bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-life boxing activity recognition with smartphones using attention assisted deep learning models
Authors: Jayakumar Brindha , Govindarajan Nallavan , Loganathan Balaji
Published: November 2024

Mobile computing technologies play a pivotal role in narrowing the gap between athletes and sports monitoring systems, while also advancing towards intelligent and automatic supervision of individual sports activities. The widespread presence of smartphones equipped with multifunctional sensors has enabled the acquisition and analysis of data, facilitating Human Activity Recognition (HAR). Although recognising sports activities using a smart mobile phone’s accelerometer is widely used, traditional methods struggle with intricate and real time activities due to the high-dimensional sensor data. This study introduces a smartphone-based architecture for HAR utilising inertial accelerometers to record athlete’s game actions data sequences, extract relevant features and derive the player’s activity data through multiple three-axis accelerometers. In this paper an Attention assisted Deep Convolution Neural Network based Bi-LSTM (AT-DCNN-BL) model is proposed. The raw data undergoes sliding window pre-processing technique, the deep learning framework of deep convolution neural network layers helps in automatic feature extraction, the bi-LSTM structure process the boxing activity data and the attention is focussed over the boxing activity classification data. The attention mechanism redistributes the weights of the extracted features which aids in increasing the classification accuracy. Other classification models like Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN), Bi-directional Long Short-Term Memory (bi-LSTM), Multi-Layer Perceptron Neural Network (MLPNN) and Random Forest (RF) are also applied to the dataset collected from a mobile sensor. The study explores training of deep learning methods and illustrates the superiority of the proposed approach over others using the collected mobile sensor dataset. The AT-DCNN-BL model achieved a higher classification accuracy compared to the other models. The AT-DCNN-BL model outperformed all the other models achieving a higher accuracy rate (92.71%).
Unveiling the prognostic significance of malignant ascites in advanced gastrointestinal cancers: a marker of peritoneal carcinomatosis burden
Authors: Provenzano Leonardo , Gwee Yong Xiang , Conca Veronica , Lonardi Sara , Bozzarelli Silvia , Tamburini Emiliano , Passardi Alessandro , Zaniboni Alberto , Tosi Federica , Aprile Giuseppe , Nasca Vincenzo , Boccaccino Alessandra , Ambrosini Margherita , Vetere Guglielmo , Carullo Martina , Guaglio Marcello , Battaglia Luigi , Zhao Joseph Jonathan , Chia Daryl Kai Ann , Yong Wei Peng , Tan Patrick , So Jimmy , Kim Guowei , Shabbir Asim , Ong Chin-Ann Johnny , Casella Francesco , Cremolini Chiara , Bencivenga Maria , Sundar Raghav , Pietrantonio Filippo
Published: November 2024

Background:

Ascites is common in advanced gastrointestinal cancers with peritoneal metastases (PM) and negatively impacts patient survival. No study to date has specifically evaluated the relationship between ascites, PM and survival outcomes in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) and metastatic gastric cancer (mGC).

Objectives:

This study aims to investigate and elucidate the relationship between malignant ascites, PM and survival outcomes in both mCRC and mGC patients.

Design:

This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected clinical trial data of mCRC and mGC patients with PM.

Methods:

We performed two pooled analyses, firstly of two Italian randomized trials enrolling patients with mCRC eligible for systemic therapy (TRIBE2; VALENTINO), and secondly of gastric cancer and peritoneal metastasis (GCPM) patients who underwent bi-directional therapeutic treatment comprising systemic and peritoneal-directed therapies.

Results:

Of 900 mCRC patients, 39 (4.3%) had PM with malignant ascites. Compared to the group without PM, median progression-free and overall survival were significantly inferior in the ascites group (hazard ratio (HR) for progression-free survival (PFS) 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21–2.35, p = 0.007; HR for overall survival (OS) 2.14, 95% CI: 1.57–3.01, p < 0.001), but not in the group of PM without ascites (HR for PFS 1.10, 95% CI: 0.91 – 1.34; HR for OS 1.04, 95% CI: 0.84 – 1.30). Of 170 patients with GCPM, those with ascites had higher median Peritoneal Cancer Index scores (23 vs 9, p < 0.001). Median OS was significantly inferior among those with ascites compared to those without (13.0 vs 21.0 months, HR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.16–2.52, p = 0.007).

Conclusion:

Ascites identifies a subgroup of patients with PM and poor outcomes, for whom tailored research are needed.
Early stereotactic body radiation therapy improves progression-free survival of first-generation EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in EGFR-mutated lung cancer: an observational cohort study
Authors: Xu Hailing , Qi Rongbin , Zhou Chao , Yu Yingying , Lin Ling , Wu Xiaomai , Lv Dongqing
Published: November 2024

Background:

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) in treating non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) exhibits a remarkable therapeutic efficacy. However, its effectiveness in overcoming resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) in patients with advanced EGFR mutations (EGFRm) NSCLC remains uncertain.

Objective:

We aimed to analyze the effect of SBRT on patients with first-line EGFR-TKIs.

Design and methods:

Eligible patients with advanced NSCLC initially diagnosed with EGFRm were enrolled. Patients in the EGFR-TKIs group received only the first-generation EGFR-TKIs until disease progression or death, while the others in the EGFR-TKIs + SBRT group received EGFR-TKIs and early SBRT (dose of 40–60 Gy/5–8 F) targeting the primary lung tumor at 1 month after EGFR-TKIs. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS), and the secondary endpoints were treatment-related adverse effects, overall survival (OS), and sites of initial failure.

Results:

A total of 184 advanced NSCLC patients with EGFRm were enrolled, including 39 patients in the EGFR-TKIs + SBRT group and 145 patients in the EGFR-TKIs group. The median PFS was 15.50 months in the EGFR-TKIs + SBRT group compared to 9.33 months in the EGFR-TKIs group ( p = 0.0020). However, the median OS was 29.10 months in the EGFR-TKIs + SBRT group and 26.33 months in the EGFR-TKIs group, with no significant difference observed ( p = 0.22). SBRT is an independent positive prognostic factor for PFS in advanced EGFRm NSCLC. EGFR exon 19 deletion mutation (16.33 vs 11.55 months, p = 0.0087) and fewer metastases (0–5) (31.94 vs 9.59 months, p = 0.0059) were associated with improved PFS in EGFR-TKIs + SBRT versus EGFR-TKIs. Combination therapy increased radiation pneumonitis mainly in Grades 1–2 (89.74% vs 0.0%). The EGFR-TKIs + SBRT group mainly had new site failure (57.10% vs 32.10%) rather than the original site failure.

Conclusion:

Early SBRT for primary lung tumors may overcome targeted resistance in advanced EGFRm NSCLC patients combined with EGFR-TKIs without serious toxicities, especially for EGFR exon 19-del.

Trial registration:

ChiCTR-OIN-17013920.
The role of baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT for survival prognosis in NSCLC patients undergoing immunotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Mingxing , Zou Yuheng , Wang Weichen , Li Qianrui , Tian Rong
Published: November 2024

Background:

The value of pretreatment baseline 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET)/computed tomography (CT) as a prognostic factor for survival of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receiving immunotherapy remained uncertain.

Objectives:

To investigate the prognostic ability of baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with NSCLC receiving immunotherapy.

Design:

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources and methods:

We searched the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases until May 7, 2024, and extracted data related to patient characteristics, semiquantitative parameters of 18F-FDG PET/CT, and survival. We pooled hazard ratios (HRs) to evaluate the prognostic value of the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax), mean standardized uptake value (SUVmean), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results:

A total of 22 studies (1363 patients, average age range 30–88 years) were included. Baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT-derived MTV was significantly associated with both OS (HR: 1.124, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.058–1.195, I2 = 81.70%) and PFS (HR: 1.069, 95% CI: 1.016–1.124, I2 = 71.80%). Other baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT-derived parameters, including SUVmax (OS: HR: 0.930, 95% CI: 0.718–1.230; PFS: HR: 0.979, 95% CI: 0.759–1.262), SUVmean (OS: HR: 0.801, 95% CI: 0.549–1.170; PFS: HR: 0.688, 95% CI: 0.464–1.020), and TLG (OS: HR: 0.999, 95% CI: 0.980–1.018; PFS: HR: 0.995, 95% CI: 0.980–1.010), were not associated with survival. Sensitivity analyses by removing one study at a time did not significantly alter the association between MTV and PFS or between MTV and OS. There was no evidence of publication bias.

Conclusion:

Pretreatment baseline 18F-FDG PET/CT-derived MTV might be a prognostic biomarker in NSCLC patients receiving immunotherapy. Further studies are needed to support routine use.
Exploratory analysis of immunomodulatory factors identifies L1CAM as a prognostic marker in alveolar soft-part sarcoma
Authors: Mondaza-Hernandez José L. , Hindi Nadia , Fernandez-Serra Antonio , Ramos Rafael , Gonzalez-Cámpora Ricardo , Gómez-Mateo María Carmen , Martinez-Trufero Javier , Lavernia Javier , Lopez-Pousa Antonio , Laínez Nuria , Martinez-Garcia Jeronimo , Valverde Claudia , Vaz-Salgado María Ángeles , Garcia-Plaza Gabriel , Marin-Borrero Isabel , Carrillo-Garcia Jaime , Martin-Ruiz Marta , Romero Pablo , Gutierrez Antonio , López-Guerrero Jose A. , Moura David S. , Martin-Broto Javier
Published: November 2024

Background:

Alveolar soft-part sarcoma (ASPS) is a rare tumor driven by the ASPSCR1-TFE3 fusion protein, with a propensity for metastasis. Prognostic factors remain poorly understood, and traditional chemotherapies are largely ineffective. Recent interest lies in immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), yet predictive biomarkers for treatment response are lacking. Previous studies have shown promising results with ICIs in ASPS, indicating a need for further investigation into biomarkers associated with immune response.

Objectives:

To identify prognostic biomarkers in ASPS and to explore the role of immune-related markers, particularly L1CAM, in predicting patient outcomes.

Design:

A retrospective cohort study of 19 ASPS patients registered in the GEIS database. The study involved the collection of clinical and histopathological data, followed by an analysis of immune markers and gene expression profiles to identify potential prognostic indicators.

Methods:

Clinical and histopathological data were retrospectively collected from the GEIS-26 study cohort of 19 ASPS patients. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate immune markers programmed death-1 ligand (PD-L1), programmed death-1, FAS, FASL, CD8, CD3, and CD4. An HTG ImmunOncology panel was conducted on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples to explore gene expression. Effects of differentially expressed genes on survival were explored by Kaplan–Meier.

Results:

PD-L1 positivity was widely observed (63%) in tumors, and CD8+ lymphocytic infiltration was common. High CD8 density correlated with greater overall survival (OS) while not statistically significant. No associations were found for other immune markers. L1CAM was identified as differentially expressed in patients with low CD8 infiltration and correlated negatively with OS.

Conclusion:

High L1CAM expression correlated with poorer OS, highlighting its potential as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target in ASPS. Immunomodulatory interventions may hold promise, as evidenced by PD-L1 expression and CD8+ infiltration. Further research, including larger cohorts and international collaborations, is needed to validate these findings and explore therapeutic strategies targeting L1CAM in ASPS.
From Coping to Resilience: How Youth with Lived Experience of Homelessness Cope with Stressful Experiences
Authors: Manoni-Millar Stéphanie , Gaetz Stephen , David Athourina , Sylvestre John , Aubry Tim
Published: November 2024

Homelessness presents numerous challenges for youth, including physical health issues, mental health problems, substance use, victimization, legal issues, and dropping out of school. Despite these challenges, youth display significant resilience. Using data from a randomized controlled trial on Housing First for Youth, this study examines qualitative narratives delving into the process of resilience (i.e., stressors, coping, and positive adaptation) among 21 youth over one year. Stressors varied among participants, with childhood abuse and instability being the most prominent. Coping mechanisms included creating barriers with unhealthy relationships, rebuilding relationships, and reframing their circumstances. The findings provide an exploration of the resilience process for youth experiencing homelessness, emphasizing the importance of understanding how youth respond to stressors and adapt to their environment. Additionally, this study highlights the significance of community and relationship-based coping strategies alongside individual approaches, thus displaying the pivotal role of community support in fostering resilience among homeless youth.
Synthetic injectable and porous hydrogels for the formation of skeletal muscle fibers: Novel perspectives for the acellular repair of substantial volumetric muscle loss
Authors: Griveau Louise , Bouvet Marion , Christin Emilie , Paret Cloé , Lecoq Lauriane , Radix Sylvie , Laumonier Thomas , Sohier Jerome , Gache Vincent
Published: November 2024

In severe skeletal muscle damage, muscle tissue regeneration process has to face the loss of resident muscle stem cells (MuSCs) and the lack of connective tissue necessary to guide the regeneration process. Biocompatible and standardized 3D structures that can be injected to the muscle injury site, conforming to the defect shape while actively guiding the repair process, holds great promise for skeletal muscle tissue regeneration. In this study, we explore the use of an injectable and porous lysine dendrimer/polyethylene glycol (DGL/PEG) hydrogel as an acellular support for skeletal muscle regeneration. We adjusted the DGL/PEG composition to achieve a stiffness conducive to the attachment and proliferation of murine immortalized myoblasts and human primary muscle stems cells, sustaining the formation and maturation of muscle fibers in vitro. We then evaluated the potential of one selected “myogenic-porous hydrogel” as a supportive structure for muscle repair in a large tibialis anterior muscle defect in rats. This injectable and porous formulation filled the defect, promoting rapid cellularization with the presence of endothelial cells, macrophages, and myoblasts, thereby supporting neo-myogenesis more specifically at the interface between the wound edges and the hydrogel. The selected porous DGL/PEG hydrogel acted as a guiding scaffold at the periphery of the defect, facilitating the formation and anchorage of aligned muscle fibers 21 days after injury. Overall, our results indicate DGL/PEG porous injectable hydrogel potential to create a pro-regenerative environment for muscle cells after large skeletal muscle injuries, paving the way for acellular treatment in regenerative muscle medicine.
Ant logic and necrolocutors
Authors: Gibson Lydia
Published: November 2024

As environmental research increasingly values and foregrounds traditional knowledge in a reinvigorated participatory turn, many of the original problematics and harms re-emerge through ostensible collaborations with knowledge-holders. These issues are not just instances of ethical oversight; they are the result of ant logic: narrow, spatialized conceptualizations of power, knowledge, and death as contained and fixed within bodies and space and preoccupations with visibility that produces ontological conceptions of local communities, traditional knowledge-holders, state actors, and neoliberal forces. This article unwinds the tight Foucauldian grip with which environmental social sciences are held to reveal power, knowledge, and death as vibrant, immaterial actors and explores the role of ant logic as an actor itself. In doing so, another key environmental actor is uncovered, one who leverages the death-centric form of articulation to define power and knowledge: the necrolocutor.
Development method in a large-scale public sector IT programme
Authors: Dingsøyr Torgeir
Published: November 2024

The Norwegian parental benefit programme started as a large-scale information technology operation to automate and provide self-service solutions for parental benefit applications. This benefit replaces lost salaries for about 100,000 parents every year while parents are home with new-born children. A previous programme to modernize IT solutions was stopped. The new programme replacing legacy solutions from the 1970s was seen as a large, complicated, and risky undertaking with a cost limit of USD 130 million. Initially, this programme had three main releases based on an internal development method combining project management and agile methods. During the second release, the programme experienced challenges with coordinating work across the business and development projects. The programme manager established a task force to propose changes in the development method for the last release. We then ask the question: If you were part of this task force, what should the programme manager do to remedy the coordination challenges for the last release? This teaching case is based on a longitudinal case study and is relevant for graduate or continuing education courses in information systems development or IT project management during which students learn how to organize efficient software development at scale.
Costs of physician and diagnostic imaging services for shoulder, knee, and low back pain conditions: A population-based study in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Xuan , Eubank Breda , Waye Arianna , Werle Jason , Walker Richard , Hart David A , Sheps David M , Schneider Geoff , Takahashi Tim , Wasylak Tracy , Slomp Mel
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To 1) estimate the utilization and costs of physician and diagnostic imaging (DI) services for shoulder, knee, and low-back pain (LBP) conditions; and 2) examine determinants of the utilization and costs of these services.

Methods

All patients visiting a physician for shoulder, knee, or LBP conditions (identified by the ICD-9 codes) in Alberta, Canada, in fiscal year (FY) 2022/2023 were included. Interested outcomes included numbers and costs of physician visits and DI exams stratified by condition, physician specialty, DI modality, and patients’ sex and age. Multivariate regressions were used to examine determinants of the outcomes.

Results

In FY 2022/2023, 10.4%, 7.0%, and 6.7% of the population saw physicians for shoulder, knee, and LBP conditions, respectively. This costs Alberta $307.04 million ($67.93 per capita), of which shoulder accounted for 41%, knee 28%, and LBP 31%. In the same FY, 17,734 computed tomography (CT), 43,939 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 686 ultrasound (US), and 170,936 X-ray exams related to shoulder/knee/LBP conditions were ordered for these patients, costing another $29.07 million, of which CT accounted for 14%, MRI 48%, US 0%, and X-ray 37%. Female, older age, comorbidity scores, and capital zone used physician services more frequently. Patients with a higher comorbidity index scores or more physician visits were more likely being referred for CT or MRI.

Conclusion

Musculoskeletal conditions are common and result in patients seeking healthcare services. Visits to family physicians, specialists, and the ordering of DI contribute to extensive utilization of health services, contributing to considerable health system costs.
Artificial intelligence as planetary assemblages of coloniality: The new power architecture driving a tiered global data economy
Authors: Hung Kai-Hsin
Published: November 2024

We present a framework for viewing artificial intelligence (AI) as planetary assemblages of coloniality that reproduce dependencies in how it co-constitutes and structures a tiered global data economy. We use assemblage thinking to map the coloniality of power to demonstrate how AI stratifies across knowledge, geographies, and bodies to influence development and economic trajectories, impact workers, reframe domestic industrial policies, and reconfigure the international political economy. Our post-colonial framework unpacks AI through its (1) global, (2) meso, and (3) local layers, and further dissects how these layers are vertically integrated, each with its horizontal dependencies. At (1) the global layer of international political economy maps a new digital bipolarity expressing Sino and American global digital corporations’ strategic and dominant positions in shaping a tiered global data economy. Then, at (2) the meso layer, we have a mosaic of domestic industrial policies that fund, frame markets, and develop AI talent across industries, sectors, and organizations to competitively integrate into AI value chains. Finally, incorporating into these are (3) the localized labor processes and tasks, where workers and users enact various AI-mediated tasks and practices driving further value extraction. We traced how AI is an interlaced system of power that reshapes knowledge, geographies, and bodies into dependencies that reinforce stratifications in developing underdevelopment. This commentary maps the current digital realities by laying out an uneven techno-geoeconomic power architecture driving a tiered global data economy and opening new research avenues to examine AI as planetary assemblages of coloniality.
Patients and healthcare practitioners’ perspective on the development of a digital interprofessional intervention for COPD
Authors: Biset Natacha , Rosière Amélie , Lartigue Victoria , Pochet Stéphanie , De Vriese Carine
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients often have poor health literacy, leading to non-adherence to treatment and poor inhalation technique. Technological solutions can help manage COPD, but adherence tends to be low due to various factors.

Objectives and Methods

We conducted a qualitative study to determine the needs of COPD patients and healthcare practitioners (HCPs) towards a mobile application and a web platform. We also aimed to identify potential barriers or facilitators to the use of such digital tools and their potential impact, and to assess the current state of collaboration between healthcare practitioners.

Results

Our study found that COPD patients face difficulties in managing the disease and treatments, lack information and need easier contact with caregivers. Patients’ needs include access to reliable information about COPD, its medical treatments and smoking cessation, help in maintaining good physical condition through adapted exercises, incentives and reminders, and crisis management protocols or a logbook. As patient needs can differ, it would be ideal if the mobile application could be customized. HCPs cite patient adherence, correct intake of the treatment, communication and lack of patient motivation as challenges. In particular, they would like to have access to information on patient follow-up and logbooks, as well as scientific documentation. They believe that interprofessional collaboration is essential for good patient care. However, lack of time is a major hurdle in optimizing this collaboration.

Conclusion

Our study showed that most patients and HCPs view a technological platform positively to support the care of COPD patients and promote interprofessional collaboration.
Patient and health professional attitudes towards the use of telemedicine for abortion care in Britain: Findings from the SACHA study
Authors: Meiksin Rebecca , Lewandowska Maria , Scott Rachel H , Palmer Melissa , McCarthy Ona , Salaria Natasha , Lohr Patricia A , Shawe Jill , French Rebecca Sophia , Wellings Kaye ,   the SACHA Study Team
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Use of telemedicine in abortion care is safe and effective. Patient satisfaction with telemedically supported abortion is high, but as use expands in Britain, little is known about patients’ or health professionals’ views on how it is best used. We sought the views of both groups on telemedicine's role in abortion provision and how its use might be optimised.

Methods

We administered a structured survey with an additional free-text response option to a range of health professionals from services identified via clustered random sampling. We conducted semi-structured interviews with patients with recent experience of abortion, purposively sampled from abortion services. Participants were recruited from England, Scotland and Wales. We analysed qualitative data using thematic analysis alongside framework analysis.

Results

Support for telemedicine was high among participants, which included 771 health professionals from a range of services and 48 patients. Among health professionals, 23% opposed the use of telemedicine in abortion provision. Opposition was highest among those uninvolved, or who did not feel skilled, in remote provision. Reported benefits included patient convenience and comfort. Patient concerns centred on adequate provision of emotional support. Participants made suggestions for augmenting and extending the use of telemedicine to meet some patients’ needs, including combining telemedical consultation with in-person care and providing information and follow-up via digital methods.

Conclusions

Acceptability of telemedically supported abortion, which offers logistical and emotional benefits to patients, is high in Britain. Novel ways of providing telemedical support should be explored to enhance remote abortion provision. In-person care should remain an option for patients.
Progress and clinical translation in hepatocellular carcinoma of deep learning in hepatic vascular segmentation
Authors: Zhang Tianyang , Yang Feiyang , Zhang Ping
Published: November 2024

This paper reviews the advancements in deep learning for hepatic vascular segmentation and its clinical implications in the holistic management of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The key to the diagnosis and treatment of HCC lies in imaging examinations, with the challenge in liver surgery being the precise assessment of Hepatic vasculature. In this regard, deep learning methods, including convolutional neural networksamong various other approaches, have significantly improved accuracy and speed. The review synthesizes findings from 30 studies, covering aspects such as network architectures, applications, supervision techniques, evaluation metrics, and motivations. Furthermore, we also examine the challenges and future prospects of deep learning technologies in enhancing the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of HCC, discussing anticipated breakthroughs that could transform patient management. By combining clinical needs with technological advancements, deep learning is expected to make greater breakthroughs in the field of hepatic vascular segmentation, thereby providing stronger support for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
Integrating science into digital health workflows: A strategic approach for leaders
Authors: Huberty Jennifer , Beatty Clare C
Published: November 2024

As the digital health industry becomes increasingly competitive, companies must integrate science cross-functionally to drive innovation and differentiation. However, many companies face significant challenges in effectively leveraging science across their organization. This commentary explores the common obstacles digital health companies encounter when integrating science, including limited C-suite understanding, siloed structures, resource constraints, change resistance, and value demonstration challenges. We provide practical strategies for overcoming each challenge, such as educating leadership on science's strategic importance, fostering cross-functional collaboration, prioritizing high-impact initiatives, facilitating open dialogue, and quantifying science's measurable impact. By proactively addressing these hurdles through targeted solutions, companies can successfully integrate science across teams and functions. Effective cross-functional science integration will enable companies to leverage scientific insights, drive product innovation, build credibility through evidence-based outcomes, and ultimately gain a competitive advantage in the rapidly evolving digital health landscape. Strong scientific leadership that champions integration through clear communication, strategic prioritization, and cultural buy-in is essential for achieving long-term success.
Accuracy of wrist-worn activity trackers for measuring steps in patients after major abdominal surgery: A validation study
Authors: Li Zhi , Feng Weiyan , Zhou Lili , Gong Shu
Published: November 2024

Background

Wearable activity trackers provide a simple and objective measurement of postoperative mobilization. However, few have validated the accuracy of trackers in patients after major abdominal surgery.

Objective

To examine the accuracy of wrist-worn activity trackers to measure steps of patients in early mobilization after major abdominal surgery, and to explore the influence of clinical variables and gait parameters on the accuracy of trackers.

Methods

Forty-five patients after major abdominal surgery were recruited to participate in modified six-minute walk tests wearing three trackers simultaneously, the Fitbit Inspire HR, Xiaomi MI 4, and HONOR 5. The differences in displayed steps before and after the walking test were considered as the step counts measured by the trackers; the actual steps taken were determined as the average of the values manually counted by two researchers. The intraclass correlation coefficient, Bland–Altman method, mean percentage error, and mean absolute percentage error were used to assess the accuracy of trackers with reference to manual step counts.

Results

The three trackers undercounted postoperative steps by −65.5% to −23.5%. Analysis showed low-to-good agreement between step counts recorded by trackers and actual steps (ICC = 0.35–0.75); the mean absolute percentage errors ranged from 24.5% to 65.7%. For all trackers, mean absolute percentage errors correlated negatively with postoperative days ( r = −0.626 to −0.744), walking speed ( r = −0.714 to −0.854), step length ( r = −0.466 to −0.615), and cadence ( r = −0.681 to −0.790), while there were positive correlations between mean absolute percentage errors and the number of abdominal drains ( r = 0.450–0.514).

Conclusions

The specific activity trackers used in this study might not be reliable tools for measuring steps counts during the walking test in the early postoperative period for patients undergoing major abdominal surgery.
Anomalous Origin of the Right Subclavian Artery from the Right Pulmonary Artery in a Patient with d-Transposition of the Great Arteries: Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment
Authors: Sekelyk Roman , Delikatnyi Maksym , Kozhokar Dmytro , Yusifli Ibrahim , Shypov Danylo , Kurkevych Andrii , Yemets Illya
Published: November 2024

Anomalous origin of the right subclavian artery (AORSA) from the right pulmonary artery is a rare congenital anomaly usually diagnosed by computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, or angiography. We present a very rare case of diagnosis and surgical correction of AORSA coexisting with d-transposition of the great arteries in a newborn’s first hours of life. Due to the critical local hospital and patient conditions, additional cross-sectional imaging was not feasible. The diagnosis was suspected by clinical signs, confirmed by transthoracic echocardiogram, and the patient was urgently taken to the operating room. We discuss clinical and echocardiographic signs of this child with d-transposition of the great arteries and AORSA from the right pulmonary artery.
It’s Relative! The Cross-Modal Effects of Music Density on Perception of Product Size
Authors: Schorn Robert , Abfalter Dagmar , Brunner-Sperdin Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Individuals inevitably make inferences concerning size when they consider an object presented without cues to its actual size. Recent studies show that structural differences in background music can influence consumers’ perceptions of product attributes through cross-modal correspondence. We introduce a new structural element of music, the “music event rate.” To this end, we make a distinction between the absolute density (notes per time unit) and the relative density (notes per measure or music event rate) and propose an influence of the latter on consumers’ perceptions of product size. Our study employs a 2 (notes per measure: four vs. eight) × 2 (music tempo: slow vs. fast) × 2 (music mode: major vs. minor) between-subject experimental design. Dependent variables are participants’ size estimates of three different food items (pictures of burger, pizza, wine bottle) presented online. The results show that the number of notes per measure has an influence on consumers’ size perception of food items insofar as a higher event rate or number of notes per measure in a music stimulus leads consumers to infer a smaller product size, whereas a lower number of notes per measure leads consumers to perceive products as larger. This cross-modal effects of the music event rate on product size perception represent a previously unexplored influence on consumer behavior.
Is Endoscopic Surgery a Safe and Effective Treatment for Lumbar Disc Herniation? A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Cai Bo-Tao , Yang Fan , Wang Deng-Chao
Published: November 2024

Study Design

Systematic Review.

Objective

This meta-analysis systematically evaluates the safety and effectiveness of endoscopic techniques in the treatment of lumbar disc herniation (LDH).

Methods

A comprehensive computerized search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), VIP Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang Database. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing endoscopic techniques with non-endoscopic techniques for the treatment of LDH were identified. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

Seventeen RCTs involving 1748 LDH patients were analyzed. The meta-analysis revealed that, compared to the non-endoscopic discectomy (NED) group, the endoscopic discectomy (ED) group exhibited significantly lower intraoperative blood loss [MD = −74.45 mL, 95% CI (−124.88, −24.02), P = .004], shorter hospitalization duration [MD = −4.07 days, 95% CI (−6.67, −1.48), P = .002], lower Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores at the last follow-up [MD = −.35, 95% CI (−.63, −.07), P = .01], and a lower incidence of complications [RR = .35, 95% CI (.25, .48), P < .00001]. Moreover, the ED group exhibited a higher ratio of excellent and good therapeutic effects postoperatively [RR = 1.05, 95% CI (1.01, 1.10), P = .01]. However, there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores at the last follow-up [SMD = −.49, 95% CI (−1.14, .17), P = .14] and operation time [MD = −10.17 min, 95% CI (−27.05, 6.71), P = .24].

Conclusion

Endoscopic techniques in the treatment of LDH exhibit significant superiority in intraoperative blood loss, hospitalization duration, postoperative pain, complication rates, and postoperative therapeutic effects. This provides patients with a safer and more effective treatment option.
Understanding the Multifactorial Influences on Postsurgical Pain After Rotator Cuff Repair: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lazaridou Asimina , Brune Daniela , Schneller Tim , George Steven Z. , Edwards Robert R. , Scheibel Markus
Published: November 2024

Background:

The experience of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP) can vary widely among patients after rotator cuff repair (RCR).

Purpose:

To determine the prevalence and predictive factors of CPSP at 6 months after RCR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The following assessments were conducted preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively in adult patients with RCR who had undergone primary arthroscopic RCR (N = 1987): Constant score, pain assessed on the numeric rating scale (0-10), the Subjective Shoulder Value, the Oxford Shoulder Score, and quality of life as measured by the EuroQol–5 Dimensions–5 Level (EQ-5D-5L). Patient characteristics—including age, sex, body mass index, and smoking status—and surgical factors—including the duration of surgery and the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification—were also reported. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine which variables were predictors for CPSP.

Results:

The prevalence of moderate to severe preoperative pain in the patients was 30.4% for CPSP. After adjusting for age, surgery duration, ASA classification, sex, and body mass index, results revealed that unique predictors for CPSP were as follows: (1) the presence of preoperative negative affect—assessed using the anxiety/depression dimension of the EQ-5D-5L (odds ratio [OR], 1.46 ( P < .001); (2) preoperative pain (OR, 1.17; P < .001); and (3) shoulder function (OR, 0.96; P < .001). None of the surgical factors appeared to predict CPSP.

Conclusion:

Patients predisposed to CPSP can be identified during the preoperative phase. Collectively, there is a call for a more in-depth assessment of biopsychosocial risk factors that could substantially influence the postoperative pain experience.
Assessing Atlanta’s Placed-Based College Scholarship
Authors: Bueno Carycruz , Page Lindsay , Smith Jonathan
Published: November 2024

We investigate whether and how Achieve Atlanta’s college scholarship and associated services impact college enrollment, persistence, and graduation among Atlanta Public School graduates experiencing low household income. Qualifying for the scholarship of up to $5,000 per year does not meaningfully change college enrollment among those near the high school GPA eligibility thresholds. However, scholarship receipt does have large and statistically significant effects on early college persistence (i.e., 14%) that continue through BA degree completion within 4 years (22%), although scholarship receipt does not impact graduation from 2-year colleges. We discuss how the selection criteria and processes of place-based programs intended for those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds may influence results for different types of students.
Nurses’ Self-Leadership in the Face of Challenging Situations, Such as Patient Deterioration
Authors: Prinsloo Carine
Published: November 2024

Background

Nurses play an essential role as frontline caregivers, particularly in recognizing and responding to patient deterioration. This study addresses nurses’ self-leadership in the face of challenging situations such as patient deterioration, emphasizing the importance of self-leadership skills in navigating complex patient care scenarios. Delayed recognition of subtle changes in patient’s conditions has been linked to adverse outcomes, necessitating a closer examination of the role of self-leadership in nursing practice.

Objective

The objective of this research was to explore and understand the implications of self-leadership among nurses when confronted with challenging situations, specifically focusing on patient deterioration.

Methods

A qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive research design was employed, utilizing focus group discussions (FGDs) with nurses from a private hospital in Pretoria, South Africa. Semistructured interview guide facilitated the FGDs, and data saturation was achieved after the eight sessions. The sample included nurses with various qualifications and shifts, offering diverse perspectives on self-leadership in patient care. Rigorous data collection and trustworthiness measures, including member checking and verbatim transcriptions, were employed to enhance the conformability of the study.

Results

The findings revealed six overarching themes and 15 subthemes, demonstrating the interconnectedness of self-leadership and nursing practice. Themes included responsibility and autonomy, compassion and care, support and collaboration, learning from experience, teamwork, and appreciation and recognition. These themes explained how nurses actively engaged in self-observation, constructive thought patterns, and natural reward strategies to proactively address patient deterioration.

Conclusion

The study underlines the significance of integrating self-leadership principles into nursing practice. Embracing self-leadership in nursing holds promise for improving patient outcomes and nurturing a resilient and competent nursing workforce.
“Well I Failed, but I Have No Idea Why”…: Experiences of Feedback After High-Stakes Summative Specialist Medical Examination in Ophthalmology
Authors: Jessup Belinda , Allen Penny , Kirschbaum Melissa , Khanal Santosh , Baker-Smith Victoria , Graham Barnabas , Barnett Tony
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE

Medical specialist trainees report dissatisfaction with both the usefulness and timing of feedback provided following summative examinations. This study aimed to explore ophthalmology trainee and supervisor experiences of feedback following final summative examination (the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists Advanced Clinical Examination (RACE)).

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with ophthalmology trainees who had recently sat RACE (2017-2021) ( n = 19) and supervising ophthalmologists who support trainees to prepare for RACE ( n = 10). Interview data were thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

Two themes were identified. Inadequate feedback related to trainee experiences receiving feedback relating to examination performance that was insufficient and unhelpful in identifying gaps in learning, explaining the reasons for failure and supporting preparation for resitting. Inability to contextualize feedback encompassed trainee and supervisor concerns regarding the inability to review examination manuscripts after sitting the examination, the absence of marking criteria, rubrics and model answers to understand the passing standard and the lack of opportunity to discuss performance with examiners.

CONCLUSIONS

Detailed, individualized task-level and process-level feedback on examination performance is needed for all trainees. Opportunities to view examination manuscripts, marking criteria and model answers, as well as speak with examiners, would improve transparency of the assessment process, enhance feedback and improve trainee success.
Made with Artificial Intelligence: The Effect of Artificial Intelligence Disclosures in Instagram Advertisements on Consumer Attitudes
Authors: Wortel Caroline , Vanwesenbeeck Ini , Tomas Frédéric
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to disrupt the advertising industry as marketers and brands can leverage its power to create highly engaging personalized content. However, the usage of AI is prone to bias and misinformation and can be used to manipulate. Therefore, various lawmakers such as the European Union aim to enforce AI disclosure messages to protect consumers. But the implications of such disclosures have not yet been studied. This paper draws on existing theories in persuasion knowledge, disclosure theory, inferences of manipulative intent, and AI aversion to develop a model to understand consumer attitudes toward AI disclosures in Instagram advertisements. A three-condition between-subjects online experiment ( Nfinal  = 161) was conducted to test the model. The data were analyzed using a moderated mediation model. AI disclosures lead to a direct decrease in advertising attitude. In addition, AI disclosures lead to a decrease in brand attitude only when consumers have high AI aversion. There were no effects of AI disclosures on source credibility. These effects were mediated by inferences of manipulative intent. However, participants who viewed the AI disclosure had lower inferences of manipulative intent and then participants who did not view the AI disclosure. Furthermore, no differences were found between AI disclosures pertaining to the use of AI in the creation of the image or the text. Implications are discussed from both theoretical and managerial viewpoints and highlight why the use of AI on social media for advertising purposes should be limited as it will become more transparent in the future.
A meta-analysis of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions aiming to improve work-relevant outcomes for adults with ADHD
Authors: Lauder Kirsty , McDowall Almuth , Tenenbaum Harriet R
Published: November 2024

Evaluate and compare the efficacy of pharmacological and psychosocial interventions on work-relevant outcomes, such as time management and productivity, for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. A meta-analysis that searched 12 databases. Included studies had a control group and an outcome measure related to workplace functioning or addressing time management/organization. Studies included intervention groups with 52% men and a mean age of 33.2 years. We evaluated studies using the random effects model and summarized standardized mean difference. We assessed sensitivity, publication bias, and risk of bias. We evaluated the efficacy of 23 studies, including 3835 participants. Overall, pharmacological ( d = .19) and psychosocial ( d = .56) interventions were more efficacious at improving work-relevant outcomes than control. Treatment with Methylphenidate was the only robust effect comparing the pharmacological interventions. For psychosocial interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy showed the most robust effect. There was evidence of heterogeneity; hence, findings need to be interpreted with caution. Findings suggest that combining pharmacological and psychosocial interventions may be useful for improving work-related outcomes. However, we contend that these need to be designed with transferability to the workplace in mind. For example, improving organization skills in workplace settings.
Fast or slow? A meta-analysis on the performance implications of decision, implementation, and response speed
Authors: Kolev Kalin D. , Dykes Bernadine J. , Kang Saehee (Sam) , Hughes-Morgan Margaret , Ferrier Walter J.
Published: November 2024

Speed across various organizational processes, such as decision-making, executing operational activities, and responding to competitive challenges, represents an essential component of firms’ ability to achieve a competitive advantage. However, a theoretical and empirical consensus has yet to form whether decision speed (DS), implementation speed (IS), and response speed (RS) are beneficial or detrimental to firm performance. To help reconcile these inconclusive findings, we meta-analyze 127 studies (representing 239 effect sizes) and report overall direct effects for DS (0.21), IS (0.22), and RS (0.10) on firm performance. In addition, we examine contingencies which reveal that the performance consequences of DS, IS, and RS vary across contextual and methodological conditions.
‘IPCC-envy’: Why do other science-policy issues want an IPCC, and should they?
Authors: Hulme Mike
Published: November 2024

The UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been at the forefront of climate science and policy for more than 35 years. Many commentators hold up the IPCC as a model for how global knowledge should be assessed, communicated and employed in complex, transnational, public policy challenges. In this essay, I lay out some reasons why other science-policy issues might indeed be envious of the IPCC, but also suggest a number of reasons why replication of the IPCC in other topic areas might be difficult and why it might not necessarily be desirable.