bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustical Survey and Finite Element Analyses of Late Baroque Mandolin
Authors: Quintavalla Martino , Gabrielli Federico , Canevari Claudio
Published: March 2024

Replicating ancient musical instruments is a method to protect fragile originals from extensive playing. In the case of stringed instruments, replicas are generally realized by luthiers using identical wood species and geometry, according to dimensional surveys. Although this procedure yields a highly similar visual aspect, the intrinsic variability of wood properties does not ensure an identical sound. Therefore, acoustic surveys are a fundamental step in reproducing the sounds of original instruments. In this work, we report the acoustical survey of a late baroque mandolin preserved at Museo degli Strumenti Musicali del Castello Sforzesco di Milano. The survey was conducted using portable equipment and included measurements of the radiated sound spectrum, admittance, monopole mobility, and mode shape assignment. Finite Element Analyses (FEA) enabled the assignment of mode shapes and quantification of the effect of a crack on the structural integrity and acoustics of the instrument. This study has laid the foundation for the creation of a replica that, beyond the visual aspect, would resemble the original instrument in terms of sound to the extent feasible.
One Label Doesn’t Fit All: Self-Labeling Practices Within the Chinese Immigrant Community in Canada
Authors: Yim Odilia , Kang Sonia K.
Published: March 2024

Ethnic minority populations, such as the Chinese and other racial minority communities, have traditionally been the targets of physical and social harassment. The onset of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has reignited the racism, violence, and xenophobia faced by individuals of Chinese descent across North America. As a result, there is now a spotlight on the Chinese immigrant experience and the capacity for these individuals to authentically communicate and present their identities, specifically through the use of self-labels. In a mixed-methods investigation, we assessed the preferred self-labels among a sample of the Chinese population in Canada and sought to uncover the meanings imbued in the labels they use to describe themselves across different contexts. In addition, the relationships between label preferences and measures of ethnic identity and language were examined. Although bicultural labels (e.g., Chinese Canadian, Canadian Chinese, Hong Kong Canadian, etc.) were the most preferred, there was a variety of labels used, suggesting a more complex meaning in the choice of self-labels. Implications for identity and self-categorization are discussed.
Factors Associated With Self-Reported Overdose Reversals Using Naloxone in Little Rock, Arkansas: Implications for Harm Reduction Service Delivery in the US South
Authors: Pro George , Richoux Camille , Bolt Mackenzie , Kincade Amber , White Rahem , Kasper Clay , Zaller Nick
Published: March 2024

Background. The Central Arkansas Harm Reduction Project (CAHR) is located in Little Rock, Arkansas, and is the only harm reduction service provider in the city. This quality improvement study was conducted to inform harm reduction programming decisions. Methods. We used CAHR data among clients who reported methamphetamine and/or opioid use (2021-2022; N = 459). We used an explanatory mixed methods design to identify factors associated with self-reported overdose reversals using naloxone. Results. The average number of reversals was 3.27. Nearly all clients (95%) reported methamphetamine use. The use of both methamphetamine and opioids (vs. opioids only; [Formula: see text] = 0.26, p = .04) was positively associated with a higher number of reversals. Our qualitative analysis provided additional context around methamphetamine and overdose, including leveraging community members connected to large networks of people who use drugs. Conclusion. Future CAHR initiatives will focus on expanding public health education around naloxone and fentanyl for a population increasingly using methamphetamine.
Foreign Agents? Public Attitudes Toward Nongovernmental Organizations in a Backsliding Democracy
Authors: Efrat Asif , Yair Omer
Published: March 2024

In a backsliding democracy, antidemocratic politicians often vilify nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and impose restrictions that make it harder for them to form, advocate, or obtain funding. Do citizens consider NGOs as a threat? Do they support regulatory measures to restrict NGO activities? We focus on two factors that may influence citizens’ attitudes toward NGOs: these groups’ reliance on foreign funding and their ideological leaning. In a preregistered survey experiment in Israel, we find that citizens perceive foreign-funded NGOs as slightly more threatening, but they are not more likely to support restrictions on these groups than on groups relying on local funding. The ideological bent of the NGOs has a much stronger effect: People perceive NGOs on the other side of the political aisle as more threatening and support restrictions on their activity. Antidemocratic leaders might exploit this type of partisan-motivated reasoning to silence civil society.
What Explains Interest Group Prominence in Parliamentary Speech? Policy Agenda, Partisanship, or Conflict Expansion
Authors: Halpin Darren R. , Graham Timothy , Fraussen Bert , Grömping Max , Zhou Zhiheng
Published: March 2024

Gaining the attention of legislators in a crowded advocacy landscape is a key dilemma for organized interests. Yet, there has not been a great deal of direct analysis of whether groups are indeed recognized as important by politicians in the context of them advancing political arguments. In this article, we examine under what conditions interest groups achieve prominence among political elites. Drawing on a supervised machine learning approach to code prominence from legislative speech, we exploit variations in levels of prominence for the entire Australian interest groups system. We find that prominence is highly concentrated and that it covaries with the need to align with prevailing policy agendas and the logic of conflict expansion. Conversely, we do not find evidence of a strong partisan or ideological dimension of prominence. This contributes to our understanding of the responsiveness and representativeness of democratic political systems in which the interest group sector is expected to funnel public preferences into policymaking.
Event-based iterative learning predictive control under two-dimensional framework
Authors: Zhang Guangchen , Gao Han
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we pay attention to event-based iterative learning predictive control for the iterative learning system affected by network delays under two-dimensional (2D) framework. First, the well-posed iterative learning predictive system is introduced to depict the lost data induced by network delays. Subsequently, the prediction-batch–based event-triggered protocol is formulated to help alleviate the adverse influence of network delays. Based on these preparations, we attempt to solve iterative learning predictive control by virtue of the 2D system theorem. To this end, the 2D Roesser-type predictive control model is carried out to describe the iterative learning predictive system, and then, the predictive control problem is considered for such 2D Roesser predictive model. The corresponding stability criteria and controller design are achieved, which also realize the tracking control of the iterative learning system. To conclude this paper, the examples are examined to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach and controller design.
Analysis of the cognitive function of myths about gender violence: the case of Rocío Carrasco / Análisis de la función cognitiva de los mitos sobre la violencia de género: el caso de Rocío Carrasco
Authors: Martínez-Sánchez Celia A. , Romero-Sánchez Mónica , Megías Jesús L.
Published: March 2024

This study analyses the cognitive function of myths about partner violence against women in the social perception of a case that caused a media frenzy in Spain: the documentary story ‘Rocío Carrasco. Contar la verdad para seguir viva’ (‘Rocío Carrasco: Telling the Truth to Stay Alive’). We studied the relationship between these myths and the credibility and blame attributed to Rocío Carrasco. We also tested different explanatory mechanisms of these associations: the warmth/competence qualities of the victim and the different motivations attributed to her in the documentary (monetary, the quest for justice, revenge and emotional recovery). The results showed that the participants ( N = 295) who adhered more to the myths attributed less credibility and more blame to Rocío Carrasco. Moreover, we found that her perceived warmth (but not her competence) and the attribution of different motivations mediated these relationships. Using a current media case, these findings enable us to learn more about both the cognitive function of myths about the perception of gender violence and possible explanatory mechanisms.
The enforcement infrastructure of public information campaigns: Australia’s No Way campaign, colonial logics, and the production of value
Authors: Coddington Kate
Published: March 2024

Despite little evidence of efficacy, public information campaigns have been a popular strategy for deterring migration. Advertising campaigns to dissuade would-be migrants from leaving home or seeking asylum are increasingly prevalent around the world, and Australia has devoted millions of dollars to these campaigns. Perhaps the most famous is the campaign launched in 2014, with the message: “No Way. You will not make Australia home.” In this article, I develop the concept of enforcement infrastructure to illustrate the relationships, technologies, actors, and policies that together facilitate enforcement of Australia’s borders and produce campaigns such as the “No Way” campaign. Just as infrastructure facilitates the production of value in other contexts, so too does the creation of enforcement infrastructure produce different types of value in the context of enforcement. Mapping the enforcement infrastructure highlights the different types of value produced by this constellation of actors, from profitable market research to reinforcing colonial logics of exclusion.
Effects of prolonged face mask use among patients with hypertension or diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: He Weiwei , Liu Yang , Zou Zhaoting , Cheng Chunbao , Wang Wenjing , Huang Zhixin , Wu Guannan , Zhu Weiquan , Sun Huiming
Published: March 2024

Objective

We aimed to investigate the impacts of prolonged mask use on patients with hypertension or diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This study included patients with hypertension or diabetes who visited the outpatient department of Nanjing Yimin Hospital between 1 February 2022 and 31 January 2023. We compared the change in blood pressure (BP) and fasting plasma glucose in patients with hypertension or diabetes and adjustments to treatment between the group with prolonged mask-wearing group (≥20 hours/week) and the control group (<20 hours/week).

Results

Compared with the control group of hypertensive patients, the prolonged mask-wearing group had significantly higher diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). These two groups had had similar DBP and MAP 1 year earlier. Likewise, the prolonged mask-wearing group of patients with diabetes had a greater need than the control group for upgraded treatment to reach their therapeutic goals.

Conclusions

This study suggests that prolonged mask use by patients with hypertension or diabetes has negative effects on hypertension and plasma glucose control. BP and plasma glucose monitoring should be improved in these patient populations and their treatment should be adjusted in a timely manner.
Correlation between genetic alterations and clinicopathological features of papillary thyroid carcinomas
Authors: Shang Shixuan , Yang Huimin , Chen Meixiang , Wu Jin , Shi Xianjun , Li Xiangqin , Feng Ningning , Zheng Zhaoqing , Liu Hongmei , Zhang Yunzhi
Published: March 2024

Objective

To investigate the correlations between multigene alterations and clinicopathological features in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) samples.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 111 cytological specimens of thyroid nodules, including 74 PTC samples and 37 benign samples, were analyzed using a 22-gene mutation assay employing next-generation sequencing. Clinicopathological information was retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

Gene alterations were associated with a higher rate of lymph node metastasis (LNM) and thyroid capsular invasion, a lower rate of coexisting Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the classical PTC subtype, and younger age (<45 years). Among the 22 genes tested, the BRAF mutation rates showed a significant difference between the PTC and benign groups. In the subgroup analysis, younger age (odds ratio = 12.512, 95% confidence interval: 3.126–50.087) was an independent risk factor for LNM. In further analyses, BRAF mutation was significantly associated with LNM in the older subgroup (age ≥ 45 years), suggesting that the BRAF mutation test has greater value for determining PTC prognosis in the older age group.

Conclusions

Our findings will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between gene mutations and PTC and may contribute to improved PTC management.
Perioperative Intravenous Dexamethasone Significantly Reduces Postoperative Opioid Requirement and Nausea After Unilateral Elective Hip Arthroscopy: A Randomized Double-blinded Placebo-controlled Trial
Authors: Kaiser Dominik , Hoch Armando , Dimitriou Dimitris , Groeber Tanja , Bomberg Hagen , Aguirre José A. , Eichenberger Urs , Zingg Patrick O.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Previous studies have shown that dexamethasone has a positive effect on postoperative pain control, opioid consumption, nausea, and vomiting and length of hospital stay after arthroplasty surgery.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to assess whether adding perioperative dexamethasone to our current pain regimen after hip arthroscopy is more effective than a placebo. It was hypothesized that dexamethasone would reduce postoperative pain, reduce opioid consumption, improve subjective pain and nausea scores, and reduce the number of vomiting events.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 50 patients requiring unilateral elective hip arthroscopy were randomized to receive intravenous dexamethasone immediately before induction of anesthesia and at 8 am on the first postoperative day (2 ×12 mg) or a placebo (sodium chloride 0.9%). The patient, the surgeons, the treating anesthesiologist, and the involved nursing and physical therapy personnel were blinded to group assignment. The primary outcome was postoperative pain, and secondary outcomes were opioid consumption and nausea scores—assessed using a translated revised version of the American Pain Society Patient Outcome Questionnaire 6 hours postoperatively and on days 1 and 2—and vomiting events. A clinical follow-up was performed 12 weeks postoperatively to assess adverse events.

Results:

The mean age at inclusion was 29 years in both groups. Postoperative pain levels did not differ significantly in most instances. Opioid requirements during the hospitalization in the dexamethasone group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (31.96 ± 20.56 mg vs 51.43 ± 38 mg; P = .014). Significantly fewer vomiting events were noted in the dexamethasone group (0.15 ± 0.59 vs 0.65 ± 0.91; P = .034). Descriptive data and surgical parameters did not differ significantly.

Conclusion:

Perioperative intravenous dexamethasone significantly reduced postoperative opioid consumption by 40% without compromising pain level and safety, as no corticosteroid-related side effects were observed. Dexamethasone may be a valuable adjuvant to a multimodal systemic pain regimen after hip arthroscopy.

Registration:

NCT04610398 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).
Current Research Informing the Conceptualization of STEM Interventions for Students With LD: An Introduction to the Special Series
Authors: De La Paz Susan , van Garderen Delinda
Published: March 2024

This article introduces and describes the studies that are part of the thematic special series aimed at exploring research questions for improving learning outcomes for students with learning disabilities (SLD) in science and mathematics. Special educators have the requisite knowledge and skills to meaningfully include these students in studies that focus on important disciplinary understandings; yet, to date, relatively few special educators develop and validate interventions for students with high incidence disabilities to learn about science or mathematical practices. Given the fact that most SLD receive instruction in the general education classroom, where there are reforms that call for increased rigor in instruction and meaningful problem-solving for all students, it is imperative that SLD receive effective supports for deep content learning. We hope the current articles spark readers’ interests in adding to this emerging body of research and invite others to build on the ideas shared in the special series.
Services for Latino Family Dementia Caregivers: Is the Workforce Prepared?
Authors: Martinez Iveris L. , Acosta Gonzalez Elaine , Black Leah
Published: March 2024

The American healthcare system is ill-fitted to meet the needs of the growing population with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementias (ADRD) and their caregivers, which disproportionately affects Latinos. This paper describes the caregiving process for Latino patients with ADRD from the perspective of caregivers and service providers to reveal service areas in need of improvement. Ten providers and 24 Latino caregivers were interviewed through the Miami-Dade County Aging Network. Interviews were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Five themes emerged: lack of social service connectivity, case management challenges, unmet mental health needs, language barriers, and the need for alternative service models. Our analysis indicates insufficient training and the need to improve dementia competencies, support strategies, and understanding of cultural nuances among service providers. These findings can help inform the development of a required ADRD provider education curriculum that incorporates cultural competency training to improve the quality and effectiveness of care.
Special Educators’ Training and Preparedness to Write Individualized Education Programs
Authors: Blasko Alyssa , Morin Kristi , Lindström Esther R. , Murphy Grace , Squitieri Michelle D.
Published: March 2024

Over the last decade, there has been ample evidence reporting the lack of high-quality and compliant Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) in the United States. This problem has many consequences, including poor student outcomes and failure to follow legal due process. Despite these consequences, research has not thoroughly examined the perspectives and needs of special educators on IEP development or the role of pre-service training on special educators’ ability to write high-quality, compliant IEPs. To address this gap, this study surveys 218 Pennsylvania special educators to examine their perspectives on the sufficiency of their pre-service training to write high-quality IEPs. Data on the types of training and support special educators need to successfully write IEPs were also gathered. Results provide information on needed teacher preparation program components, supports for in-service special educators when writing IEPs, and areas for future professional development. Implications and future directions for training on writing IEPs are discussed.
A Cross-national Study of Life Satisfaction: Demographics, Cognitive Age, Materialism, Fashion Innovativeness and Health  Satisfaction as Correlates
Authors: Lee Keun S. , Mathur Anil , Zhang Yong
Published: March 2024

This study examined the relationship between life satisfaction (LS) and its correlates, which included key demographic (age, education and family size) and psychographic (cognitive age, materialism, fashion innovativeness and health satisfaction) variables, with samples from respondents in South Korea ( N = 464), China ( N = 321) and the United States ( N = 265 ). This article represents the first attempt to examine these variables across the three countries to gain important insights into cultural variations and similarities in the determinants of LS. Two-stage regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between LS as the dependent variable and demographic and psychographic variables as the independent variables. In the first stage, data from the three countries were combined, and all independent variables and two dummy variables for possible country effects were entered into a regression model. In the second stage, separate regression models were independently fitted for the three countries. The findings of this study indicate that, for all three countries, LS was not related to age and family size but was significantly related to materialism, fashion innovativeness and health satisfaction. Health satisfaction was the most significant predictor in all three countries. LS was related to cognitive age only in South Korea, whereas LS was linked to education only in the United States. The results of the study and its business and research implications are discussed.
Internationalisation of Higher Education in Ethiopia: A Strategic Process?
Authors: Gonfa Dejen K. , Gibbons Pat , Sugrue Ciaran , Kuma Berhanu
Published: March 2024

The internationalisation of higher education (IHE) has become a central agenda of Ethiopia's higher education institutions (HEIs). However, there is a dearth of information on whether IHE is an intentional and integrated endeavour. A framework is developed to investigate how strategic the internationalisation process is in public universities in Ethiopia, focusing on intentionality and integration. Data were collected using a survey from eleven public universities, semi-structured interviews with twenty-one key informants, as well as document analysis. The findings reveal striking similarities across universities in how IHE has been undertaken. Though there are promising indicators that IHE is becoming an intentional process, little attention is given to integrating IHE into institutions’ purpose, functions, and delivery. To maximise the benefits of IHE, universities need to establish educational systems aligned with their designations (research, applied science, comprehensive, and science and technology), integrate IHE into these systems, and continuously manage it across all HEIs.
Preschool Teachers’ Perceptions and Use of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention Strategies: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Investigation
Authors: D’Agostino Sophia R. , Frost Kyle M.
Published: March 2024

Preschool classrooms serve children of varying abilities, including those who may benefit from social communication intervention. Research supports the use of naturalistic developmental behavioral interventions (NDBI) to effectively increase the social communication skills of young children. Yet, little is known about preschool teachers’ perspectives on and use of NDBI strategies. The purpose of this explanatory sequential mixed methods study was to integrate data from classroom observation, teacher self-report, and qualitative interviews to understand training and support needs for increasing implementation of NDBIs in a preschool classroom context. Eight preschool teachers provided a recording of an intervention session, self-reported their use of NDBI strategies, and participated in an interview to discuss their experiences. Results indicate preschool teacher participants perceive NDBI strategies favorably although they may need targeted support understanding and using NDBI strategies. We discuss implications for practice that may support increased use of NDBIs by preschool teachers.
A Granular Approach to Optimal and Fair Patient Placement in Hospital Emergency Departments
Authors: Canellas Maureen M , Pachamanova Dessislava A , Perakis Georgia , Skali Lami Omar , Tsiourvas Asterios
Published: March 2024

Prolonged emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) is associated with detrimental effects on patient care quality and outcomes. There is evidence that certain groups of patients experience longer LOS based on their gender or race, especially with regard to the part of LOS that is attributable to waiting to be seen by a clinician. This work tackles the patient prioritization and placement aspects of ED operations with the goal of improving throughput and wait time in a fair, equitable way. We present a novel Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) predictive-prescriptive formulation that incorporates a breakdown of predicted patient ED LOS into actionable pieces. We incorporate considerations for fairness and reformulate the MILP formulation into a compact and computationally tractable formulation that can be solved efficiently in real time. To deal with uncertainty, we propose a sampling-based solution, and provide provable guarantees regarding its convergence, stability and sample complexity. The proposed solution increases the throughput of the ED by [Formula: see text] and decreases the average wait time by [Formula: see text] compared to current hospital practice. In addition, the method is near-optimal in terms of throughput, and produces high-quality solutions in terms of average wait time compared to a clairvoyant oracle. Our proposed approach demonstrates desirable properties when it comes to fairness in patient prioritization, illustrating a path for addressing hidden biases in patient ED wait times and hospital operations as a whole. This work was conducted in collaboration with a large US academic medical center. Data from more than 40,000 patient visits were used to shape and evaluate the predictive-prescriptive models. An important practical contribution is translating a complex algorithm’s output into recommendations that can be operationalized in the context of existing processes in the ED. Specifically, we develop an interpretable metamodel that is trained to mimic the predictive-prescriptive algorithm’s decisions and provides a transparent set of rules for patient placement. The method will be used by the hospital to improve patient flow and quality of care as well as to support more fair and consistent bed allocation decisions.
Selinexor for the treatment of patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Babar Anum , Babar Maham , Zubair Hina , Shahid Arzu , Rafique Sana , Bano Maimona , Waleed Madeeha Subhan , Khan Maimoona , Inayat Arslan , Safi Danish
Published: March 2024

Objective

Multiple myeloma cells resist standard therapies due to overexpression of the transport protein, exportin 1. Selinexor is a novel drug that targets the Exportin 1 protein in these cells.

Data source

A comprehensive search was done, and data showing the efficacy and safety of selinexor in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma was collected using PubMed, Google Scholar, and clincialtrials.gov.

Data summary

Results from the clinical trials STORM, BOSTON, and STOMP were included. Parts I and II of the STORM trial revealed a progression-free survival (PFS) of 4.7 and 3.7 months, a median duration of response of 6.2 and 4.4 months, and an overall survival of 7.3 and 8.4 months, respectively. BOSTON trial's SVd arm (selinexor, bortezomib, and dexamethasone) had a median follow-up period of 13.2 months and an mPFS of 13.93 months. The Vd arm (bortezomib and dexamethasone) had a median follow-up duration of 16.5 months and an mPFS of 9.46 months. The STOMP trial is still active and has limited data available. The SKd arm (selinexor, carfilzomib, and dexamethasone) reported an overall response rate of 66.7% in patients with triple refractory multiple myeloma, and 82% in patients with high-risk cytogenetics. The SPd arm (selinexor, pomalidomide, and dexamethasone) shows an overall response rate of 54.30% in pomalidomide naïve-nonrefractory, 35.70% in pomalidomide refractory and 60% in those dosed at RP2D. SRd arm (selinexor, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone) shows an overall response rate of 91.7% in lenalidomide naïve and 12.5% in lenalidomide refractory patients. SVd (selinexor, bortezomib, and dexamethasone) arm reported an overall response rate of 63% in all patients while the SDd arm (selinexor, daratumumab, and dexamethasone) showed an overall response rate of 69%.

Conclusion

To improve the outcome of patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma, it is critical to develop new therapies, assess potential therapeutic synergies, and overcome drug resistance by determining the efficacy of multiple myeloma therapies across multiple disease subgroups.
Pharmacist's role in the management of drug–drug interactions caused by nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in COVID-19 oncohematology patients
Authors: Guzmán Cordero Carlos , Sáez-Torres de Vicente María , Jiménez Espinosa Álvaro , Gago Sánchez Ana Isabel
Published: March 2024

Objective

New drugs developed for SARS-CoV-2 infection, such as nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (NMV/r), represent a potential for oncohematology patients, but also pose a challenge in managing the potential clinically relevant drug–drug interactions (pDDIs) that may arise. The aim of this study is to assess the frequency, severity, and pharmacist detection of pDDIs.

Methods

This prospective, observational, study spanned 8 months, involving 42 oncohematology patients prescribed NMV/r in a tertiary-level hospital. A Board Certified oncology pharmacist assessed pDDIs using three databases and made recommendations to prescribing physicians. Linear and logistic regression analyses were employed to explore the relationship between prescribed drugs and pDDIs.

Results

Clinically relevant pDDIs were detected in 76.2% of patients, with 18.1% of all medications involved in drug–drug interactions (DDIs). The most common drugs implicated were atorvastatin and imatinib. Micromedex® identified 63.3% of interactions as major severity, while Lexicomp® and University of Liverpool classifications were less restrictive. Pharmacists prevented most DDIs from reaching patients through different interventions, including treatment monitoring (44.2%), discontinuation (36.5%), and dose reduction (17.3%).

Conclusion

This study highlights the high prevalence of clinically significant pDDIs in oncohematology patients receiving NMV/r for COVID-19. Pharmacists, as integral members of the healthcare team, played a crucial role in detecting, categorizing, and mitigating these interactions. The results underscore the need for comprehensive studies to evaluate the impact of pharmacist-led interventions in optimizing drug therapy and enhancing patient safety in this vulnerable population.
Impact of a College Sexual Violence Prevention Program on Condom Use: A Mediation Analysis
Authors: Laterra Anne , Reidy Dennis , Salazar Laura
Published: March 2024

College-age students are disproportionately impacted by sexually transmitted infections. Campus programs that reduce sexual violence have received recent investment, are increasingly common, and may offer a platform to increase condom use, but this has not yet been investigated. We explore this novel question through a secondary analysis of a randomized control trial of RealConsent, a web-based, sexual assault program for college women, on three college campuses. By estimating single and multiple-mediator models we examine the relationships between study assignment, the hypothesized mediators: self-efficacy to discuss safer sex, and clarity and assertiveness in sexual communication, and consistent condom use at follow-up. In the single mediator models, self-efficacy for safer sex communication (aOR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03–1.19, p = .004), assertiveness in sexual communication (aOR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.11, p =.004), and clarity in sexual communication (aOR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.00–1.05, p = .026) demonstrated significant direct effects on condom use. No statistically significant relationships between RealConsent and the mediators, nor indirect effects were found. In the multimediator model, there were no statistically significant associations identified. Self-efficacy, assertiveness, and clarity in communication about sex may have a positive impact on condom use but we did not find evidence that RealConsent impacted these mediators and thus no mediated effect was identified. Additional research is needed to develop and assess college-based sexual violence prevention programs that include an additional focus on skills specifically related to condom negotiation and use to understand if these widespread programs offer an efficient and effective platform to reduce the impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among this high-risk population.
Leaping the Abyss: The Problematic Translation of Social Research Results into Policy Recommendations
Authors: Rudnicki Seweryn , Wojnicka Katarzyna
Published: March 2024

This article argues that translating social research findings into policy recommendations may pose a significant methodological and practical challenge. Due to the current emphasis on the ‘third mission’ of universities and the ‘relevance’ of scientific knowledge, it has become more common for sociologists to engage in projects that include the development of social-research-based recommendations. This article analyses empirically an example of such a project – an extensive, European Commission–funded study about the role of men in gender equality in Europe – and shows that developing recommendations may receive lower priority than producing findings, be unguided by any specific method or approach, and operate within an ‘aura of evidence’ rather than a ‘hierarchy of evidence’. Discouraging an all-too-easy criticism, this article argues for more reflection, frameworks, and methods that could support sociologists in the development of research-based guidelines for policies.
Process stability in laser–MIG hybrid welding of aluminum alloys with various laser and arc distances
Authors: Cai Chuang , Chen Zilin , Xie Jia , Li Zhenxin , Yu Jie , Chen Hui
Published: March 2024

During laser–MIG hybrid welding process of aluminum alloys, the distance between laser and arc heat source (DLA) is one of the key factors which affect the welding process stability. Weld formation exhibited various penetration depths, since the interaction between laser and arc changed. Hybrid plasma morphology fluctuated significantly at DLA of 0 mm and hybrid plasma height decreased with the increase of DLA. Violent evaporation of droplet and spatters were generated at DLA of 0 mm. Moreover, keyhole fluctuated violently and significant downward flow of liquid metal was induced at the bottom zone of molten pool due to the impact action of droplet. Keyhole fluctuation was suppressed and molten pool stability was improved at DLA of 2 mm.
Dynamic response optimization of the multistage sandwich structures imperiled to explosive loading
Authors: Patel Murlidhar , Patel Shivdayal
Published: March 2024

Explosive attacks are increasing day by day in the present era, and the design optimization of protective structures without increasing their weight is mainly a critical task for vehicles. Assessment of the dynamic response of the structures under explosive loading through experimentation is costly, with many restrictions, and highly harmful for both people and the environment. Hence, the present study deals with an explicit numerical investigation of the protective sandwich structures’ blast performance. The influence of the number of stages of honeycomb on the sandwich structures’ blast mitigation capacity was evaluated with the effective utilization of face sheets’ material as their intermediate sheets while maintaining the total volumes as well as masses of the structure's constant. The explosive loads of 1 to 3 kg of trinitrotoluene were used for the stand-off distance of 100 mm. The rate-dependent Johnson-Cook plasticity model was implemented on the designed sandwich models to discover their damage behaviors. The sandwiches’ face deflection, energy absorption, kinetic energy variation, and crushing behaviors were considered to characterize their blast mitigation capacity. The obtained results showed that increasing the number of stages of core in the sandwich structure by using a fraction of the back face sheet materials for intermediate sheets significantly improved their blast performance without increasing their volume occupancies and masses. For the two-stage and three-stage sandwich designs, 50% and 20%, respectively, utilization of their back face material for their intermediate sheet was found to be optimal.
Effect of the ratio of carbon nanotubes and carbon black on the properties of natural rubber
Authors: Zhang Xianhua , Xu Jin , Qu Qi , Zhang Ziming , Chen Long , He Yan
Published: March 2024

In this experiment, the effect of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) replacing some carbon black (CB) on the properties of natural rubber composites was investigated. 5 phr of CNTs were used to replace part of CB in the ratio of m(CNTs) : m(CB reduction) = 1 : X (X from 1 to 4.5). The properties of the vulcanized rubber such as vulcanization, thermal conductivity, tensile, heat generation and processing were investigated experimentally. The results showed that when the ratio of CNTs/CB(reduction) was 1:1, it could substantially improve the crosslink density of the sample and reduce the vulcanization time, while having better processing safety and having the best thermal conductivity. At this time, 5 phr of CNTs and 40 phr of CB were added to the sample, and the dispersion of CB and CNTs in the sample was studied by CB dispersion tester and rubber processing analyzer. The tensile property change regularity tested by rubber tensile tester matched with the experimental results of CB dispersion tester and rubber processing analyzer. When the ratio of CNTs/CB(reduction) was 1:1, it increased the heat generation of the sample significantly. When the ratio of CNTs/CB(reduction) was 1:3.5, all the properties of the sample were better than those of the 1# sample.
Nationwide trends in intensive care unit utilization in the elective endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Padmanaban Varun , Benjamin William J. , Cohrs Austin , Jareczek Francis J. , Hazard Sprague W. , Zacko Joseph Christopher , Church Ephraim W. , Simon Scott D. , Cockroft Kevin M. , Leslie Douglas L. , Wilkinson David Andrew
Published: March 2024

Objective

Multiple studies suggest routine post-operative intensive care unit (ICU) stays after endovascular treatment (EVT) of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) is unnecessary, though rates of ICU utilization nationwide are unknown. We aim to evaluate rates and characteristics of ICU utilization in patients undergoing elective endovascular repair of UIAs.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study utilizing a nationwide private-payer database in the United States to evaluate the ICU utilization in patients undergoing elective endovascular repair of UIAs between 2005 and 2019. Demographics and pre-operative comorbidities as well as post-procedural complications and discharge status were compared. An analysis of charges and costs was also performed.

Results

Among 6218 patients who underwent elective EVT of a UIA, 4890 (78.6%) were admitted to the ICU post-operatively. There were no differences in age, sex, or Charlson comorbidity scores in patients admitted to the ICU post-operatively compared to those admitted elsewhere. ICU utilization was more common in urban locations compared to rural. 12.7% of patients had ICU-specific needs sufficient to be billed by a critical care provider. Total provider costs were significantly higher in patients utilizing the ICU post-operatively, even among uncomplicated patients with routine discharges.

Conclusion

Most patients undergoing elective endovascular UIA repair in the United States are admitted to the ICU postoperatively. Only 12.7% have ICU needs, and these patients are predictable from pre-operative characteristics or peri-operative complications. Reducing ICU use in this subgroup of patients may be an important target to improve healthcare value in this patient population.
Factors responsible for student nurses’ use of non-sterile gloves: An exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Bate Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Background

Disposable non-sterile gloves are part of the personal protective equipment (PPE) to be considered to protect oneself from the risk of infection. They have subsequently become the topic of concern related to increased use, inappropriate use, and potentially increasing the risk of cross-infection and environmental impact of plastic waste.

Aim/objective

This study aimed to explore the views of pre-registration student nurses about non-sterile glove use in clinical practice and to identify the factors that impact student nurses’ decision on whether to wear non- sterile gloves.

Methods

Using a social constructivist approach, the study was organised in a higher education institution. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with second year student nurses, utilising a theoretical domains framework (TDF).

Findings/Results

The key findings showed that students had limited awareness of the national infection prevention and control best practice procedures. The primary influential factors for non-sterile gloves use behaviour were personal protection, the type of care interventions required and the observations of peers and role models.

Discussion

The study found limited awareness on the importance of infection prevention and control precautions, including the correct procedure for donning, and doffing of personal protection equipment, along with a lack of confidence to challenge non-compliance.
A Three-Arm Randomized Controlled Study Comparing Patient-Reported Outcomes in People With Type 1 Diabetes Using Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion or Multiple Daily Injections
Authors: Barnard-Kelly Katharine , Thienel Florian , Mader Julia K. , Oliver Nick , Franek Edward , Vesper Iris , Dagenbach Nicole , Vogt Gerhard , Etter Tobias , Künsting Thomas
Published: March 2024

Background:

The aim of this study was to compare patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in people with type 1 diabetes using either continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) with two different insulin patch pumps or multiple daily injections (MDIs).

Materials and methods:

In this randomized three-arm study, people with type 1 diabetes on MDI therapy were included and used either MDI, the Accu-Chek Solo micropump system (Solo) or Omnipod for 26 weeks. From weeks 26 to 39, all participants used CSII with Solo. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed using the diabetes technology questionnaire (DTQ); in addition, HbA1c values were measured.

Results:

Overall, 181 participants were randomized (61 MDI arm, 62 Solo arm, 58 Omnipod arm) and 142 completed the study. After 26 weeks in the study, the DTQ “change” score in the Solo group (105.9 [100.6-111.2]; baseline-adjusted mean [95% confidence interval]) was significantly higher than in the MDI group (94.8 [89.6-100.0]) ( P = .001). The comparison between the Solo group (105.1 [99.1-111.1]) and the Omnipod group (108.7 [103.1-114.4]) showed no significant differences ( P = .382). HbA1c increased by 0.2% ± 0.7% in the MDI group and decreased in both pump groups (Solo group −0.2% ± 0.8% and Omnipod group −0.1% ± 0.8%). Differences in HbA1c between the Solo group and the MDI group were significant ( P = .009), but not between the Solo group and the Omnipod group ( P = .896).

Conclusions:

This study showed that switching from MDI to CSII improves both psychosocial well-being and physiological outcomes. Furthermore, there were no substantial differences between the established and the recently released patch pump. Trial registration at www.clinicaltrials.gov is NCT03478969.
Severe hyponatraemia due to high output external biliary drainage corrected with bile refeeding: A case report
Authors: Subasinghe Duminda , Dassanayake Preethi , Jayasinghe Ravindri , Pathmanathan Sivatharshya , Dassanyake Vihara , Sivaganesh Sivasuriya
Published: March 2024

Hyponatraemia is an uncommon complication of external biliary drainage. We report on a 62-year-old male with hilar cholangiocarcinoma who developed refractory severe hyponatraemia despite sodium replacement during preoperative external biliary drainage. Nasojejunal bile refeeding restored sodium levels to normal.
Efficacy of telerehabilitation with digital and robotic tools for the continuity of care of people with chronic neurological disorders: The TELENEURO@REHAB protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rossetto Federica , Mestanza Mattos Fabiola Giovanna , Gervasoni Elisa , Germanotta Marco , Pavan Arianna , Cattaneo Davide , Aprile Irene , Baglio Francesca
Published: March 2024

Context

Chronic Neurological Disorders (CNDs) are among the leading causes of disability worldwide, and their contribution to the overall need for rehabilitation is increasing. Therefore, the identification of new digital solutions to ensure early and continuous care is mandatory.

Objective

This protocol proposes to test the usability, acceptability, safety, and efficacy of Telerehabilitation (TR) protocols with digital and robotic tools in reducing the perceived level of disability in CNDs including Parkinson's Disease (PD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and post-stroke patients.

Design, Setting, and Subjects

This single-blinded, multi-site, randomized, two-treatment arms controlled clinical trial will involve PD (N = 30), MS (N = 30), and post-stroke (N = 30). Each participant will be randomized (1:1) to the experimental group (20 sessions of motor telerehabilitation with digital and robotic tools) or the active control group (20 home-based motor rehabilitation sessions according to the usual care treatment). Primary and secondary outcome measures will be obtained at the baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1, 5 weeks after baseline), and at follow-up (T2, 2 months after treatment).

Main Outcome Measures

a multifaceted evaluation including quality of life, motor, and clinical/functional measures will be conducted at each time-point of assessment. The primary outcome measures will be the change in the perceived level of disability as measured by the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0.

Conclusion

The implementation of TR protocols will enable a more targeted and effective response to the growing need for rehabilitation linked to CNDs, ensuring accessibility to rehabilitation services from the initial stages of the disease.