bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Customized Thermoplastic Patient-Specific Helmet Bolus for Scalp Irradiation Using Volumetric-Modulated Arc Therapy Planning
Authors: Kim Heesoo , Lee Jeong-Woo , Hong Semie
Published: April 2024

Introduction: In this study, we sought to develop a thermoplastic patient-specific helmet bolus that could deliver a uniform therapeutic dose to the target and minimize the dose to the normal brain during whole-scalp treatment with a humanoid head phantom. Methods: The bolus material was a commercial thermoplastic used for patient immobilization, and the holes in the netting were filled with melted paraffin. We compared volumetric-modulated arc therapy treatment plans with and without the bolus for quantitative dose distribution analysis. We analyzed the dose distribution in the region of interest to compare dose differences between target and normal organs. For quantitative analysis of treatment dose, OSLD chips were attached at the vertex (VX), posterior occipital (PO), right (RT), and left temporal (LT) locations. Results: The average dose in the clinical target volume was 6553.8 cGy (99.3%) with bolus and 5874 cGy (89%) without bolus, differing by more than 10% from the prescribed dose (6600 cGy) to the scalp target. For the normal brain, it was 3747.8 cGy (56.8%) with bolus and 5484.6 cGy (83.1%) without bolus. These results show that while the dose to the treatment target decreased, the average dose to the normal brain, which is mostly inside the treatment target, increased by more than 25%. With the bolus, the OSLD measured dose was 102.5 ± 1.2% for VX and 101.5 ± 1.9%, 95.9 ± 1.9%, and 81.8 ± 2.1% for PO, RT, and LT, respectively. In addition, the average dose in the treatment plan was 102%, 101%, 93.6%, and 80.7% for VX, PO, RT, and LT. When no bolus was administered, 59.6 ± 2.4%, 112.6 ± 1.8%, 47.1 ± 1.6%, and 53.1 ± 2.3% were assessed as OSLD doses for VX, PO, RT, and LT, respectively. Conclusion: This study proposed a method to fabricate patient-specific boluses that are highly reproducible, accessible, and easy to fabricate for radiotherapy to the entire scalp and can effectively spare normal tissue while delivering sufficient surface dose.
It’s About Time! Timing in Epilepsy Evaluation and Treatment
Authors: McKee Heather Ravvin , Vidaurre Jorge , Clarke Dave , Wagner Janelle , W. Britton Jeffrey , Laux Linda , Trinka Eugen , Rubinos Clio , McDonald Tanya J. W. , Lado Fred A. , Bebin Martina , Papadelis Christos , Struck Aaron F. , Maciel Carolina B. , Velasco Ana L. , Chandran Arjun , Pati Sandipan , Tandon Nitin , Vaca Guadalupe Fernandez-Baca , Berl Madison M. , Moosa Ahsan N.
Published: April 2024

The 2023 American Epilepsy Society Annual Course “It’s About Time” addressed timing in epilepsy evaluation and treatment with respect to health disparity and vulnerable populations and diagnostic, clinical, and epilepsy surgery evaluation. This comprehensive course included topics on gaps in epilepsy care and optimization of behavioral health for patients with epilepsy. The summary details current knowledge in areas of seizure forecasting and epileptogenesis. Intricacies and controversies over timing were discussed for treatment of nonconvulsive seizures and ictal-interictal patterns, acute symptomatic seizures, neuromodulation versus surgery, and epilepsy surgery in status epilepticus. Timing regarding clinical care in autoimmune-associated epilepsy, developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, and dietary therapy were examined. Additionally, salient topics on using novel biomarkers and collaboration with neuropsychological outcomes were also tackled in this all-encompassing lecture series.
Playing Through the Pandemic: Gaming Usage as a Buffer During COVID-19
Authors: Williams Dmitri , Liu Mingxuan , Choi Sukyoung , Bowman Nicholas , Jawaid Shaikh Sonia
Published: April 2024

Amidst the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, video games were used heavily, presumably to help cope with negative moods and social isolation. This study sought to understand the implications of such play on well-being within a particular sample. Drawing on uses and gratifications and self-determination theories, the study adopted a longitudinal perspective incorporating data from one game, both before and during the pandemic. Data included both repeated cross-sectional surveys as well as unobtrusive, within-game measures. Among players of a marginally social, large-scale, team-based vehicle combat game (World of Tanks), play time increased slightly while well-being was generally steady. Increases in play were associated with increases in competence, which in turn lead to higher well-being. The theoretical implications and generalizability of the findings are discussed.
Department of Veterans Affairs Healthcare Provider Perceptions of Confidence Following a Wheelchair/Adaptive Tai Chi Chuan Training
Authors: Lauber Danielle E. , Guo Zibin , Hathaway Elizabeth D.
Published: April 2024

The changing needs of our nation’s military veterans call for a change in the healthcare system delivery models providing their primary sources of care. The VA Healthcare System has incorporated a whole health movement emphasizing individualized approaches to healthcare by encouraging complementary and integrative programs. Wheelchair/Adaptive Tai Chi Chuan (W/A/TCC) is such program offering a transformative opportunity to programmatically enhance veteran healthcare services by enhancing the training of VA healthcare providers. This article explores the impacts of a 7-posture W/A TCC instructional training program for healthcare providers that has been facilitated throughout the VA healthcare system since 2016. The purpose is to better understand the impact this training has on healthcare providers, including Recreational Therapists (RTs). A mixed-methods design exploring participant perspectives showed increased confidence levels following training in several key areas and no statistically significant differences between RTs compared to all other healthcare providers. Meaningful impacts described by participants are explored. Overall discussion focuses on this specific training program’s unique applicability for directly influencing VA healthcare providers and the veterans being served. Overall results offer support for wheelchair/adaptive tai chi chuan training as one strategy that can be utilized to increase the success of holistic veteran healthcare.
Research Protocol: A Transdisciplinary Multi-Case Study Research Design Using Mixed Methods to Evaluate the Long-Term Impact of Holocaust Museum Education in Australia
Authors: Robinson Helena , Alba Avril , Frieze Donna-Lee , Cooke Steven , Singleton Andrew
Published: April 2024

Holocaust museums around the world are distinctive in their emphasis on educational missions premised on the idea of “never again”, a deep belief that increasing public awareness of the history and contemporary significance of the Holocaust – the mass murder of six million European Jews by the Nazi regime during World War Two – can prevent the future recurrence of such events. In the Australian context, tens of thousands of school students visit Holocaust museums every year to participate in learning programs designed to impart powerful historical and moral lessons about the Holocaust, its antecedent conditions, and its ongoing relevance. The aspirations attached to these programs and the scale at which they are delivered stand in stark contrast to the lack of empirical evidence to support their efficacy. This research protocol describes an extensive four-year research study designed to evaluate the presumed linear relationship between Holocaust education programs and ethical, moral, and affective learning that leads to durable attitudinal and behavioural change. Funded through the Australian Research Council’s Linkage Projects scheme, the study will assess the impact of Holocaust museums’ education programs on high school students from diverse demographics, including the extent to which participation influences the views and actions of young people in relation to racial and identity-based discrimination. The research design is longitudinal and transdisciplinary, integrating qualitative, quantitative, and participatory techniques across three case studies. By strategically employing rapid ethnographic assessment procedures, archival research, analysis of museum representational practices, surveys, and visual research methods, we will examine both the educational intent behind Holocaust education programs and their actual impacts on a large sample of Australian Year 10 students. We expect the results of the research to be used by our project partners to develop Holocaust education programs that effectively engage students on cognitive and affective levels.
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy – Are you listening?
Authors: Chambers Jenny
Published: April 2024

Through their personal experience of having intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), this paper covers the development of current understanding of ICP. It summarises how research and clinical practice was developed through clinicians and followed by the inception of an ICP research group in the 1990s. This group's work has led to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind ICP, the risk threshold for stillbirth, and a genomic understanding of the condition. It focuses on how collaborative work between the author and researchers led to the formation of a charity for ICP. Despite this, some obstetric healthcare professionals continue to provide misinformation about ICP to women and birthing people. Furthermore, the views of those affected by ICP, together with the research they present to clinicians, are being ignored. It highlights a need for those managing ICP to listen to their patients and to pay closer attention to the research being published.
Beyond the Jump: A Scoping Review of External Training Load Metrics in Volleyball
Authors: Rebelo André , Pereira João R. , Nakamura Fábio Y. , Valente-dos-Santos João
Published: April 2024

Context:

Volleyball is a complex sport involving multifaceted movements and high-velocity actions, leading to diverse external training loads (ETLs) that have profound implications for player performance and injury risk.

Objective:

To provide a comprehensive overview of the measurement of ETL in volleyball, identify gaps in current understanding, and offer valuable insights for stakeholders in the field.

Data Sources:

The literature search was conducted across the following electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus.

Study Selection:

Studies were selected based on their relevance to the measurement of ETL in volleyball.

Study Design:

A scoping review methodology was chosen to map and summarize the broad body of literature related to ETL measurement in volleyball.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Data Extraction:

Data related to ETL measurements in volleyball were extracted and analyzed from the selected studies, focusing on metrics utilized, player positions examined, and technologies employed.

Results:

A total of 18 studies related to ETL in volleyball were identified and examined for this review. Despite the importance of sagittal plane movements in volleyball, the review identified a substantial research gap regarding ETL measurements beyond this plane, as well as a lack of focus on the unique demands of different player positions like the liberos. The use of technologies such as inertial measurement units was prevalent, but more comprehensive measurement methods are needed.

Conclusion:

There is a critical need for diversified ETL metrics in volleyball, extending beyond the conventional sagittal plane measurements. The findings highlight a substantial research gap in addressing the unique demands of different player positions, notably the liberos. This study underscores the importance of incorporating multiplanar movement data, player-specific roles, and advanced measurement technologies to develop more tailored training programs and injury prevention strategies.
Focal Status Epilepticus and Extreme Delta Brush Associated With Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Yap Lauren E. , Chen Huanwen , Ganji Sarah , Calabria Samuel E. , Serrano Edwin J. , Stemer Andrew B. , Tirol Francis G. , Jazebi Noushin
Published: April 2024

Acute focal neurological deficits demand immediate evaluation. In this report, we present the case of a woman 20-some years of age with a history of hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia who presented with altered mental status and focal neurological deficits including aphasia, acute left gaze preference, right homonymous hemianopsia, right lower facial weakness, and right arm and leg weakness. Extensive neurological and hematological workup revealed that the patient suffered from focal status epilepticus associated with an extreme delta brush patten on electroencephalogram, likely secondary to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. This case underscores the connection between hematological disorders and the neurological axis, emphasizing the critical role of integrating the neurological examination and neuroimaging findings to formulate an effective management plan.
Current research status and future of endovascular treatment for basilar artery aneurysms
Authors: Yu Jinlu
Published: April 2024

Aneurysms occurring along the basilar artery (BA) account for <1% of all intracranial aneurysms. Endovascular treatment (EVT) in particular is recommended for large unruptured BA aneurysms and ruptured BA aneurysms. Given that EVT techniques vary, a detailed review of EVT for BA aneurysms is necessary. In this review, the following issues were discussed: the anatomy and anomalies of the BA, the classification of BA aneurysms, the natural history of BA aneurysms, the status of open surgery, the use of EVT for various types of BA aneurysms and the deployment of new devices. According to the findings of this review and based on our experience in treating BA aneurysms, traditional coiling EVT is still the optimal therapy for most BA aneurysms. However, in some BA aneurysms, flow diverter (FD) deployment can be used. In addition, there are also some new devices, such as intrasaccular flow disruptors and stent-like devices that can be used to treat BA aneurysms. In general, EVT can yield good clinical and angiographic outcomes for patients with BA aneurysms. In addition, recent new devices and techniques, such as new-generation FDs generated via surface modification and virtual reality simulation techniques, show promise for EVT for BA aneurysms. These devices and techniques may further improve EVT outcomes for BA aneurysms.
Endovascular treatment of intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas with Onyx: A consecutive series of 62 patients from a single-center
Authors: Ma Yihui , Li Zejin , Feng Yu , Zhang Tingbao , Chen Xinjun , Zhao Wenyuan
Published: April 2024

Objective

Intracranial intracranial dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) are mainly treated with an endovascular approach and various embolic agents. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of Onyx embolization in the treatment of DAVFs and characterize the factors as sociated with complete obliteration.

Methods

This retrospective study was based on 62 patients with DAVFs who underwent endovascular treatment with Onyx alone or in combination with coils at our institution. Clinical and imaging data were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 62 patients with 64 DAVFs were treated with endovascular embolization. The most common primary symptom was ophthalmological signs with a rate of 37.1%. Cognard type III was the most commonly seen subtype (32.8%). The immediate complete occlusion and follow-up rate was 92.2% and 93.5%, respectively. Transvenous balloon-assisted sinus protection was used in 12 patients (18.8%). The pressure cooker technique was used in eight patients (12.5%). Complications were seen in five patients including intracerebral hemorrhage ( n = 2), venous thrombotic events ( n = 2), and glued microcatheter ( n = 1).

Conclusions

Endovascular Onyx alone or in combination with coils embolization is a safe and effective therapy for DAVFs. Favorable angiographic and clinical outcomes can be achieved using different endovascular approaches. Transvenous balloon-assisted sinus protection and the pressure cooker technique may help achieve complete occlusion of DAVFs.
Voluntary work in the Italian experience: the curious case of ‘socially useful workers’
Authors: Ratti Luca
Published: April 2024

The demarcation of the personal scope of application of EU labour law results from the interplay between national legislation and the CJEU case law. This article analyses the particular case of socially useful workers in the Italian legal system and questions its compliance with EU law. It does so by exploring an intricate legal framework and the relevant interpretation by domestic and European adjudicators.
Under what conditions do volunteers escape being qualified as workers?
Authors: Gruber-Risak Martin , Obrecht Sascha
Published: April 2024

This contribution looks at the status of volunteers in EU labour law taking into account the criteria of the CJEU's Lawrie-Blum formula. It demonstrates, in light of the jurisprudence of the Court, that some criteria may be problematic and that a purposive approach may provide adequate solutions.
Outcomes of pediatric extracranial germ cell tumors: A single center experience in a developing country
Authors: Saliyeva Symbat , Boranbayeva Riza , Bulegenova Minira , Zhumadullayev Bakhram , Nurzhanova Gaukhar , Manzhuova Lyazat
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes of extracranial GCT in children in a developing country and to assess prognostic factors. The data on 141 children (<18 years old) with extracranial GCT, confirmed histopathologically, collected over the past 9 years (from February 2013 to June 2022) were retrospectively studied. The patients underwent the same therapy with platinum-containing chemotherapy regimens. In the malignant GCT group, OS and EFS were 81.0 ± 4% and 73 ± 5%, respectively. OS and EFS in the teratoma group were 90 ± 5% and 85 ± 6%. In univariate analysis, parameters like stage of disease, tumor localization, AFP level ≥10,000 ng/mL, serum AFP kinetics and resection status were found to be statistically significant prognostic factors. In the multivariate analysis, the significant adverse factors were the resection status, initial AFP level ≥10,000 ng/mL and serum AFP kinetics slow down ( p = .000). Good survival rates can be achieved in developing countries with adequate compliance with treatment protocols. The analysis demonstrates high efficacy of platinum-containing chemotherapy regimens. In our opinion, the protocol used in high-income countries can be implemented in low-income countries with the financial support from the government. The qualification of specialists is also important.
Planetary rural geographies: Towards a research agenda
Authors: Wang Chi-Mao , Maye Damian , Woods Michael
Published: April 2024

This author reply responds to the commentaries on our article, ‘Planetary rural geographies’, exploring intersections with neo-Marxist political economy, post-colonialism, and digital geographies. The critiques raise questions about the portrayal of rural spaces as sources of planetary crises. We emphasize the intention of the planetary rural geographies framework to avoid a simplistic rural – urban dichotomy and argue for a nuanced understanding of planetary crises. Our response delves into the role of agency in a neoliberal capitalist context, incorporating post-humanist perspectives. It also examines the complex relationship between rural populism, conflicts, and planetary crises. Planetary rural geographies seek to integrate diverse perspectives as a research agenda, acknowledging the need for empirical tools to translate theoretical insights into meaningful interventions for just, equitable transitions.
Elevated uric acid in gestational diabetes and its risk on pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Ahmed Marwa Mostafa , Saad Nagwa Eid , Abbas Shimaa Mohamed , El Azizi Tarek Mohamed Saeed , El Sayed Inas
Published: April 2024

Background:

Over the past few years, gestational diabetes mellitus has become more common. According to earlier research, gestational diabetes mellitus is linked to higher uric acid levels, and gestational hyperuricemia is linked to poor maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Aim and objectives:

To assess the influence of elevated uric acid >5 mg/dl on pregnancy outcomes such as neonatal weight, respiratory distress, preterm delivery, neonatal intensive care unit admission, premature membrane rupture, oligohydramnios, cesarean section, and intensive care admission for mothers.

Setting and methods:

It is a prospective cohort study, carried out at obstetric/family medicine outpatient clinics, Cairo University Hospitals on 221 pregnant females with gestational diabetes mellitus in their third trimester of pregnancy, selected by random sampling, performed structured interviews, and tested for serum uric acid level and were separated into two groups, those with elevated uric acid >5 mg/dl (121) and those without elevated uric acid ⩽5 mg/dl (100) patients and then followed up until delivery in Cairo University Hospitals for collecting pregnancy outcome data.

Results:

There were statistically significant differences between the antepartum uric acid and neonatal complications, maternal complications, preterm, macrosomia, neonatal intensive care unit admission, premature rupture of membranes, oligohydramnios, and cesarean section between both groups.

Conclusions:

This study showed that elevated serum uric acid >5 mg/dl can predict the incidence of maternal and neonatal problems in gestational diabetes mellitus including preterm, macrosomia, neonatal intensive care unit admission, premature rupture of membranes, oligohydramnios, and cesarean section.
Preventing and reducing bullying victimization in high schools: Which works better? Physical or psychological safety measures
Authors: Grmuša Adrijana , Hong Jun Sung
Published: April 2024

Even though the growing field of school safety research is multifaceted and multidisciplinary, discrepancies still exist among researchers and policymakers about how best to achieve the goal of creating a safe school environment. In response to ongoing concerns about bullying as one of the main school safety issues, schools are implementing various strategies to prevent it. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects that two dimensions of school safety (physical and psychological) have on reports of bullying victimization. In this study, data from 1526 (16–18 years old) students from 19 state schools in Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia, were analyzed using hierarchical multiple regression. The findings showed a negative association between psychological safety and bullying victimization. In contrast, the dimension of physical safety showed no association with bullying victimization.
A Comparative Study of Chinese/Korean Faculty and British/American Faculty in Japanese Universities
Authors: Huang (黄福涛) Futao , Chen (陈丽兰) Lilan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aims to explore the demographics, perceptions, and predictors of job satisfaction of Chinese/Korean faculty and American/British faculty at Japanese universities.

Design/Approach/Methods

The data from a national survey of these faculty conducted in Japan was analyzed.

Findings

The study suggests that Chinese/Korean faculty tend to be distributed across all the disciplines with senior positions and have higher scientific achievements and Japanese language proficiency, contributing to their better recognition and engagement at Japanese universities. Their job satisfaction was more inclined to be influenced by the intangible factors from the environmental conditions. Whereas American/British faculty were mainly hired in Humanities and Social sciences at mid to high positions, having lower Japanese proficiency and scientific achievement, which results in their perceived lower recognition and participation at Japanese universities. However, they tend to have a higher evaluation of working conditions at Japanese universities and express higher job satisfaction. Their job satisfaction was predicted by various factors, including intangible factors and tangible factors.

Originality/Value

The study was the first attempt to explore international faculty's job satisfaction in Japan. The key findings shed light on the situation of international faculty in Japan and help to better support international faculty practically.
Do Economic Complexity Drivers Differ by Income Level? Insights From a Global Perspective
Authors: Şanlı Devran , Gülbay Yiğiteli Nadide , Ergün Tatar Havanur
Published: April 2024

This study examines the drivers of economic complexity for 97 countries over the period 1995 to 2020 by income sub-groups. To investigate determinants of complexity, we develop five novel indexes. Using two-step system GMM (2SGMM) regression with the robust standard errors method, we found that institutional quality, health dimensions and macroeconomic conditions were enormously significant economic complexity drivers. However, the findings vary according to the country groups with different income levels. While the importance of openness and health dimensions are prominent in low and middle-income countries, capital stock and openness are the principal elements in the high-income group. The institutional quality is statistically significant and considerably affects on complexity in each group and across the panel. The education dimension of human capital has a positive effect only in the high-income group and across the panel, while it is negative in the middle and low-income groups, but its effect is weak. Moreover, these findings are valid in the long run. From a policy perspective, the findings suggest that macroeconomic policies focused on institutional quality, openness and healthcare as critical components of economic complexity should be crucial goals, especially for low and middle-income countries.

JEL Classification: O11, O43, I15, I25.
The Impact of Student-Centered Teaching Strategies on Educational Attainment in Econometrics: Evidence From the UK
Authors: Shah Imran Hussain , Au Yong Lyn Audrey , Morlet Guillaume Maxence Augustin , Rageth Ladina
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the impact of student-centered teaching strategies (SCTS) on the educational attainment of econometrics students, at a university based in the UK. Theoretical foundations underlying the usage of SCTS suggest that SCTS is better for students’ long-term recall, comprehension, problem-solving abilities and interest in the subject. Yet, most existing studies have only examined short-run outcomes, and none in technical social-science fields. We contribute to the literature by empirically analyzing whether SCTS affects the long-term learning outcomes for a STEM-related social-science subject like econometrics, by comparing the impact of SCTS with traditional teacher-centered strategies using a repeated cross-sectional sample spanning over four academic years. Our results provide robust evidence that SCTS is positively associated with students’ grades in the long run. Heterogeneity analyzes additionally indicate that female students and those in the upper quantiles of the grade-distribution disproportionately benefit more from SCTS.
Factors Influencing Ethical Behavior Among Chinese Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Jingwei Zhang , Shuhao Lin , Xuebei Wang , Haoxin Kong , Xinyue Zhao , Jing Lei , Mingxia Li
Published: April 2024

Learning how to effectively respond to ethical dilemma can affect nurses’ physical and mental health, which is not conducive to developing a nursing career. Nursing students’ ethical behavior warrants attention as professionals about to begin clinical work. We aim to understand the current situation and influencing factors of Chinese nursing students’ ethical behavior. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. Full-time nursing students were recruited from an undergraduate medical university in Jinan through convenient sampling from November to December 2021. Research ethics approval (No. 2022-0018) was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Informed consent was also received from participants. The EBT scores of the nursing students were 95.14 ± 11.37, which was not high compared with the total score. Gender, year level, and professional values had a significant impact on participants’ ethical behavior. A positive correlation was found between nursing professional values and ethical behavior. A gap still exists between the moral development and maturity of undergraduate nursing students. To further cultivate their ethical behavior and improve their confidence and ability to respond to ethical dilemmas, more innovative methods must be employed in teaching ethics courses, and continuity in the ethics education system must be maintained. For male and third- and fourth-year nursing students who showed lower ethical behavior scores, nursing educators can develop their ethical behaviors by helping them establish positive professional values.
State of Research on German Retirement Migration to Turkiye: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Fischer Andreas , Alnatour Jalal , Seeberger Bernd
Published: April 2024

Background: The Alanya region on Turkey’s southern coast has become an important destination for German retirement migration. Objective: Identify research studies on German retirement migration to Turkey which deal with the life situation, the motives, the handling of critical life situations in the context of retirement migration, and the reasons for return migration. Methods: The researcher conducted a qualitative systematic literature review from January 2021 to May 2021 in MEDLINE, CINAHL Complete, and APA PsychInfo. Results: Eleven studies on German and European retirement migration to Turkey were included after a critical assessment based on defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Motives for retirement migration are climatic, scenic, cultural advantages and the lower cost of living in Turkey. Conclusion: It has been found that most of the studies are thematically narrowly defined, detailed studies deal with and describe the development of retirement migration in a more general way.
Being a Newly Qualified Nurse: A Nordic Focus Group Study
Authors: Tast Anette , Kasén Anne , Bölenius Karin , Hilli Yvonne
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The transition to working life as a newly qualified nurse (NQN) can be challenging, leading to heightened stress levels. While NQNs are generally enthusiastic about starting their careers, they often express concerns about various responsibilities and a perceived lack of experience in independently dealing with clinical care in complex environments.

Objective

To acquire an in-depth understanding, from a caring science perspective, of what it means to be an NQN during the transition period of the first 18 months in the profession.

Methods

This study relied on an exploratory qualitative design. The methodological approach followed Gadamer's hermeneutic philosophy. Six focus group interviews were conducted in northern Norway (n = 3) and northern Sweden (n = 3) from January through May 2021. The interpretation of the data was inspired by Fleming et al. Nineteen female and seven male NQNs working in different contexts, including hospitals and municipalities, participated in the study. The consolidated criteria for qualitative research were used to report the results.

Results

Perspectives on NQNs are presented as three themes: a) the responsibility was perceived as a significant challenge, b) being a nurse is complex and demanding, and c) a desire for personal and professional development. Learning to be a nurse shouldering responsibility necessitates support and guidance from caring and compassionate colleagues and leaders.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the importance of creating a workplace culture where NQNs’ learning is promoted and supported by designated mentors during their transition to working life. The responsibilities should be aligned with their level of knowledge. It is important that leaders hold developmental dialogues and ensure a career plan for NQNs to continuously develop their knowledge and skills. Intervention studies designed to evaluate the meaning of the support from appointed mentors within structured mentorship programs are needed.
Creating inequality in access to public transit? Densification, gentrification, and displacement
Authors: Lutz Elena , Wicki Michael , Kaufmann David
Published: April 2024

Densification is a key concept in contemporary urban planning. Yet, there are widespread concerns about densification causing displacement and gentrification. This paper examines densification around train stations—a prevalent form of transit-oriented development (TOD) in cities with established public transit systems—in the Canton of Zurich, Switzerland. We assess the effects of densification around train stations on the socioeconomic population composition in these areas and investigate three different potential displacement effects. Leveraging 1.8 million linked person-housing unit observations for all individuals within our study perimeter, we provide a more nuanced understanding of densification’s effects on the population composition and displacement than prior research. Our findings reveal that even though densification increases the absolute number of low-income residents, it primarily benefits middle- and high-income households. Specifically, there is a decline in the share of low-income residents, attributed to the influx of younger high-income individuals. Moreover, incumbent low-income residents experience an increased risk of direct displacement due to housing demolitions. These outcomes highlight the limitations of TOD strategies in mitigating persistent socioeconomic disparities in public transit access, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive measures to address the challenges of equitable housing and public transit accessibility.
The impact of the COVID-19 measures on the lives of unaccompanied refugee minors
Authors: Trenson Roman , Vanderfaeillie Johan , Verheyden Camille , Trogh Lenny , Van Holen Frank
Published: April 2024

Background: Recent research found that the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures to contain it had a largely negative impact on well-being. In addition, a vast number of studies have shown significantly increased levels of traumatization and behavioural problems amongst URM, pointing out the vulnerability of this population. This study aimed at evaluating both the adaptive functioning and life satisfaction of URM, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on life satisfaction. Methods:101 URM completed the questionnaires. Results: URM had higher levels of trauma symptoms (t(100) = 8.69; p < .001) and more behavioural problems (t(100) = 6.83; p < .001) as compared to Belgian peers. Nevertheless, we did find higher levels of resilience (t(100) = 2.33; p < .05) amongst our sample. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted both experiences and satisfaction across all life domains. Conclusions: These findings all point out that the development of URM is at risk even after arrival in the host country and that the likelihood of mental health problems is high also in the host country. Offering professional mental healthcare and facilitating social bonds and integration is important. In addition, given the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on wellbeing, extra attention and support should go out to more vulnerable populations, such as URM, during times of (inter)national crisis.
The violent construction of silence(s): The case of targeted killings in North Waziristan, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Faryal
Published: April 2024

The threat of recurrence of violence remains a protracted concern in post-conflict contexts. This article contributes to the literature on post-conflict violence by analyzing a specific phenomenon that has characterized North Waziristan: the “Taliban target killing campaign” of civilians. The article argues that the targeted killings in (post-conflict) North Waziristan are a pre-mediated and calculated strategy employed by the militants to create space for their resurgence by silencing dissent through extortion, threats and killing of the locals. Exploring post-conflict violence, the article draws attention to the application of de-securitization in North Waziristan where “silent institutional” de-securitizations (i.e., state silence) are adopted to maintain the post-conflict fragile peace to prevent the risk of slippage into re-securitization. In explicating this, the article contributes by identifying three forms of silences: (i) silencing (by killing), (ii) state silence, and (iii) strategic silence. Doing so also helps to elaborate the function, meaning, and consequence of silence(s) in post-conflict contexts.
Long-Term Outcomes of Nitrous Oxide Cryoballoon Ablation of Barrett’s Esophagus-Associated Early Adenocarcinoma After Attempted Curative Endoscopic Mucosal Resection
Authors: Almario Jose Antonio , Swei Eric , Finney Amanda Grace , Canto Marcia Irene
Published: April 2024

Objective:

Nitrous oxide cryoballoon ablation (CBA) is an effective therapy for Barrett’s esophagus (BE). Data regarding the efficacy of CBA for complete eradication of BE-associated intramucosal adenocarcinoma (ImCA) after endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) are limited. Our aim is to determine the eradication rates of CBA for ImCA after unsuccessful attempted EMR.

Methods:

In this retrospective study we analyzed data from the electronic medical record of patients with ImCA who were treated with CBA as primary or rescue ablative therapy at a tertiary care academic center between July 2014 and September 2022. The primary outcome was complete eradication of ImCA (CE-CA). Secondary outcomes included eradication rate of intestinal metaplasia, recurrence rate of cancer and intestinal metaplasia, cancer-related morality, and disease-specific survival.

Results:

Thirty-five patients were included in the study. Group 1: 23 patients with EMR with positive margins. Group 2: 12 patients with unlocalized biopsy-proven ImCA. The median pre-CBA Prague C and M were 2 cm (SD ± 3.6) and 4.0 cm (SD ± 4). 21 (91%) patients in Group 1 achieved CE-CA within 1 year after a median 3 (IQR 2) CBA sessions. BE-CA related mortality was zero. There were no cases of recurrent intraluminal or extraluminal CA. 32 patients achieved and maintained CE-CA, while 23 (65.7%) achieved CE-IM by year 1.

Conclusion:

In our cohort, CBA was safe and effective for cancer and intestinal metaplasia eradication up to 5 years from initial treatment. Prospective studies are needed to assess the role of CBA in endoscopic therapy of early esophageal cancer.
Assessment of Solar-Driven Green Generation Potential in Renewable Energy Development: Global Forecasts аnd Opportunities for Ukraine
Authors: Ostapenko Olga
Published: April 2024

The study assessed the prospects of solar green generation in the context of modern trends in the development of renewable energy in the world, taking into account the forecast estimates of world energy agencies in the perspective of 2030–2060. Global and European aggregated data for three simulated scenarios of energy and climate policy (STEPS, APS, NZE) in terms of the use of solar photovoltaic technologies and technologies of solar energy concentration up to 2030–2050 were evaluated. It was determined that by 2060 for the European Union, according to the “EU Basic Scenario”, the following will be ensured: increase in energy production using solar photovoltaic technologies to the value of 876 PJ; almost four-fold increase in the volume of energy production using solar energy concentration technologies to a value of 566 PJ; it is planned to gradually increase the amount of electricity production, using solar photovoltaic technologies, to the value of 243 TWh; more than a fivefold increase in electricity production will be ensured using solar energy concentration technologies to a value of 58 TWh; it is planned to gradually increase the electrical capacity of installations based on solar photovoltaic technologies to the value of 195 GW; will provide more than a fourfold increase in the electrical capacity of installations based on solar energy concentration technologies to a value of 17 GW. The volumes of solar green generation will be approximately 30 to 50% of the total generation of energy from renewable sources in the foreseeable future, mainly due to the use of solar PV generation, which will lead to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Expansion of solar generation for Ukraine should be considered as a means of overcoming the energy crisis and increasing the environmental and energy security of the generating capacities of the Ukrainian energy industry.
Composition and paragenesis of daqingshanite from the Kamthai carbothermalite, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Mitchell Roger H.
Published: April 2024

Daqingshanite in the Kamthai REE deposit (India) occurs as two paragenetic types: primary granular coarse grained crystals coexisting with primary carbocernaite, baryte and bastnäsite; and as aligned micro-ovoid globules within clasts of Sr-bearing calcite. Carbocernaite forming trellis-type lamellae in some of these calcite clasts do not represent exsolution and are considered as replacement textures as they formed subsequent to daqingshanite. The origins of the textural relations of the microglobules of daqingshanite to their host Sr-calcite cannot be unambiguously determined, although an exsolution origin is not considered feasible. The textures are similar to those of ‘chalcopyrite disease’ and as such could be interpreted as replacement features formed in a low temperature carbothermal environment which should facilitate replacement. Given that daqingshanite is an early crystallising phase it is also possible that cotectic crystallisation with Sr-calcite occurred, followed by subsolidus re-equilibration with recrystallisation along specific crystallographic planes in the calcite. The Kamthai REE deposit is best described as a low temperature carbothermalite microbreccia consisting of a wide variety of clasts resulting from the autobrecciation of rocks formed during, and after, the magmatic to carbothermal transition of an undetermined parental calcite carbonatite-forming magma. Many clasts have been replaced by late stage La-enriched carbothermal fluids mixed with exogenous water during the final low-temperature stage of evolution of the deposit.
The burden attributable to primary headache disorders in children and adolescents in Ethiopia: estimates from a national schools-based study
Authors: Zewde Yared Zenebe , Zebenigus Mehila , Demissie Hanna , Tekle-Haimanot Redda , Uluduz Derya , Şaşmaz Tayyar , Bozdag Fatma , Steiner Timothy J
Published: April 2024

Background

We previously reported high prevalences of headache disorders among children (6–11 years) and adolescents (12–17 years) in Ethiopia. Here we provide data on headache-attributed burden collected contemporaneously from the same study participants. Part of the global schools-based programme within the Global Campaign against Headache, the study is the first to present such data from sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey following the generic protocol for the global study was conducted in six schools (urban and rural), in Addis Ababa city and three regions of Ethiopia. The child or adolescent versions of the Headache-Attributed Restriction, Disability, Social Handicap and Impaired Participation (HARDSHIP) structured questionnaires were self-completed under supervision by pupils in class. Headache diagnostic questions were based on ICHD-3 beta but for the inclusion of undifferentiated headache (UdH).

Results

Of 2,349 eligible participants, 2,344 completed the questionnaires (1,011 children [43.1%], 1,333 adolescents [56.9%]; 1,157 males [49.4%], 1,187 females [50.6%]; participating proportion 99.8%). Gender- and age-adjusted 1-year prevalence of headache, reported previously, was 72.8% (migraine: 38.6%; tension-type headache [TTH]: 19.9%; UdH: 12.3%; headache on ≥ 15 days/month (H15+): 1.2%). Mean headache frequency was 2.6 days/4 weeks but, with mean duration of 2.7 h, mean proportion of time with headache was only 1.0% (migraine: 1.4%; TTH: 0.7%; H15+: 9.1%). Mean intensity was 1.8 on a scale of 1–3. Symptomatic medication was consumed on about one third of headache days across headache types. Lost school time reportedly averaged 0.7 days over the preceding 4 weeks, representing 3.5% of school time, but was 2.4 days/4 weeks (12.0%) in the important small minority with H15+. However, actual absences with headache the day before indicated averages overall of 9.7% of school time lost, and 13.3% among those with migraine. Emotional impact and quality-of-life scores reflected other measures of burden, with clear adverse impact gradients (H15 + > migraine > TTH > UdH).

Conclusions

The high prevalence of headache among children and adolescents in Ethiopia, who represent half its population, is associated with substantial burden. Lost school time is probably the most important consequence. Estimates suggest a quite deleterious effect, likely to be reflected in both individual prospects and the prosperity of society.
An AI-based multiphase framework for improving the mechanical ventilation availability in emergency departments during respiratory disease seasons: a case study
Authors: Ortiz-Barrios Miguel , Petrillo Antonella , Arias-Fonseca Sebastián , McClean Sally , de Felice Fabio , Nugent Chris , Uribe-López Sheyla-Ariany
Published: April 2024

Background

Shortages of mechanical ventilation have become a constant problem in Emergency Departments (EDs), thereby affecting the timely deployment of medical interventions that counteract the severe health complications experienced during respiratory disease seasons. It is then necessary to count on agile and robust methodological approaches predicting the expected demand loads to EDs while supporting the timely allocation of ventilators. In this paper, we propose an integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Discrete-event Simulation (DES) to design effective interventions ensuring the high availability of ventilators for patients needing these devices.

Methods

First, we applied Random Forest (RF) to estimate the mechanical ventilation probability of respiratory-affected patients entering the emergency wards. Second, we introduced the RF predictions into a DES model to diagnose the response of EDs in terms of mechanical ventilator availability. Lately, we pretested two different interventions suggested by decision-makers to address the scarcity of this resource. A case study in a European hospital group was used to validate the proposed methodology.

Results

The number of patients in the training cohort was 734, while the test group comprised 315. The sensitivity of the AI model was 93.08% (95% confidence interval, [88.46 − 96.26%]), whilst the specificity was 85.45% [77.45 − 91.45%]. On the other hand, the positive and negative predictive values were 91.62% (86.75 − 95.13%) and 87.85% (80.12 − 93.36%). Also, the Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) curve plot was 95.00% (89.25 − 100%). Finally, the median waiting time for mechanical ventilation was decreased by 17.48% after implementing a new resource capacity strategy.

Conclusions

Combining AI and DES helps healthcare decision-makers to elucidate interventions shortening the waiting times for mechanical ventilators in EDs during respiratory disease epidemics and pandemics.