bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive sequential development of left and right‐sided idiopathic recurrent laryngeal neuropathy in a Standardbred racehorse
Authors: Olsen H. M. B. , Sørby R. , Strand E.
Published: January 2025

A 4‐year‐old Standardbred racehorse presented to the hospital due to poor performance and abnormal respiratory noises. A high‐speed treadmill videoendoscopic examination including tracheal airway pressure measurements was performed. Grade C left recurrent neuropathy was diagnosed and a prosthetic laryngoplasty was performed. Following surgery, the horse went back into training and eventually racing and performed well in its first two starts. Ten and a half months later the horse re‐presented with abnormal respiratory noise, and poor performance had returned. Therefore, the examination was repeated. This revealed that the left arytenoid cartilage was in a similar abducted position as immediately after prosthetic laryngoplasty surgery. However, right‐sided arytenoid paresis was present as well as bilateral aryepiglottic fold collapse and right vocal fold collapse. Bilateral aryepiglottic fold resection and right vocal cordectomy was performed using a diode laser under standing sedation. The horse presented a third time, four and a half months later. At this point, the horse had developed right arytenoid paralysis, and it was euthanised. Necroscopy and histopathological examinations were performed. The right cricoarytenoideus dorsalis muscle was moderately reduced in size and showed signs of denervation atrophy. There was loss of normal myelinated fibres of both recurrent laryngeal nerves as well as evidence of active degeneration of the right recurrent laryngeal nerve. In the way the horse sequentially developed first left‐sided then right‐sided arytenoid paralysis, combined with histological evidence of nerve degeneration, a diagnosis of ‘clinical’ bilateral idiopathic recurrent laryngeal neuropathy was established.
Molecular basis of human angiotensin‐1 converting enzyme inhibition by a series of diprolyl‐derived compounds
Authors: Gregory Kyle S. , Cozier Gyles E. , Fienberg Stephen , Chibale Kelly , Sturrock Edward D. , Acharya K. Ravi
Published: January 2025

Angiotensin‐1‐converting enzyme (ACE) is a zinc‐dependent carboxypeptidase of therapeutic interest for the treatment of hypertension, inflammation and fibrosis. It consists of two homologous N and C catalytic domains, nACE and cACE, respectively. Unfortunately, the current clinically available ACE inhibitors produce undesirable side effects due to the nonselective inhibition of these domains. Through structure‐based drug design, we previously identified a series of diprolyl‐derived inhibitors (SG3, SG15, SG16, SG17 and SG18) in an attempt to specifically target nACE. Only one compound, SG16, possessed significant nACEselectivity. The previously determined 16‐nACE crystal structure (nACE:SG16) suggested interactions with Tyr369 (Phe381 in cACE) are responsible for this selectivity. To better understand the molecular basis for the lack of selectivity in the remaining compounds, we have cocrystallised nACE in complex with SG3, SG15, SG17 and SG18 and cACE in complex with SG3, SG15, SG16 and SG18 and determined their structures at high resolution. Apart from the catalytic residues, these structures further highlight the importance of residues distal to the active site that may play an important role in the design of domain‐selective inhibitors of ACE.
Not Ready yet: Why Accelerators May Not Close the Gender Gap in Entrepreneurship as Expected
Authors: Galmangodage Lakni , Yu Ai , Costanzo Laura
Published: January 2025

While existing research shows that accelerators play an important role in closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship, our study aims to critically assess the role of accelerators in relation to gender‐related structural inequalities, rather than individual‐level barriers, that women entrepreneurs face in the neoliberal entrepreneurial ecosystem. Drawing on Butler's (1990) work on gender performativity in which performativity is understood as citational practices, we examine the everyday discourses of six highly regarded Swedish accelerators on the entrepreneurial projects they support and the entrepreneurs they work with. Our Critical Discourse Analysis indicates that even in countries where gender equality policies are promoted, such as Sweden, accelerators' communicative acts “cite” and “reiterate” the gender and cultural norms of the Swedish entrepreneurial system, which is characterized by long‐standing disparities in gender‐based sectoral segregation and rooted in a strong individualistic culture under the influence of neoliberal policies and practices. In doing so, we question the readiness of accelerators to facilitate women entrepreneurship and suggest that they should instead work with key stakeholders, including feminist activists and policymakers, to confront and mediate systemic and structural gender inequalities.
The effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on people living with HIV
Authors: Walker S. H. , Grierson J. , Sullivan A. , Alagaratnam J.
Published: January 2025

Intro

Public health restrictions were introduced in the UK in March 2021 in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic. The aim of our study was to understand the impact of the disruptions to routine healthcare services among people with HIV during this time and the effect on their engagement with healthcare, social, employment, and relationship networks and mental and physical well‐being, to inform advanced planning in the event of future healthcare service disruptions.

Methods

An online survey was conducted, with participants recruited from one HIV clinic and one community organization in England. It included questions on demographics, HIV infection, treatment and status, the effect of the HIV pandemic on aspects of HIV care, and other social factors. Descriptive and limited statistical analysis was carried out to describe and look for associations within the data.

Results

Our sample of 100 respondents were significantly older, and had more White, male participants than the UK population of people with HIV. In total, 65% had experienced COVID‐19 infection. Over one‐quarter (29%) of our respondents had missed HIV appointments during the pandemic; 38% reported that access to HIV treatment had worsened, and 25% reported that their HIV‐related health had worsened. Women, those diagnosed with depression, those living further from the clinic, and Black respondents were significantly more likely to also report missed appointments. HIV‐related health deterioration was significantly associated with missed appointments and with welfare receipt.

Discussion and Conclusion

Our findings highlight the unequal effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic and disruption to HIV services on people living with HIV. Our sample under‐represented women and over‐represented older, White men, which needs to be addressed in the recruitment strategies of a future nationwide sample. In preparation for future service disruption, HIV services should identify vulnerable populations, including those at greater risk of missing appointments or struggling to access services, drug treatment, and information. Clear targeted mitigations should be developed and put in place. Steps to allow remote provision of services to those living at distance from the clinic should be considered.
Dislocation dynamics in ceramics: A perspective from theoretical simulations
Authors: Li Yi , Liu Xiangyang , Wan Chunlei
Published: January 2025

Plasticity in ceramics is governed by the process of dislocation dynamics, which can be divided into four stages: nucleation, activation, motion, and multiplication of dislocations. Unlike metals, ceramics exhibit distinct dynamic behavior of dislocations due to their inherent properties, such as a weak ability to nucleate and difficulties in activation. These factors contribute to their brittle nature and pose challenges for studying their plasticity. Theoretical simulations are useful tools to study dislocation dynamic behaviors. In this perspective, we briefly summarize the current methods for simulating the four stages of dislocation dynamics and discuss their relevance to the characteristic parameters of each stage. Additionally, we review the progress and challenges in applying these methods to ceramic materials. By addressing these aspects, we aim to provide an understanding of how simulations contribute to the study and improvement of ceramic plasticity.
The Sociodemographic Characteristics of Mothers With Intellectual Disability: A Review of Population‐Level Studies
Authors: Collings S. , Hindmarsh G. , Wilkinson H. , Llewellyn G.
Published: January 2025

Background

Population studies confirm mothers with intellectual disability have poorer antenatal outcomes than other mothers but less is known about any differences in sociodemographic characteristics between these groups.

Method

A systematic review of population‐level studies on parents with intellectual disability was undertaken from January to August 2023. Seven electronic databases and references from two literature reviews were examined and 27 studies met inclusion criteria for the review.

Results

All studies reported on mothers and only one on fathers. Maternal age and socioeconomic status were most frequently reported; age in 26 studies and socioeconomic status in 23 studies. Most studies found mothers with intellectual disability were significantly younger (73%) and more disadvantaged (83%) than their peers.

Conclusions

Maternal intellectual disability co‐occurs with established parenting risk factors in the general population. Social welfare programs must become disability‐inclusive and population datasets should routinely include disability items. A knowledge gap remains in relation to fathers with intellectual disability.
Non‐pharmacological Interventions for Preoperative Anxiety in Children: A Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Chen Haotian , Zhang Jianhao , Li Sainan , Zhang Haoyue , Wei Lingxin
Published: January 2025

Aims

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of non‐pharmacological interventions in children with preoperative anxiety.

Background

It is estimated that preoperative anxiety affects up to 60% of children which is associated with both immediate and long‐term adverse outcomes. Several non‐pharmacological interventions have been demonstrated to be effective, but further research is necessary to determine which is the most effective.

Design

This study was conducted and reported in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist.

Methods

We searched randomised controlled trials in twelve databases from which inception to March 31, 2024. The primary outcome was the severity of preoperative anxiety change from the baseline to the endpoint which is usually before the anaesthesia induction. Within the frequentist framework, a random‐effects network meta‐analysis (NMA) was used to compare the primary outcomes. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used to rank each intervention separately. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were carried out for the primary outcomes.

Results

A total of 36 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) with 3182 paediatric patients were included. Based on the results, psychological + digital health intervention was significantly more effective than control groups and ranked highest. Combined parental presence during induction anaesthesia and video games (PPIA + VG) had significant benefits compared to almost all other interventions with the highest rank.

Conclusion

Psychological + digital health interventions, especially PPIA + VG, may be the most effective non‐pharmacological interventions for reducing preoperative anxiety in children. It is necessary to conduct more RCTs to evaluate the efficacy of different non‐pharmacological interventions.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Non‐pharmacological interventions can effectively improve preoperative anxiety in children.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution applies to this work.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42024509512 (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/)
Printed versus heat‐polymerized resin for occlusal devices: Evaluation of physical and mechanical properties after brushing and microbial adhesion
Authors: Carvalho‐Silva João Marcos , Marinho Vanessa Teixeira , Lopez Vitor de Paula , Teixeira Ana Beatriz Vilela , Ferreira Izabela , de Campos Murilo Rodrigues , dos Reis Andréa Cândido
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To evaluate the physical and mechanical properties after brushing and microbial adhesion of printed resins (PRs) and heat‐polymerized resins (HRs) for occlusal devices (ODs).

Materials and Methods

Knoop microhardness and roughness were evaluated in three measurements before and after brushing with detergent or dentifrice. Flexural strength and modulus of elasticity were assessed by 3‐point bending, and the adhesion of Candida albicans and Streptococcus mutans was evaluated by colony‐forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) and metabolic activity using the XTT assay only without brushing. Flexural strength, modulus of elasticity, and microbial adhesion were analyzed using Student's t‐test, while three‐way repeated‐measures ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni was applied to evaluate microhardness and roughness (p < 0.05).

Results

PR showed higher microhardness, lower microbial adhesion, and metabolic activity of C. albicans than HR (p < 0.05), which in turn showed higher flexural strength and modulus of elasticity (p < 0.05). There was no difference in the adhesion and metabolic activity of S. mutans or the roughness between the resins (p > 0.05). Brushing with detergent and dentifrice reduced HR and PR microhardness (p < 0.05); the use of detergent did not change HR and PR roughness (p = 1.00), and the use of dentifrice increased HR roughness (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

It was concluded that PR showed lower roughness and higher microhardness and lower microbial adhesion after brushing with dentifrice compared to HR. However, HR had higher flexural strength and modulus of elasticity than PR. The use of detergent did not promote surface changes for PR and HR after brushing.
Factors and Outcomes Associated With Using Scratch‐Cooked, Organic, and Locally Grown Foods in School Meals in California
Authors: Zuercher Monica D. , Orta‐Aleman Dania , French Caitlin D. , Cohen Juliana F. W. , Hecht Christina A. , Hecht Kenneth , Chapman Leah E. , Read Margaret , Ohri‐Vachaspati Punam , Schwartz Marlene B. , Patel Anisha I. , Ritchie Lorrene D. , Gosliner Wendi
Published: January 2025

Background

Incorporating scratch‐cooked, organic, and locally grown foods into school meal programs can enhance meal quality and support local food systems.

Methods

430 California school food authorities were surveyed to (1) evaluate their use of scratch‐cooked, organic, and locally grown foods in their programs; (2) identify demographic and operational characteristics related to this use; and (3) analyze the relationship between serving more of these foods and perceived barriers to student meal participation. Poisson and logistic regression models, adjusted for SFAs' demographic characteristics, were used.

Results

Most respondents reported using scratch‐cooked (82%) and locally grown foods (80%) in their school meals, with one‐third serving organic foods (34%). Receiving grants to buy local produce and having a larger enrollment of White students were associated with more frequent use of these foods. More scratch cooking was associated with higher use of organic and locally grown foods and fewer perceptions of student nonparticipation due to concerns over meal healthfulness, taste, and freshness. More frequent use of organic and locally grown foods was also associated with fewer perceptions of student nonparticipation due to concerns about meal healthfulness.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the potential benefits of integrating more scratch‐cooked, organic, and/or locally grown foods into school meals.
Deliberation and Voting: A Matter of Truth or Taste
Authors: Odora Masayuki
Published: January 2025

This study examines the strategic communication that occurs before voting under various voting rules. A group of imperfectly informed voters communicate before casting their votes in binary elections. The voters have partially conflicting interests: there is a correct candidate in some states of the world, while in others, voters disagree, and ideologies matter. This study demonstrates that truthful communication is never an equilibrium under any voting rule when the size of the electorate is sufficiently large.
Little Lies, Sweet Little Lies: Motivations for Municipal Financial Statement Misclassification
Authors: Fiorillo Fabio , Quaresima Federico
Published: January 2025

This paper aims at shedding light on the plausible motivations for misclassification of a public accounting report. This issue has not been studied by scholars as much as misreporting. We will analyze misclassification errors which occurred in Italy from 2008 to 2010. In 2008, the municipal tax on main houses (Imposta comunale sugli immobili, ICI) was substituted with an intergovernmental grant of an equal amount. About 38% of municipalities did not register the compensatory grants in the correct budget line. Our analysis suggests that misclassification errors respond to a willingness to reduce external stakeholders' pressure on local governments decisions.
Hydrologic and Landscape Drivers of Seepage Lake ANC Status in Northern Wisconsin, USA
Authors: Rose Lucy A. , Serediak Nancy , Kolka Randall K. , Wickman Trent R.
Published: January 2025

In some seepage lakes, acid neutralising capacity (ANC) is regulated by precipitation chemistry and in‐lake biogeochemical processes with little influence from groundwater and catchment runoff. However, additional environmental contexts, for example, landscape position and changing precipitation dynamics, may also contribute to variability in ANC across lakes over time. We used a mixed effects model to assess the influence of changing precipitation patterns and the chemistry of hydrologic inputs on ANC in seven northern Wisconsin, USA seepage lakes from 1984 to 2018. We observed differential ANC responses across lakes to the concomitant changes in precipitation acidity and post‐drought oxidative acidity pulses from adjacent wetland soils. Although all study lakes lie within a 4 km2 area, mean lake ANC values ranged from 32.8 ± 25.2 μeq L−1 to 71.9 ± 26.8 μeq L−1 and were inversely related to lake landscape position. Lakes with higher mean ANC also showed lower relative variability over time, suggesting that these lakes were better buffered than those with lower ANC. Mixed effects modelling explained 50% of the ANC variability across all lakes, while model explanatory power ranged from 39% to 71% when ANC was assessed within individual lakes. The range of modelled ANC accuracy highlights the complex nature of biogeochemical regulation in individual seepage lakes, despite their shared geographic setting. Our study demonstrates the utility of mixed effects modelling for repeated measures analysis, emphasising the necessity of long‐term studies to evaluate seepage lake ANC responses to changing hydrologic and biogeochemical inputs.
Benefit Finding Among Caregivers With Stroke: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Jie Yue , Yi Huang Xian , Shuang Liu , Yan Liu , Yu Li , Li Chen , Rong Li
Published: January 2025

To explore the level and influencing factors of caregivers' benefit finding in stroke patients from both the patient and caregiver perspectives. The growing number of stroke patients with physical impairments has presented significant challenges for caregivers. Benefit finding refers to the positive experience caregivers derive from their caregiving roles, which can help mitigate the adverse effects on their mental health. Although previous research has confirmed that demographic factors affect the benefit finding of caregivers of stroke patients, few studies explore the impact of uncertainty in illness, care ability, and self‐efficacy on benefit finding. Consequently, the current research on this relationship is still quite limited. Cross‐sectional study. Data were collected from 428 caregivers among stroke patients. The research tools included demographic and disease characteristics, Benefit Finding Scale, Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale for Family Member, Family Caregiver Task Inventory, and General Self‐Efficacy Scale. The STROBE checklist was used to guide the presentation of this study. The caregivers' benefit finding among stroke patients are found to be at a medium low level. The result of multiple linear regression analysis showed that that stroke patients' self‐care ability, caregivers average monthly household income, illness complexity, managing own emotional needs, appraising supportive resources and self‐efficacy were influential factors in the benefit finding of caregivers. These factors accounted for 71.8% of benefit finding. The level of benefit finding for caregivers of stroke patients requires enhancement. Healthcare professionals could tailor interventions better to fit the unique characteristics of the target population thereby fostering a greater sense of benefit finding and supporting both the physical and mental well‐being of caregivers. The basic characteristics and benefit‐finding influence factors of the caregivers could help nurses identify caregivers who need help. If healthcare personnel can take some corresponding interventions based on the influencing factors of benefit finding, it can reduce the negative impact of caring for patients on caregivers and improve the well‐being of caregivers.
‘Paediatric Emergency Course’ for nursing continuing professional development programme evaluation: ARCS Motivational Design Model
Authors: Başer Aysel , Anil Murat
Published: January 2025

Background

Paediatric emergency and critical care require skilled nurses, but they often face a lack of motivation during continuing professional development. Motivation‐based, engaging activities in training programmes are essential to sustain interest and improve learning outcomes in these high‐stress environments.

Aim

This study aims to develop, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a Paediatric Emergency Course (PEC) using the ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction) Motivational Design Model to equip nurses with the knowledge and skills needed to manage paediatric patients in emergency and critical care settings.

Study Design

The study employed a quasi‐experimental pretest/post‐test design. The PEC was conducted from 1 June to 31 December 2023, with the participation of 57 nurses working in emergency and critical care units. To evaluate the programme's effectiveness, a paired t‐test was used for pre‐test and post‐test comparisons, and logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors affecting course success (lecture test activities and motivational tactics).

Results

Pre‐lecture assessments averaged 9.55, significantly increasing to 16.88 post‐lecture (out of 22), indicating a substantial improvement in knowledge after the lecture series (t = −20.26, df = 55, p < .001; 95% CI [−8.05, −6.60]). Similarly, pre‐course scores rose from 7.21 to 17.14 post‐course (out of 25), reflecting significant gains in overall understanding and competency (t = −20.83, df = 56, p < .001; 95% CI [−10.89, −8.97]). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that a one‐unit increase in post‐lecture test scores increased the likelihood of course success by 22.5%, with an odds ratio of 1.225 (B = .203, SE = 0.092, p = .028; 95% CI [1.023, 1.468]). Additionally, motivational design significantly influenced course success, increasing the likelihood by 433.3%, with an odds ratio of 5.333 (B = 1.674, SE = 0.363, p < .001; 95% CI [3.134, 9.074]).

Conclusion

The PEC continuing education programme, developed using the ARCS Motivational Design Model to support the professional development of nurses in emergency and critical care, was successfully implemented. These results suggest that both knowledge acquisition and motivational factors play a substantial role in enhancing course success among participants. Significant improvements in pre‐ and post‐test results, along with high scores on the motivational design scale, demonstrated the effectiveness of the programme.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The use of motivation‐enhancing tactics and strategies in training has led to successful outcomes, demonstrating that structured programmes designed with these methods can significantly improve the clinical competencies, expertise, decision‐making and patient safety of nurses working in paediatric emergency and critical care services in high‐pressure environments.
Disentangling the effects of temperature and rainfall on the population dynamics of Kalahari meerkats
Authors: Thorley Jack , Duncan Chris , Gaynor Dave , Manser Marta B. , Clutton-Brock Tim
Published: January 2025

In arid habitats, recent increases in summer temperatures associated with global warming are adversely affecting many animal populations. However, annual rainfall also varies widely in many of these areas, and we do not yet fully understand the relative impact of variation in temperature and rainfall on the demography of arid‐zone species. Here, we examine the effects of temperature and rainfall variation on the demography of meerkats Suricata suricatta in the southern Kalahari over the last 25 years. During this period, average maximum monthly air temperatures at our study site increased by around 1.5°C to 3.2°C, while annual rainfall fluctuated without a consistent trend. We show that annual changes in female fecundity and recruitment were more closely correlated with variation in rainfall. Increasing air temperatures were associated with reductions in the recruitment of pups and the survival of some age classes but, in most cases, the demographic consequences of high temperatures were modest compared to the effects of low rainfall, which in some years led to the near cessation of successful reproduction and the extinction of many smaller groups. For instance, exceptionally low rainfall in 2012–2013 was associated with low recruitment and with declines in group size and population density, which fell by over 50%. Unusually hot years did not have similar consequences. Following the 2012–2013 drought, intermittent years of low rainfall and frequent droughts continued to suppress recruitment and slowed the population's recovery. Future changes in temperature may affect the dynamics and size of the meerkat population, but our work suggests that over the last 25 years, annual changes in rainfall have exerted a stronger influence on meerkat demography. Our study demonstrates the importance of long‐term, individual‐based data for determining how changes in climate affect the dynamics of animal populations, especially in arid environments where bottom–up processes often dominate.
Unraveling the Relationship Between Vitamin D and Noncommunicable Diseases: A Systemic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Dumbre Dipali , Upendra Sheela , Zacharias Betsy Sara
Published: January 2025

Background

Subclinical vitamin D insufficiency is frequent in both developing and developed countries. Even after rickets was eliminated in the 1930s by fortifying milk, up to 1 billion people worldwide suffer from subclinical vitamin D deficiency (VDD). Numerous noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including depression, autoimmune illnesses, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease, are linked to this deficiency.

Methodology

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) protocol was applied when conducting a systematic review. Relevant studies published between 2010 and 2023 were found by searching databases such as Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. To find correlations between deficiency of vitamin D and NCDs, data was extracted from the studies and analyzed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tools (MMAT). In meta‐analysis data combined from multiple observational Unraveling the Relationship Between Vitamin D and Noncommunicable Diseases—A Systemic Review and Meta‐Analysis studies to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D insufficiency and health outcomes. Statistical techniques, such as calculating effect sizes and constructing confidence ranges, are employed to determine combined outcomes and investigate possible causal connections.

Results

Fourteen studies—including cross‐sectional studies, prospective cohorts, randomized controlled trials, and longitudinal studies—met the inclusion criteria. Significant correlations among deficiency of vitamin D and a number of NCDs, including anemia, diabetes, hypertension, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), mental health issues, and autoimmune hypothyroidism, were found in the review. The results highlight the prevalence of deficiency of vitamin D worldwide and its detrimental impact on health. In order to lower the risk of numerous NCDs, this review emphasizes the need for greater awareness and possible interventions to maintain appropriate vitamin D levels. A meta‐analysis was conducted to investigate the potential causal connections between vitamin D insufficiency and different health disorders. It elucidates the connections between deficient levels of vitamin D and conditions such as mental health disorders, anemia, diabetes, hypertension, and autoimmune diseases. The study prioritizes the examination of temporal correlations, biological plausibility, and the removal of confounding factors to provide support for these associations. While the text acknowledges that experimental data, such as randomized controlled trials, would enhance the argument for causation, it mostly depends on observational studies.
The disease burden of earlier and late‐onset rheumatoid arthritis on depression and related geriatric syndromes
Authors: Keskin Demircan Sultan , Kahveci Abdulvahap
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to compare the prevalence of depression and related geriatric syndromes in earlier‐onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) patients, who have experienced prolonged inflammation and medication use, with those with late‐onset rheumatoid arthritis (LORA) patients, who often present with an acute and severe course.

Methods

In this multidisciplinary study, patients with EORA and LORA aged 60 and over who were referred to a tertiary rheumatology clinic underwent a geronto‐rheumatologic evaluation. Muscle mass and handgrip strength, cognitive function, nutritional status, Fried frailty index, fall history, gait speed, depression according to Geriatric Depression Scale and Insomnia Severity Index were recorded. The disease characteristics and geriatric syndromes were compared in the two groups. The regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between depression and related variables.

Results

The mean age of the 129 patients (F:M ratio = 4.15; comprising 64 EORA and 65 LORA) was 67.42 ± 5.18 years. The prevalence of depression, undernutrition, and frailty was observed in 36.4% (47; 129), 41.08% (53; 129), and 47.3% (61; 129), respectively. Patients with EORA presented with a significantly higher prevalence of female gender (87.7% vs. 73.4%, P = 0.033), depression (47.7% vs. 25.0%, P = 0.006), low gait speed (50.0% vs. 32.8%, P = 0.036) and polypharmacy (83.1% vs. 64.1% vs. P = 0.012) compared to patients with LORA. In the regression analysis, insomnia and undernutrition were significantly related to depression (OR: 3.29; 95%Cl: 1.41–7.69, P = 0.006, and OR: 3.03; 95% Cl: 1.33–7.03, P = 0.010, respectively).

Conclusion

Depression is more prevalent, particularly in patients with EORA, and is associated with malnutrition and insomnia in patients with RA. Thus, geronto‐rheumatologic evaluation should be taken into account in RA management.
The fettered and the flea: a new poem by Edmund Waller☆
Authors: Gillespie Stuart
Published: January 2025

This contribution explores for the first time a 22‐line poem in a British Library manuscript, ‘To a young lady that kept a flea chay'nd in a box’, which can be convincingly ascribed to Edmund Waller. Its most famous relative is Donne's ‘The Flea’, but its ancestry differs. Moreover Waller's is addressed, as a playful compliment, to a child, not a lover. Several traditions combine in it: that deriving from the pseudo‐Ovidian Pulex; that of ‘multum in parvo’ in poetry of and beyond the English Renaissance; the French verse of the contemporary précieuses. Its close relationship to Waller's ‘To a very young Lady’/‘To my young Lady Lucy Sidney’ is examined. A coda places into the same tradition a ‘flea poem’ of the later seventeenth century by Joshua Barnes.
Phenotypic and genotypic landscape of antibiotic resistance through One Health approach in Sri Lanka: A systematic review
Authors: Nisansala Thilini , Gunasekara Yasodhara Deepachandi , Piyarathne Nadisha Sewwandi
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) constitutes a significant burden to economies in developing countries. In the ‘One‐Health’ concept, ABR in human, animals, and environment is interconnected. The aim of this study was to critically appraise literature on ABR in all three domains in One Health, within the Sri Lankan geographical context.

Methods

The protocol was registered with PROSPERO and followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A comprehensive electronic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science databases and grey literature via Google Scholar. Out of 298 abstracts, 37 articles were selected following screening. A risk of bias assessment was conducted using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Following blinded data extraction, descriptive data analysis and narrative synthesis were performed.

Results

This review included studies published between 2016‐2023. Of the included studies, 17 (45.9%) reported data on samples obtained from humans, 9 (24.3%) from animals, and 6 (16.2%) from environmental sources, two studies (5.4%) from humans and animals, one study on animal and environment; whereas two studies including all three domains. ABR of 32 different bacteria (Gram negative⸺17, Gram positive⸺14) was retrieved; E. coli was the most frequently studied bacteria followed by MRSA and ESBL. For E. coli, a median resistance over 50% was reported for sulfamethoxazole (88.8%), trimethoprim (79.1%), ampicillin (60%) and tetracycline (50.3%) with the highest resistance for erythromycin (98%). Of a total of 21 antibiotic‐resistance genes in E. coli, the highest genotypic resistance was for tet‐A (48.5%).

Conclusions

A comprehensive description of ABR for a total of 32 bacteria, 62 antibiotics and 46 ABR genes is presented. This review discusses the contemporary ABR landscape in Sri Lanka through the One Health lens, highlighting key methodological and empirical research gaps.
Prevalence and incidence of zoonotic diseases in South Asia: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Khatoon Sajda , Mahapatra Biswajit , Thubru Edakashwa , Bhattacharya Paramita , Mukherjee Nirmalya , Bhattacharya Chanchal , Kondabattula Ganesh , Bharti Omesh , Sharma Anil , John Denny
Published: January 2025

Objective:

This review aims to estimate the prevalence and incidence of zoonotic diseases from studies of populations from South Asia (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka).

Introduction:

South Asia is of notable importance in terms of the prevalence and incidence of endemic zoonoses, as well as its role as a focal point for emerging zoonotic diseases.

Inclusion criteria:

All populations residing in the 8 South Asian countries, irrespective of age/gender, will be considered. Primary outcomes will include studies estimating the prevalence and incidence of zoonotic diseases in South Asia. Secondary outcomes will include the burden of zoonotic diseases, including emergence and re-emergence.

Methods:

Databases including MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Ovid), Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as government websites, reports of multilateral agencies, and gray literature will be searched. Titles/abstracts, full screening, and critical appraisal of included studies will be conducted by 2 independent reviewers with adjudication by a third author. JBI guidelines for prevalence and incidence studies will be used to extract data from included studies. Critical appraisal of included studies will be conducted using the standard JBI checklists. Where feasible, statistical meta-analysis will be conducted to report the proportional representation related to prevalence and incidence using forest plots, along with the 95% CI. Publication bias will be assessed using Egger’s test and funnel plots, if possible. Subgroup and sensitivity analysis will be conducted using standard methods. Where statistical pooling is not possible, tables and figures will be used to present the results in a narrative synthesis.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42023450289
Factors influencing direct breastfeeding of preterm infants in neonatal wards and the provision of breastfeeding support: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Crump Laura , Fontaine Guillaume , Mooney Meagan , Calleja Sabine , Feeley Nancy , Semenic Sonia
Published: January 2025

Objective:

The objective of this review will be to synthesize the qualitative evidence on factors that influence direct breastfeeding of preterm infants in neonatal wards and the provision of breastfeeding support.

Introduction:

Breastmilk is critical for the health of preterm neonates, and infants who directly feed at the breast are more likely to receive breastmilk exclusively for longer periods. Direct breastfeeding is associated with improved maternal coping and development of maternal identity. Preterm infants are significantly less likely to breastfeed than their term counterparts. An understanding of barriers and facilitators of direct breastfeeding and breastfeeding support in neonatal wards is lacking.

Inclusion criteria:

The proposed qualitative systematic review will include studies using qualitative methods and mixed methods, exploring the perceptions of breastfeeding parents, neonatal health care staff, and/or support people about the barriers and facilitators to direct breastfeeding (ie, suckling breastmilk directly from the parent’s breast) among preterm infants (infants born at less than 37 weeks’ gestation) admitted to a neonatal ward. Articles written in English or French will be considered.

Methods:

MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Embase (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid), Scopus, and the Cochrane Library will be searched, with no time restrictions applied. Two independent reviewers will screen and extract data using Covidence, and a tool developed for this purpose. The findings will be coded using NVivo 15 and pooled using the meta-aggregation approach. The findings will then be mapped to specific domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework using an iteratively developed coding manual. Studies will be appraised using the JBI critical appraisal tool for qualitative research, and confidence in the overall findings will be assessed using the ConQual approach.
The effectiveness of unimodality organ preservation surgical vs organ preservation radiotherapy for early hypopharyngeal cancer: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Gunasekera Delu , Goel Sahil , Kao Stephen , Krishnan Suren , Hodge John Charles , Foreman Andrew , Stone Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Objective:

Our aim is to determine the comparative effectiveness of unimodality organ preservation surgery versus radiotherapy on oncological and functional outcomes in patients with early hypopharyngeal cancer.

Introduction:

Early hypopharyngeal cancer is difficult to detect and therefore rarely diagnosed, as patients are often asymptomatic. Radiotherapy is considered the main treatment, although this modality has been compared to the previously used open surgical approach, which may not reflect current surgical options. This is reflected in the available literature, with a paucity of data on management guidelines. Minimally invasive surgery is providing better access to the hypopharynx, such as CO2 laser microsurgery and transoral robotic surgery. These novel surgical procedures may pave the way for revised guidelines to managing hypopharyngeal cancer.

Inclusion criteria:

We will include randomized controlled trials and quasi- (or pseudo-randomized) experimental studies that investigate organ preservation surgery and radiotherapy treatments for early hypopharyngeal cancer in adults with primary disease. Primary outcomes include disease-free survival of 2 years or up to 5-year overall survival. Secondary outcomes are functional, including swallowing, phonation, and complications associated with treatment, such as post-procedural hemorrhage; return to theater or return to operating room; tracheostomizing patients; post-radiation mucositis; dysphagia/odynophagia; and xerostomia.

Methods:

The review will follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness. Four databases will be searched, namely, PubMed, Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), and the Cochrane Library. Two independent reviewers will screen studies and assess methodological quality using the JBI critical appraisal tools. Individual study estimates will be pooled in a meta-analysis and presented in forest plots.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42023400206.
Effectiveness of interventions to prevent or treat prolonged grief symptoms among families of patients who die in Intensive Care Units: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Rosinhas Ana , Gomes Aramid , Silva Rosa , Ramos Lino , Alves Elisabete , Sampaio Francisco
Published: January 2025

Objective:

The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions to prevent or treat prolonged grief symptoms among families of patients who die in intensive care units (ICU).

Introduction:

Up to 52% of families of patients who die in ICU may be at risk of experiencing prolonged grief symptoms.

Inclusion criteria:

Studies of adult family members (≥18 years) of adult ICU patients (≥18 years) who underwent a treatment withdrawal or withholding decision, and who were exposed to tailored interventions to prevent or treat prolonged grief symptoms before, during, and/or after the patient’s death will be considered for inclusion. Both randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, before and after studies, interrupted time-series, cohort, and case-control studies will be considered.

Methods:

The JBI methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness will be followed. Databases to be searched include CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, APA PsycINFO (all via EBSCOhost), PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, and Scopus. Two independent reviewers will perform the study selection, critical appraisal, and data extraction. Studies will be pooled in meta-analysis, if possible. Heterogeneity will be assessed using the standard χ2 and I2
tests. Statistical analyses will be performed using the random effects model. The fixed effects model will be used if fewer than 5 studies are included. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach will be used to grade the certainty of evidence, and a Summary of Findings will be presented.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42024528308
Defining and characterizing the role of the liaison in supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ people to navigate health-service settings: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Slemon Allie , Handlovsky Ingrid , Hubert Jaymelyn , Zakher Bernadette , Mussell Jessica , Crawford Jess , Gan Dara , Schmied Sage
Published: January 2025

Objective:

This scoping review seeks to identify what is known about the role of liaisons who support two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex, and asexual (2SLGBTQIA+) people receiving care in health-service settings, and specifically, how the 2SLGBTQIA+ liaison role is defined and characterized.

Introduction:

To mitigate the stigma and discrimination experienced by 2SLGBTQIA+ people in health-service settings, a 2SLBGTQIA+ liaison position was initiated at a Canadian hospital. A comprehensive understanding of the 2SLGBTQIA+ liaison role is integral to the implementation of 2SLGBTQIA+ liaison positions in health-service settings globally. However, a thorough understanding of the role remains unclear.

Inclusion criteria:

This scoping review will consider literature that discusses the role of liaisons supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in health-service settings. No limitations will be placed on publication date, age, geography, liaison position title, or the professional, disciplinary, or educational background of the liaison.

Methods:

This review will follow the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. Databases to be searched will include MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), APA PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), LGBTQ+ Source (EBSCOhost), Scopus, Web of Science, as well as ProQuest Dissertations and Theses for gray literature. Two independent reviewers will screen titles, abstracts, and full-text articles; discrepancies will be resolved by consensus or through a third reviewer. Data will be extracted using an extraction tool developed by the research team. Findings will be presented in tabular/diagram format along with a narrative summary to highlight key themes related to the review question.

Review registration number:

Open Science Framework: osf.io/rkx6j
A small cavity for detecting sound-induced flow
Authors: Lai Junpeng , Liu Zihan , Karimi Morteza , Farahikia Mahdi , Cui Weili , Pourghader Johar , Aghazadeh Sara , Ke Changhong , Miles Ronald
Published: January 2025

A study is presented of a method for creating an acoustic flow sensor that is generally compatible with current silicon microfabrication processes. An aim of this effort is to obtain a design consisting of a minimal departure from the existing designs employed in mass-produced silicon microphones. Because the primary component in all of these microphones is the cavity behind the pressure-sensing diaphragm, we begin with a study of the acoustic particle velocity within a cavity in a planar surface. The sound within the cavity is caused by the external plane sound wave traveling parallel to the cavity's open surface. It is shown that with suitable dimensions of the cavity, the acoustic particle velocity simultaneously flows inward at one end and outward at the other end of the single open cavity surface. A simple analytical model is presented to estimate the required length and depth of the cavity such that the acoustic particle velocity into and out of the opening is a reasonable approximation to that of a plane traveling sound wave in the free field. Measurements of the acoustic particle velocity into and out of the cavity are in close agreement with both the simple model and a more detailed finite element model. Agreement between two dissimilar modeling approaches and experiments suggests that the dominant features of the system have been accounted for. By redirecting the acoustic particle velocity into and out of the cavity opening rather than the flow being parallel to the plane surface, this configuration greatly facilitates the design and fabrication of structures intended to sense the acoustic flow.