bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sports in principles of economics textbooks
Authors: Scott John , Cano Santiago
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to inform readers who are interested in textbooks, sports and sports economics, but especially professors who teach sports economics, about the coverage of sports in principles of economics textbooks.

Design/methodology/approach

The data in the paper consist of the 130 sections on sports from twenty-one principles of economics textbooks. The paper illuminates the sections using numerous quotations and in-text references. The paper details the number of sections devoted to each sport, economic concepts they illuminate and how the text covers topics such as league rules, broadcast revenues and women in sports.

Findings

The paper finds that the 21 textbook authors devote an average of 934 words in an average of 6.2 sections of text to 11 sports. Sections of text vary from one sentence to lengthy discussions of topics such as increased salaries due to technological advances in broadcasting, antitrust cases, the gender pay gap and bargaining between leagues and players' unions. The authors refer to five published research papers on sports economics, two quantitative books, two quantitative articles in the popular press and one nonquantitative nonfiction book.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides data to researchers who study sports regarding topics that students are being taught in economics texts. It is a potential tool for connecting their areas of research to the university experience.

Practical implications

Sports economics professors, and other professors, may enhance student interest by a choice of text for their principles classes.

Social implications

Sports coverage in principles texts illuminates topics such as the effect of technology on income distribution, the morality of paying college athletes, the interaction of the legal system and markets and the gender gap.

Originality/value

No other publicly referenced paper details the use of sports in principles textbooks.
Matching supply chain management challenges with blockchain applications
Authors: Berneis Moritz , Winkler Herwig
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the potential of blockchain technology in the field of supply chain management (SCM). The research is motivated by the emerging significance of blockchain as a disruptive technology that can potentially address a range of challenges faced by SCM professionals globally.

Design/methodology/approach

In our approach, this paper utilized a knock-out criteria approach to break down 150 identified challenges in SCM to a more manageable number of 12. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was then used to prioritize these challenges in order of their relative importance and suitability for resolution through blockchain.

Findings

The analysis identified key challenges to be addressed by blockchain technology in SCM. Most notably, it highlighted concerns related to price stability and global financial flows, which closely intertwine. Another significant group of issues pertains to tracking, tracing and the demonstration of sustainability, thus suggesting a substantial potential for blockchain application in these areas. The fifth notable challenge revolves around establishing ownership rights over digital assets or software.

Originality/value

This study identified key challenges in SCM with significant potential for blockchain intervention including price stability, global financial flows, tracking, tracing and the establishment of digital asset ownership. Research gaps exist despite notable progress in applications such as inflation control and tracking – especially in areas like ownership rights and e-commerce. The findings indicate that blockchain has the potential to address SCM challenges and that further exploration and implementation are necessary.
Residential medication management reviews: a call for improved collaboration and systems integration in aged care
Authors: Richardson Heather , Payne Angela , Richardson Emily , Oo Myint , Weir Mandy , Byrne Amy-Louise , Le Lagadec Danielle , Hayman Melanie
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Residential Medication Management Reviews (RMMR) are a key component of safe, high-quality aged care service delivery. The RMMR is an interdisciplinary approach to medication management that relies on collaboration, communication and integration of systems. Acting as an improvement opportunity, the purpose of this paper is to present findings from a regional study, aimed at assessing the impact of RMMR on falls and hospital admissions and identifies barriers to impactful research in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-year retrospective quantitative longitudinal practice audit was conducted in a regional state-managed high-care residential facility in Queensland, Australia. Data was collected pre-RMMR and six months post-RMMR.

Findings

The data collected was insufficient to achieve statistical significance or demonstrate the impact of RMMR on health outcomes. Factors impeding the research included limited ability to collect the data due to the lack of integration of information systems and limited stakeholder engagement resulting in poor recruitment. This highlights the need for improvement in RMMR processes and practices, and indeed wider research collaboration in the aged care sector.

Research limitations/implications

Thís paper acts as a call to action to improve research and interprofessional collaboration in Australian aged care.

Originality/value

The aged care industry needs high-quality research to drive practice improvement and collaborative care and service delivery. This paper advocates for improvements in the aged care sector with respect to research engagement and communication pathways between service providers. Advancement in systems integration for information sharing, recruitment of participants and stakeholder engagement will support evidence-based practice and process change.
Erythroderma in the elderly
Authors: Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: November 2024

Erythroderma is the end‐stage condition caused by various inflammatory diseases, presenting with widespread generalized coalesced erythema on the trunk and extremities. Erythroderma is not a disease itself, but rather is a symptom expressing erythrodermic condition, which is frequently associated with inguinal lymphadenopathy, chills, and mild fever. The clinical characteristics include sparing the folds of the trunk and extremities (deck‐chair sign), and cobblestone‐like disseminated grouping prurigo; however, the deck‐chair sign is not specific to papulo‐erythroderma (Ofuji disease). Erythroderma is induced by various causes, such as eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, drug eruption, lymphoma, lichen planus, pityriasis rubra pilaris, autoimmune bullous diseases, graft‐versus‐host disease, dermatomyositis, internal malignancy, and others. By contrast, it is not uncommon for even thorough investigations to often fail to identify any significant underlying or occult diseases. Such cases are often diagnosed as idiopathic erythroderma. In elderly cases, some regard erythroderma as late‐onset atopic dermatitis, even if the patient does not have a history of childhood atopic dermatitis, while others consider it as a distinct condition with immune responses similar to atopic dermatitis. The etiology of erythroderma is suggested to be a Th2‐dominant condition with IL‐4/IL‐13 playing a central role, suggesting that therapies targeting those Th2 molecules may result in sufficient effects. In this review, the characteristics of erythroderma in the elderly and new therapeutic approaches are discussed.
Landscape diversity, habitat connectivity, age and size determine the conservation value of limestone quarries for diverse wild bee communities
Authors: Kirsch Felix , Hass Annika , Alfert Thomas , Westphal Catrin
Published: November 2024

Abandoned and even active limestone quarries (excavation sites) can represent important secondary habitats for many species, including wild bees, associated with dry grasslands, which are threatened biodiversity hotspots in Europe. However, is not well understood how interactions between local habitat and landscape characteristics influence the value of limestone quarries for wild bees and how this could guide conservation schemes.

We studied how wild bee communities in limestone quarries are affected by landscape variables (connectivity to neighbouring dry grasslands, landscape diversity), local quarry characteristics (area, age, woody vegetation cover, flowering plant species) and their interactions. We surveyed bee communities during 208 transects in 19 quarries in southern Lower Saxony, Germany.

In total, we recorded 114 bee species (2360 individuals), including 35 endangered species. High flowering plant species richness positively affected bee abundance and richness. Large quarry area was important for determining the presence of endangered bee species. High levels of woody vegetation cover had a negative effect on bee abundance and richness. Bee abundance and richness can increase with quarry age, but only at sites with moderate woody vegetation cover.

We found potentially positive interactions between quarry age and landscape diversity and/or habitat connectivity to neighbouring dry grasslands. In particular, high habitat connectivity ensured stable richness of endangered species in old quarries.

Synthesis and applications. Observed negative effects of high woody vegetation cover on bee communities highlight the importance of local management to reduce shrub encroachment and reset successional processes in limestone quarries. Local management is particularly important in old quarries of great ecological value, where the adverse impact of high woody vegetation cover on wild bees appears to be most severe. Large and old quarries with high connectivity to neighbouring dry grasslands are especially valuable for endangered bee species. Therefore, landscape‐scale restoration and conservation of dry grasslands is the most promising approach to promote endangered bee species through enhanced habitat connectivity.
Detection of low‐level fentanyl concentrations in mixtures of cocaine, MDMA, methamphetamine, and caffeine via surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Muneer Saiqa , Smith Matthew , Bazley Mikaela M. , Cozzolino Daniel , Blanchfield Joanne T.
Published: November 2024

Surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was utilized to measure low‐level fentanyl concentrations mixed in common cutting agents, cocaine, 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), methamphetamine, and caffeine. Mixtures were prepared with a fentanyl concentration range of 0–339 μM. Data was initially analyzed by plotting the area of a diagnostic peak (1026 cm−1) against concentration to generate a calibration model. This method was successful with fentanyl/MDMA samples (LOD 0.04 μM) but not for the other mixtures. A chemometric approach was then employed. The data was evaluated using principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares (PLS1) regression, and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The LDA model was used to classify samples into one of three designated concentration ranges, low = 0–0.4 mM, medium = 0.4–14 mM, or high >14 mM, with fentanyl concentrations correctly classified with greater than 85% accuracy. This model was then validated using a series of “blind” fentanyl mixtures and these unknown samples were assigned to the correct concentration range with an accuracy >95%. The PLS1 model failed to provide accurate quantitative assignments for the samples but did provide an accurate prediction for the presence or absence of fentanyl. The combination of the two models enabled accurate quantitative assignment of fentanyl in binary mixtures. This work establishes a proof of concept, indicating a larger sample size could generate a more accurate model. It demonstrates that samples, containing variable, low concentrations of fentanyl, can be accurately quantified, using SERS.
Air DNA forensics: Novel air collection method investigations for human DNA identification
Authors: Bibbo Emily , Taylor Duncan , van Oorschot Roland A. H. , Goray Mariya
Published: November 2024

Modern techniques can generate highly discriminatory DNA profiles from minuscule biological samples, providing valuable information in criminal investigations and court proceedings. However, trace and touch DNA samples, due to their nature, often have lower success rates than other biological materials, such as blood. Further, forensically aware criminals can utilize gloves and meticulously clean the crime scene to remove DNA traces of themselves from contacted surfaces. Air sampling offers a novel approach to the collection of human DNA that has the potential to bypass some of these issues. This study reports on the results of research into the prevalence and persistence of human DNA in the air. The ability to collect human DNA from the air was investigated with the use of an AirPrep Cub Sampler ACD220 in different spaces, with and without the presence of individuals for various durations of sample collection. Results of this study demonstrate that level of occupation and sampling duration each have an influence on quantity and quality of DNA recovered from the air whereas the effects of orientation and distance of participants from the collection device as well as sequence of occupation remain unclear and require further investigation.
Single‐nucleus RNA sequencing reveals midgut cellular heterogeneity and transcriptional profiles in Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus infection
Authors: Fei Shigang , Awais Mian Muhammad , Zou Jinglei , Xia Junming , Wang Yeyuan , Kong Yibing , Feng Min , Sun Jingchen
Published: November 2024

The gut is not only used by insects as an organ for the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients but also as an important barrier against the invasion and proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus (BmCPV), an insect‐specific virus, predominantly colonizes the midgut epithelial cells of the silkworm, thereby jeopardizing its normal growth. However, there is limited knowledge of the cellular immune responses to viral infection and whether the infection is promoted or inhibited by different types of cells in the silkworm midgut. In this study, we used single‐nucleus RNA sequencing to identify representative enteroendocrine cells, enterocytes, and muscle cell types in the silkworm midgut. In addition, by analyzing the transcriptional profiles of various subpopulations in the infected and uninfected groups, we found that BmCPV infection suppresses the response of the antiviral pathways and induces the expression of BmHSP70, which plays a role in promoting BmCPV replication. However, certain immune genes in the midgut of the silkworm, such as BmLebocin3, were induced upon viral infection, and downregulation of BmLEB3 using RNA interference promoted BmCPV replication in the midgut of B. mori. These results suggest that viral immune evasion and active host resistance coexist in BmCPV‐infected silkworms. We reveal the richness of cellular diversity in the midgut of B. mori larvae by single‐nucleus RNA sequencing analysis and provide new insights into the complex interactions between the host and the virus at the single‐cell level.
Safety outcomes of tocilizumab and tofacitinib treatment for rheumatoid arthritis: Target trial emulation
Authors: Fang Yao‐Fan , Chang Shu‐Hao , Kuo Chang‐Fu , See Lai‐Chu
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Biological disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs have been the primary treatment option for moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Taiwan since 2010. Tocilizumab is an interleukin‐6 receptor inhibitor, whereas tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor. The two medications were indicated to treat RA by direct and indirect inhibition of interleukin‐6 cytokine. We compared the safety outcomes of tocilizumab and tofacitinib in patients with RA in real‐world clinical settings, following the 7 key components of target trial emulation (TTE).

Methods

The data source was the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Patients with RA between 2010 and 2018 were eligible and assigned to either tocilizumab or tofacitinib based on their first prescription of these two medications. The index date was set as the first prescription date of either study medication. Propensity score stabilized weighting (PSSW) was used to balance the characteristics between the two medication groups. The incidences of safety outcomes were all‐cause mortality, cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke, venous thrombosis events, tuberculosis, joint replacement events, and herpes zoster infection. The intention‐to‐treat (ITT) effect was commenced from the index date until the study outcomes, independently, 3 years, withdrawal, or December 31, 2021, whichever occurred first. For the per‐protocol (PP) effect, patients were required to maintain the same medical group during the entire follow‐up period.

Results

A total of 2125 patients with RA who were prescribed tocilizumab (n = 844) or tofacitinib (n = 1281) were included in this study. The mean follow‐up duration was 2.78 years in the tocilizumab group and 2.83 years in the tofacitinib group. For ITT, the sample sizes were 721 and 1196 for the tocilizumab and tofacitinib, respectively, after PSSW. A substantially lower incidence rate of herpes zoster infection (per 100 patient‐years) was observed in the tocilizumab group (3.67) than in the tofacitinib group (7.61), with a hazard ratio of 0.48 (95%CI =0.37–0.63; p < .0001). All‐cause mortality, cancer, coronary heart disease, stroke, total hip replacement, and tuberculosis were similar between the two medication groups. For PP, the sample sizes were 619 and 1085 for the tocilizumab and tofacitinib, respectively, after PSSW. The results of the PP analysis were similar to those of the ITT analysis.

Conclusions

Tocilizumab and tofacitinib act along the same inflammatory pathway. A lower herpes zoster incident rate was observed in the tocilizumab group than in the tofacitinib group. The incidence rates of other safety concerns and mortality rates were comparable in both groups of patients with RA treated in real‐world settings.
Connecting the dots: NETosis and the periodontitis‐rheumatoid arthritis nexus
Authors: Shahbaz Maliha , Al‐Maleki Anis Rageh , Cheah Chia Wei , Aziz Jazli , Bartold Peter Mark , Vaithilingam Rathna Devi
Published: November 2024

Periodontitis (PD) is characterized by the host's inflammatory responses to microbial dental biofilm dysbiosis, potentially resulting in tooth loss if left untreated. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease leading to synovial inflammation and destruction of joint cartilage and bone. The suggested association between PD and RA is based on the potential of chronic inflammation present in periodontitis, which could induce alterations in proteins through post‐translational modifications, leading to the formation of citrullinated and carbamylated protein antigens. Antibodies directed against these antigens can serve as biomarkers for the underlying immunological processes in RA. Recent studies have also focused on bacterial proteolytic enzymes released from PD‐associated bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, which are also sources of these antibodies. Chronic inflammation in PD causes increased levels of inflammatory cytokines (interferon‐α, interleukins‐6 and 8, tumor necrosis factor‐α) and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The oral microbiota in PD is also associated with the release of NETs (a process known as NETosis). Elevated NET levels are a source of citrullinated and carbamylated proteins which highlights their role in an individual's risk of developing RA (pre‐RA individuals) and the progression of chronic RA. This narrative review describes periodontitis and the dysbiotic subgingival microbiota and its role in NETosis as risk factors for inducing early RA and the prospects of identifying pre‐RA individuals and seronegative RA patients with these risk factors.
Past and recent drivers of extinction risk in endemic New Zealand birds
Authors: Garcia‐R J. C. , Cimatti M. , Di Marco M.
Published: November 2024

Land‐cover change is a major driver of species extinction risk and the overarching loss of biodiversity. However, the impact of such change is nuanced, varying among species due to the mediation of life‐history traits and the timing of land transformation. While diverse studies have pinpointed ecological and life‐history attributes linked to the decline of bird species, the combined effects of past and recent land‐cover change often present a complex picture. In this study, we undertook a modelling approach to assess extinction risk in New Zealand's endemic birds based on life‐history traits and past (1996–2008) and recent (2008–2018) land‐cover change. Our results suggested specific variables driving extinction risk in endemic New Zealand birds. Notably, incubation length emerged as the most influential factor, trailed by past land‐cover change, body size and clutch size. This indicates that past land‐cover change in combination with large body sizes and slow life histories, characterized by low fecundity and extended incubation periods, collectively elevates the extinction risk of endemic birds in New Zealand. These results shed light on the conservation priorities for species with specific biological traits potentially exposed to the negative effects of land‐cover change.
Implementation of trans‐cystic biliary stenting during acute cholecystectomy to facilitate elective ERCP: a quality improvement initiative
Authors: Bull Nicholas , Ashton Prue , Sutherland Aleisha , Brown Lisa , Thomson Benjamin , Loveday Benjamin P. T.
Published: November 2024

Background

A predominantly endoscopic approach for acute admissions with choledocholithiasis with a gallbladder in situ (CGIS) resulted in prolonged hospital length of stay due to delays at investigation and treatment junctures. We initiated a quality improvement program of trans‐cystic biliary stenting to facilitate efficient patient progress to acute cholecystectomy and outpatient ERCP if required.

Methods

We utilized implementation frameworks with regular re‐assessment for this quality improvement project. Patients who required both ERCP and cholecystectomy for management of CGIS were identified for comparison of total length of stay before and after implementation. The outcomes for stent insertion and ERCP were also collected for analysis.

Results

Twenty‐three trans‐cystic stents were attempted with 22 inserted successfully. The median total length of stay for all patients requiring both ERCP and cholecystectomy for management of CGIS was shorter compared to 6 months prior to implementation (5 days (range 3–18) vs. 6 days (range 5–17); P = 0.009). The median stenting time was 14 min (range 9–48). After stent insertion, more ERCPs were performed as day‐only outpatient cases (20/23 (87.0%) vs. 6/44 (13.6%) P < 0.001). The rate of pancreatic duct wire cannulation at ERCP was also lower (1/23 (4.3%) vs. 18/44 (40.9%); P = 0.002). No complications of stent insertion or ERCP were recorded in the study cohort.

Conclusion

Implementation of trans‐cystic stents can lead to reductions in total hospital length of stay and improve ERCP processes. Our experience suggests that surgical initiatives can be successfully added to routine practice by establishing a project team and applying quality improvement principles.
Botulinum toxin A for the treatment of neurogenic bladder in children: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: He Guorong , Shen Nan , Feng Shaoguang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the current evidence on the effectiveness of botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) intradetrusor injections in paediatric NB patients who are resistant to antimuscarinic treatments.

Methods

A study was carried out on PubMed, Medline, and Embase with the search terms: (‘neurogenic bladder’ OR ‘myelomeningocele’) AND ‘toxin’ AND (‘children’ OR ‘paediatric’). The PICOS framework guided the search strategy and selection of studies in line with the PRISMA guidelines. Research involving original data that examined BTX‐A in paediatric patients with NB was included. Studies were independently chosen and data were extracted by two reviewers.

Results

Nineteen studies (one randomized controlled trial, six prospective studies, and 12 retrospective studies) that investigated the clinical application of BTX‐A injections in children with NB were identified. None of the studies compared BTX‐A to a placebo, and most lacked a control group. Results showed that maximal cystometric capacity increased by an average of 97.7 mL (34.1–162% increase) (95% confidence interval [CI] 59.6 to 135.8), while maximal detrusor pressure decreased by 25.2 cm H2O (95% CI −39.7 to −10.7). Bladder compliance improved by 5.3 mL/cm H2O (95% CI 2.9 to 7.8). After treatment, the average incontinence resolution rate among patients was 73.4%. Urinary tract infections were reported by 77 patients (13.6%).

Conclusions

BTX‐A administered intradetrusorally enhances cystometric capacity, compliance, and maximum neurogenic detrusor overactivity in paediatric patients suffering from neurogenic bladder. Nonetheless, this conclusion lacks support from studies with a high level of evidence.
May the indication for a previous cesarean section affect the outcome at trial of labor in women with induction of labor? A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Frykman Joanna , Nilsson Emelie , Wiberg‐Itzel Eva , Wallstrom Tove
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Cesarean sections are increasing worldwide and are associated with altered risks of complications for both mother and child. Vaginal birth after cesarean section is associated with lower maternal and neonatal morbidity than in repeat cesarean section. Only a few studies have considered the indication for the previous cesarean section to be of importance for the outcome of subsequent labor. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the indication for a previous cesarean section affects the outcomes at a subsequent delivery in women with induction of labor.

Material and Methods

This retrospective cohort study of the four largest delivery units in Stockholm during 2012–2015 included 1150 women with one previous cesarean section with induction of labor. Inclusion criteria: women with induced labor and a previous cesarean section, singleton pregnancy, cephalic presentation, gestational age of ≥34 weeks. The women were grouped by indication for the previous cesarean section. Primary outcome: mode of delivery (vaginal birth after previous cesarean section or repeat cesarean section). Secondary outcomes: induction to delivery time, postpartum hemorrhage, uterine rupture. Neonatal outcomes: birth weight, Apgar score <7, arterial umbilical cord blood gas pH <7.0.

Results

Our study found that the indication of labor dystocia at the previous cesarean section, increased the risk of repeat cesarean section (aOR 5.35; 95% CI: 1.64–17.50) in women with induction of labor. Other risk factors for repeat cesarean section were birth weight >4000 g, maternal BMI ≥30 or if vaginal prostaglandin was used as the method for induction of labor. A previous vaginal delivery and use of oxytocin increased the chance of a vaginal delivery in this group of women.

Conclusions

Our study showed that the indication for the previous cesarean section affects the outcome in the subsequent delivery in women with induction of labor. If the indication for the previous cesarean section was labor dystocia, the risk of repeat cesarean section was increased.
Applying machine learning to understand the role of social–emotional skills on subjective well‐being and physical health
Authors: Meng Han , He Shiyu , Guo Jiesi , Wang Huiru , Tang Xin
Published: November 2024

Social–emotional skills are vital for individual development, yet research on which skills most effectively promote students' mental and physical health, particularly from a global perspective, remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by identifying the most important social–emotional skills using global data and machine learning approaches. Data from 61,585 students across nine countries, drawn from the OECD Social–Emotional Skills Survey, were analyzed (NChina = 7246, NFinland = 5482, NColombia = 13,528, NCanada = 7246, NRussia =6434, NTurkey = 5482, NSouth Korea = 7246, NPortugal=6434, and NUSA=6434). Six machine learning techniques—including Random Forest, Logistic Regression, AdaBoost, LightGBM, Artificial Neural Networks, and Support Vector Machines—were employed to identify critical social–emotional skills. The results indicated that the Random Forest algorithm performed best in the prediction models. After controlling for demographic variables, optimism, energy, and stress resistance were identified as the top three social–emotional skills contributing to both subjective well‐being and physical health. Additionally, sociability and trust were found to be the fourth most important skills for well‐being and physical health, respectively. These findings have significant implications for designing tailored interventions and training programs that enhance students' social–emotional skills and overall health.
Meta‐Analysis: Prevalence of Frailty and Associated Adverse Events in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Carbery Isabel , Todd Oliver , Hale Matthew , Black Christopher J. , Clegg Andrew , Selinger Christian P.
Published: November 2024

Background

The number of adults aged over 60 years with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing. Frailty, rather than chronological age, may be a better predictor of adverse health outcomes.

Aims

To summarise current knowledge about frailty in adults with IBD including the prevalence and associations of frailty and IBD‐related adverse outcomes.

Methods

We performed an electronic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and EMBASE Classic databases using search terms for IBD and frailty from inception to 14 February 2024. All studies involving adults aged ≥ 16 with a confirmed diagnosis of IBD that included a frailty assessment were eligible for inclusion.

Results

We included 23 observational studies involving 1,893,448 adults. Risk of bias was low for 18 studies and moderate for five. Twelve methods of frailty assessment were used, the most common being the Hospital Frailty Risk Score. Pooled prevalence of frailty in IBD patients was 18% (95% confidence interval (CI) 12.4%–25.6%). Meta‐analysis of unadjusted events data demonstrated that frailty increased the risk of infection‐related admissions following treatment in two studies (relative risk (RR) 1.9; 95% CI 1.2–3.0), post‐operative morbidity in three (RR 2.0; 95% CI 1.4–2.7) and mortality in seven (RR 4.3; 95% CI 2.6–7.4).

Conclusions

Frailty is common in patients with IBD and is associated with IBD‐related adverse outcomes including infection‐related admissions following treatment, post‐operative morbidity and death. Future work should focus on developing risk assessment tools to better support decision making for older people with frailty and IBD.
Dancing in the archive: Bodily encounters, memory, and more‐than‐representational participatory historical geographies
Authors: Thompson Lucy
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the potential of participatory methods and practices to address the methodological difficulties surrounding the historical geographies of dance, and moving bodies, within archival research. Dance has long challenged traditional notions of the ‘archive’. While non‐representational cultural geographers have privileged dance's ability to generate affect and embodied expression, historical geographers have predominantly struggled to engage with moving bodies through traditionally ‘disembodied’ archives. Ephemeral and embodied, dance escapes conventional historical documentation; this methodological challenge demands a more creative, participatory, and more‐than‐representational approach to historical geography and its privileging of the ‘archive’. Focusing on tap dance and its circum‐Atlantic performance, this paper will explore how bodily encounters with and within the archive can lead to new research questions, through contemporary embodied participation in creative practices. By combining participatory approaches with more‐than‐representational historical geographies, it is possible to reconcile the history and politics of dancing bodies with corporeal and affective dimensions of the past. This dual approach demands working with creative communities as a researcher, in the past and the present, to draw out previously marginalised voices. This paper discusses three specific methods: oral histories and records of lived experiences; approaching the ‘body’ as an archive; and fostering public historical geographies, including walking tours, memorials, and festival participation. The paper finally considers how these participatory approaches work to build memory, community, and place‐making through shared heritage.
Validating the Quality Maternal and Newborn Care Framework Index: A Global Tool for Quality‐of‐Care Evaluations
Authors: Symon Andrew , Mortensen Berit , Pripp Are Hugo , Chhugani Manju , Adjorlolo Samuel , Badzi Caroline , Kharb Renu , Prussing Elysse , McFadden Alison , Gray Nicola M. , Cummins Allison
Published: November 2024

Background

Quality maternity care is known to improve a range of maternal and neonatal outcomes. The Lancet Series on Midwifery's Quality Maternal and Newborn Care (QMNC) Framework is a high‐level synthesis of the global evidence on quality maternity care. Initial qualitative work demonstrated the Framework's adaptability in evaluating service user and provider perceptions of the quality of maternity care. However, evaluating services at scale requires a survey instrument. This paper reports the validation of the QMNC Framework index (QMNCFi), a five‐part survey for the evaluation of maternity care across diverse settings.

Methods

International online English language survey of women who had given birth in the previous year in Australia, Ghana, India and the United Kingdom (UK). It was distributed through service user networks (UK and Australia) and at postnatal clinics (Ghana and India). All forms were completed online. Test–retest was conducted to assess reliability.

Results

Five hundred and forty mothers completed the survey (Australia 136; Ghana 131; India 153; UK 120). Construct validity: Cronbach's α in 12 of the survey's 13 sections ranged from 0.795 to 0.986; for the remaining section the alpha was 0.594. Reliability: 55 participants completed the QMNCFi a second time. Intraclass correlation coefficient results ranged from 0.657 to 0.939 across the 13 sections. Field researchers in Ghana and India reported that the survey was easily understood and completed.

Conclusion

This survey has shown that, across diverse contexts, the QMNCFi is a valid, reliable, and comprehensive tool for measuring service user perceptions of the quality of care over time.
Enhancing Perinatal Cannabis Use Counseling: Insights From Taiwan's Addiction Treatment Practice
Authors: Tsai Ya‐Yun , Wei Lien‐Chung
Published: November 2024

This letter responds to Cernat et al.'s study on counseling about cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation, drawing parallels with addiction treatment practices in Taiwan. We highlight the importance of open, non‐judgmental approaches and harm reduction strategies in counseling pregnant women with substance use disorders. Our experience at a psychiatric center in Taiwan emphasizes the need for continuous counseling throughout pregnancy and postpartum, particularly given the observed increase in cannabis use among new mothers. We support the study's emphasis on exploring patients' perceived benefits from cannabis use and addressing underlying reasons for use. By integrating insights from qualitative studies on patient perspectives, we have improved patient engagement and outcomes in our practice. This commentary underscores the global relevance of the study's findings and calls for continued research to bridge the gap between clinician and patient experiences in perinatal cannabis use counseling.
Genetic predisposition to vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia
Authors: Arnold Donald M. , Paré Guillaume , Nazy Ishac
Published: November 2024

Vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare prothrombotic disorder with a unique clonality‐restricted immunological profile. The study by Petito and Bury et al. provides insight into the role of HLA polymorphisms and an inherent predisposition to VITT.

Commentary on: Petito et al. Association of human leucocyte antigen loci with vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia: Potential role of the interaction between platelet factor 4‐derived peptides and MHC‐II. Br J Haematol 2025; 206:290‐295.
Development of eodiscinid trilobites
Authors: Dai Tao , Zhang Xingliang
Published: November 2024

A comprehensive review of a full developmental sequence of eodiscinid trilobites reported in recent decades from Cambrian Series 2 and 3 strata is presented. These mostly articulated specimens exhibit detailed morphologies with preservation of even delicate structures at different growth stages, such as the bacculae, axial pores, spine pores, pygidial marginal spines and line coaptative structures. Their trunk segmentation schedules displayed a consistent developmental mode in segment generation and liberation, that is tagmosis and somitogenesis occurred heterochronously after each moulting event, providing clues regarding the potential developmental strategy in isopygous and even macropygous trilobites. The fact that the rate of segmentation obviously exceeds that of articulation results in a seemingly prolonged process of the formation of thoracic segments, which might explain why eodiscinid trilobites have a fixed and limited number of thoracic segments. In addition, the relationship between enrollment mechanism and trunk segmentation during eodiscinid ontogeny confirms this highly unusual growth pattern among the Trilobita, revealing why these early‐diverging trilobites controlled the rate of segment increase and release during their life cycles, and is thus of interest with regard to the evolution of arthropod body patterning.
Effect of the National Enhanced Service for weight management on the content of annual review consultations for patients living with obesity and hypertension and/or diabetes
Authors: Haffner Stella J. P. , Mounsey Sarah , Begh Rachna , Hajizadeh Anisa , Hobson Alice E. , Doody Paul , Albury Charlotte , Mara Suzanne , Heath Laura , McPherson Kayley , Jebb Susan A. , Aveyard Paul
Published: November 2024

Guidelines specify that clinicians should support patients living with obesity by referring to weight management programmes (WMPs), but clinicians do so infrequently. To provide additional support to patients living with obesity and weight‐related conditions, the UK government instated the National Enhanced Service (NES) for weight management in England, including a reimbursement to general practices for referring eligible patients to WMPs. To assess the impact of the NES on conversations regarding weight and relevant behavioural risk factors in primary care consultations we recruited 11 medical practices in England where the NES was operating and six comparator practices from Scotland and Wales where the NES was not implemented. Clinicians audio‐recorded annual review appointments of patients living with obesity and hypertension and/or diabetes. The content of these consultations was synthesised using quantitative content analysis. Consultations with 92 patients were analysed: 58 in England and 34 in Scotland and Wales. No difference was found between the NES sites (England) and non‐NES sites (Scotland and Wales) in the proportion of referrals made to WMPs. Clinicians in England weighed patients and took other body measurements more often, mentioned body mass index more often, and had more detailed discussions about patients' diets, but there was no evidence that they differed in their discussion of WMPs or other modifiable risk factors. We found no strong evidence that the NES affected how clinicians addressed weight management or related behavioural risk factors within annual review consultations for patients living with obesity and hypertension and/or diabetes.
Private protected areas and ecological connectivity in Chile
Authors: Escobar Jackson Alvaro F. , Fuller Richard A.
Published: November 2024

Species extinction rates have accelerated despite the global growth of the protected area estate, and maintaining or restoring ecological connectivity across landscapes is a major challenge in conservation. To address shortfalls in statutory protected areas, the designation of private protected areas (PPA) has been encouraged. Here we assess the level of ecological connectivity in the National System of Protected Areas in Chile (SNASPE) and measure the contribution of PPAs to the connectivity of the system, using novel indicators derived from landscape ecology. In so doing, we demonstrate how countries could report progress towards achieving connectivity among protected areas, using three complementary indicators. Our results show that while SNASPE currently has a high level of ecological connectivity, it varies substantially from region to region, with more protected and connected land needed to enhance connectivity. When PPAs are considered alongside statutory protected areas, connectivity is improved slightly, but still falls well short of meaningful levels. We therefore conclude that substantial expansion of the formal protected area network in Chile needs to happen, guided by a scientific and systematic process that enables the strategic designation of new PAs that enhance the performance of the current PA system and achieves international conservation goals. Additionally, new approaches and frameworks to recognize and manage land outside protected areas for connectivity and other ecosystem services are required.
Interventions in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the pre‐pregnancy, pregnancy and postpartum periods to optimise care and health outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Gunabalasingam Sowmiya , Kyrka Artemis , Hopkins Lily , Lebrett Rivka , Dyer Eleanor , Forde Rita , Heslehurst Nicola , Meek Claire L. , Schoenaker Danielle A. J. M. , Flynn Angela C. , White Sara L.
Published: November 2024

Aims

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition affecting increasing numbers of women of reproductive age. Recent UK data show more severe adverse offspring outcomes (stillbirth, neonatal death) than in infants of those with Type 1 diabetes. This systematic review aimed to evaluate randomised controlled trials (RCTs) undertaken in the pre‐pregnancy, pregnancy and the postpartum periods in women with Type 2 diabetes, to optimise care and health outcomes.

Methods

Six electronic databases were searched for eligible studies from January 2000 to September 2023; eligibility included RCTs of behavioural components, supplementation, pharmacotherapy and/or medical devices. Studies were screened in duplicate, and data were extracted on outcomes including behavioural, anthropometry, clinical measures and maternal and offspring outcomes. A narrative synthesis was performed.

Results

Eleven trials (12 papers) were included (total 1356 women with Type 2 diabetes, n = 25–502). Ten interventions were conducted in pregnancy, and one in the postpartum period. No pre‐pregnancy RCTs were identified. Interventions included pharmacotherapies and supplementation, a diabetes‐specific antenatal programme, continuous glucose monitoring and postpartum exercise. We found a paucity of interventions limited by inadequate design, statistical power and poor reporting. The largest Type 2 diabetes pregnancy study to date demonstrated evidence of benefit for adding metformin to a standard insulin regimen compared to insulin alone. Other interventions need replication in larger studies among more diverse groups.

Conclusion

This review identified few RCTs targeting women of reproductive age with Type 2 diabetes particularly lacking in the preconception and postpartum periods. Tailored pre‐pregnancy, pregnancy and postpartum interventions for women with Type 2 diabetes to optimise care and health outcomes are urgently needed.
Connectome‐based predictive modelling of ageing, overall cognitive functioning and memory performance
Authors: Gu Yi , Guo Lianghu , Cai Xinyi , Yang Qing , Sun Jian , Li Yufei , Zhu Jiayu , Zhang Weijun , Huang Peiyu , Jiang Yi , Bo Bin , Li Yao , Zhang Yaoyu , Zhang Minming , Wu Jinsong , Shi Hongcheng , Liu Siwei , He Qiang , Yao Xing , Zhang Qiang , Wei Hongjiang , Zhang Xu , Zhang Han ,   the Consortium of Chinese Brain Molecular and Functional Mapping (CBMFM)
Published: November 2024

Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) and brain functional connectome (we use ‘brain connectome’ hereafter for simplicity) have advanced our understanding of the ageing brain and age‐related changes in cognitive function. Previous studies have investigated the association among brain connectome and age, global cognition, and memory function separately. However, very few have predicted age, overall cognitive functioning and memory performance in a single study to better understand their complex relationship. In this cross‐sectional study, we applied an exploratory, data‐driven method to investigate the brain connectome markers that could predict ageing, overall cognitive functioning assessed as intelligence quotient (IQ, measured by Wechsler Memory Scale) and memory performance assessed as memory quotient (MQ, measured by Wechsler Memory Scale) in a carefully designed, multicentre, normal ageing cohort (n = 313). Our results showed that brain connectome could predict ageing and IQ, but the association with MQ was weak. We found that the connectivity with orbital frontal cortex was associated with both ageing and IQ. Mediation analysis further showed that the brain connectome mediated the relationship between age and overall cognitive functioning, suggesting a protective brain connectomic mechanism for maintaining normal cognitive functions during healthy ageing. This work may shed light on the potential neural correlates of healthy ageing, overall cognitive functioning and memory performance.
Heretics, married priests, sexaholics or imperial enemies: who are the ‘Nicolaitans’ mentioned in Louis the German’s dream?
Authors: Rosé Isabelle
Published: November 2024

In the Annales Fuldenses entry for 874, there is a cryptic reference to some heretical ‘Nicolaitans’. This has been understood as a reference to married clerics, yet that particular meaning of the word only became widespread much later in a Gregorian context. This article provides a history of the label from its origins. On that basis, it proposes a new interpretation of this micro‐narrative, to explain why this term might have been used in the last decades of Louis the German’s reign, in connection with sexual affairs involving queens.
You Win Some, You Lose Some
Authors: Cizek Gregory J.
Published: November 2024

In a 1993 EM:IP article, I made six predictions related to measurement policy issues for the approaching millenium. In this article, I evaluate the accuracy of those predictions (Spoiler: I was only modestly accurate) and I proffer a mix of seven contemporary predictions, recommendations, and aspirations regarding assessment generally, NCME as an association, and specific psychometric practices.