bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adolescent E-Cigarette Expectancies: Measure Development and Preliminary Validity of the Electronic Nicotine Vaping Outcomes Measure for Youth
Authors: Harrell Paul T. , England Kelli J. , Barnett Tracey E. , Simmons Vani N. , Handel Richard W. , Paulson Amy C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (“e-cigarettes”) are the nicotine product most commonly used by adolescents. Research, treatment, and policy could benefit from measures of adolescent e-cigarette beliefs about outcomes of use (ie, expectancies). In the current study, we developed and tested an adolescent electronic nicotine vaping expectancy measure.

Methods

A focus group with adolescents evaluated potential e-cigarette expectancy items. A panel of national experts assisted in revision of these items. Finally, items were administered to a sample of adolescents 14-17 years old (N = 267, Mean age 15.6, SD = 1.1, 50.9% Female, 50.2% Non-Hispanic White, 22.5% Non-Hispanic Black, 14.2% Hispanic) in a large Southeastern metropolitan area in the United States.

Results

Exploratory Factor Analysis revealed a four factor solution: Negative Consequences (Cronbach’s α = .92); Positive Reinforcement (α = .83); Negative Affect Reduction (α = .95); and Weight Control (α = .89). Subscales were significantly correlated with vaping susceptibility and lifetime vaping. Subscales successfully differentiated susceptible adolescents from confirmed non-susceptible adolescents, with susceptible adolescents reporting more positive expectancies, eg, Positive Reinforcement, M = 5.0, SD = 2.0 vs M = 3.0, SD = 2.1, P < .001, η2 = 0.19, and less negative expectancies, M = 5.5, SD = 2.3 vs M = 6.5, SD = 2.6, P = .001, η2 = 0.04. Similar results were found comparing adolescents who have never vaped nicotine with those who have vaped nicotine. Hierarchical linear regression demonstrated subscales were significant predictors of lifetime vaping after controlling for demographics, vaping ad exposure, and peer/family vaping.

Conclusions

A preliminary version of an adolescent expectancy measure appears reliable and valid based on expert input and pilot testing with adolescents. Promising results were found in the domains of concurrent validity, discriminant validity, and incremental validity. Future research and evaluation efforts will be able to use this tool to further prevention and treatment goals.
Isolated Pulmonic Valve Endocarditis: A Rare Clinical Entity
Authors: Gizaw Abera Wondie , Tadesse Abilo , Alemu Hailemaryam , Worku Abebe , Chanie Samuel Dereje , Muluken Getasew
Published: August 2024

Background:

Isolated pulmonic valve endocarditis is a rare heart valve infection, and constitutes about 1% to 2% of all infective endocarditis cases. Modified Duke’s criteria were used to diagnose culture negative pulmonic valve endocarditis.

Case presentation:

A 52-year-old male patient presented with generalized body swelling of 1 month duration associated with prolonged fever, malaise, fatigue, and lassitude. He had productive cough, dyspnea on mild exertion, and reddish discoloration of urine. Upon physical examination, blood pressure (BP) = 140/90 mmHg, pulse rate (PR) = 104 beats per minute, respiratory rate (RR) = 26 breaths per minute, temperature (T0) = 38.3°C, and Sp02 = 90% at ambient air. He had signs of bilateral pleural effusion. Cardiovascular examination revealed tachycardia, raised jugular venous pressure, murmurs of pulmonic regurgitation, and tricuspid regurgitation. There was grade 2 ascites and bilateral leg edema. On laboratory investigation, there were normochromic, normocytic anemia; raised ESR; positive Rheumatoid factor, elevated serum creatinine; and active urinary sediments on urinalysis. Two sets of blood culture were negative on days 1, 5, and 7. Chest-X-ray showed cardiomegaly with bilateral pleural effusion. ECG revealed sinus tachycardia with regular P-waves and QRS complexes. 2D Transthoracic echo showed vegetation on pulmonic valves, pulmonary valve lesions, dilated right atrium and right ventricle, and elevated right ventricular systolic pressure. Abdominal ultrasound revealed enlarged and echogenic kidneys, and ascites. Definitive diagnosis of PVE was made using modified Duke’s criteria which was evidenced by 1 major (echo-proven vegetation on pulmonic valve), and 3 minors (suspected congenital pulmonic stenosis, fever, and immunologic phenomena [acute glomerulonephritis, positive rheumatoid factor]). The patient’s clinical condition markedly improved after 2 weeks of intravenous antibiotics and loop diuretics, and discharged home after completing 6 weeks of parenteral antibiotics.

Conclusion:

Modified Duke’s criteria could play a major role in the management decision about diagnosis and empiric treatment of infective endocarditis in the absence of positive bacterial cultures.
The Manta mystique: Destination image and its effect on tourist citizenship behavior and willingness to sacrifice
Authors: Limonta Rauny , Ruiz-Moreno Felipe , Ali Attia Abdelkader , Zingone Luigi
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced tourism managers to reevaluate their strategies for attracting visitors and aiding in the recovery of destinations. This new approach emphasizes increased tourist engagement with the destination and stresses the importance of concepts like tourist citizenship behaviors and their willingness to sacrifice. This research investigates the correlations among destination image, tourist citizenship behaviors, and the willingness to sacrifice. By examining these factors, the study provides valuable information into the emotional and cognitive aspects of tourists’ interactions with the destination image and their collaborative behaviors. This information can be used to enhance the visitor experience and the attraction of the destination. Conducted in the captivating city of Manta, Ecuador, this research aims to address the gap in understanding tourists’ perceptions of South American destinations, presenting a unique perspective on the region's tourism potential. Beyond advancing tourism literature, this comprehensive study offers practical approaches for destination marketing organizations to attract tourists and enhance destination competitiveness.
Selfie-loving mothers and children in China: The relationship between the selfie-related behaviors of mothers and adolescents’ cosmetic surgery consideration
Authors: Xiao Lijuan , Ren Yurui , Li Baolin
Published: August 2024

The current study examined the relationship between mothers’ selfie-related behaviors and adolescents’ cosmetic surgery consideration, as well as the mediating effects of the adolescents’ selfie-related behaviors, body surveillance, and facial dissatisfaction. A total of 541 mother-child dyads with adolescents averaging 16.55 years old, was recruited. The path analysis revealed that mothers’ selfie-related behaviors were not directly related to adolescents’ consideration of cosmetic surgery, but the link was mediated by the adolescents’ selfie-related behaviors, body surveillance, and facial dissatisfaction. Specifically, there was a mediating effect of adolescents’ facial dissatisfaction, as well as serial mediating effects of adolescents’ selfie-related behaviors and facial dissatisfaction, of adolescents’ selfie-related behaviors and body surveillance, and of adolescents’ selfie-related behaviors, body surveillance and facial dissatisfaction. Additionally, we did not find a significant gender difference in the model. These findings provide further insights into the association between a mother’s selfie activities and adolescent children’s cosmetic surgery consideration.
An effective protection against unemployment for self-employed and platform workers? The intriguing case of Denmark
Authors: Jacqueson Catherine
Published: August 2024

This article discusses whether self-employed and platform workers in Denmark have effective access to the unemployment insurance scheme. The Danish case is intriguing in a comparative context. Unlike other European States, it has been possible in Denmark for the self-employed to formally access the unemployment scheme since 1976. The system is also interesting as it is rather flexible, and was recently adapted to meet the challenges of changing work patterns and an increase in atypical forms of work, such as platform work. Yet, it is argued that important barriers to effective coverage remain. Some barriers, such as the voluntary character of the insurance and its eligibility criteria, are common to all persons with low and irregular work. Other barriers are specific to the self-employed and relate to the conditions for proving the closing down of business, and to waiting periods.
The influence of selective mortality on poverty rates in later life: evidence from a Swedish cohort born in 1926
Authors: Rehnberg Johan , Östergren Olof , Almquist Ylva B , Fritzell Johan , Fors Stefan
Published: August 2024

Aims:

Mortality influences the composition of the surviving population. Higher mortality among low-income individuals than high-income individuals may result in lower poverty rates in the surviving population. The objective of this study was to describe poverty rates for both survivors and deceased individuals in a cohort born in 1926.

Methods:

We used Swedish total population data on the 1926 birth cohort ( n = 83,382), calculating annual poverty rates from 1991 to 2016. We compared poverty rates for the entire cohort, those who died the next year, and those who survived for 5, 10, or 20+ years, measuring the impact of selective mortality as the differences in poverty rates between the cohort and these subgroups.

Results:

Individuals who died the following year had higher poverty rates than the cohort at ages 65–90. Conversely, individuals who survived 5, 10, or 20+ years had lower poverty rates, with relatively small differences (1.1% to 6.9% lower) for survivors of 5 years or longer, and larger differences (26.4% to 32.8% lower) for those who survived 20+ years.

Conclusions:

Despite differences in mortality rates by income, selective mortality had only a modest impact on poverty rates. If life expectancy rises for all, and a more diverse population reaches old age, our findings indicate a potential slight increase in poverty rates due to reduced mortality as a selective factor. These findings emphasise the need to consider mortality selection when addressing future poverty rates in older adults.
Temporal dynamics of interactions in European Administrative Networks: The case of SOLVIT
Authors: Mastenbroek Ellen , Schrama Reini , Martinsen Dorte Sindbjerg
Published: August 2024

This article provides an analysis of the temporal development of interactions within SOLVIT, the European Union's problem-solving internal market network. Adopting an agency-based, rationalist approach, we hypothesize that temporal development depends on cross-border interdependence, institutional homogeneity, SOLVIT centre caseload and Brexit. Testing these hypotheses, we control for members’ resources, perceptions of SOLVIT and endogenous network dynamics. The ensuing model is tested using stochastic actor-oriented models on interactions in 2011 and 2018, thus yielding a panel-data analysis. Our main finding is that SOLVIT interactions are remarkably stable over time. This is mostly due to the strong effect of interdependence, which is rather constant over time. Strikingly, we find no effect for institutional homogeneity, case load and Brexit. In sum, our analysis reveals that European Administrative Networks can develop into stable patterns of interactions, driven by rather structural features of interdependence.
Moral market compliance: How a logic of activism is used to ‘fem wash’ market violence against women in the user-generated pornography market
Authors: McVey Laura , Gurrieri Lauren , Tyler Meagan
Published: August 2024

In turning to the user-generated pornography market and its mainstreaming sexual violence against women, this paper looks to uncover why women are increasingly participating as self-producing content creators. Specifically, we ask how the institutional logics perspective can help uncover more disguised market dynamics encouraging and coercing women to (re)produce their own abuse through self-produced pornographic content creation. With an institutional logics analysis of archival data from five user-generated pornography websites, our findings uncover how social logics act to disguise market logics. We show that a logic of activism is mobilised through two prominent feminist, social justice imperatives of: (i) the representation of diversity and (ii) appeals to environmentalism, which function together to construct a compliant and duty-bound imperative for women’s content creation. In doing so, this paper introduces a concept of moral market compliance: a dark market dynamic that functions to fem wash and (re)produce market violence against women.
Marketing Outcomes and Shareholder Value: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Madathil Johnson C. , Paul Justin , Murugan Nithya
Published: August 2024

One of the most fundamental management questions is how market-based assets affect shareholder value. To provide an answer, we review the extensive literature on marketing outcomes and shareholder value using the Theory, Context, Characteristics, and Methodology (TCCM) framework. The analysis reveals that researchers mainly rely on the efficient market hypothesis, signaling theory, and market-based arguments to theorize the relationship between customer-based market assets and shareholder value. Researchers predominantly collect secondary data and employ event study, persistence methods, and instrumental variables approach to show that marketing actions (such as advertising and brand building) and customer-based market assets (such as customer satisfaction, customer loyalty, and brand equity) positively influence shareholder value. After outlining the findings, future research directions on the relationship between market assets and shareholder value are explored.
Dementia awareness raising forum: Improving attitudes towards people living with dementia
Authors: Read Sheridan T. , Saunders Rosemary , Albrecht Matthew A. , Duggan Ravani
Published: August 2024

Stigma surrounding dementia is a significant issue affecting individuals and communities leading to discrimination towards those living with the condition. However, the changing paradigm in dementia support to living well with dementia can reduce this stigma and improve community attitudes. A community initiative aimed to address this evaluated the impact of a two-hour education forum involving 92 community members. Presentations from experts, including a person with dementia, addressed dementia-related human rights issues and initiatives to live well with dementia. Attendees completed the new Dementia Community Attitudes Questionnaire (DCAQ) aligned with the evolving paradigm of living well with dementia before and after the forum. Participants with prior dementia education had higher initial scores while those without education showed more significant improvements. Almost all DCAQ items showed post-forum score improvements. This community Dementia Awareness Raising Forum provided an opportunity for people to come together and initiate conversations around dementia resulting in more positive community attitudes.
One-year Outcomes of Drug-Eluting Stent Versus Drug-Coated Balloon for Femoropopliteal Artery Lesions: BEASTARS Study Results
Authors: Nakama Tatsuya , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Iwata Yo , Suzuki Kenji , Tobita Kazuki , Hayakawa Naoki , Horie Kazunori , Mori Shinsuke , Obunai Kotaro , Ohki Takao
Published: August 2024

Background:

Previous reports have shown comparable outcomes between drug-eluting stents (DESs) and drug-coated balloons (DCBs) for treating femoropopliteal artery (FPA) lesions; however, DCB outcomes include approximately 10% to 50% bailout stents. Therefore, comparing DESs and DCBs is not simple. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of DESs and DCBs in patients with symptomatic FPA disease.

Materials and Methods:

Using the registries of 7 institutions, we retrospectively reviewed the records of 1356 patients who underwent endovascular therapy for FPA with DESs (n=333; Eluvia, 74.0%; Zilver PTX stent, 26.0%) or DCBs without bailout stents (n=1023; IN.PACT, 67.6%; Lutonix, 32.4%). The primary outcome was the 1-year primary patency comparison between DESs and DCBs, using propensity score matching. The severity of the dissection pattern after predilatation (none or grades A-C) was included as an explanatory variable for matching. Patients with grade D dissections were excluded from the main analysis and assessed independently.

Results:

After matching, the 1-year primary patency between DESs and DCBs was similar (88.8% vs 85.2%, p=0.31). By contrast, perioperative complications were frequent with DES, compared with DCB (5.1% vs 2.2%, p=0.005), and the intravascular ultrasound-evaluated minimum luminal area was significantly larger with DES than with DCB (19 mm2 vs 14 mm2, p<0.001). In the supplemental analysis of lesions with grade D dissection, the 1-year primary patency was significantly higher with DES than with DCB (86.1% vs 55.1%, p=0.014).

Conclusion:

In FPA lesions without severe dissection (ie, no dissection or grade A-C dissection), DESs and DCBs showed comparable 1-year primary patency in matched populations. However, DCBs did not perform well with severe dissection (ie, grade D or more).

Clinical Impact

The results of this study clearly define the appropriate boundaries for the “leaving nothing behind” strategy. Clinicians can now more clearly differentiate between the use of DES and DCB, based on the results of lesion preparation. Further prospective investigations with well-designed trials and larger populations are necessary to confirm these findings.
Risk Factors for Adverse In-Hospital Outcomes in Patients With Traumatic Blunt Thoracic Aortic Injuries Undergoing Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair (TEVAR): An Analysis of the US Nationwide Inpatient Sample
Authors: Chen Po-Sung , Lo Kuo-Jen , Yu Chi-Hsiu , Wang Chi-Feng , Lee Chuin-I
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is a treatment for traumatic blunt thoracic aortic injury (BTAI) with good survival rates and safety. However, there is limited study on the risk factors for in-hospital mortality and complications. This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with poor in-hospital outcomes after TEVAR.

Materials and Methods:

This is a population-based, retrospective observational study. Data of adults ≥20 years admitted for BTAI who received TEVAR were extracted from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database 2005 to 2018. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, and the secondary outcomes were length of stay (LOS) and unfavorable discharge (ie, non-routine discharge, including nursing homes or long-term care facilities). Associations between study variables and in-hospital outcomes were determined using univariate and multivariable logistic and linear regression analyses.

Results:

Data of 1095 participants (representing 5360 hospitalized patients in the United States) were analyzed. Multivariable analysis revealed that older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.02) and having at least 1 perioperative complication (aOR=4.01) were significantly associated with increased risk for in-hospital mortality. Patients with at least 1 perioperative complication (aOR=11.19) had significantly increased odds for prolonged LOS. Risk for unfavorable discharge was significantly increased by older age (aOR=1.02), household income at quartile 2 (aOR=1.58), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) 2 to 3 (aOR=1.66), and having at least 1 complication (aOR=3.94). Complications including perioperative cerebrovascular accident (CVA) (aOR=2.75), venous thromboembolism (VTE) (aOR=2.87), pneumonia (aOR=3.93), sepsis (aOR=4.69), infection (aOR=4.49), respiratory failure (aOR=4.55), mechanical ventilation (aOR=3.27), and acute kidney injury (AKI) (aOR=3.09) significantly predicted prolonged LOS.

Conclusions:

In adults with traumatic BTAI undergoing TEVAR, advanced age and perioperative complications are risk factors for poor in-hospital outcomes. Acute kidney injury, CVA, respiratory failure, and sepsis are strong predictors of prolonged LOS, unfavorable discharge, and in-hospital mortality.

Clinical Impact

The study identifies advanced age and perioperative complications as key risk factors for poor in-hospital outcomes in patients undergoing TEVAR for BTAI. Clinicians should be vigilant in managing these patients, particularly those with comorbidities, to mitigate risks. The findings suggest a need for tailored perioperative care strategies to improve survival rates and reduce complications. This research highlights the critical importance of early identification and intervention in high-risk patients, offering an innovative approach to refining TEVAR protocols and enhancing patient outcomes in trauma care.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Repair of Simple Congenital Heart Defects Using the Right Vertical Infra-Axillary Thoracotomy Approach
Authors: Tran Dien Minh , Tran Vinh Quang , Nguyen Mai Tuan , Mai Duyen Dinh , Doan Anh Vuong , Hoang Son Thanh , Kotani Yasuhiro , Nguyen Truong Ly-Thinh
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of surgical repair for patients diagnosed with simple congenital heart defects (CHD) using the minimally invasive right vertical infra-axillary minithoracotomy (RVIAT) approach.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of consecutive patients who underwent minimally invasive RVIAT for repair of CHD between August 2019 and August 2022. There were 382 patients who underwent 8 primary procedures and were included in this study.

Results:

The median age of the patients was 16.2 (interquartile range [IQR], 7.2 to 41.9) months, and the median weight of the patients was 8.8 (IQR, 6.5 to 14) kg. The preoperative diagnoses were as follows: ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, partial anomalous pulmonary venous return, partial atrioventricular septal defect, cor triatriatum, complete atrioventricular septal defect, and myxoma. The mean aortic cross-clamp time, bypass time, and operation time were 45.4 ± 19.3 min, 65.6 ± 23.1 min, and 154.5 ± 29.7 min, respectively. There was no in-hospital mortality or conversion to median sternotomy. Two patients (0.5%) required early reoperation; 1 due to postoperative bleeding and 1 for permanent pacemaker implantation. Other complications included trivial residual shunts (23 of 382, 6%), pleural effusion (3 of 382, 0.8%), pneumothorax (0.8%), and wound infection (4 of 382, 1%). There were 2 late noncardiac deaths. Late reoperation was performed on 1 patient with progressive aortic valve regurgitation who required aortic valvuloplasty.

Conclusions:

RVIAT is a minimally invasive approach that can be safely performed on patients with simple CHDs. RVIAT may be a good alternative approach for median sternotomy and cardiac intervention.
The Effect of Botulinum Toxin (Masport) Injection Following Internal Urethrotomy of Bulbar Urethral Stricture: A Pilot Study
Authors: Salimi Hojat , Hosseini Jalil , Sharifian Rayka , Fallah Karkan Morteza , Namiranian Nasim , Injinari Nastaran , Ahmadi Basiri Elham , Abouei Saeid , Samadaeegelehkolaee Keshvar , Mirjalili Alimohammad
Published: August 2024

The application of Botulinum toxin (Masport) in urology has a long history. We aimed to assess the effect of local Masport on improvement in patients with urethral stricture by reducing the recurrence of urethral stricture. This pilot study conducted was a double-blind randomized clinical trial with code IRCT20191222045852N1 on patients suffering from urethral stricture. Finally, 28 patients were allocated to intervention and control groups. Twelve patients received intralesional injection with Masport in addition to internal urethrotomy, while 16 patients underwent internal urethrotomy with normal saline. The Cox regression hazard model was used to evaluate the effect of treatment status on recurrence time adjusted for the age, length, and location of the stenosis, cause of the stenosis, and history of previous operations. The effect of treatment type was significant at the .05 level. The past medical history and cause of urethral stricture had a significant impact on relapse-free survival. Also, the improvement in the mean score of the EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and Q-max in the group with Masport was significantly different from the group with normal saline. The internal urethrotomy with intralesional injection of Masport has a better survival prognosis than internal urethrotomy with normal saline group. Therefore, the authors suggest that, given this successful initial clinical trial, consideration be given to future studies involving the use of botox in the management of urethral strictures in conjunction with internal urethrotomy.
Moving Beyond Raising Awareness: Addressing Barriers
Authors: Hendel Katherine R. , Vaughan Elizabeth , Kirschmann Jessica M. , Johnston Craig A.
Published: August 2024

Awareness of issues and health concerns can prompt individuals to change their lifestyle behaviors. In fact, awareness is typically one of the first steps towards behavior change. However, awareness alone does not necessarily initiate or sustain behavioral changes. Specifically, many individuals experience significant barriers that prevent behavior change. Providers can address such barriers through ecological models of behavior change. Including concepts from an ecological model in health care settings can support positive lifestyle behavior change post-diagnosis. Moving beyond awareness alone and addressing barriers to change is an important goal that ultimately increases the probability of change for patients.
Evaluation Meeting as an Element of Increasing the Effectiveness of Field Research in Social Sciences
Authors: Klimek Jordan
Published: August 2024

The increase in the popularity of field research and its digitization meant that the vast majority is carried out in teams. This means that collecting empirical data in the field requires coordination for the correctness of its effectiveness. The article presents the evaluation meeting as a tool for managing field research carried out on a team. The text presents the current challenges of field research and discusses the range of areas requiring coordination. The paper presented how the field research coordinator should organize and conduct the evaluation meeting. The range of problems that can be solved through the evaluation meeting was also presented, indicating its benefits and limitations.
Safety and efficacy of endovenous microwave ablation for treatment of varicose veins of the lower limbs in China: A prospective registered clinical trial
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Lin Yao , Geng Caijuan , Huang Wei , Yang Qifan , He Chunshui , Zeng Wei
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of a new Chinese device using microwave ablation for treating symptomatic great saphenous vein (GSV) varicose veins (VVs).

Methods

This prospective, single-arm, single-center, cohort study investigated the safety and efficacy of endovenous microwave ablation for the treatment of symptomatic VVs. A total of 50 patients with lower limb varicose veins were enrolled from the Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The clinical outcomes and complications were assessed at 1, 6, and 12 months after the procedure. The primary outcome was the occlusion rate of GSV immediately and at 1, 6, and 12 months after the treatment. The secondary outcomes included the venous clinical severity score (VCSS), the chronic venous insufficiency questionnaire 14 items (CIVIQ-14) score, the Aberdeen varicose vein questionnaire (AVVQ) score, and the pain visual analog scale (VAS) score. This study protocol was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT04645771).

Results

In total, 50 limbs from 50 patients (26 female; mean age: 53.45 ± 9.78 years) were treated. A technical success rate of 100% was achieved and no serious adverse events were recorded. During the follow-up period, the occlusion rate of the major/minor saphenous vein trunk remained 100% at 1, 6, and 12 months after surgery except one patient fell off. The median 24-h VAS value was 2 (2,3). The VCSS score, CIVIQ-14 score, and AVVQ score ( p < .05) at 1, 6, and 12 months improved significantly compared with the value preoperative ( p < .05).

Conclusion

EMA was safe and effective for treating varicose veins in the lower limbs, with a high rate of venous trunk occlusion and few complications, thus improving patients’ postoperative quality of life.
On Vulnerability, Biopolitics, and Political Struggles: Some Thoughts on (Post)pandemic Times
Authors: Pele Antonio , Riley Stephen
Published: August 2024

For many of us, the COVID-19 pandemic was experienced as a parenthesis in our individual and collective existences. At the same time, this parenthesis ran the affective spectrum from hope to despair, resilience to sorrow. Importantly, one’s socioeconomic background, gender, and race shaped the impact of the pandemic. While some were able to work online from home, others lost their jobs or had to turn to precarious activities. Some countries were able to manage the pandemic with proactive public health measures; other nations followed a laissez-faire approach with dramatic consequences. The digitalization of our daily lives—in particular digital-based consumption—was accelerated during the pandemic. Most of all, the pandemic exposed the radical vulnerability of our bodies, either directly through infection or infection of our loved ones, with, in many cases, tragic outcomes. This vulnerability was biological since the virus seemed to be—at first—out of control, using our human bodies to replicate; the pandemic exposed the basic traits of our human condition. This vulnerability was also political. Many governments were stultified, or oscillated from one strategy to another. Poor, or reckless, governance undermined the legitimacy of that governance; at the same time, a “warfare” rhetoric often shored up that legitimacy while justifying the erosion of rights.
The Cognitive Architecture of Infant Attachment
Authors: Luo Yuyan , vanMarle Kristy , Groh Ashley M.
Published: August 2024

Meta-analytic evidence indicates that the quality of the attachment relationship that infants establish with their primary caregiver has enduring significance for socioemotional and cognitive outcomes. However, the mechanisms by which early attachment experiences contribute to subsequent development remain underspecified. According to attachment theory, early attachment experiences become embodied in the form of cognitive-affective representations, referred to as internal working models (IWMs), that guide future behavior. Little is known, however, about the cognitive architecture of IWMs in infancy. In this article, we discuss significant advances made in the field of infant cognitive development and propose that leveraging insights from this research has the potential to fundamentally shape our understanding of the cognitive architecture of attachment representations in infancy. We also propose that the integration of attachment research into cognitive research can shed light on the role of early experiences, individual differences, and stability and change in infant cognition, as well as open new routes of investigation in cognitive studies, which will further our understanding of human knowledge. We provide recommendations for future research throughout the article and conclude by using our collaborative research as an example.
Effectiveness of dry needling to treat lateral epicondylosis: A case report
Authors: Short Nathan , Linder Jill , Stump Ethan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study presents the use of dry needling (DN) as an intervention to support functional rehabilitation for an adult diagnosed with lateral epicondylosis.

Methods

A retrospective, single subject, AB design was implemented. A 50-year-old male with a six-month history of dominant left lateral epicondylosis received traditional interventions for 4 weeks (baseline phase; A) followed by the same interventions with the addition of DN (intervention phase; B). The QuickDASH assessment, numeric rating scale (NRS) for pain, grip strength (elbow flexed and neutral), and Maudsley’s test were used as measures of effectiveness along with patient self-report of ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLS), instrumental ADLs, work, and leisure occupations.

Results

The patient made minimal progress for the initial 4 weeks of traditional treatment. There were no changes to his initial pain rating of 7/10 on the NRS, left hand grip strength (67 lbs.), or initial QuickDASH score. DN was initiated at week five with a reduction in pain from 7/10 to 2/10 from weeks six to eight. He was discharged at week 12 with no pain, a score of 0/100 on the QuickDASH, non-painful grip of 83 lbs., and a self-report of the ability to perform all ADLs, instrumental ADLs, work, and leisure occupations independently.

Conclusions

Dry needling appears to have been an effective intervention when integrated with a holistic approach for an individual with chronic lateral epicondylosis. More research is needed to evaluate dry needling as an intervention to support functional rehabilitation with a larger sample size and randomization.
Using personal health records for medication continuity during transition of care: An observational study
Authors: Francis Martina , Francis Peter , Makeham Meredith , Baysari Melissa T , Patanwala Asad E , Penm Jonathan
Published: August 2024

Background: National Personal Health Records (PHRs) have been proposed to improve the transfer of medication-related information during transition of care. Objective: To evaluate the concordance between the medications captured in the Australian national PHR, My Health Record (MyHR), and the pharmacist obtained best possible medication history (BPMH) for patients upon hospital admission. Method: This prospective observational study used a convenience sample of hospital patients. For newly admitted patients, the investigating pharmacist obtained a BPMH and then compared it to the medication list captured in MyHR. Upon comparison, the medications were categorised into either complete match, partial match or mismatch. Medications with a complete or partial match were grouped together. Medications with deviations were then assessed for risk based on their potential consequence, and reported descriptively. A multivariable logistic regression was conducted to assess the factors associated with a drug being mismatched. Results: A total of 82 patients were recruited, with a cumulative total of 1,207 medications documented. Of the 1,207 medications, 714 (59.2%) medications were documented as a complete/partial match. The remaining 493 (40.8%) medications were mismatched. Of the 493 mismatched medications, 442 (89.7%) were deemed low-risk deviations and 51 (10.3%) were deemed high-risk. A medication was more likely to be mismatched, rather than completely/partially matched, if it was a regular non-prescription medication, or “when-required” prescription medication, or “when required” non-prescription medication, or if it was administered parenterally. Conclusion: National PHRs may be a secondary source to either confirm a patient’s medication history or be used as a starting point for a BPMH.
Enhancing nursing home quality through electronic health record implementation
Authors: Pradhan Rohit , Dayama Neeraj , Morris Michael , Elliott Kimberly , Felix Holly
Published: August 2024

Background: The quality of care in nursing homes (NHs) in the United States has long been a matter of policy concern. Although electronic health records (EHRs) are argued to improve quality, implementation has lagged due to various factors such as financial constraints and limited research on their impact on NH quality. Objective: This study examined the relationship between EHR implementation and NH quality using Donabedian’s structure-process-outcome model. Method: Data on EHR implementation were collected via a 2018 survey of all Federally certified Arkansas NHs ( n = 223). Of the 63 responding NHs, 48 reported EHR implementation. Survey data were merged with secondary sources such as Certification and Survey Provider Enhanced Reporting. A total of 744 NH-years for the period 2008–2020 were included in the final sample. A pre–post negative binomial panel data regression was used to examine the relationship between EHR implementation (dichotomous variable) and NH deficiencies (dependent count variable) with facility/community-level control variables. Results were reported as incidence rate ratios (IRR). Results: NHs that had implemented EHR experienced an 18% reduction in the rate of deficiencies compared to those without EHR systems (IRR = 0.82, 95% CI [0.70, 0.99], p = 0.035). Conclusion: EHR implementation had a favourable impact on NH quality. Implications: Past research suggests that higher NH quality may be associated with improved financial performance. Therefore, EHR implementation has the potential to address two critical challenges: enhancing care quality and improving financial outcomes. However, government financial incentives may be necessary to address the high-cost of implementing EHR systems.
Hotstar: Revolutionizing the Indian entertainment market with digital technologies
Authors: Bargavi R , Jucunda M Maria Evelyn
Published: August 2024

The present case study investigates into how Hotstar, a well-known online entertainment platform, has altered and changed the Indian entertainment industry. The case study explores the history of Hotstar, from its founding to its expansion into international markets, highlighting the technological innovations and calculated moves that have propelled the company’s success. This Case Study looks at how Hotstar collects content, enhances user experience, and makes money. It also highlights how Hotstar is changing sports broadcasting and taking on traditional broadcasters. Hotstar is well-positioned for future expansion because to its commitment to innovation and customer-centricity, even in the face of financial, regulatory, and competitive challenges. By examining Hotstar’s past and assessing the key factors that contributed to its success, this essay provides insights into the digital entertainment market and illuminates likely future developments in the space. The study also investigates Hotstar’s current financial and competitive challenges, highlighting the need for fresh approaches.
Human urinary myiasis due to larvae of Telmatoscopus (Clogmia) Albipunctata in Morocco: A case report
Authors: El Omri Ghassane , Taghouan Anas , Rais Hamza , Snoussi Malak , Naoui Hafida , Heddat Abdeljalil
Published: August 2024

This is the first case of urinary myiasis in the Morocco region caused by Clogmia albipunctata. Also known as Telmatoscopus albipunctata, is a fly species in the Psychodidae family. These flies thrive in unsanitary environments like bathrooms and sewers. Transmission occurs when flies lay eggs on moist surfaces such as urogenital discharge. The larvae hatch and can traverse the urethra, entering the bladder. Clogmia albipunctata larvae and adults decompose organic matter and pose health risks as vectors of pathogens and allergens. In our case, larvae were discharged through urine by a 46-year-old female cleaner from a low socioeconomic background who presented with intermittent emission of worms in her urine. She had mild hypogastric tenderness and a history of lower urinary tract symptoms without fever. Initially misdiagnosed with cystitis, her symptoms persisted, leading to the discovery of small, mobile vermiform organisms in her urine. Living in fly-infested conditions, she had no recent travel or medical history. Urine analysis confirmed the presence of Clogmia albipunctata larvae, diagnosing urinary myiasis. Treated with ivermectin and hydration, her symptoms resolved within a week. A follow-up cystoscopy showed no larvae, confirming a complete cure.
Behavioral marker-based predictive modeling of functional status for older adults with subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment: Study protocol
Authors: Kang Bada , Ma Jinkyoung , Jeong Innhee , Yoon Seolah , Kim Jennifer Ivy , Heo Seok-jae , Oh Sarah Soyeon
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study describes a research protocol for a behavioral marker-based predictive model that examines the functional status of older adults with subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment.

Methods

A total of 130 older adults aged ≥65 years with subjective cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment will be recruited from the Dementia Relief Centers or the Community Service Centers. Data on behavioral and psychosocial markers (e.g. physical activity, mobility, sleep/wake patterns, social interaction, and mild behavioral impairment) will be collected using passive wearable actigraphy, in-person questionnaires, and smartphone-based ecological momentary assessments. Two follow-up assessments will be performed at 12 and 24 months after baseline. Mixed-effect machine learning models: MErf, MEgbm, MEmod, and MEctree, and standard machine learning models without random effects [random forest, gradient boosting machine] will be employed in our analyses to predict functional status over time.

Results

The results of this study will be fundamental for developing tailored digital interventions that apply deep learning techniques to behavioral data to predict, identify, and aid in the management of functional decline in older adults with subjective cognitive decline and mild cognitive impairment. These older adults are considered the optimal target population for preventive interventions and will benefit from such tailored strategies.

Conclusions

Our study will contribute to the development of self-care interventions that utilize behavioral data and machine learning techniques to provide automated analyses of the functional decline of older adults who are at risk for dementia.
Negotiating in the metaverse—it is more than just avatars
Authors: Hablutzel Margo Lynn
Published: August 2024

In 2020, many companies had to adapt to virtual negotiations. Some did so more effectively than others. Now that in-person negotiation is possible again, people can use virtual negotiation spaces to save money, increase efficiency, support your team members, and improve the process. However, many companies do not know how to use the virtual spaces effectively. This article, written by a person who used virtual opportunities to negotiate long before the pandemic, offers advice and recommendations so that you can use the metaverse while preparing for, and undertaking, negotiations. From establishing "safe rooms" for document storage and sidebar conversations to "bio breaks" and decorating a virtual negotiation room, whether you use a single-space online system or a multi-floor virtual building, this article provides elements to consider and reminders to follow. You also receive caution about some of the new artificial intelligence assistants that may require legal or other approvals to use.
Community Health Centers Uptake of Telemedicine During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Trends, Barriers, and Successful Strategies
Authors: Holderness Heather , Baron Andrea , Hodes Tahlia , Marino Miguel , O’Malley Jean , Danna Maria , Cohen Deborah J. , Huguet Nathalie
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To describe telemedicine use patterns and understand clinic’s approaches to shifting care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

We used electronic health record data from 203 community health centers across 13 states between 01/01/2019 and 6/31/2021 to describe trends in telemedicine visit rates over time. Qualitative data were collected from 13 of those community health centers to understand factors influencing adoption and implementation of telemedicine.

Results:

Most clinics in our sample were in urban areas (n = 176) and served a majority of uninsured and publicly insured patients (12.8% and 44.4%, respectively) across racial and ethnic minority groups (16.6% Black and 29.3% Hispanic). During our analysis period there was a 791% increase in telemedicine visits from before the pandemic (.06% pre- vs 47.5% during). A latent class growth analysis was used to examine differences in patterns of adoption of telemedicine across the 203 CHCs. The model resulted in 6 clusters representing various levels of telemedicine adoption. A mixed methods approach streamlined these clusters into 4 final groups. Clinics that reported rapid adoption of telemedicine attributed this change to leadership prioritization of telemedicine, robust quality improvement processes (eg, using PDSA processes), and emphasis on training and technology support.

Conclusions:

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine adoption rates varied across clinics. Our study highlight that organizational factors contributed to the clinic’s ability to rapidly uptake and use telemedicine services throughout the pandemic. These approaches could inform future non-pandemic practice change and care delivery.
Additive Benefits of Individual, Relational, and Community Factors on Physical- and Mental-Health Trajectories Among Black Americans
Authors: Adesogan Olutosin , Lavner Justin A. , Carter Sierra E. , Beach Steven R. H.
Published: August 2024

Black Americans have demonstrated significant resilience in the face of stress caused by systemic oppression. This resilience is likely to stem from several factors across socioecological levels, including those internal to the individual (assets) and those external to the individual (resources), but existing work has yet to consider these within an integrated framework. To address this gap, in the current study, we used longitudinal data from 692 Black adults living in the rural southeastern United States to examine the univariate and multivariate effects of individual (religiosity and spirituality), relational (romantic partner support, general social support), and community (neighborhood support) factors on trajectories of depressive symptoms, sleep problems, and general health. Findings revealed univariate and multivariate effects on health, providing evidence of additive benefits from these assets and resources. Greater consideration of strengths and supports across socioecological systems may help inform enhanced preventive interventions for and promote health equity among Black Americans.