bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Bystander’s Barriers to Intervene in Gender-Based Violence and the Role of Failed Prior Attempts
Authors: Park Sihyun , Woo Hyunji , Kim Sin-Hyang
Published: October 2023

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive public health issue that harms victims. Bystanders’ interventions are crucial in preventing the risks of GBV; however, numerous barriers impede their willingness and behaviors to intervene. As a part of efforts to thwart these barriers, this study used a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify such barriers and assess their impact on bystanders’ engagement to intervene. The researchers explored academic databases and included 38 studies in the analysis; we extracted and coded the identified barriers (e.g., lack of responsibility, rape myth) and allocated them to six domains: failure to notice, failure to perceive risk, failure to take responsibility for engaging, lack of bystander efficacy/competency, failure to take an action, and failure of previous intervention attempts. We calculated the overall and domain-specific effect sizes (ES) and performed moderator analysis. The overall ES of the barriers identified in the review were small but statistically significant. The most potent bystander intervention barrier domain was failed previous intervention attempts; the greatest specific barriers therein were negative emotions and feelings of uncertainty after engaging in bystander behaviors. University/college populations were more vulnerable to barriers to intervention than community members. Moreover, the barriers were more prohibitive in incidents of violence against women and sexual assaults than in intimate partner violence. Bystander-focused programs that address negative emotions and feelings arising from prior intervention experiences are needed to foster continued bystander engagement and assistance in GBV; moreover, tailored program content should also be provided for groups most vulnerable to intervention barriers.
Integration of a Custom-Made Fenestration to Simplify Acute Reno-Visceral In Situ Aortic Repair
Authors: Berczeli Marton , Sonesson Björn , Karelis Angelos , Oderich Gustavo S. , Dias Nuno V.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

To illustrate the technique of antegrade in situ laser fenestration (ISLF) on a predesign custom-manufactured stent-graft with single reinforced fenestration for use in emergency endovascular repair of complex abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).

Technique:

A short custom-made device (CMD) fenestrated graft was predesigned with a single preloaded 8 mm strut-free fenestration at 12 o’clock position. A modified preloaded system was used to allow unilateral access from the distal port if necessary. After bilateral percutaneous femoral access, the graft was deployed under fusion guidance with the CMD fenestration matching the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) origin and immediately bridged as per standard technique. The aneurysm was then excluded with a bifurcated device. A large steerable sheath was used to allow for sequential antegrade laser in situ fenestration and stenting of the renal arteries.

Conclusions:

Single-vessel customized short fenestrated grafts for the SMA and antegrade in situ laser renal fenestrations are technically feasible for repair of acute complex AAAs even after previous infrarenal reconstruction. It could become an off-the-shelf solution to limit aortic coverage and reno-visceral ischemia, even in patients with a narrow aortic diameter at the renal level.

Clinical Impact

Single-vessel precustomized short fenestrated grafts for the SMA combined with renal artery antegrade ISLF can be a feasible option for the acute repair of patients with complex aneurysms and a narrow aortic diameter at the reno-visceral segment. It may limit aortic coverage and reno-visceral ischemic time and also be applicable after previous infrarenal endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR).
Textile smart sensors based on a biomechanical and multi-layer perceptron hybrid method
Authors: Chun Sehwan , Kim Jooyong
Published: October 2023

Resistance training is becoming increasingly important and widespread. Decomposition of the muscle loads applied is important for injury prevention and determining the load on the targeted muscles. In this study, a flexible textile PET (polyethylene terephthalate)/SP(Spandex) SWCNT (Single-walled carbon nanotube) stretch sensor was fabricated and attached at four locations: the elbow, brachioradialis/flexor carpi radialis, biceps brachii, and triceps brachii. The stretch sensors attached to the elbow can measure the angle of elbow flexion without an IMU 9-axis sensor using quadratic fitting. A Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) was used to decompose the muscle volume expansions of the 3muscle by angle. The model provided a good fit for all three muscles, with R-squared values ranging from Test set 0.98725 to 0.99815. Through one input and three ouput fitting, the muscle volume expansion quantities during the bicep barbell curl were decomposed and compared with data. The results showed that the brachioradialis/flexor carpi radialis muscle maintained 13% of the arm muscle volume up to 60°, then increased to 44% at 100°. The biceps brachii muscle steadily increased to 70% from 0° up to 60°, and then maintained 40% at 100° due to the volume increase of other muscles. The triceps brachii muscle maintained 9% of the arm muscle volume up to 90°, then increased to 20% at 100°. This study shows that muscle volume expansion can be easily measured with a non-body contact wearable device, unlike many existing contact methods for measuring muscle activity like EMG (electro-myography), etc. This study provides a novel approach for easily measuring muscle volume expansion and decomposition in wearable devices, which can indirectly indicate injury prevention and muscle loading in target areas through balance optimization among local muscles.
Hazard and Injury Experiences of Latino Day Laborers in Houston, Texas
Authors: Monforton Celeste , Fernandez-Esquer Maria Eugenia , Rangel Maria Lizette , Arevalo Mariana
Published: October 2023

Latino day laborers in the United States provide skilled labor to businesses and homeowners through informal work arrangements. We conducted exploratory qualitative research with Latino day laborers in Houston, Texas, to investigate their perceptions of safety risks and circumstances related to work-related injuries. We conducted focus groups with 34 participants and used risk mapping and body mapping activities to elicit greater engagement by the Latino day laborers in the conversations. Participants described physical, occupational, and psychosocial hazards that affected their risk for workplace injuries. They indicated a significant risk for injury was employers failing to provide proper tools or equipment for the job being done. The themes that emerged from the analysis were lack of control over employment conditions and the risk of performing unsafe work in order to meet financial needs. This formative qualitative research informed a pilot test and subsequent clinical trial of injury risk reduction strategies for Latino day laborers. Interventions to protect day laborers from work-related injuries should be informed by recognizing the employment and social dilemmas they confront.
Quantifying the robustness of a Bayesian Belief Network in the context of Unmanned Aerial System threat prediction
Authors: Middeldorp Laura , Malone Kerry , Noordkamp Wouter
Published: October 2023

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs), or drones, are becoming increasingly available to the general public. Because of this, organizations active in safety and security, such as the Dutch Armed Forces and the Dutch National Police, need to be prepared for possible UAS accidents and attacks. To that end, it is vital that the nature of the possible threat that UAS may pose is detected in a timely manner. A method that can be employed for this problem is a Bayesian Belief Network (BBN). Given the observations made of a UAS and its surroundings, a BBN is capable to determine the most likely type of threat posed by the UAS. Generally, the probabilities that are required as input for this method can be estimated from historical data if enough data are available. However, since only a small amount of data about drone incidents has been collected, expert opinion is used. This introduces uncertainty in the BBN as opinions of experts are subjective. This paper presents a means to construct a BBN for UAS threat prediction when no empirical data are available and determine the robustness of the output. The analysis is restricted specifically to NATO Class I drones (less than 150 kg) in law enforcement operations.
Adjustment of the Length Variation With Wire-driven Using the Stand Looper Tension Technique for Surgical Robot Applications
Authors: Yoon Kicheol , Lee Sangyun , Kim Kwang Gi
Published: October 2023

Motivation

The wire-driven method used in the field of surgical robots has the advantage of light weight. However, in the process of pull and push for the operation of forceps, the length of the wire is not match, causing malfunction. To solve this problem, the application of looper-tension technology would be suitable. This paper contributes to adjusting the length of the wire by inserting a stand between the wire-driven joints and adding a looper-tension between the stands to adjust the rotation radius of the roll.

Methods

The method consisting of three rolls and loopers for connection between the stands minimizes errors by adjusting the length of the loop in a balanced state due to the rotation change of the roll during the pull and push of the robot arm. The angle and tension applied to the looper are 25° and 8.6 MPa, respectively.

Results

An output response can be obtained when the reference operating point fluctuates by ± 50% of the input angle and tension, and if the reference operating point fluctuates by ± 30% while the input angle and tension are fixed, the output response occurs oppositely. When a .15 kg object is loaded up/down with 1.5 newton using forceps, the change in length of pull and push coincides.

Conclusion

The advantage is that the error of wire pull, and push operation can be reduced, and accurate operation can be expected. Since the proposed technology is applied between joints, the integration process is not complicated, and the weight is light.
Using Microsoft Teams to Facilitate Asynchronous Online Focus Groups
Authors: Frey T. Kody , Bloch Beth Strickland
Published: October 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges to researchers engaged in qualitative research. Such methods often require the use of in-person methods of data collection and were greatly interrupted during this time of global emergency. Yet, navigating this altered terrain presented opportunities to reflect on the traditional methodological landscape. In this paper, we reflect on the use of Microsoft Teams to facilitate multiple asynchronous online focus groups. We draw on the findings from a study of researchers focused on translational medicine, who work in disparate locations and often have conflicting schedules, to show how the use of this approach facilitated active communication between individuals who otherwise rarely interact. Specifically, we reflect on five ways that Microsoft Teams both enhanced and challenged traditional focus group practice. We consider how (1) conversational sequence, (2) discussion moderation, (3) nonverbal cues, (4) supporting information, and (5) technical competencies relate to using this approach. This results in several reflections intended to help future researchers prepare to facilitate asynchronous online focus groups using Teams. Specifically, we highlight our experiences in terms of participant interaction, iterative reflections, and data management. Ultimately, we argue that this approach adds an important and powerful tool to the qualitative methodological toolkit.
Gaps in benefits, awareness, and comprehension that leave those with long COVID vulnerable
Authors: Evered Jane A , LaJeunesse Alessandra , Wynn Madison , Mrig Emily , Schlesinger Mark , Grob Rachel
Published: October 2023

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic has left many suffering from long COVID, an episodic and debilitating chronic condition affecting people's ability to work and manage medical expenses. Though the Biden Administration has committed to conducting research and building support programs to alleviate the strain on those affected, in practice, static eligibility criteria for unemployment and disability benefits, patchy insurance coverage, and insufficient paid leave programs have left many people vulnerable. Given the magnitude of long COVID and the dearth to date of large-scale studies about its financial consequences, a focused qualitative analysis of lived experiences is warranted to understand and highlight gaps in the policy landscape.

Methods

We conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews from 2020 to 2022 with 25 people with experience of long COVID living predominately in the Midwest.

Results

Our inductive analysis revealed ways people became financially exhausted by uncertain medical care costs and precarious employment that left them trying, often alone, to access benefits. People described both experiences with workplace benefits and attempts to access federal benefits to address unstable employment situations created by protracted and uncertain functional impairments.

Discussion

We explore pre- and post-pandemic era unemployment, disability, and insurance policies and offer recommendations for better supporting people with long COVID.
A practical guide to improve sleep and performance in athletes
Authors: Bender Amy M , Lambing Kari A
Published: October 2023

Sleep is vital for optimal mental and physical health. For athletes, optimizing sleep is becoming a popular strategy to enhance athletic performance. Athletes often complain of sleep problems including insufficient sleep and insomnia symptoms and are also at a higher risk for sleep disordered breathing. Sleep disorders and insufficient sleep can contribute to excessive sleepiness, daytime dysfunction, and performance problems. In contrast, better sleep provides benefits for physical health and athletic performance. For athletes, multiple factors can contribute to insufficient sleep. Sport-specific factors include frequent travel across time zones, competition and training schedules, high training loads, and sleeping in an unfamiliar environment. Non-sport-related factors include work, social, and family commitments; attitudes and sleeping beliefs; individual characteristics, such as chronotype or preference for morning or evening; and lifestyle choices. Fortunately, there are strategies that can be implemented to improve sleep in athletes including (a) education and emphasis on the importance of sleep; (b) sleep screening; providing extra sleep opportunities like (c) banking sleep and (d) napping; improving sleep hygiene like (e) proper light exposure; (f) a good pre-sleep routine; (g) a conducive sleep environment; (h) a strategy for supplementation; (i) utilizing circadian timing adjustments; and (j) jet lag management. Increased recognition of the importance of sleep from sport professionals and screening for sleep disorders and disturbances will be key for future athlete health, well-being, and performance.
Interest as a supplementary criterion in the detection of talent: The identification of differing types of children at primary school age
Authors: Spies Fabienne , Heger Larissa , Bindel Tim , Pfeiffer Mark
Published: October 2023

Current efforts to design an effective method of detecting talent are now focused on the differing interests of children (preferences) and not just their sport-related motor skills (ability). When a person-oriented approach is used, it is important to profile different types to design movement offers that effectively target the relevant groups and prevent dropouts. The aim of this study was to investigate in the elementary school context what types it is possible to identify in terms of both interests and ability. A total of 159 children (age 8–11.5) were assessed to determine their interests and their ability using a sequential design approach. ‘Preferences’ were scored on a seven-point Likert scale during a video-assisted interview. ‘Ability’ was assessed using seven sport-related motor skills tests. The mixed-methods approach consisted of a quantitative step 1, a cluster analysis (SPSS27, Ward's method, squared Euclidean distance). Based on the clusters, in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted in step 2. Analysis revealed five clusters of children that exhibited significant differences in terms of ability and interests. The qualitative interviews clarify the characteristics of the types (e.g. special interest in recreational activities or in competing at a high level with high or low own performance) and describe their experiences and desires. The data indicates that children's interests are determined by positive experiences and prior knowledge. Schools, sports practice, and sports science are faced with the task of responding suitably to children with different combinations of ability and preferences in the early phase of talent detection.
A novel technique in flexor pulley reconstruction using an A1 pulley as a donor
Authors: Gathura Esther , Abbassi Omar , Iwuagwu Fortune
Published: October 2023

We describe a novel technique for the reconstruction of an essential flexor pulley over a bowstrung flexor tendon using the A1 pulley of the same or another digit. Replacing ‘like for like’ ensures restoration of pulley-tendon interface and biomechanics.
Lunocapitate versus four-corner fusion in scapholunate or scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Schriever Thorsten , Swärd Elin , Wilcke Maria
Published: October 2023

This pragmatic randomized controlled trial compared lunocapitate fusion (LCF) and four-corner fusion (4CF) for scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC) in 64 patients. The primary outcome was change in grip strength from preoperative to 1 year postoperatively. The secondary outcomes were Disability of the Hand, Arm, and Shoulder score, Patient Rated Wrist Evaluation score, EuroQol-5D-3L, range of motion, key pinch strength and complications 12 months postoperatively. Grip strength improved only to a small extent and there was no difference between the groups. No differences were found in the secondary outcomes. In conclusion, LCF is not inferior to 4CF regarding strength, range of motion or patient-reported outcome measures.

Level of evidence: I
Woven Endo Bridge shape modification contributes to decrease in adequate occlusion rate after Woven Endo Bridge implantation for wide-neck bifurcation intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Fujii Takashi , Teranishi Kohsuke , Kitamura Takayuki , Mitome-Mishima Yumiko , Kondo Akihide , Oishi Hidenori
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Recently, a novel device, the Woven Endo Bridge (WEB), was developed for wide-neck bifurcation intracranial aneurysms (WNBAs). The aim of this study is to investigate factors that contribute to adequate occlusion (AO) after the operation using detailed radiological images.

Methods

The subjects were 29 patients with 29 aneurysms who received WEB implantation for WNBAs between December 2020 and April 2022. We assessed the contributing factors to AO by retrospectively comparing the AO group and non-AO group.

Results

The mean age was 64.6 ± 13.1 years, and 18 were female (62.1%). The mean aneurysm dome width, aneurysm height, and aneurysm neck diameter were 4.8 ± 0.6 mm, 5.1 ± 0.6 mm, and 3.7 ± 0.6 mm, respectively. After about 6 months, 22 of 29 patients (75.9%) had AO. Complications were observed in 2 patients (6.9%), renal artery injury in one, and minor cerebral infarction in another, but the modified Rankin scale scores of both patients remained unchanged. Multivariate analysis extracted only WEB shape modification (WSM) as a contributing factor to AO (odds ratio: 0.912, p = 0.0287).

Conclusion

WEB implantation for WNBAs was a treatment modality with acceptable efficacy and safety. WSM was the only significant factor contributing to non-AO after the treatment. We should clarify the mechanisms or causes of WSM to achieve AO after WEB implantation in future.
The future of data-driven investigations in light of the Sky ECC operation
Authors: Oerlemans Jan-Jaap , Royer Sofie
Published: October 2023

The Sky elliptic-curve cryptography (Sky ECC) operation is a prime example of a data-driven investigation. The collection of approximately 1 billion messages from 70,000 phones paved the way for hundreds of criminal investigations, resulting in numerous convictions in the Netherlands and Belgium alone. This article addresses how the Sky ECC operation interferes with the right to privacy and the right to a fair trial. We examine whether or not, and on what terms, there is a future for data-driven criminal investigations. Our main research question is therefore how data-driven criminal investigations can be (better) regulated in order to be in line with case law of the European Court of Human Rights. To answer the research question, the main characteristics and legal criteria for data-driven investigation are identified. These criteria derived from the right to privacy and the right to a fair trial. Finally, we examine the impact of a violation of these criteria for the use of evidence in criminal proceedings. The research uncovers a disconnection between data protection regulations and criminal procedural law. It highlights that practitioners concentrate primarily on the collection phase, governed by criminal procedural law, whereas the most urgent questions relate to the respect of data protection law and the right to a fair trial. This finding suggests an ongoing discourse relating to the transparency of data-driven criminal operations like Sky ECC and the need to address concerns regarding the reliability of evidence.
Soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 1 predicts cardiorenal outcomes and better associated with distinct cardiovascular or renal outcomes than precedential renal or cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chang Li-Hsin , Chu Chia-Huei , Huang Chin-Chou , Lin Liang-Yu
Published: October 2023

Background:

Inflammations are the crucial pathogenesis of chronic complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Objectives:

The timeline of cardiovascular and renal complications of T2DM and whether soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 1 (sTNFR1) levels predict cardiorenal outcomes were still elusive.

Design:

Prospectively observational study.

Methods:

Chinese patients with T2DM were enrolled. Cardiorenal composite events defined by either cardiovascular composite events (all-cause mortality, acute coronary syndrome, or non-fatal stroke) or renal composite events (a decline of >30% of renal function or worsening status of albuminuria) were followed. Associations of sTNFR1 levels and cardiovascular, renal, and cardiorenal composite events were analyzed in regression models presented by hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results:

Among 370 subjects, 42 cardiovascular and 86 renal composite events occurred. Higher sTNFR1 levels were related to higher frequency and risks of cardiovascular composite events (HR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.13, p = 0.009) and renal composite events (HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.09, p < 0.001). Occurrences of cardiovascular composite events were not predicted by precedential renal composite events. sTNFR1 levels were proved to be associated with risks of cardiorenal composite events in Cox regression sequential models (adjusted HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00–1.08, p = 0.03). The results were consistent in all subgroup analyses.

Conclusion:

Levels of sTNFR1 were associated with cardiorenal complications of T2DM and the predictabilities of TNFR1 levels were better than precedential cardiovascular or renal events.
Design and rationale for the SIB trial: a randomized parallel comparison of semaglutide versus placebo on intestinal barrier function in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Rella Steven , Onyiah Joseph , Baker Chelsea , Singh Vatsala , Her Andrew , Rasouli Neda
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To describe the rationale and design of the SIB trial, an interventional clinical trial testing the hypothesis that subcutaneous (s.c.) once-weekly semaglutide can improve intestinal permeability and reduce systemic inflammation in participants with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity.

Methods:

SIB (NCT04979130) is an investigator-initiated, single-center randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical study being conducted at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. The primary objective of this novel trial is to test the hypothesis that subcutaneous (s.c.) once-weekly semaglutide could improve intestinal permeability and reduce systemic inflammation in participants with T2D and obesity. Eligible participants had a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, elevated body mass index, and evidence of systemic inflammation. Participants were randomized 1:1 to s.c. semaglutide or placebo. Participants were assessed for intestinal permeability and markers of inflammation at baseline, mid-study, and at the end of the study. Efficacy assessments were based on the analysis of the following: lactulose:mannitol ratio test, serum lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), fecal calprotectin, inflammatory biomarkers (IL-6, TNF, IL-1, IL-8, hs-CRP), and HbA1c. All participants who enrolled in the trial provided written informed consent after having received written and oral information on the trial. The risks of semaglutide use were minimized by administration according to FDA-labeled use and close monitoring for adverse events.

Discussion:

SIB is the first study to examine the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on intestinal permeability in humans and will provide important data on their impact on systemic inflammation and intestinal permeability in the setting of T2D and obesity.
MicroRNA-96-5p is negatively regulating GPC3 in the metastasis of papillary thyroid cancer
Authors: Hu Haibei , Quan Guangqian , Yang Feng , Du Shan , Ding Siqin , Lun Yongzhi , Chen Qiang
Published: October 2023

Backgrounds:

Papillary thyroid cancer is the most common pathological type of thyroid cancer. miR-96-5p, a member of the miR-183 family, constitute a polycistronic miRNA cluster. In breast cancer, miR-96-5p promotes cell invasion, migration, and proliferation in vitro by inhibiting PTPN9. Moreover, miR-96-5p was reported to function as an oncogene in many cancers. However, whether miR-96-5p is involved in the development of papillary thyroid cancers and its potential mechanism is still unknown. The present study aims to explore the relationship between miR-96-5p and GPC3 expression in the development of papillary thyroid cancers.

Methods:

Transcriptomic sequencing was carried out using six pairs of papillary thyroid cancer and adjacent normal tissues. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) experiments were performed to examine the expression of genes.

Results:

In total, there were 1588 up-regulated and 1803 down-regulated differentially expressed genes between papillary thyroid cancer and normal tissues. Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis revealed that extracellular matrix structure and proteoglycans were mainly involved in papillary thyroid cancer. Among the cluster of proteoglycans, GPC3 was significantly down-regulated in papillary thyroid cancer and is a target of miR-96.

Conclusion:

miR-96-5p participates in the development of papillary thyroid cancer by regulating the expression of GPC3. Thus, targeting miR-96-5p may be a potential therapeutic approach for preventing and treating papillary thyroid cancer.
Employing feature engineering strategies to improve the performance of machine learning algorithms on echocardiogram dataset
Authors: Huang Huang-Nan , Chen Hong-Ming , Lin Wei-Wen , Huang Chau-Jian , Chen Yung-Cheng , Wang Yu-Huei , Yang Chao-Tung
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study mainly uses machine learning (ML) to make predictions by inputting features during training and inference. The method of feature selection is an important factor affecting the accuracy of ML models, and the process includes data extraction, which is the collection of all data required for ML. It also needs to import the concept of feature engineering, namely, this study needs to label the raw data of the cardiac ultrasound dataset with one or more meaningful and informative labels so that the ML model can learn from it and predict more accurate target values. Therefore, this study will enhance the strategies of feature selection methods from the raw dataset, as well as the issue of data scrubbing.

Methods

In this study, the ultrasound dataset was cleaned and critical features were selected through data standardization, normalization, and missing features imputation in the field of feature engineering. The aim of data scrubbing was to retain and select critical features of the echocardiogram dataset while making the prediction of the ML algorithm more accurate.

Results

This paper mainly utilizes commonly used methods in feature engineering and finally selects four important feature values. With the ML algorithms available on the Azure platform, namely, Random Forest and CatBoost, a Voting Ensemble method is used as the training algorithm, and this study also uses visual tools to gain a clearer understanding of the raw data and to improve the accuracy of the predictive model.

Conclusion

This paper emphasizes feature engineering, specifically on the cleaning and analysis of missing values in the raw dataset of echocardiography and the identification of important critical features in the raw dataset. The Azure platform is used to predict patients with a history of heart disease (individuals who have been under surveillance in the past three years and those who haven’t). Through data scrubbing and preprocessing methods in feature engineering, the model can more accurately predict the future occurrence of heart disease in patients.
The Impact of Haze Pollution on Chinese Local Government Debt
Authors: Han Xin , Xuelian Zheng , Hou Jun , Kuang Xianming
Published: October 2023

Can haze pollution effectively influence local government debt? This study uses data from 285 Chinese cities at the prefecture level or above from 2006 to 2019, and uses annual average sunny days as an instrumental variable to systematically analyze the impact of haze pollution on local government debt from both theoretical and empirical perspectives. The main conclusions of this study are: (1) there is a positive correlation between haze pollution and local government debt; (2) sub-sample analysis suggests that the impact of haze pollution on local government debt shows heterogeneous effects in different cities and at different times; and (3) the analysis of the relevant mechanism suggests that haze pollution can promote local government debt through industrial structure upgrading and green technology innovation. The research conclusions provide policy references for Chinese local governments to effectively respond to haze pollution.
Quality of Governance and Welfare Generosity as Institutional Predictors of Entrepreneurship: European Perspective
Authors: Gawel Aleksandra , Toikko Timo
Published: October 2023

The aim of this article is to examine whether the cross-country and gender variations of entrepreneurship can be explained within the institutional framework. The study addresses normative forces to which entrepreneurs are expected to adapt within European welfare states. The normative forces are focused on norm-based factors of governmental quality and value-based factors of governmental generosity, which are both hypothesized to be associated with entrepreneurship at the level of society and furthermore from the gender perspective. To verify our hypotheses, the research was conducted among 28 European countries in the years 2012 to 2018. We adopted the macro-level of analysis and undertook panel data analysis (PDA). We estimated the econometric models with entrepreneurship rates as dependent variables and those with norm-based and value-based factors as independent variables. The results confirm that norm-based factors are associated with entrepreneurship and there are significant differences in the responses of female and male entrepreneurial activities to the quality of government. However, we did not find supporting evidence for the statistically significant impact of governmental generosity on entrepreneurship. The novelty of our research is in implementing institutional theory into the discussion on entrepreneurship from the welfare state perspective, by introducing the concept of norm-based and value-based factors which reflect the quality and generosity of the government. We also distinguish between the impact of governmental quality and generosity on entrepreneurship from the gender perspective to contribute to the discussion on the gender gap in entrepreneurship.
The Current Mental Health of Healthcare Workers 3 Years After the Start of the Pandemic: The Relationship Between Coping Strategies and Indices of Mental Health
Authors: Serrano-Ibáñez Elena R. , de la Vega-Castelo Ariadna M. , Varela Carmen , Montero-Matellanes M. Mikel , Gómez-Pulido Almudena
Published: October 2023

Healthcare workers have been a vulnerable group during the pandemic. Even today, they continue to deal with the virus and its consequences. Such sustained stress over time has led to the development of mental health problems that may still be present in this population. These may be related to the coping strategies that are being implemented to manage this situation. This study aimed to examine the mental health of health professionals after the end of the acute phase of the pandemic and investigate which coping strategies predicted levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout. A total of 285 healthcare workers were assessed. Descriptive and multiple regression analyses were performed. The result showed (a) levels of mild-to-moderate depressive symptomatology, moderate levels of stress and anxiety symptomatology, and a medium level of burnout; and (b) acceptance, behavioral disengagement, negation, substance use, and active coping as the strategies most implicated in this symptomatology. Interventions that help health professionals to develop adaptive coping strategies, thus avoiding or reducing the development of psychological symptoms, should be implemented.
Critical Review of National Education Policy 2020 Concerning Nomadic Tribes and De-notified Tribes
Authors: Jadhav Suraj Shankar , Narayan P. B. Shankar
Published: October 2023

Education is a primary tool for any community to uplift itself from the vicious cycle of poverty, illiteracy and unemployment. Nomadic tribes and de-notified tribes (NT–DNT) groups have been victims of the draconian colonial Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) of 1871, which was repealed in 1952, replacing another version of the CTA with the Habitual Offenders Act (HOA). Several commissions and committees attempted to address the issue of NT–DNT over the decades. Most of their recommendations have yet to be implemented, including a proper census to track their socio-economic profile. With this background, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 plays a vital role in deciding the future of the education of marginalised students in India. This article examines the possible outcome of NEP 2020 on the educational status of NT–DNT groups and if specific attention has been provided to address the question of NT–DNT education. This study plans to understand the issues NT–DNT communities face regarding their fundamental education rights. Despite policies and legislatures focused on compulsory education, NT–DNT students find it challenging to achieve even a basic level of educational attainment. A review of previous studies reflects that NT–DNT students face several barriers like discrimination, lack of care and protection, language barriers and so on. They experience the stigma of criminality, difficulty in representation, accessibility to education and availing of fundamental rights assured to them by the Indian Constitution. NEP 2020 has clubbed all the marginalised population groups into a single category. It will make it even more difficult for students of NT–DNT groups to represent themselves.
Exploring comorbidity and pharmacological treatment patterns in psoriasis - a retrospective population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Hamgård Nelly , Duvetorp Albert , Hägg Anna , Jerkovic Gulin Sandra , Seifert Oliver
Published: October 2023

Background

Individuals with psoriasis face an increased risk of suffering from various comorbid conditions. However, there haven´t been any studies conducted in Sweden to examine the frequency of comorbidities and the corresponding treatment for these conditions among psoriasis patients.

Methods

The Cosmic electronic medical record represents a comprehensive repository of medical information including all residents of Region Jönköping. To conduct a population-based retrospective cross-sectional study, all individuals diagnosed with psoriasis between April 9, 2008 and July 1, 2016, were identified via the electronic medical records using ICD-10 codes. Data on comorbidity and dispensation of prescribed drugs against these comorbid conditions were analyzed.

Results

During the study period, 1.7% of the population (4,587 individuals) were diagnosed with psoriasis, with 74.3% of cases classified as mild to moderate psoriasis and 25.7% as severe. The remaining 268,949 individuals did not receive a psoriasis diagnosis. The study showed that psoriasis patients had higher odds of experiencing the majority of the comorbid conditions examined. Arthritis other than psoriasis arthritis was found to be the most prevalent comorbid diagnosis among psoriasis patients (adjusted OR 7.2, CI 95% 6.4-8.2, p < 0.001), followed by obesity (OR 2.4, CI 95% 1.9-3.1, p < 0,001). There was no significant difference in drug prescription for comorbid diseases between patients with psoriasis and patients without psoriasis except for arthritis and smoking cessation treatment.

Conclusions

Individuals with psoriasis are more susceptible to experiencing multiple comorbid conditions compared to the general population, particularly those with severe psoriasis. There is no evidence of undertreatment of comorbidity except for arthritis among psoriasis patients.
ROS-producing nanomaterial engineered from Cu(I) complexes with P2N2-ligands for cancer cells treating
Authors: Faizullin Bulat A. , Dayanova Irina R. , Kurenkov Alexey V. , Gubaidullin Aidar T. , Saifina Alina F. , Nizameev Irek R. , Kholin Kirill V. , Khrizanforov Mikhail N. , Sirazieva Aisylu R. , Litvinov Igor A. , Voloshina Alexandra D. , Lyubina Anna P. , Sibgatullina Guzel V. , Samigullin Dmitry V. , Musina Elvira I. , Strelnik Igor D. , Karasik Andrey A. , Mustafina Asiya R.
Published: October 2023

The work presents core–shell nanoparticles (NPs) built from the novel Cu(I) complexes with cyclic P2N2-ligands (1,5-diaza-3,7-diphosphacyclooctanes) that can visualize their entry into cancer and normal cells using a luminescent signal and treat cells by self-enhancing generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Variation of P- and N-substituents in the series of P2N2-ligands allows structure optimization of the Cu(I) complexes for the formation of the luminescent NPs with high chemical stability. The non-covalent modification of the NPs with triblock copolymer F-127 provides their high colloidal stability, followed by efficient cell internalization of the NPs visualized by their blue (⁓450 nm) luminescence. The cytotoxic effects of the NPs toward the normal and some of cancer cells are significantly lower than those of the corresponding molecular complexes, which correlates with the chemical stability of the NPs in the solutions. The ability of the NPs to self-enhanced and H2O2-induced ROS generation is demonstrated in solutions and intracellular space by means of the standard electron spin resonance (ESR) and fluorescence techniques correspondingly. The anticancer specificity of the NPs toward HuTu 80 cancer cells and the apoptotic cell death pathway correlate with the intracellular level of ROS, which agrees well with the self-enhancing ROS generation of the NPs. The enhanced level of ROS revealed in HuTu 80 cells incubated with the NPs can be associated with the significant level of their mitochondrial localization.
Massive pre-prostatic nodal metastasis from localized aggressive prostate cancer removed during robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy with extended pelvic lymph node dissection: a case report with brief literature review
Authors: Al Barajraji Moncef , Holz Serge , Moussa Ilan , Naudin Michel , Didier Pamart
Published: October 2023

Background

During robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) for prostate cancer (PCa), few attention is given to pre-prostatic fat tissue (PPT) even during pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND). However, the rare potential involvement of PPT lymph nodes (LN) by PCa metastasis has already been reported by several authors and may influence therapeutic strategy in intermediate and high-risk patients. We present the case of a 69-year-old man who underwent RARP with extended PLND (ePLND) for aggressive PCa with massive pre-prostatic nodal metastasis, sampled during prostate biopsies. We sought to report this case for the particular preoperative images and reinforce benefits of resecting PPT during PLND for PCa.Please confirm if the author names are presented accurately and in the correct sequence (given name, middle name/initial, family name). Author 1 Given name: [Moncef] Last name [Al Barajraji].Ok

Case presentation

A 69-year-old man consulted our department for high serum prostate specific antigen level (57 ng/mL). He had familial history of PCa only at first degree. On digital rectal evaluation, induration of left prostatic lobe was felt. Transrectal ultrasonography showed hypoechogenic lesion in left prostatic lobe with supra-centimetric nodule in PPT. Pelvic magnetic resonance revealed two lesions in the peripheral zone with a 19-mm nodule on right paramedian side of PPT (see Fig. 1). Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsies were performed, including the nodule. On left side, 2 biopsies out 6 showed Gleason 10 prostate cancer. On right side, all biopsies showed Gleason 9 prostate cancer. The PPT nodule showed Gleason 9 prostate cancer. Prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography computed tomography scan showed hypermetabolic expression from left prostate lesions and PPT nodule. Transperitoneal RARP with ePLND was performed including PPT. Histopathological study revealed advanced prostate cancer with lymphovascular invasion and ECE (see Fig. 2). Evaluation of ePLND material showed metastasis in on pelvic LN and 23 mm nodal metastasis in PPT (see Fig. 2). Therefore, adjuvant therapy was initiated.
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Conclusions

PPT resection is not part of routine RARP with ePLND for PCa. However, this tissue might contain LN harbouring metastasis independently from pelvic LN, indicating adjuvant therapy in case of upstaging. Considering the low morbidity of resecting PPT and its facility, it should always been resected and sent for analysis in intermediate and high-risk PCa.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt for tuberculous meningitis-associated hydrocephalus: long-term outcomes and complications
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Li Pengtao , Wen Junxian , Chang Jianbo , Chen Yihao , Yin Rui , Xu Houshi , Liu Xiaoyu , Yang Lang , Wei Junji
Published: October 2023

Background

Hydrocephalus is a frequent complication of tuberculous meningitis (TBM), and ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) has been shown to improve short-term prognosis for patients with TBM-associated hydrocephalus. However, questions remain about long-term prognosis and shunt-related complications. This study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of both long-term prognosis and shunt-related complications in patients with TBM-induced hydrocephalus who have undergone VPS treatment.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed the clinical data of TBM patients with hydrocephalus treated with VPS at Peking Union Medical College Hospital between December 1999 and February 2023. Both short-term outcomes at discharge and long-term outcomes during follow-up were examined. Prognosis and shunt-related complications were assessed using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and the Activity of Daily Living (ADL) score to evaluate neurological function and autonomic living ability, respectively.

Results

A total of 14 patients with TBM-associated hydrocephalus were included in this study. Of these, 92.9% (13/14) exhibited favorable short-term outcomes, while 57.1% (8/14) showed positive long-term outcomes. Initial results indicated 6 complete recoveries (CR), 7 partial recoveries (PR), and 1 treatment failure. No catheter-related complications were observed initially. Long-term results included 4 CRs, 4 PRs, and 6 treatment failures. A variety of shunt surgery-related complications were noted, including three instances of catheter obstruction, one of incision infection, one of catheter-related infection, one of acute cerebral infarction, and one of transient peritoneal irritation accompanied by diarrhea.

Conclusions

VPS appears to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for TBM-associated hydrocephalus, efficiently alleviating acute intracranial hypertension. Nonetheless, continuous long-term monitoring and proactive management are essential to mitigate the risk of catheter-related complications.
Should dolutegravir always be withheld in people with HIV on dolutegravir with incident diabetes mellitus? a case report
Authors: Mulindwa Frank , Castelnuovo Barbara , Brusselaers Nele , Bollinger Robert , Yendewa George , Amutuhaire Willington , Mukashaka Claudine , Schwarz Jean-Marc
Published: October 2023

Dolutegravir (DTG), an integrase strand transfer inhibitor is currently the recommended first and second line anti-retroviral therapy (ART) anchor agent by the World Health Organization due to its favorable side effect profile, high efficacy and genetic barrier to resistance.

Despite its very good side effect profile, there have been multiple case reports of ART experienced patients developing hyperglycemia within weeks to a few months after switching to DTG preceded by weight loss. At population level, however, DTG as well as other integrase inhibitors have been demonstrated to have a reduced risk of incident diabetes mellitus (T2DM) compared to other HIV drug classes.

Following multiple similar reports of accelerated hyperglycemia in Uganda during the first pilot year of DTG use, the Uganda Ministry of Health recommended withholding dolutegravir in all patients who develop diabetes. Whether this recommendation should be applied to all patients with incident T2DM remains to be demonstrated.

We present a clinical case of an HIV positive ART naïve man who was diagnosed with T2DM after 36 weeks on DTG. We describe changes in blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin resistance and pancreatic beta cell function before and after withholding DTG. We demonstrated that he was phenotypically different from the reported cases of accelerated hyperglycemia and he continued to have worsening insulin resistance despite withholding DTG. His blood glucose improved with dietary T2DM management. It is possible he had an inherent risk of developing T2DM independent of his exposure to DTG. This put in question whether DTG should universally be withheld in PLHIV with incident T2DM in Uganda.