bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malnutrition and its association with readmission and death within 7 days and 8–180 days postdischarge in older patients: a prospective observational study
Authors: Sharma Yogesh , Miller Michelle , Kaambwa Billingsley , Shahi Rashmi , Hakendorf Paul , Horwood Chris , Thompson Campbell
Published: May 2024

Objective

The relationship between admission nutritional status and clinical outcomes following hospital discharge is not well established. This study investigated whether older patients’ nutritional status at admission predicts unplanned readmission or death in the very early or late periods following hospital discharge.

Design, setting and participants

The study prospectively recruited 297 patients ≥60 years old who were presenting to the General Medicine Department of a tertiary care hospital in Australia. Nutritional status was assessed at admission by using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) tool, and patients were classified as either nourished (PG-SGA class A) or malnourished (PG-SGA classes B and C). A multivariate logistic regression model was used to adjust for other covariates known to influence clinical outcomes and to determine whether malnutrition is a predictor for early (0–7 days) or late (8–180 days) readmission or death following discharge.

Outcome measures

The impact of nutritional status was measured on a combined endpoint of any readmission or death within 0–7 days and between 8 and 180 days following hospital discharge.

Results

Within 7 days following discharge, 29 (10.5%) patients had an unplanned readmission or death whereas an additional 124 (50.0%) patients reached this combined endpoint within 8–180 days postdischarge. Malnutrition was associated with a significantly higher risk of combined endpoint of readmissions or death both within 7 days (OR 4.57, 95% CI 1.69 to 12.37, P<0.001) and within 8–180 days (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.19 to 3.28, P=0.007) following discharge and this risk remained significant even after adjustment for other covariates.

Conclusions

Malnutrition in older patients at the time of hospital admission is a significant predictor of readmission or death both in the very early and in the late periods following hospital discharge. Nutritional state should be included in future risk prediction models.

Trial registration number

ACTRN No. 12614000833662; Post-results.
Social support in maintaining mental health and quality of life among community-dwelling older people with functional limitations in Malaysia: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Balqis-Ali Nur Zahirah , Fun Weng Hong
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the mediation role of perceived social support in the relationship between functional limitations, depressive symptoms and quality of life among older people in Malaysia.

Setting

The Malaysian National Health Morbidity Survey 2018: Elderly Health was a cross-sectional health community survey among adults aged 50 and above.

Participants

3977 community-dwelling older Malaysians aged 60 and above.

Outcome measures

Functional limitations were defined as personal activities of daily living (PADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), tested in separate paths in all analyses. PADL was measured using the Barthel Index, while IADL was measured using the Lawton and Brody scale. Perceived social support, depressive symptoms and quality of life were measured using the Duke Social Support Index, Geriatric Depression Scale-14 and Control, Autonomy, Self-Realisation and Pleasure-19 tools. We used mediation analysis through structural equation modelling to explore the role of perceived social support.

Results

Perceived social support mediated the relationship between PADL and IADL with depressive symptoms, with the indirect effects at −0.079 and −0.103, respectively (p<0.001). Similarly, perceived social support mediated the relationship between PADL and IADL with quality of life, with the indirect effects at 0.238 and 0.301, respectively (p<0.001). We performed serial multiple mediation analysis and found that perceived social support and depressive symptoms mediated the path between PADL and IADL with quality of life, with the indirect effects at 0.598 and 0.747, respectively (p<0.001). The relationship between functional limitations and all outcomes remained significant in all mediation analyses.

Conclusion

The present study provides evidence that perceived social support relieves the influence of functional limitations on depressive symptoms and declining quality of life among older people. Therefore, it is imperative to establish a social support system to improve the overall well-being of older people.
Nurses’ and midwives’ experiences of clinical supervision in practice: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Gill-Meeley Nicola , Hernon Orlaith , Cuddihy Ciaran , Frawley Timothy , Smyth Siobhan
Published: May 2024

Objective

To outline and examine what evidence exists related to nurses’ and midwives’ experiences of participating in clinical supervision.

Introduction

The practice of clinical supervision is increasingly prevalent in nursing and midwifery, yet disparity remains in relation to professionals’ understanding and experience of this clinical support and how it is implemented in practice. This scoping review will identify the available evidence and gaps in knowledge that exist in relation to nurses’ and midwives’ experience of this practice and examine how the various forms are defined in the literature.

Methods and analysis

Comprehensive searches of CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE (EBSCO), PsycINFO (EBSCO), Embase, Scopus and the Cochrane Library will be carried out. Grey literature will also be searched and all results will be screened independently by two reviewers using identified inclusion and exclusion criteria. All empirical data that identify and report nurses’ and midwives’ experiences of clinical supervision will be included in the review. Studies that include other health and social care professionals will be excluded where the nursing and midwifery cohort is not reported independently. Data from all relevant studies will be extracted using a validated adapted data extraction form. Our review will be guided by the Joanne Briggs Institute Methodology and findings will be guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols Extension for Scoping Reviews statement.

Ethics and dissemination

This review does not require ethical approval. Our dissemination strategy includes peer-reviewed publication, presentation and conferences and sharing through stakeholder networks.
PRESOLRE: study protocol for a primary school-based, cluster randomised controlled trial of three sun exposure risk prevention strategies on Reunion Island
Authors: Dugast Charline , Bruneau Léa , Fianu Adrian , Ferdynus Cyril , Boussaid Karim , Vuichard Juliette , Duloutre Floreana , Dumez Jessica , Sultan-Bichat Nathalie , Bertolotti Antoine
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Reunion Island, a French overseas department, is located in the southern hemisphere, close to the Capricorn tropic. This island has a multicultural and multiethnic population of 860 000 inhabitants, a quarter of whom are at high risk of developing skin cancer due to intense ultraviolet radiation. Melanoma is responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. The early prevention of melanoma is based on sun protection in childhood, but French regulations are not adapted to the environmental conditions of this tropical region.

The main objective of our study is to evaluate the effectiveness of three sun protection programs conducted in Reunionese primary schools through a pupil knowledge questionnaire.

Methods and analysis

PRESOLRE is an interventional, open-label, cluster-randomised controlled trial, in four parallel arms, that is being conducted throughout 2022–2023 on Reunion Island. The trial design assumes an escalation interventional effect using: first, a control arm without proposed intervention (arm 1); second, an arm whose classes are encouraged to use the validated educational programme ‘Living With the Sun’ (LWS) (arm 2); third, an arm whose classes are encouraged to use both ‘LWS’ combined with ‘Mission Soleil Réunion’s sun protection awareness programme (arm 3); fourth, an arm benefiting from an intervention similar to arm 3, combined with the distribution of hats, sunglasses and sun creams (arm 4). In all, 1780 pupils from 18 classes of 20 pupils, on average, will be included. Randomisation applies to the classes of pupils (so defined as clusters). The primary outcome is based on the proportion of correct answers to the knowledge questions after the awareness programme, compared between the four arms using a linear mixed model with random intercept.

Ethics and dissemination

The study obtained ethics approval in 2022 (ID: 2022-A00350-43). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT05367180.
Restore and Rebuild (R&R): a protocol for a phase 2, randomised control trial to compare R&R as a treatment for moral injury-related mental health difficulties in UK military veterans to treatment as usual
Authors: Williamson Victoria , Murphy Dominic , Bonson Amanda , Biscoe Natasha , Leightley Daniel , Aldridge Vicky , Greenberg N
Published: May 2024

Background

Exposure to potentially morally injurious events is increasingly recognised as a concern across a range of occupational groups, including UK military veterans. Moral injury-related mental health difficulties can be challenging for clinicians to treat and there is currently no validated treatment available for UK veterans. We developed Restore and Rebuild (R&R) as a treatment for UK veterans struggling with moral injury-related mental health difficulties. This trial aims to examine whether it is feasible to conduct a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) of R&R treatment compared with a treatment-as-usual (TAU) control group.

Methods

We will use a feasibility single-blind, single-site RCT design. The target population will be UK military veterans with moral injury-related mental health difficulties. We will recruit N=46 veteran patients who will be randomly allocated to R&R (n=23) or TAU (n=23). Patients randomised to R&R will receive the 20-session one-to-one treatment, delivered online. Veterans allocated to TAU, as there are currently no manualised treatments for moral injury-related mental health problems available, will receive the one-to-one treatment (online) typically provided to veterans who enter the mental health service for moral injury-related mental health difficulties. We will collect outcome measures of moral injury, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), alcohol misuse, common mental disorders and trauma memory at pretreatment baseline (before randomisation), end of treatment, 12 weeks and 24 weeks post-treatment. The primary outcome will be the proportion of patients who screen positive for PTSD and moral injury-related distress post-treatment.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial will establish whether R&R is feasible, well-tolerated and beneficial treatment for veterans with moral injury-related mental health difficulties. If so, the results of the trial will be widely disseminated and R&R may improve access to effective care for those who struggle following moral injury and reduce the associated negative consequences for veterans, their families and wider society.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN99573523.
Prognostic factors for the development of upper limb dysfunctions after breast cancer: the UPLIFT-BC prospective longitudinal cohort study protocol
Authors: De Groef An , Vets Nieke , Devoogdt Nele , Smeets Ann , Van Assche Dieter , Emmerzaal Jill , Dams Lore , Verbeelen Kaat , Fieuws Steffen , Baets Liesbet De
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Upper limb (UL) dysfunctions are highly prevalent in people after breast cancer and have a great impact on performing activities in daily living. To improve care, a more comprehensive understanding of the development and persistence of UL dysfunctions is needed. Therefore, the UPLIFT-BC study will primarily examine the prognostic value of different factors at the body functions and structures, environmental and personal level of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework at 1-month post-surgery for persisting UL dysfunctions at 6 months after finishing cancer treatment.

Methods and analysis

A prospective longitudinal cohort study, running from 1-week pre-surgery to 6 months post-local cancer treatment, is performed in a cohort of 250 women diagnosed with primary breast cancer. Different potentially prognostic factors to UL dysfunctions, covering body functions and structures, environmental and personal factors of the ICF, are assessed pre-surgically and at different time points post-surgery. The primary aim is to investigate the prognostic value of these factors at 1-month post-surgery for subjective UL function (ie, QuickDASH) at 6 months post-cancer treatment, that is, 6 months post-radiotherapy or post-surgery (T3), depending on the individuals’ cancer treatment trajectory. In this, factors with relevant prognostic value pre-surgery are considered as well. Similar analyses are performed with an objective measure for UL function (ie, accelerometry) and a composite score of the combination of subjective and objective UL function. Second, in the subgroup of participants who receive radiotherapy, the prognostic value of the same factors is explored at 1-month post-radiotherapy and 6 months post-surgery. A forward stepwise selection strategy is used to obtain these multivariable prognostic models.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of UZ/KU Leuven (reference number s66248). The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals and will be presented at several research conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05297591.
Effect of a 3D-printed reconstruction automated matching system for selecting the size of a left double-lumen tube: a study protocol for a prospective randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Lantao , Zhu Yihao , Yin Feng , Yu Hong , Wang Huaiming , Xu Yi , Fei Fei , Liu Wusong , Duan Bowen , Wang Fei , Jia Ying , Zhang Hongwei
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Lung isolation is primarily accomplished using a double-lumen tube (DLT) or bronchial blocker. A precise and accurate size of the DLT is a prerequisite for ensuring its accurate placement. Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction technology can be used to accurately reproduce tracheobronchial structures to improve the accuracy of DLT size selection. Therefore, we have developed automatic comparison software for 3D reconstruction based on CT data (3DRACS). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficiency of using 3DRACS to select the DLT size for endobronchial intubation in comparison with using the ‘blind’ DLT intubation method to determine the DLT size, which is based on height and sex.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, single-centre, double-blind randomised controlled trial. In total, 200 patients scheduled for lung resection using a left DLT will be randomly allocated to the 3D group or the control group at a 1:1 ratio. A 3DRACS will be used for the 3D group to determine the size of the DLT, while in the case of the control group, the size of the DLT will be determined according to patient height and sex. The primary outcome is the success rate of placement of the left DLT without fibreoptic bronchoscopy (FOB). The secondary outcomes include the following: successful intubation time, degree of pulmonary atrophy, grade of airway injury, oxygenation during one-lung ventilation, postoperative sore throat and hoarseness, and number of times FOB is used.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained from our local ethics committee (approval number: SCCHEC-02-2022-155). Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants before randomisation, providing them with clear instructions about the purpose of the study. The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT06258954.
33 The legacy of the northern ireland conflict in palliative care
Authors: O’Hara Brendan
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Understanding the impact of the Northern Ireland ‘Troubles’/‘conflict’ on a particular area of health care – palliative care – which has received little, if any, previous research focus. The research was carried out for a dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment for the degree of Master of Philosophy.

Aim(s)

To investigate how the legacy of the Northern Ireland conflict may be encountered by professionals providing palliative care. To investigate how the distinct context of Northern Ireland has impacted on palliative care practice.

Method

Interviews were carried out with nine professionals with experience and interest in the provision of support to people living with a terminal illness.

Participants reflected experience from voluntary and statutory services and across a wide geography of Northern Ireland. Participants included: three nurses; two doctors; a social worker; a chaplain; a complementary therapist and a welfare officer.

Results

This research opened up a dialogue between the disciplines of peacebuilding and palliative care. The impact of the Troubles has had an effect on the delivery of palliative care, through the attitudes and influences on those who provide the care and those they care for.

Conclusion

The influences of the religious divide, the silencing, and the traumas of the past are not something that the care giver is apart from - they are very much influenced by them. The sensitivities around the Catholic/Protestant divide, the silencing, and restricting opportunities to talk about ‘Troubles’-related trauma, could prevent people from having appropriate palliative care.
54 Improving assessment of pain in palliative care
Authors: Hall Gusa , Gregory Amanda
Published: May 2024

Background

Evidence has shown it is essential within palliative care that pain assessment is consistent, effective and documented in order to achieve high quality pain control.1

Aim

The aim of this project was to implement a validated pain assessment tool into clinical practice at an independent hospice.

Method

A systematic literature review with databases AHMED, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, CINAHL and EMBASE to identify validated pain assessment tools was conducted. This was followed by a retrospective audit of 40 clinical records, measured against the Hospice UK pain management audit tool as a percentage of compliance.

Results

6 publications (from 500) met the systematic literature review inclusion criteria and identified 11 pain assessment tools. Analysis of the literature concurred with the European Association of Palliative Care recommendations in the use of the multi-dimensional Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) as a pain assessment tool within palliative care. The results of the audit highlighted inconsistencies in documentation of pain assessment across clinical settings and between clinicians. The inpatient unit scored a higher percentage of compliance in the three main audit categories.

Conclusion

The results indicated that pain assessment and management is not documented consistently particularly within the community setting. Evidence from the systematic literature review highlighted that the adoption of a set process in conjunction with the BPI pain assessment tool will ensure essential elements of pain assessment are consistently addressed and documented to improve pain control. The Hospice is in the process of implementing the BPI and pain assessment subsequently will be reaudited.

Reference

. Fayers, P., Hjermstad, M., Klepstad, P., Loge, J., Caraceni, A., Hanks, G., Borchgrevink, P. and Kaasa, S. (2011). The dimensionality of pain: Palliative care and chronic pain patients differ in their reports of pain intensity and pain interference. Pain, 152(7), pp.1608–1620.
Dating apps as health allies? Examining the opportunities and challenges of dating apps as partners in public health
Authors: Garcia-Iglesias Jaime , Heaphy Brian , Mowlabocus Sharif , Yodovich Neta , Nagington Maurice , Patton Karissa , Atherton Sophie , Ford Andrea
Published: May 2024

In recent years, dating apps have become important allies in public health. In this paper, we explore the implications of partnering with dating apps for health promotion. We consider the opportunities and challenges inherent in these collaborations, paying special attention to privacy, trust, and user care in a digital environment.

Despite their potential as targeted health promotion tools, dating apps raise significant ethical concerns, including the commodification of user data and privacy breaches, which highlight the complexities of blending healthcare initiatives with for-profit digital platforms. Furthermore, the paper delves into issues of discrimination, harassment and unequal access within these apps, factors which can undermine public health efforts.

We develop a nuanced framework, emphasising the development of transparent data policies, the decoupling of content moderation from health initiatives and a commitment to combat discrimination. We underscore the importance of embedding app-based health initiatives within broader care pathways, ensuring comprehensive support beyond the digital domain. This essay offers vital insights for public health practitioners, app developers and policymakers navigating the intersection of digital innovation and healthcare.
Digital interventions for STI and HIV partner notification: a scoping review
Authors: Woodward Charlotte , Bloch Sonja , McInnes-Dean Amelia , Lloyd Karen C , McLeod Julie , Saunders John , Flowers Paul , Estcourt Claudia S , Gibbs Jo
Published: May 2024

Background

Partner notification (PN) is key to the control of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Digital interventions have been used to facilitate PN. A scoping review was conducted to describe the interventions used, user preferences and acceptability of digital PN interventions from patient and partner perspectives.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted of eight databases for articles published in English, available online with digital PN outcome data. Articles were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Quantitative and qualitative data were synthesised and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Twenty-six articles met the eligibility criteria. Articles were heterogeneous in quality and design, with the majority using quantitative methods. Nine articles focused solely on bacterial STIs (five on syphilis; four on chlamydia), one on HIV, two on syphilis and HIV, and 14 included multiple STIs, of which 13 included HIV. There has been a shift over time from digital PN interventions solely focusing on notifying partners, to interventions including elements of partner management, such as facilitation of partner testing and treatment, or sharing of STI test results (between index patients and tested sex partners). Main outcomes measured were number of partners notified (13 articles), partner testing/consultation (eight articles) and treatment (five articles). Relationship type and STI type appeared to affect digital PN preferences for index patients with digital methods preferred for casual rather than established partner types. Generally, partners preferred face-to-face PN.

Conclusion

Digital PN to date mainly focuses on notifying partners rather than comprehensive partner management. Despite an overall preference for face-to-face PN with partners, digital PN could play a useful role in improving outcomes for certain partner types and infections. Further research needs to understand the impact of digital PN interventions on specific PN outcomes, their effectiveness for different infections and include health economic evaluations.
Remnant cholesterol is associated with unstable carotid plaque in a neurologically healthy population
Authors: Li Wenbo , Liu Yang , Liu Jie , Guo Qirui , Li Jing , Wang Anxin , Zheng Huaguang
Published: May 2024

Background

Remnant cholesterol (RC) is considered to be one of the most significant and important risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Nonetheless, the association between RC and unstable carotid plaque remains unclear. Our primary objective is to ascertain whether RC exhibits an independent and significant association with unstable carotid plaque in a neurologically healthy population.

Methods

In the cross-sectional study, we enrolled neurologically healthy participants who visited our centre for health checkups between 2021 and 2022. All eligible participants underwent a standardised questionnaire, physical examinations and laboratory testing. The carotid plaque was evaluated with a standard carotid ultrasound and an advanced ultrasound imaging technique called superb microvascular imaging. The correlation between lipids and unstable carotid plaque was primarily assessed utilising univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The study totally enrolled 1100 participants who had an average age of 57.00 years (IQR: 49.00–63.00), with 67.55% being men. Among the participants, 321 (29.18%) had unstable carotid plaque. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, higher RC had an independent association with an elevated incidence of unstable carotid plaque compared with the lowest concentrations of RC (OR=1.673, 95% CI 1.113 to 2.515, p=0.0134), but not other lipids. In addition, apolipoprotein A1 was negatively related to unstable carotid plaque (OR=0.549, 95% CI 0.364 to 0.830, p=0.0045).

Conclusions

Elevated concentrations of RC are independently and excellently correlated with unstable carotid plaque within a neurologically healthy population.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality in meat and dairy goat kids fed a concentrate-based diet or allotted to an intensive rotational grazing system
Authors: Brassard M.-È. , Chouinard P.Y. , Tremblay G.F. , Gervais R. , Pouliot É. , Tessier L. , Gariépy C. , Cinq-Mars D.
Published: May 2024

Forty meat or dairy kids were blocked within breed according to body weight. Kids within each block were then randomly allotted to a concentrate-based diet or an intensive rotational grazing system. Kids fed the concentrate-based diet were offered hay ad libitum and fixed amounts of whole corn and soybean meal to meet the requirements for maintenance and daily gain. Grazing kids from each breed were stocked in groups and offered a new paddock every day. Dry matter intake was not different between breeds. Meat kids had a greater average daily gain than dairy kids, but feeding treatments did not affect the growth rate. Dairy kids had greater anterior cuts (neck and shoulder), whereas meat kids tended to have greater posterior cuts (loin and leg). Meat kids accumulated more fat when they were fed concentrate in comparison with pasture, whereas this variable tended to be less influenced by dietary treatments in dairy kids. Meat of pasture-fed kids had greater Warner–Bratzler shear force and glycolytic potential, and lower ultimate pH than meat of concentrate-fed kids. The n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio of intramuscular fat was almost 4-fold greater in concentrate- than pasture-fed kids; this ratio was 1.4-fold greater in dairy than meat kids.
Nursery cultural practices influence morphological and physiological aspen seedling traits: implications for post-fire restoration
Authors: Dixit Aalap , Burney Owen
Published: May 2024

Aspen forests are threatened by the impacts of a changing climate and are showing large-scale mortality with meager natural regeneration to restore these loses. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for high-quality aspen seedlings to assist with forest restoration efforts. Nursery cultural practices can be used to alter aspen seedling traits to improve adaptability to dry planting conditions. In this study, the effects of container size (SC10 and D30; 158 and 490 mL, respectively) and nursery irrigation treatment (high and low irrigation; 90% and 70% container capacity, respectively) on seedling growth and a suite of morphological and physiological traits were investigated. The combination of large container size and low irrigation treatment resulted in seedlings with lowest height-to-diameter ratio and specific leaf area, which are desired traits for seedling performance on dry sites. Additionally, seedlings exposed to low irrigation conditions at the nursery stage had a lower (more negative) osmotic potential at full turgor, suggesting a higher likelihood of drought tolerance. Overall results from this study provide insight into utilizing nursery cultural practices to produce seedlings with target characteristics that may ultimately lead to establishment on harsh, dry planting sites in large-scale reforestation projects.
Thermodynamics of the quantum Schwarzschild black hole
Authors: Balart Leonardo , Panotopoulos Grigoris , Rincón Ángel
Published: May 2024

We discuss some thermodynamic properties as well as the stability of a quantum Schwarzschild black hole, comparing the results with those obtained within a bumblebee gravity model. In particular, the Hawking temperature, $$T_{{\text{H}}}$$

T
H

, the entropy, S, the heat capacity, C, and the Gibbs free energy, G, are computed for both cases. In addition to that, we compute the Brown-York quasilocal energy and compare the solution with the Schwarzschild case. We find that in both cases (quantum Schwarzschild and bumblebee gravity model) the temperature, the entropy, and the heat capacity show the same functional form, under the replacement $$\lambda ^2 \rightarrow \ell$$

λ
2

→
ℓ

and vice versa. Specifically, the temperature is found to be lower compared to the classical (Schwarzschild) solution; whereas, the entropy is computed to be larger. Moreover, the heat capacity becomes more negative. Notably, a distinct contrast emerges in obtaining the Gibbs free energy between these two cases, and this distinction appears to stem from the ADM mass.
PREFACE — SPECIAL ISSUE ON FRACTALS AND LOCAL FRACTIONAL CALCULUS: RECENT ADVANCES AND FUTURE CHALLENGES
Authors: YANG XIAO-JUN , BALEANU DUMITRU , TENREIRO MACHADO J. A. , CATTANI CARLO
Published: May 2024

Fractal geometry plays an important role in the description of the characteristics of nature. Local fractional calculus, a new branch of mathematics, is used to handle the non-differentiable problems in mathematical physics and engineering sciences. The local fractional inequalities, local fractional ODEs and local fractional PDEs via local fractional calculus are studied. Fractional calculus is also considered to express the fractal behaviors of the functions, which have fractal dimensions. The interesting problems from fractional calculus and fractals are reported. With the scaling law, the scaling-law vector calculus via scaling-law calculus is suggested in detail. Some special functions related to the classical, fractional, and power-law calculus are also presented to express the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts function, Mittag-Leffler function and Weierstrass–Mandelbrot function. They have a relation to the ODEs, PDEs, fractional ODEs and fractional PDEs in real-world problems. Theory of the scaling-law series via Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts function is suggested to handle real-world problems. The hypothesis for the tempered Xi function is proposed as the Fractals Challenge, which is a new challenge in the field of mathematics. The typical applications of fractal geometry are proposed in real-world problems.
Integrated Reporting and the Informativeness of Financial Analysts’ Stock Recommendations
Authors: Baboukardos Diogenis , Kopita Anastasia
Published: May 2024

Synopsis

The research problem

The purpose of this study was to examine the market reaction to sell-side analyst recommendation revisions issued under an integrated reporting (IR) approach.

Motivation

Advocates of this corporate reporting approach argue that IR enhances capital markets’ information environment by rendering investors better able to assess the value creation process of a firm. Recent empirical studies corroborate this argument. Considering the central role of financial intermediaries, we investigated whether the informativeness of analyst recommendation revisions is associated with the adoption of IR and the quality of integrated reports.

The test hypotheses

We tested whether the informativeness of analyst recommendation revisions decreases or increases after the mandatory adoption of an IR approach. Furthermore, we tested whether the informativeness is negatively or positively related to the quality of the released integrated report after the mandatory adoption of an IR approach.

Target population

We focused on the South African capital market, which is the only setting where IR is mandated. We utilized a sample of 3,201 recommendation revisions made within a 3-year window around the mandatory IR adoption.

Adopted methodology

This study used ordinary least square (OLS) regressions and applied difference-in-differences as well as instrumental variable approaches.

Analyses

We modeled the market reaction to the recommendation revisions as a function of the period in which the recommendations are announced (i.e., pre- or post-adoption), along with other factors affecting market reaction. In subsequent tests, we also modeled the market reaction to the recommendation revisions as a function of the quality of a firm’s integrated report.

Findings

We found strong evidence that analysts’ revisions exhibited economically and statistically significantly lower information content under IR. Moreover, we found that upgrades and downgrades issued in the post-adoption period were less informative when issued for firms with high-quality integrated reports. Overall, results showed that the benefit of acquiring advice from analysts became more marginal under an IR approach.
Exploring Environmental Regulation Instruments and Their Impact on Eco-Innovation Practices Among SMEs: The Mediating Role of Environmental Orientation
Authors: mady Khalid , Battour Mohamed , Bin-Obaidellah Sabri Shaker Ashoor , Al Balushi Maha Khamis , Kennedy Rowan Elodie
Published: May 2024

Despite a vast body of eco-innovation literature investigating the assumption that environmental regulations encourage the implementation of eco-innovative practices, previous research on eco-innovation and environmental regulations has yielded inconsistent findings. By considering the heterogeneity of environmental regulation and eco-innovations, this study sheds light on how different environmental regulation instruments can facilitate and enhance eco-innovation practices, along with the role of environmental orientation in mediating the relationships. The study surveyed 188 managers and owners and utilised the partial least squares-structural equation model as the analytical method. Results showed that environmental regulatory mechanisms have no direct impact on eco-innovation. However, the study has found that environmentally oriented SMEs respond to strict environmental policies and regulations by undertaking eco-innovation practices. Furthermore, market-based instruments provide firms with strong environmental orientation and economic incentives to foster eco-process innovations. The study offers practical insights for policymakers and SME managers, in addition to advancing the knowledge base.
Communication—Fueling from the Electrochemistry of Halide Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Stamenkovic Branimir , Meng Ying Shirley , Moreau Philippe , Gaubicher Joel
Published: May 2024

Unveiling the electrochemistry of solid-state Li2ZrCl6 halide electrolyte, we reveal its triple function as an ion conductor and a supplementary reversible, and sacrificial, electron source/sink. This groundbreaking discovery leads to a remarkable long-term enhancement of the specific capacity of industry-relevant heavily loaded LiFePO4 electrodes by several tens of percent, while significantly amplifying that of Si-based or anode-less full cells through effective compensation for side reactions. We show that these effects can potentially be tuned by adjusting the initial xLiCl-ZrCl4 composition of the solid electrolyte, which may thus become a new and mighty parameter for balancing the two electrodes.
Fabrication and Characterization of Functionally Graded Nanocomposites: Impact of Graphene and Vanadium Carbide on Aluminum Matrix
Authors: Moustafa Essam B. , Said Mohamed , Aljabri Abdulrahman , Taha Mohammed A. , Youness Rasha A. , Hussein Hossameldin
Published: May 2024

Functional graded nanocomposites (FGNCs) based on Al are artificially tailored heterogeneous materials intended to serve the demand for diverse and contradicting properties used in various industrial applications. FGNCs and hybrid FGNCs (HFGNCs) based on Al reinforced with graphene and vanadium carbide (VC) were prepared using powder metallurgy techniques and investigated. Both samples were designed with a gradient composition, where the bottom layer consisted of 100% pure Al, followed by three consecutive layers containing progressively increasing amounts of reinforcement. The incorporation of graphene and VC into layer powders resulted in a decrease in both particle and crystal dimensions compared to pure Al. Adding graphene has a negative effect on bulk density samples, while VC has a positive effect. Reinforcing materials led to a decrease in thermal conductivity that reached 26.7% for samples reinforced with VC reinforcement, except for FGNCs reinforced with graphene, which increased by ∼3.3 compared to Al. The samples’ CTE and electrical conductivity values decreased, although adding graphene alone led to a slight decrease in electrical conductivity. A significant improvement in all mechanical properties was noted with additional. The HFGCNs reinforced with the largest amount of hybrid reinforcement recorded an improvement in CTE value, Young’s modulus, and compressive strength by about 38.1%, 22.2%, and 20.5%, respectively, compared to Al.
The impact of exercise training on muscle sympathetic nerve activity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Meyer Sarah E. , Kimber Miranda , Maier Lauren E. , Matenchuk Brittany , Moldenhauer Ramiah , de Waal Stephanie , Sivak Allison , Davenport Margie H. , Steinback Craig 'D.
Published: May 2024

This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests exercise training reduces muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA), which may be valuable for improving cardiovascular health. The reduction in burst incidence was greater among individuals with cardiovascular disease when compared with those without; exercise training may be particularly beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular disease. Meta-regression analyses demonstrated a dose-response relationship, where individuals with higher sympathetic activity preintervention had greater reductions in sympathetic activity post-intervention.
Mechanisms of whole body, respiratory, acid-base buffering: a first computer-model test of three physicochemical, acid-base theories
Authors: Wolf Matthew B.
Published: May 2024

For the first time, a physicochemically based, whole body, four-compartment, computer model was used to study respiratory whole body acid-base buffering. An improved approach to quantify acid-base buffering, previously used by this author, was able to determine contributions of the various compartmental fluids to whole body buffering. The model was used to test, for the first time, three fundamental theories of whole body acid-base homeostasis, namely, H+-conservation, its linkage to ion transport, and strong ion difference conservation.
Optimal Sizing and Management of Hybrid Wind Turbine‐Diesel‐Battery System for Reverse Osmosis Seawater Desalination in NEOM City
Authors: Hassan Mohamed K. , Rezk Hegazy , Youssef Hamdy , Shehata Ahmed S. , El-Bary Alaa A. , Al-Quraan Ayman
Published: May 2024

Optimal sizing and management of hybrid wind turbine‐diesel‐battery system for reverse osmosis seawater desalination in NEOM city is the objective of the paper. Therefore, the paper explored the different factors to optimize and introduce a technoeconomic evaluation and energy management of a stand‐alone wind turbine (WT) system, diesel generator (DG), and battery storage (BS). The suggested WT/DG/BS system is implemented to feed seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) unit in NEOM. The necessitated desalinated water per day is 100 m3. To determine the optimal size of WT/DG/BS corresponding to the minimum cost of energy (COE) and net present cost, two different ratings of the SWRO units (SWRO‐100 and SWRO‐150), three control dispatch strategies (load following, cycle charging, and combined dispatch), and five types of batteries are considered. HOMER software is performed to simulate and optimize the WT/DG/BS. The optimization results indicated that the best battery storage is the Trojan SAGM battery. In this case, the COE ranged between $0.337/kWh and $0.564/kWh. The lowest COE of $0.377/kWh is obtained when using a combined control strategy and SWRO‐100 unit, whereas the worst COE of $0.564/kWh is obtained when using load following control strategy and SWRO‐150 unit. The best option of the WT/DG/BS system to supply the SWRO unit is option number 26. This system includes one wind turbine of 90 kW, DG of 25 kW, 47 Trojan SAGM batteries, a 23.8 kW converter, a SWRO‐100 unit, and a combined control strategy. The net present cost and the initial cost are $950,725 and $221,495, respectively. The annual operating cost and annual consumed fuel are $56,409 and 36,396 L, respectively. Compared with using only a 25 kW diesel generator, the COE reduced from $0.373/kWh (using only DG/BS) to $0.337/kWh (using the best option) by around 9.65%. Under this condition, the values for the internal rate of return, return on investment, and simple payback are 11%, 7.8%, and 8.3 years, respectively.
ICD-10 Classification in the Practice of Emergency Medical Teams: New Insights
Authors: Mitura Krzysztof M. , Snarska Jadwiga , Celiński Daniel , Maślach Dominik , Leszczyński Piotr K. , Binkowska Aneta , Szpakowski Leszek , Szajda Sławomir D.
Published: May 2024

The role of the emergency medical system is to provide assistance to every person in a state in the event of a sudden threat to health and life. Emergency medical teams (EMTs) are an important element of this system, making diagnoses based on the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). The study was aimed at analysing the causes of EMT intervention based on groups of diagnoses codified according to the ICD-10. The analysis was based on data from 116,278 EMT interventions in central-eastern Poland in 2017-2019. The research showed that EMT most often made diagnoses based on groups of ICD-10 codes: R00-R99-Symptoms, signs, and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings, not elsewhere classified (39.11%); S00-T98-Injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes (18.23%); and I00-I99-Diseases of the circulatory system (15.57%). The analysis of the obtained results showed statistically significant differences (p<0.0001) regarding the area of intervention (urban, rural), sex, age of the patient, and the method of completion of the activities by EMTs in relation to the group of ICD-10 diagnoses for the diagnosis. The conducted study showed the actual reasons for EMT calls. The use of the ICD-10 classification has practical application in EMTs, as it enables the identification of a disease or health problem.
A Functional Survey of the Regulatory Landscape of Estrogen Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer Evolution
Authors: Barozzi Iros , Slaven Neil , Canale Eleonora , Lopes Rui , Amorim Monteiro Barbosa Inês , Bleu Melusine , Ivanoiu Diana , Pacini Claudia , Mensa’ Emanuela , Chambers Alfie , Bravaccini Sara , Ravaioli Sara , Győrffy Balázs , Dieci Maria Vittoria , Pruneri Giancarlo , Galli Giorgio Giacomo , Magnani Luca
Published: May 2024

Only a handful of somatic alterations have been linked to endocrine therapy resistance in hormone-dependent breast cancer, potentially explaining ∼40% of relapses. If other mechanisms underlie the evolution of hormone-dependent breast cancer under adjuvant therapy is currently unknown. In this work, we employ functional genomics to dissect the contribution of cis-regulatory elements (CRE) to cancer evolution by focusing on 12 megabases of noncoding DNA, including clonal enhancers, gene promoters, and boundaries of topologically associating domains. Parallel epigenetic perturbation (CRISPRi) in vitro reveals context-dependent roles for many of these CREs, with a specific impact on dormancy entrance and endocrine therapy resistance. Profiling of CRE somatic alterations in a unique, longitudinal cohort of patients treated with endocrine therapies identifies a limited set of noncoding changes potentially involved in therapy resistance. Overall, our data uncover how endocrine therapies trigger the emergence of transient features which could ultimately be exploited to hinder the adaptive process.

Significance: This study shows that cells adapting to endocrine therapies undergo changes in the usage or regulatory regions. Dormant cells are less vulnerable to regulatory perturbation but gain transient dependencies which can be exploited to decrease the formation of dormant persisters.
The Role of Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 Expression in Pituitary Tumours: Lessons from the Current Literature
Authors: Lopes-Pinto Mariana , Lacerda-Nobre Ema , Silva Ana Luísa , Tortosa Francisco , Marques Pedro
Published: May 2024

Background: Programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) and PD ligand-1 (PD-L1) expression predict the biological behaviour, aggressiveness, and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors in different cancers. We reviewed the published data on PD-L1 expression in pituitary tumours from the perspective of its biological role and prognostic usefulness. Summary: A literature review focused on PD-L1 expression in pituitary tumours was performed. Six immunohistochemistry-based studies which assessed PD-L1 positivity in pituitary tumours were included, encompassing 704 patients. The cohort consisted of 384 (54.5%) nonfunctioning tumours and 320 (43.5%) functioning pituitary tumours. PD-L1 expression was positive in 248 cases (35.2%). PD-L1 positivity rate was higher in functioning than in nonfunctioning tumours (46.3% vs. 26.0%; p < 0.001) but also higher in growth hormone-secreting tumours (56.7%) and prolactinomas (53.6%) than in thyrotroph (33.3%) or corticotroph tumours (20.6%). While proliferative pituitary tumours showed higher rate of PD-L1 positivity than non-proliferative tumours (p < 0.001), no association with invasion or recurrence was found. Key Messages: PD-L1 is expressed in a substantial number of pituitary tumours, predominantly in the functioning ones. PD-L1 positivity rates were significantly higher in proliferative pituitary tumours in comparison to non-proliferative tumours, but no differences were found concerning invasive or recurrent pituitary tumours. More studies following homogeneous and standardised methodologies are needed to fully elucidate the role and usefulness of PD-L1 expression in pituitary tumours.