bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting and Financial Reporting Development Strategy: Analysis of Key Areas in Focus of Information Transparency
Authors: Safonova Irina
Published: January 2025

The article raises current issues of conceptual development of financial reporting of domestic companies in the paradigm of an integrated information business ecosystem. An analysis of key changes envisaged in the framework of state policy in the field of accounting and financial reporting until 2030 is carried out in the context of increasing the information transparency of economic entities. In order to further develop the «basic set of standards», proposals are formulated for the development of federal accounting standards «Evaluation in Accounting» and «Estimated Values». «Significant gaps» in the Chart of Accounts are identified in connection with the introduction of new Federal Acoounting Standards, clarification or obsolescence of individual accounting objects. The necessity of expanding the objects of accounting and financial reporting indicators that correspond to the nature and level of development of the management system of the digital economy of sustainable development and the interests of participants in civil turnover is substantiated.
Monetary Policy of Russia in 2025-2027
Authors: Smirnov E.
Published: January 2025

The main goal of Russia’s monetary policy in the coming three years of 2025-2027, according to the Constitution of the Russian Federation, will be to protect and ensure the stability of the ruble by maintaining price stability in the interests of continuing the country’s economic growth and implementing national development plans defined by the President of the Russian Federation for the coming years.
Consensus in tax relations as a factor in ensuring fiscal sustainability
Authors: Ksenda Viktoriya
Published: January 2025

Taxes are one of the main sources of income for the state, therefore, effective management of tax relations is of great importance for achieving financial stability and economic development. The author tested the tax system using the «black box» and «white box» method, which made it possible to identify external parameters for the budget system and internal parameters for the development of the tax system. It is proved that the fiscal function of taxes has become more effective due to the automation of taxation processes and interaction.
MODERN MODELS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT ROUTE SYSTEM IN MEGACITIES AND PROBLEMS OF USING CHINESE EXPERIENCE OF THEIR IMPLEMENTATION IN RUSSIA
Authors: Lin' Nan' , Bubnova G.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the issues of building a public transport’ rational route system in big urban agglomerations on the basis of a comparative analysis in the Moscow and Beijing mega-cities’ systems. It is notes the superiority of the metropolis public transport networks (MPTNs) route system model implemented in China. The integration and synchronization of various types of public transport work in the united territory of different administrative units is fully implemented in China. An assessment of different types of public transport current state was carried out, problematic issues that need to be solved in Russia for the transition to a more advanced 4th MPTNs model were identified.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO IMPROVE THE EFFICIENCY OF ACTIVITIES IN THE FIELD OF RAILWAY TRANSPORT IN THE CONTEXT OF THE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE INDUSTRY
Authors: Macheret D.
Published: January 2025

The article discusses opportunities to increase the efficiency of railway transport activities, opened by the use of digital technologies. It has been concluded that digitalization has a positive impact on the quality of services provided to shippers and that it is necessary to actively use digital tools to solve the strategic tasks of the industry.
Data-Driven Inventory Control and Integrated Employee Involvement for Special Buys at ALDI SÜD Germany
Authors: Tschan Alex , Hetzel Lars , Eisinger Ralf , Eggen Carolin , Heuser Claudia , Fritz Victoria
Published: January 2025

ALDI SÜD Germany launched a data-driven project with solutions to optimize product ordering and inventory clearance across the product life cycle, integrating employee engagement for special buy products. This initiative has significantly improved efficiency, saved millions, and supports 40,000 employees in daily operations.
Evaluating Efficacy and Safety of Crisaborole in Managing Childhood Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: You Jianhua , Li Huanmei , Wang Zhongyun , Zhao Yunfei
Published: January 2025

Aims/Background Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder globally. Crisaborole, a nonsteroidal topical phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor (PDE4i), has been utilized in treating AD. Crisaborole regulates the production of inflammatory cytokines, which are usually overactive among AD patients. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of crisaborole in treating AD in patients aged ≤18 years.

Methods A literature search was performed across PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. The inclusion criteria involved primary studies evaluating the effect of crisaborole in treating dermatitis, articles exploring the use of crisaborole in AD patients below 18 years (>two years), and articles published in English between 2000 and 2022. However, the studies evaluating AD in adult patients, those reporting treatments other than crisaborole, those published before 2000, and articles written in languages other than English were excluded from this analysis. Furthermore, secondary data sources such as case reports, newspaper articles, magazines, and other systematic reviews and meta-analyses were excluded. A meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4. The risk of bias in the manuscripts was assessed using the Cochrane tool. The I-square test statistic was used to determine heterogeneity, and Egger’s test was used to evaluate publication bias.

Results Ten studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Most of the studies exhibited a low risk of bias with no publication bias. Meta-analysis indicated a significant difference in the number of patients attaining Investigator Static Global Assessment (ISGA) success at day 29, with significantly higher patients in the crisaborole group than in the vehicle group (odds ratio (OR) 1.56, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.96; I2 = 77%; p = 0.0001). Similarly, pruritus improvement was significant between the two cohorts at day 29, indicating significantly higher heterogeneity (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.10 to 2.63; I2 = 91%; p = 0.02). Furthermore, the safety profiling of the treatments was insignificant, demonstrating no statistical difference in the treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) between the two groups with high heterogeneity (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.14 to 1.98; I2 = 99%; p = 0.35).

Conclusion Crisaborole demonstrates substantial efficacy in treating mild to moderate AD compared to vehicle therapies, as it reduces the signs and symptoms of the disease. Furthermore, crisaborole is well tolerated and has an acceptable safety profile in treating mild to moderate AD patients.
Prediction of implant failure risk due to periprosthetic femoral fracture after primary elective total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Abdulhadi Alagha M. , Cobb Justin , Liddle Alexander D. , Malchau Henrik , Rolfson Ola , Mohaddes Maziar
Published: January 2025

Aims

While cementless fixation offers potential advantages over cemented fixation, such as a shorter operating time, concerns linger over its higher cost and increased risk of periprosthetic fractures. If the risk of fracture can be forecasted, it would aid the shared decision-making process related to cementless stems. Our study aimed to develop and validate predictive models of periprosthetic femoral fracture (PPFF) necessitating revision and reoperation after elective total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

We included 154,519 primary elective THAs from the Swedish Arthroplasty Register (SAR), encompassing 21 patient-, surgical-, and implant-specific features, for model derivation and validation in predicting 30-day, 60-day, 90-day, and one-year revision and reoperation due to PPFF. Model performance was tested using the area under the curve (AUC), and feature importance was identified in the best-performing algorithm.

Results

The Lasso regression excelled in predicting 30-day revisions (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) = 0.85), while the Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM) model outperformed other models by a slight margin for all remaining endpoints (AUC range: 0.79 to 0.86). Predictive factors for revision and reoperation were identified, with patient features such as increasing age, higher American Society of Anesthesiologists grade (> III), and World Health Organization obesity classes II to III associated with elevated risks. A preoperative diagnosis of idiopathic necrosis increased revision risk. Concerning implant design, factors such as cementless femoral fixation, reverse-hybrid fixation, hip resurfacing, and small (< 35 mm) or large (> 52 mm) femoral heads increased both revision and reoperation risks.

Conclusion

This is the first study to develop machine-learning models to forecast the risk of PPFF necessitating secondary surgery. Future studies are required to externally validate our algorithm and assess its applicability in clinical practice.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2025;14(1):46–57.
Advertising Industry Self-Regulation: An Interview with Eric D. Reicin of BBB National Programs
Authors: Richards Jef I. , Reicin Eric D.
Published: January 2025

Abstract: In this discussion, law and advertising scholar Jef I. Richards of Michigan State University and Eric D. Reicin, President and CEO of BBB National Programs, explore the ins and outs of industry self-regulation. A nonprofit organization, BBB National Programs strives to create consumer trust and fair competition by setting guidelines and resolving disagreements outside the courtroom. Its programs are many as they cover different areas of business: truth in advertising, protecting children, privacy, emerging technology, arbitrating disputes, monitoring industry, and educating about industry self-regulation. The participants discuss some past, current, and future cases which illustrate the value of these self-regulation programs, with a focus on the conversation in the advertising industry.
Remixing Gender in Advertising: A Qualitative Study of Early Adolescents’ Views of Gender Targeting in LEGO Commercials
Authors: Scharrer Erica , Durrani Alina Ali , Suren Nora
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Young media users see a number of commercial messages each day that are carefully crafted to be attention-getting and appealing. Advertisers sometimes rely on gender stereotypes when marketing toys to children, making assumptions about who wants to buy or play with what product. In the current study, the researchers led a sample of 58 sixth-grade students in an exercise in which the audio component of LEGO commercials marketed to boys was played over the video component of LEGO commercials marketed to girls and vice versa. Researchers then drew qualitative data from students’ written responses to questions about how the commercials target boys and girls differently and what messages that targeting is sending to kids. Results indicate that participants of all genders considered production components of the commercials as well as how characters are depicted in their critiques of these gendered advertising practices targeted at young people.
Archaeology and Catholic Things
Authors: Masur Laura E.
Published: January 2025

Abstract: From rosaries and relics to resting places, material things and places have long been central to Catholic modes of prayer and veneration. This essay reflects on recent literature about Catholic materiality, as derived from the fields of archaeology and material culture studies. Focused on understanding the past and present through material evidence, studies show how beliefs, values, and spiritual experiences are encoded in Catholic sacra (holy things and places). Moreover, lived experience associated with Catholicism can be interpreted through the contextual analysis of everyday practices: religion shaped regional culinary traditions, medical practices, the design of yard spaces, and forms of bodily adornment. Thematically, this review addresses Protestant and Catholic attitudes toward material culture, ways that immigrants navigated devotional and political identities, European/Indigenous hybridity, postcoloniality, object agency and animism, and reconciliation through cemetery projects.
Bricks and Tiles as Lived Objects at Jesuit Missions
Authors: Lenik Stephan T.
Published: January 2025

Abstract: Material culture and architecture have played an important role in sustaining Catholic communities in the United States and globally. Archaeologists' discussions of institutions emphasize how material objects contribute to institutions across time and space by providing the permanence and simplicity of message which can work across cultures. The material manifestations of the Catholic Church can be divided into sacred "inscribed" objects and common, everyday "lived" objects. This paper considers the role of "lived" objects in maintaining social control at missions by looking to archaeological evidence of ceramic architectural materials, specifically bricks and tiles, from English Jesuit missions in Maryland and French Jesuit missions in the Caribbean and South America from the seventeenth to the twentieth century. Bricks and tiles typically occur in repeatable forms with subtle variations in appearance, color, and texture and are preserved in the archaeological record. Approaching these material culture types through a comparative study in two regions considers how architectural materials contributed to the durability of the Church as these objects enabled both commonality and variation across Catholic mission properties.
Increasing the spatial bandwidth product in light field microscopy with remote scanning
Authors: Bazin Aymerick , Badon Amaury
Published: January 2025

Achieving fast, large-scale volumetric imaging with micrometer resolution has been a persistent challenge in biological microscopy. To address this challenge, we report an augmented version of light field microscopy, incorporating a motorized tilting mirror upstream of the camera. Depending on the scanning pattern, the field of view and/or the lateral resolution can be greatly improved. Our microscope technique is simple, versatile, and configured for bright-field and epifluorescence modes. We demonstrate its performance with imaging of multi-cellular aggregates of various shapes and sizes.
Demonstration of a nearly refractive index-matched diffractive optical element with large fabrication tolerance by a microfabrication technology
Authors: Dai Xingang , Niu Bowen , Hu Yanjun , Dai Qun , Ao Yu , Fan Guofang
Published: January 2025

Nearly refractive index-matched diffractive optical elements (DOEs) are receiving increasing attention due to large fabrication tolerance. This study presents a nearly refractive index-matched DOEs with a refractive index difference of 0.028. A simple and high-precision microfabrication technology is developed. The fabrication tolerance of DOEs is 117.8 nm for a uniformity deviation of 3.46%, which demonstrates 23 times better fabrication tolerance compared with the other reports.
Laser diode driver for a high-power vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser
Authors: Li Yang , Li Chuanchuan , Wei Xin
Published: January 2025

This Letter proposed a novel, to the best of our knowledge, laser diode driver design principle for high-power vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) arrays. Based on the electrical characteristics of VCSEL arrays, a new VCSEL driver was designed with voltage-control and current-monitor mechanism instead of conventional constant-current modulation by MOSFET. Heat from the modulation MOSFET was minimized so that high current, heavy duty cycle, and high average power from the laser diode driver can be achieved. CW, long-pulsed, and QCW driver designs were lately discussed and specific circuit architectures were provided. The driver design was then verified through experiment and burn-in test. This novel VCSEL driver principle provides a very simple, reliable, and economical solution for high-power VCSEL arrays or stacks. It can be widely used for industrial heating, solid-state pumping, medical treatments, and many other applications in the future.
Targeted distribution of long-lasting insecticidal nets by community health workers to sustain household coverage: A pilot feasibility study in Western Uganda
Authors: Gunderson Annika K. , Mbusa Rapheal , Baguma Emmanuel , Ayebare Emmanuel , Giandomenico Dana , Reyes Raquel , Ntaro Moses , Mulogo Edgar M. , Boyce Ross M.
Published: January 2025

Universal coverage is defined by the World Health Organization as 1 long-lasting insecticidal net (LLIN) for 2 people in a household. While Uganda has been a leader in the distribution of LLINs, there are concerns regarding the longevity of LLINs. The main aim of this study was to address the LLIN coverage gap that emerges in the period after mass distribution campaigns through the implementation of a novel LLIN distribution strategy utilizing the existing community healthcare worker (CHW) infrastructure. We conducted a pilot feasibility study in two villages randomized to be the control or intervention. CHWs in both villages carried out their regular duties and calculated household eligibility to receive LLINs, classified as having a child under five positive for malaria and being below universal coverage. Only CHWs in the intervention village distributed LLINs to eligible households to reach universal coverage. Summary statistics were calculated for intervention implementation and malaria outcomes. Structured interviews were conducted with CHWs to assess burden and community acceptability of the intervention. Of the children evaluated by the CHWs, 102 of 169 (60.3%) and 112 of 171 (65.5%) were tested for malaria, of which 62 (60.7%) and 71 (63.3%) tested positive in the intervention and control villages, respectively. Only three households were at universal coverage. There was an increase from 4.0% to 6.5% of households meeting universal coverage in the intervention village, compared to a decrease from 7.8% to 1.8% in the control village after the follow-up period. There was an increase in the number of children under the age of 5 who slept under an LLIN the previous night from 15.7% to 31.6% in the intervention village compared to a decrease in the control village from 29.1% to 10.5%. No CHWs reported an increased burden from the intervention and all reported favorable opinions. Our pilot study demonstrates the feasibility and acceptability of targeted LLIN distributions leveraging the existing structure to supplement national distribution campaigns in Uganda. Overall, this work highlights the critical need for novel approaches to sustain LLIN coverage between distribution campaigns, particularly towards the end of the 3-year cycle.
Clinical and economic burden of varicella in pediatric patients hospitalized in four institutions in Guatemala
Authors: Melgar Mario , Sajmolo Ingrid , Chocó André , Ortiz Lidia , Cordova Ana Gabriela , Hernández Luis , Rivera Irwing , Zuñiga Ashly , Beltrán Claudia , Medina Sebastian , Marcano-Lozada Marcel
Published: January 2025

Varicella presents a public health challenge in Guatemala, with limited evidence regarding its impact; vaccine is currently absent from the national immunization program. Generating local data on the economic and health burden can support immunization policies. This study describes the use of hospital resources, costs of care, clinical and demographic characteristics, and complications in children with varicella. A retrospective review of medical records from patients admitted in four public institutions in Guatemala between January 2015 and December 2019, with diagnosis of varicella was performed. A total of 124 hospitalized patients, aged 0 to 14 years, were analyzed, of whom 46% had cancer. The average cost of hospitalization was USD 3,793.24 for complicated cases and USD 1,131.11 for uncomplicated cases. The average hospital stay was 11 days for patients with complications and 5 days for those without complications. In total, 66.1% of patients presented complications, with related infection complications being the most common. In conclusion, hospitalizations for varicella impose a significant economic and clinical burden in Guatemala. Complications increase the cost of care by three times, highlighting the importance of considering the inclusion of the varicella vaccine in the National Immunization Program to prevent the disease.
The status of China’s international division of labour from Marx’s theory of international value
Authors: Ouyang Hui , Chen Huaibing , Lam Johnny Fat Iam , Li Xianke
Published: January 2025

Based on Marx’s theory of international value, this paper analyzes the carrier of unequal exchange and the path of international transfer of surplus value, constructs an international division of labour status index by comprehensively observing the organic composition of capital in the export and import sectors, and tries to accurately grasp the characteristics of the current international division of labour pattern coexisting between horizontal products and vertical products. At the same time, based on the data of all available HS92 six-digit code categories in various countries in the world from 1993 to 2016, the level of international division of labour in China is empirically analysed. The results show that: (1) there is no breakthrough in the situation of China’s low status of international division of labour; (2) the high capital-organic composition of the import sector is the main reason for the low status of international division of labour; (3) the continuous decline in the absolute value of captured surplus is a global phenomenon; (4) WTO accession has not significantly improved the status of international division of labour. Finally, the idea of improving the status of international division of labour through the development of domestic regional cooperation is put forward.
First report of MDR virulent Pseudomonas aeruginosa in apparently healthy Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) in Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Alamgir , Ahmmed Md. Tanjir , Prapti Bushra Benta Rahman , Rahman Aminur , Islam Tasnim , Chouhan Chandra Shaker , Rahman A. K. M. Anisur , Siddique Mahbubul Pratik
Published: January 2025

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) is a major pathogen associated conditions like septicaemia, respiratory disorders, and diarrhoea in poultry, particularly in Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica). The infection causes huge economical losses due to its high transmissibility, mortality and zoonotic potential. This study aimed to isolate, identify, detect virulence genes, and profile multidrug resistance (MDR) of P. aeruginosa from Japanese quail. Oral and rectal swabs were collected from 110 apparently healthy quail birds across various districts in Bangladesh. Bacterial isolation and identification were performed using cultural, morphological, biochemical, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods. Antibiotic susceptibility was assessed using the disc diffusion method, and virulence genes were detected through PCR. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for P. aeruginosa infection. Both conventional and PCR methods revealed that 25 (22.73%) of the quail birds were positive for P. aeruginosa. The results showed that quail birds in Narsingdi were five times more likely to harbor Pseudomonas species (OR: 5.02; 95% CI: 1.34–18.84) compared to those in Mymensingh Sadar. Additionally, quail birds younger than eight weeks had nearly six times higher odds (OR: 5.93; 95% CI: 1.96–17.91) of carrying Pseudomonas compared to older birds. Female quail birds had almost four times higher odds (OR: 3.77; 95% CI: 1.30–10.93) of harboring Pseudomonas species than males. All 25 P. aeruginosa isolates exhibited multi drug-resistance (MDR) patterns. Virulence gene analysis revealed the consistent presence of exoA and rhlR in all isolates, while exoS, exoY, rhlI, and rhlAB showed variable distribution. The high prevalence of MDR and virulent P. aeruginosa in apparently healthy quail birds particularly in Mymensingh and Dhaka divisions, highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive ‘One Health’ approach to proactively address and mitigate the potential risk this organism poses to both quail and human populations.
Factors associated with Catastrophic Healthcare Expenditure in communities of Lagos Nigeria: A Megacity experience
Authors: Wright Kikelomo Ololade , Adeniran Adeyinka , Aderibigbe Adedayo , Akinyemi Olufunsho , Fagbemi Temiloluwa , Ayodeji Omoyeni , Adepase Biola , Zamba Emmanuella , Abdurrazzaq Hussein , Oniyire Faith , Ogboye Olusegun , Abayomi Akin
Published: January 2025

Background

Each year, millions of people in low—and middle-income countries such as Nigeria are forced into poverty and financial ruin due to out-of-pocket (OOP) healthcare expenses. Our study assessed the prevalence and determinants of Catastrophic Healthcare Expenditure (CHE) experienced by households in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods

A descriptive community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted on 2492 households in Lagos from December 2022 to March 2023 in 4 Local Government Areas (LGAs) using a multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaires, and analysis was performed using STATA 15.0 software. Univariate, bivariate, and binary logistic regression analyses were conducted with statistical significance set at p<0.05, and a 95% Confidence Interval was calculated for the adjusted odds ratio (OR).

Results

The study revealed that 15% of households experience catastrophic health expenditure (CHE). Gender, marital status, educational level, occupation, personal income, health perception, household location, and health insurance enrollment were significantly associated with CHE. Additionally, gender, religion, income, household location, and self-rated health status were significant predictors of household CHE, with adjusted odds ratios of 4.42, 2.45, 1.00, 1.07, and 1.69, respectively.

Conclusion

CHE is more prevalent among people with lower socio-economic status, urban residents, and those lacking health insurance. It is crucial to implement targeted initiatives to raise awareness about the benefits of health insurance and simplify the enrollment process for vulnerable groups, thereby alleviating the financial strain of healthcare expenses.
Interventions to improve health care provider implementation and patient adherence of patients to recommendations on geriatric assessment and management in older adults: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Freeman Laura , Smith Ainslee , Ku Nai-Wen , Ayala Ana Patricia , Bennie Fay , Berger Arielle , Chesney Tyler R. , Desforges Ploa , Haase Kristen , Jones Jennifer , Lacerte Annie , Mariano Caroline , Mehta Rajin , Menjak Ines , Monette Johanne , Norman Richard , Legacy Nicholas , Antonio Maryjo , Pitters Eric , Stephens Anne , Stephens Douglas , Wan-Chow-Wah Doreen , Wong Camilla L. , Alibhai Shabbir M.H. , Puts Martine
Published: January 2025

The world population is aging. Comprehensive Geriatric assessment (CGA) has been proven to improve the well-being of older adults. However, evidence suggests not all clinicians implement these recommendations in their practice; nor do all patients adhere to them. Currently, there is no up-to-date review of interventions that can improve older adults’ adherence to CGA recommendations and health care provider/clinician implementation of those recommendations. The objective of this scoping review protocol is to describe the methodology of the scoping review with the aim to identify interventions that have been tested to improve adherence to CGA recommendations. We will use the Arksey and O’Malley framework and subsequent extension by Levac and colleagues to complete the scoping review. We searched OVID MEDLINE, OVID Embase, EBSCO CINAHL, APA PsychInfo, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases from inception to November 14, 2024, and will include a review of reference lists of included studies. Studies eligible for inclusion are studies of any design that examined one or more interventions aiming to improve clinician implementation of and patient adherence to CGA in any clinical setting. We will use standard methods for study selection, data abstraction, assessment of methodological quality of individual studies, and data synthesis. Results will be analyzed and reported using descriptive numerical summaries and narrative analysis. Findings from the scoping review will be published in a manuscript and presented at scientific conferences.
Can strengthening digital infrastructure enhance productivity in the cultural industry? evidence from Tibet
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Du Qianqian , Ma Guihua , Gazang Caidan
Published: January 2025

This study, grounded in the Total Factor Productivity (TFP) theoretical framework, examines the impact of digital infrastructure on the productivity of Tibet’s cultural industry from 2011 to 2021. It aims to uncover how the innovative allocation of production factors can enhance new-quality productivity. The core aspect of new-quality productivity is the improvement of TFP, with digital infrastructure promoting the cultural industry’s development by optimizing industrial agglomeration, improving logistics efficiency, and reducing the urban-rural consumption gap. The findings suggest that while digital infrastructure leads to geographic dispersion of the industry—challenging traditional industrial agglomeration theory—it significantly enhances the efficiency of the cultural industry within Tibet’s unique socio-economic context. Moreover, despite the region’s geographical constraints on logistics efficiency, digital platforms effectively reduce the urban-rural consumption gap, improving market access and the quality of cultural services in remote areas. Additionally, digital infrastructure helps bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas, further fostering balanced regional consumption and digital inclusion. From a Total Factor Productivity perspective, this study reveals key pathways to improving new-quality productivity, offering both theoretical foundations for policymakers and practical guidance for the development of cultural industries in similarly structured regions.
The impact of The Quality and Safety Education (QSEN) program on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of junior nurses
Authors: AlRatrout Salam , Abu Khader Imad , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Asia Mohammed , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , Bani Hani Salam
Published: January 2025

Background

The quality and safety education for nurses (QSEN) competency program represents a valuable initiative in nursing practice and education, equipping nurses with the essential knowledge, attitude, and skills (KAS) required to deliver safe, efficient, and patient-centered care.

Purpose

This study aims to determine the impact of QSEN competency on the KAS of nurses in Palestine.

Method

A quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test design with two groups was used utilizing a questionnaire to collect data from 164 Junior nurses in two governmental hospitals within the period of 25th, January to the 10th February 2024. Patricia Benner’s theory suggests that a strong educational foundation and diverse experiences enable nurses to enhance their patient care knowledge and abilities over time.

Results

The findings indicate that nurses in Palestine can benefit from targeted interventions and QSEN educational programs aimed at improving their patient-centered care competence, as post-test scores show a significant rise over pre-test scores. Junior nurses who participated in the QSEN program experienced a 57% increase in knowledge, a 57% increase in skills, and a 64% increase in attitudes. The intervention significantly improved knowledge (77.02 vs. 49.19, p < 0.001), quality and safety skills (70.16 vs. 44.61, p < 0.001), and attitudes (75.47 vs. 46.16, p < 0.001) among participants post-procedure, indicating a substantial positive impact on these areas, demonstrating the effectiveness of the educational intervention.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that an educational intervention improves junior nurses’ KSAs for six QSEN competencies, leading to higher average scores in quality and safety competence subscales, thereby enhancing staff satisfaction, and reducing medical errors, and patient safety.
Impact of COVID-19 vaccination on hospitalization, hospital utilization and expenditure for COVID-19: A retrospective cohort analysis of a South African private health insured population
Authors: Solanki Geetesh , Cleary Susan , Little Francesca
Published: January 2025

This study quantifies the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on hospitalization for COVID-19 infection in a South African private health insurance population. This retrospective cohort study is based on the analysis of demographic and claims records for 550,332 individuals belonging to two health insurance funds between 1 March 2020 and 31 December 2022. A Cox Proportional Hazards model was used to estimate the impact of vaccination (non-vaccinated, partly vaccinated, fully vaccinated) on COVID-19 hospitalization risk; and zero-inflated negative binomial models were used to estimate the impact of vaccination on hospital utilization and hospital expenditure for COVID-19 infection, with adjustments for age, sex, comorbidities and province of residence. In comparison to the non-vaccinated, the hospitalization rate for COVID-19 was 94.51% (aHR 0.06, 95%CI 0.06, 0.07) and 93.49% (aHR 0.07, 95%CI 0.06, 0.07) lower for the partly and fully vaccinated respectively; hospital utilization was 17.70% (95% CI 24.78%, 9.95%) and 20.04% (95% CI 28.26%, 10.88%) lower; the relative risk of zero hospital days was 4.34 (95% CI 4.02, 4.68) and 18.55 (95% CI 17.12, 20.11) higher; hospital expenditure was 32.83% (95% CI 41.06%, 23.44%) and 55.29% (95% CI 61.13%, 48.57%) lower; and the relative risk of zero hospital expenditure was 4.38 (95% CI 4.06, 4.73) and 18.61 (95% CI 17.18, 20.16) higher for the partly and fully vaccinated respectively. Taken together, findings indicate that all measures of hospitalization for COVID-19 infection were significantly lower in the partly or fully vaccinated in comparison to the non-vaccinated. The use of real-world data and an aggregated level of analysis resulted in the study having several limitations. While the overall results may not be generalizable to other populations, the findings add to the evidence based on the impact of COVID-19 vaccination during the period of the pandemic.
Psychometric validation of the Cystic Fibrosis Impact Questionnaire (CF-IQ): A patient-reported outcome assessing impacts of cystic fibrosis
Authors: Serrano Daniel , Uzumcu Alyssa , Gerstein Maya , Ayasse Nicolai D. , Engstrom Ella , Barnes Frederick B. , Iaconangelo Charles , Thorat Teja , McGarry Lisa J. , Sermet-Gaudelus Isabelle
Published: January 2025

The Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Impact Questionnaire (CF-IQ) was qualitatively developed to assess the impact of CF in the context of treatment advancements and increased longevity. This study reports the CF-IQ validation. In this noninterventional validation study, people with CF completed the 40-item CF-IQ and validating patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) via electronic diaries at enrollment (baseline) and at the 4-week follow-up. Validation consisted of modern methods and focus groups to finalize structural validity, and classical methods to assess internal consistency [1–3], test-retest reliability [4,5], concurrent validity [5], and known-groups validity [5] of the CF-IQ. At baseline, 214 adults completed the survey; 193 completed the follow-up survey. Unidimensional item response theory (IRT) models were separately fit to 5 prespecified domains (Control and Burden of CF Treatment Impacts, Physical Activity Impacts, Social Activity Impacts, Emotional Impacts, and Work/School Limitation Impacts). IRT local dependence (LD) statistics identified 17 redundant items. Two independent CF-patient focus groups (14 total patients) confirmed these findings, and the 17 items were dropped. Each domain defined on the final 23 items achieved the criterion of exact model fit as measured by the root mean squared error of approximation (RMSEA, values = 0), Internal consistency (Cronbach’s α) values ranged from 0.81 to 0.89, 4 of 5 domains achieved acceptable test-retest reliability, with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) values ≥ 0.7, acceptable concurrent validity was achieved for all domains, and known-groups validity was established. The novel CF-IQ is a psychometrically robust PROM capturing patient-centric impacts of CF in the context of the current standard of care.
Effects of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (Ceylon cinnamon) extract on lipid profile, glucose levels and its safety in adults: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial
Authors: Muthukuda Dimuthu , de Silva Chamini Kanatiwela , Ajanthan Saumiyah , Wijesinghe Namal , Dahanayaka Anuradha , Pathmeswaran Arunasalam
Published: January 2025

Background

Cinnamon has been studied as a possible way to control blood glucose and serum cholesterol levels. However, there are no well-conducted randomized controlled trials that can accurately measure the lipid and glucose-lowering effects of Cinnamomum zeylanicum (C. zeylanicum) extract. This study primarily aimed to evaluate the effect of a standardized C. zeylanicum extract on serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and secondarily on other lipid parameters (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol and triglycerides), glucose levels, anthropometric measures, blood pressure, and safety outcomes in individuals with an LDL level between 100-190mg/dL.

Materials and methods

This was a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants were allocated to either C. zeylanicum extract or placebo group (1:1 allocation ratio). They were advised to take two capsules per day (1000 mg/day, a dose based on prior clinical studies suggesting potential efficacy and safety). Reduction in LDL-C at 12 weeks (from the baseline value) was compared between the two groups using ANCOVA. A complete-case analysis was adhered to in analyzing the outcome data.

Results

The mean age (SD) of the 150 participants was 50.4 (10.52) years, and 66% were females. Among the 127 participants assessed at 12 weeks, those in the C. zeylanicum extract arm had a lower LDL-C value than the placebo arm but the difference was not significant (the baseline adjusted mean difference was 6.05mg/dL; 95% CI: -2.43 to 14.52; p = 0.161). However, participants in the C. zeylanicum extract group showed significantly greater reductions in fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels (the baseline adjusted mean difference was 8.59mg/dL; 95% CI: 0.59 to 16.59; p = 0.036). There was a significant interaction effect between the supplement and participants’ glycemic status, with individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who received C. zeylanicum extract experiencing a notable reduction in FBS levels (standardized coefficient: -63, 95% CI: -102 to -25; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

C. zeylanicum extract did not have significantly reduce LDL-C but demonstrated a significant FBS-lowering effect, particularly in individuals with T2DM, with a favorable safety profile.

Trials registration

The trial was registered with the Sri Lanka Clinical Trials Registry: SLCTR/2021/011.
Precise phenotyping method using image data for carcass marbling score in Hanwoo cattle
Authors: Lee Wang Yeol , Dinh Phuong Thanh N. , Chung Yoonji , Lee Hyo-Jun , Koh Yeong Jun , Kim Hyun Joo , Jin Shil , Lee Jaeho , Lee Jun Heon , Chung Ki Yong , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Hyung-Yong
Published: January 2025

With the development of the Korean economy, demand for high-quality beef, specifically Hanwoo beef, is escalating, with marbling traits—measured by the widely used marbling score—being a key contributor to meat palatability. The differences between the high-quality and the lower-quality meat, according to the satisfaction of the customers, are not the result from only the degree of marbling but also from the delicacy of the marbling flecks distribution. Using the computer marbling analysis technique, an index for quantifying marbling fineness of 256 sirloin cuts at 12th– 13th thoracic vertebra named F7 index was developed in this study. F7 index is defined as the standard deviation of the ratios of marbling particles area to the tile area, was developed in this study. At the optimal step size of 70 tiles per axis, F7 index discriminated dramatically the finely marbled and coarsely marbled sirloin with Beef Marbling Score from 6 to 9, with P value = 1.340 × 10−27 < 0.05 of. Although the efficiency of computer image analysis procedure with the F7 index is still being optimized, the F7 index shows great potential to enhance the accuracy of Hanwoo beef quality grading alongside marbling score and support the development of improved breeding strategies for the Hanwoo cattle population in Korea.
Distinguishing benign and malignant myxoid soft tissue tumors: Performance of radiomics vs. radiologists
Authors: Lawrenz Joshua M. , Cui Can , Johnson Samuel R. , Hajdu Katherine S. , Chenard Stephen W. , Rekulapelli Akhil , Moran Cullen P. , Block John J. , Chadwick Nicholson S. , Shechtel Joanna L. , Bingham Brian , Luo Leo Y. , Halpern Jennifer L. , Schwartz Herbert S. , Holt Ginger E. , Smith David S. , Dawant Benoit , Kang Hakmook
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Benign and malignant myxoid soft tissue tumors have shared clinical, imaging, and histologic features that can make diagnosis challenging. The purpose of this study is comparison of the diagnostic performance of a radiomic based machine learning (ML) model to musculoskeletal radiologists.

Methods

Manual segmentation of 90 myxoid soft tissue tumors (45 myxomas and 45 myxofibrosarcomas) was performed on axial T1, and T2FS or STIR magnetic resonance imaging sequences. Eighty-seven radiomic features from each modality were extracted. Five ML models were trained to classify tumors as benign or malignant in 40 tumors and then tested with an additional 50 tumors using cross validation. The accuracy of the best ML model based on area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was compared to the consensus diagnosis of three musculoskeletal radiologists. Correlation between radiologist confidence (equivocal, probably, consistent with) and accuracy was tested.

Results

The best ML classifier was a logistic regression model (AUC 0.792). Using T1 + T2/STIR images, the ML model classified 78% (39/50) of tumors correctly at a similar rate compared to 74% (37/50) by radiologists. When radiologists disagreed, the consensus diagnosis classified 50% of tumors (7/14) correctly compared to 86% (12/14) by the ML model, though this did not reach statistical significance. Radiologists had a cumulative accuracy of 91% (30/33) when they rated their confidence ‘consistent with’ compared to 61% (31/51) when they rated their confidence ‘equivocal/probably’ (P = 0.006). For cases when radiologists rated their confidence ‘equivocal/probably’, the ML model had 76% accuracy (39/51).

Conclusions

A radiomic based ML model predicted benign or malignant diagnosis in myxoid soft tissue tumors similarly to the consensus diagnosis by three musculoskeletal radiologists. Radiologist confidence in the diagnosis strongly correlated with their diagnostic accuracy. Though radiomics and radiologists perform similarly overall, radiomics may provide novel diagnostic utility when radiologist confidence is low, or when radiologists disagree.
Generalized functional varying-index coefficient model for dynamic synergistic gene-environment interactions with binary longitudinal traits
Authors: Zhang Jingyi , Wang Honglang , Cui Yuehua
Published: January 2025

The genetic basis of complex traits involves the function of many genes with small effects as well as complex gene-gene and gene-environment interactions. As one of the major players in complex diseases, the role of gene-environment interactions has been increasingly recognized. Motivated by epidemiology studies to evaluate the joint effect of environmental mixtures, we developed a functional varying-index coefficient model (FVICM) to assess the combined effect of environmental mixtures and their interactions with genes, under a longitudinal design with quantitative traits. Built upon the previous work, we extend the FVICM model to accommodate binary longitudinal traits through the development of a generalized functional varying-index coefficient model (gFVICM). This model examines how the genetic effects on a disease trait are nonlinearly influenced by a combination of environmental factors. We derive an estimation procedure for the varying-index coefficient functions using quadratic inference functions combined with penalized splines. A hypothesis testing procedure is proposed to evaluate the significance of the nonparametric index functions. Extensive Monte Carlo simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the method under finite samples. The utility of the method is further demonstrated through a case study with a pain sensitivity dataset. SNPs were found to have their effects on blood pressure nonlinearly influenced by a combination of environmental factors.
Diverse autoinhibitory mechanisms of FIIND-containing proteins: Insight into regulation of NLRP1 and CARD8 inflammasome
Authors: Zhou Jingfan , Liu Chengrong , Wang Xin , Liu Zhenshan , Ming Zizhen , Wang Yonggang , Wang Chunxia , Liang Qiming
Published: January 2025

Function-to-find domain (FIIND)-containing proteins, including NLRP1 and CARD8, are vital components of the inflammasome signaling pathway, critical for the innate immune response. These proteins exist in various forms due to autoproteolysis within the FIIND domain, resulting in full-length (FL), cleaved N-terminal (NT), and cleaved C-terminal (CT) peptides, which form autoinhibitory complexes in the steady state. However, the detailed mechanism remains elusive. Here, we found that both NLRP1 paralogs and CARD8 form two conserved autoinhibitory complexes involving NT-CT interactions and FL-CT interactions, but with distinct mechanisms. Specifically, the Linker3 region located between LRR and FIIND in murine NLRP1b (mNLRP1b) plays an essential role in forming the NT-CT autoinhibitory complexes, while the ZU5 of rat NLRP1 (rNLRP1) and CARD8 mediates their NT-CT interaction. In addition, we explored the involvement of the cellular protease dipeptidyl peptidases 9 (DPP9) in these complexes, revealing differential interactions and the significance of domain structure. Besides the FL-DPP9-CT complex, DPP9 interacts with NTs of mNLRP1b, rNLRP1, and CARD8 through their ZU5 subdomains, forming NT-DPP9-CT complex; however, DPP9 cannot bind to NTs of hNLRP1. Further functional assay indicated that although DPP9 is involved in the NT-CT complex of rodent NLRP1 and CARD8, it does not influence the inhibitory activity of NT on CT. Our study enhanced the understanding of the regulatory functions of FIIND-containing proteins in inflammasome autoinhibition and activation and underscored the complexity of their interactions within the immune response.
Playful Frames: Styles of Widescreen Cinema, Steven Rybin (2024)
Authors: Deutelbaum Marshall
Published: January 2025

Review of: Playful Frames: Styles of Widescreen Cinema, Steven Rybin (2024)

New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University Press, 186 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-97881-595-7, h/bk, $150.00

ISBN 978-1-97881-594-0, p/bk, $42.95
Italian Political Cinema: Figures of the Long ’68, Mauro Resmini (2023)
Authors: Hegel Lorenz
Published: January 2025

Review of: Italian Political Cinema: Figures of the Long ’68, Mauro Resmini (2023)

Minneapolis, MN and London: University of Minnesota Press, 302 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-51791-138-6, p/bk, $28.00
The Non-Professional Actor: Italian Neorealist Cinema and Beyond, Catherine O’Rawe (2024)
Authors: Leavitt Charles L.
Published: January 2025

Review of: The Non-Professional Actor: Italian Neorealist Cinema and Beyond, Catherine O’Rawe (2024)

London: Bloomsbury Academic, 249 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-50139-435-5, h/bk, £90