bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The associations between synaptic density and “A/T/N” biomarkers in Alzheimer’s disease: An 18F-SynVesT-1 PET/MR study
Authors: Li Junpeng , Huang Qi , Qi Na , He Kun , Li Songye , Huang Lin , Pan Fengfeng , Ren Shuhua , Hua Fengchun , Huang Yiyun , Guan Yihui , Guo Qihao , Zhao Jun , Xie Fang
Published: February 2024

A newly developed SV2A radiotracer, 18F-SynVesT-1, was used in this study to investigate synaptic density and its association with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) “A/T/N” biomarkers. The study included a cohort of 97 subjects, consisting of 64 patients with cognitive impairment (CI) and 33 individuals with normal cognition (CU). All subjects underwent 18F-SynVesT-1 PET/MR and 18F-florbetapir PET/CT scans. Additionally, a subgroup of individuals also underwent 18F-MK-6240, 18F-FDG PET/CT, plasma Aβ42/Aβ40 and p-tau181 tests. The differences in synaptic density between the groups and the correlations between synaptic density and AD “A/T/N” biomarkers were analyzed. The results showed that compared to the CU group, the CI with Aβ+ (CI+) group exhibited the most pronounced synapse loss in the hippocampus, with some loss also observed in the neocortex. Furthermore, synaptic density in the hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus showed associations with AD biomarkers detected by both imaging and plasma tests in the CI group. The associations between synaptic density and FDG uptake and hippocampal volume were also observed in the CI+ group. In conclusion, the study demonstrated significant synaptic density loss, as measured by the promising tracer 18F-SynVesT-1, and its close correlation with “A/T/N” biomarkers in patients with both Alzheimer’s clinical syndrome and pathological changes.
Too Much Hegemony: A Novel Theory of the Unintended Consequences of Dominant Narratives
Authors: Bentley Tom
Published: February 2024

This article builds on Gramscian conceptualisations of power. It does so by introducing `Hegemonic Excess Theory’ as a tool for understanding political crises. For Antonio Gramsci and his adherents, the political and economic establishment fosters consent and allegiance amongst subordinate classes through the dissemination, inculcation and appropriation of seductive and pacifying ideologies. In this article, I argue that subordinate groups may adopt such ideals too well and to such an extent that it undermines key objectives of the establishment. As such, Hegemonic Excess Theory encapsulates the idea that the leading class’s very success in imparting certain ideals among the population can magnify, become unwieldly, backfire and cause crisis for the political elite. I illustrate this through the 2016 Brexit vote, with a particular focus on how xenophobia and anti-migrant narratives and policy, including from the Remain campaign, played a pivotal role in sections of the electorate voting against the interests of the domestic and transnational establishment’s commitment to the neoliberal enterprise of the EU. While not necessarily insurmountable, this has caused a significant crisis for the ruling class. In the conclusion, I contend that Hegemonic Excess Theory has considerable analytical value in understanding political crises far beyond Brexit.

Un excès d’hégémonie : Vers une nouvelle conceptualisation des effets indésirables des discours dominants à travers l’étude de cas du Brexit
Vinyl-ester nanocomposites based on a binary-solvent system for well-exfoliated graphene and enhanced performance
Authors: Mirzapour Miraidin , Robert Mathieu , Benmokrane Brahim
Published: February 2024

This paper introduces a green approach for preparing well-dispersed graphene nanoplates (GNPs) in vinyl-ester (VE) resin. The GNPs were exfoliated in a novel binary-solvent system comprised of a water and ethanol mixture (S nanocomposites). Water and ethanol were considered poor solvents for graphene, but a combination of them could be an ideal solvent mixture. TEM images of the S nanocomposites revealed well-exfoliated graphene sheets with a few wrinkles. Hence, the effective surface areas of the GNPs considerably increased, playing a vital role in enhancing the performance of the nanocomposites. With the incorporation of just 0.4 wt% of exfoliated GNPs (S2 nanocomposite) in the VE, the tensile strength, and toughness enhanced by 51%, and 63%, respectively. Fractography analysis indicated smooth fracture surfaces of pure resin changed to very rough surface structures for the S2 nanocomposite. The viscoelastic properties of the specimens indicated that directly loading GNPs into the resin decreased the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the VE resin. In contrast, the samples prepared by liquid-phase exfoliation enhanced the Tg of the VE. Lastly, the barrier properties of the S2 nanocomposite revealed that its water absorption decreased by 26% compared to the pure resin.
Educational Attainment and Perceived Need for Future ADL Assistance
Authors: Finan Julia M. , Landes Scott D.
Published: February 2024

The current study examined whether educational attainment was associated with perceived need of assistance with future activities of daily living (ADL) among middle-aged and early older-aged adults in the United States. Data for 54,946 adults aged 40–65 years from the 2011–2014 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were analyzed using ordered logistic regression. Adults with more education will on average need less ADL assistance than adults with less education. Paradoxically, this study found that higher levels of formal education were associated with perceiving more need for future ADL assistance. This association was also found to vary between males and females. Building knowledge of long-term care planning into existing public educational structures and providing this knowledge to adults no longer involved in the formal educational system through medical providers may lead to better anticipation of future care needs.
Factors Influencing Caregivers’ Use of Respite Care Services: Secondary Analysis of the National Study of Caregiving
Authors: Ogunjesa Babatope , Gao Xiaotian , Raj Minakshi
Published: February 2024

This study examines when and why unpaid caregivers use respite services. We conducted a secondary analysis of the 2017 National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) Wave III, a U.S. nationally representative sample comprising 2652 unpaid caregivers. We found that unpaid caregivers reporting financial, physical, and emotional difficulties in caregiving were more likely to use respite care services than those not reporting these challenges. White, non-Hispanic caregivers reporting that they received support from their social networks (families/friends) were more likely to use respite care services than non-White and/or Hispanic caregivers receiving such support. Non-White and/or Hispanic caregivers who belonged to or attended support groups were more likely to use respite care support than those without social group affiliation. Respite care is underutilized in the U.S. despite its value and efficacy in supporting caregivers’ mental and physical well-being. Policies are necessary to increase availability and access to respite services for diverse unpaid caregivers.
Intelligent process control system for predicting operating conditions of slag grinding machines: a data mining approach for improved efficiency and energy savings
Authors: Wan Anping , Du Chenyu , Chen Ting , He Jiabo , Al-Bukhaiti Khalil
Published: February 2024

This study develops an intelligent data-driven approach for optimising slag grinding systems. Slag grinding exhibits complex nonlinear dynamics that challenge control. The proposed system monitors key operating parameters to assess machine health and automate control adjustments. Operating data are collected, and features linked to health status are identified using data mining techniques. Cluster analysis categorises historical data into healthy/unhealthy modes to build a condition library. Real-time data are then evaluated against this library. A predictive model forecasts future trend. The system was implemented in an industrial slag mill. Results demonstrated reduced vibration and energy use versus manual control. Validation confirmed improved accuracy in predicting mill responses. Significant energy savings were achieved annually through optimised control. The system enhances safety by automating adjustments while minimising costs and environmental impacts. Data-driven strategies overcome the limitations of traditional methods, representing an advance for intelligent management of industrial processes. Benefits were confirmed through rigorous factory implementation and performance monitoring.
Research Findings Journalists Cannot Resist: A Tale of Three Mental Health and Well-Being Studies
Authors: Terry Paul E.
Published: February 2024

Addressing employee mental health needs and fostering organizations that enable thriving has become a priority for most workplace health and well-being initiatives. While mental health issues for the nation were of growing concern before COVID-19, the pandemic amplified concerns about loneliness, burnout and deaths of despair. A recent study that garnered attention from the popular press found that participants of individual-level mental health interventions were no better off than non-participants. This editorial reviews that study, summarizes limitations and beneficial learnings from the research, and argues that organizational factors have been shown to mitigate or amplify the effectiveness of mental health services. Tenets of ‘patient-centered care’ and the principles behind Total Worker Health® will need to be more broadly embraced so that the voice of employees can better inform workplace well-being strategies and strategic plans.
Digital career competencies: A co-created scale for the digital employability competencies we’ve overlooked
Authors: de Villiers Scheepers Margarietha , Mulcahy Rory , Fleishman David , English Peter , Burgess Jacqueline , Crimmins Gail
Published: February 2024

The digital economy with flexible work contexts requires graduates to enter the workplace with digital skills. While studies have examined digital literacy and skills within domains, attending to knowledge, workplace, business and digital skills, these narrow definitions overlook the importance of digital career competencies for lifelong career management. This paper reports on measures of digital career competencies (DCC) and how the dimensionality of these measures might enable universities, students, and other stakeholders to ascertain how these competencies develop. Using a pragmatic, co-created, three-study design, initial dimensions and a pool of measurement items were developed qualitatively, involving responses from 22 alumni. These items and their dimension reliability were then tested with n = 202 students, and further evaluated using a second sample of n = 156 students. The results demonstrate that DCC can be assessed using three dimensions: digital connectedness, career management, and crowdworking. The developed 8-item, three-dimension scale exhibited sound reliability and validity. The novel co-design method for measure development, and the research findings, provide theoretical and practical contributions to emerging empirical research on DCC. These measures provide a parsimonious base for assessing DCC and facilitating the development of these competencies in higher education.
Multi-response optimization of input and output responses of multipass FSP of AA7050 with (SiC + TiB2) nanoparticles by response surface methodology
Authors: Chittoriya Bharat Singh , Jayant Arvind , Kumar Rakesh
Published: February 2024

In this work, multi-response optimization of output and input responses of multipass friction stir processing (MPFSP) of AA7050 with (SiC + TiB2) nanoparticles by response surface methodology based on the center composite design and metallurgical characterization were analyzed, and the optimum parameters of the MPFSP were discussed. At high tool rotational speed (TRS) of 1100 rpm with 50% TiB2 and 100% SiC nanoparticles, maximum joint efficiency (137.80%) was observed due to uniformly dispersed SiC and TiB2 within the matrix, serving as practical obstacles to dislocation motion, hindering plastic deformation, and facilitating enhanced mechanical properties. MPFS and nanoparticles broke the coarse grain structure of the base metal and produced a fine and homogenous grain structure in the stir zone. Increasing the concentration of reinforcement particles and FSP passes (1 to 4) inhibited grain boundary migration and significantly reduced the high-angle grain boundary and grain size. The optimized value of input parameters TRS, TiB2 nanoparticles, and SiC nanoparticles was observed as 1068 rpm, 56%, and 97%, while the optimized value of output response tensile strength, % strain, and hardness value was found as 569.16 MPa, 20.79, and 148.32 HV respectively. The p-value for all three models remained below 0.05, indicating a confidence level exceeding 95% in the constructed models, rendering them suitable for design exploration. The hardness value range of MPFSP/(SiC + TiB2) lies between 130 HV and 190 HV. The minimum hardness value of 131.03 HV was observed at 0% TiB2 and 50% SiC reinforcement particles with TRS of 1100 rpm, while the highest microhardness (187.02 HV) was perceived at 1000 rpm.
Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates among individuals at high risk for sexually transmitted diseases in Zurich, Switzerland
Authors: Jünger Christian , Imkamp Frank , Balakrishna Suraj , Gysin Marina , Haldimann Klara , Brugger Silvio D , Scheier Thomas C , Hampel Benjamin , Hobbie Sven N , Günthard Huldrych F , Braun Dominique L
Published: February 2024

Background

While ceftriaxone resistance remains scarce in Switzerland, global Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) antimicrobial resistance poses an urgent threat. This study describes clinical characteristics in MSM (men who have sex with men) diagnosed with NG infection and analyses NG resistance by phenotypic and genotypic means.

Methods

Data of MSM enrolled in three clinical cohorts with a positive polymerase chain reaction test (PCR) for NG were analysed between January 2019 and December 2021 and linked with antibiotic susceptibility testing. Bacterial isolates were subjected to whole genome sequencing (WGS).

Results

Of 142 participants, 141 (99%) were MSM and 118 (84%) living with HIV. Participants were treated with ceftriaxone ( N = 79), azithromycin ( N = 2), or a combination of both ( N = 61). No clinical or microbiological failures were observed. From 182 positive PCR samples taken, 23 were available for detailed analysis. Based on minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs), all isolates were susceptible to ceftriaxone, gentamicin, cefixime, cefpodoxime, ertapenem, zoliflodacin, and spectinomycin. Resistance to azithromycin, tetracyclines and ciprofloxacin was observed in 10 (43%), 23 (100%) and 11 (48%) of the cases, respectively. Analysis of WGS data revealed combinations of resistance determinants that matched with the corresponding phenotypic resistance pattern of each isolate.

Conclusion

Among the MSM diagnosed with NG mainly acquired in Switzerland, ceftriaxone MICs were low for a subset of bacterial isolates studied and no treatment failures were observed. For azithromycin, high occurrences of in vitro resistance were found. Gentamicin, cefixime, cefpodoxime, ertapenem, spectinomycin, and zoliflodacin displayed excellent in vitro activity against the 23 isolates underscoring their potential as alternative agents to ceftriaxone.
Improving awareness and uptake of pre-exposure HIV prophylaxis amongst service users accessing Sexual Health London, a regional online postal sexually transmitted infection testing health service
Authors: Caoimhe Curran , Spate Jonathan , Day Sara
Published: February 2024

Background

The UK pledged commitment to the global strategy of zero new HIV infections and HIV-related deaths by 2030. PrEP was commissioned in England in 2020 and is fundamental to achieving these targets, yet awareness and uptake are suboptimal in certain populations.

Method

Sexual Health London (SHL) incorporated questions on its e-triage questionnaire estimating need for PrEP amongst online service users. Two types of signposting messaging were shown to users directing them to more detailed online content: PrEP-discussion (potential need) and PrEP-eligible (assumed need). The effectiveness of this signposting was evaluated by reviewing demographics and triage responses in returning users.

Results

426,149 SHL users requested STI screening between 1.7.21-31.10.22. 16% (69,867/426,149) and 32.2% (137,489/426,149) of individuals received PrEP-eligible and PrEP-discussion signposting. The PrEP-eligible cohort were: 41.0% gay/bisexual or other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), 16.3% heterosexual males, 33.1% heterosexual females, and 60.6% were of white ethnicity. The PrEP-discussion cohort were: 9.3% GBMSM, 34.3%% heterosexual males, 45.5% heterosexual females and 63.7% of white ethnicity. 50.4% (35,190/69,867) and 41.3% (56,808/137,489) of the PrEP-eligible and PrEP discussion cohorts ordered a subsequent SHL STI testing kit, during which 10.0% (3510/35,190) and 5.9% (3364/56,808) reported taking PrEP. Of those who denied taking PrEP, 59% (18,702/31,680) and 61.0% (32,559/53,444) triggered PrEP signposting again. 95.4% of PrEP starters were GBMSM (6562/6874) and 1.4% (97/6874) heterosexual males/females.

Conclusion

The e-service demonstrated feasibility in estimating PrEP need and signposting service users. Up to 16% of returning users subsequently commenced PrEP. This highlights significant missed opportunities for the remaining online users, who continue to report HIV acquisition risk(s). Further efforts regionally/nationally to optimise uptake of PrEP, particularly among under-represented groups are warranted.
Racial Prejudice Affects Representations of Facial Trustworthiness
Authors: Hutchings Ryan J. , Freiburger Erin , Sim Mattea , Hugenberg Kurt
Published: February 2024

What makes faces seem trustworthy? We investigated how racial prejudice predicts the extent to which perceivers employ racially prototypical cues to infer trustworthiness from faces. We constructed participant-level computational models of trustworthiness and White-to-Black prototypicality from U.S. college students’ judgments of White (Study 1, N = 206) and Black–White morphed (Study 3, N = 386) synthetic faces. Although the average relationships between models differed across stimuli, both studies revealed that as participants’ anti-Black prejudice increased and/or intergroup contact decreased, so too did participants’ tendency to conflate White prototypical features with trustworthiness and Black prototypical features with untrustworthiness. Study 2 ( N = 324) and Study 4 ( N = 397) corroborated that untrustworthy faces constructed from participants with pro-White preferences appeared more Black prototypical to naive U.S. adults, relative to untrustworthy faces modeled from other participants. This work highlights the important role of racial biases in shaping impressions of facial trustworthiness.
Enhancing the arch-fired low-NOx performance with a throat overfire air for lowering NOx and hopper overheating
Authors: Cheng Shuting , Kuang Min , Chen Jiaqi , Qi Shengchen
Published: February 2024

Upon the background of China's dual-carbon energy and environment strategies and the requirements of green and sustainable development in the new era, how to gradually reduce coal consumption while at the same time enhance the efficient and clean use of coal and reduce pollutant emissions is attracting more and more attention. For a 600-MWe arch-fired furnace facing persistent challenges of high NO x output and an overheating risk in hopper as firing anthracite, a cascade-arched low-NO x and high-efficiency configuration (CLHC) was taken as an alternative to the existing multiple-injection and multiple-staging combustion technique (i.e., the MIMSCT, denoted as the reference furnace or technique in this study). In particular, along the furnace height the CLHC's overfire air (OFA) position in the burnout zone has an important influence on the low-NO x performance due to the shrunk furnace-arch space and a short upper furnace. Aiming at evaluating the OFA-location effect and confirming the CLHC in resolving the above problems, industrial-scale experiments and modeling were performed in the reference furnace and thereafter, the low-NO x characteristics with the CLHC was simulated considering three different OFA locations of the upper-furnace OFA, throat OFA, and arch OFA. In the OFA-location elevated order, the blending position of OFA and the main upward gas first lowered and then elevated, while the OFA penetration, overall combustion performance, and major low-NO x accomplishment indexes related to NO x yield and burnout loss initially improved but then deteriorated. As a result, the medium throat OFA presented the optimal low-NO x merit among the three setups, with the unburnt combustible of 5.3% in fly ash alongside NO x yield of 660 mg/m3 (O2 = 6%), respectively. By comparison to the reference technique, the CLHC gained a 30% NO x reduction ratio without affecting burnout and greatly relieved the hopper overheating issue via reducing sharply its temperatures by 400 K, thereby confirming the CLHC's viability. This study provided guidance on the safe furnace operations and reduction of pollutant emissions, benefiting the efficient and environmentally friendly usage of low-quality coals in industrial-scale furnaces.
A statistical framework for planning and analysing test–retest studies of repeatability
Authors: Danzer Moritz Fabian , Eveslage Maria , Görlich Dennis , Noto Benjamin
Published: February 2024

There is an increasing number of potential quantitative biomarkers that could allow for early assessment of treatment response or disease progression. However, measurements of such biomarkers are subject to random variability. Hence, differences of a biomarker in longitudinal measurements do not necessarily represent real change but might be caused by this random measurement variability. Before utilizing a quantitative biomarker in longitudinal studies, it is therefore essential to assess the measurement repeatability. Measurement repeatability obtained from test–retest studies can be quantified by the repeatability coefficient, which is then used in the subsequent longitudinal study to determine if a measured difference represents real change or is within the range of expected random measurement variability. The quality of the point estimate of the repeatability coefficient, therefore, directly governs the assessment quality of the longitudinal study. Repeatability coefficient estimation accuracy depends on the case number in the test–retest study, but despite its pivotal role, no comprehensive framework for sample size calculation of test–retest studies exists. To address this issue, we have established such a framework, which allows for flexible sample size calculation of test–retest studies, based upon newly introduced criteria concerning assessment quality in the longitudinal study. This also permits retrospective assessment of prior test–retest studies.
Do benzodiazepines reduce the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation?
Authors: Tran Lana , Hahn Lisa , Gill Shane , Ng Felicity , Clarke Patrick , Paterson Tom , Galletly Cherrie
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate the effect of concomitant use of benzodiazepines on the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (TR-MDD).

Methods

This is a retrospective study comparing rTMS treatment outcomes between patients taking benzodiazepines ( n = 59) and those who were not ( n = 136). Participants completed the HAM-A, HAM-D17, MADRS and ZUNG at baseline and at the end of treatment.

Results

Patients taking benzodiazepines during rTMS treatment did not show any difference in partial response, response or remission rates compared to patients not treated with benzodiazepines. There was a significant decrease ( p < .0001) in depression and anxiety scores from baseline to post-treatment among both groups.

Conclusions

Concomitant benzodiazepine treatment had no effect on the efficacy of rTMS treatment of TRD, contrary to previous research.
Multidimensional Approaches for Reforming Sports Programs Participation in Teachers Colleges: A Student Teacher Perspective
Authors: Simwanza Alfa , Paul Asish
Published: February 2024

Research indicates the diversity of benefits associated with student teachers’ participation in sports. Nevertheless, it has yet to be determined which sports and sports programs are frequently participated in and are more impactful. This study provides insights into student teachers’ perceptions toward participation, involvement in, and importance of sports. Data were collected in four teachers colleges in Tanzania by triangulating the data using surveys and interviews with 393 participants. Findings show that the majority participated in football, netball, and basketball while they participated less in gymnastics, swimming, and tennis. Competition sports programs, training, and coaching sports programs were the most frequently participated programs. However, screening programs for sports talent recognition and recreational sports programs were less participated. The data reveal significant differences in perceptions toward involvement in planning and assessing sports programs between the two gender groups (p < 0.05). It also showed insignificant differences in perceptions toward involvement in designing and setting sports programs between males and females (p > 0.05). Correspondingly, the data reveal insignificant differences between males and females in perceptions of the importance of sports programs (p > 0.05). However, there are challenges to participating in sports. The college administrators and sports stakeholders need to set more strategies to outspread the accessibility of sports programs. Not limited, but the possible strategies include appropriate deployment of resources, preparing different forums to support sports programs, requesting support from sponsors and other sports stakeholders and being more creative in organizing different sports programs.
Vibration isolation characteristics of a novel composite flexible vibration-damping foundation
Authors: Qin Yuxuan , Pang Fuzhen , Tang Yang , Lin Yaotao , Zhang Hang , Li Haichao
Published: February 2024

To address the challenge of low-frequency vibration in ships, we introduce a vibration isolation technique and a composite flexible vibration-damping foundation grounded in the principles of impedance equalization and the off-plane attenuation properties of surface waves. We utilize a fluid-structural coupling finite element method and experimental validation to analyze the effect of various properties of the liquid layer of the base. The results indicate that the composite foundation offers superior vibration isolation compared to traditional foundations across a frequency range of 10–500 Hz. Enhancements in the liquid’s viscosity and an increased layer thickness are found to significantly bolster the foundation’s ability to isolate vibrations. The relationship between liquid density and the vibration isolation performance of the base is not entirely positive. An increase in liquid density does provide some improvement to the vibration isolation performance at higher frequencies. Additionally, the presence of multiple liquid sacs within the foundation has a minimal influence on low-frequency isolation but proves to be increasingly beneficial at higher frequencies. Through this study, we aim to provide fresh perspectives and solutions for the attenuation and management of low-frequency vibrations in ships.
The Role of Psychopathology and Emotion Regulation in the Intergenerational Transmission of Childhood Abuse: A Family Study
Authors: Nimphy Cosima A. , Kullberg Marie-Louise J. , Pittner Katharina , Buisman Renate , van den Berg Lisa , Alink Lenneke , Bakermans-Kranenburg Marian , Elzinga Bernet M. , Tollenaar Marieke
Published: February 2024

Previous studies have shown that parents with a history of childhood abuse are at increased risk of perpetrating child abuse. To break the cycle of childhood abuse we need to better understand the mechanisms that play a role. In a cross-sectional extended family design including three generations ( N = 250, 59% female), we examined the possible mediating role of parental psychopathology and emotion regulation in the association between a history of childhood abuse and perpetrating child abuse. Parents’ own history of childhood abuse was associated with perpetrating abuse toward their children, and externalizing (but not internalizing) problems partially mediated this association statistically. Implicit and explicit emotion regulation were not associated with experienced or perpetrated abuse. Findings did not differ across fathers and mothers. Findings underline the importance of (early) treatment of externalizing problems in parents with a history of childhood abuse, to possibly prevent the transmission of child abuse.
What happens when private general practitioners receive incentivisation offers from pharmaceutical sales representatives? A qualitative study in Pakistan
Authors: Noor Muhammad Naveed , Rahman-Shepherd Afifah , Khan Sabeen Sharif , Hasan Rumina , Siddiqui Amna Rehana , Azam Iqbal , Bhutto Faiza , Isani Afshan Khurshid , Siddiqi Sameen , Khan Robyna Irshad , Shakoor Sadia , Khan Mishal
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Pharmaceutical incentivisation of physicians for profit maximisation is a well-documented health system challenge. This study examined general practitioners’ (GPs) reactions to pharmaceutical incentivisation offers in one region in Pakistan.

Methods

We used the Standardised Pharmaceutical Sales Representative (SPSR) method and qualitative interviews with GPs. SPSRs were field researchers representing mock pharmaceutical companies who recorded their observations of 267 GPs’ responses to pharmaceutical incentivisation offers. We triangulated SPSR data using qualitative interviews with a subset of the same GPs to gather information about how they interpreted different interaction outcomes.

Results

We found four major outcomes for GPs being offered incentives by pharmaceutical companies for prescribing medications. GPs might agree to make incentivisation deals, reject incentivisation offers, disallow PSRs to access them, or remain indeterminate with no clear indication of acceptance or rejection of incentivisation offers. GPs rejecting SPSRs’ incentivisation offers indicated having active commitments to other pharmaceutical companies, not being able to work with unheard-of companies, and asking SPSRs to return later.

Conclusions

The GP-pharmaceutical sales representative interaction that centres on profit-maximisation is complex as offers to engage in prescribing for mutual financial benefit are not taken up immediately. The SPSR method helps understand the extent of distortion of practices impacted by incentivisation. Such an understanding can support the development of strategies to control unethical behaviours.
Identification of high-risk beneficiaries in private healthcare insurance
Authors: Santos Adauto , Leal Gislaine Camila Lapasini , Balancieri Renato
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to apply the Knowledge Discovery in Databases process to find out if beneficiaries of a private healthcare insurance would belong, at least once, to the ‘very high cost’ and ‘complex cases’ groups throughout the 12 months after the month when algorithms were applied. Datasets were built containing information on beneficiaries’ effective use of their health plan, as well as their characteristics. Five machine learning algorithms were used, namely Random forest, Extra tree, Xgboost, Naive bayes and K-nearest neighbor. The K-nearest neighbor algorithm had a recall rate of 81.12%, 83.77% precision and an Area Under the Curve (AUC) value of 0.9045. The study also revealed that categorization occurs, on average, 8.11 months before a beneficiary entering, for the first time, a high-risk group, considering the dataset classification from January 2019 to June 2020.
Assessment of dementia knowledge in Indian speech-language pathology students
Authors: Chandrashekar Pooja , Nagaraj Hema
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) have a crucial role in assisting individuals with dementia due to the communication and swallowing challenges associated with the disease. As the number of dementia cases rises in India at an increasing rate, investigating the level of dementia knowledge of SLP students can offer insight into the preparedness of the healthcare system to meet this emerging demand.

Method

A cross-sectional survey was conducted on SLP students pursuing their final year undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral degrees from four universities across India. Dementia knowledge was assessed using the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale (DKAS) and information about previous dementia exposure (both formal and informal) was collected. The collected data were analysed using quantitative methods.

Results

A total of 220 students (64.70% response rate) completed the survey. Overall dementia knowledge was inadequate with an average score of 22.08 ± 10.06. Previous dementia exposure among the students was also found to be low and did not affect dementia knowledge scores.

Discussion

Despite the fundamental role SLPs play in the care of individuals with dementia, the lack of knowledge in this area emphasizes the need for enhancing dementia training programs through educational curricula and clinical placements.
Finding common ground on the threshold: An experiment in critical urban learning
Authors: Cognetti Francesca , De Carli Beatrice
Published: February 2024

The paper delves into the role of academic institutions in urban commoning, which involves the sharing and collaborative management of common resources. It specifically examines the impact of Practices of Urban Inclusion, an experimental learning programme, in fostering new forms of collaboration across places and institutions. This programme was co-designed and co-run by a network of four architecture and urban planning schools and three third-sector organisations across four European countries. The paper mobilises the concept of 'threshold spaces' by Stavros Stavrides to discuss if and how urban knowledge and learning can be co-produced and circulated ‘on the threshold’ between academia and civil society. Practices of Urban Inclusion is thus seen as a threshold space that aimed to bring different subjectivities and forms of knowledge into connection by foregrounding experiential knowledge, fostering collaborative learning, and connecting temporalities. The paper reflects on the key characteristics of the programme and highlights some of its commoning outcomes. We suggest that conceptualising knowledge co-production through ideas of commoning and threshold spatiality allows for more nuanced understandings of the dynamics of academia-civil society collaborations.
Biodigital stool series: Nature-based growing morphologies through additive manufacturing and generative design
Authors: Torreblanca-Díaz David A , Velásquez Peña Juan Pablo , Banda Pablo
Published: February 2024

Biodigital Architecture and Design emerges in the intersection between nature-based design and digital technologies. This article presents the results of a project that aimed to integrate three-dimensional growth patterns from nature into a stool design series through Computational Design and Additive Manufacturing methods. The project methodology includes (1) Pattern from nature selection, (2) Generative design, (3) 3D printing, including scale models and prototypes, (4) Compression tests, and (5) Generative optimization. Findings indicate that the branching pattern was the lightest-weight pattern while showing the highest specific resistance compared to the other models evaluated. Branching pattern also took the least amount of time and material to print, these findings contribute to the decision-making process for future work. Regarding computational design method, it resulted in several design alternatives, with complex, unpredictable and efficient mechanical behavior geometries. Future work would include to a variety of patterns from nature, generative design, optimizations, and prototypes.
Botulinum Toxin to Improve the Prognosis of Skin Transplantation: A Short Narrative Review
Authors: Hu Xiangyan , Liu Yang , Yang Fengying , Hu Weigang , Sun Xifeng
Published: February 2024

Skin transplantation is a traditional and well-established method of repairing skin loss, especially deep second-degree postburn wounds. Complications often happen amid the healing process, including necrosis and skin contracture, which has raised widespread concern from patients and doctors. Since the first recorded medical application of botulinum toxin for strabismus, accumulating evidence has enclosed all-round potential of botulinum toxin, more than aesthetic management. In recent decades, botulinum toxin also has been revealed to improve the prognosis of skin grafts. This literature review aims to briefly summarize the history and latest advances of its use for skin transplantation.
An ERP Study of Face Processing in Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and Socially Isolated Individuals from the Community
Authors: Catalano Lauren T. , Wynn Jonathan K. , Eisenberger Naomi I. , Horan William P. , Lee Junghee , McCleery Amanda , Miklowitz David J. , Reavis Eric A. , Reddy L. Felice , Green Michael F.
Published: February 2024

People with schizophrenia (SCZ) and bipolar disorder (BD) have impairments in processing social information, including faces. The neural correlates of face processing are widely studied with the N170 ERP component. However, it is unclear whether N170 deficits reflect neural abnormalities associated with these clinical conditions or differences in social environments. The goal of this study was to determine whether N170 deficits would still be present in SCZ and BD when compared with socially isolated community members. Participants included 66 people with SCZ, 37 with BD, and 125 community members (76 “Community-Isolated”; 49 “Community-Connected”). Electroencephalography was recorded during a face processing task in which participants identified the gender of a face, the emotion of a face (angry, happy, neutral), or the number of stories in a building. We examined group differences in the N170 face effect (greater amplitudes for faces vs buildings) and the N170 emotion effect (greater amplitudes for emotional vs neutral expressions). Groups significantly differed in levels of social isolation (Community-Isolated > SCZ > BD = Community-Connected). SCZ participants had significantly reduced N170 amplitudes to faces compared with both community groups, which did not differ from each other. The BD group was intermediate and did not differ from any group. There were no significant group differences in the processing of specific emotional facial expressions. The N170 is abnormal in SCZ even when compared to socially isolated community members. Hence, the N170 seems to reflect a social processing impairment in SCZ that is separate from level of social isolation.
Is Visual Prediction Impaired in Adolescents with Autism spectrum Disorder? Event-Related Potentials in a Cued Visual GO/NOGO Task
Authors: Häger Linda A. , Høyland Anne L. , Kropotov Juri D. , Åsberg Johnels Jakob , Weidle Benhard , Hollup Stig , Gillberg Christopher , Billstedt Eva , Ogrim Geir
Published: February 2024

Aim: Deviant visual processing has been observed in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), manifesting as decreased P1 and P2 components of visual event-related potentials (ERPs). Alterations have been attributed to a failure of Bayesian inference, characterized by hypo-activation of top-down predictive abilities. To test this hypothesis, we measured the visual negativity (vN) as an ERP index of visual preparation hypothesized to mirror predictive brain activity. Method: ERPs in a cued visual GO/NOGO task in 63 adolescents with ASD (IQ > 70, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder excluded) were compared with ERPs in a sex- and age-matched group of 60 typically developing (TD) controls. Results: The behavioral variables (omissions, commissions, reaction time, and reaction time variability), as well as ERP components reflecting, among other processes, cognitive control (contingent negative variation, P3 GO, P3 NOGO, N2 NOGO) did not differ between the groups. There were group differences in visually based ERPs. Besides P1 and P2 differences, the vN component differentiated the 2 groups with the highest effect size ( d  =  0.74).Conclusion: This ERP study lends support to the hypothesis suggesting that a Bayesian hypo-prediction could underlie unique perceptual experiences in individuals with ASD. This could lead to a predisposition to perceive the world with reduced influence and modulation from contextual cues, prior experiences, and pre-existing expectations.
Portable Headband Electroencephalogram in the Detection of Absence Epilepsy
Authors: Nordli Douglas R. , Fives Kaila , Galan Fernando
Published: February 2024

The accuracy of headband electroencephalogram (EEG) was compared to traditional EEG in pediatric patients with absence epilepsy. This study enrolled 10 patients with previously diagnosed absence epilepsy and examined the concordance of headband EEG and traditional EEG in the follow-up EEG of treated absence epilepsy. The study found a concordant result in 80% of cases providing a signal that absence epilepsy is an effective target for headband EEG. The study showcases a need for further research in headband EEG technology and continued improvements in technology.
The influence of coaching behaviors, experience, and training on children's physical activity levels during youth sport practices
Authors: Shull Emily Ruxton , Pate Russell R , McIver Kerry , Monsma Eva , McLain Alexander C
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to examine how coaching behaviors, coaching experience, and coach training relate to physical activity (PA) levels of children during their participation in a youth sport program. Youth soccer teams (N = 27) serving children ages 6–11 years were directly observed during one practice using momentary time-sampling procedures consisting of 30-s intervals (10-s observation, 20-s recording). Team coaches reported prior coaching experience, training, and demographic characteristics. Multilevel logistic regression was conducted to describe associations between coaching behaviors and intensity of children's PA. Interaction terms were added to the models to determine if the associations differed across girls-only, boys-only, and coed teams. ANOVAs were used to describe associations between coaching experience, coach training, and team PA level. Children were more likely to engage in moderate or vigorous PA when coaches were watching without verbal feedback (Odds Ratio [OR], 3.2, 95% CI = 1.70–5.83) or watching with verbal feedback (OR, 2.1, 95% CI = 1.27–3.59), compared to when the coach was disengaged, regardless of team sex composition. The number of prior seasons coached was positively related to team PA levels. These findings can be used to inform coaching strategies for promoting increased PA during youth sport practices.
Recovery management in sport: Overview and outcomes of a nine-year multicenter research program
Authors: Wiewelhove Thimo , Schneider Christoph , Kellmann Michael , Pfeiffer Mark , Meyer Tim , Ferrauti Alexander
Published: February 2024

The nine-year multicenter research project, titled REGman—Optimization of Training and Competition: Management of Regeneration in Elite Sports—aimed to advance the understanding of recovery management in sports and generate practical recommendations. In this article, we outline the overarching research program that links the specific research strands and outputs during the two federal funding cycles (2012–2021) and summarize the main project findings. The two-stage conceptual framework involved investigating monitoring measures for short-term fatigue and recovery, as well as assessing the efficacy of various recovery interventions. These interventions encompassed psychological relaxation and recovery strategies, sleep, cooling techniques like precooling, percooling, cold water immersion, or whole-body cryotherapy, compression garments, active recovery, stretching, heating interventions such as sauna or contrast water therapy, massage, and foam rolling. The findings revealed inconclusive or marginal effects of recovery interventions at the group level, while indicating possible interindividual differences in responses. Additionally, the findings highlighted the effectiveness of diverse monitoring measures, showing satisfactory sensitivity in tracking performance changes related to fatigue and recovery. The use of individualized reference ranges significantly improved classification accuracy compared to group-based reference ranges. Athletes and coaches are encouraged to prioritize fundamental aspects of training and recovery: meticulous training planning and execution, effective sleep management, and proper nutrition. Furthermore, monitoring and analyzing individual responses, even though it demands suitable methodologies and presents challenges in high-performance sports environments, can yield valuable insights for personalized recovery management. If these aspects are comprehensively addressed, and resources allow, additional recovery strategies might be explored.
Decoding the decade: Analyzing the evolution of technical and tactical performance in elite padel tennis (2011–2021)
Authors: Ungureanu Alexandru Nicolae , Lupo Corrado , Contardo Matteo , Brustio Paolo Riccardo
Published: February 2024

Despite the recent popularity of padel tennis and extensive scientific research on technical and tactical performance, anthropometric, biomechanical, and physiological characteristics, there is still a lack of long-term retrospective investigation. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to provide the changes in these indicators over a decade spanning from 2011 to 2021. The sample included 45 (i.e. 100 sets; 957 games; 5743 points; and 54,918 shots) professional men's matches (Padel Pro Tour and World Padel Tour finals and semifinals) from three different sports seasons (2011, 2016, and 2021). KPIs related to time motion and technical and tactical analysis (i.e. unforced errors and winner shots) were examined. A series of linear mixed models was performed to investigate difference among competition years (2011, 2016, and 2021). Comparing the evolution of the game across the observed decade, it emerged a more progressive intense game (more explosive and rapid playing actions), decreasing number of shots per point (8.8 vs 9.5), and an increasing number of shots per minute (44.2 vs 40.0). Further, an increase in the importance of efficiency in overhead shots (unforced errors from bandeja/vibora +116% from 2011 to 2016) and responding to serve shots (unforced errors from serve return +17% from 2011 to 2021) emerged. Therefore, the present findings are able to highlight the evolution playing of professional padel (i.e. fewer shots per point, shorter effective playing time, decreased average point durations, higher number of shots per minute), thus providing references to potential valuable training plans.
Middle-phalanx-base radiographic morphology and its clinical implications
Authors: Tay Poi Hoon , Lim Zhixue , Cheah Andre Eu Jin
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to establish normative values for the teardrop angle at the base of the middle phalanx. Our results showed a consistent mean teardrop angle in the range of 50°–51°, with no statistically significant difference observed between digits.

Level of evidence: III