bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with severe diabetic ketoacidosis in patients diagnosed with type 1 diabetes: a decade-long cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Taieb Ach , Hela Ghali , Salsabil Achour , Asma Gorchane , Koussay Ach
Published: October 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with severe diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at the onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in adult patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis over a 10-year period including adults newly diagnosed with T1DM. Eligible participants were diagnosed with DKA at the time of T1DM diagnosis. DKA severity was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe. Data were collected on age, body mass index, family history of diabetes and autoimmune disorders, lifestyle habits, delayed diagnosis, and preceding factors.

Results

A total of 305 participants (69.8% men) with T1DM were included. Overall, 63 patients were admitted with severe DKA (Group 1) and 242 with non-severe DKA (Group 2). Factors associated with severe DKA at diagnosis of T1DM were a long period between symptom onset and first hospitalization, preceding infection, tachypnea, thrombocytopenia, anemia, hepatic cytolysis, polyuria, and tachycardia.

Conclusions

The present findings highlight the need for improving awareness about diabetes symptoms among physicians and the public to reduce the occurrence and severity of DKA at the onset of T1DM.
Institutions and their failure to care: Bureaucracy and the practice of emotion
Authors: Barclay Katie , Moore Vivienne
Published: October 2024

Any study of radical care needs to pay attention to the institution as a place of care. Yet, institutions have been more readily associated with failures of care than successes. We undertake close reading of the Ockenden Review of maternity services in a National Health Service hospital trust in England, concerning a large number of families that received inadequate care during pregnancy and birth, including investigations of adverse outcomes such as deaths of babies and mothers. We argue that to enable better care in the institution requires a close attention to its institutional nature, particularly its scale, bureaucratic mode and functions, and the professional identities that work within it, and the ways they shape the practice of emotion.
Investigation on the influence of mesoscale geometric features on the surface white layer characteristics in titanium alloy milling using ball end mills
Authors: Tong Xin , Zhang Hao , Qu Qiang
Published: October 2024

A white layer will be generated on the machined surface when milling titanium alloy. Its existence will make the surface of the workpiece more brittle, and it is easy to produce cracks during the machining process, which greatly harms machining. Aiming at this problem, this paper takes the ball-end milling cutter with mesoscopic geometric characteristics as the research object, establishes the theoretical model of the white layer thickness of the workpiece under the micro-texture and cutting edge factors, analyzes the single factor of micro-texture parameters and cutting edge parameters, and the interaction between them and cutting parameters on the milling force-thermal characteristics and the white layer of the workpiece. The influence law reveals its mechanism from the macro and micro perspectives. It uses the white layer thickness as the evaluation index to optimize the mesoscopic geometric characteristic parameters by using the simulated annealing algorithm. The results demonstrate that the mesoscopic geometric feature of the ball-end milling cutter effectively reduces the thickness of the white layer, achieving a 38% reduction compared to that observed with a non-textured milling cutter. The thickness of the white layer exhibits a positive correlation with the distance L from the blade and a negative correlation with the edge radius R. The interaction between the cutting edge radius R and the cutting depth a p influences the milling force and heat, alters the micro-texture of the workpiece surface, induces the α  + β phase transformation, and affects the white layer thickness. Based on the predictive model for white layer thickness, the optimization results for comprehensive milling performance are as follows: R is 59.39 μm, L is 110.01 μm, D is 58.68 μm, L1 is 130.59 μm, a p is 0.30 mm, V is 147.39 mm/min, f is 0.08 mm/z.
Research on fault diagnosis of mechanical component in high-speed train based on one-dimensional convolutional block residual channel attention
Authors: Li Xinliang , Zhang Wan , Ding Yu , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: October 2024

The yaw damper and the rolling bearing are key components to ensure the safe and reliable operation of high-speed trains. However, fault identification in these components remains challenging, with traditional feature extraction methods often suffering from low diagnostic accuracy. To address these issues, a one-dimensional convolutional block residual channel attention (1DCBRCA) method for fault diagnosis of high-speed train components is introduced. Firstly, the convolutional layer is constructed for feature extraction, and the convolution block attention module is utilized for adaptive feature optimization in both channel and space dimensions. Subsequently, a residual neural network model is established, with channel attention added after each residual block to focus on critical feature information, which is used for adjusting the weight parameters. Furthermore, the proposed method was validated through damper fault experiments and bearing fault experiments. Comparative analysis with state-of-the-art methods demonstrated that the proposed 1DCBRCA approach achieves higher diagnostic accuracy, confirming its potential to enhance fault diagnosis in high-speed train components.
Research on the structural performance and fatigue life analysis of commercial vehicle stabilizer bars
Authors: Yin Changcheng , Deng Xian , Geng Guangrui , Yuan Hui
Published: October 2024

The stabilizer bar is a crucial component of the car suspension, and its fatigue failure can significantly compromise the safety of driving. To verify whether the stabilizer bar meets the target fatigue life. This paper initially constructs a finite element model of the lateral stabilizer bar, computes the maximum Mises stress at critical sections, and formulates the stress at these points using mechanical principles. The theoretical results validate the effectiveness of the finite element model. Subsequently, the lateral stiffness of the stabilizer bar is calculated, and its accuracy under vertical load is validated using stiffness bench tests. Based on this, the rain flow matrix for one test cycle within the mixed segment of the test site is converted into a single-amplitude sine wave with a constant frequency using the equal damage method. Subsequently, bench fatigue tests and fatigue simulation analyses were conducted separately to determine the test and simulation lifespans under sinusoidal loads. The accuracy of fatigue simulation analysis was verified by comparing the test and simulation life. Random loads from road tests were utilized as input for the fatigue simulation, predicting the fatigue life of the stabilizer bar. This paper employs a combination of fatigue finite element analysis and fatigue testing to predict the fatigue life of stabilizer bars. This fatigue prediction scheme that combines finite element analysis and experimentation can be extended to other component systems, thereby shortening the development cycle of new products.
Unraveling the environmental Kuznets curve: The influence of economic diversity, energy efficiency, and industrial dynamics on carbon emissions in developing economies
Authors: Ghazal Reza , Karimi Mohammad Sharif , Khezri Mohsen , Javaheri Bakhtiar , Bilan Yuriy
Published: October 2024

A new path of economic development among emerging and developing nations has a distinct impact on the environment than seen in the past. The current study attempts to examine how these growth patterns in the developing world have impacted the degradation of the environment. This study contends that merely considering GDP per capita and the proportion of manufacturing in GDP fails to encapsulate the complete growth dynamics of developing and emerging countries. Consequently, such an approach does not adequately reflect the impacts of environmental degradation. As a result, the economic complexity index (ECI) is introduced to the model to reflect the full effects of new growth trajectories on CO2 emissions by using the Panel Fully Modified OLS (PFMOLS) model of 67 emerging and developing countries during 1996–2020. The results indicate that the complexity of developing and emerging economies, on the one hand, raises CO2 emissions, likely through expanding economic activities (the scale effect). Moreover, ECI reduces CO2 emissions by moving the economy toward more high-tech and environmentally friendly technologies and industries and favorable changes in the energy mix (the efficiency effect). Overall, the empirical outcomes emphasize that the final impact of ECI on the environment was negative in most samples, indicating an improving impact of economic complexity on environmental degradation, reflecting that the “efficiency effect” outweighed the “scale effect.” The findings imply that technology and knowledge transfer are essential for energy efficiency and sustainability.
Challenges for the legislation enabling egg donation in Switzerland
Authors: Martani Andrea , Neeser Nathalie , Vulliemoz Nicolas , Pennings Guido
Published: October 2024

Switzerland is one of the most restrictive countries in Europe when it comes to the regulation of egg donation in medically assisted reproduction (MAR). Indeed, even after the introduction of modifications to the law regulating reproductive medicine allowing embryo culture, embryo freezing, and preimplantation genetic testing, egg donation has remained completely forbidden. The absolute ban on egg donation is heavily discussed in academia, society, and politics. After many failed attempts, this prohibition is now on its way to be lifted, after agreement was reached in the legislative institutions. The forthcoming legalisation of egg donation raises, however, several questions on how some aspects of this practice will be regulated. In this contribution, we briefly review the reasons why a ban on egg donation has been present for so long in Switzerland, to then analyse two issues raised by the commitment to lift this ban. First, we reflect on the question of whether the new legislation should introduce chronological age limits for access to heterologous MAR. Second, we consider how the practice of egg sharing could be regulated once egg donation is legal.
Healthcare Utilization in Pediatric Cancer Patients Near the End-of-Life
Authors: Kelly James P. , Runco Daniel V. , Slaven James E. , Niehaus Jason Z.
Published: October 2024

Objective: Describe the healthcare utilization in the last 60 days of life in pediatric patients with cancer who died at home under hospice care and those that died in the hospital. Methods: Retrospective chart review of the medical records of those children with cancer diagnosis with palliative care consult and died either under hospice care at home or in the hospital. Results: Patients dying under hospice care spent a median of 44 days at home. Patients dying in the hospital spent a median of 30.5 days in the hospital, 10.5 days in the intensive care unit, and underwent 3.5 procedures requiring anesthesia. 45% of those that died in the hospital were compassionately extubated. Conclusion: For those dying with a cancer diagnosis, hospice care can allow for significant time at home with minimal healthcare while those dying in the hospital do spend a significant time in the hospital. This provides more information to both providers and families about end-of-life healthcare utilization.
Event-driven predefined-time practical consensus for multi-agent systems
Authors: Fu Lu , Chen Xia , Guo Xiaoya
Published: October 2024

In this work, we explore the predefined-time practical consensus problem for integrator-type multi-agent systems by event-driven control. Based on a time base generator (TBG), a new type of event-driven control inputs and event-driven conditions are proposed for each agent, which are more general than the existing results. Under such control scheme, the agents are able to reach practical consensus at a completely predefined time. We provide the predefined-time practical consensus analysis of the closed-loop system by introducing a novel Lyapunov-based sufficient condition for predefined-time stability proposed in this paper. Furthermore, we give the proof of Zeno-freeness for each time instant. Lastly, a numerical example is presented to demonstrate the reliability of the derived results.
Study on wear state of ultrasonic-assisted grinding of glass-ceramics with diamond tools based on DBO-BiLSTM
Authors: Zhang Wenchao , Cui Enming
Published: October 2024

With the development of precision manufacturing technology, diamond tools play a vital role in industrial machining because of their high hardness and excellent wear resistance. However, tool wear can seriously affect machining accuracy and efficiency. In order to ensure the efficient and high-quality machining, it is of paramount importance to monitor the state of the tools used with the utmost accuracy. First, the fixed area of the diamond tool after machining was observed. The ratio of the number of abrasive particles falling off and the presence of scratches in the matrix were used as the evaluation indexes of the wear state of the diamond tool. The vibration signal was used as a monitoring signal to identify the wear state of the diamond tools. To obtain a feature set sensitive to the tool wear state, the vibration signal was analyzed in the time domain, frequency domain, and wavelet packet. The dimensionality of the sensitive feature set is reduced through the application of principal component analysis (PCA). The tool wear state was identified using the dung beetle optimizer bidirectional long short-term memory (DBO-BiLSTM) model and the bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) model. The results demonstrate that the DBO-BiLSTM has a higher accuracy in wear state identification, showing an improvement of 10.05% over the BiLSTM. Moreover, optimizing feature dimension reduction can enhance the model’s identification accuracy.
Penal Protection Orders and Intimate Partner Violence in the Netherlands: An Application of the Empowerment Process Model
Authors: Cleven Irma W. M.
Published: October 2024

This study analyzed the experiences of 20 survivors of violence by partners with penal protection orders (POs) issued against them to explore the extent to which, how, and when POs (dis)empower. The results show that the extent to which POs result in survivors’ enhanced sense of safety and ability to move on with their lives is dependent on specific circumstances and the PO impact on their sense of self-efficacy, including whether they obtain PO-related knowledge, report violations, refrain from contact with the ex-partner, and expect and received support from the criminal justice system and others. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Perceptions on e-service-learning: active methodology to connect pre-service teachers and society / Percepción sobre e-aprendizaje y servicio: metodología activa para conectar los estudiantes de Magisterio con la sociedad
Authors: de-la-Peña Cristina , Luque-Rojas María-Jesús , Chaves-Yuste Beatriz
Published: October 2024

E-service-learning is a pedagogical methodology that promotes social awareness in higher education classrooms. The main objective of this study is to study undergraduate students’ acquisition, from a real and practical 100% online perspective, of the competencies in different subjects by providing the community with educational reading and writing resources designed by themselves to work literacy. 161 university students ( M = 23.02; SD = 4.78) from the Faculty of Education created digital tools that addressed the preschool teachers’ needs of two educational institutions. Forty-nine digital resources for literacy were created by undergraduate students. Results showed satisfaction of all the groups involved in the e-SL project; regarding undergraduate students, the experimentation improved the perception of the connection between the theoretical and practical contents taught, motivation and learning. Extreme e-SL or 100% online is an effective pedagogical methodology that academically develops citizens committed to society without geographical limitations.
Neuro-modelling and fuzzy logic control of a two-wheeled wheelchair system
Authors: Nasir NIzaruddin M. , Ghani Nor Maniha Abdul , Nasir Ahmad Nor Kasruddin , Ahmad Mohd Ashraf , Tokhi Mohammad Osman
Published: October 2024

Two-wheeled wheelchairs have been used as alternatives for the elderly and disabled people to perform physical activities due to their restriction of movement. Significant challenges posed by two-wheeled wheelchairs control due to their inherent instability, resembling that inverted pendulum system. This research addresses these challenges by developing a dynamic non-linear model and stability control using computational algorithms. A neural network-based Nonlinear Autoregressive model with Exogenous Inputs (NARX) was developed, capturing and behaving similar to the complex dynamics of the wheelchair system with the identification on the experimental input–output data. Ensuring stable and responsive control, design of optimized PD-type and PID-type fuzzy logic controllers using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) were established and were tested under a simulation environment. The performance was evaluated across various metrics, including Integral Squared Error (ISE), Integral Absolute Error (IAE), Mean Squared (MSE), and Integral Time Absolute Error (ITAE). The result demonstrates that the PSO Optimized PID-type fuzzy logic controller with scaling factor from MSE index performance come out as best overall, significantly outperforms PD-type fuzzy logic controller, reducing its settling time by 12.5% to 35 s, minimizing overshoot to 0.81°, and achieving a negligible steady-state error of 0.046%. These results highlight the significant of integrating fuzzy logic control and PSO to the neural network model in enhancing the stability and performance of two-wheeled wheelchair systems, offering user safety and comfort.
Editorial: Old gods, new world: Theoretical advances in the marketization and the consumption of religion
Authors: Rauf Ateeq Abdul , Appau Samuelson , Prasad Ajnesh
Published: October 2024

In this editorial on the special issue of the contemporary consumption of religion, we unpack the spectrum of continuity and changes in the theorization of the consumption and function of religion in marketing and consumer research. We explain how the papers in this special issue extend theory by bringing new answers to old and new questions, and still leave us with many new questions for future research.
Problem-Solving Courts for Children, Do They Work? Perspectives of Youth Justice Practitioners in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Walsh Tamara , Beilby Jane , Lim Phylicia , Cornwell Lucy
Published: October 2024

It is widely accepted that legal responses to criminal offending by children should be based on the principle of ‘minimal intervention and maximum diversion’. Criminal law processing can increase a child’s chances of ongoing contact with the criminal law system; however, there is limited research about what effect a court appearance has on a young person’s trajectory. In Australia, formal criminal courts retain decision-making authority in youth justice matters, rather than restorative panels or tribunals, although some children’s courts have adopted problem-solving programmes on an ad hoc basis. We interviewed 46 youth justice practitioners in Queensland, Australia, to gather their perspectives on the use of problem-solving approaches in children’s criminal courts. Somewhat surprisingly, most participants did not consider problem-solving courts to be appropriate for children. Instead, they emphasised the need to deliver services to children outside the court system, recommending increased interagency collaboration, and liaison and diversion services.
Indigenous community level strengths for the promotion of wellbeing
Authors: Peter Evon Taa’ąįį , Apok Charlene Aqpik , Ullrich Jessica Saniguq , Black Jessica
Published: October 2024

As Alaska Native scholars, we share a short essay about lessons learned from a project that addresses suicide within rural Alaska Native communities. From this experience we provide a brief overview of the research study and explain why it is so important to (1) remain authentically engaged in Indigenous relationality, (2) center strengths-based approaches, and (3) focus on community level protective factors within research. From this work, we have learned that the way we address community concerns, and reveal community solutions plays a substantive role in ensuring the transference of Indigenous values, knowledge, practices and skills to younger generations that help them to have a strong sense of identity and belonging. We have also learned that research can serve to deepen our understanding of Indigenous relationality in real time and contribute to positive health and wellbeing among our communities at multiple levels. We hope to inspire others to think about and shift their approach to research within Indigenous communities so that we can collectively achieve the outcomes we desire.
‘Who Gives You the Power to Get Wealth’: Economics and the Hebrew Bible in the Past Decade
Authors: Noya Ludwig Beethoven J.
Published: October 2024

This article presents an overview of scholarship related to the economy in Hebrew Bible studies, focusing particularly on scholarship published in the past decade (2013–2023). For the scholarship before this past decade, please see Nam’s excellent survey on the topic in Portrayals of Economic Exchange in the Book of Kings (2012: 17–70) and in ‘Economics and the Bible’ (2013). The article has three sections. The first explores recent discussions on various models proposed to understand the economic situation of the world behind the Hebrew Bible. The second outlines recent discussions on the components of production; namely, land access, labor relations, and the role of debt in connecting the two. The third and final section surveys scholarship on two interrelated elements responsible for the flow of resources: temple and royal administration.
Natural lighting production method using minimum spectral information for each light source
Authors: Oh ST , Lim JH
Published: October 2024

In construction and lighting, efforts are being made to develop natural lighting for a healthy light environment. Developing lighting with natural light characteristics requires highly correct natural light characteristic data, a light source that can realise it and detailed control technology. However, most lighting manufacturers that do not meet these technical requirements have difficulties developing lighting that reproduces natural light. Studies on the methods and technologies for controlling natural light data and lighting are insufficient. This paper proposes a manufacturing method using minimum spectral information for each LED light source to develop natural lighting quickly. Firstly, a natural light reproduction control index database for each solar term was set up by analysing natural light. After obtaining the minimum spectral information for the spectral condition under the maximum input current condition for each light source, the optical characteristic control formula was generated through interpolation and combination simulation. Afterward, the input current for each LED channel was calculated and provided through correlated colour temperature (CCT) matching of natural light. In the performance evaluation of two types of experimental lighting with different light source configurations, the CCT cycle of natural light was accurately reproduced within the average error rate of 0.31% and 0.38%.
Never bring a knife to a gunfight? Lethality of weapon use in Dutch homicides
Authors: Krüsselmann Katharina , Aarten Pauline , Liem Marieke
Published: October 2024

Firearm violence is a serious issue in Europe, yet the validity of existing theoretical approaches to weapon use in violent encounters have not been explicitly tested in the European context. This study tested existing hypotheses on weapon use and lethality – the Adversary Effects Hypothesis, the Physical Strength Hypothesis, and the Social Distance Hypothesis – using homicide data from the Netherlands, where detailed data on weapon use in homicide are available. Based on these hypotheses, we expected victim characteristics and the social distance between the victim and perpetrator to affect the modus operandi. However, our results do not align with these expectations when situational control variables are included. We conclude that existing studies on weapon lethality have a limited generalizability due to their assumption of free weapon choice. This is only met in contexts in which legal availability of firearms is high, which is not the case in the Netherlands. In addition, the hypotheses focus too narrowly on victim characteristics, without accounting for the situational factors influencing violent encounters. Based on these insights, we provide suggestions for theoretical and empirical improvements on firearm violence research.
Learning climate and financial incentives: A study on training participation in Dutch organizations
Authors: de Kruijf Björn Johannes , Edzes Arjen , van Dijk Jouke , Waslander Sietske
Published: October 2024

This empirical study investigated the relationship between the learning climate and training participation in Dutch organizations and how subsidies and the sharing of investments in time and costs between employers and employees affect this relationship. Our analyses are based on a survey of a representative sample of 512 organizations with at least five employees in a Dutch region. Respondents replied to five statements to measure the learning climate, while training was measured through participation and intensity. We found that an organization’s learning climate is positively related to participation and intensity of training in terms of hours. However, we observe that the effect of learning climate on the number of hours of training decreases when the employer pays the costs for the training and when the training takes place during working hours. When organizations can use government subsidies, participation in training increases, and the number of hours per participant increases.
Tracing the dynamic ecology of microbial biofilms on steel with prolonged submersion in surface water
Authors: Folens Karel , Mattelin Valérie , Prévoteau Antonin , Stoops Flor , Horvath Joeri , Potters Geert , Baere Kris De , Boon Nico
Published: October 2024

Amplicon sequencing is applied to monitor microbial species residing in the biofilm that formed on steel surface submerged in surface water along the Ghent Terneuzen canal, stretching 31 kms from Belgium to the Netherlands. Temporal and spatial differences in the biofilm microbiota were revealed by 16S rRNA composition analysis. The loss-of-mass from S235 steel coupons showed uniform corrosion rates ranging from 242 to 906 g/m2 after 3 months. Notably, enhanced pitting corrosion was seen at one specific location near ‘Heide’ affecting the surface with depths up to 1210 µm after 6 months. We presume the excessive steel deterioration in micro-cavities is associated with microbial activity of iron-oxidising bacteria (IOB) and sulphur-reducing bacteria (SRB), such as Shewanella spp . and Gallionella spp., respectively, as redox-active species. Indications for microbially induced corrosion (MIC) are highlighted at sites with apt microbial composition, irrespective of physico-chemical water parameters. Coupons affected by high corrosion and assumed MIC did not stand out in terms of species richness and alpha diversity did not increase, suggesting partial take-over of the microbial community by IOB or SRB.
Early and Midterm Outcomes of Chimney Endovascular Aortic Repair for Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Takeuchi Yuriko , Morikage Noriyasu , Sakamoto Ryunosuke , Otsuka Ryo , Ike Soichi , Mizoguchi Takahiro , Samura Makoto , Harada Takasuke , Kurazumi Hiroshi , Suzuki Ryo , Suehiro Kotaro , Hamano Kimikazu
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of endovascular aortic aneurysm repair using a chimney technique (ch-EVAR) with those of the standard EVAR (st-EVAR) for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAA).

Materials and Methods:

We implemented ch-EVAR for juxtarenal RAAA based on obvious anatomical indications after converting the strategy for RAAA from open repair to EVAR. A retrospective, cohort-based study was conducted on patients with RAAA who were treated using EVAR in our hospital between July 2011 and March 2022. EVAR cases were extracted, and outcomes were compared between ch-EVAR and st-EVAR. Patient clinical status, anatomical variables, treatment, and follow-up data were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 56 (82%) and 12 (18%) patients were treated by st-EVAR and ch-EVAR, respectively. Thirty-day mortality rates were comparable between the 2 groups [8.9% in st-EVAR vs 8.3% in ch-EVAR ( p= 0.95)]. Short-term outcomes showed that no type Ia endoleak occurred in either group. Midterm outcomes, including sac enlargement [7.5% in st-EVAR vs 0% in ch-EVAR (p= 0.37)], shrinkage [77.5% in st-EVAR vs 80.0% in ch-EVAR (p= 0.86)], and overall survival and freedom from aneurysm-related reintervention at 3 years [64.7% and 96.4% in the EVAR group vs 91.7% and 100% in the ch-EVAR group, respectively (p= 0.30 and 0.52)], were not significantly different between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Ch-EVAR for RAAA showed remarkably excellent outcomes, comparable to those of st-EVAR. Ch-EVAR is considered technically feasible in experienced centers. The indications for EVAR for RAAA may be further expanded using the chimney technique, resulting in overall improved outcomes for RAAA.

Clinical Impact

This is a retrospective, single-center analysis of 68 patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms (RAAAs) treated by endovascular repair (EVAR) to investigate the efficacy of the chimney technique for juxtarenal RAAA. Thirty-day mortality rate was 8.3% for the chimney EVAR group, which was equivalent to that in the standard EVAR group. Mid-term outcomes including sac enlargement/shrinkage, overall survival, and freedom from aneurysm-related reintervention were comparable between the two groups. This report suggests the possibility of broadening the selection criteria of the current endovascular strategy using the chimney technique.
Most Carpal Tunnel Releases Address Moderate or Severe Median Neuropathy
Authors: Brinkman Niels , Chandler Calvin , Ring David , Vagner Gregg , Reichel Lee
Published: October 2024

Background:

The role of surgery in normal or very mild median neuropathy can be questioned given that surgery in the absence of pathophysiology may offer only nonspecific effects that can be achieved without surgery, which raises ethical concerns. It’s also important to avoid misdiagnosis: given that mild median neuropathy is prevalent and generally well-accommodated, notable symptoms from mild median neuropathy can signal unhelpful thoughts and feelings of distress that are a more pressing health priority.

Methods:

We identified 38 studies that categorized electrodiagnostic (EDX) measured median neuropathy severity among people being evaluated for carpal tunnel syndrome. We converted the different EDX grades used into one general grading classification. The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare the ratio of moderate/severe to mild/normal EDX findings between tests ordered by a surgeon or a nonoperative clinician.

Results:

The median (interquartile range) ratio of moderate/severe to mild/normal EDX findings of median neuropathy at the carpal tunnel was 1.2 (0.91 to 1.8) among tests ordered by nonoperative clinicians and 3.3 (1.5 to 5.3) among tests ordered by surgeons ( P = .0023). Only 4.1% of the patients who had EDX testing ordered by a surgeon had no measurable neuropathy. There were zero patients with normal EDX findings in 10 of the 17 (59%) studies in surgeon practices and in 10 of the 21 (48%) in the practices of nonoperative clinicians.

Conclusions:

The observation that in case series documenting EDX severities of median neuropathy, surgeons are mostly treating and operating on moderate to severe pathophysiology, emphasizes that while mild median neuropathy is highly prevalent it is uncommonly considered for surgery.

Level of evidence:

Level II, Prognostic study.
Utilization and Effectiveness of Pectoralis Minor Tenotomy in the Surgical Management of Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: De Silva Gayan , Ohman J. Westley , Henderson Karen M. , Goestenkors Danita M. , Meyer Richard D. , Thompson Robert W.
Published: October 2024

Background:

Uncertainty exists concerning the optimal utilization and effectiveness of pectoralis minor tenotomy (PMT) in neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS).

Methods:

Between January 2020 and July 2023, 355 patients with NTOS underwent primary surgical treatment. Prospectively collected data were analyzed retrospectively.

Results:

Overall mean patient age was 35.9 ± 1.9 years, 76% were female, and the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score at presentation was 60.3 ± 3.2, reflecting substantial disability. Surgical treatment was based on localized tenderness/symptoms to palpation, with 322 (91%) undergoing combined supraclavicular decompression and PMT (SCD + PMT) and 33 (9%) selected for isolated PMT when findings were solely confined to the subcoracoid space. Mean operative time (29 ± 5 vs 164 ± 9 min, P < .01) and hospital stay (0.3 ± 0.1 vs 4.0 ± 0.2 days, P < .01) were both lower after isolated PMT, with no significant differences in postoperative complications or rehospitalization. During follow-up of 26.7 ± 1.5 months, QuickDASH scores declined by 41.2% ± 2.3% ( P < .0001) and patient-rated outcomes were excellent in 34%, good in 41%, fair in 22%, and poor in 4%. Fewer patients had poor-rated outcomes after SCD + PMT (2%) than after isolated PMT (19%) ( P < .01). Recurrent symptoms requiring supraclavicular reoperation occurred in 16 patients after SCD + PMT (5%) and in 5 patients after isolated PMT (15%) ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

Pectoralis minor tenotomy (PMT) has an important role in surgical treatment of NTOS, mainly as an adjunct in combination with SCD. While highly selected patients can do well after isolated PMT as a short outpatient procedure with rapid recovery, there is a greater potential for poor outcomes and supraclavicular reoperation than after SCD + PMT.
Interviewing as Becoming: Diffractive Analysis of Interviews With South Korean Adolescents on Race and Racism
Authors: Kang Jiyoung , Park Jiae
Published: October 2024

Revisiting task-based interviews from 2016, the authors explore the complexities of doing interviews with a particular emphasis on racial and ethnic issues among South Korean adolescents. The study shows that such interviews can go beyond simple information collection, transforming into an educational experience that addresses often-overlooked issues. Reanalyzing these interview experiences through the lens of Karen Barad’s theory of agential realism, the study illuminates the entanglement of all agencies involved and their collaborative becoming during interviews. By reading diffractively past interview transcripts with this perspective, this study offers new insights into the interview process, highlighting the dynamic intra-actions between human and non-human agents. This viewpoint contests the conventional belief that only humans play an active role in research and challenges the traditional notion of interviews merely serving as data collection tools for the researcher. Consequently, the study highlights the importance of researchers being sensitive and open while navigating the diffraction in intra-actions that are inherent in qualitative interviews.
Development of a human-following scheme using point-voxel RCNN-based 3D human leg detection for the robust human-following of mobile robots in cluttered environments
Authors: Park Jaehong , Jo Jun Hyeong , Moon Chang-bae
Published: October 2024

Mobile robots often follow humans in warehouse environments or indoor office spaces. A mobile robot requires a control system that stably follows humans without colliding with them. A human-following robot is composed of target detection, target tracking, and control. Conventional 2D laser-based human following systems exploit information from 2D planar laser data to detect human legs through machine learning methods, such as support vector data description and random forest. However, in crowded or cluttered environments, 2D LiDAR data is limited by the lack of features that distinguish human legs from obstacles. Due to the lack of features, false-positive detection is a problem in crowded or cluttered environments. Recent studies using 3D LiDAR have used sensors mounted at an elevated height to measure the overall shape of a person to extract features. Typical mobile robots are mounted in the bottom due to the vibration of the sensors, so there is a cost problem that additional sensors are required. We propose a framework for human following using 3D LiDAR. Our method is able to detect human legs using a LiDAR sensor attached at a low position without additional sensors. This study proposes a 3D laser-based human leg detection and tracking framework to improve the robustness of human-following for autonomous mobile robots. With a deep learning-based human leg detector, using the Point-Voxel-RCNN model, the proposed 3D human leg tracking system can help robots robustly follow humans in cluttered and crowded environments. Additionally, we demonstrate the robustness of our method in a practical cluttered environment by comparing the performance of a conventional human leg detection and following system.
Social inequality and news media repertoires in seven MENA countries
Authors: Leuppert Robin , Allagui Ilhem , Klimmt Christoph
Published: October 2024

Social inequality shapes peoples’ chances and strategies to keep informed about current affairs. We study citizens’ news media repertoires – individual patterns of combining selected news media – in a world region of extreme social inequality within and between countries: the Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA). We report a secondary analysis of a large-scale survey in seven MENA countries to develop news user typologies. We explore how digital forces shape news media repertoires to determine the influence of social inequality on the population’s information routines regarding current affairs, and investigate the diversity of the inhabitants’ media repertoires.
Injection treatments for trapeziometacarpal joint arthritis: a network meta-analysis of randomized studies
Authors: Challoumas Dimitris , Rana Varun , Hamad Ali , Putti Amit , Millar Neal L.
Published: October 2024

This network meta-analysis of 13 randomized trials comparing injection treatments for trapeziometacarpal joint arthritis found no robust evidence for any treatment. There is low-quality evidence that corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injections are superior to placebo for mid-term pain.
Hepatocellular carcinoma in HBsAg seroclearance: clinical features, recurrence, and prognosis following curative hepatectomy
Authors: Xu Wei , Gong Huai , Li Bolun , Yin Xinmin
Published: October 2024

Aim:

To explore clinical features and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg)-serocleared patients and identify risk factors associated with postoperative recurrence after curative hepatectomy.

Methods:

Patients who had undergone initial hepatectomy for HCC from January 2010 through December 2022. Clinicopathological data were compared between HBsAg-seropositive and HBsAg-serocleared patients. Furthermore, risk factors associated with early and late postoperative HCC recurrence (early and late recurrences (ER and LR), respectively) were analyzed for HBsAg-serocleared HCC patients treated by curative hepatectomy.

Results:

A total of 2184 consecutive patients undergoing initial hepatectomy for HCC were enrolled, including 339 (15.5%) HBsAg-serocleared and 1845 (84.5%) HBsAg-seropositive cases. Tumor characteristics were comparable between the two groups. After curative hepatectomy, the ER rate was lower in the HBsAg-serocleared group than in the HBsAg-seropositive group (16.2% vs 26.3%; p = 0.000). LR rates in the HBsAg-seropositive and HBsAg-serocleared groups were similar (8.3% vs 6.9%, respectively, p = 0.418). Multivariate analysis showed that among HBsAg-serocleared patients, Hong Kong Liver Cancer stage and microvascular invasion were risk factors associated with postoperative ER, while γ-glutamyl transferase level and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were associated with LR.

Conclusion:

HBsAg-serocleared and HBsAg-seropositive HCC patients exhibited similar tumor characteristics. Curative hepatectomy-treated HBsAg-serocleared HCC patients experienced a lower ER rate and better short-term (⩽3 years) overall survival (OS) rates than their HBsAg-seropositive counterparts. LR, very late recurrence, and long-term (4-, and 5-year) OS rates were similar between the two groups.
Exploring essential features for developing a human resource management mobile application: Insights from the middle east
Authors: Abdeldayem Marwan Mohamed , Aldulaimi Saeed Hameed , Al-Kaabi Hamad
Published: October 2024

This study aims to investigate the key features necessary for the development of a mobile application for human resource management (HRM). It addresses the shortage of empirical studies on digital HRM in the Middle East and emphasizes the increasing importance of HRM mobile applications in the region. The research utilizes qualitative research methods, including the Delphi method, in-depth interviews, literature review, historical analysis, and critical discussion.A qualitative research strategy is employed, analyzing data from 43 HR experts and mobile app development team members from international and local businesses in the UAE and the Kingdom of Bahrain. NVivo software is used for data analysis, encompassing over 120 transcriptions, notes, and academic papers. The study identifies and explores the logical and practical features required for an HRM mobile app. It uncovers challenges related to the Delphi survey experiences, such as managing heterogeneous information and ensuring compatibility with iOS and Android platforms. This research fills a gap in the literature by investigating the digital HRM landscape and HRM mobile applications in the Middle East. It provides valuable insights from HR and technology experts, contributing to the advancement of digital HRM, mobile applications, and the application of the Delphi method methodology. The study highlights implications for industries to enhance HR operations and productivity through the adoption of mobile HR applications. Theoretical contributions include new insights into the digital HRM literature, specifically regarding the identification and discussion of essential features in HRM mobile applications. Practical implications involve the benefits of transitioning from traditional HRM to digitalized HRM in the professional era, as identified through the analyzed features of the HR app. The study offers practical insights for the development and implementation of mobile HR apps. Organizations can leverage these insights to create effective mobile HR apps that enhance HR operations and employee productivity.
Exploring Trends and Gaps in Osteoarthritis Biomarker Research (1999-2024): A Citation Analysis of Top 50 Cited Articles
Authors: Hu Wenjin , Yang Jiyong , Liu Li , Li Dongchao , Zhao Yun , Wang Aiguo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the landscape of osteoarthritis (OA) biomarker research through the citation analysis of top-cited articles, identifying trends and gaps in this field.

Methods

The Web of Science Core Collection was utilized to retrieve the top 50 cited articles on OA biomarkers. Data extraction included publication characteristics, citation metrics, and biomarker categorization. Statistical analyses were conducted to discern correlations and assess significance.

Results

The top 50 cited articles spanned the years 1999 to 2020, and collectively cited 4849 articles, accumulating a total of 6177 citations, resulting in an average of 123.5 citations per document. Citations per article varied between 78 and 359, with a citation density ranging from 3.9 to 23.93. Analysis of the top 50 cited articles revealed comparable impact between recent and older publications. Predominant trends included cartilage-related and blood-based biomarkers, while inflammation-related, radiomics, and multi-omics emerged as potential future research directions. In BIPEDS classification, gaps were identified in biomarkers evaluating intervention efficacy and safety.

Conclusion

Despite significant advancements, there is no universally acknowledged biomarker for OA. Addressing gaps in biomarker exploration is crucial for enhancing OA management strategies. This study provides insights into prevailing trends and future research directions in OA biomarkers, guiding future investigations and therapeutic development.
Association between serum pyridoxal 5′-phosphate levels and all-cause, cardiovascular mortality, and cardiovascular disease in adults: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Xuan Chao , Liu Ru-Hua , Zhao Cong , Li Jing , Zhou Ting-Ting , Tian Qing-Wu , He Guo-Wei
Published: October 2024

Background:

The association between pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a topic of discussion.

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore the relationship between serum PLP levels and the incidence of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and the risk of CVD among the US population.

Design:

A population-based cohort study.

Methods:

This study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using weighted Cox proportional hazards regression models to assess the risk associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Weighted binary logistic regression was utilized to assess the relationship between serum PLP levels and the risk of CVD. Nonlinear associations were evaluated using multivariable-adjusted restricted cubic splines.

Results:

There were 2546 cases of all-cause mortality and 867 cases of cardiovascular mortality over a mean follow-up of 11.36 years. In the fully adjusted model, the adjusted HRs with 95% CIs for all-cause mortality associated with increases in serum PLP levels corresponding to the interquartile ranges were 0.83 (0.74–0.93), 0.71 (0.63–0.80), and 0.64 (0.56–0.74), respectively. Similarly, cardiovascular mortality decreased by 0.78 (0.62–0.97), 0.63 (0.49–0.81), and 0.62 (0.50–0.77) with each quartile increase in serum PLP levels. Higher serum PLP levels confer protection against CVD risk (odds ratio: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79–0.96). Serum PLP levels showed nonlinear relationships with risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and CVD.

Conclusion:

The results of this study provide evidence that serum PLP serves as a protective factor against all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and CVD in US adults, with dose–response relationships.