bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐settlement dynamics of Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus in Tango Bay: Seasonal patterns in growth, mortality, and recruitment potential
Authors: Bhandare Chaitanya K. , Suzuki Keita W. , Masuda Reiji , Yamashita Yoh
Published: March 2024

Japanese flounder Paralichthys olivaceus is one of the most valuable coastal flatfish species in East Asia. To investigate post‐settlement growth and mortality, juveniles were sampled in Tango Bay (Japan) weekly throughout the settlement period in 2007 and 2008. Otolith (lapillus) microstructure analysis enabled the categorization of juveniles into six biweekly cohorts each year. Later cohorts exhibited higher growth rates possibly because of higher water temperatures. A key observation was the direct relationship between high mortality and high density in mid‐season cohorts in both years, pointing to density‐dependent mortality. This increased mortality may be attributed to predation, including cannibalism by earlier cohorts. Furthermore, growth‐selective mortality was evident soon after settlement, underscoring the vulnerability of slow growers to predation during the early juvenile stage. Although earlier and later cohorts were less abundant but showed promising recruitment potential, the prospective contribution of mid‐season cohorts to the adult population remained uncertain. The results clearly highlight the importance of density‐dependent mortality in population regulation in post‐settlement Japanese flounder.
Weight Bias Among Certified Nurse‐Midwives and Certified Midwives: Findings From a National Sample
Authors: Bradford Heather M. , Puhl Rebecca M. , Phillippi Julia C. , Dietrich Mary S. , Neal Jeremy L.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Weight bias toward individuals with higher body weights permeates health care settings in the United States and has been associated with poor weight‐related communication and quality of care as well as adverse health outcomes. However, there has been limited quantitative investigation into weight bias among perinatal care providers. Certified nurse‐midwives (CNMs)/certified midwives (CMs) attend approximately 11% of all births in the United States. The aims of this study were to measure the direction and extent of weight bias among CNMs/CMs and compare their levels of weight bias to the US public and other health professionals.

Methods

Through direct postcard distribution, social media accounts, professional networks, and email listservs, American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)‐certified midwives were solicited to complete an online survey of their implicit weight bias using the Implicit Association Test and their explicit weight bias using the Antifat Attitudes Questionnaire, Fat Phobia Scale, and Preference for Thin People measure.

Results

A total of 2257 midwives participated in the survey, yielding a completion rate of 17.7%. Participants were mostly White and female, with a median age of 46 years and 11 years since AMCB certification. More than 70% of midwives have some level of implicit weight bias, although to a lesser extent compared with previously published findings among the US public (P < .01) and other health professionals (P < .01). In a subsample comparison of female midwives to female physicians, implicit weight bias levels were similar (P > .05). Midwives also express explicit weight bias, but at lower levels than the US public and other health professionals (P < .05).

Discussion

This study provides the first quantitative research documenting weight bias among a national US sample of perinatal care providers. Findings can inform educational efforts to mitigate weight bias in the perinatal care setting and decrease harm.
Factors related to nurses' beliefs regarding pain assessment in people living with dementia
Authors: Kodagoda Gamage Madushika Wishvanie , Pu Lihui , Todorovic Michael , Moyle Wendy
Published: March 2024

Aim

To evaluate registered nurses' beliefs and related factors regarding pain assessment in people living with dementia.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey was conducted between July 2022 and April 2023.

Methods

An online survey comprised of demographics, knowledge scale, and beliefs scale relating to pain assessment in dementia was distributed to registered nurses (RNs) caring for people living with dementia in Australia.

Results

RNs (N = 131) completed the survey. Most respondents were females (87.0%) and self‐identified as Caucasian (60.3%). The mean beliefs score was 72.60 (±6.39) out of a maximum possible score of 95. RNs' beliefs about pain assessment varied based on their education, dementia pain assessment knowledge, nursing experience, and ethnicity. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed factors significantly related to the beliefs score (i.e. education and dementia pain assessment knowledge).

Conclusion

The relationship between education and knowledge, and the beliefs score indicates the potential to improve RNs' knowledge and overcome their erroneous beliefs about pain assessment in dementia.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Education and training in assessing pain in people living with dementia should be tailored to overcome RNs' misconceived beliefs. These programmes should be integrated into continuous learning programmes.

Impact

Some RNs' beliefs about pain assessment in dementia were not evidence‐based, and knowledge and educational status were the strongest factors related to RNs' beliefs. RNs' erroneous beliefs about pain assessment in dementia need to be addressed to improve pain assessment and management. Researchers should explore the potential of educational interventions to overcome RNs' misconceived beliefs about pain assessment in dementia.

Reporting Method

This study was reported adhering to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

RNs caring for people living with dementia participated as survey respondents. Additionally, RNs were involved in the pre‐testing of the study's survey instrument.
Qualitative family research: Innovative, flexible, theoretical, reflexive
Authors: Goldberg Abbie E. , Allen Katherine R.
Published: March 2024

Qualitative research is increasingly part of the methodological repertoire of scholars who study families. In this article, we examine contemporary trends, tensions, and possibilities for the interdisciplinary enterprise of qualitative research on and about families. We situate our collaborative approach as critical family scholars who pursue social justice work. We then examine four trends that have recently emerged or evolved in qualitative family research. First, we address methodological innovations associated with the pervasive emergence of online technologies and their possibilities for enhanced sample selection, data collection, and data analysis. Second, we address the potential for qualitative methodological orthodoxy to become rigidly embedded as a result of relying on a formulaic approach and instead we advocate for a continued commitment to analytic flexibility, which has characterized qualitative family research since its inception. Third, we emphasize the interlocking relationship between qualitative family research and the process of theorizing. Fourth, we highlight the potential of reflexivity—not simply in positionality statements, but throughout the qualitative knowledge production process. We conclude with guidance for scholars, reviewers, editors, and readers in utilizing and assessing excellent qualitative family research—research that embodies one or more of these trends of innovation, flexibility, theoretically driven, and reflexivity.
Ontological relativity and conceptual analysis as theoretical frameworks for epistemic injustice: Exploring applications
Authors: Valore Paolo
Published: March 2024

This article introduces a novel theoretical framework for addressing epistemic injustice—a phenomenon where certain groups or individuals are systematically excluded from knowledge creation and dissemination processes—by employing ontological relativity and conceptual analysis. “Ontological relativity” refers to a philosophical perspective that posits our understanding of reality as being shaped by our toolbox of concepts, categories, language, and social practices; “conceptual analysis” is a method of inquiry that involves the rigorous examination and deconstruction of a particular concept or set of concepts in order to uncover their constituent elements, relationships, and underlying assumptions. To exemplify the effectiveness of the ontology‐based approach, two paradigmatic applications are explored: (a) educational practices and (b) clinical practice and access to health care. Through the presentation of these applications and the step‐by‐step illustration of the applied methodology, the aim of the article is to showcase the efficacy of ontology in tackling epistemic injustices, suggesting innovative paths for future research in this domain.
In‐vivo assessment of application of folinic acid and botulinum toxin A in cleft lip surgical defects
Authors: Shiva Atena , Soltani Parisa , Moaddabi Amirhossein , Yazdian Rezvan , Saeedi Majid , Mozoun Zohreh , Esfandpour Atefe , Rengo Carlo , Namdar Parastoo , Spagnuolo Gianrico
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Folinic acid and botulinum toxin A have shown promising results in wound healing in different studies. This study aimed to compare the effects of these approaches on wound healing after simulating cleft lip surgery in rats.

Methods

In this experimental animal study, after creating lip defects, 30 rats were randomly divided into three groups and received normal saline (CTL), botulinum toxin A (BOT), and folinic acid (FOL). Biopsy from the skin wounds was performed after 14‐ and 28‐days. These samples were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome staining. Finally, each pathological parameter of wound healing was rated in this study.

Results

While the inflammatory response was not different among the study groups, fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition were significantly higher in FOL group compared to BOT group. Moreover, both BOT and FOL facilitated epithelial healing and 14‐day angiogenesis as compared with normal saline.

Conclusions

Improved wound healing was observed using both botulinum toxin A and folinic acid in rat animal models. However, the application of botulinum toxin A caused less fibroblast proliferation and collagen deposition which can potentially lead to less scar formation, which can be particularly important in the aesthetic zone.
Effect of attachment configuration and trim line design on the force system of orthodontic aligners: A finite element study on the upper central incisor
Authors: Elshazly Tarek M. , Bourauel Christoph , Aldesoki Mostafa , Salvatori Damiano , Alhotan Abdulaziz , Keilig Ludger , Ghoneima Ahmed
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To use the finite element method (FEM) to investigate the effect of various attachment configurations and trimming line designs of orthodontic aligners on their biomechanical performance.

Method

A 3D upper jaw model was imported into 3D design software. The upper right central incisor tooth (Tooth 11) was made mobile, and its periodontal ligament (PDL) and bone structures were designed. Aligners were modelled with three distinct attachment configurations: No attachment, rectangular horizontal, rectangular vertical, and two trimming line designs; scalloped and straight extended, with a homogeneous thickness of 0.6 mm. These models were then imported into an FE software. Simulations were conducted for three different movements, including facial translation, distalization, and extrusion.

Results

Forces were recorded at 1.3–2.6 N during facial translation, 1.4–5.9 N in distalization, and 0.0–2.0 N in extrusion. The straight extended trimming line consistently generated higher forces than the scalloped design. Attachments had no significant impact on force components during facial translation but were more effective in distalization and extrusion. The combination of a straight extended trimming line with horizontal attachments exhibited the least stresses at the apical third during distalization, and the highest stresses during extrusion, suggesting superior retention.

Conclusions

Rectangular attachments offer limited benefits in facial translation, but horizontal rectangular attachments can intensify load in distalization and are crucial for force generation in extrusion. Horizontal attachments are preferred over vertical options. Additionally, the straight extended trim line enhances control of tooth movement and can replace attachments in certain cases.

Clinical Relevance

These findings provide biomechanical evidence and an optimal protocol to guide clinical practice in planning diverse teeth movements. The emphasis is on the influence of attachment utilization and the specific design of aligner trimming lines to enhance control over tooth movement.
Eye and lid involvement as an uncommon feature of pemphigus foliaceus in a pediatric patient
Authors: Garza‐Dávila Valeria F. , Santana‐Gutiérrez Adalberto , Zapata‐Salazar Natalia , Vázquez‐Martínez Osvaldo , Ocampo‐Candiani Jorge , Fernández‐de Luna Marissa L. , Mohamed‐Noriega Karim , Alba‐Rojas Erika
Published: March 2024

Pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is an autoimmune blistering disorder which affects the superficial layers of the epidermis with rare mucosal involvement. We present the case of a 12‐year‐old girl with PF involving the eyes and eyelids. A literature review of pediatric nonendemic PF revealed another two cases with ocular manifestations. Eyelid involvement is an uncommon feature of PF that should be properly identified and treated.
Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia and Kimura disease: A case report and literature review
Authors: Botto Elizabeth , Rodriguez‐Waitkus Paul , Albers Sharon E.
Published: March 2024

Angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia (ALHE) is a benign vascular proliferative condition, typically presenting as subcutaneous nodules in the head and neck region of middle‐aged women. Kimura disease (KD) is a benign condition that presents with subcutaneous nodules in a similar distribution with lymphadenopathy and eosinophilia, typically in Asian adult males. These diseases are often discussed together, including whether they exist on a spectrum or if they represent separate disease entities. Both are very rare in the pediatric population; in this report we highlight the case of a 10‐year‐old Caucasian male presenting with ALHE and KD.
Neonatal nasal necrosis: Case series and brief review
Authors: Karch Jamie L. , Grand David , Diaz Ariana G. , Belazarian Leah , Mann Julianne A.
Published: March 2024

There is limited information available on pressure‐related neonatal nasal injuries. We present three neonates born with erythema and purpura of the nasal tip that subsequently ulcerated, then evolved into a thick eschar. Each healed well with conservative management but left behind significant scarring. The sharp demarcation and location of the lesions were suggestive of hypoxic tissue damage akin to halo scalp ring alopecia. Further investigation is necessary to elucidate the etiology and optimal management of this condition.
Exposure to armed conflict and monitoring as predictors of aggression in a population immersed in a long‐term conflict
Authors: Gómez Diana , López José D. , Giraldo Luz S. , Huepe David A. , García Adolfo M. , Trujillo Natalia
Published: March 2024

As armed conflict can influence social behavior, exposed individuals would experience modulated executive functioning, crucial to regulating aggressive responses. Since it is still unclear whether there is an association, this study examines the relationship between performance in executive functions and expression of reactive and proactive aggression, measured using the Reacting Proactive Aggression Questionnaire. The sample includes 128 civilians and ex‐combatants with different levels of exposure to the Colombian armed conflict. The study found that reactive aggression was directly linked to conflict exposure and was also influenced by age and monitoring ability. This suggests that an updated working memory and age play a role in reactive aggression. In contrast, proactive aggression was directly linked to conflict exposure but not to specific executive functions. In conclusion, individuals with less monitoring who live in high‐conflict regions present an increased likelihood of reactive aggression. Additionally, reasonable executive control of thoughts and actions, which involves updating past experiences, appears to be crucial in social contexts, especially violent ones. These findings shall inform interventions and public policies that address the psychosocial risks of aggressive behaviors.
Willingness valued more than ability in partner choice: Insights into behavioral and ERP data
Authors: Xu Qiang , Wang Jing , Li Peng
Published: March 2024

In human cooperation, people prefer to choose partners with high willingness and ability—while both are valued by partners, individuals often prioritize willingness. Two event‐related potential (ERP) experiments were conducted to discern the neural processes underpinning this preference. In the first experiment, participants made a choice between two potential partners and received feedback on the selected partner's willingness to cooperate. This was followed by feedback on the partner's task performance (ability) or a gambling outcome. In contrast, the second experiment first provided feedback on ability, then presented feedback on willingness or a gambling outcome. This study revealed that a potential partner's willingness trait significantly influences individuals’ emotional evaluations and monetary allocations than the ability trait. Electrophysiological data indicated that low‐willingness feedback elicited a diminished feedback‐related negative (FRN) and an amplified P3 compared to high‐willingness feedback. In contrast, no such difference was discernible between high‐ and low‐ability feedback. Moreover, the P3 difference from high versus low willingness was considerably more pronounced than that from gambling outcomes, whereas the difference wave between high and low ability paralleled gambling outcomes. These findings bolster the novel finding that partner willingness may provide more substantial social rewards than ability. Furthermore, this study provides the first ERP evidence of willingness and ability trait perceptions in partner choice decisions.
The impact of low‐skilled migrants on firm productivity: Evidence from hukou reform in China
Authors: Kong Dongmin , Zhang Jiuyi , Xiong Mengxu
Published: March 2024

In the past, China divided its citizens into “agricultural hukou” and “non‐agricultural hukou” to limit rural–urban migration, which contributed to China's early industrialization. However, the binary household registration system no longer suits China's development, and cities in China have successively carried out hukou reforms. Based on the reforms that trigger rural–urban migration, we investigate the impact of low‐cost and low‐skilled migrant workers on firm‐level total factor productivity (TFP). We employ a staggered difference‐in‐differences (DID) strategy to show the following results: (1) The hukou reform substantially reduces the listed firms' TFP by 6.9%. (2) The hukou reform has increased the number of employees and the labor intensity, as well as reduced average employee salaries, employee responsibility, and R&D in enterprises, revealing the mechanism by which hukou reform affects firm productivity. (3) Our findings are particularly pronounced in non‐state‐owned enterprises (non‐SOEs), enterprises with more stringent financing constraints, and cities with wider rural–urban income gaps.
A Systematic Analysis of Statewide Reports on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples in the U.S.: What We Know and Where to Go from Here☆
Authors: Fox Kathleen A. , Stanek Kayleigh A. , Mukosi Leonard , Sharp Christopher , Imus‐Nahsonhoya Valaura
Published: March 2024

For generations, Indigenous communities have been calling attention to a widespread form of victimization known as Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples (MMIP). In response to grassroots efforts across rural communities, there has been a marked increase in legislation at the federal and state levels to address MMIP from 2018 to the present. Federal legislation has provided the most comprehensive and coordinated model of response to MMIP. This study analyzes how the scope and themes of federal legislation addressing MMIP are mirrored in the bills recently enacted by 14 states addressing MMIP. One goal of this study is to identify strengths and limitations within state legislation and provide insight into critical areas of focus for improving state legislative responses to MMIP. Next, we analyze reports from federal MMIP legislation and the 10 states (among the 14 with legislation) that have currently published MMIP reports to date. Our analysis of MMIP reports expands knowledge on (1) how data were collected and interpreted across jurisdictions, and (2) whether states experience MMIP in similar or different ways. Drawing on our comparative analysis of legislation and reports across jurisdictions, we offer data‐driven recommendations for states to consider when addressing MMIP.
Spontaneous cecal perforation in a cat diagnosed with ultrasonography
Authors: Besson Julie , Brissot Hervé , Azoulay Florian , Benzimra Paul , Fritz Julien
Published: March 2024

An 8‐year‐old cat was presented for an acute history of anorexia, marked abdominal pain, and hyperthermia. Ultrasonography showed a cecal perforation with focal steatitis and adjacent free gas bubbles, consistent with focal peritonitis. Surgery confirmed the imaging findings. An enterectomy was performed with the removal of the cecum and ileocolic valve, and anastomosis between the ileum and colon was performed. Histology revealed transmural enteritis and chronic severe pyogranulomatous peritonitis with intralesional plant fragments.
Utilizing multiscale engineered biomaterials to examine TGF‐β‐mediated myofibroblastic differentiation
Authors: Simpson Aryssa , Krissanaprasit Abhichart , Chester Daniel , Koehler Cynthia , LaBean Thomas H. , Brown Ashley C.
Published: March 2024

Cells integrate many mechanical and chemical cues to drive cell signalling responses. Because of the complex nature and interdependency of alterations in extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, ligand density, mechanics, and cellular responses it is difficult to tease out individual and combinatorial contributions of these various factors in driving cell behavior in homeostasis and disease. Tuning of material viscous and elastic properties, and ligand densities, in combinatorial fashions would enhance our understanding of how cells process complex signals. For example, it is known that increased ECM mechanics and transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) receptor (TGF‐β‐R) spacing/clustering independently drive TGF‐β signalling and associated myofibroblastic differentiation. However, it remains unknown how these inputs orthogonally contribute to cellular outcomes. Here, we describe the development of a novel material platform that combines microgel thin films with controllable viscoelastic properties and DNA origami to probe how viscoelastic properties and nanoscale spacing of TGF‐β‐Rs contribute to TGF‐β signalling and myofibroblastic differentiation. We found that highly viscous materials with non‐fixed TGF‐β‐R spacing promoted increased TGF‐β signalling and myofibroblastic differentiation. This is likely due to the ability of cells to better cluster receptors on these surfaces. These results provide insight into the contribution of substrate properties and receptor localisation on downstream signalling. Future studies allow for exploration into other receptor‐mediated processes.
Incommensurable lattices in Baumslag–Solitar complexes
Authors: Forester Max
Published: March 2024

This paper concerns locally finite 2‐complexes that are combinatorial models for the Baumslag–Solitar groups . We show that, in many cases, the locally compact group contains incommensurable uniform lattices. The lattices we construct also admit isomorphic Cayley graphs and are finitely presented, torsion‐free, and coherent.
Holomorphicity of totally geodesic Kobayashi isometry between bounded symmetric domains
Authors: Kim Sung‐Yeon , Seo Aeryeong
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we study the holomorphicity of totally geodesic Kobayashi isometric embeddings between bounded symmetric domains. First, we show that for a ‐smooth totally geodesic Kobayashi isometric embedding where , are bounded symmetric domains, if is irreducible and or more generally, for any tangent vector of , then is either holomorphic or anti‐holomorphic. Second, we characterize Kobayashi isometries from a reducible bounded symmetric domain to itself.
Hyperaemia during dynamic handgrip exercise is preserved in healthy young subjects after recovery from COVID‐19
Authors: Prodel Eliza , Souza Roberto , Divino Beatriz , Rocha Helena N. M. , Rocha Natalia G. , Nobrega Antonio C. L.
Published: March 2024

We sought to investigate possible impaired hyperaemia during dynamic handgrip exercise (HGE) in young healthy individuals who had recovered from COVID‐19. We tested the vascular function in individuals recovered from COVID‐19 using a nitric oxide donor (i.e., sodium nitroprusside; SNP), which could revert a possible impaired endothelial function during HGE. Further, we tested whether individuals who recovered from COVID‐19 would present exaggerated brachial vascular resistance under an adrenergic agonist (i.e., phenylephrine; PHE) stimuli during HGE. Participants were distributed into two groups: healthy controls (Control; men: n = 6, 30 ± 3 years, 26 ± 1 kg/m2; and women: n = 5, 25 ± 1 years, 25 ± 1 kg/m2) and subjects recovered from COVID‐19 (post‐COVID; men: n = 6, 29 ± 3 years, 25 ± 1 kg/m2; and women: n = 10, 32 ± 4 years, 22 ± 1 kg/m2). Participants in the post‐COVID group tested positive (RT‐PCR) 12–14 weeks before the protocol. Heart rate (HR), brachial blood pressure (BP), brachial blood flow (BBF) and vascular conductance (BVC) at rest were not different between groups. The HGE increased HR (Control: Δ9 ± 0.4 bpm; and post‐COVID: Δ11 ± 0.4 bpm) and BP (Control: Δ6 ± 1 mmHg; and post‐COVID: Δ12 ± 0.6 mmHg) in both groups. Likewise, BBF (Control: Δ632 ± 38 ml/min; and post‐COVID: Δ620 ± 27 ml/min) and BVC (Control: Δ6.6 ± 0.4 ml/min/mmHg; and post‐COVID: Δ6.1 ± 0.3 ml/min/mmHg) increased during HGE. SNP did not change HGE‐induced hyperaemia but did decrease BP, which induced a reflex‐related increase in HR. PHE infusion also did not change the HGE‐induced hyperaemia but raised BP and reduced HR. In conclusion, exercise‐induced hyperaemia is preserved in healthy young subjects 12–14 weeks after recovery from COVID‐19 infection.
Mechanisms mediating muscle metaboreflex control of cardiac output during exercise: Impaired regulation in heart failure
Authors: O'Leary Donal S. , Mannozzi Joseph
Published: March 2024

The ability to increase cardiac output during dynamic exercise is paramount for the ability to maintain workload performance. Reflex control of the cardiovascular system during exercise is complex and multifaceted involving multiple feedforward and feedback systems. One major reflex thought to mediate the autonomic adjustments to exercise is termed the muscle metaboreflex and is activated via afferent neurons within active skeletal muscle which respond to the accumulation of interstitial metabolites during exercise when blood flow and O2 delivery are insufficient to meet metabolic demands. This is one of the most powerful cardiovascular reflexes capable of eliciting profound increases in sympathetic nerve activity, arterial blood pressure, central blood volume mobilization, heart rate and cardiac output. This review summarizes the mechanisms meditating muscle metaboreflex‐induced increases in cardiac output. Although much has been learned from studies using anaesthetized and/or decerebrate animals, we focus on studies in conscious animals and humans performing volitional exercise. We discuss the separate and interrelated roles of heart rate, ventricular contractility, ventricular preload and ventricular–vascular coupling as well as the interaction with other cardiovascular reflexes which modify muscle metaboreflex control of cardiac output. We discuss how these mechanisms may be altered in subjects with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and offer suggestions for future studies.
Numerical Investigation of a Hydrogen–Air Flame for NOx Prediction
Authors: Leparoux J. , Mercier R. , Puggelli S. , Cailler M. , Moureau V.
Published: March 2024

Sustainable aviation fuels are a major candidate to reduce pollutant emissions in future aeronautical engines. Recently, the use of hydrogen as a fuel has gained a high interest partly because its combustion is free from carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, and produces few pollutants, mainly nitrogen oxides (NOx). Over the last decades, efforts on numerical methods for combustion simulation in aero-engines have largely been focused on kerosene-air combustion. However, the current transition may have a significant impact on the computational methodologies for combustor design. Hydrogen defines novel modeling issues and challenges the current state of art on numerical methodologies. The current study presents a numerical investigation of a hydrogen–air burner using large-eddy simulations (LES) with a focus on NOx prediction. The considered configuration is a two-staged combustor, similar to the well-known RQL (Rich-Quench-Lean) technology, supplied by a single coaxial injector characterized experimentally. Two combustion models are investigated: (i) tabulated chemistry based on premixed flamelets (ii) transported chemistry description by using a 21-species chemical scheme. Numerical results are compared with experimental data (NOx concentrations, temperature distributions, pressure losses). A focus on model predictions is carried out. Results show a good agreement to predict the main flow characteristics and the premixed flame position over different operating points and geometries for both frameworks. In contrast, NOx emissions are more sensitive: while the overall trend is well captured, the quantification is more scattered. Finally, an in-depth analysis is proposed to link NOx production with the nonpremixed flame size.
Sex-related differential item functioning of the Jenkins Sleep Scale: a cross-sectional study among 77 967 employees in the Finnish public sector
Authors: Juhola Juhani , Arokoski Jari P A , Ervasti Jenni , Kivimäki Mika , Vahtera Jussi , Myllyntausta Saana , Saltychev Mikhail
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To investigate if the Jenkins Sleep Scale (JSS) demonstrates sex-related differential item functioning (DIF).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Survey data from the Finnish Public Sector study (2015–2017).

Participants

77 967 employees in the Finnish public sector, with a mean age of 51.9 (SD 13.1) years and 82% women.

Outcome measures

Item response theory estimates: difficulty and discrimination parameters of the JSS and differences in these parameters between men and women.

Results

The mean JSS total score was 6.4 (4.8) points. For all four items of the JSS, the difficulty parameter demonstrated a slight shift towards underestimation of the severity of sleep difficulties. The discrimination ability of all four items was moderate to high. For the JSS composite score, overall discrimination ability was moderate (0.98, 95% CI 0.97 to 0.99). Mild uniform DIF (p<0.001) was seen: two items showed better discrimination ability among men and two others among women.

Conclusions

The JSS showed overall good psychometric properties among this healthy population of employees in the Finnish public sector. The JSS was able to discriminate people with different severities of sleep disturbances. However, when using the JSS, the respondents might slightly underestimate the severity of these disturbances. While the JSS may produce slightly different results when answered by men and women, these sex-related differences are probably negligible when applied to clinical situations.
Randomised trials conducted using cohorts: a scoping review
Authors: Nickolls Beverley Jane , Relton Clare , Hemkens Lars , Zwarenstein Merrick , Eldridge Sandra , McCall Stephen J , Griffin Xavier Luke , Sohanpal Ratna , Verkooijen Helena M , Maguire Jonathon L , McCord Kimberly A
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Cohort studies generate and collect longitudinal data for a variety of research purposes. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) increasingly use cohort studies as data infrastructures to help identify and recruit trial participants and assess outcomes.

Objective

To examine the extent, range and nature of research using cohorts for RCTs and describe the varied definitions and conceptual boundaries for RCTs using cohorts.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

Searches were undertaken in January 2021 in MEDLINE (Ovid) and EBM Reviews—Cochrane Methodology Registry (Final issue, third Quarter 2012).

Eligibility criteria

Reports published between January 2007 and December 2021 of (a) cohorts used or planned to be used, to conduct RCTs, or (b) RCTs which use cohorts to recruit participants and/or collect trial outcomes, or (c) methodological studies discussing the use of cohorts for RCTs.

Data extraction and synthesis

Data were extracted on the condition being studied, age group, setting, country/continent, intervention(s) and comparators planned or received, unit of randomisation, timing of randomisation, approach to informed consent, study design and terminology.

Results

A total of 175 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. We identified 61 protocols, 9 descriptions of stand-alone cohorts intended to be used for future RCTs, 39 RCTs using cohorts and 34 methodological papers.

The use and scope of this approach is growing. The thematics of study are far-ranging, including population health, oncology, mental and behavioural disorders, and musculoskeletal conditions.

Authors reported that this approach can lead to more efficient recruitment, more representative samples, and lessen disappointment bias and crossovers.

Conclusion

This review outlines the development of cohorts to conduct RCTs including the range of use and innovative changes and adaptations. Inconsistencies in the use of terminology and concepts are highlighted. Guidance now needs to be developed to support the design and reporting of RCTs conducted using cohorts.
Effect and safety of electroacupuncture on weight loss in obese patients with pre-diabetes: study protocol of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Li Xiying , Lin Jingjing , Hu Chenfang , Liu Baojun , Li Feng , Li Jiaying , Zeng Xiaoling , Li Shanshan , Mi Yiqun , Yin Xuan , Xu Shifen
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Obesity has been identified as a significant risk factor for several chronic conditions, including diabetes, tumours and cardiovascular disease, and has been associated with increased mortality rates. Despite the well-established clinical practice of electroacupuncture (EA) as a potential treatment option for obesity, its efficacy remains questionable, primarily due to the paucity of empirical evidence supporting its therapeutic benefits.

Methods and analysis

The present study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of EA for weight loss in obese individuals with pre-diabetes, using a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial design. A total of 256 eligible patients will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: EA (comprising EA treatment with health education) or superficial acupuncture (SA) (comprising SA treatment with health education). The intervention will be administered three times per week for the initial 12 weeks, two times per week for the subsequent 8 weeks and one time per week for the final 4 weeks, with a 24-week follow-up period. The primary outcome measure will be the percentage of patients who achieve a reduction of 10% or more in their body weight at week 24. Secondary outcome measures will include changes in body weight and body mass index, blood test results, data collected by the body composition analyser, size of adipose tissue scanned by MRI of the abdomen and the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life, the 21-item Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-Revised and the Food Craving Questionnaire-Trait. The Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale will be employed to monitor every adverse reaction from baseline to follow-up.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has received ethical clearance from the Ethics Committee of Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine under the registration number 2021SHL-KY-74. All participants will provide their written informed consent prior to their enrolment. The findings of this investigation will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and scholarly conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05237089.
Students’ perceptions and experiences of an online well-being programme: a phenomenological study protocol
Authors: Escuadra Catherine Joy , Chiong Maya Arlene , Nava Jordan Barbra P , Vergara Jose Avelino , Bea Trisha Coleen , Javier Angelo Miguel , Karamihan Francine , Padilla Diane Pauline , Reyes Albert Josef , Samonte Julia , Serrano Sophia Ivonne
Published: March 2024

Background

The pandemic has ensued challenges across all sections of the human population such as livelihood and educational changes, which involve the abrupt shift to online learning, immensely affecting the students’ well-being. Negative health consequences of e-learning among students stem from the increased demand for new technological skills, productivity, information overload and restriction of students to spend time with their peers.

Objective

To explore the experiences of the students from the University of Santo Tomas—College of Rehabilitation Sciences (UST-CRS) who participated in the online well-being programme.

Methodology

A phenomenological design will be used to determine the participants’ perceptions and experiences. Purposive sampling will be used to recruit 8–10 undergraduate students from UST-CRS ages 18–22 years, who participated in the well-being programme, and completed the study’s quantitative counterpart. Semistructured, in-depth questions will be used to conduct a focus group discussion. The transcripts will be analysed using thematic analysis via the NVivo V.12 software.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol is approved by the UST-CRS Ethical Review Committee (Protocol Number: SI-2022–034 (V.4)). It will be implemented in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and the National Ethical Guidelines for Health and Health-Related Research, and Data Privacy Act. Findings will be published in accredited journals and presented in related scientific fora.

Registration ID

PHRR230214-005419; Philippine Health Research Registry.
Symptomology following COVID-19 among adults in Alberta, Canada: an observational survey study
Authors: Chen Xueyi , Norris Colleen , Whitten Tara , Ho Chester , Mann Balraj , Bakal Jeffrey
Published: March 2024

Objective

Fatigue, headache, problems sleeping and numerous other symptoms have been reported to be associated with long COVID. However, many of these symptoms coincide with symptoms reported by the general population, possibly exacerbated by restrictions/precautions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study examines the symptoms reported by individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 compared with those who tested negative.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

The study was conducted on adult residents in Alberta, Canada, from October 2021 to February 2023.

Participants

We evaluated self-reported symptoms in 7623 adults with positive COVID-19 tests and 1520 adults who tested negative, using surveys adapted from the internationally standardised International Severe Acute Respiratory and emerging Infection Consortium (ISARIC)-developed COVID-19 long-term follow-up tools. These individuals had an index COVID-19 test date between 1 March 2020 and 31 December 2022 and were over 28 days post-COVID-19 testing.

Primary outcome measures

The primary outcomes were to identify the symptoms associated with COVID-19 positivity and risk factors for reporting symptoms.

Results

Fatigue was the top reported symptom (42%) among COVID-19-positive respondents, while headache was the top reported symptom (32%) in respondents who tested negative. Compared with those who tested negative, COVID-19-positive individuals reported 1.5 times more symptoms and had higher odds of experiencing 31 out of the 40 listed symptoms during the postinfectious period. These symptoms included olfactory dysfunction, menstruation changes, cardiopulmonary and neurological symptoms. Female sex, middle age (41–55 years), Indigeneity, unemployment, hospital/intensive care unit (ICU) admission at the time of testing and pre-existing health conditions independently predicted a greater number and variety of symptoms.

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence that COVID-19 survivors continue to experience a significant number and variety of symptoms. These findings can help inform targeted strategies for the unequally affected population. It is important to offer appropriate management for symptom relief to those who have survived the acute COVID-19 illness.
Engaging people with lived experiences on community advisory boards in community-based participatory research: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Nelson Georgia , Kettaneh Hasan , Knox Bruce , Purkey Eva , Chan-Nguyen Sophy , Jenkins Meghan , Bayoumi Imaan
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is a collaborative research approach that equally engages researchers and community stakeholders throughout all steps of the research process to facilitate social change and increase research relevance. Community advisory boards (CABs) are a CBPR tool in which individuals with lived experience and community organisations are integrated into the research process and ensure the work aligns with community priorities. We seek to (1) explore the best practices for the recruitment and engagement of people with lived experiences on CABs and (2) identify the scope of literature on minimising power dynamics between organisations and community members with lived experience who work on CABs together.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review will follow the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework, informed by Levacet al, and will be reported using a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) diagram. Detailed and robust search strategies have been developed for Embase, Medline and PsychINFO. Grey literature references and reference lists of included articles published between 1 January 1990 and 30 March 2023 will be considered. Two reviewers will independently screen references in two successive stages of title/abstract and full-text screening. Conflicts will be decided by consensus or a third reviewer. Thematic analysis will be applied in three phases: open coding, axial coding and abstraction. Extracted data will be recorded and presented in a tabular format and/or graphical summaries, with a descriptive overview discussing how the research findings relate to the research questions. At this time, a preliminary search of peer-reviewed and grey literature has been conducted. Search results for peer-reviewed literature have been uploaded to Covidence for review and appraisal for relevance.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethics approval is not required for this review. Review findings will inform ongoing and future CBPR community advisory board dynamics.

Registration

The protocol has been registered prospectively on the Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/QF5D3)
Interprofessional education interventions in undergraduate students of musculoskeletal healthcare professions: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Ismail Fatima , Myburgh Cornelius , Downing Charlene
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Enhancing interprofessional education (IPE) fosters collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals specializing in musculoskeletal (MSK) care. This approach presents a valuable opportunity to address the pressing MSK disease burden in developing countries, with high prevalence rates and limited resources. While an abundance of literature on the various elements of IPE among healthcare students and professionals exists, shared contexts of practice of South African MSK disciplines are not currently developed through IPE at higher education level, establishing a need for South African formalised curricular IPE interventions with an explicit focus on undergraduate students of MSK healthcare professions.

Methods and analysis

The intended scoping review protocol is guided by the framework set out by Arksey and O’Malley, where the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews will guide the process of reporting. English sources (qualitative and quantitative methodological studies, conference papers and proceedings, systematic reviews, grey literature, unpublished materials, theses and dissertations) from the electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, ERIC and ProQuest with no date restriction will be included. A researcher, an independent reviewer and research librarian will search and extract data from abstracts and full texts for this scoping review, where any arising disagreements will be resolved by discussion. Reference lists of relevant literature will be scrutinised. Relevant literature will be recorded on a referencing software and deduplicated. The data collection will take place between May and October 2023. The findings will be reported narratively with the use of tables.

Ethics and dissemination

This scoping review does not require ethical approval as all literature used already exists in the public domain with no involvement of human participants. The findings from this planned review will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals and will be presented at higher education conferences. This scoping review protocol was registered on Open Science Framework with the registrationosf.io/c27n4.
Impacts of income inequality and the mediation role of reporting delays on COVID-19 deaths during 2020 and 2021 in Hong Kong: an observational study
Authors: Yuan Hsiang-Yu , Wong Wing Hei , Khairunnasa Fatema , Ho Hung Chak , Chung Gary Ka-Ki
Published: March 2024

Objective

To estimate the impacts of demographic factors and income disparities on the case fatality rate (CFR) of COVID-19 in Hong Kong, taking into account the influence of reporting delays (ie, the duration between symptom onset and case confirmation).

Design

Retrospective observational longitudinal study.

Participants

A total of 7406 symptomatic patients with residence information reported between 23 January 2020 and 2 October 2021.

Main outcome measures

The study examined the disparity in COVID-19 deaths associated with the factors such as age (≥65 vs 0–64 years old groups), gender and the income level of districts (low income vs non-low income). The severe reporting delay (>10 days) was considered as the mediator for mediation analysis. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was constructed.

Results

We found that CFR was 3.07% in the low-income region, twofold higher than 1.34% in the other regions. Although the severe reporting delay was associated with a hazard ratio (HR) of about 1.9, its mediation effect was only weakly present for age, but not for gender or income level. Hence, high CFR in Hong Kong was largely attributed to the direct effects of the elderly (HR 25.967; 95% CI 14.254 to 47.306) and low income (HR 1.558; 95% CI 1.122 to 2.164).

Conclusion

The disparity in COVID-19 deaths between income regions is not due to reporting delays, but rather to health inequities in Hong Kong. These risks may persist after the discontinuation of test-and-trace measures and extend to other high-threat respiratory pathogens. Urgent actions are required to identify vulnerable groups in low-income regions and understand the underlying causes of health inequities.