bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case-controlled trial evaluating the summative performance of the 3-D skills Model
Authors: Robertson C. , Noonan Z. , Boyle J. G.
Published: September 2024

Background

Near-peer teaching is a popular pedagogical teaching tool however many existing models fail to demonstrate benefits in summative OSCE performance. The 3-step deconstructed (3-D)skills near-peer model was recently piloted in undergraduate medicine showing short term improvement in formative OSCE performance utilising social constructivist educational principles. This study aims to assess if 3-D skills model teaching affects summative OSCE grades.

Methods

Seventy-nine third year medical students attended a formative OSCE event at the University of Glasgow receiving an additional 3-minutes per station of either 3-D skills teaching or time-equivalent unguided practice. Students’ summative OSCE results were compared against the year cohort to establish whether there was any difference in time delayed summative OSCE performance.

Results

3-D skills and unguided practice cohorts had comparable demographical data and baseline formative OSCE performance. Both the 3-D skill cohort and unguided practice cohort achieved significantly higher median station pass rates at summative OSCEs than the rest of the year. This correlated to one additional station pass in the 3-D skills cohort, which would increase median grade banding from B to A. The improvement in the unguided practice cohort did not achieve educational significance.

Conclusion

Incorporating the 3-D skills model into a formative OSCE is associated with significantly improved performance at summative OSCEs. This expands on the conflicting literature for formative OSCE sessions which have shown mixed translation to summative performance and suggests merit in institutional investment to improve clinical examination skills.
Impact of a school-based water and hygiene intervention on child health and school attendance in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Bick Sarah , Ezezew Alem , Opondo Charles , Leurent Baptiste , Argaw Wossen , Hunter Erin C. , Cumming Oliver , Allen Elizabeth , Dreibelbis Robert
Published: September 2024

Background

School-based water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) may improve the health and attendance of schoolchildren, particularly post-menarcheal girls, but existing evidence is mixed. We examined the impact of an urban school-based WASH programme (Project WISE) on child health and attendance.

Methods

The WISE cluster-randomised trial, conducted in 60 public primary schools in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia over one academic year, enrolled 2–4 randomly selected classes per school (~ 100 pupils) from grades 2 to 8 (aged 7–16) in an ‘open cohort’. Schools were assigned 1:1 by stratified randomisation to receive the intervention during the 2021/2022 or the 2022/2023 academic year (waitlist control). The intervention included improvements to drinking water storage, filtration and access, handwashing stations and behaviour change promotion. Planned sanitation improvements were not realised. At four unannounced classroom visits post-intervention (March–June 2022), enumerators recorded primary outcomes of roll-call absence, and pupil-reported respiratory illness and diarrhoea in the past 7 days among pupils present. Analysis was by intention-to-treat.

Results

Of 83 eligible schools, 60 were randomly selected and assigned. In total, 6229 eligible pupils were enrolled (median per school 101.5; IQR 94–112), 5987 enrolled at study initiation (23rd November–22nd December 2021) and the remaining 242 during follow-up. Data were available on roll-call absence for 6166 pupils (99.0%), and pupil-reported illness for 6145 pupils (98.6%). We observed a 16% relative reduction in odds of pupil-reported respiratory illness in the past 7 days during follow-up in intervention vs. control schools (aOR 0.84; 95% CI 0.71–1.00; p = 0.046). There was no evidence of effect on pupil-reported diarrhoea in the past 7 days (aOR 1.15; 95% CI 0.84–1.59; p = 0.39) nor roll-call absence (aOR 1.07; 95% 0.83–1.38; p = 0.59). There was a small increase in menstrual care self-efficacy (aMD 3.32 on 0–100 scale; 95% CI 0.05–6.59), and no evidence of effects on other secondary outcomes.

Conclusions

This large-scale intervention to improve school WASH conditions city-wide had a borderline impact on pupil-reported respiratory illness but no effect on diarrhoeal disease nor pupil absence. Future research should establish relationships between WASH-related illness, absence and other educational outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT05024890.
Power and positionality in the practice of health system responsiveness at sub-national level: insights from the Kenyan coast
Authors: Kagwanja Nancy , Molyneux Sassy , Whyle Eleanor , Tsofa Benjamin , Leli Hassan , Gilson Lucy
Published: September 2024

Background

Health system responsiveness to public priorities and needs is a broad, multi-faceted and complex health system goal thought to be important in promoting inclusivity and reducing system inequity in participation. Power dynamics underlie the complexity of responsiveness but are rarely considered. This paper presents an analysis of various manifestations of power within the responsiveness practices of Health Facility Committees (HFCs) and Sub-county Health Management Teams (SCHMTs) operating at the subnational level in Kenya. Kenyan policy documents identify responsiveness as an important policy goal.

Methods

Our analysis draws on qualitative data (35 interviews with health managers and local politicians, four focus group discussions with HFC members, observations of SCHMT meetings, and document review) from a study conducted at the Kenyan Coast. We applied a combination of two power frameworks to interpret our findings: Gaventa’s power cube and Long’s actor interface analysis.

Results

We observed a weakly responsive health system in which system-wide and equity in responsiveness were frequently undermined by varied forms and practices of power. The public were commonly dominated in their interactions with other health system actors: invisible and hidden power interacted to limit their sharing of feedback; while the visible power of organisational hierarchy constrained HFCs’ and SCHMTs’ capacity both to support public feedback mechanisms and to respond to concerns raised. These power practices were underpinned by positional power relationships, personal characteristics, and world views. Nonetheless, HFCs, SCHMTs and the public creatively exercised some power to influence responsiveness, for example through collaborations with political actors. However, most resulting responses were unsustainable, and sometimes undermined equity as politicians sought unfair advantage for their constituents.

Conclusion

Our findings illuminate the structures and mechanisms that contribute to weak health system responsiveness even in contexts where it is prioritised in policy documents. Supporting inclusion and participation of the public in feedback mechanisms can strengthen receipt of public feedback; however, measures to enhance public agency to participate are also needed. In addition, an organisational environment and culture that empowers health managers to respond to public inputs is required.
Proteomic profile of extracellular vesicles from plasma and CSF of multiple sclerosis patients reveals disease activity-associated EAAT2
Authors: D’Ambrosio Antonella , Zamboni Silvia , Camerini Serena , Casella Marialuisa , Sanchez Massimo , Pietraforte Donatella , Vanacore Nicola , Diociauti Marco , Altieri Marta , Di Piero Vittorio , Francia Ada , Pontecorvo Simona , Puthenparampil Marco , Gallo Paolo , Margutti Paola
Published: September 2024

Background and objectives

There is an urgent need to discover blood-based biomarkers of multiple sclerosis (MS) to better define the underlying biology of relapses and monitor disease progression. The main goal of this study is to search for candidate biomarkers of MS relapses associated with circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs), an emerging tool for biomarker discovery.

Methods

EVs, purified from unpaired plasma and CSF samples of RRMS patients by size-exclusion chromatography (SEC), underwent proteomic analysis to discover novel biomarkers associated with MS relapses. The candidate biomarkers of disease activity were detected by comparison approach between plasma- and CSF-EV proteomes associated with relapses. Among them, a selected potential biomarker was evaluated in a cohort of MS patients, using a novel and highly reproducible flow cytometry-based approach in order to detect low abundant EV subsets in a complex body fluid such as plasma.

Results

The proteomic profiles of both SEC-purified plasma EVs (from 6 patients in relapse and 5 patients in remission) and SEC-purified CSF EVs (from 4 patients in relapse and 3 patients in remission) revealed a set of proteins associated with MS relapses significant enriched in the synaptic transmission pathway. Among common proteins, excitatory amino-acid transporter 2, EAAT2, responsible for the majority of the glutamate uptake in CNS, was worthy of further investigation. By screening plasma samples from 110 MS patients, we found a significant association of plasma EV-carried EAAT2 protein (EV-EAAT2) with MS relapses, regardless of disease-modifying therapies. This finding was confirmed by investigating the presence of EV-EAAT2 in plasma samples collected longitudinally from 10 RRMS patients, during relapse and remission. Moreover, plasma EV-EAAT2 levels correlated positively with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score in remitting MS patients but showed a negative correlation with age in patients with secondary progressive (SPMS).

Conclusion

Our results emphaticize the usefulness of plasma EVs as a source of accessible biomarkers to remotely analyse the CNS status. Plasma EV-EAAT2 showed to be a promising biomarker for MS relapses. Further studies are required to assess the clinical relevance of this biomarker also for disability progression independent of relapse activity and transition from RRMS towards SPMS.
Utilization of maternal health care services among pastoralist communities in Marsabit County, Kenya: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Galgalo Dahabo Adi , Mokaya Peter , Chauhan Shalini , Kiptulon Evans Kasmai , Wami Girma Alemu , Várnagy Ákos , Prémusz Viktória
Published: September 2024

Background

Improving maternal healthcare services is crucial to achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-3), which aims to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. There is a consensus among different researchers that proper utilization of maternal healthcare services can improve the reproductive health of women, and this can be achieved by providing Antenatal Care (ANC) during pregnancy, Health Facility Delivery (HFD), and Postnatal Care (PNC) to all pregnant women. The main aim of this study was to investigate the utilization and factors associated with maternal and child healthcare services among women of reproductive age in the pastoralist communities in Kenya.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 180 pastoralist women who gave birth in the past two years across ten mobile villages in Marsabit County between 2nd January and 29th February 2019. Three key outcomes were analyzed, whether they attended ANC 4+ visits, delivered at HF, and received PNC. Pearson χ2 test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted by IBM SPSS27.0 following Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. The significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Of the 180 eligible pastoralist women (mean age 27.44 ± 5.13 years), 92.2% were illiterate, 93.9% were married, 33.3% were in polygamy, and 14.4% had mobile phones. The median commuting distance was 15.00 (10–74) km, 41.7% attended ANC 4+, 33.3% HFD, and 42.8% PNC. Those women residing close (≤ 15 km) to a health facility had a threefold higher ANC 4+ (OR 3.10, 95% CI 1.47–6.53), 2.8-fold higher HFD (OR 2.80, 95% CI 1.34–5.84), and 2.5-fold higher PNC (OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.19–5.22) probability. The likelihood was 30-fold higher for ANC 4+ (OR 29.88, 95% CI 6.68–133.62), 2.5-fold higher for HFD (OR 2.56, 95% CI 0.99–6.63), and 60-fold higher for PNC (OR 60.46, 95% CI 10.43–350.55) in women with mobile phones. A monogamous marriage meant a fivefold higher ANC 4+ (OR 5.17, 95% CI 1.88–14.23), 1.6-fold higher HFD (OR 1.67, 95% CI 0.77–3.62), and a sevenfold higher PNC (OR 7.05, 95% CI 2.35–21.19) likelihood. Hosmer Lemeshow test indicated a good-fitting model for ANC 4+, HFD, and PNC (p = 0.790, p = 0.441, p = 0.937, respectively).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the utilization of three essential maternal health services is low. Geographic proximity, monogamous marriage, and possession of mobile phones were significant predictors. Therefore, it is recommended that stakeholders take the initiative to bring this service closer to the pastoralist community by providing mobile health outreach and health education.
Special-form radial collateral artery perforator flaps for the reconstruction of complex hand defects
Authors: Xiong Yu , Xiong Qin , Qing Li-Ming , Wu Pan-Feng , Tang Ju-Yu , Yu Fang
Published: September 2024

Background

The reconstruction of complex wounds of the hand still has challenges in achieving aesthetic, functional and sensory recovery. We presented our experience of using the polyfoliate and chimeric radial collateral artery perforator flaps (RCAPF) to repair complex hand defects, aiming to explore the feasibility of special-form RCAPFs in hand coverage and enhance the comprehension of their respective indications.

Methods

From June 2014 to March 2021, 26 cases (19 males and 7 females, mean 44.4 years) underwent defect and sensation reconstruction of their hands with special-form RCAPFs, which manifested as multiple adjacent or irregular single wounds and composite tissue defects complicated with a degree of nerve injury. The clinical effects of the free RCAPFs were evaluated by integrating the postoperative and long-term follow-up outcomes of all cases.

Results

Altogether 8 polyfoliate flaps, 17 chimeric flaps and 1 polyfoliate-chimeric flap were harvested. Of them, 23 flaps survived uneventfully in one stage. Venous congestion occurred in 3 cases, two of which survived through vascular exploration and another one was finally repaired by the contralateral RCAPF. The follow-up results showed that the appearance of both the recipient and donor sites mostly recovered satisfactory. All the bone flaps properly healed. The BMRC sensory evaluation results of all skin flaps were S4 in 8 flaps, S3 in 18 flaps, and S2 in 9 flaps.

Conclusions

The free RCAPFs can be designed in various forms with a reliable blood supply, contributing to reconstructing simple and multiple wounds of the hand with or without bone defects and dead space.
Identification of LINC02454-related key pathways and genes in papillary thyroid cancer by weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA)
Authors: Song Yingjian , Wang Lin , Ren Yi , Zhou Xilei , Tan Juan
Published: September 2024

Background

Our previous study demonstrated that long intergenic noncoding RNA 02454 (LINC02454) may act as an oncogene to promote the proliferation and inhibit the apoptosis of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) cells. This study was designed to investigate the mechanisms whereby LINC02454 is related to PTC tumorigenesis.

Methods

Thyroid cancer RNA sequence data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) was applied to identify modules closely associated with PTC. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis was used to identify the key pathways, and the maximal clique centrality (MCC) topological method was used to identify the hub genes. The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database was used to compare expression levels of key genes between PTC samples and normal samples and explore the prognostic value of key genes. The key genes were further validated with GEO dataset.

Results

The top 5000 variable genes were investigated, followed by an analysis of 8 modules, and the turquoise module was the most positively correlated with the clinical stage of PTC. KEGG pathway analysis found the top two pathways of the ECM − receptor interaction and MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, five key genes (FN1, LAMB3, ITGA3, SDC4, and IL1RAP) were identified through the MCC algorithm and KEGG analysis. The expression levels of the five key genes were significantly upregulated in thyroid cancer in both TCGA and GEO datasets, and of these five genes, FN1 and ITGA3 were associated with poor disease-free prognosis.

Conclusions

Our study identified five key genes and two key pathways associated with LINC02454, which might shed light on the underlying mechanism of LINC02454 action in PTC.
Surgical site infection in severe trauma patients in intensive care: epidemiology and risk factors
Authors: Savio Lucie , Simeone Pierre , Baron Sophie , Antonini François , Bruder Nicolas , Boussen Salah , Zieleskiewicz Laurent , Blondel Benjamin , Prost Solène , Baucher Guillaume , Lebaron Marie , Florant Thibault , Boucekine Mohamed , Leone Marc , Velly Lionel
Published: September 2024

Background

Severe trauma is the leading cause of disability and mortality in the patients under 35 years of age. Surgical site infections (SSI) represent a significant complication in this patient population. However, they are often inadequately investigated, potentially impacting the quality of patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of SSI and risk factors in severe trauma patients.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study screening the severe trauma patients (STP) admitted to two intensive care units of an academic institution in Marseille between years2018 and 2019. Those who underwent orthopedic or spinal surgery within 5 days after admission were included and classified into two groups according to the occurrence of SSI (defined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) international diagnostic criteria) or not. Our secondary goal was to evaluate STP survival at 48 months, risk factors for SSI and microbiological features of SSI.

Results

Forty-seven (23%) out of 207 STP developed an SSI. Mortality at 48-months did not differ between SSI and non-SSI patients (12.7% vs. 10.0%; p = 0.59). The fractures of 22 (47%) severe trauma patients with SSI were classified as Cauchoix 3 grade and 18 (38%) SSI were associated with the need for external fixators. Thirty (64%) severe trauma patients with SSI had polymicrobial infection, including 34 (72%) due to Gram-positive cocci. Empirical antibiotic therapy was effective in 31 (66%) cases. Multivariate analysis revealed that risk factors such as low hemoglobin, arterial oxygenation levels, hyperlactatemia, high serum creatinine and glycemia, and Cauchoix 3 grade on the day of surgery were associated with SSI in severe trauma patients. The generated predictive model showed a good prognosis performance with an AUC of 0.80 [0.73–0.88] and a high NPV of 95.9 [88.6–98.5] %.

Conclusions

Our study found a high rate of SSI in severe trauma patients, although SSI was not associated with 48-month mortality. Several modifiable risk factors for SSI may be effectively managed through enhanced perioperative monitoring and the implementation of a patient blood management strategy.
The solute carrier transporters (SLCs) family in nutrient metabolism and ferroptosis
Authors: Sun Li-Li , He Hai-Yan , Li Wei , Jin Wei-Lin , Wei Yi-Ju
Published: September 2024

Ferroptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death caused by damage to lipid membranes due to the accumulation of lipid peroxides in response to various stimuli, such as high levels of iron, oxidative stress, metabolic disturbance, etc. Sugar, lipid, amino acid, and iron metabolism are crucial in regulating ferroptosis. The solute carrier transporters (SLCs) family, known as the “metabolic gating” of cells, is responsible for transporting intracellular nutrients and metabolites. Recent studies have highlighted the significant role of SLCs family members in ferroptosis by controlling the transport of various nutrients. Here, we summarized the function and mechanism of SLCs in ferroptosis regulated by ion, metabolic control of nutrients, and multiple signaling pathways, with a focus on SLC–related transporters that primarily transport five significant components: glucose, amino acid, lipid, trace metal ion, and other ion. Furthermore, the potential clinical applications of targeting SLCs with ferroptosis inducers for various diseases, including tumors, are discussed. Overall, this paper delves into the novel roles of the SLCs family in ferroptosis, aiming to enhance our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of ferroptosis and identify new therapeutic targets for clinical applications.
Integration of new zircon U–Pb ages with biostratigraphy to establish a high-precision age model of the Miocene Nakayama Formation on Sado Island in Central Japan
Authors: Yoshioka Jumpei , Matsuzaki Kenji M. , Niki Sota , Kuroda Junichiro , Hirata Takafumi
Published: September 2024

The most common age constraint for the diatomaceous sediments is biostratigraphy of siliceous microfossils. Although biostratigraphy is a powerful tool to establish stratigraphy and correlate with sedimentary sequences in other sites, biostratigraphy generally includes uncertainties difficult to evaluate. In this study, we measured zircon U–Pb ages of eight tuff beds intercalated with diatomaceous mudstone of the Nakayama Formation on Sado Island in Central Japan and integrated the U–Pb ages with diatom and radiolarian biostratigraphy, whose ages and errors were re-evaluated by this study, to establish an age model precisely representing the sedimentary age. Two tuff beds in the upper and middle part of the formation offered zircon U–Pb ages of 6.7 ± 0.2 Ma and 10.87 ± 0.07 Ma, which are consistent with biostratigraphy, and provided a good example of effective integration of zircon U–Pb ages with the biostratigraphy. On the other hand, zircon U–Pb ages of the other six tuff beds in the lower part are around 12 Ma and not distinguishable from each other. In addition, older zircon grains in the 6 tuff beds are assembled in the interval from 30 to 20 Ma, which is consistent with the age of the volcanic basement rocks forming most part of Sado Island. Similarities in chemical compositions of glass shards and age distributions of zircon grains indicate that the volcaniclastic components in the tuff beds should originate from single or associated magmatic activities.
Herding and investor sentiment after the cryptocurrency crash: evidence from Twitter and natural language processing
Authors: Cary Michael
Published: September 2024

Although the 2022 cryptocurrency market crash prompted despair among investors, the rallying cry, “wagmi” (We’re all gonna make it.) emerged among cryptocurrency enthusiasts in the aftermath. Did cryptocurrency enthusiasts respond to this crash differently compared to traditional investors? Using natural language processing techniques applied to Twitter data, this study employed a difference-in-differences method to determine whether the cryptocurrency market crash had a differential effect on investor sentiment toward cryptocurrency enthusiasts relative to more traditional investors. The results indicate that the crash affected investor sentiment among cryptocurrency enthusiastic investors differently from traditional investors. In particular, cryptocurrency enthusiasts’ tweets became more neutral and, surprisingly, less negative. This result appears to be primarily driven by a deliberate, collectivist effort to promote positivity within the cryptocurrency community (“wagmi”). Considering the more nuanced emotional content of tweets, it appears that cryptocurrency enthusiasts expressed less joy and surprise in the aftermath of the cryptocurrency crash than traditional investors. Moreover, cryptocurrency enthusiasts tweeted more frequently after the cryptocurrency crash, with a relative increase in tweet frequency of approximately one tweet per day. An analysis of the specific textual content of tweets provides evidence of herding behavior among cryptocurrency enthusiasts.
Benefits, barriers and recommendations for youth engagement in health research: combining evidence-based and youth perspectives
Authors: Bailey Katherine , Allemang Brooke , Vandermorris Ashley , Munce Sarah , Cleverley Kristin , Chisholm Cassandra , Cohen Eva , Davidson Cedar , El Galad Asil , Leibovich Dahlia , Lowthian Trinity , Pillainayagam Jeanna , Ramesh Harshini , Samson Anna , Senthilnathan Vjura , Siska Paul , Snider Madison , Toulany Alene
Published: September 2024

Background

Youth engagement refers to the collaboration between researchers and youth to produce research. Youth engagement in health research has been shown to inform effective interventions aimed at improving health outcomes. However, limited evidence has identified promising practices to meaningfully engage youth. This synthesis aims to describe youth engagement approaches, frameworks, and barriers, as well as provide both evidence-based and youth-generated recommendations for meaningful engagement.

Main body

This review occurred in two stages: 1) a narrative review of existing literature on youth engagement and 2) a Youth Advisory Council (YAC) to review and supplement findings with their perspectives, experiences, and recommendations. The terms ‘youth engagement’ and ‘health research’ were searched in Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO. Articles and non-peer reviewed research works related to youth engagement in health research were included, reviewed, and summarized. The YAC met with research team members and in separate youth-only forums to complement the narrative review with their perspectives. Types of youth engagement include participation as research participants, advisors, partners, and co-investigators. Barriers to youth engagement were organized into youth- (e.g., time commitments), researcher- (e.g., attitudes towards youth engagement), organizational- (e.g., inadequate infrastructure to support youth engagement), and system-level (e.g., systemic discrimination and exclusion from research). To enhance youth engagement, recommendations focus on preparing and supporting youth by offering flexible communication approaches, mentorship opportunities, diverse and inclusive recruitment, and ensuring youth understand the commitment and benefits involved.

Conclusions

To harness the potential of youth engagement, researchers need to establish an inclusive and enabling environment that fosters collaboration, trust, and valuable contributions from youth. Future research endeavors should prioritize investigating the dynamics of power-sharing between researchers and youth, assessing the impact of youth engagement on young participants, and youth-specific evaluation frameworks.
Using Normalisation Process Theory to explore the contribution of stakeholder workshops to the development and refinement of a complex behavioural intervention: the STAMINA lifestyle intervention
Authors: Reale Sophie , Turner Rebecca R. , Steed Liz , Taylor Steph J. C. , Rosario Derek J. , Bourke Liam , Morrissey Dylan , Innes Aidan Q. , Sutton Eileen
Published: September 2024

Background

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend that men with prostate cancer on androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) are offered twice weekly supervised aerobic and resistance exercise to address side effects of treatment. However, supervised exercise is not routinely offered in standard clinical practice. The STAMINA programme grant for applied research (PGfAR) has been designed to evaluate whether this recommendation can be delivered within standard NHS care. This paper describes how future implementation of NICE recommendations within the NHS was explored during complex intervention development to enable evaluation of a lifestyle intervention.

Methods

Two stakeholder workshops were conducted to explore factors pertinent to future implementation of the STAMINA Lifestyle intervention (SLI). Normalisation Process Theory (NPT) provided the theoretical framework for discussion and analysis. Stakeholder workshop 1 focussed on intervention coherence and buy-in. Stakeholder workshop 2 explored barriers and facilitators for embedding SLI into the context of the NHS, with delivery partner Nuffield Health, in the future.

Results

Workshops were attended by healthcare professionals (n = 16), exercise professionals (n = 17), members of public involved in PPI including patients (n = 12), health psychologists (n = 2), clinical commissioners (n = 4), cancer charities (n = 3), a cancer alliance (n = 1) and health economist (n = 1). Stakeholders agreed that professional training packages should emphasise the uniqueness of the SLI and underpinning theory and evidence (Coherence). To further engagement, the use of STAMINA champions and information about the delivery partner were recommended to enhance confidence and knowledge (Cognitive participation). Furthermore, a simple communication (Collective Action) and progress reporting system (Reflexive Monitoring) was suggested to fit into existing infrastructure within the NHS and community partner.

Conclusions

Application of NPT within two stakeholder workshops enhanced complex intervention development. Context-specific strategies to support implementation of SLI within the context of a trial were proposed, sensed-checked, and considered acceptable. The organisational implications of embedding and sustaining the intervention in preparation for wider NHS roll-out were considered (if proven to be effective) and will be explored in the qualitative component of a process evaluation underpinned by NPT.

Trial registration

(ISRCTN: 46385239). Registered on July 30, 2020.
Weight Loss Differentially Impacts Sex Hormones in Women and Men With Type 2 Diabetes: Look AHEAD Sex Hormone Study
Authors: Bennett Wendy L , He Jiahuan Helen , Michos Erin D , Kalyani Rita R , Clark Jeanne M , Woodward Mark , Syed Nazia , Ma Jianqiao , Everett Allen D , Yang Jun , Graham David , Ellis Greg , Vaidya Dhananjay
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite sex differences in type 2 diabetes (T2D), few studies have examined the role of sex hormones. We sought to assess the impact of weight loss, the cornerstone of T2D management, on sex hormone levels.

Methods

This was an ancillary study to the Look AHEAD (Action for Health In Diabetes) Study [n = 850 postmenopausal females, n = 890 males, with T2D and body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2]. We measured total testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), and SHBG and calculated bioavailable T (bioT). We examined the effect of the intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) on hormone changes and whether changes were mediated by waist circumference and sex differences in treatment effect.

Results

The baseline mean age was 60 years with a higher proportion of Black females (21%) vs males (9%) and higher mean BMI in females vs males (36.3 vs 34.8 kg/m2). At year 1 in females, ILI decreased E2 by 15% and bioT by 13% and increased SHBG by 21%. At year 1 in males, ILI did not change E2 levels but increased T by 14% and increased SHBG by 18%. The effect was attenuated over 4 years; there were statistically significant sex differences in treatment effect and change in waist circumference due to ILI at year 1 was a significant mediator of sex hormone changes.

Conclusion

Weight loss in T2D resulted in sex hormone changes, which varied by sex and were mediated by changes in waist circumference. Changes in sex hormones due to weight loss in T2D should be considered in the context of an individual's health risks, including cardiovascular conditions, bone health, menopausal symptoms, and cognitive function.
Alterations in Thyroid Hormones in Obese Patients Are Associated With Body Composition Changes After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Yan Yu , Chu Xuehui , Wang Jing , Kang Xing , Shan Xiaodong , Yu Hang , Zhang Xiaowen , Sun Xitai
Published: September 2024

Context

This article mainly explored the relationship between body composition and thyroid function in euthyroid obesity through correlation analysis, which showed the significant changes of thyroid function after bariatric surgery notably correlated with changes in body composition.

Objective

This study investigates how metabolic/bariatric surgery (MBS) affects thyroid hormone (TH) levels and TH resistance in obese euthyroid individuals, focusing on their correlation with changes in body composition.

Methods

We included 470 obese individuals and 118 controls for baseline assessment, and 125 obese patients receiving MBS for longitudinal study. Data on body composition and thyroid function were collected. Correlations between baseline and changes in thyroid function and body composition were assessed.

Results

In the obese group, thyrotropin (TSH), free triiodothyronine (fT3) levels, and thyroid feedback quantile-based index (TFQI) were elevated and significantly decreased post MBS, along with visceral fat area (VFA) and body fat percentages, whereas skeletal muscle mass (SMM) percentage increased. Preoperative partial correlation analysis adjusted for age and sex revealed that TSH positively correlated with VFA (r = 0.109; P = .019), body fat percentage (r = 0.114; P = .013), and negatively correlated with SMM percentage (r = −0.104; P = .024). Similar correlations were observed between central TH resistance indices and body composition, but no statistically significant correlations were found in the control group. Post MBS, decreased TSH positively correlated with decreased VFA (r = 0.251; P = .006) and increased SMM percentage (r = 0.233; P = .011). While reductions in VFA and body fat percentage were linked to improved central TH resistance, a decrease in peripheral TH conversion was noted.

Conclusion

MBS significantly affects thyroid function and TH resistance, with notable correlations to changes in body composition.
Imunização de carteira de crédito
Authors: Mar Barcelos Boris , Pascoal Filomena Tiago , Horta Eduardo
Published: September 2024

Este artigo aborda a importância da proteção de ativos de carteiras de crédito bancárias contra a volatilidade do mercado, com foco no risco de mercado associado à curva de juros. A estratégia utilizada para mitigar esse risco é o Asset and Liability Management (ALM), com destaque para a imunização de carteiras, como forma de proteger contra oscilações nas taxas de juros. Propõe-se um modelo de otimização matemática para resolver o problema de imunização de carteiras de renda fixa, considerando restrições de liquidez e de contratos, além de avaliar a sua eficácia em diferentes cenários a partir de testes com dados reais.
Experiencing deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Greece
Authors: Πατεράκη Μαριάνθη
Published: September 2024

Στην παρούσα διατριβή, εστιάζω σε μια κομβική τεχνολογία νευροτροποποίησης, την εν τω βάθει εγκεφαλική διέγερση (DBS), και την εφαρμογή της σε ασθενείς με Πάρκινσον. Το συγκεκριμένο τεχνολογικό σύστημα περιβάλλεται από μια τεχνο-οπτιμιστική ρητορική, η οποία εγείρει ανεδαφικές προσδοκίες σε ασθενείς και τις οικογένειές τους. Η προοπτική ανάκτησης του ελέγχου επί του σώματος και του νου, και το να γίνει και πάλι κάποια/ος «λειτουργική/ός», βρίσκονται στον πυρήνα αυτής της ρητορικής. Υποστηρίζω, στην παρούσα διατριβή, πως αυτή η απεικόνιση του DBS ως «τεχνολογικής λύσης» (technological fix), η οποία επιτρέπει στα άτομα μια ομαλή συνέχιση της ζωής τους, όπως ήταν πριν από το Πάρκινσον, επιτελεί μια λειτουργία black-boxing. Η διαδικασία αυτή επιτελείται καθιστώντας την τεχνολογία αδιαφανή, και αποσιωπώντας της πολλαπλές συνυφάνσεις από τις οποίες εξαρτάται το DBS και το εμφυτευμένο σώμα, καθώς και τις τυχαιότητες της cyborgization. Στην μελέτη αυτή, διεξάγοντας μια έρευνα πεδίου, ανοίγω αυτό το μαύρο κουτί, καθιστώντας και πάλι ορατές της συνυφάνσεις των cyborg σωμάτων. Αρχικά, εστιάζω στην προσβασιμότητα στο DBS στο ελληνικό πλαίσιο. Στην προσπάθειά μου να καταστήσω σαφείς και ορατές τις περιπλοκότητες που περιβάλλουν την τεχνολογία, εξετάζω αρχικά την εφαρμογή του DBS στα πλαίσια του Ελληνικού Εθνικού Συστήματος Υγείας, και δείχνω πώς το να καταστεί, να ζει και να παραμένει κάποιος/α cyborg ενέχει μια σειρά από εξαρτήσεις, από ανθρώπινα και μη-ανθρώπινα στοιχεία. Δείχνω έτσι τις τυχαιότητες που ανακύπτουν στις διαδικασίες τις cyborgization. Στη συνέχεια, εξετάζω την πολλαπλότητα των ενσωματώσεων των εμφυτευμένων σωμάτων που ανακύπτουν εντός αυτών των διαδικασιών. Εκεί, αμφισβητώντας την γραμμικότητα της υποτιθέμενης επιστροφής των ασθενών με χρόνια ασθένεια στην λειτουργικότητα, δείχνω πως οι cyborg εμπειρίες είναι πολλαπλές. Στη θέση ενός δυισμού ανάμεσα σε μια κατάσταση «υγείας» και μια «παθολογίας», παρουσιάζω ένα σύνθετο φάσμα από ενσωματώσεις. Στο πλαίσιο αυτό, τονίζω τόσο τις πολλαπλότητες όσο και τις χρονικότητες των cyborg εμπειριών. Η μελέτη των cyborg εμπειριών, προχωρά κατόπιν σε ένα βαθύτερο επίπεδο. Οι τεχνολογίες υποδόριας νευροτροποποίησης δεν εγγυώνται μια κανονική λειτουργικότητα ή την «διαφάνεια», ενώ η βιονική ενσωμάτωση επηρεάζεται από ισχυρά συναισθήματα. Τα συναισθήματα δύνανται να κλονίσουν μια πετυχημένη ενσωμάτωση της τεχνολογίας.Εντέλει, αμφισβητώντας την θέση της «αυτονoμίας» των εμφυτευμένων ατόμων, στρεφόμενη στις πρακτικές φροντίδας, δείχνω πώς τα εμφυτευμένα σώματα παγιδεύονται (entrapped) σε άλλους σύνθετους ιστούς εξαρτήσεων. Επιπλέον, ισχυρίζομαι πως, καθώς η φροντίδα για τα εμφυτευμένα σώματα ενέχει και την συντήρηση των τεχνολογικών μερών τους, τα όρια μεταξύ φροντίδας και συντήρησης θολώνουν.
Introduction
Authors: Michalelli Maria , Papachristou Maria
Published: September 2024

An introduction to Mos Historicus: A Critical Review of European History's second issue.
Εξεγέρσεις στη Νότια Ροδεσία 1896-1897
Authors: Χιωτέλλης Αντώνιος
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα μελέτη εξετάζει τις εξεγέρσεις των Ndebele και Shona εναντίον της Βρετανικής Εταιρείας Νοτίου Αφρικής κατά τα έτη 1896-1897. Στόχος της έρευνας είναι να αναδειχθούν η φύση, τα αίτια, η εξέλιξη και τα αποτελέσματα της αντιαποικιακής εξέγερσης των δύο φυλών, της πρώτης σοβαρής αντιαποικιακής απόπειρας στον χώρο της Υποσαχάριας Αφρικής. Οι εξεγέρσεις αυτές συνιστούν προνομιακό πεδίο έρευνας διότι επιτρέπουν την ενδελεχή μελέτη των τοπικών κοινωνιών και ταυτόχρονα υποδεικνύουν το ποιόν της βρετανικής αποικιακής παρουσίας στην περιοχή της επονομαζόμενης Νότιας Ροδεσίας. Ιδιαίτερη έμφαση δίνεται στα νέα δεδομένα που επέβαλλε η αποικιακή κυριαρχία στην περιοχή, τα οποία οδήγησαν στην εξέγερση του ιθαγενούς πληθυσμού. Τέλος παρουσιάζεται ο αποικιακός νομιμοποιητικός λόγος ως απόπειρα δικαιολόγησης των βρετανικών πολεμικών πρακτικών αλλά και της αποικιακής παρουσίας των Βρετανών στη Νότια Ροδεσία εν γένει.
Η γη σε αυτούς που την καλλιεργούν;
Authors: Αγγελής-Δημάκης Δημήτρης
Published: September 2024

Η παρούσα μελέτη εξετάζει την πορεία των συλλογικών κινητοποιήσεων και των κοινωνικών συγκρούσεων στην ισπανική ύπαιθρο από τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες του 19ου αιώνα μέχρι και την έναρξη του Ισπανικού Εμφυλίου Πολέμου. Επικεντρώνεται στους κοινωνικούς και πολιτικούς φορείς που είχαν συγκροτήσει τις δικές τους συλλογικές δομές εθνικής εμβέλειας, δημιουργώντας παράλληλα δίκτυα τοπικών και περιφερειακών συλλογικοτήτων στο σύνολο της χώρας. Το άρθρο διερευνά την πορεία των συλλογικών αιτημάτων, δίνοντας ιδιαίτερη έμφαση στις θέσεις που διατυπώθηκαν γύρω από τοακανθώδες ζήτημα της αναδιανομής της γης και την προοπτική αγροτικής μεταρρύθμισης. Με αυτό τον τρόπο φωτίζονται ο χαρακτήρας και η δυναμική των κοινωνικών εντάσεων στις αγροτικές κοινωνίες της Ισπανίας μέσα από τον εντοπισμό συνεχειών και ασυνεχειών, κορυφώσεων και υφέσεων.
Case Report: Shewanella algae, a rare cause of osteosynthesis-associated infection
Authors: Masmoudi Sofiane , Khlif Mohamed Ali , Battikh Hajer , Zribi Meriam , Barsaoui Maher , Zitouna Khaled
Published: September 2024

Shewanella is an emerging human pathogen. It mostly causes skin and soft tissue infections. Osteosynthesis-associated infection involving Shewanella are rare and in most cases are secondary to direct contamination following open fractures in aquatic environments. Here, we present a rare case of hematogenous osteosynthesis-associated infection involving Shewanella algae affecting an 18-year-old patient who was operated on for 12th thoracic vertebrae and 4th lumbar vertebrae fractures occurring in an aquatic environment. We performed surgical debridement with subsequent double course parenteral antibiotherapy that was then adapted to bacteria sensitivities for three weeks. After a follow-up of six months, the patient had no signs of recurrent infection. The presence of infected dermabrasions and the concordance between germs isolated in operative samples and in blood cultures presumes that the contamination was hematogenous.
Bibliometric Analysis of Islamic Crowdfunding: A Literature Review of Its Journey
Authors: Purwatiningsih Aris , Purnamasari S , Setyawati Harini , Indriani Astiwi , Prawitasari Dian , Fitria Shoimatul
Published: September 2024

Background The potential of Islamic crowdfunding to encourage the development of Islamic fintech globally, even in countries with non-Muslim majority populations, needs to be examined in a literature study on this issue. More extensive research is needed regarding the factors that most reliably predict the success of Islamic crowdfunding, such as compliance with Islamic crowdfunding laws, sustainability, and the potential of Islamic finance. This article describes a comprehensive and systematic Literature Review (SLR) regarding papers published in the field of Islamic crowdfunding. This research aims to contribute to a better understanding of Islamic crowdfunding, provide useful information for practitioners, and stimulate further research in the field to increase the success of Islamic crowdfunding. Methods We conducted a review of selected papers to identify gaps and significant issues in Islamic crowdfunding, providing guidance for future researchers. This article review was based on 704 articles retrieved using the keyword “Islamic crowdfunding” from the Scopus database between 2013 and 2022. To minimize bias, we formulated 5 research questions to guide our analysis: RQ1: How do publication and citation rates vary annually? RQ2: How can we determine the most influential studies based on citation counts for each keyword? RQ3: What are the most common subject areas addressed in Islamic crowdfunding literature from 2013 to 2022? RQ4: What are the most frequently used keywords in Scopus documents? RQ5: How are Islamic values discussed in articles related to Islamic crowdfunding? Results The findings of this research demonstrate that Islamic crowdfunding, characterized by interdisciplinary scholarship, has emerged as an increasingly significant alternative for aiding society and the economy. It contributes to poverty alleviation and the development of specific sectors through channels such as crowdfunding for small and medium enterprises and social projects tailored to meet the diverse needs of Muslims. However, the challenge facing the future development of Sharia crowdfunding is that, despite its benefit of increasing community participation in projects aligned with religious values, it also carries the potential risk of investment losses and non-compliance with Sharia principles. Ways to address the current scarcity of Sharia fintech are also needed, ensuring its broader acceptance across all societal levels, and enhancing Muslims’ understanding of compliance with Islamic religious rules, particularly Fiqh law. Conclusion Urgently needed are specific fiqh regulatory guidelines to ensure that Sharia-compliant crowdfunding adheres to Islamic principles. Government support, particularly through legislation in countries where the majority of the population is Muslim, is crucial to enhance public participation and trust in Sharia crowdfunding.
Enhancing sustainable energy production through biomass gasification gas technology: a review
Authors: Alabi Oluwaseyi O. , Gbadeyan Oluwatoyin Joseph , Towoju Olumide A. , Deenadayalu Nirmala
Published: September 2024

This proposed research investigates the sustainable and innovative use of biomass gasification for generating electricity. Biomass gasification is a versatile and eco-friendly technology that converts organic materials, such as agricultural residues, forestry waste, and even municipal solid waste, into a valuable source of clean energy. This research delves into the various aspects of this technology, including its processes, efficiency, environmental impact, and potential applications in power generation. Biomass gasification gas, often referred to as syngas, presents a promising avenue for addressing the rising energy demand while lowering greenhouse gas emissions and preventing climate change. This research seeks to offer a thorough insight into the principles and practices behind biomass gasification, highlighting its role in the transition towards a sustainable and renewable energy future. The research will investigate the technical and economic feasibility of utilizing biomass gasification gas for electricity generation, examining the benefits, challenges, and opportunities associated with this alternative energy source. By addressing critical issues such as feedstock availability, gasifier technology, gas cleaning processes, and power plant integration, this study seeks to offer valuable insights into the potential of biomass gasification gas as a clean and renewable energy solution.
Clust&See3.0 : clustering, module exploration and annotation
Authors: Lopez Fabrice , Spinelli Lionel , Brun Christine
Published: September 2024

Background Cytoscape is an open-source software to visualize and analyze networks. However, large networks, such as protein interaction networks, are still difficult to analyze as a whole. Methods Here, we propose Clust&See3.0, a novel version of a Cytoscape app that has been developed to identify, visualize and manipulate network clusters and modules. It is now enriched with functionalities allowing custom annotations of nodes and computation of their statistical enrichments. Results As the wealth of multi-omics data is growing, such functionalities are highly valuable for a better understanding of biological module composition, as illustrated by the presented use case. Conclusions In summary, the originality of Clust&See3.0 lies in providing users with a complete tool for network clusters analyses: from cluster identification, visualization, node and cluster annotations to annotation statistical analyses.