bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical issues of the use of peacekeeping operations in modern realities, including the military and police component: A case study of the UN and regional organizations
Authors: Akhmedov Nurzhan , Shalkarova Irina , Egorov Andrey , Egorov Igor
Published: October 2023

This study systematizes and analyzes the legal aspects of changes in the deployment of international peacekeeping forces over the past 50 years. The article deals with topical political and legal problems facing the peacekeeping activities of the United Nations (UN) and regional international organizations. These problems emanate from both natural institutional and artificially created factors. Overcoming the challenges ahead is possible only through the development of multilateral diplomacy, the aim of which is to achieve long-term and realizable agreements to resolve conflicts and establish lasting and sustainable peace. The study analyzes the role, effect, and potential of peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the UN and other regional international organizations to ensure international security as a timely response to legal and institutional challenges related to the interests of certain players in the world arena, where Russia and some countries in Europe and Asia have been affected.
Disinformation on digital media platforms: A market-shaping approach
Authors: Diaz Ruiz Carlos
Published: October 2023

The proliferation of deceptive content online has led to the recognition that some actors in the digital media ecosystem profit from disinformation’s rapid spread. The reason is that a market designed to monetize engagement with fringe audiences encourages actors to create content that can go viral, hence creating financial incentives to circulate controversial claims, adversarial narratives, and deceptive content. The theoretical claim of this piece is that the actors and practices of digital media platforms can be analyzed through their market practices. Through this lens, scholars can study whether digital markets such as programmatic advertising, commercial content moderation, and influencer marketing make money from circulating disinformation. To show how disinformation is an expected outcome, not breakage, of the current media market in digital platforms, the article analyzes the business models of pre-digital broadcasting media, partisan media, and digital media platforms, finding qualitatively different forms of disinformation in each media market iteration.
The (un)importance of ethnicity in adolescents’ boundary making: An analysis over a two-school year period in a super-diverse city
Authors: Kostet Imane , Verschraegen Gert , Clycq Noel
Published: October 2023

Drawing on three rounds of in-depth interviews with Antwerp pupils aged 11–14, we examine how adolescents’ moral boundary making shifts (or not) during the course of a two-school year period, as they talk about whom they like to hang out with (or not), the diversity in their surroundings and in their friendship groups, and the (un)importance of ethnicity in their peer relations. The results show that adolescents initially draw three subtypes of moral boundaries (based on being “good-rebellious”, “stingy-generous” or “decent-indecent”) to emphasize so-called differences between the majority and minority groups; these boundaries, however, reportedly do not structure their friendship groups and even become disconnected from ethnicity in the latter research rounds. Moral boundaries that are set not to distinguish between ethnic majority and minority groups, but against the children of recently arrived immigrants (“established-outsider” boundaries), however, are salient in all three research rounds and are reportedly not crossed in our respondents’ friendship group formation.
The experience of youth-participatory action research in a social innovation lab: A methodological and organizational approach
Authors: Canas Eugenia , Booth Richard , Pervez Romaisa , Cook Alec , Taylor-Gates Melissa , Oudshoorn Abe , Norman Ross , Hunt Renee , MacDougall Arlene G.
Published: October 2023

Based on the theory and quality criteria of Youth-Participatory Action Research (Y-PAR), youth and adult co-researchers at a social innovation lab in Ontario, Canada, have undertaken various knowledge generation and action activities for the purpose of supporting youth mental health and wellbeing among transitional-age youth (ages 16–25). We describe the methodological and organizational approach employed in this undertaking, including aspects of the social innovation model to support the action components of Y-PAR. We draw on Bradbury-Huang’s (2010) seven choice points for quality in action research to structure this collective reflection. Our experiences illustrate the tensions and opportunities arising from housing a Y-PAR project within a large health services institution. We also note how social innovation lab processes can support the emancipatory aims of participatory research. Implications for using Y-PAR in other areas are included.
How do the principals perceive the challenges of integration of immigrant students into Slovenian primary school educational space
Authors: Pucelj Maja , Gorenc Zoran Annmarie
Published: October 2023

Education is a fundamental human right and essential to enable people to maximize their abilities to settle in a new country, adapt to a new environment, and become participating community members. As part of the challenges posed by immigration, the society aims to provide at least primary education to the children of immigrants. Statistical data show that in recent years, the number of students from other countries has increased in Slovenia. Slovenian educational institutions are confronted with a larger number of immigrant and refugee children with different cultural and linguistic backgrounds than Slovenian children. In order to explore what the challenges are in integrating immigrant students into Slovenian primary schools, we will try to answer the main research question of what challenges principals face in integrating immigrant children into primary education. This will be researched through an empirical analysis methodologically based on semi-structured interviews with school principals in selected primary schools.
Artificial Intelligence–Assisted Sac Diameter Assessment for Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Wegner Moritz , Fontaine Vincent , Nana Petroula , Dieffenbach Bryan V. , Fabre Dominique , Haulon Stéphan
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

Artificial intelligence (AI) using an automated, deep learning–based method, Augmented Radiology for Vascular Aneurysm (ARVA), has been verified as a viable aide in aneurysm morphology assessment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of ARVA when analyzing preoperative and postoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) in patients managed with fenestrated endovascular repair (FEVAR) for complex aortic aneurysms (cAAs).

Materials and Methods:

Preoperative and postoperative CTAs from 50 patients (n=100 CTAs) who underwent FEVAR for cAAs were extracted from the picture archiving and communication system (PACS) of a single aortic center equipped with ARVA. All studies underwent automated AI aneurysm morphology assessment by ARVA. Appropriate identification of the outer wall of the aorta was verified by manual review of the AI-generated overlays for each patient. Maximum outer-wall aortic diameters were measured by 2 clinicians using multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) and curved planar reformatting (CPR), and among studies where the aortic wall was appropriately identified by ARVA, they were compared with ARVA automated measurements.

Results:

Identification of the outer wall of the aorta was accurate in 89% of CTA studies. Among these, diameter measurements by ARVA were comparable to clinician measurements by MPR or CPR, with a median absolute difference of 2.4 mm on the preoperative CTAs and 1.6 mm on the postoperative CTAs. Of note, no significant difference was detected between clinician measurements using MPR or CPR on preoperative and postoperative scans (range 0.5–0.9 mm).

Conclusion:

For patients with cAAs managed with FEVAR, ARVA provides accurate preoperative and postoperative assessment of aortic diameter in 89% of studies. This technology may provide an opportunity to automate cAA morphology assessment in most cases where time-intensive, manual clinician measurements are currently required.

Clinical Impact

In this retrospective analysis of preoperative and postoperative imaging from 50 patients managed with FEVAR, AI provided accurate aortic diameter measurements in 89% of the CTAs reviewed, despite the complexity of the aortic anatomies, and in post-operative CTAs despite metal artifact from stent grafts, markers and embolization materials. Outliers with imprecise automated aortic overlays were easily identified by scrolling through the axial AI-generated segmentation MPR cuts of the entire aorta.This study supports the notion that such emerging AI technologies can improve efficiency of routine clinician workflows while maintaining excellent measurement accuracy when analyzing complex aortic anatomies by CTA.
Health and Demographic Factors for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Among Hispanic Adults in the United States: Analysis of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data
Authors: Workman Brandon , Nabors Laura
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Appropriate diagnosis and regular primary care appointments are markers of quality chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care. Underdiagnosis of COPD has been associated with an absence of health insurance, lower socioeconomic status, and race and ethnicity. Methods: This study examined predictors of COPD using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS, 2021) to provide information for prevention messaging and interventions. Participants included Hispanic adults ( n = 17,782) aged 45 years and older. Chi-square tests and a multinomial logistic regression analysis (adjusted with the BRFSS weighting variable) were used to understand how sex, income, health status, smoking behaviors, asthma morbidity, and health insurance coverage were related to having COPD. Results: Patients with poor health, lower income level, current smokers, former smokers, or asthma were more likely to report COPD. Females were more likely to report COPD than males. Patients with COPD were more likely to be without health insurance when compared to those who did not have COPD, indicating unmet medical needs. Conclusion: Studies such as this one, aiming to evaluate the relationship between COPD prevalence and predictors of health and outcomes among Hispanic patients in the United States will remain important for developing health messaging to attenuate disease progression.
Clinical Study on the Thoracodorsal Artery Perforator Flap in Breast-Conserving Reconstruction of T2 Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Shuang-Qi , Zheng Zi-Fang , Li Hang , Zhang Jin-Fan , Zheng Yan , Lin Li-Sheng
Published: October 2023

Background

Breast-conserving surgery combined with oncoplastic breast surgery has become the standard surgical treatment for early breast cancer.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of the thoracodorsal artery perforator flap (TDAPF) in breast-conserving reconstruction of T2 breast cancer.

Methods

Thirty patients with T2 breast cancer admitted to our hospital from January 2019 to December 2020 were enrolled to receive pedicled TDAPF for repairing breast defects after breast-conserving surgery. Intraoperative conditions, postoperative complications, and shape satisfaction after breast reconstruction were recorded.

Results

The operation was successfully completed in all 30 patients, with an operation time of 177.77 ± 24.39 min, bleeding of 44.17 ± 7.67 mL, and length of hospital stay of 5.23 ± .97 d. There was no deformity or seroma at the donor site. Breast shape recovered well after operation. After operation, one patient had fat liquefaction in the recipient site, which healed well after wound treatment. The incidence of postoperative complications was 3.33%. Postoperative follow-up lasted 16-28 months, with a median of 22 months. The Breast-Q score for breast satisfaction was 61.83 ± 12.87 at 6 months after operation, compared to 62.07 ± 11.78 before operation ( P > .05).

Conclusions

TDAPF, featuring a high survival rate, moderate flap area, fewer postoperative complications, and high satisfaction with breast shape after operation. For east asian women with moderate breast size, TDAPF is a safe, effective choice for repairing defects in breast-conserving surgery for T2 breast cancer.
A realist review of interventions targeting maternal health in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Abraham Julie Mariam , Melendez-Torres GJ
Published: October 2023

Maternal mortality is disproportionately higher in low- and middle-income countries compared to other parts of the world. International research efforts are reflective of the urgency to improve global maternal outcomes. The existing literature of maternal health interventions in low- and middle-income countries targets a variety of populations and intervention types. However, there is a notable lack of systemic reviews that examine the wider contextual and mechanistic factors that have contributed to the outcomes produced by interventions. This article aims to use realist synthesis design to identify and examine the relationships between the contexts, mechanisms and outcomes of maternal health interventions conducted in low- and middle-income countries. This will inform evidence-based practice for future maternal health interventions. In May 2022, we searched four electronic databases for systematic reviews of maternal health interventions in low- and middle-income countries published in the last 5 years. We used open and axial coding of contexts, mechanisms and outcomes to develop an explanatory framework for intervention effectiveness. After eligibility screening and full-text analysis, 44 papers were included. The majority of effective interventions reported good healthcare system contexts, especially the importance of infrastructural capacity to implement and sustain the intervention. Most intervention designs used increasing knowledge and awareness at an individual and healthcare-provider level to produce intended outcomes. The majority of outcomes reported related to uptake of healthcare services by women. All mechanism themes had a relationship with this outcome. Health system infrastructure must be considered in interventions to ensure effective implementation and sustainability. Healthcare-seeking behaviours are embedded within social and cultural norms, environmental conditions, family influences and provider attitudes. Therefore, effective engagement with communities and families is important to create new norms surrounding pregnancy and delivery. Future research should explore community mobilization and involvement to enable tailored interventions with optimal contextual fit.
Maternal health and maternal health service utilization among female sex workers: A scoping review
Authors: Moore Brandi E , Govaerts Lauren , Kapadia Farzana
Published: October 2023

Background:

High proportions of female sex workers (FSWs) become pregnant and have children. Many FSWs are at increased risk of maternal health complications due to factors such as poverty, violence, and healthcare barriers. Despite this, FSWs’ maternal health and use of maternal health services (MHS) receive limited attention.

Objectives:

The objectives of this scoping review are to (1) synthesize existing data on FSWs’ maternal health and MHS utilization and (2) assess the state of peer-reviewed literature on FSWs’ maternal health in regard to methodological approaches and reported outcomes.

Eligibility criteria:

Included articles were peer-reviewed, published in English, and reported empirical data on FSWs for outcomes related to antenatal care, pregnancy, and labor complications, postnatal and delivery care, and/or barriers to MHS.

Sources of evidence:

Article searches were conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Global Health, Sociological Abstracts, Sociological Index, PsychInfo, and CINAHL

Charting methods:

Information extracted from eligible articles included publication year, study design, location, sample size, outcome measures, and findings. The “Three Delays” model was used to synthesize findings on barriers to MHS as relevant to phase I, II, or III delays.

Results:

Eighteen publications met the eligibility criteria. Studies were conducted in 11 countries and primarily reported quantitative data from cross-sectional surveys. The most frequently reported outcome was antenatal care utilization (n = 14), whereas few studies reported findings related to postnatal care and breastfeeding counseling (n = 2). Across publications, there was a substantial range in the proportion of FSWs who reported accessing different types of MHS.

Conclusion:

Literature on FSWs’ maternal health is limited and heterogenous. More research is needed that specifically focuses on measuring outcomes related to FSWs’ maternal health and examines associated factors. Such work can inform future research directions and public health interventions for FSWs—a population of marginalized women whose maternal health has been overlooked in existing efforts.
Prevalence and sociodemographic correlates of urinary incontinence in Japanese women: A web-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Onishi Aki , Shibata Ai
Published: October 2023

Background:

Epidemiological studies on urinary incontinence that used a validated international standard questionnaire are limited in Japan, and few studies have examined the sociodemographic and behavioral correlates of urinary incontinence.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of urinary incontinence according to the Japanese version of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, and its sociodemographic and behavioral correlates among Japanese women.

Design:

A web-based cross-sectional study.

Methods:

A randomly sampled cross-sectional Internet survey was conducted in Japan among 3030 women aged 20–64 years. The International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form score, sociodemographic, body mass index, medical and childbirth history, practice of pelvic floor muscle training, and medical care use were obtained. Descriptive statistics, the chi-square test, and forced-entry logistic regression analysis were used in data analysis.

Results:

Participants’ average age was 43.4 years, and the response rate was 32.9%. The prevalence of urinary incontinence was 25.5%, and it increased with age. Stress urinary incontinence was the most common subtype (57.4%), followed by urge urinary incontinence (20.3%) and mixed urinary incontinence (16.7%). Less than 5% of those with urinary incontinence had experience with pelvic floor muscle training and medical care use. Middle-aged and older (p < 0.001), overweight and obesity (p < 0.001), vaginal delivery status (p < 0.001), low back pain (p = 0.008), and previous pelvic floor muscle training engagement (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with urinary incontinence.

Conclusion:

Increasing population awareness of urinary incontinence from an early age and developing effective interventions for the identified at-risk groups, such as the middle-aged and older, those with overweight and obesity, and those with previous pregnancies, are urgently needed.
A culture of constraints: How head coach turnovers affect the backroom staff and player development in professional football
Authors: Galdino Matheus , Wicker Pamela
Published: October 2023

In professional football, head coach turnovers are arbitrarily perceived as a shortcut solution to convert losing streaks into winning results within time-limited competitive seasons. Despite a speculative mentality guiding turnover decisions, a new coach is invariably appointed with the expectation of improving performance. As often overlooked, however, coaching replacements inevitably create unintended club-wide spillover effects. This study addresses two related club-wide research questions: (1) How do head coach turnovers affect player development at the team level?; and, (2) What are the spillover effects for backroom staff? Undertaken in Brazil, where turnover rates exceed those in Europe, 30 backroom staff practitioners (i.e., assistant coaches, goalkeeping coaches, fitness coaches, physical therapists, physiologists, and a medical doctor) completed semistructured interviews focused on their experiences. A reflexive thematic analysis revealed an overarching culture of constraints driven by conflicting behaviors and working practices. Three themes were highlighted at the team level: pragmatic playing style, methodological mismatch, and delaying team cohesion. At the individual level, four themes were identified: internal disruption, repetitive adaptations, job insecurity, as well as mental and emotional unrest. The findings indicate how within-season coaching turnovers represent a hazard that unintentionally constrains the mutual collaboration among the stakeholders directly involved with player development.
Effects of warm-up duration on acute physical performance in highly trained male futsal players
Authors: Silva Nuno , Travassos Bruno , Gonçalves Bruno , Brito João , Nakamura Fábio , Abade Eduardo
Published: October 2023

Warm-up is a traditional pre-match routine that aims to enhance players’ readiness to subsequent activity. Manipulating the warm-up structure may be important to enhance acute performance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different warm-up durations on futsal players’ physical performance. Twelve highly trained male futsal players participated in this study during the in-season. All players performed three different warm-up protocols on consecutive days that differed on its total duration: normal (28-minute), short (15-minute) and very short (10-minute). All protocols included the same exercises, performed in the same sequence and with equal time percentage. Testing included 5 and 10 m linear sprint, 505 change of direction, countermovement jump (CMJ) and reactive strength index (RSI) and was performed in three different moments: pre warm-up, post warm-up and post10’ warm-up. CMJ and RSI improved in all protocols at post warm-up, with greater effects observed after very short protocol. However, no effects were observed at post10’ for vertical jump after all protocols. Sprint was improved in post warm-up after short and very short warm-up. Normal warm-up promoted positive effects in sprint at post10’. None of the protocols promoted positive effects in COD at post10’. Very short warm-ups appear to positively influence jumping and running performances, although these effects may be attenuated over time. Normal warm-ups could be valid for maintaining readiness during longer inactive periods that may characterize pre-match routines. Also, different responses may emerge from the same warm-up structure, which reinforces the need of adjusting warm-up according to players’ individual profiles.
Multi-sports training in English soccer academies: A survey exploring practices, practitioner perspectives, and barriers to use
Authors: Taylor Jonathan M , Quigley Charlie , Madden Jonathan , Wright Matthew D
Published: October 2023

Despite interest in multi-sports training as a strategy to enhance long-term player development in soccer, current practice within English professional soccer academies is not well understood. This study explored the use of multi-sports training by English professional soccer academies (i.e., if multi-sports training was used, how often, session duration, activity type and age-group variations), and practitioners’ perspectives with respect to player development (i.e., perceived physical/sociological benefits of; and barriers to use) using an online survey. One practitioner per club, per age category (i.e., Foundation (<9 to <12 years), Youth (<13 to <16 years) and Professional (<18 to <23 years)) was permitted to respond. Sixty practitioners responded, of which, 48% worked with U18-U23 players; 42% with U13–14 and U15–16 players, respectively; 20% with U9–10 players and 33% with U11–12 players. Half ( n = 30) of the respondents used multi-sports training for a total of 1 (IQR 1–2) session and 30 (13 to 60) minutes per week. Respondents ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that multi-sports training improved physical outcomes, reduced injury risk, helped to avoid early professionalism, and improved communication and problem-solving. Several barriers to inclusion were identified, such as limited training time, lack of equipment and attrition from other staff and players. In summary, although multi-sports training was used by only ∼50% of practitioners, indicating that many clubs specialise in deliberate soccer practice, most practitioners perceived multi-sports training to be beneficial to player development.
Postpartum diagnosis and management of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Tobin Micaela J , Wilkie Gianna L , Folch Alejandro , Cabral Margaret M , Meyer Theo E , Kovell Lara C
Published: October 2023

A 38-year-old female who was found to have severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) secondary to HIV in the postpartum period. This case illustrates the treatment and challenges of postpartum PAH. It also demonstrates the need for expert guidance and additional research on the optimal management of PAH in pregnancy and postpartum.
Beyond the Eurocentrism of immigration ethics: Tanzania and pan-African Ujamaa
Authors: Bulley Dan
Published: October 2023

Immigration ethics debates remain deeply Eurocentric in their assumptions and focus. Due to the dominance of a universalising, liberal perspective, the thought and experience of the global south continues to be excluded, except as ‘senders’ or ‘transiters’ of people. Not only does the debate thereby misrepresent the majority of the world, it also necessarily excludes that majority from having anything useful to say about ethical approaches to immigration. In this way, it offers a partial, parochial, local theory that mischaracterises itself as international and universal. By making common cause with decolonising approaches from Latin America, this article seeks to challenge this Eurocentrism by drawing on an example of African immigration ethics: postcolonial Tanzania’s ‘open door’ era. Here, the combination of the OAU’s expanded definition of a refugee, alongside the ‘traditional’ indigenous values of Julius Nyerere’s pan-Africanism and native socialism ( ujamaa), made for a generous, if highly restricted welcome for hundreds of thousands of people. This reveals the need for immigration ethics to dispense with the search for ‘universal’ norms that are limiting and exclusionary. Instead, it should explore pluriversality: the importance of local, creative, relational responses to mobile populations that are ongoing in the global south.
Effectiveness of occupational therapy-led computer-aided interventions on function among adults with conditions of the hand, wrist, and forearm: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Sheerin Margo , Morrissey Ann-Marie , Galvin Rose , Ryan Damien , Carey Leonora , Robinson Katie
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Upper extremity injuries are common, and often treated by occupational therapists. The need to evaluate the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions to guide practice is pertinent. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigate the effectiveness of occupational therapy-led computer-aided interventions among adults with conditions of the hand, wrist, and forearm.

Methods

A systematic literature search of five databases was undertaken for randomized studies examining occupational therapy-led computer-aided interventions for the treatment of hand, wrist, and forearm conditions. The primary outcome was function, with secondary outcomes of pain, grip and pinch strength. The quality of the included studies was independently assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias V2 tool. Meta-analyses were completed.

Results

Three randomized controlled trials were included with 176 participants. One study reported on app use on a tablet and two studies reported on computer gaming. Participants had a variety of hand and wrist diagnoses, treated both conservatively and operatively. There is limited evidence demonstrating that computer-based interventions are as effective as other occupational therapy-led interventions in improving function, pain, grip and pinch strength post-intervention, including small effect size following meta-analysis: grip strength (Fixed Effects Model, SMD 0.13, 95% CI 2.63; –2.36, I2 = 0%) and pinch strength (Fixed Effects Model, SMD –0.12, 95% CI 1.25; -1.50, I2 = 11%).

Conclusions

Limited evidence was found to support the use of computer-aided interventions for adults with a hand, wrist or forearm injury. Further high-quality research is recommended inclusive of a broader range of technologies and a broader range of clinical and patient-reported outcome measures.
Telepsychiatry readiness assessment at the Department of Psychiatry, Dr. Soeharto Heerdjan Hospital, Indonesia
Authors: Muzdalifah Ifah , Markam Hosizah
Published: October 2023

Background: The Dr. Soeharto Heerdjan Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia, has deployed telepsychiatry since May 2022 to ensure continuity of care for its psychiatric patients. This model of service has not functioned optimally, owing to obstacles, including the absence of a registration officer, no designated consultation room, scheduling issues and challenges for patients or their representatives in using the telepsychiatry application. Objective: This study aimed to assess telepsychiatry readiness at Dr. Soeharto Heerdjan Hospital. Method: An observational survey was conducted in April–May 2022, with a sample of 40 members of the telepsychiatry workforce, using the Telehealth Readiness Assessment (TRA) tool. Five key domains of the TRA tool are associated with the successful implementation of telehealth, including core readiness, financial considerations, operations, staff engagement and patient readiness. This tool includes a questionnaire, scoring sheet, supporting guidance and additional resources. The overall readiness score is a weighted average of the concept scores included within each of the five domains. Results: Of 40 respondents, 72.5% were females and 42.5% were between 31 and 40 years. From the total of five domains of telepsychiatry readiness, the level of telepsychiatry readiness at Dr. Soeharto Heerdjan Hospital was 70.05% or a moderate level. Conclusion: Aspects of readiness that need to be improved include providing a workforce for telepsychiatry patient registration; drug delivery; scheduling; designated consultation rooms; user-friendly telepsychiatry applications and electronic media for information on telepsychiatry services.
Carotid web arising in the common carotid artery and adjacent to a transverse process of the cervical spine: A case report
Authors: Naito Gomi Masanori , Iwasaki Koichi , Sasaki Isao
Published: October 2023

Background and importance

A carotid web (CaW) is an intraluminal membrane-like filling defect typically located in the posterior wall of the proximal internal carotid artery and is increasingly recognized as a potential cause of embolic stroke. We herein reported a case of a CaW that has an unusual location at the CCA; furthermore, an elongated transverse process of the cervical spine was adjacent to the CaW at the CCA.

Clinical presentation

An 87-year-old woman with a history of minor stroke underwent thorough radiological examinations of her CCA lesion. Radiological examinations, including duplex ultrasonography, digital subtraction angiography (DSA), computed tomography, and magnetic resonance angiography, revealed that the morphological characteristics of the lesion were compatible with those of a typical CaW except for its location at the CCA. Furthermore, three-dimensional DSA revealed that the lesion was adjacent to the transverse process of the sixth cervical spine (C6), suggesting mechanical damage by the spinal transverse process as a possible pathogenesis of this CaW.

Conclusion

This is the rare case of a CaW located in the CCA, far from the carotid bulb. Arterial dissection due to mechanical damage by the spinal transverse process may be a possible causative mechanism of the CaW in the present case.
Bytedance’s global rise: An exemplar of strategic adaptability and digital innovation in a global context
Authors: Perdana Arif , Bharathi S. Vijayakumar
Published: October 2023

In 2023, ByteDance, a prominent Chinese technology firm, rose to entrepreneurship prominence. It is the world's leading start-up, with a market capitalization of over $353 billion. This case study examines ByteDance’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to rapid ascent to global fame. The case discusses the strategic importance of its flagship products, TikTok and Toutiao. Many innovative technologies and pivotal offerings have placed ByteDance alongside significant players such as Google and Facebook. The case navigates through the numerous obstacles encountered by ByteDance, encompassing the intense competition in the global technology industry and the imminent uncertainties posed by a constantly evolving future. Our case reflects the company's unwavering commitment, forward-thinking vision, and innovative technologies. The case also analyses how ByteDance has maintained its competitive advantage through cutting-edge technologies and visionary innovations. It illustrates the company's commitment to excellence and innovation as essential to its success. ByteDance's narrative is a remarkable depiction of success despite adversity, demonstrating the company’s exceptional achievements.
Effect of curfew from the COVID-19 pandemic on amblyopia treatment in children in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bokhary Kholoud A , Hakami Khoulla A , El-Hiti Gamal A , Fahmy Rania M
Published: October 2023

Background:

Amblyopia was defined as a reduction in the best-corrected visual acuity in one or both eyes with the presence of amblyogenic factors.

Objective:

The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of curfews resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic on amblyopia treatment in children.

Design:

A prospective longitudinal study.

Methods:

The study was conducted in pediatric ophthalmology clinics at a tertiary hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Children aged 3–9 years who underwent amblyopia treatment from September 2020 to May 2021 were recruited. Visual acuity data were collected from the subjects’ record files for the first visits prior to the curfew and from the clinics for the second visits after the curfew had ended.

Results:

A total of 97 children with amblyopia (strabismic, anisometropic, mixed, and visual deprivation) were included. In all, 15 children did not attend the clinic for follow-up visits after the outbreak of COVID-19. The follow-up visits for most of the participants took place 4–5 months after the first visit. No significant difference in visual acuity in the amblyopic eye was found between the first and second visits ( p > 0.05). No significant correlation was noted between the baseline difference in visual acuity at the first and second visits and the duration of the amblyopia treatment between the two visits. The adjusted model shows a variation of 0.18% according to the duration between the two visits.

Conclusion:

The findings showed no significant difference in visual acuity in amblyopic eyes between the first and second visits (before and after the COVID-19 curfew), although visual acuity was clinically improved.
Paternal postnatal depression and associated factors: Community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Wedajo Lema Fikadu , Alemu Solomon Seyife , Tola Melese Adugna , Teferi Shelema Mengistu
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Paternal postnatal depression is a type of depression that occurs among male partners after childbirth. Although the problem has a multidimensional impact, there is limited data in low-income countries, including Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to uncover this problem in the study setting.

Objective:

To assess paternal postnatal depression and associated factors.

Method and study period:

A community-based cross-sectional study was employed from April 1 to 30, 2023, among 423 fathers in Mattu Town, Southwest Ethiopia. A face-to-face interviewer administered a structured questionnaire prepared by the Open Data Kit tool. The study participants were selected by simple random sampling techniques. A binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used. Both crude and adjusted odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were calculated, and a p-value of less than 0.05 was used.

Result:

Among 423 fathers, 412 participated, making the response rate 97.40%. The prevalence of paternal postnatal depression was 29.37% (95% confidence interval: 24.95%, 31.25). The poor wealth index (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.67; 95% confidence interval: 1.88, 3.14), loneliness (AOR: 1.81; 95% confidence interval: 1.20, 3.20), poor social support (AOR: 6.08; 95% confidence interval: 2.55, 14.48), feeling of family income stress (AOR: 3.22; 95% confidence interval: 1.89, 5.50), and history of adverse pregnancy outcome (AOR: 3.00; 95% confidence interval: 1.62, 0.59) were significant associated factors at p-value less than 0.05.

Conclusions:

The study identified nearly 3 in 10 fathers suffering from paternal postnatal depression. Therefore, the Ministry of Health and other concerned bodies should focus on this population group to alleviate it. In addition, health professionals and extension workers should provide evidence-based care plans based on the identified factors.
Continuity of care in primary healthcare settings among patients with chronic diseases in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Almalki Ziyad S , Alahmari Abdullah K , Alajlan Sarah AA , Alqahtani Abdulhadi , Alshehri Ahmed M , Alghamdi Saleh A , Alanezi Adel A , Alawaji Basil K , Alanazi Tareq A , Almutairi Rawan A , Aldosari Saad , Ahmed Nehad
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Maintaining continuity of care is one of the most critical components of providing great care in primary health care. This study aimed to explore continuity of care and its predictors in primary healthcare settings among patients with chronic diseases in Saudi Arabia.

Method:

Face-to-face cross-sectional interviews were conducted with patients with chronic diseases who had at least four visits to primary care facilities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between November 1, 2022 and March 3, 2023. We determined patients’ continuity of care levels using the Bice–Boxerman continuity of care index. A Tobit regression model was used to determine the effects of several factors on the continuity of care index.

Results:

The interviews were conducted with 193 respondents with chronic diseases of interest. The mean continuity of care index of the entire sample was 0.54. Those with asthma had the highest median continuity of care index at 0.75 (interquartile range, 0.62–0.75), whereas those diagnosed with thyroid disease had a much lower continuity of care index (0.47) (interquartile range, 0.3–0.62). Tobit regression model findings showed that employed respondents with poorer general health had a negative effect on continuity of care index levels. By contrast, a higher continuity of care index was significantly associated with elderly respondents, urban residents, and those diagnosed with dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, or asthma.

Conclusions:

According to our findings, the continuity of care level in Saudi Arabia’s primary healthcare setting is low. The data demonstrate how continuity of care varies among study group characteristics and that improving continuity of care among chronic disease patients in Saudi Arabia is multifaceted and challenging, necessitating a coordinated and integrated healthcare delivery approach.
Gender and the invisibility of care on Wikipedia
Authors: Ford Heather , Pietsch Tamson , Tall Kelly
Published: October 2023

Digital platforms produce bias and inequality that have a significant impact on peoples’ sense of self, agency and life chances. Wikipedia has largely evaded the criticism of other algorithmic systems like Google search and training databases like ImageNet, but Wikipedia is a critical source of representation in our current era – not only because it is one of the world's most popular websites, but because its data are being used as training data for the AI systems that are increasingly used for decision-making. We conducted an analysis of Wikipedia biographies in a national context, comparing the temporality and subjects of notability between English Wikipedia and the Australian Honours system in order to understand Wikipedia's unique role in the production of notability over the site's 20-year history. Framing Wikipedia as an active producer (rather than a reflection) of notability, we demonstrate that women are more likely to be awarded a Wikipedia page after the award announcements or not at all if their contribution is for labour relating to the caring professions than if their service is for sports, arts and films, politics or the judiciary. We argue that Wikipedia's inability to recognise gendered care work as noteworthy is mirrored in its own practices.
The effects of information framing on self-protective behavior: Evidence from the COVID-19 vaccine uptake
Authors: Zhang Wei , Mei Jie , Evans Richard , Wu Hong
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The Healthy China 2030 strategy outlines the government's plans for healthcare reform, emphasizing the need for increased awareness about infectious diseases to prevent and fight future infections. Information campaigns can be used as a medium to raise awareness and encourage citizens’ willingness to protect themselves against diseases, such as COVID-19. Extant studies have found that individual health behavior decision-making can be changed under different information frames. However, limited evidence is available about emerging infectious diseases. Based on the Prospect Theory and Theory of Planned Behavior, the impact of information frames on self-protective behavior—vaccination against COVID-19 is investigated in this study.

Methods

A 2(gain/loss frame)*2(factual/emotional frame) intergroup experimental design was designed to explore the effects of different information frames. 228 valid participants in China were recruited and the experiment was performed online.

Results

First, the gain frame was more effective in promoting public self-protection behavior than the loss frame under information frame intervention. Compared with the factual frame, the emotional frame is more effective in reducing individual risk perception. Second, perceptual behavior control has masking effects on self-protection behavior under the influence of the gain/loss frame. Third, age, subjective norms, attitudes, and the gain frame, have predictive effects on self-protection behavior.

Conclusions

This study provides empirical evidence on the impact of information framing interventions on public self-protection behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic and provides important practical implications for public administrators and media practitioners.
Willing and unwilling digital cyborg assemblages: University students talk about mental health apps
Authors: Van Der Poll Ryan , Coetzee Bronwyne , Bantjes Jason
Published: October 2023

Objective

Explore how students talk about mental health mobile applications (i.e., apps).

Methods

Data collected in focus group interviews with 51 students (all self-identifying as having mental health problems) and analysed using inductive thematic content analysis.

Results

Participants describe mental health apps as an anti-dote to the loss of control, vulnerability, helplessness, impotence, isolation, conspicuousness, and shame which characterise their experience of mental illness. They describe the on-campus clinic as inaccessible and associated with “serious” problems, while configuring psychologists and psychotherapy as out of reach, scarce, formal, structured and anxiety provoking. In contrast, they imagine mental health apps as informal, relaxed, inviting, and accessible. Participants expressed openness and optimism about using apps to improve their mental health. They idealise technology as a means to connect effortlessly, anonymously, and informally, as well as learn skills, assert agency, and act responsibly. They also articulate reluctance to trust technology, show cognisance of participating in a capitalist economy, demonstrate scepticism about the legitimacy of mental health apps, and call for regulation, thereby resisting the position of responsible neoliberal subjects.

Conclusion

Participants express ambivalence towards mental health apps without surrendering to either technophobia or technophilia. They express faith in technologies’ potential to support mental health while questioning the implicit assumption that people are competent to manage their own mental health. In talking about mental health apps students reproduce broader cultural discourses (including techno-optimism, techno-solutionism, somatopiamism, neo-liberalism, responsibilisationism, technoscepticism, and discourses about neuroplasticity and self-help) thus presenting themselves as both willing and unwilling digital cyborgs.
Barriers and Opportunities for Clinical Nutritionists in 13 Latin American Countries: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Carpio-Arias Tannia Valeria , Crovetto-Mattassi Mirta , Durán-Agüero Samuel , Parra-Soto Solange , Landaeta-Díaz Leslie , Cerezo de Ríos Sheila , Bejarano-Roncancio Jhon Jairo , Cordón-Arrivillaga Karla , Vitullo María , Perichart-Perera Otilia , Averos Nathaly Vanessa , Anahí Rodríguez Solange , Morales Gloria Maricela , Meza-Miranda Eliana Romina , Nava-González Edna J. , Miranda-Durán Melissa , Mauricio-Alza Saby , Ortiz-Fiorito Alfonsina , Núñez-Martínez Beatriz , Ivankovich-Guillén Sonia
Published: October 2023

A clinical nutritionist (CN) is a university-educated professional trained to perform preventive and recovery functions in the health of patients. The actions of these professionals, both worldwide and in Latin America, may face barriers and opportunities that require careful identification and examination. The main objective of this study is to identify the most important barriers and opportunities for the clinical nutritionist in 13 Latin American countries. A qualitative study was carried out; the initial phase involved conducting in-depth individual interviews with 89 informants, experienced CNs from 13 Latin American countries. After calculating the mean and standard deviation, we ranked the top 10 most frequently reported barriers by assigning a score ranging from 1 to 10. Additionally, 3 opportunities were identified with a lower score from 1 to 3. Means and standard deviation were calculated to sort the responses. Results: the most important barrier was the absence of public policies that regulate and/or monitor compliance with the staffing of CNs according to the number of hospital beds, while the most important opportunity was the advances in technology such as software, body analysis equipment and other tools used in Nutritional Care. The identified barriers can interfere with the professional performance of CNs and, moreover, make it difficult to monitor the good nutritional status of patients. It is recommended to consider the barriers identified in this study, as well as the opportunities, with a view to improving the quality of hospital services with an adequate supply of nutritionists.