bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcellular transport of 18F-deoxyglucose via facilitative glucose channels in experimental peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Martus Giedre , Siddhuraj Premkumar , Erjefält Jonas S , Kádár András , Lindström Martin , Bergling Karin , Öberg Carl M
Published: December 2024

Background

Local and systemic side effects of glucose remain major limitations of peritoneal dialysis (PD). Glucose transport during PD is thought to occur via inter-endothelial pathways, but recent results show that phloretin, a general blocker of facilitative glucose channels (glucose transporters [GLUTs]), markedly reduced glucose diffusion capacity indicating that some glucose may be transferred via facilitative glucose channels (GLUTs). Whether such transport mainly occurs into (absorption), or across (trans-cellular) peritoneal cells is as yet unresolved.

Methods

Here we sought to elucidate whether diffusion of radiolabeled 18F-deoxyglucose ([18F]-DG) in the opposite direction (plasma → dialysate) is also affected by GLUT inhibition. During GLUT inhibition, such transport may either be increased or unaltered (favors absorption hypothesis) or decreased (favors transcellular hypothesis). Effects on the transport of solutes other than [18F]-DG (or glucose) during GLUT inhibition indicate effects on paracellular transport (between cells) rather than via GLUTs.

Results

GLUT inhibition using phloretin markedly reduced [18F]-DG diffusion capacity, improved ultrafiltration (UF) rates and enhanced the sodium dip. No other solutes were significantly affected with the exception of urea and bicarbonate.

Conclusion

The present results indicate that part of glucose is transported via the transcellular route across cells in the peritoneal membrane. Regardless of the channel(s) involved, inhibitors of facilitative GLUTs may be promising agents to improve UF efficacy in patients treated with PD.
Study on the frequencies of natural oscillations of car transporter wagon
Authors: Muradian Leontii , Shvets Anzhelika , Nikitenko Anatolii , Shvets Angela
Published: December 2024

The development of new products and services allows railway transport to constantly increase the fleet of specialised wagons, which, in comparison with the universal rolling stock, have the best technical and economic indicators. A significant part of cars is delivered by railways, and it is economically reasonable to transport them on a specialised rolling stock. In this regard, the development of a methodology for refined theoretical studies of the strength of bodies of a double-deck rolling stock for passenger cars transportation, the choice of appropriate design schemes and parameters of the bodies, the analysis of the frequencies and forms of their natural oscillations, taking into account the finite stiffness of the elements, are urgent research tasks. The research uses the methods of structural mechanics of rod systems, the applied theory of elasticity, and discrete masses. A wide range of frequencies and forms of the natural free oscillations was obtained using the discrete mass method for a structural scheme with load transfer from the upper to the lower level of the wagon with the help of four racks. The applied methodology of theoretical determination of frequencies and forms of the natural free oscillations of the car transporter wagon by the method of discrete masses is effective. It allows for the estimation of the dynamic characteristics of the wagon.
Critical analysis of smart materials in adaptive transparent systems for building façade
Authors: Jaffar Haleema , Javed Nasir , Riaz Ahmad , Ahmad Hafiz Abrar , Iqbal Abdul Mueed , Zhou Chao , Zhang Jili
Published: December 2024

Adaptive transparent system (ATS) is an aspiring and effective building system that can adapt itself through environmental changes in spontaneous and reversible ways. It proposes an automatic and real-time response to indoor and outdoor conditions by increasing building energy efficiency and user comfort. This research presents a critical analysis to provide a preference order of the smart materials being used in the adaptive transparent systems. The approach of using smart material technologies in the building façades is discussed as the promising research direction for the future. A comprehensive literature review is conducted to identify the smart materials used in adaptive transparent systems along with their properties. Seven types of smart materials that are aerogel (AG), phase change material (PCM), photovoltaic (PV), electrochromic (EC), thermo-chromic (TC), thermo-tropic (TT), and liquid crystal polymers (LCP) are selected based on evaluation criteria determined by the literature. The identified criteria are bulk density (BD), thermal conductivity (TCd), sound insolation (SI), fire retardation (FR), heat transfer coefficient (HTC), solar transmittance (ST), air purification (AP), annual energy saving (AES), cost saving (CS), ultraviolet (UV)/near infrared (NIR) control (UNC), and embodied carbon (EC). The identified seven smart materials are investigated with the help of two multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques named analytical hierarchical process (AHP) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) for analysis and ranking of materials. Results of the analysis demonstrate that PV is the most optimum material for adaptive transparent systems while others are ranked according to their performance.
A Quality Improvement Initiative to Reduce the Noise Levels in a Tertiary Care Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Devaramani Manjunath , Devaranavadagi Ranganatha A. , Nagesh N Karthik
Published: December 2024

Objective

Noise hazard is the issue of most tertiary care due to various paraphernalia and human factors. Recently, our observation has suggested that the new generation of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) staff and residents are not sensitive to protocols of noise control and maintaining a silent environment in the NICU. Hence, this quality improvement (QI) project was undertaken.

Methods

The QI team identified the potential sources of noise in the NICU through fishbone analysis in the baseline phase. Noise levels were recorded by a digital sound pressure level meter. Stepwise Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were conducted over 8 weeks, and the strategies to reduce noise levels targeted behavioural and environmental modification. Further noise levels were assessed for 4 weeks in the post-intervention phase.

Results

Average noise levels decreased from the baseline 63.3 ± 3.09 dB to 54.3 ± 1.51 dB (14.2% decline) in the post-intervention phase with a highly significant P value (<.0001). The peak noise levels decreased from a baseline 110.6 ± 2.94 dB to 76.9 ± 1.65 dB in the post-intervention phase with a highly significant P value (<.0001). During the day shift, average noise levels decreased from 63.8 to 54.7dB; night shift noise levels decreased from 62.9 to 53.8 dB. Peak noise levels were decreased from 112 and 108.7 dB to 78.1 and 75.7 dB during the day and night shifts, respectively.

Conclusion

Effective implementation of targeted behavioural and environmental strategies through a stepwise PDSA-driven approach decreased the noise levels in the tertiary care NICU by 14.2% from baseline.
Children's views on women in sport: Locating feminist narratives
Authors: Kitching Niamh
Published: December 2024

Narratives of progress have circulated around women's sport in recent times, as reflected in the growing numbers of women sports participants, increased media visibility and movements towards pay parity for professional sportswomen. As part of a wider project exploring children's sporting identities, 147 children were asked via focus groups (21) about their views on the perceived progress of women in sport, with the data analysed to see how these ideas might be underpinned by feminist perspectives. Using reflexive thematic analysis, the constructed themes comprised of (1) pay equity, (2) media visibility, (3) girl fandom and (4) a continuum of boys’ views. Overall, children are overwhelmingly positive about the progress of women in sport. Feminist frameworks presented in discussions on equity of pay and resources as linked to liberal feminism, to media visibility typically associated with popular feminism. However, while the viewpoints of the children appeared to support the progressive narrative around women in sport, many of the frameworks that underpinned children's views may not ultimately challenge gender inequality in sport. The significance of this research relates to the potential for future generations to recognise and embrace gender equity in sport.
Demographic and clinical characteristics of rural, regional, and metropolitan inpatients during psychiatric inpatient eating disorders treatment
Authors: Seiler Natalie , Ziegeler Benjamin , Stukel Mikayla , Gwee Karen
Published: December 2024

Objective

Eating disorders were previously considered less common in rural/regional areas. However, emerging research suggests that eating disorders may be more prevalent in these populations than initially recognized. We aimed to describe demographic/clinical characteristics of metropolitan compared to rural/regional inpatients during psychiatric inpatient eating disorder treatment at the Eating Disorders Unit (EDU), Austin Health in Melbourne, Australia.

Methods

Retrospective review of patient files was undertaken for inpatients aged 18–65 years who resided within the Body Image & Eating Disorders Treatment & Recovery Service (BETRS) catchment area and were admitted to EDU between 01/01/21 and 30/10/23.

Results

Regional/rural patients were on average 2.7 years older and first diagnosed 3.5 years later compared to metropolitan inpatients. These groups showed otherwise similar characteristics in relation to psychiatric/medical history.

Conclusion

Available and accessible speciality eating disorders services in rural and regional areas are needed for early detection, prevention, and multidisciplinary management.
Brave Conversations Within Safe Spaces: Exploring Participant Behavior in Community Dialogues
Authors: Doornbosch Linda M. , van Vuuren Mark , de Jong Menno D.T.
Published: December 2024

This study explores how individuals from diverse backgrounds contribute to creating safe environments for constructive intergroup dialogue on divisive issues in community settings. Through an analysis of unique recordings from four real-life conversations, the research reveals how participants’ individual behaviors—personal engagement (such as self-disclosure and risk-taking) and interpersonal engagement (like validating others)—along with group dynamics, foster a positive climate that enables free expression and sustained engagement, even when safety is challenged. The findings offer valuable insights into the processes and dynamics of intergroup dialogue, highlighting participants’ active roles in fostering safe and brave spaces in polarized communities.
Current Status of and Barriers to Primary Palliative Care Recognized by Critical Care Specialist Nurses: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Survey in Japan
Authors: Kato Akane , Tanaka Yuta , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Yamase Hiroaki , Tado Asami , Tatsuno Junko , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: December 2024

Objectives: To investigate the current state of primary palliative care practice in Japanese critical care settings, identify care perceived as equivalent to primary palliative care, and explore the barriers. Methods: We employed a quantitative descriptive questionnaire survey with a nationwide cross-sectional design involving 740 critical care specialist nurses. Results: Questionnaires were received from 384 nurses, yielding a response rate of 51.9%. Nurses recognized typical palliative care provided to cancer patients, such as “relieving suffering at end-of-life” (95.3%), “pain management” (88.8%), and “caring for patients’ psychological suffering” (88.3%), as primary palliative care in the critical care setting. They also recognized “monitoring and management of delirium” (68.5%), “caring for patients’ social suffering” (63.5%), and “preventing post-intensive care syndromes” (61.7%) less frequently as aspects of primary palliative care in critical care settings. Additionally, the recognition was lower among emergency department nurses than intensive care unit nurses. The nurses recognized inadequate overall palliative care practices, especially regarding patients’ social (72.1%) and spiritual (76.8%) suffering. They recognized “insufficient knowledge and skills among critical care medical staff” (70.6%) and “unable to confirm the patients’ preferences to treatment goals” (54.4%) as barriers to providing primary palliative care. The barriers that nurses recognized less often were “uncertainty about palliative care in critical care settings” (6.8%) and “disagreements among nursing teams regarding providing palliative care” (8.3%). Conclusion: Specialist nurses understood palliative care but felt unprepared in primary palliative care due to limited knowledge. Improved education in primary palliative care and patient-family communication is needed in Japan’s critical care settings.
Association of Clinical, Biomechanical, and Psychosocial Factors with Smile Dynamics in Unilateral Cleft Lip: A Multicenter Observational Study
Authors: Wong Lucinda , Firth Fiona , Fowler Peter , Jack Hannah , Bennani Hamza , Campbell Thomas Noble , Farella Mauro
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between clinical, biomechanical, and psychosocial factors and smiling behavior in individuals with treated unilateral cleft lip with or without cleft palate (UCL ± P) compared to non-cleft controls.

Design

Multicenter observational study in New Zealand.

Participants

Individuals aged ≥15 ( N = 42) comprised 2 study groups: a UCL ± P group ( N = 21) and a non-cleft control group ( N = 21).

Methods

Participants viewed an amusing video while their facial expressions were recorded. Smile features were automatically detected via software. A clinical outcome, nasolabial esthetics, was scored using the Asher-McDade system. Perioral biomechanical properties were measured via myotonometry. Smile Esthetics-related Quality of Life (SERQoL), Orofacial Esthetics Scale (OES), and personality (IPIP-NEO-60) questionnaires were completed.

Results

Smile features and personality traits did not differ between the groups. Participants with UCL ± P exhibited higher stiffness (+44.2%; Cohen's d = 1.6) and tone (+22.6%; Cohen's d = 1.9) at the cleft scar site, and higher decrement (or lower elasticity, +8.5%; Cohen's d = 0.8) adjacent to the scar. Nasolabial esthetics and elasticity of the scar correlated with the duration of smiles and relative smile time (−0.50 < R < −0.44; p < .05). Participants in the UCL ± P group had lower scores for the OES and higher impacts on SERQoL for social contacts and dental self-confidence.

Conclusions

Adolescents and adults with UCL ± P exhibit similar smile behavior as their cleft-free peers—at least in non-social settings. Nasolabial esthetics and perioral biomechanical properties are associated with propensity to smile. UCL ± P is negatively associated with smile-related quality of life and an individual's perception of their facial appearance.
Removal of aqueous humor and conjunctival compression sutures for a dysesthesic filtering bleb: A surgical technique and case report
Authors: Arias-García Elena , Martinez-Gil Cristina , Bautista-Cortiella Marc , Roig-Ferreruela Gonzalo , Piá-Ludeña Jose Vicente , Lanzagorta-Aresti Aitor
Published: December 2024

Introduction

To present a novel surgical technique for the treatment of a steep-walled filtering bleb following an Ahmed glaucoma valve implant. The primary aim was to alleviate the patient's discomfort and address associated corneal thinning, complications that can arise from this condition.

Methods

Case report and surgical technique. This case report describes a 29-year-old female who developed a dysesthesic filtering bleb following the implantation of a glaucoma drainage device. The employed surgical technique to address this complication involved the drainage of aqueous from the bleb using a 30-G needle, which effectively reduced its height. Subsequently, a compression suture was applied to maintain an appropriate bleb size.

Results

With the presented surgical technique, the ultimate control of an overhigh filtering bleb associated to a glaucoma drainage device was possible. Following the procedure, the patient's symptoms and the corneal thinning linked to the bleb's excessive size were successfully managed. Furthermore, the anatomy of the filtering bleb was preserved, and an optimal intraocular pressure outcome was achieved.

Conclusions

The removal of aqueous and the application of a compression suture are two surgical techniques traditionally used for managing the hypertensive phase of glaucoma drainage devices and for alleviating discomfort from blebs after classical filtering surgery, respectively. In the case presented, the combination of these two techniques effectively reduced the size of an excessively high filtering bleb associated with a glaucoma drainage device. This approach successfully resolved the patient's discomfort and corneal issues related to this complication.
A comparison of postoperative microbiological and histological test results with the indication for revision as listed at the time of surgery in the National Joint Registry: a single-centre cohort study of metal-on-metal total hip replacement and hip resurfacing revision procedures
Authors: Murphy Thomas A , Nandra Rajpal , Berryman Fiona , Whitehouse Michael R , Dunlop David J , Matharu Gulraj S
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Surgeons allocate an indication(s) for revision surgery on NJR Minimum Data Set forms in the immediate perioperative period, when results from intraoperative histology and microbiology samples are not available. We evaluated to what extent the postoperative diagnostics obtained for patients undergoing metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty (MoMHA) revision surgery align with the indication for revision listed in the NJR.

Methods:

NJR data for MoMHA revision patients (2004–2015) at a single centre were linked to hospital records of microbiology and histology testing for prosthetic joint infection (PJI) and adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD). The Musculoskeletal Infection Society and Mirra classifications were used as “gold standards’ to classify PJI and ARMD respectively and to assess the diagnostic accuracy of the clinician selected revision indication recorded on MDS forms.

Results:

Of 301 cases, 5.6% ( n = 17) and 3.7% ( n = 11) were revised for PJI and ARMD respectively. In a further 6.6% ( n = 20, PJI) and 15.6% ( n = 47, ARMD) the indication for revision selected at the time of surgery did not corroborate with the test results from intraoperative samples. Diagnostic accuracy analysis revealed sensitivity and specificity of indication for surgery at the time of revision for PJI of 35.5% (95% CI, 19.2–54.6) and 97.8% (CI, 54.6–95.2) respectively, and for ARMD of 7.41% (CI, 2.06–17.9) and 97.2% (CI, 94.3–98.9) respectively.

Conclusions:

We observed that the results of histology and microbiology analyses of intraoperative samples may provide evidence to support alternative diagnoses in 20% of cases. This indicates a need for a change in the work-up of these cases to allow a more accurate prediction of the indication for revision. Alternatively, if there was evidence of a difference in outcome for patients where the indication may be changed when such data becomes available, the feasibility of a facility to add additional information from samples taken intraoperatively when it becomes available should be explored.
Macroeconomic conditions, cash holdings, and financial constraints in restaurant firms
Authors: Kizildag Murat , Ozdemir Ozgur , Dogru Tarik , Demirer Ilhan , Gultek Mark
Published: December 2024

Firms with higher cash holding levels can undertake investment projects and pay off their obligations without any financial difficulties. However, unused excess cash could be detrimental to firm value because unutilized cash value could significantly depreciate over time. Thus, this paper aims to examine the extent to which macroeconomic factors affect restaurant firms’ cash holdings. We further examine the extent to which the level of financial restraints affects the link between macroeconomic factors and firms’ cash holdings in the US restaurant corporations. The results showed that interest rates affect restaurant firms’ cash holdings, while other macroeconomic factors do not.
Exploring the enacted content of the Practising Model: A Bildung theoretical perspective
Authors: Fjellner Robin Lindgren , Larsson Håkan , Barker Dean
Published: December 2024

Various attempts have been made to emphasise the educational purpose of physical education (PE). Ennis (2011 ) has noted that understandings of content shift depending on curriculum. The aim of the paper is to explore what the enacted content becomes when the Practising Model is implemented in PE. Four PE teachers, in two Swedish secondary schools, enacted the Practising Model with five classes for 10–17 lessons. Qualitative data were generated in the form of video recordings of lessons, interviews with students and teachers, and student-produced material. The findings are presented as three main content areas: (a) general-subject content, typically teacher-initiated and involving planning and evaluation; (b) subject-specific content, largely student-initiated and encompassing the adoption, appreciation, exploration, understanding, and grasping of movement qualities; and (c) persona-developing content, focusing on character development through persisting and daring. A discussion of the findings using Categorical Bildung is presented, illustrating the added value the enacted content may bring students in terms of their Bildung. The study highlights the diversity of content engagement and the fluidity between content categories. This diversity also introduces a challenge in the changing relationship between content and teaching. The organising centre for PE and its relation to content are discussed. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research.
The effects of Bollywood film-induced tour guiding on revisit intentions and destination image
Authors: Morrison Alastair M , Batabyal Debasish , Rawal Yashwant Singh , Sinha Rupa
Published: December 2024

Film-induced tour guiding is evolving as a hybrid of storytelling and information and communication technologies. It is a contemporary approach to tour guiding with the sharing of visual, vocal, and celebrity effects via audiovisual clips before and on-site during tours. The main purpose of this research was to investigate the impacts of film-induced tour guiding with a specific focus on Bollywood movies. A mixed-method research design was followed by employing qualitative and quantitative analysis methods. Structural equation modeling revealed that celebrity and vocal effects, and destination image had positive and significant impacts and highlighted the influence of Bollywood stars, storytelling, and destination perceptions in shaping revisit intentions. The findings offer vacation marketers several suggestions on how to augment film-induced tourism and tour-guiding effectiveness.
Tribological and mechanical behavior of AL 2014 aluminum alloy influenced by microstructure and texture evolution after equal channel angular processing
Authors: Keshavamurthy R  , Reddy K Venkateswara , Bhargavi P. , Venkata Suresh Bade , Janaki Durga Venkatesh , Gudaru Kumar Raja , Satyanarayana M.V.N.V , Sireesha Y
Published: December 2024

In the present study, the impact of microstructure and texture evolution on the wear and mechanical behavior of equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) of Al 2014 was examined. The average grain size of Al 2014 decreased dramatically from 101 to 6.5 microns after ECAP passes. The distribution of grain boundaries and crystallographic texture changed due to this grain refinement, significantly improving the wear and mechanical properties of the processed alloy. The enhanced wear resistance seen after ECAP resulted from low-angle boundaries (LABs) preventing fracture propagation, according to the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis. Additionally, a notable change in texture was observed after ECAP; the initial S-rolling texture of the material, in its as-received condition, transformed into distorted Copper and A-type textures, indicating the complex strain conditions induced by the ECAP process. The ability of ECAP to improve the material's suitability for high-wear resistance applications was further demonstrated by tribological tests, which showed that the ECAP-processed Al 2014 alloy had noticeably lower wear rates than its as-received counterpart. Similarly, the mechanical results show that ECAP significantly improved the hardness and tensile characteristics.
“Journalists” without a press card- cross-border cooperation of Chinese private news organizations
Authors: Yin Qi , Zheng Shiyu (Sharon)
Published: December 2024

Commencing with the distinctive institutional environment of China, this study broadens the perspective of cross-border journalism from the transnational/international dimension to the institutional dimension. Drawing upon embeddedness theory, the research delves into the forms, scope, and characteristics of cross-border cooperative relationships established by private news organizations as a means for grappling with dual legitimacy dilemmas to embed themselves in the journalistic field. Qualitative interviews with 24 Chinese unlicensed journalists in private news organizations reveal a preference for their cross-border collaboration with government and state-owned media, possessing political or cultural authority, while deliberately avoiding engagement with foreign media, self-media and users. This pattern of cross-border cooperation exhibits a distinctive trait of dependency embeddedness. Furthermore, it is observed that these practices primarily serve as self-protection measures with limited impact on publicity and the democratic development of journalism. These findings contribute to our comprehension of the self-protection strategies employed by China’s private news organizations and their unlicensed journalists in the digital media era, offering a novel institutional perspective in understanding cross-border journalism practices within a non-Western context.
The ‘hearts and lungs’ of a booming rural entrepreneurial ecosystem: Re-conceptualising science parks in emerging markets
Authors: Kyriakopoulos Panagiotis
Published: December 2024

Although science parks (SPs) play a crucial role in rural development, little is known about their core elements in the context of emerging markets, particularly those focused on rural areas. Reflecting on the fragmented ecosystem literature, this study suggests that the core components of SPs that influence their success include (i) early/pre-incubations, (ii) business incubations, (iii) accelerators, (iv) landing (larger and established) firms, and (v) universities/research institutions that collaborate closely with industry, local communities and governments, with all these bodies being interdependent and interacting. Revealing the unique idiosyncrasies of rural SPs (i.e. limited resources, lack of education, transport and infrastructure), we show how SPs incorporate those challenges and extend the ecosystem concept.
Understanding student perspectives on peer feedback: Written versus video versus face-to-face dialog
Authors: Chow Ming Fai
Published: December 2024

Despite the growing emphasis on peer feedback, its effectiveness and students’ perceptions remain uncertain. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate different feedback techniques to understand the strengths and limitations of each. This study aims to assess students’ perceptions and attitudes toward peer feedback, its impact on motivation and engagement, and their preferred feedback channels—text, video, or face-to-face interactions. The findings reveal that most students view peer feedback as beneficial to their learning process, with a strong preference for face-to-face feedback over text and video. This preference stems from the ability to seek immediate clarification, which enhances the feedback’s effectiveness and promotes a deeper understanding among students. Additionally, the survey results indicate that peer feedback fosters closer interactions among peers and boosts motivation and engagement in the learning process. A majority of students expressed a desire to continue receiving peer feedback in future courses.
Cycle-consistency-constrained few-shot learning framework for universal multi-type structural damage segmentation
Authors: Fan Yunlei , Li Hui , Bao Yuequan , Xu Yang
Published: December 2024

Despite the significant advancements in computer-vision-based structural damage recognition enhanced by deep learning techniques, challenges persist with training convergence, recognition stability, and model generalization for multi-type damage with small-scale datasets. To address these issues, few-shot learning has emerged as a promising solution to achieve universal damage segmentation using limited annotated images. This study proposes a novel cycle-consistency-constrained few-shot segmentation framework tailored for multi-type structural damage recognition. A cycle-consistency-constrained prototype learning paradigm is constructed to enhance the adequate utilization of limited pixel-level annotations, which is leveraged by establishing a bidirectional mutual supervision mechanism between support and query sets. Subsequently, a non-parametric similarity-guided optimization module is incorporated into the high-level latent feature space of image embedding. This module induces a similarity-driven contrast learning process for each pixel of feature maps and learns universal prototypes that condense the abstract semantic context of foreground (i.e., multi-type damage) and background. Furthermore, a synthetic loss function, which comprises mutually supervised segmentation dice loss, metric loss, and contrastive loss, is designed to ensure the bidirectional pixel-level segmentation accuracy, intra-class compactness, and inter-class separability of learned prototypes for multi-type damage. A multi-type structural damage dataset, encompassing concrete crack, steel fatigue crack, concrete spalling, and steel corrosion, is collected to validate the efficacy, necessity, and generalizability of the proposed method through a series of comparative studies and ablation experiments. The results indicate that segmentation accuracies for multi-type structural damage significantly surpass that of directly training a conventional segmentation model, performing significant improvements in average mean intersection-over-union (mIoU) and mean pixel accuracy (mPA) by 11.5% and 9.1%, respectively. In addition, the adaptability of the proposed method for one-shot learning, using only one annotated image for a completely new damage type, is also corroborated by notable increases of average mIoU and mPA by 8.1% and 7.7%.
Show Me the Money! The Immediate Impact of Name, Image, and Likeness on College Football Recruiting
Authors: Pitts Joshua D. , Evans Brent A.
Published: December 2024

Using recruiting data from 247 Sports that accounts for transfers, the authors examined the impact of name, image, and likeness (NIL) on college football recruiting. Name, image, and likeness earnings potential at each university was measured by the average of the top-ten NIL valuations for a university's football players ( NIL Average). After controlling for many factors, including university- and coach-fixed effects, our instrumental variables estimates reveal that NIL Average was correlated with the amount of recruiting points a program received in the 2022, 2023, and 2024 recruiting cycles. Yet, the increase in NIL funding required to significantly alter the talent universities attract is probably cost-inhibitive for most programs. We conclude that while NIL is certainly a new aspect of recruiting to which universities must devote resources, the existence of NIL is unlikely to cause a dramatic shift in the distribution of talent in college football.
Intercostal bypass graft pseudoaneurysm repaired with percutaneous glue embolization utilizing CT needle guidance: A case report
Authors: Moroney James , Plumb Andrew , Scheidt Matthew , Malinowski Michael
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Pseudoaneurysm formation in connective tissue patients postoperatively can be a challenging and life-threatening problem to treat. Repair of an aorta to intercostal bypass graft pseudoaneurysm post open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair by percutaneous glue embolization utilizing Dyna CT Needle Guidance technology is a safe, minimally invasive method with low morbidity and short post-procedural recovery.

Methods

A 30-year-old male with suspected connective tissue disorder who developed a Type B aortic dissection complicated by limb threatening right lower extremity ischemia treated with left-to-right fem-fem bypass and RLE fasciotomies. His thoracic aortic dissection subsequently was repaired urgently for persistent chest pain and rapid aortic expansion by open thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair with aorta to intercostal bypass graft. Seven weeks postop patient presented with hemoptysis and was noted to have an enlarging T9 intercostal pseudoaneurysm requiring repair.

Results and conclusions

Post discharge follow-up thoracic CTA performed showed complete resolution of the T9 intercostal pseudoaneurysm. Therefore, percutaneous NBCA glue embolization with iGuide technology is a viable alternative to open thoracic pseudoaneurysm repair and offers distinct advantages over other imaging modalities for localization.
Too complex to follow! Principals’ strategic cognitive complexity, teachers’ organizational identification and school outcomes
Authors: Tucaliuc Mihai , Curșeu Petru Lucian , Muntean Arcadius Florin , Buzea Iulia Maria
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a multisource and multimethod investigation of the relationship between principals’ strategic cognitive complexity (SCC) and school outcomes assessed by parents, as mediated by teachers’ identification with the school. We have assessed the SCC of 165 school principals, derived from interviews in which they described their strategy and long-term educational vision for the school. A sample of teachers from these Romanian schools (2687 teachers in total, 360 male) reported their identification with the school and a sample of parents (10080 in total, 1658 male) assessed the school academic climate and reported their engagement with the school. We used a non-linear mediation procedure and show that SCC has an inverted U-shaped association with teachers identification with the school that in turn has a positive association with parents’ engagement with the school and their rating of the academic climate. Our results challenge the universality of SCC benefits in schools and point out the importance of exploring diminishing benefits associated with SCC by using multisource data and the “too much of a good thing” theoretical framework as a guide for future research directions in strategic management in schools.
A new method of building envelope thermal design optimisation combined with room thermal resilience index
Authors: Li Zhengrong , Si Yang , Feng Yanbo
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a new optimisation method for envelope thermal design based on genetic algorithm and building simulation combined with envelope thermal performance. The new method aims to obtain combinations of envelope thermal parameters that can further reduce building energy consumption and can be used to analyse the direction of optimisation of the envelope thermal design. Firstly, based on the genetic algorithm and the envelope thermal resilience performance index, the envelope thermal performance optimisation method is established for design and analysis. Then, a residential building in Shanghai is selected as an example, and the boundary conditions of the envelope thermal parameters are obtained. The proposed method is applied to optimise the envelope design. Finally, the optimisation process of the envelope for different types of rooms with different orientations is analysed using numerical simulation. The results show that the proposed optimisation design method can effectively reduce the heating and air-conditioning loads of the building (up to 25%–65% for the selected buildings). In addition, it is recommended that residential buildings in the Shanghai area use heavy mass walls with high thermal insulation capability as the building interior walls and windows with a small window-to-wall ratio and high thermal conductivity. The proposed optimisation method and its results can provide a reference for building design and help to promote the development of design methods for building envelope.
Efficacy and Mechanisms of Qianghuo Shengshi Tang in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Network Pharmacology and Experimental Study
Authors: Han Junjun , Wang Mengyue , Lin Yue , Tian Lu , Liu Guiqin , Wang Qian , Duo Delong , Zhu Junbo , Jia Qiangqiang , Duan Yabing , Nima Cairang , Li Xiangyang
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study assesses the anti-inflammatory and therapeutic effects of Qianghuo Shengshi Tang (QHSST) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through network pharmacology and experimental validation and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Complete composition analysis of QHSST using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS. And collection potential targets using relevant databases. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses were conducted. Anti-inflammatory activity of QHSST was evaluated in RAW264.7 cells by assessing apoptosis, NO, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). In rats with wind-cold-dampness paralysis-RA, efficacy of QHSST was confirmed by evaluating foot volumes, arthritis scoring index (AI), blood routine, rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody, and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and inflammatory factors. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry were used to examine protein expression in the ankle joints to elucidate the mechanism of QHSST action.

Results

We identified 44 compounds using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS. Additionally, network pharmacology revealed five active ingredients and seven key targets. GO and KEGG analyses highlighted the involvement of PI3K-Akt signaling and tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance pathways. Cell studies showed that QHSST reduced apoptosis, NO, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, while increasing IL-10 level in the dexamethasone and 3.125 µg/mL groups, indicating its anti-inflammatory effects. Animal experiments revealed that QHSST and methotrexate significantly decreased AI scores, foot volumes, and blood routine. H&E staining revealed varying degrees of joint harm, accompanied by a decrease in RF, anti-CCP antibody, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, and an increase in IL-10 level, underscoring the efficacy of QHSST in treating RA. ELISA and immunohistochemistry suggest that QHSST may exerts its effects by modulating the EGFR/SRC/PI3 K/AKT/NF-κB pathway.

Conclusion

Our findings provide a scientific foundation for therapeutic benefits of QHSST in alleviating RA by confirming the anti-inflammatory and RA-relieving properties of the supplement.
Comparison of Early-Stage Knee Osteoarthritis Induced by Medial Meniscus Tear Versus Tibial Osteotomy in the Rat Model
Authors: Thever Yogen , Shen Xuanrong Michael , Rong Chuin Toh , Bin Abd Razak Hamid Rahmatullah
Published: December 2024

Objective

Medial meniscus tear (MMT) is a common method to induce osteoarthritis in rats, but mimics secondary osteoarthritis. A novel method of carrying out a medial wedge closing tibial osteotomy (TO) has been recently developed to induce primary osteoarthritis. This study aims to validate it, compared to MMT.

Methods

Twenty rats were divided equally into 2 groups. Outcome measures such as histology graded according to Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) guidelines and computed tomography (CT) scans were analyzed at 6 weeks post-operatively. Observational gait analysis and serum biomarkers such as C-terminal cross-linked telopeptides of type II collagen (CTX-II) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) were collected at 2-weekly intervals up to 6 weeks post-operatively.

Results

Serum CTX-II and IL-1β levels did not reveal a statistically significant difference across all time points between the 2 groups. CT grading was significantly more severe (2.80 ± 1.10 vs 1.40 ± 0.548, P = 0.0389) in the MMT group compared to the TO group. In addition, histological gradings such as calcified cartilage score (2.10 ± 1.91 vs 0.00 ± 0.00, P < 0.01) and cartilage degeneration score (4.80 ± 5.18 vs 0.00 ± 0.00, P < 0.01) revealed significantly more severe osteoarthritis in the MMT compared to TO group. Synovial membrane score did not reveal a statistically significant difference (1.10 ± 0.994 vs 1.00 ± 0.00, P = 1.00).

Conclusion

TO is a novel method in inducing primary osteoarthritis in the rat model compared to MMT between the 6 and 12 weeks’ time frame.
Protocol of a mixed-methods evaluation of Perfect Fit: A personalized mHealth intervention with a virtual coach to promote smoking cessation and physical activity in adults
Authors: van Vliet Milon H. M. , Versluis Anke , Chavannes Niels H. , Scheltinga Bouke L. , Albers Nele , Penfornis Kristell M. , Baccinelli Walter , Meijer Eline ,   on behalf of the Perfect Fit consortium
Published: December 2024

Objective

Adopting healthy behavior is vital for preventing chronic diseases. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions utilizing virtual coaches (i.e., artificial intelligence conversational agents) can offer scalable and cost-effective solutions. Additionally, targeting multiple unhealthy behaviors, like low physical activity and smoking, simultaneously seems beneficial. We developed Perfect Fit, an mHealth intervention with a virtual coach providing personalized feedback to simultaneously promote smoking cessation and physical activity. Through innovative methods (e.g., sensor technology) and iterative development involving end-users, we strive to overcome challenges encountered by mHealth interventions, such as shortage of evidence-based interventions and insufficient personalization. This paper outlines the content of Perfect Fit and the protocol for evaluating its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness, the role of participant characteristics, and the study's feasibility.

Methods

A single-arm, mixed-method, real-world evaluation study will be conducted in the Netherlands. We aim to recruit 100 adult daily smokers intending to quit within 6 weeks. The personalized intervention will last approximately 16 weeks. Primary outcomes include Perfect Fit's feasibility and acceptability. Secondary outcomes are preliminary effectiveness and study feasibility, and we will measure participant characteristics. Quantitative data will be collected through questionnaires administered at baseline, post-intervention and 2, 6, and 12 months post-intervention. Qualitative data will be gathered via semi-structured interviews post-intervention. Data analysis will involve descriptive analyses, generalized linear mixed models (quantitative) and the Framework Approach (qualitative), integrating quantitative and qualitative data during interpretation.

Conclusions

This study will provide novel insight into the potential of interventions like Perfect Fit, as a multiple health behavior change strategy. Findings will inform further intervention development and help identify methods to foster feasibility and acceptability. Successful mHealth interventions with virtual coaches will prevent chronic diseases and promote public health.
Prospective acceptability of using mHealth interventions for oral health promotion in a sample of Egyptian women: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Sharaf Mariam , Abou El Fadl Reham Khaled
Published: December 2024

Background

Unless a health intervention is acceptable to target audience and aligns with their needs and preferences, there is increased likelihood that they would not engage with and benefit from it as planned. Despite that, there is paucity of studies exploring acceptability of oral health promotion interventions prior to implementation. This cross-sectional study was designed to investigate Egyptian women's “ prospective acceptability” to use mobile technologies in promoting access to oral health services.

Methods

A total of 959 participants completed a questionnaire, based on Sekhon's theoretical framework of acceptability, either in-person or virtually. Data was collected on sociodemographics, smartphones’ ownership and usage patterns, acceptability to use mHealth interventions, and any potential motivators and barriers. Chi-square test was used for descriptive statistics and regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of acceptability to use digital technology in improving oral and dental health.

Results

83 % of women residing in urban settings versus 80.7% in rural settings believed that mHealth could improve health outcomes. WhatsApp was identified by 68% of participants as the preferred application for adopting mobile health services. Health awareness (36.8%) and effort & time saving (29%) were the most commonly cited motivators for using mHealth while lack of time (33%) and privacy issues (14.2%) were the main barriers.

Conclusions

mHealth is perceived as a highly acceptable approach for promoting oral health among Egyptian women. However, mHealth interventions should take into consideration privacy concerns and personal security when targeting this group.
Universal school-based e-health interventions for wellbeing, anxiety and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Miller Edward , Thabrew Hiran
Published: December 2024

Background

Given that ‘digitally native’ children and young people spend much time at school, universal e-mental health interventions (ueMHIs) may have a role in supporting their wellbeing and reducing common mental health problems like anxiety and depression. However, the efficacy of school-based ueMHIs has never formally been evaluated.

Methods

During this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched online databases MEDLINE, ERIC and ACM and the grey literature for trials of school-based ueMHIs targeted at improving wellbeing or reducing anxiety or depression in students aged 5–18. Primary outcomes were changes in symptoms of wellbeing, anxiety and depression at <3 months. Secondary outcomes were changes in these symptoms at 3–12 months and >12 months. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model. Quality of included studies was appraised using the Cochrane risk of bias (RoB) tool. This study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023421872.

Findings

From 11,026 screened records, 15 papers were found and included in a systematic review. Of these, 14 papers including 8844 students were analysed in the meta-analysis. School-based ueMHIs did not significantly reduce anxiety (SMD = −0.55, 95% CI −1.68, 0.59) or depression (SMD = −0.29, 95% CI = −0.89, 0.32) at <3 months. School-based ueMHIs also did not significantly reduce anxiety (SMD = −1.03, 95% CI −3.20, 1.14) or depression (SMD = −0.47, 95% CI −1.40, 0.46) at 3–12 months. School-based ueMHIs did not significantly improve wellbeing at <3 months (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI −0.12, 0.14) and favoured control condition at 3–12 months (SMD = −0.14, 95% CI −0.23, −0.05). RoB was high across most studies and the overall quality of evidence was very low.

Interpretation

Although existing school-based ueMHIs show promise for addressing pupil mental health concerns, further higher-quality evidence is needed. There is room for the development of new school-based ueMHIs for reducing pupil anxiety and depression and improving wellbeing in a scalable, clinically and cost-effective manner, whilst not causing harm.