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Quality assurance framework for biosciences education in nursing (B-QAF). Learning outcomes for biosciences in pre-registration nursing programmes
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Efficient 6 GHz Wi-Fi based occupancy detection: channel model-informed feature engineering and random forest optimization
No full textThis paper investigates the use of the newly opened, and relatively unexplored, 6 GHz band for office occupancy detection using Wi-Fi sensing. To deliver accurate and efficient occupancy detection, we develop a novel channel model-informed feature engineering method combined with a random forest optimization strategy. Specifically, physically interpretable channel state information (CSI) amplitude-based features, such as the Rician K-factor and channel coherence time, are employed to capture channel variations induced by human presence and movement. A dual sliding window approach is introduced to effectively extract temporally relevant channel parameters, significantly improving computational efficiency and classification accuracy. Experimental validation conducted in a realistic office environment demonstrates that the proposed method achieves an average occupancy classification accuracy of 98.28%, outperforming existing methods while substantially reducing computational complexity. These findings suggest that integrating this Wi-Fi sensing approach into next-generation networks (e.g., IEEE 802.11bf) can enhance real-time responsiveness and reliability in smart building applications such as security and energy management
Visual weighting by autistic adults in multisensory integration across balance and speech perception: a systematic review
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A narrative review of cancer-related loneliness in those living with and beyond cancer, and their close persons
No full textCancer-related loneliness is a feeling of social disconnection caused by a diagnosis of cancer, and it is associated with individuals’ cancer-related social expectations. It is conceptually distinct when compared with loneliness in a general population due to the unique challenges of cancer. Cancer-related loneliness also impacts close persons including caregivers and dependent youth, with both these populations reporting experiences of loneliness. Given that loneliness is related to a range of harmful psychological and physical outcomes, and there is a paucity of interventions to address cancer-related loneliness in patients and close persons, it is vital for healthcare professionals to be aware of loneliness in these populations. This review provides key takeaways for healthcare professionals to best support patients and close persons experiencing cancer-related loneliness and provides recommendations for future research directions.<br/
Cancer-associated fibroblasts are associated with neo-adjuvant treatment response in oesophageal adenocarcinoma
No full textBackground: Neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) in oesophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is characterised by differential responses between patients and treatment modalities. The components of the tumour microenvironment (TME) that contribute to this are unknown. We explored this, focusing on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) an abundant TME component. Methods: We performed histopathologic, single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis on 26 patients, stratified by pathological response to NAT, and validated a prognostic model in genomic consortia cohorts. Patient-derived cells were used to model CAF phenotypes in vitro. Results: We observed changes in the TME in response to the NAT received. Specific changes in fibroblasts correlated with treatment response and altered gene expression associated with NAT type. Three myofibroblastic phenotypes dominate the TME, two of which persist in non-responders and could only be partially re-capitulated in vitro using co-culture with cancer cells or TGF-β. A two-gene NAT fibrotic signature was an independent prognostic indicator in chemo/chemoradiotherapy treated patients (HR = 2.47, p = 0.029). Conclusions: This study provides a compendium of cell phenotypes in EAC across the current NAT treatment pathway that provides insights into CAF biology and cancer progression. MyoCAFs represent an axis to repurpose agents to enhance current therapies and immunotherapy.</p
Interactions between the microbiome, nutrition, behaviour and welfare of domesticated animals
No full textPublic good provision with a Governor
No full textWe study a public good game with N citizens and a Governor who allocates resources from a common fund. Citizens may voluntarily contribute or be compelled to do so if audited, in which case shirkers face a penalty. The Governor decides how much of the fund to devote to public good provision, with the remainder embezzled. Crucially, the Governor's utility combines material payoffs from embezzlement with belief-dependent reputational concerns. We fully characterize the symmetric subgame perfect equilibria (SSPE) of the game. The model always admits at least one pure-strategy equilibrium, ranging from universal free-riding with complete embezzlement to full contribution with efficient provision. Mixed-strategy equilibria exist only in a narrow region of parameter values and may involve multiple equilibria. Our analysis highlights the roles of penalties, audits, and reputational incentives in sustaining contribution and provision, thereby linking public good provision with the broader literature on corruption, embezzlement, and psychological game theory
Participative research for individualised care in cardiovascular diseases (PRIC-CVD): study protocol for a non-interventional, multicentre mixed-methods study as part of iCARE4CVD
No full textCardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a public health burden, with high prevalence and significant morbidity and mortality. Although evidence-based interventions exist, there is a need for more individualised care. The European project Individualised care from early risk of cardiovascular disease to established heart failure (iCARE4CVD) aims to personalise CVD prevention and treatment. Participatory health research, which actively involves patients in the planning, implementation and evaluation of projects, plays a crucial role here. However, patient participation is often unsuccessful due to the lack of a representative patient sample who is involved throughout the project's duration, has knowledge of the project and can contribute their experience. Participative Research for Individualised Care in Cardiovascular Diseases is a non-interventional, non-randomised, multicentre mixed-methods study. The aim is to incorporate patients' insights into several key activities within iCARE4CVD by establishing country-specific patient panels in Belgium, Germany, Ireland and the UK. The primary objective is to identify patients' preferences, experiences, requirements and needs for better diagnosis, treatment and self-care of CVD. Therefore, 10-12 patients across the CVD spectrum, from early risk to established CVD and heart failure, will be included in each country (40-48 in total). Over 3.5 years, patient panel members are required to complete four tasks: (1) identification of meaningful Patient-Reported Outcome and Experiences Measures, (2) development of a motivational model to increase adherence, (3) feedback on CVD care processes and (4) usability testing of new digital tools developed within iCARE4CVD. These tasks comprise eight activities in the form of paper-based or digital exercises, telephone surveys, written surveys and in-person focus groups. The results will be continuously incorporated into iCARE4CVD. This study received ethical approval by the Ethics Committee at the Faculty of Medicine of RWTH Aachen University (EK 24-172) and St. Vincent's University Hospital (RS24-027), Research Ethics Committee. In Geel and Belfast, positive ethics approval is pending. All participants will provide written informed consent prior to enrolment in the study and participation in the first patient panel task. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences. DRKS00034899. V2.1, 6 June 2024
Pancreatic cancer education: a scoping review
No full textBackground: Pancreatic cancer is one of the most psychologically and socially distressing cancers, with high symptom burden, rapid disease progression, and profound impacts on patients’ quality of life. Despite these challenges, education for healthcare professionals, students, and the public often fails to address the full spectrum of psychosocial, emotional, and spiritual needs encountered in practice. Objective: This scoping review aimed to explore the current evidence base for pancreatic cancer education across patients, carers and professionals, with a particular focus on how physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of care are integrated into educational interventions. Methods: The review followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and was prospectively registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF). Five databases (CINAHL, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus) were systematically searched. Of 4,898 records screened, 57 met criteria for full-text review, and 19 studies were included for final analysis. Studies were assessed independently by two reviewers using validated JBI screening and data extraction tools, and managed via Covidence. Results: Most studies identified interventions were biomedical in focus, with only a minority incorporating psycho-oncological or holistic care components. Few studies addressed the psychological effects of a pancreatic cancer diagnosis, communication strategies for distress or end-of-life care, or support for spiritual or existential concerns. Social dimensions, such as caregiver burden and access to support services, were rarely addressed in a structured educational format. Conclusion: This review demonstrates a significant gap in pancreatic cancer education related to psychosocial and holistic care. There is an urgent need to develop validated, interdisciplinary educational interventions that integrate psycho-oncological principles to better equip healthcare providers in meeting the complex needs of this patient population