bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political parties, candidate selections, inequality, proportionality and Mr Dhamija
Authors: Hayes Josephine
Published: December 2024

The low representation of women and members of disadvantaged minorities in parliaments is a global phenomenon. In most EU countries, and some outside the EU, political parties are permitted to use positive action voluntarily when selecting their candidates for such bodies. The UK Parliament gave political parties such permission when selecting candidates for certain elected bodies, subject to a requirement of proportionality. In Dhamija v Liberal Democrats in England [2019] EWHC 1398 (QB) a political party had sought to take advantage of the permission by adjusting candidates’ rankings on its party lists for the European Parliamentary elections. The scheme caused dispute, and the High Court in London had to decide with great expedition whether the scheme was unlawful. This article examines section 104 of the Equality Act 2010 and the judge’s approach to it and concludes that the approach rendered section 104 of the Act unworkable and should be overruled. The article argues that, correctly understood, UK law does not set the UK apart from comparable European democracies. It is hoped that this article will also be a useful case study for other jurisdictions.
Integrating sleep care in psychological practice: A survey of Brazilian clinical psychologists and a global bibliometric analysis
Authors: Soalheiro Luisa Marilac , Benfica Mateus Assis , Brandão Beatriz de Jesus , Paiva Rafaella Valete Nunes , Carvalho Lázaro Dias , Paranhos Rita de Cássia Menezes , Ferreira Laiane Tavares de Jesus , Moreno Antonio Maurício , Barbosa Paulo César Ribeiro , Tamura Eduardo Koji
Published: December 2024

Given psychologists’ role and the use of psychotherapies for sleep issues, our study explored: (1) whether psychologists inquire about patients’ sleep quality and their beliefs regarding the relationship between mental health and biological rhythms, and (2) global trends in psychological approaches through a bibliometric analysis. We analyzed responses from 1011 Brazilian clinical psychologists (October 2018–May 2019) and found that most routinely inquire about sleep quality and address sleep problems, while a small portion did not perceive a direct link between mental disorders and biological rhythms. Behavioral psychotherapy practitioners showed greater interest in sleep quality. The bibliometric analysis revealed that cognitive behavioral therapy had the strongest associations with sleep-related terms compared to other approaches. In conclusion, clinical psychology plays a key role in addressing human health. Given rising concerns about biological rhythms, further exploration across psychological approaches is essential, especially to enhance education in this field.
Learners’ perceptions of corrective feedback during written telecollaboration
Authors: Sippel Lieselotte , Martin Ines A.
Published: December 2024

This study examined learners’ perceptions of telecollaboration, specifically an email exchange between learners in the US and Germany, and of peer and teacher corrective feedback (CF) during the exchange. Participants were 38 learners from a second-semester German course at a US university. Their virtual exchange partners were learners of English at a German high school. Learners were assigned to a telecollaboration + peer feedback (PeerF) condition ( N = 15), a telecollaboration + teacher feedback (TeacherF) condition ( N = 10), or a telecollaboration-only (Control) condition ( N = 13). Each week, they sent one email in German and one email in English to their partners. While the PeerF Group received CF on their emails from their partners, the TeacherF Group received feedback from their instructor, and the Control Group did not receive feedback. Quantitative and qualitative data from a survey and semi-structured interviews indicated that all learners strongly believed in both the effectiveness of telecollaboration and CF during telecollaboration. However, learners in the TeacherF Group found telecollaboration significantly less enjoyable than learners in the PeerF Group. Moreover, learners in both feedback groups favored receiving CF from an email partner over CF from a teacher. Pedagogical implications of these findings are discussed.
Proactivity punished: Nativist bias in advice seeking
Authors: Trapido Denis
Published: December 2024

This study theorizes a nativist bias in interpersonal advice seeking within organizations and empirically assesses its effects. Extending the existing discrimination and social networks research, I argue that the effects of nativism—a bias against foreigners—in advice seeking and other network relations cannot be validly inferred from native/nonnative outcome inequalities. Instead, the effects of nativism in social networks are revealed in natives’ asymmetric behaviors and attitudes that disadvantage nonnatives. It is hypothesized that, other things being equal, natives seek task-related advice across the nativity divide less frequently than nonnatives do. In another manifestation of nativism, native advice seeking targets perceive nonnatives who seek their advice as less competent than those nonnatives who do not seek their advice. Consistent evidence of these patterns was found in four separate networks of working professionals. These findings have implications for the study of discriminatory biases in social networks and for countering such biases in organizational and educational settings.
Approximate solutions of Korteweg-de Vries-Benjamin-Bona-Mahony-Burgers equation with dissipative terms
Authors: Qin Chun-Yan , Li Yao-Hong , Ma Pan-Li , Jin Shou-Bo
Published: December 2024

In this paper, the Korteweg-de Vries-Benjamin-Bona-Mahony-Burgers (KdV-BBM-B) equation is investigated which plays an essential role in numerous subjects of engineering and science. Using the theory of planar dynamical systems, we qualitatively analyze the bounded traveling wave solutions of the KdV-BBM-B equation. The conditions about the presence of bounded traveling wave solutions are obtained resoundingly. Meanwhile, the relationships between the waveform of the bounded traveling wave solution and the dissipation coefficient γ are investigated. Furthermore, when the absolute value of the dissipation coefficient γ is bigger than the critical value, the equation has a kink solitary wave solution. Nevertheless, when | γ| is less than the critical value, the solution has oscillatory and damped properties. According to the evolution relations of orbits in the global phase portraits which the damped oscillatory solutions correspond to, by using undetermined coefficients method, we obtain the approximate damped oscillatory solutions with a bell head and oscillatory tail, and the approximate damped oscillatory solutions with a kink head and oscillatory tail. By the idea of homogenization principle, we give the error estimates for these approximate solutions by establishing the integral equations reflecting the relations between approximate damped oscillatory solutions and their exact solutions. The errors are infinitesimal decreasing in the exponential form. Finally, to better understand the dynamics of the oscillatory damped solution, we give a graphical analysis of the effect of the dissipation coefficient γ on it.
Can the European Parliament be a stepping stone into national politics? The gendered career paths of Maltese and Luxembourgish members of the European Parliament
Authors: Högenauer Anna-Lena
Published: December 2024

The representation of women in the European Parliament tends to be higher than in many national parliaments. Therefore, this article examines to what extent experience as a Member of the European Parliament could serve as a stepping stone into national politics. It focuses on Luxembourg and Malta as two typical cases of small states with preferential voting systems with an incumbency bias. It first identifies the challenges women face, then analyses how they affect the career paths of Members of the European Parliament. It argues that being a Member of the European Parliament does not resolve all cultural and institutional hurdles, but that it addresses the low visibility of women and the incumbency bias of the electoral systems in these two countries. However, reforms at the national level are unavoidable if the gender gap in national parliaments is to be resolved.
Becoming my daughter's mother: Attuning relationally
Authors: Anastasiou Thekla
Published: December 2024

In this paper I explore ideas such as mothering, caring, rules, and responsibilities towards a toddler, whilst methodologically, being influenced by a body of work around a feminist ethics of care. This piece attempts to understand how as a mother who is influenced by academic readings, I can support my child's independence and remain sensitive to her needs while setting some boundaries to keep her safe and prepared for the outside world. To do that, I have drawn on feminist New Materialist and posthuman non-anthropocentric ethics, where researchers continually challenge the assumption of boundaries, for example between agency and humans, ethics and politics, autonomy and dependence. Being entangled with my own ‘theoretical’ trajectory - readings, teachings and my own cultural values, beliefs; personal and professional identity and the practicalities and challenges of the lived experience with my daughter, in this research assemblage, the aim is to apply ideas from a feminist ethics of care to help me understand how to attune with my child more carefully in order to balance the notion of boundary-setting during sleep routines while respecting her need of autonomy.
Student perceptions of the use and effectiveness of engagement strategies in the online learning environment
Authors: Bali Tanisha , Mann Bhawan , Minosky Shayna A
Published: December 2024

Challenges in student engagement have been identified as a significant barrier in online learning. In this study, we used a mixed method design to explore how often, and how effectively, instructors used a variety of engagement strategies in their online classrooms. First, through the use of student focus groups with 30 students, we identified engagement strategies that students used and found effective. Our results indicated that breakout rooms and interactive activities/games and icebreakers were the most frequently mentioned engagement strategies for synchronous courses and using WhatsApp and discussion forums were mentioned for asynchronous courses. Next, a total of 284 undergraduate students (84% female) took part in an online survey consisting of 33 engagement strategies in which participants rated how often the strategy was used and how effective they found it. Descriptive analyses demonstrated that students most frequently used strategies centered on structure (i.e. grading rubrics, course orientations, and instructor/peer discussion forums that enable interactions). Students reported that the most effective strategies were those that focused on clarity (i.e. posting of due dates, grading rubrics, and regular emails from the instructor). Interestingly, while peer relations were predominantly discussed in the focus groups, peer-to-peer connection strategies in the survey received the lowest ratings, both in terms of how often they were used and how effective students found them. Overall, our results suggest that students consider clarity to be the most effective method for raising engagement and that instructor relations appear to be more beneficial than peer relations.
The Impact of Israel's 1995 National Health Insurance Law and Health Reforms on Nursing: A Historical Overview
Authors: Weiss Dorit
Published: December 2024

This article examines the trends and trajectories of the nursing profession and healthcare practices in Israel from a historical perspective, following the enactment of the 1995 National Insurance Health (NHI) Law, which entitled every Israeli resident to healthcare services. Since then, Israel's health funds have become more competitive and services to patients have improved. Nurses in Israel have taken on new roles in the healthcare system, including working with professional colleagues to develop efficient teamwork that serves patients’ needs. Nursing in Israel has also become increasingly academized, with all nursing training taking place in universities or academic colleges as of 2024. These changes mirror global trends in nursing and demand new thinking about the role of nurses, including how nursing can best serve patients and the wider healthcare system.
Bibliometric Analysis of Remote Working: 20-year Literature Review
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Priyadarshi Pushpendra , Garg Nishant
Published: December 2024

Remote Working has gained exponential popularity across the world, especially after COVID-19. Despite carrying important implications for individual and organizational functioning and the growing interest of the scientific community over the years, very few retrospective studies have been made to synthesize and understand the intellectual narrative of this field. This study delves into the dynamic landscape of remote working literature through bibliometric analysis. Utilizing the SCOPUS database, we examined 745 articles published in reputed journals in management, psychology, and social sciences from 2001 to 2023. The study followed descriptive analysis and science mapping techniques to uncover valuable insights for scholars by identifying the most seminal contributions and collaborative networks. The analysis revealed that effectiveness, work-life balance, adoption factors, and challenges associated with RW are the major themes within the research. These findings collectively contribute to RW’s holistic development and help develop a structural map of RW literature. Future research directions in the fields of academics and HRD are suggested.
Addressing Critical Gaps in Data Collection and Analysis in Atrocities Prevention Early Warning Systems
Authors: Palihapitiya Madhawa , Khan Saira , Ahmed Fakiha , Shenouda Benjamin , Nelson Erica
Published: December 2024

This qualitative study examines the workflows, challenges, and successes of third-generation conflict Early Warning Early Action (EWEA) systems for mass atrocity prevention. Through 26 semi-structured interviews with practitioners from 21 organizations across Africa, Middle East, and Southeast Asia, the research identifies three key gaps: data availability and quality, resource limitations, and data-to-action challenges. EWEA organizations employ diverse data collection methods, including remote messaging, field-based qualitative data collection, and media monitoring. However, data verification and analysis processes vary significantly, with most organizations relying on ad-hoc mixed methods. The study reveals a disconnect between academic research on conflict prediction and the practical application of EWEA systems. While academic studies utilize complex statistical models and machine learning techniques, community-based EWEA organizations often lack access to such advanced analytics. The findings underscore the need for increased collaboration between funders, academic institutions, technology developers, and EWEA organizations to enhance the effectiveness of atrocity prevention efforts.
Extending the Transformational Leadership-Innovative Work Behavior Relationship: Integrating Climate for Innovation and Dissimilarities in Dyad Relational Demography
Authors: Wijaya Nikodemus Hans Setiadi
Published: December 2024

This study assessed a multilevel mediation of transformational leadership, climate for innovation, and innovative work behavior (IWB). It employed relational demography variables, which included employee-supervisor sex, age, and tenure dissimilarities, as moderators. Employees and their direct supervisors from 37 organizations (service and manufacturing) were involved in the study. The analysis used 458 dyad samples. The SPSS Macro for assessing multilevel mediation (MLMed) and Hierarchical Linear Modeling (HLM) statistical tools were employed to examine the proposed hypotheses. A positive influence of transformational leadership on IWB was found. Climate for innovation mediated the relationship between transformational leadership and IWB. Age and tenure dissimilarities, along with climate for innovation, had positive joint effects on IWB. Sex dissimilarity and climate for innovation also had a positive, albeit weaker, joint effect on IWB. The study enriches the literature by (1) describing the mediating role of climate for innovation between transformational leadership and IWB and (2) disclosing the moderating roles of demographic dissimilarities between employees and supervisors in the relationship between climate for innovation and IWB. Research limitations and suggestions for future research are also addressed.
Early experience with the Aristotle Colossus 0.035’ macrowire for mechanical thrombectomy in 30 consecutive cases
Authors: Zarrin David A , Laghari Fahad J , Campos Jessica K , Meyer Benjamen M , Khan Muhammad W , Collard de Beaufort Jonathan , Amin Gizal , Beaty Narlin B , Bender Matthew T , Suzuki Shuichi , Colby Geoffrey P , Coon Alexander L
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Recent literature continues to demonstrate the successful role of large-bore aspiration catheters in thrombus ingestion during mechanical thrombectomy. However catheter-to-microwire step-off and distal navigation are ongoing challenges in thrombectomy. A new to market 0.035’ macrowire (Aristotle 35 Colossus Guidewire, Scientia Vascular, West Vale City, UT) may address such challenges. We report here our early experience in 30 mechanical thrombectomy cases.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed a prospectively maintained database of the senior authors to identify cases utilizing a 0.035’ macrowire with 0.035’ aspiration catheters for mechanical thrombectomy.

Results

Thirty consecutive cases were identified. Seventeen (57%) patients were female with an average age of 75.3 ± 2.2 years (range 55–97). Average presenting NIHSS was 13.0 ± 1.7. Thrombus locations included 7% ( n = 2) in the cervical ICA, 47% ( n = 14) in the M1, 43% ( n = 13) in the M2, and 3% ( n = 1) in the P1. An 088’ ID aspiration catheter was navigated to at least the M1 segment in all anterior circulation cases and the basilar in the posterior circulation case. The 0.035’ macrowire was placed proximal to the occlusion in all cases allowing coaxial 035’ and 071’ catheter aspiration passes. TICI 2C/3 was achieved in 87% of cases ( n = 26) and TICI 2B in the remaining cases. There were no wire-related perforations or vessel dissections.

Conclusion

The Colossus 0.035’ macrowire may offer advantages over its smaller counterparts by reducing ledge effect and the need to cross the thrombus. Further comparative studies against currently available microwires in various anatomies are warranted.
Stent retriever expansion as a corrective maneuver to optimize inadequately deployed flow diverter stents
Authors: Khanafer A , Almohammad M , von Gottberg P , Hajiyev K , Kemmling A , Forsting M , Henkes H
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

As flow diversion (FD) is becoming increasingly important in the endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms, the rate of technical complications is also increasing. Inadequate FD implantation may lead to both ischemic complications and decreased treatment efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of off-label stent retriever (SR) use in managing technical complications associated with FD implantation.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective analysis of data from patients who underwent FD treatment at two neuroradiology centers was performed. The objective was to identify cases in which the FD was inadequately deployed and SR expansion was performed as a corrective maneuver. The analysis included anatomic characteristics, technical information, angiographic and clinical outcomes, and complications.

Results

A total of 35 corrective maneuvers with SR were performed in 25 FD treatments. The corrective maneuvers in all treatments were successful, and no additional devices or therapies were required. No procedural complications or technical difficulties were documented.

Conclusion

With the growing role of FDs in neurointerventional treatment, familiarity with corrective maneuvers after technical complications or inadequate implantation is important. The findings in our selected cohort demonstrated that SR expansion is an effective and safe corrective maneuver for incompletely opened FDs.
“We cannot win this fight if we don’t acknowledge any such fight exists”: Examining media coverage of Black women’s risk for intimate partner violence
Authors: Craig Miltonette Olivia , Sailofsky Daniel
Published: December 2024

Research and policy continue to focus on the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV) in the U.S., with estimates indicating that 81 million people have been victimized by a partner in their lifetime. IPV disproportionately impacts women, and Black women in particular face victimization at a much higher rate when compared to other groups. Considering their overrepresentation, advocates have called for increased attention to IPV and its associated risks for Black women. As one of the most effective ways to publicize important health-related information is through the media, assessing coverage and framing is essential to understanding whether risks and resources are successfully communicated. The current study analyzes media attention to Black women’s elevated risk of victimization, and finds that while coverage is relatively minimal, media sources employ framing devices such as statistics, expert commentary, and single-victim focal points to discuss the issue. Three prominent themes emerged in content analysis of the media coverage, as news article language served to promote risk awareness, provide risk explanation, and/or address risk criticism.
Beyond the hernia in groin ultrasound
Authors: Vasudeva Karthik M , Thaker Siddharth , Gupta Harun
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Groin discomfort is one of the most common presenting complaints in health care and often requires ultrasound to detect hernias. However, such singular emphasis leads to over diagnosing hernia and other significant aetiologies in and around the groin are overlooked.

Topic description:

The article elaborates on the key areas a sonographer needs to focus on and presents a range of conditions responsible for groin pain other than hernia.

Discussion:

In addition to evaluating for hernia, a groin ultrasound should evaluate structures in the inguinal canal, the adductor muscles and symphyseal region, the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, the femoral neurovascular bundle, the hip joint with periarticular regions and the structures in the right iliac fossa.

Conclusion:

Sonographers must have a methodical approach, a good knowledge of normal anatomy and pathologies and a comprehensive understanding of the various types of groin abnormalities for a thorough examination.
Relevance of cardiac imaging in the evolving landscape of infective endocarditis management
Authors: Haouzi Alice , Khayata Mohamed , Xu Bo
Published: December 2024

Infective endocarditis (IE) is an increasingly recognized condition with high morbidity. Patients with atypical symptoms, culture-negative infections, and prosthetic cardiac devices and implants represent challenging populations to evaluate and manage. Recent major society guidelines have recommended the appropriate incorporation of multimodality imaging in the evaluation of these more complex IE cases. This article draws on the available literature regarding the different cardiac imaging modalities and discusses the role of multimodality imaging in IE.
Revision radiocapitellar arthroplasty by mismatched implant components – A salvage option: A report of two cases with a minimum three-year follow-up
Authors: Martinho Tiago , Caekebeke Pieter , Verstuyft Lotte , van Riet Roger
Published: December 2024

Radiocapitellar arthroplasty has been shown to improve pain and function in patients with a degenerative joint. Due to problems with the loosening of the radial head component, one of the few available systems was removed from the global market. This offered specific challenges in terms of treatment strategies when one or both components of a system that is no longer available fail. Due to the very different geometry of the capitellar implant, revision of the capitellar component would require a complex procedure, likely requiring bone graft and a high chance of early failure, leaving resection or interposition arthroplasty as the only available option. Although implant mismatch is common practice in hip and knee arthroplasty with satisfactory results, it should remain a salvage option as the off-label use of components gives rise to several medicolegal implications. We report two cases of radiocapitellar arthroplasty partial revision, by replacing only the radial head component with an implant from another system while keeping the well-fixed original capitellar component in place. At a minimum of three-year follow-up, both cases improved from poor to good and excellent Mayo elbow performance scores. There were no signs of implant failure on standard radiographs.
Does long-term surveillance of primary linked total elbow arthroplasty identify failing implants requiring revision?
Authors: Morris Daniel Leslie James , Minhas Avneet , Walstow Katherine , Pitt Lisa , Morgan Marie , Cresswell Tim , Espag Marius P , Clark David I , Tambe Amol A
Published: December 2024

Background

Scoping review has identified a lack of evidence guiding long-term follow-up of elbow arthroplasty. We report the effectiveness of primary linked total elbow arthroplasty surveillance in identifying failing implants requiring revision.

Methods

A prospective database recording consecutive primary linked total elbow arthroplasty and subsequent surveillance in an elbow unit was analysed. Arthroplasties performed between 01.10.2013 and 31.07.2022 were included, with a minimum 1-year follow-up. Surveillance involves specialist physiotherapist review 1, 2, 3, 5, 8 and 10 years postoperatively. Patient-initiated review could occur between time points. Outcome measures include a number of surveillance reviews offered and attended; and the proportion that identified a failing implant requiring revision.

Results

Ninety-seven primary linked total elbow arthroplasties with minimum 1-year follow-up were performed (76 Discovery, 14 Nexel, 7 Coonrad/Morrey). Sixteen patients died prior to 31.07.2023, and three implants required revision <1 year postoperatively. 290 of 328 offered surveillance appointments were attended (88.4%). Five implants required revision ≥1 year post-operatively, with revision requirements identified by surveillance in all cases. Three failures occurred at 5 years postoperatively, and two failures occurred at 8 years postoperatively. Overall, 1.7% attended surveillance appointments identified a failing implant requiring revision.

Discussion

This is the first series reporting the effectiveness of primary linked total elbow arthroplasty surveillance in identifying implants requiring revision.
Exploring the key factors affecting indoor thermal comfort through virtual reality: Enhancing labor productivity and achieving energy efficiency
Authors: Vittori Filippo , Fronzetti Colladon Andrea , Chiatti Chiara , Pigliautile Ilaria , Pisello Anna Laura
Published: December 2024

Indoor thermal comfort is a crucial factor for occupant productivity and energy-related behavior in workspaces. Recent studies have shown that non-thermal factors, such as interior design elements, can also affect human thermal perception. A novel experimental methodology is introduced to identify these factors, consisting of two steps: (i) representing an office environment using Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Virtual Reality (VR) tools and (ii) evaluating users’ perceptions in the reproduced virtual environment. Indeed, VR enables the creation of fully customizable and immersive scenarios, allowing individuals to experience lifelike sensations and provide real-time feedback on their comfort level. One hundred subjects were interviewed about their comfort and productivity perception in 12 different VR scenes with specific design parameters. Results show that natural lighting and windows with tall and narrow proportions improve occupants’ thermal comfort and perceived productivity. Multilevel regression analysis shows that these predictors have a bigger impact on productivity than on thermal sensation. Implementing this methodology in the early-stage design of workspaces may lead to effective strategies for increasing employee satisfaction and productivity. Additionally, retrofitting buildings based on occupants’ thermal perceptions can optimize energy use by reducing the demand on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This approach allows for reduced runtimes without compromising occupant comfort.
Management of the supposed elbow dislocation in newborns
Authors: Kruse Florian , Dizin Frederique , Ilharreborde Brice , Jehanno Pascal , Simon Anne-Laure , Mas Virginie
Published: December 2024

Background:

The newborn transphyseal fracture of the distal humerus is frequently misdiagnosed with an elbow dislocation due to the absence of the lateral condyle ossification node. No consensus has been reported either for the diagnosis or the management of these rare fractures. This study aimed to analyze a series of newborns with transphyseal distal humerus fractures.

Methods:

All consecutive infants treated between 2005 and 2020 for a transphyseal fracture of the distal humerus before the age of 6 months were retrospectively included. All radiological examinations were analyzed (X-ray, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) as well as the therapeutic management (orthopedic or surgical treatment). The patients were seen at outpatient clinic visits with a minimum of 2-year follow-up.

Results:

Nine newborns were treated. The main cause was an obstetrical traumatism ( n = 8). The diagnosis was made on physical examination and addressed by obstetric departments with standard biplanar radiographs in four cases. The fracture was suspected on physical examination in the remaining five cases and confirmed by complementary imaging (ultrasound (2), MRI (1), and both (3)). A total of six patients were treated conservatively and three surgically with an open reduction. At a mean follow-up of 79 months, two complications occurred: one axillary abscess due to the cast and one cubitus varus deformity. All children had a full functional recovery.

Conclusions:

The transphyseal fracture of the distal humerus in newborns is a rare entity that should be managed conservatively. Additional imaging examinations are recommended to clarify the diagnosis.

Level of evidence:

Level IV, cohort study.
Lack of evidence for kynurenine pathway dysfunction in Huntington's disease: Cerebrospinal fluid and plasma analyses from the HDClarity study
Authors: Khetarpal Vinod , Herbst Todd , Dominguez Celia , Munoz-Sanjuan Ignacio , Sampaio Cristina , Marks Bryan , Miller Dennis L , Farnham James , Ledvina Aaron , Anglehart Hannah , Rehmani Imran , LaFayette Amber , Spridco Natasha , Langbehn Douglas , Wild Edward J , Pacifici Robert
Published: December 2024

Background

Evidence from animal studies and post-mortem studies of brains from people with Huntington's disease (PwHD) has suggested that the kynurenine pathway (KP) may be dysregulated in Huntington's disease (HD).

Objective

To determine whether there are differences in KP metabolites in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma of PwHD vs. healthy controls enrolled in the HDClarity study.

Methods

CSF and plasma samples from 141 PwHD with mild and moderate manifest disease and 75 healthy controls were analyzed for 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-OH-KYN), quinolinic acid, kynurenine, anthranilic acid, kynurenic acid, and tryptophan concentrations using validated high-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry methods. The primary and secondary endpoints compared metabolite concentrations between groups, and an exploratory analysis (PwHD only) evaluated the association between the metabolite levels and severity of disease.

Results

No significant differences in CSF or plasma concentrations of any of the six KP metabolites were observed between PwHD and controls, and there were no strong associations between the concentration of any KP metabolite and disease severity. A principal component analysis of the combined CSF and plasma measures showed a substantial positive correlation among all metabolites except for tryptophan in plasma.

Conclusions

We found no evidence to support the hypothesis of dysregulation of KP metabolites in HD based on CSF and plasma metabolite levels. The monitoring of KP metabolites in CSF or plasma is unlikely to serve as a pharmacodynamic biomarker for disease progression or therapeutic intervention in HD.
Concealed Homicide in a Sexually Abused Child
Authors: Patlakwe Thato M. , Saniotis Arthur , Mvula Nale
Published: December 2024

Sexual child homicide is a very high impact event. We report an instance where an 11-year-old boy was noticed by his grandmother hanging from the silver wired drying line which they are using for hanging the clothes in the house. Examination of the crime scene, autopsy findings, toxicological and DNA analysis confirmed the manner of death as sexual child homicide in a chronically abused child. A 28-year-old male perpetrator confessed to raping and murdering the boy, with DNA evidence and the perpetrator's confession providing strong legal proof. This case underscores the importance of post-mortem examinations in determining the exact manner of death and calling for vigilance in cases of suspected abuse.
Glabridin Suppresses LPS-Induced Inflammatory Cascade by Targeting AMPK/JAK2/STAT3 Pathways in Macrophages
Authors: Hou Shaw-Min , Cheng Ssu-Wei , Lin Kao-Chang , Yen Ting-Lin , Hsia Chih-Wei , Huang Wei-Chieh , Sheu Joen-Rong , Hsia Chih-Hsuan
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Inflammation, a crucial biological response defending the body against harmful stimuli, has been a central focus in medicinal research. Licorice root, rich in bioactive compounds, contains glabridin (GBD), a renowned natural flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Despite its recognition, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying GBD's anti-inflammatory effects remain a subject of ongoing investigation. Methods: This study explores the impact of GBD on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in RAW264.7 macrophages, aiming to unravel intricate molecular pathways, specifically focusing on the potential involvement of the adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathways. The study first determined the effective dose of GBD by measuring its impact on the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in response to LPS stimulation. The novelty of this study lies in subsequent examination of GBD's effects under LPS-induced inflammation, an aspect that has not been thoroughly explored in previous research. Results: GBD inhibits the production of LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO). It also suppresses the expression of iNOS and IL-1β induced by LPS. Furthermore, GBD attenuates LPS-induced phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3, concurrently inhibiting AMPK phosphorylation. The study further elucidates the relationship between AMPK and JAK2/STAT3 using JAK2 inhibitor, AG490, and AMPK inhibitor, compound C (CC). Importantly, CC not only inhibits the expression of AMPK but also suppresses the expression of JAK2 and STAT3. This observation strongly suggests that GBD modulates the AMPK/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathways in LPS-stimulated macrophages. Conclusion: This study reveals that GBD is a promising anti-inflammatory agent with novel inhibitory effects on the AMPK/JAK2/STAT3 pathway, highlighting its potential therapeutic value for inflammatory diseases.
The Application of Augmented Reality in Simulation-Based Design Evaluations of Trauma Rooms
Authors: Estejab Hamid , Bayramzadeh Sara
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examined the augmented reality (AR) application in design evaluations through an immersive experience of medical task simulations in combination with a full-scale physical mock-up of a trauma room.

Background

Augmented reality technology is emerging in various fields including architectural design. Traditionally, building physical mock-ups has been the most effective tool to involve end-users in design evaluations. However, AR can eliminate cost- and labor-intensive components of a physical mock-up by replacing them with holograms.

Methods

Two simulation sessions with emergency department clinicians were conducted using AR. The research team collected user feedback through simulations and interviews. Clinicians’ feedback was systematically categorized and summarized according to various design elements.

Result

The integration of mock-up and AR simulations enabled the evaluation of design elements that were previously unattainable. Examples include simulating color-coded floor boundaries and adjusting door widths, which enhanced clinicians’ immersion and involvement in design changes. Interviews and analyses of video recordings captured from the clinicians’ perspectives supported the design evaluations during simulations.

Conclusions

Augmented reality has great potential to be used widely in the evaluation of healthcare environment design. Augmented reality is an innovative approach that can benefit end-users in interacting with a mix of real spaces and virtual components. It also introduces new ways of data collection and analysis to architectural design evaluation methods.
Overview of perianeurysmal edema following the endovascular management of cerebral aneurysms: A pooled analysis of 48 cases
Authors: Azab Mohammed A , Mostafa Hamid Abdelma’aboud , Attalah Oday
Published: December 2024

Background

Perianeurysmal edema occurring after endovascular treatment for cerebral aneurysms is uncommon compared to surgical clipping. The clinical aspects and the exact explanation are poorly understood.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. We used the following keywords: “endovascular management of cerebral aneurysms,” “perianeurysmal cerebral edema,” “perianeurysmal cerebral edema after endovascular treatment endovascular treatment,” “intracranial aneurysms with perianeurysmal edema,” and “vessel wall enhancement after endovascular therapy.” For each case, demographic, clinicopathological, therapeutic, and follow-up data were gathered and analyzed.

Results

Perianeurysmal edema after endovascular treatment has a clear female predilection, with a male: female ratio of 12:29 (25%; 60.41%). The average time from EVT to the onset of edema ranged from 1 day to about 8 years. The aneurysm dimension ranged from 6.8 to 25 mm as the largest size reported. Most patients were asymptomatic (18 [37.5 %]), and headache was the presenting symptom in 10 patients (20.8%). Aneurysmal wall enhancement was reported in 16 (33.3 %) patients with perianeurysmal edema. About 12 patients (25%) developed post-EVT hydrocephalus. The most common coil used was the platinum type (31 [64.58%]). Most of the patients were treated expectantly with follow-up (17 [35.41 %]), while steroids were used only in 14 (29.16%) patients. Most of the patients have their edema resolved (29 [60.41%]) or stable (9 [37.5%]).

Conclusion

There is growing evidence supporting the incidence of post-embolization inflammatory reactions involving the vessel wall and the surrounding parenchyma; however, the exact clinical perspectives and the predisposing factors are not fully uncovered. This analysis highlights the possible presentations and short-term outcome of patients presenting with perianeurysmal edema after endovascular management of cerebral aneurysms.
Adherence to the Mediterranean diet in 5 Mediterranean countries: A descriptive analysis of the DELICIOUS project
Authors: Rosi Alice , Scazzina Francesca , Giampieri Francesca , Abdelkarim Osama , Aly Mohamed , Pons Juancho , Vázquez-Araújo Laura , Frias-Toral Evelyn , Cano Sandra Sumalla , Elío Iñaki , Di Giorgio Jason , Mata Ana , Pardo María Isabel , Busó Pablo , Grosso Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Background: The Mediterranean diet is considered a healthy dietary pattern associated with substantial health benefits. While its application at global level is rather difficult due to the intricate features eradicated into the cultural heritage of populations living in countries facing the Mediterranean basin, its preservation in such areas is considered crucial to maintain a good health status of current and future generations. Objective: To assess the level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet in children and adolescents living in 5 Mediterranean countries participating in the DELICIOUS project. Methods: An online survey was conducted involving 2011 parents of children and adolescents from Spain, Italy, Lebanon, Egypt, and Portugal. The KIDMED score applied to 24-h recalls of their children's diets was used to assess the level of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and cross-references with background and lifestyle variables. Results: Children and adolescents living in Lebanon and Portugal are more adherent than their counterparts in other countries. Some specific aspects related to the Mediterranean diet were rather common, such as olive oil consumption, daily fruit and vegetable intake, as well as lifestyle habits including having breakfast and limited sweets. Others, including having a second portion of fruit and vegetable, adequate consumption of fish, nuts, and cereals (for breakfast), as well as frequent consumption of fast foods underscored substantial abandonment of certain other Mediterranean diet features. Older adolescents with inadequate sleep duration, longer screen time, and low physical activity levels, as well as children of older parents with lower educational level, lower family income, and living in rural areas had significantly lower KIDMED scores. Conclusions: This study provides important information on the current status of adherence to the Mediterranean among children and adolescents in the Mediterranean region and may help setting specific targets for nutrition interventions aiming at its promotion.
Reading level, acuity, and speed evaluation among retinoblastoma survivors: A prospective case series
Authors: Barnett Sarah , Malone Sara , Strelnikov Jacob , L’Hotta Allison J , Zabotka Luke , Lueder Gregg , King Allison A , Hayashi Robert J , Willis Daniel N , Reynolds Margaret
Published: December 2024

Pediatric retinoblastoma survivors exhibit visual deficits. How these visual deficits impact reading skills is unknown. The purpose of this study is to assess reading level, reading acuity, and reading speed among retinoblastoma survivors. Parents of English-speaking retinoblastoma survivors between ages of 8 and 17 consented/assented to participate. Children completed MNRead for reading speed and reading acuity. The Gray Oral Reading Test-Fifth Edition (GORT) was administered to assess reading rate, accuracy, fluency, and comprehension. Five children participated in the study. Two out of five participants fell within the “Below Average” range on the GORT while 3/5 were “Average”. One participant with below average performance ranked below average in all four subtests, while the other participant was below average in accuracy and comprehension only. On the MNRead, all five participants had slower maximum reading speeds and worse reading acuity than the baseline measure for their age. Four out of five participants had a higher (i,e., worse) CPS than their expected baseline measure, suggesting that these individuals may require larger print or higher magnification than their peers to achieve effortless reading. These findings suggest that retinoblastoma survivors may experience reading difficulties. Characterizing the reading challenges in retinoblastoma survivors will be critical in advancing interventions to optimize educational attainment in this population.
A comprehensive review of AI-powered skincare product recommendation systems: From data collection to user experience
Authors: Ramrakhiani Nikita , Kalbande Dhananjay
Published: December 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly infiltrating the field of medicine, particularly in the area of assisted diagnosis. Traditional AI models, limited to single data types, struggle to accurately diagnose skin conditions. Incorporating diverse data sources, such as patient narratives, lab. results, and various skin images, can significantly improve diagnostic capabilities. Large-scale multimodal models, trained on extensive clinical data, can effectively integrate diverse data types to improve diagnostic accuracy. This paper investigates the methodologies, applications, and limitations of unimodal models, while also exploring how multimodal models can amplify precision and reliability. Moreover, amalgamating advanced technologies such as Federated learning and multi-party privacy computing, when integrated with AI, can significantly alleviate privacy risks associated with dermatological data while enabling highly accurate self-diagnosis. Diagnostic systems supported by large-scale pre-trained multimodal models can aid dermatologists in formulating effective diagnostic and treatment roadmaps, ushering in a new frontier in healthcare. Machine learning can transform dermatology by enabling more accurate diagnoses and customized treatment plans. The convergence of vast datasets, including electronic health records, image repositories, and genomic data, coupled with accelerated computing power and affordable storage, has fueled the evolution of sophisticated Machine Learning algorithms capable of replicating acumen resembling dermatological diagnosis and treatment. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of machine learning, encompassing its foundational principles, current applications in dermatology, and potential challenges that may hinder its further development.