bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acellular Dermal Matrix for Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Lingyan Li , Han Zhao , Jialu Li , Bingyang He , Yuanyuan Ma , Peiwei Qin , Peifen Ma , Liwei Xu
Published: November 2023

Aims: To evaluate the reliability of the methodological quality and outcome measures of systematic reviews (SRs)/metaanalyses (MAs) of the acellular dermal matrix (ADM) for diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Methods: We searched and retrieved SRs and MAs on the application of ADM for DFU from PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CNKI, CBM, WanFang, and VIP databases. We employed AMSTAR 2 to assess methodological quality, Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system to grade, and the strength of evidence of included SRs/MAs. We excluded the overlapping randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and conducted a re-MA of the primary RCTs. Results: A total of 7 SRs/MAs were included. Results from the AMSTAR 2 evaluation revealed a low overall quality; the GRADE system showed that the evidence was of moderate to very low quality. Our re-MA showed that ADM was superior to standard of care (SOC), with regards to complete wound healing rate at 12 weeks (RR = 1.74, 95% CI:1.34-2.25, P < .0001), complete wound healing rate at 16 weeks (RR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.26-1.77, P ＜ .00001); healing time (MD = −2.06, 95% CI: −2.57 to −1.54, P < .00001) and adverse events (RR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.49-0.80, P = .0002). However, a consensus has not yet been reached between ADM and SOC groups with regard to outcome indicators of the reduction of ulcer area and quality of life; and subgroup analyses showed no statistically significant differences between the xenograft ADM and SOC groups (RR = 1.36, 95% CI: 0.95-1.93, P = .09) at 12 weeks. Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that ADM is more effective than the standard of care in the treatment of DFU, particularly for full-thickness, noninfected, and nonischemic foot ulcers, but with low evidence quality. Therefore, the results of this overview should be interpreted dialectically and prudently, and the role of ADM in DFU needs further exploration.
Retrospective Review of Management and Overall Survival Rate of Patients With Vascular Pythiosis of the Lower Extremity: 20 Years Experience
Authors: Arworn Supapong , Reanpang Termpong , Apichartpiyakul Poon , Orrapin Saranat , Rerkasem Kittipan
Published: November 2023

Pythiosis is an infectious disease in humans and animals caused by an aquatic fungus-like micro-organism, Pythium insidiosum. Vascular pythiosis is a difficult condition to treat and can lead to loss of limb in addition to being a potentially life-threatening infection. The condition is furthermore unfamiliar among healthcare workers, which often results in delayed treatment or even misdiagnosis. In this study, we report our findings, which have been gathered over a 20-year period in caring for vascular pythiosis in Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand. We made a retrospective medical review of 32 patients presented with arterial occlusion who have serum anti- Pythium insidiosum antibodies. All patients underwent computed tomography angiography to confirm the level of arterial occlusion and decided on a treatment plan. Twelve out of 22 patients with infrainguinal disease, femoropopliteal or below-knee vascular occlusion, survived. The mean survival time is 6.58 years. Eight in 10 patients presented with suprainguinal disease died during the follow-up with a mean survival time of 31.6 months. The suprainguinal extension of the disease influenced the outcome, resulting in a higher mortality rate. However, patients presented with chronic limb ischemia had a much greater rate of survival compared to other clinical presentations. Extensive surgical resection combined with antifungal treatment and immunotherapy have proven to be effective in patients with vascular pythiosis in our findings.
Talking About Torture: A Novel Approach to the Mixed Methods Analysis of Genocide-Related Witness Statements in the Khmer Rouge Tribunal
Authors: Schirmer Miriam , Pfeffer Jürgen , Hilbert Sven
Published: November 2023

This study investigates differences in torture-related witness statements during the Khmer Rouge Tribunal. It follows a three-phased sequential mixed methods design to identify disparities between testimonies of former detainees and interrogators and to examine how different methods complement each other for a comprehensive perspective on witness accounts. This includes training a natural language processing (NLP) model, sentiment analysis (SA), and qualitative content analysis (QCA). The qualitative and NLP-based analyses showed apparent differences between witness groups; a significant difference in sentiment values could not be detected. This study presents the first mixed methods approach based on court transcripts in genocide research. Its digital approach contributes to mixed methods research (MMR) by showing how NLP and data transformation can contribute to integration.
Utilisation of the Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon – An illustrative series
Authors: O’Reilly Sean Thomas , Hendriks Eef Jacobus , Itsekson Ze’ev , Alshahrani Rabab , Chung Emily , Radovanovic Ivan , Agid Ronit , Nicholson Patrick , Krings Timo
Published: November 2023

Background

Dual-lumen balloon microcatheters can aid in the safety and efficacy of endovascular embolisation of cerebrospinal vascular malformations. The Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon is a novel device with a smaller profile than previous balloon microcatheters, opening up new indications not only in the treatment of cerebrospinal malformations but in various other neurovascular therapeutic and diagnostic scenarios.

Methods

Following institutional ethics review board approval, a retrospective review of our prospectively maintained database of cases employing the Scepter Mini dual-lumen microballoon catheter was conducted. Five cases in particular were highlighted, demonstrating utilisation of this device, which may be of interest to the Neurointerventionalist. Patient demographics, procedure details, complications and clinical outcome data were reviewed.

Results

Five cases employing the Scepter Mini dual-lumen microballoon catheter are presented; trans-arterial embolisation of cerebral AVM, pre-operative tumour embolisation, diagnostic angiography, trans-venous embolisation of cerebral AVM and trans-arterial embolisation of DAVF. No intraprocedural complications were recorded, one patient had a delayed haemorrhage.

Conclusion

Potential utilisation of the Scepter Mini lies not only in the trans-arterial embolisation of cerebrospinal vascular malformations, but in a range of other diagnostic and therapeutic indications as demonstrated.
Rapid calibration to dynamic temporal contexts
Authors: Rhodes Darren , Bridgewater Tyler , Ayache Julia , Riemer Martin
Published: November 2023

The prediction of future events and the preparation of appropriate behavioural reactions rely on an accurate perception of temporal regularities. In dynamic environments, temporal regularities are subject to slow and sudden changes, and adaptation to these changes is an important requirement for efficient behaviour. Bayesian models have proven a useful tool to understand the processing of temporal regularities in humans; yet an open question pertains to the degree of flexibility of the prior that is required for optimal modelling of behaviour. Here we directly compare dynamic models (with continuously changing prior expectations) and static models (a stable prior for each experimental session) with their ability to describe regression effects in interval timing. Our results show that dynamic Bayesian models are superior when describing the responses to slow, continuous environmental changes, whereas static models are more suitable to describe responses to sudden changes. In time perception research, these results will be informative for the choice of adequate computational models and enhance our understanding of the neuronal computations underlying human timing behaviour.
The mean remaining strength evaluation of a multi-state system under a stress-strength model
Authors: Deveci Firat , Iscioglu Funda
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the mean remaining strength (MRS) evaluation of a multi-state component and a multi-state k-out-of- n:G system based on a stress-strength model is studied. The MRS of a component (system) can be defined as the expected remaining strength of a component (system) surviving under random stress until its failure. According to the stress-strength model, any component of the system is affected by two random stresses found in the environment. Therefore, there exists two states for the components of the system. The MRS function of a component is obtained via order statistics for both state “1 or above” and state “2” referring the “partial performance or above” and ”excellent performance” states, respectively. The MRS function of a three-state k-out-of- n:G system is also achieved. The MRS values are obtained by assuming Exponential and Weibull distributed strength and stress random variables. Pareto distributed stress and strength effects on the MRS are also discussed under dependency case. All the results are analyzed by considering different parameters, number of components and k values. In addition, all the theoretical results were supported by simulations, some numerical examples and graphical representations.
Immunomodulatory actions of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the context of innate immunity
Authors: Bizymi Nikoleta , Matthaiou Andreas M. , Mavroudi Irene , Batsali Aristea , Papadaki Helen A.
Published: November 2023

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are notable innate immune cells, which are further divided into two subpopulations, i.e., monocytic and granulocytic. These cells are traditionally considered to mainly suppress the T-cell responses. However, more updated data indicate that their properties are rather immunomodulatory than solely immunosuppressive. Indeed, MDSCs display extensive crosstalk with other either innate or adaptive immune cells, and, according to the situation under which they are triggered, they may enhance or attenuate the immune response. However, their positive role in host's defense mechanisms under specific conditions is rarely discussed in the literature. In this mini-review, the authors briefly summarise the mechanisms of action of MDSCs under distinct conditions, such as infections and malignancies, with a particular emphasis on their role as components of the innate immunity system.
Experimenting with co-ownership of energy storage facilities - A case study of the Netherlands
Authors: van den Boom Jasper
Published: November 2023

This article discusses how shared ownership of energy storage facilities between grid managers (Distribution System Operators and Transmission System Operators) and third-party market participants may help to resolve congestion issues. The article uses the Netherlands as a case study on how congestion issues may lead to a stalemate: increasing energy storage capacity may help to resolve grid congestion but may cause additional congestion if used to trade in profitable markets. As a result, it is not installed, or installation is delayed until the grid is fortified. The article discusses how shared ownership may lead to the co-optimization of investment decisions by different stakeholders and of the operation of the storage facility. It also discusses how the exemption to unbundling obligations under art. 36 (2) of Directive 2019/944 can be used to allow for these ownership constructions. The article argues that national regulatory authorities can use regulatory experimentation to find the desirable conditions and uses of the exemption and to stimulate regulatory learning. The use of experimentation can help to resolve congestion issues in certain localities in the short term and help to develop principles for regulation of the future energy system in the long-term.
Quo Vadis Racial Disparities? Trend Analysis of the Participation and Top Achievement in Advanced Placement Computer Science Exams
Authors: Bahar Kadir , Kaya Erdogan , Zhang Xiaolu , Mjavanadze Eter
Published: November 2023

This study explores the direction and magnitude of racial disparities on three advanced placement (AP) computer science (CS) exams, namely AP CS Principles, AP CS A, and AP CS AB, based on the test scores of more than one million students who have taken AP CS exams between 1997 and 2020. Using Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope procedures we found that the number of Black, Hispanic, and Native American students in AP CS exams have increased steadily and significantly over years, yet they are still far from reaching parity. Further, our findings suggest that the racial disparities among top achievers are very wide. The results provide educators and researchers support for identifying and quantifying the racial disparities in advanced academic programs and may inform the development of policies, practices, and programs to reduce racial disparities in pre-college CS education and further.
A Perfect Contempt for Teaching
Authors: Jarvie Scott , McKenzie Cori , Colmenares Erica Eva
Published: November 2023

In his hopeful defense of poetry, poet Ben Lerner confesses his contempt for the artform as a kind of bulwark against the disappointment inherent in the writing and reading of poetry. Actual poems never do justice to the “transcendent impulse” that drives the poet to language, he argues, but that fact ought not provoke a rejection of Poetry. Instead, he advocates for approaching poetry with, borrowing a phrase from Marianne Moore, a “perfect contempt for it” that creates spaces of possibility for the absent perfection of a poem. In this inquiry, we consider how Lerner’s description of poetry resonates with the experience of teachers and education researchers. We have, each of us, been disappointed by our pedagogy: by lessons gone awry, teaching contexts that yoke us to neoliberal methods, encounters with students that make us feel like failures. Inspired by Lerner, we wondered how we might theoretically reframe this disappointment by channeling it into a perfect contempt for teaching. To do so, we turn to the literature on so-called negative affects (e.g., the work of Sara Ahmed) and an assortment of texts—from teaching journals and email correspondence to poetry and plays—to qualitatively explore two questions: What does it mean to perfect a contempt for teaching? and How might a perfect contempt for teaching function as an affective resource for teachers suffering the sting of disappointment? In inquiring into these we hope, following Lerner, to generate places of possibility in teaching and education research.
Characterization of the Age-Related Differences in Porcine Acetabulum and Femoral Head Articular Cartilage
Authors: Fackler Nathan P. , Donahue Ryan P. , Bielajew Benjamin J. , Amirhekmat Arya , Hu Jerry C. , Athanasiou Kyriacos A. , Wang Dean
Published: November 2023

Objective

The use of porcine animal models for cartilage injury has increased recently due to their similarity with humans with regard to cartilage thickness, limited intrinsic healing of chondral defects, and joint loading biomechanics. However, variations in the mechanical and biochemical properties of porcine hip articular cartilage among various tissue ages and weightbearing (WB) regions are still unknown. This study’s aim was to characterize the mechanical and biochemical properties of porcine hip articular cartilage across various ages and WB regions.

Methods

Articular cartilage explants were harvested from WB and non-weightbearing (NWB) surfaces of the femoral head and acetabulum of domesticated pigs ( Sus scrofa domesticus) at fetal (gestational age: 80 days), juvenile (6 months), and adult (2 years) ages. Explants underwent compressive stress-relaxation mechanical testing, biochemical analysis for total collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, and histological staining.

Results

Juvenile animals consistently had the highest mechanical properties, with 2.2- to 7.6-time increases in relaxation modulus, 1.3- to 2.3-time increases in instantaneous modulus, and 4.1- to 14.2-time increases in viscosity compared with fetal cartilage. Mechanical properties did not significantly differ between the WB and NWB regions. Collagen content was highest in the NWB regions of the juvenile acetabulum (65.3%/dry weight [DW]) and femoral head (75.4%/DW) cartilages. GAG content was highest in the WB region of the juvenile acetabulum (23.7%/DW) and the WB region of the fetal femoral head (27.5%/DW) cartilages. Histological staining for GAG and total collagen content followed the trends from the quantitative biochemical assays.

Conclusion

This study provides a benchmark for the development and validation of preclinical porcine models for hip cartilage pathologies.
Dental trauma: preparing for success
Authors: Bradley Hannah , Burns Beth
Published: November 2023

Dental trauma is an infrequent occurrence in daily general dental practice and, combined with a lack of confidence in its management, can be a significant cause of stress for the dental team. Excessive stress can have a significant impact upon our performance. This article presents practical ways in which the dental team can reduce the stress associated with dental trauma management. It promotes the use of standardised protocols and involves the whole dental team to achieve optimal outcomes for patients.
The consequences of Dental trauma
Authors: Gladwin Lorna , Darcey James
Published: November 2023

Traumatic dental injuries pose a variety of complex ongoing issues to the dental practitioner. As dental injuries are commonly experienced at a young age, the treatment often takes place during adolescence or early in adulthood years at crucial development stages and very early in the life of the permanent successor. Therefore, the ability to correctly diagnose the injury, and follow an appropriate management plan should increase practitioners’ ability to improve both the outcomes of dental trauma and long-term prognosis of the tooth.

The consequences of dental trauma can be explored by taking into consideration the type of injury, which enables an assessment of the degree of insult to the pulpal tissues, neurovascular bundle, periodontal ligament and cemental cells. This has a direct influence on post-trauma complications. Early intervention, where indicated, and appropriate follow-up utilising international guidelines is imperative to identify changing diagnoses and act accordingly. This review paper will discuss the classification of traumatic injuries and their associated outcomes with management strategies for emerging disease including potential endodontic and restorative complexities and when to refer to secondary care.
A case of rapid fingernail growth associated with nail psoriasis: A case report
Authors: Conway Jade , Lipner Shari R
Published: November 2023

Overall, 80%–90% of patients with psoriasis will have nail involvement at some point during their lifetime, and nail changes, on average, are more common in patients with longer disease duration. Since there is accelerated keratinocyte proliferation and cell turnover in cutaneous psoriasis plaques compared to normal skin, it has been hypothesized that psoriasis increases nail growth rate. We describe a case of a 44-year-old male with a 10-year history of cutaneous and nail psoriasis, with acceleration in nail growth rate for 2 years prior to presentation. Clinical examination of the fingernails showed very long nails with onychorrhexis, onycholysis, and koilonychia and scattered erythematous plaques involving the chest and arms. We report a case of rapid fingernail growth in a patient with a 10-year history of psoriasis with skin and nail manifestations. Our case supports the hypothesis that increased cell turnover in psoriasis patients affects nail growth rate.
Use of a preoperative 3D templating and proximal lateral tibial fitting patient-specific instrumentation in fixed valgus complex primary total knee arthroplasty for a patient with retaining hardware for internal fixation to treat Schatzker type V tibial plateau fracture: A case report
Authors: Mizunuma Yuta , Takahashi Tsuneari , Iguchi Masaki , Sasanuma Hideyuki , Saitsu Akihiro , Handa Mikiko , Matsumura Tomohiro , Takeshita Katsushi
Published: November 2023

A 72-year-old female patient with a fixed valgus knee deformity due to a Schatzker type V tibial plateau fracture treated with bilateral locking plates 8 years ago was admitted to our clinic with complaints of chronic pain and knee instability when walking. Radiographs revealed Kellgren–Lawrence Classification grade 4 knee osteoarthritis and 20.5° of valgus knee deformity. She was treated with three-dimensional templating and proximal lateral tibial fitting patient-specific instrumentation-assisted mechanically aligned posterior sacrificing total knee arthroplasty with minimal removal of the retained hardware for the internal fixation of the tibial plateau fracture via a lateral approach, resulting in a favorable clinical outcome. The use of proximal lateral tibial fitting patient-specific instrumentation in fixed valgus complex primary total knee arthroplasty for patients with retaining hardware for internal fixation to treat tibial plateau fractures is considered a treatment option to decrease surgical invasion.
Alignment Among Patient, Caregiver, and Health Care Provider Perspectives on Hemodialysis Vascular Access Decision-Making: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Schneider Angela R. , Ravani Pietro , King-Shier Kathryn M. , Quinn Robert R. , MacRae Jennifer M. , Love Shannan , Oliver Matthew J. , Hiremath Swapnil , James Matthew T. , Ortiz Mia , Manns Braden R. , Elliott Meghan J.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Updates to the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative Clinical Practice Guideline for Vascular Access emphasize the “right access, in the right patient, at the right time, for the right reasons.” Although this implies a collaborative approach, little is known about how patients, their caregivers, and health care providers engage in vascular access (VA) decision-making.

Objective:

To explore how the perspectives of patients receiving hemodialysis, their caregivers, and hemodialysis care team align and diverge in relation to VA selection.

Design:

Qualitative descriptive study.

Setting:

Five outpatient hemodialysis centers in Calgary, Alberta.

Participants:

Our purposive sample included 19 patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis, 2 caregivers, and 21 health care providers (7 hemodialysis nurses, 6 VA nurses, and 8 nephrologists).

Methods:

We conducted semi-structured interviews with consenting participants. Using an inductive thematic analysis approach, we coded transcripts in duplicate and characterized themes addressing our research objective.

Results:

While participants across roles shared some perspectives related to VA decision-making, we identified areas where views diverged. Areas of alignment included (1) optimizing patient preparedness—acknowledging decisional readiness and timing, and (2) value placed on trusting relationships with the kidney care team—respecting decisional autonomy with guidance. Perspectives diverged in the following aspects: (1) differing VA priorities and preferences—patients’ emphasis on minimizing disruptions to normalcy contrasted with providers’ preferences for fistulas and optimizing biomedical parameters of dialysis; (2) influence of personal and peer experience—patients preferred pragmatic, experiential knowledge, whereas providers emphasized informational credibility; and (3) endpoints for VA review—reassessment of VA decisions was prompted by access dissatisfaction for patients and a medical imperative to achieve a functioning access for health care providers.

Limitations:

Participation was limited to individuals comfortable communicating in English and from urban, in-center hemodialysis units. Few informal caregivers of people receiving hemodialysis and younger patients participated in this study.

Conclusions:

Although patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers share perspectives on important aspects of VA decisions, conflicting priorities and preferences may impact the decisional outcome. Findings highlight opportunities to bridge knowledge and readiness gaps and integrate shared decision-making in the VA selection process.
Co-design of a theory-based implementation plan for a holistic eHealth assessment and decision support framework for people with dementia in care homes
Authors: Gillam Juliet , Evans Catherine , Aworinde Jesutofunmi , Ellis-Smith Clare , Ross Jamie , Davies Nathan
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite positive findings around the use of eHealth in dementia care, it is rarely translated into routine practice. This can be facilitated by early involvement of end-users in the development of an implementation plan. This study aimed to co-design strategies to implement an eHealth intervention, the EMBED-Care Framework, to support assessment and decision-making for people with dementia in care homes.

Methods

A qualitative co-design method was applied through a series of workshops. Participants included family carers and health and social care practitioners. People with dementia were included through a series of stakeholder engagement meetings. The workshops focused on co-developing strategies in response to identified determinants of implementation. A codebook thematic analytic approach was taken, guided by the Normalisation Process Theory (NPT).

Results

Three workshops were conducted from July 2021 to November 2021, attended by 39 participants. Three overarching phases of implementation were identified which aligned with the constructs of the NPT: (a) incentivising adoption of the Framework, which requires promotion of its benefits and alignment with recommendations for good quality dementia care to engage stakeholders, relating to ‘coherence’ and ‘cognitive participation’ constructs; (b) enabling its operation, which requires ensuring compatibility with care home processes, provision of training and support from ‘champions’, relating to ‘collective action’; (c) sustaining use of the Framework, which requires monitoring of implementation and appraisal of its effects, relating to ‘reflexive monitoring’.

Conclusions

We have developed a multi-strategy, theoretically driven plan to implement eHealth to support assessment and decision-making for people with dementia in care homes. Successful implementation requires incentivisation to adopt, ability to operate and motivation to sustain use of eHealth. The plan is strengthened through collaborating with end-users to increase its value, credibility and real-world relevance. The theoretically informed strategies target mechanisms of the NPT, demonstrated to shape the implementation process and outcomes, ready for testing.
Co-designing a digital mental health platform, “Momentum”, with young people aged 7–17: A qualitative study
Authors: Ludlow Kristiana , Russell Jeremy K , Ryan Brooke , Brown Renee L , Joynt Tamsin , Uhlmann Laura R , Smith Genevieve E , Donovan Caroline , Hides Leanne , Spence Susan H , March Sonja , Cobham Vanessa E
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) offer a promising alternative or adjunct treatment method to face-to-face treatment, overcoming barriers associated with stigma, access, and cost. This project is embedded in user experience and co-design to enhance the potential acceptability, usability and integration of digital platforms into youth mental health services.

Objective

To co-design a digital mental health platform that provides self-directed, tailored, and modularised treatment for young people aged 7–17 years experiencing anxiety, depression and other related problems.

Methods

Sixty-eight participants, aged 7–17 years, engaged in one of 20 co-design workshops. Eight workshops involved children (n  =  26, m  =  9.42 years, sd  =  1.27) and 12 involved adolescents (n  =  42, m  =  14.57 years, sd  =  1.89). Participants engaged in a variety of co-design activities (e.g., designing a website home page and rating self-report assessment features). Workshop transcripts and artefacts (e.g., participants’ drawings) were thematically analysed using Gale et al.'s Framework Method in NVivo.

Results

Six themes were identified: Interactive; Relatable; Customisable; Intuitive; Inclusive; and Personalised, transparent and trustworthy content. The analysis revealed differences between children's and adolescents’ designs and ideas, supporting the need for two different versions of the platform, with age-appropriate activities, features, terminology, and content.

Conclusions

This research showcased co-design as a powerful tool to facilitate collaboration with young people in designing DMHIs. Two sets of recommendations were produced: 1) recommendations for the design, functionality, and content of youth DMHIs, supported by child- and adolescent-designed strategies; and 2) recommendations for clinicians and researchers planning to conduct co-design and intervention development research with children and adolescents.
Automated machine learning-based prediction of the progression of knee pain, functional decline, and incidence of knee osteoarthritis in individuals at high risk of knee osteoarthritis: Data from the osteoarthritis initiative study
Authors: Chen Tianrong , Or Calvin Kalun
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to examine the performance of machine learning models in predicting the progression of knee pain, functional decline, and incidence of knee osteoarthritis (OA) in high-risk individuals, with automated machine learning (AutoML) being used to automate the prediction process.

Design

There were four stages in the process of our AutoML-integrated prediction. Stage 1—Data preparation: The data of 3200 eligible individuals in the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) study who were considered at high risk of knee OA at the baseline visit were extracted and used. Specifically, 1094 variables from the OAI study were used to predict the changes in knee pain, physical function, and incidence of knee OA (i.e. the first occurrence of frequent knee symptoms and definite tibial osteophytes (Kellgren and Lawrence grade ≥2)) over a 9-year period. Stage 2—Model training: The AutoML approach was used to automatically train nine widely used machine learning (ML) models. Stage 3—Model testing: The AutoML approach was used to automatically test the performance of the ML models. Stage 4—Selection of important input variables: The AutoML approach automated the process of computing the importance scores of all input variables and identifying the most important ones, using the technique of permutation feature importance.

Results

Using the AutoML approach, the weighted ensemble model and the CatBoost model showed the best performance among all nine ML models. For the prediction of each outcome in each year, the five most important input variables were identified, most of which were obtained from self-reported questionnaire surveys and radiographic imaging reports.

Conclusion

The AutoML approach has shown potential in automating the process of using ML models to predict long-term changes in knee OA-related outcomes. Its use could support the deployment of ML solutions, facilitating the provision of personalized interventions to prevent the deterioration of knee health and incident knee OA.
Part-Time Workers’ Employment Trajectories by Length of Hours and Reason for Working Part-Time: An 8-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Mäkinen Niklas , Tanskanen Jussi , Ojala Satu , Pyöriä Pasi
Published: November 2023

Using the Finnish Labour Force Surveys merged with register-based follow-up data, we analyzed how different characteristics of part-time work predict employees’ and entrepreneurs’ employment trajectories in an 8-year follow-up. We analyzed careers by the length of weekly working hours and the reason for part-time work, that is, childcare, studies, health, part-time pension, other voluntary choice, or if full-time work was not available (involuntary part-time). We applied sequence analysis to define work career clusters based on the continuum of spells spent in different labor market statuses, that is, in upper and lower white-collar, manual, or entrepreneurial employment, unemployment, studying, pensioned, or inactivity. According to the results, involuntary part-timers have a significantly higher probability of entering the unemployment trajectory than full-time workers. Those working part-time hours due to care responsibilities were also more likely to face frequent periods of unemployment, whereas part-time work combined with studies was associated with stable white-collar trajectories. Our results also show that weakened labor outcomes following marginal part-time jobs associate with disability retirement instead of unemployment later in time, most probably determined by ill health. Therefore, we suggest further studies to consider marginal part-time workers’ health as the determinant of weakening career outcomes. Overall, our results highlight the need to improve part-time working conditions, a concern that organizations like the OECD have also raised. This improvement could reduce the risk of unemployment, promote health, extend work careers, and consequently increase the employment rate.
Where’s that bike? Sounds and metrics for a smart bicycle bell
Authors: Edworthy Judy , Brown Rachael , Wessel Connor
Published: November 2023

A bicycle bell is an important safety add-on and is used by the vast majority of bicycle users. Traditional bicycle bells make a single sound based on the construction of the bell, ranging from the gentle ring of a bell to the honk of a horn. A new wave of digital bell is now appearing which can make a range of sounds. One of the challenges of a digital bell is the issue as to what sorts of sounds should be made, how they will be responded to, and whether they are perceived as suitable for use in a digital bell. In this paper we present a study on the localizability of a set of digital bicycle bells, and how they are perceived along a range of relevant perceptual and aesthetic dimensions.
Development of a Smart Learning Application in Multi-person Virtual Reality Using Biometric Measures of Neuroimaging, Eye Tracking, and Haptic Interactions
Authors: Kang Ziho , Palma Fraga Ricardo , Izzoteglu Kurtulus , Lee Junehyung , Deering Daniel D. , Arana Willow X.
Published: November 2023

Non-text-based smart learning refers to technology-supported learning that uses non-text features (i.e. visualized information) and adapted learning materials based on the individual’s needs. Fully immersive multi-person virtual reality (MVR) refers to humans located at different places wearing VR devices to join a single virtual room, a classroom with unlimited size, to learn from an instructor. The learning environment is poised to undergo a major reformation, and MVR will augment, and possibly replace, the traditional classroom learning environment. The ultimate purpose of this research and development of apps is to discover new smart learning methodologies within the MVR environment using nonintrusive multimodal analysis of physiological measures, including eye movement characteristics, haptic interactions, and brain activities. We provide the design concepts that were developed and implemented to create the MVR semantic network app. Furthermore, demonstration details are provided showcasing how we could leverage the MVR technology for education and training.
Virtual Leadership: Bibliometrics, Framework-Based Systematic Review, and Future Agenda
Authors: Banker Darshna V. , Garg Shamita , Maggon Mohita
Published: November 2023

Scholars are increasingly assessing virtual leadership in terms of whether this new way of leading is significantly different from the existing ways of leading or not, and if it is significantly different, what are the key dimensions to study. The current review on virtual leadership synthesizes the knowledge around the ADO-TCM (antecedents, decisions, outcomes, theories, contexts and methods) framework. Based on the previous studies, we provided further insights into the research gaps and the scope for future research. We adopted bibliometric analysis and framework-based systematic review to organize the existing literature on virtual leadership to create meaningful knowledge around virtual leadership. Apart from important bibliometrics, ADO-TCM framework-based SLR offers seven important themes catering to antecedents (2), decisions (3), outcomes (2), theories, contexts and methods. The current study is unique in the virtual leadership domain, wherein we have used the amalgamation of ADO and TCM frameworks to draw an enhanced understanding of virtual leadership.
Mapping the Landscape of Employee Engagement Research: A Bibliometric Review and Future Research Directions
Authors: Baruah Utpal , Raju T. Bangar , Sachdeva Leena
Published: November 2023

Since Kahn first introduced the concept of engagement in 1990, there have been numerous studies and theories exploring employee engagement (EE). Despite the substantial body of research on EE, no comprehensive review has been conducted to provide an overview that maps out the landscape of the field. This gap has resulted in lack of understanding around EE within organizational contexts. Therefore, this study highlights the historical development of EE research thorough a bibliometric review and content analysis of 1313 articles published in 211 Scopus indexed journals from 2002 to 2022. Through the bibliometric analysis, the most frequently cited articles and co-occurring keywords are identified. Using co-citation analysis, articles are grouped into four distinct clusters: ‘employee engagement and organizational commitment’, ‘burnout and employee engagement’, ‘job characteristics and employee engagement’, and ‘employee engagement and organizational performance’. The content analysis method was used to discuss and analyse the most influential articles within each cluster. The findings of this review offer a conceptual understanding of the evolution and development of EE research over time. Additionally, the review highlights key thematic trends within the field, thereby creating future research directions for aspiring researchers.
Unravelling Behavioural Biases in Individual and Institutional Investors Investment Decision- making: Intersection of Bibliometric and Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Maheshwari H  , Samantaray Anup K. , Jena Jyoti Ranjan
Published: November 2023

Over the past two decades, there has been a remarkable increase in research endeavours in exploring behavioural biases within the context of investment decision-making. This growth can be attributed to the growing interest and publication efforts of academic scholars. The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) of the existing academic literature on the influence of behavioural biases on investment decisions (ID), utilizing bibliometric tools. Initially, a corpus of approximately 124 research papers was gathered by conducting a keyword search in the Scopus database. These papers were then subjected to inclusion and exclusion criteria, resulting in a final selection of 82 papers for in-depth analysis. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOS-viewer software, which identified the most prolific articles, authors and journals in the field. Moreover, a thematic analysis was performed to identify six clusters of author keywords, which were further grouped into three broader themes. This process shed light on the connections and patterns prevalent in the study of behavioural biases in investment decision-making. Crucially, keywords with the lowest link strength and co-occurrences played a vital role in identifying potential areas for future research. Additionally, the study identified approximately 50 research articles published from 30 top journals with the highest citations and h-index for further investigation. By following this systematic process, the study not only highlights gaps in the existing literature but also provides valuable insights for future endeavours. Ultimately, this study serves as a roadmap for guiding further investigations in the field of behavioural biases and their influence on ID. By delving into the relationships and themes surrounding these biases, the research aims to contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge in this domain.
Cost of maternal complications and its associated factors among mothers attending Hawassa public hospitals, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Loko Dassalegn , Ayele Angefa , Dessie Yadata , Hawulte Behailu , Ayele Gudeta , Tolossa Tadesse
Published: November 2023

Background:

The cost of maternal complications is considered as an important factor hindering the utilization of maternal health care services. However, information of estimate of spending on maternal complication was lacking. This study was aimed to estimate the cost of maternal complications and associated factors among mother’s attending Hawassa public hospitals, Sidama Regional state, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study design was conducted among 348 randomly selected mothers attending public hospitals in Hawassa from November 15 to December 15, 2021. Data was coded and entered into Epi Data version 3.1 and exported to STATA version 16.0 for analysis. Simple and multiple linear regression analysis was done. Correlation coefficient along with 95% CI was used to present the finding and p < 0.05 was used to declare statistical significance.

Results:

This study found that total median cost of maternal complications was 4895.5 (IQR = 3779) ETB. The total median direct medical cost was 1765.5 (IQR = 1649.5) ETB. Number of days absent [( R = 0.028; 95% CI: (0.023, 0.033)], distance from facility [( R = 0.001; 95% CI: (0.000, 0.002)], site of laboratory diagnosis [( R = 0.230; 95% CI: (0.140, 0.320)], number of laboratory test conducted [( R = 0.045; 95% CI: (0.021, 0.069)] were found to be significance predictors of maternal complications costs.

Conclusions:

Total median cost of maternal complications in current study was high. Respondents’ site of diagnosis, number of days missed from work, number of laboratory tests, and distance from hospitals were independent predictors of maternal complications cost. Thus, we will recommend governments to introduce strategies that specifically help mothers with maternal complications.
A Novel Homozygous Variant in the CHRNE Gene in 2 Siblings with Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome
Authors: Chan Cassie , Emery Lucy , Maltese Caroline , Kumar Ashutosh , Aliu Ermal , Naik Sunil , Paul Dustin
Published: November 2023

Cholinergic receptor nicotinic epsilon (CHRNE) subunit mutations cause postsynaptic type of congenital myasthenic syndrome either as a primary acetylcholine-receptor deficiency or abnormal channel kinetics in the receptor. We report a novel homozygous variant (c.322C > T, p.Pro108Ser) in the epsilon subunit causing primary acetylcholine-receptor deficiency in two siblings. Two siblings presented with fatigable weakness. Both siblings had whole exome sequencing showing a homozygous variant (c.322C > T, p.Pro108Ser) of unknown significance in the epsilon subunit. Electromyography/nerve conduction study with repetitive nerve stimulation on one sibling showed a defect in neuromuscular junction transmission. Pseudoephedrine and fluoxetine for suspected slow-channel congenital myasthenic syndrome yielded no improvement. A trial of pyridostigmine led to clinical improvement. Given the clinical presentation, consanguinity, homozygous genetic variant, and response to pyridostigmine, we rationalize the homozygous variant (c.322C > T, p.Pro108Ser) in cholinergic receptor nicotinic epsilon subunit causes the primary acetylcholine-receptor deficiency congenital myasthenic syndrome.
Evaluations of Student's Satisfaction with Externship Education in the Academic Departments of the Medical School of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences in July and August 2021
Authors: Keramati Ali , Rezaei Mnsour , Veisipour Mohammad , Esmaeli Mojtaba
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVES

Determining the level of satisfaction in each field will help to examine and eliminate the existing problems and shortcomings. Using this information, students’ satisfaction can be provided as much as possible while strengthening the positive factors and correcting the negative factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Student's Satisfaction with externship Education in the Academic Departments of the Medical School of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences in 2021.

METHODS

This descriptive cross-sectional study, was performed in the medical school of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences. The statistical population was all externship students. The validity of the questionnaire's content was determined by consulting experts, and its reliability was obtained by Cronbach's alpha method based on a sample of 20 students. The questionnaires were completed virtually on the Google site using the Google Form. Data analysis was performed Stata V14.2 software using descriptive statistics, t-test, and chi-square, and the significant level was considered 0.05.

RESULTS

The results showed that 55% of the participants were female and 45% were male. The level of students ‘satisfaction with the quality of supervisors’ education was moderate to high and in other cases was moderate to low. Students were more satisfied with teaching anesthesia than other departments and were dissatisfied with the infectious department. No statistically significant difference was found between people's satisfaction with the overall clinical education process in terms of age.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that students have moderate to poor satisfaction with externship education in educational groups.
Epigenetics Mechanisms of Honeybees: Secrets of Royal Jelly
Authors: Alhosin Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

Early diets in honeybees have effects on epigenome with consequences on their phenotype. Depending on the early larval diet, either royal jelly (RJ) or royal worker, 2 different female castes are generated from identical genomes, a long-lived queen with fully developed ovaries and a short-lived functionally sterile worker. To generate these prominent physiological and morphological differences between queen and worker, honeybees utilize epigenetic mechanisms which are controlled by nutritional input. These mechanisms include DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications, mainly histone acetylation. In honeybee larvae, DNA methylation and histone acetylation may be differentially altered by RJ. This diet has biologically active ingredients with inhibitory effects on the de novo methyltransferase DNMT3A or the histone deacetylase 3 HDAC3 to create and maintain the epigenetic state necessary for developing larvae to generate a queen. DNMT and HDAC enzymes work together to induce the formation of a compacted chromatin structure, repressing transcription. Such dialog could be coordinated by their association with other epigenetic factors including the ubiquitin-like containing plant homeodomain (PHD) and really interesting new gene (RING) ﬁnger domains 1 (UHRF1). Through its multiple functional domains, UHRF1 acts as an epigenetic reader of both DNA methylation patterns and histone marks. The present review discusses the epigenetic regulation of honeybee’s chromatin and how the early diets in honeybees can affect the DNA/histone modifying types of machinery that are necessary to stimulate the larvae to turn into either queen or worker. The review also looks at future directions in epigenetics mechanisms of honeybees, mainly the potential role of UHRF1 in these mechanisms.