bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food insecurity in adults with severe mental illness living in Northern England: A co‐produced cross‐sectional study
Authors: Smith Jo , Eskandari Fatemeh , McGeechan Grant J. , Teasdale Scott B. , Lake Amelia A. , Ker Suzy , Williamson Kevin , Augustine Alex , Sauvage Nikita Le , Lynch Chris , Moore Hannah , Scott Steph , Ekers David , Whittaker Vicki , Robinson Jonathan , Giles Emma L.
Published: March 2024

Aim

This study aimed to explore food insecurity prevalence and experiences of adults with severe mental illness living in Northern England.

Methods

This mixed‐methods cross‐sectional study took place between March and October 2022. Participants were adults with self‐reported severe mental illness living in Northern England. The survey included demographic, health, and financial questions. Food insecurity was measured using the US Department of Agriculture Adult Food Security measure. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression; and qualitative data using content analysis.

Results

In total, 135 participants completed the survey, with a mean age of 44.7 years (SD: 14.1, range: 18–75 years). Participants were predominantly male (53.3%), white (88%) and from Yorkshire (50.4%). The food insecurity prevalence was 50.4% (n = 68). There was statistical significance in food insecurity status by region (p = 0.001); impacts of severe mental illness on activities of daily living (p = 0.02); and the Covid pandemic on food access (p < 0.001). The North West had the highest prevalence of food insecurity (73.3%); followed by the Humber and North East regions (66.7%); and Yorkshire (33.8%). In multivariable binary logistic regression, severe mental illness' impact on daily living was the only predictive variable for food insecurity (odds ratio = 4.618, 95% confidence interval: 1.071–19.924, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

The prevalence of food insecurity in this study is higher than is reported in similar studies (41%). Mental health practitioners should routinely assess and monitor food insecurity in people living with severe mental illness. Further research should focus on food insecurity interventions in this population.
Oligarchy in professional accounting bodies: Challenges for governance and leader‐member relations
Authors: Clune Conor , Andon Paul
Published: March 2024

Drawing on Robert Michels's “iron law” of oligarchy, this study examines a governance crisis that unfolded at one of the world's largest professional accounting bodies (PABs)—CPA Australia. We leverage Michels's century‐old contribution to the social sciences to explore how this crisis sheds light on the challenges that PAB governance arrangements can pose when PAB leadership and membership priorities conflict. By applying Michels's seminal work to theorize the origins, escalation, leadership collapse, and eventual resolution of this PAB governance crisis, we illuminate how governance arrangements fueled conflict and fostered a democratic deficit that frustrated sections of the membership in their attempts to debate issues, exercise accountability on leadership matters, and become involved in governance reform. Overall, our analysis reveals that despite espoused principles of equity and participation, PABs are vulnerable to oligarchy impacting how their leaders relate to the interests of their members. Implications for the capacity of PABs to accommodate member conflict and for member participation in the current‐day professional context are discussed.
Martius flaps for low rectovaginal fistulae: a systematic review and proportional meta‐analysis
Authors: Swindon Daisy , Izwan Sara , Ng Justin , Chan Erick , Abbas Naveed , Von Papen Michael , Sahebally Shaheel Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Background

Rectovaginal fistulae (RVF) are notoriously challenging to treat. Martius flap (MF) is a technique employed to manage RVF, among various others, with none being universally successful. We aimed to assess the outcomes of RVF managed with MF interposition.

Methods

A PRISMA‐compliant meta‐analysis searching for all studies specifically reporting on the outcomes of MF for RVF was performed. The primary objective was the mean success rate, whilst secondary objectives included complications and recurrence. The MedCalc software (version 20.118) was used to conduct proportional meta‐analyses of data. Weighted mean values with 95% CI are presented and stratified according to aetiology where possible.

Results

Twelve non‐randomized (11 retrospective, 1 prospective) studies, assessing 137 MF were included. The mean age of the study population was 42.4 (±15.7), years. There were 44 primary and 93 recurrent RVF. The weighted mean success rate for MF when performed for primary RVF was 91.4% (95% CI: 79.45–98.46; I2 = 32.1%; P = 0.183) and that for recurrent RVF was 77.5% (95% CI: 62.24–89.67; I2 = 58.1%; P = 0.008). The weighted mean complication rate was 29% (95% CI: 8.98–54.68; I2 = 85.4%; P < 0.0001) and the overall recurrence rate was 12.0% (95% CI: 5.03–21.93; I2 = 52.3%; P = 0.021). When purely radiotherapy‐induced RVF were evaluated, the mean overall success rate was 94.6% (95% CI: 83.33–99.75; I2 = 0%; P = 0.350).

Conclusions

MF interposition appears to be more effective for primary than recurrent RVF. However, the poor quality of the data limits definitive conclusions being drawn and demands further assessment with randomized studies.
The role of multiple high‐risk human papillomavirus infection on the persistence recurrence of high‐grade cervical lesions after standard treatment: A systematic review and a meta‐analysis
Authors: Cassani Chiara , Dominoni Mattia , Pasquali Marianna Francesca , Gardella Barbara , Spinillo Arsenio
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The role of multiple high‐risk human papillomavirus (HR‐HPV) infections on the occurrence of persistence/recurrence of high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) after conization/surgery for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia was evaluated.

Material and methods

A systematic search of Pubmed/Medine, Scopus, Cochrane databases from inception to June 30, 2023 was performed. Three reviewers independently screened the abstracts of the selected studies and extracted data from full‐text articles. The data were subsequently tabulated and compared for consistency. The bias associated with each included study was evaluated according to the OSQE method. PROSPERO registration number CRD42023433022.

Results

Out of 1606 records screened, 22 full text articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 8321 subjects treated (loop electrosurgical excision, laser or surgery) because of HSIL were followed‐up and included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled prevalence of overall persistence and/or recurrence was 17.6 (95% CI: 12.3–23.5) in multiple and 14.3 (95% CI: 10.1–19.2) in single HR‐HPV infections detected shortly before or at surgery. The pooled rate of multiple HR‐HPV infections was 25% (95% CI: 20.4–30). The odds ratio of histologically confirmed HSIL persistence and/or recurrence was significantly higher (OR: 1.38, 95% CI:1.08–1.75, p = 0.01, heterogeneity = 39%) among multiple than single HR‐HPV infections. Increased risk of HSIL persistence/recurrence was more marked among studies with multiple HR‐HPVs prevalence ≥25% (12 studies, N = 3476) (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.18–1.84, heterogeneity = 0%) and in those evaluating true histologically confirmed recurrence after at least 6 months of negative follow‐up (9 studies, N = 5073) (OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.17–2.37, heterogeneity = 37%). Multiple HR‐HPVs infection detected during follow‐up visits had no effect on the risk of recurrence although the number of included studies was small (4 studies, N = 1248) (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.68–1.39, heterogeneity = 0%). The risk of bias was rated as high in 10 and low‐moderate in 12 studies, respectively. In subgroup analysis, the risk of bias of the included studies (low/moderate vs. high), had a small, although not significant effect on the odds ratios of persistence/recurrence of HSIL (OR: 1.57, 95% CI: 1.23–2 for low‐moderate risk of bias and OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.65–1.75 for high risk of bias; p‐value for subgroup differences = 0.17).

Conclusions

Multiple HR‐HPVs infections at the time of standard treatment of HSIL entail a small but significant increased risk of persistence/recurrence of HSIL and should be taken into account in the follow‐up plan.
Initial experience and surgical outcomes of robotic‐assisted total hysterectomy using the da Vinci SP surgical system
Authors: Miyamura Hironori , Takada Kyohei , Ohwaki Akiko , Kobayashi Arata , Ito Mayuko , Nomura Hiroyuki , Nishio Eiji , Nishizawa Haruki
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The da Vinci SP surgical system is a surgical platform capable of implementing robotic‐assisted surgery through a single port and was first introduced in Japan at our hospital. In this paper, we describe our experience of the initial introduction of the da Vinci SP surgical system and its surgical outcomes. This is the first report on the surgical outcomes of using da Vinci SP, and its comparison with the conventional system in Japan.

Methods

After developing an application for a highly difficult new medical technology in‐house, we compared the surgical outcomes (median values) of 15 patients who had undergone total hysterectomy at our hospital using the da Vinci SP (1‐port) system (SP group) for uterine myoma after March 2023 and of 154 patients who underwent total hysterectomy using the conventional da Vinci Xi (four ports) system (Xi group) for uteri weighing <500 g.

Results

The results of the comparison of the characteristics between 15 patients in the SP group and 154 patients in the Xi group were as follows: uterus weight (g): 230 (90–500) versus 222 (55–496) (p = .35); surgical time (minutes): 199 (171–251) versus 198 (88–387) (p = .63); intraoperative blood loss (mL): 13 (5–82) versus 20 (2–384) (p = .17); and rate of surgical complication (%): 0.0 versus 1.3 (p = .66). The data indicated a comparable weight of the resected uterus, surgical time, intraoperative blood loss, and rate of surgical complications between the two groups.

Conclusion

Robotic‐assisted total hysterectomy using the da Vinci SP surgical system allowed clinicians to safely perform surgeries according to the conventional systems.
The role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in metabolic diseases and mammary epithelial cell homeostasis in dairy cows
Authors: Yonekura Shinichi
Published: March 2024

High‐yielding dairy cows undergo various physiological stresses during the transitional phase of the calving cycle. In this period, they experience negative energy balance, subjecting the liver to significant metabolic stress from an influx of nonesterified fatty acids. This metabolic stress not only impairs liver function but also diminishes milk production. Early lactation dairy cows may develop endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the liver, potentially leading to liver‐related diseases and contributing to ER stress in mammary epithelial cells, resulting in decreased milk production. Natural products that alleviate ER stress have been identified, and if further in vivo studies confirm their efficacy, they have potential as feed additives to prevent disease and reduce milk yield. Conversely, physiological levels of ER stress play a role in mammary gland development and positively influence protein synthesis in milk. Understanding the threshold level of ER stress in mammary tissue and its detailed mechanisms will be crucial in dairy farming.
Therapeutic applicability of cannabidiol and other phytocannabinoids in epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease and in comorbidity with psychiatric disorders
Authors: de Fátima dos Santos Sampaio Maria , de Paiva Yara Bezerra , Sampaio Tuane Bazanella , Pereira Messias Gonzaga , Coimbra Norberto Cysne
Published: March 2024

Studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of cannabidiol (CBD) and other Cannabis sativa L. derivatives on diseases of the central nervous system caused by their direct or indirect interaction with endocannabinoid system‐related receptors and other molecular targets, such as the 5‐HT1A receptor, which is a potential pharmacological target of CBD. Interestingly, CBD binding with the 5‐HT1A receptor may be suitable for the treatment of epilepsies, parkinsonian syndromes and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, in which the 5‐HT1A serotonergic receptor plays a key role. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of cannabinoid effects on neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's diseases, and discuss their possible mechanism of action, highlighting interactions with molecular targets and the potential neuroprotective effects of phytocannabinoids. CBD has been shown to have significant therapeutic effects on epilepsy and Parkinson's disease, while nabiximols contribute to a reduction in spasticity and are a frequent option for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Although there are multiple theories on the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for neurological disorders, substantially greater progress in the search for strong scientific evidence of their pharmacological effectiveness is needed.
DNA methylation profiling of myelodysplastic syndromes and clinical response to azacitidine: A multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Noguera‐Castells Aleix , Campillo‐Marcos Ignacio , Davalos Veronica , García‐Prieto Carlos A. , Valcárcel David , Molero Antonieta , Palomo Laura , Gattermann Norbert , Wulfert Michael , Chaparro‐González Lorea , Solé Francesc , Cabezón Marta , Jiménez‐Lorenzo María J. , Xicoy Blanca , Zamora Lurdes , De Stefano Alessia , Casalin Irene , Finelli Carlo , Follo Matilde Y. , Esteller Manel
Published: March 2024

Real‐world data have revealed that a substantial portion of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) does not respond to epigenetic therapy with hypomethylating agents (HMAs). The cellular and molecular reasons for this resistance to the demethylating agent and biomarkers that would be able to predict the treatment refractoriness are largely unknown. In this study, we shed light on this enigma by characterizing the epigenomic profiles of patients with MDS treated with azacitidine. Our approach provides a comprehensive view of the evolving DNA methylation architecture of the disease and holds great potential for advancing our understanding of MDS treatment responses to HMAs.
Orosomucoid 2 upregulation mediates liver injury‐induced colorectal cancer liver metastasis by promoting EMT and cell migration
Authors: Wei Xundong , Wang Lei , Yang Bing , Ma Yuanyuan , Yuan Wei , Ma Jie
Published: March 2024

The relationship between drug‐induced liver injury and liver metastasis of colorectal cancer and the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In this study, we used carbon tetrachloride to construct a classic mouse liver injury model and injected CT26 colorectal cancer cells into the mouse spleen to simulate the natural route of colorectal cancer liver metastasis. Liver injury significantly increased the number of colorectal cancer liver metastases. Transcriptome sequencing and data‐independent acquisition protein quantification identified proteins that were significantly differentially expressed in injured livers, and orosomucoid (ORM) 2 was identified as a target protein for tumor liver metastasis. In vitro experiments showed that exogenous ORM2 protein increased the expression of EMT markers such as Twist, Zeb1, Vim, Snail1 and Snail2 and chemokine ligands to promote CT26 cell migration. In addition, liver‐specific overexpression of the ORM2 protein in the mouse model significantly promoted tumor cell liver metastasis without inducing liver injury. Our results indicate that drug‐induced liver injury can promote colorectal cancer liver metastasis and that ORM2 can promote cell migration by inducing EMT in tumor cells.
KLK10 derived from tumor endothelial cells accelerates colon cancer cell proliferation and hematogenous liver metastasis formation
Authors: Kato Kazuya , Noda Takehiro , Kobayashi Shogo , Sasaki Kazuki , Iwagami Yoshifumi , Yamada Daisaku , Tomimaru Yoshito , Takahashi Hidenori , Uemura Mamoru , Asaoka Tadafumi , Shimizu Junzo , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi
Published: March 2024

Tumor endothelial cells (TECs), which are thought to be structurally and functionally different from normal endothelial cells (NECs), are increasingly attracting attention as a therapeutic target in hypervascular malignancies. Although colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) tumors are hypovascular, inhibitors of angiogenesis are a key drug in multidisciplinary therapy, and TECs might be involved in the development and progression of cancer. Here, we analyzed the function of TEC in the CRLM tumor microenvironment. We used a murine colon cancer cell line (CT26) and isolated TECs from CRLM tumors. TECs showed higher proliferation and migration than NECs. Coinjection of CT26 and TECs yielded rapid tumor formation in vivo. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that coinjection of CT26 and TECs increased vessel formation and Ki‐67+ cells. Transcriptome analysis identified kallikrein‐related peptide 10 (KLK10) as a candidate target. Coinjection of CT26 and TECs after KLK10 downregulation with siRNA suppressed tumor formation in vivo. TEC secretion of KLK10 decreased after KLK10 downregulation, and conditioned medium after KLK10 knockdown in TECs suppressed CT26 proliferative activity. Double immunofluorescence staining of KLK10 and CD31 in CRLM tissues revealed a significant correlation between poor prognosis and positive KLK10 expression in TECs and tumor cells. On multivariate analysis, KLK10 expression was an independent prognostic factor in disease‐free survival. In conclusion, KLK10 derived from TECs accelerates colon cancer cell proliferation and hematogenous liver metastasis formation. KLK10 in TECs might offer a promising therapeutic target in CRLM.
Component‐specific clusters for diagnosis and prediction of allergic airway diseases
Authors: Howard Rebecca , Fontanella Sara , Simpson Angela , Murray Clare S. , Custovic Adnan , Rattray Magnus
Published: March 2024

Background

Previous studies which applied machine learning on multiplex component‐resolved diagnostics arrays identified clusters of allergen components which are biologically plausible and reflect the sources of allergenic proteins and their structural homogeneity. Sensitization to different clusters is associated with different clinical outcomes.

Objective

To investigate whether within different allergen component sensitization clusters, the internal within‐cluster sensitization structure, including the number of c‐sIgE responses and their distinct patterns, alters the risk of clinical expression of symptoms.

Methods

In a previous analysis in a population‐based birth cohort, by clustering component‐specific (c‐s)IgEs, we derived allergen component clusters from infancy to adolescence. In the current analysis, we defined each subject's within‐cluster sensitization structure which captured the total number of c‐sIgE responses in each cluster and intra‐cluster sensitization patterns. Associations between within‐cluster sensitization patterns and clinical outcomes (asthma and rhinitis) in early‐school age and adolescence were examined using logistic regression and binomial generalized additive models.

Results

Intra‐cluster sensitization patterns revealed specific associations with asthma and rhinitis (both contemporaneously and longitudinally) that were previously unseen using binary sensitization to clusters. A more detailed description of the subjects' within‐cluster c‐sIgE responses in terms of the number of positive c‐sIgEs and unique sensitization patterns added new information relevant to allergic diseases, both for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. For example, the increase in the number of within‐cluster positive c‐sIgEs at age 5 years was correlated with the increase in prevalence of asthma at ages 5 and 16 years, with the correlations being stronger in the prediction context (e.g. for the largest ‘Broad’ component cluster, contemporaneous: r = .28, p = .012; r = .22, p = .043; longitudinal: r = .36, p = .004; r = .27, p = .04).

Conclusion

Among sensitized individuals, a more detailed description of within‐cluster c‐sIgE responses in terms of the number of positive c‐sIgE responses and distinct sensitization patterns, adds potentially important information relevant to allergic diseases.
A Structural Measurement of the Valuation Effect of China's External Assets: Method and Application
Authors: Cai Guowei , Chen Xiaowei , Wang Xun
Published: March 2024

Existing research on the measurement of the valuation effect mainly follows the residual method proposed by Lane and Milesi‐Ferretti (2001). This cannot be used to perform structural decomposition. We propose an aggregation approach rather than the residual method to measure structurally the investment flow and valuation effect of China's external assets. The results indicate that the valuation effect of China's external assets has been highly volatile and it was negative during the pandemic period. The structural decomposition shows that portfolio investment and direct investment made the main contributions to the valuation effect. The impact of exchange rates on the valuation effect has generally been higher than that of asset price in terms of direct investment and total external assets but the opposite has been true for portfolio investment. China's outward investments are currently more inclined to Asian countries and a few European countries but inflows to China still mainly come from developed countries.
The demise of enemy release associated with the invasion of specialist folivores on an invasive tree
Authors: Medzihorský Vladimír , Mally Richard , Trombik Jiří , Turčáni Marek , Medzihorská Michaela , Shoda‐Kagaya Etsuko , Martin Grant D. , Sopow Stephanie , Kochi Kaori , Liebhold Andrew M.
Published: March 2024

There is a long history of humans either intentionally or accidentally moving plant species to areas outside of their native ranges. In novel environments, populations of many of these plant species exhibit explosive population growth and spread, in part due to the absence of coevolved enemies such as herbivorous insects. However, over time such enemies can ‘catch up' with their host and re‐establish host–herbivore relationships. Though this phenomenon has been documented in several systems, little evidence exists on how this re‐assembly of enemies results in increased levels of herbivory. In this study we focus on the case of black locust Robinia pseudoacacia, a sparsely populated tree species when growing on undisturbed sites in its limited native range in the eastern USA but a highly invasive species, especially in disturbed environments, in most temperate world regions. We recorded folivore damage on invasive populations in five continents, including both native and invaded portions of North America. Here, we investigated 1) how total foliage damage and damage caused by different groups of folivores differs among regions; 2) how seasonal development of folivore damage differs among regions; 3) how folivory varies with distance from the native range within North America; and 4) how the number of recorded specialist folivores correlates with the amount of folivory. We observed strong differences among regions in the amount and type of folivore damage, with the native range experiencing the highest damage, especially that caused by the native chrysomelid beetle Odontota dorsalis, which is limited to the native and invaded North American range of R. pseudoacacia. Among world regions, total folivory is negatively associated with the distance from the native range and positively associated with the number of established R. pseudoacacia specialist folivore species, supporting the hypothesis that global patterns of herbivore invasions are associated with diminished enemy release.
Policy pathways to reduce disproportionate burdens in tuna fisheries
Authors: Haas Bianca , Azmi Kamal , Sinan Hussain , Hanich Quentin
Published: March 2024

The United Nations Fish Stocks Agreement requires states to recognise the special requirements of developing countries and to ensure that conservation and management measures do not place a disproportionate burden on developing countries. The aim of this article is to assess what policy arrangements are required to reduce the identified disproportionate burden. We developed a policy pathway that would allow members of tuna regional fisheries management organisations (tRFMOs) to strengthen their efforts to meet their duty to share conservation burdens more equitably. This pathway consists of policy options that were developed by using policy analysis, which is an innovative approach that provides actionable outcomes that can be used by tRFMO member states. Despite the global attention to reducing disproportionate conservation burdens, developing states are still suffering. The results of this article provide novel and timely policy options that have the potential to reduce the conservation burden carried by developing states.
Bidirectional effect of uric acid on C2C12 myotubes and its partial mechanism
Authors: Li Yuanfen , Zhang Yingxiao , Wu Yaoxuan , Yu Jing , Guo Ai , Fu Rao , Xiao Qian
Published: March 2024

Aim

To explore the effects and mechanisms of different concentrations of uric acid on skeletal muscle cells.

Methods

C2C12 myoblasts were differentiated into myotubes and then exposed to a medium containing uric acid (0 μM, 200 μM, 400 μM, 600 μM, 800 μM, 1000 μM, 1200 μM, 1400 μM). The myotube diameters were observed under light microscopy; the expressions of myosin heavy chain (MyHC), autophagy‐related proteins (LC3BII/LC3BI, P62), cGAS, and p‐Sting/Sting proteins were analyzed using Western blotting or immunoprecipitation; and oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage were evaluated using ROS, mtDNA and JC‐1 assays. Cell viability was measured via CCK8 assay, and 1000‐μM uric acid was selected for follow‐up experiments. Furthermore, C2C12 myotubes were divided into a blank control group (Ctrl), a high‐uric‐acid group (HUA), and an HUA plus cGASn inhibitor group (HUA + RU.521). Then, the myotube diameter was observed, oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage were evaluated, and MyHC and autophagy‐related protein expressions were analysed.

Results

C2C12 myotubes cultured in 400‐μM uric acid medium had the greatest myotube diameter and the highest MyHC protein expression. At 1000‐μM uric acid, the diameter and MyHC protein expression were significantly decreased, LCB3II/LCB3I expression was notably increased, and the level of p62 protein expression was considerably decreased. RU.521 partially alleviated the HUA‐induced C2C12 myotubes changes.

Conclusions

Uric acid bidirectionally affected C2C12 myotubes: 400‐μΜ uric acid promoted myotube growth, while 1000‐μΜ uric acid triggered myotube atrophy with increased autophagy. Inhibiting cGAS‐Sting signaling attenuated HUA‐induced C2C12 myotube autophagy and atrophy. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 430–439.
Association between pharmacotherapy and secondary vertebral fracture managed with a brace in a real‐world setting: A nationwide database study in Japan
Authors: Nakatoh Shinichi , Fujimori Kenji , Ishii Shigeyuki , Tamaki Junko , Okimoto Nobukazu , Ogawa Sumito , Iki Masayuki
Published: March 2024

Aim

This retrospective cohort study assessed the association between the incidence of secondary vertebral fracture managed with a brace (SVF) and pharmacotherapy.

Methods

The association between the incidence of SVF and the presence, type, and medication possession ratio (MPR) of pharmacotherapy was investigated using medical insurance data acquired from the National Database of Health Insurance Claims and Specific Health Checkups of Japan.

Results

The data of female patients (n = 637 303) were analyzed. The 2‐year incidence of SVF was 73.5 per 10 000 patients (n = 4687). Approximately 0.73% of patients without medications and 0.74% with medications had SVF. Patients taking bisphosphonates (0.87), denosumab (0.77), and selective estrogen receptor modulators (0.88) had significantly lower standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) than patients not taking medications after the occurrence of primary fracture; meanwhile, patients taking parathyroid hormone medications had considerably higher SIRs than those not taking medications. The non‐SVF group (59.1%) had a significantly higher mean MPR than the SVF group (55.5%). Patients taking denosumab in the non‐SVF group (68.2%) had the highest mean MPR. The proportion of patients taking denosumab with an MPR of ≥80% in the non‐SVF group was significantly higher than that in the SVF group.

Conclusion

Patients taking medications were at a lower risk of developing SVF than those not taking medications. Although this study did not compare the medications' SVF prevention effects, patients taking denosumab had a 0.77 SIR of SVF in Japan. The effect of pharmacotherapy on SVF prevention might be affected by the MPR of each medication. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 390–397.
Prognostic value of micrometric substaging in pT1 bladder cancer patients treated with en‐bloc transurethral resection
Authors: Yanagisawa Takafumi , Sato Shun , Hayashida Yasushi , Okada Yohei , Matsukawa Akihiro , Iwatani Kosuke , Shimoda Masayuki , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Kimura Takahiro , Shariat Shahrokh F , Miki Jun
Published: March 2024

Aims

We aimed to assess the oncological impact of micrometric extent of invasion in patients with pT1 bladder cancer (BCa) who underwent en‐bloc resection for bladder tumour (ERBT).

Methods and results

We retrospectively analysed the records and specimens of 106 pT1 high‐grade BCa patients who underwent ERBT. The extent of invasion, such as depth from basal membrane, number of invasive foci, maximum width of invasive focus, muscularis mucosae invasion and infiltration pattern (pattern A: solid sheet‐like, nodular or nested growth, pattern B: trabecular, small cluster or single‐cell pattern) were evaluated by a single genitourinary pathologist. The end‐points were recurrence‐free (RFS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). Within a median follow‐up of 23 months, overall, 36 patients experienced recurrence and 13 patients experienced disease progression. The 2‐year PFS differed significantly depending on depth from basal membrane (< 1.3 mm: 94.8% versus ≧ 1.3 mm: 65.2%, P = 0.005), maximum width of invasive focus (< 4 mm: 91.7% versus ≧ 4 mm: 62.3%, P < 0.001), muscularis mucosae (MM) invasion (above MM = 96.1% versus into or beyond MM = 64.8%, P = 0.002) and infiltration pattern (pattern A: 100% versus pattern B: 83.3%, P = 0.037). In a multivariable analysis, MM invasion [hazard ratio (HR) = 4.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.25–16.5] and maximum width of invasive focus ≧ 4 mm (HR = 4.79, 95% CI = 1.25–16.5) were independent prognostic factors of progression.

Conclusions

En‐bloc resection facilitates the evaluation of pathologic variables that might be useful in predicting disease recurrence and progression. In particular, not only the MM invasion but also the maximum width of invasion focus, reflecting the invasive volume, appear to be reliable prognosticators for disease progression.
Disentangling how urbanisation influences moth diversity in grasslands
Authors: Sanetra Dennis , Berger Johanna , Hartlieb Margarita , Simons Nadja K. , Walther Genevieve , Blüthgen Nico , Staab Michael
Published: March 2024

Urban areas have profound impacts on local species diversity and composition through a set of intertwined changes in the environment. As the world is rapidly urbanising while simultaneously facing a biodiversity crisis, a better understanding of how urbanisation influences biodiversity is necessary.

To test if and how urbanisation influences moth diversity and whether urbanisation is acting directly or indirectly via urbanisation‐induced increased habitat isolation, smaller habitat area, higher light pollution and increased mowing intensity, we sampled moths with light trapping in 20 grasslands in the urban core of the city of Darmstadt (southwestern Germany) and 20 grasslands in the surrounding area.

Moth abundance and diversity decreased with increasing urbanisation. Smaller habitat area and high mowing intensity reduced moth abundance, while other environmental variables including isolation and light pollution had only indirect effects. High levels of urbanisation were associated with reduced moth abundance, which in turn drove declines in diversity. Urbanised sites favoured generalist species and differed in species composition compared to sites in the surrounding.

The results show that urbanisation is directly reducing moth abundance and diversity in cities. The negative effect of urbanisation is further attenuated by habitat fragmentation and high mowing intensity, which are both known drivers of biodiversity decline in urban areas and beyond.

While urbanisation itself is often irreversible, reducing mowing intensity and preserving larger grassland areas could facilitate moths and other taxa in and around cities.
Local floral abundance influences bumble bee occupancy more than urban‐agricultural landscape context
Authors: Nunes Laura A. , Tai Taylor , Zuckerberg Benjamin , Clare John D. , Jepsen Sarina , Strange James , Gratton Claudio
Published: March 2024

Loss of natural habitat due to increases in agricultural extent raises the question of whether human‐dominated landscape types can support biodiversity, particularly for declining insect pollinators. Compared to more rural agricultural landscapes, urban areas may confer benefits for bumble bee populations by providing stable and diverse floral resources. However, disentangling the effects of local‐ and landscape‐scale characteristics on bumble bee populations in human‐modified landscapes is challenging.

Here, we assessed bumble bee occupancy using a repeated transect sampling design conducted during the summers of 2019 and 2020 within the metropolitan area of Madison, WI, and the surrounding agricultural landscape. We fit hierarchical occupancy models to estimate the detection (p) and occupancy () probabilities relative to local habitat quality (floral abundance and floral richness) and landscape (agricultural‐urban gradient) features for eight bumble bee species. We hypothesised that bumble bees were more likely to occupy urban areas, serving as refugia, relative to agricultural sites.

We found that the detection probability of all bumble bee species was seasonal and influenced by maximum floral abundance at survey sites, independent of the surrounding land cover type. After accounting for species‐specific detection probabilities, the effect of urbanisation on bee occupancy was weak, and no species were less likely to occupy urban than rural agricultural areas.

Our findings suggest that bumble bee occupancy is associated with a ‘honeypot effect’ where local resource availability, in the form of higher floral abundance, is most important in limiting the occupancy of bumble bees across urban and agricultural landscapes.
Taxonomic and functional homogenization of butterfly communities along an urban gradient
Authors: Rivest Stephanie A. , Kharouba Heather M.
Published: March 2024

Urbanization is a major cause of global insect declines, yet some species can persist, and even thrive, in cities.

Research on butterflies frequently report reduced diversity in urban habitats compared to rural ones, but less is known about whether urbanization favours butterflies with specific functional traits. Further, few studies have evaluated whether urbanization leads to the biotic homogenization of butterfly communities, despite being frequently reported for other taxa.

Here, we investigate how butterfly community composition changes along an urban gradient by surveying 44 sites around Montréal, Quebec, Canada. We test the hypothesis that urban butterfly communities are homogenized at the taxonomic and functional levels.

We found clear differences in the structure of urban versus rural butterfly communities with urban areas favouring a few, highly abundant, non‐native species. These shifts were defined by losses of native species richness and abundance combined with increases in non‐native species abundance. For most of the butterfly community, species with longer flight periods were more common in urban areas. Finally, urban communities were homogenized at the taxonomic and functional levels as demonstrated by reductions in beta diversity and variation in several key functional traits (wingspan, larval diet breadth, oviposition style) in urban habitats compared to rural ones.

Overall, urban habitats in this region support less diverse butterfly communities that are homogenized. Since urban areas are growing worldwide, a better understanding of how biotic homogenization arises and what its consequences are will be key to guiding future conservation efforts.
Insect ecology and conservation in urban areas: An overview of knowledge and needs
Authors: Collins Catherine Matilda (Tilly) , Audusseau Helene , Hassall Chris , Keyghobadi Nusha , Sinu Palatty Allesh , Saunders Manu E.
Published: March 2024

Urban expansion across the globe profoundly impacts local biodiversity. The growing body of urban ecology research on animals has largely focused on mammals and birds, whereas knowledge of insect ecology and conservation in urban areas remains limited.

To anchor this Special Issue (SI), we have taken a broad approach to editorial and conducted a structured literature search to set the scene. We provide here an overview of existing literature reviews on urban insect ecology and conservation, indicate where the articles included in this SI contribute to developing our understanding and point to priority areas for further investigation.

Key themes in the growing literature (at individual, species, and/or community level) include the influence of habitat quality, quantity and land use type on insect diversity; the impacts of anthropogenic pollution (for instance, heat, noise, light and chemicals); habitat connectivity and changes in habitat structure and impacts of urban density on genetic diversity. Insect diversity and abundance broadly decline with urban density and loss of habitat. Beyond this, variation in responses of different taxa, or in different regions, and methodological limitations of individual studies make it challenging to identify general patterns.

Insect ecology and conservation research in urban environments should focus on applying ecological theory to understand variation in diversity patterns; investigating interactions between climate change and urban contexts; identifying impacts of novel environments on insect biodiversity; addressing methodological limitations and harmonising methodological approaches; and exploring the influence of social and historical factors on urban insect biodiversity. Insect conservation must also consider research into how best to communicate the value of urban insects to urban humans.
Schistocyte detection in artificial intelligence age
Authors: Zhang Zeng , Yang Su , Wang Xiuhong
Published: March 2024

Schistocytes are fragmented red blood cells produced as a result of mechanical damage to erythrocytes, usually due to microangiopathic thrombotic diseases or mechanical factors. The early laboratory detection of schistocytes has a critical impact on the timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and positive prognosis of diseases such as thrombocytopenic purpura and hemolytic uremic syndrome. Due to the rapid development of science and technology, laboratory hematology has also advanced. The accuracy and efficiency of tests performed by fully automated hematology analyzers and fully automated morphology analyzers have been considerably improved. In recent years, substantial improvements in computing power and machine learning (ML) algorithm development have dramatically extended the limits of the potential of autonomous machines. The rapid development of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) has led to the iteration and upgrade of automated detection of schistocytes. However, along with significantly facilitated operation processes, AI has brought challenges. This review summarizes the progress in laboratory schistocyte detection, the relationship between schistocytes and clinical diseases, and the progress of AI in the detection of schistocytes. In addition, current challenges and possible solutions are discussed, as well as the great potential of AI techniques for schistocyte testing in peripheral blood.
Effects of a disincentive policy on behavioral changes by South Korean medical institutions that do not submit official nursing grade data
Authors: Kim Yunmi , Lee Kyounga , Jung Minho
Published: March 2024

Aim

This study aimed to determine whether the policy of imposing deductions on medical institutions in South Korea led to increased submission of nursing grade data.

Background

In Korea, medical institutions are required to report data on their nursing workforce; however, many institutions did not comply with this regulation, making it difficult to gauge their level of nurse staffing. Therefore, in 2020, a nursing fee deduction policy was introduced that penalizes medical institutions financially for failing to submit nursing workforce data.

Methods

We prospectively collected data on the characteristics, nursing grade, and data submission status of 1,200 hospitals in South Korea from 2015 to 2021. We analyzed the submission rate of data related to nursing grades according to the characteristics of the medical institutions and evaluated the effect of policy change on data submission status using multiple logistic regression.

Findings

The submission rate of data increased from 50.2% in 2015 to 93.3% in 2021, and 39.3% of medical institutions that had not previously submitted data did so after the policy was introduced. The submission rate of medical institutions unaffected by the policy also increased after its introduction. Compared with 2015, the likelihood of medical institutions submitting data increased by 23.69 times in 2020 and 20.47 times in 2021.

Conclusion

The appropriate use of disincentive policies, such as financial deductions for medical institutions showing inappropriate behavior, was found to be effective in inducing desirable changes in the behavior of medical institutions.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Properly planned and implemented policies can contribute to improved quality of medical services and patient safety through effective administrative control.
Effects of clinical nursing pathway on the surgical site wound infection in patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Zhifeng , Li Yuanli , Peng Jing , Wang Hao , Shen Kai , Li Ya , Yu Keping
Published: March 2024

To explore the effect of clinical nursing pathway on wound infection in patients undergoing knee or hip replacement surgery. Computerised searches of PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang, China Biomedical Literature Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were conducted, from database inception to September 2023, on the randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of application of clinical nursing pathway to patients undergoing knee and hip arthroplasty. Literature was screened and evaluated by two researchers based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were extracted from the final included literature. RevMan 5.4 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 48 RCTs involving 4139 surgical patients were included, including 2072 and 2067 in the clinical nursing pathway and routine nursing groups, respectively. The results revealed, compared with routine nursing, the use of clinical nursing pathways was effective in reducing the rate of complications (OR = 0.17, 95%CI: 0.14–0.21, p < 0.001) and wound infections (OR = 0.29, 95%CI: 0.16–0.51, p < 0.001), shortens the hospital length of stay (MD = −4.11, 95%CI: −5.40 to −2.83, p < 0.001) and improves wound pain (MD = −1.34, 95%CI: −1.98 to −0.70, p < 0.001); it also improve patient satisfaction (OR = 7.13, 95%CI: 4.69–10.85, p < 0.001). The implementation of clinical nursing pathways in clinical care after knee or hip arthroplasty can effectively reduce the incidence of complications and wound infections, and also improve the wound pain, while also improving treatment satisfaction so that patients can be discharged from the hospital as soon as possible.
Impact of stapler versus manual closure techniques on pharyngocutaneous fistula development post‐total laryngectomy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ding Shuo , Zhang Yang , Guo Wei , Yin Gaofei , Huang Zhigang , Zhong Qi
Published: March 2024

Pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) is a major complication after total laryngectomy, with significant morbidity and mortality. Whether mechanical stapler closure of the pharynx reduces fistula rates compared to hand‐sewn techniques remains unclear. We conducted an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis to clarify this question. Five databases were systematically searched from inception through November 2023 for studies comparing stapler versus suture closure for fistula outcomes after laryngectomy. Odds ratios (OR) were pooled using random‐effects models and fixed‐effects models. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed. Risk of bias was appraised using NHLBI tools. Nine studies with 803 patients were included. Mechanical closure significantly reduced fistula incidence versus suture closure (OR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.34–0.95, p = 0.03). Subgroup analysis found that stapling's protective effect varied by patient age, country/region, linear stapler size and female percentage. Stapling reduced fistula odds by 80% in the Turkey subgroup (OR = 0.20, 95% CI 0.09–0.50) but showed no benefit in other regions. Patients <60 years showed an 84% fistula reduction with stapling (OR = 0.17, 95% CI 0.06–0.45), whereas older subgroups did not. Linear stapler size of 60 mm significantly reduced fistula occurrence while 75 mm did not. There was no evidence that low female percentage mitigated stapling benefits. Mechanical stapler closure after total laryngectomy meaningfully reduces the likelihood of postoperative PCF formation compared to hand‐sewn closure, especially for patients younger than 60 years old. The absolute risk reduction supports its utility to prevent this complication.
RETRACTED: Effects of high tibial osteotomy compared with unicondylar knee arthroplasty on the surgical site wound infection and pain in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Li Jingcheng , Zhang Yang , Chen Yonghua , Li Ying , Dai Baifa , Liu Ping
Published: March 2024

This study aims to comprehensively compare the effects of unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) and high tibial osteotomy (HTO) on wound infection and pain in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis. A computerized search was conducted in Embase, PubMed, Google Scholar, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Cochrane Library and Wanfang databases, from database inception to October 2023, for studies comparing UKA and HTO for medial knee osteoarthritis. Studies selection, data extraction and study quality evaluation were independently conducted by two researchers. Stata 17.0 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 10 studies involving 870 patients with medial knee osteoarthritis were included. It was found that the UKA group had significantly lower wound visual analogue scale scores compared to the HTO group (SMD = ‐0.53, 95%CI: −0.87 to −0.20, p < 0.001). The incidence of wound infection in the UKA group was higher than in the HTO group (OR = 1.92, 95%CI: 0.65–5.69, p = 0.240), and the incidence of complications was lower (OR = 0.89, 95%CI: 0.52–1.54, p = 0.684), though these differences were not statistically significant. This study indicates that UKA is effective in alleviating postoperative wound pain in medial knee osteoarthritis. However, the rates of postoperative wound infection and complications are comparable to those of HTO. Clinicians should consider factors such as patient age and disease severity in making individualized treatment decisions.