bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking potential: a qualitative exploration guiding the implementation and evaluation of professional role substitution models in healthcare
Authors: Mutsekwa Rumbidzai N. , Campbell Katrina L. , Canavan Russell , Angus Rebecca L. , McBride Liza-Jane , Byrnes Joshua M.
Published: July 2024

Background

As role substitution models gain prominence in healthcare, understanding the factors shaping their effectiveness is paramount. This study aimed to investigate factors that impact the implementation and performance evaluation of professional role substitution models in healthcare, with a focus on understanding the variables that determine their success or failure in adoption, execution, continuity, and outcomes.

Methods

The exploratory qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with key opinion leaders, decision makers, facilitators, recipients, and frontline implementers, who had influence and involvement in the implementation of professional role substitution models. Data analysis was guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Results

Between November 2022 and April 2023, 39 stakeholders were interviewed. Factors influencing implementation and evaluation of allied health professional role substitution models of care aligned with the five core CFIR domains (innovation, outer setting, inner setting, individuals, implementation process) and outcome domain incorporating implementation and innovation outcomes. The six themes identified within these CFIR domains were, respectively; i) Examining the dynamics of innovation catalysts, evidence, advantages, and disadvantages; ii) Navigating the complex landscape of external factors that influence implementation and evaluation; iii) Impact of internal structural, political, and cultural contexts; iv) The roles and contributions of individuals in the process; v) Essential phases and strategies for effective implementation; and vi) The assessment of outcomes derived from allied health professional role substitution models.

Conclusions

The study highlights the complex interplay of contextual and individual factors that influence the implementation and performance evaluation of professional role substitution models. It emphasises the need for collaboration among diverse stakeholders to navigate the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by expanded healthcare roles. Understanding these multifaceted factors can contribute to the development of an empowered workforce and a healthcare system that is more efficient, effective, safe, and sustainable, ultimately benefiting patients.
Quantitative Integrative Survival Prediction in Multiple Myeloma Patients Treated With Bortezomib-Based Induction, High-Dose Therapy and Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Hummel Manuela , Hielscher Thomas , Emde-Rajaratnam Martina , Salwender Hans , Beck Susanne , Scheid Christof , Bertsch Uta , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Jauch Anna , Moreaux Jérôme , Seckinger Anja , Hose Dirk
Published: July 2024

PURPOSE

Given the high heterogeneity in survival for patients with multiple myeloma, it would be clinically useful to quantitatively predict the individual survival instead of attributing patients to two to four risk groups as in current models, for example, revised International Staging System (R-ISS), R2-ISS, or Mayo-2022-score.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Our aim was to develop a quantitative prediction tool for individual patient's 3-/5-year overall survival (OS) probability. We integrated established clinical and molecular risk factors into a comprehensive prognostic model and evaluated and validated its risk discrimination capabilities versus R-ISS, R2-ISS, and Mayo-2022-score.

RESULTS

A nomogram for estimating OS probabilities was built on the basis of a Cox regression model. It allows one to translate the individual risk profile of a patient into 3-/5-year OS probabilities by attributing points to each prognostic factor and summing up all points. The nomogram was externally validated regarding discrimination and calibration. There was no obvious bias or overfitting of the prognostic index on the validation cohort. Resampling-based and external evaluation showed good calibration. The c-index of the model was similar on the training (0.76) and validation cohort (0.75) and significantly higher than for the R-ISS ( P < .001) or R2-ISS ( P < .01).

CONCLUSION

In summary, we developed and validated individual quantitative nomogram-based OS prediction. Continuous risk assessment integrating molecular prognostic factors is superior to R-ISS, R2-ISS, or Mayo-2022-score alone.
Risk Factors for Bone Microarchitecture Impairments in Older Men With Type 2 Diabetes—The MrOS Study
Authors: Faraj Malak , Schwartz Ann V , Burghardt Andrew J , Black Dennis , Orwoll Eric , Strotmeyer Elsa S , Vittinghoff Eric , Fogolari Marta , Angeletti Silvia , Banfi Giuseppe , Lombardi Giovanni , Woods Gina , Lui Li-Yung , Bouxsein Mary , Napoli Nicola
Published: July 2024

Context

Impaired bone microarchitecture, assessed by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT), may contribute to bone fragility in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) but data on men are lacking.

Objective

To investigate the association between T2DM and HR-pQCT parameters in older men.

Methods

HR-pQCT scans were acquired on 1794 participants in the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men study. T2DM was ascertained by self-report or medication use. Linear regression models, adjusted for age, race, body mass index, limb length, clinic site, and oral corticosteroid use, were used to compare HR-pQCT parameters by diabetes status.

Results

Among 1777 men, 290 had T2DM (mean age, 84.4 years). T2DM men had smaller total cross-sectional area at the distal tibia (P = .028) and diaphyseal tibia (P = .025), and smaller cortical area at the distal (P = .009) and diaphyseal tibia (P = .023). Trabecular indices and cortical porosity were similar between T2DM and non-T2DM. Among men with T2DM, in a model including HbA1c, diabetes duration, and insulin use, diabetes duration ≥ 10 years, compared with <10 years, was significantly associated with higher cortical porosity but with higher trabecular thickness at the distal radius. Insulin use was significantly associated with lower cortical area and thickness at the distal radius and diaphyseal tibia and lower failure load at all 3 scan sites. Lower cortical area, cortical thickness, total bone mineral density, cortical bone mineral density, and failure load of the distal sites were associated with increased risk of incident nonvertebral fracture in T2DM.

Conclusion

Older men with T2DM have smaller bone size compared to those without T2DM, which may contribute to diabetic skeletal fragility. Longer diabetes duration was associated with higher cortical porosity and insulin use with cortical bone deficits and lower failure load.
It drives me mad seeing people answer questions with so: Overt and covert attitudes toward so-prefacing answers
Authors: Graves Syelle
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates attitudes toward prefacing the answer to a question from an interlocutor with the discourse marker so, which has been tentatively found to be on the rise since the 1990s. Functions of this form, informally referred to as “backstory so,” include marking added background or length that is unexpected by the questioner. This paper presents (i) evidence in the popular media that it is perceived as new and overtly associated with negative attributes (annoying, condescending) and differing stereotypes (scientific experts, Valley Girls); and (ii) findings of a matched guise that investigated whether those associations remain indexed by so-prefacing answers when attitudes are elicited implicitly. Statistically significant results of t-tests and a principal component analysis suggest that so-prefacing answers was perceived more negatively than a control discourse marker, well, in both a female and male voice, on a status axis (e.g., less Educated and Intelligent), as expected. On a solidarity axis, the male so guise also earned poorer evaluations than the control but the female so guise was not evaluated quite as negatively, which had not been reflected in the overt attitudes. The so guises were also more linked to Valley Girl and Tech Bro speech.
A detailed methodology for a three-dimensional, self-structuring bone model that supports the differentiation of osteoblasts towards osteocytes and the production of a complex collagen-rich mineralised matrix
Authors: Finlay Melissa , Hill Laurence A , Neag Georgiana , Patel Binal , Chipara Miruna , Lamont Hannah C , Frost Kathryn , Patrick Kieran , Lewis Jonathan W , Nicholson Thomas , Edwards James , Jones Simon W , Grover Liam M , Naylor Amy J
Published: July 2024

Background There are insufficient in vitro bone models that accommodate long-term culture of osteoblasts and support their differentiation to osteocytes. The increased demand for effective therapies for bone diseases, and the ethical requirement to replace animals in research, warrants the development of such models. Here we present an in-depth protocol to prepare, create and maintain three-dimensional, in vitro, self-structuring bone models that support osteocytogenesis and long-term osteoblast survival (>1 year). Methods Osteoblastic cells are seeded on a fibrin hydrogel, cast between two beta-tricalcium phosphate anchors. Analytical methods optimised for these self-structuring bone model (SSBM) constructs, including RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence staining and XRF, are described in detail. Results Over time, the cells restructure and replace the initial matrix with a collagen-rich, mineralising one; and demonstrate differentiation towards osteocytes within 12 weeks of culture. Conclusions Whilst optimised using a secondary human cell line (hFOB 1.19), this protocol readily accommodates osteoblasts from other species (rat and mouse) and origins (primary and secondary). This simple, straightforward method creates reproducible in vitro bone models that are responsive to exogenous stimuli, offering a versatile platform for conducting preclinical translatable research studies.
Successful implementation of interprofessional education: A pedagogical design perspective
Authors: Lepage-Farrell Alex , Pinard Anne Marie , Richard Amélie
Published: July 2024

Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is crucial within healthcare teams that must provide safe and quality care to their patients. Competent professionals in this area offer better care and contribute to a medical culture where IPC and teamwork are valued. To become competent, they must be adequately trained. Unfortunately, the literature describes that collaboration training is uneven across professions. Interprofessional education (IPE) could fill this educational gap but remains challenging to implement. This article aims to present ten clear and concise considerations to implementing IPE initiatives successfully, following a well-described pedagogical designing process. After reading, the clinician-educator will be informed of the newest evidence in IPE as well as the common pitfalls to avoid. From the starting point of a recent synthesis article on IPE, several additional syntheses, analyses, and recommendations articles were consulted and synthesized. From that, the findings are organized according to the “ADDIE” model, a flexible methodology used in pedagogical design through iterative cycles in context. The phases of “ADDIE” are analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation. According to these phases, the considerations will be presented to allow the reader to apply them "step by step" in their educational planning process. Ten considerations are presented, from the needs analysis, stakeholders and Faculty involvement, composition of the design team, selection of students and types of learning activity, the role of reflexivity, training of facilitators, supervision, and the continuous improvement process. Taken together, these will contribute to highlighting the essential nature of training in collaboration in modern professionalizing programs.
Advancing research on Blastocystis through a One Health approach
Authors: Tsaousis Anastasios D. , Gentekaki Eleni , Stensvold C. Rune
Published: July 2024

Blastocystis is the most prevalent intestinal eukaryotic microorganism with significant impacts on both human and animal health. Despite extensive research, its pathogenicity remains controversial. The COST Action CA21105, "Blastocystis under One Health" (OneHealthBlastocystis), aims to bridge gaps in our understanding by fostering a multidisciplinary network. This initiative focuses on developing standardised diagnostic methodologies, establishing a comprehensive subtype and microbiome databank, and promoting capacity building through education and collaboration. The Action is structured into five working groups, each targeting specific aspects of Blastocystis research, including epidemiology, diagnostics, 'omics technologies, in vivo and in vitro investigations, and data dissemination. By integrating advances across medical, veterinary, public, and environmental health, this initiative seeks to harmonise diagnostics, improve public health policies, and foster innovative research, ultimately enhancing our understanding of Blastocystis and its role in health and disease. This collaborative effort is expected to lead to significant advancements and practical applications, benefiting the scientific community and public health.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in pregnancy – a multidisciplinary approach to family planning and adverse outcomes prevention
Authors: Nowak Aleksandra , Janus Anita , Łoś Dawid , Kaptur Agata , Dziedziński Dawid
Published: July 2024

Introduction and purpose
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a chronic multisystemic autoimmune disease with periods of remissions and flares [1,5,25]. Because of its possible consequences and unpredictability, it is undoubtedly an issue for such patients to decide about pregnancy [3]. 
The main aim of this review is to present the possible risks of SLE in pregnancy, its general management and current recommendations regarding pregnancy planning and pre-/postnatal care. 
Review Methods
 
For the review we conducted research of scientific literature from PubMed and books, applying the keywords (below). Consequently, we included in our references above 20 selected articles published between 2017-2024 and 3 chapters of different medical books. All of these were analyzed in terms of their currency and relevance.
 
A brief description of the State of Knowledge
 
SLE mostly affects women at the reproductive age [2, 3,5]. It often requires long-term therapy that aims to achieve and maintain an inactive stage by means of numerous aggressive drugs. Its proper management in gestation is even more challenging than usually, owing to the increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO) and higher maternal mortality [1,2,4,5,7]. Therefore, to achieve successful pregnancy, risk stratification, therapy modification and individually adjusted plan of follow-up visits are the most crucial conditions to be met [1,6,7,13]. 
 
Summary
 
Considering all the potential complications that may occur in general, the issue of family planning should be raised with every female patient [5,6]. The key to the best outcomes is proper implementation of current strategies and empowering the patient to be an active and aware participant in the decision-making process [1,3,4,6,11].
The Impact of Smoking on General Anesthesia: A Literature Review
Authors: Kaptur Agata , Dziedziński Dawid , Łoś Dawid , Nowak Aleksandra , Janus Anita
Published: July 2024

The interplay between smoking and general anesthesia encompasses significant perioperative risks and complications. This comprehensive review evaluates the physiological consequences of smoking that challenge anesthetic management, including its effects on respiratory and cardiovascular system. We also analyse the impact smoking has on the metabolism of medications commonly used during anasthesia. Common complications of general anesthesia exacerbated by smoking are presented. The review elaborates on the Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement 2020 guidelines for preoperative smoking cessation, emphasizing the timing and intensity of interventions, the use of pharmacotherapies, and the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach for improving patient outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of early smoking cessation, which reduces respiratory complications. E-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid are discussed. Lastly, the paper calls for vigilance in the perioperative management of smokers and the integration of cessation initiatives as a potential "teachable moment" for long-term abstinence.
Flozins in Reducing Cardiovascular and Metabolic Risk: A Literature Review
Authors: Sieniawska Daria , Sieniawska Julia , Proszowska Patrycja
Published: July 2024

Introduction
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a significant worldwide health issue, impacting millions of patients and being the primary cause of global illness and death. The combination of SGLT2 inhibitors with weight loss and physical activity can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. Beyond their primary antihyperglycemic effects, SGLT2 inhibitors elicit pleiotropic benefits including weight loss and favorable alterations in lipid metabolism, culminating in a cardioprotective metabolic environment.
Aim of the study
The aim of the study is to investigate the pleiotropic benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors, including their effects on weight loss, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular health, in individuals.
Materials and methods
This study presents the current state of knowledge about metabolic and cardiovascular benefits associated with SGLT2 inhibitors in various scientific articles. PubMed database was searched for articles written in English. The search included the keywords „SGLT2-inhibitors”; “SGLT2-inhibitors mechanism of action”; „heart failure”; „cardiovascular events”.
Results
SGLT2 inhibitors enhance glycemic control, decrease body weight and visceral fat, and ameliorate several metabolic abnormalities linked to metabolic syndrome, including lipid profile. Clinical investigations have underscored the cardiovascular benefits conferred by SGLT2 inhibitors. Reductions in major adverse cardiovascular events and heart failure-related hospitalizations have been consistently observed, irrespective of diabetic status. Guidelines now advocate for the incorporation of SGLT2 inhibitors as first-line therapies for HFrEF and HFpEF. This endorsement underscores the transformative impact of SGLT2 inhibitors on cardiovascular outcomes.
The therapeutic potential of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the management of inflammatory skin disorders
Authors: Wójcik Emilia , Korczak Anna , Łopacińska Olga , Szewczyk Oliwia , Czarnecka Karolina , Burda Katarzyna , Korn Aleksandra , Olek Ewa , Stańczyk Katarzyna , Jędrzejczyk Justyna
Published: July 2024

Introduction and purpose: Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are a well-known component of a nutritionally balanced diet. There is a wealth of evidence demonstrating that the ingestion of these substances enhances health, as they are involved in a multitude of metabolic processes that are essential for cellular functionality. However, the contemporary Western diet is distinguished by a reduction in the consumption of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The objective of this review is to present the potential therapeutic efficacy of omega-3 PUFA supplementation in the most common inflammatory skin disorders, such as acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis vulgaris.
State of knowledge: Acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis vulgaris differ in terms of their pathophysiology. However, they are all characterised by underlying inflammatory processes. Omega-3 fatty acids have been demonstrated to possess anti-inflammatory properties. They are capable of modulating both the innate and the adaptive immune responses, thereby alleviating the symptoms of the aforementioned skin disorders.
Summary: Given the pluripotent anti-inflammatory qualities of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, it is reasonable to conclude that they have the potential to become an effective therapeutic tool in the management of inflammatory skin diseases.
Audit and Remediation Strategies in the Presence of Evasion Capabilities
Authors: Wang Shouqiang , de Véricourt Francis , Sun Peng
Published: July 2024

When companies or organizations can evade audits on their harmful incidents, how should the affected entities design their audit and penalty policies? In “Audit and Remediation Strategies in the Presence of Evasion Capabilities” by Wang, de Véricourt, and Sun, the authors find random audits may be needed in the optimal policy. Specifically, the optimal policy alternates between ascending monetary penalties (without any audits) and random audits at a constant rate (when the penalty reach its maximum level). Only when the evasion is ineffective or the self-correction is too costly do deterministic audits become optimal. They tackle the problem in a continuous-time principal-agent framework with both adverse selection and moral hazard.
“WALKING SIMULATORS”, LITERATURA ELETRÔNICA E OUTRAS FORMAS DE CONTAR HISTÓRIAS: O CASO DO JOGO EVERYBODY’S GONE TO THE RAPTURE
Authors: Bueno Arbo Jade
Published: July 2024

Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture (em tradução livre, “Todos partiram para o arrebatamento”), é um jogo eletrônico lançado em 2015 pela desenvolvedora de jogos The Chinese Room. Como um exemplo de jogo denominado, por vezes pejorativamente, de “walking simulator”, Rapture tensiona as divisões entre o aspecto de “jogo” e de “narrativo” na Literatura Eletrônica. Neste artigo, examinaremos Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture pelas lentes da ainda emergente Literatura Eletrônica de forma a argumentar que o gênero popularizado como “walking simulator” tanto enfatiza a potencialidade narrativa e literária dos jogos eletrônicos, como desafia formas narrativas centradas em um herói e na violência como forma de ação e progresso narrativo. Para isso, será apresentada uma breve descrição da origem e características desse gênero; em seguida, olharemos para a discussão sobre Literatura Eletrônica, aplicando-a à materialidade do texto de Rapture e estabelecendo um possível enquadramento para a análise de jogos eletrônicos de forma mais ampla. Por fim, será feita uma breve análise de Rapture como uma narrativa em formato de “bolsa” a partir do diálogo entre Donna Haraway e Ursula K. Le Guin acerca da emergência de novas formas de contar histórias.
A FRAGMENTAÇÃO DO LITERÁRIO: O LIVRO-JOGO “DESPAGINADO” E SUAS POSSIBILIDADES DE LEITURA
Authors: Setton Luisa , Teixeira de Almeida Luara
Published: July 2024

Ainda que, tradicionalmente, o formato códex seja o mais utilizado em livros destinados preferencialmente para crianças e jovens, diversas são as experimentações que levaram ao que conhecemos, atualmente, como livros-objetos - em que a materialidade conta para a construção de sentido tanto quanto as outras linguagens presentes na obra. O presente artigo tem como objetivo se debruçar e compreender os livros-cartão, ou seja, livros que tem, como característica principal, a “despaginação” - páginas soltas em forma de cartões individuais e que se relacionam, de alguma forma, entre si. A partir disso pensaremos como a co-criação é possibilitada por meio da leitura e mediação, abrindo espaço para a interatividade e imaginação.. Como embasamento teórico contamos, principalmente, com os estudos de Bajour (2012), Beckett (2012) e Silva (2016), além de apresentar e analisar obras literárias que ilustram como a fragmentação das páginas oferece ludicidade e potencialidade para os leitores de todas as idades.
Acesso à informação por meio do sítio eletrônico da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde de Manaus/AM: em foco HIV/AIDS, IST e Hepatites Virais
Authors: Oliveira Márcio de , Fernandes Wania Ribeiro , Cacau Claudiney Lofiego , Nascimento Jefferson Araújo
Published: July 2024

A busca por informações em relação à Educação em Saúde pode contribuir de forma muito positiva na prevenção e no combate a várias infecções e doenças, entre elas as de contágio por meio da prática/relação sexual. Junto a isso, destacamos que entre os/as jovens, há certa facilidade de buscar tais informações por meio virtual, acessando canais de comunicação por meio de computadores, celulares, notebooks, dentre outros instrumentos que permitem o acesso e a navegação à internet. Nesse sentido, o objetivo do presente artigo está em analisar como estão dispostas as informações acerca do Vírus da Imunodeficiência Humana (HIV – na sigla em inglês), da Síndrome da Imunodeficiência Adquirida (AIDS – na sigla em inglês), das Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST) e das Hepatites Virais no sítio eletrônico da Secretaria de Saúde de Manaus/AM. Para tal, optamos por uma pesquisa bibliográfica e documental de caráter qualitativo. Por fim, concluímos que no conjunto de estratégias para que o site da SEMSA se torne uma grande ferramenta para divulgação das campanhas e do que se trata HIV/AIDS, IST e Hepatites Virais, avaliamos ser necessária a criação de uma aba dedicada para elas especificamente, com estrutura e design que chamem a atenção principalmente dos/as jovens, com linguagem e aspectos regionais, o que poderia potencializar sua visualização e divulgação de conhecimento, além de ser um meio de contribuição para a reflexão coletiva sobre o tema apresentado e auxiliar na construção do censo crítico em relação às doenças e infecções de aspecto sexual.
Da preparação à prática de projetos à luz da biossegurança
Authors: Lima Rebeca Vieira de , Guimarães Gabriela Gomes , Canelada Ana Carolina Negraes , Rozendo Fernanda Carolina , Sousa Cristina Paiva de
Published: July 2024

É de grande importância a conscientização das pessoas em biossegurança em todas as etapas que envolvam um projeto laboratorial, desde a elaboração, o desenvolvimento até a finalização. Foi com este intuito que este artigo foi elaborado, um compilado de pontos a serem constantemente analisados e praticados no âmbito laboratorial à luz da biossegurança, prezando pela saúde individual, coletiva e pelo meio ambiente. Dessa forma, foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico de normas, manuais, discussões e artigos contendo informações de biossegurança que foram aqui refletidos sob a perspectiva da preparação de um projeto, de forma individual ou por uma equipe laboratorial, enfatizando a importância de treinamentos, atualizações e cumprimento de normas.
Ensino superior, trabalho docente e pandemia: reflexões necessárias
Authors: Fernandes Fagner D'ambroso , Martins França Creuza , Eire Méllo Diene
Published: July 2024

No início do ano de 2020 e durante o ano de 2021, o isolamento social tornou-se necessário e fundamental para a contenção da contaminação entre humanos pelo SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Assim, no decorrer desse período, as atividades de ensino passaram a ser desenvolvidas por meio das Tecnologias de informação e comunicação (TIC) e, no caso brasileiro, esse processo denominou-se de ERE (Ensino Remoto Emergencial). Dessa forma, este trabalho teve como objetivo identificar as alterações didáticas que ocorreram durante o ensino remoto nesse período. A pesquisa possui abordagem qualitativa, de natureza exploratória-explicativa e teve como instrumento de coleta de dados um questionário online enviado aleatoriamente a docentes do ensino superior de várias instituições brasileiras - públicas e privadas por meio da ferramenta Google Formulários. Ao todo, 94 docentes responderam ao instrumento. Os resultados apontam que, apesar das dificuldades encontradas pelos docentes, houve a presença de aspectos positivos em relação aos usos de estratégias didáticas no emprego de tecnologias. Para além das questões de ordem didático-pedagógicas, os dados também revelam uma sobrecarga de trabalho que pode ter influenciado o resultado do trabalho docente.
Ashley John-Baptiste
Authors: Virdi Amrit
Published: July 2024

Amrit Virdi speaks to BBC journalist about his new book on his care experience
Factors associated with musculoskeletal pain in ambulatory individuals with spinal cord injury
Authors: Khamnon Narongsak ,   Department of Physical Therapy, School of Integrative Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai Province, Thailand, Amatachaya Sugalya , Thaweewannakij Thiwabhorn , Mato Lugkana ,   School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand,   School of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand,   Improvement of Physical Performance and Quality of Life (IPQ) Research Group, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen Province, Thailand
Published: July 2024

Background: Such myriad consequences of musculoskeletal pain were common and distorted the level of functioning after spinal cord injury (SCI). No known data identifies pain-related factors in ambulatory individuals with SCI. Objective: To examine the risk factors for musculoskeletal pain in ambulatory patients with SCI. Materials and methods: A total of 138 ambulatory participants with SCI were interviewed and evaluated for their demographics, SCI traits, levels of locomotor disability (Functional Independence Measure-Locomotor), and data on musculoskeletal pain, including area, cause, and severity of pain using a body chart diagram and Visual Analogue Scale. Then, logistic regression was used to analyze risk factors associated with musculoskeletal pain. Results: Precisely, 55.07% of the 138 ambulatory individuals with SCI reported musculoskeletal pain. The common top three areas of pain include the lower back (27%), hip (23%) and shoulder (15%). Factors associated with musculoskeletal pain include being a man and FIM-L 6 in which males had OR=3.56 (95% CI, 1.62-7.84; p=0.002) and FIM-L 6 had OR=2.57 (95% CI, 1.08-6.10; p=0.032). Conclusion: The present findings revealed that musculoskeletal pain is highly prevalent in ambulatory individuals with SCI. Ambulatory individuals with SCI who are males and able to walk at least 50 meters while using gait devices are most concerned about musculoskeletal pain problems.
Association between sensory processing patterns and stress among communitydwelling people with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Pomngen Ilada ,   Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, Srikhamjak Tiam , Kumsaiyai Warunee , Kaunnil Anuchart , Sirisatayawong Pornpen ,   Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand,   Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand,   Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand,   Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Published: July 2024

Background: Stress is a risk factor for metabolic syndrome (MetS). High and low sensory stimulation can trigger high stress, but no research exists on the relationship between sensory processing patterns and stress among people with MetS. Objective: This study examined the association between sensory processing patterns and stress. Materials and methods: A total of 117 people with MetS in the Nam Phrea subdistrict, Hang-Dong District, Chiang-Mai Province, Thailand, aged 35-85, completed the Thai Sensory Patterns Assessment-Adult Version (TSPA) and the Thai Stress Test (TST-24). Demographic and metabolic variable information was gathered. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the demographic characteristics and stress. Spearman’s correlation and regression analysis examined the associations between the sensory processing patterns in each sensory modality and stress scores. Results: A total stress score was significantly correlated with preferences in visual and auditory senses, as well as with arousal levels in visual and smell-taste senses (r =-0.397, -0.199, -0.358, 0.268, and p<0.05). Regression analysis revealed that stress can be predicted by preferences and arousal levels in visual and smell-taste senses (R2 =0.156, 0.039, 0.174, and 0.050, respectively; p<0.05). Conclusion: The results suggest that sensory processing patterns might associated with stress, which is a predictor of MetS. Health professionals can utilize acquired knowledge to implement sensory-based interventions for individuals with MetS to address their stress issues.
Are case reports valuable? Exploring their role in evidence based medicine and patient care
Authors: Suvvari Tarun Kumar
Published: July 2024

Case reports, often overlooked in evidence-based medicine (EBM), play a pivotal role in healthcare research. They provide unique insights into rare conditions, novel treatments, and adverse effects, serving as valuable educational tools and generating new hypothesis. Despite their limitations in generalizability, case reports contribute significantly to evidence-based practice by offering detailed clinical information and fostering critical thinking among healthcare professionals. By acknowledging their limitations and adhering to reporting guidelines, case reports can contribute significantly to medical knowledge and patient care within the evolving landscape of EBM. This editorial explores the intrinsic value of case reports in EBM and patient care.
Computed tomography-based radiomics predicts the fibroblast-related gene EZH2 expression level and survival of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu Ting-Yu , Zhan Ze-Juan , Lin Qi , Huang Zhen-Huan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common subtype of liver cancer. The primary treatment strategies for HCC currently include liver transplantation and surgical resection. However, these methods often yield unsatisfactory outcomes, leading to a poor prognosis for many patients. This underscores the urgent need to identify and evaluate novel therapeutic targets that can improve the prognosis and survival rate of HCC patients.

AIM

To construct a radiomics model that can accurately predict the EZH2 expression in HCC.

METHODS

Gene expression, clinical parameters, HCC-related radiomics, and fibroblast-related genes were acquired from public databases. A gene model was developed, and its clinical efficacy was assessed statistically. Drug sensitivity analysis was conducted with identified hub genes. Radiomics features were extracted and machine learning algorithms were employed to generate a radiomics model related to the hub genes. A nomogram was used to illustrate the prognostic significance of the computed Radscore and the hub genes in the context of HCC patient outcomes.

RESULTS

EZH2 and NRAS were independent predictors for prognosis of HCC and were utilized to construct a predictive gene model. This model demonstrated robust performance in diagnosing HCC and predicted an unfavorable prognosis. A negative correlation was observed between EZH2 expression and drug sensitivity. Elevated EZH2 expression was linked to poorer prognosis, and its diagnostic value in HCC surpassed that of the risk model. A radiomics model, developed using a logistic algorithm, also showed superior efficiency in predicting EZH2 expression. The Radscore was higher in the group with high EZH2 expression. A nomogram was constructed to visually demonstrate the significant roles of the radiomics model and EZH2 expression in predicting the overall survival of HCC patients.

CONCLUSION

EZH2 plays significant roles in diagnosing HCC and therapeutic efficacy. A radiomics model, developed using a logistic algorithm, efficiently predicted EZH2 expression and exhibited strong correlation with HCC prognosis.
“Keyboard sign” and “coffee bean sign” in the prenatal diagnosis of ileal atresia: A case report
Authors: Fei Zhi-Hui , Zhou Qi-Yi , Fan Ling , Yin Chan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Ileal atresia is a congenital abnormality where there is significant stenosis or complete absence of a portion of the ileum. The overall diagnostic accuracy of prenatal ultrasound in detecting jejunal and ileal atresia is low. We report a case of ileal atresia diagnosed prenatally by ultrasound examination with the “keyboard sign” and “coffee bean sign”.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a case of ileal atresia diagnosed in utero at 31 weeks' of gestation. Prenatal ultrasound examination revealed two rows of intestines arranged in an ‘S’ shape in the middle abdomen. The inner diameters were 1.7 cm and 1.6 cm, respectively. A typical “keyboard sign” was observed. The intestine canal behind the “keyboard sign” showed an irregular strong echo. There was no normal intestinal wall structure, showing a typical “coffee bean sign”. Termination of the pregnancy and autopsy findings confirmed the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

The prenatal diagnosis of ileal atresia is difficult. The sonographic features of the “keyboard sign” and “coffee bean sign” are helpful in diagnosing the location of congenital jejunal and ileal atresia.
Melissa Officinalis: A Review on the Antioxidant, Anxiolytic, and Anti-depressant Activity
Authors: L Lipoksenla , Kera Viswedenu , Nath Sunit , Kotso Avolu , Resuh Vekutolu , Dutta Abhijit , Wankhar Wankupar
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT: Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent neuropsychiatric disorders globally and significantly contribute to the healthcare burden. Various factors, like stressful events, family history, substance abuse, health issues, hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated oxidative stress. Although numerous medications are available, their efficacy may diminish over time or vary among individuals. Phytomedicine offers a promising approach, focusing on herbal remedies with multiple therapeutic modalities. Melissa Officinalis (MO), a member of the Lamiaceae family, contains flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, and phenolic acids. Essential oils from MO have shown potential in alleviating anxiety, enhancing mood, inducing relaxation, serving as an antidote, acting as an antidepressant, aiding sleep, boosting memory, and improving headaches and insomnia. However, the precise mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects remain unclear. According to our literature, Melissa Officinalis and its active constituents exert their effects through (i) Antioxidant activity to prevent free radical-mediated neuronal damage. (ii) Blocking GABA-Transminase (GABA-T) activity to increase inhibitory GABA concentrations (iii) Inhibit serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake to increase serotonergic and noradrenergic transmission (iv) mild inhibition of Monoamine oxidase A MAO-A to prevent the deamination of amines. To promote the use complementary and alternative medicine by targeting multiple therapeutic modalities are reviewed in this study.
Institutionalization of
Zakat and
Waqf in Contemporary Economies
Authors: Shaikh Salman Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Zakat and Waqf are important social finance institutions, but their utilization and impact are less than optimal compared to the expectation and potential. Part of the reason is weak governance and enforcement. Another notable reason is the complexity of applying old jurisprudential axioms to new modes of production, income, and forms of wealth. Therefore, both jurisprudence related to the institutionalization of Zakat and Waqf and their current governance needs a fresh revisit given the changes in the type of production, the process of production, market structure, forms of business organization, income distribution, storable wealth forms and the functions of a state. The paper highlights several potential anomalies in applying the traditional understanding of institutionalizing Zakat in the context of modern economy, if the implications of choosing a particular way of interpretation among different sets of interpretations are not considered. Thus, serious deliberations are needed on challenges involved and how to overcome them and this paper adds to that dialogue.
Ballet on the Saddle and Stage: Cosmopolitan Transnational Performance at Astley's Amphitheatre
Authors: Lehmann Caitlyn
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article focuses on representations of ballet at Astley's Amphitheatre to examine the venue's negotiations of cultural difference and the politics of empire as a uniquely cross-Channel operation. Tracing the shifting role of ballet at Astley's, from a source of inspiration for John Astley's celebrated dancing-on-horseback routine to its inclusion as a stage-based, nominally "French" entertainment, the article proposes that theatrical dance provided an important counterpoint to the circus's imperialist rhetoric and tendencies to jingoism. By facilitating the promotion of Astley's as an enterprise mediating between French and British cultures, ballet enabled Astley's to manifest a commitment to cosmopolitanism that shored up the circus's appeal across the social classes.
Afterword: Smart Phonemes
Authors: Balfour Ian
Published: July 2024

Abstract: "Smart Phonemes" provides an account of the arguments and achievements of the several expanded roundtable essays collected here together with the posthumous essay by Geoffrey Hartman. It situates Smart's work and the attendant essays within a dialectical play of "then" and "now," a dialectic already operative in Smart's oeuvre, a body of work whose sense of immediacy is enabled partly by its distinctive language underscoring and playing with its materiality.
Building a Culture for Research Data Management in Kenya: A Scoping Review of the Early Indicators
Authors: Nakitare Joel , Mathangani Salome , Kamau Grace
Published: July 2024

abstract: Effective research data management (RDM) is essential to modern scientific investigations. As the volume and complexity of research data increase, researchers, research institutions, and countries are pressured to improve data management practices to ensure transparency, reproducibility, sharing, and reuse of their findings. Researchers and institutions in Kenya, like those in many other developing countries, have begun to adopt the practice. This review examines the early indicators of improved research data management practices in Kenya to identify leaders who would drive the culture of RDM and thus improve research output.
Engagement Scenarios for Tomorrow’s Library Labs
Authors: Webb Katy , Sesink Laurents
Published: July 2024

abstract: Library labs are dedicated spaces with highly trained library, IT, and research support staff. The staff are on hand to help teach faculty and advanced graduate students new and emerging methodologies and technologies. Such a lab is a place to engage in new ways of, for example, doing digital scholarship or putting Open Science into practice. This article looks at ways that researchers engage with library labs and proposes a lab engagement pyramid to distinguish models for deploying trained staff and resources within the library lab space. A lab in an academic library requires the right mindset, skill set, tool set, programs, and staffing. The authors posit that a lab will be most successful if the library identifies the conditions that are desirable for the proposed lab space before it is designed and built. When a lab is already in existence but is underutilized, changing engagement strategies can lead to new growth.
Age dependency of the reduced scattering coefficient and viscoelastic character, and their relationship in Japanese female skin
Authors: Yoshida Kenichiro , Yanagisawa Hiroki
Published: July 2024

We measured the reduced scattering coefficient (µs’) with the edge-loss method at skin sites on the faces and upper arms of Japanese females aged 20s to 50s, and observed significant negative correlations at all sites, including the mouth. At the same mouth site, we also measured the viscoelastic properties with a Cutometer MPA580 and evaluated their correlation with µs’. Significant correlations were observed for the parameters of pliability, the portion of the viscoelasticity during the suction phase, and total recovery from the Cutometer against µs’ with the effect of age removed. The results experimentally suggest the relation between µs’ and the collagen condition.
Perceptual illumination-structure patch decomposition for enhancing complex lighted underwater images
Authors: Deng Xiangyu , Zhu Kexin , Rong Shaowei
Published: July 2024

Due to the influence of natural and artificial lighting, complicated illuminated underwater images suffer from uneven exposure, accompanied by color cast, low contrast, and blurred details. Existing methods often struggle to brighten dark areas and suppress overexposed areas. To this end, a perceptual illumination-structure patch decomposition (PISPD) model is proposed to enhance complex lighted underwater images. The PISPD method is firstly based on two complementary inputs, including a contrast-enhanced image and a detail-sharpened image. To combine the complementary information of two inputs and balance brightness, the PISPD model decomposes the inputs into four elements: perceptual illumination map, contrast, structure, and average intensity. The perceptual illumination map is used to balance brightness, while the contrast, structure, and average intensity are used to integrate the features of the inputs. Moreover, a weighted edge-preserving factor is introduced in the decomposition-fusion process of contrast, structure, and mean intensity to avoid artifacts. This study also provides a benchmark dataset, namely, CLUID, containing 990 complex lighted underwater images. Experiments with qualitative and quantitative analyses show that our PISPD outperforms eight state-of-the-art approaches.
Broadband vortex beam generation by a reflective meta-surface based on a metal double-slit resonant ring
Authors: Yuan Xufeng , Zhao Chaoying
Published: July 2024

Recently, the meta-surface (MS) has emerged as a promising alternative method for generating vortex waves. At the same time, MS also faces the problem of a narrow bandwidth; in order to obtain a broad bandwidth, the MS unit cell structure becomes more and more complex, which will bring many inconveniences to the preparation process of MS devices. Therefore, we want to design a simple MS unit cell with a multi-frequency selection. In this paper, based on the principle of geometric phase, we design a simple reflective MS unit cell based on a metal double-slit resonant ring. We elaborate on the resonance mechanism of the MS unit cell. Under the normal incidence of circularly polarized (CP) waves, the reflection coefficient of the same polarization was greater than 85%. By rotating the orientation angle of the resonator on the MS unit cell, the continuous 2π phase coverage was satisfied in the frequency range of 0.52–1.1 THz, and the relative bandwidth becomes 71.6%. Based on this, we construct a vortex generator by using a 15×15 MS unit array. The right-handed circularly polarized (RCP) waves and left-handed circularly polarized (LCP) wave are separately incident on MS with topological charges of l=+1,+2,+3 under multiple resonant frequencies. The generated RCP vortex wave has topological charges of l=−1,−2,−3 and the generated LCP vortex wave has topological charges of l=+1,+2,+3. The numerical simulation results demonstrate that our designed MS, capable of achieving multiple resonance outcomes, can effectively operate in a multi-broadband mode and produce a wide-band vortex beam. In addition, we also calculate the pattern purity. Through theoretical analysis and numerical simulation, we prove that our designed MS can generate a broadband vortex wave.