, placement, and flow-related effects. Therefore, it is advantageous to place the microphone sensors outside of the ducting of the turbomachine while also accounting for the acoustic characteristic of the ducting. In this paper, a ducted low-speed axial flow fan is investigated with the acoustically transparent duct (ATD) and the phased array microphone (PAM) Rotating Source Identification (ROSI) beamforming techniques at design and off-design conditions. The combination of these methods is capable of identifying the dominant sound sources of the fan in a non-intrusive approach at stall condition, pre-stall operation, design condition, and part-load operating condition as well.
Entangled phronesis and the four causes of emulation: Developmental insights into role modelling
Authors: Henderson Emerald
Published: September 2023

A new theory of emulation – the method by which one learns from moral role models – is emerging through the combined efforts of philosophers, psychologists and educationists. Using a previous argument reconceptualising emulation as a moral virtue as a philosophical springboard, in this paper, I extend this theory by building a more robust case for how emulation qua role modelling works in practice through direct appeal to Aristotle’s account of causation: the four causes. Historically revered for their explanatory power, I argue that reconstructing the four causes and synthesising them with emulation enables us to better comprehend it as a quadripartite causal process. Through doing so, I propose that emulation is driven by ‘entangled phronesis’ – a mechanism which enables immature moral learners to acquire virtue by sharing in the phronesis, that is, practical wisdom, of a role model. Since the degree of entanglement depends upon a learner’s phase of virtuous character development, I also divide emulation into two types: pre-phronetic ‘habituated emulation’ and phronetically-informed ‘complete emulation’. Combined with my four-causal account of emulation, these concepts represent a novel contribution to neo-Aristotelian character developmental theory and help explain – step-by-step – the method by which one potentially acquires moral virtue and phronesis from moral role models.
Exploring the Relationships Between Rehabilitation and Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence: A Scoping Review
Authors: Toccalino Danielle , Asare Gifty , Fleming Jenna , Yin Joyce , Kieftenburg Amy , Moore Amy , Haag Halina (Lin) , Chan Vincy , Babineau Jessica , MacGregor Nneka , Colantonio Angela
Published: September 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health crisis affecting one in three women and one in ten men in their lifetimes. Rehabilitation professionals are highly likely to encounter survivors of IPV in their practice; yet, there exists no formal review assessing the relationship between IPV and rehabilitation. Our objective was to understand the types and contexts of rehabilitation care currently available for survivors of IPV, opportunities identified in the literature for rehabilitation care, and IPV awareness and education among rehabilitation providers. A search strategy related to IPV and four rehabilitation professionals of interest (occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech-language pathology/therapy, and physiatry) was developed across 10 databases and complemented by a gray literature search. Two reviewers independently assessed articles for inclusion. In all, 44 articles met inclusion criteria, ranging from primary research articles (48%) to clinical newsletters. Included articles predominantly focused on opportunities for rehabilitation care (68%) and occupational therapists as a profession (68%). A minority of studies examined specific interventions for IPV survivors (18%) or assessed for knowledge and attitudes about IPV (16%) among rehabilitation professionals. To our knowledge, this is the first scoping review exploring the rehabilitation literature for IPV survivors. These findings show an awareness of IPV among rehabilitation professionals, the importance of identifying IPV in clients, and the ways in which rehabilitation professionals are uniquely situated to support survivors of IPV. There remains an opportunity to explore interventions designed specifically for IPV survivors.
Building Public Health Competencies for Cross-Sector Leadership: Results From the National Leadership Academy for the Public’s Health
Authors: Jones Maggie , Kuo Elena , Lee Abbie , Sewald Craig A. , Lustig Karya , Nevarez Carmen Rita
Published: September 2023

Context. The public health workforce is increasingly being asked to provide leadership in addressing complex community health needs. Effective leadership requires adaptiveness and cross-sector collaboration in developing solutions to address community needs. Program. An annual yearlong public health leadership development program, which engages cross-sector teams and uses an iterative design to build competencies for adaptive and collaborative leadership across sectors (e.g., public health, business, education, nonprofits). Implementation. The program engages cross-sector teams through a national retreat, coaching, site visits, interactive webinars, readings, and a community-based action learning project. As of 2020, the program was offered to nine cohorts, serving more than 100 communities across the United States. Results. Results from a mixed-methods evaluation found that high proportions of participants reported increased leadership skills, cross-sector collaboration, continued use of tools and concepts, and positive impact on their communities after participating in the program. Across all cohorts, participants rated themselves on five leadership domains and 17 leadership competencies focused on by the program. All domains and all competencies had statistically significant improvements from the beginning to the end of their program year. Discussion. The improvements in leadership skills were seen across all cohorts, geographies, roles, and sectors. The success of the program suggests the need for leadership programs that emphasize adaptive and collaborative leadership to advance community health and equity.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes After Endovascular Treatment in Patients With Femoropopliteal Lesions Greater Than 150 mm
Authors: Dubosq-Lebaz Maxime , Fels Audrey , Chatellier Gilles , Gouëffic Yann
Published: September 2023

Objective:

Indications for endovascular treatment of femoropopliteal (FP) lesions have steadily increased over the past decade. Accordingly, the number of devices has also increased but the choice of the best endovascular treatment remains to be defined. The aim of this meta-analysis was to summarize all studies investigating endovascular treatment of FP lesions greater than 150 mm from 2010 to 2021.

Methods:

Articles were searched using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane. Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and case series (prospective and retrospective) that evaluated any endovascular procedure in patients with long FP lesions classified TASC (Trans-Atlantic Inter-Society Consensus document II on management of peripheral arterial disease) C and/or D, and a mean length >150 mm, primary outcome had to be the 1-year primary patency. Overall estimate of primary patency, secondary patency, and freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 1 year depending on the different devices were investigated. The meta-analysis was conducted following the requirements of the MOOSE (Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) checklist.

Results:

Forty-four papers comprising 4847 patients and 5282 treated limbs were included. Mean lesions length ranged from 150.5 to 330 mm. The pooled 1-year primary and secondary patencies, and freedom from TLR rates were 0.71 (95% CI: 0.67–0.74), 0.87 (95% CI: 0.83–0.91), and 0.79 (95% CI: 0.74–0.84), respectively. Primary permeability at 1 year were 0.68 (95% CI: 0.62–0.73), 0.67 (95% CI: 0.60–0.74), 0.74 (95% CI: 0.64–0.84), and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78–0.88) for bare metal stents, covered stents (CSs), drug-eluting stents, and drug-coated balloons (DCBs), respectively. Lesions treated with DCB had the highest 1-year primary patency rate.

Conclusions:

At 1-year, endovascular procedures for FP lesions greater than 150 mm obtain satisfactory results. High primary patency rates were obtained with drug-coated devices, while CSs obtained less favorable results. Randomized studies comparing different devices in the treatment of long FP lesions remain necessary to determine the most optimal approach for the management of these patients.

Clinical Impact

This paper highlights on the one hand the satisfactory results of endovascular treatment on complex femoropopliteal lesions formerly reserved for conventional surgery. On the other hand, among the available devices, paclitaxel-eluting devices seem to show superior results which should make them recommended as first-line treatment.
Impact of Preoperative Three-Dimensional Endoanal Ultrasound on the Surgical Outcome of Primary Fistula in Ano. A Multi-Center Observational Study of 253 Patients
Authors: Brillantino Antonio , Iacobellis Francesca , Brusciano Luigi , Giordano Pasquale , Santoro Giulio Aniello , Sudol-Szopinska Iwona , Grillo Maurizio , Maglio Mauro Natale , Foroni Fabrizio , Palumbo Alessio , Menna Maria Paola , Antropoli Carmine , Docimo Ludovico , Renzi Adolfo
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of preoperative three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound (3D-EAUS) on the clinical outcome of anal fistula surgery.

Methods

The research consisted of multi-center retrospective case-control study including 253 consecutive adult patients undergoing surgery for confirmed or suspected primary fistula in ano who had undergone preoperative 3D-EAUS evaluation between January 2011 and January 2021. Main outcome measures were the concordance (K value) between ultrasound results and surgery in the identification of fistulas internal openings, primary tracts and secondary extensions and the 6 and 12 months success rate in patients with concordant and discordant findings.

Results

A good agreement in the identification of the main fistulas characteristics between ultrasound results and operative findings was found. A significant difference ( P < .0001; Fisher’s exact test) in the success rate was found between patients with concordant and discordant ultrasound results and operative findings in identification or location of internal opening. Particularly, all the 11 (4.8%) patients with discordant results experimented a failure of the surgical procedure at 6 months follow-up. At re-operation, the shift from discordant to concordant results was associated with an 81.8% 12 months success-rate.

Conclusion

The three-dimensional endoanal ultrasound preoperative evaluation may have a relevant impact on the outcome of a defined group of patients undergoing surgery for anal fistula, since the careful evaluation of ultrasound results could simplify the internal orifice intra-operative detection and improve the success rate.
Oral Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Uptake and Acceptability Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Moyo Perez Livias , Nunu Wilfred Njabulo
Published: September 2023

Despite the global effort to end the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic as a global threat by 2030, the rate of new HIV infections worldwide remains unacceptably high among men who have sex with men, hence the need to use pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of HIV infection. This population has an increased risk of getting HIV; thus, it is imperative to assess the uptake and acceptability of PrEP. This study investigated the willingness, availability, accessibility, and knowledge and identified barriers and facilitators to using PrEP among this population. A scoping literature review search was conducted on research papers published in English and focused on men who have sex with men and their use of PrEP. These were independently screened and coded. Of about 1,202 literature sources, 55 were included in the study. Findings reported that the uptake and acceptability of PrEP were influenced by knowledge and perception of being high-risk. Generally, PrEP uptake and understanding were high in North America, Latin America, and Europe and low in Asia and Africa. Low uptake and acceptability have been largely attributed to fear of side effects, societal stigma, cost, and perception of not being at risk. Noted facilitators to PrEP use include education, availability of free pills, support groups, and friendly health care facilities. Health intervention programs to increase the use of PrEP must be backed by appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks.
Crime in a prison cell: Epistemic cultures and institutional neutrality in an inquisitorial setting
Authors: Santos Filipe , Costa Susana
Published: September 2023

A death that occurs inside a prison cell initiates a distinct set of procedures from those around a death on the outside. When a confined space within a penal institution of total surveillance and control becomes a crime scene, it may reflect the prevailing institutional cultures and the ways in which they react and adapt. This paper analyses the case of Marcos, who was found dead in a Portuguese prison cell which he shared with another individual. From the discovery of the body to the crime scene inspection by the police, and from the autopsy to the trial, the qualitative analysis of the inscriptions produced in this case reveals and highlight the epistemic cultures involved. As each culture is developed from the professional practices and modes of acquiring and using knowledge, the analysis of their logic contributes to an understanding of how forensic evidence is co-produced and appropriated in the Portuguese legal context. We identify five epistemic cultures: institutional defence, hunch, office, bubble, and ‘rubber stamp’. We argue that the apparent neutrality of an inquisitorial criminal justice system enables the development of particular ways of producing, understanding and using scientific knowledge and forensic evidence.
‘Did the NFL start caring about women a lot more after Ray Rice? Probably not’: White-collar deviance and violence against women in racial capitalist sport
Authors: Sailofsky Daniel
Published: September 2023

From a zemiological perspective, organizations causing social harm in their pursuit of profit is a form of white-collar deviance. In the case of sport and violence committed by athletes outside of the field of play, the structures of professional sport and the decisions made by organizations can impact not only the athletes involved, but victims, potential victims and society at large. Interviewing National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Football League (NFL) front office members and journalists, I explore how teams in both elite professional sports leagues make player evaluation decisions regarding players who have been accused of criminality and violence against women, to assess sport organizations and leagues’ role in the violence of athletes. Interviewees noted that the talent of the player, their ability to produce value for the organization, and the potential backlash from fans and media play a pre-eminent role in organizational decision-making. Paired with professional sport’s privileging of dominance and aggression by athletes, this talent and production-based sanctioning of players accused of VAW illustrates organizational, league and capitalist sport structures’ complicity in continued acts of violence by athletes. Implications for contemporary conceptualizations of deviant leisure and organizational white-collar crime are also discussed.
Two novel coumarin-based fluorescent probes for the detection of Cu2+ and biological applications
Authors: Zhang Canxin , Huang Li , Wang Lizhen , Meng Xia , Zhou Jianhua , Duan Hongdong
Published: September 2023

Large accumulations of copper (Cu) ions in the human body may cause damage, including organ and brain damage. In recent years, studies have proven that a large accumulation of Cu ions can lead to Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease; therefore, it is great important to develop novel strategies for detecting trace Cu in environmental and biological samples. In this work, we designed two new coumarin-based colorimetric and fluorescent probes, HQ1 and HQ2. These two probes could selectively respond to Cu2+ with obvious color and fluorescence changes, and the presence of other metal ions had no effect on these changes. The two probes also exhibited high sensitivity for Cu2+, with a detection limit as low as 1.81 × 10–8 M/1.57 × 10–8 M. Notably, the two probes showed potential practical applications and were successfully used for detecting Cu2+ in a test strip, A549 cells, and living zebrafish larvae.
The (null) effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Europeans’ attitudes toward democracy
Authors: Hernández Enrique , Ares Macarena
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we analyze the short-term impact of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on Europeans’ attitudes toward democracy. For this purpose, we leverage the coincidence of the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022 with the fieldwork of the European Social Survey in 10 countries. By means of an unexpected event during survey design, we analyze the impact of the invasion on 12 different attitudes toward democracy, including overt support for democracy, satisfaction with democracy, as well as the importance attributed to particular democratic principles. The results of this comprehensive analysis reveal that the invasion did not have a substantive impact on individuals’ attitudes toward democracy. The invasion of a neighboring democratic country by an autocratic power did not alter Europeans’ satisfaction with democracy, their support for this political regime, or the importance they attribute to different democratic principles.
Christian higher education in fractured societies: Societal challenges and agapeic wisdom
Authors: Buijs Govert Joan
Published: September 2023

In this opening lecture for the 2022 Budapest Conference on “Building Community in Fractured Societies: Challenges for Christians in Higher Education,” an overview is given of recent societal developments, (geo-) political, economic, ecological, sociological, psychological, and spiritual. A basic framework is presented on how to analyze today's, late-modern world. It is a world in which instrumental rationality is highly dominant. Next to this, powerful societal complexes exert deep influence on the lives of humans: political, economic, media, and medical. Over against this is posed the “real human world” of meaning and responsibility, as the key focus of Christian higher education.
MFI-11 Predicts Post-Operative Serious Complications in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Odontoid Fractures
Authors: Castel Xavier , Pelletier Jean-Baptiste , Sulpis Benoit , Charier David , Buhot Benjamin , Mihail Gurschi , Carlioz Violette , Barral-Clavel Fanelie , Sylvain Granges , Tetard Marie-Charlotte , Vassal Francois
Published: September 2023

Study Design

Retrospective Cohort.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to analyze postoperative complications in different mFI-11 groups after surgery for odontoid fractures in a geriatric population.

Methods

A single center retrospective review of odontoid fractures surgery (between 2013 and 2022) in patients aged 65 years and older was conducted. The primary outcome was the occurrence of a major complication (Calvien-Dindo ≥4) within 30 days post-surgery. The secondary outcome was the occurrence of a major complication within 3 months after surgery, and death within 1-month post-surgery. Survival curve, multi-variate analysis was performed and adjusted receiver operating characteristic curves were generated.

Results

There were 92 patients included in this study, with a mean age of 80.5 years. Serious complication occurred for 16 patients (17%) during hospitalization. Multivariate analysis demonstrated an mFI 11 >.27 was strongly and independently associated with serious complications within 1-month post-surgery (OR = 16.7, 95% CI = 4.50-83), as well as serious complications within 3 months post-surgery (OR = 11.8, 95% CI = 3.48-49.1) and death within 1 month post-surgery (OR = 11.7; 95% CI = 3.02-60.4). The Receiver Operator Characteristics (ROC) curves for the three models all have an Area Under the Curve (AUC) value greater than 0.7.

Conclusions

The mFI-11 is a straightforward and validated tool that can be used during the preoperative period to identify the patient’s level of frailty and assess their risk of postoperative complications. Patients with mFI-11 ≥.27 are at greater risk of serious complications within 1 and 3 months’ post-surgery and death within 1 month post-surgery.
Use of Clinical Practice Guidelines and Quality Metrics to Assess Primary Care Management of Osteoporosis
Authors: Camp Kathlene , Hartos Jessica , Atanda Adenike
Published: September 2023

Background: Clinical practice guidelines and quality measures provide recommendations for physicians addressing osteoporosis management. This study explored the alignment of osteoporosis clinical practice in a primary care geriatric clinic with recommended guidelines. Methods: This retrospective chart review included 388 patients 65 or older from a primary care geriatric clinic diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis, with or without a fragility fracture. Data included history of falls and use of DXA scans, FRAX® fracture risk assessment tool, osteoporosis medication, and fall risk mitigation plans. Results: For age-related primary fracture prevention, 68% of women and 87% of men had documented DXA scans, and 45% of patients diagnosed with osteoporosis and 42% determined at high risk were prescribed osteoporosis medication. For secondary fracture prevention, 72% of women aged 67 to 85 had DXA scans and 21% were prescribed osteoporosis medication. Only 10% of patients with a history of falls had documented fall risk management plans. Conclusion: Although showing higher rates of primary and secondary prevention outcomes than did research results from general primary care, gaps were identified for high fracture risk patients and fall risk management documentation. Medical record review may not provide sufficient data to capture factors influencing decision-making for fracture prevention.
Enhancing Students’ Understanding of Health Disparities and Social Determinants of Health Through a Community and Research-Based Project
Authors: Dean Caress A. , Iqbal Iffa , Sidhu Sumeet , Morris Krista , Tellez Nunez Cristina Valeria
Published: September 2023

The complex health demands of society emphasize the need for future health professionals to gain a deeper understanding of social determinants of health (SDOH) and provide meaningful health outcomes. Seventeen undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a cross-listed public health elective course in Winter 2020 completed a remote application-based course project. This project was conducted to expand students’ comprehension of SDOH as underlying factors contributing to health disparities and inequities. It also sought to increase their awareness of tools and resources in the community to aid populations in overcoming determinants. Last, it aimed to provide them with experience applying population health concepts and enhancing their research skills. The course project utilized a real-world application approach as it consisted of students (1) developing a Detroit-focused community resource guide, (2) creating a related resource map, and (3) composing two manuscripts on the course project and learning experience. Students’ deliverables included a developed community resource guide and related interactive map and the construction of the manuscripts on the project and their learning experience, which was separated into two manuscripts. Students completed a journal reflection, which was used to assess their learning experience. Students’ journal reflections were examined using NVivo12 to identify the six themes in their learning experience. The project effectively met the course learning outcomes while aiding students in recognizing Detroit’s health disparities and the influence of SDOH. It also provided students with deliverables.
Patient Perception of Physician Attire Before and After the COVID-19 Global Pandemic Began
Authors: Hedges Mary S. , Tolaymat Leila M. , Haskell Nicole K. , Prier Cara , Walker Ashley L. , Haga Claire , Li Zhuo , Yin Mingyuan , McManus Mindy , Dawson Nancy
Published: September 2023

Introduction: This study evaluated patient preference of physician attire both before and after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic began. The primary outcome was patient preference of physician attire in 2017 compared to 2022 survey cohorts. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study performed at a single-site academic institution in the United States using patient survey materials. In total, 339 patients were included in the study, 161 from 2017 and 178 from 2022. Key Points: There was a statistically significant decrease in patient preference for formal attire in the clinical settings of primary care, hospital, and overall. Male patient preference for formal attire declined in primary care, emergency room, and overall; whereas female patient preference for formal attire declined in the hospital setting. For all genders, the odds ratio was statistically significantly lower in the settings of primary care clinic, hospital, and overall clinical settings. Conclusions: Patient preference for physicians wearing formal attire has decreased significantly since the COVID-19 global pandemic began.
Creating Value for Brand Practice by Design Research—New Brand Sprint as an Illustrative Example
Authors: Baumgarth Carsten , Boltz Dirk-Mario , Kaibel Cosima
Published: September 2023

As discussed under the keyword of Academic-Practitioner-Gap, the current academic brand research offers low value for practitioners. Design Research helps to develop practice-relevant questions and solution tools to fill this gap. This study proposes four criteria for conducting and evaluating design research projects in order to disseminate the approach in academic brand research: (a) Real user needs, (b) Trial-and-error process, (c) Artifact and (d) Pragmatic validity. The application of these criteria will be illustrated using the case New Brand Sprint, a 32-month research project in the context of brand positioning conducted along the steps inspiration, ideation/iteration and implementation, which are structuring a design research project. The New Brand Sprint enables start-ups and other companies to develop a good brand positioning within three hours using the New Brand Sprint Canvas and working in a group with strict timeboxing and clear roles. With the proposed criteria and the presented case study New Brand Sprint, the study shows that design research can contribute to closing the gap between theory and practice due to its user-centeredness and pragmatic validity.
Simultaneous Bilateral Open-Globe Repair and Vitreoretinal Surgery for Explosive-Related Ocular Injury
Authors: Mishra Kapil , Roybal C. Nathaniel , Mahajan Vinit B.
Published: September 2023

Purpose: To report an approach to explosive injuries with simultaneous, co-surgeon bilateral ruptured globe repair and pars plana vitrectomy for bilateral intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs). Methods: A case and its findings were analyzed. Results: A 31-year-old man had bilateral vision loss after an air compressor malfunction that caused a high-pressure explosion to his face. An examination showed bilateral open-globe injuries and IOFBs, necessitating urgent repair. Given the risk for endophthalmitis and the need for expeditious repair, open-globe repair surgery was performed in both eyes simultaneously by co-surgeons followed by pars plana lensectomy, vitrectomy with IOFB removal, and silicone oil placement. The final visual acuity after bilateral scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation was 20/20 OD and 20/25 OS. Conclusions: This case of bilateral open-globe injuries and IOFBs required expeditious repair with bilateral, simultaneous surgery that ultimately resulted in excellent visual outcomes. Simultaneous surgery may be an option for bilateral ocular trauma.