bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of self-reported cardiovascular problems in childhood cancer survivors by contacting general practitioners: feasibility and results
Authors: Hau Eva-Maria , Sláma Tomáš , Essig Stefan , Michel Gisela , Wengenroth Laura , Bergstraesser Eva , von der Weid Nicolas X. , Schindera Christina , Kuehni Claudia E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Epidemiological studies often rely on self-reported health problems and validation greatly improves study quality. In a study of late effects after childhood cancer, we validated self-reported cardiovascular problems by contacting general practitioners (GPs). This paper describes: (a) the feasibility of this approach; and (b) the agreement between survivor-reports and reports from their GP.

Methods

The Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (SCCSS) contacts all childhood cancer survivors registered in the Swiss Childhood Cancer Registry since 1976 who survived at least 5 years from cancer diagnosis. We validated answers of all survivors who reported a cardiovascular problem in the questionnaire. Reported cardiovascular problems were hypertension, arrhythmia, congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, stroke, thrombosis, and valvular problems. In the questionnaire, we further asked survivors to provide a valid address of their GP and a consent for contact. We sent case-report forms to survivors’ GPs and requested information on cardiovascular diagnoses of their patients. To determine agreement between information reported by survivors and GPs, we calculated Cohen’s kappa (κ) coefficients for each category of cardiovascular problems.

Results

We used questionnaires from 2172 respondents of the SCCSS. Of 290 survivors (13% of 2172) who reported cardiovascular problems, 166 gave consent to contact their GP and provided a valid address. Of those, 135 GPs (81%) replied, and 128 returned the completed case-report form. Survivor-reports were confirmed by 54/128 GPs (42%). Of the 54 GPs, 36 (28% of 128) confirmed the problems as reported by the survivors; 11 (9% of 128) confirmed the reported problem(s) and gave additional information on more cardiovascular outcomes; and seven GPs (5% of 128) confirmed some, but not all cardiovascular problems. Agreement between GPs and survivors was good for stroke (κ = 0.79), moderate for hypertension (κ = 0.51), arrhythmias (κ = 0.41), valvular problems (κ = 0.41) and thrombosis (κ = 0.56), and poor for coronary heart disease (κ = 0.15) and heart failure (κ = 0.32).

Conclusions

Despite excellent GP compliance, it was found unfeasible to validate self-reported cardiovascular problems via GPs because they do not serve as gatekeepers in the Swiss health care system. It is thus necessary to develop other validation methods to improve the quality of patient-reported outcomes.
Feasibility and usefulness of cognitive monitoring using a new home-based cognitive test in mild cognitive impairment: a prospective single arm study
Authors: Lee Kyung Won , Hong Yun Jeong , Yang Eun Jin , Lee Si Baek , Kim Seong Hoon , Na Seunghee , Kim Young-Do , Park Jeong Wook
Published: March 2024

Background

The risk of dementia is increased in subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Despite the plethora of in-person cognitive tests, those that can be administered over the phone are lacking. We hypothesized that a home-based cognitive test (HCT) using phone calls would be feasible and useful in non-demented elderly. We aimed to assess feasibility and validity of a new HCT as an optional cognitive monitoring tool without visiting hospitals.

Methods

Our study was conducted in a prospective design during 24 weeks. We developed a new HCT consisting of 20 questions (score range 0–30). Participants with MCI (n = 38) were consecutively enrolled and underwent regular HCTs during 24 weeks. Associations between HCT scores and in-person cognitive scores and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers were evaluated. In addition, HCT scores in MCI participants were cross-sectionally compared with age-matched cognitively normal (n = 30) and mild AD dementia (n = 17) participants for discriminative ability of the HCT.

Results

HCT had good intra-class reliability (test-retest Cronbach’s alpha 0.839). HCT scores were correlated with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), verbal memory delayed recall, and Stroop test scores but not associated with AD biomarkers. HCT scores significantly differed among cognitively normal, MCI, and mild dementia participants, indicating its discriminative ability. Finally, 32 MCI participants completed follow-up evaluations, and 8 progressed to dementia. Baseline HCT scores in dementia progressors were lower than those in non-progressors (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The feasibility and usefulness of the HCT were demonstrated in elderly subjects with MCI. HCT could be an alternative option to monitor cognitive decline in early stages without dementia.
Post-recovery health domain scores among outpatients by SARS-CoV-2 testing status during the pre-Delta period
Authors: King Jennifer P. , Chung Jessie R. , Donahue James G. , Martin Emily T. , Leis Aleda M. , Monto Arnold S. , Gaglani Manjusha , Dunnigan Kayan , Raiyani Chandni , Saydah Sharon , Flannery Brendan , Belongia Edward A.
Published: March 2024

Background

Symptoms of COVID-19 including fatigue and dyspnea, may persist for weeks to months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study compared self-reported disability among SARS-CoV-2-positive and negative persons with mild to moderate COVID-19-like illness who presented for outpatient care before widespread COVID-19 vaccination.

Methods

Unvaccinated adults with COVID-19-like illness enrolled within 10 days of illness onset at three US Flu Vaccine Effectiveness Network sites were tested for SARS-CoV-2 by molecular assay. Enrollees completed an enrollment questionnaire and two follow-up surveys (7–24 days and 2–7 months after illness onset) online or by phone to assess illness characteristics and health status. The second follow-up survey included questions measuring global health, physical function, fatigue, and dyspnea. Scores in the four domains were compared by participants’ SARS-CoV-2 test results in univariate analysis and multivariable Gamma regression.

Results

During September 22, 2020 – February 13, 2021, 2712 eligible adults were enrolled, 1541 completed the first follow-up survey, and 650 completed the second follow-up survey. SARS-CoV-2-positive participants were more likely to report fever at acute illness but were otherwise comparable to SARS-CoV-2-negative participants. At first follow-up, SARS-CoV-2-positive participants were less likely to have reported fully or mostly recovered from their illness compared to SARS-CoV-2-negative participants. At second follow-up, no differences by SARS-CoV-2 test results were detected in the four domains in the multivariable model.

Conclusion

Self-reported disability was similar among outpatient SARS-CoV-2-positive and -negative adults 2–7 months after illness onset.
Sarcoid-like reaction and hypothyroidism induced by PD-1 inhibitor treatment in metastatic renal cell carcinoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Shrateh Oadi N. , Abugharbieh Yazan , Asbeh Yousef Abu , hour Hani , Awad Iyad , bannoura Sami
Published: March 2024

Background

Pembrolizumab is among the approved treatments for a variety of cancer types, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). It has contributed to enhancing the prognosis of renal cell carcinoma. However, it is essential to be aware of the numerous potential immune-related side effects associated with its use.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old patient with a history of metastatic renal cell carcinoma has been undergoing treatment with Pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor. The medication has led to the development of a sarcoid-like reaction, initially misinterpreted as cancer recurrence and progression. Additionally, the patient has experienced new-onset hypothyroidism, which has been attributed to the immunotherapy.

Conclusion

Clinicians, including oncologists, endocrinologists, and radiologists, should maintain a high level of suspicions and awareness regarding the potential adverse events associated with newly introduced immunotherapies like pembrolizumab. This knowledge is crucial for the accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of patients receiving these treatments.
Medical students’ awareness of overdiagnosis and implications for preventing overdiagnosis
Authors: Colbert Lucinda , Hegazi Iman , Peters Kath , Edmiston Natalie
Published: March 2024

Overdiagnosis is a growing health issue, yet our understanding of medical students’ exposure to this concept within medical education is limited. Our aim was to explore students’ experience of diagnostic learning to identify how overdiagnosis may be understood by students. During in-person and online semi-structured interviews throughout 2021, we explored the education experience of twelve Western Sydney University medical students in years 3–5. Through inductive thematic analysis we identified four themes. These themes encompassed student commitment to learning about diagnosis, lack of certainty surrounding diagnosis and emotional factors of medical care, overdiagnosis as seen through the lens of high and low-value care during clinical placements and student-identified missed learning opportunities related to overdiagnosis. This study found that medical students develop inherent knowledge of overdiagnosis through an interplay of personal factors, medical school curriculum and the setting in which their training takes place. Our findings allow insight for future improvement of medical curriculum to produce exceptional medical graduates.
The relationship between Empathy and listening styles is complex: implications for doctors in training
Authors: Beheshti Amir , Arashlow Farzin Tahmasbi , Fata Ladan , Barzkar Farzaneh , Baradaran Hamid R.
Published: March 2024

Background

Effective communication is the key to a successful relationship between doctors and their patients. Empathy facilitates effective communication, but physicians vary in their ability to empathize with patients. Listening styles are a potential source of this difference. We aimed to assess empathy and listening styles among medical students and whether students with certain listening styles are more empathetic.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 97 medical students completed the Jefferson scale of Empathy (JSE) and the revised version of the Listening Styles Profile (LSP-R). The relationship between empathy and listening styles was assessed by comparing JSE scores across different listening styles using ANOVA in SPSS software. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Overall, the students showed a mean empathy score of 103 ± 14 on JSE. Empathy scores were lower among clinical students compared to preclinical students. Most of the medical students preferred the analytical listening style. The proportion of students who preferred the relational listening style was lower among clinical students compared to preclinical students. There was no significant relationship between any of the listening styles with empathy.

Conclusion

Our results do not support an association between any particular listening style with medical students’ empathic ability. We propose that students who have better empathetic skills might shift between listening styles flexibly rather than sticking to a specific listening style.
Value-based pricing of cognitive behavioral therapy for depression in primary care: an economic evaluation
Authors: Gandjour Afschin
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Value-based pricing (VBP) determines product prices based on their perceived benefits. In healthcare, VBP prices medical technologies considering health outcomes and other relevant factors. This study applies VBP using economic evaluation to provider-patient communication, taking cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for adult primary care patients with depressive disorders as a case study.

Methods

A 12-week decision-tree model was developed from the German social health insurance system’s perspective, comparing CBT against the standard of care. The influence of an extended time horizon on VBP was assessed using a theoretical model and long-term data spanning 46 months.

Results

Using a willingness-to-pay threshold of €88,000 per quality-adjusted life year gained, the base-case 50-minute compensation rate for CBT was €45. Assuming long-term effects of CBT significantly affected the value-based compensation, increasing it to €226.

Conclusions

This study showcases the potential of applying VBP to CBT. However, significant price variability is highlighted, contingent upon assumptions regarding CBT’s long-term impacts.
Freezing of gait in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Kihlstedt Carl-Johan , Malm Jan , Fasano Alfonso , Bäckström David
Published: March 2024

Background

Reports of freezing of gait (FoG) in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) are few and results are variable. This study’s objective was to evaluate the frequency of FoG in a large cohort of iNPH patients, identify FoG-associated factors, and assess FoG’s responsiveness to shunt surgery.

Methods

Videotaped standardized gait protocols with iNPH patients pre- and post-shunt surgery (n = 139; median age 75 (71–79) years; 48 women) were evaluated for FoG episodes by two observers (Cohens kappa = 0.9, p < 0.001). FoG episodes were categorized. Mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and MRI white matter hyperintensities (WMH) assessment using the Fazekas scale were performed. CSF was analyzed for Beta-amyloid, Tau, and Phospho-tau. Patients with and without FoG were compared.

Results

Twenty-two patients (16%) displayed FoG at baseline, decreasing to seven (8%) after CSF shunt surgery (p = 0.039). The symptom was most frequently exhibited during turning (n = 16, 73%). Patients displaying FoG were older (77.5 vs. 74.6 years; p = 0.029), had a slower walking speed (0.59 vs. 0.89 m/s; p < 0.001), a lower Tinetti POMA score (6.8 vs. 10.8; p < 0.001), lower MMSE score (21.3 vs. 24.0; p = 0.031), and longer disease duration (4.2 vs. 2.3 years; p < 0.001) compared to patients not displaying FoG. WMH or CSF biomarkers did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

FoG is occurring frequently in iNPH patients and may be considered a typical feature of iNPH. FoG in iNPH was associated with higher age, longer disease duration, worse cognitive function, and a more unstable gait. Shunt surgery seems to improve the symptom.
TGF-β-activated circRYK drives glioblastoma progression by increasing VLDLR mRNA expression and stability in a ceRNA- and RBP-dependent manner
Authors: Wang Yuhang , Wang Binbin , Cao Wenping , Xu Xiupeng
Published: March 2024

Background

The TGF-β signalling pathway is intricately associated with the progression of glioblastoma (GBM). The objective of this study was to examine the role of circRNAs in the TGF-β signalling pathway.

Methods

In our research, we used transcriptome analysis to search for circRNAs that were activated by TGF-β. After confirming the expression pattern of the selected circRYK, we carried out in vitro and in vivo cell function assays. The underlying mechanisms were analysed via RNA pull-down, luciferase reporter, and RNA immunoprecipitation assays.

Results

CircRYK expression was markedly elevated in GBM, and this phenotype was strongly associated with a poor prognosis. Functionally, circRYK promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and GSC maintenance in GBM. Mechanistically, circRYK sponges miR-330-5p and promotes the expression of the oncogene VLDLR. In addition, circRYK could enhance the stability of VLDLR mRNA via the RNA-binding protein HuR.

Conclusion

Our findings show that TGF-β promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition and GSC maintenance in GBM through the circRYK-VLDLR axis, which may provide a new therapeutic target for the treatment of GBM.
Characterization of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease model: spontaneous type 2 diabetic cynomolgus monkeys with systemic pro-inflammation, positive biomarkers and developing AD-like pathology
Authors: Huang Xinxin , Huang Shanshan , Fu Fangyan , Song Junzhen , Zhang Yuling , Yue Feng
Published: March 2024

Background

The key to the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is to be able to predict and diagnose AD at the preclinical or early stage, but the lack of a preclinical model of AD is the critical factor that causes this problem to remain unresolved.

Methods

We assessed 18 monkeys in vivo evaluation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and AD pathological biomarkers (n = 9 / type 2 diabetic mellitus (T2DM) group, age 20, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) ≥ 100 mg/dL, and n = 9 / negative control (NC) group, age 17, FPG < 100 mg/dL). Levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and AD pathological biomarkers was measured by ELISA and Simoa Technology, respectively. 9 monkeys evaluated ex vivo for AD-like pathology (n = 6 / T2DM group, age 22.17, FPG ≥ 126 mg/dL, and n = 3 / NC group, age 14.67, FPG < 100 mg/dL). To evaluate the pathological features of AD in the brains of T2DM monkeys, we assessed the levels of Aβ, phospho-tau, and neuroinflammation using immunohistochemistry, which further confirmed the deposition of Aβ plaques by Bielschowsky’s silver, Congo red, and Thioflavin S staining. Synaptic damage and neurodegeneration were assessed by immunofluorescence.

Results

We found not only increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in peripheral blood (PB) and brain of T2DM monkeys but also changes in PB of AD pathological biomarkers such as decreased β-amyloid (Aβ) 42 and Aβ40 levels. Most notably, we observed AD-like pathological features in the brain of T2DM monkeys, including Aβ plaque deposition, p-tau from neuropil thread to pre-neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), and even the appearance of extracellular NFT. Microglia were activated from a resting state to an amoeboid. Astrocytes showed marked hypertrophy and an increased number of cell bodies and protrusions. Finally, we observed impairment of the postsynaptic membrane but no neurodegeneration or neuronal death.

Conclusions

Overall, T2DM monkeys showed elevated levels of peripheral and intracerebral inflammation, positive AD biomarkers in body fluids, and developing AD-like pathology in the brain, including Aβ and tau pathology, glial cell activation, and partial synaptic damage, but no neuronal degeneration or death as compared to the healthy normal group. Hereby, we consider the T2DM monkeys with elevation of the peripheral pro-inflammatory factors and positive AD biomarkers can be potentially regarded as a preclinical AD model.
Diaphragm thickness modifications and associated factors during VA-ECMO for a cardiogenic shock: a cohort study
Authors: Moury Pierre-Henri , Béhouche Alexandre , Bailly Sébastien , Durand Zoé , Dessertaine Géraldine , Pollet Angelina , Jaber Samir , Verges Samuel , Albaladejo Pierre
Published: March 2024

Background

The incidence, causes and impact of diaphragm thickness evolution in veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) for cardiogenic shock are unknown.

Our study investigates its evolution during the first week of VA-ECMO and its relationship with sweep gas flow settings.

Methods

We conducted a prospective monocentric observational study in a 12-bed ICU in France, enrolling patients on the day of the VA-ECMO implantation. The diaphragm thickness and the diaphragm thickening fraction (as index of contractile activity, dTF; dTF < 20% defined a low contractile activity) were daily measured for one week using ultrasound. Factors associated with diaphragm thickness evolution (categorized as increased, stable, or atrophic based on > 10% modification from baseline to the last measurement), early extubation role (< day4), and patients outcome at 60 days were investigated. Changes in diaphragm thickness, the primary endpoint, was analysed using a mixed-effect linear model (MLM).

Results

Of the 29 included patients, seven (23%) presented diaphragm atrophy, 18 remained stable (60%) and 4 exhibited an increase (17%). None of the 13 early-extubated patients experienced diaphragm atrophy, while 7 (46%) presented a decrease when extubated later (p-value = 0.008). Diaphragm thickness changes were not associated with the dTF (p-value = 0.13) but with sweep gas flow (Beta = − 3; Confidence Interval at 95% (CI) [− 4.8; − 1.2]. p-value = 0.001) and pH (Beta = − 2; CI [− 2.9; − 1]. p-value < 0.001) in MLM. The dTF remained low (< 20%) in 20 patients (69%) at the study’s end and was associated with sweep gas flow evolution in MLM (Beta = − 2.8; 95% CI [− 5.2; − 0.5], p-value = 0.017). Odds ratio of death at 60 days in case of diaphragm atrophy by day 7 was 8.50 ([1.4–74], p = 0.029).

Conclusion

In our study, diaphragm thickness evolution was frequent and not associated with the diaphragm thickening fraction. Diaphragm was preserved from atrophy in case of early extubation with ongoing VA-ECMO assistance. Metabolic disorders resulting from organ failures and sweep gas flow were linked with diaphragm thickness evolution. Preserved diaphragm thickness in VA-ECMO survivors emphasizes the importance of diaphragm-protective strategies, including meticulous sweep gas flow titration.
Multi-dimensional resource allocation strategy for LEO satellite communication uplinks based on deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Hu Yu , Qiu Feipeng , Zheng Fei , Zhao Jilong
Published: March 2024

In the LEO satellite communication system, the resource utilization rate is very low due to the constrained resources on satellites and the non-uniform distribution of traffics. In addition, the rapid movement of LEO satellites leads to complicated and changeable networks, which makes it difficult for traditional resource allocation strategies to improve the resource utilization rate. To solve the above problem, this paper proposes a resource allocation strategy based on deep reinforcement learning. The strategy takes the weighted sum of spectral efficiency, energy efficiency and blocking rate as the optimization objective, and constructs a joint power and channel allocation model. The strategy allocates channels and power according to the number of channels, the number of users and the type of business. In the reward decision mechanism, the maximum reward is obtained by maximizing the increment of the optimization target. However, during the optimization process, the decision always focuses on the optimal allocation for current users, and ignores QoS for new users. To avoid the situation, current service beams are integrated with high- traffic beams, and states of beams are refactored to maximize long-term benefits to improve system performance.

Simulation experiments show that in scenarios with a high number of users, the proposed resource allocation strategy reduces the blocking rate by at least 5% compared to reinforcement learning methods, effectively enhancing resource utilization.
Validation and evaluation of school-based mental health literacy training program "The Guide Cymru" in Iranian adolescent students aged 13–15: study protocol
Authors: Zeidabadi Batool , Khodayarian Mahsa , Sadeghi Reza , Jambarsang Sara , mohseni Mina
Published: March 2024

Background

Schools are an ideal setting for enhancing mental health literacy, a crucial strategy for improving adolescents’ mental health knowledge and attitudes and promoting help-seeking. "The Guide Cymru" program is an adaptation of the mental health literacy program" The Guide" that was developed in Canada. The program will be culturally adapted for 13- to 15-year-old Iranian adolescent students in the first secondary schools.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, using the stratified random sampling procedure, the whole eighth and ninth grade student body (aged 13 to 15) from Sirjan City's first secondary schools will be included in the study. Twenty first secondary schools will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: control or intervention. Finally, 562 students and 40 teachers will participate in the research. The tools of mental health literacy scale (MHLs), mental health general knowledge and attitudes related to mental disorders/illnesses are employed in this study.

Discussion

This trial aims to be to explore whether "The Guide Cymru", a mental health literacy program offered to students as part of the school curriculum, can decrease the stigma associated with mental health and promote help-seeking behaviors among students.
Childhood maltreatment and psychopathy in Chinese juvenile offenders: person-centered perspective
Authors: Yang Yuanhua , Yu Jie , Zhang Suxian , Xie Qing
Published: March 2024

Background

Childhood maltreatment stands as a salient risk factor in the etiology of juvenile delinquency, with a profound impact on the behavioral trajectories of young offenders. However, there is limited research on latent profile analysis to explore distinctive patterns of childhood maltreatment in Chinese juvenile offenders. Consequently, there is a lack of understanding regarding the associations between maltreatment profiles and relevant variables in this context. The present study aimed to explore meaningful subgroups of childhood maltreatment in juvenile offenders, and we further examined the associations between subgroups and multiple outcomes especially psychopathy.

Methods

The data was obtained from a sample of Chinese juvenile offenders (N = 625, M age = 17.22, SD = 1.23). This study employed a latent profile analysis (LPA) based on factor scores of the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form to identify the subgroups and examined the differences across subgroups using outcomes variables including psychopathy, callous-unemotional traits, aggression and anxiety. This study includes three self-report measures to evaluate psychopathy, with due regard for the nuanced considerations on the factor structure inherent in the conceptualization of psychopathy.

Results

Two subgroups were identified, including the non-maltreatment subgroup (80.2%) and the maltreatment subgroup (19.8%). Maltreatment subgroup was characterized by a greater level of all types of maltreatment with particularly higher of emotion neglect. Besides, we found that maltreatment subgroup showed a significantly higher level of psychopathy across multiple self-report measures, and greater callous-unemotional traits, lack of empathy, aggression and anxiety. We found two subgroups of child maltreatment in Chinese juvenile offenders.

Conclusions

These findings may provide a further understanding of childhood maltreatment and the clinical intervention on psychopathy in the early period.
Biodynamic, organic and integrated agriculture effects on cv. Italia table grapes juice, over a 3-year period experiment: an 1H NMR spectroscopy-based metabolomics study
Authors: Colì Chiara Stella , Girelli Chiara Roberta , Cesari Gianluigi , Hussain Mudassar , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo
Published: March 2024

Background

The new trend demanding for “natural” agri-food products has encouraged the application of more sustainable and eco-friendly farming methods, which limit or avoid the use of synthetic chemicals. This approach is increasing in viticulture, one of the sectors with the highest commercial value since grapes and derived products are largely consumed foodstuffs, with appreciated nutritional and sensory features. In this work, 1H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR) was applied for the metabolic profiling of cv. Italia table grapes samples, from the same origin area, cultivated with different treatments (biodynamic, organic and integrated) and collected in three subsequent vintages. Multivariate statistical analysis was performed on NMR-data with the aim of comprehensively researching the possible influences on metabolites due to the use of diverse agricultural practices.

Results

Both inter-annual variability (2020, 2021 and 2022 vintages) and different vineyard treatments (biodynamic, organic and integrated) resulted as significant drivers for samples differentiation in the preliminary unsupervised analysis of the (1H NMR spectra derived) metabolic profile data. Nevertheless, supervised data analyses showed that inter-vineyards variability, due to application of diverse farming methods, had a comparable discriminating effect with respect to harvesting years. Ethanol, sugars (as α-/β-glucose), organic acids (as malate) and amino acids (as arginine, leucine, glutamine) resulted the most viticultural practices-dependent metabolites. Interestingly, results from pairwise comparisons between treatments indicated the biodynamic samples with respect to the organic ones as the best-observed differentiation. This was followed by the biodynamic vs integrated and organic vs integrated samples comparisons, in decreasing discrimination order, as confirmed by the descriptiveness and predictive ability parameters of the corresponding pairwise OPLS-DA models.

Conclusions

Results highlighted that metabolites’ composition in cv. Italia table grapes juice is significantly affected by the use of different kinds of vineyard managements (biodynamic, organic and integrated, here investigated). Metabolomics study, here employing 1H NMR spectroscopy combined with multivariate statistical analysis, offers powerful tools to elucidate the metabolic differences among classes of samples.

Graphical Abstract
Anxiety-provoking factors in consecutive interpreting: a qualitative study of Iranian student interpreter trainees
Authors: Ferdowsi Sima , Razmi Mohammad Hasan
Published: March 2024

Given the inherent association of interpreting with feelings of anxiousness, the subject of interpreting poses a formidable challenge for students in this field. A large number of prospective interpreters assert that they are unable to complete the assignment to a satisfactory level because they are unable to get past their fear. The harmful effect of anxiety on the interpreting performance of student trainees could result in failure and fully inhibit their accomplishment. Despite the growing recognition of anxiety as a significant challenge in interpreting education, there is a lack of comprehensive studies investigating the specific factors contributing to anxiety in consecutive interpreting and effective strategies for its reduction. To address this issue and in order to identify the factors contributing to trainees’ anxiety and those that might help to reduce consecutive interpreting (CI) anxiety, thirty students were chosen to participate in semi-structured interviews. Different factors exerting an effect on the anxiety levels of Iranian CI pupils were identified through qualitative research. These factors were categorized into six groups, i.e., individual, input (language-related factors, speaker-related factors), note- taking (inappropriate note-taking skill, lack of creativity in taking notes), environmental (noise and distraction, peer-related factors), output (meaning transfer, delivery), and teacher-related (testing, teachers’ behavior). Moreover, the study found that factors to reduce anxiety in consecutive interpreting could be classified as teacher-related and trainee-related factors each with additional sub-factors.
Assessing the impact of corporate social responsibility communication on nonprofit organisations in South Africa
Authors: Tsinga-Mambadja Sabryna Joanne , Dondolo Hilda Bongazana , Conradie David Pieter
Published: March 2024

The aim of the study was to investigate whether the content of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) messages predicts communication outcomes in South African nonprofit organisations (NPOs). The study found a positive association between CSR message content and CSR communication outcomes. Additionally, CSR message content in nonprofit organisations is positively linked to their CSR communication outcomes. Furthermore, support for community-related activities positively impacts CSR communication outcomes, thereby explaining the correlation between CSR message content and communication effectiveness. The study lays the groundwork for non-profit organisations seeking optimisation of their CSR messaging to achieve a wider socio-economic impact on the public at large. These results underscore the importance for nonprofit organisations to strategically develop CSR messages that highlight their support for community-related activities. By emphasising such content in their communication efforts, organisations can enhance their CSR communication outcomes, potentially fostering stronger relationships with stakeholders and garnering increased support for their initiatives.
Characterizing patient factors, perioperative interventions, and outcomes associated with inpatients falls after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Lawrence Kyle W. , Link Lauren , Lavin Patricia , Schwarzkopf Ran , Rozell Joshua C.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Mechanical falls represent a potential adverse event after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and may introduce further injury and delay postoperative recovery. This study aimed to identify patient characteristics associated with inpatient falls, to determine the impact of inpatient falls on surgical outcomes following TKA, and to describe the relationship between tourniquet and/or adductor canal block (ACB) use and fall rates.

Methods

Patients undergoing primary, elective TKA at a single institution between 2018 and 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were stratified into groups based on whether they sustained a postoperative inpatient fall or not. Perioperative characteristics, lengths of stay (LOS), rates of 90-day readmissions, and revisions were compared, and fall characteristics were described. Subanalysis was conducted comparing fall incidence based on tourniquet and/or ACB use.

Results

In total 6472 patients were included with 39 (0.6%) sustaining falls. Falls most commonly occurred on postoperative days one (43.6%) and two (30.8%), and were most commonly due to loss of balance (41.9%) or buckling (35.5%). Six (15.4%) fall patients sustained minor injuries, and one (2.6%) sustained major injury (malleolar fracture requiring non-operative orthopaedic management). The LOS (3.0 ± 1.5 vs 2.3 ± 1.5 days, p = 0.002) and all-cause revision rates at latest follow-up (10.3% vs. 2.0%, p = 0.008) were significantly higher in the fall group. Falls were comparable across subgroups based on tourniquet and/or ACB use (p = 0.429).

Conclusion

Patients who fell had a longer LOS and higher revision rate postoperatively. Rates of inpatient falls were comparable regardless of tourniquet and/or ACB use. Concern for inpatient falls should not influence surgeons when considering the use of tourniquets and/or ACBs, though well-designed, large-volume, prospective randomized studies are warranted to better understand this relationship.
Diagnostic efficacy of abdominal US compared to contrast enhanced CT in the evaluation of the left hepatic lobe volume for morbidly obese patients before bariatric surgery
Authors: Baz Ahmed Abdelrahman , Hussien Amira Mohammed , Soliman Ahmad Fouad , Al-Bohy Abo El-Magd
Published: March 2024

Background

Bariatric surgery has been widely distributed as an effective treatment method for morbid obesity. An increased volume of the left hepatic lobe may affect the ergonomics of bariatric surgery, which could complicate the surgical techniques and require special instruments. CT of the abdomen is considered the gold standard imaging modality in the assessment of the left hepatic lobe volume; nevertheless, it has some drawbacks, such as exposure to ionizing radiation, besides the contrast and gantry limitations. The objective of this study is to investigate the diagnostic accuracy of abdominal US in comparison to CT in measuring the left hepatic lobe volume in morbidly obese patients as part of their preoperative evaluation. Seventy-two morbidly obese patients of different ages (between 22 and 55 years) and genders were included in this study who were scheduled for bariatric surgery.

Results

The intraclass coefficient and Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient with their 95% CI were used. There was a strong positive correlation between left hepatic lobe volumes as measured by US and CT (r = 0.999, p value < 0.001), indicating a significant linear relationship between them. The mean of the two variables was very close (474.2 ± 164.9 cm3) by US and (475.1 ± 164.5 cm3) by CT.

Conclusions

Abdominal US examination for assessment of the left hepatic lobe volume is considered a valid diagnostic method compared to CT (with a clinically accepted slight difference between values) in preoperative assessment of morbidly obese patients. It provides an accurate, simple, and inexpensive diagnostic tool that avoids the drawbacks of CT.
Feasibility of using the frequency-domain electromagnetic method to detect pipeline blockages: Experimental study
Authors: Zhang Chengli , Pan Jianwei , Liu Jiaxu , Zhan Lin , Gao Jian , Luo Haixin , Yang Chen
Published: March 2024

The normal function of modern society requires a vast number of buried pipelines with differing specifications, which could become blocked to varying degrees during routine operation. Consequently, a major technical municipal engineering problem is how best to accurately, nondestructively, and efficiently locate blockages in underground pipelines. The frequency-domain electromagnetic (FDEM) method has been widely used in geophysical exploration because of its features of nondestructive examination and high efficiency. Considering the application of FDEM to the problem of locating blockages in underground pipelines, numerical simulations and physical experiments are conducted on different pipeline types with different blocked states, different blockage substances, and different working configurations. Results demonstrate that FDEM is most applicable for the detection of blockages in insulated pipelines, especially when the single-ended charging method is used or when the blockage has reasonable impermeability because the induction signal exhibits a particularly obvious abrupt drop at the blockage position. However, owing to the low resistivity of metals and the current propagating to the surrounding ground, which makes it easier to form more conductive paths than blockages, the FDEM displays no obvious change in signal characteristics at the position of a blockage in a metal pipeline, which means that this method has certain challenges for detecting such blockages.
40 Gray in 5 Fractions for Salvage Reirradiation of Spine Lesions Previously Treated With Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy
Authors: Moore Assaf , Zhang Zhigang , Fei Teng , Zhang Lei , Accomando Laura , Schmitt Adam M. , Higginson Daniel S. , Mueller Boris A. , Zinovoy Melissa , Gelblum Daphna Y. , Yerramilli Divya , Xu Amy J. , Brennan Victoria S. , Guttmann David M. , Grossman Craig E. , Dover Laura L. , Shaverdian Narek , Pike Luke R. G. , Cuaron John J. , Dreyfuss Alexandra , Lis Eric , Barzilai Ori , Bilsky Mark H. , Yamada Yoshiya
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE:

A retrospective single-center analysis of the safety and efficacy of reirradiation to 40 Gy in 5 fractions (reSBRT) in patients previously treated with stereotactic body radiotherapy to the spine was performed.

METHODS:

We identified 102 consecutive patients treated with reSBRT for 105 lesions between 3/2013 and 8/2021. Sixty-three patients (61.8%) were treated to the same vertebral level, and 39 (38.2%) to overlapping immediately adjacent levels. Local control was defined as the absence of progression within the treated target volume. The probability of local progression was estimated using a cumulative incidence curve. Death without local progression was considered a competing risk.

RESULTS:

Most patients had extensive metastatic disease (54.9%) and were treated to the thoracic spine (53.8%). The most common regimen in the first course of stereotactic body radiotherapy was 27 Gy in 3 fractions, and the median time to reSBRT was 16.4 months. At the time of simulation, 44% of lesions had advanced epidural disease. Accordingly, 80% had myelogram simulations. Both the vertebral body and posterior elements were treated in 86% of lesions. At a median follow-up time of 13.2 months, local failure occurred in 10 lesions (9.5%). The 6- and 12-month cumulative incidences of local failure were 4.8% and 6%, respectively. Seven patients developed radiation-related neuropathy, and 1 patient developed myelopathy. The vertebral compression fracture rate was 16.7%.

CONCLUSION:

In patients with extensive disease involvement, reSBRT of spine metastases with 40 Gy in 5 fractions seems to be safe and effective. Prospective trials are needed to determine the optimal dose and fractionation in this clinical scenario.
Türkiye’de Sağ-Sol Ayrımını İnşa Eden Yatay ve Dikey İdeolojik Eksenler: Bir Siyasal Yelpaze Önerisi
Authors: Can Candaş
Published: March 2024

Türkiye’de özellikle 1970’lerden itibaren kurumsallaşmaya başlayan sağ-sol ayrımı; Batı’daki örneklerine oldukça benzer bir biçimde, iktisadi eşitliğe yönelik devrimci arayışlar ile millî kimliği ön plana çıkaran muhafazakâr tutumlar arasındaki farklılıkları betimlemiştir. Her iki tarafında farklı eğilimlerin gözlemlenebileceği bu ayrımın sol ucunda sosyalist, sağ ucunda ise milliyetçi hareketler yer alır. Ancak sentez ideolojik tutumlar dikkate alındığında; Türkiye’deki siyasal hareketleri, bu şekilde soldan sağa uzanan bir yatay doğru üzerinde sıralamak pek mümkün değildir. Örneğin İslamcı hareketlerin bu denkleme dâhil edilmesi, sağdaki dizilimi oldukça bulanıklaşır. Ayrıca Türkiye’de sınıf temelli bir ayrımdan ziyade, kültür temelli bir çatışmanın ana belirleyici olduğu bir ayrımdan bahsedilebilir. Bu bağlamda kaynağını Osmanlı-Türk modernleşmesi tecrübesinden alan Batıcılık-İslamcılık geriliminin Türkiye’de sağ-sol ayrımını netleştiren ve hatta onu dikey olarak kesen bir eksene karşılık geldiği ifade edilebilir. Bu kesişimin sentez alanlarında da Kemalizm, Ülkücülük, sosyal demokrasi ve İslami sosyalizm gibi eğilimler bulunmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, Türkiye’deki siyasal evren için Sosyalizm-Milliyetçilik (yatay) ve Batıcılık-İslamcılık (dikey) eksenlerinin oluşturduğu bir siyasal yelpaze modeli sunulmaya ve tarihsel olarak temellendirilmeye çalışılmaktadır. Türkiye’ye özgü bir sağ ve sol yorumlaması çabasına dayanan bu yelpazenin, aynı zamanda merkez sağ ve merkez sol hareketlerin temas ettikleri ideolojik alanları ve bu hareketler içerisindeki tartışma alanlarını gözlemleyebilmeyi mümkün kılacağı da düşünülmektedir.
Türk Boğazları Deniz Fenerleri İmtiyazı Sorunu ve Geçişten Alınan Ücretler (1860-1950)
Authors: Köse İsmail
Published: March 2024

Türk Boğazları’ndan geçen ticaret gemilerinden ücret alınması ilk defa sistemli bir şekilde Osmanlı Devleti döneminde uygulamaya konulmuştur. Boğazlar geçişinden alınan öncelikli ücretlerin başında fener harçları gelir. Fener ücretlerine ek olarak sıhhiye, şamandıra, tahlisiye ve römorkör ücretleri de Boğazlardan alınan harçlar arasındadır. Sanayi Devrimi’nin sağladığı ivme sonrasında hızla güç kazanan Batı kapitalizmi ve makine gücü Boğazlar geçişine yönelik ilgiyi artırmıştır. Osmanlı Devleti gerek Boğazlar geçişinin düzenlenmesinde gerekse Boğazlardaki fenerlerin yeni koşullara uygun şekilde modernize edilmesinde yetersiz kalmıştır. Söz konusu yetersizlik önce Boğazlardaki fenerlerin işletilme imtiyazının Fransız bir şirkete verilmesine neden olmuş; ilerleyen yıllarda da tahlisiye hizmetleri Batılı devletler tarafından üstlenilmiştir. Fransız şirketi kârlı bir iş olan fenerler işletmesinden uzun süre vazgeçmek istememiş, yüklü miktarda tazminatlar talep etmiştir. Anlaşmazlığın çözülebilmesi için hakem tayin edilmiş fakat sorun yine de çözülememiştir. İmtiyazın Fransız şirketinden geri alınabilmesi için Cumhuriyet kurulduktan sonra girişimlerde bulunulmuş olmasına rağmen ancak Montrö Boğazlar Sözleşmesi imzalandıktan sonra geri alınma süreci başlatılabilmiştir. Sorunun tam olarak çözüme kavuşması II. Dünya Savaşı öncesindeki koşullarda mümkün olmuştur. Bu çalışmada, Boğazlardaki fenerlerin işletme imtiyazının Fransızlara verilmesi ve sonrasında yaşanan sorunlar ile fenerlerden elde edilen gelirler ve imtiyazın geri alınma süreci irdelenecektir. Çalışmada ayrıca, tahlisiye, sıhhiye harçlarının gelişimi ve söz konusu harçların toplanmasında yaşanan problemler analiz edilerek Boğazlar geçişindeki ücretlendirme politikaları değerlendirilecektir.
CASOS PARA ENSINO EM ADMINISTRAÇÃO
Authors: Costa Silas Dias Mendes , Torres Thaís Pinto da Rocha
Published: March 2024

O objetivo deste artigo consiste em realizar uma revisão sistemática sobre os casos para ensino na área de Administração, identificando tendências, lacunas e novas possibilidades de elaboração para uso em sala de aula. A partir de um levantamento de casos publicados em periódicos indexados à Scientific Periodicals Electronic Library (SPELL), foram analisados 256 casos. Os resultados apresentados contemplam a quantidade de publicações por ano nas duas últimas décadas (2001-2020), observando-se tendência de crescimento a partir de 2010; periódicos que se destacam; autores/instituições mais proeminentes; análise das palavras-chave; áreas da Administração contempladas; disciplinas sugeridas; e temas mais recorrentes. A partir dos resultados, indica-se a necessidade de priorizar temáticas diferentes das identificadas nesta revisão, contribuindo para a expansão dos casos enquanto recurso pedagógico para o ensino em Administração. Novos casos podem proporcionar uma aprendizagem mais ativa dos estudantes, desenvolvendo competências por meio situações reais ou fictícias para análises e debates.
Η διπλή επεξεργασία κατά την απόκτηση εννοιών των φυσικών επιστημών και των μαθηματικών
Authors: Καραμανίδου Αθηνά
Published: March 2024

Οι διαισθητικές γνώσεις δεν παρεμβαίνουν μόνο κατά την διαδικασία κατανόησης των αντι-διαισθητικών επιστημονικών εννοιών προκαλώντας παρανοήσεις και συνθετικά μοντέλα, αλλά εξακολουθούν να παρεμβαίνουν και μετά την απόκτηση αυτών των εννοιών σε καταστάσεις όπου απαιτείται επιστημονική σκέψη. Έτσι, η παρέμβαση των διαισθήσεων μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε προκαταλήψεις λόγω ελλιπούς εννοιολογικής κατανόησης και λόγω επεξηγηματικής συνύπαρξης. Η παρούσα διατριβή επιχειρεί να διερευνήσει α) αν οι θεωρίες διπλής επεξεργασίας μπορούν να μας βοηθήσουν στην κατανόηση των φαινομένων που αφορούν την προκατάληψη των διαισθητικών πεποιθήσεων στην φυσική και την προκατάληψη του φυσικού αριθμού και β) την ενεργοποίηση κοινών και διακριτών μηχανισμών σε άτομα που βρίσκονται σε διαφορετικές φάσεις κατά την οικοδόμηση επιστημονικών εννοιών που σχετίζονται με την φυσική και τα μαθηματικά. Στην έρευνα συμμετείχαν 24 μαθητές/-τριες Στ’ Δημοτικού (μέση ηλικία 12.2 χρόνια) και 22 φοιτητές (μέση ηλικία 19 χρόνια) που είχαν ακολουθήσει Θετική κατεύθυνση στο Λύκειο. Έλυσαν μια σειρά από παραγωγικούς συλλογισμούς (μεθοδολογία που αξιοποιείται από τις θεωρίες Διπλής Επεξεργασίας) μέσω του προγράμματος καταγραφής οφθαλμικών κινήσεων, έργα εκτελεστικών λειτουργιών μέσω του E-prime και συμμετείχαν σε ατομικές συνεντεύξεις για την ανίχνευση της εννοιολογικής κατανόησή τους. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι τα άτομα που κατείχαν διαισθητικές απόψεις έδιναν κυρίως διαισθητικές απαντήσεις που αντανακλούν την επεξεργασία Τύπου Ι και εμφάνιζαν τις προκαταλήψεις λόγω της ελλιπούς εννοιολογικής κατανόησης, παρόλο που ενεργοποιούσαν τον μηχανισμό ανίχνευσης σύγκρουσης. Από την άλλη, τα άτομα που κατείχαν κυρίως επιστημονικές απόψεις στις συνθήκες που δεν ενεργοποιούνταν οι διαισθήσεις τους έδιναν επιστημονικές απαντήσεις που αντανακλούν την επεξεργασία Τύπου Ι. Ωστόσο, στις συνθήκες που παρέμβαιναν οι διαισθήσεις η υπέρβαση των προκαταλήψεων απαιτούσε την ενεργοποίηση των μηχανισμών ανίχνευσης της σύγκρουσης και αναστολής των διαισθήσεων, μία σειρά διαδικασιών που αντανακλά την επεξεργασία Τύπου ΙΙ. Η κατανόηση της φύσης των προκαταλήψεων που προκύπτουν από την ελλιπή εννοιολογική κατανόηση και την επεξηγηματική συνύπαρξη μπορεί να δώσει νέες κατευθυντήριες γραμμές στον χώρο της διδακτικής των φυσικών επιστημών και των μαθηματικών.