bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Expanding and Democratizing Knowledge: Participatory Citizen Science as a Research Strategy for Empirical Theology
Authors: Müller Sabrina , Knapp Aline , Todjeras Patrick , Merian Katharina 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
(Participatory) citizen science is a research strategy that is strongly promoted by various research institutes throughout continental Europe. The basic idea behind this approach is to include citizens in the research process with the aim of more closely interrelating science and daily life, while increasing the impact of scientific findings on individuals and communities. With that said, participatory citizen science has rarely been used in the field of empirical theology. To demonstrate the potential of its use in this field, this article provides a critical introduction to participatory citizen science as a research strategy and offers insights from a research project in which a religious app was analyzed in collaboration with citizens using a qualitative paradigm.
Investment Climate in the MENA Region: Are the Stabilisation Clauses in Foreign Direct Investment Agreements an Obstacle to Progress?
Authors: Alqarni Abdulmajeed Abdullah 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Foreign direct investment agreements between Western corporations and the countries of the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) deserve attention. On one side, the MENA region is a developing region rich in natural resources and therefore a destination interesting to Western investors. On the other, the MENA region is perceived as a volatile and unstable investment environment. Therefore, international investment agreements in the said region often include stabilisation clauses that serve as contractual mechanisms protecting investors from any changes in the laws and acts of nationalisation and expropriation by the host states. As stabilisation clauses have serious adverse effects on the sovereignty of the host states and the development of human rights, this article will take a deeper view of the stabilisation practice and aim to reveal how this contractual mechanism might represent a Catch 22 with respect to the further development of the MENA region countries, especially with respect to human rights and internal governance.
On Scrolls, the Visual, and Visuality in Jewish Art
Authors: Rodov Ilia 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This article investigates the images of paired scrolling patterns recurring in the design of Jewish ritual spaces and objects. It explores a facet of non-narrative visual expression within Jewish visual culture. The chronologically and geographically disconnected depictions of similar paired scrolled patterns on Jewish artifacts exemplify the process of creating and recreating symbolic meanings based on the mimetic qualities of an image. In their various renditions and contexts, volutes in their resemblance to growing plant branches enacted visual references to the vital powers of nature as a promise for resurrection and a metaphor for the vitality of Judaism and the Mosaic law. The Jewish manifestations of symbolic scrolls emerged in surroundings that maintained classical architectural vocabulary containing volutes and shared the Christian topos of the flourishing cross visualized in its arboreal or vegetative renditions. This very act of construing of a non-narrative visual sign of a couple of spirals aims at reaffirming visual evidence as a meaningful source in its own right.
The Collective Unconscious of Rome and India
Authors: Mudra Rakshasa-Loots Arish 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Ovid’s Metamorphoses has long served as a window into Greco-Roman culture and mythology. However, the ways in which the Metamorphoses may be shaped by, and in turn shape, the interactions between myths and cultures beyond the Greco-Roman world are underexplored. The Ramayan, a seminal South Asian mythological text, has received less attention in scholarship in the Global North, in part due to the overwhelming focus on the Greco-Roman canon. This article highlights stark narrative parallels between the abduction of Proserpina in the Metamorphoses and the abduction of Sita in the Ramayan. Given that these texts are genetically and geographically distinct, tracing the origin of these parallels remains challenging. Here, I leverage a Jungian analytical framework to propose that “narrative archetypes”—collections of images stored in the collective unconscious which manifest in myths across cultures—may explain why episodic details are conserved between the Metamorphoses and the Ramayan.
Gathering Validity Evidence for a Simulation-Based Test of Otoscopy Skills
Authors: von Buchwald Josefine Hastrup , Frendø Martin , Frithioff Andreas , Britze Anders , Frederiksen Thomas Winther , Melchiors Jacob , Andersen Steven Arild Wuyts 
Published: October 2024

Objective: Otoscopy is a key clinical examination used by multiple healthcare providers but training and testing of otoscopy skills remain largely uninvestigated. Simulator-based assessment of otoscopy skills exists, but evidence on its validity is scarce. In this study, we explored automated assessment and performance metrics of an otoscopy simulator through collection of validity evidence according to Messick’s framework. Methods: Novices and experienced otoscopists completed a test program on the Earsi otoscopy simulator. Automated assessment of diagnostic ability and performance were compared with manual ratings of technical skills. Reliability of assessment was evaluated using Generalizability theory. Linear mixed models and correlation analysis were used to compare automated and manual assessments. Finally, we used the contrasting groups method to define a pass/fail level for the automated score. Results: A total of 12 novices and 12 experienced otoscopists completed the study. We found an overall G-coefficient of .69 for automated assessment. The experienced otoscopists achieved a significantly higher mean automated score than the novices (59.9% (95% CI [57.3%-62.6%]) vs. 44.6% (95% CI [41.9%-47.2%]), P < .001). For the manual assessment of technical skills, there was no significant difference, nor did the automated score correlate with the manually rated score (Pearson’s r = .20, P = .601). We established a pass/fail standard for the simulator’s automated score of 49.3%. Conclusion: We explored validity evidence supporting an otoscopy simulator’s automated score, demonstrating that this score mainly reflects cognitive skills. Manual assessment therefore still seems necessary at this point and external video-recording is necessary for valid assessment. To improve the reliability, the test course should include more cases to achieve a higher G-coefficient and a higher pass/fail standard should be used.
Middle-aged Central American men’s perceptions of a healthy body weight, excess body weight and its relationship to chronic disease: Qualitative findings
Authors: Charter-Harris Jasmine , Cheney Marshall K , Visek Amanda J , Griffith Derek M , Robien Kim , Rivera Ivonne , Lora Karina R 
Published: October 2024

Objective: To explore Central American men’s perceptions of healthy body weight, factors that influence weight gain and increase awareness of being overweight/obese, consequences of excess weight gain and gender similarities and differences in body weight. Design: In-depth, qualitative interviews were conducted with low-income, overweight or obese Central American men residing in the USA ( n = 25). Setting: Semi-structured, individual interviews (via Zoom or phone call) were conducted in Washington, DC in 2020–2021. Methods: Participants discussed their thoughts on the meaning of healthy weight; the role that weight management plays in the likelihood of getting diseases such as diabetes, cancer or hypertension; and whether having a healthy weight is different for men and women. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed and analysed to identify themes using NVivo v12. Results: Participants were first-generation immigrants (mean age 50.9 ± 6.4) and had resided in the USA for 23.7 ± 10.2 years. They defined healthy weight as having the energy to carry on daily activities, not carrying extra body fat, being in good physical health, and having a balance between height and weight. Participants discussed having an unbalanced diet, not engaging in physical activity and getting older influenced weight gain. Factors that raised awareness of their weight gain included doctors’ advice and cognisance of their current body weight. Participants in the study discussed the connection between weight status and some chronic diseases (i.e. cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and SARS-CoV-2 virus infection); cancer was the least discussed. Participants discussed that both men and women should have a healthy weight and contributing factors to why men weigh more than women. Conclusion: Health promotion interventions for Central American immigrant men should consider framing weight management as a means to continue fulfilling important social and cultural roles and responsibilities. Future research should examine Central American men’s perceptions of weight management as part of cancer prevention.
Multidimensional Poverty and Quality of Governance in Indian States
Authors: Roy Amrita 
Published: October 2024

This study analyses the role of the quality of governance in poverty reduction while looking at the experiences of different states in India in terms of multidimensional poverty over the period 2001–2016. Controlling for the average income of the state and other state-specific factors, the study finds that the quality of governance is statistically significant in all the estimated equations. Our results clearly indicate that better-performing states with respect to governance have also performed better in terms of poverty reduction. The relationship between the quality of governance and poverty incidence remains significant even when we consider different dimensions of deprivation. This study contributes to the scant literature addressing the question of the importance of quality governance to reduce poverty. JEL Codes: O10, O150, O170
Automatic feature segmentation in dental panoramic radiographs
Authors: Jagtap Rohan , Samata Yalamanchili , Parekh Amisha , Tretto Pedro , Vujanovic Tamara , Naik Purnachandrarao , Griggs Jason , Friedel Alan , Feinberg Maxine , Jaju Prashant , Roach Michael D. , Suri Mini , Garrido Michelle Briner 
Published: October 2024

Objective The purpose of the present study was to verify the diagnostic performance of an AI system for the automatic detection of teeth, caries, implants, restorations, and fixed prosthesis on panoramic radiography. Methods This is a cross-sectional study. A dataset comprising 1000 panoramic radiographs collected from 500 adult patients was analyzed by an AI system and compared with annotations provided by two oral and maxillofacial radiologists. Results A strong correlation (R > 0.5) was observed between AI perception and observers 1 and 2 in carious teeth (0.691–0.878), implants (0.770–0.952), restored teeth (0.773–0.834), teeth with fixed prostheses (0.972–0.980), and missing teeth (0.956–0.988). Discussion Panoramic radiographs are commonly used for diagnosis and treatment planning. However, they often suffer from artifacts, distortions, and superimpositions, leading to potential misinterpretations. Thus, an automated detection system is required to tackle these challenges. Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various fields, including dentistry, by enabling the development of intelligent systems that can assist in complex tasks such as diagnosis and treatment planning. Conclusion The automatic detection by the AI system was comparable to oral radiologists and may be useful for automatic identifications in panoramic radiographs. These findings signify the potential for AI systems to enhance diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in dental practices, potentially reducing the likelihood of diagnostic errors caused by unexperienced professionals.
COVID-19-related morbidity and mortality in people with multiple long-term conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of over 4 million people
Authors: Salisu-Olatunji Shukrat O , Chudasama Yogini V , Kaur Navjot , Kayani Zara , Odugbemi Babatunde A , Bolodeoku Olasope Esther , Konnor Shirley Akua , Vounzoulaki Elpida , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Fahami Radia , Valabhji Jonathan , Banerjee Amitava , Zaccardi Francesco , Gillies Clare L , Khunti Kamlesh 
Published: October 2024

Objectives To describe the direct impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection on morbidity and mortality in people with multiple long-term conditions (MLTCs). Design A systematic review and meta-analysis including observational studies. Setting Studies conducted between 1 January 2020 and 4 May 2023 across 51 countries were identified from five databases. Participants A total of 4,084,469 patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection. Main outcome measures Pooled risk ratios (RRs) for mortality, hospitalisation, severe disease, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mechanical ventilation were estimated with random effect meta-analysis models. Results A total of 38,356 studies were identified and 111 included. In most (74%) of the studies, MLTCs referred to having two or more long-term conditions. Others described MLTCs by high weighted indices: the Charlson Comorbidity Index in 11% and the Clinical Frailty Score in 7%. Using the National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool for observational studies, the risk of bias was judged as low and moderate in 86 and 25 studies, respectively. Having MLTCs was associated with increased mortality (RR: 2.61 [95% CI: 2.27 to 3.0]); hospitalisation (2.4 [1.92 to 2.99]); severe disease (2.61 [1.92 to 3.54]); ICU admission (1.22 [1.07 to 1.39]) and mechanical ventilation (1.83 [1.18 to 2.84]) compared with those with no MLTCs. Pooled RRs for adverse outcomes were higher in children and young people compared with all age groups. In meta-regression analyses, men were more likely to need ICU admission ( p = 0.013) and mechanical ventilation ( p = 0.002). Conclusions Public health policies, clinical and preventative interventions should prioritise people with MLTCs to minimise direct adverse outcomes from COVID-19 disease.
A rapid review of the evidence for online interventions for bereavement support
Authors: Finucane Anne , Canny Anne , Mair Ally Pax Arcari , Harrop Emily , Selman Lucy E , Swash Brooke , Wakefield Donna , Gillanders David 
Published: October 2024

Background: Grieving is a natural process, and many people adjust with support from family and friends. Around 40% of people would benefit from additional input. Online bereavement support interventions may increase access to support. Evidence regarding their acceptability and effectiveness is emerging but needs to be synthesised. Aim: To synthesise evidence on the feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, impacts and implementation of online interventions to improve wellbeing, coping and quality of life after bereavement. Design: A rapid review of evidence regarding online bereavement support. We appraised study quality using AMSTAR 2 and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Data sources: English language articles published 1 January 2010 to 4 January 2024, using Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and APA PsycINFO. Eligible articles examined formal and informal online interventions to improve bereavement outcomes. Results: We screened 2050 articles by title and abstract. Four systematic reviews and 35 individual studies were included. Online bereavement support was feasible, acceptable and effective in reducing grief intensity, stress-related outcomes and depression. Where reported, participant retention was typically >70%. Positive impacts included: access to a supportive community at any time, reduced isolation; opportunities to process feelings; normalisation of loss responses; access to coping advice and opportunities for meaning-making and remembrance. Negative impacts included upset due to insensitive comments from others via unmoderated online forums. Conclusion: Online interventions can widen access to acceptable, effective bereavement support and improve outcomes for bereaved people. National policies and clinical guidelines relating to bereavement support need to be updated to take account of online formats.
Fully automated measurement of noise, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast-to-noise ratio on chest CT images: feasibility and efficiency
Authors: Mei Bozhe , Ma Zhangman , Fu Wanyun , He Linyang , Ma Zhicheng , Gong Xiangyang 
Published: October 2024

Background Rapid and accurate measurement of computed tomography (CT) image noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) is a clinical challenge. Purpose To explore the feasibility of intelligent measurement of chest CT image noise, SNR, and CNR. Material and Methods A total of 300 chest CT scans were included in the study, which was divided into research dataset, internal test dataset, and external test dataset. Based on the research dataset, automatically segment and measure the average CT values and standard deviation (SD) of CT values for background air and lung field under different thresholds to obtain noise, SNR, and CNR results. Using the results of manual measurements as the reference standard, we determine the optimal threshold with the highest consistency. Using internal and external test datasets, validate the consistency of automated measurements of noise, SNR, and CNR at the optimal CT threshold with reference standards. Results With background air set at −900 HU and lung field at −800 HU as thresholds, the automated measurements of noise, SNR, and CNR demonstrate the highest consistency with the reference standards. At the optimal threshold, the noise, SNR, and CNR measured automatically on both the internal (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.85–0.96) and external (ICC = 0.75–0.85) test datasets exhibit high consistency with their respective reference standards. Conclusion The method we explored can intelligently measure the noise, SNR, and CNR of chest CT images, exhibits high consistency with radiologists, and offers a novel tool for image quality evaluation and analysis.
Co-design of an outcome measure for hand burn injuries
Authors: Mc Kittrick Andrea , Gustafsson Louise , Hodson Tenelle , Di Tommaso Amelia 
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Measurement of postburn injury is important to assess impact of interventions, monitor symptoms, and direct treatment. Outcome measures are important to enable patients’ views to be incorporated into their clinical care and direct healthcare. To date, there are few patient-reported outcome measures specific for the burn’s population, only one specific patient reported questionnaire exists for hand burn injuries. For outcome measures to be person focused, it is important to have individuals who have experienced the injury join the development team to consult and advise on properties for inclusion. The aim of this study was to co-design a specific outcome measure for severe hand burn injuries. Methods: Participatory Action Research was used to co-design the outcome measure with experienced allied health professionals, individuals with hand burn injuries, and researchers. Participatory Action Research acknowledges the depth and breadth of experience of all co-researchers. Content analysis was used to systematically analyze meaning and relationships from each cycle. Results: In cycle 1—the constructs for measurement and activities for inclusion in the outcome measure were selected over a series of virtual meetings. The 18 activities included measure patterns of hand movement, pinch, and grip strength, which can be repeatedly measured over time across recovery. In cycle 2—two rating scales were developed one for clinicians and one for patients. Conclusion: The newly developed outcome measure will require further testing to determine psychometric properties.
Prognostic value of miR-190a-5p in renal cell cancer and its regulatory effect on tumor progression
Authors: Liu Jun , Zhang Lili , Wang Zhancheng , Li Hu , Wang Bo , Liu Xiaoqiang 
Published: October 2024

Purpose As a usual malignant tumor in urinary system, renal cell cancer is regulated by microRNAs (miRNAs). This study revealed the prognostic value and regulatory effect of miR-190a-5p in renal cell cancer patients. Methods A total of 253 renal cell cancer patients were included for prognostic value analysis. The target gene of miR-190a-5p was detected by luciferase reporter assay. Cell Counting Kit-8 analysis and Transwell analysis were performed to explore the proliferation, removal capability, and invasiveness of 786–0 and A498 cells. Prognostic value was calculated by Kaplan–Meier curve and Cox regression analysis. Results miR-190a-5p was more down-regulated in tumor tissues than in adjacent tissues. Renal cell cancer cases were differed as low and high groups ground on mean miR-190a-5p expression in tumor tissues. Overall survival probability was obviously high in patients with high miR-190a-5p level (log-rank test P = 0.011). Cox regression analysis revealed that miR-190a-5p expression (relative risk (RR) = 1.751, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.057–2.900, P = 0.030) and tumor node metastasis stage (RR = 1.719, 95% CI = 1.059–2.792, P = 0.028) were specialty indicators for poor renal cell cancer prognosis. GDF11 was directly targeting miR-190a-5p. Overexpressed miR-190a-5p could reduce the GDF11 expression, proliferation, removal capability, and invasiveness of renal cell cancer 786–0 and A498 cells. Elevated GDF11 could lead to a changeover of proliferation, removal capability, and invasiveness inhibition, which is induced by miR-190a-5p. Conclusion miR-190a-5p was reduced in renal cell cancer tissues, and predicted worse outcomes of renal cell cancer cases. Overexpressed miR-190a-5p could restrain the proliferation, removal capability, and invasiveness of renal cell cancer cells via suppressing GDF11.
Differential Longitudinal Associations Between Depressive Symptoms and Cognitive Status by Living Situation in Older Adults
Authors: Stephan Abigail T. , Chai Hye Won , McVey Ava , Sprague Briana N. , Wolf Annamaria V. , Phillips Christine B. , Ross Lesley A. 
Published: October 2024

This study explores whether living situation modifies longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and changes in cognitive status across ten years in generally healthy, community-dwelling older adults. Participants ( N = 687, Mage = 73.92 years) from the no-contact control condition of a multisite longitudinal study completed the Mini-Mental State Examination, Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale, and self-reported living situation. Multilevel models revealed that for older adults living alone, having clinically meaningful depressive symptoms was associated with greater decline in MMSE over ten years. However, reporting clinically meaningful depressive symptoms was not associated with decline in MMSE for adults who were living with others. These results suggest that living situation may be a modifying factor of cognitive change over time for older adults with clinically meaningful depressive symptoms. This highlights the need for targeted interventions for adults who may be at a greater risk of cognitive decline across older adulthood.