bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Culturally Prevalent Patterns of Nonverbal Behavior Can Influence Discrimination Against Women Leaders
Authors: Lamer Sarah Ariel , Beck Haley B. , ten Brinke Leanne , Preston Gillian Michelle
Published: February 2025

We propose that people learn biases against women leaders through patterns of nonverbal behavior depicted in media. Specifically, we hypothesized that (a) people encounter culturally prevalent patterns of nonverbal behavior that favor men leaders over women leaders and (b) seeing patterns of nonverbal behavior favoring men leaders causes people to prefer working under men than women. An analysis of nonverbal behavior directed by and at leaders in 18 popular TV shows revealed that interactions between women leaders and their subordinates were more negative than those between men leaders and their subordinates. In two experimental studies, participants ( N = 193: 53% women, 47% men, 78% White, Mage  = 19.5 and N = 237: 75% women, 25% men, 77% White, Mage  = 18.45) exposed to this nonverbal bias favoring men (vs. a nonverbal bias favoring women) were more likely to choose to work for a White man than a White woman leader. This work has implications for understanding one mechanism through which gender stereotypes of leadership are transmitted and upheld in social groups. Additional online materials for this article are available on PWQ’s website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/03616843251318964.
The Glycogen Synthase Kinase–3 Inhibitor CHIR99021 Reduces Fatty Infiltration and Muscle Atrophy After Rotator Cuff Tears: An In Vitro Experiment and In Vivo Mouse Model
Authors: Zhang Pu , Zhou Meng , Zhu Yiming , Xie Jianhao , Huo Ziqi , Zhang Dan , Li Pinxue , Guo Jianxun , Li Guangping , Li Xu , Wang Renxian , Jiang Chunyan
Published: February 2025

Background:

Rotator cuff tears (RCTs) can cause inflammation, muscle atrophy, and irreversible fatty infiltration, resulting in poor clinical outcomes. Effective therapeutic approaches to inhibit fatty infiltration in rotator cuff muscles remain limited.

Purpose:

To identify pathways associated with fatty infiltration through RNA sequencing and to evaluate the therapeutic potential of the glycogen synthase kinase–3 (GSK-3) inhibitor CHIR99021 based on enrichment of the Akt/GSK-3 pathway identified by RNA sequencing.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Supraspinatus muscle biopsy specimens from 6 patients with chronic full-thickness RCTs were analyzed by RNA sequencing. Fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) or C2C12 myoblasts were cultured with different doses of CHIR99021 to assess their effects on adipogenic or myogenic differentiation, respectively. RNA sequencing identified cellular pathways in FAPs treated with or without CHIR99021. A mouse RCT model was established by detaching the supraspinatus tendon, followed by treatment with or without CHIR99021 administered intraperitoneally. Muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration were assessed histologically and through gene expression analysis at 1 and 4 weeks after surgery.

Results:

RNA sequencing analysis identified a marked upregulation of the Akt/GSK-3 signaling pathway specifically in patients’ samples and FAPs with minimal fat accumulation. CHIR99021 suppressed adipogenic differentiation in FAPs and promoted myogenic differentiation in C2C12 cells. In the mouse RCT model, CHIR99021-treated mice exhibited reduced Oil Red O staining, a larger cross-sectional area, and less muscle weight loss in the supraspinatus muscle compared with the vehicle-treated mice. Gene expression analysis indicated increased myogenesis and reduced fatty infiltration at 1 and 4 weeks after surgery as well as increased expression levels of IL-6 and IL-15 in the CHIR99021 group compared with the control group at 1 week after surgery.

Conclusion:

The Akt/GSK-3 pathway was enriched in supraspinatus muscle samples and FAPs with low fat accumulation, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. The GSK-3 inhibitor CHIR99021 was shown to alleviate fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy after RCTs in vitro and in vivo in a mouse model.

Clinical Relevance:

The GSK-3 inhibitor CHIR99021 shows potential for treating muscle degeneration after RCTs.
Undergraduate Student Attitudes Toward and Interests in Working With Older Adults: An Exploratory Study of Nursing and Social Work Majors
Authors: Apgar Dawn , Hynes Deloris
Published: February 2025

As the world’s population ages, the demand for competent and skilled workers to assist older adults is rapidly increasing. An exploratory study that surveyed undergraduate nursing and social work majors at a university in the northeast ( N = 89) revealed that nursing students had fewer stereotypical views about older adults than social work students, though both student groups had similar perceptions of the challenges and satisfaction of working with older adults. Social work students were more likely to indicate an interest in focusing their careers on working with older adults, though only a small proportion of both nursing and social work students thought that working with older adults had high status. Internships with older adults were not related to enhanced interest in working with this population. Findings raise concerns about future workforce shortages in settings serving older adults and the ability of educational programs to raise interest in caring for this population.
Understanding food surplus: Challenges and strategies for reducing food waste – A mini-review
Authors: Oroski Fabio de Almeida
Published: February 2025

Food waste constitutes one of the major obstacles to building sustainable food systems. While there is a wealth of research on the primary causes of food waste, little attention has been given to the link between surplus production and waste generation. Current approaches to reducing food waste predominantly focus on redistributing surplus rather than preventing its formation. This study conducted a systematic literature review (SLR) to delve into the concept of food surplus and understand its relationship to food waste. It also seeks to pinpoint the key challenges and limitations of redistributing food surplus. This SLR revealed that the definition of food surplus is ambiguous and lacks clear parameters for determining what qualifies food as surplus. As a result, food edible for consumption is often categorized as surplus and may or may not be recovered. The classification of food as surplus or waste is intricate and is influenced more by economic factors than physical characteristics. While food redistribution via food banks is crucial for addressing food insecurity, it encounters technical and operational obstacles that limit high levels of food recovery. Therefore, preventive strategies should be implemented to curb overproduction, which appears to be the root cause of surplus formation and waste. However, reducing overproduction requires structural changes in the current food system logic.
Introductory Editorial: Shaping the Future of Educational Computing Research
Authors: Allison Jordan
Published: February 2025

This introductory editorial outlines the vision and priorities for the Journal of Educational Computing Research (JECR) under new editorial leadership. Emphasising the interdisciplinary nature of educational computing, the editorial highlights the journal’s commitment to advancing research at the intersection of technology and education. Critical challenges for the field are identified pertaining to the ethical and societal consequences of educational computing technologies, such as the ethical implications of AI, the digital divide, and equity in technology access. Proposed initiatives for the journal include an expansion of scope, refining article categories, expanding the editorial board for international representation, and enhanced communication through editorials. By addressing the societal impacts of educational computing and promoting rigorous scholarship, JECR aims to remain a leading platform for impactful research.
Encoding and decoding a postcolonial constellation. Challenges for the national museum of Colombia
Authors: Oettler Anika , Pérez Benavides Amada Carolina
Published: February 2025

The Colombian mnemonic landscape constantly shifts, adjusting to local demands and transnational tropes and devices. In Colombia, many museums and exhibitions are places that bring to light the diverse mosaic of history and, especially, the legacies of more than four decades of armed conflict that has left millions of victims. Building on Rivera Cusicanqui’s thoughts on decoloniality and applying Hall’s encoding/decoding model, we examine how current decolonial conceptions of history as “heterogeneous historico-structural nodes” (Mignolo) have manifested in the Colombian National Museum practice. Based on our experience as curator, educator, and visitor, and paying particular attention to visual and other sensory aspects, we critically engage with current scriptwriting and the idea of the inclusive and transformative museum. We argue that this museum was pioneering new curatorial practices that questioned linear narratives of history, and offers critical, inclusive and fragmented narratives as well as multiple interpretative spaces around objects.
Not My Problem: How Social Identity Shapes Problem Perceptions and Policy Attitudes
Authors: Moniz Philip
Published: February 2025

Social identity plays a central role in mass politics, shaping the perceptions citizens have of politically relevant phenomena. Does identity bias perceptions of social problems, leading citizens to show preferential concern for problems affecting their ingroup? If so, why? Most experimental research has not found evidence of such ingroup bias, but when it has, it has not distinguished empirically between ingroup favoritism or outgroup hostility, leaving open the question of whether identity biases people for their group or against outgroups. Also unclear is whether symbolic or self-interested motivations drive ingroup bias. Employing a variety of social identities and social problems, three survey experiments show citizens perceive problems affecting outgroup members as less serious and more strongly oppose government aid in those cases. Ingroup favoritism was not found because participants did not perceive ingroup victims as more similar than non-identified victims. Outgroup hostility was driven more by concerns stemming from self-interest than symbolic identity-based motivations.
Primary Renal Well-Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumor: A Clinicopathologic and Immunohistochemical Analysis of a Case Series With Emphasis on Potential Diagnostic Pitfalls
Authors: Jia Liwei , Nadeem Urooba , Kapur Payal
Published: February 2025

Introduction. Primary renal well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor may present a unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. In this retrospective study, we offered insights derived from our clinical experience. Methods. A search of our institutional database (1998–2023) was performed to identify primary renal well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, followed by comprehensive clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis, with emphasis on potential diagnostic pitfalls. Results. Five primary renal well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors were identified, all of which exhibited a combination of nested, trabecular and tubular growth patterns and renal parenchymal infiltration. Two tumors invaded into the renal sinus. The expression of commonly-used neuroendocrine markers was detected in 5 tumors and PAX8 immunostain was negative in all tumors. During a median follow-up of 119 months (range 12–142 months), one patient received adjuvant chemotherapy due to regional lymph node metastasis at the time of diagnosis. The patient was found to haveliver metastasis at 15 months after the surgery by imaging. This tumor harbored BRAF c.1/99T>A, p.V600E and CDKN2A c.35delC, p.S12fs variants. Liver metastasis was identified in another patient 142 months after his initial presentation. No local recurrence or distant metastasis was detected in other patients. Conclustions. Our experience demonstrates that primary renal well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors may exhibit indolent behavior, even tumors with local invasion. Most patients were managed with surgical resection alone. In daily practice, they may be misdiagnosed as renal cell carcinomas, especially in biopsy specimens, due to their rarity. Our study expands the clinicopathologic characteristics and immunohistochemical features of this rare entity to raise awareness, with emphasis on potential diagnostic pitfalls.
Carbon footprint of a chemotherapy production unit within a hospital pharmacy: Time for green pharmacy
Authors: Chabane Manon , Fagnoni-Legat Christine , Hosotte Camille , Jehl-Rave Maryline , Barbier Garance , Bonnot-Perrin Sophie , Sadeghipour Farshid , Carrez Laurent , Limat Samuel , Kroemer Marie
Published: February 2025

Background

In the last decade, environmental impact assessment has become a major concern for human activities, which is particularly true for health. The french healthcare sector emits approximately 49 million tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2eq) per year, approximately 8% of the total national Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. In this context, assessing the carbon footprint of a resource-consuming unit like the cytotoxic drug production unit (CPU) is essential. The study aimed to assess the carbon footprint of a CPU.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in a french CPU producing more than 51,000 preparations per year in 2022. Global warming impact of CO2eq emissions were determined for medicines (using the French monetary Emission Factor), single-use material (using the Base Empreinte® database), energy of electrical devices, staff transportation and waste.

Results

The carbon footprint of the CPU was equal to 18’230.7 tons of CO2eq. Antineoplastic drugs accounted for more than 18’179 tons of CO2eq emissions. Excluding the medication part, it was equal to 51.7 tons of CO2eq. More precisely the distribution of CO2eq emission sources were staff transportation (35.9%), waste (21.1%), single-use sterile medical devices (18.1%), energy consumption (9.3%), disposable personal protective equipment (8.5%), and solvent bags and bottles (7.1%).

Conclusion

This study prompts us to identify the main sources of GHG emissions within a CPU. Areas for improvement to reduce global warming impact might be deprescribing of antineoplastic drugs, staff transport reduction using telecommuting or carpooling and rethinking our production process to reduce waste production.
Targeted shortwave diathermy combined with perceptual training for patients with severe traumatic optic neuropathy
Authors: Tang Qingping , Zhang Hua , Deng Huayang , Zhou Quan , Zhang Wei , Tian Mingqin , Huang Zilong , Jiang Hui , Jiang Weihong , Xie Zhihai
Published: February 2025

Background

Patients with severe traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) often show limited improvement in visual function despite therapy.

Objective

This study aims to investigate whether targeted shortwave diathermy (SWD) combined with perceptual training enhances visual function in patients with severe TON following endoscopic optic nerve decompression (EOND) surgery.

Methods

Forty patients with severe TON after EOND surgery were randomly assigned to either the rehabilitation (Reh) group ( n = 24) or the non-rehabilitation (Nreh) group ( n = 16). Subjects in the Reh group received targeted SWD therapy and perceptual training. Visual function, visual evoked potentials, and diffusion tensor imaging were evaluated.

Results

After 16 weeks of rehabilitation, the best-corrected visual acuity ( p = 0.006) and color vision scores ( p = 0.026) in the Reh group improved significantly more than those in the Nreh group. Two children who had completely lost their visual acuity 62 and 73 days after experiencing TON regained visual acuity scores of 1.0 logMAR or lower after rehabilitation. After 10 weeks of rehabilitation, the mean P100 amplitude ( p = 0.012) and fractional anisotropy (anterior segment, p = 0.032; middle segment, p = 0.014) of the affected nerves in the Reh group were significantly higher than those in the Nreh group.

Conclusions

Targeted SWD combined with perceptual training demonstrated beneficial effects in patients with severe TON after EOND surgery. Notably, this study provides the first evidence of visual function recovery occurring 73 days after complete vision loss in child with TON when combined rehabilitation was implemented.
Knot So Simple: A Double Square Knot in a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)
Authors: Madivanan Masilamani , Qureshi Faisal , Paliwal Bharat
Published: February 2025

We present an inadvertent unusual complication of a double square knot found within a PICC in this case report. PICCs are known to cause catheter-related bloodstream infection, catheter malfunction, thromboembolism, catheter migration, and catheter fracture is reported. But the occurrence of double square knot is the rarest complication during insertion which led to unexpected challenges during removal and to our knowledge there are no case reports of this rarest event. We discuss the case presentation, management, and clinical implications of this rare complication.
‘I’m looking for support, solidarity, and anecdotes from anyone who has been through something similar’: A content analysis of parents seeking or sharing advice on breastfeeding via Reddit
Authors: Yates Julia , Jackson Kimberley T , Booth Richard
Published: February 2025

Parents are increasingly turning to social media for breastfeeding-related information. Reddit, which allows users to anonymously discuss with individuals around the world, has recently increased in popularity among parents. Given breastfeeding’s importance, it is imperative to examine the behaviours of information-seeking parents to ascertain what information is being sought out and shared. The purpose of this study was to explore parents’ use of Reddit to seek out and share breastfeeding-related information. The Naturalistic Inquiry method was employed to explore data extracted from the breastfeeding SubReddit (i.e. a forum of a particular topic where users can post/discuss the topic; /r/breastfeeding). Via thematic analysis, four themes emerged: (1) breastfeeding-related challenges; (2) ‘normal’ behaviours for age/development of infant; (3) weaning; and (4) returning to work. An increased understanding of the factors involved in parents’ decisions to seek support online, rather than from professionals, may provide important insights into breastfeeding support gaps.
Experimental investigation of the effects of JP8 and amorphous elemental boron additives on combustion characteristics for i-DSI engine
Authors: Kantaroğlu Emrah , Doğan Ahmet
Published: February 2025

The combustion of conventional fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to atmospheric pollution and climate change. The use of alternative fuels in internal combustion engines represents a significant step towards mitigating these issues. In this study, the effects of JP8, a fuel used in space, missile, rocket, and aviation applications, and mixtures of amorphous elemental boron (AEB) on combustion were tested using a commercial i-DSI engine with dual spark ignition. Tests were conducted by blending gasoline with 0% (G100), 10% (JP8_10), 20% (JP8_20), 30% (JP8_30), and 40% (JP8_40) JP8 by mass. Additionally, new mixtures were tested by adding 2% AEB by mass to each gasoline-JP8 fuel (G100_2AEB, JP8_10_2AEB, JP8_20_2AEB, JP8_30_2AEB, JP8_40_2AEB). Performance metrics such as torque, power, mean pressure, specific fuel consumption, volumetric efficiency, and exhaust temperature, as well as emissions of CO, CO2, UHC, and NOx, were measured. The maximum performance torque from the engine catalog is 119 Nm at 2800 rpm, while the tests measured it at 105.84 Nm. Torque, power, and mean pressure, which are functions of each other, increased by 2.239% from G100 to JP8_40 compared to gasoline, and this increase was 5.125% for JP8_10_2AEB. Specific fuel consumption decreased by 5.424% with JP8_40 fuel and by 9.199% with JP8_10_2AEB fuel compared to gasoline. CO emissions decreased by 38.187% with JP8_40_2AEB fuel compared to gasoline. CO2 emissions increased by 34.456% with JP8_40_2AEB fuel. UHC emissions decreased by 57.589% with JP8_30_2AEB fuel. NOx emissions increased by 118.036% with JP8_40_2AEB fuel, while increasing by 124.861% with JP8_40 fuel.
Japanese preschool-aged children’s gratitude as a moral virtue: Is the development of gratitude culture-specific?
Authors: Kato-Shimizu Mayuko , Hinobayashi Toshihiko
Published: February 2025

Gratitude has been regarded as a moral virtue in most cultures. This study examines how cultural differences may influence children’s expression and understanding of gratitude. Two vignettes involving a high- and low-cost situation of expressing gratitude were presented to Japanese preschool-aged children, and their responses to the scenarios were recorded. Compared with the results of a previous study conducted with American children (Nelson et al., 2013), more Japanese children associated positive feelings with the benefactor when they were helped, would help the benefactor if they were in need, and cited reciprocity as a reason for doing so. The findings confirm the hypothesis that the emergence of gratitude as a moral virtue is also observed in preschool children from non-Western countries, and commonalities in moral development across cultures were found. At the same time, depending on the cost incurred by the benefactor on offering help, we found cultural differences in various aspects of gratitude. The findings suggest that gratitude, which encompasses the norm of reciprocity, is triggered in Japanese children in response to the cost to the benefactor.
On summoning queer joy in early childhood education: Some findings from New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Burkholder Casey , Whitty Pam , Malins Pam , Keehn Melissa
Published: February 2025

What might the concept of queer joy offer to early childhood educators in New Brunswick, Canada? As a part of a study about the supports and barriers to comprehensive sexuality education in New Brunswick, Canada, we sought to speak with early childhood educators about the ways in which sexuality education happens in early childhood centers. We wondered: What kinds of sexuality education is already happening within early childhood centers and under what conditions? What do educators need to feel supported in this work? In a study with 11 early childhood educators, we found that they often spoke about 2SLGBTQI+ people and families through a lens of inclusion. Yet, despite this inclusion of 2SLGBTQI+ identities into the normative ECE space, there was no understanding of queerness and transness as joyful—and no real thinking through what queerness and transness might offer the educator and the classroom space in early childhood centers. As we imagine the possibilities for sexuality education within ECE contexts, we look forward to seeing what might happen when children and educators summon queer joy.
Effect of styrene content on structure and properties of vulcanizates from natural rubber grafted with polystyrene
Authors: Hayeemasae Nabil , Soontaranon Siriwat , Zakaria Zunaida , Mohamad Rasidi Mohamad Syahmie , Masa Abdulhakim
Published: February 2025

Graft copolymer from natural rubber grafted with polystyrene (NR-g-PS) was prepared. Influences of polystyrene (PS) content grafted on the natural rubber (NR) were investigated. Prior to compounding and compression molding to vulcanizates, the graft copolymers were prepared by emulsion polymerization. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance confirmed the chemical structure of the graft copolymer as NR-g-PS. Grafting of PS onto NR improved the tensile modulus and tensile strength of the vulcanizate, whereas the elongation at break decreased, depending on the PS content. However, a drastic reduction of tensile strength and elongation at break were seen when the PS content was greater than 20%. Compared to ungrafted NR, the onset strain for deformation-induced crystallization of graft copolymers was reduced, while the crystallinity at a given strain was higher. The improved tensile properties and crystallization ability suggest interfacial interactions of NR and PS phases. Such interactions were also responsible for improved thermal stability of the graft copolymer, having the degradation temperature increased by 17–38°C over the ungrafted NR. The best balance in overall properties was achieved by NR/PS 90/10.
Concentration of Selected Serum Trace Elements in Male Patients With Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Yu Zhe , Pan Zhenliang , Cai Rongbo , Xie Yuanzhi , Huang Xiaolan , Wu Jinxiang , Zhang Jianyu
Published: February 2025

Identifying novel risk factors for erectile dysfunction (ED) is crucial for developing targeted intervention. This study aimed to investigate the potential impacts of serum trace elements (TEs) concentration on the risk of diabetic ED. A retrospective case–control study was conducted involving 51 patients with diabetic ED and 51 control subjects. Serum levels of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), and calcium (Ca) were measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). While most selected TEs showed no significant differences, Cu levels were notably higher in patients with diabetic ED. In addition, the Cu/Zn ratio (CZr) was significantly elevated in the diabetic ED group compared to controls (1.3 vs. 1.2 mg/L, p < .001), reflecting its potential relevance to oxidative stress. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that CZr exhibited better diagnostic performance for ED than the single parameter. These findings suggest disruptions in Cu homeostasis and a high probability of elevated CZr in diabetic ED. Further studies are warranted to validate our findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Pragmatic Approaches to Team-Based Qualitative Analysis of Study Participants’ Exit Interview Data in a Pragmatic Clinical Trial
Authors: Barnhill Jessica L. , Morone Natalia E. , Lathren Christine , Harr Elondra , Baez Jose E. , Rodriguez Ruth , Gardiner Paula , Greco Carol M. , Thomas Holly N. , Gaylord Susan A. , Roth Isabel J.
Published: February 2025

The OPTIMUM trial is a multisite pragmatic randomized clinical trial of an adapted Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program for people with chronic low back pain in primary care settings provided via telehealth group medical visits. Researchers conducted fifty-nine exit interviews at the end of the intervention to inform the ongoing conduct of the trial and to better understand patients’ experiences. This manuscript describes a pragmatic approach to the qualitative analysis of exit interviews within a pragmatic clinical trial. The analysis included three important pivots. First, researchers conducted a process evaluation using a rapid approach called the Lightning Report method. Second, team-based approaches to qualitative analysis were utilized to pair experienced and inexperienced qualitative researchers. Third, based upon principles from Big Qual methodology, a codebook was developed and applied to provide an aerial overview of the data in preparation for more in-depth exploration. Based upon these pivots, the process evaluation provided actionable results in a timely fashion, team members increased analytical skills, and multiple analyses are being applied to the data set. By describing the pragmatic decisions to pivot approaches to qualitative analysis, this manuscript contributes to existing literature regarding rapid qualitative analysis methods for process evaluation in pragmatic clinical trials, team-based mentorship in large trials, and applications from Big Qual for large data sets.
Establishing the role of shear wave elastography in differentiating corporal rigidity between vasculogenic versus non-vasculogenic erectile dysfunction patients
Authors: Singh Pushpendra , Sharma Aditya Prakash , Chowhan Prabhjyot Singh , Gorsi Ujjwal , Mavuduru Ravimohan S , Rehsi Simarjit Singh , Lal Anupam , Mete Uttam K
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

Shear wave elastography is a new modality for the evaluation of erectile dysfunction by assessing the stiffness of corpora cavernosal tissue. We evaluated the shear wave elastography values in erectile dysfunction participants and compared shear wave elastography values between vasculogenic and non-vasculogenic erectile dysfunction participants.

Methods:

Overall, 40 participants with clinically diagnosed erectile dysfunction filled out an abridged five-item version of the international index of erectile dysfunction-5 questionnaire and underwent shear wave elastography as well as pharmacologically induced penile erection test after intracavernosal papaverine injection. Shear wave elastography values were obtained serially at 5-minute interval at two locations: Central (cavernosal artery centered circular region) and Peripheral (near the tunica albuginea). Shear wave elastography values were compared with the erectile dysfunction subtypes.

Results:

Median international index of erectile dysfunction-5 score was 11 (interquartile range: 9–14). Median central shear wave elastography values were significantly lower in the erectile state as compared to flaccid state in both vasculogenic (8.27 kPa (interquartile range: 6.3–12.5) vs 23.27 kPa (interquartile range: 15.9–28.6) p = 0.000) and non-vasculogenic (5.50 kPa (interquartile range: 4.4–6.7) vs 23.85 kPa (interquartile range: 17.8–33.6) p = 0.000) erectile dysfunction participants. Vasculogenic erectile dysfunction participants had significantly higher central shear wave elastography value in erectile state than non-vasculogenic erectile dysfunction participants (8.27 kPa (interquartile range: 6.3–12.5) vs 5.50 kPa (interquartile range: 4.4–6.7) p = 0.001). Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis revealed that the cut-off value for central shear wave elastography was 5.65 kPa in erectile state with the sensitivity, and specificity for predicting vasculogenic erectile dysfunction being 90.9% and 61.1%, respectively (area under the curve −0.816; standard error of 0.071 ( p = 0.001)).

Conclusion:

Central cavernosal shear wave elastography is a good modality to objectively quantify the penile rigidity and can be used to distinguish the subtype of ED.
Factors affecting the caregiver burden of family members to palliative care patients: A descriptive and cross-sectional study
Authors: Kes Duygu , Özcan Aynur , Adahan Didem
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Many factors affect caregiver burden. Limited studies exist on the effect of social support and fatigue on family caregivers. This study aims to explore the impact of fatigue and social support on the burden experienced by family caregivers of palliative care patients.

Methods

The study was conducted with 80 family caregivers. Data were collected using the Piper Fatigue Scale, the Burden Interview, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. Regression analysis was used to evaluate the data.

Results

The regression analysis revealed that higher scores on the MSPSS were significantly associated with lower Burden Interview scores (p < 0.05). Conversely, higher PFS scores were significantly correlated with increased Burden Interview scores (p < 0.05).

Discussion

Both fatigue and social support play a critical role in shaping the caregiving burden experienced by family caregivers. Interventions aimed at reducing caregiver fatigue and enhancing social support may help alleviate this burden.
The landscape of validity and reliability practices from applied performance analysts: Establishing a best practice framework
Authors: Francis John William , Kyte Jamie Lee , Bateman Michael , Nicholls Scott Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Whilst Theoretical Performance Analysts benefit from established validity and reliability frameworks, their practical application faces several challenges for Applied Performance Analysts (APAs). We explored the current practices and perceptions regarding validity and reliability by APAs to formulate best-practice recommendations. An open and closed-answer survey was completed by 175 APAs from a range of sports and countries, with responses analysed based on experience (early-career APAs vs experienced APAs). Findings reveal a desire for robust validity and reliability methods, particularly among experienced APAs. Collaborative approaches amongst APAs and other stakeholders were identified when determining performance indicators, yet decisions for live data collection were primarily made by APAs. Familiarisation and reliability processes varied, specifically the frequency of checks, with experienced APAs dedicating more time to learning new systems and checking data more frequently. Despite the existing theoretical frameworks, time constraints and personnel changes pose challenges for practical implementation, with APAs calling for an applied framework. These insights inform the development of a best-practice recommendations framework for collecting, analysing, and presenting accurate and meaningful performance analysis data in applied settings.
Weathering the game: A comprehensive study of weather impact on ODI cricket
Authors: Wickramasinghe Indika , Walpitage Dammika
Published: February 2025

The game of cricket is one of the most popular team games. Its influence continues globally, with efforts by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to expand the game to other regions and make it more inclusive beyond the commonwealth countries. Weather has become an integral part of cricket because the game is played outdoors, and the weather can impact the game in many ways. Though there are numerous cricket-related studies in the literature, there is a shortage of research work focusing on the impact of the weather on the game. This study considers one-day international cricket games played during the last decade and conducts an in-depth analysis to quantify the impact of weather-related factors on batting and bowling. Furthermore, we extend the analysis to explore weather-prone cricket venues, and at the end, we accurately predict the result of a weather-affected game. According to the experimental outcomes, the nature of the weather (clear, overcast, rainy, sunny) and some of the weather–related parameters such as temperature, heat index, humidity, dewpoint, precipitation, win-speed, pressure, and the amount of light significantly impact both batting and bowling at various stages of the game. When predicting the winner of the weather-affected game, the Bagging model can predict the winner with an accuracy of 79%, recall value of 84%, and precision of 76%.
Levetiracetam dosing in continuous renal replacement therapy: A systematic review and development of a novel pharmacokinetic model to optimise dosing in critically ill patients. Do recommended doses achieve therapeutic drug concentrations?
Authors: Sweatman James , Al-Mahdi Sarraa , Lonsdale Dagan O , Leaver Susannah , Rhodes Andrew
Published: February 2025

Aim:

Levetiracetam is a widely used anti-epileptic in the critical care setting that is almost exclusively (>90%) renally excreted. The altered pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam have been widely studied in intermittent haemodialysis but the evidence and guidance on dosage in continuous renal replacement therapy is varied and poorly defined. Understanding this is critical as a significant number of critically unwell patients develop renal failure requiring continuous renal replacement therapy. The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the pharmacokinetics of levetiracetam in such patients and to understand the implications on dosing strategies.

Methods:

A systematic review of the available literature from 2000 to November 2022 was conducted. Seven articles were identified for inclusion from 54 records. A novel hybrid model was developed to evaluate the quality of pharmacokinetic and haemofiltration data. This data was used to develop a one-compartment model that simulated dosing strategies in 10,000 patients based on an assumed steady state of 72 hr and target trough concentrations of 12–46 mcg/mL.

Results:

From the seven articles included, pharmacokinetic data was retrieved for 24 individual patients. Total clearance was 3.49–4.63 L/hr (mean 3.55, S.D. 0.52). Elimination half-life was 5.66–12.88 hr (mean 9.41, S.D. 2.86). Volume of distribution was 0.45–0.73 L/kg. The proportion of total clearance attributable to continuous renal replacement therapy was 52%–73% (mean 54.7%, S.D. 13.5). Our simulations demonstrate that more than half of patients who received twice daily doses of 750 mg or greater without a loading dose achieved therapeutic drug concentrations. The time to achievement of therapeutic drug concentrations was greatly reduced by the addition of a 60 mg/kg loading dose (up to a maximum of 4.5 g). The use of a reduced loading dose or twice daily doses of 500 mg or less without loading were more likely to result in prolonged sub-therapeutic drug concentrations.

Conclusion:

Levetiracetam clearance in haemofiltration is similar to healthy adults with normal renal function (GFR > 90 mL/min). The use of reduced doses due to renal failure in critically ill patients may result in sub-therapeutic drug concentrations in a high number of patients. A twice daily dosing of 750–1000 mg with an initial loading dose of 60 mg/kg should be considered in such patients alongside therapeutic drug monitoring.
Clinical and functional outcomes of hand surgery for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Calavul Abdulkadir , Cici Hakan , Zeybek Hakan , Kılıç Ali İhsan
Published: February 2025

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa causes blistering and scarring of the hands, resulting in contractures fused web spaces and altered function. The aim of this study was to present the short- and mid-term clinical and functional results of a large case series of patients who underwent surgery for recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa-related pseudosyndactyly. The study included 75 hands in 39 children (21 boys, 18 girls) with a mean age of 8 years (range, 4–15) and minimum follow-up of 1 year. Children were assessed with the Birmingham Epidermolysis Bullosa Severity Score Sheet and the ABILHAND-Kids questionnaire before operation and at final follow-up. There were varying degrees of recurrent scarring in all the hands by 24 months after operation. The ABILHAND-Kids questionnaire showed a significant improvement in ability to perform 17 of 21 tasks. In conclusion, despite recurrence that may develop in the short and mid term, surgical release can provide significant improvements in hand function.

Level of Evidence: IV
Feasibility of a Glucose Manipulation Procedure for the Standardized Performance Evaluation of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
Authors: Link Manuela , Eichenlaub Manuel , Waldenmaier Delia , Wehrstedt Stephanie , Pleus Stefan , Jendrike Nina , Öter Sükrü , Haug Cornelia , Hossmann Stefanie , Rothenbühler Martina , Brandt Derek , Freckmann Guido
Published: February 2025

Background:

In continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system performance studies, it is common to implement specific procedures for manipulating the participants’ blood glucose (BG) levels during the collection of comparator BG measurements. Recently, such a procedure was proposed by a group of experts, and this study assessed its ability to produce combinations of BG levels and rates of change (RoCs) with certain characteristics.

Methods:

During three separate in-clinic sessions conducted over 15 days, capillary BG measurements were carried out every 15 minutes for 7 hours. Simultaneously, the participants’ BG levels were manipulated by controlling food intake and insulin administration to induce transient hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia. Subsequently, the combinations of BG levels and RoCs were categorized into dynamic glucose regions distinguishing between rapidly increasing BG levels (Alert high), hyperglycemia (BG high), rapidly falling BG levels (Alert low), and hypoglycemia (BG low).

Results:

A total of 24 adult participants with type 1 diabetes were included. Capillary BG-RoC combinations showed 7.5% in the Alert high region, 13.3% in the BG high region, 9.8% in the Alert low region, and 11.0% in the BG low region. No adverse events related to the glucose manipulation procedure were documented.

Conclusions:

As recommended by the experts, the percentage of data points in regions was ≥7.5%, demonstrating the procedure’s feasibility. However, given that the recommendation for the alert high region was only barely achieved, we suggest optimizations to the procedure and definition of dynamic glucose regions to facilitate the procedures’ adoption in standardized CGM performance evaluations.
Potential Contributions of Banana Fruits and Residues to Multiple Applications: An Overview
Authors: Emmanuel Jovine Kamuhabwa , Mtashobya Lewis Atugonza , Mgeni Shedrack Thomas
Published: February 2025

Banana is among the most widely cultivated tropical plants for their diverse applications and benefits. However, this plant is being disregarded or overlooked. Therefore, the review sought to analyse the use of banana fruits and residues as a potential source of phytonutrients, phytochemicals, bioenergy, biofertilizer, and various other applications . The review was based on secondary data and information sourced from Scopus and Google Scholar databases. Annually, approximately 125 million tons of bananas and 250 million tons of fresh residues are produced, highlighting their pivotal role in nutrition, health, and industrial processes. Banana fruits and residues have proven to be good sources of phytonutrients and phytochemicals that offer therapeutic benefits. Banana by-products also hold promise in promoting sustainability through applications such as bioenergy and biofertilizers. For instance, banana peels serve as a substrate for biogas production, while starches derived from bananas are used to produce bioethanol. Additionally, biodiesel production from banana oil not only provides a renewable energy source but also addresses agricultural waste management. In agriculture, banana residues enhance soil fertility and productivity when processed into biofertilizers, offering an eco-friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers. Fibres from banana plants find applications in the production of environmentally friendly textiles, while their bioactive compounds hold potential for pharmaceutical advancements. The multifaceted uses of bananas and their residues, spanning food, medicine, bioenergy, and industrial domains, underscore their importance as a resource for sustainable development.
Delivery Services and Online to Offline in Retailing: An Empirical Investigation in Taiwan During the Covid-19 Pandemic Period
Authors: Liao Shu-Hsien , Widowati Retno , Chan Shang-Chen
Published: February 2025

The Covid-19 pandemic began as early as November 2019, the epidemic has altered the process and habits of business and consumer transactions. With the Internet and apps, delivery platforms are popular and changes in mobile payment methods have facilitated retail operations by providing delivery services. Online to offline is a retail model using online marketing and online purchases to drive offline operations and consumption. This leads to several research questions about Taiwan retail in this study. First, what do retail operators in Taiwan provide for the delivery service process? Second, what are the profiles of the delivery service of consumers in Taiwan? Third, what are the preferences for delivery services and purchasing modes online to offline in different consumer segments? Fourth, what profiles, patterns and rules should retail operators consider making their delivery service online to offline model more competitive in retail? Using a questionnaire survey ( n = 1,169), data mining analytics including clustering analysis and association rules, are implemented on a relational database to generate knowledge patterns and rules for delivery service retail operators that can serve Taiwan retail customers in online to offline business models. Finally, practical implications and suggestions for Taiwan retailing operators are also presented.
World Models and Digital Twins: Urban Simulation and Generative AI
Authors: McKim Joel
Published: February 2025

This commentary responds to Gillian Rose's essay ‘Visualising human life in volumetric cities: City digital twins and other disasters'. It highlights Rose's recognition that City Digital Twins are always discursive projections as much as they are actual working simulations, constituted in part by a surrounding ecology of other texts and images that work to transform tech hype into tech reality. The commentary expands on the ‘twin'-nature of all digital images - how their status as both human and machine-readable objects allows them to function as simulations mediating between the realms of the computational and the sensory. The commentary concludes by exploring recent developments in moving image Generative AI. It questions the ‘world modelling' and ‘world simulation’ claims of these technologies.
The Role of Justice in Addressing the Social Determinants of Health
Authors: Gilboe Sara , Curran Liz
Published: February 2025

This article explores social determinants of health (SDH) in the global context and their connection to justice and human rights. Critiquing prevailing top-down approaches, it demonstrates that policy responses can be divorced from local factors necessary for addressing SDH. The authors examine health justice partnerships (HJPs) and how interdisciplinary collaboration between health and legal services can address inequality and health disparities. This discussion is timely given the Hague Declaration on Equal Access to Justice for All by 2030 formulates five pillars of people-centered justice. From the 2023 “Plan of Action” comes a “Joint Statement and Call to Action on the Rule of Law and People-Centered Justice: Renewing a Core Pillar of Democracy,” creating alignment between SDH and justice approaches for coordinated action. This article demonstrates how HJPs offer a unique avenue for driving change at the community level, advocating for systemic transformations to address poverty, inequality, and injustice. By driving change from local to international levels, multiple voices provide lenses for problem solving. Using American philosopher Carol C. Gould's theory of human rights, the authors explore how joint-disciplinary perspectives and moving beyond paternalistic intervention through integrating justice, human rights, and democracy can respond to drive outcomes in SDHs.
Achieving Financial Sustainability Through Financial Reorganisation: Evidence from the Ellora Paper Mills Ltd
Authors: Sethi Pallavi , Singh Archana , Gupta Vikas
Published: February 2025

All the sectors of the economy strive to get the limited finances that are available in the economy. The financial environment of the economy should ensure that restricted funds are available for firms that can make the best possible use of them. In that scenario, all firms on the verge of bankruptcy or facing financial distress need to release their funds for use by efficient firms in the economy. The present study intends to assess the impact of financial reorganisation on the operating efficiency of Ellora Paper Mills Ltd. This private limited company manufactures a variety of colour paper in India.

The empirical study is based on secondary data extracted through the company’s Financial Statements using the CMIE-Prowess database for The Ellora Paper Mills Limited from 2007–2008 to 2022–2023. Altman’s z-score model was used to consider the level of sickness, and the regression model was applied to the various ratios, assessing profitability, liquidity, solvency, and efficiency for hypothesis testing with the help of SPSS.

The results indicate that the company’s operating efficiency improved significantly post-financial reorganisation. The study provides insight into how finance/funds need to be allocated/reallocated to firms to achieve the goal of economic sustainability through financial restructuring.