bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of direct oral anticoagulants compared to enoxaparin on objective response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Karimi Solmaz , Abboud Karen , Umoru Godsfavour , Bernicker Eric H.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

A hypoxic tumor microenvironment inhibits the normal functioning of immune cells. Studies have hypothesized that anticoagulants that can penetrate and bind to factor Xa in the tumor microenvironment, can enhance T-cell function and augment immunotherapy activity. This study compared objective response rate and progression-free survival of lung cancer patients on concomitant immunotherapy treated with direct-acting oral anticoagulants versus enoxaparin.

Methods

This single-center retrospective study included 73 adults with stage-IV lung cancer who received at least two cycles of immunotherapy and one month of anticoagulant therapy with direct-acting oral anticoagulants (Arm A) versus enoxaparin (Arm B) between June 1, 2016, to September 30, 2022. Primary endpoint was objective response rate, and secondary endpoints were rates of complete response, progression-free survival, incidence of thrombotic events, and major bleeding.

Results

Objective response rate at 6 months was 24.5% versus 25% while progression-free survival at 6 months was 54.7% versus 45% in Arm A versus Arm B, respectively. Complete response rates at 6 months were 7.5% in Arm A versus 0% in Arm B. One patient in Arm A and two in Arm B had a recurrent deep vein thrombosis. Nine patients in Arm A and two in Arm B were diagnosed with new deep vein thrombosis. One patient in Arm B was diagnosed with new pulmonary embolism. Two major bleeding events occurred in Arm B.

Conclusions

Our study suggests a trend toward improved progression-free survival at 6 months with no new safety concerns in lung cancer patients on concurrent immunotherapy and direct-acting oral anticoagulants.
Effect of rotational speed on transient thermoelastohydrodynamic tribo-dynamic characteristics of journal bearings
Authors: Wang Ruinan , Zhang Li
Published: December 2024

In journal bearings operating under high-speed and heavy-load conditions, the loads borne by the bearings and the rotational speeds of the journals are the key parameters affecting their working characteristics. In this paper, taking journal bearings as the research object, the thermoelastic deformation of the bearing shell, the asperity contact between the journal and the bearing shell, the density-temperature-pressure and viscosity-temperature-pressure equations of lubricating oil, and the motion equation of the journal are comprehensively considered. Based on the generalized Reynolds equation of the average mass flow model, a transient thermoelastohydrodynamic (TTEHD) model of journal bearings coupled with dynamics and tribology is established. The established model is mainly aimed at the effect on the characteristics of bearings at different initial speeds and different lift speeds. The results show that: in the process of journal lift speeds, a larger lift speed will have a very obvious effect on the eccentricity and the maximum bearing temperature, and increase the possibility of journal vortexing; a larger initial speed will greatly reduce journal running stability; the increase of the load will to a certain extent strengthen journal stability.
Risk of hypertension in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with teriflunomide compared to dimethyl fumarate: A nationwide cohort study in Denmark
Authors: Framke Elisabeth , Sellebjerg Finn , Kant Matthias , Stilund Morten , Jensen Henrik Boye , Illes Zsolt , Asgari Nasrin , Sejbaek Tobias , Roug Lena Christina , Jensen Michael Broksgaard , Schäfer Jakob , Rasmussen Peter Vestergaard , Christensen Jeppe Romme , Weglewski Arkadiusz , Prakash Sivagini , Magyari Melinda , Heick Alex , Jensen Ana Isabel Figueira , Weglewski Arkadiusz , Milthers Ásta , Mærsk-Møller Camilla , Tørring Caroline Winther , Christensen Claudia , Sellebjerg Finn , Sirakov Georgi P. , Nielsen Helle Hvilsted , Jensen Henrik Boye , Mathiesen Henrik Kahr , Roshanisefat Homayoun , Urbonaviciute Inga , Barzinji Ismael , Schäfer Jakob , Christensen Jeppe Romme , Battistini Jette Lautrup , Hansen Julie Richter , Schreiber Karen Ingrid , Svendsen Kristina Bacher , Storr Lars Kristian , Roug Lena Christina , Harper Luke , Poulsen Mai Bang , Falah Masoud , Kant Matthias , Magyari Melinda , Langemark Michael , Jensen Michael Broksgaard , Góra Monika Katarzyna , Blinkenberg Morten , Stilund Morten Leif Munding , Issa Nadia Mubder , Asgari Nasrin , Sørensen Per Soelberg , Rasmussen Peter Vestergaard , Jensen Rikke Marie , Jensen Rikke Marie , Ashna Said , Derakhshan Siavash , Prakash Sivagini , Bramow Stephan , Sejbæk Tobias , Asenov Tsvetomir , Papp Viktoria Papp , Illés Zsolt Laszlo
Published: December 2024

Background:

Teriflunomide has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension. Real-world studies including adequate control groups are lacking. We hypothesized that patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) treated with teriflunomide would be at higher risk of developing hypertension than those treated with dimethyl fumarate.

Methods:

We conducted a cohort study linking the Danish Multiple Sclerosis Registry with national health registries during a 10-year period. Teriflunomide ( N = 2656) and dimethyl fumarate ( N = 2237) exposure was defined by the first treatment record lasting ⩾ 3 months, at which time follow-up started. We included 4893 adult patients without hypertension at baseline. Hypertension was defined as an International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision code for hypertension and by dispensed prescription drugs identified by the respective Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes. We used multivariable-adjusted Cox regression.

Results:

We found 40.6 (teriflunomide) and 13.1 (dimethyl fumarate) hypertension events per 1000 person-years. Compared to dimethyl fumarate-treated patients, patients treated with teriflunomide had a higher risk of developing hypertension (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.80; 95% confidence interval = 2.19–3.56). The number needed to harm was 16 and 9 at 3 and 5 years of follow-up, respectively.

Conclusion:

We found an increased risk of hypertension in adult patients with MS treated with teriflunomide.
Microstructural evolution and mechanical behaviour of laser welding Ti6Al4V fabricated by laser powder bed fusion and direct energy deposition
Authors: Wu Linkuo , Liu Ruizu , Wang Leilei , Zhan Xiaohong , Wang Zhimin
Published: December 2024

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and directed energy deposition (DED) are two typical additive manufacturing technologies. LPBF is relatively slow and suitable for printing small and complex parts, while DED can print larger parts at a faster speed. Therefore, welding them together maximises the advantages of both technologies. In this study, laser welding technology was applied to join 5 mm thick Ti6Al4V samples fabricated using LPBF and DED processes. Results showed that anisotropy in grain morphology of the base material affected the size of acicular α’ martensite and texture strength. The welded joints showed good tensile properties, with the average ultimate tensile strength (∼1105 MPa).
Taste externalization practices among Brazilian metal consumers who learn to play musical instruments
Authors: Castro Álvaro Leonel de Oliveira , Rezende Daniel Carvalho de
Published: December 2024

We consider music consumption an integrative practice that promotes taste, in which consumers of a specific musical genre are occasionally interested in learning to play a musical instrument. In this context, the article analyzed the interrelationships between practice and taste externalized among Brazilian consumers of metal music and related subgenres. We conducted interviews to understand how self-taught instruction, formal music education and musical instruments configure the process. Self-taught instruction is based on listening/technical skills enhanced by informal pedagogical resources, in which the performance of metal artists also influences the song reproduction. Formal music education is guided by traditions and methods rather than focusing solely on the learner’s taste; however, it is a path for ‘authorial experiments’ that externalize the preference for metal music. Musical instruments influence this process due to their technical specifications, electronic equipment and aesthetic elements. We concluded that the learning process to play musical instruments constitutes a taste externalization practice and that the way it occurs is associated with metal music consumption in the researched context.
Silent no more: Revealing and resisting cyberviolence against Moroccan women in academia
Authors: Belamghari Mohamed
Published: December 2024

This research adopts a tripartite methodology, by combining qualitative, quantitative, and case study approaches, to examine the underexplored issue of cyberviolence against Moroccan female academics. With three key research questions, the study explores the prevalence, characteristics, effects on mental well-being and professional fulfillment, and the coping strategies employed by the victims to counteract cyberviolence. The study concludes by stressing the urgency of targeted and efficient interventions and evidence-based policies to address the gendered nature of online harassment. In spite of its limitations, the research lays the ground for further studies and collaboration to secure safer online environments for female academics in Morocco.
The impact of game play on dementia knowledge: A student evaluation of the Dementia Inequalities Game
Authors: Giebel Clarissa , Marshall Helen , Cannon Jacqui , Donnellan Warren , Bullen Heather , Lomas Elizabeth , Porritt Bridget , Rees Anna , Curran Simon , Tetlow Hilary , Gabbay Mark
Published: December 2024

Background: People with dementia and carers can face many barriers, or inequalities, in accessing a diagnosis or care. These barriers are unjust and can be addressed by the right interventions, to ensure that everyone receives equitable access to diagnosis and care. A lack of knowledge about dementia in the health and social care workforce is a recognised barrier. The Dementia Inequalities Game was co-produced with people with personal, professional, and voluntary sector experiences of dementia, and offers an educational tool to educate people about dementia and associated inequalities and overcome this knowledge gap in the current and future (in training) workforce. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of playing the co-produced Dementia Inequalities Game on knowledge about dementia and associated inequalities in health care, allied health professional, nursing and psychology students.

Methods: We conducted 11 game play workshops as part of regular teaching in undergraduate and postgraduate courses in psychology, nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, orthoptics, and radiography at one University in the North of England. Students did not have to partake in the workshops. Participating students completed a brief before and after knowledge questionnaire about dementia and inequalities. Paired samples t-tests were used to compare ratings of knowledge of dementia and associated inequalities before and after game play.

Findings: Three-hundred-and-eighteen students took part in the workshops, with 312 fully completed questionnaires. The largest cohort of students (49%) were studying for a degree in nursing. Playing the game significantly increased knowledge about dementia ( p < .001) and dementia inequalities ( p < .001).

Implications: Playing the Dementia Inequalities Game is an effective tool to improve knowledge about dementia and associated inequalities in health care and psychology students. Using the game as an educational and sociable intervention in health and social care professionals is a next avenue to test.
A new framework based on geometric partition L-Kurtosis indicator for bearing condition monitoring and incipient fault detection
Authors: Tang Jiaquan , Zheng Kai , Bai Yin , Wen Siguo , Yang Dewei , Zhang Likang , Zhang Bin
Published: December 2024

Health indicators (HIs) are greatly significant in sustaining the stable operation of machines and guiding the implementation of predictable maintenance. Traditional HIs such as kurtosis, negentropy, Gini index manifest some concessions in certain scenarios. In this study, we propose a new geometric partition L-Kurtosis (GLK) indicator for bearing condition monitoring leveraging its splendid fault characterization, and it is proved to be advantageous in perceiving bearing incipient fault occurrence and outlining sufficiently bearing full-life degradation trend through substantial experiments with run-to-failure datasets. Integrated with empirical wavelet transform, a GLKgram is constructed to enable the application of the GLK indicator in bearing incipient fault detection. The experimental results deliver that the GLKgram excels at recognizing the fault repetitive transients and resisting the interfering large random shocks and strong noise, further manifesting the superiority of the GLK indicator in identifying fault features.
Ultrasonic nonlinear frequency diverse array: principle and applications
Authors: Xu Xiaolei , Zhu Yanping , Wang Yiming , Li Fucai , Su Wensheng , Xue Zhigang
Published: December 2024

In ultrasonic testing, omnidirectional wave propagation presents challenges of nonfocus energy loss and interface interference. Traditional phased array (PA) methods, despite their focusing capabilities, suffer from limitations in energy utilization and target detection accuracy. Frequency diverse array (FDA) technology, initially developed for radar, has demonstrated potential for improved range-angle-dependent ultrasonic beampatterns but still exhibits limitations due to S-shaped coupling. This study proposes an ultrasonic nonlinear frequency diverse array (ultrasonic-NFDA) with nonuniform frequency offsets to address these issues. The ultrasonic-NFDA employs modulated frequency offsets by introducing nonlinear carrying functions and incorporating additional parameters to manipulate beamforming and enhances energy concentration at focal points. Furthermore, the multi-objective differential evolution algorithm is used for parameter optimization. The proposed method decouples the range-angle beampattern and improves the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio. Numerical evaluations and simulations demonstrate that ultrasonic-NFDA outperforms the ultrasonic linear FDA and PA series, achieving better peak sidelobe level and half-power beam width. Experimental validations confirm the effectiveness of ultrasonic-NFDA in practical ultrasonic testing scenarios, showing significant improvements in defect detection and imaging clarity. The optimized beampatterns effectively reduce artifacts and enhance the precision of defect localization. The proposed integration of nonlinear frequency offsets and parameter optimization in array testing offers a robust solution for more accurate and efficient ultrasonic inspection methodologies.
Optimizing mechanical behaviour of polylactic acid (PLA) specimen in fused deposition modeling (FDM): A Taguchi approach
Authors: Rizwee Mumtaz , Kumar Deepak
Published: December 2024

The quality of the fabricated part in the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technique is primarily influenced by the printing variables. Therefore, it is crucial to select the parameters appropriately in order to enhance the qualities of the build specimen. In light of this, this research investigated experimentally and statistically the influence of several printing parameters, like layer thickness, printing speed, and the density of infill, on mechanical properties using polylactic acid (PLA) material. On the basis of Taguchi’s factorial design model, nine trials established. The PLA parts manufactured on the FDM printer and mechanical properties evaluated using uniaxial tensile and hardness test. The Signal-to-Noise ratio (S/N) was being used to identify the best combination of the printing parameters. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) used to find the significant variables and how they affected mechanical properties. In addition, a linear regression analysis performed to estimate the tensile strength ([Formula: see text]) and hardness of the manufactured component. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) was utilised for fractural surface analysis. The results reveal that only one factor, infill density (100 %), is statistically significant and have a substantial effect on the tensile strength (88.98%). Printing speed have more effect (55.38%) and layer thickness have the least affect (18.66%) on the hardness. Last, but not least, the confirmation test demonstrates that the experimental and statistical findings are consistent.
Narrative Review: Cardiotoxicities and Cardiac-Sparing Techniques in Radiotherapy
Authors: Chan Maria F. , Parikh Dhwani , Shi Chengyu
Published: December 2024

This review article aims to synthesize existing data on radiation-induced heart diseases in patients undergoing chest radiation therapy and also explores cardiac-sparing techniques to mitigate cardiotoxic effects. We conducted a comprehensive database search to review and consolidate data regarding chest radiotherapy and effects on the heart as well as techniques to minimize exposure to the heart. The research findings demonstrate associations between radiation exposure to cardiac substructures and subsequent cardiotoxicity. This review also stresses the importance of identifying patients at high-risk for cardiotoxicity as well as advocates for the adoption of stringent cardiac dose constraints in these patients. Advanced cardiac-sparing techniques, notably respiratory motion management, have emerged as pivotal strategies to minimize the likelihood of cardiac events. This narrative review emphasizes the critical role of these innovations in optimizing cardiac health during radiation treatment.
Proposed Model for Video Game-to-Series Adaptation and Intermedial Translation Based on the Case of Fallout
Authors: Freire-Sánchez Alfonso , Vidal-Mestre Montserrat , Fitó-Carreras Maria
Published: December 2024

This study analyses the elements involved in adapting a video game or video game saga into a film or series, aiming to propose a model of film adaptation by identifying independent intertextual and intermedial variables. A review of specialized literature in game studies, cinematography, intertextuality, intermediality, and adaptation was conducted. Independent variables were extracted and used to analyze the series adaptation of the Fallout saga. The results are discussed in relation to theoretical precepts from the literature. The findings allow for the proposal of a cinematic adaptation model that interprets different narrative and digital levels of video games. Key elements include the narrative base, construction of an independent story, addition, omission, intermedial translation, suppression, and manageable complexity.
Personal variation in patient-centered relevance Index based on individual characteristics and medical conditions among patients with diabetes Mellitus in Korea
Authors: Park Hyeki , Park Eun-Cheol , Lee Woo-Ri , Chun Sungyoun
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to identify patients at higher risk for regional disengagement from health services using the Patient-centered Relevance Index (P-RI).

Methods

This nationwide retrospective cohort study analyzed the relationship between the P-RI and individual patient characteristics, including medical conditions and healthcare utilization patterns. The National Health Insurance Service claims database was used to characterize healthcare utilization by 3,046,914 patients with DM from 2017 to 2020.

Results

As compared to the mild condition group, all other groups had a lower P-RI. Significant differences were observed among the groups with P-RI lower by 16.5%, 14%, 13%, 0.4%, and 0.6% in the repeated inpatient treatment (β = −0.165, P < 0.001), complication (β = −0.141, P < 0.001), extended long-term care stay (β = −0.130, P < 0.001), comorbidity (β = −0.041, P < 0.001), and other (β = −0.058, P < 0.001) groups, respectively. Additionally, the P-RI was high among low-income and older patients with high acuity.

Discussion

South Korea's healthcare delivery system is not regionally self-sufficient. A relatively low P-RI in the high income and younger groups indicates healthcare access inequity. Therefore, a continuous management system that ensures uniform healthcare access needs to be established.
Research on improving thermal performance of prefabricated sintered hollow wallboard with optimizing filling materials
Authors: Chen Lunan , Zhou Yan , Zhang Zhiwei , Chen Jinjin , Xia Caichu
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this paper is to obtain the optimal filling scheme for improving thermal performance of the prefabricated sintered hollow wallboard considering both summer and winter conditions, and achieve self-insulation. Effects of different measures of installing separated paperboard, filling Phase Change Material (PCM) and Thermal Insulation Material (TIM) in the prefabricated wallboard are studied by experiment and COMSOL numerical methods. Firstly, the paperboard is installed in the middle of all cavities to reduce convection heat transfer. The experiment results show that average peak heat flux of the exterior surface in the three test days decreases by 5.25 W/m2 after installing the separated paperboard. Secondly, different filling positions (inner, middle, and outer cavities) and different phase change temperatures (23°C–27°C, 28°C–32°C, and 33°C–37°C) are discussed by COMSOL numerical model in summer condition, and the model is verified by the experimental data. Results show that better scheme is PCM (28°C–32°C) filled in the middle cavities of the prefabricated wallboard, which can increase the delay time and the attenuation factor of interior surface temperature by 2.92 h and 13.66, respectively, compared with no filling scheme. Finally, based on the optimal PCM filling scheme, schemes filled with TIM in different position of other cavities are also analyzed to further improve thermal performance of the prefabricated wallboard throughout the year. Results show that PCM (28°C–32°C) filled in the middle cavities and TIM filled in inner cavities has better effect in summer, and TIM filled in both inner and outer cavities is much better in winter. The evaluation indicators of the two better schemes in summer and winter are compared comprehensively, and the difference is not obvious. The results can provide optimal filling scheme and theoretical guidance for improving thermal performance of the prefabricated sintered hollow wallboard in hot summer and cold winter climate.
Using ring-pins for the treatment of ulnar styloid fractures
Authors: Sakamoto Sotetsu , Hattori Yasunori , Doi Kazuteru
Published: December 2024

We report the use of 1.0 mm ring-pins for ulnar styloid fractures. Ten patients treated with ring-pins showed good clinical results, achieving bone union without complications. Ring-pins offer a simple, reliable alternative to traditional tension band wiring.

Level of evidence: IV
Warm in 2008 Versus Cold in 2022? A Comparison of China-Related News in the US Media During the Beijing Summer and Winter Olympic Games
Authors: Kuang Xianwen
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the evolution of American news reports on China hosting the 2008 Summer and 2022 Winter Olympic Games, within the context of changing China–US relations. Existing studies on media coverage of the Beijing Olympics typically focus on either the Summer or the Winter Games individually, with none exploring the specific associations between bilateral relations and the agenda-setting processes of the US news media. To fill the gap, the study conducts a quantitative content analysis on reports from seven influential US news organisations which have covered issues in China during both Beijing Olympic Games. Findings reveal a marked increase in politicisation and negative sentiment in US news reports on China in 2022 compared to 2008. This suggests a strong correlation between the evolving China–US relations and the selection of news agendas and tones by US media.
Molecular Mechanism of Sangmei Zhike Granules in Treating Allergic Asthma: Insights from UPLC-MS/MS and Network Pharmacology
Authors: Li Kai , Zhang Shi-yu , Huang Gui-rui , Cui Hong-sheng
Published: December 2024

Background: Asthma has become an increasingly serious and prevalent public health issue. Chinese herbal medicine holds promising potential as an adjunctive therapy for asthma. This study employed ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques to investigate the therapeutic mechanism of Sangmei Zhike granule (SZG) in the management of allergic asthma. Methods: Initially, UPLC-MS/MS was utilized to identify the primary compounds absorbed into the bloodstream following SZG administration. Subsequently, network pharmacology was applied to predict the targets and key pathways of SZG in treating allergic asthma. Furthermore, molecular docking technology was employed to validate certain predictions derived from network pharmacology. Results: A total of 70 compounds were identified using UPLC-MS/MS. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that active compounds such as schisandrin A, magnoflorine, phaeocaulisin E, and arglabin may play a role in the therapeutic effect of SZG on allergic asthma. These compounds exert their effects by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including JAK-STAT, HIF-1, and PI3K/AKT.Molecular docking analysis of core components and target proteins suggested good binding affinities between the core components and most target proteins, except JAK2, CXCL-8, and TNF. Conclusion: Results from UPLC-MS/MS and network pharmacology indicate that the active compounds present in SZG exert their therapeutic effects on asthma through multiple targets and signaling pathways. These compounds are implicated in the management of type 2-high asthma, type 2-low asthma, and mixed asthma, suggesting a potential efficacy of SZG in non-allergic asthma as well. These findings may provide valuable insights for future investigations on the therapeutic potential of SZG in asthma treatment.
Baseline Study of Ultra-Clean Air Change Rate, Number, and Type of Microorganisms and Level of Particles During Trauma Surgery
Authors: Lans J.L.A. , Mathijssen N.M.C. , Goswami P.R. , van den Dobbelsteen J.J. , Luscuere P.G. , van der Elst M.
Published: December 2024

Background: The objective of an operating room (OR) ultra-clean ventilation system is to eliminate or reduce the quantity of dust particles and colony-forming units per cubic meter of air (CFU/m3). To achieve this, ultra-clean goal high air change rates per hour are required to reduce the particle load and number of CFU/m3. Aim: To determine the air quality in an ultra-clean OR during surgery, in terms of the number and type of microorganism and quantity of dust particles in order to establish a benchmark. Methods: Number of CFUs and the quantity of dust particles were measured. For measuring the CFUs, sterile extraction hoses were positioned at the incision, the furthest away positioned instrument table, and the periphery. At these locations, air was extracted to determine the quantity of dust particles. Findings: The number of CFU/m3 and particles was on average at wound level ≤1 CFU/m3 resp. 852.679 particles, at instrument table ≤1 CFU/m3 resp. 3.797 particles and in the periphery ≤8 CFU/m3, resp. 4.355 particles. Conclusion: The number of CFUs in the ultra-clean area is below the defined ultra-clean level of ≤10 CFU/m3 for ultra-clean surgery. The quantity of dust particles measured during surgery was higher than the defined ISO 5.
The practical and ethical challenges of identifying, accessing and obtaining school canteen transactional data for public health research
Authors: Gilmour Alice , Fairchild Ruth
Published: December 2024

Objective

The purpose of the study was to investigate the feasibility of using existing data to better understand what pupils purchase during the school day and its nutritional quality. This report highlights the ethical challenges experienced in attempting to obtain anonymised school canteen transaction data for public health research.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted before a variety of approaches were tried to recruit secondary schools for the study via purposive sampling.

Results

Barriers encountered included (i) identifying data providers, (ii) identifying data owners, (iii) data sharing and (iv) engaging stakeholders. The approaches taken to mitigate each of these barriers and subsequent ethical issues are summarised so that future researchers are aware of any potential problems. Failure to overcome these blockages meant that the original study had to be curtailed.

Conclusions

School canteen transactional big data remains an underutilised research resource which has immense potential for understanding adolescents’ dietary choices and nutritional intake across the school day. The inaccessibility of anonymised datasets for public health research and complex political issues surrounding data ownership and sharing must be discussed and effort should be made to circumvent barriers. Establishing the current landscape of school food and drink would be beneficial for policymakers, educators and public health researchers.
Differences in teletherapy and telecare?—Experiences of health professionals and patients with video communication in nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy
Authors: Lichtenauer Norbert , Schlachetzki Felix , Eberl Inge , Meussling-Sentpali Annette
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The spread and implementation of digital synchronous video communication in telecare and teletherapy has recently increased significantly, not just because of COVID-19 but also due to a global trend towards more digital healthcare services in the last two decades. This shift prompts the question of how digital telesetting differs from a face-to-face setting and which aspects are fundamental.

Methods

As the first part of a mixed-method study, qualitative interviews ( n = 20) were conducted from July 2021 to January 2022. Health professionals ( n = 13) and patients ( n = 7) from occupational therapy, physiotherapy, speech therapy, and nursing were interviewed. All interviewees came from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The results were categorized using structured content analysis.

Results

Six main categories and 20 sub-categories were summarized, which can act as barriers or resources in a telesetting. Both sides described a high level of acceptance and approval of telesetting. Motivation and digital skills were of great importance. Furthermore, special features in communication and interaction were described, as well as changes in organizational procedures and a specific process flow in telesetting. Including relatives was more feasible, although several environmental factors should be considered.

Discussion

A number of specific changes in a telesetting compared to a face-to-face setting show the need for a structured guide for interested parties. Appropriate basic principles must be taught in training and further education to support the spread of this new form of care. Furthermore, it is crucial to adapt the methodological and content-related aspects of telesetting and develop new approaches that specifically integrate audio-visual possibilities.
CNS B cell infiltration in tumefactive anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease
Authors: Ikeguchi Ryotaro , Kanda Natsuki , Kobayashi Masaki , Masui Kenta , Nitta Masayuki , Misu Tatsuro , Muragaki Yoshihiro , Kawamata Takakazu , Shibata Noriyuki , Kitagawa Kazuo , Shimizu Yuko
Published: December 2024

Background

Few studies have examined B cells among patients with anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), including brain pathology.

Objective

To describe cases of tumefactive MOGAD with B-cell dominant central nervous system (CNS) infiltration.

Methods

In this study, we reviewed three cases with clinical and brain histopathological features with tumefactive MOGAD.

Results

Forty-nine cases of tumefactive brain lesions (TBL) between January 2003 and December 2023 were included; of these, seven had MOGAD. Three underwent a brain biopsy. B-cell dominant CNS infiltration was observed in two cases. In two cases with B-cell dominant CNS infiltration, symptoms included fever, headache, nausea, somnolence, and focal neurological deficits. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed both mild pleocytosis and negative oligoclonal IgG bands. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed large abnormal lesions extending from the basal ganglia to the parietotemporal lobe in both cases. These cases showed a good response to steroids; however, one case relapsed. Brain pathology showed demyelination and perivascular lymphocytic infiltration. One showed small vessel vasculitis. Deposition of the activated complement component was absent or rarely observed. Loss of MOG was observed in two cases.

Conclusion

MOGAD could exhibit B-cell dominant CNS infiltration and small vessel vasculitis. MOGAD should be considered in differential diagnosis of TBL.
What Impact Do Medicolegal Complaints Have on Canadian Plastic Surgeons?
Authors: Zhang Zach , Hawary Hassan El , Oxley Paul , Gilardino Mirko S. , Arneja Jugpal S.
Published: December 2024

Background: Being named in a medicolegal complaint can be a lengthy process filled with uncertainties. Its current impact on Canadian plastic surgeons is unknown. We aim to review the impact of medicolegal complaints and provide advice for surgeons on how to prevent, minimize, and navigate through the medicolegal process. Method: An anonymous survey was sent to registered Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada certified plastic surgeon members. The survey collected data on surgeon demographics (clinical status, gender, practice type, volume), medicolegal complaint history and outcome, impact on practice, and insights into the process. Surgeons with an inactive practice and invalid contact information were excluded. Results: Out of 456 invited plastic surgeons, 100 responses were included, 73% were male, with an even distribution of practice types and years in practice. Most were Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA) members. A significant portion (62%) had been named in a medicolegal action, primarily related to treatment complications (42%) and poor outcomes/disease progression (34%). Factors associated with complaints were greater years in practice ( P<.01), and a higher annual volume of operating room cases ( P=.02). The duration of the medicolegal process varied, with the majority taking 1-2 years. Respondents predominantly agreed that CMPA provided adequate legal defence (83%, 53/64). However, most surgeons felt the process had a significantly negative impact on their mental health (75%, 48/64). After being involved in a complaint, many surgeons modified their practice pattern by increasing documentation/consent process (45%, 29/64), avoiding certain procedures (22%, 14/64), and avoiding care of high-risk patients (19%, 12/64). Conclusion: Despite legal resolution in favour of the physicians, the results of this survey indicate the medicolegal complaint process has a significant impact on plastic surgeons’ practices, time, and mental health. Understanding the medicolegal process and outcome is crucial for risk mitigation.
Development and Evaluation of a Loudness Validation Method With Natural Signals for Hearing Aid Fitting
Authors: Exter Mats , Jansen Theresa , Hartog Laura , Oetting Dirk
Published: December 2024

Loudness is a fundamental dimension of auditory perception. When hearing impairment results in a loudness deficit, hearing aids are typically prescribed to compensate for this. However, the relationship between an individual’s specific hearing impairment and the hearing aid fitting strategy used to address it is usually not straightforward. Various iterations of fine-tuning and troubleshooting by the hearing care professional are required, based largely on experience and the introspective feedback from the hearing aid user. We present the development of a new method for validating an individual’s loudness perception of natural signals relative to a normal-hearing reference. It is a measurement method specifically designed for the situation typically encountered by hearing care professionals, namely, with hearing-impaired individuals in the free field with their hearing aids in place. In combination with the qualitative user feedback that the measurement is fast and that its results are intuitively displayed and easily interpretable, the method fills a gap between existing tools and is well suited to provide concrete guidance and orientation to the hearing care professional in the process of individual gain adjustment.
The Relationship Between Quality of Life and Social Support Among Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nazzal Sukayna , Ayed Ahmad , Zaben Kefah Jehad , Abu Ejheisheh Moath , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Batran Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Pregnant women require social support and healthcare treatments that are specifically designed to address their quality of life (QoL) during this time, as this will help them get through this crucial stage with more resilience and comfort.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the relationship between the QoL of pregnant women and social support.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 423 pregnant women. Data were gathered through the SF-36 scale and the “Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support” in the period of June 1 to September 1, 2023.

Results

The physical health level was moderate ( M = 46.22 ± 16.1), and the mental health level was also moderate ( M = 46.12 ± 21.8). Social support was rated high ( M = 5.3 ± 1.0), with the highest score in the significant other subscale ( M = 5.9 ± 1.2) and the lowest in the friend's subscale ( M = 4.4 ± 1.6). Furthermore, the analysis revealed a significant positive association between the QoL scores and social support ( p < .05).

Conclusions

The study confirmed that Palestinian pregnant women had a moderate level of QoL and a high level of perceived social support. Additionally, it established a significant small positive relationship between the QoL scores and social support among pregnant women.
Teaching Sex- and Gender-Sensitive Medicine Is Not Just a Matter of Content
Authors: Wortmann Laura , Oertelt-Prigione Sabine
Published: December 2024

Despite a growing integration of sex and gender-sensitive content in medical education around the globe, the focus on content often leads to a lack of consideration of the hidden curriculum. To foster an inclusive, sex- and gender-sensitive culture in medical education, we have to take a holistic approach that transcends a sole focus on explicit teaching content. This article provides reflections about the practice of teaching sex and gender-sensitive medicine focusing on the impactful yet implicit notions we convey about sex and gender in medical education. We propose action for leaders and teachers in medical education to explicitly address sex/gender in the hidden curriculum and within their institution, challenging the invisible practices of academia in the medical field.
A Methodological Framework for Stimuli Control: Insights From Numerical Cognition
Authors: Shilat Yoel , Henik Avishai , Galili Hanit , Wasserman Shir , Salzmann Alon , Salti Moti
Published: December 2024

The stimuli presented in cognitive experiments have a crucial role in the ability to isolate the underlying mechanism from other interweaved mechanisms. New ideas aimed at unveiling cognitive mechanisms are often realized through introducing new stimuli. This, in turn, raises challenges in reconciling results to literature. We demonstrate this challenge in the field of numerical cognition. Stimuli used in this field are designed to present quantity in a non symbolic manner. Physical properties, such as surface area and density, inherently correlate with quantity, masking the mechanism underlying numerical perception. Different generation methods (GMs) are used to control these physical properties. However, the way a GM controls physical properties affects numerical judgments in different ways, compromising comparability and the pursuit of cumulative science. Here, using a novel data-driven approach, we provide a methodological review of non symbolic stimuli GMs developed since 2000. Our results reveal that the field thrives and that a wide variety of GMs are tackling new methodological and theoretical ideas. However, the field lacks a common language and means to integrate new ideas into the literature. These shortcomings impair the interpretability, comparison, replication, and reanalysis of previous studies that have considered new ideas. We present guidelines for GMs relevant also to other fields and tasks involving perceptual decisions, including (a) defining controls explicitly and consistently, (b) justifying controls and discussing their implications, (c) considering stimuli statistical features, and (d) providing complete stimuli set, matching responses, and generation code. We hope these guidelines will promote the integration of findings and increase findings’ explanatory power.
A Guide to Prototype Analyses in Cross-Cultural Research: Purpose, Advantages, and Risks
Authors: Sun Yuning , Kinsella Elaine L. , Igou Eric R.
Published: December 2024

The prototype approach provides a theoretically supported basis for novel research, detailing “typical” cognitive representations of targets in question (e.g., groups, experiences). Fairly recently, in social and cognitive psychology, this approach has emerged to understand how people categorize and conceptualize everyday phenomena. Although this approach has previously been used to study everyday concepts, it has predominantly been overlooked in cross-cultural research. Prototype analyses are flexible enough to allow for the identification of both universal and culture-specific elements, offering a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the concept in question. We highlight theoretical, empirical, and practical reasons why prototype analyses offer an important tool in cross-cultural and interdisciplinary research while also addressing the potential for reducing construct bias in research that spans multiple cultural contexts. The advantages and risks of conducting prototype analyses are discussed in detail along with novel ways of integrating computational approaches with traditional prototype-analyses methods to assist in their implementation.
Strategic Planning for Workplace Motivation and Engagement: Exploring Personal and Economic Factors in the Indian Agriculture Sector
Authors: Panigrahi Rajeshwari , Panigrahi Rashmi Ranjan , Singh Neha , Shrivastava Avinash Kumar
Published: December 2024

The study aims to develop a robust scale for assessing farmers’ satisfaction levels, emphasizing personal, quality, and cost parameters within India’s agricultural sector. Comprehensive data is gathered from agricultural workers across diverse districts in Andhra Pradesh, India, through surveys and interviews. The research unfolds in two phases: an initial qualitative exploration is done to identify factors that drive motivation and engagement in farming, followed by a questionnaire distributed to 431 respondents in the subsequent phase. The investigation underscores the pivotal role of personal factors and the quality and pricing of production factors in ensuring the sustainability of agriculture. The strategic insights derived from this study hold immense value for agricultural managers and leaders, providing an understanding of motivation and engagement dynamics among farmers. These findings bear significant implications for policymaking at both country and state levels, facilitating the formulation of innovative agricultural policies and programs. Specifically, this research offers guidance for designing supportive financial strategies, such as support prices and input assistance measures, aimed at boosting farmers’ morale and participation.
Maestro Pizza: Disrupting the Pizza Business Model in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bashir Makhmoor , Ansari Zaid Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Maestro Pizza, established in 2013, significantly impacted the pizza industry in Saudi Arabia. The founder and CEO, Khalid Al Omran, identified an opportunity to enter the market with a low-price strategy by acquiring a small pizza outlet in Riyadh and rebranding it as ‘Maestro’. Maestro Pizza became a success story in no time and expanded to over 150 stores. Initially, the big players in the pizza industry ignored Maestro, with the impression that their business strategy was different, which helped Maestro Pizza remain under the radar. However, as soon as Maestro started opening just next to these branded outlets, depriving them of customer traffic, Pizza Hut shut down everywhere in Saudi Arabia except ‘Jeddah’, and Domino’s started reducing its prices massively to compete with Maestro. Many other regional pizza outlets started following the same strategy, which increased the competition and reduced the prices, further shifting the competition to pure price-based. Furthermore, to make matters worse, coronavirus disease-2019 disrupted Maestro’s supply chains, which impacted quality control. What can Maestro do to maintain its competitive edge in the market?
From capacitalism to disability justice in academia: A philosophical manifesto
Authors: Berthelot-Raffard Agnès
Published: December 2024

North American universities try to promote equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization (EDID). However, accessibility for people with disabilities is often overlooked. Questioning the roots of academic ableism and proposing new concepts, this article, a decolonial and anti-capitalist manifesto, serves to reconceptualize knowledge and question what the author calls the “intellectual contract” on which universities are built. In this philosophical manifesto, the author posits that the obstacles encountered by disabled university students are rooted in a narrow conception of knowledge, which stems from the coloniality of power and an innovative concept: “racial ableism,” a term that emphasizes the interconnectedness of capitalism, colonialism, race, and ableism.
Social media in climate change communication: State of the field, new developments and the emergence of generative AI
Authors: Schäfer Mike S
Published: December 2024

Social media have transformed climate change communication and become central for sharing information, facilitating dialogue, and driving mobilization. Accordingly, research on the topic has grown. The article discusses recent yet under-researched developments regarding social media in climate change communication: from their detrimental impact on climate journalism, the pros and cons of the short-video revolution and the emergence of “dark platforms” over climate-related initiatives by social media and the role of influencers to new forms of individual engagement. It concludes with reflections on the role of generative AI in climate change communication.