bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing Approaches to Mental Health Screening at Prison Entry, Considering Both Concurrent and Predictive Validity in Men and Women
Authors: Dean Kimberlie , Browne Christie , Chemjong Prabin , Korobanova Daria , Yee Natalia , Spencer Sarah-Jane
Published: December 2024

Mental health screening at prison entry is important given the burden of unmet need and the challenge of prioritizing scarce resources, but the evidence to guide approaches to screening is limited. Screening at prison-entry (into prisons or jails receiving people at any stage of the trial or sentencing process) must achieve several aims, from uncovering untreated symptoms to recognizing the need to recommence treatment for established illness, and for a range of mental health conditions. The current exploratory observational study examines different approaches to screening and considers the results of both concurrent (structured diagnostic interview) and predictive (post-screening receipt of prison mental healthcare) methods for validation, in a sample ( n = 291) of men and women entering prison in New South Wales, Australia. A high prevalence of mental health problems, particularly for women was identified across the three screening approaches (i.e., screening for previous psychiatric history, current symptoms, and psychological distress). No single screening approach was superior across validation methods, supporting a broad approach to mental health screening, and differences in validity outcomes were seen between men and women. Prioritizing sensitivity to avoid false-negative cases requires a broad approach to prison-entry mental health screening but a second-stage triage assessment is likely necessary.
Effect of the TAAR1 Partial Agonist Ralmitaront on Presynaptic Dopamine Synthesis Capacity Measured Using [18F]DOPA PET in Naïve and Cocaine-Treated Mice
Authors: Bonsall David R. , Kokkinou Michelle , Halff Els F. , Rutigliano Grazia , Tang Sac-Pham , Veronese Mattia , Irvine Elaine E. , Withers Dominic J. , Wells Lisa A. , Natesan Sridhar , Gerlach Irene , Holiga Štefan , Hoener Marius C. , Howes Oliver D.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Elevated dopamine synthesis capacity is part of the pathophysiology of schizophrenia thought to underlie psychosis. Drugs that reduce this phenomenon could thus be potential treatments for these disorders. In this study, we evaluated the ability of the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) partial agonist ralmitaront to reduce presynaptic dopamine synthesis capacity.

Procedures

Ralmitaront (3 mg/kg, i.p.), a TAAR1 partial agonist, was evaluated using [18F]DOPA PET for its ability to modulate presynaptic dopamine synthesis capacity in naïve mice as well as mice in an induced hyperdopaminergic state following acute cocaine administration (20 mg/kg, i.p.).

Results

Cocaine treatment on its own did not induce elevated dopamine synthesis capacity when compared to the control group. Pretreatment with ralmitaront significantly reduced dopamine synthesis capacity when given either alone (44%) or in combination with the psychostimulant cocaine (50%) when compared to the control group.

Conclusions

The TAAR1 agonist ralmitaront reduces striatal dopamine synthesis capacity, indexed as KiMod, both in naïve animals and when given prior to acute cocaine. This indicates the potential of TAAR1 agonism to address disorders characterized by striatal hyperdopaminergia.
Middle meningeal artery embolization in migraine: From concept to reality
Authors: Mortezaei Ali , Essibayi Muhammed Amir , Osama Mahmoud , Abdollahifard Saeed , Karandish Alireza , Terraciano Anthony , Fortunel Adisson , Altschul David J
Published: December 2024

Migraine is a common neurological disorder that primarily affects young adults. Despite the availability of multiple therapeutic options for patients with intractable migraine, a significant proportion of these patients remain refractory to treatment, highlighting the importance for novel therapies. In this study, we comprehensively assessed the role of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) in the management of intractable migraine. Although the exact pathophysiology of migraine remains a subject of debate, the neurovascular theory of migraine has gained attention recently following multiple studies assessing the role of the MMA in migraine pathophysiology. In addition, the successful utilization of lidocaine both through intravenous injection and directly into the MMA, as well as favorable results observed in the form of headache relief following MMA embolization (MMAE) in patients with chronic subdural hematoma, has further substantiated the neurovascular theory hypothesis. In this study, we evaluated the current evidence, potential trends, role of other injection medications, as well as risks and limitations of MMAE in the management of patients with refractory migraine. Intractable migraine is a complex condition that often requires multimodal management. MMAE has emerged as a promising, novel therapeutic technique that may help reduce pain and minimize the need for additional treatments. However, further prospective and randomized trials are still necessary for further validation.
Modeling and simulation of residual stress in metal cutting process: A review
Authors: Zhou Ruihu
Published: December 2024

Due to the complexity of analyzing residual stress, which involves numerous cutting parameters encompassing both mechanical and thermal stresses, various modeling and simulation methods, including analytical, numerical, and machine learning approaches have been summarized. An analytical model for predicting 2D orthogonal cutting and 3D milling residual stress is presented based on the cutting mechanism as well as the loading and unloading history of the stress field. The advancement in computational methods has prompted a review of finite element methods and mesh-free methods along with their principles, advantages, disadvantages, and application fields. Furthermore, machine learning models are employed to predict and control cutting residual stress based on data-driven approaches. These include support vector regression machines, artificial neural networks, and gradient boosted trees. A significant challenge for future work lies in addressing multi-scale size cutting residual stresses through hybrid methodologies.
‘Steering the ship not rocking the boat’: The implied stewardship and managerial roles of senior leaders in traditional international schools
Authors: Bunnell Tristan , Gardner-McTaggart Alexander Charles
Published: December 2024

The past five decades has seen four dominant models of educational leadership emerge, as the fashion shifted from managerial, towards instructional, then transformational, and the currently dominant distributed approach. At the same time, other models have emerged in literature such as moral, authentic, systems, and contingency leadership. This paper focuses attention on the leadership approach expected by the senior leader (‘Directors’) of well-established autonomous traditional international schools governed by a parental-led Board, where a complexity of tensions and dualities has previously been reported by literature. At the same time, this body of schools stands under-reported upon. Following an analysis of the action verbs found in 10 job adverts, across 10 nations globally, we can identify a strong pattern of anticipated role, characterised by the ‘old fashioned’ managerial, and instructional approaches, with the Director being expected to steer the school on a steady, continuous course rather than instigate any major change or innovation. A role of responsible stewardship emerges, with the Director being expended to maintain, continue, and oversee events as previously done by others. The lack of scope for distributed or contingency leadership seems surprising given the changing social and political environment that the schools occupy.
Evaluating the impact of a coach educational intervention on relative energy deficiency in sport: A pilot study
Authors: Hamer Jennifer , Desbrow Ben , Irwin Chris , Shaw Greg , Disher Ali , Alexiou Helen
Published: December 2024

Athletes undertaking large training volumes are often exposed to periods of low energy availability (LEA) and consequently are at risk of developing Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs). Swim coaches play a key role in moderating this risk in developing swimmers. This study aimed to evaluate swimming coaches’ perceptions of LEA/REDs education intervention developed using the Public Health Nutrition Bicycle Framework and underpinned by the professional tools of problem analysis, system mapping and training development. Data was collected in two phases: 1) an immediate post-workshop evaluation survey (process evaluation), and 2) a delayed (6 weeks) post workshop informal roundtable (impact/outcome evaluation). The process evaluation was conducted inductively using three questions (a mix of categorical and open-ended questions). The impact/outcome evaluation was deductive, with the Capability, Opportunity and Motivation Model of Behaviour Change (COM-B) used to evaluate coaches’ likelihood of implementing new learnings after attending the workshop. Twenty-one coaches attended the workshop, and fourteen completed the post workshop survey. The process evaluation findings indicated that coaches found numerous aspects of the workshop valuable, including the case study approach, resources for consolidation of learning and discussions around the challenges they may experience when managing athletes at risk. The impact/outcome evaluation identified eleven facilitatory and four inhibitory themes based on the COM-B model. Coaches reported an enhanced understanding and knowledge of REDs but lacked the physical and psychological capability to apply new knowledge and/or desired behaviours in practice. The integration of applied frameworks and research and development specialists in coach education may be important when addressing sensitive and complex topics in sport to support the effective dissemination of knowledge into applied contexts. This requires effective partnerships between researchers, national sporting organisations and experts in design and development to strengthen the integrity and applicability of future coach education initiatives.
The planetary future: Some reflections
Authors: Singh Karan
Published: December 2024

The planetary future is now at stake in view of excessive exploitation of the Earth's finite resources. Since survival of the humankind and planet earth itself is in jeopardy, all right-thinking scholars and decision-makers need to think aloud and ahead to find solutions for our common future. We have inherited wisdom from our ancestors and it is time to walk-the-talk. For centuries, the Indian civilization has survived all onslaughts and provided ideas for the entire humankind and the world as one: vasudhaiva kutumbakam as well as respecting nature as: Bhawani Vasundhra. This paper draws upon the author's more than seven decades of ‘tryst with history’ and provides some reflections for look ahead into the planetary future with courage and fortitude.
Design, Synthesis and Fungicidal Activity of N-(5-Phenyl-1,3,4-Thiadiazol-2-yl)-N-((1-Phenyl-1H-1,2,3-Triazol-4-yl) Methyl) Benzamide Derivatives
Authors: Kong Ziyi , Zhang Xinyu , Bian Ming , Fu Danni
Published: December 2024

Objective: Plant pathogens are serious hazards to agricultural production, but existing drugs have problems such as increased resistance of pathogenic bacteria and environmental pollution, and there is a need to find high-efficiency, low-toxicity fungicides with novel chemical structures. Methods: 5-phenyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine was used as the starting material, and 20 new thiadiazole-linked compounds were designed and synthesized. Their in vitro inhibitory activities against plant pathogenic fungi were tested using a mycelium growth inhibition assay, and the relationship between the antifungal activity of the target compounds and their molecular structures was preliminarily discussed. Results: Bioassay results revealed that most of the title compounds exhibited excellent in vitro fungicidal activity, in which compound D16 showed the highest activity against Rhizoctonia solani (EC50 = 0.0028 μmol·L−1), D12 against Botrytis cinerea (EC50 = 0.0024 μmol·L−1), and D5 against Stemphylium lycopersici and Curvularia lunata (EC50 = 0.0105 μmol·L−1, 0.005 μmol·L−1). The structure activity relationship (SAR) was also discussed and the results are of great significance for the structural optimization and development of more effective thiadiazole antibacterial compounds. Conclusion: The results of this study are important for structural optimization and development of more potent thiadiazole antimicrobial compounds.
Minimal Detectable Change Scores and Factors Associated With Dynamic Exertion Test (EXiT) Performance After Sport-Related Concussion
Authors: Gomes Dean , Sinnott Aaron , Zynda Aaron J. , Kochick Victoria L. , Ostop Sarah , Trbovich Alicia M. , Feder Abigail , Collins Michael W. , Kontos Anthony P.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Factors associated with performance outside of a normative range on dynamic exertion test (EXiT) after sport-related concussion (SRC) remain unknown. This study examined the role of demographic and medical history factors on performance using minimal detectable change (MDC) cutoff scores in athletes being cleared to return to sport (RTS) from SRC.

Hypothesis:

Older age, being female, and body mass index (BMI) ≥50th percentile would be associated with worse EXiT performance and with increased likelihood of falling outside the normative MDC score range.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Demographic factors, physiological metrics, performance metrics, symptoms, and ratings of perceived exertion were collected from 55 participants (age, 16.5 ± 2.3 years, 31.5% female) initially evaluated within 14 days of SRC who completed EXiT at medical clearance for RTS. Chi-square analyses, logistic and ordinal regressions, and 1-way analyses of variance examined factors associated with EXiT performance.

Results:

Most participants fell within the MDC score range on aerobic (71.2-100%), dynamic (75.8-100%), and change-of-direction (36.5-98.0%) tasks, and symptoms (96.2-100%). Older age was associated with better performance on Box Drill Shuffle ( P < 0.01) and lower heart rate (HR) outcomes after Ball Toss ( P = 0.04), Box Drill Shuffle ( P < 0.01), Box Drill Carioca ( P = 0.04), and Pro Agility ( P < 0.01). Greater BMI was associated with higher HR%max after Ball Toss ( P < 0.01) and worse posttreadmill aerobic performance ( P < 0.01). Motion sickness history was associated with longer Zig Zag completion time ( P = 0.036).

Conclusion:

Most athletes presenting for clearance from concussion performed within MDC score ranges on EXiT metrics.

Clinical Relevance:

EXiT is accurate and effective in assessing response to dynamic exertion after SRC, and MDC scores can inform RTS decisions. Clinicians should consider age, BMI, and history of motion sickness when assessing EXiT performance.
Solidarity Imbalances After Racism and Sexism: Black Americans Are Expected to Express High Solidarity but Anticipate Lower Solidarity From Racial/Ethnic Outgroups
Authors: Drake R. Grace , Wilkins Clara L. , Lai Calvin K.
Published: December 2024

Because claiming discrimination is not always taken seriously, marginalized groups may consider cues about whom to trust in providing support and solidarity. Black, Hispanic, and Asian participants (Study 1; N = 931) and women (Study 2; N = 1,207) from the United States imagined someone made a discriminatory comment to them and rated the likelihood of being supported by an individual who varied in identity and past solidarity-related behavior. Participants anticipated more support from their own racial/ethnic group for racism and from women for sexism, and then anticipated support by the following groups: Black > Hispanic > Asian ≥ White and women > men. Past behavior boosted anticipated support, especially from outgroups. Strikingly, we found solidarity imbalances; groups consistently anticipated that Black people would support them, yet Black people anticipated lower support from racial/ethnic outgroups.
The impact of mindfulness meditation on pro-inflammatory biomarkers in patients with end-stage renal disease: A randomized trial
Authors: Alhawatmeh Hossam , Najadat Ishraq , Hweidi Issa , Abuhammad Sawsan
Published: December 2024

Background and aim:

Mindfulness meditation has been inadequately used in patients with end-stage renal disease although it has been effective in reducing pro-inflammatory biomarkers in patients with chronic illnesses. Thus, this study examined mindfulness meditation effect on pro-inflammatory biomarkers and C-reactive protein in patients with end-stage renal disease.

Materials and methods:

Repeated measures, randomized, control experimental design was used. A convenience sampling technique was used to select the sample from a hospital located in northern Jordan. The participants were randomly distributed into experimental ( n = 31) and control ( n = 31) groups. During hemodialysis sessions, the group of experiment participants practiced 30 min of the Attentional behavioral cognitive theory version of mindfulness meditation; 3 times a week for 8 weeks). The inflammatory biomarkers including C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukine-6 were measured by collecting peripheral blood through venipuncture. These biomarkers were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) protocol after 5 weeks of the intervention, and at its end (8 weeks). An Excel sheet was used to collect data for participants.

Results:

Compared to the control condition, mindfulness meditation led to statistically significant reductions in C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor over time but a nonsignificant effect on interleukine-6.

Conclusion:

Study’s results support the evidence-based practice recommendation of adding mindfulness meditation as a complementary treatment to the nurse’s care plans for patients with end-stage renal disease.

Trial registration:

Clinical trial.gov; ID: NCT06064708; Date: 09/26/2023.
The power and promise of transparency: Perspectives from citizens’ juries of pandemic health data sharing
Authors: Laverty Louise , Jones Elisa , Peek Niels , Oswald Malcolm , Bozentko Kyle , Atwood Sarah , van der Veer Sabine
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic response in the UK, as in other countries, drew heavily on health and social care data, making its utility extremely visible as necessary for timely government decision-making and planning. The urgency created by the crisis, however, meant that additional data collection and sharing under emergency legislation was implemented with minimal public consultation. To understand the public perception of these new data measures and initiatives, three citizens’ juries took place in the spring of 2021. This article reports on qualitative observations of the small group deliberations from these juries. The analysis shows that jurors frequently drew on normative discourses of transparency and trust in discussions, and the different roles they were assumed to fulfil. Transparency was expected to offer greater visibility into the organisations involved in health and social care data sharing, but this was made difficult by the increased complexity of the health data economy. Transparency into the political justifications for additional health data collection was important for jurors. The utilitarian narratives used by the government were considered problematic, restricting opportunities for individuals to express concerns and leading to cynicism. The findings will be situated with the critical literature on visibility practices to highlight the need to unpick what the promise of transparency and trust offers to the public and how it links to power and control. Lastly, it will examine what the deliberations around transparency mean for wider policy on health and social care data-sharing.
Validation of artificial intelligence-based quantitative coronary angiography
Authors: Kim Do-Hyun , Kim Sun-Hwa , Chu Hyun-Wook , Kang Si-Hyuck , Yoon Chang-Hwan , Youn Tae-Jin , Chae In-Ho
Published: December 2024

Background

Coronary angiography is fundamental for the diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease. Manual quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) is accurate and reproducible; however, it is time-consuming and labor-intensive. However, recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled automated and rapid analysis of medical images, addressing the need for real-time quantitative coronary analysis.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of AI-based QCA (AI-QCA) compared with that via manual QCA and clinician acceptance.

Methods

This retrospective, single-center study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 was a pilot study comparing AI-QCA with manual QCA and visual estimation. It involved 15 patients who underwent coronary angiography at Seoul National University Bundang Hospital between September 2011 and July 2021. Phase 2 included a larger cohort of 762 patients, with 1002 coronary angiograms analyzed between May 2020 and April 2021.

Results

In phase 1, AI-QCA and manual QCA consistency varied among the observers, with AI-QCA showing superior consistency compared with visual estimation. However, a strong correlation between AI-QCA and manual-QCA was found in phase 2. AI-QCA accurately identified and quantitatively analyzed multiple lesions in the major vessels, providing results comparable with those of manual QCA.

Conclusions

AI-QCA demonstrated high concordance with manual QCA, offering real-time analysis and reduced workload. Therefore, AI-QCA has the potential to be a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating coronary artery disease, necessitating further studies for clinical validation.
Neuro-Insights in Marketing Research: A PRISMA-Based Analysis of EEG Studies on Consumer Behavior
Authors: Wang Junhai , Alsharif Ahmed H. , Abd Aziz Norzalita , Khraiwish Ahmad , Salleh Nor Zafir Md
Published: December 2024

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric and systematic analysis of electroencephalography (EEG) studies in consumer behavior within marketing research while exploring its academic and practical implications. Following the PRISMA protocol, a rigorous examination of 53 articles from the Web of Science database (WoS) was conducted. The analysis highlights that EEG has predominantly investigated consumer behavior across various marketing stimuli, including products, advertising, pricing, and branding. Notably, advertising emerged as the primary focus, encompassing 49% of the analyzed articles (26). The USA emerged as the leading country in neuromarketing, with a notable contribution from the University of California System. Frontiers in Neuroscience emerged as the most prolific journal. EEG in marketing research enables scholars to bypass verbal biases and gain profound insights into consumers’ responses, significantly contributing to over 90% of their reactions toward marketing stimuli. This study provides valuable insights into the diverse applications of EEG in marketing research, with potential avenues for further investigation in areas such as consumer personality and social consumer neuroscience, which remain relatively underexplored.
The Mediating Role of Perceived Organizational Support in the Relationship Between Transformational Leadership and Knowledge Sharing Behavior of University Teachers in Universities
Authors: Chen Libin , Chang Yuan-Cheng , Tian Qing
Published: December 2024

In the era of knowledge economy, knowledge sharing has become a crucial social behavior that underpins the existence and development of a knowledge society. Encouraging university teachers to actively share their knowledge is essential for fostering strong teacher teams and enhancing school development. Transformational leadership plays a statistically significant role in influencing knowledge sharing behavior among university teachers. When university teachers perceive affirmation, care, and support from their institutions, they are more likely to provide feedback and contribute to the school’s success. This study investigates the mechanism by which transformational leadership influences university teachers’ knowledge sharing behavior through perceived organizational support as a mediating variable. Based on a theoretical model, this research employed convenience sampling to survey 570 in-service university teachers from six undergraduate universities in Anhui, China. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOSS software. Empirical findings from China demonstrate that transformational leadership in universities positively impacts university teachers’ knowledge sharing behavior significantly. Moreover, perceived organizational support mediates the relationship between transformational leadership in universities and university teachers’ knowledge sharing behavior.
Beyond Mono-Method Symptom Assessment: Multimethod Extension of the Trilevel Model of Anxiety and Depression
Authors: Zinbarg Richard E. , Kramer Amanda M. , Kelley Nicholas J. , Williams Alexander L. , Schmidt Madison , Chat Iris Ka-Yi , Young Katherine S. , Kleijnen Bisley J. , Nusslock Robin , Craske Michelle G.
Published: December 2024

The wide array of symptoms of and high comorbidity rates between unipolar depressive and anxiety-related disorders have raised questions about the relations among their symptoms. Factor analysis examines these relations, yet factor-analytic symptom-measurement models have relied on a single method of measurement and do not always replicate. We conceptually replicate and extend the trilevel model of anxiety and depression symptoms to encompass interviewer-rated symptoms. In the trilevel model, symptom-specific items load on three levels of factors: a narrow (or disorder-specific) factor, an intermediate-breadth factor, and a general-distress factor. The trilevel model fit well in this sample and fit better than comparison models that eliminated one of the three levels. Extension analysis successfully integrated interviewer-rating variables into the trilevel model—particularly for the broad and narrow levels. These results provide some support for the trilevel model and the use of interviewer ratings of symptoms. Research and treatment implications are discussed.
Lateral Fusion is a Unique Feature in Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yongjun Tong , Chudi Fu , Qibin Zhang , Bao Huang , Changjiang Ou , Xuyang Zhang , Junhui Liu , Shunwu Fan , Fengdong Zhao
Published: December 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective

Limited clinical literature addresses potential differences in fusion features between Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF). We observed that in OLIF, there are many cases with the appearance of extra-vertebral bone bridges (EVB), a phenomenon distinct from traditional TLIF fusion. This study aims to compare fusion rates, cage subsidence, and fusion features among OLIF stand-alone (OLIF-SA), OLIF with posterior pedicle screw fixation (OLIF-PS), and TLIF.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 198 patients (311 levels) undergoing OLIF-SA, OLIF-PS, or TLIF from July 2017 to June 2021. We assessed patient-reported outcomes, cage subsidence, fusion rate, and fusion features on CT scans.

Results

The study included 64 OLIF-SA patients (102 levels), 60 OLIF-PS patients (99 levels), and 74 TLIF patients (110 levels). Cage settling rates were 33.3% (OLIF-SA), 17.2% (OLIF-PS), and 32.8% (TLIF), with significant differences between OLIF-PS and TLIF ( P < 0.05). Cage subsidence rates showed no significant difference: 11.8% (OLIF-SA), 9.1% (OLIF-PS), and 12.7% (TLIF) ( P > 0.05). Fusion rates were 100% (OLIF-SA), 97.0% (OLIF-PS), and 96.4% (TLIF) ( P = 0.167). Lateral fusion rates significantly differed: 49.0% (OLIF-SA), 30.3% (OLIF-PS), and 10.9% (TLIF) ( P < 0.001). Preoperative osteophytes strongly promote lateral fusion ( P < 0.001). VAS and ODI scores improved significantly post-surgery ( P < 0.01).

Conclusions

OLIF-SA, OLIF-PS, and TLIF surgeries show satisfactory results with comparable fusion rates. Notably, distinctive differences exist in fusion features between OLIF and TLIF surgeries, with lateral fusion more prevalent in OLIF, particularly in OLIF-SA surgeries.
The Sequence and Reconstructive Modality of Breast Cancer Treatments Affects Wait Times to Adjunctive Therapies in Patients Undergoing Mastectomy with Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Cohen Danielle , Verma Sarika , Raman Karanvir S. , Morton Ninomiya Maya , Bovill Esta S. , Doherty Christopher , Macadam Sheina A. , Van Laeken Nancy , Isaac Kathryn V.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Breast cancer care requires both oncologists and plastic surgeons. Coordinating these specialists and combining extirpative and reconstructive procedures before adjunctive therapies can cause delays in care. For patients with less advanced disease, surgery is performed before adjunctive therapies, requiring early specialist coordination and the possibility of surgical complications. We compare these patients to those with more advanced disease requiring adjunctive therapies before surgery. Methods: A retrospective chart review identified 337 post-mastectomy + immediate breast reconstruction (IBR) patients. Patients were divided into surgery first (SF) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NC) first groups with reconstructive subgroups. Wait times between care pathway milestones were compiled and compared to national standards. Results: SF experienced longer wait times from consultation to treatment initiation (47 ± 51.5 vs 22 ± 22, P<.001) and from first to second treatment modality (62 ± 35 vs 39 ± 17, P<.001). Furthermore, only 29% of SF met the standard of receiving treatment within 4 weeks from consultation compared to 63% of NC ( P<.001). Within subgroups, SF alloplastic reconstructions had shorter wait times compared to SF autologous reconstructions. For SF, only 31% of alloplastic and 24% of autologous reconstruction initiated treatment within 4 weeks of consultation. Conclusion: In this cohort of Canadian breast cancer patients, those receiving surgery first experienced prolonged wait times to treatment, particularly with autologous reconstruction. Patients should be informed of the potential impact on adjunctive therapies when considering reconstructive modality.
Return to Soccer After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: An Outcome or a Decision?
Authors: Hållén Isabelle , Kvist Joanna , Forssblad Magnus , Sandon Alexander
Published: December 2024

Background:

The return-to-sports rate is often used as an outcome measure after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction (ACLR). Although most soccer players want to return to sports after their ACL injury, up to 40% do not believe they will return to soccer after their ACL injury.

Purpose:

To investigate whether self-reported presurgical beliefs regarding return to soccer correspond to registered official match participation after ACLR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Included were soccer players with a primary unilateral ACL injury who were ≥15 years at the time of ACLR and who had completed a presurgical question about their future sports participation beliefs. ACLR surgical data were extracted from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry, and game participation data were extracted from the Swedish Football Association's administrative data system.

Results:

A total of 959 soccer players (617 [64%] male and 342 [36%] female) were included. The follow-up time after ACLR ranged from 18 months to 5.5 years. Of 720 soccer players (75%) who believed that they would return to play (RTP), 462 (64%) players actually did. Of the players who believed that they would not RTP, 181 (76%) did not. Presurgical beliefs predicted RTP (odds ratio [OR], 5.59; P < .001). Younger age at the time of ACLR favored RTP, where 61% of the players aged 15-20 years had RTP (OR, 3.85; P < .001). At the top competitive level, 84% of the players RTP compared to 14% at the recreational level. Players active at higher levels were more likely to believe that they would RTP, and they also actually did so (OR, 33.06; P < .001). Overall, 67% of players followed their presurgical intention to return to soccer.

Conclusion:

The findings indicated that presurgical beliefs, age, and level of play helped to predict the actual RTP of soccer players after ACLR.
Nurse's Clinical Competence and Its Associated Factors Among Working in Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tura Meseret Robi , Mulu Dinaol , Kadir Ajib , Getahun Ababo , Megersa Yohanis
Published: December 2024

Background

Clinical competence is a critical element in providing high-quality nursing care. A higher level of clinical competence positively influences patient health outcomes as well as nurses’ job performance and satisfaction. Nonetheless, there is limited data on nurses’ clinical competence in Ethiopia.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the level of clinical competency among nurses working in selected public hospitals.

Method

Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted from March 1 to 30, 2022. Two hundred five randomly selected nurses from three selected hospitals in the West Shoa Zone namely Ambo University Riferral Hospital, Ambo General Hospital, and Guder Primary Hospital participated in the study via a structured self-administered questionnaire. The collected data were checked for completeness and then entered Epi-data v.4.2.2 and analyzed by Stata software v.14.2. Independent t-test and analysis of variance were used to identify factors associated with nurses’ clinical competence. The level of statistical significance was declared at a p-value < .05.

Results

The overall clinical competence of participants was 2.501 ( SD = 0.36), indicating a moderate level of clinical competence. Participants had higher competence scores on the professional development dimension and lower competence scores on the leadership dimension. The null hypothesis was rejected. Age, work experience, professional satisfaction, level of satisfaction, level of hospital, current position, shifting status, retrieval of newly published information, previous training, and frequency of training were the identified factors associated with nurses’ clinical competence.

Conclusion

Nearly five in 10 participants in the study setting had inadequate clinical competence. Professional satisfaction, level of satisfaction, previous training, and frequency of training were factors related to nurses’ clinical competence. It is recommended that responsible stakeholders like the Minister of Health and the Ethiopian Nursing Association should work to improve nurses’ clinical competence by focusing on the identified factors. Also, health policymakers should set strategies to assess nurses’ clinical competence frequently to ensure quality nursing care.
Are all neuroscience degrees the same? A comparison of undergraduate neuroscience degrees across the United Kingdom
Authors: Logan Isabel M. , Mosley Charlotte , Malcomson Thomas , Yhnell Emma
Published: December 2024

Considering the broad scope covered by the field of neuroscience, this study compares neuroscience undergraduate degree programmes across the United Kingdom, with a focus on the distribution of core and optional neuroscience-specific modules. Data from 13 universities were analysed; this revealed significant variation in the proportion of NS module credits acquired by graduation, ranging from 28% to 100% across institutions. The findings highlight particularly low core NS content in Year 1, potentially affecting informed choice of subsequent modules. The observed flexibility in module selection throughout a neuroscience undergraduate degree is a promising opportunity for students to explore their interdisciplinary interests. However, in response to the high variability in NS core and total credits demonstrated by this research, this study calls for further discussion on establishing an accreditation framework to ensure consistency in neuroscience undergraduate degrees across the United Kingdom.
Impact of Virtual Clinics on Streamlining NHS Outpatient Waiting Lists and Carbon Emissions
Authors: Bhavanasi Bhaskar Amarnath , Kulkarni Shrikant
Published: December 2024

Background:

The National Health Service (NHS) outpatient waiting list is growing, affecting specialties like foot and ankle. Delays are due to increasing demand, limited resources, and administrative inefficiencies. Virtual clinics are being explored to reduce physical clinic burdens and provide timely care. This study investigates the effectiveness of virtual clinics in reducing prolonged waiting times in the foot and ankle specialty. Emissions from personal vehicles are a primary driver of climate change, which is a little recognized benefit of virtual clinics.

Methods:

We analyzed outcomes from a virtual elective foot and ankle clinic, overseen by a specialist consultant, for new elective referrals over 4 months. Data for 175 patients were collected from Lorenzo, our electronic health records system. We also assessed the success rate of virtual consultations in terms of accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans. Measured distance to the hospital based was on patients’ residential address.

Results:

The virtual clinic effectively managed patients. Of the 175 patients, 48.6% completed treatment, and were discharged, and 53.7% were managed without face-to-face consultations. In addition, 66.3% did not need in-person visits; this includes patients treated and discharged and who were referred for investigations. In this clinic, avoiding 1 visit to the hospital by 116 patients saved travel of 1040 miles.

Conclusion:

The widespread adoption of virtual clinics can provide a convenient and cost-effective health care solution for patients and also potentially help reduce carbon emissions contributing to control global warming.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Introduction: Naxi studies, Naxiology and making the global case for a discipline
Authors: Poupard Duncan , Zhang Chunfeng
Published: December 2024

This introductory article to the volume deals with the historical development of an international Naxi Studies, and offers a review of the current situation of the discipline. Naxiology (the composition, provenance, and translation of Naxi manuscripts) is presented as a sub-discipline of Naxi Studies, and some recent landmark publications are introduced, alongside a discussion of the long-standing issue of Romanising the Naxi language. The interdisciplinary focus of this volume, dongba culture, is defended as a major component of Naxi studies around which all the individual contributions revolve.
Local institutional strategies and responses to climate change risks in the Indian Sundarbans: A political economic analysis
Authors: Chakraborty Amitrajit , Sen Amrita , Biswas Debarchana
Published: December 2024

In this article, we use a political economic analysis in arguing that climate change risks and vulnerabilities are often produced and sustained through inappropriate, loosely designed and socially contested institutional mechanisms. Using ethnography, we contribute to the existing social science scholarship on climate vulnerability and risk by focusing on a political economic analysis of how risks are framed and responded at local institutional levels in the Indian Sundarbans. Our paper offers place-based nuances of climate politics to show how local institutions are characterised by power relations, economic incentives and political influences while facilitating and deploying climate risk management strategies. Empirical findings from our study highlight that neoliberal approaches to climate risk management facilitated by local institutions reveal predominant market mechanisms, patron–clientele relations and technologically engineered solutions to create local climate economies. From our findings, we conclude that political economy of climate change can explain why and how adaptation policies become ineffective in everyday experiences of precarious living.
Digital knowledge translation tools for sexual and reproductive health information to adolescents: an evidence gap-map
Authors: Meherali Salima , Hussain Amber , Rahim Komal Abdul , Idrees Sobia , Bhaumik Soumyadeep , Kennedy Megan , Lassi Zohra S.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Digital knowledge translation (KT) interventions play a crucial role in advancing adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH). Despite the extensive literature on their effectiveness, there’s a lack of synthesized evidence on the efficacy of digital KT tools for adolescent ASRH globally.

Objectives:

This review aimed to systematically identify and map existing empirical evidence on digital KT tools targeting ASRH outcomes and identify research gaps.

Design:

The review employed an evidence gap-map (EGM) approach following 2020 PRISMA reporting guidelines.

Data sources and methods:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including Medline, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane. Covidence software was used for data management. EPPI-Mapper software was used to synthesize findings and develop a graphical EGM.

Results:

The EGM comprises 68 studies: 59 experimental and 9 systematic reviews, predominantly from African (19 studies) and American regions (22 studies), with limited research from the Eastern Mediterranean and South East Asian regions. It examines digital KT tools’ influence on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes, identifying research gaps. Websites are extensively studied for their impact on adolescent behavior, knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy, yet research on their effects on ASRH and health services access is limited. Similarly, mobile apps and short message service (SMS)/text messages impact various aspects of SRH outcomes, but research on their effects on health services utilization is insufficient. Interventions like digital pamphlets and gaming lack exploration in health service access. OTT media and social media need further investigation. Mass media, including radio, television, and podcasts, are largely unexplored in adolescent SRH outcomes. Topics such as menstrual hygiene, abortion, and sexual and intimate partner violence also lack research.

Conclusion:

The review underscores the dominance of certain KT tool interventions like SMS and websites. Despite advancements, research gaps persist in exploring diverse digital platforms on underrepresented outcomes globally. Future research should expand exploration across digital platforms and broaden the scope of outcome measures.

Trial registration:

The protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022373970).
The need for high-resolution paleoclimate research
Authors: Büntgen Ulf , Esper Jan
Published: December 2024

Comparing recent warming against past temperature changes is crucial for understanding the importance of greenhouse gas emissions for the global climate system. Although tree ring-based temperature and hydroclimate reconstructions form the backbone of high-resolution paleoclimatology, the data used, methods applied, and concepts proposed are far from perfect. Here, we open dialogue on challenges of dendroclimatology and scientific collaboration. We emphasise that temperature signals in tree-ring chronologies are restricted to extra-tropical growing seasons, and that far too little such data exist for the Southern Hemisphere and the Common Era. We notice that the preservation of both, high- and low-frequency information is prone to uncertainties, that investigations of growth-climate relations are hindered by short and spatially inconsistent meteorological measurements, and that geopolitical tension increasingly constrains data accessibility. Finally, we highlight the need for paleoclimate research and funding, with a focus on annually resolved and absolutely dated timeseries for the Holocene.
Deficiency of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin elicits a hemophilia-like bleeding and clotting disorder in mice
Authors: Xue Min , Wang Shaoying , Li Changjiang , Wang Yuewei , Liu Ming , Huang Xiaoshan , Wang Gan , Yin Qikai , Xiao Dandan , Yang Shuo , Yan Musan , Niu Liyuan , Awais Muhammad , Shen Chuanbin , Wang Jianxun , Lai Ren , Ni Heyu , Tang Xiaopeng
Published: December 2024

Coagulation is related to inflammation, but the key pathway, especially innate immune system and coagulation regulation, is not well understood and need to be further explored. Here, we demonstrated that neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), an innate immune inflammatory mediator, is upregulated in patients with thrombosis. Furthermore, it contributes to the initiation and amplification of coagulation, hemostasis, and thrombosis. This occurs by enhancing tissue factor expression on the cell surface, potentiating various clotting factors such as thrombin, kallikrein, factor XIa (FXIa), and FVIIa, promoting thrombin-induced platelet aggregation, and inhibiting antithrombin. NGAL knockout led to strikingly prolonged clot reaction time and kinetic time in thromboelastography analysis, along with reduced thrombus generation angle and lower thrombus maximum amplitude, which were in line with remarkably prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time and prothrombin time. In several mouse hemostasis and thrombosis models, NGAL overexpression or IV administration promoted coagulation and hemostasis and aggravated thrombosis, whereas NGAL knockout or treatment with anti-NGAL monoclonal antibody significantly prolonged bleeding time and alleviated thrombus formation. Notably, NGAL knockout prolonged mouse tail bleeding time or artery occlusion time to over 40 or 60 minutes, respectively, resembling uncontrollable bleeding and clotting disorder seen in hemophilic mice. Furthermore, anti-NGAL monoclonal antibody treatment markedly reduced the formation of blood clots in inflammation-induced thrombosis models. Collectively, these findings unveil a previously unidentified role of NGAL in the processes of coagulation, hemostasis, and thrombosis, as well as the cross talk between innate immunity, inflammation, and coagulation. Thus, modulating NGAL levels could potentially help balance thrombotic and hemorrhagic risks.