bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult’s Lived Experience Using the Insulin-Only Bionic Pancreas
Authors: Garza Kimberly P. , Howard Kelsey R. , Feldman Marissa , Weissberg-Benchell Jill
Published: August 2024

Background:

The purpose of this study was to assess adults’ perspectives after using the insulin-only Bionic Pancreas (BP) during a 13-week pivotal trial. Automated insulin delivery (AID) systems show promise in improving glycemic outcomes and reducing disease burden for those with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D). Understanding the lived experience of those using the BP can help to inform education and uptake of AID devices.

Methods:

Adults ages 19 to 75 (n = 40) participated in age-specific focus groups (19-25, 26-40, 41-64, and 65+) exploring their experiences, thoughts, and feelings about using the BP. Three authors analyzed the focus group data using a hybrid thematic approach.

Results:

Qualitative analysis of focus groups revealed 14 sub-themes falling into four major themes (diabetes burden, managing glucose levels, daily routine, and user experience). Although participants’ overall experience was positive, some reported struggles related to managing out-of-range glucose levels and challenges with the system responding to unique meal schedules and exercise regimens.

Conclusion:

This study captures patient perspectives regarding their experiences with a new AID system. Patient voice can inform device development and educational approaches for people with T1D. Identifying which patients may benefit the most from wearing this system may facilitate patient/clinician discussions regarding insulin delivery systems that best meet their individualized needs and expectations that may support device uptake and continued use.
Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anti-Bacterial Activities of Artemisia vulgaris L. Essential Oil in Vietnam
Authors: Trinh Pham Thi Nhat , Tien Le Xuan , Danh Tong Thanh , Le Hang Dang Thi , Hoa Nguyen Van , Yen To Thi Bao , Dung Le Tien
Published: August 2024

Background

Artemisia vulgaris L. (AV) is a beneficial herb with therapeutic properties. This work aims to evaluate the compositions and bioactivity of essential oil from AV grown in Tiengiang, Vietnam.

Methods

The essential oils (AVEO) were extracted by hydrodistillation (HD), and the headspace volatiles (HS) were collected using the static headspace technique. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) was used to examine the compositions of oils in detail. The agar well-diffusion technique was used to conduct the antibacterial test. Multi-concentration dilution method was used for minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) determination. The cell viability was determined by the MTT method. Nitric oxide and TNF-α in RAW 264.7 were analyzed by Griess reagent or ELISA as described by the manufacturer. In addition, DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power assay were used to determine the antioxidant activity.

Results

The HD method yielded 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, β -caryophyllene, borneol, camphor, and δ-elemene were the most abundant components. In contrast, the HS approach produced the primary constituents being camphor, 2-methylbutanal, 1,8-cineole, and camphene. The HD showed antibacterial activities against E.coli, S.typhimurium, S .aureus, P.aeruginosa, and S.mutans, and inhibited the production of NO, TNF-α in lipopolysaccharide-induced RAW264.7. Furthermore, the HD indicated moderate antioxidant activity. A hierarchical cluster analysis of essential oils from 22 regions shows that mugwort oils in Tiengiang, Vietnam, have a high level of δ-elemene (more than 5%), which is not common in oils from other species. The study's findings enhance our comprehension of the chemical components and chemical variety of mugwort oil across different sites and to help in the identification of the predominant species suitable for extracting essential oils for different purposes within the Artemisia vulgaris L. species.

Conclusion

These findings collectively suggest that essential oils derived from A. vulgaris have a range of potential therapeutic uses.
Current Advances in Tissue Culture of Vietnamese Ginseng (Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv)
Authors: Nhung Nguyen Thanh , Trung Khuat Huu , Khanh Tran Dang
Published: August 2024

Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv., commonly known as Vietnamese ginseng or Ngoc Linh ginseng, is a notable species within the Panax genus. In Vietnamese traditional medicine, Ngoc Linh ginseng is revered as a ‘miraculous medicine,’ famed for enhancing physical strength and treating a variety of health conditions. The application of in vitro tissue culture techniques to medicinal plants is acknowledged as a strategic method for generating bioactive specialized metabolites. This comprehensive review highlights the properties of Vietnamese ginseng and emphasizes recent progress in various in vitro tissue culture techniques, including callus induction, somatic embryo induction, cell cultivation in suspension, hairy root cultivation, and adventitious root cultivation. Moreover, the review addresses the challenges and potential future developments related to these techniques. The exploration of these in vitro practices has laid the groundwork for the commercial exploitation of Vietnamese ginseng, facilitating the swift and effective production of both ginseng biomass and its bioactive compounds.
Exploring Visual Features of Ecological Design in Private Housing: Search for Visual Principles
Authors: Geng Zhirong
Published: August 2024

Background: Changing consumer attitudes toward the natural environment are reflected in an increase in demand for environmental design of private houses, which requires the definition of some general principles of such design, particularly graphic design. Purpose: The purpose of the study is to highlight and determine the fundamental features of the visual component of the ecological design of private houses. Objectives: Present the characteristics of the countries of the world in accordance with the application of eco-design and sponsorship of green construction; identify visual principles that characterize the ecological design of private houses. Methods: The study is based on mixed qualitative analysis. The authors of the study used statistical from statista.com concerning the number of LEED certified projects during 2018 to 2021. Statistical indicators of countries is used to select houses for research, an assessment of a group of experts of photo-interview methods is used to determine the main trends in visual environmental design. Results: It was possible to systematize the world experience in designing private homes using an ecological approach. They categorized the basic principles of visualization of functional-planning, technological and artistic-esthetic solutions in the interior design of a private residential building; compliance with appropriate esthetics; functional design solutions of the interior space, modularity, compactness, responsible and rational architecture; and interior design, preferably with the possibility of moving housing to another place in case of forced relocation. Conclusions: The results obtained can be used in the framework of theoretical and practical design of private residential buildings.
COVID-19 vaccine-associated vasculitis: A systematic review
Authors: Abuhammad Aseel , Albandak Maram , Ayyad Mohammed , Refayeh Eman , Qawasma Basema , Hour Shaima , Abu Thraiee Yazan , Sowaity Zaid A , Dukmak Osama , Jobran Afnan W. M. , Alamleh Laith
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

Post-COVID-19 vaccine-associated vasculitis stands as one of the most serious side effects attributed to COVID-19 vaccines. This complication encompasses diverse manifestations which vary in presentation and severity. Moreover, it can impact patients across all age groups, with a notably elevated incidence in the elderly. This systematic review seeks to review and evaluate the spectrum of vasculitis manifestations linked to COVID-19 vaccination.

Methods:

A systematic review of the literature was done by searching through PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus up to October 2022. Articles including data about sex, age at diagnosis, vasculitis clinical manifestations, type of vaccination, most commonly used investigations, comorbid medical conditions, treatments, and clinical outcomes were included in the final analysis. Furthermore, vasculitis flare-ups post-vaccination were considered part of this review.

Results:

A total number of 117 studies describing 158 patients developing vasculitis following COVID-19 vaccination were included in the final analysis. Among the patients who developed vasculitis, the most administered type of vaccination was the mRNA vaccine subtype ( n = 103), followed by the viral vector vaccines ( n = 42) and inactivated viral vaccines ( n = 10). On the other hand, about 38% of vasculitis-related symptoms occurred after the administration of the first dose of the vaccine and 37% occurred after taking the second dose. The skin (60.7%) and the kidneys (27.8%) were the most affected organs and complete remission was achieved in 111 patients (70%), while partial remission occurred in 11% of the patient population.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 vaccine-induced vasculitis is a rare occurrence associated with COVID-19 vaccines. It generally presents a favorable prognosis and outcomes for the vast majority of patients, ultimately leading to full remission within days. This review emphasizes the notion that the advantages of COVID-19 vaccines outweigh the potential risks, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems.
Radio frequency identification technology; A method of analysis of falsified pharmaceutical products: Literature review
Authors: Worku Minichil Chanie , Feleke Melaku Getahun , Denekew Tewodros , Anagaw Yeniewa Kerie
Published: August 2024

Quality has been a concern of the World Health Organization since its inception and is defined as fitness for use. Since our ancestors began trading several millennia ago, Falsified Pharmaceutical Products has been a recurring problem and still threatens economic stability and public health. Its definition various from country to country and according to World Health Organization, 2017, it is ‘a product that is deliberately and fraudulently mislabelled with respect to identity and/or source’. The implementation of anti-falsified nanomaterial technologies is the prominent preventive measure to track and/or detect Falsified Pharmaceutical Products. Software and hardware companies had made encouraging progress towards implementing Radio Frequency Identification devices for ensuring the authenticity of pharmaceutical products. The purpose of the review was to critically appraise Radio Frequency Identification devices technology for the purpose of track and trace Falsified Pharmaceutical Products circulating in the market. Different search engines such as Google Scholar, Science Direct and PubMed were applied and mesh terms and keywords were searched. Different guides and related books were investigated in addition to the articles. Radio Frequency Identification devices technology is a compact electronic device that contains a small chip and reader with antenna that enables wireless transmission of identity of pharmaceutical products. The authenticated Radio Frequency Identification devices model is used for pharmaceutical products’ authentication from origin of pharmaceutical industry to the pharmacy at any point along the chain of the distribution. Popular pharmaceutical products, such as OxyContin and Sildenafil Citrate, which are particular targets of falsification have mandated the use of Radio Frequency Identification devices technology.
Medicare skilled nursing facilities’ occupancy and payer source: The moderating role of financial performance
Authors: Kim Hyunmin , Mahmood Asos , Chang Cyril F. , Dobalian Aram
Published: August 2024

Objectives:

While extensive research has focused on patient outcomes in skilled nursing facilities, a critical gap remains in understanding factors influencing their managerial performance, particularly occupancy rates. This study examines the occupancy rates of skilled nursing facilities and assesses the significance of two important drivers of managerial performance that have not received sufficient attention—the influence of payer mix and total profit margin. Specifically, we focused on the role played by a nursing home’s financial performance (as assessed by profit margin) in influencing the relationship between payer mix and occupancy rate among skilled nursing facilities.

Methods:

Data were extracted from the 2019 to 2020 Joint Annual Report of Nursing Homes for a sample of 612 skilled nursing facilities in Tennessee, USA. Regression analysis was performed by fitting a generalized estimating equation of occupancy rate.

Results:

Compared to skilled nursing facilities in the lowest quartile of profit margin, for example, those in the highest quartile had approximately 18 percentage points higher occupancy rates per unit increase in resident days of care covered by traditional Medicare (β = 0.18, p = 0.0028). Similarly, skilled nursing facilities in the second highest quartile of profit margin had a higher occupancy rate by approximately 23 percentage points per unit increase in Medicare Advantage (β = 0.23, p = 0.0375) when compared to those in the lowest quartile of profit margin.

Conclusions:

Skilled nursing facilities with stronger financial performance generally have higher occupancy rates, particularly notable in relation to an upswing in payer sources such as traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage, when compared to skilled nursing facilities with weaker profitability. Given the increasingly larger role of Medicare in long-term care funding, policymakers and nursing home managers may find it useful to consider our findings when evaluating opportunities to enhance managerial performance of skilled nursing facilities.
Surgical stabilisation of a traumatic cervical subluxation in a cat
Authors: Gugliotta Lisa , Cabon Quentin
Published: August 2024

Case summary

A 2-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented with tetraparesis after being involved in a road traffic accident. Survey spine radiographs revealed a C2–C3 cervical subluxation, which was confirmed by a CT scan. Surgical stabilisation was performed using screws and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) via a ventral approach. A postoperative CT scan demonstrated correct implant positioning and good reduction of the subluxation. After surgery, the cat rapidly recovered to a neurologically normal status.

Relevance and novel information

Trauma-induced cervical subluxation is an uncommon occurrence in cats but should be considered in the differential diagnosis. This report describes the surgical management of a C2–C3 cervical subluxation in a cat using screws and PMMA. This is the first case report of a surgically treated subaxial cervical subluxation in a cat.
Exploring online and offline social experiences and interaction patterns of young adults with psychosis with the social media and internet social engagement questionnaire: Analyses and future directions
Authors: Tran Ivy , Tang Sunny X , Baumel Amit , Moore Tyler , Berretta Sarah , Behbehani Leily , Birnbaum Michael L
Published: August 2024

Objective

Social interactions and experiences are increasingly occurring online, including for young adults with psychosis. Healthy social interactions and experiences are widely recognized as a critical component of social recovery, yet research thus far has focused predominantly on offline interactions with limited understanding of these interactions online. We developed the Social Media and Internet sociaL Engagement (SMILE) questionnaire to assess the type, frequency, and nature of online social interactions and experiences among young adults with early psychosis to better assess online social activity and ultimately support personalized interventions.

Methods

Participants ( N = 49) completed the SMILE questionnaire which asked about online platforms used, frequency of use, and if positive and negative experiences were more likely to happen online or offline. Participants completed additional self-report measures of victimization, positive psychotic symptoms, social functioning, and demographics. Exploratory factor analysis and correlations between identified factors and clinical measures of interest were completed.

Results

Exploratory factor analysis revealed three factors: positive engagement, victimization, and internalizing experiences. Most participants (6%–37%) experienced positive engagement offline. Victimization occurred equally online and offline (8%–27% and 4%–24%, respectively). Most participants (37%–51%) endorsed internalizing experiences as occurring equally offline and online, but approximately a third of participants reported internalizing experiences more frequently offline (20%–35%). Victimization was moderately (r = 0.34) correlated with overall online social experiences, suggesting more online time may increase the likelihood of victimization. Age was inversely related to the frequency of overall online social experiences.

Conclusion

Young adults with early psychosis experience positive and negative social experiences online and offline. New scales and measures to comprehensively assess the nature and function of online social interactions and experiences are needed.
Assessing the quality of breast cancer-related videos on TikTok: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Qu Yang , Lian Jie , Pan Bo , Zhang Jiahui , Zhou Yidong
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Breast cancer, the most common cancer in women globally, highlights the need for patient education. Despite many breast cancer discussions on TikTok, their scientific evaluation is lacking. Our study seeks to assess the content quality and accuracy of popular TikTok videos on breast cancer, to improve the dissemination of health knowledge.

Methods

On August 22, 2023, we collected the top 100 trending videos from TikTok's Chinese version using “breast cancer/breast nodule” as keywords. We noted their length, TikTok duration, likes, comments, favorites, reposts, uploader types, and topics. Four assessment tools were used: Goobie's six questions, the Patient Educational Material Assessment Tool (PEMAT), the Video Information and Quality Index (VIQI), and the Global Quality Score (GQS). These instruments evaluate videos based on content, informational integrity, and overall quality.

Results

Among the 100 videos, content quality was low with Goobie's questions mostly scoring 0, except for management at 1.0 (QR 1.0). PEMAT scores were moderate: 54.1 (QR 1.6) for sum, 47.0 (QR 18.8) for PEMAT-A, and 52.3 (QR 11.7) for PEMAT-U. Regarding the quality of information, the VIQI (sum) median was 14.1 (QR 0.2). Additionally, the median GQS score was 3.5 (QR 0.1). Medical professionals’ videos focused on breast cancer stages, while patient videos centered on personal experiences. Patient videos had lower content and overall quality compared to those by medical professionals (PEMAT, GQS: P < 0.001, P = 0.004) but received more comments, indicating higher engagement (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

TikTok's breast cancer content shows educational potential, but while informational quality is moderate, content quality needs improvement. Videos by medical professionals are of higher quality. We recommend increased involvement of healthcare professionals on TikTok to enhance content quality. Non-medical users should share verified information, and TikTok should strengthen its content vetting. Users must scrutinize the credibility of health information on social platforms.
The Effects of a School-Based Lovingkindness Meditation Practice on Students’ Emotional Intelligence and Hope
Authors: Niles Jennifer K. , Mullen Patrick R. , Gutierrez Daniel , Dukes Allison
Published: August 2024

Our study explored the impact of a 4-week, daily lovingkindness meditation practice on students’ levels of hope and emotional intelligence. Our findings indicated no statistically significant difference between treatment and waitlist control groups in students’ reported levels of hope and emotional intelligence. However, when students’ frequency of practice was included in the model, the results showed that the between-subjects effects were significant. We offer implications for school counseling practice and future research.
Entrepreneurial Empowerment through the Internet: A Qualitative Research on Chinese Women Entrepreneurs
Authors: Wan Wei , Wu Hong , Hu Hui-Ling
Published: August 2024

This qualitative study sought to explore how women entrepreneurs leverage the Internet to empower their entrepreneurial activities in the Chinese context. To this end, we first conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 women entrepreneurs, and then analyzed their transcripts by following the principles of thematic analysis from grounded theory method. After the three-phase coding procedure, we developed a conceptual model of Internet use of women entrepreneurs which were composed of Internet marketing, Internet purchasing, and Internet learning. The current study provides the first evidence for the multidimensional construct of Internet use with a sample of women entrepreneurs in China. A hypothesis concerning the relationship between Internet use and women entrepreneurial performance is proposed for future investigation. Implications for women entrepreneurs and policymakers are discussed.
Happiness among university students and associated factors: A cross-sectional study in Vietnam
Authors: Tien Nam Pham , Thanh Tung Pham , Phuong Linh Bui , Hanh Dung Nguyen , Van Minh Hoang
Published: August 2024

Background:

Happiness is among the fundamental concepts in mental health that have an impact on different aspects of university students. In this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of happiness among university students in Vietnam and to identify the factors influencing happiness.

Design and methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on undergraduate students in 8 universities and colleges in Hanoi, Vietnam. Happiness was measured using the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), and we used imputed Poisson regression to evaluate associations between happiness and associated factors.

Results:

Among 9120 participants students (95.1% response rate), the prevalence of “happier group” was 80.9% (95% CI: 80.1–81.7). In the multivariable regression models, factors associated with being “less happy” on SHS were the perceived financial burden, year in university, academic motivation profile, and self-reported depression and anxiety.

Conclusions:

University healthcare providers should pay attention to these associated factors while designing mental health care programs to promote happiness among university students.
Impact of combining dental composite brushes with modeling resins on the color stability and topographic features of composites
Authors: Balhaddad Abdulrahman A , Alharamlah Faisal , Aldossary Alhanoof , Almutairi Wejdan , Alshehri Turki , Melo Mary Anne S , Al-Zain Afnan O , Ismail Eman H
Published: August 2024

This study explores the effect of using dental brushes with or without metacrylate-based modeling resins on long-term color stability and surface topographies of resin-based composites. This study examined the effects of two variables: (1) the type of brush used (Art brush, Micro-brush, or Mylar strip) and (2) the application of a modeling resin (applied or not applied). The specimens were artificially aged through 10,000 cycles of thermocycling and subsequently immersed in coffee for 30 days. Measurements of color and surface roughness were taken at baseline and after the aging, using a non-contact profilometer for surface roughness and a spectrophotometer for color. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and one-way ANOVA. Resin-based composites smoothed with dental brushes or micro brushes without modeling resins exhibited lower color change (ΔE) than other groups. Paired t-tests revealed significant differences in average surface roughness (Ra) and valley depth (Rv) for each surfacing technique before and after aging ( p ⩽ 0.01). The root means square average of the profile heights (Rq) significantly increased in the control and micro-brush groups ( p ⩽ 0.01). In conclusion, the use of brushes in resin-based composites placement does not increase the susceptibility to staining. Instead, the inclusion of resin modeling contributes to discoloration over time.
Postoperative Complications of Direct-to-Implant and Two-Staged Breast Reconstruction: A Stratified Analysis
Authors: Bryan Jaimie L. , Ockerman Kyle M. , Spiguel Lisa R. , Cox Elizabeth A. , Han Sabrina H. , Trieu Nhan , Blondin Fernandez Mario , Heath Frederick , Sorice-Virk Sarah
Published: August 2024

Background: Post-mastectomy implant-based reconstruction can be performed as direct-to-implant (DTI) or two-staged reconstruction (TSR). Rigorous studies have explored postoperative complications between TSR or DTI, yet few have stratified outcomes by relevant populations, pre-operative findings, mastectomy characteristics, or plane of implant placement. We sought to compare the outcomes between these cohorts at our institution. Methods: All patients who underwent skin- or nipple-sparing mastectomy followed by DTI or TSR from 2011 to 2021 at a large academic medical center were included. Data included demographics, ADM use, mastectomy weight, plane of implant placement, and postoperative complications. Results: 295 patients were included. 271 (91.9%) received TSR, and 24 (8.1%) underwent DTI. Compared to TSR, DTI had a higher rate of NAC necrosis ( P = .007) and dehiscence ( P = .016). There was no difference in rate of other complications. Regardless of procedure, higher BMI ( P = .002), higher grade ptosis ( P = .01), and larger mastectomy weights ( P = .022) were associated with increased risk of complication. Pre-pectoral placement was not associated with risk of NAC or mastectomy skin necrosis. Prior tobacco use was associated with higher risk of infection ( P = .036) and dehiscence ( P = .025). Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with increased risk of capsular contracture( P = .009). Conclusions: Our study suggests that TSR may be preferred to minimize risk of NAC necrosis and wound dehiscence, especially in high-risk patients. Pre-pectoral placement did not significantly affect risk of mastectomy or NAC necrosis and should be considered in all cases to minimize morbidity. Higher risk conditions for alloplastic reconstruction include higher degrees of ptosis, history of tobacco use, and higher BMIs.
Pitch-Tracking Metrics as a Predictor of Future Shoulder and Elbow Injuries in Major League Baseball Pitchers: A Machine-Learning and Game-Theory Based Analysis
Authors: Oeding Jacob F. , Boos Alexander M. , Kalk Josh R. , Sorenson Dane , Verhooven F. Martijn , Moatshe Gilbert , Camp Christopher L.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Understanding interactions between multiple risk factors for shoulder and elbow injuries in Major League Baseball (MLB) pitchers is important to identify potential avenues by which risk can be reduced while minimizing impact on player performance.

Purpose:

To apply a novel game theory–based approach to develop a machine-learning model predictive of next-season shoulder and elbow injuries in MLB pitchers and use this model to understand interdependencies and interaction effects between the most important risk factors.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Pitcher demographics, workload measures, pitch-tracking metrics, and injury data between 2017 and 2022 were used to construct a database of MLB pitcher-years, where each item in the database corresponded to a pitcher's information and metrics for that year. An extreme gradient boosting machine-learning model was trained to predict next-season shoulder and elbow injuries utilizing Shapley additive explanation values to quantify feature importance as well as interdependencies and interaction effects between predictive variables.

Results:

A total of 3808 pitcher-years were included in this analysis; 606 (15.9%) of these involved a shoulder or elbow injury resulting in placement on the MLB injured list. Of the >65 candidate features (including workload, demographic, and pitch-tracking metrics), the most important contributors to predicting shoulder/elbow injury were increased: pitch velocity (all pitch types), utilization of sliders (SLs), fastball (FB) spin rate, FB horizontal movement, and player age. The strongest game theory interaction effects were that higher FB velocity did not alter a younger pitcher's predicted risk of shoulder/elbow injury versus older pitchers, risk of shoulder/elbow injury increased with the number of high-velocity pitches thrown (regardless of pitch type and in an additive fashion), and FB velocity <95 mph (<152.9 kph) demonstrated strong negative interaction effects with higher SL percentage, suggesting that the overall predicted risk of injury for pitchers throwing a high number of SLs could be attenuated by lower FB velocity.

Conclusion:

Pitch-tracking metrics were substantially more predictive of future injury than player demographics and workload metrics. There were many significant game theory interdependencies of injury risk. Notably, the increased risk of injury that was conferred by throwing with a high velocity was even further magnified if the pitchers were also older, threw a high percentage of SLs, and/or threw a greater number of pitches.
The Impact of Trained Conditions on the Generalization of Learning Gains Following Voice Discrimination Training
Authors: Zaltz Yael
Published: August 2024

Auditory training can lead to notable enhancements in specific tasks, but whether these improvements generalize to untrained tasks like speech-in-noise (SIN) recognition remains uncertain. This study examined how training conditions affect generalization. Fifty-five young adults were divided into "Trained-in-Quiet" ( n = 15), "Trained-in-Noise" ( n = 20), and "Control" ( n = 20) groups. Participants completed two sessions. The first session involved an assessment of SIN recognition and voice discrimination (VD) with word or sentence stimuli, employing combined fundamental frequency (F0) + formant frequencies voice cues. Subsequently, only the trained groups proceeded to an interleaved training phase, encompassing six VD blocks with sentence stimuli, utilizing either F0-only or formant-only cues. The second session replicated the interleaved training for the trained groups, followed by a second assessment conducted by all three groups, identical to the first session. Results showed significant improvements in the trained task regardless of training conditions. However, VD training with a single cue did not enhance VD with both cues beyond control group improvements, suggesting limited generalization. Notably, the Trained-in-Noise group exhibited the most significant SIN recognition improvements posttraining, implying generalization across tasks that share similar acoustic conditions. Overall, findings suggest training conditions impact generalization by influencing processing levels associated with the trained task. Training in noisy conditions may prompt higher auditory and/or cognitive processing than training in quiet, potentially extending skills to tasks involving challenging listening conditions, such as SIN recognition. These insights hold significant theoretical and clinical implications, potentially advancing the development of effective auditory training protocols.
Onset of Type I Diabetes Followed by Scleroderma Syndrome in a Child After the COVID-19: A Case Report
Authors: Burlaka Ievgeniia , Mityuryayeva Inga , Sevastiian Olena , Kachula Ivanna
Published: August 2024

Morphea, is a chronic inflammatory disease of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Research has indicated a connection between morphea and Type I Diabetes (T1D). COVID-19 can cause autoimmune diseases like scleroderma, T1D, systemic lupus erythematosus, and others. A 12-year-old girl with type 1 diabetes who was on insulin therapy was brought into the clinic for a metabolic evaluation. The patient had induration, skin hardness, and cutaneous erythema upon inspection. The onset of T1D was following a mild COVID-19 infection. Signs of morphea merged 3 months after the onset of T1D. Known as “long-term COVID,” this sickness phase that follows the acute stage of COVID-19 is most likely the result of autoimmune activation. As this patient under evaluation reveals, COVID-19 has been demonstrated in the literature to cause the production of autoantibodies and to either cause or worsen autoimmune disorders in people who have a genetic susceptibility.
A Journey Through Grief: Experiences of Loss Among Patients With Long COVID
Authors: McAlearney Ann Scheck , Eiterman Leanna P , Mayers Elizabeth , Eramo Jennifer L , MacEwan Sarah R
Published: August 2024

Long COVID is a growing health concern with data continuing to emerge about the psychosocial consequences of this new chronic condition. We aimed to improve understanding of the experiences of patients with Long COVID, focusing on emotional impacts arising from experiences of loss and grief caused by persistent physical symptoms and changes in lifestyle and social support. Patients (n = 21) were recruited August to September 2022 from a post-COVID recovery clinic to participate in semistructured interviews. We found that Long COVID patients (1) reported experiencing loss across multiple domains including loss of physical health, mental health, social support and connections, roles in their families, and self-identities, and (2) described experiences of grief that mirrored the 5 stages of grief in the Kubler-Ross model: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and for some, acceptance. Our findings highlight the importance of evaluating the experiences of loss and grief among Long COVID patients as well as support systems for this patient population. Providers may be encouraged to incorporate mental health and bereavement support resources to address critical needs of Long COVID patients.
The territorial taboo: Explaining the public aversion to negotiations in the Ukraine war support coalition
Authors: Toal Gerard
Published: August 2024

Despite severe and mounting war costs, many in the international coalition supporting Ukraine have publicly expressed strong aversion to negotiations with Russia, and Ukrainian territorial concessions, to end the war. What explains this aversion to negotiations and seeming taboo on territorial concessions? This commentary, drawing particularly on US policy debate, suggests that proclaimed sacred values helps explain this disposition. Ukraine’s war support network is a discursive coalition bound together by three shared narratives about the war and universal values. Stories about international law and territorial integrity, about war crimes and genocide, and about freedom and democracy, render talk about territorial concessions to Russia, as the aggressor state, taboo in different ways. Psychological factors, from commitment problems to hawkish biases, bolster this taboo. The Gaza war, however, has exposed Western sacred values as geographically limited. The territorial taboo disguises tragic trade-offs and the enormous costs of Ukraine’s fight, burdening the country with an unwinnable mission. Any settlement of the war is likely to see the territorial taboo abandoned, in de facto if not de jure terms.
Honoring pasts, escaping presents, and dwelling in futures: The Palestine land society village reconstruction competition
Authors: Joudah Nour
Published: August 2024

Palestinian architecture students tell a story of dwelling in the future. In the process of creating their designs to reconstruct paused lifeworlds, they show just how little bifurcation there is between past and present. In this article, I introduce the dwelling-to-(re)build perspective, which reflects a unique reality of displacement and dispossession: the spaces Indigenous communities map and dwell is not confined to this moment. For these students and this project of village reconstruction, dwelling space is not only a momentary expression of houses and lands emptied in a distant past, but a vision of rebuilding and reviving those spaces and the interactions that once filled them. These village designs, the conversations involved in producing them, and their presentation to the Palestinian community is not an abstract exercise. They are cartographic practices that insist on a decolonial future, re-dotting the map not with historic places but with future histories.
The moral and strategic clarity of supporting Ukraine’s self-defense: Why accepting Russian colonialism should remain a taboo
Authors: Oksamytna Kseniya
Published: August 2024

In response to Toal’s article “The Territorial Taboo: Explaining the Public Aversion to Negotiations in the Ukraine War Support Coalition”, I argue that the alleged silencing of those who push for Ukraine’s territorial concessions to Russia is an exaggerated problem. The reason why such voices are not gaining traction is because, as of summer 2024, neither Ukraine nor key European states had a majority in favor of territorial concessions. This is reassuring: it means that there is little appetite for endorsing Russian colonialism and abandoning Ukrainians on the occupied territories to Russian terror in the hope of an illusory “peace”. In contrast to the majority opinion, Toal calls for sacrificing (a part of) Ukraine in order to freeze the conflict and reduce great power tensions. To make such a colonial proposition seem palatable, Toal tries to shift the blame for the continuation of the war from Russia, the aggressor, to Ukraine, the victim. In reality, Ukrainians want peace, just not on Russia’s terms. Any settlement that does not involve the restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity is unjust and likely unsustainable. It would give Russia an opportunity to re-arm, extracting resources from the newly occupied Ukrainian territories. Russian officials showed no intention of abiding by any potential agreements with Ukraine, reiterating their goal of destroying the Ukrainian nation and state. Since aggression against Ukraine did not attract widespread opposition within Russia and garnered quite a few enthusiastic supporters, a change in Russian policy seemed improbable as of summer 2024. The continuation of armed resistance against the Russian invasion is Ukraine’s only choice.
Exploring the impacts of automation in the mining industry: A systematic review using natural language processing
Authors: Codoceo-Contreras Loreto , Rybak Nikodem , Hassall Maureen
Published: August 2024

Autonomous and smart mines are predicted to become more prevalent. Automation has undeniable benefits in the mining industry, especially in terms of safety. However, automation has also led to unforeseen implications for individuals, organisations and communities. This study undertakes a systematic review of research on the impacts of automation in the mining context. A total of 94 documents that dealt with issues related to humans, safety and communities were found. Documents were analysed using both manual and natural language processing techniques. The review revealed the main concerns the industry must face for the successful implementation of automation, with interoperability and inadequate wireless networks identified as the most significant challenges. Key themes for individuals were workload, cognitive load, communication, acceptance of automation and trust. Task changes and culture were the most predominant issues at the organisational level. Impacts on employment and indigenous communities were highlighted at the community level. The emergence of advanced technologies and interoperability issues have implications for implementing of smart or intelligent mining. Human factors, precisely situation awareness and workload, have far-reaching consequences for safety and productivity because automation is becoming more complex. Moreover, not quantifying community impacts affects how companies can meet their corporate social responsibility commitments.
Exploring creativity in BMX trail construction—Stack, slap, repeat
Authors: Camilleri Dave
Published: August 2024

This paper delves into the realm of BMX to investigate the connection between creativity and dirt jump/trails construction. By exploring the perspectives of experienced BMX trail builders, the research reveals that creativity in BMX trail building contains inherent uncertainties associated with working in a natural environment, using tools, and collaborating with others. BMX trail building requires a harmonious blend of form and function making it a prime candidate for understanding hands-on creativity. This paper explores the expert coordination of materials, tools, and the craft, concurrently limiting and augmenting the creative process. By examining the nuances of BMX dirt jump and trail building, this paper advances a novel perspective on creativity and offers insights into a seldom represented creative practice.
New insights into the biology of T-cell lymphomas
Authors: Iqbal Javeed , Inghirami Giorgio , Chan Wing C.
Published: August 2024

Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) encompass a heterogeneous group of postthymic T-cell lymphomas with >30 distinct subtypes associated with varied clinicopathological features. Unfortunately, the overall survival of the major PTCL subtypes is dismal and has not improved for decades; thus, there is an urgent unmet clinical need to improve diagnosis, therapies, and clinical outcomes. The diagnosis is often challenging, requiring a combinatorial evaluation of clinical, morphologic, and immunophenotypic features. PTCL pathobiology is difficult to investigate due to enormous intertumor and intratumor heterogeneity, limited tissue availability, and the paucity of authentic T-cell lymphoma cell lines or genetically faithful animal models. The application of transcriptomic profiling and genomic sequencing has markedly accelerated the discovery of new biomarkers, molecular signatures, and genetic lesions, and some of the discoveries have been included in the revised World Health Organization or International Consensus Classification. Genome-wide investigations have revealed the mutational landscape and transcriptomic profiles of PTCL entities, defined the cell of origin as a major determinant of T-cell lymphoma biology, and allowed for the refinement of biologically and clinically meaningful entities for precision therapy. In this review, we prioritize the discussion on common nodal PTCL subtypes together with 2 virus-associated T-cell and natural killer cell lymphomas. We succinctly review normal T-cell development, differentiation, and T-cell receptor signaling as they relate to PTCL pathogenesis and biology. This review will facilitate a better biological understanding of the different PTCL entities and their stratification for additional studies and target-directed clinical trials.
IL1RL1variant may affect the response to type 2 biologics in patients with severe asthma
Authors: Nishi Kenta , Matsumoto Hisako , Sunadome Hironobu , Nagasaki Tadao , Oguma Tsuyoshi , Tashima Noriyuki , Hayashi Yusuke , Terada Satoru , Morita Kyohei , Yoshimura Chie , Nishizaka Yasuo , Sano Akiko , Iwanaga Takashi , Sano Hiroyuki , Haraguchi Ryuta , Tohda Yuji , Kawaguchi Takahisa , Matsuda Fumihiko , Hirai Toyohiro
Published: August 2024

Background

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease with variable response to treatment. Genetic backgrounds are involved in the severity of type 2 asthma, but their effects on responses to biologics remain unknown. This study aimed to clarify the role of genetic factors in response to biologics in patients with severe asthma.

Methods

Adults with severe asthma receiving biologics were enrolled in this multicentre, observational, real-world study. The responses to biologics were evaluated using Physicians’ Global Evaluation of Treatment Effectiveness (GETE). Optimal biologic for each patient was also determined based on the best GETE score for the biologic used or currently used biologic. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (IL1RL1, rs1420101;IL4RA, rs8832; andTSLPrs1837253) were examined.

Results

Among the 113 patients analysed, 53 (46.9%) had an excellent GETE score for at least one biologic. These patients with an excellent GETE score for at least one biologic, particularly for benralizumab, had the risk genotype of rs1420101 more frequently than the remaining patients, independent of the clinical demographics. Regarding the optimal biologic for each patient, anti-IL-5 drugs were optimal for patients with the rs1420101 TT or rs8832 GG genotype. Furthermore, dupilumab was similarly effective, regardless of the risk genotypes examined in this study.

Conclusion

IL1RL1rs1420101 TT genotype and/orIL4RArs8832 GG genotype may predict an excellent or optimal response to biologic therapy in each patient, particularly to anti-interleukin-5 targeted therapy. The elucidation of genetic predisposition may improve the management of severe asthma in the era of biologics.
Sleep apnoea, cognition and aspirin's effects in healthy older people: an ASPREE substudy
Authors: Ward Stephanie A. , Woods Robyn L. , Naughton Matthew T. , Wolfe Rory , Gasevic Danijela , Hamilton Garun S. , Abhayaratna Walter P. , Webb Katherine , O'Donoghue Fergal J. , Stocks Nigel , Trevaks Ruth E. , Fitzgerald Sharyn M. , Orchard Suzanne G. , Reid Christopher M. , Storey Elsdon
Published: August 2024

Importance

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) may increase the risk of dementia; however, studies have reported variable findings. We investigated if undiagnosed OSA in healthy older adults is associated with cognitive decline, and whether low-dose aspirin could attenuate this.

Methods

This was conducted as a substudy of the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly study. Participants were aged 70 years and above, free of dementia, cardiovascular disease and known OSA. A limited channel home sleep study calculated the oxygen desaturation index. Participants were randomised to daily aspirin 100 mg or placebo.Outcomes were the association of OSA, and the interaction of aspirin with OSA, with change in the Modified Mini-Mental State examination (3MS), a test of global cognition, over 3 years. Secondary outcomes were changes in domain-specific cognitive tests. Analyses were adjusted for relevant demographic, lifestyle and cardiometabolic factors.

Results

Mild OSA, detected in 630 (49.0%) participants, and moderate/severe OSA, detected in 405 (31.5%) participants, were associated with lower 3MS scores over 3 years (mild OSA: β−0.58, 95% CI −1.15 to −0.00, p=0.049; moderate/severe OSA: β −0.69, 95% CI −1.32 to −0.05, p=0.035), compared to the 250 (19.5%) participants without OSA. No associations of OSA with decline in domain-specific cognitive tests were observed. Interaction terms were not significant for the effects of aspirin with OSA on change in any cognitive test score.

Conclusions

OSA was associated with a small decline in global cognition over 3 years in this healthy older cohort. This decline was not attenuated by aspirin.
Synthesis of condensed tannin model compounds regioselectively labeled with a 13C-stable isotope
Authors: Moon SunJae , Kawasaki Yuya , Kofujita Hisayoshi
Published: August 2024

Condensed tannins exhibit diverse bioactivities that render them promising for applications in the food and medical fields. For the analysis and monitoring of condensed tannins, 13C-labeled derivatives would provide a useful tool. In this study, condensed tannin polymers regioselectively labeled with a stable isotope were synthesized using 13C-labeled acetic acid or 13C-labeled dimethylformamide as the starting material. The resulting synthetic polymers were labeled with 13C at the C-4 or C-2 positions. A GPC analysis revealed that all model polymers comprised mainly tetramer to hexamer structures. According to the 13C-NMR data of the synthetic tannin models and natural condensed tannin obtained from sugi bark, the chemical structure of both compounds was very similar. Furthermore, compared with the natural condensed tannin and unlabeled synthetic polymer, the labeled compound showed more intense C-4 and C-2 13C signals, indicating that the 13C labeling proceeded regioselectively. These compounds are useful for analyzing the chemical reactions of condensed tannins and monitoring structural transformation processes in vivo.