bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What to Do with “Other, Describe”
Authors: Wong Jaclyn S. , Valentino Lauren , Pao Christina , Donnelly Moran Katie , Compton D’Lane , Kaufman Gayle
Published: December 2024

Measuring social categories and phenomena in survey questionnaires is complicated in a dynamic and diverse society. The use of “other, describe”–style open-ended text boxes can address this issue, but researchers rarely use these data because they lack guidance on how to code open-text information and manage small samples for analyses. The authors offer a roadmap to key decisions regarding the use of “other, describe” answer options and data during three stages of research: data collection and instrument development, data cleaning, and data analysis. The authors then use two cases, the Perceptions of Housework Pilot Survey and the Perceptions of Discrimination Study, to illustrate how decision making about open-text responses to demographic survey questions unfolded. These cases highlight the complexities and trade-offs in decision making and their implications for knowledge production. The authors recommend meta-practices for flexibility, transparency, and reflexivity, as there is not one “right choice” when it comes to using “other, describe” data.
Orthographic effects and fuzzy phonological representations in L2 auditory processing: The case of non-native gemination
Authors: Mairano Paolo , Santiago Fabian , de la Fuente Israel , De Iacovo Valentina
Published: December 2024

Previous studies have demonstrated the existence of non-native gemination in the speech of native (L1) Italian learners of a second language (L2), corresponding to double letters. We present the results of a bimodal truncated word-matching experiment testing phonological expectations for 30 L1 Italian learners of L2 French, and 30 L1 French control speakers. Manipulated consonantal durations affected responses and response times for learners, but not for native speakers: stimuli with lengthened consonants corresponding to single-letter spelling resulted in lower accuracy and higher response times; stimuli with short consonants corresponding to double-letter spelling resulted in high accuracy, but response times increased. We argue that exposure to native French in the classroom and during stays abroad has promoted the development of fuzzy L2 phonological representations, so that learners correctly process words spelled with double letters but cannot turn off their perceptual sensitivity to consonant duration, which remains modulated by orthography.
A reflection on paradigmatic tensions within the FDA advisory committee for MDMA-assisted therapy
Authors: Roseman Leor
Published: December 2024

The recent rejection of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)-assisted therapy by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is a dramatic moment in the re-emergence of psychedelic research. In this perspective, I argue that it represents a case study for paradigmatic tensions within psychopharmacology. The regulatory system is still influenced by a paradigm that sees the therapeutic effects of drugs as primarily biological, and context is noise to control for. An emergent paradigm considers the therapeutic effects of drugs as interactive with context. Psychedelics are the anomaly that questions the dominant paradigm, mainly due to the determination of psychedelic researchers that the medicines are drugs with psychotherapy. While some of the critique offered by the FDA towards MAPS/Lykos’s studies is crucial, much of it is related to the experiential and psychotherapeutic elements – which the FDA claims not to regulate. This leads to some paradoxes within the regulatory procedure, which hint at a need for a shift in how psychedelic-assisted therapy is regulated and researched. Both regulators and researchers will need to find ways to accommodate each other in service of a successful integration of a new paradigm in which drugs and psychotherapy interact.
The Impact of Soothing Media on the Content of Prospective Mental Imagery. Photo-Elicitation and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis Study
Authors: Gouveia Gaglianone Catarina , Zhu Lian , Gillespie-Smith Karri , Schwannauer Matthias
Published: December 2024

Positive mental imagery (PMI) is believed to counteract the negative effects of anxiety and depression. However, research on PMI remains nascent. Participants often report difficulties in generating positive mental imagery, including prospective mental imagery, which involves creating hypothetical future events based on episodic memory. The present qualitative study investigated the prospective mental imagery content and the influence of soothing videos on prospective mental imagery production. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants aged 18–65 years of various nationalities. The data were analyzed using, an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The study found that prospective mental imagery content, included, regardless of nationality and age, was related to A) goals, including life a life and career milestones, B) time with family and friends, and C) travel. Participants also reported that it was easier to produce vivid PMI after soothing videos were presented. These findings suggest that regardless of the similar content across demographics, interpretation is subjective and linked to individual factors. These insights should be considered in the clinical setting when addressing mental imagery.
Functional Liver Imaging Score (FLIS) as imaging parameter for predicting post-hepatectomy complications in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Ji Yea Hee , Son Il Wan , Hong Seung Baek , Lee Nam Kyung , Kim Suk , Seo Hyung Il , Noh Byeong Gwan
Published: December 2024

Background

Liver dysfunction has been reported as a risk factor for predicting complications after hepatectomy. In patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) who underwent hepatectomy, a Functional Liver Imaging Score (FLIS), derived from gadoxetic acid–enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), has never been investigated as a predictor of clinically significant post-hepatectomy complications.

Purpose

To evaluate whether FLIS can predict post-hepatectomy complications in patients with LC.

Material and Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of patients with LC who underwent gadoxetic acid–enhanced MRI and hepatectomy. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to identify clinicopathological and radiologic findings associated with the development of major complication (Clavien–Dindo classification [CDC] ≥ III). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the cutoff value of FLIS for predicting CDC ≥ III.

Results

Of the finally included 106 patients (77 men; mean age = 62.5 ± 8.3 years), 12 patients had a CDC ≥ III. Multivariable analysis showed that only FLIS independently predicted post-hepatectomy complications (odds ratio = 0.02; P = 0.01). ROC analysis suggested the FLIS ≤ 4 was the optimal cutoff for predicting CDC ≥ III (AUC value = 0.94; sensitivity = 91.67%; specificity = 95.74%; positive likelihood ratio = 21.54; and negative likelihood ratio = 0.09).

Conclusion

In patients with LC, FLIS was an independent predictor of post-hepatectomy complications. FLIS showed excellent diagnostic performance in predicting post-hepatectomy complications.
The predictive factors for in-stent restenosis after interventional treatment of chronic carotid artery occlusion
Authors: Pan Song , Cao Yue-zhou , Zhou Chun , Jia Zhenyu , Zhao Lin-bo , Shi Hai-bin , Liu Sheng
Published: December 2024

Background

In-stent restenosis (ISR) is a potential severe complication that occurs in patients with severe carotid artery narrowing after carotid angioplasty and stent placement. However, this phenomenon has not been fully studied in the context of interventional treatment for chronic internal carotid artery occlusion (CICAO).

Purpose

To quantify the ISR rate and identify the risk factors leading to this event.

Material and Methods

This study included 69 patients with symptomatic CICAO who underwent successful intravascular recanalization at our institution. Clinical information, outcomes, and prognosis of the patients were recorded. The related factors of ISR were analyzed through univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

A total of 11 (15.9%) patients developed a significant ISR > 70% during the follow-up period. Among them, five patients with ISR experienced symptomatic restenosis. Our study found hyperlipidemia ( P = 0.017), contralateral internal carotid artery occlusion ( P = 0.041), and prolonged radiologic occlusion to recanalization time ( P = 0.049) could contribute to the risk of ISR in patients with CICAO.

Conclusion

ISR is not rare in patients with CICAO after successful intervention. Hyperlipidemia, contralateral ICA occlusion, and prolonged radiologic occlusion to recanalization time are the risk factors for ISR after treatment in patients with CICAO.
Factors influencing the colorectal surveillance adherence in Lynch Syndrome: A retrospective monocentric study
Authors: Ferrari Davide , Rausa Emanuele , Lauricella Sara , Brignola Clorinda , Zaccara Antonio , Signoroni Stefano , Ricci Maria Teresa
Published: December 2024

Background:

Lynch syndrome (LS), an autosomal dominant disorder resulting from germline pathogenic variants in DNA mismatch repair genes, poses an elevated risk of developing different types of cancer, particularly colorectal and endometrial. Early identification of LS individuals is vital for implementing preventive measures. This study aims to assess the adherence rate of LS individuals to colorectal surveillance and identify influencing factors.

Methods:

Data from the Hereditary Digestive Tumors Registry at Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori of Milan from 1995 to 2018 were analyzed. The study included 397 LS patients, as categorized based on adherence to surveillance. Statistical analyses, including multivariable logistic regression, were employed to identify factors influencing adherence.

Results:

Out of 397 LS patients, 305 (76.8%) completed surveillance, and 92 (23.2%) were lost during surveillance. Fifty-two patients developed colorectal cancer during the surveillance: 34 among patients who completed the surveillance and 18 among those who did not (p<0.036). Factors positively influencing adherence included genetic counseling and higher education, while the distance from the referral center had a negative impact. The survival rate was 83.5% at 240-months.

Conclusions:

This study emphasizes the importance of adhering to a regular colorectal surveillance program for LS individuals. Genetic counseling and higher education emerged as a crucial factor positively affecting adherence. The negative impact was observed for geographical distance from the referral center.
Two-dimensional spectroscopic analysis of sulphur group and pyrite transformations in coal coking
Authors: Chen Jingbo , Zhang Lechi , Huang Xianyou , Liu Yan , Qiu Shuxing , Wang Jianming , Farooq Sher , Zhang Shengfu
Published: December 2024

An accurate description of the sulphur migration process and mechanism is essential for guiding the selection and development of desulphurisation technology during the coking process, to increase the desulphurisation efficiency in the use of high-sulphur coking coal and decrease the sulphur content in the produced coke. However, the identified sulphur transformation mechanism in coal pyrolysis is not entirely applicable to the coking process due to variations in atmosphere, temperature and pressure. This work used numerous characterisation techniques in conjunction with experiments to quantitatively evaluate the transformation mechanism of both organic and inorganic sulphur throughout the coking process. The bond-breaking order of functional groups in sulphur during coking was obtained by the two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy analysis. The results show that desulphurisation in the coking process mainly occurs below 600 °C and 72.8% of sulphur in coal is retained in coke. Among them, FeS2 and sulphoxide are completely removed while sulphides are reduced by 67.9%. The content of sulphone increases by 46.1% because of the transformation of sulphoxide. Thiophenes and sulphates increase by 32.5% and 33.9%, respectively, as a result of the inorganic sulphur transformation and secondary reactions of sulphur-containing gases above 500 °C. Through Noda's theorem, the bond-breaking sequence of sulphur-containing functional groups in coal during the coking process is obtained as follows: Fe–S bond → thiol C–S bond → alkyl sulphide C–S bond → thiol–SH → aliphatic C–S bond → thioether C–S bond → sulphoxide S=O bond → sulphone, sulphoxide C–S bond. By clarifying the desulphurisation characteristics of different sulphur forms, suggestions and ideas for the development of desulphurisation technology of coking coal are put forward, which is helpful for the wide utilisation of high-sulphur coal.
Gaslighting Experience, Psychological Health, and Well-being: The Role of Self-Compassion and Social Support
Authors: Ciabatti Marta , Nerini Amanda , Matera Camilla
Published: December 2024

Gaslighting is an understudied form of psychological violence aimed to reduce victims’ autonomy, decision-making ability, security, and belief in their own perceptions. Although it leads to negative psychological, relational, and health consequences, few studies have examined the protective variables of this form of violence. The present study aims to analyze the role of self-compassion and social support (from family, friends, and significant others) in predicting gaslighting experiences, psychological health, and eudaimonic well-being among young Italian women. The mediational role of the gaslighting experience was examined. Participants (251 women, mean age = 38.72) completed an online survey assessing the variables of interest. Path analysis showed that participants’ self-compassion and perceived social support from family and significant others (but not one from friends) were negatively and significantly associated with gaslighting experience. Gaslighting experience emerged as a significant and negative predictor of both psychological health and eudaimonic well-being. Gaslighting experience partially mediated the relationship among self-compassion and both psychological health and eudaimonic well-being, and totally mediated the association among perceived social support (from family and from significant others) and both psychological health and eudaimonic well-being. This is one of the few studies that allowed to identify the important role of some interpersonal (i.e., social support) and intrapersonal (i.e., self-compassion) factors in predicting gaslighting experience. Our findings could be useful in designing preventive programs aimed to increase women’s abilities to cope with the potential manipulative intentions of their partner with positive consequences on their health and well-being.
Intimate Partner Violence and Level of Household Food Scarcity in Mozambique
Authors: Tadesse Aweke , Helton Jesse J. , Kong Vibol
Published: December 2024

Although food insecurity in its various forms is consistently associated with the presence of intimate partner violence (IPV), it is still unknown if various levels of severity of hunger predict IPV when important extraneous mental health, interpersonal, and social support indicators are considered. The study applied a posttest-only comparison group quasi-experimental design. The samples were randomly drawn from married women ( n = 202) in Mozambique. The logistic regression model showed a significant association between multiple forms of IPV and multiple forms of food scarcity; women experiencing severe hunger were consistently between 3.5- and 5-times greater odds of reporting IPV compared to those without hunger, even when controlling for important covariates.
Mothers’ Gender-role Ideologies and Exclusive Breastfeeding in Western Rural China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nie Jingchun , Li Yangyuan , Wang Nan , Liu Yunjie , Wu Junhao , Ye Jinbiao , Reheman Zulihumaer , Yang Jie , Xue Hao , Shi Yaojiang
Published: December 2024

Background:

Shifts in women’s maternal roles may contribute to the global low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding.

Research Aim:

To investigate the association between maternal gender-role ideologies and exclusive breastfeeding in rural China.

Methods:

Cross-sectional studies were conducted in 10 counties in Shaanxi Province using random sampling in 2021 and 2023. Data on breastfeeding practices, maternal gender-role ideology, and expected educational attainment from 586 rural participants were collected through structured questionnaires. Multivariable regression analysis was employed to explore the association between maternal gender-role ideology and exclusive breastfeeding.

Results:

The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding within 6 months in rural western China was 18.8%. Women with more egalitarian gender-role ideologies were more likely to engage in exclusive breastfeeding ( OR = 1.34, 95% CI [1.04, 1.72]), particularly for female infants ( OR = 1.63, 95% CI [1.09, 2.43]). Furthermore, women with stronger egalitarian gender-role ideologies were found to exhibit a greater propensity for financial investment in their children ( Beta = 0.20, 95% CI [0.01, 0.40]) and hold higher educational expectations for their daughters ( OR = 1.50, 95% CI [1.00, 2.25]).

Conclusion:

Maternal gender-role ideology positively correlates with exclusive breastfeeding. More policies should be implemented on gender equality in rural China, and cultural perspectives should be incorporated into the analysis of breastfeeding practice.
An improved ε-greedy strategy based reinforcement learning for autonomous control of mining electric locomotives
Authors: Li Ying , Zhu Zhencai , Li Xiaoqiang , Yang Chunyu , Lu Hao
Published: December 2024

As a major auxiliary transportation equipment in coal mines, manually operated mining electric locomotives often cause accidents due to the complex and harsh mining environment. Reinforcement learning (RL) focuses on how agents take action in the environment to maximize returns, which is helpful for achieving automatic control of mining electric locomotives. In this paper, RL is applied to autonomous control of mining electric locomotives, considering unsafe conditions such as avoidance of dynamic obstacles and maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front. To achieve more precise control, an improved [Formula: see text]-greedy (IEG) algorithm which can better balance the exploration and exploitation is further proposed. To verify the effectiveness of this method, a co-simulation platform for autonomous control of mining electric locomotives is built which can complete closed-loop simulation of the vehicles. The simulation results show that this method ensures the locomotives following the front vehicle safely and responding promptly in the event of sudden obstacles on the road when the vehicle in complex and uncertain coal mine environments.
Dr Pranjivandas Manekchand Mehta MD, MS, FCPS 1889–1981 and Caraka Samhita (1949)
Authors: Pandya Sunil K
Published: December 2024

Pranjivandas Manekchand Mehta (1889–1981), MD, MS, FCPS, also known as Dr P M Mehta, was an Indian physician and surgeon in Bombay, who then became the personal physician of the Maharajah Jamsaheb of the former Princely State of Nawanagar, Gujarat, British India. The Jamsaheb appointed Mehta as the Chief Medical Officer of Nawanagar, and with the guidance of the French radiologist, Jean Saidman, oversaw the construction of the first solarium in India. Mehta persuaded the Jamsaheb to fund an institution dedicated to Ayurvedic studies, named the Shri Gulabkunverba Ayurvedic Society, the precursor to the first Ayurveda college in India, and he became the Director of the Central Institute of Research on Indigenous Systems, which later came under the umbrella of the Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Jamnagar. P M Mehta was instrumental in establishing a medical college in Nawanagar's capital, now known as the M. P. Shah Medical College, Jamnagar. His work in Ayurvedic medicine and assembling a group of Sanskrit scholars led to a detailed translation of the ancient Sanskrit medical text Çaraka Samhita, also spelt Charaka Samhita, into English, Hindi and Gujarati, published in six volumes in 1949. In 2022, the World Health Organization and the Indian Government established the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine in India, and chose Jamnagar as its location, noting that that was where graduate-level Ayurvedic studies began. Mehta's efforts in Ayurvedic education and the Çaraka Samhita translations have largely been forgotten over several decades, and a recently issued reprint omits the mention of his name. The aim of this paper is to give some glimpses into Mehta's life and his role in the revival of Ayurveda in India, during the lead-up to and during the early years of independent India.
Intersectionality and the Construction of Humour in Contemporary Stand-up Comedy
Authors: Weaver Simon , Lockyer Sharon
Published: December 2024

As an autobiographical mode of performance, stand-up comedy is interlinked with debates on identity, inequality and social justice. While much of the existing stand-up comedy and identity literature has prioritised the analysis of a single axis of identity, this study significantly extends existing analysis to examine intersectionality in stand-up comedy. Taking an innovative interdisciplinary theoretical approach derived from humour studies and cultural studies, we explore how intersectionality is involved in the construction of humour in contemporary stand-up comedy. Via a rigorous thematic analysis, we analyse the comedic material of three contemporary stand-up comedians on Netflix – Jimmy Carr, Dave Chappelle and Hannah Gadsby. We examine the intersections of their identities in terms of the representation of inequalities, privilege, discrimination and prejudice. Analysis reveals three key themes demonstrated by Carr, Chappelle and Gadsby that illuminate an original understanding of the relationship between identity, intersectionality and humour. These themes concern: 1) intersecting race, gender and sexuality; 2) depicting gendered violence; and 3) intersectional differences in the uses of disclaimers through which comedy is defended.
Understanding Stakeholder Priorities in Dupuytren Disease: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Karpinski Marta , Hircock Caroline , Gallo Lucas , Dunn Emily , Murphy Jessica , Kaur Manraj N. , Thoma Achilles
Published: December 2024

Background:

Currently, there is no recommended standard set of outcomes to report in Dupuytren disease treatment studies, nor are there guidelines on how the outcomes themselves should be reported. This study aimed to elicit the most salient issues for patients living with and undergoing treatment for Dupuytren disease, as well as for the hand surgeons, occupational therapists, and physical therapists caring for these patients.

Methods:

A qualitative, interpretive description study employing one-on-one semi-structured interviews was conducted. Ten surgeons, 12 occupational and physical therapists, and 10 patients were interviewed.

Results:

Priorities related to Dupuytren disease treatment and recovery differed by stakeholder group. Surgeons prioritized range of motion, recovery time, and recurrence. Physical and occupational therapists frequently mentioned range of motion, grip strength, activities of daily living, return to meaningful activities, wound healing, edema, lack of sensation, and pain as important treatment outcomes. Patients described extension deficit, activities of daily living, holding objects, and lack of sensation.

Conclusions:

Through the present study, we have identified outcomes of high importance to patients, hand surgeons, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. These results can be used to inform the development of a core outcome set for Dupuytren contracture.
Association between women empowerment and contraceptive utilization in Ethiopia
Authors: Abebe Yonas , Berhanu Robera Demissie , Kajela Lencho , Bayane Yadeta Babu
Published: December 2024

Background:

Women’s empowerment is essential for achieving sustainable development goals. It involves enabling women to take control of their lives by giving them the agency, resources, and opportunities they need to make their own choices and reach their full potential. If more women are empowered to use modern contraceptives, greater reductions in maternal mortality will follow. By understanding this association, we can identify key women empowerment dimensions that have an association with family planning utilization and consider ways forward to improve reproductive health outcomes for women.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the association between women’s empowerment and modern contraceptive utilization among married mothers in Ethiopia.

Design:

A facility-based quantitative study was employed.

Methods:

A facility-based quantitative cross-sectional study was employed among 305 mothers selected by systematic random sampling at Jimma Town Public Hospital from July 1 to August 31, 2022. The interviewer-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. The collected data were entered into EpiData Manager, version 4.6.0.6, and then exported to SPSS, version 26. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to investigate the associations between the dependent and independent variables.

Results:

Among a total of 305 study subjects, 301 were used in the analysis. Approximately 65% (95% CI = 59.8, 70.8) of the women utilized modern contraceptive methods. High general self-efficacy (AOR = 4.17; 95% CI = 2.11, 8.23), an internal locus of control (AOR = 3.92; 95% CI = 2.01, 7.65), labor work participation (AOR = 4.53; 95% CI = 1.99, 10.31), and enrollment in elementary education (AOR = 8.30; 95%; CI = 2.96, 23.27) have a statistically significant association with modern contraceptive utilization.

Conclusion:

Numerous dimensions of women’s empowerment are significantly associated with modern contraceptive utilization. The dimension of women’s empowerment needs considerable focus from stakeholders to empower women and enable them to utilize contraceptives and other maternal healthcare services.
The education café: A novel model to provide specialist perioperative continuing professional development during theatre downtime
Authors: Ballecer Jasper , Fernandez-Saborit Oscar , Britton Carolina
Published: December 2024

Recent healthcare staff industrial action disrupted operating theatres activity, delaying procedures, and increasing waiting lists due to cancellations. Strike days have also led to inadvertent idling of theatre practitioners during decreased activity. To maximise paid staff working time during down-times, the Theatres Education Team devised the Education Café for self-directed online specialist continuing professional development activities compiled into menus of QR codes. These could be scanned by theatre staff allocated to theatres with cancelled lists, with their own devices, to learn within their own pace in a contained area with clinical practice facilitators supervising completion and reflective work after each continuing professional development activity. A total of 4936 continuing professional development hours were garnered by staff, with a mean of 206 continuing professional development hours per industrial action day. In financial terms, the department saved £185,593.60 which would otherwise have been needed to fund continuing professional development programmes and study day backfill in regular times, when continuing professional development in the education café was not provided. Staff feedback provided high scores for the activity with a mean of 4.84/5.00. The team that undertook this project received the 2024 AfPP Perioperative Team of the Year Award, and this report meets the requirement of the award to disseminate the project via the AfPP journal.
Chronic urinary tract infections cause persistent microglial changes in a humanized ɑ-synuclein mouse model
Authors: Mercado Gabriela , Clabout Ann-Céline , Howland Vanessa , Arkin Ehsan , Janer Anna Barber , Plessers Dieter , Steiner Jennifer A , Smith Wanli W , Hannan Tom , Brundin Patrik , Peelaerts Wouter
Published: December 2024

Background

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) have recently been linked to the onset of multiple synucleinopathies including Parkinson's disease (PD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). UTIs are more common in people with PD or MSA, than in the general population and within these patient groups the incidence of UTIs is evenly distributed between men and women. UTIs are especially common during disease, but also in the years before clinical diagnosis.

Objective

The mechanisms by which UTIs may contribute to the development and progression of PD or MSA are not well understood. In this work, we evaluate the neuroinflammatory effects of recurrent UTIs on the brain.

Methods

In a humanized mouse model of ɑ-synuclein, we find that repeated administration of uropathogenic E. coli result in sustained UTIs, or a non-resolving chronic UTI phenotype with persistent bacteriuria. Using this model, we investigate the effects of repeated chronic UTIs on neuroinflammation and synucleinopathy in the brain.

Results

Recurrent UTIs lead to behavioral motor changes and are accompanied by persistent neuroinflammatory changes in multiple brain areas. Affected regions with microglial changes involve multiple lower brainstem areas responsible for sickness behavior, including the dorsal vagal complex, and the cingulate cortex.

Conclusions

These results suggests that recurrent UTIs can have lasting impact on the brain, and it warrants further investigation of the potential role of UTIs in the disease progression of synucleinopathies and related neurological disorders.
Pointing in the right direction: Greater motor improvements with directional versus circular subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hurt Christopher P , Kuhman Daniel J , Moll Alyson , Guthrie Barton L , Olson Joseph W , Nakhmani Arie , Wade Melissa , Brinkerhoff Sarah A , Holland Marshall T , Walker Harrison C
Published: December 2024

Background

Directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) provides more precise control of current spread than conventional ring-shaped electrodes. Whether this enhanced flexibility improves motor function is unclear.

Objective

Here we examine whether directional and circular stimulation differentially impact motor performance in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Methods

Motor behaviors were assessed in 31 patients who underwent unilateral subthalamic nucleus brain stimulation surgery (SUNDIAL, NCT03353688). Eight configurations, including 6 directional contacts and their corresponding rings), were evaluated during device activation. Objective measures of motor performance related to limb dexterity, gait, and overall mobility were evaluated in a double-blind fashion in the “off” medication state versus preoperative baseline, with stimulus amplitude at the center of the therapeutic window.

Results

Significant changes in performance were observed across each of five motor tasks between the best and worst directional contacts on a given DBS row (p < 0.001 each task). Certain stimulation directions led to functional declines versus baseline, whereas the best direction yields greater improvement than ring stimulation (p = 0.005, p = 0.001, p = 0.007, p < 0.001, respectively, across tasks). Directional DBS improves therapeutic window and side effect thresholds versus ring stimulation (0.40 ± 0.94 and 0.35 ± 0.51 mA, p < 0.001, respectively), but these variables correlated only modestly with motor performance at a given stimulation site.

Conclusions

Optimized directional subthalamic nucleus DBS yields better group-level motor performance than ring stimulation, in addition to its known advantages related to tolerability. Prospective studies should evaluate whether these improvements persist over longer time intervals.
Association of motor subtype and tremor type with Parkinson's disease progression: An exploratory longitudinal analysis
Authors: Zhong Yuke , Su Huahua , Liu Ying , Liu Hang , Liu Guohui , Liu Zhihui , Wei Jiahao , Wang Junyi , She Yuchen , Tan Changhong , Mo Lijuan , Han Lin , Deng Fen , Liu Xi , Chen Lifen
Published: December 2024

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with heterogenous symptoms and progression rates. Some studies have classifying PD into tremor-dominant and non-tremor-dominant PD (TD-PD and Non-TD-PD), finding that TD-PD tend to have a better prognosis, slower disease progression, and lower pathological burden compared to Non-TD-PD. However, this classification does not consider the specific types of tremors, even though recent studies have shown that different types of tremors in PD might have distinct underlying mechanism.

Objective

Data from 517 de novo drug-naïve PD patients was analyzed.

Methods

Survival analysis was carried out including motor subtypes, rest tremor presence, kinetic tremor presence, postural tremor presence, as well as the instability of tremor presence or motor subtypes as predictors. Occurrence of 6 outcomes, including motor and non-motor milestones at follow-up, were used as the time-to-event.

Results

Both TD-PD subtype and rest tremor presence was associated with slower PD progression, while kinetic tremor presence and postural tremor presence, especially kinetic tremor presence, was associated with a faster one.

Conclusions

Our study suggests different types of tremors are associated with distinct PD prognoses, indicating potential differences in underlying mechanisms. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the specific mechanisms underlying different types of tremors in PD and to explain their relationship to disease prognosis.
How Might We Tell if Advances in Diabetes Care and Technology are Helping People to Feel Less Constrained? Introducing the Diabetes Constraints Scale
Authors: Polonsky William H. , Soriano Emily C. , Strycker Lisa A. , Fisher Lawrence
Published: December 2024

Background:

Recent advances in diabetes care and technology, such as real-time continuous glucose monitoring, can help people live more freely, with more flexibility and fewer constraints, thereby enhancing quality of life (QOL). To date, there has been no validated means for measuring this key psychological dimension. We developed the Diabetes Constraints Scale (DCS) to assess perceived constraints pertaining to diabetes self-management.

Methods:

Six items were developed from qualitative interviews (20 adults with type 2 diabetes [T2D], 8 adults with type 1 diabetes [T1D]). Items were included in one study with T2D adults (N = 458) and one with T1D adults (N = 574). Scale reliability was analyzed for each study using exploratory factor analyses. Associations between DCS and key psychosocial and glycemic variables were assessed.

Results:

In both studies, factor analyses revealed a single factor, with adequate internal reliability (Cronbach’s alpha >.80). Both studies demonstrated significant associations in the expected direction between DCS and overall well-being, diabetes-specific QOL, and diabetes distress (all P < .001). In both studies, DCS was positively linked with the number of missed insulin boluses and the frequency of severe hypoglycemic episodes (T1D both P < .001; T2D both P < .005) and—in the T1D group only—with HbA1c ( P < .001).

Conclusions:

The DCS is a reliable and valid method to determine the degree to which adults with diabetes feel constrained or limited by the disease. It may serve as a useful tool for assessing how new interventions can help individuals feel freer in the face of the demands of diabetes.
Prosocial Phenotype Predicts Political Views on Hierarchy and Redistribution 18 Months Later
Authors: Claessens Scott , Sibley Chris G. , Chaudhuri Ananish , Atkinson Quentin D.
Published: December 2024

Cross-sectional research has identified robust correlations between prosocial behavior in economic games and political views, but this research is limited in its ability to draw causal inferences. Here, we conducted a longitudinal cross-lagged panel study of prosociality and political views with a New Zealand sample ( n = 631). Across two waves separated by 18 months, we measured self-reported political views and employed a battery of economic games to estimate people’s general preferences for prosociality. We found that this “prosocial phenotype” predicted future variation in some of our measures of political views, including Social Dominance Orientation and support for income redistribution. Income attribution beliefs and political party support were not consistently related to the prosocial phenotype over time. None of these variables predicted future variation in the prosocial phenotype. These results suggest that prosocial predispositions may play a causal role in the expression of certain political views.
Computational analysis of ternary hybrid nanofluids mass transport and Bodewadt flow across a rotating disk driven by waste discharge concentration
Authors: Vinutha Kallechar , Prasannakumara Ballajja Chandrappa , Madhukesh Javali Kotresh , Khan Umair , Ishak Anuar , Kumar Raman
Published: December 2024

The amount of substance found in the environment (such as water, soil, and air) relates to the concentration of pollutants. Pollutant concentration analysis is a helpful tool for evaluating how effectively procedures for waste treatment and regulatory constraints reduce contamination concentrations. Because of this, the Bodewadt flow of ternary hybrid nanofluid movement over a stretched disk in the existence of a porous medium and a concentration of pollutants is examined in the current investigation. The present analysis mainly focuses on the impact of external pollution sources on the concentration of pollutants. By applying the appropriate similarity variables, the governing equations for the flow and concentrations, which are in the form of partial differential equations (PDEs), are converted into a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Utilizing graphs, various significant non-dimensional parameters and some engineering coefficient influences will be explained. local pollutant external source parameter and the Lewis number impact on the concentration profile is evaluated. The concentration of the fluid motion improves as the local pollutant external source parameter escalates while reduction of concentration is seen in the case of Lewis number. Enhancement in the volume fraction upsurges the concentration of the fluid motion and drops the velocity of the fluid motion. Raise in the stretching strength parameter, drop the Sherwood number and rises the skin friction coefficient.
Radiographic and Clinical Results of Minimally Invasive Transverse Distal 1st Metatarsal and Akin Osteotomies for Symptomatic Hallux Valgus
Authors: Fanfan Dino , Todd George , Guevara Christian , Murray Daniel , Giovanni Thomas P. San , Hodgkins Christopher W. , Chapman Cary B.
Published: December 2024

Category:

Bunion; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Minimally invasive techniques for surgical treatment of hallux valgus (HV) has gained popularity over the past few years. Most published reports involve combined minimally invasive Chevron and Akin osteotomies (MICA) performed by a single surgeon. This study reports radiographic and clinical results on patients who underwent minimally invasive transverse distal 1st metatarsal and Akin osteotomies by 3 fellowship trained Foot & Ankle orthopedic surgeons.

Methods:

192 consecutive patients (213 feet) between 2019 and 2022 with symptomatic hallux valgus without 1st tarsometatarsal or metatarsal phalangeal joint arthritis or TMT joint instability were followed for at least one year. The average age was 56.5, average final follow-up of 13.4 months, and 86.5% (166) of patients were women. Primary radiographic outcomes include pre- and post-operative HV (HVA), inter-metatarsal (IMA), and proximal inter-metatarsal angles (pIMA). Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores were used to determine functional outcomes. Pain relief was measured by Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores. Complication, re-operation and radiographic recurrence rates were also determined. Radiographic recurrence was defined as a change in HVA >10 degrees.

Results:

Additional procedures were performed on 83 feet (39%), the most common being lesser metatarsal osteotomies, which was performed in 88% of those patients. Among corrected bunions, 8.5% were classified as severe (HVA >40 degrees) and 79% were moderate (HVA >20 and < 40 degrees). Average pre-op HVA and IMA were 28.4 and 12.8 degrees and improved to 8.4 and 4.2 degrees (p < 0.001). Statistically significant increases in FAAM-ADL, FAAM-Sports and VAS scores were observed (p < 0.001). There were no cases of superficial or deep infections. There were 10 radiographic recurrences, 3 symptomatic recurrences and 2 non-unions requiring re-operation, and 13 (6%) hardware removals.

Conclusion:

The fourth-generation MIS HV surgery has demonstrated promising results in treating moderate and severe hallux valgus (HV), exhibiting favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes over an average follow-up period of 12.4 months. This technique has showcased remarkable safety and efficacy, with our cohort experiencing minimal recurrence, revision, and complication rates. Both instances of non-unions achieved successful union following re-operation.
Return to Sports and Sports Activities after Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Ankle in Elite Athletes
Authors: Dahmen Jari , Hollander Julian , Ramsodit Kishan , Rikken Quinten , Stufkens Sjoerd , Kerkhoffs Gino M M.M.J.
Published: December 2024

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

The aim of this study is to assess the return to sports rate and times after treatment of osteochondral lesions of the ankle in elite level athletes.

Methods:

All elite level athletes treated for an OLT(P) were selected from a cross-sectional database consisting of consecutive patients with cartilage injuries of the ankle and subsequently underwent prospective follow-up. Outcomes included return to sports outcomes, patient reported outcomes and a qualitative assessment regarding mental health

Results:

26 patients with a median age of 22 years (IQR: 19.0 – 24.5) were included with a median follow-up time of 48 months (IQR: 34.5 – 71.0). Seven patients (27%) underwent conservative treatment and 19 patient (73%) operative treatment. Conservative treatment yielded a return to sport rate at any level of 86%, return to pre-injury and return to performance level of both 57%. For operative treatment these rates were 100%, 74% and 63% respectively. Mean time to return to pre-injury level overall was 8.3 months. At latest follow-up only 11 patients (44%) were still active at an elite level of sport.

Conclusion:

Both conservative and surgical treatment for osteochondral lesions of the ankle yielded return to sport rates above 86% in elite level athletes. The results of this study can be used in the decision-making process between the physician and the elite athlete to inform them about the expected return to sport rates and times for the different treatment options for OLT(P)s. As most athletes at the time of injury and treatment are still highly motivated and disciplined to return to their sport at the same level and be able to compete at the highest level available in their sport.
Geopolitical ecology: Climate change geopolitics and farmer–herder conflicts in West Africa
Authors: Nwankwo Cletus Famous
Published: December 2024

Climate change impacts various social systems and has been linked to conflicts, especially resource conflicts in dry and semi-dry lands of West Africa. Climate change exacerbates conflicts by influencing the migration of pastoralists towards southern West Africa. Thus, resolving farmer–herder conflicts can be placed in the context of addressing climate change impacts. The political imbroglio in negotiating the climate change regime has impacted communities exposed to climate change. The difficulty of reaching a global binding regime that addresses climate change ethically because of power struggles among states defines climate change geopolitics. Climate change geopolitics thus remains a challenge to addressing farmer–herder conflicts and sustainable development goals 15 and 16 concerning sustainable use of land and promoting peace, respectively. This article argues that the geopolitical ecology framework can help analyse the link between climate change geopolitics and farmer–herder conflicts that address the limitation of the eco-violence thesis. Building on the emerging literature on conservation geopolitics dubbed ‘geopolitical ecology’, it demonstrates how integrating the critical geopolitics perspective that has received little attention in the farmer–herder conflicts literature with the blossoming ‘access to resource’ framework of political ecology helps to achieve this.
Suitability analysis of ecological park site selection in small and medium-sized cities based on multi-source geographic big data
Authors: Cai Chenfeng , Liu Xiaoqian , Ma Sike , Peng Peng , Ma Ziyuan
Published: December 2024

In the context of rapid urbanization, the scientific planning and development of ecological parks in small- to medium-sized cities are essential for enhancing the well-being of city dwellers and optimizing the ecological quality of urban environments. Traditional site suitability methods, however, are increasingly limited due to data resolution constraints and the challenges of balancing ecological protection, urban development, and socio-economic interests, which hardly provide insights for ecological park planning in small and medium-sized cities. This study addresses these limitations by employing a multi-source geographic big data framework, and applying it in Yongji City, Shanxi Province, by integrating remote sensing, Points of Interest, and land use data, a detailed 10m × 10m spatial grid was used for analysis. A comprehensive three-dimensional evaluation framework was developed, comprising ecological, infrastructural, and socio-economic factors, represented by 11 indicators. Points of Interest data have effectively assessed infrastructural configurations necessary for urban ecological parks, while remote sensing data provides critical insights into surface temperature and vegetation cover, which provide high-resolution indicators of environmental quality in urban and sub-urban regions. The site suitability analysis results reveal that hydrophilic landscapes, such as the Yellow River mudflats and Wuxing Lake wetlands, were identified as optimal areas for ecological park development due to their cooling effects and ecological benefits. Zone C, located southwest of Wuxing Lake, emerged as the ideal site due to its abundant natural assets and high accessibility, with a phased development strategy of other recommended sites based on their suitability. This research establishes a data-integrated framework that advances the methodology for urban ecological park planning in small- to medium-sized cities, providing both theoretical and practical insights that can inform similar projects in other urban contexts.
Collaborative explorations as breathing spaces for digital futures
Authors: Ruckenstein Minna
Published: December 2024

This paper reflects on collaborative explorations within the MyData initiative, delineating a non-linear, recursive research approach to emerging technologies in society. Three distinct yet interconnected modes of engagement are discussed: creating trouble, which involves questioning those who shape the technological agenda; composing futures, a technique to claim expertise and broker between different ways of knowing; and securing breathing space, which seeks to establish reflective domains where concepts and actions concerning data practices and algorithmic systems can be deliberated. Together, these modes of engagement suggest the reconceptualization of collaborative explorations as ‘breathing spaces for digital futures’, thereby advocating the proactive integration of social science perspectives into the core of digital society-making. This approach allows us to find new epistemic partners and respond to the epistemic coups we witness when technology experts and policymakers define the terms of debate.