bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imagine How Future Workplaces Could Be: Introducing Fictional Science to Organizational Behavior
Authors: Bal P. Matthijs , Griffin April Liu , Orhan Mehmet A. , van Rossenberg Yvonne Gerarda Theodora
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces the concept of fictional science to the field of Organizational Behavior. We outline its necessity and the intended benefits for the field. Organizational Behavior is a scientific discipline which has limited experience with imaginative reasoning in the field and, thus, the envisioning of what could be, and how workplaces could be designed in the future. Fictional science, as the imagined, made-up scientific thinking and argumentation, holds the possibilities for such imagination. It, therefore, offers academics and practitioners the means to postulate possible futures for workplaces and, thus, the potential to bring about positive change to workplaces. We also explain the importance of form, and the role of the literary in fictional science. The essay finishes with examples of how fictional science has been used in the past, and how it could be used in the future.
Aldehyde Dehydrogenase-1A1 (ALDH1A1): The Novel Regulator of Chemoresistance in Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Duong Hong-Quan , Hoang Minh-Cong , Nguyen Thi-Hue , Nguyen Phuong-Thoa , Le Van-Thu , Dao Thi-Nguyet , Ngo Van-Lang , Dang The-Hung
Published: November 2024

Aldehyde dehydrogenase-1A1 (ALDH1A1), a member of a superfamily of 19 isozymes, exhibits various biological functions and is involved in several important physiological and pathological processes, including those associated with various diseases including cancers such as pancreatic cancer. Chemotherapy is one of the most important strategies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer; however, the chemoresistance exhibited by pancreatic cancer cells is a leading cause of chemotherapy failure. It has been reported that overexpression of ALDH1A1 significantly correlates with poor prognosis and tumor aggressiveness, and is clinically associated with chemoresistance. Additionally, ALDH1A1 may serve as a novel regulator for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer resistance. In particular, ALDH1A1 can promote cancer progression by facilitating the manifestation of cancer stem cell properties. However, the molecular mechanism by which ALDH1A1 clinically regulates the development of chemoresistance, and its role in prognosis and cancer stem cells, including pancreatic cancer stem cells, remain unclear. Therefore, the current review aims to summarize the clinical functions of ALDH1A1 as a novel regulator of chemoresistance, prognosis, and cancer stem cell development in pancreatic cancer.
The Effects of 11+ Dance on Physiological Parameters in Adolescent Ballet Dancers: A Randomized Controlled Equivalence Trial
Authors: Kolokythas Nico , Metsios George S. , Galloway Shaun M. , Allen Nick , Wyon Matthew A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: The use of neuromuscular interventions in sports induce meaningful motor performance in strength, sprint and power. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the “11+ Dance” exercise program versus normal training (control) on possible adaptations in power, lower-body strength, and inter-limb asymmetry in adolescent ballet dancers. Study Design: Prospective randomized controlled trial. Methods: Dancers (n = 76) from a pre-professional ballet school volunteered for this study. Data from the two trials (pilot and main trials) were combined to protect the results from possible learning effect of the intervention. Participants were randomly assigned to either the 11+ Dance intervention (n = 38) or Control (n = 38). Participants completed at least 21 sessions over 7-9 weeks. The 11+ Dance intervention consisted of neuromuscular-based exercises, whereas the Control group carried out their normal routine. Baseline and post intervention outcome measures included countermovement jump (CMJ), reactive strength index (RSI), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), and inter-limb asymmetry (ASYM). Results: Non-statistically significant improvements were noted for both 11+ Dance and control groups across outcome measures; CMJ F(1, 66) = 3.52, P = .065, [Formula: see text] = .051 (14% vs 8%), RSI F(1, 65) = 1.02, P = .316, [Formula: see text] = .015 (6% vs 13%), and IMTP F(1, 67) = 1.7, P = .197, [Formula: see text] = .025 (23% vs 18%). ASYM ( F[1, 63] = .109, P = .743, [Formula: see text] = .002) (24% vs 15%). No statistically significant interaction for adherence was revealed for all the parameters. Conclusion: The 11+ Dance intervention elicited similar physiological adaptations as the Control group. Larger longitudinal studies are needed to investigate the efficacy of the 11+ Dance on injury incidence and severity as current evidence suggests prophylactic programs such as the 11+ Dance have an effect on injury prevention.
Air arthrography: a safe technique for intra-articular hip injections
Authors: Tse Shannon , Chut Ashley K , Hutt Jonathan
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Diagnosing the specific causes of young adult hip pain remains challenging due to non-specific symptoms. Fluoroscopy-guided injections are useful for confirming intra-articular hip pain and differentiating it from extra-articular pathology. When performing injections, accurate needle placement into the hip joint is critical. Traditionally, a contrast agent is used to confirm intra-articular positioning. Air arthrograms are an alternative technique that avoids adverse reactions to contrast, which may compromise interpretation of results, as well as being more cost-effective. This study presents the air arthrography technique for intra-articular hip injections, and assesses outcomes and complications in a consecutive patient cohort.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent an air arthrography guided intra-articular hip injection at a single institution between April 2019 and September 2022. We identified 352 hips in 294 patients. Patient records were evaluated for complications from the injection or any subsequent hip surgery.

Results:

Mean age at time of injection was 38 years (±14.7 SD) for 216 females and 78 males. Mean follow-up time post injection was 138 days (IQR = 46–186). Results showed a 2.56% complication rate, primarily attributed to steroid flares, all of which resolved without further intervention. 102 patients proceeded to subsequent hip surgery; the mean time from injection to procedure was 341 days (IQR = 194–456) and the mean follow-up post subsequent procedure was 346 days (IQR = 87–531). There were no infective complications following the injections or any subsequent procedures.

Conclusions:

This is the first study that evaluates longer-term patient outcomes following air arthrography guided injections with or without subsequent surgery. Our results demonstrate that the use of air arthrograms is a reliable, safe, and cost-effective method for intra-articular hip injections, without the additional risks posed by contrast media.
Assessment of the Quality of Drinking Water Sources in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia
Authors: Alemu Agegnehu , Bitew Woinitu , Liyew Anteneh Zelalem
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the quality of water supplied to Bahir Dar city, Ethiopia. The city gets water from 3 springs and 12 dug wells. Fifteen samples were collected from these water sources in the dry and wet seasons and examined according to standard procedures to determine their physicochemical and bacteriological qualities. The mean values of physicochemical parameters (dry and wet seasons) measured include: temperature (26.047 ± 0.71°C and 20.527 ± 0.586°C), pH (7.03 ± 0.58 and 7.13 ± 0.476), electrical conductivity (197 ± 53.78 and 119.144 ± 35.85 μs/cm), total dissolved solid (129.67 ± 34.87 and 70.97 ± 21.48 mg/L), fluoride (0.54 ± 0.263 and 0.21 ± 0.108 mg/L), phosphate (0.544 ± 0.214 and 0.47 ± 0.292 mg/L), nitrate ions (3.16 ± 0.897 and 3.12 ± 1.278 mg/L), total alkalinity (119.22 ± 41.254 and 127.49 ± 32.829 mg/L as CaCO3), and total hardness (47.6 ± 20.797 and 41.47 ± 24.46 mg/L as CaCO3) were safe and within the range of WHO and Ethiopian acceptable drinking water quality standards. The mean turbidity (3.37 ± 3.27 NTU) in the dry season was in the permissible limit of Ethiopia and WHO, but the mean turbidity in the wet season (6.88 ± 2.67 NTU) was above the drinking water guideline of WHO and Ethiopia. The bacteriological analyses of mean fecal coliform (10.6 ± 10.01 and 3.2 ± 2.344 CFU/100 mL) and total coliforms (56.8 ± 74.08 CFU/100 mL, too numerous to count CFU/100 mL) in the dry and wet seasons were beyond the WHO and Ethiopian permissible limit. This indicates that the water sources are not safe and consumers are at risk. Therefore, the water sources require treatment before it is distributed to the consumers.
Assessing People’s Awareness of Environmental and Health Impacts of Straw Burning in Southeast Vietnam Through Factor Analysis and Proposing Sustainable Solutions
Authors: Dinh Van-Phuc , Duong Bich-Ngoc , Nguyen Thi-Phuong-Tu , Tran Thanh , Nguyen Duy-Khoi , Ngo Thi Cam Quyen , Hoang Bich Ngoc , Nguyen Thanh Q.
Published: November 2024

Rice production in Southeast Vietnam generates a large amount of straw, which is often burnt directly in fields, causing air pollution and affecting community health. This study aims to assess the awareness of the environmental and health impacts of straw burning among farmers, students, and managers in the provinces of Tay Ninh, Binh Phuoc, and Dong Nai, Vietnam. We conducted a survey of 686 individuals, divided into 3 main groups: 349 farmers, 250 students, and 87 local government officials. The survey results, analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA), indicate that 55.2% of farmers never engage in straw burning, while 24.4% report infrequent burning. Awareness of the negative impacts, such as ecological imbalance, air pollution, and soil degradation, is prevalent, particularly among students and managers. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in perception and behavior toward straw burning among the groups. Despite the willingness of farmers to adopt sustainable straw management practices, they require low-cost solutions that do not significantly alter their farming practices. This study proposes a policy framework that includes educational initiatives, community participation, and government support to promote sustainable straw management. By guiding farmers away from straw burning, the framework aims to reduce air pollution and contribute to environmental protection and sustainable agricultural development.
Piloting text-mining in a mixed-method evaluation on human rights: Management propositions for small public administrations
Authors: Heinonen Nea-Mari
Published: November 2024

Text-mining was piloted in an evaluation of the Human Rights-Based Approach in Finland’s development cooperation. Textual and numerical evidence was extracted from project documents using rules-based, machine learning and topic modelling techniques. This practice-oriented article exemplifies considerations for evaluation managers from a civil servant’s perspective. It discusses obstacles to engaging with these techniques identified by literature. It demonstrates the feasibility of piloting new technologies for public administrations with limited human resources, emphasising guidance from the evaluation manager, staff training and early collaboration with data scientists and partners. Text-mining offers new ways of generating and analysing data. The limitations call for mixed-methods, evaluative judgement by evaluators and human oversight by the evaluation manager. Although resource-intensive, employing these methods does not require one to become a data scientist but to understand what kind of evidence can be generated. Management propositions are provided.
A Psychoanalytic Reconsideration of Chemsex and Anti-Retroviral Time: Or, It’s G O’Clock
Authors: Osserman Jordan
Published: November 2024

This article intervenes in contemporary critical scholarship on the ethics of chemsex and other so-called ‘risky’ gay male sexual practices through a careful appraisal of psychoanalytic theory on subjectivity and sexuality. I argue that the emerging field of critical chemsex studies prioritises contemporary approaches to ‘bodies and pleasures’ at the expense of subjectivity, leading to an inability to adequately theorise some participants’ avowed experiences of suffering from problematic chemsex use. Drawing critically on previous psychoanalytic scholarship on barebacking, I argue that, contrary to stereotypical depictions, chemsex may be motivated not by a self-destructive death drive, but rather a paradoxical attempt to shelter oneself from this drive. This idea may helpfully counter the psychoanalytic tendency to exceptionalise or pathologise gay male sexual practices, while also questioning the ethical valence attributed to chemsex. I conclude with an exploration of Lacanian ethics and the implications this may hold for critical chemsex studies and public health.
Translingual practices in Chinese as a second language writing: Variations across language proficiency levels
Authors: Sun Yachao , Lan Ge
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the variations in multilingual students’ translingual practices across language proficiency levels in the context of Chinese as a second language (CSL) writing. The case study examined multilingual students’ CSL writing across different proficiency levels at a Sino-US joint-venture university in China, with the aim to understand the variations in translingual practices across these levels. The findings revealed that as language proficiency advanced, there was a corresponding increase in the sophistication of translingual practices, which was manifested in a rise in nuanced, strategic, and culturally inclusive writing. The gradual development in language proficiency allowed students to navigate beyond lexical boundaries and embrace linguistic and cultural diversity, which indicated a change from a monolingual viewpoint to a translingual one. These findings underscore the vital role of language proficiency in both the research and implementation of translingual practices, indicating that translingual practices extend beyond mere scaffolding to involve the development of translingual and transcultural competence. This points toward the need to foster linguistic diversity and cultivate this competence within classroom environments to optimize the enactment of translingual practices for CSL writing education.
Spatial and planar profiling of Rac1/Cdc42 signaling in Alzheimer's disease brain
Authors: Akhtar Shayan Nik , Tran Tuan D , Chen Yan-Hua , Lu Qun
Published: November 2024

Background

A neuropathogenic hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is loss of neuronal synapses in selective brain regions. Small GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42, critical modulators of synaptic architecture and remodeling, are dysregulated in AD brains and are potential AD therapeutic targets. However, the exact contribution of their signaling to AD is still not clear.

Objective

We intend to investigate the hypothesis that Rac1/Cdc42 activity changes in a spatial and planar dependent manner in relation to AD.

Methods

We applied anti-pRac/Cdc42 (Serine 71 phosphorylation), which recognizes an inactive form of Rac1/Cdc42, and anti-pPAK (Threonine 423 phosphorylation), which detects the active PAK, a positive downstream effector of Rac1/Cdc42 signaling. For this study, triple transgenic mouse model (3xTg-AD) brain and human AD brain samples were used.

Results

pRac/Cdc42 expression was decreased in 3xTg-AD mouse cortex while pPAK expression increased compared to wild-type mouse cortex. Immunostaining of mouse brain serial sections revealed increased pRac/Cdc42 expression in the rostral region, decreased expression in the caudal region, and pPAK showed an overall opposite trend of pRac/Cdc42. There was also a brain plane specific nuclear to cytoplasmic redistribution of pRac/Cdc42. Human non-dementia and AD cortex and cerebellum showed differential expressions for pRac/Cdc42, Rac1, and Cdc42. Mouse whole transcriptome analysis demonstrated spatial dependent expression of Rac1/Cdc42 signaling-associated genes in neuronal and non-neuronal (astrocyte) populations of 3xTg-AD hippocampi.

Conclusions

Rac1/Cdc42 signaling is dysregulated in both 3xTg-AD mouse and AD human brain and Rac1/Cdc42 activity level changes along the spatial and planar dimensions.
Sleep patterns, global mental status and mortality risk among middle-aged urban adults
Authors: Beydoun May A , Beydoun Hind A , Georgescu Michael F , Tate Rio , Hossain Sharmin , Vieytes Christian A Maino , Gamaldo Alyssa A , Evans Michele K , Zonderman Alan B
Published: November 2024

Background

Sleep, cognition, and mortality may be interdependent.

Objective

We explored paths between sleep, cognition and mortality and potential interactions.

Methods

The study examines the relationship among sleep, global mental status, and mortality risk using data from 1364 participants from the Healthy Aging in Neighborhood of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) study. We used Cox proportional hazards models and four-way decomposition models to analyze sleep patterns and global mental status.

Results

After a median time at risk of 8.2 years, 172 deaths occurred, with rate of 16 per 1000 person-years. A 1-unit increase in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) global score was linked to a 7% increase in mortality risk in the reduced model, but this effect was attenuated in the full model. In both reduced and fully adjusted models, the PSQI global score and sleep quality domains interacted with global mental status, with poor sleep generally associated with mortality risk in the group with better global mental status at first-visit. In four-way decomposition models, total effects (TE) of PSQI scores on mortality risk were positive and statistically significant, while being mostly controlled direct effects. However, among women, the inverse TE of global mental status on mortality risk was partially mediated by PSQI sleep latency and the PSQI global.

Conclusions

Poor global mental status is associated with greater mortality risk at better sleep quality levels and vice versa. Further longitudinal studies with multiple sleep and cognitive performance repeats are needed to corroborate these findings.
A DAT1 gene and APOE ε4 interaction is associated with apathy and structural brain changes in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Malik Rubina , Beaton Derek , Ahmed Juweiriya , Nho Kwangsik , Saykin Andrew J , Wang Jian , Hegele Robert A , Finger Elizabeth ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2024

Background

Apathy in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with significant morbidity and is often one of the first neuropsychiatric symptoms to present in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Apathy is associated with accelerated cognitive decline and atrophy in fronto-striatal regions of the brain. Previous work has shown a link between apathy and the APOE gene in the context of AD, as the APOE ε4 allele is already known to be associated with the onset of AD. However, other genetic associations with apathy are largely unexplored.

Objective

To examine whether interactions between genetic variants related to neurotransmitter systems and regional brain atrophy are associated with apathy in patients with MCI and AD.

Methods

In a sample of individuals with AD (n = 266), MCI (n = 518), and cognitively normal controls (n = 378), a partial least squares correspondence analysis modeled interactions between single nucleotide polymorphisms, structural whole-brain imaging variables, and apathy.

Results

An interaction was found between apathy, the possession of an APOE ε4 allele combined with minor homozygosity for the DAT1 (dopamine transporter 1) gene, and regional brain atrophy. This interaction was closely linked to the MCI and AD groups.

Conclusions

The results point to an association of a dopaminergic genetic marker and apathy in the AD continuum and may inform future design of clinical trials of apathy, as well as new treatment targets.
Biomarker-only diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease: Not ready for prime time
Authors: Castellani Rudolph J
Published: November 2024

The Alzheimer's Association Workgroup research criteria for diagnosis and staging of Alzheimer's disease hypothesize diagnostic meaning in the absence of clinical symptoms. If operationalized, this would trivialize neuropsychological assessment but would also expand the pool of candidates for anti-amyloid therapies. A recent survey of the reactions of clinical neuropsychologists to these criteria suggested that the purpose lacked clarity, among other concerns. Given the current landscape in Alzheimer's disease therapeutics, with substantial toxicity and unclear benefit, as well as the poorly understood relationships between biomarkers and clinical signs at the individual level, the roll out of biomarker-only disease seems premature.
Integrating data-driven and knowledge-driven approaches to analyze clinical notes with structured data for sarcopenia detection
Authors: Luo Xiao , Ding Haoran , Warden Stuart J , Moorthi Ranjani N , Imel Erik A
Published: November 2024

Background: Patients with sarcopenia often go undetected in busy clinical practices since the muscle measurements are not easily incorporated into routine clinical practice. The current research fills the gap by utilizing unstructured clinical notes combined with structured data from electronic health records (EHR), to increase sarcopenia detection. Methods: We developed and evaluated four approaches to first extract clinical note features, then integrate with structured data for sarcopenia detection models. Case studies were used to demonstrate the interpretation of the results and show the important association between predictors and outcomes. Results: Out of 1304 participants, 1055 were controls, 249 met at least one criterion for Sarcopenia. The best performing model which incorporated both data-driven and knowledge-driven approaches to integrate clinical note features demonstrated a higher mean area under the curve (AUC = 73.93%, (95% CI, 73.83-74.02)) compared to the baseline model (AUC 71.59%, (95%CI, 71.56-71.61)). The case study shows that the important clinical note predictors may contribute to detection of sarcopenia such as “cane”, “walker”, “unsteady”, etc. Conclusions: Incorporating clinical note features in sarcopenia detection models can identify a greater number of patients at risk for sarcopenia, potentially leading to targeted muscle testing assessments and corresponding treatments to address sarcopenia.
Evaluation of the reliability and readability of answers given by chatbots to frequently asked questions about endophthalmitis: A cross-sectional study on chatbots
Authors: Demir Suleyman
Published: November 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the accuracy, reliability, and readability of A-Eye Consult, ChatGPT-4.0, Google Gemini and Copilot AI large language models (LLMs) in responding to patient questions about endophthalmitis. Methods: The LLMs’ responses to 25 questions about endophthalmitis, frequently asked by patients, were evaluated by two ophthalmologists using a five-point Likert scale, with scores ranging from 1–5. The DISCERN scale assessed the reliability of the LLMs’ responses, whereas the Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) and Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) indices assessed readability and text complexity, respectively. Results: A-Eye Consult and ChatGPT-4.0 outperformed Google Gemini and Copilot in providing comprehensive and precise responses. The Likert score significantly differed across all four LLMs ( p < .001), with A-Eye Consult scoring significantly higher than Google Gemini and Copilot ( p < .001). Conclusions: A-Eye Consult and ChatGPT-4.0 responses, while more complex than those of other LLMs, provided more reliable and accurate information.
Topic modelling in corpus-based discourse analysis: Uses and critiques
Authors: Bednarek Monika
Published: November 2024

This discussion paper aims to take stock of the main uses and critiques of topic modelling in studies that combine corpus linguistics and discourse analysis. Topic modelling is a cover term for a collection of semiautomated techniques that aim to analyse the content of texts. While the paper does not provide a complete synthesis of the use of topic modelling in corpus linguistics, it aims to give an overview of recent uses and critiques of topic modelling within corpus-based discourse analysis and related fields. Such recent uses include topic modelling for corpus exploration and combining topic modelling with other analytic techniques such as keywords analysis, showing an increasing engagement with topic modelling in corpus linguistic studies of discourse(s). However, the critiques levelled at topic modelling are not inconsiderable, although some researchers do see it as a strong and effective method. One conclusion from the research reviewed in this article is that topic modelling can be enhanced through the use of methods from both corpus linguistics and discourse analysis which can reduce some of its limitations. In this respect, it can be argued that linguists have a lot to offer to non-linguistic fields where topic modelling is widely used and that interdisciplinary collaborations could be a fruitful endeavour. The paper is accompanied by invited expert commentaries written by linguists with relevant experience in applying topic modelling. These commentaries provide further comment on its uses and critiques in relation to corpus-based discourse analysis, confirming, challenging, elaborating or extending the points made here. While this article primarily focuses on corpus-based discourse analysis, many of the points should also be of interest to scholars in other fields. Taken together, it is clear that continued exploration of and debate on topic modelling is a worthwhile endeavour, and that new technological developments necessitate such critical engagement.
Striking the (im)balance – a review of the relative prevalence of meta-ethical models in AI journalism research
Authors: Sigsgaard Malte Egelyng
Published: November 2024

Classical institutionalized journalistic ethics struggle to deal with the implications of using AI tools, as these tools both create new ethical issues, and new forms of existing ethical issues. This paper reviews how the fields of journalistic research, computer science, and philosophy address emerging ethical challenges in the wake of the wide-scale introduction of AI tools to journalistic practice. It reviews the types of issues researchers attempt to solve and how they approach them from the viewpoint of three dominant ethical models. The paper finds that utilitarian - predominantly negative utilitarian - models are prevalent, and deontological and virtue ethical models are not represented well. I describe why this lack of virtue ethics, deontology and/or mixed models impedes innovation with regards to handling certain types of ethical problems in AI journalism. I argue that if these models were to become more prevalent, this could contribute in a number of ways to AI journalism research in the included fields of computer science, philosophy, and journalism.
Off and on stage interactions: Muslim-Jewish encounter in urban Europe
Authors: Gidley Ben , Everett Samuel Sami , Druez Elodie , Ebbiary Alyaa , Emmerich Arndt , Peretz Dekel , Shaw Daniella
Published: November 2024

Drawing on ethnographic and interview-based research in six cities (Berlin and Frankfurt in Germany, London and Manchester in the UK and Paris and Strasbourg in France), this article explores intercultural, interethnic and interreligious encounter as exemplified by Jewish-Muslim interaction. We look at three sites across the cities: “staged” encounters which take place in formal interfaith and municipal settings, and “unstaged” encounters in public and commercial spaces, both often relying on the role of key “entrepreneurs of encounter”, who tend to occupy liminal or marginal spaces in relation to their ascribed identities. We show that the texture and the possibilities (and sometimes impossibility) of encounters are structured intersectionally (crucially by class and by generation), and shaped by patterns of insecurity and securitisation and by different available discursive repertoires and cognitive frames (produced at supra-national, national, local and micro-local levels – e.g. Israel/Palestine politics, laïcité or communitarianism, city narratives and neighbourhood identities respectively). Although insecurity, securitisation, policy panic and geopolitical pressures can block meaningful encounter, emerging transdiasporic cultural formations point towards some fragile resources for hope.
Respecting bodily integrity and autonomy in pediatric populations
Authors: Townsend Kate Goldie , Earp Brian D.
Published: November 2024

Children are treated differently to adults in liberal societies with respect to their right to bodily integrity. A commonly given justification for treating them differently is that they supposedly lack the sort of autonomy that is normally attributed to neurotypical adults. As such children fall through the cracks when it comes to protecting their bodily integrity: they are viewed as less than fully autonomous persons in philosophical, medical, and legal settings. With this editorial, we analyse current treatments of the concept of the child's right to bodily integrity and how this relates to their (developing or future) autonomy on various conceptions.
Cranio-vertebral junction tuberculosis: Uncommon presentation of a common disease
Authors: Chowdhury Souradeep , Vyas Surabhi , Baitha Upendra , Jorwal Pankaj , Soneja Manish , Singh Amandeep
Published: November 2024

Cranio-vertebral junction (CVJ) tuberculosis, although rare, contributes significantly to morbidity. We detail the case of a young woman manifesting symptoms such as headaches, neck pain and pronounced weight loss. Diagnostic confirmation was achieved through an integrated approach of clinical evaluation and imaging modalities. The patient was treated with anti-tubercular pharmacotherapy and mechanical stabilisation using a cervical collar. This regimen resulted in significant clinical improvement, illustrating the potential effectiveness of conservative management strategies in selected cases. CVJ tuberculosis represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge, often necessitating clinic-radiological assessment and a spectrum of management strategies ranging from conservative medical therapy to surgical intervention.
Beyond Cultural Narratives: A Data-Driven Analysis of How Citizens Define Successful Integration
Authors: Lindgren Elina
Published: November 2024

Amid ongoing debates over integration failures in Europe, this article examines an important yet understudied area: public perceptions of integration. Previous studies have largely focused on isolated aspects of public opinion, especially cultural elements, offering limited insights into how citizens define successful integration and perceive policy shortcomings. This article expands the scope with a data-driven, two-step approach that enables an open exploration of integration attitudes, unconstrained by predefined categories. Using open-ended responses, it captures citizens’ views on what they deem essential for successful integration, while latent class analysis is applied to identify distinct groups with shared perspectives. Substantively, the analysis provides insights into the diverse nature of public opinion on integration, challenging oversimplified measures and bringing to light previously overlooked patterns. Methodologically, it offers a flexible framework for examining public opinion, forming a basis for future cross-country comparisons seeking to enhance our understanding of public sentiment on integration.
Acoustic and thermal performance of home furnishings made of blended cotton-jute fabrics
Authors: Mustafa Eman , Mohamed Hatem Kh. , Hashima Wael A. , Abd El-Aziz Manar Y.
Published: November 2024

This paper aims to examine the performance of home furnishing applications such as curtains, floor coverings, blankets or pillows to be air permeable, thermal insulators or sound absorbing materials. Two types of fillers, banana fibers and mini Styrofoam balls, were used in different proportions. Plain 1/1, twill 2/2, and sateen four weave structures made of jute-cotton fabrics were implemented by 12 and 16 picks per inch. The KES-F7 Thermo Labo apparatus was used to test the thermal conductivity of fabrics, SDL ATLAS M021 A tester was used to test air permeability, and the sound absorption coefficient (SAC) was measured using the impedance tube. The effect of different number of fabric layers (1, 2 or 3), different types of fillers between two layers of fabric and an air gap between the back plate and fabric samples during the sound absorption test was investigated. Along with two sewing techniques, lockstitch and 3-thread overlock stitch, two layers of optimal sound absorbing samples were joined together to examine the effect of different fillers on fabric properties. Radar chart, ANOVA analysis and coefficient of correlation were used as statistical tools to analyse the results. It was found that the lockstitch demonstrated better sewing performance compared to 3-thread overlock stitch. For triple-layered fabric with a twill structure, increasing the air gap between the back plate of the impedance tube and the fabric sample shifted the resonance frequency from 1600 Hz (SAC 0.97) to 1000 Hz (SAC 0.97). When using banana fibers with sateen structure, the resonance frequency remained at 6300 Hz but with an improved of SAC 0.96 compared to SAC 0.93. On the other hand, combining Styrofoam balls and banana fibres as fillers with a twill structure shifted the resonance frequency from 6300 Hz (SAC 0.93) to 4000 Hz (SAC 0.93).
Research Progress of Scutellaria baicalensis in the Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Wang Lankang , Ni Baoyi , Wang Jia , Zhou Jilai , Wang Junyi , Jiang Jiakang , Sui Yutong , Tian Yaoyao , Gao Feng , Lyu Yufeng
Published: November 2024

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer stands as one of the most prevalent forms of cancer globally, presenting a substantial medical and economic burden on cancer treatment. Despite advancements in therapies, it continues to exhibit the second highest mortality rate, primarily attributed to drug resistance and post-treatment side effects. There is an urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches to tackle this persistent challenge. Scutellaria baicalensis, widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), holds a profound pharmaceutical legacy. Modern pharmacological studies have unveiled its anticancer, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing properties. S. baicalensis contains hundreds of active ingredients, with flavonoids, polysaccharides, phenylethanoid glycosides, terpenoids, and sterols being the principal components. These constituents contribute to the treatment of GI cancer by inducing apoptosis in tumor cells, arresting the cell cycle, inhibiting tumor proliferation and metastasis, regulating the tumor microenvironment, modulating epigenetics, and reversing drug resistance. Furthermore, the utilization of modern drug delivery technologies can enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of TCM. The treatment of GI cancer with S. baicalensis is characterized by its multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway advantages, and S. baicalensis has a broad prospect of becoming a clinical adjuvant or even the main therapy for GI cancer.
Kinesiophobia as a Barrier to Symptom Management Using Physical Activity When undergoing Cancer Therapy: A Preparatory Study Describing Patients’ Experiences With the New Instrument Tampa-Scale for Kinesiophobia-Symptoms and Interviews
Authors: Bylund-Grenklo Tove , Efverman Anna
Published: November 2024

Background: Cancer care professionals need to be aware of kinesiophobia, fear of motion, in patients undergoing cancer therapy. The new instrument the Tampa-Scale Kinesiophobia Symptoms (TSK-Symptoms) aims to measure fear and avoidance of motion in relation to multiple symptoms (eg, nausea, fatigue, anxiety, pain). It is modified from the TSK, which relates solely to pain. Aim: To test the feasibility of the TSK-Symptoms, to quantify kinesiophobia in patients with cancer, to study whether kinesiophobia was associated with symptoms or physical activity, and through interviews to gain a deeper understanding of patient experiences. Methods: In this preparatory longitudinal study, patients (n = 55, mean age 68 years; 51% men; 38% had prostate cancer, 23% breast cancer) undergoing radiotherapy provided questionnaire data on kinesiophobia using the new instrument TSK-Symptoms, symptoms and physical activity twice (at baseline, T1, and 1 week later, T2). Eight patients were interviewed. Results: At T1 and T2, 4 of 54 (7%) and 8 of 55 patients (14%) reported kinesiophobia ( P = .009). From T1 to T2, occurrence of nausea increased. Of the 16 nauseated patients at T2, 6 (38%) reported kinesiophobia compared to 2 (5%) of the 39 nausea-free patients ( P = .005). Patients who reported kinesiophobia practiced less physical activity (median 0 days at moderate intensity at T1 ( P < .001), median 2 days at moderate intensity at T2, P = .006) compared to patients free from kinesiophobia (median 4 and 5 days). Three qualitative content analysis categories described patient experiences: (1) “Struggling to stay physically active in an extraordinary situation associated with burdensome symptoms,” (2) “Feeling damaged and at the same time grateful,” and (3) “Needing support due to fear of motion and of worsened condition.” Conclusions: This preparatory study showed that the new instrument the TSK-Symptoms was feasible for use in patients undergoing cancer therapy to quantify kinesiophobia, which was present in approximately 1 in 10 patients. Kinesiophobia was more common in patients with nausea, and patients reporting kinesiophobia practiced less physical activity. Patients highlighted a need for support. The psychometric properties of the TSK-Symptoms, completed on several languages, need to be evaluated. Cancer care professionals may quantify kinesiophobia using the TSK-Symptoms instrument and give kinesiophobic patients support.
Preparation, characterization and biomedical applications of electrospun cellulose acetate nanofiber dressing fabricated with silver and bioglass nanoparticles for efficient wound healing in streptozotocin induced diabetic rat
Authors: Abdel-Sattar Raghda , Sharaf Samar S , Gibriel Abdullah A
Published: November 2024

Diabetic wound healing remains a significant challenge due to impaired and delayed healing processes. Recently, nanoscaffold dressings with their intricate architectures gained remarkable attention in regenerative medicine. Herein, electrospun cellulose acetate (CA) nanofiber dressings incorporated with various concentrations of bioglass nanoparticles (BGNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were prepared as novel nanocomposites for possible healing of diabetic wound healing. The prepared dressings were physico-chemically characterized using scan electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The antimicrobial activities for the prepared dressings were firstly evaluated in-vitro and then in-vivo against streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. FTIR and EDX elemental analyses confirmed the chemical and the structural composition of the prepared electrospun CA/BGNPs/AgNPs nanofiber dressings. SEM analysis revealed uniform, smooth and continuous nanofiber (40–180 nm diameter) that showed higher thermal stability as indicated by TGA analysis. The 3% BGNPs and 5% AgNPs loaded CA nanofibers showed maximal antimicrobial activity specifically against the gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (42 ± 1.9 mm) and the gram negative Escherichia coli (43 ± 2.2 mm) which are the main two bacteria infecting wounds. In vivo study revealed remarkable acceleration in wound healing process with 3% BGNPs and 5% AgNPs combination with maximal efficient wound closure by Day 6 without induction of skin irritation. Therefore, the newly designed CA/BGNPs/AgNPs nanofiber dressing hold promising potential for the management of diabetic wounds.
Common carotid artery reconstruction with superficial femoral artery: Surgical steps to use fresh in vivo arterial homograft
Authors: Sposato Francesco , Borghese Ottavia , Tshomba Yamume
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The use of homograft for vascular reconstruction is a common practice in infective setting or to prevent aneurysmal dilation over the time. The use of fresh arterial homograft is conversely rarely reported.

Methods

We report a case about the use of fresh arterial homograft as a substitute of carotid intra-stent stenosis.

Results

We describe the several steps of the procedure of a carotid stent graft explant and reconstruction with the interposition of the superficial femoral artery in a 29-year-old patient presenting with a carotid intra-stent stenosis. One-month postoperatively, the DUS showed the patency of the bypass graft.

Conclusions

Fresh in vivo superficial femoral artery for common carotid artery reconstruction may be considered in young patient as it provides excellent size-match, resistance to infection and low risk of aneurysmal degeneration.
A novel methodology based on long short-term memory stacked autoencoders for unsupervised detection of abnormal working conditions in semiconductor manufacturing systems
Authors: Hosseinpour Fatemeh , Ahmed Ibrahim , Baraldi Piero , Zio Enrico , Behzad Mehdi , Lewitschnig Horst
Published: November 2024

The detection of the occurrence of working conditions in semiconductor manufacturing systems is fundamental to minimize yield losses and enhance production quality. The main challenges are the lack of data labeled with the machine state (normal/abnormal) and the nonlinear time evolution of the monitored signals. This work develops a novel methodology for the detection of abnormal conditions that, differently from the existing approaches, do not require the availability of labeled data. It consists of: (a) an approach based on k-fold cross-validation for automatically building a training set which does not contain data collected during abnormal conditions; (b) a signal reconstruction model based on stacked autoencoders with Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) cells for reproducing the machine expected behavior in normal conditions; and (c) a decision module based on an abnormality indicator computed using the Mahalanobis distance. The proposed methodology is shown to outperform other state-of-the-art approaches in two case studies based on data taken from plasma etching machines.
“It’s not because they’re Gypsy”: Practitioners perspectives of Gypsies, Travellers and Crime and Justice
Authors: Booth Raegan , Koral Kirsty , Lymperopoulou Kitty
Published: November 2024

In dominant public, political and media narratives of Gypsy and Traveller communities, they have often been associated with criminality, deviance, violence, idleness and reluctance to assimilate into settled society. A discourse of othering predicated on negative stereotypes further affect their marginalisation and social exclusion. This empirical article critically examines reflections on, and responses to, these dominant narratives among practitioners who have engaged with Gypsy and Travellers operationally and strategically, in relation to crime and criminal justice. We find evidence of compliance with dominant narratives which include perceptions that deny and minimise experiences of victimisation and racism, while also suggesting a predisposition to criminality and violence among Gypsy and Travellers.
Impact of bimekizumab and certolizumab pegol on efficacy, safety and osteoblastic activity in radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: results from a phase IIa, multicentre, randomised, double-blind, exploratory study with PET-CT imaging
Authors: Baraliakos Xenofon , de Jongh Jerney , Poddubnyy Denis , Zwezerijnen Gerben J. C. , Hemke Robert , Glatt Sophie , Shaw Stevan , Ionescu Lucian , el Baghdady Assem , Mann Joanne , Maguire Ralph Paul , Vaux Tom , de Peyrecave Natasha , Oortgiesen Marga , Baeten Dominique , van der Laken Conny
Published: November 2024

Background:

The efficacy and safety of bimekizumab (BKZ), an inhibitor of interleukin (IL)-17F in addition to IL-17A, has been established in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). Early assessment of new bone formation is possible using 18F-fluoride positron emission tomography-computerised tomography (PET-CT) imaging to quantitatively monitor osteoblastic activity.

Objectives:

This exploratory study, initiated before phase IIb/III studies, assessed the efficacy and safety of BKZ in patients with radiographic (r-)axSpA and its effect on new bone formation.

Design:

Patients were randomised 2:1 to BKZ 160 mg every 2 weeks (Q2W; Weeks 0–10) then 320 mg Q4W (Weeks 12–44), or the reference drug: certolizumab pegol (CZP) 400 mg Q2W (Weeks 0–4), then 200 mg Q2W (Weeks 6–10), 400 mg Q4W (Weeks 12–44).

Methods:

Primary (Axial Spondyloarthritis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) change from baseline (CfB)) and secondary endpoints (ASDAS-ID, ASDAS-MI) were assessed at Week 12. PET-positive axSpA lesion counts and osteoblastic activity quantification (mean SUVauc) were performed at baseline and Weeks 12 and 48 in the sacroiliac joints and spine (PET-CT substudy; not powered to evaluate differences).

Results:

In total, 76 patients were randomised; 26/76 entered the PET-CT substudy. At Week 12, the mean ASDAS CfB with BKZ was −2.1 (CZP: −1.8); ASDAS-ID and ASDAS-MI were achieved by 23.9% (11/46) (CZP: 20.8% (5/24)) and 60.9% (28/46) (CZP: 45.8% (11/24)) patients. Across treatments, clinical efficacy was maintained or increased further at Week 48. In the PET-CT substudy, the total number of PET-positive axSpA lesions and mean SUVauc were substantially reduced from baseline at Week 12 with BKZ and CZP, with reductions maintained or further reduced at Week 48. Treatments were well tolerated with no new safety signals.

Conclusion:

Dual inhibition of IL-17A and IL-17F with BKZ resulted in improved clinical outcomes and reduced osteoblastic activity in patients with r-axSpA, suggesting the potential of BKZ to reduce disease activity and new bone formation within 12 weeks of treatment. CZP findings were consistent with previous data. No new safety signals were identified.

Trial registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03215277 ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03215277 ).