bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: a scoping review of causes, mechanisms, diagnosis, and intervention strategies
Authors: Rotaru-Zavaleanu Alexandra-Daniela , Lungulescu Cristian Virgil , Bunescu Marius Gabriel , Vasile Ramona Constantina , Gheorman Victor , Gresita Andrei , Dinescu Venera Cristina
Published: May 2024

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) has traditionally been viewed as a specialized medical condition. However, its escalating prevalence among professionals across a multitude of industries has sparked substantial interest in recent years. This review aims to delve into CTS as an occupational disease, focusing on its epidemiological patterns, risk factors, symptoms, and management options, particularly emphasizing its relevance in professional environments. The complex interaction of anatomical, biomechanical, and pathophysiological factors that contribute to the development of CTS in different work settings underlines the critical role of ergonomic measures, prompt clinical identification, and tailored treatment plans in reducing its effects. Nevertheless, the challenges presented by existing research, including diverse methodologies and definitions, highlight the need for more unified protocols to thoroughly understand and tackle this issue. There’s a pressing demand for more in-depth research into the epidemiology of CTS, its injury mechanisms, and the potential role of targeted medicine. Moreover, recognizing CTS’s wider ramifications beyond personal health is essential. The economic burden associated with CTS-related healthcare costs, productivity losses, and compensation claims can significantly impact both businesses and the broader society. Therefore, initiatives aimed at preventing CTS through workplace interventions, education, and early intervention programs not only benefit the affected individuals but also contribute to the overall well-being of the workforce and economic productivity. By fostering a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals, employers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, we can strive towards creating safer and healthier work environments while effectively managing the challenges posed by CTS in occupational settings.
Lights and shadows on local recurrence after renal surgery: when, why and how to manage
Authors: Di Gianfrancesco Luca , Crestani Alessandro , Amodeo Antonio , Corsi Paolo , De Marchi Davide , Miglioranza Eugenio , Lista Giuliana , Vitelli Ferdinando Daniele , Simonetti Francesca , Busetto Gian Maria , Falagario Ugo Giovanni , Maggi Martina , Marino Filippo , Genovese Giannicola , Falabella Roberto , Porreca Angelo
Published: May 2024

Introduction

This review aims to analyze the existing literature on local recurrence (LR) in patients undergoing partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal cell carcinoma, identifying relative risk factors, and exploring optimal clinical management strategies.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across bibliographic databases, primarily focusing on LR rates. Secondary outcomes included evaluation of positive surgical margins (PSM), nephrometry scores, pathological stage (T and grading), perioperative outcomes, time-to-LR, overall survival, and cancer-specific survival.

Results

Due to the heterogeneity, a narrative synthesis was performed. LR rates after PN varied in the literature; with PSM emerging as a significant risk factor. Other LR risk factors included pathological stage, nephrometry scores, and histological variants. However, evidence regarding optimal LR management in the absence of precise indications was lacking.

Conclusion

LR represents a significant clinical challenge; requiring multidisciplinary assessment and shared decision-making with patients. Given well-established risk factors, clinicians must tailor management strategies to optimize patient outcomes.
Students’ perspectives on racism and anti-racism in physical education: a systematic review
Authors: Abel Lucas , Galle Annette Chidinma , Ziehmann Laszlo , Vogt Tobias
Published: May 2024

Sports, with their various social manifestations, exhibit racist structures and incidents. Physical education (PE) has the potential to serve as an environment to combat racism, but it can also perpetuate and (re)produce racist attitudes and behaviors. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review of national (German) and international literature concerning racism and anti-racism within the context of PE specifically from a students’ perspective. The research methodology followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standard and encompassed a four-step process: (1) searching 11 electronic databases using 70 keyword combinations in both German and English; (2) selecting studies based on five predetermined inclusion criteria; (3) evaluating the quality of selected studies using established appraisal tools; and (4) conducting descriptive and template analyses. Of 5,213 publications, 16 met the inclusion criteria, demonstrating diverse theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches. Five themes were constructed: “How racism is understood” (1); “What students experience,” encompassing discriminatory incidents in PE, sports, and daily life classified as racial stereotypes, prejudices, and everyday racism (2); and “What physical education teachers (3)/Institutions (4)/researchers (5) can and should do.” These themes provided recommendations for teachers, institutions, and researchers, including training and curriculum reforms. While valuable international literature was identified, no German PE specific publications were found emphasizing the necessity of a local (German) survey to comprehend students’ experiences, knowledge, and potential for anti-racism efforts. Such insights are crucial for shaping teacher-related training programs and policy demands in an informed and targeted manner.
Comparison of goalscoring patterns between the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups
Authors: Degrenne Olivier , Carling Christopher
Published: May 2024

The main aim of this study was to compare goal scoring patterns between the two most recent FIFA World CupTM (WC) tournaments: Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. Match performance data were extracted using the ProVision database (StatsPerform, Chicago, USA). Variables used to analyse goals (not including penalty shootout goals) included the match period in which these were scored, the type of action and different types of play, body part used, defensive pressure, possession duration and expected goals (xG) values. A Chi-square test was used to compare qualitative variables across competitions while quantitative variables were compared using a nonparametric Mann–Whitney U-test for independent samples. Altogether, 169 goals were scored in WC 2018 vs. 172 goals in WC 2022. No differences occurred across competitions for the period in which goals were scored. In both tournaments the majority was scored in the second-half and towards the end of play. Significant differences were observed for the type of action, type of play and body part used prior to scoring a goal (p < .05). These differences can be explained by the record number of own goals and goals scored from set-pieces in 2018 and an increase in goals scored from open-play (from positional attacks notably) in 2022. Analysis of open-play situations showed that teams recorded a higher xG value and converted more of their chances (xG = 122.8 vs. 128 goals, xG difference = +5.2) in 2022 thus were more efficient compared with 2018. In sum, goal scoring patterns largely differed between the two most recent World Cup tournaments.
Exploring the scope and applications of anti-doping measures in ultramarathon: an analysis of the positions of ultramarathon race organizers
Authors: Colangelo Jill , Smith Alexander , Hachen Stefanie , Liebrenz Michael
Published: May 2024

Introduction

With ultramarathon attracting burgeoning interest, evidence has emerged about doping behaviors. However, currently, research into the anti-doping policy landscape and the adoption of testing and athlete surveillance is limited, including the applicability of rubric from the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and National Anti-Doping Organizations (NADOs). Consequently, it remains unclear if anti-doping provisions have been developed and enforced in ultramarathon, which is a timely consideration given growth in the sport.

Methods

This study gathered perspectives on anti-doping and testing procedures from ultramarathon race organizers (UMROs). To that end, a sample of n = 35 prominent competitions was compiled using web materials and community engagement, encompassing elite and amateur entrants, diverse course designs, and prize money opportunities. Data-gathering was conducted across two phases between November and December 2023, with an initial review of UMRO web resources. Subsequently, UMROs were contacted via email to validate or ascertain their anti-doping and testing policies. Insights from UMRO respondents were reviewed and coded. UMROs who did not reply were excluded from the analysis.

Results

Based on this methodology, the positions of n = 17 UMROs were captured, covering 159 ultramarathon races and approximately 96,500 annual participants. Of these, n = 8 UMROs did not have a self-developed policy and their rubric was pursuant to external authorities like WADA and NADOs. n = 4 had created a specific proprietary policy, which often incorporated WADO or NADO materials. The remaining n = 5 UMROs reported no anti-doping controls were in place at the time of the study. There was also notable heterogeneity in testing and surveillance, ranging from rigorous procedures to an absence of protocols. Interestingly, none of the included UMROs explicitly reported that they had enacted anti-doping measures against athletes.

Discussion

Various determinants could inform these regulatory inconsistencies across UMROs, such as financial constraints, infrastructural and logistical barriers, cultural factors, and the lack of a unifying international federation in ultramarathon. Given the disparate approaches identified in our results, greater cooperation and education may be necessary to enhance understanding about the implications of doping and advance cohesive frameworks. This should involve collaborations with WADA and NADOs to promote best-practices and evidence-based exchanges within the community.
Sellar hemangiopericytoma masquerading as pituitary adenoma: an overlooked intriguing case study unveiling a rare surgical conundrum
Authors: Ebrahimzadeh Kaveh , Mirahmadi Eraghi Mohammad , Ansari Mohammad , Dmytriw Adam A.
Published: May 2024

Hemangiopericytoma (HPC) constitutes less than 1% of all primary central nervous system tumors. It is a vascular neoplasm with potential malignancy that, in rare instances, manifests as a primary lesion within the brain. Typically, it originates from the meninges. Here, we describe an exceptionally uncommon sellar region solitary fibrous tumor/hemangiopericytoma (SFT/HPC) that mimicked a nonfunctional pituitary adenoma.

Introduction and importance

 

Case presentation

A 54-year-old male was referred to our hospital due to progressive blurred vision in the left eye over the past year. A homogeneous iso-dense extra-axial intrasellar round mass with extension into the suprasellar region, mainly on the left side, along with bony erosion and osteolysis around the sellar region, was observed on a brain computed tomography (CT) scan. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a well-defined 251,713 mm mass with iso-signal on T1-weighted images and hypersignal on T2-weighted images, originating from the pituitary gland within the sella turcica. The mass avidly enhanced following Gadolinium injection and adhered to both carotid arteries without vascular compression or invasion. It extended to the suprasellar cistern and compressed the optic chiasm. The diagnosis was nonfunctional pituitary macroadenoma, leading to the decision for Endoscopic Trans-Sphenoidal Surgery (ETSS). A non-sustainable, soft, grayish mass was grossly and totally resected during the operation. Subsequently, there was a significant improvement in visual acuity during the early postoperative period. Histopathologic examination confirmed hemangiopericytoma (WHO grade II).

Conclusion

Due to its malignant nature, hemangiopericytoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of a sellar mass, both from a clinical and morphological perspective.
An ELISA test using a circulating Mycobacterium bovis peptide for detecting bovine tuberculosis in dairy cattle
Authors: Singhla Tawatchai , Boonyayatra Sukolrat , Sthitmatee Nattawooti , Sirimalaisuwan Anucha , Maicharoen Nitit , Meemey Aratchaporn , Muenthaisong Anucha , Rittipornlertrak Amarin , Sreevatsan Srinand
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to determine the sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Sp) of a circulating pathogen-specific biomarker (polyketide synthetase 5, Pks5)-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) independently or in conjunction with a caudal fold tuberculin (CFT) test for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) screening in dairy cattle. We enrolled 987 dairy cows from 34 herds in Chiang Mai province, Thailand. A conditionally independent Bayesian model with a single population was inferred from the test results. The percentage of positive results for the Pks5-ELISA using 0.4 OD cutoff test and CFT test were 9.0% (89/987) and 10.5% (104/987), respectively. The median of posterior estimates of Se for the Pks5-ELISA test was 90.2% (95% posterior probability interval [PPI] = 76.6–97.4%), while the estimated Sp was slightly higher (median = 92.9, 95% PPI = 91.0–94.5%). The median estimated Se of the CFT test was 85.9% (95% PPI = 72.4–94.6%), while the estimated Sp was higher, with a median of 90.7% (95% PPI = 88.7–92.5%). The posterior estimate for true disease prevalence was 2.4% (95% PPI = 1.2–3.9%). The Pks5-ELISA test yielded characteristics at or above the acceptable standards for bTB detection. Therefore, the pathogen-specific biomarker, Pks5, is a potential detection system for bTB screening and may be applied as an ancillary test together with the currently applied standard method (CFT test) to reinforce the bTB control and eradication programs.
Effect of transportation distance and lairage time on selected behaviors and carcass parameters in zebu cattle—a study using the animal focal sampling method
Authors: Silva Welligton Conceição da , Gouveia Júnior Amauri , Damasceno Neto Manoel Soares , Sousa Luciano Fernandes , Barbosa Antônio Vinícius Correa , Bruno Rebelo da Silva Éder , Santos Maria Roseane Pereira dos , Lourenço-Júnior José de Brito , Camargo Júnior Raimundo Nonato Colares , Silva André Guimarães Maciel E.
Published: May 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the transport distance and lairage time on behavioral indicators of zebu beef cattle in the resting pen of a slaughterhouse using the focal animal technique. Eight lots of male zebu cattle, Nelore, aged approximately 4 years old, weighing on average 500 ± 28.5 kg-1, from different municipalities, transported by land, were evaluated. The lots were grouped into two categories: short distance (> 500 km) and long distance (> 500 km). Five focal animals per evaluated lot were used in each cycle of behavior observation, randomly chosen, and visually identified. The animal focal sampling method was used, with instantaneous recording, every 5 min per animal/h. A video camera was used and placed at a fixed point in the corral. After slaughtering, bruises and carcass pH were evaluated. The respiratory rate (RR) was measured in two moments, 30 min after unloading (RR_I) and 1 h before slaughtering (RR_F); behavioral data were divided into four lairage periods (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th) equally and evaluated as repeated measures over time. The lairage time lowered the behaviors of headbutting (NCHBs), pushing (PsH), mounting (MT), and chasing away (CA), (p = 0.0001), and these behaviors were more evident in animals transported for short distances in the initial resting times, decreasing as they remained in the resting pen. There was effect of distance on the initial and final pH of the carcass, being greater in the short distance (p = 0.047). There was no effect of distance or lairage time on initial or final RR (p > 0.05). In addition, animals transported over long distances showed less carcass injuries, which were observed during post mortem inspection. It is concluded that animals transported over short distances present a greater number of agonistic behaviors, such as NCHBs, MT, PsH, and CA, predisposing to higher rates of bruising during lairage and more accentuated changes in the final pH of the meat.
Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline in the Aging Population: Emerging Perspectives in Audiology
Authors: Nagaraj Naveen K.
Published: May 2024

In this perspective article, the author explores the connections between hearing loss, central auditory processing, and cognitive decline, offering insights into the complex dynamics at play. Drawing upon a range of studies, the relationship between age-related central auditory processing disorders and Alzheimer’s disease is discussed, with the aim of enhancing our understanding of these interconnected conditions. Highlighting the evolving significance of audiologists in the dual management of cognitive health and hearing impairments, the author focuses on their role in identifying early signs of cognitive impairment and evaluates various cognitive screening tools used in this context. The discussion extends to adaptations of hearing assessments for older adults, especially those diagnosed with dementia, and highlights the significance of objective auditory electrophysiological tests. These tests are presented as vital in assessing the influence of aging and Alzheimer’s disease on auditory processing capabilities and to signal cognitive dysfunction. The article underscores the critical role of audiologists in addressing the challenges faced by the aging population. The perspective calls for further research to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in audiology, and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach in tackling the nexus of hearing loss, auditory processing, and cognitive decline.
Does Engine Oil Type Affect Fuel Consumption in Passenger Vehicles? A Two-Year Investigation
Authors: Wolak Artur , Wołosz Michał , Fijorek Kamil , Zając Grzegorz
Published: May 2024

Reducing fuel consumption to decrease CO2 emissions has become a key development factor in the automotive industry. An effective way to decrease fuel consumption is to reduce the influence of various sources of energy loss. One way to increase engine efficiency is to use low-viscosity engine oils to reduce friction losses in the engine’s tribological systems. The aim of the article was to analyze the relationship between the type of engine oil and fuel consumption in a group of 12 passenger cars. This was a homogenous group of identical cars, equipped with the same engine, operated under very similar conditions. Three groups of engine oils (Revline, Total, Orlen) were tested in vehicles and stressed with comparable workloads. The experiment was conducted over two years (two stages of research). The collected results were presented using graphs and compared using statistical tests, split into two stages of research, with four seasonal temperature groups. The study provides a detailed description of fuel consumption differences taking into account variations in ambient temperature. The analyses were focused on finding answers to two research questions: does the type of engine oil affect the variation in combustion levels, and what is the variability of fuel consumption in different seasons due to the ambient temperature variability? Briefly, in both stages of the study, vehicles using Revline oil attained the highest average fuel consumption throughout the study period. Vehicles using Total oil showed similar results to those using Revline oil, with the difference in fuel consumption not as noticeable during warmer months. Conversely, vehicles using Orlen oil demonstrated the lowest fuel consumption values during colder months, but higher levels during warmer months.
Modeling and Control of Ejector-Based Hydrogen Circulation System for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Systems
Authors: Xu Zecheng , Liu Bo , Tong Yuqi , Dong Zuomin , Feng Yanbiao
Published: May 2024

Ejector-based proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are of great interest due to their simplicity and feasibility. Thus, proton exchange membrane fuel cells are considered the most suitable technology for in-vehicle systems, industrial applications, etc. Despite the passive characteristics of the ejector, active control of the hydrogen supply system is needed to ensure sufficient hydrogen, maintain the stack pressure, and ensure effective entrainment. In this research, a novel semi-empirical model is proposed to accurately predict the entrainment performance of the ejector with an 80 kW fuel cell system. According to the precise semi-empirical model, the hydrogen supply system and the anode channel are modeled. Then, a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) is developed to supply sufficient and adequate gas flow and maintain the rapid dynamic response. Compared to the conventional proportional–integral–derivative controller, the fuzzy logic controller could reduce the anode pressure variability by 5% during a stepped case and 2% during a dynamic case.
Smart City and Energy: A Bibliometric Review of the Smart City and Smart Energy Concept from the Perspective of the Bioclimatic Approach
Authors: Boulanger Saveria Olga Murielle
Published: May 2024

Smart Cities have emerged as a promising approach for transforming urban living into more sustainable and resilient systems through technology-driven innovations and data-driven governance. Despite its growing implementation and diffusion around the globe, many questions surrounding this topic have emerged. Many critics have emerged since its first conceptualization in the first decade of the current century. Smart Cities have been criticized for their utopian objectives and the security, safety, people’s freedom, and privacy within these systems. There are also capitalistic and neoliberalism-related critiques. Other critiques also highlight the current climate cost of Smart City initiatives. In the context of those critiques, bioclimatic and passive strategies might provide an interesting evolution of the concept but seem to be left in the background. This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the linkages between environmental design approaches and the Smart City discourse. The contribution will explore to which extent bioclimatic and environmental design principles are present in the Smart City discourse and what the patterns are inside the current literature. The methodology of the research included a quali-quantitative analysis of the body of literature in Scopus and a bibliometric analysis using the VOS Viewer tool.
D3 Receptor-Targeted Cariprazine: Insights from Lab to Bedside
Authors: Barabássy Ágota , Dombi Zsófia Borbála , Németh György
Published: May 2024

Until the late 1800s, drug development was a chance finding based on observations and repeated trials and errors. Today, drug development must go through many iterations and tests to ensure it is safe, potent, and effective. This process is a long and costly endeavor, with many pitfalls and hurdles. The aim of the present review article is to explore what is needed for a molecule to move from the researcher bench to the patients’ bedside, presented from an industry perspective through the development program of cariprazine. Cariprazine is a relatively novel antipsychotic medication, approved for the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar mania, bipolar depression, and major depression as an add-on. It is a D3-preferring D3-D2 partial agonist with the highest binding to the D3 receptors compared to all other antipsychotics. Based on the example of cariprazine, there are several key factors that are needed for a molecule to move from the researcher bench to the patients’ bedside, such as targeting an unmet medical need, having a novel mechanism of action, and a smart implementation of development plans.
Recovery of Ellagic Acid from Pomegranate Peels with the Aid of Ultrasound-Assisted Alkaline Hydrolysis
Authors: Kyriakoudi Anastasia , Kalfa Evmorfia , Zymvrakaki Eleni , Kalogiouri Natasa , Mourtzinos Ioannis
Published: May 2024

The pomegranate processing industry generates worldwide enormous amounts of by-products, such as pomegranate peels (PPs), which constitute a rich source of phenolic compounds. In this view, PPs could be exploited as a sustainable source of ellagic acid, which is a compound that possesses various biological actions. The present study aimed at the liberation of ellagic acid from its bound forms via ultrasound-assisted alkaline hydrolysis, which was optimized using response surface methodology. The effects of duration of sonication, solvent:solid ratio, and NaOH concentration on total phenol content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and punicalagin and ellagic acid content were investigated. Using the optimum hydrolysis conditions (i.e., 32 min, 1:48 v/w, 1.5 mol/L NaOH), the experimental responses were found to be TCP: 4230 ± 190 mg GAE/100 g dry PPs; AABTS: 32,398 ± 1817 µmol Trolox/100 g dry PPs; ACUPRAC: 29,816 ± 1955 µmol Trolox/100 g dry PPs; 59 ± 3 mg punicalagin/100 g dry PPs; and 1457 ± 71 mg ellagic acid/100 g dry PPs. LC-QTOF-MS and GC-MS analysis of the obtained PP extract revealed the presence of various phenolic compounds (e.g., ellagic acid), organic acids (e.g., citric acid), sugars (e.g., fructose) and amino acids (e.g., glycine). The proposed methodology could be of use for food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics applications, thus reinforcing local economies.
Co-Doped Porous Carbon/Carbon Nanotube Heterostructures Derived from ZIF-L@ZIF-67 for Efficient Microwave Absorption
Authors: He Liming , Xu Hongda , Cui Yang , Qi Jian , Wang Xiaolong , Jin Quan
Published: May 2024

Carbon-based magnetic metal composites derived from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials for the preparation of broadband microwave absorbers. In this work, the leaf-like co-doped porous carbon/carbon nanotube heterostructure was obtained using ZIF-L@ZIF-67 as precursor. The number of carbon nanotubes can be controlled by varying the amount of ZIF-67, thus regulating the dielectric constant of the sample. An optimum reflection loss of −42.2 dB is attained when ZIF-67 is added at 2 mmol. An effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 4.8 GHz is achieved with a thickness of 2.2 mm and a filler weight of 12%. The excellent microwave absorption (MA) ability is generated from the mesopore structure, uniform heterogeneous interfaces, and high conduction loss. The work offers useful guidelines to devise and prepare such nanostructured materials for MA materials.
Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensors Composed of Polyaniline Nanofibers with High Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Sobahi Nebras , Alam Md. Mottahir , Imran Mohd , Khan Mohammad Ehtisham , Mohammad Akbar , Yoon Taeho , Mehedi Ibrahim M. , Hussain Mohammad A. , Abdulaal Mohammed J. , Jiman Ahmad A.
Published: May 2024

The measurement of glucose concentration is a fundamental daily care for diabetes patients, and therefore, its detection with accuracy is of prime importance in the field of health care. In this study, the fabrication of an electrochemical sensor for glucose sensing was successfully designed. The electrode material was fabricated using polyaniline and systematically characterized using scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy. The polyaniline nanofiber-modified electrode showed excellent detection ability for glucose with a linear range of 10 μM to 1 mM and a detection limit of 10.6 μM. The stability of the same electrode was tested for 7 days. The electrode shows high sensitivity for glucose detection in the presence of interferences. The polyaniline-modified electrode does not affect the presence of interferences and has a low detection limit. It is also cost-effective and does not require complex sample preparation steps. This makes it a potential tool for glucose detection in pharmacy and medical diagnostics.
IR.WoT: An Architecture and Vision for a Unified Web of Things Search Engine
Authors: Manta-Caro Cristyan , Fernández-Luna Juan M.
Published: May 2024

The revolution of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the Web of Things (WoT) has brought new opportunities and challenges for the information retrieval (IR) field. The exponential number of interconnected physical objects and real-time data acquisition requires new approaches and architectures for IR systems. Research and prototypes can be crucial in designing and developing new systems and refining architectures for IR in the WoT. This paper proposes a unified and holistic approach for IR in the WoT, called IR.WoT. The proposed system contemplates the critical indexing, scoring, and presentation stages applied to some smart cities’ use cases and scenarios. Overall, this paper describes the research, architecture, and vision for advancing the field of IR in the WoT and addresses some of the remaining challenges and opportunities in this exciting area. The article also describes the design considerations, cloud implementation, and experimentation based on a simulated collection of synthetic XML documents with technical efficiency measures. The experimentation results show promising outcomes, whereas further studies are required to improve IR.WoT effectiveness, considering the WoT dynamic characteristics and, more importantly, the heterogeneity and divergence of WoT modeling proposals in the IR domain.
Crossing-Point Estimation in Human–Robot Navigation—Statistical Linearization versus Sigma-Point Transformation
Authors: Palm Rainer , Lilienthal Achim J.
Published: May 2024

Interactions between mobile robots and human operators in common areas require a high level of safety, especially in terms of trajectory planning, obstacle avoidance and mutual cooperation. In this connection, the crossings of planned trajectories and their uncertainty based on model fluctuations, system noise and sensor noise play an outstanding role. This paper discusses the calculation of the expected areas of interactions during human–robot navigation with respect to fuzzy and noisy information. The expected crossing points of the possible trajectories are nonlinearly associated with the positions and orientations of the robots and humans. The nonlinear transformation of a noisy system input, such as the directions of the motion of humans and robots, to a system output, the expected area of intersection of their trajectories, is performed by two methods: statistical linearization and the sigma-point transformation. For both approaches, fuzzy approximations are presented and the inverse problem is discussed where the input distribution parameters are computed from the given output distribution parameters.
Revisiting the Claims of Past Medical Innocence and Good Intentions
Authors: Bastien Charlebois Janik
Published: May 2024

Medical professionals usually reject critiques of deferrable treatments that alter the sex characteristics of infants and children without personal informed consent on the grounds that intersex adults’ experiences reflect ‘obsolete’ practice. However, past practice is also protected from criticism by claiming ‘good intentions’, a commitment to the child’s best interest and context-dictated constraints on medical practice. I first examine foundational literature of the Optimal Gender Policy to verify the presence of statements of interests or motives, I then collect affect displays to identify motives, and I observe attitudes to clitoridectomy. Affect displays point to motives that are relevant in interpretive sociology, as they allow access to cultural or institutional dispositions when justification talk has not been provided. While a statement of interest is absent from the foundational literature, I identify the following affect displays: (1) unease and disgust; (2) attachment to heteronormativity, as well as three kinds of gratification or pleasure rewards; (3) power pleasure; (4) surgical pleasure; (5) and cosmetic pleasure. As surgical action appeases some of these affects and nourish others, previous medical professionals had interests that were their own and not centred on the children. Examination of attitudes to clitoridectomy reveals that clinicians were aware of the (phallo)clitoris’ importance to sexual pleasure but dismissed it, further invalidating claims that past practice was based on children’s best interest.
Exploring the Impact of Urban Road Network Characteristics on City Fringe Tourist Areas: A Case Study of Xi’an, China
Authors: Zhang Hongtao , Li Congying , Fan Jiahao , Yun Kaituo , Wu Jiaxi
Published: May 2024

With the process of urban expansion, the urban road infrastructure gradually develops and improves, and the urban fringe tourism area gradually receives the attention of tourists, meaning there may be a mismatch between the demand and the early transportation planning for the urban fringe tourism area. In order to explore the relationship between urban road network structure characteristics and urban fringe tourist areas, this study chose Kunming Lake in Xi’an City as the research object and obtained the consumer development characteristics of urban fringe tourist areas through a comparison of POI data. We explored the traffic development trend in urban fringe tourist areas based on a spatial syntactic model by quantifying the road network structure characteristics using the indexes related to depth, integration, and choice. The results of the study show that the consumer development level of the urban fringe tourism area is poor compared with that of the built-up scenic area, and tourists tend to travel in the scenic area but do not live in this neighborhood. The average normalized depth values in the axial and segmental maps were 0.52 and 0.42, respectively, indicating that expressways and ring roads can improve the accessibility of urban fringe tourist areas. The expansion of motorized transportation activities gradually increases the importance of urban fringe tourist areas. There is a significant correlation between the road network density and route selection, although the correlation between the two gradually decreases as the measured radius increases. The conclusions drawn from this study provide methodological references and research paradigms for the development of city fringe tourist areas and urban transportation planning.
State of the Art in Adjuvant Therapy in High Risk Melanoma
Authors:   N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Centre of Oncology, Akhmetianova A.E. , Orlova K.V. , Demidov L.V.
Published: May 2024

Adjuvant therapy in cutaneous melanoma is the standard of care in high-risk patients, including stages IIB, IIC, III and IV (after surgical treatment). Adjuvant therapy options are different, including single-agent immunotherapy, combined immunotherapy, targeted therapy in the patient with BRAF mutation. The choice of treatment option depends on many factors, such as the stage of the disease, previous history of the disease, concomitant disease and patient preferences. This review is a comprehensive summary of published research on the basis of which modern adjuvant therapy is based.
Combined Immunotherapy for Metastatic Uveal Melanoma. Single Centre Experience
Authors:   N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Nazarova V.V. ,   Hadassah Medical Moscow,   S.N. Fedorov National Medical Research Center ‘Eye Microsurgery’, Orlova K.V. , Utyashev I.A. , Yarovoy A.A. , Yarovaya V.A. , Markina I.G. , Shubina I.Zh. , Demidov L.V. , Kharkevich G.Yu.
Published: May 2024

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common intraocular tumor. Despite satisfactory results in the treatment of primary uveal melanoma, almost 50% of patients develop a metastatic lesion. Overall one-year survival in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma reaches 13–40%. Different survival rates are due to the clinical and biological features of uveal melanoma and different prognosis. There is still no standard therapy for metastatic uveal melanoma. Despite all the success achieved in the treatment of patients with metastatic skin melanoma, uveal melanoma is characterized by low sensitivity to drug therapy (whether it is modern immunotherapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICTIs) or targeted or chemotherapy). However, despite the lower efficacy of combined immunotherapy in UM compared with the results for patients with skin melanoma, in recent years its positive role has been noted for UM patients, as well. According to various authors, despite the one-year survival rate of 30-50%, to date, the combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab is recognized as the most effective scheme among other ineffective therapy options. The paper presents the authors’ experience of combined immunotherapy in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma (n = 33) who were treated at the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology from 2019 to 2021.
Our Experience, Practical Significance and Perspective of SLNB in the Russian Federation
Authors:   N.N. Petrov National Medical Research Center of Oncology, Ebert М.А. , Zinovyev G.V. , Gafton I.G. , Sinyachkin М.S. , Krzhivitsky P.I. , Gafton G.I. , Chuglova D.A. , Malugin A.Yu.
Published: May 2024

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is a standard component of I and II clinical stage skin melanoma staging. Patients with IIB, IIC, and IIIB stages have similar prognosis, but different tactic. The KEYNOTE-716 study shows a 37,5% reduction in the risk of local recurrence in stage IIB, IIC with adjuvant treatment with pembrolizumab compared with observation. The NCCN recommendations version 2.2023 has already introduced the possibility of SLNB refusing in patients with skin melanoma clinical stage IIB, IIC and prescribing pembrolizumab in the adjuvant treatment. The study included patients over 18 years old with clinical stage IB, IIA, IIB, or IIC skin melanoma – AJCC, 8th edition, 234 males (31%) and 521 females (69%). Metastasis was detected in 17.2% (n = 130). Patients in categories T1a, T1b and T2a were 7.4% (n = 56), 16.5% (n = 125) and 19.6% (n = 148). Metastaticall sentinel lymph node (SLN) was found in 10% of these categories, in 100% it was the only lymph node with metastasis. 585 patients (77.5%) agreed to participate in the survey. All patients are under observation. In 55 (9.4%) cases skin melanoma progression occurred: 27 (4.6%) in the lymph nodes, 8 (1.3%) – satellite and transit metastases, and 20 (3.4%) – distant metastases (lungs – 7, liver – 5, brain – 3, bones, other – 5). A lethal outcome was recorded in 5 cases, the relatives refused to report the cause of death. New information raises the potential issue of de-escalation of surgical treatment and expansion of indications for systemic treatment of patients with clinical stage IB, IIB, IIC skin melanoma
Exploring Social Media Metrics: A Comprehensive Literature Review on Assessing Post-Digitalisation Outcomes in Companies from a People-Centric Perspective
Authors: Nwaiwu Fortune , Newnes Linda , Lattanzio Susan
Published: May 2024

Assessment of post-digitalisation outcomes in companies remains a pressing concern for stakeholders in industry, and metrics from social media engagements could offer valuable insights that may be beneficial from a people-centric perspective. Yet, there remains a significant lack of comprehensive exploration of these metrics. This review evaluates the state of the art of academic literature on the subject of social media engagement as evaluative indicators of the outcome of digitalisation in companies. Drawing from a people-centric perspective, a qualitative methodological approach examined peer-reviewed articles selected for the literature review. Results underscore the nuanced interplay between social media engagement metrics and post-digitalisation outcomes and offers valuable theoretical and practical insights beneficial to stakeholders both in industry and the academia. The study concludes by advocating for a deeper, more industry-specific exploration of engagement metrics in assessing post-digitalisation outcomes in companies.
Insiders Versus Outsiders: A Comparative Study of Female Politician’s Social Media use
Authors: Illés Tekla , M. Mwangi Zipporah
Published: May 2024

In the past, the media had a tendency to neglect women's issues, thereby restricting their visibility concerning development endeavours and political representation. However, this is changing due to technological advancements. Social media offers female politicians access to millions of users, freedom to interact directly with the electorate, bypass gatekeepers and opportunities for self-promotion. This research aims to investigate female politicians' social media use during their legislative terms with a focus on their self-presentation and the policy issues they support. The study involves content analysis of six female politicians from countries with a much lower female representation than their regional counterparts; three from Kenya and three from Hungary who have the highest number of followers on Twitter and Facebook respectively. The data was collected over a three-month period. The visuals were coded using 3 variables based on the insider and outsider perspective (Gulati 2004) while the text was coded in accordance with the 21 policy agendas defined by the Comparative Agendas Project codebook (Baumgartner 2019). The results indicate that a majority of female politicians in both countries, in the ruling parties presented themselves as insiders while those in the opposition presented themselves as outsiders. The insiders were majorly characterized by wearing of formal clothing, an important element of statesmanship, that portrays them as ideal candidates. In addition, the insiders' social media use was characterized by original content while outsiders reshared articles and retweets. Both Kenyan and Hungarian female politicians addressed women related policy issues. There were however some differences in social media use and self-presentation between the female politicians of the two countries such as the sharing of personal information and family pictures. The limitation of this study is that it does not fully represent the views and use of social media of all female politicians in Kenya and Hungary.
Exploring the Potential and Challenges of WhatsApp Focus Groups in Qualitative Consumer Research: A Case Study of Sustainable Eating
Authors: Oksman Virpi , Tamlander Tom , Ylisiurua Marjoriikka , Seisto Anu
Published: May 2024

The emergence of digital technologies has opened new methods for engaging consumers, conducting focus groups, and gathering research material online. One such method is the use of smartphone-based mobile messaging platform WhatsApp, which allows real-time discussions and diary-type studies. Nevertheless, the potential of WhatsApp focus groups as a research method necessitates further exploration. This paper analyses the advantages and limitations of employing WhatsApp-based focus groups in qualitative consumer studies related to sustainable eating. Specifically, we will examine the effectiveness, interaction, and quality of research materials obtained through this method in previous studies. To carry out our study, we organized a focus group in Finland utilizing the WhatsApp-based platform with a pre-selected panel of 24 participants. The study explored barriers to sustainable food choices among so-called imperfect consumer segments. Based on our observations, mobile focus groups offer a fruitful method for studying consumer insights due to the direct and non-hierarchical communication channels they provide between participants and researchers. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that materials acquired through mobile groups may be less extensive than those obtained through traditional focus groups. Participants often rely on emojis and emoticons to convey meaning, which may pose challenges in terms of text-based coding, categorization, and software utilization. Furthermore, the fragmented nature of messages presented another challenge in analysing the collected material. Additionally, when employing WhatsApp focus groups as a method, careful preparation of the question route is necessary to ensure the production of high-quality research materials.
Interstitial Dialogues: A Phenomenology of News-Comments
Authors: O'Leary MJ
Published: May 2024

This paper presents findings from a study that examined the phenomenological detail of the reading process involved in everyday encounters with news microposts. In recent decades, reading the news has become characterised by the micro-texts of social media, but the fine-grained detail of this encounter as a reading experience is often overlooked. In a series of reading exercises, long-form news articles and short-form news comments were shown to structure different reading experiences in terms of meaning and dialogue. These differences were linked to the specific layout of the texts within the website interface. The high volume of negative space surrounding the comments explained the dialogical mode by which the participant-readers made sense of these texts. The findings contribute to understandings of social media as phatic communication and challenge pessimistic accounts that link micro-texts to a decline in critical engagements with the news.
Swipe, Watch, Buy: Unraveling the Power of Product Placement in Short Videos on Youth Impulse Purchasing
Authors: Sinh Duc Sinh Duc , Kim Dao Anh , Hung Truong Phi , Pham Nguyet Minh
Published: May 2024

Drawing from the Stimulus-Organism-Response (S-O-R) model, this research aims to assess the dynamic impact of short-video product placement on the impulse buying behavior of young consumers. A structured survey was administered to a sample of 328 young consumers, aged between 18 and 30, who regularly engage with short video content on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Reels. The findings reveal that product relevance significantly enhances enjoyment, thereby improving engagement with narratives that incorporate product placements seamlessly. Emotional appeal in content markedly increases this enjoyment, underlining the effectiveness of emotionally resonant narratives and visuals. The study further demonstrates that a robust product-influencer fit amplifies the authenticity of the advertising message, leading to greater content enjoyment for viewers. Crucially, it confirms that the perceived enjoyment derived from engaging with short videos has a positive correlation with impulse buying behavior among young consumers. These insights underscore the importance of emotional and experiential elements in short-video content, shaping the purchasing decisions of younger audiences. This research contributes to the understanding of effective marketing strategies in the evolving digital realm, emphasizing the necessity for content creators and advertisers to prioritize narrative integration, emotional connectivity, and authenticity of influencer endorsements to effectively captivate and influence the youth market.