bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction effect between data discretization and data resampling for class-imbalanced medical datasets
Authors: Huang Min-Wei , Tsai Chih-Fong , Lin Wei-Chao , Lin Jia-Yang
Published: December 2024

Background

Data discretization is an important preprocessing step in data mining for the transfer of continuous feature values to discrete ones, which allows some specific data mining algorithms to construct more effective models and facilitates the data mining process. Because many medical domain datasets are class imbalanced, data resampling methods, including oversampling, undersampling, and hybrid sampling methods, have been widely applied to rebalance the training set, facilitating effective differentiation between majority and minority classes.

Objective

Herein, we examine the effect of incorporating both data discretization and data resampling as steps in the analytical process on the classifier performance for class-imbalanced medical datasets. The order in which these two steps are carried out is compared in the experiments.

Methods

Two experimental studies were conducted, one based on 11 two-class imbalanced medical datasets and the other using 3 multiclass imbalanced medical datasets. In addition, the two discretization algorithms employed are ChiMerge and minimum description length principle (MDLP). On the other hand, the data resampling algorithms chosen for performance comparison are Tomek links undersampling, synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) oversampling, and SMOTE–Tomek hybrid sampling algorithms. Moreover, the support vector machine (SVM), C4.5 decision tree, and random forest (RF) techniques were used to examine the classification performances of the different approaches.

Results

The results show that on average, the combination approaches can allow the classifiers to provide higher area under the ROC curve (AUC) rates than the best baseline approach at approximately 0.8%–3.5% and 0.9%–2.5% for twoclass and multiclass imbalanced medical datasets, respectively. Particularly, the optimal results for two-class imbalanced datasets are obtained by performing the MDLP method first for data discretization and SMOTE second for oversampling, providing the highest AUC rate and requiring the least computational cost. For multiclass imbalanced datasets, performing SMOTE or SMOTE–Tomek first for data resampling and ChiMerge second for data discretization offers the best performances.

Conclusions

Classifiers with oversampling can provide better performances than the baseline method without oversampling. In contrast, performing data discretization does not necessarily make the classifiers outperform the baselines. On average, the combination approaches have potential to allow the classifiers to provide higher AUC rates than the best baseline approach.
MRI manifestations and quantitative parameters of fat pad PDW-SPAIR in patients with knee osteoarthritis and their predictive value
Authors: He Yanan , Huang Yaoqu , Chen Chuying , Yi Lilei , Zhou Shouguo , Wang Juan
Published: December 2024

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and underlying bone, often leading to pain and stiffness. There is limited research on the correlation between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) manifestations and changes in quantitative parameters of the proton density-weighted spectral attenuated inversion recovery (PDW-SPAIR) sequence in the fat pad of KOA patients.

Objective

To investigate the MRI manifestations and quantitative parameters of fat pad PDW-SPAIR in patients with KOA and their predictive value.

Methods

82 patients with KOA admitted to the hospital from January 2023 to January 2024 were selected as the study subjects. All of them received an MRI examination before the operation. Their MRI manifestations and quantitative parameters of fat pad PDW-SPAIR were analyzed to evaluate their application value in patients with KOA.

Results

Among the 82 patients, there were 25 cases of bony defects, 43 cases of cartilage defects, and 14 cases of hydrops articuli. There were 63 cases of bone marrow edema, 54 cases of soft tissue swelling, 68 cases of synovitis, and 42 cases of bone erosion. Different quantitative parameters of fat pad PDW-SPAIR showed that patients with cartilage defects were 50, 53, 32, and 32. Cartilage defects were 130, 131, 53, and 49. There were statistically significant differences in signal intensity ratios of non-cartilage and cartilage defects displayed by different quantitative parameters of fat pad PDW-SPAIR (p < 0.05). Spearman correlation analysis showed that PD-FSE-SAG-SPAIR, PD-FSE-COR-SPAIR, T2-FSE-SAG, and T1-FSE-COR positively correlated with KOA (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

MRI manifestations and quantitative parameters of fat pad PDW-SPAIR may be helpful for the clinical prediction of KOA.
Diagnostic value of colour Doppler ultrasound, serum β-hCG concentration, and progesterone concentration in ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Li Wanyan , Liu Zhike , Ma Yiqin , Zhao Tingting , Liu Yanyan , Qin Leilei , Yue Yuzhen , Chu Xiaofei , Duan Yayang
Published: December 2024

Background

The rising incidence of ectopic pregnancy (EP) in China underscores the critical need for early and accurate diagnosis to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Colour Doppler ultrasound, β-hCG, and progesterone testing are essential tools in the detection of EP, with transvaginal ultrasound offering precise visualization of EP lesions. Lower levels of β-hCG and progesterone in EP cases compared to normal pregnancies serve as key diagnostic markers. Awareness of atypical symptoms is crucial to prevent missed or misdiagnosed cases, underscoring the importance of timely intervention to mitigate severe complications.

Objective

To investigate the differences in colour Doppler ultrasound findings, serum β-hCG levels, and progesterone levels between normal and ectopic pregnancies, in order to provide insights into the clinical diagnosis and treatment of EP.

Methods

Sixty patients who showed no gestational sac in the uterus during early pregnancy and were either highly suspected or pathologically confirmed to have EP were selected for this study. As controls, fifty women with normal pregnancies during the same period were also included. Colour Doppler ultrasound findings (endometrial thickness, pelvic effusion, uterine effusion, and adnexal mass), serum β-hCG levels, and progesterone levels were recorded and compared between the two groups.

Results

Colour Doppler ultrasound showed that the EP group had significantly greater incidences of pelvic effusion, uterine effusion, and an adnexal mass than did the control group. Moreover, the EP patients had significantly thinner endometria (8.3 ± 3.37 mm vs. 16.12 ± 3.09 mm; P < 0.05), lower serum β-hCG levels (846.18-1444.09 vs. 2429.24–3020.56; P < 0.05), and lower progesterone levels (9.1 ± 7.19 vs. 17.66 ± 5.63; P < 0.05) than did the controls. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that endometrial thickness, serum β-hCG concentration, and progesterone concentration had considerably high area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity for the diagnosis of EP.

Conclusion

Colour Doppler ultrasound, serum β-hCG concentration, and progesterone concentration have high diagnostic value for EP.
Students’ and teachers’ perceptions of social entrepreneurship literacy: A case study in an Indonesian vocational boarding school
Authors: Sujatmiko Hardo , Raharjo Tri Joko , Fakhruddin Fakhruddin , Suminar Tri
Published: December 2024

Although social entrepreneurship has been well-researched, little empirical evidence reports on social entrepreneurship literacy. To fill this gap, the present case study aims to explore students’ and teachers’ perceptions of social entrepreneurship literacy in a vocational boarding school. Data were collected through a questionnaire and focus group interviews and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis with reference to Peredo and McLean’s dimensions: goals, opportunities, innovation, risks, and human resources. The findings show that both students and teachers reported that the five dimensions of social entrepreneurship literacy can strengthen social awareness and values among students and teachers. The contribution of this research is to provide empirical evidence on the role of students’ and teachers' beliefs and attitudes towards social entrepreneurship literacy in relation to their entrepreneurial intentions and practices.
Investigating the bacterial cleaning performance on Zr-BMG with LIPSS after ultrasonic vibration assisted cleaning
Authors: Li Songlin , Mo Kekang , Du Cezhi
Published: December 2024

High-efficiency and high-quality sterilization technologies for medical materials can significantly reduce iatrogenic infection. This study investigates the synergistic effects of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) and ultrasonic cleaning on the removal of bacteria from medical material surfaces. We specifically examined how ultrasonic parameters and structural defects in LIPSS impact the effectiveness of bacterial removal. As an emerging medical metal, Zr-BMG was chosen for the target material. Femtosecond laser processing was employed to create LIPSS with both complete linear arrays and discontinuous linear arrays structures featuring surface defects by adjusting the scanning overlap rate. A high-concentration solution of S. aureus was used for co-cultivation, resulting in a surface bacterial coverage rate exceeding 95%. The study analyzed the synergistic sterilization effect of microstructured surfaces through variations in ultrasonic cleaning power and duration. The results indicated that surfaces with microstructures demonstrated significantly improved bacterial removal following ultrasonic cleaning. The bacterial removal rate was found to be proportional to the ultrasonic vibrator power, and the surface with a LIPSS structure outperformed the discontinuous LIPSS surface in bacterial removal efficiency. Optimal results were achieved with the LIPSS surface after 30 min of cleaning at 100 W ultrasonic power. However, there was minimal difference in bacterial removal between 10 and 30 min at the same power level. This study aims to provide methodological insights and data support for the efficient and high-quality cleaning of medical metal surfaces.
Fintech Innovation, Financial Performance and Stability: A Systematic Literature Review and Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Goyal Nihanshi , Bajaj Parminder Kaur , Saxena Deepika
Published: December 2024

The financial services industry is experiencing a paradigm shift due to the proliferation of fintech advancements. These innovations span sectors such as mobile payments, blockchain technology and robo-advisors and promise to enhance efficiency, accessibility and financial inclusion. This study investigates the impact of fintech innovation on financial performance and stability. It uses a combined approach of systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analysis. This study aims to (a) determine the state of the art of the impact of fintech innovation on financial performance and stability, (b) identify gaps in the research and (c) identify challenges and trends for future research potential. This analysis provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners and policymakers. It sheds light on the current knowledge base, highlights emerging research areas and emphasizes the need for further investigation into the complex relationship between Fintech innovation, financial performance and stability.
Exploring the Role of Spirituality and Environmental Concern on Millet Purchase Intention
Authors: Gupta Kriti Bardhan , Bhardwaj Avinash
Published: December 2024

The present study explores the impact of spirituality and environmental concerns on the purchase intention of Indian consumers through an extended version of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). Based on the data collected from 448 people, Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) is used to develop and test the proposed model. The present study confirms the positive impact of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behaviour control on the purchase intention of millet products. The study also confirms the importance of spirituality and environmental concerns on the intention to purchase millet products. Since millet is a nutrient-dense and climate-resilient crop, the findings advocate for the government and business organizations to promote millet products on these dimensions. With the increased awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability and spirituality, the present study provides a new dimension of research and managerial action.
Stakeholder Perspectives on Retention Strategies for Rehabilitation Professionals: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mak Susanne , Hunt Matthew , Razack Saleem , Root Kelly , Thomas Aliki
Published: December 2024

There is a scarcity of health human resources worldwide. In occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and speech-language pathology (S-LP), attrition and retention issues amplify this situation and contribute to the precarity of health systems. Therefore, we aimed to investigate retention strategies for rehabilitation professionals in Quebec. We present an analysis from individual interviews with rehabilitation professionals and focus groups with stakeholders. We used purposeful sampling (maximum variation approach) to recruit participants from Quebec, Canada. We conducted interviews with 51 OTs, PTs, and S-LPs (2019–2020) and four focus groups with managers, professional education programs, professional associations, and regulatory bodies (2022). Cultural-historical activity theory provided the theoretical scaffolding for these interpretive description studies. Inductive and deductive approaches and constant comparative techniques were used for data analysis. Five sets of retention strategies were developed: (1) ensuring that work aligns with values; (2) improving alignment of work parameters with needs and interests of rehabilitation professionals; (3) modifying physical, social, cultural, and structural aspects of a workplace; (4) addressing how the profession is governed; and (5) offering informal and formal benefits. Multi-systemic retention strategies with intersectoral partnerships were deemed essential to effectively change rehabilitation professionals’ work and work environments and to increase public awareness of the added value of rehabilitation professionals. Our findings emphasize a critical need to design targeted, multi-systemic retention strategies to influence the work experiences of rehabilitation professionals and to ensure the availability of OTs, PTs, and S-LPs for present and future rehabilitation needs.
Stability and dynamic behavior of in-plane transporting plates under internal resonance and two-frequency parametric excitation
Authors: Zhang Yi , Xu Chuntian , Sun Xuemei , Shi Jianhui , Song Yuanmei , Zhang Dengbo
Published: December 2024

The dynamic stability of in-plane transporting viscoelastic plates based on 1:3 internal resonance and two-frequency parametric excitation is investigated for the first time in this paper. Unnormal and peculiar phenomena of stability boundaries occur in 1:3 internal resonance and two-frequency parametric excitation. The governing equations and related inhomogeneous boundary conditions are obtained by the Newton’s second law. The tension of axial variation is emphasized. The solvability conditions in principal parametric resonances are obtained by direct method of multiple scales. Based on the Routh–Hurwitz criterion, stability boundary conditions are derived. Numerical examples are presented to depict the influence of system parameters on the stability boundaries, such as, viscoelastic coefficients, viscous damping, and axial speed fluctuation amplitudes. In addition, the effects of internal resonance and inhomogeneous boundary conditions on the stability boundaries are compared. The approximation results show very interesting and exotic phenomena of unstable boundaries. Under 1:3 internal resonance and two-frequency parametric excitation, irregular instability boundary appears, and the instability boundary forms a fractured instability region, within which no stability region exists in the system. At the end of the paper, the accuracy of the numerical solution is verified by differential quadrature method.
Perioperative anaphylaxis associated with peripheral inserted central catheter: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Wu Zhenming , Luo Mengna , Luo Jielin , Feng Yandan , Li Jia
Published: December 2024

Background:

Peripheral Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) is a commonly utilized medical device for long-term intravenous therapy in healthcare settings. However, there has been a notable increase in anaphylaxis associated with PICC catheterization, which should not be neglected.

Aims:

The purpose is to raise awareness about the occurrence of anaphylaxis or anaphylactoid reactions associated with PICC and to emphasize the need to explore effective methods to prevent this emergency event in the future.

Method:

This retrospective observational study was conducted at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center between January 2021 and August 2023.

Results:

0.10% (13 out of 12,612) of cancer patients suffered from anaphylactic reactions during PICC catheterization. The duration time of anaphylaxis or anaphylactoid reactions was approximately 8 min, with a range of 5–10 min. The signs and symptoms combined with respiratory and cardiovascular system symptoms. Most patients were relieved spontaneously by oxygen inhalation and completed catheterization after their symptoms were alleviated.

Conclusion:

The increasing incidence of anaphylaxis related to PICC catheterization necessitates greater awareness among healthcare providers. Further research is needed to identify the exact culprits during PICC insertion and develop effective strategies for preventing anaphylactic reactions.
Transabdominal sac puncture: A straightforward access to an excluded iliac artery aneurysm
Authors: Amato Gaetano Valerio Davide , Biondetti Pierpaolo , Cacioppa Laura Maria , Torcia PierLuca , Carrafiello Gianpaolo
Published: December 2024

Iliac artery aneurysms (IAA) associated with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are found in 10%–20% of AAAs. Isolated internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIAAs) are an uncommon entity, representing 0.3%–0.5% of all intra-abdominal aneurysms, incidentally discovered or late diagnosed with frank rupture. Despite the high mortality, shared and standardized guidelines on treatment management of IIAAs are currently lacking. We report the case of an 82-year-old male diagnosed and managed in our institution for a left internal iliac artery aneurysm excluded after aorto-bisiliac prosthesis surgery. After an initial endovascular attempt, the procedure was converted to a direct transabdominal puncture approach. Post-procedural evaluation demonstrated a clinical success without evidence of aneurismal sac filling and stable aneurysmal sac volume. The viability of transabdominal sac puncture, especially in cases with complex anatomy or when traditional access methods are inadequate, represents a promising alternative, particularly in poor candidates to conventional iliac surgery.
Evaluation of In-Hospital and Community-Based Healthcare Utilization and Costs During the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic in Alberta, Canada: A Population-Based Descriptive Study
Authors: Liu Kathy , Rennert-May Elissa , Zhang Zuying , D’Souza Adam G , Crocker Alysha , Williamson Tyler , Beall Reed , Leal Jenine
Published: December 2024

Background:

Assessing the financial burden of COVID-19 is important for planning health services and resource allocation to inform future pandemic response.

Objectives:

This study examines the changing dynamics in healthcare utilization patterns and costs from a public healthcare perspective during the COVID-19 pandemic in Alberta, Canada.

Design:

Population-based descriptive study.

Methods:

All adult patients over the age of 18 years who had a laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis in Alberta, Canada from March 1, 2020 to December 15, 2021. We described demographic information and community- and hospital-based healthcare utilization and costs. We compared changes in each outcome throughout the first four waves of the pandemic.

Results:

Among 255,037 patients, hospitalization incurred significantly higher costs ( N = 20,603; aRR = 755.51; marginal cost: $21,738.17 CAD; P < .01). Wave 2 recorded the highest cost for Emergency Department (ED) visits (aRR = 1.10; marginal cost: $79.19 CAD; P < .01). Compared to Wave 1, Waves 2-4 all recorded significantly lower costs for out-patient visits. Wave 2’s in-patient cost for patients that required ICU admission was significantly lower than Wave 1 (aRR = 0.75; marginal cost: −$24,142.47 CAD; P = .02).

Conclusion:

COVID-19 exerted a heavy toll on healthcare services, and the dynamics of this continue to evolve. Utilization of ED and in-patient services were particularly high. Severe infections requiring hospitalization and ICU admission are more expensive than non-hospitalized and non-ICU hospital admits. Future studies should clarify specific factors, such as sociodemographic determinants, that contribute to evolving patterns of health services consumption and changing trends in cost to holistically inform responses to future pandemics.
The role of networks in shaping entrepreneurial leadership: A longitudinal case study
Authors: Gil-López Águeda , Iszatt-White Marian , San Román López Elena
Published: December 2024

This article explores the relationship between leadership and networks in entrepreneurial firms. A longitudinal perspective is adopted to consider how leadership evolves and develops over time in an entrepreneurial setting, based on how leaders draw on networks in which they are embedded. Findings from a qualitative study of an organization operating for over 70 years and including over 50 business-owning families are presented. These show that networks not only shape and define the leadership of the entrepreneurial firm, but also that the firm’s evolution, growth and development are the result of how networks entwine with leadership. These findings are theorized in the form of an entrepreneurial evolution model that is driven by the form and reach of embedded network connections and draws on leader-member Exchange theory. The article concludes with some thoughts on the benefits of networks for practicing leaders.
Looking forwards and backwards: The continuing influence of COVID-19 on the practices of physical education teachers
Authors: Cruickshank Vaughan , Mainsbridge Casey , Williams John , Dunning Michael , Richards Kevin Andrew
Published: December 2024

This study examined how physical education (PE) teachers in one Australian state approached and implemented their practice following the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 14 primary and high school PE specialist teachers who participated in our previous COVID-19-focused studies to understand the changes that occurred in their practice over time. Analysing teachers’ experiences as part of the figurations they form with others resulted in the identification of key themes that reflected their perceptions of the ongoing influence of COVID-19 on their practices as PE teachers. These themes relate to blind or unplanned social processes ( Elias, [1987] 2007a ) that contributed to unintended consequences ( Elias, 2009a ) of the teachers’ actions. They were focused on levels of student engagement, equity, planning, online resources, assessment and well-being. The results showed that while there were ongoing issues related to varied student engagement and home environments, participants perceived that the forced move to online learning had what we considered to be unintended consequences for the PE profession and, specifically, PE teachers. These unintended consequences were focused on planning, online resources, assessment and well-being.
Evaluation of sluggish cognitive tempo in children and adolescents with obesity and morbid obesity
Authors: Yolcu Ömer , Bedel Aynur , Gizli Çoban Özge , Yazıcı Kopuz Hilal , Önder Arif , Sürer Adanır Aslı , Akdağ Berhan , Nasıroğlu Serhat , Ünver Tuhan Hale , Parlak Mesut
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study’s primary aim is to evaluate the relationship between obesity and sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT).

Method

The study group consisted of obese ( n = 37) and morbidly obese ( n = 42) patients. The healthy control group included 38 children and adolescents. SCT was evaluated using the Barkley Child Attention Scale (BCAS). Clinical interviews were supplemented with standardized questionnaires to assess symptoms of depression, anxiety, and ADHD.

Results

BCAS scores were significantly higher in both the morbidly obese and obese groups than in the control group ( p < .001). BCAS cutoff point showed that the prevalence of SCT was significantly higher in both the obese and morbidly obese groups compared to the control group ( p < .001). Moreover, a logistic regression analysis identified screen time (OR = 1.330), maternal education (OR = 0.164), and BCAS scores (OR = 1.122) as independent risk factors for obesity.

Conclusion

The current study found a significant relationship between SCT and obesity in children and adolescents. Given that obesity is a public health issue, our findings underscore the importance of evaluating SCT in morbidly obese and obese children. This understanding can lead to more comprehensive and effective treatment strategies for these children.
China’s Individualized Transformation: State, Society, and People – A New ‘Suku’ Study of Demobilized Soldiers in City S
Authors: Luo Feng , Yang Jun , Qin Tianli , Tian Xirui
Published: December 2024

Public liberty has resulted from individualized transformation, which is a crucial viewpoint for comprehending the social and political evolution of modern China. The article takes demobilized soldiers in City S, China as the starting point and examines the changes in the phenomenon of ‘Suku’ during the revolutionary era. The research reveals that the new attribution of suffering in ‘Suku’ points to the interpreted social reality under the transfer of state power, while the narrative logic supports the awakening of individual social consciousness. The outcomes of ‘Suku’ reflect the conformity in people’s lives, which is precisely the impact brought about by individualized transformation in contemporary China. The resolution of the new ‘Suku’ issue also demonstrates that due to China’s uniqueness in terms of its national role, social consciousness, and people’s lives, its impact on society remains relatively manageable.
Experiences of resettled Iraqi and Syrian refugee young people and families with a mental health triage and assessment service
Authors: King Alicia J. , Monson Katherine , Migliorini Christine , Murray Lenice , Harvey Carol
Published: December 2024

The Refugee Access Service (RAS) is a triage, assessment and referral service established in Melbourne, Australia to ensure timely and appropriate mental health support for young refugees. This qualitative study sought to explore the experiences of young people aged 12–25 years, and their families, newly arrived from Iraq and Syria, who had contact with the RAS, for the purposes of further programme development. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants, either individually or in family groups. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes. Four key themes were identified. These were that mental health help-seeking of newly arrived young people and families is influenced by cultural norms; that trauma, grief and loss influence mental health service needs; that settlement challenges influence mental health service needs; and that the cultural responsiveness of mental health care is important to young people and families. Results highlight ways in which this service, and similar models, can improve to better meet the needs of young refugees and their families. Services should be developed in partnership with the wider operating environment. This will improve providers’ understanding of communities they serve. It will also promote pathways between, and collaboration with, different types of services.
The Use of Simulation in Forensic Social Work Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Lattas Dimitra , Davis Cindy , Creamer Catherine , Jefferies Gerard
Published: December 2024

Forensic social work teachers, educators, and scholars are instrumental in shaping critical, compassionate, and competent practitioners. Students aspiring to work in forensic social work need the appropriate skills, knowledge, and training to handle the complexities, demands, and ethical issues seen in the criminal justice system. Educators require effective methods of teaching and assessing forensic social work practice competencies. This scoping review explores the role of simulation-based learning as a teaching pedagogy in forensic social work education. The results expose a significant gap in the published research on simulation-based learning in forensic social work education. Simulation-based learning has been used in forensic education to develop competence and skills, but there is a need to explore simulation-based learning as pedagogy for forensic social work education.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Acupuncture for Modulation of Immune and Inflammatory Markers in Cancer Patients
Authors: Liu Wenli , Zhong Baisong , Wagner Richard W. , Garcia M. Kay , McQuade Jennifer L. , Huang Wen , Li Yisheng , Gonzalez Graciela M. Nogueras , R. Spano Michael , Cohen Alessandro , Geng Yimin , Cohen Lorenzo
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Inflammation is associated with tumor initiation, and existing tumors are associated with immune suppression locally and systemically. Cancer treatment is also associated with immune suppression. This review evaluates evidence related to the use of acupuncture for modulation of inflammation and the immune system in cancer patients. Methods: Nine databases were searched for prospective, randomized, controlled trials evaluating the use of acupuncture for modulation of the immune system in cancer patients through March 2024. Only studies involving needle insertion into acupuncture points were included. No language limitations were applied. Studies were assessed for risk of bias (ROB) according to Cochrane criteria. The primary outcomes were levels of immune and inflammatory markers. Results: Of 3607 articles identified, 1526 duplicates were omitted, and 2261 articles were screened. Sixty-four (58 Chinese, 6 English) publications met all inclusion criteria and were evaluated for ROB. Forty-seven studies were rated as unclear ROB, and nine studies were rated as high ROB. However, when the blinding and allocation concealment criteria were removed, 12 studies had low ROB. Fifty-six studies were included in the meta-analysis, which found that acupuncture significantly increased interferon gamma (IFN-γ; P < .01), natural killer (NK) cells ( P < .01), immunoglobulin G (IgG; P = .04), immunoglobulin M (IgM; P = .04), CD3 cells ( P < .01), CD4 cells ( P < .01), and the CD4/CD8 cell ratio ( P < .01), and significantly lowered interleukin (IL)-1 ( P = .01), IL-4 ( P < .01), IL-6 ( P < .01), and C-reactive protein ( P < .01). Yet except for IFN-γ, there was high heterogeneity of results between studies. No significant differences were found in white blood cells, CD-8, neutrophil levels, IL-2, IL-10, or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Conclusion: The current evidence is insufficient to either support or refute the immunomodulatory effects of acupuncture in cancer patients due to no studies fully meeting the low ROB criterion. The preliminary data, however, are promising. Future studies that are higher powered, with low ROB designs, are warranted.
Reconstruction of topologically consistent 3D fabric drape models
Authors: Yu Zhicai , Lu Kai , Huo Yimeng , Gu Bingfei
Published: December 2024

In order to efficiently reconstruct 3D fabric drape models with consistent topology, a 3D fabric drape model dataset named Ddrape was created firstly.The dataset consists of topologically consistent 3D fabric drape models and their corresponding 2D binary images. Subsequently, a reconstruction model named Rec3FDNet, which incorporates a convolution module and a graph convolution model, was constructed and trained to reconstruct 3D fabric drape models with consistent topology based on a single binary image. During the training of Rec3FDNet, the loss function, the normalization of 3D fabric drape model, and the structure of the initial mesh of Rec3FDNet were explored. The reconstruction results were characterized using Hausdorff distance toolbox of Meshlab in Python. The results demonstrated that Rec3FDNet enables fast and accurate reconstruction of 3D fabric drape models with consistent topology. Under the optimal parameter combination, the average Hausdorff distance(error) of the reconstructed 3D fabric drape models is 1.752 mm. In addition to reconstructing results with a consistent topology, Rec3FDNet is also robust to random translation of the input image. This study provides a practical method for large-scale acquisition of 3D fabric drape models.
Effects of Emotional Eating Behaviour and Burnout Levels of Nurses on Job Performance: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
Authors: SERT Erhan , KENDİRKIRAN Gülcan
Published: December 2024

This study was conducted to determine the effects of nurses’ emotional eating behaviour and burnout levels on job performance. The population of this descriptive and cross-sectional study covered 750 nurses working in İstanbul Haseki Training and Research Hospital, and the sample included 255 nurses. The data were collected between 15.08.2023 and 15.11.2023 using the ‘Personal Information Form’, ‘Maslach Burnout Inventory’, ‘Emotional Eater Questionnaire’, and ‘Job Performance Scale’. The mean scores of the Maslach Burnout Inventory and Emotional Eater Questionnaire of the participant nurses who had been working for 1-5 years, who were dissatisfied with their work and who worked in intensive care were found significantly higher. A positive relationship was found between the Job Performance Scale, the Maslach Burnout Inventory and the Emotional Eater Questionnaire. Based on the obtained data, it was concluded that nurses experience burnout and exhibit emotional eating behaviour. Therefore, it is recommended to support nurses in managing burnout and stress, plan training sessions, and, if necessary, provide psychiatric support. Processes in the work environment can negatively affect nurses emotionally and physically, which is reflected in job performance and patient care. Burnout affects not only job performance but also emotional eating.
Middle meningeal artery embolization with standalone or adjunctive coiling for treatment of chronic subdural hematoma: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hoffman Haydn , Sims Jason J. , Nickele Christopher , Inoa Violiza , Elijovich Lucas , Goyal Nitin
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Middle meningeal artery embolization (MMAe) is increasingly utilized as a primary or secondary treatment for chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) and is usually performed with liquid embolics or particles. Outcomes after MMAe with coiling as a standalone treatment, or an adjunct to other agents, have not been reviewed.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify all original research that included patients who underwent standalone or adjunctive coiling for MMAe. The primary outcome was the need for rescue treatment defined as any unplanned reintervention for recurrent or residual cSDH.

Results

A total of 10 studies comprising 346 patients (mean age 73 years, 39% female) who underwent MMAe with coils were included. The majority of embolizations were with coils and particles ( n = 176), followed by standalone coiling (137) and coiling with liquid embolics (120). The pooled rate of rescue treatment after embolization was 9.4% (95% CI 6.4–13.6, I2 = 0). The pooled complication rate was 2.6% (95% CI 1.3–5.1, I2 = 0). In the subgroup analysis of four studies reporting results after standalone coiling, the pooled rescue treatment rate was 8.2% (95% CI 4.0–15.9, I2 = 0) and there were no complications.

Conclusion

MMAe with coils is safe and potentially effective, but additional studies evaluating long-term clinical and radiographic results after standalone coiling are needed.
Modified basilic vein transposition surgery for vascular access: Lengthening the basilic vein
Authors: Ghasemi Gorji Meghdad , Karbakhsh Ravari Fardin , Rafiei Ali
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Basilic vein transposition (BVT) surgery is a crucial option for vascular access in hemodialysis patients when other alternatives are unavailable. One of the primary complications affecting the long-term function of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) is the development of pseudoaneurysms, often caused by repeated punctures at the same site. This study aims to evaluate whether increasing the length of the basilic vein available for cannulation during the second stage of BVT surgery reduces the risk of puncture-related pseudoaneurysms, thereby improving fistula longevity and functionality.

Methods

We selected 39 hemodialysis patients unsuitable for cephalic vein AVF creation or who had failed brachiocephalic fistulas. Eligibility criteria included a basilic vein diameter of more than 2.5 mm with appropriate venous anatomy confirmed via ultrasound. In the first stage of surgery, the median basilic vein was anastomosed to the superior surface of the brachial artery. One month later, once the vein had matured (diameter ≥4 mm), a second stage was performed, which involved liberating an extended segment of the basilic vein down to the forearm. The basilic vein was then anastomosed end-to-end with the median basilic vein to increase the cannulation area. Patients were followed for 1 year to evaluate outcomes.

Results and Conclusions

All 39 patients successfully underwent the modified BVT technique. Over the 1-year follow-up period, none experienced significant AVF complications, particularly pseudoaneurysm formation. By increasing the usable length of the basilic vein for cannulation, multiple puncture sites were available, reducing the risk of repeated needle insertions at the same site. The modified BVT technique shows promise in reducing the risk of pseudoaneurysm formation and improving AVF patency, potentially enhancing the longevity and functionality of AVFs in hemodialysis patients. Further studies are necessary to confirm the efficacy of this technique in larger patient populations.
Lipoprotein(a) distribution in hospitalised Asian patients with ischaemic heart disease
Authors: Loh Wann Jia , Teo Chong Boon , Simon Oliver , Yeo Colin
Published: December 2024

Background:

Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a common hyperlipidaemic condition with strong genetic predisposition and is independently associated with ischaemic heart disease (IHD). A Mendelian randomisation study has suggested that elevated Lp(a) is likely to confer similar causal risks as heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia for premature IHD. We aimed to characterise the clinical profiles of admitted patients with IHD with at least one Lp(a) measurement. We also investigated whether elevated Lp(a) concentration was associated with premature onset of IHD.

Methods:

This is a descriptive, non-interventional, retrospective study with data from a single tertiary hospital IHD Lp(a) cohort in Singapore, which consecutively recruited 521 patients with IHD admitted to the hospital.

Results:

A total of 82.2% were men, 46.6% had newly diagnosed IHD and 10% had premature IHD. The median Lp(a) levels was 35.2 nmol/L. 70.8% of patients had normal Lp(a) concentrations (<70 nmol/L), 13.4% of people with Lp(a) ⩾ 70 to <120 nmol/L and 15.7% of patients with Lp(a) ⩾ 120 nmol/L. Lp(a) distribution was positively skewed to the right for all ethnicities. Patients of Indian ethnicity and of female gender had higher levels of Lp(a) compared with other ethnicities and gender, respectively. Multivariable regression analysis identified Lp(a) ⩾ 155 mmol/L to be associated with development of premature IHD (OR = 2.90, 95% CI: 1.26–6.67, p = 0.012).

Conclusion:

There exist differences in Lp(a) distribution across ethnicities and gender. The subgroup analysis suggests that Lp(a) ⩾ 155 mmol/L was associated with premature onset of IHD.
Scopoletin as Key Component of a Novel Acaricidal Agent and Its Production Methodology
Authors: Chen Guanxiong , Zhang Yimeng , Chen Xinyue , Yuan Jingxing , Zhang Yongqiang
Published: December 2024

Background: A large number of available substances were retained in artemisinin residual materials, and they can be extracted through further separation and purification for further utilization. Methods: Purification and bioguided separation, including silica gel column chromatography (SGCC) and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), were utilized to isolate scopoletin, an acaricidal compound, from residual materials of Artemisia annua after extraction of artemisinin (RMAAEA). A methanol crude extract was prepared and subjected to chromatographic purification. Results: A total of 20 groups were obtained. The 17th, 8th, and 18th groups showed stronger acaricidal activity against Tetranychus cinnabarinus than other groups. The 17th group was isolated by further HPLC and divided into three parts: 17-1 (16.21%, w/w), 17-2 (5.31%, w/w), and 17-3 (77.64%, w/w). The LC50 value at 48 h after treatment against T. cinnabarinus was 181.3, 701.1, and 101.5 mg·L−1. Conclusion: The combined elements of 17-3 after purification was determined as scopoletin. Its industrial process with 900 kg of residual materials finally obtained 1.23 kg of pure scopoletin.
Consuming a Foreign Africa: Outsourcing Knowledge Construction About Africa[ns]
Authors: Wahutu j. Siguru
Published: December 2024

This paper analyses the extent to which African journalism fields have outsourced the labor of knowledge construction to non-African actors. Focusing on the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and the atrocities in Darfur between 2003 and 2008, it captures the extent to which both news organizations and journalists privileged narratives from Minority World Countries as they constructed knowledge about two of the continent’s well-known massive human rights violations of the last three decades. It argues that this outsourcing is anchored by what Wunpini Mohammed calls an “everydayness of colonization,” highlighting the tension between journalistic habitus and doxa present in any analysis of journalism in Africa.
On the open borders of information and consultation rights in the EU acquis
Authors: Gil Otero Lidia , Schnittler Christina
Published: December 2024

Developments in the world of work in the last few years have resulted in an increasing number of working patterns that fall outside the scope of standard employment. In the area of digital work, in particular, more and more economically dependent employee-like workers can be found. The question therefore arises as to whether those who are not typical employees are included in the scope of protection of EU labour law. It is unclear, for example, whether one of the most important labour rights – the right to information and consultation – also applies to non-standard workers (section 1). This article addresses the question of the extent to which EU labour law de lege lata permits or even provides for the inclusion of non-standard employees in the scope of information and consultation rights. To answer this question, relevant legal acts are first analysed. In most cases, it is up to the Member States to regulate the respective scope of application and thus to include non-standard workers (sections 2 and 3). 1 Subsequently, a possible solution for an extension of information and consultation rights for non-standard workers is proposed. The developed risk approach shows that a solution should also be found at Union level for the inclusion of non-standard workers, especially in the case of employee-like workers, as they are often subject to the same risks as employees. However, a broad interpretation of Art. 27 CFR can lead to the conclusion that employee-like workers must be included at both Union and national levels (section 4).
The disagreement we overlook: Examining core and acquaintance networks in a presidential primary
Authors: Santoro Lauren Ratliff , Sokhey Anand E.
Published: December 2024

Research on interpersonal political discussion has focused on cross-party interactions. But how much disagreement exists between co-partisans in core networks, and what kinds of differences do we see in the broader acquaintance networks of co-partisans supporting different primary candidates? We use data from a nation-wide survey administered early in the 2020 Democratic nomination contest to examine these questions. In presenting descriptive analyses, we uncover substantial disagreement between Democrats—disagreement that would be missed entirely by traditional measures focused solely on whether individuals share partisanship or general election vote choice. We also find intriguing patterns when looking at the acquaintance networks of Democrats who supported different primary candidates. We discuss how studying intraparty disagreement can not only aid our understanding of how primary nomination contests mobilize distinct constituencies, but also suggest strategies for potentially mitigating interparty disagreement.
Adapting a pregnancy app (HealthyMoms) to support healthy habits in migrant women—a qualitative study on women's preferences and perceived needs to support health behaviors during pregnancy
Authors: Söderström Emmie , Alexandrou Christina , Bressanutti Sara , Sandborg Johanna , Lindqvist Anna-Karin , Löf Marie
Published: December 2024

Background

Healthy lifestyle behaviors in pregnancy are important for maternal and offspring health. Mobile health (mHealth) tools have potential to provide support for lifestyle behaviors at scale but such tools are commonly developed only in native languages, limiting reach in migrant populations.

Objectives

This qualitative study, in two of the largest migrant populations in Sweden (Arabic- and Somali-speaking women), aimed to explore (a) perceptions and needs of knowledge and support related to pregnancy and lifestyle behaviors and (b) needs of and attitudes towards a pregnancy app and how features and content in the app can be adapted to support healthier lifestyle behaviors in migrant women.

Method

Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with Arabic ( n = 10) and Somali-speaking women ( n = 9). Data was analyzed using content analysis (inductive latent approach).

Results

Arabic- and Somali-speaking women described an increased need of knowledge regarding pregnancy and lifestyle behaviors. The social environment could both motivate behavior change and be a source of misinformation. Women expressed great trust in maternity healthcare but requested more information related to lifestyle behaviors. A pregnancy app was perceived as a helpful tool to support healthy lifestyle behaviors. Mere translations were suggested to be valuable, however, audio- and video-format to deliver content and inclusion of women's partners in the app were described as desirable adaptations.

Conclusion

Our findings can guide maternity healthcare on what support migrant women need and inform future development of mHealth tools for pregnant migrant populations. Future research should disentangle the degree of cultural adaptations required for mHealth lifestyle interventions provided by healthcare.