Primary Author Research Articles

Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses for the Treatment of Myopia Progression in Children: A Report by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

To review the published literature assessing the efficacy of multifocal soft contact lenses for the treatment of myopia progression in children 18 years of age and younger. A literature search of the PubMed database was conducted last in March 2024 and was limited to articles published in English without date restrictions. The search yielded 76 articles, which were reviewed by the primary author in abstract form, and 28 articles were selected for full-text review. Twelve articles were deemed to have met the inclusion criteria and were assigned a level of evidence rating by the panel methodologist. Eleven studies were rated level I and 1 study was rated level II. All studies showed less myopic progression, with changes in spherical equivalent (SE) ranging from 0.22 to 0.81 diopters (D) for multifocal soft contact lenses compared with 0.50 to 1.45 D in control groups who used single-vision spectacles or single-vision contact lenses over the course of at least 1 year. Additionally, axial elongation was less in the multifocal soft contact lens group compared with control groups, with a change in axial length (AL) of 0.05 to 0.39 mm in treatment groups compared with 0.17 to 0.67 mm in control groups with at least 1 year of follow-up. The difference in change between the groups was clinically modest and statistically significant in 11 studies for SE and in all 12 studies for AL. No serious adverse events were reported in any of the studies. Level 1 evidence supports slower myopia progression and AL elongation in children who used multifocal soft contact lenses compared with spectacles or single-vision contact lenses over at least 1 year of follow-up. However, few data are available on optimal treatment duration, the progression over longer periods, or progression after discontinuation of the multifocal contact lenses. Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.

Conceptual Model of Sepsis as a Dysregulated Host Response: Depicting Directionality of Immunologic and Metabolic Dysregulation.

Background Mortality from Sepsis continues to remain high in hospitalized patients worldwide. Previously, the conceptual model of sepsis was based on the systemic inflammatory immune response syndrome, an adaptive model. In 2016, a new definition of sepsis was proposed as a dysregulated host response to infection, however until now, no model has been proposed elucidating what immunologic mechanisms are dysregulated. Aim We sought to propose a new model of sepsis to elucidate evidence-based immunologic and metabolic mechanisms which are dysregulated in sepsis. Methods Evidence in the literature comparing and contrasting sepsis before and after the 2016 consensus definition of sepsis was reviewed for themes. Themes from research published post 2016, were described connecting immunologic and metabolic mechanisms in sepsis. This information further informed earlier research that has been published by the primary author. Results A new conceptual model of sepsis was developed to elucidate the current definition of sepsis as a dysregulated host response, incorporating themes uncovered in sepsis research post 2016. Conclusion The model proposed here supports clinicians in applying the current definition of sepsis to a physiological model. This can benefit clinicians by offering new ways of recognizing sepsis, and researchers by recommending a physiologic model to advance sepsis research. Keywords: Sepsis, sepsis model, immunologic dysregulation, metabolic dysregulation

Serve Dynamics: Applying a Bibliometric Approach in the Kinetics and Kinematics Analysis for Flat and Topspin Serves in Tennis

Objectives. The study aimed to completely examine the existing research on the investigation of kinetics and kinematics analysis for flat and topspin serves in tennis, with a special focus on improving performance and reducing injury risks for players. Material and Methods. In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the data, Scopus searched three variables in each record: (1) the author’s name, (2) the journal name in which the paper was published, and (3) the total number of citations. Bibliometric analysis was used as part of the analysis. To gain a thorough and accurate comprehension, the data was analyzed and interpreted using a variety of data triangulation techniques. Building distance-based co-occurrence networks for bibliometric analysis and synthesis was carried out using the VOS viewer software. The classification and grouping of the terms derived from titles, abstracts, and keywords were carried out based on their degree of interconnectedness. The terms “Serve Dynamics in Tennis”, “Kinetic Analysis in Tennis serve”, “Kinematic Analysis in Tennis serve”, and “Flat and Topspin serve in Tennis” are frequently used in the study, although their meanings are generally interpreted differently. The search yielded 125 papers and 2807 citations, which were used in the study conducted from 2001 to 2024. Results. The study’s findings revealed the primary authors, countries, and subject areas that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of research patterns, influential studies, authorship dynamics, thematic clusters, and international collaborations in the analysis of the kinetics and kinematics for flat and topspin serves in tennis. Conclusions. The study concludes by consolidating current information and identifying potential avenues for broadening the interdisciplinary scope of tennis serve research.

Civil wind bands beyond music education: a scoping review (2010-2021)

The aim of the present study is to provide a comprehensive scoping review focused on the educational effects of active music-making participation in wind bands. This review combines mapping studies to identify the primary sources, authors, institutions, and types of evidence available in wind band research and a literature review to identify the key concepts underpinning this research domain. Based on peer-review journal literature published between 2010 and 2021, a total of 712 records were examined, resulting in 459 papers screened and 84 studies included in the analysis. Findings indicate that, in the past decade, the essential contribution to research about active music-making participation in wind bands came from Western English-speaking academic institutions based in the United States of America, Australia, the United Kingdom and Canada. The research’s relevant focus was on the purposes of music education and the psychosocial and health effects of participation. Furthermore, the psychosocial effects encompassed a comprehensive set of themes, such as social bonding, community music participation, emotional well-being, and individual quality of life. Nevertheless, all these topics are closely linked to the single overarching expression of the quality of life. Other than music education, educational effects were not at the heart of the last decade of wind band research. A few gaps in the literature exist, including a lack of research concerning the educational benefits of informal and intergenerational environments of wind band practices. Equally important is the lack of research on the impacts of wind band activities on social cohesion or the inclusive intercultural development of their local communities. Lastly, there is a significant opportunity to provide up-to-date insights into the educational potential of non-school contexts and the impacts of wind band activities on supporting their places’ cultural ecology.

Antibiotics for surgical site infections in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) for patients undergoing orthognathic surgery of any type, which evaluated surgical site infections (SSI) in either: long-term (at least 2 days) post-surgical antibiotic dosing versus short term (one day) post-surgical dosing for the same drug; or Orthognathic surgery patients administered a post-surgical single-day antibiotic versus a singular pre-operative dosing of any antibiotic in the post-surgical phase. Singe-arm studies, retrospective studies, unpublished data, studies which were not peer-reviewed, editorials and trials not dealing with patients undergoing orthognathic surgery specifically were not included. Data for the publication year, primary author name, location of the study, antibiotic type, antibiotic protocol with its type, dosing and timing, sample size, protocol of the control group, male gender, age, diagnosis and rates of SSIs were extracted from the included studies. Pooled rates of SSIs were utilized to produce risk ratio (RR). A total of eleven RCTs met the inclusion criteria. As per the meta-analysis, post-orthognathic surgery SSI risk was reduced significantly as a result of long-term prophylactic antibiotic usage when compared to short-term utilization. Further, the meta-analysis demonstrated that there was a significant reduction of SSI risk in patients on a single day prophylactic antibiotic regimen in comparison to those on a single preoperative antibiotic dose. The study observed that long-term (2-7 days) prophylactic antibiotics reduce SSI risk when compared to antibiotic administration over a single day. In turn, it was also found that the latter was of greater benefit over a pre-operative single antibiotic dosage.

Through the looking glass; midwifery students' experience of ethical issues: A feminist explanatory case study

BackgroundThe ethical component in midwifery education is governed by international professional values, codes, and ethical principles. The aim of midwifery education is to encourage students to develop a lifelong commitment to ethical practice within their midwifery role and scope. However, little evidence is available on the experiences of midwifery students and how they navigate ethical issues in maternity systems. AimTo present a case study from a midwifery students' perspective that demonstrates observed ethical issues and to provide analysis of the ethical issues identified. DesignA Single explanatory case study design with a feminist lens applied. Explanatory case studies present the ‘how and why’ of a phenomenon and contributes to understanding phenomena in a holistic and real-life context. SettingThis project was set at a West Australian university from which pre-registration midwifery courses are delivered. ParticipantsA solitary case study is presented from a midwifery students' clinical placement. MethodsEthics were approved 2023-04805. Edith Cowan University HREC. The source of data for this case study was direct observation by the primary author (Priya, 2021) and the Joanna Briggs Methods for Case study reporting guide followed. Thematic analysis with a feminist lens was applied to the data. ResultsThree themes were generated ‘Through the looking glass; observing ethical issues’; ‘Whose body Is It? The Erosion of Maternal Consent’ and ‘Relational care versus defensive practice’. These themes explain the antecedents and consequences of the ethical issues identified by the midwifery student, the findings are supported by ethical theory and midwifery philosophy to highlight some of the underlying causes that contribute to ethical issues. ConclusionMidwifery students experience ethical distress when they observe ethical issues and are powerless to support birth people in a way that aligns with midwifery philosophy of relational, woman-centred care. Further research is required to better understand how midwifery students may be better supported to foster ethical care.

Keep the Influencers! Exploring How Sacrifice Enhances “Creator Self-Identity” and Providing Practical Recommendations by the Marketing Mix: An Exploratory Study

This study aims to assist social media platforms that rely on user-generated content in identifying effective strategies to motivate and retain high-quality influencers (content creators). The authors employed “participant observation” and “semi-structured in-depth interviews.” Firstly, the primary author engaged in self-media management for nearly 7 years, experiencing and exploring various aspects of influencers’ live as a content creator. Through detailed note-taking and documentation, valuable insider perspectives were provided. Secondly, preliminary interviews with 10 content creators who met the study’s criteria were conducted, and five most representative influencers were selected for further “semi-structured in-depth interviews,” which were recorded and videotaped. The authors compiled all research data, coded it, and analyzed it using “thematic analysis.” The study found that “creator self-identity” constructed during social media content creation helps influencers (content creators) overcome challenges and sustain their efforts. Three methods to strengthen “creator self-identity” were identified: (1) sacrifice, (2) sense-making positive feedback, and (3) identity community interaction. The theoretical contribution of this study lies in the perspective that “moderate self-sacrifice can, in turn, reinforce creators’ self-identity,” enriching existing literature. In terms of practical contributions, the study applied the “marketing mix (6P)” framework with the findings to provide systematic, applicable recommendations for social media platform managers. Finally, the study’s originality and deep insider perspective on the influencer community make it a noteworthy and significant contribution to the field.

Campylobacter spp. in men who have sex with men: A systematic review.

Campylobacter spp. has been reported to be a sexually transmissible enteric infection in men who have sex with men (MSM) since the 1980s causing an acute severe diarrhoeal illness and rarely an acute demyelinating polyneuropathy (Guillain-Barré syndrome). The aim of this review was to explore the factors seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp. We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines by searching 7 bibliographical databases in August 2024 for manuscripts in English. Initial screening was conducted by a primary author and then two authors conducted independent full-text reviews to determine the final eligible manuscripts. We only included manuscripts which explored factors seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp.. Two authors independently used the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools to assess risk for bias. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023464803). 25 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria that included 265 MSM with Campylobacter spp.. This review has highlighted demographic factors (living with HIV, living in urban MSM districts, HIV negative MSM using HIV-PrEP), biological factors (antimicrobial resistant Campylobacter spp., having a concurrent or previous sexually transmitted infection [Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Herpes simplex virus, Hepatitis C, Mpox] current/previous enteric infection including non-pathogenic parasites [Shigella spp., Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba histolytica, Salmonella spp., Entamoeba hartmanii, Entamoeba coli, Endolimax nana, Iodamoeba butchlii]) and behavioural factors (condomless receptive anal sex, oral-anal sex, oral genital sex, multiple/new sexual partners, using sex on premises venues and the internet to meet sexual partners) seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp. This review has highlighted some important demographic, biological and behavioural risk factors seen in MSM with Campylobacter spp.. These data can be used to inform future public health interventions and clinical guidelines.

Psychological well-being and emotional intelligence in undergraduate nursing students as predictors of academic success

BackgroundAcademic performance is influenced by a complex interplay of multiple factors whose relationships often do not follow straightforward patterns. Despite extensive research, understanding of these dynamics remains inconclusive. In particular, several studies highlight that higher emotional intelligence is associated with better academic outcomes and that people with elevated levels of psychological well-being also tend to achieve higher grades. ObjectiveThis study examines the associations between emotional intelligence, psychological well-being and academic performance among undergraduate nursing students. Specifically, it seeks to deepen our understanding of how emotional intelligence affects academic achievement, with psychological well-being potentially serving as a mediator. DesignA cross-sectional correlational design was employed. SettingsThe study involved a convenience sample of undergraduate nursing students from various degree programmes affiliated with the primary author. Participants394 undergraduate nursing students participated in the study, 249 identified as female and 145 as male. MethodsParticipants completed a quantitative survey during class hours, providing data on demographics, academic average scores and self-report measures of perceived emotional intelligence and psychological well-being. Data were evaluated using Pearson's correlations and serial multiple mediation analyses. ResultsThe findings revealed significant positive relationships between emotional intelligence, psychological well-being and academic performance. Serial mediation assessments indicated that dimensions of emotional intelligence influence academic performance both directly and indirectly through psychological well-being. Specifically, flourishing partially mediated the relationship between emotional intelligence and academic performance, directly influencing academic outcomes. ConclusionsThis study underscores the critical role of emotional management skills in academic performance, with psychological well-being acting as a partial mediator in this relationship. Consequently, undergraduate nursing students with enhanced emotional management abilities and higher levels of psychological well-being are likely to achieve better academic outcomes.

BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS: DEVELOPMENT AND DYNAMICS OF PUBLIC SERVICE RESEARCH FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

This study aims to present a bibliometric analysis of the research development on public services for disabilities from 2015 to 2023. The study utilizes data from the Scopus database using the keyword "Public services for disabilities" to identify and analyze relevant journal articles, conference proceedings, and books. The search method involves using these keywords in the title, abstract, and keywords of articles. Collected data includes the annual publication count, document types (journal articles, conference proceedings, books), influential primary authors, patterns of co-authorship among authors, and international collaboration among research institutions. Results of the analysis encompass trends in publications in this field, predominant document types, influential primary authors, and patterns of author collaboration. Key findings indicate a significant increase in journal article publications throughout the period, with specific attention to health, policy, technology, and social support aspects for individuals with disabilities. The analysis also highlights the development of specific topics receiving greater attention from researchers. This study provides insights into research dynamics in this field and identifies areas needing further attention to enhance inclusivity and quality of life for individuals with disabilities globally.

A Novel Hybrid Injectable for Soft-tissue Augmentation: Analysis of Data and Practical Experience

Background: HA/CaHa (HArmonyCa, Allergan Aesthetics, an AbbVie Company) is a hybrid injectable filler developed for aesthetic purposes that contains calcium hydroxyapatite microspheres suspended in a hyaluronic acid gel. This review describes preclinical and clinical data, recommendations for use based on the primary author’s clinical experience, and case studies that illustrate implementation of product use recommendations and patient outcomes. Methods: Preclinical data on the lift capacity and tissue integration of the HA/CaHa hybrid injectable and clinical data on its safety, efficacy, and real-world use were extracted from poster presentations, published literature, manufacturer instructions for use, and proprietary data files. Case studies were presented based on clinical experience. Results: The HA component of HA/CaHa provides an immediate and noticeable filling and lifting effect, whereas CaHa microspheres result in neocollagenesis. In preclinical studies, HA/CaHa demonstrated higher lift capacity (P < 0.05) and faster tissue integration than a CaHa filler and led to collagen I gene and protein expression. Clinical studies showed clinical safety and effectiveness with high patient satisfaction. The most common adverse event was injection-site response. Clinician recommendations for achieving desired aesthetic results while minimizing or preventing adverse events are reviewed, including patient selection and assessment, treatment approaches based on face shape, injection technique, and postprocedure care. Conclusion: The novel hybrid injectable consisting of HA with incorporated CaHa microspheres in a single marketed product may help achieve aesthetic goals by immediately restoring volume and potentially improving skin architecture and soft-tissue quality over time.

Conducting mixed methods research with women in a forensic mental health setting: A reflexive account from a nurse as researcher.

To describe a reflexive account of a mental health nurse as researcher undertaking a mixed methods study as part of a doctoral degree, with women in a secure forensic hospital. A discursive paper that draws upon the primary author's experience of dual roles as a mental health nurse and a novice researcher, and relevant literature pertaining to positionality and reflexivity in the context of conducting mixed methods research. A mixed methods study was conducted within a secure forensic hospital in Australia, to identify factors associated with the frequency and duration of seclusion for women and, to explore their experiences of seclusion. Notes and a reflective diary were used to demonstrate the reflexive approach and strategies used throughout the study design and data collection stages of the research. Women in the secure forensic hospital setting often have complex histories and experiences and are considered a vulnerable group, which can add additional challenges when undertaking research with this population. As a doctoral student with clinical experience in mental health undertaking research in the forensic hospital setting with women, positionality and the connection with reflexivity requires exploration to understand self and the influence on research. This understanding along with identified strategies to enhance reflexivity, supports the management of the dual nurse as researcher roles to enhance all stages of the research process. Doctoral nursing candidates undertaking clinical research in their area of clinical practice and at the location of previous employment, may experience challenges in relation to identity and the dichotomy of roles. Further challenges can be posed when research involves complex populations and/or controversial practices. Support to balance role conflict and maintain reflexivity is critical to understanding the role of self in research and to enhance credibility. Women are a complex, yet minority population in forensic mental health settings, however the numbers of women being admitted to services is increasing. Future research may consider the use of the strategies explored here to enhance the reflexive process, and support future researchers in this field to conduct research that aims to support an often-misheard population to better support health outcomes. There was no patient or public contribution to this paper, however the study in which this paper is based on, is grounded in the experience of patients (women).

Women and men in library and information science scholarship: Authorship trends from 2003 to 2021

Library and information science (LIS) has long consisted of more women than men, at least in sheer numbers of library employees, but men are the primary authors of library literature. This study explores LIS literature published between 2003 and 2021 to identify if there are differences in the publishing patterns of women and men. The authors used content analysis to code the entire sample to identify overall subject trends after authors were categorized as women or men by mainly automated methods, using two R packages, genderize and ssa. The results show that there are overall inequities when compared to the profession as whole between the publishing rates of women and men in LIS, as well as differences in publication patterns by subjects and within specific journals. Shifts in subjects over the period under investigation did not increase the percentage of women publishing in the selected LIS journals. The authors conclude more research needs to be conducted to determine the cause of inequities in publishing not just among women and men, but all underrepresented voices in LIS.

Giardia duodenalis in men who have sex with men: a systematic review

ObjectiveGiardia duodenalis causes enteritis and malabsorption and can be sexually transmissible in men who have sex with men (MSM). The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with...

Antimicrobial treatment for human intestinal spirochaetosis: a systematic review

IntroductionThe antimicrobial treatment options for patients with intestinal spirochaetosis (caused by Brachyspira pilosicoli and Brachyspira aalborgi) are not well defined. We aimed to systematically review the literature to explore antimicrobial...

BERTOLOTTI'S SYNDROME: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

IntroductionLumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are increasingly recognized as a common anatomical variant and is the most common congenital anomaly of the lumbosacral spine. Patients can have symptomatic LSTV, known as Bertolotti's Syndrome, where transitional anatomy can cause back, L5 distribution leg, hip, and groin pain. We propose an outline for diagnosis and treatment of Bertolotti's Syndrome.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed over 500 patients presenting to the primary author with low back, buttock, hip, groin and/or leg pain from April 2009 through April 2024. Patients with radiographic findings of an LSTV and clinical presentation underwent diagnostic injections to confirm diagnosis of Bertolotti's syndrome. Treatment was determined based on patient's LSTV classification. 157 patients with confirmed Bertolotti's syndrome underwent surgical treatment.ResultsOver 500 patients presented with an appropriate clinical presentation and radiographic findings of an LSTV. Diagnostic injections were targeted into the transitional anatomy confirming the LSTV as the primary pain generator to make the diagnosis of Bertolotti's syndrome. The decision in the type of surgical intervention, resection or fusion, was made based on patient's LSTV anatomy. 157 patients with confirmed Bertolotti's Syndrome underwent surgical treatment (121 fusions (77%), 36 resections (23%)). The classification system and surgical outcomes, in part, have been previously published in World Neurosurgery.ConclusionWe have outlined the best practice of diagnosis and treatment selection for Bertolotti's syndrome. We have shown significant improvement in outcomes based on this method. We hope to aid in both patient education and provide an outline on how clinicians can become knowledgeable on Bertolotti's syndrome.Conflicts of interestNo conflicts of interestSources of fundingNo funding obtained

Exploring Interoception with Adults: Occupational Therapy Practitioner Knowledge, Perceptions, and Practice Patterns

Abstract Date Presented 03/22/24 A study exploring knowledge, perception, and practice patterns indicated most OTP’s working with adults are not routinely addressing interoception awareness in practice. Yet, OTPs perceived intervention was effective treatment (63%). Primary Author and Speaker: Irma Jeanette Pereira-Hudson Additional Authors and Speakers: Vera Gallagher, Jamie Provisor Contributing Authors: Victor M Camacho, Catherine Tsang-Wu, Heidi Robertson

Remote Functional-Based Intervention for Children With Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Pilot Study

Abstract Date Presented 03/22/24 We present a practical infrastructure for establishing remote OT intervention, in addition to the existing in-person services, for the large population of children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Primary Author and Speaker: Yafit Gilboa Additional Authors and Speakers: Miri Tal-Saban Contributing Authors: Noam Arieli-Ovadia, Stav Ben Zagmi-Averbuch

Understanding Home Safety Concerns for Adolescents With Brain Injuries: An Evaluation of Hazards, Risks, & Harms

Abstract Date Presented 03/23/24 Adolescents with acquired brain injury (ABI) are at risk for additional injury, but little is known about specific home safety hazards. This research examines stakeholder perceptions of pre- and self-identified home safety hazards, risks, and harms for this population. Primary Author and Speaker: Sarah E. Anderson Contributing Authors: Taylor Stamper, Sarah Pierce, Jennifer P. Lundine, Carmen DiGiovine, Emily Patterson, Scott Swearingen, Lauren Wengerd, Amy Darragh

Investigating the Role of OT in Postpartum Care & the Impact on Maternal Psychosocial Well-Being

Abstract Date Presented 03/21/24 There is a lack of postpartum care available for new mothers, leaving them at risk for a variety of mental and physical complications. This study sought to identify OT’s role in improving maternal health throughout the peripartum experience. Primary Author and Speaker: Catherine Canavan Additional Authors and Speakers: Corwin Sutherin, Marissa Delp, Hailey Fletcher, Elisabeth Dey, Karlee Rinehart, Emily Spencer