bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of hearing loss and factors associated with hearing loss in Ethiopia: findings from the 2023 National Ethiopia Hearing Survey
Authors: Meshesha Alene , Fröschl Uta , Kebede Michael , Biratu Tolesa Diriba , Worku Yoseph , Hunduma Fufa
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To assess the prevalence and associated factors of hearing loss in Ethiopia, considering socioeconomic conditions, regional variations and age-related impacts.

Design

Nationwide cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Data were collected from 2 February to 10 June 2023, covering all regions of Ethiopia except Tigray (due to security concerns).

Participants

A sample of 3000 households and 7061 individuals aged 5 years and above was selected using a multistage sampling procedure. Eligible participants had resided in the area for at least 6 months. Exclusions included visitors, critically ill individuals and those with communication difficulties.

Outcome measures

Hearing loss was defined as an average hearing threshold >20 dB in the better ear at frequencies of 0.5 kHz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz and 4 kHz, measured using pure-tone audiometry. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine factors associated with hearing loss.

Results

The overall prevalence of hearing loss among individuals aged 5+ years was 18.4%. The prevalence was 8.1% among children aged 5–14 years and 73.7% among adults aged 60+ years. Factors significantly associated with hearing loss included being over 60 years old (adjusted OR (AOR)=51.41; 95% CI 36.95, 71.53), having no formal education (AOR=2.12; 95% CI 1.47, 3.08), ear discharge (AOR=3.01; 95% CI 2.07, 4.38), wax presence (AOR=1.92; 95% CI 1.53, 2.40), and tympanic membrane abnormality (AOR=17.17; 95% CI 12.27, 24.02). Participants from the Harari (AOR=3.25; 95% CI 1.85, 5.72) and Somali (AOR=2.37; 95% CI 1.49, 3.77) regions were more likely to experience hearing loss compared with those from other regions.

Conclusions

Hearing loss is highly prevalent in Ethiopia, influenced by both modifiable and non-modifiable factors. Regional disparities in hearing loss suggest a need for targeted interventions. Evidence-based policies and strategies are essential to reduce ear diseases, improve hearing care services, and address disparities in hearing health across regions.
Gender-affirming care education in pharmacy: a scoping review protocol of practices in Canada and the USA
Authors: Jackman Liam , Kamran Rakhshan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Gender-affirming care refers to a range of social, psychological, medical and/or surgical interventions provided to affirm one’s gender. Pharmacists play a key role in gender-affirming care and are involved with choosing optimal treatments, monitoring progress/side-effects and providing education. However, it is currently unknown what gender-affirming care education is provided to pharmacy students and pharmacists according to information available in published literature. This is important to identify potential education gaps in pharmacy curricula and an understanding of the current state of gender-affirming care education in pharmacy.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review protocol follows guidance from Arksey and O’Malley and Levac and colleagues. The population, concept and context framework are used to specify the research question and subsequently the search strategy. Database searching will occur across four databases: Medline, Embase, APA PsycINFO and Scopus; with the search date ranging from inception to 1 January 2025. Eligible studies will include pharmacy students or pharmacists, and examine the presence of gender-affirming care pharmacy education in Canada and the USA. There are no restrictions to date. Article screening and extraction will occur independently and in duplicate. Educational interventions, gender-affirming care content and recommendations extracted from each article will be narratively synthesised. This work is undertaken with patients and public involvement.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as this is a review of published studies and does not collect any human data. Results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication and conference presentations.
Value of ctDNA in surveillance of adjuvant chemosensitivity and regimen adjustment in stage III colon cancer: a protocol for phase II multicentre randomised controlled trial (REVISE trial)
Authors: Zhou Jiahao , Huang Jun , Zhou Zikai , Fan Rui , Deng Xiangbing , Qiu Meng , Wu Qingbin , Wang Ziqiang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The standard of care for stage III colon cancer is 3 or 6 months of double-drug regimen chemotherapy following radical surgery. However, patients with positive circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) exhibit a high risk of recurrence risk even if they receive standard adjuvant chemotherapy. The potential benefit of intensified adjuvant chemotherapy, oxaliplatin, irinotecan, leucovorin and fluoropyrimidine (FOLFOXIRI), for ctDNA-positive patients remains to be elucidated.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre phase II randomised controlled trial aims to investigate the utility of ctDNA in monitoring chemosensitivity and to preliminarily assess whether intensified chemotherapy with FOLFOXIRI can increase ctDNA clearance and improve survival outcomes. A total of 60 eligible patients with stage III colon cancer exhibiting postoperatively positive ctDNA before and after two cycles of oxaliplatin and capecitabine (XELOX) will be randomly assigned to continue five additional cycles of XELOX (control arm) or switch to eight cycles of FOLFOXIRI (experimental arm). This sequential approach is designed to escalate treatment for patients with persistent ctDNA positivity while avoiding overtreatment in those who may respond well to standard chemotherapy. The primary endpoint is the change in ctDNA concentration, defined as the difference between the ctDNA concentration measured after two cycles of XELOX and after the completion or termination of chemotherapy. Secondary endpoints include the ctDNA clearance rate, 2-year disease-free survival, distant metastasis-free survival, chemotherapy-related side effects and quality of life.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the West China Hospital, Sichuan University (approval number: 20231998). The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06242418, registered on 27 January 2024).
Use of predictive severity scoring for lower gastrointestinal bleeding in a high-volume unit
Authors: Boyle Connor , Balfour James , Yao Sarina , Ventham Nicholas T
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) has an estimated annual incidence of 33–87/100 000 in the UK, accounting for 3% of emergency surgical referrals. British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) recommend risk scoring for LGIB to categorise severity and plan management. Experience in a tertiary centre suggests this potentially overestimates the severity of bleeding and requirement for inpatient admission.

Method

Data were retrospectively collected for all patients referred from primary care or emergency departments with LGIB from 1 May 2020 to 1 April 2021. Demographics and Oakland score (OS), recommended in BSG guidelines, were collected. OS >8 suggests admission. Outcomes following referral, including admission, discharge, blood transfusion and radiological/surgical intervention, were assessed.

Results

294 patients were assessed. 176 patients (59.9%) were admitted for further management. The median OS for admitted patients was 12 (IQR 9–17). 30 patients (10.2%) required blood transfusion, and three required radiological/surgical intervention (1%). 118 (40.1%) patients were discharged. The median OS was 10 (IQR 8–12). 80 patients discharged had a score >8, recommending admission; four patients required readmission (5.0%); however, none required intervention. 38 patients were discharged with a score ≤8; again, patients (10.5%) required readmission for LGIB, with none requiring intervention. Fisher’s exact test showed no statistical significance between OS and readmission (p=0.22).

Conclusion

Risk assessment scoring recommended admission for a large cohort of patients safely discharged after initial assessment in our centre. A small number required readmission; however, none suffered significant adverse outcomes. Further investigation should assess whether such scoring systems are too cautious for use in specialist LGI/colorectal centres.
Artisse intrasaccular device for intracranial aneurysm treatment: a technical video case
Authors: De Toledo Otavio F , Gutierrez-Aguirre Salvador F , Lara-Velazquez Montserrat , Rodriguez-Erazu Fernanda , Killer-Oberpfalzer Monika , Hanel Ricardo A
Published: January 2025

The Artisse intrasaccular device (Medtronic) offers a novel treatment option for unruptured and ruptured wide-neck bifurcating intracranial aneurysms.1 2

The Artisse device features enhancements including a distal tip for dome protection, platinum band markers for improved visibility, and a bilayer high-density platinum core nitinol mesh basket for enhanced flexibility and visibility when compared with previous devices.2–7 Data from case series demonstrate the procedural safety and efficacy of the Artisse device.1 2 This versatile flared-shape intrasaccular device can be used alongside products such as the Rebar microcatheter 18 and Navien.2 In Europe, an adequate occlusion rate of 78% at 12 months and 79.2% at 36 months follow-up has been shown.3 8 This video documents the embolization of a wide-neck unruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm using the Artisse device, where Sim&Size was used for proper sizing (video 1).4 9 The procedure was uneventful, achieving successful device deployment with no parent vessel compromise.

Video 1

Artisse intrasaccular device for intracranial aneurysm treatment—first in the USA
How to use the Artisse intrasaccular device
Authors: Lynch Jeremy , Mohd Shariq , Londhe Shrikant , Bellam Premnath Krishna Prasad , Lewis Martin , Sciacca Sara , Patankar Tufail
Published: January 2025

Intrasaccular flow disruption has become established for the treatment of wide necked and bifurcation aneurysms. The most successful current devices are the WEB (Microvention) and Contour (Stryker). The Artisse (Medtronic) is a novel intrasaccular device designed to treat a variety of aneurysm morphologies. The first generation Artisse device was used in clinical trials in 2016.1 This device has now been significantly modified, and this video discusses the second generation (video 1). The current device features a dual layer, 72 wire mesh basket. It includes an atraumatic, off-center distal tip to prevent aneurysm dome damage during deployment, and proximal and distal marker bands for improved visibility. There are currently limited sizes of the device compared with the WEB. Deployment is via a 0.021 inch microcatheter. This technical video discusses the device with the aid of an illustrative case of an middle cerebral artery aneurysm.

Video 1

 The Artisse device.
Outcomes of venous sinus stenosis stenting in patients with pulsatile tinnitus and sigmoid sinus wall anomalies
Authors: Abdalkader Mohamad , Klein Piers , Nguyen Thanh N
Published: January 2025

Background

Transverse sinus stenosis (TSS) and sigmoid sinus wall anomalies (SSWAs) are the most common causes of pulsatile tinnitus (PT). While these conditions may co-occur, they usually require different management approaches. This study aims to evaluate whether TSS stenting alone, without targeted treatment of SSWAs, is sufficient to resolve PT in patients presenting with PT, TSS, and SSWAs.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of consecutive patients diagnosed with PT, TSS, and SSWAs who underwent transvenous endovascular treatment between September 2020 and January 2024. The primary outcome was treatment success at 3 months, defined as complete resolution of baseline PT. Secondary outcomes included treatment success at 24 hours and 1 year, PT recurrence within 1 year, and major complications.

Results

Thirty-three patients with PT, TSS, and SSWAs underwent 38 procedures. Among these, 14 cases (36.8%) had dehiscence alone, 3 cases (7.9%) with diverticulum alone, and 20 cases (52.6%) involved both dehiscence and diverticulum. Stenting alone was performed in 25 cases (65.8%), stent-assisted coiling in 9 cases (23.7%), and coiling alone in 4 cases (10.5%). The primary outcome of complete resolution of PT at 3 months was achieved in 86.1% (31/36) of cases, with partial resolution in an additional 13.9% (5/36) of cases. There was no difference in outcomes between cases of isolated stenting and those involving coiling or stent-assisted coiling.

Conclusion

Transverse sinus stenting alone, without dedicated treatment of SSWAs, resolves PT in patients with TSS and SSWAs. These results support the growing evidence that SSWAs are secondary to TSS in patients with PT and/or idiopathic intracranial hypertension, suggesting that additional interventions like coiling or surgery of SSWAs may be unnecessary.
Probing active-sterile neutrino transition magnetic moment on coherent elastic solar neutrino-nucleus scattering
Authors: Demirci M. , Mustamin M. F.
Published: January 2025

In the presence of a transition magnetic moment between active and sterile neutrinos, sterile neutrinos could be produced by neutrino beams electromagnetically upscattering on nuclei. We study the active-sterile neutrino transition magnetic moment through this upscattering in the coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering process induced by solar neutrinos. We place new limits on the transition magnetic moment-sterile neutrino mass plane using the latest data from the CDEX-10 experiment. We also provide projected sensitivities for future measurements. We observe that the projected sensitivities could cover some regions of the parameter space which were previously unexplored for the sterile neutrino mass up to $$\sim 10$$

∼
10

MeV.
A Rational Approach to the Treatment of Acute Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Faggioni Michela , Giri Jay , Glassmoyer Lauren , Kobayashi Taisei
Published: January 2025

Over the past decade, new modalities have emerged to treat acute pulmonary embolism (PE). However, PE remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. In the absence of robust clinical trial data and definitive guidelines and recommendations for a variety of clinical situations, individual patient treatment decisions have become paradoxically more challenging as innovation in the space has grown. In this review, we discuss a practical and current approach to patients diagnosed with PE, focusing on their risk stratification and treatment selection.
Augmented Reality for Surgical Navigation: A Review of Advanced Needle Guidance Systems for Percutaneous Tumor Ablation
Authors: Evans Michael , Kang Saakhi , Bajaber Abubakr , Gordon Kyle , Martin Charles
Published: January 2025

Currently available augmented reality–based needle guidance systems offer the potential to improve surgical navigation during percutaneous tumor ablation procedures, but further research is needed to evaluate benefits and challenges of widescale clinical adoption.
mTOR signaling regulates multiple metabolic pathways in human lung fibroblasts after TGF-β and in pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Shin Kun Woo D. , Atalay M. Volkan , Cetin-Atalay Rengul , O’Leary Erin M. , Glass Mariel E. , Szafran Jennifer C. Houpy , Woods Parker S. , Meliton Angelo Y. , Shamaa Obada R. , Tian Yufeng , Mutlu Gökhan M. , Hamanaka Robert B.
Published: January 2025

Here, we used transcriptomic and metabolomic approaches to develop a more complete understanding of the role that mTOR, and its downstream effector ATF4, play in promoting metabolic reprogramming in lung fibroblasts. We identify novel metabolic pathways that may promote pathologic phenotypes, and we provide evidence from single-cell RNA-seq datasets that similar metabolic reprogramming occurs in patient lungs.
Daily blood flow restriction does not affect muscle fiber capillarization and satellite cell content during 2 wk of bed rest in healthy young men
Authors: Aussieker Thorben , Fuchs Cas J. , Zorenc Antoine H. , Verdijk Lex B. , van Loon Luc J. C. , Snijders Tim
Published: January 2025

We recently reported that the application of daily blood flow restriction (BFR) treatment does not preserve muscle mass or strength and does not modulate daily muscle protein synthesis rates during 2 wk of bed rest. Here, we show that 2 wk of bed rest resulted in a decrease in satellite cell (SC) content. In addition, the BFR treatment did not affect muscle fiber size, capillarization, and SC content during 2 wk of bed rest.
TOP1 Mutations and Cross-Resistance to Antibody–Drug Conjugates in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Abelman Rachel O. , Wu Bogang , Barnes Haley , Medford Arielle , Norden Bryanna , Putur Annika , Bitman Elena , Thant Win , Liu Ting , Weipert Caroline , Fell Geoffrey , Spring Laura M. , Wander Seth A. , Moy Beverly , Vidula Neelima , Isakoff Steven J. , Varkaris Andreas , Juric Dejan , Corcoran Ryan B. , Ellisen Leif W. , Bardia Aditya
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Antibody–drug conjugates (ADC) harboring topoisomerase I (TOP1) inhibitor payloads have improved survival for patients with metastatic breast cancer. However, knowledge of ADC resistance mechanisms and potential impact on the sequential use of ADCs is limited. In this study, we report the incidence and characterization of TOP1 mutations arising in the setting of ADC resistance in metastatic breast cancer.

Experimental Design:

Patients with metastatic breast cancer treated with ADCs with available posttreatment plasma-based genotyping were included. TOP1 mutation incidence, mutant allele frequency, and functional characterization were assessed, and incidence was compared with that in patients with metastatic breast cancer not receiving ADC treatment and in The Cancer Genome Atlas.

Results:

Plasma-based genotyping identified distinct TOP1 mutations (S57C, R364H, W401C, and G359E) in 12.9% of patients (4/31) at the time of disease progression on ADC, compared with 0.7% (3/420) in non–ADC-treated patients with metastatic breast cancer and 0.5% in The Cancer Genome Atlas. The appearance of mutations was associated with clinical cross-resistance, as median duration on the first ADC was 455 versus 52 days for the second ADC. The functional characterization of three novel TOP1-mutant proteins demonstrated that all exhibited reduced enzymatic activity, attenuated covalent DNA binding, and resistance to TOP1 inhibitor ADC payloads SN38 and deruxtecan.

Conclusions:

We describe the recurrent emergence of functionally altered, resistance-associated TOP1 mutations in vivo under selective pressure from ADCs and the potential impact on mediating cross-resistance to sequential ADCs. TOP1 mutation may represent a biomarker of resistance in this setting, and additional work is needed to optimize biomarkers and ADC payload design to improve outcomes for the sequential use of ADCs.
Data from Missense Mutant p53 Transactivates Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling in Neighboring p53-Destabilized Cells through the COX-2/PGE2 Pathway
Authors: Nakayama Mizuho , Saito Hiroshi , Murakami Kazuhiro , Oshima Hiroko , Oshima Masanobu
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Missense-type p53 mutations have shown to acquire novel oncogenic roles through a gain-of-function mechanism. However, there is intratumor heterogeneity in stabilization of mutant p53 protein, and it has not been well understood about the interaction between p53-stabilized and -destabilized cells in the same tumors. We established mouse intestinal tumor–derived organoids carrying ApcΔ716, KrasG12D, and Tgfbr2−/− mutations with Trp53R270H or Trp53Null mutation (AKTPR270H and AKTPNull, respectively). Using these organoids, we found that the activation level of Wnt/β-catenin signaling is significantly higher in AKTPR270H cells compared with AKTPNull cells. Notably, Wnt activation in the AKTPNull cells was significantly increased when co-cultured with AKTPR270H cells. Expression analysis revealed that COX-2 is significantly upregulated in AKTPR270H but not in AKTPNull cells, suggesting that mutant p53 induces the COX-2/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) pathway. Importantly, Wnt activation in co-cultured AKTPNull cells with AKTPR270H was significantly suppressed when treated with the inhibitor of COX-2 or PGE2 receptors EP2/EP4. Furthermore, stimulation with PGE2 increased Wnt signaling activity in AKTPNull cells. These results indicate that the COX-2/PGE2 pathway is activated in the p53-stabilized cells in the missense-type p53-mutant cancer, and secreted PGE2 may transactivate Wnt/β-catenin signaling in neighboring p53-destabilized tumor cells in the intratumor microenvironment. Therefore, targeting stabilized mutant p53 or the COX-2/PGE2 pathway may suppress Wnt/β-catenin signaling of both mutant p53–stabilized and –destabilized cells; thus, this can be a possible preventive or therapeutic strategy.
Significance:
There is intratumor heterogeneity in the stabilization of missense mutant p53, and it has been thought that only cells with nuclear accumulation of mutant p53 have oncogenic function. However, using mouse intestinal tumor–derived organoids, we show that mutant p53–stabilized cells transactivate Wnt/β-catenin signaling in neighboring p53-destabilized cells through activating the COX-2/PGE2 pathway. These results suggest that both p53-stabilized cells and p53-destabilized cells contribute to malignant progression through interaction within the intratumor microenvironment.
A Holistic Approach to the Measurement of Physical Function in Clinical Research
Authors: Richards Jennifer C. , Bachman Shelby L. , Leonard-Corzo Krista , Aryal Suvekshya , Blankenship Jennifer M. , Clay Ieuan , Lyden Kate
Published: January 2025

Background: This commentary highlights the evolution of our understanding of physical function (PF) and key models/frameworks that have contributed to the current holistic understanding of PF, which encompasses not only a person’s performance but also the environment and any adaptations an individual utilizes. This commentary also addresses how digital health tools can facilitate and complement the assessment of holistic PF and enable both objective and subjective input from the participant in their real-world environment. Lastly, we discuss how successful implementation of digital tools within clinical research requires patient input. Summary: This commentary highlights how our understanding of PF has evolved to be more holistic. Key Messages: Inclusion of digital tools within clinical research can provide a path forward to holistically assess PF in a patient-focused manner.
Pragmatic Language Skills of Turkish Speaking Children Who Stutter
Authors: Asal Deniz , Kulak Kayıkcı Maviş Emel , Karahan Tığrak Tuğçe
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The study aims to investigate the relationship between pragmatic language skills of children who stutter (CWS) and the frequency of stuttering, with a focus on the development of these skills through peer interaction in the school years. It is well-known that CWS may face social disadvantages at school due to their limited peer interaction, which may pose a risk to the development of their pragmatic language skills.
Method: The study involved 64 CWS aged between 60 and 106 months. Stuttering frequency was determined by analysing children's spontaneous speech recordings during playtime with their parents. The children’s language development was assessed using the Turkish School Age Language Development Assessment Test (TODİL), while speech sound disorders were evaluated using the Turkish Articulation and Phonology Test (SST). Teachers of children whose language and speech sound development were typical development were contacted to evaluate the pragmatic language skills of the children using the Pragmatic Language Skills Inventory (PLSI).
Results: The results of the evaluation showed that 51.6% of the children had below average pragmatic language skills. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed between the frequency of stuttering and PLSI (p<0.05), suggesting that as the frequency of stuttering increased, pragmatic language skills scores decrease.
Conclusion: Children who stutter may face challenges in communicating effectively, despite their formal language assessment results falling within the normal range. The findings support that pragmatic language skills should be considered when treating stuttering due to their critical role in academic and social outcomes.
Effects of the Arrangement and Height Variability of Roughness Obstacles on the Structure and Intensity of Tornado-Like Vortices
Authors: Sato Hiroki , Takemi Tetsuya
Published: January 2025

To reveal the effects of surface roughness on the structure and intensity of tornadic flow, we conducted numerical simulations, in which the horizontal density and height of obstacles were controlled independently. Simulation with a low external swirl ratio produced a tornado-like vortex with a narrow core radius. For this low-swirl vortex, when the horizontal density of obstacles was varied while the obstacle height was maintained, the lowest value of maximum tangential wind speed was achieved at a moderate horizontal density; a greater horizontal density led to an increase in the maximum tangential wind speed. By contrast, an increase in obstacle height always resulted in a lower maximum tangential wind speed. The mechanisms underlying such results were considered from the viewpoint of angular momentum depletion. Tall and moderately densely distributed obstacles generated a large amount of depleted angular momentum flux, which thickened the low angular momentum layer inside the corner flow region and the core region of the vortices. As a result, the maximum tangential wind speed decreased in association with the decrease in the radial gradient of angular momentum. Additional simulations were then run with a higher external swirl ratio, which resulted in vortices with a wider core radius. Even the roughness distribution with the highest and moderately dense obstacles did not notably reduce the intensity of the higher-swirl vortex, while the flow structure changed in larger scale. The results of this study suggest that urban roughness with a moderate density of tall buildings may weaken low swirl, thin tornadoes but does not preclude high swirl, wide tornadoes, at least through vortex-scale processes.

Significance Statement

In this study, we investigate the frictional effects of surface roughness on the intensity and the structure of tornado-like vortices in vortex-scale processes from computational fluid simulations that directly resolve the roughness obstacles. We show that the influence of roughness is maximized when tall obstacles are distributed at a moderate density, such as in urban terrain. This is considered to be because the intensity of the tornado-like vortices is dominated by the angular momentum stratification inside the central region of the vortices, which is strongly influenced by the surface flow at a depth of a similar length scale. This study indicates that small-scale topography, which is not always fully resolved in meteorological models, has a nonnegligible influence on tornado intensity.
Predicting customer intention to adopt mobile commerce in Jordan
Authors: Gharaibeh Malik Khlaif
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

The progress made in wireless communications has led to a higher adoption of mobile devices among users and has spurred the development of mobile commerce technology.

OBJECTIVE

This research examines the factors influencing the intention to adopt mobile commerce in Jordan. These factors include perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, trust, social influence, personal innovation, and mobility.

METHODS

The study relied on Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), incorporating additional variables to suit the Jordanian context. The researchers gathered data from 540 users, and the research hypotheses were evaluated using smartPLS analysis. The study utilized a convenience sample due to the absence of a comprehensive list of names of mobile commerce users.

RESULTS

The results reveal that perceived usefulness, trust, social influence, personal innovation, and mobility play a significant role in influencing adoption intentions of mobile commerce. Furthermore, the study finds that mobility significantly affects the perceived usefulness of mobile commerce. In contrast, perceived ease of use does not show a statistically significant relationship on the intention to adopt mobile commerce.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of this research provide valuable insights for companies, service developers, and mobile marketers, enabling them to enhance the adoption rate of this service among individuals.
Nonlinear vibration analysis and defect characterization using entropy measure-based learning algorithm in a defective rolling element bearings
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Narayanan Sadagopan , Shakya Piyush
Published: January 2025

Rolling element bearings (REBs) constitute a crucial element in rotating machinery, and their malfunction is one of the most common reasons for unplanned outages and shutdowns. As a result, monitoring the health of REBs, detecting and diagnosing the size and location of faults, and assessing their degradation have been the subject of extensive research. In the last few decades, several signal processing techniques such as Fast Fourier transform, Wavelet transform, Hilbert transform, artificial neural network, and recurrence plot (RP), among others, have been proposed for the diagnosis and prognosis of REBs. However, most of these techniques provide only a qualitative diagnosis while ignoring the quantitative aspect of the faults. The current work proposes a novel entropy-based fault detection approach and grading the condition of bearings from noisy time history measurements. Entropy-based measures based on Kullback–Leibler and Shannon entropy from vibration signals have been used for grading the condition of bearings. Subsequently, these entropy basis measures have been successfully tested on vibration signatures from various bearing fault types occurring at different locations. The results indicate a one-to-one relation between fault severity and its entropy measure. Moreover, each type of bearing fault has been shown to have a well-defined entropy measure, for different faults lie on a nearly linear locus. In addition to the field and experimental data obtained in the workshop, a nonlinear vibration model under the combined effect of the unbalanced and non-Gaussian Poisson loading has been developed to obtain the acceleration time waveform for the fault severity assessment. The noisy nonlinear model takes into account the Hertizian contact force between the ball and races, internal clearance, race waviness, varying compliances, and localized defects. The adaptive time stepping (ATSP) numerical integration combined with the Brownian tree is used to obtain the nonlinear vibration response. The results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm in the diagnosis and prognosis of various types of REB faults.
Coexistence of adenomyomatosis in a left-sided gallbladder: a case report
Authors: Tolba Mohamed , Hafez Hadeer , Adel John
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The coexistence of gallbladder (LSG) and adenomyomatosis (ADM) is extremely uncommon presenting a novel clinical dilemma that has not been previously documented. LSG refers to a anomaly where the gallbladder is situated to the left of the round ligament deviating from its usual position. This anomaly is rare, with reported occurrences ranging between 0.04% and 1.1%. Identifying LSG before surgery poses challenges. It is often discovered incidentally during procedures necessitating surgical expertise to safely manage anatomical variations.

Case presentation

We report an old man with a history of hepatitis C, carcinoma and liver cirrhosis complained of sudden epigastric pain. A CT scan revealed the presence of an LSG, which’s a congenital anomaly. During the cholecystectomy procedure surgeons encountered variations and observed the existence of ADM complicating the operation. The patient recovered smoothly post surgery.

Discussion

This case shows how complicated it can be to diagnose and treat the combination of LSG and ADM. Identifying these conditions before surgery is tough so surgeons often have to adjust their approach during the operation. Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy for LSG is usually safe it requires care to avoid problems like bile duct injuries. For patients at risk a conservative treatment approach might be better. In cases where surgery is necessary surgeons need to adapt their techniques to address the unique anatomical issues.

Conclusion

The combination of LSG and ADM in a setting poses an intricate challenge. Surgeons need to be ready to recognize and address these abnormalities effectively for the well being of the patient and favorable results. This particular case highlights the importance of staying alert and flexible during surgery when dealing with gallbladder variations.
Intravenous anesthesia with high-flow nasal cannula improves recovery in elderly undergoing ureteroscopic lithotripsy: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Tang Lifei , Guo Ran , Quan Yaochen , Zhang Haiwen , Qian Yingcong , Yu Youjia , Song Shaoyong , Li Jian
Published: January 2025

Background

Intravenous anesthesia with high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) has been reported to benefit oxygen reserves and enhance postoperative recovery in surgeries requiring low neuromuscular blockade. This study investigated whether HFNC improves recovery quality in elderly undergoing ureteroscopic holmium laser lithotripsy (UHLL).

Methods

We enrolled 106 elderly patients undergoing UHLL, with 96 patients (48 per group) included in the final analysis. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1, stratified by sex) to receive either HFNC (HFNC group) or laryngeal mask airway (LMA) assisted general anesthesia (LMA group). The primary outcome was the Quality of Recovery 15-questionnaire (QoR-15) scores. Secondary outcomes included PACU stay duration, time to out-of-bed mobilization, length of hospital stay, airway dryness scores, surgeons’ satisfaction, and postoperative complications.

Results

Compared to the LMA group, the HFNC group achieved significantly higher QoR-15 scores (125.5 [118.3–130.0] vs. 136.5 [126.3–139.0]; difference = -9, 95%CI, -11 to -5; P < 0.001) on the first postoperative day. For secondary outcomes, the HFNC group had a shorter PACU stay (difference = 11.6 min, 95% CI, 10.4–12.8 min), earlier out-of-bed mobilization (difference = 31.8 min, 95% CI, 30.6–33.1 min), lower mouth (difference = 2, 95% CI, 1–3) and throat dryness scores (difference = 2, 95% CI, 1–3) at 30 min post-operation, and lower rates of postoperative sore throat (14.6% vs. 0%; P = 0.019) and cough with sputum (odds ratio [OR] = 9.4, 95% CI, 1.1–78.4). No significant differences were observed between the groups for other measures.

Conclusions

HFNC can improve recovery quality in elderly patients after UHLL compared to LMA-assisted general anesthesia.

Trial registration

This trial was registered on July 20, 2023, in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300073757).
Late onset cerebellar ataxia syndrome after non-paraneoplastic Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome: a case study
Authors: Randall David P. , Randall Matthew C.
Published: January 2025

This is an unusual case of voltage gated calcium channel (VGCC) antibodies leading to two distinct and chronologically separated neurologic syndromes without the presence of an underlying neoplasm. Lambert Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) presented five years prior to cerebellar ataxia. Both LEMS and cerebellar ataxia were responsive to treatment, but not the same therapy. He was diagnosed with LEMS through history, exam, electromyography/nerve conduction studies (EMG/NCS) with repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) and antibody testing. He was treated with 3,4 diaminopyridine (3,4 DAP) with an excellent response. Five years later, he developed acute ataxia. The patient required months of intensive and continued immunomodulating therapy.
Evaluation of an enhanced ResNet-18 classification model for rapid On-site diagnosis in respiratory cytology
Authors: Gong Wei , Vaishnani Deep K. , Jin Xuan-Chen , Zeng Jing , Chen Wei , Huang Huixia , Zhou Yu-Qing , Hla Khaing Wut Yi , Geng Chen , Ma Jun
Published: January 2025

Objective

Rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) of respiratory cytology specimens is a critical technique for accurate and timely diagnosis of lung cancer. However, in China, limited familiarity with the Diff-Quik staining method and a shortage of trained cytopathologists hamper utilization of ROSE. Therefore, developing an improved deep learning model to assist clinicians in promptly and accurately evaluating Diff-Quik stained cytology samples during ROSE has important clinical value.

Methods

Retrospectively, 116 digital images of Diff-Quik stained cytology samples were obtained from whole slide scans. These included 6 diagnostic categories - carcinoid, normal cells, adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, non-small cell carcinoma, and small cell carcinoma. All malignant diagnoses were confirmed by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. The test image set was presented to 3 cytopathologists from different hospitals with varying levels of experience, as well as an artificial intelligence system, as single-choice questions.

Results

The diagnostic accuracy of the cytopathologists correlated with their years of practice and hospital setting. The AI model demonstrated proficiency comparable to the humans. Importantly, all combinations of AI assistance and human cytopathologist increased diagnostic efficiency to varying degrees.

Conclusions

This deep learning model shows promising capability as an aid for on-site diagnosis of respiratory cytology samples. However, human expertise remains essential to the diagnostic process.
Exploring the stigma experienced by people affected by Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review
Authors: Crooks Sophie , Mitchell Gary , Wynne Lisa , Carter Gillian
Published: January 2025

Background

Stigma significantly impacts individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their caregivers, exacerbating social isolation, psychological distress, and reducing quality of life (QoL). Although considerable research has been conducted on PD’s clinical aspects, the social and emotional challenges, like stigma, remain underexplored. Addressing stigma is crucial for enhancing well-being, fostering inclusivity and improving access to care and support. The review aims to fill this knowledge gap by synthesising existing literature on PD stigma, examining its effects on individuals and families affected, and identifying areas where interventions could reduce stigma’s impact.

Methods

This systematic review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute guidance. Studies were identified through searches in six databases, relevant websites, and reference lists. Covidence was used for duplicate removal, screening, and data extraction. Thematic analysis identified key themes from qualitative data, while narrative synthesis integrated findings from qualitative and quantitative studies. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023399343).

Results

This review included 22 studies published between 2002 and 2024, using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Five key themes emerged. The first highlighted stereotypes in PD, such as misconceptions about symptoms, age stereotyping, and supernatural beliefs. The second explored drivers and facilitators of stigma, identifying factors like duration since diagnosis, disease severity, lack of public education, and media representation. The third theme revealed stigma’s impact on mental health and well-being, exacerbating feelings of shame, embarrassment, and social isolation. The fourth, responses and consequences of stigma, detailed strategies employed by individuals with PD to manage stigma, including seeking social support and adopting coping mechanisms. The fifth theme, beyond stigma, explored positive aspects of living with PD, highlighting resilience, positive interactions, and advocacy efforts.

Conclusion

This systematic review underscores the significant impact of stigma on individuals with PD and their caregivers, manifesting as social isolation, diminished QoL, and psychological distress. Key drivers include public misconceptions, cultural biases, and limited awareness and addressing these challenges requires targeted interventions. Recommendations include education to dispel myths, public awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts to reduce stigma, enhance support, and improve QoL.
Increasing the biomolecular relevance of cell culture practice
Authors: Ghebosu Raluca E. , Hui Lawrence , Wolfram Joy
Published: January 2025

The biomolecular relevance of medium supplements is a key challenge affecting cell culture practice. The biomolecular composition of commonly used supplements differs from that of a physiological environment, affecting the validity of conclusions drawn from in vitro studies. This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of common supplements, including context-dependent considerations for supplement selection to improve biomolecular relevance, especially in nanomedicine and extracellular vesicle research.
A cross-sectional study assessing barriers and facilitators to the sustainability of physical activity and nutrition interventions in early childhood education and care settings
Authors: Imad Noor , Hall Alix , Nathan Nicole , Shoesmith Adam , Pearson Nicole , Lum Melanie , Grady Alice , Nolan Erin , Yoong Serene
Published: January 2025

Background

Effective evidence-based physical activity and nutrition interventions to prevent overweight and obesity and support healthy child development need to be sustained within Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services. Despite this, little is known about factors that influence sustainability of these programs in ECEC settings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to describe the factors related to sustainability of physical activity and nutrition interventions in ECEC settings and examine their association with ECEC service characteristics.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was undertaken with a nationally representative sample of 473 Australian ECEC services. Factors related to the sustainability of ECEC-based physical activity and nutrition interventions were assessed using the validated Integrated Measure of PRogram Element SuStainability in Childcare Settings (IMPRESS-C), measuring Outer Contextual Factors, Inner Contextual Factors, Processes and Characteristics of the Intervention domains for interventions that supervisors reported as currently implementing. Participants responded using a 5-point Likert scale, with responses ranging from 1 (completely disagree) to 5 (completely agree). Domain scores were calculated for each service by averaging item responses. Linear regression models between ECEC service characteristics and the IMPRESS-C domains were undertaken.

Results

Data from 473 Australian childcare services nationally found that the domains: Processes ($$\overline{x }$$

x
¯

=3.78, SD = 0.64), consisting of partnership/engagement and training/support/supervision; and Outer Contextual Factors ($$\overline{x }$$

x
¯

=3.93, SD = 0.63), including policy and legislation, and socio-political context had the lowest mean scores indicating they may likely be barriers to sustainability. Linear regression analyses revealed no statistically significant associations between examined factors and ECEC service characteristics. There was a statistically significant association between the number of years services delivered their interventions and the Characteristics of the Intervention domain (p = 0.035) suggesting that this domain may influence sustainability of programs.

Conclusions

This study suggests that factors related to the Processes and Outer Contextual Factors domains had the lowest scores and as such, strategies to support the sustainability of physical activity and nutrition interventions implemented in ECEC settings may need to consider how to best address these factors.
Meta-analysis of MitraClip and PASCAL for transcatheter mitral edge-to-edge repair
Authors: Balata Mahmoud , Gbreel Mohamed Ibrahim , Elkasaby Mohamed Hamouda , Hassan Marwa , Becher Marc Ulrich
Published: January 2025

Background

Despite the promising results of both MitraClip and PASCAL systems for the treatment of mitral regurgitation (MR), there is limited data on the comparison of both systems regarding their safety and efficacy. We aim to compare both systems for MR.

Materials and methods

Five databases were searched until October 2024. Original studies were only included and critically appraised using an adapted version of the Newcastle–Ottawa scale for observational cohort studies and the Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized controlled trials. The risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) with their corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

From the database search, we identified 197 studies, of which eight studies comprising 1,612 patients who underwent transcatheter edge-to-edge repair with either MitraClip or PASCAL were included in this meta-analysis. The statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the two devices in achieving a two-grade reduction in MR severity (RR = 0.95; 95% CI: [0.86, 1.04]; p = 0.28), one-grade reduction (RR = 1.17; 95% CI: [0.92, 1.49]; p = 0.19), or in cases with no improvement (RR = 1.23; 95% CI: [0.79, 1.90]; p = 0.36). Additionally, there were no significant differences between PASCAL and MitraClip regarding procedure time, procedural success, reinterventions, or all-cause mortality. However, PASCAL trended towards better residual MR reduction, although this was accompanied by moderate heterogeneity. Both devices demonstrated comparable safety profiles and were effective in reducing MR and improving cardiac function.

Conclusion

MitraClip and PASCAL devices showed comparable safety profiles and procedural success rates. However, the analysis did not reveal a statistically significant difference between the two devices in reducing the severity of MR.