bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic neuroreceptor positron emission tomography in non-anesthetized rats using point source based motion correction: A feasibility study with [11C]ABP688
Authors: Kroll Tina , Miranda Alan , Drechsel Alexandra , Beer Simone , Lang Markus , Drzezga Alexander , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Verhaeghe Jeroen , Elmenhorst David , Bauer Andreas
Published: April 2024

To prevent motion artifacts in small animal positron emission tomography (PET), animals are routinely scanned under anesthesia or physical restraint. Both may potentially alter metabolism and neurochemistry. This study investigates the feasibility of fully awake acquisition and subsequent absolute quantification of dynamic brain PET data via pharmacokinetic modelling in moving rats using the glutamate 5 receptor radioligand [11C]ABP688 and point source based motion correction. Five male rats underwent three dynamic [11C]ABP688 PET scans: two test-retest awake PET scans and one scan under anesthesia for comparison. Specific radioligand binding was determined via the simplified reference tissue model (reference: cerebellum) and outcome parameters BPND and R1 were evaluated in terms of stability and reproducibility. Test-retest measurements in awake animals gave reliable results with high correlations of BPND (y = 1.08 × −0.2, r = 0.99, p < 0.01) and an acceptable variability (mean over all investigated regions 15.7 ± 2.4%). Regional [11C]ABP688 BPNDs under awake and anesthetized conditions were comparable although in awake scans, absolute radioactive peak uptakes were lower and relative blood flow in terms of R1 was higher. Awake small animal PET with absolute quantification of neuroreceptor availability is technically feasible and reproducible thereby providing a suitable alternative whenever effects of anesthesia are undesirable, e.g. in sleep research.
Planning for heterogeneous teams of robots with temporal logic, capability, and resource constraints
Authors: Cardona Gustavo A. , Vasile Cristian-Ioan
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive approach for planning for teams of heterogeneous robots with different capabilities and the transportation of resources. We use Capability Temporal Logic (CaTL), a formal language that helps express tasks involving robots with multiple capabilities with spatial, temporal, and logical constraints. We extend CaTL to also capture resource constraints, where resources can be divisible and indivisible, for instance, sand and bricks, respectively. Robots transport resources using various storage types, such as uniform (shared storage among resources) and compartmental (individual storage per resource). Robots’ resource transportation capacity is defined based on resource type and robot class. Robot and resource dynamics and the CaTL mission are jointly encoded in a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP), which maximizes disjoint robot and resource robustness while minimizing spurious movement of both. We propose a multi-robustness approach for Multi-Class Signal Temporal Logic (mcSTL), allowing for generalized quantitative semantics across multiple predicate classes. Thus, we compute availability robustness scores for robots and resources separately. Finally, we conduct multiple experiments demonstrating functionality and time performance by varying resources and storage types.
Testicular histopathology and follicular stimulating hormone to predict fertility in nonobstructive azoospermia
Authors: Abushamma Faris , Alazab Rami S , Allouh Mohammed Z , Abu Shamleh Rafeef , Abu Alwafa Rola , Ghalayini Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

To examine the ability of testicular histopathology in Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) in predicting sperm retrieval rate (SR), sperm quality and assisted reproductive technology success.

Methods:

A retrospective study recruited clinically diagnosed NOA patients between 2007 and 2015. Testicular biopsy and conventional sperm extraction (TESE) were done concomitantly. Correlation between pathological categories, SR rate, sperm quality and success of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was studied. FSH was measured as a predictor of fertility.

Results:

One hundred eighteen patients were recruited. Histopathological classification was hypospermatogenesis (HS) 45 (38%), maturation arrest (MA) 22(19%), Sertoli cell only syndrome (SCOS) 34 (29%) and normal spermatogenesis (NS) 17 (14%). FSH value was above normal level in 34 (76%) of HS, 19 (86%) of MA, 32 (94%) of SCOS and 5 (29%) of NS. Positive SR was obtained in 108 (92%) patients. The highest SR rate was seen in NS group 100% and the lowest was in SCOS 26 (77%). The worst sperm quality was found in SCOS as type C represents 46%, followed by MA 40% and HS 24%. Patients had ICSI following TESE had variable success rate as success of ICSI was seen (9/15) for HS, (0/7) for MA, (5/15) for SCOS and (8/9) for NS. FSH is strongly correlated to SR, quality of sperm and success of ICSI as positive SR in normal FSH patients was obtained in 28 (100%) of normal FSH, 70 (97%) of high FSH and 10 (56%) of double high FSH ( p value < 001). The success of ICSI significantly correlates with FSH value as normal FSH has 77% success ICSI rate, high FSH (52%) and double high FSH (0%) ( p value < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Testicular biopsy and histopathology findings in NOA are strongly correlated SR rate, quality of sperms, and success of ICSI. FSH is a strong noninvasive predictor of fertility in NOA patients.
‘Sink or swim’ school leadership socialisation: A global South case of principal preparation and development
Authors: Grant Carolyn (Callie)
Published: April 2024

Much of the school leadership preparation and development literature emanates from the global north with little attention paid to leadership preparation and development in non-western contexts. This article draws on a South African case in a larger study that explored how school leaders were socialised into the principalship role in four Sub-Saharan African countries. Framed by leadership socialisation theory, and using questionnaire and interview data generated from 29 school leaders, the writer adopted the conceptual elements of professional, organisational and anticipatory socialisation in analysing the data. The article provides strong evidence of ‘sink or swim’ school leadership socialisation. The writer argues that more attention be given to the dimensions of professional and organisational socialisation in global south contexts, South Africa being an illustrative case. She further highlights the importance of anticipatory socialisation in the preparation and development of school leaders, particularly in resource-constrained contexts.
Enhancing surgical flexibility: Modeling of a novel curved-waveguide ultrasonic scalpel for intricate procedures
Authors: Wang Yujie , Li Shiyang , Xue Qian
Published: April 2024

In surgical scenarios such as thoracic procedures where target tissues locate behind sternums, the conventional rigid-long-straight ultrasonic scalpel is hard to operate. To solve the problem, this paper proposes a novel curved-waveguide ultrasonic scalpel (CWUS) with TC4 material. Through mathematical derivations and simulations, the dimension of CWUS is determined. Modal, transient, and fatigue life simulation by COMSOL demonstrate that the proposed CWUS effectively suppresses lateral vibrations in the scalpel body, and can output a comparable amplitude to conventional ultrasonic scalpels with an enough fatigue life. Consequently, the proposed novel CWUS is especially useful for doctors to perform complex operations in thoracic invasive surgery safer and more flexible.
Nonlinear impedance characteristics of a gas hydraulic energy absorber and performance prediction for railway transportation of valuable goods
Authors: Wang Wenlin , Liu Hongyou , Wu Dazhuo , Wu Yongming , Zhao Jian
Published: April 2024

It is meaningful to investigate the nonlinear impedance characteristics of gas hydraulic energy absorbers (GHEAs) and their potential application in modern railway transportation of valuable goods. Fluid-mechanics-based full parametric modelling of a GHEA used in a high-speed train is performed, both simulations with the developed mathematic model and physical experiments are carried out on the static and dynamic characteristics of the GHEA. The agreement between the results of the simulation and the experiment with tolerable deviations validates the nonlinear mathematic model. Longitudinal train dynamics (LTD) modelling and simulation of a Chinese rapid freight train with the validated GHEA model or the conventional MT-2 friction-type energy absorber model is finally conducted. The results show that when the train uses GHEAs instead of MT-2 energy absorbers, the coupler forces and vehicle accelerations of the train are significantly reduced, and the vehicles operate more steadily in situations such as train startup, emergency braking and shunting operations; thus, gas hydraulic energy absorber is protective and would be alternative for equipping rapid freight trains for the transportation of valuable goods. The obtained nonlinear mathematic model in terms of the structural, oil and gas property parameters of the GHEA is useful and meaningful in further parameter design optimization of GHEAs and optimal specification of GHEAs for rapid freight trains.
A case of guttate psoriasis after primary herpetic gingivostomatitis
Authors: Gaspari Valeria , Orioni Gionathan , Peron Isabella , Misciali Cosimo , Bardazzi Federico
Published: April 2024

Herpetic gingivostomatitis and anogenital herpes are widely known manifestations of sexually transmitted herpesvirus infections. What is less recognized is the potential causative role of such infections in triggering immune-mediated skin disorders such as guttate psoriasis. We describe the case of a 23-year-old man with an acute episode of guttate psoriasis related to primary herpetic gingivostomatitis. The diagnosis of guttate psoriasis was pathologically confirmed and the condition fully regressed after proper antiviral therapy. This case adds herpes simplex virus to the growing list of pathogens capable of acting as triggers for guttate psoriasis and highlights the need for better insight of the relationship between psoriasis and viral infections.
Characterization of bifacial technology Pv systems
Authors: Moreno-Buesa Sergio M , Muñoz-Cerón Emilio , Nofuentes Garrido Gustavo , Gulkowski Slawomir , de la Casa Higueras Juan , Aguilera Tejero Jorge
Published: April 2024

Bifacial solar technology has experienced exponential growth in recent years and its trend is increasing for the coming years. Considering the advantages that it offers over monofacial technology such as its current price equivalence, the increase in performance thanks to the production of the rear face and the consecutive reduction of the LCOE, it is logical that more and more photovoltaic plants with this technology are been installed. Nowadays, there are some regulatory gaps regarding bifacial technology and, due to this growing trend, it is necessary to study, research and implement the optimal way to evaluate these systems. This article has experimented with a 3.3 kW bifacial photovoltaic system, divided into two strings with different configurations, whose monitoring system has all the instrumentation included in the IEC 61,724 standard, with the addition that it has several rear irradiance sensors arranged in different locations of the system to evaluate the variability of this parameter. After an experimental campaign of 9 months, a power estimation analysis and the calculation of the PR and PR25°C have been carried out using the different rear irradiance sensors. The variability of this parameter depending on the location of the sensor has affected the results in such a way that the RMSE committed in the power estimation has varied between 10.22% and 2.63%, while the PR and PR25°C of the system has oscillated between 0.84 for the most unfavorable case and 0.95 in the most favorable case. Assumed the great variability between performance ratios, it is necessary to establish a specific normative standard for the evaluation of Bifacial PV systems.
What Can Language Models Tell Us About Human Cognition?
Authors: Connell Louise , Lynott Dermot
Published: April 2024

Language models are a rapidly developing field of artificial intelligence with enormous potential to improve our understanding of human cognition. However, many popular language models are cognitively implausible on multiple fronts. For language models to offer plausible insights into human cognitive processing, they should implement a transparent and cognitively plausible learning mechanism, train on a quantity of text that is achievable in a human’s lifetime of language exposure, and not assume to represent all of word meaning. When care is taken to create plausible language models within these constraints, they can be a powerful tool in uncovering the nature and scope of how language shapes semantic knowledge. The distributional relationships between words, which humans represent in memory as linguistic distributional knowledge, allow people to represent and process semantic information flexibly, robustly, and efficiently.
The Impact of Organizational Culture on the Innovation and Performance of SMEs: A Comparative Study between Germany and Thailand
Authors: Kuhn Stefan , Bhatiasevi Veera
Published: April 2024

Innovation is recognized as one of the key factors for economic growth and building a competitive advantage for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in today’s world. The purpose of this research is to investigate how innovation is related to organizational culture and performance of SMEs located in Germany and Thailand. Based on an extensive literature review, the authors propose a comprehensive research model that integrates the competing values framework, organizational innovation and the balanced scorecard framework. Data from 213 respondents across both countries were collected and analyzed utilizing structural equation modelling. Results show that despite their contrasting national cultures, adhocracy culture is a key driver of organizational innovation in both countries, leading to enhanced overall organizational performance, particularly in financial and customer dimensions. This study enriches organizational behaviour research with unique cross-cultural perspectives and equips leaders of SMEs with practical strategies for cultivating an adhocracy culture across diverse cultural landscapes.
Psychotherapy for Families with Adolescent Children: Clinical Practice Guidelines
Authors: Satyanarayana Veena A. , Das Abhilasha , Shah Anisha
Published: April 2024

Family therapy is often indicated in the treatment of adolescents with mental health difficulties. The family context is often seen as a predisposing, precipitating, perpetuating, or a protective factor for a wide range of child and adolescent mental health concerns. Several approaches to family therapy are now recognized as evidence-based treatments for different psychiatric presentations. In this article, we hope to describe the relevance of family therapy for families with adolescents in India, present case illustrations on commonly used approaches to family therapy, and propose clinical practice guidelines.
Schooling and Constructions of Citizenship: Some Reflections on Student Agency and Choice
Authors: Hegde Rupamanjari
Published: April 2024

A national system of education in modern nation-states is usually geared towards nation-building and schools play a significant role in grooming children as future citizens. While the dominant and powerful usually emerge as the ‘ideal citizen’ in the national imagination, the marginalized are constructed as the ‘other’, vilified, and stigmatised. The school, with its overt and hidden curriculum, operates as a major site for the reproduction of dominant ideology while at the same time creating opportunities for exercising human agency. This article, an ethnographic study, conducted in a government co-educational school in Delhi examines how it sought to mould the students into ‘ideal’ citizens and how this was received by them. Belonging to a relatively lower socio-economic background compared to the teaching community did they give their acquiescence? Or were they able to exercise their agency to challenge the entrenched power structures in society? Were their responses shaped by their specific social locations and the unfolding of ‘cultural politics’? Moreover, when the nature of ‘official knowledge’ itself has undergone radical shifts and the idea of citizenship has been redefined with the introduction of the National Curriculum Framework 2005, were the students able to leverage the epistemological shifts embodied in the textbooks to reimagine and construct ideas of citizenship regarding marginalised communities? These are some questions that the present article seeks to address.
Book review: Nathanael Ojong (Ed.), Off-Grid Solar Electrification in Africa: A Critical Perspective
Authors: Arora Kavita
Published: April 2024

Nathanael Ojong (Ed.), Off-Grid Solar Electrification in Africa: A Critical Perspective, Palgrave Macmillan, 2022, pp. 372, ₹8,808 (Hardback).
Is It Air or Fat? Chyluria as the Lesser Known Cause of Dark Fluid Levels within the Urinary System
Authors: Kumar Manish , Singh Priya , Kumari Priti , Kumar Shashikant
Published: April 2024

Chyluria is caused by the development of the reno-lymphatic fistula leading to reflux of chyle in urine. The most common cause of chyluria is a parasitic infection, especially lymphatic filariasis; however, rarely chronic renal infections like tuberculosis can also cause chyluria. The presence of fat fluid level in the pelvicalyceal system, perinephric, retroperitoneal collections and in the urinary bladder on CT scan in a case of chronic pyelonephritis is an important indicator of the presence of the reno-lymphatic fistula. We describe clinical picture and CT images of a patient with chyluria showing fat fluid in abdominal collections.
Pleuro-spinal Hydatid Cyst Masquerading as Spinal Tuberculosis: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Priyadharshan K. P. , Marappan Kodeeswaran , Mathew Meghena , Mani Ashwin Kumar , Vakamala Haritha Reddy , Jayamoorthy T.
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Primary hydatid cyst of the spinal cord is exceedingly rare. Diagnosis at the early stages is difficult as they may be asymptomatic or have mild vague pain. Patients typically present when there are features of cord/root compression. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) stands as the primary investigative modality, but even then, preoperative diagnosis might not always be possible as it may resemble other pathological conditions.

Methods:

This was a case report of a single case with evidence-based discussion. Informed consent was obtained.

Case Report:

We present a 62-year-old female patient with progressive paraparesis and numbness of bilateral lower limbs. MRI was suggestive of a tubercular pleurospinal lesion at the D9-D10 level. However, intraoperatively, it was identified to be a rare case of primary pleurospinal (thoracic) hydatid cyst. The patient was managed with complete surgical removal of all the cysts and antihelminthic drug therapy with no evidence of recurrence at the 2-year follow-up.

Conclusion:

Radiological diagnosis might not be accurate and hydatidosis must be kept in mind to avoid intraoperative confusion. Timely diagnosis, appropriate surgical planning, and comprehensive follow-up are crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.
Primary Disseminated Peritoneal Hydatidosis: A Rare Presentation of Common Infectious Disease
Authors: Galhotra Anisha , Kaur Daljinderjit , Gupta Monica , Dalal Ashwani
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Human hydatidosis, being caused by the larvae of Echinococcus granulosus, rarely presents as disseminated peritoneal disease which can be either primary or secondary. Iatrogenic secondary peritoneal echinococcosis is more common while primary form of infection is found occasionally. Radiological imaging including ultrasonography or computed tomography (CT) scan is considered the most essential diagnostic modality. The mainstay of treatment for localized hydatid cysts or infected cysts and multiple septations is the surgical management in the form of excision. Disseminated hydatid disease presents with varied manifestations involving multiple organs. However, primary peritoneal hydatidosis is being rare entity, accounting for only 2% of cases of abdominal hydatidosis. The dissemination to multiple organs usually occurs through either lymphatic or systemic circulation.

Case Report:

In this case report, we present an uncommon presentation of primary disseminated peritoneal hydatidosis. On further evaluation, the patient was diagnosed to have peritoneal hydatidosis with hepatic and lung hydatid cyst involvement on contrast-enhanced CT abdomen. The patient was managed conservatively with oral tablet albendazole 400 mg twice a day during his 1st admission and later presented again with acute abdomen, and then, radical surgery in the form of pericystectomy was carried out but patient developed large gastric perforation, for which again surgery was attempted, but patient succumbed to his illness. In this case, the rare presentation of primary disseminated peritoneal hydatidosis as acute abdomen was observed.

Conclusion:

Primary disseminated peritoneal hydatidosis as the presentation of acute pain abdomen is rare entity. This case emphasizes an atypical presentation of hydatidosis.
A Comparative Analysis of Vitamin D Status among Tuberculosis Patients and Healthy Household Contacts: A Case–Control Study from Central India
Authors: Zafar Sabahat , Siddiqui Zaki , Agrawal Nutan , Madhurmay  , Singh Mayank
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives:

When it comes to the nature of the relationship between tuberculosis (TB) and Vitamin D, the available literature offers contradictory findings. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between Vitamin D and TB, as well as the relationship between Vitamin D and functional capacity in TB patients from Central India.

Materials and Methods:

This case–control study comprised 400 participants divided into two equal groups: cases (200 TB patients) and controls (200 healthy household contacts). The study involved subjecting participants to standard laboratory tests in accordance with the management guidelines implemented by the institute. Abbott Architect i1000SR PLUS was used to test the Vitamin D levels while the Karnofsky Performance Status Scale score was used for the functional capacity of cases. Vitamin D levels were categorized into deficient, insufficient, and sufficient for every participant. Information related to the study was noted down on a structured pro forma.

Results:

The difference in Vitamin D values between the two groups was statistically significant, with 62.5% of deficient patients in the case group compared to 15% in the control group (confidence interval = 95%, χ 2 = 173.97, P = 0.001). The relationship between Vitamin D concentration and Karnofsky scale categories was statistically significant ( r = 0.752, P = 0.01).

Interpretation and Conclusions:

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with TB and a decrease in functional capacity in the region of Bundelkhand, highlighting the vital role of Vitamin D for TB patients.
Using Information and Communication Technology Tools in Writing Skills and Their Functionalities
Authors: Prasad Sachchidanand , Kumar Dinesh , Bath Sabrina
Published: April 2024

Today, the use of information and communication technology (ICT) tools has become essential in every classroom teaching and learning process as it has become inevitable in the global exchange in the 21st century. Its use increases the quality of education and meets requirements as per the global need and thus forwards its users in the way of change and reform. The study aims to explore and analyse the using ICT tools in writing skills and their functionalities. The article discusses how ICT tools are useful in enhancing writing skills.
Role of Insulin Use and Social Determinants of Health on Non-melanoma Skin Cancer: Results From the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Massouh Nour , Jaffa Ayad A. , Jaffa Miran A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is a frequent type of malignancy with a steadily increasing incidence rate worldwide. Although NMSC was shown to be associated with diabetes, no studies have addressed the extent to which insulin use influences the risk of NMSC in light of social determinants of health (SDOH). We conducted a quantitative study that examined the interplay between insulin use, SDOH, additional covariates, and NMSC among individuals with diabetes.

Methods

We based our analysis on the 2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a national survey conducted yearly in the US. We performed weighted chi-squared test, logistic regression, and survival analyses on 8685 eligible participants with diabetes enrolled in the BRFSS.

Results

Kaplan Meier survival curves showed higher probability of NMSC event-free survival for participants with diabetes using insulin compared to participants with diabetes not using insulin (log-rank test P < .001). Significant associations were detected between insulin use and reduced odds of NMSC (OR .56; 95% CI: .38-.82), and decreased hazard (HR .36; 95% CI: .21-.62), along with indices of SDOH.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that socioeconomic differences related to the healthcare system and behavioral patterns are linked to discrepancies in the use of insulin and the development of NMSC.
Creative Nursing: History and Future Directions
Authors: Younas Ahtisham , Lewis-Hunstiger Marty
Published: April 2024

This article traces the development of Creative Nursing from its origin in 1981 as a newsletter about Primary Nursing to its current position as a quarterly international, interdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, indexed, themed journal that continues to nurture novice authors, welcome international submissions, review articles that other journals won’t consider, and address subjects that many journals avoid. Future directions include content in multiple languages, new author guidelines that invite submissions of research methods papers, moving beyond statistical significance based on p-value thresholds, asking authors to make explicit the implications for knowledge translation in their papers, and thinking creatively about how artificial intelligence can be leveraged for research, education, and practice.
Determination of clopidogrel effect in cats using point-of-care Plateletworks ADP and shipped samples for PFA-200 analysis in a clinical practice setting
Authors: Kornya Matthew R , Abrams-Ogg Anthony CG , Blois Shauna L , Wood R Darren
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Clopidogrel is the recommended first-line antithrombotic in cats for a variety of conditions; however, it is ineffective in 15–20% of cats. The determination of clopidogrel effectiveness with platelet function assays has historically been limited to specialty centers; however, recent work has suggested that in-hospital or shipped analyses of samples may be feasible. The aim of the present study was to investigate the utility of an in-house analysis and shipping of blood samples collected in primary practices for the determination of clopidogrel effectiveness.

Methods

Citrated blood samples were collected from cats receiving clopidogrel therapy by veterinarians in clinical practices across Canada, a median of 304.4 km from the reference laboratory (range 8–4425). Samples were analyzed in-house using Plateletworks ADP and shipped for remote analysis using PFA-200 P2Y and COL/ADP cartridges.

Results

A total of 30 samples were collected from 25 cats. Of these, the percentage of samples analyzable for the presence or absence of the clopidogrel effect was 86% for Plateletworks ADP, 90% for PFA-200 P2Y and 87% for PFA-200 COL/ADP. There was no significant difference in the number of samples unable to be analyzed by each modality ( P = 0.689) due to flow obstruction or other sample characteristics. The prevalence of absence of clopidogrel effectiveness on platelet function assays was 8% with the PFA-200 COL/ADP assay, 25% with the PFA-200 P2Y assay and 30% with the Plateletworks ADP assay.

Conclusions and relevance

The results of this study confirm that samples of feline blood can be collected in clinical practices and shipped to a reference laboratory for PFA-200 analysis with a high rate of success, comparable to point-of-care analysis.
The association between vascular access satisfaction and all-cause mortality in maintenance hemodialysis patients
Authors: Zhang Liu-Ping , Li Meng-Ting , Pan Meng-Jiao , Ou Yu-Tong , Gao Min , Wu Min
Published: April 2024

Background:

The mortality is significantly higher in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) than in the general population. It is well-known that vascular access (VA) is critical for MHD patients. But the association between VA satisfaction and all-cause mortality in MHD patients is still not clear. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between VA satisfaction and all-cause mortality in MHD patients with a 30-month follow-up.

Methods:

Two hundred twenty-nine MHD patients in two dialysis centers were enrolled in this observational prospective study. VA satisfaction was assessed using the Short Form Vascular Access Questionnaire (VAQ). Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) score was calculated with Short Form 36 (SF-36) questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the influencing factors of all-cause mortality.

Results:

During the 30-month follow-up period, 35 patients dropped out of the study. Among them, 31 patients died, and 4 patients stopped MHD treatment after renal transplantation. Multivariable analyses showed that the age, VAQ total score, social functioning score and dialysis-related complication score of the VAQ, the total score and MCS of the SF-36 were factors influencing all-cause mortality in MHD patients. The Kaplan-Meier curve further showed that the cumulative survival probability was significantly higher in the MHD patients with VAQ scores <7 at baseline than in patients with VAQ scores ⩾7 ( p = 0.031).

Inclusion:

The present study showed that VA satisfaction was significantly associated with all-cause mortality in MHD patients. These findings suggest that a holistic approach is required for VA choice.
Information on Measles, Mumps and Rubella Vaccine in the Copenhagen School Health Records Register
Authors: Altindag Onur , Andersen Matvei , Baker Jennifer L. , Greve Jane , Tekin Erdal
Published: April 2024

Background:

The Copenhagen School Health Record Register (CSHRR) includes health information from school examinations and is now updated with information on measles, mumps and rubella vaccines for the cohorts born from 1977 to 1994.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive description and validation the newly digitised vaccine information in the CSHRR.

Methods:

We describe the data collection and the newly digitalised information in the CSHRR. We investigate the extent to which the full CSHRR population is representative of Copenhagen and the entire Danish population. Furthermore, we explore how the registry information on vaccination uptake based on reimbursement data matches the vaccine information obtained from CSHRR for the period during which both data are available.

Results:

The CSHRR population matches closely the complete population of all schoolchildren in Copenhagen, and information on vaccine uptake in CSHRR matches with vaccine registry data for later cohorts. However, a sizable proportion of the immigrant children in the CSHRR have missing information on vaccination. Removing children who have had no additional immunisations enhances data quality.

Conclusions:

The CSHRR covers a large share of the Danish population and includes detailed vaccine information. By linking the data to other registry data, the updated CSHRR is valuable resource for future research.
Influence of hate speech about refugees in search algorithms on political attitudes: An online experiment
Authors: Pradel Franziska
Published: April 2024

This article assesses the effects of hate speech compared to positive and neutral content about refugees in search engines on trust and policy preferences through a survey experiment in Germany. The study uncovers that individuals with an extreme-right political ideology become more hostile toward refugees after being exposed to refugee-related hate speech in search queries. Moreover, politically biased search engines erode trust similarly to politicized sources like politicians, and positively and negatively biased content is trusted less than neutral content. However, individuals with a right political ideology trust more hate speech content than individuals with a left-wing ideology. Individuals with right-wing ideology are also almost three times as likely to intend to click on hate speech suggestions compared to left-wing counterparts.
The online conversion framework: Understanding antagonism, planning theory, and social media
Authors: Potts Ruth , Riddle Johanna , Hollander Justin B , Hartt Maxwell
Published: April 2024

Digital technology is reshaping participatory planning, including conflict and antagonism in the planning process. Yet planning theory has largely failed to engage with emerging digital mechanisms that could stimulate antagonism in online environments. This paper seeks to explore different ways of framing conflict and antagonism in planning and the degree to which they reflect an increasingly digital approach to public participation. We introduce an Online Conversion Framework to delineate the process of conversion for antagonistic to agonistic action on social media, using X (formerly Twitter) as an example.
Probabilistic damage identification for bridges using multiple damage-sensitive features and FE model update
Authors: Yajima Yoshiyuki , Petladwala Murtuza , Kumura Takahiro , Kim Chul-Woo
Published: April 2024

A specific damage-sensitive feature (DSF) is usually sensitive to damage in a certain area, and the specific location of damage in a specific area can be detected by selecting appropriate DSFs. However, damaged components are seldom known before inspections. This makes it difficult to find an appropriate DSF, and damage identification is sometimes challenging. This paper aims to propose a natural frequency and displacement ratio-based probabilistic damage identification method for bridges using the finite element (FE) model update to solve this issue. The displacement ratio measured at two positions on the bridge is proposed as a new DSF. It is a useful DSF because it is independent of external loads. By integrating displacement ratios and natural frequencies, that is, multiple DSFs, as a decision-level data fusion approach, this paper identifies damaged components without choosing an appropriate DSF beforehand. In addition, probability density functions (PDFs) of structural parameters are estimated from PDFs of derived DSFs through the FE model update to consider errors and uncertainties in measurements. An in-house model bridge experiment is carried out to investigate the feasibility. The results demonstrated that the two kinds of damages in a bearing and girder reproduced in the experiment were successfully identified without false positives even when these damages simultaneously occurred.
Development of essential oil-containing antimicrobial and deodorizing nanofibrous membranes for sanitary napkin applications
Authors: Lee Hanul , Lee Seungsin
Published: April 2024

In this study, antimicrobial and deodorizing nanofibrous composite membranes based on natural substances were developed for use in feminine sanitary napkins. Plant-derived natural essential oils, such as lemongrass oil and May Chang oil, were incorporated into polyvinyl alcohol nanofibers using emulsion electrospinning. The fiber morphology, oil distribution, and pore size distribution of the nanofibrous composite membranes were examined. The antimicrobial and deodorizing effects, tensile properties, and release behavior of the functional ingredients from the composite membranes were investigated to examine their use in sanitary napkins. Core–sheath nanofibers, in which lemongrass oil or May Chang oil was uniformly distributed within the fiber core, were fabricated using various oil contents. The essential oil-loaded nanofibrous composite membranes contained pores ranging from 0.130 to 1.349 µm in size. The release profiles of the essential oils from the composite membranes over an 8 h period demonstrated a continuous release of citral and limonene. Composite membranes containing either lemongrass oil or May Chang oil exhibited outstanding antimicrobial effects against vaginal pathogens, such as Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, despite their low oil content. Deodorizing effects against ammonia gas were observed at oil contents higher than that required to achieve antimicrobial effects. The composite membranes exhibited lower Young’s modulus and greater elongation at break values under wet conditions compared to dry conditions. Our findings demonstrate that antimicrobial and deodorizing nanofibrous composite membranes based on plant-derived essential oils have the potential for use in feminine hygiene products.
HBB as a Novel Biomarker for the Diagnosis and Monitoring of Lung Cancer Regulates Cell Proliferation via ERK1/2 Pathway
Authors: Xu Xinxin , Cai Hua , Peng Jingjing , Liu Hongli , Chu Fuying
Published: April 2024

Objective: Rece nt studies have revealed that hemoglobin beta (HBB) plays an important role not only in blood disorders but also in malignancies. The aim of this study is to investigate the clinical significance, diagnostic value, and biological function of HBB in lung cancer. Methods: HBB expression was examined in lung cancer tissues and plasma samples using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and its relationship with clinical pathological characteristics was analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to evaluate the diagnostic value of HBB in lung cancer. The proliferation of A549 and SPCA1 cells was analyzed using a cell counting kit-8 assay and protein expressions were detected by western blot. Results: The expressions of HBB were found to be down-regulated in both lung cancer tissues and plasma samples. Notably, plasma HBB levels were significantly elevated in postoperative samples when compared to their preoperative counterparts. Across 66 cases of lung cancer tissues, a correlation was observed between HBB levels and both gender and tumor, node, metastasis staging. ROC curve analysis further confirmed the high diagnostic potential of HBB expression in lung cancer. Moreover, the combination of HBB and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) had greater significance than HBB or CEA alone in the diagnosis of lung cancer. Knocking out or overexpressing HBB could affect lung cancer cell proliferation through the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Conclusion: HBB can serve as a novel biomarker for the diagnosis and monitoring of lung cancer, regulating cell proliferation via the ERK1/2 pathway and playing a pivotal role in the oncogenesis and progression of the disease.
Integrative Nursing Interventions for Cancer-Related Symptoms in Oncology Inpatients: Results of a Descriptive Pilot Study
Authors: Raiber Lea , Raff Christian , Thiele Johanna , Kramer Klaus
Published: April 2024

Background:

Integrative nursing (IN) is an essential component of integrative medicine and integrative oncology. IN includes a range of external naturopathic, integrative nursing interventions, such as compresses, embrocation, and foot/hand baths, aimed at alleviating symptoms and side effects of conventional treatment. The project IMPLEMENT-UKU (“Implementation of IN at the University Hospital Ulm”) was accompanied by a descriptive pilot study on the use of IN interventions on cancer-related symptoms in oncology inpatients, the characterization of these patients and the evaluation of the impact.

Methods:

A single-arm study was conducted using a paper-based questionnaire administered before the IN interventions (t0) and 24 hours after the IN interventions (t1). Topics included sociodemographic data, symptoms, quality of life, health status, psychological burden, attitudes, and experience and satisfaction with the IN interventions. Analyses were descriptive using absolute and relative frequencies.

Results:

During the 6-month study period out of 66 patients recommended for IN consultation by medical and nursing staff on 2 wards, 62 (93.9%) accepted the offer. Of those patients who received IN, 21 patients (33.9%) participated in the study. The number of IN interventions received per patient ranged from 1 to 3 during the 24-hour survey period. And a total of 36 IN interventions were performed: The most treated body region was the feet/legs (50.0%), followed by the back (25.0%), using oils such as solum oil (41.7%) and lavender oil (13.9%). Embrocation (77.8%) was the predominant type of IN intervention. For patients, the mean FACIT-F score was 29.2 ± 12.5. The mean PHQ-4 score was 3.0 ± 1.9. Regarding sleep quality in the last 4 weeks, 13 participants (61.9%) described it as rather or very poor. Satisfaction with the IN was high, with a large proportion of participants evaluating the IN interventions very positively.

Conclusion:

The study’s findings suggest that there is a great need for IN among oncology inpatients. These patients are open to and interested in IN interventions and evaluate them positively. IN provides a promising opportunity to provide non-pharmacological support to inpatients. The integration of IN in conventional oncology care settings may enhance patient-centered care and contribute to improved patient wellbeing.
Distal Forearm Arteriovenous Fistula Maturation in Diabetic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Tayebi Pouya , Dadashi Kosar , Asgharpour Masoumeh , Moghadamnia Ali A. , Gholinia Hemmat , Bijani Ali
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Atherosclerotic disease of the forearm arteries can impede the maturation of distal fistulas in diabetic patients. The goal of this study was to look at the maturity of diabetic hemodialysis patients’ distal forearm (radiocephalic snuffbox or distal forearm) arteriovenous fistulas.

Materials and Methods

Patients with chronic renal failure who were candidates for distal forearm radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula implantation were evaluated in this cross-sectional study. Patients’ demographic details, underlying disorders, laboratory measurements, vital signs, and information on their surgery were all noted. Patients were checked for fistula development 1 week, 1 month, 2 months, and then monthly until 6 months after surgery. Arteriovenous fistula maturation characterized by optimal blood flow, vessel dilation, and structural adaptations.

Results

Among 343 patients (56% male, 44% female, mean age: 57.32 ± 12.48 years), hypertension prevailed (81.9%), followed by hyperlipidemia (42.3%) and coronary artery disease history (25.9%). AVFs achieved 58.3% maturation in 64.98 ± 11.05 days; higher BP during creation correlated with successful maturation (17.02 ± 1.46 mmHg vs 13.90 ± 1.93 mmHg, P < .05). No significant statistical difference found in distal forearm arteriovenous fistula maturation between males (57.8%) and females (58.9%) ( P > .005). However, 41.7% of AVFs failed in 18.83 ± 17.89 days. Failed AVFs exhibited lower BP during operation and failure (11.75 ± 1.86 mmHg). Kaplan-Meier analysis depicted maturation probabilities over 90 days post-surgery.

Conclusion

Diabetes and patient sex did not affect the maturation time of distal forearm AVFs in hemodialysis patients. Increased blood pressure during and after surgery correlated with shorter maturation time.
An investigation on the use of topical antibiotics for treating eczema and dermatitis in China
Authors: Shao Juan , Wang Xin , Zhang Zhongwen , Li Linfeng
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Bacterial infection secondary to eczema and dermatitis occurs frequently. However, due to the inconvenience of clinical bacterial culture procedure, clinical diagnosis of bacterial infection following eczema is typically based on the appearance of skin lesions. To date, no surveys on the use of topical antibiotics for treating eczema and dermatitis in China have been carried out. Methods: The present study investigated the factors influencing the use of topical antibiotics to treat eczema and dermatitis in China. Logistic regression model and chi-square test were employed to examine whether topical antibiotics cause contact irritation. Results: It was found that the proportion of patients with eczema and dermatitis who were previously treated with topical antibiotics was 72.40%. The patients’ residence regions (southern vs northern territories, p < .001), hospital levels (secondary-level and below vs third-level hospitals, p = .004), itching degrees (no itching, itching does not require scratching, itching requires scratching, and scratching affects sleep and life quality, p < .001), skin infection status (no obvious infection phenomenon, possible infection, and clear infection, p = .001), and skin lesion infection severity (mild, moderate, and severe, p < .001) all showed statistically significant differences in the univariate analysis of antibiotic ointment treatment factors. The percentage of patients experiencing contact irritation reactions resulting from the use of topical antibiotics was 2.60%. The incidence of exposure to irritation was higher in patients who used more than two types of topical antibiotics compared to patients treated with only one type of topical antibiotic (% vs %, chi-square test, p < .001). Conclusion: The number of individuals who used topical antibiotics for eczema and dermatitis was relatively high in China. The degree of itching, infection possibility, and degree of skin lesion infection were positively correlated with the patients’ previous topical antibiotic treatment.