bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of blood immune cell profile and their correlation with disease progression in patients infected with HIV-1
Authors: Guo Xiao-Yan , Qu Meng-Meng , Wang Xi , Wang Ze-Rui , Song Jin-Wen , Yang Bao-Peng , Guo Yun-Tian , Zhang Yang , Zhang Chao , Fan Xing , Xu Wen , Xu Ruonan , Zhang Ji-Yuan , Chen Si-Yuan , Jiao Yan-Mei , Sun Li-Jun , Wang Fu-Sheng
Published: December 2023

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can reduce viral load in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); however, some HIV-infected individuals still cannot achieve optimal immune recovery even after ART. Hence, we described the profile of peripheral immune cells and explored the association with disease progression in patients infected with HIV-1.

Methods

Mass cytometry analysis was used to characterize the circulating immune cells of 20 treatment-naïve (TNs), 20 immunological non-responders (INRs), 20 immunological responders (IRs), and 10 healthy controls (HCs). Correlation analysis was conducted between cell subpopulation percentages and indicators including HIV-1 cell-associated (CA)-RNA, DNA, CD4+ T cell count, and CD4/CD8 ratio.

Results

Global activation, immunosenescence, and exhaustion phenotypes were observed in myeloid cells and T cells from individuals with HIV-1 infection. We also found that specific subsets or clusters of myeloid, CD4+ T, and CD8+ T cells were significantly lost or increased in TN individuals, which could be partially restored after receiving ART. The percentages of several subpopulations correlated with HIV-1 CA-RNA, DNA, CD4+ T cell count, and CD4/CD8 ratio, suggesting that changes in immune cell composition were associated with therapeutic efficacy.

Conclusion

These data provide a complete profile of immune cell subpopulations or clusters that are associated with disease progression during chronic HIV-1 infection, which will improve understanding regarding the mechanism of incomplete immune recovery in INRs.
Designing, implementing, and evaluating a mobile app-based cultural care training program to improve the cultural capacity and humility of nursing students
Authors: Farsangi Sara Noori , Khodabandeh Shahraki Sedigheh , Cruz Jonas Preposi , Farokhzadian Jamileh
Published: December 2023

Background

Given the growing cultural diversity among healthcare clients, it is crucial for nursing education to have a clear mission: to effectively train future nurses by incorporating cultural care curricula. The goal is to equip them with the necessary cultural capacity and humility. This study focused on designing, developing, and evaluating a mobile app-based cultural care training program, with the aim of enhancing the cultural capacity and humility of nursing students.

Methods

This experimental study utilized the five steps of the ADDIE instructional model (analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation) to design a mobile app-based cultural care training program. The first three steps involved designing and developing the program, drawing upon Purnell's model for cultural competence and Foronda's rainbow model of cultural humility. In the fourth step, the cultural care training program was implemented in 16 modules among 80 internship nursing students. These students were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control groups, with 40 students in each group. Finally, in the fifth step, the effectiveness of the mobile app-based program was evaluated by administering the Cultural Capacity Scale, and the Foronda Cultural Humility Scale before and one month after the cultural care training. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS22, employing techniques such as paired t-test, chi-square test, and independent samples t-test.

Results

A total of 76 students completed the study, with 39 students in the intervention group and 37 students in the control group. Prior to the mobile app-based cultural care training program, there were no significant differences in cultural capacity and humility scores between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, following the completion of the program, the intervention group exhibited higher scores in cultural capacity and humility compared to the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the mobile app-based cultural care training program had a positive impact on the cultural capacity and humility of undergraduate nursing students. These results indicate the importance of nurse educators designing comprehensive training programs that incorporate innovative approaches to enhance cultural capacity and humility among nursing students at all academic levels.
The effect of using desktop VR to practice preoperative handovers with the ISBAR approach: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Andreasen Eva Mari , Berg Helen , Steinsbekk Aslak , Høigaard Rune , Haraldstad Kristin
Published: December 2023

Aim

The aim was to investigate whether second-year undergraduate nursing students practicing the Identification-Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation (ISBAR) communication approach in a desktop virtual reality (VR) application had a non-inferior learning outcome compared with the traditional paper-based method when sorting patient information correctly based on the ISBAR structure.

Methods

A non-inferior parallel group assessor blinded randomized controlled trial, conducted in simulation sessions as part of preparation for clinical placements in March and April 2022. After a 20-minute introductory session, the participants were randomized to self-practice the ISBAR approach for 45 minutes in groups of three in either an interactive desktop VR application (intervention) or traditional paper-based (TP) simulation. The primary outcome concerned the proportion of nursing students who sorted all 11 statements of patient information in the correct ISBAR order within a time limit of 5 min. The predefined, one-sided, non-inferiority limit was 13 percentage points in favor of traditional paper-based simulation.

Results

Of 210 eligible students, 175 (83%) participated and were allocated randomly to the VR (N = 87) or TP (N = 88) group. Practicing in the desktop VR application (36% of everything correct) was non-inferior to the traditional paper-based method (22% everything correct), with a difference of 14.2 percentage points (95% CI 0.7 to 27.1) in favor of VR. The VR group repeated the simulation 0.6 times more (95% CI 0.5 to 0.7). Twenty percent more (95% CI 6.9 to 31.6) of the students in the VR group reported liked how they practiced. All the other outcomes including the System Usability Scale indicated non-inferiority or were in favor of VR.

Conclusions

Self-practicing with the ISBAR approach in desktop VR was non-inferior to the traditional paper-based method and gave a superior learning outcome.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN62680352 registered 30/05/2023.
Particle filter-based parameter estimation algorithm for prognostic risk assessment of progression in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Shang Shi , Yuan Junyi , Pan Changqing , Wang Sufen , Tu Xuemin , Cen Xingxing , Mi Linhui , Hou Xumin
Published: December 2023

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a malignant tumor that threatens human life and health. The development of a new NSCLC risk assessment model based on electronic medical records has great potential for reducing the risk of cancer recurrence. In this process, machine learning is a powerful method for automatically extracting risk factors and indicating impact weights for NSCLC deaths. However, when the number of samples reaches a certain value, it is difficult for machine learning to improve the prediction accuracy, and it is also challenging to use the characteristic data of subsequent patients effectively. Therefore, this study aimed to build a postoperative survival risk assessment model for patients with NSCLC that updates the model parameters and improves model accuracy based on new patient data. The model perspective was a combination of particle filtering and parameter estimation. To demonstrate the feasibility and further evaluate the performance of our approach, we performed an empirical analysis experiment. The study showed that our method achieved an overall accuracy of 92% and a recall of 71% for deceased patients. Compared with traditional machine learning models, the accuracy of the model estimated by particle filter parameters has been improved by 2%, and the recall rate for dead patients has been improved by 11%. Additionally, this study outcome shows that this method can better utilize subsequent patients’ characteristic data, be more relevant to different patients, and help achieve precision medicine.
Mental health outcomes of hospital staff during the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran
Authors: Salehi Sahar , Jamali Maryam , Shafiei Neyestanak Mahdi , Amjaz Milad Safaei , Baigi Vali , Yekaninejad Mir Saeed
Published: December 2023

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic, which had recorded 769 million cases and resulted in 6.95 million deaths by August 2023, has put pressure on healthcare systems. Frontline medical professionals face stress, potentially leading to health challenges. This research aimed to examine the mental health of staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted in several hospitals in Tehran, Kerman, and Golpayegan between 2021 and 2022. The study encompassed a population of 1,231 nurses and physicians. Data collection was done using the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). We applied the K-means clustering algorithm to unveil hidden patterns within the data and extract valuable insights from participants' responses to the GHQ-28. This method was chosen because our dataset lacked explicit labels, making grouping individuals with similar characteristics necessary. The primary aim was to delineate how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the mental health of hospital staff and identify which factors played a more significant role in this process.

Results

We have observed that Cluster two exhibits the highest scores in response to the GHQ-28 questions, indicating a more significant degree of mental distress. Within this cluster, 83.0% of individuals identify as female, 71.0% hold bachelor's degrees and 42.8% are nurses who have experienced the most substantial impact. Among these individuals, 90.4% did not have a history of smoking. Additionally, 59.7% are married, suggesting that these mental health issues may also affect their families.

Conclusion

Given that the most critical subscale is related to anxiety/insomnia within the second cluster, it is necessary to implement management plans aimed at appropriately redistributing night shifts to improve employee health.
‘People that suffer or have been through it know the answers’: stakeholders’ perspectives on improving healthcare systems for end-of-life care in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Landers Amanda , Pitama Suzanne G. , Palmer Suetonia C. , Beckert Lutz
Published: December 2023

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive and disabling lung condition with a high mortality. Our research has shown that health care for end-of-life COPD is poorly integrated. The aim of this study was to involve people with end-of-life COPD, their support people and health professionals in the design of healthcare services to help improve the delivery of care for advanced COPD, including informing system-level quality improvement.

Design

We conducted a focus group study involving stakeholders of healthcare services: people with end-of life COPD, support people, bereaved support people, and community- and hospital-based health care professionals.

Methods

We conducted qualitative analysis using deductive structural coding, and then inductive descriptive and pattern coding. Analyses were triangulated by investigators. The research positioned people with end-of-life COPD, their support people and health professionals as experts in healthcare services. Critical theory and Actor-Network theory informed the analysis.

Results

Seven focus groups involving 74 participants reported their experiences of end-of-life care for COPD. Five themes related to healthcare systems responses to improving care quality were identified: governance, system integration, resource design and development, standardisation of processes, and communication.

Conclusion

Stakeholders provided multiple healthcare system-level responses to end-of-life care in COPD that could inform healthcare service design and clinical quality improvement.
Costs of major depression covered / not covered in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Cressman Sonya , Ghanbarian Shahzad , Edwards Louisa , Peterson Sandra , Bunka Mary , Hoens Alison M. , Riches Linda , Austin Jehannine , Vijh Rohit , McGrail Kimberlyn , Bryan Stirling
Published: December 2023

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the world’s leading causes of disability. Our purpose was to characterize the total costs of MDD and evaluate the degree to which the British Columbia provincial health system meets its objective to protect people from the financial impact of illness.

Methods

We performed a population-based cohort study of adults newly diagnosed with MDD between 2015 and 2020 and followed their health system costs over two years. The expenditure proportion of MDD-related, patient paid costs relative to non-subsistence income was estimated, incidences of financial hardship were identified and the slope index of inequality (SII) between the highest and lowest income groups compared across regions.

Results

There were 250,855 individuals diagnosed with MDD in British Columbia over the observation period. Costs to the health system totalled >$1.5 billion (2020 CDN), averaging $138/week for the first 12 weeks following a new diagnosis and $65/week to week 52 and $55/week for weeks 53–104 unless MDD was refractory to treatment ($125/week between week 12–52 and $101/week over weeks 53–104). The proportion of MDD-attributable costs not covered by the health system was 2-15x greater than costs covered by the health system, exceeding $700/week for patients with severe MDD or MDD that was refractory to treatment. Population members in lower-income groups and urban homeowners had disadvantages in the distribution of financial protection received by the health system (SII reached − 8.47 and 15.25, respectively); however, financial hardship and inequities were mitigated province-wide if MDD went into remission (SII − 0.07 to 0.6).

Conclusions

MDD-attributable costs to health systems and patients are highest in the first 12 weeks after a new diagnosis. During this time, lower income groups and homeowners in urban areas run the risk of financial hardship.
Streamlining robotic-assisted abdominoperineal resection
Authors: Yamada Kazunosuke , Imaizumi Jun , Kato Ryuji , Takada Takahiro , Ojima Hitoshi
Published: December 2023

Background

Robot-assisted surgery has proven to be a safe and feasible approach for the management of rectal cancer, including abdominoperineal resection (APR). However, it often incurs longer operative times and higher costs. This study aimed to overcome these limitations by adopting a synchronous approach utilizing an optimized team composition.

Methods

Data on patients who underwent robot-assisted APR at our facility between June 2022 and June 2023 were analyzed. The key points of the optimized approach included the following: At the start of the surgery, the surgeon performed an anococcygeal ligament resection from the perineal side while the bedside assistants set up the ports. Then, through console manipulation, the presacral fascia, elevated by previously placed gauze, was easily and safely incised, providing access to the perineal region.

Results

A total of nine patients were included in this study. The median operation time was 231 min, and the intraoperative blood loss was 170 ml. The operation time was reduced to 167.5 min, and the blood loss was 80.5 ml in cases without a trainee. Surgical site infections, classified as Clavien–Dindo grade II complications, were observed in two cases, but no obvious urinary or erectile dysfunction was observed.

Conclusion

The study results indicate that the challenges associated with APR can be efficiently addressed without requiring additional personnel by streamlining team composition and the synchronous approach. This optimization strategy minimizes the need for a larger surgical team, while maximizing the utilization of surgical time and resources.
Clinical significance of dynamical network indices of surface electromyography for reticular neuromuscular control assessment
Authors: Li Jinping , Kang Xianglian , Li Ke , Xu Ying , Wang Zhengfei , Zhang Xinzhi , Guo Qingjia , Ji Runing , Hou Ying
Published: December 2023

Background

There is currently no objective and accurate clinical assessment of reticular neuromuscular control in healthy subjects or patients with upper motor neuron injury. As a result, clinical dysfunctions of neuromuscular control could just be semi-quantified, efficacies and mechanisms of various therapies for neuromuscular control improving are difficult to verify.

Methods

Fourteen healthy participants were required to maintain standing balance in the kinetostatics model of Gusu Constraint Standing Training (GCST). A backward and upward constraint force was applied to their trunk at 0°, 20° and 25°, respectively. The multiplex recurrence network (MRN) was applied to analyze the surface electromyography signals of 16 muscles of bilateral lower limbs during the tests. Different levels of MRN network indices were utilized to assess reticular neuromuscular control.

Results

Compared with the 0° test, the MRN indices related to muscle coordination of bilateral lower limbs, of unilateral lower limb and of inter limbs showed significant increase when participants stood in 20° and 25° tests (P < 0.05). The indices related to muscle contribution of gluteal, anterior thigh and calf muscles significantly increased when participants stood in 20° and 25° tests (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study applied the dynamical network indices of MRN to analyze the changes of neuromuscular control of lower limbs of healthy participants in the kinetostatics model of GCST. Results showed that the overall coordination of lower limb muscles would be significantly enhanced during performing GCST, partly by the enhancement of neuromuscular control of single lower limb, and partly by the enhancement of joint control across lower limbs. In particular, the muscles in buttocks, anterior thighs and calves played a more important role in the overall coordination, and their involvement was significantly increased. The MRN could provide details of control at the bilateral lower limbs, unilateral lower limb, inter limbs, and single muscle levels, and has the potential to be a new tool for assessing the reticular neuromuscular control.

Trial registration ChiCTR2100055090
REtinal Detachment Outcomes Study (REDOS): study protocol for a factorial, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hébert Mélanie , Bourgault Serge , Caissie Mathieu , Tourville Éric , Dirani Ali
Published: December 2023

Background

Few large randomized controlled trials provide strong evidence to guide surgical repair of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair. The purpose of this factorial, single-blind, randomized controlled trial is to analyze and compare the surgical outcomes, functional visual outcomes, complications, and quality of life associated with RRD repair using (A) pars plana vitrectomy only (PPV) or PPV with scleral buckle (PPV-SB) and (B) sulfur hexafluoride gas (SF6) or perfluoropropane gas (C3F8) tamponade.

Methods

Eligible patients with moderately complex RRD will be randomized 1:1 to PPV or PPV-SB and 1:1 to SF6 or C3F8 gas tamponade. Approximately 560 patients will be recruited to be able to detect a difference of around 10% in SSAS rate between the groups. Patients will be followed using multimodal imaging and quality of life questionnaires after the surgical repair until 1 year postoperative. The primary outcome will be a single-surgery anatomic success (SSAS), defined as the absence of reoperation for recurrent RRD in the operating room. Secondary outcomes will be pinhole visual acuity (PHVA) at 8–10 weeks and 6 months, final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), final retina status (i.e., attached or detached), time to onset of RRD recurrence, severity and number of complications, and questionnaire results.

Discussion

This will be the first 2 × 2 factorial RCT examining repair techniques in primary RRD. It will also be the first RCT to compare gas tamponade between the two most common agents. Notably, it will be adequately powered to detect a clinically significant effect size. The use of multimodal imaging will also be a novel aspect of this study, allowing us to compare head-to-head the impact of adding an SB to the retina’s recovery after RRD repair and of differing gas tamponades. Until now, the treatment of RRD has been largely guided by pragmatic retrospective cohort studies. There is a lack of strong evidence guiding therapeutic decisions and this trial will address (1) whether supplemental SB is justified and (2) whether longer duration gas tamponade with C3F8 is necessary.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05863312. Registered on 18 May 2023.
Effects of opioid-free anaesthesia on postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (OFA-PONV trial): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yan Xiang , Liang Chen , Jiang Jia , Ji Ying , Wu Anshi , Wei Changwei
Published: December 2023

Background

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication after general anaesthesia and is associated with morbidity and prolonged length of stay. Growing evidence suggest that opioid-free general anaesthesia (OFA) may reduce PONV in various surgical settings. We aim to evaluate the efficacy of OFA on the incidence of PONV compared with opioid-based anaesthesia among adults undergoing thoracoscopic surgery.

Methods

This is a prospective, single-centre, randomised controlled trial comparing OFA and opioid-based anaesthesia for thoracoscopic surgery. A total of 168 adults will be randomised with a 1:1 ratio to receive either opioid-free anaesthesia or opioid-based anaesthesia. The primary outcome will be the incidence of PONV within 24 h after operation. The secondary outcomes will include the severity of PONV, quality of recovery, pain at rest, 6-min walking test, and health-related quality of life after operation.

Discussion

The benefit-risk of OFA for patients after operation is contradictory in previous studies, so further study is required. This trial will focus on the effect of OFA on the incidence of PONV in patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery. This trial adopts uniformed PONV and perioperative pain management, standardised randomised and blind, clear-cut inclusion and exclusion criteria, and standardised scales to assess the severity of PONV after surgery, the quality of postoperative recovery, and the health status at 6 months. The findings of this study will help to provide references to promote early recovery of patients after lung surgery.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05411159. Registered on 9 June 2022.
The role of Dodola Community Conservation Area for large mammal conservation, Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Geremew , Girma Zerihun
Published: December 2023

The role of community conservation areas for large mammals is rarely evaluated. We investigated the species richness and frequency of sightings of large mammals in the Dodola Community Conservation Area. The study area was stratified into three habitat types, and 49 lines transect was laid (27 Dry evergreen Afromontane forests, 20 Sub-afro-alpine habitats, and 2 plantation forests) based on the topography, land use, and vegetation cover of the study area. A total of 24 species of large mammals were identified and recorded in the study area. Though the community conservation area is home to diverse species of mammals, including some endemic and endangered ones such as mountain nyala and Bale Monkey, human encroachment, agriculture, and overgrazing are prominent in the area, putting huge pressure on flora and fauna. Therefore, we recommend the participatory approach be strengthened to ensure sustainable coexistence between people and wildlife.
Metastatic papillary thyroid carcinoma in pleural effusion: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Abutalib Mohammed Ali , Shams Anwar , Tamur Shadi , Khalifa Eman A. , Alnefaie Ghaliah Obaid , Hawsawi Yousef M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Papillary thyroid carcinoma accounts for the most common type of thyroid cancer of well-differentiated type. Papillary thyroid carcinoma is featured by biologically low-grade and less aggressive tumors with a survival rate of 10 years in most of the diagnosed cases. Papillary thyroid carcinoma can be presented with the involvement of cervical lymph nodes in about 50% of the patients, yet distant spread is very uncommon.

Case presentation

Herein, we discuss a Saudi male patient in his early 50s with a history of papillary thyroid carcinoma who presented to the emergency department complaining of shortness of breath and a radiological finding of hydrothorax. Cytologic examination together with immune-histochemical staining and molecular studies of pleural effusion aspiration concluded the definitive diagnosis of metastatic papillary thyroid carcinoma in the pleural space.

Conclusions

Papillary thyroid carcinoma seldom causes metastatic niches in the pleural space; this is a rare clinical presentation, nevertheless, a differential diagnosis of thyroid metastasis needs to be excluded. A definitive diagnosis of metastatic papillary thyroid carcinoma can be made using clinical presentation, cytologic examination, immunohistochemical investigation, and molecular testing. The most common mutation found in papillary thyroid carcinoma cases is the V600E mutation found in the BRAF gene, yet these patients have a relatively low probability of cancer recurrence. Patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma who have the BRAF mutation frequently experience metastases and relapses of the disease after the cancer has progressed aggressively. To help with therapy planning and the introduction of BRAF inhibitors, genetic testing for BRAF mutation may therefore prove to be a useful tool, especially in cases of aggressive subtypes of TC.
Vidofludimus inhibits porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection by targeting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase
Authors: Yang Yuanqi , Gao Yanni , Zhang Lujie , Liu Xing , Sun Yangyang , Bai Juan , Jiang Ping
Published: December 2023

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) infection has caused huge economic losses in global swine industry over the last 37 years. PRRSV commercial vaccines are not effective against all epidemic PRRSV strains. In this study we performed a high-throughput screening (HTS) of an FDA-approved drug library, which contained 2339 compounds, and found vidofludimus (Vi) could significantly inhibits PRRSV replication in Marc-145 cells and primary porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs). Compounds target prediction, molecular docking analysis, and target protein interference assay showed that Vi interacts with dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), a rate-limiting enzyme in the de novo pyrimidine synthesis pathway. Furthermore, PRRSV infection was restored in the presence of excess uridine and cytidine which promote pyrimidine salvage, or excess orotate which is the product of DHODH in the de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis pathway, thus confirming that the antiviral effect of Vi against PRRSV relies on the inhibition of DHODH. In addition, Vi also has antiviral activity against Seneca virus A (SVA), encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), and pseudorabies virus (PRV) in vitro. These findings should be helpful for developing a novel prophylactic and therapeutic strategy against PRRSV and other swine viral infections.
Social acceptance of geothermal technology on a global view: a systematic review
Authors: Renoth Robin , Buchner Elmar , Schmieder Martin , Keim Maximilian , Plechaty Manfred , Drews Michael
Published: December 2023

Background

The role of geothermal technology in the context of global efforts toward carbon-free and clean energy production is becoming increasingly important. Social acceptance is a decisive factor in the successful implementation of geothermal projects.

Main text

This systematic review summarizes the major aspects and evaluates the crucial outcomes of recent research on community acceptance as a dimension of social acceptance of geothermal technology since 2011, on a global scale. From the literature, we identified and grouped researched acceptance factors into five main acceptance categories, namely ‘project organization and process’, ‘environment’, ‘municipality’, ‘technology’, and ‘governance’. Each category comprises a number of specific acceptance factors addressed by different survey methods (e.g., interviews, questionnaires, content analyses) in the relevant publications. The acceptance factor categories ‘technology’ and ‘governance’ are remarkably underrepresented, whereas the acceptance factors combined in the categories ‘project organization’ and ‘municipality’ are frequently mentioned in the literature. Acceptance factors combined within the category ‘environment’, ‘trust in key actors’, and ‘information about the project’ are expectedly the most dominant ones in the papers studied. Interestingly, acceptance categories and number of mentions of acceptance factors are comparable in all survey methods applied in the various studies. Besides the acceptance factors combined in the categories ‘environment’ and ‘project organization and process’, ‘knowledge about geothermal technology’ (an acceptance factor from the category ‘municipality’) represents the predominant acceptance factor of geothermal technology.

Conclusions

Deeper knowledge, in particular about the technical aspects of geothermal energy generation, might enable a more comprehensive and holistic view on geothermal technology. Furthermore, the integration of all relevant groups of stakeholders in the process of implementation of geothermal projects strongly influences their social acceptance. Following the results of our systematic literature review, we propose these aspects should be addressed in more detail in future research on the community acceptance of geothermal technology and energy production.
To hear or not to hear: selective tidal stream transport can interfere with the detectability of migrating silver eels in a Tidal River
Authors: Merk Benedikt , Höhne Leander , Freese Marko , Marohn Lasse , Hanel Reinhold , Pohlmann Jan-Dag
Published: December 2023

Acoustic telemetry provides valuable insights into behavioural patterns of aquatic animals such as downstream migrating European eels (Anguilla anguilla), so called silver eels. The behaviour of silver eels during the migration is known to be influenced by environmental factors, yet so is the performance of acoustic telemetry networks. This study quantifies the impact of these environmental factors on both, migration behaviour and receiver performance to determine possible limiting conditions for detecting tagged eels in tidal areas. A dominance analysis of the selected models describing migration speed, activity and receiver performance was conducted following 234 silver eels that were tagged with acoustic transmitters and observed by a receiver network in the Ems River during two subsequent migration seasons. The results suggest a passive locomotion of silver eels during their downstream migration by taking advantage of selective tidal stream transport (STST). It is further shown that water temperature, salinity, turbidity, precipitation, and especially current velocity were major parameters influencing migration activity and speed. At the same time, analyses of the detection probability of tagged eels under varying environmental conditions indicated a decreased receiver performance during increased current velocities, meaning that high migration activity and -speed coincides with reduced detection probability. Consequently, there is a risk that particularly during phases of increased activity, migration activity may be underestimated due to reduced acoustic telemetry performance. To avoid bias in telemetry studies, it is, therefore, crucial to conduct range tests and adjust the receiver placement in areas and conditions of high current velocities.
Cultural adaptation of an integrated eating disorders prevention and healthy weight management program
Authors: Simpson Courtney C. , Boutté Rachel L. , Burnette C. Blair , Weinstock Madison , Goel Neha , Mazzeo Suzanne E.
Published: December 2023

Background

Both eating disorder (ED) prevention and weight management interventions often focus on the thin ideal. Yet, many Black and Latina women do not view thinness as their body ideal. This study used focus groups to investigate the influence of race, ethnicity, and culture on appearance ideals and inform the cultural adaptation and integration of two established programs addressing EDs and weight management: the Body Project, and Healthy Weight Interventions.

Methods

White (n = 10), Black (n = 14), and Latina (n = 6) women participated in racially and ethnically homogenous focus groups.

Results

Thematic analysis identified several themes, including: (1) diverse beauty standards across groups, (2) lack of acknowledgement of racialized beauty standards in prevention and cultural appropriation, (3) culturally-specific impacts of standards, (4) harm of appearance-related comments, (5) limitations of available resources, (6) stigma/minimization of mental health, (7) barriers to inclusive programming, and (8) facilitators of inclusive programming.

Conclusions

Results suggested that current programs’ emphasis on thinness limit their relevance for women of color, and perpetuate the misconception that EDs primarily affect White women. Findings highlight the need for culturally responsive prevention.
Uncertainty-driven generation of neutrosophic random variates from the Weibull distribution
Authors: Aslam Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Objective

This paper aims to introduce an algorithm designed for generating random variates in situations characterized by uncertainty.

Method

The paper outlines the development of two distinct algorithms for producing both minimum and maximum neutrosophic data based on the Weibull distribution.

Results

Through comprehensive simulations, the efficacy of these algorithms has been thoroughly assessed. The paper includes tables presenting neutrosophic random data and an in-depth analysis of how uncertainty impacts these values.

Conclusion

The study's findings demonstrate a noteworthy correlation between the degree of uncertainty and the neutrosophic minimum and maximum data. As uncertainty intensifies, these values exhibit a tendency to decrease.
The effect of inspiratory rise time on mechanical power calculations in pressure control ventilation: dynamic approach
Authors: Acicbe Özlem , Özgür Canan Yazıcı , Rahimi Payam , Canan Emral , Aşar Sinan , Çukurova Zafer
Published: December 2023

Background

Mechanical power may serve as a valuable parameter for predicting ventilation-induced injury in mechanically ventilated patients. Over time, several equations have been developed to calculate power in both volume control ventilation (VCV) and pressure control ventilation (PCV). Among these equations, the linear model mechanical power equation (MPLM) closely approximates the reference method when applied in PCV. The dynamic mechanical power equation (MPdyn) computes power by utilizing the ventilatory work of breathing parameter (WOBv), which is automatically measured by the mechanical ventilator. In our study, conducted in patients with Covid-19 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (C-ARDS), we calculated mechanical power using both the MPLM and MPdyn equations, employing different inspiratory rise times (Tslope) at intervals of 5%, ranging from 5 to 20% and compared the obtained results.

Results

In our analysis, we used univariate linear regression at both I:E ratios of 1:2 and 1:1, considering all Tslope values. These analyses revealed that the MPdyn and MPLM equations exhibited strong correlations, with R2 values exceeding 0.96. Furthermore, our Bland–Altman analysis, which compared the power values derived from the MPdyn and MPLM equations for patient averages and all measurements, revealed a mean difference of −0.42 ± 0.41 J/min (equivalent to 2.6% ± 2.3%, p < 0.0001) and −0.39 ± 0.57 J/min (equivalent to 3.6% ± 3.5%, p < 0.0001), respectively. While there was a statistically significant difference between the equations in both absolute value and relative proportion, this difference was not considered clinically relevant. Additionally, we observed that each 5% increase in Tslope time corresponded to a decrease in mechanical power values by approximately 1 J/min.

Conclusions

The differences between mechanical power values calculated using the MPdyn and MPLM equations at various Tslope durations were determined to lack clinical significance. Consequently, for practical and continuous mechanical power estimation in Pressure-Controlled Ventilation (PCV) mode, the MPdyn equation presents itself as a viable option. It is important to note that as Tslope times increased, the calculated mechanical power exhibited a clinically relevant decrease.
Allogeneic versus autogenous shell technique augmentation procedures: a prospective-observational clinical trial comparing surgical time and complication rates
Authors: Tunkel Jochen , Hoffmann Frederik , Schmelcher Yannik , Kloss-Brandstätter Anita , Kämmerer Peer W.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Autogenous and allogeneic blocks for shell augmentation of the jaw have shown comparable results. This observational clinical study aimed to compare both materials for shell augmentation concerning surgery time and intra- and postoperative complications.

Material and methods

Bone augmentation with the shell technique using autogenous or allogenous bone was performed in 117 patients with segmental jaw atrophy. The primary study parameter was the surgical time, comparing both materials. Subsequently, intra- and postoperative complications were recorded.

Results

Allogeneic (n = 60), autogenous (n = 52), or both materials (n = 5) were used. The use of allogeneic material led to a significantly shorter operation time (p < 0.001). A more experienced surgeon needed significantly less time than a less experienced surgeon (p < 0.001). An increasing number of bone shells (p < 0.001), an additional sinus floor elevation, and intraoperative complications also significantly increased the operation time (p = 0.001). Combining allogeneic and autogenous shells (p = 0.02) and simultaneous sinus floor elevation (p = 0.043) significantly impacted intraoperative complications. No correlations were found between the included variables for postoperative complications (all p > 0.05). In total, 229 implants were inserted after a healing time of 4–6 months, with a survival of 99.6% after a mean follow-up duration of 9 months.

Conclusions

Compared to the autogenous technique, allogeneic shell augmentation has a shorter surgical time and a similar rate of intra- and postoperative complications as autogenous bone. Together with its promising clinical results, this technique can be recommended.

Graphical Abstract
Exploratory assessment of right ventricular structure and function during prolonged endurance cycling exercise
Authors: Lord Rachel N. , Adams Zoe H. , George Keith , Somauroo John , Jones Helen , Oxborough David
Published: December 2023

Background

A reduction in right ventricular (RV) function during recovery from prolonged endurance exercise has been documented alongside RV dilatation. A relative elevation in pulmonary artery pressure and therefore RV afterload during exercise has been implicated in this post-exercise dysfunction but has not yet been demonstrated. The current study aimed to assess RV structure and function and pulmonary artery pressure before, during and after a 6-h cycling exercise bout.

Methods

Eight ultra-endurance athletes were recruited for this study. Participants were assessed prior to exercise supine and seated, during exercise at 2, 4 and 6 h whilst cycling seated at 75% maximum heart rate, and post-exercise in the supine position. Standard 2D, Doppler and speckle tracking echocardiography were used to determine indices of RV size, systolic and diastolic function.

Results

Heart rate and RV functional parameters increased from baseline during exercise, however RV structural parameters and indices of RV systolic and diastolic function were unchanged between in-exercise assessment points. Neither pulmonary artery pressures (26 ± 9 mmHg vs 17 ± 10 mmHg, P > 0.05) nor RV wall stress (7.1 ± 3.0 vs 6.2 ± 2.4, P > 0.05) were significantly elevated during exercise. Despite this, post-exercise measurements revealed RV dilation (increased RVD1 and 3), and reduced RV global strain (− 21.2 ± 3.5 vs − 23.8 ± 2.3, P = 0.0168) and diastolic tissue velocity (13.8 ± 2.5 vs 17.1 ± 3.4, P = 0.019) vs pre-exercise values.

Conclusion

A 6 h cycling exercise bout at 75% maximum heart rate did not alter RV structure, systolic or diastolic function assessments during exercise. Pulmonary artery pressures are not elevated beyond normal limits and therefore RV afterload is unchanged throughout exercise. Despite this, there is some evidence of RV dilation and altered function in post-exercise measurements.
SINERGIA E COMPARTILHAMENTO
Authors: Sant’Anna Anderson de Souza , Coelho Arnaldo Fernandes Matos , Weersma Laodicéia Amorim
Published: December 2023

A liderança colaborativa emerge como perspectiva significativa no tecido das organizações contemporâneas, em que a complexidade e a interdependência se apresentam como características proeminentes (Hargreaves; Fullan, 2020). Tal abordagem desafia o paradigma tradicional orientado à pessoa do líder, deslocando o foco para a cooperação, a cocriação e o compartilhamento de poder e responsabilidade (Crevani; Lindgren; Packendorff, 2010).
Therapeutic communication and the course of the postoperative period
Authors: Motyka Marek Roman , Szufnarowska Elżbieta , Dutka Julian
Published: December 2023

Cel pracy

Celem przeprowadzonych badań była ocena efektów, jakich w stresogennej sytuacji medycznej, związanej z poważnym zabiegiem chirurgicznym dostarcza komunikacja terapeutyczna z pacjentem.

Metoda

Badaniem objęto 60 pacjentów oddziału ortopedyczno-urazowego, u których wykonano zabieg wszczepienia endoprotezy stawu kolanowego (51 kobiet i 9 mężczyzn). 30 osób zakwalifikowano do grupy eksperymentalnej, a 30 do grupy kontrolnej. W grupie eksperymentalnej poza standardowym postępowaniem miała miejsce dodatkowa, wspierająca rozmowa doświadczonej pielęgniarki z każdym z pacjentów. Grupę kontrolną przygotowywano w sposób standardowy. W badaniu wykorzystano analizę dokumentacji medycznej oraz autorski kwestionariusz ankiety.

Wyniki

Stwierdzono lepsze efekty postępowania terapeutycznego w przypadku, gdy łączy się ono z komunikacją zawierającą informacyjne i emocjonalne wsparcie oraz empatię. W grupie eksperymentalnej zaobserwowano spadek zużycia leków przeciwbólowych i uspokajających oraz szybszy powrót do sprawności. Zaobserwowano także zdecydowanie lepsze samopoczucie, większe zadowolenie z opieki pielęgniarskiej oraz wyższą, ogólną ocenę oddziału.

Wnioski

Umiejętne łączenie prawidłowego postępowania medycznego z terapeutycznie zorientowaną komunikacją zawierającą znaczny stopień emocjonalnego wsparcia i empatii poprawia przebieg okresu pooperacyjnego u pacjentów poddawanych zabiegom z zakresu chirurgii ortopedycznej.
Wskazane jest prowadzenie i rozwijanie szkoleń personelu medycznego ukierunkowanych na doskonalenie terapeutycznego kontaktu z pacjentami.
Underrepresented and Excluded from the Public Sphere: Women of Solidarity in Polish History Textbooks
Authors: Hejwosz-Gromkowska Daria , Hildebrandt-Wypych Dobrochna
Published: December 2023

The paper aims to analyze the Solidarity movement’s textbook narratives, focusing on women’s representation in the history textbooks used in upper-secondary schools between 1991-2018. Quantitative methods were used to measure different categories of historical figures (men/women) in terms of their frequency and textual space. To explore the values and ideologies embedded in the textbook narratives of Solidarity, the study was guided by the qualitative approach and the critical discourse analysis of both verbal and visual texts. Women consequently remain outside the historical narrative of Solidarity as a marginalized group. Stereotypical images and underrepresentation of women in history textbooks provide a distorted version of social reality,  acknowledging that political and social activism belongs to the public sphere occupied by men. Moreover, it reproduces the view that women do not belong to the public sphere and cannot be leaders because they are positioned in the private sphere. From the perspective of citizenship education, such a strand reproduces or/and reinforces social inequalities.
Girls and Online Civic Engagement: Why Are They Less Likely to Engage in Political Discussion and Argumentation?
Authors: Walter Natalia Małgorzata , Iwanicka Agnieszka
Published: December 2023

The text summarizes the results of the second wave of research conducted in Poland as part of the ySKILLS project (Horizon 2020), which explored young people’s digital skills and online civic engagement from six European countries. The study aimed to answer research questions about gender differences in digital skills and the forms of civic engagement in which young people participate through digital means. Data were collected through a Quantitative Longitudinal Data Collection method (survey), and the sample consisted of 1,340 Polish students aged 12–17 from twelve primary and secondary schools. The results showed that boys reported higher levels of involvement in online civic engagement than girls, especially in two areas: 1) discussing or commenting onsocial or partial political issues online and 2) joining or following a political group on social networks. Regarding digital skills, students reported higher levels of proficiency incommunication and interaction skills and lower levels in programming skills. Regarding girls’ digital skills, statistically significant differences were noticed in four areas. Boysdeclared having higher digital skills in technological and operational skills, programming skills, and information navigation and processing skills. It is recommended that schools and policymakers implement measures aimed at reducing gender disparities, for instance, by providing girls with increased chances to acquire programming skills or by highlighting to girls the advantages of engaging in online civic activities.