bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can the Environmental Credit Evaluation Policy Alleviate the Overcapacity of Heavily Polluting Enterprises?
Authors: Sun Chuanwang , Chen Jiahui
Published: January 2025

Addressing pollution caused by economic development, especially the overcapacity of polluting enterprises, is crucial for promoting sustainable economic growth. Targeted environmental policies are essential for strengthening environmental constraints on enterprises and enhancing the effectiveness of regulatory instruments. This study focused on the Environmental Credit Evaluation policy by examining its potential to improve capacity utilization and assessing its broader impact on heavily polluting enterprises. It constructed a time‐varying difference‐in‐difference‐in‐differences model using panel data from 965 industrial enterprises from 2009 to 2019. The findings reveal that, in comparison with their non‐heavily polluting counterparts, heavily polluting enterprises subject to the policy demonstrated significant improvements in capacity utilization. Heavily polluting enterprises that experienced a substantial increase in financing costs also exhibited a marked reduction in inefficient investment, without negatively affecting innovation investments or output.
How Does the Belt and Road Initiative Improve China's Product Export Potential: A Global Value Chain Perspective
Authors: Zhang Liang , Fu Dahai , Wu Chengjun , Liu Yuanyuan , Xi Yanle
Published: January 2025

This study examines the impact of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on China's export potential at the product level. Using country–product‐level data from the Centre d'Etudes Prospectives d'Informations Internationales‐Base pour l'Analyse du Commerce International (CEPII‐BACI), which includes 5,049 product types across 196 economies from 2007 to 2022, it explores the trade effects of the BRI and its mechanisms from the perspective of global value chains. The results indicate that the BRI has increased China's product export potential significantly to participating countires. The BRI has had the greatest impact on capital goods and labor‐ and capital‐intensive industries. The effect has been most pronounced in China's exports to Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Europe. The mechanism analysis reveals that the BRI has improved the division of labor in the global value chains for participating countries along the BRI, strengthened China's position in their output supply chains, and stimulated the growth of China's exports.
Do Institutional Investor Cliques Undermine Stock Price Efficiency?
Authors: Jiang Hai , Chen Shuangyi , Wang Zifeng
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effects of institutional investor cliques on stock price efficiency. Using a community network algorithm, it identifies cliques of institutional investors and finds that they significantly undermined stock price efficiency in China. The robustness of this finding is demonstrated through a range of methodologies, including the substitution of dependent variables, the alteration of estimation methods, the exclusion of data from extreme market periods, and the application of instrumental variables. The role of institutional investor cliques in diminishing market efficiency is attributed to market speculation. The detrimental effect of cliques on efficiency is exacerbated in environments characterized by low stock liquidity, poor information disclosure, and heightened panic among retail investors. However, regulatory interventions, such as inquiry letters, are shown to mitigate these effects and enhance market efficiency. These findings highlight the unexpected ways institutional investor cliques can influence emerging market economies and underscore the critical importance of effective regulation to safeguard market efficiency.
Sonographic features of active Charcot neuro‐osteoarthropathy: A case series
Authors: Pallin Jennifer A. , Lockhart Michael , O'Loughlin Aonghus , Gallagher David , Kearns Stephen R. , Dinneen Sean F. , Bergin Diane
Published: January 2025

Aims

To describe the sonographic features of active Charcot neuro‐osteoarthropathy (CNO) and assess the potential role of ultrasound in identifying those with active CNO.

Methods

Using a prospective case‐series study design we assessed the sonographic features of 14 patients with a diagnosis of diabetes presenting with clinical signs and symptoms suspicious for active CNO. Patients had standard weight‐bearing plain X‐Ray and, where possible, MRI to evaluate the presence of active CNO. Ultrasound was performed bilaterally to assess for subcutaneous oedema, intra‐articular and peri‐articular colour flow. The spectral waveform morphology, peak systolic velocity and resistive index of the dorsalis pedis arteries of both feet were also documented.

Results

Following clinical and radiological (X‐ray and MRI) assessment, 50% (n = 7) were diagnosed with active CNO. Of those with a confirmed diagnosis, ≥3 sonographic features suggestive of active CNO were observed.

Conclusions

Ultrasound combined with clinical presentation and medical history may support decision making around the diagnosis of CNO at the bedside.
Unveiling the feeding response of Spodoptera litura to natural host and artificial diet
Authors: Abbas Arzlan , Wei‐Bo Qin , Hafeez Faisal , Hasnain Ali , Shoukat Komal , Ali Jamin , Xiao Feng , Liu Jia‐Li , Ghramh Hamed A. , Khan Khalid Ali , Ullah Farman , Ri‐Zhao Chen
Published: January 2025

Behavioral studies play a crucial role in assessing food utilization in insects. However, there exists a gap in our understanding of the phenotypic plasticity in Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and how it impacts their growth, development, and potential for plant damage. This study aimed to investigate the phenotypic plasticity of S. litura, with a focus on its immature stages, and evaluate the consequences of plant damage and pest management. We conducted in vitro experiments using both a standard artificial diet and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L., Solanaceae) plants to assess the growth, development, survival, longevity, reproductive capacity, and egg‐laying capability of S. litura larvae and adults. A type II functional response was estimated for all larval instars, utilizing the Likelihood Holling's Disk model, which provided two key coefficients: the search rate (a) and handling time (Th). Our findings revealed that sixth instars exhibited exceptional agility and efficiency, requiring the shortest time to process each milligram of diet compared with other larval stages. Moreover, when larvae were fed on tobacco, they displayed the shortest developmental time and the highest fecundity. This trend extended to pupal weight, pupal duration, pupal emergence, fecundity, and longevity, which were all significantly higher in individuals fed on tobacco. Additionally, S. litura larvae that fed on tobacco exhibited greater efficiency in converting digested food and lower approximate digestibility compared to larvae fed the artificial diet. These results underscore the importance of focusing on the management of fourth, fifth, and sixth instars, which have the potential to cause severe plant damage. Understanding the functional and nutritional response of S. litura larvae enhances the efficiency of integrated pest management strategies (IPM) at early stages while minimizing ecological impact.
Epilepsy Stands Nearby: A Pilot CT Perfusion Study on Post‐Stroke Non‐Convulsive Status Epilepticus
Authors: Merli Elena , Romoli Michele , Galluzzo Simone , Zaniboni Anna , Testoni Stefania , Contardi Sara , Cece Emanuele Saverio , Nobili Fabio , Matteo Eleonora , Ricci Gabriele , Simonetti Luigi , Zini Andrea
Published: January 2025

Background

To investigate the relevance of hyperperfusion on computerised perfusion imaging (CTP) in the emergency setting in people with non‐convulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) and previous stroke, to derive relevant aspects on the epileptogenic focus and the network recruited for NCSE propagation.

Methods

We enrolled consecutive adult patients with acute‐onset NCSE and a previous stroke at a single institution undergoing CTP and EEG during symptoms. All patients underwent standard imaging including CT, CTP, CT angiograms and standard EEG within 30 min from hospital arrival. Age‐/sex‐matched NCSE without previous stroke cases and recurrent ischaemic stroke cases were included to test for accuracy of hyperperfusion rates.

Results

Overall, 15 patients had a previous stroke and developed NCSE (mean age 78 years, 46.7% female). All patients had hyperperfusion on CTP imaging (mean onset‐to‐CTP 184 min). Only one case showed hyperperfusion limited to the previous stroke lesion, and one had a combination of lesional and peri‐lesional hyperperfusion. All remaining cases (n = 13) had exclusive extra‐lesional involvement. Five cases had multiple separated hyperperfused areas, and five had ipsilateral intra‐thalamic hyperperfusion. No correlation emerged between onset‐to‐CTP timing and hyperperfusion (p value for CTP = 0.66, CBV = 0.28, MTT = 0.28, reverse Tmax = 0.66). Hyperperfusion was present in NCSE cases only and in none of age‐/sex‐matched ischaemic stroke cases (n = 18).

Conclusions

Hyperperfusion involves cortical areas external to the previous lesion site during NCSE, supporting the relevance of networks for the spatial evolution of epileptic activity and limited relevance of the lesion site for the propagation of the epileptiform activity.
Equine temporomandibular joint diseases: A systematic review
Authors: Jasiński Tomasz , Turek Bernard , Kaczorowski Michał , Brehm Walter , Skierbiszewska Katarzyna , Domino Małgorzata
Published: January 2025

Background

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a unique joint that enables mandibular movement. Temporomandibular diseases (TMDs) impair joint function, leading to more or less specific clinical signs.

Objectives

To compile and disseminate clinical data and research findings from existing publications on equine TMD.

Study design

Systematic review.

Methods

Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, literature searches were conducted in PUBMED, Scopus, and Web of Knowledge. The inclusion criteria covered case reports and research articles on equine TMDs. The selected records were grouped considering septic TMJ arthritis, primary TMJ osteoarthritis (OA), and non‐arthritic TMDs. A risk of bias assessment was performed for the research articles.

Results

Equine TMD has been described in 51 publications to date, with septic TMJ arthritis accounting for 41.2% of TMD cases, fractures/luxations for 29.4%, and primary TMJ OA for 21.6%. Trauma was confirmed or suspected in 54.9% of TMD cases. The severity of clinical signs was mild to moderate in primary TMJ OA and mild to severe in septic TMJ arthritis and non‐arthritic TMDs. Clinical signs were related to the underlying cause, particularly in terms of TMJ swelling, pain, and masticatory problems. Among diagnostic imaging modalities, CT was utilised in 92.2% of horses, radiography in 84.4%, and ultrasonography in 21.6%.

Main limitations

The lack of clinical data in some reports. A risk of bias due to missing data.

Conclusions

TMDs are infrequently described, with trauma being the most common TMD cause. TMDs are associated with TMJ dysfunction; however, the diagnostic protocol is varied. Regardless of the TMD type, a detailed diagnostic protocol should include a thorough history, detailed TMJ examination, and radiography as the first imaging choice in field practice, with CT as the ‘gold standard’ in clinical settings. For septic TMJ arthritis, a bacterial culture is recommended, while for primary TMJ OA, functional tests and local analgesia.
Assessment of tree‐associated atypical myopathy risk factors in Acer pseudoplatanus (sycamore) seeds and leaves
Authors: González‐Medina Sonia , Hyde Carolyn , Chang Yu‐Mei , Piercy Richard J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Sycamore tree‐derived hypoglycin A (HGA) toxin causes atypical myopathy (AM), an acute, equine pasture‐associated rhabdomyolysis but incidence fluctuates.

Objectives

Investigate whether tree or environmental factors influence HGA concentration in sycamore material and are associated with AM relative risk.

Study design

Retrospective and experimental prospective study.

Methods

UK sycamore population, seed production and AM incidence data were obtained. HGA concentration was measured in seeds from trees from 10 different central UK locations. The effect of tar spot infection, seed maturity, tree trunk girth, location (urban/countryside), AM cases within 130 m, soil type, facing direction of seeds on the tree and year on seed HGA concentration was examined. HGA concentration was compared in whole and homogenated seeds stored in different ways.

Results

HGA concentration in sycamore seeds was not associated with tree tar spot infection, location, trunk girth, seed weight or branch‐facing direction but HGA concentration in sycamore seeds varied significantly and in parallel year on year in the same trees. Trees in the same vicinity tended to have similar HGA concentrations in their seeds when compared with those from farther afield. Seed production estimates were positively correlated with regional AM case incidence (τb = 0.3; p = 0.007). HGA sycamore seed concentration remained stable as seeds matured, but HGA declined in leaves as they wilted in autumn. Warmer and wet storage resulted in higher HGA concentrations in seed homogenates but not in whole seeds. HGA was detected in water containing sycamore seeds for 48 h.

Main limitations

Lack of accurate weather data; sampling restricted to central England.

Conclusions

Tree factors that were investigated did not affect HGA concentration in sycamore seeds but HGA concentrations varied year on year. AM incidence is related to seed production; conditions that mimic browsing and ingestion increased seed HGA concentration. HGA toxicity could occur from contaminated water sources.
Adverse childhood experiences among parents in prison: Implications for parenting
Authors: Howland Mariann A. , Muentner Luke , Clark Valerie , Duwe Grant , Shlafer Rebecca J.
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study examined rates of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among parents of at least one minor child compared to nonparents in prison, and, among parents, mothers compared to fathers. We then assessed associations between ACEs and seven parenting variables (e.g., contact with children, interest in parenting classes).

Background

High rates of adverse and traumatic childhood experiences are documented among general prison samples. Little is known about ACEs specifically among parents in prison and possible impacts on parenting.

Method

Participants were 1,157 parents of at least one minor child (919 fathers, 198 mothers) and 549 nonparents from adult prisons in a Midwestern U.S. state. Measures were part of a larger needs and responsivity survey in 2021.

Results

Overall, 86% of individuals endorsed at least one ACE. Parents and nonparents reported similar levels of ACEs. Fathers endorsing more ACEs reported more challenges in parenting across six of seven variables. No statistically significant associations were found for mothers.

Conclusion

Findings underscore the need for both general and parenting‐focused prison programs and practices to address the ubiquity of childhood trauma among those incarcerated.

Implications

Prison‐based parenting interventions can be designed and tailored to respond to and disrupt intergenerational patterns of trauma, especially for fathers.
Overcoming Shifting Baselines: Paleo‐Behaviour Reveals Industrial Revolution as Tipping Point
Authors: Lilkendey Julian , Hegg Jens , Campbell Matthew , Zhang Jingjing , Raby Harrison , Reid Malcolm , Tromp Monica , Ash Emma , Furey Louise , White Lindsey , Walter Richard , Sabetian Armagan
Published: January 2025

Human activities have significantly altered coastal ecosystems worldwide. The phenomenon of shifting baselines syndrome (SBS) complicates our understanding of these changes, masking the true scale of human impacts. This study investigates the long‐term ecological effects of anthropogenic activities on New Zealand's coastal ecosystems over 800 years using fish otolith microchemical profiling and dynamic time warping across an entire stock unit. Results reveal a shift in snapper (Chrysophrys auratus; Sparidae) habitat‐use behaviour, transitioning from low‐salinity estuarine environments to higher‐salinity habitats, correlating with ongoing land‐use changes. This shift coincided with New Zealand's localised Industrial Revolution, which served as a tipping point for widespread ecosystem transformation. By comparing current coastal fish movement profiles with historical baselines, we provide evidence to address SBS and guide conservation strategies. Re‐establishing pre‐industrial habitat‐use behaviours in snapper will indicate successful habitat restoration, promoting overall ecosystem connectivity and resilience. Our findings enable more effective habitat restoration measures and sustainable management practices, informing policies for maintaining coastal biodiversity and ecosystem function.
Paleoecology Perspectives for Planetary Health
Authors: Bayles Brett R.
Published: January 2025

Insights from the field of paleoecology can be integrated into the planetary health framework to improve our understanding of global environmental change.
Underrepresentation of Women in Universities: Seeking Answers in the Bedrooms of Women Academics
Authors: Rodríguez‐Jaume María José , Torres Díaz María Concepción , Carretón‐Ballester Carmen , Gil‐González Diana
Published: January 2025

Three decades after the implementation of gender equality policies in Europe, women academics continue to languish in the ivory basements of higher education centers. A growing body of literature on the participation of women academics in universities has identified reproductive work as a factor that may explain their low levels of representation. Recent research on the effects of COVID‐19 on academic work has shed light on the impact of this “private matter” on the lives and academic careers of women and on the scientific system. The central role of reproductive work, in which it is assumed that women and men participate unequally in the care and attention to children, excludes other “private matters” that may help explain the underrepresentation of women in higher education institutions. Here, through the narrative reflection of a female academic who, for over a decade, held a high position at her university, we share the “private matter” that ultimately led to her divorce. By introducing women's voices into the debate on their underrepresentation in universities, we provide a way to recognize ways in which culture “does gender” and to raise awareness about forms of gender that, although silenced, shape our lives (gender in disguise). This autobiographical story identifies four themes that challenge power structures through recognizing silenced stories and promoting honest discussion about the true barriers and failures that persist in universities: the maternal ideal, the retraditionalization of gender, postfeminist “we can have it all” rhetoric, and the shame and fear faced by female academics.
Understanding how and why users might use NHS repositories: A mixed methods study
Authors: Holland Matt , Rawson Beth
Published: January 2025

Background

There is little evidence on the use or potential use of NHS repositories within the UK.

Methods

A mixed methods (quantitative/qualitative) study of two repositories: amber—the home of ambulance service research, and East Midlands Evidence Repository (EMER). A structured online questionnaire was distributed via the repository home page, and promoted via social media, email networks, and lists. Next, three research leaders were interviewed in person online (see Appendix , supporting information). Transcripts of the recorded interviews were summarised using ChatGPT 3.5.

Results

From the 148 questionnaire responses, 38% of respondents had used an NHS repository. Librarian activities were key to encouraging repository use (that is, searching and depositing materials). ResearchGate was the most widely used alternative. Perceived benefits of using repositories included open access to materials, and knowledge sharing with colleagues. Users generally did not know the deposit process, and over 50% of respondents were unaware of Green Open Access.

Discussion

Building greater awareness, and institutional support is key to increasing repository usage. Marketing activities and educating researchers about the benefits of engaging with the repository are fundamental.

Conclusion

NHS librarians need to market NHS repositories using principles of knowledge management and ensure that the grey literature of research and evaluation reports in repositories is better used.
Point‐of‐care nucleic acid testing – a step forward in controlling the HIV epidemic: A review
Authors: Pinar Suleyman Sarp , Manak Mark , Saravanan Shanmugam , Imami Nesrina , Kibirige Catherine
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The HIV/AIDS epidemic, with 85.6 million infections and 40.4 million AIDS‐related deaths globally, remains a critical public health challenge. Current diagnostic methods, primarily fourth‐generation immunoassays, have limitations due to their long window periods, and most viral load assays require centralized testing protocols that result in delays, especially in remote regions.

Nucleic Acid Testing

Point‐of‐care (POC) nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) presents a transformative approach by reducing the window period for detection to one week and significantly shortening turnaround times for viral load monitoring.

Discussion

This review highlights the clinical utility of POC NAAT for acute HIV infection diagnosis, its role in timely combination antiretroviral therapy adjustments, and its potential to reduce the basic reproduction number (R0), a critical threshold for suppressing the epidemic.

Conclusion

By improving early detection and facilitating faster clinical decisions, POC NAAT enhances the effectiveness of HIV prevention and treatment programmes, particularly in high‐risk and remote communities, and supports the global effort to achieve the ambitious UNAIDS 95‐95‐95 targets.
Water Stress Indices as Indicators of Silage Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] Productivity Under Drought Conditions
Authors: Gokkus Mualla Keten , Tanriverdi Cagatay , Degirmenci Hasan
Published: January 2025

Silage soybeans subjected to water stress show symptoms as if it had been subjected to drought stress due to lack of rainfall. Understanding how water stress impacts crop yield is crucial for developing effective irrigation strategies in drought‐inclined areas. This study investigates the relationship between silage soybean forage yield and water stress indices, specifically the Crop Water Stress Index (CWSI) and the Water Deficit Index (WDI). In addition, water‐yield relations were also determined. The study was carried out in a randomised complete block design with four irrigation levels (S100, S75, S50, S25), three replications, and a period of 2 years. At the end of the study, crop evapotranspiration (ET), irrigation (I), water use efficiency (WUE) and forage yield decreased as irrigation water levels were reduced from S100 to S25. ET was found to be between 501 and 755 mm, WUE was found to be between 2.61 and 3.58 kg m−3, irrigation water use efficiency was found to be between 2.53 and 2.97 kg m−3, forage yield was found to be between 15.4 and 26.2 t ha−1, WDI varied between 0.16 and 0.5, and CWSI ranged between 0.34 and 0.90. The results revealed that silage soybean should be irrigated when the average CWSI value is nearly 0.36 and the average WDI value is nearly 0.26 for high yield. The rate of decrease in forage yield from S100 to S25 was compared with the rate of increase in WDI and CWSI. In the first year of the study, there was a 45% decrease in forage yield between S100 and S25, while CWSI increased by 65%. However, this situation was 40% in WDI. In the second year of the study, there was a 38% decrease in forage yield from S100 to S25, while CWSI increased by 33% and WDI increased by 26%. The relationship between forage yield and stress indices is inversely proportional. The fact that the values in CWSI were proportionally higher than WDI suggested that the calculations were made without taking into account the soil temperatures during the measurement. Water stress indices were correlated with forage yield and regression analysis was performed. Although relations of forage yield and water stress indices showed slightly higher correlations with WDI, this could not strongly suggest that WDI was more accurate than CWSI. In order to obtain clearer results in the comparison studies of water stress indices, it is recommended to carry out studies with different varieties for more than 2 years.
Advanced Practice Nurses' Evidence‐Based Healthcare Competence and Associated Factors in Finland and Singapore—A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Ylimäki Saija , Oikarinen Anne , Tuomikoski Anna‐Maria , Woo Brigitte , Mikkonen Kristina , Zhou Wentao , Parisod Heidi , Sneck Sami , Vähänikkilä Hannu , Kääriäinen Maria
Published: January 2025

Aim

To describe and compare the Evidence‐Based HealthCare (EBHC) competence of Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), and the factors associated with it in Finland and Singapore.

Design

A descriptive and analytical cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Data were collected from APNs working in healthcare in Finland (n = 157) or Singapore (n = 99) between May 2023 and October 2023 using a self‐assessment instrument to measure EBHC competence (EBHC‐Comp‐APN) and an EBHC knowledge test. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, K‐mean cluster and multivariate analyses.

Results

The self‐assessments of APNs working in Finland and Singapore regarding their EBHC competence level varied and three distinct profiles of APNs' EBHC competence were identified in both countries. The strongest EBHC competence was in ‘The Knowledge Needs Related to Global Health’, while the weakest in ‘Evidence Synthesis and Transfer’. The country‐specific differences were identified in factors associated with EBHC competence.

Conclusion

The EBHC competencies of APNs vary widely and require planned and needs‐driven development. In connection with the development of EBHC competence, the factors related to competence should be considered country‐by‐country.

Implications for the Profession

The APN's EBHC competence should be systematically developed considering the factors associated with and the current level of EBHC competence.

Impact

The level of EBHC competence of APNs and associated factors should be identified when developing their competence and role in collaboration with APNs, leaders of healthcare and education organisations and policy makers. In addition, research into APNs' EBHC competence should continue.

Reporting Method

The STROBE checklist was used in the reporting of the study.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Participatory Action Research to Enhance Patient‐Centred Goal Setting in Geriatric Rehabilitation: A Nursing Team's Quest
Authors: Vaalburg Anne Marie , Wattel Elizabeth M. , Boersma Petra , Hertogh Cees M. P. M. , Gobbens Robbert J. J.
Published: January 2025

Aim

The aim of this study was to provide insights into how, through exploring goal‐setting interventions, a nursing team in geriatric rehabilitation might refine their patient‐centred strategies.

Design

The study design was participatory action research (PAR).

Method

Team members and nursing students, under the guidance of a facilitator, performed two PAR cycles. In the first cycle, the action phase consisted of preparing a multidisciplinary team meeting (MTM) with a patient. In the second cycle, based on the evaluation of the first, the participants worked with goals on a whiteboard in the patient's room. The data were collected in The Netherlands between February 2020 and June 2022. The data collection methods included the facilitator's logbook, observations, (group) interviews, charting activities and short surveys. Data analysis was conducted in weekly team sessions. The Guidelines for Best Practices in the Reporting of Participatory Action Research were followed.

Results

In the first PAR cycle, the team learned that preparing an MTM with a patient did not enhance the patient's engagement in achieving their rehabilitation goals, but it was beneficial for the nurses' intermediate role between the patient and the multidisciplinary team. Clarity about responsibilities in the multidisciplinary team was a prerequisite for nurses to take on this role adequately. In the second PAR cycle, it became clear that working with a whiteboard in the patient's room had a positive effect on the patient's engagement in the rehabilitation process, and the nurses gained knowledge about a broader variety of professional rehabilitation domains.

Conclusion

Through PAR, the nursing team learned two lessons: cooperating with patients through MTM preparation and working with whiteboards enhanced their patient‐centredness, but patients needed tangible goals to become engaged in their rehabilitation planning.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

Prepare the multidisciplinary team meeting with the patient, as discussing rehabilitation goals can indirectly boost motivation by making older patients feel seen and heard, even if they seem unable to fully participate in the conversation.

Clarify responsibilities in the multidisciplinary geriatric rehabilitation team. This is a prerequisite for nurses to take on an advocacy role for patients in multidisciplinary team meetings.

To enhance patient‐centred care, consider working with tangible goals on a whiteboard in the patient's room.

Patient and Public Contribution

No public and patient involvement.
Diagnostic and Prognostic Accuracy of MiRNAs in Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hasani Fatemeh , Masrour Mahdi , Khamaki Sina , Jazi Kimia , Hosseini Saba , Heidarpour Hadiseh , Namazee Mehrad
Published: January 2025

Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains a significant contributor to global cancer mortality, with limited effective diagnostic and prognostic tools. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as promising biomarkers for PC diagnosis and prognosis. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Studies reporting sensitivity, specificity or area under the curve (AUC) for miRNAs in PC diagnosis, as well as hazard ratios (HRs) for survival evaluations, were included. Data extraction and quality assessment followed PRISMA guidelines. Meta‐analyses were conducted using appropriate statistical methods. The protocol is registered in PROSPERO. Diagnostic analysis included 290 evaluations, revealing an overall AUC of 0.8226 for PC diagnosis. Subgroup analyses showed varying accuracies, with blood and tissue specimens yielding higher AUC values. Promising miRNAs with AUC values above 0.8 included miR‐320, miR‐1290, miR‐93, miR‐25, miR‐451, miR‐20, miR‐21, miR‐223 and miR‐122. Prognostic analysis encompassed 46 studies, indicating significant associations between miRNA expression and overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). The combined HR for studies reporting OS HRs higher than one was 1.7613 (95% CI: 1.5394–2.0152, p < 0.0001; I2 = 81.7%). Notable miRNAs with prognostic significance included miR‐10, miR‐21 and miR‐221. Studies reporting OS HRs less than one had a pooled HR of 0.6805 (95% CI: 0.5862–0.7901, p < 0.0001; I2 = 65.4%). MiRNAs hold promise as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for PC. Blood and tissue specimens offer superior diagnostic accuracy, and several miRNAs show potential for predicting patient outcomes.
Impact of maternal overweight/obesity and high fasting plasma glucose on adverse perinatal outcomes in early gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Iwama Noriyuki , Yokoyama Maki , Yamashita Hiroshi , Miyakoshi Kei , Yasuhi Ichiro , Kawasaki Maki , Arata Naoko , Sato Shiori , Iimura Yuko , Masako Waguri , Kawaguchi Haruna , Masaoka Naoki , Nakajima Yoshiyuki , Hiramatsu Yuji , Sugiyama Takashi ,   DREAMBee Study Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Group
Published: January 2025

Aim

To elucidate risk factors associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in early‐gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Materials and Methods

A dataset of 385 early‐GDM cases from a prospective cohort was analyzed. Early‐GDM was diagnosed if one or more of the following criteria were met: fasting plasma glucose (PG) levels of 92–125 mg/dL, 1‐h PG levels ≥180 mg/dL, and 2‐h PG levels ≥153 mg/dL during a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test before 20 weeks of gestation. Multivariate analysis was used to examine associations between candidate risk factors and a composite outcome of maternal and neonatal adverse events.

Results

Pre‐pregnancy overweight/obesity (pre‐pregnancy body mass index [BMI] ≥25.0 kg/m2) was significantly associated with a higher risk of the composite outcome compared with normal weight (pre‐pregnancy BMI of 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), an adjusted risk ratio (aRR) of 1.44 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.08–1.93), and an adjusted risk difference (aRD) of 13.6% (95% CI: 2.6–24.6%). Compared with fasting PG levels below 92 mg/dL, levels between 95 and 125 mg/dL were associated with a significantly higher risk of the composite outcome, with an aRR and aRD of 1.42 (95% CI: 1.01–1.99) and 12.9% (95% CI: 0.3–25.5%), respectively.

Conclusions

Early‐GDM, combined with pre‐pregnancy overweight/obesity and/or fasting PG levels of 95–125 mg/dL, is associated with a higher risk of adverse perinatal outcomes and should be prioritized for intervention.
Class Dynamics at the Margins: Capitalist Relations Among Shea Nut Collectors in Burkina Faso and Ghana
Authors: Questiaux Francois , Pouliot Mariève
Published: January 2025

In recent decades, the increasing international demand for shea nuts has resulted in changes to the livelihoods of women collecting and processing these nuts in West Africa. Market integration of shea nut collectors affects social dynamics as capitalist relations and significant income differences among the collectors emerge. Using survey data, we establish a typology to describe shea nut collectors, based on the financial capital that they invest in shea and their other sources of income. We show that a small group of collector‐traders is able to benefit from the shea boom through the sale of shea nuts purchased from other collectors at a lower price. Conversely, a larger group of dedicated and diversified collectors are compelled to sell their nuts at a low price for their subsistence. This interdependence highlights capitalist relations, income gaps and social differentiation among the collectors. This process intersects with gendered access to ownership and income control. Our analysis challenges common assumptions about the potential of market integration to achieve win–win scenario and shows that unequal development is constitutive of such approaches. Despite the limited role of shea nut collection in household income, we argue that the social differentiation at play shares similarities with that observed for cash crops in other cases of agrarian change. We conclude by highlighting that shea nut collectors need to be perceived as a heterogeneous group, navigating the intricacies of capitalist market integration with different interests and opportunities.
Beyond Survival: Unveiling Psychological and Social Adaptation After Visceral Transplantation
Authors: Brantmark Anna , Forsberg Anna , Lennerling Annette , Herlenius Gustaf , Engström My
Published: January 2025

Aim

To explore the meaning of adaptation after visceral transplantation in terms of patient experiences, symptoms, self‐efficacy, transplant‐specific and mental well‐being.

Design

A convergent parallel mixed‐methods study, consisting of interviews and generic as well as transplant‐specific questionnaires. Results were integrated using meta‐inference.

Methods

The study comprises a population of 17 visceral transplant recipients in Scandinavia, 12 women and 5 men with a mean age of 40.6 years (range 19–63 years) and an average follow‐up of 9.4 years (range 0–25 years). Data were collected between May 2023 and January 2024 through open‐ended in‐depth interviews with 12 participants and analysed in accordance with phenomenological hermeneutics. Questionnaires from all 17 participants were analysed to measure transplant‐specific well‐being, symptoms, self‐efficacy as well as anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Results

Being a visceral transplant recipient is a dynamic and life‐long adaptation process that comprises two distinct yet interconnected trajectories: coherence and endurance. Coherence involves the person's ability to make sense of their situation and find meaning despite the challenges and adversity of the chronic condition. In contrast, endurance involves a person's capacity to withstand hardship and endure unpleasant or difficult experiences. Both trajectories interact dynamically, influencing and reinforcing each other. Resilience based on coherence enabled acceptance and adjustment. Conversely, uncertainty, resignation and feeling unsupported resulted in a lack of acceptance, manifested as resistance. The challenge involved in adaptation was demonstrated by 47% showing borderline elevated or elevated levels of anxiety and 18% reporting symptoms of depression. Self‐efficacy varied considerably.

Conclusion

The meaning of adaptation after visceral transplantation in terms of experiences, symptoms, transplant‐specific and mental well‐being is balancing between coherence and endurance facilitated by acceptance and hampered by resistance. The uncertainty inherent in being a visceral transplant recipient may lead to heightened self‐rated anxiety symptoms and diminished self‐efficacy.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

What problem did the study adress?

This study adresses the challenges involved in being a visceral transplant recipient and adapting to life after a visceral transplantation.

What were the main findings?

Reporting Method

COREQ checklist (consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research).

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution was organised.
Patient Performance of Care Tasks During Acute Hospitalisation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kurtz Chava , Tonkikh Orly , Spitzer Sivan , Shadmi Efrat
Published: January 2025

Background

Patient self‐care is established as improving outcomes, yet acute care in hospitals is provided such that patients tend to be passive recipients of care. Little is known about the extent and type of patient participation in treatment care tasks in acute hospital settings.

Aims

To map and synthesise available literature on self‐performance of care tasks in acute hospital settings.

Design

A scoping review was conducted guided by JBI methodology.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in July 2021 and updated in March 2024 across five databases: Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, Embase and Web of Science. Studies were screened using predefined eligibility criteria. Full‐text screening and data extraction were performed independently by two researchers. Data were collected using a template specifically designed for this review. Reporting followed the PRISMA‐ScR guideline.

Results

Of the 31,361 articles identified, 35 were included. Most of the articles were experimental (n = 20) and conducted in Europe (n = 13), North America (n = 10) and Australia (n = 3). Studies were classified according to investigation of the performance of care tasks (n = 6) or of the outcomes of the performance of the self‐care task (n = 29).

Most tasks performed involved self‐administration of medication (n = 31), only 4 articles referred to other care tasks. Most articles focused on acute tasks (n = 18), while 15 articles referred to chronic care tasks. Ostomy self‐care (n = 2) was a separate category, being an acute task that continued into chronic self‐care.

Conclusion

Performance of care tasks by patients in acute care settings are predominantly related to chronic and pain medication administration.

Implications for Care

Patient preferences and competency to self‐perform care tasks during hospitalisation should be assessed and monitored and supported accordingly. Utilising hospitalisation time to observe and assess self‐care practices could provide additional teaching opportunities to patient self‐care and improve overall care continuity.

Reporting Method

The PRISMA‐ScR guideline was followed.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Trial and Protocol Registration

This review was registered on Open Science Framework before running the final search: (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/D8KS2).
Designing Stress Scenarios
Authors: PARLATORE CECILIA , PHILIPPON THOMAS
Published: January 2025

We study the optimal design of stress scenarios. A principal manages the unknown risk exposures of agents by asking them to report losses under hypothetical scenarios before taking remedial actions. We apply a Kalman filter to solve the learning problem, and we relate the optimal design to the risk environment, the principal's preferences, and available interventions. In a banking context, optimal capital requirements cover losses under an adverse scenario, while targeted interventions depend on covariances among residual exposures and systematic risks. Our calibration reveals that information is particularly valuable for targeted interventions as opposed to broad capital requirements.
Surface Electromyographic Activities of Submental and Infrahyoid Muscles: Comparisons Based on Residue, Penetration and Aspiration
Authors: Gölaç Hakan , Atalık Güzide , Gülaçtı Adnan , Cebeci Süleyman , Şansal Ebru , Ceylan Banu Tijen , Gündüz Bülent , Yılmaz Metin
Published: January 2025

Background

Surface electromyography (sEMG) has been used in a wide range of studies conducted in the field of dysphagia.

Objectives

The main aim of this case–control study is to obtain how submental and infrahyoid sEMG signals differ based on residue, penetration and aspiration.

Methods

A total of 100 participants (50 patients with suspected dysphagia and 50 healthy controls) were enrolled in the present study. Participants with suspected dysphagia underwent a detailed fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) to observe the efficiency and safety of swallowing using the Yale Pharyngeal Residue Severity Rating Scale (YPRSRS) and the Penetration–Aspiration Scale (PAS), respectively. Afterward, sEMG parameters, including submental muscle activity duration (SMM‐AD), infrahyoid muscle activity duration (IM‐AD), amplitude of submental muscles (A‐SMM) and amplitude of infrahyoid muscles (A‐IM) were obtained during three consecutive dry swallows from all study cohorts.

Results

There were significantly higher SMM‐AD values in patients with a YPRSRS score of 1–2 and a YPRSRS score of 3–5 for residue in vallecula compared to the controls (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). Both subgroups of patients with a YPRSRS score of 1–2 and a YPRSRS score of 3–5 for residue in piriforms showed significantly higher SMM‐AD values compared to the controls (p < 0.001 and p = 0.048, respectively). The same prolongation of SMM‐AD was also evident for the patients with airway invasion (penetration or aspiration) compared to the controls (p = 0.042 and p < 0.001, respectively). The other measured sEMG parameters (IM‐AD, A‐SMM and A‐IM) did not differ significantly based on FEES outcomes (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Since the availability of instrumental swallowing assessment methods in clinical practice is quite challenging, specific sEMG parameters may be useful to predict possible residue, penetration, or aspiration events in patients with dysphagia. SMM‐AD can be considered as a first‐line assessment parameter for possible residue, penetration, and aspiration events before referring patients for further instrumental methods.
Oral Functions and Various Cooking Methods Associated With Chewing‐To‐Swallowing Time in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Lin P. C. , Huang C. H. , Wu J. H. , Lin Y. C. , Matsuo Koichiro , Huang H. L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Oral frailty in older adults can affect their eating efficiency, prolonging meal times, which can compromise food flavour.

Objective

This study explored the association between cooking methods and chewing‐to‐swallowing time on the basis of different oral functions in older adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study involved 65 community‐dwelling individuals aged ≥ 65 years. Chewing‐to‐swallowing time was measured as participants tested the textures of two ingredients—chicken breast and baby Chinese cabbage—prepared using four cooking methods (boiling, sous vide, confit and high‐pressure). Oral frailty was determined by the following items: tooth count, bite force, saliva secretion rate, swallowing, tongue‐lip motor function and oral hygiene. Regression models analysed the correlation between cooking methods and chewing‐to‐swallowing time under various oral functions.

Results

No differences in chewing‐to‐swallowing time were found for chicken prepared using the various cooking methods among older adults with oral frailty (all p > 0.05). However, for older adults without oral frailty had a shorter chewing‐to‐swallowing time for both sous vide (β = −1.06, p < 0.001) and confit chicken (β = −1.79, p = 0.003) than for boiled chicken. For older adults with oral frailty had a shorter chewing‐to‐swallowing time for sous vide (β = −0.06, p < 0.001) and high‐pressure methods (β = −1.16, p < 0.001) than for boiled vegetable. For older adults without oral frailty had a shorter chewing‐to‐swallowing time for high‐pressure methods (β = −0.83, p < 0.001) than for boiled vegetable.

Conclusion

Under different oral functional conditions, cooking methods are associated with the chewing and swallowing times of older adults.
Beyond the mouth: An overview of obstructive sleep apnea in adults for dentists
Authors: Cacho Valerie
Published: January 2025

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common and complex medical sleep condition in adults that is associated with chronic medical and mental health conditions. Left undiagnosed and untreated it can decrease quality of life and increase morbidity and mortality. Dentists are at the forefront for screening OSA in their role to maintain the health of the oral cavity. Clinical experience in the management of OSA in dentists is limited. The aim of this article is to provide dentists with foundational knowledge about OSA to empower them to play an active role in the care management of screening and treating OSA.