bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distal Kaplan fibers and anterolateral ligament injuries are associated with greater intra‐articular internal tibial rotation in ACL‐deficient knees based on magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Farinelli Luca , Meena Amit , Sonnery‐Cottet Bertrand , Vieira Thais Dutra , Pioger Charles , Tapasvi Sachin , Abermann Elisabeth , Hoser Christian , Fink Christian
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to assess the internal rotation of the tibia on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in a series of consecutive athletes with Anterior cruciate Ligament (ACL) tears.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data was performed to include all consecutive patients who had undergone primary ACL reconstruction between January 2022 and June 2022. The angle between surgical epicondylar axes (SEA) of the knee and posterior tibial condyles (PTC) was measured. A negative value was defined as internal torsion. KFs and ALL injuries were reported. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was performed to examine the independent associations between SEA‐PTC angle and injuries of KFs and ALL adjusted for physical variables (age, gender and body mass index [BMI]). Statistical significance was set at a p‐value of < 0.05.

Results

A total of 83 eligible patients were included. The result of multiple linear regression analysis showed that internal tibial rotation was associated with KFs and ALL injuries. The estimated average of SEA‐PTC angle in relation to ALL injuries controlling the other variables was ‐5.49 [95%CI ‐6.79 – (‐4.18)] versus ‐2.99 [95%CI ‐4.55 – (‐1.44)] without ALL injuries. On the other hand, the estimated average of SEA‐PTC angle in relation to KFs lesions controlling the other variables was ‐5.73 [95%CI ‐7.04 – (‐4.43)] versus ‐2.75 [95%CI ‐4.31 – (‐1.18)] without KFs injuries.

Conclusions

KFs and ALL injuries were associated with an increased intra‐articular internal tibial rotation in ACL‐deficient knees. The measurement of femorotibial rotation on axial MRI could be useful to detect indirect signs of anterolateral complex (ALC) injuries.
Influence of light absorption rate on the astaxanthin production by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis during nitrogen starvation
Authors: Samhat Khadija , Kazbar Antoinette , Takache Hosni , Ismail Ali , Pruvost Jeremy
Published: November 2023

Large amounts of astaxanthin (about 4% DW) can be produced under nitrogen starvation of Haematococcus pluvialis in photobioreactors (PBRs) exposed to high light conditions to induce a light stress. However, in PBR, the large biomass concentration usually achieved leads to strong light attenuation conditions, which makes complex the analysis of this “light stress”. This study aims to elucidate the role of light transfer in astaxanthin cell content and productivity from the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis during nitrogen starvation. Haematococcus pluvialis was cultivated in a flat-panel PBR in a batch mode with sudden nitrogen starvation conditions and an incident photon flux density (PFD) of 250 µmolhν m−2 s−1. Different initial biomass concentrations ($${C}_{{x}_{0}}$$

C

x
0

) were evaluated, 0.21, 0.52, 1.39 and 2.21 kg m−3. As a result, spectral mass absorption cross-sections of Haematococcus pluvialis were measured at different times during nitrogen starvation, and were used to relate the mean rate of photon absorption (MRPA) to the astaxanthin productivity. A minimum initial MRPA of 7000 ± 500 µmolhν kgx−1 s−1 was found necessary to trigger large accumulation of astaxanthin in Haematococcus pluvialis cells (up to 3.21% DW) during nitrogen starvation conditions. The results also demonstrated the link between the MRPA and the daily astaxanthin productivity of Haematococcus pluvialis cultures, introducing then the MRPA as a physical quantity of interest for a rational optimization of the light culture conditions in PBRs.

Graphical Abstract
Factors affecting the quality and effectiveness of student teachers during their practicum experiences: the case of some selected colleges in Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Galana Hika Negash , Degago Adinew Tadesse , Tsegaye Alemayehu Getachew , Endashaw Abera Admasu
Published: November 2023

In this study, an attempt was made to investigate the constraints encountered by student teachers during their practicum experiences at some selected colleges in Oromia, Ethiopia. Adopting a convergent mixed research design, a questionnaire was distributed to student teachers, and a semi-structured interview was conducted with supervisors and mentors. The data found from questionnaire were analyzed using a descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and One-Way ANOVA. Besides, the interview results were analyzed using content analysis method. In the findings, factors such as mentors’ lack of continuous follow up and support, interest to share experience, and friendliness were identified. In addition, follow up and support were not continuously provided by supervisors, and there was no coordination between supervisors and mentors. Further, Colleges engage large numbers of candidates to one school, allot many student teachers for one academic supervisor, opportunity given for practice was inadequate and there was lack of necessary facilities in the cooperating schools. Hence, it can be concluded that there were limitations from the side of mentors, supervisors, colleges and cooperating schools on playing their roles in teaching practice. Therefore, based on the findings of the study and the drawn conclusions; mentors and supervisors of the practicum should make continuous follow up and provide immediate feedback for their student teachers. In addition, they should collaborate while evaluating and equipping their student teachers with all necessary things. Besides, colleges should have good rapport with cooperating schools, try to fulfill necessary facilities, and strengthen to make them effectively produce qualified students. They should work on how to mitigate the number of student teachers with the number of supervisors and schools. Finally, cooperating schools should learn from spontaneous limitations and go further to fulfill their needs.
Pulmonary abnormality screening on chest x-rays from different machine specifications: a generalized AI-based image manipulation pipeline
Authors: Shin Heejun , Kim Taehee , Park Juhyung , Raj Hruthvik , Jabbar Muhammad Shahid , Abebaw Zeleke Desalegn , Lee Jongho , Van Cong Cung , Kim Hyungjin , Shin Dongmyung
Published: November 2023

Background

Chest x-ray is commonly used for pulmonary abnormality screening. However, since the image characteristics of x-rays highly depend on the machine specifications, an artificial intelligence (AI) model developed for specific equipment usually fails when clinically applied to various machines. To overcome this problem, we propose an image manipulation pipeline.

Methods

A total of 15,010 chest x-rays from systems with different generators/detectors were retrospectively collected from five institutions from May 2020 to February 2021. We developed an AI model to classify pulmonary abnormalities using x-rays from a single system. Then, we externally tested its performance on chest x-rays from various machine specifications. We compared the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) of AI models developed using conventional image processing pipelines (histogram equalization [HE], contrast-limited histogram equalization [CLAHE], and unsharp masking [UM] with common data augmentations) with that of the proposed manipulation pipeline (XM-pipeline).

Results

The XM-pipeline model showed the highest performance for all the datasets of different machine specifications, such as chest x-rays acquired from a computed radiography system (n = 356, AUC 0.944 for XM-pipeline versus 0.917 for HE, 0.705 for CLAHE, 0.544 for UM, p$$\le$$
≤
0.001, for all) and from a mobile x-ray generator (n = 204, AUC 0.949 for XM-pipeline versus 0.933 for HE, p = 0.042, 0.932 for CLAHE (p = 0.009), 0.925 for UM (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Applying the XM-pipeline to AI training increased the diagnostic performance of the AI model on the chest x-rays of different machine configurations.

Relevance statement

The proposed training pipeline would successfully promote a wide application of the AI model for abnormality screening when chest x-rays are acquired using various x-ray machines.

Key points

• AI models developed using x-rays of a specific machine suffer from generalization.

• We proposed a new image processing pipeline to address the generalization problem.

• AI models were tested using multicenter external x-ray datasets of various machines.

• AI with our pipeline achieved the highest diagnostic performance than conventional methods.

Graphical Abstract
Relationship between vitamin D and coronary artery disease in Egyptian patients
Authors: Algowhary Magdy , Farouk Ahmed , El-Deek Heba E. M. , Hosny Ghada , Ahmed Ahmed , Abdelzaher Lobna A. , Saleem Tahia H.
Published: November 2023

Background

Previous studies have reported conflicting results about the association of vitamin D (VD) level with coronary artery disease (CAD). We aimed to study the association of VD with atherosclerotic CAD in Egyptian individuals.

Results

We prospectively enrolled 188 consecutive CAD patients with a median age of 55(50–62) years; 151(80.3%) were male. All patients were diagnosed by cardiac catheterization and were compared with 131 healthy controls. VD levels were measured in serum samples of all participants. Compared to controls, CAD patients had a significantly lower median VD level, 14.65 (9.25–21.45) versus 42.0 (32.0–53.0) ng/mL, p < 0.001. VD was correlated with the number of diseased coronary arteries and lipid profile (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides, p < 0.001 for each). By multivariate analyses, VD was an independent predictor of CAD [OR 1.22 (95% CI 1.07–1.4), p = 0.003, optimal cut-off value 30 ng/mL (AUC 0.92, sensitivity 81% and specificity 81.4%), p < 0.001], and the number of diseased coronary arteries, p < 0.001, especially three-vessel disease [OR 0.83 (95% CI 0.72–0.95), p = 0.008].

Conclusions

We have shown that low VD should be considered a non-traditional risk factor for CAD in Egyptian individuals. Low VD was correlated with coronary atherosclerosis, especially in patients with multivessel effects.
Differential effects of the individualized gender-sensitive mHealth intervention I-GENDO on eating styles in individuals with overweight and obesity – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Seiferth Caroline , Färber Tanja , Pape Magdalena , Schoemann Natalie , Dieberger Anna , Schroeder Stefanie , Herpertz Stephan , Wolstein Jörg , Steins-Loeber Sabine
Published: November 2023

Background

Addressing cognitive behavioral factors is associated with a favorable development of eating styles (i.e., increased levels of restrained eating, decreased levels of external and emotional eating) in individuals with overweight and obesity. Research suggests that the use of digital interventions that consider gender aspects regarding prevalence, comorbidities, and weight-related behaviors could enhance existing treatment options. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the self-guided gender-sensitive mobile health intervention I-GENDO on restrained, emotional and external eating, body mass index, and physical activity at the end of the intervention, and at a 9- and 15-month follow-up.

Methods

Two hundred thirteen individuals (67% female, body mass index: 33.35 ± 3.79 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. Multilevel models were calculated to investigate differences between groups. I-GENDO offered interactive modules addressing psychological content associated with obesity. Users were able to self-tailor intervention content based on their individual needs and life realities.

Results

Restrained eating was higher in the intervention group after the intervention (95% CI: 0.20, 0.36) and at 9-months (95% CI: 0.07, 0.24). At 9-months, emotional eating among women was lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (95% CI: -0.44, -0,19). In the intervention group, external eating was lower after the intervention, which remained significant for women at 9 (95% CI: -0.40, -0.19) and 15-months (95% CI: -0.34, -0.13). Body mass index of men in the intervention group was 1.44 lower at 15-months than in the control group. No significant effects on physical activity were found.

Conclusions

The I-GENDO intervention was effective in changing restrained eating of both women and men in the long-term, suggesting that a self-guided, gender-sensitive approach is promising. However, the differential effects on the outcome measures indicate that more research is warranted to examine distinct gender-sensitive mechanisms of digital psychological interventions (i.e., dose–response relationship, blended counselling).

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04080193, 06–09-2019.
Breast Cancer Germline Genetic Counseling and Testing for Populations of African Heritage Globally: A Scoping Review on Research, Practice, and Bioethical Considerations
Authors: Iwai Yoshiko , Toumbou Kadiata , Zuze Takondwa , Morgan Jenny S. , Simwinga Lusayo , Wright Sarah T. , Fedoriw Yuri , Oladeru Oluwadamilola T. , Balogun Onyinye D. , Roberson Mya L. , Olopade Olufunmilayo I. , Tomoka Tamiwe , Elmore Shekinah N.C.
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Despite the disproportionately high risk of breast cancer among women of African heritage, little is known about the facilitators and barriers to implementing germline genetic testing and counseling (GT/C).

METHODS

This scoping review followed guidelines recommended by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. Published manuscripts from database inception through 2021 were sourced from PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature via EBSCO, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Search terms were used to retrieve articles addressing (1) African heritage, (2) breast cancer, and (3) GT or GC. The screening involved abstract and title review and full-text review. Data were extracted for all articles meeting the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 154 studies were included. Most studies that took place were conducted in the United States (71.4%), and most first authors (76.9%) were from the United States. GT was conducted in 73 (49.7%) studies. BRCA1/ BRCA2 were the most commonly studied genes for germline mutations. GC was conducted in 49 studies (33.3%), and perspectives on GC were evaluated in 43 (29.3%). The use of racial/ethnic categories varied broadly, although African American was most common (40.1%). Racism was mentioned in three studies (2.0%).

CONCLUSION

There is a growing body of literature on GT/C for breast cancer in women of African heritage. Future studies on GT/C of African populations should consider increased clarity around racial/ethnic categorizations, continued community engagement, and intentional processes for informed consent.
Africa Guidelines for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Buildup Process
Authors: Abou-Alfa Ghassan K. , Afihene Mary , Capanu Marinela , Li Yuelin , Chou Joanne F. , Asombang Akwi , Alatise Olusegun Isaac , Bounedjar Adda , Cunha Lina , Mekonnen Hailemichael Desalegn , Diop Papa Saloum , Elwakil Reda , Ali Mahamat Moussa , Ndlovu Ntokozo , Ndumbalo Jerry , Makondi Precious Takondwa , Tzeuton Christian , Biachi de Castria Tiago , Agyei-Nkansah Adwoa Afrakoma , Balogun Fiyinfolu , Bougouma Alain , Atipo Ibara Blaise Irénée , Jonas Eduard , Kimani Stephen , Kingham Peter , Kurrimbukus Reshad , Hammad Nazik , Fouad Mona , El Baghdady Noha , Servais Albert Fiacre Eloumou Bagnaka , Sewram Vikash , Spearman C. Wendy , Yang Ju Dong , Roberts Lewis R. , Abdelaziz Ashraf O.
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the fourth most common cancer in Africa, has a dismal overall survival of only 3 months like in sub-Saharan Africa. This is affected by the low gross domestic product and human development index, absence of coherent guidelines, and other factors.

METHODS

An open forum for HCC-experienced health care workers from Africa and the rest of the world was held in October 2021. Participants completed a survey to help assess the real-life access to screening, diagnoses, and treatment in the North and Southern Africa (NS), East and West Africa (EW), Central Africa (C), and the rest of the world.

RESULTS

Of 461 participants from all relevant subspecialties, 372 were from Africa. Most African participants provided hepatitis B vaccination and treatment for hepatitis B and C. More than half of the participants use serum alpha-fetoprotein and ultrasound for surveillance. Only 20% reported using image-guided diagnostic liver biopsy. The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer is the most used staging system (52%). Liver transplant is available for only 28% of NS and 3% EW. C reported a significantly lower availability of resection. Availability of local therapy ranged from 94% in NS to 62% in C. Sorafenib is the most commonly used systemic therapy (66%). Only 12.9% reported access to other medications including immune checkpoint inhibitors. Besides 42% access to regorafenib in NS, second-line treatments were not provided.

CONCLUSION

Similarities and differences in the care for patients with HCC in Africa are reported. This reconfirms the major gaps in access and availability especially in C and marginally less so in EW. This is a call for concerted multidisciplinary efforts to achieve and sustain a reduction in incidence and mortality from HCC in Africa.
Global Cancer Drug Development—A Report From the 2022 Accelerating Anticancer Agent Development and Validation Meeting
Authors: Wilson Brooke E. , Sullivan Richard , Peto Richard , Abubakar Bello , Booth Christopher , Werutsky Gustavo , Adams Cary , Saint-Raymond Agnes , Fleming Thomas R. , Lyerly Kim , Gralow Julie R.
Published: November 2023

Rapidly expanding systemic treatment options, combined with improved screening, diagnostic, surgical, and radiotherapy techniques, have led to improved survival outcomes for many cancers over time. However, these overall survival gains have disproportionately benefited patients in high-income countries, whereas patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continue to experience challenges in accessing timely and guideline concordant care. In September 2022, the Accelerating Anticancer Agent Development and Validation workshop was held, focusing on global cancer drug development. Panelists discussed key barriers such as the lack of diagnostic services and human resources, drug accessibility and affordability, lack of research infrastructure, and regulatory and authorization challenges, with a particular focus on Africa and Latin America. Potential opportunities to improve access and affordability were reviewed, such as the importance of prioritizing investments in diagnostics, investing health infrastructure and work force planning, coordinated drug procurement efforts and streamlined regulatory processing, incentivized pricing through regulatory change, and the importance of developing and promoting clinical trials that can answer relevant clinical questions for patients in LMICs. As a cancer community, we must continue to advocate for and work toward equitable access to high-quality interventions for patients, regardless of their geographical location.
Going Back Home: Understanding Physician Migration to the United States
Authors: Olazagasti Coral , Florez Narjust
Published: November 2023

In 2021, US foreign-born population reached a high of 14.2% of the total US population. Up to 28% of US working immigrants are physicians. The decision to leave one's home country, though, is rarely an easy one to make and is often riddled with cultural and emotional challenges.
Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses in Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine (Part I): Guidelines for Preparing the Review Protocol
Authors: Barrington Michael J. , D’Souza Ryan S. , Mascha Edward J. , Narouze Samer , Kelley George A.
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive resources exist on how to plan a systematic review and meta-analysis. The objective of this article is to provide guidance to authors preparing their systematic review protocol in the fields of regional anesthesia and pain medicine. The focus is on systematic reviews of health care interventions, with or without an aggregate data meta-analysis. We describe and discuss elements of the systematic review methodology that review authors should prespecify, plan, and document in their protocol before commencing the review. Importantly, authors should explain their rationale for planning their systematic review and describe the PICO framework—participants (P), interventions (I), comparators (C), outcomes (O)—and related elements central to constructing their clinical question, framing an informative review title, determining the scope of the review, designing the search strategy, specifying the eligibility criteria, and identifying potential sources of heterogeneity. We highlight the importance of authors defining and prioritizing the primary outcome, defining eligibility criteria for selecting studies, and documenting sources of information and search strategies. The review protocol should also document methods used to evaluate risk of bias, quality (certainty) of the evidence, and heterogeneity of results. Furthermore, the authors should describe their plans for managing key data elements, the statistical construct used to estimate the intervention effect, methods of evidence synthesis and meta-analysis, and conditions when meta-analysis may not be possible, including the provision of practical solutions. Authors should provide enough detail in their protocol so that the readers could conduct the study themselves.
Radiotherapy for a Patient With Spinal Cord Stimulation: A Case Report
Authors: Linares Gavidia Samuel , Rahman Abed
Published: November 2023

Cancer-related neuropathic pain is prevalent in up to 40% of patients with advanced disease. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is used to treat chronic pain when other treatments are ineffective. Radiotherapy is an established treatment modality for patients with oncological diseases. The ionizing radiation from radiotherapy can potentially damage electrical devices, including SCS devices. Additionally, all parts of SCS can potentially interfere with radiotherapy delivery. We present a case of successful administration of radiotherapy to a patient without damaging the SCS device implanted in proximity to the target lesion.
Ascorbate protects human kidney organoids from damage induced by cell-free hemoglobin
Authors: Bejoy Julie , Farry Justin M. , Qian Eddie S. , Dearing Curtis H. , Ware Lorraine B. , Bastarache Julie A. , Woodard Lauren E.
Published: November 2023

Sepsis-associated acute kidney injury is associated with high morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. Cell-free hemoglobin (CFH) is released into the circulation of patients with severe sepsis and the levels of CFH are independently associated with mortality. CFH treatment increased cytotoxicity in the human tubular epithelial cell line HK-2. To better model the intact kidney, we cultured human kidney organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. We treated human kidney organoids grown using both three-dimensional and transwell protocols with CFH for 48 h. We found evidence for increased tubular toxicity, oxidative stress, mitochondrial fragmentation, endothelial cell injury and injury-associated transcripts compared to those of the untreated control group. To evaluate the protective effect of clinically available small molecules, we co-treated CFH-injured organoids with ascorbate (vitamin C) or acetaminophen for 48 h. We found significantly decreased toxicity, preservation of endothelial cells and reduced mitochondrial fragmentation in the group receiving ascorbate following CFH treatment. This study provides direct evidence that ascorbate or ascorbic acid protects human kidney cells from CFH-induced damage such as that in sepsis-associated acute kidney injury.
A meta-analysis of butterfly structural colors: their color range, distribution and biological production
Authors: Thayer Rachel C. , Patel Nipam H.
Published: November 2023

Butterfly scales are among the richest natural sources of optical nanostructures, which produce structural color and iridescence. Several recurring nanostructure types have been described, such as ridge multilayers, gyroids and lower lamina thin films. While the optical mechanisms of these nanostructure classes are known, their phylogenetic distributions and functional ranges have not been described in detail. In this Review, we examine a century of research on the biological production of structural colors, including their evolution, development and genetic regulation. We have also created a database of more than 300 optical nanostructures in butterflies and conducted a meta-analysis of the color range, abundance and phylogenetic distribution of each nanostructure class. Butterfly structural colors are ubiquitous in short wavelengths but extremely rare in long wavelengths, especially red. In particular, blue wavelengths (around 450 nm) occur in more clades and are produced by more kinds of nanostructures than other hues. Nanostructure categories differ in prevalence, phylogenetic distribution, color range and brightness. For example, lamina thin films are the least bright; perforated lumen multilayers occur most often but are almost entirely restricted to the family Lycaenidae; and 3D photonic crystals, including gyroids, have the narrowest wavelength range (from about 450 to 550 nm). We discuss the implications of these patterns in terms of nanostructure evolution, physical constraint and relationships to pigmentary color. Finally, we highlight opportunities for future research, such as analyses of subadult and Hesperid structural colors and the identification of genes that directly build the nanostructures, with relevance for biomimetic engineering.
Análise das capacidades estatais municipais na literatura acadêmica: Construção e visualização de mapas bibliométricos com VOSviewer e CitNetExplorer
Authors: Silva Lucas Braga da , Silva Letícia Linhales da , Almeida Lia de Azevedo
Published: November 2023

Eckersley e Tobin (2019) e Grin e Abrucio (2018) destacam a falta de atenção dada às capacidades estatais municipais na literatura acadêmica, nacional e internacional, apesar da crescente descentralização das políticas públicas. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão bibliométrica da produção científica relacionada ao tema no período de 1975 a 2020. Para isso, fizeram-se buscas na base de dados Web of Science, e os dados foram analisados por meio dos softwares CitNetExplorer e VOSviewer. A análise possibilitou um mapa no que tange a citações, autores, países, fontes, palavras-chave e acoplamento bibliográfico, o que permitiu compreender o tema em diferentes contextos e situações e apontar direções para pesquisas futuras.
Conexões entre capacidades burocráticas e burocracias de médio escalão: Uma pesquisa de escopo
Authors: Pazini Papi Luciana , Dos Santos Gislaine Thompson , Seidi Mutaro
Published: November 2023

O artigo objetiva mapear os avanços feitos pela produção científica brasileira em torno do conceito das burocracias de médio escalão (BME) buscando identificar as definições e os esforços de operacionalização feitos pela literatura, assim como a relação estabelecida com o tema de capacidades burocráticas. Para tanto, realizou-se uma pesquisa de escopo da literatura nacional sobre a temática nos últimos 30 anos. Os resultados mostram que a pesquisa sobre as BME é recente, incipiente em âmbito municipal e na associação com capacidades burocráticas. De modo geral, os autores conceituam as BME como sendo os ocupantes de cargos intermediários entre o alto escalão e o nível da rua. Há um consenso em relação às funções desses burocratas, entre as técnicas, políticas e operacionais. Os achados do artigo demonstram ser necessários estudos das BME em nível municipal uma vez que se trata de um ente governamental altamente relevante na produção de políticas públicas.
PLANEJAMENTO FINANCEIRO PARA A APOSENTADORIA
Authors: Da Costa Silva Daniela , Papandrea Pedro Jose , De Souza Moreira Vinicius
Published: November 2023

A expectativa de vida do brasileiro está aumentando e o planejamento financeiro para a aposentadoria é essencial para envelhecer com tranquilidade. O presente estudo teve como objetivo identificar o comportamento e a percepção de discentes de graduação em relação ao planejamento financeiro pessoal para a aposentadoria. O público-alvo foram os acadêmicos dos cursos de graduação da Universidade Federal de Alfenas (UNIFAL - MG) – Campus Varginha-MG. Para tanto, realizou-se uma pesquisa de abordagem quantitativa e descritiva, no segundo semestre de 2022, que contou com a participação voluntária de 179 alunos. Os principais resultados encontrados foram que os acadêmicos reconhecem a importância do planejamento financeiro para a aposentadoria, possuem conhecimento sobre o sistema previdenciário brasileiro, porém a maior parte não se sente segura com esse conhecimento. Por fim, constatou-se que mais da metade da amostra não realiza o planejamento de previdência por falta de conhecimento ou recursos e, entre esses, a maioria pretende começar a planejar financeiramente sua aposentadoria.
Αποτελεσματικότητα της διπλής αντιαιμοπεταλιακής αγωγής με ασπιρίνη και τικαγρελόρη στην πρόληψη εμβολικών εγκεφαλικών επεισοδίων σε ασθενείς που υποβάλλονται σε διακαθετηριακή εμφύτευση βιοπροσθετικής αορτικής βαλβίδας συγκριτικά με ασθενείς που λαμβάνουν ασπιρίνη και κολπιδογρέλη, όπως εκτιμάται από την ανίχνευση παροδικών εμβολικών σημάτων υψηλής έντασης στη ροή των μέσων εγκεφαλικών αρτηριών
Authors: Καλαντζής Χαράλαμπος
Published: November 2023

Υπόβαθρο: Η επίδραση της αντιαιμοπεταλιακής αγωγής στον αριθμό των μικροεμβολικών εγκεφαλικών επεισοδίων, κατά την διάρκεια της διακαθετηριακής εμφύτευσης αορτικής βαλβίδας (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation - TAVΙ) δεν έχει περιγραφεί. Μέθοδοι: Ασθενείς που ήταν προγραμματισμένοι να υποβληθούν σε TAVI τυχαιοποιήθηκαν να λάβουν είτε ασπιρίνη και κλοπιδογρέλη ή ασπιρίνη και τικαγρελόρη. Ο αριθμός των μικροεμβολικών επεισοδίων αξιολογήθηκε με βάση των αριθμό των παροδικών σημάτων υψηλής έντασης (High Intensity Transient Signals - HITS), μέσω διακρανιακού Doppler. Τα αιμορραγικά επεισόδια καταγράφηκαν με βάση τα κριτήρια VARC-2.Αποτελέσματα: Από τους 90 ασθενείς που τυχαιοποιήθηκαν αρχικά, 8 είχαν ανεπαρκές σήμα στο διακρανιακό Doppler και για αυτό το λόγο δεν συμπεριελήφθησαν στην ανάλυση. Εν τέλει στη μελέτη εισήχθησαν 82 ασθενείς (μέση ηλικία 81,1 ± 7 έτη, 63,4% άνδρες) με συμπτωματική σοβαρού βαθμού στένωση αορτικής βαλβίδας. Ο συνολικός αριθμός των HITS κατά την διάρκεια της επέμβασης ήταν μεγαλύτερος στους ασθενείς που έλαβαν κλοπιδογρέλη (679 ± 214) (41 ασθενείς) σε σχέση με τους ασθενείς που έλαβαν κλοπιδογρέλη (410 ± 108) (41 ασθενείς), p< 0,001. Οι ασθενείς που έλαβαν τικαγρελόρη είχαν κατά μέσο όρο 255.9 (95% CI: [ -335.4, -176.4]) λιγότερα επεμβατικά HITS σε σύγκριση με της ασθενείς που έλαβαν τικαγρελόρη, ανεξάρτητα από την διάρκεια της επέμβασης, την παρουσία διαβήτη ή περιφερικής αρτηριοπάθειας και την ποσότητα ασβεστίου στην αορτική βαλβίδα. Συμπέρασμα: Η χορήγηση τικαγρελόρης σε συνδυασμό με ασπιρίνη οδηγεί σε μικρότερο αριθμό παροδικών σημάτων υψηλής έντασης (HITS), σε σύγκριση με την κλοπιδογρέλη, σε ασθενείς που υποβάλλονται σε TAVI.
Demonstrating clean energy transition scenarios in sector-coupled and renewable-based energy communities
Authors: Maruf Md Nasimul Islam , Mahmud Shadman , Pasarín Iván S. , Giani Federico , Degrave Aurélien , Guerra Carlos Funez , Lopez Susana , Mesonero Ivan
Published: November 2023

Background Energy communities facilitate several advantages, including energy autonomy, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, poverty mitigation, and regional economic development. They also empower citizens with decision-making and co-ownership prospects in community renewable projects. Integrating renewable energy sources and sector coupling is a crucial strategy for flexible energy systems. However, demonstrating clean energy transition scenarios in these communities presents challenges, including technology integration, flexibility activation, load reduction, grid resilience, and business case development. Methods Based on the system of systems approach, this paper introduces a 4-step funnel approach and a 4-step reverse funnel approach to systematically specify and detail demonstration scenarios for energy community projects. The funnel approach involves four steps. First, it selects demonstration scenarios promoting energy-efficient state-of-the-art renewable technologies and storage systems, flexibility through demand side management techniques, reduced grid dependence, and economic viability. Second, it lists all existing and planned project technologies, analysing energy flows. Third, it plans actions at different levels to implement the demonstration scenarios. Fourth, it validates the strategies using key performance indicators (KPI) to quantify the effectiveness of the planned measures. Furthermore, the reverse funnel approach delves deeper into the demonstration scenarios. The four steps involve identifying stakeholder perspectives, describing scenario scopes, listing conditions for realisation, and outlining business models, including value chains and economic assumptions. Results This approach provides a detailed analysis of the demonstration scenarios, considering actors, objectives, boundary conditions, and business assumptions. The methodologies are exemplified in three diverse European energy communities extending across residential, commercial, tertiary, and industrial establishments, allowing power-to-x and sector coupling opportunities. The paper also suggested thirteen KPIs for validating renewable-focused energy community projects. Conclusions Finally, the paper recommends increased collaboration between energy communities, knowledge sharing, stakeholder engagement, transparent data collection and analysis, continuous feedback, and method improvement to mitigate policy, technology, business, and market uncertainties.
Digital Engagement Practices in Mobile Trading: The Impact of Color and Swiping to Trade on Investor Decisions
Authors: Grant Stephanie M. , Hobson Jessen L. , Sinha Roshan K.
Published: November 2023

As coined by the SEC, Digital Engagement Practices (DEPs) are visual cues and design features to engage investors on mobile trading platforms. With the rise of mobile stock trading, regulators and other capital market participants are concerned that these DEPs may cause retail investors to trade in ways they otherwise would not. Using an experiment, we examine the impact of two common DEPs in mobile trading platforms—color (i.e., the use of green or red to indicate performance) and allowing investors to swipe versus click and confirm to execute trades. Drawing from prior research, we predict that the color associated with firm information will interact with how investors execute their trades to affect investment decisions. Consistent with expectations, results show that investors make the largest investment in a firm when they swipe to trade and firm information is colored green, relative to when they click and confirm to trade or firm information is colored red, holding firm economics constant. Swiping to trade causes investors to focus relatively more on the upside of investing, but only when firm information is colored green and not when it is colored red. The color red leads to a muted effect of swiping to trade as investors experience more negative affect and focus relatively more on the downside of investing. Our study answers calls from regulators and academics to examine the effects of technology on information evaluation in investment decisions, and has important practical implications for investors.

This paper was accepted by Ranjani Krishnan, accounting.

Supplemental Material: The data is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.00379 .
Bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole and tetracycline – a rare cause of drug-induced liver injury
Authors: Silva Carina , Susana Merim Susana Merim , Rita Sevivas Rita Sevivas , João Mota João Mota , Alexandra Leitão Alexandra Leitão
Published: November 2023

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a liver condition caused by any drug or toxic substance. The spectrum of DILI manifestations can range from asymptomatic elevation of liver enzymes to acute liver failure. Antibiotics are one of the major causes of DILI. The authors report the case of a 37-year-old male with nausea, right hypochondrium pain and fever with history of bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole and tetracycline combination treatment in the previous five days. DILI was suspected and other aetiologies of acute hepatitis were excluded such as viral, autoimmune or even haemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease. Liver biopsy was performed, being compatible with the diagnosis of DILI; DILI is a diagnosis of exclusion. Bismuth subcitrate, metronidazole and tetracycline combination treatment is a rare cause of DILI.
Cutaneous hydrophilic polymer embolism in a patient with acute kidney injury post endovascular procedure
Authors: Mohrag Mostafa , Binsalman Mohammed , Abdulrasak Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Background: Hydrophilic polymer gel coatings are used on different intravascular devices to prevent vasospasm and thrombosis. However, it may become dislodged from these devices, leading to ischaemic complications in various organs including the skin, kidneys, brain, heart or lungs. Hydrophilic polymer embolisation (HPE) is a rare complication following endovascular procedures that is currently not fully recognised. The current knowledge of this phenomenon is based on reports consisting of histologic evidence of foreign polymers in the affected organ. Case description: A 76-year-old male with a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, renal cell carcinoma and chronic kidney disease underwent endovascular stenting of the superficial femoral artery due to critical limb ischaemia of the right foot. The patient had an acute kidney injury following the procedure. Upon examining the legs, there were tender non-blanching macular lesions on the right lower limb. A skin biopsy of the lesion was performed and showed hydrophilic polymer embolisation. Unfortunately, a few weeks later the patient was readmitted due to a worsening of the right foot wound situation, which required below-knee amputation. Conclusion: HPE is a rarely reported complication after endovascular interventions, with the potential to embolise to multiple organs. By observing skin manifestations, it is possible to aid the early detection of ischaemic events in other organs and identify their underlying causes. Generally speaking, the course is benign and self-limiting when the skin is involved, but may be more sinister especially when other organs (e.g. brain) are involved.
Support for culturally and linguistically diverse mental health and learning disability student nurses
Authors: Wagstaff Christopher , Hemingway Stephen , Tuffour Isaac , Simbani Sinikiwe , Arrey Sally , Miller Eula , Currid Thomas
Published: November 2023

This article explores the challenges faced by international mental health and learning disability student nurses studying in the UK and provides guidelines to address some of the issues raised. The definition of an international student is broadened to include culturally and linguistically diverse student nurses who encounter similar dynamics as traditional international students. The article highlights challenges faced by culturally and linguistically diverse students in university and practice settings, such as language proficiency, cultural barriers, limited learning opportunities and inadequate support. The article proposes practical interventions and pedagogical innovations to support culturally and linguistically diverse students in their nursing studies, aiming to enhance their academic success and transition into the nursing workforce.
Alcohol-related dementia
Authors: Fitzpatrick Lesley , Mortimore Gerri
Published: November 2023

Dementia is one of the leading causes of death both in the UK and worldwide. Approximately 1 million people have been diagnosed with this condition in the UK. Although there are many types of dementia, this article will focus on alcohol-related dementia. Alcohol has become a leading cause of death in the 50−69-year age group in England, and with consumption rising rapidly, there is an increased risk that young and middle-aged people will develop alcohol-related dementia in the future. The aim of this article is to review the evidence base and discuss whether alcohol-related dementia is a sub-class of dementia or a separate entity.
Modeling Knee-Brace Fastener Slippage in Post-Frame Buildings with Diaphragm-Action Design
Authors: Reznik Dimitry , Gebremedhin Kifle G.
Published: November 2023

Highlights

Effects of knee braces, with and without fastener slippage, on a post-frame structure with diaphragm-action design.

Modeling techniques of knee braces with fastener slippage.

Effects of fastener slippage on a primary frame with knee braces.

Knee brace may have an undesired (negative) effect on posts and roof trusses.

Abstract. Knee braces should not be an add on after the post-frame building is designed because they do affect the behavior of the structure. It is recommended that the building designer first check the need for knee bracing when diaphragm action is included in the design. Knee braces may benefit buildings with certain geometrical configurations and loading conditions where diaphragm action alone is not enough. Modeling knee bracing within a post-frame building is complex. The complexity extends to the roof-truss design because the truss design must include the knee brace reaction forces. The building designer is responsible for reviewing truss drawings to verify that knee brace loads are applied correctly, and that correct governing load combinations are applied. In this study, a structural analog that includes knee braces, with and without slippage, was developed to model the effects of knee braces on designs of post-frame buildings with diaphragm action. In the five buildings analyzed in this study, use of knee braces produced inconsistent results. Knee braces may increase or decrease horizontal eave deflection, load demand on the diaphragm and endwalls, load demand on the foundation, and stress unity in the posts. In all buildings with knee braces, posts were subjected to additional bending stresses under gravity loads. This behavior was more pronounced in buildings with long truss spans. Knee braces should not be specified in the design documents unless their effects on the building are considered by structural analysis. Keywords: Diaphragm action, Knee braces, Modeling connection slippage, Post-frame buildings.
The promotion of academic literacy in higher education: The course Reading and Writing for the Production of Academic Knowledge
Authors: Brandão Carvalho José António
Published: November 2023

Despite the recognition of the difficulties of many students, their training in the field of academic literacy has no tradition in higher education in Portugal. There are, however, some approaches dealing with it. The course Reading and Writing for the Production of Academic Knowledge, taught to undergraduate students at the University of Minho, is an example of these approaches. This course places the issue of academic writing in the broader framework of academic literacy. It aims to make students aware of the specific uses of academic language in their field of study and promote their understanding of the role of reading and writing in knowledge construction and dissemination. The course Reading and Writing for the Production of Academic Knowledge assumes a practical nature to facilitate the appropriation of academic genres by engaging students in academic language practices within their learning context and by using the specific texts of their disciplines.
SOBRE LA VIOLENCIA EN LAS PELÍCULAS DE PASOLINI
Authors: LÓPEZ-PÉREZ SHEILA
Published: November 2023

El presente artículo tiene dos objetivos: por un lado, analizar la violencia utilizada por Pasolini en su obra Saló o los 120 días de Sodoma; por el otro, interpretar las intenciones del director a la hora de utilizar una violencia tan desproporcionada como inobservable. Con miras a ello, trazaremos un recorrido tanto por el tiempo histórico que vivió el cineasta italiano como por las ideas filosóficas que lo atravesaron. Por último, se revelará una serie de conclusiones respecto a la utilización de la violencia en el cine.
Artificial Intelligence, Advertising, and Society
Authors: Chuan Ching-Hua , Tsai Wan-Hsiu Sunny , Yang Jing
Published: November 2023

Abstract: To advocate for corporate digital responsibility (CDR) in the era of artificial intelligence (AI), this article provides a comprehensive overview of AI in the advertising process as well as the associated ethical and sociopolitical concerns. We first define AI and explain the key concepts and approaches in creating AI systems, before we discuss the state-of-the-art AI applications for marketing communications. We then discuss algorithmic bias and delineate the sociopolitical consequences of hyper-personalization and commercial surveillance enabled by AI. We conclude this article with an emphasis on AI literacy and a call for advertisers to join forces in demanding regulations and accountability structures to enforce fair, transparent, and ethical uses of AI. Through this primer, we aim to inspire scholars who are entering the interdisciplinary research field of AI-mediated brand-consumer interaction and to inform advertising educators and industry professionals of the benefits and perils of AI in marketing communications.
Optical counting platform of shrimp larvae using masked k-means and a side window filter
Authors: Qian Kun , Duan Hong-chao
Published: November 2023

Accurate and efficient counting of shrimp larvae is crucial for monitoring reproduction patterns, assessing growth rates, and evaluating the performance of aquaculture. Traditional methods via density estimation are ineffective in the case of high density. In addition, the image contains bright spots utilizing the point light source or the line light source. Therefore, in this paper an automated shrimp counting platform based on optics and image processing is designed to complete the task of counting shrimp larvae. First, an area light source ensures a uniformly illuminated environment, which helps to obtain shrimp images with high resolution. Then, a counting algorithm based on improved k-means and a side window filter (SWF) is designed to achieve an accurate number of shrimp in the lamp house. Specifically, the SWF technique is introduced to preserve the body contour of shrimp larvae, and eliminate noise, such as water impurities and eyes of shrimp larvae. Finally, shrimp larvae are divided into two groups, independent and interdependent, and counted separately. Experimental results show that the designed optical counting system is excellent in terms of visual effect and objective evaluation.
Point spread function modeling for photoacoustic tomography – I: three-dimensional detection geometries
Authors: Zhang Chenxi , Tan Zhijian , Tian Chao
Published: November 2023

Photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) has been under intensive investigation as a promising noninvasive biomedical imaging modality. Various acoustic detector arrays have been developed to achieve enhanced imaging performance. In this paper, we study the effect of the detection geometry on image quality through point spread function (PSF) modeling based on back-projection image reconstruction. Three commonly-used three-dimensional detection geometries, namely, spherical, cylindrical, and planar detector arrays, are investigated. The effect of detector bandwidth and aperture on PSF in these detection geometries is also studied. This work provides a performance evaluation tool for acoustic detector arrays used in PACT and can be helpful in the design and selection of detector arrays in practical imaging applications.