bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cross-cultural study in Chinese and Western music: Cultural advantages in recognition of emotions
Authors: Lyu Menglan , Egermann Hauke
Published: December 2024

The ability of music to communicate emotions cross-culturally has been explored in many studies. The first purpose of this study was to examine whether the previously hypothesised in-group advantage of emotion recognition in music holds between the Chinese and Western contexts. The second purpose was to investigate the associations between psychoacoustic features and the recognition of musical emotions in Chinese and Western listeners. Chinese and Western participants were asked to listen to both Chinese and Western music intended to express happiness, sadness, peacefulness, anger, and fear, and indicate to which degree they thought the music expressed the provided five emotions on continuous scales ranging from 1 to 5. A series of mixed analyses of variance (ANOVAs) revealed that the in-group advantage was not well established in this study as Chinese listeners seemed to be more sensitive to the recognition of happiness and sadness but less sensitive to fear compared to their Western counterparts. The psychoacoustic features were extracted through the MIR Toolbox 1.8.1 and processed through principal component analysis. The following hierarchical linear regressions for each type of rating for Chinese and Western music separately showed that the type, number, and degree of psychoacoustic features correlated with emotion recognition differed across cultures.
Immunological Factors and Macronutrient Content in Human Milk From Women With Subclinical Mastitis
Authors: Ito Mizuho , Tanaka Miori , Date Midori , Miura Kumiko , Mizuno Katsumi
Published: December 2024

Background:

Subclinical mastitis is an asymptomatic inflammatory condition of the lactating mammary glands possibly associated with premature interruption of breastfeeding and poor weight gain in infants. However, data on human milk composition in mothers with subclinical mastitis are limited and inconsistent. Although human milk from donors with subclinical mastitis may be used after pasteurization if it meets the criteria, whether the composition is suitable for donor human milk remains unknown.

Research Aims:

This study assessed the human milk composition of participants with subclinical mastitis and verified the safety of donor human milk, including that from mothers with subclinical mastitis.

Methods:

This cross-sectional survey included 106 milk samples collected between March 2022 and January 2023. Subclinical mastitis status was assessed using the sodium-potassium ratio, which was measured using an ion-selective electrode. The concentrations of lactoferrin and secretory Immunoglobulin A were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. True protein, fat, carbohydrate, and energy levels were analyzed using a mid-infrared transmission spectroscopy.

Results:

In human milk from the subclinical mastitis group, lactoferrin and true protein concentrations were significantly increased compared to those without subclinical mastitis. A positive correlation was observed between lactoferrin and secretory Immunoglobulin A levels.

Conclusions:

Increased immunological substances and protein concentrations in human milk are similar to those observed in clinical mastitis, indicating an inflammatory response in the body, even in asymptomatic individuals. Immunological substances and proteins are beneficial for preterm infants. Therefore, human milk from mothers with subclinical mastitis is suitable for use by milk banks.
Black Men’s Gendered Racial Equity Ethic: Examining Its Impact on Career Motivations, Interests, and Future Goals
Authors: Beasley Samuel T. , Hernandez Adrian J.
Published: December 2024

Black men are underrepresented as trainees and faculty within graduate-level helping professions (e.g., psychology and counseling). One strategy for reducing this underrepresentation is to understand the motivating factors that attract Black men to helping fields and integrate these motivating factors into recruitment and retention interventions targeting this group. However, limited career research has explicitly focused on the motivations of Black men pursuing graduate education in psychology. Integrating McGee and Bentley’s Equity Ethic framework, the current study draws on 27 semi-structured interviews with Black men in counseling psychology doctoral programs to examine their motivations for pursuing a doctoral degree in a helping profession, their clinical and research interests, and their future career goals. Using reflexive thematic analysis, findings supported the presence of a Gendered Racial Equity Ethic that impacted all aspects of Black men’s professional journeys. Implications for research and practice supporting Black men’s career development in psychology fields are outlined.
Retirement, Social Engagement, and Post-Retirement Changes in Cognitive Function
Authors: Cabrera-Haro Lilian , Mendes de Leon Carlos F.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study examines whether social engagement at the time of retirement is associated with better cognitive function and slower cognitive decline.

Methods

Data come from 10 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, linked with data from the Consumption and Activities Mail Survey (CAMS). Respondents included those who had transitioned from working full-time to partial or full retirement. Social engagement was measured across 5 social activities and grouped into 4 categories.

Results

In fully adjusted regression models, higher frequency of participation in social activities was associated with higher cognitive function at the time of retirement but not with slower cognitive decline after retirement. An increase in social activities after retirement was not associated with better cognitive function or slower cognitive decline.

Discussion

These findings do not offer evidence that higher frequency of social engagement or increases in social engagement after retirement protect against post-retirement cognitive decline.
Preparation of phthalonitrile resin/calcium sulfate whisker composites with enhanced wear and heat resistance
Authors: Li Dengke , Zhao Han , Jia Zhiyi , Jia Dianqiu , Rong Jianxin , Yan Huaijie , Yu Xiaoyan , Zhang Qingxin
Published: December 2024

Composites based on high-performance resin matrix have excellent high temperature resistance, chemical stability, and excellent processability, and exhibit a wide range of applications in many fields. At present, there are no reports on the application of calcium sulfate whiskers (CSW) in phthalonitrile resins. In this study, KH560 was used to modify CSW, through FT-IR, TGA, XRD and XPS methods, KH560 was successfully grafted onto CSW, and the modified CSW was filled with phthalonitrile resin containing fluorine elements. SEM shows that the modified CSW is uniformly dispersed in the resin. The storage modulus of composites increased from 2.6 GPa to 3.8 GPa. Under air and nitrogen atmospheres, the T5% of the composites increased by about 10°C. When the addition amount of CSW is 10%, the friction coefficient of the material is reduced from 0.68 to 0.58, the depth of wear marks decreased from 49.1 μm to 27.9 μm, the wear rate of AFPN-10 (the addition amount of CSW is 10%) decreases from 3.59 × 10−4 mm3/(N·m) to 2.70 × 10−4 mm3/(N·m), the wear resistance performance was significantly improved. With the increase of CSW in composites, the hardness, reduced modulus and elastic recovery rate are also gradually increasing, the highest reduced modulus and hardness are 2434 MPa and 597 MPa respectively. The addition of CSW can improve the mechanical properties and thermal properties of the phthalonitrile resin, as well as enhance its anti-friction ability. Phthalonitrile resin-based composites have potential application values in the fields of aerospace, electronic instruments and lightweight components.
Quality improvement in palliative care: A review of the ethics
Authors: David Fearon , Felicity Knights , Cherisse Ratiram , Liz Grant , Marie Fallon
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Quality improvement is the systematic seeking of improvements in care and experience. This discussion paper will explore how the principles of good clinical care and the established ethical frameworks for research can help guide its practice, using examples from palliative care.

Quality improvement in palliative care

Palliative care is well positioned to be at the vanguard of quality improvement in healthcare. But it holds ethical particularities which require specific considerations, that are helpful for other specialities. The experiences of two improvement activities in palliative care, the Liverpool Care Pathway and Do Not Attempt Resuscitation status reviews, illustrate potential dangers of QI.

Implications for ethical practice

Recommendations for ethically sound quality improvement projects in palliative care include paying attention to the burden of time, viewing informed consent as a tool, monitoring for vulnerability and coercion and transparency in the use of data. The ethics and practices in clinical encounters provide a framework for approaching consent and protecting those with palliative care needs who are deemed as vulnerable. It is explicit in palliative care that time and energy are precious and finite resources. These must be valued and respected in any quality improvement projects. Respect for beneficence and autonomy is essential to avoid coercion and for any project to be ethically sound.

Conclusion

Quality improvement processes are an integral part of good healthcare practices. High ethical standards, a supportive culture, transparency and candour are needed for the promotion and sustainability of quality improvement in palliative care.
A contrastive analysis of two bone cement applicators for percutaneous vertebroplasty in the treatment of OVCF: A retrospective study
Authors: Xiao Ya-Ping , Liu Jie , Chang Jian-Zhong , Li Zhang-Hua
Published: December 2024

Background

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is the mainstream treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF). In order to provide better clinical efficacy and reduce complications, various bone cement applicators are still being developed and gradually applied in clinical practice. However their clinical results are still to be reported.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of the novel spiral cement applicators and the traditional push-rod applicators for the PVP treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF).

Methods

A retrospective study, from February 2017 to May 2019, was conducted on 107 OVCF patients who received PVP surgeries respectively with spiral applicators (Observation group) and pushrod applicators (Control group). Perioperative indicators, imaging indicators, clinical efficacy, other indicators were collected and compared.

Results

The follow-up period was two years. The baseline data of the two groups were comparable ( P > 0.05). The anterior edge height and kyphosis angle of the injured vertebrae after surgery compared with before surgery increased significantly in both groups ( P < 0.05). The midline height in the observation group after surgery compared with before surgery increased significantly ( P < 0.05). The kyphosis angle after surgery and these recovery rates of kyphosis angle, the anterior edge height, the midline height, the posterior edge height increased significantly in the observation group compared with the control group ( P < 0.05). VAS and ODI in both groups were significantly lower on the 3rd day and 2nd year after surgery than before surgery, and decreased gradually over time ( P < 0.05). The VAS and ODI on the 3rd day after surgery were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group ( P < 0.05). The number of fluoroscopy and operation time were significantly lower in the observation group than in the control group ( P < 0.05). The rate of bone cement leakage, bone cement diffusion coefficient and cement volume in the observation group were significantly higher than that of the control group ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The spiral applicator is better than the pushrod applicator in reducing the number of fluoroscopy and operation time, restoring vertebral height, correcting kyphosis, alleviating pain immediately, improving function, and facilitating dispersion of cement, with a higher rate of bone cement leakage.
Augmented Effect of Combined Robotic Assisted Gait Training and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation-irradiation Technique on Muscle Activation and Ankle Kinematics in Hemiparetic Gait: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Yoon Buhyeon , Park Seonmi , Oh Seungjun , You Joshua Sung H.
Published: December 2024

Background

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) alone has limited effectiveness in restoring gait, while robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) improves motor relearning through repetitive, task-specific movements. Combining PNF with robotic gait training (PRGT) may enhance locomotor recovery by promoting proprioceptive awareness and muscle activation alongside repetitive gait retraining in stroke patients.

Objective

This study compares the immediate effects of PRGT and RAGT on ankle dorsiflexion and muscle activity in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients and healthy controls.

Methods

Thirty participants, including 15 stroke patients and 15 healthy controls, were randomly assigned to PRGT or RAGT for a single 30-min session. Muscle activity (pectoralis major, external oblique, internal oblique/transverse abdominis, rectus femoris, tibialis anterior) was measured using electromyography, while ankle dorsiflexion angle was assessed using a dual-axis inclinometer.

Results

PRGT significantly increased muscle activations compared to RAGT in stroke patients ( p < 0.05). Additionally, there was a significant difference in ankle dorsiflexion between RAGT and PRGT in both groups ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion

PRGT demonstrated superior immediate effects on muscle activation and ankle movement, suggesting that combining PNF with robotic-assisted gait training is beneficial for chronic stroke rehabilitation.
A Mixed Methods Exploration of Participants’ Perspectives: A Wilderness-Based Adventure Therapy Program for Youth Who Have Experienced Cancer
Authors: Cavanaugh Daniel L. , Tucker Anita Reithoff , Pertl Kellie , Norton Christine Lynn , Mathes Kristin , Otto Heather Rose
Published: December 2024

Background: Youth who have experienced cancer face challenges that include social isolation, increased psychological risks, and developmental interruptions. Adventure therapy may offer a tool to enhance resilience for this population. Purpose: This study sought to understand how adolescents with lived experiences of cancer perceive and experience their participation in a wilderness-based adventure therapy program. Method: This study used a mixed methods design with a qualitative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and quantitative descriptives and independent sample t-tests of Adventure Therapy Experience Scale (ATES) scores to assess two cohorts of youth ( n = 17), ages 13–17, who participated in the See You at the Summit program. Findings: Five themes emerged from the data; social support/connection, choice/autonomy, psychological growth/emotional development, overcoming challenges, and time in nature. Quantitative results found the highest impact on the ATES Interpersonal and Nature subscales and the lowest with challenge. There were significant differences between younger and older participants on engagement in nature. Implications: Triangulation between qualitative themes and ATES scores offered insight into participant perspectives of the impact of the adventure therapy experience. Practice implications include the need for programs that promote social support, choice and autonomy, and time in natural settings.
All Talk, No Action? Politicians’ Agenda Responsiveness to Citizens’ Engagement on Social Media
Authors: Poljak Željko , Russell Annelise
Published: December 2024

Studies have shown that citizens’ engagement on social media drives politicians to adapt the issues they discuss online. However, for representative democracy to function effectively, politicians must not only discuss these issues but also act on them. This paper explores whether higher citizens’ engagement on social media shapes the issues politicians address online and leads to substantive agenda responsiveness, such as proposing legislation or raising issues in parliament. To do this, we examined over 370,000 Facebook posts by more than 350 politicians in Australia, Belgium, and the United States. Our results indicate that higher citizens’ engagement on politicians’ own social media regarding an issue increases the likelihood of politicians promoting concrete legislative or parliamentary actions related to that issue, regardless of the issue’s salience. These findings highlight social media’s role in informing and motivating politicians’ agenda responsiveness, with important implications for the current state of representative democracy.
Verified Human Trafficking Allegations Among Single and Dual System-Involved Children: Predicting Initial and Repeat Victimization
Authors: Cutbush Starseed Stacey , Kluckman Marianne , Tueller Stephen , Yu Lilly , Scaggs Sam
Published: December 2024

There is a dearth of research examining repeat human trafficking victimization among children involved with the child welfare system (i.e., single system involvement) and children involved with both the child welfare and juvenile justice systems (i.e., dual system involvement). This study uses longitudinal statewide linked administrative data from the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) and Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to investigate both initial and subsequent verified human trafficking allegations among single and dual system-involved children. We conducted logistic regression models to identify youth characteristics, prior DCF experiences, and prior DJJ experiences that predict initial and subsequent trafficking victimization. We also conducted survival analysis to identify time until human trafficking victimization and revictimization. Prior maltreatment, placement history, missing child events, referral without adjudication, community supervision, and residential facility placement predict initial trafficking victimization. These same indicators predict revictimization, except for prior placement history, residential facility commitment, prior physical abuse and prior sexual abuse. Approximately 1 in 5 child victims experience trafficking revictimization; the median time between initial and subsequent revictimization is about 6 months. This research has implications for policy and practice among system-involved children at greatest risk for human trafficking revictimization.
Neurostatus-SMARTCARE clinical trial: Enabling health care professionals to assess EDSS for decentralized trials in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mallucci Giulia , Zimmer Andrea , Sfikas Nikolaos , Cerdá-Fuertes Nuria , Wunderlin Simon , Athanasopoulou Ioanna , Mroczek Magdalena , Phavanh Vanny , Sanak Lisa , Suter Jolanda , Friedli Bernadette , Kel Jakob , Trouillet Thomas , Simmen Sarah , Ocampo Alex , Wei Wenjia , Kieseier Bernd , Kamm Christian P , Kappos Ludwig , D’Souza Marcus
Published: December 2024

Background:

Neurostatus-Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) is the standard measure used to assess impairment and disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) trials but requires trained expert neurologists.

Objectives:

This study aims to evaluate the concordance of Neurostatus-EDSS assessments from specially trained health care professionals (HCPs) and standardized trained neurologists.

Methods:

A Swiss multicenter, randomized, cross-over study with 100 people with MS. HCPs were trained to assess the Neurostatus-EDSS based on the newly developed SMARTCARE-EDSS training method.

Results:

The concordance rate between HCPs and neurologists was 0.87 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.815–0.925).

Conclusion:

Trained HCPs can reliably perform Neurostatus-EDSS assessments, supporting broader implementation and improved trial access.
‘I did what I could to earn some money and be of use’: A qualitative exploration of autistic people’s journeys to career success and fulfilment
Authors: Davies Jade , Melinek Rachel , Livesey Adam , Killick Estelle , Sam Evelyn , Romualdez Anna Melissa , Pellicano Elizabeth , Remington Anna
Published: December 2024

Employment contributes to well-being, yet many autistic people who want to work face barriers to meaningful employment. Much research focuses solely on employment rates, rather than taking a more holistic view of professional trajectories and occupational experiences. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 autistic adults to explore their experiences of, and perspectives on, career success. Our participants highlighted the overarching importance of finding fulfilment in one’s career. Using reflexive thematic analysis, we identified five additional key themes: (1) volatile career journeys, (2) the need for continuing career support, (3) the impact (positive or negative) of social interactions, (4) the important role of organisations and (5) the catastrophic impact of poor experiences. Our findings highlight the importance of tailored, lifelong employment support and inclusive workplaces in enabling autistic people to thrive at work. Enabling autistic career fulfilment requires moving beyond entry-level hiring to foster sustainable, fulfilling employment for all autistic people.

Lay abstract

Many autistic people want to work but have trouble finding jobs they like and can stick with. Most research tries to help more autistic people get jobs, but does not look at whether those jobs are fulfilling, or how people progress once they start working. We spoke to 18 autistic people about their experiences at work, and their ideas about success at work. Participants said finding fulfilment in their careers was key. We found five common ‘themes’ across the interviews. First, autistic people’s careers often take unexpected turns. For example, many participants only got diagnosed as adults, which sometimes changed their work plans. Second, autistic people might need ongoing help with their career, including help with finding jobs they would enjoy and be good at, and advice on how to progress in their job. Third, getting along with others at work is really important. Having supportive colleagues helped our participants thrive, but workplace bullying forced some to leave their jobs. Fourth, workplaces need to be welcoming to everybody. Adjustments and understanding managers helped, but many of our participants’ workplaces were not inclusive. Finally, bad work experiences can be devastating for mental health and well-being and negative experiences like bullying led some participants to quit working entirely. Our findings show that lifelong support tailored to each person and welcoming workplaces are important for autistic people to thrive at work. It is not enough to just hire autistic people – we need to help them have jobs they like and can stick with long-term.
Coordination in treatments for people who use anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) – Experiences of professionals
Authors: Myhre Linda Pettersen , Fineide Mona Jerndahl
Published: December 2024

Aims: Research has identified the use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) as a gap between treatment needs and available facilities for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment in Norway. State policy emphasizes the need for measures to ensure coordinated treatment services. This study aims to explore whether clinical pathways of mental health and substance abuse and team-based organisation function as intended in the treatment of patients with AAS use. Design: A qualitative research design was used. Individual semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with eight professionals who we assumed had experience with this patient group. The participants were asked about the clarification process regarding assessment and treatment for AAS and internal and external cooperation. Everyday work, roles and task distribution, structure and routines, and knowledge of AAS were topics that were addressed. We analysed by interpreting the data considering relevant theoretical perspectives of organisational- and sociology of profession perspective. Results: We found that it was arbitrary whether AAS use was discovered, which may indicate a lack of attention to this form of abuse. Organisation in teams seems to as an adequate horizontal coordination mechanism within SUD treatment. However, the teams lacked both knowledge of AAS as well medical expertise, which may lead to a lack of a treatment programme that is in line with the patient's needs. Conclusion: There still seems to be a need for increased awareness of AAS among the professionals and organisations involved. Team-based organisation within SUD seemed to function well, however loss of coordination between SUD and local services may indicate that the clinical pathway for mental health and substance abuse do not function as intended.
‘It would be very strange to make an artificial cut off point at 18 that trauma suddenly isn’t relevant’ – Perspectives of trauma-informed practice in higher education
Authors: Bodfield Kalum , Culshaw Aisling
Published: December 2024

Student mental health in the United Kingdom (UK) remains as key priority on the agenda of many Higher Education (HE) institutions. Current mandatory education in the UK provides guidance around supporting the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people, acknowledging that much of the origins of psychological distress and mental illness stems from experiences of trauma. Despite this, trauma-informed practice in HE appears out of sync with mandatory education with no clear national guidance. Therefore, it is of interest to explore HE professionals with teaching responsibilities perspectives of trauma-informed practice in universities, including their awareness of the concept and how applicable and appropriate it is for HE pedagogic practice. The study examines the views of HE professionals from English universities through online or face to face interviews. Seven themes were identified following thematic analysis. These themes represented the recurring discussions, concerns and thoughts outlined by HE professionals in relation to how they perceive trauma informed practice, how or indeed if it is currently applied, and how it can be applied given the concerns about the remit and role of staff and the limitations of HE in UK universities.
CT Radiomic Nomogram Using Optimal Volume of Interest for Preoperatively Predicting Invasive Mucinous Adenocarcinomas in Patients with Incidental Pulmonary Nodules: A Multicenter, Large-Scale Study
Authors: Zuo Zhichao , Zhang Guochao , Chen Jing , Xue Qi , Lin Shanyue , Zeng Ying , Ge Wu , Qi Wanyin , Yang Lu , Liu Haibo , Fan Xiaohong , Zhang Shuangping
Published: December 2024

Introduction

This study evaluated the efficacy of radiomic analysis with optimal volumes of interest (VOIs) on computed tomography images to preoperatively differentiate invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma (IMA) from non-mucinous adenocarcinoma (non-IMA) in patients with incidental pulmonary nodules (IPNs).

Methods

This multicenter, large-scale retrospective study included 1383 patients with IPNs, 110 (8%) of whom were pathologically diagnosed with IMA postoperatively. Radiomic features were extracted from multi-scale VOI subgroups (VOI−2 mm, VOIentire, VOI + 2 mm, and VOI + 4 mm). Resampling methods, specifically, the synthetic minority oversampling technique, addressed the imbalance between the majority (IMA) and minority (non-IMA) groups. Radiomic features were identified using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm. Radscores were calculated by linearly combining the selected features with their weights. A combined nomogram integrating the optimal VOI-based radiomic model with the image-finding classifier was constructed.

Results

Bubble lucency and lower lobe predominance were significant in establishing an image-finding classifier to differentiate between IMA and non-IMA in IPNs, achieving an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.684 (0.568-0.801). Across all radiomic models, IMA had a higher Radscore than did non-IMA. Specifically, the VOI + 2 mm-based radiomic model exhibited the highest performance, with an AUC of 0.832 (0.753-0.911). The combined nomogram outperformed the recognized image-finding classifier and radiomic models, achieving an AUC of 0.850 (0.776-0.925).

Conclusion

A nomogram that combines a recognized image-finding classifier with an optimal VOI-based radiomic model effectively predicts IMA in IPNs, aiding physicians in developing comprehensive treatment strategies.
Comprehensive Analysis of Non-coding RNAs Expression Profile and miRNA- circRNA-gene Co-expression Network in Developing Uterine Carcinosarcoma
Authors: Chen Min-Jun , Yang Ling , Huang Yue , Wang Yunjia , Cai Ying , Zhang Chi , Jin Su-Han , Frey Benjamin , Gaipl Udo S , Liu Yuan , Ma Hu , Zhou Jian-Guo
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Uterine carcinosarcoma (UCS), often presenting at the advanced stage, is a rare, aggressive form of uterine cancer. We conduct a prospective cohort study by systematically study whole transcriptome sequencing data of uterine carcinosarcoma to gain further insights into the transcriptomic landscape and molecular mechanism of UCS. Methods: RNAs were extracted from tissue samples from five UCS patients and three corresponding non-tumorous tissues adjacent, followed by Illumina sequencing technology for high-throughput sequencing. A functional clustering analysis of differentially expressed genes was subsequently conducted. Results: We identified 1650 upregulated and 1753 downregulated circRNAs, 1632 upregulated and 460 downregulated lncRNAs. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) mainly involve in IL-7 receptor-based signaling, MAPK signaling pathway, PD-L1 expression and PD-L1 checkpoint pathway and so on. An miRNA-circRNA-gene co-expression network reveals the top five correlated genes, miRNAs and circRNAs in developing UCS. Conclusion: In conclusion, we reveals the non-coding RNAs expression profile and a novel miRNA-circRNA-gene co-expression network shows correlated RNAs and genes in developing UCS. These profiles and correlated RNAs and genes may be potential pathways and targets in the diagnosis and treatment in developing UCS.
Zakat Applications in Peacebuilding Activities: Desired and Controversial Applications on Agreeable and Contested Projects. Case Study: Qatar
Authors: Alkahlout Ola
Published: December 2024

Recently, the world has witnessed significant crises, resulting in widespread poverty, unemployment, disease, displacement, inequality, and injustice. These crises have drawn considerable attention to zakat, compulsory almsgiving in Islam, and its applications in peacebuilding activities. This article explores the application of the eight zakat categories to peacebuilding activities and the willingness of Qatari people to allocate their zakat funds towards such initiatives. The study employs mixed methods, including a survey with 153 participants in Qatar and semi-structured interviews with 19 stakeholders and survey participants. The results indicate that the eight categories of zakat are divided between desired and controversial categories. Contributions can be classified into acceptable and contested projects. Given the significance of zakat, there is an urgent need to assess all possible applications of zakat to peacebuilding projects.
Repeat adolescent pregnancies in Southwestern Uganda: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ramachandran Rupa , Namatovu Shakillah , Atwine Daniel , Tumuhairwe Jackline , Nyakato Viola Nilah , Kemigisha Elizabeth , Ivanova Olena
Published: December 2024

Background:

Pregnancy in adolescents continues to remain a significant public health challenge, with repeat pregnancies in this age group often receiving insufficient attention. In Uganda, repeat adolescent pregnancy varies between 26.1% and 55.6%. Evidence shows that repeat pregnancy in adolescence is more common in settings of high poverty, low educational attainment and low use of long-acting reversible contraceptives among others.

Objectives:

The main aim of this study is to determine the underlying risk and protective factors of repeat adolescent pregnancy in Uganda.

Design:

This was a cross-sectional study among adolescent girls and young women aged between 13 and 22 years with single and repeat pregnancies in four districts in Southwestern Uganda.

Methods:

The questionnaire was administered on a portable PC to collect information on socio-demographic characteristics, sexual behaviours, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge, pregnancy outcome, experience of violence and mental health. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were performed.

Results:

A total of 115 girls with single and 93 with repeat pregnancies participated in the survey. Of these, 42 (20.2%) were 18 years and younger. The majority (92%) had dropped out of school, having achieved primary-level education (67%). The mean age of sexual debut (15.6 versus 16.4 years) and the mean age at first pregnancy (16.4 versus 17.3 years) were lower among those in repeat-pregnancy group compared to those in single-pregnancy group. The odds of having repeat pregnancy were higher among participants who engaged in risky behaviour (AOR 3; 95% CI (1.28–7.37)) and experienced any form of violence (AOR 4.67; 95% CI (1.5–16.56)). Being single, having the first pregnancy in older age (16 and above) and having a positive first pregnancy outcome (live birth) served as protective factors for repeat pregnancy.

Conclusions:

Adolescents with repeat pregnancies have significantly more SRH risks compared to those with single pregnancies. These findings underscore the importance of multi-faceted and timely interventions for adolescent girls in this setting, with an emphasis on the mitigation of violence, and enhancing access to comprehensive sexuality education, and SRH services.
What teaching attributes are essential for promoting inclusion and social justice in primary education? A co-constructed research study with student teachers
Authors: Muñoz Martínez Yolanda , Figueroa Céspedes Ignacio , Domínguez Santos Susana
Published: December 2024

The article explores the essential attributes required for primary education teachers to promote inclusion and social justice. This study aims to identify and analyze the teaching attributes perceived as essential by student teachers in primary education. Employing a qualitative approach grounded in Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR), the research involved six co-construction sessions with 14 student teachers specializing in special educational needs, conducted during their practicum seminars. Field notes and research journals were used alongside collaborative content analysis with participants to ensure depth and accuracy. The study identifies ten key attributes for inclusive and socially just teaching: respect for differences, empathy, personalized education, continuous professional development, coherence between values and practice, the use of inclusive methodologies, motivation and a positive attitude, teacher collaboration, effective communication with families, and self-reflection coupled with problem-solving skills. The findings emphasize that preparing inclusive teachers who promote social justice requires integrating values with methodological skills through reflective learning and collaborative practices. Bridging the gap between ideals and practice necessitates a robust theoretical foundation, practical tools, and institutional support. The study underscores the importance of defining these attributes clearly and shaping teacher education with an inclusive profile grounded in practical experience.
An exploration of relationships between associative and non-associative measures of inhibition
Authors: Brudan Ovidiu I , Eisenbarth Hedwig , Glautier Steven
Published: December 2024

Conditioned inhibition and occasion setting are two examples of inhibitory associative phenomena that have traditionally been studied in isolation from non-associative inhibition. Non-associative inhibition has been assessed using a variety of measures (e.g., stop signal reaction time and impulsivity questionnaires) and weak non-associative inhibition has been linked to a variety of disorders including addiction. However, even though both associative and non-associative inhibition have a common core—both involve suppression of behaviour, there has been relatively little study of potential relationships between these different forms of inhibition. In the current investigation, we carried out exploratory analyses to look for possible links between associative inhibition and four non-associative measures of inhibition, namely, (1) stop signal reaction time, (2) delay discounting, and scores on (3) the Behaviour Inhibition System/Behaviour Activation System and (4) Barratt Impulsivity questionnaires. Despite the fact that we carefully selected data to minimise noise in the measurement of associative inhibition, we found no clear evidence of links between associative and non-associative inhibition. We therefore conclude that while there may be superficial similarities between these different forms of inhibition they are likely to have different substrates.
Mapping the gap: A study on the confidence in knowledge and reporting of relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) in Canadian University cross-country coaches and athletes
Authors: Schulz Jenna M. , Hewitt Chloe M. , Stellingwerff Trent , Stellingwerff Hilary , Ackerman Kathryn E. , Thornton Jane S.
Published: December 2024

Background/Objective

To assess athletes’ and coaches’ confidence in knowledge and recognition of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) before and after an education session at the Canadian University Sports (U SPORTS) National Cross-Country Championships (UXC).

Methods

We hosted an education session and panel discussion surrounding causes and risk factors, health and performance outcomes, prevention, as well as personal experiences the day before UXC. A cross-sectional in-person survey (39 pre- and 29 post-session questions) was implemented around the session. Sixty-eight athletes (85% ages 19–24y, 73.5% women) and 20 coaches (30% > 50y, 35% women) completed the survey.

Results

Pre-panel, 80% of coaches and 59% of athletes were able to correctly identify the underlying cause of REDs (low energy availability). However, only 50% of coaches and 13% of athletes were completely confident in their answers. The most common correctly identified symptoms were fatigue (coaches = 40%, athletes = 53%) and amenorrhoea (coaches = 30%, athletes = 57%). However, only 20% of coaches and 7% of athletes were completely confident in their answers. After the panel, confidence levels of coaches in identifying signs/symptoms did not change (p = 0.52; complete confidence = 20%), but significantly improved in athletes (p < 0.001; complete confidence = 32%). Low libido was a commonly identified learned symptom.

Conclusion

An education session and panel discussion surrounding REDs significantly increased the confidence in REDs knowledge among UXC athletes, but not among coaches. Further exploration of REDs knowledge dissemination strategies, that should be different for athletes versus coaches, is needed to improve awareness of REDs.
Bayes estimation of defective proportion for single shot device testing data with information on masking and manufacturing defects
Authors: Kumari Akanksha , Sharma Vikas Kumar
Published: December 2024

The present work addresses the problem of estimating the defective proportion of Single-Shot-Devices under the Bayesian paradigm while taking failure cause information into account. In addition, the maximum likelihood estimation is also presented. The logit transformation is suggested to use for defective proportion parameter for better stability of the numerical maximum likelihood estimate. The same transformation is used for the posterior distribution. Since the posterior distribution becomes complex, we propose the use of Metropolis-Hastings method to draw the posterior samples and present posterior sample based inferences. Bayes estimation under several symmetric and asymmetric loss functions is presented in this work. Predictive posterior density of future failures is also derived. The prior distributions of the model parameters are assumed to follow specific functional forms. A comprehensive simulation study is conducted to examine the performance of the estimates in relation to sample size and model parameters. Our study demonstrates that integrating combined information on masking and defective proportions is crucial for parameter estimation. To demonstrate the practical application of our proposed methodology, we apply it to skin cancer data using the linear failure rate model as survival distribution.
Efficacy of the intravenous formulation of fentanyl citrate administered orally as premedication in paediatric patients undergoing open cardiac surgery
Authors: Elbardan Islam Mohamed , Shehab Ahmed Sayed , Yacout Ahmed Galaleldin , Mabrouk Ibrahim Mabrouk
Published: December 2024

Background:

Recently, fentanyl has become prevalent as a sedative premedication.

Methods:

A non-inferiority parallel design quadruple-blinded randomised controlled trial of 1- to 7-year-old children scheduled for elective cardiac surgery was conducted. Participants were assigned a 1:1 allocation ratio to a control group ( n = 50) given a parenteral formulation of midazolam 0.5 mg/kg and an intervention group ( n = 50) given a parenteral formulation of fentanyl 10 μg/kg 30 min before admission to the operating room.

Results:

Fentanyl was shown to be inferior when compared to midazolam during inhalational induction but not in the ‘after premedication’ and ‘during separation’ periods. A lower percentage of children disliked the medication in the fentanyl group.

Conclusions:

A parenteral formulation of fentanyl can be a satisfactory alternative when given orally as a sedative pre-anaesthetic medication in paediatric cardiac surgery before admission to the operating room.
What volume of injection should be used in hydrodilatation for frozen shoulder? A prospective cohort study
Authors: Jhaj Jasmeet , Woolner Benjamin , Rankin Sally , Heard Gabriel , Planner Andrew , Thahal Hyeladzira , Woods David
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the outcome and recurrence rates after hydrodilatation (HD) in patients with frozen shoulder (FS), comparing the effects of injecting 25 mL or more of fluid versus lower volumes. A total of 132 shoulders (130 patients) were treated at a shoulder clinic between August 2019 and February 2023. HD was performed under ultrasound guidance, injecting a combination of 40 mg Triamcinolone, 10 mL of local anaesthetic, and saline to a total volume of 10 to 40 mL based on patient tolerance. The results were analysed based on the volume of fluid injected and whether patients were diabetic. The overall failure or recurrence rate (FRR) was 24% after a minimum of 1 year. Non-diabetic patients injected with ≥25 mL had a significantly lower FRR (9%) compared to those injected with <25 mL (30%, p = 0.006). Diabetic patients had a much higher FRR of 52%, compared to 17% in non-diabetics ( p = 0.0002). The study concluded that injecting patients with ≥25 mL of fluid had a significantly lower FRR than those injected with <25 mL at a minimum of 12 months follow-up (9% vs 30%, p = 0.006). Diabetic patients experienced a higher rate of recurrence, suggesting the need for patient counselling about the increased likelihood of failure.
Femoral bone metastasis is a poor prognostic factor in EGFR-TKIs-treated patients with EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer: a retrospective, multicenter cohort study
Authors: Tanaka Ichidai , Hori Kazumi , Koyama Junji , Gen Soei , Morise Masahiro , Kodama Yuta , Matsui Akira , Miyazawa Ayako , Hase Tetsunari , Hibino Yoshitaka , Yokoyama Toshihiko , Kimura Tomoki , Yoshida Norio , Sato Mitsuo , Ishii Makoto
Published: December 2024

Background:

Epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR)-mutant non-small-cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) have higher frequencies of bone metastases than those of wild type; however, the metastatic pattern and influence on clinical outcome remain unclear.

Objectives:

To analyze the association between bone metastatic sites and the clinical efficacy of the first-, second-, and third-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI), in these patients.

Design:

Retrospective multicenter cohort study.

Methods:

The clinical data of patients with advanced-NSCLC harboring EGFR mutation, who were treated by EGFR-TKIs as first-line treatment at five medical institutions ( N = 411), were retrospectively assessed for bone metastatic sites, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results:

Bone metastases were found in 41.1% of the patients at diagnosis, including 13.1%, 8.0%, and 20.0 for single, double, and multiple lesions (⩾3), respectively. The vertebra (76.3%) and pelvis (60.9%) were the most frequent metastatic sites. Femoral-, sternum-, and scapula-metastases were remarkably increased in the patients with multiple-bone metastases. In the EGFR-mutant NSCLC patient treated with osimertinib, both the OS and the PFS of the patients with femoral bone metastasis were significantly shorter than those of the patients without femoral bone metastasis (OS: not reached vs 12.1 months, p < 0.0001; and PFS: 17.2 vs 9.3 months, p < 0.0018). Furthermore, a multivariable Cox regression analysis, including several poor prognostic factors, such as L858R mutation and liver metastasis, demonstrated that femoral bone metastasis was a statistically independent predictor of OS.

Conclusion:

Femoral bone metastasis is associated with poor survival of EGFR-mutant NSCLC patients who were treated with EGFR-TKIs, including osimertinib, and is an independent prognostic factor of OS.
AI and Machine Learning: What to know and how to talk about it to researchers and patrons
Authors: Watkins Trevor , Johnson Qiana
Published: December 2024

This paper examines Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) through two distinct lenses. Section one, through the lens of an academic librarian, discusses integrating Generative AI tools, ChatGPT, and Gemini into the classroom and the need for academic libraries to adapt and support faculty, researchers, and students in AI literacy. This section details the creation of an AI task force, community of practice, and salon series within the George Mason University Libraries as a model for responding to these challenges. Section two, through the lens of researchers and their perspective on the uses and misuses of AI and ML, evaluates various AI technologies, including their strengths and weaknesses, and the ethical considerations surrounding their use, including bias in training data, data ownership, and environmental impact. Together, these sections offer a comprehensive overview of AI and ML and highlight both the opportunities and challenges they present for researchers and patrons.