bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Participation in Sports or Recreational Activities After Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation of the Talus
Authors: Fiske Joseph W. , Dalal Aliasgar H. , McCauley Julie C. , Bugbee William D.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Fresh osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation is a viable treatment option for osteochondral defects of the talus. However, sufficient data are not available on patients’ participation in sports or recreational activities after the procedure.

Purpose:

To assess whether patients undergoing OCA transplantation of the talus participated in sports or recreational activities postoperatively.

Study Design:

Case series; level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 36 ankles in 34 patients underwent OCA transplantation of the talus. At a mean follow-up of 9.2 years, information on participation in sports or recreational activities pre- and postoperatively was obtained, as well as postoperative pain, function, and satisfaction.

Results:

The mean age at the time of surgery was 36.1 years (range, 20.5-57.7 years), and 50% of patients were men. The mean graft size was 3.6 cm2 (range, 1-7.2 cm2) or 41.1% of the talar dome. Before the injury, 63.9% of patients (23/36 ankles) reported being highly competitive athletes or well trained and frequently sporting; 36.1% of patients (13/36 ankles) reported sometimes sporting or were nonsporting. Also, 66.7% of patients (24/36 ankles) were able to participate in sports or recreational activities after OCA transplantation and 50% (18/36 ankles) were still participating in sports or recreational activities at the latest follow-up. In a subset of well-trained or highly competitive athletes, 73.9% (17/23 ankles) were able to return to sports or recreational activities at any point after OCA transplantation, and 65.2% (15/23 ankles) were still participating at the latest follow-up. Further surgery occurred in 16.7% of patients (6/36 ankles). Graft survivorship was 94.3% at 5 years and 85.3% at 10 years. There was a significant improvement in the mean Olerud-Molander Ankle Scores, and the mean Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scores were high postoperatively. Moreover, 79.4% of patients (27/34 ankles) were either satisfied or extremely satisfied with the allograft surgery.

Conclusion:

Fresh OCA transplantation is a reasonable surgical option for osteochondral defects of the talus for young, active patients who have failed previous operative management or have massive defects.
Reduced Anxiety and Depression and Improved Mood in Older Adults Living in Care Homes After Participating in Chair Yoga
Authors: Frampton Keeley , Oppedijk Liz , Hadley Rebecca , Annett Lucy E.
Published: March 2024

Providing opportunities for older adults to engage in physical and mental activity is important to support healthy aging. The present preliminary study investigated the feasibility of accessible chair yoga for older adults in care homes. Chair yoga participants ( n = 17) were assessed before and after attending twice weekly chair yoga sessions for 8 weeks, while control participants ( n = 16) underwent the assessments only. Participant ages ranged from 80 to 101 years and included those living with mild to severe dementia. Anxiety and depression measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and negative affect measured by the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), improved in the chair yoga but not the control group. Balance confidence (Modified Falls Efficacy Scale) and Health-related Quality of Life (EQ-5D-3L) were unchanged. Chair yoga is a feasible activity for older care home residents, including those living with dementia, with the potential to improve mental well-being.
Measuring Student Engagement in Lessons Using an Experience Sampling Methodology: The Development and Validation of the Dynamic Engagement With Learning Questionnaire
Authors: De Weerdt Dries , Simons Mathea , Struyf Elke
Published: March 2024

Student engagement is a central construct in education research, as it is a strong predictor and/or mediator of both cognitive and non-cognitive student outcomes. However, there remain questions among researchers about how to properly measure student engagement during lessons. Our study contributes to this discussion by presenting the development and validation of a theoretically grounded questionnaire of students’ lesson engagement, which is based on an experience sampling methodology. To validate this questionnaire, we issued it to 410 fifth- and sixth-grade students (10–12 years old). The results of both an exploratory and multilevel confirmatory factor analysis approved construct validity of the measure. Adequate within-person variability across time points was also found, which makes the questionnaire suitable for capturing fluctuations over time. Furthermore, partial scalar measurement invariance for questionnaire administration across time points and between fifth- and sixth-grade students was found.
Enhancing Academic Achievement and Engagement Through Digital Game-Based Learning: An Empirical Study on Middle School Students
Authors: Amzalag Meital , Kadusi Dorin , Peretz Shimon
Published: March 2024

Abundant research has tried to understand how games can be designed and used effectively to improve the learning process and to examine the correlations between digital learning games and student motivation, engagement, and knowledge retention. The current study examined the correlation between learning through digital game-based learning (DGBL) and students’ achievements, their sense of involvement, and motivation for learning. Using a quantitative approach, data was drawn from questionnaires and exams in two subjects: literature and language. Participants were 320 male and female students aged 12–14 attending a single middle school participated in the study. The students were randomly divided into three groups, each group was given a unique teaching and learning method. Group 1 studied and practiced using the traditional method (a teacher who teaches in the classroom and worksheets for practice), Group 2 studied with the traditional method but practiced with a digital game and Group 3 learned and practiced using a digital game. The findings showed that the students’ attained significantly higher achievements in the group that was taught traditionally but practiced with a digital game. It was also found that when digital learning games are integrated into teaching and learning, the students’ motivation and involvement in the class increased.
Integrating Community Cultural Wealth Into Postsecondary Transition for Students With Disabilities Receiving English Learner Services
Authors: Romano Lindsay , Trainor Audrey , Sarkissian Gracy , Newman Lynn
Published: March 2024

Understanding how capital influences postsecondary transition for students receiving special education and English learner (EL) services can inform culturally sustaining planning practices and improve postsecondary outcomes. Recognizing how students and families utilize community cultural wealth capital in the transition process can support efforts to thwart deficit-based practices and replace them with asset-based approaches that expand upon students’ strengths. At the same time, examining the ways the dominant group maintains power through actions that perpetuate the status quo is important. In this article, we apply Bourdieu’s capital theory alongside Yosso’s community cultural wealth framework to better understand how capital informed the postsecondary transition experiences of 13 students receiving special education and EL services and their parents. Implications and recommendations for understanding and utilizing cultural capital and community cultural wealth in transition are explored.
Transatlantic LatinX studies, Iberian studies, and the Global South
Authors: Milian Claudia , Romera-Figueroa Elia
Published: March 2024

More than a special issue, this endeavor serves as a sourcebook and provocation amplifying embryonic but interlinked sites of inquiry: LatinXness in Spain and its vital conversation with US LatinX studies as well as Iberian studies. LatinXs share historical and cultural connections to the Spanish and American empires. The contemporary period marks a significant moment on both sides of the Atlantic, as Spain now houses Europe’s largest LatinX population and the shifting ground of LatinXness exceeds the United States as well as a North-South axis of analysis. With an eye toward being wide-ranging, bringing forward fresh insights, and offering a crucial reference for an expanding area of interest—transatlantic LatinX studies—this undertaking provides historical contexts, defining moments, conceptual parameters, and critical approaches that appraise how Spain’s sociocultural and intellectual climate has fully entered a LatinX epoch. The exploration faces a cluster of questions: What do current characterizations of Spanishness invigorate when it admits a long ignored—and inseparable—LatinX foundation? What constitutes Spanish national currency when animated by LatinX bodies and imaginations? What is Spain—and what is Europe—to LatinXness and the Global South? What kind of new Spain—and new Europe—emerge from LatinXness and Global Southness? Collected here are original arguments and contributions—academic articles, think pieces, critical conversations, poetry, and creative nonfiction—orienting us on central thematic concerns that include: new directions and perspectives in transatlantic LatinX studies; the idea of Europe and Europeanness from Spain’s southernmost archipelago, the Canary Islands; LatinX nonhuman origins at the Royal Botanical Garden in the Spanish capital; the history, uses, and dissemination of the Panchito/Panchita racial slur; Madrid’s twenty-first century LatinX Spanish language, migration, and culture; present-day brown drag performance and practices; Afro-Spanish-Colombian poetry and politics; rurality, depopulation, and LatinX repopulation in Aguaviva, Spain; diasporic bodies and expressions of identity through movement; and movement in translation, X equivalencies across bodies, geographies, and languages. The volume, as a whole, is an entry point into LatinX studies and Iberian studies marshaling ideas and thinking tools that may be veering toward a new field of study.
Does the strengthened monitoring policy for key polluting enterprises induce China's green innovation?
Authors: Wang Feng , Han Huadan , Zhao Jingfei
Published: March 2024

To put enterprises reduce pollutant emissions and help them achieve sustainable development, China develops some policies related to environmental information disclosure (EID). A typical example is the strengthened monitoring policy for key polluting enterprises (SMPKPE). Green innovation is one of the major means to reduce pollutant emissions. However, the impact of the SMPKPE on green innovation has yet to be studied. Using the sample of China's listed enterprises from 2009 to 2021 and the multiperiod difference-in-differences method, this article examines whether the SMPKPE affects enterprises’ green innovation. The results are shown as followed: (1) the SMPKPE significantly improves enterprises’ green innovation; (2) this improvement can be achieved by strengthening the supervisory roles of banks and investors; (3) the strengths of the policy for enterprises’ green innovation are depended on the degrees of the financial constraint faced by enterprises. Specifically, taking the financial constraint as a threshold variable, it is found that the SMPKPE significantly improves the green innovation of enterprises with high degrees of financial constraint, while the policy reduces the green innovation of enterprises with low degrees of financial constraint; (4) the SMPKPE improves the green innovation of state-owned enterprises but fails to influence the green innovation of nonstate-owned enterprises. On a theoretical level, the conclusions of this article help to deepen the understanding of EID policies. On a practical level, the successful experiences of China provide valuable practical implications for China and other developing countries that currently face dual economic and environmental pressure.
Natural and anthropogenic factors affecting intense slope processes in Eastern Europe during the Modern Period: Serteyka river valley, Russia
Authors: Piech Wiktor , Hrynowiecka Anna , Stachowicz-Rybka Renata , Cywa Katarzyna , Mroczkowska Agnieszka , Słowiński Michał , Okupny Daniel , Krąpiec Marek , Ginter Artur , Mazurkevich Andrey , Kittel Piotr
Published: March 2024

Detailed palaeogeographical studies of the accumulative fan in the Serteyka River valley in W Russia and underlying biogenic deposits were carried out. The base of a representative core of biogenic sediments in the distal zone is dated to 1291 BC, while its top to 1631 AD. In this paper, palynological, plant macrofossils, Chironomide and Cladocera, geochemical, geochronological and sedimentological analysis were performed. Four phases of biogenic deposition were distinguished by pollen and geochemical analyses. Two of them coincide with the climatic fluctuation during Medieval Climate Anomaly and Little Ice Age. During the formation of the fan, overbank deposits were accumulated also, indicating numerous and intense floods, which are in line with the trend observed for other sites in this region. The accumulative fan is formed by lower, middle and upper deluvia and agricultural diamicton in its top. All units have specific sedimentological and geochemical features as well as low admixture of plant macrofossils. The beginning of the formation of this relief form dates back to the second half of the 17th century AD, and the end of the accumulation falls on the second half of the 18th century AD. Our work suggests that natural conditions had an impact on the formation and development of studied accumulative fan, however, the decisive factor causing the intensification of the slope processes were related with deforestation resulted from strong human impact, which was marked in palynological and macrofossils analyses (e.g. increase in the contribution of plants macrofossils related to agriculture).
Reconnecting with the social-political and ecological-economic reality
Authors: Carter Claudia E.
Published: March 2024

This article critically reflects on the research portfolio by the ecological economist Clive Spash who has helped pinpoint specific and systemic blindspots in a political-economic system that prioritises myopic development trajectories divorced from ecological reality. Drawing on his published work and collaborations it seeks to make sense of the slow, or absent, progress in averting global warming and ecological destruction. Three strands of key concern and influence are identified and discussed with reference to their orientation and explicit expression regarding Ontology, Epistemology and Axiology. Some complementary points about indeterminacy and holism are presented to further strengthen the arguments for a transition towards a social-ecological economic system that puts values and principles back into focus. While Clive Spash's work has made a strong case within the economic community and appealing to ecology professionals, the value-myopia or value-vacuum has to be tackled across all disciplines, politics and society for a meaningful and urgently required transformation in decision making. Hence, the article finishes with some suggestions for the (higher) education system, and highlights the importance of simplicity and sufficiency, as well as strong sustainability-driven citizen and community action as necessary catalysts of change in this social-ecological transformation.
Financial expansion in Sweden (2000–2008): A hybrid “debt&export-led” growth model
Authors: Barredo Juan , Buendía Luis
Published: March 2024

In the literature on financialized growth, two models are often presented as complementary but opposing: some countries drive their domestic demand through debt, while others grow on the basis of exports. In this research, we identify Sweden as a country that in the midst of the financial euphoria preceding 2008 combined these two models simultaneously. By identifying this “debt&export-led” growth model, we add richness and taxonomic complexity to the literature on financialized growth models. That said, this research contributes especially to the debate on the Swedish growth model, revealing a “hybrid” model that resulted from the interaction of two sets of factors: i) the presence of a successful exports sector, driven by a commensurate regulatory framework in a context of strong international demand; and ii) the manner in which financialization operated in Sweden, through a historic increase in private debt levels simultaneous with a partial dismantling of the welfare state.
Young adults’ career goal management: The mediating role of perceived employability and career adaptability
Authors: Chiesa Rita , Antonio Audrey Ansay , Guglielmi Dina , Mariani Marco Giovanni , Mazzetti Greta
Published: March 2024

The present study examined the career goal management strategies of Italian young adults. Based on the dual-process framework of goal management, assimilation and accommodation, which are considered adaptive personal resources, were hypothesized to be associated with young adults’ career goal engagement and career goal disengagement. Perceived employability and career adaptability were also hypothesized to play a mediating role in these associations. A two-time study was carried out among Italian university students ( N = 294). The results confirmed that assimilation was positively associated with career goal engagement and perceived employability mediated this relationship. Additionally, assimilation was found to be negatively associated with career goal disengagement, whereas accommodation was positively associated with career goal disengagement. These findings have implications in career counseling and university programs related to young adults’ university-to-work transitions.
Work from home effects on working mothers in a patriarchal society during pandemic times: A study from India
Authors: Lathabhavan Remya
Published: March 2024

The study examines the effects of work-from-home (WFH) on working mothers in India, characterized by a patriarchal mindset, during the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey involving 560 mothers from various sectors, all utilizing WFH due to pandemic measures, was conducted. A moderated mediated model was analyzed in the quantitative study using structural equation modeling. The results showed the absence of domestic help and family work guilt affected the job satisfaction of working mothers. The results showed that the overall dual-stage moderated mediation index from home demands (HDs) to job satisfaction via family–work conflict was significant. In addition, the first stage (HDs × absence of domestic help family–work conflict) and second stage (family–work conflict × family–work guilt job satisfaction) moderations were significant. This article also outlines the limitations of the current work and presents future scope for research.
The Javanese Cultural Beliefs and Practices Among Patients With End-Stage Renal Disease Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Suarilah Ira , Widyawati Ika Yuni , Umam Khotibul , Lin Chiu-Chu , Purwanti Rini , Supriyono Supriyono , Mundt Klaus
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Poor prognosis and higher mortality of chronic kidney disease are linked with cultural beliefs and practices. This study explored cultural beliefs and practices of Javanese people with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis for ≥5 years. Methods: A qualitative narrative inquiry was applied in this study. Data were collected through in-depth narrative interviews, followed by text messages, calls, and audio-visual calls for 6 weeks. Results: There were 14 participants; their mean age was 51.15 years and hemodialysis duration was 5 years and 2 months up to 10 years and 9 months. Four themes emerged: life-and-death acceptance, expectation of end-of-life care, contemplation of withdrawal from hemodialysis, and wishing for a good death. Discussion: Life values guided the ability to survive for the individual. Adherence to renal disease management regimen clashed with cultural values on occasions, such as social gatherings. Therefore, the unmet needs of patients should be addressed with a transcultural approach to modify personal health behaviors.
Surviving in Temporary Aircrew Workplaces: Coping With Intermittent Abusive Supervision in Dynamic Supervisor–Subordinate Relationships
Authors: QIN Zichan , YAN Libo , LEE Timothy J.
Published: March 2024

This study explores how victims of intermittent abusive supervision cope in the context of temporary professional teams where supervisor–subordinate relationships are transient and constantly shifting. Employing critical incident interviews with 23 non-management aircrew and using thematic data analysis, this study revealed that transient leader–member exchanges make supervisory abusive behaviors less enduring and more predictable. This provides opportunities to mitigate/eliminate workplace stressors through prevention strategies, including ingratiation, localization, withdrawing shifts, and seeking instrumental support. The study identifies victim coping tactics with different foci in three phases: pre-occurrence, proceeding, and post-occurrence. Our research extends Lazarus and Folkman’s theory of stress, appraisal, and coping, developing a theoretical framework for victims’ appraisal and coping mechanisms of abusive supervision in temporary working contexts. It offers evidence-based recommendations for HR practitioners to formulate policies addressing the detrimental effects of abusive supervision. This is particularly significant in industries like aviation or other ad-hoc sectors employing flexible membership.
Taking back and giving back on TikTok: Algorithmic mutual aid in the platform economy
Authors: Maris Elena , Caplan Robyn , Thach Hibby
Published: March 2024

This article explores three genres of TikTok content in which creators and users collaborate to re(direct) the value they create on-platform toward specific needs, people, and causes. Drawing from literatures on platform economies, user and creator labor, algorithmic imaginaries and resistance, and mutual aid, we used algorithmic ethnography to identify and define major genres of content, eventually creating a sample of 192 TikTok videos (including comments and metadata) and conducting a thematic analysis. The videos and practices shared the following themes: realizations of on-platform value, tactics oriented against platform logics and monetization programs, shared theories of value, and digital collaboration for a cause. We argue the genres constitute forms of algorithmic mutual aid, a practice unfolding in platform economies that demonstrates people’s increased recognition of the value of their digital labor, and efforts to reorient platform logics of value, visibility, and compensation to care for one another.
Advanced deep learning framework for underwater object detection with multibeam forward-looking sonar
Authors: Ge Liangfu , Singh Premjeet , Sadhu Ayan
Published: March 2024

Underwater object detection (UOD) is an essential activity in maintaining and monitoring underwater infrastructure, playing an important role in their efficient and low-risk asset management. In underwater environments, sonar, recognized for overcoming the limitations of optical imaging in low-light and turbid conditions, has increasingly gained popularity for UOD. However, due to the low resolution and limited foreground-background contrast in sonar images, existing sonar-based object detection algorithms still face challenges regarding precision and transferability. To solve these challenges, this article proposes an advanced deep learning framework for UOD that uses the data from multibeam forward-looking sonar. The framework is adapted from the network architecture of YOLOv7, one of the state-of-the-art vision-based object detection algorithms, by incorporating unique optimizations in three key aspects: data preprocessing, feature fusion, and loss functions. These improvements are extensively tested on a dedicated public dataset, showing superior object classification performance compared to the selected existing sonar-based methods. Through experiments conducted on an underwater remotely operated vehicle, the proposed framework validates significant enhancements in target classification, localization, and transfer learning capabilities. Since the engineering structures have similar geometric shapes to the objects tested in this study, the proposed framework presents potential applicability to underwater structural inspection and monitoring, and autonomous asset management.
The art of playful mess: Co-choreographing the early years dance pedagogical practices
Authors: Colliander Tuire
Published: March 2024

This article presents explorations of co-choreographing the early years dance pedagogical settings through dialogical and intra-active approaches in the context of artistic research. It discusses how to choreograph the pedagogical settings in such a manner, that the distribution of the artistic agency would become more equal, and the complex relational aspects and diversities would have time and space to emerge. The significance and possible consequences of co-choreographing the dances as well as the pedagogical arrangements will be also examined, followed with practical examples of what might the materiality of the space suggest and how to respond to it. The paper presents the Storyboard Method as a drawing-based method created by children for co-creating and writing choreography. It proposes the Storyboard Method having potential to open possibilities for working together with all ages and different linguistic skills in a participant-driven and playful manner. The work also suggests that by deconstructing the adult-child dichotomy and re-distributing the authority of knowledge, for example, through drawing-based playful methods, we could enhance the respectful encounters and allow the messy and complex qualities of creativity to emerge and enrich the artistic work.
Research on online intelligent welding system based on resistance spot welding of aluminum galvanized steel
Authors: Chen Lei , Liu Jizhong
Published: March 2024

The article follows a resistance spot welding system, which integrates a six-axis industrial robot, power supply, pneumatic actuator, welder, cooler, trimmer, software control system, welding analyzer, force feedback sensor and welding fixture to realize monitoring of welding quality and real-time adjustment of welding parameters. Taking the resistance spot welding of 6 series aluminum alloy and DC06 galvanized steel as a study, four groups of electrode combinations, 16-6/16-6, 16-10/16-10, 16-7/16-10, and 16-5/16-16 (steel side/aluminum side), are selected for simulation and analysis, and the electrodes are optimized with the simulation results. By selecting the optimal electrode combination to carry out experiments and analyzing the influence of welding current and welding time on the joint performance, the average pulling shear force of the aluminum alloy steel resistance spot weld head is finally realized to exceed the average pulling shear force of the aluminum alloy aluminum resistance spot weld head, and the fracture is all started from the parent material of the alloy side to achieve the failure of the button, and ultimately a good welding effect is achieved.
Design and test of walk-type rice potted seedling transplanting machine
Authors: Zhou Maile , Wang Guibin , Zhang Yan , Yang Jiajia , Wei Zhaoxiang , Sun Hao , Yin Jianjun
Published: March 2024

At present, rice potted seedling transplanting machine is mostly suitable for high-speed, large seedlings and large plant distance rice transplanting. In order to adapt to the transplanting of different types of rice potted seedlings, this study carried out theoretical research and institutional design for transplanting rice potted seedlings suitable for small seedlings and small plant spacing. A 2R open-chain rice potted seedling transplanting mechanism with two non-circular gears meshing to achieve the ideal transplanting posture was developed, and an optimization software for potted seedling transplanting was developed by establishing the kinematic model of the transplanting mechanism, which simulated the motion trajectory and attitude of the transplanting arm during the transplanting process. Through the optimization of the optimization design software parameters, a set of parameters that meet the requirements of transplanting rice potted seedlings in the rear insert rice potted are obtained, a transplanting mechanism suitable for walking rice potted seedling transplanting machine is designed and developed, and the experiments of rice potted seedling picking, conveying and planting are completed. The success rate of the designed walk-type rice potted seedling transplanting mechanism on the bench was 96.7%, and the qualification rate of the whole machine transplanting test was 89.1%.
Long-term outcomes of reconstructive treatment for painful dislocations in patients with cerebral palsy
Authors: Koch Aleksander , Kasprzyk Maciej , Musielak Bartosz , Jóźwiak Marek
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

This report presents the long-term results of the hip joint reconstruction in patients with spastic hip disease through open reduction, proximal femur varus derotation osteotomy, and Dega transiliac osteotomy.

Methods:

We analyzed retrospectively patients diagnosed with a spastic form of bilateral cerebral palsy with painful hip subluxation or dislocation. All patients underwent the same surgical procedure. The minimum follow-up time was 15 years. The study group comprised 15 patients (22 hips), classified with the Gross Motor Function Classification System as levels IV and V. The hip joint range of motion and anteroposterior X-ray examination at the final follow-up visit were compared with pre-operative data. The pain level was evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the femoral head shape was assessed using the Rutz classification. The patients’ caregivers answered questions regarding pain during sitting, personal hygiene activities, and at rest. The caregivers’ satisfaction with the treatment was also assessed with the Caregiver Priorities and Child Health Index of Life with Disabilities questionnaire.

Results:

We observed a significant reduction of the hip joint pain and improvement in both radiological hip stability parameters and range of motion at the final follow-up visit. Based on the Rutz classification, one hip remained type B, while the other joints became type A. Reduced pain was reported in all three positions, with the most pronounced improvement during sitting and personal hygiene activities. Interestingly, patients with unilateral hip reconstruction were more prone to pain after reconstruction than those operated bilaterally.

Conclusion:

Primary reconstruction of the painful hip joint neurogenic dislocation results in a stable joint reduction, pain decrease, and improved quality of life in patients with cerebral palsy.

Level of evidence:

IV case series.
Between ontologies and practices: How to deal with democratic theory?
Authors: de Azevedo Daniel A.
Published: March 2024

Criticism about the role of ontologies in geographical research has gained strength in recent years, especially following the work of Clive Barnett. Bodden's intervention aims to contribute to this debate through the philosophy of language. In this commentary, I reflect on the relationship between theory and practice within democratic theory, and present some reflections for taking this debate forward.
Interventions to Optimize Spinal Cord Perfusion in Patients With Acute Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: An Updated Systematic Review
Authors: Evaniew Nathan , Davies Benjamin , Farahbakhsh Farzin , Fehlings Michael G. , Ganau Mario , Graves Daniel , Guest James D. , Korupolu Radha , Martin Allan R. , McKenna Stephen L. , Tetreault Lindsay A. , Vedantam Aditya , Brodt Erika D. , Skelly Andrea C. , Kwon Brian K.
Published: March 2024

Study design

Systematic review update.

Objectives

Interventions that aim to optimize spinal cord perfusion are thought to play an important role in minimizing secondary ischemic damage and improving outcomes in patients with acute traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCIs). However, exactly how to optimize spinal cord perfusion and enhance neurologic recovery remains controversial. We performed an update of a recent systematic review (Evaniew et al, J. Neurotrauma 2020) to evaluate the effects of Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) support or Spinal Cord Perfusion Pressure (SCPP) support on neurological recovery and rates of adverse events among patients with acute traumatic SCI.

Methods

We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and ClinicalTrials.gov for new published reports. Two reviewers independently screened articles, extracted data, and evaluated risk of bias. We implemented the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to rate confidence in the quality of the evidence.

Results

From 569 potentially relevant new citations since 2019, we identified 9 new studies for inclusion, which were combined with 19 studies from a prior review to give a total of 28 studies. According to low or very low quality evidence, the effect of MAP support on neurological recovery is uncertain, and increased SCPP may be associated with improved neurological recovery. Both approaches may involve risks for specific adverse events, but the importance of these adverse events to patients remains unclear. Very low quality evidence failed to yield reliable guidance about particular monitoring techniques, perfusion ranges, pharmacological agents, or durations of treatment.

Conclusions

This update provides an evidence base to support the development of a new clinical practice guideline for the hemodynamic management of patients with acute traumatic SCI. While avoidance of hypotension and maintenance of spinal cord perfusion are important principles in the management of an acute SCI, the literature does not provide high quality evidence in support of a particular protocol. Further prospective, controlled research studies with objective validated outcome assessments are required to examine interventions to optimize spinal cord perfusion in this setting.
Comparison of Time-Zero Primary Stability Between a Biodegradable Magnesium Bone Staple and Metal Bone Staples for Knee Ligament Fixation: A Biomechanical Study in a Porcine Model
Authors: Deichsel Adrian , Glasbrenner Johannes , Raschke Michael J. , Klimek Matthias , Peez Christian , Briese Thorben , Herbst Elmar , Kittl Christoph
Published: March 2024

Background:

Bone staples have been shown previously to be a viable modality for cortical tendon graft fixation in ligament knee surgery. However, soft tissue reactions have been reported, making implant removal necessary. Magnesium alloys are a promising material for biodegradable orthopaedic implants, with mechanical properties closely resembling those of human bone.

Purpose:

To compare the primary stability of a biodegradable bone staple prototype made from magnesium to bone staples made from metal in the cortical fixation of tendon grafts during knee surgery.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Primary stability of peripheral tendon graft fixation was assessed in a porcine model of medial collateral ligament reconstruction. Two commercially available metal bone staples (Richards fixation staple with spikes [Me1] and spiked ligament staple [Me2]) were compared with a magnesium bone staple prototype for soft tissue fixation. Primary stability was assessed using a uniaxial materials testing machine. Cyclic loading at 50 and 100 N was applied for 500 cycles each, followed by load-to-failure testing.

Results:

After 500 cycles at 50 N, elongation was 1.5 ± 0.5 mm in the Me1 group, 1.9 ± 0.5 mm in the Me2 group, and 1.8 ± 0.4 mm in the magnesium group. After 1000 cycles of loading (500 cycles at 50 N and 500 at 100 N), elongation was 3.6 ± 0.9 mm in the Me1 group, 3.5 ± 0.6 mm in the Me2 group, and 4.1 ± 1.0 mm in the magnesium group. No significant differences regarding elongation were found between the groups. Load to failure was 352 ± 115 N in the Me1 group, 373 ± 77 N in the Me2 group, and 449 ± 92 N in the magnesium group, with no significant difference between the groups.

Conclusion:

In this study, the magnesium bone staples provided appropriate time-zero biomechanical primary stability in comparison with metal bone staples and may therefore be a feasible alternative for cortical fixation of tendon grafts in knee surgery.

Clinical Relevance:

The biodegradability of magnesium bone staples would eliminate the need for later implant removal.
Differences in Retromalleolar Fibular Groove Morphology According to Level of Axial Computed Tomography Scans
Authors: Yokoe Takuji , Tajima Takuya , Ouchi Koki , Yamaguchi Nami , Morita Yudai , Chosa Etsuo
Published: March 2024

Background:

Studies have evaluated types of retromalleolar groove using axial magnetic resonance imaging at the level of 10 mm above the tip of the lateral malleolus. However, no evidence is available to support that this level is appropriate for evaluating retromalleolar groove morphology.

Purpose:

To assess the influence of the level of axial computed tomography (CT) scans on the assessment of retromalleolar groove morphology.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The study population included 122 patients (mean age, 27.9 ± 11.8 years; 69 males, 53 female) who underwent CT scans to evaluate foot or ankle pathologies between 2020 and 2023. The shape of the retromalleolar groove (concave, flat, convex, or irregular) at 3 levels of axial CT scans (8, 10, and 12 mm above the tip of the lateral malleolus) was assessed independently by 2 orthopaedic surgeons. The length from the tip of the lateral malleolus to the proximal tip of the fossa of the lateral malleolus was also measured on coronal CT scans.

Results:

The type of retromalleolar groove was significantly different according to the level of CT scans (8 vs 10 mm, P = .0001; 10 vs 12 mm, P = .0001; 8 vs 12 mm, P = .001). The type of retromalleolar groove was the same at all 3 levels in 31.1% of patients (38/122). The length from the tip of the lateral malleolus to the proximal tip of the fossa of the lateral malleolus was <10 mm in 17.2% of patients (21/122).

Conclusion:

The shape of the retromalleolar fibular groove was affected by the level at which the CT scan was obtained. Approximately 70% of the patients showed different types of retromalleolar grooves among the 3 CT scan levels.
Design Principles for Promoting Students’ Social Scientific Reasoning About Social Problems
Authors: Klijnstra Thomas , Stoel Gerhard L. , Ruijs Gerard J. F. , Savenije Geerte M. , van Boxtel Carla A. M.
Published: March 2024

Social scientific reasoning (SSR) is essential to social science education and to a democratic society as a whole. Students are challenged to analyze and reason about social problems such as social inequality, crime, and poverty. However, students experience difficulties with SSR. This study addresses the research question: Which design principles can guide teachers in designing lessons that promote social scientific reasoning? In this design-based research, four social science teachers employed a conceptualization of SSR and its levels together with three initial design principles to develop curriculum materials and activities. These design principles and curriculum materials were piloted in two secondary education classes (9th and 10th grades) and evaluated by four social science teachers, four social science teacher educators and 90 students. The study produced six design principles that can promote students’ SSR. In combination with the curriculum materials, those design principles can help develop teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge and guide the design of tasks and units that develop SSR.
Race, Ethnicity, and Other Patient and Clinical Encounter Characteristics Associated with Patient Experiences of Access to Care
Authors: Gotschall Jeromy W. , Fitzsimmons Robert , Shin Daniel B. , Takeshita Junko
Published: March 2024

The Press Ganey (PG) Outpatient Medical Practice Survey measures patients’ experiences of healthcare access in the U.S. We aimed to identify differences in experiences of access to care by patient race, ethnicity, and other sociodemographic characteristics, an important first step in informing health policy and ensuring equitable healthcare delivery. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of PG surveys for adult outpatient visits within the University of Pennsylvania Health System from 2014–2017, including 119,373 unique patients. Compared with White patients, Black (odds ratio [OR] 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.80–0.87), Asian (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.58–0.66), and other/unknown race patients (OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.72–0.94) were each less likely to report the maximum score for timely access to care. Patients of all minoritized groups, as well as those whose primary language was not English, reported lower scores in secondary access measures related to communication and respect, compared to White and primarily English-speaking patients, respectively. Efforts to improve the experience of access to care among racial and ethnic minoritized patients are imperative to achieve equity in healthcare delivery.
Effect of a Multifaceted Approach on Perceived Support Among Mothers of Preterm Infants: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Mohagheghi Parisa , Razavinia Fatemeh , Khosravi Ahmad , Mousavi Seyedeh Saeedeh
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Mothers of preterm infants need support to deal with the issues caused by the early birth of their infants.

Objective

The authors examined the impact of a multifaceted supportive approach on the mothers’ perceived support levels.

Methods

The present quasi-experimental study was performed on 143 mother–preterm infant pairs, in two neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) of referral and educational hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The base of developed interventions was known to support system patterns of mothers with preterm infants. Different supportive interventions (appraisal, instrumental, emotional, and informational) of mothers were implemented during three months. The Nurse Parent Support Tool was applied for assessing perceptions of perceived support by mothers. Routine care was provided for the control group. The results were analyzed by STATA software 13. Categorical variables were analyzed by chi-square test, t-test, and inverse probability treatment weights.

Results

Following adjustments of mean differences of outcomes between study groups (95% confidence interval), all support scores, such as instrumental support, −1.23 (95% CI −1.04 to −1.43), total support, −1.83 (95% CI −1.6 to −2.06), appraisal support, −2.01 (95% CI −1.73 to −2.29), emotional support, −1.87 (95% CI −2.15 to 1.6), and informational support, −2.12 (95% CI −1.82 to −2.43), were significantly higher in the interventional group than in the control group ( p < .001).

Conclusions

Support received by mothers of preterm infants determines maternal/neonatal health. Information sharing and effective ways to support are essential elements in the mother's ability to deal with the new, stressful situation. This multifaceted supportive approach considerably improved mothers’ perceived support.
Nigella sativa Embedded Co-axial Electrospun PVA–Collagen Composite Nanofibrous Membrane for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ali Ayub , Bhuiyan M. A. Rahman , Mohebbullah M. , Hossain M. Firoz , Alam Md. Rubel , Uddin Md. Nur , Islam Md. Ariful , Hossain M. Anower , Rahman Azizur , Limon Md. Golam Mortuza , Hossain Imam
Published: March 2024

Mitigating health issues utilizing medicinal plants is an ancient practice that has surged in recent times due to the advent of sophisticated technology. Plant extracts incorporated in electrospun nanofibers having biocompatibility and germicidal activity are, therefore, become a competitive choice for biomedical applications. In this study, a novel co-axial electrospun nanofibrous mat with enhanced antimicrobial performance was successfully developed using poly (vinyl alcohol) in the core and collagen– Nigella sativa in the sheath. The structural analysis of the developed nanofibrous mat through a scanning electron microscope revealed the formation of nanofibers with diameters varying from 205 to 250 nm randomly oriented in the membrane. The FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the existence of poly(vinyl alcohol), collagen, and nigella extract in the nanofibrous mat from their respective characteristic peaks. The bactericidal assay against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria through the agar diffusion method demonstrated an improved antibacterial performance with a higher zone of inhibition (17 and 37 mm) of the coaxial electrospun nanofibers with the increased amount of nigella extract. The moisture management profile indicated an adequate interaction between nanofibers and moisture/liquid, transferring the fluids through the membrane satisfactorily. The formation of such electrospun nanofibers will pave the way for selecting electrospinning techniques for appropriate designing and fabricating nanofibrous materials with enhanced functional properties for biomedical applications.
“It’s Not Something We Like to Think About Because It’s So Devastating”: Understanding Eastern Canadian Young Women’s Mental Health in Our Changing Climate
Authors: Stone Kathryn , Hamilton-Hinch Barbara , Aston Megan , Rainham Daniel , Spencer Rebecca
Published: March 2024

Women are disproportionately affected by climate change, yet even though mental health and climate change is an emerging field, little research focuses on their mental health. The purpose of this study was to explore young women’s perceptions of climate change, gender, and mental health. A feminist poststructural (FPS) approach guided this research. FPS and discourse analysis were used to explore nine participants’ perceptions of their mental health in relation to the changing climate, and how their experiences were personally, socially, and institutionally constructed. Findings highlight participant relationships to discourses surrounding hopelessness, anxiety, grief and frustration, intersectionality, stereotypes, and gender-based violence (GBV). Study findings supported by broader literature provide recommendations for the discipline of health promotion regarding gender appropriate climate mitigation and adaptation strategies that prioritize and recognize mental health. We urge health promotion to recognize and integrate the fact that climate change amplifies existing inequities into health and climate change policies whenever possible. Climate change and health policies should ensure women are safe and protected before climate driven weather events to prevent instances of GBV. We recommend that health promotion media specialists recognize the dangers and ineffectiveness of fear mongering and attempt to promote climate solutions as opposed to only stories of despair and ecological degradation.