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Introduction: Mental health (MH) conditions are among the most common chronic health conditions in the United States. Previous studies suggested decreased in life satisfaction post-COVID-19 in other populations outside the United States. This study explored the correlations between life satisfaction and MH among diverse community post-COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional, non-experimental, retrospective study. The primary outcome was the Satisfaction with Life Scale total score (SWLS_TS) and the characteristics of the cases from self-reported information. Statistical software SPSS was used for descriptive and inferential analyses. Results: About 218 cases were included for analysis. Many of the cases were Asian Americans (n = 185, 84.1%). The multiple linear regression model significantly predicted 5.2% of the variance in SWLS_TS. Three out of 6 predictors significantly contributed to the model (age β =.172, t = 2.42, P =.017, ethnicity β =.148, t = 2.07, P =.039, and no history of MH β =.248, t = 3.31, P =.001). Conclusion: A diverse population was examined post-COVID-19 pandemic, and the findings suggest a positive correlation with age, ethnicity, and no history of MH with SWLS_TS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sound symbolism is a non-arbitrary mapping between phonetic properties and meanings. The existence and nature of sound symbolism have long been the subject of empirical research. It is rarely recognized, however, that participants' intrinsic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, language knowledge), in addition to the commonly studied phonetic features, may also influence size ratings. Our study aims to empirically investigate the impact of participant-specific characteristics on size ratings: It also aims to examine whether these characteristics have a direct impact when considering the impact of phonetic features or they rather modify the effects of phonetic features. The current research reports a novel analysis of a previously published dataset with new research questions and previously unused (participant-specific) data. We show that (a) the participants' characteristics did not affect overall size ratings; however, (b) in some cases, they modify (intensify or weaken but do not reverse) the effect of phonetic features on size ratings. Our results emphasize a more comprehensive treatment of sound symbolism, one that considers not only phonetic but also non-phonetic factors in sound symbolism research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Listeners adjust their perception to match that of presented speech through shifting and relaxation of categorical boundaries. This allows for processing of speech variation, but may be detrimental to processing efficiency. Bilingual children are exposed to many types of speech in their linguistic environment, including native and non-native speech. This study examined how first language (L1) Spanish/second language (L2) English bilingual children shifted and relaxed phoneme categorization along the cue of voice onset time (VOT) during English speech processing after three types of language exposure: native English exposure, native Spanish exposure, and Spanish-accented English exposure. After exposure to Spanish-accented English speech, bilingual children shifted categorical boundaries in the direction of native English speech boundaries. After exposure to native Spanish speech, children shifted to a smaller extent in the same direction and relaxed boundaries leading to weaker differentiation between categories. These results suggest that prior exposure can affect processing of a second language in bilingual children, but different mechanisms are used when adapting to different types of speech variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dependency is defined as a person's inability to meet basic human needs. In the context of aging, biopsychosocial changes compromise functionality, predisposing older adults to rely on others to perform daily activities. Fear of dependency describes the fear people have of appearing and/or being weak and/or reliant on others. The Fear of Dependency Scale (FDS), developed by Adams-Price and Ralston in 2016, aims to assess the fear of dependency by measuring an individual's attitudes toward being helped. Objective: This study presents a European Portuguese version of the FDS and examines its psychometric properties (internal consistency reliability and content validity). Methods: The translation and both cultural and linguistic adaptation of the FDS were performed by a panel of experts. A cross-sectional study was then performed to evaluate the psychometric properties (in terms of its reliability and validity) of the translated version of the FDS among a sample of 100 community-dwelling older adults. Results: The European Portuguese version of the FDS exhibited good psychometric properties. The scale's internal consistency was 0.84. Conclusions: The European Portuguese version of the FDS is a reliable, valid, and practical instrument for assessing the fear of dependency in older adults in the Portuguese population. It can be used in the context of health care provision and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a frequent and important consequence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) for Behcet's disease (BD) patients. Although various clinical scales are used to diagnose PTS, Villalta scale was accepted as the standard tool to diagnose and grade the severity of PTS. Poor quality of life (Qol) in the general population was defined for patients with PTS, however, studies in BD patients with PTS is limited. Our aim was to compare the performance of different scales to assess venous disease in BD patients with a history of DVT and to assess the relationship with quality of life. Methods: Patients with BD (n = 194, M/F:157/37, age:39.1 ± 9.5 years) with a DVT history were investigated. Villalta, VCSS,CEAP scale and SF 36,Veines scales were used to assess venous disease and QoL respectively. Results: Among BD patients, 120 (61.9 %) patients were classified as having PTS by Villalta and of patients 18% had severe PTS. Half of patients with CEAP score <4 were classified as having PTS. Also, 42% of patients with CEAP>4 and almost two third of VCSS classified severe CVD patients was grouped in severe PTS by Villalta scale. VCSS and Villalta classified PTS patients had decreased disease specific and general Qol scores compared to the patients without PTS. Also, severe PTS group (by VCSS) had decreased veines QoL scores and PCS compared to mild/moderate group. Conclusion: BD patients with DVT have a high risk of PTS. Our results show that both Villalta scale and VCSS should be used to assess venous disease BD patients with DVT. However, VCSS classified severity of PTS can show better correlation with venous disease -specific QoL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In Turkey and other collectivist cultures, child-rearing is a communal effort provided by multiple family members, especially female relatives such as mothers-in-law, aunts, and sisters. Environments with excessively controlling social factors can adversely affect their maternal roles. This study was conducted to develop a measurement tool for determining postpartum excessive social support. Methods: This is a scale development and psychometric evaluation study. In the study, a draft of the Postpartum Excessive Social Support Scale (PESSS) was created, subsequently submitted to expert opinion, and administered to mothers in the postpartum period of 1 to 6 weeks online between March and December 2023 (n = 440). A factor analysis (including explanatory factor analysis [EFA] and confirmatory factor analysis) was conducted to determine the construct validity of the scale, while Cronbach's alpha was examined to establish its reliability. Response bias (Hotelling T 2) and additivity (Tukey's test of additivity) of the scale were also determined in the study. Results: For the content validity of the scale, 10 experts from the field of midwifery were consulted (content validity index [CVI] = 0.80). As a result of the EFA, Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value was found as 0.916. Through factor analysis using the direct oblimin rotation technique, a four-factor structure was identified for the scale, explaining 64.197% of the total variance (social pressure, effect of environmental factors on paternal role, effect of environmental factors on maternal role, and barriers in mother–infant interaction). The internal reliability coefficient of the scale was highly reliable (Cronbach's alpha = 0.936). There was no response bias in the scale (Hotelling's T 2 = 433.558, p <.001) and it was additive (Tukey's Non-additivity = 0.000, p <.001). Discussion: The PESSS is a 20-item scale measuring excessive social support between 1 and 6 weeks postpartum. The PESSS serves as a guiding tool for health care professionals to identify excessive environmental pressure hindering mothers' maternal role and to provide care accordingly. In this context, health care professionals can readily utilize the PESSS in routine postpartum assessments for mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The implementation of emerging technologies has resulted in an increase of data breaches in healthcare organisations, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health information and cybersecurity managers need to understand if, and to what extent, breach types and locations are associated with their organisation's business type. Objective: To investigate if breach type and breach location are associated with business type, and if so, investigate how these factors affect information systems and protected health information in for-profit versus non-profit organisations. Method: The quantitative study was performed using chi-square tests for association and post-hoc comparison of column proportions analysis on an archival data set of reported healthcare data breaches from 2020 to 2022. Data from the Department of Health and Human Services website was retrieved and each organisation classified as for-profit or non-profit. Results: For-profit organisations experienced a significantly higher number of breaches due to theft, and non-profit organisations experienced a significantly higher number of breaches due to unauthorised access. Furthermore, the number of breaches that occurred on laptops and paper/films was significantly higher in for-profit organisations. Conclusion: While the threat level of hacking techniques is the same in for-profit and non-profit organisations, certain breach types are more likely to occur within specific breach locations based on the organisation's business type. To protect the privacy and security of medical information, health information and cybersecurity managers need to align with industry-leading frameworks and controls to prevent specific breach types that occur in specific locations within their environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare data frequently lack the specificity level needed to achieve clinical and operational objectives such as optimising bed management. Pneumonia is a disease of importance as it accounts for more bed days than any other lung disease and has a varied aetiology. The condition has a range of SNOMED CT concepts with different levels of specificity. Objective: This study aimed to quantify the importance of the specificity of an SNOMED CT concept, against well-established predictors, for forecasting length of stay for pneumonia patients. Method: A retrospective data analysis was conducted of pneumonia admissions to a tertiary hospital between 2011 and 2021. For inclusion, the primary diagnosis was a subtype of bacterial or viral pneumonia, as identified by SNOMED CT concepts. Three linear mixed models were constructed. Model One included known predictors of length of stay. Model Two included the predictors in Model One and SNOMED CT concepts of lower specificity. Model Three included the Model Two predictors and the concepts with higher specificity. Model performances were compared. Results: Sex, ethnicity, deprivation rank and Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (age-adjusted) were meaningful predictors of length of stay in all models. Inclusion of lower specificity SNOMED CT concepts did not significantly improve performance (ΔR2 = 0.41%, p =.058). SNOMED CT concepts with higher specificity explained more variance than each of the individual predictors (ΔR2 = 4.31%, p <.001). Conclusion: SNOMED CT concepts with higher specificity explained more variance in length of stay than a range of well-studied predictors. Implications: Accurate and specific clinical documentation using SNOMED CT can improve predictive modelling and the generation of actionable insights. Resources should be dedicated to optimising and assuring clinical documentation quality at the point of recording. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Language ability has been associated with emotion regulation (ER) ability. Children on the autism spectrum have greater rates of language delays and lower ER ability. Despite this, autism traits have not been considered or controlled for in past research. This study therefore examined the association between language ability and ER in young children with and without autism traits. An exploratory analysis was also conducted to examine the types of ER strategies used by young children with autism traits compared with young children without such traits. Ninety mother–toddler dyads participated in the study. Results showed greater receptive language ability was significantly associated with greater parent-reported ER ability both when children with, and children without, autism traits were included in the sample. Furthermore, greater expressive language ability was significantly associated with greater observed ER but only when children with autism traits were excluded from the analysis. These findings have clinical implications for early intervention development for both children with and without autism traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Evidence is limited on differences in cesarean rates for nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex (NTSV) births across racial and ethnic groups at the national and state level during the COVID-19 pandemic. We assessed changes in levels and trends of NTSV cesarean rates before and after stay-at-home orders (SAHOs) were implemented in the United States (1) overall, (2) by racial and ethnic groups, and (3) by 50 US states from January 2017 through December 2021. Methods: We used birth certificate data from 2017 through 2021, restricted to hospital births, to calculate monthly NTSV cesarean rates for the United States and for racial and ethnic groups and to calculate quarterly NTSV cesarean rates for the 50 states. We used interrupted time-series analysis to measure changes in NTSV cesarean rates before and after implementation of SAHOs (March 1 through May 31, 2020). Results: Of 6 022 552 NTSV hospital births, 1 579 645 (26.2%) were cesarean births. Before implementation of SAHOs, NTSV cesarean rates were declining in the United States overall; were declining among births to non-Hispanic Asian, non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic White women; and were declining in 6 states. During the first month of implementation of SAHOs in May 2020, monthly NTSV rates increased in the United States by 0.55%. Monthly NTSV rates increased by 1.20% among non-Hispanic Black women, 0.90% among Hispanic women, and 0.28% among non-Hispanic White women; quarterly NTSV rates increased in 6 states. Conclusion: In addition to emergency preparedness planning, hospital monitoring, and reporting of NTSV cesarean rates to increase provider awareness, reallocation and prioritization of resources may help to identify potential strains on health care systems during public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) can be used to examine the dynamics of suicidal ideation in daily life. While the general acceptability and feasibility of EMA in suicide research has been established, further examination of potential iatrogenic effects (i.e., negative reactivity) and identifying those more likely to react negatively is needed. Participants (N = 82) with current suicidal ideation completed 21 days of EMA (4×/day) and filled in M = 78% (Med = 84%) of the EMA. No positive or negative affect reactivity was observed in EMA ratings over the study period. Retrospectively, most participants rated their experience as positive (69%); 22% indicated mood worsening, and 18% suicidal ideation reactivity. Those with more borderline personality traits, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and higher depressive, anxiety, and suicidal ideation symptoms, were more likely to report iatrogenic effects. In conclusion, while high compliance rates and lack of affect reactivity during EMA indicate that EMA is well tolerated in suicide research, a minority of participants may report subjective mood effects in retrospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between mortality and the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in the pediatric patient group with ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) infection. A total of 63 pediatric patients with a VPS infection and positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture were retrospectively registered. The CSF specimens were analyzed to conduct culture and microscopic evaluation. A total of 44.4% of the cases were men and 55.6% of the cases were women. Patients were divided into 2 groups (survivor and non-survivor patients). When survivor and non-survivor patients were compared, it was found that CSF leukocytes, CSF glucose, CSF protein, CSF/blood glucose ratio, lymphocyte, albumin, and PNI levels were lower in the non-survivor patients' group. Nevertheless, blood glucose and CRP (C-reactive protein) were significantly higher in the non-survivor patients' group than in the survivor patients' group. In our investigation, we suggested that low PNI was related to high mortality in cases of VPS infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk factors for delayed chemotherapy–induced vomiting (DCIV) in pediatric oncology patients. We collected data on pediatric patients from a tertiary care pediatric hospital in an Asian urban center. We analyzed the risk factors for DCIV in patients by univariate analysis and logistic regression. Patients were grouped according to age by the Youden index, and differences in clinical features between the high-risk and low-risk groups were calculated. In the univariate analysis, the number of chemotherapy days, pH, and blood glucose levels were significantly associated with DCIV. In the logistic regression analysis, patient age was an independent risk factor (odds ratio [OR] = 1.013, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.005-1.021, P =.002). Children in the high-risk group had a higher grade of vomiting (P <.05). Age is an important risk factor for DCIV in pediatric patients, with older children tending to experience more frequent and more severe vomiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Enteral feeding tubes are commonly utilized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) due to the underdevelopment of coordination between sucking, swallowing, and breathing, or due to various diseases affecting the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, or neurological systems. The aim of the study was to investigate the differences in bacterial colonization patterns in hospitalized infants who received enteral feeding through either nasogastric (NG) or orogastric (OG) feeding tubes. Materials and Methods: This study was a hospital-based cross-sectional investigation that was carried out on infants who were admitted to the NICU. The NICU gathered feeding tubes throughout 4 months, beginning in August 2022 and continuing through December 2022. In addition, informed consent was collected from the participant's parents or legal guardians for the entire group of people who took part in the research. The fact that the patient participated in this study had no bearing on the level of care that they were given. The research team gave serious consideration to recruiting any of the newborns who were receiving medical attention in the NICU and who had a feeding tube inserted during the time that sample collection was taking place. The infants did not receive any probiotics as a form of treatment in any of the cases. Results: Infants with NG tubes had a significantly higher number of C-sections (P = 0.04), infants with NG tube were exclusively breastfed (P = 0.02), and one or more dose of antenatal steroids was administered more in infants with OG tube (P = 0.04). The most common types of bacteria found in NG and OG tubes were Proteobacteria (with a mean relative abundance of 50% and 60%, respectively), Firmicutes (with a mean relative abundance of 33% and 23%, respectively), and Actinobacteria (9% and 7%, respectively). Conclusion: Oral versus nasal feeding tube insertion was found to have a greater influence on bacterial colonization than any of the other clinical factors that were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges with its impact on patient safety culture and staff well-being. This study was to identify potential changes in safety culture among health care workers from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to determine the differences across occupational groups. The Safety Attitudes Questionnaire (SAQ) was administered electronically in both English and Malay languages using the Google Forms platform in 2018 and was repeated in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Comparisons were made between 2018 and 2021 to determine changes in patient safety culture for the overall staff population and by occupational groups. A total of 3175 health care workers completed the questionnaire in 2021. Overall, a comparable percentage agreement was found for all SAQ domains in 2018 and 2021 with visible improvements for doctors and support staff. Safety Attitudes Questionnaire domain scores differed in teamwork, safety climate, perception of hospital management, and working condition domains across occupational groups. Self-isolation and COVID-19 were associated with poorer SAQ domain scores, while redeployment was associated with improvements in SAQ domain scores. Interventions targeting areas of weakness as well as utilizing positive experiences such as redeployment should be explored to enhance patient safety in hospitals settings postpandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Low-vision quality-of-life (LVQOL) questionnaire was recently translated to Persian. Its model fit and construct validity were assessed by exploratory and confirmatory analysis for adults with visual impairment, before. In this study, we aimed to test the reliability of the Persian LVQOL questionnaire based on Rasch analysis. Methods: Overall, 100 low-vision patients and 100 demographic statue-matched control subjects were participated for evaluating reliability aspects. All the participants were asked to complete the Persian LVQOL questionnaire. The low-vision group was asked to fill out the LVQOL 3 months after rehabilitation to determine how rehabilitation changed the quality of life. Rasch analyses of the survey items were conducted using WINSTEPS. Results: All items fitted the Rasch model. Point-measure correlations values varied from.13 to.70, providing a preliminary indication of adequate construct validity. All factor loadings found more than.4. infit values for all other participants were in the acceptable range. All items obtained infit and outfit MSQ values of < 2.0. Patients' abilities relative to the item difficulty were analyzed. Item difficulty was estimated and item characteristic curves were included. Sufficient unidimensionality, hierarchical order, and equal interval scaring were obtained. Conclusion: The Persian LVQOL questionnaire was reliable enough and it will be valuable in both clinical practice and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The significance of CXCL5 in pancreatic cancer is unclear, although it has been implicated in the malignant process of many different types of cancer. Research on the impact of CXCL5 on immune cell infiltration and the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer is needed. This study aimed to examine the connection between CXCL5 expression and immune cell infiltration and the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer. Methods: Tissue samples and clinical information were collected from 90 patients with pancreatic cancer. Tumour tissues and adjacent tissues were made into a tissue microarray and stained for immunohistochemistry analysis. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot analysis were performed to measure the expression level of CXCL5. CXCL5-overexpressing/CXCL5-knockdown cell lines were constructed via transfection for cytological experiments. CCK-8, cell apoptosis, cell cycle, cell invasion, and cell colony formation assays were used to detect the effect of CXCL5 on the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer cells. Finally, a mouse model of pancreatic cancer was constructed for in vivo verification. Results: Compared with control cells, pancreatic cancer cells overexpressing CXCL5 exhibited increased proliferation, migration, and invasion but decreased apoptosis. Conversely, knockdown of CXCL5 did not enhance the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer cells. Spearman correlation analysis indicated that there was a significant negative correlation between CXCL5 levels and the CD8 IRS. However, there was a significant positive correlation between FOXP3 IRS and CXCL5 levels. Conclusions: CXCL5 is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer and promotes the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer cells. CXCL5 is associated with immunosuppressive FOXP3 + T-cell infiltration, which facilitates the formation of an immunosuppressive microenvironment (with low CD8 + T-cell infiltration). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Social media use is increasing every year, and nurses use social media to connect with each other. As Instagram was the most downloaded application in 2022 worldwide, this study focused on nurses' use of Instagram in the context of the development of a professional identity and in support of the professionalization of nursing. Objectives: The aim of the study was to find out how nurses use their Instagram profiles to influence their followers' professional identity and support the professionalization of nursing. Therefore, nurses' Instagram posts and the hashtags they used were analyzed. Methods: A visual content analysis to analyze different Instagram posts using a hierarchical cluster analysis, an ANOVA, and a qualitative content analysis were conducted. The most frequently used nursing-related hashtags were analyzed to include different Instagram profiles (n = 15) in the study. Results: This study identified three different clusters of Instagram profiles, which can be characterized as " Show me what you do," " Let's do education," and " The things we believe in." Consequently, it can be stated that nurses who display their values and beliefs in Instagram reels, half in nursing settings and half at home, have the highest number of followers and significantly more comments per post. The cluster that showed significantly more knowledge-based posts had the lowest number of followers and significantly the lowest number of comments. The content analysis of the hashtags used suggested that nurses who identify themselves as such want to attract attention from other nurses who use nursing-related hashtags. Conclusions: The results reveal that there is a possible benefit of the use of social media in the development of the nursing profession and professional identity. Followers and interactions can be generated when Instagram users identify with the profile and wish to discuss professional beliefs and values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evidence from animal and human studies suggests glutamatergic dysfunction in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The purpose of this study was to investigate glutamate abnormalities in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLFPC) of individuals with PTSD using 7T MRS, which has better spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio than lower field strengths, thus allowing for better spectral quality and higher sensitivity. We hypothesized that individuals with PTSD would have lower glutamate levels compared to trauma-exposed individuals without PTSD and individuals without trauma exposure. Additionally, we explored potential alterations in other neurometabolites and the relationship between glutamate and psychiatric symptoms. Methods: Individuals with PTSD (n = 27), trauma-exposed individuals without PTSD (n = 27), and individuals without trauma exposure (n = 26) underwent 7T MRS to measure glutamate and other neurometabolites in the left DLPFC. The severities of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation symptoms were assessed. Results: We found that glutamate was lower in the PTSD and trauma-exposed groups compared to the group without trauma exposure. Furthermore, N -acetylaspartate (NAA) was lower and lactate was higher in the PTSD group compared to the group without trauma exposure. Glutamate was negatively correlated with depression symptom severity in the PTSD group. Glutamate was not correlated with PTSD symptom severity. Conclusion: In this first 7T MRS study of PTSD, we observed altered concentrations of glutamate, NAA, and lactate. Our findings provide evidence for multiple possible pathological processes in individuals with PTSD. High-field MRS offers insight into the neurometabolic alterations associated with PTSD and is a powerful tool to probe trauma- and stress-related neurotransmission and metabolism in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrinopathies among young women. Ultrasound evidence of polycystic ovaries is one of its crucial diagnostic criteria. Objectives: Our main objective is to study the contribution of ultrasound data in diagnosing PCOS. In addition, we aim to establish a new cutoff point for the use of ultrasound and to determine its sensitivity as well as its specificity. Design: It was a prospective study, including all patients presenting with clinical hyperandrogenism. Methods: The ultrasound examination of these patients was performed using a novel ultrasound machine (18 MHz) compared to an older ultrasound machine (2 Hz–8 MHz). Inclusion criteria encompassed adult female patients over 18 years presenting symptoms suggestive of PCOS, particularly hyperandrogenism and oligo-anovulation, meeting Rotterdam's diagnostic criteria. Prior to inclusion, assessments were conducted to eliminate other potential causes explaining hyperandrogenism or menstrual disorders in both groups. Results: We examined 92 patients diagnosed with PCOS. Menstrual disorders were the main symptoms, with amenorrhea being more frequent in the PCOS group (G1) (48.9% vs the control group (G2): 11.1%). The follicle number was significantly lower in the control group, as assessed by both ultrasound machines (p < 10−3). The accuracy of the new ultrasound device was evaluated compared to the old one using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, revealing a cutoff of 18 follicles (sensitivity of 68.1%, specificity of 100%) and an area under the curve of 0.955. We found a significant difference between the median values of the number of follicles (NF) by both ultrasound machines (18 vs 12). It was positively correlated with an index of r = 0.916. For the volume, it was distinctively higher in G1 (p < 10−3). ROC curve analysis revealed an ovarian volume cutoff of 9.25 ml with a sensitivity of 48.9% and a specificity of 100%. Both ultrasound machines were positively correlated with an index of r = 0.979 (p < 10−3). Conclusion: In conclusion, we were able to establish significant correlations between the new and the old ultrasound devices for both the NF and ovarian volume. Our study is distinctive as it represents the first on the African continent to re-evaluate the ultrasound criterion for PCOS. Plain language summary: Validating ultrasound criteria for PCOS in North African patients In this study, we explored patients using ultrasound to better diagnose Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in North African women. Ovarian follicles are small sacs in a woman's ovaries that not only release eggs but also produce important hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These hormones regulate the menstrual cycle, prepare the body for pregnancy, and influence many aspects of a woman's health and well-being. We set new standards for measuring follicles and ovaries to improve diagnosis accuracy. Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is often diagnosed using ultrasound in North African women. Current ultrasound standards may not be accurate enough for this group. This study aimed to improve PCOS diagnosis by setting new standards for measuring ovarian sizes and follicle numbers. Methods: We reviewed a new ultrasound method. We then established new measurement thresholds specific to North African women. These new standards were tested for accuracy in diagnosing PCOS. Results: Our new measurement thresholds were more accurate in diagnosing PCOS. The improved standards led to better identification of PCOS in North African women. This suggests that current ultrasound methods might need adjustments based on population-specific data. Conclusions: Using ultrasound with new measurement standards can improve PCOS diagnosis in North African women. Adjusting diagnostic criteria to specific populations may enhance overall healthcare outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted emergency department (ED) operations and patient care. Understanding its effects on nursing processes, triage accuracy, and wait times is pivotal for optimizing outcomes. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the differences in nursing processes, triage accuracy, and wait times before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design: A retrospective cohort study. Methods: The study analyzed 224 electronic medical records from a single ED, with 120 records from the pre-pandemic period (January 2019–February 2020) and 104 records from the pandemic period (March 2020–March 2021). Dependent variables included missed nursing care per validated scales, triage accuracy per Emergency Severity Index, and wait times for nursing triage and physician examination. Independent factors encompassed sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and organization dynamics. Results: Sociodemographic and clinical profiles were comparable between periods. Triage accuracy remained high except for older patients. Nursing triage wait times differed little, yet physician examination and urgent case waits decreased amidst the pandemic. Nursing documentation completeness, such as recording patient status and mental state, augmented during this crisis period. Conclusion: This evaluation identified differences in triage accuracy, wait times, and documentation completeness before and during the COVID-19 pandemic period at a single institution. Patient age and clinical status influenced some metrics. Lessons from comparing precrisis benchmarks to intra-pandemic nursing performance may guide pandemic preparedness strategies. Further research is warranted to optimize emergency processes and outcomes during public health emergencies, as well as examine strategies through multicenter investigations comparing prepandemic to intra-pandemic performance to provide broader insights into challenges and inform efforts to bolster emergency care through future crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: An increasing population and a shortage of identified potential organ donors are causing the waiting list for organ transplants to grow continuously. Donation after circulatory death (DCD) is a method aimed at meeting the demand for transplantable organs. However, it presents new challenges in nursing care, and there is a lack of studies investigating nurses' attitudes and knowledge of DCD. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine and describe intensive care nurses' (ICNs') knowledge, attitudes, and views on DCD before a national implementation in Sweden. Method: This study utilized a cross-sectional mixed-method design. A convenience sampling method was employed, targeting ICNs working in four intensive care units in Sweden. A study-specific tool comprising fixed and free-text questions was developed. Fifty-one ICNs participated. Data were analyzed descriptively, and correlation analysis was performed using Spearman's correlation. Free-text answers were qualitatively assessed and analyzed. An integrated analysis was conducted to synthesize the quantitative and qualitative findings. Results: Fifty-three percent reported limited knowledge about DCD. Nurses with previous education on DCD had significantly higher knowledge (r =.380, p =.006), were more engaged with the public debate on organ donation (r =.423, p =.002), and considered the ethical aspects of DCD more thoroughly (r =.386, p =.022). The qualitative analysis identified four key categories: The importance of the team, the need for ethical discussions, increased knowledge of DCD, and unanswered questions and unmet needs. The integrated analysis underscored the need for targeted education, clear guidelines, and ongoing ethical discussions to prepare ICU nurses for DCD. Conclusion: Nurses educated in organ donor care had better knowledge and a more positive attitude toward DCD implementation. The study also highlights the importance of interprofessional teamwork in DCD implementation. The findings suggest that education on DCD could improve the identification and implementation of DCD donors, addressing the global shortage of transplantable organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrostomy feeding is a route of enteral nutrition for children with feeding difficulties. This study investigated caregiver experiences of the transition to gastrostomy feeding. A survey was administered to caregivers of children <18 years in a major pediatric center in Ireland. Experiences of decision-making, support, and adjusting to tube feeding were examined. Seventy-six caregivers participated. Median satisfaction with the information provided by the hospital was high. Almost half (48%) spoke to another caregiver of a child with a gastrostomy prior to their own child's gastrostomy insertion and most (88%) felt reassured by this. Concerns following insertion included managing the tube and their child's oral intake and feelings about the tube. The oral intake of 83% of children who had some intake prior to gastrostomy insertion did not change or increased following insertion. Most (89%) would make the same decision to insert the tube. Feelings associated with the transition included relief and stress. Gastrostomy tube insertion presents logistical and psychosocial challenges for caregivers. Peer support from other caregivers may alleviate some of these challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Simulation training has become an integral component of nursing education, offering students opportunities to develop and refine their clinical skills in a controlled and safe environment. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical skill competence and professional behaviors of undergraduate nursing students following simulation training. Design: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed for this study. Setting: The study was conducted in the simulation center at the University of Tabuk using the Clinical Competency Questionnaire (CCQ), with data collected between January 1, 2023 and February 28, 2023. Participants were enrolled using a convenience sampling method, including nursing students in the 3rd and 4th years who trained in the simulation center and agreed to participate. Results: The study results indicate that a majority of students demonstrated strong theoretical knowledge and practical competence in performing sterile techniques and administering oral medications with minimal or no supervision, with percentages of 74.7% and 73.3%, respectively. A significant proportion of students reported uncertainty or lack of skill in performing shift reports using SBAR (38.4%) and assessing gastrostomy tube placement (32.9%). Students exhibited satisfactory knowledge and competence in maintaining appropriate appearance, attire, and conduct (71.2%), understanding, and supporting group goals (71.2%), and comprehending patients' rights (69.9%). Conclusion: The findings suggest that nursing students attain a relatively high level of clinical competence and self-confidence after simulation training. This study recommends incorporating simulation training in nursing education, which enhances professional behaviors like appearance, group goals, and patient rights, but requires improvement in constructive criticism, problem prevention, and cultural competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Increasing incidence of fragility fractures has spurred development of protocols, largely focused on peri-operative care, with numerous proven benefits. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate outcomes of our hip fracture treatment program regarding successful protocol implementation, compliance, effect on subsequent fracture rates, and mortality during the first decade of adoption. Methods: A retrospective review identified patients >65 years old with fragility hip fractures between 2010 and 2022. The HiROC (+) cohort consisted of patients who received a "High-Risk Osteoporosis Clinic" (HiROC) referral for bone health evaluation and bisphosphonate initiation as indicated. Additional fracture rates and mortality at 3 years were calculated. Protocol implementation and compliance over the first 10 years was analyzed in the four identified cohorts. Results: A total of 1671 fragility hip fractures were identified, with 386 excluded due to insufficient follow-up, with an average age of 81.6 years and a median follow-up of 36.4 months. Of the 1280 included cases, 56% (n = 717) had a HiROC referral placed. HiROC(+) groups had lower subsequent fracture rates at two years, compared to those without referral (28% vs 13%, P < 0.0001) and those completing more steps of the protocol had lower subsequent fracture rates (28% vs 15% vs 13% vs 5%, P < 0.0001). No statistically significant difference was observed between the cohorts for anatomic site of subsequent fractures. Discussion: Greater than half of all eligible patients were successfully captured by the protocol. Patients completing more steps of the protocol had lower subsequent fracture rates. Captured patients demonstrated reduced mortality rates when compared to current literature. Conclusion: Successful implementation of this geriatric hip fracture protocol was associated with reduced additional fractures and mortality rates. Identifying steps of process failures in the protocol can provide opportunities for increased compliance and reduction in future fracture occurrences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Vestibular Activities and Participation Measure (VAP) subscales assess the effect of vestibular disorders on activity and participation. This study aimed to perform the cross-cultural adaptation and assess the validity, internal consistency, reliability, and measurement error of the Brazilian version of VAP subscales. Methods: The cross-cultural adaptation followed the translation, synthesis, back-translation, review by a committee of experts, and pretesting phases. Structural validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), while Spearman's correlation between VAP subscales and the Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) was used to assess construct validity. Cronbach's alpha measured internal consistency. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) assessed intra- and inter-rater reliability, and measurement error was calculated by using the standard error of measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC). Results: Additional information was included in the Brazilian version of the Vestibular Activities and Participation measure (VAP-BR) after approval by one of the developers of the instrument to improve the understanding among individuals. One factor was found in the EFA for each subscale with 50% explained variance. Regarding CFA, the subscales 1 (S1) and 2 (S2) presented, respectively, adequate model fit indices (ie, comparative fit index of 0.99 and 0.97, and standardized root mean square residual of 0.04 for both subscales), but a very low factor load in item 6 of S1 (0.08). Chronbach's alpha was 0.80 (S1) and 0.82 (S2). For intra-rater assessment, the S1 and S2 presented an ICC of 0.87 and 0.90, SEM of 0.01 and 1.16, and MDC of 0.39 and 0.46, respectively. When assessed by 2 different raters, SEM values were 1.03 and 1.53, and MDC values were 2.85 and 4.23 for S1 and S2, respectively; both subscales showed an ICC of 0.92. Correlations between DHI and VAP subscales presented coefficients above 0.57. Conclusion: The Brazilian version of VAP subscales presents good measurement properties and may assist health professionals in identifying activity limitations and participation restrictions in individuals with vestibular disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and fluctuating disease. Optimal management of AD and related comorbidities requires seamless coordination across multiple layers of the healthcare system. The objective of this survey was to explore patients' experiences with current management of AD. Out of 251 responders to this anonymous survey, 76% reported to have moderate or severe AD. Sixty-nine percent with moderate and 45% with severe AD were followed up at primary care level only. Use of advanced systemic treatment options was rare, and the majority experienced itch (97%), dry skin, rash, negative impact on self-esteem and comorbidities despite ongoing treatment. Only 36% received a treatment plan, more often in secondary (78.3%) than primary care (25.0%). Forty-three percent did not know who was responsible for their follow-up and 54% felt no one was responsible. Treatment options were commonly not known or understood. The survey results demonstrate undertreatment, lack of a holistic approach for management of AD. A national pathway including clear referral criteria and timelines can streamline management of AD across multiple levels of the healthcare system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The aim of our study was to comparatively assess volume changes related to daily occupation of the whole leg (WLv), of the lower leg (LLv) and of the upper leg (ULv) in subject with no venous and lymphatic disorders. Method: WLv, LLv, and Ulv were evaluated by water displacement volumetry (WDV) in the morning and in the evening in 20 healthy subjects. Results: In the legs with occupational edema (OE), WLv increased by 7.07%, LLv by 5.25%, and ULv by 9.80%. In legs without clear OE, WLv increased by 2.41%, LLv by 1.35, and ULv by 3.38%. Conclusions: Surprisingly, the increase of ULv was greater than that of LLv. An evening increase in the leg volume also occurred in legs with no clear OE. In our series, a clinically evident OE was related to an increase of the WLv, LLv, and ULv greater than 5.83%, 8.68%, and 1.88%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Professional values are important in promoting healthy work environments, patient satisfaction, and quality of care. Magnet® hospitals are recognized for excellence in nursing care and as such, understanding the relationship between nurses' values and Magnet status is essential as healthcare organizations seek to improve patient outcomes. Research question/aim/objectives: The research question is: are there differences in individual values, professional values, and nursing care quality for nurses and nurse managers practicing in Magnet, Magnet journey, and non-Magnet direct patient care settings? Research Design: This descriptive cross-sectional study is guided and informed by the conceptual framework of the Professional Values Model including individual values, professional values, and nursing care quality. Participants and research context: Convenience sampling of registered nurses and nurse managers, responsible for direct patient care, was utilized in a non-profit healthcare system in the Midwest region of the United States. Ethical Considerations: Institutional review board approval was obtained. Participants were informed about the right to self-determine participation and assurance of anonymity. Findings: 827 (n = 827) nurses and nurse managers responded to the survey. Significant differences were identified in individual values sub-scale: self-enhancement (p = 0.38), professional values (p = 0.037), practice environment: participation in hospital affairs (p = 0.00), foundations for quality care (p = 0.016), and resources adequacy (p = 0.012) and in nurse sensitive HCAHPS questions: nurses explained things understandably (p = 0.00), got help as soon as wanted (p = 0.00), and treated with courtesy and respect (p = 0.00). Discussion/Conclusions: Findings indicate that fostering individual and professional values may impact nursing practice, regardless of Magnet designation. Promoting professional values may contribute to improved work environments, enhancing patient satisfaction. Study results offer valuable insights for organizations striving to enhance nursing values, impacting quality of care provided to patients. MeSH Terms: Cross-Sectional Studies, Respect, Ethics Committees, Patient Satisfaction, Nurse Administrators, and Personal Satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Student selection is the first step in recruiting future social and healthcare professionals. Ethically competent professionals are needed in social and healthcare. It is important to select applicants who have the best possible abilities to develop their ethical competence in the future. Values-based recruitment has been used to inform the recruitment and selection of higher education applicants. However, objective and valid tests in student selection are needed. Aim: To assess social and healthcare applicants' success and related factors in the ethics section of the universities of applied sciences digital entrance examination (UAS Exam) to undergraduate degree programmes. Research design: A cross-sectional design was used. Participants and research context: Social and healthcare applicants needed to identify ethical situations in the ethics section of a national digital entrance examination (UAS Exam) in autumn 2019 (between 29 October and 1 November) in 20 Finnish universities of applied sciences. Ethical considerations: The process for the responsible conduct of research was followed in the study. Ethics committee approval was obtained from the Human Sciences Ethics Committee in the Satakunta region (27 September 2019). Approval to undertake the study was obtained from the participating universities of applied sciences. Participation to the study was voluntary and based on informed consent. Results: The applicants' (n = 8971) mean scores were 7.1/20 (standard deviation 6.5), and 22.7% of the applicants failed the ethics section. Age, previous education, and place of birth (own/parent) explained the applicants' success in the ethics section (total score and failed exam results). Conclusion(s): Applicants' success in the ethics section varied indicating that future students may have a different basis to develop their ethical competence. This may impact on (new) students' learning, especially in practical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following late-life spousal bereavement, sensory and quasi-sensory experiences of the deceased (SED) are commonly reported. This longitudinal study examined SED among 310 older widowed adults 6–10 (T1) and 18–20 (T2) months post loss. Reports of SED in the first 6–10 months after loss were associated with higher symptom levels of prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and loneliness at T1. Experiencers of SED were more likely to experience symptoms of prolonged grief and post-traumatic stress above cut-off scores at T1. Importantly, only a minority of the experiencers of SED displayed these elevated levels of bereavement-related distress. In addition, employing multi-level-modeling, a similar trajectory of decreasing bereavement-related distress over time was found for both experiencers and non-experiencers of SED. We argue that SED may be one of several potential reactions to bereavement, which should not be seen as an indicator of grief complications per se. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Prelacrimal recess approach can be used to access lesions of the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus (MS). Moreover, the longer the prelacrimal recess window distance (PLRWD), the easier it is to access the anterior wall. This study aimed to define the correlation between maxillary sinus pneumatization (MSP) and PLRWD, a previously defined anatomic factor predictive of the ease of prelacrimal recess approach (PLRA). Methods: In total, 506 sides of 253 participants were studied. In the axial image, the PLRWD, the distance between the anterior wall of the MS and the lacrimal duct, was measured through radioanatomical analysis and classified as type I (<3 mm), type II (3-7 mm), or type III (>7 mm). On the coronal image, the distance between the nasal floor and the lower end of the MS was measured. When MSP did not reach the nasal floor, it was classified as grade I, as grade II when MSP reached the nasal floor, and grade III when the MS was pneumatized below the nasal floor. Results: Type I included 115 sides (22.7%); type II, 277 sides (54.7%); and type III, 114 sides (22.5%). Grade I was observed in 58 sides (11.5%), grade II in 38 sides (7.5%), and grade III in 410 sides (81.0%). The mean PLRWD of grade I was 2.35 ± 2.41 mm, II was 3.37 ± 2.46 mm, and III was 5.55 ± 2.54 mm, showing a significant difference (P <.001). Post hoc analysis showed significant differences in the mean PLRWD among grades I, II, and III. Two anatomical factors, the MSP and PLRWD, were positively correlated (r =.507, P <.001). Conclusions: This study demonstrates a correlation between the feasibility of MSP and PLRA. Both MSP and PLRWD are essential diagnostic parameters for preoperative planning and better surgical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The recommended objective for mental health plans and policies is the adoption of recovery approaches to mental healthcare. Mental health recovery is no longer defined by symptom resolution but as a journey towards a meaningful life from the consumer's own perspective. Recovery approaches focus on consumers' strengths, feelings of well-being and the achievement of personal goals. Designing recovery-oriented interventions is crucial for supporting people in their personal recovery journey. Aim: This study sought to evaluate how attending a recovery-oriented intervention impacts the recovery of attending people living with serious mental illness. Methods: A quasi-experimental approach was utilised to examine changes in self-reported recovery progress in a purposive sample of consumers living with enduring mental illness (N = 105). Recovery progress was evaluated via the Recovery Assessment Scale – Domains and Stages (RAS-DS). Data were collected at entry and exit to a therapeutic recreation programme grounded in principles of recovery-oriented care and social contact theory. Pre-post scores were analysed via a repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance (RM-MANOVA) per the four RAS-DS recovery domains. Results: After attending the therapeutic recreation programme, consumer recovery scores significantly increased in the functional, personal, and social recovery RAS-DS domains as measured by ' Doing Things I Value', 'Looking Forward ', and ' Connecting and Belonging' (respectively). No changes were observed to consumers' clinical recovery progress, as assessed via the recovery domain ' Mastering my Illness'. Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate that therapeutic recreation camps can provide a recovery-based approach to mental healthcare, with positive effects on the three areas of: a purposeful life; connection and belonging; and optimism and hope. Recovery Camp has been previously identified by the Productivity Commission as having potential person-centred recovery benefits for mental health consumers. The results of this study now establish these benefits as evidence based and can be used to guide mental health practice and policy for the implementation of therapeutic recreation camps for mental health recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Income inequality, a pivotal determinant of general and mental health, operates through intricate mechanisms at various geographical scales. While established at country or region levels, the impact of lower-level (municipal or neighborhood) inequality remains inconsistent. This study explores the influence of regional- and municipal-level income inequality on individual psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy, employing a multilevel data analysis. Materials and methods: In a post hoc analysis of data from the first wave of the pandemic (March to April 2020), three hierarchical levels were considered: individual participants, municipalities, and regions. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were measured using the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales, while the Gini coefficient gauged income inequality at municipal and regional levels. The analysis incorporated demographic variables as potential confounders. Results: The study encompassed 21 regions, 3,900 municipalities, and 21,477 subjects. Income inequality at both regional and municipal levels exhibited associations with distress scores, suggesting independent effects. Notably, higher distress scores were identified in southern regions with elevated inequality, despite a more substantial COVID-19 impact in the north. Discussion: Findings contribute to existing literature by emphasizing the independent impact of lower-level (municipal) and higher-level (regional) income inequality on population psychopathology. The study supports theories suggesting diverse pathways through which inequality at different levels influences health, such as potential associations with healthcare system dysfunction at the regional level and welfare dysfunction at the municipal level. The observed north-south gradient in distress scores highlights the need for psychosocial interventions to alleviate income inequality, especially in historically disadvantaged southern regions. Future research should explore the nuanced interplay between income inequality and various ecological variables to provide a comprehensive understanding of its health impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite growing evidence for learning loss due to COVID-19, there is little research examining this phenomenon using norm-referenced tests (NRTs) or with special educations students. Using a repeated-measures design with 96 fourth- through 12th-grade students previously identified as eligible for special education services, the present study attempted to measure learning loss using W Difference scores gathered from triennial evaluations using the Woodcock–Johnson IV Tests of Achievement. Findings revealed that participants fell further behind proficiency expectations in the areas of decoding, spelling, and math calculation skills. Academic proficiency was found to differ markedly from normative expectations for typical same-age peers across tests, both prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. While academic proficiency was more like that of a clinical sample of students with learning disabilities, moderate to large differences in the sample means of most tests suggest that COVID-19 has had a negative impact on academic achievement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This clinical pharmacy on-call program (CPOP) is a 24-hour, in-house service provided by pharmacy residents. During shifts, challenging situations may arise, which may correlate with depression, anxiety, and stress. Objective: This pilot study aims to describe the implementation of a debriefing program and characterize mental health patterns of residents in the CPOP. Methods: A structured debriefing process was developed to provide support to residents in the CPOP. Over a 1-year period, twelve outgoing pharmacy residents and ten incoming pharmacy residents completed a modified Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (mDASS-21) questionnaire and received a stress perception score (SPS) during debriefing. Data from first and final on-call shifts were compared via a paired Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Residents were referred to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) based on mDASS-21 and SPS results. Scores from final on-call shifts were compared between residency classes via a Wilcoxon rank sum test. Results: Following successful implementation, 106 debriefing sessions were completed. Pharmacy residents responded to a median number of 38 events per shift. Significant reductions in anxiety and stress scores were observed from the first and final on-call shifts. Six residents were referred to EAP. A lower incidence of depression, anxiety, and stress was observed in pharmacy residents who received debriefing compared to previous residents. Conclusion: The debriefing program provided emotional support to pharmacy residents participating in the CPOP. Implementation of debriefing demonstrated a reduction of anxiety and stress from the beginning to the end of the academic year and in comparison to the previous year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether deep-learning reconstruction (DLR) improves interobserver agreement in the evaluation of honeycombing for patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) who underwent high-resolution computed tomography (CT) compared with hybrid iterative reconstruction (HIR). Methods: In this retrospective study, 35 consecutive patients suspected of ILD who underwent CT including the chest region were included. High-resolution CT images of the unilateral lung with DLR and HIR were reconstructed for the right and left lungs. A radiologist placed regions of interest on the lung and measured standard deviation of CT attenuation (i.e., quantitative image noise). In the qualitative image analyses, 5 blinded readers assessed the presence of honeycombing and reticulation, qualitative image noise, artifacts, and overall image quality using a 5-point scale (except for artifacts which was evaluated using a 3-point scale). Results: The quantitative and qualitative image noise in DLR was remarkably reduced compared to that in HIR (P <.001). Artifacts and overall DLR quality were significantly improved compared to those of HIR (P <.001 for 4 out of 5 readers). Interobserver agreement in the evaluations of honeycombing and reticulation for DLR (0.557 [0.450-0.693] and 0.525 [0.470-0.541], respectively) were higher than those for HIR (0.321 [0.211-0.520] and 0.470 [0.354-0.533], respectively). A statistically significant difference was found for honeycombing (P =.014). Conclusions: DLR improved interobserver agreement in the evaluation of honeycombing in patients with ILD on CT compared to HIR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students with mental health needs, behavioral support needs, and/or emotional disturbance can engage in internalizing behaviors, externalizing behaviors, or both. Preservice and induction phase elementary general education teachers are reported to have limited education in providing evidence-based behavior management strategies, especially for students who engage in internalizing and/or externalizing behaviors. There is little understanding as to the differences in elementary general education teachers' knowledge, application, and self-efficacy in applying evidence-based behavior management strategies between preservice teachers, first-year teachers, second-year teachers, and third-year teachers. The purpose of this preliminary secondary data analysis was to examine differences in U.S. elementary general education teacher knowledge, application, and self-efficacy in evidence-based behavior management strategies from preservice to induction phase teaching. Results indicated third-year teachers had significantly less behavior management knowledge than preservice teachers. All other results were nonsignificant; however, there were practical differences when comparing the four groups on the knowledge and application measures. Implications for findings indicate the need for induction programs to focus on evidence-based behavior management strategies to support the development of behavior management for induction phase elementary education teachers as they progress through their first 3 years of teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we examined whether experience level and various dual motor and cognitive or single tasks influenced young soccer players' physical performance during small-sided games. Participants were 72 players from U-13 (n = 36) and U-17 (n = 36) groups who participated in 3-to-a-side small-sided games under four experimental conditions: control, a secondary motor task, an additional related secondary cognitive task, and an additional secondary non-specific task. We used GPS devices to measure physical performance in terms of distances covered and accelerations at different thresholds. We found no significant interaction effect between player experience and task condition (p =.540), meaning that dual tasks had comparable effects on players of different experience levels. There were significant main effects of both experience level (p <.001) and condition (p <.001) on most physically related variables. Older players outperformed younger ones, particularly in high-intensity actions. While secondary motor tasks decreased physical performance, secondary cognitive tasks, irrespective of specificity, did not impair players' performances. In conclusion, experience level did not influence the players' physical response to dual tasks, and a secondary motor task was more disruptive to physical performance than either of two types of secondary cognitive tasks. Cognitive tasks can be incorporated into soccer training without compromising physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improvements in race times for male and female Para canoe athletes across different sports classes have led to a reduction in relative differences between classes over time. However, there is a lack of research examining the comparative developmental trajectories between high-performance Paralympic (PCS) and Olympic (OCS) canoe sprint. In this study, we compared the developmental trajectories of 200-meter kayak performances among PCS and OCS athletes. In total, we analyzed 628 race results obtained from public online databases, for nine competitions between 2015 and 2023. Race times were reduced over the years except in specific sports classes (KL3-M, K1-M, and K1-F; KL: Kayak Level, M: male, F: female), with a poor positive correlation (r = 0.17 to 0.33) between time and the years. For the remaining sports classes, these correlations ranged from poor to fair (r = −0.58 to −0.13). OCS K1 athletes outperformed their Paralympic counterparts. Among Paralympic classes, KL1 had slower times than KL2 and KL3 (p ≤.05), with KL2 times significantly lower than KL3 in the female category. OCS athletes exhibited less variability in race times compared to PCS athletes. In the male category, there were no significant differences in the coefficients of variation (CV) and amplitude of race times between sport classes, except for KL1-M, which had a larger CV than K1 (p ≤.05). In the female category, the CV and amplitude of race times were significantly higher in KL1-F compared to KL3-F and K1-F. OCS times remained stable from 2015, with KL3-M following a similar trend. PCS displayed greater race time variability, particularly in higher impairment classes, notably KL1. This underscores the existence of distinct developmental stages within the canoe sprint modality, particularly emphasizing the early developmental phase of KL1. It also provides valuable insights for coaches and sports selection, especially concerning athletes with more severe impairments, including those in Rehabilitation Centers and during athlete recruitment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study was to define the risk factors associated with contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) in patients who underwent coronary artery angiography (CAG). In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent CAG between March 2014 and January 2022 were evaluated. A total of 2923 eligible patients were included in the study. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictive factors. CI-AKI developed in 77 (2.6%) of 2923 patients. In multivariate analysis, diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were found to be independent factors associated with CI-AKI. In the subgroup analysis of patients with eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2, eGFR remained a predictor of CI-AKI (Odds ratio (OR):.89, 95% CI:.84-.93; that is, a lower eGFR remains a risk factor for CI-AKI). In the receiving operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of patients with eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2, the area under the curve of the eGFR was.826. Using the ROC curve based on Youden's index, the eGFR cut-off was found to be 70 mL/min/1.73 m2 for patients with eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2. eGFR is also an important risk factor in patients with eGFR 60-70 mL/min/1.73 m2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intimate partner violence (IPV) disproportionally affects women. Using the vulnerability-adaptation stress model, we examined adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), self-esteem, and hope as vulnerability indicators and relationship status and length, positive and negative affect, and socioeconomic status (SES) as stressors to ascertain the risk for IPV. Women (N = 491, M = 37.15, standard deviation = 12.51) completed an online survey comprised of the Positive and Negative Affect Scale, Rosenberg's Self-esteem Scale, Snyder's Hope Scale, ACE questionnaire, Composite Abuse Scale Revised–Short Form, and demographic questions. Factor analysis identified four ACE factors of sexual abuse, physical or psychological abuse, witnessing domestic violence, and household dysfunction. A five-step hierarchical multiple regression identified that greater exposure to physical or psychological child abuse was associated with an increased risk of IPV (Step 2), B = 0.73 [0.16, 1.34]. Lower self-esteem, B = −0.30 [−0.47, −0.14] predicted IPV (Step 3). Age B = 0.07 [0.01, 0.13], negative affect, B = 0.39 [0.19, 0.59], and relationship length, B = −1.24 [−2.16, 0.41] were associated with a higher risk of IPV (Step 4). In Step 5, previous variables attenuated to non-significance while age, B = 0.07 [0.01, 0.13], negative affect, B = 0.39 [0.19, 0.59], and relationship length B = −1.25 [−2.16, 0.41] remained significant. While the key findings of this study were inconsistent with some commonly reported findings (e.g., ACEs, self-esteem, hope, relationship status, SES, age), these inconsistencies are important to highlight given the factorial approach to examining ACEs, the comprehensive analyses conducted, and our examination of these variables' direct relationship to IPV. The study was limited by its cross-sectional nature, higher prevalence of IPV victims, and not examining IPV sub-types. Similar studies need to be conducted for other relationship types and victimized individuals (e.g., same-sex relationships and male victims) to provide a complete picture of risk factors for IPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With rates of coercive control (CC) increasing, there is a need to ensure that intervention programs are underpinned by evidence-based research. Current interventions are scarce, with their efficacy rarely established. Most current interventions appear to rely on victims seeking support from formal sources/agencies, despite suggestions that victims are more likely to confide in people they know, such as their friends. Researchers suggest that a victim's friends may provide an effective source of support and intervention. The aim of this study was to fill the gap in the literature exploring whether the closeness of the relationship to the victim, bystander gender, and bystander concerns influenced attitudes toward intervening in CC situations. The study used an experimental design, whereby participants were randomly allocated to read a vignette depicting a CC scenario involving a friend, colleague, or stranger, and quantitative methods were used to examine bystanders' willingness and concerns about intervening. The sample was 340 Australian participants (229 female, 111 male), recruited from social media, namely community Facebook groups. The results indicated that friends were significantly more willing to intervene than colleagues or strangers, while strangers reported the highest concerns about intervening. Females reported significantly higher willingness to intervene than men despite also reporting higher concerns. Exploratory analysis of concerns about intervening revealed that the participants were most concerned about risk of harm and their beliefs in their ability to successfully intervene. These findings have implications for bystander intervention programs and campaigns, including offering a range of potential directions to enhance intervention program content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the well-documented link between child maltreatment (CM) and mental health, evidence suggests substantial variability in the post-traumatic sequelae of CM across cultures. The perceived acceptability of CM in one's community might moderate the association between CM and mental health, but little research has been conducted on it so far. This study examined how the perceived acceptability of CM may influence the relationship between CM experiences and post-traumatic symptoms in individuals from four different continents and if the pattern of associations is the same across countries. We recruited a sample of 478 adults from Cameroon (n = 111), Canada (n = 137), Japan (n = 108), and Germany (n = 122). We administered online questionnaires and performed multiple group moderation analyses for total CM, neglect, physical abuse, emotional maltreatment, sexual abuse, and exposure to domestic violence (DV). A significant positive main effect of CM on post-traumatic symptoms was found in the overall sample and in Cameroon; in Germany, only neglect and emotional maltreatment were positively associated to post-traumatic symptoms. Moderation effects were identified; the perceived acceptability of neglect in Cameroon and Germany and of exposure to DV in Cameroon had a dampening effect on the relationship between CM experiences and post-traumatic symptoms. Our findings confirm that CM experiences entail long-term post-traumatic sequelae that can vary across cultures and CM subtypes and further our understanding of this issue by showing that the perceived acceptability of CM may be an understudied moderator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment practices for measuring adverse life events (ALEs) are often characterized by considerable variability, which is associated with inconsistency and reproducibility issues when conducting research on children with ALE exposure. One aspect of assessment variability for caregiver report of children's ALE history that has received minimal attention is assessment format. To address this issue, the current study evaluated concordance between two main ALE assessment formats: interviews and questionnaires. This involved examining overall endorsement of ALEs and concordance among multiple characteristics of ALE exposure, including type, polyvictimization, frequency, severity, and age of onset. Fifty-eight caregivers (M age = 33.72; 60% Black; 55% below the federal poverty line) of preschool and school-age children were administered an ALE assessment in both a questionnaire and interview format across two sessions. The sum scores and concordance rates between format responses were compared based on ALE type, polyvictimization, frequency, severity, and age of onset of exposure. Results indicated that most total or sum scores were similar between formats, with the exception of ALE severity scores. However, there was most often low-to-moderate concordance across the 50 types of ALEs examined in the current study, suggesting that a different constellation of events comprised each sum or total score. This was also the case across all characteristics of the ALEs and most notably for the severity of ALE. Based on these findings, the format of assessment may be associated with inconsistent reporting of children's ALE exposure across multiple characteristics of ALE. Researchers may need to utilize multiple types of ALE assessments when relying on caregiver report of a child's ALEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyber dating abuse (CDA) concerns the use of digital technology to control, monitor, and hurt one's intimate partner. CDA can have profound detrimental outcomes, such as mental health problems. As such, it is important to identify intrapersonal factors that may explain these behaviors. Previous research suggests that one such factor is the personality cluster of Dark Triad traits (DTT), comprising Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy. Additionally, DTT and CDA perpetration have both been linked to poor self-control ability, but these relationships have not yet been tested together in one model. As such, the present study examines if individuals' poor self-control ability mediates the relationship between the DTT and CDA perpetration. To test these associations, we conducted a survey study among a representative sample of Belgian adults (n = 1,144; M age = 47.66 years; 51.3% female). Findings from correlation analyses revealed that all three DTT were individually associated with CDA perpetration, such that higher scores on these traits corresponded with more CDA perpetration. Additionally, pathway analyses from structural equation modeling revealed that individuals' poor self-control ability fully explained the relationship between Machiavellianism and narcissism and CDA perpetration, and partially explained the relationship between psychopathy and CDA perpetration. As our findings suggest that self-control plays an instrumental role in explaining why individuals control and monitor their partner via digital technology, prevention and intervention efforts should seek ways to improve individuals' self-control ability in situations that may trigger such harmful interpersonal behaviors, particularly among individuals who exhibit Dark Triad personality traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the present analyses are to examine the frequency, nature, and correlates of nonfatal gun use in incidents of conflict between adult children and their parents, to which police were summoned. A cross-sectional study design was used with all cases of domestic violence to which police were called between adult children and their parents, in Philadelphia, PA, in 2013 (N = 6,248). Data were drawn from forms required to be completed by police when responding to domestic violence calls for assistance. A series of multivariate logistic regression models were estimated. Of the 6,248 incidents, 5,486 involved no weapon, 522 involved a bodily weapon, 190 involved a non-gun external weapon, and 50 involved a gun. Guns were most often used to threaten victims (66%), with guns less often fired (6%) or used to pistol whip victims (4%). Compared to incidents involving a bodily weapon, when guns were involved, offenders were less likely to have pushed, grabbed, or punched the victim and victims were less likely to have visible injuries; however, offenders were more likely to have threatened victims and victims were more likely to be observed as frightened. Police officers intervened similarly to incidents involving guns vs. bodily weapons. This is the first study we are aware of to focus on nonfatal gun use between family members who are not intimate partners, with the results extending much of what is known regarding nonfatal gun use among intimate partners to nonfatal gun use among adult children and parents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcohol use ranks as one of the most prevalent health-risk behaviors among Taiwanese adolescents. Possible selves—personalized future-oriented cognitions about the self—are significant motivators of one's actions, which may potentially influence adolescent drinking behavior. This study aimed to estimate the content domain-specific possible selves and their associations with drinking behaviors among Taiwanese adolescents. A total of 225 Taiwanese seventh and eighth graders from a public junior high school were recruited. An anonymous self-reported questionnaire was used to collect data during two time-points at six-month intervals. Results showed that having a "physical appearance" related hoped-for possible self and a "friendship" related feared possible self was associated with adolescent alcohol use after six months. Whereas, having the "physical appearance" related hoped-for and feared possible selves were associated with alcohol problems, at both, baseline and six months later. Future studies could clarify the meaning behind "physical appearance" related possible selves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pilot randomized controlled trial tested the potential efficacy of a brief internet-based, passive psychoeducation intervention, Free From Abuse, in promoting healthy relationships among young adults. Participants aged 18 to 24 years were randomly assigned to an intervention treatment (n = 71) or a placebo control condition (n = 77). Participants in the treatment arm had a larger increase in recognition of abusive behavior and reduction in domestic violence myth acceptance scores than participants in the control arm postintervention and after one week. This study provides preliminary evidence that brief internet-based passive psychoeducation is potentially useful in promoting healthy relationships among young adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The study was carried out to assess the effect of zinc supplementation on changes in calcium homeostasis, and parathyroid gland, bone, and skeletal muscle histology in rats exposed to subchronic oral glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH, GOBARA®) toxicity. Methods: Sixty male Wistar rats in 6 equal groups (DW, Z, G1, G2, ZG1, ZG2) were used: DW and Z were given 2 mL/kg distilled water and 50 mg/kg of zinc chloride (2%), respectively; G1 and G2 received 187.5 mg/kg and 375 mg/kg of glyphosate (in GBH), respectively; ZG1 and ZG2 were pretreated with 50 mg/kg of zinc chloride before receiving glyphosate, 1 hour later, at 187.5 and 375 mg/kg, respectively. Treatments were by gavage once daily for 16 weeks. Serum calcium, vitamin D, and parathormone were estimated. Histopathological examination of parathyroid gland, femoral bone and biceps femoris muscle was done. Results: GBH exposure caused significant (P =.0038) decrease in serum calcium concentration in G1, significant (P =.0337) decrease in serum vitamin D concentration in G1, significant increases in parathormone in G1 (P =.0168) and G2 (P =.0079) compared to DW. Significant (P >.05) changes did not occur in the other parameters of G2 compared to DW. Dose-dependent effect in GBH exposure was not observed after comparing G1 and G2. Necrotic changes occurred in parathyroid gland cells, osteocytes, and muscle cells in G1 and G2. In ZG1 and ZG2, significant (P >.05) variations in the parameters were not observed and tissue lesions were absent. Conclusion: Subchronic GBH exposure impaired calcium homeostasis observed as hypocalcemia, hypovitaminemia D, and secondary hyperparathyroidism and caused tissue damage in parathyroid gland, bone, and muscle of rats and these were mitigated by zinc chloride pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]