bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sliding mode control strategy based on intermediate variable observer for cyber-physical systems under false data injection attack
Authors: Chen Yunjun , Liang Zhanchuo , Zhang Lu
Published: January 2025

A sliding mode control problem based on intermediate variable observer for non-linear cyber-physical systems in the existence of false data injection attack on actuator is investigated in this article. By constructing an intermediate variable observer to obtain accurate system states and reconstruct attack signals, based on which a non-singular terminal sliding mode control strategy is proposed to eliminate the effects of false data injection attack on the system. This strategy increases the convergence speed and transient response of the system in comparison with existing results. Furthermore, a continuous switching term is designed to suppress controller chattering. Parameters of the intermediate variable observer are determined by solving linear matrix inequality. The proposed method is applied to an electric amplidyne system for verifying its superiority.
A PD sliding mode swing suppression control method for bridge cranes with an improved reaching law
Authors: Li Dong , Hu Songming , Xing Shuangyun , Zhang Lu , Xie Tianhu , Yao Jingfeng
Published: January 2025

To overcome the undesirable swing caused by inertia during the operation of bridge cranes, an improved reaching law-based Proportional-Derivative sliding mode control(IRL-PD-SMC) method is proposed. This method effectively suppresses the load swing angle while ensuring precise and rapid arrival of the trolley at the target position. Firstly, a generalized error signal is constructed by combining the coupling signals of trolley displacement and load swing angle, and a sliding mode controller is built based on conventional sliding mode control(CSMC) theory. Subsequently, a PD equivalent control component is designed to enhance system stability. Meanwhile, the traditional exponential reaching law is improved by introducing a nonlinear reaching law to reduce system chattering. Finally, the asymptotic stability of the equilibrium point of the closed-loop system is proven using the Lyapunov method and Schur’s lemma. Experimental results show that this controller exhibits excellent positioning and anti-swing performance.
Gratitude in Action: Effect of Gratitude on Mental Health
Authors: Dalal Smarika , Singh Sandeep
Published: January 2025

This article aims to study whether gratitude affects mental health and, if so, then provide plausible explanations for the same. The surge in interest in studying gratitude is due to the fact that positive psychology research studies have consistently proven that gratitude leads to a higher amount of life satisfaction, happiness and well-being across various strata of individuals all over the world. Though the contribution of gratitude towards well-being and mental health has been established but this also exerts the need to provide a global definition for gratitude. The article aims to: (a) give a scalable yet universally accepted definition of gratitude, (b) study the effect of gratitude on our mental health and (c) study the effect of gratitude interventions on mental health. Mental health, in this article, is indicated by the absence of symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as the presence of positive emotions. The majority of studies in this arena have focused on how gratitude positively affects our mental health, subjective and eudaimonic well-being, but there have also been a significant number of studies which show that gratitude interventions have not been as effective. Possible explanations of the association between gratitude and mental health have been discussed. The article is a narrative, non-systematic review and will be useful for those who are interested in translating the scientific study of gratitude into practice by assisting them to understand and enhance the effectiveness of gratitude interventions.
Lac Dye: Beyond Textiles and Tradition, A Comprehensive Review of its Bioactive Potential
Authors: Dagur Pankaj , Ghosh Manik
Published: January 2025

Lac has been attracting the scientific community’s attention since time immemorial, aided by its wide-ranging applicability in the textile, plastic, metallurgy, and food industries. Lac exudate comprises three primary constituents: wax, resin, and dye. Lac dye, a mixture of polyhydroxy anthraquinones, is emerging as an up-and-coming candidate for various biological activities. A dearth of systematic reviews substantiating the chemical aspects, biological activities, and therapeutic potential of lac dye in treating human ailments propelled the need to comprehensively review its multifaceted prospects. The historical significance of lac dye, along with the chronological development of lac exudates, has been thoroughly discussed in this review. Additionally, the global abundance and distribution of lac was scaled, emphasizing its cultivation, especially in the context of Indian terrain. This review also sheds light on the chemistry of various constituents of lac dye. Further, the methods of isolation and characterization were extensively elaborated. More importantly, the biological importance of lac dye was systematically presented, discussing its role as an antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, and antifungal agent. This review highlights the disconnect about the research of lac and attempts to instigate the inquisitive minds of academia and the scientific world in further exploring and bridging the gaps relating to lac research.
Hyperoside inhibits Mitochondrial DNA Damage to Reverse Hepatocyte Pyroptosis to Treat Doxorubicin-related Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Liu Qing , Lan Ying , Bai Zhe
Published: January 2025

Background

Hyperoside is a potential liver cell and mitochondrial protector, but there is no evidence to suggest that hyperoside can effectively treat doxorubicin (DOX) related liver toxicity.

Purpose

This study aims to determine the role of hyperoside in DOX related liver toxicity and liver cell damage in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

A mouse model of liver toxicity was induced by intraperitoneal injection of DOX, and hyperoside was administered orally for treatment. During this period, the weight and food intake of the mice were recorded. The morphology of mouse liver tissue was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Oxidative stress and inflammatory status in mice were observed through serum inflammatory factors and liver oxidative stress markers. Mitochondrial damage is determined by the degree of mitochondrial DNA damage. Western blotting and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to detect the expression of pyroptosis and genes in the liver and liver cells.

Results

Hyperoside can effectively treat DOX-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory status, liver function damage, and hepatocyte necrosis in mice. Further research suggests that the beneficial effect of hyperoside is achieved by inhibiting mitochondrial DNA damage in liver cells.

Conclusion

This study indicates that hyperoside improves DOX-induced liver toxicity by inhibiting mitochondrial DNA damage.
A Study to Assess the Prevalence  of Headache, its Associated  Factors, Patterns and  Management Strategies Among Nursing Students
Authors: Kumar Maneesh , Bora Pooja , Arya Nisha , Kri Dhruvilu , Choudhary Kiran , Kumari Anjali , Nagi Manisha , Dhandapani Manju
Published: January 2025

Background

Nursing students worldwide face heightened physical and emotional demands from rigorous academic and clinical training, putting them at greater risk for frequent headaches due to the cumulative effects of long duty hours and clinical rotations.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of headaches, their associated factors, patterns, and management strategies among nursing students.

Methods

A descriptive study was conducted in a nursing college/tertiary center in Northern India during the 2023–2024 academic year. The study included 464 nursing students, predominantly female (96.3%) and 17 were male. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institute Ethics Committee. Tools used for assessment included a sociodemographic profile, headache checklist, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Jenkins Sleep Evaluation Questionnaire (JSEQ) to evaluate headache prevalence, factors, patterns, and management strategies.

Results

The study found that 76% of nursing students experienced headaches, primarily due to study-related stress (50%) and sleeplessness (25%). Half reported moderate severity, with Tension-type headaches (TTH) being the most common. Management strategies included over-the-counter medications (85.3%), rest and sleep (80%), and head massage (40%), with paracetamol being the most used medication (33%), followed by ibuprofen.

Conclusion

Three-fourths of nursing students experienced headaches in the past six months, primarily characterized by throbbing or dull pain of mild to moderate severity. High prevalence was noted among those with stress and sleep disturbances, with common management strategies including over-the-counter medications, rest, head massage, and relaxation techniques.
The politics of developmental alliances and municipal industrial policy in Central and Eastern European cities
Authors: Ban Cornel , Medve-Bálint Gergő , Volintiru Clara
Published: January 2025

Comparative political economists have been late to acknowledge the role of municipalities in industrial policy. Given that industrial policy is traditionally the province of central governments, when and why do cities follow national industrial policy priorities and when and why do they deviate from them? To address the question, the article compares three middle-sized municipalities in Central and Eastern Europe whose economic catch-up strategies shaped their transformation into dynamic economic hubs for the region – a different fate from other comparable cities. Thus, Gdansk (Poland) becomes a manufacturing and knowledge economy hub, Cluj (Romania) morphs into a knowledge economy hub with manufacturing in tow, while Debrecen (Hungary) is reborn predominantly as a manufacturing hub accompanied by an emerging business services sector. While the initiatives of municipal developmental alliances complemented the national export-led growth model in all three cities, only Debrecen fully aligned with the national industrial policy, while Cluj sharply deviated from it, with Gdansk being an intermediary case. The paper argues that this variation can be explained by three factors: pre-existing economic legacies in frontier and legacy sectors, the politics of leadership in local developmental alliances, and the politics governing the embedded autonomy of city governments in both the private sector and the central government ( double embedded autonomy).
Is Routine Discharge Enough? Needs and Perceptions Regarding Discharge and Readmission of Palliative Care Patients and Caregivers
Authors: Kuntz Aaron A. , Chen Victoria H. , Ambady Leena , Osher Benjamin , DesRoches Catherine
Published: January 2025

Context

The hospital discharge process is fraught for patients with serious illness and their caregivers.

Objectives

We sought to understand palliative care patient and caregiver concerns regarding the patient-centeredness of the hospital discharge process.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 patients receiving palliative care and 4 caregivers. Caregivers were interviewed with patient or alone, for a total of 13 interviews. Interviews were focused on the patient-centeredness of the discharge process, completeness of discharge education, and readmission. Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive approach with open coding.

Results

We identified four themes: (i) symptoms, (ii) relationship to illness, (iii) variance in patient-provider alignment, and (iv) discharge readiness, including readmission. Physical and non-physical symptoms were common, though non-pain symptoms were more frequently concerns. Illness understanding and empowerment by the discharge process were low, with participants seeking more information. Alignment varied by provider with closer relationships with bedside nurses and outpatient providers, especially oncologists, than inpatient providers. Readmission was not perceived to be avoidable but was associated with symptom burden. Discharge readiness was mixed; common concerns included lack of clarity regarding next steps and post-discharge services. Up to 40% of participants reported incomplete education on given topics.

Conclusion

Our qualitative study of patients and caregivers receiving palliative care identified unmet needs in the discharge process: non-pain symptom burden, gaps in empowerment and illness understanding, and mixed discharge readiness. Relationship to care informs subsequent engagement with care and medical decision-making. Future interventions should focus on strengthening patient and caregiver empowerment and illness understanding.
Factors Associated With Prolonged Survival in Colorectal Cancer Patients Admitted to Palliative Care: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Ferraz-Gonçalves José António , Lima Áurea , Silva Álvaro José , Calisto Rita
Published: January 2025

Objective

A recently published study concerning variables associated with survival longer than one year in palliative care included several types of cancer. A secondary analysis limited to patients with colorectal cancer was performed to analyze a more homogeneous group of patients.

Methods

Patients were identified through electronic records from 2012 to December 2018. All patients were over 18 years old and deceased. Cases were defined as patients who survived ≥1 year after being admitted to the palliative care service (PCS), while controls were those who had survived ≤6 months.

Results

The study includes 33 patients as cases and 119 as controls. 82 (54%) were male, and the median age was 78.5 years (49 to 95). In the univariable analysis, the variables associated with a low probability of living ≥1 year were an ECOG performance status ≥2, liver metastases, and pain. The variables associated with a survival ≥1 year were the neutrophil count ≤5.66 x 109/L and a neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio ≤3.59. In the multivariable analysis, only pain and liver metastases were associated with a low probability, and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio ≤3.59 with a high likelihood of living one year or more.

Conclusion

The data of this study suggests that in colorectal cancer patients admitted to a PCS, the presence of pain, liver metastases, and a high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio negatively impact the probability of living ≥1 year.
Metallic contaminants in wood panel production process: Evaluating press plate damage and detecting potential using IR thermography and spectroscopy
Authors: Mnif Feker , Youssef Guesmi , Larouche Rémy , Mrad Hatem , Morin Sébastien , Poirier Robert , Koubaa Ahmed
Published: January 2025

In the wood panel industry, metallic contaminants raise significant concerns, especially regarding the press plate's surface integrity, which requires a thorough inspection. This study investigated the effect of metallic contaminants on press plate damage and evaluated the use of infrared thermography (IRT) and infrared (IR) spectroscopy as non-destructive testing (NDT) methods for detecting these contaminants in wood panel manufacturing. Metallic contaminants embedded within lab-scale wood panels demonstrated their impact on the surface quality of both the press plate and the resulting panels. Moreover, confocal laser microscope analysis revealed that the surface roughness of the press plate surface was influenced by the specific alloy composition of contaminants, with steel and chromium contaminants exhibiting the more severe damage (e.g., mean roughness values of 59,80 and 84,64 μm, respectively). Thermography images exhibited the efficacy of IRT in detecting contaminants close to the surface of thin panels. However, an advanced camera is recommended for thicker panels and deeper contaminants to obtain a more accurate inspection. The Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) evaluation revealed the presence of the metal-oxygen vibration band at approximately 668 cm−1 across all alloy compositions, suggesting its potential as a reliable reference for detecting metallic contaminants.
Dual-cell composite acoustic covering layer with broadband absorption characteristics
Authors: Ye Shaopeng , Wu Haobi , Cai Jingyong , Tao Meng
Published: January 2025

A dual-cell combined acoustic covering layer has been designed and optimized, consisting of a viscoelastic rubber matrix, metal vibrators, cavities, and a steel backing. By parallel coupling the sound absorption characteristics of each cell across different frequency bands, the structural size parameters were optimized using finite element methods and genetic algorithms. The optimized covering layer exhibits an average sound absorption coefficient exceeding 0.98 in the range of 561 Hz to 15000 Hz. When adopting 0.8 as the standard for the sound absorption coefficient, an absorption range of 14439 Hz is achieved, demonstrating its wide frequency band and high sound absorption capabilities. The sound absorption mechanism of the covering layer is further revealed by analyzing the displacement and energy power dissipation distribution cloud diagrams. When the angle of sound wave incidence is 60°, the average sound absorption coefficient of the covering layer is above 0.8; even under a hydrostatic pressure of 5 MPa, the sound absorption coefficient of the covering layer remains stable above 0.8 after 595 Hz, confirming its structural stability and the durability of its sound absorption performance.
Fluorouracil enhances the anti-pancreatic cancer effect of anti-PD-L1 antibodies via up-regulating the expression of PD-L1 in cancer cells
Authors: Wang Wei , Zhang Sujing , Wang Cong , Gao Siming , Zhang Lingling , Zhang Changwang , Zheng Zheng , Zhang Jiancong , Xu Hui , Bo Changwen , Li Na
Published: January 2025

Pancreatic cancer is characterized by occult onset, low early diagnosis rate, rapid progress, and poor prognosis. Due to the low response rate and low programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in pancreatic cancer, the therapeutic application of PL-L1 inhibitors in pancreatic cancer is greatly limited. In vitro studies showed that the expression of PD-L1 increased in pancreatic cancer cells stimulated by fluorouracil (5-FU). We aim to explore the combined effect of 5-FU and anti-PD-L1 antibodies and to provide a reference for the clinical application of PD-L1 antibodies in pancreatic cancer. In the current study, male BALB/c mice were adopted to construct a tumor-bearing model of pancreatic cancer cells. 5-FU and anti-mouse PD-L1 antibodies were combined and administered to evaluate their synergistic effects. The enhancing immune cytotoxicity effect of 5-FU sensitizing the anti-PD-L1 antibody in vivo and in vitro was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and western blot assays. Results showed that 5-FU and anti-PD-L1 antibody combination increased the expression of PD-L1 and IFN-γ, and infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes in pancreatic xenograft tumor tissues, which was proven by immunohistochemistry and western analysis. Moreover, the combination with the 5-FU remarkably enhanced the immune cytotoxicity of anti-PD-L1 antibodies in mice. In vitro analysis demonstrates that 5-FU increases the expression of PD-L1 on the surface of pancreatic cancer cell lines via up-regulating nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and Protein kinase B (AKT) pathways. This synergistic effect could be abolished by NF-κB and AKT inhibitors.
Serum Cystatin S (CST4): A Novel Prognostic Marker for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Gu Chao , Chen Shan , Huang Lining , Cao Chenliang , Yuan Renshun , Kou Zhongyang , Chen Weiwei , Shi Haihua , Gu Xiaodong
Published: January 2025

Background:

Serum Cystatin S (CST4), a secretory protein that inhibits cellular matrix degradation, significantly influences the tumor microenvironment and tumor progression. However, the prognostic value of serum CST4 in gastric cancer (GC) remains unclear. This study aims to explore serum CST4’s utility in GC prognostic assessment.

Methods:

A cohort of 334 patients with GC who underwent radical gastrectomy was assessed. Preoperative serum CST4 levels were measured alongside traditional tumor markers, correlating with clinical data and patient outcomes. The cohort was divided into training and test sets at a ratio of 3:1 for Cox regression analyses, which identified CST4 as an independent risk factor for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). A prognostic model was developed, validated with calibration curves, and its predictive value was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. In addition, CST4 expression was correlated with immune cell infiltration using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Patients were stratified by median CST4 levels, and Kaplan-Meier curves for OS and DFS were plotted.

Results:

Cystatin S was confirmed as an independent risk factor for OS and DFS. Integrating CST4 with traditional markers and TNM pathological staging significantly enhanced the predictive value for prognosis. Cystatin S’s impact on tumor progression is likely mediated through modulation of the immune microenvironment, including immune suppression and evasion.

Conclusion:

Cystatin S is an effective biomarker for GC prognostic assessment, assisting in the evaluation of prognosis and the selection of treatment strategies for patients with GC.
Transforming grayscale MRI images to color utilizing generative artificial intelligence to better understand multiple sclerosis
Authors: Okuda Darin T. , Lebrun-Frénay Christine
Published: January 2025

Multiple sclerosis (MS) falls within the spectrum of central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating diseases that may lead to permanent neurological disability. Fundamental to the diagnosis and clinical surveillance is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that allows for the identification of T2-hyperintensities associated with autoimmune injury that demonstrate distinct spatial distribution patterns. Here, we describe the clinical experience of a 31-year-old, right-handed, White man seen in consultation at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, following complaints of headaches that began after head trauma related to military service. Imaging data spanning over 10 years are provided. All MRI data are currently presented in black and white with grayscale values within voxels associated with a single variable, intensity. We transformed these grayscale values into color using generative artificial intelligence (AI). As color allows for the inclusion of three variables: hue, lightness (intensity), and saturation, we hypothesized that additional details may be learned beyond those currently provided with the existing conventional approach of grayscale interpretation. We identified differences in lesion colors that remained consistent from the two MRI timepoints studied. In addition, quantitative R1, R2, and proton density voxel values appeared consistent with the color scheme generated by the AI system. With advancing AI methods and capabilities along with the additional data that color provides in comparison to grayscale, new insights into the biology of disease may be possible. Modifying what we measure in people with chronic conditions and how we present the data may be of greater value than conventional approaches typically used in the study, education, and care of people with MS and other neurological conditions.
Human recombinant interferon beta in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: preliminary observations
Authors: Fieschi C , Pozzilli C , Bastianello S , Koudriavtseva T , Gasperini C , Bozzao A , Galgani S , Paolillo A , Millefiorini E , Buttinelli C , Perciaccante G , Piazza G , Bozzao L
Published: January 2025

An open comparative, randomized trial with recombinant human interferon beta (r-hIFN-β) involving 72 patients with clinically definite and/or laboratory-supported relapsing-remitting MS is in progress at the University ‘La Sapienza’ and at the S. Camillo Hospital of Rome. After a 6 month period of clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) observation (baseline findings), patients are randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups receiving 3 or 9 MIU of recombinant human IFN-β (r-hIFN-β) self-administered by subcutaneous injection three times a week for 6 months. All patients are examined by MRI with and without gadolinium (Gd-DTPA) every 4 weeks for the entire duration of the study (12 months). The main aim of the study is to test the hypothesis that r-hIFN-β may halt or slow the progression of the disease by showing a significant reduction in MRI activity. This will be achieved by comparing pre and post-treatment periods. As an additional clinical end point, the exacerbation rate during these two periods will be compared. This study began in June 1993 and the final analysis of MRI data is planned for the spring of 1995.
Recombinant human interferon beta in the treatment of relapsing - remitting and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sandberg-Wollheim M , Hommes OR , Hughes RAC , Paty DW , Abdul-Ahad AK
Published: January 2025

Two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-ontrolled phase III studies to evaluate the safely and efficacy of 6 and 12 MIU of recombinant human interferon beta (r-hIFN-β) (Rebif) given subcutaneously three times per week, in patients with MS, are described. In one study, patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis are treated for 24 months; the primary efficacy end point is the number of exacerbations. In the other study patients with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis are treated for 36 months; the primary efficacy end point is time to sustained progression in disability as determined by the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Both studies are conducted in centers in Europe, Australia and Canada.
Guidelines for early treatment trials in patients presenting with clinical and paraclinical abnormalities which put them at high risk for conversion to multiple sclerosis
Authors:   European Charcot Foundation Working Group for Treatment Trials, Clanet M , Comi G , Fernandez O , Gonsette RE , Hommes O , Hartung H-P , Sorensen P Soelberg , Thompson EJ
Published: January 2025

Several recent dinical trials have shown that interferon beta, a rather well-tolerated therapy, can favourably alter the pathological disease activity in MS, decrease the frequency of relapses and slow down the progression of the disability. Clinical and biological observations suggest that immune abnormalities in MS can be corrected more easily during the first stages of the disease, and thus early treatments may be more effective. In addition, the results of the Optic Neuritis Treatment Trial suggest that administration of a therapy immediately after the first attack may delay the occurrence of subsequent signs and/or symptoms and, by the same token, the conversion to clinically definite MS. Moreover, we know that the dinical activity of the disease during the early stage is strongly predictive of the subsequent evolution. For all these reasons, it seems thus justified to evaluate whether treatment with effective and well-tolerated drugs can retard the long-term disability and improve the quality of life of patients who present with clinical signs and paraclinical tests which put them at high risk of developing MS.
Real-world evidence of ocrelizumab in Chilean patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: del Canto Adolfo , Cárcamo Claudia , Garcia Lorena , Aylwin Ester , Jürgensen-Heinrich Lukas , Guzman-Carcamo Ignacio , de la Barra Juan , Gutierrez-Calquin Leticia , Barrera-Hormazabal Antonia , Cruz Juan Pablo , Bravo Sebastián , Pelayo Carolina , Soler Bernardita , Uribe-San-Martin Reinaldo , Ciampi Ethel
Published: January 2025

Background:

Real-world studies are needed to expand our knowledge concerning populations underrepresented in clinical trials.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of ocrelizumab in Hispanic/Latino people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).

Methods:

Prospective longitudinal observational study including pwMS who received at least one dose of ocrelizumab between June 2018 and October 2023.

Results:

A total of 305 pwMS (223 relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS), 29 secondary progressive MS (SPMS), and 53 primary progressive MS (PPMS)), 67% female, mean age 38.7, mean disease duration 7 years, and median Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 2.0 (range 0–7). Median follow-up under ocrelizumab 29.5 (range 6–65) months. Only 1 patient had a relapse, 12-week-confirmed disability worsening was observed in 12.4% of the full cohort. Survival analysis showed higher risk of 12-week-confirmed disability worsening in SPMS compared with RRMS and PPMS ( p = 0.0009). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) activity was significantly reduced from baseline across all disease phenotypes. Serious infections were observed in 4.6%, and two patients died during follow-up (one serious COVID-19 and one metastatic cancer). Notably, 22 pregnancies were reported, with 11 newborns and 6 pregnancies still on course.

Conclusion:

This study supports the effectiveness of ocrelizumab in a real-world cohort of individuals from traditionally underrepresented groups, such as the Latin American population, with a consistent safety profile in patients receiving care at a specialized MS Unit.
The impact of extreme climate on tourism sector international stock markets: A quantile and time-frequency perspective
Authors: Wu Ran , Zeng Hongjun , Abedin Mohammad Zoynul , Ahmed Abdullahi D
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to investigate the heterogeneous effects of the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) on the tourism Sector of International Stock Markets under varying climate conditions and time-frequency using the Quantile-on-Quantile Regression (QQR) method, the quantile Granger-causality test and Wavelet Coherence method. The study’s findings reveal that: (1) Pacific Rim countries exhibited greater sensitivity to SOI fluctuations, while developed markets demonstrated greater resilience; (2) the quantile Granger-causality test revealed a strong causal relationship between the SOI and tourism indices, particularly during periods of moderate market fluctuations (at the 0.25 and 0.75 quantiles); (3) since 2022, climate sensitivity of tourism markets has intensified, especially in the mid-frequency domain; and (4) during the COVID-19 pandemic, the results remained robust, suggesting that the influence of extreme climate on the tourism market persisted. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the effects of extreme seasonal phenomena on the tourism industries of different countries but also provide insights for the tourism market’s adaptation to climate change.
Screening pediatric patients to determine need for child life services using the pediatric emotional safety screener
Authors: Staab Jennifer H , Tong Suhong , Gerson Jennifer S , Simonsen Claire E
Published: January 2025

There can be adverse psychosocial outcomes for children who have negative healthcare experiences. Identifying children’s risk for experiencing elevated distress early on when entering the healthcare setting would allow targeted, proactive support to help mitigate negative psychological sequelae. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Pediatric Emotional Safety Screener (PESS), designed to screen for psychosocial distress for pediatric patients. A Child Life Department conducted a program evaluation, screening 1643 patients using the PESS in six different service areas including acute inpatient, critical care, emergency department, radiology, surgery, and ambulatory clinics. Certified child life specialists (CCLS) completed a Psychosocial Risk Assessment in Pediatrics (PRAP) and provided their assessment of priority level for child life support for each patient screened. Secondary analysis of the data evaluated the psychometric properties of the PESS. Findings indicated good internal consistency for the PESS. PESS scores significantly correlated with both PRAP scores and CCLS priority level. The PESS is a promising standardized method for health-care providers to screen pediatric patients' risk for experiencing significant distress during their healthcare visit to determine the need for support from a CCLS.
Research note: Conceptualizing destination repulsion
Authors: Abraham Villy , Israeli Aviad A.
Published: January 2025

Despite the importance of understanding the different aspects of tourists’ preferences and decisions, the study of repulsion in the tourism literature is scant. This research note conceptualizes tourist repulsion and situates it within tourists’ decision-making processes. Destination repulsion is conceptualized based on related literature. The distinction between repulsion and other negative emotions, such as animosity and fear, is delineated by drawing on the food, consumer animosity, and brand management streams of research. Using a systematic qualitative method to review the related tourism literature, tourist repulsion is conceptualized as a mediator between animosity and destination avoidance. Furthermore, while animosity is conceptualized to be associated with both destination repulsion and destination avoidance, destination repulsion is conceptualized as only related to destination avoidance. Gaps are identified in the literature, most notably that previous research focused on consumer repulsion with food products. Still, few studies focus on non-food products in general and services in particular. The paper concludes with suggestions for future research. Using social listening tools to monitor commentary about the brand and active engagement with it may assist DMOs in mitigating short-term effects.
A holistic assessment of crisis management in tourism from a demand-supply perspective - lessons learnt from COVID-19
Authors: Chen Zhaoyu , Tan Jialong
Published: January 2025

Along with the shifting of COVID-19 from pandemic to endemic, tourism sectors have learnt to promptly respond to the crisis while minimizing the negative impacts to both visitors and locals. Considering that there is no single research on tourism crisis management combining both demand-supply perspective, especially covering both local’s and visitor’s opinions, this study provides a holistic assessment of three key stages of crisis management in tourism (i.e., pre-crisis, during-crisis and post-crisis) that covering a wide range of sectors including culture, retail and hotel. Using the case of Macao, a total of 66 interviews were conducted during and after the COVID-19 including 31 service providers and 35 service demanders. It is found both tourism service providers and customers (including locals) have endured a growing process of changing perceptions and experiences with the pandemic. This study contributes to the research field by outlining a holistic framework for tourism crisis management. It also provides the practical insights for the service providers in adjusting the coping strategies of crisis in a continuous manner while considering customers’ changing consumption patterns.
Graduate nurses caring for people living with dementia: A scoping review
Authors: Jose Jerric , Jacob Elisabeth , Alexander Louise
Published: January 2025

Background: Adequate dementia care knowledge of graduate nurses is essential for the wellbeing of both people living with dementia as well as the graduate nurses caring for them. Little is known about the dementia care knowledge, experience or confidence of graduate nurses caring for people living with dementia. This paper aims to review the available literature on graduate nurses caring for people living with dementia. Design: A scoping review of literature based on the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. Methods: From April 2023 to August 2023, searches were conducted in databases which included CINAHL, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Trove and Google search. All articles related to the question “what literature is available on graduate nurses caring for people living with dementia” published in English were included in this scoping review.
Fluorescent inks and their potential applications in textile printing
Authors: Ahmed K. A. , Ahmed Ebtsam A.
Published: January 2025

Products made of fluorescent textiles have a variety of applications, most notably as smart textiles for human safety during outdoor sports, as well as for detecting authenticity and avoiding counterfeiting. Fluorescence in smart fabrics is obtained via dyeing or printing the fabrics by fluorescent inks which based on organic fluorescent dyes, rare earth metal, dendrimers. This review highlights and discuss the fundamental ideas of fluorescence, fluorescent coloring materials (organic or inorganic), the processes used to prepare some fluorescent dyes, ink formulations, and other related topics. Additionally, we have discussed their capacity to print on various surfaces using various printing methods by reviewing current advancements made to clear the way for further studies in this area.
Diffractive Debriefing: A Different Approach to Participant Debriefing
Authors: Bowen-Viner Kate
Published: January 2025

In this article, I consider diffractive approaches to participant debriefing. In other words, I consider how the feminist relational materialist philosopher Karen Barad’s concept of diffraction can be utilised as an innovative approach to participant debriefing. I start this article by explaining how feminist relational materialist philosophers have troubled the philosophical assumptions underpinning traditional approaches to participant debriefing. I then consider how feminist relational materialism has contributed to post-qualitative approaches to research which involve utilising philosophical concepts as methods. Adopting a post-qualitative approach, I go on to present Karen Barad’s concept of diffraction as a participant debriefing method that involves participants, researchers and non-humans contributing to research projects becoming different. As part of this, I consider diffractive debriefing in the context of a research project with 21 school pupils in the Southwest of England that involved young people telling stories about menstruation in their everyday lives. In doing so, I describe the diffractive debriefing workshops that were part of such a project. I then draw on such workshops to describe three general principles that I followed when developing a diffractive approach to participant debriefing. The general principles I discuss are: (1) Researchers should avoid instructing participants about what happened in a research project (2) Diffractive debriefing should not finalise what a research project can become and (3) Diffractive debriefing involves an approach to ethics that foregrounds response-ability. I finish the article by considering how diffractive debriefing could be part of research projects beyond my research project which focused on young people and their menstruation stories.
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) for Journalism Studies: Making Sense of Journalists’ Sense-Making of Digital Disruptions
Authors: Firdaus Amira , Aksar Iffat Ali , Gong Jiankun , Zaiamri Zainal Abidin Muhammad , ur Rasheed Baloch Haroon , Gomez Edward
Published: January 2025

Despite the field’s interdisciplinary nature, academic specialization and the academic norm of in-field referencing have limited the scope of possibility that journalism studies may draw upon fields not part of its interdisciplinary repertoire. This paper invites readers to explore Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), a rich analytical tradition from qualitative psychology and health studies and demonstrates its applicability in journalism research. By analyzing in-depth interviews with journalists at the cusps of two epochal ages of digital disruption in journalism—the rise of user-generated content (UGC) and social network sites around 2010, and the current explosion of generative AI—we show how IPA can serve as a powerful approach for journalism researchers. Paying tribute to the journalist as ‘expert’ of their own occupational lived experience, IPA provides a nuanced understanding of how journalists negotiate technological transformations in their occupational spaces. Through a triple hermeneutic analysis, where researchers attempt to make sense of journalists critically making sense of UGC and AI as a journalistic tool while reflectively engaging in sense-making of what it means to be a journalist in the age of social media and the age of AI, we explore the profound implications of these digital disruptions. Thematic findings reveal occupational identity crises, ethical dilemmas, and organizational challenges, all within the context of methodological reflection. This study underscores the value of IPA in capturing the depth and reflexivity of journalists’ sense-making during significant technological transformations, advocating for a reflective turn in journalism research.
Variable Imaging Appearances and Diagnostic Certainty Challenges in Confirming Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours (NET): A Case Report
Authors: Bambhania Kamal J , Shorvon Dr Philip
Published: January 2025

Introduction:

A pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (NET) originates from the neuroendocrine cells responsible for producing and releasing hormones. They are uncommon findings, mainly seen arising from the head of the pancreas and their appearances may vary among different imaging modalities.

Case report:

Interesting case of an asymptomatic patient with an incidental finding of a pancreatic lesion and its variable appearances across different modalities and final histology findings.

Discussion:

Ultrasound (US) is the most requested examination as an imaging modality due to its easy accessibility, affordability, and real time assessment feature. This case shows that ultrasound examination although deemed poor in assessing pancreas due to its location and overlying bowel gas, however, can play a vital role especially among asymptomatic patients. It discusses the range of differentials diagnoses including pancreatic NET, Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST), adenocarcinoma, mucinous cystic neoplasm, and a pseudo papillary neoplasm due to variable imaging appearances of the pancreatic lesion on US and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Results were reviewed in the Upper Gastrointestinal Multidisciplinary teams meeting and Endoscopic ultrasound scan (EUS) with tissue sampling was undertaken to confirm the diagnosis. The patient underwent prophylactic surgery, and the histology report concluded that the lesion to be a pancreatic NET.

Conclusion:

To conclude, we felt that sharing this interesting complex case was important as it highlights the difficulty in diagnostic certainty when dealing with a pancreatic lesion due to its variability in presentation on different modalities and the requirement of multidisciplinary team approach.
Supporting autistic children and their families: A guide for GPs
Authors: Virji Safiya , Hill Hannah , Potter Elizabeth , Grimstvedt Claire , McHugh Fiona
Published: January 2025

Recognising autism in children is a crucial skill for GPs, but the varied ways in which autism can present often make this challenging. Although being autistic is not a deficit, the interaction between autism and the environment plays a significant role in outcomes, with autistic individuals facing daily challenges and experiencing significant health disparities. GPs must feel confident in their knowledge to make informed, compassionate healthcare decisions to mitigate these impacts in primary care. This article explores why autistic children present to GPs and outlines strategies for GPs to deliver neurodiversity-affirming healthcare, promoting better outcomes, more inclusive support and ensuring that every child receives care tailored to their individual needs. Case presentations are included to illustrate recognition of key signs of autism, how to address co-existing conditions and the provision of tailored support for families.
Hepatobiliary and pancreatic manifestations in inflammatory bowel disease: an umbrella review of meta-analyses
Authors: Hong Runsheng , Li Zhixue , Li Meng , Dai Yun
Published: January 2025

Background:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), can affect the hepatobiliary system and pancreas, substantially impacting the life quality of patients.

Objectives:

To evaluate the quality of evidence and comprehensively assess the validity of associations of IBD with hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases.

Design:

We performed an umbrella review of existing meta-analyses in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations.

Data sources and methods:

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to April 2024, to identify and appraise meta-analyses examining IBD and risk of hepatobiliary and pancreatic manifestations. Methodologic quality was assessed with A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2) and the strength of evidence was graded according to prespecified criteria.

Results:

A total of 14 meta-analyses of observational studies were included. The strongest-validity evidence suggested the significant associations between IBD and risk of gallstones (odds ratio (OR) = 1.72; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.40–2.12) and acute pancreatitis (OR = 3.11; 95% CI = 2.93–3.30). Highly suggestive evidence indicated a significantly increased risk of hepatobiliary cancer in UC (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 2.05; 95% CI = 1.52–2.76) and CD (IRR = 2.31; 95% CI = 1.25–4.28). In addition, highly suggestive evidence indicated that IBD was associated with portal venous system thrombosis. Suggestive evidence showed a significantly higher prevalence of primary sclerosing cholangitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, and autoimmune pancreatitis in IBD patients than in the general population.

Conclusion:

The associations between IBD and multiple hepatobiliary and pancreatic disorders showed varying levels of evidence and magnitude of risk. Further high-quality primary studies are needed to identify IBD patients who are more at risk and would benefit the most from screening and prevention programs.

Trial registration (PROSPERO):

CRD42023451461.
A case series of new-onset headache and neurological issues after thoracolumbar spinal cord stimulators
Authors: Kalaiyarasan Ramkumar , Pushparaj Hemkumar , Sharma Manohar
Published: January 2025

Although spinal cord stimulator (SCS) therapy is generally used safely to treat chronic neuropathic pain conditions, this document highlights the less reported complication of unusual neurological problems including headaches. These developed temporally after the initiation of SCS therapy despite initial positive response to pain. The mechanisms might include activation of trigeminal receptors and neuroplasticity after SCS. We present a series of four cases where patients developed new neurological symptoms like headaches, facial twitching, and tinnitus, that were related to SCS activation. Despite adjustments to the SCS settings and extensive evaluations, these symptoms persisted in all cases, leading to the decision to explant SCS which was otherwise helping pain.