bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards attentive, playful arts-based methodology with children
Authors: Lomax Helen , Smith Kate
Published: March 2024

This paper shares methodological insights from our research which sought to centre children in the production of knowledge during the 2020 global pandemic to consider how this can inform research with children beyond the crisis. Drawing on our longitudinal participatory arts-based research with 30 children aged 9–12 during 2020–22, the paper illustrates our response to the shifting research landscape which included navigating social restrictions to develop child-centred ways of working with socially distanced arts-based methods and technologies. The paper sets out key principles focused on foregrounding children’s ways of knowing and attentive seeing which underpinned our reframing of the research encounter from one in which adults are intent on extracting children’s ready-made thoughts to a space in which knowledge generation is recognised as a process of co-construction and engagement with children. Central to this process is our commitment to feminist care ethics and the application of principles from early childhood research and pedagogy which prioritise attentiveness to younger children’s rhythms and pace. Our aim, in setting out an approach which makes a space for playfulness with older children, is to elaborate the potential of slower, attentive methods and to offer a methodological framework to address to wider questions about what arts-based methods do.
Occupational contact dermatitis caused by sodium tetradecyl sulfate in a healthcare worker: A case report
Authors: Yu Ji Eun , Koh Young-Il , Sim Da Woon
Published: March 2024

Healthcare workers are known to be at a higher risk of experiencing occupational contact dermatitis and attention should be paid to new materials that cause contact dermatitis. Sodium tetradecyl sulfate is widely used in the treatment of small varicose veins of the legs and venous malformations. We report the case of a 42-year-old woman, a healthcare worker, who presented with contact dermatitis caused by sodium tetradecyl sulfate. The contact dermatitis induced by sodium tetradecyl sulfate resolved completely after sodium tetradecyl sulfate avoidance at the last follow-up. Thus, we recommend increased protective measures when handling this substance.
In Search of the “Phonograph Effect”: Sonic Gestures in Violin Performance and Their Modification by Early Recording and Playback Devices (1901–1933)
Authors: Vollmer Frithjof , Bolles Boris-Alexander
Published: March 2024

To what extent did early recording technology affect the creation and representation of musical performances? According to Mark Katz (from 1999 onwards), historical studio environments led to crucial shifts in 20th century violin performances due to the restrictions imposed by early recording and reproduction devices (“phonograph effects”). In particular, this may have affected sonic gestures that include expressive means such as vibrato, portamento, articulation, and timbre variation. In order to trace potential modifications, we reenacted a 1911 “Liebesleid” performance by one of the most influential violinists of the 20th century, Fritz Kreisler. We then digitally ascertained the full acoustic transfer paths (impulse responses, IRs) from the 1911 studio to 20 historical gramophone setups and applied them to the reenactment. In this way, for the first time, our study generated comparative IR findings across multiple gramophones, soundboxes, and horns built by different manufacturers between 1901 and 1933. Sonic gestures were found to induce significant level modifications of up to 20 dB due to the devices’ resonances, leading to dynamical variations that have never been part of the performance. Accordingly, Kreisler's famous “golden tone” is due, in part, to the recording technologies of his time. Therefore, early recordings should not be understood as “neutral witnesses” but rather as artifacts with substantial influence on the creation and reproduction of musical performance(s).
A Rare Cause of a Continuous Murmur in a Newborn
Authors: Pierick Alyson R. , Liken Hillary , Joynt Michael R.
Published: March 2024

We describe what we believe to be the first reported case of a neonate with right coronary ostial atresia with the right coronary artery originating from the left circumflex coronary artery, in conjunction with a right coronary artery to right ventricle fistula in a patient with otherwise normal cardiac anatomy. This was found following an evaluation for a continuous murmur at 2 weeks of life with elevated troponin and abnormal electrocardiogram. Thus far the child has required no intervention and is asymptomatic at 17 months of age, but he will require long-term follow-up to monitor the size of the fistula and potential for myocardial insufficiency.
Shifting the Safety Culture: Evaluation of a Novel Approach to Understanding and Responding to Workplace Harassment and Violence Experienced by Homecare Workers
Authors: King Emily C. , Chan Janet , Benn Adam , Michener Mel B. , Van Belle Travis A. , McKay Sandra M.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Workplace violence and harassment are commonplace for healthcare workers and most incidents are unreported. Normalization of these experiences, lack of confidence in reporting systems, and fear of the consequences of reporting contribute to the invisibility of these experiences. Challenges are exacerbated in homecare settings and for precarious workforces including Personal Support Workers (PSWs). We created, piloted, and evaluated an intervention to enhance safety culture and encourage reporting of workplace violence and harassment.

Methods:

A multi-stakeholder steering committee designed an intervention combining policy changes, a pre-visit screening tool, education, and brief end-of-visit reporting. This was piloted with a PSW care team which provided >55,000 client visits during the 32-week intervention. Operational metrics characterized screening, education, and reporting uptake. Pre- and post-intervention surveys characterized PSWs’ experiences with workplace violence and harassment, reporting experiences, training history and intervention feedback.

Findings:

PSWs reported increased comfort discussing workplace violence and harassment, and increased confidence managing client-to-worker incidents. The screening went smoothly with most clients in private homes. Most PSWs (75%) engaged at least once with end-of-visit reporting and nearly half submitted reports regularly. During the pilot, 21% of PSWs reported incidents and 52% of reports shared client-specific strategies for managing these situations.

Application to Practice:

Changes in comfort and behavior with reporting indicated a shift toward a more open culture surrounding workplace violence and harassment. Tools created for this intervention and lessons for implementation are shared for consideration by occupational health practitioners throughout the homecare sector.
Traditional or modern parents: The nuclear family and decision-making processes of students in contemporary China
Authors: Rodrigues Irene , Severino Catarina , Mendes Carmen Amado
Published: March 2024

This article approaches educational and vocational career in contemporary China. Since 2012 the Chinese government has committed to a model for the development of individual’s career, where the decision-making of students should be guided by universalistic criteria. However, specific aspects and values of Chinese society must be considered while evaluating this model. While doing that through a questionnaire based on the concepts of professional educational guidance, cultural capital, economic capital, and social capital, we propose patterns of parental influence on children in educational and career guidance and a scale to measure them. We conclude that the family plays out a central role in what concerns vocational guidance of their children, but Chinese values may not specifically explain that interference.
Book review: Lisa Mitchell, Hailing the State: Indian Democracy Between Elections
Authors: Kishore Kunal
Published: March 2024

Lisa Mitchell, Hailing the State: Indian Democracy Between Elections. Ranikhet: Permanent Black and Ashoka University, 2023. 320 pp. ₹695.
Bridging the Gap Between Imagined and Plausible Futures for Refugees: What Students Wish Their Teachers Knew
Authors: Chopra Vidur , Dryden-Peterson Sarah , Talhouk Joumana , Geha Carmen
Published: March 2024

There is a gap between the futures that refugee young people imagine will be possible through their education and the plausible futures in exile, where opportunities are truncated by social, economic, and political exclusions. Our study examines how education can narrow this gap. Through interviews with Syrian students in Lebanon, we document fixed and malleable elements of education that refugee students identify as bridging their current education and their futures. Students experience the structures and content of schooling in Lebanon as both exclusionary and immutable, yet their teachers use what we call relational pedagogies rooted in predictability, explaining, fairness, and care to support students’ learning and navigation toward future opportunities. While our research focuses on refugees, it has conceptual implications for educators and school systems in other settings where teachers support their marginalized students to make sense of disconnects between what they imagine is possible through school and their future opportunities.
Comparison the Diameter of the Urethral Meatus Before and After Circumcision and Evaluation of Urethral Stenosis
Authors: Hariri Mohammad Kazem , Rajabalian Mohammad-Bagher , Narouie Behzad , Yousefi Tilaki Seyedeh Fatemeh , Rostami Ghasem , Jadidi Sajedeh , Torabinavid Parham
Published: March 2024

Objectives. This study focused on assessing the diameter of the meatus before and after circumcision to evaluate meatal stenosis. Methods. In this cross-sectional study, boys who met the inclusion criteria, their demographic parameters, and meatus diameter were recorded. Thirty days after circumcision, complications were evaluated meatus diameter was measured again and their information was analyzed by SPSS 26 software. Results. Four hundred boys were studied, and it was found that 41 cases (10.3%) developed meatal stenosis after circumcision, with 85% having a pre-circumcision meatus diameter of 4 mm or less. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation ( P < .05) between smaller pre-circumcision meatus diameter and postoperative meatal stenosis. Conclusions. The study concludes that a smaller meatus diameter before circumcision significantly increases the risk of postoperative tightness. It suggests prophylactic measures like meatus dilatation or applying topical ointment for those at high risk (meatus diameter ≤ 4 mm) to prevent or mitigate postoperative meatal stenosis.
Book review: Deepak Kumar, Science and Society in Modern India
Authors: Choudhuri Arnab Rai
Published: March 2024

Deepak Kumar, Science and Society in Modern India (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press), 2023, 220 pp. (Pb.).
Impact of Negative or Stigmatizing Messages on Diabetes Outcomes: An Integrative Review
Authors: Dickinson Jane K. , Posesorski Rachel E. , Djiovanis Sotos G. , Brady Veronica J.
Published: March 2024

Purpose:

The purpose was to determine if negative or stigmatizing language and messaging have an impact on diabetes distress, outcomes, or care behaviors in people with diabetes. Since 2012, when the first language position statement was published, the way health care professionals talk to people with diabetes has been an ongoing topic of discussion. However, there have been no recent literature reviews evaluating the impact of problem language on outcomes among people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

An integrative review was conducted using 4 electronic databases: CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, and Medline (Ovid). Studies reporting on diabetes, language, stigma, diabetes distress, glycemic outcomes, and self-care behaviors were included.

Results:

The review included 9 studies, all of which were of high quality. The impact of negative or stigmatizing language on self-care behaviors was the most commonly addressed outcome. Whereas some studies revealed no change, others reported a decrease in self-care behaviors by people with diabetes who had negative perceptions of provider messages. Actual or perceived use of negative or stigmatizing language is linked to higher A1C. Four studies reported an association between messages and diabetes distress.

Conclusions:

Negative/stigmatizing language has both an immediate and long-term effect on people with diabetes. The inconsistent approaches to studying language in diabetes makes it challenging to compare outcomes and identify themes. Future research is needed to identify effective interventions to change the messages in diabetes.
Supporting Personal Growth in Childhood, Adolescent and Young-Adult Cancer Survivors Through Challenges in Nature — A Qualitative Study of WAYA Wilderness Programme Participation
Authors: Jong Mats , Stub Trine , Jong Miek C
Published: March 2024

Background

Childhood, adolescent and young-adult (AYA) cancer survivors often experience health problems due to late or long-term effects of their cancer or the treatment thereof. The general population gains health benefits from immersion in nature, and nature-based programmes seem to be an intervention that can promote health among childhood and AYA cancer survivors.

Objective

To explore the impact of the WAYA wilderness programme on the health of childhood and AYA cancer survivors.

Methods

The study had a qualitative approach, with data from individual interviews (n = 18) 3 months after completion of the WAYA programme. In addition, case report data was collected during follow-up talks (1, 2 and 12 months after the programme) (n = 19). The WAYA programme consisted of an 8-day expedition, followed 3 months later by a 4-day base camp. The programme included activities such as hiking, backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, bushcraft and mindfulness. Data was analysed according to a qualitative content analysis. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) were followed.

Results

An overarching theme was identified: “Personal growth from challenges in nature supported by deep connections with others”. In 4 additional themes, participants’ experiences describe how deep personal connections arose, as they developed a feeling of being able and competent in nature. Nature provided a space that supported relaxation and respite from everyday challenges and stimuli, which also led to an experience of being more connected to nature.

Conclusion

The WAYA programme was experienced as being of support to childhood and AYA cancer survivors. The programme provided them with skills and tools to be safe in nature. When connected to nature, the participants developed trust and self-confidence, personal growth, relaxation and recovery from stress. Their engagement in outdoor activities continued after completion of the programme, when they returned to everyday life at home.
Representation in fiction books: Neurodivergent young people's perceptions of the benefits and potential harms
Authors: Webber Charlotte , Santi Elena , Crompton Catherine J. , Fletcher-Watson Sue , McGeown Sarah
Published: March 2024

Representation in narrative fiction can be a powerful tool to shape perceptions and challenge stereotypes. For neurodivergent young people, opportunities to see their experiences reflected in the books they read could have powerful effects on their sense of belonging, self-acceptance, and self-understanding. For neurotypical readers, learning about the experiences of their neurodivergent peers through accurate representation in fiction books could help to promote understanding and reduce stigma. This article aims to provide detailed insights into neurodivergent young people's perceptions of the benefits and potential harms associated with the representation of neurodivergence in narrative fiction books (and other text types). Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 16 neurodivergent young people (14–17 years old) from two high schools in Scotland. Using an inductive data-driven thematic analysis process, benefits (supporting self-understanding and acceptance; facilitating positive emotional experiences; reducing stigma; and increasing peer understanding) and potential harms (reinforcing negative stereotypes; and changes in peers’ behaviour) were identified. Implications for education are discussed.
Quantum Economics and Physics
Authors: Orrell David
Published: March 2024

Economics has long been shaped, both directly and indirectly, by ideas from classical physics. For example the idea, which remains dominant, that forces of supply and demand bring prices to a stable equilibrium, was first developed mathematically using mechanistic arguments, while the concept of utility was related to energy. Quantum ideas in contrast have only recently begun to find some applications in the field. This article asks why it has taken so long. We consider several different interpretations of the relationship between quantum physics and quantum economics, and argue that, while all have merit, what ultimately counts is whether quantum models outperform classical models as a means to understand and predict economic phenomena.
Rare Absent Right Common Carotid Anomaly: Case Report and Current Information
Authors: Koester Madelyn M.
Published: March 2024

This case report provides a review of the occurrence, variations, signs/symptoms, and gender/side preferences of an absent common carotid artery (CCA) anatomical variant. Normal embryology of the carotid arteries and associated structures are also discussed. The relationship between absent common carotid bifurcations and the risk for plaque development is also considered but is limited due to the lack of empirical evidence. This report also outlines and demonstrates an absent right CCA with direct, separate origins of the right external carotid artery and right internal carotid artery from the right subclavian artery. An absent CCA is a rare vascular anomaly with multiple variations. There are typically no associated signs/symptoms, and there are no gender or side preferences.
MRD at the end of induction and EFS in T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma: Children’s Oncology Group trial AALL1231
Authors: Hayashi Robert J. , Hermiston Michelle L. , Wood Brent L. , Teachey David T. , Devidas Meenakshi , Chen Zhiguo , Annett Robert D. , Asselin Barbara L. , August Keith , Cho Steve , Dunsmore Kimberly P. , Freedman Jason Lawrence , Galardy Paul J. , Harker-Murray Paul , Horton Terzah M. , Jaju Alok , Lam Allison , Messinger Yoav H. , Miles Rodney R. , Okada Maki , Patel Samir , Schafer Eric S. , Schechter Tal , Shimano Kristin A. , Singh Neelam , Steele Amii , Sulis Maria L. , Vargas Sarah L. , Winter Stuart S. , Wood Charlotte , Zweidler-McKay Patrick A. , Loh Mignon L. , Hunger Stephen P. , Raetz Elizabeth A. , Bollard Catherine M. , Allen Carl E.
Published: March 2024

Defining prognostic variables in T-lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LL) remains a challenge. AALL1231 was a Children’s Oncology Group phase 3 clinical trial for newly diagnosed patients with T acute lymphoblastic leukemia or T-LL, randomizing children and young adults to a modified augmented Berlin-Frankfurt-Münster backbone to receive standard therapy (arm A) or with addition of bortezomib (arm B). Optional bone marrow samples to assess minimal residual disease (MRD) at the end of induction (EOI) were collected in T-LL analyzed to assess the correlation of MRD at the EOI to event-free survival (EFS). Eighty-six (41%) of the 209 patients with T-LL accrued to this trial submitted samples for MRD assessment. Patients with MRD <0.1% (n = 75) at EOI had a superior 4-year EFS vs those with MRD ≥0.1% (n = 11) (89.0% ± 4.4% vs 63.6% ± 17.2%; P = .025). Overall survival did not significantly differ between the 2 groups. Cox regression for EFS using arm A as a reference demonstrated that MRD EOI ≥0.1% was associated with a greater risk of inferior outcome (hazard ratio, 3.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-12.40; P = .032), which was independent of treatment arm assignment. Consideration to incorporate MRD at EOI into future trials will help establish its value in defining risk groups. CT# NCT02112916.
Hemoglobin Bart’s hydrops fetalis: charting the past and envisioning the future
Authors: Amid Ali , Liu Siyu , Babbs Christian , Higgs Douglas R.
Published: March 2024

Hemoglobin Bart’s hydrops fetalis syndrome (BHFS) represents the most severe form of α-thalassemia, arising from deletion of the duplicated α-globin genes from both alleles. The absence of α-globin leads to the formation of nonfunctional hemoglobin (Hb) Bart’s (γ4) or HbH (β4) resulting in severe anemia, tissue hypoxia, and, in some cases, variable congenital or neurocognitive abnormalities. BHFS is the most common cause of hydrops fetalis in Southeast Asia; however, owing to global migration, the burden of this condition is increasing worldwide. With the availability of intensive perinatal care and intrauterine transfusions, an increasing number of patients survive with this condition. The current approach to long-term management of survivors involves regular blood transfusions and iron chelation, a task made challenging by the need for intensified transfusions to suppress the production of nonfunctional HbH–containing erythrocytes. Although our knowledge of outcomes of this condition is evolving, it seems, in comparison to individuals with transfusion-dependent β-thalassemia, those with BHFS may face an elevated risk of complications arising from chronic anemia and hypoxia, ongoing hemolysis, iron overload, and from their respective treatments. Although stem cell transplantation remains a viable option for a select few, it is not without potential side effects. Looking ahead, potential advancements in the form of genetic engineering and innovative therapeutic approaches, such as the reactivation of embryonic α-like globin gene expression, hold promise for furthering the treatment of this condition. Prevention remains a crucial aspect of care, particularly in areas with high prevalence or limited resources.
Genome mining of Escherichia coli WG5D from drinking water source: unraveling antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, and pathogenicity
Authors: Olanrewaju Oluwaseyi Samuel , Molale-Tom Lesego G , Kritzinger Rinaldo K , Bezuidenhout Cornelius Carlos
Published: March 2024

Background

Escherichia coli, a ubiquitous inhabitant of the gut microbiota, has been recognized as an indicator of fecal contamination and a potential reservoir for antibiotic resistance genes. Its prevalence in drinking water sources raises concerns about the potential dissemination of antibiotic resistance within aquatic ecosystems and the subsequent impact on public health. The ability of E. coli to acquire and transfer resistance genes, coupled with the constant exposure to low levels of antibiotics in the environment, underscores the need for comprehensive surveillance and rigorous antimicrobial stewardship strategies to safeguard the quality and safety of drinking water supplies, ultimately mitigating the escalation of antibiotic resistance and its implications for human well-being.

Methods

WG5D strain, isolated from a drinking water distribution source in North-West Province, South Africa, underwent genomic analysis following isolation on nutrient agar, anaerobic cultivation, and DNA extraction. Paired-end Illumina sequencing with a Nextera XT Library Preparation kit was performed. The assembly, annotation, and subsequent genomic analyses, including phylogenetic analysis using TYGS, pairwise comparisons, and determination of genes related to antimicrobial resistance and virulence, were carried out following standard protocols and tools, ensuring comprehensive insights into the strain’s genomic features.

Results

This study explores the notable characteristics of E. coli strain WG5D. This strain stands out because it possesses multiple antibiotic resistance genes, encompassing tetracycline, cephalosporin, vancomycin, and aminoglycoside resistances. Additionally, virulence-associated genes indicate potential heightened pathogenicity, complemented by the identification of mobile genetic elements that underscore its adaptability. The intriguing possibility of bacteriophage involvement and factors contributing to pathogenicity further enriches our understanding. We identified E. coli WG5D as a potential human pathogen associated with a drinking water source in South Africa. The analysis provided several antibiotic resistance-associated genes/mutations and mobile genetic elements. It further identified WG5D as a potential human pathogen. The occurrence of E. coli WG5D raised the awareness of the potential pathogens and the carrying of antibiotic resistance in drinking water.

Conclusions

The findings of this study have highlighted the advantages of the genomic approach in identifying the bacterial species and antibiotic resistance genes of E. coli and its potential as a human pathogen.
European policies for public health in border regions: no European mindset as yet
Authors: van der Zanden Brigitte A.M. , Hoebe Christian J.P.A. , Horstman Klasien
Published: March 2024

Background

The sudden emergence of COVID-19 in 2020 demonstrated that Europe was not prepared for a public health crisis like this pandemic. In the European Union, matters of health have remained primarily under the jurisdiction of individual Member States. However, certain events, such as the Kohll-Decker ruling on free mobility of health services and the COVID-19 pandemic, compelled the EU to address health matters in border regions. This study examines how EU policies address public health in border regions. To that end, we have drawn from border studies, a field that provides insight into the fluidity and complexity of borders in everyday life. Besides that we used constructivist policy studies as a lens for the analysis of EU policy documents.

Methods

A policy discourse analysis was conducted to explore how European policy addresses the development of a transnational, European public health in border regions. Key European policy documents published between 2002 and 2027 were analysed to understand how policies are constructed and problems are framed. The analysis was guided by research questions and the theoretical approach.

Results

The analysis reveals that, while having limited competences in the field of health care, the EU is slowly developing a rationale and a knowledge base to increase its competences in health care. It also shows that in the field of public health, the EU argues for addressing health determinants and promoting healthy lifestyles, though it does not address health promotion in border regions. The EU’s authority in public health in border regions revolves primarily around addressing physical, biological and chemical threats rather than social health problems.

Conclusion

Though the EU has carefully developed a transnational perspective on health care, the EU has not developed any authority with respect to transnational public health. Though public health and health promotion in border regions have been confronted with specific challenges, neither specific Member States nor the EU have a transnational collaborative perspective that does justice to the characteristics of border regions. When it comes to public health in border regions, there is no European mindset as yet.
The role of Bach2 in regulating CD8 + T cell development and function
Authors: Weng Xinyu , Zheng Min , Liu Yanning , Lou Guohua
Published: March 2024

Bach2 was initially discovered in B cells, where it was revealed to control the transcription involved in cell differentiation. Bach2 is intimately connected to CD8 + T lymphocytes in various differentiation states and subsets according to recent findings. Bach2 can regulate primitive T cells, stimulate the development and differentiation of memory CD8 + T cells, inhibit the differentiation of effector CD8 + T cells, and play a significant role in the exhaustion of CD8 + T cells. The appearance and development of diseases are tightly linked to irregular CD8 + T cell differentiation and function. Accordingly, Bach2 offers novel approaches and possible targets for the clinical treatment of associated disorders based on research on these pathways. Here, we summarize the role of Bach2 in the function and differentiation of CD8 + T cells and its potential clinical applications.
Histological criteria for selecting patients who need clonality test for non-gastric MALT lymphoma diagnosis
Authors: Park Dajeong , Cho Junhun
Published: March 2024

The histological diagnosis of extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) is difficult for pathologists. Recently, digital pathology systems have been widely used to provide tools that can objectively measure lesions on slides. In this study, we measured the extent of marginal zone expansion in suspected MALT lymphoma cases and compared the results with those of a molecular clonality test. In total, 115 patients who underwent an IGH gene rearrangement test for suspected MALT lymphoma were included in this study. All cases were histologically classified into three patterns; “small lymphoid aggregates with no germinal center (Pattern 1),” “lymphoid follicles with germinal center (Pattern 2)” and " fused marginal zone or diffuse small lymphocytic proliferation (Pattern 3).” The proportions of monoclonality in Pattern 1, 2, and 3 were 25.0%, 55.0%, and 97.9%, respectively. The ratios of marginal zone thickness to germinal center diameter and entire lymphoid follicle area to germinal center area were measured in Pattern 2 cases using a digital pathology system. Combining the width cutoff of 1.5 and the areal cutoff of 3.5, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for MALT lymphoma were 96.97%, 70.37%, 80.00%, and 95.00%, respectively. In conclusion, through objective measurement of the marginal zone, suspected cases of MALT lymphoma requiring a molecular clonality test can be effectively selected.
Collaborative game-based task offloading scheme in the UAV-TB-assisted battlefield network platform
Authors: Kim Sungwook
Published: March 2024

In the sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks, the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and tethered balloons (TBs) to assist cellular networks has attracted considerable attentions due to their dynamic and quick deployment with their relative low cost. In this article, we propose a new task offloading scheme for smart devices in the modern battlefield area. By the integrative platform of TBs, UAVs and smart devices, the main challenges are (i) providing a task splitting algorithm for the partial offloading service, and (ii) develop a TB resource sharing algorithm to handle the offloading requests. For convenient wireless communications, UAVs work as relay nodes between TBs and individual devices. To achieve a mutually desirable solution, our proposed scheme is formulated as cooperative game models. First, the sequential Raiffa bargaining solution is applied to split the computation-intensive task of each smart device in the battlefield area. Second, the average-surplus value is adopted to effectively share the TB computing resource. Based on the reciprocal combination of two cooperative game solutions, we explore the sequential interaction of TBs, UAVs and battlefield devices, and jointly design our integrated control scheme for offloading services. According to the synergy effect, our hybrid approach can provide a fair-efficient solution in the UAV-TB-assisted battlefield network infrastructure. Finally, extensive simulations are conducted, and the results demonstrate the superiority of our proposed scheme over the existing baseline protocols.
Low Ankle-GO Score While Returning to Sport After Lateral Ankle Sprain Leads to a 9-fold Increased Risk of Recurrence: A Two-year Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Picot Brice , Fourchet François , Lopes Ronny , Rauline Gauthier , Freiha Kinan , D’hooghe Pieter , Valentin Eugénie , Hardy Alexandre
Published: March 2024

Background

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is the most common sports injury, leading to a high rate of recurrence and the development of chronic ankle instability. One possible explanation is the lack of objective, evidence-based criteria to inform return to sport decisions following LAS. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the efficacy of a new functional score to distinguish patients at risk of recurrent LAS within two years after the initial injury.

Methods

The Ankle-GO score was used in 64 active patients two months after LAS. This composite score includes 2 self-reported questionnaires and 4 functional tests, for a maximum score of 25 points. The rate of reinjury was prospectively recorded 2 years after inclusion. Potential predictive variables for reinjury were tested using the Chi-square and independent t-tests. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) with the optimal cut-off score was determined to assess the predictive value of the Ankle-GO score for the risk of reinjury. Multivariate logistic regression was then used to determine the influence of risk factors of reinjury.

Results

Fifty-four (85%) patients were included (23 men and 31 women, 34.7 ± 13 years old) including 18 (33.3%) with a reinjury. The two-month Ankle-GO score was lower in patients with a recurrent LAS (5.4 ± 2.8 points vs. 9.1 ± 4.5, p = 0.002) and predicted the risk of reinjury (AUC = 0.75). Patients with < 8 points were found to have a significantly higher risk of reinjury (OR = 8.6; 95%CI: 2-37.2, p = 0.001). Women also tend to have a higher risk of recurrence (OR = 3.8; 95%CI: 0.9–15.5, p = 0.065).

Conclusion

The Ankle-GO score is a new objective criterion for RTS after LAS. Patients with a low score at two months have a 9-fold greater risk of recurrence within two years.
Towards teaching-sensitive technology: a hermeneutic analysis of higher education teaching
Authors: Stenalt Maria Hvid , Mathiasen Helle
Published: March 2024

Integrating digital technologies to benefit teaching and learning has long been driving higher education. The uptake of technology has been supported by teacher training focused on developing teachers’ capabilities to design for learning. However, in this paper, we raise the point of moving towards teaching-sensitive technology as a clear alternative to current strategies focusing on teachers’ mental processes. To develop this point, the paper offers a qualitative study that explores teaching to identify critical features of technology supporting teachers’ work. Analysing teaching from a hermeneutic perspective, we arrive at six fundamental dynamics within which teachers operate. Based on the factors identified, we present three principles to guide future design of technologies for teaching and two approaches to designing technology sensitive to teachers’ values.
Causal relationship between hypertension and epilepsy: a mendelian randomization study
Authors: Sun Zhen , Jiang Tong , Zhang Mengwen , Li Yulong , Zhang Jing , Sun Yanping , Yu Xiaofeng
Published: March 2024

Background

Recent studies suggest that hypertension may increase the risk of epilepsy onset, revealing intricate interactions between cardiovascular health and neurological disorders, thus emphasizing the significance of conducting further investigations into their connection. This study aimed to investigate the potential causality between hypertension, either in systolic or diastolic blood pressure, and epilepsy, using a Mendelian randomization strategy.

Methods

A two-sample Mendelian randomization design was used in this study. We extracted data from the UK Biobank, FinnGen, and the International Consortium of Blood Pressure, utilizing blood pressure-related single nucleotide polymorphisms as instrumental variables to evaluate the influence of hypertension on the risk of epilepsy. Inverse variance weighted, weighted median, and MR-Egger approaches were used for analysis.

Results

There was a potential association between hypertension, primarily in systolic blood pressure, and an elevated epilepsy risk, while the relationship between hypertension in diastolic blood pressure and epilepsy risk remained inconclusive. Sensitivity analyses suggest an absence of substantial heterogeneity and confounding effects, suggesting the reliability of our findings.

Conclusions

Our study lays the groundwork for further investigations into the mechanisms of this causal relationship, which may potentially involve vascular change, neuroinflammatory pathways, and alterations in cerebral blood flow, which are crucial for understanding the complex hypertension-epilepsy nexus.
Enhanced resource allocation strategies to improve the spectral efficiency in massive MIMO systems
Authors: Misso Angelina
Published: March 2024

The accuracy of the channel state information is important for correct channel estimation. However, when conducting channel estimation, more resources are allocated to pilots for estimation compared to data transmission. Furthermore, when the number of users increases, the number of pilots for estimation increases. Subsequently, there is an increase in the transmission overhead and hence reduces the spectral efficiency. Therefore, the advantage of obtaining channel state information is significantly reduced. To improve the performance of massive MIMO systems, the study analyses the tradeoff between the number of resources required to correctly estimate the channel using pilots to avoid interference while maintaining optimum spectral efficiency in massive MIMO antennas. Therefore, this study proposes an algorithm to address the challenge of optimum resource allocation in a massive MIMO. Pilot Frequency reuse, max–min fairness algorithm, and Zadoff–Chu sequences were adopted to achieve optimal allocation of resources and reduce interference for users in different cells using the same frequencies. The results reveal improved performance in terms of spectral efficiency with the adoption of the resource optimization approach. The study contributes to the performance improvement of massive MIMO antennas for 5 G communications.
Genotype–phenotype correlation of fecal Streptococcus regulator (fsr) locus with gelatinase activity and biofilm formation intensity in clinical E. faecalis isolates
Authors: Abdelrahman Khaled A. , Kashef Mona T. , Aziz Ramy K. , Hashem Yomna A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Enterococci, known for their disturbing involvement in nosocomial infections, possess a diverse set of virulence factors, regulated by multiple genes. A key virulence regulator is the fecal Streptococcus regulator (Fsr) quorum sensing system. Multiple reports describe the involvement of fsr genes in several virulence mechanisms, notably gelatinase production and biofilm formation; however, the presence of fsr genes does not necessarily predict those virulence phenotypes. This study investigates the factors affecting the relation between molecular detection of fsr genes and accurate prediction of gelatinase activity and biofilm formation intensity.

Methods

One hundred enterococcal samples were collected from patients suffering from urinary tract infections. The isolates were identified through the use of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique targeting the ddl gene. Biofilm formation was quantified by the crystal violet assay, while gelatinase activity was evaluated on gelatin agar plates. PCR was used to detect the fsrA and fsrB genes, as well as the gelatinase enzyme-encoding gene (gelE).

Results

Out of the collected 100 isolates, 93% were identified as Enterococcus faecalis. The isolates formed biofilm with different intensities: 47% were strong biofilm producers, 28% moderate, and 21% weak, while only four isolates (4%) did not form biofilm. Only 14% of all isolates had detectable gelatinase activity. The fsrA and fsrB genes were detected in 26% and 28% of the tested isolates, respectively, while gelE was detected in 57% of the isolates. Whereas no association was found between biofilm formation intensity and fsr locus genes or gelatinase activity, a strong positive correlation (r = 1) was found between the detection of both fsrA and fsrB genes and the gelatinase activity.

Conclusion

fsrA and fsrB have a diagnostic value and may be used as biomarkers for gelatinase activity in E. faecalis.
Epidemiology, risk factors, outcomes, and role of Serpin A3 as a biomarker for transition of acute kidney injury to chronic kidney disease in critically ill patients
Authors: Khairallah Marwa K. , Gaber Asmaa A. , Maghraby Mohammed H. , Dahpy Marwa A. , Parmer Simran Singh , Mostafa Mohammed H.
Published: March 2024

Background

Several studies have suggested a causal link between acute kidney injury and the consequent development of chronic kidney disease. The severity, frequency, and duration of acute injury are key factors in this process.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the epidemiology and outcomes of AKI to CKD transition in critically ill adult patients and to study the role of Serpin-A3 in the early recognition of AKI to CKD transition.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, a total of 252 patients attending Assiut University Hospitals Critical Care Unit and developed AKI during their stay were recruited. Serum and urinary Serpin A3 were measured by ELISA Kit. Complete blood picture, kidney function tests, urine analysis, serum electrolytes (serum sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium), liver function test, coagulation profile, C-reactive protein, 24-h urinary protein or urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, abdominal ultrasound were assessed for all the recruited participants. Follow-up was done for three consecutive months and after 3 months using serum creatinine, BUN, and serum potassium.

Results

It was found that old age is a risk factor for CKD following AKI, i.e., with 1-year increase in the patient’s age, there was 3% increase in the chance of transition. Significant association was found between rate of comorbidity and transition status. Also, cases with either infection or IV radio contrast exposure were 2.8 and 6.5 times more liable for transition. Cases with transition in this study had significantly higher renal function parameters. Higher median levels of Serpin A3 either serum or urinary was reported in transition patients. Improvement was reported in two-third of those without transition, and higher mortality rate was recorded in those without transition.

Conclusion

The frequency of transition was 20%. Older age, male gender, cardiac and CVS disease, the presence of infection, higher BUN and creatinine level, higher median K and PO4 levels, and higher median levels of Serpin A3 are risk factors for transition from AKI to CKD.
Quantifying the Association Between Surgical Spine Approach and Tracheostomy Timing After Traumatic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Essa Ahmad , Shakil Husain , Malhotra Armaan K. , Byrne James P. , Badhiwala Jetan , Yuan Eva Y. , He Yingshi , Jack Andrew S. , Mathieu Francois , Wilson Jefferson R. , Witiw Christopher D.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Recent evidence suggests earlier tracheostomy is associated with fewer complications in patients with complete cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). This study aims to evaluate the influence of spine surgical approach on the association between tracheostomy timing and in-hospital adverse events treating patients with complete cervical SCI.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study was performed using Trauma Quality Improvement Program data from 2017 to 2020. All patients with acute complete (American Spinal Injury Association-A) cervical SCI who underwent tracheostomy and spine surgery were included. Tracheostomy timing was dichotomized to early (within 1 week after surgery) and delayed (more than 1 week after surgery). Primary outcome was the occurrence of major in-hospital complications. Secondary outcomes included occurrences of immobility-related complications, surgical-site infection, hospital and intensive care unit length of stay, and time on mechanical ventilation.

RESULTS:

The study included 1592 patients across 358 trauma centers. Mean time to tracheostomy from surgery was 8.6 days. A total of 495 patients underwent anterior approach, 670 underwent posterior approach, and 427 underwent combined anterior and posterior approach. Patients who underwent anterior approach were significantly more likely to have delayed tracheostomy compared with posterior approach (53% vs 40%, P < .001). Early tracheotomy significantly reduced major in-hospital complications (odds ratio 0.67, 95% CI 0.53-0.84) and immobility complications (odds ratio = 0.78, 95% CI 0.6-1.0). Those undergoing early tracheostomy spent 6.0 (95% CI −8.47 to −3.43) fewer days in hospital, 5.7 (95% CI −7.8 to −3.7) fewer days in the intensive care unit, and 5.9 (95% CI −8.2 to −3.7) fewer days ventilated. Surgical approach had no significant negative effect on the association between tracheostomy timing and the outcomes of interest.

CONCLUSION:

Earlier tracheostomy for patients with cervical SCI is associated with reduced complications, length of stay, and ventilation time. This relationship appears independent of the surgical approach. These findings emphasize that tracheostomy need not be delayed because of the SCI treatment approach.
Foxp and Skor family proteins control differentiation of Purkinje cells from Ptf1a- and Neurog1-expressing progenitors in zebrafish
Authors: Itoh Tsubasa , Uehara Mari , Yura Shinnosuke , Wang Jui Chun , Fujii Yukimi , Nakanishi Akiko , Shimizu Takashi , Hibi Masahiko
Published: March 2024

Cerebellar neurons, such as GABAergic Purkinje cells (PCs), interneurons (INs) and glutamatergic granule cells (GCs) are differentiated from neural progenitors expressing proneural genes, including ptf1a, neurog1 and atoh1a/b/c. Studies in mammals previously suggested that these genes determine cerebellar neuron cell fate. However, our studies on ptf1a;neurog1 zebrafish mutants and lineage tracing of ptf1a-expressing progenitors have revealed that the ptf1a/neurog1-expressing progenitors can generate diverse cerebellar neurons, including PCs, INs and a subset of GCs in zebrafish. The precise mechanisms of how each cerebellar neuron type is specified remains elusive. We found that genes encoding the transcriptional regulators Foxp1b, Foxp4, Skor1b and Skor2, which are reportedly expressed in PCs, were absent in ptf1a;neurog1 mutants. foxp1b;foxp4 mutants showed a strong reduction in PCs, whereas skor1b;skor2 mutants completely lacked PCs, and displayed an increase in immature GCs. Misexpression of skor2 in GC progenitors expressing atoh1c suppressed GC fate. These data indicate that Foxp1b/4 and Skor1b/2 function as key transcriptional regulators in the initial step of PC differentiation from ptf1a/neurog1-expressing neural progenitors, and that Skor1b and Skor2 control PC differentiation by suppressing their differentiation into GCs.