bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Shallow-Buried Bias Tunnel Unloading on the Longitudinal Displacement of the Underlying Tunnel
Authors: Zhang Junru , Huang Yinhua , Yan Zhijian , Liu Junbo , Sun Wenhao
Published: January 2025

With the continuous development of traffic tunnels, the construction of new tunnels that intersect with existing ones has become increasingly common. The situation of tunnel bias is inevitably encountered and has a more adverse impact on the existing tunnels. This paper proposes a semianalytical method for calculating the displacement of a tunnel caused by the construction of a shallow-buried bias tunnel overlying it. In this method, the unloading load of the tunnel is orthogonally decomposed along the ground. Utilizing the Mindlin solution and mechanical stress formulas, this paper calculates the additional stress imposed on the existing tunnel by the excavation and unloading of the new tunnel, considering the ground inclination angle φ0. This paper models the existing tunnel as an Euler–Bernoulli beam resting on a Winkler foundation to calculate the tunnel displacement. Compared with measured data from the project site, this method can better predict the uplift displacement of the existing tunnel. Furthermore, this paper investigates the influences of various factors, such as the distance between the upper and lower tunnels, the equivalent stiffness of the lower tunnel, and the ground inclination angle, on the displacement of the existing tunnel. The findings reveal that inclined ground can cause the maximum uplift position of the existing tunnel to deviate, and this offset is positively correlated with the angle. Based on these factors, practical construction recommendations are provided.
Learning Marine Biology Quantitative Skills Through Computational Thinking
Authors: Christensen Dana
Published: January 2025

Increased technological advances within marine biology requires professionals to become versed in interdisciplinary computer-based skills. Computational thinking (CT) is a contemporary concept used in educational settings across the globe to meet this need. CT has been incorporated into many curricula; however, incorporation strategies are vague and result in specific challenges for post-secondary marine science educators. We developed a framework to support an intervention which incorporated CT into learning marine biology quantitative skills for students in an introductory marine science course at a small liberal arts university in the northeastern United States through a quasi-experimental action research design. We assessed student participant content knowledge through two assessments, student artifacts and a self-perception survey. Results indicate that the intervention was successful in overall participant knowledge gains in both quantitative marine biology skills and computational thinking. Our research design may shed light on how post-secondary institutions may address student range of computational thinking skills within marine science to better support sustainability practices and promote equity and present its applicability to other settings.
At the Baltic gate: Copenhagen's role in international shipping in the latter half of the eighteenth century
Authors: Kaukiainen Yrjö
Published: January 2025

In the late eighteenth century, Copenhagen was the second biggest urban centre in the Baltic Sea area. Its port was both an international terminal and the paramount shipping centre of the Danish–Norwegian monarchy. In the 1750s, over 80 per cent of arriving ships still came from the different parts of the monarchy, but this proportion diminished gradually to two-thirds and, in terms of tonnage, foreign vessels probably accounted for about 60 per cent of the incoming cargo at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Traffic in the port of Copenhagen grew slightly faster than overall shipping through the Danish Sound and, at the end of the period, Copenhagen was, on a par with St. Petersburg, one of the busiest ports in the Baltic Sea area. Its role in the commodity flows between eastern Baltic ports and western Europe remained modest, but in several other trades it became more closely integrated with international shipping.
Improving Medication Adherence in Psychiatric Patients With a Medication Adherence Program
Authors: Peterson Whitney
Published: January 2025

Background:

It’s estimated that over 50% of patients prescribed antipsychotic medication are nonadherent to the prescribed treatment. Medication nonadherence impedes the patient’s safety, leads to relapse, and the need for rehospitalization. Thus bolstering the importance of routine nursing follow-up interventions to improve adherence rates in patient with SMI.

Aims:

The purpose of this research is to address the significant impact that medication nonadherence has on patients with serious mental illness (SMI) and the positive impact that telephonic medication adherence programs have on improving patient outcomes through enhanced medication adherence.

Methods:

The literature was examined from the past 5 years (2016–2021) on the use of telephonic follow-up interventions to improve medication adherence in patients with psychiatric disorders and other chronic diseases at risk for mental illness. Databases (PubMed, CINAHL, ProQuest, and the Cochrane Library) were used. The inclusion criteria focused on psychiatric disorders, telephone calls to improve medication adherence, and the use of questionnaires to determine adherence.

Results:

The implementation of telephonic follow-up after discharge has proven to be an effective strategy to promote medication adherence in patients with mental illness and to provide additional support (emotional, side effect management, appointment reminders, and activity involvement) to improve the patient’s well-being.

Conclusions:

Telephonic follow-up is an effective strategy to improve medication adherence in patients with SMI and other chronic diseases as a short-term intervention (less than 24 months). Further research is needed on the benefits of telephonic follow-up as a long-term intervention (beyond 24 months).
The health and well-being of children with medical complexity and their parents’ when admitted to inpatient care units: A scoping review
Authors: Mackay Lyndsay , Dewan Tammie , Asaad Lauren , Buchanan Francine , Hayden K Alix , Montgomery Lara , Chang Una
Published: January 2025

Children with medical complexity (CMC) are regularly admitted to inpatient care units to receive medical care. While admissions for CMC and their parents can negatively impact their health and well-being, mapping of evidence in this area appears underreported. A scoping review using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology was conducted to map evidence on CMC and parents’ experiences of care. The purpose of this paper is to report the findings from the scoping review specific to CMC and parents’ experiences of care on their health and well-being. A total of 24 articles were synthesized, and themes included: psychological impacts for parents, impacts on functions of daily living, parents’ coping strategies for psychological well-being, impacts of hospitalization on CMC, CMC coping strategies, spirituality, and interventional studies. Findings from this review demonstrate that CMC and their parents struggled with their psychological and emotional well-being and that both CMC and parents coped with the stress of hospitalization in a variety of ways. Healthcare professionals need to be educated on how to support CMC and their parents during hospitalization. Future development and implementation of innovative care models and interventions that offer CMC and their parents with enhanced psychosocial support are recommended.
Insulted and outraged: How do Portuguese journalists experience precarity
Authors: Araújo Rita
Published: January 2025

Journalism studies’ literature on precarity has mainly focused on job insecurity, job loss, and the increase of atypical work relationships. Several studies report a growing deterioration of journalists’ work conditions worldwide, indicating a precarization of journalism. Precarity may impact journalistic norms and routines, it may contribute to dissatisfaction and loss of quality of life, it may impact journalists’ health and wellbeing, and even the quality of news content. Journalists’ experiences of precarity should, therefore, be explored. This study aims at assessing Portuguese journalists’ perceptions of precarity through semi-structured interviews ( N = 50) followed by a qualitative content analysis. Precarity emerged as one of journalists’ top concerns, and several interviewees classified their incomes as “insulting,” “ridiculous” or “outrageous.” Journalists also worry that precarity may be contributing to a lack of diversity within newsrooms, making the profession “off-limits” to many.
Net icons and memetic imagery of protest in online activism
Authors: Fahlenbrach Kathrin
Published: January 2025

The article is dedicated to memetic practices of symbolic protest images in online activism, focusing on net memes and net icons of protest. Considering the particular affordances in the creation, distribution and reception of memetic imagery in online activism, key research questions are: (1) what are distinctive memetic practices in online activism of iconizing images on social media platforms? (2) what are specific differences between net memes and iconic imagery of protest in social media environments? and (3) how do emblematic image events on the street and iconic imagery on the internet interact in visual practices of online activists? After a theoretical discussion, these questions will be addressed by means of a qualitative analysis of a small sample of social media postings around civil rights activism (Black Lives Matter and the Belarussian Democracy Movement). Starting from a classic news icon originating from the protests against the Vietnam War (‘Ultimate Confrontation’ by press photographer, Marc Riboud, in 1967), this article analyses its recent memetic appropriations on digital platforms and in performative protest actions on the street.
Associations Between Diabetes Knowledge, the Prevalence of Diet-Related Chronic Conditions, and Dietary Behavior Among Hispanic/Latino Farm Workers with Type 2 Diabetes in the Salinas Valley, California, USA
Authors: Rodriguez Elizabeth , Klobodu Seth Selorm , Silliman Kathryn , Skarbek Anita , Figueroa Roger
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Studies on diabetes prevalence among U.S. farmworkers indicate prevalence ranging from 9.3% in California to 16.1% in Arizona, with 39.9% of the California cases previously undiagnosed. Hispanic/Latino farmworkers in California face unique barriers that place them at high risk for undiagnosed and poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes (T2D). Despite this, limited research has been conducted to assess their T2D knowledge.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey tests associations between diabetes knowledge, prevalence of concurrent chronic health conditions, and dietary behavior. Participants (n = 118) were recruited using unstructured and snowball sampling approaches.

Results

On average, diabetes knowledge among participants who use insulin was considered low with a score of 9.57/20 (48% correct) and 9.15/18 (51% correct) for participants who do not use insulin. It was found that health insurance status (p = 0.015) and general education level (p = 0.001) were predictors of diabetes knowledge. Hypertension was the most prevalent chronic health condition among study participants (n = 61) and no significant correlation was found between diabetes knowledge and prevalence of a chronic health condition or dietary behavior.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that insurance status and general education attainment may influence diabetes knowledge among Hispanic/Latino farmworkers.
Empowering Fall Prevention Through Integrated Lifestyle Medicine Strategies—From Recognition of Fall Risks to Implementation of Prevention of Falls for all in Practice
Authors: Do Nhi Ma , Tolos Chris
Published: January 2025

Falls remain the leading cause of unintentional injuries across all age groups, prompting many emergency room visits. The annual estimated cost associated with falls is believed to exceed 100 billion dollars. In addressing this trend, health professional team members emerge as key players and can assume a crucial role in bridging the gap between lifestyle medicine and fall prevention. By imparting strategies aligned with the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine, these professionals can educate individuals on risk factors, assess fall risk, and offer activities to mitigate the likelihood of future falls. This collaborative approach empowers all to take immediate and informed action, fostering a proactive stance against the prevalent issue of fall-related injuries. Through the background and practical strategies described in this paper, health professionals of various disciplines will have access to tools and knowledge to enhance their role in preventing falls using the lens of lifestyle medicine.
Effects of Personalized DiaBetes TEXT Messaging Combined with Peer Support Education on Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Romadlon Debby Syahru , Huang Hui-Chuan , Chen Yu-Chi , Hu Sophia H , Kurniawan Rudy , Tarigan Tri Juli Edi , Al Baqi Safiruddin , Hasan Faizul , Chiu Hsiao-Yean
Published: January 2025

Background:

To investigate the effects of personalized DiaBetes TEXT messaging combined with Peer Support Education (DB-TEXT+ PSE) on clinical outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

An assessor-blinded, three-arm randomized controlled trial recruited 84 participants between December 2022 and July 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to a DB-TEXT + PSE group, a DB-TEXT group, or a professional education program (PEP) group. Primary outcomes included glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels, and clinical remission rates, whereas secondary outcomes measured lipid profiles, fatigue, sleep quality, depression, and quality of life (QoL). Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0), three months (T1), and six months (T2) postintervention.

Results:

Relative to PEP, personalized DB-TEXT + PSE and DB-TEXT alone led to significantly reduced HbA1c levels at T1 and decreased FBG levels at T1 and T2. Type 2 diabetes remission was achieved by 35.7% and 50% of the participants in the DB-TEXT + PSE group, by 17.9% and 25% in the DB-TEXT group, and by 3.7% and 3.7% in the PEP group at T1 and T2, respectively. Relative to the PEP, DB-TEXT + PSE led to significantly reduced TC levels, diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and improved sleep quality and QoL over time.

Conclusions:

Personalized DB-TEXT + PSE is more effective at enhancing clinical outcomes, reducing fatigue, improving sleep quality, and improving quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes than DB-TEXT alone and PEPs are. Educators can incorporate personalized DB-TEXT + PSE as a component of diabetes education programs and thereby integrate digital interventions and supplementary programs.
The Benefits of Intentional Nurse Rounds in Schools
Authors: Springer Trio M. , Rau Wendy , Springer Paul R.
Published: January 2025

Nurse rounds have long been an established practice in clinical settings, resulting in improved patient care through accurate assessment, evaluation, and communication. This practice has also been shown to create seamless patient-centered care among the medical team, the patient, and their family members. While nurse rounds are an important component of clinical care, school nurses have not adopted this practice. Rather, school nurses utilize the School Nurse Practice Framework. This Framework guides school nurses in promoting student health and academic success in a safe school environment. While the Framework provides guidance in how school nurses can achieve successful care coordination by prioritizing relationship building and professional practice, the incorporation of school nursing rounds complements the Framework principles and provides proactive student support and elevates school nursing practice and visibility. When school nurses approach nursing rounds intentionally, data showed that health office visits decreased, relationships improved among students and teachers, and the school nurse became a visible and important part of the school community. This article highlights how nurse rounds were integrated into one school setting and reports on the benefits associated with this practice.
Complication Rates Following Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Chronic Sinusitis
Authors: Dhamija Ravi , Das Nikita , Ding Peng
Published: January 2025

Background

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is a minimally invasive procedure indicated for medically refractory chronic sinusitis (CRS). As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to report skull base, orbital, and hemorrhagic-associated complication rates following ESS.

Methods

A retrospective query on the TriNetX platform identified patients diagnosed with CRS who subsequently underwent ESS in the last 20 years. Outcomes analyses were performed to determine the incidence of skull base (cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, bacterial meningitis, dural tear), orbital (diplopia, optic nerve injury, blindness, epiphora, orbital hemorrhage, canthotomy/canthoplasty), and hemorrhagic (epistaxis, carotid artery injury, blood transfusion) complications within 30 days postoperatively. Kaplan-Meier Analysis estimated survival probability from each complication type. Outcome rates were also compared between female and male patients.

Results

A total of 116 669 patients from 55 healthcare organizations fit the study criteria. The average age at surgery was 47.9 ± 17.9 years. The gender distribution of the cohort was 50% female and 48% male. The risk of skull base, orbital, and hemorrhagic complications within 30 days of the surgery was found to be 0.212%, 0.741%, and 3.00%, respectively. Kaplan-Meier Analysis revealed that survival probability from each complication type was 99.783%, 99.260%, and 96.903%, respectively. Comparison of outcome risks stratified by gender revealed no major differences for skull base and orbital complications; however, males exhibited a significantly higher risk of hemorrhagic complications (3.2% vs 2.8%, P < .0001).

Conclusions

The study supports ESS as a safe procedure for the management of CRS. Though rare, hemorrhagic complications are more common than orbital and skull base complications. Hemorrhagic complications are also more common in men than women. These findings provide insights for counseling patients about ESS risks and benefits.
Texture Analysis of Cartilage Repair Tissue Maturation: Comparison of Two Cartilage Repair Methods and Correlation with MOCART 2.0
Authors: Janacova Veronika , Szomolanyi Pavol , Sitarcikova Diana , Kirner Alexandra , Trattnig Siegfried , Juras Vladimir
Published: January 2025

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the maturation of matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte transplantation (MACT) grafts up to 2 years after the surgery using gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) texture analysis of quantitative T2 maps, compare the results with the microfracturing technique (MFX) control group, and relate these results to the morphological MOCART 2.0 score.

Design

A subcohort of 37 patients from prospective, multi-center study underwent examination on a 3T MR scanner, including a T2 mapping sequence at 3, 12, and 24 months after surgery. Changes between the time-points in the mean T2 values and 20 GLCM features extracted from T2 maps were assessed in repair tissue, tissue adjacent to the repair site, and the reference cartilage for both procedures.

Results

Significant correlations were found between the MOCART 2.0 and GLCM features for both surgical procedures. There were no significant differences between MACT and MFX. We identified significant intra-group changes in T2 and autocorrelation (3M-12M: P = 0.002; 3M-24M: P = 0.004), dissimilarity (3M-24M: P = 0.01), homogeneity (3M-24M: P = 0.013), and correlation (3M-24M: P = 0.036), sum average (3M-12M: P = 0.001; 3M-24M: P = 0.002), and information measure (3M-24M: P < 0.001) in the MACT repair tissue. MACT models revealed differences in GLCM between all combinations of ROI types at almost all time-points. In the case of MFX, the significant differences were mainly between repair and reference tissue at 12 months.

Conclusion

Texture analysis provides a useful extension to T2 mapping. Texture features are correlated to the morphological outcome and reveal differences in the process of maturation between MACT and MFX.
Photon-counting CT imaging of a patient with coiled and untreated intracranial saccular aneurysms
Authors: Tóth Adrienn , Cho Jennifer Y , Wilson Evan , O’Doherty Jim , Spampinato Maria Vittoria
Published: January 2025

We describe a novel application of photon-counting detector CT (PCD-CT) in neurovascular imaging by harnessing the improved spatial resolution, attenuation of electronic noise, and reduction of metal artifacts. The presented case offers the unique challenge of high-quality imaging for the assessment of treated and untreated intracranial saccular aneurysms, in the setting of metal artifacts from embolization coils. Our goal was to explore optimized reconstruction parameters for ultra-high-resolution imaging (UHR) using a dedicated, sharp neurovascular kernel (Hv72) and the highest strength of quantum iterative reconstruction (QIR-4) for detailed characterization of the vasculature. Virtual monoenergetic images (VMIs) and iterative metal artifact reduction (IMAR) were employed to investigate metal artifact reduction techniques. PCD-CT has the promising potential to enhance patient care in the follow-up of patients with treated aneurysms requiring more complex imaging parameters and image post-processing due to intracranial artifacts.
The Co-Evolution of Personal Networks and Loneliness Following Widowhood: Resources or Costs for Older Men and Women?
Authors: Lee Jin A , Schafer Markus H.
Published: January 2025

Drawing from the life-course framework and an integrated model of social resources and social costs, this article investigates (1) the dynamics of personal network changes, (2) their impact on loneliness following widowhood, and (3) the gender-specific effects of these changes. Analyzing panel data from the German Ageing Survey ( N = 7,012; observations = 20,816) using multi-level mixed-effects models, the study reveals a modest expansion in non-kin networks and the number of children in networks after widowhood. Additionally, the findings indicate that over time, widowed individuals generally experience a reduction in the distance to their nearest network members, particularly kin. Growing non-kin networks are associated with lower loneliness following widowhood. Geographic changes in networks display gender-specific patterns: proximity to children is linked to reduced loneliness for widowed men, but greater loneliness for widowed women. These results underscore the complex and gendered nature of relational adaptations to widowhood, highlighting that network changes can offer both benefits and challenges during life transitions. The study also suggests that considering opportunity costs can be a valuable extension of the social cost framework.
Effect of Rheumatoid Arthritis on Postoperative Outcomes in Patients with Lumbar Spinal Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Honda Shintaro , Murata Koichi , Sakamoto Masaki , Shiroshita Akihiro , Saka Natsumi , Otsuki Bungo , Shimizu Takayoshi , Sono Takashi , Masuda Soichiro , Shima Koichiro , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: January 2025

Study Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with clinical outcomes following spinal surgery for lumbar spinal disorders.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were comprehensively searched for observational studies comparing clinical outcomes after lumbar spine surgery in patients with and without RA (>18 years). Quality assessment was conducted using the Quality in Prognosis Studies assessment tool. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios were calculated for reoperation and surgical site infection by using a random effects model. Subgroup analyses were conducted to examine the effect of surgery type.

Results

Seven studies with 72,969 patients, including 7518 patients with RA, were analyzed. All studies had a moderate risk of bias. Patients with RA had a significantly higher odds of reoperation (OR: 5.57; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10-28.26; I2 = 92%; P = 0.04) and higher odds of surgical site infection (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.28-1.69; I2 = 2%; P < 0.01). No statistically significant difference was found in reoperation-free survival between patients with RA and those without RA (hazard ratio: 1.15; 95% CI: 0.94-1.40; I2 = 100%; P = 0.16). Patients with RA had higher complication rates, with incidence rates ranging from 13.5% to 57%, compared with those without RA.

Conclusion

Compared with patients without RA, patients with RA may be more likely to undergo reoperations and suffer from complications following surgery for lumbar spine lesions.
Making waves: How to improve scholarly impact performance through stakeholder engagement
Authors: Aguinis Herman , Gibson Bria C.
Published: January 2025

Most scholarly impact measures focus exclusively on an essential but single group of stakeholders: other researchers. However, business research aims to benefit not only other researchers (i.e., internal) but also additional (i.e., external) stakeholders. Accordingly, we offer an expanded multidimensional and multistakeholder conceptualization of scholarly impact that includes the following dimensions and their stakeholders: (1) personal (i.e., individual researchers), (2) theory and research (i.e., other researchers), (3) educational (i.e., students, parent institutions, and university community), (4) organizational (i.e., practitioners including managers, consultants, and industry), (5) societal (i.e., media, policymakers, governments, and nongovernmental organizations), and (6) global (i.e., international institutions). We also describe scholarly impact measures across these dimensions and stakeholders. Then, we extend the capacity, opportunity, and relevant exchanges (CORE) performance model to describe the construct of scholarly impact performance (SIP) and provide actionable recommendations that individuals and organizations can implement to enhance SIP across institutional contexts (i.e., research-intensive, teaching-oriented, and those in emerging countries). In sum, we offer a broader conceptualization of scholarly impact, measures, and recommendations for incentivizing and enhancing SIP.

JEL Classification: A10, A13, D02, D21, F60, I20, I23, I26, L2
‘Uplifting all voices within education’: What fosters widening participation students’ sense of inclusion in higher education?
Authors: Jones Sian E , Appleby Jodie , Sartore Valentina , Lola-Luz Daphne , Camus Lorna
Published: January 2025

In spite of a recruitment drive in Scotland, little is known about where and whether Widening Participation students see their inclusion in the university setting, or what helps education students from a WP background to feel included. The current project explored education students’ perceptions of inclusion at a Scottish university. A total of N = 66 students responded to a survey or took part in a focus group to determine their individual definitions of inclusion and then perceptions of inclusion both inside the university classroom and within the student body. Definitions of inclusion typically focused on meeting learners’ needs and equality of access for all learners. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to explore participants’ perceptions of their own inclusion. Findings revealed that inclusion (and lack of inclusion) happened at different levels within the university. There were positive experiences of inclusion with themes of classroom engagement, lecturer approachability, and an inclusive course ethos. Students also identified areas where they felt a greater sense of inclusion could be achieved. We discuss the implications of these findings in terms of support for WP education students.
Induction by caterpillars of stored and emitted volatiles in terpene chemotypes from populations of wild cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: Mamin Marine , Clancy Mary V. , Flückiger Galien , Quijano-Medina Teresa , Pérez-Niño Biiniza , Abdala-Roberts Luis , Turlings Ted C. J. , Bustos-Segura Carlos
Published: January 2025

Background

Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) plants constitutively store volatile terpenes in their leaves, which are steadily emitted at low levels. Herbivory leads to a greater release of these stored volatiles. Additionally, damaged plants increase the accumulation of volatile terpenes in their leaves and begin to synthesize and emit other terpenes and additional compounds. This has been well characterised for cultivated G. hirsutum, but little is known about volatile production in response to herbivory in wild populations. We investigated how damage by a generalist herbivore species, the beet armyworm (Spodoptera exigua), affects leaf-stored and emitted volatiles in wild G. hirsutum plants and compared the responses of two known chemotypes. Wild cotton plants were grown in a greenhouse from seeds collected from four distinct locations covering sixteen populations, along the Yucatan coast (Mexico), from where this cotton species originates. We assessed whether the differences in leaf terpene profiles between the two chemotypes persisted upon herbivory, in leaves and in headspace emissions, and whether these chemotypes also differed in the production and release of herbivory-induced volatiles. In addition to chemotypic variation, we further investigated intraspecific variation in the volatile response to herbivory among genotypes, populations, and the four geographic regions.

Results

The difference between the two chemotypes persisted after herbivory in the stored volatile profile of induced leaves, as well as in the emissions from damaged plants. Therefore, wild cotton chemotypes may differ in their airborne interactions with their environment. The specific terpenes distinguishing these chemotypes showed a weak inducibility, raising questions about their functions. Herbivory triggered changes in stored and emitted volatiles similar to what is known for cultivated varieties of G. hirsutum. However, we report for the first time on the emission of volatile aldoximes by cotton plants, which were only detected in the headspace upon herbivory, and displayed chemotypic and interpopulation variation. Intraspecific variation was also observed in the induced emissions of nitriles and certain terpenes. Moreover, chemotypes differed in their induction of (E)-β-ocimene stored in the leaves.

Conclusions

This comprehensive insight into herbivore-induced volatiles of wild cotton reveals variation in production and emission among populations. A full understanding of their ecological role may help in the development of future pest-management strategies for cotton crops.
Quantifying the potential value of entomological data collection for programmatic decision-making on malaria control in sub-Saharan African settings
Authors: Schmit Nora , Topazian Hillary M. , Pianella Matteo , Charles Giovanni D. , Winskill Peter , Hancock Penelope A. , Sherrard-Smith Ellie , Hauck Katharina , Churcher Thomas S. , Ghani Azra C.
Published: January 2025

Background

The availability of many tools for malaria control leads to complex decisions regarding the most cost-effective intervention package based on local epidemiology. Mosquito characteristics influence the impact of vector control, but entomological surveillance is often limited due to a lack of resources in national malaria programmes.

Methods

This study quantified the monetary value of information provided by entomological data collection for programmatic decision-making using a mathematical model of Plasmodium falciparum transmission. The 3-year impact and cost of various intervention packages was simulated in different sub-Saharan African settings, including combinations of scaling-up insecticide-treated nets (ITN), switching to next-generation ITNs, and a treatment and prevention package. The DALYs averted and their net monetary benefit were compared at different cost-effectiveness thresholds and the value of resolving uncertainty in entomological model parameters was calculated.

Results

Across transmission settings and at cost-effectiveness thresholds over US$170 per DALY averted, the most cost-effective intervention package was switching to and scaling up pyrethroid-pyrrole ITNs combined with the treatment and prevention package. The median expected value of perfect information on the entomological indicators was US$0.05 (range 0.02–0.23) and US$0.17 (range 0.09–1.43) per person at risk at thresholds of US$75 and US$1000 per DALY averted, respectively. This represented less than 2% of the net monetary benefit of implementing the most cost-effective intervention package. Value of information estimates at cost-effectiveness thresholds over US$250 were higher than current investments into entomological monitoring by the US President’s Malaria Initiative.

Conclusions

These results suggest that entomological data collection should not delay implementation of interventions with demonstrated efficacy in most settings, but that sustained investments into and use of entomological surveillance are nevertheless worthwhile and have broad value to national malaria programmes.
Current status and factors influencing kinesiophobia in patients with meniscus injury: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tang Faqiang , Xu Pan , Jiang Cai , Ke Xiaohua , Huang Dunbing , Dai Yaling , Lin Zhonghua , Wang Shizhong
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the relationships between kinesiophobia and injury severity, balance ability, knee pain intensity, self-efficacy, and functional status in patients with meniscus injuries and to identify key predictors of kinesiophobia.

Design

A single-center, prospective cross-sectional study.

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving 123 patients diagnosed with meniscus injuries at Fujian Provincial Hospital was conducted. The knee range of motion test was used to determine limitations in knee joint mobility, whereas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to assess the severity of meniscus damage. Several validated scales were administered: the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-17) to measure kinesiophobia, the visual analog scale (VAS) to assess pain intensity, the general self-efficacy scale (GSES) to evaluate self-efficacy, and the Lysholm knee score (LKS) to assess knee functional status. Additionally, balance ability was assessed using the Huber 360 Neuromuscular Control Training and Assessment System (DJO, USA). Spearman’s correlation analysis was applied to explore factors associated with kinesiophobia, whereas simple linear regression analysis was used to identify its predictors.

Results

Among the 123 participants included in the study, 60.16% were identified as experiencing kinesiophobia. Among these participants, 69.10% had grade III meniscus injuries, and 33.3% exhibited limited joint movement. The key clinical characteristics were as follows: the median VAS score was 4 (IQR 2–6), the GSES score was 22 (IQR 20–29), and the LKS score was 45 (IQR 38–55). Kinesiophobia was significantly correlated with injury severity, limited joint movement, pain intensity, self-efficacy, and other functional parameters (P < 0.05). However, no significant correlation was detected between kinesiophobia and limits of stability. Simple linear regression analysis (R²=0.917) revealed several significant predictors of kinesiophobia, including injury severity (β = 2.08), pain intensity (β = 0.882), Romberg quotient (RQ) (β = 3.239), and limited joint movement (β = 0.868). In contrast, self-efficacy (β =-0.455) was negatively associated with kinesiophobia. Furthermore, Grade III injuries and RQ were found to be associated with markedly higher levels of kinesiophobia.

Conclusion

Kinesiophobia is strongly associated with knee injury severity, limited joint movement, RQ, pain intensity, and self-efficacy, which are key predictors. Clinical interventions should focus on these factors to enhance rehabilitation outcomes.
A comprehensive comparison of PARP inhibitors as maintenance therapy in platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Ji Shiya , Chen Lu , Yu Yebo , Chen Xupeng , Wei Liwen , Gou Lili , Shi Cheng , Zhuang Susu
Published: January 2025

Background

PARP inhibitors (PARPis) have shown promising effectiveness for ovarian cancer. This network meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration number CRD42024503390) comprehensively evaluated the effectiveness and safety of PARPis in platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer (PSROC).

Methods

Articles published before January 6, 2024 were obtained from electronic databases. The study assessed and compared survival outcomes including overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), second progression-free survival (PFS2), time to first subsequent treatment (TFST), time to second subsequent treatment (TSST), and chemotherapy-free interval (CFI). Additionally, safety outcomes were investigated, specifically focusing on grade 3–4 treatment-emergent adverse effects (TEAEs). The evaluation of OS and PFS was also conducted based on the BRCA and HRD (homologous recombination deficiency) statuses.

Results

Six randomized controlled trials were examined and the four PARPis (olaparib, niraparib, rucaparib and fuluzolparib) have been found to significantly increase the PFS in entire population as well as in subgroups of HRD and BRCAm (BRCA mutation). Only olaparib demonstrated a substantial improvement in OS compared to placebo in entire population (hazard ratio [HR] 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–0.90), as well as in the subgroup of BRCAm. All analyzed PARPis had significant efficacy in prolonging PFS2, TFST, TSST and CFI. For safety concerns, PARPis could significantly increase incidence of TEAEs (grade3-4), while olaparib had least haematological TEAEs (grade3-4) events compared to other PARPis.

Conclusion

All included PARPis showed various degrees of benefit in survival outcomes and safety profile was acceptable for PSROC patients. Among them olaparib had the best performance in both efficacy and safety.
Assessment of smartphone-based active distraction in association with audioanalgesia for overcoming airotor-related anxiety in children: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bali Kritika , Ailawadi Radhika , Karuna Y. M. , Srikant N. , Rao Ashwin , Nayak P. Anupama , Thimmaiah Charisma
Published: January 2025

Background

Most children experience distress while visiting a dentist, above which the sound of the airotor and suction machine results in fear and difficulty in performing further procedures.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled parallel-group study of 40 children aged 6–13 years who required cavity preparation via the airotor. The children were randomly allocated to either Group 1 (Piano music app; active distraction combined with audio analgesia) or Group 2 (basic behavioural guidance alone). Self-reported dental anxiety was measured via a modified child dental anxiety scale, and behavior was assessed via Venham’s and FLACC (Faces Legs Activity Cry and Consolability) scales. The data obtained were subjected to appropriate statistical analysis.

Results

Self-reported dental anxiety was significantly lower in group 1 (p < 0.005). No significant difference between the groups was observed for the Venham and FLACC scores.

Conclusion

Compared with basic behavioural guidance alone, the use of active distraction with audio analgesia in the form of the piano music app significantly decreased the degree of dental anxiety caused by the use of the airotor. This also resulted in clinically better cooperation by the child during cavity preparation.

Trial Registration

Registered in the Clinical Trials Registry India (CTRI/2024/07/070160) dated 08/07/2024.
An updated systematic review with meta-analysis and meta-regression of the factors associated with human visceral leishmaniasis in the Americas
Authors: Duarte Anna Gabryela Sousa , Werneck Guilherme Loureiro , de Farias Lelis Sarah , Mendonça Thays Santos , Vasconcelos Daniela Dias , Gontijo Tiago Silveira , dos Santos Álisson Oliveira , Donato Lucas Edel , Belo Vinícius Silva
Published: January 2025

Background

Human visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a systemic disease with high case-fatality rates and a widespread distribution. Continuous evaluation of the risk factors for VL is essential to ensure the effective implementation of prevention and control measures. The present study reviews the factors associated with VL in the Americas.

Methods

This systematic review updates a previous 2013 report by including cross-sectional, cohort and case-control studies published between July 2011 and April 2024. Associations between VL and risk factors were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, and meta-regression models. Studies were classified according to level of evidence using the GRADE approach and the evolution in the quality of investigations was assessed.

Results

Forty-six studies were included in the review and 21 variables were evaluated in the meta-analyses. Combination of all study types revealed that men had greater chances of VL than women, but the association was strong and significant only in case-control studies. Although higher chances of VL in children and in households with dogs or chickens/other fowl were identified in case-control studies, an inverse association was observed in cross-sectional and cohort studies. Higher chances of VL were associated with poor economic/living conditions, individuals living in domiciles with backyards or with seropositive dogs, and individuals with prior contact with infected household members/relatives/neighbors. The level of evidence for associations of VL with sex and age was classified as moderate whilst that for all other associations was either low or very low. The methodological quality of recent studies showed a positive progression but shortcomings were still evident regarding selection criteria and methods of data analysis.

Conclusion

While there is a higher incidence of symptomatic VL among men and children, the likelihood of infection is similar between the groups. There is insufficient evidence to support the claim that the presence of dogs or fowl at the domicile increases the chances of VL. However, socioeconomic and living conditions, as well as previous occurrence of human and canine VL, are influential factors. Future research should be conducted with greater statistical power and using molecular diagnostic techniques, preferably involving cohort studies in diverse Latin American countries.

Graphical Abstract
Analysis of functional and phylogenetic diversity of bat communities: insights from resource use in the Pantanal and Cerrado
Authors: de Oliveira Marcione B. , de Oliveira Luiz Flamarion B. , Bonvicino Cibele R.
Published: January 2025

Background

Assessing the structure of communities requires analysis of multiple dimensions of biological diversity. Such approaches provide a broader understanding of the ecological and historical factors involved in the formation and maintenance of communities. Metrics such as functional and phylogenetic diversity are crucial as they unveil how communities respond to environmental changes, providing a deeper understanding of their current state and resilience. This goes beyond species richness or community composition, enabling more profound insights into their present condition and resilience. Therefore, analysis in this sense allows accessing differences in the distribution of species, considering different landscape mosaics, and allowing strategic prioritization of conservation initiatives. In this sense, we investigated whether the composition of functional and phylogenetic groups of chiropteran species differs between the Pantanal and Cerrado biomes and various habitat types. We hypothesize that communities with greater conservation integrity are more diverse than communities that suffer anthropogenic influences.

Methods

The surveyed communities include two areas in the Pantanal and two in the Cerrado, with one conservation unit and one that suffers anthropic influence, for each biome. We assessed the composition of bat assemblages by examining functional richness (FRic), functional uniformity (FEve), functional divergence (FDiv), and functional dispersion (FDis). Metrics that reflect phylogenetic richness and divergence were also used, such as phylogenetic diversity (PD), mean pairwise distance (MPD), and mean nearest taxon distance (MNTD).

Results and discussion

Overall, conservation units sustain higher levels of functional and phylogenetic diversity compared to areas with anthropic influence. In the latter, species occupy fewer ecological niches, indicating that bats can persist in degraded environments, albeit the communities support only a portion of the functional groups.

Conclusion

Our results showed, through analyses across multiple dimensions of functional and phylogenetic diversity, that bat populations are impacted by environmental degradation and fragmentation. Communities in more conserved areas exhibited higher functional and phylogenetic richness, indicating a greater number of occupied niches. These findings highlight the importance of exploring measures of biological diversity and their spatial scales to advance our understanding of biodiversity dynamics and optimize conservation planning for both species and communities.
Impact of discontinuation of cephazolin prophylaxis on the incidence of postoperative adverse events in cataract surgery
Authors: Uchida Kazutaka , Takahama Keita , Higashi Kenshiro , Kusano Yuki , Matsumoto Koki , Nakagawa Yoshihiro , Oda Kazutaka
Published: January 2025

Background

Cataract surgeries are increasing annually, making appropriate medical management essential. The routine use of systemic antimicrobial agents for preventing surgical site infections lacks strong evidence and may increase the risk of drug-resistant bacteria and adverse events. This study examined the impact of discontinuing cefazolin (CEZ) administration during the perioperative period of cataract surgery on the incidence of postoperative adverse events and medical costs.

Methods

Inpatient cataract surgery patients were divided into two groups: the CEZ-use group (April 2021 to March 2022) and the non-CEZ-use group (April 2022 to March 2023). The primary endpoints were the incidence of adverse events and medical costs, while the secondary endpoint was the incidence of endophthalmitis.

Results

A total of 265 patients were in the CEZ group, and 316 were in the non-CEZ group. Six postoperative adverse events (2.3%, 95% confidence interval: 0.8–4.9) occurred in the CEZ group, with an estimated 230 patients (80–490 from the 95% confidence interval) expected to experience adverse events per 10,000 patients using CEZ. The non-CEZ group had no adverse events and reduced drug costs by approximately 46,000 yen. Insurance claim amounts were also reduced. No cases of early postoperative endophthalmitis were observed in either group.

Conclusions

Discontinuation of CEZ prophylaxis during the perioperative period of cataract surgery effectively reduced the risk of adverse events. Medical for the period after discontinuing CEZ did not increase.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered.