bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A DEA Approach to Efficiency Analysis of Major Indian Airports
Authors: Chand Gopal , Mohapatra Dipti Ranjan , Jena Pratap Ranjan
Published: June 2024

Airports’ technical effectiveness contributes to the expansion of the aviation industry. Airports offer enormous potential for any economy. There is a recent initiative by the government to privatize airport operations in India. Private airports need to be technically and operationally efficient in order to be profitable. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is a frontier technique used to assess the technical efficiency of airports. This study uses DEA to evaluate the technical efficiency of 20 major airports in India. It considers the average spending of the airport, the size, the number of parking bays and the runways as the input variables, and average passenger, average revenue, average aircraft movements and freight as output variables. The result observed reflects an increasing return to scale in 10 airports, a decreasing return in 2 airports and a constant return to scale in 8 airports. Malmquist Productivity Index (MPI) applied to measure the productivity index of airports. This index is further broken down into three components: Technical change, efficiency effects and scale effects. DEA implies the highest operational efficiency for Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi and Mumbai airports with greater than unity value. By benchmarking airports for target setting and operation mechanisms, this study will support airport management with better decision-making tools.
Vertical object restraints: Concurrence of wills, hardcore agreements and context in Case C-211/22 Super Bock Bebidas
Authors: Nagy Csongor István
Published: June 2024

Recently, the CJEU handed down an important ruling in Super Bock Bebidas, where it made three contributions to the case-law on vertical agreements and anti-competitive object. First, it revisited the question of vertical concurrence of wills, in particular the notion of tacit agreement. It held that it amounts to tacit acquiescence and, hence, it is an agreement, if the dealers comply with the producer's call; however, silence, in itself, implies no acceptance. Second, the Court addressed the status under Article 101(1) TFEU of restraints listed as hardcore in the block exemption regulations. It held that although the hardcore label may indicate serious competition concerns, it does not imply, at least not in itself, that the agreement is anti-competitive by object. Third, the Court clarified the role of context in object analysis and held that the legal and economic context has to be inspected also as to agreements that are specifically listed as anti-competitive by object in the case-law.
Validation of Chinese Version Social Work Cultural Competencies Self-Assessment Instrument in Mainland China
Authors: Wu Fan , Fu Cong , Jian Miao
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This study aims to develop and validate a self-assessment instrument for the cultural competence of social workers, namely, the Social Work Cultural Competencies Self-Assessment Instrument (SWCCSA), in mainland China. Method: Quota sampling was used to validate the Chinese version of the instrument. Data were collected from 1,000 social workers and students in mainland China to test the reliability and validity of the translated SWCCSA. Results: The Chinese version of SWCCSA was finalized with three-factor dimensions with 21 items after exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis. The assessment presented good factorial validity and reliability. Discussion: The revised three-factor dimensional Chinese version of SWCCSA developed by this study is a reliable and valid measurement instrument for future assessment of social work practitioners’ and students’ cultural competence in China.
Comparative Configurational Process Analysis: A New Set-Theoretic Technique for Longitudinal Case Analysis
Authors: Rupietta Christian , Meuer Johannes
Published: June 2024

In the past 20 years, researchers have significantly advanced various management fields by examining organizational phenomena through a configurational lens, including competitive strategies, corporate governance mechanisms, and innovation systems. Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) has emerged as a primary method for empirically investigating organizational configurations. However, QCA has traditionally struggled to capture the temporal aspects of configurational phenomena. In this paper, we present configurational comparative process analysis (C2PA), which merges QCA with sequence analysis. We introduce the concept of configurational themes—recognizable temporal patterns of recurring combinations of explanatory conditions—to identify and track the temporal dynamics among these phenomena. We also outline configurational matching—a method for empirically identifying these themes by distinguishing theme-defining from theme-supporting conditions. C2PA allows researchers to explore the temporal dynamics of configurational phenomena, such as their stability, emergence, and decline at critical junctures. We illustrate the application of C2PA through a study of shareholder value orientation and discuss its potential for addressing key questions in management research.
Development of a semi-empirical physical model for transient NOx emissions prediction from a high-speed diesel engine
Authors: Bajwa Abdullah , Zou Gongyi , Zhong Fengyu , Fang Xiaohang , Leach Felix , Davy Martin
Published: June 2024

With emissions regulations becoming increasingly restrictive and the advent of real driving emissions limits, control of engine-out NOx emissions remains an important research topic for diesel engines. Progress in experimental engine development and computational modelling has led to the generation of a large amount of high-fidelity emissions and in-cylinder data, making it attractive to use data-driven emissions prediction and control models. While pure data-driven methods have shown robustness in NOx prediction during steady-state engine operation, deficiencies are found under transient operation and at engine conditions far outside the training range. Therefore, physics-based, mean value models that capture cyclic-level changes in in-cylinder thermo-chemical properties appear as an attractive option for transient NOx emissions modelling. Previous experimental studies have highlighted the existence of a very strong correlation between peak cylinder pressure and cyclic NOx emissions. In this study, a cyclic peak pressure-based semi-empirical NOx prediction model is developed. The model is calibrated using high-speed NO and NO2 emissions measurements during transient engine operation and then tested under different transient operating conditions. The transient performance of the physical model is compared to that of a previously developed data-driven (artificial neural network) model, and is found to be superior, with a better dynamic response and low (<10%) errors. The results shown in this study are encouraging for the use of such models as virtual sensors for real-time emissions monitoring and as complimentary models for future physics-guided neural network development.
Urban-Rural Differences in Respect for the Norms of American Civil-Military Relations
Authors: Lin Jennifer , Lunz Trujillo Kristin
Published: June 2024

Democracies require militaries that protect citizen well-being without threatening to overthrow the government or otherwise jeopardize public safety. The military should therefore be firmly under the command of civilian elected leaders, playing a minimal role in the political process. Previous research examines whether the public thinks such boundaries of civil-military relations should exist, and finds that people can see the military as a check to democratically elected administrations in the opposing party. Here, we ask a parallel question: Does place of residence influence attitudes about the boundaries of civil-military relations? We expect rural individuals and those higher in rural resentment to similarly see the military as a check to a civilian government as previous research suggests that rural residents are resentful towards government and centers of power. Using original survey data, we find that people high in such rural resentment are sometimes more willing to defer to the military. Finally, we successfully replicate findings from Krebs et al. (2023) under a Democratic administration. These results have implications for democratic governance and public support, particularly among facets of the public that have lower trust in government.
In Vitro and In Vivo Analyses Reveal Tumor-Derived Exosome miR-558 Promotes Angiogenesis in Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Targeting Heparinase
Authors: Ding Bixiao , Chen Qingwen , Wu Zhen , Li Xiaoguang , Ding Yuancheng , Wu Qiong , Han Liang , Wu Hao
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate the role of miR-558 in tumor angiogenesis by targeting heparinase (HPSE) in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC)-derived exosomes. In the present study, the role of exosome miR-558 in angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo was investigated by cell proliferation, migration, tube formation, subcutaneous tumor formation in mice, and in vivo Matrigel plug assay. The target genes of miR-558 were detected by means of dual luciferase assay. It was found that TSCC cells secrete miR-558 into the extracellular environment, with exosome as the carrier. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) ingested exosomes, which not only increased the expression level of miR-558, but also enhanced their proliferation, migration, and tube formation functions. In vivo Matrigel plug assay demonstrated that TSCC cell-derived exosome miR-558 promoted neovascularization in vivo. Compared with negative control cells, TSCC cells overexpressing miR-558 formed subcutaneous tumors in nude mice, with larger volume, heavier mass, and more vascularization. Dual luciferase assay confirmed that HPSE was the direct target gene regulated by miR-558. HPSE promoted the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of HUVECs, and the knockout of HPSE could downregulate the pro-angiogenic effect of miR-558. In summary, miR-558 in TSCC exosomes promotes the proliferation, migration, and tube formation of HUVECs by targeting HPSE, and enhancing tumor angiogenesis.
Dislodged Endovascular Heat-induced Thrombus Resulting in Pulmonary Embolus Following Postoperative Ultrasound Compression
Authors: Park Danielle , Belkadi Aghilas , Perry Luke , Mendu Mallika , Graves Holly
Published: June 2024

Venous insufficiency and consequent varicose veins are common problems faced by many patients. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available including a minimally invasive method known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Radiofrequency ablation is not without complications; among those are endovascular heat-induced thrombosis (EHIT). This rare complication is typically managed conservatively; however, in rare occasions, the thrombus can detach and embolize causing further issues for patients. A 48-year-old male underwent an uneventful RFA procedure for a Clinical Etiologic Anatomic Pathophysiologic classification (CEAP) 4a venous insufficiency. On the postoperative ultrasound (US) venous duplex evaluation, the patient was found to have EHIT type 1 in the right greater saphenous vein extending to the sapheno-femoral junction. During compression and release of the US probe by the US technologist the thrombus detached from the venous wall and embolized to a right lung subsegmental branch. This case report focuses on the possibility of secondary sequela that may arise from EHIT affecting other organ systems from the RFA procedure, the classification system of EHIT, and management options.
Predictors of futile recanalization in ischemic stroke patients with low baseline NIHSS
Authors: Heitkamp Christian , Heitkamp Alexander , Winkelmeier Laurens , Thaler Christian , Flottmann Fabian , Schell Maximilian , Kniep Helge C , Broocks Gabriel , Heit Jeremy J , Albers Gregory W , Thomalla Götz , Fiehler Jens , Faizy Tobias D
Published: June 2024

Background:

There is yet no randomized controlled evidence that mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is superior to best medical treatment in patients with large vessel occlusion but minor stroke symptoms (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) <6). Prior studies of patients with admission NIHSS scores ≥6 observed unfavorable functional outcomes despite successful recanalization, commonly termed as futile recanalization (FR), in up to 50% of cases.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of FR in patients with minor stroke and identify associated patient-specific risk factors.

Methods:

Our multicenter cohort study screened all patients prospectively enrolled in the German Stroke Registry Endovascular Treatment from 2015 to 2021 (n = 13,082). Included were patients who underwent MT for anterior circulation vessel occlusion with a baseline NIHSS score of <6 and successful recanalization (modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (mTICI) scores of 2b–3). FR was defined by modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores of 2–6 at 90 days. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore factors associated with FR.

Results:

A total of 674 patients met the inclusion criteria. FR occurred in 268 (40%) patients. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicates that higher age (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.04 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.06)), pre-stroke mRS 1 (aOR = 2.70 (95% CI = 1.51–4.84)), transfer from admission hospital to comprehensive stroke center (aOR = 1.67 (95% CI = 1.08–2.56)), longer time from symptom onset/last seen well to admission (aOR = 1.02 (95% CI = 1.00–1.04)), MT under general anesthesia (aOR = 1.78 (95% CI = 1.13–2.82)), higher NIHSS after 24 h (aOR = 1.09 (95% CI = 1.05–1.14)), and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (aOR = 16.88 (95% CI = 2.03–140.14)) increased the odds of FR. There was no significant difference in primary outcome between achieving mTICI score of 2b or 3.

Conclusions:

Unfavorable functional outcomes despite successful vessel recanalization were frequent in acute ischemic stroke patients with low NIHSS scores on admission. We provide patient-specific risk factors that indicate an increased risk of FR and should be considered when treating patients with minor stroke.

Data accessibility statement:

The data that support the findings of our study are available on reasonable request after approval of the German Stroke Registry (GSR) steering committee.
Prototyping and Experimental Analysis of Active Offloading Footwear for Patients With Diabetes Using an Array of Magnetorheological Fluid–Based Modules
Authors: Tiwari Bhawnath , Germano Paolo , Hemler Sarah L. , Koechli Christian , Pataky Zoltan , Civet Yoan , Perriard Yves
Published: June 2024

Background:

Diabetic foot ulceration is a serious challenge worldwide which imposes an immense risk of lower extremity amputation and in many cases may lead to the death. The presented work focuses on the offloading requirements using an active approach and considers the use of magnetorheological fluid–based modules to redistribute high plantar pressures (PPs).

Methods & Results:

Experimentation validated a single module with a threshold peak pressure of 450 kPa, whereas an offloading test with a three-module array and complete footwear validated a maximum pressure reduction of 42.5% and 34.6%, respectively.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, no such active and electrically controllable offloading footwear has been reported yet that has experimentally demonstrated PP reduction of more than 30% over the offloading site.
Responding to Disappointment and Betrayal at Work
Authors: Mitchell Helen
Published: June 2024

Researchers and educators have studied and taught on the employer and employee relationship, but usually from the perspective of the employer, and less on how employees are affected psychologically by leadership and management. This paper examines the employee’s expectations of their employment relationship, consequences of missed or violated expectations, and how disappointments may be perceived as betrayal. This can lead to holding a grudge, an offense, or unforgiveness against an employer, manager, or co-worker. Unforgiveness fosters sin and opens the door to bitterness and resentment. Christians are commanded to forgive, but often proves to be difficult when one has been betrayed. As part of the Holy Spirit Symposium collection of papers, addressing the Holy Spirit, healing, and psychology, this paper will examine how relational disappointments and unmet expectations occur, how they may be perceived as betrayal, and how to heal and forgive in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: comprehensive insights into epidemiology, treatment, and unresolved challenges
Authors: Tashiro Masato , Takazono Takahiro , Izumikawa Koichi
Published: June 2024

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a challenging respiratory infection caused by the environmental fungus Aspergillus. CPA has a poor prognosis, with reported 1-year mortality rates ranging from 7% to 32% and 5-year mortality rates ranging from 38% to 52%. A comprehensive understanding of the pathogen, pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis, surgery, hemoptysis treatment, pharmacological therapy, and prognosis is essential to manage CPA effectively. In particular, Aspergillus drug resistance and cryptic species pose significant challenges. CPA lacks tissue invasion and has specific features such as aspergilloma. The most critical risk factor for the development of CPA is pulmonary cavitation. Diagnostic approaches vary by CPA subtype, with computed tomography (CT) imaging and Aspergillus IgG antibodies being key. Treatment strategies include surgery, hemoptysis management, and antifungal therapy. Surgery is the curative option. However, reported postoperative mortality rates range from 0% to 5% and complications range from 11% to 63%. Simple aspergilloma generally has a low postoperative mortality rate, making surgery the first choice. Hemoptysis, observed in 50% of CPA patients, is a significant symptom and can be life-threatening. Bronchial artery embolization achieves hemostasis in 64% to 100% of cases, but 50% experience recurrent hemoptysis. The efficacy of antifungal therapy for CPA varies, with itraconazole reported to be 43–76%, voriconazole 32–80%, posaconazole 44–61%, isavuconazole 82.7%, echinocandins 42–77%, and liposomal amphotericin B 52–73%. Combinatorial treatments such as bronchoscopic triazole administration, inhalation, or direct injection of amphotericin B at the site of infection also show efficacy. A treatment duration of more than 6 months is recommended, with better efficacy reported for periods of more than 1 year. In anticipation of improvements in CPA management, ongoing advances in basic and clinical research are expected to contribute to the future of CPA management.
Intra-radicular retention with custom designed CAD-CAM fibRe-reinforced composite post-core: a dental technique
Authors: Sugio Carolina Yoshi Campos , Rangel Bianca Tavares , Garcia Amanda Aparecida Maia Neves , Gomes Anna Clara Gurgel , Lopes Adolfo Coelho de Oliveira , Bonfante Estevam Augusto , Neppelenbroek Karin Hermana
Published: June 2024

A technique is outlined for utilising a polymeric composite reinforced with glass fibres in a three-dimensional mesh as a post-core in aesthetic cases. The clinical procedure involves obtaining an impression of the root canal space, scanning the definitive cast, and milling a fibre-reinforced composite post-core. Subsequently, the intra-radicular post-core is cemented using an adhesive resin cement. The use of custom-made computer-aided design–computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM) fibre-reinforced composite post-core facilitates repairability, provides better adaptation to the root canal space, avoids uneven cement thickness, ensures chemical adhesion to resin cement, and promotes favourable aesthetics when combined with all-ceramic crowns.
Mechanical Vertebral Body Augmentation Versus Conventional Balloon Kyphoplasty for Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Compression Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Outcomes
Authors: Macciacchera Matthew , McDonnell Jake M. , Amir Aisyah , Sowa Aubrie , Cunniffe Gráinne , Darwish Stacey , Murphy Ciara , Butler Joseph S.
Published: June 2024

Study Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective

Surgical management of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) has traditionally consisted of vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty procedures. Mechanical percutaneous vertebral body augmentation (MPVA) systems have recently been introduced as alternatives to traditional methods. However, the effectiveness of MPVA systems vs conventional augmentation techniques for OVCFs remains unclear. This serves as the premise for this study.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted as per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies of interest included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which directly compared patient outcomes following kyphoplasty to patients treated with MPVA systems. Clinical and radiological findings were collated and compared for significance between cohorts.

Results

6 RCTs were identified with 1024 patients total. The mean age of all patients was 73.5 years. 17% of the cohort were male, 83% were female. 515 patients underwent kyphoplasty and 509 underwent mechanical vertebral body augmentation using MPVA systems. MPVAs showed similar efficacy for restoration of vertebral body height ( P = .18), total complications ( P = .36), cement extravasation ( P = .58) and device-related complications ( P = .06). MPVAs also showed reduced rates of all new fractures (16.4% vs 22.2%; P = .17) and adjacent fractures (14.7% vs 18.9%; P = .23), with improved visual analogue scale (VAS) scores at 6-month ( P = .13).

Conclusion

The results of this meta-analysis highlight no significant improvement in clinical or radiological outcomes for MPVA systems when compared to balloon kyphoplasty for vertebral body augmentation. Further research is needed to establish a true benefit over traditional operative methods.
Risk Factors and Prevalence of Urinary Tract Infection among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Wachemo University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital
Authors: Ezo Elias , Binora Hirut , Solomon Fraol , Zekiwos Asnakech , Mezgebu Taye , Admasu Senteyehu , Birhanu Bethelhem
Published: June 2024

Background

Urinary tract infection is the single most common bacterial infection of mankind.

Objective

To assess the risk factors and prevalence of Urinary tract infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Wachemo University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Central Ethiopia, 2023.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from 2 October to 29 December 2023. The total sample size was 405 and a systematic random sampling technique was used. Data were entered using the Epi-data 3.1 version and exported to SPSS 25 for analysis. Multicollinearity was checked. The goodness of fit test was done using the Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness of fit test. Binary logistic regression analysis was done, and variables with a p-value of <0.25 in the bivariable analysis were taken into the multivariable analysis. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value of <0.05 with an adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval.

Result

The prevalence of urinary tract infection was 40.7% with 95%CI [36.5–45.2]. Rural resident [AOR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.36–3.96], educational status of husband no formal education [AOR: 3.38, 95% CI: 1.24–9.21], educational status of husband primary level [AOR: 2.94, 95% CI: 1.06–8.18], having vaginal bleeding [AOR: 3.89, 95%CI: 1.78–8.47], having female genital mutation [AOR: 2.98, 95%CI: 1.83–4.84], itchiness around genitalia [AOR: 3.82, 95%CI: 1.14–12.82], and using water for cleaning after defecation [AOR: 0.46, 95%CI: 0.22–0.97] were significantly associated.

Conclusion

Four in ten pregnant women attending antenatal care had urinary tract infections. Residence, educational status of the husband, vaginal bleeding, female genital mutation, itchiness around genitalia, and mode of cleaning after defecation were significantly associated. Therefore, creating awareness for rural women, improving the educational status of husbands`, treatment of vaginal bleeding, avoiding female genital mutation, screening and treating itchiness around genitalia, and using water for cleaning after defecation might reduce the burden.
Tell Me About Your Job. . .: An Experiential and Relational Job Analysis Exercise
Authors: Robertson Kirsten
Published: June 2024

Without updated job descriptions, workers are likely to lack role clarity and the effectiveness of important human resource management (HRM) functions will be hindered. Yet, organizations frequently scrimp on or altogether skip the process necessary for producing those descriptions: job analysis. Many introductory HRM students similarly identify job analysis as the most opaque and least interesting topic they learn about. The job analysis interview exercise (JAIE) addresses these pedagogical challenges. It involves conducting a job analysis interview with a university employee who is working in a job related to students’ occupational field of interest. They use this information to produce a job description and critical assessment of the job’s design, then receive feedback on their process and output. In addition to enhancing students’ interest in and comprehension of job analysis, the JAIE contributes to the meaningfulness of interviewees’ jobs by allowing them to connect with the beneficiaries of their work.
Beyond displacement: The role of real-estate valuations in shaping urban displaceability
Authors: Ansenberg Uri
Published: June 2024

This paper brings the conceptual and methodological apparatus of the relational approach to the emergent conversation on displaceability – which is a novel concept underscoring the perpetual risk in urban environments of potential eviction, highlighting the ever-present tension between belonging and upheaval in contemporary urban settings. Drawing from case studies in Tel-Aviv and occupied East Jerusalem, I delve into two distinct local real estate valuation mechanisms: Tel Aviv’s Standard-21, which assesses project feasibility, and Jerusalem’s Article-219, a directive for appraising unauthorized construction. Set against Tel Aviv’s market driven context and the Israeli occupation of East Jerusalem, these mechanisms elucidate the local nuances of displaceability. Together, these cases underscore how valuation techniques perpetuate displaceability as a consistent and normalized facet of urban development. Yet, the paper also demonstrates how displaceability engenders resistance, as the acceptance of displacement as an inevitable urban reality prompts potential displacement victims to utilize the same socio-technical tools pointed against them to challenge this reality. Beyond a mere global overview, this paper delves into how displaceability is shaped by specific local socio-technical conditions. By emphasizing these nuances, it unravels both the intricate influences of regional factors and the overarching global implications of displaceability.
Flexurba: An open-source R package to flexibly reconstruct the Degree of Urbanisation classification
Authors: Van Migerode Céline , Poorthuis Ate , Derudder Ben
Published: June 2024

This paper describes flexurba, a software library written in R, with the first open reconstruction of the Degree of Urbanisation algorithm to classify cities, towns, and rural areas. The R package offers enhanced flexibility and facilitates constructing alternative versions of the Degree of Urbanisation classification by customising parameters such as the minimum population size required for a city, and more ‘hidden’ implementation details including the contiguity rules and edge smoothing procedures. To illustrate how the package can be employed, we briefly demonstrate the grid classification and spatial units classification for Belgium. In addition, we compare results generated by the flexurba package with the official classification and discuss potential use cases. The package enables a broad range of analyses beyond the Degree of Urbanisation’s original application, including evaluating alternative urban delineations, sensitivity analyses, and comparative research.
Genomes of the Orestias pupfish from the Andean Altiplano shed light on their evolutionary history and phylogenetic relationships within Cyprinodontiformes
Authors: Morales Pamela , Gajardo Felipe , Valdivieso Camilo , Valladares Moisés A. , Di Genova Alex , Orellana Ariel , Gutiérrez Rodrigo A. , González Mauricio , Montecino Martin , Maass Alejandro , Méndez Marco A. , Allende Miguel L.
Published: June 2024

Background

To unravel the evolutionary history of a complex group, a comprehensive reconstruction of its phylogenetic relationships is crucial. This requires meticulous taxon sampling and careful consideration of multiple characters to ensure a complete and accurate reconstruction. The phylogenetic position of theOrestiasgenus has been estimated partly on unavailable or incomplete information. As a consequence, it was assigned to the family Cyprindontidae, relating this Andean fish to other geographically distant genera distributed in the Mediterranean, Middle East and North and Central America. In this study, using complete genome sequencing, we aim to clarify the phylogenetic position ofOrestiaswithin the Cyprinodontiformes order.

Results

We sequenced the genome of threeOrestiasspecies from the Andean Altiplano. Our analysis revealed that the small genome size in this genus (~ 0.7 Gb) was caused by a contraction in transposable element (TE) content, particularly in DNA elements and short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs). Using predicted gene sequences, we generated a phylogenetic tree of Cyprinodontiformes using 902 orthologs extracted from all 32 available genomes as well as three outgroup species. We complemented this analysis with a phylogenetic reconstruction and time calibration considering 12 molecular markers (eight nuclear and four mitochondrial genes) and a stratified taxon sampling to consider 198 species of nearly all families and genera of this order. Overall, our results show that phylogenetic closeness is directly related to geographical distance. Importantly, we found thatOrestiasis not part of the Cyprinodontidae family, and that it is more closely related to the South American fish fauna, being the Fluviphylacidae the closest sister group.

Conclusions

The evolutionary history of theOrestiasgenus is linked to the South American ichthyofauna and it should no longer be considered a member of the Cyprinodontidae family. Instead, we submit thatOrestiasbelongs to the Orestiidae family, as suggested by Freyhof et al. (2017), and that it is the sister group of the Fluviphylacidae family, distributed in the Amazonian and Orinoco basins. These two groups likely diverged during the Late Eocene concomitant with hydrogeological changes in the South American landscape.
Generation of virtual monoenergetic images at 40 keV of the upper abdomen and image quality evaluation based on generative adversarial networks
Authors: Zhong Hua , Huang Qianwen , Zheng Xiaoli , Wang Yong , Qian Yanan , Chen Xingbiao , Wang Jinan , Duan Shaoyin
Published: June 2024

Background

Abdominal CT scans are vital for diagnosing abdominal diseases but have limitations in tissue analysis and soft tissue detection. Dual-energy CT (DECT) can improve these issues by offering low keV virtual monoenergetic images (VMI), enhancing lesion detection and tissue characterization. However, its cost limits widespread use.

Purpose

To develop a model that converts conventional images (CI) into generative virtual monoenergetic images at 40 keV (Gen-VMI40keV) of the upper abdomen CT scan.

Methods

Totally 444 patients who underwent upper abdominal spectral contrast-enhanced CT were enrolled and assigned to the training and validation datasets (7:3). Then, 40-keV portal-vein virtual monoenergetic (VMI40keV) and CI, generated from spectral CT scans, served as target and source images. These images were employed to build and train a CI-VMI40keVmodel. Indexes such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), and Structural Similarity (SSIM) were utilized to determine the best generator mode. An additional 198 cases were divided into three test groups, including Group 1 (58 cases with visible abnormalities), Group 2 (40 cases with hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC]) and Group 3 (100 cases from a publicly available HCC dataset). Both subjective and objective evaluations were performed. Comparisons, correlation analyses and Bland-Altman plot analyses were performed.

Results

The 192nd iteration produced the best generator mode (lower MAE and highest PSNR and SSIM). In the Test groups (1 and 2), both VMI40keVand Gen-VMI40keVsignificantly improved CT values, as well as SNR and CNR, for all organs compared to CI. Significant positive correlations for objective indexes were found between Gen-VMI40keVand VMI40keVin various organs and lesions. Bland-Altman analysis showed that the differences between both imaging types mostly fell within the 95% confidence interval. Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation coefficients for objective scores between Gen-VMI40keVand VMI40keVin Groups 1 and 2 ranged from 0.645 to 0.980. In Group 3, Gen-VMI40keVyielded significantly higher CT values for HCC (220.5HU vs. 109.1HU) and liver (220.0HU vs. 112.8HU) compared to CI (p < 0.01). The CNR for HCC/liver was also significantly higher in Gen-VMI40keV(2.0 vs. 1.2) than in CI (p < 0.01). Additionally, Gen-VMI40keVwas subjectively evaluated to have a higher image quality compared to CI.

Conclusion

CI-VMI40keVmodel can generate Gen-VMI40keVfrom conventional CT scan, closely resembling VMI40keV.
The association among negative life events, alexithymia, and depressive symptoms in a psychosomatic outpatient sample
Authors: Xie Yinghan , Ma Dandan , Duan Yanping , Cao Jinya , Wei Jing
Published: June 2024

Background

Depression is a life-threatening mental health problem. Various factors have been demonstrated to be associated with depressive symptoms, including negative life events (NLEs) and alexithymia. A retrospective study was conducted to investigate the relationship among negative life events, alexithymia, and depression symptoms in a psychosomatic outpatient sample in China.

Methods

A total of 2747 outpatients (aged 18 – 65) were included in this investigation. The Life Events Scale (LES), Toronto alexithymia scale (TAS-26), and 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to assess NLEs, alexithymia, and depressive symptoms, respectively. A stepwise regression analysis model was established to investigate the relationship among alexithymia, NLEs, and depressive symptoms.

Results

Overall, 67.0% of the patient sample had a PHQ-9 score of 10 or higher. The stepwise regression analysis model showed a well-fitted model, in which NLEs and alexithymia explain a total of 34.2% of the variance of depressive symptoms in these participants. NLEs (β = 0.256, p < 0.001) and dimensions of alexithymia (difficult describing feelings (β = 0.192, p < 0.001) and identifying feelings (β = 0.308, p < 0.001)) were positively correlated with symptoms of depression.

Conclusions

Previous studies have confirmed the correlation between NLEs and depression, alexithymia and depression, respectively. In our study, we used a stepwise regression model to explain the relationship among those variables simultaneously, and found that NLEs and alexithymia could function as predictors of depressive symptoms. Based on this discovery, alexithymia-focused treatment strategies could be alternative in depressive patients with alexithymia, but this remains to be verified in the future.
Provision of oral healthcare services in WHO-EMR countries: a scoping review
Authors: Abuhaloob Lamis , Tabche Celine , Amati Federica , Rawaf Salman
Published: June 2024

Global neglect of oral healthcare services (OHCS) provision, mainly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries, exacerbates the deterioration of health systems and increases global health inequality.

Objectives

The objective is to explore the profiles of available oral healthcare services in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) countries.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted of grey literature and databases (PubMed, Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library). Peer-reviewed articles that reviewed and/or evaluated OHCS in WHO-EMR countries were identified. No time or language limitations were applied. Two independent reviewers conducted the screening and data extraction. A third reviewer arbitrated disagreement. The evaluation of the OHCS provision followed the WHO framework for health system performance assessment. The extraction included socio-demographic characteristics of the studied population, OHCS profile, responsiveness, and health insurance coverage.

Results

One hundred and thirty-seven studies were identified. The studies that met the inclusion criteria were fifteen published between 1987 and 2016. In addition, two reports were published in 2022. The included studies were conducted in Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Libya, Egypt, Oman, Syria, Jourdan, Kuwait, and Tunisia. Generally, Ministries of Health are the main providers of OHCS. The provision for national dental care prevention programmes was highly limited. Furthermore, most of these Ministries of Health have struggled to meet their local populations’ dental needs due to limited finances and resources for OHCS.

Conclusions

Oral and dental diseases are highly prevalent in the WHO-EMR region and the governments of the region face many challenges to meeting the OHCS needs of the population. Therefore, further studies to assess and re-design the OHCS in these countries to adapt dental care prevention into national health programmes are crucial.
Nurses’ intention to care of COVID-19 patients in hospitals dedicated to infectious disease in South Korea: application of the theory of planned behavior and verification of the moderating effect of ethical nursing competence
Authors: Mo Mira , Moon Seongmi , Song Eun Kyeung
Published: June 2024

Background

The theory of planned behavior is a conceptual framework of recent studies to identify and explain nurses’ intentions to care for patients with emerging infectious diseases. However, correlations between behavioral intentions and variables that explain them have been inconsistent in previous studies. The influence of new variables might be considered in this case. This study aimed to determine moderating effects of ethical nursing competence on nurses’ intention to care for COVID-19 patients in hospitals dedicated to infectious diseases based on the theory of planned behavior.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted. Data on intention to care for COVID-19 patients, perceived behavioral control, attitude toward the behavior, subjective norm, and ethical nursing competence were obtained from 190 nurses in three hospitals dedicated to infectious diseases in South Korea. The moderating effect of ethical nursing competence was analyzed using model I of PROCESS Macro. Ethical considerations: This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Ulsan University Hospital, South Korea. Written informed consent was obtained from each subject.

Results

The ethical nursing competence was a significant moderator in the relation between perceived behavioral control and the intention to care (B = 0.36, t = 2.16, p = 0.032). Ethical nursing competence did not have a significant interaction with attitude toward behavior or subjective norm.

Conclusions

This study showed that the higher the ethical nursing competence level, the greater the effect of perceived behavioral control on nurses’ intention to care for COVID-19 patients. Promoting ethical nursing competence is necessary for nurses who would take care of patients at the frontline of the infectious disease pandemic. Nursing managers should include ethical nursing competence in the assessment of nurses’ competence and design educational programs to enhance ethical nursing competence for efficient nursing staffing during a pandemic.
Impact of a multi-disciplinary team-based care model for patients living with diabetes on health outcomes: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Jacobs Jacquelyn , Dougherty Alyn , McCarn Banita , Saiyed Nazia S. , Ignoffo Stacy , Wagener Christina , Miguel Cindy San , Martinez Linda
Published: June 2024

Background

Individuals facing socioeconomic hardship experience higher than average rates of chronic disease, such as diabetes, with less access to evidence-based treatment. One solution to address these inequities is a team-based care (TBC) model, defined as one in which at least two providers work collaboratively with a patient and their caregiver(s) to make healthcare decisions. This paper seeks to describe the implementation of a TBC model within a safety-net healthcare setting and determine the extent to which it can be an effective, patient-centered approach to treating individuals with diabetes.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff (n = 15) and patients (n = 18). Clinical data were extracted from the electronic medical record of patients (n = 1,599) seen at a safety-net health system in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The mixed methods study was guided by implementation science and participatory research principles. Staff interviews were 60 min and covered patient care activities, work flow, perceived patient experience, and facilitators/barriers to care coordination. Patient interviews were 60 min and covered satisfaction, attitudes about diabetes management, quality of life, and technology. Patient interviews were co-analyzed by research staff and members of a patient advisory committee. Clinical data were collected at an index visit, two years prior and at one-year follow up (n = 1,599).

Results

Four themes emerged from the interviews: (1) patients perceived the TBC model to be patient centered and of high quality; (2) technology can be an innovative tool, but barriers exist; (3) diabetes management is a complex process; and (4) staff communication enhances care coordination, but misinterpreting roles reduces care coordination. From pre-enrollment to the follow-up period, we found a statistically significant increase in missed visits, decrease in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), decrease in body mass index, and decrease in the percent of patients with high blood pressure. We found that each medical visit during the follow-up period was associated with an HbA1c decrease of 0.26 points.

Conclusions

A TBC model is a patient-centered approach to providing care to patients with complex health needs, such as diabetes, patients were satisfied with the care they were receiving, and the model was associated with an improvement in clinical outcomes.
Weight change and risk of incident type 2 diabetes: short, medium and long-term follow-up in tehran lipid and glucose study
Authors: Asgari Samaneh , Khalili Davood , Azizi Fereidoun , Hadaegh Farzad
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite the high burden of obesity and Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in the Middle East/West Asia region, the effect of weight change on the development of T2DM is poorly addressed. Therefore, we aimed to assess the impact of 3-year body weight change on incident of T2DM over 3-, 6-, and 9-year periods among Iranian adults.

Methods

A total of 6930 participants (men = 2567) aged ≥ 20 years free of T2DM or cancer at baseline were included. Weight measurements were taken at baseline (2002–2005) and approximately 3 years later. Participants were categorized based on their weight change ratio into  ≥ 5% loss, stable (± 5%), and ≥ 5% gain. Generalized estimating equations (GEE), adjusted with age, sex, education levels, baseline measurements of fasting plasma glucose, weight, waist circumference, triglycerides to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio, family history of diabetes, current smoker, hypertension, and prevalent cardiovascular disease were applied to estimate the Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of weight change categories for incident T2DM, considering stable weight as a reference.

Results

During median follow-ups of 3-, 6-, and 9-year, 295, 505, and 748 cases of T2DM occurred, respectively. Weight gain of ≥ 5%, as compared to stable weight group (± 5%), was associated with increased T2DM risk, with ORs of 1.58 (95% CI 1.16–2.14), 1.76 (1.41–2.20), and 1.70 (1.40–2.05) for the 3-, 6-, and 9-year follow-ups, respectively, in multivariable analysis; corresponding values for weight loss ≥ 5% were 0.48 (0.29–0.80), 0.57 (0.40–0.81), and 0.51 (0.38–0.68), respectively. This association persisted even after adjusting for attained weight. Subgroup analysis showed consistent associations across age, gender, and body mass index categories.

Conclusion

Weight gain and loss of ≥ 5% were associated with increased and decreased risks of incident T2DM, respectively, regardless of attained weight. This association was consistent over various follow-up durations among the Iranian population as recommended by guidelines.
What is known about population level programs designed to address gambling-related harm: rapid review of the evidence
Authors: Clune Samantha , Ratnaike Deepika , White Vanessa , Donaldson Alex , Randle Erica , O’Halloran Paul , Lewis Virginia
Published: June 2024

Background

Gambling and gambling-related harm attract significant researcher and policy attention. The liberalisation of gambling in most western countries is strongly associated with a marked rise in gambling activity and increases in gambling-related harm experienced at the population level. Programs to address gambling-related harm have traditionally focused on individuals who demonstrate problematic gambling behaviour, despite clear evidence of the effectiveness of a public health approach to high-risk activities like gambling. Little is known about the availability or efficacy of programs to address gambling-related harm at a population level.

Methods

The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation commissioned a rapid evidence review of the available evidence on programs designed to reduce gambling-related harm at a population level. The review was conducted using a public health and harm reduction lens. MEDLINE, ProQuest Central and PsychInfo databases were searched systematically. Included studies were published in English between 2017 – 2023 from all countries with gambling policy contexts and public health systems comparable to Australia’s; included primary data; and focused on primary and/or secondary prevention of gambling-related harm or problems.

Results

One hundred and sixty-seven articles were eligible for inclusion. Themes identified in the literature included: risk and protective factors; primary prevention; secondary prevention; tertiary prevention; target population group; and public health approach. The evidence review revealed a gap in empirical evidence around effective interventions to reduce gambling-related harm at the population level, particularly from a public health perspective.

Conclusions

Addressing gambling-related harm requires a nuanced, multi-layered approach that acknowledges the complex social, environmental, and commercial nature of gambling and associated harms. Moreover, evidence demonstrates community programs to reduce gambling-related harm are more successful in reducing harm when based on sound theory of co-design and address the social aspects that contribute to harm.