bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intimate Partner Violence and Alexithymia: Do Emotions Matter? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Veggi Sara , Benfante Agata , Di Tella Marialaura , Roveta Fausto , Castelli Lorys , Zara Georgia
Published: December 2023

Intimate partner violence (IPV) encompasses physical, sexual, or psychological abuse. Recent evidence suggests that victims and perpetrators might share some common psychological characteristics. Particularly, high levels of alexithymia, a difficulty in identifying and expressing emotions, and an externally oriented thinking style were found in both victims and perpetrators when compared to the general population. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the levels of alexithymia in victims and perpetrators of IPV and compare these levels to controls. We systematically searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, using the following strings: (“intimate partner violence” OR “IPV” OR “partner abuse”) AND (“alexithymia” OR “alexithymic”). The inclusion criteria were: adult perpetrators or victims of IPV; with or without a rehabilitation program; having or not a comparison group from the general population; alexithymia as outcome; all types of study design. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were meta-analyzed with random-effects models. Results showed comparable levels of alexithymia in victims and perpetrators of IPV (mean = 55.92 vs. 55.15, respectively). Furthermore, we found increased alexithymia in victims (Hedges’ g, 0.87 [95% CI 0.43, 1.31]) and perpetrators (Hedges’ g, 0.94 [95% CI 0.77, 1.12]) compared to controls. These results highlight that both perpetrators and victims exhibited high levels of alexithymia. A deeper understanding of this psychological dimension can help professionals to plan better-tailored interventions, in which all relevant factors associated with IPV are considered.
miRNA-130a-3p/CPEB4 Axis Modulates Glioblastoma Growth and Progression
Authors: Liu Hongchao , Wei Zhihao , Shi Kangke , Zhang Yu , Li Jiaqiong
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma is the most frequent form of malignant brain tumor. Cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein 4 (CPEB4) is overexpressed and involved in the tumorigenesis and metastasis of glioblastoma. miR-130a-3p has been revealed to be aberrantly expressed in tumors and has aroused wide attention. In present study, we would like to investigate the effect and potential mechanism of miR-130a-3p on the proliferation and migration in glioblastoma. The relative expression levels of miR-130a-3p and CPEB4 in glioblastoma cell lines were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell viability and migration were detected by methylthiazolyl tetrazolium assay and transwell assay, and cell cycle analysis was detected by flow cytometry. The expression of CPEB4 protein and epithelial-mesenchymal transition associated markers were detected by western blot. Bioinformatics and luciferase activity analysis were used to verify the targeting relationship between miR-130a-3p and CPEB4. We observed that the expression of CPEB4 was upregulated while that of miR-130a-3p was downregulated in glioblastoma cell lines. CPEB4 was validated as a target of miR-130a-3p by luciferase activity assay. Increased levels of miR-130a-3p inhibited the proliferation and migration of the glioblastoma cells and the overexpression of miR-130a-3p inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition. However, CPEB4 overexpression resisted the inhibitory effects of miR-130a-3p. Our study elucidates CPEB4 is upregulated because of the downregulated miR-130a-3p in glioblastoma, which enhances the glioblastoma growth and migration, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for the disease.
Analysis of second grade nanofluid flow confined by lubricated disk with bioconvection
Authors: Ahmad Manzoor , Taj Muhammad , Nazir Zahid , Shehzad Sabir Ali , Siddiq Muhammad K
Published: December 2023

Thermal mechanism of non-Newtonian nanofluid coated by lubricated power law material has been theoretically worked out. The slip interaction constraints have been proposed for inspecting the thermal transport. The concept of microorganism is utilized to achieve the stabilization of the suspension of nanoparticles. The rheological constraints of nonlinear model are observed by second grade fluid. The flow phenomenon is governed by stagnation point flow. The second-grade (SG) axisymmetric bio-convective nanofluid flow across a moving surface is considered. The flow equations are simplified by the implementation of compatible similarity transformations. The resulting system is solved numerically and analytically by using a hybrid homotopy technique. With the use of a graph and tabular data, the importance of influencing parameters in relation to the velocity field, motile density microorganism’s, temperature and concentration profiles is investigated. The thermal profile is observed to be lowering with higher Prandtl number values. There is a noticeable drop in concentration and thermal profiles against higher viscoelastic parameter values. The microorganism profile is lower in the presence of bio-convected Lewis number. Moving from Newtonian fluid to non-Newtonian fluid, a decrease in motile organism and Nusselt number.
System-level performance prognosis based on data augmentation for air brake systems of in-service trains
Authors: Ding Jingxian , Zuo Jianyong
Published: December 2023

In order to prognose the performance for air brake systems of in-service trains, a data augmentation method based on correlation analysis and improved multivariate support vector regression was proposed in this paper. By using black box theory and correlation analysis, brake cylinder pressure was extracted as the performance identification signal of air brake system, and the input and output signals were used as the auxiliary signals to construct the black box model of air brake system. Meanwhile, in order to make full use of the obtained data information, a data augmentation prognosis model based on improved multivariate support vector regression was established. Moreover, the optimal parameters of prognosis model were selected by means of particle swarm optimization algorithm, and RMSE and MAE were used as evaluation indicators. Finally, case studies on test-rig performance experiment data of air brake system were conducted. The prognosis model was trained and verified by using the service 1-7N and emergency, service full brake-relief and stage brake-relief experiment data, respectively, and the modeling and calibration error at pressure-holding stage were both in the order of ±5 kPa, which demonstrated the proposed method to be quite accurate and effective.
Enhancing air compressors multi fault classification using new criteria for Harris Hawks optimization algorithm in tandem with MODWPT and LSSVM classifier
Authors: Rahmoune Chemseddine , Amine Sahraoui Mohammed , Gougam Fawzi , Zair Mohamed , Meddour Ikhlas
Published: December 2023

The evolution of industrial systems toward Industry 4.0 presents the challenge of developing robust and accurate models. In this context, feature selection plays a pivotal role in refining machine learning models. This paper addresses the imperative of accurate fault diagnosis in industrial systems, focusing on air compressors. These systems, vital for efficient operations, demand early fault detection to prevent performance degradation. Conventional methods often encounter challenges due to the occurrence of similar failure patterns under comparable conditions. To address this limitation, our approach delves into a more complex scenario, where air compressors operate under diverse fault conditions. This study introduces novel feature selection criteria achieved through a fusion of the Maximal Overlap Discrete Wavelet Packet Transform (MODWPT), the Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO) algorithm, and the Least Squares Support Vector Machine (LSSVM) classifier. The synthesis of these components aims to bolster the multi-fault diagnosis accuracy and stability for each fault class. The evaluation focuses on key statistical metrics—minimum, maximum, mean, and standard deviation. Experimental outcomes underscore the method’s superiority over traditional feature selection techniques. The approach excels in accuracy and stability, particularly across various fault categories, affirming the efficacy and resilience of the new criteria. The symbiotic integration of MODWPT, HHO, and LSSVM within our framework highlights its potential to elevate classification performance in the realm of industrial fault diagnosis.
One new composite control based smooth nonlinear fractional order sliding mode algorithm and disturbance compensation for PMSM with parameter uncertainties
Authors: Gao Peng , Pan Huihui , Zhu Yunguo
Published: December 2023

To achieve high-quality control of PMSM with parameter uncertainties, a nonlinear smooth fractional order sliding mode composite control (NSFOSMCC) strategy is designed in this paper. This approach incorporates a novel nonlinear smooth fractional order sliding mode controller, a novel adaptive super-twisting (AST) algorithm, and a modified nonlinear extended state observer (ESO) to achieve enhanced motor performance. To effectively overcome the disadvantages of simplicity and toughness associated with the conventional fractional order sliding mode controller, a novel nonlinear smooth fractional order sliding mode controller is designed. A novel AST technique is introduced to effectively weaken chattering issues. The modified nonlinear ESO is used to estimate the uncertainty parameters of the PMSM. By combining the modified nonlinear ESO with the latest sliding mode controller, a new composite controller called NSFOSMCC strategy is developed for PMSM. The proposed NSFOSMCC strategy, utilizing a combination of “feedforward plus feedback,” is implemented for PMSM with parameter uncertainties. The reliability and stability of the controller are thoroughly established through the utilization of the Lyapunov stability theorem. Furthermore, comparative results show strong evidence supporting the effectiveness of the novel composite control strategy.
Research on surface defect identification of steel balls based on improved K-CV parameter optimization support vector machine
Authors: Li Lin , Ren Tian-ming , Feng Ming
Published: December 2023

Surface defects generated during the production process of steel balls can lead to bearing failures, which makes it crucial to promptly detect and classify these defects. Defects classify is helpful for analysis and improving the production process. An algorithm that incorporates K-fold cross-validation (K-CV) with improved grid search is proposed to optimize the parameters of SVM, in order to detect surface defects with steel balls. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to reduce the dimensionality of the effective features data. The K-CV algorithm was employed in conjunction with an improved grid search method to find the optimal parameters “c” and “g.” This approach not only reduced the search time but also diminished the influence of individual samples on the model, thereby enhancing its robustness and ultimately improving the classification accuracy. The model’s performance was evaluated using a confusion matrix, and a comparison was made with three other machine learning models. The experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in classifying defects on highly reflective metal surfaces such as steel balls. The model achieved a classification accuracy of 97.15%.
Integrating long-acting reversible contraceptives into primary care internal medicine practices: A clinical innovation to reduce wait time
Authors: Quinn Sheila M , Goldfarb Terry Rebecca , Boock Shelby , Shea Judy A
Published: December 2023

Background:

Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) has long been regarded as highly effective and safe. However, access is limited and lengthy when specialty referrals are required.

Objectives:

To integrate LARC services into an urban internal medicine primary care practice to decrease wait time for LARC procedures.

Design/methods:

This pre–post with control group study took place at two large urban academic primary care practices (Practices A and B) and included patients ages 18 to 45 years assigned female sex at birth. Pre-implementation baseline data were collected retrospectively from 2019 to 2020 by identifying subjects who requested LARC insertion or removal via their primary care practice and were referred to Obstetrics and Gynecology (Ob/Gyn) for the procedure. Wait time was noted from time of initial request in the medical record to time of procedure. Practice A developed an integrated primary care LARC program in which one of their LARC-trained providers began offering these procedures within their own practice. All other providers within the practice were educated on how to counsel patients about the devices and procedures. Practice B did not have an in-house LARC provider and continued referring patients to Ob/Gyn. Post-implementation data were collected prospectively 2021–2022.

Results:

Ninety-one patients in Practice A experienced a significant decrease in wait time (87 vs 21 days, p < 0.001) over the observation period, with a majority undergoing procedures on their first visit with the in-house LARC provider. Wait time for the 54 patients in Practice B remained unchanged (57 vs 47 days, p = .59), often requiring multiple specialty visits.

Conclusion:

Integrating LARC services into a primary care internal medicine practice can significantly reduce wait times for these procedures with the potential to contribute to increased reproductive and menstrual autonomy.
A diagnostic model for distinguishing between active tuberculosis and latent tuberculosis infection based on the blood expression profiles of autophagy-related genes
Authors: Wang Chengbin , Hua Jie , He Xiaopu , Chen Liang , Lv Shuhan
Published: December 2023

Background:

Autophagy is closely involved in the control of mycobacterial infection.

Objectives:

Here, a diagnostic model was developed using the levels of autophagy-related genes (ARGs) in the blood to differentiate active tuberculosis (ATB) and latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI).

Design:

Secondary data analysis of three prospective cohorts.

Methods:

The expression of ARGs in patients with ATB and LTBI were analyzed using the GSE37250, GSE19491, and GSE28623 datasets from the GEO database.

Results:

Twenty-two differentially expressed ARGs were identified in the training dataset GSE37250. Using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and multivariate logistic regression, three ARGs ( FOXO1, CCL2, and ITGA3) were found that were positively associated with adaptive immune-related lymphocytes and negatively associated with myeloid and inflammatory cells. A nomogram was constructed using the three ARGs. The accuracy, consistency, and clinical relevance of the nomogram were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves, the C-index, calibration curves, and validation in the datasets GSE19491 and GSE28623. The nomogram showed good predictive performance.

Conclusion:

The nomogram was able to accurately differentiate between ATB and LTBI patients. These findings provide evidence for future study on the pathology of autophagy in tuberculosis infection.
Pregnancy in a woman with extreme short stature and low body weight secondary to a collagen VI-related muscular dystrophy
Authors: O’Sullivan Joseph , Mahmood Hifsa , Curry Ruth A , Frise Charlotte
Published: December 2023

Pregnancy poses significant physiological demands, and women of extreme short stature may be particularly at risk of complications. Described here are two pregnancies in a woman who was 130 cm tall with a body mass index of 12 kg/m2 and the maternal and neonatal outcomes. The challenges encountered in the care of our patient included cardiorespiratory compromise, management of medication dosing, management of delivery and bleeding risk.
Twenty years of evolution of CML therapy: how the treatment goal is moving from disease to patient
Authors: Russo Domenico , Malagola Michele , Polverelli Nicola , Farina Mirko , Re Federica , Bernardi Simona
Published: December 2023

The introduction of imatinib in 2000 opened the era of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) for CML therapy and has revolutionized the life expectancy of CML patients, which is now quite like the one of the healthy aged population. Over the last 20 years, both the TKI therapy itself and the objectives have undergone evolutions highlighted and discussed in this review. The main objective of the CML therapy in the first 10 years after TKI introduction was to abolish the disease progression from the chronic to the blastic phase and guarantee the long-term survival of the great majority of patients. In the second 10 years (from 2010 to the present), the main objective of CML therapy moved from survival, considered achieved as a goal, to treatment-free remission (TFR). Two phenomena emerged: no more than 50–60% of CML patients could be candidates for discontinuation and over 50% of them molecularly relapse. The increased cumulative incidence of specific TKI off-target side effects was such relevant to compel to discontinue or reduce the TKI administration in a significant proportion of patients and to avoid a specific TKI in particular settings of patients. Therefore, the treatment strategy must be adapted to each category of patients. What about the patients who do not get or fail the TFR? Should they be compelled to continue the TKIs at the maximum tolerated dose? Alternative strategies based on the principle of minimal effective dose have been tested with success and they are now re-evaluated with more attention, since they guarantee survival and probably a better quality of life, too. Moving from treating the disease to treating the patient is an important change of paradigm. We can say that we are entering a personalized CML therapy, which considers the patients’ age, their comorbidities, tolerability, and specific objectives. In this scenario, the new techniques supporting the monitoring of the patients, such as the digital PCR, must be considered. In the present review, we present in deep this evolution and comment on the future perspectives of CML therapy.
Rat liver extracellular matrix and perfusion bioreactor culture promote human amnion epithelial cell differentiation towards hepatocyte-like cells
Authors: Campinoti Sara , Almeida Bruna , Goudarzi Negin , Bencina Stefan , Grundland Freile Fabio , McQuitty Claire , Natarajan Dipa , Cox I Jane , Le Guennec Adrien , Khati Vamakshi , Gaudenzi Giulia , Gramignoli Roberto , Urbani Luca
Published: December 2023

Congenital and chronic liver diseases have a substantial health burden worldwide. The most effective treatment available for these patients is whole organ transplantation; however, due to the severely limited supply of donor livers and the side effects associated with the immunosuppressive regimen required to accept allograft, the mortality rate in patients with end-stage liver disease is annually rising. Stem cell-based therapy aims to provide alternative treatments by either cell transplantation or bioengineered construct transplantation. Human amnion epithelial cells (AEC) are a widely available, ethically neutral source of cells with the plasticity and potential of multipotent stem cells and immunomodulatory properties of perinatal cells. AEC have been proven to be able to achieve functional improvement towards hepatocyte-like cells, capable of rescuing animals with metabolic disorders; however, they showed limited metabolic activities in vitro. Decellularised extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds have gained recognition as adjunct biological support. Decellularised scaffolds maintain native ECM components and the 3D architecture instrumental of the organ, necessary to support cells’ maturation and function. We combined ECM-scaffold technology with primary human AEC, which we demonstrated being equipped with essential ECM-adhesion proteins, and evaluated the effects on AEC differentiation into functional hepatocyte-like cells (HLC). This novel approach included the use of a custom 4D bioreactor to provide constant oxygenation and media perfusion to cells in 3D cultures over time. We successfully generated HLC positive for hepatic markers such as ALB, CYP3A4 and CK18. AEC-derived HLC displayed early signs of hepatocyte phenotype, secreted albumin and urea, and expressed Phase-1 and -2 enzymes. The combination of liver-specific ECM and bioreactor provides a system able to aid differentiation into HLC, indicating that the innovative perfusion ECM-scaffold technology may support the functional improvement of multipotent and pluripotent stem cells, with important repercussions in the bioengineering of constructs for transplantation.
Beyond economic dependency: Nation branding in Latin America subdued to stereotypes and neoliberal globalization
Authors: Miño Pablo
Published: December 2023

Latin American nation branding has been conceived as an economic development strategy by governments within the region, justified by the commercial and political dependency of their countries on the Global North. This study takes that perspective one step forward, proposing that the economic and political dependency of Latin American countries is embedded in the representations and stereotypes that exist about the region within different forms of global news and entertainment media. Through in-depth interviews with 25 nation branding professionals with extensive experience working on behalf of Latin American governments, this study suggests that existing stereotypes (such as being an “exotic” and/or “dangerous” region of the world) were constantly conceived as an aid and/or a constrain in their work. Theoretically, this study draws from the concept of “promotional regime of visibility.” The goal is to theorize on the existing global power relations between Latin American nations and their counterparts in the Global North to counteract these stereotypes, defined by limited and ambivalent representations of these countries’ social, cultural, and political realities.
Clinicopathological insights into an outbreak of foodborne botulism in Hamadan, Iran, in 2023: A microbiological and laboratory findings
Authors: Sadeghian Zohre , Torkaman Asadi Fatemeh
Published: December 2023

Background and Objective:

Foodborne botulism is one of the potentially fatal forms of food poisoning, usually caused by ingestion of home-canned vegetables, fruits, and dairy and fish products. This study aimed to assess the frequency of signs and symptoms in patients with botulism following the ingestion of homemade Doogh, a traditional milk-based beverage, in Hamadan, Iran in 2023. We also examined the general characteristics of the recruited patients.

Methods:

During an outbreak, 21 patients were referred to the hospital because of food poisoning. All patients had a history of consumption of Doogh. After careful physical examination, all of them were hospitalized. Botulism was suspected in all patients except for the first patient.

Results:

The mean age of admitted patients was 33.09 ± 18.44 years, with 23.80% being males and 76.20% females. Incubation period in our patients was 68 ± 28.48 h. Notable symptoms included diplopia (95.23%), nausea and vomiting (85.71%), blurred vision (80.95%), and dizziness (61.90%). The laboratory results were within the normal range. No deaths occurred in this patient cohort. Furthermore, botulinum spores were detected in Doogh samples collected from the outbreak, confirming the presence of Clostridium botulinum spores as a source of the outbreak.

Conclusions:

This study highlights that the initial manifestations of botulism predominantly involved ophthalmologic abnormalities in most patients. Additionally, symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness may manifest in cases of foodborne botulism. Timely diagnosis and treatment of botulism following the consumption of homemade Doogh played a crucial role in achieving positive outcomes, with no fatalities recorded in this patient cohort.
Acute Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in a pediatric domestic cat
Authors: Graham Molly , Ewing Patty , Whelan Megan
Published: December 2023

Case summary

A domestic shorthair cat estimated to be 4–6 weeks old was presented to a referral center for evaluation of lethargy, anorexia and diarrhea for a duration of 24 h. A feline vector-borne PCR panel, as well as a blood smear, examined by a board-certified pathologist, confirmed an Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection. Morulae were identified in both feline neutrophils and eosinophils. Treatment consisted of a 21-day course of liquid doxycycline. Clinical signs rapidly resolved and were not noted to recur.

Relevance and novel information

This case demonstrates that A phagocytophilum can infect cats as young as 4–6 weeks old. Doxycycline, as the antibiotic of choice for the treatment of A phagocytophilum infections, was used. Consistent with the literature, a rapid clinical improvement was detected. Anaplasmosis should be listed as a differential diagnosis in pediatric cats suffering from acute febrile illness with potential previous tick exposure (history of living outdoors) in order to provide proper treatment.
Clinical features, MRI findings and outcome of a primary extranodal B-cell lymphoma affecting the tympanic bulla treated with chemotherapy alone
Authors: Silva Sara , Fadda Angela , Paran Emilie , Gould Sara , Mosca Andrea
Published: December 2023

Case summary

A 2-year-old neutered female feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)-negative domestic shorthair cat was referred with an acute onset of vestibular signs. A clinical examination identified evidence of otitis externa of the right ear and enlargement of the right mandibular lymph node. MRI revealed predominantly T2 and FLAIR hyperintense and contrast-enhancing lesions affecting the right external ear canal, tympanic bulla and nasopharyngeal regions with intracranial extension. Cytology and culture and sensitivity samples collected from the middle ear via myringotomy revealed a population of intermediate to large lymphocytes consistent with lymphoma and mixed Staphylococcus chromogenes and Pasteurella species infection. PCR for antigen receptor rearrangements on the ear cytology was consistent with a B-cell rearrangement. A primary extranodal B-cell lymphoma affecting the tympanic bulla and other sites with secondary septic otitis media and interna was diagnosed. After the improvement of clinical conditions after corticosteroid, antibiotic and chemotherapy treatment, the cat was alive 22 months after diagnosis without recurrence of clinical signs.

Relevance and novel information

This is the first report of a primary extranodal B-cell lymphoma affecting the tympanic bulla with suspected involvement of the nasopharynx and cranial vault treated with chemotherapy alone in the veterinary literature. Although very rare, B-cell lymphoma should be included in the differentials for diseases affecting the inner and/or middle ear and extending intracranially in cats. Chemotherapy represents a non-invasive treatment modality with a survival of up to 22 months appearing possible.
Falling for Russian Propaganda: Understanding the Factors that Contribute to Belief in Pro-Kremlin Disinformation on Social Media
Authors: Soares Felipe Bonow , Gruzd Anatoliy , Mai Philip
Published: December 2023

As Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, social media was rife with pro-Kremlin disinformation. To effectively tackle the issue of state-sponsored disinformation campaigns, this study examines the underlying reasons why some individuals are susceptible to false claims and explores ways to reduce their susceptibility. It uses linear regression analysis on data from a national survey of 1,500 adults (18+) to examine the factors that predict belief in pro-Kremlin disinformation narratives regarding the Russia–Ukraine war. Our research finds that belief in Pro-Kremlin disinformation is politically motivated and linked to users who: (1) hold conservative views, (2) trust partisan media, and (3) frequently share political opinions on social media. Our findings also show that exposure to disinformation is positively associated with belief in disinformation. Conversely, trust in mainstream media is negatively associated with belief in disinformation, offering a potential way to mitigate its impact.
Higher Hepatitis C Cure Rates in a Patient-Centered Medical Home Compared to Specialist Care
Authors: Hughes Jonathan , Hodge Nicholas , Shadoan Amber , Ellis Courtney , Turner Ben , Glass Craig
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The new era of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) against the hepatitis C virus (HCV) has led many primary care clinicians to begin treating HCV. Nevertheless, many patients are referred to specialists due to comorbidities, care complexities, and knowledge gaps of the primary care provider. We compared clinical outcomes for patients treated within a Family Medicine Residency Program (FMRP) affiliated patient-centered medical home (PCMH) with those referred to a specialist.

Methods:

Following didactic education and development of practice resources we conducted a single-center quasi-experimental study of adults with HCV referred for treatment either internally or externally to a specialist between January 2019 and December 2020. The primary outcome was the number of patients with a sustained virologic response at 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12), utilizing an intention-to-treat analysis.

Results:

During the study period 107 patients were assessed by the PCMH, of whom 24 were deemed not a good candidate for treatment. Of the 83 patients referred for treatment, 36 patients were referred externally and 47 were treated internally. While the rate of SVR12 was 100% for both groups when analyzed per protocol (ie, only patients who completed treatment and attended all follow-ups), the rate of SVR12 was 31% for patients referred externally and 62% for patients treated internally when analyzed by intention to treat (relative risk [RR] 2.02, 95% CI 1.18-3.47, P = .01). This difference was entirely attributable to differences in lost to follow-up rates.

Conclusions:

Following education and creation of practice resources, achievement of SVR12 among patients with HCV treated by an internal interdisciplinary family medicine team was superior to those who were externally referred. This was primarily attributable to differences in follow-up rates.
Multistate Competing Risk Analysis of Transition Back to the Community Among Long-Term Care Home (LTC) Destined Patients: A Brief Report
Authors: Egbujie Bonaventure A. , Tran Jake , Hirdes John P.
Published: December 2023

Objective:

The demand for long-term care in community and facilitybased settings in Canada is expected to increase with population growth. The Toronto Grace Health Center piloted an intervention program that aims to support return to the community of acute hospital patients designated for LTC placement. We investigated whether this program was effective in transitioning the program patients back to their homes in the community and the factors associated with transitioning patients to different destinations.

Method:

We performed a competing risk multi-state analysis of 111 patients enrolled into the Harbour Light (HL) transitional unit program between January 2020 and June 2023.

Results:

At the time of the study, 92 enrolled patients had been discharged and of those these, 48.9% (45) were successfully transitioned back to their private home in the community. The remaining 51.1% (46) were discharged to other destinations. Being a female was the only positive predictor of transitioning back home. Higher CPS scores (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.31-0.88), PADDRS scale of 1+, and higher ADL Hierarchy scale, strongly predicted lower odds of transitioning back to the community.

Conclusion:

Within the context of rising LTC bed demand and lengthy waiting time in Canada, with appropriate measures, this program successfully transitioned LTC home bound persons back to their homes. If replicable on a large scale, this could provide short and long-term solution to LTC bed demand in Canada.
Early Surgical Resection of Left Atrial Myxoma After Thromboembolic Stroke
Authors: Martin Olga , Devejian Neil , Paul Alexandra , Randall Jess
Published: December 2023

We present a case report of a five-year-old male with acute ischemic stroke who underwent successful mechanical endovascular thrombectomy and early surgical resection of left atrial myxoma two days after onset of stroke symptoms without additional neurological sequelae.
Idealizing Information Systems for the Brazilian Unified Health System: Perspectives of Health Professionals
Authors: Alves Thais F. , Tourinho Francis S. V. , Almeida Fabio A. , Andrade Selma R. , Barbosa Sarah S. , Brito Fabiana A.
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to understand, from the users of Health Information Systems’ perspectives, the essential components these technologies must present to be considered appropriate for incorporation and use in the Brazilian Unified Health System. As a secondary objective, we organized the results in the dimensions of the RE-AIM framework to facilitate future translation into practice. Qualitative exploratory research was carried out through a questionnaire with open-ended questions. We built the questions based on the RE-AIM and RE-AIM QuEST frameworks. For data organization and analysis, we used the NVivo 12® software, opting for the thematic categorical analysis strategy in three stages. Twenty-nine primary care and hospital services professionals participated, including nurses, physicians, pharmacists, dentists, community health workers, and management positions. Among the five dimensions of the framework used, sixteen analytical categories emerged. Constructs related to the interoperability between different healthcare services, implementation costs, infrastructure, reduction of bureaucracy, and guarantee of information security were deemed essential when considering implementing a new information system. The sustainability of technology in health services was directly associated with its performance quality to ensure that health professionals do not abandon the use of its functions.
Self-Produced K-Pop Web Entertainment Program Production Components and Their Effect on Global Audience’s Program Satisfaction and Artist Loyalty—Focusing on “Going Seventeen”
Authors: Limic Sofija , Limb Seong-Joon
Published: December 2023

This study identified production components unique to self-produced web entertainment programs, with a key focus on the program “Going Seventeen.” The researchers identified and used production components as independent variables categorized into human, content, and format components with subcategories. We then developed a research model to examine their impact on program satisfaction and artist loyalty. The findings reveal that all components, except the artist–producer relationship, positively influence program satisfaction, which enhances artist loyalty. We also observed significant differences based on nationality, education, familiarity with Korean variety shows, and fanship level.
Spatio-Temporal Differentiation of Regional Innovation Chain: Evidence From Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region
Authors: Xu Tianjun , Weng Gangmin , Guo Wei , Cao Yidan
Published: December 2023

Based on the provincial statistical data of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region this paper uses the health distance model and obstacle degree model to explore the spatiotemporal mismatch of the development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei regional innovation chain and analyzes the obstacle factor affecting the healthy development of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei innovation chain. The results show that: (1) In terms of timing characteristics, the overall mismatch of the innovation chain in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region shows a downward trend, and the absolute and relative difference of regional mismatch both show a “V” shaped development trend, which first decreases and then increases. (2) In terms of spatial characteristics, the mismatch of the innovation chain in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region develops from unbalanced to balanced and then unbalanced, and the spatial pattern evolves from low in the middle and high around to high in the southeast and low around. (3) In terms of the obstacle factors, scientific research and development institutions, the number of college students, and the number of innovation platforms at or above the provincial and ministerial level are the obstacle factors to the more frequent occurrence.
Influence of Customer Knowledge Management on Mobile Fitness Application Customer Value Cocreation Through Flow Experience and Customer Involvement
Authors: Wang Chao , Wang Zhigang
Published: December 2023

In order to promote the innovative development of mobile fitness APP, based on value cocreation theory of customer-dominant logic, this paper discusses how the customer knowledge management, flow experience and customer involvement affect customer value cocreation in mobile fitness APPs. This study used convenience sampling and structural equation modeling to test the relationship between variables from questionnaire. Results revealed that customer knowledge management significantly and positively affected customer flow experience and customer flow experience significantly and positively affected customer value cocreation. Customer flow experience played a partial mediating role in the relationship through which customer knowledge management affected customer value cocreation, and customer involvement played a moderating role in the relationship through which customer flow experience affected customer value cocreation. Moreover, the results indicated that customer involvement significantly and positively regulated the effect of customer flow experience attention focus on customer value cocreation. Customer involvement not moderates the effect of perceived enjoyment in customer flow experience on customer value cocreation. Therefore, mobile fitness app enterprises or service organizations must strengthen knowledge management in industrial chain innovation development for strengthening the relationship with customers. Moreover, they should ensure flow experience to strengthen the psychological connection with customers and promote value cocreation to strengthen the behavioral connection with customers. These enterprises should improve the level of involvement to strengthen the emotional connection with customers.
How Digital Skills Influence on Digital Participation in China? The Mediating Roles of Online Interpersonal Communication and Online Immersion
Authors: Zhang Yu , Cao Hanyang , Zhang Wang , Wang Yating
Published: December 2023

This study examined the influencing factors of digital participation, including digital skills, interpersonal communication, online immersion and mediating roles of online interpersonal communication and online immersion. This study selected 1,204 samples from the 2017 Chinese General Social Survey. Amos 26.0 was used to test the theoretical model using the structural equation model (SEM). The study found that digital skills positively affect digital participation, digital skills positively affect online interpersonal communication and online immersion, and online interpersonal communication and online immersion positively affect digital participation. Online interpersonal communication and online immersion were found to significantly mediate the nexus between digital skills and digital participation. Moreover, income was found to be no longer a significant factor in the relationship of digital skills on digital participation. This study found the mediating roles of online interpersonal communication and online immersion between digital skills and digital participation, which was not available in previous studies. This result proved that the interaction between participants and the subjective immersive experience via the network are crucial for digital participation, and that the close information communication with different populations and an immersive network environment can facilitate the interactive expression of participants in cyberspace. The study also found that at least in China, the income gap is no longer a major factor affecting the relationship between digital skills and digital participation.
Logotype as a Tool in Marketing Communication: An Analysisof Websites of Agritourism Farms
Authors: Godlewski Grzegorz , Marciniak Adam , Zarzycka Anna M.
Published: December 2023

A logotype can have a considerable impact on the customers’ perception of a given business, generate experiences and become a basis for assigning specific associations to the brand (positive, negative, promotional). The aim of the present study is to verify the function of logotypes of selected agritourism establishments, especially in view of the rationale for placing them on home pages of websites, and the marketing function they fulfill. Homepages (the main web pages) of websites of 10 agritourism farms with the dimensions of 1,245 × 570 pixels (and 24 -bit color depth) were analyzed. The study involved 170 respondents ( n = 170), whose task was to indicate a single element they perceive as positive, negative, and one that in their opinion best serves the promotional goal in each of the 10 homepages. Statistical analyses were performed using the R-CRAN software version 4.0.2. The study confirmed that there are both differences and similarities in the responses regarding logotypes of the agritourism farms studied. The perception of the logotype depends strongly on the education level and age of respondents. The analyses also confirmed that there is no linear relationship between the size of the logo and the frequency at which it is indicated as a promotional element. The use of a detailed factor analysis of logotypes (with the use of the click-tracking technique) on the websites of agritourism farms is an innovative approach and allows for a relatively comprehensive assessment of the perception of logotypes by potential consumers of offers available on the market.
Rise of Mental Sub-Health Consumers: Examining the Compulsive Buying Behavior in the Post-COVID-19 Era
Authors: Huang Fei , Guo Wenqiu
Published: December 2023

The aftermath of the pandemic may have changes in consumer behaviors and motivations for buying. This study aims to find and prove the underlying psychological factors of compulsive buying behavior under the conditions of social isolation. The structural equation modeling via partial least squares (PLS-SEM) was used to test hypotheses and conduct a multigroup analysis on a sample of 394 consumers ( n = 206 for Utilitarian products, n = 188 for Hedonic products). The empirical findings reveal the significant relationships among perceived scarcity, perceived control, uncertainty, perceived severity through loneliness, anxiety, fear appeal and finally compulsive buying. Besides, the proved moderating effects show a significantly higher impact of anxiety on compulsive buying for those who buy utilitarian products and a significantly stronger impact of fear appeal on compulsive buying for those who buy hedonic products. This study integrates perceptions of the epidemic (perceived scarcity, perceived control, uncertainty, perceived severity) and mental-health factors (loneliness, anxiety, and fear appeal) in consumers’ compulsive buying behavior during the public health emergency period and examines its actual impact, and extends the conceptual framework of compulsive buying by comprehending the theory of fear appeal, including product type as the moderating effect.
College Students’ Civic Engagement Efficacy and Their Implementing Effects in Selected STEM Programs
Authors: Chang Dian-Fu , You Jhen-Yu , Chang Angel
Published: December 2023

Previous studies on civic engagement have been reviewed in their contextual factors, for example, factors in organizational, pedagogical, and psychological domains, while little research has confirmed the structural linkage of related latent variables in this topic. This study intends to investigate college students’ civic engagement efficacy that might affect the entire sustainability of society in their later careers. We assumed students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs in higher education, typically viewed as science-oriented education, might neglect students’ civic engagement. To detect the issue in the specific field, we designed that civic engagement and its implementation were based on students’ self-efficacy measurement. This study considered the time spent on related activities in STEM which might impact students’ involvement in civic activities. A total of 322 survey responses were analyzed, the reliability and construction of the survey instrument were verified, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to examine the causal relationships among observed and latent variables. The findings suggest the two dimensions of civic engagement in terms of civic engaging and implementing might impact students as active citizens and their involvement in local and global activities. While students’ time spent did make significant influence in this model. This study provides an example to detect a specific student’s issue in STEM programs. The findings can bridge the gap of knowledge in STEM education and civic engagement, and provide a practical approach to detect civic engagement efficacy and its impacts in higher education settings.
Examining the Differences Between Playoff Teams and Non-Playoff Teams in Men’s Euroleague; Play-Type Statistics Perspective
Authors: Akinci Yasin
Published: December 2023

The offensive tactics of basketball teams consist of a series of actions performed with the collaboration of two or more players on the court. The study aimed to determine the differences in the possessions and the points of the play-type statistics of the eight playoff teams and the other ten non-playoff teams of the 2020 to 2021 men’s Euroleague season. The study sample consists of a total of 13,056 play types obtained through systematic observation methodology, which examined 272 matches involving 17 teams. Descriptive statistics and the Mann–Whitney U test was employed to obtain the findings. It was found that the catch’n & shoot, pick and roll ball handler are the most frequently used possessions and points that produced play-type statistics for all teams. Results showed that isolation ( U = 3,7740.5; z = −3.93; p < .05) pick and roll handler’s ( U = 39,932; z = −2.91; p < .05), post-up ( U = 39,878.5; z = −2.94; p < .05) and Screen-off possessions ( U = 41,689; z = −2,107; p < .05) of the playoff teams were statistically higher than non-playoff teams. Positively significant differences were also observed in isolation ( U = 38,172; z = −3,744; p < .05), pick and roll handler’s ( U = 40,278.5; z = −2,748; p < .05), post-up ( U = 38,353.5; z = −3,659; p < .05), and Screen-off ( U = 38,819.5; z = −3,434; p < .05) points of the playoff teams and non-playoff teams. These results show that playoff teams are prominent with the screen-off possessions and points as a team play, but post-ups, pick’n roll handlers selection, and catch’n shoot possessions and points are displayed by highly talented players. The findings may assist coaches and managers in roster building. Coaches might consider including these play-types in offensive sets and can create a more productive system. This understanding can be integrated into youth organizations’ training programs to raise high-level players.