bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rising public interest in stem cell therapy for erectile dysfunction: an analysis of public perception and a review of the literature
Authors: Hammad Muhammed A. M. , Miller Jake , Sultan Mark I. , Abou Chawareb Elia , Nakamura Hana S. , Martinez Juan R. , Lumbiganon Supanut , Jenkins Lawrence , Barham David W. , Bandaru Dhiresh , Yih Jessica M. , Yafi Faysal A.
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

The use of alternative treatment modalities for erectile dysfunction (ED) beyond phosphodiesterase inhibitors continues to grow within the practice of Urology. Utilizing U.S. Google trends as a novel epidemiological tool for geographically associating patient search intent, our study aims to capture trends relating to interest in stem cell therapy (SCT) as a potential treatment for ED.

Methods:

An online search was conducted to identify centers in the United States offering stem cell therapy (SCT) for erectile dysfunction (ED), using specific keywords such as “ED treatment,” “stem cells for ED,” and “sexual health stem cell.” The geographic distribution of these centers was mapped, and their publicly available information was evaluated based on strict inclusion criteria, including direct claims of SCT efficacy for ED and oversight by a licensed urologist. The public interest in SCT treatment was quantified using Google Trends data from July 2018 to July 2023, utilizing search terms related to SCT and comparing them to terms associated with alternative regenerative therapies like platelet-rich plasma and shockwave treatments, to extract the direction and magnitude of national interest over the preceding 5 years. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were then searched from inception to May 2024 regarding evidence for the use of SCT to treat ED.

Results:

Despite insufficient evidence, public search interest demonstrates an upward trajectory of this treatment when compared to alternative regenerative therapies for ED. This increased interest in SCT as a potential treatment option for ED may be linked to the marketing efforts of commercial entities. Throughout the qualitative analysis of advertisement sources, only two websites (Stem Cells Transplant Institute, and Ambrose Cell Therapy) summarized the collective results of a directed clinical trial investigating the utility of SCT in ED patients.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrates the public prevalence of patients seeking SCT as a treatment modality for ED is increasing. In addition, varied sources nationwide promote SCT despite limited scientific evidence and consensus. This disparity calls for additional prospective research on the viability, efficacy, and long-term safety of SCT in the context of ED.
Authoritarian Securitisation and Moral Panic: The Discourse and Role of the Senate in the 2023 Thai Election
Authors: Raymond Gregory V.
Published: February 2025

In Thailand's 2023 election, an appointed Senate controlled who became prime minister. To better understand the thinking of key actors in this critical moment, this paper examines the discourse of senators who publicly commented prior to the 13 July joint sitting of the Thai parliament, where election-winning candidate Pita Limcharoenrat was blocked. This paper argues that the two predominant narratives justifying the veto, protecting Thailand's lèse-majesté law and guarding against chaos and conflict, can be analysed in four dimensions: affective, strategic, coordinative and communicative. Affectively, the narratives reflected moral panic in relation to the youth-led change in attitudes towards the monarchy. Strategically, the narratives protected elite interests via securitisation, in which a state of severe threat is invoked and used to justify extreme policies. Coordinatively, the narratives signalled to elites the costs of transgression and communicatively, they conveyed to broader Thai society the potential for conservative-sponsored street protest.
Does Saying “Thanks a Lot” Make You Look Less Than? The Magnitude of Gratitude Shapes Perceptions of Relational Hierarchy
Authors: Laurin Kristin , Guan Kate W. , Younge Ayana
Published: February 2025

Gratitude expressions provide shared warmth benefits to both the thanker and the helper. Little work has explored how gratitude expressions shift how observers see these individuals on another important dimension: their relative rank. We consider how the magnitude of gratitude expressions shapes observers’ perceptions of the thanker’s and helper’s relative status and power. Seven studies find that thankers who expressed more, compared to less, intense gratitude than expected made their helpers seem relatively higher rank, though this pattern was inconsistent across metrics of gratitude in studies using real-world expressions. These effects emerged across a range of contexts and relationships. Mechanism analyses yielded several null results, while underscoring the role of perceptions of agency. Observers may make their inferences directly, based on intuiting the real association between a thanker’s gratitude and their helper’s power and status. Our findings demonstrate that gratitude signals rank relationships, qualifying current recommendations to express gratitude publicly.
Making Evidence-Based Decision Making Ecologically Rational
Authors: Grawitch Matthew J. , Lavigne Kristi N. , Smets Koen , Mudigonda Srikanth P. , Winton Steven L.
Published: February 2025

This paper examines Evidence-Based Decision Making (EBDM) within the context of ecological rationality. It contrasts classical rationality, which prioritizes comprehensive and logical evidence utilization, with ecological rationality, which emphasizes practical decision making (DM) under real-world constraints. Our examination underscores the importance of adaptive heuristics, professional judgment, and the integration of experience and expertise in forming intuitive responses. It also examines the limitations of framing intuitive versus analytical thinking as a strict dichotomy and advocates for a balanced approach that considers context and practical constraints. Finally, the paper addresses the potential impacts of motivated reasoning and bias in decision-making. Concluding with practical recommendations, it guides practitioners in applying EBDM in an ecologically rational way, stressing the need to balance an emphasis on classical rationality with professional judgment, expertise, and the specificities of each decision context.
An analogue approach to investigate non-fear emotions and working mechanisms in imagery rescripting and imaginal exposure: Preliminary findings
Authors: Schlünzen Jessica , Kulla Patricia , Kruse Joachim
Published: February 2025

Some studies suggest Imagery Rescripting (ImRs) may be more effective than Imaginal Exposure (IE) for processing trauma when non-fear emotions are predominant. ImRs has been proposed to work through positive memory revaluation and increasing mastery, while IE focuses on fear toleration through inhibitory learning. We present standardized ImRs and IE analogues to explore their impact on non-fear emotions and underlying mechanisms. Forty-one participants selected an autobiographic event and were randomly assigned to ImRs, IE, or a control condition. Core elements of ImRs and IE were delivered via audio. We repeatedly assessed event-related emotions, distress, mastery, and tolerance for negative emotions. Participants in ImRs showed greater reductions in distress, fear, and anger, but not in self-conscious emotions, compared to IE. Unexpectedly, IE participants experienced increased negative emotions, including fear, with no specific advantage for increasing tolerance. Reductions in negative emotions were also observed in the control group. We found tentative indications for positive revaluation following ImRs. In conclusion, the ImRs analogue largely facilitated expected changes, while IE led to adverse effects. We discuss potential reasons for these findings and suggest improvements for the analogues and overall procedure.
Adherence to minimal retesting interval for HbA1c, vitamin D and thyrotropin in the University Hospital of Nepal
Authors: Saroj Thapa , Meera Hada , Bhushan Tusuju , Apeksha Niraula
Published: February 2025

Background:

Laboratory testing plays a critical role in healthcare decision-making; however, concerns regarding overutilization and inappropriate testing persist. Minimum retesting intervals serve as a tool to optimize testing practices and resource allocation. This study aimed to assess adherence to minimum retesting interval guidelines and estimate associated costs for commonly prescribed tests, namely HbA1c, 25 hydroxyvitamin D (Vitamin D), and thyrotropin, in a university hospital setting in Nepal.

Methods:

This observational study utilized secondary data from medical records covering 1 year. Adherence to minimum retesting interval guidelines was evaluated based on established recommendations, and the economic burden of inappropriate testing was estimated using cost data provided by the Health Insurance Board of Nepal.

Results:

Patients who underwent TSH, HbA1c, and Vitamin D testing during the study period were 27,960, 8558, and 5416 with the total number of tests being 38,718 TSH, 13,859 HbA1c, and 5977 Vitamin D, respectively. There were notable proportions of patients with minimum retesting interval breach, that is, n = 1317 for thyroid stimulating hormone (4.71%), n = 1159 for HbA1c (13.54%) and n = 232 for Vitamin D (4.28%). Minimum retesting interval breaches were identified across all parameters, with associated costs of $12,817 which could be saved if there were no minimum retesting interval breaches. Variations in minimum retesting interval adherence were observed between insured and noninsured patients and among tests falling within and outside reference ranges.

Conclusion:

The findings highlight the prevalence of minimum retesting interval breaches and inappropriate testing practices, emphasizing the need for interventions to optimize laboratory testing utilization. Addressing these challenges through context-specific strategies can enhance resource allocation and patient care while mitigating financial burdens.
The UK's Early Access to Medicines Scheme 10 years on: an evaluation using publicly available data
Authors: Pound Pandora , Ram Rebecca , Archibald Kathy
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To investigate the drugs and indications that have passed through the UK's Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS) to date, the type of evidence the regulator considers when accepting a drug into the EAMS, and potential risks to patients.

Design

Analysis of publicly available data: MHRA Public Assessment Reports; Electronic Medicines Compendium database; interactive Drug Analysis Profiles database; Eudravigilance database.

Setting

United Kingdom.

Participants

The 51 ‘scientific opinions’ available on the MHRA website in June 2024.

Main Outcome Measures

Public Assessment Reports, pharmacovigilance data.

Results

After exclusions, there were 48 EAMS submissions, consisting of 48 indications and 32 drugs. 60% of indications were for cancer. Only 7% of EAMS submissions were based on double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised trials. The average sample size of studies conducted for the EAMS was 654. Most studies used surrogate (76%) and/or survival (57%) outcomes. Only 17% used subjective outcomes. For 17% of the indications, no ongoing studies were being conducted. Animal studies were conducted preclinically for all drugs and 35% also conducted in vitro studies. 47% of the drugs had elevated rates of suspected adverse reaction reports according to pharmacovigilance data.

Conclusions

We recommend that the EAMS drugs with elevated reporting rates are reviewed, that future studies of EAMS drugs use patient-centred outcomes, that preclinical studies make greater use of human biology-based approaches, that post-approval trials are conducted, and that future reviews of the EAMS centre the experience of patients.
Harnessing digital health data for suicide prevention and care: A rapid review
Authors: Bennett-Poynter Laura , Kundurthi Sridevi , Besa Reena , Joyce Dan W. , Kormilitzin Andrey , Shen Nelson , Sunwoo James , Szkudlarek Patrycja , Sequiera Lydia , Sikstrom Laura
Published: February 2025

Background and aim

Suicide is a global public health issue disproportionately impacting equity-deserving groups. Recent advances in Artificial Intelligence and increased access to a variety of digital data sources have enabled the development of novel and personalized suicide prevention strategies. However, standards on how to harness these data in a comprehensive and equitable way remain unclear. The primary aim of this study is to identify considerations for the collection and use of digital health data for suicide prevention and care. The results will inform the development of a data governance framework for a multinational suicide prevention mHealth platform.

Method

We used a modified Cochrane Rapid Reviews Method. Inclusion criteria focused on primary studies published in English from 2007 to the present that referenced the use of digital health data in the context of suicide prevention and care. Screening and data extraction was performed independently by multiple reviewers, with disagreements resolved through discussion. Qualitative and quantitative synthesis methods were employed to identify emergent themes.

Results

Our search identified 2453 potential articles, with 70 meeting inclusion criteria. We found little consensus on best practices for the collection and use of digital health data for suicide prevention and care. Issues of data quality, fairness and equity persist, compounded by inadequate consideration of key governance issues including privacy and trust, especially in multinational initiatives.

Conclusions

Recommendations for future research and practice include prioritizing engagement with knowledge users, establishing robust data governance frameworks aligned with clinical guidelines, and leveraging advanced analytics, such as natural language processing, to improve the quality of health equity data.
Preliminary study: Data analytics for predicting medication adherence in Malaysian arthritis patients
Authors: Aziz Firdaus , Sooriamoorthy Shubathira , Liew Bryan , Syed Ahmad Sharifah M. , Chong Wei Wen , Malek Sorayya , Mhd Ali Adliah
Published: February 2025

Objective

In multi-ethnic Malaysian populations, understanding and improving medication adherence in arthritis patients is crucial for enhancing treatment outcomes. Non-adherence, whether intentional or due to complex factors, can lead to severe long-term consequences such as increased disability and disease progression. This study analysed and predicted Malaysian arthritis medication adherence using 13 machine learning models.

Methods

A majority of 151 responders (82.1%) were female and 58.3% had comorbid illnesses. Notably, 90.07% of respondents were non-adherence to their prescription, with significant differences by occupation and aids in medication. This study's machine learning models perform better with recursive feature elimination for feature selection. Key variables included occupation, presence of other diseases, religion, income, medication aid, marital status, and number of medications taken per day. These variables were used to build predictive models for medication adherence.

Results

Results from machine learning algorithms showed varied performance. Support vector machine, gradient boosting, and random forest models performed best with AUC values of 0.907, 0.775, and 0.632 utilizing all variables. When using selected variables, random forest (AUC = 0.883), gradient boosting (AUC = 0.872), and Bagging (AUC = 0.860) performed best. Model interpretation using SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis identified occupation as the most important variable affecting medication adherence. The study also found that unemployment, concomitant disease, income, medication aid type, marital status, and daily medication count are connected with non-adherence.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the multifaceted nature of medication adherence in arthritis, highlighting the need for personalized approaches to improve adherence rates.
Social Data Migration Concept: Analyzing Transborder Data Flows in the Post-Industrial Economy
Authors: Masso Anu , Grotto Andrew , Lauriault Tracey P.
Published: February 2025

Transborder data flows offer opportunities, such as health data sharing, but they also bring risk. Research has explored the tensions between transnational and regional linkages, striving to understand when transborder flows of data bring benefits or drawbacks. By viewing global data flows as a social change process, this commentary strives to complement existing perspectives. It advocates embedding data studies within the framework of social transformation theory to transcend the distinction between theory and its empirical application across diverse social and cultural contexts. Inspired by Stephen Castles’ approach to human migration, it introduces the concept of “social data migration” as a dynamic social transformation. This approach enhances our understanding of the complex, interconnected, and context-dependent nature of transnational flows of data across platforms amid rapid global changes.
Barriers to Integrating Tobacco Dependence Treatment into Lung Cancer Screening: A Qualitative Assessment
Authors: Pestka Deborah L. , Campbell Megan E. , Schmulewitz Naomi A. , Melzer Anne C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction/objective:

We qualitatively assessed current practices and perceived barriers surrounding the integration of tobacco dependence treatment (TDT) into lung cancer screening (LCS).

Methods:

Informed by the Practical, Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model, we conducted semi-structured interviews with clinicians ( n = 18) at 6 Veterans Affairs medical centers in the Midwest.

Results:

TDT was usually addressed at an initial shared decision-making visit but often not with subsequent rounds of screening or nodule follow-up. No site was aware that any TDT-related outcomes were tracked within their program. While the LCS clinical reminders included some aspects of tobacco use (eg, tobacco pack-years), they did not support clinicians in offering TDT or capture outcomes and were perceived as “checkboxes to nowhere.” This was contrasted with other clinical reminders linked to dashboards that provide rolling feedback for important clinical outcomes (eg, diabetes care). Interviewees reported competing demands and limited expertise in motivational interventions as additional barriers. A dedicated team for TDT and a “one-click referral” were perceived as key success factors.

Conclusions:

TDT remains poorly integrated into LCS. Addressing identified barriers will require considerable investment in TDT resources and improvements to LCS tools to support the provision of cessation support.
Assessing the Influencing Factors of Performance on Cultural and Creative Supply Chain: An Empirical Study in Mainland China
Authors: Zhou Guanglan , Mo Lingjie
Published: February 2025

The fundamental reason for the series of difficulties in the development of the cultural and creative industry is the imbalance between the various links in the cultural and creative industry chain. The strategic method of how to promote the optimization and upgrade of cultural and creative supply chain is critical. In the process of supply chain transformation and upgrading, the scientific evaluation of supply chain efficiency is regarded as an essential basic work. Then, a three-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) model for evaluating a cultural and creative supply chain in China as well as in each province is presented. It combines the relevant data from 30 provinces in mainland China from 2013 to 2019, and focuses on the impact of the different influencing factors on cultural and creative supply chain efficiency. Besides, it compares and analyzes the calculated efficiency before and after the adjustment. After excluding environmental factors and random factors, the research shows that the cultural and creative efficiency in various regions has changed significantly, and the actual efficiency has a spatial imbalance. The results after data adjustment show that the annual efficiency values of the eastern and midland are higher than 0.70, while the northeast and western regions are lower than 0.50. Besides, green policy support from the government will have a negative impact on the number of outlets and employees of cultural enterprises, the sustainable development and low-carbon protection will have a positive impact on the two input slack variables.
Exploring Developmental Trajectories for English Language Teachers: Evidence From Professional Agency, Teacher Commitment, and Professional Learning Communities in Chinese Universities
Authors: Yuan Fan , Li Jia , Mao Yan
Published: February 2025

While an expanding body of evidence emerged recommending that teachers stay engaged with the professional learning communities (PLCs) to enhance career development, scant attention has been given to exploring the relationship between teacher agency and their professional commitment to PLCs. To bridge this gap, the current study aims to uncover teachers’ views on community practices and the enabling and restraining factors that influenced their enactment of professional agency in a sample of 10 Chinese university language teachers. Thematic analysis was applied to scrutinize the data collected from semi-structured interviews, community observation, reflective diary, and discussion minutes in PLCs. The results of teachers’ reported experience showed the significant effect of PLCs in constructing language teachers’ professional developmental trajectories, facilitated by the reciprocal relations between teacher agency and commitment. An inquiry into teacher engagement reported that the participants proactively exercised their agency through the dynamic interplay of teacher identity, professional learning knowledge, teacher trust, and school culture in the community context. In addition, teacher commitment to PLCs was shaped by community identity, learning demands, exercised efforts, and teacher turnover. Some important theoretical and practical implications of this study were discussed.
Does Uncertainty Affect the Banks’ Non-Performing Loans/Non-Performing Finance in the MENA Region? A Comparison Study Between Conventional and Islamic Banks in the MENA Regions
Authors: Aledeimat Shadi Ratib Mohammad , Bein Murad Abdurahman
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of uncertainties on the non-performing loans/ finance (NPL/NPF) of conventional and Islamic banks in the MENA region using data from 2005 to 2022. Based on inclusion and exclusion criteria and the purposive sampling technique, 92 banks were selected from 13 MENA countries, 42 of which are Islamic and 50 of which are conventional banks. The study used two estimation methods: Augmented Mean Group (AMG) and two-step Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to estimate the relationship between uncertainty and NPL/NPF. These estimation methods were chosen for their ability to provide unbiased results in the presence of cross-sectional dependence and deal with endogeneity. The study revealed that world pandemic uncertainty had a negative and significant influence on the NPL of conventional banks while showing a positive and significant influence on the NPF of Islamic banks. US trade policy uncertainty was found to have a negative and significant influence on the NPL of conventional banks. In contrast, it exhibited a positive and significant influence on the NPF of Islamic banks. We discovered a positive and significant influence of US sovereign debt risk uncertainty on the NPL/NPF of conventional and Islamic banks in the MENA region. The findings revealed a negative and significant influence of oil price uncertainty on the NPL/NPF of conventional and Islamic banks in the MENA regions. These findings reassure us that bank in the MENA region should adopt and tailor risk strategies based on sector-specific responses, engage in proactive risk monitoring, and maintain loan quality amid economic uncertainties.
Examining the Gender Gap in STI Policy: Addressing Factors Contributing to Women’s Underrepresentation
Authors: Meyer Caitlin , Baogui Du
Published: February 2025

Through a systematic review of the literature regarding (science, technology, and innovation) STI policy and its parent domains—(science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) STEM and policy-making—this article presents a systematic discussion on the key factors perpetuating the underrepresentation of women within STI policy. Eighty-three articles met the inclusion criteria and were coded for the literature synthesis. The analysis identified gender bias and inequitable education as the two key factors perpetuating the underrepresentation of women in STI policy and four overarching themes emerged. These themes included: (1) the need for more women in STI policy, (2) intersectionality and the underrepresentation of women in STI policy, (3) systemic issues in education and gender bias, and (4) the role of education in addressing the underrepresentation of women in STI policy, which involves exploring education frameworks and their potential impact on student learning. Future research directions to counter the underrepresentation of women in STI policy are then proposed.
A Systematic Literature Review on the Enterprise Content Management System Adoption to Combat Corruption
Authors: Alshammari Bader Obaid , Mokhtar Umi Asma’ , Abdulmanap Nazura
Published: February 2025

Enterprise Content Management Systems (ECMS) help organizations to improve efficiency and effectiveness. However, the successful adoption of ECMS depends on the accurate factors. The ability to identify the factors contributing to the successful adoption of a system like ECMS requires a systematic and comprehensive approach. Thus, this study adopts the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to ensure a comprehensive coverage and evidence-based findings, while the expert insights provide practical knowledge and validation of factors, with a specific focus on their application in anti-corruption efforts within public sector organizations. The combination of these methods enhance the credibility and relevance of the identified factors for organizations seeking to adopt ECMS effectively. The rigorous search strategy from 2012 to 2023, comprehensive screening process, and meticulous data extraction and analysis were done to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings, contributing valuable insights to the field of ECMS adoption. The SLR identified 41 factors that could potentially influence the adoption of ECMS. These factors were then ranked by ten experts who were selected based on their extensive experience and expertise in the field. The top 14 factors were security, top management support, training, laws and legislations, service quality, change management, AI tools integration, facilitating conditions, system quality, policy, social influence, information quality, and compatibility. This paper provides valuable insights for organizations that are considering adopting an ECMS. By considering the factors identified in this study, organizations can develop a more effective adoption strategy and increase the likelihood of successful implementation.
Exploring Relations Between Social and Emotional Skills and Bullying: The Role of Self-Concept and Empathy
Authors: Veríssimo Lurdes , Marques Alexandra , Costa Marisa , Castro Isabel , Martins Filipe , Miranda Francisca
Published: February 2025

Bullying in school has become a public health problem. Among the various bullying’s risk factors, the vulnerabilities associated with socio-emotional skills stand out. The present study aims to explore the relationship between bullying, victimization, self-concept, and empathy; to test differences in victimization and bullying between boys and girls; and to study predictors of victimization and bullying. Participated 107 adolescents from 12 to 17 years old characterized by multiple family, social, and economic vulnerabilities. Three measures were used to assess empathy, self-concept, and bullying/victimization experience. The results show a significant negative correlation between victimization and all dimensions of self-concept. Bullying is only associated to popularity. There is no association between empathy and bullying or victimization. Girls significantly experienced more victimization than boys. Boys performed more bullying than girls. Self-concept is a significant predictor of victimization and bullying. Results are discussed in light of the socio-emotional skills paradigm and its power in preventing bullying.
The Effect of Clean Intermittent Catheterization on Family and Social Relationships
Authors: Hayes Lillian C. , Tham Regina L. , Saunders Rachel A. , Choung Kennary , Keays Mélise A. , Bauer Stuart B.
Published: February 2025

Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is widely accepted for managing bladder dysfunction, preserving kidney function, and achieving continence. While CIC is frequently used in children, its impact on family and social relationships is not well understood. This study aims to explore the experience of children and adolescents needing CIC along with their families regarding the impact of CIC on their family and social life. This qualitative interview-based study used a phenomenological approach to gather information from patients and families between Aug 2018 and Oct 2019. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded, focusing on CIC’s impact on relationships with caregivers, siblings, friends, and intimate partners, and the use of or desire for peer-to-peer connection with individuals with similar medical conditions. A total of 52 interviews among 40 families were conducted. Common themes central to patient and family experiences were identified, including (1) navigation of CIC in relationships between patients and their caregivers, siblings, friends, and intimate partners; (2) communication and collaboration between caregivers when approaching CIC; and (3) relationship building with individuals with similar medical needs and members of their interprofessional team. These findings underscore the importance of collaborative family dynamics and the interprofessional team’s role in facilitating supportive relationships. Pediatric psychologists are uniquely positioned to provide interventions that can help patients and families encourage open communication, identify coping strategies, manage disclosure about CIC to peers and intimate partners, facilitate peer-to-peer mentorship, and provide education on sexual health to patients, families, and other members of the interprofessional team.
Adopting DEIA Initiatives: Impact on Training and Culture in Pediatric Academia
Authors: Liles Sophia M. , Quach Jessica J. , Abdullahi Aisha A. , Benhayoun Ashley , Dobbins Sidney , Orton Kerry E. , Olsavsky Anna L.
Published: February 2025

Objective: The Center for Biobehavioral Health (CBH) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) is a research center with approximately 75 trainees, permanent staff, and faculty. Since 2020, CBH has integrated diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programming with participation of employees across all training and career levels. The aim of this paper was to analyze DEIA survey data over three timepoints (2020, 2022, and 2023) to examine areas of growth, consistency, and decline. Methods: All CBH employees were emailed a survey in 2020, 2022, and 2023. Participation was anonymous and voluntary. Participation rates varied, with 46, 26, and 36 employees completing the survey in 2020, 2022, and 2023, respectively. The surveys included items examining views about CBH’s DEIA programming, personal DEIA workplace experiences, and CBH’s inclusion of different groups. Results: Over time, respondents increasingly: viewed CBH as a model for diversity and inclusion in the workplace (programming); were satisfied with their access to diversity and inclusion training opportunities at work (programming); felt more comfortable discussing race, discrimination, and social justice at work (experiences); and reported increases in the inclusion of people of different gender identities and sexual orientations (inclusion). Respondents viewed declines in CBH’s inclusion of people with disabilities (inclusion). All other survey responses remained consistent from 2020 to 2023. Conclusions: DEIA efforts by CBH employees may promote a more inclusive and welcoming work environment. Ensuring the longevity of DEIA initiatives, adapting efforts based on employee feedback, and addressing unmet needs should continue to be areas of focus for CBH and other training institutions.
Non-Operative Management for Patients With Spinal Ankylosing Disorders Presenting With Extension Type (AOSpine B3) Fractures-Our Experience with a Cohort of 40 Patients
Authors: Barkay Gal , Fernandes Joel , Strong David , Suttor Sean , Hartin Nathan , Gray Randolph
Published: February 2025

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Background

Non-operative treatment for patients with spinal ankylosing disorders presenting with extension type fractures (AOSpine B3) has been disregarded due to reports of poor outcomes including secondary fracture displacement and unacceptably high mortality rates. Recent studies have questioned the prevailing recommendation for surgical management, advocating for reconsideration of non-operative treatment in appropriate cases. We aim to further identify patient and radiographic factors favoring successful non-operative management.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from Royal North Shore Hospital spine consult database. Patients with AOSpine B3 fractures treated non-operatively between 2021-2023 were included. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data were collected and assessed, including outcome analysis of specific fracture patterns.

Results

A total of 40 patients were treated non-operatively. 30 were deemed appropriate for non-operative management based on initial imaging assessment. Complications and 6-month mortality occurred in 13% of patients in this group. No patients failed non-operative management and good clinical and radiologic outcomes were observed in all patients on follow up. An additional 10 patients required surgery but were deemed medically unfit. Patients in this group were found to have a mortality rate of 80%.

Conclusions

Non-operative management appears feasible for selected patients with DISH and AOSpine B3 fractures of an osseous or osseous-discal pattern, without posterior vertebral wall/annulus involvement and an anterior opening of up to 6 mm. These findings suggest non-operative treatment with close clinical and radiological follow up for specific patients is a viable treatment method in this patient group.
Between the Is and the Ought: Abolition Democracy and Du Boisian Futures in Sociological Praxis
Authors: Alicea Julio Ángel , Blume Oeur Freeden
Published: February 2025

Across W. E. B. Du Bois’s long life, as in our current moment, conversations about race were contested in the general public as well as on university campuses. We are living in yet another “revolutionary situation,” to echo James Baldwin, who, in speaking to a group of educators in 1963 just weeks after Du Bois’s death, insisted that we be prepared to “go for broke.” In this essay, we offer a model for how sociology instructors can go for broke collectively. We take advantage of the fortuitous situation where we independently and concurrently have called attention to Du Bois as “the teacher denied” and “the educator derived,” and offer here an instructional compass that draws on, extends, and unites the various strengths of our published work. We want to use this new collaboration to challenge ourselves, and to build on recent calls by writers and organizers for an abolitionist imaginary that guides relations within a teaching community and informs pedagogical tactics both inside and beyond the university classroom. The instructional compass we offer is guided by the need for deeper theorizing of the historical present and past; reconfigures traditional horizontal relationships with an eye toward community building; considers the stratified nature of higher education and the need for new ways to support and invest in the work of historically Black institutions and non-elite institutions; and embraces an artistic and humanist ethic as a necessary counterweight to the typical (scientific) standardized curriculum.
Imagination Is Our Birthright: Nurturing a Black Feminist Radical Imagination in the Classroom
Authors: Brown Nicole M. , Schönfeldt-Aultman Scott M.
Published: February 2025

This article explores radical learning rituals deployed during an experimental intensive course targeting first-year students at a Hispanic Serving Institution. Using the Radical Imagination Laboratory (RIL) as a template, the course explores imagination through a Black Feminist lens, specifically engaging the works of Angela Davis, Sylvia Wynter, and Audre Lorde. The article chronicles the lessons and challenges of coteaching, creating and practicing innovative teaching methodologies, and race-conscious pedagogy, while grappling with differences in race and gender positionality among instructors and students. Each of the class activities highlighted here represents a foundational theorist for the course (in conjunction/conversation with contemporary theorists). While describing these examples of alternate ways of understanding and experiencing the classroom as a laboratory for time travel and world-making, the article also investigates both students’ resistance to and their embracing of the Black Feminist framing of imagination that is at the core of the class. The article concludes that attempts to nurture imagination through an explicit centering of Black Feminist ways of knowing and being serve to stretch and elevate students’ understanding of imagination’s relationship to the past and present and the collective responsibility, costs, and power of this birthright.
Historical Patterns and Trends in Teacher-Student Demographic Changes in the United States
Authors: Gopalan Maithreyi , Jung Jilli , Hanselman Paul
Published: February 2025

This visualization represents historical patterns and trends in racial/ethnic distributions of teachers and students over the past five decades in K–12 public schools in the United States. Specifically, the authors highlight the demographic mismatch between the school-age population and the teaching workforce that persists for all non-White groups. The rapidly diversifying, multiethnic school-age population highlighted by the 2020 census combined with the persistent, predominantly White teacher population continues to remain a concerning issue given the multifaceted benefits of student-teacher demographic match for students from minoritized backgrounds. Recruitment and retention of a diverse teaching workforce that mirrors the school-age population must remain a core education policy priority in the coming decades.
Quality Improvement in General Dental Practice: Situational Analysis for the United Kingdom and Germany
Authors: Lin C. , Fehrer V. , O’Malley L. , Thompson W. , Listl S. , Lorenz M. , Byrne M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Quality improvement (QI) is important in ensuring standards in oral health care. Despite the growing literature on quality indicators, audit, and feedback, the perceptions and expectations of oral health professionals toward QI remain unclear. Understanding these perspectives, barriers, and facilitators is important to effectively encourage and maintain QI activities in dental practices. This is the first of 6 publications in a series titled “Situational Analysis of QI in Oral Health Care in Europe.”

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate how QI was conducted and perceived in dental practices in the United Kingdom and Germany.

Methods:

A situational analysis, comprising desk research and semistructured interviews, was conducted. Data collection was conducted from May to October 2023. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used to recruit dental practice participants in the United Kingdom and Germany. Interviews and key texts were thematically analyzed to synthesize 3 maps: a situational map, a social world map, and a positional map.

Results:

Eighteen participants were interviewed, comprising dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental nurses, and practice managers. The participants described 6 competing positions surrounding QI: QI activities were expressed as being worthwhile or box-ticking exercises to satisfy regulators. Some felt that QI detracted from service delivery and should not be the role of the dentist, whereas others stressed the need for a whole-team approach. Some felt that patients were important to judge quality, whereas others felt quality in dentistry required understanding of technical processes beyond the reach of patients.

Conclusion:

This study provided insights into how QI activities were carried out in dental practices in the United Kingdom and Germany and how it is was perceived by those working in this environment. This study offers key observations into the situations, social worlds and arenas, and positions that influence QI in dental practices.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

The findings from this study highlight several contextual barriers and facilitators to quality improvement in general dental practice. Understanding these determinants of quality improvement is relevant for oral health teams and dental practice managers who aim to develop and implement quality improvement strategies in dental practice.
Dietary Factors and Dental Caries among Adolescents: Eight-Year Follow-up Study
Authors: Methuen M. , Kukkonen V.F. , Anttonen V. , Mikkonen S. , Väistö J. , Soininen S. , Närhi M. , Lakka T.A. , Suominen A.L. , Eloranta A.-M.
Published: February 2025

Objective:

The aim of this study was to conduct a longitudinal investigation of the associations between changes in dietary factors and changes in caries experience among Finnish children and adolescents participating in the Physical Activity and Nutrition in Children (PANIC) study.

Methods:

Among 487 children included at baseline at the age of 6 to 8 y, 406 were reexamined at 2-y follow-up and 202 at 8-y follow-up. Food consumption, nutrient intake, and eating frequency were assessed using 4-d food records; diet quality was assessed using the Baltic Sea Diet Score; and eating behavior was evaluated using the Children’s and Adult’s Eating Behaviour Questionnaires. At baseline and 2-y follow-up, caries findings were recorded using the World Health Organization guidelines and at 8-y follow-up using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System criteria. Generalized linear mixed-effects regression analyses were used.

Results:

Over 8 y from childhood to adolescence, improved diet quality (β = −0.017, P = 0.046) and increased consumption of butter and butter-oil mixtures (β = −0.009, P = 0.044) were associated with decreased caries experience. Increased number of snacks (β = 0.072, P = 0.032), increased consumption of sour milk products (β = 0.001, P = 0.039) and salty snacks (β = 0.006, P = 0.010), and increased calcium intake (β = 2.41 × 10−4, P = 0.022) were associated with increased caries experience. However, the latter association was explained by the consumption of sour milk products (β = 1.88 × 10−4, P = 0.090). Increased enjoyment of food was associated with decreased caries experience (β = −0.121, P = 0.046), and increased slowness in eating (β = 0.113, P = 0.051) and food fussiness (β = 0.140, P = 0.009) were associated with increased caries experience.

Conclusions:

A healthy diet is vital for oral health among children and adolescents. Dietary behaviors developing from childhood to adolescence seem to be associated with caries experience in adolescence. Dietary counseling aimed at improving dental health from childhood to adolescence should include avoiding frequent snacking, strengthening healthy eating behavior, and composing good overall diet quality.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Results of this longitudinal study showed how crucial a healthy diet is for oral health among growing children. Eating behaviors and enjoyment of food play also a role in maintaining good oral health. Research results can be used when planning dietary recommendations and health education for children and adolescents.
How Synthesis Tasks Are Affected by Probability Format: A Making Numbers Meaningful Systematic Review
Authors: Benda Natalie C. , Sharma Mohit M. , Ancker Jessica S. , Demetres Michelle , Delgado Diana , Johnson Stephen B. , Zikmund-Fisher Brian J.
Published: February 2025

Background. To develop guidance on the effect of data presentation format on communication of health probabilities, the Making Numbers Meaningful project undertook a systematic review. Purpose. This article, one in a series, covers evidence about a “synthesis task,” in which readers examine stimuli to synthesize information about multiple features of health options, such as chances of both harm and benefit for a treatment. This article presents evidence of the effect of format on perceptual, cognitive, affective, and behavioral outcomes. Data Sources. MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, ERIC, ACM Digital Library; hand search of 4 journals. Finding Selection. Manual pairwise screening to identify experimental and quasi-experimental research comparing 2 or more formats for presenting quantitative health information to lay audiences. This article reports on 91 findings derived from 45 unique studies reported in 42 articles. Data Extraction. Pairwise extraction of information on stimulus (data in a data presentation format), cognitive task, and perceptual, affective, cognitive, or behavioral outcomes. Data Synthesis. Evidence was found about 6 outcomes: identification/recall, contrast, effectiveness perceptions/feelings, behavioral intentions/behavior, trust, and preference. No strong evidence was found. Moderate evidence suggests that for synthesis tasks, behavioral intention is not affected by whether the risk and benefit probabilities are in text or in tables, that people prefer tables to text for presenting this information, and that effectiveness feelings are not affected by whether or not numbers are supplemented by narratives. Limitations. Granular data extraction and evidence syntheses lead to narrow evidence statements. Conclusions. Current evidence on synthesis tasks is moderate strength at best. Future studies should enrich the evidence on how to present information needed to synthesize multiple features of health options, given the importance of this task.

Highlights

This study found a moderate number of studies assessing strategies for evaluating sets of probabilities conveying information such as risks and benefits. Evidence is moderate that although presenting sets of probabilities in table versus sentences may not affect behavioral intentions, people may prefer tables. Contrary to previous studies about probability feelings, moderate evidence suggested that narratives may not affect effectiveness feelings. Evidence was insufficient to draw conclusions regarding contrast, identification, and trust outcomes, and no studies assessed recall, categorization, computation, or discrimination outcomes.