bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical Approach and Dislocation Risk After Hemiarthroplasty in Geriatric Patients With Femoral Neck Fracture With and Without Cognitive Impairments—Does Cognitive Impairment Influence Dislocation Risk?
Authors: Page Brian Joseph , Parsons Miles Stanley , Lee Josh Ho-sung , Dennison Joel Graham , Hammonds Kendall Pye , Brennan Kindyle Losey , Lee Brennan Michael , Lee Stahl Dan
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

To determine whether there is an association between surgical approach and dislocation risk in patients with cognitive impairment compared with those without cognitive impairment treated with hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Setting:

Large, multicenter health system.

Patients/Participants:

One thousand four hundred eighty-one patients who underwent hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fractures. 828 hips met inclusion criteria, 290 (35.0%) were cognitively impaired, and 538 (65.0%) were cognitively intact.

Intervention:

Hemiarthroplasty.

Main Outcome Measure:

Prosthetic hip dislocation.

Results:

The overall dislocation rate was 2.1% (17 of 828), 3.4% (10 of 290) in the cognitively impaired group, and 1.3% (7 of 538) in the cognitively intact group with a median time to dislocation of 20.5 days (range 2–326 days), 24.5 days (range 3–326 days), and 19.0 days (range 2–36 days), respectively. In the entire cohort, there were no dislocations (0 of 58) with the direct anterior approach (DA); 1.1% (6 of 553) and 5.1% (11 of 217) dislocated with the modified Hardinge (MH) and posterior approaches (PA), respectively. In the cognitively impaired group, there were no dislocations with the DA (0 of 19); 1.5% (3 of 202) and 10.1% (7 of 69) dislocated with the MH and PA, respectively. In the cognitively intact group, there were no dislocations (0 of 39) with the DA; 0.85% (3 of 351) and 2.7% (4 of 148) dislocated with the MH and PA, respectively. There were statistically significant associations between surgical approach and dislocation in the entire cohort and the cognitively impaired group when comparing the MH and PA groups. This was not observed in the cognitively intact group. Patients who dislocated had 3.2 times (95% CI 1.2, 8.7) (P = 0.0226) the hazard of death compared with patients who did not dislocate. Dislocation effectively increased the risk of death by 221% (HR 3.2 95% CI 1.2, 8.7) (P = 0.0226).

Conclusions:

In this patient population, the PA has a higher dislocation rate than other approaches and has an especially high rate of dislocation when the patients were cognitively impaired. The authors of this study suggest careful consideration of surgical approach when treating these injuries.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Safety of Prepping the External Fixator In Situ During Staged Internal Fixation of Pilon Fractures: A Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study
Authors: Yeramosu Teja , Young Porter , Cinats David J. , Toney Clarence B. , Satpathy Jibanananda , Patel Tejas T. , Kates Stephen L. , Perdue Paul W.
Published: April 2023

Objective:

(1) To assess the rate of fracture-related infection (FRI) and unplanned reoperation of disinfecting and prepping in the external fixator (Ex-Fix) instrument during definitive open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of pilon fractures treated by a staged protocol and (2) to determine whether the amount of time from external fixation to ORIF influences the risk of FRI.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Level 1 academic trauma center.

Patients:

One hundred thirty-three patients who underwent operative treatment for pilon fracture between 2010 and 2020.

Intervention:

External fixation and ORIF with or without the Ex-Fix prepped in situ during definitive fixation.

Main Outcome Measurements:

FRI and unplanned reoperation rates.

Results:

133 patients were enrolled, of which 47 (35.3%) had Ex-Fix elements prepped in situ. There was an overall infection rate of 23.3% and unplanned reoperation rate of 11.3%, and there was no significant difference in rates between the 2 cohorts. Patients with Ex-Fix elements prepped in situ who developed an FRI had a higher rate of MRSA and MSSA. Diabetes (P = 0.0019), open fracture (P = 0.0014), and longer (≥30 days) interval to ORIF (P = 0.0001) were associated with postoperative FRI.

Conclusions:

Prepping elements of the Ex-Fix in situ did not lead to an increase in rates of FRI or unplanned reoperation. Although diabetes and open fracture were associated with FRI risk, a stronger association was a longer interval of Ex-Fix utilization before definitive internal fixation, specifically 30 days or greater.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Hotspots and difficulties of biliary surgery in older patients
Authors: Zhang Zongming , Dong Jiahong , Lin Fangcai , Wang Qiusheng , Xu Zhi , He Xiaodong , Yang Shizhong , Li Youwei , Liu Limin , Zhang Chong , Liu Zhuo , Zhao Yue , Yang Haiyan , Peng Shuyou
Published: April 2023

With the accelerated aging society in China, the incidence of biliary surgical diseases in the elderly has increased significantly. The clinical characteristics of these patients indicate that improving treatment outcomes and realizing healthy aging are worthy of attention. How to effectively improve the treatment effect of geriatric biliary surgical diseases has attracted widespread attention. This paper reviews and comments on the hotspots and difficulties of biliary surgery in older patients from six aspects: (1) higher morbidity associated with an aging society, (2) prevention and control of pre-operative risks, (3) extending the indications of laparoscopic surgery, (4) urgent standardization of minimally invasive surgery, (5) precise technological progress in hepatobiliary surgery, and (6) guarantee of peri-operative safety. It is of great significance to fully understand the focus of controversy, actively make use of its favorable factors, and effectively avoid its unfavorable factors, for further improving the therapeutic effects of geriatric biliary surgical diseases, and thus benefits the vast older patients with biliary surgical diseases. Accordingly, a historical record with the highest age of 93 years for laparoscopic transcystic common bile duct exploration has been created by us recently.
B7H6 silencing increases chemosensitivity to dacarbazine and suppresses cell survival and migration in cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Mohammadi Alaleh , Najafi Souzan , Amini Mohammad , Baradaran Behzad , Firouzamandi Masoumeh
Published: April 2023

Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a highly metastatic cancer whose incidence rate is heightening worldwide. B7H6, as one of the co-stimulatory ligands of the B7 family, is expressed in malignant cells, involved in tumorigenesis. This study aimed to investigate the significance of B7H6 in CM cell chemosensitivity and metastatic ability. A375 CM cells were transfected with B7H6-siRNA and treated with dacarbazine individually or combined. The MTT assay to estimate half-maximal inhibitory concentration of dacarbazine and cell viability, the apoptotic induction using Annexin V/PI, cell cycle progression via flow cytometry, and wound healing assay for determining the migration ability of cells and assessing the clonogenic potential of A375 cells were executed. Functional analyses were performed to evaluate changes in A375 cells. The results illustrated that B7H6 suppression significantly increased the chemosensitivity of A375 cells to dacarbazine. Apoptosis induction by dacarbazine was enhanced after B7H6 knockdown through modulating Caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 mRNA levels. Western blotting indicated enhancement of cleaved caspase-3 protein expression in treatment groups. A375 cells were arrested at the sub-G1 and S phases when using B7H6-siRNA and dacarbazine. B7H6 suppression combined with dacarbazine restrained cell migration through suppression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression, including MMP2, MMP3, and MMP9. In addition, the clonogenic ability of A375 cells was decreased by downregulating Sox2, Nanog, and CD44 mRNA levels. A visible decrement in STAT3 protein expression was observed in the combination group. Hence, our findings revealed that B7H6 knockdown with dacarbazine could be a promising treatment approach for cutaneous melanoma.
Comparison of 2 Hyaluronic Acid-based Fillers for the Treatment of Acne Scars: Structural Lifting Versus Biostimulatory Effect
Authors: Mehrabi Joseph , Shehadeh Waseem , Gallo Elisa S. , Artzi Ofir , Horovitz Tamir
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Hyaluronic acid (HA)-based fillers are effective at mitigating acne scars due to their filling effect. Complexes of high and low molecular weight HA demonstrated a delayed biostimulatory effect.

OBJECTIVE

The authors sought to compare the results of acne scar treatment using a filler composed of complexes of high and low molecular weight HA versus a traditional cross-linking HA filler.

METHODS

Thirty patients with moderate-to-severe atrophic acne scarring were included in this prospective, split-face, double-blinded, randomized controlled study. Each underwent 3 monthly injections of a novel formula of combined high and low molecular weight HA (P) to the base of acne scars on 1 side of the face and traditional cross-linking HA (JV) filler on the other. Patients were evaluated 6 months after their last treatment for objective and subjective improvements.

RESULTS

For JV, statistically significant reductions were observed in the acne scar volume but nearly no change in elasticity and stretch during early treatments. For P, no significant differences were observed in early treatments; however, statistically significant improvements were observed in later visits.

CONCLUSION

Although the traditional JV filler demonstrated an earlier impact than P, the latter produced delayed positive changes that were more pronounced than the traditional filler.
Implementation of the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines for the prevention of acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery
Authors: Massoth Christina , Küllmar Mira , Pajares Moncho Azucena , Susana González-Suárez , Grigoryev Evgeny , Ivkin Artem , von Dossow Vera , Ott Sascha , Rau Nadine , Meersch Melanie , Zarbock Alexander
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidence from randomised controlled trials supports the implementation of a six-measure care bundle proposed by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines in patients at high risk for acute kidney injury (AKI) to reduce its incidence after cardiac surgery.

OBJECTIVE

To assess compliance with the KDIGO bundle in clinical practice.

DESIGN

Prospective observational multinational study.

SETTING

Six international tertiary care centres, from February 2021 to November 2021.

PATIENTS

Five hundred and thirty-seven consecutive patients undergoing cardiac surgery during a 1-month observational period.

INTERVENTIONS

All patients were assessed for the postoperative implementation of the following measures: avoidance of nephrotoxic medication and radiocontrast agents whenever possible, strict glycaemic control, close monitoring of renal function, optimisation of haemodynamic and volume status and functional monitoring of haemodynamic status.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients receiving fully compliant care. Secondary outcomes were occurrence of AKI and major adverse kidney event rate at day 30.

RESULTS

The full care bundle was applied to 0.4% of patients. There was avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs in 15.6%, radiocontrast agents in 95.3% and hyperglycaemia in 39.6%. Close monitoring of urine output and serum creatinine was achieved in 6.3%, 57.4% underwent optimisation of volume and haemodynamic status, and 43.9% received functional haemodynamic monitoring. 27.2% developed AKI within 72 h after surgery. The average number of implemented measures was 2.6 ± 1.0 and did not differ between AKI or non-AKI patients (P = 0.854).

CONCLUSION

Adherence with the KDIGO bundle was very low in cardiac surgery patients. Initiatives to improve guideline compliance might provide a strategy to mitigate the burden of AKI.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.drks.de DRKS00024204.
Modified Progressive Tension Sutures for Closing the Wounds of Large Subcutaneous Tumor in Upper Back
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhou Ling , Li Fei , Pei Haina
Published: April 2023

Large subcutaneous tumor removal in the upper back could leave “dead space” and increase postoperative complications. The progressive tension suture (PTS) has long been used in abdominoplasty to close dead space and reduce the complications rate. We aimed to explore the effectiveness of the modified PTS to reduce the complication of the large subcutaneous tumor removal in the upper back. Fity-nine patients with large subcutaneous upper back tumors (maximal length over 5 cm) were included in our prospective study and were randomly divided into the PTS group (n = 32) and the non-PTS group (n = 27). Based on the exposure of the deep fascia and the thickness of the flap, we modified the PTS technique and compared the outcomes (including necrosis, hematoma, and seroma) between the two groups. The tumor size, flap thickness, and the total surgical duration were comparable between the two groups. The incidence of flap necrosis (6.30% versus 25.90%, P = 0.0659) and seroma (0.00% versus 33.30%, P = 0.004) in the PTS group was lower than that in the non-PTS group. The length of hospital stay in the PTS group was shorter than that in the non-PTS group (6.4 ± 1.3 versus 9.4 ± 2.1 days, P < 0.0001). The modified PTS technique can effectively close the dead space after surgical removal of large upper back tumor and reduce the complications compared to the conventional approach.
Incidence of Chronic Postsurgical Pain after Upper Extremity Surgery and its Correlation with Preoperative Pain
Authors: Droog Wouter , Coert J. Henk , Walbeehm Erik T. , Stolker Robert Jan , Galvin Eilish M.
Published: April 2023

Background:

The incidence of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) after upper extremity surgery is not known. The goal was to study CPSP at 5 years postoperative and to investigate patient, surgical, and anesthetic risk factors.

Methods:

Patients scheduled for elective upper extremity surgery were included, and numeric rating scale (NRS) score for pain was obtained preoperatively and at 5 years postoperatively. According to the International Association for the Study of Pain definition, CPSP was defined as an increase in NRS compared with preoperatively.

Results:

A total 168 patients were contacted at 5 years postoperatively. Incidence of CPSP was 22%, and 35% had an NRS score of 4 or more. The number of patients with an NRS score of 0 and with an NRS score of 4 or more preoperatively was higher in the no-CPSP group, with P values of 0.019 and 0.008, respectively. Of the patients with no preoperative pain, 34% developed CPSP. Regional anesthesia was associated with a lower CPSP incidence (P = 0.001) and was more frequently applied in surgery on bony structures and in patients with a preoperative NRS score of 4 or more.

Conclusions:

The incidence CPSP was 22%. Patients with no pain or an NRS score of 4 or more preoperatively were less likely to develop CPSP, but individual susceptibility to pain and success of the surgery may be of influence. One-third of the patients with no preoperative pain developed CPSP. More studies are needed to reveal the exact relation between brachial plexus anesthesia and CPSP.
Outcomes of Partial Versus Complete Goniotomy With or Without Phacoemulsification for Primary Open Angle Glaucoma: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Song Yunhe , Zhu Xiaomin , Zhang Yao , Shu Jing , Dang Guangfu , Zhou Wenzong , Sun Lu , Li Fei , Lin Fengbin , Zhang Yingzhe , Liang Xiaohong , Wang Zhenyu , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yu , Chen Weirong , Zeng Liuzhi , Tang Li , Xie Lin , Lam Dennis S.C. , Wang Ningli , Barton Keith , Weinreb Robert N. , Zhang Xiulan ,   PVP study group
Published: April 2023

Précis:

Goniotomy (GT) 120 degrees with or without phacoemulsification was sufficient to lower the intraocular pressure (IOP) and reduce hyphema for primary open angle glaucoma.

Purpose:

To compare the surgical outcomes and safety profiles of 120 degrees and 360 degrees GT with or without phacoemulsification cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation (PEI) for primary open angle glaucoma.

Patients and Methods:

This multicenter retrospective study consisted of 139 eyes and was divided into 4 groups: (1) 120 degrees GT, (2) 360 degrees GT, (3) PEI + 120 degrees GT, and (4) PEI + 360 degrees GT. IOP, number of topical hypotensive medications, and complications were recorded and evaluated at baseline and at the final visit. The complete and qualified success rate and their potential associated factors were also investigated. The effectiveness and safety profile of the surgery were compared between different subgroups.

Results:

After a mean follow-up of 8.6 months, the IOP reduction was 13.2 ± 8.3 (38.8 ± 28.8%), 12.4 ± 8.3 (41.6 ± 18.2%), 12.8 ± 9.9 (39.4 ± 34.5%), and 13.8 ± 7.2 (46.0±17.1%) mm Hg in 120 degrees, 360 degrees, PEI + 120 degrees GT group, and PEI + 360 degrees GT, respectively. No significant difference was found in IOP, a decline of IOP from baseline, topical hypotensive medication, and complete or qualified success between either standalone 120 degrees versus 360 degrees GT, or PEI + 120 degrees versus PEI + 360 degrees GT (all Ps > 0.05). The PEI + 120 degrees GT group had a lower final IOP than the 120 degrees GT group (P = 0.0002) whereas there was no difference between PEI + 360 degrees GT and 360 degrees GT group (P = 0.893). Both 360 degrees GT and PEI + 360 degrees GT group had a significantly higher incidence of hyphema than the 120 degrees GT and PEI + 120 degrees GT groups (all Ps < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

GT of 120 or 360 degrees lowered IOP equally with or without cataract surgery, and hyphema was most commonly noted after complete GT. Partial GT alone or in combination with cataract surgery was an effective and safe approach to manage patients with open angle glaucoma.
The Role of Mean Platelet Volume in Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children With Cardiac Manifestations
Authors: Erdede Özlem , Sari Erdal , Külcü Nihan U. , Sezer Yamanel Rabia G.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a novel pediatric disorder associated with coronavirus disease 2019. However, no laboratory parameters can diagnose MIS-C. This study aimed to determine the changes in mean platelet volume (MPV) and investigate its relationship with cardiac involvement in MIS-C.

Methods:

In this single-center retrospective study, 35 children with MIS-C, 35 healthy children and 35 febrile children were enrolled. Patients with MIS-C were further subdivided depending on the presence of cardiac involvement. For all patients, the white blood cell, absolute neutrophil, absolute lymphocyte, platelet counts, MPV and C‐reactive protein levels were recorded. Ferritin, D-dimer, troponin and CK-MB levels and the day when IVIG was administered were recorded and compared between groups.

Results:

Thirteen patients with MIS-C had cardiac involvement. The mean MPV of the MIS-C group was significantly higher than those of the healthy (P = 0.0001) and febrile (P = 0.027) groups. Using a cutoff of >7.6 fL, the MPV had a sensitivity of 82.86% and specificity of 82.75%, and the area under the MPV receiver operating characteristics curve was 0.896 (0.799–0.956). The MPV was significantly higher in patients with cardiac involvement than in those without (P = 0.031). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the association between the MPV and cardiac involvement was significant (odds ratio, 2.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–2.95; P = 0.039).

Conclusions:

The MPV may indicate cardiac involvement in patients with MIS-C. Large cohort studies are needed to define an accurate cutoff value for the MPV.
Unlocking Population-Specific Treatments to Render Equitable Approaches and Management in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Smith Shannon Bright , Abshire Demetrius A. , Magwood Gayenell S. , Herbert Laura L. , Tavakoli Abbas S. , Jenerette Coretta
Published: April 2023

Background

Emerging adulthood (18–25 years old) is a distinct developmental period in which multiple life transitions pose barriers to engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors that reduce cardiovascular disease risk. There is limited theory-based research on African American emerging adults.

Objective

This article introduces a synthesized empirically testable situation-specific theory for cardiovascular disease prevention in African American emerging adults.

Methodology

Im and Meleis' integrative approach was used to develop the situation-specific theory.

Results

Unlocking Population-Specific Treatments to Render Equitable Approach and Management in Cardiovascular Disease is a situation-specific theory developed based on theoretical and empirical evidence and theorists' research and clinical practice experiences.

Discussion

African American emerging adults have multifaceted factors that influence health behaviors and healthcare needs. Unlocking Population-Specific Treatments to Render Equitable Approaches and Management in Cardiovascular Disease has the potential to inform theory-guided clinical practice and nursing research. Recommendations for integration in nursing practice, research, and policy advocacy are presented. Further critique and testing of the theory are required.
Alpha, Beta, and Gamma Human Papillomaviruses in Genital Lichen Sclerosus: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Giuliani Eugenia , Rollo Francesca , Cota Carlo , Gheit Tarik , Galati Luisa , McKay-Chopin Sandrine , Tedesco Marinella , Migliano Emilia , Benevolo Maria , Morrone Aldo , Donà Maria Gabriella , Latini Alessandra
Published: April 2023

Background

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is an inflammatory disease mostly arising at the genital level. It is unclear whether human papillomaviruses (HPVs) have an etiological significance in LS, and data on their prevalence in patients with LS are controversial.

Objectives

The authors assessed alpha, beta, and gamma HPV prevalence in patients with genital LS. The association of HPV positivity with demographic and clinical factors was also investigated.

Methods

One hundred thirty-two formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded LS samples (2016–2020) were retrieved from the archives of a pathology department. Alpha HPVs were genotyped with the INNO-LiPA HPV Genotyping Extra II kit. Beta and gamma HPVs were searched by multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction. Immunostaining for p16INK4a was performed on high-risk HPV-positive samples.

Results

Patients had a median age of 61 years, were mostly women (n = 73, 55.3%), and with an early disease stage (n = 79, 59.8%). Alpha HPVs were detected in 12/132 cases (9.1%). Among the 5 high-risk HPV-positive cases, only 2 displayed a strong and diffuse p16INK4a staining. Beta genus was the most prevalent (35/132, 26.5%) and HPV5 was the most frequent beta genotype (25/132, 18.9%). There were 3 gamma HPV-positive cases among those with a valid result (3/131, 2.3%). Multiple infections with genotypes belonging to different genera were infrequent (3/131, 2.3%). No significant differences in the prevalence of the individual genera were observed according to sex and disease stage.

Conclusions

Of the 3 HPV genera, beta genus showed the highest prevalence. Further research is needed to clarify whether the presence of beta HPVs in genital LS has a clinical significance.
“Most efficient and meaningful patient reported appearance assessment in different cleft types and age-groups with Cleft-Q”
Authors: Ombashi Saranda , Kurniawan Melissa S.I.C. , Koudstaal Maarten J. , Allori Alexander C. , Jansson Kristina , Rogers-Vizena Carolyn R. , Mathijssen Irene M.J. , Klassen Anne F. , Versnel Sarah L.
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

The CLEFT-Q, a questionnaire developed and validated specifically for cleft patients, contains 7 ‘appearance’ scales. The ICHOM (International Consortium of Health Outcomes Measurement) has incorporated only some Cleft-Q ‘appearance’ scales in the Standard Set to minimize burden. This study evaluates which ‘appearance’ scales provide the most meaningful information in the different cleft types at specific ages, for the most efficient cleft appearance outcome assessment.

METHODS:

Within this international multicentre study, outcomes of the 7 appearance scales were collected, either as part of the ICHOM Standard Set, or as part of the field test study performed to validate the CLEFT-Q. Analyses were done in separate age-groups and cleft types, and involved univariate regression analyses, trend analyses, T-tests, correlations, and floor and ceiling effects.

RESULTS:

A total of 3116 patients were included. Scores for most appearance scales showed a downward trend by age-groups, with the exception of the Teeth and Jaw scales. In all cleft types, several scales correlated strongly with each other. No floor effects were observed, but ceiling effects were found in several scales in different age-groups, most often in the CLEFT-Q Jaw.

CONCLUSION:

A proposition for the most meaningful and efficient appearance outcome assessment in cleft patients is made. It was composed so that recommendations are of value for different cleft protocols and initiatives. Suggestions for the use of scales in the ICHOM Standard Set at different ages are given, also from a clinical perspective. Use of the CLEFT-Q Scar, Lips, and Nose, will provide additional relevant information.
Development of a prosthetic fit and alignment assessment (ProFit) in persons with post-traumatic transtibial amputation
Authors:   Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium (METRC)
Published: April 2023

Background:

There are no standards for reliably measuring the quality of prosthetic fit and alignment which is important for evaluation and improvement of clinical care for patients with transtibial amputation.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to develop an instrument to quantitatively assess prosthetic fit and alignment in patients with transtibial amputation.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Methods:

The fit and alignment assessment (ProFit) included 39 items for assessments of skin quality, stance and gait, and radiographic characteristics that could be feasibly captured in clinic using photographs, video, and radiographs. Data were collected on adults aged 18–60 years treated with transtibial amputation and followed up for 18 months at 1 of 27 US hospitals. One hundred thirteen assessments were conducted by 6 prosthetists using an online platform. Items demonstrating reliability and face validity were included in the ProFit score for subsequent validation testing. Validation measures included 18-month patient-reported function (Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment ), tests of physical performance, patient-reported pain (Brief Pain Inventory ), satisfaction with prosthesis (Orthotics Prosthetics Users Survey), prosthesis use, and walking activity.

Results:

The ProFit score included 10 of 39 items that demonstrated high inter-rater reliability and face validity. A higher ProFit score correlated with worse function on all domains of the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment except arm and hand and with worse performance on the 4-Square Step Test, Shuttle Run, and Illinois Agility Test. ProFit scores did not correlate with the Brief Pain Inventory, Orthotics Prosthetics Users Survey, prosthesis use, or walking activity.

Conclusions:

The ProFit score can be used by researchers and clinicians to measure the quality of socket fit and prosthetic alignment. Future prospective validation is necessary to verify the promising results observed in ProFit development and establish clinical utility.
Is Gastrointestinal Bleeding a Problem for COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit Patients?
Authors: Negro Alessandra , Villa Giulia , Cardinali Matteo , Gianelle Nicola , Ranzani Roberta , Rolandi Stefano , Maimeri Nicolò , Zangrillo Alberto
Published: April 2023

The objective of this study was to describe the COVID-19 intensive care unit population and analyze the characteristics and outcomes of gastrointestinal bleeding patients. An observational prospective study design was used following the STROBE checklist. All patients admitted between February and April 2020 to the intensive care unit were included. Main outcome measures were first bleeding event timing, sociodemographic and clinical data before admission, and gastrointestinal symptoms. A total of 116 COVID-19 patients were included; 16 (13.8%) developed gastrointestinal bleeding, 15 were males (93.7%), and the median age was 65.64 ± 7.33 years. All 16 patients were mechanically ventilated, one (6.3%) already had gastrointestinal symptoms, 13 (81.3%) had at least one concomitant disease, and six (37.5%) died. Bleeding episodes occurred on a mean of 16.9 ± 9.5 days after admission. Nine cases (56.3%) had effects on their hemodynamics, hemoglobin levels, or transfusion requirements; six (37.5%) required diagnostic imaging; and two (12.5%) underwent endoscopy procedures. The Mann–Whitney test showed statistically significant differences between the two groups of patients concerning comorbidities. Gastrointestinal bleeding can occur in critically ill patients with COVID-19. Having a solid tumor or chronic liver disease seems to increase that risk. Nurses caring for COVID-19 patients are urged to individualize patients at higher risk in order to improve safety.
Para- and transcellular transport kinetics of nanoparticles across lymphatic endothelial cells
Authors: McCright Jacob , Yarmovsky Jenny , Maisel Katharina
Published: April 2023

Lymphatic vessels have received significant attention as drug delivery targets, as they shuttle materials from peripheral tissues to the lymph nodes, where adaptive immunity is formed. Delivery of immune modulatory materials to the lymph nodes via lymphatic vessels has been shown to enhance their efficacy and also improve bioavailability of drugs when delivered to intestinal lymphatic vessels. In this study we generated a three-compartment model of a lymphatic vessel with a set of kinematic differential equations to describe the transport of nanoparticles from surrounding tissues into lymphatic vessels. We used previously published data and collected additional experimental parameters, including transport efficiency of nanoparticles over time, and also examined how nanoparticle formulation affected the cellular transport mechanisms using small molecule inhibitors. This experimental data was incorporated into a system of kinematic differential equations and non-linear, least squares curve fitting algorithms were employed to extrapolate transport coefficients within our model. The subsequent computational framework produced some of the first parameters to describe transport kinetics across lymphatic endothelial cells and allows for the quantitative analysis of the driving mechanisms of transport into lymphatic vessels. Our model indicates that transcellular mechanisms, such as micro- and macropinocytosis, drive transport into lymphatics. This information is crucial to further design strategies that will modulate lymphatic transport for drug delivery, particularly in diseases like lymphedema, where normal lymphatic functions are impaired.
The common welfare human resource management system and innovativeness: the mediating role of altruism
Authors: Mallén-Broch Francisco Fermín , Chiva Ricardo , Rodríguez-Sánchez Alma , Guinot Jacob
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The paper analyzes and develops Chiva's (2014) proposal on the common welfare HRM system and uncovers its relationship with innovativeness, using altruism as a mediator.

Design/methodology/approach

The common welfare HRM system implies a certain human and organizational development of the classic control and commitment HRM systems, and its main goal is to promote innovation through a prosocial approach. To this end, the authors investigated its HRM practices, developed a measurement instrument and provided initial illustrative evidence of some of its main implications for innovativeness and altruism. They tested these relationships on a sample of 269 Spanish firms using structural equations and bootstrapping to confirm the significance of the mediated effect.

Findings

Results confirm the study’s hypotheses, thus supporting the common welfare HRM system as a relevant tool for developing innovativeness through the power of altruism. This paper therefore provides empirical evidence of these relationships.

Practical implications

This study has implications that can help managers to increase innovativeness through a specific HRM system. The findings reveal that a coherent set of HRM practices based on common welfare principles and a high level of consciousness creates a climate of altruism that results in innovativeness.

Originality/value

This research shows that humanistic HRM practices also have an impact on performance variables such as innovativeness, through altruistic employees' behaviors. It also develops a measurement instrument for the common welfare HRM system and provides some initial illustrative evidence of some of its main implications.
Facts or belief: examining the effect of the cognitive dissonance on brand switching, purchase regret and satisfaction level
Authors: Ibrahim Awwad Razan , Ibrahim Blend , George Cinoj , Hamdan Sameer , Nair Kiran
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relative impacts of the cognitive dissonance on brand switching (BS) and satisfaction level (SAT) by considering the mediation role of purchase regret (PRG) in these relationships in an online shopping context.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was collected from 354 participants, and structural equation modeling and mediation analysis were conducted to test the conceptual model hypotheses.

Findings

The findings revealed that the cognitive dissonance positively affects PRG. Also, the study indicated a negative and nonsignificant relationship between cognitive dissonance and SAT and a negative significant relationship between cognitive dissonance and BS. In addition, a positive and significant correlation was found between PRG and BS. Furthermore, the results revealed that PRG mediates the relationship between cognitive dissonance and SAT.

Originality/value

This research provides a novel contribution by examining the impact of the cognitive dissonance on BS and SAT and uncovering the underlying mechanism of how and under what conditions cognitive dissonance promotes BS and SAT in an online shopping context.
Virtual accreditation peer review team visits – higher education accreditations: present and future directions
Authors: Reddy J. Srikanth , Sharma Ritu , Gupta Narain
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The main objective of the present research is to depict the experience of challenges and opportunities for virtual accreditation peer review team (PRT) visits. COVID-19 has changed higher education delivery. Higher education accreditation and PRT visits have become online. The lockdown forced schools and accreditation agencies to cancel or change visit arrangements. PRT visits could not be stopped during the COVID-19 pandemic, but accrediting agencies needed to review programme quality to meet standards.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight former and present accreditation specialists were interviewed. The researchers described the challenges and opportunities in virtual accreditation visits (VAV). Also, the authors have explained their own experience of coordinating on-site and virtual accreditation visits. Using the NVIVO tool, the experts' replies are transcribed and categorised as challenges and opportunities.

Findings

The findings will help the professionals and academicians better prepare for, plan and execute virtual PRT visits for accreditation agencies and schools. The results revealed that the evaluation and accreditation outcomes are similar for virtual and physical accreditation visits. Finally, the findings suggest that accreditation agencies and schools need to adopt a hybrid site visit model for accreditation visits.

Practical implications

The school can prepare better for virtual PRT visits by identifying the challenges and opportunities ahead of time. The finding may motivate authorities to schedule meetings in different time zones, prepare document evidence rooms, save money, time, and travel time, and benefit the environment by eliminating paper printing, fuel use, and paper printing.

Originality/value

This research is unique and noteworthy since accreditation organisations, PRT members and schools are uncertain about virtual visits. This may be the first paper in this domain to assist accreditation organisations and institutions review accreditation visits online or in hybrid mode.
Promoting construction for sustainability transformation: the perspective of institutional theory
Authors: Tunji-Olayeni Patience , Kajimo-Shakantu Kahilu , Ayodele Timothy Oluwafemi , Babalola Olubola
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Sustainability transformation in the construction industry is vital for the attainment of sustainable development goals. While conventional construction has been at the expense of social and economic sustainability, sustainable construction can enhance environmental, social and economic outcomes for the construction industry and society at large. However, the industry struggles with new initiates because its stakeholders are products of unique institutions which shape their decisions and intentions to adopt new practices. This study assessed the institutional pressures that influence the adoption of sustainable construction to enhance our understanding of other factors that can promote and accelerate the adoption of sustainable construction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a quantitative research design with the use of online questionnaires to elicit information from construction professionals in South Africa. Descriptive statistics of frequencies, mean and standard deviation were used to analyse the data obtained from the survey. Linear regression was also used to assess the influence of institutional pressures on the adoption of sustainable construction.

Findings

Mimetic pressures were found to have a significant influence on the adoption of sustainable construction. The decision to adopt sustainable construction was based on the sustainability actions of industry leaders (mimetic pressure). Normative and coercive pressures had no significant influence on the adoption of sustainable construction.

Practical implications

Mimetic pressure from competitors and normative pressures is already exerting some pressure on stakeholders to adopt sustainable construction. However, there cannot be a long-term commitment that will yield the needed sustainability transformations without additional normative pressure from learned societies and coercive pressure from the government. As one of the pioneering works from the global south, this study provides empirical validations of the influence of institutional pressures on the adoption of sustainable construction. It also enhances understanding of how institutional pressures from the social context can promote and accelerate the adoption of sustainable construction.

Originality/value

The findings present one of the pioneering efforts to empirically validate the influence of institutional pressures on the adoption of sustainable construction.
Socially responsible HRM and hotel employees’ environmental performance: the mediating roles of green knowledge sharing and environmental commitment
Authors: Rubel Mohammad Rabiul Basher , Kee Daisy Mui-Hung , Yusliza Mohd Yusoff , Rimi Nadia Newaz
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how employee environmental performance (EP) is affected by socially responsible human resource management (SRHRM) via green knowledge sharing (GKS) and environmental commitment (EC).

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares-structural equation modeling was used to analyze data from 494 frontline employees of hotels.

Findings

The findings reveal that SRHRM influences employee EP, GKS and EC. SRHRM indirectly predicts individual EP through GKS and EC mediation. GKS and EC also have significant relationships with employee EP.

Practical implications

Hotels can use the findings of this study to develop effective strategies to promote employees’ positive responses to the environment and improve their organizational identification. Moreover, the current research enables the organization to recognize the importance of employees’ GKS and EC and capitalize on them.

Originality/value

This study links SRHRM to the individual EP level in the hotel industry. This study reveals the importance of EC and GKS as psychological mechanisms linking SRHRM and EP.
The bottlenecks in making sense of financial well-being
Authors: Riitsalu Leonore , Atkinson Adele , Pello Rauno
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Financial well-being has gained increased attention in research, policy and the financial sector. The authors contribute to this emerging field by drawing attention to the bottlenecks in financial well-being research and proposing ways for transforming and advancing it.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a semi-systematic review of the latest 120 financial well-being studies from both academic and grey literature and analyse the current issues in defining, conceptualising and measuring it.

Findings

The authors identify the need for a more human-centred approach across content and methodology, conceptualisation and operationalisation, research and practice, that focusses on how individuals experience, interpret and assess financial well-being. The authors highlight the lack of evidence-based interventions for improving financial well-being.

Practical implications

The authors propose applying design science approach for redefining the problems that individuals need help in solving and for developing and testing interventions that improve financial well-being and are in line with individuals’ needs and aspirations. The authors also call for international qualitative research into the human perspective of financial well-being.

Social implications

Financial well-being has a significant role in mental health and well-being; therefore, it affects the lives of individuals and societies far beyond financial affairs. Change of perspective can lead to evidence-based interventions that better the lives of many, reduce inequality and develop more balanced communities.

Originality/value

The authors argue that the human dimension has been assumed in financial well-being research, practice and police, rather than confirmed, based on flawed assumptions that what people experience is already known.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at:https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-11-2022-0741
How intrafirm collaboration network influences a firm’s new knowledge search? Longitudinal evidence from the US biotechnology industry
Authors: Nan Ding
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to reveal the contribution mechanism of various types of intrafirm networks formed among inventors to firms’ searching for new knowledge. This study also intends to show how this mechanism is influenced by the geographic dispersion of inventors and the external alliance of firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops an analytical framework building on social network theory to explain the collective search among inventors within the firm. The authors validate the hypotheses using the data from 316 publicly traded biotechnology firms in the USA.

Findings

As demonstrated by the findings, intrafirm network clustering facilitates the search for new knowledge. The geographic dispersion of inventors’ location has a negative moderating effect on this relation, whereas the number of alliance partners has a positive moderating effect on this relation. By contrast, the search for new knowledge is hampered by the intrafirm network average path length. The geographic dispersion of inventors positively moderates this relation, whereas a firm’s alliance partner number negatively moderates this relation.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the joint effect of intrafirm networks, inventors’ geographic locations and external alliances on the new knowledge-searching process. This study points out that new knowledge acquired through inventors’ geographic locations and alliance partners is internalized efficiently according to different types of internal networks.
Management of alliance post-formation dynamics: an integrated model
Authors: Shi Lulu , Jiang Xu
Published: April 2023

Purpose

By reviewing the literature, this paper explores the current priorities and future directions of alliance post-formation dynamics research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper collects and analyzes empirical studies on alliance post-formation dynamics that were published between 1990 and 2021.

Findings

Current research on alliance post-formation dynamics can be structured as antecedents and outcomes of dynamics and their moderating effects. Among these topics, antecedents of dynamics have been addressed in a large body of research encompassing diverse theoretical mechanisms and levels of analysis. However, there remain debates regarding the outcomes of alliances post-formation dynamics.

Originality/value

First, this paper enriches the theoretical plurality of the field by integrating the antecedents and outcomes of dynamics and their moderating effects. Second, this paper proposes a new scholarly perspective – “alliance dynamic capabilities” – to address the “disruption vs adaption” debates regarding the outcomes of alliance post-formation dynamics in current research. Third, this paper presents several promising future research directions with the aim to advancing the literature on alliance post-formation dynamics.
Debt covenants and classification shifting: moderating role of audit quality
Authors: Bansal Manish
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The study aims to investigates which form of classification shifting is preferred by firms to avoid the violation of debt covenants and whether the higher-audit quality constraints the shifting practices of firms incentivized to avoid covenant violations or not.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 1,644 Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)-listed firms during the period 2009–2021 has been used in this study and tested through panel data regression models. Two forms of classification shifting, namely expense shifting and revenue shifting have been taken into account. The findings are validated through the propensity-score matching technique.

Findings

The findings deduced from the empirical evidence demonstrate that firms prefer revenue shifting over expense shifting to avoid covenant violations, consistent with the notion of the ease-need-advantage-based shifting framework, where firms are found to prefer a shifting tool with greater relative advantage. Further, the author finds that superior audit quality has a constraining effect on expense shifting, but not on revenue shifting, indicating the partial effectiveness of high-quality auditors in curbing the corporate misfeasance of classification shifting. These results are robust to the problem of endogeneity and self-selection bias.

Originality/value

The paper provides new evidence on debt market incentives behind classification shifting, where firms are found to substitute classification shifting forms to avoid covenant violations. Further, the study is among pioneering attempts to investigate the impact of audit quality on revenue shifting and document the non-constraining effect.