bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robotic-assistance and computer-navigation have similar rates of intraoperative fracture and return to the operating room within 1 year to fluoroscopy-only direct anterior total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Bendich Ilya , Chiu Yu-Fen , Sarpong Nana , Gonzalez Della Valle Alejandro , Su Edwin , McLawhorn Alexander
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The use of technology in direct anterior approach (DAA) total hip arthroplasty (THA) is expanding. Although the use of computer-navigation (CN-THA) and robotics (RA-THA) has previously demonstrated improved component positioning, it is important to understand whether its use is associated with differences in intraoperative complications or early return to the operating room when compared to fluoroscopy-only (manual-THA) DAA THA.

Methods:

3433 DAA THAs (226 RA-THA, 1007 CN-THA, 2200 manual-THA) performed at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Cohorts were adjusted for age, sex, BMI, femoral fixation, history of spine fusion, and Charlson Co-morbidity Index (CCI) using Inverse Probability of Treatment Weight (IPTW). Operative times were identified. Intraoperative fractures and re-operations within 1 year were identified via chart review.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in intraoperative fracture among the cohorts (0.4% RA-THA, 0.4% CN-THA, 0.4% manual-THA; p > 0.529). There were also no statistically significant differences ( p > 0.589) among the cohorts in rates of return to the operating room within 1 year for postoperative fracture (0.0% RA-THA, 0.4% CN-THA, 0.4% manual-THA), dislocation (0.0% RA-THA, 0.0% CN-THA, 0.1% manual-THA), infection (0.4% RA-THA, 0.7% CN-THA, 0.5% manual-THA), or other aetiologies (0.0% RA-THA, 0.2% CN-THA, 0.1% manual-THA).

Conclusions:

This study did not find a statistically significant difference in intraoperative fracture or re-operations within 1 year between DAA THA performed with RA, CN, or manual techniques. The introduction of technology to THA is not associated with increase in reoperations within one-year.
Minimum Acceptable Diet and Associated Factors among 6–23 Months Age Children in Wondo Genet District, Sidama Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Gujo Amelo Bolka , Kare Assefa Philipos
Published: December 2024

Background:

Inappropriate child feeding practices can have significant negative effects on the well-being and survival of children under two years old. This study was aimed at assessing the minimum acceptable diet (MAD) and associated factors among 6 to 23 months age children in Wondo Genet district, Sidama region, Ethiopia.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 to 30 July in 2023 among 422 children aged 6 to 23 months. Multi-stage sampling method was applied to select kebeles and study participants. Trained data collectors gathered data using pretested questionnaire. Data was entered into EPI Info 7 and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26. MAD as a composite indicator was produced based on the proportion of children aged 6 to 23 months who met the minimum meal frequency (MMF) and minimum dietary diversity (MDD) on the previous day. To assess the factors determining adherence to MAD, multi-variable logistic regression analyses were employed. The outputs were presented using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results:

In this study, 419 mothers/caretakers participated with a response rate of 99.3%. The proportion of children who met the MAD were 26.5% (95% CI: 22.29%, 30.71%). Increased odds of meeting MAD were associated with being from food-secured households (AOR = 2.39, 95% CI: 1.48 to 3.86), utilization of growth monitoring services (AOR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.23 to 3.39), mother attended formal education (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.15 to 3.08), and being in age range of 12-23 months (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI: 1.26 to 3.63).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of MAD was very low. Factors associated with a MAD included maternal education, child age, growth monitoring service utilization, and food security. To enhance MAD provision, it is crucial to strengthen child feeding practices tailored to the local context.
Professional competencies in social work concerned with alcohol use problems in Lithuania: Moving beyond ‘know-how’
Authors: Kievišienė Justina
Published: December 2024

Aims: There has been relatively little research on professional competencies in social work with individuals with alcohol use problems. The present study investigates the patterns of competencies and abilities that constitute different competence dimensions in this field of social work. Additionally, the study attempts to confirm the validity and assess the reliability in the use of the Perceived Social Work Competence Scale (PSWCS) for measuring professional competencies in Lithuania. Exploratory factor analysis was used for both purposes. Methods: First, the translated scale's reliability and validity were examined, after which an interpretative competence dimension analysis was performed. Results: The study shows that the translated scale, consisting of 30 items covering eight competence dimensions (consultation, emotional support, case management, professional resilience, retrospective consultation, team working, community work and relationship formation), demonstrates strong reliability. Conclusions:The study provides insight into the ways in which Lithuanian social workers employ a combination of procedural and meta-competencies with field-specific characteristics in their work with alcohol use problems.
On enhancing the high-temperature wear behaviour of Al2090-based hybrid composites using tertiary ceramic particles
Authors: B N Sharath , Mahesh Vinyas , Mahesh Vishwas , Kattimani Subhaschandra , Harursampath Dineshkumar
Published: December 2024

This study explores the impact of reinforcing an Al2090 matrix with silicon nitride (Si3N4) as a tertiary ceramic alongside boron carbide (B4C) and graphite (Gr) to improve wear resistance at elevated temperatures. Hybrid composite samples were produced using the stir-casting technique. Experimental results show that incorporating Si3N4 increased hardness by 35.7%, while wear resistance improved by 43.7% with a combined reinforcement of B4C, Gr, and Si3N4 at 18 wt.%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the formation of a mechanically mixed layer (MML) composed of B4C, Gr, and Si3N4, which acted as an effective insulating barrier, protecting the sample surface from the steel disc. A noteworthy 69% of wear resistance improvement was accomplished at 300 °C for the composite with 9 wt.% B4C, 6 wt.% Gr, and 3 wt.% Si3N4. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis further indicated enhanced surface properties for this composition. These findings highlight the potential of this hybrid composite for high-temperature aerospace applications, such as in engines, heat shields, and structural components.
Career self-management behavior among undergraduate students: A comparison of two-time points
Authors: Boo Soyoung , Kim Miyoung , Kim Soon-Ho
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath have heightened the importance of career self-management, a behavioral variable deserving of university attention. Using online surveys of undergraduate students in hospitality classes at two-time points, this empirical study found that career self-management behavior (i.e., networking behavior, visibility behavior, self-initiated developmental behavior, and job mobility preparedness) is facilitated by positive career planning attitude (i.e., career optimism, perceived knowledge of the job market, and career adaptability). Results show that a certain aspect of a positive career planning attitude is more strongly related to a certain behavior than other behaviors. We found no salient differences in relationships among latent variables in our hypothesized model across years, but there were minor differences between sociodemographic groups. This study extends the extant literature regarding university students’ career planning and management by adding specific information in the context of hospitality and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Heart Rate and its Variability From Short-Term ECG Recordings as Potential Biomarkers for Detecting Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Xavier Anjo , Noble Sneha , Joseph Justin , Ghosh Aishwarya , Issac Thomas Gregor
Published: December 2024

Background: Alterations in Heart Rate (HR) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) reflect autonomic dysfunction associated with neurodegeneration making them biomarkers suitable for detecting Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Methods: The study involves 297 urban Indian participants [48.48% (144) were male and 51.51% (153) were female]. MCI was detected in 19.19% (57) of participants and the rest, 80.8% (240) of them were healthy. ECG recordings spanning 10 s were collected and R-peaks were detected. Machine learning algorithms like were employed to further validate the features. Results: The mean of R-to-R (NN) intervals ( P = .0021), the RMS of NN intervals ( P = .0014), the SDNN ( P = .0192) and the RMSSD ( P = .0206) values differ significantly between MCI and non-MCI. Machine learning classifiers, SVM, DA, and NB show a high accuracy of 80.801% on RMS feature input. Conclusion: HR and its variability can be considered potential biomarkers for detecting MCI.
Impact of 3D printing technology for the construction of a prototype of low-cost robotic arm prostheses
Authors: Salazar Maxwell , Rosero Ricardo , Zambrano Oscar , Portero Paola
Published: December 2024

This article explores the impact of 3D printing technology on prototyping low-cost robotic arm prosthetic. The research begins with a thorough analysis of the robotic arms currently available on the market, with the aim of identifying their characteristics, costs, and limitations. Based on this review, an in-house design is developed using simplified CAD software, tailored to optimize both functionality and production efficiency. The construction of the prototype is carried out using 3D printing, taking advantage of the capabilities of this technology to reduce costs and manufacturing times compared to traditional methods. The article details the design and printing process, highlighting key decisions made to maximize the economic viability of the project. Finally, a detailed analysis of the costs associated with the project is carried out, comparing the results obtained with the initial reference data. This analysis allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of 3D printing as a low-cost solution in the development of robotic prostheses, highlighting its economic benefits and potential areas for improvement. The findings suggest that 3D printing represents a promising alternative for the creation of accessible robotic prosthetic, with significant implications for cost reduction and democratization of access to new technologies.
Pattern of omission bias across various measures of moral judgement: Insights from the use of vignettes
Authors: Tahamata Valentino Marcel , Tseng Philip
Published: December 2024

People are more forgiving towards harmful inaction (omission) over harmful action (commission), even when the eventual outcome is identical—known as omission bias. This phenomenon is observed in a set of moral vignettes by Young et al. that was originally designed to investigate moral judgement based on the presence of harmful intent and outcome. However, studies that used this set of vignettes have never reported the “action/omission” distinction effect, thus overlooking or conflating the impact of omission bias and potentially complicating the understanding of the targeted moral construct. In this report, we demonstrate how this omission bias may have inadvertently been incorporated into Young et al. vignettes. We analysed data from two published studies by separating the values of each moral measure into action and omission, and included them as an additional two-level factor into the model used in each included study. Overall, our results revealed statistically significant effect of omission bias. Interestingly, this effect was observed only in explicit but not implicit measures (i.e., implicit association test (IAT)), though both measures were able to capture their intended effect of “intent–outcome”-based moral reasoning. Furthermore, this report offers preliminary insights into how the action–omission asymmetry relates to intent–outcome-based moral reasoning across various categories of moral judgement, suggesting avenues for future exploration.
The effect of benralizumab on inflammation in severe asthma: a real-life analysis
Authors: Visca Dina , Ardesi Francesco , Zappa Martina , Grossi Sarah , Pignatti Patrizia , Vanetti Marco , Pini Laura , Sotgiu Giovanni , Centis Rosella , Migliori Giovanni Battista , Spanevello Antonio
Published: December 2024

Background:

Benralizumab is a monoclonal antibody treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma (SEA). Few studies investigated its role in airway inflammation and its correlation with lung function.

Objectives:

The aim of the present study is to assess its effect after 1 year of treatment, focusing on airway inflammation.

Design:

This is a retrospective observational study, in an Italian tertiary reference centre specialised in diagnosis and management of severe asthma patients.

Methods:

We conducted a monocentric retrospective study including SEA patients treated with benralizumab for 1 year. Clinical, functional and inflammatory data were collected at baseline, 6 (T6) and 12 (T12) months.

Results:

Twenty-two SEA patients on benralizumab were included. We observed a reduction in exacerbations rate and systemic steroid treatment ( p < 0.0001) as well as an improvement in asthma control ( p < 0.0001), health-related quality of life ( p = 0.017) and lung function pre-BD FEV1 (L) ( p = 0.02) and percentage ( p = 0.004) and post-BD FEV1 (L) ( p = 0.01) and percentage ( p = 0.003) from baseline to T6 and T12. A reduction in sputum eosinophil percentage was observed at T6 and T12 ( p < 0.005). We found a positive correlation between the variation of sputum eosinophils percentage and FEV1 (L) at T12 (rho = −0.79, p = 0.04). Moreover, the improvement of FEF25%–75% from baseline to 6 (rho = −0.53, p = 0.03) and 12 (rho = −0.62, p = 0.01) months negatively correlated with the duration of asthma disease. In our cohort 12/22 patients were super-responders at T6 and 15/22 at T12. Furthermore, clinical remission was reached by 12/22, and all of them obtained blood and sputum eosinophils counts normalisation.

Conclusion:

Our data confirm that it is a rapid and effective treatment for SEA acting on clinical, functional, systemic and airway inflammatory outcomes. Our results highlight the role of induced sputum as a promising non-invasive technique to investigate pathophysiologic mechanisms in severe asthma treated with biologics. Finally, a negative correlation between small airway improvement and the duration of asthma may suggest that a prompt referral to asthma centres may delay lung function worsening. Additional studies are needed to investigate more in-depth the role of induced sputum in the management of asthma, response to treatment and remission.
Innovations in Genicular Outcomes Registry (IGOR): protocol for a real-world registry study of treatments for knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Dasa Vinod , Mihalko William , Rivadeneyra Adam , Urban Joshua , Wickline Andrew , Rogenmoser David , Concoff Andrew , Spitzer Andrew , Mont Michael A.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the leading cause of disability among US adults and most commonly affects the knee. Guidelines for knee OA treatment include behavioral, nonpharmacological, pharmacological, and surgical interventions. While emerging knee OA treatments show promise for pain control, data gaps remain regarding the efficacy, safety, comparative effectiveness, and real-world value of treatments.

Objectives:

The Innovations in Genicular Outcomes Registry (IGOR) is prospectively collecting real-world data to assess clinical effectiveness, safety, health-related quality of life, and healthcare resource utilization of knee OA treatments.

Design:

The IGOR is a prospective, observational, longitudinal, multicenter registry (NCT05495334) examining knee OA pain treatment outcomes at intervals up to 18 months after treatment.

Methods and analysis:

All clinical management decisions are made via shared decision-making involving both the physician and the patient. Index joint-directed treatments may include various intra-articular injections, oral opioid and nonopioid medications (including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), cryo nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablations, novel treatment modalities, other physical therapy modalities (including muscle strengthening), and total knee arthroplasties. Patient-reported assessments along with physician-provided medical record data are recorded. Regular data quality assessments are conducted for each site, and an outside monitor ensures data quality and integrity. A steering committee ensures transparency and oversees administrative, legal, ethical, and scientific decisions. Treatment outcomes within and between therapies are compared.

Ethics:

Ethical approval was granted by Advarra, Inc. (protocol number, Pro00050981).

Discussion:

Data from the IGOR registry study will further elucidate the effectiveness, safety, and real-world value of knee OA treatments individually or in combination. Characterization of real-world treatment patterns will help better understand the impact of specific treatments.

Trial registration:

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT05495334.
Physician–clinical coder collaboration effectively improves coding accuracy: A single-centre prospective study in China
Authors: Xu Yicong , Zhu Huanbing , Xu Zhijun , Jin Fanying , Chen Jing , Pan Xuanliang , Cai Dong , Pan Shengdong
Published: December 2024

Background: Clinical coding is important for reimbursement, resource planning, administration and medical research. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate clinical coding accuracy and its influencing factors, especially the benefits of physician–clinical coder collaboration. Method: Twenty-four physicians and one senior clinical coder participated in the quality audit. The audit checklist, assessment criteria, training program and physician–clinical coder collaboration mechanism were clearly defined. The homepage filling standards, homepage filling guidelines and the guidelines of the International Classification of Diseases were used as the assessment criteria for evaluating accuracy. Results: A total of 323,320 medical records were reviewed. The average accuracy of homepage completion was 60.4% and poor-quality homepages accounted for 89.9% of coding errors. The average coding accuracy and correction percentage were 83.4% and 62.3%, respectively. After physician–clinical coder collaboration, the coding accuracy increased from 78.9% to 87.1% (χ² = 799.904, p  < 0.001) and correction percentage increased from 52.0% to 73.0% (χ² = 1628.015, p  < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that complexity of medical records (odds ratio (OR) = 0.625), quality of homepages (OR = 20.445), month of physician–clinical coder collaboration (OR = 1.133–2.297), coder’s major (OR = 1.616), coding experience (OR = 1.953), work engagement (OR = 1.290) and day of the week (OR = 1.054) were factors influencing coding accuracy. Conclusion: Physician–clinical coder collaboration effectively improved clinical coding accuracy and clinical coders benefited greatly. However, homepage quality was not improved. Furthermore, homepage quality and psychological factors influenced coding accuracy. Implications: Managers should implement regular standardised training for homepage completion, alongside ongoing improvements in coding practices and training.
Practicing With a Framework Mindset: A Closer Look at the Principle of Leadership
Authors: Clark Elizabeth , Tanner Andrea L.
Published: December 2024

This article is the third in a series highlighting the practice principles of the updated School Nursing Practice Framework. Each article in this series provides an in-depth look at a principle of the Framework, including how school nurses can apply the principle to their day-to-day practice through a Framework Mindset. This article explores Leadership as a practice principle, demonstrates school nursing Leadership in current practice, and details components of Leadership through a case study. Subsequent articles in this series will continue to build upon and explore the interconnections between the Framework principles.
Intranasal delivery of macrophage cell membrane cloaked biomimetic drug-nanoparticle system attenuates acute lung injury
Authors: Zhao Yue , Shen Xin , Fan Yinqiang , Wei Ning , Ling Zijie , Yao Yinlian , Fan Shilong , Liu Jiahao , Shao Yiming , Zhou Zhikun , Jin Hua
Published: December 2024

Acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a life-threatening disease, is typically induced by uncontrolled inflammatory responses and excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Astaxanthin (Ast) is known for its powerful natural antioxidant properties, showcasing excellent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. However, its poor water solubility and bioavailability significantly limit its efficacy. Taking inspiration from biomimetic biology, this study developed a nasal drug delivery system comprising macrophage membrane (Mϕ)-encapsulated Ast-loaded nanoparticles (Mϕ@Ast-NPs) for the treatment of ALI. Mϕ@Ast-NPs retain the original homing properties of Mϕ, enabling targeted delivery to inflamed lungs and enhancing the anti-inflammatory effects of Astaxanthin (Ast). In vitro and in vivo, Mϕ@Ast-NPs demonstrated excellent biocompatibility and safety, as evidenced by no hemolysis of red blood cells and no significant toxic effects on cells and major organs. To determine the inflammation-targeting of Mϕ@Ast-NPs, both healthy and ALI mice were intranasally administered with Mϕ@Ast-NPs, the results demonstrated that highly targeting to inflamed lungs and endothelia, while with minimal accumulation in healthy lungs and endothelia. Mϕ@Ast-NPs effectively inhibited ROS production, enhanced Nrf2 expression and nucleus translocation, and reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells and ALI mice. Our study provided a safe and effective nasal delivery platform for pulmonary diseases, and this biomimetic nano-formulation of Ast could be as functional foods in the future.
Adipose mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium and extract: A promising therapeutic option for regenerative breast cancer therapy
Authors: Kazemi Faezeh , Sadeghian Fatemeh , Pirsadeghi Ali , Asadi Fatemeh , Javdani Hossein , Yousefi-Ahmadipour Aliakbar
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer and a leading cause of cancer death in U.S. women. The tumor microenvironment, especially nearby adipocytes, plays a crucial role in its progression. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of human adipose mesenchymal stem cells-derived conditioned medium (SUP) and extract (CE) from on breast cancer cells.

Methods:

Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells were isolated and characterized by flow cytometry using Cluster of Differentiation (CD) markers (CD34, CD45, CD90, and CD105). The differentiation potential was confirmed via adipogenic and osteogenic induction. MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with SUP and CE, and cell viability was assessed using the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-Yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay at 24, 48, and 72 h. Doubling time, colony formation, wound healing, and gene expression for key cancer-related genes ( TIMP1, TIMP2, MMP2, PDL1, IDO, Bax, caspase 3, and caspase 9) were also evaluated.

Results:

Both SUP and CE significantly inhibited the viability of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells, reduced their doubling time, and suppressed colony formation. In wound healing assays, cell migration was notably impaired in MDA-MB-231 cells but less so in MCF-7 cells. Real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed downregulation of TIMP1, MMP2, PDL1, and IDO in MDA-MB-231 cells after treatment, while CE increased certain gene expressions in MCF-7 cells. Bax, caspase 3, and caspase 9 expressions were significantly upregulated in MDA-MB-231 cells but not in MCF-7 cells after treatment.

Conclusion:

Human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells-derived SUP and CE exhibit antitumor effects on breast cancer cells, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy to suppress tumor progression. Mesenchymal stem cells-SUP and CE could be a safe and novel regenerative approach for breast reconstruction postmastectomy without tumor recurrence risk.
Retrospective observational study of safety, performance, and duration of use of battery-powered intraosseous access device in pediatric patients
Authors: Philbeck Thomas E , McDonald John G , Carew Melvin , Ross Christopher
Published: December 2024

Background:

To demonstrate the safety and performance of the Arrow EZ-IO Intraosseous Vascular Access System, particularly in the pediatric patient population, a retrospective observational study was conducted in 2021 and 2022.

Methods:

Following study design, IRB approval, and investigator selection, data were collected for all patients needing intraosseous access—adult and pediatric. The primary endpoint was the success rate for achieving intraosseous access; the secondary endpoint was the rate of adverse events. Following initial data collection, additional data were collected and a sub-set analysis was conducted to demonstrate the same in pediatric patients only, which is the focus of this report.

Results:

Data for 106 pediatric cases were collected. The success rate for achieving intraosseous access and infusion was 96.2%. There were three adverse events in two patients (1.9%); none serious or previously unreported. The mean duration of device use was 60 h (SD = 46). For 46 patients, the device was used for up to 48 h, and for another 45 patients, the device was used for a longer duration.

Conclusions:

This report is the first characterization of the safety and performance of the Arrow EZ-IO Intraosseous Vascular Access System when used in the pediatric population for longer dwell times (>24 h), with no serious complications reported. Performance and safety objectives were met. The results of this real-world evidence study are in alignment with findings from the clinical literature concluding that, for pediatric patients, the Arrow EZ-IO Intraosseous Vascular Access System is safe and effective for providing vascular access in urgent, emergent, and medically necessary situations, in which intravenous access is difficult or impossible to obtain. In addition, this study supports the use of intraosseous access for dwell times greater than 24 h.
Estimating surgical blood loss: A review of current strategies in various clinical settings
Authors: Stoker Alexander D , Binder Will J , Frasco Peter E , Morozowich Steven T , Bettini Layne M , Murray Andrew W , Fah Megan K , Gorlin Andrew W
Published: December 2024

The estimation of surgical blood loss is routinely performed during and after surgical procedures and has morbidity and mortality implications related to the risk of under- and over-resuscitation. The strategies for estimating surgical blood loss include visual estimation, the gravimetric method, the colorimetric method, formula-based methods, and other techniques (e.g., cell salvage). Currently, visual estimation continues to be the most widely used technique. In addition, unique considerations exist when these techniques are applied to various clinical settings such as massive transfusion, cardiac surgery, and obstetrics. Ultimately, when using estimated surgical blood loss to guide perioperative fluid management and transfusion thresholds, it is also important to mitigate the risks associated with resuscitation by targeting a goal-directed fluid therapy approach by utilizing markers of fluid-responsiveness to optimize stroke volume (cardiac output) and delivery of oxygen.
Analysis of the relationship between antineoplastic drugs and suicide-related adverse events based on the food and drug administration adverse event reporting system database
Authors: Zhao Nan , Wang Huimin , Xu Huilin , Tang Xixian , Cao Dedong
Published: December 2024

Background:

The potential association between new antineoplastic drugs and an increased risk of suicide-related adverse drug reactions remains unclear. This study aims to utilize the FAERS public database to analyze suicide-related adverse drug reactions associated with common antitumor drugs and to investigate potential risk signals for such adverse drug reactions.

Methods:

This study was a retrospective analysis utilizing the FAERS database. The FAERS database was examined for reports of suicide-related adverse events associated with antitumor drugs, spanning from 2004 to 2023. To identify and verify adverse event signals, we employed reporting odds ratios, proportional reporting ratios, and Bayesian methods (Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network). Additionally, logistic regression analysis was performed to assess outcomes in tumor patients.

Results:

A total of 223,781 suicide-related adverse event reports were screened, of which 3790 involved common antitumor drugs. The top five drugs reported were tretinoin ( n = 1220), methotrexate ( n = 664), celecoxib ( n = 505), rituximab ( n = 107), and imatinib ( n = 105). Risk signal analysis indicated that, with the exception of tretinoin (ROR = 6.317), the reporting odds ratio values for the other drugs were below 2. Among cancer patients, the most frequently reported adverse events included suicidal ideation ( n = 233), completed suicide ( n = 131), and suicide attempts ( n = 97). Regression analysis revealed that risk factors for patient death included indication (OR = 0.967, p < 0.01), gender (OR = 0.57, p < 0.01), and type of adverse event (OR = 4.644, p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that antineoplastic drugs may not statistically increase the risk of suicide-related adverse events. However, specific tumor types and suicide-related adverse events may contribute to increased mortality in cancer patients. Further research is warranted to elucidate the risk of suicide-related adverse events in oncology patients.
Accuracy of virtual reality in automated measurement and diagnosis of strabismus
Authors: Wang Yu-meng , Liu Jiawen , Chen Wei-wei , Jiang Mei-xia , Fu Jing
Published: December 2024

Background

To explore the accuracy of VR technology for strabismus screening.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 191 subjects were included. Examinations included VR technology based on infrared, the cover-uncover test, and the prism alternating cover test (PACT) at various gaze positions, specifically at distances of 33 cm and 6 m. The accuracy of VR in diagnosing strabismus and quantifying the degree of strabismus was evaluated by comparing the VR results to the average outcomes of manual examinations conducted by the two physicians, considered the gold standard.

Results

A total of 88 healthy individuals, 81 exotropia patients, 17 esotropia patients, and five vertical strabismus patients were included in this study, and each subject was screened for less than 2 min. The sensitivity of VR for screening strabismus was 80.3% and the specificity was 80%, displaying moderately consistent with the manual results (Kappa = 0.598, p < .001). The sensitivity for diagnosing exotropia was 76.5% and the specificity was 91.8%, also showing strong agreement with the manual results (Kappa = 0.695, p < 0.001). The sensitivity for diagnosing esotropia was 94.1% and the specificity was 95.4%, with strong agreement with the manual results (Kappa = 0.755, p < .001). The sensitivity for diagnosing vertical strabismus was 80% and the specificity was 98.9%, with strong agreement with manual results (Kappa = 0.719, p < .001). For ocular deviation angle calculations, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to compare the agreement between VR and manual results. It showed moderately agreement for exotropia in the near mode (ICC = 0.587, range, −0.036–0.826) and less agreement for exotropia in far mode (ICC = 0.349, range, −0.042–0.615). ICC was in good agreement (ICC = 0.701, range, 0.358–0.879) for the esotropic far mode results (6 m) and not statistically significant for the esotropic near mode results (33 cm). ICC was in good agreement (ICC = 0.606, range = −0.143 to 0.946) for the vertical-near-mode results (33 cm) and not statistically significant for the vertical-far-mode results (6 m).

Conclusions

This novel technique for strabismus screening, which utilizes virtual reality technology, enables quick, precise, and straightforward diagnosis of strabismus. It has also shown notable efficacy in accurately measuring the angle of deviation in cases of exotropia.
Civic Engagement in Emerging Adulthood: Variation by Gender and SES, and Association with Personal Adjustment
Authors: Sánchez-García Laura , Díez Marta , Sánchez-Queija Inmaculada , Lizaso Izarne , Parra Águeda
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes civic engagement among Spanish emerging adults, exploring its association with psychological well-being and distress, attending to gender differences and other sociodemographic variables. 1,700 university students (64.7% women) aged between 18 and 29 years completed a self-administered questionnaire. Emerging adult women scored higher for civic engagement (civic awareness, civic and electoral participation) than men. Civic awareness correlated positively with flourishing and negatively with distress, especially among women. However, contradictory results were found for civic participation, which correlated positively with flourishing among men, but also correlated positively with distress, especially among women. Our findings help identify the most common dimensions of civic engagement in this vital stage and highlight the important role played by gender in the civic engagement of Spanish emerging adults.
Research on Factors Influencing Knowledge Contribution in Online Q&A Communities: Based on an Empirical Study of QCA on Zhihu
Authors: Li Wenzhu , Du Juan , Feng Xin , Chen Jiangfei
Published: December 2024

An important reason for the slowdown of online Q&A (Question and Answer) communities is that the number of users with knowledge input behavior is relatively small and the intensity of input behavior is decreasing, which is precisely the key to the sustainable development of communities. Therefore, it is of great significance to explore the factors affecting knowledge contribution behavior to maintain the sustainable development of the community. Based on the social exchange theory from the perspective of configuration, the theoretical model of the factors influencing knowledge contribution behavior is constructed by sorting out nine dimensions of variables from users’ self-improvement and social identity, writing a distributed crawler program to capture a total of 5,000 sample data from Zhihu community, using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis for empirical research. We found that users’ knowledge contribution behavior is influenced by multiple prefactors, there may be three different types of constitutive paths that influence users’ knowledge contribution behavior: self-improvement, social identity, and both. At the same time, users’ self-improvement and social identity play a linkage role and jointly influence knowledge contribution behaviors. From the perspective of configuration, the platform can find multiple influencing factors in various ways, so as to enhance the enthusiasm of users for knowledge contribution and promote the sustainable development of the online Q & A community. In addition, this paper further deepen the study of the factors influencing knowledge contribution behavior and develop new research perspectives for the study.
Adaptative Strategies for Outdoor Recreation During a Time of Stress: Insights from the COVID-19 Pandemic in the U.S.
Authors: Parkinson Colby , Shen Xiangyou , MacDonald Megan , Logan Samuel W. , Gorrell Lydia , Hatfield Bridget E.
Published: December 2024

Maintaining engagement in outdoor recreation during COVID-19 required adaptation as the pandemic continuously reshaped risk perceptions, use of outdoor space, and interpersonal contact. This study examined the role of four main adaptive strategies in outdoor recreation engagement among U.S. adults during one of the nation’s largest waves of COVID-19 cases and death. Cross-sectional data were collected through an online survey in February 2021 ( N = 503) from an online panel representative of the U.S. adult population in age, gender, and race. Multiple linear regression results suggested that increasing effort and temporal adjustment were associated with higher outdoor recreation frequency controlling for the effects of nearby green space access and attributes, COVID risk perception, and demographic variables. Binary logistic regression results revealed that these same strategies were also associated with increased odds of maintaining or increasing outdoor engagement relative to pre-COVID level. The prominent role of individual adaptive strategies relative to the impact of nearby green space access and attributes highlighted the value of behavioral adaptation at the individual level in times of major disruptions and constraints and the need to prioritize recreation programming to facilitate adaptation and healthy behaviors during future stressful events.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Firm Performance in India: The Moderating Role of Environmental Sensitivity
Authors: Maji Santi Gopal , Saikia Meghna Bharali
Published: December 2024

The study examines the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on the financial performance of India’s top 100 BSE-listed firms as of March 2022. It also studies the moderating role of environmental sensitivity in impacting this relationship. Greenhouse gas emissions and their components are measured in terms of their intensity per unit of sales, while financial performance is measured by Return on Assets and Tobin’s Q. Using random effects and interaction models, the analysis finds a negative relationship between emissions and financial performance, moderated by environmental sensitivity. The results highlight the need for stricter environmental regulations in India and encourage firms, especially in sensitive industries, to reduce emissions through renewable energy or improved efficiency. The study supports the “win–win” hypothesis, suggesting that reducing emissions can enhance firm performance. Future research could expand to include all listed Indian firms and those in other developing economies to gain a broader perspective.
Bridging the Policy Gap: A Critical Autoethnography of Asylum Accompaniment
Authors: Heffernan Amanda , Hudgins Audrey
Published: December 2024

Executive Summary

Unlike refugees, most asylum-seekers receive scant attention from US government and non-profit agencies. A loose network of individuals and organizations aims to bridge this gap in policy and services through the practice of asylum accompaniment. This article, by two scholar-activists with a combined 10 years of experience accompanying asylum-seekers, aims to:

• Explore the praxis of asylum accompaniment via critical autoethnography, using our accompaniment narratives to illuminate the dynamics of accompaniment relationships, including the profound mutual benefits of this type of engagement and the complexities of social and political power, privilege, and access

• Propose policy solutions that emerge from critical reflection on our experiences, including increased support for accompaniment networks

• Offer a practical tool, The ABCs of Asylum Accompaniment, as a resource for informed accompaniment of asylum-seekers
Residential concentration of the new elite class between 2010 and 2020 in South Korea
Authors: Park Jihan , Kim Donghyun
Published: December 2024

Recently, a new elite class, often called the upper-middle class, has emerged as a distinct social group. This study aims to identify the spatial distribution of this new elite class in South Korea in the years 2010 and 2020. Using data from the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study, we defined new elites as those in 3-digit managerial and professional occupations with high wages (top 50%) and low property levels (bottom 50%). We utilized the Population and Housing Census to identify the spatial distribution of elite roles at the district level and visualized them using cartograms. We identified consistent elite concentrations in Seoul and southern Gyeonggi, but their presence was restricted to specific districts by 2020. Sejong emerged as an administrative hub attracting new elites. Moreover, Busan and Ulsan experienced increasing elite populations, whereas Gwangju and Daegu witnessed a decline. These findings highlight the growing spatial polarization of the new elite class. Our study provides a basis for policies aimed at improving educational opportunities and promoting social mobility.
Vulnerable to disappearance. Experiences of missing and found teenage girls and young men in Nuevo León, Mexico
Authors: Durin Séverine
Published: December 2024

In Mexico, the phenomenon of disappearance resurfaced with the Drug War (2006) and in the state of Nuevo Leon it was mainly young men who disappeared the most between 2007 and 2012. However, since 2018, the disappearances of teenage girls increased. To analyze this situation, a study was undertaken in collaboration with the National Search Commission, whose methodology relies on analyzing the experiences of missing and found persons. With the support of the Local Search Commission in Nuevo León, a survey was sent to found persons between the ages of 0 and 29, interviews were conducted with missing and found persons, and files of the public child protection services were reviewed. This new methodology established the immediate and structural causes of disappearances and that the main factors of vulnerability are structural violence, mental health and addictions, gender violence and police abuse.
Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome: unraveling the genetic basis, symptoms, and advancements in therapeutic approaches
Authors: Arun Akhil , Nath Athira Rejith , Thankachan Bonny , Unnikrishnan M. K.
Published: December 2024

Hutchinson–Gilford Progeria syndrome (HGPS) serves as a prominent model for Progeroid syndromes, a group of rare genetic disorders characterized by accelerated aging. This review explores the genetic basis, clinical presentation, and complications of HGPS. HGPS is caused by mutations in the LMNA gene, resulting in the production of a defective structural protein, prelamin A. This protein contains a “CAAX” motif, where C represents cysteine, and its abnormal processing is central to the disease’s pathology. HGPS leads to multiple organ systems being affected, including cardiovascular, skeletal, neurological, and dermatological systems, causing severe disability and increased mortality. Cardiovascular issues are particularly significant in HGPS and are crucial for developing therapeutic strategies. Recent advances in treatment modalities offer promise for managing HGPS. Farnesyltransferase inhibitors and genetic interventions, such as CRISPR-Cas9, have shown potential in mitigating progerin-associated symptoms, with encouraging results observed in preclinical and clinical studies. Additionally, emerging therapies such as rapamycin, sulforaphane, and MG132 hold promise in targeting underlying disease mechanisms. Comprehensive management approaches, including growth hormone therapy, retinoids, and dental care, are emphasized to enhance overall patient well-being. Despite progress, further research is essential to unravel the complex pathophysiology of Progeroid syndromes and develop effective treatments. Continued focus on therapies that address progerin accumulation and its downstream effects is vital for improving patient care and outcomes for individuals affected by HGPS and related disorders. This review highlights ongoing efforts to understand and combat Progeroid syndromes, aiming to alleviate the burdens imposed by these debilitating conditions.
CNVizard—a lightweight streamlit application for an interactive analysis of copy number variants
Authors: Krause Jeremias , Classen Carlos , Dey Daniela , Lausberg Eva , Kessler Luise , Eggermann Thomas , Kurth Ingo , Begemann Matthias , Kraft Florian
Published: December 2024

Background

Methods to call, analyze and visualize copy number variations (CNVs) from massive parallel sequencing data have been widely adopted in clinical practice and genetic research. To enable a streamlined analysis of CNV data, comprehensive annotations and good visualizations are indispensable. The ability to detect single exon CNVs is another important feature for genetic testing. Nonetheless, most available open-source tools come with limitations in at least one of these areas. One additional drawback is that available tools deliver data in an unstructured and static format which requires subsequent visualization and formatting efforts.

Results

Here we present CNVizard, an interactive Streamlit app allowing a comprehensive visualization of CNVkit data. Furthermore, combining CNVizard with the CNVand pipeline allows the annotation and visualization of CNV or SV VCF files from any CNV caller.

Conclusion

CNVizard, in combination with CNVand, enables the comprehensive and streamlined analysis of short- and long-read sequencing data and provide an intuitive webapp-like experience enabling an interactive visualization of CNV data.
Navigating menstrual stigma and norms: a qualitative study on young people’s menstrual experiences and strategies for improving menstrual health
Authors: Åkerman Eva , Wängborg Anna , Persson Maria , Sörensdotter Renita , Klingberg-Allvin Marie
Published: December 2024

Background

Menstrual health is a recognised important public health issue and is essential for the realisation of gender equality and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. This study aimed to explore the menstrual health experiences of young people in Sweden and how the menstrual cycle affects their health and lives. The study also aimed to identify the facilitators and barriers to achieving menstrual health.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study in Sweden. Sixteen young people aged 18–28 who have experienced the menstrual cycle participated in individual interviews. Purposeful sampling combined with snowball sampling was applied to recruit the participants. The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Participants viewed menstruation as a sign of having a healthy and functioning body. Menstruation was linked to becoming a woman and fostered a sense of community and sisterhood, which was viewed as positive among cis women. Further, the results showed that physical and emotional symptoms related to the menstrual cycle limited the participants’ everyday lives and social relationships and had a negative effect on their sexual and mental health. While managing their emotional discomfort and other menstrual complaints, they also had to deal with the public stigma and norms about menstruation contributing to shame and worries. Barriers to menstrual health included stigma and norms related to menstruation, which led to the adoption of expected behaviours, such as avoiding participation in social activities. The normalisation of menstrual complaints also contributed to delays in seeking healthcare, despite having symptoms that had a negative effect on their health. An important factor promoting menstrual health and quality of life is access to prompt treatment to mitigate and decrease symptoms that limit everyday life.

Conclusions

The results indicate that menstrual stigma and related norms create challenging situations limiting menstruating people’s everyday lives and reluctance to seek healthcare despite needing to. To promote the menstrual health of menstruating young people in Sweden, organised and systematic screening of menstrual cycle-related symptoms should be provided within student health services at schools and universities, and primary healthcare. Policymakers should consider integrating stigma-reducing efforts into public health interventions to improve general awareness and promote gender equality.