bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of serum irisin level and severity of erectile dysfunction in diabetic males: a cross sectional prospective study
Authors: Ragab Ahmed , Sayed Ahmed Reda , GamalEl Din Sameh Fayek , Zeidan Ashraf , Ewis Faten Fathi , Hamed Mostafa Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Background

Irisin is an exercise-induced myokine that alleviates endothelial dysfunction and reduces insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The current study aimed to assess the serum level of irisin in T2DM men with erectile dysfunction (ED) compared to T2DM patients with normal erectile function and healthy controls, as well as investigate the association between serum irisin level and the severity of ED in T2DM patients.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 90 males, divided into three groups: 32 T2DM patients with ED, 24 T2DM patients without ED, and 34 healthy controls. Socio-demographic characteristics and scores of the validated Arabic version of the international Index of Erectile Function-5 (ArIIEF-5), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) were obtained. Furthermore, routine laboratory tests employed for diabetes monitoring and serum levels of total testosterone and irisin were assessed within these groups.

Results

T2DM men with ED had significantly lower serum levels of irisin and testosterone, as well as a lower ArIIEF-5 score, but their GAD-7 and PHQ-9 scores were significantly higher than those without ED or controls (p < 0.001). Among T2DM men, serum irisin levels positively associated with ArIIEF-5 scores and serum testosterone (r = 0.413, p = 0.002; r = 0.936, p < 0.001, respectively) but negatively associated with glycosylated hemoglobin levels (r = -0.377, p = 0.004). Multivariate regression analysis to predict ED in T2DM patients found that GAD-7 score was the only most significant predictor for ED (ꞵ = − 1.176, standard error = 0.062, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The current study had demonstrated that irisin positively correlated with the ArIIEF-5 and serum testosterone but negatively correlated with HbA1c in T2DM men. Nevertheless, further validation of these findings is necessary through cohort studies.
Duck hepatitis A virus utilizes PCBP2 to facilitate viral translation and replication
Authors: Xu Chenxia , Jiang Yurui , Wang Mingshu , Cheng Anchun , Zhang Wei , Ou Xumin , Sun Di , Yang Qiao , Wu Ying , Tian Bin , He Yu , Wu Zhen , Zhang Shaqiu , Zhao Xinxin , Huang Juan , Zhu Dekang , Chen Shun , Liu Mafeng , Jia Renyong
Published: September 2024

Duck hepatitis A virus type 1 (DHAV-1) is an important member of the Picornaviridae family that causes highly fatal hepatitis in ducklings. Since picornaviruses have small genomes with limited coding capacity, they must utilize host proteins for viral cap-independent translation and RNA replication. Here, we report the role of duck poly(rC)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2) in regulating the replication and translation of DHAV-1. During DHAV-1 infection, PCBP2 expression was upregulated. A biotinylated RNA pull-down assay revealed that PCBP2 positively regulates DHAV-1 translation through specific interactions with structural domains II and III of the DHAV-1 internal ribosome entry site (IRES). Further studies revealed that PCBP2 promotes DHAV-1 replication via an interaction of its KH1 domain (aa 1–92) with DHAV-1 3Dpol. Thus, our studies demonstrated the specific role of PCBP2 in regulating DHAV-1 translation and replication, revealing a novel mechanism by which host‒virus interactions regulate viral translation and replication. These findings contribute to further understanding of the pathogenesis of picornavirus infections.
Insights from a web-based questionnaire: examining diagnostic procedures prior to magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Sosna Jacob
Published: September 2024

The appropriate use of diagnostic imaging, particularly MRI, is a critical concern in modern healthcare. This paper examines the current state of MRI utilization in Israel, drawing on a recent study by Kaim et al. that surveyed 557 Israeli adults who underwent MRI in the public health system. The study revealed that 60% of participants had undergone other imaging tests before their MRI, with 23% having more than one prior examination. While these findings highlight potential inefficiencies in the diagnostic pathway, they also underscore the complexity of medical decision-making in imaging.

The paper discusses various factors influencing MRI utilization, including regulatory pressures, healthcare system structure, and the need for evidence-based guidelines. It explores potential strategies for optimizing MRI justification and scheduling, such as implementing clinical decision support systems, enhancing interdisciplinary communication, and leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive analytics and resource optimization.

The need for comprehensive research into MRI justification and scheduling optimization is presented. Key areas for investigation include the effectiveness of decision support tools, patient outcomes, economic analyses, and the application of quality improvement methodologies.
Intraoperative pneumatic tourniquet application reduces soft-tissue microcirculation, but without affecting wound healing in calcaneal fractures
Authors: Lichte Philipp , Bläsius Felix M. , Ganse Bergita , Gueorguiev Boyko , Pastor Torsten , Nebelung Sven , Migliorini Filippo , Klos Kajetan , Modabber Ali , Scaglioni Mario F. , Schopper Clemens , Hildebrand Frank , Knobe Matthias
Published: September 2024

Background

Wound healing complications are a major challenge following the extended lateral approach in calcaneal fractures. Soft-tissue microcirculation plays an important role via the delivery of oxygen, nutrients, and the regulation of a local milieu. The aim of this clinical study was to examine the effect of intraoperative pneumatic tourniquet application on skin and subcutaneous microcirculation, and its impact on wound healing progression.

Methods

Patients with calcaneal fractures were randomly assigned to two groups defined by a surgery conducted either with use or without use of a tourniquet. Blood flow (BF [AU]), tissue oxygen saturation (SO2[%]) and the relative amount of haemoglobin (rHb[AU]) were intraoperatively measured at two depths (2 and 8 mm) non-invasively by spectrophotometry (Micro-Lightguide O2C®, LEA Medizintechnik, Giessen, Germany). Time points were before and after inflation of the pneumatic tourniquet and also at the end of surgery before deflation. A linear mixed model (LMM) was fitted for statistical analysis.

Results

Thirty-four patients (3 women and 31 men) with 37 calcaneal fractures were included. In 22 of them, the surgery was conducted with a tourniquet and in the other 15 without its use. A significant decrease of microcirculation, characterized by decreases in blood flow (p = 0.011) and tissue oxygenation (p = 0.023) was measured in 8 mm depth after inflating the tourniquet. However, these changes did not influence the time of postoperative wound healing.

Conclusion

The use of a pneumatic tourniquet reduces deep microcirculation without affecting postoperative wound healing.

Trial registration The study was registered in www.ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01264146).
Search for new materials based on chitosan for the protection of cultural heritage
Authors: Ermolyuk Anna , Avdanina Darya , Khayrova Adelya , Lopatin Sergey , Shumikhin Kirill , Kolganova Tat’yana , Simonenko Nikolay , Lunkov Alexey , Varlamov Valery , Shitov Mikhail , Zhgun Alexander
Published: September 2024

Microorganisms are a significant cause of damage to cultural heritage, including paintings. Currently, the palette of antiseptics that are used in painting has narrowed considerably. This is due to the increased demands placed on such substances. It was shown that low molecular weight chitosan (LMWC) obtained from the king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) exhibits high activity against dominant fungi-destructors of paintings in the State Tretyakov Gallery. Nevertheless, the increasing market demand for chitosan has prompted the exploration of alternative sources. Insects, notably the bioconverter black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), stand out as one of the most cultivated options. This study investigates the effectiveness of chitosan, isolated from H. illucens by a novel method developed by authors, in inhibiting fungi that damage tempera paintings. The activity of 33 and 39 kDa chitosans from H. illucens is comparable to the most active chitosans previously studied from P. camtschaticus. However, there are characteristic differences between these compounds, as shown by the results of FTIR spectroscopy, which may affect their consumer properties when used in paint materials. Our studies suggest that LMWC from H. illucens is a promising material that can expand the range of antiseptics used in painting.

Graphical Abstract
Fit models’ roles in identifying fit issues in the apparel technical design process and implications for improving 3D virtual fitting
Authors: Yang Yoon , Baytar Fatma
Published: September 2024

Fit sessions are essential in making well-fitted clothing. During these sessions, apparel fit is determined iteratively by a team of designers, technical designers, fit models, and merchandisers. With the advent of the digitalization of new product development processes in the fashion industry, fit sessions have been seen as a bottleneck for they are still held in person. However, the process is currently still irreplaceable, and what makes the feedback provided by fit models important is an area that has never been tapped. Therefore, the present study aimed to understand fit models’ role in fit sessions as well as how they assess the fit of garments and deliver their feedback. On-site observation during fit sessions and individual interviews with fit models were conducted. It was found that fit models gave comfort, fit, and tactile comments by testing garments while standing and moving between several postures. They had knowledge that overlapped with those of technical designers and designers and this empowerment enabled them to take part in the decision-making process in fit sessions. It also was found that fit models’ feedback on garments was essential as they were the first people to try on the garments and present the customers’ points of view.
Ultrasound-guided radial vein cannulation for general anesthesia in cases with difficult peripheral venous access: a report of two cases
Authors: Motoyama Hironori , Tokumine Joho , Saito Yukiko , Moriyama Kiyoshi , Yorozu Tomoko
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite advancements in ultrasonography, locating peripheral veins for catheter placement remains a challenge in patients with altered anatomy owing to multiple surgeries. Herein, we highlight the potential of using the radial vein as an alternative site for ultrasound-guided peripheral venous catheterization.

Case presentation

We present two cases of patients with extensive surgical histories, including multiple abdominal surgeries, leading to difficult peripheral venous access. Traditional sites for peripheral venous catheterization were unsuitable due to vein narrowing or lack of visibility. In both cases, ultrasonography helped identify the radial vein as the only viable site for catheter placement. The patients underwent successful ultrasonography-guided catheterization of the radial vein without complications, facilitating medical management, including anesthesia induction and intraoperative monitoring.

Conclusions

The radial vein is a feasible and safe alternative for ultrasound-guided peripheral venous access in patients where traditional venous access sites are compromised.
Addiction to ultra-processed foods as a mediator between psychological stress and emotional eating during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Stariolo Jasmin B. , Lemos Thayane C. , Khandpur Neha , Pereira Mirtes G. , de Oliveira Leticia , Mocaiber Izabela , Ramos Taiane C. , David Isabel A.
Published: September 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic induced psychological distress, which is linked to emotional eating and symptoms of addiction to ultra-processed foods (UPFs).

Objective

This study aimed to investigate whether symptoms of addiction to UPFs mediate the relationship between psychological stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic and emotional eating behaviour.

Methods

A cross-sectional online study was conducted from May to November 2021 among 368 undergraduate Brazilian students. The participants answered demographic questions and completed validated scales, including the Coronavirus Stress Measure, Modified Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 and Emotional Eating Questionnaire. Mediation analysis was employed to examine the hypothesised relationships.

Results

The results revealed a significant indirect effect, indicating that symptoms of food addiction mediated the association between perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic and emotional eating behaviour. Specifically, 61% of the influence of perceived stress on emotional eating during the pandemic was explained by symptoms of UPF addiction.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that addressing symptoms of UPF addiction could be pivotal in public health strategies aimed at promoting healthy eating habits among distressed undergraduate students in the post-COVID-19 era.
Immunohistochemical evaluation of CD34, CD117, and calretinin for diagnosis of hirschsprung’s disease
Authors: Ladan Amirhossein , Aslanabadi Saeed , Badebarin Davoud , Jamshidi Masoud , Farhadi Ebrahim , Hasanzadeh Nazila , Naghavi Malihe , Moharrami Yeganeh Pegah
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) is a neurogenic intestinal disorder attributed to incomplete neural crest cell migration during fetal intestinal development, leading to an aganglionic segment of the colon and functional obstruction. Associated malformations like intestinal atresia, hydronephrosis, and imperforate anus can accompany Hirschsprung’s disease. this study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Calretinin and Cajal cells (CD34 and CD117) immunohistochemical staining in improving HD diagnosis.

Methods

The study involved 70 pediatric patients suspected of Hirschsprung’s disease. Clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical analyses were conducted, focusing on calretinin, CD34, and CD117 markers to identify ganglion cells and Cajal cells. Data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software.

Results

In the examination of the samples, the calretinin marker exhibited a consistent accuracy of 100% in diagnosing Hirschsprung’s disease (with sensitivity and specificity both at 100%). Regarding the markers for Cajal cells in cases of Hirschsprung’s disease, an irregularity in the arrangement of Cajal cells was observed, which was absent in normal cases. These markers also demonstrated a specificity and sensitivity of 100% in diagnosing the disease.

Conclusion

Hirschsprung’s disease remains a complex condition with multifaceted pathophysiological mechanisms. Calretinin immunohistochemical staining offers enhanced diagnostic accuracy, while the debate surrounding ICC distribution underscores the need for advanced diagnostic techniques. Further research is warranted to unravel the intricacies of Hirschsprung’s disease and its associated complications.
The influence of fire mosaics on mammal occurrence in north-western Australia
Authors: Moore Harry A. , Gibson Lesley A. , Nimmo Dale G.
Published: September 2024

Background

Understanding the relationship between fire and species habitat preferences is critical in an era of rapid environmental change. In northern Australia, large, intense, and frequent fires are thought to be a primary cause of mammal population declines, particularly through their influence on habitat suitability. Here, we used a large species presence database in combination with satellite-derived fire history data to assess the influence of fire attributes, including burn extent, frequency, and pyrodiversity, on the likelihood of occurrence of eight mammal species in north-west Western Australia.

Results

The likelihood of occurrence declined for some species with an increasing proportion of recently burnt habitat and increased for most species with an increasing proportion of long unburnt habitat. The occurrence of six species was negatively correlated with increasing fire frequency, while the occurrence of four species was positively correlated with increasing pyrodiversity.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that fire likely plays an important role in influencing mammal occurrence in the Pilbara and support previous research indicating that frequent large-scale burns have a mostly negative impact on small to medium-sized mammals in northern Australia. To improve mammal habitat suitability, land managers should aim to reduce the extent of large late dry season burns and increase the availability of mature spinifex grasslands.
Platelet indices as a predictor in patients with aplastic anemia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura: a retrospective case–control study
Authors: Abdel Hi Mahynour Z. , Khaled Safaa A. A. , Mahran Dalia G , Aly Mai M.
Published: September 2024

Background and objectives

Platelet indices are widely available and relatively cheap platelet parameters. The critical objective of this study is to assess the reliability of platelet indices as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in adult thrombocytopenic patients.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study, including 81 immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) cases, 50 aplastic anemia (AA) cases, and 150 participants as a control group. This study included patients admitted from 2016 to 2021 to the Clinical Hematology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital. The collected data included sociodemographic information, clinical data, laboratory data, and an assessment of the therapeutic response in the studied groups.

Results

For the diagnosis of adult thrombocytopenic patients, platelet distribution width (PDW) showed the best diagnostic accuracy (85% for ITP and 91.9% for AA) at cutoff points of 14.9% and 17.2%, respectively. This was followed by mean platelet volume (MPV) with diagnostic accuracies of 77% for ITP and 89.3% for AA at a cutoff point of 9.4 fl. Platelet large cell ratio (PLCR) demonstrated insignificant accuracy in diagnosing either ITP or AA.

Conclusion

Platelet indices can play a crucial influence in the diagnosis, not the prognosis, of adult thrombocytopenia.

Trial registration

NCT05116033. https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05116033
Accuracy of convex probe EBUS-TBNA versus FDG-PET/CT imaging in diagnosis and mediastinal staging of lung cancer patients; an Egyptian Experience
Authors: Embaby Dalia Abd El Sattar El , Abdullah Fatema AlZahraa Abdellatif , Korraa Emad , Shalaby Heba , Ibrahim Eman Abdel-Salam , Emam Wael , Mohammad Rehab M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Appropriate staging of lung cancer is of paramount importance, as it customizes treatment and predicts prognosis. Both Fludeoxyglucose-18 (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) combined with contrast computed tomography (CT) and endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) are two widely used diagnostic modalities in the field of staging & diagnosis of lung malignancies, the former depends on image analysis while the later enables real-time sampling of lymph nodes under sonographic guidance.

Objective

To compare the diagnostic and staging accuracy of convex probe EBUS-TBNA versus FDG – PET/CT as two modalities in diagnosis & mediastinal staging of lung cancer patients.

Methods

This prospective, observational (daignostic accuracy) research was performed on 40 cases with lung malignancies. All cases were examined via FDG-PET/CT followed by convex probe EBUS-TBNA for diagnosis & staging of concurrent mediastinal lymphadenopathy (MLN).

Results

The diagnostic yield of EBUS-TBNA reached 92.5% (37/40) compared to 70% (28/40) for FDG-PET/CT. There was poor agreement between EBUS-TBNA & FDG-PET/CT regarding (MLN) staging (k = 0.043), in 16/40 patients (40%), EBUS MLN staging matched that of FDG-PET/CT, while in 24/40(60%) there were discrepancies between the two diagnostic modalities; 18/40(45%) were up-staged after EBUS while 6/40(15%) were down staged after EBUS. In addition, EBUS-TBNA confirmed occult mediastinal nodal involvement in 9/10 FDG-PET/CT negative scans (N0). The overall diagnostic accuracy of EBUS-TBNA was significantly greater than FDG-PET/CT in staging of lung cancer (97.37% & 70% respectively, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

EBUS-TBNA is a minimally invasive procedure that we currently recommend as a first choice for MLN staging.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06479798. Registered 26 June 2024—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06479798.
Influence of the use of a tablet-based clinical decision support algorithm by general practitioners on the consultation process: the example of FeverTravelApp
Authors: Vibert Jonas , Bourquin Céline , De Santis Olga , Cobuccio Ludovico , D’Acremont Valérie
Published: September 2024

Background

Despite the proven positive effects of clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) on general practitioners’ (GPs’) performance and patient management, their adoption remains slow. Several factors have been proposed to explain GPs' reluctance to adopt these tools. This study hypothesizes that the influence of CDSSs on patient-physician interactions could be a determining factor. To explore this hypothesis, we utilized the FeverTravelApp, designed to assist GPs in managing patients presenting with fever after returning from the tropics. A case–control study was conducted, observing and analyzing fourteen consultations between seven physicians and three simulated patients. Each physician conducted consultations both with and without the FeverTravelApp. The consultations were video-recorded and analyzed using a custom analysis grid based on three existing tools. Simulated patients completed the Communication Assessment Tool (CAT) after each consultation, and each physician participated in a semistructured interview following the use of the app.

Results

The use of the FeverTravelApp influenced multiple aspects of the consultation, particularly communication. Both patient and GP speaking times decreased, while active silence (no one talking while the GP actively performed a task) increased. GPs focused more on the app, which reduced direct patient interaction. However, this influence seemed to bother GPs more than simulated patients, who rated their GPs equally whether the app was used or not. This could be because patients felt better understood when GPs asked fewer but more specific questions related to travel medicine, thus effectively addressing their concerns.

Conclusions

This study supports the hypothesis that CDSSs influence consultation dynamics, which may contribute to their slow adoption. It is essential to involve clinicians early in the development of CDSSs to adapt them to clinical workflows and ensure system interoperability. Additionally, tools that allow clinicians to follow the entire clinical reasoning process, such as decision trees, are needed. Further research is necessary to confirm these findings in real patient settings and to develop CDSSs that meet both patients’ and GPs’ expectations.
Air quality and mental illness: role of bioaerosols, causal mechanisms and research priorities
Authors: Bhui Kamaldeep , Ucci Marcella , Kumar Prashant , Jackson Simon K. , Whitby Corinne , Colbeck Ian , Pfrang Christian , Nasir Zaheer A. , Coulon Frederic
Published: September 2024

Background

Poor air quality can both trigger and aggravate lung and heart conditions, as well as affecting child development. It can even lead to neurological and mental health problems. However, the precise mechanisms by which air pollution affect human health are not well understood.

Aims

To promote interdisciplinary dialogue and better research based on a critical summary of evidence on air quality and health, with an emphasis on mental health, and to do so with a special focus on bioaerosols as a common but neglected air constituent.

Method

A rapid narrative review and interdisciplinary expert consultation, as is recommended for a complex and rapidly changing field of research.

Results

The research methods used to assess exposures and outcomes vary across different fields of study, resulting in a disconnect in bioaerosol and health research. We make recommendations to enhance the evidence base by standardising measures of exposure to both particulate matter in general and bioaerosols specifically. We present methods for assessing mental health and ideal designs. There is less research on bioaerosols, and we provide specific ways of measuring exposure to these. We suggest research designs for investigating causal mechanisms as important intermediate steps before undertaking larger-scale and definitive studies.

Conclusions

We propose methods for exposure and outcome measurement, as well as optimal research designs to inform the development of standards for undertaking and reporting research and for future policy.
Efficacy and Safety of Targeted Therapy for Radioiodine-Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Zhang Yuqing , Zhang Xiaoxin , Lin Lifan , Xing Mingzhao
Published: September 2024

Context

There has been considerable success in the development of drugs for targeted therapy of radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RR-DTC) and to know the safety and efficacy of these drugs will help their appropriate application.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of current targeted drug therapies for radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer.

Methods

This was a meta-analysis of relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and single-arm studies searched across PubMed, Embase, Cochranes, and Web of Sciences up to September 12, 2023. Stata15.0 software was used to assess overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), disease control rate (DCR), objective response rate (ORR), and adverse events. The Cochrane Bias Risk tool was used to assess literature quality and trial bias and RevMan 5.4 was used to generate a quality assessment map.

Results

A total of 8 RCTs and 17 single-arm studies with 3270 patients on 7 drugs—vandetanib, sorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, apatinib, donafenib, and anlotinib—were included. Targeted therapy with these drugs effectively prolonged PFS and OS in patients with RR-DTC with overall hazard ratios of 0.35 (95% CI 0.23-0.53, P < .00001) and 0.53 (95% CI 0.32-0.86, P < .00001), respectively. ORR and DCR were also prolonged, with overall risk ratios of 27.63 (95% CI 12.39-61.61, P < .00001) and 1.66 (95% CI 1.48-1.86, P < .00001), respectively. The subgroup analysis using effect size (ES) showed that apatinib had the best effect on ORR with an ES of 0.66 (95% CI 0.49-0.83, P < .00001) and DCR with a ES of 0.95 (95% CI 0.91-1.00, P < .00001). Common drug adverse events included hypertension, diarrhea, proteinuria, and fatigue.

Conclusion

The currently used targeted drug therapies for RR-DTC can significantly improve clinical outcomes, and the new drug apatinib demonstrates promise for potentially superior performance.
Ο θάνατος στη σύγχρονη Αθήνα
Authors: Τσακίρη Μαρία
Published: September 2024

Στην παρούσα διατριβή, αφού σκιαγραφήσουμε τις κύριες θεωρητικές προσεγγίσεις απέναντι στο θνήσκειν και το θάνατο και το πένθος, θα στραφούμε στους κύριους τρόπους με τους οποίους αντιλαμβανόμαστε το θάνατο. Με αυτούς τους τρόπους ως αφετηρία, θα διερευνήσουμε την παρουσία τους και τη βαρύτητά τους στην Ελλάδα σήμερα, εστιάζοντας στην Αθήνα του 21ου αιώνα. Στην ελληνική επιστημονική βιβλιογραφία παρά την ύπαρξη μιας μικρής θεωρητικής παραγωγής απουσιάζει η έρευνα στο πεδίο. Η διατριβή αυτή, φιλοδοξούμε, πέρα από το κενό που θα καλύψει στην ελληνική βιβλιογραφία, να αποτελέσει αφορμή για διεθνείς συγκριτικές έρευνες καθώς και ένα χρήσιμο εργαλείο για την διαμόρφωση τόσο της πολιτικής για την υγεία όσο και για την διαμόρφωση κοινωνικής πολιτικής.
Πλευρές του μοντερνισμού και του μεταμοντερνισμού στο έργο του Alfred Schnittke
Authors: Μανιού Αικατερίνη
Published: September 2024

Η διατριβή εξετάζει το έργο του Άλφρεντ Σνίττκε (1934-1998) μέσα από το διαλεκτικό πεδίο του μοντερνισμού και του μεταμοντερνισμού, σε συνδυασμό με την παράμετρο της σοβιετικής συνθήκης. Στόχος είναι η τεκμηριωμένη διαλεύκανση ενός σημείου τομής μεταξύ των δύο όρων, όπως αυτό αρθρώνεται κατά την εξέλιξη του έργου του, το οποίο μέχρι σήμερα έχει προσεγγισθεί ευκαιριακά και διαισθητικά. Σταδιακά διαμορφώνεται μια επιμέρους πτυχή, που αφορά τη διεύρυνση των μέσων αντιμετώπισης των παραπάνω όρων εντός ιστορικής/γεωγραφικής/πολιτισμικής ετερότητας, με παράλληλη πρόταση διεπιστημονικών εργαλείων προσέγγισης και ανάλυσης. Το 1ο κεφάλαιο, εισαγωγικού χαρακτήρα, πραγματεύεται διεξοδικά το φαινόμενο του μοντερνισμού και του μεταμοντερνισμού παρακολουθώντας το ιστορικά, αισθητικά και κοινωνιολογικά. Το 2ο εστιάζει στο συνθέτη, στην κοσμοαντίληψη και στη στάση του απέναντι στη μουσική δημιουργία. Η εικόνα συμπληρώνεται από τη συμπερίληψη μερικώς αναθεωρημένης περιοδολόγησης έργου και χαρτογράφησης του σοβιετικού περιβάλλοντος της εποχής. Στο 3ο κεφάλαιο παρουσιάζεται άμεσα η σχέση του Σνίττκε με τον μοντερνισμό και τον μεταμοντερνισμό, ενώ καταλήγει στη λεπτομερή μελέτη ανάπτυξης της τεχνικής της πολυστυλιστικότητας και στον επαναπροσδιορισμό της υφολογικά, τεχνικά και ιδεολογικά. Στο 4ο κεφάλαιο στεγάζονται οι αναλύσεις εννέα έργων εκτεινόμενων στο σύνολο της μουσικής πορείας του συνθέτη. Με συνδυαστική χρήση εργαλείων από τη συστηματική, ιστορική και νέα μουσικολογία, και παράλληλη έμφαση στην ιστορία των κοινωνιολογικών ιδεών, συντάσσονται τέσσερα εκτενή υποκεφάλαια: Εντός τους καταγράφονται βαθμιαία και αποκωδικοποιούνται οι τεχνικές παγίωσης ενός μεταιχμιακού χώρου, όπου εναποτίθεται ό,τι ο συνθέτης εντάσσει στο ζητούμενο της αυθεντικής δημιουργίας.
Transformative social innovation and rural collaborative workspace assemblages as a means of prefiguring community economies
Authors: Stockdale Colm , Avdikos Vasilis
Published: September 2024

Background Collaborative Workspaces are rapidly growing and evolving across the world. Traditionally understood as an urban phenomenon, most research understands them as either ‘entrepreneurial-led’, as profit-driven and commercial spaces such as business incubators and accelerators, or ‘community-led’ as being bottom-up, not-for-profit ventures aimed at catering for the needs of their community. Recent years however have seen their diffusion beyond large urban agglomerations to small towns and villages, with their functions assumed to be more community-orientated. At the same time, social innovation, or social innovation processes have been gaining prominence in academia, policy, and practice, as they address societal problems and hold potential for new forms of social relations. This paper attempts to provide a novel framework towards understanding the transformative potential of rural collaborative workspaces, as they engage in processes of social innovation, by drawing from diverse and community economies literature and assemblage thinking. Methods The paper uses international case study comparison between rural Austria and Greece (One case from each country). Methods applied were: semi-structured interviews (N=28), participant observation and focus groups (2). Results Community-led rural collaborative workspaces hold transformative potential from i) their ability to assist rural actors with their capacities and realizing their desires and ii) changing individual subjectivities towards collective. Through changing social relations in praxis and perceptions, we examine how social innovation processes through collaborative workspaces can be understood as a means of opening new economic subjectivities towards creating community economies as their transformative potential. Conclusions Although rural collaborative workspaces hold potential for societal transformation, they require further institutionalization and support to move beyond the interstitial and symbiotic stages of transformation.
Determining the relationship between mobile phone network signal strength and radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure: protocol and pilot study to derive conversion functions
Authors: Sandoval-Diez Nekane , Belácková Lea , Fernandes Veludo Adriana , Jalilian Hamed , Guida Florence , Deltour Isabelle , Thielens Arno , Zahner Marco , Fröhlich Jürg , Huss Anke , Röösli Martin
Published: September 2024

Mobile phones continuously monitor and evaluate indicators of the received signal strengths from surrounding base stations to optimise wireless services. These signal strength indicators (SSIs) offer the potential for assessing radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposure on a population scale, as they can be related to exposure from both base stations and handset devices. Within the ETAIN (Exposure To electromAgnetic fields and plaNetary health) project, an open-access RF-EMF exposure app for smartphones, named "5G Scientist Monitor”, has been developed using citizen science. This paper delineates a measurement protocol for deriving formulas to convert the app SSIs into electric field values to estimate RF-EMF exposure. It presents pilot study results from measurements taken at four locations in Lyon, France (FR), and 14 locations in the Netherlands (NL), using three different phone models and the most common network providers in each country. The measurements were conducted while executing different usage scenarios, such as calls or data transmission. The exposimeter ExpoM-RF4 and on-body electric field probes were used to measure exposure from far-field sources and the handset, respectively. Two-minute aggregates were considered the sample unit for analyses (n=891 in NL and n=395 in FR). Regression analyses showed a positive log-linear relationship between Long Term Evolution (LTE) SSIs and far-field RF-EMF exposure when aggregating data by location (coefficients for the normalised RSSI: 0.91 [95% CI: 0.55 - 1.28] in FR, 1.09 [95% CI: 0.96 - 1.22] in NL). Negative log-linear trends were observed for handset-related RF-EMF exposure at the ear (-0.31 [95% CI: -0.46 - -0.16]) and chest (-0.20 [95% CI: -0.37 - -0.03]) during data transmission scenarios. These results demonstrate that the 5G-Scientist-Monitor app can be implemented for smartphone-based RF-EMF estimation. However, uncertainties in individual measurement points highlight the need for further data collection and analysis to improve the accuracy of exposure estimates.
Low-Rank Robust Subspace Tensor Clustering for Metro Passenger Flow Modeling
Authors: Sergin Nurretin Dorukhan , Hu Jiuyun , Li Ziyue , Zhang Chen , Tsung Fugee , Yan Hao
Published: September 2024

Tensor clustering has become an important topic, specifically in spatiotemporal modeling, because of its ability to cluster spatial modes (e.g., stations or road segments) and temporal modes (e.g., time of day or day of the week). Our motivating example is from subway passenger flow modeling, where similarities between stations are commonly found. However, the challenges lie in the innate high-dimensionality of tensors and also the potential existence of anomalies. This is because the three tasks, that is, dimension reduction, clustering, and anomaly decomposition, are intercorrelated with each other, and treating them in a separate manner will render a suboptimal performance. Thus, in this work, we design a tensor-based subspace clustering and anomaly decomposition technique for simultaneous outlier-robust dimension reduction and clustering for high-dimensional tensors. To achieve this, a novel low-rank robust subspace clustering decomposition model is proposed by combining Tucker decomposition, sparse anomaly decomposition, and subspace clustering. An effective algorithm based on Block Coordinate Descent is proposed to update the parameters. Prudent experiments prove the effectiveness of the proposed framework via the simulation study, with a gain of +25% clustering accuracy over benchmark methods in a hard case. The interrelations of the three tasks are also analyzed via ablation studies, validating the interrelation assumption. Moreover, a case study in station clustering based on real passenger flow data is conducted, with quite valuable insights discovered.

History: Bianca Maria Colosimo served as the senior editor for this article.

Funding: H. Yan is partially funded by DOE [DE-EE0009354] and NSF [CMMI 2316654]. F. Tsung is partially funded with the RGC [GRF 16201718 and 16216119]. The authors appreciate the help from the Hong Kong MTR Co. research, marketing, and customer service teams.

Data Ethics & Reproducibility Note: The code capsule is available on Code Ocean at https://codeocean.com/capsule/6536164/tree and in the e-Companion to this article (available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ijds.2022.0028 ).
An evaluation of a quality improvement initiative examining benefits and enablers and challenges and barriers of implementing and embedding core clinical supervision in primary care
Authors: Goode Sarah , Cross Debbie , Hodge Gemma
Published: September 2024

Background

Core Clinical Supervision has become a valued activity that impacts on the culture and organisational delivery of healthcare. It embeds good practice to ensure that staff have a high skill set, desirable professional attitudes, and provide high quality evidence-based care. It also helps to support good clinical governance and enhances staff retention (CQC 2013). A supervision framework has been adopted and adapted from the ‘General Practice – Developing confidence, capability, and capacity. A Ten Point Action Plan for General Practice Nursing’ ( NHS England 2018 ) and applied at scale across Yorkshire and the Humber, with minimal impact on clinical capacity, quality, and safety. This initiative coincides with general practice (and the wider health service) being under enormous pressure managing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with impact on staff wellbeing and retention. The main aims are to evaluate the impact of embedding the Core Supervision training across primary care practice and strengthen course content for future delivery.

Methodology and Methods

A quantitative approach using an online survey, was completed by multi-professional primary care staff who had completed the Core Supervision Training.

Findings

Practitioners indicated that they required protected time due to competing demands and visible senior buy in to undertake core supervision. Additionally, practitioners who had participated or supervised sessions felt the benefits on staff wellbeing and indicated that it improved patient care delivery.

Conclusion and Implications

Survey findings suggest further research on embedding core supervision within primary care and a focus on national and local strategies are required. Standardised learning outcomes across the regions to ensure transferability of supervision practice and review training in supervision processes, particularly around conducting a supervision session.
Partnership to Increase Care Access Through Mobile Outreach to Migrant Farm Communities: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Laham Kelly B. , Duea Stephanie R. , Sigmon Lorie B. , Santibanez-Mendez Angelica , Koernig Hannah L.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Background: Health care access for migrant farmworkers is limited given the nature of seasonal farm work, including migration patterns, capacity, and availability of local community health services. Consideration of these contextual elements when exploring a community–academic partnership to increase access to care for migrant farmworkers is essential. Objective: Explore the partnerships and processes for integrating nursing faculty and students from a regional public university’s school of nursing into a farmworker health outreach program’s mobile clinic process. Methods: A feasibility study was undertaken using Bowen et al.’s feasibility framework. Results: Integrating faculty and students into the farmworker health outreach program’s mobile clinic process was determined to be feasible. Conclusions: Integrating faculty providers and students into a farmworker outreach program’s mobile health process has several nuances requiring consideration before operationalizing the partnership, including nursing faculty practice (e.g., credentialing, malpractice insurance), student clinical placement processes, the farmworker outreach program’s processes, and farmworker availability.
Toward a Method of Paying Attention: The Ethics of Magnification in William S. Burroughs's Naked Lunch
Authors: Taylor Laurel
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Utilizing Donna Haraway's trope of the scanning electron microscope, this article shows how, by magnifying bodily porosity, multiplicity, and vulnerability, William Burroughs's Naked Lunch trains its readers in a certain ethical and affective posture toward people who use drugs, which the author calls "paying attention." As a method of reading addiction literature, "paying attention" means reading closely but not in order to diagnose. It also means prioritizing description over interpretation, while "paying attention" to real people who use drugs means striving to remain in open and reciprocal (rather than closed and hierarchical) relationship with them. In other words, we are moved to empathy and self-modification through a process of self-recognition in their struggle and approaching the question of "recovery" collaboratively and only insofar as they have defined what such positive change looks like for them.
Particle characterization by analyzing light scattering signals with a machine learning approach
Authors: Schaefer Walter , Li Lingxi
Published: September 2024

We present here a new instrument, to our knowledge, in combination with a machine learning approach to achieve a more cost-effective and compact measurement instrument for particle characterization in a flow based on the established measurement technique known as the time-shift-time-of-flight (TSTOF) technique. A commercial device based on TSTOF was introduced and has since been recognized under the brand name SpraySpy. In this study, we propose a machine learning model capable of using only a single signal in this device to determine the same information about particles such as particle size and particle velocity, traditionally obtained from the classical measurement device based on the TSTOF technique, where four signals have been used. To achieve this, we train a machine learning model using the four signals, but connect only a single signal to the model in the final step. The initial experimental results have been conducted, and preliminary calculations demonstrate high potential for this method. By applying this method, one light source and three detectors, along with the corresponding electronics and optics, can be eliminated from a TSTOF measurement instrument. This not only reduces hardware costs but also enables the production of a smaller measurement probe and the use of a single signal acquisition system without the need for synchronization.
Polarization-independent and high-efficiency 2D dielectric transmission grating under Littrow incidence
Authors: Qiao Mingle , Xie Yongfang , Kang Shihao , Wang Jin , Zhou Changhe
Published: September 2024

In this paper, a transmission two-dimensional (2D) all-dielectric grating with cuboid arrays is proposed, which has high diffraction efficiency and good polarization independence under Littrow mounting conditions at an incident wavelength of 780 nm. The optimization results indicate that when the incident wavelength is 780 nm, the diffraction efficiency of the (−1, 0) order of transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarizations can reach 98.62% and 98.23%, respectively, with the polarization-dependent loss (PDL) of 0.017 dB. To the best of our knowledge, high-efficiency polarization-independent 2D transmission grating with a simpler and more effective structure is proposed for the first time, which demonstrates significant enhancements in bandwidth and manufacturing tolerances while maintaining high diffraction efficiency. The results suggest that the grating has great potential for applications in high-precision displacement measurements such as grating interferometers.
Non-paraxial effect in dual-pulse laser energy deposition
Authors: Tropina Albina , Miles Richard B. , Shneider Mikhail N.
Published: September 2024

In this paper we study defocusing and non-paraxial effects associated with nanosecond pulsed laser beam propagation through femtosecond laser generated plasmas. Simulations were performed using a non-reduced wave propagation equation to highlight the role of spatial beam shaping of the nanosecond pulse in improving the laser propagation characteristics. We show that optimizing the shape of the laser intensity profile at the focus using a beam with the ring-liked focus helps to reduce both defocusing and non-paraxial effects.
Fast X-ray trimodal computed tomography with an improved diffraction enhanced imaging method
Authors: Zhou Chenpeng , Wang Yan , Zhang Jin , Wang Shanfeng , Zhao Xinyu , Huang Wanxia , Zhang Kai , Yuan Qingxi
Published: September 2024

The rapid acquisition of projective images with low radiation dose is essential in computed tomography with diffraction enhanced imaging to extract absorption, refraction, and scattering images from weakly absorbing specimens. This plays a critical role in applying diffraction enhanced imaging to biological and medical imaging. In this study, an improved diffraction enhanced imaging method is proposed to rapidly implement X-ray trimodal computed tomography. This method positions the sample in a specific region near the analyzer crystal, allowing the simultaneous acquisition of transmitted and diffracted images in a single exposure. When combined with computed tomography, three different sample properties, known as absorption, phase and scattering, can be reconstructed simultaneously by collecting the projective images as the sample rotates from 0° to 360°. The experimental results demonstrate that this straightforward method enables the quantitative extraction of sample information and simplifies the data acquisition procedure in computed tomography with diffraction enhanced imaging. Therefore, this novel method offers the advantages of straightforward imaging device, rapid CT data acquisition, low radiation dose and more comprehensive sample information extraction.
Diffractive microoptics in porous silicon oxide by grayscale lithography
Authors: Siegle Leander , Xie Dajie , Richards Corey A. , Braun Paul V. , Giessen Harald
Published: September 2024

We demonstrate focusing as well as imaging using diffractive microoptics, manufactured by two-photon polymerization grayscale lithography (2GL), that have been 3D printed into porous silicon oxide. While typical doublet lens systems require support structures that hold the lenses in place, our optics are held by the porous media itself, decreasing both the fabrication time and design constraints while increasing the optically active area. Compared to the typical two-photon polymerization fabrication process, 2GL offers better shape accuracy while simultaneously increasing throughput. To showcase 2GL manufactured optics in porous media, we fabricate singlet diffractive lenses with a diameter of 500 µm and numerical apertures of up to 0.6. We measure the intensity distribution in the focal plane, and along the optical axis. Furthermore, we design and fabricate a doublet lens system for imaging purposes with a diameter of 600 µm and thinner than 60 µm. We examine the imaging performance with a USAF 1951 resolution test chart and determine the resolution to be 287 lp/mm. 3D printing in porous SiO2 thus holds great promise for future complex and unconventional microoptical solutions.