bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Different Treatments on Retinal Thickness Changes in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Review
Authors: Adibi Armin , Adibi Iman , Javidan Milad
Published: January 2025

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system, with varying clinical manifestations such as optic neuritis, sensory disturbances, and brainstem syndromes. Disease progression is monitored through methods like MRI scans, disability scales, and optical coherence tomography (OCT), which can detect retinal thinning, even in the absence of optic neuritis. MS progression involves neurodegeneration, particularly trans‐synaptic degeneration, which extends beyond the initial injury site. This review focuses on the impact of different MS treatments on retinal thickness as assessed by OCT.

Results

Injectable drugs, such as interferon beta and glatiramer acetate (GA), have a relatively modest impact on retinal atrophy. Oral medications like Fingolimod, Teriflunomide, and Dimethyl fumarate also have different impacts on retinal thickness. Fingolimod has been shown to protect against retinal thinning but may lead to macular edema. DMF‐treated patients had less ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer thinning than GA‐treated patients but more thinning compared to natalizumab‐treated patients and healthy controls. Teriflunomide's impact on retinal layers remains unexplored in human studies. Monoclonal antibodies, including Alemtuzumab, Rituximab, Ocrelizumab, and Natalizumab, had protective effects on retinal layer atrophy. Alemtuzumab‐treated patients showed significantly less atrophy compared to interferon‐ and GA‐treated patients. Rituximab initially increased atrophy rates in the first months but subsequently demonstrated potential neuroprotective effects. Ocrelizumab slowed the rate of inner nuclear layer thinning in progressive forms of the disease. Natalizumab is considered the most effective in reducing retinal layer atrophy, particularly the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer.

Conclusions

It's important to note that the effectiveness of these treatments may vary depending on MS subtype and individual factors. Future research should explore the long‐term effects of these treatments on retinal layers and their correlations with overall disease progression and disability in MS patients.
Multimodal treatment improves survival in patients with lung metastases from colorectal cancer: A network meta‐analysis
Authors: Chierici Andrea , Vinci Danilo , Liddo Guido , Granieri Stefano , Loi Mauro , Alifano Marco , Iannelli Antonio
Published: January 2025

Aim

The lungs represent the second most common site of colorectal cancer metastases. Although surgery is commonly considered the best treatment, many other invasive and noninvasive procedures and treatments have been adopted to improve patient survival and there is no clear evidence in the literature of which is the more effective. The aim of this work was to identify which treatment confers the best gain in overall survival for patients with pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer.

Method

A systematic review and network meta‐analysis of survival hazard ratio (HR) including 11 studies was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane protocol on PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library up to 31 December 2023. Surgery, image‐guided thermoablation, stereotactic body radiotherapy, chemotherapy and best standard care, associated or alone, were evaluated. Chemotherapy was adopted as the treatment reference to define survival HRs. Network metaregression was then performed considering patients with pulmonary only or multisite metastases from colorectal cancer.

Results

In patients with pulmonary metastases, the association of surgery, stereotactic body radiotherapy and chemotherapy is the best performing (HR 0.22), while the most effective components alone are image‐guided thermoablation (HR 0.53) and surgery (HR 0.57), although this was not significant. After metaregression, multimodal treatments still represent the strategy conferring the best survival gain. However, while surgery (incremental HR 0.26) has the most important role in patients with isolated pulmonary metastatic disease, chemotherapy (incremental HR 0.3) leads for patients with multimetastatic disease.

Conclusion

Multimodal treatment confers the best gain in overall survival in patients with pulmonary metastases from colorectal cancer. Combining multiple therapeutic strategies improves survival, with oligometastatic patients benefiting more from surgery and local therapies while multimetastatic patients mainly benefit from chemotherapy, although ablation and surgery can enhance outcomes when feasible.
Changes in human diet, and rice agriculture as a result of international agricultural policies, are impacting the persistence of Korean treefrogs
Authors: Borzée Amaël , Baek Minjae , Choi Hyunah , Seliger Bernhard
Published: January 2025

Species conservation is generally linked to a wide variety of threats, which might sometimes reflect changes in socioeconomic standards and policies. Here, we demonstrated how treefrog conservation is related to diet preferences, rice agriculture, and international rice trade policies. While rice has been a staple food for over 1000s of years in Korea, recent human‐related developments and changes in diet, strengthened by national and international agricultural policies, have resulted in a decrease in rice consumption in the nation. As a result, two treefrog species (Dryophytes suweonensis and Dryophytes flaviventris) restricted to rice paddies for breeding are severely declining due to habitat loss, and they are now under threat of extinction. The efforts of the government to boost rice consumption might support the conservation of the species, although the long‐term availability of breeding sites is uncertain, and ultimately, some of the agricultural wetlands should become protected and progressively transformed into functional natural wetlands.
Trade Network Dynamics and Alien Plant Pest Introductions: A Global Analysis
Authors: Nardi Davide , Rosace Maria Chiara , Cendoya Martina , Marini Lorenzo
Published: January 2025

Aim

Investigating the role of trade in elucidating the introductions of insect plant pests via specific pathways over the past two decades to inform future plant pest introduction risks.

Location

Global.

Methods

We analysed global data on the first findings of plant pests and the global trade network, assessing which network metrics explained the cumulative introductions per country. We compared in‐degree (i.e., the number of countries a focal country imports from) and out‐degree (i.e., the number of countries a focal country exports to) across different pathways and investigated intraregional trade saturation for each country within different continents. We explored the relationship between the risk of spreading based on the trade network structure and the temporal sequence of realised introductions.

Results

In‐degree was the major driver of the introduction of alien plant pests across all pathways. For several regions such as Europe and Asia, countries with extensive imports and regional trade connections serve as trade hubs connecting numerous countries belonging to the same geographical region. The saturation of the intra‐regional routes reflected the less restrictive regional trade agreements and played a pivotal role in the spread of exotic pests within the region. We found untapped potential for opening new trade routes in Africa and Oceania.

Conclusions

The study emphasises the potential increase in multiple introductions driven by a few key countries, warranting intensified surveillance efforts. Opening new commercial routes poses higher risks than increasing the total volume of trade from the same partners as it might open the dense international trade network to a new pool of potential pests. Incorporating high‐resolution trade data and tracking data (i.e., from entry to final destination) is crucial and can enhance risk mapping precision to reduce future alien plant pest introductions.
Novel function of Hox13 in regulating outgrowth of the newt hindlimb bud through interaction with Fgf10 and Tbx4
Authors: Tozawa Sayo , Matsubara Haruka , Minamitani Fumina , Kamei Yasuhiro , Saida Misako , Asao Momoko , Suzuki Ken‐ichi T. , Matsunami Masatoshi , Shigenobu Shuji , Hayashi Toshinori , Abe Gembu , Takeuchi Takashi
Published: January 2025

5′Hox genes regulate pattern formation along the axes of the limb. Previously, we showed that Hoxa13/Hoxd13 double‐mutant newts lacked all digits of the forelimbs during development and regeneration, showing that newt Hox13 is necessary for digit formation in development and regeneration. In addition, we found another unique phenotype. Some of the Hox13 crispant newts showed hindlimb defects, in which whole or almost whole hindlimbs were lost, suggesting a novel function of Hox13 in limb development. Using germline mutants, we showed that mutation in Hox13 led to hindlimb defects. The limb buds of Hox13 crispants formed, however, did not show outgrowth. Expression of Fgf10 and Tbx4, which are involved in limb outgrowth, decreased in the hindlimb buds of Hox13 crispants. In addition, hindlimb defects were observed in both Fgf10 and Tbx4 crispant newts. Finally, Fgf10 and Tbx4 interacted with Hox13 genetically. Our results revealed a novel function of Hox13 in regulating the outgrowth of the newt hindlimb bud through interaction with Fgf10 and Tbx4.
Analysing regional and sectoral productivity changes in the Indian economy
Authors: Kaur Puneet Prakash , Kiran Ravi
Published: January 2025

Motivation

Numerous domestic and international studies have shown that India's business environment has shortcomings that have hindered and distorted investment, reducing growth and job creation. There is geographical variation in the distribution of sectoral and regional production in India. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the role geography plays in evaluating the effects of shifts in aggregate and disaggregate productivity.

Purpose

This research attempts to build a unified framework to consider regional and sectoral changes as heterogeneous factors affecting productivity in India. It explores whether the fundamental changes in productivity are locational or sectoral.

Approach and Methods

This article focuses on three aspects: (1) It identifies variables based on previous literature. The aggregate industry analysis for both Punjab and India is based on independent variables. The study uses the 2SLS‐estimator using STATA in a single‐step endogeneity problem. (2) For disaggregate or sectoral analysis, it identifies four industries across India and Punjab. We confine our analysis to these four industries since the present study is done at both aggregate and disaggregate levels covering national and state level analysis. (3) It sets out separate interpretations for the aggregate analysis, setting it apart from disaggregate analysis.

Findings

For aggregate industry analysis, the results for Indian and Punjab industry adhere to Verdoorn's law which states that in the long run productivity generally grows proportionally to the square root of output. In that value‐added growth is a major factor affecting total factor productivity for Indian firms across both regions. The Punjab group shows non‐linearity between productivity and concentration. Concentration leads to some increase in productivity but this then declines.

Policy Implications

Policy‐makers should promote the establishment of more medium‐sized firms to enhance productivity across all regions in India.

The skilled‐labour ratio emerged as significant for the Punjab group, though this is because the state has a higher proportion of small‐scale industries which are more labour intensive than the overall India group. As such, specific policies should be aimed at the manufacturing sector at state level to enhance productivity, taking into consideration unique features of each group.

Policy‐makers should address the inefficiency of the industrial policy overseen by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
Evaluation of Information Provided by ChatGPT Versions on Traumatic Dental Injuries for Dental Students and Professionals
Authors: Öztürk Zeynep , Bal Cenkhan , Çelikkaya Beyza Nur
Published: January 2025

Background/Aim

The use of AI‐driven chatbots for accessing medical information is increasingly popular among educators and students. This study aims to assess two different ChatGPT models—ChatGPT 3.5 and ChatGPT 4.0—regarding their responses to queries about traumatic dental injuries, specifically for dental students and professionals.

Material and Methods

A total of 40 questions were prepared, divided equally between those concerning definitions and diagnosis and those on treatment and follow‐up. The responses from both ChatGPT versions were evaluated on several criteria: quality, reliability, similarity, and readability. These evaluations were conducted using the Global Quality Scale (GQS), the Reliability Scoring System (adapted DISCERN), the Flesch Reading Ease Score (FRES), the Flesch–Kincaid Reading Grade Level (FKRGL), and the Similarity Index. Normality was checked with the Shapiro–Wilk test, and variance homogeneity was assessed using the Levene test.

Results

The analysis revealed that ChatGPT 3.5 provided more original responses compared to ChatGPT 4.0. According to FRES scores, both versions were challenging to read, with ChatGPT 3.5 having a higher FRES score (39.732 ± 9.713) than ChatGPT 4.0 (34.813 ± 9.356), indicating relatively better readability. There were no significant differences between the ChatGPT versions regarding GQS, DISCERN, and FKRGL scores. However, in the definition and diagnosis section, ChatGPT 4.0 had a statistically higher quality score than ChatGPT 3.5. In contrast, ChatGPT 3.5 provided more original answers in the treatment and follow‐up section. For ChatGPT 4.0, the readability and similarity rates for the definition and diagnosis section were higher than those for the treatment and follow‐up section. No significant differences were observed between ChatGPT 3.5's DISCERN, FRES, FKRGL, and similarity index measurements by topic.

Conclusions

Both ChatGPT versions offer high‐quality and original information, though they present challenges in readability and reliability. They are valuable resources for dental students and professionals but should be used in conjunction with additional sources of information for a comprehensive understanding.
Evaluation of repellent effects of plant‐based essential oils, red dye, and kaolin on Asian citrus psyllid
Authors: Exilien Romain , Qureshi Jawwad A. , Martini Xavier
Published: January 2025

The Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), vector of the pathogen causing Huanglongbing disease, is currently the most devastating pest of citrus. Despite intensive control efforts, the disease continues to spread. Diaphorina citri typically relies on tactile, visual, and odor cues for host selection. By combining an irritant (kaolin clay), a visual masking (red or blue dye), and true odor repellents, we aim to repel D. citri from citrus trees. In laboratory conditions, we conducted closed‐cage bioassays to compare D. citri response to the following treatment combinations: (1) kaolin + food colorants (blue or red); (2) kaolin + odor repellents (thyme, lavender, fir, and coriander oil), and (3) kaolin + red food colorant + thyme oil. The red kaolin treatment exerted a greater deterrent effect on D. citri adults than the blue and uncolored kaolin treatments. We also observed an additive effect in terms of D. citri repellency with the combination of thyme oil and kaolin and, to a lesser extent, coriander oil and kaolin. However, the combination of lavender or fir oils and kaolin did not increase repellency against ACP as compared with kaolin alone. Thyme oil + red kaolin oil combinations induced similar ACP repellency to that of thyme oil + uncolored kaolin. Finally, fecundity was significantly reduced by the kaolin‐based treatments compared to the thyme oil treatment and control plants. Our findings suggested the possible use of red kaolin or the combination of thyme and kaolin as a means of reducing D. citri infestation in citrus.
Characterising a New Sheep Model of Parkinson's Disease Using Unilateral Intracerebral Injection of 6‐Hydroxydopamine Into the Substantia Nigra
Authors: Banstola Ashik , Vautrelle Nicolas , Bergin David , Mohammad Younus , Gandhi Kushan , Rizwan Shakila , Reynolds John N. J.
Published: January 2025

New therapeutic agents developed for treating neurological disorders are often tested successfully on rodents. Testing in an appropriate large animal model where there is longer lifespan and comparable brain size to humans should improve translational success and is frequently expected by regulatory bodies. In this project, we aimed to establish a novel sheep model of Parkinson's disease as a large‐brained experimental model for translational research. Our objective was to create a sheep model of Parkinson's disease by unilaterally infusing the neurotoxin 6‐hydroxydopamine into the substantia nigra pars compacta. This approach, previously used to induce parkinsonism in rat and non‐human primate models, causes dopaminergic imbalance and induces rotational behaviour in quadrupeds challenged with dopaminergic receptor agonists. In the present sheep study, the mixed dopamine receptor agonist apomorphine, 0.25 mg/kg, and dopamine D2 agonist ropinirole, 0.16 mg/kg, were used to induce rotational behaviour and confirm dopamine depletion. Behavioural signs were then measured and characterised in the field using automated movement tracking with simultaneous video recordings. Post‐mortem, the extent of the 6‐hydroxydopamine lesions was evaluated through tyrosine hydroxylase immunohistochemistry and quantifying levels of catecholamines (dopamine, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid and homovanilic acid) quantified using high‐performance liquid chromatography. Our new sheep model of Parkinson's disease using 6‐hydroxydopamine is safe and offers a number of regulatory, ethical and financial advantages over non‐human primate 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine models. It provides a platform to evaluate novel antiparkinsonian agents and medical devices in a large brain with the promise of greater success for translation into clinical application.
Influence of Unspecific Visual–Perceptual–Cognitive Task Constraints on Jump Ability and Reactive Strength in Federated Soccer Players
Authors: Vivar Guillermo Mateos , Quevedo Lluïsa , Sillero‐Quintana Manuel
Published: January 2025

Soccer players must react quickly and execute complex mental processes to adapt to competitive scenarios while maintaining peak physical performance. Perceptual–cognitive training methods integrate reaction tasks using nonspecific visual stimuli with game‐like motor actions, but the impact on explosive strength responses is unclear. This study investigates the effect of nonspecific visual stimuli with varying perceptual–cognitive constraints on jump performance, including countermovement jump height, reactive strength index modified, action time, and reaction time. A total of 299 soccer players were randomly assigned to four groups to assess the impact of different perceptual–cognitive tasks on countermovement jump performance. The results showed a significant reduction in jump height in all groups, with the most pronounced effect in the divided/attention simple reaction time task group (Δ height = −4.74 cm; p < 0.001). Action time was significantly shorter in all experimental jumps compared with controls (p < 0.001), and the reactive strength index modified increased across perceptual–cognitive tasks (p < 0.001) except in the divided/attention simple reaction time (p = 0.593). Reaction time increased in all groups, with the highest in the complex elective reaction time task (487.32 ± 153.75 ms; p < 0.001). These findings suggest that nonspecific visual stimuli negatively affect countermovement jump performance, highlighting the importance of analyzing sport‐specific perceptual–cognitive demands in the development of efficient training programs.
Distinct Behavioural and Brain Response Profiles Between Arithmetic Word Problem Solving and Sentence Comprehension in Third and Fourth Graders
Authors: Ng Chan‐Tat , Chen Xin‐Yu , Chang Ting‐Ting
Published: January 2025

Word problems are essential for math learning and education, bridging numerical knowledge with real‐world applications. Despite their importance, the neural mechanisms underlying word problem solving, especially in children, remain poorly understood. Here, we examine children's cognitive and brain response profiles for arithmetic word problems (AWPs), which involve one‐step mathematical operations, and compare them with nonarithmetic word problems (NWPs), structured as parallel narratives without numerical operations. Behavioural results suggested that AWP performance was associated with both reading comprehension and arithmetic fluency, whereas NWP performance correlated only with reading comprehension. Neuroimaging results revealed distinct neural substrates: AWP solving primarily activated the anterior insula, middle frontal gyrus and intraparietal sulcus, whereas NWP solving engaged in the inferior frontal gyrus, middle temporal gyrus and angular gyrus. Critically, we observed a developmental shift: Children showed heightened prefrontal activation during AWP solving, contrasting with increased posterior parietal engagement in adults. Moreover, although adults demonstrated brain–behaviour associations, with slower AWP solving linked to stronger parietal activation, this relationship was absent in children. Taken together, these findings suggest that AWP solving recruits specialized arithmetic brain circuits that undergo a frontal‐to‐parietal trajectory. Our study thus provides a neurological basis for AWP solving in children, emphasizing the crucial role of the fronto‐insular‐parietal network. These insights into brain‐based contributions to developmental differences may guide the development of targeted remediation strategies and educational interventions tailored to individual learning needs.
Predicting the Irrelevant: Neural Effects of Distractor Predictability Depend on Load
Authors: Lui Troby Ka‐Yan , Obleser Jonas , Wöstmann Malte
Published: January 2025

Distraction is ubiquitous in human environments. Distracting input is often predictable, but we do not understand when or how humans can exploit this predictability. Here, we ask whether predictable distractors are able to reduce uncertainty in updating the internal predictive model. We show that utilising a predictable distractor identity is not fully automatic but in part depends on available resources. In an auditory spatial n‐back task, listeners (n = 33) attended to spoken numbers presented to one ear and detected repeating items. Distracting numbers presented to the other ear either followed a predictable (i.e., repetitive) sequence or were unpredictable. We used electroencephalography (EEG) to uncover neural responses to predictable versus unpredictable auditory distractors, as well as their dependence on perceptual and cognitive load. Neurally, pairs of targets and unpredictable distractors induced a sign‐reversed lateralisation of pre‐stimulus alpha oscillations (~10 Hz) and larger amplitude of the stimulus‐evoked P2 event‐related potential component. Under low versus high memory load, distractor predictability increased the magnitude of the frontal negativity component. Behaviourally, predictable distractors under low task demands (i.e., good signal‐to‐noise ratio and low memory load) made participants adopt a less biased response strategy. We conclude that predictable distractors decrease uncertainty and reduce the need for updating the internal predictive model. In turn, unpredictable distractors might mislead proactive spatial attention orientation, elicit larger neural responses and put higher demand on memory.
The Vanishing Vaquita: A Call for Definitive Action
Authors: del Monte‐Luna Pablo , Lluch‐Cota Salvador E. , Trites Andrew W. , Cisneros‐Montemayor Andrés , Arreguín‐Sánchez Francisco , Alcántara‐Razo Edgar
Published: January 2025

The world's smallest porpoise—the vaquita (Phocoena sinus)—is on the brink of extinction. Endemic to the upper Gulf of California, it has dwindled to fewer than 19 individuals in 2023. The primary source of mortality is drowning in gillnets set for totoaba (a giant croaker fish). Our review of the past 50 years of efforts to simultaneously attain conservation goals for the vaquita and economic and social goals for the fisheries concludes that they have consistently failed to meet the lowest expectations of any stakeholders. The time has therefore come to recognise that the only solution to this problem is to make an immediate and definitive decision: either preserve the vaquita or bolster sustainable fishing in the upper Gulf—and accept the associated social, economic, and political costs of either choice.
Half a Century of Temperate Non‐Forest Vegetation Changes: No Net Loss in Species Richness, but Considerable Shifts in Taxonomic and Functional Composition
Authors: Klinkovská Klára , Sperandii Marta Gaia , Knollová Ilona , Danihelka Jiří , Hájek Michal , Hájková Petra , Hroudová Zdenka , Jiroušek Martin , Lepš Jan , Navrátilová Jana , Peterka Tomáš , Petřík Petr , Prach Karel , Řehounková Klára , Rohel Jaroslav , Sobotka Vojtěch , Vávra Michal , Bruelheide Helge , Chytrý Milan
Published: January 2025

In recent decades, global change and local anthropogenic pressures have severely affected natural ecosystems and their biodiversity. Although disentangling the effects of these factors is difficult, they are reflected in changes in the functional composition of plant communities. We present a comprehensive, large‐scale analysis of long‐term changes in plant communities of various non‐forest habitat types in the Czech Republic based on 1154 vegetation‐plot time series from 53 resurvey studies comprising 3909 vegetation‐plot records. We focused not only on taxonomic diversity but also on the functional characteristics of communities. Species richness of most habitat types increased over time, and taxonomic and functional community composition shifted significantly. Habitat specialists and threatened species became less represented in plant communities, indicating a decline in habitat quality. The spread of trees, shrubs, tall herbaceous plants, strong competitors, and nutrient‐demanding species in all non‐forest habitats, coupled with the decline of light‐demanding species, suggests an effect of eutrophication and natural succession following the abandonment of traditional management. Moreover, we identified specific trends in certain habitats. In wetlands, springs, and mires, moisture‐demanding species decreased, probably due to drainage, river regulations, and increasing drought resulting from climate change. Dry grasslands, ruderal, weed, sand, and shallow‐soil vegetation became more mesic, and successional processes were most pronounced in these communities, suggesting a stronger effect of abandonment of traditional management and eutrophication. In alpine and subalpine vegetation, meadows and mesic pastures, and heathlands, insect‐pollinated species declined, and the proportion of grasses increased. Overall, these functional changes provide deep insights into the underlying drivers and help conservationists take appropriate countermeasures.
Biotic and Abiotic Drivers of Ecosystem Temporal Stability in Herbaceous Wetlands in China
Authors: Wang Guodong , Hu Nanlin , Hautier Yann , Middleton Beth , Wang Ming , Zhao Meiling , Meng Jingci , Ma Zijun , Liu Bo , Liu Yanjie , Jiang Ming
Published: January 2025

Maintaining the stability of ecosystems is critical for supporting essential ecosystem services over time. However, our understanding of the contribution of the diverse biotic and abiotic factors to this stability in wetlands remains limited. Here, we combined data from a field vegetation survey of 725 herbaceous wetland sites in China with remote sensing information from the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) from 2010 to 2020 to explore the contribution of biotic and abiotic factors to the temporal stability of primary productivity. We found that plant species richness directly contributed to stability on a national scale, but that this contribution differed among climate zones, hydrological regimes, and vegetation types. In addition, many abiotic factors, including soil properties, geographical location, and climate also contributed to stability. Piecewise structural equation modeling identified that soil properties, including soil pH, total nitrogen, and soil organic carbon, emerged as primary factors modulating ecosystem stability, both directly and indirectly by affecting species richness and vegetation type. Higher species richness and soil organic carbon were related to higher ecosystem stability in peatlands but less so in coastal and inland marshes. These findings enhance our ability to forecast how wetland ecosystems may respond to future environmental changes and biodiversity loss and can inform policy decisions related to ecosystem stability.
Impact of Long Well Screens on Monitoring of the Freshwater‐Saltwater Transition Zone
Authors: Croteau Frédérik , Coulon Cécile , Molson John , Lemieux Jean‐Michel
Published: January 2025

Deep monitoring wells with long screens crossing the transition zone between freshwater and saltwater are often used in coastal areas to characterize fresh groundwater resources and the depth of saline groundwater. However, past studies have demonstrated that long‐screen wells can lead to biased observations of the transition zone, since vertical flow within the borehole can modify the shape and elevation of the transition zone in and around the borehole compared to undisturbed conditions without a well. Here, field observations and variable‐density numerical flow simulations are used to evaluate, under natural flow conditions, how the installation of long‐screen wells can provide time‐varying biased observations of the freshwater‐saltwater transition zone, and how various aquifer and well parameters affect the magnitude of these biases. Results show that long‐screen wells can lead to a more dispersed interface, an upward displacement of the transition zone of between 5 and 10 m, and a salinity decrease in the saltwater portion of the well on the order of 10 to 15 g/L. The perturbations take up to 5 years to fully develop and stabilize. The degree of displacement depends on the screen diameter, screen length, aquifer anisotropy, and hydraulic conductivity, whereas the displacement is independent of the distance of the well from the coast. This analysis provides insight into which well and aquifer characteristics increase the risk of obtaining biased observations in long‐screen wells, and provides orders of magnitude for these biases.
Development of the Migraine‐Related Stigma (MiRS) Questionnaire: Results of the OVERCOME (US) Study
Authors: Seng Elizabeth K. , Muenzel E. Jolanda , Shapiro Robert E. , Buse Dawn C. , Reed Michael L. , Zagar Anthony J. , Ashina Sait , Hutchinson Susan , Nicholson Robert A. , Lipton Richard B.
Published: January 2025

Background

Stigma is emerging as an important social contributor to migraine‐related disability and other outcomes. Currently, there are no published validated measures of migraine‐specific measures of stigma.

Objectives

This secondary post hoc analysis of a cross‐sectional cohort study aimed to develop a questionnaire to evaluate migraine‐related stigma.

Methods

Based on focus group discussions among persons with migraine and literature review, a panel of migraine experts iteratively developed 12 candidate items for the migraine‐related stigma (MiRS) questionnaire, which aims to measure if and how people living with migraine perceive they are viewed in a stigmatizing manner by others. The United States ObserVational survey of the Epidemiology tReatment and Care Of MigrainE (OVERCOME) study identified people with active migraine within a demographically representative United States (US) adult sample and administered the novel MiRS questionnaire in addition to questionnaires assessing sociodemographics, monthly headache days, and migraine disability score (Migraine Disability Assessment) among other data. Exploratory factor analysis was then utilized to evaluate the structure of the MiRS items and determine the Cronbach's alpha described internal consistency of the factors.

Results

This exploratory factor analysis was a secondary post hoc analysis of a cross‐sectional cohort study derived from the OVERCOME population‐based web survey, which was conducted in a United States sample of 61,932 adults with migraine. The mean (standard deviation) age was 41.7 (14.8) years, 74.5% (n = 46,122) were female, and 70.3% (n = 43,564) identified as White. Two factors were identified: MiRS—external perception of Secondary Gain (eigenvalue = 21.5, percentage of total variance = 88.9%) and MiRS—external perception of Minimizing Burden of migraine (eigenvalue = 2.7, percentage of total variance = 11.1%). The two factors were correlated (r = 0.66) and a non‐orthogonal varimax rotation showed that eight items loaded onto the MiRS—Secondary Gain factor, and four items loaded onto the MiRS—Minimizing Burden factor.

Conclusion

This population‐based study of >60,000 people with migraine allowed the development and validation of the first migraine‐specific measure of perceived external stigma for people with migraine. This study demonstrated that MiRS consists of two internally consistent subscales: Secondary Gain and Minimizing Burden. This may be a useful tool for quantifying perceived migraine‐related stigma to understand determinants of migraine‐related stigma and test interventions to reduce perceived migraine‐related stigma.
A randomized sequential cross‐over trial evaluating five purportedly ICP‐lowering drugs in idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Authors: Mitchell James L. , Lyons Hannah S. , Walker Jessica K. , Yiangou Andreas , Thaller Mark , Grech Olivia , Alimajstorovic Zerin , Tsermoulas Georgios , Brock Kristian , Mollan Susan P. , Sinclair Alexandra J.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To gain initial insight into the efficacy to lower intracranial pressure (ICP), side effects, and effects on cognition of five drugs commonly used to treat idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH).

Background

Limited clinical data exist for the treatment for IIH. Impaired cognition is recognized in IIH and can be exacerbated by medications.

Methods

This human experimental medicine study was a secondary analysis that focused on an unblinded randomized, sequential, cross‐over extension of a previously completed randomized controlled trial. This study evaluated females with active IIH, recruited from University Hospital Birmingham, UK. Participants were treated, in randomized order, for 2 weeks with acetazolamide, amiloride, furosemide, spironolactone, and topiramate; assessment was at baseline and 2 weeks with a minimum 1‐week drug washout between drugs. The primary outcome was change in ICP at 2 weeks post‐drug administration. The cognitive evaluation was an exploratory study of the trial. ICP was recorded with telemetric, intraparenchymal ICP monitors (Raumedic, Hembrechts, Germany). Adverse events were recorded, and cognition was assessed utilizing the National Institutes of Health Toolbox Cognitive Battery.

Results

Fourteen participants were recruited and evaluated by intention‐to‐treat analysis. Mean (standard deviation) body mass index was 37.3 (7.0) kg/m2 and ICP was 33.2 (7.1) cm cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at baseline. ICP fell with four drugs (mean [standard error (SE)]), acetazolamide −3.3 (1.0) mmHg, p = 0.001, furosemide −3.0 (0.9) mmHg, p = 0.001, spironolactone −2.7 (0.9) mmHg, p = 0.003, and topiramate −2.3 (0.9) mmHg, p = 0.010. There was no significant difference between drugs. Side effects were common with acetazolamide (100%, 11/11) and topiramate (93%, 13/14). Baseline cognitive performance was impaired, T‐score (mean [SE]) 37.2 (2.6). After treatment, there was a further significant reduction in the fluid cognition domain (ability to process and integrate) with acetazolamide (mean T‐score [SE]), −5.0 (2.6), p = 0.057 and topiramate −4.1 (2.0), p = 0.061.

Conclusions

Acetazolamide, furosemide, spironolactone, and topiramate marginally reduced ICP. While their effects were not significant, this study was not powered to detect a difference between drugs. Participants reported significant side effects with acetazolamide and topiramate including cognitive decline. Cognitive measures were impaired by acetazolamide and topiramate. Therapeutics with greater efficacy and a favorable side effect profile are an unmet need in the treatment of IIH.
A programmatic assessment of dolutegravir adverse events and discontinuations in Uganda
Authors: Odongpiny Eva Agnes Laker , Nicol Melanie , Katana Elizabeth , Owori Joseph , Buzibye Allan , Sedan Kay , Kesby Mike , Holden Matthew , Owarwo Noela , Meya David , Castelnuovo Barbara , Sloan Derek J. , Sekaggya Christine
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Dolutegravir is now extensively used in sub‐Saharan Africa as a preferred component of antiretroviral therapy (ART). There is a paucity of large studies using routinely collected data from African people living with HIV on dolutegravir‐based regimens to inform HIV programmes. We reviewed data in a large programme clinic of people living with HIV on dolutegravir to determine the real‐world safety and tolerability of dolutegravir and to describe drivers of treatment discontinuation.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective dynamic cohort analysis of people living with HIV who started on or switched to dolutegravir‐based ART at the Infectious Diseases Institute in Kampala, Uganda, between February 2017 and December 2020. Types of adverse events (AEs) were classified according to the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities. Incident rates for AEs and treatment discontinuation were determined using Cox proportional hazard methods.

Results

Of 4529 people living with HIV started on or switched to dolutegravir, 2094 (45.9%) were female, and the median age was 49 years (interquartile range [IQR] 41–56). During 8907.93 person‐years (PY) of follow‐up, 1069 (23.6%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 22.4–24.8) people living with HIV had an AE, at a rate of 10.43 per 1000 PY (95% CI 9.77–11.14). Neuropsychiatric, gastrointestinal, and endocrine AEs were most common. The main AEs driving dolutegravir discontinuation were hyperglycaemia (140/356; 39.3%) and erectile dysfunction (19/356; 5.3%). Only 1.2% (4/356) of the dolutegravir discontinuations were because of neuropsychiatric AEs. Being female (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.35; 95% CI 1.02–1.78) and previous use of stavudine (aHR 1.46; 95% CI 1.04–2.05) were the main predictors of neuropsychiatric AEs. Risk factors for hyperglycaemia included being overweight (aHR 1.66; 95% CI 1.11–2.47) or obese (aHR 1.84; 95% CI 1.12–3.05), having hypertension (aHR 1.92; 95% CI 1.35–2.73), having diabetes mellitus (aHR 12.6; 95% CI 8.34–19.1), and taking previous ART containing zidovudine (aHR 1.76; 95% CI 1.19–2.59) or stavudine (aHR 1.68; 95% CI 1.15–2.44). These risk factors for hyperglycaemia were also the main drivers of dolutegravir discontinuation.

Conclusion

AEs were common in this African cohort, and dolutegravir discontinuation was driven by hyperglycaemia and erectile dysfunction. Previous use of older ART with known mitochondrial toxicity was associated with neuropsychiatric AEs and hyperglycaemia. African countries used these drugs for longer periods, and this may contribute to this risk.
Online Atmospherics: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Suraj J. , Joseph Ajay
Published: January 2025

In the digital era, online atmospherics have emerged as a pivotal factor influencing consumer behavior and engagement in online platforms. Online atmospherics refers to the strategically designed elements of a web environment aimed at stimulating the senses to create positive user experiences and enhance consumer responses. Given the dynamic nature of consumer interactions and technological advancements in digital commerce, the need to study online atmospherics is ever evolving, demanding continuous exploration to adapt and optimize the online shopping experience. A comprehensive review was conducted on 80 articles published between 2000 and 2023, utilizing the integrated ADO–TCM framework. Through the antecedents, decisions, and outcomes (ADO) framework, this study reveals what we know about online atmospherics. The theories, contexts, and methods (TCM) framework reveal how we know about online atmospherics. Moreover, this study aims to identify significant gaps in the current literature and recommend specific future research avenues. This systematic literature review (SLR) serves as a crucial resource for practitioners by providing a comprehensive analysis of effective online atmospherics, aiding in the development of more engaging digital shopping experiences. Simultaneously, it offers scholars a consolidated foundation, facilitating further exploration and innovation in the domain of online atmospherics in emerging channels.
Resilient responses to the massive influx of forced migrants: A case study of medium‐sized cities in Poland
Authors: Pachocka Marta , Lewandowski Arkadiusz , Nowosielski Michał , Popławska Joanna Zuzanna , Wach Dominik
Published: January 2025

The full‐scale aggression against Ukraine on 24 February 2022 caused an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. In Poland, most forced migrants settled in urban areas, turning cities into unique proving grounds for humanitarian assistance and testing their resilience capabilities. We explore this phenomenon using the case study of three medium‐sized cities with particular attention to the roles of and relationships between local actors (local governments, civil society, and local businesses and universities). Our analysis of urban responses is grounded in theories of social resilience and multi‐level governance (MLG). We argue that there are similarities in how medium‐sized cities responded to the challenges posed by a massive refugee influx. We also contend that their responses were different from those of large cities as a result of their limited experience in receiving migrants, their less diverse and specialised actor base, and the more limited capitals at their disposal. The article is based on primary (30 semi‐structured IDIs and participant observation) and secondary data.
Association Between Patient Safety Culture and Missed Nursing Care in Healthcare Settings: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Labrague Leodoro J. , Cayaban Arcalyd Rose
Published: January 2025

Aim

To appraise and synthesise existing research on the relationship between patient safety culture and missed nursing care.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

Peer‐reviewed articles published from 2010 onwards were searched from five databases (CINAHL, ProQuest, PubMed, ScienceDirect and Web of Science). A total of nine studies were identified. Among these, seven studies with a combined sample size of 1661 participants were included in the meta‐analysis.

Results

The meta‐analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between overall patient safety culture and missed nursing care, with a pooled correlation coefficient of −0.205 (95% CI: −0.251 to −0.158) (p < 0.001). Heterogeneity was low to moderate (I2 = 13.18%, 95% CI: 0.00 to 78.60), and publication bias tests indicated no significant bias (Egger's test p = 0.0603; Begg's test p = 0.3476).

Conclusion

The findings underscore a significant inverse relationship between patient safety culture and missed nursing care, highlighting the specific predictive roles of management support, organisational learning and unit‐level safety culture. Enhancing patient safety culture within healthcare organisations can be a strategic approach to mitigate missed nursing care.

Impact

Nursing leaders and administrators should prioritise fostering a safety‐oriented culture through targeted interventions, continuous education and supportive policies to improve patient care outcomes.

Reporting Method

Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Research Progress on Quality Characteristics of Yoghurt and Its Fermentation Enhancement Technology: A Review
Authors: Zhang Shengqi , Niu Shizhen , Wu Minquan , Li Hongliang , Yang Chang , Liu Chunyang , Dai Chunhua , He Ronghai , Xu Yujia
Published: January 2025

Yoghurt is a popular nutrient‐rich food consumed worldwide. It is a functional food, and thus, has many health benefits. As a consequence, its consumer‐market is gradually expanding. However, the production of yoghurt is associated with several problems such as post‐acidification, heat treatment, flavor, cost and technical barriers. To overcome such challenges, various fortification approaches such as the addition of probiotics and prebiotics (as biofortification methods), additives and nutrients (as chemical fortification methods) have been applied. Besides, ultrasound‐assisted or high‐pressure homogenization‐assisted fermentation have been utilized to improve the rheological, textural, flavor and nutritional attributes of yoghurt. This review summarizes the current production processes of yoghurt and their shortcomings, with an emphasis on innovative fermentation fortification techniques.
Endogenous Ethanol Production in the Human Alimentary Tract: A Literature Review
Authors: Stamation Renee
Published: January 2025

Endogenous ethanol production, or auto‐brewery syndrome (ABS), is a rare condition of the human alimentary canal that results in intoxication without alcohol consumption. Despite its clinical significance, ABS remains largely undiagnosed because of a lack of awareness among clinicians. Published cases have reported extensive biopsychosocial comorbidities accompanying delayed diagnosis and incomplete management; these include social rejection and family separation, court‐ordered alcohol rehabilitation and psychiatric admission, legal and employment ramifications, and deteriorating mental health and suicidality. In this mini review, we aim to educate and enlighten clinicians by discussing literature findings pertaining to the pathophysiological mechanisms of gut dysbiosis due to overgrowth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, E. coli and Klebsiella, impaired intestinal barrier function, and dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. Furthermore, we discuss recently discovered associations with sleep quality and mood disorders and explore the medical sequelae of metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis. Drawing on these data, we propose protocols for initial care in the emergency room, subsequent critical care, diagnostic testing with glucose challenge testing, and definitive microbiological testing during the acute phase of illness. We also present an empirical treatment outline while awaiting confirmation of causative organisms and sensitivities.