bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Participant Characteristics and Scores in Hypertension Using Multi-Attribute Utility Theory Analysis on Hypertension Patients from Pakistan
Authors: Rauf Sania , Nuryunarsih Desy , Pujiastuti Heni , Zaidan Mahija , Herawati Lucky , Okatiranti Okatiranti , Arshad Abida , Raza Rizvi Syed Shakeel
Published: July 2024

Background and aim Hypertension (HTN) is a significant public health concern worldwide, affecting approximately a third of people during their lifetimes. There are many factors that influence people with HTN to develop cardiovascular disease, such as lifestyle, genetics, economics, overall health, and medications; the authors did not find any previous study employing Multi-Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) analysis using machine learning. There is a sense of urgency to understand the characteristics of HTN patients in Pakistan; by using MAUT to analyze and evaluate different factors related to developing HTN, we can gain valuable insights into the characteristics of HTN and cardiovascular HTN (HTN-CVD) patients in Pakistan. Methods and results This study utilized a cross-sectional survey with 98 participants diagnosed with HTN and HTN-CVD. The questionnaire included sociodemographic items, symptoms, heredity factors, and dietary habits. The study was approved by the Research Ethical Committees of Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR), Pakistan. The result shows that there is a wide difference between HTN and HTN-CVD patients’ scores for symptoms (37% vs. 63%) and economic status (39% vs. 61%) (respectively). Other than these, the attribute proportions of scores for HTN and HTN-CVD are almost the same. The highest MAUT scores were higher for patients with HTN-CVD (373) than for those with HTN alone (270), and the mean age of HTN patients is higher than HTN-CVD; almost all attributes’ groups of the 10 highest MAUT scores of HTN-CVD higher than HTN patients except for attribute of medication status. Conclusion Patients with HTN-CVD complications have higher MAUT scores for lifestyle, social status, health status, and economic status. This emphasizes the importance of educating patients (and indeed the general public) about risks, symptoms, and adopting healthy behaviors.
Leisure-Based Interventions in Adults with Schizophrenia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Nishad Amar , Mysore Nagaraj Anil Kumar , R Rao Chythra , P Keshavaram , Rajpaul Priyanka
Published: July 2024

Background Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness characterized by psychosis, apathy, social withdrawal, and cognitive impairment, which results in impaired functioning in work, school, parenting, self-care, independent living, interpersonal relationships, and leisure time. Method A systematic search was conducted using Arksey and O’Malley’s framework with studies published on leisure-based intervention from January 1990 to December 2023. Results The review included 11 articles in the study. In total two studies were pilot interventional study, one randomized controlled study, one case-control, one retrospective study, three were cross sectional, one was cross sectional longitudinal study and two were qualitative in nature. Studies used different types of leisure activities like cooking group, discussions, board games, arts and craft, painting, beading, sewing, clay work, paper craft, etc were used as an intervention. Qualitative studies found that individuals with schizophrenia spent less time in social and leisure activities and more time relaxing and doing nothing. Conclusion The study highlights the need to conduct further research on leisure-based interventions using various study designs like randomized controlled trials and mixed methods to understand its effectiveness among individuals with schizophrenia.
Estimating the efficacy of Newborn-Communication, Health, Feeding and Swallowing Education Program (N-CHFSEP) for primiparous mothers
Authors: Ouseph Deepthi , Kanthila Jayashree , Baliga Sunil , Shetty Shraddha , Karuppali Sudhin
Published: July 2024

Background Primiparous mothers face diverse challenges during pregnancy and post-childbirth. There is a lack of comprehensive educational programs for primiparous mothers on maternal functioning and newborn care. This study aimed to explore the efficacy of a developed educational program on the attitude of primiparous mothers towards newborn communication, general health, feeding and swallowing. The objectives were (1) to develop an attitude questionnaire (AQ), a parent education program, and a feedback questionnaire (FQ); and (2) to estimate the efficacy of the education program pre- and post-delivery. Methods Ninety-eight primiparous mothers without any obstetric history, proficient in English or Kannada, and delivering healthy newborns were recruited for the study. Phase 1 involved the development and validation of AQ, the parent education program [Newborn Communication, Health, Feeding and Swallowing Education Program (N-CHFSEP)], and FQ; while Phase 2 comprised of administering them on the mothers. Both quantitative (descriptive statistics, paired t-test, and chi-square test) and qualitative analysis were done on the parameters of interest. Results The results of the study demonstrated a notable increase in the number of mothers (not all) reporting heightened confidence levels following receiving the N-CHFSEP (which was observed in all the domains). This observed change (pre and post) was statistically significant as per paired t-test analysis (p <0.05) indicating a significant increase in confidence levels post-N-CHFSEP intervention, as well as recognizing warning signs related to the same. Sociodemographic factors such as age, education, occupation, and family type were reported to have a significant effect (p <0.05) on maternal confidence levels before and after N-CHFSEP administration. Feedback from participants highlighted the effectiveness of the program in enhancing knowledge and awareness, while also suggesting areas for improvement. Conclusions This study demonstrates the effectiveness of N-CHFSEP in enhancing primiparous mothers' confidence in newborn care, thereby improving maternal and infant health.
Alternative dispute resolution: Mediation as a model
Authors: Sherman Naser , Momani Bashar Talal
Published: July 2024

Background The topic of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in civil and commercial contexts presents a contemporary legal challenge aimed at fostering equitable solutions. Among ADR methods, mediation stands out for its ability to reduce time, costs, and litigation duration. This study explores the conceptual framework, essential conditions, and procedural aspects of mediation. It evaluates the sufficiency, regulation, and effectiveness of mediation principles in conflict resolution and risk mitigation. Methods This study is conducted through a comprehensive review of current literature on Alternative Dispute Resolution methods, with a particular focus on mediation as an alternative to dispute settlement. The study utilizes qualitative analysis techniques to examine the effectiveness of mediation principles and their application in resolving civil and commercial disputes. Comparative analyses are also conducted to extract useful insights from various legal systems and authorities. Results The study provides an analysis that illustrates the effectiveness of mediation in resolving disputes, emphasizing its potential benefits in terms of time and cost savings, as well as its srole in facilitating amicable resolutions. The results of this study shall contribute to the current body of knowledge on mediation and provide practical recommendations for its application in diverse legal contexts. Conclusion In conclusion, the study proposes strategies to enhance mediation practices, promote a culture of its adoption, and integrate it more closely into the judicial system. Additionally, it anticipates the future effectiveness of mediation in jurisdictions lacking comprehensive legislation, drawing from successful Western experiences to guide potential developments in Arab legal frameworks.
Occurrence of pathogenic Candida species in artisanal cheeses from Boyacá, Colombia, including fluconazole resistant isolates
Authors: Sánchez Quitian Zilpa Adriana , Pérez Rozo Guisell Mariana , Firacative Carolina
Published: July 2024

Yeasts are widely known for their application in food production, but also because of their clinical significance. As human pathogens, several species of yeasts, mainly of the genus Candida, are responsible for a great number of life-threatening infections. The occurrence of yeasts in cheeses, including pathogenic species, has been largely studied, yet the antifungal susceptibility of these microorganisms is rarely reported. Here, we identified the species and determined the antifungal susceptibility profile of 45 Candida isolates recovered from artisanal cheeses from 20 cities in Boyacá, Colombia. Among the species, Candida lambica (28.9%) prevailed, followed by Candida krusei (24.4%), Candida kefyr (22.2%), Candida lusitaniae (11.1%), Candida inconspicua (6.7%) Candida parapsilosis (4.4%) and Candida guillermondii (2.2%). Notably, all seven species have been globally reported, to a greater or lesser extent, to cause fungemia and other invasive infections with high mortality rates. Remarkably, most isolates of C. lambica C. krusei, C. inconspicua and C. parapsilosis were resistant to fluconazole, one of the most common drugs to treat candidiasis. Our findings highlight the importance of exploring the ecological niches of pathogenic yeasts, together with their antifungal susceptibility, considering that the emergence of resistance in non-commensal opportunistic pathogens poses a serious threat to public health.
Case Report: Photobiomodulation improves shoulder functionality after acute traumatic anterior dislocation associated with Hill-Sachs bone lesion’
Authors: Teresa de Siqueira Rosani , Claudio de Freitas Luiz , Durigon Thomas Stravinskas , Motta Lara Jansiski , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini , Mesquita-Ferrari Raquel Agnelli , Júnior Aldo Brugnera , Fernandes Kristianne Porta Santos , Duran Cinthya Cosme Gutierrez
Published: July 2024

Photobiomodulation (PBM) has demonstrated positive effects on bone healing after fracture. This case report describes a skateboard-related shoulder anterior dislocation with Bankart and Hill-Sachs lesions. After a non-invasive reduction, the patient received conservative treatment with PBM. PBM was started on the accident day and continued daily for 30 days, followed by bi-weekly irradiation for 33 months. In the initial 30 days, the patient’s pain decreased, and the shoulder function was recovered with no pain, swelling, or bruising. On day 28, there was a reduction in edema compared to the initial injury and a full shoulder recovery for daily and sports activities. Physical examinations confirmed shoulder joint stability and the images at 33 months demonstrated Hill-Sachs lesion healing and significant Bankart lesion repair. In conclusion, PBM can induce recovery, alleviate pain, and facilitate functional rehabilitation. Additional clinical trials are required to validate the efficacy of this complementary therapy.
Tuberculosis Case Finding Using Self-Assessment Paradigm Through the E-TIBI Application in HIV Patients
Authors: Triyono Erwin Astha , Arini Merita , Tan Feriawan , Masyfufah Lilis
Published: July 2024

Background The goal of eliminating tuberculosis has not yet shown a bright spot. Specifically for HIV patients (PLHIV), WHO has made it a special category as a pillar for eliminating tuberculosis. The tuberculosis screening has not yet reached the national target because it is carried out manually by health workers, requiring optimization following technological developments. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of tuberculosis case finding using a self-assessment paradigm in HIV patients. Methods This research was cross-sectional. The data obtained from HIV patients before and after using the E-TIBI application for 3 months each was analyzed using the compare mean independent t-test. Then the Chi-squared test was carried out on the E-TIBI screening characteristic variables. Result In total, there were 921 respondents with 148 (16%) presumptive TB. It was found that there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the number of presumptive TB cases found in HIV patients before and after using the E-TIBI application. The person with presumptive TB showed 20 of 24 characteristic variables that were statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion E-TIBI can increase the tuberculosis case finding in HIV patients so it has the potential to be implemented as a screening tool in the PLHIV community.
Integrated Management of Hazardous Solid Waste in Dental Offices of Talara (Peru) and Machala (Ecuador): A Policy Brief Comparing Two Latin American Countries
Authors: Cruz Ramos María Elizabet , Salvatierra Chuquimarca Jeiner Javier , Orrego-Ferreyros Luis Alexander
Published: July 2024

Background The improper management of hazardous solid waste in dental care offices poses significant risks to public health and the environment. Dental offices generate hazardous waste, including biological and chemical contaminants, which can lead to infections, pollution, and harm if not managed properly. Effective waste management practices are crucial, yet compliance varies significantly across regions, especially in Latin America, due to limited resources, inadequate training, and insufficient infrastructure. This study compares hazardous waste management practices in dental offices in Talara, Peru, and Machala, Ecuador, to provide actionable recommendations for improvement. Policy and Implications In Peru, hazardous waste management involves critical steps such as conditioning, segregation, transport, storage, treatment, and disposal. Compliance minimizes exposure risks and environmental contamination. Ecuador emphasizes administrative and operational aspects, including policies, records, training, and procedures. Improving practices in both countries can model enhanced waste management across Latin America. Recommendations To address challenges in Talara and similar Latin American cities, it is essential to strengthen administrative systems, increase budget allocations for waste management, and develop comprehensive training programs. Waste management should be prioritized within public policy agendas with clear guidelines and accountability measures. Both cities need improved resource allocation, modern waste treatment facilities, and centralized storage solutions. Continuous education and certification programs are crucial. Implementing integrated policies, regular reviews, and robust compliance mechanisms based on Machala’s practices can benefit other regions. Public awareness campaigns and regional collaboration through workshops and research initiatives are also recommended. Conclusions Significant disparities in hazardous waste management exist between Talara and Machala. Talara requires strengthened systems and improved infrastructure, while Machala’s practices serve as a model. Tailored interventions can enhance public health and environmental outcomes across Latin America. Regular monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration are essential for sustained improvements.
A Pharmacist Perspective on Optimizing Pharmacotherapy among Older Adults – A Review
Authors: Manirajan Priya , Sivanandy Palanisamy
Published: July 2024

Multimorbidity and the associated consumption of multiple medications are common among the older population, posing a significant health concern. This leads to an increased incidence of side effects, adverse drug reactions, and higher healthcare costs for the individual, their family, and the country’s overall healthcare expenditure. Older adults experience complications due to the natural aging process and polypharmacy. The pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variables of medications play a crucial role in their recovery and overall health. While many studies have highlighted the rising incidence of multimorbidity among older adults, they often overlook the importance of optimizing medication therapy to reduce complications, side effects, adverse drug reactions, falls, and improve medication adherence. This narrative review focuses on the impact of polypharmacy on older adults, age-related pharmacokinetic changes, pharmacodynamics in this population, and various methods to optimize pharmacotherapy. The findings of this review aim to provide healthcare providers with a better understanding of how to optimize pharmacotherapies and reduce drug-related complications in older adults.
A guide to selecting high-performing antibodies for CSNK2A1 (UniProt ID: P68400) for use in western blot, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence
Authors: Ayoubi Riham , Fotouhi Maryam , Alende Charles , Ruíz Moleón Vera , Southern Kathleen , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS/EDDU collaborative group,   ABIF consortium
Published: July 2024

Casein kinase II subunit alpha (CSNK2A1), a serine/threonine kinase, phosphorylates multiple protein substrates and is involved in diverse cellular and biological processes. Implicated in various human diseases, high-performing antibodies would help evaluate its potential as a therapeutic target and benefit the scientific community. In this study, we have characterized ten CSNK2A1 commercial antibodies for western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. These studies are part of a larger, collaborative initiative seeking to address antibody reproducibility issues by characterizing commercially available antibodies for human proteins and publishing the results openly as a resource for the scientific community. While use of antibodies and protocols vary between laboratories, we encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibodies for their specific needs.
A guide to selecting high-performing antibodies for S1PR1 (UniProt ID: P21453) for use in western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence
Authors: Ayoubi Riham , Fotouhi Maryam , Alende Charles , González Bolívar Sara , Southern Kathleen , Laflamme Carl ,   NeuroSGC/YCharOS/EDDU collaborative group,   ABIF consortium
Published: July 2024

Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) is a G-coupled protein receptor that induces crucial biological processes when bound by sphingosine 1-phosphate. Here, we have characterized nine S1PR1 commercial antibodies for western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence using a standardized experimental protocol based on comparing read-outs in knockout cell lines and isogenic parental controls. These studies are part of a larger, collaborative initiative seeking to address antibody reproducibility issues by characterizing commercially available antibodies for human proteins and publishing the results openly as a resource for the scientific community. While use of antibodies and protocols vary between laboratories, we encourage readers to use this report as a guide to select the most appropriate antibodies for their specific needs.
ESforRPD2: Expert System for Rice Plant Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Agus Fahrul , Ihsan Muh. , Marisa Khairina Dyna , Candra Krishna Purnawan
Published: July 2024

One of the factors causing rice production disturbance in Indonesia is that farmers lack knowledge of early symptoms of rice plant diseases. These diseases are increasingly rampant because of the lack of experts. This study aimed to overcome this problem by providing an Expert System that helps farmers to make an early diagnosis of rice plant diseases. Data of rice plant pests and diseases in 2016 were taken from Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia using an in-depth survey, and rice experts from the Department of Food Crops and Horticulture of East Kalimantan Province were recruited for the project. The Expert System for Rice Plant Disease Diagnosis, ESforRPD2, was developed based on the pest and disease experiences of the rice experts and uses a Waterfall Paradigm and Unified Modeling Language. This Expert System can detect 48 symptoms and 8 types of diseases of rice plants from 16 data tests with a sensitivity of 87.5%. The system can also provide recommendations for the treatment of identified diseases. ESforRPD2 is available in Indonesian at http://esforrpd2.blog.unmul.ac.id
Physical rehabilitation versus no physical rehabilitation after total hip and knee arthroplasties: Protocol for a pragmatic, randomized, controlled, superiority trial (The DRAW1 trial)
Authors: Mark-Christensen Troels , Thorborg Kristian , Kallemose Thomas , Bandholm Thomas
Published: July 2024

Background: Following total hip- and knee arthroplasty (THA and TKA), post-discharge physical rehabilitation is common practice, but varies significantly regarding content, duration, intensity and mode of delivery. Recent systematic reviews have found home-based rehabilitation to be as good as outpatient rehabilitation in terms of pain and physical function. We therefore wonder if physical rehabilitation “works” at all when compared to no physical rehabilitation after THA and TKA – “no rehabilitation” defined as no prescribed therapeutic rehabilitation exercises. The purpose of this trial is to compare the effectiveness of home-based telerehabilitation, home-based rehabilitation and no physical rehabilitation following THA and TKA. 

Methods: This pragmatic, randomized controlled trial will include 168 patients following discharge after THA or TKA, in Bornholm Denmark. Patients will be randomized into one of the three 6-week rehabilitation strategies: home-based telerehabilitation, home-based rehabilitation or no physical rehabilitation. The trial is designed as a superiority trial to test the hypothesis that rehabilitation (home-based telerehabilitation and home-based rehabilitation) is superior to no physical rehabilitation. The primary outcome will be the hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS)/ the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS)-subscale: function of daily living at first follow-up (end of the 6-weeks' intervention). Additional follow-ups are scheduled at 3 and 12 months. Outcome assessors and data analysts are blinded to group allocation.

Conclusions: Knowledge about the effectiveness of the three investigated rehabilitation strategies will help guide the future organization of post-discharge rehabilitation after THA and TKA.

Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03750448 (23/11/2018)
Factors related to loss of appetite in postoperative cardiac surgery patients: A systematic review
Authors: Prasankok Channarong , Banharak Samoraphop
Published: July 2024

Background Postoperative cardiac surgery patients often experience appetite loss. Although nutritional status is known to be associated with time of recovery, functional status, and length of stay, less is known about factors related to patient’s loss of appetite after cardiac surgery. This review aimed to identify and understand factors related to loss of appetite in postoperative cardiac surgery patients, systematic review with narrative summary design was applied. Data sources including CINAHL, SCOPUS, PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, ThaiLIS, ThaiJo, and E-Thesis were searched without restriction on publication year through August 2020. Methods We conducted the review following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) checklist to categorize methodological quality and the PRISMA flow diagram to record the studies’ factors. Results Six studies reported one or more of 16 factors related to loss of appetite: older age, sex (female), illiteracy, history of chronic disease, not knowing someone in health field, pain score ≥ 7, pain medications containing codeine, constipation, depression, heart-lung machine ≥ 120 minutes, preoperative serum creatinine levels ≥ 179 µmol/L, emergency surgery, perfusion pressure ≤ 40 mmHg, low cardiac output syndrome, mechanical ventilation ≥ 96 hours, and a New York Heart Association class III and IV. Conclusion The small number of publications restrict our conclusions. Future research should focus on multiple factors related to appetite loss in postoperative cardiac surgery patients. Additional research will provide a foundation for evidence-based interventions to reduce appetite loss and improve patient nutritional status after cardiac surgery. Nurses and other health professionals should assess postoperative cardiac surgery patients for the presence of the 16 significant factors. To promote patients’ nutritional status, there should be evidence-based practice guidelines on the management of postoperative symptoms such as pain management, treatment of constipation, and reduction of emotional stress and depression.
Nutrient loading and farm characteristics of giant gourami fish aquaculture systems in Lake Maninjau, Indonesia: basic knowledge of production performance
Authors: Syandri Hafrijal , Azrita Azrita , Sumiarsih Eni , undefined Elfiondri
Published: July 2024

Background

Aquaculture systems for giant gourami, Osphronemus goramy Lacepède (1801), have significantly improved fish production yields and food security in Indonesia. However, these systems also cause serious problems in terms of eutrophication in waterbodies. This study analysed the nutrient loading and farm characteristics of giant gourami in floating cages in Lake Maninjau.

Method

A total of 20 floating cages were used to record these nutrients in feed supply, female and male juvenile fish, dead fish and harvested fish to estimate nutrient loading. Data on the harvested fish, production cycle, stock number and cage capacity were used to estimate the stocking density, feeding rate, feed efficiency, and net fish yield, and the relationship between feed supply and nutrient loading and farm characteristics was analysed by least squares regression methods.

Results

A total of 20 floating cages released nutrients into waterbodies at an average rate of 236.27±60.44 kg/cycle for C, 84.52±20.86 kg/cycle for N and 8.70±3.63 kg/cycle for P. On average, fish production for each floating cage (±SD) was 1226±282 kg wet weight/cycle, and the net fish yield was 12.63±2.82 kg/m3/cycle. Survival rates ranged from 86.33 to 95.27%/cycle. The production cycles varied from 160 to 175 days with feed conversion ratios between 1.60 and 1.75, feed conversion efficiencies were between 0.58 and 0.63. The production parameters that had strong relationships with the net fish yield were feed supply (r2=0.960), stocking rates (r2=0.924) and feeding rates (r2=0.961). In contrast, the length of the production cycle was not strongly related to the net fish yield (r2=0.187).

Conclusion

Nutrient loading from the supplied feed was greater than that from the harvested fish, juvenile fish and dead fish. Increasing the net fish yield in floating cages was better predicted by the stocking densities and feeding levels than by the other factors.
New incidence or recurrence hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in genotype 4 hepatitis C virus treated with sofosbuvir/daclatasvir with or without ribavirin
Authors: Essawy Aya , Mehrez Mai , Shaheen Sara M. , El Garem Hassan , Sabri Nagwa A.
Published: July 2024

Background: Several studies have resulted in controversial data about the recurrence or new incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis C who were treated with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs).   Aim: This observational study aimed to assess the occurrence rate of HCC in patients who developed a sustained virological response (SVR). METHOD:  A six-month prospective study was done at the National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute [NHTMRI] in Cairo, Egypt on 150 chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients treated with sofosbuvir and daclatasvir with or without ribavirin. Patients were assigned into two groups according to their laboratory values to either receive sofosbuvir/daclatasvir and ribavirin (S/D/R) or receive only sofosbuvir/daclatasvir (S/D). The main outcome measure was the occurrence of HCC. Results: SVR-12 was 100%. 8.5% of patients developed HCC in the S/D/R group, while 0% in the S/D group. Conclusion:  New incidence or recurrence of HCC may occur in CHC genotype 4 cirrhotic patients receiving sofosbuvir/daclatasvir and ribavirin (difficult to treat) although achieving SVR. The cause of HCC development in this study is cirrhosis, not the administered DAAs.
Skin swabbing protocol to collect DNA samples from small-bodied fish species
Authors: Tilley Ceinwen , Barber Iain , Norton William
Published: July 2024

Fish species are commonly used as experimental models in the laboratory. DNA is routinely collected from these animals to permit identification of their genotype. The current standard procedure to sample DNA is fin clipping, which involves anaesthetising individuals and removing a portion of the caudal fin. While fin clipping reliably generates good quality DNA samples for downstream applications, there is evidence that it can alter health and welfare, and impact the fish’s behaviour. This in turn can result in greater variation in the data collected. In a recent study we adapted a skin swabbing protocol to collect DNA from small-bodied fish, including sticklebacks and zebrafish, without the use of analgesics, anaesthetics or sharp instruments. A rayon-tipped swab was used to collect mucus from the flank of the fish, which was then used for DNA extraction. We subsequently demonstrated that compared to fin clipping, skin swabbing triggered fewer changes in stress axis activation and behaviour. We also found that gene expression and behaviour data collected from swabbed fish were less variable than similar data collected from fish that had been fin clipped. This potentially allows smaller sample sizes in experimental groups to be used after skin swabbing, thereby reducing animal use. Here we provide a detailed protocol explaining how to collect DNA samples from small laboratory fish using skin swabs.
Evidence of mitochondria origin of SARS-CoV-2 double-membrane vesicles: a review.
Authors: Montes de Oca-B Pavel
Published: July 2024

Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has infected more than 600 million people and killed more than 6 million people worldwide. This infection affects mainly certain groups of people that have high susceptibility to present severe COVID-19 due to comorbidities. Moreover, the long-COVID-19 comprises a series of symptoms that may remain in some patients for months after infection that further compromises their health. Thus, since this pandemic is profoundly affecting health, economy, and social life of societies, a deeper understanding of viral replication cycle could help to envisage novel therapeutic alternatives that limit or stop COVID-19. Several findings have unexpectedly discovered that mitochondria play a critical role in SARS-CoV-2 cell infection. Indeed, it has been suggested that this organelle could be the origin of its replication niches, the double membrane vesicles (DMV). In this regard, mitochondria derived vesicles (MDV), involved in mitochondria quality control, discovered almost 15 years ago, comprise a subpopulation characterized by a double membrane. MDV shedding is induced by mitochondrial stress, and it has a fast assembly dynamic, reason that perhaps has precluded their identification in electron microscopy or tomography studies. These and other features of MDV together with recent SARS-CoV-2 protein interactome and other findings link SARS-CoV-2 to mitochondria and support that these vesicles are the precursors of SARS-CoV-2 induced DMV. In this work, the morphological, biochemical, molecular, and cellular evidence that supports this hypothesis is reviewed and integrated into the current model of SARS-CoV-2 cell infection. In this scheme, some relevant questions are raised as pending topics for research that would help in the near future to test this hypothesis. The intention of this work is to provide a novel framework that could open new possibilities to tackle SARS-CoV-2 pandemic through mitochondria and DMV targeted therapies.
Reflective practice across speech and language therapy and education: a protocol for an integrative review
Authors: McCluskey Jessica , Gallagher Aoife L. , Murphy Carol-Anne
Published: July 2024

Effective co-practice is considered a linchpin of inclusive education. Speech and language therapists (SLT), in collaboration with teachers, are amongst the professionals who have a role in ensuring inclusion for students. The challenges of collaboration are well documented, with communication considered a potential antidote. Proposals for how collaborative communication can take place often align with models of reflection. Uncertainty around a shared language for reflection within and across the professions of teaching and SLT may pose a barrier to it occurring. Reflection has long been documented as a strategy used by effective clinicians to improve practice. Hence, teachers and SLTs reflecting together could be considered ‘a port of entry’ for effective collaborative practice. This study aims to synthesise literature and knowledge on the phenomenon of reflective practice across the professions to facilitate collaboration for inclusive education.

The method of qualitative evidence synthesis will be an integrative review. A systematic search will be conducted to extract empirical studies, reviews and theoretical papers on the topic of reflection across both professions.  An adapted version of the PRISMA reporting guidelines will be used in the development, design and reporting of this review. Four databases will be searched: CINAHL, SCOPUS, Education Source and ERIC. A web-based search will also be conducted to retrieve relevant policy documents. Included literature will be appraised using the M-MAT and an adapted checklist from the Joanna Briggs Institute. Deductive content analysis will endeavour to determine if a shared language exists about reflection, across the professions of teaching and speech and language therapy.

Establishing a shared language represents a first step towards the development of a framework for collaborative reflection between teachers and SLTs. This is turn serves to inform future research, policy and practice regarding how speech and language therapist can work collaboratively with teachers in schools.
Behaviour change interventions addressing antibiotic treatment seeking behaviour for respiratory tract infections in primary care settings: A scoping review protocol
Authors: Maher Anthony , Roche Kevin , C Morrissey Eimear , W Murphy Andrew , Sheaf Greg , Ryan Cristin , Molloy Gerry
Published: July 2024

Objective This scoping review aims to synthesise the extent and type of evidence on behaviour change interventions which address antibiotic treatment seeking behaviour for respiratory tract infections in the primary care/community setting. Introduction Antimicrobial Resistance is recognised as a global health and economic threat by the World Health Organization and World Bank. Several lines of evidence point to patient and public demand as a key driver of inappropriate antibiotic use. Current policy initiatives acknowledge the need to prepare for the future by managing public expectations regarding antibiotics, especially for influenza-like illness and other respiratory tract infections. These initiatives emphasise the importance of designing and evaluating effective interventions that generate actionable knowledge for policy and practices related to the appropriate use of antibiotics. Behaviour change interventions, in this context, can aim to modify patients' attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours regarding antibiotics. Inclusion criteria Identified studies will describe behaviour change interventions aimed at potential patients/participants within the primary care/community setting that address patient expectations of antibiotic use for respiratory tract infections. Diagnoses for respiratory tract infections will be classified by ICD-10 criterion. Methods This scoping review will search the literature in Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, and Google Scholar to explore behaviour change interventions used to reduce expectations of antibiotics for respiratory tract infections in primary care. This review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews. It will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews.
Preschool children’s ideas about peer-mediated intervention for autistic children who use minimal speech: a qualitative study protocol
Authors: O'Donoghue Michelle , Kennedy Norelee , Murphy Carol-Anne
Published: July 2024

Background Without intervention and support, autistic children may have limited interactions with their peers in inclusive preschool settings, thus restricting the potential of this environment to support children’s learning and social development. Peer-mediated interventions (PMIs) include a variety of approaches which aim to support non-autistic and autistic children to interact with each other. Children have contributed little to the design and development of PMIs. This study aims to provide a qualitative, child-centred, description of the implementation of PMI, according to non-autistic preschool children. Methods Focus groups will be conducted with a convenient sample of preschool children recruited from a local preschool. Talk- and art-based activities will be used to generate discussion around a series of vignettes. Focus groups will be video, and audio recorded and transcribed and analysed using a reflexive approach to thematic analysis. Ethics and Dissemination Ethical approval has been granted by the Faculty of Education and Health Sciences University of Limerick, Research Ethics Committee (2024_04_05_EHS). Findings will be disseminated through journal publication and through distribution of lay summaries and an infographic.
Effectiveness of interactive dashboards to optimise prescribing in primary care: a protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Moynagh Patrick , Mannion Áine , Wei Ashley , Clyne Barbara , Moriarty Frank , McCarthy Caroline
Published: July 2024

Introduction Advances in therapeutics and healthcare have led to a growing population of older people living with multimorbidity and polypharmacy making prescribing more challenging. Most prescribing occurs in primary care and General Practitioners (GPs) have expressed interest in comparative feedback on their prescribing performance. Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) and audit and feedback interventions have shown some impact, but changes are often short-lived. Interactive dashboards, a novel approach integrating CDSS and audit and feedback elements, offer longitudinal updated data outside clinical encounters. This systematic review aims to explore the effectiveness of interactive dashboards on prescribing-related outcomes in primary care and examine the characteristics of these dashboards. Methods This protocol was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023481475) and reported in line with PRISMA-P guidelines. Searches of PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and grey literature, including trial registries were performed to identify interventional studies (randomised and non-randomised) that assess the effectiveness of interactive dashboards on prescribing related outcomes. The search will be supplemented by searching references of retrieved articles with the use of an automated citation chaser. Identified records will be screened independently by two reviewers and data from eligible studies extracted using a purposely developed data extraction tool. We will narratively summarise the intervention types and those associated with improvements in prescribing outcomes. A quantitative synthesis will be carried out if a sufficient number of homogenous studies are identified. Methodological quality will be assessed by two reviewers using the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care risk assessment tool. Discussion This systematic review will explore the effect of interactive dashboards on prescribing related outcome measures in primary care and describe the characteristics of interactive dashboards. This research may inform future intervention development and shape policymaking particularly in the context of ongoing and planned developments in e-prescribing infrastructure.
The role of general practitioners in the management of patients with acne using isotretinoin: Protocol for a scoping review of clinical practice guidelines
Authors: Quinlan Diarmuid , Sahm Laura , O'Keeffe Linda , Santer Miriam , Foley Tony
Published: July 2024

Background Acne is the most common inflammatory skin disease, affecting most teenagers and many adults. Acne imposes physical, psychological, social and fiscal burdens, with additional concerns around antimicrobial stewardship. Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for severe acne. However, there are well-documented serious adverse effects with teratogenicity, impact on mental health and blood abnormalities of particular concern. The prescribing practice of isotretinoin varies substantially internationally. Some countries restrict isotretinoin prescribing solely to dermatologists, while other countries have guidance supporting GPs to prescribe isotretinoin as well. The existing literature lacks clarity around the important issue of who should prescribe isotretinoin and fails to describe the specific role of GPs in managing patients with acne using isotretinoin. This scoping review will address this evidence gap by examining the role of the GP in prescribing isotretinoin in acne clinical practice guidelines. Methods This scoping review adopts the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology with PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. The search strategy will interrogate medical databases and grey literature, and will also directly contact key stakeholders internationally, to identify clinical practice guidelines on the use of isotretinoin in acne from 2013 to May 2024. Two reviewers will independently review all citations, and full text of selected sources, against relevant inclusion-exclusion criteria. Appropriate data extraction tool(s) will be designed, piloted and refined, whereupon full data extraction will be undertaken. Results This scoping review will interrogate diverse evidence sources and distil the evidence base informing the role of GPs in prescribing isotretinoin for people with acne. Conclusion The strategic objective of this scoping review is to explore and illuminate the evidence around the role of GPs in prescribing isotretinoin when managing patients with acne.
Initial development and validation of item banks to measure problematic hypersexuality
Authors: van Tuijl Piet , Verboon Peter , van Lankveld Jacques
Published: July 2024

Background Problematic Hypersexuality (PH) is defined as a distress caused by hypersexuality, to the extent that seeking treatment is considered. PH was previously measured with instruments stemming from different perspectives on problems related to hypersexuality. These instruments might best be analyzed in unison to discover the most optimal set of characteristics to measure PH. Methods A total of 58 items were investigated with Item Response Theory (IRT). We included 1211 participants (592 women, 618 men, 1 other) from a representative Dutch general population sample of 18 years or older. In addition, 371 participants (116 women, 253 men, 2 other) in a web-based survey who sought information on their current level of PH were included. This latter group was divided into those that did or did not consider treatment and group differences in item averages were assessed. Results After item selection, 26 out of 58 items were retained and divided in two scales: Emotion Dysregulation-PH – 9 items representing the distressing emotional patterns coinciding with hypersexual preoccupation – and Negative Effects-PH – 17 items representing the negative consequences of patterns of hypersexual thoughts and behavior. Assumptions for IRT analyses were met (unidimensionality, local independence and monotonicity). After an IRT graded response model was fit, the scales showed sufficient reliability for the target population of hypersexual individuals. In the general population the scales showed large floor effects and were less reliable. Conclusions With this study a first step is taken in validating two complementary item banks to measure PH. Further development of the item banks should include the investigation of responsiveness. New items should be constructed to assess less-explored areas of PH and improve differentiating power of the scales. This study showed that diagnostic accuracy for PH is currently difficult to attain with a survey, even when using an extended item set representing the most unique characteristics of PH.
Scientific Data Spaces - Experiences from the EGI-ACE project
Authors: Sipos Gergely , La Rocca Giuseppe , Antonio Fabrizio , Elia Donatello , Nassisi Paola , Fiore Sandro , Bardaji Raul , Rodero Ivan
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the approach adopted by the EGI-ACE project for the setup and delivery of Data Spaces for various scientific domains. The work was implemented by members of the EGI e-infrastructure and of several European Research Infrastructures in the context of the European Open Science Cloud programme. Our results are several Data Space services that enable the reuse and exploitation of open, scientific big data for compute intensive use cases. The paper illustrates the EGI-ACE approach through two examples: (1) EMSO ERIC Data Portal for seafloor and water column research and (2) ENES Data Space for climate research.
Decision Support Systems adoption in pesticide management
Authors: Akaka Jotham Jea , García-Gallego Aurora , Georgantzis Nikolaos , Tisserand Jean-Christian , Vasileiou Efi , Ramsden Mark
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the findings from a survey on factors influencing the adoption of agricultural Decision Support Systems (DSS). Our study focuses on examining the influence of behavioural, socioeconomic and farm specific characteristics on DSS adoption. Using two structural equation models, we investigate how these factors influence the willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to adopt. Our analysis reveals nuanced insights into the user and farm-specific factors that influence the decision-making process of DSS adoption and WTP. Notably, farm size significantly influences both adoption and WTP, with larger farms more likely to adopt and exhibit higher WTP. To promote adoption, it is important to adapt promotion strategies, with a focus on productivity benefits for large-scale farms and addressing price barriers for smaller ones. Additionally, the main crop type grown impacts WTP and adoption, with arable crop farmers exhibit a lower WTP but more likely to adopt, especially in large-scale operations. Conversely, small-scale arable farmers exhibit higher WTP but lower adoption rates due to scale constraints. Farmer characteristics such as experience and attitudes also play a crucial role, with experienced users and those perceiving productivity improvements due to DSS showing higher WTP. In addition, adoption is also influenced by ease of use and pricing, underpinning the importance of user-friendly designs and clear cost justifications. DSSs with user-centric designs and clear cost justifications can enhance adoption rates.