bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of strain on the adiabatic shear behaviour of AZ31 magnesium alloy
Authors: Guo Wenrui , Zhou Le , Mao Pingli , Wang Zhi , Wang Feng , Wei Ziqi
Published: June 2024

The effect of strain on the adiabatic shear behaviour of AZ31 magnesium alloy under high strain rate compression was studied using split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB). The microstructure of the specimen was characterised using optical microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction. The results indicate that the adiabatic shear sensitivity increased with the strain. The microstructure evolution of adiabatic shear deformation has been investigated. Firstly, a large number of twins and dislocations are formed and accumulate in the early stage of deformation. Subsequently, they transform into dynamic recrystallised grains, forming an adiabatic shear band (ASB) and ultimately leading to crack formation. The dynamic recrystallisation mechanism in the ASB involves twinning-induced dynamic recrystallisation (TDRX) and rotational dynamic recrystallisation (RDRX). This study has analysed the ASB mechanism, which provides a foundation for material selection and the design of magnesium alloys.
Automatic Detection of Road Subsurface Distress via Curriculum Learning: Learn Like an Expert
Authors: Yue Guanghua , Liu Chenglong , Li Yishun , Du Yuchuan , Gao Qian
Published: June 2024

The application of deep learning algorithms for subsurface distress detection using ground penetrating radar (GPR) data has seen extensive utilization. However, a significant impediment arises because of the challenge in acquiring ground-truth subsurface distress samples. This scarcity of labeled data leads to incomplete training of deep learning algorithms and gives rise to a critical concern with respect to over-fitting. Generating additional samples through numerical simulation constitutes one of the most efficient methods to overcome insufficient GPR training samples. If both real and simulated samples are mixed for training, the deep learning model may miss the complexities in the samples and their learning state. Concurrently, the presence of noise and anomalous samples might lead the model to converge toward a suboptimal local minimum. This phenomenon is particularly conspicuous in the field of GPR because of the stochastic and disordered propagation of radar waves, resulting in amplified noise and abnormal samples. A robust curriculum learning algorithm, inspired by expert training methods, was created to train models from simple simulated samples to complex field samples. This strategy evaluates the performance of two object detection models, YOLOv7 and Faster R-CNN, under the proposed framework. Compared to the model trained from the whole datasets out of order, the precision, recall, F1_score, and mean average precision are all improved. The results demonstrate that the proposed method can enhance the model’s precision by approximately 8% and recall by about 11% under the same dataset. These findings highlight its great potential for expediting convergence and boosting the overall model performance.
Early Pandemic Behaviors and the Role of Vaccines in Reversing Pandemic Mobility Trends: Evidence from a U.S. Panel
Authors: Obeid Hassan , Anderson Michael , Bouzaghrane Mohamed Amine , Li Meiqing , Parker Madeleine , Hayes Drake , Frick Karen , Rodriguez Daniel , Chatman Daniel , Sengupta Raja , Walker Joan
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted travel behavior and resulted in the emergence of new mobility trends. In this paper, we study the degree to which vaccines played a role in reversing pandemic-induced travel behaviors and contributed to a “return to normal.” Using five waves of original U.S.-based survey data combined with passive smartphone tracking data collected in 2020 and 2021, we show that in the early phases of the pandemic, the behavioral response of people in the United States was heterogeneous: individuals with low levels of concern about being infected with COVID-19 engaged in riskier behaviors than those with higher levels of concern, such as traveling more, eschewing masks, attending large gatherings, and using public transportation. Vaccine availability in early 2021 played a significant role in reducing those concerns, which in turn was reflected in significantly increased mobility and travel frequency. We also found a strong positive association between getting vaccinated and the frequency of using public transportation. Telecommuting and working from home remained high after vaccine availability, but we found that the fraction of full-time employees that worked from home every day significantly dropped. This reduction in fully remote work was no different among vaccinated and unvaccinated people, which suggests that the decision to return to in-person work was not only driven by employees’ safety concerns and preferences, but was also a function of employers’ expectations and their decision to reopen their offices. We discuss the implications of our findings on understanding travel behavior during pandemic impact- and recovery periods.
Real-Time Risk Identification and Prediction for the Target Lane’s Following Vehicle during Lane Change
Authors: Wang Xuesong , Liu Shikun , Zhang Junyi , Ni Daiheng
Published: June 2024

Real-time risk identification and prediction can assist a driver’s decision-making to ensure driving safety during lane change (LC). Previous studies seldom focused on the risk for the target lane’s following vehicle (TFV). In addition, temporal risk and spatial risk are often ignored in risk quantification. Key features in different LC scenarios deserve more discussion, as well. To address these gaps, this study proposes a framework, including: a real-time temporal and spatial risk quantification indicator for TFVs, risk labeling by the clustering method, and risk prediction and key features comparison by machine learning. LC events and candidate features were extracted from the Shanghai Naturalistic Driving Study (in China), and all events were divided into three scenarios based on road types: freeway, expressway, and surface road. K-means was adopted to classify risk into three levels: high-risk, medium-risk, and low-risk. The extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) algorithm was applied to predict the real-time risk. Key features comparison results emphasized the importance of interaction features between TFVs and surrounding cars in all scenarios, especially for the relative acceleration. In the freeway scenario, the most important interaction object was the lane-changing vehicle, while for the other two scenarios it was the leading vehicle in the target lane. Relative distance became a more important factor for risk in the expressway and surface road scenarios, and the importance of the relative speed increased significantly in the surface road scenario. These findings can guide the design of advanced driving assistance systems for TFV during LC.
Publicly Subsidized Childcare and the Labor Force Participation Rates of Men and Women: Evidence From OECD
Authors: adrangi Bahram , Jeszenszki Krisztian
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the association between public spending on childcare and the labor force participation rates of both women and men, considering both full-time and part-time employment in Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. We include both genders in the study to reveal the potential imbalances in the impact of the public childcare expenditure on the labor market across gender lines. The findings of this paper align with previous research, indicating that policies promoting part-time work and parental leave benefits increase part-time employment for both females and males. The results highlight that publicly subsidized childcare, when combined with other family-friendly programs, represents an effective policy approach for promoting male and female employment in potentially high-skilled positions.
Independent Risk Factors for Prolonged Tube Feeding After Endotracheal Intubation and Ventilation
Authors: Pradhan Prajwal M. , Marmor Schelomo , Tignanelli Christopher , Misono Stephanie , Hoffmeister Jesse
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Postextubation dysphagia (PED) can lead to prolonged tube feeding, but risk factors associated with prolonged tube feeding in this population are largely unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify factors independently associated with prolonged tube feeding in adult inpatients who required intubation and mechanical ventilation.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective observational cohort study in a dataset of 1.3 million inpatients. Extubated adults without preventilation dysphagia or tube feeding who underwent instrumental swallowing assessment were included. To characterize factors independently associated with prolonged tube feeding, we compiled a set of potential factors, completed factor selection using a random forest algorithm, and performed logistic regression.

Results

In total, 206 of 987 (20.9%) patients had prolonged tube feeding. The regression model produced an area under the curve of 0.79. Factors with the greatest influence on prolonged tube feeding included dysphagia with thickened liquids, dysphagia with soft/solid foods, preadmission weight loss, number of intubations, admission for neurologic disorder, and hospital of admission.

Conclusions

Several factors predicted prolonged tube feeding after extubation. The strongest were some, but not all, aspects of swallowing function and clinical practice pattern variability. Clinical decision-making should consider bolus-specific data from instrumental swallowing evaluation rather than binary presence or absence of dysphagia.
Development and Validation of a Nomogram for Predicting Survival Based on Ferritin and Transferrin Ratio in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Huang Shuqing , Lai Hao , Pan Xiaolan , Lin Qiumei , Qin Yuling , Liu Fengfei , Fang Min , Huang Wencheng , Wei Caibiao
Published: June 2024

Background

Our objective is to develop a predictive model utilizing the ferritin and transferrin ratio (FTR) and clinical factors to forecast overall survival (OS) in breast cancer (BC) patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinical data from 2858 BC patients diagnosed between 2013 and 2021. Subsequently, the cohort of 2858 BC patients underwent random assignment into distinct subsets: a training cohort comprising 2002 patients and a validation cohort comprising 856 patients, maintaining a proportional ratio of 7:3. Employing multivariable Cox regression analysis within the training cohort, we derived a prognostic nomogram. The predictive performance was assessed using calibration curves, C-index, and decision curve analysis.

Results

The final prognostic model included the TNM stage, subtype, hemoglobin levels, and the ferritin-transferrin ratio. The nomogram achieved a C-index of .794 (95% CI: .777-.810). The nomogram demonstrated superior predictive accuracy for OS at 3, 5, and 7 years for BC, with area under the time-dependent curves of .812, .782, and .773, respectively. These values notably outperformed those of the conventional TNM stage. Decision curve analysis reaffirmed the greater net benefit of our nomogram compared to the TNM stage. These findings were subsequently validated in the independent validation cohort.

Conclusion

The FTR-based prognostic model may predict a patient’s OS better than the TNM stage in a clinical setting. The nomogram can provide an early, affordable, and reliable tool for survival prediction, as well as aid clinicians in treatment option-making and prognosis evaluation. However, further multi-center prospective trials are required to confirm the reliability of the existing nomogram.
Change in Nutrition Behavior After Participating in an Obesity-Related Cancer Education Program in El Paso, Texas.
Authors: Miller Mary , Valenzuela Roy , Salinas Jennifer J.
Published: June 2024

Background

Roughly 25% of the U.S- Border city, El Paso, Texas is obese. Obesity is a major risk factor for 13 cancers. Cancer is the leading cause of death in El Paso. Therefore, there is a growing urgency to implement evidence-based programs that support behavioral change that helps curb the impact of obesity in El Paso and the U.S.-Mexico border region.

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an obesity-related cancer prevention program (Pasos Para Prevenir Cancer (PPPC) on changes in participant nutrition behaviors.

Methods

Culturally tailored, theory-based education was provided to adults through the PPPC program. A total of 256 PPPC participants agreed to take part in our program evaluation. Participants were asked to complete a survey at baseline and 6 months after they completed the program. Session included topics on obesity-related cancers, assessing your obesity risk, measuring body fat, SMART goal setting, and how to find the right type of physical activity. For this report we used the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) data to assess changes between baseline and six months. We also used perceived dietary barriers as moderators on the relationship between program participation and nutrition behaviors.

Results

Most participants (92.2%) identified as being of Mexican American descent, were between the ages of 41-75 years of age (n = 165) and identified as females (n = 225). 48.1% of the participants were born in Mexico while 50.4% were born in the U.S. Approximately 35-51% of participants improved and sustained their intake of healthier foods at 6 month follow up. Specifically, there was a statistically significant shift from higher fat and sugar content foods to light and low-fat foods, and fruits and vegetables. Participants also increased their consumption of ground chicken, lean red meat, and seafood. A key modifier in this relationship is perceived health risk.

Conclusion

Latinos on the U.S.-Mexico border ascribe to a healthy living mindset. In general, they frequently eat fruits and vegetables. Participation in PPPC increased perceived barriers to healthy living around cost and convenience and enhanced decision-making around healthier options. Participants responded to our adapted evidence-based program resulting in sustained changes in nutrition behaviors. Using adapted evidence-based strategies developed outside of the U.S.-Mexico border region is a feasible approach to address persist health disparities.
Willingness to Pay for Social Health Insurance Among Public Health Workers in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Kaso Abdene Weya , Merkeb Minasse , Obsie Girma Worku , Zenebe Getachew Assefa , Agero Gebi , Tololu Abdurehman Kalu , Hailu Alemayehu
Published: June 2024

In Ethiopia, Social Health Insurance (SHI) implementation was delayed repeatedly due to employees’ unwillingness to pay 3% of their monthly salary and fear related to the scheme’s healthcare coverage. However, provisions of comprehensive training for health workers on health insurance and inclusion of healthcare financing methods in health practitioner education curriculum make their level of willingness to pay for SHI schemes uncertain. Thus, this study aimed to assess willingness to pay for the SHI scheme and its determinant factors among Healthcare providers in the Gedeo zone. From July 1 to 15, 2022, we carried out an institution-based cross-sectional study among 430 healthcare providers recruited using a multistage sampling technique. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine the factors associated with willingness to pay for Social Health insurance. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and P values of <.05 with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to declare statistical significance. Out of 73.4% (95% CI: 68.8%, 77.6%) healthcare providers willing to join the SHI program, only 47.3% (95% CI: 41.5%, 53.2%) were willing to pay for the proposed 3% premium of their monthly salary. Healthcare providers who had >10, 000 Birr monthly salary (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.14, 5.26), difficulty in paying for healthcare (AOR = 3.55, 95% CI: 1.22, 10.29), history of chronic conditions (AOR = 4.61, 95% CI: 2.41, 8.82), positive attitude (AOR = 3.16, 95% CI: 1.62, 6.18), and good knowledge of the social health insurance scheme (AOR = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.17, 4.72) were more likely to pay for the social health insurance. More than half of the healthcare providers expressed a lack of willingness to pay for the social health insurance scheme. So, the government should provide an awareness creation program on the concepts and principles of the SHI scheme to improve the willingness to pay for the scheme.
Agency in a datafied society: an introduction
Authors: Hepp Andreas , Görland Stephan O
Published: June 2024

In media and communication research the datafied society has become a core concept for describing a society in which data-based sense making has become a fundamental principle of the construction of reality. In datafied societies it is often suggested that the possibilities of human agency are evolving, while also recognizing that a new form of machinic agency has become a ubiquitous phenomenon of daily life. The thematic issue Agency in a datafied society takes up such a discussion and aims to contribute to further clarification through theoretical and empirical articles. This introduction aims to achieve two objectives: First, it addresses the intellectual risks posed by empirical and conceptual ambiguity linked to vague interpretations of a datafied society. In tandem, it systematically categorizes the diverse applications of the term agency in the context of investigating a datafied society. Both serve as a foundation for situating the further contributions to this special issue in within the broader discourse of the field.
An interpretative phenomenological analysis of the psychosexual identity development in adolescent and young adult survivors of testicular cancer
Authors: Aldiwan Abdullah , McParland James , Leeuwerik Tamara , Stoneham Sara , Williamson Max , Christie Deborah
Published: June 2024

Background

Qualitative research has explored how some testicular cancer survivors (TCS) experience the psychological impacts of diagnosis and treatment. More research into the impacts of testicular cancer (TC) on adolescent and young adults (AYA) is needed due to the critical period of identity development. The present study aimed to explore how AYA with TC appraise and make sense of their experience and to develop a greater understanding of psychosexual identity development in AYA TCS.

Method

Eight AYA TCS were interviewed. The results were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The questions explored the experiences relating to diagnosis and treatment, how it affected their psychosexual identity development (e.g., sexual relationships and self-image) and the meanings attached to the experiences.

Analysis

Four Group Experiential Themes were developed from the data; ‘Dealing with the shock’, ‘Fear and weight of responsibility’, ‘those closest to me’ and ‘sense of change’.

Discussion

The AYA TCS experiences may result in adoption of traditional masculine traits (e.g., stoicism) or abandonment of traditionally masculine traits (E.g. violence and aggression). AYA TCS also described feelings of insecurity when compared to other men. Psychology input could help manage stoicism and feelings of inferiority when compared to men with two testicles.
Autistic adults’ perspectives and experiences of diagnostic assessments that include play across the lifespan
Authors: Pritchard-Rowe Emma , de Lemos Carmen , Howard Katie , Gibson Jenny
Published: June 2024

Play is often included in autism diagnostic assessments. These tend to focus on ‘deficits’ and non-autistic interpretation of observable behaviours. In contrast, a neurodiversity-affirmative assessment approach involves centring autistic perspectives and focusing on strengths, differences and needs. Accordingly, this study was designed to focus on autistic perspectives of diagnostic assessments that incorporate play. Autism community stakeholders were consulted on the design of the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 autistic adults aged 18–57 years who live in the United Kingdom. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to identify themes. Autistic adults highlighted the varying ways in which play was included in their diagnostic assessments, such as via the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. Our findings highlight the importance of better adapting assessment to the heterogeneity of autism. For example, our findings question the extent to which play is useful for assessing autistic women and girls who mask. Our findings also suggest that holistic, neurodiversity-affirmative assessment practices should be adopted. Our findings support the importance of adopting a personalised approach to diagnostic assessments that use play, in addition to assessing strengths and differences as well as needs.

Lay abstract

Play is often included in autism diagnostic assessments. These assessments tend to focus on negatives and how people who are not autistic interpret observable behaviours. It is important to take a neurodiversity-affirmative assessment approach. This involves focusing on what autistic people say and looking at strengths and needs. We wanted to find out how autistic adults experience diagnostic assessments that include play. We asked autistic and non-autistic people to help us design our study and interview questions. We then interviewed 22 autistic adults to find out what they think about the use of play in assessments. We used a qualitative method called interpretative phenomenological analysis to analyse the data. Autistic adults told us about the different ways play was included in their diagnostic assessments. For example, some completed a diagnostic tool called the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. Autistic adults also talked about the importance of considering how autistic people are different to each other. For example, we found that play may not be useful for assessing women or girls who mask. This suggests that professionals should adopt a personalised approach to diagnostic assessments that use play catering to each person’s needs. Our findings also suggested that professionals should assess strengths and differences as well as needs.
Penal extractivism: A qualitative study on punishment and extractive industries in Peru
Authors: Tuesta Diego , Paredes Maritza
Published: June 2024

This article introduces the concept of penal extractivism in the punishment and society literature. We define penal extractivism as the punitive strategies that a state implements to safeguard extractive industries from citizens’ contention. This concept addresses the limitations of categories like criminalization, protest policing, social control, and labour discipline while bridging the gap between punishment studies and research on extractive industries. Additionally, we draw upon evidence of the Espinar mining conflict in Peru to explain five punitive strategies the state uses to handle protests: (1) off-duty policing and critical assets legislation, (2) state of emergency declarations, (3) police or prosecutorial notes against environmental defenders, (4) criminal indictments, and (5) the transferring of criminal cases to distant jurisdictions. Based on our findings, we argue that penal extractivism is a dynamic and ambivalent project that targets marginalized rural populations. The state partially deters mobilizations but fails to address the underlying social unrest, reinforcing the conditions that perpetuate mining conflicts. This in-depth within-case analysis examines the relationship between punishment and extractivism in the global context of contemporary social mobilizations.
Action research with sociodrama in a healthcare institution
Authors: Blaskó Ágnes
Published: June 2024

This article presents an action research study initiated in 2021, which employed the sociodrama method within a medical institution with healthcare assistants to improve their situation. The study discusses firstly the implications of the deepening and broadening nature of action research knowledge generation within that specific context. Secondly, it delves into the sociodrama method, emphasizing its compatibility with both the fundamental elements and the core principles of action research. Lastly, the study presents various project outcomes, categorized based on their focus: direct effects on individuals and groups, actions and action plans implemented at the group and institutional levels, and identified issues concerning the institutional and cultural context.
Educating architecture students on precast: Employing additive manufacturing to recreate historic precast facades
Authors: Emami Niloufar
Published: June 2024

This paper argues that computational design coupled with additive manufacturing (AM) holds the potential to transform precast façade design and construction. Computational design empowers the creation of intricate façade forms, while AM facilitates their fabrication. In two distinct ways, AM is poised to disrupt precast construction: firstly, through 3D printed formworks (3DPF), and secondly, by employing AM to produce the positive reference pieces for mold making. This paper’s focus lies on the latter method, particularly within an educational context. It reviews a novel pedagogical approach that was implemented in a design studio at Illinois School of Architecture. This pedagogy bridges the past and the future by reinterpreting historical projects and reimagining them using today’s advanced technologies. The incorporation of historic precedents into education implies a practical approach to design thinking, especially in mold design and fabrication. The outcomes highlight the intersection of established construction knowledge with emerging digital fabrication techniques.
Accelerating progress towards eradicating child labour (SDG8.7) with quality education (SDG4): School quality is linked to reduced child cocoa labour in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Wortsman Brooke , Bhattacharya Jasodhara , Lim Joshua , Tanoh Fabrice , Shaheen Shamina , Ogan Amy , Jasińska Kaja
Published: June 2024

Child labour disrupts education, but there is scant research on the reciprocal relationship: education disrupting child labour. We examined the link between school quality and child cocoa agricultural work in a sample of 2168 fifth-grade children from forty-one primary schools in rural Côte d’Ivoire. Children attending a higher quality school were less likely to work on a cocoa plantation. Specifically, quality infrastructure and teaching materials were associated with reduced cocoa agricultural activities, but not with domestic and economic activities. Against the backdrop of a global focus on improving education quality, we suggest that investments in quality education may serve the dual purpose of reducing child labour alongside improving children’s learning outcomes.
Meta-analysis of etrolizumab versus placebo in ulcerative colitis: safety and efficacy outcomes
Authors: Zhang Rui , Jia Ziran , Piao Yingshi
Published: June 2024

Background:

The existing body of scientific literature offers inconclusive findings on the safety and therapeutic effectiveness of etrolizumab (ETR) for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Objectives:

The goal of this meta-analysis is to furnish a comprehensive synthesis of evidence that evaluates the safety and therapeutic effects of ETR in the management of UC.

Design:

Meta-analysis.

Data sources and methods:

PubMed, Embase, and Web of science were searched to collect relevant English studies, and the reference lists of eligible studies were manually searched to avoid missing any eligible studies. Outcome measures encompassed clinical response, incidence of adverse events, histological remission, endoscopic remission, endoscopic improvement, and antidrug antibodies. Relevant data were extracted by two independent investigators.

Results:

The meta-analysis incorporated five eligible studies, involving a total of 1528 patients, with 1015 treated with ETR and 513 with placebo. The pooled analysis indicates that ETR is both effective and safe. The adverse event rates, endoscopic and histological response, as well as overall remission were comparable between the two groups. The monoclonal antibody group had a lower incidence rate of adverse reactions than the placebo group [odds ratio (OR): 0.81; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.63–1.03; p = 0.09)]. Clinical response was higher in the ETR group than in the placebo group (OR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.20–2.02; p = 0.0009), and endoscopic improvement was more favorable in the ETR group (OR: 1.88; 95% CI: 1.45–2,45; p < 0.00001). A higher rate of endoscopic remission was found in the ETR group than in the placebo group (OR: 2.48; 95% CI: 1.75–3.50; p < 0.00001); histological remission was significantly higher in the ETR group than in the placebo group (OR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.55–2.86; p < 0.00001). The placebo group had a lower rate of positive antidrug antibodies (OR: 1.31; 95% CI: 0.79–2.17; p < 0.29), and the incidence of complications was significantly higher in the ETR group compared with the placebo group (OR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.48–2.83; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Given the heterogeneity and potential biases in the included studies, gastroenterologists should cautiously tailor drug delivery strategies based on their clinical experience and the unique needs of individual patients.

PROSPERO registration:

CRD42023396100
Magnetoencephalography for the pediatric population, indications, acquisition and interpretation for the clinician
Authors: Dmytriw Adam A , Hadjinicolaou Aristides , Ntolkeras Georgios , Tamilia Eleonora , Pesce Matthew , Berto Laura F , Grant P Ellen , Pang Elizabeth , Ahtam Banu
Published: June 2024

Magnetoencephalography (MEG) is an imaging technique that enables the assessment of cortical activity via direct measures of neurophysiology. It is a non-invasive and passive technique that is completely painless. MEG has gained increasing prominence in the field of pediatric neuroimaging. This dedicated review article for the pediatric population summarizes the fundamental technical and clinical aspects of MEG for the clinician. We discuss methods tailored for children to improve data quality, including child-friendly MEG facility environments and strategies to mitigate motion artifacts. We provide an in-depth overview on accurate localization of neural sources and different analysis methods, as well as data interpretation. The contemporary platforms and approaches of two quaternary pediatric referral centers are illustrated, shedding light on practical implementations in clinical settings. Finally, we describe the expanding clinical applications of MEG, including its pivotal role in presurgical evaluation of epilepsy patients, presurgical mapping of eloquent cortices (somatosensory and motor cortices, visual and auditory cortices, lateralization of language), its emerging relevance in autism spectrum disorder research and potential future clinical applications, and its utility in assessing mild traumatic brain injury. In conclusion, this review serves as a comprehensive resource of clinicians as well as researchers, offering insights into the evolving landscape of pediatric MEG. It discusses the importance of technical advancements, data acquisition strategies, and expanding clinical applications in harnessing the full potential of MEG to study neurological conditions in the pediatric population.
Supporting patients with a mental health diagnosis to use online services in primary care. A qualitative interview study
Authors: Parsons Jo , Abel Gary , Bryce Carol , Campbell John , Newbould Jennifer , Pitchforth Emma , Stockwell Stephanie , Treadgold Bethan , Winder Rachel , Atherton Helen
Published: June 2024

Objective

The increase in reliance on online services for general practice has the potential to increase inequalities within some populations. Patients with a mental health condition are one such group. Digital facilitation is defined as a range of processes, procedures, and people, which seek to support NHS patients in using online services. This study aimed to examine the views and experiences of digital facilitation in primary care amongst patients living with a mental health condition.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients living with a mental health condition, recruited from general practices across England participating in the Di-Facto study. Thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts.

Results

Interviews were conducted with ten participants with a mental health condition, recruited from five general practices. Three themes were identified: (1) familiarity with online services; (2) experiences of those using online services; (3) the need for digital facilitation. The need for digital facilitation was identified in the registration for online services, and in trusting online services.

Conclusions

Online services offer convenience for patients, but registration for the use of such services remains a potential area of difficulty. Participants had difficulties with registering for online services and had concerns about trust in using them. Support offered by general practices in using online services needs to be varied and adaptable to meet the needs of individual patients.
A control system model of capability-opportunity-motivation and behaviour (COM-B) framework for sedentary and physical activity behaviours
Authors: Daryabeygi-Khotbehsara Reza , Dunstan David W. , Shariful Islam Sheikh Mohammed , Rhodes Ryan E. , Hojjatinia Sahar , Abdelrazek Mohamed , Hekler Eric , Markides Brittany , Maddison Ralph
Published: June 2024

Objective

Theoretical frameworks are essential for understanding behaviour change, yet their current use is inadequate to capture the complexity of human behaviour such as physical activity. Real-time and big data analytics can assist in the development of more testable and dynamic models of current theories. To transform current behavioural theories into more dynamic models, it is recommended that researchers adopt principles such as control systems engineering. In this article, we aim to describe a control system model of capability-opportunity-motivation and behaviour (COM-B) framework for reducing sedentary behaviour (SB) and increasing physical activity (PA) in adults.

Methods

The COM-B model is explained in terms of control systems. Examples of effective behaviour change techniques (BCTs) (e.g. goal setting, problem-solving and social support) for reducing SB and increasing PA were mapped to the COM-B model for illustration.

Result

A fluid analogy of the COM-B system is presented.

Conclusions

The proposed integrated model will enable empirical testing of individual behaviour change components (i.e. BCTs) and contribute to the optimisation of digital behaviour change interventions.
Digitally managing depression: A fully remote randomised attention-placebo controlled trial
Authors: Kandola Aaron , Edwards Kyra , Muller Marie AE , Dührkoop Bettina , Hein Bettina , Straatman Joris , Hayes Joseph F
Published: June 2024

Background

Depression is a common and disabling condition. Digital apps may augment or facilitate care, particularly in under-served populations. We tested the efficacy of juli, a digital self-management app for depression in a fully remote randomised controlled trial.

Methods

A pragmatic randomised controlled trial that included participants aged > 18 who self-identified as having depression and scored > 5 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-8. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive juli for 8 weeks or a limited attention-placebo control app. Our primary outcome was the difference in Patient Health Questionnaire-8 scores at 8 weeks. Secondary outcomes were remission, minimal clinically important difference, worsening of depression, and health-related quality of life. Analyses were per-protocol (primary), and modified and full intention-to-treat (secondary). The trial was registered at ISRCTN (ISRCTN12329547).

Results

Between May 2021 and January 2023, we randomised 908 participants. 662 completed the week 2 outcome assessment and were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis, and 456 completed the week 8 outcome assessments (per-protocol). In the per-protocol analysis, the juli group had a greater reduction in Patient Health Questionnaire-8 score (10.78, standard deviation 6.26) than the control group (11.88, standard deviation 5.73) by week 8 (baseline adjusted β-coefficient −0.94, 95% CI: −1.87 to −0.22, p = 0.045). Achieving remission and a minimal clinically important difference was more likely in the juli group at 8 weeks (adjusted odds ratios 2.22, 95% CI: 1.45–3.39, p < 0.001 and 1.56, 95% CI: 1.08–2.27, p = 0.018, respectively). There were no between-group differences in health-related quality of life or worsening of depression. Modified and full intention-to-treat analyses found similar results, but the primary outcome was non-significant.

Conclusion

The use of juli for 8 weeks resulted in a small reduction in symptoms of depression compared with an attention-placebo control. The juli app is a digital self-management tool that could increase the accessibility of evidence-based depression treatments.
The Hague Convention and Its Impact on Women’s Rights and Children’s Rights: An Indian Perspective
Authors: Kowitz Prayathna
Published: June 2024

The aim of this article is to critically examine the universalisation of treaties such as the Hague Convention to highlight the tension it brings out between women’s rights and children’s rights by blindsiding gender-related issues and cultural realities. Written in the context of Ariha Shah in Germany and the Bhattacharya case in Norway, this article aims to map the landscape of international child abduction and repatriation attempts by parents in India, as well as the Indian legislative attempt to tackle the issue of abduction through the draft of the Civil Aspects of International Parental Abduction Bill, 2016 . Viewed critically through a child rights perspective, the article considers whether the positioning of the Abduction Bill from a feminist viewpoint does justice to the agency of children involved, and makes recommendations on how their position can be strengthened further.
The Locations of Palestine and the U.S. in the Global Map of Homelessness: Part 2
Authors: Tanous Osama , Hagopian Amy
Published: June 2024

It's now well appreciated that social determinants of health are the strongest predictors of our health and well-being. A good argument could be made that housing is at the top of the pyramid of these determinants. And, surprisingly, housing is also the social determinant that could rapidly turn on a dime–that is, with sufficient political will, creating access to housing could be radically expanded in short order. (Unfortunately, of course, it's true one can also become suddenly homeless, since few protections exist in policy or capitalist economies to prevent it). That alone sets it apart from social factors such as education and racism–conditions that take a long time to change. In contrast to long-term interventions (education) or culturally stubborn and historically rooted problems (racism), housing is rapidly malleable. In this article, we describe the social condition of homelessness in two settings, comparing and contrasting the concepts, causes, and consequences, along with how people are mobilizing to challenge the conditions that create their housing insecurity. As we review the factors that create housing conditions in each setting, we propose some universal international principles for a new approach to the human right of decent and secure housing.
The role of interleukin-10 receptor alpha (IL10Rα) in Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infection of a mammary epithelial cell line
Authors: Fong Aisha , Rochus Christina M. , Shandilya Umesh K. , Muniz Maria M.M. , Sharma Ankita , Schenkel Flavio S. , Karrow Niel A. , Baes Christine F.
Published: June 2024

Background

Johne’s disease is a chronic wasting disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP). Johne’s disease is highly contagious and MAP infection in dairy cattle can eventually lead to death. With no available treatment for Johne’s disease, genetic selection and improvements in management practices could help reduce its prevalence. In a previous study, the gene coding interleukin-10 receptor subunit alpha (IL10Rα) was associated with Johne’s disease in dairy cattle. Our objective was to determine how IL10Rα affects the pathogenesis of MAP by examining the effect of a live MAP challenge on a mammary epithelial cell line (MAC-T) that had IL10Rα knocked out using CRISPR/cas9. The wild type and the IL10Rα knockout MAC-T cell lines were exposed to live MAP bacteria for 72 h. Thereafter, mRNA was extracted from infected and uninfected cells. Differentially expressed genes were compared between the wild type and the IL10Rα knockout cell lines. Gene ontology was performed based on the differentially expressed genes to determine which biological pathways were involved.

Results

Immune system processes pathways were targeted to determine the effect of IL10Rα on the response to MAP infection. There was a difference in immune response between the wild type and IL10Rα knockout MAC-T cell lines, and less difference in immune response between infected and not infected IL10Rα knockout MAC-T cells, indicating IL10Rα plays an important role in the progression of MAP infection. Additionally, these comparisons allowed us to identify other genes involved in inflammation-mediated chemokine and cytokine signalling, interleukin signalling and toll-like receptor pathways.

Conclusions

Identifying differentially expressed genes in wild type and ILR10α knockout MAC-T cells infected with live MAP bacteria provided further evidence that IL10Rα contributes to mounting an immune response to MAP infection and allowed us to identify additional potential candidate genes involved in this process. We found there was a complex immune response during MAP infection that is controlled by many genes.
Gut resistome linked to sexual preference and HIV infection
Authors: Rubio Garcia Elisa , Casadellà Maria , Parera Mariona , Vila Jordi , Paredes Roger , Noguera-Julian Marc
Published: June 2024

Background

People living with HIV (PLWH) are at increased risk of acquisition of multidrug resistant organisms due to higher rates of predisposing factors. The gut microbiome is the main reservoir of the collection of antimicrobial resistance determinants known as the gut resistome. In PLWH, changes in gut microbiome have been linked to immune activation and HIV-1 associated complications. Specifically, gut dysbiosis defined by low microbial gene richness has been linked to low Nadir CD4 + T-cell counts. Additionally, sexual preference has been shown to strongly influence gut microbiome composition in PLWH resulting in different Prevotella or Bacteroides enriched enterotypes, in MSM (men-who-have–sex-with-men) or no-MSM, respectively. To date, little is known about gut resistome composition in PLWH due to the scarcity of studies using shotgun metagenomics. The present study aimed to detect associations between different microbiome features linked to HIV-1 infection and gut resistome composition.

Results

Using shotgun metagenomics we characterized the gut resistome composition of 129 HIV-1 infected subjects showing different HIV clinical profiles and 27 HIV-1 negative controls from a cross-sectional observational study conducted in Barcelona, Spain. Most no-MSM showed a Bacteroides-enriched enterotype and low microbial gene richness microbiomes. We did not identify differences in resistome diversity and composition according to HIV-1 infection or immune status. However, gut resistome was more diverse in MSM group, Prevotella-enriched enterotype and gut micorbiomes with high microbial gene richness compared to no-MSM group, Bacteroides-enriched enterotype and gut microbiomes with low microbial gene richness. Additionally, gut resistome beta-diversity was different according to the defined groups and we identified a set of differentially abundant antimicrobial resistance determinants based on the established categories.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal a significant correlation between gut resistome composition and various host variables commonly associated with gut microbiome, including microbiome enterotype, microbial gene richness, and sexual preference. These host variables have been previously linked to immune activation and lower Nadir CD4 + T-Cell counts, which are prognostic factors of HIV-related comorbidities. This study provides new insights into the relationship between antibiotic resistance and clinical characteristics of PLWH.
Application of a new designed high resolution melting analysis for mycobacterial species identification
Authors: Khosravi Azar Dokht , Meghdadi Hossein , Hashemzadeh Mohammad , Alami Ameneh , Tabandeh Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2024

The Non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) isolates should be distinguished from tuberculosis and identified at the species level for choosing an appropriate treatment plan. In this study, two molecular methods were used to differentiate NTM species, including a new designed High Resolution Melting (HRM) and Multilocus Sequence Analysis (MLSA). Seventy-five mycobacterial isolates were evaluated by sequencing four genes ( MLSA) and a HRM assay specifically targeting atpE was designed to rapidly and accurately identify and differentiate mycobacterium species. Out of 70 NTM isolates, 66 (94.3%), 65 (92.9%), 65 (92.9%) and 64 (91.4%) isolates were identified to the species level by PCR of atpE, tuf, rpoB and dnaK genes. We could identify 100% of the isolates to the species level (14 different species) by MLSA. By using HRM assay, all NTM isolates were identified and classified into eight groups, in addition, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Nocardia were also detected simultaneously. The MLSA technique was able to differentiate all 14 species of NTM isolates. According to the results, the HRM assay is a rapid and beneficial method for identifying NTM, M. tuberculosis (MTB), and Nocardia isolates without sequencing.
Analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block with or without rectus sheath block in laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Yoon Jung-Pil , Kim Hee Young , Jung Jieun , Lee Jimin , Park Seyeon , Byeon Gyeong-Jo
Published: June 2024

Background

Ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is commonly used for pain control in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. However, significant pain persists, affecting patient recovery and sleep quality on the day of surgery. We compared the analgesic effect of ultrasound-guided TAP block with or without rectus sheath (RS) block in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy using the visual analog scale (VAS) scores.

Methods

The study was registered before patient enrollment at the Clinical Research Information Service (registration number: KCT0006468, 19/08/2021). 88 American Society of Anesthesiologist physical status I-III patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy were divided into two groups. RS-TAP group received right lateral and right subcostal TAP block, and RS block with 0.2% ropivacaine (30 mL); Bi-TAP group received bilateral and right subcostal TAP block with same amount of ropivacaine. The primary outcome was visual analogue scale (VAS) for 48 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included the use of rescue analgesics, cumulative intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) consumption, patient satisfaction, sleep quality, and incidence of adverse events.

Results

There was no significant difference in VAS score between two groups for 48 h postoperatively. We found no difference between the groups in any of the secondary outcomes: the use of rescue analgesics, consumption of IV-PCA, patient satisfaction with postoperative pain control, sleep quality, and the incidence of postoperative adverse events.

Conclusion

Both RS-TAP and Bi-TAP blocks provided clinically acceptable pain control in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy, although there was no significant difference between two combination blocks in postoperative analgesia or sleep quality.