bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Going Insane: Battered Muslim Women Reclaim a Positive Identity
Authors: Geiger Brenda , Esa Layan
Published: October 2024

This study examines the process of identity negotiation of 15 Muslim women who resisted severe abuse by their husbands and extended family by becoming mentally ill and thereafter, divorcing. Content analysis of the interview narratives shows that these women were poor, married young, and endured years of battering, isolation, and silencing for the sake of family honor and children’s well-being. Entrapped within a web of sociocultural norms legitimizing wife beating, and abusive extended family relationships that annihilate their voice by branding them as maj’nuna/insane, these women explained that they were terrorized helpless victims fearing the stigma of being labeled insane and the resultant harm to their children. With the deterioration of their health, threat of annihilation, and imminent danger to themselves and their children, these women broke through the normative oppressive framework by becoming maj’nuna/mentally ill. Detached from the extended family and no longer caring to endorse a label that discredited what they said or did, these women overtly resisted by escaping to the family of origin and/or mental health clinic to reveal the abuse, divorce, and seek treatment. Severing all family ties, and now residing in public housing, these women felt safe to renegotiate a favorable identity and reclaim the right to live with dignity. Implications/recommendations: (1) The criminalization of battering and prosecution of batterers is not enough to deter when cultural norms sanction battering, (2) additional diagnostic categories are needed to identify the precursors of battering within the strategies of overt and covert resistance battered women adopt in collectivistic cultures such as mental and neurophysiological dysfunctions, and (3) it is necessary to transcend the individualistic model titling battered women within the false dichotomy of victimization or agency as it fails to reflect battered women’s experience in collectivistic cultures and their resistant strategies to abuse in the extended family.
Fatigue life prediction of BGA solder joint of several alloy compositions under an isothermal harmonic vibration
Authors: Rebai Jihen , El Hami Abdelkhalak , Ghenam Sinda , Ghorbel Ahmed , Feki Nabih , Haddar Mohamed
Published: October 2024

To ensure durable performance and optimal function of electronic components, it is crucial to guarantee their reliability, robustness and goodness of fit. The solder joints used in the BGA (Ball Grid Array) component play an intrinsic role in the reliability of the system. The vibration present in BGA triggers fatigue in solder joints, which raises a major reliability problem in various sectors such as aerospace, automotive and military industries. This study handles the response to a harmonic vibration at three specific temperatures (−40°C, 25°C, and 125°C) for four types of solder alloys in BGA Soldering. Within this framework, predicting the fatigue life of BGA solder joints with various alloy compositions under the influence of an isothermal harmonic vibration emerges as a crucial challenge in the design as well as reliability of modern electronic devices. The investigated solder compositions are SAC105, SAC305, SAC405, and InnoLot. To simulate and analyze the behavior of solder joints, we used the Ansys APDL finite element analysis (FEA). At both 125°C and −40°C, the Von Mises values proved to exceed those observed at 25°C. Likewise, an S-N curve for InnoLot and the different SACs, under a harmonic vibration at 25°C, was fitted using the Basquin power law relationship. As far as the current research work is concerned, an initial comparison was enacted between InnoLot and SAC alloys under an isothermal harmonic vibration, aiming to ascertain the most reliable alloy. The fatigue life under a harmonic vibration loading at 25°C was estimated. The results revealed that under a harmonic vibration at 25°C, the InnoLot solder displayed the longest lifespan, while the SAC105 solder exhibited the shortest fatigue life.
The narrative structure of working cognition: Combining the Theory of Narrative Thought and Conviction Narrative Theory
Authors: Beach Lee Roy
Published: October 2024

I have combined two theories of narrative cognition to produce an integrated and more complete theory, called the theory of Narratively Structured Cognition (NSC). The latter is about how incoming information from the internal and external environments is structured by time and causality as the past causing the present, which will cause the future. This structure is narrative in form and is called the working narrative. It is a cognitive mechanism for predicting the future, which is called the expected future. The real future has yet to happen, so it cannot be evaluated for looming threats, but the expected future can be. Detected threats prompt action to delay, diminish, or eliminate them before the future becomes the present and the damage is done. NSC is presented first, followed by a brief comparison of the two earlier theories and how NSC combines them. Then uses for the expanded theory are discussed: The working narrative as the source of the everyday narratives we use for thinking and communication; research on narrative comprehension and use, and similar work; NSC as a foundational backstory for theories about everyday narratives and for other theories that use narrative as a core concept. I close with some very tentative suggestions about using NSC, or parts of it, to provide AI with a conscience.
Young Adult Caregivers and Subjective Well-being in Japan: The Results From the Survey on Satisfaction and Quality of Life
Authors: Noguchi Taiji , Togashi Shintaro
Published: October 2024

Informal caregiving can impair caregivers’ subjective well-being. However, this issue has been overlooked among young adults. We examined the association between informal caregiving and subjective well-being among young adults in Japan. This cross-sectional study included 3496 individuals aged 18 to 29 years who participated in the Survey on Satisfaction and Quality of Life, a nationwide online survey by the Cabinet Office of Japan, between 2019 and 2020. Three aspects of subjective well-being were evaluated: life satisfaction, social relationship satisfaction, and health status satisfaction. Participants were divided into three groups based on their engagement in caregiving: “non-caregiver,” “potential caregiver” (having a family member who needs care but the participants were not engaged in caregiving), and “caregiver.” Consequently, 283 (8.1%) participants were potential caregivers and 53 (1.5%) were caregivers. Multivariable linear regression analysis revealed that compared with non-caregivers, caregivers exhibited significantly lower satisfaction with social relationships and health status, but not life satisfaction. These findings suggest psychosocial disadvantages for young adult caregivers, highlighting the importance of support for them.
Depression Among Resettled Karen Refugees in the United States: An Exploratory Pilot Study
Authors: Tonui Betty C. , Ravi Kristen E. , Mitschke Diane B. , Laney Erin , Costello Emily
Published: October 2024

Due to prolonged ethnic and religious persecution, the Karen have endured numerous traumatic experiences including systematic violence and mistreatment, resulting in long-term psychological sequelae. This study examines the prevalence of depression among Karen refugees from Burma ( N = 37) using a culturally grounded mental health screening tool within a primary health care community clinic in the southern United States. A total of 48.60% met the clinical cutoff for depression. The researchers identified three themes: (a) manifestations of depression, (b) depression linked to post-migration stressors, and (c) importance of support and education about depression. Family service organizations and resettlement agencies can assist Karen refugees by connecting them with social and tangible support, as well as providing education about depression. Future research should include Karen refugees from various parts of the United States to improve generalizability.
Pointe Readiness in Youth Ballet Dancers: A Pilot Study on Dance Instructor Decision Making
Authors: Erdman Ashley , Ulman Sophia , Dyke Julie , Russomano James , Santana Jonathan , McLeod Tamara Valovich , DiCesaro Shelly Fetchen , McCaffrey Kelsie , Chung Jane , Hayden-Hebert Kristin , Butler Lauren
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Transiting to dancing en pointe is an important milestone for young dancers who wish to progress in ballet training. Various criteria exist regarding pointe readiness, including age, range-of-motion, endurance, strength, balance, and technique. However, awareness and use of these criteria by dance instructors is currently unknown. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the awareness and use of pointe readiness criteria by youth ballet instructors. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey study design was used, which included questions regarding dance instruction experience, dance studio characteristics, and criteria used to assess pointe readiness. Ballet instructors were recruited for participation. Data are presented as percentages and frequencies. Results: Thirty-one ballet instructors completed the survey from 15 states (1 international). Years of pointe ballet instruction ranged from 2 to 30+ years, with 35% indicating more than 30 years of experience. Instructors reported students begin pointe at age 11.8 years (range 9-15 years). A majority of instructors require 5 years of ballet experience prior to dancing en pointe (range 2-8 years). Reported pointe readiness criteria included strength (100%), dance technique (94%), age (87%), and years of ballet experience (71%). While all instructors reported evaluating a dancer’s strength, assessments of flexibility and movement quality were not evaluated by 42% and 45% of instructors, respectively. Strength, dance technique, and age were rated as the greatest indicators of a dancer’s readiness to begin pointe. Finally, instructors reported low knowledge of existing pointe readiness criteria. Conclusion: Ballet instructors initiated pointe work at age 12 and required 5 years of ballet experience before beginning to dance en pointe. While strength, dance technique, and age were the top considerations for evaluating readiness, approximately 40% of instructors did not evaluate flexibility or movement quality prior to progressing to pointe, and overall, knowledge of existing criteria was low.
Multicenter Prospective Study in HER2-Positive Early Breast Cancer for Detecting Minimal Residual Disease by Circulating Tumor DNA Analysis With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy: HARMONY Study
Authors: Tokura Momoko , Ando Mark Malalay , Kojima Yuki , Kitadai Rui , Yazaki Shu , Atutubo Cyrielle Marie N , Li Rubi K. , Perez Minda Z. , Gorospe Agnes E , Madrid Manuelito A , Ordinario Mel Valerie C , Imasa Marcelo Severino B , Sudo Kazuki , Shimoi Tatsunori , Suto Akihiko , Kohsaka Shinji , Machida Ryunosuke , Sadachi Ryo , Yoshida Masayuki , Yatabe Yasushi , Hata Tomomi , Nakamura Kenichi , Yonemori Kan , Shiino Sho
Published: October 2024

Background:

Biomarkers to predict the recurrence risk are required to optimize perioperative treatment. Adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with human epidermal growth factor 2-positive (HER2-positive) early breast cancer is decided by pathological responses of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). However, whether pathological responses are appropriate biomarkers is unclear. Currently, there are several studies using minimal residual disease (MRD) as a predictor of prognosis in solid tumors. However, there is no standard method for detecting MRD.

Objectives:

This study aimed at prospectively evaluating the relationship between MRD detection and recurrence in Asian patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer.

Design:

Prospective, observational, single-group, and exploratory. This study will include 60 patients from 2 institutions in Japan and the Philippines. The invasive disease-free survival (IDFS) rates of the MRD-positive and MRD-negative groups are compared in patients with HER2-positive early breast cancer who undergo surgery after receiving NAC.

Methods and analysis:

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels of patients will be evaluated 6 times: before NAC, after NAC, after surgery, and annually after surgery for 3 years. We will analyze the genetic profile of blood and tissue samples using the Todai OncoPanel (TOP) and the methylation level of DNA. The primary endpoint is IDFS. Secondary endpoints include overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Patient enrollment began in June 2022, and new participants are still being recruited.

Ethics:

This study has been approved by the National Cancer Center Hospital Certified Review Board in March 2022 and has been approved by the Research Ethics Board of the participating center.

Discussion:

Our findings will contribute to determining whether MRD detection using TOP is useful for predicting the recurrence of HER2-positive early breast cancer. If this is proven, MRD detected by TOP could be used in the future as a biomarker to assist in the de-/escalation of treatment strategies in the next interventional trial, thereby avoiding overtreatment in patients at low risk, and in the addition of intensive treatment modalities for those in patients at high risk.
“Understanding dementia together”: The design, delivery and evaluation of a collaborative, inter-professional dementia workshop for healthcare students
Authors: O’Sullivan Trish , Moore Niamh , McVeigh Joseph G , Timmons Suzanne , Foley Tony
Published: October 2024

Background

A collaborative, multi-disciplinary team input is crucial for the optimal management of the older adult with complex care needs such as dementia. Interprofessional learning (IPL) at undergraduate level can lead to improved collaborative knowledge and skills. The aim of this study was to develop, deliver and evaluate an IPL dementia workshop for healthcare students across 11 disciplines. A secondary aim was to determine whether there is a clinical application of learned knowledge in students who completed the workshop and subsequently underwent clinical placement.

Methods

The design of the IPL workshop aligned with Kern’s map for the development of a curriculum in medical education. The Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) was used to assess students’ knowledge of dementia pre-and-post workshop, as well as opened-ended questions on role recognition and communication.

Results

A total of 102 students completed the workshop questionnaire, with a follow up of 47 students on clinical placement. There was a statistically significant increase in students’ knowledge and confidence levels in communication with a person with dementia. Students reported positively on the workshop format, the collaborative nature of the workshop, as well as the role of the patient advocate. The follow up of students on clinical placement showed a perceived behavioural change in communication modification.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the benefits of an IPL initiative across multiple disciplines, with perceived behavioural change on clinical placement.
Hand Osteomyelitis: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Dargan Dallan , Wyman Matthew , Bhoora Mahir , Ronan Dominic , Baker Megan , Partridge David , Caddick Jennifer , Giblin Victoria
Published: October 2024

Hand osteomyelitis is a complex condition to diagnose and treat, with an opportunity to improve care through organization of existing evidence. The literature was systematically searched for series of hand osteomyelitis between 1990 and 2022 for evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment, to formulate recommendations. Twenty-one series reported at least 5 cases of hand osteomyelitis in adults, with a total of 666 cases. Surgical debridement is central to treatment and oral antibiotics are sufficient for individuals without diabetes, renal or vascular disease, after debridement and resolution of associated sepsis. A 4- to 6-week duration of antibiotic therapy according to organism sensitivities is recommended, or a 2-week course after amputation. Delayed presentation is common and if over 6 months is associated with high amputation rates. Hand osteomyelitis with renal failure is associated with systemic complications. Reconstruction options include antibiotic-eluting spacers, osteosynthesis or arthrodesis, vascularized bone or adipose, regional soft tissue coverage and silicone implant arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence: IV.
Potential building blocks for porous organic materials
Authors: Plater Michael John , Cowie Maisie A , Harrison William TA
Published: October 2024

2,4-Difluoronitrobenzene has been reacted with a linker diamine (ethylenediamine or propylenediamine) and butylamine, in either order, to give new molecular building blocks for porous supramolecular networks. Two structures were established by X-ray single crystal structure determinations. The propylenediamine structure displays small pores, which may be due to the longer and more flexible linker in the structure.
Anatomy of a route: Script analysis of irregular migration, smuggling and harms on the Central Mediterranean route to Europe
Authors: Bish Alexandre , Borrion Hervé , Cockbain Ella , Toubaline Sonia
Published: October 2024

Since the so-called ‘migrant crisis’ in 2015, there has been intense policy interest around irregular migration along the Central Mediterranean Route to Europe. Despite increased research focus on this route, the details and geographical intricacies of these migration journeys have scarcely been examined. In this study, we investigate the what, where and how of the journeys of 71 people who travelled from Libya across the Mediterranean Sea to Malta. To do so, we break down their journeys into scripts (i.e. sequences of activities) and represent them as a composite script graph. We find that journeys were long – 18 months on average – and circuitous, involving diverse and complex geographical paths. Smuggling, brokerage and working during transit were key aspects of most journeys. Worryingly, two-thirds of participants experienced detention and/or forced labour before reaching Malta. By pinpointing where and how harm occurs, the composite script graph can support policy makers in reducing harm, including by accounting for the possible harm that interventions may cause, directly or as a result of displacement.
Acellular Particulated Costal Allocartilage Improves Cartilage Regeneration in High Tibial Osteotomy: Data From a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chung Kwangho , Jung Min , Jang Ki-Mo , Park Sanghoon , Kim Jaehong , Kim Sung-Hwan
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to compare short-term arthroscopic and clinical outcomes between microfractures with (treatment group) and without (control group) acellular particulated costal allocartilage in patients undergoing concurrent high tibial osteotomy (HTO).

Design

This retrospective cohort study enrolled 19 and 21 patients in the treatment and control groups, respectively, and reviewed them at a minimum 2-year follow-up after HTO. Cartilage regeneration status was evaluated according to the International Cartilage Repair Society–Cartilage Repair Assessment (ICRS-CRA) grading and Koshino’s macroscopic staging systems during medial locked plate removal. Patient-reported measures, including the visual analog scale pain score, Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and International Knee Documentation Committee score, assessed clinical outcomes.

Results

The total points of the ICRS-CRA grading system were significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group (7.7 ± 3.8 vs 4.2 ± 3.0, respectively; P = 0.007). Likewise, the cartilage status according to Koshino’s macroscopic staging system was better in the treatment group ( P = 0.022). Patient-reported functional outcomes significantly improved postoperatively but were equivalent between the study groups at the final follow-up.

Conclusions

Microfractures augmented with acellular particulated costal allocartilage resulted in better repair quality than microfractures alone at a minimum 2-year follow-up after HTO, but functional outcomes improved similarly for both treatment approaches.
Comparison of a single intravenous infusion of alfentanil or sufentanil combined with target-controlled infusion of propofol for daytime hysteroscopy: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Lei Xiaofeng , Zhang Tinghuan , Huang Xuezhu
Published: October 2024

Background:

The administration of either alfentanil or sufentanil as a single injection, combined with target-controlled infusion (TCI) of propofol, represents a frequently employed anesthetic regimen for daytime hysteroscopy.

Objectives:

This study was designed to evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of alfentanil and sufentanil in the context of daytime hysteroscopy.

Design:

A total of 160 patients, scheduled for daytime hysteroscopy, were randomly allocated into two groups: Group A and Group S respectively received alfentanil 10 μg/kg or sufentanil 0.15 μg/kg as a single intravenous injection. Both groups were given propofol with TCI for sedation.

Methods:

Monitoring of vital signs was conducted from pre-anesthesia through to 2 h postoperatively. The primary outcome measured was hypoxemia, defined as SpO2 levels below 92% for a duration of 30 s, which necessitated manual positive pressure ventilation. Secondary outcomes included various perioperative complications, such as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) occurring 2 h after surgery, as well as hemodynamic indicators, NRS scores for pain, and other anesthesia-related data. This comprehensive dataset was meticulously documented and subsequently analyzed for comparative purposes.

Results:

The analyses revealed that Group A had a significantly lower incidence of hypoxemia ( p = 0.002) and PONV ( p = 0.021). Additionally, group A demonstrated overall more stable blood pressure and heart rate, as well as higher SpO2 levels.

Conclusion:

For daytime hysteroscopy, alfentanil at a dose of 10 μg/kg is safer than sufentanil at a dose of 0.15 μg/kg when combined with propofol TCI.

Trial registration:

This study was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (The URL of registration is https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=177784 ; registration number: ChiCTR2200063939). The date of first registration was September 21, 2022.
Epidemiological assessment of diabetes mellitus in children of Ukraine during the last 20 years (2002–2021) of peacetime
Authors: Mityuryayeva-Korniyko I.O. , Volosovets O.P. , Kryvopustov S.P. , Burlaka Ie.A. , Polukhina M.O. , Shevchenko T.A. , Nechayev M.P. , Kovalchuk I.V. , Kryvonos Y.M.
Published: October 2024

Objectives:

Nowadays, there is a global trend towards an increase in the prevalence and incidence of diabetes mellitus, including among children, which is a significant health problem in many countries. The analysis of data on diabetes among children is important for training medical personnel and planning preventive measures. The aim is to determine the trends in the prevalence and incidence of diabetes mellitus, as well as the gender and age structure among the paediatric population of different regions of Ukraine over the last 20 years (2002–2021) of peacetime.

Methods:

The results of statistical evaluation and epidemiological analysis of the data of the Centre for Medical Statistics of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine on the prevalence and incidence of diabetes mellitus among children during 2002–2021 are presented. Statistical processing of the results was carried out using MS Excel (Microsoft Corporation, USA), XLSTAT-Pro (Addinsoft, USA).

Results:

According to the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, as of 2021, 11,193 children aged 0–17 years inclusive with diabetes mellitus were registered, which is 15.0 cases per 10 thousand of the relevant population. Compared to 2002, the prevalence and incidence rates increased by 93% and 80%, respectively; the fastest rates were among children aged 0–6 years, and the lowest among adolescents aged 15–17 years. In 2021, the highest incidence of diabetes among infants over the past 15 years was recorded (0.05 per 1000 of the relevant population).

Conclusions:

In Ukraine, over the past 20 years (2002–2021) of peacetime, there has been an annual gradual increase in the prevalence and incidence of diabetes mellitus among children in all age groups with gender balance, which generally corresponds to the global trend.
Software-driven chronic disease management: Algorithm design and implementation in a community-based blood pressure control pilot
Authors: Deo Rahul C , Smith Rebecca , MacRae Calum A , Price Esha , Sheffield Horace , Patel Rahul
Published: October 2024

Background:

Optimal guideline-directed medical therapy is rarely attained in practice, resulting in inadequate control of diseases such as hypertension, with poorer results in under-resourced communities. Technology, including artificial intelligence-driven decision support and software-driven workflow transformation, can potentially improve disease outcomes at a reduced cost, although it must be integrated with a holistic approach.

Methods:

We describe the design of a software platform that enables rapid iterative remote management of >20 conditions across cardiac-kidney-metabolic disease. The platform distributes work across a care team of providers and care navigators, automates decision-making, ordering, and documentation, supports rapid incorporation of new evidence, and launches pragmatic trials. We describe software used in a 500-person community-based blood pressure control implemented as a single-arm quality improvement program. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients meeting the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set quality measure blood pressure goal (<140/90) at 12 weeks.

Results:

A total of 1609 patients were screened, 945 (59%) were found to have uncontrolled hypertension, and 512 patients consented to join the program. The average age was 61 ± 11 years; 59% were female, and 99% self-identified as Black. Blood pressure distribution was: 10% Stage 1 (SBP 130–139 mmHg or DBP 80–89 mmHg), 69% Stage 2 (SBP 140–179 mmHg or DBP 90–119 mmHg), and 21% Stage 3 (SBP >180 mmHg or DBP >120 mmHg). Two hundred four patients (39%) proceeded to a provider encounter, and 160 of these (78%) completed the program. The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set blood pressure goal was achieved in <12 weeks of enrollment for 141 participants (69% of those enrolled, 88% of those who completed the program).

Conclusion:

Software-driven remote blood pressure is feasible, although strategies to improve patient enrollment will be needed to achieve maximum impact. Future work will be required to compare outcomes to usual care and evaluate concurrent management of multiple cardiac-kidney-metabolic conditions.
Enhancing job satisfaction measurement tool in healthcare settings: Insights from a University Hospital in Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Duc , Anh Pham Quynh , Huyen Chang Pham Thi , Minh Nguyet Ha Thi , Xiem Chu Huyen , Hung Pham Van , Chau Le Bao
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives:

Extensive scrutiny within organizational research has positioned job satisfaction as a pivotal factor contingent upon organizational contexts. Our study aimed to refine job satisfaction measurement tools for diverse healthcare settings using insights from a university hospital in Vietnam, enhancing the validity and applicability of these instruments.

Methods:

The procedure for the contextualization of a job satisfaction measurement tool was established encompassing six key steps: (1) Developing, selecting, or modifying the questionnaire; (2) Assessing face validity; (3) Ensuring content validity; (4) Designing the research for field testing; (5) Assessing the tool reliability and validity; and (6) Assessing discriminant validity between two tools. This procedure served as the foundation for a cross-sectional study involving 216 healthcare staff at a university hospital in Vietnam.

Results:

The modified tool, comprising 35 items (6 fewer than the original 41-item reference tool), was derived through evaluations of face, content, and construct validity, conducted with 216 healthcare staff. The validity of the modified tool was subsequently confirmed through Confirmatory Factor Analysis, demonstrating favorable fit indices for the job satisfaction item, including a Chi-square/degrees of freedom ratio of 3.15, Comparative Fit Index of 0.86, Tucker Lewis Index of 0.85, and Root Mean Squared Error of Approximation of 0.1. Additionally, the modified tool exhibited a high Cronbach’s alpha of 0.97, a good convergence ranged from 0.4 to 0.6 and a good divergence with the maximum shared variance values were lower than the corresponding average variance extracted values. The job satisfaction scores obtained using the modified tool surpassed significantly those of the original reference tool ( p < 0.01), with percentages of 52.7% and 43.1%, respectively.

Conclusion:

This contextualization procedure has been demonstrated to be both feasible, practical and yielded valid and reliable results, thus recommending its adoption in other healthcare settings along with further validation and adaptation, including rural settings.
Giant serous cystadenoma in an adolescent: A case report
Authors: Amara Ayoub , Adem Amine , Salhi Hanane , El Magroud Mohammed , Zaari Najlae , Ammor Abdelouahab , Benhaddou Houssaine
Published: October 2024

Ovarian tumours occur at an incidence rate of 2.6 cases per 100,000 children, and their frequency escalates proportionally with age. These tumours typically have an organic origin and are seldom functional. The frequent presence of pain primarily characterizes the clinical manifestation of ovarian cysts. The complexity inherent in analyzing this pain can complicate diagnosis, necessitating a thorough evaluation that could potentially require resorting to a pelvic ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and determine the optimal management. Additional imaging techniques and tumour marker assays aid in specifying the nature of this mass, where surgery remains the sole therapeutic option. The histopathological analysis further confirms the precise nature of the mass or cyst to establish a prognosis and guide the management strategies and progression follow-up. Our case is for a girl aged 15 years old without notable medical history, presenting at admission with a 6-month history of a gradually enlarging abdominal mass associated with abdominal pain and tumour markers (BHCG was negative). In addition, LDH, CA125, Inhibin, CEA and CA19.9 were negative. Radiologically, the ultrasound revealed a huge cystic abdominopelvic mass occupying the entirety of the abdomen and pelvis with posterior compression of the intestines without visualization of the left ovary; the right ovary appeared normal. MRI confirmed the presence of a voluminous intraperitoneal abdominopelvic cystic formation measuring 31 × 20 × 8 cm. The patient underwent laparoscopic surgery, revealing a large cystic mass with septations filling the abdomen and pelvis and displacing the gastrointestinal tract. After draining 6 L of clear fluid, the entire cyst was removed while preserving some left ovarian tissue, with the right ovary appearing normal. The follow-up is still ongoing, with the last consultation being 8 months post-operative.
Emergence of Candida auris in Vietnam: A case series
Authors: Pham Hong Tham , Truong Thi Ha , Nguyen Su Minh-Tuyet , Huynh Van An , Nguyen Hoang Hai , Tran Minh-Hoang
Published: October 2024

Candida auris (C. auris), a globally emerging pathogen, has posed a significant threat to hospitalized individuals during the COVID-19 in Vietnam. This case series reported (1) common patterns in five patients with non-multidrug-resistant C. auris infections (multiple comorbidities, severe-to-critical illness, use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, or history of surgery/invasive procedures) and (2) high rate of C. auris-associated mortality in this medical setting (four deaths out of five cases). Further studies are needed to (1) identify risk factors for C. auris infections and mortality and (2) investigate the effects of screening and preventive measures for C. auris, especially in low-resource settings.
Exploring Factors Contributing to High Turnover Rate Among Digital Film Technicians: A Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: Ma Xueke , Gan Xiao’er , Jiang Tan
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to clarify the core elements affecting the turnover intention of grassroots employees in the digital film industry and to construct a model of the factors affecting the turnover rate in this industry. Adopting the grounded theory approach, which encompasses coding techniques such as open, axial, and selective coding, this research involved the participation of 21 grassroots practitioners to explore the causal and influencing factors of the turnover intention of grassroots practitioners in the digital film industry. The results show that determined by the unstable nature of the job and fierce market competition, interpersonal interaction is a core element that influences whether practitioners continue with or leave their jobs. The over-reliance on interpersonal skills leads to negative psychological outcomes and difficulties in career advancement for practitioners. The interpersonal interaction-focused influences model reflects the correlation between the willingness of individuals to leave and the market environment and organizational culture.
Is the Inner Imitation–Emotional Empathy–Emotional Commitment Process Induced by Emojis Mainly Women’s Consciousness Process?
Authors: Jeon Hye-Jin
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to specify the group of inner imitation–emotional empathy–emotional commitment, which is the path of emotional commitment induced by emojis. To determine whether this relationship is moderated by gender, inner imitation was set as the independent variable, emotional empathy as the mediating variable, and emotional commitment as the dependent variable. Results showed that the relationship between emotional empathy and emotional commitment and the mediating effect of emotional empathy when inner imitation affects emotional commitment through emotional empathy were stronger in women than in men. This suggests that the inner imitation–emotional empathy–emotional commitment process, which is an emotional commitment path via emojis, is mainly a conscious process for women. Furthermore, in that emotional empathy in inner imitation in this mediating process is regarded as a low-consciousness process based on mirror neurons, the movement of emojis is speculated to play a key role in strengthening this process.
Functions of Ideational Metaphor in English
Authors: Zhou Jiangping
Published: October 2024

Types of ideational metaphor in English considered in this research incorporate nominalization, verbalization, and adjectivization. Previous studies particularly highlighted functions of nominalization, leaving the other types of ideational metaphor unconsidered; in addition, expressions of ideational metaphor are not carefully selected while exploring the functions realized by these expressions. Against this backdrop, functions of ideational metaphor uncovered in previous studies are insufficient of coverage and typicality. Drawing on COCA in this research, a corpus of typical American English, expressions of the three types of ideational metaphor with significant attraction by means of the simple collexeme analysis are employed to analyze the functions that these metaphorical expressions actually realize in their linguistic contexts. The findings demonstrated that expressions of ideational metaphor could realize such interpersonal functions as authoritativeness and objectivity, such ideational functions as conciseness, abstractness, ambiguity, and semantic condensation, and such textual functions as formality and cohesion. Explanations to these realized functions of ideational metaphor are also provided. This research is of great significance in that the documented functions are typical and representative of ideational metaphor in English.
Exploring Climate Leadership Features of Public Officials Through Narratives: Evidence From Turkish Municipalities
Authors: Erbil Aslı Öğüt
Published: October 2024

This article explores the narratives of local public officials involved in leading efforts to develop climate change policies in innovative Turkish municipalities. The objective of the article is to offer insights into the leadership roles of these public officials, aiming to uncover distinct leadership features while crafting climate change policies within Turkish municipalities and to propose distinctive types of leadership they exhibited. To elucidate the dimensions of public officials’ leadership, the research employs a narrative research approach. Accordingly, leadership features identified from the literature are utilized as the analytical framework for the narratives. The results demonstrate that the interviewed public officials exhibited common leadership attributes that impact the shaping of climate change policies. This is particularly valuablein cases where the central government may not be sufficiently ambitious in taking steps forward. Additionally, the research indicates that officials’ leadership styles vary, even though they exhibit common leadership features.
Preselection of Applicants for Small UAV Remote Pilot Training
Authors: Szoke Zoltan , Lipovsky Pavol , Blistanova Monika
Published: October 2024

In this article a new method is proposed for the preselection and objective evaluation of applicants for UAV training based on HMI models and mathematical analysis. With the rising number of UAV users there is a need for their preselection and qualification based on objective evaluation of their performance to assure the safety of air operations. A system consisting of a UAV RC controller, a display, and a software solution for the measurement of potential UAV pilot reaction was created. 59 participants were given the task to move the sticks of the RC controller to the random positions shown on the display as quickly and precisely as possible multiple times in a row. Based on the recorded stick movements, the performance of the participants was evaluated using HMI models and mathematical analysis. Four key aspects were identified for the preselection and continual evaluation of the UAV pilots: Transport delay, Time to 90% regulation, Overshoot, Deviation from the target in the stabilized state. For these parameters, limit values were proposed for the preselection of UAV pilot applicants. The created system with possible expansions can be used for effective UAV applicant preselection. The research supports the aim of better preselection and effective training of UAV pilots.
Changing Teacher Practices and Perceptions and Improving Student Communication Outcomes Through Shared Reading
Authors: Quick Nancy A. , Erickson Karen A.
Published: October 2024

Shared reading is a powerful literacy intervention for the development of early communication and literacy skills. For students with extensive support needs who are beginning communicators, shared reading has the potential to support the development of initiation and expressive symbolic communication skills. This descriptive, multicase, mixed methods study investigated changes in teacher shared reading practices and perspectives, as well as the communication skills of students with extensive support needs associated with completing professional development focused on a responsive and interactive approach to shared reading. The sample included four classroom teachers and 13 students with extensive support needs in one rural U.S. public elementary school. Teachers increased their use of targeted interactive shared reading practices from 50% to 90%. Students increased the number of expressive communication skills they exhibited ( p = .031, r = .60), as well as the highest level of their symbolic communication ( z = 2.16, p = .031, r = .60). Thematic analysis of teacher interviews identified shifts in their perceptions of their role, expectations, and ability to support student communication development during shared reading, which converged with the changes noted from fall to spring during observations of teacher practice and students’ communication skills during shared reading.
The modified Baveno classification for obstructive sleep apnoea: development and evaluation based on the ESADA database
Authors: Matthes Sandhya , Treml Marcel , Grote Ludger , Hedner Jan , Zou Ding , Bonsignore Maria R. , Pépin Jean-Louis , Bailly Sébastien , Ryan Silke , McNicholas Walter T. , Schiza Sofia E. , Verbraecken Johan , Pataka Athanasia , Śliwiński Paweł , Basoglu Özen K. , Lombardi Carolina , Parati Gianfranco , Randerath Winfried J.
Published: October 2024

Background

The “Baveno classification” replaced the apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) with symptoms and comorbidities for treatment indication in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). This study evaluates a modified Baveno classification which adds a validated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk score and acknowledges severe breathing disturbances.

Method

OSA patients from the European Sleep Apnoea Database (ESADA) were retrospectively allocated into CVD risk groups 1–3 based on the SCORE2 risk prediction model and European Society of Cardiology guidelines. AHI ≥30 events·h−1conferred strong treatment indication. When AHI was <30 events·h−1, symptoms and CVD risk dictated allocation to the weak, intermediate or strong treatment indication group. Changes in Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score and office systolic blood pressure (SBP) at follow-up (12–24 months) under positive airway pressure (PAP) were assessed.

Results

8625 patients were analysed (29% female; median (interquartile range) age 56 (49–64) years and body mass index 31.9 (28.4–36.3) kg·m−2). Treatment indication was weak in 501 (6%), intermediate in 2085 (24%) and strong in 6039 (70%). There was a continuous increase in age, SBP, C-reactive protein and glycosylated haemoglobin from weak to strong (p<0.001). PAP prescription increased from 52% to 64% to 93% (weak to strong; p<0.001). The change in ESS score was −2, −4 and −5, respectively (p<0.001). Reductions of ≥3 mmHg median SBP occurred when AHI was ≥30 events·h−1and in symptomatic patients with CVD risk levels >1 when AHI was <30 events·h−1.

Conclusion

This analysis provides supporting evidence for the key role of CVD risk assessment and severe breathing disturbances in the identification of OSA patients most likely to benefit from treatment.
Contrasting the clinical and biological characteristics of young and old COPD patients
Authors: Vila Marc , Agustí Alvar , Vestbo Jørgen , Celli Bartolome , Cosio Borja G. , Silverman Edwin K. , Sibila Oriol , Badía Joan Ramon , Bakke Per , Tal-Singer Ruth , MacNee William , Faner Rosa
Published: October 2024

Background

The ECLIPSE study was a large, international, prospective, controlled, observational study that included COPD patients (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) grades 2–4), as well as smoking and non-smoking participants with normal spirometry, aged 40–75 years, who were followed-up regularly for 3 years. Here we sought to contrast the clinical and biological characteristics of young COPDversuscontrols of similar age and older COPD patients included in ECLIPSE.

Methods

We compared 106 young (<50 years) and 488 old (>70 years) COPD patients, as well as 119 young smokers and 92 nonsmoker controls (<50 years) with normal spirometry.

Results

Young COPD patients: 1) were more symptomatic than young controls, often reported a family history of chronic bronchitis, emphysema and asthma, as well as a personal history of asthma and bronchitis, and suffered from a similar disease burden to older patients; 2) were at higher risk of substantial forced expiratory volume in 1 s decline over time; and 3) had reduced serum levels of CC16 (a lung-derived anti-inflammatory protein that relates to lung damage) and, at the same time, reduced pro-inflammatory markers compared to older COPD patients.

Conclusions

Young COPD patients suffer from significant disease burden, display an altered biomarker and disease progression profile reflected by an accelerated risk of lung function decline highlighting the need for early life diagnosis, prevention approaches and treatment.
Influential factors for medical students’ classroom concentration—evaluation with speech recognition and face recognition technology
Authors: Chai Xiaohan , Yang Jingwen , Liu Yunsong
Published: October 2024

Statement of the problem

The concentration of medical students in the classroom is important in promoting their mastery of knowledge. Multiple teaching characteristics, such as speaking speed, voice volume, and question use, are confirmed to be influential factors.

Purpose

This research aims to analyze how teachers’ linguistic characteristics affect medical students’ classroom concentration based on a speech recognition toolkit and face recognition technology.

Materials and methods

A speech recognition toolkit, WeNet, is used to recognize sentences during lectures in this study. Face recognition technology (FRT) is used to detect students’ concentration in class. The study involved 80 undergraduate students majoring in stomatology. The classroom videos of 5 class hours in the dental anatomy course were collected in October 2022. A quantitative research methodology is used in this study. Pearson correlation, Spearman correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were used to analyze the impact of time and teachers’ linguistic characteristics on students’ concentration.

Results

As a result of regression analysis, the explanatory power of the effect of the linguistic characteristics was 7.09% (F = 83.82, P < 0.001), with time, volume and question being significant influencing factors (P < 0.01). The local polynomial smooth of the scatter between the concentration degree and the use of questions with time appears to fluctuate cyclically and suggests a potential inverse relationship between the use of questions and the concentration degree.

Conclusions

The results of this study support the significant positive influence of volume and questioning technique, the negative influence of time, and the insignificant influence of speaking speed and the interval between sentences on students’ concentration. This study also suggested that teachers may adjust their questioning frequency based on their observation of students’ concentration.
A novel approach to detecting microduplication in split hand/foot malformation type 3 at the single-cell level: SHFM as a case study
Authors: Wang Yaqian , Li Yang , Zeng Lidong , Li Wenbo , Dong Xin , Guo Jia , Meng Xiangrui , Lu Jiacheng , Xu Jiawei
Published: October 2024

Background

Split hand/foot malformation (SHFM) is a congenital limb deficiency characterized by missing or shortened central digits. Several gene loci have been associated with SHFM. Identifying microduplications at the single-cell level is challenging in clinical practice, and traditional detection methods may lead to misdiagnoses in embryos and pregnant women.

Results

In this research, we utilized a low cell count and whole-genome amplification products to employ single nucleotide polymorphism arrays, next-generation sequencing, and third-generation sequencing methods to detect copy number variants of microduplications in a SHFM3 case with limited DNA. Additionally, Karyomapping and combined linkage analysis were conducted to validate the results.

Conclusions

This study establishes a new strategy for identifying microduplications or microdeletions at the single-cell level in clinical preimplantation genetic testing, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of diagnosing microduplication or microdeletion diseases during IVF-PGT and prenatal diagnosis.