bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low transthyretin concentration linked to adverse prognosis in elderly inpatients
Authors: Wang Ting , Yang Zhi-kai , Wan Yu-hao , Chai Ke , Li Ying-ying , Luo Yao , Zeng Min , Sun Ning , Zou Song , Wang Hua
Published: October 2024

Background

To investigate the association between low transthyretin (prealbumin) concentration and mortality or readmission for all causes in elderly inpatients.

Methods

This analysis is based on a prospective cohort study conducted from September 2018 to April 2019 in ten wards of three tertiary referral hospitals in Beijing. Patients aged 65 years or older were enrolled, and their clinical data, laboratory test results, and auxiliary test results for patients were collected. A three-year follow-up was conducted with patients. Based on the 5th and 95th percentiles of transthyretin concentration, patients were split into three groups. The correlation between transthyretin concentration and the outcome of elderly hospitalized patients was investigated. The primary outcome of the research was death or readmission from all causes within three years.

Results

Among the 636 individuals in the study, 335 (52.7%) were males, with a median age of 74.7 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 69.3–80.1). During a median follow-up period of 1,099.0 days (IQR: 1,016.3-1,135.0), 363 individuals (57.0%) experienced all-cause mortality or readmission events. Patients with transthyretin concentrations at or below the 5th percentile had a significantly increased risk of all-cause mortality or readmission compared to those with concentrations between the 5th and 95th percentiles (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.25; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.55–3.26). Even after adjusting for potential confounders, low transthyretin concentration remained an independent risk factor for poor prognosis in elderly inpatients (HR: 1.84; 95% CI: 1.03–3.28). Since women have consistently lower baseline transthyretin levels than men, we performed gender-specific analysis. We found that low transthyretin concentration is an independent risk factor for adverse prognosis in elderly male inpatients (HR: 2.99; 95% CI: 1.35–6.62) but not in females.

Conclusions

Low transthyretin concentrations are associated with increased all-cause mortality or readmission in elderly inpatients, particularly among male patients.

Graphical Abstract
Assessing the change in prevalence and characteristics of canadians utilizing chiropractic services across two time periods 2001–2010 and 2015–2018: a population-based repeated cross-sectional study
Authors: Mior Silvano , Wang Dan , Wong Jessica J. , Hogg-Johnson Sheilah , Côté Pierre
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite increases in musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in Canada, evidence suggests utilization of chiropractic services has remained relatively stable over time. Understanding the extent to which chiropractors are consulted and factors associated with their utilization may suggest factors related to accessing care. We assessed the change in prevalence and characteristics of Canadians seeking chiropractic care across two time periods 2001–2010 and 2015–2018.

Methods

We used national cross-sectional data from seven cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey between 2001 and 2018. The survey included Canadians aged 12 years and older living in private dwellings in all provinces and territories. National annual weighted prevalence and age-standardized weighted prevalence (and 95% confidence intervals) of chiropractic utilization were calculated. We calculated prevalence of chiropractic utilization stratified by demographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle and health-related variables. Crude linear trends and change in prevalence from 2001 to 2010 were assessed using linear regression models.

Results

The national annual prevalence of Canadians consulting a chiropractor in the previous 12 months slightly increased from 11.0% (95% CI 10.8, 11.3) in 2001 to 11.4% (95%CI 11.1, 11.7) in 2010, and in those reporting receiving regular health care from a chiropractor from 7.5% (95%CI 7.2, 7.7) in 2015 to 7.9% (95%CI 7.7, 8.2) in 2018. Prevalence of utilization varied by province, highest in the Western provinces but lowest in Atlantic provinces. The age-specific prevalence of chiropractic utilization was highest in those aged 35–49 years and remained stable over time, except for slight increase in those aged 65–79 years. A higher percentage of Canadians identifying as white, Canadian-born, in the highest quintile of household income, overweight, physically active and in excellent health reported seeking chiropractic services. The most common reported chronic conditions measured in the survey among Canadians consulting chiropractors were chronic back problems, arthritis, fibromyalgia and headaches.

Conclusion

The national prevalence of utilization of chiropractic services among Canadians slightly increased over time but varied by province and respondents’ socioeconomic and health characteristics. Chronic back problems were the most common reported chronic condition. This comprehensive population-based study on chiropractic utilization in Canada can be used to inform decisions concerning health human resources and access to rehabilitation care for MSD.
Exploring action-oriented models via active inference for autonomous vehicles
Authors: Nozari Sheida , Krayani Ali , Marin Pablo , Marcenaro Lucio , Gomez David Martin , Regazzoni Carlo
Published: October 2024

Being able to robustly interact with and navigate a dynamic environment has been a long-standing challenge in intelligent transportation systems. Autonomous agents can use models that mimic the human brain to learn how to respond to other participants’ actions in the environment and proactively coordinate with the dynamics. Modeling brain learning procedures is challenging for multiple reasons, such as stochasticity, multimodality, and unobservant intents. Active inference may be defined as the Bayesian modeling of a brain with a biologically plausible model of the agent. Its primary idea relies on the free energy principle and the prior preference of the agent. It enables the agent to choose an action that leads to its preferred future observations. An exploring action-oriented model is introduced to address the inference complexity and solve the exploration–exploitation dilemma in unobserved environments. It is conducted by adapting active inference to an imitation learning approach and finding a theoretical connection between them. We present a multimodal self-awareness architecture for autonomous driving systems where the proposed techniques are evaluated on their ability to model proper driving behavior. Experimental results provide the basis for the intelligent driving system to make more human-like decisions and improve agent performance to avoid a collision.
A bayesian shared component spatial modeling approach for identifying the geographic pattern of local associations: a case study of young offenders and violent crimes in Greater Toronto Area
Authors: Law Jane , Abdullah Abu Yousuf Md
Published: October 2024

Background setting

Traditional spatial or non-spatial regression techniques require individual variables to be defined as dependent and independent variables, often assuming a unidirectional and (global) linear relationship between the variables under study. This research studies the Bayesian shared component spatial (BSCS) modeling as an alternative approach to identifying local associations between two or more variables and their spatial patterns.

Methods

The variables to be studied, young offenders (YO) and violent crimes (VC), are treated as (multiple) outcomes in the BSCS model. Separate non-BSCS models that treat YO as the outcome variable and VC as the independent variable have also been developed. Results are compared in terms of model fit, risk estimates, and identification of hotspot areas.

Results

Compared to the traditional non-BSCS models, the BSCS models fitted the data better and identified a strong spatial association between YO and VC. Using the BSCS technique allowed both the YO and VC to be modeled as outcome variables, assuming common data-generating processes that are influenced by a set of socioeconomic covariates. The BSCS technique offered smooth and easy mapping of the identified association, with the maps displaying the common (shared) and separate (individual) hotspots of YO and VC.

Conclusions

The proposed method can transform existing association analyses from methods requiring inputs as dependent and independent variables to outcome variables only and shift the reliance on regression coefficients to probability risk maps for characterizing (local) associations between the outcomes.
A cluster analysis of attachment styles in patients with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder and ADHD
Authors: Kouros I. , Isaksson M. , Ekselius L. , Ramklint M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Insecure adult attachment has been associated with psychiatric disorders characterized by emotional dysregulation, such as borderline personality disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder (BD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, little is known about the differences in attachment patterns between these diagnostic groups. The aim of this study was to identify clusters of adult attachment style in a cross-diagnostic group of patients with BDP and/or BD and/or ADHD and explore the characteristics of these clusters based on temperament profile, childhood trauma and psychiatric diagnoses.

Methods

K-means cluster analysis was used to identify subgroups, based on the Attachment Style Questionnaire Short Form dimensions, in a clinical cohort of 150 young adults (113 women and 37 men, mean age ± SD = 23.3 ± 2.1) diagnosed with BPD, and/or BD, and/or ADHD.

Results

Three distinct clusters were identified: a secure, an insecure/avoidant-anxious and an insecure/avoidant cluster. These three clusters differed in temperament profile and related psychiatric diagnoses.

Conclusions

The three clusters of attachment in individuals with BPD, BD and/or ADHD could support differentiation between the disorders as well provide information usable for planning of treatment.
Development and evaluation of a standardised sampling protocol to determine the effect of cleaning in the pig sty
Authors: Dahlin Lisa , Hansson Ingrid , Fall Nils , Sannö Axel , Jacobson Magdalena
Published: October 2024

Background

All-in, all-out with strict hygienic routines is necessary in modern pig production. Furthermore, a standardised, validated method is needed to quantitatively control the effect of these hygiene protocols. This study aimed to establish a reproducible and reliable sampling method to assess cleaning of the pig pen.

Methods

Sterilised pig faeces were mixed with indicator bacteria (i.e. Enterococcus hirae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus) and spread out in a controlled environment. The retrieval rate of three different sampling methods were evaluated; swabbing by (i) a cloth and (ii) a sponge, analysed by standardised bacterial culture and counting of colony-forming units, and (iii) a cotton swab analysed by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence. Two time-points were evaluated during the study; after drying overnight and after manual scraping of the surfaces. To determine sample-to-sample variability, sampling by the cloth and the cotton swab was carried out after manual scraping and further, after high-pressure washing with cold water.

Results

Sampling by the cloth and the sponge showed few differences in in the number of CFU obtained before and after the manual scraping (retrieval rate), whereas the swabs, measuring ATP bioluminescence, showed a very high retrieval rate. Sample-to-sample variability was low for all three methods.

Conclusions

In conclusion, to sample pens for the presence of bacteria, the cloth was assessed as the preferable material, being cheap, easy, specific, and approachable, and with a low sample-to-sample variability. The ATP measurement could have potential for use when evaluating the cleaning of stables, however, threshold values for evaluating the cleaning of a pig sty needs to be developed.
Probing clarity: AI-generated simplified breast imaging reports for enhanced patient comprehension powered by ChatGPT-4o
Authors: Maroncelli Roberto , Rizzo Veronica , Pasculli Marcella , Cicciarelli Federica , Macera Massimo , Galati Francesca , Catalano Carlo , Pediconi Federica
Published: October 2024

Background

To assess the reliability and comprehensibility of breast radiology reports simplified by artificial intelligence using the large language model (LLM) ChatGPT-4o.

Methods

A radiologist with 20 years’ experience selected 21 anonymized breast radiology reports, 7 mammography, 7 breast ultrasound, and 7 breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), categorized according to breast imaging reporting and data system (BI-RADS). These reports underwent simplification by prompting ChatGPT-4o with “Explain this medical report to a patient using simple language”. Five breast radiologists assessed the quality of these simplified reports for factual accuracy, completeness, and potential harm with a 5-point Likert scale from 1 (strongly agree) to 5 (strongly disagree). Another breast radiologist evaluated the text comprehension of five non-healthcare personnel readers using a 5-point Likert scale from 1 (excellent) to 5 (poor). Descriptive statistics, Cronbach’s α, and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used.

Results

Mammography, ultrasound, and MRI showed high factual accuracy (median 2) and completeness (median 2) across radiologists, with low potential harm scores (median 5); no significant group differences (p ≥ 0.780), and high internal consistency (α > 0.80) were observed. Non-healthcare readers showed high comprehension (median 2 for mammography and MRI and 1 for ultrasound); no significant group differences across modalities (p = 0.368), and high internal consistency (α > 0.85) were observed. BI-RADS 0, 1, and 2 reports were accurately explained, while BI-RADS 3–6 reports were challenging.

Conclusion

The model demonstrated reliability and clarity, offering promise for patients with diverse backgrounds. LLMs like ChatGPT-4o could simplify breast radiology reports, aid in communication, and enhance patient care.

Relevance statement

Simplified breast radiology reports generated by ChatGPT-4o show potential in enhancing communication with patients, improving comprehension across varying educational backgrounds, and contributing to patient-centered care in radiology practice.

Key Points

AI simplifies complex breast imaging reports, enhancing patient understanding.

Simplified reports from AI maintain accuracy, improving patient comprehension significantly.

Implementing AI reports enhances patient engagement and communication in breast imaging.

Graphical Abstract
Adaptation of the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA) in Hindi
Authors: Rachana Dhananjay , Rajalakshmi K.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The specific objectives of this study were as follows: (1) to translate and adapt the English version of the International Outcome Inventory for Hearing Aids (IOI-HA) into Hindi, (2) to present data obtained from the hearing aid users, (3) and to investigate the effect of different factors on effective hearing aid use using the Hindi version of the IOI-HA.

Method

The English version of IOI-HA was translated to Hindi by three native Hindi speakers who were proficient in both Hindi and English and had Hindi as their first language. The Hindi version of IOI-HA along with a demographic questionnaire was given to 100 experienced hearing aid users who were literate and more than 18 years of age.

Results

The findings indicated 53% of individuals utilize their hearing aids for over 8 h daily, while 46% use them for 4 to 8 h a day. A greater number of participants experienced benefits from wearing their hearing aids, suggesting their overall effectiveness for users. Also, 64% of people said their HA was fulfilling their expectations. Sixty-seven percent of participants said life has become quite a lot better with HA usage. The results revealed that age, gender, and type of hearing loss showed no significant association with any test item.

Conclusion

The Hindi version of the IOI-HA has proven to be a valuable self-assessment tool for hearing aid users. It aids clinicians and audiological practitioners in comprehending the challenges faced by users and can offer guidance for counseling and assessing the benefits derived from hearing aids.
A review of emerging hydroforming technologies: design considerations, parametric studies, and recent innovations
Authors: Chinchanikar Satish , Mulik Harsh , Varude Param , Atole Sameer , Mundada Neha
Published: October 2024

Hydroforming is a modern metal-forming process prominently used in the shipbuilding, aerospace, and automotive industries for forming lightweight, complex-shaped geometries due to their inherent process benefits. But this process faces challenges such as limited material selection, high tooling costs, and complex process control for obtaining a defect-free part with uniform thickness. Researchers are constantly innovating and advancing hydroforming technologies to overcome these limitations. This work reviews emerging tube and sheet hydroforming technologies, considering parametric effects and design considerations, particularly for micro-domain applications. Further, a wider acceptance of the hydroforming process in different industries is explored by discussing the studies that tried to improve the efficiency and quality of the hydroforming process. This study observed that better formability could be achieved in hydroforming with appropriate intermediate heat treatment, proper lubrication, the correct design of loading paths, and temperature distribution. In tube hydroforming, wrinkles, necking, and cracking observed to be largely reduced by properly selecting the internal pressure and feeding. The precise protrusion height and uniform thickness at different joint cross-sections in tube forming are found to be significantly influenced by the strain-hardening exponent, loading path, and friction coefficient. Electrohydraulic forming is found being increasingly used due to its higher productivity and lower product cost. However, further research is required to achieve complex sheet geometries with sharp corners. This research emphasizes that advanced research, artificial intelligence integration, and the exploration of alternative materials can improve the performance of the hydroforming process.
Perioperative intravenous lidocaine infusion for postsurgical pain management in bariatric surgery patients
Authors: Duarte-Medrano Gilberto , Nuño-Lámbarri Natalia , Dominguez-Franco Analucia , Lopez-Rodriguez Yazmin , Minutti-Palacios Marissa , Palacios-Chavarria Adrian , La Via Luigi , Paternò Daniele Salvatore , Misseri Giovanni , Cuttone Giuseppe , Sorbello Massimiliano , Dominguez-Cherit Guillermo , Escarramán Diego
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Obesity is one of the biggest modern health issues worldwide. Owing to the failure of both behavioral and pharmacological measures, the surgical approach has been established as the main conduct to follow, with bariatric surgery being one of the most effective and safe procedures. One of the bases for the optimal analgesic strategy is the use of adjuvants during the perioperative period. One of the main drugs in use is lidocaine.

Aim

To evaluate postoperative pain after perioperative lidocaine infusion in patients undergoing bariatric surgery and describe the presence of nausea and vomiting during the first 24 h.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery at ABC Medical Center. Two study arms were established: a group of patients who received lidocaine infusion and a control group. The presence of pain, nausea, or vomiting was evaluated upon admission to the recovery area and 1 h and 24 h after the intervention. The normal distribution of the data was first verified via the Shapiro–Wilk test. The data are presented as medians for quantitative variables and as frequencies for qualitative variables.

Results

A total of 50 surgeries were performed, with a significant correlation between lidocaine infusion and lower pain values at 1 h (p = 0.04). Similarly, there was a marked trend in the presence of nausea in control group 4 (18.6%) vs. 15 (53.5%).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the use of intraoperative lidocaine infusion is limited in postoperative pain management; nonetheless, it significantly improves the incidence of postoperative nausea.
Onvansertib in Combination With Chemotherapy and Bevacizumab in Second-Line Treatment of
KRAS
-Mutant Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Single-Arm, Phase II Trial
Authors: Ahn Daniel H. , Ridinger Maya , Cannon Timothy L. , Mendelsohn Lawrence , Starr Jason S. , Hubbard Joleen M. , Kasi Anup , Barzi Afsaneh , Samuëlsz Errin , Karki Anju , Subramanian Ramanand A. , Yemane Divora , Kim Roy , Wu Chu-Chiao , Croucher Peter J.P. , Smeal Tod , Kabbinavar Fairooz F. , Lenz Heinz-Josef
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

This phase II study evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of onvansertib, a polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) inhibitor, in combination with fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan (FOLFIRI) + bevacizumab for the second-line treatment of
KRAS
-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This multicenter, open-label, single-arm study enrolled patients with
KRAS
-mutated mCRC previously treated with oxaliplatin and fluorouracil with or without bevacizumab. Patients received onvansertib (15 mg/m
2
once daily on days 1-5 and 15-19 of a 28-day cycle) and FOLFIRI + bevacizumab (days 1 and 15). The primary end point was the objective response rate (ORR), and secondary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS), duration of response (DOR), and tolerability. Translational and preclinical studies were conducted in
KRAS
-mutant CRC.

RESULTS

Among the 53 patients treated, the confirmed ORR was 26.4% (95% CI, 15.3 to 40.3). The median DOR was 11.7 months (95% CI, 9.4 to not reached). Grade 3/4 adverse events were reported in 62% of patients. A post hoc analysis revealed that patients with no prior bevacizumab treatment had a significantly higher ORR and longer PFS compared with patients with prior bevacizumab treatment: ORR of 76.9% versus 10.0% (odds ratio of 30.0,
P
< .001) and median PFS of 14.9 months versus 6.6 months (hazard ratio of 0.16,
P
< .001). Our translational findings support that prior bevacizumab exposure contributes to onvansertib resistance. Preclinically, we showed that onvansertib inhibited the hypoxia pathway and exhibited robust antitumor activity in combination with bevacizumab through the inhibition of angiogenesis.

CONCLUSION

Onvansertib in combination with FOLFIRI + bevacizumab showed significant activity in the second-line treatment of patients with
KRAS
-mutant mCRC, particularly in patients with no prior bevacizumab treatment. These findings led to the evaluation of the combination in the first-line setting (ClinicalTrails.gov identifier:
NCT06106308
).
Expert-Guided Large Language Models for Clinical Decision Support in Precision Oncology
Authors: Lammert Jacqueline , Dreyer Tobias , Mathes Sonja , Kuligin Leonid , Borm Kai J. , Schatz Ulrich A. , Kiechle Marion , Lörsch Alisa M. , Jung Johannes , Lange Sebastian , Pfarr Nicole , Durner Anna , Schwamborn Kristina , Winter Christof , Ferber Dyke , Kather Jakob Nikolas , Mogler Carolin , Illert Anna L. , Tschochohei Maximilian
Published: October 2024

PURPOSE

Rapidly expanding medical literature challenges oncologists seeking targeted cancer therapies. General-purpose large language models (LLMs) lack domain-specific knowledge, limiting their clinical utility. This study introduces the LLM system Medical Evidence Retrieval and Data Integration for Tailored Healthcare (MEREDITH), designed to support treatment recommendations in precision oncology. Built on
Google's Gemini Pro
LLM, MEREDITH uses
retrieval-augmented generation
and
chain of thought
.

METHODS

We evaluated MEREDITH on 10 publicly available fictional oncology cases with iterative feedback from a molecular tumor board (MTB) at a major German cancer center. Initially limited to
PubMed
-indexed literature (draft system), MEREDITH was enhanced to incorporate clinical studies on drug response within the specific tumor type, trial databases, drug approval status, and oncologic guidelines. The MTB provided a benchmark with manually curated treatment recommendations and assessed the clinical relevance of LLM-generated options (qualitative assessment). We measured semantic cosine similarity between LLM suggestions and clinician responses (quantitative assessment).

RESULTS

MEREDITH identified a broader range of treatment options (median 4) compared with MTB experts (median 2). These options included therapies on the basis of preclinical data and combination treatments, expanding the treatment possibilities for consideration by the MTB. This broader approach was achieved by incorporating a curated medical data set that contextualized molecular targetability. Mirroring the approach MTB experts use to evaluate MTB cases improved the LLM's ability to generate relevant suggestions. This is supported by high concordance between LLM suggestions and expert recommendations (94.7% for the enhanced system) and a significant increase in semantic similarity from the draft to the enhanced system (from 0.71 to 0.76,
P
= .01).

CONCLUSION

Expert feedback and domain-specific data augment LLM performance. Future research should investigate responsible LLM integration into real-world clinical workflows.
Does swimming at the bottom serve as a hydraulic advantage for benthic fish Neogobius melanostomus Pallas (1814) in flowing water?
Authors: Govindasamy Nandhakumar , Rauter Georg , Seidel Frank , Burkhardt-Holm Patricia , Hirsch Philipp E. , Wiegleb Joschka
Published: October 2024

Benthic fish, such as the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus Pallas, 1814) tend to swim near the bottom, especially at increased water velocities. To test whether these fish have a hydraulic advantage from swimming near the bottom and how the substrate affects the forces experienced, we measured the hydraulic forces experienced by preserved fish in a flow channel. The fish were tested 5.0 mm above the bottom at smooth and rough surface, and in the water column (10.0 cm elevation) above smooth and rough surface at 0.95 m/s water velocity. No significant effect among the mean hydraulic forces was observed between both fish positions, whereas the mean hydraulic forces in the water column were significantly higher (P<0.05) above the rough surface (mean 0.077 N±0.025 s.d.) than above the smooth surface (mean 0.068 N±0.021 s.d.). A convolutional neural network (CNN) predicted the column smooth treatment was the most characteristic force data time series (mean F1=0.88±0.03 s.d.). We conclude that the body posture and body movements of the fish are more relevant for the hydraulic forces experienced by the fish than the vertical position in the water column. Further factors explaining the affinity to swimming near the bottom are discussed.
U-Mobility: crescer ou pivotar?
Authors: Cernev Adrian Kemmer , Francisco Eduardo
Published: October 2024

A U-Mobility era uma empresa de mobilidade urbana que atuava no competitivo mercado brasileiro. O fundador Daniel estava frente a um importante dilema estratégico: ampliar o capital para viabilizar o crescimento com a aquisição mais clientes ou pivotar o modelo de precificação e o próprio negócio. Durante as discussões, este mini caso de ensino permite discutir a pertinência dos efeitos de rede cruzados (cross-side network effects) em modelos de negócio baseados em plataformas de mercado de dois lados (two-sided market platforms).
Digital transformation and innovation in small and medium -sized enterprises
Authors: Νικοπούλου Μαρία
Published: October 2024

H παρούσα ερευνητική εργασία σκοπό έχει να διερευνήσει τους παράγοντες που επηρεάζουν την υιοθέτηση και εφαρμογή των τεχνολογιών πληροφορίας (ΤΠ) στην βιομηχανία της ξενοδοχειακής φιλοξενίας. Η έρευνα βασίζεται στην θεωρία Τεχνολογίας, Οργανισμού και Περιβάλλοντος (ΤΟΠ) (Tornatzky et al., 1990). Η παρούσα έρευνα βασίστηκε στις θεωρητικές εξελίξεις της ΤΟΠ για να δημιουργήσει ένα εννοιολογικό μοντέλο που παρουσιάζει τους παράγοντες που επηρεάζουν την απόφαση των ιδιοκτητών και διευθυντών των ξενοδοχείων στην υιοθέτηση πληροφορικών συστημάτων τεχνολογίας. Η πρόθεση υιοθέτησης της ψηφιακής τεχνολογίας επηρεάζεται θετικά και σημαντικά από την ψηφιακή ωριμότητα των οργανισμών, τη διαθεσιμότητα οικονομικών πόρων και τους κυβερνητικούς κανονισμούς. Η σημαντικότητα της παρούσας εργασίας επικεντρώνεται στο γεγονός ότι διερευνά παράγοντες που δεν έχουν εξεταστεί στο παρελθόν, όπως η οργανωτική ψηφιακή ωριμότητα, η οποία αποτελεί μια πολυδιάστατη μεταβλητή που στόχο έχει να εξετάσει ολιστικά τους τεχνολογικούς και οργανωτικούς παράγοντες που διαμορφώνουν καταληκτικά την υιοθέτηση των ΤΠ. Τα ευρήματα μπορούν να χρησιμοποιηθούν για να καθοδηγήσουν τη διαμόρφωση ψηφιακών στρατηγικών από οργανισμούς του κλάδου της φιλοξενίας.Η έρευνα πραγματοποιήθηκε υπό την αιγίδα του Υπουργείου Τουρισμού της Ελλάδας. Για το σκοπό της έρευνας στάλθηκε ηλεκτρονικό ερωτηματολόγιο μέσω της εφαρμογής Google Forms σε όλα τα μέλη του ξενοδοχειακού επιμελητηρίου Ελλάδος. Το ηλεκτρονικό ερωτηματολόγιο συμπλήρωσαν 502 ιδιοκτήτες και διευθυντές από όλη την ελληνική επικράτεια κατά την χρονική περιόδου Σεπτεμβρίου έως και Νοεμβρίου 2020.Τα δεδομένα της έρευνας αναλύθηκαν μέσω συγκεκριμένων στατιστικών τεχνικών που πληρούσαν τους σκοπούς της έρευνας. Οι στατιστικές τεχνικές περιλαμβάνουν τα δομικά μοντέλα εξισώσεων μερικών ελάχιστων τετραγώνων (PLS-SEM ). Τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας δείχνουν ότι η επίδραση των παραγόντων της θεωρίας της ΤΟΠ στην υιοθέτηση και εφαρμογή των τεχνολογιών πληροφορίας στην ξενοδοχειακή βιομηχανία είναι καταλυτική, ειδικότερα κατά την περίοδο της πανδημίας του COVID-19. Επιπλέον, μέσω των συμπερασμάτων της έρευνας αναδεικνύεται η σημαντικότητα του δείκτη εταιρικής καινοτομίας και του μεγέθους της ξενοδοχειακής μονάδας στη σχέση μεταξύ των τεχνολογικών, οργανωσιακών και περιβαλλοντικών παραγόντων και την υιοθέτηση και εφαρμογή τεχνολογιών πληροφορίας. Καταληκτικά, περιγράφονται αναλυτικά οι επιπτώσεις των αποτελεσμάτων της έρευνας στη ξενοδοχειακή διοίκηση και σε μελλοντικές έρευνες.
Whole body vibration and rider comfort determination of an electric two-wheeler test rig
Authors: Krishna Keerthan , Hegde Sriharsha , G T Mahesha , Shenoy B Satish
Published: October 2024

Background Two-wheeled vehicles are the major mode of transportation in India. Such vehicles are exposed to excessive vibration on the road when compared to four-wheeled vehicles. However, the research on the reduction of whole body vibration in the case of two-wheelers is not explored in detail. The present study predicts rider comfort in the case of an electric two-wheeler as per ISO 2631-1, by obtaining the finding the weighted acceleration at the strategic locations of vibration at the test rig. Methods An electric two-wheeler test rig is used in the study. The values of acceleration from the test rig in running conditions are obtained by using NI LabVIEW 2019. The drive cycle of the electric vehicle (EV) test rig is controlled by Sync sols’ EV lab software. Obtaining the weighted root mean square (RMS) acceleration from running the test setup, it is compared with the ISO 2631-1 standard to obtain the rider comfort. Results Loading area, traction motor, base mount, and suspension were found to be the strategic points of vibration. Frequency weighted RMS acceleration of 0.3 to 0.4 m/s2 obtained at these points are prone to cause discomfort for the rider. Vehicle speed, road profile, and duration of exposure were found to be important parameters affecting the rider’s comfort. A maximum of 4.6 m/s2 amplitude was observed. The loading area, which corresponds to a rider’s seat in actual vehicle, is important and reduction of these vibrations make the ride comfortable for the rider. Suspension and base mount of the test rig are found to be uncomfortable observing the weighted RMS acceleration. Conclusions A suitable damping technique design is very much essential in reducing these vibrations and improve the rider comfort, as many more non-deterministic vibrations are prone to cause dis-comfort in case of actual on road riding conditions.
Fish oil-containing edible films with active film incorporated with extract of Psidium guajava leaves: preparation and characterization of double-layered edible film
Authors: Sukoco Aji , Yamamoto Yukihiro , Harada Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Atsushi , Yoshino Tomoyuki
Published: October 2024

The utilization of zein and gum arabic has grown in an attempt to formulate wall materials based on protein–polysaccharide complexes. This mixture provides a versatile delivery system for hydrophilic (guava leaf extract, GLE) or lipophilic (fish oil, FO) bioactive compounds, and it can be used as an edible film-forming polymer. This study was undertaken to characterize FO-containing edible films that were double-layered with a film containing GLE. Modified zein and gum arabic solutions (MG complex) were mixed at a ratio of 1:1.5 (v/v), adjusted to pH 5, added with glycerol (20% of the complex) and FO (5% of the complex), and finally adjusted to pH 5. This was prepared as the bottom/lower layer. The upper/active layer was prepared by mixing MG complex, glycerol, and GLE (1, 3, and 5% w/v of the complex). The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in GLE were 15.81 mg GAE/g extract and 6.99 mg QE/g extract, respectively. The IC50 of the DPPH radical scavenging activity of GLE was 26.86 ppm with antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli of 9.83 and 12.55 mm. The total plate counts of double-layered films containing GLE were retained below 3 log CFU/g during 28-day storage. The peroxide values of these films were dimmed for no more than 9.08 meq/kg sample on day 28 of storage. Thickness (872.00-971.67 μm), water vapor transmission rate (12.99-17.04 g/m2/day), tensile strength (1.56-2.02 kPa), elongation at break (61.53-75.41%), glass transition (52.74-57.50°C), melting peak (131.59-142.35°C), inhibition against B. subtilis (33.67-40.58 mm), and inhibition against E. coli (2.05-9.04 mm) were obtained by double-layered films. GLE can be successfully incorporated into the active layer of a double-layer film to improve its characteristics while significantly slowing down the microbial contamination and oxidation rate. MG complex and FO can also contribute to the performance of the edible film.
Case Report: A male newborn with occipital horn syndrome
Authors: Georgeos Marian K. H. , Hanna Engy M.
Published: October 2024

Occipital horn syndrome (OHS) is a rare genetic disease and copper transport disorder caused by a faulty ATP7A gene with multisystemic presentations, most originally related to musculoskeletal and connective tissue affections. In our case, a male neonate with OHS presented soon after birth with pathognomonic occipital exostosis, cutis laxa at the nape region, and widely opened skull sutures and fontanels. A skeletal survey showed occipital exostosis projecting from the line of insertion of the trapezius muscle and wide fontanels on skull X-ray films with no exostoses or deformities elsewhere. In addition to our case report being the second reported case for the condition detected early in the neonatal period, it also emphasizes the importance of investigating any sign thoroughly, as it may be an early alarming sign of a progressive disease that may affect the patient’s quality of life. In addition, it highlights the value of early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of these patients.
Does the impact of medical publications vary by disease indication and publication type? An exploration using a novel, value-based, publication metric framework: the EMPIRE Index
Authors: Rees Tomas , Pal Avishek
Published: October 2024

Background The EMPIRE (EMpirical Publication Impact and Reach Evaluation) Index is a value-based, multi-component metric framework to assess the impact of medical publications in terms of relevance to different stakeholders. It comprises three component scores (social, scholarly and societal impact), each incorporating related altmetrics that indicate a different aspect of engagement with the publication. Here, we present an exploratory investigation of whether publication types or disease indications influence EMPIRE Index scores. Methods Article-level metrics were extracted and EMPIRE Index scores were calculated for 5825 journal articles published from 1 May 2017 to 1 May 2018, representing 12 disease indications (chosen to reflect a wide variety of common and rare diseases with a variety of aetiologies) and five publication types. Results There were significant differences in scores between article types and disease indications. Median (95% CI) social and scholarly impact scores ranged from 1.2 (0.3–1.6) to 4.8 (3.1–6.6), respectively, for phase 3 clinical trials, and from 0.3 (0.3–0.4) to 2.3 (1.9–2.6), respectively, for observational studies. Social and scholarly impact scores were highest for multiple sclerosis publications and lowest for non-small cell lung cancer publications. Systematic reviews achieved greater impact than regular reviews. Median trends in the social impact of different disease areas matched the level of public interest as assessed through Google search interest. Although most articles did not register societal impact, mean societal impact scores were highest for migraine publications. Conclusions The EMPIRE Index successfully identified differences in impact by disease area and publication type, which supports the notion that the impact of each publication needs to be evaluated in the context of these factors, and potentially others. These findings should be considered when using the EMPIRE Index to assess publication impact.
A literature review of “lawful” text and data mining.
Authors: Vrakas Giorgos
Published: October 2024

Text and data mining (TDM) is a process, typically automated, that looks for patterns in data that may otherwise remain unnoticed. In a world where data driven solutions play a progressively more important role, TDM has become a vital tool in sectors ranging from medicine, to commerce, gaining widespread attraction. Nevertheless, a variety of regulatory frameworks not always specifically attuned towards regulating TDM continue to apply concurrently. The literature within the context of regulatory frameworks governing TDM is a fragmented piecemeal of valuable insights into what “lawful” TDM resembles. This literature review adopts a grounded theory approach analysing 88 pieces of literature, collating views regarding “lawful” TDM, ultimately providing a holistic assessment of academics’ and practitioners’ views and opinions regarding the regulatory framework which governs TDM. A total of 7 categories were identified and each of these are analysed. Tables are provided in the Appendix (accessible here: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12654691)highlighting which scholarly works were used for each section of the literature review, but also how those works were used. It is ultimately concluded that the regulatory frameworks that apply to users conducting TDM are multifaceted, and ever-changing on a case-by-case basis. There is an ever-growing need for a holistic interpretation of the regulatory frameworks which apply, creating a map which would allow for users conducting TDM to navigate this complex web of legal rules.
The genome sequence of Pearl Grass-veneer, Catoptria pinella Linnaeus, 1758
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Hutchinson Finley , Crowley Liam M. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: October 2024

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Catoptria pinella (pearl grass-veneer; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Crambidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 386.90 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.77%) is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,308 protein-coding genes.
FUNDAMENTO FILOSÓFICO-JURÍDICO DA SOLIDARIEDADE - DOI: 10.12818/P.0304-2340.2024v85p157
Authors: Camargo Massaú Guilherme
Published: October 2024

O texto tem como objetivo analisar a categoria filosófica cuidado na perspectiva heideggeriana como fundamento da solidariedade na dimensão jurídica. Isto deve-se ao fato de Heidegger designar o cuidado como ser- -no-mundo ao vincular a relação do cuidado consigo e com o mundo, interligando a vida como um todo. A partir desta compreensão, encontra-se a relação direta com a solidariedade (também como comando normativo), já que ser solidário implica responsabilizar-se pela própria vida e pelo mundo a sua volta a partir de si, constituindo direito e dever jurídicos. Assim, a solidariedade, mesmo no âmbito jurídico, manifesta o cuidado consigo e com o outro (mundo). Manifesta-se as dimensões individual e social. O método empregado é o dedutivo, pois ao estabelecer alguns parâmetros da teoria de Heidegger, situou-se os elementos vinculados à concepção de Direito adotada neste trabalho. Os instrumentos de pesquisa, como requer a natureza do tema, foram bibliográficos.
Solihull Approach training in undergraduate midwifery education: a pilot study
Authors: Anderson Gail , Lawther Lorna
Published: October 2024

Background/Aims

To date, Solihull training for midwives in Northern Ireland has been facilitated as continuing professional development; however, incorporating Solihull Approach Antenatal Foundation Training in undergraduate midwifery education has been recommended. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the provision of this training for undergraduate midwifery students.

Methods

This mixed-method evaluation study used pre- and post-test questionnaires with a purposive sample of 24 final year midwifery students. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics with thematic analysis of free text comments.

Results

Four themes emerged: perceived benefits in clinical practice; increased knowledge and confidence; increased recognition of the public health role of the midwife; and integration and timing of the training.

Conclusions

The innovative initiative was positively evaluated and considered an enhancement to current education provision. However, the initiative would have been welcomed earlier in the education programme.

Implications for practice

Solihull Approach training will be provided at undergraduate level and introduced earlier in the programme, with the subsequent potential to incrementally build on this foundation and include further tiers of training. The impact of students' application of the Solihull Approach in clinical practice warrants further investigation.
The endocrine system and associated disorders
Authors: Haddrill Rosalind , McEwan Tom , Leader Claire , Peate Ian
Published: October 2024

This series of three articles will explore the fundamentals related to anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology in relation to three important topics: the cardiac system, the respiratory system and the endocrine system. The series is intended to provide an informative and evidence-based summary of each topic for both students and clinicians. This third and final paper explores the maternal endocrine system, outlining the key physiological adaptations in pregnancy and summarising the key pathophysiological conditions that may occur.
Congenital cytomegalovirus
Authors: O'Hara Leena , Hiscutt Melanie
Published: October 2024

Leena O'Hara discusses congenital cytomegalovirus, and shares the story of Melanie Hiscutt and her daughter, Hope, who was born with congenital cytomegalovirus
Reptile husbandry: the basics
Authors: Hornby Jessica May , Hedley Joanna
Published: October 2024

Reptiles are becoming increasingly popular pets. Appropriate species-specific husbandry should be provided for each individual for them to thrive and not simply survive. Enclosure choice does not always mean a vivarium, with a variety of options now available. A size appropriate for the individual should be provided – for larger species, this may mean dedicating rooms or heated outdoor enclosures for them. Substrate choice is critical, as risks such as gastrointestinal obstruction are present, and owners must ensure their animal can exhibit normal behaviour, such as burrowing. Both thermal and light gradients should be provided, allowing reptiles to bask as they would outside of captivity. Provision of water at all times is necessary and must be tailored to each species to ensure they actually use this resource. No perfect enclosure exists, as it is impossible to recreate the identical environment that reptiles inhabit in the wild. Understanding these different components will allow veterinary teams to advise owners appropriately, improving animal welfare and reducing presentations of preventable diseases in clinics.
Navigating postoperative complications: Uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema syndrome after Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation
Authors: Ferrere Magdalena , Garcia-Mansilla Ignacio , de Gainza Agustina
Published: October 2024

Altwijri and Alsirhy reported a case of uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema syndrome after an Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation surgery in an advanced primary open-angle glaucoma patient, being the first ever recorded of its kind. The author describes the position of the tube as the origin of the anterior chamber inflammation and hyphema, which resolved shortly after shortening and relocating it. This publication emphasizes the importance of precise implant positioning and close-up patient follow-up after glaucoma filtration surgery as an important standard for healthcare providers.