bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In chunks we trust . . . the problem of gender assignment in foreign language learning of French
Authors: Wolf Johanna
Published: December 2024

Aims and Objectives:

The study explores the challenges foreign language learners face in gender assignment and agreement within nominal, verbal, or adjective phrases, specifically in comparison to native speakers and bilingual children. It aims to identify where learners struggle with gender assignment and to what extent these difficulties can be explained by their multilingual background. Additionally, it investigates whether integrating models of Universal Grammar and Construction Grammar can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the gender assignment process.

Research Questions:

The article adresses the following research questions: What are the specific challenges foreign language learners face in gender assignment within nominal, verbal, and adjective phrases, and to what extent can these challenges be explained by their multilingual background? Furthermore, how can insights from Universal Grammar and Construction Grammar be combined to develop a comprehensive explanatory model for these difficulties?

Methodology/Approach:

The research is based on a corpus of authentic learner productions written by learners of French as a foreign language (L3) with German as the learners’ first language (L1). Data analysis is focusing on processing and production errors related to gender assignment and agreement.

Data and Analysis:

Learner errors in gender assignment are analysed with regard to their frequency and patterns, considering the learners’ multilingual backgrounds, especially possible transfer effects of their L1.

Findings/Conclusions:

The findings suggest that learners face significant challenges in extracting and applying morphosyntactic rules for gender assignment. Errors are often linked to difficulties in processing gender noun-constructions as multiword units. Combining insights from Universal Grammar and Construction Grammar indicates that these constructions should be treated as holistic units, which may facilitate their acquisition and processing.

Originality:

The study bridges two prominent linguistic models—Universal Grammar and Construction Grammar—to offer a novel explanatory framework for understanding gender assignment in foreign language learners. This dual-model approach highlights the potential of treating gender noun-constructions as multiword units in language acquisition.

Significance/Implications:

The results have important implications for foreign language teaching, particularly in designing input manipulation strategies. Emphasizing the role of multiword units in language processing could enhance learners’ ability to filter morphosyntactic rules from input and improve their gender assignment accuracy.
Cognitive and linguistic predictors of word reading fluency in Turkish–Arabic bilingual and Turkish monolingual children
Authors: İlerten Ferda , Haznedar Belma , Babür Nalan
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

The study investigated the role of linguistic and cognitive factors in Turkish word reading fluency (WREAD) among second-grade Turkish–Arabic simultaneous bilingual and Turkish monolingual children. It specifically focused on the impact of phonological awareness (PA), phonological memory (PM), rapid automatized naming (RAN), morphological awareness (MA), morphological fluency (MF), processing speed (PS), and vocabulary knowledge (VK) on reading fluency.

Methodology:

The study used a cross-sectional design and collected data from 127 children in Hatay, Turkey. The participants completed a battery of tests measuring PA, PM, RAN, MA, PS, VK, and WREAD. The tests were administered individually, and the scores, along with the time spent on each test, were recorded.

Data and analysis:

Data from the tests were analyzed using SPSS 22.0. Independent samples t-tests were conducted to determine the differences between bilingual and monolingual children in the linguistic and cognitive measures. Pearson r correlation analyses were conducted to illustrate the relationship among the variables and stepwise regression analyses to explore the extent to which these variables explained the variance in WREAD.

Findings:

The findings highlighted significant differences between Turkish–Arabic bilingual and Turkish monolingual children in PA and PS. While MF and RAN explained WREAD in the bilingual group, MF and PA were the strongest predictors of WREAD in the monolingual children.

Originality:

This study is the first to investigate word reading development in Turkish–Arabic simultaneous bilingual children, contributing novel insights into literacy acquisition in simultaneous bilingualism. In addition, the concept of MF has been proposed in the literature as a distinct measurement from MA.

Significance:

The study expands the existing knowledge on bilingual reading development, emphasizing the importance of timed cognitive and linguistic variables in predicting WREAD. It also sheds light on the educational needs of bilingual children in the Turkish context.
Medical tourism in central Java: Influences of image and promotion
Authors: Sukma Andhi
Published: December 2024

Medical tourism has emerged as a globally competitive industry, with regions such as Central Java striving to position themselves as leading destinations. This study examines the roles of destination image, promotion, and product quality in influencing customer satisfaction and revisit intentions among medical tourists in Central Java. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires to collect data from 190 respondents. The relationships among the variables were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The analysis revealed that destination image and promotion significantly enhance customer satisfaction, which, in turn, strongly predicts revisit intentions. Notably, product quality exhibited a less direct impact on revisit intentions, suggesting that medical tourists place greater value on holistic experiences that integrate cultural and healthcare attributes. These findings underscore the importance of integrated marketing strategies and service improvements in fostering loyalty within the medical tourism sector. This research contributes to the understanding of medical tourism dynamics by emphasizing the mediating role of customer satisfaction in shaping revisit intentions. It provides practical recommendations for policymakers and practitioners to enhance destination competitiveness through targeted promotional efforts and superior healthcare experiences.
Should independent upmarket hotels work with daily deals platforms? An empirical case study from Switzerland
Authors: Chen Meng-Mei , Beaufort Claudia , Earl-Erpelding Karen
Published: December 2024

Daily deals platforms (DDPs) are perceived as an attractive means for hospitality merchants to acquire and retain new customers and generate ancillary revenues. However, these potential benefits come at the cost of steeply discounted prices and high commissions. How could hospitality merchants decide if working with DDPs is beneficial to their firm’s financial performance? This longitudinal study aims to investigate the impact of DDP on merchants’ performance by comparing DDP and non-DDP customers on key performance indicators, analyzing the benefit of product bundling, and potential cannibalization effects. The results show that DDP guests contributed lower revenues, had shorter lengths of stays, longer lead times, lower retention, and less positive reviews than their non-DDP counterparts. In deciding to work with DDPs, hoteliers must consider the opportunity cost of their choice because the expected vital benefits are more likely to be attained by non-DDP customers. Unexpectedly, DDP and non-DDP guests do not switch channels, and cannibalization is negligible. At the macro level, channel migration indicates that DDPs have contributed more bookings over the study period and become a more important channel in the channel mix.
Pupil obscuration mediates the impact of an overhead glare source
Authors: Abboushi B , Royer M , Rodriguez-Feo Bermudez E
Published: December 2024

Interindividual variability in discomfort from glare has been documented in previous studies, but the causes are not well understood. An observer-related factor that contributes to the variation in perceived glare across individuals is the portion of the face exposed to direct illumination, which is influenced by facial geometry. We hypothesized that individuals with a shaded pupil (due to deeply recessed pupils within the eye socket) would tolerate higher luminance for an overhead glare source compared to individuals with an unshaded pupil. To test this hypothesis, an experiment was conducted where the facial models of 29 participants were collected using a 3D scanner. Participants were seated at a spherical apparatus and asked to set the luminance of a light source positioned 60° above the line of sight using matching and adjustment procedures. For a source positioned 60° above the line of sight, participants with an unshaded pupil set the borderline between comfort and discomfort luminance to a significantly lower value compared to those with a shaded pupil. This can inform more inclusive lighting design guidelines by considering individuals who are likely more sensitive to overhead sources due to their facial geometry.
Exploratory Pilot Study Engages Community Health Workers to Test Drone-Based Package Delivery System for Personal Protective Equipment in High-Risk Appalachia Population
Authors: Feltner Frances J. , Baker William Mace , Bowling Beth , Massey Bart , Howard Sydney , Hahn Ellen J.
Published: December 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, high-risk clients’ and caregivers’ access to essential personal protective equipment (PPE) was limited especially in many remote areas of Appalachia. A multidisciplinary team of community and university partners explored how to coordinate the use of community health workers (CHWs) and drone technologies to increase access to PPE in rural and remote Appalachian regions. CHWs recruited 10 Homeplace clients in an exploratory study of drone-based package delivery of PPE to assess importance and effectiveness of PPE self-efficacy related to PPE use, use of PPE, and ease and acceptability of drone delivery (following delivery only). CHWs educated each participant via in-person and Zoom meetings on the reasons for using PPE and proper use of PPE using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Most participants found the drone delivery of PPE easy and 80% were extremely satisfied with the drone delivery process. The frequency of mask-wearing increased from 60% at baseline to 90% at follow-up. On average, participants rated all types of PPE as effective in preventing the spread of disease. Drone officials used the findings of this pilot study to develop a waiver application to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to request permission to fly beyond visual line of sight in remote areas. Aerial drone technology could be a cutting-edge approach to health promotion in remote areas. The study results provide the proof of concept to assist investigators in designing future projects to promote healthy homes by collecting air and water samples and testing novel interventions deploying drone technology in remote Appalachian regions.
Gut Instincts: Unusual Suspects in Seizure Worsening
Authors: Erickson Inga , Barker-Haliski Melissa
Published: December 2024

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Logistical challenges in modeling marksmanship outcomes: striking a balance between reliability and efficiency
Authors: Carnes Nate C , Biggs Adam T , Hamilton Joseph A , Huffman Gregory H , Dunn Timothy
Published: December 2024

There is little guidance in the literature concerning the number of simulations required when performing stochastic marksmanship duels to balance obtaining a reliable answer against obtaining that answer quickly. The present research fills this gap by investigating the reliability and computational efficiency of stochastic marksmanship duels with different numbers of draws. We simulated a stochastic duel using a Markov chain with Monte Carlo methods modeling the transitions between behaviors. The simulation was run five times each (100 draws, 1000 draws, 5000 draws, 10,000 draws, and 100,000 draws) to estimate the probability of victory, variation in this estimate, and required runtime. Assuming these efforts are run using comparable hardware, a simulation with 5000 draws will take approximately 1 min to complete (M = 01:09), but the estimated probability of victory is likely within ±1.25% of the mean, and theoretically true, probability. If a simulation with 10,000 draws is conducted, it takes several minutes (M = 02:19), yet the estimated probability of victory is likely within ±0.88% of the mean probability. Fewer than 5000 draws were more unreliable, and greater than 10,000 draws were more time-consuming. The present research is novel because it provides guidance on this trade-off between reliability and efficiency for a variety of use cases ranging from operational to scientific. Practitioners of marksmanship modeling performing stochastic duels should conduct simulations with 5000–10,000 draws to balance reliability and efficiency.
From defund to refund the police: The hegemonic rupture and repair of policing logics
Authors: Phillips Nickie D , Chagnon Nicholas
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we examine the role played by popular media in propagating myths around policing and buttressing the prison-industrial complex (PIC). We provide a conceptual framework for understanding how policing logics are amplified, contested, and resonate through popular media as part of a hegemonic process to sustain the PIC. We suggest that the scaffolding for these logics is built through rhetoric that normalizes the routine violence of policing ( copspeak), the ways in which police create and control their own image ( image work), and the widespread tendency of popular media to portray policing in a sympathetic light ( copaganda). We disambiguate these distinct yet overlapping concepts and offer a framework to illustrate how discursive challenges, or ruptures, to PIC hegemony are absorbed and repressed essentially foreclosing abolitionist imaginings.
Self-reported history of physical intimate partner violence and longitudinal cognitive performance in midlife women
Authors: Baker Jillian S , Greendale Gail A , Hood Michelle M , Karlamangla Arun S , Harlow Siobán D
Published: December 2024

Background:

Intimate partner violence affects about a third of women in their lifetimes and can result in short- and long-term health consequences, including less favorable performance on measures of cognitive function.

Objectives:

We assess whether experiencing physical intimate partner violence in midlife was associated with steeper declines in subsequent tests of cognitive performance.

Design:

This study used data from 1713 women in the longitudinal cohort Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation to relate baseline information on physical intimate partner violence to declines in scores from the Symbol Digit Modalities Test, the East Boston Memory Test and the Digit Span Backwards spanning follow-up visits 7 through 15.

Methods:

Separate linear mixed models were constructed for each cognitive test outcome. Analyses were adjusted for race-ethnicity, education, financial strain, depressive symptoms, trouble sleeping, and bodily pain.

Results:

At Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation baseline, 3.1% of participants reported experiencing physical intimate partner violence in the prior year. In adjusted models, women who reported violence evidenced a statistically significant greater annualized decline (−0.17 points, 95% CI: −0.28, −0.06) in working memory (Digit Span Backwards test), compared to women who had not reported prior-year violence at baseline.

Conclusion:

Midlife women with a history of physical intimate partner violence exhibited a persistent decrease in the trajectory of working memory. These longitudinal findings extend previous cross-sectional reports which found that physical intimate partner violence had detrimental effects on working memory. These findings provide additional evidence that intimate partner violence is associated with decreases in working memory performance. They underscore the importance of further research into intimate partner violence and cognition during middle age, a particularly understudied life stage.
Wrestling with complexities of rural school contexts: Learning from Deputy principals’ leadership experiences
Authors: Blose Sibonelo , Mbatha Ayanda
Published: December 2024

South African communities may be viewed in three categories – rural, semi-urban and urban. These communities are unequal in terms of infrastructure and economic opportunities, among other things. The inequities among the communities extend to schools as microcosms of communities. Schools in urban areas enjoy inter alia better infrastructure, reasonable resources and fundraising opportunities, while schools in rural areas suffer from problems such as poor infrastructure, lack of resources, and high poverty rates. This paper reports on a narrative inquiry that focused specifically on the effects of rural school complexities on the leadership practices of deputy principals. The findings revealed contextual complexities, including, a feeling of helplessness due to the inadequacy of resources, overwhelming workloads, and dealing with learners from below the poverty line households. These complexities constrain the leadership exercised by deputy principals and necessitate a continuous push-back reaction. Thus, the findings also show practices through which the deputy principals defy the complexities of rural school contexts.
On-beat rhythm and working memory are associated with better speech-in-noise perception for older adults with hearing loss
Authors: Lo Chi Yhun , Dubinsky Ella , Wright-Whyte Kay , Zara Michael , Singh Gurjit , Russo Frank A
Published: December 2024

Even with the use of hearing aids (HAs), speech in noise perception remains challenging for older adults, impacting communication and quality of life outcomes. The association between music perception and speech-in-noise (SIN) outcomes is of interest, as there is evidence that professionally trained musicians are adept listeners in noisy environments. Thus, this study explored the association between music processing, cognitive factors, and the outcome variable of SIN perception, in older adults with hearing loss. Forty-two HA users aged between 57 and 90 years with a symmetrical, moderate-to-moderately severe hearing loss participated in this study. Our findings suggest that on-beat rhythm accuracy, pitch perception, and working memory all positively contribute to SIN perception for older adults with hearing loss. These findings provide key insights into the relationship between music, cognitive factors, and SIN perception, which may inform future interventions, rehabilitation, and the mechanisms that support better SIN perception.
The enduring importance of the “fine cuts” approach to psychology: EPS Mid-Career Award Lecture 2024
Authors: Bird Geoffrey
Published: December 2024

In this article, I take a selective review of work undertaken by my colleagues and me in an attempt to show the enduring importance of the “fine cuts” approach to psychology. This approach highlights the importance of causal, specific, and falsifiable psychological models, and the rigorous experimental designs needed to test them. I hope the review shows that it is still necessary to consider cognition, despite the exciting advances in Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, and computational modelling characterising our field.
Respice Polum in Colombia's Voting Behaviour in the UN General Assembly: What the Evidence Shows
Authors: Moreno León Carlos E. , Fajardo-Heyward Paola
Published: December 2024

What determines small states’ behaviour in multi-lateral organisations? Mainstream theories of international relations expect small states to be conditioned by the power asymmetries in which they are immersed. Recent work has revisited this assumption, highlighting the need to understand the conditions in which small states can exert some agency. We use the case of Colombia to test our argument. Due to the close relationship that Colombia has with the United States, scholars describe Colombia’s behaviour as subordinated to US interests. We provide a more nuanced view of the reasons behind Colombia's foreign policy. We review Colombia's voting behaviour in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and analyse the circumstances under which Colombia votes the same way as the United States. Our findings suggest that while some types of foreign aid and trade dependency increase the chances that Colombia and the US vote similarly in the UNGA, counternarcotics aid decreases the likelihood that Colombia votes as the United States does. Our findings suggest that factors not associated with United States influence predict Colombia's support of United States in the UNGA. For example, the voting behaviour of Latin American and Caribbean Nations.
Students’ Perceptions of Mathematics Teachers’ Implementation of Problem-Based Learning Practices in Tanzania
Authors: Kikomelo Sikutegemea , Gowele Jesline , Mofi Hawa
Published: December 2024

Curricula in different countries emphasize that teachers implement problem-based learning (PBL) practices to develop students with problem-solving skills and enhance their academic performance. However, several studies have revealed that academic performance among students, particularly in mathematics, is low, particularly in Tanzania. Using a cross-sectional research design, this study examined students’ perceptions of mathematics teachers’ implementation of PBL practices in secondary schools. Data from 357 students in the Arusha City Council were collected via questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, an independent samples t test, and two-way multivariate analysis of variance were used to analyze the collected data. In total, 75.25% of the students reported high perceptions of the implementation of PBL practices. School type was significantly different, F(6, 350) = 5.552, p < .001, whereas gender was not. The study recommends training teachers in PBL practices, specifically small group discussions, student-centered learning, and the teacher, as facilitators to enhance academic performance in mathematics.
Quantification of Different Types of Waste and Batteries Associated With the Widespread Usage of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
Authors: Petry Sebastian F , Bienhaus Marie , Petry Friedrich W , Petry Johannes K , Heinemann Lutz , Gäth Stefan
Published: December 2024

Background:

People with diabetes benefit from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. A downside of these valuable aids for diabetes management is the generation of a tremendous amount of waste. This study aimed to quantify this CGM-related waste.

Method:

Twenty-four used CGM sensors from two different manufacturers (8× FreeStyle Libre 2, 11× FreeStyle Libre 3, and 5× Dexcom G7) were dismantled manually and separated in case, circuit board, and battery. Each component as well as included packaging, applicator, and leaflet were weighed separately.

Results:

Packaging, applicators, and leaflets accounted for most of the waste (FL2: 93.4 g; FL3: 58 g; G7: 108.1 g). The plastic case contributed mainly to the total sensor weight (FL2: 1.9 g/63% of 3.3 g; FL3: 0.5 g/49% of 1.1 g; G7: 1.9 g/59% of 3.2 g), whereas the weight of the electronic circuit board and battery varied (FL2: 0.8 g/25%, 0.4 g/12%; FL3: 0.2 g/17%, 0.4 g/34%; G7: 0.7 g/22%, 0.6 g/19%). Extrapolating these data based on annual worldwide usage of around 230 million glucose sensors, approximately 20,000 tons of packaging, applicators, and leaflets and 580 tons of glucose sensors are disposed of, including about 340 tons of casings, 130 tons of circuit boards, and 110 tons of batteries.

Conclusions:

Our data highlight the potential for optimized resource utilization by reduction of packaging, sensor size, longer application periods, implementation of multiuse applicators, and the need for recycling options.
Expectations and Outcomes From Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists As Adjunct Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes – Case Presentations
Authors: Seetharaman Sujatha , Cengiz Eda
Published: December 2024

Background:

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is characterized by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, leading to lifelong insulin dependence. Despite advancements in insulin therapies and glucose monitoring, maintaining optimal blood glucose control remains challenging with common issues like weight gain and glucose variability. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity, are being explored off-label for T1D.

Case Report:

This case series investigates the effectiveness of GLP-1 RAs, mainly semaglutide and tirzepatide, as an adjunct therapy to insulin in adolescents and young adults (AYA) with T1D, in a single center, providing real-world insights and highlighting practical issues.

Discussion:

Most patients had obesity, consistent with typical indication for use in AYA. Common gastrointestinal side effects improved with dose titration, but careful monitoring is needed for persistent symptoms. One patient developed an eating disorder, underscoring the need for vigilance. Insurance and medication shortage issues impacted treatment continuity, highlighting the need for better support. Glycemic parameters improved in most patients, with weight reduction in several patients with obesity, and no reported diabetic ketoacidosis.

Conclusions:

GLP-1 RAs can be a beneficial adjunct therapy in T1D, improving glycemic control, reducing insulin needs, and supporting weight management, while potentially preventing long-term cardiovascular and renal complications.
Self-assessment model for achieving the intended learning outcomes
Authors: Huu Phat Nguyen , Tangworakitthaworn Preecha , Gilbert Lester
Published: December 2024

The academic performance of learners can be measured by determining the learning results with the intended learning outcomes (ILOs). ILOs principles have encouraged learners to improve their competencies. The existing approaches for evaluating learner capacity lack a correlation between the actual learning outcomes and the ILOs. This study has proposed a new self-assessment model that allows learners to realize their ILO achievement during the learning processes towards enhancing their competencies. The Self-Regulated Learning Management (SRLM) system, implemented the ILO-based Self-Assessment Model (ISAM), has been developed for this research. The personalized learning paths in SRLM are constructed based on Bloom’s taxonomy, the Structure of Observed Learning Outcome (SOLO), and the Constructive alignment. The experimental study was conducted on ninety-two ( N = 92) university learners learning in the Database Management course. They were asked to complete a voluntary survey rating their achievement on learning outcomes of the course. The results showed that learners who were provided the ILO achievement information during the learning processes performed better academically than their peers in the same class. This conclusion was derived from t test analyses on the dataset of learners’ test scores in the experimental course and is statistically significant. Simultaneously, most learners who participated in the research expressed satisfaction with the proposed model.
Do political finance reforms really reduce corruption? A replication study
Authors: Lipcean Sergiu , Casal Bértoa Fernando
Published: December 2024

In their 2021 article published in the British Journal of Political Science, Calla Hummel, John Gerring, and Thomas Burt (henceforth Hummel et al.) examine the relationship between political finance reforms and corruption, concluding that state funding of political parties reduces corruption by diminishing reliance on private financing. Our replication study challenges this conclusion based on data accuracy and operationalization issues of their key explanatory variable – Political Finance Subsidy Index (PFSI) – and using alternative model specifications and regional subsamples. While our partial data corrections and re-coding do not significantly differ from the Hummel et al. findings, the substantial regional heterogeneity regarding public party funding – corruption relationship and the results’ sensitivity to alternative modelling choices such as two-way fixed effects, country fixed effects, and time fixed effects, cast doubt on the reliability of their results. Our findings underscore the methodological challenges in assessing the effects of public funding reforms and emphasize the need for refined measurements and careful consideration of regional contexts. Although public funding may help combat corruption under specific institutional conditions, its effects are not universally consistent, calling for greater caution in deriving policy implications from cross-national analyses.
A scoping review of the patient experience with wearable technology
Authors: Hoff Timothy , Kitsakos Aliya , Silva Jasmine
Published: December 2024

Objective

This scoping review explores patients’ experience with wearable technology. Its aims are to: (a) examine studies that contain empirical findings related to patients’ experience with wearables; (b) compare these findings within and across studies; and (c) identify areas in need of greater understanding.

Methods

A Preferred Reporting Items for Scoping Review (PRISMA) guided approach was followed. Four databases of peer-reviewed articles (CINAHL, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science) were searched for empirical articles involving patients’ experience of using wearable technology. A standardized data abstraction form recorded relevant information on the articles identified. Data analysis included frequency counts for all abstracted categories; and itemized (by study) findings related to patients’ wearable experience including satisfaction.

Results

Forty-six studies comprised the final review sample. The research literature examining patients’ wearable experience is characterized by variety in terms of sample sizes, medical situations and wearable devices examined, research settings, and geographic location. This literature supports a positive patient experience with wearables in terms of satisfaction and usability, although the evidence is mixed when it comes to comfort. The moderate to higher satisfaction, usability, and comfort findings across studies do not suggest any sort of pattern with respect to the type of wearable, medical situation, or location.

Conclusions

The review findings suggest that health care organizations should view wearable technology as a viable complement to traditional aspects of patient care. However, from a patient experience standpoint, there is still much to know and validate in this regard, especially as the technology continues to advance.
The effectiveness of digital health versus standard care on exclusive breastfeeding duration among postpartum mothers in LMIC: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Thepha Thiwawan , Carr Gillian , Marais Debbi , Kuasri Jatuporn , Klangphaow Kritsana , Tangpukdee Juraporn
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of digital health interventions compared to standard care in promoting exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among postpartum women in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

The PRISMA guidelines of reporting were followed for the searching of four databases and screening following eligibility criteria: articles presenting digital health interventions, conducted as randomized control trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental, or mixed-method studies, reporting on EBF duration and early initiation of breastfeeding, and published in the English language were included.

Results

Of 1595 articles screened, only 10 published between 2013 and 2023 met the criteria. Most studies were from Nigeria (n = 3), with others from Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, China, India, and Lebanon. Six were RCTs, and four were quasi-experimental. The meta-analysis shows digital health interventions significantly increase EBF duration, with the strongest effects at 6 months (odds ratio (OR) = 2,1.66–2.40), followed by 5, 3, 2, and 1 month postpartum, including the initial feed.

Conclusion

This suggests digital health interventions have the potential to enhance breastfeeding practices among postpartum mothers in LMICs. For future research, it is essential to consider accessibility, delivery intervention, healthcare professional collaboration, and the sustainable development of digital health interventions for postpartum mothers in LMICs.
Effects of Physical Activity and Exercise Interventions on Health Outcomes in Occupational Drivers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zeb Alam , Verbrugghe Jonas , Neven An , Burtin Chris , Janssens Lotte , Meus Timo , Timmermans Annick
Published: December 2024

Background:

Occupational drivers are exposed to a wide range of risk factors, including sedentary behavior and physical inactivity, which can contribute to various chronic diseases. However, exercise interventions are likely to alleviate the negative associations and reduce chronic disease risks. This systematic review aimed to inventorize research studies investigating the effects of physical activity and exercise interventions on health outcomes in occupational drivers, and to assess interventions that have demonstrated effectiveness on health outcomes in occupational drivers.

Methods:

The electronic databases “Web of Science,” “Scopus,” and “PubMed” were searched using keywords related to “occupational drivers,” “exercise,” and “health outcomes.” Studies were included if they examined the effects of physical activity and exercise among occupational drivers on the following health outcomes: pain, disability, lifestyle factors (sleep, weight, physical activity, nutrition), fatigue, stress, and cardiometabolic risk factors. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias tools for randomized and non-randomized studies.

Results:

Fourteen articles were included (three randomized and 11 non-randomized controlled trials). All studies were judged to have an overall risk of bias as “some concerns, low, moderate or serious.” Evidence suggests that stretching and isometric exercises have significantly improved pain, disability, and fatigue. In contrast, multicomponent lifestyle interventions have enhanced physical activity levels, cardiometabolic risk factors, anthropometrics (body mass index, weight, waist circumference), sleep, and dietary intake among occupational drivers.

Conclusion:

The available evidence indicates the potential benefits of exercise interventions and physical activity for health outcomes in occupational drivers. However, high-quality studies are needed in the future to establish stronger evidence supporting the effect of the exercise intervention.
The hysterectomy economics
Authors: Al-Hendy Ayman , Ciebiera Michał , Malasevskaia Iana , Tanna Resham , Bączkowska Monika
Published: December 2024

Uterine fibromas are an incredibly common condition, affecting the quality of life of both individuals and the whole society and carrying significant direct and indirect costs. UFs are mostly benign tumors, which in many cases can be treated with pharmacological and minimally invasive methods. However, in a significant proportion of cases, patients undergo a hysterectomy, which is undeniably an effective, recurrence-free treatment option for uterine fibromas but also an extensive abdominal operation. The problem of the elevated number of performed hysterectomies should be highlighted. There is a substantial need for regulation changes on the hospital quota, a better costs transparency, and a shared decision-making. We should encourage the use of new drugs and minimally invasive surgery and limit the hysterectomy for cases when it cannot be avoided. If performing surgical procedure is difficult then not performing is even more difficult. The appropriateness of surgery is our goal.
Bertolotti syndrome presenting as pudendal neuralgia: A case report
Authors: Banks Dylan W , Michalak Nathan , Kane Luke , Siefferman Jason W
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Bertolotti syndrome involves clinical symptoms resulting from a lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV). This condition can alter pelvic biomechanics and may create a rub site between the transverse process (TP) and the sacral ala and/or ilium. Anatomically, it is found in up to 36% of the population and can present with a variety of symptoms, including back, groin, and leg pain. We present the first reported case of genital pain attributed to Bertolotti syndrome to increase awareness of the multiple pain referral sites associated with transitional structures.

Case description:

A 68-year-old female presented with a 30-year history of right-sided vulvodynia extending to her rectum. She had previously undergone years of pelvic physical therapy, tried multiple oral and topical medications, and had multiple non-diagnostic pudendal nerve and ganglion impar blocks. Pelvic CT revealed a LSTV with peaked sacral alae and a reduced gap between the L5 TP and sacral ala on both sides. Two fluoroscopically guided diagnostic lidocaine injections into the interaction site between the TP and sacral ala resulted in a 60%–70% reduction in vulvodynia. These were the only procedures in her 30-year pain history that provided relief.

Conclusion:

Bertolotti syndrome can refer pain to the pelvis, mimicking pudendal neuralgia. A stepwise diagnostic approach ruled out other sources and confirmed the transitional vertebra as the pain generator.
Comparison of Inferior Extensor Retinacular Reinforcement Versus Nonreinforcement in Arthroscopic Isolated Anterior Talofibular Ligament Repair for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Shan Lei , Zhao Binzhi , Wang Hanzhou , Zhao Yanrui , Diao Shuo , Xu Xiaopei , Gao Yuling , Sun Qingnan , Lu Tianchao , Zhou Junlin , Liu Yang
Published: December 2024

Background:

Approximately 20% of acute ankle sprains progress to chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI), requiring surgical intervention. When only the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) is ruptured, it is controversial whether to perform arthroscopic inferior extensor retinacular (IER) reinforcement.

Purpose:

To assess the postoperative outcomes of IER reinforcement versus nonreinforcement in arthroscopic treatment of CLAI with ATFL-only injury.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched for publications on arthroscopic ATFL repair with versus without IER reinforcement. The final search date was July 7, 2023. Through a comprehensive meta-analysis, functional outcomes (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot [AOFAS], Karlsson-Peterson [K-P], and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score [FAOS] scores), radiological outcomes (talar anterior translation and talar tilt), and complication rates (superficial peroneal nerve injury, knot irritation, and total complications) were evaluated. The mean difference (MD) was compared for continuous outcomes, and the odds ratios (ORs) were compared for categorical outcomes between the patients with versus without IER reinforcement.

Results:

A total of 4 studies (n = 271 patients; 157 male, 114 female; 141 patients with IER reinforcement, 130 without IER reinforcement) were included in the final analysis. There were no significant differences between the patients with versus without reinforcement regarding AOFAS score (MD = 0.72 [95% CI, –2.17 to 3.61]; P = .63; I2 = 0%), any of the FAOS subscores, talar anterior translation (MD = 0.10 [95% CI, –0.53 to 0.73]; P = .76; I2 = 0%), talar tilt (MD = 0.14 [95% CI, –0.86 to 1.13]; P = .79; I2 = 0%), or total complications (OR = 2.29 [95% CI, 0.92 to 5.71]; P = .07; I2 = 24%). However, the IER reinforcement group showed superior postoperative K-P scores compared with the nonreinforcement group (MD = 6.22 [95% CI, 2.17 to 10.26]; P = .003; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion:

The results of the meta-analysis suggest that IER reinforcement may not be necessary for achieving satisfactory postoperative outcomes in CLAI with ATFL-only injury. Further research is required to investigate the impact of ligament injury severity, body weight, and concomitant calcaneofibular ligament injuries on the results.

Registration:

CRD42023447669 (PROSPERO).
Infectious Disease Management in Pediatric Emergency Departments in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Review of Diagnostic Tools, Treatment Protocols, and Preventive Measures
Authors: Alsabri Mohammed , Siddiq Abdelmonem , Aderinto Nicholas , Ishola Ibukunoluwa V. , Shahid Muhammad Azan , Kaul Aditya , Taha Nouran A. , Ahmad Amar Hizam , Gamboa Luis L
Published: December 2024

Pediatric Emergency Departments (PEDs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face significant challenges in managing infectious diseases due to limited resources, poor infrastructure, and socioeconomic barriers. This review explores the burden of infectious diseases in pediatric populations, the diagnostic tools available, treatment protocols, and preventive measures implemented in LMIC PEDs. We emphasize the need for an integrated approach to improve health outcomes, focusing on enhancing healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare workers, and promoting public health awareness. Key recommendations and future directions are discussed to address the critical gaps and challenges in managing pediatric infectious diseases in these settings.
Childhood Vaccinations and Associated Factors in 35 Sub-Saharan African Countries: Secondary Analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys Data from 358 949 Under-5 Children
Authors: Ekholuenetale Michael , Ochagu Victor A. , Ilesanmi Olayinka Stephen , Badejo Okikiolu , Arora Amit
Published: December 2024

Objective. We examined childhood vaccinations coverage and its associated factors in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries. Methods. We used demographic and health surveys (DHSs) data collected between 2008 and 2022 from 35 SSA countries. A sample of 358 949 under-5 children was analyzed. Percentage and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were conducted. A 5% significance level was set. Results. Rwanda (7461/8092; 92.2%), Burundi (10 792/13 192; 81.8%), Gambia (6548/8362; 78.3%), Kenya (14 570/19 530; 74.6%), and Burkina Faso (8739/12 343; 70.8%) had the leading coverage of under-5 children who received all basic vaccinations in the first year of life. For every unit increase in the age of a child, there was 72% increase in the odds of vaccination. Children from older mothers had higher odds of vaccination, when compared with children with mothers aged 15 to 19 years. There was a 6% reduction in the odds of vaccination among children from rural residence, when compared with their urban counterparts. Children with educated mothers had over two times higher odds of vaccination, when compared with those from mothers with no formal education. Children from rich households had higher odds of vaccination, when compared with children from poorest household. There was a 13% increase in the odds of vaccination among children covered by health insurance, when compared with those not covered by health insurance. Conclusion. Vaccination uptake for children under-5 in SSA was found to be sub-optimal and associated with several factors. A health educational intervention for pregnant women could potentially increase the uptake of vaccines among children.
A Preliminary Assessment of Op-Ed Writing With Graduate Public Health Students as a Pedagogical Tool to Increase Health Promotion Advocacy Skills
Authors: Alexander Apryl A. , Fandetti Stacy , Peters Ava
Published: December 2024

Advocacy in public health is crucial in addressing systemic inequities and disparities in the public health system. Public health professionals can benefit from learning skills in public scholarship to engage in public health advocacy. Public scholarship challenges professionals to disseminate research and knowledge compellingly for a broader impact. Opinion editorials, or op-eds, are among many ways to communicate public health knowledge to the community. The present study examines the effectiveness of teaching graduate public health students how to write op-eds through explicit teaching methods. Participants were 14 graduate public health students enrolled in a Health Policy and Leadership course. Results indicated that op-ed assignments could encourage students to engage in public health advocacy.
Blockchain for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry
Authors: Mardini D. Cerda , Sharma M. , Madathil S.
Published: December 2024

The race for developing and marketing the best inline artificial intelligence (AI) solutions is already in full swing in the dental industry. While regulators are trying to keep up with this fast-paced innovation, end users of these technologies must be on guard to navigate this new landscape safely. Trust is the foundation for this guardrail. Although regulatory approvals can provide some level of trust to an AI solution, users must be empowered with the knowledge of essential vocabulary and semantics to ask the right questions to assess the trustworthiness of the solution. This commentary elaborates on one technology proposed to build trustworthiness in AI solutions: blockchain. Further, we enlist a nonexhaustive list of questions for the users to ask when considering AI solutions in dentistry that may claim to use blockchain technology.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

The topic discussed in this commentary could serve as an initial inquiry point that deeply probes into the trustworthiness of an AI solution that a user might consider applying in the field of dentistry.
Yin-Yang Staining Technique to Create a Nonstained Internal Limiting Membrane Flap to Cover Large Idiopathic Macular Holes
Authors: Ni Yao , Xing Shuwen , Chen Baizhou , Zhang Zhaotian
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To describe a modified technique for negative and positive (Yin-Yang) staining of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to create a nonstained ILM flap that covers large idiopathic macular holes (MHs). Methods: Consecutive patients with large idiopathic MHs (>400 μm) were prospectively included in the study. After the central vitreous was removed, a droplet of triamcinolone acetonide was injected, covering the MH and surrounding area. Subsequently, indocyanine green (ICG) was injected to stain the outer area of the ILM, followed by creation of a flap from the temporal stained area. Finally, the nonstained ILM flap was inverted to cover the MH. The main outcomes included the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), macular contour, and integrity of the outer retina. Results: This study comprised 31 patients (31 eyes). Of the eyes, 28 (90.3%) achieved primary MH closure. The mean minimum linear diameter and base diameter of the MH was 593 ± 119 μm and 1082 ± 242 μm, respectively. At the 6-month follow-up, 12 eyes (38.7%) and 9 eyes (29.0%) had regained a U-shaped or V-shaped macular contour, respectively. In addition, the mean logMAR BCVA improved from 1.06 ± 0.30 preoperatively to 0.56 ± 0.31 ( P < .001). Twenty-one eyes (67.7%) and 16 eyes (51.6%) had regained integrity of the external limiting membrane and ellipsoid zone, respectively, at the 6-month follow-up. Conclusions: The modified ILM staining technique using triamcinolone acetonide and ICG sequentially is a safe and effective method of creating a nonstained ILM flap that covers large MHs and prevents the foveal area from coming into direct contact with ICG.