bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the implications of using parent-teacher associations (PTAs) as a pathway for school-community development
Authors: Agyekum Boadi , Salifu Inusah , Eshun Samuel Nuamah , Asamoah Moses Kumi
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to increase understanding of the relationship between parent-teacher associations (PTAs) activities and school-community development, with a particular emphasis on the ways in which PTAs are utilized as supplemental or alternative sources of funding or support for school self-development initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is based on a case study conducted in two Ghanaian elementary schools. Field notes, in-depth interviews and observations of PTA members (n = 21) and activities make up the data. The article theoretically adopts a community development practice that is predicated on promoting solidarity and agency by upholding the ideas of felt needs, self-help and participation.

Findings

The study revealed that PTA initiatives can improve the diversity of activities available within a school while also building the skills and capacity of local communities and enabling individuals to make social connections. The study mainly recommended that in making educational systems resilient, such school-community-based resources of resilience should be preserved, fostered and valued.

Practical implications

The findings are practically relevant to local school managers and other stakeholders involved in school leadership, promoting the relationships between PTAs, school management, children’s well-being and community development, particularly in sub-Saharan African schools like those in Ghana.

Originality/value

This article explores PTA’s involvement in school-community development in Ghana, a relatively under-researched area in this approach, using a community development practice approach, highlighting PTA’s impacts, implementation and challenges at elementary schools in the post-COVID era.
Street lighting maintenance management system based on fuzzy logic
Authors: Barrios Martínez Francisco Alexei , Sierra Gil Eduardo , Borges Vasconcellos Davel Eduardo , Gondres Torné Israel
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This research was carried out in response to the need to find new alternative ways of maintaining public lighting with high pressure sodium vapor lamps. The objective was to develop a public lighting maintenance management system based on fuzzy logic that guarantees maximum energy efficiency and is economically feasible.

Design/methodology/approach

A preliminary study was carried out on the complaints due to failures of public lighting for three years in the municipality of Camagüey, Cuba, determining the failure rate of each control and the time between failures, a statistical evaluation of the time between failures was carried out identifying that this variable responds to a Weibull distribution, the membership functions of the proposed four linguistic variables and the rule base for their fuzzy sets were created, obtaining as output linguistic variable the mass replacement and cleaning time.

Findings

The fuzzy logic maintenance model developed is effective in making better use of the useful life of high-pressure sodium vapor lamps, increasing the time between maintenance operations of mass lamp replacement and mass cleaning of luminaires up to 8 and 9 years, without compromising the required lighting levels and energy efficiency.

Originality/value

The literature contains very few references to the use of condition-based maintenance in this type of system, so a novel approach by a robust heuristic model of street lighting condition-based maintenance management driven by data is proposed, the model integrates through fuzzy logic all the factors that influence the progressive deterioration of these installations and maintenance actions that guarantee compliance with the established service quality standards, with the maximum energy efficiency that is economically justified.
A game theory perspective to power acquisition during CEO transition period
Authors: Elias Rida , Farah Bassam
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study examines how CEOs-elect navigate power dynamics with incumbent CEOs during leadership transitions, focusing on their strategic choices – cooperate, defect or disengage – based on perceptions of the incumbent’s behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the game theory framework and insights from 22 interviews with executives from large Canadian organizations, we analyze CEOs-elect’s decision-making from nomination to ascension.

Findings

CEOs-elect cooperate when they anticipate the incumbent to cooperate and defect when they anticipate defection. When faced with uncertainty or signs of disengagement from the incumbent, CEOs-elect strategically choose to disengage, adopting a “No Play” strategy to preserve board trust and organizational stability.

Research limitations/implications

Findings are based on large Canadian organizations, which may limit applicability to smaller firms, family businesses or different cultural contexts. Future research should examine CEO transitions across diverse organizational and cultural settings.

Practical implications

Boards should recognize proactively manage power struggles during transitions, ensuring support for CEOs-elect and promoting cooperation with incumbents. Understanding perceived incumbent strategies can improve transition planning, minimize conflicts and improve organizational outcomes.

Originality/value

This research introduces “No Play” as a novel strategic option in CEO transitions, contributing to game theory and power dynamics literature. It also bridges gaps in understanding by linking strategic choices of CEOs-elect to perceptions of incumbent behavior and stakeholder trust.
Revaluing management work in leadership: the frontline supervisor perspective
Authors: Perry Samuel , Davis Claire
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Leadership and management have typically been defined as separate and distinct activities. This study examined the everyday management and leadership practices of police sergeants and inspectors in one UK police constabulary. Findings reveal the prominence of management work in frontline supervision, combined with aspects of leadership. However, frontline supervisors describe themselves and their work in leadership terms. The authors argue, therefore, for a revaluing of management in frontline supervision to better reflect the everyday practices of frontline supervisors.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a mixed-method approach, comprising an online self-administered survey and semi-structured interviews. The survey achieved 43 responses from sergeants and inspectors, and interviews were conducted with 10 police supervisors, recruited via purposive sampling and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis principles.

Findings

Frontline supervisors in the study defined themselves as leaders and described their work in leadership terms. However, the findings reveal that the activities performed by frontline supervisors were predominately management work, such as performance, resource management and welfare, combined with some aspects of leadership, such as change planning. Rather than conceptualising management and leadership as separate activities, the work of the frontline supervisors reveals, therefore, a blended practice of management/leadership.

Originality/value

Despite the prominence of management in their everyday work, frontline supervisors describe themselves and their work in leadership terms. The authors call for a revaluing of management work and reconceptualise the work of frontline supervisors as “managerial leadership” to better reflect management and leadership as equally valuable, interconnected and mutually dependent activities.
Martin‐Denham, S. (2024) ‘Nana, don't bother buying us new shoes, 'cos I'll not be there two minutes’: Evaluating the effectiveness of assessment hubs in re‐integrating children at risk of school exclusion into mainstream school
Authors: Martin‐Denham Sarah
Published: January 2025

This mixed‐methods study sought to determine the effectiveness of assessment hubs in re‐integrating children at risk of school exclusion into mainstream school. First, the assessment hubs provided attendance and exclusion data for 39 children who attended the hubs (KS2, n = 11 and KS3, n = 28) between January 2020 and January 2022. Second, 23 semi‐structured interviews adopting a hermeneutic phenomenological approach were conducted with caregivers of children who attended a hub. Third, three theographs depicting children's schooling were created. Quantitative data showed that 2/11 KS2 and 10/28 KS3 children successfully reintegrated into mainstream secondary school after attending an assessment hub. The remaining children were in alternative provision, either permanently or awaiting an EHC plan for specialist provision. Three themes were developed through thematic analysis of the interviews: a perfect storm; it's not rocket science; and hang on. The caregivers needed confidence in the ability of mainstream secondary schools to provide the right support at the right time in the right environment. The study found that the assessment hubs were effective in building positive relationships and supporting caregivers to understand reasons for their children's behaviours. In some cases, the assessment hubs effectively secured the most appropriate provision to meet children's needs. Most of the children needed to remain in AP permanently or await an EHC needs assessment to secure a place in specialist provision.
Choroidal thickness and vascular density after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
Authors: Skeiseid Liliane , Thomseth Vilde Marie , Achour Hamida , Forsaa Vegard Asgeir
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To study choroidal thickness (CT) and luminal areas of choroidal vessels in the setting of fovea‐off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Methods

Twenty‐seven eyes with RRD were prospectively studied before and after pars plana vitrectomy and SF6 tamponade, using swept‐source optical coherence tomography (SS‐OCT). CT was measured pre‐ and postoperatively both subfoveally and in attached macular areas. Postoperatively, the CT in previously detached or attached Early Treatment Retinopathy Diabetic Study (ETRDS) macular areas and the choroidal luminal areas were assessed.

Results

The preoperative median subfoveal CT of 260 μm (interquartile range (IQR) = 151) was significantly reduced to 200 μm (IQR = 110) 1 month postoperatively (p < 0.001). Corresponding to attached macular areas, the preoperative median CT of 184 μm (IQR = 116) was significantly reduced to 155 μm (IQR = 103) 1 month postoperatively (p = 0.03). No significant changes in CT occurred from 1 to 12 months postoperatively, either in previously detached, median 163 μm (IQR = 74) to 173 μm (IQR = 127), (p = 0.484), or in attached, 148 μm (IQR = 110) to 159 μm (IQR = 142), (p = 0,766) EDTRS areas. Median luminal areas of inner choroidal microvasculature and large choroidal vessels were 58.5% (IQR = 1.4) and 61.4% (IQR = 2.2) at 1 month, respectively, and stayed unchanged until 12 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

CT reduction 1 month after vitrectomy for fovea‐off RRD was more pronounced subfoveally than beneath attached macular areas. This finding could represent a normalization of a subfoveal choroidal swelling due to increased fluid absorption during RRD. From 1 month and onwards, the CT and luminal areas remained unchanged.
Footrot in sheep and goats: a case study
Authors: Robertson SM , Allworth MB
Published: January 2025

This observational study highlights the apparent lower severity of footrot in goats compared with sheep, the risk of false negative results from elastase tests, the need to clean contractors' equipment between properties and indicates the potential use of kidding (or lambing) time and individual mob biosecurity in managing footrot.
Informal Institutions and Multinationals' Drive Towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Dark‐Side Perspective
Authors: Umoru Ugbede , Ogundana Oyedele Martins , Mangena Musa , Udeozor Victor
Published: January 2025

This study explores the influence of informal institutions (including its dark side) on multinational enterprises (MNEs) in promoting sustainable development goals (SDGs) in a developing nation. Using qualitative interviews, we find that informal institutions, including “crime” and “corruption,” increase telecommunication MNEs' support of SDGs. Our findings underscore the critical role of understanding and harnessing informal institutions, showcasing their significant impact on shaping the actions and contributions of MNEs. This research not only contributes to institutional theory but also provides empirical evidence of MNEs positively influencing local communities for sustainable development including socially embedded projects, knowledge externalities, and rural infrastructure. The study advocates for a collaborative approach involving government, local communities, and MNEs to ensure the effective implementation of SDGs. Consequently, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, academics, and practitioners navigating the complex dynamics of MNEs' involvement in SDGs within developing countries.
Impact of a multidisciplinary diabetes care programme on glycaemic and metabolic outcomes in regional and First Nations communities: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Konantambigi Akash , Al‐Abbood Majid , Weich Belinda , Barra Debbie , Hiskens Matthew , Marathe Chinmay , Malabu Usman , Deshmukh Harshal
Published: January 2025

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses a significant public health challenge in Australia, particularly among underserved populations such as First Nations people and rural communities. In response, the Together Strong Connected Care (TSCC) programme was developed to address these disparities by offering a culturally appropriate, multidisciplinary approach to diabetes management in a regional hospital setting.

Aims

The aim of the study was to assess the impact of the TSCC programme on glycaemic and metabolic control in people living with diabetes.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study. Baseline characteristics, including age, gender, ethnicity and clinical measures, were collected. The primary outcome was the change in HbA1c over 12 months. Statistical analysis included descriptive analysis, univariate comparative analysis, paired t‐tests for change in outcomes and multivariate linear regression analysis.

Results

The study included 119 patients, divided into those who participated in the TSCC programme (n = 68) and those who declined participation (n = 51). The study participants had a mean age of 55.71 years, with 58.82% identifying as female. The mean baseline HbA1c was 8.25% (SD = 2.60) and mean baseline weight was 97.38 kg (SD = 28.81). People in the TSCC group had significantly greater reductions in HbA1c (−1.65%, P < 0.001) compared to the no‐TSCC group (+0.02%, P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, TSCC participation remained independently associated with improved glycaemic control (β = −0.78, P < 0.001), particularly in patients with T2DM.

Conclusions

The TSCC programme significantly improved glycaemic control in regional First Nations patients, supporting the effectiveness of culturally appropriate, multidisciplinary care models in managing diabetes in underserved communities. Further research is warranted to evaluate long‐term outcomes of similar interventions.
Cost burden of productivity loss due to sickness presenteeism among nurses in South Korea: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kang Minkyung , Min Ari , Park Chang , Kim Inah
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study aimed to estimate the annual cost burden of productivity loss due to sickness presenteeism among hospital nurses in South Korea.

Background

Despite nurses being potentially more vulnerable to presenteeism, few studies have analyzed nurses’ productivity losses due to sickness presenteeism.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study employed an online survey in January 2023 with 607 nurses working in general/tertiary hospitals in South Korea. The annual cost burden of productivity loss due to sickness presenteeism was calculated based on nurse health conditions, productivity loss, the number of days worked while sick, and income. This study was reported according to the STROBE checklist.

Results

Overall, 93.2% of participants (n = 566) reported at least one health condition, and musculoskeletal diseases were the most prevalent, followed by weariness or fatigue, and sleep‐related problems. Approximately 63.9% of participants reported experiencing sickness presenteeism in the preceding four weeks. Those in the severe multimorbidity group exhibited the highest prevalence of sickness presenteeism and productivity loss. The average annual cost of productivity loss due to sickness presenteeism was USD 2,388.26 per nurse and USD 382.11 million at the national level.

Discussion

The cost of sickness presenteeism is high among hospital nurses in South Korea. Nurses with severe multimorbidity engaged in more sickness presenteeism and had higher productivity losses than nurses who were relatively healthy or exhibited moderate multimorbidity.

Conclusion

These findings support the need for stakeholders to develop strategies/policies to better address nurses’ health conditions, secure better staffing, and reduce sickness presenteeism.

Implications for nursing policy

Addressing this issue will not only improve nurse well‐being and patient care but also lead to substantial cost savings for healthcare facilities. Additionally, the study findings can inform future cost‐effectiveness studies.
Seascape Genomics of Red Abalone: Limited Range‐Wide Population Structure and Evidence for Local Adaptation
Authors: Griffiths Joanna S. , Smith Kendall , Whitehead Andrew
Published: January 2025

Characterising patterns of genetic diversity including evidence of local adaptation is relevant for predicting and managing species recovering from overexploitation in the face of climate change. Red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) is a species of conservation concern due to recent declines from overharvesting, disease and climate change, resulting in the closure of commercial and recreational fisheries. Using whole‐genome resequencing data from 23 populations spanning their entire range (southern Oregon, USA, to Baja California, MEX) we investigated patterns of population connectivity and genotype‐environment associations that would reveal local adaptation across the mosaic of coastal environments that define the California Current System (CCS). We discovered high genetic diversity that is shared within and among populations, suggesting high historical range‐wide gene flow. We found little evidence for large selective sweeps between populations that occupy local habitats that vary by pH, strength of upwelling, chlorophyll, salinity and sea surface temperature. This is consistent with a broad range of species with similar life histories that show limited neutral or adaptive genetic variation across the same region and the same environments, suggesting that the mosaic of environmental variation across the CCS is insufficient to drive local adaptation in the face of high gene flow for some broad‐cast spawning species. Given the high genetic connectivity across their range, state‐mandated regulatory actions would be most effective if aligned across jurisdictional boundaries (i.e., Mexico, California and Oregon).
Big & rich: A new way to measure attention and participation diversity
Authors: Lewallen Jonathan
Published: January 2025

Policy process scholars often are interested in the relative diversity or concentration of attention across issues, or the relative participation of different groups and information sources within an issue domain or policy venue. Are policymakers devoting lots of attention to a small set of issues or dividing their attention more evenly across a larger agenda? Are a few groups dominating deliberation or is participation more evenly distributed among actors? The Shannon's H measure of information entropy has become the most common measure of diversity or concentration of attention and participation, with higher values indicating a relatively more diverse issue agenda and lower values indicating more concentration or less entropy. Many possible combinations of categories and the proportions of observations within those categories can produce statistically‐indistinguishable values, which makes Shannon's H less informative than we might like. This research note proposes new measures of richness and evenness to capture both the breadth and relative spread of attention or participation. The note provides examples of how to measure and visualize richness and evenness of attention across policy actors, the richness and evenness of actors across issues, and richness and evenness across time.
Role of Fiberoptic Bronchoscopy in Decision‐Making in the Management of Post‐Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Patients Presenting with Pulmonary Infiltrates: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mobeireek Abdulla , Weheba Ihab , Ezzat Loui , Hajji Mohammed Al , Rasheed Walid , Elhassan Tusneem , Nassani Momen , El Fakih Riad , Aljurf Mahmoud , Ahmed Liju
Published: January 2025

Background

The role of fiberoptic bronchoscopy (FOB) in the management of patients presenting with pulmonary infiltrates after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value and safety of FOB at our center.

Methods

This retrospective study included all patients with post‐HSCT pulmonary infiltrates who underwent FOB between 2016 and 2019. The demographic, clinical, interventional, microbiological, and histological data and changes in management and the 6‐month outcome were recorded.

Results

A total of 86 consecutive HSCT recipients were included. The median patient age was 34 years (range: 14–67), 53 patients (61.6%) were males. The median interval between symptom onset and FOB was 7 days (IQR: 2–17). FOB yielded a positive result in 53 patients (61.6%). The pathogen was a virus, bacteria, fungus in 29 (33.7%), 19 (22.1%), and 11 (12.8%) patients, respectively. The treatment was modified in 52 patients (60.5%) according to the FOB result. An imaging finding of “tree‐in‐bud” was associated with a positive FOB yield (p = 0.05). The timing of bronchoscopy (<4 vs. ≥5 days), graft‐versus‐host disease, neutropenia, and antimicrobial use had no significant effect (p > 0.05). No serious complications were encountered.

Conclusion

FOB led to changes in management in over half of the patients. Delay up to 1 week after presentation and empirical antimicrobials did not have any effect on the yield. FOB is a safe diagnostic tool in the post‐HSCT patients with pulmonary infiltrates.
Radiological Diversification in Indoor Radon and Thoron Levels in Correlations With Various Factors in Residential Dwellings
Authors: Mittal Sudhir
Published: January 2025

Human exposure to indoor radon, thoron, and their progenies has become a serious problem throughout the world. In the current research, assessment of indoor radon and thoron and their effect on human beings have been analyzed from 200 various locations (five samples from each location) of Jodhpur, Jhunjhunu, Bikaner, and Nagaur districts of Northern Rajasthan, India made with the help of RAD7 technique. The radon and thoron levels inside the houses of indoor air vary from 10.75 to 90 Bq m−3 and 18.65 to 210 Bq m−3, respectively. The calculated values of all dwellings of indoor radon concentration are lower than the action limit provided by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). The results calculated from absorbed dose rate to lungs, equivalent dose to lungs, effective dose to specific parts of lungs tracheobronchial, pulmonary + pulmonary lymph region, overall lung dose due to 222Rn and 220Rn exposure, annual effective dose, excess life time cancer risk (ELCR), and lung cancer cases per year per million people (LCC) due to radon and thoron level and their risk due to exposure are also discussed. In this study, we also examined the risk effect due to radon and thoron correlated with building material and ventilation conditions.
Real-Time Surface Finish Measurement of Stepped Holding Shaft by Automatic System
Authors: Deshpande Sushil V. , Pawar Ramkisan S. , Keche Ashok J. , Kurhade Anant
Published: January 2025

Surface finish measurements in manual machining were conveyed after manufacturing thereby operating to assess and adjust cutting parameters on self-skill to address targets or discrepancies leading to a chance of unpredictable defects, frequent rejection, rework of workpiece or inefficient performance. To tackle this, automatic surface finish measurement setup empowered by an algorithm with a laser triangulation sensor has been developed to furnish real-time surface finish data of manual turning of shaft. The python-based algorithm automatically computes the roughness value with linear distance of adjacent points sensed over the length of surface of each section and compares it with standard data value in algorithm. This automatic measurement and continuous comparative analysis provides live feedback on the workpiece’s surface status to an operator during manufacturing. The live continued guidance for a rough cut, semi-finish cut and finish cut for operator results through algorithm display ensures the surface finish achievement with ease in manufacturing phase-wise, thereby reducing rejection rate by 20–30%, operator figure relief 80% and increased production by 30% especially with accumulation of present operator, skill set and existing setup. Additionally, with compatibility of workpiece profile change, it saves 10–15 min per piece (26%) compared to general machining, high surface finish accuracy (error between 0.07 [Formula: see text]m and 0.075 [Formula: see text]m) which is the acceptable limit vitally reducing the need for manual inspections as compared to general machining, and provides 100% consistent display guidance. Overall, it optimizes efficiency, quality and productivity, proving to be a transformative tool for industrial manufacturing.
Maximum mass and radius of higher-dimensional anisotropic strange quark star in presence of charge
Authors: Saha A. , Goswami K. B. , Chattopadhyay P. K.
Published: January 2025

A breakthrough has been achieved in solving the Einstein field equations for a specific class of charged compact objects existing in higher dimensions with inhomogeneous matter distribution. The geometry of space-time is believed to be spheroid, encapsulated in [Formula: see text] dimensions of Euclidean space where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] be the space-time dimension. The internal physical [Formula: see text] space is elucidated by the Vaidya–Tikekar metric ansatz, which is defined by spheroidal and curvature parameters. The form of the equation of state in MIT bag model, [Formula: see text], where the constant [Formula: see text] is termed as bag constant, is implemented to investigate the relevant physical features of anisotropic strange quark stars containing a net amount of charge. The inclusion of higher dimensions effectively decreases the mass retained within a given radius of a compact object but increases its compactness. For a particular dimension, if one increases the value of [Formula: see text], the mass increases for a given value of radius. Determination of maximum radius and consequently, maximum mass have been obtained by equating the value of radial sound velocity as the extreme limit of causality [Formula: see text] at the center of the star. Both the maximum mass and radius of a given compact object are found to increase when both charge and pressure anisotropy increase and decrease for an increment of surface density or bag constant [Formula: see text]. The maximum mass attained in the model is [Formula: see text]. Prediction of the radius of some recently observed compact objects has also been done for different [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], charge and pressure anisotropy parameters. Different energy conditions and stability criteria stand up throughout the compact object containing anisotropy in pressure and net charge. The tidal deformability of some compact objects has also been investigated using the present model.
Situational Allyship, Forced Interaction, or Quasi-Military Alliance? Explaining the Growing Ties between Russia and China Since 2014
Authors: Filatov Maksym
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the main defense activities between China and Russia since 2014 that led to the growing ties between Chinese and Russian militaries, manifested by increasing arms trade, technology transfer, and bilateral military exercises. Closer cooperation has resulted in deeper integration of the two armies into a common defense space, paving the way for a quasi-military union between Russia and China in the future, as the two countries’ threat perceptions have worsened. Their continued military and defense collaboration and shared interests in a less-American order will have far-reaching implications for the security architectures in both Asia–Pacific and Eastern Europe.
Claude, ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini Performance versus Students in Different Topics of Neuroscience
Authors: Mavrych Volodymyr , Yaqinuddin Ahmed , Bolgova Olena
Published: January 2025

Despite extensive studies on large language models and their capability to respond to questions from various licensed exams, there has been limited focus on employing chatbots for specific subjects within the medical curriculum, specifically medical neuroscience. This research compared the performances of Claude 3.5 Sonnet (Anthropic), GPT-3.5, GPT-4-1106 (OpenAI), Copilot free version (Microsoft), and Gemini 1.5 Flash (Google) versus students on MCQs from the medical neuroscience course database to evaluate chatbots reliability. 5 successive attempts of each chatbot to answer 200 USMLE-style questions were evaluated based on accuracy, relevance, and comprehensiveness. MCQs were categorized into 12 categories/topics. The results indicated that at the current level of development, selected AI-driven chatbots, on average, can accurately answer 67.2% of MCQs from the medical neuroscience course, which is 7.4% below the students' average. However, Claude and GPT-4 outperformed other chatbots with 83% and 81.7% correct answers, which is better than the average student result. They followed by Copilot - 59.5%, GPT-3.5 - 58.3%, and Gemini - 53.6%. Concerning different categories, Neurocytology, Embryology, and Diencephalon were the three best topics, with average results of 78.1% - 86.7%, and the lowest results were Brainstem, Special senses, and Cerebellum, with 54.4% - 57.7% correct answers. Our study suggested that Claude and GPT-4 are currently two of the most evolved chatbots. They exhibit proficiency in answering MCQs related to neuroscience that surpasses that of the average medical student. This breakthrough indicates a significant milestone in how AI can supplement and enhance educational tools and techniques.
An International Delphi Based Study for Developing A Core Outcome Set For Hypospadias Surgery
Authors: Leunbach Tina L. , Yankovic Francisca , Springer Alexander , Wisniewski Amy , Burgu Berk , Braga Luis , Ernst Andreas , Lucas-Herald Angela , O'Toole Stuart , Ahmed S Faisal , Rawashdeh Yazan F.
Published: January 2025

Introduction
Explicit outcomes routinely measured across the life span following hypospadias surgery, defined by a core outcome set (COS), will harmonize and overcome reporting heterogeneity.

Methods
Age specific outcomes identified in a literature review were presented in a three round Delphi survey. Participants (professionals, parents and patients) were encouraged to suggest outcomes in the first Delphi round. In subsequent rounds participants were asked to choose and rank up to five preferred outcomes for each age. To be deemed core, an outcome needed over 70% of votes in a round.

Results
Professionals were mainly paediatric urologists (round 1, 2, 3: n=57 (77 %), 39 (78%), 35 (81%)). The response rates from parents/patients (round 1, 2, 3: n= 17, 5, 3) were low. In young boys (<6 years, 6-10 years) four core outcomes were identical (voiding, fistula, re-operation and urethral stricture). Core outcomes in boys aged 11-16 years (cosmesis, curvature, voiding, stricture and psychosocial status) and boys >16 years (cosmesis, curvature, erection, voiding and psychosexual development) varied more.

Conclusion
Outcomes to include in a COS were consistent in younger boys. A larger variety was observed in older boys and reflects less clarity on relevant outcomes.
Intraoperative iatrogenic type B aortic dissection. Temporary perfusion pause, immediate restoration and final solution
Authors: Pavlopoulos Dionysios , Kollias Vasilis , Toumpoulis Ioannis , Antonopoulos Kostas , Verikokos Christos , Angouras Dimitrios
Published: January 2025

We present the case of a 74-year-old female patient with a 50 mm ascending aortic aneurysm who underwent ascending aorta replacement. During routine open heart surgery, suboptimal flow in the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit, led to the discovery of a type B aortic dissection with substantial flow in the false lumen. Conservative management was chosen, focusing on blood pressure control in the ICU. Despite an initial uneventful recovery the patient developed malperfusion syndrome prompting consideration of endovascular repair. Following a temporary improvement, malperfusion symptoms recurred, leading to a successful endovascular repair, with complete thrombosis of the false lumen.
Thank you for the music: Music as a social surrogate that protects against social threats
Authors: Paravati Elaine , Naidu Esha , Gabriel Shira
Published: January 2025

Social need fulfillment is imperative to well-being, leading to a strong motivation to ensure that social needs are met. The social surrogacy hypothesis proposes that individuals may use non-human social targets, including television characters, books, or comfort foods, to address social needs. The current work sought to examine the social surrogacy hypothesis in the domain of music. Utilizing both correlational (Study 1) and experimental (Study 2) methodology, the current research suggests that music can provide social benefits in response to social threats. In addition, it suggests that music may operate via multiple social surrogate pathways (Study 1) and that the benefits of music are social in nature (Study 2).
The commercial roots of the genomic commons
Authors: Sturdy Steve
Published: January 2025

Accounts of the origins of the genomic commons typically focus on the development of public repositories and data-sharing agreements. This article tells a different story. During the 1990s in the United States, efforts of private companies to prevent the patenting of certain kinds of DNA sequences were essentially a conservative response to shifts in the sociotechnical constitution of the pharmaceutical innovation system, and to the operation of intellectual property as one of the key knowledge control regimes that regulate that system. In this context, the idea of ‘the commons’ was rehabilitated from earlier tragic theorizations to argue that industry’s ability to deliver new pharmaceutical products would be better served if certain kinds of intellectual property were left in the public domain. The genomic commons is not a neutral space of disinterested scientific research that naturally aligns with some abstract ‘public good’, but is part of an innovation system that has evolved to serve the interests of a range of stakeholders, among which the big pharmaceutical companies enjoy a dominant position.
The Association Between Father Support and Daughter Physical Activity: Insights From a Study Involving U.S. Latina Pre-Teens
Authors: Formagini Taynara , Behar Alma I. , Schneider Jennifer , Torres Marisa , Telles Victoria M. , Roesch Scott , Ayala Guadalupe X. , Baranowski Tom , Marquez Becky , Arredondo Elva M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Social support, particularly from family, is crucial for physical activity (PA) among youth. This study examined the association between father support and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in Latina pre-teens and explored the moderating role of body mass index (BMI).

Design

Cross-sectional analysis.

Setting

Baseline data from a pilot randomized controlled trial in San Diego County.

Subjects

Sixty Latina pre-teen girls aged 8-11 years.

Measures

Girls’ MVPA was measured via accelerometry. An exploratory factor analysis created a composite measure of father support, reported by mothers.

Analysis

Hierarchical linear regression models, adjusting for covariates, assessed the relationship between father support and MVPA. Interaction models tested the moderating effect of BMI z-score (zBMI).

Results

Father support was significantly associated with MVPA (b-range = 0.07 to 0.08, 95%CI = 0.02, 0.13) after adjusting for age, income, acculturation, and maternal support. However, this association became non-significant with the inclusion of zBMI (b = 0.06, 95%CI: −0.01, 0.11). The interaction model showed a significant positive association between father support and MVPA among girls with a healthy weight (b = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.27, 2.68) but not among those with overweight/obesity (b = 0.95, 95%CI: −0.38, 2.28).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a potential association between father support and daughters’ MVPA among girls with a healthy weight. Further research is needed to understand why this association is not observed in girls with overweight/obesity.
Utility Assessment of a Pharmacy to Dose Daptomycin Protocol: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Burnham Kevin , Henley Stefanie , Crotty Matthew P. , Akins Ronda L.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Pharmacy-to-dose (PTD) services describe an established practice where providers consult pharmacists for various medication dosing. In 2019, several institutions approved a daptomycin protocol, which allowed pharmacists to select doses based on provider-selected indications, renal function, and body mass index (BMI).

Objective:

This study aims to determine the utility of a daptomycin PTD consult service.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 4 community hospitals between July 19, 2019 and October 31, 2021. The 2 comparative cohorts included patients who started on daptomycin with and without PTD services. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients receiving appropriate initial dosing of daptomycin.

Results:

A total of 297 patients met the inclusion criteria, with 128 (43.1%) in the PTD group and 169 (56.9%) in the non-PTD group. The primary endpoint of appropriate initial dosing occurred significantly more in the PTD group (92.2% vs 82.8%, P = 0.02). Baseline creatine phosphokinase (CPK) was ordered significantly more in the PTD group (88.3% vs 77.5%, P = 0.02). A nonsignificant trend was seen in favor of the PTD arm (80% vs 58.3%, P = 0.22) for dose adjustments required within the first 24 hours.

Conclusion and Relevance:

The use of a PTD daptomycin protocol was associated with a significant increase in appropriate initial dosing and baseline CPK monitoring compared with traditional provider order entry.
Predictors and lesion patterns of dysphagia and swallowing outcomes after acute intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Hu Xiao , Wang Min , Wang Zijie , Xie Yanfang , Zhang Mengqiu , Zhang Shanyu , Yang Tiannan , Fang Chuanqin , Zhao Libo , Tian Yanghua , Li Qi
Published: January 2025

Background:

Dysphagia is a common complication following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and is associated with an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia and poor outcomes.

Objectives:

This study aimed to explore associated lesion patterns and contributing factors of post-ICH dysphagia, and predict dysphagia outcomes following ICH.

Design:

A multicenter, prospective study.

Methods:

Patients with ICH from two stroke centers within 72 h of symptom onset received baseline bedside swallowing evaluations. Dysphagia-related lesion patterns were identified using support-vector regression-based lesion-symptom mapping. Predictors of swallowing impairment on the 7th and 30th day, as well as stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP), were determined through multiple logistic regression analyses, and nomograms were developed.

Results:

A total of 153 patients were included in the final analysis. Of those, 28 had dysphagia. Dysphagia-related lesions predominantly affected bilateral subcortical and adjacent cortical regions. Stroke severity, hematoma expansion, and basal ganglia hemorrhage were significantly associated with initial dysphagia. Baseline aspiration risk and age were identified as independent predictors of impaired swallowing function on days 7 and 30, and SAP. Moreover, ICH volume was significantly correlated with swallowing impairment on day 7 and SAP occurrence. Midline shift and basal ganglia hematoma remained independent predictors of impaired swallowing on day 30. Predictive models for swallowing impairment on days 7 and 30, as well as SAP, demonstrated strong calibration and discriminatory ability, with C indices of 0.867, 0.895, and 0.773, respectively.

Conclusion:

Post-ICH dysphagia can be predicted based on stroke severity, hematoma expansion, and basal ganglia hemorrhage. Incorporating aspiration risk and imaging evaluation can further improve the identification of patients at high risk for swallowing impairment at both 1 week and 1 month after ICH.
Drug interactions in patients with alcohol use disorder: results from a real-world study on an addiction-specific ward
Authors: Schröder Sebastian , Massarou Christina , Pfister Tabea , Bleich Stefan , Proskynitopoulos Phileas Johannes , Heck Johannes , Schulze Westhoff Martin , Glahn Alexander
Published: January 2025

Background:

The majority of patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) regularly take medication. Alcohol interacts negatively with many commonly prescribed drugs. However, little is known about the characteristics and frequency of potential alcohol–medication and drug–drug interactions in patients with AUD.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and characteristics of drug interactions in patients with AUD during withdrawal therapy on an addiction-specific ward.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

Medication charts were analyzed and screened for potential alcohol–medication and drug–drug interactions. For the screening of potential alcohol–medication interactions, the drugs.com classification was utilized and potential drug–drug interactions were identified using the mediQ electronic interaction program.

Results:

In our study, almost two-thirds (66.3%; 1089/1643) of all patient cases were prescribed at least one drug that could potentially interact with alcohol. Four percent of all alcohol–medication interactions were classified as severe, 91.8% as moderate, and 4.3% as mild. Drug classes commonly involved in serious interactions with alcohol were analgesics and drugs used in diabetes. A total of 811 potential drug–drug interactions were identified, of which 3.3% were classified as severe and 96.5% as moderate. Psychoanaleptics (ATC N06) and psycholeptics (ATC N05) were most frequently associated with moderate to severe interactions.

Conclusion:

Potential alcohol–medication and drug–drug interactions are common in hospitalized patients with AUD. Improvements in the quality of prescribing should focus on the use of psychotropic drugs.
An investigation on mechanical strength of fused filament fabricated and injection molded ASA parts
Authors: Tripathy Chitta Ranjan , Sharma Rajiv Kumar , Rattan Virender Kumar
Published: January 2025

The fused filament fabrication (FFF) process is widely used to fabricate components through a layering approach, also referred to as 3D printing. The fabricated component’s mechanical characteristics are influenced by process variables like raster width, build orientation, raster angle, raster gap etc. Therefore, exploring the effect of processing variables on the mechanical behavior of the fabricated components is crucial. The present work focused on investigating the influence of processing variables on the impact and flexural strength of the Acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate (ASA) component produced through FFF and injection molding (IM). This investigation uses the Taguchi Design of Experiment (DOE) technique along with Gray relational analysis (GRA) in a combination of analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine the optimum set of processing variables. From the study, it has been found that the flexural and impact strengths of the FFF sample are 1.11% and 44.36% higher than the IM sample, respectively.
Immunohistochemical expression of parathyroid hormone-related protein and ezrin in invasive breast carcinoma of no special type: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Shalaby Menna Allah Gamil Ali , Dawoud Marwa Mohammed , Gadallah Marwa Salah , Abdou Asmaa Gaber
Published: January 2025

Background

Globally, breast cancer ranks among the most common malignancies and has a high mortality rate. Invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (IBC-NST) presents a heterogeneous group with variable prognosis. Identifying reliable biomarkers is crucial for improving treatment strategies and predicting outcomes. This study investigates the immunohistochemical expression of parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) and ezrin in IBC-NST and their correlation with clinicopathological features and overall survival.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 160 paraffin-embedded tissue samples, including 123 IBC-NST and 37 normal breast tissues, collected from patients treated at Menoufia University Hospital during the period from January 2018 to January 2022. Immunohistochemical staining for PTHrP and ezrin was performed, and expression levels were quantified using the H score.

Results

PTHrP expression was significantly higher in IBC-NST than in adjacent DCIS and normal tissues (p < 0.001). High PTHrP percent of expression was associated with metastasis (p = 0.009), bone metastasis (p = 0.012), and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.037). Ezrin expression was also significantly elevated in IBC-NST, with higher H score values correlating with high tumor grade (p = 0.002), high N stage (p = 0.045), advanced AJCC stage grouping (p = 0.0043) and metastasis (p = 0.001). A significant positive correlation was observed between PTHrP and ezrin expression (rs = 0.341, p < 0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that high ezrin expression, in terms of intensity (p = 0.007) and H score (p = 0.002), was linked to poorer survival.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant roles of PTHrP and ezrin in breast cancer progression. Elevated levels of these proteins are associated with more aggressive disease, suggesting their capability as prognostic indicators and treatment targets in breast cancer. Additional studies are required to investigate their interaction and collective influence on breast cancer metastasis and treatment.