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Heliyon Jun 2024This study investigates the digital technology capacity of women with disabilities and the impact of access to digital business opportunities on their entrepreneurial...
This study investigates the digital technology capacity of women with disabilities and the impact of access to digital business opportunities on their entrepreneurial satisfaction. A sample of 50 women with disabilities in the Red River Delta region of Vietnam provided 35 valid responses, which were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling. The results showed that five key factors, including course relevance, course expectancy, instructor quality, learning outcomes, and course satisfaction, accounted for 78.39 % of the variance in the data. The proposed model explained 61.3 % of the amount of variation and the study's findings supported the predicted relationships among the factors, except for two hypotheses. H1, which postulated a positive relationship between course relevance and instructor quality, and H5, which predicted a positive relationship between learning outcomes and course satisfaction. Possible reasons for these non-significant relationships were discussed, highlighting the need for further research in these areas. The findings contribute to our understanding of the factors that affect the digital technology capacity of women with disabilities and their satisfaction with digital business opportunities.
PubMed: 38933956
DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32473 -
Heliyon Jun 2024Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined complex neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by persistent social communication and interaction deficit.... (Review)
Review
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined complex neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by persistent social communication and interaction deficit. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a promising and emerging tool for the intervention of ASD by reducing both core and associate symptoms. Several reviews have been published regarding TMS-based ASD treatment, however, a systematic review on study characteristics, specific stimulating parameters, localization techniques, stimulated targets, behavioral outcomes, and neuroimage biomarker changes is lagged behind since 2018. Here, we performed a systematic search on literatures published after 2018 in PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct. After screening, the final systematic review included 17 articles, composing seven randomized controlled trial studies and ten open-label studies. Two studies are double-blind, while the other studies have a moderate to high risk of bias attributing to inadequate subject- and evaluator-blinding to treatment allocation. Five studies utilize theta-burst stimulation mode, and the others apply repetitive TMS with low frequency (five studies), high frequency (six studies), and combined low and high frequency stimulation (one study). Most researchers prioritize the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal lobe as stimulation target, while parietal lobule, inferior parietal lobule, and posterior superior temporal sulci have also emerged as new targets of attention. One third of the studies use neuronavigation based on anatomical magnetic resonance imaging to locate the stimulation target. After TMS intervention, discernible enhancements across a spectrum of scales are evident in stereotyped behavior, repetitive behavior, and verbal social domains. A comprehensive review of literature spanning the last five years demonstrates the potential of TMS treatment for ASD in ameliorating the clinical core symptoms.
PubMed: 38933955
DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32251 -
Heliyon Jun 2024This research tries to investigate the dynamic link between higher education institution (HEIs) transformational leaders (TFL) and follower's outcome innovative work...
This research tries to investigate the dynamic link between higher education institution (HEIs) transformational leaders (TFL) and follower's outcome innovative work behavior (IWB) and Task Performance) through Knowledge sharing (KNS) in Pakistan. Using quantitative design an adopted construct was used to obtain response from HEIs leaders and employees behavior. The obtained information was analyzed through structural equation modeling (SEM) technique via Smart PLS. Results depict that direct link between University Transformational leadership and employees Innovative work behavior as well as Task Performance. The results further postulate that KNS mediate the relationship between Transformational leadership and employees TSP in the context of HEIs. Surprisingly, KNS could not evident to become a mediating variable to strengthen the relationship between transformational Leadership and employees IWB in the HEIs sector of Pakistan. In addition to enhancing the theoretical comprehension of higher education leadership, the outcomes of this article provide that promoting knowledge sharing culture is valuable asset for both existing and future HEIs leaders in order to promote the culture of innovation and creativity. Although recent studies investigate the role of KNS as a mediator, however the current study use KNS as contemporaneous intervening variable for IWB and Task Performance for the first time. The study also confirms theoretical underpinning of social exchange mechanism in strengthening the relationship between leader member's continuum.
PubMed: 38933951
DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32280 -
Frontiers in Nutrition 2024Intermittent fasting (IF) and exercise training (Exe) have been evaluated in several studies for improving cardiometabolic biomarkers related to weight loss. However,...
Effects of intermittent fasting combined with exercise on serum leptin and adiponectin in adults with or without obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.
CONTEXT
Intermittent fasting (IF) and exercise training (Exe) have been evaluated in several studies for improving cardiometabolic biomarkers related to weight loss. However, further investigation is required to understand the potential effects on leptin and adiponectin concentrations. IF protocols have been shown to be efficient in improving adipokines, but further research is required to determine whether or not IF regimens combined with Exe are superior to Exe alone.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to determine whether or not interventions combining IF plus Exe are more effective than Exe only for improving serum leptin and adiponectin in adults with and without obesity.
DATA EXTRACTION
A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases up to August 2023 for randomized clinical trials that determined the effects of IF plus Exe vs. Exe alone (control) on body weight, serum leptin, and serum adiponectin. Analyses were conducted for IF plus Exe vs. Exe alone to calculate weighted mean differences (WMD) and standardized mean differences (SMD).
ANALYSIS
The current meta-analysis included 6 studies with a total sample of 153 participants, with intervention durations ranging from three days to 52 weeks. IF plus Exe elicited significantly larger decreases in leptin levels [SMD = -0.47, = 0.03], which were accompanied by weight loss [WMD = -1.25 kg, = 0.05], as compared with exercise-only interventions, but adiponectin did not differ between the two [SMD = 0.02, = 0.9].
CONCLUSION
IF combined with Exe reduced leptin significantly, but did not change adiponectin levels, when compared to exercise only. Perhaps these reductions in leptin levels may have been associated with weight loss; however, due to the small number of included studies and the high heterogeneity in the weight loss outcomes, this result is uncertain.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42023460735.
PubMed: 38933888
DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2024.1362731 -
Frontiers in Endocrinology 2024Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging non-surgical treatment for benign thyroid nodules (BTN). Despite its proven safety profile, data on the learning curve (LC)...
OBJECTIVE
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an emerging non-surgical treatment for benign thyroid nodules (BTN). Despite its proven safety profile, data on the learning curve (LC) required to achieve proficiency are still lacking.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The first 179 RFA procedures performed by a single operator in patients with non-functioning BTN were retrospectively analyzed. Six-month nodule volume reduction rate (VRR) ≥ 50% was regarded as reflection of proficiency. Multiple linear regression analysis has been performed to determine the relationship between the VRR and clinical variables. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) charts were plotted to assess LCs for all consecutive procedures and in relation to basal nodule size. In details, Group 1 (G1): 57 patients with small nodules (<10 ml); Group 2 (G2): 87 patients with intermediate nodules (10 - 25 ml); Group 3 (G3): 35 patients with large size (> 25 ml).
RESULTS
LC of all 179 procedures showed 3 phases: initial learning (1-39 procedures); consolidation (40-145 procedures); and experienced period (146-179 procedures). For G1 and G2 proficiency is achieved starting from the 10th procedure within the group (or 37th considering consecutively all procedures) and from the 59th procedure within the group (or 116th considering consecutively all procedures), respectively. LC of G3 did not detect operator proficiency.
CONCLUSION
Specific LCs exist concerning the basal size of the nodule treated with RFA. In nodules with baseline volume > 25 ml suboptimal VRR has to be expected. Previously achieved experience on small-intermediate nodules does not seem to provide advantages in terms of higher VRR in the treatment of large nodules. Other potential and non-modifiable factors likely play a key role in the final volume reduction independently from the increased skill of the operator.
Topics: Humans; Thyroid Nodule; Female; Male; Radiofrequency Ablation; Retrospective Studies; Middle Aged; Adult; Learning Curve; Clinical Competence; Aged; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38933827
DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1399912 -
Frontiers in Endocrinology 2024The utilization of frozen embryo transfer not only enhances reproductive outcomes by elevating the likelihood of live birth and clinical pregnancy but also improves... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
INTRODUCTION
The utilization of frozen embryo transfer not only enhances reproductive outcomes by elevating the likelihood of live birth and clinical pregnancy but also improves safety by mitigating the risks associated with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple pregnancies. There has been an increasing debate in recent years regarding the advisability of making elective frozen embryo transfer the standard practice. Our study aims to determine the optimal choice between fresh and frozen embryo transfer, as well as whether the transfer should occur at the cleavage or blastocyst stage.
METHOD
In this retrospective cohort study conducted in Taiwan, data from the national assisted reproductive technology (ART) database spanning from January 1st, 2013, to December 31st, 2017, were analyzed. The study included 51,762 eligible female participants who underwent ART and embryo transfer. Pregnancy outcomes, maternal complications, and singleton neonatal outcomes were evaluated using the National Health Insurance Database from January 1st, 2013, to December 31st, 2018. Cases were categorized into groups based on whether they underwent fresh or frozen embryo transfers, with further subdivision into cleavage stage and blastocyst stage transfers. Exposure variables encompassed clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, OHSS, pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes mellitus (DM), placenta previa, placental abruption, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), gestational age, newborn body weight, and route of delivery.
RESULTS
Frozen blastocyst transfers showed higher rates of clinical pregnancy (CPR) and live births (LBR) compared to fresh blastocyst transfers. Conversely, frozen cleavage stage transfers demonstrated lower rates of clinical pregnancy and live birth compared to fresh cleavage stage transfers. Frozen embryo transfers were associated with reduced risks of OHSS but were linked to a higher risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension compared to fresh embryo transfers. Additionally, frozen embryo transfers were associated with a higher incidence of large for gestational age infants and a lower incidence of small for gestational age infants.
CONCLUSION
The freeze-all strategy may not be suitable for universal application. When embryos can develop to the blastocyst stage, FET is a favorable choice, but embryos can only develop to the cleavage stage, fresh embryo transfer becomes a more reasonable option.
Topics: Humans; Female; Pregnancy; Embryo Transfer; Adult; Retrospective Studies; Cryopreservation; Pregnancy Outcome; Infant, Newborn; Taiwan; Pregnancy Rate; Cohort Studies; Fertilization in Vitro; Live Birth; Blastocyst
PubMed: 38933826
DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1400255 -
British Journal of Biomedical Science 2024The Biomedical Scientist (BMS) role is established in healthcare, working in laboratory environments to provide diagnostic testing and to monitor treatment effects on a...
INTRODUCTION
The Biomedical Scientist (BMS) role is established in healthcare, working in laboratory environments to provide diagnostic testing and to monitor treatment effects on a patients' health. The profession is subject to several professional standards which highlight the importance of working in the best interests of the patient and service user. However, Biomedical Scientists have little or no patient contact. This study aimed to determine how Biomedical Scientists evidence that they meet the professional standards and support the achievement of patient outcomes.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
This study utilised a Delphi method to explore the opinions of professional stakeholders to determine whether there was consensus for how this professional group contributes to patient outcomes and offers evidence that they are working in the best interests of the patient. The qualitative 1st round of the study consisted of focus groups and interviews with staff and students on the BSc Biomedical Science awards, Professional, Statutory and Regulatory body (PSRB) representatives and Biomedical Scientists from the National Health Service (NHS). The first-round responses were analysed using thematic analysis which then generated attitude statements which participants scored using a 5-point Likert scale in the 2nd round. Consensus or divergence of opinion was determined based upon a 70% consensus level within each participant group and overall.
RESULTS
Following analysis of the 2nd round data, there was divergence of opinion across all stakeholders, with consensus rates being highest in the Biomedical Scientist group (72.7% of statements reached 70% consensus), followed by the student group (54.5% of statements reached 70% consensus) and lowest in the academic group (40.9% of statements reached 70% consensus).
DISCUSSION
This demonstrates a theory-practice gap in both the academic and student groups, suggesting that graduates are insufficiently prepared for their post-graduate role. This gap was particularly evident when discussing topics such as how Biomedical Scientists contribute to patient care, professional registration and working as part of the multi-disciplinary team (MDT). The identification of a theory-practice gap in the education of Biomedical Scientists is a novel finding, indicating that students may graduate with insufficient understanding of the Biomedical Scientist role.
Topics: Humans; Biomedical Research; Delphi Technique; Focus Groups; Consensus; Research Personnel; Male; Female
PubMed: 38933755
DOI: 10.3389/bjbs.2024.12629 -
Clinical Case Reports Jul 2024Cemental tears, root cracks, and associated periapical-periodontal lesions may occur simultaneously in one tooth, and can be effectively managed by intentional...
Cemental tears, root cracks, and associated periapical-periodontal lesions may occur simultaneously in one tooth, and can be effectively managed by intentional replantation and etiological control. A durable splint, along with occlusal and periodontal monitoring, is required as healing progresses slowly and may be insufficient.
PubMed: 38933709
DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.9088 -
Frontiers in Veterinary Science 2024Intracapsular reconstruction (ICR) has long been recommended as a treatment for cranial cruciate ligament deficiency (CCLD) in dogs, but it has fallen out of favor due...
Intracapsular reconstruction (ICR) has long been recommended as a treatment for cranial cruciate ligament deficiency (CCLD) in dogs, but it has fallen out of favor due to its inferior long-term functional outcomes. These outcomes may be attributed to the poor stiffness and strength of the graft in the early period before ligamentization is completed. Additional placement of extracapsular sutures to mechanically protect the graft during the ligamentization process may be a viable method to address this problem. However, the biomechanical effect of this combined surgical approach remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the 3D kinematics of the CCLD stifle in dogs in response to ICR and combined extra- and intracapsular reconstruction (CEICR). Twelve hindlimbs were collected from nine cadavers of mature dogs. The limbs were tested using a custom-made testing apparatus that reproduces their sagittal plane kinematics during the stance phase. Four statuses of stifle joints were tested, namely, (a) cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) intact; (b) CCLD; (c) CCLD stifle stabilized by CEICR; and (d) CCLD stifle stabilized by ICR only. Three-dimensional stifle kinematics at the 5 instances of the stance phase were measured with an optoelectronic system. The results showed that ICR marginally corrects the increased adduction, internal rotation, and caudodistal stifle joint center displacement that occur as a result of CCLD. CEICR led to better restoration of the stifle kinematics, especially with respect to the internal rotation and cranial translation stabilities. Furthermore, CEICR only resulted in minor excessive restraints on other motion components. The findings indicated that the additional lateral fabellotibial suture offers immediate stability to the stifle, consequently lowering the risk of graft over-elongation in the short term postoperatively. Considering the propensity for the extracapsular suture to degrade over time, further studies are warranted to explore the long-term effects of the CEICR procedure.
PubMed: 38933704
DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1336797 -
Frontiers in Pharmacology 2024The association between the administration of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) during acute kidney injury (AKI) and the incidence of major adverse...
BACKGROUND
The association between the administration of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) during acute kidney injury (AKI) and the incidence of major adverse kidney events (MAKEs) is not known.
METHODS
This retrospective cohort study included patients with AKI and compared the outcomes for those who were treated with SGLT2is during hospitalization and those without SGLT2i treatment. The associations of SGLT2i use with MAKEs at 10 and 30-90 days, each individual MAKE component, and the pre-specified patient subgroups were analyzed.
RESULTS
From 2021 to 2023, 374 patients were included in the study-316 without SGLT2i use and 58 with SGLT2i use. Patients who were treated with SGLT2is were older; had a greater prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, chronic heart failure, and chronic kidney disease; required hemodialysis less often; and presented stage 3 AKI less frequently than those who were not treated with SGLT2is. Logistic regression analysis with nearest-neighbor matching revealed that SGLT2i use was not associated with the risk of MAKE10 (OR 1.08 [0.45-2.56]) or with MAKE30-90 (OR 0.76 [0.42-1.36]). For death, the stepwise approach demonstrated that SGLT2i use was associated with a reduced risk (OR 0.08; 0.01-0.64), and no effect was found for kidney replacement therapy (KRT). The subgroups of patients who experienced a reduction in the risk of MAKEs in patients with AKI treated with SGLT2is were those older than 61 years, those with an eGFR >81, and those without a history of hypertension or DM ( ≤ 0.05 for all).
CONCLUSION
The use of SGLT2is during AKI had no effect on short- or medium-term MAKEs, but some subgroups of patients may have experienced benefits from SGLT2i treatment.
PubMed: 38933678
DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1356991