bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher education cooperation at the regional level
Authors: Knight Jane
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This article focuses on regional-level cooperation in higher education by examining the functional, organizational and political approaches (FOPA) framework for higher education regionalization and using supra-national regional universities as established and successful examples of regional-level higher education cooperation among countries.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is used to provide the structure for analyzing the key approaches to higher education regionalization, followed by an analysis of supra-national regional universities to demonstrate the application of the model.

Findings

The FOPA framework for higher education regionalization includes three approaches. The first is the functional approach, which includes both collaborative academic and research activities among higher education institutions as well strategies and policies to help align systems across a region. The second is the organizational approach, which focuses on networks, organizations, institutions and programs, which facilitate partnerships. The third is the political approach, which includes regional-level agreements, declarations and strategic plans to promote higher education collaboration. Key higher education activities for each approach are discussed in generic terms, with examples provided from major regions of the world.

Research limitations/implications

The research was based on desk research only. No interviews were conducted.

Practical implications

A conceptual analysis and a model were provided for the concept of regionalization of higher education and for regional universities, which can help readers locate their interests and research in the regionalization of higher education. Examples of three different types of regional universities were provided to give concrete illustrations of a regional university.

Social implications

One of the rationales driving regional universities is to address and increase a sense of regional identify and to meet the social, economic and educational needs of the specified region.

Originality/value

Regional universities, such as the University of West Indies, Arab Open University and the Pan-Africa University, are an understudied phenomenon. Using them as innovative and sustainable examples of higher education regional cooperation and the FOPA model, this study illustrates how single-campus, multiple-campus and virtual regional universities are functioning to meet the diversified needs and priorities across a region through cooperation among countries.
Clinical significance of an elevated on‐admission beta‐hydroxybutyrate in acutely ill adult patients without diabetes
Authors: Lin Samuel , Depczynski Barbara , Varndell Wayne , Hui Su An , Chiew Angela
Published: March 2024

Objective

To determine the relationship between point‐of‐care β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentration and outcomes in adult patients without diabetes admitted through ED.

Methods

This was a prospective study from 10 March to 2 July 2021. Admitted patients without diabetes had capillary BHB sampled in ED. Outcomes of length‐of‐stay (LOS), composite mortality/ICU admission rates and clinical severity scores (Quick Sepsis Organ Failure Assessment score/National Early Warning Score [qSOFA/NEWS]) were measured. BHB was assessed as a continuous variable and between those with BHB above and equal to 1.0 mmol/L and those below 1.0 mmol/L.

Results

A total of 311 patients were included from 2377 admissions. Median length‐of‐stay was 4.1 days (IQR 2.1–9.8), 18 (5.8%) died and 37 (11.8%) were admitted to ICU. Median BHB was 0.2 mmol/L (IQR 0.1–0.4). Twenty‐five patients had BHB ≥1.0 mmol/L and five were >3.0 mmol/L. There was no significant difference in median LOS for patients with BHB ≥1.0 mmol/L compared to non‐ketotic patients, 5.3 days (IQR 2.2–7.5) versus 4.1 days, respectively (IQR 2.0–9.8) (P = 0.69). BHB did not correlate with LOS (Spearman ρ = 0.116, 95% confidence interval: 0.006–0.223). qSOFA and NEWS also did not differ between these cohorts. For those 25 patients with BHB ≥1.0 mmol/L, an infective/inflammatory diagnosis was present in 11 (44%), at least 2 days of fasting in 10 (40%) and ethanol intake >40 g within 48 h in 4 (16%).

Conclusions

Routine BHB measurement in patients without diabetes does not add to clinical bedside assessment and use should be limited to when required to confirm a clinical impression.
Energetics‐based connectivity mapping reveals new conservation opportunities for the endangered tiger in Nepal
Authors: Carter N. H. , Berti E. , Zuckerwise A. , Pradhan N. M. B.
Published: March 2024

Enhancing habitat connectivity is a key strategy for conserving endangered species in anthropogenic landscapes. However, connectivity planning often overlooks the crucial energetic costs to animals of traversing complex terrains. We applied a novel approach for estimating energy costs of movement for tigers – a globally endangered species. We used those estimates to calculate landscape connectivity for these animals across the extreme altitudinal gradient of Nepal, where recent sightings of tigers at higher elevations (~3200 m) suggest an upward range expansion from the tiger‐rich lowlands. To evaluate our estimates, we simulated tiger routes to higher‐elevation locations and compared modeled energy costs of those ascents to those derived from a previous model calibrated with data from GPS‐collared tigers in Russia. In areas below 3200 m, we found about 7.5 times greater land areas with high connectivity outside protected areas (~51 000 km2) than inside (~6800 km2). However, most of the highly connected areas below 3200 m consist of croplands (56%). Importantly, community‐managed forests, which spanned the altitudinal gradient, tended to include areas with moderate levels of connectivity. Our estimates of energy costs and those from Russia showed a strong consensus (ρ = 0.70, P < 0.05), with ours better capturing the higher energy costs of traversing mountains and of very large total ascents. Our results show that while barriers to tiger movement across Nepal are ubiquitous, other effective area‐based conservation measures (OECMs), like community‐managed forests, can play prominent roles in promoting tiger habitat connectivity while minimizing human–tiger conflict across anthropogenic landscapes. Our results also underscore the utility of integrating first principles of energy efficiency into connectivity analyses and planning.
Impact of farm subsidies on global agricultural productivity
Authors: Mamun Abdullah
Published: March 2024

The agriculture sector receives substantial fiscal subsidies in various forms, including through programs that are linked to production and others that are decoupled. As the sector has reached the technology frontier in production over the last three decades or so, particularly in high‐ and middle‐income countries, it is intriguing to investigate the impact of subsidies on productivity at aggregate level. This study examines the impact of subsidies on productivity growth in agriculture globally using a long time series on the nominal rate of assistance for 42 countries that covers over 80% of agricultural production. The econometric results show heterogenous effects from various subsidy instruments depending on the choice of productivity measure. Regression results suggest a strong positive effect of input subsidies on both output growth and labor productivity. A positive but relatively small impact of output subsidies is found on output growth only.
Whose critique matters? The effects of critic identity and audience on public opinion
Authors: Abramson Yehonatan , Menon Anil , Gitlin Abir
Published: March 2024

When evaluating the impact of naming and shaming on public opinion regarding human rights, existing scholarship focuses on messages coming from ingroup or outgroup critics. Diaspora critics, increasingly vocal and visible in recent years, occupy an in‐between identity. What, if any, is the impact of criticism coming from such critics? We address this question by fielding a pre‐registered survey experiment in Israel, a country that routinely faces diasporic criticism. We find that exposure to criticism from both diaspora and foreign critics (but not from domestic critics) triggered a backlash response on the criticized issue (human rights) compared to a no‐criticism condition. However, diaspora critics have a slight advantage over foreigners—their intentions for criticizing the state are perceived as more positive. Despite limited direct impact on public opinion, our findings suggest that the human rights regime could benefit from involving diasporic and domestic actors in their efforts.
An Indian surgeon's perspective on management of asymptomatic gallstones
Authors: Virk Sargun , Arora Harshit , Patil Priti , Sarang Bhakti , Khajanchi Monty , Bains Lovenish , Kizhakke Deepa Veetil , Jain Samarvir , Nathani Priyansh , Dev Ya , Gadgil Anita , Roy Nobhojit
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Cholelithiasis is widely prevalent in India, with a majority of patients being asymptomatic while a small proportion experiencing mild complications. In the laparoscopic era, the rate of cholecystectomies has increased owing to early recovery and fewer complications. In asymptomatic patients, the risk of complications must be balanced against the treatment benefit. Recent guidelines suggest no prophylactic cholecystectomy in asymptomatic patients. We aimed to find out the Indian surgeons' perspective on asymptomatic gallstone management.

Methods

A cross‐sectional e‐survey was conducted of practicing surgeons, onco‐surgeons and gastrointestinal‐surgeons in India. The survey had questions regarding their perspective on laparoscopic cholecystectomy and treatment modalities in asymptomatic gallstones.

Results

A total of 196 surgeons responded to the survey. Their mean age was 42.3 years. Overall, 111 (57%) respondents worked in the private sector. Most surgeons (164) agreed that the rate of cholecystectomy has increased since the advent of laparoscopy; 137 (70%) respondents agreed that they would not operate on patients without risk factors. Common bile duct stones, chronic hemolytic diseases, transplant recipients, and diabetes mellitus were the risk factors. Majority of the participants agreed on not performing a cholecystectomy in patients with asymptomatic gallstones.

Conclusion

There exists a lack of consensus among Indian surgeons on asymptomatic gallstone management in India. Where the majority of cases are asymptomatic and do not require surgery, certain comorbidities can influence the line of treatment in individual patients. Currently, the treatment guidelines for asymptomatic patients need to be established as cholecystectomies may be overperformed due to the fear of development of complications.
Feasibility and evaluation of high‐fidelity simulation education for acute clinical toxicology
Authors: Brinkman David J. , Wackwitz Nella S. , Donker Erik , Tichelaar Jelle
Published: March 2024

To prepare medical students appropriately for the management of toxicological emergencies, we have developed a simulation‐based medical education (SBME) training in acute clinical toxicology. Our aim is to report on the feasibility, evaluation and lessons learned of this training. Since 2019, each year approximately 180 fifth‐year medical students are invited to participate in the SBME training. The training consists of an interactive lecture and two SBME stations. For each station, a team of students had to perform the primary assessment and management of an intoxicated patient. After the training, the students completed a questionnaire about their experiences and confidence in clinical toxicology. Overall, the vast majority of students agreed that the training provided a fun, interactive and stimulating way to teach about clinical toxicology. Additionally, they felt more confident regarding their skills in this area. Our pilot study shows that SBME training was well‐evaluated and feasible over a longer period.
Unveiling the influence of institutional quality on board gender diversity and corporate environmental, social, and governance disputes in China
Authors: Khalid Fahad , Naveed Khwaja , Sun Xinhui , Srivastava Mohit
Published: March 2024

This paper unravels an unprecedented interplay between board gender diversity (BGD) and corporate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disputes among Chinese A‐share‐listed nonfinancial companies from 2017 to 2021. Framed within a knowledge‐based and sensemaking perspective of institutional frameworks, the research not only illuminates the profound impact of internal (corporate governance ratings) and external (regional institutional development) institutional factors on this intricate relationship but also brings to light a paradigm‐shifting revelation. The study employed a diverse set of empirical tests, ranging from ordinary least squares regression to advanced methods such as the generalized method of moments, two‐stage least squares, and propensity score matching, providing a nuanced and comprehensive analysis. The findings highlight the pivotal role of female directors in significantly mitigating ESG disputes. A mechanism analysis further uncovers that internal and external institutional quality are potent positive moderators in shaping the BGD–ESG dispute dynamic. This research has profound implications, providing valuable insights for stakeholders, policymakers, and scholars, offering a comprehensive understanding of how gender diversity fosters sustainability while unravelling the intricate tapestry of internal and external institutional dynamics that shape ESG outcomes.
Who you know influences where you go: Intergroup contact attenuates bias in trainee teachers' school preferences
Authors: Doyle Lewis , Easterbrook Matthew J. , Tropp Linda R.
Published: March 2024

The vicious cycle of educational inequality may be maintained and perpetuated by teachers' lack of desire to work in socioeconomically deprived communities. Across two studies (Ntotal = 606), we experimentally investigated whether teachers' aversions to such settings could be mitigated by contact experiences with (a) people experiencing financial hardship and (b) children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Trainee teachers rated their levels of desire to work in schools that varied in terms of the socioeconomic backgrounds and diversity of their student populations. They also reported their contact experiences. Although, overall, teachers showed an aversion to working in a school that served a diverse and low‐income community compared to one with average student demographics, this effect was attenuated when teachers had more prior contact with both close others in financial hardship and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. These findings were replicated across both studies. Further analyses also revealed that the relation between contact and school desirability may, at least in part, be mediated by changes in teaching self‐efficacy. These findings demonstrate the potential value of teachers' contact with other groups as a method of reducing bias in education.
The utility of exome sequencing in diagnosing pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders in a highly consanguineous population
Authors: Khalaf Tamam , Al Ojaimi Mode , Saleh Dina Amin , Sulaiman Alena , Sohal Aman P. , Khan Arif , El‐Hattab Ayman W.
Published: March 2024

Exome sequencing (ES) has been utilized in diagnosing children with neurodevelopmental manifestations, this study aimed to investigate the utility of ES in children within a highly consanguineous population that presented with neurodevelopmental complaints. A retrospective chart review was performed for 405 children with neurodevelopmental complaints who have had ES and were evaluated in multiple centers in the United Arab Emirates over a four‐year period. Within the cohort of 405 children, consanguinity was reported in 35% (144/405). The primary clinical presentations were developmental delay/cognitive impairment, distinctive facial features, hypotonia, seizures, and weakness. The diagnostic yield was 57% (231/405). Novel variants were identified in 54% (125/231) of positive cases. Within the positive cases, specific treatment was available in 6% (13/231) and copy number variants (CNV) were reported in 3% (8/231) of cases. In eight children, variants in genes that have not yet been linked to human disease that could potentially be the cause of the observed phenotype “candidate genes” were identified. ES was utilized effectively within this cohort with a high diagnostic yield and through the identification of novel gene variants, CNVs, candidate genes and secondary findings as well as the alteration of the treatment plan in cases where treatment was available.
Neuromelanin‐sensitive magnetic resonance imaging: Possibilities and promises as an imaging biomarker for Parkinson's disease
Authors: Yan Yayun , Zhang Mengchao , Ren Wenhua , Zheng Xiaoqi , Chang Ying
Published: March 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is an age‐related progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by both motor and non‐motor symptoms resulting from the death of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC). The current diagnosis of PD primarily relies on motor symptoms, often leading to diagnoses in advanced stages, where a significant portion of SNpc dopamine neurons has already succumbed. Therefore, the identification of imaging biomarkers for early‐stage PD diagnosis and disease progression monitoring is imperative. Recent studies propose that neuromelanin‐sensitive magnetic resonance imaging (NM‐MRI) holds promise as an imaging biomarker. In this review, we summarize the latest findings concerning NM‐MRI characteristics at various stages in patients with PD and those with atypical parkinsonism. In conclusion, alterations in neuromelanin within the LC are associated with non‐motor symptoms and prove to be a reliable imaging biomarker in the prodromal phase of PD. Furthermore, NM‐MRI demonstrates efficacy in differentiating progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) from PD and multiple system atrophy with predominant parkinsonism. The spatial patterns of changes in the SNpc can be indicative of PD progression and aid in distinguishing between PSP and synucleinopathies. We recommend that patients with PD and individuals at risk for PD undergo regular NM‐MRI examinations. This technology holds the potential for widespread use in PD diagnosis.
Fracture behavior in blasting under different static stresses and high stress unloading
Authors: Huang Chen , Zhang Zong‐Xian , Aladejare Adeyemi , Chen Zhan , Ding Chenxi , Yang Liyun
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the effects of static stresses on the blast‐induced crack in polymethyl methacrylate specimens with an empty hole were investigated by caustic system. The propagation behavior and re‐initiation process of blast‐induced crack under initial static stress and high stress unloading were investigated. The results show that when the direction of the empty hole is perpendicular to the static stress, the static stress reduces the length of the main crack. However, when the static stress is very high, the length of main cracks does not decrease. In addition, the static stress reduces the crack velocity and dynamic stress intensity factor (DSIF) and suppresses the increase of DSIFs and crack velocity due to reflected wave. The crack arrested under high stress unloading propagates again in the later stage. Moreover, the duration of high stress unloading lasts approximately 1 ms.
The role of the specialist nurse in comprehensive care for bleeding disorders in Europe: An integrative review
Authors: Mulders Greta , Uitslager Nanda , Kavanagh Mary , Birkedal Maj Friberg , Nicolo Gabriella , Fenton Renester , Westesson Linda Myrin ,   The European Association for Haemophilia and Allied Disorders (EAHAD) Nurses Committee
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Managing bleeding disorders (BDs) is complex, requiring a comprehensive approach coordinated by a multidisciplinary team (MDT). Haemophilia nurses (HNs) play a central role in the MDT, frequently coordinating care. As novel treatments bring change to the treatment landscape, ongoing education and development is key. However, understanding of the roles and tasks of HNs is lacking.

Aim

The EAHAD Nurses Committee sought to identify and describe the roles and tasks of the European HN.

Methods

A five‐step integrative review was undertaken, including problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data synthesis and presentation. Relevant literature published from 2000 to 2022 was identified through database, hand and ancestry searching. Data were captured using extraction forms and thematically analysed.

Results

Seven hundred and seventy‐seven articles were identified; 43 were included. Five main roles were identified, with varied and overlapping associated tasks: Educator, Coordinator, Supporter, Treater and Researcher. Tasks related to education, coordination and support were most frequently described. Patient education was often ‘nurse‐led’, though education and coordination roles concerned both patients and health care practitioners (HCPs), within and beyond the MDT. The HN coordinates care and facilitates communication. Long‐term patient care relationships place HNs in a unique position to provide support. Guidelines for HN core competencies have been developed in some countries, but autonomy and practice vary.

Conclusion

As the treatment landscape changes, all five main HN roles will be impacted. Despite national variations, this review provides a baseline to anticipate educational needs to enable HNs to continue to fulfil their role.
‘ALL ABOUT MY IDEAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE’: Users, family members and experts by experience discussing a co‐designed service
Authors: Rocelli Michele , Aquili Ludovica , Giovanazzi Paolo , Puecher Andrea , Goglio Marco Maria , Faccio Elena
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Many studies have investigated patients' understandings of how to optimise mental health services. However, only a few studies in the Italian context have involved experts by experience (EbEs), who can be ex‐users, family members of ex‐users or current service collaborators. Their role is crucial in implementing collaborative service quality assessment projects.

Method

The study investigated the experience of 35 EbEs,  users, and family members who carried out a 9‐month fortnightly project aimed at imagining an ‘ideal service’. The facilitators of the discussion groups (two EbEs) were interviewed; written reports of each meeting were produced with relevant comments, notes and specific suggestions; and content analysis was applied.

Results

The most important result concerns the effectiveness of the project management method and group leadership carried out by the two EbEs. This approach allowed for complete autonomy of the work, without professional gaze or power imbalance. Also, the ideas and specific contents focused on by the two groups offer strategies to facilitate users' entry and reception in health care centres, to reduce the stigma of mental illness, to improve the centres' physical environment, to improve organisational aspects, to keep family members actively involved and to network mental health services with other territorial services.

Conclusions

EbEs have proven to be key figures in ensuring equity of role in the service co‐design process. This also concerns a context, the Italian one, where their role has not yet been recognised and legalised. Their contribution and ideas to improve services could be fundamental not only in mental health centres, but also in other health facilities, and could concern the entire service delivery process rather than being limited to quality assurance, according to a virtuous circle based on active participation and transformation of the role of users.

Patient or Public Contribution

This work resulted from close collaboration between the two EbEs who conducted the groups, users and family members, the university, and the psychiatrist in charge of the service. All of them contributed to the research. The EbEs, researchers and psychiatrist participated in the interpretation of the data and are the co‐authors of this paper.
THE INS AND OUTS OF SELLING HOUSES: UNDERSTANDING HOUSING‐MARKET VOLATILITY
Authors: Ngai L. Rachel , Sheedy Kevin D.
Published: March 2024

This article documents the role of inflows (new listings) and outflows (sales) in explaining the volatility and comovement of housing‐market variables. An “ins versus outs” decomposition shows that both flows are quantitatively important for housing‐market volatility. The correlations between sales, prices, new listings, and time‐to‐sell are stable over time, whereas the signs of their correlations with houses for sale are found to be time‐varying. A calibrated search‐and‐matching model with endogenous inflows and outflows and shocks to housing demand matches many of the stable correlations and predicts that the correlations with houses for sale depend on the source and persistence of shocks.
Traditional Chinese medicine Qingre Huoxue decoction enhances wound healing in through modulation of angiogenic and inflammatory pathways
Authors: Li Wen , Chen Yongqi , Cai Zhenguo , He Xiang , Yang Lili , Zhu Jiong , Wang Wuqing
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of Qingre Huoxue Decoction (QHD), a traditional Chinese herbal formulation, in promoting wound healing in an imiquimod‐induced murine model of psoriasis. The research was driven by the need for effective wound healing strategies in psoriatic conditions, where conventional treatments often fall short. Employing a combination of in vivo and in vitro methodologies, we assessed the effects of QHD on key factors associated with wound healing. Our results showed that QHD treatment significantly reduced the expression of angiogenic proteins HIF‐1α, FLT‐1, and VEGF, and mitigated inflammatory responses, as evidenced by the decreased levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and increased expression of IL‐10. Furthermore, QHD enhanced the expression of genes essential for wound repair. In vitro assays with HUVECs corroborated the anti‐angiogenic effects of QHD. Conclusively, the study highlights QHD's efficacy in enhancing wound healing in psoriatic conditions by modulating angiogenic and inflammatory pathways, presenting a novel therapeutic avenue in psoriasis wound management.
Enabling Students' Wellbeing in Distance Design Education
Authors: Lotz Nicole , Sippel Muriel
Published: March 2024

Understanding changes to student wellbeing on design modules in a distance higher education setting is difficult. Previous research suggested that environmental, study and skills‐related barriers impact the wellbeing of learners at a distance. This study sought to understand the experiences of barriers and what enabled distance design students’ wellbeing. It identifies avenues to balance tensions between conflicting experiences of studying design and maintaining wellbeing that our participants disclosed in a longitudinal, qualitative study using repeat interviews, experience sampling and a diary study. The findings provide insights from the learners’ perspectives. Students reported strategies on how to deal with open‐ended design projects and how to cope with feedback. They revealed how they currently seek and receive support for design work and wellbeing. We uncovered how learners keep to deadlines and how they approach social learning. The study also exposed enabling study rhythms to facilitate creative flow and how creative environments are set up in the learners’ homes. Our findings suggest that educators and designers of hybrid and distance design education should pay attention to three key aspects: dealing with uncertainty, learning satisficing and managing creative flow, to enable design students’ wellbeing.
Encounters with public and professional understandings of Down syndrome: A qualitative study of parents' experiences
Authors: Steffensen Ellen H. , Santoro Stephanie L. , Pedersen Lars H. , Vogel Ida , Lou Stina
Published: March 2024

Background

The meanings of neurodevelopmental conditions are socially and culturally defined. We explored how parents of a child with Down syndrome experienced public and professional understandings of Down syndrome.

Method

Qualitative interviews with 25 parents of a child with Down syndrome living in Denmark. From a reflexive thematic analysis, we developed themes describing understandings (i.e., attitudes or perceptions) of Down syndrome.

Results

The parents experienced that the Down syndrome diagnosis acted as a ‘label’; this had perceived positive and negative consequences for the child. The parents felt others understood Down syndrome as severe and undesirable. This attitude was tied to the existence of prenatal screening. Finally, to the parents, professional support for their child expressed an understanding of children with Down syndrome as valued individuals.

Conclusions

Parents encountered ambiguous understandings of Down syndrome. This should be recognised by professionals who may shape such understandings.
Effectiveness of family centred interventions for family caregivers: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Yu Shuanghan , Liu Yantong , Han Yujie , Zhao Wei , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2024

Aims and objectives

To examine the effectiveness of family‐centred interventions among family caregivers.

Background

Family‐centred interventions are an emerging form of intervention that can be effective at improving physical and mental health outcomes for patients and family caregivers. To date, no reviews have examined the effectiveness of family‐centred interventions for family caregivers.

Design

A systematic review, including a meta‐analysis, was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA 2020) checklist.

Methods

Seven English and two Chinese electronic databases were compressively searched from the outset to March 2023. Two researchers independently reviewed the abstracts and full texts, extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias independently by using the Cochrane ‘Risk of bias assessment tool’.

Results

This systematic review and meta‐analysis included 20 articles. The results of the meta‐analysis showed that family‐centred interventions could significantly improve caregiver burden (p=0.003), quality of life (p = 0.007), depression (p = 0.0002), and stress (p < 0.0001) but not anxiety or family functioning. According to our subgroup analysis, the family‐centred empowerment model (p = 0.009) was superior to the other family intervention (p=0.004) in reducing caregiver burden. Family‐centred interventions are more effective at reducing the burden of caregiving on family caregivers of adolescent patients (SMD=−0.79, 95% CI[−1.22,−0.36], p = 0.0003) than on adult patients (SMD=−0.37, 95% CI [−0.61,−0.12], p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Family‐centred interventions could enhance family caregivers’ burden, quality of life, stress and depression but had no significant impact on anxiety or family functioning.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Family‐centred interventions have the potential to improve the health status and caregiving burden of family caregivers. Rigorous and high‐quality evidence is needed to confirm the long‐term effects of these interventions on family caregivers.

Trial Registration Details

The protocol has been registered in the PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews (Protocol registration ID: CRD42023453607).
Salivary and serum biomarkers to evaluate psychological disorders in burning mouth syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: He Mei , Huoshen Wuda , Li Xueqing , Sun Chen
Published: March 2024

Background

Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic pain syndrome mainly characterized by an intensive burning sensation of tongue. Previous studies have suggested that saliva/serum biomarkers in burning mouth syndrome might be associated with psychological disorders. The aim of systematic review was to observe whether the biomarkers in serum/saliva could be an alternative method to evaluate the psychological disorders in patients with burning mouth syndrome.

Materials and Methods

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for papers published up to March 15, 2023. Risk of bias was measured by using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. RevMan was used for meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 467 articles were screened, which of 12 studies were included. These studies collected 43 different biomarkers in saliva and 35 in serum. Of these biomarkers, only three (cortisol, α‐amylase, and IL‐6) were analyzed in two or more studies. Only salivary cortisol levels were significantly higher in the patient group compared to the controls (Mean Difference = 1.39; 95% CI [0.80–1.97]; p < 0.001). Moreover, cortisol might be relevant to psychological scores, especially anxiety.

Conclusion

Different papers have investigated salivary and serum biomarkers in burning mouth syndrome patients with controversial results. This meta‐analysis showed that cortisol levels in saliva may be a potential biomarker to assess the psychological disorders in burning mouth syndrome patients.
Rosetta gen. nov. (Chlorophyta): Resolving the identity of red snow algal rosettes
Authors: Engstrom Casey B. , Raymond Breanna B. , Albeitshawish Joud , Bogdanovic Anastasia , Quarmby Lynne M.
Published: March 2024

Thick‐walled rosette‐like snow algae were long thought to be a life stage of various other species of snow algae. Rosette‐like cells have not been cultured, but by manually isolating cells from 38 field samples in southern British Columbia, we assigned a variety of rosette morphologies to DNA sequence. Phylogenetic analysis of Rubisco large‐subunit (rbcL) gene, ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) rRNA region, and 18S rRNA gene revealed that the rosette‐like cells form a new clade within the phylogroup Chloromonadinia. Based on these data, we designate a new genus, Rosetta, which comprises five novel species: R. castellata, R. floranivea, R. stellaria, R. rubriterra, and R. papavera. In a survey of 762 snow samples from British Columbia, we observed R. floranivea exclusively on snow overlying high‐elevation glaciers, whereas R. castellata was observed at lower elevations, near the tree line. The other three species were rarely observed. Spherical red cells enveloped in a thin translucent sac were conspecific with Rosetta, possibly a developmental stage. These results highlight the unexplored diversity among snow algae and emphasize the utility of single‐cell isolation to advance the centuries‐old problem of disentangling life stages and cryptic species.
Intramural gastric abscesses in a dog
Authors: Otero Balda I. , Augusto M. , Lassaigne C. , Maurin M. P.
Published: March 2024

A 6‐year‐old, female neutered Labrador retriever was presented with a chronic history of vomiting and anorexia. Abdominal ultrasound identified two large cavitated structures with echogenic content in the gastric fundus and pyloric region. CT revealed the intraparietal nature of these structures, one in the greater curvature and another one extending from the lesser curvature to the pyloric antrum. Surgical exploration revealed two areas of thickened gastric wall with intramural purulent material. Debridement and partial resection of the abscess (deroofing) were performed via a routine gastrotomy approach. Histopathology of a gastric wall sample revealed neutrophilic inflammation with intralesional vegetal foreign body. The presence of intralesional foreign body with a positive bacterial culture and macroscopic absence of peritonitis may suggest an intramural migrating vegetal foreign body. Gastric wall abscess should be included in a differential diagnosis in dogs with a history of chronic vomiting and the presence of gastric wall cavitated structures. Surgical debridement through a routine gastrotomy opening alleviated the clinical signs related to the intramural gastric abscesses in this dog with no recurrence at 22 months.
The effect of short‐term remote ischemic preconditioning on endothelial function of patients with chronic kidney disease: A randomized pilot study
Authors: Xu Xieguanxuan , Zhang Yu , Chen Yuhao , Yang Chen , Guo Xinru , Zhang Qiuyue , Li Yisha , Wu Jie , Cao Xueying , Chen XiangMei , Cai Guangyan
Published: March 2024

Aim

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are more susceptible to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease (CV). Remote ischemic preconditioning (rIPC) has been proven efficient in improving endothelial function and lowering the risk of CV. However, the safety and effect of rIPC on endothelial function in patients with CKD have not been effectively assessed.

Methods

45 patients with CKD (average estimated glomerular filtration rate: 48.4 mL/min/1.73 m2) were randomly allocated to either 7‐day daily upper‐arm rIPC (4 × 5 min 200 mmHg, interspaced by 5‐min reperfusion) or control (4 × 5 min 60 mmHg, interspaced by 5‐min reperfusion). Vascular endothelial function was assessed by natural log–transformed reactive hyperemia index (LnRHI) before and after a 7‐day intervention. Arterial elasticity was assessed by augmentation index (AI).

Results

The results showed that LnRHI could be improved by rIPC treatment (Pre = 0.57 ± 0.04 vs. Post = 0.67 ± 0.04, p = .001) with no changes relative to control (Pre = 0.68 ± 0.06 vs. Post = 0.64 ± 0.05, p = .470). Compared with the control group, the improvement of LnRHI was greater after rIPC treatment (rIPC vs. Control: 0.10 ± 0.03 vs. −0.04 ± 0.06, between‐group mean difference, −0.15 [95% CI, −0.27 to −0.02], p = .027), while there was no significant difference in the change of AI@75 bpm (p = .312) between the two groups.

Conclusion

RIPC is safe and well tolerated in patients with CKD. This pilot study suggests that rIPC seems to have the potential therapeutic effect to improve endothelial function. Of note, further larger trials are still warranted to confirm the efficacy of rIPC in improving endothelial function in CKD patients.

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Use of spirometry to detect airflow obstruction
Authors: Leung Chi Chiu
Published: March 2024

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Global dynamics of heterogeneous epidemic models with exponential and nonexponential latent period distributions
Authors: Zang Huiping , Lin Yi , Liu Shengqiang
Published: March 2024

Many epidemic models assume an exponential distribution for the latent stage, but this may not accurately represent reality and could impact disease transmission predictions. Previous studies for short time scale models have shown that the choice of latency distribution affects estimates of the epidemic peak, time to peak, and infection eradication time, but has little effect on the final infection size. However, it is unclear if these conclusions hold for long time scale models. To address this, we investigate the impact of different latency distributions on disease dynamics in long‐term models, comparing them with short‐term models. We propose two susceptible‐exposed‐infected‐hospitalized‐recovered () models with multiple groups, using exponential and gamma distributions for latency. We derive the basic reproduction number () for both models and prove the global stability of the equilibrium points. We conduct numerical simulations and find that the gamma distribution may lead to larger epidemic peak sizes and longer peak times compared to the exponential distribution. However, the impact of latency distribution on estimating the peak and time to peak is smaller in long‐term models than in short‐term models. Additionally, the effect on the final total infected size is negligible regardless of the time scale. Therefore, when analyzing long‐term epidemic dynamics using heterogeneity models, the choice of latency distribution does not significantly affect the results. Assuming an exponential distribution for the latency is sufficient for simplifying the model and facilitating analysis. Our study provides valuable insights for selecting appropriate mathematical models in epidemiology.
Current Controversies in Kidney Nutrition
Authors: St‐Jules David E.
Published: March 2024

Dietetic practice aims to help people modify their diet to slow disease progression and manage disease‐related complications while also meeting their nutritional and personal dietary needs. This can be challenging in people with kidney failure undergoing dialysis, particularly in our current food environment and culture. Fortunately, advancements in nutritional‐behavioral science and technology are providing new avenues and resources to help meet the challenge. However, progress is slow, and much of dietetic practice in the dialysis population still relies on the interpretation, translation, and application of low‐quality, indirect evidence. This Special Issue of Seminars in Dialysis provides readers with an update on and critical insights into some of the major issues and controversies impacting the field of kidney nutrition today.
Health systems in the COVID‐19 crises: Comparative patterns of NHS satisfaction and preferences for public health action in Scotland and England
Authors: Deeming Christopher
Published: March 2024

It is often claimed Scotland is more social democratic in outlook compared to England, if this is the case then we might expect to find differences in public attitudes towards health and social justice, reflecting the growing health policy divergence between the two nations. Comparative attitudes towards healthcare in Scotland and England are worthy of close scrutiny here, given the different reform trajectories, with the running of the Scottish NHS based on professionalism and the English NHS structure built on market‐based principles. The Scottish Government also implemented stricter lockdown restrictions compared to the UK Government in England. However, the extent to which the policy responses to the pandemic reflect different attitudes towards collective public health action in the two countries remains under‐researched. In this article, public attitudes towards health in Scotland are compared with those in England. The comparative analysis relies primarily on survey data from the International Social Survey Programme (ISSP) module on health and healthcare. This survey was fielded in Scotland and England in the autumn of 2021, during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Overall, Scotland is more solidaristic or ‘social democratic’ than England on key issues relating to public health action and social justice. The findings reveal some commonalities between the nations, confidence in the NHS during the pandemic, and a willingness to improve the health service via higher taxes for example, but also important differences in attitudes and preferences for state action exist that help set the scene for greater policy divergence in the UK.
Desafios na aplicabilidade dos modelos ontológicos de competências gerenciais em saúde: uma scoping review
Authors: Borges Fogliatto Danielle , Peres Aida Maris , Marli Aparecida Rocha de Souza  , Leticia Mara Peres  , Lapierre Judith
Published: March 2024

Objective: Identify challenges in the applicability of ontological models that represent relationships and elements of health management competencies. Methods: Scoping Review, according to Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and the guiding question: “What are the challenges in the applicability of ontological models that represent the health management competencies described in health in the literature?”. Included national and international studies, English, Portuguese and Spanish, in the time span of 2015 to 2020. Results: The search strategy was applied in eight databases; 2024 articles were found and eight were selected as the final sample. The studies highlighted the following difficulties in this theoretical framework: interpretation of complex, heterogeneous and dispersed data by health managers, lack of automation in patient monitoring, lack of training of health managers, inadequate task distribution and workload of the nursing team and also, deficiency in decision-making shared between health professionals and the patient. Conclusions: The application of ontological models in health management systems resulted in time optimization, data integration and better management decision-making in order to positively help the work of health professionals and managers.
Economía del cuidado en la lactancia materna exclusiva: una valoración del trabajo requerido, Colombia 2023.
Authors: Forero Ballesteros Luis Carlos , Forero Torres Ana Yibby
Published: March 2024

Introducción: La economía del cuidado hace referencia al trabajo no remunerado, relacionado con mantenimiento de la vivienda o los cuidados de otras personas del hogar. Dentro de estas actividades no remuneradas se puede incluir la lactancia materna como práctica de cuidado que genera bienestar.  Objetivo: El propósito del presente análisis es calcular el costo del trabajo no remunerado de las mujeres, asociado al ejercicio de la lactancia materna durante los primeros seis meses de vida de los lactantes.  Metodología: Se realizó un análisis descriptivo del costo de la lactancia materna exclusiva, con estimaciones a partir del método de costo de oportunidad, que le atribuye un valor salarial al tiempo que se tarda en hacerlo. Resultados: Se estimó que durante los primeros seis meses (lactancia exclusiva) el costo del tiempo dedicado a la lactancia materna fue en promedio de $3 430 270 pesos (797,68 USD), con un rango según los escenarios propuestos entre $3 018 149 pesos (701,85 USD) y $4 209 826 pesos (978,96 USD), la diferencia más alta entre los valores se encontró en el segundo y tercer mes de lactancia (21,53 %) y la menor diferencia del tercer al cuarto mes (10,94 %). Conclusiones: Los resultados permitieron otorgan un valor al tiempo dedicado a la lactancia que represento entre tres y cuatro veces el Salario Mínimo Mensual Legal Vigente en Colombia y aunque la práctica de la lactancia Materna es un proceso en el que se pretende la participación de la familia, es biológicamente ejercida por la mujer.
Hierarchical Lateral Planning With Minimum Curvature Peak for Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Shan Zitong , Zhao Jian , Zhao Yang , Ge Linhe , Zhong Shouren , Zhu Bing
Published: March 2024

This study focuses on the lateral safety of autonomous vehicles. The aim is to provide greater safety margins for the motion controller under hazardous conditions by improving the planning methods. The proposed lateral planning method employs a hierarchical structure. First, a graph search method that considers road curvature is presented. This method benefits from the design of jump nodes and can generate a safe corridor in real-time by backtracking. Next, a concise and effective optimization problem is constructed in the Frenet frame. It is designed to optimize the path by incorporating the peak, integral, and differential of curvature into the objective function. By solving this problem using CasADi, the path within the safe corridor is obtained. Finally, the proposed planning method is combined with a model predictive motion controller and tested through simulation and experimentation on a real vehicle platform. This planning method has good scalability, adaptability, and real-time performance. Simulation and experimental results show that this method can help avoid exceeding lateral limits of road surface friction, improve path-following accuracy, and enhance the safety of autonomous vehicles in dangerous conditions.