bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Salivary Gland Malignancy: A Review on Post-Operative Follow-Up Duration and Investigations
Authors: Pathmanathan Yuvarahj , Prabhu Vinod , Jafari Khadija
Published: July 2024

Salivary gland cancers (SGC) are rare neoplasms that exhibit a wide array of histological heterogeneities. Most patients presenting with SGCs are asymptomatic, as they are typically slow-growing and localized. Primary surgical resection is the cornerstone treatment for SGCs and radiotherapy is performed in selected cases. There is no consensus on concrete standard post-operative guidelines. Patients are followed-up for years, however an agreed duration of follow-up is less elucidated in the literature present on the subject. Distant metastases are the primary cause of treatment failure. Post-operative diagnostic evidence of disease recurrence or distant metastases is heavily guided by radiological examinations. Patients with SGCs have better outcomes with a well-structured and lengthy follow-up plan. This review aims to suggest an appropriate follow-up duration and radiological modalities used post-operatively for SGC patients.
PyFMLab: Open-source software for atomic force microscopy microrheology data analysis
Authors: López-Alonso Javier , Eroles Mar , Janel Sébastien , Berardi Massimiliano , Pellequer Jean-Luc , Dupres Vincent , Lafont Frank , Rico Felix
Published: July 2024

Background Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is one of the main techniques used to characterize the mechanical properties of soft biological samples and biomaterials at the nanoscale. Despite efforts made by the AFM community to promote open-source data analysis tools, standardization continues to be a significant concern in a field that requires common analysis procedures. AFM-based mechanical measurements involve applying a controlled force to the sample and measure the resulting deformation in the so-called force-distance curves. These may include simple approach and retract or oscillatory cycles at various frequencies (microrheology). To extract quantitative parameters, such as the elastic modulus, from these measurements, AFM measurements are processed using data analysis software. Although open tools exist and allow obtaining the mechanical properties of the sample, most of them only include standard elastic models and do not allow the processing of microrheology data. In this work, we have developed an open-source software package (called PyFMLab, as of python force microscopy laboratory) capable of determining the viscoelastic properties of samples from both conventional force-distance curves and microrheology measurements. Methods PyFMLab has been written in Python, which provides an accessible syntax and sufficient computational efficiency. The software features were divided into separate, self-contained libraries to enhance code organization and modularity and to improve readability, maintainability, testability, and reusability. To validate PyFMLab, two AFM datasets, one composed of simple force curves and another including oscillatory measurements, were collected on HeLa cells. Results The viscoelastic parameters obtained on the two datasets analysed using PyFMLab were validated against data processing proprietary software and against validated MATLAB routines developed before obtaining equivalent results. Conclusions Its open-source nature and versatility makes PyFMLab an open-source solution that paves the way for standardized viscoelastic characterization of biological samples from both force-distance curves and microrheology measurements.
A literature review of “lawful” text and data mining.
Authors: Vrakas Giorgos
Published: July 2024

Text and data mining (TDM) is a process, typically automated, that looks for patterns in data that may otherwise remain unnoticed. In a world where data driven solutions play a progressively more important role, TDM has become a vital tool in sectors ranging from medicine, to commerce, gaining widespread attraction. Nevertheless, a variety of regulatory frameworks not always specifically attuned towards regulating TDM continue to apply concurrently. The literature within the context of regulatory frameworks governing TDM is a fragmented piecemeal of valuable insights into what “lawful” TDM resembles. This literature review adopts a grounded theory approach analysing 82 pieces of literature, collating views regarding “lawful” TDM, ultimately providing a holistic assessment of academics’ and practitioners’ views and opinions regarding the regulatory framework which governs TDM. A total of 7 categories were identified and each of these are analysed. Tables are provided in the Appendix (Refer to the extended data) highlighting which scholarly works were used for each section of the literature review, but also how those works were used. It is ultimately concluded that the regulatory frameworks that apply to users conducting TDM are multifaceted, and ever-changing on a case-by-case basis. There is an ever-growing need for a holistic interpretation of the regulatory frameworks which apply, creating a map which would allow for users conducting TDM to navigate this complex web of legal rules.
STRAIGHTMORPH: A Voice Morphing Tool for Research in Voice Communication Sciences
Authors: Belin P , Kawahara H
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this paper is to make easily available to the scientific community an efficient voice morphing tool called STRAIGHTMORPH and provide a short tutorial on its use with examples. STRAIGHTMORPH consists of a set of Matlab functions allowing the generation of high-quality, parametrically-controlled morphs of an arbitrary number of voice samples. A first step consists in extracting an ‘mObject’ for each voice sample, with accurate tracking of the fundamental frequency contour and manual definition of Time and Frequency anchors corresponding across samples to be morphed. The second step consists in parametrically combining the mObjects to generate novel synthetic stimuli, such as gender, identity or emotion continua, or random combinations. Although STRAIGHTMORPH has been designed for human voices it can work well with other types of sounds such as non-human primate vocalizations.
Making a living moment more resonant: an exploration of the role of the artist in co-creative work with people living with dementia
Authors: West Julian , Zeilig Hannah , Cape Timothy , Payne Lucy , Whistler Clare
Published: July 2024

Background Despite a growth in interest in recent years in the benefits of working co-creatively with the Arts for people living with dementia, little attention has been given to understanding the role of the professional artists within this context. Our main question here is ‘How do professional artists apply their skills and knowledge in co-creative arts groups with people with dementia?’ This paper has been informed by the insights gained from a series of conversations, observations and journals that were kept by four UK based artists (two musicians and two dancers) who reflexively interrogated what they were doing during the course of an 8-week co-creative arts project with people living with dementia. Methods The research used an empirical case study methodology, with the authors adopting a thematic approach to the analysis of the data. Results Thematic analysis resulted in three main themes: Authenticity, Enabling Risk and Togetherness. These themes characterise the skills, techniques and specialised knowledge used by the artists during the co-creative sessions. Conclusions Following this analysis, the article argues that the beneficial effects for people living with dementia of co-creative art-based work come about through the conscious application by the artists of their shared skills and knowledge, acquired through training and ongoing artistic practice. Rather than an assumption that ‘The Arts’ are in themselves beneficial for people living with dementia, we must consider the active role played by the artists who are so integral to the process.
DIGITAL REALITY AS A NEW MANIFESTATION PHENOMENA OF BORDER CULTURE
Authors: Kulyan-Kozionova Maria E. , Shimolina Maria V. , Shchekina Elena G.
Published: July 2024

This article is dedicated to the analysis of the phenomenon of cultural liminality and its manifestation through digital space, opening new possibilities for cross-cultural interaction and creating hybrid cultural forms. Studying the liminality of culture at the intersection of digital and real spaces will enhance our understanding of contemporary cultural transformations and current realities. The evolution of digital reality necessitates constant revision of theoretical approaches.
Purpose. The aim of the research is to study the phenomenon of cultural liminality in the context of the development of digital reality.
Methodology. Using a systematic approach and the historical-comparative method, materials from domestic and foreign sources were summarized and systematized.
Results. The study provides a redefined concept of digital reality and formulates specific criteria and characteristics of the liminal state of culture. Analysis of various approaches shows that continuous hybridization of cultural forms is occurring due to the internet, necessitating the study of digital space to understand contemporary cultural processes. In the context of globalization and digitalization, issues of self-identity become particularly relevant, and the liminal cultural spaces of the internet help people rethink their identities.
Practical implications. Studying the liminality of culture at the intersection of digital and real spaces will deepen our understanding of contemporary cultural transformations necessary for effective communication in society.
Comprehensive review of unmanned aerial vehicle application to safety mining management
Authors: Do Thao Phuong Thi , Long Quoc Nguyen  , Le Hung Trinh  , Vambol Viola
Published: July 2024

The increasing interest of users in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology has developed new fields of application for it. Presently, UAVs are working in so many areas and the mining industry has shown grown interest in the use of UAVs for routine operations in surface, underground mines, and mine waste dumps. In this paper, a thorough review has been performed on the application of UAVs in mine safety management. Systematic reviews were conducted to summarize the results of over 60 papers published during the 2010-2021 period. The study offers a review of the most common applications involving mine safety, the styles of flying control, and the UAV types exploited. The paper also contributes to the identification of prevalent data acquired by sensors and points out the most popular processing techniques of aerial imagery. The obtained results revealed that UAVs are used at mining sites for safety purposes including mine surface displacements, stability monitoring, working environment, coal fire identification, drill and blast, and mine waste dump operations. This research hopes to provide a technical reference, expanding the knowledge and recognition of UAV monitoring to manage mine safety, as well as an assessment of applications in mining activities.
Case Article—Three Mountain Communications: Fairness Considerations for Workplace Task Allocation
Authors: Wu Wei , Sharma Rashmi , Bansal Saurabh
Published: July 2024

The case study has two primary objectives: incorporating fairness considerations in managerial decision making and introducing task allocation using an optimization model. The case focuses on a call center that faces the issue of daily task allocation. The current self-selection-based allocation protocol has created friction among employees. To enable employee satisfaction and boost team morale, the call center needs to develop an allocation model that is perceived to be fair by employees. The case tends to elicit enthusiastic participation from students, especially on the theme of workplace fairness and the role of gender and individual constraints on employees’ ability to excel at the workplace. Overall, students believed the case was challenging and that it provided them skills to combine (i) optimization modeling and (ii) qualitative considerations for workplace fairness that they studied in management and leadership courses.

Supplemental Material: The Three Mountains Student Shell Excel spreadsheet is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ited.2023.0044ca . The Teaching Note and the Three Mountains Solution Final Excel spreadsheet are available at https://www.informs.org/Publications/Subscribe/Access-Restricted-Materials .
Influence of smoking on changes in indicators of bronchitis, asthma and lung cancer - comparison on the example of Poland, Malta and other European Union countries
Authors: Lewandowska Klaudia Sandra , Calleja Neville
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Smoking is associated with respiratory diseases. Despite declining smoking rates, asthma and chronic bronchitis cases rose between 2014 and 2019. Quitting smoking is vital for managing asthma and reducing the risks of bronchitis and lung cancer.
Aim. A correlational study of smoking prevalence and its association with asthma, bronchitis and lung cancer in people from Malta, Poland and the EU in 2008/2014/2019.
Materials and methods. Integration and comparison of statistical data from EUROSTAT – (EHIS) 2008/2014/2019, ISAAC; ESPAD, 2014/2015, ECIS 2020.
Results. Smoking habits exhibit notable gender disparities, with 24% of Polish men and 23% of Maltese men being regular smokers, compared to women (Poland – 15%, Malta – 16%). While male smoking rates have declined, especially in Poland, female rates persist. In 2019, asthma affected 5.6% of the EU adult population, with Poland at 4.1% and Malta at 6%. Chronic bronchitis
is more prevalent in Poland (3%) than Malta (1%). In 2020, lung cancer rates among men varied slightly between Poland and Malta (120.0; 100.3 per 100.000). However, the incidence among women is twice as high in Poland (53.1; 23.9 per 100.000).
Conclusions. Malta’s elevated asthma rate, despite comparable smoking rates, hints at additional risk factors like traffic. Poland’s increased bronchitis rate likely stems from higher historical smoking. The doubled lung cancer incidence in Polish women suggests a passive smoking connection. The burden of bronchitis intensifies due to high smoking rates in men over 50. Addressing smoking rates can potentially address respiratory disease rates, but other risk factors should also be identified and managed.

Keywords: tobacco smoking, asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer.
Diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems as the basis for obtaining a disability certificate among patients from Lublin in 2006-2021
Authors: Nieradko-Iwanicka Barbara , Pawłowska Paulina , Skorupa Aleksandra , Nowińska Aleksandra
Published: July 2024

Introduction. People with disabilities are individuals with full rights, who find themselves in a handicapped situation due to environmental, economic and social barriers that they cannot overcome in the same way as other people. About 15% of the global population live with disability. The number of patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and pulmonary diseases is increasing.
Aim. The aim of the study was to find out if CVD and lung diseases were among the leading causes of issuing disability certificates in Lublin in 2006-2021.
Material and methods. The data was obtained through a query at the Municipal Disability Adjudication Council in Lublin. We obtained anonymized data from years 2006-2021 referring to 16+ population.
Results. In the years 2006-2021 Municipal Disability Adjudication Council in Lublin issued 76,581 disability certificates for persons over 16 years of age. Out of that number 15,648 (20%) certificates were issued due to CVD and pulmonary diseases. These were on the second position among causes of disability after musculoskeletal diseases. The certificate recipients were mainly men > 60years of age with secondary or vocational education. In all age groups unemployed persons predominated.
Conclusion. The cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases were the second common reason of issuing disability certificates to adults in Lublin in the years 2006-2021.

Keywords: disability, cardiovascular diseases, lung diseases.
Resonance of Climate Crisis News Discourse in Indonesian Online Media: Reflections on Niklas Luhmann's Ecological Communication Theory Perspective
Authors: Astuti Erika Febri , Inayah Fitriana , Dahana Abyzan Syahadin Bagja
Published: July 2024

Indonesia, an archipelago significantly vulnerable to the climate crisis, faces numerous natural disasters impacting various sectors. Despite the critical need for public awareness and proactive measures, media coverage of climate crisis issues in Indonesia remains limited. This study investigates the level of resonance in online media reporting on the climate crisis from January to December 2023, focusing on keywords related to climate change, forest fires, and air pollution. The research uses topic modeling and Niklas Luhmann's systems theory to examine how four major Indonesian online media outlets address climate crisis issues. The findings reveal that while kompas.com and detik.com show consistent coverage, ANTARA and CNBC Indonesia place less emphasis on these topics. The study highlights the need for enhanced and more impactful media coverage to raise public awareness and drive meaningful action against the climate crisis. The results underscore the importance of media collaboration with governments, NGOs, and communities to increase the resonance of climate crisis issues in public discourse. Future research should explore the reasons behind the variation in media coverage and its impact on public perception and policy decisions, including the role of social media platforms.
The Relationship of the 4P Model to Purchasing Decisions: Evidence on Residential Property
Authors: Naida Andi Shopia , Anita Rossy Dwi , Arsyad Muh. Rezky Pangeran Syafar
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the application of the 4P model (product, price, place, promotion) in analyzing the factors that influence house purchasing decisions in the Anging Mammiri Residence housing complex, Makassar City. Through quantitative research with a descriptive approach and collecting primary data through questionnaires, validity and reliability tests were carried out on these variables to ensure the robustness of the variables and the formation of a linear relationship between the variables. The population in this research is the number of consumers who have bought a house at Anging Mammiri Residence, Makassar City from 2016 to 2022. In this research, the sample was taken using the Census Sampling technique where the researcher took the entire sample or part of that number. Questionnaires were distributed to all home buyers totaling 131 respondents. However, at the data processing stage, 61 respondents did not return the questionnaire. So, the number of samples used was 70 respondents. The research results found that product, price, location and promotion had a significant and positive influence on the decision to purchase a house at Anging Mammiri Residence, Makassar City. This research contributes to understanding the elements of the marketing mix and analyzes the 4P model in shaping consumer decisions and its implications for the property market. Apart from that, it contributes to the government as a source of literature in formulating appropriate policies and in building infrastructure and regional development such as roads and other public facilities.
Consultant practice in heart failure: reflections and evidence
Authors: Hyland Rebecca , Bone Rebecca
Published: July 2024

New opportunities for consultant practice roles in heart failure services are lacking in the UK, but posts are developing across the country. This article discusses consultant practice, using reflective accounts from two consultant nurses who practice in different care settings to explore how their experiences led to their current roles. The definition of consultant practice and how ‘imposter syndrome’ could impact success are also discussed.
Cutting-edge technology application for prostate disease management in Indonesia: implementation of Healthcare 5.0 towards Indonesia’s Golden Vision 2045
Authors: Hamid Agus Rizal Ardy Hariandy
Published: July 2024

[No abstract available]
Association between immune system parameter and clinical characteristics among patients with solid cancer
Authors: Cahyanur Rahmat , Widhani Alvina , Pantoro Nico Iswanto , Madadika Annisa Tsana
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND Lymphopenia has been reported to be a major predictor of chemotherapy-related toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between neutrophils, lymphocytes, CD4, and CD8 in solid cancer patients and cancer clinical characteristics.
METHODS This was a cross-sectional study of patients who will undergo chemotherapy at the Hematology and Medical Oncology Clinic, Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, from June to September 2023. Clinical characteristics, CD4 and CD8 levels, and neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were assessed at the first visit. A comparative test was carried out on the patients’ average CD4, CD8, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts.
RESULTS Types of cancer were associated with CD4 levels. Patients with head and neck cancer had lower CD4 levels (411.3 [119.3–1,427.5] cells/mm³) compared with colorectal (514.7 [129.2–861.3] cells/mm³), breast and gynecological (567.5 [180.1–939 cells/mm³), and other cancers (681.4 [175.1–2,056.9] cells/mm³), with p = 0.009. Patients aged ≥40 years had higher CD8 levels than those aged <40 years (376.4 [142.8–1,293.1] cells/mm³ versus 565.3 [185.9–1,944] cells/mm³, p = 0.01). Additionally, lymphocyte count was associated with cancer type, with the lowest number in head and neck cancer (1,380 [280–2,660] μl, p = 0.044).
CONCLUSIONS CD4 levels and lymphocyte counts were associated with the cancer type, whereas CD8 levels were influenced by age.
Supercontinua from integrated gallium nitride waveguides
Authors: Fan Weichen , Ludwig Markus , Rousseau Ian , Arabadzhiev Ivo , Ruhnke Bastian , Wildi Thibault , Herr Tobias
Published: July 2024

Supercontinua are broadband spectra that are essential to optical spectroscopy, sensing, imaging, and metrology. They are generated from ultrashort laser pulses through nonlinear frequency conversion in fibers, bulk media, and chip-integrated waveguides. For any generating platform, balancing the competing criteria of strong nonlinearity, transparency, and absence of multiphoton absorption is a key challenge. Here, we explore supercontinuum generation in integrated gallium nitride (GaN) waveguides, which combine a high Kerr nonlinearity, mid-infrared transparency, and a large bandgap that prevents two- and three-photon absorption in the technologically important telecom C-band, where compact erbium-based pump lasers exist. Using this type of laser, we demonstrate tunable dispersive waves and gap-free spectra extending to almost 4 µm in wavelength, which is relevant to functional group chemical sensing. Additionally, leveraging the material’s second-order nonlinearity, we implement on-chip f-to-2f interferometry to detect the pump laser’s carrier-envelope offset frequency, which enables precision metrology. These results demonstrate the versatility of GaN-on-sapphire as a platform for broadband nonlinear photonics.
Bound-state-in-continuum guided modes in a multilayer electro-optically active photonic integrated circuit platform: erratum
Authors: Han Kyunghun , LeBrun Thomas W. , Aksyuk Vladimir A.
Published: July 2024

This erratum includes additional references omitted from the original paper [Optica 11, 706 (2024)OPTIC82334-253610.1364/OPTICA.516044].
Diversity Governance: Gestaltung eines Diversitätssensiblen Ansatzes zur Automatisierten Identifikation und Reduktion Impliziter Diskriminierung in der Unternehmenskommunikation
Authors: Göritz Lorena , Beinke Jan Heinrich , Stattkus Daniel , Thomas Oliver
Published: July 2024

Diversity-Programme verfolgen nicht nur das Ziel, wirtschaftliche Potenziale zu erschließen, sondern auch, die Entwicklung von Unternehmen hin zu einer zeitgemäßen und ethisch vertretbaren Unternehmenskultur zu fördern. Trotz der positiven Absichten der Unternehmen, Diversity-Programme umzusetzen, zeigen aktuelle Daten nur langsame Fortschritte in diesem Bereich. Mit der vorliegenden Studie wird ein innovativer Ansatz zur Förderung von Diversity in Unternehmen vorgestellt, der darauf ausgerichtet ist, implizite Diskriminierung in der Unternehmenskommunikation abzubauen. Ähnlich der Corporate Governance zielt die im Folgenden vorgestellte Diversity Governance darauf ab, die Handlungsspielräume von Mitarbeitenden und Führungskräften so zu gestalten, dass sie dazu befähigt werden, im Sinne von Diversity-Prinzipien zu kommunizieren. Im Rahmen dieser Studie werden Ergebnisse zur Konzeption und zur technischen Umsetzung einer Diversity-Governance-Software präsentiert, die Daten der Unternehmenskommunikation z. B. in Form von Texten und Bildern automatisiert auf implizite Diskriminierung analysiert. Eine automatisierte Prüfung der Unternehmenskommunikation durch Verfahren der Künstlichen Intelligenz (KI) bietet einen entscheidenden Vorteil hinsichtlich der Geschwindigkeit und wird bei großen Analyseeinträgen auch nicht durch menschliche Phänomene wie Ermüdungseffekte in ihrer Konsistenz beeinflusst. Neben der Prüfung ist die Software auf die Weiterentwicklung der analysierten Texte und Bilder programmiert und unterstützt dabei durch KI-basierte Empfehlungen, bspw. für alternative Formulierungen. Um Feedback zur Konzeption und zur technischen Implementierung der Software zu erhalten, wurden zwölf Interviews mit Expert:innen aus dem Themenbereich Diversity durchgeführt, um aus den Ergebnissen praktische Handlungsempfehlungen für die erfolgreiche Umsetzung von Diversity Governance abzuleiten.
Wnt signaling modulates the response to DNA damage in the Drosophila wing imaginal disc by regulating the EGFR pathway
Authors: Ewen-Campen Ben , Perrimon Norbert
Published: July 2024

Despite the deep conservation of the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway, cells in different contexts vary widely in their susceptibility to DNA damage and their propensity to undergo apoptosis as a result of genomic lesions. One of the cell signaling pathways implicated in modulating the DDR is the highly conserved Wnt pathway, which is known to promote resistance to DNA damage caused by ionizing radiation in a variety of human cancers. However, the mechanisms linking Wnt signal transduction to the DDR remain unclear. Here, we use a genetically encoded system in Drosophila to reliably induce consistent levels of DNA damage in vivo, and demonstrate that canonical Wnt signaling in the wing imaginal disc buffers cells against apoptosis in the face of DNA double-strand breaks. We show that Wg, the primary Wnt ligand in Drosophila, activates epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling via the ligand-processing protease Rhomboid, which, in turn, modulates the DDR in a Chk2-, p53-, and E2F1-dependent manner. These studies provide mechanistic insight into the modulation of the DDR by the Wnt and EGFR pathways in vivo in a highly proliferative tissue. Furthermore, they reveal how the growth and patterning functions of Wnt signaling are coupled with prosurvival, antiapoptotic activities, thereby facilitating developmental robustness in the face of genomic damage.
Evaluating and mitigating unfairness in multimodal remote mental health assessments
Authors: Jiang Zifan , Seyedi Salman , Griner Emily , Abbasi Ahmed , Rad Ali Bahrami , Kwon Hyeokhyen , Cotes Robert O. , Clifford Gari D.
Published: July 2024

Research on automated mental health assessment tools has been growing in recent years, often aiming to address the subjectivity and bias that existed in the current clinical practice of the psychiatric evaluation process. Despite the substantial health and economic ramifications, the potential unfairness of those automated tools was understudied and required more attention. In this work, we systematically evaluated the fairness level in a multimodal remote mental health dataset and an assessment system, where we compared the fairness level in race, gender, education level, and age. Demographic parity ratio (DPR) and equalized odds ratio (EOR) of classifiers using different modalities were compared, along with the F1 scores in different demographic groups. Post-training classifier threshold optimization was employed to mitigate the unfairness. No statistically significant unfairness was found in the composition of the dataset. Varying degrees of unfairness were identified among modalities, with no single modality consistently demonstrating better fairness across all demographic variables. Post-training mitigation effectively improved both DPR and EOR metrics at the expense of a decrease in F1 scores. Addressing and mitigating unfairness in these automated tools are essential steps in fostering trust among clinicians, gaining deeper insights into their use cases, and facilitating their appropriate utilization.
Psychopathy, psychological distress, and treatment history among perpetrators of intimate partner femicide, homicide, and other violent crimes in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Di Marco Martín Hernán , Baranyi Gergő , Evans Dabney P.
Published: July 2024

Intimate partner femicide—the killing of women based on their gender by their former or current partners—is a global long-standing manifestation of violence against women. Despite the enactment of femicide-specific laws in Latin America, femicide rates have remained relatively constant throughout the last decade. Often perpetrators are pathologized as suffering from mental illness, yet the data on their mental health status is still relatively unknown. Thus, more research is needed to understand the extent of poor mental health among these individuals. The purpose of this study was to compare levels of psychopathy, psychological distress, and treatment history among an all-male sample of intimate partner femicide perpetrators, male-male homicide perpetrators, and offenders convicted of other violent crimes in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This study utilized a cross-sectional survey based on data derived from a two-stage sampling strategy. The questionnaire included two standardized instruments for the measurement of psychopathy (revised Psychopathy checklist and the Levenson Self-Report Psychopathy scale) and one for general distress (Spanish version of 12-item General Health Questionnaire). The final sample included 205 prisoners including 68 intimate partner femicide perpetrators, 73 homicide perpetrators, and 64 individuals convicted of other violent crimes. There were no significant differences across these groups based on their socio-demographic characteristics. Participants did not differ in terms of their psychopathology; however, femicide perpetrators were statistically more likely to experience psychological distress. In addition, femicide perpetrators self-reported more prior episodes of mental and substance use treatments. The findings of increased psychological distress and prior mental health and substance use treatment among femicide perpetrators suggest that there may be missed opportunities for femicide prevention within the public health subspecialties of mental health and substance use disorders. This study suggests that femicide perpetrators likely require distinctive interventions, including self-assessments and harm mitigation tactics, to prevent their potential for femicide perpetration.
Effect of soybean and seaweed-based diets on growth performance, feed utilization, and gut microbiota of tilapia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Viagem Leonildo dos Anjo , Hakizimana Jean Nepomuscene , Rumisha Cyrus , Cerozi Brunno da Silva , Misinzo Gerald
Published: July 2024

Tilapia, a significant aquaculture species globally, relies heavily on feed for its production. While numerous studies have investigated the impact of soybean and seaweed-based diets on tilapia, a comprehensive understanding remains elusive. This review aimed at evaluating and synthesizing the existing literature on these diets’ effects, focusing on growth performance, feed utilization, and gut microbiota. A systematic search of databases was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and a total of 57 studies were included in the qualitative analysis and 24 in the meta-analysis. The results indicated that soybean-based diets, at a 59.4% inclusion level improved the Specific Growth Rate (SGR) of tilapia with an effect size of -2.14 (95% CI: -2.92, -1.37; p < 0.00001; I2 = 99%) and did not improve the feed conversion rate (FCR), as the effect size was 1.80 (95% CI: 0.72, 2.89; p = 0.001; I2 = 100%). For seaweed-based diets, at a 15,9% inclusion level did not improve SGR, with an effect size of -0.74 (95% CI: -1.70, 0.22; p = 0.13; I2 = 99%), and the FCR with an effect size of -0.70 (95% CI: -1.94, 0.54; p = 0.27; I2 = 100%). Regarding the gut microbiota, was noted a lack of studies meeting the inclusion criteria for tilapia. However, findings from studies on other farmed fishes suggested that soybean and seaweed-based diets could have diverse effects on gut microbiota composition and promote the growth of beneficial microbiota. This study suggests that incorporating soybean-based diets at 59.4% inclusion can improve the SGR of tilapia. Seaweed-based diets, while not demonstrating improvement in the analyzed parameters with an inclusion level of 15.9%, have the potential to contribute to the sustainability of the aquaculture industry when incorporated at lower levels.
Global burden of fall and associated factors among individual with low vision: A systematic-review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ekemiri Kingsley , Ekemiri Chioma , Ezinne Ngozika , Virginia Victor , Okoendo Osaze , Seemongal-Dass Robin , Van Staden Diane , Abraham Carl
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Low vision has a significant global health problem that impacts the personal, economical, psychological, and social life of an individual. Each year around 684 000 individuals die from falls, 80% of these deaths occur are in low- and middle-income countries. The risk of falling significantly increases with visual impairment. This review aimed to determine the global pooled prevalence of fall and associated factors among individuals with low vision.

Methods and materials

Systematic search of published studies done on PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science CINAHL and, Google Scholar. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used to report the findings. Quality of studies was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects method using the STATA™ Version 14 software.

Result

Thirty-five (35) studies from different regions involving 175,297 participants included in this meta-analysis. The overall pooled global prevalence fall among individual with low vision was17.7% (95% CI: 16.4–18.9) whereas the highest prevalence was 35.5%; (95% CI: 28.4–42.5) in Australia and the lowest was 19.7%; (95% CI: 7.6–31.8) seen in South America. Fear of falling (OR: 0.16(95%CI 0.09–0.30), and severity of visual impairment (OR: 0.27(95%CI (0.18–0.39) increases the odds of falling.

Conclusion

As one cause of accidental death, the prevalence of falls among individuals with low vision is high. Fear of falling and severity of falling increases the odds of falling. Different stakeholders should give due attention and plan effective strategies to reduce the fall among this population.
Post-COVID-19 health inequalities: Estimates of the potential loss in the evolution of the health-related SDGs indicators
Authors: Silveira Fabrício , Miranda Wanessa , Sousa Rômulo Paes de
Published: July 2024

This study delves into the global evolution of 43 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) indicators, spanning 7 major health themes across 185 countries to evaluate the potential progress loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the cross-country and temporal variability of the dataset are employed to estimate an empirical model based on an extended version of the Preston curve, which links well-being to income levels and other key socioeconomic health determinants. The approach reveals significant global evolution trends operating in each SDG indicator assessed. We extrapolate the model yearly between 2020 and 2030 using the IMF’s pre-COVID-19 economic growth projections to show how each country in the dataset are expected to evolve in these health topics throughout the decade, assuming no other external shocks. The results of this baseline scenario are contrasted with a post-COVID-19 scenario, where most of the pandemic costs were already known. The study reveals that economic growth losses are, on average, estimated as 42% and 28% for low- and lower middle-income countries, and of 15% and 7% in high- and upper middle-income countries, respectively, according to the IMF’s projections. These disproportional figures are shown to exacerbate global health inequalities revealed by the curves. The expected progress loss in infectious diseases in low-income countries, for instance, is an average of 34%, against a mean of 6% in high-income countries. The theme of Infectious diseases is followed by injuries and violence; maternal and reproductive health; health systems coverage; and neonatal and infant health as those with worse performance. Low-income countries can expect an average progress loss of 16% across all health indicators assessed, whereas in high-income countries the estimated loss is as low as 3%. The disparity across countries is even more pronounced, with cases where the estimated progress loss is as high as nine times worse than the average loss of 8%. Conversely, countries with greater fiscal capacity are likely to fare much better under the circumstances, despite their worse death count, in many cases. Overall, these findings support the critical importance of integrating the fight against inequalities into the global development agendas.
Protocol for a meta-analysis of stereotype threat in African Americans
Authors: Warne Russell T. , Larsen Ross A. A.
Published: July 2024

Stereotype threat is a well-known construct in psychology wherein individuals who belong to a negatively stereotyped demographic group underperform on cognitive or academic tasks due to the detrimental effects of a stereotype. Many psychologists have suggested that stereotype threat may be one of the reasons that some demographic groups are underrepresented in advanced academic programs and STEM fields. However, others have raised concerns about the quality of the stereotype threat research, suggesting that its apparent effects are inflated and that the phenomenon may be an illusion of questionable research practices and publication bias. The purpose of this proposed meta-analysis is to evaluate the existence of stereotype threat by (1) identifying the average effect size of stereotype threat studies in different types of studies, (2), investigating whether publication bias and p-hacking are present in the empirical research on stereotype threat, (3) testing for the influence of theoretical and methodological moderators, (4) assessing the overall quality of the research on stereotype threat, (5) and identifying the average effect in the methodologically strongest studies. This meta-analysis will be limited to studies that report data from African Americans because this population is a theoretically important group in stereotype threat research, and the size of score gaps between the African American and non-stereotyped populations in the United States should make the stereotype threat effect easiest to detect.
Perceptions of mental health, suicide and working conditions in the construction industry—A qualitative study
Authors: Aurelius Kristina , Söderberg Mia , Wahlström Viktoria , Waern Margda , LaMontagne Anthony D. , Åberg Maria
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of the study was to explore perceptions of mental ill health, suicidal behaviour and working conditions among male construction workers, in order to gain an in-depth understanding of these phenomenon and to identify relevant avenues for workplace interventions.

Method

Data were collected in individual and group interviews, and 43 individuals from the Swedish construction industry, workers, union representative and managers, participated in the study. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Five main themes were found: Difficult to talk about mental health, Demanding working environment affects mental health, Substance abuse among construction workers, Importance of management, and Need for routines and social support in the workplace. Many participants reported that there was a stigma related to mental health. Suicides that had occurred among colleagues were perceived to come out of the blue. The working environment in the construction industry was perceived to have a negative effect on mental health, and it was reported that the management played an important role in both the cause and prevention of mental health problems.

Conclusions

The results from this Swedish study are in accordance with previous international research regarding a macho culture, stigma of mental health and a demanding working environment in the construction industry. The study adds to existing knowledge by highlighting that suicides were perceived to be very unexpected, that poor physical health affected mental health and that many participants did not know how to deal with mental health issues in the workplace.
Prognosing post-treatment outcomes of head and neck cancer using structured data and machine learning: A systematic review
Authors: Moharrami Mohammad , Azimian Zavareh Parnia , Watson Erin , Singhal Sonica , Johnson Alistair E. W. , Hosni Ali , Quinonez Carlos , Glogauer Michael
Published: July 2024

Background

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the performance of machine learning (ML) models in predicting post-treatment survival and disease progression outcomes, including recurrence and metastasis, in head and neck cancer (HNC) using clinicopathological structured data.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted across the Medline, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The methodological characteristics and performance metrics of studies that developed and validated ML models were assessed. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST).

Results

Out of 5,560 unique records, 34 articles were included. For survival outcome, the ML model outperformed the Cox proportional hazards model in time-to-event analyses for HNC, with a concordance index of 0.70–0.79 vs. 0.66–0.76, and for all sub-sites including oral cavity (0.73–0.89 vs. 0.69–0.77) and larynx (0.71–0.85 vs. 0.57–0.74). In binary classification analysis, the area under the receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) of ML models ranged from 0.75–0.97, with an F1-score of 0.65–0.89 for HNC; AUROC of 0.61–0.91 and F1-score of 0.58–0.86 for the oral cavity; and AUROC of 0.76–0.97 and F1-score of 0.63–0.92 for the larynx. Disease-specific survival outcomes showed higher performance than overall survival outcomes, but the performance of ML models did not differ between three- and five-year follow-up durations. For disease progression outcomes, no time-to-event metrics were reported for ML models. For binary classification of the oral cavity, the only evaluated subsite, the AUROC ranged from 0.67 to 0.97, with F1-scores between 0.53 and 0.89.

Conclusions

ML models have demonstrated considerable potential in predicting post-treatment survival and disease progression, consistently outperforming traditional linear models and their derived nomograms. Future research should incorporate more comprehensive treatment features, emphasize disease progression outcomes, and establish model generalizability through external validations and the use of multicenter datasets.
Drosophila melanogaster as a model arthropod carrier for the amphibian chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
Authors: Byer Alyssa M. , Nguyen Kaylie M. , Katz Tatum S. , Chen Renwei , Briggs Cheryl J.
Published: July 2024

The fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) causes the disease amphibian chytridiomycosis, which has contributed to population declines in many species of amphibians throughout the world. Previous observational studies have shown that nematodes, waterfowl, lizards, other dipterans, and crayfish have properties which may allow them to harbor and spread Bd; therefore, we sought to determine the carrier capabilities of invertebrates to a further extent in a laboratory setting. We use the insect Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism to quantify the potential relationship between insects and Bd. Our findings show that D. melanogaster can test positive for Bd for up to five days post-exposure and can transmit Bd to conspecifics without suffering mortality. Insects of various types interact with the amphibian habitat and amphibians themselves, making this a potentially important route of transmission between amphibians and of dispersal across the environment.
Bacteriophage-driven emergence and expansion of Staphylococcus aureus in rodent populations
Authors: Yebra Gonzalo , Mrochen Daniel , Fischer Stefan , Pfaff Florian , Ulrich Rainer G. , Pritchett-Corning Kathleen , Holtfreter Silva , Fitzgerald J. Ross
Published: July 2024

Human activities such as agriculturalization and domestication have led to the emergence of many new pathogens via host-switching events between humans, domesticated and wild animals. Staphylococcus aureus is a multi-host opportunistic pathogen with a global healthcare and economic burden. Recently, it was discovered that laboratory and wild rodents can be colonised and infected with S. aureus, but the origins and zoonotic potential of rodent S. aureus is unknown. In order to trace their evolutionary history, we employed a dataset of 1249 S. aureus genome sequences including 393 of isolates from rodents and other small mammals (including newly determined sequences for 305 isolates from 7 countries). Among laboratory mouse populations, we identified multiple widespread rodent-specific S. aureus clones that likely originated in humans. Phylogeographic analysis of the most common murine lineage CC88 suggests that it emerged in the 1980s in laboratory mouse facilities most likely in North America, from where it spread to institutions around the world, via the distribution of mice for research. In contrast, wild rodents (mice, voles, squirrels) were colonized with a unique complement of S. aureus lineages that are widely disseminated across Europe. In order to investigate the molecular basis for S. aureus adaptation to rodent hosts, genome-wide association analysis was carried out revealing a unique complement of bacteriophages associated with a rodent host ecology. Of note, we identified novel prophages and pathogenicity islands in rodent-derived S. aureus that conferred the potential for coagulation of rodent plasma, a key phenotype of abscess formation and persistence. Our findings highlight the remarkable capacity of S. aureus to expand into new host populations, driven by the acquisition of genes promoting survival in new host-species.