bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the combined Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety and Depression Scale among people with HIV in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Minh X , Zimmer Catherine , Latkin Carl A , Lancaster Kathryn E , Dowdy David W , Hutton Heidi , Chander Geetanjali , Frangakis Constantine , Gaynes Bradley N , Sripaipan Teerada , Tran Ha V , Go Vivian F
Published: June 2023

Background

Our study aims to examine the factor structure, validity, and reliability of the combined scale Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety and Depression Scale (PHQ-ADS) among people with HIV (PWH) in Vietnam.

Methods

Baseline data from an alcohol-reduction intervention trial among ART clients in Thai Nguyen, Vietnam were used for this analysis ( n = 1547). A score ≥10 on the PHQ-9, GAD-7 and PHQ-ADS scale was considered having clinically meaningful depression, anxiety and distress symptoms. Factor structure of the combined PHQ-ADS scale was validated using confirmatory factor analysis, and three models were tested: a one-factor, a two-factor, and a bi-factor model. Reliability and construct validity were examined.

Results

The prevalence of clinically meaningful depression and anxiety symptoms was 7% and 2%, respectively, while 19% had distress symptoms. A bi-factor model had the best fit to the data (RMSEA = 0.048; CFI = 0.99; TLI = 0.98). The Omega index of the bi-factor model was 0.97. The scale showed good construct validity through negative associations between depression, anxiety, distress symptoms and quality of life.

Conclusions

Our study supports the use of a combined scale to measure general distress for PWH, which has good validity, reliability and is unidimensional enough to justify the use of a composite depression and anxiety score.
Use and acceptance of technology with academic and digital libraries context: A meta-analysis of UTAUT model and future direction
Authors: Ali Irfan , Warraich Nosheen Fatima
Published: June 2023

This study aims to investigate the relationship of factors of UTAUT/UTAUT2 model with behavioral intention to acceptance and use of technology within academic and digital libraries context. These objectives were achieved by using meta-analysis approach using the Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA-P) protocol. A comprehensive search strategy was formulated for searching relevant studies from Google Scholar, Scopus, and LISTA. Fourteen studies were selected that were published from 2008 to 2022 in different countries worldwide. The results of all the hypotheses showed a significant relationship of Performance Expectancy (PE), Effort Expectancy (EE), Social Influence (SI), Facilitating Conditions (FC), Hedonic Motivation (HM), and habit on Behavioral Intention (BI) to use technology for libraries. The magnitude of the effect size regarding the relationship of all the constructs was large. Present research identified a complete picture of studies published worldwide regarding the relationships of UTAUT/UTAUT2 constructs for acceptance of technology within the context of academic and digital libraries. Thus, this meta-analysis fills the literature gap and provides insights to reach conclusion about the relationships of UTAUT/UTAUT2 constructs. As previously published studies in this domain have provided significant/no-significant results and the strength of the relationship was also varied and these studies were lacking any collective conclusion. Findings of our study are also helpful for application developers in developing user-friendly and useful software for library services.
Test sensitivity in a prospective cancer screening program: A critique of a common proxy measure
Authors: Lange Jane , Zhao Yibai , Gogebakan Kemal Caglar , Olivas-Martinez Antonio , Ryser Marc D. , Gard Charlotte C. , Etzioni Ruth
Published: June 2023

The true sensitivity of a cancer screening test, defined as the frequency with which the test returns a positive result if the cancer is present, is a key indicator of diagnostic performance. Given the challenges of directly assessing test sensitivity in a prospective screening program, proxy measures for true sensitivity are frequently reported. We call one such proxy empirical sensitivity, as it is given by the observed ratio of screen-detected cancers to the sum of screen-detected and interval cancers. In the setting of the canonical three-state Markov model for progression from preclinical onset to clinical diagnosis, we formulate a mathematical relationship for how empirical sensitivity varies with the screening interval and the mean preclinical sojourn time and identify conditions under which empirical sensitivity exceeds or falls short of true sensitivity. In particular, when the inter-screening interval is short relative to the mean sojourn time, empirical sensitivity tends to exceed true sensitivity, unless true sensitivity is high. The Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC) has reported an estimate of 0.87 for the empirical sensitivity of digital mammography. We show that this corresponds to a true sensitivity of 0.82 under a mean sojourn time of 3.6 years estimated based on breast cancer screening trials. However, the BCSC estimate of empirical sensitivity corresponds to even lower true sensitivity under more contemporary, longer estimates of mean sojourn time. Consistently applied nomenclature that distinguishes empirical sensitivity from true sensitivity is needed to ensure that published estimates of sensitivity from prospective screening studies are properly interpreted.
Ultraviolet (UV) curable hybrid material based on palm oil: plasticization effect and flame retardancy
Authors: Ammar MG Muhammad , Sua PR , Azizah AB , Alosaimi AM , Hussein MA , Rozman HD , Tay GS
Published: June 2023

In this study, a UV curable hybrid material from palm oil was prepared with glycerol and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA). However, the resin was brittle and flammable. Thus, tri-n-butyl phosphate (TnBP) and polypropylene glycol 400 (PPG) were added in the formulation as a flame retardant and plasticizer respectively. From the results, the gel content of UV cured films were more than 95%. The hardness, adhesion strength, impact, water absorption and wettability of the films were influenced by PPG 400 content as well as TnBP percentage. In addition, the flame retardant properties of coated wood were enhanced by PPG 400 and TnBP too. The results show that high oxygen concentration was needed to ignite the sample with a high amount of PPG 400 and TnBP. The flame retardant properties of the sample were the best for a combination of 15% PPG 400, and 5% TnBP, in the determination of limited oxygen index (LOI), UL 94 and Methenamine pill test.
The Impact of FTA on Trade Volume and Terms of Trade between Pakistan and China
Authors: Ahmed Arsalan , Rahman Inam Ur , Jauhari Samana
Published: June 2023

The primary purpose of this study is to examine the impact of free trade agreements on trade volume and terms of trade between Pakistan and China. It examines the effect of the Pakistan–China Free Trade Agreement (PCFTA) on sector-wise trade welfare for both countries. Using the model of Lloyd and Maclaren, this study has quantified the trade welfare effect for both countries through trade volume, intra-union terms of trade and extra-union terms of trade in the context of PCFTA. The study concludes that the trade welfare increases for China and decreases for Pakistan after the complete execution of PCFTA. Also, there has been a trade creation for China and trade diversion for Pakistan by the PCFTA.

JEL Codes: F15, F10, F13, I30, F60, F02
Is the Willingness to Take Risks a Credential for Being a Model Farmer?
Authors: Begho Toritseju
Published: June 2023

Despite the significant role of model or demonstrator farmers in disseminating new technologies, systematic and empirical examination of the behavioural characteristics that distinguish demonstrator farmers from other farmers is lacking. Understanding the characteristics of demonstrator farmers is as important as the characteristics of the technology or practice being demonstrated in model farms. Thus, this article examines whether attitudes to risks distinguish demonstrators from non-demonstrator farmers. The results show that a larger proportion of demonstrator farmers will take risks as compared to non-demonstrators. The results also indicate that being less risk-averse increases the chances of being a demonstrator farmer. The implication is that while demonstrators tolerate the risks that accompany adopting technologies, the reverse could be the case for non-demonstrator farmers. Crucially, this finding will inform the decision-making of extension agents when choosing demonstrator farmers. This article will also serve as evidence for future programmes not to rely wholly on demonstrator farmers as the decisively indicative test of farmers’ overall risk attitude.

JEL Codes: D81, C9, Q12
What Role Does EPL Play in Wage Determination under Segmented Labour Markets? A State-level Analysis from India’s Formal Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Sofi Irfan Ahmad
Published: June 2023

This study explores the role of employment protection legislation (EPL) in wage determination using a state-level panel dataset for India’s formal manufacturing sector. Unlike previous studies, we create a quantitative indicator of EPL using state-wise court judgements (on labour disputes), citing various sections of Chapters 5A and 5B of the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, particularly those dealing with employment and wage-related legislations. Our findings suggest that pro-worker court judgements specifically on wage-related issues lead to an increase in the share of wages in industrial output. The findings are robust to alternative model specifications. However, we find that the share of wages responds negatively to an increase in pro-worker strictness in the overall EPL. We also analyse the consequences of labour market dualism, which is increasingly becoming a norm even in formal sectors. Using insights from labour market segmentation theory, we argue that a divergence in the regulation between regular and contract labour has a potential to undermine the success of active labour market policies in curbing the ill-effects of market segmentation.

JEL Codes: J21, K31
Benevolent Sexism and the Gender Gap in Startup Evaluation
Authors: Nguyen Nhu , Hideg Ivona , Engel Yuval , Godart Frédéric
Published: June 2023

Women-led startups are evaluated less favorably than men-led startups, but the reasons for this require further investigation. Drawing on ambivalent sexism theory, we posit that benevolent sexism undermines gender equity in startup evaluation. We initially expected benevolent sexism to be negatively related to evaluations of women-led startups. Surprisingly, we found that benevolent sexism is unrelated to evaluations of women-led startups but is positively related to those of men-led startups—a finding that was replicated in two additional studies. Our work demonstrates benevolent sexism as an advantaging mechanism of inequity in entrepreneurship that boosts men’s outcomes without directly harming women’s outcomes.
Development of a Measure of Child Welfare Practice Excellence
Authors: Dow-Fleisner Sarah , Stager Megan , Gregoire Nina , Woodmass Kyler , More Jeffrey W. , Wells Susan J.
Published: June 2023

Purpose: Many elements contribute to practice excellence within child welfare services, yet there are limited measures available to assess these elements. This article describes the process of developing and pilot-testing a measure of child welfare practice excellence. Method: The Elements of Child Welfare Practice (ECWP) measure was developed following an extensive literature review, with input from child welfare research experts and an anti-colonial practitioner. The ECWP was part of a comprehensive online survey administered during site visits with three Indigenous child welfare agencies in Canada. Results: Polychoric correlations and ordinal alpha revealed the ECWP had strong internal consistency and convergent validity. The ECWP had three subscales related to the importance and delivery of practice elements, and workers’ perception of their practice. Conclusions: This measure showed the potential to be useful in assessing the degree to which child welfare workers intend to and actually engage in elements associated with practice excellence.
Freighted Friendships to Phony Flowers: Feminist Memory Work and Self-Study in a Study Abroad Program
Authors: Hare Kathleen (Kaye) , Moore Amber
Published: June 2023

Background: This paper analyzes a remembered shared experience of cocurricular designing and coteaching an experiential learning pilot project in a university study abroad program (SAP) that emphasized social justice. Purpose: We look back because the pilot program is a significant demonstration of what complexities can arise when feminist educators bring their own politics and pedagogies to experiential learning and study abroad education contexts; we understand this as valuable because “experience” broadly is complex. Memory is crucial to feminist educators because it indicates the development of care, ethics, pedagogy, politics, and priorities, and so, we ask: what pedagogical insights can be gained through revisiting our enmeshed personal/professional memories of cocurricular designing and coteaching an experiential learning series for study abroad students? Methodology: We use self-study and memory work to analyze memory objects (curriculum materials) and narratives (of teaching) to explore this pedagogical work and highlight generative tensions that emerged while employing a critical feminist approach to work not initially conceptualized with this framing. Findings: We uncovered three key tensions: personal, community, and racial that troubled emergent issues related to difference, discourse, and positionality. Implications: This project offers pedagogical insights into how oppression and inequality may enter experiential learning and study abroad spaces.
Using the Urban Regime Framework to Study Processes of Urban Governance: Agendas, Coalitions, Resources, and Schemes of Cooperation
Authors: van Ostaaijen Julien
Published: June 2023

One of the questions when undertaking comparative research into local politics and processes of collective organization is what frame should be used. In recent decades, many scholars have opted for the urban regime. There is however much debate about the usefulness of this concept for comparative purposes, with the urban regime accused of being theoretically both too narrow as well as too general. In three Dutch case studies, researchers have sought a middle way by applying the urban regime's four building blocks (agenda, coalition, resources, and scheme of cooperation) as a heuristic framework. The results show that this approach has several advantages, especially for comparative purposes, as it provides a clear oversight as to which agendas dominate where and when, and how certain coalitions, resources, and schemes of cooperation align. These benefits however require close attention to certain points: researchers should interpret the building blocks consistently and try to avoid overlap and repetition between them.
Comparing Harmful Behaviors Among Dancers According to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Utilizing the RISQ
Authors: Honrado Joshua , Oh Cheongeun , Ryan Linda , Liederbach Marijeanne
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

There is a dearth of information about whether lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) dancers, who often experience increased psychosocial risk factors, are at increased risk of engaging in harmful behaviors compared to their heterosexual cisgender counterparts. This study explores harmful behaviors dancers engage in according to their self-reported sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI), utilizing the validated Risky, Impulsive, and Self-Destructive Behavior Questionnaire (RISQ).

Methods:

Three hundred sixty-four dancers from 7 elite dance entities in New York were contacted by e-mail to participate in the study. Sixty-six participants completed the study through a virtual questionnaire. Chi-square, ANOVA and independent t-test were utilized to assess statistical differences among RISQ outcomes in 4 SOGI groups: Cisgender Heterosexual Female (n = 20); Cisgender Heterosexual Male (n = 7); LGBTQ+ Female (n = 19); and LGBTQ+ Male (n = 20).

Results:

Chi-square comparing SOGI group frequency of participation within each of the RISQ behaviors revealed statistically significant difference with: difficulty stopping eating ( P = .05); gambling illegally ( P = .036); betting on sports, horses, or other animals ( P = .036); buying expensive items that cannot be afforded at the spur of the moment ( P = .019); and drinking 5 or more alcoholic drinks in 3 hours or less ( P = .013). Between-group frequency comparison through ANOVA and independent t-test revealed: the LGBTQ+ Male group were 92% more likely to have unprotected sex with someone they just met or did not know well ( P < .001) and 83% more likely to use hallucinogens, LSD, or mushrooms ( P = .018); the LGBTQ+ Female and LGBTQ+ Male groups were 4.4 times more likely to buy drugs ( P = .01) and 4.88 times more likely to think about killing themselves ( P = .023); and both male groups were 12.8 times more likely to steal money ( P = .006).

Conclusions:

This study found significant difference in RISQ scores based on a dancer’s SOGI. Harmful behaviors should be taken into consideration when working to improve dancer patient outcomes and quality of life.
An Exploratory Study on the Effect of 2 Brazilian Dance Protocols on Motor Aspects and Quality of Life of Individuals with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Moratelli Jéssica Amaro , Delabary Marcela dos Santos , Curi Vanessa Sanders , Passos-Monteiro Elren , Swarowsky Alessandra , Haas Aline Nogueira , Guimarães Adriana Coutinho de Azevedo
Published: June 2023

Background:

Due to its multiple benefits in Parkinson’s Disease, Dance has been a widely recommended activity in rehabilitation. However, there is a gap in the literature on the use of Brazilian sytles in rehabilitation protocols. This study aimed to compare the effect of 2 different protocols of Brazilian dance, samba and forró, and samba on motor aspects and quality of life of individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Methods:

In a nonrandomized clinical trial lasting 12 weeks, 69 individuals with Parkinson’s disease participated in the study: forró and samba group (FSG = 23), samba group (SG = 23), and control group (CG = 23).

Results:

Significant improvements were found after SG intervention in the UPDRSIII and in the subitem quality of life mobility. In intra-group comparisons of FSG, significant differences were found in the subtype of quality of life discomfort. In the intergroup analysis, significant differences were found between CG, SG, and FSG in the communication sub-item, showing a greater increase in the scores of the groups that participated in the SG and FSG.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study suggest that Brazilian dance practice is capable of improving the perception of some aspects of quality of life and motor symptoms in relation to controls in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Evidence of the Effects of Dance Interventions on Adults Mental Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moratelli Jéssica Amaro , Veras Gabrielli , Lyra Vanessa Bellani , Silveira Juliana da , Colombo Rafael , de Azevedo Guimarães Adriana Coutinho
Published: June 2023

Background:

Recent research has shown that dancing takes effect directly in improving mental health, by reducing rates of depression, anxiety, and enhancing the mood aspects in people of any age.

Aim:

This systematic review aimed to search for evidence of the effects of dance interventions on adults’ mental health.

Methods:

The eligibility criteria of the studies were defined by following the PICOS strategy, considering the population, intervention, comparison, result, and the study design. Only randomized clinical trials, conducted in adults of both sexes, with results related to mental health, including depression and/or anxiety and/or stress and/or mood disorder were considered eligible for this review. The search was conducted using 5 databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect from 2005 to 2020. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias in randomized clinical trials. The synthesis and presentation of results followed the guidelines of the PRISMA model.

Results:

Of 425 selected studies, 10 randomized clinical trials were included in the review with a total of 933 participants between 18 and 62 years old. Studies included Dance Movement Therapy, Latin dance, tango, rumba, waltz, Nogma, quadrille, and Biodanza. The results indicate that regardless of style, adults who participated in dance interventions showed a reduction in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress compared to groups that did not participate in any type of intervention.

Discussion:

In general, studies showed an unclear risk of bias in most items assessed. Based on these studies, it is possible to assume that the practice of dance contributes positively to the maintenance or improvement of mental health in adults.
School, Online Communities and Creative Workshops as Spaces for Non-normative Pre-teen Gendered and Sexual Cultures
Authors: Puutio Eveliina , Pihkala Suvi , Lehtonen Jukka , Huuki Tuija
Published: June 2023

This study focuses on how space acts in shaping non-normative pre-teen gendered and sexual cultures. It was conducted in Northern Finland and consists of an arts-based case study of a group of 12- to 13-year-old students, who during our creative workshops on gender, sexuality and power reflected on the possibilities of gender and sexual diversity in their everyday lives. Inspired by feminist new materialist scholarship, which focuses on spatiality and materiality in co-constituting gendered and sexual meanings, in the analysis, we explore how school and social media—two central life spheres of today’s youth—act in affording distinct possibilities for transgressive gender and sexuality as well as attachments to LGBTIQ+ communities. Furthermore, the analysis indicates how non-normative relationalities can be supported in school-based creative workshops. By mapping how spaces co-constitute non-normative gender and sexuality, we can develop them to promote the sexual rights and welfare of young people.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of a digital Diabetes Prevention Program (dDPP) in prediabetic patients
Authors: Park Sooyeol , Ward Trevor , Sudimack Andrew , Cox Sam , Ballreich Jeromie
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To assess the cost-effectiveness of a digital Diabetes Prevention Program (dDPP) in preventing type 2 diabetes mellitus among prediabetic patients from a health system perspective over a 10-year time horizon.

Methods

A Markov cohort model was constructed to assess the cost-effectiveness of dDPP compared to a small group education (SGE) intervention. Transition probabilities for the first year of the model were derived from two clinical trials on dDPP. Transition probabilities for longer-term effects were derived from meta-analyses on lifestyle and Diabetes Prevention Program interventions. Cost and health utilities were derived from published literature. Partial completion of interventions was incorporated to provide a robust prediction of a real-world deployment. Parameter uncertainties were assessed using univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Cost-effectiveness was measured by an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) between dDPP and SGE from a health system perspective over a 10-year time horizon.

Results

The dDPP dominated the SGE at the $50,000, $100,000, and $150,000 willingness-to-pay thresholds per quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The base case analysis at the $100,000 willingness-to-pay threshold (WTP) revealed a dominated ICER, with the SGE costing $1332 more and accruing an average of 0.04 fewer QALYs. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that the dDPP was preferred in 64.4% of simulations across the $100,000 WTP thresholds.

Conclusions

The findings comparing a dDPP to an SGE suggest that a dDPP can be cost-effective for patients with a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Repositioning English and teaching practices in global Englishes: A critical perspective from Thai higher education
Authors: Boonsuk Yusop , Wasoh Fa-ezah , Ambele Eric A.
Published: June 2023

More English as a second language (ESL) and English as a foreign language (EFL) scholars are shifting attention to the Global Englishes (GE) paradigm and its attitudinal and functional impacts on English language education. Nevertheless, knowledge of this paradigm is seemingly unclear to many scholars, and there is an enormous knowledge gap on the practicality of GE implementation in Thai higher education. To minimize this gap, the current study explored the attitudes of 10 Thai EFL teachers in 10 universities across Thailand toward GE and the possibility of incorporating GE in teaching practices in Thai higher education. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews were analysed using content analysis. The results revealed that most participants had positive perceptions toward English varieties emerging from outer and expanding circles users with diverse linguacultural backgrounds even though their Englishes have distinctive linguistic features compared to inner circle Englishes. The participants further reported their non-opposition to incorporate GE in Thai higher education, mainly if such GE integration would introduce learners to the target cultures of different English varieties, transform performance assessment, introduce new learning materials of both local and global content, expose them to various English accents, and reformulate goals of English language teaching (ELT). This implies a need for a redesign of Thai higher education ELT policies and curriculums to incorporate the GE paradigm and English varieties from the inner, outer, and expanding circles while also avoiding any biases toward native English in teaching.
The “hidden side” of intergroup contact: The role of perceived social structure in motivating support for social change among the disadvantaged and the advantaged
Authors: Bobowik Magdalena , Zumeta Larraitz N. , Pizarro José J. , Basabe Nekane , Moreno Gorka
Published: June 2023

Intergroup contact is a powerful prejudice-reduction strategy, but research has also revealed its undesirable effects among the disadvantaged. To unravel these counterintuitive effects, we examine the explanatory role of sociostructural factors (permeability of group boundaries as well as stability and legitimacy of inequality) in the link between intergroup contact and both perceived group discrimination against the disadvantaged and support for collective action. We relied on quasirepresentative or nationwide samples of immigrants ( N = 1,539) and host nationals ( N = 838), who participated in two survey-based studies. Among the disadvantaged, contact was associated with less awareness of group discrimination and collective action intentions via more perceptions of permeability and/or stability. Among the advantaged, intergroup contact was associated with greater awareness of group discrimination and collective action intentions (primarily) via perceived illegitimacy of existing status disparities. Our findings elucidate the importance of structural factors in understanding the implications of intergroup contact in addressing inequality and inequity, as well as designing contact-based interventions.
I am anthropologist – But where is the field? On fieldwork, intimacy, and home
Authors: Gallinat Anselma
Published: June 2023

This article was prompted by a question: how can one be anthropologist when access to the field is denied? Drawing on the experiences of the author, who experienced a number of losses including access to the field during the COVID-19 pandemic, it shines a light on how, in a context of anthropology at home, intimate knowledge and memory fragments can be used to draw the field nearer when physical access is denied. In doing so, it reflects on how senses of home often go deeper than usually acknowledged. It suggests that knowledges produced at the hearths of homes become embodied aspects of ourselves that come into play especially in anthropology at home but that are always part and parcel of our engagement with the worlds around us. This in turn prompts the question of whether the old argument that fieldwork at home may preclude necessary analytical distance, still holds value.
Transferring Institutions in Different Modalities: Lessons from Undergraduates Across Stages of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Stearns Elizabeth
Published: June 2023

The broad-scale challenges that higher education undertook in response to the COVID-19 pandemic changed a great deal about the student experience. Ongoing throughout several semesters, those changes may have affected the ways that transfer students experienced transition to the 4-year university setting, with implications for student retention. Interviews with students who transferred from community colleges to a large research university at three different pandemic stages—in 2019, 2020, and 2021—reveal that some aspects of the transfer experience remained consistent, while others changed. Notably, students experienced university-level coursework as academically challenging regardless of its mode of delivery and reported finding a diversity of academic and social options at the university. Transferring into online coursework helped reduce the shock associated with large-enrollment classes and navigating a large campus. Students reported fewer issues overall with course delivery when taking solely online coursework. The paper closes with recommendations to increase transfer student retention.
The Value of Troponin Measurement in Carotid Revascularization: A Scoping Review
Authors: Jovanovic Ksenija , Trailovic Ranko , Jonsson Magnus , Capoccia Laura , Grego Franco , Stankovic Sanja , Stevanovic Predrag , Koncar Igor
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

Patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy (CEA) or carotid artery stenting (CAS) are at substantially increased risk of short-term and long-term cardiac complications. Still, the role of perioperative troponin in predicting cardiac events remains unclear. The objective was to systematically summarize the existing evidence on the topic and provide directions for further research.

Materials and Methods:

Studies that examined perioperative troponin values and its association with myocardial injury, and/or myocardial infarction (MI), and/or major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and postoperative mortality in exclusively CEA/CAS patients, published in English until March 15, 2022, were retrieved through a systematic search of MEDLINE and Web of Science. The study selection process was independently performed by 2 authors, while the third researcher resolved disagreements.

Results:

Four studies with 885 participants met the inclusion criteria. Age, chronic kidney disease, presentation of carotid disease, type of closure (primary closure/venous patch/Dacron/polytetrafluoroethylene patch), coronary artery disease, chronic heart failure, and the long-term use of calcium channel blockers represent risk factors for troponin elevation, which occurred in 11% to 15.3%. Myocardial infarction and MACE occurred in 23.5% to 40%, that is, 26.5% of patients with troponin elevation, respectively, during the first 30 postoperative days. Elevated postoperative troponin levels were significantly associated with adverse cardiac events during the long-term surveillance period. The rates of cardiac-related and all-cause mortality were higher in patients with postoperative troponin elevation.

Conclusion:

Troponin measurement could be helpful in the prediction of adverse cardiac events. The predictive role of preoperative troponin, the patient population in whom routine troponin sampling should be used, and a comparison of different treatment methods/anesthesia techniques in carotid patients should be further examined.

Clinical Impact

The present scoping review critically appraises the extent and nature of the existing literature data on the predictive value of troponin on the occurrence of cardiac complications in patients undergoing CEA and CAS. In particular, it provides clinicians with essential insights by systematically summarizing the core evidence and identifying knowledge gaps that may direct future research. This, in turn, may significantly alter the current clinical practice and perhaps even reduce the incidence of cardiac complications in patients undergoing CEA/CAS.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on Stenting for Aortic Coarctation Management in Adults
Authors: Nana Petroula , Spanos Konstantinos , Brodis Alexandros , Kouvelos George , Rickers Carsten , Kozlik-Feldmann Rainer , Giannoukas Athanasios , Kölbel Tilo
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

Endovascular treatment of aortic coarctation (CoA) constitutes a valuable alternative with low morbidity and mortality. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the technical success, re-intervention, and mortality after stenting for CoA in adults.

Materials and Methods:

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis statement and PICO (patient, intervention, comparison, outcome) model were followed. An English literature data search was conducted, using PubMed, EMBASE, and CENTRAL, until December 30, 2021. Only studies reporting on stenting, for native or recurrent CoA, in adults were included. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A proportional meta-analysis was performed to assess the outcomes. Primary outcomes were technical success, intra-operative pressure gradient and complications, and 30-day mortality.

Results:

Twenty-seven articles (705 patients) were included (64.0% males, 34.0±13.6 years). Native CoA was present in 65.7%. Technical success was 97% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96%–0.99%; p<0.001, I2=9.49%). Six (odds ratio [OR]: 1%; 95% CI, 0.00%–0.02%; p=0.002, I2=0%) ruptures and 10 dissections (OR: 2%; 95% CI, 0.001%–0.02%; p<0.001, I2=0%) were reported. The intra-operative and 30-day mortality were 1% (95% CI, 0.00%–0.02%; p=0.003, I2=0%) and 1% (95% CI, 0.00%–0.02%; p=0.004, I2=0%), respectively. The median follow-up was 29 months. Sixty-eight re-interventions (OR: 8%; 95% CI, 0.05%–0.10%; p<0.001, I2=35.99%) were performed; 95.5% were endovascular. Seven deaths were reported (OR: 2%; 95% CI, 0.00%–0.03%; p=0.008, I2=0%).

Conclusion:

Stenting for CoA in adults presents high technical success and the intra-operative and 30-day mortality rates were acceptable. During the midterm follow-up, the re-intervention rate was acceptable, and mortality was low.

Clinical Impact

Aortic coarctation is a quite common heart defect that may be diagnosed in adult patients, as a first diagnosis in native cases or as a recurrent after previous repair. Endovascular management using plain angioplasty has been associated to a high intra-operative complication and re-intervention rate. Stenting in this analysis seems to be safe and effective as is related a high technical success rate, exceeding 95%, with a low intra-operative complication and death rate. During the mid-term follow-up, the re-interventions rate is estimated at less than 10% while most cases are managed using endovascular means. Further analyses are needed on the impact of stent type on endovascular repair outcomes.
Explicating Workplace Backlash from Social Justice Perspective: A Systematic Review of Types, Consequences, and Coping Strategies
Authors: Lee Jin , Yi Jieun , Kang Hyounju
Published: June 2023

Compared to the relatively well-trodden concepts of other workplace mistreatments, workplace backlash has received little attention from HRD academics. Therefore, our primary research objective is to identify how workplace backlash manifests and how it is addressed in the HRD and relevant literature. Through the analysis of 40 empirical studies on workplace backlash, we identified three types of backlash: backlash against gender equality, backlash against work-family balance, and backlash against racial justice. Additionally, we identified the consequences of each type of backlash and the coping strategies used by victims. Based on the findings, we discussed them from the recent conversations on diversity and inclusiveness in HRD from a social justice perspective and found ways to overcome workplace backlash. This study provides meaningful insights for HRD professionals and helps to advance diversity and inclusiveness research in HRD.
Aperiodic Neural Activity is a Better Predictor of Schizophrenia than Neural Oscillations
Authors: Peterson Erik J. , Rosen Burke Q. , Belger Aysenil , Voytek Bradley , Campbell Alana M.
Published: June 2023

Diagnosis and symptom severity in schizophrenia are associated with irregularities across neural oscillatory frequency bands, including theta, alpha, beta, and gamma. However, electroencephalographic signals consist of both periodic and aperiodic activity characterized by the (1/fX) shape in the power spectrum. In this paper, we investigated oscillatory and aperiodic activity differences between patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls during a target detection task. Separation into periodic and aperiodic components revealed that the steepness of the power spectrum better-predicted group status than traditional band-limited oscillatory power in classification analysis. Aperiodic activity also outperformed the predictions made using participants’ behavioral responses. Additionally, the differences in aperiodic activity were highly consistent across all electrodes. In sum, compared to oscillations the aperiodic activity appears to be a more accurate and more robust way to differentiate patients with schizophrenia from healthy controls.
Target–distractor correlation does not imply causation of the Stroop effect
Authors: Spinelli Giacomo , Lupker Stephen J
Published: June 2023

In the Stroop task, the identities of the targets (e.g., colours) and distractors (e.g., words) used are often correlated. For example, in a list in which 4 words and 4 colours are combined to form 16 stimuli, each of the 4 congruent stimuli is typically repeated 3 times as often as each of the 12 incongruent stimuli. Some accounts of the Stroop effect suggest that in this type of list, often considered as a baseline because of the matching proportion of congruent and incongruent stimuli (50%), the word dimension actually receives more attention than it does in an uncorrelated list in which words and colours are randomly paired. This increased attention would be an important determinant of the Stroop effect in correlated situations, an idea supported by the observation that higher target–distractor correlation lists are associated with larger Stroop effects. However, because target–distractor correlation tends to be confounded with congruency proportion in common designs, the latter may be the crucial factor, consistent with accounts that propose that attention is adapted to the list’s congruency proportion. In four experiments, we examined the idea that target–distractor correlation plays a major role in colour–word Stroop experiments by contrasting an uncorrelated list with a correlated list matched on relevant variables (e.g., congruency proportion). Both null hypothesis significance testing and Bayesian analyses suggested equivalent Stroop effects in the two lists, challenging accounts based on the idea that target–distractor correlations affect how attention is allocated in the colour–word Stroop task.
The relationship between relative lower-body strength, sprint and change of direction ability in elite youth female soccer athletes
Authors: De Marco Kristen , Lyons Mikayla , Joyce Christopher , Conlon Jenny A
Published: June 2023

Soccer is described as a high-intensity, multidirectional sport requiring athletes to possess a high level of physical conditioning to compete at the elite level. Strength, linear sprint and change of direction (COD) abilities are key physical characteristics in soccer-specific performance, with research suggesting athletes who possess greater relative lower-body strength are superior in sprint and COD ability. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between relative lower-body strength with linear sprint and COD ability among elite youth female soccer athletes in Western Australia. Forty-four (U13, n  =  11; U14, n  =  12; U15, n  =  11; U19, n  =  10) athletes completed an isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), 30 m sprint and 505 COD test. Results demonstrated a significant moderate correlation between relative IMTP (IMTPr) performance and 10 m ( r  =  −0.315, p  =  0.037) and 30 m ( r  =  −0.0347, p  =  0.021) sprint time, however, there was no significant correlation between IMTPr performance and COD deficit ( r  =  −0.227, p  =  0.168). This study suggests that relative lower-body strength is moderately related to greater sprint performance but not COD ability in elite youth female soccer athletes. Overall, relative lower-body strength appears to be advantageous to linear sprint performance in elite youth female soccer athletes, and therefore the inclusion of appropriate and targeted strength training in the physical preparation and long-term athlete development of this demographic may be recommended.
Minimal clinically important difference of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire score and the pain visual analogue scale in conservative treatment of trigger finger
Authors: Atthakomol Pichitchai , Tongsu Rerkchai , Ngamsuprom Khunawuth , Wangtrakunchai Vorathep , Phinyo Phichayut , Manosroi Worapaka
Published: June 2023

We investigated the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (MHQ) and the pain visual analogue scale (VAS-pain) after conservative treatment of trigger finger. This secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial compared pain reduction, symptoms and functional improvement at 12 weeks. Patients included were at least 18 years old and able to complete MHQ and VAS-pain at enrolment and 12 weeks after treatment. The MCIDs of MHQ and VAS-pain were evaluated using a distribution-based, anchor-based and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve-based approach. Of the 117 patients, the MCIDs of MHQ and VAS-pain using a distribution-based approach were 5.3 and 0.6, respectively; applying ROC method were 23.5 and 2.5, respectively; and using anchor questions were 15 and 2, respectively. These MCID values by anchor-based method with a minimal difference of 15 for MHQ and 2 for VAS-pain are recommended as primary evidence to determine clinically significant improvement after conservative treatment of trigger finger.

Level of evidence: I
Flow diversion for posterior circulation aneurysms: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Qi Peng , Tong Xin , Liang Xin , Xue Xiaopeng , Wu Zhongxue , Feng Xin , Zhang Meng , Jiang Zhiqun , Wang Daming , Liu Aihua
Published: June 2023

Background:

The prevalence of intracranial aneurysms is approximately 3% worldwide. Posterior circulation (PC) aneurysms have a higher risk of treatment complications than anterior circulation aneurysms. Improving the survival rate and quality of life of patients with PC aneurysms remains one of the most important issues in the field.

Objectives:

Flow diverter (FD) treatment of PC aneurysms remains controversial. We aimed to investigate the effects of FD treatment and analyze differences among different application methods or aneurysm types in PC aneurysms.

Design:

This is a multicenter retrospective study.

Methods:

Patients with PC aneurysms treated with the pipeline embolization device (PED) or Tubridge embolization device (TED) between 2015 and 2020 in five neurovascular centers were retrospectively enrolled. The primary outcomes were major perioperative complication, clinical outcome, and aneurysm occlusion rates. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors of each outcome.

Results:

In total, 252 aneurysms were included. Major perioperative complication, favorable clinical outcome, and complete occlusion rates were 7.5%, 91.0%, and 79.1%, respectively. Compared with other types of aneurysms, dissecting aneurysms had the best clinical outcome and highest occlusion rate. Both clinical and angiographic outcomes were independently associated with the aneurysm location at the basilar artery. Aneurysm size was not associated with any outcome. TED had similar clinical and angiographic outcomes compared with PED but more perioperative major complications. Tandem treatment and coiling assistance may have poorer clinical outcomes but similar occlusion rates. Single- and multiple-stent treatments had similar outcomes.

Conclusion:

FD treatment of PC aneurysms achieved favorable clinical outcomes and long-term aneurysm occlusion rates with acceptable perioperative complication rates, especially in dissecting and non-basilar artery aneurysms. There was no additional improvement in outcomes with coiling assistance, multi-stent application, or tandem treatment. Therefore, the use of PC aneurysms should be carefully considered.
Kinematic modeling and analysis of transmission mechanism with joint clearance for flapping wing micro aerial vehicle
Authors: Fang Xin , Wu Jianghao , Du Feng
Published: June 2023

A theoretical model is built to reveal the effect of the joint clearance on the kinematic performance of the transmission mechanism of a flapping wing micro aerial vehicle (FWMAV). Massless link approach is used to model the joint clearance and the reciprocal screw is introduced to solve the kinematic model. Finite element method simulations are also performed to validate the model. The kinematic model reveals that the inertia force of the transmission mechanism contributes little to the flapping motion whereas the sign of the resultant moment of aerodynamic drag and wing inertia force plays decisive role. Besides, the joint clearance can either increase or decrease the flapping angle of the wing during a flapping period and it will significantly affect the flapping amplitude while involves little in the mean flapping angle. The effects of the positions of the joint with clearance and its magnitude on the flapping motion are also revealed.
Design propositions for nudging in healthcare: Adoption of national electronic health record systems
Authors: Steinhauser Stefanie , Raptis Georgios
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Electronic health records (EHRs) are considered important for improving efficiency and reducing costs of a healthcare system. However, the adoption of EHR systems differs among countries and so does the way the decision to participate in EHRs is presented. Nudging is a concept that deals with influencing human behaviour within the research stream of behavioural economics. In this paper, we focus on the effects of the choice architecture on the decision for the adoption of national EHRs. Our study aims to link influences on human behaviour through nudging with the adoption of EHRs to investigate how choice architects can facilitate the adoption of national information systems.

Methods

We employ a qualitative explorative research design, namely the case study method. Using theoretical sampling, we selected four cases (i.e., countries) for our study: Estonia, Austria, the Netherlands, and Germany. We collected and analyzed data from various primary and secondary sources: ethnographic observation, interviews, scientific papers, homepages, press releases, newspaper articles, technical specifications, publications from governmental bodies, and formal studies.

Results

The findings from our European case studies show that designing for EHR adoption should encompass choice architecture elements (i.e., defaults), technical elements (i.e., choice granularity and access transparency), and institutional elements (i.e., regulations for data protection, information campaigns, and financial incentives) in combination.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insights on the design of the adoption environments of large-scale, national EHR systems. Future research could estimate the magnitude of effects of the determinants.