Study Authors Research Articles

High‐dose propranolol decreases aggression in young people with autism

As many as two‐thirds of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience challenging symptoms of irritability, including aggression and self‐injury. The antipsychotics risperidone and aripiprazole are approved for the treatment of irritability associated with ASD; however, their adverse effects can compromise long‐term use in many patients. Based on longstanding case reports showing promising results for the beta‐blocker propranolol in reducing challenging symptoms in ASD, investigators conducted a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover trial to evaluate the feasibility of high‐dose propranolol for treating aggression in patients with ASD. The investigators recruited youths and young adults aged 12 to 30 with ASD and a history of severe and chronic aggression, self‐injury, and disruptive behaviors that interfere with daily activities. Participants were required to have had an inadequate trial of at least two psychotropic medications, including at least one antipsychotic. Dosing of propranolol started at 10 mg three times a day and could be increased until adequate therapeutic response was achieved, to a maximum dose of 200 mg three times a day. Most study visits were conducted via telehealth in order to minimize patient schedule disruption. The primary outcomes were change in scores on the Clinical Global Impression‐Improvement (CGI‐I) and Aberrant Behavior Checklist‐Community (ABC‐C) scales from baseline to study endpoint. Six participants with a mean age of 16 years were enrolled. The investigators found that propranolol resulted in mean reductions of 50% in scores on the CGI‐I and 37% in scores on the ABC‐C. Effect sizes were large for both measures: –0.74 for the CGI‐I and –0.64 for the ABC‐C. “As this was a feasibility pilot study, we had a small sample that limits the generalization of our results to a wider population, and therefore, until a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study with an adequate number of subjects is conducted, the clinical value of this report is limited,” the study's authors wrote. [London, E., et al. (2024). J Clin Psychopharmacol. https://doi.org/10.1097/JCP.0000000000001895]

A Study on Relationship between Supportive Parenting styles and emotional well-being and whether they are mediated by basic Psychological need Satisfaction

The study looked at how fundamental psychological need fulfillment mediates the association between emotional well-being and supportive parenting approaches (i.e., warmth, structure, and autonomy support). The article delves further into the topic, discussing how fundamental psychological needs dissatisfaction may buffer the relationship between emotional illness and disruptive parenting techniques such as rejection, disruption, and coercion. A total of 395 Bhagalpurian teenagers (49.5% male and 50.5% female) between the ages of 11 and 15 took part in the research. For this hypothesis testing, we turned to structural equation model (SEM) analysis. The study's results show that parental support styles are associated with higher levels of emotional well-being when basic psychological needs are satisfied, and that negative parenting styles are associated with lower levels of emotional well-being when basic psychological needs are frustrated (Chi-Square = 434.39; df = 220; p = 0.000; RMSEA = 0.05; CFI = 0.91; GFI = 0.91; SRMR = 0.05). Findings show that thwarting parenting style favorably affects fulfillment of fundamental psychological needs, which is rather interesting. The study's authors draw the conclusion that meeting adolescents' fundamental psychological needs is one way in which supportive parenting improves their health. Nevertheless, needs were nevertheless met despite parents' efforts to obstruct them. The discussion was on how the teenagers from Bhagalpur evaluated the method of resisting parenting.

La thérapie fonctionnelle cognitive dans la prise en charge de la lombalgie chronique non spécifique

IntroductionNon-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is a condition that accounts for almost one-third of patients treated by physical therapists. Although only one in ten low back pain patients suffers from NSCLBP, it represents up to 80 % of healthcare costs for this disease. NSCLBP is the leading cause of work absenteeism, and healthcare costs have tripled over the past 40 years. Many therapies and techniques are being developed and studied, including Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT), which provides a new approach based on a precise assessment and awareness of all dimensions of the condition.The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of CFT among physical therapists and to identify the determinants of its importance in their practice. MethodA literature review followed by a questionnaire administered to licensed physical therapists and physical therapy students. ResultsIn all, 80% of physical therapy students and 67.9% of licensed physical therapists surveyed were not familiar with CFT. Among the licensed physical therapists, more than 50% frequently use this therapy and find it effective in treating NSCLBP. Among the students, 93.1% were interested in studying this therapy as part of their initial training. The lack of training among physical therapists in this area and the importance of patient impact as a barrier to CFT may explain its limited use in practice. The main limitations of this therapy are described by the study's authors.

The process of social work supervision. A reflection on the five-year practice of certified social work supervision in Poland

Analysing the practice of the first five years of certified social work supervisors' activity, it is essential to note the main challenges encountered both by the process organisers and the supervisors themselves. This article presents experiences and recommendations related to organising supervision in social work. We focus on building supervisory relationships and supervision challenges in social welfare. The study's authors, presenting their experiences and reflections, also include the opinions of practitioners and supervisors from the field of social work.

Understanding unique employability skill sets of autistic individuals: A systematic review

AbstractIn recent years, several publications and media outlets have highlighted how the skills and interests of autistic individuals may benefit organizations. However, there is scant empirical research on the topic. The present study's authors conducted a systematic review to find which potential employability skills, strengths, and interests of autistic individuals available research has highlighted. Data extraction methods identified 51 papers related to skills in this population. The skill sets autistic individuals may possess and the research behind these findings were organized, evaluated, and summarized. Based on these findings, investigators discuss implications for employment counseling and future research.

Investigate the opinions of the teachers and students regarding the suitability of medical students to serve as the principal investigator - A systematic review

Determining a principal investigator's (PI) qualification could be complicated particularly for educational institutions. In the learning environment, it is difficult to provide students PI status. Several studies have examined the viability for student’s investigators. The purpose of this research was to discover how professors and students viewed medical students' eligibility for PIs. The institution create a data-based PI eligibility procedure was one of the secondary goals. Teachers and students at Alafia University's College of Medicine (COM) were polled using an investigation that was developed and verified by the study's authors. A total of 135 medical students, 53 academic members, including four administrators, answered. The responses percentages for instructors and students were more than fifty percent and 12%, respectively. Based on 62% of the instructors, medical students can't be PI eligible despite the control of an instructor. According to 77% of the students, they were unqualified to serve as the PI. The findings of the present investigation confirm the widespread university policy that prohibits medical students from acting as principal investigators.

A comprehensive study on the fire resistance properties of ultra-fine ceramic waste-filled high alkaline white cement paste composites for progressing towards sustainability

The most practical sustainable development options to safeguard the local ecology involve reducing the use of raw materials and guaranteeing proper recycling of the principal destroyed solid wastes. Preventing the creation of hazardous waste and the subsequent pollution that results from improper disposal is a top priority. Based on this, the study's authors recommend reusing the ultra-fine ceramic shards (CW). High-alkaline white cement (WC) has been partially replaced by ultra-fine CW because it is a cheaper, more abundant, and more lasting environmental material used in the production of trendy blended white cement pastes composites. In this context, we look at ultra-fine CW, a material that has been suggested for use as a hydraulic filler due to its high performance, physicomechanical qualities, and durability. XRF, XRD, FTIR, and SEM measurements are used to characterize the microstructure, thermal characteristics, and thermodynamics. Because of the effect of ultra-fine ceramic waste, the firing test reduces the mechanical strength by default, but with active filler, decreases slowly and increase its physicomechanical features and compressive strength compared to the control sample (WC), setting a new benchmark. The maximum amount of crystallization formed in the presence of ultra-fine ceramic waste in WC-matrix, resulting in a decrease in total porosity and early cracking. Together, the improved workability and energy-saving features of cement blends with ultra-fine ceramic waste, reflect their economic and environmental benefits, which may reduce building costs and boost the durability of the raw materials used in the mix.

Factors Influencing Efforts to Prevent DHF in the Community Health Center

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is an illness spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is infected with the dengue virus from the genus Flavivirus, family Flaviviridae. The research set out to identify what elements in the Working Area of the Sungai Guntung Public Health Center in the Kateman District of the Indragiri Hilir Regency of Riau were most influential in dengue prevention efforts. An analytical survey using a Cross Sectional Study design is used to conduct the quantitative study. All 19,271 adults living in the nine-village Sungai Guntung Health Center Working Area were included in the analysis. Up to 99 family heads were included in the Stratified Random Sample. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were employed to examine the data. Education, knowledge, attitudes, the role of health workers, water storage, and the presence of garbage were all found to be related to efforts to prevent DDB in the Working Area of the Sungai Guntung Health Center in the Kateman District of the Indragiri Hilir Regency of Riau. P = 0.000 0.025, 95% CI = 5.389-316.539, OR = 41.154; the most important factor is level of education. In order to avoid DDB in the Working Area of the Sungai Guntung Health Center in the Kateman District of the Indragiri Hilir Regency of Riau, the study's authors recommend focusing on education, knowledge, attitudes, the role of health professionals, water reservoirs, and the presence of rubbish.

Сontemporary Ukrainian cultural studies in the system of higher education

The article considers the essential aspects of introducing cultural studies into the Ukrainian higher education system. The authors analyze the significance of the cultural approach in the formation of modern society and the development of cultural consciousness. The article examines the main principles and methodological approaches underlying modern Ukrainian cultural studies. The study's authors highlight the role of Ukrainian cultural studies in training specialists in the field of culture and art. They focus on combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills in the educational process, mainly through internships, master classes, and practical classes in cultural disciplines. This research also highlights the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in cultural studies. In other words, it allows combining knowledge from various fields of science, such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, and others. Also, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the essence of the culture and cultural processes. The article also draws attention to the need to implement modern teaching methods, such as active learning, problem-based learning, and project-based learning, to increase the educational process's effectiveness in cultural studies. In this research, the authors point out the importance of studying the historical aspect of culture in Ukrainian cultural studies and the need to preserve and promote cultural heritage. They emphasize the importance of developing national culture and patriotic education for the younger generation. The article highlights the problems that arise in introducing cultural studies into the Ukrainian higher education system, particularly the insufficient number of qualified teachers and the instability of funding. The authors suggest ways to solve these problems and promote the further development of modern Ukrainian cultural studies in the higher education system.

Effects of Adding Intrathecal Epinephrine to Spinal Anesthesia on Anesthesia-Related Cesarean Delivery Outcomes: Should We Reconsider Its Use?

Intrathecal epinephrine is used to increase the duration of spinal anesthesia for amenable surgical procedures anticipated to require additional time; however, in the ambulatory setting, it is associated with a prolonged time to post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge. The current study's authors hypothesized that adding intrathecal epinephrine to spinal anesthesia for cesarean delivery would be associated with a dose-dependent prolonged post-anesthesia unit length of stay. A single-center, retrospective study of patients undergoing repeat cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia from 2011 to 2015 was conducted. Patients received spinal bupivacaine 12 mg, morphine 150 mcg, and fentanyl 15 mcg with no-epinephrine, 100 mcg, or 200 mcg of epinephrine. The primary outcome was recovery room length of stay. Secondary outcomes were surgical duration, intraoperative vasopressor use, perioperative opioids, and antiemetic use. Data were analyzed for 1,362 patients. Median recovery room stay was 123 min (interquartile range, 100 to 150) and was not different among groups. More women receiving epinephrine 200 mcg had ≥2 prior cesarean deliveries compared with no-epinephrine or 100 mcg. No significant differences in surgical duration or intraoperative opioids were identified among the groups. Median intraoperative vasopressor use was increased by 225 mcg of phenylephrine equivalents (99% CI, 25 mcg to 430 mcg) in the 100 mcg group and 250 mcg of phenylephrine equivalents in the 200 mcg group (99% CI, 75 mcg to 500 mcg) compared to no-epinephrine (P<0.001). Recovery room antiemetic and opioid analgesic administration were not different among groups. Based on the results of this study, the addition of intrathecal epinephrine for women undergoing cesarean delivery increases intraoperative vasopressor use but does not prolong PACU length of stay, reduce intraoperative opioids, or increase antiemetic requirements postoperatively. The current study also demonstrated that surgical duration times were not different among the no-epinephrine, 100 mcg, and 200 mcg epinephrine groups.

The official Greek version of the National Institutes of Health - Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies

Purpose: The aim of this study was the official translation into Greek of the “National Institutes of Health - Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies” (NIH-QATOCCs) proposed by the American National Institutes of Health. Materials - Method: Official permission for translating the original NIH-QATOCCsS questionnaire and its guidance was given by the American National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The adaptation of NIH-QATOCCsS into Greek followed Brislin's classic back-translation model, which included: (a) back-translation method, (b) bilingual technique, (c) committee approach, and (d) pretest procedure. Results: After completing all the required procedures, the final Greek version of the NIH-QATOCCsS was approved by the present study's authors. Conclusions: The NIH-QATOCCsS is a detailed tool, easy to use, with clear guidance, and its Greek translation is available for scientists and students writing in Greek, systematic reviews that include observational cohortcross-sectional studies. keywords : Observational study, Methodological quality, Assessment, Systematic review

Evaluating and improving real-world evidence with Targeted Learning

BackgroundThe Targeted Learning roadmap provides a systematic guide for generating and evaluating real-world evidence (RWE). From a regulatory perspective, RWE arises from diverse sources such as randomized controlled trials that make use of real-world data, observational studies, and other study designs. This paper illustrates a principled approach to assessing the validity and interpretability of RWE.MethodsWe applied the roadmap to a published observational study of the dose–response association between ritodrine hydrochloride and pulmonary edema among women pregnant with twins in Japan. The goal was to identify barriers to causal effect estimation beyond unmeasured confounding reported by the study's authors, and to explore potential options for overcoming the barriers that robustify results.ResultsFollowing the roadmap raised issues that led us to formulate alternative causal questions that produced more reliable, interpretable RWE. The process revealed a lack of information in the available data to identify a causal dose–response curve. However, under explicit assumptions the effect of treatment with any amount of ritodrine versus none, albeit a less ambitious parameter, can be estimated from data.ConclusionsBefore RWE can be used in support of clinical and regulatory decision-making, its quality and reliability must be systematically evaluated. The TL roadmap prescribes how to carry out a thorough, transparent, and realistic assessment of RWE. We recommend this approach be a routine part of any decision-making process.

Use of a discussion provoking board game for revealing privilege

The article discusses the use of a board game, Reality Check: The Game of Privilege, as a tool to promote dialogue and understanding of privilege among medical students and faculty. The game was played in groups of 5–6 participants, and each player assumed the role of a character with specific socioeconomic, sexual orientation, race, and gender identity. Debriefing sessions and anonymous surveys were conducted after each play session, and the findings were reviewed to identify themes and refine future play sessions. The results of the study showed that the game was effective in promoting discussion and reflection on the impact of privilege and bias on healthcare. The debriefing sessions and feedback from participants highlighted the complexity of privilege and circumstance and its impact on patients' care. The study's authors suggest that the game can be used to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system that meets the needs of all patients by recognizing and understanding privilege.

Analysis of tennis training opportunities in the system of Latvian sport education

Tennis, a sport that can be played at any age, has become very popular in Latvia, and its prestige and commercialization have promoted the development of the sport in Latvia as well. However, taking into consideration that the tennis infrastructure is still not sufficient in quantity, there are not many opportunities to play it in sports schools. The study's authors wanted to find out why public sports schools do not choose to include tennis in their range of sports sections. Currently, most young tennis players train in private tennis clubs. To clarify the situation, quantitative data surveys were conducted with representatives of sports schools, as well as qualitative interviews with specialists in the field of tennis. The results showed the impact of different aspects - the competence of coaches in the regions, infrastructure availability, and the funding model specifics. Based on the study's results, the authors develop recommendations that should be followed so that tennis is more present in state sports schools. In this way, the mass formation of the sport would be promoted. Thus, there is a higher probability of tending to a sport of increased achievement.

Combine Therapy of Gallic Acid and Allicin in Management of Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes, also known (DM) is a metabolic disorder with a high mortality and disability incidence. The development and activation of oxidative stress (OS) are crucial to the pathogenic development of DM. Pathophysiological evidence suggests that OS contributes to the onset and progression of DM through its association with hyperglycemia, resistance to insulin, and inflammation. It's worth noting that more and more studies are investigating the benefits of natural antioxidants for managing DM. Many different types of culinary and herbal plants contain the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds gallic acid (GA) and allicin, respectively. The synthesis of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) is inhibited, fat is stored less, blood sugar and weight are improved, and the body produces fewer AGEs, according to the study's authors. Inhibition of RAGEs and prevention of AGE activity following treatment with GA and allicin resulted in reduced oxidative stress and enhanced insulin secretion. The goals of this article are to (1) provide evidence that GA and allicin may be effective antihyperglycemic treatments for DM and its complications and (2) provide a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge regarding studies examining the role of oleic acid in this disease.

A QR Code Used for Personal Information Based On Multi-Layer Encryption System

Protecting and concealing sensitive data in the modern world is challenging. Due to insufficient protection and privacy, it is feasible for critical information to be fabricated. This led to a significant financial loss for someone. The intended recipient must be trusted with sensitive information and be able to independently authenticate the accuracy of the information by independently checking the specifics. There are several driving the rise in QR codes used for information transmission. Due to their enormous capacity for storing information, QR codes are vital for dissemination. However, most currently deployed QR code solutions employ insecure data formats and never employ encryption. Secure QR Code is data protection and data concealing available technology. The Quick Response (QR) code is widely used and accessible without extensive technical training. Now, the user data stored in a QR code is effectively public knowledge and occasionally even illegally used. To address the abovementioned issues, this study's authors propose a novel QR code encryption system. Using the image's mathematical processing method, we may apply the equivalence class principle to the ordered equations of the two-dimensional code, producing the desired cryptographic result. This method exploits the unique visual properties of the QR code. Only a QR code reader can decode the code's useful information, which is too complex for standard reading methods. It will be utilised to address issues in speedy business client data protection Security, commodity anticounterfeiting, and bicycle sharing QR codes.

Work-family Conflict and Psychological Stress among Nurses in Irbid Hospitals

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the extent to which the content of the basic first-grade mathematics textbook in Jordan complies with the standards of the National Council of teachers of mathematics (NCTM). The study's authors expect that it will help those responsible for creating mathematics curricula at all levels, and in the fundamental first grade in particular, by highlighting areas of strength and need.&#x0D; Method: The study sample consisted of a mathematics book for the first grade in Jordan, with its first and second parts, and two exercise books. An analysis instrument was designed; the validity and reliability of the instrument were ensured. The analysis process was carried out by monitoring the set of paragraphs, each of which includes one idea, and then calculating the number of ideas that represent one of the elements of the analysis, and calculating their repetitions and percentages in light of the sum of repetitions of the elements of the criterion.&#x0D; Results: The results of the study showed that the content of the first-grade mathematics textbook was the highest in data analysis and probability (0.00−79.31)% while it was the lowest in numbers and operations (0.00−18.69)%. The results also showed that the extent of the operations standards was the highest in problem-solving (0.00−76.92)% and the lowest was in communication (3.57−35.71)%.&#x0D; Conclusions: The study recommended the necessity of developing the book according to NCTM standards, and conducting studies to evaluate mathematics books for other classes in light of the current curricular development movement in Jordan.

Transverse myelitis following bivalent COVID‐19 booster vaccine and quadrivalent seasonal influenza vaccine

Transverse myelitis following bivalent <scp>COVID</scp>‐19 booster vaccine and quadrivalent seasonal influenza vaccine

Comment on “Review of methods of spatio-temporal evaluation of rainfall erosivity and their correct application” by Brychta et al. (2022), Catena 217, 106454

The review study conducted by Brychta et al. (2022) is very informative. It provides an excellent overview of the approaches that can be used for the spatio-temporal assessment of rainfall erosivity. The authors also emphasized the importance of applying regression equations to the physio-geographic conditions for which they were developed. However, the study's authors incorrectly cited the source of one of the empirical equations shown in Table 1. In addition, only a portion of the original equations was presented. Consequently, applying this particular equation with insufficient information could result in estimations of rainfall erosivity that are erroneous or biased. Hence, researchers should always double-check the applied equations in the original sources.

Are software projects evaluated using software teams’ success criteria? A systematic literature review

As diverse as software project stakeholders are, so are their project needs and interests. Furthermore, the criteria to measure project success are based on the stakeholder groups’ various needs. It is on the basis of these diverse measurement criteria that project success has become an elusive moving target. Despite this, the measurement and achievement of project success remains a critical milestone in project management for the satisfaction of stakeholders, including software project teams (SPTs). Several research studies have reported project success or failure from various stakeholders’ perspective. However, recent studies have projected SPTs as the most neglected key stakeholder group by software project managers and researchers in the project management field. Given this backdrop, conducting a systematic literature review (SLR) research study to determine if there are empirical studies that have evaluated software project success from SPTs’ perspective would be of interest to many in the field. According to the study's authors there is no study that has been conducted to determine this. The study found one (1) paper, which evaluated a project based on the SPTs’ success criteria, thus showing a research gap and indicating the neglect of this group of stakeholders when it comes to establishing whether software projects meet their needs or not. This study recommends that empirical studies be conducted to close this research gap.