bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cross-Cultural Study on the Effects of Government Control Policies on Mobility in COVID-19
Authors: Lee JungWon , Kim OhSung , Park Cheol
Published: April 2024

This study sought to explore the impact of government policies aimed at reducing the spread of COVID-19, such as social distancing and quarantine, on the reduction in the mobility of people and the role of national culture in moderating this effect. To test this hypothesis, this study collected 21,150 sets of data from 57 countries worldwide and analyzed them using a multilevel growth model. In addition, the number of COVID-19-infected people, the number of people vaccinated, number of days since the first COVID-19, median age by country, population density, total population, and GDP per capita, which can affect mobility, were added as control variables in the study model. Notably, the results of our analysis revealed that the stringency of government policies had a negative effect on mobility and that this effect differed according to cultural characteristics. The findings of the current study have the following implications. First, differences between countries were explained by exploring the effectiveness of government policies in preventing the increase in infectious diseases based on a cultural perspective. Second, the results of this study provide policy implications that international policy makers can refer to apart from the context of the COVID-19 epidemic by presenting country-specific differences in government policies.
Optimal solution of nonlinear 2D variable-order fractional optimal control problems using generalized Bessel polynomials
Authors: Avazzadeh Z , Hassani H , Bayati Eshkaftaki A , Ebadi MJ , Agarwal P
Published: April 2024

This study aims to propose a new optimization method based on the generalized Bessel polynomials (GBPs) as a class of basis functions for a category of nonlinear two-dimensional variable-order fractional optimal control problems (N-2D-VOFOCPs) involved in fractional-order dynamical systems and Caputo derivatives. For the optimal solution of such problems, the optimization method is developed on the basis of operational matrices (OMs) scheme of derivatives, 2D Gauss–Legendre quadrature rule, and Lagrange multiplier technique. The state and control functions are expanded in terms of the GBPs to reduce the complexity of these problems. The proposed method focuses on a system of nonlinear algebraic equations in the process of finding solution to the problems. The convergence of the method based on GBPs is proved, and the accuracy of the method is analyzed by solving several examples.
Power flow analysis of the three-beam system on double parameter elastic foundations based on the wave propagation approach
Authors: Yan Liang , Shi Dongyan , Zhuang Xiaofan , Zhao Kun
Published: April 2024

This article investigates the power flow of the three-beam system on Winkler–Pasternak elastic foundations under elastic boundary conditions. The time-averaged power flow of the beam on elastic foundations with elastic boundary conditions is calculated based on the internal shear force and bending moment and the wave propagation approach. The reliability and accuracy of the calculation method are verified by comparing the vibration acceleration calculated by calculation examples and the finite element method. In addition, the effects of structural parameters and boundary conditions on the power flow of the three-beam system are investigated. This contributes to the analysis of the dynamic characteristics of the beam on double parameter elastic foundations under complex boundary conditions.
Drug-related problems in cancer patients: A systematic review
Authors: Venugopal Jayalakshmi , S Shalini , A Rajasekaran , Karnan Deepika
Published: April 2024

Background

Cancer patients are at a significantly increased risk of drug-related problems due to multiple drugs. An inclusive review of drug-related problems would offer an approach for healthcare providers to decrease the frequency of drug-related problems in cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to assess all characteristic components of drug-related problems in cancer patients, and explore actions taken to resolve the detected drug-related problems the results could be used as a baseline for epidemiology and potential related risk factors for drug-related problems in cancer patients.

Methods

The present systematic review was done according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The search consisted of studies listed from January 2015 and up to May 2023. A systematic review was carried out using an electronic database with a combination of Medical subject Headings of key words Medical Subject Heading terms.

Results

This evaluation included 17 studies from 11 different nations having 11 prospective and 6 retrospective studies. Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe classification system is the most commonly used to classify the drug-related problems. The prevalence of drug-related problems varied from 9.6% to 92.8%. The key predictors of the drug-related problems were age, polypharmacy, multiple comorbidities, and the stage of the disease.

Conclusion

Drug-related problems are significantly more common among cancer patients. The age, polypharmacy, multiple comorbidities, and the stage of the malignancy all enhance the risk of acquiring drug-related problems. This review raises awareness of drug-related problems, encourages their early detection, and emphasizes the necessity for framing effective drug-related problem management strategies which will enhance patient care.
Integrating Indigenous women’s traditional knowledge for climate change in Canada
Authors: Gricius Gabriella , Martel Annie
Published: April 2024

Traditional Ecological Knowledge has historically been appropriated by White settler societies across the globe. It has an important role to play in environmental decision-making, particularly in climate policy. Due to past colonization and continued neo-colonial pressures, Indigenous women’s Traditional Ecological Knowledge has an even less prominent position in environmental policies. Traditional Ecological Knowledge can help build local expertise, formulate research questions, and provide insights into community adaptation and monitoring. We explore the case of Canadian environmental policy, arguing that although Canadian rhetoric seems to consider Traditional Ecological Knowledge, both women’s and otherwise, it rarely does so. When included, it is only done in a superficial manner within legal requirements. We suggest that the lack of attention paid to Indigenous women’s Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Canadian environmental decision-making (1) ignores the disproportionate impacts that Indigenous women experience because of climate change, (2) perpetuates gender blindness, and (3) does not recognize the key insights that women’s Traditional Ecological Knowledge can offer.
Public support for the cordon sanitaire: Descriptive evidence from Spain
Authors: Turnbull-Dugarte Stuart J.
Published: April 2024

Reactions to the rise of far-right parties that advocate democratic backsliding, and the dilution of socially liberal democratic norms present a dilemma for existing political parties. How should existing political parties respond to this challenge? A commonly adopted strategy is to apply a cordon sanitaire which excludes radical right-wing challengers from the government-forming process. Do voters support this policy? Leveraging data from Spain – where the mainstream right has accommodated the radical right-wing party, VOX, via numerous governing coalitions – I rely on individual citizens’ views on how parties should respond to rise of the far-right party, to answer this question. Empirically, the results show very low-level support for the cordon sanitaire in Spain. Indeed, the modal position of the electorate, regardless of their ideological position, is to treat the party just like any other. These results are not conditioned by the propensity of individuals to identify VOX as indeed being a “radical right” party. These descriptive findings suggest that whilst radical right-wing parties may present an inimical threat to democratic norms, citizens do not necessarily view the means of squashing this threat to be one of strategic exclusion. This likely explains why the mainstream right has been able to institutionalise VOX as a political ally: where strategic exclusion is not expected, the mainstream right need not fear violating an expectation that does not exist.
Modeling the determinants of tourism diversification: An empirical analysis for Australia
Authors: Solarin Sakiru Adebola , Erdogan Sinan , Pata Ugur Korkut , Kartal Mustafa Tevfik
Published: April 2024

This paper aims to use an augmented tourism demand model to examine the determinants of tourism diversification by using the data from 46 tourism markets and seven tourism activities in Australia from 1987 to 2021. The tourism markets in Australia have been further divided into sub-regions, and each region has been analyzed. The empirical evidence shows that an increase in the average income in the source markets and infrastructure investment in Australia increases tourism diversification. At the same time, the relative price effect appears to hinder Australia's tourism market diversification. Political risk has not been shown to have a significant impact on Australia's tourism market diversification. Policy conclusions and discussions related to the empirical results are presented in the main body of the paper.
Real-time telerehabilitation for chronic respiratory disease and post-COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Timoteo Esther F , Silva Denise F , Oliveira Túlio MD de , José Anderson , Malaguti Carla
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Telerehabilitation may facilitate access and adherence to pulmonary rehabilitation. Given the heterogeneity in existing telerehabilitation studies, it is still necessary to identify the most effective, safe, and cost-efficient strategy for clinical implementation, as well as the necessary level of supervision during telerehabilitation. The aim of this review was to determine the effectiveness and safety of real-time telerehabilitation for chronic respiratory diseases and post-COVID-19 compared to no-rehabilitation, center-based rehabilitation or asynchronous telerehabilitation.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in six databases until 30 April 2023. Clinical trials of real-time telerehabilitation supervised via videoconference in adults with diagnosis of any chronic respiratory disease or post-COVID-19 were included.

Results

Twelve studies with 1540 participants were included. Very-low to moderate certainty evidence showed no difference between real-time telerehabilitation and center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. Studies included in this review reported high adherence rates to real-time telerehabilitation and completion rate, with no difference compared to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. When compared to no-rehabilitation, the results of this review provide low-certainty evidence that real-time telerehabilitation may have a potential effect on exercise capacity at the end of the intervention, with no better results in others outcomes. No studies comparing real-time telerehabilitation with asynchronous telerehabilitation were found.

Conclusion

Real-time telerehabilitation is safe and it seems to promote similar effects to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. However, the certainty of this evidence ranged from very-low to moderate. Therefore, real-time telerehabilitation offers an alternative to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation models. This review provides a clear definition of real-time telerehabilitation, facilitating results interpretation and clinical applicability.
Sitting knee-flexion angle does not influence endothelial-dependent vasodilation in laboratory or free-living conditions
Authors: Shivgulam Madeline E , O’Brien Myles W , Wu Yanlin , Liu Haoxuan , Petterson Jennifer L , Schwartz Beverly D , Kimmerly Derek S
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Single bouts of prolonged bent-legged sitting attenuate popliteal endothelial-dependent vasodilation (as assessed via flow-mediated dilation [FMD]), which is partially attributed to arterial ‘kinking’. However, the impact of knee-flexion angle on sitting-induced popliteal FMD is unknown. The objective of this study was to perform separate laboratory and free-living studies to test the hypotheses that: (1) popliteal FMD impairments would be graded between knee flexions at 90° (bent-legged sitting) > 45° > 0° (straight-legged sitting) following a 3-hour bout of sitting; and (2) more habitual time spent bent-legged sitting (< 45°) would be associated with lower FMD.

Methods:

The laboratory study included eight young, healthy adults (24 ± 2 years; four women) who underwent two sitting bouts over 2 days with one leg positioned at a knee-flexion angle of 0° or 90° and the opposite leg at 45° knee flexion. Popliteal FMD was assessed at pre- and postsitting timepoints.

Results:

Sitting-induced reductions in FMD were similar between all knee-flexion angles (all, p > 0.674). The free-living study included 35 young, healthy adults (23 ± 3 years; 16 women) who wore three activPAL monitors (torso, thigh, shin) to determine detailed sedentary postures. Time spent sedentary (624 ± 127 min/day), straight-legged sitting (112 ± 98 min/day), and bent-legged sitting (442 ± 106 min/day) were not related to relative FMD (5.3 ± 1.8%; all, p > 0.240).

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that knee-flexion angle-mediated arterial ‘kinking’ during sitting is not a major contributor toward sitting-induced popliteal endothelial-dependent vasodilatory dysfunction.
The influence of palm oil-derived plasticizers and lubricants on the rheological and mechanical properties of styrene butadiene rubber
Authors: Sarih Norfatirah Muhamad , Chow Peei Lim , A Rashid Azura
Published: April 2024

Researchers have recently focused on green processing aids made from plants and vegetables to avoid the high concentration of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from petroleum-based processing oils, which is hazardous to human health. This paper focuses on the effect of lubricants and plasticisers produced from palm oil on the rheological, mechanical and thermal aging properties of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR). These lubricants and plasticisers are known as glycerol trioleate (GTO), n-butyl stearate (NBS), ethylene bis-steramide (EBS), ethylene bis-oleamide (EBO), pentaerythritol tetrastearate (PETS) and stearyl stearate. The abrasion performance, visual inspection appearance, and cure characteristics of the lubricants and plasticisers on SBR were examined and compared to processing oil-treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE), paraffin wax, microcrystalline wax, polyethylene (PE) wax, epoxidised soybean oil (ESBO), and stearic acid. It discovered that rubber compounds based on GTO, stearic acid, and EBS exhibited better abrasion resistance and cure properties than rubber compounds based on processing oil. These samples were selected and subjected to mechanical properties, thermal aging effects analysis and comparison with processing oil. Tensile strength shows that SBR with EBS (22.49 MPa) and EBS with GTO (EBS/GTO; 21.25 MPa) are closely similar to SBR compounds with processing oil (21.02 MPa). The findings imply that EBS and EBS/GTO, green plasticisers and lubricants, are viable alternatives to petroleum-based processing oils while being cost-effective for tire production.
Futuristic scenarios of the general education school: Lithuanian trajectories and implications
Authors: Duobliene Lilija , Kontrimiene Simona , Vaitekaitis Jogaila , Garbauskaite-Jakimovska Justina , Kaire Sandra
Published: April 2024

The paper features the most probable visions of development of the general education school obtained from the research project Futuristic Scenarios of the Lithuanian General Education School. The study used the Delphi method to develop futuristic scenarios and extrapolate the most probable trajectories of school development. Sixty-one experts in education including academics, school administrators, teachers and students completed an online Delphi survey designed by the project partners. Based on the findings, four futuristic scenarios are proposed: (1) The School of Eco Care; (2) The School of Exclusion; (3) The School for the Market; and (4) The School of Individual Meanings. These findings capture the (un)realistic and (un)preferable tendencies in our rapidly changing world, the implications and possible benefits of the scenarios.
A cross-sectional study exploring the relationship between oxidative balance score and 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2011–2020)
Authors: Wang Rumeng , Gao Kun , Wang Lianhua , Gong Xiao , Wu Yanyan , Zheng Liying , Han Senfu , Li Lizhi , Xue Mei
Published: April 2024

Background

The intricate interaction between oxidative stress and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is an essential area of research because of the potential role of oxidative homeostasis in regulating ASCVD risk. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the oxidative balance score (OBS) and the 10-years risk of ASCVD to gain insight into how oxidative balance affects cardiovascular health.

Methods

This cross-sectional study analyzed National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011–2020 data (40–79 age group), exploring OBS’s link to 10-years ASCVD risk. OBS categorized dietary and lifestyle factors. Multivariate logistic regression controlled for age, sex, race, and demographics. A restricted cubic spline examined linear relationships; robustness was ensured through subgroup analyses.

Results

Analysis of 4955 participants reveals a negative association between OBS and 10-years ASCVD risk. Continuous OBS adjusted OR: 0.97 (95% CI: 0.95∼0.99, p < .001). Quartile analysis shows reduced risk in Q2 0.88 (95% CI: 0.63∼1.22, p = .43), Q3 0.92 (95% CI: 0.66∼1.28, p = .614), and Q4 0.59 (95% CI: 0.42∼0.83, p = .002) compare Q1. Quartile analysis indicated decreasing risk in higher OBS quartiles. Lifestyle OBS and Dietary OBS demonstrated similar trends. Stratified analyses highlight race and hypertension as effect modifiers ( p < .05).

Conclusion

Our study suggests an association between higher OBS and a reduced 10-years ASCVD risk. However, causation should not be inferred, and in the future, more extensive clinical and fundamental research is required to delve deeper into this association.
The Electrified Wire Technique in Complex Aortic Interventions: A Case Series
Authors: Torrealba Jose I. , Panuccio Giuseppe , Rohlffs Fiona , Nana Petroula , Toader Radu-Ionut , Arulrajah Kugarajah , Kölbel Tilo
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

Electrosurgery has been long used in endovascular procedures, with only case reports in the aortic field. Our aim is to present a case series with the use of an electrified wire to perform catheter-based electrosurgery by applying external current through an electrocautery pen.

Methods:

Single-center retrospective case series of all patients undergoing complex aortic surgery from October 2020 to August 2023, in whom the electrified wire technique was used: (1) Perforation of a dissection flap or left subclavian artery (LSA) in situ endograft fenestration—a 0.014” polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) insulated guidewire is detached from the insulation with a scalpel at the end and a cautery pen is here attached with a clamp. A curved tip catheter or sheath is positioned against the aortic flap or the endograft (through a left brachial access in this case) and the wire pushed, crossing the flap by activating the electrocautery pen and (2) slicing a dissection flap (“powered cheese-wire technique”)—after same preparation as above, the middle section of the 0.014 guidewire is removed from the PTFE and bent into a V-shape. Once in the aorta, the guidewire crosses from the true lumen (TL) to the false lumen (FL) and a through-and-through access is obtained. Sheaths are positioned against the flap from both sides and moved up or down while the electricity is activated, slicing the flap and communicating both lumens. Technical success and technical-related complications were evaluated.

Results:

Eleven cases concerning aortic dissections and 1 case of aortic atresia were treated. Four patients presented urgently, whereas the rest were planned procedures. Seven cases underwent perforation of a dissection flap, 2 cases underwent the powered cheese-wire technique, in 2 cases for an LSA in situ fenestration, and in 1 case to cross an aortic atresia at the aortic isthmus. The technique was in all cases successfully applied. No complications related to the technique occurred.

Conclusions:

The “electrified wire” technique is a feasible and ready-available tool that can be safely used in complex aortic interventions, especially to perforate aortic tissue like dissection flaps or to perform in situ fenestrated repairs by perforation of the endograft fabric.

Clinical Impact

The electrified wire technique described herein is a straightforward technique that uses readily available tools to perform electrosurgery. We present its use in complex aortic procedures. However, it could be envisioned for any vascular procedure that requires crossing of the vessel or even prosthetic material. As we have described in this series, when used along with an adequate properative planning, it can be a safe tool of great utility, as has already been demonstarted in the field of the interventional cardiology.
Test-Only Learning via Virtual Patients to Improve Surgical Illness Scripts of Preclinical Medical Students as a Preparation for Clinical Clerkships: An Experimental Study
Authors: Kıyak Yavuz Selim , Budakoğlu Işıl İrem , Coşkun Özlem
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim was to determine whether preclinical medical students can develop their illness scripts to a level comparable to that of clerkship students through test-only learning using repeated formative online testlets.

Methods

In this experimental study, participants were 52 preclinical and 53 clinical medical students. The intervention group consisted of preclinical medical students, and the control group consisted of clinical medical students. The intervention group responded to online testlets containing feedback, an innovative formative assessment method called ContExtended Questions, on general surgery for 8 days by spending no more than 30 minutes each day. The control group completed the general surgery clerkship. The performances were assessed using 20 Key-Feature Question items. The intervention group was assessed twice: immediately after the intervention (the immediate test), and again 1 month later (the delayed test). The control group was assessed once, immediately after the clerkship. All performance tests were identical.

Results

The preclinical students had a significantly higher mean score on the immediate test (83.1 ± 9.6) compared to the clinical students (75.4 ± 8.9), P < .001. The effect size (Cohen’s d) was .83. However, the mean score in the delayed test (76.9 ± 13.6) was not significantly different from clinical students’ mean score (75.4 ± 8.9), P > .05.

Conclusions

Test-only learning as a spaced repetition of online formative testlets is effective in preparing preclinical medical students to the clinical clerkship. Through using this approach in preclinical period, they can prepare themselves for the clinical environment to optimize the benefits derived from clerkships.
Group-Based Interventions in Lifestyle Medicine
Authors: Tran Viet T. , Vaughan Elizabeth M. , Kim Stephanie , Johnston Craig A.
Published: April 2024

Group-based interventions in health care have demonstrated a positive influence on patient outcomes by strengthening patient-healthcare professional relationships and providing an avenue for patient empowerment through shared experiences and belongingness. Groups have been shown to enhance social and psychological support, improve self-management behaviors, and encourage peer-support. However group settings also present challenges, such as discomforts in sharing within a group context and managing diverse group dynamics. We outline the efficacy and dynamics of group-based activities in health care settings. This includes key behavioral components of groups, such as creating a safe, supportive, and cohesive environment in group activities where confidentiality is paramount. By recognizing principles for group and moderator behaviors, individuals are more likely to maximize the potential of these interventions.
Perioperative complications of minor and major reinterventions for peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Huttler Joshua J , Satam Keyuree K , Kim Tanner I , Zhuo Haoran , Zhang Yawei , Aboian Edouard , Guzman Raul J , Chaar Cassius Iyad Ochoa
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) frequently require reinterventions after lower-extremity revascularization (LER) to maintain perfusion. Current Society for Vascular Surgery guidelines define reinterventions as major or minor based on the magnitude of the procedure. While prior studies have compared primary LER procedures of different magnitudes, similar studies for reinterventions have not been performed. The objective of this study is to compare perioperative outcomes associated with major and minor reinterventions.

Methods

Patients undergoing LER for PAD at a tertiary care center from 2013 to 2017 were included. A retrospective review of electronic medical records was performed, and reinterventions were categorized as major or minor based on the procedure magnitude. Minor reinterventions included endovascular procedures and open revision with patch angioplasty, while major reinterventions were characterized by open surgical or endovascular LER with catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT). Perioperative outcomes following LER were captured and compared for major and minor reinterventions. An additional subgroup analysis was performed comparing outcomes associated with major reinterventions stratified into open major surgical reinterventions and CDT.

Results

This study included 713 patients over a mean follow-up of 2.5 years. A total of 291 patients underwent 696 ipsilateral reinterventions (range = 1–12 reinterventions). Most reinterventions were minor (72.1%, N = 502) and 27.9% ( N = 194) were major. Patients receiving reinterventions had an average age of 67.2 ± 11.5 and most were white (73.5%) males (60.1%) initially treated for claudication (58.2%) and CLTI (41.8%). There was significantly higher post-operative bleeding (9.8% vs 3.4%, p = .001), arterial thrombosis (3.1% vs 1.0%, p = .047), and acute renal failure (6.2% vs 2.4%, p = .014) after major reinterventions than minor. Additionally, major reinterventions had significantly higher return to the OR (17.0% vs 11.3%, p = .046) and longer hospital stays (7.5 vs 4.3 days, p = <.0001). Overall, major reinterventions were associated with significantly increased perioperative morbidity (37.6% vs 19.7%, p ≤ .001) with no difference in perioperative mortality. In the subgroup analysis, open reinterventions resulted in significantly longer hospital stays (8.6 days vs 5.5 days, p ≤ .001) and more wound infections than CDT (11.0% vs 0%, p = .017). However, there was no other significant difference in morbidity or mortality following treatment with open surgical reinterventions or CDT.

Conclusions

In this study, major reinterventions after LER were associated with greater perioperative morbidity than minor reinterventions, with no difference in mortality. Major reinterventions performed via open surgery and CDT had similar morbidity and mortality.
Positive end-expiratory pressure and the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications in patients undergoing general anaesthesia
Authors: Lilaj Krenar , Shpata Vjollca , Bollano Enton , Kuçi Saimir
Published: April 2024

General anaesthesia causes atelectasis, which can lead to impaired respiratory function. Positive end-expiratory pressure is a mechanical manoeuvre that increases functional residual capacity and prevents the collapse of the airways, thereby reducing atelectasis.

Aim of the study:

To evaluate the effect of intraoperative positive end-expiratory pressure and driving pressure on the development of postoperative pulmonary complications.

Method:

The prospective study included 83 patients undergoing abdominal surgery and receiving general anaesthesia. Patients were divided into two groups: with low intraoperative positive end-expiratory pressure (0–2cm H2O) and with high intraoperative positive end-expiratory pressure (8–10cm H2O). The primary endpoint is the development of postoperative pulmonary complications during follow-up.

Results:

The incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications in the group of low intraoperative positive end-expiratory pressure was 9.8%, while in the group of high positive end-expiratory pressure was 7.1% (p = 0.6), demonstrating that high positive end-expiratory pressure used during general anaesthesia does not affect the frequency of complications (odds ratio = 0.71, p = 0.6). In the multivariate analysis that controls for all confounders, driving pressure resulted in a significant and independent risk factor for complications.

Conclusion:

High intraoperative positive end-expiratory pressure does not affect the frequency of postoperative pulmonary complications. The increase in driving pressure is a risk factor for complications. Positive end-expiratory pressure is easily implemented, and its use does not result in significant economic costs.
The Influence of Sexism and Incivility in WhatsApp Political Discussions on Affective Polarization: Evidence from a 2022 Multi-Party Election in India
Authors: Neyazi Taberez Ahmed , Kuru Ozan , Mukerjee Subhayan
Published: April 2024

In contemporary political discourse, the concern of affective polarization, often fueled by uncivil and sexist discourse, is notably evident in digital communication contexts like WhatsApp. In this study, we examined the potential effects of uncivil and sexist messages as well as moderator interventions against these messages coming from political in- and out-group members in such political groups through a survey experiment ( N = 1,464) fielded during the 2022 Uttar Pradesh (India) Legislative Assembly Elections. We investigate these questions and extend the prior work on affective polarization by introducing a new measure of Average Inter-party Affective Distance, which provides a single metric to index overall polarization in a multi-party election context. Our results showed that exposure to sexist uncivil messages had no discernible effect on affective polarization, political participation, and voting intention. Additionally, moderator warnings against incivility had no significant effects. However, we observed a variation in how respondents processed these messages based on their preexisting attitudes; notably, individuals with less sexist views were more inclined to vote after being exposed to sexist uncivil messages. These findings suggest that the influence of incivility and sexism in messaging platforms like WhatsApp on the wider electorate’s political behavior and attitudes is relatively limited. This research contributes to our understanding of the role of digital political communication, highlighting the importance of message content and preexisting individual differences in shaping affective polarization and mobilization.
The most used questionnaires for evaluating the usability of robots and smart wearables: A scoping review
Authors: Moulaei Khadijeh , Moulaei Reza , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz
Published: April 2024

Background

As the field of robotics and smart wearables continues to advance rapidly, the evaluation of their usability becomes paramount. Researchers may encounter difficulty in finding a suitable questionnaire for evaluating the usability of robotics and smart wearables. Therefore, the aim of this study is to identify the most commonly utilized questionnaires for assessing the usability of robots and smart wearables.

Methods

A comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, was conducted for this scoping review. Two authors performed the selection of articles and data extraction using a 10-field data extraction form. In cases of disagreements, a third author was consulted to reach a consensus. The inclusions were English-language original research articles that utilized validated questionnaires to assess the usability of healthcare robots and smart wearables. The exclusions comprised review articles, non-English publications, studies not focused on usability, those assessing clinical outcomes, articles lacking questionnaire details, and those using non-validated or researcher-made questionnaires. Descriptive statistics methods (frequency and percentage), were employed to analyze the data.

Results

A total of 314 articles were obtained, and after eliminating irrelevant and duplicate articles, a final selection of 50 articles was included in this review. A total of 17 questionnaires were identified to evaluate the usability of robots and smart wearables, with 10 questionnaires specifically for wearables and 7 questionnaires for robots. The System Usability Scale (50%) and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (19.44%) were the predominant questionnaires utilized to assess the usability of smart wearables. Moreover, the most commonly used questionnaires for evaluating the usability of robots were the System Usability Scale (56.66%), User Experience Questionnaire (16.66%), and Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (10%).

Conclusion

Commonly employed questionnaires serve as valuable tools in assessing the usability of robots and smart wearables, aiding in the refinement and optimization of these technologies for enhanced user experiences. By incorporating user feedback and insights, designers can strive towards creating more intuitive and effective robotic and wearable solutions.
Timing of cluster headache preventives in episodic cluster headache: Protocol for an observational prospective cohort pilot study
Authors: Medrea Ioana , Wang Dongliang , Burish Mark J
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

In cluster headache, patients often describe a ramp up period with initially milder headache and then build up to a persistent and severe pattern. It is possible that within the early ramp up, patients may be more treatment responsive. We propose to study if response to therapy for prevention of cluster headache is dependent on timing from onset of cluster cycle.

Methods:

We will conduct a prospective observational cohort study, where we examine the relationship between timing of start of preventive medication and likelihood of response to treatment. We will look at individuals exposed within 10 days of onset of cluster cycle, versus those exposed after 10 days, to preventive medication.

Results:

We plan to enroll patients into the study and present data on completion.

Conclusion:

We aim to study the relationship between cluster headache onset and response to therapy. We propose that there is some data to suggest that earlier in cycle cluster headache may be more easily prevented, and we aim to study this relationship systematically. This is an important question that can influence treatment decisions in clinical practice, as well as clinical trial design.
Development of combination therapies with BTK inhibitors and dasatinib to treat CNS-infiltrating E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ ALL
Authors: Gentile Gaia , Poggio Teresa , Catalano Antonella , Voutilainen Minna , Lahnalampi Mari , Andrade-Martinez Marta , Ma Tobias , Sankowski Roman , Goncharenko Lina , Tholen Stefan , Han Kyuho , Morgens David W. , Prinz Marco , Lübbert Michael , Engel Sophia , Hartmann Tanja Nicole , Cario Gunnar , Schrappe Martin , Lenk Lennart , Stanulla Martin , Duyster Justus , Bronsert Peter , Bassik Michael C. , Cleary Michael L. , Schilling Oliver , Heinäniemi Merja , Duque-Afonso Jesús
Published: April 2024

The t(1;19) translocation, encoding the oncogenic fusion protein E2A (TCF3)-PBX1, is involved in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and associated with a pre–B-cell receptor (preBCR+) phenotype. Relapse in patients with E2A-PBX1+ ALL frequently occurs in the central nervous system (CNS). Therefore, there is a medical need for the identification of CNS active regimens for the treatment of E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ ALL. Using unbiased short hairpin RNA (shRNA) library screening approaches, we identified Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) as a key gene involved in both proliferation and dasatinib sensitivity of E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ ALL. Depletion of BTK by shRNAs resulted in decreased proliferation of dasatinib-treated E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ cells compared with control-transduced cells. Moreover, the combination of dasatinib with BTK inhibitors (BTKi; ibrutinib, acalabrutinib, or zanubrutinib) significantly decreased E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ human and murine cell proliferation, reduced phospholipase C gamma 2 (PLCG2) and BTK phosphorylation and total protein levels and increased disease-free survival of mice in secondary transplantation assays, particularly reducing CNS-leukemic infiltration. Hence, dasatinib with ibrutinib reduced pPLCG2 and pBTK in primary ALL patient samples, including E2A-PBX1+ ALLs. In summary, genetic depletion and pharmacological inhibition of BTK increase dasatinib effects in human and mouse with E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ ALL across most of performed assays, with the combination of dasatinib and BTKi proving effective in reducing CNS infiltration of E2A-PBX1+/preBCR+ ALL cells in vivo.
Myeloablative vs nonmyeloablative consolidation for primary central nervous system lymphoma: results of Alliance 51101
Authors: Batchelor Tracy T. , Giri Sharmila , Ruppert Amy S. , Geyer Susan M. , Smith Scott E. , Mohile Nimish , Swinnen Lode J. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Kahl Brad S. , Bartlett Nancy L. , Hsi Eric D. , Cheson Bruce D. , Wagner-Johnston Nina , Nayak Lakshmi , Leonard John P. , Rubenstein James L.
Published: April 2024

Although it is evident that standard-dose whole-brain radiotherapy as consolidation is associated with significant neurotoxicity, the optimal consolidative strategy for primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is not defined. We performed a randomized phase 2 clinical trial via the US Alliance cancer cooperative group to compare myeloablative consolidation supported by autologous stem cell transplantation with nonmyeloablative consolidation after induction therapy for PCNSL. To our knowledge, this is the first randomized trial to be initiated that eliminates whole-brain radiotherapy as a consolidative approach in newly diagnosed PCNSL. Patients aged 18 to 75 years were randomly assigned in a 1:1 manner to induction therapy (methotrexate, temozolomide, rituximab, and cytarabine) followed by consolidation with either thiotepa plus carmustine and autologous stem cell rescue vs induction followed by nonmyeloablative, infusional etoposide plus cytarabine. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS). A total of 113 patients were randomized, and 108 (54 in each arm) were evaluable. More patients in the nonmyeloablative arm experienced progressive disease or death during induction (28% vs 11%; P = .05). Thirty-six patients received autologous stem cell transplant, and 34 received nonmyeloablative consolidation. The estimated 2-year PFS was higher in the myeloablative vs nonmyeloablative arm (73% vs 51%; P = .02). However, a planned secondary analysis, landmarked at start of the consolidation, revealed that the estimated 2-year PFS in those who completed consolidation therapy was not significantly different between the arms (86% vs 71%; P = .21). Both consolidative strategies yielded encouraging efficacy and similar toxicity profiles. This trial was registered at www.clininicals.gov as #NCT01511562.
Global respiratory health priorities at the beginning of the 21st century
Authors: Greene Catherine M. , Abdulkadir Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Respiratory health has become a prevailing priority amid the diverse global health challenges that the 21st century brings, due to its substantial impact on individuals and communities on a global scale. Due to rapid advances in medicine, emerging knowledge gaps appear along with new challenges and ethical considerations. While breakthroughs in medical science can bring about encouraging possibilities for better treatments and interventions, they also lead to unanswered questions and areas where further research is warranted. A PubMed search on the topic “global respiratory health priorities” between the years 2000 and 2023 was conducted, which returned 236 articles. Of these, 55 were relevant and selected for inclusion in this article. The selection process took into account literature reviews, opinions from expert groups and careful analysis of existing gaps and challenges within the field; our selection encompasses specific infectious and noninfectious respiratory conditions in both adults and children. The global respiratory health priorities identified were selected on the basis that they have been recognised as critical areas of investigation and potential advancement and they span across clinical, translational, epidemiological and population health domains. Implementing these priorities will require a commitment to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among experts in different fields with the ultimate aim to improve respiratory health outcomes for individuals and communities alike.
Social determinants of respiratory health from birth: still of concern in the 21st century?
Authors: Bush Andrew , Byrnes Catherine A. , Chan Kate C. , Chang Anne B. , Ferreira Juliana C. , Holden Karl A. , Lovinsky-Desir Stephanie , Redding Gregory , Singh Varinder , Sinha Ian P. , Zar Heather J.
Published: April 2024

Respiratory symptoms are ubiquitous in children and, even though they may be the harbinger of poor long-term outcomes, are often trivialised. Adverse exposures pre-conception, antenatally and in early childhood have lifetime impacts on respiratory health. For the most part, lung function tracks from the pre-school years at least into late middle age, and airflow obstruction is associated not merely with poor respiratory outcomes but also early all-cause morbidity and mortality. Much would be preventable if social determinants of adverse outcomes were to be addressed. This review presents the perspectives of paediatricians from many different contexts, both high and low income, including Europe, the Americas, Australasia, India, Africa and China. It should be noted that there are islands of poverty within even the highest income settings and, conversely, opulent areas in even the most deprived countries. The heaviest burden of any adverse effects falls on those of the lowest socioeconomic status. Themes include passive exposure to tobacco smoke and indoor and outdoor pollution, across the entire developmental course, and lack of access even to simple affordable medications, let alone the new biologicals. Commonly, disease outcomes are worse in resource-poor areas. Both within and between countries there are avoidable gross disparities in outcomes. Climate change is also bearing down hardest on the poorest children. This review highlights the need for vigorous advocacy for children to improve lifelong health. It also highlights that there are ongoing culturally sensitive interventions to address social determinants of disease which are already benefiting children.
Resistance training's impact on blood biomarkers and cognitive function in older adults with low and high risk of mild cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vints Wouter A. J. , Gökçe Evrim , Šeikinaitė Julija , Kušleikienė Simona , Česnaitienė Vida J. , Verbunt Jeanine , Levin Oron , Masiulis Nerijus
Published: April 2024

Background

The aging brain exhibits a neuroinflammatory state, driven partly by peripheral pro-inflammatory stimuli, that accelerates cognitive deterioration. A growing body of evidence clearly indicates that physical exercise partly alleviates neuroinflammation and positively affects the aging process and cognition. In this randomized controlled trial, we aimed to observe the effect of 12 weeks of resistance training (RT) on peripheral biomarker levels, cognitive function changes and their interrelationship, and explore differences in those exercise-induced changes in older adults with high risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) compared to older adults with low risk of MCI.

Methods

Fifty-two participants ﻿(aged 60–85 years old, 28 female) were randomly allocated to a 12 week lower limb RT program consisting of two training sessions per week or waiting list control group. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was used to stratify participants screened as high (< 26/30) or low risk (≥ 26/30) of MCI. We assessed serum Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), and Kynurenine (KYN) levels. Cognitive measurement consisted of and four subtests of Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM), the two-choice reaction time, go/no-go, mathematical processing, and memory search test.

Results

Twelve weeks of RT improved Go/No-go test results in older adults with high MCI risk. RT did not significantly affect blood biomarkers. However, IGF-1 level increases were associated with improvements in response time on the mathematical processing test in the exercise group, and IL-6 level increases were associated with improvements in response time on the memory search test in the total group of participants. Finally, KYN levels significantly differed between older adults with low and high MCI risk but no significant associations with performance were found.

Conclusion

Our study results suggest a different effect of RT on inhibitory control between older adults with low compared to high MCI risk. IGF-1 may play a role in the mechanism behind the cognitive benefit of RT and KYN may be a surrogate biomarker for neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.
Carbon farming, overestimated negative emissions and the limits to emissions trading in land-use governance: the EU carbon removal certification proposal
Authors: Günther Philipp , Garske Beatrice , Heyl Katharine , Ekardt Felix
Published: April 2024

This article conducts a qualitative governance analysis of the European Commission’s 2022 proposal for a certification framework for carbon removals (CRCF). It highlights potential challenges and legal implications—with a specific focus on carbon farming. While the European Union (EU) acknowledges carbon farming as an important strategy to offset residual emissions, such carbon removal activities are prone to reversals and models often overestimate their sequestration potential. The CRCF aims to account for these issues, but the analysis shows that the proposal may, in part, undermine international climate and biodiversity goals set by the Paris Agreement and the Convention on Biological Diversity. Key concerns include its failure to consider the normative hierarchy between emission reductions and removals mandated by EU and international law, the introduction of a temporary removal crediting system, the extensive delegation of powers to the Commission, the possibility that it may incentivise shifting effects, and its lack of alignment with other EU environmental policies. Additionally, the CRCF’s failure to restrict the use of carbon credits after certification increases the risk of double claiming of removal activities—and the proposal may open the door for to future integration of carbon removals into the EU’s emission trading scheme, which should be avoided for various reasons. As an alternative, member states should consider targeted subsidy schemes and regulatory instruments to navigate these challenges in carbon farming effectively.