bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fairness as a Robust Utilitarianism
Authors: Liu Maoqi , Meng Qingchun , Yu Guodong , Zhang Zhi-Hai
Published: June 2024

This article focuses on the social choice problem in which decisions are based on the utility of multiple stakeholder types. The sum of these utilities—Utilitarian welfare—is one of the most important objectives in solving the social choice problem. While it is the most efficient solution, maximizing Utilitarian welfare may lead to unfair outcomes. However, Encouraging a Utilitarian decision-maker to adopt a fair decision is challenging due to the associated efficiency loss. This article takes a novel perspective by motivating a Utilitarian decision-maker to make fair decisions from an uncertainty-averse standpoint. We study the problem where the proportions of stakeholder types are uncertain and propose a distributionally robust optimization (DRO) model that maximizes the worst-case Utilitarian welfare over an [Formula: see text]-divergence-based uncertainty set. We provide three aspects of the relationship between fairness and the uncertain-averse Utilitarian welfare maximization. First, we establish that the worst-case Utilitarian welfare adheres to all five axioms of unfairness-averse cardinal welfare functions with two stakeholder types and satisfies four of these when this number exceeds two. Second, we demonstrate that with the maximal extent of uncertainty aversion, the DRO model identifies the Egalitarian welfare maximizer, which prioritizes fairness. Furthermore, given several conventional assumptions, the proposed model selects the Nash welfare maximizer, an objective trade-off between efficiency and fairness, with moderate levels of uncertainty aversion. Lastly, we present numerical studies of two specific instances of the social choice problem—resource allocation and facility location—to show that, as uncertainty aversion increases, our model increasingly emphasizes fairness.
Cultural Influences on Privacy Calculus in Loyalty Programs: An Analysis of Individual and National-Level Cultural Values
Authors: Balabanis George , Stathopoulou Anastasia , Balabanis John
Published: June 2024

This study examines the roles played by cultural factors in shaping consumer privacy concerns within loyalty programs, analyzing responses from 1,259 consumers across four culturally diverse countries. It uncovers how variations in cultural dimensions, specifically uncertainty avoidance and individualism/collectivism, influence privacy concerns, trust, and loyalty toward retailers. The research reveals that individual-level uncertainty avoidance and collective cultural norms notably amplify privacy concerns, shedding light on the nuanced relationship between cultural values and consumer perceptions in the context of loyalty programs. This exploration contributes to a deeper understanding of cultural diversity's theoretical and practical implications on privacy concerns, offering insights vital for retailers looking to navigate the complexities of consumer trust and loyalty in a global marketplace. The findings underscore the necessity for culturally informed strategies to effectively manage privacy concerns.
Severe Hyperthermia in Mountaineering: Coincidence of Heat Stroke and Infection
Authors: Huber Tobias , Egger Alexander , Heschl Stefan
Published: June 2024

Heat illness is a condition that is sometimes seen in those undertaking physical activities. This case report focuses on a female hiker who developed heat stroke during a trek in the Dachstein region of Upper Austria. The patient's presentation was initially unclear and could only be confirmed by the use of a thermometer. This had a significant impact on the medical decision-making process during a complex rescue operation.
Understanding and Employing Formative Constructs: Conceptualization, Operationalization, and Threats of Misspecification
Authors: Berbekova Adiyukh , Kock Florian , Assaf A. George , Josiassen Alexander
Published: June 2024

While tourism researchers devote large efforts to justify and test the theoretical relationships between constructs, the links between items and their respective constructs receive very little deliberate attention. This is because the relationship between construct and item is, often incorrectly, assumed to be reflective, meaning that the measurement items reflect the construct. In contrast to reflective constructs, for formative constructs, measurement items form the construct. In Study 1, we show empirically that 43.7% of the employed measures in the leading tourism journals are misspecified, and thus incorrectly conceptualized and operationalized: Formative constructs are frequently being mistaken for reflective constructs. In Study 2, we empirically demonstrate the threats and consequences of misspecification. In response, this research addresses the neglect of formative constructs, fosters their understanding, and explains how to conceptualize, operationalize, and estimate formative constructs in future research.
Application of modified no-touch technique in rabbit arteriovenous fistula model and its effect on venous neointimal hyperplasia
Authors: Donghua Gu , Zhen Liu , Xiaohe Wang , Guocun Hou , Lei Shen
Published: June 2024

Background:

To investigate the technical advantages of a modified no-touch technique (MNTT) in constructing arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) compared to the conventional technique (CT) and assess its potential to reduce neointimal hyperplasia in the outflow vein.

Methods:

Forty-seven New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into three groups: control, CT, and MNTT. Rabbits in control group were observed using ultrasound and then euthanized to obtain external jugular vein (EJV) for Hematoxylin-eosin (H-E). We established common carotid artery (CCA)-EJV AVF using MNTT in the MNTT group and the CT in the CT group. AVF patency and complications were compared between the CT and MNTT groups. Rabbits with patent AVF in both groups were observed using ultrasound 2 weeks after surgery to evaluate changes in the vessel diameter and blood flow spectrum of the AVFs. H-E staining measured the intima thickness of EJV adjacent to the anastomosis and histologic characteristics of the AVF at 2 and 4 weeks after surgery.

Results:

Five rabbits died after surgery with common symptoms of sneezing, coughing, runny nose, anorexia, and diarrhea; two in the MNTT group and three in the CT group. There were significant differences in the diameter ( p = 0.010) and peak systolic velocities (PSV) ( p = 0.001) of EJV between the CT and MNTT groups 2 weeks after surgery. Spiral laminar flow (SLF) was observed in CCA and EJV adjacent to anastomosis in the MNTT group. Additionally, histological observations showed less venous neointimal hyperplasia in the MNTT group than in the CT group 4 weeks after surgery.

Conclusion:

The rabbit model of CCA-EJV AVF established using MNTT demonstrated fewer com plications, larger vein diameters, and reduced venous neointimal hyperplasia, indicating that this maybe an ideal animal model to further investigate the application of MNTT in AVF surgery.
Giorgia on their minds: Vote switching to Fratelli d’Italia in the Italian general election of 2022
Authors: Puleo Leonardo , Carteny Giuseppe , Piccolino Gianluca
Published: June 2024

In the context of the ongoing deinstitutionalisation of the Italian party system, Fratelli d’Italia (FdI) emerged as the most voted-for party in the 2022 general election. Although previous studies categorised FdI as a populist radical right (PRR) party, no research has so far been conducted on its voters. We examine whether the traditional explanations for the rise of PRR parties also apply to FdI. We develop a theoretical argument suggesting that in the context of over-crowded competition amongst populist parties, as seen in Italy, leadership evaluation trumps policy and ideological consideration in predicting vote switching. Our results reveal that positive evaluations of Giorgia Meloni emerge as the most significant predictor of voters switching to FdI in the 2022 election. This research sheds light on individual-level mainstreaming of PRR attitudes and preferences, in particular during an electorally expansive phase, emphasising the role of leadership evaluations in voting behaviour in a context characterised by intense populist competition.
The extended contact asymmetry: Authoritarians benefit more from positive but do not suffer more from negative extended intergroup contact
Authors: Pollmanns Claas , Van Assche Jasper
Published: June 2024

Contact with outgroup members can serve as a powerful demonstration of the quality of intergroup norms to other ingroup members. This extended contact of fellow ingroup members with outgroup members is known to positively affect intergroup attitudes. Research has demonstrated a positive relationship between positive extended contact and positive intergroup attitudes—even for those most prone to prejudice, such as those high in authoritarianism. However, little is known about the relationship between negative extended contact and intergroup attitudes, or about its interaction with authoritarianism. With correlational data from seven samples (totaling 2,760 respondents across four countries), we ran an internal meta-analysis examining the relationships of positive and negative extended contact with attitudes towards immigrants for group members of advantaged ethnic-cultural groups. The analysis controlled for direct contact and relevant demographic variables to ensure robustness. We considered right-wing authoritarianism (RWA) and its subdimensions as a moderator of these relationships. As expected, positive extended contact showed a stronger relationship with attitudes towards immigrants for high authoritarians. Unexpectedly, negative extended contact showed no interaction with authoritarianism. Put differently, negative extended contact showed a similarly large relationship with intergroup attitudes among high and low authoritarians. These results reveal an extended contact asymmetry: positive intergroup norms created by positive extended contact promote tolerance among authoritarians, whereas negative extended contact does not particularly harm those individuals more. Contrary to our expectations, the analysis of RWA’s subdimensions did not reveal further insights. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed in light of the current debates on norm-setting and intergroup tensions.
Pedestrian wintertime slip and fall injuries—effectiveness of weather warning service in prevention
Authors: Ruuhela Reija , Hippi Marjo , Hartonen Sari
Published: June 2024

Background and aim:

In climates with wintry conditions, slip and fall injuries of pedestrians during wintertime can result in high healthcare and societal costs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of early warnings about slipperiness in preventing such injuries in Finland. Since 2004, the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) has been providing a weather service for pedestrians, which has been developed continuously over time.

Data and methods:

Time series of pedestrian slip and fall injuries in commuting on foot in the 19 regions of Finland in 2005–2022 was obtained from the Finnish Workers’ Compensation Center and analysed for trends. We also analysed daily warnings about slippery sidewalks from the FMI archives for the period 2011–2022. To identify steps in the service chain that require improvement, we conducted a weather service chain analysis (WSCA) based on a slip and fall accident storyline.

Results:

There was no significant trend in the number of slipping injuries during the study period. The exposure of the Finnish population to slippery conditions varies according to the climate of the region and characteristics of the winters. We found that the responses of the users of the warning information may be inadequate.

Conclusions:

Changes in the behaviour of individuals and more efficient winter maintenance of sidewalks are required. Furthermore, it is necessary to promote the role and safety of walking in the planning of traffic systems and urban planning. Further improvements to the pedestrian weather service are needed as well.
User acceptance of neuroanatomy virtual reality course: Contrasting views between undergraduate and postgraduate students
Authors: Sumunar Dimas Septian Eko Wahyu , Stathakarou Natalia , Davoody Nadia
Published: June 2024

Virtual Reality (VR) offers cost-efficient and effective tools for spatial 3-dimensional neuroanatomy learning. Enhancing users-system relationship is necessary for successful adoption of the system. The current study aimed to evaluate students’ acceptance of VR for neuroanatomy. An exploratory qualitative case study based on Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework carried out at the Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden. Participants in this study were students participating in a VR session, followed by a semi-structured interview. Deductive framework analysis employed to retrieve students’ perspective and experience. A total of six undergraduate and 13 postgraduate students participated in this study. The following UTAUT constructs validated to be significant: Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy and Facilitating Conditions. System usability, depth of lesson and hardware optimizations are among concern for further improvements. In conclusion, students are accepting VR as a neuroanatomy learning resource. The findings of this research highlight the importance of system performance and user-centred approach in technology development for educational purposes.
Experimental investigation on mechanical performance of cotton fiber reinforced epoxy composites for agriculture applications
Authors: Wankhede Bipin , Bisaria Himanshu , Dakre Vinayak S , Singh Sushil K
Published: June 2024

This research paper investigates the influence of different weight percentages (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) of cotton fiber reinforcement in epoxy composites on their mechanical properties. The mechanical characteristics examined include flexural strength, tensile strength, fracture toughness, impact strength, and hardness. The interfacial properties of the composites were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Thermal and thermo-mechanical properties were examined using thermogravimetric analysis and dynamic mechanical analysis, respectively. The findings revealed that the addition of 15 wt.% cotton fiber in epoxy composites led to notable improvements in various mechanical properties. As the weight percentage of cotton fiber increased, the fracture and tensile properties of the composites showed a gradual improvement until reaching 15 wt.%. However, additional increments in weight percentage did not lead to significant improvements in the mechanical properties. Flexural strength and hardness showed a decreasing trend with increasing cotton fiber weight percentage, whereas impact strength showed an increasing trend. The SEM micrograph of the fracture surface revealed fiber pull-out, matrix cracking, interfacial debonding, and an uneven surface.
An intersectional perspective on the impacts and responses of entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany
Authors: David Alexandra , Terstriep Judith , Schäfer Susann , Schmidt Armando García
Published: June 2024

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, research is swiftly progressing to comprehend the impact on solo self-employed individuals and microenterprises. Although there is unanimous agreement within the literature that this unprecedented event has profoundly affected businesses globally, evidence regarding these impacts’ precise direction and extent remains inconclusive. A limited understanding exists concerning the various intersecting factors influencing entrepreneurs’ affectedness and coping strategies. This article employs qualitative interview data to examine how entrepreneurs from knowledge-intensive services and retail and hospitality sectors in Germany experienced, navigated and responded to the multifaceted challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Results reveal that factors at the intersection of sector affiliation, gender, migrant background and care/parental responsibilities determine entrepreneurs’ affectedness and shape their coping strategies, including using state aid programmes. Highlighting distinct combinations of intersecting factors, we contribute to advancing the ongoing scholarly discourse on crisis dynamics and intersectionality in entrepreneurship and policymaking.
The Relationship Between the hOGG1 rs1052133 Polymorphism and the Occurrence of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Li Guanglie , Yao Jijin , Zhang Fan , Xu Xiwei , Wang Siyang
Published: June 2024

Objectives: Exploring the relationship between the hOGG1 rs1052133 polymorphism and the occurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, CNKI, Wanfangdata, and VIP were used to search for studies and the NOS evaluation scale was used to evaluate the quality. All studies were grouped according to different genotypes. The Cochrane's Q test and I2 test were used for heterogeneity evaluations. If heterogeneity was small, the fixed effects model was used, and conversely, the random effects model was used. Publication bias was also detected. P < .05 in all results indicated statistically significant. Results: We ultimately included 6 studies with 2021 NPC patients in the study group and 2375 healthy populations in the control group. After meta-analysis, it was found that the total OR value of the “Ser/Cys (CG) vs Ser/Ser (CC)” group was 1.00 (95% CI: 0.85-1.18) and the “Cys/Cys (GG) vs Ser/Ser (CC)” group was 1.06 (95% CI: 0.87-1.28). These results were not statistically significant (P > .05). Furthermore, the integrated total OR values of each group were not statistically significant with or without the smoking history, even in other genotype models (Allele, Dominant, Recessive, and Additive) (P > .05). Conclusion: There is no clear correlation between the hOGG1 rs1052133 polymorphism and the occurrence of NPC, even with or without the smoking history.
Designing Identity Transformations Through Transformative Learning Objectives and Experiential Learning Competencies
Authors: Rowan Jamin C. , Duerden Mat D.
Published: June 2024

Educators can help adult learners experience identity transformation and initiate lifelong learning by designing curriculum centered upon transformative learning objectives (TLOs) and experiential learning competencies (ELCs). TLOs point learners to the specific ways of thinking, feeling, and being in the world to which a course or other learning experience aspires. Educators might deepen the capacity for adult learners to experience transformation by creating curricula that help them develop ELCs—competencies that will enable them to learn how to learn from experience. Building educational experiences around TLOs and ELCs will not only increase the ability of adult learners to continue to learn after a course or program ends but will also increase the likelihood that their lifelong learning experiences will be transformative ones.
Robotic Beating-Heart Totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass: Impact of Chest Wall Dimensions in Single and Multivessel Bypass
Authors: Watanabe Tatsuya , Kitahara Hiroto , Nisivaco Sarah , Coleman Charocka , Patel Brooke , Balkhy Husam H.
Published: June 2024

Objective:

There can be anatomical constraints on patient selection for minimally invasive surgery. For example, robot-assisted coronary artery bypass was reported to be more challenging when patients had a cardiothoracic ratio >50% and a sternum-vertebra anteroposterior and transverse diameter ratio <0.45. We sought to examine the impact of chest wall anatomic parameters on surgical outcomes in our totally endoscopic coronary artery bypass (TECAB) procedures.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent robotic TECAB, all of whom had a preoperative chest radiograph at our institution from July 2017 to October 2021. The cohort was divided into 2 groups, which were patients undergoing single-vessel grafting using the left internal thoracic artery (ITA; group 1) and patients undergoing multivessel grafting with bilateral ITA grafts (group 2). We measured several anatomical parameters from the preoperative chest radiograph.

Results:

A total of 352 patients undergoing TECAB were retrospectively analyzed. After exclusions, 193 were included in this study. In group 1 ( n = 91), no parameters correlated with operative time. In group 2 ( n = 102), a significant negative correlation was observed between operative time and the sternum-vertebrae anteroposterior diameter ( rs = −0.228, P = 0.022) and lung anteroposterior diameter ( rs = −0.246, P = 0.013). To confirm these results in group 2, a propensity-matched analysis was performed and showed a statistically significant difference in surgical time based on chest anteroposterior diameters.

Conclusions:

In single-vessel robotic TECAB, chest wall anatomic dimensions measured on chest radiograph did not affect operative time. In multivessel cases with bilateral ITA grafts, larger anteroposterior diameter correlated with shorter operative times.
Coming to Grips With Benign Prostate Enlargement or Prostate Cancer in Contemporary Japan: Readings From a Cancer-Self
Authors: Castro-Vázquez Genaro
Published: June 2024

This article explores how a group of 35 Japanese men comprehend and verbalize the somatic experience embedded in dealing with benign prostate enlargement, or disquiet/discomfort of developing prostate cancer. Grounded in an adaptation of the sexual scripts theorizing, a set of in-depth, semistructured individual interviews were conducted through a LINE-app videocall from 2021 to 2023. Outcomes of interview were analyzed through a conversational approach, and presented by using three axes: the body, gender, and sexuality. An understanding of the Japanese-civilized-self has rendered somatic knowing problematic and pretended ignorance a strategy to deal with conversations about a condition involving the genitals and body waste. The body refers to a cancer-self who copes with ignorance of the prostate’s anatomy and physiology, the-mechanics-of-urine, and medication/treatment side-effects. Gender is concerned with a cancer-self who grapples with an ailment that “emasculates the self,” and the feminization of care as well as infantilization at medical facilities. Sexuality implies a cancer-self who bears scripts related to asexuality, medication/treatments that affect libido and penile erections, and a tarnished sexual reputation as a “heterosexual man” because prostate stimulation has been associate with homosexuality.
Developing the Initial Programme Theories on Health Research Capacity Strengthening of African Universities: A Realist Synthesis Protocol
Authors: Mutua Meshack Nzesei , Harding Andrew , Pulford Justin
Published: June 2024

Background: Health research capacity strengthening (HRCS) has been deemed as a complex, multifaceted, and dynamic activity. Despite this, most studies that assess the effectiveness of health research capacity strengthening programmes have not employed complexity-aware approaches and therefore, evidence on how and why such programmes work across different contexts is underdeveloped. This realist study seeks to elicit the initial programme theories (IPTs) that describe how and why the ‘Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training and Science Africa’ (DELTAS Africa) programme – one of the flagship research capacity strengthening programmes in Africa – works to generate research capacity outcomes specifically in the participating African universities. Methods and Analysis: A realist review of the DELTAS Africa programme documents, and relevant published papers that report on similar research capacity interventions will be carried out. This will help to both identify the outcome pathways and underlying assumptions of the DELTAS Africa programme, as well as tacit theories as postulated by other researchers. The review evidence will inform the drafting of the initial programme theories (IPTs). Interviews with the DELTAS Africa programme designing team will be conducted using a realist interviewing technique to unearth ontologically deeper insights on context, mechanism, and outcomes. Using the realist context-mechanism-outcome configurational maps, we will identify how contexts (i.e., within the African universities) shape mechanisms (the processes, reasoning, or behaviours triggered by the HRCS activities) through which the programme brings about an outcome at institutional level. Conclusion: The initial programme theories will describe how and why health research capacity strengthening works, for whom and under what circumstances across the participating African universities. The programme theories will provide policy-relevant insights on the generative causal mechanisms of HRCS; evidence that is critically needed to inform the design, implementation, and evaluation of HRCS initiatives.
Temporal trends of sex differences in acute reperfusion therapy and early outcomes of acute ischemic stroke in South Korea: 10-year analysis of the nationwide stroke registry
Authors: Chung Darda , Lee Ji Sung , Oh Mi-Sun , Park Jong-Moo , Chung Jong-Won , Bang Oh Young , Kim Gyeong-Moon , Seo Woo-Keun
Published: June 2024

Background:

Sex differences in stroke outcomes are notable, with women experiencing higher incidence rates, greater disability-adjusted life years, and poorer recovery compared to men, even after adjusting for age and comorbidities. Despite the disproportionate burden in women, studies have reported that women are less likely to receive appropriate stroke treatment than men.

Aim:

This study investigated temporal trends of sex differences in acute reperfusion therapy and early outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke over 10 years in South Korea.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of Korean Stroke Registry included patients with acute ischemic stroke from 2012 to 2021. The study outcomes were the temporal trends of acute reperfusion therapy and early outcomes over 10 years in men and women, respectively. In addition, this study analyzed the temporal trends of sex differences in these parameters during the same period. Early outcomes include the proportions of favorable functional outcomes at discharge, discharge patterns, and in-hospital mortality.

Results:

A total of 93,692 patients (68.4 years, 40.1% women) with acute ischemic stroke were finally enrolled. Women had a higher age at stroke onset, a higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation, and more severe strokes than men. Women had lower proportion of favorable functional outcomes at discharge and higher proportion of in-hospital mortality compared to men each year. The proportion of patients who received intravenous thrombolysis was lower or similar in women compared to men in most years, and the proportion of patients who received endovascular thrombectomy did not significantly differ between sexes annually. Sex differences in acute reperfusion therapy remained unchanged over 10 years.

Conclusion:

Women have received acute reperfusion therapy at similar or lower rates than men and experienced poorer outcomes, despite having more stroke risk factors and often more severe strokes.
Between-microcycle variability of external soccer training loads through the evaluation of a contemporary periodisation training model ‘CUPs’
Authors: Owen Adam , Weston Matthew , Clancy Colin
Published: June 2024

Objective

Variation in training load is consistently demonstrated within weekly microcycles in soccer, yet less is known of load variations between the same weekday sessions across different microcycles. Our study aim was to examine between-microcycle variability in key measures of external training load.

Methods

Thirty-seven professional soccer players participated in this observational study which took place across the clubs' initial 8-week in-season mesocycle of the 2022/23 season. During this mesocycle, each 1-week microcycle consisted of four distinct classifications of training session (Matchday (MD)-4, MD-3, MD-2, and MD-1, and one match (Saturday). External load data (total distance, high-intensity (>5.5 m.s) distance, high-intensity accelerations (>3 m/s2), and percentage (%) of maximal speed attained) were collected across 564 training sessions (MD-4 = 123, MD-3 = 148, MD-2 = 130, MD-1 = 163). Data were analysed with mixed linear modelling.

Results

When compared to the first microcycle, substantial week-to-week variation was evident for each of the four training session classifications, ranging from 1244 m to 2248 m for total distance, 80 m to 197 m for high-intensity distance, 11 to 25 for high-intensity accelerations, and 10.2 percentage points to 15.4 percentage points for % maximal speed.

Conclusion

Our data show that despite training sessions having a consistency of planned training stimulus across an 8-week mesocycle, external load varied between microcycles. Nevertheless, within-player variability on the same day relative to matchday indicated a more consistent stimulus for key training variables relevant to specific training days.
Uncovering the roles of complexity and expertise in memorizing tactical movements from videos with coach's pointing gestures and guided gaze
Authors: Chikha Houssem Ben , Mguidich Hajer , Zoudji Bachir , Khacharem Aïmen
Published: June 2024

Background

Improving the acquisition of complex tactical knowledge through video presentations has attracted considerable attention. Previous research has aimed to facilitate learning by structuring videos including pointing gestures and guided gaze. However, it is debatable whether these cues actually contribute to improved performance in the context of tactical learning for players with varying levels of expertise.

Objectives

The present study examined the moderating roles of content complexity and expertise level on recall scores, mental effort, and visual attention while watching videos involving coach's pointing gestures and guided gaze, as well as videos with no cues.

Methods

One hundred sixty novice and expert basketball learners were randomly divided into four groups: (i) simple content + no-cues, (ii) simple content + gesture/gaze, (iii) more complex content + no-cues, and (iv) more complex content + gesture/cues. They were instructed to learn the evolution of a tactical scene described by the coach, rate their mental effort invested during the learning phase, and reproduce the learned tactical scene.

Results and conclusions

The results showed that regardless of the complexity of the content, novices achieved better recall performance and higher visual attention in the gesture/gaze condition than in the no-cues condition. However, the results showed that experts benefited equally from both conditions when the content was simple, whereas they benefited more from the gesture/gaze condition when the content was more complex. The results showed that the effectiveness of videos involving pointing gestures and guided gaze depends on the content complexity and the expertise level.
Beneath the surface: A historical exploration of trepanation practices across cultures and eras
Authors: Bates Ann
Published: June 2024

This research article explores the ancient origins of trepanation, unravelling its early instances and the associated cultural beliefs that have shaped cranial surgery. It scrutinises the medieval and Renaissance periods, elucidating the evolution of trepanation techniques within the context of advancements in medical knowledge and societal changes. In addition, the research investigates the diverse practices of trepanation across cultures, offering insights into the unique approaches, beliefs and rituals associated with this ancient surgical procedure. Examining the decline of trepanation in mainstream medicine, the article assesses the factors contributing to its diminishing prevalence and the emergence of alternative surgical methods. The study also delves into sporadic resurgences of trepanation in unconventional contexts, providing a nuanced understanding of its enduring fascination. In exploring trepanation’s impact on modern medicine, the article sheds light on its contributions to the study of cranial anatomy, the evolution of surgical tools and the broader narrative of medical progress. Ultimately, this historical investigation contributes to a comprehensive understanding of trepanation, revealing the intricate interplay between medicine, culture and the human quest for knowledge and healing.
Pregnancy in women on dialysis – A case series – Challenges in achieving evidence-based care
Authors: De Souza Laura , Pham Duc , Craven Ann-Maree , Sekar Renuka , Jesudason Shilpanjali , Ratanjee Sharad , Walker Wallace , Ranganathan Dwarakanathan
Published: June 2024

Background

Pregnancies in women on dialysis remain rare but are increasing in numbers.

Methods

Retrospective observational audit of seven cases from 1977 to 2022 of all women who conceived prior to dialysis or conceived whilst on dialysis.

Results

Of a total of seven women, three were referred from regional centres in Australia, between the 6 and 20 weeks of gestation, generally without any opportunity for pre-conception counselling. Five were managed with intensive haemodialysis aiming for six sessions per week; one patient continued peritoneal dialysis until birth by caesarean section. Five women out of seven had live births, two of which were conceived whilst on dialysis. Four were delivered prematurely between 27 and 31 weeks of gestation, and one at term via spontaneous vaginal delivery.

Conclusions

Outcomes for women with pregnancies on dialysis benefit from intensive dialysis management however the practical implementation remains challenging. Our cases highlight the diversity of experience in our centre across two decades.
Microbial metabolites as a way to provide crosstalk between gut and liver
Authors: Dekker Nitert Marloes , Ovadia Caroline
Published: June 2024

Bile acid metabolism is partially regulated through the activity of the gut microbiota. Primary bile acids can be deconjugated and modified by bacteria expressing bile salt hydrolase and other enzymes, changing bile acid recycling by changing the interactions between enterocytes and hepatocytes. The modified bile acids can also activate signalling in cells regulating metabolism including colonic L-cells, skeletal muscle cells and brown adipocytes. In pregnancy, both bile acid metabolism and gut microbiota composition are altered. In women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, the changes in bile acid metabolism are exacerbated and there is some evidence that the gut microbiota composition is also altered. Here we review the crosstalk between the liver and the gut especially in women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, with a focus on the role of the gut microbiota in this crosstalk.
Understanding English Language Arts Teachers’ Listening Orientations in Middle School Gifted Classrooms
Authors: Gilson Cindy M. , Bruce-Davis Micah N. , Lamm Erica J.
Published: June 2024

Within gifted education, discourse-based instructional methods, such as Socratic Seminars, are identified as strategies to support the development of gifted and advanced readers’ critical thinking skills. While research on dialogic discourse has centered on key components such as discourse patterns and the types of questions teachers ask, the unique nature of teachers’ listening has a limited research base. In this qualitative study, we examined five teachers’ perceptions, focusing on one teacher as an illustrative case, of their listening during dialogic discourse-based lessons with gifted and advanced readers. Major themes included that (a) teachers’ listening is multifaceted and individualized, (b) teachers listen for certain reasons, (c) teachers’ expectations inform their and their students’ roles during discourse, and (d) teachers’ listening is related to their belief systems, and (e) there are barriers to effective listening. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Inhibiting the PD-1/PD-L1 Pathway in the Treatment of Gastric and Colon Cancers
Authors: Zhu XingHui , Wang ShuJie , Xie Lie , Chen DongMei , Zhao MingRui , Liu XiaoMing , Fan ZhiChao , Cheng CiSong
Published: June 2024

Immune checkpoint regulation is a negative feedback regulatory mechanism in the body, and sequential death receptor-1 (PD-1) and programmed death receptor ligand-1 (PD-L1) are known as immune checkpoints. The PD-1/PD-L1 pathway inhibits the activity of effector T cells through a negative regulatory mechanism to avoid excessive response-induced body damage. PD-L1 is highly expressed in many tumor tissues, and high PD-L1 expression can ultimately lead to tumor immune escape. Therefore, immune checkpoint blockade with inhibition of negative immune regulation therapy has become a cutting-edge hot spot for antitumor therapy, with the main target molecules being PD-1 and PD-L1. Recent years have seen promising progress in the study of traditional Chinese medicines and their effects on gastric and colon cancers, particularly in relation to the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway mechanisms. This review specifically examines the modulation of the PD-L1 pathway by certain traditional Chinese medicines in gastric and colon cancers, aiming to provide insights for the development of innovative drugs for these types of digestive cancers.
Advocacy in Action: NASN’s 2024 Advocacy and Legislative Priorities
Authors: Hlinomaz Joan , Largent Piper
Published: June 2024

All nurses have a responsibility to advocate. Advocacy is the eighth school nurse standard and can be actualized in many ways. NASN has established advocacy priorities to provide members with strategic advocacy objectives to advance their school nursing practice. One aspect of these priorities is legislative advocacy. The NASN board of directors puts legislative advocacy into action when they visit their Congress members on Capitol Hill. This article describes NASN’s advocacy priorities and how school nurse visits to “the Hill” introduces legislative priorities to legislators.
The valorization of interactions. Gift exchange, power and value creation on digital platforms
Authors: Nachtwey Oliver , Schaupp Simon
Published: June 2024

Technology companies are often worth billions, but they still must make their money through advertising. The research literature on the value creation of data-driven platform companies often refers to the expropriation of data or the exploitation of users. This article proposes a relational approach to the understanding of value creation on digital platforms such as social media channels or free internet services. To this end, it combines Marxian and anthropological value theory. Accordingly, the interactions of platform users are understood as asymmetrical practices of gift exchange. This exchange of digital gifts forms the condition of production for the value creation of internet platforms, and is reproduced continuously by their asymmetrical field of interaction. Here it is not the individual who is exploited, but rather the community of those who interact in a particular field. This condition is anchored in these platforms’ terms and conditions, which stipulate that users share their data not only with each other, but also with the company, thereby enabling a three-step process of data commodification by the platform. First, the data are appropriated as use values by the platforms in order to optimize their own services. Subsequently, a secondary commodification takes place, which, unlike other value creation processes, is decoupled from the use value of the data. Third, there is a process of cybernetization, in which the ability to influence users is sold to third parties as a commodity.
Epistemologies of missing data: COVID dashboard builders and the production and maintenance of marginalized COVID data
Authors: Kim Youngrim , Finn Megan , Acker Amelia , Chaudhuri Bidisha , Wedlake Stacey , Ellis Ryan , Srinivasan Janaki
Published: June 2024

During COVID-19, countless dashboards served as the central media for people to learn critical information about the pandemic. Varied actors, including news organizations, government agencies, universities, and nongovernmental organizations, created and maintained these dashboards, through the onerous labor of collecting, categorizing, and circulating COVID data. This study uncovers different forms of labor and data practices—the work of “COVID data builders”—behind the construction of these dashboards based on in-depth interviews with volunteers and practitioners across the United States and India who participated in COVID dashboard projects. Specifically, we examine projects focused on marginalized and missing COVID data that aimed to show the pandemic's disproportionate and unjust impact. Through an investigation of data builders’ encounters and experiences with missing COVID data in mediating the pandemic, we ask: What data problems did COVID data builders encounter? How did they produce missing COVID data while questioning its representational capacity? And lastly, what “alternative epistemologies of data” beyond representation do their data practices suggest? Through our analysis, we surfaced three types of epistemological ambiguities COVID data builders encountered within their datasets: disappearing and ephemeral data, obscuring data, and disregarded data. By highlighting these different epistemological dimensions of missing data, we conclude that focusing on the performative and infrastructural aspects of what makes datasets “work” builds a new vocabulary for addressing missing data beyond representation. We argue that the politics of counting COVID cases is grounded in the material and affective labor of confronting, navigating, and negotiating with data's epistemological ambiguities.
Effectiveness of instant versus text messaging intervention on antiretroviral therapy adherence among men who have sex with men living with HIV
Authors: Jiao Kedi , Ma Jing , Lin Yuxi , Li Yijun , Yan Yu , Cheng Chunxiao , Jia Wenwen , Meng Jing , Wang Lina , Cao Yanwen , Zhao Zhonghui , Yang Xuan , Liao Meizhen , Kang Dianmin , Wang Chunmei , Ma Wei
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of instant versus text messaging intervention (TMI) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence among men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV.

Methods

This study was conducted in an infectious disease hospital of Jinan, China from October 2020 to June 2021, using non-randomized concurrent controlled design to compare the effectiveness of instant messaging intervention (IMI) versus TMI. The intervention strategies (health messaging, medication reminder, and peer education) and contents were consistent between the two groups, and the difference was service delivery method and type of information. The primary outcome was the proportion of achieving optimal ART adherence, defined as never missing any doses and delayed any doses more than 1 hour.

Results

A total of 217 participants (including 72 in TMI group and 145 in IMI group) were included in the study. The proportion of achieving optimal adherence was higher in IMI group than TMI group at the first follow-up (90.2% versus 77.6%, p = 0.021) and second follow-up (86.5% versus 76.6%, p = 0.083). The effect of IMI versus TMI on improving ART adherence was found not to be statistically significant (risk ratio (RR) = 1.93, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.95–3.94) in complete-case analysis. However, when excluding participants who did not adhere to the interventions, a significant improvement was observed (RR = 2.77, 95%CI: 1.21–6.38). More participants in IMI group expressed highly rated satisfaction to the intervention services than those in TMI group (67.3% versus 50.0%).

Conclusions

The IMI demonstrated superior efficacy over TMI in improving ART adherence and satisfaction with intervention services. It is suggested that future digital health interventions targeting ART adherence should prioritize instant messaging with multimedia information in areas with Internet access.

Trial registration

The study was registered at the Chinese Clinical Trial Register (ChiCTR), with number [ChiCTR2000041282].
Your preoperative rehabilitation assistant: A study protocol for the impact of a telemedicine-supported preoperative home rehabilitation program on the prognosis of patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Sun Qihang , Omindo Willis Wasonga , Liu Wanjun , Huang Yan , Zhang Ruijie , Qian Yan , Li Xianping , Qiu Ruixing , Zheng Shubin , Ping Wei , Zhang Ni
Published: June 2024

Background

Reduced cardiorespiratory fitness levels are associated with increased short-term complications after surgery, and potentially exert long-lasting effects on the postoperative lives, work and educational pursuits of patients. Currently, research suggests that lifestyle interventions, such as preoperative physical exercise undertaken by patients themselves, may improve patients’ cardiopulmonary fitness and reduce post-operative complications. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and feasibility of a remote medical supervision model for prehabilitation exercise in patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung tumour resection surgery.

Methods/Design

All enrolled patients will participate in a 4-week pre-operative exercise intervention to improve their cardiorespiratory fitness. During this period, patients will wear wearable devices and exercise at home based on exercise prescriptions. The exercise prescription comprises aerobic exercise (three times a week or more), muscle strengthening exercise (twice a week or more), and respiratory muscle exercise (once a day). The primary aim is to investigate whether baseline VO2max could be improved following a 4-week preoperative exercise program. Secondary objectives include changes in forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity, degree of acceptance of the technology, quality of life, handgrip strength, postoperative complication rate and length of hospital stay.

Discussion

This study aims to evaluate the influence of preoperative prehabilitation exercises in a telemedicine active supervision mode in patients undergoing thoracoscopic lung tumour resection. As such, results of this trial might have some impact on future implementations of group- and home-based prehabilitation exercises in lung cancers.

Trial registration

This study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology (approval number: TJ-IRB20220564) with registration at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier: NCT05608759).