bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid rituximab administration: Safety of 60-minute infusions in malignant and benign haematological disease
Authors: Whiting Rebecca , Misko Jeanie , McGuire Matthew , Fox Emma
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody used to treat a range of malignant and benign haematological conditions. To minimise the risk of infusion-related toxicity, initial infusions are administered slowly over 4–6 h. In the absence of significant reactions, subsequent doses are often administered over an off-label rate of 90 min. In response to emergent data, our site adopted the use of rapid 60-min infusions for third and subsequent doses. This study aimed to review the safety and ongoing feasibility of 60-min rituximab infusions following institutional practice change.

Methods

Pharmacy dispensing records were used to identify all rituximab infusions dispensed under the direction of a haematologist between 1 January 2023 and 30 June 2023. Electronic medical records were reviewed retrospectively to characterise the incidence of infusion reactions.

Results

Eight-two patients received a total of 262 rituximab infusions, including 54 patients who received a total of 113 rapid 60-min infusions. No infusion-related reactions were observed with 60-min administration. Five patients who experienced grade 1–2 infusion reactions with their first or second dose of rituximab safely received 60-min infusions for third and subsequent doses without additional premedication. Indications for treatment included non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (76.99%), non-malignant disease states (17.70%), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (3.54%) and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (1.77%).

Conclusion

In the absence of severe reactions to initial and second doses, administration of rituximab over 60 min is well tolerated in patients with malignant and benign haematological disease.
The Case for Heterogeneity in Metacognitive Appraisals of Biased Beliefs
Authors: Cusimano Corey
Published: June 2024

Academic Abstract

Prominent theories of belief and metacognition make different predictions about how people evaluate their biased beliefs. These predictions reflect different assumptions about (a) people’s conscious belief regulation goals and (b) the mechanisms and constraints underlying belief change. I argue that people exhibit heterogeneity in how they evaluate their biased beliefs. Sometimes people are blind to their biases, sometimes people acknowledge and condone them, and sometimes people resent them. The observation that people adopt a variety of “metacognitive positions” toward their beliefs provides insight into people’s belief regulation goals as well as insight into way that belief formation is free and constrained. The way that people relate to their beliefs illuminates why they hold those beliefs. Identifying how someone thinks about their belief is useful for changing their mind.

Public Abstract

The same belief can be alternatively thought of as rational, careful, unfortunate, or an act of faith. These beliefs about one’s beliefs are called “metacognitive positions.” I review evidence that people hold at least four different metacognitive positions. For each position, I discuss what kinds of cognitive processes generated belief and what role people’s values and preferences played in belief formation. We can learn a lot about someone’s belief based on how they relate to that belief. Learning how someone relates to their belief is useful for identifying the best ways to try to change their mind.
Autosomal Dominant, Long-Standing Dysglycemia in 2 Families with Unique Phenotypic Features
Authors: Hanukoglu Aaron , Banne Ehud , Lev Dorit , Wainstein Julio
Published: June 2024

We describe 2 families with 5 members from 2 generations whose clinical and laboratory characteristics over up to 15 years were consistent with dysglycemia/impaired glucose tolerance. In both families (2 probands and 3 family members), long-term follow-up excluded diabetes type 1 and type 2. Diabetes type 1 antibodies were persistently negative and C-peptide levels were normal. In Family 1, the proband, during a follow-up of 7 years (10.3-17.5 years of age), exhibited persistently high HbA1c (>5.7%) with fasting blood glucose levels mostly higher than 100 mg/dl and postprandial glucose levels up to 180 mg/dl. She eventually required oral anti-diabetics with an improvement in glycemic balance. The father and sister also had persistent mild hyperglycemia with borderline high HbA1c (mostly > 5.7%) levels over 15 and 6.2 years respectively. In Family 2, the proband exhibited borderline high fasting hyperglycemia (>100 mg/dl) at age 16.2 years with increasing HbA1c levels (from 5.6%–5.9%) and impaired glucose tolerance at age 18.3 years (2 h blood glucose 156 mg/dl after 75 g glucose). His sister also exhibited borderline hyperglycemia with borderline high HbA1c over 2 years (13.6-15.4 years). These subjects shared a unique phenotype. They are tall and slim with decreased BMI. Three subjects from Generation II failed to thrive during infancy. In view of the data from 2 generations suggesting maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) with autosomal dominant inheritance, we sought to analyze the MODY genes. In Family 1, the molecular analysis by the MODY panel including 11 genes and whole exome sequencing did not detect any mutation in the proband. In Family 2, the MODY panel was also negative in the proband’s sister. These families may represent a hitherto unidentified syndrome. Unique features described in this report may help to reveal additional families with similar characteristics and to decipher the molecular basis of this syndrome. In selected cases, oral antidiabetics in adolescents may improve the glycemic balance.
Is admission neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio an outcome predictor in critically ill multiple trauma patients? A retrospective single-centre cross-sectional study
Authors: Jabbari Latife , Azizkhani Leila , Rouzbin Fereshte , salarpour elaheh , Hayati Saeed
Published: June 2024

Background

Trauma is a global health concern with a high mortality rate. Research suggests a potential link between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and mortality. This study aims to assess the prognostic value of NLR in intensive care unit (ICU)-admitted individuals with multiple trauma.

Methods

This study reviewed medical records of multiple trauma patients admitted to the ICU of Shahid Mohammadi Hospital in Bandar Abbas, Iran, from 2020 to 2021. Variables assessed included age, sex, blood pressure, Glasgow Coma Scale, Injury Severity Score, NLR, trauma details, surgical procedures, hospital and ICU length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, and mortality.

Results

In the study, 160 multiple trauma patients were analyzed, with an average age of 34.13 ± 14.74 years. Among them, 130 (81.3%) were male and 75 (46.9%) died. The mean NLR did not show a significant difference between survivors and non-survivors ( p = 0.853). The predictive ability of NLR for mortality, as measured by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, was 0.530 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.440; 0.620, p = 0.517). Patients who died had higher rates of ICU admission, mechanical ventilation requirement, longer mechanical ventilation duration, and longer hospital and ICU stays (all p < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis found that a non-sinus rhythm in the admission ECG was associated with approximately eight times higher odds of mortality compared to a sinus rhythm (adjusted odds ratio = 7.961, 95% CI 1.724; 36.759, p = 0.008). No significant association was found between NLR and mortality in univariable binary logistic regression, even after adjusting for various factors (adjusted OR = 0.967, 95% CI 0.989; 1.042, p = 0.375).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that admission NLR did not demonstrate efficacy as a prognostic indicator of mortality among patients with multiple trauma admitted to the ICU.
Building ontology-based temporal databases for data reuse: An applied example on hospital organizational structures
Authors: Khnaisser Christina , Looten Vincent , Lavoie Luc , Burgun Anita , Ethier Jean-François
Published: June 2024

Keeping track of data semantics and data changes in the databases is essential to support retrospective studies and the reproducibility of longitudinal clinical analysis by preventing false conclusions from being drawn from outdated data. A knowledge model combined with a temporal model plays an essential role in organizing the data and improving query expressiveness across time and multiple institutions. This paper presents a modelling framework for temporal relational databases using an ontology to derive a shareable and interoperable data model. The framework is based on: OntoRela an ontology-driven database modelling approach and Unified Historicization Framework a temporal database modelling approach. The method was applied to hospital organizational structures to show the impact of tracking organizational changes on data quality assessment, healthcare activities and data access rights. The paper demonstrated the usefulness of an ontology to provide a formal, interoperable, and reusable definition of entities and their relationships, as well as the adequacy of the temporal database to store, trace, and query data over time.
My Way to School Through a Camera Lens: Involving Children to Inform a Policy Recommendation on Active School Travel
Authors: Rutberg Stina , Henriksson Malin , Andersson Mathias , Palstam Annie , Lindqvist Anna-Karin
Published: June 2024

Active school travel (AST) is an effective approach for increasing children’s physical activity and independent mobility, but policy supporting AST is lacking. This study aims to explore children’s experiences of AST to inform a policy recommendation. Photovoice methodology with a qualitative approach was applied, with children taking pictures on their way to school. This was followed by focus groups where the children explored their experiences of AST based on their photos. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The results show that the children valued independent mobility and wanted to be involved in decisions about their travels; they also expressed feelings of increased responsibility and personal growth as a consequence. Although the children recognized areas of improvement regarding infrastructure, especially regarding heavy traffic that jeopardized travel safety, they continued using AST. Finally, the children talked about the value of the health and environmental benefits of AST. Opportunities for friendship, play, and making decisions about their own time were highlighted as important incentives. The benefits from AST are many for children, as well as for society. The result has informed policy recommendations for AST, and the children’s input will be used to communicate the recommendations. Listening to the voices of children could be a steppingstone toward forming future healthy mobility initiatives. In that process, it is key to include children’s perspectives when formulating the AST policy for successful adoption and implementation.
Bone Marrow Sparing by Intensity Modulated Proton Beam Therapy in Postoperative Irradiation of Gynecologic Malignancies
Authors: Wark Antje , Gupta Anil , Meixner Eva , König Laila , Hörner-Rieber Juliane , Forster Tobias , Lang Kristin , Ellerbrock Malte , Herfarth Klaus , Debus Jürgen , Arians Nathalie
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The aim of this matched-pair cohort study was to evaluate the potential of intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) for sparring of the pelvic bone marrow and thus reduction of hematotoxicity compared to intensity-modulated photon radiotherapy (IMRT) in the setting of postoperative irradiation of gynaecological malignancies. Secondary endpoint was the assessment of predictive parameters for the occurrence of sacral insufficiency fractures (SIF) when applying IMPT. Materials and Methods: Two cohorts were analyzed consisting of 25 patients each. Patients were treated with IMPT compared with IMRT and had uterine cervical (n = 8) or endometrial cancer (n = 17). Dose prescription, patient age, and diagnosis were matched. Dosimetric parameters delivered to the whole pelvic skeleton and subsites (ilium, lumbosacral, sacral, and lower pelvis) and hematological toxicity were evaluated. MRI follow-up for evaluation of SIF was only available for the IMPT group. Results: In the IMPT group, integral dose to the pelvic skeleton was significantly lower (23.4GyRBE vs 34.3Gy; p < 0.001), the average V5Gy, V10Gy, and V20Gy were reduced by 40%, 41%, and 28%, respectively, compared to the IMRT group ( p < 0.001). In particular, for subsites ilium and lower pelvis, the low dose volume was significantly lower. Hematotoxicity was significantly more common in the IMRT group (80% vs 32%; p = 0009), especially hematotoxicity ≥ CTCAE II (36% vs 8%; p = 0.037). No patient in the IMPT group experienced hematotoxicity > CTCAE II. In the IMPT cohort, 32% of patients experienced SIF. Overall SIF occurred more frequently with a total dose of 50.4 GyRBE (37.5%) compared to 45 GyRBE (22%). No significant predictive dose parameters regarding SIF could be detected aside from a trend regarding V50Gy to the lumbosacral subsite. Conclusion: Low-dose exposure to the pelvic skeleton and thus hematotoxicity can be significantly reduced by using IMPT compared to a matched photon cohort. Sacral insufficiency fracture rates appear similar to reported rates for IMRT in the literature.
Why Digital Preservation Should Be Treated as Public Policy
Authors: Silva Wellington da
Published: June 2024

This persuasive position paper aims to discuss the public policy gaps in digital preservation identified by UNESCO and persuade the development of the current digital public policies. To evidence these gaps, the principal topics of digital public policies (digital strategy) from four countries were analyzed: Brazil, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. The analysis evidence that these digital public policies are focused on the modernization of public administration and cybersecurity; they do not contemplate digital preservation. To support the position, current legislation in record management is indicated to connect the preservation of physical and digital documents. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is also used to persuade because digital preservation is an indispensable component of sustainable development. That is because today, large amounts of cultural heritage are created and only available digitally, and never “fixed” in a physical form, museums, archives, and libraries, also embarking on an epic journey to digitization and “no development is sustainable without considering culture.” Digital culture heritage must be available for future generations, and only digital preservation can guarantee that; therefore, digital preservation must be treated as a public policy.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Should Surgeons Be Wearing Ear Protection During Primary Total Joint Arthroplasty?
Authors: Kwan Stephanie A. , Ong Alvin C. , Lutz Rex W. , Lau Vincent W. , Santoro Adam J. , Deirmengian Gregory K.
Published: June 2024

Background:

The risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) to orthopedic surgeons due to occupational exposures is unknown. A level of 85 decibels (dB) over an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) is considered hazardous.

Question/Purpose:

We sought to identify whether manual and/or robotic arthroplasty procedures increase surgeons’ risk of developing NIHL.

Methods:

At our institution, we prospectively collected intraoperative recordings with a microphone attached to the surgeon during manual total knee arthroplasty (TKA), manual total hip arthroplasty (THA), and robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RTKA). Recordings taken in the operating room without operating room staff present served as baseline controls. The 172 recordings consisted of 46 baseline, 42 THA, 40 TKA, and 44 RTKA recordings. Decibel levels were reported as “maximum dB level” (the highest sound pressure level using an A-weighted dB scale), “LAeq” (the equivalent continuous sound level), “LCpeak” (the peak sound pressure level using a C-weighted dB scale), and “TWA” (the average dB level projected over an 8-hour period). The percentage of allowable daily noise dose was reported as “dose” and the measured dose projected over 8 hours as “projected dose.”

Results:

The recordings of surgeries had average maximum dB levels ranging from 106.0 to 108.0 dB, all significantly greater than controls. Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasties had the highest average dose (18.7%) and average projected dose (252.0%).

Conclusions:

Our review of recordings at a single institution found that noise levels of RTKAs surpassed projected doses of 100%. Orthopedic surgeons performing more than 2 RTKAs per day may be at increased risk of NIHL. Further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of measures such as ear protection to minimize surgeons’ exposure.
Atypical telencephalic reflux pattern in a cavernous sinus dural AV fistula related to an anatomical variation of the basal vein of Rosenthal
Authors: Miyake Shigeta , Kee Tze P , Falzon Andrew , Andrade Hugo , Krings Timo
Published: June 2024

Cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula can cause cerebral edema and hemorrhage due to cortical venous reflux and congestion. Understanding complex venous reflux and drainage routes is crucial for treatment planning. Here, we present a case of a cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula with cortical venous reflux via two separate terminations of the telencephalic veins caused by an aplastic basal vein of Rosenthal. The patient presented with diplopia and eye redness and was diagnosed with a Cognard type IIa + b cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula. The shunt was supplied by the dural branches of the internal and external carotid arteries. Multiple shunt points involving the intercavernous sinus and the medial aspect of the left cavernous sinus were identified, with drainage into the supraorbital and intracranial veins, including two separate terminations of the telencephalic veins, one leading to the laterocavernous sinus via the superficial middle cerebral vein and the other to the cavernous sinus via the uncal vein, resulting in basal ganglia venous congestion in the absence of the basal vein of Rosenthal. During transvenous embolization, the intracranial veins, cavernous sinus, and intercavernous sinus were obliterated using a double-catheter technique with a combination of coils and liquid embolics. Telencephalic venous variations can lead to cavernous sinus drainage into the basal ganglia and orbitofrontal brain. This unique drainage pattern underscores the importance of recognizing anatomical variations when managing cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula.
Numerical simulation and performance prediction of the ejection impact of air springs
Authors: Li Yu-Ru , Xiao Shou-Ne , Xie Jun-Ke , Zhu Tao
Published: June 2024

To address the challenges of applying air springs in high-speed rail vehicle ejections, the ejection of a driver’s cabin structure is focused on in this study, and an ejection simulation model of an air spring is proposed using a series-parallel combination. The model’s accuracy is verified through virtual collision analysis of the driver’s cabin in a rail vehicle. The ejection velocity exhibits a relative error of only 9.1%. The test vehicle, driven by an air spring, achieves a maximum kinetic energy of 415 kJ, meeting the initial target value of no less than 408 kJ. Additionally, the analysis of the wheel-rail interaction reveals that the vertical lift and lateral displacement of the test vehicle are within acceptable limits, measuring 5.49 and 9.89 mm, respectively, without exceeding the wheel flange height and tread width. These results demonstrate that an air spring with a series-parallel combination can successfully propel the test vehicle to conduct the driver’s cabin collision tests without any derailment or overturning. Research on the ejection performance of air springs in this configuration offers a new driving and ejection method for applying air springs in rail vehicles, drones, and air-launched missiles, presenting promising prospects for future applications.
“If I chose to listen to people, I possibly wouldn’t be using family planning”: Impact of external influences on women’s contraceptive autonomy in rural Northwest Tanzania
Authors: Lambert Valencia J , Samson Anna , Nzali Aneth , Mukasa Lydia , Kachembeho Neema , Bowers Sheridan , Kalluvya Samuel E , Mwakisole Agrey H , Downs Jennifer A
Published: June 2024

Background:

There is an increasing emphasis on promoting women’s autonomy in reproductive decision-making, particularly given global efforts to increase contraceptive access and uptake. Scales to quantify autonomy have inconsistently included the effect of external influences and focused primarily on influences of partners.

Objectives:

This study aimed to gain greater depth in understanding how influences including and beyond a woman’s partner affect her contraceptive decision-making, as well as how external influences can overlap and further complicate contraceptive decision-making.

Design:

A phenomenological, qualitative study in which in-depth interviews were conducted in three phases from May 2021 to February 2022 with women living in northwest Tanzania who had varying histories of contraceptive use or non-use.

Methods:

One-on-one, in-depth interviews were conducted in Swahili, the national language of Tanzania, by trained female interviewers. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, translated into English, and independently coded by three investigators. Analysis was conducted using NVivo. The codes developed from the transcripts were grouped into overarching themes with supporting illustrative quotes.

Results:

A total of 72 women were interviewed. Partners were the most influential in women’s family planning decision-making, followed by friends, relatives, community religious leaders, and healthcare providers. Out of the 52 women with a partner who had ever used family planning, 76.9% had discussed their desire to use family planning with their partner and nearly all reported strong pressures to use or not to use family planning from partners, family, and friends. Rarely, participants stated that they were devoid of any influence.

Conclusion:

In rural Tanzania, women’s decision-making about family planning was highly impacted by external influences, including not only partners but also family, friends, and community. Indicators of women’s reproductive autonomy and measurements of interventions to promote contraceptive use should incorporate measures of these external influences.
The named and the nameless: A comparative analysis of US and UK news coverage of civilian deaths caused by US drone strikes, 2009–2016
Authors: Rowling Charles M , Gilmore Jason , Sheets Penelope
Published: June 2024

Research on foreign news coverage suggests that journalists tend to exhibit an ethnocentric bias when reporting on issues that might reflect poorly upon their nation. This stems from the institutional, commercial and cultural pressures that tend to shape the news production process. These pressures are at odds with other professional norms and values within journalism that are seen as crucial to democracy, including the need to inform the public, hold leaders accountable and expose abuses of power. This study examines these tensions in the context of US drone warfare. The authors employ social identity theory to systematically examine the manner and extent to which civilian casualties caused by US drone strikes were reported on in news coverage in the US ( The New York Times) versus the UK ( The Guardian) from 2009–2016. The article explores whether civilian casualty mentions in these news sources led to a more critical examination of the merits and efficacy of the drone policy.
Comparative effectiveness and safety of ozanimod versus other oral DMTs in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a synthesis of matching-adjusted indirect comparisons
Authors: Paul Damemarie , Swallow Elyse , Patterson-Lomba Oscar , Branchcomb Tychell , N’Dri Laetitia , Gomez-Lievano Andres , Liu Jingyi , Dua Akanksha , McGinley Marisa
Published: June 2024

Background:

Several oral disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). In the absence of head-to-head randomized data, matching-adjusted indirect comparisons (MAICs) can evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety of ozanimod versus other oral DMTs in RRMS.

Objectives:

To synthesize results from the published MAICs of ozanimod and other oral DMTs for 2-year outcomes in RRMS.

Methods:

Published MAICs involving ozanimod for the treatment of RRMS were identified. Extracted data elements included efficacy [annualized relapse rate (ARR), confirmed disability progression (CDP), and brain volume loss] and safety [adverse events (AEs), serious AEs (SAEs), AEs leading to discontinuation, and infection] outcomes.

Results:

The four MAIC studies identified compared ozanimod with fingolimod, teriflunomide, dimethyl fumarate (DMF), and ponesimod. All comparisons were adjusted for differences in age, sex, relapses within the previous year, Expanded Disability Status Scale score, and percentage of patients with prior DMTs. Outcomes at 2 years were analyzed based on comparisons that lacked a common comparator arm. Ozanimod was associated with significantly lower ARR versus teriflunomide [ARR ratio (95% CI) 0.73 (0.62, 0.84) and DMF 0.80 (0.67, 0.97)], with no significant difference versus fingolimod or ponesimod. The proportions of patients treated with ozanimod or fingolimod had similar 3- and 6-month CDP. Compared with teriflunomide and DMF, ozanimod was associated with a significantly lower risk of 3-month CDP; 6-month CDP was comparable. Ozanimod was associated with significantly lower rates of any AE and AEs leading to discontinuation compared with the other oral DMTs evaluated. Ozanimod also had significantly lower rates of SAEs versus teriflunomide and DMF and lower rates of reported infection outcomes versus fingolimod and ponesimod.

Conclusion:

Compared with the other oral DMTs evaluated in MAICs, ozanimod was associated with a favorable safety profile and improved or comparable efficacy outcomes.
Images of care: Marriage, family making, and the reproduction of the social order in Tajikistan
Authors: Borisova Elena , Torno Swetlana
Published: June 2024

Marriage is a central event in all Central Asian societies and is particularly important for the lives of individuals, kinship groups, and society more broadly. Within the regional scholarship, it serves as an entry point for the study of a wide range of topics and the exploration of social, political, economic, and religious dynamics. This article aims to shift the perspective on Central Asian marriages from questions of political economy and identity to the circulation of care by scrutinising its role in social reproduction across the scales of the individual body, family, community, and the state. Drawing on the ethnographic material collected by the authors during extensive fieldwork in two localities in Tajikistan, this article analyzes care practices in several domains: organising the daughter’s dowry, assembling the bride’s fashions, preparing food and serving the guests, maintaining family’s reputation and status, caring for the reproduction of tradition, and the state’s care for families. We argue that feminist and anthropological studies that draw attention to care’s productive as well as disruptive sides are helpful for understanding how these practices contribute to reproducing old and forging new types of relatedness and maintaining complex social worlds. Working with care practices visually, alongside textual representations, allows us to convey people’s enormous affective, material, and labour investments in marriages and to draw attention to the visible and invisible aspects of these practices.
Strategy Divergence and Performance Polarization in the Hotel Industry
Authors: Kim Changhee , Shin Jaeho , Yang Hongsuk , Bang Dohyung , Verma Rohit
Published: June 2024

The emergence of home-sharing services and technological advancements has transformed the lodging market, prompting strategic divergence for distinct brand positioning. Previous hospitality research primarily explored linear relationships between hotel brand strategy and performance, leaving a gap regarding the impact of brand strategy divergence on performance heterogeneity. In this respect, this study examined how hotel brands’ strategic divergence influences performance heterogeneity. By employing the bootstrap two-stage data envelopment analysis with customer satisfaction as an intermediate factor, this study computed service productivity and service effectiveness as performance measures. The results indicate significant differences in service productivity and effectiveness patterns based on brand strategy—upper-scale, lower-scale, or extended-stay-type positioning. Hotels cluster into “revenue-oriented” and “efficient provider” groups, revealing distinct performance polarization. Importantly, this polarization does not imply the inherent superiority of a specific strategy; rather, the findings suggest hotels may optimize performance structure based on their chosen strategy.
Spirit, Spirit of Adoption, and the Love of God
Authors: Averbeck Richard E.
Published: June 2024

“ . . . you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God” (Rom 8:15-16 NRSV). The divine Holy Spirit and the human “spirit” cooperate in the working of the “Spirit (or ‘spirit’)” of “adoption” (v. 15) in the life of the believer. The term “spirit” in the Bible when used for the human spirit can refer to anything we think or feel, our likes or dislikes, how we look at things, our view of events or people, our state of being at any moment, whether gentle, fearful, powerful, or any possible range of human desires, emotions, or experiences. This article examines the critical work of the Holy Spirit, who works amid all our groaning in life to occupy our human spirit with the transforming reality that nothing will be able to separate us “from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (vv. 38–39).
The Contributions of Social/Organizational Psychology to Policing
Authors: Tyler Tom R.
Published: June 2024

This article reviews the contributions of social/organizational psychology to social reform in the area of law and legal institutions. Social/organizational psychology provides theoretical models for legal authority based on popular legitimacy, something that is created and maintained when laws are created and when legal authority is implemented through just procedures. This alternative model provides a contrast to the generally dominant deterrence model and, when adopted, leads to a more desirable relationship between community members and legal authorities because it motivates not only compliance but also cooperation with legal authorities and community engagement.
How Justice Theory and Research Can Help Address Organizational and Societal Problems
Authors: Brockner Joel , Bobocel D. Ramona
Published: June 2024

Organizational justice scholars have examined the consequences and causes of employees’ fairness perceptions. Given the reliability of what is known about how, when, and why fairness perceptions matter, we can and should contribute to addressing the pressing problems of our times, regardless of whether they primarily reside within organizations (e.g., diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)) or outside of organizations (e.g., climate change, political extremism). Our focus aligns with more general calls for responsible management research (Tsui, 2022). Accordingly, we illustrate the implications of organizational justice scholarship for addressing three issues: DEI, climate change, and political extremism. We also consider some of the barriers associated with translating organizational justice theory and research to practice, offer some recommendations on how to overcome those barriers, and delineate some of the unintended consequences of our best efforts. Finally, we describe ways in which organizational justice scholars can make our knowledge more accessible in public domains.
A survey assessing knowledge and attitude about blood donation among blood donors in Jordan
Authors: Omaish Rahaf S. , Al-Fayyadh Zahraa A. , Al-Habashneh Shifar M. , Al-Mashhdi Safa Y. , Khasawneh Salah Y. , Naber Isam A. , Bourghli Sana L. , Al-Adily Tariq N. , Al-Fararjeh Firas M. , Sughayer Maher A.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Recruitment of low risk blood donors can be challenging. Efforts should be made to increase the level of awareness and positive attitude towards blood donation. An essential step to achieve this is obtaining comprehensive data about the current situation of awareness, knowledge and attitudes of the population towards blood donation.

Methods/materials:

The present study was conducted at two blood donation centres in Amman, Jordan, during 2021. A total of 536 whole blood donors were included. Data regarding their demographic characteristics, blood donation history as well as their knowledge and attitudes regarding blood donation were collected by a questionnaire.

Results:

Four hundred ninety participants (91.4%) were males, whereas only 46 participants (8.6%) were females. Ninety seven subjects (18.1%) were first time donors, whereas 431 subjects (81.9%) had previous donations. The participants’ median score in the knowledge section was 19.0 points (range 5–25 points). Based on a cut-off of 15 out of 28: 84% of the participants were knowledgeable. Similarly 97% of the participants had a positive attitude based on a cut-off of 17 out of 32 points. Multivariate analysis revealed that high knowledge score was significantly associated with study major and employment status, whereas a positive attitude was significantly associated with a higher income. More than half of first time donors stated lack of awareness as being the reason for not donating blood before.

Conclusion:

Measures to improve awareness, knowledge and attitudes towards blood donation should be implemented in order to meet the increasing demand for blood and blood components. Targeted campaigns, correction of some misconceptions and using different motivations are suggested.
The Crucial Role of EWOM: Mediating the Impact of Marketing Mix Strategies on International Students’ Study Destination Decision
Authors: Al-Dmour Rand , Al-Dmour Hani , Al-Dmour Ahmed
Published: June 2024

This study examines the crucial role of electronic word-of-mouth (EWOM) in mediating the impact of marketing mix strategies on international students’ study destination decisions. The theoretical framework proposed in this research integrates consumer behavior theories to enhance our understanding of the relationship between marketing mix strategies and international students’ enrollment choices. Building upon previous research that underscores the importance of marketing mix strategies in shaping consumer choices, this study focuses specifically on the context of international students deciding to study in Jordan. To achieve its objectives, a questionnaire was administered to a sample of 2000 international students who recently enrolled in both public and private universities in Jordan, with a response rate of 61%. Through rigorous empirical analysis, this study provides compelling evidence that the quality of the product/program, price, place, and promotion significantly influence the decision-making process of international students. Moreover, the study reveals that EWOM plays a critical mediating role in this relationship, underscoring the significance of online reviews, ratings, and recommendations in shaping consumer perceptions and choices. These findings underscore the need for marketers to proactively monitor and manage online reviews and harness the power of EWOM as a potent marketing tool to positively impact consumer decision-making.
Assessing Degree of Overall Prospect for Merger and Acquisition of Managed Funds: A Relative Performance Perspective
Authors: Galagedera Don U. A. , Leung Jessica , Vahid Farshid
Published: June 2024

The objective of this research is to analyze the merger and acquisition potential of managed funds as distinct endeavors and evaluate their overall prospects separately. Initially, the pre-merger performance is evaluated employing data envelopment analysis (DEA) under the variable returns to scale assumption. Merged fund performance is evaluated similarly after augmenting the sample with the merged fund. A fund pair is considered a merger prospect when both demonstrate the potential to enhance DEA-efficiency based rankings. Similarly, prospective acquisition targets are identified, albeit meeting different criteria. Improvement in rankings is categorized as high, medium, or low on an ordinal scale. The overall merger prospect of a given fund is determined by a weighted sum of the number of its prospective merger candidates and the frequency of the fund in question enhance their performance at the high, medium, and low level. Overall prospects serve as indicators of a fund’s potential to merge and acquire within the industry. Studies generally compute efficiency gain focusing on one merger. We propose a novel method to aggregate efficiency gain. This approach is new to the literature. In an investigation of a sample of Australian superannuation funds with 2021 annual cross-sectional data reveals that, on average, industry funds exhibit more merger and acquisition prospects within their own category compared to retail, corporate, and public sector funds. Notably, corporate funds show no such prospects. These findings have important policy implications.
When Does the Reproduction of Violence Begin? The Effects of Indirect Violence during Clinical Training on Career Identity
Authors: Choi Eun-Hi , Kim Ji-yeon , Im Sookbin , Kim Susanna , Park Seoyeon , Song Haein , Lee Daeun , Lee Seunghyun , Lee Jieun , Cho Yebin
Published: June 2024

In Korea, there are cases where nurses use abusive language while teaching new nurses. Nursing students who observe and experience this kind of violence question themselves if they will be able to perform well in such an environment. This descriptive research study examined the mediating effect of negative emotions and the regulated mediating effect of resilience in the relationship between indirect experiences of violence and career identity. Junior- and senior-year students in the nursing departments of nine universities located in Gyeonggi Province and Seoul were recruited using snowball sampling from August 1st to August 31st, 2021. A total of 254 participants completed the questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the SPSS PROCESS macro. The factors that affected career identity were indirect experience of violence (β = −.1978, p = .0001), negative emotions (β = −.2364, p < .0001), and resilience (β = .3107, p < .0001). Resilience (β = −.1113, p = .0112) had a moderated mediating effect on negative emotions. The index of moderated mediation of negative emotions and resilience was statistically significant at −0.0284 (95% CI [−0.0549, −0.0046]). As a result of this study, when students see a violent situation, they have negative emotions such as fear of making a mistake, and their confidence in nursing performance decreases. In order to avoid this situation, they avoid their career path. In this study, it showed that the greater the resilience, the greater the ability to overcome it. Violence itself needs to be improved, and resilience strengthening programs are needed for children and women exposed to violence.
Propagating COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories: The Influence of Right-Wing Sources
Authors: Yu Wenting , Chen Zhicong , Meng Xiang , Yan Qing
Published: June 2024

Although the growing literature on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) conspiracy theories has highlighted the role of digital media in fomenting beliefs, few studies have examined the influence of the fast-rising far-right media platforms. This study examines and compares the role of conservative media and far-right websites in propagating COVID-19 conspiracy theories and explores an underlying sociopsychological mechanism of political identity. The results of an online survey ( N = 702) in the United States indicated that people exposed to conservative media and far-right websites were more likely to endorse COVID-19 conspiracy theories, but the impact of conservative media exposure was more prominent. Additionally, the positive relations between conservative media/far-right websites exposure and conspiracy beliefs were stronger among liberal-leaning individuals than conservative-leaning individuals. Counter-attitudinal exposure is often regarded as a crucial element of political deliberation and a solution to opinion polarization. Our findings cautioned, however, that counter-attitudinal exposure would also help propagate conspiracy theories.
College and Career Ready (or Not): A Systematic Review of Programs in Alternative Settings
Authors: Shera Samantha , Blasko Alyssa , Kern Lee , Liang Christopher T. H. , Freeman Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) are at an increased risk for poor outcomes (e.g., dropout, unemployment, mental health problems). These risks are heightened for students placed in juvenile justice and/or alternative placement settings. Increasing college and career readiness (CCR) opportunities may potentially lead to increases in school engagement, better postsecondary outcomes, and lower school dropout. Previous systematic reviews have examined CCR programs solely in school settings. The current review extended previous research by examining CCR programs for students placed in juvenile justice settings, detention centers, and/or alternative placement settings serving students with emotional and behavioral problems. A total of seven articles were identified after a rigorous systematic search and screening process. A majority of the studies employed didactic instruction as part of a multicomponent intervention, and evaluated multiple outcomes with mixed effectiveness. With respect to quality indicators, many of the studies did not meet standards of rigor for empirical research. Future research, practice, and policy implications are addressed as there is a need to increase the evidence base of CCR programs for youth in juvenile justice and alternative placement settings.
Post-Operative Hyperextension Bracing Has the Potential to Reduce Proximal Junctional Kyphosis: A Propensity Matched Analysis of Braced versus Non-braced Cohorts
Authors: Shahi Pratyush , Merrill Robert K. , Pajak Anthony , Samuel Justin T. , Akosman Izzet , Clohisy John C. , Du Jerry , Zhang Bo , Elysee Jonathan , Kim David N. , Jordan Yusef , Knopp Rachel L. , Lovecchio Francis C. , Kim Han Jo
Published: June 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Objective

Determine effects of bracing on proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) after adult deformity correction.

Methods

Patients were identified from a single-surgeon dataset of posterior-only fusions for ASD (pelvis to UIV of T9-12) with a minimum of 1-year follow up. Starting in 2021, all lower thoracic fusions were braced using a hyperextension brace. Patients wore the brace at all times (unless in bed) for the first 6 weeks after surgery. A 1:1 propensity-match was performed based on age, number of levels, 3 column osteotomies, and magnitude of correction to identify a comparative non-braced cohort.

Results

141 patients (113 non-brace, 28 brace) were evaluated. After matching, 56 patients were identified to form similar cohorts. Non-matched and matched groups had no statistically significant differences in demographics, comorbid conditions, surgical characteristics (except shorter operative time and lower EBL in the braced group), and preoperative radiographic parameters. For the overall cohort, the change in proximal junctional angle at 1-year was higher in the non-braced group (7.6° vs 8.1°, P = .047), and non-braced patients had a higher incidence of PJK at 1-year in both the overall cohort (36% vs 14%, P = .045) and matched cohort (43% vs 14%, P = .038). There was no difference in proximal junctional failure between groups.

Conclusion

This pilot study shows that our protocol for extension bracing may reduce rates of PJK. These findings can form the basis for future multi-center trials examining the effect of extension bracing on junctional complications.
Maternal Education and Children Home Alone in 63 Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Sultana Toufica , Ruiz-Casares Mónica , Iwo René , Janus Magdalena , Nazif-Muñoz José Ignacio
Published: June 2024

Background. Maternal education may influence child supervision practices in low-and middle-income countries (LMIC). However, little is known about the maternal factors that can improve child supervision in LMIC with scarce childcare facilities. Objective. To investigate the prevalence of children under 5 years home alone and examine the association between mother’s formal education and children home alone across 63 LMIC. Methods. The study used data from 50 Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys and 13 Demographic and Health Surveys with a sample of 501 769 children. We estimated Prevalence Ratios (PRs) for the association between maternal education and children home alone using multivariable Poisson regression, adjusting for covariates such as child’s age and sex, mother’s age and marital status, number of adults inhabiting the households, and urbanicity. Results. Prevalence of children home alone across 63 LMIC ranged from 1.1% to 50.1%. A significant negative association between mothers with more years of formal education and children home alone was found across 16 LMIC. However, the opposite trend was observed in Nigeria, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire. Null association was found across 44 LMIC. Conclusions. The varied pattern of the associations observed across LMIC underscores the importance of regional and local factors when developing policies and interventions to ensure safety and adequate care for children aged under 5 years in LMIC.
Assessment of Nurses Fear Working in COVID-19 Pandemic Hospitals
Authors: Liel Farid Abu
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Nurses play pivotal roles in various facets of managing the COVID-19 epidemic, encompassing tasks such as identifying potential cases with infections, managing suspected patients, conducting patient assessments, and providing critical care to individuals afflicted with COVID-19.

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the level of COVID-19 fear among nurses who care for infected or suspected COVID-19 patients in pandemic hospitals.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 260 nurses employed at COVID-19 hospitals in Palestine. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) was employed to measure participants’ fear levels. The scale's potential values range from 7 to 35, with higher scores indicating a greater fear of COVID-19. Independent t-tests and ANOVA tests were utilized to evaluate differences between the variables.

Results

The analysis revealed that the mean total fear score of the nurses was 25.22 ± 5.07 (ranging from 7 to 35), indicating a high level of fear. Married nurses exhibited a fear mean score of 27.0 ± 4.9 ( p < 0.05). Similarly, nurses with children scored a mean fear level of 29.0 ± 4.6 ( p < 0.05). Additionally, nurses engaged in rotating shift work reported a fear mean score of 27.9 ± 4.4 ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, nurses who received COVID-19 training exhibited a fear mean score of 24.6 ± 4.8 ( p < 0.05). Likewise, nurses who experienced patient loss due to COVID-19 reported a fear mean score of 23.2 ± 4.5 ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study confirmed that nurses in Palestine exhibit a significant level of fear concerning COVID-19. Marital status, having children, working schedule, experiencing the loss of a patient due to COVID-19, and receiving training related to COVID-19 were identified as factors associated with the fear of COVID-19 among nurses.