bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural equation modeling for identifying the drivers of health-related quality of life improvement experienced by patients with migraine receiving eptinezumab
Authors: Jönsson Linus , Awad Susanne F. , Regnier Stephane A. , Talon Brian , Kymes Steven , Lee Xin Ying , Goadsby Peter J.
Published: March 2024

Background

As new migraine therapies emerge, it is crucial for measures to capture the complexities of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) improvement beyond improvements in monthly migraine day (MMD) reduction. Investigations into the correlations between MMD reduction, symptom management, and HRQoL are lacking, particularly those that focus on improvements in canonical symptoms and improvement in patient-identified most-bothersome symptoms (PI-MBS), in patients treated with eptinezumab. This exploratory analysis identified efficacy measures mediating the effect of eptinezumab on HRQoL improvements in patients with migraine.

Methods

Data from the DELIVER study of patients with 2–4 prior preventive migraine treatment failures (NCT04418765) were inputted to two structural equation models describing sources of HRQoL improvement via Migraine-Specific Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (MSQ) scores. A single latent variable was defined to represent HRQoL and describe the sources of HRQoL in DELIVER. One model included all migraine symptoms while the second model included the PI-MBS as the only migraine symptom. Mediating variables capturing different aspects of efficacy included MMDs, other canonical symptoms, and PI-MBS.

Results

In the first model, reductions in MMDs and other canonical symptoms accounted for 35% (standardized effect size [SES] − 0.11) and 25% (SES − 0.08) of HRQoL improvement, respectively, with 41% (SES − 0.13) of improvement comprising “direct treatment effect,” i.e., unexplained by mediators. In the second model, substantial HRQoL improvement with eptinezumab (86%; SES − 0.26) is due to MMD reduction (17%; SES − 0.05) and change in PI-MBS (69%; SES − 0.21).

Conclusions

Improvements in HRQoL experienced by patients treated with eptinezumab can be substantially explained by its effect on migraine frequency and PI-MBS. Therefore, in addition to MMD reduction, healthcare providers should discuss PI-MBS improvements, since this may impact HRQoL. Health technology policymakers should consider implications of these findings in economic evaluation, as they point to alternative measurement of quality-adjusted life years to capture fully treatment benefits in cost-utility analyses.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT04418765; EudraCT (Identifier: 2019–004497-25; URL: https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/search?query=2019-004497-25).

Graphical Abstract
Comparison of integron mediated antimicrobial resistance in clinical isolates of Escherichia coli from urinary and bacteremic sources
Authors: Kumar Gauri , Balakrishna Keshava , Mukhopadhyay Chiranjay , Kalwaje Eshwara Vandana
Published: March 2024

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat driven mainly by horizontal gene transfer (HGT) mechanisms through mobile genetic elements (MGEs) including integrons. The variable region (VR) of an integron can acquire or excise gene cassettes (GCs) that confer resistance to antibiotics based on the selection pressure. Escherichia coli plays a significant role in the genetic transfer of resistance determinants to other Gram-negative bacteria. Current study is aimed to detect and compare integron-mediated resistance in clinical isolates of E. coli. Unique isolates of E. coli from urine or blood cultures were studied for their antimicrobial resistance patterns and integrons were detected using polymerase chain reaction assays followed by Sanger sequencing of GCs.

Results

During the study period, a total of 470 E. coli isolates were obtained, 361 (76.8%) from urinary and 109 (23.1%) from bacteremic sources. Class 1 integrons were detected in 66 (18.2%) and 26 (23.8%) isolates respectively. Urinary isolates of E. coli harbouring Class 1 integrons demonstrated significantly higher rates of resistance (p < 0.05) for most antibiotics (12/16, 75%) compared to integron negative isolates. Although not statistically significant, similar differences were observed in bacteremic isolates. Among the urinary isolates, 27 (40.9%) had a VR, in which the most common GC array detected was DfrA17-AadA5 (n = 14), followed by DfrA5 (n = 4) and DfrA12 (n = 3). Among bacteremic isolates, only 4 (15.3%) had a VR, all of which were carrying DfrA17. The detected GC array correlated with the respective isolates’ phenotypic resistance patterns.

Conclusion

We found a strong correlation between integron positivity and trimethoprim resistance among E. coli from urinary sources. Although higher rates of resistance were observed in bacteremic isolates, they mostly carried empty integrons.
An examination of anxiety and its influence on health-related quality of life in Parkinson’s disease using the geriatric anxiety scale: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Heimrich Konstantin G. , Schönenberg Aline , Mendorf Sarah , Moussaoui Juliane , Prell Tino
Published: March 2024

Background

Anxiety is one of the most common but often overlooked mood-related nonmotor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). To improve the well-being of people with PD, it is important to understand the impact of anxiety in PD, especially its association with depressive and motor symptoms and its impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

91 people with PD were assessed between June 2017 and June 2018. Anxiety was measured using the Geriatric Anxiety Scale (GAS) and its cognitive, somatic, and affective subscales. HRQoL was assessed using the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire 39 (PDQ-39). Moreover, sociodemographic information, depressive symptoms, cognition, motor and nonmotor symptoms were assessed. Descriptive statistics, regression analyses, and path analyses were performed to understand predictors of anxiety and its influence on HRQoL.

Results

Of the 91 people with PD, 35 (38.5%) experienced anxiety. Anxiety symptoms in these individuals primarily manifest as somatic sensations. Anxiety, motor, and depressive symptoms are interlinked but contribute individually to HRQoL. Beyond motor symptoms, cognitive and affective aspects of anxiety impact HRQoL. While anxiety and depression overlap, the somatic and cognitive aspects of anxiety play a significant role in determining HRQoL in addition to depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

Our study used the GAS and its three subscales to shed light on the connections between anxiety, depression, and motor impairment in people with PD. Although anxiety is linked to depression and motor symptoms, it independently affects the HRQoL of people with PD. Thus, it is crucial to adopt a comprehensive diagnostic approach that detects and considers the impact of anxiety on HRQoL in PD.
A survey of perceptions of exposure to new technology in residents and practicing ophthalmologists
Authors: Meer Elana , Davidson Krista , Ingenito Kristen Harmon , Brodie Frank , Schallhorn Julie M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Incorporation of the rapid advances in ophthalmologic surgical and diagnostic techniques inherent in the field poses a challenge to residency training programs. This study investigates exposure to new technologies during residency and perception of its impact on practice patterns.

Methods

Ophthalmology residents at various training levels and practicing ophthalmologists who had completed their training were invited to participate in a survey study assessing exposure to various technologies in residency and in practice. Data collection occurred from December 2022 to June 2023. Descriptive statistics were performed.

Results

The study received 132 unique responses, including 63 ophthalmology residents and 69 practicing ophthalmologists. 65.2% (n = 45) of practicing ophthalmologists and 47.6% (n = 30) of current residents reported discussion/training on newly developed products on the market (e.g. premium IOLS, MIGS), was “minimally discussed but not emphasized” or “not discussed at all” in residency. 55.1% (n = 38) of practicing ophthalmologists reported that exposure to new technologies during residency did influence types of technologies employed during practice. The majority resident physicians reported enjoying being trained on newer technology and feeling more prepared for future changes in the field (95.2%, n = 60) and felt that having industry partnerships in residency enhances education and training (90.5%, n = 57).

Conclusions

Considering how to maximize exposure to newer technologies/devices during residency training is important, and may contribute to training more confident, adaptable surgeons, who are more likely to critically consider new technologies and adopt promising ones into their future clinical practice.
Gender-specific pathways in mental health crisis in adolescents, from consultation to (in)voluntary admission: a retrospective study
Authors: Dil Linda , Mérelle Saskia , Lommerse Nick , Peen Jaap , So Pety , Van Rien , Zoeteman Jeroen , Dekker Jack
Published: March 2024

Background

A strong increase in mental health emergency consultations and admissions in youths has been reported in recent years. Although empirical evidence is lacking, gender differences in risk of admission may have contributed to this increase. A clearer understanding of the relationship, if any, between gender and various aspects of (in)voluntary care would help in more evidence-based service planning.

Methods

We analysed registry data for 2008–2017 on 3770 outpatient emergencies involving young people aged 12 to 18 years from one urban area in the Netherlands, served by outreaching psychiatric emergency services. These adolescents were seen in multiple locations and received a psychosocial assessment including a questionnaire on the severity of their problems and living conditions. Our aims were to (a) investigate the different locations, previous use of mental health service, DSM classifications, severity items, living conditions and family characteristics involved and (b) identify which of these characteristics in particular contribute to an increased risk of admission.

Results

In 3770 consultations (concerning 2670 individuals), more girls (58%) were seen than boys. Boys and girls presented mainly with relationship problems, followed by disruptive disorders and internalizing disorders. Diagnostic differences diminished in hospitalisation. More specifically, disruptive disorders were evenly distributed. Suicide risk was rated significantly higher in girls, danger to others significantly higher in boys. More girls than boys had recently been in mental health care prior to admission. Although boys and girls overall did not differ in the severity of their problems, female gender predicted admission more strongly. In both boys and girls severity of problems and lack of involvement of the family significantly predicted admission. Older age and danger to others significantly predicted admission among boys, whereas psychosis, suicidality and poor motivation for treatment predicted admission among girls.

Conclusion

There are different pathways for youth admission, which can partly be explained by different psychiatric classifications as well as gender-specific differences with regard to age, suicide risk, danger to others and the influence of motivation for treatment. Finally, for both genders, family desire for hospitalisation is also an important predictor.
Dietary diversity and its determinants among women of reproductive age residing in the urban area of Nouakchott, Mauritania
Authors: Issa Mariem Youssouf , Diagana Yacouba , Khalid EL Kari , Coulibaly Sidi Mohamed , Gueye Alioune , Dehah Rabab. M.H. , Vall Ould EL Kebir Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Background

The intake of nutrient-rich foods from diverse diets ensures adequate nutrition for women. This study aims to determine dietary diversity among women of reproductive age (WRA) using the MDD-W indicator and how it relates to their socio-economic characteristics in the city of Nouakchott, Mauritania.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 women of reproductive age, aged 15–49 years. Food consumption data were obtained through unquantified 24 h recall which is designed to identify all foods consumed by the women during this period. We computed MDD-W as the consumption of at least five out of ten predefined food groups according to the guideline of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. In order to determine which factors had a statistically significant influence on dietary diversity among women, we used a value ofP < 0.05.

Results

The mean of dietary diversity was 5.48 and 71.7% of WRA had an acceptable minimum dietary diversity. During the study period, 96.25% and 80% of women consumed vitamin A and iron-rich foods respectively. The consumption rate of starchy foods, vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, meat, fish and chicken, milk and dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables and finally other vegetables was higher; 99.6%, 75.3%, 80%, 62.5%, 60.4% and 83.3% respectively. On the other hand, the consumption of legumes, eggs and other fruits was low; at 21.7%, 14.2% and 13.8% respectively.

Conclusions

The study showed that more than half of the studied population had an acceptable minimum dietary diversity. The diet was mainly based on the consumption of starchy foods, meat and other vegetables than those rich in vitamin A.
One-year trajectories of nutritional status in perimenopausal women: a community-based multi-centered prospective study
Authors: Liao Shujuan , Zhao Li , Huang Chuanya , Xiong Anqi , Xiong Weijun , He Yirong , Huang Xiao , Hunter Victoria , Luo Biru
Published: March 2024

Background

Nutritional status is a modifiable factor associated with perimenopausal women’s health and quality of life. Assessing body composition indicators helps to comprehensively understand nutritional status compared with using body mass index (BMI) only. However, few published studies measured the trends in body composition among perimenopausal women.

Objectives

To assess the one-year trajectory of the nutritional status of perimenopausal women and to explore its influential factors.

Methods

A community-based observational study with 3-wave repeated measurements at 6-month intervals was carried out. The nutritional status indicators include weight, body mass index (BMI), and body composition variables. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to assess body composition. Repeated measures ANOVA and Chi-square test were used to calculate the changes in nutritional status and generalized estimating equations were performed to explore their influential factors.

Results

2760 participants completed the study. Increasing trajectories in weight (from 56.05 ± 7.55 to 57.02 ± 7.60), fat mass (from 17.99 ± 4.80 to 20.49 ± 4.90), and waist-hip ratio (from 0.86 ± 0.04 to 0.91 ± 0.15) were found (P < 0.001). Decreasing trajectories in skeletal muscle (from 20.30 ± 2.38 to 19.19 ± 2.46), protein level (from 7.39 ± 0.79 to 7.06 ± 0.81), and total body water (from 27.87 ± 2.92 to 27.00 ± 3.01) were found (P < 0.001). Being married/unmarried with a partner and without negative life events were associated with higher total body water, skeletal muscle, and protein level, while negatively associated with fat mass and waist-hip ratio. Age was positively associated with fat mass (P < 0.001). Participants with junior high school education were prone to increased fat mass (P = 0.018) compared with those holding primary school education and below. A per capita monthly income of 1500 to 3000 Yuan was associated with higher total body water, skeletal muscle, and protein level (P < 0.001) compared with a per capita monthly income of less than 1500 Yuan.

Conclusion

Worsening nutritional status exists in perimenopausal women, which is characterized by increased weight, fat mass, and waist-hip ratio, and decreased skeletal muscle, total body water, and protein level. For greater efficiency, precision nutritional interventions are needed, and recipients should be classified into different risk levels based on their sociodemographic background.
Connecting families: a qualitative study examining the experiences of parenting young children under financial strain in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Martin Mary I. , Mauer-Vakil Dane , Borkhoff Cornelia M. , Parkin Patricia C. , Bayoumi Imaan
Published: March 2024

Background

There is little research investigating the subjective experiences of parenting young children while living in poverty and experiencing financial strain using qualitative methodologies. Therefore, the objective of this study was to employ a qualitative approach to provide a nuanced and balanced view on the topic of parenting young children under financial strain in the Canadian context.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews between July and August 2021 in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Sixteen participants aged 20–39 self-identified as living under financial strain while parenting a child aged 2–5 years. A qualitative inductive thematic analysis was undertaken with a focus on describing the contents of the data.

Results

Four major themes emerged from the data: experience of being a parent, impact of financial strain on the family unit, impact of financial strain on the children, and impact of financial strain on the parent. Numerous deleterious physical, mental, and material impacts on the family unit and parent were identified, however parent-perceived impacts of financial strain on their children were minimal. Parents described striking levels of resourcefulness and resiliency in providing the necessities for their families, absorbing the most significant impacts of financial strain through the phenomenon of self-sacrifice.

Conclusion

The impacts of financial strain on families with young children are far reaching. Further research into the impacts of self-sacrifice on parents experiencing financial strain are needed to better understand this issue, and to inform social programming and resources that could help alleviate the deleterious impacts of poverty on parent mental, social, and physical health.
Medical students’ knowledge and attitude toward brain death and the influence of medical education: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Liu Chang , Liu Shiqing
Published: March 2024

Background

The medical students’ knowledge and attitude toward brain death has not been investigated in China. The aims of this study were to assess the knowledge and attitude toward brain death among medical students in China and assess the influence of medical education on the knowledge and attitude.

Methods

An online questionnaire consisting of 17 questions was developed and completed by undergraduates majoring in clinical medicine in China Medical University. The students’ demographic data, knowledge and attitude toward brain death were collected and analyzed.

Results

A total of 1075 medical students participated in the survey, and 1051 of them completed the valid questionnaire. The exploratory factor analysis grouped the 17 items into four dimensions, which explained 63.5% of the total variance. These dimensions were named as knowledge (5 items), attitude (5 items), concern (3 items) and education needs (4 items) respectively. The global Cronbach α of the questionnaire was 0.845 and the Cronbach α of the four dimensions ranged from 0.756 to 0.866. The mean dimension scores of knowledge, attitude, concern and education needs was 3.67 ± 0.89, 3.67 ± 0.87, 3.10 ± 1.03 and 4.12 ± 0.72 respectively. The clinical students had a better knowledge than the preclinical students (P < 0.001). The clinical students had a more favorable attitude in stopping the treatment for a brain-dead family member and using the organs and/or tissues of brain-dead patients for transplantation (P < 0.001). The clinical students showed more concerns than the preclinical students (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the education needs between the clinical and pre-clinical students.

Conclusions

Most medical students in China had insufficient knowledge about brain death. Although their knowledge of brain death increased with their university degree, their attitude toward organ donation after brain death did not evolve accordingly. Their concerns about brain death increased with seniority. Most students had great education needs about brain death.
Improving acute myocardial infarction care in northern Tanzania: barrier identification and implementation strategy mapping
Authors: Hertz Julian T , Sakita Francis M , Prattipati Sainikitha , Coaxum Lauren , Tarimo Tumsifu G , Kweka Godfrey L , Mlangi Jerome J , Stark Kristen , Thielman Nathan M , Bosworth Hayden B , Bettger Janet P
Published: March 2024

Background

Evidence-based care for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) reduces morbidity and mortality. Prior studies in Tanzania identified substantial gaps in the uptake of evidence-based AMI care. Implementation science has been used to improve uptake of evidence-based AMI care in high-income settings, but interventions to improve quality of AMI care have not been studied in sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants from key stakeholder groups (patients, providers, and healthcare administrators) in northern Tanzania. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted using a guide informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Interview transcripts were coded to identify barriers to AMI care, using the 39 CFIR constructs. Barriers relevant to emergency department (ED) AMI care were retained, and the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) tool was used to match barriers with Level 1 recommendations for targeted implementation strategies.

Results

Thirty key stakeholders, including 10 patients, 10 providers, and 10 healthcare administrators were enrolled. Thematic analysis identified 11 barriers to ED-based AMI care: complexity of AMI care, cost of high-quality AMI care, local hospital culture, insufficient diagnostic and therapeutic resources, inadequate provider training, limited patient knowledge of AMI, need for formal implementation leaders, need for dedicated champions, failure to provide high-quality care, poor provider-patient communication, and inefficient ED systems. Seven of these barriers had 5 strong ERIC recommendations: access new funding, identify and prepare champions, conduct educational meetings, develop educational materials, and distribute educational materials.

Conclusions

Multiple barriers across several domains limit the uptake of evidence-based AMI care in northern Tanzania. The CFIR-ERIC mapping approach identified several targeted implementation strategies for addressing these barriers. A multi-component intervention is planned to improve uptake of evidence-based AMI care in Tanzania.
Lipid droplet accumulation in Wdr45-deficient cells caused by impairment of chaperone-mediated autophagic degradation of Fasn
Authors: Xiong Qiuhong , Sun Huimin , Wang Yanlin , Xu Qian , Zhang Yu , Xu Mei , Zhao Zhonghua , Li Ping , Wu Changxin
Published: March 2024

Background

β-Propeller protein-associated neurodegeneration (BPAN) is a genetic neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in WDR45. The impairment of autophagy caused by WDR45 deficiency contributes to the pathogenesis of BPAN; however, the pathomechanism of this disease is largely unknown. Lipid dyshomeostasis is involved in neurogenerative diseases, but whether lipid metabolism is affected by Wdr45 deficiency and whether lipid dyshomeostasis contributes to the progression of BPAN are unclear.

Methods

We generated Wdr45 knockout SN4741 cell lines using CRISPR‒Cas9-mediated genome editing, then lipid droplets (LDs) were stained using BODIPY 493/503. Chaperone-mediated autophagy was determined by RT-qPCR and western blotting. The expression of fatty acid synthase (Fasn) was detected by western blot in the presence or absence of the lysosomal inhibitor NH4Cl and the CMA activator AR7. The interaction between Fasn and HSC70 was analyzed using coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) assay. Cell viability was measured by a CCK-8 kit after treatment with the Fasn inhibitor C75 or the CMA activator AR7.

Results

Deletion of Wdr45 impaired chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA), thus leading to lipid droplet (LD) accumulation. Moreover, Fasn can be degraded via CMA, and that defective CMA leads to elevated Fasn, which promotes LD formation. LD accumulation is toxic to cells; however, cell viability was not rescued by Fasn inhibition or CMA activation. Inhibition of Fasn with a low concentration of C75 did not affect cell viability but decreases LD density.

Conclusions

These results suggested that Fasn is essential for cell survival but that excessive Fasn leads to LD accumulation in Wdr45 knockout cells.
Intra-pulmonary migration of a clavicle osteosynthesis pin: a case report
Authors: Amara Kaouther Ben , Zairi Sarra , Radhia Bechir Ben , Abdennadher Mahdi , Zribi Hazem , Marghli Adel
Published: March 2024

Background

Fractures of the clavicle are common injuries, which often require reduction and internal fixation. Although Kirschner pins have been commonly used to treat these fractures with good results, migration of these devices may result in severe internal lesions.

Case presentation

We report herein the case of 61-year-old man, who presented for intrapulmonary migration of a Kirschner pin, 25 years after closed reduction and fixation of a clavicle fracture.

Conclusion

Migration of an osteosynthesis pin can be lethal. Patients with osteosynthesis pins, should have a regular follow, until the removal of the wires.
Fracture toughness of aged oil paints
Authors: Janas Arkadiusz , Avgerou Nefeli , Charalambides Maria N. , Fuster-López Laura , Bratasz Łukasz
Published: March 2024

The fracture toughness in opening mode G

Ic
for selected oil paints from Mecklenburg's Paint Reference Collection after approximately 30 years of natural ageing was determined using the procedure adopted from the ASTM D5528–13 standard in which double cantilever beam specimens are split in tensile tests. The careful reglueing procedure allowed multiple fracturing tests to be carried out that not only improved statistics of the measurements but also provided insight into the variation of the fracture toughness across the paint film observed for some paints. The latter was due to pigment sedimentation or chemical change of the oil binder as a result of the easier access of oxygen from the side open to the air. For the lead white paint, used over centuries both in paint films and oil grounds, the G

Ic
values more than doubled from 18 to 39 J/m2 for three consecutive cracks formed at an increasing distance from one side of the paint film. The study demonstrated that fracture toughness corresponding to the first crack formation in aged oil paints ranged between 10 and 40 J/m2, relatively low values compared to the animal glue-based ground in paintings. In consequence, oil paints are more vulnerable to crack initiation and growth induced by tensile stress than the ground layer. The measurements filled the gap in the knowledge required for the analysis of fracturing or delamination processes in paintings.
Real-World Overall Survival and Treatment Patterns by PTEN Status in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Gupta Shilpa , To Tu My , Graf Ryon , Kadel Edward E. , Reilly Norelle , Albarmawi Husam
Published: March 2024

PURPOSE

It is estimated that the PTEN tumor suppressor gene is functionally lost in 40%-50% of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). There is limited information on the prognostic significance of PTEN status identified with genomic testing. This real-world cohort study assessed PTEN as a genetic biomarker using data from US-based oncology practices.

METHODS

This retrospective real-world cohort study used a deidentified US-based metastatic prostate cancer clinicogenomic database linked to longitudinal clinical data derived from electronic health records. Patients were aged 18 years and older and diagnosed with mCRPC between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2021. Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) of tumor specimens was performed using next-generation sequencing. First-line (1L) and second-line (2L) treatment patterns were assessed and stratified by PTEN status. Kaplan-Meier methods and a multivariable Cox model were used to compare the real-world overall survival by PTEN status among patients who received 1L novel hormone therapy or taxanes.

RESULTS

In patients with mCRPC who underwent CGP, PTEN loss of function (LOF) was associated with decreased survival compared with intact PTEN (hazard ratio, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.07 to 2.42]; P = .024). The results were not influenced by 1L treatment type. 1L treatment patterns were similar between intact PTEN and PTEN LOF subgroups, with abiraterone and enzalutamide being the two most common treatments in both groups. Patients with PTEN LOF were less likely to receive 2L treatments than patients with intact PTEN.

CONCLUSION

PTEN LOF, identified with genomic testing, was associated with decreased survival and negative prognoses in patients with mCRPC.
From Image to Flesh in a World Seen from the South
Authors: Shamel Salma , Wilder Gary
Published: March 2024

This interview with the intellectual historian Gary Wilder explores the philosophical and methodological theses in his overall work, particularly focusing on his 2022 book Concrete Utopianism. The conversation explores such themes as relationships among solidarity, filiality, and freedom; the forces and fears of normative claims; the definition of an image; and the place of the flesh in a critical Marxism, among others. This is the second conversation in a series initiated by Salma Shamel (PhD candidate at New York University) with anthropologists, historians, philosophers, and media theorists whose work is located at the intersection of intellectual history, critical theory, and historical change.
Redesigning the US Army’s Branching Process: A Case Study in Minimalist Market Design
Authors: Greenberg Kyle , Pathak Parag A. , Sönmez Tayfun
Published: March 2024

We present a proof-of-concept for minimalist market design (Sönmez 2023) as an effective methodology to enhance an institution based on stakeholders’ desiderata with minimal interference. Four objectives— respecting merit, increasing retention, aligning talent, and enhancing trust—guided reforms to the US Army’s centralized branching process of cadets to military specialties since 2006. USMA’s mechanism for the class of 2020 exacerbated challenges in implementing these objectives. Formulating the Army’s desiderata as rigorous axioms, we analyze their implications. Under our minimalist approach to institution redesign, the Army’s objectives uniquely identify a branching mechanism. Our design is now adopted at USMA and ROTC. (JEL D47, H56, J45)
The Opportunity Cost of Debt Aversion
Authors: Martínez-Marquina Alejandro , Shi Mike
Published: March 2024

We provide evidence of the existence of debt aversion and its negative implications for financial decisions. In a new experimental design where subjects are assigned debt randomly, we quantify the opportunity cost of subjects’ debt-biased decisions. One-third of our participants neglect high returns and focus instead on debt repayments. In addition, borrowing to invest is 50 percent less likely when it leads to indebtedness. On average, participants perceive $1 less in debt as equivalent to $1.03 in savings. Hence, a debt-averse agent will undertake a 10 percent guaranteed investment only if the cost of borrowing does not exceed 6.80 percent. (JEL C91, D91, G51)
Procesy demograficzne w miejskich obszarach funkcjonalnych w Polsce
Authors: Szafranek-Stefaniuk Edyta
Published: March 2024

Procesy demograficzne zachodzą współcześnie w Polsce z coraz większą intensywnością, stanowiąc efekt oraz czynnik kształtowania pozostałych sfer funkcjonowania jednostek terytorialnych. Zjawisko to dotyczy również miejskich obszarów funkcjonalnych (MOF), w których miasto centralne (rdzeń) jest silnie powiązane funkcjonalnie z otoczeniem, na które składają się obszary wiejskie i małe miasta. Celem artykułu jest zbadanie zakresu, kierunków i tempa zmian procesów demograficznych w MOF w latach 2014–2022. Ponadto dążono do wskazania typów demograficznych badanych MOF-ów. W badaniach wzięto do analizy 24 MOF-y, rozumiane jako jednostki sformalizowane w formie związków Zintegrowanych Inwestycji Terytorialnych (ZIT). Zastosowano metody teoretyczne i empiryczne, mieszane, tj. jakościowe i ilościowe. Punktem wyjścia była krytyczna analiza piśmiennictwa, a wymiar praktyczny badań oparto na metodach opisu statystycznego, przede wszystkim zastosowano analizę struktury obiektów oraz analizę dynamiki zjawisk. Wykorzystano metody opisowe, porównawcze oraz klasyfikacyjne. Badania oparto na wyselekcjonowanych wskaźnikach statystycznych pozyskanych powinno być: z baz danych BDL i Strateg z zasobów Głównego Urzędu Statystycznego (GUS). Uzyskane wyniki wskazują, że w analizowanym okresie zachodziły istotne zmiany demograficzne w MOF-ach, w tym m.in. wzrost zaludnienia, niekorzystne tendencje w zakresie ruchu naturalnego skutkujące starzeniem się społeczeństwa, napływ migracyjny w ruchu wewnętrznym. Ponadto ustalono, że odmiennie kształtują się procesy demograficzne w obszarach funkcjonalnych największych miast i miast subregionalnych. Wzrastała liczba ludności MOF ukształtowanych wokół największych miast i była ona generowana przede wszystkim dodatnim bilansem migracyjnym, natomiast zmniejszało się zaludnienie większości MOF miast subregionalnych, głównie ze względu na ubytek w ruchu naturalnym.
Macrobenthic fauna and the ecological status of a shellfish farm in the Mediterranean Sea (Algeria)
Authors: DILMI SONIA , BACHETARZI RYM , REBZANI-ZAHAF CHAFIKA
Published: March 2024

A faunistic and ecological study on the benthic macrofauna was carried out in the shellfish farm in Ain Chorb (Ain Taya), central Algeria. This study aims to characterise the composition, structure, and functioning of the benthic community to establish the reference state and ecological quality of the shellfish farm and to monitor its evolution through an adapted sampling and observation methodology adapted and used by the scientific community at the international level. Benthic fauna samples were collected in two different periods (warm and cold season) between February 2020 and June 2021; six grab samples were carried out at three sampling stations. Different indices were evaluated based on the benthic community characteristics (species richness, abundance, density, ecological and trophic groups, and the biotic index) and indicator species. An inventory of the macrobenthic fauna of the farm allowed us to identify 6 phyla, 10 classes, 48 families, 106 genera, and 138 species, with a total of 45960 ind/m2. The benthic assemblage is characterised by the dominance of the species Abra alba, Salvatoria clavata, Caecum spp., and Bittium spp. The results of the four benthic indices (the Shannon-Weaver diversity index [H′], the AZTI Marine Biotic Index [AMBI], the multivariate AZTI Marine Biotic Index [M-AMBI], and the BENTIX) indicated that that the sampling stations have a moderate and good ecological status. These results were confirmed by the abundance/biomass comparison curves and geometric abundance class methods. This study provides the first inventory and represents the reference state of the soft-bottom communities of the aquaculture farm. The findings also indicate that the macrobenthic assemblage is excellent indicator of the ecological status.
Are People Willing to Pay for Reduced Inequality?
Authors: Hill Brian , Lloyd Thomas
Published: March 2024

Would consumers be willing to pay more for goods for which there is less inequality in wages across those involved in their production? In incentive-compatible behavioral choice studies on representative samples of the English and U.S. populations, we find significantly positive willingness to pay for such inequality reductions in more than 80% of subjects. Although it varies with political leaning and the extent of the inequality reduction, willingness to pay is positive across the political spectrum and for all studied inequality differences. It is higher for more intuitive and informative inequality-reporting formats. Our findings have policy implications for both governments and firms. On the one hand, they suggest the promise of universal provision of product-level inequality information as a tool for moderating income inequality. On the other hand, they highlight the potential relevance of inequality reporting for firms’ marketing strategies.

This paper was accepted by Dorothea Kübler, behavioral economics and decision analysis.

Funding: This work was supported by the Agence Nationale de la Recherche [LabEx Ecodec/ANR-11-LABX-0047] and the Fondation HEC [Budget F].

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01974 .
Application of Drip Irrigation System on Vanilla Cultivation
Authors: Nadzirah Rufiani , Mas'udi Ach. Fauzan Mas'udi , Indarto Indarto , Ernanda Heru , Joan Pamungkas Ivo
Published: March 2024

Background: The research in Jogoyudan Village, Lumajang District, identifies a significant gap in community income, land utilization, and entrepreneurial skill development, which is addressed through a community empowerment program focusing on vanilla cultivation training. The primary research gap highlighted is the low community income, underutilized yard spaces, and inadequate training and workshops to improve entrepreneurship skills among residents. These challenges are critical in a community where agriculture is dominant but lacks diversification and modern cultivation techniques.
Contribution: This community service aims to improve knowledge of cultivating vanilla and making drip irrigation. Through this activity, it is hoped that the community will get additional income from the vanilla cultivation business.
Method: This study includes pre-training, training, and post-training. The training employs socialization regarding vanilla cultivation techniques and drip irrigation. The next step is the direct practice of planting and pollinating vanilla as well as the practice of assembling drip irrigation. In this activity, 25 people were selected as training participants.
Results: This service program shows increased knowledge of vanilla cultivation and drip irrigation by 38%.
Conclusion: The training participants can independently cultivate vanilla and create drip irrigation in the yard. This activity received an excellent response from the training participants regarding facilitators, facilities, presenters, and. Participants were very enthusiastic and enthusiastic about cultivating vanilla in their yards
Enjoying the journey
Authors: Brown Clementine Rees , Brewster Alice
Published: March 2024

Clementine Rees Brown speaks to Alice Brewster as she ponders all she has learned during her dynamic career in dentistry and social media.
Weighing up the choices
Authors: Davids Adam
Published: March 2024

Adam Davids reviews the link between body weight and oral health.
Mum's the word
Authors: Lloyd-Rees Kimberley
Published: March 2024

Kimberley Lloyd-Rees discusses how pregnant women can maintain good oral health with the right proactive efforts.
Time to optimise
Authors: Ganeswaran Loven
Published: March 2024

Loven Ganeswaran details how best to improve oral hygiene for orthodontics.
Optimising safety
Authors: Varney Nicky
Published: March 2024

Nicky Varney details how a high-quality, systematic approach to decontamination promotes the highest standard of patient and professional safety.
Your direct kidney connection
Authors: Federation National Kidney
Published: March 2024

The National Kidney Federation are a primary resource if you, or your patients, are seeking additional renal information and support
The role of the clinical research nurse in kidney settings
Authors: Kuningasi Kulli , Anderson Nicola , Jones Emma , Brand Sarah
Published: March 2024

The ANN UK clinical research nurse survey offers a snapshot into the roles of clinical research nurses working within kidney care, and some of the main challenges they face
Strengthening the professional status of the social care workforce: what England can learn from other countries
Authors: Oung Camille
Published: March 2024

Camille Oung discusses what strategies other countries are implementing to improve recruitment and retention in social care, and what England can learn from these.
Posterior tibialis tendon entrapment as a complication of posterior malleolar fractures in complex ankle fractures
Authors: Syziu Anxhela , Aamir Junaid , Mason Lyndon William
Published: March 2024

Aims

Posterior malleolar (PM) fractures are commonly associated with ankle fractures, pilon fractures, and to a lesser extent tibial shaft fractures. The tibialis posterior (TP) tendon entrapment is a rare complication associated with PM fractures. If undiagnosed, TP entrapment is associated with complications, ranging from reduced range of ankle movement to instability and pes planus deformities, which require further surgeries including radical treatments such as arthrodesis.

Methods

The inclusion criteria applied in PubMed, Scopus, and Medline database searches were: all adult studies published between 2012 and 2022; and studies written in English. Outcome of TP entrapment in patients with ankle injuries was assessed by two reviewers independently.

Results

Four retrospective studies and eight case reports were accepted in this systematic review. Collectively there were 489 Pilon fractures, 77 of which presented with TP entrapment (15.75%). There were 28 trimalleolar fractures, 12 of which presented with TP entrapment (42.86%). All the case report studies reported inability to reduce the fractures at initial presentation. The diagnosis of TP entrapment was made in the early period in two (25%) cases, and delayed diagnosis in six (75%) cases reported. Using modified Clavien-Dindo complication classification, 60 (67%) of the injuries reported grade IIIa complications and 29 (33%) grade IIIb complications.

Conclusion

TP tendon was the commonest tendon injury associated with pilon fracture and, to a lesser extent, trimalleolar ankle fracture. Early identification using a clinical suspicion and CT imaging could lead to early management of TP entrapment in these injuries, which could lead to better patient outcomes and reduced morbidity.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2024;5(3):252–259.
The process of becoming independent of foster care pupils in Poland – challenges and prospects
Authors: Kanios Anna , Lada Anna , Bocheńska-Brandt Anna
Published: March 2024

Cel pracy

Celem badań było poznanie opinii kadry zarządzającej instytucjami pomocy społecznej na temat procesu usamodzielniania wychowanków pieczy zastępczej

Materiał i metody

Metodą badań był sondaż diagnostyczny, zaś narzędziem badawczym kwestionariusz ankiety na temat procesu usamodzielnienia wychowanków pieczy zastępczej dla kadry zarządzającej instytucjami pomocy społecznej (aut. Anny Kanios). Badania przeprowadzono osobiście w okresie czerwiec-październik 2023 roku. Terenem badań było województwo lubelskie, zaś w sensie instytucjonalnym były to Powiatowe Centra Pomocy Rodzinie.

Wyniki

Wyniki badań wskazują, iż w ciągu ostatnich lat liczba rodzin zastępczych w Polsce maleje. Wychowankowie najczęściej podejmują decyzje o usamodzielnieniu z powodu chęci opuszczenia placówki opiekuńczo-wychowawczej /rodziny zastępczej, chęci podjęcia pracy i życia na własny rachunek. PCPR-y jako podmioty organizujące pieczę zastępczą największy problem w procesie usamodzielnienia upatrują w trudnościach w zapewnieniu lokalu mieszkalnego. W Polsce nie funkcjonuje jeden program usamodzielnienia. Każdy powiat go sobie wypracowuje. Opiekunowie usamodzielnienia nie są w stanie wywiązywać się w pełni ze swej funkcji ze względu na zbiurokratyzowanie zadań.

Wnioski

Konieczne wydaje się zreformowanie systemu pieczy zastępczej. Odciążenie opiekunów usamodzielnienia oraz koordynatorów pieczy zastępczej poprzez zmniejszenie zadań związanych z dokumentacją na rzecz realnej pracy z rodziną i wychowankiem. Ważne wydaje się również prowadzenie monitoringu losów osób usamodzielnionych. Dodatkowym wsparciem warto objąć kadrę oraz rodziców zastępczych poprzez prowadzenie dodatkowych szkoleń, warsztatów, spotkań informacyjnych.
The core process of disseminating human resource management improvement patterns emerging from the consultants' offers
Authors: Strużyna Janusz Antoni
Published: March 2024

Cel pracy

1. identyfikacja rdzenia tytułowego procesu oraz jego porównanie ze znanymi typami wzorów zmian doskonalących zarządzanie
2. wypracowanie propozycji i tematów, wzbogacających wiedzę o procesach doskonalenia ZZL, w tym procesach izomorfizmu instytucjonalnego

Materiał i metody

Studia literatury pozwoliły określić wzory zmian doskonalących zarządzanie. Przedmiotem badań empirycznych była treść polskojęzycznych ofert, zamieszczonych na stronach WWW. firm konsultingowych, doskonalących Zarządzanie Zasobami Ludzkimi. Analizę prowadzono w oparciu o wytyczne analiz treści i metod jakościowych badań. Otrzymane wyniki analizy zestawiono z wzorami teoretycznymi zmian. W ten sposób zidentyfikowano cechy badanego rdzenia.

Wyniki

Zidentyfikowany tytułowy rdzeń tworzą cztery fazy i trzy procesy o odmiennej logice. Wzajemne oddziaływanie procesów może tworzyć niespójność całego rozwiązania. Stwierdzono dominację zachowań zabezpieczających i ułatwiających operacje ZZL nad innymi typami zachowań menedżerskich. Sposobów radzenia sobie z tą asymetrią w ofertach nie podano.

Wnioski

Stwierdzone niespójności procesów doskonalących, powinny zachęcać praktyków do określenia poziomu ich akceptacji dla heterogeniczności wzorów doskonalenia. Do tego zaś niezbędne jest rozwijania praktycznych kompetencji w zarządzaniu sprzecznościami. Przyszłe badania naukowe powinny, z kolei, przynieść pełniejsze rozpoznanie specyfiki różnych źródeł wzorców, charakteru operacji wykonywanych na wzorach przez różne podmioty, identyfikacja niespójności procesów rozpowszechniania wzorów. Wartościowe jest także zwrócenie uwagi na specyfikę sił izomorfizmu instytucjonalnego, które kształtują podobieństwo wzorów i sposobów ich rozpowszechniania. W celu ukonkretnienia przyszłych zamierzeń badawczych w pracy sformułowano trzy, konkretne propozycje badawcze
Supporting the development of girls with ADHD in early childhood education: teachers' and parents' perspectives
Authors: Świecarz Grzegorz Paweł
Published: March 2024

Cel pracy

Artykuł koncentruje się na rozpoznawaniu i adresowaniu wyzwań związanych z ADHD u dziewczynek w wieku wczesnoszkolnym. Praca ma na celu wypełnienie luki w literaturze naukowej poprzez skupienie się na specyfice ADHD u dziewczynek, co różni się od objawów u chłopców. Ma również zwiększyć świadomość zagadnienia ADHD wśród rodziców i nauczycieli oraz dostarczyć praktycznych wskazówek terapeutycznych i wsparcia edukacyjnego, które są dostosowane do potrzeb dziewczynek z ADHD.

Materiał i metody

Materiałami źródłowymi, które posłużą do niniejszej publikacji, będą różne monografie i artykuły pedagogów specjalnych. Zebrany materiał pozwoli na syntetyczne zrealizowanie metodą analityczno-krytyczną wskazanego celu pracy.

Wyniki

Rodzice powinni nauczyć się przewidywać potencjalne konfliktowe sytuacje, wykluczyć je albo tak zaplanować, aby dziecko mogło sobie z nimi poradzić. Zadaniem rodziców jest zaplanować dzień w taki sposób, aby wprowadzić rytuał i codzienną rutynę powtarzania czynności. Dzieci z nadpobudliwością psychoruchową potrzebują nabyć umiejętności radzenia sobie z konfliktami, labilnością emocjonalną, lękiem i stresem.

Wnioski

Często niezdiagnozowane dziewczynki cierpią w samotności razem ze swoim zaburzeniem. Ścisła współpraca rodziców i nauczycieli stanowi nieodzowny element w terapii ADHD. Dziecku z ADHD powinno umożliwić się uczestnictwo w procesie edukacyjno-wychowawczym. Ważną kwestią jest poznanie grupy rówieśniczej, aby dziewczynki z ADHD mogły uczyć poznawać siebie i własne reakcje oraz swoje możliwości i zdolności.