bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel multiple marker microarray analyzer and methodology to predict major obstetric syndromes using surface markers of circulating extracellular vesicles from maternal plasma
Authors: Jørgensen Malene Møller , Bæk Rikke , Sloth Jenni K. , Sammour Rami , Sharabi‐Nov Adi , Vatish Manu , Meiri Hamutal , Sammar Marei
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Placental‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano‐organelles that facilitate intercellular communication between the feto‐placental unit and the mother. We evaluated a novel Multiple Microarray analyzer for identifying surface markers on plasma EVs that predict preterm delivery and preeclampsia compared to term delivery controls.

Material and Methods

In this prospective exploratory cohort study pregnant women between 24 and 40 gestational weeks with preterm delivery (n = 16), preeclampsia (n = 19), and matched term delivery controls (n = 15) were recruited from Bnai Zion Medical Center, Haifa, Israel. Plasma samples were tested using a multiple microarray analyzer. Glass slides with 17 antibodies against EV surface receptors ‐ were incubated with raw plasma samples, detected by biotinylated secondary antibodies specific to EVs or placental EVs (PEVs), and labeled with cyanine 5–streptavidin. PBS and whole human IgG served as controls. The fluorescent signal ratio to negative controls was log 2 transformed and analyzed for sensitivity and specificity using the area under the receiver operating characteristics curves (AUROC). Best pair ratios of general EVs/PEVs were used for univariate analysis, and top pairs were combined for multivariate analysis. Results were validated by comparison with EVs purified using standard procedures.

Results

Heatmaps differentiated surface profiles of preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and term delivery receptors on total EVs and PEVs. Similar results were obtained with enriched EVs and EVs from raw plasma. Univariate analyses identified markers predicting preterm delivery and preeclampsia over term delivery controls with AUC >0.6 and sensitivity >50% at 80% specificity. Combining the best markers in a multivariate model, preeclampsia prediction over term delivery had an AUC of 0.89 (95% CI: 0.72–1.0) with 90% sensitivity and 90% specificity, marked by inflammation (TNF RII), relaxation (placenta protein 13 (PP13)), and immune‐modulation (LFA1) receptors. Preterm delivery prediction over term delivery had an AUC of 0.97 (0.94–1.0), 84% sensitivity, and 90% specificity, marked by cell adhesion (ICAM), immune suppression, and general EV markers (CD81, CD82, and Alix). Preeclampsia prediction over preterm delivery had an AUC of 0.91 (0.79–0.99) with 80% sensitivity and 90% specificity with markers for complement activation (C1q) and autoimmunity markers.

Conclusions

The new, robust EV Multi‐Array analyzer and methodology offer a simple, fast diagnostic tool that reveals novel surface markers for major obstetric syndromes.
Prognostic impact of subepithelial Helicobacter pylori infection on clinical outcomes in patients with dyspepsia
Authors: Supakatitham Chalermpak , Loharamtaweethong Kongsak
Published: November 2024

Several in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that Helicobacter pylori can invade epithelial cells and the lamina propria, potentially leading to underdiagnosis due to its subepithelial location. This retrospective study investigated H. pylori infection patterns and their impact on clinical improvement. Gastric tissue biopsies from 346 patients (August to December 2021) were studied using four commercially available immunohistochemical antibodies (TMDU, BioGenex, Cell Marque, and DAKO). The bacteria were graded based on their surface epithelial and subepithelial locations and then combined to establish an overall pattern. BioGenex, the antibody with the highest diagnostic performance due to its superior detection of surface and subepithelial cases, was selected as the gold standard for determining study outcomes. The isolated subepithelial H. pylori pattern was found to be an independent unfavorable prognostic feature. Patients with this pattern had the worst clinical outcomes compared to groups with isolated surface epithelial or other mixed patterns, which did not significantly differ. Subepithelial H. pylori should be included in pathological reports alongside the updated Sydney System. Further research should explore whether its eradication could improve treatment outcomes.
Explaining seasonality increases perceived effectiveness of influenza vaccination: An experimental study
Authors: Felgendreff Lisa , Rebitschek Felix G. , Shamsrizi Parichehr , Geiger Mattis , Jenny Mirjam A. , Betsch Cornelia
Published: November 2024

Background

Doubts regarding vaccine effectiveness may prompt people to decide against a seasonal influenza vaccination. While fact boxes show the effectiveness in terms of cases prevented, people often lack knowledge about important contextual factors, for example, why the vaccine formulation needs to be updated annually, the vaccine mechanism and relevance of the antigen–virus match. Adding such contextual information could improve effectiveness perceptions.

Objective

In a preregistered online experiment, we tested whether explaining the seasonality's relevance and mechanisms behind influenza vaccine effectiveness affects people's perceptions of influenza vaccination. We compared two means of explanation (an additional expository text vs. a narrative offering an analogy to improve understanding of vaccine effectiveness) with a control condition simply providing effectiveness information.

Design

Unvaccinated participants (N = 1554) were assigned to one of three conditions: (1) fact box only (providing the influenza vaccine's benefit–risk profile; control group), (2) fact box plus informational expository text or (3) fact box plus narrative analogy.

Methods

After the experimental manipulations, participants rated the vaccine's effectiveness in preventing influenza disease and answered knowledge questions. Effects on perceived risk of vaccination and intention to get vaccinated were also explored.

Results

Reading the expository text increased the perceived vaccine effectiveness and overall knowledge, while reading the narrative analogy only increased the perceived vaccine effectiveness compared with the control condition. All other dependent variables were similar in both text conditions.

Conclusions

Extended explanations of vaccine effectiveness can increase perceived vaccine effectiveness. The text format chosen can affect outcomes, such as vaccine‐related perceptions or knowledge.
The impacts of message framing on consumer preferences for gene editing
Authors: Orivri Glory Esohe , Kassas Bachir , Lai John , House Lisa , Nayga Rodolfo M.
Published: November 2024

Framing the same information in different ways can influence consumers’ decision making. This study assesses the impacts of information framing tools on consumer preference for a relatively novel food biotechnology tool – Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR). Using an online survey of U.S. orange juice consumers, we randomized consumers into a control and two treatment groups (gain vs. loss framing) and used a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to measure and compare consumers’ preferences across treatments. We find that both frames are effective in reducing the degree of aversion towards CRISPR, but the gain frame carries a stronger effect.
Protected area coverage of the full annual cycle of migratory butterflies
Authors: Chowdhury Shawan , Cardillo Marcel , Chapman Jason W. , Green David , Norris D. Ryan , Riva Federico , Zalucki Myron P. , Fuller Richard A.
Published: November 2024

Effective conservation of migratory species relies on habitat protection throughout their annual cycle. Although protected areas (PAs) play a central role in conservation, their effectiveness at conserving habitats across the annual cycle of migratory species has rarely been assessed. We developed seasonal ecological niche models for 418 migratory butterfly species across their global distribution to assess whether they were adequately represented in the PAs across their full annual cycle. PA coverage was inadequate in at least one season for 84% of migratory butterflies, adequate for only 17% of species in one season, and inadequate for 45% of species in all seasons. There was marked geographic variation in PA coverage: 77% of species met representation targets in Sri Lanka, for example, but only 32% met targets in Italy. Our results suggest that coordinated efforts across multiple countries will be needed to develop international networks of PAs that cover the full annual cycle of migratory insects and that conservation measures, in addition to the establishment and maintenance of PAs, are likely to be needed to effectively conserve these species.
Unions and workplace safety investment in Chinese private enterprises
Authors: Chu Yinxiao , Huang Xiaoyu , Wei Jianxing
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the significant role of unions in workplace safety investment. Analyzing data from a national survey of Chinese private enterprises, we find that unionization has a positive effect on workplace safety investment. We test several mechanisms through which unionization may enhance workplace safety investment. Unionization increases investment in workplace safety by advocating for formal contracts between employees and firms. More importantly, unionization enhances workplace safety investment through the democratization of corporate governance structure. Furthermore, the employee representative assembly system, a fundamental mechanism for union participation in democratic management within Chinese firms, is also observed to augment safety investment.
Safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of the oral allosteric TYK2 inhibitor ESK‐001 using a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study design
Authors: Ucpinar Sibel , Kwan Joyce K. , Hoffman Joshua D. , Tilley Mera K. , Douglas Jeffrey A. , Rubio Roman G. , Lu Ruixiao , Nunn Philip A. , Langrish Claire L.
Published: November 2024

ESK‐001 is a highly selective allosteric inhibitor of tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2), which plays an essential role in mediating cytokine signaling in multiple immune‐mediated diseases. In 2 phase I studies, a first‐in‐human single ascending dose (SAD) and multiple ascending dose (MAD) study and a multiple‐dose (MD) study, we evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) of orally administered ESK‐001 in healthy participants using a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study design. ESK‐001 was rapidly absorbed with systemic exposures generally increasing dose‐proportionally across all cohorts. The mean terminal half‐life ranged from 8 to 13 h with no to minimal accumulation of ESK‐001 following q.d. doses and ~2‐fold accumulation following Q12 doses. Less than 1% of unchanged ESK‐001 was eliminated in urine. ESK‐001 inhibited the downstream TYK2 pathway as shown by inhibition of pSTAT1 expression. Transcriptomic analysis of unstimulated whole blood samples confirmed dose‐dependent inhibition of Type I IFN‐induced genes and SIGLEC1, a novel TYK2‐responsive biomarker. By correlating PK exposure data with PD readouts, a strong PK/PD relationship was demonstrated. There were no deaths, serious treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs), nor severe TEAEs, and most TEAEs were mild in severity. In conclusion, ESK‐001 was generally safe and well‐tolerated in healthy participants, showed linear dose‐dependent PK characteristics, and maximally inhibited TYK2‐dependent pathways with a predictable concentration‐dependent PK/PD relationship. These findings were used to select the dose range of ESK‐001 for the STRIDE phase II trial in plaque psoriasis and to support further clinical development of ESK‐001 in other TYK2‐mediated diseases.
Short‐term selective dorsal rhizotomy responders among children with bilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Papageorgiou Eirini , Everaert Laure , Molenaers Guy , Ortibus Els , Desloovere Kaat , Van Campenhout Anja
Published: November 2024

Aim

To identify the short‐term effects of selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) on gait and clinical impairments in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (CP) and subgroups based on baseline gait patterns.

Method

Eighty‐nine children with bilateral spastic CP (55 males, mean age [SD] before SDR: 9 years 5 months [2 years 3 months]; Gross Motor Function Classification System level I: 18; II: 54; III: 17) received three‐dimensional gait analyses at two time points (baseline and 1 year after SDR); their baseline gait patterns were classified. The analysis included the comparisons of (1) sagittal plane kinematic waveforms, the Gait Profile Score, and non‐dimensional spatiotemporal parameters between the two time points, (2) the kinematic waveforms of both time points to those of typically developing children, and (3) composite impairment scores of spasticity, weakness, and selectivity between the two time points.

Results

Overall, kinematics improved distally but deteriorated proximally in the entire sample, especially in genu recurvatum and crouch gait patterns. Jump gait showed the most improvements after SDR, followed by apparent equinus and crouch gait. Spasticity was reduced after SDR, but not at the expense of strength or selectivity.

Interpretation

The potential merit of investigating short‐term SDR effects on gait according to baseline gait patterns was shown, with an overview of changes after SDR that may facilitate patient‐tailored treatment.
Treatment persistence, adherence and healthcare resource utilisation for iGlarLixi versus basal–bolus insulin or premixed insulin in older adult ethnic minorities with type 2 diabetes: SoliEthnicity study
Authors: Umpierrez Guillermo , Gill Jasvinder , Hood David , Li Xuan , Núñez Ana
Published: November 2024

Aims

Most type 2 diabetes (T2D) studies have predominantly enrolled White people aged <65 years. This retrospective study evaluated outcomes for iGlarLixi (fixed‐ratio combination [FRC] of insulin glargine 100 U/mL and lixisenatide) versus basal–bolus or premixed insulin in African American, Asian and Hispanic adults with T2D aged ≥65 years.

Methods

Medicare claims data were assessed from beneficiaries receiving basal insulin who newly initiated iGlarLixi, basal–bolus insulin, or premixed insulin between 7/1/2019 and 12/30/2021. Groups were propensity score matched at baseline and followed for up to 12 months. Endpoints (primary: treatment persistence; secondary: treatment adherence, hypoglycaemia event rates, healthcare resource utilisation) were assessed using multivariable regression.

Results

Treatment persistence was higher for iGlarLixi versus basal–bolus or premixed insulin in the overall population (26.9%, 7.6%, 18.9%; adjusted p < 0.0001) and numerically higher in all ethnic subgroups. Treatment adherence was numerically higher for iGlarLixi versus basal–bolus or premixed insulin in the overall population (28.0%, 8.0%, 19.0%) and in all subgroups. Hypoglycaemia event rates were numerically lower for iGlarLixi versus basal–bolus insulin or premixed insulin in the overall population (2.5, 3.8, 7.5/100 person‐years' follow‐up) and in all subgroups except Asians receiving basal–bolus insulin. All‐cause and diabetes‐related hospitalisation and emergency department visit event rates were lower with iGlarLixi versus basal–bolus insulin or premixed insulin in the overall population, and in all subgroups except for hospitalisations in Hispanics.

Conclusion

FRC therapies such as iGlarLixi represent an appropriate treatment option when intensifying basal insulin therapy in ethnic minority older adults with T2D.
Early combination therapy with SGLT2i and GLP‐1 RA or dual GIP/GLP‐1 RA in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Vale Catarina , Lourenço Inês Mariana , Jordan Gabriela , Golovaty Ilya , Torres Hugo , Moin Tannaz , Buysschaert Martin , Neves João Sérgio , Bergman Michael
Published: November 2024

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon‐Like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA) are recommended in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) for glycaemic control and for people with high cardiovascular risk. However, current guidelines do not specifically address the role of initial early combination therapy with SGLT2i and GLP‐1 RA or dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP)/GLP‐1 RA, but rather sequential initiation with either in T2D. This review synthesizes the available evidence on the use of SGLT2i and GLP‐1‐based therapies for T2D and provides a rationale for their combination. The combination of SGLT2i with GLP‐1‐based therapies addresses complementary pathophysiological mechanisms and enhances efficacy in achieving target haemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) levels. SGLT2i and GLP‐1 RA also have been shown to prevent complications of T2D. While both classes reduce adverse cardiorenal events, SGLT2i has a predominant effect on prevention of kidney dysfunction and heart failure, whereas GLP‐1 RA has a more marked effect on the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Both drug classes have favourable safety profiles. Finally, weight loss with combination therapy may have disease‐modifying effects that may reverse T2D progression. We propose that the combination of SGLT2i with GLP‐1 RA or dual GIP/GLP‐1 RA should be considered for most patients with T2D who do not have contraindications.
Psychosocial outcomes in a diverse sample of youth and their families who initiated continuous glucose monitoring within the first year of type 1 diabetes diagnosis
Authors: Addala Ananta , Ritter Victor , Schneider‐Utaka Aika K. , Alamarie Selma A. , Pang Erica , Balistreri Ilenia , Shaw Blake , Bishop Franziska K. , Zaharieva Dessi P. , Prahalad Priya , Desai Manisha , Maahs David M. , Hood Korey K. ,   the 4T Team
Published: November 2024

Aims

Psychosocial impacts of early continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) initiation in youth soon after type 1 diabetes diagnosis are underexplored. We report parent/guardian and youth patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) that measure psychosocial states for families in 4T Study 1.

Materials and Methods

Of the 133 families in the 4T Study 1, 132 parent/guardian and 66 youth (≥11 years) were eligible to complete PROs. PROs evaluated included diabetes distress, global health, diabetes technology attitudes and CGM benefits/burden scales. Temporal trends of PROs were assessed via generalised linear mixed effects regression. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with PROs were evaluated. Psychosocial associations were evaluated by regressing parental distress on youth distress.

Results

PRO completion rates were 85.6% and varied between parent/guardian and youth. Throughout the study, parent/guardian and youth distress remained low and youth had increased technology acceptance (p = 0.046). Each additional month of CGM use was associated with a 14% decrease in the odds of experiencing diabetes distress (aOR = 0.86, 95% CI [0.76, 0.99], p = 0.029). Additionally, higher time‐in‐range was associated with decreased diabetes distress (p = 0.048). Age, diabetic ketoacidosis at diagnosis, gender, ethnicity, insurance status and language spoken were not associated with PROs.

Conclusions

Initiation of CGM shortly after type 1 diabetes diagnosis does not have unintended negative psychological consequences. Longer duration of CGM use was associated with decreased youth distress and technology acceptance increased throughout the study.
Government Intelligent Transformation and Mixed‐Ownership Reform: Evidence From China
Authors: Li Bin , Cao Ruiqing , Shi Chenchen , Zhao Jing
Published: November 2024

Mixed‐ownership reform (the Reform) is crucial for the construction of a modern market economy. Through a proprietary data set of 32 provinces in China, we find that government intelligent transformation (GIT) can attract private firms acquiring local state‐owned enterprises (SOEs), and such link is stronger among target firms in central and western regions, and acquirers with lower competitive positions and higher levels of digital transformation. Additionally, we also find this effect exists both in local and nonlocal private firms. Further tests suggest that GIT can regulate government behaviors, reduce relational transactions, and enhance local policy environment quality and the level of local market legal governance, thereby promoting private firms to participate in the Reform. Moreover, in the provinces with higher levels of GIT, there is a greater likelihood that private firms will gain control rights over SOEs and obtain more resources following the Reform. Our findings may have policy implications for the world's largest emerging market.
Factors Influencing the Quality of Undergraduate Students' Degree Projects: From Student and Supervisor Perspectives
Authors: Christidis Maria , Waters Petra , Ärlegård Linnéa , Säflund Zoe , Christidis Nikolaos
Published: November 2024

Background

Degree projects are part of most professional study programmes and correspond to professional and academic requirements. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate factors that influence the quality of student degree projects from a supervisor and student perspective.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were performed with eight supervisors from the study programme in dentistry at Karolinska Institutet. The interviews were transcribed. The first part was summarised and described, and the second part was analysed thematically. Also, a questionnaire was completed by 45 students in their 7th and 9th semesters of the study programme. Student responses were summarised and described.

Results

The main findings indicate a convergence of expectations and perspectives between supervisors and students regarding the factors that influence the quality of the degree project. They emphasise the importance of realistic expectations, feasibility and adherence to academic standards for a high‐quality outcome. Effective supervision involves the supervisor being readily available, responsive to student inquiries and supportive in time–management. Conversely, students are expected to demonstrate motivation, engagement and increasing autonomy. Additionally, both agree that the project should be engaging, relevant to the supervisor's expertise and the student's interests, contribute to personal and academic growth and ideally result in a publication.

Conclusions

Taken together, supervisors and students share grounds for the degree project work, which is an important condition for ensuring a qualitatively sound degree project. Sharing expectations and perspectives in the beginning and having a continuously open dialogue concerning this issue during the degree project work benefits a sustainable collaboration and ensures quality.
Talquetamab in Multiple Myeloma: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Directions
Authors: Labanca Caterina , Martino Enrica Antonia , Vigna Ernesto , Bruzzese Antonella , Mendicino Francesco , Lucia Eugenio , Olivito Virginia , Puccio Noemi , Neri Antonino , Morabito Fortunato , Gentile Massimo
Published: November 2024

Relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) remains a challenging condition despite advances in immunotherapies. Novel bispecific antibodies (BsAbs), including talquetamab, have shown promising efficacy in heavily pretreated patients, even those with triple‐ and penta‐refractory disease. Talquetamab, recently approved by the FDA and EMA, is indicated for patients who have progressed after at least three or four prior lines of therapy (LOTs). Administered following a step‐up dosing phase to manage cytokine release syndrome (CRS), talquetamab demonstrated a high overall response rate (ORR) of approximately 70%, including in patients previously treated with T‐cell redirecting therapies. Its safety profile is consistent with other BsAbs, with hematologic adverse events such as anemia and neutropenia commonly reported, alongside unique on‐target off‐tumor toxicities like dysgeusia and skin‐related events. Infections were less frequent compared to other BsAbs. The optimal sequencing of talquetamab and other therapies, including CAR‐T cell treatments, remains an area of active research, as resistance to anti‐BCMA therapies presents ongoing clinical challenges. Current trials are exploring the use of talquetamab in combination therapies, as well as therapeutic strategies post‐treating progression. The real‐world data further support talquetamab's efficacy, making it a valuable addition to the RRMM treatment landscape.
Benzodiazepine rescue medication administration for seizure clusters: Real‐world retrospective outcomes
Authors: Chiang Sharon , Moss Robert , Misra Sunita N. , Carrazana Enrique , Rabinowicz Adrian L.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Benzodiazepine rescue medications are established as therapy for acute termination of seizure clusters. A post‐hoc analysis of a clinical trial of seizure cluster treatment with diazepam nasal spray found a potential longer‐term impact over a year of treatment. In this retrospective analysis, we tested the hypothesis that benzodiazepine‐treated seizure clusters are associated with prolonged time to the next seizure cluster compared with untreated seizure clusters in a patient‐reported real‐world database.

Methods

We analyzed data on self‐reported seizures and benzodiazepine rescue medication administration in the Seizure Tracker™ database between 2007 and 2022. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to compare treated vs untreated seizure clusters with respect to time to start of the next seizure cluster or immediate‐use medication administration. Mixed‐effects analysis was used to compare the number of seizures per cluster for treated and untreated seizure clusters. Robustness of findings was evaluated across three operational seizure‐cluster definitions: ≥2 seizures in 4 hours as primary analysis and in 6 and 24 hours as sensitivity analyses.

Results

A total of 10 889 benzodiazepine immediate‐use medication administrations (n = 220 patients) met inclusion criteria. Benzodiazepine rescue administrations were followed by longer time to the next seizure cluster or rescue administration, compared with untreated seizure clusters, corresponding to a median of 4.9 days following treated seizure clusters and a median of 0.8 days following untreated seizure clusters. This prolongation was driven by a minority of patients (accounting for 45.9% of seizure clusters in the sample) and patients were more likely to be women. The number of seizures per cluster was lower when treatment was administered earlier in the seizure cluster.

Significance

These retrospective real‐world data suggest that the effect of benzodiazepines on termination of seizure clusters may be more pronounced when administration occurs earlier after onset, and support a hypothesis of a possible longer‐term effect of benzodiazepines beyond immediate‐use acute seizure termination.
Multi‐Taxa Responses to Climate Change in the Amazon Forest
Authors: Rodrigues‐Filho Carlos A. S. , Costa Flávia R. C. , Schietti Juliana , Nogueira Anselmo , Leitão Rafael Pereira , Menger Juliana , Borba Gabriel , Gerolamo Caian Souza , Avilla Stefano S. , Emilio Thaise , de Castilho Carolina Volkmer , Bastos Douglas Aviz , Rocha Elisangela Xavier , Fernandes Itanna O. , Cornelius Cintia , Zuanon Jansen , Souza Jorge L. P. , Utta Ana C. S. , Baccaro Fabricio B.
Published: November 2024

Tropical biodiversity is undergoing unprecedented changes due to the hydrological cycle intensification, characterized by more intense droughts and wet seasons. This raises concerns about the resilience of animal and plant communities to such extremes and the existence of potential refugia—areas theorized to safeguard biological communities from adverse climate impacts. Over 20 years of monitoring in Central Amazonia, we investigated the short‐term and long‐term effects of hydrological cycle intensification on bird, fish, ant, and palm communities. We explored whether the ‘insurance effect’ of climate trends (droughts buffered by preceded wet seasons) or ‘environmental refugia’ (droughts or floods buffered by topographic features) could lessen the impact of climate events on community composition, richness, evenness, and species rank. Pronounced abundance changes were observed among animal species, whereas palm species showed relative temporal stability. Birds and fish were more affected by the immediate and long‐term severity of droughts and wet periods, while ants responded primarily to short‐term drought impacts. Conversely, palm communities exhibited delayed responses to climate extremes, primarily in long‐term comparisons. As expected, the proposed ‘insurance effect’ mitigates the long‐term impacts of extreme climate events on animal and plant community trends. However, less extreme hydrological conditions linked to topographic features did not provide effective ‘environmental refugia’ for animals or plants during adverse climate conditions. These outcomes underscore the complex and varied biological responses to ongoing climate change, challenging the prevailing assumptions about the efficacy of environmental refugia and highlighting the nuanced resilience of biodiversity in Central Amazonia.
The determinants of double energy vulnerability: A geospatial analysis
Authors: Bouzarovski Stefan , McKenzie Paul , Lonie Aileen , Sarpotdar Amish , Mattioli Giulio , Martiskainen Mari
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the spatial and social differences in people's lack of access to adequate energy and transport services in the UK. We respond to the need for developing a differentiated understanding of both the drivers and expressions of this ‘double energy vulnerability’ (DEV), while seeking to integrate and analyse relevant information from all four UK nations. Using a variety of statistically representative census and survey datasets, the paper develops a series of multi‐dimensional indices to map transport‐ and energy‐related injustices. This is followed by a cluster analysis to examine broad‐level geographical patterns, and a Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) model to explore the spatial variation of vulnerabilities related to contingencies such as income, ethnicity and housing. The paper corroborates the results of previous qualitative studies, and research within selected UK nations, while revealing several unexpected territorial clusters and underpinnings of infrastructural injustice. DEV is shown to disproportionately affect coastal, highland, peripheral and rural regions, with an internal granularity that exhibits high levels of variation within urban and peri‐urban settings.
Assessment of joint health in females with haemophilia: The carriers ultrasound project (CUP) study
Authors: Corrales‐Medina Fernando F. , Fraga Kelli , D'Almeida Bastos Maria , Rafique Amina , Kempton Christine L. , Vijayvargia Pooja , Davis Joanna A. , Kronenfeld Rachel S.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The needs of haemophilia carriers (HC) have been historically overlooked. It is now recognised that HC manifests bleeding symptoms, including haemarthrosis. The natural history of joint health in HC is not yet defined.

Aim

A multi‐institutional cross‐sectional study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of joint disease in HC, aged 18–40 years, compared to age‐matched controls.

Methods

The carrier cohort included females with confirmed HC status. Controls had no personal or family history of bleeding disorders. All females with a history of joint trauma or surgery within 12 months or any history of joint replacement were excluded. Joint health was assessed by clinical history, Haemophilia Joint Health Score (HJHS) and point‐of‐care musculoskeletal ultrasonography (POC‐MSKUS).

Results

Thirty HC and 30 controls were enrolled. For HC, the median factor activity level was 52% (range 17%–100%). Carriers, regardless of baseline factor activity levels, reported higher prevalence of chronic joint pain (p < .001) and swelling (p = .002) than controls. Heavy menstrual bleeding, epistaxis, gingival bleeding and easy bruising were also more prevalent in HC (p < .001). Despite HC having a higher median HJHS score (5 vs. 0, p < .001), no differences were observed when using POC‐MSKUS. HC with a body mass index ≥25 mg/m2 reported more haemarthrosis (p = .037).

Conclusions

HC are at increased risk of joint‐related symptoms and poorer joint health than age‐matched controls. Dedicated follow‐up to prevent and treat joint disease in HC is imperative. This study is also a call for additional investigation to clarify the association, or lack thereof, between factor activity and joint disease.
Operating room radiation safety measures: Awareness, compliance, and perceived risks among nurses and other healthcare workers
Authors: Shubayr Nasser
Published: November 2024

Aim

This study evaluates and compares nurses’ and other healthcare workers’ awareness of and compliance with radiation protection measures in operating rooms and their perceived susceptibility to occupational illness due to radiation exposure.

Background

Compliance with radiation safety measures minimises occupational radiation exposure risks. Understanding the role of perceived susceptibility to occupational illness in motivating compliance and awareness can enhance safety interventions.

Methods

Using a questionnaire‐based cross‐sectional observational design, this study targeted nurses, physicians, and radiologic technologists working in Saudi Arabian operating rooms. The survey measured awareness of and compliance with radiation protection measures and perceived susceptibility to occupational illness. The STROBE checklist was followed to ensure methodological rigour.

Results

Nurses demonstrated the lowest awareness and compliance, and the highest perceived susceptibility to occupational illnesses compared to other healthcare professionals. There was a moderate positive correlation between increased awareness of safety measures and compliance, but a weaker correlation between adherence and perceived risk.

Discussion

Nurses’ compliance and awareness did not align with their risk perceptions, suggesting a cognitive‐behavioural gap in which stronger risk perceptions among nurses do not lead to proactive protective behaviours. This discrepancy may be attributed to the demanding nature of nursing duties, which often overshadow strict adherence to safety protocols.

Conclusion

The study identified significant disparities in radiation safety practices, with nurses demonstrating less awareness and compliance but higher risk perceptions than other healthcare professionals. Interventions are needed to bridge the gap between perceived risk and actual safety behaviours.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Role‐specific training programmes and continuous education are needed to enhance radiation safety practices among nurses. Policies must support these educational efforts, ensuring that nurses can balance patient care responsibilities with radiation protection measures.
Effectiveness of nursing interventions based on lung cancer trajectory: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Hye Jin , Lee Myung Kyung
Published: November 2024

Aim(s)

To evaluate the effectiveness of nursing interventions based on the lung cancer trajectory.

Background

The transition to the chronic state of lung cancer requires a shift in the management paradigm. Nurses are crucial in managing the health of patients with lung cancer through various services. Therefore, rigorous research is required to understand and provide evidence on the influence of nursing interventions.

Sources of evidence

We systematically selected studies on nursing interventions for patients with lung cancer published from 2000 to 2022 based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. A systematic review was conducted according to the Cochrane Handbook and PRIMA 2020 guidelines, and a meta‐analysis was performed. The risk of bias in the included studies was evaluated using ROB 2.0.

Results

In this study, lung cancer trajectories were classified into diagnosis, treatment, survival, and end‐of‐life care based on a literature review. A meta‐analysis of 47 nursing intervention studies involving 4852 patients confirmed the large effectiveness in significantly improving health‐related quality of life, emotional symptoms, self‐care behaviors, adjustment, satisfaction, health resource use, cost‐effectiveness, and cancer symptoms. Only one study has been conducted on the end‐of‐life trajectory, highlighting the need for more nursing intervention research in this area.

Conclusions

Recent nursing experimental studies involving patients with lung cancer show small, large, and medium effect sizes during the diagnosis, treatment, and survival trajectories, respectively.

Implications for nursing practice and research

A tailored nursing plan based on the disease trajectory is essential. Stakeholders should consider allocating resources to develop and strengthen nursing interventions, particularly at the diagnostic and end‐of‐life trajectories.
Effectiveness of nursing interventions on patient experiences with health care: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Yijing , Liu Shanshan , Cai Yan , Cun Wei , Zhang Xue , Jiang Yan
Published: November 2024

Aim

To synthesize and evaluate the effects of nurse‐led or nursing‐focused interventions for improving patient experience with health care in hospitals.

Background

Patient experiences have increasingly been highlighted as a key healthcare quality indicator in many countries with highly developed healthcare systems. It is critical to learn about the effectiveness of previously conducted nursing interventions since nursing care is reported to be the primary driver of patient experience.

Methods

This systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted in accordance with the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis and followed the PRISMA statement guidelines. The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases were systematically searched in May 2023. Randomized controlled trials and quasi‐experimental studies that were led by nurses or focused on nursing care strategies were included. The JBI critical appraisal checklists were employed to assess methodological quality.

Results

A total of 15 761 records were identified; 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Nursing interventions focused on optimizing the approach to nursing rounds, enhancing communication with patients, improving patient education, and increasing interaction with patients. The meta‐analysis showed that nursing interventions increased top‐box responses in the communication about medicines and discharge information dimensions, as well as the overall experience dimension, including the overall hospital rating and willingness to recommend the hospital.

Conclusions

Although few studies were included, this meta‐analysis showed that nursing interventions improved patients’ experiences in communication about medicines and discharge information, as well as their overall experience. More rigorous studies are needed to better understand the effect of nursing interventions and examine which components may be most effective for improved outcomes.

Implications for nursing practice and nursing policy

Owing to the powerful influence of nursing, strategies to engage nurses are a means of improving patient experiences. More attention should be given to patients’ experiences of communication with doctors and nurses, and more randomized controlled trials are needed to provide high‐quality evidence.
The Pathobiome of Salmo trutta From the North Sea to the Barents Sea
Authors: Lennox Robert J. , Miller Kristina M. , Madhun Abdullah , Schulze Angela D. , Eldøy Sindre Håvarstein , Isaksen Trond E. , Nilsen Rune , Shea Dylan , Birnie‐Gauvin Kim , Davidsen Jan Grimsrud , Cooke Steven J. , Vollset Knut Wiik
Published: November 2024

Aim

Salmonids are some of the best studied species with respect to their pathobiome, and at the northern range limit, there is potential for pathogens to expand with both climate change and increased fish farming in the north.

Location

We sampled sea‐run brown trout from throughout Norway for gill tissue and conducted both pooled and individual screenings for a total of 47 pathogens.

Time Period

Samples were collected during spring in 2020 and 2021.

Major Taxa

Bacteria, viruses and parasites of sea‐run brown trout.

Methods

Brown trout were gill biopsied as part of the national sea lice monitoring programme and samples were sent for laboratory analysis using the Fluidigm system, which screened for a broad panel of different pathogenic species.

Results

Permutated multivariate analysis of variance revealed that the pathobiome richness of trout was more related to latitude than to fish farming biomass in the region where samples were taken. However, non‐metric multidimensional scaling revealed a significant association between the individual pathobiome and the number of copepodid‐stage Lepeophtheirus salmonis lice, which did reveal a south/central versus northern Norway segregation in pathogen distributions. Importantly, many pathogens positively associated with sea lice in southern/central Norway are known to be carried, and potentially transmitted by sea lice.

Main conclusions

In northern Norway, pathogens normally associated with infection and disease in trout were more commonly observed. However, given that most pathogens were detected from southern to northern Norway, it appears that further expansion of farms in the north are not likely to lead to further introductions of pathogens into northern areas of Norway, although it could amplify the prevalence of these pathogens on wild salmon.
Adopting Additive Manufacturing in After‐Sales: Developing a Typology of Corrective, Preventive, and Anticipatory Approaches
Authors: Kabelitz‐Bock Robin , Hoberg Kai , Meuer Johannes
Published: November 2024

Manufacturing firms face complex after‐sales challenges, including spare part shortages. While additive manufacturing (AM) offers a solution by minimizing costs and complexity, not all firms adopt AM equally, and research on differences in AM adoption in the context of spare part shortages is surprisingly scarce. To close this knowledge gap, we apply the awareness‐motivation‐capability (AMC) perspective. Our comparative case study of AM applications in 17 firms identifies three approaches how firms adopt AM—the corrective, preventive, and anticipatory approach. We find that the specific configuration of contextual factors related to a spare part shortage determines the approach firms follow. Using the AMC perspective, we discover and explain why firms differ in adopting AM despite suitable spare part characteristics and similar contexts. Through uniquely analyzing spare part shortages, our study contributes to AM research by challenging the assumption that economic justification is the sole driver of AM adoption and instead revealing that it is a context‐dependent process, with awareness and motivation serving as critical yet underexplored antecedents.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Stigma Among Adolescents: Effect of Mental Health Awareness and Destigmatisation (MHAD) Program
Authors: Manjari Abhirami S. , Sudhesh N. T.
Published: November 2024

Background

Stigma against mental health problems is a common issue for adolescents aged 14–18 years. However, comprehensive programs that simultaneously address awareness and stigma reduction tailored to the specific needs of this age group are lacking.

Method

This study investigated the effectiveness of the Mental Health Awareness and Destigmatisation Program (MHAD) in reducing stigma and improving knowledge and attitudes towards peers with mental health problems. A quasi‐experimental pre‐post design was employed among adolescents aged 14–18 years from an educational institution in Bangalore. After excluding those with high baseline mental health symptoms (PSC‐17 > 20), a preassessment was conducted on adolescents' knowledge, attitude, and stigma (n = 52) using the Mental Health Knowledge Schedule, Self‐structured Case Vignettes, and Peer Mental Health Stigmatization Scale. After completing the 6‐week program, three participants were excluded from the post‐assessment, as their attendance was less than 50%. A total of 49 (mean age = 16 years) adolescents were included in the post‐assessment.

Results

The paired sample t‐test revealed significant improvements in all stigma scores. The Wilcoxon signed‐rank test indicated a significant improvement in Recognition of Mental Illness scores.

Conclusion

Findings showed that MHAD, an education‐based program, was effective in reducing adolescents' stigma towards peers with mental health problems and improving their overall recognition of mental health symptoms. Research across larger adolescent populations is essential to enhance these interventions' long‐term impact and sustainability. By closely monitoring and expanding research efforts, we can gain deeper insights into how these programs foster self‐awareness, a crucial factor in recognizing mental health needs, challenging stigma, and promoting help‐seeking behaviors among adolescents.
Nonlesional ileal transcriptome in Crohn's disease reveals alterations in immune response and metabolic pathway
Authors: Lee Ho‐Su , Lee Yoonho , Baek Jiwon , Kim Yongjae , Park Sojung , Jung Seulgi , Lee Jong Geol , Baek In‐Jeoung , Kim Kyuwon , Hwang Sung Wook , Lee Jong Lyul , Park Sang Hyoung , Yang Suk‐Kyun , Han Buhm , Song Kyuyoung , Yoon Yong Sik , Ye Byong Duk
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

We aimed to assess the gene expression profiles of nonlesional small bowels in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) to identify its accompanying molecular alterations.

Methods

We performed RNA sequencing of the uninflamed small bowel tissues obtained from 70 patients with ileal CD and 9 patients with colon cancer (non‐CD controls) during bowel resection. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analyses were performed using DESeq2. Gene set enrichment, correlation, and cell deconvolution analyses were applied to identify modules and functionally enriched transcriptional signatures of CD.

Results

A comparison of CD patients and non‐CD controls revealed that of the 372 DEGs, 49 protein‐coding genes and 5 long non‐coding RNAs overlapped with the inflammatory bowel disease susceptibility loci. The pathways related to immune and inflammatory reactions were upregulated in CD, while metabolic pathways were downregulated in CD. Compared with non‐CD controls, CD patients had significantly higher proportions of immune cells, including plasma cells (P = 1.15 × 10−4), and a lower proportion of epithelial cells (P = 1.12 × 10−4). Co‐upregulated genes (M14 module) and co‐downregulated genes (M9 module) were identified in CD patients. The M14 module was enriched in immune‐related genes and significantly associated with the responses to anti‐tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy. The core signature of the M14 module was comprised of six genes and was upregulated in nonresponders to anti‐TNF therapy of five independent cohorts (n = 163), indicating acceptable discrimination ability (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 75–86%).

Conclusions

The differences in gene expression and cellular composition between CD patients and non‐CD controls imply significant molecular alterations, which are associated with the response to anti‐TNF treatment.