bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DECORIN, a triceps‐derived myokine, protects sorted β‐cells and human islets against chronic inflammation associated with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Langlois Allan , Cherfan Julien , Meugnier Emmanuelle , Rida Ahmad , Arous Caroline , Peronet Claude , Hamdard Harzo , Zarrouki Bader , Wehrle‐Haller Bernhard , Pinget Michel , Craige Siobhan M. , Bouzakri Karim
Published: January 2025

Aim

Pancreatic β‐cells are susceptible to inflammation, leading to decreased insulin production/secretion and cell death. Previously, we have identified a novel triceps‐derived myokine, DECORIN, which plays a pivotal role in skeletal muscle‐to‐pancreas interorgan communication. However, whether DECORIN can directly impact β‐cell function and susceptibility to inflammation remains unexplored.

Methods

The effect of DECORIN was assessed in sorted human and rat β‐cell and human islets from healthy and type 2 diabetes (T2D) donors. We assessed glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) and cytokine‐mediated cell death. We then challenged sorted β‐cells and human islets with inflammatory cytokines commonly associated with diabetes, such as tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) alone or in combination with interleukin1‐β (IL1‐β) and interferon‐γ (cytomix).

Results

DECORIN enhanced cell spreading and the localization of phosphorylated FAK at adhesions, promoting GSIS under basal conditions. It also increased insulin granule docking adhesion length and countered the inhibitory effects of TNF‐α on adhesion and actin remodeling at the β‐cell surface, resulting in preserved GSIS. DECORIN protected from cell death in sorted β‐cells and islets challenged with TNF‐α alone or TNF‐α + cytomix. Interestingly, DECORIN increased both insulin content and secretion in human islets from T2D individuals. Additionally, DECORIN treatment reversed the impaired gene expression caused by T2D and enhanced the expression of genes essential for islet function and metabolism.

Conclusion

Collectively, we have shown that DECORIN had a beneficial effect on human islets, protecting them from inflammation‐induced cell death. In T2D islets, DECORIN restores islet function and reverses the expression of T2D‐associated genes. Based on our data, we propose that DECORIN is a promising therapeutic target for diabetes‐associated inflammation and diabetes itself.
Political party affiliation and subjective well‐being: Evidence from China
Authors: Ma Xinxin
Published: January 2025

Utilizing longitudinal data from the China Family Panel Studies spanning from 2010 to 2020, this study examined the impact of affiliation with the Communist Party of China (CPC) on subjective well‐being (SWB). The results indicate that CPC affiliation exhibited a positive influence on an individual's SWB, and this conclusion was supported through a series of robustness checks. However, the positive effect diminished when addressing the issue of individual heterogeneity. The favorable effect of CPC affiliation was more pronounced among middle‐aged and older generations compared to the younger generation. The positive influence of CPC affiliation on life satisfaction experienced a decline in the recent period. Lastly, the positive impact of CPC affiliation on SWB could potentially be attributed to five plausible pathways: an increase in income, augmentation of assets, elevation in social status, the possibility of engaging in the public sector workforce, and a heightened sense of optimism for the future.
Exploration of the Evidence on Discharge From Hospital to Home for Children With Medical Complexity and Their Parents: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Mackay Lyndsay , Dewan Tammie , Lal Jaanvi , Hayden K. Alix , Chang Una
Published: January 2025

Background

Children with medical complexity (CMC) require complex care that parents must independently provide and manage when discharged home from hospital. It is important that parents are adequately prepared to safely transition home from hospital with their child.

Method

A synthesis of findings from research articles was conducted to map and summarize available evidence on CMC and their parents' experiences of discharge from hospital to home. A total of 32 studies were included in this review. Thematic analysis was used to analyze and describe the data.

Results

The following key themes were developed during data analysis: preparation and readiness, aids for discharge, overwhelmed with the transition, frustration with time to get home, difficulties with transitions and discharge interventions.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate the importance of taking steps to ensure CMC and their parents undergo a thorough and planned discharge process to prepare parents to confidently provide safe care to their children in the home. Approaches and strategies for comprehensive and safe discharge are provided.
Learning (Not) to Know: Examining How White Ignorance Manifests and Functions in White Adolescents' Racial Identity Narratives
Authors: Dull Brandon D. , Rogers Leoandra Onnie , Ross Jade
Published: January 2025

In critical approaches to the study of whiteness, white ignorance refers to systematic and intentional ways of (not) knowing that function to perpetuate racism. The current critical qualitative analysis examines how white ignorance surfaces in the racial identity narratives of white adolescents (N = 69, Mage = 15.91, SD = 0.49, data collected 2017–2019). Using semi‐structured interview data, we identified three manifestations of accommodation to white ignorance: constructing white as disadvantaged, framing race(ism) as unimportant and elsewhere, and the active refusal to know or imagine racial oppression. Alongside this accommodation we also observed a less common but important thread of resistance to white ignorance: seeing (and naming) systemic racism. The findings reveal how white ignorance as a macrosystemic cultural practice becomes embedded in, and strengthened through, the micro‐level racial identities of white adolescents. Implications for conceptualizing and contextualizing white racial identity in developmental science are discussed.
Balanced Translocation t(3;12) Disrupting HMGA2 and NAALADL2 Genes in Twins With Silver–Russell Syndrome and Intellectual Disability
Authors: de Souza Vanessa Sodré , Wawruk Halinna Dornelles , Mehrjouy Mana M. , Bak Mads , da Cunha Gabriela Corassa Rodrigues , Gonçalves Ana Caroline Gabriel , Cordoba Mara Santos , Tommerup Niels , Mazzeu Juliana F.
Published: January 2025

Silver–Russell Syndrome (SRS) is a genetic disorder characterized by intrauterine and postnatal growth restriction. Most cases are caused by an imprinting error either with hypomethylation of the Imprinted Control Region 1 at 11p15.5, or maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 7. Approximately 40% of the cases have unknown etiology, thus distinct mechanisms have been described in association with the syndrome. Here, we present a case of monozygotic twin sisters with a clinical diagnosis of SRS, mild intellectual disability and epilepsy who carry a balanced translocation between chromosomes 3 and 12 that interrupts the NAALADL2 and HMGA2 genes, respectively. Disruption of HMGA2, a gene previously described as causative of SRS, confirms the initial diagnosis. NAALADL2 gene has been recently proposed as a candidate for intellectual disability and could partially contribute to our patient's phenotype.
Patient perspectives of shared decision‐making in emergency surgery
Authors: Spence Rachel , Moug Susan Joan , Minnis Meghan , Chaudhary Attika , Docherty Mairi , Jamal Sherzah , MacTavish Shona , Bisset Carly Nichola
Published: January 2025

Aim

Shared decision‐making (SDM) is now considered the gold standard approach to counselling and obtaining patient consent. Research into patient perceptions of SDM is lacking and barriers to its implementation remain, specifically in the time‐pressurized, high‐risk emergency general surgery (EGS) setting. The aim of this work was to explore what EGS patients understand about SDM, gaining insight into their perspectives and experiences to understand the potential barriers both clinicians and patients may face.

Method

This work consisted of two parts: part 1 was an initial scoping review to inform the development of part 2—a patient and public involvement (PPI) exercise. The scoping review determined the quantity and quality of research in this area enabling long‐listing of known SDM concepts. This long‐list developed questions and structured discussions for the PPI exercise. Responses were transcribed, then analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

The scoping review found limited evidence for both the implementation of SDM in EGS and patients' perspectives. Seven papers considered SDM in other settings that allowed long‐listing of the values and concepts for the PPI exercise. Nine patients and four supporters were identified from an established EGS database. After open discussion of the values and SDM concepts, thematic analysis was performed that identified two key themes: patient perceptions of how surgeons make decisions, and patient experiences of EGS decision‐making. Five subtheme analyses showed participants were not aware of surgeons' use of ‘30‐day mortality’ and could not quantify surgical risk, feeling time pressures and out of control. Almost all relied on surgeons to make their decision, valuing the surgeon's opinion over their own.

Conclusion

With no previous reported evidence, this work provides the first patient insights into SDM in the EGS setting. With multiple barriers identified, further work is essential to increase implementation of this gold standard approach to patient consent.
The Impact of Gender, Ethnicity, and the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Organ Donation Intentions Over 50 Years in New Zealand
Authors: Allen Natalie E. , Zhang Jie , McGhee Charles N. J. , Gokul Akilesh , Niederer Rachael
Published: January 2025

Aim

To identify the demographics and trends of individuals intending to donate their organs, based on intentions at the time of driver's license registration.

Methods

Data were collected from 4 742 475 individuals first registering for a New Zealand (NZ) driver's license, between January 1, 1974, and November 16, 2023, with positive or negative organ donor intentions recorded. Gender, ethnicity, and year of registration were collected. Predictors of positive organ donation intention were examined with a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results

A positive response to the question regarding organ donation intentions was reported in 2 476 914 individuals (52.2%). This included 1 201 275 males (48.4%) and 1 275 639 females (56.4%). Positive organ donation intention was reported in 1 695 672 NZ Europeans (66.2%), 246 303 Māori (36.2%), 76 749 Pasifika (27.6%), 273 879 Asians (34.4%), 52 137 Middle Eastern, Latin American and African (MELAA) (47.0%), 48 876 “Other” ethnicity (63.5%), and 83 298 “Not otherwise specified” (34.7%). On multivariate logistic regression, the female gender was associated with an increased likelihood of organ donation intention (OR 1.37, p < 0.001), and driver's license registration in a more recent year was associated with an increased likelihood of organ donation intention (OR 1.02, p < 0.001). Compared to all other ethnicities, NZ Europeans were associated with a higher likelihood of positive organ donation intention.

Conclusions

This is the largest study of organ donation intention published in Australasia. It demonstrates a higher likelihood of organ donation intentions in females, ethnic differences, and increasing donation intention rates over time. Further investigation is required to explore the difference between intentions and end‐of‐life organ donation.
Thy1c Cytology Is a Reliable Method of Excluding Thyroid Cancer in Dominant Cystic Nodules
Authors: Regan A. , Boyd A. , Patel N. , Stechman M. J. , Scott‐Coombes D.
Published: January 2025

Background

Traditional teaching dictated that patients with recurrent thyroid cysts undergo excision owing to a 12% risk malignancy. Ultrasound evaluation now determines management of these patients augmented by fine needle biopsy. In UK, a non‐diagnostic category for thyroid cysts (Thy1c) exists, whereas the Bethesda system combines ‘non‐diagnostic—cyst fluid only’ into Category I along with paucicellular and acellular results. The aim was to assess the ability of Thy1c cytology to exclude malignancy.

Methods

We undertook a retrospective study of patients undergoing thyroidectomy with Thy1c cytology from analysis of the Unit database. Additionally, we made a retrospective search in our pathology database for reports combining ‘papillary thyroid carcinoma’ with ‘cyst’ or ‘cystic’ and compared histology with cytology.

Results

Between 2003 and 2023 115 patients (97 women, median age 44y, range 16–72) underwent thyroidectomy following Thy1c cytology. Indications for surgery included recurrent cyst (90%); compressive symptoms (9%) and one thyrotoxicosis. In no patient was the primary diagnosis malignant; multinodular goitre was commonest (87.76%); benign cyst (19.16%); follicular adenoma (5.4%) and coincidental pT1a classical papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) (4.3%). In the retrospective audit, 61 pathology reports contained ‘PTC’ and ‘cyst’/‘cystic’. The cystic element was in primary tumour (31.51%); nodal metastasis (17.28%) and adjacent benign disease (13.21%). Only 5 (8%) patients had Thy1c cytology; 4 had pT1a tumours and one a benign cyst and a 19 mm PTC.

Conclusion

Thy1c category reliably excludes significant malignancy. For patients with symptomatic cysts, ultrasound assessment and Thy1c cytology can guide the clinician to treat with either ablation or resection without the fear of mistreating a thyroid cancer.
Monitoring Riparian Vegetation in Urban Areas With Sentinel‐2 Satellite Imagery
Authors: Hislop Samuel , Soto‐Berelov Mariela , Jellinek Sacha , Chee Yung En , Jones Simon
Published: January 2025

Riparian vegetation is important for biodiversity, creates habitat for various fauna and provides vital ecosystem services such as flow regulation, water filtration, uptake, transformation and cycling of minerals, nutrients and organic matter. These ecological functions and processes contribute to the health of waterways. In many urban and semiurban areas, riparian vegetation is subject to degradation pressures such as land clearing for urban development, altered hydrological regimes due to modified catchment land cover and runoff patterns and other human‐induced disturbances. Monitoring riparian vegetation cover and condition is vital for informing effective management. This can be achieved via detailed field assessment; however, this is often costly, time and labour intensive and extremely difficult to undertake across large regions such as an entire stream network. This study examines the utility of medium‐resolution Sentinel‐2 satellite imagery for monitoring riparian vegetation across the Greater Melbourne region, Australia. The paper demonstrates several examples of how spectral trends from Sentinel‐2 imagery (2019–2023) can be used to provide insights, which are expected to improve over time as more data become available. We also assessed the potential of combining Sentinel‐2 imagery with field observations to model riparian vegetation conditions. Using 425 field observations and a series of Sentinel‐2–derived predictor variables, a Random Forest regression model was developed to model riparian vegetation condition. The model explained 53% of the variance in the data. Although the spatial resolution of Sentinel‐2 (10 m) is a limitation when working with narrow riparian vegetation corridors, our methods demonstrate it can be used to help prioritise areas for protection and/or enhancement and identify areas that may be at risk of further degradation. This can assist waterway managers to prioritise field activities such as restoration and revegetation, and the control of key weeds and browsing animals.
Improving Safety and Efficiency of Industrial Vehicles by Bio‐Inspired Algorithms
Authors: Bayona Eduardo , Sierra‐García J. Enrique , Santos Peñas Matilde
Published: January 2025

In the context of industrial automation, optimising automated guided vehicle (AGV) trajectories is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and safety. They must travel in crowded work areas and cross narrow corridors with strict safety and time requirements. Bio‐inspired optimization algorithms have emerged as a promising approach to deal with complex optimization scenarios. Thus, this paper explores the ability of three novel bio‐inspired algorithms: the Bat Algorithm (BA), the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) and the Gazelle Optimization Algorithm (GOA); to optimise the AGV path planning in complex environments. To do it, a new optimization strategy is described: the AGV trajectory is based on clothoid curves and a specialised piece‐wise fitness function which prioritises safety and efficiency is designed. Simulation experiments were conducted across different occupancy maps to evaluate the performance of each algorithm. WOA demonstrates faster optimization providing suitable safety solutions 4 times faster than GOA. Meanwhile, GOA gives solutions with better safety metrics but demands more computational time. The study highlights the potential of bio‐inspired approaches for AGV trajectory optimisation and suggests avenues for future research, including hybrid algorithm development.
Quantitative Review of Critical Plane Criteria and Stress Analysis Approaches for Multiaxial Fatigue of Welded Joints
Authors: Ng Chin Tze , Susmel Luca
Published: January 2025

This quantitative review evaluates the effectiveness of stress‐based critical plane criteria, specifically Findley's criterion, the approach due to Carpinteri–Spagnoli (CS), and the Modified Wöhler Curve Method (MWCM), in assessing fatigue strength in aluminum and steel welded joints subjected to constant amplitude (CA) and variable amplitude (VA) multiaxial loading. These criteria were analyzed alongside stress analysis approaches, including nominal stress (NS), hot‐spot stress (HSS), effective notch stress (ENS), and the Theory of Critical Distances–Point Method (TCD PM). Results confirm that all criteria effectively estimate fatigue life for steel welded joints under CA loading, with MWCM combined with HSS proving most accurate. For aluminum joints, estimations showed greater conservatism and scatter, highlighting the need for further experimental data to improve accuracy. Experimentally calibrated constants significantly enhanced prediction reliability. Future research should refine these criteria for diverse aluminum grades and thicknesses, ensuring accurate estimations and robust alternatives to established codes.
Disability in Early Modern Japan: A Survey of Concepts and Issues
Authors: Tan Wei Yu Wayne
Published: January 2025

This article discusses current conceptual frameworks and new directions in disability studies, with a focus on certain disabilities and particular groups of people with disabilities in early modern Japan (or Tokugawa Japan, 1600–1868). Disability historians of non‐Euro‐American societies can benefit from asking the common questions that motivate disability history and, more generally, disability studies. Historical research on disability in early modern Japan contributes to the collective effort of explaining how disability is related to the understanding of medicine, disease, and illness, how people with disabilities embody their experiences, and how disability intersects with cultural knowledge, gender, and material conditions in society.
The Effect of Earlier Contract Date for Auditor Change on Audit Quality
Authors: Kim Sangil , Kim Jonggeun , Lee Ho‐Young
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effect of an earlier contract for auditor change (ECAC) on audit quality. In November 2018, the Korean government mandated that client firms must complete audit engagement contracts before the date of the audit report. This requirement informed incumbent auditors about the final year of their engagement prior to completing audit procedures. Our hypothesis suggests that this increased awareness enhances the independence of incumbent auditors, resulting in improved audit quality. The findings support the hypothesis and reveal that audit quality with incumbent auditors in the year preceding the auditor change is higher following the implementation of ECAC. ECAC is identified as a cost‐effective approach, as it can be readily implemented by advancing the notice date for auditor changes. These findings offer valuable insights to other countries seeking to enhance their audit quality while minimising costs.
Risk factors for rectal wall infiltration in hydrogel spacer placement: Influence of biopsy approach
Authors: Hirose Kohei , Nakanishi Yasukazu , Ogasawara Ryo Andy , Imasato Naoki , Inoue Minoru , Sekiya Ken , Kataoka Madoka , Hojo Hidehiro , Yajima Shugo , Zenda Sadamoto , Masuda Hitoshi
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the association between the type of prostate biopsy and the occurrence of rectal wall infiltration (RWI) with hydrogel spacer placement in patients undergoing radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted involving 175 patients who received hydrogel spacer placement before radiotherapy at the National Cancer Center East Hospital, between October 2021 and December 2023. The patients were categorized based on the type of prostate biopsy: transperineal and transrectal. Spacer placement was followed by MRI to confirm spacer position. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with significant RWI.

Results

Of the 175 patients analyzed, 115 underwent transperineal biopsy (TPB) and 60 underwent transrectal biopsy (TRB). The median age was 74 years, and the median prostate volume was 18.6 mL. RWI occurred in 44 (25.1%) of all cases. TRB was associated with a significantly higher occurrence of RWI grade ≥2 compared to TPB (23.3% vs. 4.3%, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified TRB (OR = 5.81, 95% CI = 1.91–17.60, p = 0.002) and smaller prostate volume (≤18.0 mL) (OR = 4.23, 95% CI = 1.23–13.90, p = 0.018) as significant risk factors for RWI grade ≥2.

Conclusion

The study found that TRB significantly associated the risk of RWI following hydrogel spacer placement in prostate cancer radiotherapy. Smaller prostate volumes also heightened this risk. These findings highlight the importance of considering biopsy type and prostate size in planning spacer placement.
Performance measures of sustainable development goals using SWI MCDM methods: a case of the Indian states
Authors: Dwivedi Pankaj Prasad , Sharma Dilip Kumar
Published: January 2025

Agenda 2030, also known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is a set of global goals adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The SDGs provide a framework to tackle one of the world's most critical challenges: climate change. The 17 interconnected goals address a broad spectrum of social, economic, and environmental issues. The Government of India has embraced “Agenda 2030,” encompassing 17 SDGs alongside various indicators and targets within the sustainable framework. These indicators were instrumental in assessing the current status of the state concerning SDG attainment. Our primary contribution to this research lies in adopting the prescribed methodology to examine the current status of the SDG India Index 3.0. We focused on evaluating major objectives across Indian states, rating them based on their performance. This study proposes a novel approach utilizing the sum‐weighted information (SWI) multicriteria decision analysis/making (MCDA/M) framework to assess the progress of Indian states toward achieving the SDGs based on information measures. By integrating quantitative and qualitative indicators, this method offers a comprehensive evaluation of various aspects. The SWI MCDA/M framework enables policymakers and stakeholders to identify key strengths and weaknesses, prioritize areas for improvement, and formulate targeted strategies to accelerate progress toward the SDGs at the state level in India. Through empirical analysis and case studies, this research contributes to enhancing the effectiveness of SDG implementation efforts, fostering development practices, and promoting inclusive growth across Indian states. The findings indicate that Kerala achieved the first rank, with a 4.516 bits information score and Bihar ranks lowest among states in meeting the standards outlined in “Agenda 2030,” with a 5.530 bits information score.
Frontline Fallout in Chinese Healthcare: Does Negative Beneficiary Contact Harm Nurses' Mental Health?
Authors: Xu Tong , Xu Haihong , Wang Zhen
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study aims to explore whether, how, and when negative beneficiary contact (NBC) harms nurses' mental health.

Design

This was a quantitative time‐lagged study, collecting data across three distinct time points.

Method

We collected data from 422 nurses in 2024, conducting a series of hierarchical regression analyses to test our hypothesis.

Results

The results revealed that NBC positively affects strain, which in turn mediates the negative relationship between NBC and nurses' mental health. More importantly, the influence of nurses' resilience and supervisors' appreciation moderates these relationships. Specifically, when nurses are less resilient or receive less appreciation from their supervisors, NBC demonstrates a strong positive association with strain and mental health issues. In contrast, for nurses with higher resilience or with supervisors who demonstrate higher appreciation, this impact is nonsignificant.

Conclusion

The results indicated that NBC leads to psychological problems of nurses via increased strain. Nurses' resilience and supervisors' appreciation could buffer the negative impact of NBC on the nurse's mental health due to strain.

Impact

On the whole, this paper aims to examine the impact of NBC on nurses' mental health and potential remedies. By shedding light on this underexplored area, we hope to contribute to the broader discourse on improving working conditions for nurses and ensuring their mental well‐being. Addressing this critical issue is not only vital for the health and safety of nurses but also for the sustainability of the healthcare system.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Nurses from a hospital in China contributed to this study by completing questionnaires during non‐working hours. No other participants were involved in the study.
The Experiences of Healthcare Services and Ageing Among Older Turkish Immigrants: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Şahin Süleyman , Temür Büşra Nur , Öncel Selma , Aksoy Nilgün , Helvik Anne‐Sofie
Published: January 2025

Aims

The aim of this study is to explore patterns of the lived experiences of first‐generation Turkish immigrants (≥ 60 years) living and ageing in Norway regarding their experiences with healthcare services and ageing.

Design

This study used a qualitative study.

Methods

The sample consisted of 17 individuals aged 60 and above who were of Turkish origin, and immigrated to and living in Norway. All participants resided in the same city in the middle part of Norway. Individual face‐to‐face interviews were conducted between February and June 2023. All transcripts were examined using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Two main themes and five subthemes were identified. The first theme was ‘Utilization of the healthcare service to their best’, with the subthemes: (a) ‘Communication through a translator: Expressing health problems’ and (b) ‘From physician to physician: Seeking a second opinion in health’. The second theme was ‘Being born in Türkiye: Aging in Norway’, with the subthemes: (a) ‘Between two worlds: Efforts to establish balance’, (b) ‘Family ties and care preferences: Understanding the care preferences’ and (c) ‘Two cultures, one life: Lifestyles’.

Conclusion

This study reveals the experiences Turkish immigrants have with the healthcare service and ageing while living in Norway and balancing between two cultures. These findings offer a valuable perspective for healthcare providers and social workers and offer insight relevant to developing a cross‐cultural healthcare service programme.

Impact

This study could provide a fundamental step towards understanding older Turkish immigrants and how healthcare services fit their needs. The results revealed Turkish individuals' experiences with ageing and healthcare services, including the use of translator services and general care preferences. The development of more inclusive support programmes for ageing immigrant populations may have far‐reaching impacts on individuals' ability to live healthy and meaningful lives.
Bridging Experience and Practice: A Grounded Theory Study of Nurses' Hospitalisation Experiences as Patients or Family Members
Authors: Lee Won , Jang Seung Gyeong , Pyo Jeehee , Ock Minsu , Choi Eun Young
Published: January 2025

Aims

This study aimed to develop a grounded theory that explains how nurses' experiences as patients or family members influence their provision of patient‐centred care.

Design

A grounded theory approach.

Methods

Twenty clinical nurses in South Korea participated; nine had experiences as patients and 11 as family members during hospitalisation. Data were collected through semi‐structured, in‐depth interviews from January to October 2021. Participants were purposively sampled for diverse experiences, and all interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data analysis followed grounded theory using the constant comparative method, with theoretical saturation reached after 20 interviews.

Results

The theory developed was built around the core category of ‘transforming nursing practice through empathy and reflection in hospitalization experiences’. Participants experienced healthcare services in a wide range of areas, including nursing interactions, patient rights, the healthcare delivery system and hospital facilities. Based on these experiences, participants developed a deep understanding and empathy for the emotions and needs of patients and families, gaining new insights and reflections on their nursing practice. It led to a transformation in participants' attitudes and behaviours towards patient‐centred care.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that reflective practice and empathy developed through personal hospitalisation are important factors in leading to the shift towards patient‐centred care. These findings provide a theoretical framework for emphasising experiential learning opportunities in nursing education and training to apply patient‐centred approaches in practice.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Experiential learning approaches, such as simulation, role playing or caregiver training, can bridge the gap between clinical practice and patient expectations. Supportive work environments that encourage reflection on patient experiences help nurses maintain patient‐centred practices despite challenges, leading to professional growth and improved patient outcomes.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the COREQ checklist for reporting.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public involvement.
How Robotics is Shaping Digital Logistics and Supply Chain Management: An Ongoing Call for Research
Authors: Rainer R. Kelly , Richey Robert Glenn , Chowdhury Soumyadeb
Published: January 2025

The Journal of Business Logistics has been the top location for publishing logistics and supply chain‐related technological research for over forty years. With digital transformation, reshoring of manufacturing, labor shortages, decreasing birth rates, and aging workforces, companies are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence‐supported robotics to increase the ability of supply chains to react quickly and effectively to changes in customer demand, market conditions, or disruptions. This paper analyzes the use of hardware robots across the logistics fulfillment process. The study addresses the evolution of robotic training from explicit programming to machine learning and continues with a detailed discussion of generative machine learning. We then provide an overview of key hardware robots driven by generative machine learning models that are used in the fulfillment process. The paper examines the challenges that robot adoption presents to organizations and concludes with explicit directions for further research using the Theory of Resource Orchestration.
Impact of Pulsed Electric Field Pretreatment on Extraction Efficiency and Quality Attributes of Sohiong Fruit Juice
Authors: Debbarma Mwchangti , Srivastava Brijesh
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the impact of pulsed electric field (PEF) pretreatment on the extraction and quality of Sohiong juice. A full factorial optimal design was employed to determine the best PEF conditions. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the effects of electric field strength (2–10 kV/cm), treatment time (20–80 s), and solid‐water ratios (1:1, 1:1.5, and 1:2) on juice yield (JY), ascorbic acid (AA), color difference (ΔE), cloud stability (CS), total phenolic content (TPC), total anthocyanin content (TAC), and radical scavenging activity (%DPPH). Comparative analysis was performed between PEF and thermal‐treated samples, and ANOVA was applied to assess statistical significance. Optimal PEF conditions (10 kV/cm, 60 s, 1:1 solid–liquid ratio) showed a significant (p < 0.05) enhancement of 26, 77, 11, 20 12, and 89% in JY, CS, TAC, TPC, DPPH inhibition, and AA retention, respectively. However, thermally treated samples showed higher shear stress and viscosity than PEF‐treated ones. The model demonstrates significant differences (p < 0.05), indicating an excellent fit with higher R2 and Adj R2 values denoting increased model accuracy. FTIR analysis depicts functional groups like O–H, C=C, and C–O–C indicative of anthocyanins. Further, the absorption range of 1680–1600 cm−1 also suggests the presence of pectin. SEM analysis demonstrated microstructural changes, with a breakdown of the cell membrane in Sohiong pomace, enhancing porosity and aiding improved extraction of valuable compounds. This research highlights that PEF technology can improve the quality of fresh fruit juice while maintaining its nutritional value compared to thermal treatments.
Assessing decarbonization strategies and industrial symbiosis in the chemical and waste‐to‐energy sector
Authors: Schnyder Maria , Huo Jing , Hellweg Stefanie
Published: January 2025

Swiss waste‐to‐energy (WtE) plants are required to capture their CO2 emissions by 2050 to meet the net‐zero climate target, with options for underground storage (carbon capture and storage [CCS]) or utilization (carbon capture and utilization [CCU]). This opens up a synergistic opportunity for the petrochemical industry to utilize the captured CO2 as a feedstock, potentially helping both sectors reduce their carbon footprints. We conducted a prospective carbon footprint analysis on various net‐zero strategies within the Swiss WtE plants (CCU and CCS) and German ethylene production (CO2‐based ethylene, bio‐ethylene, and fossil ethylene with CCS), including scenarios of industrial symbiosis. While focusing on these two countries, the findings offer valuable insights applicable to similar sectors in other regions. All assessed pathways reduce the carbon footprint by at least 60% relative to the reference scenario (no carbon capture in WtE plants and fossil ethylene production). Bio‐ethylene and direct air capture–based ethylene combined with CCS in WtE exhibit the lowest climate change impacts, achieving net negative emissions when powered by renewable electricity. However, these pathways all come with trade‐offs: The availability of sustainable biomass and low‐carbon electricity is limited, and future resource competition may delimit the penetration of these technology combinations. CCS in ethylene production plants could reduce emissions while utilizing existing infrastructure but does not eliminate emissions from fossil fuel extraction. Ethylene produced with CO2 from WtE plants could be a viable interim solution until CCS barriers are overcome.
More habitual deviation alleviates the trade‐offs between dietary health, environmental impacts, and economic cost
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zheng Xinzhu , Liu Wenling , Ma Li
Published: January 2025

Dietary transition provides a promising demand‐side strategy for sustainable development, although challenges lie in balancing the trade‐offs between human health, environmental sustainability and economic affordability. Our study revisits the trade‐offs through the perspective of population heterogeneity. Specifically, transitioning the Chinese diet from its 2011 baseline to a healthier alternative with minimal behavioral adjustments could intensify environmental and economic impacts by 1.3–2.3 times. Conversely, relaxing behavioral constraints can yield both environmental and economic benefits. Specifically, replacing red meats (beef, mutton, pork) with poultry and seafood helps reduce cost, while substituting both red meats and seafood with more poultry, fruits, and vegetables enhances environmental benefits. However, this adaptive approach is not universally applicable. Stringent constraints aimed at mitigating environmental or economic impacts may inadvertently marginalize specific groups, such as the rural, elderly, or low‐income populations, denying them the advantages of healthier dietary options. These findings highlight the necessity of developing inclusive strategies that support the healthy dietary shift of vulnerable groups.
Proximal remote sensing: an essential tool for bridging the gap between high‐resolution ecosystem monitoring and global ecology
Authors: Pierrat Zoe Amie , Magney Troy S. , Richardson Will P. , Runkle Benjamin R. K. , Diehl Jen L. , Yang Xi , Woodgate William , Smith William K. , Johnston Miriam R. , Ginting Yohanes R. S. , Koren Gerbrand , Albert Loren P. , Kibler Christopher L. , Morgan Bryn E. , Barnes Mallory , Uscanga Adriana , Devine Charles , Javadian Mostafa , Meza Karem , Julitta Tommaso , Tagliabue Giulia , Dannenberg Matthew P. , Antala Michal , Wong Christopher Y. S. , Santos Andre L. D. , Hufkens Koen , Marrs Julia K. , Stovall Atticus E. L. , Liu Yujie , Fisher Joshua B. , Gamon John A. , Cawse‐Nicholson Kerry
Published: January 2025

A new proliferation of optical instruments that can be attached to towers over or within ecosystems, or ‘proximal’ remote sensing, enables a comprehensive characterization of terrestrial ecosystem structure, function, and fluxes of energy, water, and carbon. Proximal remote sensing can bridge the gap between individual plants, site‐level eddy‐covariance fluxes, and airborne and spaceborne remote sensing by providing continuous data at a high‐spatiotemporal resolution. Here, we review recent advances in proximal remote sensing for improving our mechanistic understanding of plant and ecosystem processes, model development, and validation of current and upcoming satellite missions. We provide current best practices for data availability and metadata for proximal remote sensing: spectral reflectance, solar‐induced fluorescence, thermal infrared radiation, microwave backscatter, and LiDAR. Our paper outlines the steps necessary for making these data streams more widespread, accessible, interoperable, and information‐rich, enabling us to address key ecological questions unanswerable from space‐based observations alone and, ultimately, to demonstrate the feasibility of these technologies to address critical questions in local and global ecology.
Stand density and local climate drive allocation of GPP to aboveground woody biomass
Authors: Kannenberg Steven A. , Babst Flurin , Barnes Mallory L. , Cabon Antoine , Dannenberg Matthew P. , Johnston Miriam R. , Anderegg William R. L.
Published: January 2025

The partitioning of photosynthate among various forest carbon pools is a key process regulating long‐term carbon sequestration, with allocation to aboveground woody biomass carbon (AGBC) in particular playing an outsized role in the global carbon cycle due to its slow residence time. However, directly estimating the fraction of gross primary productivity (GPP) that goes to AGBC has historically been difficult and time‐consuming, leaving us with persistent uncertainties.

We used an extensive dataset of tree‐ring chronologies co‐located at flux towers to assess the coupling between AGBC and GPP, calculate the fraction of fixed carbon that is allocated to AGBC, and understand the drivers of variability in this fraction.

We found that annual AGBC and GPP were rarely correlated, and that annual AGBC represented only a small fraction (c. 9%) of fixed carbon. This fraction varied considerably across sites and was driven by differences in stand density and site climate. Annual AGBC was suppressed by c. 30% during drought and remained below average for years afterward.

These results imply that assumptions of relatively stationary allocation of GPP to woody biomass and other plant tissues could lead to systematic biases in modeled carbon accumulation in different plant pools and thus in carbon residence time.
Association of iron deficiency and anemia with obesity among children: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sachdeva Meenakshi , Malik Meenakshi , Purohit Abhishek , Jain Lovely , Kaur Kulbir , Pradhan Pranita , Mathew Joseph L.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Obesity is a potential risk factor for anemia in children. This systematic review (SR) was undertaken to estimate the association of obesity with iron deficiency (ID) and ID anemia (IDA), in children.

Methods

A systematic literature search for observational studies was done in PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and the Cochrane library, with additional hand‐searching. Two reviewers independently screened the search output, included eligible studies, extracted data, and assessed study quality using the National Institutes of Health tool. The main outcomes were association of obesity with anemia (IDA), and ID. Secondary outcomes were hemoglobin level, serum iron, ferritin, transferrin receptor saturation, and hepcidin. Meta‐analysis was done using a random‐effects model. Comparisons were expressed through pooled OR with 95% CI.

Results

Forty‐two studies comprising one cohort, 29 cross‐sectional, and 12 case–control studies comparing 16,633 children living with obesity and 32,573 children without obesity were included. The pooled OR (95% CI) for ID was 1.64 (1.22, 2.21), 16 studies, 20,949 children; and 0.78 (0.43, 1.43), 17 studies, 40,022 children, for IDA. The pooled prevalence of ID was 20.07% (14.98, 25.16) among children living with obesity (16 studies, 3147 children), compared to 16.1% (11.82, 20.38) in children without obesity. Children living with obesity had significantly lower levels of hemoglobin, iron, % transferrin saturation, and higher levels of ferritin and hepcidin than children without obesity.

Conclusion

There is a significant association between iron deficiency and obesity in children.
Programmed Cell Death Tunes Periodontitis
Authors: Xin Yuejiao , Wang Yixiang
Published: January 2025

Objective

To review current knowledge of the various processes of programmed cell death and their roles in immunoregulation in periodontitis.

Methods

Relevant literature in the PubMed, Medline, and Scopus databases was searched, and a narrative review was performed. Programmed cell death and the regulation of its various pathways implicated in periodontal infection were reviewed.

Results

Multicellular organisms dispose of unnecessary or damaged cells via programmed cell death. Programmed cell death lies at the core of the balance of cell death and survival in pathological progress and infection. Periodontitis is a complex infectious disease involving virulence factors of periodontal pathogens and tightly regulated immune responses of the host. Different types of programmed cell death can play opposite roles in periodontitis or exert their action combinatorially.

Conclusion

The coordinated system of various programmed cell death pathways and the extensive crosstalk among them play a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of periodontitis. Illuminating the precise roles and mechanisms of programmed cell death in periodontitis could open up novel therapeutic approaches.
Cost of Illness Study on Oral Cancer in Australia
Authors: Gama M. A. B. , Tonmukayakul U. , Saraswat N. , McCaffrey N. , Nguyen T. M.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The aim of this study is to estimate the economic burden of oral cancer in Australia from the societal perspective.

Methods

The population consisted of the prevalence of lip and oral cavity cancer, and other lip, oral cavity, and pharynx cancers for ages 40 years and older. Healthcare costs of oral cancer were estimated using 2019–2020 Australian Disease Expenditure Data. Productivity losses were estimated using disability‐adjusted life years, derived from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study and 2019 Australian gross domestic product per capita.

Results

The estimated annual healthcare costs for oral cancer in Australia were approximately AUD$113.2 million. Over half of the total healthcare costs (54%) were attributable to public hospital admissions (AUD$61.2 million), followed by private hospital services (28%) and pharmaceutical benefits (8%). The total costs, including healthcare and productivity losses, were around AUD$2.1 billion. The productivity losses due to oral cancer were higher for males compared to females (AUD$1.5 billion versus AUD$0.6 billion).

Conclusions

The study reveals a significant economic burden of oral cancer for 2019 in Australia at AUD$2.1 billion, largely due to productivity losses and public hospital admissions. This highlights the need for effective screening and prevention programs.
Therapy Potential of Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion 360 for Severe Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Authors: Li Lei , Wang Yan , Zhang Hao , Han Jialuo , Qu Changpeng , Sun Yihao , Tao Hao , Ma Xuexiao
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The advent of O‐arm navigation optimized the oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) procedure, allowing the operator to simultaneously perform OLIF and percutaneous posterior pedicle screw implantation without patient position change, thus improving the fluency and accuracy of the OLIF procedure (called as OLIF360). Nevertheless, a consensus regarding its suitability for patients with severe spinal stenosis remains elusive. This study aims to investigate the clinical efficacy of OLIF360 and its imaging changes in severe lumbar spinal stenosis cases.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed clinical data from 63 patients with severe lumbar spinal stenosis. Fourteen patients were treated with OLIF360, and another 37 patients were treated with posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). Lumbar spinal stenosis was assessed using the modified Schizas classification. Clinical efficacy scale scores and postoperative imaging parameter changes were compared between the two groups. Shapiro–Wilk, t‐tests or Mann–Whitney U tests, repeated measures ANOVA, and Bonferroni post hoc tests were applied for statistical analysis.

Results

Both groups showed significant improved pain (p < 0.05). At 1‐month and 3‐month postoperative follow‐ups, OLIF360 group scores superior in Visual Analog Scale than PLIF group (p < 0.05). Greater disc height and lumbar lordosis were displayed in OLIF360 group than PLIF group (p < 0.05). No significant difference in screw placement accuracy between groups was observed. Moreover, significant increases in spinal canal area postoperatively (71.04 ± 6.27 mm2 preop to 109.65 ± 12.34 mm2 postop, p < 0.05) and bilateral foraminal areas were found in the OLIF360 group.

Conclusion

OLIF360 can have promising short‐term efficacy for severe lumbar stenosis treatment with shorter recovery time than PLIF.