Value Of Further Research Research Articles

Detection and Coil Embolisation of Pelvic Vein Incompetence for Chronic Pain in the Female Pelvis: A Development Phase Economic Analysis

Unexplained chronic pain in the female pelvis (CPFP) affects 7% of people indicating female sex in the UK. Evidence suggests that pelvic venous incompetence (PVI) could explain CPFP and that coil embolisation could provide relief. The aims of this study were to indicate (1) the cost effectiveness of detecting and treating PVI in people experiencing unexplained CPFP, and (2) the maximum value of further research, suggesting suitable areas. A decision tree compared standard care (regular prescribed analgesia) with an intervention comprising transvaginal duplex ultrasound to screen for PVI, venography to confirm the diagnosis, and coil embolisation treatment. The population was people experiencing unexplained CPFP. A UK National Health Service perspective and 2021 - 22 price year were used. Ten years of health costs and health related quality of life (HRQoL) effects for eligible 40 year olds were simulated. Evidence reviews informed diagnostic accuracy, health service usage, and unit costs. A single centre randomised controlled trial informed all other parameters. Probabilistic analysis incorporated parameter uncertainty in cost effectiveness estimates. Deterministic sensitivity analysis indicated drivers of uncertainty. Value of information methods measured the value of eliminating all relevant uncertainties, given uptake predictions. The main outcome measures were incremental cost and quality adjusted life years (QALYs) for the intervention compared with analgesia, the incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER), and expected value of perfect information. The mean ICER for the intervention was £4 558/QALY gained, and the probability that the ICER was within the UK cost effectiveness threshold (£20 000/QALY gained) was 90%. The expected value of perfect information about all model parameters was £46 M. All deterministic sensitivity analysis scenarios met the threshold, except the smallest plausible HRQoL effect of (resolving) CPFP. Detecting and treating PVI causing CPFP appears cost effective, but more primary research would be valuable to reduce decision uncertainty. Uncertainty in the HRQoL estimate for unexplained CPFP appeared to contribute most to decision uncertainty.

Between Contestation and Support: Explaining Elites’ Confidence in the International Criminal Court

Abstract The International Criminal Court (ICC) has come under challenge in recent years as some countries have decided, or considered, to withdraw from it. Against this backdrop, an emerging literature has begun to examine attitudes toward the court among the general public as a key court constituency. However, little is known about how domestic elites perceive the court. This research gap is particularly surprising given that domestic elites have a considerable impact on both public and state support of the court. This article explains why political and societal elites across world regions have confidence or lack confidence in the ICC. We present the results from a unique survey of 722 elite respondents conducted from 2017 to 2019 across six countries: Brazil, Germany, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa, and the United States. We furthermore enrich our analysis by using public opinion data to draw comparisons between elites and the general public. The analyses reveal that the views of elites are most consistently related to their perceptions of other, more well-known international organizations and their country’s relationship with the ICC. Our findings indicate both similarities and differences between how elite and public opinion about the ICC are formed, demonstrating the value of further research on elite opinion on international courts.

The current state of integrating equity, diversity and inclusion into knowledge mobilization: a systematic literature review

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to systematically review and analyze the academic literature on integrating equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) into knowledge mobilization (KMb).Design/methodology/approachThis systematic literature review of the body of scholarly literature published on integrating EDI with KMb follows established methods and protocols proposed by Popay et al. (2006) and Page et al. (2021). Using a relevant keyword string, a search was conducted in ProQuest and SCOPUS to find peer-reviewed articles, which were then screened using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Finally, inductive and deductive analyses were conducted on the selected articles.FindingsThe findings suggest that most of the authors are based in the Global North, the majority of literature was published in the last two years, and that it is conceptual. This synthesis highlights five solution-oriented themes: acknowledging inherent bias, centering marginalized groups, promoting responsible knowledge mobilization, establishing partnerships, and advocating for transformational and systemic change. This study also identifies four broad barriers: inherent, unconscious, and implicit biases, a lack of evidence-based best practices, siloing of research and information, and a lack of institutional support and resources. Findings also highlight the value of further research into barriers, gaps and opportunities.Originality/valueBy studying the intersection of EDI and KMb, this contemporary synthesis of the state of the field presents opportunities for future research into gaps, barriers and potential solutions.

Use of artificial intelligence methods in designing thermal energy storage tanks: A bibliometric analysis

This bibliometric study examines the use of artificial intelligence (AI) methods, such as machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), in the design of thermal energy storage (TES) tanks. TES tanks are essential parts of energy storage systems, and improving their design has a big impact on how effectively and sustainably energy is used. With the increasing availability and advancements in AI techniques, researchers explored their application within the field of TES tank design to address challenges related to structural analysis, material selection, and optimization. However, a comprehensive analysis of the current state of research, trends, and potential areas for improvement is lacking. This study aims to bridge this gap by analysing scientific papers, patents, and publications in conference proceedings from the Scopus database to identify trends, research gaps, and areas of importance in this domain. The novelty of this study lies in its focused examination of AI methods specifically applied to TES tank design, providing a unique perspective on the intersection of these two important fields. By conducting a thorough bibliometric analysis, this study offers original insights into the current landscape and future directions of AI-enabled TES tank design research. The methodology involves a systematic search query and the use of VOSviewer software for keyword analysis. The results indicate a notable increase in publications during recent years (2020-August 2023), aligning with the growing focus on sustainable energy solutions. The most frequent keywords, such as TES, genetic algorithm (GA), and phase change material (PCM), suggest a focus on improving optimization of TES tanks with AI, while the least common keywords highlight specific areas with limited work and opportunities for future studies. In conclusion, this bibliometric analysis underscores the potential of AI to enhance the design and performance of TES tanks, emphasizes the value of further research in this area, and identifies opportunities for future advancements in AI-enabled TES tank design to contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability efforts.

An Evaluation of Annual Goals for Rural Students Who Are Receiving Special Education Services: A Comparison of Disability Categories

In this article, we describe the exploration of the content and quality of annual goals included in the Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) of students with disabilities in one rural U.S. school district. We utilized content analysis to understand the district’s service delivery model comprehensively. Findings revealed disparities between inclusive placements and special education service delivery, suggesting that, despite high rates of inclusive placements noted on IEPs, most services occurred outside general education classrooms, especially for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We evaluated the quality and rigor of 546 annual goals using a rubric adapted from Kurth et al. Only 37.7% of goals were rated as rigorous, highlighting a need for clearer, more specific, and applicable goals. Notably, communication goals for students with IDD were largely absent, raising concerns about support for meaningful participation in general education settings. In addition, special factors related to communication and assistive technology were not consistently addressed in IEPs. We discuss implications for improving educational experiences for students who qualify for special education services under IDD in rural schools and highlight the value of further research and actions in this area.

"I Was Almost in Disbelief" - Qualitative Analysis of Experiences and Expectations Among Psoriasis Patients Undergoing Biologic Treatment with Secukinumab.

Psoriasis is a highly debilitating chronic inflammatory disease. Increased understanding of its pathophysiology has enabled development of targeted treatments such as biologics. Several medical treatments have been shown to be influenced by patients' experiences and expectations. However, only little is known about patients' experiences with and expectations towards biologics. Our objectives were to identify patients' treatment experiences and treatment expectations and assess their trajectories over the course of treatment with the IL-17A inhibitor secukinumab. Moreover, we aimed to document effects of psoriasis, factors that influence symptomatology, and prior treatment experiences. We conducted semi-structured interviews with n = 24 patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and employed a qualitative content analysis to derive thematic and evaluative codes. Findings were validated via peer debriefings with experienced dermatologists. Patients reported burdensome physical and psychological psoriasis symptoms and identified factors that can improve or worsen symptomatology, including stress and self-efficacy. Prior treatment experiences were mostly negative. Past barriers to effective treatment included time constraints or limited access. Concerning secukinumab, patients initially expected complete to partial remission of symptoms and occurrence or absence of side effects. Closer inspection of expectations and experiences revealed three trajectories. For most patients, initial expectations were met and future expectations remained unchanged. For the other patients, however, the experience did not match their initial expectation. One group then adapted their future expectations according to their experience, while the other group did not. To our knowledge, this is the first qualitative study to assess expectations towards treatment effectiveness and side effects, their trajectories, and interplay with experiences among psoriasis patients. Our findings highlight the value of further research on the subject in order to optimize care for psoriasis patients and to learn more about the trajectories and influence of treatment expectations in general.

It Takes 2 to Tango. Setting Out the Conditions in Which Performance-Based Risk-Sharing Arrangements Work for Both Parties

ObjectivesFaster regulatory approval processes often fail to achieve faster patient access. We seek an approach, using performance-based risk-sharing arrangements, to address uncertainty for payers regarding the relative effectiveness and value for money of products launched through accelerated approval schemes.One important reason for risk sharing is to resolve differences of opinion between innovators and payers about a technology’s underlying value. To date, there has been no formal attempt to set out the circumstances in which risk sharing can address these differences. MethodsWe use a value of information framework to understand what a performance-based risk-sharing arrangements can, in principle, add to a reimbursement scheme, separating payer perspectives on cost-effectiveness and the value of research from those of the innovator. We find 16 scenarios, developing 5 rules to analyze these 16 scenarios, identifying cases in which risk sharing adds value for both parties. ResultsWe find that risk sharing provides an improved solution in 9 out of 16 combinations of payer and innovator expectations about treatment outcome and the value of further research. Among our assumptions, who pays for research and scheme administration costs are key. ConclusionsSteps should be undertaken to make risk sharing more practical, ensuring that payers consider it an option. This requires additional costs to the health system falling on the innovator in an efficient way that aligns incentives for product development for global markets. Health systems benefits are earlier patient access to cost-effective treatments and payers with higher confidence of not wasting money. Innovators get greater returns while conducting research.

Associations Between Social–Emotional Teaching Practices and Reductions in Preschoolers' Challenging Behavior

It is widely assumed that (1) children with challenging behavior may lack the social–emotional skills to be successful in classroom settings and (2) instruction in social–emotional skills can help prevent the occurrence of young children's challenging behavior. However, no data are available to indicate whether specific social–emotional skills might be most effective in reducing existing challenging behavior. In this study, we used an archival database to examine possible relationships between types of social–emotional instruction and changes over a 4-month period in levels of social skills and challenging behavior. The database, from a randomized trial of an intervention for preschoolers' challenging behavior, included measures of types of social–emotional instruction and children's social skills and challenging behaviors. Correlational analyses revealed statistically significant relationships between two types of social–emotional teaching practices and reductions in preschoolers' challenging behavior for children in the intervention group, teaching children behavior expectations and teaching problem-solving. No other statistically significant associations were identified. The results are discussed in relation to possible implications for social–emotional instruction for preschool children already exhibiting challenging behavior and the value of further research focused on preventing challenging behavior in young children.

Identification and verification of anoikis-related gene markers to predict the prognosis of patients with bladder cancer and assist in the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer.

The recurrence and mortality rates of bladder cancer are extremely high, and its diagnosis and treatment are global concerns. The mechanism of anoikis is closely related to tumor metastasis. First, we obtained all the data needed for this study from a public database through a formal operational process. The data were then analyzed by bioinformatics technology. Through the limma package, we screened and obtained 313 anoikis-related genes [false discovery rate (FDR) <0.05, |log fold change (FC) | >0.585]. Then, through univariate independent prognostic analysis, we further screened 146 genes (P<0.05) related to the prognosis of bladder cancer from 313 differential genes. These 146 prognostically relevant differential genes were used for least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression for further screening to obtain model-related genes and output model formulas. Through the nomogram, we can calculate the survival rate of patients more accurately. The accuracy of the nomogram was also confirmed by calibration curves, independent prognostic analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA) curves. We then analysed the sensitivity of immunotherapy in bladder cancer patients with different risk scores via Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE). Through bioinformatics technology and public databases, a prognostic model including 9 anoikis-related genes (KLF12, INHBB, CASP6, TGFBR3, FASN, TPM1, OGT, RAC3, ID4) was obtained. Integrating risk scores with clinical information, we obtained a nomogram that can accurately predict patient survival. By querying the immunohistochemical results of the Human Protein Atlas database, two of the nine model-related genes (FASN, RAC3) have the value of further research and are expected to become new biomarkers to assist the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer. Through immune-related analysis, we found that patients in the low-risk group appeared to be more suitable for immunotherapy, while drug sensitivity analysis showed that bladder cancer patients in the high-risk group were more sensitive to common chemotherapy drugs. In this study, a prognostic model that can accurately predict the prognosis of patients with bladder cancer was constructed. FASN and RAC3 are expected to become a new biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer.

Screening and mechanism of six angiotensin I-converting eneyme inhibitory peptides from protein hydrolysate of Coregonus peled visceral: A combined in computer and in vitro study

Coregonus peled visceral can be regarded as a rich source of bioactive peptides. The purpose of this study is to screen peptides with high angiotensin I-converting eneyme (ACE) inhibitory activity from protein hydrolysate of Coregonus peled visceral prepared by trypsin, and analyze the inhibitory mechanisms of prepared peptides. The results showed that the UF-4 (MW < 3 kDa) had the highest ACE inhibitory activity of 73.55% (2 mg/ml). UF-4 was separated by Sephadex G-25 column and collected three fractions (F1, F2 and F3), and 397 peptides were detected from F1 fraction, and 6 peptides were screened by silico methods as potential antihypertensive peptides. FPGAKP formed 9 hydrogen bond interactions with Ala354, Tyr523, Glu384 in S1 pocket; His353 in S2 pocket; 5 hydrogen bond interactions with Thr282, Ala356, Arg522, Arg522, and His387 near the active sites. FPGAKP has the highest ACE inhibitory activity (IC50 = 0.039 mg/ml) and exhibits competitive inhibition. The total content of β-sheet and α-helix in the secondary structure of FPGAKP was the highest (80.22%). Studies have shown that the ACE inhibitory activity of the peptide mainly depends on the number of hydrogen bonds formed with the key active site of ACE and the content of β-sheet and α-helix. The results indicated that FPGAKP has the value of further research as a substitute for antihypertensive drugs.

Feasibility and acceptability of a new web-based cognitive training platform for cognitively healthy older adults: the breakfast task

BackgroundDeveloping efficient cognitive training for the older population is a major public health goal due to its potential cognitive benefits. A promising training target is executive control, critical for multitasking in everyday life. The aim of this pilot study was to establish the feasibility and acceptability of the Breakfast Task training in older adults, a new web-based cognitive training platform that simulates real-life multitasking demands.MethodsA community-based sample of 24 cognitively healthy participants aged between 60 and 75 (M = 69.12, SD = 3.83) underwent 5-session cognitive training protocol, delivered online. Each session lasted 45 min and occurred twice a week at participant’s homes. Performance was recorded, and participants completed questionnaires at baseline and after the intervention.ResultsFeasibility metrics showed overall high recruitment (82.7%), adherence and retention rates (100%). Acceptability was considered good based on participant’s quantitative and qualitative responses. On average, participants rated the game as interesting, enjoyable and did not report difficulties in accessing the game online without supervision or in understanding the instructions. Participants showed a learning curve across sessions, suggesting improvement in the game outcomes and potential benefits from the emphasis change training approach. The study identified relevant areas that need improvements and adjustments, such as technical issues, session’s structure, and dose.ConclusionsThe findings provide preliminary support for the feasibility and acceptability of the web-based Breakfast Task training platform in cognitively healthy older adults. Results suggest the value of further research to investigate the Breakfast Task training features and dose-response relationship, as well as its potential efficacy in older adults via larger randomized controlled trials.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04195230 (Registered 11 December 2019).

Transcendental Meditation practitioners show reduced expression of the Conserved Transcriptional Response to Adversity

Background and objectivesA recent exploratory study of transcriptional effects of long-term practice of Transcendental Meditation (TM) technologies found evidence for altered expression of genes associated with health and disease. In the present secondary analysis of those data, we test the more specific hypothesis that this sample of long-term practitioners shows a significant reduction in markers of the “Conserved Transcriptional Response to Adversity” (CTRA), an RNA profile characterized by up-regulated inflammation and down-regulated Type I interferon (IFN) activity. Materials and methodsData come from a previously published study providing genome-wide transcriptional profiles of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy, 38-year practitioners of TM technologies and matched controls (n = 12, mean age 65). The current analysis specifically tests for differential expression of a previously established CTRA indicator gene score, with cross-validation by promoter-based bioinformatic analysis of CTRA-typical differences in transcription factor activity and monocyte subset cellular origins. ResultsCompared to controls, the TM group showed lower expression of a pre-specified set of CTRA indicator genes. These effects were accompanied by genome-wide indications of down-regulated pro-inflammatory transcription factor activity (NF-κB, AP-1), up-regulated activity of Interferon Response Factors (IRF) and reduced transcriptional activity of classical monocytes. Conclusions: A sample of long-term practitioners of TM showed reduced CTRA gene expression in PBMC compared to matched controls, supporting the likely value of further research to evaluate causality and specificity of this potential mechanism of health benefits in meditators.

Decision curve analysis: confidence intervals and hypothesis testing for net benefit

BackgroundA number of recent papers have proposed methods to calculate confidence intervals and p values for net benefit used in decision curve analysis. These papers are sparse on the rationale for doing so. We aim to assess the relation between sampling variability, inference, and decision-analytic concepts.Methods and resultsWe review the underlying theory of decision analysis. When we are forced into a decision, we should choose the option with the highest expected utility, irrespective of p values or uncertainty. This is in some distinction to traditional hypothesis testing, where a decision such as whether to reject a given hypothesis can be postponed. Application of inference for net benefit would generally be harmful. In particular, insisting that differences in net benefit be statistically significant would dramatically change the criteria by which we consider a prediction model to be of value. We argue instead that uncertainty related to sampling variation for net benefit should be thought of in terms of the value of further research. Decision analysis tells us which decision to make for now, but we may also want to know how much confidence we should have in that decision. If we are insufficiently confident that we are right, further research is warranted.ConclusionNull hypothesis testing or simple consideration of confidence intervals are of questionable value for decision curve analysis, and methods such as value of information analysis or approaches to assess the probability of benefit should be considered instead.

Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitor for Pediatric Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Cost-Utility Analysis

ObjectivesDespite the growing evidence of efficacy, scarce information exists regarding the cost of tadalafil to improve the functional classes of pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. This study aims to determine the cost-utility of tadalafil compared sildenafil to treat pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension in Colombia. MethodsA Markov model was developed to compare expected costs, outcomes, and quality-adjusted life-years of sildenafil and tadalafil in pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. The model was analyzed probabilistically, and a value of information analysis was conducted to inform the value of conducting further research to reduce current uncertainties in the evidence base. Cost-effectiveness was evaluated at a willingness-to-pay value of US $5180. ResultsThe mean incremental cost of tadalafil versus sildenafil is US $15 270. The 95% credible interval for the incremental cost ranges from US $28 033.65 to US $5940.86. The mean incremental benefit of tadalafil versus sildenafil is 1.00 quality-adjusted life-years (QALY). The 95% credible interval for the incremental benefit ranges from 1.88 to 0.31 QALY. The expected incremental cost per QALY is estimated at US $15 286. There is a probability less than 1% that tadalafil is more cost-effective than sildenafil at a threshold of US $5180 per QALY. Form the value of information analysis, the theoretical upper bound on the value of further research was US $9.298 for Colombia. ConclusionOur economic evaluation shows that tadalafil is not cost-effective regarding sildenafil to treat pediatric patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension in Colombia. Our study provides evidence that should be used by decision-makers to improve clinical practice guidelines.

User preferences, driving context or manoeuvre characteristics? Exploring parameters affecting the acceptability of automated overtaking

Future user acceptance will be a requirement for the AVs to accomplish their estimated safety benefits, highlighting the importance of acceptable driving behaviour. This study aims to investigate the parameters that affect the acceptability of highly automated overtaking. 237 respondents participated in a video based online survey, rating different motorway flying overtaking scenarios based on their preferences. The scores were analysed using a variety of methods (statistical tests, Principal Component Analysis, Linear Mixed Models). Long pull-out distances and manoeuvre duration values, as well as lower speeds were preferred by the participants, with some limited impact of the driving situation. Overall, behaviour simulating an average, cautious human driver is likely to positively influence acceptability and suggests the value of further research on context-adaptive automated driving to account for subjective risk perception. These findings can contribute towards user-centred systems that assist or autonomously perform overtaking manoeuvres, supporting their uptake and thus the realisation of their safety benefits.

FEASIBILITY AND ACCEPTABILITY OF A WEB-BASED COGNITIVE TRAINING PLATFORM FOR OLDER ADULTS: THE BREAKFAST TASK

Abstract Background Developing efficient cognitive training for the older population is a major public health goal due to its potential cognitive benefits. A promising cognitive training target is executive control, critical for multitasking in everyday life. The aim of this pilot study was to establish the feasibility and acceptability of the Breakfast Task in older adults, a new web-based cognitive training platform that simulates real-life multitasking demands. Research Design and Methods A community-based sample of 24 cognitively healthy participants aged between 60 and 75 (M = 69.12, SD = 3.83) underwent an online 5-session training protocol. Each session lasted 40 minutes and occurred twice a week at participant’s homes. Game performance was recorded, and participants completed questionnaires at baseline and after the intervention. Results Feasibility metrics showed overall high recruitment (82.7%), adherence and retention rates (100%). Acceptability was considered good based on participant`s quantitative and qualitative responses. On average, participants rated the game as interesting, enjoyable and did not report difficulties in accessing the game online or in understanding the instructions. Moreover, participants showed a learning curve across sessions, improvement in most game outcomes and benefits from the emphasis change approach. Discussion and Implications: The findings provide preliminary support for the feasibility and acceptability of the Breakfast Task training platform with community-dwelling older adults and demonstrate potential cognitive benefits. Results suggest the value of further research investigating the Breakfast Task features and dose-response relationship, as well as its efficacy in older adults via larger randomized controlled trials.

Meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of acupoint catgut embedding in the treatment of ulcerative colitis: Acupoint catgut embedding treating ulcerative colitis meta-analysis.

Although anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory measures have delayed the progression of ulcerative colitis (UC) to a certain extent, the adverse drug reactions and recurrence after recovery still trouble clinicians. Acupoint catgut embedding is a possible alternative strategy for the treatment of UC, but its clinical efficacy remains controversial. Therefore, this study systematically evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of acupoint catgut embedding compared with conventional western medicine in the treatment of UC. VIP, Wanfang, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library databases were searched. And the publication time of the literature was limited from the time that the database was established to February 2022. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias as required. Meta-analysis was performed with Revman 5.3. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed with TSA 0.9.5.10 Beta. Publication bias was assessed by Stata 15.0. And evidence quality was appraised with GRADEpro3.6. A total of 10 studies were listed, with a total sample size of 782 cases. Meta-analysis showed that compared with conventional western medicine, acupoint catgut embedding can effectively improve the total effective rate of clinical symptoms (relative risk [RR] = 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.09,1.24], P < .00001), endoscopic total effective rate (RR = 1.16, 95%CI = [1.08,1.25], P < .0001), clinical symptom cure rate (RR = 1.80, 95%CI = [1.37,2.38], P < .0001), and endoscopic cure rate (RR = 1.97, 95%CI = [1.36,2.86], P = .0004) of UC, but the adverse event rate (RR = 0.20, 95%CI = [0.01,4.00], P = .29) was similar. Trial sequential analysis indicated that the efficacy endpoint was conclusive. Harbord test confirmed no significant publication bias. The quality of evidence for these outcomes ranges from low to medium. The clinical efficacy of acupoint catgut embedding in the treatment of UC is superior to that of conventional western medicine, and the safety may be equivalent to that of conventional western medicine, which has the value of further research and exploration.

Understanding the social norms of cooling in Chinese offices: Predominance, professionalism, and peer respect

Challenging the international spread of highly energy-consuming air-conditioning technologies, this research explores how cooling demand is supported by the local emergence of relevant social norms. This paper presents the results of an interview study focused on the cooling norms currently found inside corporate offices in two large cities in southern China. Building on existing, mostly quantitative, studies of office cooling in areas of China with hot summers, and with a focus on how social norms shape everyday actions, the accounts of 17 financial sector workers are examined through a thematic analysis. Three themes are discussed: how air conditioning was perceived to dominate, how expectations concerning professional self-image were negotiated, and how respect for colleagues at different levels influenced personal cooling in the workplace. Together they point to the potential of novel strategies for promoting more sustainable office cooling in China and suggest the value of further research on dynamic cooling norms.

Cost-effectiveness of adalimumab for early-stage Dupuytren's disease : an economic evaluation based on a randomized controlled trial and individual-patient simulation model.

To estimate the potential cost-effectiveness of adalimumab compared with standard care alone for the treatment of early-stage Dupuytren's disease (DD) and the value of further research from an NHS perspective. We used data from the Repurposing anti-TNF for Dupuytren's disease (RIDD) randomized controlled trial of intranodular adalimumab injections in patients with early-stage progressive DD. RIDD found that intranodular adalimumab injections reduced nodule hardness and size in patients with early-stage DD, indicating the potential to control disease progression. A within-trial cost-utility analysis compared four adalimumab injections with no further treatment against standard care alone, taking a 12-month time horizon and using prospective data on EuroQol five-dimension five-level questionnaire (EQ-5D-5L) and resource use from the RIDD trial. We also developed a patient-level simulation model similar to a Markov model to extrapolate trial outcomes over a lifetime using data from the RIDD trial and a literature review. This also evaluated repeated courses of adalimumab each time the nodule reactivated (every three years) in patients who initially responded. The within-trial economic evaluation found that adalimumab plus standard care cost £503,410 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained versus standard care alone over a 12-month time horizon. The model-based extrapolation suggested that, over a lifetime, repeated courses of adalimumab could cost £14,593 (95% confidence interval £7,534 to £42,698) per QALY gained versus standard care alone. If the NHS was willing to pay £20,000/QALY gained, there is a 77% probability that adalimumab with retreatment is the best value for money. Repeated courses of adalimumab are likely to be a cost-effective treatment for progressive early-stage DD. The value of perfect parameter information that would eliminate all uncertainty around the parameters estimated in RIDD and the duration of quiescence was estimated to be £105 per patient or £272 million for all 2,584,411 prevalent cases in the UK. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open2022;3(11):898-906.

Social Affect Regulation in University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Given how much time humans spend in social contexts, interest has been growing in socially mediated forms of affect regulation. Historically, though, research on affect regulation has focused on individual forms of regulation, such as cognitive reappraisal. To address this gap, we investigated social affect regulation in university students through an online survey, with a particular focus on social reappraisal. Specifically, we tested whether the frequency with which students communicate with their social contacts is related to how much social reappraisal support they receive from those contacts, and whether social reappraisal support is associated with mental health. Our final sample consisted of 152 undergraduates from across North America who reported on a total of 1,124 social contacts. We consistently found that communication frequency was positively associated with perceived social reappraisal support across several modalities of communication (e.g., text-based, video-based, in-person). However, we observed no associations between levels of social reappraisal support and measures of mental health. This research was part of a preregistered project on social affect regulation in university students in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic (https://osf.io/q7bvw/). Thus, we present findings in relation to this context. These findings underscore that social forms of affect regulation play a significant role in university students’ lives, emphasizing the value of further research into their mechanisms and effects.