Predictors Of Effectiveness Research Articles

The role of automated controls and streamlined compliance in managing risks in digital finance

This study investigates the role of automated controls and streamlined compliance in managing risk in digital finance institutions. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis and qualitative insights from leading Indian digital finance companies (CRED, ZEST MONEY and PHONE PAY), the research examines the effectiveness of advanced technologies in enhancing risk management practices. The study found strong positive correlations between the adoption of automated controls and key performance metrics, including the fraud detection rate (0.68), regulatory reporting accuracy (0.72), and overall risk management effectiveness (0.75). Regression analysis revealed that automated control implementation was the strongest predictor of risk management effectiveness. A comparative analysis of different digital finance models highlights the varying challenges and benefits of implementing these technologies. This study proposes a holistic, future-proof framework that integrates AI, machine learning and blockchain for real-time risk monitoring, automated regulatory reporting and dynamic compliance management. This framework addresses the limitations of the current fragmented approaches and offers a scalable solution that is adaptable to evolving regulatory landscapes. The findings of this study have significant implications for practitioners and policymakers, emphasizing the need for investment in strong automated systems and adaptive regulatory frameworks. While acknowledging the limitations in sample size and longitudinal scope, this research provides a foundation for future studies and offers practical insights for enhancing risk management in the rapidly evolving digital finance sector. The study concludes that effective integration of automated controls and streamlined compliance is crucial for ensuring the resilience, integrity and sustainable growth of the digital finance ecosystem.

Clinical supervision effectiveness in NHS nursing, medical and allied health professionals: Exploring interaction with workplace factors, supervision factors and burnout.

The study aimed to (1) determine if a variety of workplace and supervision factors predict clinical supervision effectiveness; and (2) establish if clinical supervision effectiveness predicts burnout, amongst a variety of mental health staff (medical, allied health, and nursing staff). The study adopted a multicentre cross-sectional online survey design. Participants included 204 mental health staff (89 allied health staff, 81 nursing staff, and 34 medical staff). The Manchester Clinical Supervision Scale (MCSS-26) was used to measure clinical supervision effectiveness, and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI-HSS) was used to measure burnout. Linear regression analyses and multiple regression analyses were conducted. The main findings suggested that supervision frequency, supervision duration, choice of supervisor, workplace setting, and supervisee profession, were all significant predictors of clinical supervision effectiveness. Additionally, clinical supervision effectiveness was a significant negative predictor of burnout. Workplace and supervision factors should be considered in supervision practice across professional groups. Policies need to promote effective clinical supervision practice.

Statistical analysis of predictors of effectiveness of complex physiotherapeutic treatment in patients with involutional skin changes

BACKGROUND: Analysis of predictors of the effectiveness of various treatment regimens for diseases, as well as the correction of involutionary processes in the human body, is increasingly becoming a standard in scientific medical research. The technology for identifying them traditionally includes the use of correlation and regression analysis, as well as the principles of correlation adaptometry, which makes it possible to approach the solution of this problem from the position of system analysis. AIM: Analysis of predictors of the effectiveness of correction of involutive skin changes in middle-aged and older women with metabolic syndrome using various therapeutic regimens, including hyaluronic acid laser phoresis and the use of transcranial magnetic therapy in combination with oxygen barotherapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out with the participation of 60 patients from middle and older age with involutional changes in the skin against the background of metabolic syndrome. All patients were divided into 2 groups using simple fixed randomization. The first group (comparison, 30 patients) received laser phoresis of hyaluronic acid in the form of a 1.5% sodium hyaluronate gel using a laser and laser-vacuum therapy device LAZMIK. Patients of the second group (main group, 30 patients) were prescribed combined physiotherapy. For transcranial magnetic therapy, the Amo-Atos device with the Headband attachment was used, and oxygen barotherapy was carried out in single pressure chambers of the Oka-MT or Irtysh-Shch1 type under a pressure of 2 atm for 1 hour. RESULTS: It was found that in the initial state, the quality of life of patients with involutional changes in the skin against the background of metabolic skin syndrome was largely determined by the presence of pathological correlation galaxies that integrate changes in the condition of the skin, metabolic disorders, indicators of oxidative stress and microhemodynamics, and the activity of proinflammatory cytokines. At the same time, the leading role in the deterioration of the quality of life belonged to the age of the patients, the insulin resistance index, transepidermal water loss and microcirculation indicator. However, predictors of effectiveness varied across different treatment regimens. With laser phoresis of hyaluronic acid, its effectiveness increases in younger women with minimal involutional manifestations of skin aging, tested for the condition of the skin, while combined physiotherapy is also most effective in women with a low average age limit, with minimal manifestations of metabolic syndrome and inflammatory processes, as well as against the background of high activity values of one of the enzymes of antioxidant protection ― superoxide dismutase. CONCLUSION: The results obtained convincingly prove the effectiveness of combination therapy in correcting involutive skin changes in middle-aged and older women due to metabolic syndrome, which is comparable in a number of parameters to the effectiveness of hyaluronic acid laser phoresis. At the same time, predictors of effectiveness depend on the characteristics of the mechanisms of therapeutic action of the treatment regimens used, which allows for a more correct approach to the choice of personalized treatment methods.

Long-term efficacy and survival of ustekinumab therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

The article reviews data on the long-term effectiveness and survival of biological therapies for treating inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It highlights the shift in treatment goals, emphasizing not only induction and maintenance of remission but also long-term outcomes. The choice of therapy is becoming increasingly complex, as it must consider both clinical efficacy and endoscopic remission, which, serves as a predictor of long-term treatment effectiveness. Special attention is given to ustekinumab – antibodies targeting interleukins 12 and 23. This drug has shown high long-term effectiveness and safety in treating ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Studies indicate that ustekinumab effectively maintains clinical remission in patients, providing stable results and a low rate of serious adverse events. Long-term data also highlight its advantages over other biological agents, such as infliximab and adalimumab, in terms of therapy sustainability. The article includes data from clinical trials of ustekinumab extending up to 5 years, demonstrating good treatment sustainability, as well as various real-world practice studies confirming the prolonged effectiveness of ustekinumab in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The article evaluates and analyzes these data on long-term effectiveness and drug survival and also emphasizes the importance of an individualized approach in selecting therapy, taking into account prior treatment experience and inflammation activity.

Compare the teaching effectiveness and student satisfaction between native Japanese language teachers and non-native Japanese language teachers

This study examines the comparative teaching effectiveness and student satisfaction between native Japanese language teachers (NJLTs) and non-native Japanese language teachers (NNJLTs). Utilizing a sample of 740 students from various educational institutions in Japan, the research employs a quantitative design, including structured questionnaires adapted from established scales. Advanced statistical methods, including factor analysis and multiple regression, were used to analyze the data. The findings reveal no significant differences in student satisfaction and language proficiency between students taught by NJLTs and NNJLTs. Additionally, regression analysis showed that cultural relatability and empathy were not significant predictors of teaching effectiveness, suggesting that factors beyond nativeness influence student outcomes. These results challenge the native-speakerism ideology, highlighting the importance of pedagogical skills, teacher-student rapport, and effective teaching strategies. The study underscores the need for inclusive hiring practices, comprehensive teacher training programs, and collaborative teaching models that leverage the strengths of both NJLTs and NNJLTs. Implications for educational policy, curriculum design, and teacher professional development are discussed, advocating for a balanced approach that values the contributions of both native and non-native teachers. Limitations include the reliance on self-reported data and the specific cultural context of Japan. Future research should explore additional variables, employ longitudinal designs, and utilize mixed-methods approaches to provide a more nuanced understanding of language teaching effectiveness.

Long-term outcome of unilateral adrenalectomy for primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia.

Primary bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasia (PBMAH) is a form of Cushing's syndrome (CS) characterized by heterogeneous cortisol secretion and clinical comorbidities. Previously, bilateral adrenalectomy was the standard treatment for PBMAH, but this approach carried a high risk of primary adrenocortical insufficiency. In recent decades, unilateral adrenalectomy (U-Adx) has emerged as an effective alternative. However, limited research exists on its postoperative efficacy and prognostic predictors. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the long-term effectiveness and prognostic predictors of U-Adx in treating PBMAH. A total of 61 patients with PBMAH diagnosis who underwent U-Adx at a single center between 2004 and 2022 were retrospectively evaluated. Patients were categorized into persistent hypercortisolism and remission groups based on postoperative biochemical outcomes at the last follow-up (>12 months after U-Adx). Clinical characteristics, comorbidities, plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), serum cortisol, and 24-h urinary-free cortisol (24-h UFC) levels were analyzed pre- and postoperatively. We further examined whether baseline plasma ACTH, serum cortisol, 24-h UFC levels, and the inhibition of cortisol and 24-h UFC after a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) could predict non-remission following U-Adx. Additionally, we explored the improvements in hypertension, abnormal glucose metabolism, osteoporosis, and other complications in patients with PBMAH post-U-Adx. After U-Adx, 22 of the 45 patients (48.89%) achieved initial remission within 6 months. At the last follow-up, 25 of the 45 patients underwent all required biochemical tests and cortisol assessment tests, among which eight of 25 (32.00%) were in remission and 17 of 25 (68.00%) were experiencing persistent hypercortisolism. Moreover, five of those 25 patients exhibited recurrence after initial remission. Baseline 24-h UFC level > 2 times the upper limit of normal (2ULN) and unsuppressed 24-h UFC after LDDST may predict persistent hypercortisolism postoperatively. Lastly, long-term postoperative follow-up revealed that hypertension decreased with hypercortisolism remission, whereas osteoporosis worsened with persistent hypercortisolism. The short-term remission rate of hypercortisolism was 48.89% in patients with PBMAH treated with U-Adx, while a long-term remission rate of 32.00% was achieved after a median follow-up of 38.58 months. Furthermore, this finding suggests that baseline 24-h UFC level > 2ULN and unsuppressed 24-h UFC after LDDST predict persistent hypercortisolism in the long-term post-U-Adx. Finally, U-Adx improved cortisol circadian rhythm alterations and ACTH suppression in the patients in the remission group, thereby substantially alleviating hypertension and delaying the development of osteoporosis linked to PBMAH.

Mpox in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus: Predictors of Diagnosis, Outcomes, and Vaccine Effectiveness in a Multisite Cohort.

Since its global reemergence in 2022, monkeypox (mpox) has demonstrated increased incidence and severity among people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV [PWH]). Predictors of mpox diagnosis, vaccination, and outcomes among PWH are limited. We included PWH with primary care visits after 1 January 2022 at 9 US sites participating in the Centers for AIDS Research Network of Integrated Clinic Systems Network. We identified mpox diagnosed between 1 June 2022 and 31 May 2023, through a combination of polymerase chain reaction result, diagnosis code, and/or tecovirimat receipt. We examined validated clinical diagnoses, laboratory results, vaccine data, and patient reported outcomes. We evaluated relative risks (RR) of mpox diagnosis, hospitalization, tecovirimat treatment, and vaccine receipt. Among 19 777 PWH in care, 413 mpox cases (all male sex at birth) occurred (2.2 cases/100 person-years). Age <40 years, geographic region, Hispanic/Latine ethnicity, lack of antiretroviral therapy, detectable HIV viral load, and recent bacterial sexually transmitted infection predicted mpox diagnosis. PWH with CD4 200-349 cells/mm3 were most likely to be hospitalized (adjusted RR, 3.20; 95% confidence interval: 1.44-7.09) compared to CD4 ≥500, but half as likely as those with CD4 <200 to receive tecovirimat. Overall, smallpox/mpox vaccine effectiveness of ≥1 vaccine was 71% (adjusted RR, 0.29; 95% confidence interval: .14-.47) at preventing mpox, and 86% or better with CD4 ≥350 or HIV viral suppression. Non-Hispanic Black PWH were less likely to be vaccinated than other racial/ethnic identities. PWH not on antiretroviral therapy or with unsuppressed HIV were more likely to be diagnosed with, and hospitalized for, mpox. Mpox/smallpox vaccine effectiveness was high, inclusive of those with low CD4 count and HIV viremia.

Predicting Teaching Effectiveness Based on Technology Integrated Language Learning

This research aimed to examine the correlation between English teachers’ acceptance of Instant Response Systems (IRSs) and their perceived teaching effectiveness. Employing a mixed-methods approach, 151 EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers participated in the study. An online survey was employed to collect data regarding teachers’ acceptance of IRSs and their perceived effectiveness in teaching. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 teachers to acquire nuanced insights into their perspectives on the effectiveness of integrating IRS tools into pedagogy. Findings revealed that predictors of teaching effectiveness included constructivist pedagogical beliefs, attitudes toward IRS implementation, perceived utility of IRSs, and facilitating conditions. The deployment of IRS-based tools demonstrated a positive impact on student motivation, engagement, and achievement. IRS-based tools were found to energize the class and provide information and feedback in a timely manner which enhanced the capacity of teachers to evaluate students’ learning progress.

Impact of Workforce Diversity on Organizational Effectiveness: Evidence from Nepalese Commercial Banks

Purpose: The primary purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between workforce diversity and overall effectiveness of Nepalese commercial banks, focusing on how diverse employee backgrounds contribute to organizational performance and operational success.Method: The descriptive and casual comparative research designs were used. The data were collected from 210 managerial level employeesof Nepalese commercial banks through structured questionnaires. The study applied purposive sampling technique to collect the data. Both descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used for data analysis. Data analysis was performed using Smart PLS 4.Results: The study reveals that ethnic diversity does not significantly influence organizational effectiveness. Conversely, gender and age diversity are significant predictors of organizational effectiveness. These results underscore the relevance of gender and age diversity in enhancing organizational performance in the Nepalese commercial banks.Conclusion: The research highlights the importance of fostering gender-balanced and age-diverse workforces for improving organizational effectiveness. By focusing on gender and age diversity, banks can better harness diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to improved outcomes. These findings suggest that workforce diversity is a major organizational strategy to enhance organizational effectiveness by fostering innovation, improving decision-making, increasing employee satisfaction, and enhancing customer services.

Machine learning-based discovery of UPP1 as a key oncogene in tumorigenesis and immune escape in gliomas.

Gliomas are the most common and aggressive type of primary brain tumor, with a poor prognosis despite current treatment approaches. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying glioma development and progression is critical for improving therapies and patient outcomes. The current study comprehensively analyzed large-scale single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing of glioma samples. By utilizing a series of advanced computational methods, this integrative approach identified the gene UPP1 (Uridine Phosphorylase 1) as a novel driver of glioma tumorigenesis and immune evasion. High levels of UPP1 were linked to poor survival rates in patients. Functional experiments demonstrated that UPP1 promotes tumor cell proliferation and invasion and suppresses anti-tumor immune responses. Moreover, UPP1 was found to be an effective predictor of mutation patterns, drug response, immunotherapy effectiveness, and immune characteristics. These findings highlight the power of combining diverse machine learning methods to identify valuable clinical markers involved in glioma pathogenesis. Identifying UPP1 as a tumor growth and immune escape driver may be a promising therapeutic target for this devastating disease.

The Efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Treatment for Depression: A Meta-Analysis and Meta-Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Background: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained attention for its potential effectiveness in treating depression beyond its initial use for PTSD. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of EMDR in treating depression and to identify the variables influencing its effectiveness. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across databases, including MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, covering studies up to January 2023. A total of 521 studies were screened, and 25 studies with 1042 participants (522 EMDR, 520 control) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The inclusion criteria involved randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing EMDR to control conditions such as usual care or waitlist groups, with outcomes focused on changes in depression symptoms. Results: The results show that EMDR had a significant effect on reducing depression symptoms (Hedges' g = 0.75), with moderate heterogeneity being observed. The meta-regression indicated that the severity of depression was a significant predictor of EMDR's effectiveness, with greater effects in severe cases. Additionally, the systematic review analyzed and evaluated various theoretical models and related studies that explain how EMDR works for the treatment of depression, reporting on neurobiological models proposed in previous research. Conclusions: This study confirms that EMDR is effective in treating depression, particularly in severe cases, and highlights its potential as a non-pharmacological intervention. However, this study highlights the need for more standardized research and long-term evaluations to assess EMDR's lasting impact. Integrating EMDR into multimodal treatment plans and primary care, especially for treatment-resistant depression, could significantly improve patient outcomes.

Efficacy, Safety and Acceptability of a Very-Low-Energy Diet in Adolescents with Obesity: A Fast Track to Health Sub-Study.

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy, safety and acceptability of a 4-week very-low-energy diet (VLED) program for adolescents with obesity. Adolescents (13-17 years) with obesity and ≥1 obesity-related complication were Fast Track to Health 52-week randomized controlled trial participants. Adolescents undertook a 4-week micronutrient-complete VLED (800 kcal/day), with weekly dietitian support. Anthropometric data were recorded at baseline and week-4 and side-effects at day 3-4, week-1, -2, -3 and -4. Adolescents completed an acceptability survey at week-4. A total of 134 adolescents (14.9 ± 1.2 years, 50% male) had a 5.5 ± 2.9 kg (p < 0.001) mean weight loss at week-4: 95% experienced ≥1 and 70% experienced ≥3 side-effects during the VLED program, especially during the first week. Hunger, fatigue, headache, irritability, loose stools, constipation and nausea were most common. Reporting more side-effects at day 3-4 correlated with greater weight loss at week-4 (r = -0.188, p = 0.03). Adolescents reported 'losing weight' (34%) and 'prescriptive structure' (28%) as the most positive aspects of VLED, while 'restrictive nature' (45%) and 'meal replacement taste' (20%) were least liked. A dietitian-monitored short-term VLED can be implemented safely and is acceptable for many adolescents seeking weight loss, despite frequent side-effects. Investigating predictors of acceptability and effectiveness could determine adolescents most suited to VLED programs.

Personality and leadership: Meta-analytic review of cross-cultural moderation, behavioral mediation, and honesty-humility.

We advance the trait approach to leadership by leveraging a large multinational database on leader emergence (k = 120 samples, N = 32,579) and leader effectiveness (k = 116, N = 42,487) to extend Judge et al.'s (2002) classic meta-analysis of Big Five personality and leadership. By testing novel hypotheses rooted in culturally endorsed implicit leadership theory and socioanalytic theory, we offer three unique insights. First, in collectivist societies (cultures that value interdependence with one's group), the five factor model traits-and leader Extraversion and Agreeableness in particular-are stronger predictors of leader effectiveness, consistent with the theorized need for enhanced social coordination in such cultures. Second, a theoretical model is proposed to specify that leader Big Five trait effects are mediated by leader behavior (confirming that Consideration mediates Extraversion and Agreeableness, whereas Initiating Structure mediates Conscientiousness, Extraversion, and Openness). Third, trait Honesty-Humility robustly predicts leader effectiveness beyond the Big Five traits, expanding the trait approach. New implications for understanding when and why personality traits predict leadership are discussed. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Long-term effects of alcohol-avoidance training: Do changes in approach bias predict who will remain abstinent?

Patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) tend to selectively approach alcohol cues in the environment, demonstrating an alcohol-approach bias. Alcohol-approach-bias modification (Alcohol-ApBM) effectively increases abstinence rates in patients with AUD when added to abstinence-focused treatment, but the evidence for its proposed working mechanism (reduction of the alcohol-approach bias) is limited. Moreover, not all patients benefit from Alcohol-ApBM, and previous research did not identify reliable pretreatment predictors of Alcohol-ApBM effectiveness. Therefore, the current study focused on learning processes during the Alcohol-ApBM training itself. Specifically, we examined whether changes in approach-avoidance tendencies over the course of Alcohol-ApBM would predict abstinence after inpatient treatment. The training data of 543 AUD patients in Germany (70% male, M = 47.96, SD = 9.08), receiving Alcohol-ApBM training during inpatient treatment, were used to examine whether various aspects of learning during training predicted abstinence 1 year after treatment discharge, both separately and in interaction with potential sociodemographic and clinical moderators of Alcohol-ApBM effectiveness. Overall, successful learning across six Alcohol-ApBM training sessions was observed; that is, the approach tendency toward alcoholic stimuli was reduced over time. However, none of the examined learning parameters were predictive of abstinence, neither separately nor in combination with clinical or sociodemographic variables. Previous studies have shown that Alcohol-ApBM is an effective add-on to abstinence-focused treatment for AUD, and this study showed that learning took place during Alcohol-ApBM training. However, specific learning parameters during training did not predict abstinence 1 year after treatment discharge. Therefore, we cannot specify which patients are most likely to benefit from ApBM with regard to abstinence after 1 year.

PROGNOSTIC VALUE OF BIOMARKERS IN PATIENTS WITH ISCHEMIC HEART FAILURE

Modern clinical recommendations of medical associations attach great importance to the improvement of methods of early diagnosis, prevention and individualized treatment of heart failure (HF). It is assumed that biological markers that reflect different pathophysiological stages of HF retain their value as a powerful tool for diagnosing acute and chronic HF, stratifying patients into high-risk groups for the occurrence and progression of the specified pathology, and as a probable predictor of treatment effectiveness. Along with this, the levels and prognostic value of serum biomarkers in patients with HF of different etiologies at different stages of treatment remain unclear.The purpose. To study the prognostic value of biomarkers in patients with HF of ischemic origin.Material and methods. 398 were examined with HF aged 45-65 years (54.3±7.2 years. All 398 patients with HF were divided into two groups. The 1st group included 219 (55%) patients who did not have re-hospitalization (RG) due to HF decompensation during the year of observation. The II group consisted of 179 (45%) patients with PG. 226 (56.8%) patients had a permanent form of atrial fibrillation (AF), 102 (25.6%) had type 2 diabetes. Among the examined - 198 (49,7%) women and 200 (50,2%) men. A standardized echocardiographic study was performed to determine the left ventricular ejection fraction (LV EF) and LV dimensions during hospitalization. The levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone, free T3, free T4, blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, galectin-3, ST-2, BNP, NT-proBNP were determined. The ratios: ST-2 / Galectin-3 (UO), NT-proBNP / BNP (UO), NT-proBNP / ST-2 (UO) and NT-proBNP / Galectin-3 (UO) were calculated. During 1 year, patients were observed, taking into account the presence of repeated hospitalization (RG) due to HF decompensation, mortality. Patients were divided into two groups. The 1st group included 219 (55%) of patients who did not have re-hospitalization (PG) due to HF decompensation. II group - 179 (45%) patients with PG.Results. Compared to patients with a favorable short-term course of the disease, patients with HF of ischemic genesis, who had PG during the year of observation, have HF III and IV PK according to NYHA, diabetes mellitus, and a permanent form of AF more often; higher heart rate, serum levels of galectin-3 (by 11.1%), NT-proBNP (by 31.8%), higher values of NT-proBNP / BNP (by 40.6%) and NT-proBNP / ST- 2 (by 21.1%), but a smaller value of the ST-2 / Galectin-3 ratio (by 9.3%), as well as a higher risk of death during the first year (OR = 3.81). The risk of PG increases when the level of NT-proBNP &gt; 652.6 pg/ml is reached and the ratios: ST-2/Galectin-3 ≤ 17.95 IU, NT-proBNP / BNP &gt; 10.17 IU and NT-proBNP / ST-2 &gt; 13.79 UO. The level of ST-2 &gt; 41.37 ng/ml is prognostically significant for the one-year death of patients within a year.Conclusions. In patients with HF of ischemic genesis, the ratio of NT-proBNP / BNP has a greater prognostic significance regarding the risk of re-hospitalization, compared to NT-proBNP and NT-proBNP / ST-2.

Non-invasive Assessment of Microstructural Changes After CyberKnife Radiosurgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia Using Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Background and Aims: Given the absence of a universally accepted non-invasive and objective clinical tool to predict a patient’s response to stereotactic radiosurgery for Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN), this research endeavoured to appraise the potential of Diffusion Tensor Imaging as a predictive tool in managing TN. Objective: This study aimed to assess microstructural changes in the trigeminal nerve following CyberKnife radiosurgery (CKRS) for TN using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and to correlate these changes with clinical outcomes. Methods: Twenty-eight TN patients treated with CKRS underwent pre and 4-month post-treatment Three-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging scans with DTI metrics, including fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivity (AD), radial diffusivity (RD) and mean diffusivity (MD), were collected. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Barrow Neurological Institute Pain Intensity Score (BNI-PIS) at fourth, sixth and ninth months post-CKRS. Results: Twenty-four patients reported good pain relief (responders), while four patients did not experience adequate relief (non-responders). Responders exhibited significantly lower FA (mean drop of 13.8%, P &lt; .001) and lower RA (mean drop of 16.1%, P &lt; .001) compared to non-responders. RD, AD and MD remained constant across the study cohort. Conclusion: DTI metrics, particularly FA and RA, at 4 months post-CKRS, emerged as predictors of long-term treatment effectiveness for TN. These findings suggest the potential utility of DTI in evaluating microstructural changes in the trigeminal nerve post-CKRS and predicting clinical outcomes.

Toward a theory of team resource mobilization: A systematic review and model of sustained agile team effectiveness

The notion of resources is central to many theories in HRM and applied psychology. Prominent resource-based theories in HRM tend to focus on issues related to accessing resources at the firm-level (e.g., resource-based view of the firm) or the employee-level (e.g., job demands - resources theory). However, at the team-level, the critical issue is often a matter of resource mobilization rather than resource access. Previous research has discovered that a team's ability to use resources effectively is indicative of collective intelligence. Instead of explaining this ability with a latent collective intelligence factor, we argue that teams can develop this ability by using agile work practices (AWPs). Through a systematic review of the agile team literature, we describe how agile teams mobilize resources embedded in the internal and external environment to achieve sustained team effectiveness. Generalizing beyond the agile team context, we propose a model that introduces team-internal and team-external resource mobilization as unique predictors of sustained team effectiveness. We further propose that resource mobilization is strengthened by challenge demands (e.g., work complexity) and weakened by hindrance demands (e.g., role conflict). We hope our model of sustained team effectiveness inspires future research into how teams can perform effectively across multiple episodes, without this going at the cost of members' health and well-being.

Uncovering the factors underlying collaboration outcomes in interprofessional education: A preliminary investigation involving healthcare students

BackgroundInterprofessional education (IPE) incorporates healthcare students from various disciplines to learn with, about, and from one another, aiming to foster effective collaboration. However, the factors that promote these collaboration outcomes remain elusive. Recognizing this knowledge gap, this study utilizes self-determination theory applied in a ten-day IPE programme. The study aims are twofold: to clarify the potential influence of personal factors (autonomy, competence, and relatedness) and environmental factors (clear goals and technology support) on collaboration outcomes (team goal achievement and team effectiveness) and to examine the effect of the IPE on these outcomes. MethodologyThe study utilized an IPE programme that integrated asynchronous and synchronous learning methods across two institutions in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. This involved 147 students from diverse healthcare disciplines who were enrolled in the IPE programme. A pre- and post-test design was employed to examine programme effects. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to explore the factors influencing these outcomes, while paired samples t-tests were used to evaluate the effect of the IPE programme on collaboration outcomes. ResultsAmong the personal factors, a sense of relatedness emerged as an important predictor of team effectiveness and goal achievement. Clear goals and technology support positively influenced collaboration outcomes. A paired samples t-test indicated significant improvements in collaboration outcomes after the IPE simulation. ConclusionThese findings highlight the importance of designing a large IPE programme that meets basic psychological needs (especially the sense of relatedness) and provides clear goals and adequate technology support in the IPE context. This study is helpful to understand how personal and environmental factors promote the collaboration outcomes in medical education and provide insights for future IPE curriculum development.

Predictors of the immunochemotherapy effectiveness of atezolizumab in combination with etoposide and carboplatin in patients with advanced small cell lung cancer

Predictors of the immunochemotherapy effectiveness of atezolizumab in combination with etoposide and carboplatin in patients with advanced small cell lung cancer

Novel physiologic predictors of positive airway pressure effectiveness (NICEPAP) study: rationale, design and methods.

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the primary therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); however the effectiveness of CPAP remains suboptimal. We describe the Novel PhysIologiC prEdictors of Positive Airway Pressure Effectiveness (NICEPAP) study. Its purpose is to determine whether physiological traits of OSA contribute to CPAP effectiveness. NICEPAP (NCT05067088) is a prospective, observational cohort study conducted at an academic sleep center. Adults newly diagnosed with OSA (n = 267) are assessed for OSA traits of loop gain, arousal threshold, pharyngeal collapsibility, and muscle compensation from baseline polysomnography. We perform a comprehensive assessment of covariates relevant to CPAP adherence, efficacy, and patient-centered outcomes. Participants are followed for 12 months. Primary outcomes include (1) CPAP adherence (hours/night), (2) CPAP efficacy (apneas-hypopneas/hour), and (3) quality of life at six months measured by objective CPAP data and Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes include sleep quality, sleepiness, insomnia, and neurocognitive function. Data on covariates, including demographics, sleep symptoms, medical history, medications, sleep quality, OSA and treatment self-efficacy, decisional balance, and socio-economic and social and partner support, are collected using validated instruments. The analysis for primary outcomes includes a generalized linear mixed model for an outcome (e.g., CPAP adherence) with OSA traits as exposures followed by the addition of relevant covariates. The findings of the NICEPAP study will inform research aimed to enhance CPAP effectiveness. Understanding the role of physiological OSA traits in CPAP effectiveness is a crucial step toward a precision medicine approach to OSA.