bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Simulated Phone Death Notification
Authors: Murtha Tanya D. , Johnson Rachel R. , Ellman Matthew S. , Martin Andrés S. , Morrison Laura J. , Talwalkar Jaideep S.
Published: December 2024

Background

Physicians perform many difficult skills, but notifying loved ones about the death of a family member is a particularly challenging skill that requires specific training. Descriptions of such training are lacking in the literature. We developed a formative standardised patient encounter on death notification over the telephone for fourth‐year medical students and evaluated their qualitative perspectives, including emotional safety.

Approach

Embedded within a fourth‐year advanced communication skills workshop in 2019, a case was introduced to practice telephone death notification. Students had a preparatory didactic lesson, received formative peer feedback, and participated in faculty‐led debriefs.

Evaluation

Eighty‐eight medical students at one medical school in the United States participated in debriefing sessions after a communication skills workshop during the fourth‐year capstone course. The debriefing sessions were audio‐recorded and transcribed. Fifty‐seven of those students completed postsession surveys. Transcripts and surveys were qualitatively analysed using content analysis to code responses, extract salient categories, and distil into themes. Three general themes emerged: communication challenges, emotional responses, and appreciation for the experience. Communication challenges included using language about death, experiences of silence, complications of distance and driving, and communication by phone. Students described the case as “challenging,” “uncomfortable,” “intense,” and “emotional.” Despite these strong feelings, students expressed appreciation for the experience, noting appropriateness of the preparation and debrief, a sense of safety, and realistic encounters.

Implications

Telephone death notification training was a valued, realistic, and emotionally safe experience. Students felt appropriately challenged, but adequately supported. These skills can be included in formative communication skills curricula.
How to … Overcome Challenges in Implementing Escape Rooms in Medical Education
Authors: Lim Iris
Published: December 2024

Escape rooms have emerged as a dynamic educational tool in medical education, offering immersive experiences that foster critical thinking, teamwork and practical skills. Despite their potential, the implementation of escape rooms faces significant challenges, including resource limitations, curricular integration and ensuring educational effectiveness. This paper presents practical tips to address these challenges, covering aspects such as securing resources, designing scalable and inclusive activities, leveraging technology and evaluating educational outcomes. These tips provide educators with a comprehensive guide to navigate the complexities of integrating escape rooms into medical curricula successfully. By adopting these strategies, educators can enhance the learning experience, making escape rooms a valuable component of medical education that prepares students for the complexities of healthcare practice.
Can I Phone a Friend? Exploring the Use of Digital Devices in Clinical Exams
Authors: Gillespie Hannah , Reid Helen , Cullen Kathy
Published: December 2024

Background

Objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) are used globally to assess health professional learners' clinical skills and applied knowledge. Despite innovations with simulated participants, manikin technology and real patient involvement, there remains a gap between ‘real‐life’ practice and ‘OSCE experience’. For example, although mobile phone use is increasingly common in clinical practice; however, it would represent a significant disruption to established assessment practices in OSCEs. We aimed to explore student use of mobile phones during OSCE assessment, with a focus on exam security, equity and relevance to practice.

Methods

Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) allows us to conceptualise and analyse complex systems such as those of OSCE assessment. We recruited a range of stakeholders in a UK medical school setting to participate in focus group interviews exploring our stated aim. Transcripts were analysed using CHAT as a theoretical lens to construct an activity system of assessment and identify emerging tensions around the use of a potentially disruptive technology: students' own mobile phones.

Findings

Seven examiners, 13 medical students, and two simulated participants participated in three focus groups. Three sources of tension were identified: between the tools of assessment and practice, of exam security and exam relevance, and of medical students as people and professionals.

Discussion and Conclusion

This study exemplifies how a seemingly small disruption in a complex system (introducing a mobile phone—a tool used in everyday practice) can help us understand and describe the unwritten rules of assessment.
Mathematical modelling of polyvinyl chloride embedded tin tungsto phosphate composite membrane for industrial water separation
Authors: Siddiqui Salman , Khan Mohammad Mujahid Ali , Rafiuddin
Published: December 2024

A novel tin tungstophosphate (TTP) composite ion‐exchange membrane was made with casting a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) by co‐precipitation method. The electrochemical characterization and intermolecular interactions between the components in composite membranes are established by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD) and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) and thermogravimetry differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA). The membrane potential has been used to characterize the ion‐transport processes across a charged membrane and follow the order: NaCl>KCl > NaNO3 > KNO3.The fixed‐charge density is the primary determinant of transport phenomena in membranes, although additional electrochemical factors augment membrane efficiency. The electrolytes' capacity to transmit charges in a membrane in a certain sequence is influenced by the counterions. The experimental results and the theoretical prediction for membrane potential agree very well. The membrane mentioned above is excellent for separating industrial water.
On the zeros of odd weight Eisenstein series
Authors: van Ittersum Jan‐Willem , Ringeling Berend
Published: December 2024

We count the number of zeros of the holomorphic odd weight Eisenstein series in all ‐translates of the standard fundamental domain.
PL homeomorphisms of surfaces and codimension 2 PL foliations
Authors: Nariman Sam
Published: December 2024

The Haefliger–Thurston conjecture predicts that Haefliger's classifying space for $C^r$-foliations of codimension $n$ whose normal bundles are trivial is $2n$-connected. In this paper, we confirm this conjecture for piecewise linear (PL) foliations of codimension $2$. Using this, we use a version of the Mather–Thurston theorem for PL homeomorphisms due to the author to derive new homological properties for PL surface homeomorphisms. In particular, we answer the question of Epstein in dimension $2$ and prove the simplicity of the identity component of PL surface homeomorphisms.
Erratum: “Physics simulation via quantum graph neural network” [AVS Quantum Sci. 5, 023801 (2023)]
Authors: Collis Benjamin , Patel Saahil , Koch Daniel , Wessing Laura , Alsing Paul M. , Cutugno Massimiliano
Published: December 2024

Initiated by the authors, this erratum is written concerning the discovery of a misplaced unitary within the software implementation of the Implementable Quantum Graph Neural Network (QGNN) of the original paper. Analyzing this mistake's impact on the results, it is shown to be negligible, meaning that the results, analysis, and conclusion of the original paper remain valid. The misplacement of this unitary is found to be negligible due to it being a redundant feature in the Implementable QGNN, in addition to the parameterized quantum circuits employed being able to learn to a moderately effective degree by themselves; though, the unitaries that correspond to graph neural network algorithmic values utilized within the Implementable QGNN are still shown to be critical to the performance capability of this quantum machine learning model.
Investigating and improving student understanding of time dependence of expectation values in quantum mechanics using an interactive tutorial on Larmor precession
Authors: Brown Ben , Zhu Guangtian , Singh Chandralekha
Published: December 2024

We studied the challenges students face with time dependence in quantum mechanics, specifically in the context of Larmor precession of spin. This research informed the creation and evaluation of a learning tutorial aimed at helping students grasp these concepts using a two-state system. The tutorial utilizes visualization tools to enhance students' intuition and emphasizes the integration of qualitative and quantitative understanding. We also examine how students applied semi-classical or quantum mechanical reasoning in their answers and assess the improvement they showed after working with the tutorial.
Pharmacokinetics of ethambutol and weight banded dosing in South African adults newly diagnosed with tuberculosis and HIV
Authors: Ndzamba Bonginkosi , Denti Paolo , McIlleron Helen , Smith Peter , Mthiyane Thuli , Rustomjee Roxana , Onyebujoh Philip , Reséndiz-Galván Juan Eduardo
Published: December 2024

Ethambutol is used to treat tuberculosis (TB) in individuals living with HIV. Low concentrations of ethambutol have been reported in patients dosed with the World Health Organization (WHO)-recommended first-line regimen. We analyzed the pharmacokinetics of ethambutol in 61 HIV-positive individuals diagnosed with drug-sensitive TB enrolled in the tuberculosis and highly active antiretroviral therapy (TB-HAART) study. Participants started on TB treatment and were randomized to early or later introduction of efavirenz-based antiretroviral treatment. We explored potential covariate effects and evaluated the current WHO dosing recommendations for ethambutol in drug-susceptible and multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB. A two-compartment model with first-order elimination allometrically scaled by fat-free mass and transit compartment absorption best described the pharmacokinetics of ethambutol. Clearance was estimated to be 40.3 L/h for a typical individual with a fat-free mass (FFM) of 42 kg. The Antib-4 formulation had 26% higher bioavailability and slower mean transit time by 37% compared with Rifafour. Simulations showed that individuals in the lower weight bands (<55 kg) who were administered ethambutol at WHO-recommended doses had relatively low drug exposures. These individuals would need doses of 825 mg if their body weight is <37.9 kg and 1,100 mg if it is between 38 and 54.9 kg to achieve the reference maximum concentrations of 2–6 mg/L and an area under the concentration-time curve (0–24) of 16–29 mg·h/L. To achieve these targets in MDR-TB treatment, a dose increment of 400 mg (extra tablet) would be required for individuals in the lower weight band (<46 kg). Our dose adjustments are consistent with the literature and can be recommended for consideration by the WHO for first-line drug-susceptible and MDR-TB treatment.
Temporal dynamics of soil microbial C and N cycles with GHG fluxes in the transition from tropical peatland forest to oil palm plantation
Authors: Midot Frazer , Goh Kian Mau , Liew Kok Jun , Lau Sharon Yu Ling , Espenberg Mikk , Mander Ülo , Melling Lulie
Published: December 2024

Tropical peatlands significantly influence local and global carbon and nitrogen cycles, yet they face growing pressure from anthropogenic activities. Land use changes, such as peatland forests conversion to oil palm plantations, affect the soil microbiome and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the temporal dynamics of microbial community changes and their role as GHG indicators are not well understood. This study examines the dynamics of peat chemistry, soil microbial communities, and GHG emissions from 2016 to 2020 in a logged-over secondary peat swamp forest in Sarawak, Malaysia, which transitioned to an oil palm plantation. This study focuses on changes in genetic composition governing plant litter degradation, methane (CH
4
), and nitrous oxide (N
2
O) fluxes. Soil CO
2
emission increased (doubling from approximately 200 mg C m
−2
h
−1
), while CH
4
emissions decreased (from 200 µg C m
−2
h
−1
to slightly negative) following land use changes. The N
2
O emissions in the oil palm plantation reached approximately 1,510 µg N m
−2
h
−1
, significantly higher than previous land uses. The CH
4
fluxes were driven by groundwater table, humification levels, and C:N ratio, with
Methanomicrobia
populations dominating methanogenesis and
Methylocystis
as the main CH
4
oxidizer. The N
2
O fluxes correlated with groundwater table, total nitrogen, and C:N ratio with dominant
nirK
-type denitrifiers (13-fold
nir
to
nosZ
) and a minor role by nitrification (a threefold increase in
amoA
) in the plantation.
Proteobacteria
and
Acidobacteria
encoding incomplete denitrification genes potentially impact N
2
O emissions. These findings highlighted complex interactions between microbial communities and environmental factors influencing GHG fluxes in altered tropical peatland ecosystems.

IMPORTANCE

Tropical peatlands are carbon-rich environments that release significant amounts of greenhouse gases when drained or disturbed. This study assesses the impact of land use change on a secondary tropical peat swamp forest site converted into an oil palm plantation. The transformation lowered groundwater levels and changed soil properties. Consequently, the oil palm plantation site released higher carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide compared to previous land uses. As microbial communities play crucial roles in carbon and nitrogen cycles, this study identified environmental factors associated with microbial diversity, including genes and specific microbial groups related to nitrous oxide and methane emissions. Understanding the factors driving microbial composition shifts and greenhouse gas emissions in tropical peatlands provides baseline information to potentially mitigate environmental consequences of land use change, leading to a broader impact on climate change mitigation efforts and proper land management practices.
Hydration conditions as a critical factor in antibiotic-mediated bacterial competition outcomes
Authors: Beizman-Magen Yana , Orevi Tomer , Kashtan Nadav
Published: December 2024

Antibiotic secretion plays a pivotal role in bacterial interference competition; yet, the impact of environmental hydration conditions on such competition is not well understood. Here, we investigate how hydration conditions affect interference competition among bacteria, studying the interactions between the antibiotic-producing
Bacillus velezensis
FZB42 and two bacterial strains susceptible to its antibiotics:
Xanthomonas euvesicatoria
85-10 and
Pseudomonas syringae
DC3000. Our results show that wet-dry cycles significantly modify the response of the susceptible bacteria to both the supernatant and cells of the antibiotic-producing bacteria, compared to constantly wet conditions. Notably
, X. euvesicatoria
shows increased protection against both the cells and supernatants of
B. velezensis
under wet-dry cycles, while
P. syringae
cells become more susceptible under wet-dry cycles. In addition, we observed a reciprocal interaction between
P. syringae
and
B. velezensis
, where
P. syringae
inhibits
B. velezensis
under wet conditions. Our findings highlight the important role of hydration conditions in shaping bacterial interference competition, providing valuable insights into the microbial ecology of water-unsaturated surfaces, with implications for applications such as biological control of plant pathogens and mitigating antibiotic resistance.

IMPORTANCE

Our study reveals that hydration conditions, particularly wet-dry cycles, significantly influence antibiotic-mediated competition between bacterial species. We revealed that the effectiveness of antibiotics produced by
Bacillus velezensis
against two susceptible bacterial species:
Xanthomonas
and
Pseudomonas
varies based on these hydration conditions. Unlike traditional laboratory environments, many real-world habitats, such as soil, plant surfaces, and even animal skin, undergo frequent wet-dry cycles. These conditions affect bacterial competition dynamics and outcomes, with wet-dry cycles providing increased protection for some bacteria while making others more susceptible. Our findings highlight the importance of considering environmental hydration when studying microbial interactions and developing biological control strategies. This research has important implications for improving agricultural practices and understanding natural microbial ecosystems.
The CP123L protein of African swine fever virus is a membrane-associated, palmitoylated protein required for viral replication
Authors: Guan Xiangyu , Wang Tao , Gao Yuxuan , Zhai Huanjie , Jiang Fengwei , Hou Qinghe , Yang Xiaoke , Wu Hongxia , Li Lian-Feng , Luo Yuzi , Li Su , Sun Yuan , Qiu Hua-Ji , Li Yongfeng
Published: December 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and often lethal disease caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV) in pigs. Protein palmitoylation is a prevalent posttranslational lipid modification that can modulate viral replication. In this study, we investigated the palmitoylation of ASFV proteins. The results revealed that the CP123L protein (pCP123L) of ASFV was palmitoylated at the cysteine residue at position 18 (C18). To further elucidate the functional significance of this posttranslational modification, abolishing palmitoylation through a cysteine-to-serine mutation at C18 (C18S) of pCP123L (pCP123L/C18S) or treatment with 2-bromopalmitate (2-BP), a palmitoylation inhibitor, led to altered cytomembrane localization and migration rate of pCP123L. Furthermore, depalmitoylation achieved through 2-BP treatment significantly suppressed ASFV replication and exerted a profound impact on virus budding. Remarkably, blocking pCP123L palmitoylation
via
the C18S mutation resulted in decreased replication of ASFV. Our study represents the first evidence for the presence of palmitoylation in ASFV proteins and underscores its crucial role in viral replication.

IMPORTANCE

African swine fever (ASF) poses a significant threat to the global pig industry. The causative agent of ASF is African swine fever virus (ASFV), which encodes more than 165 proteins. Protein palmitoylation, a common posttranslational lipid modification, can modulate viral infection. To date, the ASFV proteins that undergo palmitoylation and their impacts on viral replication remain elusive. In this study, the CP123L protein (pCP123L) of ASFV was identified as a palmitoylated protein, and the cysteine residue at position 18 of pCP123L is responsible for its palmitoylation. Notably, our findings demonstrate that palmitoylation plays significant roles in ASFV protein functions and facilitates viral replication.
Role of Vigilin and RACK1 in dengue virus-
Aedes aegypti-Wolbachia
interactions
Authors: Wang Guijie , Hussain Mazhar , Qi Zhi , Asgari Sassan
Published: December 2024

Vigilin is a large and evolutionary conserved RNA-binding protein (RBP), which can interact with RNA through its KH domain. Vigilin is, therefore, a multifunctional protein reported to be associated with RNA transport and metabolism, sterol metabolism, chromosome segregation, carcinogenesis, and heterochromatin-mediated gene silencing. The receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1) is another highly conserved protein involved in many cellular pathways. Functional studies in human cells indicated that RACK1 interacts with Vigilin to promote dengue virus (DENV) replication. Both proteins are associated with the endoplasmic reticulum. Here, we investigated the significance of Vigilin and RACK1 homologs in
Aedes aegypti
mosquitoes concerning DENV replication and
Wolbachia
infection. We identified the homologs of the two genes in
Ae. aegypti
(
AeVigilin
and
AeRACK1
), which were upregulated in DENV-infected Aag2 cells and mosquitoes, and silencing them in Aag2 cells resulted in reduced DENV replication. Co-immunoprecipitation showed that AeRACK1 and AeVigilin interact in mosquito cells. Interestingly, we also found upregulation of both genes in a
Wolbachia
-infected cell line (Aag2.
w
AlbB). Furthermore, silencing
AeVigilin
and
AeRACK1
in Aag2.
w
AlbB cells reduced DENV replication but increased
Wolbachia
density. However, we did not find a significant effect on DENV replication after silencing both genes in
Ae. aegypti
mosquitoes. Overall, our results support the involvement and significance of AeVigilin and AeRACK1 in DENV replication in
Ae. aegypti
.

IMPORTANCE

Dengue virus (DENV), transmitted mainly by
Aedes aegypti
mosquitoes, poses significant health risks. Identifying factors involved in the virus replication in mosquitoes and human hosts is essential for devising control measures. In this study, we show that Vigilin and the receptor for activated C kinase 1 (RACK1), two proteins shown to play a role in the replication of DENV in human cells, are induced in mosquitoes and cell lines following DENV replication. Both proteins reside in the cytoplasm, where they interact similarly to human cells. Silencing the genes in mosquito cells significantly reduced virus replication. Furthermore, we found that both genes are induced in mosquito cells transinfected with
Wolbachia
, a bacterium that blocks DENV replication. The results help better understand the role of the common factors supporting DENV replication in mosquitoes and human cells.
Hindguts of
Kyphosus sydneyanus
harbor phylogenetically and genomically distinct
Alistipes
capable of degrading algal polysaccharides and diazotrophy
Authors: Facimoto Cesar T. , Clements Kendall D. , White W. Lindsey , Handley Kim M.
Published: December 2024

The genus
Alistipes
(
Bacteroidota
) is most often associated with human clinical samples and livestock. However,
Alistipes
are also prevalent in the hindgut of the marine herbivorous fish
Kyphosus sydneyanus
(Silver Drummer), and analysis of their carbohydrate-active enzyme (CAZyme) encoding gene repertoires suggests
Alistipes
degrade macroalgal biomass to support fish nutrition. To further explore host-associated traits unique to
K. sydneyanus
-derived
Alistipes
, we compared 445 high-quality genomes of
Alistipes
available in public databases (e.g., human and ruminant associated) with 99 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from the
K. sydneyanus
gut. Analyses showed that
Alistipes
from
K. sydneyanus
are phylogenetically distinct from other hosts and comprise 26 species based on genomic average nucleotide identity (ANI) analyses. Ruminant- and fish-derived
Alistipes
had significantly smaller genomes than human-derived strains, and lower GC contents, possibly reflecting a symbiotic relationship with their hosts. The fish-derived
Alistipes
were further delineated by their genetic capacity to fix nitrogen, biosynthesize cobalamin (vitamin B12), and utilize marine polysaccharides (e.g., alginate and carrageenan). The distribution of CAZymes encoded by
Alistipes
from
K. sydneyanus
was not phylogenetically conserved. Distinct CAZyme gene compositions were observed between closely related species. Conversely, CAZyme gene clusters (operons) targeting the same substrates were found across diverse species. Nonetheless, transcriptional data suggest that closely related
Alistipes
target specific groups of substrates within the fish hindgut. Results highlight host-specific adaptations among
Alistipes
in the fish hindgut that likely contribute to
K. sydneyanus
digesting their seaweed diet, and diverse and redundant carbohydrate-degrading capabilities across these
Alistipes
species.

IMPORTANCE

Despite numerous reports of the
Alistipes
genus in humans and ruminants, its diversity and function remain understudied, and there is no clear consensus on whether it positively or negatively impacts host health. Given the symbiotic role of gut communities in the
Kyphosus sydneyanus
hindgut, where
Alistipes
are prevalent, and the diversity of carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) encoded that likely contribute to the breakdown of important substrates in the host diet, it is likely that this genus provides essential services to the fish host. Therefore, considering its metabolism in various contexts and hosts is crucial for understanding the ecology of the genus. Our study highlights the distinct genetic traits of
Alistipes
based on host association, and the potential of fish-associated
Alistipes
to transform macroalgae biomass into nutraceuticals (alginate oligosaccharides, β-glucans, sulfated galactans, and sulfated fucans).
Effect of electroacupuncture on discomfort in patients undergoing colonoscopy: protocol for a multicentre, randomised, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Sun Xiangyu , Lu Liyue , Wang Yongqiang , Wang Chunchun , Lin Chao , Xu Kuangdi , Yong Yue , Chen Wenting , Song Jiangang
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Colonoscopy is currently the most commonly used and effective method for early detection, diagnosis and treatment of tumours of the colon and rectum. However, similar to other invasive procedures, it is associated with adverse reactions such as pain and abdominal distension. Electroacupuncture (EA) has been proposed as a potential treatment for relieving this discomfort; however, there is limited evidence supporting its efficacy. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of EA when used prior to colonoscopy.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre, randomised, controlled, patient–assessor-blinded trial will be conducted at three hospitals in China. A total of 500 participants will be randomly assigned to either the EA group or sham EA (SEA) group, in a 1:1 ratio. EA will be administered for 30 min before the colonoscopy. Participants will be asked to complete detailed questionnaires within 10 min after the procedure and 24 hours after the procedure to record their symptoms. The primary outcome will be assessed using discomfort numeric rating scale (NRS) scores. Secondary outcomes will include participants’ tolerance levels, including standard NRS scores for abdominal pain, bloating and anal discomfort reported by the participants, as well as heart rate(HR), blood pressure(BP), surgical pleth index, participant satisfaction, nurses’ and endoscopists’ evaluations, incidence of adverse events and salivary cortisol levels collected before EA and after colonoscopy.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (number 2023-1327-94-01), Ethics Committee of Longhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (number 2023LCSY059) and Ethics Committee of Wuxi Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (number 2023-062-01). The results of this study will be disseminated in peer-reviewed publications. All potential participants will be provided informed consent before participating in the study.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2300073485.
Comparison of I-gel and Baska mask in elective surgery: a meta-analysis
Authors: Shen Jiaxin , Miao Xiaoyun , Wang Hao , Zhao Jinglin , Shi Jiaxiao , Dai Qingchun
Published: December 2024

Objective

The supraglottic airway device is a viable alternative to tracheal intubation for elective surgery. To conduct a comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages associated with use of the Baska mask and I-gel across various dimensions.

Design

A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and other relevant databases to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients who used the Baska mask and I-gel.

Main results

Twelve studies were identified for comparison of clinical indices. The Baska mask device demonstrated general feasibility in oropharyngeal leak pressure at insertion time and 30 min post-insertion, as well as in the assessment of dysphonia. However, the I-gel had superior efficacy in reducing sore throat compared with the Baska mask.

Conclusions

Based on current evidence, the Baska mask demonstrates superior intraoperative performance compared with I-gel; however, it is associated with a higher incidence of a sore throat post-extubation. Nevertheless, the overall quality of existing studies is suboptimal, underscoring the need for additional high-quality RCTs to substantiate these findings.
DIAMACC: protocol of a prospective diagnostic accuracy study of the maximal systolic acceleration to detect peripheral arterial disease in patients with diabetes-related foot ulceration in the Netherlands
Authors: Willems Siem , Schepers Abbey , Hamming Jaap , Brouwers Jeroen J W M
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Foot ulcers are one of the most serious complications of diabetes, leading to significant risks on amputation and mortality. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an important factor for the development and the outcome of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). Although prompt and accurate detection of PAD is critical to reduce complications, its diagnosis can be challenging with currently used bedside tests (such as ankle–brachial index and toe pressure) due to medial arterial calcification. A new and promising bedside test for the detection of PAD is the maximal systolic acceleration (ACCmax), measured by duplex ultrasonography (DUS). The primary aim of this study is to assess the diagnostic performance of the ACCmaxto detect PAD in patients with DFU, in comparison with commonly used bedside tests. Secondary aims include the correlation between diagnostic test accuracy and patient comorbidities. Tertiary objectives focus on collecting (follow-up) data for prognostic evaluation, such as ulcer healing, revascularisation feasibility, amputation risk, cardiovascular events and mortality.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre prospective diagnostic accuracy study with 198 patients will be conducted to assess the diagnostic performance of multiple index tests to detect PAD in patients with DFU, with special emphasis on ACCmax. A full lower limb arterial DUS will serve as reference test.

Ethics and dissemination

Study protocol approval was gained from the Medical Ethical Committee Leiden/Den Haag/Delft and registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. The findings of this study will be reported through peer-reviewed publications and (inter)national conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05646147.
Antireflux mucosal valvuloplasty versus proton pump inhibitors for the treatment of patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease in a tertiary healthcare centre in China: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Lv Xiaofen , Ma Wenlong , Zeng Yunqing , Lu Jiaoyang
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Endoscopic antireflux therapy has shown promising potential in the treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, there is currently no universally accepted standard for endoscopic surgery. Therefore, we introduced antireflux mucosal valvuloplasty (ARMV), an innovative endoscopic treatment for GERD. We have conducted a cohort study to assess the association between ARMV and clinical outcomes, including risks and benefits. The objective of this trail is to compare the efficacy of ARMV with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) therapy.

Methods and analysis

74 patients with chronic GERD will be randomised (1:1) to undergo either ARMV or continue PPI therapy. The primary endpoint is the GERD health-related quality of life score, measured 6 months postprocedure. Secondary endpoints include the GERD questionnaire score, presence of reflux oesophagitis, appearance of the mucosal flap, DeMeester score, PPI usage and the incidence of adverse events. After 6 months, crossover is allowed for the PPI group. Assessments will occur at baseline and at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months postintervention.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the Institutional Review Board of Qilu Hospital, Shandong University. Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 06348420).
Trends, outcomes and knowledge gaps in mobile apps for reproductive endocrinology and infertility: a scoping review protocol
Authors: dos Santos Emerson Roberto , de Gouvêa Aline Russomano , Castro Natália Almeida de Arnaldo Silva Ro , Souza Menezes João Daniel de , Querino da Silva Matheus , Cristóvão Helena Landin Gonçalves , Martins Cíntia Canato , Oliveira Jéssica Gisleine de , Fucuta Patrícia da Silva , Werneck Alexandre Lins , Filho Gerardo Maria de Araújo , Lima Alba Regina de Abreu , Caldas Heloisa Cristina , Brienze Vânia Maria Sabadoto , André Júlio César , Oliani Antônio Hélio
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Infertility is a complex condition that affects millions worldwide, with significant physical, emotional and social implications. Mobile apps have emerged as potential tools to assist in the management of infertility by offering features such as menstrual cycle tracking, ovulation prediction, fertility education, lifestyle modification guidance and emotional support, thereby promoting reproductive health. Despite promising advancements such as the development of apps with sophisticated algorithms for ovulation prediction and comprehensive platforms offering integrated fertility education and emotional support, there remain gaps in the literature regarding the comprehensive evaluation of mobile apps for reproductive endocrinology and infertility. This scoping review distinguishes itself by systematically mapping and synthesising evidence on mobile apps specifically for reproductive endocrinology and infertility, unlike previous reviews that may not have focused exclusively on this intersection. This review aims to analyse recent trends, identify outcomes used to assess usability and highlight knowledge gaps.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review will adhere to the methodological frameworks outlined by Arksey and O'Malley and Levacet al, alongside the Joanna Briggs Institute’s recommendations. The research question, ‘What is known about mobile apps in reproductive health and infertility?’ was formulated using the Population, Concept, Context (PCC) strategy. We will include studies published from January 2019 to April 2024 in English, Portuguese and Spanish that focus on the use of mobile apps in reproductive health and infertility. Searches will be conducted across electronic databases (EMBASE, ERIC, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science) and grey literature sources. Two independent reviewers will carry out the study selection using Covidence software. Data extraction will follow a standardised format and will be synthesised narratively using tables and graphs. Expert consultations will be conducted to validate the findings.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this scoping review as it will only use published data. The findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, conference presentations and stakeholder meetings. The review protocol will be registered with the Open Science Framework to ensure transparency and reproducibility.
Association between ultraprocessed foods consumption, eating disorders, food addiction and body image: a systematic review
Authors: Pereira Thamíris , Mocellin Michel Carlos , Curioni Cintia
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the association between ultraprocessed foods (UPF) consumption, eating disorders (EDs), food addiction and body image concerns.

Design

Systematic review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Data sources

Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, LILACS and APA PsycInfo databases, for studies published between 2009 and July 2024.

Eligibility criteria

We included cross-sectional and cohort studies involving individuals of all ages, evaluating the association between UPF consumption, classified by the ‘NOVA system’, EDs, food addiction and body image. No restrictions were placed on diagnostic criteria, age and gender. Studies that modelled UPF consumption as both an exposure and an outcome were included.

Data extraction and synthesis

Data extraction and quality assessment were performed by two independent reviewers. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist.

Results

We did not identify any longitudinal studies. Nine cross-sectional studies were included (n=54 367 participants). One study assessed EDs types, including restrictive, bulimic, binge eating and other (not otherwise specified); three studies examined body dissatisfaction, while five studies investigated food addiction. The consumption of UPF was significantly associated with bulimic, binge eating and other ED and food addiction. No significant associations were identified between restrictive ED and body dissatisfaction.

Conclusion

This systematic review highlights a significant gap in research on this topic. Although some associations have been found, the findings are limited to cross-sectional studies with methodological limitations. The lack of longitudinal studies emphasises the need for more rigorous research to accurately assess the direction of these relationships.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022365154.
Nasal mask versus conventional oxygen supply for endoscopy under intravenous sedation: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ji Wentao , Deng Yu , Zheng Min , Zhang Xiaoting , Lu Jun , Liu Jinhai , Li Bo , Bo Lulong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Hypoxaemia is a frequent complication associated with endoscopy conducted under intravenous sedation, highlighting the need for effective and practical interventions. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of nasal mask oxygenation in reducing the incidence of hypoxaemia during endoscopy under intravenous sedation compared with the conventional oxygen supply.

Methods and analysis

This study strictly adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocol guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases will be electronically searched from their inception to May 2024 to identify randomised controlled trials comparing a nasal mask with conventional oxygen supply for endoscopy under intravenous sedation. The study selection, data extraction and quality assessment processes will be conducted independently by two reviewers. The risk of bias in the included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Trials, and the strength of evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation guidelines. The meta-analysis will be performed using STATA V.16.0, with effect sizes calculated using the standardised mean difference and 95% CI. Heterogeneity will be assessed using Cochran’s Q statistics, and inconsistency will be measured using I2statistics. Potential sources of bias will also be evaluated.

Ethics and dissemination

The data used for this systematic review will be exclusively extracted from published studies. Additional ethical approval and informed consent are not required. This systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and will be presented at conferences and congresses.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024545231
Endovascular arterial embolization versus conservative management with nasal packing alone for severe epistaxis: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Chen Huanwen , Khunte Mihir , Colasurdo Marco , Gunawardane Sonali , Malhotra Ajay , Gandhi Dheeraj
Published: December 2024

Background

Endovascular arterial embolization (EAE) is an effective treatment for severe epistaxis refractory to conservative management with nasal packing. However, contemporary real-world data are lacking, as are data on head-to-head comparisons of EAE versus nasal packing alone.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of the Nationwide Readmissions Database (NRD) from 2016 to 2021 in the United States. Patients with severe epistaxis treated with nasal packing alone or EAE with or without nasal packing were included and followed for 180 days. Propensity score matching (PSM) for demographics, comorbidities, and hemorrhage risk factors was performed to balance patient characteristics. Primary outcome was recurrent epistaxis. Secondary outcomes include rates of non-routine hospital discharge (indicating short-term morbidity or mortality) and ischemic stroke.

Results

25 160 patients admitted to hospital for severe epistaxis were included; 754 (3.3%) underwent EAE. After PSM, 1542 patients remained in the conservative management group, and 743 remained in the EAE group. Overall, the risk of epistaxis readmission was lower after EAE compared with conservative management (HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.87, P=0.016); the 180-day epistaxis readmission rate was 4.6% and 10.6%, respectively (P=0.024). EAE was significantly associated with lower rates of non-routine discharge (22.1% vs 28.9%, P=0.026), despite a higher rate of ischemic stroke (1.6% vs 0.4%, P=0.017).

Conclusions

For patients with severe epistaxis, EAE is associated with a significant reduction of epistaxis recurrence rates as well as lower rates of patient morbidity compared with nasal packing alone, despite a small but significant increase in risk of ischemic stroke.
Interprofessional collaboration in primary care for patients with chronic illness: a scoping review mapping leadership and followership
Authors: Zhang Guoyang , Stalmeijer Renée E , Maulina Fury , Smeenk Frank W J M , Sehlbach Carolin
Published: December 2024

Background

Effective interprofessional collaboration (IPC) in primary care is essential in providing high-quality care for patients with chronic illness. However, the traditional role-based leadership approach may hinder IPC. Instead, physicians should also take followership roles, allowing other healthcare team members (OHCTMs) to lead when they have expertise and/or experience. Understanding of leadership and followership within IPC remains limited in primary care for patients with chronic illness. Hence, this review aims to explore the definitions and conceptualisations of leadership and followership and to map relevant training in this context.

Methods

Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews, an electronic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase and Web of Science. Three independent reviewers assessed publications for eligibility. Descriptive and thematic analysis were employed.

Results

From 2194 identified articles, 57 were included. Only two articles defined leadership approaches, and none explicitly addressed followership. Nevertheless, our analysis identified leadership shifts from physicians to OHCTMs, and vice versa for followership, driven by complexity of care, physician shortages and healthcare costs. Enablers of these shifts included physician trusting OHCTMs, collaborative practice agreements and physicians’ interprofessional experience. Barriers included traditional hierarchies, OHCTMs’ lack of competence and physicians’ lack of IPC experience. Four articles mentioned relevant training however without detailed information.

Discussion

Leadership in IPC for chronic illness in primary care is rarely defined, and followership is largely neglected. Nevertheless, leadership–followership shifts do occur in leadership and followership roles of physicians and OHCTMs. Further research needs to explore physicians’ followership and relevant competencies, and relevant training is required.
Image-Binary Automata
Authors: Kiefer Stefan , Widdershoven Cas
Published: December 2024

We introduce a certain restriction of weighted automata over the rationals, called image-binary automata. We show that such automata accept the regular languages, can be exponentially more succinct than corresponding NFAs, and allow for polynomial complementation, union, and intersection. This compares favourably with unambiguous automata whose complementation requires a superpolynomial state blowup. We also study an infinite-word version, image-binary Büchi automata. We show that such automata are amenable to probabilistic model checking, similarly to unambiguous Büchi automata. We provide algorithms to translate [Formula: see text]-ambiguous Büchi automata to image-binary Büchi automata, leading to model-checking algorithms with optimal computational complexity.
Security analysis and improvement on the (T,N) threshold semiquantum secret sharing
Authors: Liu Huijuan
Published: December 2024

Seldom quantum secret sharing protocols with both the flexible (t, n) threshold and semi-quantum properties have been proposed. Recently, a novel idea of (t, n) threshold semiquantum secret sharing was proposed, which has both the (t, [Formula: see text] threshold and semi-quantum properties. Its idea can simplify the quantum secret sharing process such that many classical users with simple ability of quantum operations can realize the communication goal by cooperating with one quantum party. Furthermore, the protocol is very flexible since any t collaborators of the n classical users can reconstruct the full secret by Shamir’s threshold technology. Unfortunately, their protocol is vulnerable to the NOT-gate attack. This paper shows that an attacker can break the (t, n) threshold protocol by performing two rounds of NOT-gate attack. Then, an improved (t, n) threshold semiquantum secret sharing protocol is proposed. In the improvement scheme, each receiver can perform the eavesdropping check by measuring the Z-basis sample states. The improved protocol not only has semi-quantum properties but also can repair the security hole of the old version and has enhanced security against various quantum attacks.
Quantization of the Bateman damping system with conformable derivative
Authors: AlBanwa Tariq , Al-Jamel Ahmed , Rabei Eqab M , Al-Masaeed Mohamed Ghaleb
Published: December 2024

In this work, the conformable Bateman Lagrangian for the damped harmonic oscillator system is proposed using the conformable derivative concept. In other words, the integer derivatives are replaced by conformable derivatives of order [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. The corresponding conformable Euler–Lagrange equations of motion and fractional Hamiltonian are then obtained. The system is then canonically quantized and the conformable Schrödinger equation is constructed. The fractional-order dependence of the energy eigenvalues [Formula: see text] and eigenfunctions [Formula: see text] is obtained using suitable transformations and the extended fractional Nikiforov–Uvarov method. The corresponding conformable continuity equation is also derived and the probability density and probability current are thus suitably defined. The probability density evolution as well as its dependence on [Formula: see text] is plotted and analyzed for various situations. It is found that the energy eigenvalues are real and there are sort of gradual ordering in the behavior of the probability densities.