bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy as a treatment option for persistent clitoral priapism: a case report
Authors: Buford Karis , Phung Lauren , Zwaans Bernadette M M , Padmanabhan Priya , Rubin Rachel S , Peters Kenneth M
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Clitoral priapism is persistent clitoral engorgement without sexual stimulation. Presentation is sparse, and therefore limited treatment options have been investigated.

Aim

We present a case report of a 34-year-old female presenting with persistent nonischemic clitoral priapism 5 years after aggressive clitoral stimulation.

Methods

Patient underwent six weekly Li-ESWT sessions at frequency 4 Hz, energy 0.11 mJ for 2000 shocks per session. Assessment included physical examination of clitoral glans engorgement and retraction, global response assessment (GRA) score, need for topical phenylephrine, and ability to achieve orgasm.

Results

At the end of the therapy, examination revealed complete resolution of priapism with a normal-appearing clitoris fully retracted behind the clitoral hood. The patient reported no longer requiring topical phenylephrine, a significant improvement in GRA, and the ability to achieve orgasm.

Conclusion

We present a case of nonischemic clitoral priapism resolved with Li-ESWT. More investigation regarding the utilization of Li-ESWT in the treatment of clitoral priapism is highly encouraged.
O047 Associations between adolescent sleep, mental health and mental health inequities in Aotearoa New Zealand: Findings from the Youth19 Survey
Authors: Muller D , Paine S , Shanthakumar M , Clark T , Crengle S , Donkin L , Signal L
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Sleep and mental health are closely linked. In Aotearoa New Zealand, poor mental health is more prevalent for Māori and Pacific adolescents, who are disproportionately impacted by social and sleep inequities, raising the question of whether sleep contributes to adolescent mental health inequities. We aimed to (1) examine associations between sleep and mental health and (2) explore the contribution of sleep to associations between ethnicity and mental health, by conducting secondary analyses of cross-sectional Youth19 Survey data.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression models were concurrently and sequentially adjusted for social determinants of health (e.g., housing deprivation), covariates (e.g., school year) and sleep (sleep duration; bedtime; waketime) to investigate independent associations between sleep and mental health (anxiety symptoms; depressive symptoms; attempted suicide) and the contribution of sleep to mental health inequities respectively.

Results

The sample comprised 7,721 12-18 year-olds. Independent associations (OR [95% CI]) were found between short sleep and anxiety (1.24 [1.06-1.46]) and depressive (1.75 [1.31-2.32]) symptoms; bedtime after midnight and attempted suicide (1.93 [1.13-3.30]); and waketime before 6am and attempted suicide (1.71 [1.12-2.62]). Māori and Pacific adolescents had increased odds of all mental health measures. Adjusting for social determinants and covariates fully attenuated these relationships for anxiety and depressive symptoms and partially for attempted suicide. Further adjustment for sleep reduced point estimates, although the inequity in attempted suicide remained for Pacific adolescents.

Discussion

Sleep may be a pathway linking social disadvantage to poor adolescent mental health. Sleep and social inequities must be addressed to support equitable adolescent mental health.
P046 Towards defining the sleep phenotype of children with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Pride N , Banks S , Arnold S , Haebich K , North K , Rossi A , Yates C , Payne J
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Research involving drosophila highlight the role of the NF1 gene in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Despite this, there remains limited knowledge about sleep in people who carry a mutation in the NF1 gene, also known as Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1).

Methods

The study aimed to characterise sleep disturbance and its impact in children with NF1. The sleep patterns of children with NF1 (n=93) and TD children (n=45) were compared using actigraphy, sleep diary, the Sleep Disturbance Scale (SDSC), Paediatric Sleep Questionnaire (PSQ) and neuropsychological assessment.

Results

SDSC indicated 59% of parents of children with NF1 and 32% of parents of controls reported sleep disturbances. The PSQ-derived PLMD and SDB scales identified suspected cases, with 5-6% of TD children and 38% and 30% of children with NF1 meeting the clinical thresholds for SDB and PLMD, respectively. Actigraphy showed children with NF1 had significantly longer sleep onset latency (p=.001), lower sleep efficiency (p=.002), and less total sleep time (p<.05). Correlation analysis in children with NF1 revealed significant links between SDB scores and sleep efficiency, reading, executive functions, depression, adaptive functioning, fatigue, and QoL (p<.01). PLMD scores were significantly correlated with pain, executive functioning, and QoL.

Conclusion

This study is the first to document abnormal sleep patterns in children with NF1 using actigraphy. Results highlight the significant sleep problems these children face and the need for clinicians to routinely screen for the presence of sleep disorders such as SDB or PLMD. Early intervention to improve sleep may improve sleep problems and functioning.
O072a The relationship between bedtime procrastination, habitual smartphone use, and sleep in young adults: Results from the Young Adult Health Study (YAHS)
Authors: Bild E , Rossa K , Edmed S , Pattinson C , Mann D , Gadam S , Srinivasan A , Sullivan K , Salmon P , Smith S
Published: December 2024

Introduction

A potential explanation for the relationship between screen-based digital technology use and poor sleep health is bedtime procrastination (alongside arousing content and circadian disruption from light emitting devices). This study aimed to provide insight into the mechanisms linking digital technology and sleep in young adults by exploring associations between bedtime procrastination (where individuals delay bedtime for no external reason), habitual smartphone use, and sleep duration.

Methods

Data from this study were drawn from baseline assessments of a larger randomised control trial examining an intervention to extend sleep in young adults. To enter the trial participants (N=99, aged 18-24; 70.7% female) reported typically sleeping <7hrs per night, and <6hrs on at least 2 nights per week. Participants wore an actigraph for two weeks to assess habitual sleep timing and duration. Average weekly habitual smartphone use was collected from a smartphone application. Standardised measures to assess other constructs (including bedtime procrastination) were also completed.

Results

Later average actigraphy derived bedtimes and waketimes were significantly associated with bedtime procrastination (r=.38, p<.001, and r=.28, p<.001, respectively), however, greater bedtime procrastination was not associated with average smartphone use (r=.13), sleep duration (r=-.13), or sleep disturbance (r=.16). Increased bedtime procrastination was associated with increased daytime sleep-related impairment (r=.45, p<.001), anxiety (r=.23, p<.05), and depression (r=.22, p<.05).

Discussion

Our findings do not support the ‘displacement’ hypothesis that screen use influences sleep health by displacing time usually spent sleeping. This result is inconsistent with past research showing a temporal relationship between bedtime procrastination and increased smartphone use.
Does the Catch-up contribution policy improve retirement preparedness?
Authors: Dao Ngoc , Rao Manita
Published: December 2024

Over a quarter of U.S. adults are expected to retire in the coming decade, retirees with inadequate savings could face financial difficulties including having to rely on public welfare during retirement. Amid the rapid aging of the U.S. population, this article examines the causal effect of the Catch-up Contribution provision introduced in 2001 on retirement assets and nonretirement savings. We investigate the expectation that incentives for policy response vary by household income and if the policy led to crowd out of nonretirement household savings. The article uses data from the Survey of Consumer Finance from 1995 to 2016. We estimate the average and heterogenous treatment effects of the policy on retirement preparedness using triple difference-in-differences models. We find that the Catch-up Contribution provision increased contributions among middle- and high-income households, although low- and moderate-income also benefited from higher retirement assets. In addition, we find no evidence of crowd out of nonretirement savings, suggesting that the Catch-up Contribution provision was welfare-enhancing.
How Do Enriched Speech Acoustics Support Language Acquisition in Children With Hearing Loss? A Narrative Review
Authors: Hahn Laura E. , Hirschfelder Anke , Mürbe Dirk , Männel Claudia
Published: December 2024

Language outcomes of children with hearing loss remain heterogeneous despite recent advances in treatment and intervention. Consonants with high frequency, in particular, continue to pose challenges to affected children’s speech perception and production. In this review, the authors evaluate findings of how enriched child-directed speech and song might function as a form of early family-centered intervention to remedy the effects of hearing loss on consonant acquisition already during infancy. First, they review the developmental trajectory of consonant acquisition and how it is impeded by permanent pediatric hearing loss. Second, they assess how phonetic-prosodic and lexico-structural features of caregiver speech and song could facilitate acquisition of consonants in the high-frequency range. Last, recommendations for clinical routines and further research are expressed.
Femoral shaft fractures in preschool children: external fixation and elastic intramedullary nail treatments in clinical practice
Authors: Guo Jiale , Feng Wei , Song Baojian , Zhu Danjiang , Wen Yuwei , Wang Qiang
Published: December 2024

Surgical intervention in preschoolers with femoral shaft fractures has increased due to the evolving lifestyle. This study aimed to analyze and compare the efficacy of elastic intramedullary nailing and external fixation in treating femoral shaft fractures in children aged 2–5. Ninety-nine pediatric patients were categorized into the external fixator (EF) and the elastic intramedullary nail (ESIN) group based on surgical techniques. Data on follow-up, intraoperative parameters, postoperative complications, fracture features, and demographics were gathered and compared. The mean duration of follow-up was 32 months, ranging from 25 to 48 months. All fractures had healed completely and no instances of nonunion were observed. At the latest follow-up, within the EF group, there were instances of malunion, delayed union, and refracture, each occurring once. One case in every group exhibited a leg length difference above 2 cm. The external fixation group had a shorter operation duration (P = 0.04), fewer intraoperative fluoroscopy times (P < 0.01), earlier partial weight-bearing time (P < 0.01), and full weight-bearing time (P < 0.01), while a greater complication rate (29.8 vs. 14.3%, P = 0.07) compared with the ESIN group. The incidence of pin tract infection in the EF group was 21.1% (12/57) compared with 2.4% (1/42) in the ESIN group (P = 0.07). Eighty percent of the patients’ families expressed concern about the residual scar after removing the EF. The ESIN group encounters fewer complications and positive aesthetic effects, making it a preferable treatment option in this specific patient population and fracture pattern. Level of evidence: Class III, retrospective comparative study.
Pharmacological interventions for patients with chronic primary musculoskeletal pain: disparity between synthesized evidence and real-world clinical practice
Authors: Koechlin Helen , Werdelis Cedric , Barke Antonia , Korwisi Beatrice , von Känel Roland , Wagner Julia , Locher Cosima
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Chronic primary musculoskeletal pain (CPMP) poses a major problem of public health, with high prevalence rates and economic burden. There is a wealth of clinical trials examining pharmacological interventions for patients with CPMP. Nevertheless, evidence from such trials does not necessarily mirror clinical realities.

Objectives:

We aimed to compare data sets from a clinical sample with an randomized controlled trial (RCT)-based sample.

Methods:

Both data sets included participants living with CPMP who received pharmacological interventions. The clinical sample was retrieved from electronic health records. The RCT-based sample stemmed from a network meta-analysis project. The following outcomes were used: demographic information, diagnosis-specific data, and pharmacological interventions (categorized according to the World Health Organization [WHO] analgesic ladder).

Results:

The clinical sample consisted of 103 patients (mean age: 50.25 years; SD: 14.0) and the RCT-based samples contributed 8665 participants (mean age: 51.97 years; SD: 6.74). In both samples, the proportion of women was higher than that of men (ie, 74.8% vs 58.9%). Psychiatric disorders were the most common comorbidities in the clinic sample but also the most frequent reason for patient exclusion in RCTs. The 2 samples differed significantly in medication classified as WHO III (clinical sample: 12.9%; RCT sample: 23.5%; P = 0.023) and WHO IV (clinical sample: 23.4%; RCT sample: 8.6%; P < 0.001), yet not WHO I and II.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest a disparity between research-based study populations and clinical populations with CPMP. We advocate for future investigations on how to implement robust scientific evidence into real-world clinical practice, with a particular focus on addressing psychiatric comorbidities.
Vertex Augmentation With Hyaluronic Acid Filler: A Novel Technique for Height Enhancement and Cephalic Contouring
Authors: Wan Jovian , Kim Soo-Bin , Wan Park Jung , Yoon Song Eun , Cerón Bohórquez Jair Mauricio , Haykal Diala , Velthuis Peter J. , Pamela Ruri , Frank Konstantin , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: December 2024

Height augmentation and cephalic contouring using hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers represent an innovative approach in minimally invasive aesthetic medicine. This study introduces a novel technique for vertex augmentation, leveraging cross-linked HA fillers to achieve subtle height enhancement and cephalic contouring. A 42-year-old male patient seeking non-surgical height augmentation underwent vertex injections with 15 ml of HA filler (e.p.t.q. eve X, Jetema Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea), using a multidirectional spreading technique under local anesthesia. The procedure resulted in an immediate and sustained 1.2 cm height increase with no adverse effects at a 6-month follow-up. The vertex’s low vascularity and favorable anatomic features minimized complications and enhanced safety. This method also holds potential for cephalic contouring in female patients, providing subtle cranial volume for aesthetic purposes. The findings highlight the adaptability of HA fillers beyond traditional facial applications, offering a safe, effective alternative to surgical interventions. Further studies are encouraged to validate long-term outcomes and expand patient applicability.
Uterine Transplant Optimization From a Preclinical Donor Model With Controlled Cardiocirculatory Arrest
Authors: Loiseau Emma , Mesnard Benoit , Bruneau Sarah , De Sousa Carla , Bernardet Stéphanie , Hervouet Jeremy , Minault David , Levy Stephan , Le Gal Antoine , Dion Ludivine , Blancho Gilles , Lavoue Vincent , Branchereau Julien
Published: December 2024

Background.

Uterus transplantation from deceased donors offers a promising solution to the organ shortage, but optimal preservation methods are crucial for successful outcomes. Our primary objective is to conduct an initial assessment of the contribution of oxygenated hypothermic perfusion in uterine transplantation.

Methods.

We performed a preclinical study on a porcine model of controlled donation after circulatory death (60 min warm ischemia). Ten uterus grafts were preserved for 12 h using static cold storage or hypothermic machine perfusion (VitaSmart device, perfusion pressure at 15 mm Hg). Subsequently, they were reperfused using ex vivo normothermic machine perfusion (Liverassist, perfusion pressure at 30 mm Hg) with oxygenated autologous blood to assess early ischemia/reperfusion injury. Not only resistance index assessment and oxygenation evaluation but also immunochemistry and gene expression analysis were performed.

Results.

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using hypothermic machine perfusion for uterine graft preservation, showing improvements in reperfusion capacity (decrease of resistance indexes; P < 0.0001) and tissue oxygenation (higher oxygen level) compared with static cold storage.

Conclusions.

These findings provide valuable insights for further research and refinement of uterine transplantation procedures.
Evaluating the utility of amino acid similarity-aware kmers to represent TCR repertoires for classification
Authors: Kockelbergh Hannah , Evans Shelley C. , Brierley Liam , Green Peter L. , Jorgensen Andrea L. , Soilleux Elizabeth J. , Fowler Anna
Published: December 2024

Insights gained through interpretation of models trained on the T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire to infer presence of immune-mediated conditions could contribute to advances in understanding of disease. This may lead to improved diagnostic tests and treatments for immune-mediated conditions, particularly autoimmune diseases. However, TCR repertoire datasets with known autoimmune disease status labels generally include orders of magnitude fewer samples than TCR sequences. Promising TCR repertoire classification approaches consider relationships between non-identical TCR sequences. In particular, kmer methods demonstrate strong and stable performance for small datasets. We propose a TCR repertoire representation that consider the relationships between amino acids within kmers in a flexible and efficient manner, which is evaluated in comparison to existing methods. XGBoost models are trained and tested on kmer representations of TCR repertoire datasets including samples from patients with coeliac disease as well as participants with previous cytomegalovirus infection. We show that kmers that use small representative alphabets of amino acids are capable of training models that perform similarly or better than kmers based on all 20 amino acids. We find that, for cytomegalovirus infection status classification, defining amino acid relationships using BLOSUM62 can lead to a model with stronger performance as compared to an Atchley factor definition. Finally, we detail kmers or motifs which are important in each classification model and highlight the challenge of training truly interpretable TCR repertoire classification models which, if overcome, could lead to biomarker discovery for autoimmune diseases.

Author summary

TCR repertoire classification models are likely to provide valuable understanding of autoimmune diseases if they can accurately infer autoimmune disease status and are biologically interpretable. Based on a kmer representation of the TCR repertoire, which has been shown to be most appropriate to train classification models on smaller datasets such as those available with autoimmune disease status labels, we investigate whether incorporating amino acid relationships improves capability of classification models to make inferences about immune status, but also consider its effect on interpretability. We find that most of the 4mer-based feature types we tested perform well in combination with an XGBoost model, where some small benefit may be gained by applying a greatly-reduced alphabet of amino acids based on BLOSUM62 for cytomegalovirus serostatus classification. Our proposed reduced alphabet methodology is an alternative to kmer clustering which allows more efficient exploration of amino acid relationships and results in a more interpretable feature space.
Mobile Human Brain Imaging using Functional Ultrasound
Authors: Soloukey Sadaf , Verhoef Luuk , Mastik Frits , Brown Michael , Springeling Geert , Generowicz Bastian S. , Satoer Djaina D. , Dirven Clemens M.F. , Smits Marion , Hunyadi Borbála , Koekkoek Sebastiaan K.E. , Vincent Arnaud J.P.E. , De Zeeuw Chris I. , Kruizinga Pieter
Published: December 2024

Imagine being able to study the human brain in real-world scenarios while the subject displays natural behaviors such as locomotion, social interaction, or spatial navigation. The advent of ultrafast ultrasound imaging brings us closer to this goal with functional Ultrasound imaging (fUSi), a new mobile neuroimaging technique. Here, we present real-time fUSi monitoring of brain activity during walking in a subject with a clinically approved sonolucent skull implant. Our approach utilizes personalized 3D-printed fUSi-helmets for stability, optical tracking for cross-modal validation with fMRI, advanced signal processing to estimate hemodynamic responses and facial tracking of a lick licking paradigm. These combined efforts allowed us to show consistent fUSi signals over 20 months, even during high-motion activities like walking. These results demonstrate the feasibility of fUSi for monitoring brain activity in real-world contexts, marking an important milestone for fUSi-based insights in clinical and neuroscientific research.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow within Ventricles and Subarachnoid Space Evaluated by Velocity Selective Spin Labeling MRI
Authors: Wu Yihan , Xu Feng , Zhu Dan , Li Anna , Wang Kexin , Qin Qin , Xu Jiadi
Published: December 2024

This study aims to evaluate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics within ventricles, and the subarachnoid space (SAS) using the velocity selective spin labeling (VSSL) MRI method with Fourier-transform-based velocity selective inversion preparation. The study included healthy volunteers who underwent MRI scanning with specific VSSL parameters optimized for CSF flow quantification. The VSSL sequence was calibrated against phase-contrast MRI (PC-MRI) to ensure accurate flow velocity measurements. The CSF flow patterns observed in the ventricles were consistent with those obtained using 3D amplified MRI and other advanced MRI techniques, verifying the reliability of the VSSL method. The VSSL method successfully measured CSF flow in the SAS along major arteries, including the middle cerebral artery (MCA), anterior cerebral artery (ACA), and posterior cerebral artery (PCA), with an average flow velocity of 0.339 ± 0.117cm/s. The diffusion component was well suppressed by flow-compensated gradients, enabling comprehensive mapping of the rapid CSF flow pattern in the SAS system and ventricles. The flow pattern in the SAS system closely resembles the recently discovered perivascular subarachnoid space (PVSAS) system. CSF flow around the MCA, PCA, and ACA arteries in the SAS exhibited a weak orientation dependency. CSF flow in the ventricles was also measured, with an average flow velocity of 0.309 ± 0.116cm/s, and the highest velocity observed along the superior-inferior direction. This study underscores the potential of VSSL MRI as a non-invasive tool for investigating CSF dynamics in both SAS and ventricles.
Optimized measurement-free and fault-tolerant quantum error correction for neutral atoms
Authors: Veroni Stefano , Müller Markus , Giudice Giacomo
Published: December 2024

A major challenge in performing quantum error correction (QEC) is implementing reliable measurements and conditional feed-forward operations. In quantum computing platforms supporting unconditional qubit resets, or a constant supply of fresh qubits, alternative schemes which do not require measurements are possible. In such schemes, the error correction is realized via crafted coherent quantum feedback. We propose implementations of small measurement-free QEC schemes, which are fault tolerant to circuit-level noise. These implementations are guided by several heuristics to achieve fault tolerance: redundant syndrome information is extracted, and additional single-shot flag qubits are used. By carefully designing the circuit, the additional overhead of these measurement-free schemes is moderate compared to their conventional measurement and feed-forward counterparts. We highlight how this alternative approach paves the way towards implementing resource-efficient measurement-free QEC on neutral-atom arrays.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The mindful route to ownership: sequential mediating effect of meaningful work
Authors: Saini Garima , Dash Sanket Sunand
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study aims to investigate the trait-based roots of psychological ownership (PO) and explores the work-related mechanisms through which individual traits manifest in organizationally relevant forms of PO. It identifies trait mindfulness as a distal antecedent of organization-based and job-based PO with meaningful work mediating the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were developed using the mindfulness-to-meaning theory and tested using a three-wave design on 220 full-time employed professionals.

Findings

The data was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling 4.0 predicting trait mindfulness is positively associated with organization-based PO and job-based PO. All the hypotheses were supported except relational transparency acting as a moderator.

Originality/value

The results are discussed in light of the genesis of PO in the philosophy of existentialism. The source of meaning is identified as a possible new antecedent category for all forms of PO.
Understanding the dynamics of Muslim consumer behavior: unraveling the threads of awareness, perception, and purchasing intentions
Authors: Bansal Manmohan , Kumar Mohnish , Sharma Somesh , Afzal Anam
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate and understand the purchasing intentions and behaviors of Indian Muslim consumers toward halal products. Specifically, it seeks to explore how consumer awareness, perceptions and attitudes influence the purchasing intentions of Indian Muslim consumers regarding halal items.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via a self-questionnaire from consumers of halal products in India, with a sample of 550 consumers. This study used a structural equation model technique to analyze these data.

Findings

The descriptive analysis demonstrated high religious awareness, positive perceptions, favorable attitudes, strong intentions to purchase and corresponding buying behavior among respondents. Structural equation modeling validated the proposed model, with goodness-of-fit indices falling within acceptable ranges. Significant relationships were found between religious awareness, attitude and purchase intention. There was no apparent connection between perception and purchase intention.

Practical implications

The study contributes insights for businesses and policymakers striving to accommodate distinct requirements and inclinations of Muslim consumers in India, emphasizing the importance of targeted marketing and educational initiatives.

Originality/value

This study may be the first to examine consumers’ purchasing habits for halal products in India’s retail market. The study’s conclusions are significant for Islamic and halal product marketing.
The moderating effect of halal certification awareness on farmers’ behaviour for halal rice: an extended theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Yaumidin Umi Karomah , Yuliana Chitra Indah , Soesilowati Endang S. , Hidayatina Achsanah , Mulyaningsih Yani , Bakti I Gede Mahatma Yuda , Oelviani Renie , Adiyoga Witono , Purwanto Purwanto , Sihombing Yennita , Malik Farmawaty
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The Indonesian Government demanded that all beverages and food products, including rice, be halal-certified. Farmers play a crucial role in the rice halal certification procedures. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors influencing farmers’ intentions and behaviours towards halal rice production.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares–structural equation modelling was used to analyse survey data collected from 278 rice farmers in Indonesia.

Findings

This study indicates that farmers’ intentions and perceived behavioural control have a favourable and significant impact on their behaviours towards halal rice farming. Importantly, halal certification awareness can operate as a moderator to improve the effects of attitude on farmers’ intentions to comply with halal requirements in rice production.

Practical implications

This study’s results hold significant practical implications for stakeholders interested in encouraging farmers to purchase halal-certified rice seeds and sell paddy to halal-certified rice milling companies. Efforts to improve farmers’ knowledge and awareness of halal certification include organising halal certification courses, creating a supportive social environment, sharing farmers’ success stories and establishing support mechanisms to assist farmers in incorporating halal concepts into their businesses.

Originality/value

Research on halal certification from producers’ perspectives, particularly among farmers, remains limited. This study addresses this gap by exploring farmers’ behaviours towards halal rice production and contributing insights for stakeholders interested in promoting halal rice certification.
Flying books: a new frontier of mobile libraries in the era of Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR)
Authors: Ajani Yusuf Ayodeji , Danmaigoro Fatimoh , Ilori Olufemi Olubunmi , Onanuga Ayotola Olubunmi , Amaechi Nkechi Margaret , Ishola Shehu Olanrewaju , Onyebinama Colette Ogugua
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how drone technology can enhance the reach and efficiency of mobile library services, particularly in remote and underserved areas. It aims to evaluate the potential of drones in overcoming traditional access barriers, improving resource distribution and fostering greater community engagement through advanced service delivery mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a qualitative approach to explore the integration of drone technology in mobile library services, framed within the context of the Fifth Industrial Revolution (5IR). Drawing literature from databases such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate and Scopus, it also presents a case study of drone-enabled library services implemented in rural communities of Nigeria. The study focuses on the practical aspects of drone deployment, the impact on underserved communities and the challenges faced, offering insights into the logistical and operational dynamics of this innovative service model.

Findings

The study reveals that drone technology significantly improves access to library resources, particularly in hard-to-reach and disaster-prone areas. Drones offer an eco-friendly, cost-effective alternative to conventional mobile libraries, cutting operational costs by 60% and reducing delivery times by 40%. Despite these advantages, the implementation process encountered challenges such as financial sustainability, community skepticism and the need for specialized staff training.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the evolving discourse on mobile library innovations, positioning drones as a practical and sustainable solution for expanding library services in the 5IR era. It provides new perspectives on the logistical, social and environmental benefits of drone-enabled libraries, emphasizing their potential to enhance digital literacy, aid in disaster recovery and build stronger community connections.
Simultaneous impact of build orientation on mechanical properties, geometrical measurements and surface roughness in material extrusion manufacturing
Authors: Greco Alessandro , Russo Mario Brandon , Gerbino Salvatore
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how the build orientation simultaneously affects the tensile properties, geometrical measurements and surface roughness in material extrusion (MEX) produced parts.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive experimental campaign was designed and carried out to elucidate the relationship between the rotation angles (input), defining the part orientation within the build volume, and the (output) variables measured by using 3D models reconstruction, roughness tester and tensile testing machine. Response surface methodology is used to capture the trend of each output relative to the input, while principal component analysis is used to identify relationships among outputs, providing a holistic understanding of how build orientation simultaneously influences mechanical properties, geometrical measurements and surface characteristics.

Findings

The study reveals that build orientation significantly affects nearly all output variables, with a pronounced dependency on the out-of-plane rotation angle. A key finding is the inverse correlation between mechanical strength and both geometrical measurements and surface roughness. This indicates that optimizing build orientation can enhance mechanical strength while minimizing geometrical defects.

Originality/value

This research, a newer addition to the existing literature, contributes to the field of additive manufacturing (AM) by offering an innovative analysis of the interaction between mechanical properties, geometric precision and surface roughness in relation to build orientation. It enhances the understanding of MEX processes and provides valuable insights into optimizing build orientation, thereby improving the competitiveness of AM over traditional production methods.
Females With Axial Spondyloarthritis Have Longer Diagnostic Delay and Higher Burden of the Disease. Results From the International Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (IMAS)
Authors: Navarro‐Compán Victoria , Garrido‐Cumbrera Marco , Poddubnyy Denis , Bundy Christine , Makri Souzi , Correa‐Fernández José , Akerkar Shashank , Lowe Jo , Karam Elie , Sommerfleck Fernando
Published: December 2024

Background

To assess gender differences in a large sample of patients included in the International Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (IMAS) study from around the globe.

Method

IMAS is a cross‐sectional online survey (2017–2022) of 5557 unselected axSpA patients from 27 countries. The current analysis assessed differences between males and females for: sociodemographic, health behaviors, disease characteristics, patient‐reported outcomes, mental comorbidities, and treatments. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between gender and disease characteristics, patient‐reported outcomes, comorbidities, and treatments.

Results

Data from 5555 patients reporting gender were analyzed: 3492 from Europe, 769 from North America, 600 from Asia, 548 from Latin America, and 146 from Africa. Globally, 55.4% were females, with higher proportions in South Africa (82.2%) and lower in Asia (20.8%). Compared to males, a lower percentage of females smoked and consumed alcohol. The diagnostic delay was significantly longer (+2.4 years) in females, while the frequency of HLA‐B27 positivity of axSpA was lower in females. The use of axSpA pharmacological treatment was more common in females with a higher proportion having ever taken nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs), and biologic DMARDs (bDMARDS).

Conclusions

Identifying the specific disease characteristics associated with gender in patients with axSpA may help to improve the diagnosis and management of the disease, and thereby reduce the disease burden for patients around the world.
Disentangling the temporal relationship between alcohol‐related attitudes and heavy episodic drinking in adolescents within a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Percy Andrew , Padgett R. Noah , McKay Michael T. , Cole Jon C. , Burkhart Gregor , Brennan Chloe , Sumnall Harry R.
Published: December 2024

Background and aims

Within many alcohol prevention interventions, changes in alcohol‐related attitudes (ARA) are often proposed as precursors to changes in drinking behaviour. This study aimed to measure the longitudinal relationship between ARA and behaviour during the implementation of a large‐scale prevention trial.

Design and setting

This study was a two‐arm school‐based clustered randomized controlled trial. A total of 105 schools in Northern Ireland and Scotland participated in the Steps Towards Alcohol Misuse Prevention Programme (STAMPP) Trial.

Participants

A sample of 12 738 pupils (50% female; mean age = 12.5 years at baseline) self‐completed questionnaires on four occasions (T1–T4). The final data sweep (T4) was 33 months post baseline.

Measurements

Individual assessments of ARA and heavy episodic drinking (HED) were made at each time‐point. Additional covariates included location, school type, school socio‐economic status and intervention arm. Estimated models examined the within‐individual autoregressive and cross‐lagged effects between ARA and HED across the four time‐points (Bayes estimator).

Findings

All autoregressive effects were statistically significant for both ARA and HED across all time‐points. Past ARA predicted future ARA [e.g. ARAT1 → ARAT2 = 0.071, credibility interval (CI) = 0.043–0.099, P < 0.001, one‐tailed]. Similarly, past HED predicated future HED (e.g. HEDT1 → HEDT2 = 0.303, CI = 0.222–0.382, P < 0.001, one‐tailed). Autoregressive effects for HED were larger than those for ARA at all time‐points. In the cross‐lagged effects, past HED statistically significantly predicted more positive ARA in the future (e.g. HEDT2 → ARAT3 = 0.125, CI = 0.078–0.173, P < 0.001, one tailed) except for the initial T1–T2 path. In contrast, past ARA did not predict future HED across any time‐points.

Conclusions

Changes in alcohol‐related attitudes were not a precursor to changes in heavy episodic drinking within the Steps Towards Alcohol Misuse Prevention Programme (STAMPP) Trial in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Rather, alcohol‐related attitudes were more likely to reflect prior drinking status than predict future status. Heavy episodic drinking status appears to have a greater impact on future alcohol attitudes than attitudes do on future heavy episodic drinking.
Notes on Two, Inland and Island, Multi‐Species Heronries in the Northern Part of Nyerere National Park, Tanzania
Authors: John Jasson , Irmamasita Daniel , Park Se‐Young , Choi Chang‐Yong
Published: December 2024

Two multi‐species heronries, inland and island, found in the northern part of Nyerere National Park in Tanzania are described. A total of 12 waterbird species were breeding. The inland heronry, located in a bushwillow patch amidst the open savanna habitat, hosted all 12 species. From the drone images taken at the inland heronry, we estimated 3492 individuals for five white bird species (egrets and Africa Sacred Ibis), and 1729 and 160 individuals for the African Openbill and African Spoonbill, respectively. Additionally, we estimated 11 and 55 breeding pairs of spoonbills and ibises, respectively, at the island heronry. Documentation of such large multi‐species heronries is limited in Tanzania, especially in the southern region. Therefore, we hope this note will encourage researchers to explore the region for more heronries because these are important sites for waterbirds population management.
Effects of free and nanoencapsulated garlic essential oil on growth performance and immune functions in broiler chickens
Authors: Amiri Negin , Afsharmanesh Mohsen , Meimandipour Amir , Poorghasemi Mohammadreza , Hosseini Sayed Abdollah , Salarmoini Mohammad , Asa Mohammad Naeem
Published: December 2024

The aim of this research was to determine the effect of free and nanoencapsulated garlic essential oil (GEO) on performance, serum biochemistry, and immune functions. Broiler chickens (900 males 1‐day‐old, Ross 308) were randomly assigned to six treatment diets (0, 75, or 150 mg/kg free GEO and 0 [containing chitosan], 75, or 150 mg/kg nanoencapsulated GEO) in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement of treatments. The inclusion of nanoencapsulated GEO with a concentration of 75 mg/kg significantly increased the growth performance (p < 0.05) of the birds fed the diet containing free GEO (75 mg/kg). Also, GEO nanocapsules significantly reduced serum total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) compared to the control diet (p < 0.05) (42 days), sheep red blood cell (SRBC) antibody titer (35 and 42 days), heterophilus (H): lymphocyte (L), and H ratio, 2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) (42 days) (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the findings show that the amount of 75 (mg/kg) of the nanoencapsulated GEO, compared to the free GEO, causes more growth performance and strengthens the immune system of broiler chickens.
Diagnostic and prognostic genomic aberrations in upper tract urothelial carcinoma can be identified in focal barbotage samples
Authors: Axelsson Tomas Andri , Sydén Filip , Eisfeldt Jesper , Eriksson Ylva , Lundberg Gustav Göthner , Jaremko Georg , Gyllensten Ollanta Cuba , Tham Emma , Brehmer Marianne
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To investigate whether genetic analysis of focal barbotage samples obtained at ureterorenoscopy (URS) is possible, and to identify genetic aberrations that might add prognostic information.

Methods

This prospective study included barbotage samples from 42 patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) confirmed at URS. At URS, focal barbotage specimens were collected for cytology and for gene sequencing. Tumour grades were determined from cytology and/or biopsy, or from radical nephroureterectomy samples. Next‐generation sequencing using a 385‐gene panel was performed and single nucleotide variants (SNVs), deletions/insertions (indels) and copy number aberrations (CNAs) were identified. Manual filtering of the SNVs/indels was performed to identify possible pathogenic mutations.

Results

Of the 42 samples, two failed quality control, therefore, 40 focal barbotage samples were sequenced. We identified known and suspected pathogenic mutations and other genomic aberrations in 36 samples. The most common variants were in TERT (78%), FGFR3 (50%), KMT2D (42%), KDM6A (42%), ARID1A (39%), TP53 (19%) and deletion of 9q (50%). Known pathogenic mutations in FGFR3 were common in grade 1 and 2 tumours, but not present in any grade 3 tumour. No patients with an FGFR3 mutation died during follow‐up. TP53 variants or deletions, as well as amplifications of MDM2, were only present in high‐grade (HG) tumours or low‐grade (LG) tumours in patients who had metastasis/died from urinary tract carcinoma. CNAs were detected in 36/40 barbotage samples, 91% of the HG samples and 69% of the LG samples, including those from all five patients with LG tumours with metastasis or who died from urinary tract cancer.

Conclusion

Focal barbotage samples enable identification of gene mutations and other genetic aberrations that may add important prognostic information to histopathology and cytology. Refined prognostication of UTUC patients already at diagnosis can guide treatment decisions and follow‐up programmes.
Phase II study of perioperative camrelizumab and XELOX for locally advanced gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: He Jiaxing , Zhang Bo , Zhou Shuai , Yang Ying , Han Zhuo , Wu Tao , Qiao Qing , Yang Haicheng , He Xianli , Wang Nan
Published: December 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with chemotherapy have shown promising efficacy in treating gastric or gastroesophageal junction (G/GEJ) adenocarcinoma in the neoadjuvant setting. This phase II trial (NCT05715632) aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of perioperative camrelizumab plus XELOX in patients with locally advanced G/GEJ adenocarcinoma. Treatment‐naive patients with cT3‐4aN1‐3 M0 resectable locally advanced G/GEJ adenocarcinoma were recruited to receive camrelizumab (200 mg, intravenously) on Day 1 combined with XELOX (oxaliplatin at 130 mg/m2 on Day 1 and capecitabine at 1000 mg/m2 on Days 1–14) every 3 weeks for four cycles, followed by surgery and adjuvant camrelizumab combined with XELOX every 3 weeks for four cycles. The primary endpoint was the pathological complete response (pCR; ypT0N0) rate. From September 2020 to January 2023, 46 patients were enrolled, and all patients completed neoadjuvant therapy. Among them, 43 underwent D2 resection. In the intention‐to‐treat population, pCR was achieved in nine patients (19.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 9.9%–34.4%), and the major pathological response was achieved in 25 patients (54.3%, 95% CI: 39.2%–68.8%). The objective response rate was 69.6%, of which 12 patients achieved a complete response and 20 patients achieved a partial response. The 1‐year event‐free survival and disease‐free survival rates were both 93.1%. Treatment‐related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in 42 (91.3%) patients, and grade 3 TRAEs occurred in nine (19.6%) patients. No grades 4–5 TRAEs were observed. Perioperative camrelizumab combined with XELOX showed promising pathological response with an acceptable safety profile in patients with resectable locally advanced G/GEJ adenocarcinoma.
Can Education for Sustainable Development Support Climate Change Adaptation Effectively? A Delphi Study of Germany's Non‐Formal Education Sector
Authors: Lüdtke Kim Alina , Thapa Philipp P. , Zerbe Stefan
Published: December 2024

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) aims to transform lifestyles and societal structures for a better future. Today, ESD often focuses on climate change (CC) and is widely considered as an important tool for empowering individuals for climate change adaptation (CCA). However, the effectiveness of ESD has scarcely been assessed empirically, especially in non‐formal education. To address this gap, we conducted a Delphi study involving ESD practitioners from German non‐formal education institutions. Our findings indicate that practitioners recognise the importance of ESD but think that it lacks coherence and needs further development, particularly in teaching CCA. Respondents identified various challenges, including the complexity of the topic and its association with ‘dystopian’ future visions. For successful CCA, respondents consider the ability to act, self‐efficacy and motivation as crucial. We conclude that prioritising problem‐solving skills and encouraging learners to reimagine social structures are essential for ESD to effectively contribute to society’s CCA preparedness.