bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nervous Extensions for Planetary Balance in Nina Sobell’s Collaborative Séances
Authors: Albu Cristina
Published: December 2024

Artist Nina Sobell uses electronic media to unveil the invisible ties between ourselves and others. Addressing the transformative potential of nonverbal communication, the author analyzes Meditations, Memory, Dream, Fantasy and Solar Wind Weaving Sun and Moon, Sharing a Shadow, two collaborative projects created by Sobell in 1999 to inspire collective acts of imagination. Merging images of brainwave oscillations with video feedback and automatic drawing, these participatory artworks elicit a heightened sense of embodied presence and emphasize the interdependence between planetary and human rhythms.
Tracking the origin and current distribution of wall lizards (Podarcis spp.) in Poland
Authors: Kowalik Carmen , Skawiński Tomasz , Boesl Dominik , Celiński Damian , Jablonski Daniel , Kolenda Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

Among the most successful European reptilian invaders are lizards of the genus Podarcis. Human activities have facilitated the spread of these lizards beyond their native range, often establishing thriving populations in new locations. Poland lies beyond the northern range of all Podarcis species, but between 2011 and 2014, three populations representing the Central Balkan clade of P. muralis were discovered in the Strzelin Hills (SW Poland). Our aim was to determine the current distribution and introduction routes of Podarcis lizards into Poland. We searched for P. muralis in 44 additional localities (with conditions known to be preferred by the species in Central Europe, such as ruins of abandoned buildings, railway stations, and quarries) in the Strzelin Hills as well as surveyed literature sources and online platforms to identify cases of introduction of Podarcis lizards into Poland. No new sites with P. muralis have been discovered in the Strzelin Hills and the occurrence of the species in this area is limited to three already known sites. Nine cases of the introduction of wall lizards were confirmed. These ranged from single individuals of P. muralis or P. siculus introduced via freight transport and captured immediately after, to two introductions of P. muralis that resulted in the establishment of populations that persisted for at least several years. Molecular analyses showed that the introduced lizards originated from several ‘exotic’ lineages (i.e., not the Central Balkan clade) from Italy and Croatia, although secondary introductions are possible. Given the ability of southern lineages to establish viable populations in Poland, continued monitoring is essential.
The multigenerational and cross-national artist family Verelst (c. 1618-1752): The myth of Cornelius and Maria
Authors: Hancox Peter
Published: December 2024

The number of practising artists in the multigenerational Verelst family in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries has led to confusion as to their identification, partly because of the repetition of names between generations. Pieter Verelst (c. 1618-1668) worked in Dordrecht, Rotterdam, The Hague and possibly London, training several of his sons, certainly Herman (1641-1699), Simon (1644-1717?), John (1648-1679), and possibly William (1651-1702). By the mid 1660s, Pieter, Herman, Simon and John were active in the Low Countries but struggling financially. Pieter and Simon emigrated to London with John following via France. Herman worked in Venice, Ljubljana, and Vienna (where he and his family had to flee ahead of the Turkish siege of 1683) before settling into a successful career in London.

Four of Herman’s children became portraitists. John (c. 1670-1734) was initially successful as a court painter but failed to maintain his position, ending in bankruptcy. Michael (c. 1675-1752) became a provincial artist in Nottingham. Lodvick (1668-1704) was also a portraitist. Adriana (c. 1683-1769) was successful with commissions from the aristocracy and landed gentry; an unsuccessful marriage deprived her of wealth but she received a generous legacy from a friend which compensated.

One of Pieter’s great grandchildren, William (1704-1752), was the last of the artistic line. Like his father, John (c. 1670-1734), he had a career with some success as a portraitist with commissions from the East India Company and the Georgia Trustees as well as landed gentry, although it ended in bankruptcy.

Literature from Weyerman in 1729 onwards refers to two other artists in the family: ‘Cornelius’ and a female artist at first named as ‘N. Verelst’ or ‘Mlle Verelst’ but eventually named as ‘Maria Verelst’ by Bryan in 1816. There is no contemporary evidence for either under those names: it is argued that they are mis-namings of William (1651-1702) and Adriana respectively.
Carnival in Trinidad
Authors: Murphy Patrick
Published: December 2024

This essay focuses on the Pierrot and the Pisse-en-lit Carnival characters during the 1880s and 1890s. Pierrots rambled on about recondite events; spelled out convoluted words in a show of their supposed wisdom; and brawled with other Pierrots to commandeer streets. As to the Pisse-en-lit, these often-transvested revelers displayed bloodied clothes; exposed their underwear to passers-by; simulated sexual intercourse; carried chamber pots on their heads; and/or held sticks protruding from between their legs. The article outlines Trinidad’s historical context and features sections on both the Pierrot and the Pisse-en-lit, followed by a brief conclusion. The Pierrot and the Pisse-en-lit were part of an unsettled cultural arena which was adjusting to unbridled migration to the cities, the consolidation of a Black middle class, and the growth of Victorian morality. Both born from and broken by the conditions of the nineteenth century, the figures emerged out of fraught circumstances, meeting their demise as those circumstances decisively shifted.
An Archive of Silences
Authors: Camoglu Arif
Published: December 2024

This article bridges the gap between postcolonial studies and Ottoman literatures by revisiting the Ottoman Turkish novel as an archive that indexes the silencing of domestically enslaved women. Centering its discussion on Ahmet Mithat Efendi’s novel, Felâtun Bey ile Râkım Efendi, I argue that Ottoman Turkish novels from the late nineteenth century register and contribute to a historical-political unvoicing of women who are detained in the slave economy of the empire. Enslaved women in numerous fictional works from the period are censored in that they are compelled to rehearse a language that shies away from confronting the institutionality of slavery and slave trade. I propose that this representational muting parallels, and thereby calls into question the ongoing marginalization of the Ottoman context of enslavement in postcolonial literary-historical interrogations.
Molecular and morphological assessment of the Liopholis inornata (Rosén, 1905) species group (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae), with descriptions of two new species from northern Western Australia
Authors: APLIN KEN P. , MARYAN BRAD , ARMSTRONG KYLE N. , PAVEY CHRIS R. , DONNELLAN STEPHEN C.
Published: December 2024

Molecular genetic and morphological assessments were undertaken on the Liopholis inornata species group of skinks that occur on sandy soils in both mesic and arid regions of Australia. The primary objective was the taxonomic identification of two outlying peripheral populations from the North-West Cape and Purnululu National Park, in northern Western Australia. To provide adequate context, molecular genetic and morphometric variation was assessed across the wide geographic range of L. inornata, a taxon that is strongly phylogeographically structured. It was also necessary to reassess the taxonomic identity of two previously named taxa from central Australia, L. s. slateri (Storr) and L. s. virgata (Storr). Phylogenetic analyses of nuclear SNPs from extant populations confirm that L. inornata, L. s. slateri and the two outlying populations from northern Western Australia are each distinct evolutionary lineages. Prior to analyses of the extent of morphological divergence between the lineages, we assessed the extent of morphometric differences between the sexes using two well-sampled species, L. inornata and L. striata (Sternfeld) from Western Australian populations. We determined that while males have relatively longer, wider and deeper heads throughout life these differences are relatively slight and the data from both sexes could be pooled for subsequent morphological interspecific comparisons. The two outlying populations are distinguished from congeners based on phylogenetic relationships and divergence in nuclear nucleotide sequences and distinctive morphometric and colour attributes and thus represent new species. The new species both occur in biogeographically significant areas that contain several other endemic reptile species. Liopholis s. virgata, for which we currently lack genetic data, is morphometrically and chromatically different from all the other taxa and very likely represents a distinct species that is potentially extinct as it has not been sighted for more than a century.
A bilateral gynandromorph of Tenodera sinensis Saussure, 1871 (Mantodea: Mantidae) from Japan
Authors: OSHIMA KAZUYUKI , TOSHIMA KENTO
Published: December 2024

This is a first description of a complete bilateral gynandromorph in Mantodea, as well as the first description of a complete gynandromorph of Tenodera sinensis Saussure. This specimen, collected from Kasai-Rinkai Park in Tokyo, Japan, exhibits predominantly male characteristics on the left side of its body and female characteristics on the right side. The left lateral has some features of male, and the notable differences between right and left lateral were found on the antennae, the ocelli, the compound eyes, the forewings and abdominal sternites VII to IX.
Geographic Arbitrariness in Capital Punishment: Death as an Inhabited Institution
Authors: Ulmer Jeffery T. , Zajac Gary , Rodriguez Ashley E.
Published: December 2024

The U.S. criminal legal system is highly localized. This reality extends to what U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer called “geographic arbitrariness” in the implementation of the death penalty. The inhabited institutions perspective, augmented with concepts from Weber’s sociology of law, frames our analysis of how a local process that is not arbitrary—prosecutors’ interpretations of statutory aggravating factors—result in geographic arbitrariness in the aggregate, in which defendants’ exposure to the death penalty is strongly conditioned by locality. We utilize data coded from prosecutors’ office case files and court docket transcripts, as well as interviews with current and former District Attorneys and Assistants in Pennsylvania, to illuminate prosecutorial death penalty decisions and their interpretations of statutory aggravating factors. Our analysis is driven by two sets of questions. First, how do prosecutors differ in the filing of specific aggravating factors in the face of similar factual circumstances? Second, how do prosecutors evaluate the meaning of the aggravators and decide whether to seek the death penalty? We show that prosecutors inhabit death penalty statutory law by (1) defining statutory aggravators, drawing comparisons and contrasts from experience with prior cases; (2) making strategic assessments of how local juries will view evidence; (3) normatively evaluating individual cases, offenders, and—crucially—victims; and (4) subjectively evaluating the legal value of aggravating factors themselves. Because ambiguity in statutory aggravators necessitates differing interpretations by prosecutors, death penalty law ensures geographic arbitrariness.
The state of mental health in Greece: An international comparative analysis using data from the Global Mental Health Countdown 2030
Authors: Kotsis Konstantinos , Marchionatti Lauro Estivalete , Simioni André , Schafer Julia Luiza , Evans-Lacko Sara , Saxena Shekhar , Kline Sarah , Kousoulis Antonis , Koumoula Anastasia , Salum Giovanni Abrahão
Published: December 2024

Background:

Effective mental health systems depend on the functioning of a variety of factors that can be systematically monitored across countries. Macro-level assessments are needed to identify potential areas for improvement in the health sector, particularly in countries that face significant access barriers such as Greece.

Aim:

To analyze Greece’s mental health-related indicators in comparison to countries with similar socioeconomic contexts and geography and identify priority areas for the national mental health system.

Methods:

Data was sourced from the Global Mental Health Countdown 2030, an initiative gathering 48 indicators from 193 countries, classifying metrics into four domains: mental health system performance, determinants of mental health, factors influencing the demand for care, and wellbeing. We analyzed 39 indicators available for Greece to perform a comparative analysis with three groups of countries (27 European Union, 55 high-income, and 52 upper-middle income nations). We employed content analysis to organize mental health system indicators into a framework to inform policy and practice.

Results:

Greece exhibited low performance in several indicators related to mental health provision, with four metrics falling below the 12.5th centile for all comparative groups (‘interventions in primary care’, ‘policy implementation’, ‘promotion and prevention’, and ‘frequency of collection of data’). A content-analysis framework grouped indicators into categories related to the mental health system, with low-scoring metrics clustering around ‘policy and planning’, ‘affordability of care’, ‘coordination of services’, and ‘data collection and quality assessment’.

Conclusion:

This analysis provides a contextualized overview of Greece’s mental health system, identifying areas for improvement based on a panel of evidence-based indicators. Priority policy actions should focus on enhancing mental health insurance coverage and freely-available mental health services, organizing provision into a stepped-care and coordinated service network, and establishing systematic data monitoring mechanisms with unified electronic registers.
Hybrid aluminum/composite specimens of the thin–walled square cross–section under flattening experiments
Authors: Honarmand Vahid , Niknejad Abbas , Ziaee Sima , Mehdi Elhamian Seyed Mohammad , Baroutaji Ahmad
Published: December 2024

Thin–walled specimens are widely used in various applications, such as automotive bumper, buildings, bridges and warehouse shelve. Investigation of a reinforcement composite coating on sides of thin–walled metal specimens can be valuable, based on their collapse behavior. This article performs an experimental study to investigate energy absorption characteristics of hybrid aluminum/composite specimens of thin–walled cross–section under quasi–static lateral loading; and also, to optimize them by the Taguchi method. To achieve the goals, experimental specimens are manufactured in three different groups. Some thin–walled aluminum specimens are produced by the extrusion and tested as simple specimens or the benchmark (the first group). Then, as the second group, each vertical edge of some aluminum specimens is reinforced by a composite coating. Four different glass fibers and two different resins are used to produce the hybrid specimens. Each specimen of the second group is reinforced by a certain fiber type and with 1, 3, or 5 layer numbers; and their crashworthiness properties are measured during the flattening tests. Effects of fiber types and layer numbers of the composite stiffener are investigated on crushing behavior of the hybrid samples. Their results illustrate that hybrid metal/composite specimens with a 5–layer stiffener has the best performance. Therefore, as the third group, design of experiments is performed by the Taguchi method and several optimized hybrid specimens are introduced as the main output of the optimization process. Results illustrate that total absorbed energy of some reinforced specimens are 6.21 times of the corresponding value of the benchmark.
Self-Collection for HPV-Based Cervical Screening: Knowledge and Attitudes of Australian Health Care Workers in an Area With Low Screening Rates, July–November 2023
Authors: Cheng Elvin , Stubbs Joanne M. , Achat Helen M.
Published: December 2024

Cervical screening is crucial for early detection of and ultimately eliminating cervical cancer. Conventional methods for cervical screening that rely on clinician collection of specimens encounter barriers, including embarrassment, discomfort, accessibility, and cultural concerns. Self-collection offers a promising solution to promote cervical screening among underscreened populations. Both methods are available to screen eligible patients since changes to the Australian screening program in 2022. We surveyed Australian health care workers at medical practices in an area with low screening rates on their views about self-collection from July through November 2023. Findings revealed gaps in knowledge about appropriate test use and test accuracy. In addition, findings showed a preference for clinician collection and perceptions that their patients lack confidence in self-collection and lack the willingness to learn about self-collection for cervical screening. Lack of up-to-date information on self-collection logistics and accuracy and pessimistic views on the ability of patients to perform self-collection can hinder the use of self-collection for cervical screening. Addressing these concerns through comprehensive education, easy-to-access guidelines, and interventions designed to support self-collection as part of routine practice is essential, especially for improved participation among under- or never-screened patients.
Rethinking keywords in media and cultural studies during and beyond COVID-19: Editorial
Authors: Natale Simone , Li Eva Cheuk-Yin , Punathambekar Aswin , Keightley Emily
Published: December 2024

A few years after the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, discussions surrounding its impact have become noticeably less frequent within communication and media research. While the pandemic no longer occupies the central place it once held in academic discourse and public debate, it is now more crucial than ever to consider how this unprecedented global event has shaped our societies, as well as its lasting implications for communication and media worldwide. This Crosscurrents themed issue invited scholars to reflect on how the cultural and social implications of this global event solicit a reorganization and reframing of some of the existing conceptual and theoretical tools that have shaped media and cultural studies as a field. Contributors moved from one specific keyword to consider how these notions are imbricated by the crisis, either COVID-19 specifically or in more general terms. This editorial provides an overview to the themed issue and highlights the benefit of considering the impact of the pandemic from a broader and longer perspective, which moves away from the language and rhetoric of emergency.
Squares, Streets, and Mentideros: Political Communication in Public Space in Early Modern Spain
Authors: Gómez Antonio Castillo
Published: December 2024

Beyond the spheres of opinion built around the circles of power, political communication in the early modern age went through other channels accessible to a wider and more diverse public, which also included subaltern groups in that society. This article adopts a spatial and material approach to explore the role of squares and streets as channels for political discourse. While examining the significance of these spaces as a resonating box for political information, it also recognizes the importance of public engagement with other types of news and stories. Since one of the most emblematic places of public information in modern Spain was the mentidero, this study analyzes its relevance as a public political space in the seventeenth century. The focus on Madrid is due to its status as the capital of the Hispanic monarchy and to the greater density of accounts about its mentideros, notably the one situated on the steps of the convent of San Felipe, albeit primarily derived from literary sources.
Contextualizing the Development of Emotion Regulation in Early Adolescence: Results From the ABCD Study
Authors: Crumly-Goodwin Brianna , Samek Diana R.
Published: December 2024

Studies have consistently shown emotion dysregulation to be a transdiagnostic risk factor for psychological and behavioral outcomes, yet less work has identified environmental predictors of such dysregulation. Taking a social ecological approach, we investigated if proximal processes associated with micro-contexts of family, school, and peers (e.g., family conflict), as well as macro-contexts (neighborhood and socioeconomic status) and their interactions predicted overall emotional dysregulation and use of emotion regulation (ER) strategies in early adolescence. Data from Wave 4 of the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study were used ( N = 6251). Results showed support for hypotheses with multiple micro-contexts being associated with each ER outcome at varying strengths. Contrary to expectations, there was little evidence for macro-contexts and associated interactions as predictors of ER. Future directions are explored, with an emphasis on what factors may be more relevant to ER in early adolescence.
The “Past” is Sweet: An Investigation into the Aesthetic and Affective Experience of Paintings
Authors: Zhou Yizhen , Kawabata Hideaki
Published: December 2024

This study explored the relationship between nostalgia and aesthetic evaluations of visual art in the form of landscape paintings. Participants evaluated a hundred different paintings for the level of nostalgia they evoked, their beauty, positive and negative valences, arousal, and familiarity. The results indicated an association between feelings of nostalgia and beauty. Furthermore, nostalgia correlated differently with the positive and negative valences; there was a positive and negative correlation between nostalgia and positive and negative valences, respectively. Positive correlations were also observed between nostalgia and arousal and familiarity. Additionally, the paintings’ intrinsic memorability was assessed and found to have a borderline significant impact on nostalgia ratings. Interestingly, the higher the memorability of a painting, the lower the likelihood of nostalgic feelings occurring. In summation, this study sheds light on the associations between affective and aesthetic experiences using a relatively under-studied medium of triggering nostalgic feelings—paintings.
Peripheral refraction of young adults with myopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alsaqr Ali , Alharbi Manal , Aldossary Noura , Alruwished Abdulaziz , Alharbi Mohammed , Alghaib Khalid , Alabdulkarim Abeer , Shatha Alhamdan , Abusharha Ali
Published: December 2024

Objective

Peripheral refraction is associated with myopia development. Due to a varying prevalence of myopia across different ethnic groups, the aim of the present study was to investigate the peripheral refraction profile in an Arabic population.

Methods

Adults attending an optometry clinic were recruited into this cross-sectional study. Peripheral refraction of the right eyes was measured using an open field autorefractor under noncycloplegic conditions along the temporal-nasal meridians (15° and 35°) in participants with emmetropia, or low, moderate, or high myopia. Refractions were converted into power vector components, including the spherical equivalent of central refraction, J0 and J45 astigmatism. STROBE guidelines were followed for study reporting.

Results

A total of 138 adults (aged 20–29 years) were enrolled. Relative peripheral refractive error (RPRE) varied between refractive groups and increased with eccentricity. The RPRE was more hyperopic in myopia groups, with the nasal visual field being more hyperopic. A significant relationship was found between RPRE and central refraction, but not with J0 and J45 scores.

Conclusions

Participants with moderate myopia exhibited more hyperopic RPRE compared with previous findings in other ethnic groups. Hyperopic RPRE was significantly associated with myopia. Accurate RPRE measurement are essential for designing personalized lenses to slow down myopia progression. This study provides an RPRE baseline in the population investigated, which will be useful for future studies on personalized lens design, including spectacles and contact lenses.
On the impulse to impart
Authors: Power Kevin
Published: December 2024

On the Impulse to impart is about communication and language. Communication is a fundamental group-analytic theme and one on which S.H. Foulkes laid great and repeated emphasis. I look at their parts in group-analysis, how they may have originated and evolved, and at an experiment that appears to confirm Foulkes’ belief in language being the defining human attribute.
Standardized Clinical Infectious Diseases Pharmacy Care Delivery and Antimicrobial Stewardship Program Management Within a Large, Integrated Healthcare System
Authors: Harmon Stacy Lynn , LaChance Erik , Miller Jessica L , Patel Sreya , Patel Amolee R
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Infectious Diseases (ID) pharmacy expertise is crucial for the success of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) efforts. As health systems expand due to mergers and acquisitions, ID pharmacy teams strive to deliver consistent care across the enterprise. This report describes the fusion of multiple AMS practice models during the integration of health systems to optimize and standardize care delivery.

The merger of two large, community hospital systems necessitated the recalibration of services of both legacy antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). While there was agreement that ID pharmacists perform daily prospective audit and feedback of antimicrobials and respond to diagnostics and cultures, the prioritization of practices across the enterprise that retained allowances for individual hospital nuance was paramount. The result was a practice model dedicated to consistent patient care regardless of geographic location, socioeconomic status, or reliance on a single ID pharmacist's availability. Additionally, the team coordinates the system ASP, in collaboration with medical staff. This includes implementation of stewardship initiatives, formulary management and guideline and document control. Lastly, ID pharmacists serve as a resource for prescribers and pharmacy staff and leadership.

Conclusion

The development of a standardized ID pharmacy practice model delivered through a hybrid of remote and in-person coverage addressed disparities in clinical services, education and ASP management. Complexities such as care gaps during leave are reconciled with this process while maintaining the minimum expectations of every ID pharmacist. This was especially crucial to establish consistent patient care across state lines with the rise of virtual services and inability to develop on-site rapport.
D-Penicillamine Induced Myelotoxicity: A Unique Case
Authors: Abdulla Aliya , Rezvani Aryan , Nelsen Christopher , Sigala Mariah I.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: A case of D-penicillamine-related myelotoxicity in a patient with Wilson’s disease is reported. Summary: There is a paucity of literature regarding D-penicillamine (DPA) induced myelotoxicity in the setting of Wilson’s disease (WD). A 22-year-old male presented with a 1-week history of bleeding gums and dizziness. Four months prior, he had been diagnosed with Wilson’s disease and started on a regimen of DPA. His blood counts demonstrated profound pancytopenia. Due to concern for suspected drug-induced myelotoxicity, DPA was discontinued. Parvovirus B19, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and varicella zoster virus polymerase chain reaction studies were negative and there was no evidence of hematological malignancy. Bone marrow biopsy demonstrated hypocellularity and trilineage hypoplasia with corresponding aspirate flow cytometry confirming the absence of acute leukemia. The patient was started on subcutaneous granulocyte-colony stimulating factor, provided transfusion support with packed red blood cells and platelets. Despite these measures, his blood count failed to recover, and he was discharged on eltrombopag 150 mg daily with plans for outpatient transfusion support. DPA was permanently discontinued, and he was prescribed trientine 750 mg daily. Unfortunately, his myelotoxicity remained consistent, requiring regular transfusions. He is currently undergoing evaluation for bone marrow transplant. Conclusion: DPA-induced myelotoxicity is a rare clinical entity. Our case demonstrates a unique clinical presentation of this phenomenon. Guidelines to mitigate the risk of and treat this toxicity remain to be determined.
Empowering diabetic foot ulcer prevention: A novel cloud-based plantar pressure monitoring system for enhanced self-care
Authors: Wu ShuiCai , Bin GuangYu , Shi WenFei , Lin Lan , Xu YongSong , Zhao Dong , Morgan Stephen P. , Sun Shen
Published: December 2024

Background

This study was prompted by the crucial impact of abnormal plantar pressure on diabetic foot ulcer development and the notable lack of its monitoring in daily life. Our research introduces a cloud-based, user-friendly plantar pressure monitoring system designed for seamless integration into daily routines.

Objective

This innovative system aims to enable early ulcer prediction and proactive prevention, thereby substantially improving diabetic foot care through enhanced self-care and timely intervention.

Methods

A novel, user-centric plantar pressure monitoring system was developed, integrating a wearable device, mobile application, and cloud computing for instantaneous diabetic foot care. This configuration facilitates comprehensive monitoring at 64 underfoot points. It encourages user engagement in health management. The system wirelessly transmits data to the cloud, where insights are processed and made available on the app, fostering proactive self-care through immediate feedback. Tailored for daily use, our system streamlines home monitoring, enhancing early ulcer detection and preventative measures.

Results

A feasibility study validated our system's accuracy, demonstrating a relative error of approximately 4% compared to a commercial pressure sensing walkway. This precision affirms the system's efficacy for home-based monitoring and its potential in diabetic foot ulcer prevention, positioning it as a viable instrument for self-managed care.

Conclusions

The system dynamically captures and analyzes plantar pressure distribution and gait cycle details, highlighting its utility in early diabetic foot ulcer detection and management. Offering real-time, actionable data, it stands as a critical tool for individuals to actively participate in their foot health care, epitomizing the essence of self-managed healthcare practices.
Assessment of perceived realism in AI-generated synthetic spine fracture CT images
Authors: D N Sindhura , Pai Radhika M , Bhat Shyamasunder N , Pai M M Manohara
Published: December 2024

Background

Deep learning-based decision support systems require synthetic images generated by adversarial networks, which require clinical evaluation to ensure their quality.

Objective

The study evaluates perceived realism of high-dimension synthetic spine fracture CT images generated Progressive Growing Generative Adversarial Networks (PGGANs).

Methodology

The study used 2820 spine fracture CT images from 456 patients to train an PGGAN model. The model synthesized images up to 512 × 512 pixels, and the realism of the generated images was assessed using Visual Turing Tests and Fracture Identification Test. Three spine surgeons evaluated the images, and clinical evaluation results were statistically analysed.

Result

Spine surgeons have an average prediction accuracy of nearly 50% during clinical evaluations, indicating difficulty in distinguishing between real and generated images. The accuracy varies for different dimensions, with synthetic images being more realistic, especially in 512 × 512-dimension images. During FIT, among 16 generated images of each fracture type, 13–15 images were correctly identified, indicating images are more realistic and clearly depict fracture lines in 512 × 512 dimensions.

Conclusion

The study reveals that AI-based PGGAN can generate realistic synthetic spine fracture CT images up to 512 × 512 pixels, making them difficult to distinguish from real images, and improving the automatic spine fracture type detection system.
Nutritional counseling's impact on muscle mass and quality of life in stage 4 chronic kidney disease malnourished patients
Authors: Sun Weiyan , Liu Lingxi
Published: December 2024

Background

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant public health issue, affecting 37 million people in the United States. CKD often leads to malnutrition, particularly in advanced stages, contributing to muscle wasting, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs.

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to investigate the impact of early nutritional intervention and counseling on muscle mass and quality of life in malnourished stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

Methods

Clinical data from stage 4 CKD patients with concomitant malnutrition admitted to a single center from January 2023 to December 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into a standard intervention group and an early nutritional intervention and counseling group. Baseline characteristics, muscle mass parameters, quality of life assessments, nutritional parameters, and adverse events were compared between the two groups.

Results

The baseline characteristics of the study participants were well-balanced between the two groups. The early nutrition intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in muscle mass parameters, including grip strength, skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength, calf circumference, and handgrip measurement, compared to the standard intervention group. Additionally, the early nutrition intervention group showed significant enhancements in several aspects of quality of life, including physical functioning, mental health, energy/fatigue, and general health scores. Improvements in nutritional parameters, such as protein intake, caloric intake, vitamin D levels, iron levels, and zinc levels, were also observed in the early nutrition intervention group. Notably, no significant differences in adverse events were found between the two groups.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant benefits of early nutritional intervention and counseling for malnourished stage 4 CKD patients. Early nutritional support positively impacts muscle mass, quality of life, and nutritional parameters. These findings emphasize the importance of nutrition in CKD management and the need for comprehensive nutritional support as a key component of care. This research paves the way for further studies and clinical initiatives to enhance nutritional care and improve the standard of care for CKD patients.
Effectiveness of duloxetine for the treatment of vestibular migraine
Authors: Zhang Tengteng , Zhang Shuping , Sun Jinghui , Zhang He , Lv Luting , Li Jie , Wang Jiandong , Yu Zhidan , Che Fei , Wu Shuqin
Published: December 2024

Background

This study aims to estimate the effectiveness of duloxetine in treating vestibular migraine.

Methods

The study included a total of 72 patients who were admitted to the Neurology department between January 2020 and January 2022. Based on the presence or absence of duloxetine in their medical records, the patients were categorized into two groups: a duloxetine group and a control group. Parameters used to assess treatment effects on vestibular symptoms included DHI, VSS, SAS, SRSS, SF-36, and BPI. Follow-up and statistical analysis of all data were performed.

Results

Duloxetine treatment significantly reduced VSS, the DHI total score, and the number of vertiginous episodes in VM patients, while the other medicine treatment also decreased the incidence of vertiginous attacks. However, the reduction in duloxetine group presented a better treatment effect and a lower occurrence of adverse reactions contrasted to the control group.

Conclusions

This study indicates that duloxetine treatment offers significant improvements in comparison to other medicine treatment. These results align with previous research on migraine prevention and contribute to the mounting evidence that supports duloxetine was used to treat vestibular migraine.
Poly(ether-ketone)/silica nanocomposites: Storage modulus and hardness
Authors: Joshi Mandar , Goyal Akhilesh , Gadve Roshan , Upadhyay Gautam , Goyal R. K.
Published: December 2024

Dynamic mechanical properties of the poly (ether-ketone) (PEK) based nanocomposites reinforced with 0–30 wt% (0–20.2 vol%) SiO2 nanoparticles (20–40 nm) were investigated at 1 Hz over the temperature range of 30°C–250°C for the application in printed circuit boards/electronic substrates. It was found that uniform dispersion of SiO2 nanoparticles in the PEK matrix resulted in significant increase in storage modulus and microhardness. The highest increase in storage modulus measured at 50°C (glassy region) and 250°C (rubbery region) was more than 100% and 250% than that of neat PEK, respectively. The nanocomposites exhibited lower peak values of the tan δ than that of neat PEK. Scanning electron microscopy revealed good interfacial adhesion between the PEK matrix and the SiO2 nanoparticles which was validated by Kubat parameter. The glass transition temperatures determined from the loss modulus and tan δ are slightly increased for the nanocomposites. However, differential scanning calorimetry could not detect glass transition temperature.
Motivation to Become a Teacher: Emerging Trends From a Study of Preservice Teacher Education
Authors: Chandran Meera , Padalkar Shamin , Shimray Ramachan A.
Published: December 2024

This article explores the question, ‘what motivates the choice of teaching as a profession?’ Availability of adequate teachers, professionally qualified in institutions of higher education to meet the curricular and structural challenges of school education, is a critical policy concern. This article is based on a study of 54 student-teachers enrolled in a teacher education programme at a multi-disciplinary university. Student–teacher responses to a survey reveal that teaching was the first choice for almost three-fourths of the participants. Based on a three-fold categorisation of motivation as intrinsic, altruistic and extrinsic, participants are found to be strongly motivated in intrinsic and altruistic terms, further influenced by four demographic factors namely, gender, social category, type of school attended and discipline at the level of graduation. Extrinsic motivation is found to be related to social category and medium of instruction at the graduation level. Participants from marginalised backgrounds demonstrate stronger intrinsic and altruistic motivation compared to those belonging to general categories. They exhibit high levels of extrinsic motivation as well. These results are examined in the broader structural context of teacher education; implications for research, policy and practice are discussed.
Electroconvulsive therapy use in New South Wales between 1944 and 1949
Authors: Draper Brian , Wijeratne Chanaka
Published: December 2024

Aims

To identify clinical and other factors associated with the use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in New South Wales for the period 1944–1949 and to compare with contemporaneous practice.

Method

Annual reports of the Inspector-General of Mental Hospitals in NSW (1944/45 to 1948/49) were examined.

Main findings

Seven hospitals reported a total of 8964 courses of treatment during the period. Demographically, 60.6% of patients who received ECT were female, and rural hospitals reported 13.6% of courses. ECT was as likely to be given for non-affective psychoses (37.7%), as for affective psychoses (35.0%). ECT was also administered for confusional states and non-psychotic disorders. Better outcomes were observed for depression, anxiety and confusional states than non-affective psychoses. Recovery rates declined over the study period. Mortality was <1%.

Conclusions

The clinical indications for ECT in the mid-twentieth century in NSW were much broader than currently. There has been no change in the sex ratio of patients administered ECT or reported mortality.
ACT I early feasibility study of the Voyager Ark vascular access device
Authors: Ross John , Hohmann Stephen , Glowczwski Alan , Glowczwski Justin , Potnis Anishaa , Lovelady April , Gowda Ashok
Published: December 2024

Objective:

We report the 6-month outcomes of the Ark Cannulation Trial (ACT) I early feasibility study. This investigation examined the Ark as a potential innovative access tool for overcoming cannulation-related challenges and improving arteriovenous fistula (AVF) dependent hemodialysis through targeted cannulation.

Methods:

During this first-in-human, interventional, prospective, single arm, single site investigation, 13 patients were treated. Cohort 1 included patients with existing fistulas meeting the criteria for Ark implantation at planned sites, including depth (4–15 mm), diameter (⩾4 mm), flow (⩾500 mL/min) and a poorly accessible cannulation zone. Cohort 2 included patients who underwent AVF creation and implantation of Arks at time of initial surgery. For both Cohorts, clinical need determined if one or two Arks were implanted. The primary endpoint was effective initial cannulation of the access site after Ark implantation. The secondary endpoint was continued access of the Ark cannulation zone for hemodialysis and evaluation of device or procedure-related adverse events collected for 6 months post-implantation. The exploratory endpoint evaluated the Ark implantation procedure.

Results:

Of 13 patients, 2 were withdrawn prior to initial cannulation through the Ark—1 patient due to an exacerbated baseline condition and the other patient due to loss of follow-up. In the efficacy analysis, 11 of 13 treated patients demonstrated successful primary and secondary outcomes. Of the 11 treated patients who initiated cannulation through the Arks, 100% experienced successful primary and secondary outcomes. None of the patients experienced adverse events related to the Ark and surgeons had the necessary skills to implant Arks.

Conclusion:

The results demonstrated the Ark could be used successfully in End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) patients undergoing hemodialysis three times a week. These results suggest preliminary safety and efficacy of the Ark as a promising cannulation tool for dialysis vascular access and warrant further exploration of long-term safety and effectiveness through a pivotal clinical study involving a larger population and extended follow-up.
Predictors of Enrollment and Adherence in a Randomized Tobacco Cessation Clinical Trial
Authors: Coffee Zhanette , Hsu Chiu-Hsieh , Vanderah Todd W. , Gordon Judith S.
Published: December 2024

Background

New therapeutic cessation approaches are being tested in clinical trials to engage and retain people who smoke. Our team is conducting a pragmatic randomized clinical trial (RCT) to evaluate a new treatment for tobacco dependence, but enrolling participants and ensuring adherence has been more challenging than in previous trials.

Objective

To determine the predictors of enrollment and adherence in the RCT.

Design

A secondary analysis of data from a tobacco cessation RCT.

Methods

Data was collected during a two-group RCT testing the efficacy of an integrative guided imagery vs behavioral treatment, with both conditions involving six weekly, hour-long sessions over 9 weeks.

Results

Of the 1074 randomized participants, 803 (74.8%) enrolled (completed the first session), and 631 (78.6%) of those were adherent (attended all scheduled sessions). Variables associated with enrollment included age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.01; 95% CI, 1.0003-1.02; P = 0.04) and state of residence (West Virginia vs New York (NY), AOR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.46-0.94; P = 0.02), with older participants and those from NY more likely to enroll. Variables associated with adherence included race (Black vs White) (AOR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.05-4.16; P = 0.04), higher education (at least some college vs high school or less) (AOR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.58-3.26; P < 0.0001), marital status (all others vs single/never married) (AOR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.11-2.48; P = 0.01), and state of residence (Arizona vs NY) (AOR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.34-0.78; P = 0.002). Within Arizona, older age increased enrollment, while higher education and marriage improved adherence. Within NY, higher education was associated with both increased enrollment and adherence, while higher number of household smokers, and not reporting substance use were associated with increased adherence.

Conclusion

Enrolling and retaining people who smoke in cessation trials requires novel strategies. Identifying predictors of enrollment and adherence offers valuable insights for overcoming barriers in future tobacco cessation RCTs.
ENIGMA in ACAPULCO: Machine Learning Localization of Cerebellar Anatomy in Epilepsy
Authors: Widdess-Walsh Peter
Published: December 2024

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Gastric ultrasound: Enhancing preoperative risk assessment and patient safety
Authors: Kar Man Chan Luke
Published: December 2024

Perioperative pulmonary aspiration is a critical complication linked to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in high-risk populations such as patients with diabetes, obesity, gastroparesis, or those using Glucagon-Like-Peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). Standard fasting protocols may not be appropriate for these patients, as they have increased propensity of delayed gastric emptying, hence increasing the complex of the preoperative risk assessment. Gastric ultrasound (GUS) provides a non-invasive, reliable method for assessing gastric content and volume, enabling anaesthesia professionals to make informed decisions regarding aspiration risk, airway management, and surgical scheduling. By identifying patients with elevated gastric volumes, GUS has the potential to reduce aspiration-related complications and unnecessary surgical cancellations.

Despite its clear clinical benefits, the adoption of GUS in anaesthetic practice remains limited, primarily due to the technical skill required for accurate quantitative assessments. Qualitative evaluations of gastric contents are simpler for beginners, but precise volume measurements, essential for risk stratification, demand more extensive training. Recent studies demonstrate that with structured training, even novice operators can achieve high diagnostic accuracy. Artificial intelligence (AI) can further enhance GUS utility by automating volume calculations, guiding probe placement, and providing real-time feedback. These capabilities could significantly shorten the learning curve and improve consistency in risk assessment.

Incorporating GUS and AI tools into anaesthesia training can overcome adoption barriers, enabling clinicians to more accurately assess aspiration risk and enhance patient safety in perioperative care.