bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Training on Addressing Farmer Mental Health in Occupational Therapy Practice
Authors: Morley Erin , Rohlman Diane , Cheyney Marsha , Lansing Anne
Published: September 2024

Farmers experience high rates of mental health conditions and suicide. It is within occupational therapy’s scope to address mental health conditions in patients as it pertains to their participation in meaningful occupations. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of training provided to occupational therapy practitioners and students on addressing farmer mental health. Participants were directly recruited from occupational therapy state associations and graduate programs in the American Midwest to attend a 1-hour presentation and complete pre- and post-training surveys. A total of 119 participants completed the pre- and post-training surveys. Both occupational therapy practitioners and students significantly increased their confidence in assessing and addressing mental health concerns and providing resources to farmers following the training. Occupational therapy–specific training can increase therapists’ confidence in addressing farmer mental health. Further research should assess multi-faceted interventions related to farmers’ mental health in occupational therapy practice.
Hierarchical Leader-Leader Fit: Examining Authentic Leader Dyads and Implications for Junior Leader Outcomes
Authors: Hannah Sean T. , Bluhm Dustin , Avolio Bruce J.
Published: September 2024

Leaders at lower levels do not lead in a vacuum; they must lead within the context of the leadership they experience themselves from their next higher-level leader. We propose that lower-level leaders’ thoughts and attitudes and thereby their behaviors are influenced by the level of compatibility of their own style of leadership with that of their senior leader. Drawing from person-environment fit theory, we propose the concept of hierarchical leader-leader fit by assessing the level of congruence between the authentic leadership style of senior and junior leader dyads, and the resulting effects of levels of (mis)fit on the junior leader's behaviors in the form of performance and deviance. In two samples inclusive of both business and military leaders, using polynomial regression and response surface analysis, we find that fit (misfit) between the senior leader's and junior leader's respective levels of authentic leadership in the dyad is positively (negatively) associated with the junior leader's performance and is negatively (positively) associated with the junior leader's deviance. Surprisingly, when two leaders have high levels of fit, we find similar desirable effects on performance and deviance regardless of whether both leaders practice low (low-low) or high (high-high) levels of authentic leadership. Theoretical and practical implications of the degree of fit between leaders operating at different organizational levels, and of leadership as a contextually embedded relationship are discussed.
Resilience and Vulnerability: Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Women Managing LGBTphobia in Rural Israel
Authors: Hartal Gilly , Levi Herz Rachel
Published: September 2024

Neoliberal discourses associate resilience with active stances and independence. Conceptualizing the relationship between vulnerability and resilience, this paper discusses lesbian, bisexual, and transgender (LBT) women’s experiences of LGBTphobia in Israeli rural space. Addressing the 67th Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) challenge to describe intersectional issues, this paper reveals alternative negotiations of LBT women’s vulnerabilities. Using a theory of vulnerability, we claim that LBT women express resilience even in situations of marginalization and vulnerability. The paper shows how resilience, embedded within vulnerability, is constructed through the management of LGBTphobia via three strategies: construction of alternative spaces, advocacy, and direct resistance to acts of violence.
How Masculinity Impedes African American Men From Seeking Mental Health Treatment
Authors: Johnson Arnai , Amonoo Leslie , Lofton Saria , Powell-Roach Keesha L.
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the pronounced mental health disparities faced by African American men, characterized by the heightened severity of mental health conditions and their reluctance to seek mental health treatment. Persistent neglect toward the mental health of African American men perpetuates systemic inequities and heightens the stigma surrounding mental well-being within their communities. This study investigates the interaction of masculinity, distrust in doctors, and parental support on attitudes influencing African American men’s reluctance to seek mental health care. A survey administered to 74 African American men revealed a negative correlation between masculinity and attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment. In contrast, no significant correlations were found between distrust in doctors and parental support on attitudes toward seeking mental health treatment. These findings were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation, underscoring the urgent need to address masculine norms in mental health discourse among African American men. Implications of the findings and future directions for masculinity in African American men are discussed.
Multi-Resolution Design: Using Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses to Recursively Zoom in and out of the Same Dataset
Authors: Gillespie Alex , Glăveanu Vlad , de Saint-Laurent Constance , Zittoun Tania , Bernal Marcos Marcos José
Published: September 2024

A recent challenge is how to mix qualitative interpretation with computational techniques to analyze big qualitative data. To this end, we propose “multi-resolution design” for mixed method analysis of the same data: qualitative analysis zooms-in to provide in-depth contextual insight and quantitative analysis zooms-out to provide measures, associations, and statistical models. The raw qualitative data is transformed between excerpts, counts, and measures; with each having unique gains and losses. Multi-resolution designs entail transforming the data back-and-forth between these data types, recursively quantitizing and qualitizing the data. Two empirical studies illustrate how multi-resolution design can support abductive inference and increase validity. This contributes to mixed methods literature a conceptualization of how mixed analysis of the same big qualitative dataset can create tightly integrated synergies.
Non-Linear Association Between Climatic Parameters and Bell’s Palsy Prevalence of Hospital Outpatients: An Ecological Proof in Kunshan, Suzhou, China
Authors: Zhang Lu-Yuan , Jiang Ming-Zhu , Li Dong-Mei , Gong Ya-Qin , Xia Yun-Yu , Wang Xiao-Chun , Lin Chen , Yan Shan-Jun , Lu Rong-Zhu , Li Chong
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to explore the relationship between climatic parameters and the daily cases of Bell’s palsy (BP) among hospital outpatients, providing ecological evidence for understanding BP etiology and prevention.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was conducted on data from 2187 BP patients who attended Kunshan First People’s Hospital Outpatient Clinic from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2022. Meteorological data, including temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed, sunshine duration, and atmospheric pressure, were collected and combined with daily BP case records. Additionally, air quality index was used as a covariate.

Results

The number of new BP cases among outpatients showed a negative correlation with average daily temperature. A nonlinear relationship between daily average temperature and BP cases was observed through the generalized additive model (GAM). A significant negative correlation was identified between daily average temperature and BP cases, with inflection points at temperatures above 4.2°C, suggesting a potential decrease in BP risk with temperature rise beyond this threshold.

Conclusion

This study provides ecological evidence of a link between climatic factors and BP occurrence. Temperature demonstrated a significant nonlinear negative correlation with daily BP incidence, highlighting temperature and cold exposure as key targets for BP prevention in Kunshan.
Surface and Depth in Sensory Ethnography: Casting Bodied Experience in an Arts-Based Interviewing Practice
Authors: Frankel Alexandra Vieux , Stern Eva-Marie , Fritsch Kelly , Berkhout Suze
Published: September 2024

Arts-based research can provide pivotal avenues for researchers and participants to explore experiences that are difficult to put into words. Arts-based methods offer important opportunities for participants to develop reflexive understanding through material interaction with art and mark-making supplies. While sensorial and embodied experiences are entangled with arts-based methods, there is little methodological and theoretical work that puts arts-based research methods into conversation with sensory ethnography. This methods paper provides a detailed, critical reflection on the development and implementation of the sensorial arts-based exercise, Beneath the Surface, for research that examines solid-organ transplant recipients’ embodied experiences through a crip/feminist/materialist framework. Adapted from art therapy practices, Beneath the Surface generated a novel context for the articulation of embodied experience, creating space for the expression of sensations and feelings that fall outside the dominant cultural narratives of transplant, such as the “gift of life” or a “second chance,” that demand absolute gratitude. Beneath the Surface contributes to theoretical discussions surrounding embodiment, inscription, and interiority. The exercise also demands attention to ethical deliberations, highlighting the critical importance of developing trauma-informed research protocols and addressing the historically fraught relationship between critical disability studies and art therapy.
Improved artificial potential field method based on robot local path information
Authors: Ren Chuanxiang , Fu Fangfang , Yin Changchang , Yan Zhenqiang , Zhang Renyan , Wang Zhen
Published: September 2024

The artificial potential field (APF) is an important method for robot path planning. However, some information in APF is not fully utilized in practical applications. In this paper, an improved artificial potential field (IAPF) method is presented, in which the local path information is defined and used. And the calculation formulas for various forces in IAPF are given, which include repulsive force (R-force) of obstacle on the robot, the attractive force (A-force) of target on the robot, and the resultant force of R-force and A-force. Then, based on the local path information, a method for solving the robot falling into local optimality problem is proposed and used into IAPF. Finally, IAPF is respectively simulated and discussed in general scenario, complex scenario, and scenarios with the same and different size of circular obstacles. The results show that IAPF has higher efficiency than traditional artificial potential field (TAPF) method and can overcome the local optimality problem. At the same time, IAPF is compared with dynamic window method in the scenarios with the same and different size of circular obstacles. The results show that IAPF is more efficient than the dynamic window approach (DWA) for robot path planning.
Review: Analysis and future prospects of adsorption techniques employed by wall-climbing
Authors: Guangqing Chen , Lei Zhang , Jinze Xin , Kunyuan Lu , Aiqin Sun , Yahui Chen , Liang Yuan
Published: September 2024

Based on the application of wall-climbing robots in recent years, this article classifies the existing wall-climbing robots in detail from the point of view of adsorption methods, systematically introduces the development status of various adsorption methods, and analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of various adsorption methods combined with application examples. Combined with the current research hotspot, the future development focus of adsorption method is analyzed. This article systematically analyzes the problems encountered by wall-climbing robots in wall movement, and provides a summary of key technologies. The problems of modular design are summarized, and the development direction of adsorption mode and moving unit is prospected.
Cultural criminology, counter-extremism and the contemporary far right
Authors: Karas Tony
Published: September 2024

This article draws together existing criminological work as well as developments from sociology, political science and media studies to argue that cultural criminology can offer a useful corrective to current ‘counter-extremist’ thinking about the contemporary far right. The first part of the article introduces the contemporary far right, describes how it differs from previous instances, and explains that this resurgent far-right movement has to date primarily been analysed through the lens of ‘counter-extremism’. The second part of the article problematises the concepts of ‘extremism’, ‘radicalisation’ and ‘terrorism’. The article argues that these concepts are ambiguous, imprecise and normative, and that they are freighted with ideological baggage and unsupported by empirical evidence. The third part of the article argues that cultural criminology can better inform our understanding of the contemporary far right owing to its focus on subculture and style, its attendance to networked digital media and its foregrounding of emotion and affect. The article concludes by outlining a tentative programme for cultural criminological research into the contemporary far right.
Diet and the gut microbiota-immune axis in the context of perinatal mental health: Protocol for a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wallace Caroline JK , Audet Marie-Claude
Published: September 2024

Background:

Physiological and psychosocial changes experienced by women during the perinatal period may put them at risk for postpartum mental health disturbances. Accumulating evidence suggests that dietary patterns may influence mental health through the modulation of the gut microbiota and its effects on host immune activity. Thus, targeting the gut microbiota via dietary intake could serve as both a preventative and therapeutic strategy in improving perinatal mental health.

Objectives:

Here, we present a protocol for a prospective cohort study that primarily aims to determine if diet quality during pregnancy is protective against postpartum depression severity. Secondary objectives will examine if microbiota- and blood-based inflammatory markers may be associated with the relationship between prenatal diet quality and postpartum depression severity, as well as with associations between additional dietary and mental health outcomes.

Methods and Analysis:

Dietary patterns and mental health symptoms will be documented in 100 pregnant women at 4 time points during pregnancy and postpartum. Participants will also provide stool and blood samples at the same time points to determine microbiota composition and predicted function and inflammatory factors, respectively. Stool microbiota will be analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing and bioinformatics tools (QIIME 2/PICRUSt2). Inflammatory factors will be determined using high-sensitivity antibody-based immunoassays. Statistical analyses will include linear mixed models and hierarchical linear mixed effect models.

Ethics:

The study was approved by the Research Ethics Boards of the Royal Ottawa Health Care Group (#2022002) and of the University of Ottawa (#H-06-22-8013). Informed consent will be obtained from all participants before their enrollment.

Discussion:

Findings from this study will help develop evidence-based dietary recommendations and potential interventions for women susceptible to or suffering from postpartum mental health issues that are accessible, noninvasive, and have potential to play a role in prevention and treatment.
Vascular cognitive impairment and dementia: Mechanisms, treatment, and future directions
Authors: Mok Vincent Chung Tong , Cai Yuan , Markus Hugh S
Published: September 2024

Worldwide, around 50 million people live with dementia, and this number is projected to triple by 2050. It has been estimated that 20% of all dementia cases have a predominant cerebrovascular pathology, while perhaps another 20% of vascular diseases contribute to a mixed dementia picture. Therefore, the vascular contribution to dementia affects 20 million people currently and will increase markedly in the next few decades, particularly in lower- and middle-income countries.

In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) and review management. VCI refers to the spectrum of cerebrovascular pathologies that contribute to any degree of cognitive impairment, ranging from subjective cognitive decline, to mild cognitive impairment, to dementia. While acute cognitive decline occurring soon after a stroke is the most recognized form of VCI, chronic cerebrovascular disease, in particular cerebral small-vessel disease, can cause insidious cognitive decline in the absence of stroke. Moreover, cerebrovascular disease not only commonly co-occurs with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and increases the probability that AD pathology will result in clinical dementia, but may also contribute etiologically to the development of AD pathologies.

Despite its enormous health and economic impact, VCI has been a neglected research area, with few adequately powered trials of therapies, resulting in few proven treatments. Current management of VCI emphasizes prevention and treatment of stroke and vascular risk factors, with most evidence for intensive hypertension control. Reperfusion therapies in acute stroke may attenuate the risk of VCI. Associated behavioral symptoms such as apathy and poststroke emotionalism are common. We also highlight novel treatment strategies that will hopefully lead to new disease course-modifying therapies. Finally, we highlight the importance of including cognitive endpoints in large cardiovascular prevention trials and the need for an increased research focus and funding for this important area.
Does having a patient attend a postpartum vascular risk reduction clinic improve physician knowledge and management of preeclampsia as a cardiovascular risk factor?
Authors: Rasmuson Jaslyn , Sia Winnie
Published: September 2024

Background

Preeclampsia is an independent risk factor for vascular diseases. The Postpartum Preeclampsia Clinic (PPPC) intervenes in the first year postpartum to address these risks. This study aims to characterize physicians’ understanding and management of the cardiovascular risk associated with preeclampsia and whether this differs in physicians who had a patient attend the PPPC.

Methods

Family physicians, obstetricians, internists, obstetric internists, and cardiologists in Edmonton were anonymously surveyed. Results were analyzed using SPSS.

Results

Sixty-four surveys were returned, with physicians correctly identifying preeclampsia as a vascular risk factor 73% of the time. Physicians who had a patient attend the PPPC were more likely to counsel patients on their increased cardiovascular risk, although increased knowledge did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

Vascular risk reduction clinics may benefit the long-term management of patients with a history of preeclampsia by improving counseling by physicians, which may reduce the disproportionate vascular morbidity these patients face.
Retirement Concepts as Predictors of Preretirement Consideration and Planning
Authors: Bačová Viera , Kohút Michal , Halama Peter
Published: September 2024

This study explores how different conceptualizations of retirement—New Beginning, Continuation, Imposed Disruption, and Transition to Old Age—affect retirement consideration and planning while controlling for demographic and work-related variables. In a sample of Slovak preretirees ( N = 332, Mage = 54.84, SD = 3.67 years, all working full-time), three of the retirement concepts were significant predictors of retirement consideration and planning. The New Beginning concept positively influenced both retirement consideration and planning. In contrast, the Continuation concept negatively impacted retirement consideration, with no significant effect on retirement planning. The Imposed Disruption concept positively predicted retirement consideration and planning, although the mechanisms driving engagement differed from those in the New Beginning concept. The Transition to the Old Age concept did not significantly predict retirement consideration or planning. These findings highlight the importance of understanding individual retirement concepts when discussing retirement planning and consideration. Consequently, preretirement interventions should focus on personalized approaches that reflect employees’ unique retirement concepts and needs, supporting healthy pathways to retirement.
Gait Characteristics and Deviation Factors of Backward Walking in Patients With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Zhang Lei , Liu Tianyu , Zhou Xin , Chen Junyao , Zhang Haopeng , Leng Rao , Shi Houyin , Wang Guoyou
Published: September 2024

Background:

Despite growing applications of backward walking (BW) in assessing and rehabilitating neuromuscular conditions, its effects on gait in chronic ankle instability (CAI) remain unclear. Moreover, linking patient-reported and clinically generated measures is imperative for understanding CAI.

Hypotheses:

Patients with CAI will exhibit worse and compensatory spatio-temporal and kinetic gait parameters during BW, and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) will be correlated significantly with gait parameters.

Study Design:

Case-control study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

A total of 46 volunteers participated (23 per group). Patients filled out scales for pain, functions, and fear-avoidance beliefs before testing. All participants walked 6 times each in both forward and backward conditions, and gait was recorded using the Win-Track system. A 2-way mixed analysis of variance was performed to compare gait parameters. The relationship between PRO and gait outcomes was assessed through the Pearson product correlation coefficient.

Results:

The CAI group demonstrated prolonged support and swing phases, increased walk-off angle, and plantar pressure area, but decreased step length and plantar pressure versus controls ( P < 0.05). The CAI group had a smaller right walk-off angle during BW than FW; the control group showed the opposite ( P < 0.05). The left single stance duration was greater in the CAI group, while the right was not ( P < 0.05). PRO correlated significantly with gait parameters, particularly spatial parameters ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The CAI group exhibited worse gait parameters during BW. The CAI group exhibited a characteristic compensatory gait pattern. Linking the self-reported scores provides a better representation of gait changes in CAI.

Clinical Relevance:

These results suggest that BW may be an effective strategy for identifying and evaluating CAI. It may be feasible to apply BW to the rehabilitation of CAI.
Bottom-up actions: Examining perceived influence of pandemic news, information relevance, perceived media credibility, and pro-community participation
Authors: Tu Caixie , Li Xigen
Published: September 2024

Objective

When hyper-infectious diseases sweep over the world, pro-community participation has been found to effectively curb the spread of viruses. This study explores the associations among media-related perceptions and media users’ pro-community participation during the peak of the 2022 COVID-19 outbreaks in China.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 976 Chinese media users in April 2022 to collect data on their pro-community participation and perceptions of pandemic news influence, information relevance, and credibility of traditional media and social media. Hierarchical regression analyses were run to analyze the associations between these perceptual variables and pro-community participation.

Results

The findings revealed that information relevance was positively associated with perceived news influence on oneself and pro-community participation. Perceived credibility of traditional media was positively associated with perceived news influence on both oneself and others. Perceived credibility of social media was positively associated with perceived news influence on others. Additionally, perceived credibility of traditional media positively moderated the association between information relevance and perceived news influence on others.

Conclusions

Information relevance and perceived media credibility play significant roles in shaping media user’ perceptions of news influence and their subsequent pro-community behaviors. Higher perceived media credibility can produce a broader impact on perceived news influence on both media users themselves and others, highlighting its importance in public health communication strategies. These insights can inform media practices and public health policies to enhance community participation during public health crises.
Mediated Sexual and Romantic Learning on TikTok: The Dating Wrapped Trend
Authors: Mendelson Emily A. , Smith Jacob Kenton
Published: September 2024

The Dating Wrapped trend on TikTok takes inspiration from Spotify’s annual Wrapped event where Spotify users are presented with their year-end listening statistics. Dating Wrapped repackages fundamental components of Spotify’s Wrapped—a focus on aesthetics, PowerPoint-like presentation of information, and quantification of personal experiences—but does so in the context of interpersonal relationships as a dating year-in-review video on TikTok. This article applies a content analysis and critical thematic analysis to 54 TikTok videos with the hashtag DatingWrapped as a way to understand how sensemaking about sexual and romantic relationships occurs when individuals create content centered around self-disclosures of intimate experiences. Ultimately, we argue that trends such as Dating Wrapped provide opportunities for personal expression among emerging adults who use TikTok, the efficacy of which is enhanced by attention to data visualization within its presentation format. Second, TikTok trends centered around interpersonal relationships may influence the formation of sexual and romantic identities through processes of mediated learning about relationships.
Disability Expertise and Large Language Models: A Qualitative Study of Autistic TikTok Creators’ Use of ChatGPT
Authors: McNally Kellan , Wright Kathryn , Goldkind Lauri , Kattari Shanna K. , Victor Bryan G.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to describe how autistic TikTok creators are using ChatGPT across various domains of their lives, their motivations for doing so, and resulting impacts. Using a framework of “disability expertise,” we document the knowledge that creators acquired through use of ChatGPT and then shared with peers via social media. We used deductive qualitative methods to analyze 25 TikTok videos from 25 unique creators. Themes were identified in connection with motivations for the use of ChatGPT, settings in which it was used, applications of this technology, and resulting impacts for creators. Findings indicate that autistic creators were motivated to use ChatGPT to navigate neurotypical environments, manage features of their neurodivergence, and unmask, with the technology often serving as a digital coach, communication assistant, and conversational partner. Use of ChatGPT resulted in harm reduction, time and energy savings, positive emotional experiences, and meaningful accomplishments in both personal and professional settings. These findings indicate that ChatGPT serves as an important resource for many autistic individuals, facilitating accommodations to often inaccessible environments and helping users manage stressors and pursue goals. The study also highlights the significance of social media platforms for disseminating disability expertise related to the use of large language models to improve quality of life.
Impact of Wearable Device-Based Walking Programs on Gait Speed in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lai Ping , Zhang Jing , Lai Qing , Li Jinfeng , Liang Zhengbo
Published: September 2024

Background

As walking abilities are widely affected among the aging population, investigating the effectiveness of wearable device-based walking programs is essential. The intentions of this meta-analysis were to investigate their effects on gait speed among older adults, as well as to include subgroup analysis to evaluate potential effects on individuals with aging-related conditions such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) and stroke.

Methods

Systematic retrieval of Pubmed, The Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science databases were searched up to February 2024. Outcomes such as gait speed, balance, cadence, and stride length were extracted and analyzed. Study quality was evaluated using the Rob 2 tool and heterogeneity was tested using I2 statistics through STATA 16.

Results

Nine studies with 284 participants were analyzed. The intervention group showed a significant improvement in gait speed (weighted mean difference (WMD) 0.12; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.21). There is a subgroup analysis suggesting differential effects: significant improvements in PD and stroke subgroups, but not in the normal aging group. Balance (WMD: 1.93; 95% CI: 0.20 to 3.66) and stride length (WMD: 8.58; 95% CI: 3.04 to 14.12) were also shown to improve, but the heterogeneity across the studies was moderate (I2 = 63.91%). No significant changes were observed in the Timed Up and Go test, Gait Variability, and Step Width.

Conclusions

Wearable device-based walking programs improve gait speed in older adults, with top notch advantages in the ones tormented by PD or stroke. These findings advocate that such interventions can be a valuable part of individualized treatment strategies in geriatric care, aiming to enhance mobility and usual satisfactory of existence.
Assessment of Subnutritional Indices and Associated Risk Factors of Malnutrition Among Older Adults
Authors: Isong Idongesit KokoAbasi , Emmanuel Kingsley John , Abam Glory Okoi , Bassey Iya Eze , Jackson Mercy Etim , Obadare Unwana Paul , KokoAbasi Ifure Uwem
Published: September 2024

Malnutrition is a multifactorial problem affecting older adults especially in developing countries like Nigeria. Eighty-five subjects which comprise 55 older adults and 30 controls were recruited. Total protein, Albumin, Calcium, Vitamin-C and Vitamin D were estimated using Biuret’s method, Bromo-Cresol Green method, O-Cresolphthalein-Complexone, High performance liquid chromatography, and ELISA methods respectively. Cognitive and nutritional status information were obtained using Mini-Cog test and MNA-short form. Data were analyzed at p < .05. Activities of daily living (ADL) was observed to be associated with nutritional status in older adults. The prevalence of older adults at risk of malnutrition was found to be 58.2%. Blood pressure, albumin and total protein were significantly higher in older adults ( p < .05) compared to the younger adults. Total protein was significantly higher in older female subjects ( p < .05) compared to older male subjects. It was also significantly higher in non- institutionalized older adults than in those who were institutionalized. Calf circumference was significantly lower ( p < .05) in those with poor cognitive status. BMI and calcium were significantly lower in the malnourished older adults. It is concluded that older adults who are dependent, most of which are institutionalized may be more exposed to malnutrition, frailty and cognitive impairment.
Cacao Ameliorates Amyloid Beta-Induced Cognitive and Non-Cognitive Disturbances
Authors: Basir Hamid Shokati , Mirazi Naser , Komaki Alireza , Ramezani Mahdi , Hosseini Abdolkarim
Published: September 2024

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by a wide range of cognitive and non-cognitive impairments. The present study was designed to investigate the potential effects of cacao on cognitive and non-cognitive performance and to identify the role of oxidative stress in an AD animal model induced by unilateral intracerebroventricular (U-ICV) injection of amyloid beta1-42 (Aβ1-42).

Methods:

Oral administration of cacao (0.5 g/kg/day) was performed for 60 consecutive days. Following 60 days, the open-field (OF) test, elevated plus-maze (EPM) test, novel object recognition (NOR) test, Barnes maze (BM) test, and Morris water maze (MWM) test were used to evaluate locomotor activity, anxiety-like behavior, recognition memory, and spatial memory, respectively. Total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in plasma were also examined. Furthermore, the number of healthy cells in the hippocampus’s dentate gyrus (DG), CA1, and CA3 regions were identified using hematoxylin and eosin staining.

Results:

The results indicated that the injection of Aβ1-42 in rats led to recognition memory and spatial memory impairments, as well as increased anxiety. This was accompanied by decreased total antioxidant capacity (TAC), increased total oxidative stress (TOS), and increased neuronal death. Conversely, cacao treatment in AD rats improved memory function, reduced anxiety, modulated oxidative stress balance, and decreased neuronal death.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that cacao’s ability to improve the balance between oxidants and antioxidants and prevent neuronal loss may be the mechanism underlying its beneficial effect against AD-related cognitive and non-cognitive impairments.
Laparoscopic Type IV Hiatal Hernia Repair in the Elective and Emergency Settings, Clinical Presentation, Outcomes, and Same-Day Surgery in Elective Repairs
Authors: Pineau Sylvestre , Turangan Raymar , Hoffman Clarissa , Mai Megan , Banki Farzaneh
Published: September 2024

Objective:

We aimed to compare the outcomes of laparoscopic type IV hiatal hernia repairs in elective and emergent settings and assess the feasibility of same-day surgery (SDS) in elective repairs.

Methods:

SDS was defined as discharge on the day of the procedure. The feasibility of SDS in elective repairs was assessed.

Results:

There were 265 primary type IV hernia repairs: 208/265 (78.5%) elective versus 57/265 (21.5%) in emergent settings, age:70.0 (64.0-75.0) versus 73.0 (60.8-82.0), P = .059, BMI: 30.1 (26.6-33.8) versus 27.5 (24.4-32.4), P = .025, ASA IV: 5/208 (2.4%) versus 11/57 (19.3%), P < .001, LOS:1 (0-2) versus 2 (1-4), P < .001, 30-day mortality: 0/208 (0.0%) versus 2/57 (3.5%), P = .046. SDS was planned in 83/208 (39.9%) elective procedures and performed in 65/83 (78.3%); 18/83 (21.7%) were transitioned from SDS to observation/inpatient. NGT was attempted in 18/57 (31.6%) in emergent setting and was successful in 5/5 at the bedside and 11/13 (84.6%) endoscopically. Ischemia was seen in 4/57 (7.0%) in emergent settings and perforation in 1/4. Time from surgical consultation to arrival to the OR in patients without ischemia/perforation/obstructive gastric volvulus (n = 50) was 57.9 hours (44.0-79.7) versus 5.5 hours (4.1-8.9) in those with, (n = 7).

Conclusion:

Type IV hiatal hernia can be repaired laparoscopically with good outcomes in elective and emergent settings and as SDS in elective repairs. Emergent presentations can occur in about 20% of type IV hernias in older patients with lower BMI and higher ASA. Ischemia/perforation are rare. Emergent presentations without ischemia/perforation can be treated with gastric decompression and urgent repair during the same admission.
Designing a Perioperative Mind-Body Intervention for Peripheral Vascular Interventions
Authors: Png Chien Yi Maximilian , Mehta Darshan H. , Dua Anahita , Stephen Antonia E , Bruce Alex M. , Forsythe Aynsley , Chitilian Hovig V. , Bringle Erik J. , Simpson James C. , Parady Katherine M. , McNeil Lisa A. , Baim Margaret A. , Eagleton Matthew J. , Chang David C. , Yeh Gloria Y.
Published: September 2024

Background

Peripheral vascular interventions (PVIs) performed under procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) can be associated with anxiety and poor compliance with patient instructions during surgery. Mind-body interventions (MBIs) such as meditation have demonstrated the potential to decrease perioperative anxiety, though this area is understudied, and no tailored interventions have been developed for the vascular surgical patient population.

Objectives

We aimed to design a perioperative MBI that specifically targeted vascular surgical patients undergoing PVIs under PSA. We sought to perform this in a scientifically rigorous, multi-disciplinary collaborative manner.

Methods

Following the Obesity-Related Behavioral Intervention Trials (ORBIT) model, we designed (Phase 1a) and then refined (Phase 1b) a MBI for patients undergoing PVIs under PSA to decrease perioperative anxiety and sedation and facilitate patient intraoperative compliance. Phase 1a involved a literature review, informal information gathering and synthesis, and drafting a preliminary protocol for a perioperative MBI. Phase 1b involved assembling a multi-disciplinary expert panel of perioperative and mind-body clinicians and researchers to improve the MBI using an iterative, modified Delphi approach.

Results

The modified Delphi process was completed, and a consensus was reached after three iterations. The resulting MBI consisted of two seven-minute preoperative guided meditations on the day of surgery, including diaphragmatic breathing, body scans, and guided imagery emphasizing awareness of the ipsilateral leg where the vascular surgery was performed. A document delineating the integration of the MBI into the operating room workflow was produced, including details regarding the intervention’s timing, duration, and modality.

Conclusion

Using a multi-specialty expert panel, we designed a novel MBI in the form of a guided meditation with elements of mindfulness and guided imagery to decrease anxiety and increase intraoperative compliance for patients undergoing PVIs under PSA. A prospective pilot study is being planned to test the program’s feasibility.
Sex-specific molecular signature of mouse podocytes in homeostasis and in response to pharmacological challenge with rapamycin
Authors: Al-Diab Ola , Sünkel Christin , Blanc Eric , Catar Rusan Ali , Ashraf Muhammad Imtiaz , Zhao Hongfan , Wang Pinchao , Rinschen Markus M. , Fritsche-Guenther Raphaela , Grahammer Florian , Bachmann Sebastian , Beule Dieter , Kirwan Jennifer A. , Rajewsky Nikolaus , Huber Tobias B. , Gürgen Dennis , Kusch Angelika
Published: September 2024

Background

Sex differences exist in the prevalence and progression of major glomerular diseases. Podocytes are the essential cell-type in the kidney which maintain the physiological blood-urine barrier, and pathological changes in podocyte homeostasis are critical accelerators of impairment of kidney function. However, sex-specific molecular signatures of podocytes under physiological and stress conditions remain unknown. This work aimed at identifying sexual dimorphic molecular signatures of podocytes under physiological condition and pharmacologically challenged homeostasis with mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibition. mTOR is a crucial regulator involved in a variety of physiological and pathological stress responses in the kidney and inhibition of this pathway may therefore serve as a general stress challenger to get fundamental insights into sex differences in podocytes.

Methods

The genomic ROSAmT/mG-NPHS2 Cre mouse model was used which allows obtaining highly pure podocyte fractions for cell-specific molecular analyses, and vehicle or pharmacologic treatment with the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin was performed for 3 weeks. Subsequently, deep RNA sequencing and proteomics were performed of the isolated podocytes to identify intrinsic sex differences. Studies were supplemented with metabolomics from kidney cortex tissues.

Results

Although kidney function and morphology remained normal in all experimental groups, RNA sequencing, proteomics and metabolomics revealed strong intrinsic sex differences in the expression levels of mitochondrial, translation and structural transcripts, protein abundances and regulation of metabolic pathways. Interestingly, rapamycin abolished prominent sex-specific clustering of podocyte gene expression and induced major changes only in male transcriptome. Several sex-biased transcription factors could be identified as possible upstream regulators of these sexually dimorphic responses. Concordant to transcriptomics, metabolomic changes were more prominent in males. Remarkably, high number of previously reported kidney disease genes showed intrinsic sexual dimorphism and/or different response patterns towards mTOR inhibition.

Conclusions

Our results highlight remarkable intrinsic sex-differences and sex-specific response patterns towards pharmacological challenged podocyte homeostasis which might fundamentally contribute to sex differences in kidney disease susceptibilities and progression. This work provides rationale and an in-depth database for novel targets to be tested in specific kidney disease models to advance with sex-specific treatment strategies.
Biomarkers in acute kidney injury
Authors: Ostermann Marlies , Legrand Matthieu , Meersch Melanie , Srisawat Nattachai , Zarbock Alexander , Kellum John A.
Published: September 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a multifactorial syndrome with a high risk of short- and long-term complications as well as increased health care costs. The traditional biomarkers of AKI, serum creatinine and urine output, have important limitations. The discovery of new functional and damage/stress biomarkers has enabled a more precise delineation of the aetiology, pathophysiology, site, mechanisms, and severity of injury. This has allowed earlier diagnosis, better prognostication, and the identification of AKI sub-phenotypes. In this review, we summarize the roles and challenges of these new biomarkers in clinical practice and research.
Equipoise Lost? Trial Conduct Challenges in an Era of Breakthrough Therapies
Authors: Fallah Jaleh , Mulkey Flora , Fiero Mallorie H. , Gittleman Haley , Song Chi , Puthiamadathil Jeevan , Amatya Anup , Agrawal Sundeep , Vellanki Paz , Suzman Daniel L. , Singh Harpreet , Amiri-Kordestani Laleh , Mishra-Kalyani Pallavi , Pazdur Richard , Kluetz Paul G.
Published: September 2024

FDA Oncology Center's @Falleh_Fallah and colleagues discuss loss of equipoise and other trial conduct challenges in an era of breakthrough therapies - via @JCO_ASCO.
Chemogenetic Activation of RFRP Neurons Reduces LH Pulse Frequency in Female but not Male Mice
Authors: Sawyer India L , Evans Maggie C , Mamgain Asha , Decourt Caroline , Iremonger Karl J , Anderson Greg M
Published: September 2024

Context

The neuropeptide RFRP-3 (RFamide-related peptide-3) is thought to play a role in the negative regulation of fertility. However, the exogenous administration of RFRP-3 yields varying results depending on the dose and route of administration, sex of the subject, and many other variables. Manipulation of in vivo neuronal activity using DREADDs (designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drugs) technology enables investigation of cell type–specific neuronal activation in a manner that better reflects endogenous neuronal activity.

Objective

To test the effects of RFRP neuronal activation on pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion.

Methods

We generated mice expressing the stimulatory hM3Dq designer receptor exclusively in RFRP cells using 2 different Cre-loxP–mediated approaches: (1) we bred mice to express hM3Dq in all Rfrp-Cre-expressing cells, including some that transiently expressed Rfrp-Cre neonatally (RFRP × hM3Dq mice), and (2) we stereotaxically injected Cre-dependent hM3Dq into the dorsomedial nucleus of RFRP-Cre mice to drive hM3Dq expression exclusively in a subpopulation of adult Rfrp-Cre neurons (RFRP-AAV-hM3Dq mice). We then investigated the effects of acute hM3Dq activation on LH pulse frequency in RFRP × hM3Dq mice, RFRP-AAV-hM3Dq mice, and their respective controls.

Results

In both female RFRP × hM3Dq and RFRP-AAV-hM3Dq mice, chemogenetic activation of Cre-driven hM3Dq led to a significant 35% to 50% reduction in LH pulse frequency compared with controls, while no differences in pulse amplitude or mean LH concentration were observed. In marked contrast, RFRP activation did not cause any changes to LH pulse dynamics in male mice.

Conclusions

These data show for the first time that activation of neurons that have expressed Rfrp, or of a subset of adult RFRP neurons, can independently suppress LH pulsatility in female, but not male mice.
Is Anxiety related to oral examination scores of Anatomy and Physiology? A study of pre-clinical MBBS and BDS Students
Authors: Surti Ambreen , Usmani Ambreen , Sarfraz Muhammad Raza , Shakoor Shazia
Published: September 2024

Objective: To assess anxiety levels among 1st and 2nd year MBBS and 1st year BDS students in oral examinations of anatomy and physiology and to compare the anxiety scores among students of 1st and 2nd year MBBS and 1st year BDS.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 231 undergraduate (MBBS and BDS) students of University from Karachi durning December 2022 to May 2023. Westside anxiety scale was used to assess anxiety levels in students and the scores were compared with oral examination scores using One-way analysis of variance.
Results: Extremely high levels of anxiety was noted in relation to oral examination of Anatomy with a mean score of 25±3.801 while a mean of 30.00±5.170 was noted in Physiology in BDS students. However, significant results were observed on comparing Anatomy and Physiology oral examination scores among 1st and 2nd year students.
Conclusion: In summary higher levels of test anxiety, especially for oral examinations was observed in MBBS students as compared to BDS students. It was also observed that anxiety levels were much higher for Anatomy oral examinations as compared to those for Physiology.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8544
How to cite this: Surti A, Usmani A, Sarfraz MR, Shakoor S. Is Anxiety related to oral examination scores of Anatomy and Physiology? A study of pre-clinical MBBS and BDS Students. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8544
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