bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Shared Mechanisms and Chinese Herbal Medicines Between Osteoporosis and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yang Huawen , Luo Fanwei , Xiong Zhongyu
Published: December 2023

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are commonly encountered metabolic disorders in clinical practice, but the comorbidity mechanism has not been clarified. This study explored the underlying mechanisms for utilizing bioinformatics methods. Furthermore, it predicted traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) with preventive and therapeutic effects.

Materials and Methods

GSE35958 and GSE43950 were retrieved and downloaded from the GEO database, and differential expression analysis was performed to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with similar expression patterns in OP and T2D. Then, the common DEGs were uploaded to the STRING database to construct a protein interaction network. Enrichment analysis of the screened genes was conducted using R language packages. Relevant TCMs were searched and screened based on gene targets using the Encyclopedia of traditional Chinese medicine (ETCM) database. Molecular docking of active ingredients of the TCMs and related gene targets was performed using AutoDock Vina software.

Results

By analyzing the gene expression microarrays, GSE35958 and GSE43950, 34 genes with the same expression pattern shared by OP and T2D were identified. Among these genes, 32 were upregulated and two were downregulated. Protein interaction network analysis revealed that tumor necrosis factor, vascular endothelial growth factor A, and CD44 might play key roles in the co-pathogenesis of T2D and OP. TCMs, including Wolfberry (枸杞), Ginseng (人参), and Yam (山药), were screened based on key genes. Molecular docking results demonstrated binding activity between all active ingredients and the related gene targets.

Conclusion

This study explored the potential molecular co-pathogenesis of OP and T2D through bioinformatic analysis and preliminarily predicted traditional herbal medicines that may have preventive and therapeutic effects.
Two-Year Survivorship and Patient-Reported Outcomes of a Prospectively Enrolled Cohort of INFINITY Total Ankle Arthroplasties
Authors: Doty Jesse , Murphy G. Andrew , Bohay Donald , Fortin Paul , Vora Anand , Strasser Nicholas , Friscia David , Newton William , Gross Christopher E.
Published: December 2023

Background:

The INFINITY total ankle implant is a widely and successfully used option for total ankle arthroplasty. The purpose of this study is to assess the 2-year survivorship, complication rates, patient-reported outcomes, and radiologic findings of prospectively enrolled patients undergoing a fixed-bearing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). This study sought to determine if factors such as traditional vs patient-specific instrumentation, preoperative degree of arthritis, deformity, or etiology of arthritis impact surgical or clinical outcomes.

Methods:

A total of 143 prospectively enrolled patients (148 ankles) underwent TAA with a fixed-bearing total ankle implant between 2017 and 2019 at 9 different institutions by 9 different surgeons. A total of 116 completed 2-year follow-up. Patients were stratified by instrumentation used, degree of preoperative deformity, the Canadian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (COFAS) grading system, and etiology of arthritis. Outcomes used included implant survivorship and adverse events within 2 years of surgery. Additionally, patient-reported outcomes and radiographs were collected at 6-month, 1-year, and 2-year postoperatively. PROMs used included Ankle Osteoarthritis Score (AOS), Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) global health score, the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS), and patient satisfaction (rated from excellent to poor).

Results:

Implant survivorship at 2 years was 97.79%. There were 17 reoperations (11.5%), with 4 of the implants requiring revision (2.7%). Significant improvements in all PROMs were observed among all subgroups at all postoperative time points without significant variation between subgroups. Patients classified as COFAS type 2 arthritis preoperatively demonstrated significantly more improvement in FAOS Total Symptom Score at the 1- and 2-year measurements than COFAS type 3 patients at both time points.

Conclusion:

Total ankle arthroplasty with a fixed-bearing implant system is a safe and reliable treatment option for patients with end-stage arthritis regardless of degree of deformity or COFAS grading.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective cohort study.
Introducing a core dataset for real-world data in multiple sclerosis registries and cohorts: Recommendations from a global task force
Authors: Parciak Tina , Geys Lotte , Helme Anne , van der Mei Ingrid , Hillert Jan , Schmidt Hollie , Salter Amber , Zakaria Magd , Middleton Rodden , Stahmann Alexander , Dobay Pamela , Hernandez Martinez-Lapiscina Elena , Iaffaldano Pietro , Plueschke Kelly , Rojas Juan I , Sabidó Meritxell , Magyari Melinda , van der Walt Anneke , Arickx Francis , Comi Giancarlo , Peeters Liesbet M
Published: December 2023

Background:

As of September 2022, there was no globally recommended set of core data elements for use in multiple sclerosis (MS) healthcare and research. As a result, data harmonisation across observational data sources and scientific collaboration is limited.

Objectives:

To define and agree upon a core dataset for real-world data (RWD) in MS from observational registries and cohorts.

Methods:

A three-phase process approach was conducted combining a landscaping exercise with dedicated discussions within a global multi-stakeholder task force consisting of 20 experts in the field of MS and its RWD to define the Core Dataset.

Results:

A core dataset for MS consisting of 44 variables in eight categories was translated into a data dictionary that has been published and disseminated for emerging and existing registries and cohorts to use. Categories include variables on demographics and comorbidities (patient-specific data), disease history, disease status, relapses, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and treatment data (disease-specific data).

Conclusion:

The MS Data Alliance Core Dataset guides emerging registries in their dataset definitions and speeds up and supports harmonisation across registries and initiatives. The straight-forward, time-efficient process using a dedicated global multi-stakeholder task force has proven to be effective to define a concise core dataset.
Supporting visual and non-visual lighting design without increasing discomfort glare or lighting power density
Authors: Figueiro MG , Bullough JD , Thayer A , Nagare R , Rea MS
Published: December 2023

With the growing interest in designing circadian-effective lighting, it is becoming increasingly important to determine how different lighting designs aimed at supporting circadian entrainment might also affect visual performance, preference, discomfort glare and lighting power density (LPD). These outcome measures were simultaneously examined in a controlled setting at night. Four ceiling lighting configurations, using combinations of direct and indirect lighting, were implemented along with one design that utilised local lighting. Every design delivered the same high level of circadian-effective lighting to participants. Saliva samples were obtained to measure nocturnal melatonin suppression. Two visual performance computer tasks together with subjective assessments of sleepiness, discomfort glare and preference were administered to participants. LPDs were determined. None of the lighting configurations created unacceptable levels of discomfort glare, and only one was above the required maximum allowable LPD. Lighting configuration had no differential effect on nocturnal melatonin suppression, visual performance and sleepiness. While the results show that a wide range of lighting approaches can meet visual, non-visual and energy objectives, the majority of participants preferred the local lighting over the ceiling-mounted lighting.
Estimation of the Added Cancer Risk Derived From EVAR and CTA Follow-Up
Authors: Singh Bharti , Andersson Martin , Edsfeldt Andreas , Sonesson Björn , Gunnarsson Mikael , Dias Nuno V.
Published: December 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the risk of radiation-induced cancer development in patients that have undergone an infrarenal EVAR, stratifying the relative contributions of the procedure and the preoperative and postoperative CTAs.

Methods and Materials:

The organ-specific absorbed radiation doses from CTA and the EVAR procedure were estimated from the radiation exposures of 95 and 45 male patients, respectively. Lifetime attributable risk (LAR) cancer predictions were calculated for 14 different organs. Life expectancy was assumed from a previous cohort of patients undergoing infra-renal EVAR.

Results:

The calculated total excess cancer risk was 0.0046, ie, 1 out of 220 patients will develop a neoplasm after being exposed to the ionizing radiation from the preoperative CTA, the EVAR and annual CTA examinations for 15 years. The procedure and the preoperative CTA contributed with 38% of the total excess risk, while the rest was derived from the follow-up. If the entire CTA based follow-up would have been eliminated, an excess risk of 0.0018 (1/560) would remain.

Conclusions:

1 out of 219 patients who have undergone EVAR of an infra-renal AAA have a lifetime risk of developing cancer secondary to the radiation exposures related to the procedure and the CTAs used preoperatively and during follow-up. This risk derives mostly from the yearly postoperative CTAs, underlining the potential benefits of reducing or replacing their use.

Clinical Impact

A simulation-based estimation reinforced the potential deleterious effects of the radiation exposure for patients undergoing Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) and subsequently followed by yearly Computer Tomography Angiographies (CTAs). The risk could be as high as 1 out 219 patients developing a neoplasm after 15 years. The largest exposure derives from the follow-up CTAs and efforts to minimize their use as well as the intraoperative radiation are greatly needed. The simulation-based estimations done in this study reinforce potential deleterious effects of the radiation exposure for patients undergoing EVAR of AAA. Efforts should be done to minimize the intraoperative radiation and the number of CTAs used during follow-up.
The Semibranch: A New Tool for Complex Aortic Pathologies
Authors: Oberhuber Alexander , Simonte Gioele , Isernia Giacomo , Schäfers Johannes
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To describe the semibranch as new tool to treat patients with thoracoabdominal, para- and juxtarenal aortic pathologies.

Technique:

The technique is demonstrated in 2 patients with aortic pathologies. First, a 76-year-old woman with a type Ia endoleak after endovascular repair of abdominal aneurysm (EVAR). Due to the short mainbody of the EVAR and suprarenal extension of the pathology, a 4-branched device with integrated bifurcation was chosen. To realize a branched device in small diameters of the suprarenal aorta, 2 semibranches, for the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and the celiac trunc (CT), were planned. The second patient, a 75-year-old man, had a juxtarenal aneurysm. Due to small diameters of the aorta, semibranches for the SMA and the CT were planned. In both cases, a total transfemoral approach was used with a steerable sheath. Placement, cannulation of the semibranch, forwarding of the bridging stentgraft, and sealing was uneventful. All 4 semibranches were successful in sealing the aneurysm.

Conclusion:

The semibranch is another tool in the armamentarium of the endovascular interventionalist, which can expand the range of patients that can be treated. Especially patients with small aortic diameter or short distances between target vessels with the same offspring angle can profit from the semibranch design.

Clinical Impact

The semibranch is a new tool to treat thoracoabdominal as well para- and juxtarenal aortic pathologies. Due to its reduced length, packaging density can be higher and diameter of the stentgraft can be larger. It closes the gap in pathologies where fenestration are not suitable (kinked aortas) and there is not enough space for standard inner branches (small diameters).
Effect of Zingiber Officinale in the Management of Nausea and Vomiting Induced by Treatment With Cisplatin Associated With Radiotherapy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Santos Kauanny Vitoria Gurgel dos , da Silva Romeika Lorena Mendes , Sarmento Ayane Cristine Alves , Medeiros Kleyton Santos de , Pessoa Renata Lima , Dantas Daniele Vieira , Dantas Rodrigo Assis Neves
Published: December 2023

Objective:

evaluate the efficacy of Zingiber Officinale in the management of nausea and vomiting induced by treatment with cisplatin associated with radiotherapy in patients with uterine cervical neoplasms.

Methods:

a triple-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Interventions: Comparing the effects of ginger with institutional antiemetic therapy (ondansetron with dexamethasone). Patients with cervical cancer who started treatment with cisplatin with an indication of 40 mg/m² associated with radiotherapy, aged over 18 years, and with the ability to tolerate swallowing a capsule were recruited and equally allocated (1:1:1) into 3 groups of 16 patients each (the ginger capsules 250 mg group, ginger capsules 500 mg group, and placebo group). Nausea and vomiting were measured on baseline, 7 days after the first dose of medication and every seven consecutive days during a treatment break.

Results:

The 250 mg ginger group had an 8.0% greater chance of experiencing nausea within 24 h after the chemotherapy infusion than the placebo group, although there is no statistical significance ( P = .92986). The 500 mg ginger group showed a 63.9% reduction in nausea under the same conditions ( P = .40460). No change was detected in the occurrence of nausea episodes during the 6 weeks ( P = .8664) or between the groups ( P = .2817). No change was detected in acute or late vomiting during the 6 weeks ( P = .3510) or between the groups ( P = .8500 and P = .5389, respectively).

Conclusion:

Ginger supplementation does not reduce the intensity of acute and late nausea and vomiting. REBEC (RBR-47yx6p9).
Comparison of ultrasonic devices for the pretreatment of textiles before washing and analysis of action
Authors: Kimmel Tobias , Stall Sebastian , Porada Daniel , Kunkel Christian , Kessler Arnd
Published: December 2023

Up to now, when measuring the cleaning effect of ultrasound, it has generally been only possible to record combinations of different influencing variables corresponding to the parameters of Sinner’s circle. These parameters are temperature, chemistry, mechanics, and time. In order to evaluate the ultrasonic effect, a new experimental design was developed making it possible to separately measure the influence of these parameters. This approach was used to determine the cleaning of three hand-held ultrasonic devices intended for the pretreatment of stains on textiles before washing in household washing machines. For six difficult to remove stains, the contributions of soaking, friction, and ultrasound were experimentally investigated separately. The cleaning effect was measured as increased brightness. In case of all stains, the contribution of ultrasound was the maximum, followed by friction and soaking. Since it was observed that the temperature of the transducer increased during ultrasonic operation, the ultrasonic effect was further divided into an effect of temperature and ultrasound. This was done with one device and one sebum stain as an example. Analysis of the temperature influence showed that the soaking process in particular was temperature dependent, while the influence of temperature on the ultrasonic action and friction was negligible. The experiments showed that the experimental design could be used to separate the effects according to Sinner’s circle. This information enables a better understanding of the effect of devices using ultrasound and opens up new possibilities for optimizing such processes.
Screen-printed fabric electrode for electrocardiogram monitoring on commercial textiles
Authors: Jin Jiarui , Jia Wang , Yang Xuemei
Published: December 2023

Due to the low-cost fabrication, printing electronics on flexible substrates shows great potential in robotics, wearable healthcare, and persistent human-machine interfaces. Noninvasive dry-electrodes for electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring are an important technique for detecting early arrhythmias. This article describes a screen printing method for fabricating textile ECG electrodes. The biocompatible carbon ink served as the active electrochemical layer, while the silver paste acted as the conductive path, respectively. The measured results showed that the textile electrode had similar ECG signal monitoring performance compared to commercially available Ag/AgCl electrodes under conditions where the subjects were walking, stationary, and jogging. And the pre-made textile electrodes can be easily connected to the sports bra for monitoring daily exercise ECG. This study demonstrated the feasibility of utilizing textile electrodes for applications in the wearable healthcare industry.
A pilot recruitment strategy to enhance ethical and equitable access to Covid-19 pediatric vaccine trials
Authors: Muller William J , Jhaveri Ravi , Heald-Sargent Taylor , Macy Michelle L , Heard-Garris Nia , Shah Seema , Paquette Erin
Published: December 2023

Background/Aims

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic disproportionately impacted communities with lower access to health care in the United States, particularly before vaccines were widely available. These same communities are often underrepresented in clinical trials. Efforts to ensure equitable enrollment of participants in trials related to treatment and prevention of Covid-19 can raise concerns about exploitation if communities with lower access to health care are targeted for recruitment.

Methods

To enhance equity while avoiding exploitation, our site developed and implemented a three-part recruitment strategy for pediatric Covid-19 vaccine studies. First, we publicized a registry for potentially interested participants. Next, we applied public health community and social vulnerability indices to categorize the residence of families who had signed up for the registry into three levels to reflect the relative impact of the pandemic on their community: high, medium, and low. Finally, we preferentially offered study participation to interested families living in areas categorized by these indices as having high impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on their community.

Results

This approach allowed us to meet goals for study recruitment based on public health metrics related to disease burden, which contributed to a racially diverse study population that mirrored the surrounding community demographics. While this three-part recruitment strategy improved representation of minoritized groups from areas heavily impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, important limitations were identified that would benefit from further study.

Conclusion

Future use of this approach to enhance equitable access to research while avoiding exploitation should test different methods to build trust and communicate with underserved communities more effectively.
Effects of external diaphragm pacing combined with conventional rehabilitation therapies in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Linhong , Sun Pingping , Li Peijun , Wu Weibing , Wang Zhenwei , Liu Xiaodan
Published: December 2023

Background:

Numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have reported the benefits of external diaphragm pacing combined with conventional rehabilitation therapies (EDP-CRTs) on pulmonary function and exercise capacity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, evidence-based regarding its effects remains unclear.

Objectives:

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of EDP-CRTs versus CRTs on patients with COPD.

Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources and methods:

We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, China Biology Medicine Disc, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan-Fang Database, and Chinese Scientific Journal Database from inception to 10 September 2023. RCTs investigating the effects of EDP-CRTs versus CRTs on COPD patients were included. The primary outcome was pulmonary function, including forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), the percentage of predicted values of FEV1 (FEV1%pred), and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC)%. Secondary outcomes included arterial blood gas analysis [the partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) and the partial pressure of arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2)]; dyspnea [modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale (mMRC)]; exercise capacity [6-min walking distance (6MWD)]; and quality of life [COPD assessment test (CAT)]. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). The certainty of the evidence was evaluated with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system.

Results:

In total, 13 studies/981 participants were included. The pooled results revealed significant benefits of EDP-CRTs versus CRTs on the FEV1 [standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.07, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.58–1.56], FEV1%pred [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 6.67, 95% CI = 5.69–7.64], the FEV1/FVC% (SMD = 1.24, 95% CI = 0.48–2.00), PaO2 (SMD = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.74–1.84), PaCO2 (SMD = −1.88, 95% CI = −2.71 to −1.04), mMRC (WMD = −0.55, 95% CI = −0.65 to −0.45), 6MWD (SMD = 1.63, 95% CI = 0.85–2.42), and CAT (WMD = −1.75, 95% CI = −3.16 to −0.35), respectively. Planned subgroup analysis suggested that EDP-CRTs had a better effect on FEV1, FEV1/FVC%, 6MWD, and CAT in the duration of 2–4 weeks.

Conclusion:

EDP-CRTs have better effects on pulmonary function, PaCO2, dyspnea, exercise capacity, and quality of life in COPD patients than CRTs, and the duration to achieve the most effective treatment is 2–4 weeks.

Trial registration:

This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (No. CRD42022355964).
Latin America consensus statement inflammatory bowel disease: importance of timely access to diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Steinwurz Flavio , Machado Marta Brenner , Veitia Guillermo , De Paula Juan Andres , Bautista Martinez Socrates , Vergara Beatriz Iade , Capdevielle Beatriz , Martinez Silva Francisca Ana , Ramirez Ana Luz
Published: December 2023

Background:

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic conditions that negatively interferes with the quality of life of the patients, on a physical, emotional, and social level. Its symptoms can vary including diarrhea, bleeding, abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss, depending on the type and location and severity of the disease. Despite evolving treatment, they do not always achieve control of the symptoms, so between 23% and 45% of people with idiopathic chronic ulcerative colitis, and up to 75% of those with Crohn’s disease, eventually, will need surgery.

Objective:

The increase in its incidence in Latin America has promoted a renewed interest on the part of the medical and scientific community in standardizing and unifying criteria for the proper diagnosis and management of the disease, which is part of the current discussions of various events; however, this interest has not yet been reflected in policies and initiatives by governments to address the disease. We decided to develop a consensus meeting in order to elucidate the actual situation of IBD care in our region.

Design:

The methodology employed to build the consensus document derived from a review of literature, evidence, and policies on IBD, followed by a process of validation and feedback with a group of 10 experts in the field.

Methods:

Nine experts from different countries in Latin America were reunited in web meetings on 2 days and voted on topics derived from the consensus document. A full agreement with 100% approval was needed, so topics were discussed to reach the consensus otherwise were removed.

Results:

There is still a lack of information about IBD in Latin America, therefore IBD continues to be an ‘invisible’ disease and is little recognized by decision-makers.

Conclusion:

This document describes the current situation of IBDs in the Latin American region, highlighting the main barriers and challenges in timely access to diagnosis and treatment, in order to demonstrate the need to promote the development and implementation of policies, in order to improve the quality of care of patients with IBD.
Defining the course of neurosarcoidosis according to presentation at onset and disease modifying treatment: a cohort study of 84 patients
Authors: Bekkour Inès , Courtin Edouard , Dulau-Metras Cécile , Duffau Pierre , Kremer Laurent , Mathey Guillaume
Published: December 2023

Background:

Neurosarcoidosis is a rare manifestation of sarcoidosis with heterogeneous presentations. Patient management is challenging due to the current lack of knowledge about the long-term disease course.

Objective:

To identify specific disease courses of neurosarcoidosis according to the clinical and paraclinical presentations at onset.

Methods:

We conducted an observational multicenter cohort study by retrospectively collecting data from the medical records of 84 patients diagnosed with definite, probable, or possible neurosarcoidosis in three tertiary referral centers in France (Nancy, Strasbourg, and Bordeaux). We collected demographic characteristics, clinical and paraclinical data at the beginning of patient management, and during follow-up under the different treatment lines. Two expert neurologists determined disease course profiles.

Results:

The mean follow-up was 6.6 years. Almost every patient (96.4%) received steroids at some point of their follow-up. Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha blockers were given in 10.7% as first-line treatment and in 33.3% during follow-up. Every patient presented with a relapsing disease, often monophasic (75%) and sometimes polyphasic with the recurrence of identical manifestations (11.9%). Patients developing new neurological symptoms during follow-up were a minority (13.1%). No patients exhibited a progressive course. Patients with isolated cranial nerves injury or aseptic meningitis always exhibited a monophasic course, and 62.5–75% of them had a full recovery after first-line treatments. This proportion was 15.6% in other forms of the disease. Those with peripheral presentations were more likely to present a polyphasic course than patients with other forms of neurosarcoidosis. Spinal cord presentations were monophasic, but resulted in sequelae and exhibited poor response to first-line treatments despite frequent use of TNF-alpha blockers.

Conclusion:

Identification of these disease course profiles, based on the initial clinical and paraclinical presentation, could guide the clinician to select the optimal therapeutic approach and follow-up modalities for their patients with neurosarcoidosis.
Major abdominal surgery for Jehovah’s Witnesses: Challenge while practicing bloodless medicine in a middle income country
Authors: Gavrilovska-Brzanov Aleksandra , Gjambaz Darko , Naumovski Filip , Brzanov Nikola , Jovanovski Srceva Marija , Sivevski Atanas , Biljana Kuzmanovska
Published: December 2023

We present a 59-year-old female Jehovah’s Witness patient transferred from another facility to our tertiary center as an emergency case owing to anemia due to gastrointestinal bleeding. A computed tomography scan and gastroscopy confirmed an invasion of the duodenum by a malignant process. The patient underwent a Whipple procedure and a right hemicolectomy refusing blood transfusion. On the 17th postoperative day, the patient was discharged following a successful surgery. This article’s objectives are to first highlight the moral and ethical quandary and then share our surgical experiences with this particular patient population. In conclusion, Jehovah’s Witnesses’ management of major abdominal surgery poses considerable clinical, moral, and legal difficulties. Despite them, doctors must put the patients’ needs first while also honoring their religious convictions. However, urgent situations continue to arise, forcing medical professionals to weigh their religious convictions against the need to save a patient’s life.
Twitter Propaganda Operations: Analyzing Sociopolitical Issues in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Albert Craig Douglas , Aleroud Ahmed , Yang Yufan , Melhem Abdullah , Rutland Josh
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this article is to explore Arabic-language Tweets based out of Saudi Arabia to investigate the social media landscape. Specifically, this article seeks to address the question, “What thematic issues concerning the U.S. socio-political landscape are present in Arabic-language Twitter postings?” And, “To what extent can these issues be described as propagandic in nature?” To do so, we propose a machine-learning and artificial intelligence span detection approach to identify propaganda Tweets in Middle Eastern Countries, with a focus on Saudi Arabia. As opposed to previous work, this article maps and investigates different propaganda categories using the BEND Social Cyber Security framework. This article then proceeds to a case study analysis of state-sponsored targeted propaganda from Saudi Arabia and briefly describes the categories of propaganda uncovered. We then relate those categories to the BEND Framework and conclude with policy recommendations and discussion.
UTAUT Determinants of Cashless Payment System Adoption in Thailand: A Hybrid SEM-Neural Network Approach
Authors: Namahoot Kanokkarn Snae , Boonchieng Ekkarat
Published: December 2023

Research has been limited on what factors may make customers feel uncomfortable with using electronic payment systems. The purpose of this research study was to develop a model that analyzed the dimensions of the unifiB01;ed theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) with extra structures to understand how gender can affect whether consumers decide to embrace cashless payment systems in Thailand. Accordingly, 416 valid answers were submitted by banking customers utilizing the survey instrument. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were employed to kick off the process of creating a measurement model. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was then used to pinpoint the most pressing factors that prevent people from embracing online banking systems. The purpose of this research was to develop a technology acceptance model with extra structures to understand how attitudes and perceived risks affect people’s decision-making process as to whether they embrace cashless payment systems in Thailand (i.e., innovativeness). In the second stage, we used a neural network model to rank the importance of various SEM-derived predictions. The results demonstrate a robust association between Internet banking and the value barrier, the risk barrier, and the image barrier. The only factor that indicated any kind of negative influence on whether people chose to use Internet banking was the conventional barrier. Remarkably, the image barrier affected Internet banking adoption more than the risk barrier or the no-frills alternative. Furthermore, according to the data, men experienced greater challenges than women. The findings of this study may help financial institutions create offerings that entice customers to conduct financial dealings with them online. The banking industry could immensely benefit from this research since it may lead to changes in the laws that govern banking and could ultimately enhance customer service and online services.
Extending the Choice Architecture Toolbox: The Choice Context Exploration
Authors: Hajdu Nandor , Aczel Balazs , Szaszi Barnabas
Published: December 2023

The importance of context in behavioral interventions is undeniable, yet few intervention studies begin with a systematic investigation of the contextual factors that influence the behavior in question. This is largely due to the lack of a reliable method for doing so. In recognition of this gap in the field, we have developed a procedure called the Choice Context Exploration that uses machine learning tools to examine the contextual factors that influence a targeted behavior. We demonstrate the steps of Choice Context Exploration using the example of the behavioral choice between using stairs or an elevator. Potential contextual factors were identified by laypeople and experts, and two surveys were created to measure both the behavior and choice, as well as the beliefs of participants. We estimated the effect of contextual factors on participants’ behavior and were able to identify the most influential ones in relation to the studied choice. We achieved an accurate prediction of whether participants would choose the stairs or the elevator based on contextual information in 91.43% of cases on previously unseen data. We also found that participants had different beliefs about what influenced their choice in this situation and that they could be divided into different groups based on these beliefs. Our results suggest that the Choice Context Exploration is a useful procedure for collecting and assessing contextual factors in a given choice setting, which can aid in the planning of behavioral interventions by significantly reducing the number of potential interventions that are likely to be effective.
Face-to-Face and Online Learning in Higher Education: Academic Achievements and Learners’ Experience in the Chinese SFL Context
Authors: Liu Zhao
Published: December 2023

As a result of the COVID-19 virus outbreak, there has been a dramatic change in the educational landscape, and traditional classroom instruction has shifted to the online environment. Previous research has yielded contradictory results regarding the effect of different instructional modalities on student achievement. This study aimed to examine the impact of teaching mode (online vs. face-to-face) on academic outcomes in the context of Spanish as a foreign language in China. A comparative analysis was conducted between two cohorts of students, one receiving online courses and the other undergoing in-person instruction, and their respective scores for Spanish tests are reported. Additionally, a questionnaire was administered to the online cohort to gain insight into their learning motivation. The results showed that students who received online instruction outperformed those who received face-to-face instruction. Regarding the potential factors underlying the superior academic outcomes of online learners, examination of questionnaire responses pertaining to their learning experience reveals that students’ motivation, learning strategies, self-regulation, and self-efficacy are crucial factors of successful learning results and may have positively contributed to such outcomes.
Identification of Opportunities for Espousing Green Fertilizers Technology Among Smallholder Paddy Farmers for Higher Productivity and Environmental Sustenance
Authors: Nordin Shahrina Md , Lohana Sonia , Abd Razak Siti Nooriza , Kumar Vicky , Abdul Rashid Rafidah , Ahmad Rizal Ammar Redza , Atmadji Eko
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the relationship between socio-psychological factors, innovation attributes, behavior intention, and green fertilizer technology (GFT) adoption among Malaysian paddy farmers. The study also examined whether behavior intention mediated the relationship between socio-psychological factors and green fertilizer technology. The study collected data from 170 paddy farmers in Malaysia’s Kedah and Perak states. The study used a quantitative research design and analyzed the data using the SmartPLS 4 software. The study’s results indicate a positive and significant relationship between the socio-psychological factors, innovation attributes, behavior intention, and the adoption of GFT. Specifically, the study found that the socio-psychological factors significantly positively affect farmers’ behavior intention to adopt GFT. Further, innovation attributes significantly impact farmers’ behavior and intention to adopt GFT. The study’s findings provide several implications for policymakers, extension agents, and other stakeholders interested in promoting the adoption of GFT among Malaysian paddy farmers. The study suggests that promoting positive attitudes toward GFT, creating awareness of the benefits of GFT, and improving farmers perceived behavioral control may increase farmers’ intention to adopt GFT. Additionally, policymakers should develop GFT that is simple and compatible with farmers’ needs, making it easier for farmers to adopt. Moreover, this study contributes to the literature on adopting green technologies by highlighting the importance of socio-psychological factors and innovation attributes in shaping farmers’ behavior intention to adopt GFT. The study’s findings have practical implications for policymakers and other stakeholders interested in promoting the adoption of GFT among Malaysian paddy farmers.
The Impact of Field-Based Practical Training on Job Performance in Tanzania: Perspectives From Students and Work Supervisors
Authors: Marijani Ramadhani , Katomero Jesper , Hayeshi Asha , Kajerero Justine
Published: December 2023

This study assessed the impact of field-based practical training on job performance in Tanzania from students’ and work supervisors’ perspectives. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire from 1,617 undergraduate, diploma ad certificate students from the seven colleges of The University of Dodoma and 67 interviews held with work supervisors of 56 host institutions. The results of the study indicate that there is a significant relationship between the level of education and the application of knowledge at the workplace ( p < .001). There is also a significant relationship between the higher level of education and student placement in field practical training ( p = .003), meaning that those pursuing degrees perform better than those pursuing diplomas and certificate-level education. The findings, which were also corroborated by the work supervisors who reported that 51% of students were prepared well, and therefore could apply what they have been taught in class. Moreover, 71% of the supervisors were of the opinion that the students could learn new things at the workplace. The study documents the challenges facing host institutions as well as higher learning institutions in implementing field-based practical training and makes recommendations to improve the provision of field-based practical training in Tanzania.
Board Informal Hierarchy and Digital Transformation: Evidence From Chinese Manufacturing Listed Companies
Authors: Yan Aiguo , Yu Mingtao
Published: December 2023

Board informal hierarchy plays a crucial role in board governance and corporate strategic decision-making. The article empirically examines the impact of board informal hierarchy on corporate digital transformation based on relational contract theory, using a fixed-effects model with Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed manufacturing companies from 2012 to 2019 as research subjects. The findings of this study demonstrate a positive correlation between board informal hierarchy and digital transformation. Specifically, the presence of a chairman with the highest rank in the informal hierarchy strengthens this relationship, while the presence of a CEO with the highest rank weakens it. Mechanistic analysis shows that informal hierarchy accelerates digital transformation through three channels: improving board decision-making efficiency, mitigating management myopia, and facilitating information communication. This study extends existing research. On the one hand, this paper explores the drivers of digital transformation in manufacturing firms at the level of corporate governance and board characteristics. The findings provide empirical evidence to support the understanding of transformational change behaviors of manufacturing enterprises in the digital economy. On the other hand, it also opens up the “black box” of the internal operation of the board and provides valuable lessons for strengthening board governance.

JEL Classification: D21; M12; Z13.
The Contributions of the Green Areas in Residence Immediate Environment on Quality of Urban Life
Authors: Çelik Filiz , Jaiyeoba Emmanuel Babatunde
Published: December 2023

Quality of Life (QoL) is a multidimensional concept and covers urban life in all its parts. Nowadays the quality of urban life focuses mainly on the urban environment. There is increasing evidence that green areas significantly contribute to quality of life. Social, economic, cultural, ecological, physical, and psychological health benefits are many positive impacts of green areas on quality of life. Especially green areas in the residence immediate environment have an important role in improving the quality of life. For this reason, urban green areas are accepted as one of the basic indicators of urban quality of life. In this paper, residents’ perceptions of quality of life in green areas are examined via data from a survey in Selçuklu District (Konya, Turkey). Using face-to-face interviews, 415 residents were interviewed in Selçuklu District from January to March 2020. Also, this study evaluates the contributions of the urban green areas to the quality of life in Selçuklu District. Analysis of how green spaces enhance the quality of life has been examined from the residence immediate environment perspective. Results show that residents with green areas in the residence immediate environment that are accessible and usable are more satisfied with their residence. From the findings, strategies have been established to potentiate the role of urban green areas in the promotion of the urban quality of life and sustainability for Selçuklu District.
Green Tweets or Not? The Sustainable Commitment of Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Alonso-Cañadas Juana , Saraite-Sariene Laura , Galán-Valdivieso Federico , Caba-Pérez María del Carmen
Published: December 2023

Higher education organizations are increasingly playing a key role in promoting Sustainable Development within society by disclosing information about applied strategies and achieved sustainable performance via social media. Consequently, platforms like Twitter have evolved into decisive tools for fostering accountability, establishing legitimacy, and displaying engagement to environmental sustainability. First, this paper aims to analyze the impact of published sustainable content on Twitter on the stakeholders’ online engagement level within British green universities ranked by the People & Planet University League. Second, the study intends to investigate the influencing factors that enhance online interactions. To attain the purpose a theoretical framework was established and a text mining analysis of 145,941 tweets was conducted to construct both a sustainable and a general online engagement index. Finally, a multivariate regression analysis was employed to create two models based on content type. The results reveal a heightened interest in engaging with sustainable content shared on the official Twitter profiles of the sampled universities in comparison to general information tweets. Furthermore, the findings indicate that organizational attributes, reputational factors, and considerations related to strategy design and implementation of sustainable policies, along with the sentiment polarity of the disseminated content, contribute to elucidating the attained level of online engagement. These factors work together to involve stakeholders in the pursuit of sustainable development goals within Green Universities.
A Case Series of Elizabethkingia Spp. Bacteremia in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Chiang Lim Ming , Yi Sim Cian , Siew Everlyn Coxin , Badrulzaman Syarida binti , Rahman Siti Iryawani binti
Published: December 2023

Elizabethkingia species are multi-drug resistant, Gram-negative bacteria that can adapt to different environmental conditions and rarely cause infections in humans but can be fatal among immunocompromised populations. We report our first experience of managing 2 pediatric patients infected with Elizabethkingia species. Over 12-months, 2 pediatric patients were infected with Elizabethkingia species in our hospital. They were both immunocompromised and were initially covered with broad spectrum antibiotics. Their conditions deteriorated and further investigations revealed the growth of Elizabethkingia species from the blood culture. Change of antibiotics was commenced and marked improvement was shown along the course of treatment. Both eventually completed the treatments and recovered remarkably well with no complications from the infections. However, colonization of the Elizabethkingia species was not identified on our environmental surveillance. Timely and appropriate anti-infectives and supportive management have shown marked improvement and disease curability in our patients who suffered from bacteremia and multiple liver abscesses.
2023 IFFAS Award for Excellence Winner: Percutaneous vs Open Distal Chevron Osteotomy for the Treatment of Hallux Valgus: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Choi Gi-Won , Yoon Hangseob , Park Kwang Hwan , Jo Joon , Lee Moses , Lee Jin Woo , Kim Hak Jun
Published: December 2023

Category:

Bunion: Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/ Purpose:

This study aimed to compare the radiologic and clinical outcomes of percutaneous and open distal chevron osteotomies.

Methods:

Seventy-one patients with hallux valgus deformity were randomized to undergo percutaneous distal chevron osteotomy (percutaneous group, n = 36) or open distal chevron osteotomy (open group, n = 35). The primary outcome was the hallux valgus angle 12 months postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were other radiographic parameters including inter-metatarsal angle, medial sesamoid position, first metatarsal shortening, and first metatarsal declination angle, and functional outcomes, such as foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS), foot functional index (FFI), pain visual analog scale (VAS), patient satisfaction, shoe restriction, and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint range of motion. Radiological and clinical outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The VAS for pain was evaluated preoperatively and at 1 day, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

Results:

At year 1 post-operation, there were no significant differences between the groups in any radiographic parameters, except the first metatarsal declination angle. The mean first metatarsal declination angle was significantly lower in the open group than that in the percutaneous group. The FAOS, FFI, patient satisfaction, and shoe restriction did not differ significantly between the groups. However, the percutaneous group had a significantly lower VAS score for pain on day 1 post-operation than the open group. The mean range of motion of the first MTP joint decreased significantly only in the open group.

Conclusion:

Radiological and clinical outcomes following percutaneous distal chevron osteotomy were comparable to those of open distal chevron osteotomy. However, the percutaneous group had an advantage over the open group as it showed a lower immediate postoperative pain level and better range of motion of the first MTP joint.