bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sea-level changes and human economic development in the northern flank of the Yangtze River Delta during the Middle to Late Holocene
Authors: Du Zhenhan , Feng Dan , Ma Chunmei , Deng Zeyu , Yi Shuangwen , Zhang Hongyan , He Yunao , Zhu Cheng
Published: November 2024

The environmental dynamics in coastal regions are inevitably influenced by fluctuations in sea levels and human interventions. Evidence derived from archeological site remains and sediment cores indicates that sea-level change has been the primary driving force behind the continuous relocation of human settlements since the Holocene epoch. However, the understanding of the Holocene land formation process and its relationship with human activities in the northern flank of the Yangtze River Delta remains limited. The Guoqing Temple, located in southwest Juegang and serving as a hub for sea salt production during the Sui and Tang Dynasties, was established in the Tang Dynasty and served as one of the pivotal points along the Maritime Silk Road. A sedimentary core was obtained in close to the Guoqing Temple, and the sedimentological and micropalaeontological data were analyzed to investigate the process of sedimentary evolution from marine to terrestrial environments, as well as the environmental factors facilitating the development of the salt industry. Analysis results explained that: Between 6360 and 1750 cal yr BP, the study area was situated in a shallow sea on the outermost periphery of the sandbank, with a maximum water depth of 20 m. After 1750 cal yr BP, it underwent a transition to a supratidal low-salinity shallow marsh environment that continued to be influenced by marine conditions. The climate in the study area is primarily influenced by the Asian monsoon: Before 3000 cal yr BP, the overall climatic conditions were characterized by warm and humid conditions; After 3000 cal yr BP, climate stability prevailed in the region. Meanwhile, due to the newly formed wetlands that facilitated extensive salt production, economic shifts toward southern regions, and reforms in salt laws during the Tang Dynasty, Juegang emerged as a flourishing commercial trade hub and a prosperous center for Buddhist culture.
User engagement in digital curation: A systematic review and synthesis
Authors: Lee Pei-Chun
Published: November 2024

This review article synthesizes current research findings to propose effective strategies for measuring and enhancing user engagement in digital curation. This review article synthesizes current research findings to propose effective strategies for measuring and enhancing user engagement in digital curation. By establishing comprehensive frameworks and methodologies, researchers and practitioners can gain deeper insights into user behaviors, preferences, and interactions with curated content. This understanding will improve digital curation practices, ensuring curated resources meet user expectations and needs. The review identifies best practices, offers actionable recommendations, and highlights the critical need for robust user engagement strategies. Through systematic analysis of existing literature, it empowers the digital curation community to develop more effective strategies for managing and curating digital resources, ultimately enhancing user experience and engagement across diverse digital platforms.
The Impact and Potential of Quick Response (QR) Codes in Healthcare: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Joshi Pratyusha , Sawant Sahil
Published: November 2024

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, the integration of innovative technologies is becoming increasingly essential to enhance patient care, medication and overall healthcare outcomes. Quick Response (QR) codes have emerged as a versatile tool with significant potential to revolutionize such aspects of the healthcare industry. Through a review of 30 studies, we uncover the significant impact of integrating QR codes into healthcare systems. Across various domains, QR codes prove instrumental in enhancing patient care, streamlining workflows, and improving communication between healthcare professionals and patients. Notable findings include the role of QR in ensuring medication safety and advancing education as well as training within healthcare settings. Despite some challenges, user satisfaction remains high, underscoring QR codes’ effectiveness in optimizing healthcare delivery and outcomes from a human-centred perspective. This includes considering usability, cognitive load, and ergonomic design, all of which are crucial for maximizing the benefits of QR code technology in healthcare.
Does Location Familiarity Increase Response to Mobile Ads?
Authors: Molitor Dominik , Zubcsek Peter Pal , Spann Martin , Reichhart Philipp
Published: November 2024

Targeting ads based on consumers’ real-time locations has evolved into a practice worth billions of dollars in the advertising industry. Yet, the implications of repeated mobile ad exposure are poorly understood, primarily due to the confounding effects of locational context. This research seeks to bridge this gap. Using two large datasets comprising more than three million observations from a major European mobile telecommunication company, the authors investigate how ad repetition and location revisits (i.e., returning to a previously visited location) jointly determine consumer response to mobile display advertising. The empirical strategy leverages coarsened exact matching combined with a logit model with fixed effects at the consumer-location level. The results show that the ad click-through rate is more than 26% higher at revisited locations than at locations visited for the first time. However, mobile ad repetition decreases click rates, and this effect is amplified at revisited locations. The results contribute to the theory and practice of mobile advertising.
Early Choriocapillaris Dysfunction in Fellow Eyes of Patients with Unilateral Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Toma Caterina , Gatti Valentina , Servillo Andrea , Galotta Antonella , Leonardi Matteo , Ferrante Daniela , Torti Emanuele , Leporati Francesco , Cillà Stefano De
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To investigate early changes in AMD by evaluating and comparing choriocapillaris (CC) flow in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and in healthy controls using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA).

Methods

Patients with unilateral nAMD and no/early/intermediate AMD (no/e/iAMD) in their fellow eye and normal controls who underwent SS-OCT and OCTA where included. CC perfusion was assessed on MATLAB as percentage of flow deficits (FD%) in the central 4.5 × 4.5 mm macular region, after removing artifacts.

Results

81 eyes/patients (22 eyes with noAMD, 30 with eAMD, 29 with iAMD) with unilateral nAMD and 24 controls were analyzed. Median FD% was 8.97 (IQR 8.58–9.53) in AMD group, 8.92 (IQR 8.64–9.27) in noAMD group, 8.96 (IQR 8.46–9.38) in eAMD group, 9.05 (IQR 8.58–9.8) in iAMD group, and 8.22 (IQR 7.78–8.55) in controls. A statistically significant difference in FD% was observed between controls and AMD group (p < 0.001), as well as between each AMD subgroup and controls (noAMD vs controls p = 0.0037; eAMD vs control p = 0.0012; iAMD vs controls p = 0.0002).

Conclusion

This study suggests that CC dysfunction may occur in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral nAMD before visible AMD signs, potentially preceding RPE changes. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore the correlation with AMD development/progression.
Approaches for Benchmarking Single-Cell Gene Regulatory Network Methods
Authors: Karamveer  , Uzun Yasin
Published: November 2024

Gene regulatory networks are powerful tools for modeling genetic interactions that control the expression of genes driving cell differentiation, and single-cell sequencing offers a unique opportunity to build these networks with high-resolution genomic data. There are many proposed computational methods to build these networks using single-cell data, and different approaches are used to benchmark these methods. However, a comprehensive discussion specifically focusing on benchmarking approaches is missing. In this article, we lay the GRN terminology, present an overview of common gold-standard studies and data sets, and define the performance metrics for benchmarking network construction methodologies. We also point out the advantages and limitations of different benchmarking approaches, suggest alternative ground truth data sets that can be used for benchmarking, and specify additional considerations in this context.
Post-Extractivist Horizons in Latin America: Between Utopias and Struggles for Re-Existence Against Neo-Extractivism
Authors: López Flores Pabel Camilo , Ranta Eija
Published: November 2024

The triumph of neoliberal globalisation has been presented as the end of history, with no viable alternatives available. In Latin America, however, the structural adjustment programmes imposed by international financial institutions and the increased role of transnational corporations were resisted by social and popular movements that eventually translated into progressive politics and policies. Nevertheless, despite anti-capitalist and pro-environment rhetoric, extraction of natural resources has continued to expand under progressive governments, with devastating effects on environmental justice and Indigenous peoples’ rights. Focusing on socio-territorial struggles for re-existence in Bolivia through the cases of peasant struggle in Tariquía and the establishment of the National Coordinator for the Defence of Indigenous Territories and Protected Areas (CONTIOCAP), we investigate how Indigenous and peasant organisations resist extractive projects and organise collective life in alternative ways. We show how social actors, especially women, defend, propose and imagine post-extractivist alternatives as a societal horizon – both utopian and possible – to the current socio-ecological crisis, in a context of disillusionment with the government’s rhetoric of vivir bien as a state-led ecological and Indigenous policy. We argue that by defending life, women try to heal the human and more-than-human relationality in the territories impacted by progressive neo-extractivism.
Collapse-based seismic design method
Authors: Jaberi Vahid
Published: November 2024

Continuing the structural analysis until the model reaches its ultimate capacity using an incremental nonlinear time history analysis can incorporate all the behavioral complexities of the structure. This approach ensures that all factors influencing the seismic behavior of structures, which can be simulated in numerical modeling, are fully considered in the analysis. This technique addresses many shortcomings in seismic analysis and structural design, using simple criteria for the accurate design of members. With this perspective, this paper explores the collapse-based seismic design method and provides an approach to determine the ultimate tolerable seismic intensity for a structure, or an appropriate collapse seismic intensity. It also establishes design criteria based on the maximum capacity of structural members under maximum loading and utilizes the endurance time method to perform incremental nonlinear time history analysis quickly and easily. Evaluations show that models designed using this method achieve the desired performance level at different seismic hazard levels, provide sufficient seismic capacity, meet all minimum requirements of the seismic code and standards, and are optimized. Therefore, the procedure presented in this paper is introduced for the analysis, design, evaluation, and retrofitting of structures with simple, accurate, and uniform principles.
Thinking and acting in a sustainable way: Environmental management skills in Finnish and Latvian tourism enterprises
Authors: Veliverronena Linda , Renfors Sanna-Mari , Grinfelde Ilze , van der Steina Aija
Published: November 2024

Tourism enterprises face increasing pressure to become greener, which requires upskilling the skillset of their employees to enable them to contribute to enterprises’ environmental performance. Therefore, the aim of this comparative research is to increase understanding of the needed environmental management skills in tourism enterprises by exploring relevant practices in two Baltic Sea countries: Finland and Latvia. Including these two countries and their different operating environments gives a broader understanding of the needed environmental management skills in a tourism enterprise at different levels, that is, strategic, tactical, and operational. The results show that the readiness to implement environmental management at these three levels is highly linked with the environmental performance at the country level. The higher the performance at the country level, the more strategic environmental management is in tourism enterprises. In addition, the study highlights the connection of tourism policy development and implementation to the environmental performance and skills in tourism enterprises. The results support tourism enterprises in ensuring that employees working in different positions have relevant environmental management skills to engage in environmentally responsible work behaviour.
Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals STAT1 Drives LHPP Downregulation in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Chen Xia , Xu Zhiyun , Zhou Wubi , Zhang Lili , Huang Jian , Bao Dawei
Published: November 2024

Background

Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (ESCC) poses a significant health challenge in China due to its high incidence and mortality. Single-cell transcriptomics has transformed the approach to cancer research, allowing detailed analysis of cellular and molecular heterogeneity. The interaction between the transcription factor STAT1 and the tumor suppressor LHPP is crucial, potentially influencing cancer progression and therapeutic outcomes.

Objective

This study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms and cellular dynamics underlying ESCC, with a focus on the role of transcription factors, particularly STAT1, and its regulatory relationship with LHPP, in the pathogenesis of ESCC.

Methods

Utilizing single-cell transcriptomics data sourced from the public database GEO (GSE160269), we identified major cell types and their transcriptomic changes in ESCC patients. Differential gene expression profiles were examined to understand the dynamics of the tumor microenvironment (TME). A cohort of 21 ESCC patients was recruited to validate the findings. Furthermore, in ESCC cell lines, we validated the transcriptional regulatory relationship between STAT1 and LHPP.

Results

Our analysis identified six major cell types within the ESCC microenvironment, revealing significant changes in cellular composition and gene expression profiles associated with tumorigenesis. Notably, a novel association between STAT1's regulatory role over LHPP was observed, suggesting a complex regulatory loop in ESCC pathogenesis. Elevated STAT1 and reduced LHPP expression were confirmed in patient samples with STAT1 negatively regulates LHPP expression at the promoter level; when the promoter binding motif regions were mutated, the transcriptional repression ability on LHPP was weakened.

Conclusion

The study highlights STAT1 as a core regulator in ESCC, directly influencing LHPP expression. The findings offer novel insights into the molecular mechanisms driving ESCC, shedding light on the cellular alterations and gene regulation dynamics within the ESCC microenvironment. This research provides a foundation for developing targeted therapeutic strategies, potentially utilizing the STAT1-LHPP axis as a focal point in ESCC treatment and prognosis.
Investigating Nonadherence in an Integrated Diabetic Limb Salvage Programme: Reasons, Associated Factors, and Impacts on Care Outcomes
Authors: Ge Lixia , Ang Yee Gary , Molina Joseph , Sun Yan , Tan Elaine , Liew Huiling , Hoe Jeremy , Hui Xian Lin Jaime , Koo Hui Yan , Low Kai Qiang , Choo Julia , Yap Theophilus , Bte Azmi Nur Aberleen Syafirah , Tan Donna , Loh Yi Bing , Zhu Xiaoli , Yong Enming , Hong Qiantai , Chew Tiffany , Chan Dexter Yak Seng , Shi Claris , Law Chelsea , Hoi Wai Han , Siow James , Lim Jo Ann , Abisheganaden John Arputhan , Chew Daniel , Lo Zhiwen Joseph
Published: November 2024

Adherence to treatment plans is crucial for patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) to achieve positive outcomes. With limited understanding of nonadherence and its impacts on care outcomes, this study aimed to explore the reasons and factors associated with nonadherence in an integrated diabetic limb salvage (DLS) programme and evaluate its effects on care outcomes. This study included 2798 DFU patients who were enrolled in an integrated DLS programme across multiple institutions in central and northern Singapore from 2020 to 2021. Reasons for nonadherence were obtained via telephone interviews. Factors associated with nonadherence were identified using multiple logistic regression. Differences in one-year outcomes, including minor and major lower extremity amputation (LEA), mortality, LEA-free survival, and healthcare utilisation between adherent and nonadherent patients, were examined based on a significance level of P < .05. Nonadherence was observed in 40.2% of patients, with higher rates among younger patients, Malays and Indians, and those with higher HbA1c levels. Patient-related factors were the most commonly reported reasons for missed appointments (50.4%). Compared to adherent patients, nonadherent patients exhibited a relatively higher minor LEA rate (13.0% vs 10.2%, OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 0.93, 1.51), lower mortality rate (8.6% vs18.1%, OR = 0.50, 95% CI: 0.39, 0.65), higher overall LEA-free survival (76.4% vs 71.1%, OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.53), and more hospitalisations (IRR = 1.22, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.33) and emergency visits (IRR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.16, 1.39). While nonadherent patients showed relatively higher minor LEA rates and more healthcare utilisation, they also exhibited lower mortality and higher LEA-free survival. This suggests that nonadherence in this population may be associated with complex patient characteristics and behaviours that warrant further investigation to tailor interventions effectively.
Valproate—is withdrawal worth it?
Authors: Becker Danielle A.
Published: November 2024

[Box: see text]
The ‘DIMPLE SIGN’ of Intra-Aortic Cord
Authors: Puppala Sapna , Tingirides Costa , Forsyth James
Published: November 2024

Background

With increasing use of imaging to diagnose human pathology, newer aortic anomalies are being identified. An intra-aortic cord is one such abnormality, which requires differentiating from an intimal flap of dissection, to avoid major surgery or prolonged surveillance. The aim of this study was to bring forth a unique feature of the intra-aortic cord on imaging, using volume rendering reformatting and identify similar findings in published literature and hence establish the role of the ‘Dimple’ sign.

Methods

Review of both our institutional imaging (2 cases) as well as the published literature (6 cases), to identify presence of a diagnostic sign that is seen on volume rendered imaging of aorta.

Results

The ‘Dimple sign’ is unique to the intra-aortic cord and is noted on the images of 4 out of 6 prior publications. Two publications did not use volume rendering. Including our cases, the Dimple’ sign is seen in 6 out of 8 cases. The Dimple sign arises due to tethering of the cord to the aortic wall leading to umbilication of the aortic wall inwards.

Conclusions

The Dimple sign can be very easily noted on volume and/or cinematic rendering and is a useful sign to diagnose an intra-aortic cord and help differentiate it from an intimal flap.
A Mixed-Methods Quality Analysis of Behavior Intervention Plans for Students With Extensive Support Needs
Authors: Zagona Alison L. , Kurth Jennifer A. , Walker Virginia L. , Ruppar Andrea , Loman Sheldon , Bubash Sarah
Published: November 2024

Students with extensive support needs are at risk of demonstrating challenging behavior due to inadequate support of their individual needs or class-wide factors such as low quality of instruction. Students with extensive support needs are also among the students who are most likely to experience aversive interventions and be placed in segregated educational placements. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to investigate behavior intervention plans (BIPs) written for students with extensive support needs to understand their structural features and technical adequacy, trends across components of plans, and the alignment of the BIP with the student’s individualized education program (IEP). We analyzed BIPs that were developed by IEP teams including a teacher candidate enrolled in a master’s program, a mentor teacher, or a colleague. We found BIPs were of low technical adequacy with patterns of errors reflecting harmful assumptions about students, lack of operational definitions, and intervention procedures that were not aligned with other components of the plan. BIPs and IEPs were not well-aligned, a finding that reflected overall poor planning for students with extensive support needs. Implications for research and practice are presented with a focus on the critically important nature of effective behavior supports for students with extensive support needs.
Salidroside Pre-Treatment Inhibits Hypertensive Renal Injury and Fibrosis Through Inhibiting Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Zhu Jie , Li Liang , Luan Yuting , Zhang Ziqing , Wang Yi , Xu Zhenyu
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the protective effects and underlying mechanisms of salidroside (SAL) in angiotensin II (Ang II)-induced hypertensive renal injury and fibrosis, using in vivo and in vitro models.

Methods

In this study, we generated Ang II-induced hypertensive renal injury and fibrosis in mice and the recombinant interferon-gamma (IFN-γ)-stimulated murine podocyte clone 5 (MPC5) model in vitro. Histological and oxidative stress analyses were performed to evaluate the renal injury.

Results

SAL pre-treatment reduced systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and attenuated serum creatinine (Scr), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum cystatin C (Cys-C) levels in Ang II-infused mice (all, P < 0.001). SAL reduced renal fibrosis and related molecules expression, including Collagen I, Collagen III, and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) (all, P < 0.001). SAL decreased the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) while increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in Ang II-treated mice (all, P < 0.001). In addition, SAL pre-treatment inhibited AT1R, Wnt1, Wnt3a, and β-catenin expressions (all, P < 0.001), both in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

Our experimental data demonstrate that SAL pre-treatment protects against Ang II-induced hypertensive renal injury and fibrosis by suppressing the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in vivo and in vitro.
Selecting Approaches for Discourse Analysis: Thoughts on Nursing Research
Authors: Ong Su Han , Beaumont Madelaine , Caine Vera , Slemon Allie
Published: November 2024

Discourse analysis is a commonly used research methodology in the social and human sciences. In this paper, we highlight two different approaches to discourse analysis and discuss critical elements of each approach. As researchers new to discourse analysis, two Masters of Nursing students reflect on the process of making careful choices when deciding on using an approach developed by Fairclough or Foucault. The decision making must consider the substantive focus, methodological knowledge, and positionality and interest of the researcher. We illustrate key components of the two different discourse analysis approaches, the decision making involved in selecting a particular approach, and the shortcomings and limitations that each approach holds in relation to a particular research focus.
The use of lifting straps during snatch alters muscle activation patterns
Authors: Lemus Sergio A. , Volz Mallory , Chen Cheng-Bang , Mann Bryan J. , Travascio Francesco
Published: November 2024

The snatch is prevalent in competitive and recreational lifting as well as strength training. Lifting straps (LS) are an accessory that wrap around the hand and the barbell, reducing the limitations of grip strength. However, this benefit has not been quantitatively supported for the snatch. The aim of this study was to compare muscle activation patterns between using LS and not using them at 80% of the snatch one-repetition maximum in a group of twelve sub-elite male weightlifters. It was hypothesized that LS would decrease forearm muscle activation and increase larger muscle group activation. Eight dominant-side muscles located in the lower limbs, back, shoulders, and upper limbs were measured via electromyography. A two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by a Tukey Pairwise comparison, revealed that LS significantly impacted (p = 0.039) muscle activation in the snatch. Specifically, latissimus dorsi activation increased the most (17.2 ± 55.7%), while biceps brachii activation decreased the most (−8.0 ± 37.0%). Comparing muscle activation across different phases of the lift showed that LS decreased forearm and bicep brachii activation by 16.0 ± 25.2% and 7.1 ± 35.7% respectively during the pull phase, and increased vastus lateralis, latissimus dorsi, and medial deltoid activation between the second part of the first pull and the catching position, with a corrected effect size exceeding 1.5. These results support the hypothesis that LS decrease forearm activation, which could reduce grip strength limitations and consequently, reduce problems associated with fatigue. Increases in vastus lateralis activation with the use of LS suggest a greater training stimulus during the snatch, which can help develop leg strength.
Changes in diagnostics and treatment pathways for developmental dysplasia of the hip after the introduction of national guidelines: An updated questionnaire amongst paediatric orthopaedic surgeons in The Netherlands
Authors: Mai Mohamed , Witbreuk Melinda MEH , de Witte Pieter Bas , van Bergen Christiaan JA
Published: November 2024

Purpose:

Diagnostics and treatment pathways for developmental dysplasia of the hip are highly variable in clinical practice. Recently, two national guidelines were developed in the Netherlands, providing a uniform protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip in children under the age of 1 year. The aim of this survey study was to assess whether diagnostic and treatment strategies have changed amongst paediatric orthopaedic surgeons in the Netherlands compared to a similar survey study in 2011, after the introduction of the guidelines.

Methods:

A web-based online questionnaire was developed and shared amongst the members of the Dutch Paediatric Orthopaedic Society. The questions concerned the diagnosis and treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip, ranging from mildly dysplastic to dislocated hips, in children under the age of 1 year. We used a questionnaire similar to the previous study and evaluated the results.

Results:

Thirty-four participants completed the survey. Regarding diagnosis and follow-up, ultrasonography was generally applied for children younger than 6 months, while radiography was more frequently used for children aged 6–12 months. In 2011, radiography was more widely applied in all age groups. Initial treatment for dysplastic, stable hips was mostly active monitoring, while this was generally a rigid splint in 2011. For dislocated unstable hips, the first step in treatment was generally the Pavlik harness, as in 2011.

Conclusion:

The diagnostic and treatment pathways of developmental dysplasia of the hip in children under the age of 1 year seem to have partially changed amongst Dutch paediatric orthopaedic surgeons compared to 2011, after the publication of new guidelines.
A mixed-methods examination of the acceptability of, CareMOBI, a dementia-focused mhealth app, among primary care providers
Authors: Ali Zuha , Zhong Jie , Sadarangani Tina R
Published: November 2024

Background

CareMOBI (mhealth for Organization to Bolster Interconnectedness) is a user-centered mobile application that supports secure communication between adult day health centers, primary care providers, and family caregivers. The aim of this study was to examine the acceptability of CareMOBI in the primary care setting and identify factors contributing to the likelihood of adoption among primary care providers.

Methods

We used a mixed-methods concurrent triangulation design. We, first, collected quantitative data using the Technology Acceptance Model questionnaire. Follow-up interview questions allowed participants to elaborate on their experience interacting with CareMOBI. We developed an informational matrix based on major themes within the Technology Acceptance Model (ease of use, value in clinical care, fit within existing workflows, and likelihood of adoption) in which qualitative data were embedded and compared.

Results

Our sample included 10 primary care providers. Participants rated CareMOBI high in ease of use ( M = 6.71 out of 7), value in clinical care ( M = 6.79), and likelihood of adoption ( M = 6.71). They found specific functions of CareMOBI helpful, including the summary of health progress and the patient profile. In contrast, participants reported the lowest score for the fit of CareMOBI within existing workflows ( M = 5.52). Qualitative feedback attributed this score to concerns over the lack of interoperability between CareMOBI in its current form and electronic health record systems used in the primary care setting.

Conclusion

Providers found CareMOBI valuable and easy to use, and there was a high likelihood of eventual adoption. However, apprehensions regarding workflow and electronic health records integration arose, which the team will have to consider as they move forward to the next phase of the application's development.
Contact nurses’ perceptions of their services, organizational prerequisites and moral stress: A cross-sectional study in Swedish cancer care
Authors: Brynskog Ellen , Larsson Maria , Smith Frida , Rosell Linn , Bjuresäter Kaisa
Published: November 2024

Contact nursing services have been implemented in Swedish cancer care to increase healthcare quality. Too little is known about the content and quality of these services and the organizational prerequisites provided to contact nurses. The aim of this study was to explore contact nurses’ perceptions of their services and organizational prerequisites, as well as the connection between organizational prerequisites and moral stress. A cross-sectional survey was utilized consisting of a study-specific questionnaire and a select part of the Stress of Conscience Questionnaire. The study is reported in accordance with STROBE guidelines for cross-sectional studies. The results showed that contact nursing service content varied across settings and that 84% of contact nurses have what was categorized as satisfactory or moderately satisfactory self-reported organizational prerequisites. Perceived moral stress differed between contact nurses depending on organizational prerequisites. The variability of both services and prerequisites can be described as inequities in care and complicates evaluation and comparison.
Neighbourhood-based participatory action research with older adults: Facilitating participation through virtual and remote methods
Authors: Hand Carri , Keber Andrea , McFarland Jami , McGrath Colleen , Laliberte Rudman Debbie , Seale Lewis , Gilliland Jason , Little Shirley
Published: November 2024

Participatory action research (PAR) is an effective means of collaborating with older adults to support community change. Limited PAR literature exists in which older adults catalyse social change within neighbourhoods, particularly using virtual methods. In this paper, we discuss a virtual PAR process with older adults that occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the results of inquiry into our application of PAR principles. We conducted PAR in a collective involving university researchers, older adult residents and community partners in an urban core neighbourhood in a mid-sized Canadian city and focused on enhancing daily life for older adults. The PAR project emerged through reflection on previous ethnographic findings regarding older adults’ daily life in neighbourhoods. Our PAR collective collaboratively identified a need among older adults for more accessible information about community resources. To support older adults’ participation and access to community information, the PAR collective created and distributed a free neighbourhood resource booklet, in print and digital formats, to promote equitable access. We evaluated the impact of the booklet through a survey and discussions with community partners. During our PAR process we found challenges and solutions related to using technology, engaging in discussion during virtual meetings, and making collaborative decisions. A combination of in-person, remote and online interactions seemed to facilitate relationship development amongst co-researchers and completion of the project. Future PAR projects would benefit from incorporating in-person, remote and online methods from the outset, as well as ways to support older adults in using and accessing technology. We further noted the value of a local resource booklet, in print and digital formats, in promoting neighbourhood information sharing.
Biometric Changes Up to 2 Years After Hip Arthroscopy in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Athletes
Authors: Steiner Quinn , Walczak Brian E. , Sanfilippo Jennifer , Joachim Mikel R. , Haraldsdottir Kristin , Watson Andrew M.
Published: November 2024

Background:

Patients who undergo hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) require lower extremity immobilization for an extended period of time. Periods of immobilization combined with surgery have been associated with decreased muscle mass and bone mineral density (BMD).

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to characterize postoperative body composition and BMD changes after arthroscopy for FAI. It was hypothesized that both lean mass and BMD would decrease postoperatively and then normalize over time.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This was a retrospective review of 23 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I athletes who underwent hip arthroscopy between 2017 and 2019 and had a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, or 24 months postoperatively. Linear mixed-effects models were used to compare pre- with postoperative lean and fat mass values for the total body and total leg (both operative and nonoperative sides) as well as trunk, pelvic, and spinal BMD. For total-leg, femur, and femoral BMD, linear mixed-effects models were used to evaluate the influence of time, side (operative vs nonoperative), and their interaction on each outcome measure.

Results:

Regarding pelvic BMD, compared with baseline (mean, 1.41 g/cm2 [95% CI, 1.33-1.49]), significant decreases were seen at postoperative 3 months (mean, 1.36 g/cm2 [95% CI, 1.28-1.45 g/cm2]; P < .001) and 6 months (mean, 1.39 g/cm2 [95% CI, 1.27-1.52 g/cm2]; P < .01) but not at 12 months (mean, 1.42 g/cm2 [95% CI, 1.33-1.51 g/cm2]; P = .319). Total-leg BMD for the operative side increased significantly from baseline (mean, 1.52 g/cm2 [95% CI, 1.43-1.61 g/cm2]) to ≥2 years postoperatively (mean, 1.56 g/cm2 [95% CI, 1.47-1.65 g/cm2]) ( P = .005). Combined leg fat mass was increased from baseline (mean, 6427 g [95% CI, 4855-7999 g]) to ≥2 years (mean, 11645 g [95% CI, 7845-15,446 g]) ( P < .01). There were no significant differences in total-body fat or lean mass or combined-leg lean mass.

Conclusion:

In this patient population, a postoperative decrease in pelvic BMD that resolved by 12 months and an increase in total-leg BMD on the operative side at ≥2 years were observed. While hip arthroscopy for FAI may have significant benefits for long-term body composition and bone mass, clinicians should be aware of the potential implications of decreased bone mass for up to 12 months postoperatively.
An Adaptive Leaky-Integrate and Firing Probability Model of an Electrically Stimulated Auditory Nerve Fiber
Authors: Felsheim Rebecca C. , Dietz Mathias
Published: November 2024

Most neural models produce a spiking output and often represent the stochastic nature of the spike generation process via a stochastic output. Nonspiking neural models, on the other hand, predict the probability of a spike occurring in response to a stimulus. We propose a nonspiking model for an electrically stimulated auditory nerve fiber, which not only predicts the total probability of a spike occurring in response to a biphasic pulse but also the distribution of the spike time. Our adaptive leaky-integrate and firing probability (aLIFP) model can account for refractoriness, facilitation, accommodation, and long-term adaptation. All model parameters have been fitted to single cell recordings from electrically stimulated cat auditory nerve fibers. Afterward, the model was validated on recordings from auditory nerve fibers from cats and guinea pigs. The nonspiking nature of the model makes it fast and deterministic while still accounting for the stochastic nature of the spike generation process. Therefore, the relationship between the input to the model or model parameters and the model's output can be observed more directly than with stochastically spiking models.
The Effect of Levels of Leisure-Time Physical Activity on Cognitive Functions Among Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Kim Jaehyun , Lee JungJoo , Kim Junhyoung , Woo Bomi
Published: November 2024

One dementia prevention strategy that is effective for older adults is frequent participation in leisure time physical activity. However, research gaps exist in our understanding of the longitudinal relationship between different levels of leisure time physical activity participation and the cognitive function of older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Thus, we investigated this relationship using Health and Retirement Study data from 2012 to 2020. Results from Repeated Measures Multivariate Analysis of Covariance indicated that both the mid (Mean Difference = −0.45) and high level (Mean Difference = −0.82) leisure time physical activity groups showed higher levels of memory function compared to the low-level leisure time physical activity group. Additionally, the mid (Mean Difference = −0.21) and high level (Mean Difference = −0.37) leisure time physical activity groups reported better working memory function, and the mid (Mean Difference = −0.02) and high level (Mean Difference = −0.02) leisure time physical activity groups showed higher levels of attention and processing speed than the low-level leisure time physical activity group. These findings suggest that older adults with mild cognitive impairment who engage either vigorously or moderately in leisure time physical activity (more than three times a week) experience improvements in cognitive function compared to those who do not. This study provides valuable insights for clinicians on the optimal level of leisure time physical activity required to mitigate cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Clinical Practice Competence and Its Associated Factors Among Generic Nursing Students Learning at Public Universities: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ahmedin Lencho , Birhanu Adamu , Mekuria Mulugeta , Ahmed Nesredin , Yassin Aminu Mohammed , Keneni Mulualem , Wondimneh Fenta , Tesi Seid , Legesse Henok
Published: November 2024

Introduction

One of the global strategic direction and policy priorities in 2021 through 2025 is preservice education of nurses. Even though, quality education is the foundation to produce competent health workers, ensuring the competence of the health professionals is as imperative as maximizing their number. This study aims to fill the literature gap among nursing students in public universities.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of clinical practice competence and its associated factors among graduating BSc nursing students in public universities from July 15 to August 15, 2022.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out in randomly selected public universities in eastern Ethiopia. A total of 143 students were systematically selected to fill out the questionnaire through multistage sampling. Frequency, mean, and standard deviations of independent variables and proportion of clinical practice competence were analyzed using descriptive statistics. AOR with a p-value of <.05 was used to declare a significant association.

Results

The study found that 69 (53.1%) of study participants were clinically competent. Students with good clinical instructors [AOR: 3.79, 95%CI: 1.56–9.21], learning in a conducive clinical setting [AOR: 3.59, 95%CI: 1.26–10.23] and assessed using measurable methods [AOR: 3.77, 95%CI: 1.53–9.30] were significantly associated.

Conclusion

In this study, almost one in two of the students was clinically incompetent. Respective stakeholders could enhance students’ competence by monitoring and evaluating students during clinical practice, creating favorable learning settings, and developing comprehensive assessment methods.
Coal seam penetration enhancement technology integrating hydraulic fracturing fracture development theory
Authors: Lu Shaoshuai , Jia Nan
Published: November 2024

The development process of fractures in coal beds is influenced by many factors, and its development mechanism is complicated and difficult to be predicted accurately. The research addresses the problem of penetration enhancement technology in the process of coal bed methane mining, and designs a method that incorporates the theory of hydraulic fracturing fracture development. In the process, the coal seam structure was studied, the coal rock was cracked using water injection, the fracture development process during hydraulic fracturing was analysed, the numerical simulation model was constructed using the expanded finite element method, and the fluid flow process in the unit was designed. The experimental results show that when the research method is tested for the time-consuming generation of numerical simulation results, the maximum time-consuming generation of is only 92 ms when the fracture length is 10 m, which is shorter than that of other methods; when analysing the results of fracture initiation pressure calculations, the error between the calculation results generated by the research method and the actual measured results in a total of 14 sample points of the two mines is maintained at less than 0.5 MPa; in the analysis of the relationship between the fluid flow rate and the fluid flow rate, the error is kept at less than 0.5 MPa in the case of fluid flow rate exceeding 0.5 ms; the fracture length and the longest fracture radius decreased significantly with the increase of the injection flow rate after the injection flow rate exceeded 0.005 m3/s. It shows that the research method can effectively carry out coal seam penetration enhancement with good computational efficiency and higher accuracy.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction With Concomitant Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy
Authors: Garcia Jose Rafael , Allende Felicitas , Pallone Lucas , Yanke Adam B. , Chahla Jorge
Published: November 2024

Background:

Patellar instability, often associated with medial patellofemoral ligament rupture, is prevalent in adolescents. Risk factors include trochlear dysplasia, patella alta, abnormal patellar tilt, and increased tibial tubercle to trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance.

Indication:

A variety of surgical options are available for addressing patellar instability, and the selection of each technique should be tailored to the unique pathoanatomy of each patient. Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) is indicated for patients with patellar instability, and tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is indicated for patients with a TT-TG >20 mm.

Technique Description:

An anterior midline incision is performed to expose the patella, patellar tendon, and tibial tubercle. Diagnostic arthroscopy is performed to assess patellar engagement and cartilage integrity, followed by the TTO. Three guidewires are placed with 15° of obliquity, to guide a 6-cm osteotomy, from medial to lateral and from proximal to distal. A distal cortical hinge must be left intact. A 15-mm medial resection of the tibial tubercle is performed to avoid protrusion against the skin, which is followed by medialization of the tubercle and fixation with K-wires until dynamic testing ensures proper alignment and definitive fixation is achieved with cannulated headless screws. A lateral retinacular lengthening is performed to balance patellar forces. MPFLR is executed using a semitendinosus allograft. The graft is anchored to the patella and drawn through a surgically created plane to the medial femoral condyle. The femoral tunnel is created under fluoroscopy guidance, and the graft is then passed and secured. Graft tension and patellar mobility are adjusted according to dynamic testing. Once patellar stability is achieved and maintained through range of motion, the graft is then fixed.

Results:

Patients can expect improved clinical outcomes with a high return-to-sports rate following both isolated MPFLR and concomitant TTO. The combination of MPFLR + TTO significantly reduces revision rate, compared to isolated MPFLR in patients with increased TT-TG distance, and enhances postoperative patellofemoral tracking.

Discussion/Conclusions:

MPFLR + TTO improves patellofemoral tracking and corrects patellar instability, substantially improving postoperative outcomes compared to MPFLR alone. Patients with patellar instability and an increased TT-TG may be effectively treated with MPFLR + TTO.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Increased levels of versican and insulin-like growth factor 1 in peritumoral mammary adipose tissue are related to aggressiveness in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer
Authors: Mirra Paola , Parascandolo Alessia , Marino Graziella , D’Alterio Federica , Zinna Lorenza , Desiderio Antonella , Patitucci Giuseppe , Vita Giulia Anna Carmen , Condelli Valentina , Russi Sabino , D’Andrea Francesco , Beguinot Francesco , Miele Claudia , Formisano Pietro , D’Esposito Vittoria
Published: November 2024

The adipose tissue (AT) surrounding breast cancer (BC) plays a pivotal role in cancer progression and represents an optimal source for new biomarker discovery. The aim of this work was to investigate whether specific AT factors may have prognostic value in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) BC. Proteoglycan Versican (VCAN), Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF1), Reticulon 4B (RTN4), chemokines CCL5 (also known as RANTES) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) are expressed in AT and may play important roles in BC progression. Peritumoral AT and tumoral biopsies were obtained from patients with ER+ BC (N = 23). AT specimens were collected also from healthy women (N = 17; CTRL-AT). The analysis of gene expression by qPCR revealed significantly higher mRNA levels of VCAN, IGF1, RTN4, and CCL5 in BC-AT compared to the CTRL-AT, and no difference in IL-8 mRNA levels. VCAN positively correlated with patient Body Mass Index (BMI) in BC-AT, while not in CTRL-AT. Moreover, VCAN and IGF1 positively correlated with RTN4 and negatively with CCL5. Interestingly, VCAN correlated with tumoral Ki67, while IGF1 with tumoral OCT4 that, in turn, correlated with tumoral Ki67 and patient BMI. Thus, peritumoral AT content of VCAN, and IGF1 are related to BC proliferation and aggressiveness.