bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION OF PIPER BETLE L. EXTRACTS AND ITS ANTIVIRULENCE ACTIVITY TOWARDS P. AERUGINOSA
Authors: Azahar Nurul Izzati , Mohd Mokhtar Nadzirah , Mahmood Syed , Abd Aziz ‪Mohd Aizudin , Arifin Mohd Azmir
Published: December 2022

The virulence factor of bacteria such as P. aeruginosa causes severe problems affecting human health and environmental quality. In this study, Piper betle undergoes an extraction process yielding extract to diminish the virulence factor of P. aeruginosa. The efficiency of Piper betle treatment on P. aeruginosa was measured using Pyoverdine assay. The different factors affected the Piper betle extract yield such as leaves to a solvent ratio (1:6 and 1:10), extraction method (maceration and sonication) and different solvents (methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate and hexane) were tested. Pyoverdine assay illustrates ethyl acetate exhibits the lowest peak (OD630 = 0.2320) compared to methanol, ethanol and hexane due to the presence of a bioactive compound reducing the virulence factor. The ratio of 1:10 has a higher yield of 4.53±0.05 g and the ratio of 1:6 yields 2.86±0.05 g of extracts because of a better contact area. Maceration with agitation indicated the highest yield of 0.5210±0.05 g followed by maceration without agitation at 0.2660±0.05 g and 0.2792±0.05 g for sonication. The yield of Piper betle with different solvents showed the lowest yield is hexane 0.4741±0.05 g followed by ethyl acetate 2.4975±0.05 g, ethanol 3.7658±0.05 g and methanol 6.3331±0.05 g due to solvent polarity. This study aims to provide insightful knowledge of applied factor affecting Piper betle extracts and the ability of Piper betle as antivirulence and antibacterial agent against P. aeruginosa.
Fostering Community within the Classroom through Drama Education for Indigenous Children
Authors: Baharuddin Nurul Nafisa , Abdul Samat Norhanim , Abdullah Tina
Published: December 2022

This study looks at how drama might help indigenous children in a Johor Orang Asli settlement build a sense of community and improve their social skills. It aims to demonstrate that if given more chances to advance their educational backgrounds, children will be interested in learning. The findings of this study will also persuade educators that it is possible to support the social behaviour development of indigenous children. To convey the data, a case study qualitative design was adopted. The data was gathered using observation and interviews as the instruments. The researchers participated in the activities and conducted semi-structured interviews following each theatrical session. Themes were used to analyse the data. The study highlights the effects of drama on social development, including children’s increased communication abilities and the improvement of communication skills in children. The results can be used as a general overview by educators and the government to understand how drama might be employed as a teaching approach for indigenous children.
Perceptions of ESL Teachers from Tamil Vernacular Type Schools (SJKT) About Online Teaching and Learning During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Raman Kumuthaselvi , C. Sandaran Shanti , Gunasegaran Iswaran
Published: December 2022

The purpose of the study was to explore the perceptions of ESL teachers in Tamil vernacular schools about online teaching and learning during the Covid-19 pandemic. While there are studies on teachers’ perceptions during Covid-19, less is known about ESL Tamil vernacular type schoolteachers’ perceptions on teaching and learning during the Covid pandemic, where Tamil is the medium of instruction, with the Malay Language as the second language and English as the third language. Purposive sampling was used to select 30 ESL teachers from different Tamil vernacular schools in the Johor Bahru region. Using an explanatory sequential mixed method approach to collect the data, in the first phase, a close-ended questionnaire was used as a quantitative instrument. As for the second phase, an open-ended questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were used to collect qualitative data. GNU PSPP software was used to analyse the quantitative data, while the qualitative data was analysed through descriptive content analysis. The findings of the study showed the perceptions of ESL teachers about online teaching and learning, such as online teaching and learning tools, skills needed to conduct online teaching, challenges in online teaching and learning as well as positive aspects of online teaching and learning. The findings show that the challenges the teachers faced during online teaching outweighs the positive aspects stated. This calls for more research about vernacular-type schools. The findings can be a reminder for the school management to provide more training for teachers on how to help students be more interactive, motivated and  be less inhibited during online teaching and learning.
A Euclidean Fourier‐analytic approach to vertical projections in the Heisenberg group
Authors: Harris Terence L. J.
Published: December 2022

An improved almost everywhere lower bound is given for Hausdorff dimension under vertical projections in the first Heisenberg group, with respect to the Carnot‐Carathéodory metric. This improves the known lower bound, and answers a question of Fässler and Hovila. The approach uses the Euclidean Fourier transform, Basset's integral formula, and modified Bessel functions of the second kind.
The Use of Continuous Glucose Monitors in Sport: Possible Applications and Considerations
Authors: Bowler Amy-Lee M. , Whitfield Jamie , Marshall Lachlan , Coffey Vernon G. , Burke Louise M. , Cox Gregory R.
Published: December 2022

This review discusses the potential value of tracking interstitial glucose with continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) in athletes, highlighting possible applications and important considerations in the collection and interpretation of interstitial glucose data. CGMs are sensors that provide real time, longitudinal tracking of interstitial glucose with a range of commercial monitors currently available. Recent advancements in CGM technology have led to the development of athlete-specific devices targeting glucose monitoring in sport. Although largely untested, the capacity of CGMs to capture the duration, magnitude, and frequency of interstitial glucose fluctuations every 1–15 min may present a unique opportunity to monitor fueling adequacy around competitive events and training sessions, with applications for applied research and sports nutrition practice. Indeed, manufacturers of athlete-specific devices market these products as a “fueling gauge,” enabling athletes to “push their limits longer and get bigger gains.” However, as glucose homeostasis is a complex phenomenon, extensive research is required to ascertain whether systemic glucose availability (estimated by CGM-derived interstitial glucose) has any meaning in relation to the intended purposes in sport. Whether CGMs will provide reliable and accurate information and enhance sports nutrition knowledge and practice is currently untested. Caveats around the use of CGMs include technical issues (dislodging of sensors during periods of surveillance, loss of data due to synchronization issues), practical issues (potential bans on their use in some sporting scenarios, expense), and challenges to the underpinning principles of data interpretation, which highlight the role of sports nutrition professionals to provide context and interpretation.
Low Prevalence of A Priori Power Analyses in Motor Behavior Research
Authors: McKay Brad , Corson Abbey , Vinh Mary-Anne , Jeyarajan Gianna , Tandon Chitrini , Brooks Hugh , Hubley Julie , Carter Michael J.
Published: December 2022

A priori power analyses can ensure studies are unlikely to miss interesting effects. Recent metascience has suggested that kinesiology research may be underpowered and selectively reported. Here, we examined whether power analyses are being used to ensure informative studies in motor behavior. We reviewed every article published in three motor behavior journals between January 2019 and June 2021. Power analyses were reported in 13% of studies (k = 636) that tested a hypothesis. No study targeted the smallest effect size of interest. Most studies with a power analysis relied on estimates from previous experiments, pilot studies, or benchmarks to determine the effect size of interest. Studies without a power analysis reported support for their main hypothesis 85% of the time, while studies with a power analysis found support 76% of the time. The median sample sizes were n = 17.5 without a power analysis and n = 16 with a power analysis, suggesting the typical study design was underpowered for all but the largest plausible effect size. At present, power analyses are not being used to optimize the informativeness of motor behavior research. Adoption of this widely recommended practice may greatly enhance the credibility of the motor behavior literature.
Hubbard Bands, Mott Transition and Deconfinement in Strongly Correlated Systems
Authors: Irkhin V. Yu.
Published: December 2022

The problem of deconfinement phases in strongly correlated systems is discussed. In space–time dimension $$d = 3 + 1$$, a competition of confinement and Coulomb phases occurs, but in $$d = 2 + 1$$ the confining phase dominates owing to monopole proliferation, but Dirac points can change the situation. Combining the Kotliar–Ruckenstein representation and fractionalized spin-liquid deconfinement picture, the Mott transition and Hubbard subbands are treated, general expressions in the case of an arbitrary bare band spectrum being obtained. The transition into a metallic state is determined by condensation of a gapless boson mode. The spectrum picture in the insulating state is considerably influenced by the spinon spin-liquid spectrum and hidden Fermi surface.
Mathematical Modeling of the Selective Transport of Singly Charged Ions Through Multilayer Composite Ion-Exchange Membrane during Electrodialysis
Authors: Gorobchenko A. D. , Gil V. V. , Nikonenko V. V. , Sharafan M. V.
Published: December 2022

The deposition of several alternating anion- and cation-exchange surface layers (layer-by-layer method) is a promising technique for the modification of ion-exchange membranes, which makes it possible to essentially increase their selectivity to singly charged ions. This paper presents a one-dimensional model, which is based on the Nernst–Planck–Poisson equations and describes the competitive transfer of singly and doubly charged ions through a multilayer composite ion-exchange membrane. It has been revealed for the first time that, as in the earlier studied case of a bilayer membrane, the dependence of the specific permselectivity coefficient (P1/2) of a multilayer membrane on the electrical current density passes through a maximum $$\left( {P_{{{1 \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {1 2}} \right. \kern-0em} 2}}}^{{\max }}} \right).$$ It has been shown that an increase in the number of nanosized modification bilayers n leads to the growth of $$P_{{{1 \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {1 2}} \right. \kern-0em} 2}}}^{{\max }},$$ but the flux of a preferably transferred ion decreases in this case. It has been established that $$P_{{{1 \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {1 2}} \right. \kern-0em} 2}}}^{{\max }}$$ is attained at underlimiting current densities and relatively low potential drop. The simulated dependences $$P_{{{1 \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {1 2}} \right. \kern-0em} 2}}}^{{\max }}$$(n) qualitatively agree with the known literature experimental and theoretical results.
When brain devices go wrong: a patient with a malfunctioning deep brain stimulator (DBS) presents to the emergency department
Authors: Straw Isabel , Ashworth Charlotte , Radford Nicola
Published: December 2022

A man in his 50s attended the emergency department with an acute deterioration in his Parkinson’s symptoms, presenting with limb rigidity, widespread tremor, choreiform dyskinesia, dysarthria, intense sadness and a severe occipital headache. After excluding common differentials for sudden-onset parkinsonism (eg, infection, medication change), an error on the patient’s deep brain stimulator was noted. The patient’s symptoms only resolved once he was transferred to the specialist centre so that the programmer could reset the device settings. Due to COVID-19-related bed pressures on the ward, there was a delay in the patient receiving specialist attention—highlighting the need for non-specialist training in the emergency management of device errors.
Multidisciplinary management of Papillon-Lefevre syndrome as a result of consanguineous marriage
Authors: Ramkumar Narayane , Sankar Hanumanth
Published: December 2022

Papillon-Lefevre syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive syndrome, and consanguinity has been reported in 20%–40% of cases. It is characterised by palmoplantar hyperkeratosis associated with severe early-onset periodontitis and premature loss of primary and permanent teeth. This report describes a case of PLS in a female patient with consanguineously married parents. The patient reported mobile upper front teeth. Clinical examination revealed presence of marked palmoplantar hyperkeratosis.

Symmetric, well-demarcated, yellowish, keratotic and confluent plaques were seen on the skin of her palms and soles. Intraoral periodontal examination revealed erythematous gingiva with generalised periodontal pockets. Generalised mobility of teeth was present with clinically missing lower anterior teeth. Based on clinical and radiographic feature and the patient’s medical, dental and family history, a diagnosis of PLS was made.
Adult granulosa cell tumour of the testis: an uncommon tumour
Authors: Wahlstedt Eric R , Allison Derek B , Bell John R
Published: December 2022

A male patient in his late 20s was admitted to the hospital after presenting with left abdominal, back and scrotal pain that had begun approximately 2 weeks earlier. He had a history of a stable left testicular mass for 3 years, and a physical exam revealed a non-tender, firm left testicular mass and a mild left varicocele. Testicular tumour markers were normal, but a scrotal ultrasound revealed a 2 cm hypoechoic left testicular lesion. Staging imaging showed no retroperitoneal adenopathy or pulmonary metastases.

The patient underwent left radical inguinal orchiectomy with no evidence of extratesticular or spermatic cord involvement. His surgical pathology revealed a left pT1a 2.3 cm adult granulosa cell tumour of the testis with no lymphovascular invasion. The tumour was positive for inhibin and negative for OCT3/4, supporting the diagnosis.
Complications of diagnostic upper Gastrointestinal endoscopy: common and rare – recognition, assessment and management
Authors: Waddingham William , Kamran Umair , Kumar Bhaskar , Trudgill Nigel J , Tsiamoulos Zacharias P , Banks Matthew
Published: December 2022

A clear understanding of the potential complications or adverse events (AEs) of diagnostic endoscopy is an essential component of being an endoscopist. Creating a culture of safety and prevention of AEs should be part of routine endoscopy practice. Appropriate patient selection for procedures, informed consent, periprocedure risk assessments and a team approach, all contribute to reducing AEs. Early recognition, prompt management and transparent communication with patients are essential for the holistic and optimal management of AEs. In this review, we discuss the complications of diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, including their recognition, treatment and prevention.
Improving the transition from paediatric to adult healthcare: a scoping review on the recommendations of young adults with lived experience
Authors: Cassidy Monique , Doucet Shelley , Luke Alison , Goudreau Alex , MacNeill Lillian
Published: December 2022

Objective

The goal of this review was to identify recommendations within the literature on how to improve the transition from paediatric to adult healthcare from the perspective of young adults (YAs) living with chronic conditions who have gone through the process.

Design

This review was conducted in accordance with JBI methodology for scoping reviews.

Search strategy

We searched MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), PsycINFO (EBSCO) and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases, and conducted a grey literature search for relevant material. The databases were searched in December 2019, and re-searched June 2020 and September 2020, while the grey literature was searched in April 2020. This scoping review focused on the recommendations of YAs with chronic conditions who have transitioned from paediatric to adult healthcare, in any setting (eg, hospital, clinic or community), and across all sectors (eg, health, education and social services).

Results

Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria for this review. These studies included YAs with 14 different chronic conditions, receiving primary health services in North America (67%) and Europe (33%). YAs’ recommendations for improving the transition from paediatric to adult healthcare (n=number of studies reported) included: improving continuity of care (n=12); facilitating patient-centred care (n=9); building strong support networks (n=11) and implementing transition education preparedness training (n=7).

Conclusion

Review findings can benefit service delivery by addressing important barriers to health, education, and social services for youth transitioning to adult healthcare.
Exploring biomarkers in routine diagnostics for the risk stratification of older patients in the Chest Pain Unit: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kunz Anna Lisa , Schönstein Anton , Bahrmann Philipp , Giannitsis Evangelos , Wahl Hans-Werner , Katus Hugo A , Frey Norbert , Bahrmann Anke
Published: December 2022

Objectives

This study aims to estimate the association of the often, in daily clinical practice, used biological age-related biomarkers high-sensitivity troponin-T (hs-TnT), C reactive protein (CRP) and haemoglobin (Hb) with all-cause mortality for the purpose of older patient’s risk stratification in the emergency department (ED).

Design

Exploratory, prospective cohort study with a follow-up at 2.5 years after recruitment started. For the predictors, data from the hospital files including the routinely applied biological age-related biomarkers hs-TnT, CRP and Hb were supplemented by a questionnaire.

Setting

A cardiological ED, Chest Pain Unit, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany.

Participants

N=256 cardiological ED patients with a minimum age of 70 years and the capability to informed consent.

Primary outcome measures

The primary outcome of this study was all-cause mortality which was assessed by requesting registry office information.

Results

Among N=256 patients 63 died over the follow-up period. Positive results in each of the three biomarkers alone as well as the combination were associated with increased all-cause mortality at follow-up. The number of positive age-related biomarkers appeared to be strongly indicative of the risk of mortality, even when controlled for major confounders (age, sex, body mass index, creatinine clearance and comorbidity).

Conclusions

In older ED patients, biomarkers explicitly related to biological ageing processes such as hs-TnT, CRP and Hb were to a certain degree independently of each other as well as combined associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality. Thus, they may have the potential to be used to supplement the general risk stratification of older patients in the ED. Validation of the results in a large dataset is needed.
Safety and efficacy of long-acting intramuscular cabotegravir and rilpivirine in adults with HIV-1 infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Wu Yuan-ni , Yu Hai , Lu Lianfeng , Li Xiaodi , Liu Xiaosheng , Cao Wei , Li Taisheng
Published: December 2022

Background

Current antiretroviral regimens have, for the most part, achieved optimal antiretroviral efficacy and tolerability, transforming HIV infection from a deadly disease into a manageable chronic condition. However, adherence to daily oral drug intake remains an issue, as it is the most important determinant for sustained viral suppression and prevention of the emergence of drug-resistant viral strains. The long-acting injection antiretroviral cabotegravir and rilpivirine combination, a novel drug delivery approach, is about to revolutionise the therapy for people living with HIV. In this protocol, we aim to generate a clinically useful summary of the interventions based on their efficacy.

Methods and analysis

We searched the literature for eligible studies published from inception up to 16 August 2022 through PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus and ClinicalTrials.gov. Two methodologically trained researchers will select the qualified studies for data extraction independently. Cochrane Risk of Bias tool will be used to assess the risk of bias in included studies. Statistical heterogeneity will be computed by Cochrane X2and I2tests. Sensitivity analysis will be conducted to evaluate the stability of the results. Publication biases will be evaluated by Begg’s and Egger’s tests. The quality of evidence will be assessed by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation system. The RevMan V.5.3 and Stata V.14.0 software will be applied for statistical analyses.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval will not be required for this systematic review because the data used are not linked to the individual patient. The results of this review will be disseminated by being published in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022310414
Measures used to assess interventions for increasing patient involvement in Danish healthcare setting: a rapid review
Authors: Toft Bente Skovsby , Rodkjaer Lotte , Andersen Anne Bendix , de Thurah Annette , Nielsen Berit , Nielsen Camilla Palmhøj , Hørlück Jens Thusgård , Kallestrup Lisbeth , Schougaard Liv Marit Valen , Ludvigsen Mette Spliid , Hoybye Mette Terp , Ellegaard Trine , Bekker Hilary
Published: December 2022

Objective

To identify measures used within Denmark evaluating any type of intervention designed to facilitate patient involvement in healthcare.

Design

Environmental scan employing rapid review methods.

Data sources

MEDLINE, PsycInfo and CINAHL were searched from 6–9 April 2021 from database inception up to the date of the search.

Eligibility criteria

Quantitative, observational and mixed methods studies with empirical data on outcomes used to assess any type of intervention aiming to increase patient involvement with their healthcare. Language limitations were Danish and English.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers extracted data from 10% of the included studies and, due to their agreement, the data from the rest were extracted by first author. Data were analysed with reference to existing categories of measuring person-centred care; findings were synthesised using narrative summaries. Adapted Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines were used to guide reporting.

Results

Among 3767 records, 43 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 74 different measures used to evaluate interventions aimed at increasing patient involvement within healthcare in Danish hospital and community settings. Generic measures assessed: patient engagement (n=3); supporting self-management (n=8); supporting shared decision-making (n=9); patient satisfaction and experiences of care (n=11); health-related patient-reported outcome (n=20).

Conclusions

Across Denmark, complex interventions designed to improve patient involvement with healthcare vary in their goals and content. Some targeting healthcare professionals, some patient health literacy and some service infrastructure. A plethora of measures assess the impact of these interventions on patient, professional and service delivery outcomes. Few measures assessed patient involvement directly, and it is unclear which proxy measures capture indicators of perceived involvement. Lack of conceptual clarity between intervention goals, the components of change and measures makes it difficult to see what types of intervention can best support change in services to ensure patients are more effectively involved in their healthcare.
Ageing workers’ mental health during COVID-19: a multilevel observational study on the association with the work environment, perceived workplace safety and individual factors
Authors: Rinsky-Halivni Lilah , Brammli-Greenberg Shuli , Christiani David C
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The stress and anxiety associated with the predisposition of ageing workers to severe COVID-19 illness, once occupationally infected, jeopardise their mental health. This study aimed to investigate the association between individual level, work environment exposure factors and perceived workplace safety with a decline in mental health of ageing workers from different industry sectors.

Design

Observational study, prevalence assessment of survey added to longitudinal cohort data.

Setting

The Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) from 27 countries in Europe and Israel participating in the COVID-19 survey (summer 2020) and having prepandemic waves’ SHARE data.

Participants

Workers aged 50–70 (n=6449) who attended their workplaces at least partially after the pandemic broke out.

Primary outcome measure

Perceived decline in mental health compared with preoutbreak status.

Results

Multilevel analyses demonstrated that 24.5% (95% CI 23.5% to 25.5%) of ageing workers in Europe experienced mental health decline associated with national-level self-reported COVID-19 burden. Workplace safety perception was the strongest predictor, as each one-point increase in unsafe perception was associated with 60% of mental health decline (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.47 to 1.74), explaining 30% of increased reported mental health symptoms of ageing workers. Safety perception mediates the mental health outcomes of the work environment, such as workplace contagion risk and work location. Female gender (OR=1.77, 95% CI 1.55 to 2.02), financial difficulties (OR=1.19, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.28), higher vulnerability index (comorbidities, age >60) (OR=1.11, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.18), pre-existing mental problems (OR=1.78, 95% CI 1.55 to 2.04) and increased national burden of COVID-19 (OR=1.01, 95% CI 1.0 to 1.02) were associated with declines in mental health, whereas exclusively working on-site was protective.

Conclusion

Vulnerable subgroups for mental health declines among ageing workers were revealed, which warrant their screening and employers’ evaluation of workplace conditions of ageing workers to prevent mental health-related implications. Workplace interventions should aim to reduce work environment influences on infection risk and mental distress.
Systematic review of personal finance training for physicians and a proposed curriculum
Authors: Igu Joel Akachukwu , Zakaria Sammy , Bar-Or Yuval D
Published: December 2022

Background

Many physicians complete medical school and graduate medical education (GME) burdened by high debt and financial illiteracy. This places them at increased risk for ill-informed financial decisions, which can result in increased stress and anxiety and a lower quality of life. Furthermore, financial concerns impact physicians’ specialty selections and may partly explain the scarcity of primary care practitioners. In response, medical wellness programmes have increasingly sought to offer personal finance education, but there is little guidance on optimal curricula. Our objective is to systematically review the existing literature examining physician financial literacy curricula and to recommend a standardised personal finance curriculum.

Methods

This review used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 checklist to report the results of literature searches in PubMed, ERIC, MedEdPortal, EBSCO, JSTOR and Google Scholar. Three researchers used predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria to select articles, including a focus on financial concepts applicable in the USA. Selected articles published between 2000 and 2022 were assessed using the BEME strength of findings tool, and further assessed using modified Côté-Turgeon and Kirkpatrick model qualitative analyses tools.

Findings

49 articles met all inclusion criteria. Ten specifically described personal finance literacy curricula for medical students or GME trainees, with varied criteria for selecting instructors, topics and outcomes. All studies reported that audiences were ill prepared for making financial decisions but strongly desired financial literacy education. Qualitative analysis revealed Strength of Findings summary scores ranging from 2 to 4, while applicable Kirkpatrick Model scores were all 3 or greater. Based on these findings, a 14-module personal finance curriculum is proposed by the researchers, along with learning objectives.

Interpretation

Although medical students and GME trainees value financial literacy, few publications report the impact of actual curricula. These efforts vary in depth, breadth and measured impact. Future research should focus on development of valid testing instruments specifically for physicians, content standardisation, selection of credible instructors and delivery formats.
Protocol for a meta-research study of protocols for diet or nutrition-related trials published in indexed journals: general aspects of study design, rationale and reporting limitations
Authors: Silva Flávia Moraes , Adegboye Amanda Rodrigues Amorim , Curioni Cintia , Gomes Fabio S , Collins Gary Stephen , Kac Gilberto , A De Beyer Jennifer , Cook Jonathan Alistair , Cheikh Ismail Leila , Page Matthew J , Khandpur Neha , Lamb Sarah , Hopewell Sally , Kirtley Shona , Durão Solange , Vorland Colby J , M Schlussel Michael
Published: December 2022

Introduction

The Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials (SPIRIT) reporting guideline establishes a minimum set of items to be reported in any randomised controlled trial (RCT) protocol. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) reporting guideline was developed to improve the reporting of interventions in RCT protocols and results papers. Reporting completeness in protocols of diet or nutrition-related RCTs has not been systematically investigated. We aim to identify published protocols of diet or nutrition-related RCTs, assess their reporting completeness and identify the main reporting limitations remaining in this field.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a meta-research study of RCT protocols published in journals indexed in at least one of six selected databases between 2012 and 2022. We have run a search in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Global Health using a search strategy designed to identify protocols of diet or nutrition-related RCTs. Two reviewers will independently screen the titles and abstracts of records yielded by the search in Rayyan. The full texts will then be read to confirm protocol eligibility. We will collect general study features (publication information, types of participants, interventions, comparators, outcomes and study design) of all eligible published protocols in this contemporary sample. We will assess reporting completeness in a randomly selected sample of them and identify their main reporting limitations. We will compare this subsample with the items in the SPIRIT and TIDieR statements. For all data collection, we will use data extraction forms in REDCap. This protocol is registered on the Open Science Framework (DOI:10.17605/OSF.IO/YWEVS).

Ethics and dissemination

This study will undertake a secondary analysis of published data and does not require ethical approval. The results will be disseminated through journals and conferences targeting stakeholders involved in nutrition research.
Practical guidance to handle missing values in the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25): a simulation study
Authors: Kawahara Takuya , Yamada Keiko , Terashima Ryohei , Takashima Ikumi , Tanaka Sakae , Ogata Toru , Chikuda Hirotaka , Miura Hiromasa , Nakamura Kozo , Ohe Takashi
Published: December 2022

Objectives

Despite the possible large number of missing values on the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale (GLFS-25), how we should treat them is unknown. In a simulation study, we investigated how to handle missing values in the GLFS-25.

Design, setting and participants

We used three datasets with different participant characteristics: community dwellers who could walk by themselves, outpatients of orthopaedics owing to pain, and patients who required surgery for total knee replacement or lumbar spinal canal stenosis.

Outcome measures

The missing items of the datasets were artificially created, and four statistical methods, complete case analysis, multiple imputation, single imputation using individual mean, and single imputation using individual domain average, were compared in terms of bias and mean squared error. Simulation studies were conducted to compare them under varying numbers of participants with missing values (5%–40%) and under varying numbers of missing items of GLFS-25 (4–16).

Results

Multiple imputation had the lowest root mean squared error. Complete case analysis showed the largest bias, and the performances of the single imputation were between those methods. The relative performances were similar across the three datasets. The absolute bias of the single imputation was<0.1. The bias and mean squared error of multiple imputation and single imputation were comparable when the number of missing items was less than or equal to eight.

Conclusions

Multiple imputation is preferable, although single imputation using subject average/subject domain average can be used with practically negligible bias as long as the number of missing items is up to 8 out of 25 items in each individual of the population.
Variability and performance of NHS England’s ‘reason to reside’ criteria in predicting hospital discharge in acute hospitals in England: a retrospective, observational cohort study
Authors: Sapey Elizabeth , Gallier Suzy , Evison Felicity , McNulty David , Reeves Katherine , Ball Simon
Published: December 2022

Objectives

NHS England (NHSE) advocates ‘reason to reside’ (R2R) criteria to support discharge planning. The proportion of patients without R2R and their rate of discharge are reported daily by acute hospitals in England. R2R has no interoperable standardised data model (SDM), and its performance has not been validated. We aimed to understand the degree of intercentre and intracentre variation in R2R-related metrics reported to NHSE, define an SDM implemented within a single centre Electronic Health Record to generate an electronic R2R (eR2R) and evaluate its performance in predicting subsequent discharge.

Design

Retrospective observational cohort study using routinely collected health data.

Setting

122 NHS Trusts in England for national reporting and an acute hospital in England for local reporting.

Participants

6 602 706 patient-days were analysed using 3-month national data and 1 039 592 patient-days, using 3-year single centre data.

Main outcome measures

Variability in R2R-related metrics reported to NHSE. Performance of eR2R in predicting discharge within 24 hours.

Results

There were high levels of intracentre and intercentre variability in R2R-related metrics (p<0.0001) but not in eR2R. Informedness of eR2R for discharge within 24 hours was low (J-statistic 0.09–0.12 across three consecutive years). In those remaining in hospital without eR2R, 61.2% met eR2R criteria on subsequent days (76% within 24 hours), most commonly due to increased NEWS2 (21.9%) or intravenous therapy administration (32.8%).

Conclusions

Reported R2R metrics are highly variable between and within acute Trusts in England. Although case-mix or community care provision may account for some variability, the absence of a SDM prevents standardised reporting. Following the development of a SDM in one acute Trust, the variability reduced. However, the performance of eR2R was poor, prone to change even when negative and unable to meaningfully contribute to discharge planning.
Feasibility and acceptability of NIDUS-Professional, a training and support intervention for homecare workers caring for clients living with dementia: a cluster-randomised feasibility trial protocol
Authors: Zabihi Sedigheh , Duffy Larisa , Kelleher Daniel , Lord Kathryn , Dar Ayesha , Koutsoubelis Freya , Banks Sara , Rapaport Penny , Mason Clare , Vickerstaff Victoria , Barber Julie A , Manthorpe Jill , Walters Kate , Lang Iain , Rockwood Kenneth , Duggan Sandra , Kales Helen , Cooper Claudia
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Most people living with dementia want to remain living in their own homes, and are supported to do so by family carers and homecare workers. There are concerns that homecare is often unable to meet the needs of this client group, with limited evidence regarding effective interventions to improve it for people living with dementia. We have developed a training and support programme for homecare workers (NIDUS-Professional) to be delivered alongside support sessions for people living with dementia and their family carers (NIDUS-Family). We aim to assess (1) its acceptability among homecare workers and employing agencies, and (2) the feasibility of homecare workers, people living with dementia and their family carers completing the outcomes of intervention in a future randomised controlled trial.

Methods and analysis

This is a cluster-randomised (2:1) single-blind, multisite feasibility trial. We aim to recruit 60–90 homecare workers, 30–60 clients living with dementia and their family carers through 6–9 English homecare agencies. In the intervention arm, homecare staff will be offered six group sessions on video call over three months, followed by monthly group sessions over the subsequent three-month period. Outcome measures will be collected at baseline and at six months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study received ethical approval on 7 January 2020 from the Camden & King’s Cross Research Ethics Committee. Study reference: 19/LO/1667. Findings will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed journal, conference presentation and blog to research and clinical audiences; we will attend forums to present findings to participating homecare agencies and their clients.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN15757555.
Epidemiological Study to Assess the Prevalence of Lung Cancer in patients with smoking-associated atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases: PREVALUNG study protocol
Authors: Boulate David , Fidelle Marine , Caramella Caroline , Issard Justin , Planché Olivier , Pradère Pauline , Garelik Daniel , Hache Océane , Lamrani Lilia , Zins Marc , Beaussier Hélène , Chatellier Gilles , Fadel Elie , Zitvogel Laurence , Besse Benjamin , Mercier Olaf
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Eligibility criteria definition for a lung cancer screening (LCS) is an unmet need. We hypothesised that patients with a history of atheromatous cardiovascular disease (ACVD) associated with tobacco consumption are at risk of lung cancer (LC). The main objective is to assess LC prevalence among patients with ACVD and history of tobacco consumption by using low-dose chest CT scan. Secondary objectives include the evaluation LCS in this population and the constitution of a biological biobank to stratify risk of LC.

Methods and analysis

We are performing a monocentric ‘single-centre’ prospective study among patients followed up in adult cardiovascular programmes of vascular surgery, cardiology and cardiac surgery recruited from 18 November 2019 to 18 May 2021. The inclusion criteria are (1) age 45–75 years old, (2) history of ACVD and (3) history of daily tobacco consumption for 10 years prior to onset of ACVD. Exclusion criteria are symptoms of LC, existing follow-up for pulmonary nodule, fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, resting dyspnoea and active pulmonary infectious disease. We targeted the inclusion of 500 patients. After inclusion (V0), patients are scheduled for a low-dose chest CT and blood and faeces harvesting within 7 months (V1). Each patient is scheduled for a follow-up by telephonic visits at month 3 (V2), month 6 (V3) and month 12 (V4) after V1. Each patient is followed up until 1 year after V1 (14 February 2023). We measure LC prevalence and quantify the National Lung Screening Trial and Dutch-Belgian Randomized Lung Cancer Screening Trial (NELSON) trial eligibility criteria, radiation, positive screening, false positivity, rate of localised LC diagnosis, quality of life with the Short Form 12 (SF-12) and anxiety with the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory A and B (STAI-YA and STAI-YB, respectively), smoking cessation and onset of cardiovascular and oncological events within 1 year of follow-up. A case–control study nested in the cohort is performed to identify clinical or biological candidate biomarkers of LC.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved according the French Jardé law; the study is referenced at the French ‘Agence Nationale de Sécurité du Médicament et des Produits de Santé’ (reference ID RCB: 2019-A00262-55) and registered on clinicaltrial.gov. The results of the study will be presented after the closure of the follow-up scheduled on 14 February 2023 and disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03976804.
Building capacity for the use of systems science to support local government public health planning: a case study of the VicHealth Local Government Partnership in Victoria, Australia
Authors: O'Halloran Siobhan , Hayward Joshua , Strugnell Claudia , Felmingham Tiana , Poorter Jaimie , Kilpatrick Stephanie , Fraser Penny , Needham Cindy , Rhook Ebony , DeMaio Alessandro , Allender Steven
Published: December 2022

Objective

To present an approach to build capacity for the use of systems science to support local communities in municipal public health and well-being planning.

Design

Case study.

Setting

Local government authorities participating in the VicHealth Local Government Partnership in Victoria, Australia.

Participants

Local government staff members were trained in community-based system dynamics (CBSD), and group model building (GMB) techniques to mobilise local community efforts. The trained local government facilitation teams then delivered GMB workshops to community stakeholder groups from 13 local government areas (LGA)s.

Main outcomes

Training in CBSD was conducted with council facilitation teams in 13 LGAs, followed by the local delivery of GMB workshops 1–3 to community stakeholders. Causal loop diagrams (CLD) representing localised drivers of mental well-being, healthy eating, active living or general health and well-being of children and young people were developed by community stakeholders. Locally tailored action ideas were generated such as well-being classes in school, faster active transport and access to free and low-cost sporting programmes

Results

Overall, 111 local government staff participated in CBSD training. Thirteen CLDs were developed, with the stakeholders that included children, young people and community members, who had participated in the GMB workshops across all 13 council sites. Workshop 3 had the highest total number of participants (n=301), followed by workshop 1 (n=287) and workshop 2 (n=171).

Conclusions

Local facilitation of the CBSD process has developed community informed and locally relevant CLDs that will be used to lead local action to improve the well-being of children and young people. Training employees in CBSD is one approach to increase systems thinking capacity within local government.
Germline mismatch repair (MMR) gene analyses from English NHS regional molecular genomics laboratories 1996–2020: development of a national resource of patient-level genomics laboratory records
Authors: Loong Lucy , Huntley Catherine , McRonald Fiona , Santaniello Francesco , Pethick Joanna , Torr Bethany , Allen Sophie , Tulloch Oliver , Goel Shilpi , Shand Brian , Rahman Tameera , Luchtenborg Margreet , Garrett Alice , Barber Richard , Bedenham Tina , Bourn David , Bradshaw Kirsty , Brooks Claire , Bruty Jonathan , Burghel George J , Butler Samantha , Buxton Chris , Callaway Alison , Callaway Jonathan , Drummond James , Durkie Miranda , Field Joanne , Jenkins Lucy , McVeigh Terri P , Mountford Roger , Nyanhete Rodney , Petrides Evgenia , Robinson Rachel , Scott Tracy , Stinton Victoria , Tellez James , Wallace Andrew J , Yarram-Smith Laura , Sahan Kate , Hallowell Nina , Eccles Diana M , Pharoah Paul , Tischkowitz Marc , Antoniou Antonis C , Evans D Gareth , Lalloo Fiona , Norbury Gail , Morris Eva , Burn John , Hardy Steven , Turnbull Clare
Published: December 2022

Objective

To describe national patterns of National Health Service (NHS) analysis of mismatch repair (MMR) genes in England using individual-level data submitted to the National Disease Registration Service (NDRS) by the NHS regional molecular genetics laboratories.

Design

Laboratories submitted individual-level patient data to NDRS against a prescribed data model, including (1) patient identifiers, (2) test episode data, (3) per-gene results and (4) detected sequence variants. Individualised per-laboratory algorithms were designed and applied in NDRS to extract and map the data to the common data model. Laboratory-level MMR activity audit data from the Clinical Molecular Genetics Society/Association of Clinical Genomic Science were used to assess early years’ missing data.

Results

Individual-level data from patients undergoing NHS MMR germline genetic testing were submitted from all 13 English laboratories performing MMR analyses, comprising in total 16 722 patients (9649 full-gene, 7073 targeted), with the earliest submission from 2000. The NDRS dataset is estimated to comprise >60% of NHS MMR analyses performed since inception of NHS MMR analysis, with complete national data for full-gene analyses for 2016 onwards. Out of 9649 full-gene tests, 2724 had an abnormal result, approximately 70% of which were (likely) pathogenic. Data linkage to the National Cancer Registry demonstrated colorectal cancer was the most frequent cancer type in which full-gene analysis was performed.

Conclusion

The NDRS MMR dataset is a unique national pan-laboratory amalgamation of individual-level clinical and genomic patient data with pseudonymised identifiers enabling linkage to other national datasets. This growing resource will enable longitudinal research and can form the basis of a live national genomic disease registry.