bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Norwegian ministries’ records centers in the public sphere
Authors: Kleve Ida-Therese
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the culture of transparency in the Norwegian ministries considering the public sphere. The research question has been as follows: to what extent do the Norwegian ministries’ records registration and transparency practices contribute to the public sphere today?

Design/methodology/approach

A follow-up study after the Norwegian Auditor General’s investigation of records management and transparency in the Norwegian ministries and at The Office of the Prime Minister in 2014–2016 is presented. The design was a case study. The methods were a combination of an interview and document research.

Findings

Registries are published faster than when the original investigation was done, which means the possibilities of debate are increased. However, wide use of confidentiality provisions may indicate that too many records are defined as belonging to the private sphere. Registration routines have improved, which may increase control of the ministries. However, this is counteracted by extensive use of exception clauses.

Originality/value

Research about the public sphere has usually dealt with the participants in public debate and places for debate. This paper broadens the perspective using data from various official sources to shed light on the role of records centers and online public records registries in the public sphere.
Revisiting fiscal performance of non-special category states of India: a global Malmquist index approach
Authors: Raju Y.N. , Dev Vishal Kumar , Mohanty Asit Ranjan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the fiscal performance of non-special category states of India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied a global Malmquist productivity index (GMPI) to measure the state fiscal performance, using eight fiscal indicators to measure the fiscal stance of 17 non-special category states of India over the period 2000–2020.

Findings

The findings reveal significant inter-state variations in all the fiscal indicators over the period. Goa, Haryana, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Jharkhand have been the best fiscal performers in recent years. The states Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Odisha present an interesting case; their fiscal performance index (productivity) score increased more than 1% during the sample period as compared to other states. This improvement is primarily associated with revenue efficiency, expenditure quality and size of capital outlay.

Research limitations/implications

The conventional Malmquist productivity index uses a geometric mean form of two contemporaneous measures of productivity change and this index faces a potential linear programming infeasibility problem in measuring cross-period directional distance functions. Therefore, productivity growth measured using indexes should be interpreted with caution. Therefore, the results obtained based on the GMPI might be missing the sensitive check.

Originality/value

This study is a pioneering initiative in India, constructing a fiscal performance index to measure and rank the non-special category states of the country based on GMPI, thus addressing limitations in previous studies on index formation techniques and selecting fiscal indicators.
Mycorrhiza‐dependent drivers of the positive rhizosphere effects on the temperature sensitivity of soil microbial respiration in subtropical forests
Authors: Zhao Xuechao , Tian Peng , Maillard François , Liu Shengen , Sun Zhaolin , Wang Qingkui , Soudzilovskaia Nadejda A.
Published: December 2024

Tree roots and their fungal symbionts mediate the response of rhizosphere soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition to climate warming, specifically the temperature sensitivity of soil microbial respiration (Q10), which is a critical parameter for projecting the magnitude of terrestrial soil C‐climate feedbacks. However, the intensity of the rhizosphere effects (RE; rhizosphere soils vs. bulk soils) on Q10 in forest soils associated with different mycorrhizal groups and their seasonal dynamics are poorly understood.

Here, we selected nine tree species associated with either arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) or ectomycorrhizal (EM) fungi in subtropical forests of China and collected bulk soil and rhizosphere soil in both the warm and cold seasons to explore the RE on Q10, respectively.

Our results showed a positive RE on Q10 (ranging from 20.1% to 87.5%) for all tree species, independent of the season. For EM tree species, the RE on Q10 was 64.5% higher in the warm season and 44.4% higher in the cold season, compared with AM tree species. The RE on Q10 of AM and EM tree species was 44.8% and 65.0% larger in the warm season than that in the cold season, respectively. Fine root traits (including biomass, the carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio, and soluble sugar content) predominantly controlled the RE on Q10 in AM‐dominated forests, whereas the RE on soil properties (such as and C availability) dominantly governed the RE on Q10 in EM‐dominated forests. Furthermore, the RE on Q10 was also positively correlated with the RE on soil microbial phospholipid fatty acids in both AM‐ and EM‐dominated forests.

These findings suggest that rhizosphere soils in EM‐dominated forests are more susceptible to C losses under climate warming than those in AM‐dominated forests, compared with their respective bulk soils, potentially limiting rhizosphere SOC sequestration. The greater vulnerability of EM‐dominated forests underscores the importance of accounting for root–soil interactions, mycorrhizal associations, and seasonal dynamics in C‐climate models to improve predictions of SOC cycling and its feedback to global warming.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Microbial Community of a Sandy Beach Subterranean Estuary is Spatially Heterogeneous and Impacted by Winter Waves
Authors: Bullington Jessica A. , Langenfeld Kathryn , Phaneuf Jacob R. , Boehm Alexandria B. , Francis Christopher A.
Published: December 2024

Subterranean estuaries (STEs) are critical ecosystems at the interface of meteoric groundwater and subsurface seawater that are threatened by sea level rise. To characterize the influence of tides and waves on the STE microbial community, we collected porewater samples from a high‐energy beach STE at Stinson Beach, California, USA, over the two‐week neap‐spring tidal transition during both a wet and dry season. The microbial community, analyzed by 16S rRNA gene (V4) amplicon sequencing, clustered according to consistent physicochemical features found within STEs. The porewater community harbored relatively abundant Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobiota, and Bacteroidota, as well as members of the archaeal DPANN superphylum and bacterial Candidate Phyla Radiation (CPR). Tidal conditions were not associated with microbial community composition; however, a wave overtopping event significantly impacted the beach microbiome. As a baseline for environmental change, our results elucidate the unique dynamics of a STE microbiome with unprecedented temporal resolution, highlighting the transport of cellular material through beach porewater due to waves.
Reflections on the 2024 General Election in Great Britain
Authors: Mckibbin Ross
Published: December 2024

This year's general election is one of the strangest since the introduction of anything like a popular franchise. In 2019, no one could have predicted convincingly that five years later the Conservative Party would have come close to collapse, the Liberal Democrats would achieve their best result since 1923 or that the Labour Party should have risen from the ashes and won 412 seats in the House of Commons. This article concerns the 2024 general election in Great Britain; Northern Ireland is mentioned, but requires separate consideration. It seeks to explain the results and considers what part the electoral system and voter turnout played in the Labour victory. In addition, it tries to assess what the consequences of the election are to the future of the political parties.
Internet Shutdowns, Sovereignty, and the Postcolonial State in Africa
Authors: Stremlau Nicole
Published: December 2024

Despite strong international condemnation, there is growing acceptance of internet shutdowns as a legitimate response to online content that governments—particularly in Africa—find concerning. This article explores government decision‐making around internet shutdowns during contentious periods such as elections and in situations of violent conflict. In arguing for a reading of shutdowns that goes beyond simply seeing them as a blunt tool of censorship, it discusses the underlying issues, including the vast inequalities between Big Tech companies based in the United States or China and resource‐poor countries in the Global South. Building on this, the article probes the intensifying disputes around who writes the rules governing how social media companies address harmful content, how such rules are implemented, and, finally, what this means for the postcolonial state in Africa. In some contexts, a government's use of shutdowns represents an effort to reassert sovereignty amid a longstanding context of contestation around borders, power, and national identity.
Saproxylic beetle assemblages exhibit distinct seasonal patterns across different decay classes of dead wood in a mixed temperate forest
Authors: Kang Ji‐Won , Byeon Ui‐Joung , Lee Seung‐Il , Park Jong‐Seok
Published: December 2024

Saproxylic organisms play a pivotal role in the decomposition of woody materials, profoundly impacting nutrient cycling within forest ecosystems. With their rich biodiversity and diverse ecological functions, saproxylic species provide unique ecological services and interactions that are closely linked to specific dead wood types.

Given the distinctive roles and diversity of saproxylic beetles, forest loss and management practices that reduce dead wood amount and quality pose a risk of greater biodiversity loss. This highlights the critical need for comprehensive research into saproxylic beetle diversity and community structures from various perspectives to support sustainable forest management strategies.

We sampled 60 Quercus logs in a temperate mixed forest during both winter and summer, and reared saproxylic beetles using emergence traps. Consequently, we collected a total of 1793 saproxylic beetles from 27 families and 75 species across three decay classes.

Season was a key environmental variable, clearly distinguishing saproxylic beetle assemblages between winter and summer. While decay class did not clearly differentiate the beetle assemblages in summer, it distinctly separated the assemblages in winter.

Our findings indicate that saproxylic beetles are influenced by changing resource availability and microclimate, driven by environmental variables such as season. This variability reveals the overlooked biodiversity potential, emphasizing the need for continuous and comprehensive research to achieve conservation goals and improve understanding of saproxylic organisms.
Pregnancy and perinatal outcomes in women with recurrent pregnancy loss—A case–control study
Authors: Hautamäki Hanna , Gissler Mika , Heikkinen‐Eloranta Jenni , Tiitinen Aila , Peuranpää Pirkko
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), defined as two or more pregnancy losses, might be associated with elevated obstetrical and perinatal risks in the following pregnancies. RPL and pregnancy problems related to placental development may have similar etiological features. This study explores the incidences of pregnancy and perinatal outcomes in women with RPL.

Material and Methods

This retrospective case–control study investigated the outcomes of the next subsequent singleton pregnancy after thorough RPL examination (n = 360) in Helsinki University Hospital, Finland, in 2007–2016. Data for cases and four control women for each case, matched for age, parity, delivery month, year, and hospital (n = 1440), were retrieved from the Medical Birth Register. Primary outcomes were pregnancy and delivery complications, perinatal outcomes, and characteristics of pregnancy follow‐up. Secondary outcomes were maternal and neonatal diagnoses. Associations between RPL and outcomes were estimated with risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI). In sub‐analyses, we compared the outcomes of secondary RPL with multipara controls and women with unexplained or explained RPL.

Results

Women with RPL had a higher risk for gestational hypertension (3.1% vs. 1.4%, risk ratio [RR] 2.20 [Confidence interval (CI) 1.06–4.55], p = 0.03), preterm birth (8.9% vs. 5.8%, RR 1.54 [CI 1.04–2.28], p = 0.04), malpresentation of the fetus (3.3% vs. 1.5%, RR 2.18 [CI 1.09–4.37], p = 0.02), premature rupture of membranes (5.6% vs. 2.4%, RR 2.35 [CI 1.37–4.04], p = 0.002), and had more prenatal visits than controls. Mode of delivery was comparable between the study groups, although RPL women had more induced labor (28.1% vs. 22.2%, RR 1.26 [CI 1.04–1.53], p = 0.02). Mean birthweight was lower (3387 ± 680 g) in RPL women's newborns than in the control group (3482 ± 564 g, p = 0.02), and the risk of umbilical artery pH <7.10 (6.7% vs. 3.6%, RR 1.85 [CI 1.15–2.95], p = 0.03) was higher. Risk ratio for small for gestational age was higher in the secondary RPL group than in multipara controls (5.1% vs. 2.0%, RR 2.50 [CI 1.15–5.42], p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Women with a history of RPL seem to have higher risks in their subsequent pregnancies and should therefore be monitored carefully. These findings support the theory of placental development being the common nominator behind hypertensive pregnancy disorders and RPL.
Dynamic duo is inseparable: Self‐compassion and compassion for others interact to predict well‐being
Authors: Chio Floria H. N. , Mak Winnie W. S. , Cheng Regina H. L.
Published: December 2024

While previous studies have examined the independent effect of self‐compassion or compassion for others on well‐being, the present study examined how self‐compassion may interact with compassion for others in predicting well‐being. Two studies were conducted. In Study 1, 457 participants completed assessments at baseline and 229 participants were retained and completed the assessment at 4‐month follow‐up. Results showed that baseline self‐compassion predicted higher levels of subsequent well‐being when baseline compassion for others was moderate or high. Study 2 recruited 147 participants and they were assigned to either the self‐compassion condition or the control condition. Results showed that participants who practiced self‐compassion for 1 week in the self‐compassion condition showed more reduction in negative affect than the control condition when baseline compassion for others was high. Findings showed that the effects of compassion for the self on one's well‐being may be contingent on one's compassion for others.
Evidence inhibitory self‐control moderates effects of habit on complex but not simple health behaviors
Authors: Phipps Daniel J. , Hagger Martin S. , Hamilton Kyra
Published: December 2024

Theoretically, self‐control can be considered as both a facilitator of habit development and a moderator of whether behavior occurs habitually. However, debate remains on the contexts in which such relationships are likely to occur. The current study tested whether self‐control, conceptualized into inhibitory and initiatory facets, would predict healthy behavior via habits or moderate the habit‐behavior relationship, and whether these effects differed across complex (bootcamp attendance N = 69, physical activity in pregnant women N = 115) and simple (flossing N = 254) behaviors. Three independent samples completed measures of self‐control and habit, followed by a prospective measure of behavior. Data were fitted to PLS‐SEM models. Inhibitory and initiatory self‐control predicted habit in all three samples, and habit in turn predicted each health behavior. Inhibitory self‐control only moderated the effect of habit in the bootcamp and physical activity samples. Initiatory self‐control did not moderate effects in any sample. Findings indicate that both initiatory and inhibitory self‐control are associated with habit. Further, as the moderating effect of inhibitory self‐control was only present in the complex behavior samples, results suggest the moderating effects of self‐control on the habit‐behavior relationship may be best represented by the effect of inhibiting competing cues from disrupting automatically activated behavioral sequences.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis: rising prevalence of colistin resistance in ICU‐acquired Gram‐negative bacteria
Authors: Li Na , Ebrahimi Elaheh , Sholeh Mohammad , Dousti Reyhane , Kouhsari Ebrahim
Published: December 2024

Colistin is a last‐resort treatment for multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacterial infections, particularly in critically ill patients. Nevertheless, it remains a major threat to public health. We assessed the proportion of colistin‐resistant Gram‐negative isolates from intensive care unit (ICU) infections in different years, areas, pathogens, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests (AST). We searched the studies in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science (until November 2021). Statistical analyses were conducted using STATA software (ver. 14.0). The overall rate of colistin resistance was 5.18% (95% CI 2.70%–8.22%). The proportion of colistin resistance was 4% (95% CI 2%–7%) before 2015 and 6% (95% CI 4%–9%) in 2015–2019. The rates of colistin resistance in Europe, America, Asia, and Africa were 8.24%, 3.78%, 3.60%, and 0%, respectively. The proportion of colistin‐resistant non‐fermenting Gram‐negative bacilli isolated from the ICU was 2.25% (Acinetobacter baumannii [1.68%] and Pseudomonas aeruginosa [3.30%]). A 4‐fold increase in colistin resistance was observed when comparing EUCAST and CLSI. We described the global epidemiology of colistin resistance over time and shown the distribution of colistin‐resistant strains in different countries. Robust antimicrobial stewardship programs can increase the success of ICU physicians in improving patient outcomes.
Atypical presentation of disseminated mycobacteriosis due to Mycobacterium avium in an aged cat
Authors: Teh A , Robertson J , Donahoe SL , Crighton T , Boyd S , Malik R
Published: December 2024

In cats, mycobacteriosis tends to present in a syndromic manner, with cases either being due to tuberculosis (TB) (in countries where TB is endemic), one of the “leprosy‐like” diseases affecting the skin and subcutis, panniculitis caused by infection of subcutaneous tissues generally with rapidly growing Mycobacteria spp. or widely disseminated granulomatous disease, which is usually caused by members of the Mycobacterium avium‐intracellulare complex (MAC). Disseminated MAC disease is rare, but when it occurs, usually develops in immunocompromised hosts with defective cell‐mediated immunity. This report describes a case of widely disseminated mycobacteriosis in a 10‐year‐old American Shorthair cat with an atypical multi‐organ distribution including rarely documented thyroid gland involvement. The cat presented for a chronic history of inappetence and weight loss. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a large mass on the left kidney, and an aspirate (FNA) from this mass showed abundant negative‐staining bacilli which were confirmed to be acid‐fast with Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) staining. This was consistent with a mycobacterial aetiology. Necropsy revealed mycobacterial granulomas and/or granulomatous inflammation in the kidneys, thyroid gland, liver, spleen, lungs and left mandibular lymph node, with abundant intralesional acid‐fast bacilli in all these tissues. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and culture on samples of all affected tissues were positive for M. avium. Collectively, the findings are consistent with disseminated mycobacteriosis due to M. avium with atypical distribution of lesions. Very likely, the cat had underlying immunodeficiency of undetermined cause, exacerbated by the administration of depot corticosteroid.
Strategies employed and experiences associated with the implementation of pharmaceutical services and interventions in geriatric wards: A scoping review
Authors: de Oliveira Alan Maicon , Rodrigues João Paulo Vilela , do Vale de Souza Isabella , Oliveira Thalita Zago , dos Santos Márcia , Varallo Fabiana Rossi , Pereira Leonardo Régis Leira
Published: December 2024

Evidence indicates a lack of clarity regarding the contributions of interventions aimed at optimizing pharmacotherapy, primarily guided by pharmaceutical care, for clinically significant improvements in older individuals. Thus, there is a need to deepen the understanding of this scenario and the factors involved. Therefore, this study aims to map and summarize scientific evidence regarding experiences and strategies employed in providing pharmaceutical services and interventions in geriatric wards. A scoping review was conducted based on 3 electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science). Studies meeting the inclusion criteria, published up to September 2024, and in English, Spanish or Portuguese were selected. Experimental and observational studies were eligible for inclusion. Screening, eligibility, extraction and assessment of the studies were carried out by 2 independent researchers. The exploration of bibliographic databases yielded 3,976 references, and 40 studies were deemed suitable for inclusion. Predominantly conducted in countries with high human development, these studies categorized services and interventions as: (i) medication review; (ii) medication reconciliation; and (iii) pharmaceutical counselling. Highlighted tools included STOPP and START criteria, Beers criteria, and the Medication Appropriateness Index, facilitating identification of issues such as potentially inappropriate medications (27.6–90.8% of older individuals using at least 1 potentially inappropriate medication), drug‐related problems (34.5–98.2% of patients with at least 1 drug‐related problem) and adverse drug events (58–88.4% of patients with at least 1 adverse drug event). The acceptance rate of interventions exhibited considerable variation (13–95.3%). Only 10 studies evaluated clinical outcomes in patients. Barriers included the need for additional training for pharmacists in geriatrics, significant time investment, lack of continuity in assessments and a lack of recognition of interventions by other members of the multiprofessional team. There is a clear trend towards improving medication prescription adequacy and contributing to the quality of pharmacotherapy through pharmaceutical services and interventions in geriatric wards. However, several gaps still need to be addressed, and this review emphasizes identifying obstacles to be overcome, providing guidance for future investigations.
Feared self and morality in obsessive‐compulsive phenomena
Authors: Yang Yoon‐Hee , Jaeger Tess , Moulding Richard
Published: December 2024

Background: Recent studies have shown that individuals with obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) tend to endorse a feared self that they perceive to be immoral, insane and/or dangerous. The current study investigated the relationship between morality‐related feared self, self‐relevance and OC‐related cognitions and behaviours such as moral deliberation, threat interpretation bias, discomfort, urge to act and likelihood of acting in OC‐relevant situations in a non‐clinical sample. Method: A total of 78 participants (27 female, Mage = 29.85, SD = 9.8) underwent a priming study. Participants had their feared‐self primed firstly via an unscrambling task in either a feared self or neutral condition and secondly via a writing task about moral transgressions. The response time for these tasks was recorded as a measurement of moral deliberation. Further, self‐relevance was primed by having half of the participants' complete tasks that referenced their actions, whereas half of the participants completed tasks that referenced others' actions. Results: It was found that participants' pre‐existing level of feared self was linked to threat interpretation bias, discomfort and urge to act in OC‐relevant situations. A primed sense of feared self and self‐relevance also demonstrated significant links to changes in OC‐relevant symptoms. Conclusion: These results indicate that environmental cues related to morality may lead to OC‐related symptoms.
Advancing the outcomes of AML out of antecedent MPN by targeting mutated IDH1
Authors: Pratz Keith W.
Published: December 2024

Outcomes of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN)‐associated acute leukaemias are dismal with conventional therapy. Approximately 20% of MPN‐associated acute leukaemias have mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH). Olutasidenib, and inhibitor of IDH1, demonstrates important clinical benefits in MPN‐associated leukaemia with IDH1 mutation.

Commentary on: Botton et al. Olutasidenib demonstrates significant clinical activity in mutated IDH1 acute myeloid leukemia arising from a prior myeloproliferative neoplasm. Br J Haematol 2024 (Online ahead of print). doi: 10.1111/bjh.19944.
New evidence on the labor market effects of scope of practice laws for physicians and nurse practitioners
Authors: Bhai Moiz , Mitchell David T.
Published: December 2024

We explore the labor market effects of state‐level scope of practice (SOP) reform for nurse practitioners that grants full practice authority (FPA) on the earnings and labor supply decisions of physicians and nurse practitioners. We employ a difference‐in‐differences research design using data from the American Community Survey between 2010 and 2019 to find that SOP laws granting FPA increase earnings of nurse practitioners and have some impacts on their labor supply. However, we find no effects on the earnings of physicians. To examine mechanisms, we use aggregated Medicare data from the Dartmouth Atlas to show no change on physician reimbursements.
Regional disparities and correlates of alcohol use during pregnancy in India: Insights from the National Family Health Survey‐5
Authors: Ghosh Abhishek , Verma Abhishek , Choudhury Shinjini , Dhawan Priyanka
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Alcohol use during pregnancy is a significant public health concern due to its adverse outcomes for the mother and developing fetus. This study aims to estimate the national and state‐wise prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy in India and examine associated social, demographic and health‐related correlates using data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS‐5) conducted in 2019–2020.

Methods

Data from NFHS‐5, a large‐scale, nationally representative survey, were analysed. The survey included comprehensive interviews with 724,115 women aged 15–49 years, covering all 28 states and 8 union territories of India. The main outcome was self‐reported alcohol use during the respondents' current or most recent pregnancy. Explanatory variables included age, economic status, education level, tribal affiliation, urban/rural residence, planned/unplanned pregnancy, adequacy of antenatal care and tobacco use. Statistical analyses included chi‐square tests for unadjusted comparisons and logistic regression for adjusted odds ratios (AOR).

Results

The prevalence of alcohol use during pregnancy was 1.26% nationally, with significant regional variations. The highest prevalence rates were in Arunachal Pradesh (13.03%), Chhattisgarh (5.77%) and Assam (5.62%). Key correlates included belonging to Scheduled Tribes (AOR 7.987, 95% CI 5.73–11.134), having no education (AOR 1.733, 95% CI 1.025–2.931) and tobacco use (AOR 3.389, 95% CI 2.647–4.338). Regional analysis showed the highest adjusted odds for the Northeast (AOR 19.753, 95% CI 4.87–80.116) region.

Discussion and Conclusions

Alcohol use during pregnancy in India shows significant regional and socio‐demographic disparities. The findings highlight the need for targeted public health interventions and policies, particularly in high‐risk groups and regions.
Hypoalbuminemia in status epilepticus is a biomarker of short‐ and long‐term mortality: A 9‐year cohort study
Authors: Misirocchi Francesco , Quintard Hervé , Rossetti Andrea O. , Florindo Irene , Sarbu Oana E. , Kleinschmidt Andreas , Schaller Karl , Seeck Margitta , De Stefano Pia
Published: December 2024

Background

Outcome prediction in Status epilepticus (SE) aids in clinical decision‐making, yet existing scores have limitations due to SE heterogeneity. Serum albumin is emerging as a readily available prognostic biomarker in various clinical conditions. This study evaluates hypoalbuminemia in predicting short‐ and long‐term mortality.

Methods

Observational cohort study including non‐hypoxic SE adult patients admitted to the University Hospital of Geneva (Switzerland) between 2015 and 2023. Primary outcomes were in‐hospital and 6‐month mortality.

Results

Four hundred and ninety‐six patients were included, 46 (9.3%) died in hospital; 6‐month outcome was available for 364 patients, 86 (23.6%) were not alive at follow‐up.

Hypoalbuminemia was associated with older age and patients' comorbidities. Binomial regression showed an independent correlation between hypoalbuminemia and short‐ (p = 0.005, OR = 3.35, 95% CI = 1.43–7.86) and long‐term mortality (p = 0.001, OR = 3.59,95% CI = 1.75–7.35).

The Status Epilepticus Severity Score (STESS) had an overall AUC of 0.754 (95% CI = 0.656–0.836) for predicting in‐hospital mortality and of 0.684 (95% CI = 0.613–0.755) for 6‐month mortality. Through an exploratory analysis, we replaced age with hypoalbuminemia in the STESS, creating the Albumin‐STESS (A‐STESS) score (0–6). The global A‐STESS AUC significantly improved for both in‐hospital (0.837, 95% CI = 0.760–0.916, p = 0.002) and 6‐month (0.739, 95% CI = 0.688–0.826; p = 0.033) mortality prediction. A‐STESS‐3 cutoff demonstrated a strong sensitivity‐specificity balance for both in‐hospital (sensitivity = 0.88, specificity = 0.68, accuracy = 0.70) and 6‐month (sensitivity = 0.67, specificity = 0.73, accuracy = 0.72) mortality.

Conclusions

Hypoalbuminemia is an easily measurable biomarker reflecting the overall patient's condition and is independently related to short‐ and long‐term SE mortality. Integrating hypoalbuminemia into the STESS (A‐STESS) significantly enhances mortality prediction. Future studies are needed to externally validate the A‐STESS and evaluate the benefits of albumin supplementation in SE patient prognosis.
Defensive Behaviour in Intertidal Crabs
Authors: Koneru Manisha , Caro Tim
Published: December 2024

Despite a long roster of prey defences against predators now documented by biologists, any given species utilises only some of them, and we have few a priori predictions as to if, when or where they will be employed. In order to uncover general trends in the way in which crabs avoid predation attempts after they have been detected, we examined the antipredator behaviour of nine intertidal decapod species on three continents. We studied five different types of defensive behaviour and seven morphological and environmental factors which might affect such behaviours at different stages of the predatory sequence. In combination with other studies, we suggest that although intertidal crabs invest a great deal in crypticity to avoid detection, once discovered, they remain immobile, raise their chelae or flee but the extent to which these and other defences are exhibited differ markedly across species. We found that luminance contrast with the background, body size, chelae size and immediate habitat in which crabs were found affected antipredator behaviour whereas neither sex, nor chromatic contrast with the background were important. Our findings broaden understanding of defensive behaviour in several decapod species and highlight how species tailor the use of the same defences in different ways according to threat, morphology and local environment.
Integrated proteomics and connectivity map‐based analysis reveal compounds with a potential antiviral effect against Japanese encephalitis virus infection in a mouse model
Authors: Soni Rohit , Soni Naina , Paul Abhijit , Tripathi Aarti , Chatterjee Samrat , Banerjee Arup
Published: December 2024

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is the leading causative agent of viral encephalitis in India and contributes to a significant disease burden in South Asian countries. However, no antiviral treatment is available against JEV‐induced encephalitis, highlighting the urgent need for novel therapeutic approaches. Repurposing or repositioning drugs was found to be more economical and practical in the current drug development scenario. The present study aimed to develop a host‐directed strategy through a computational drug repurposing approach. As part of the strategy, we first generated a dynamic signature of differentially expressed JEV infection‐associated proteins in mice brains through a semiquantitative proteomics approach. With the help of the Connectivity Map (CMap) analysis, we narrowed down the lists of drugs with a high negative CMap score (−70 or lower). Based on the CMap score, we chose the top three compounds (Tipifarnib, Ly303511 and MDL11939) with CMap scores of −91.83, −88.18 and −91.15, respectively. The antiviral potential of these three compounds was further compared in both JEV‐infected mouse neuroblastoma cells and C57BL/6 mice. Oral administration of Ly303511 and MDL11939, alone or in combination, showed improved outcomes (e.g. delayed death, increased survival, and less viral load than Tipifarnib alone or combined). The JEV‐infected mice survived upon drug treatment, effectively reducing viral load and reversing the antiviral signature. Our results highlight Ly303511 and MDL11939 as promising host‐targeted inhibitors of JEV infection and pathogenesis. Moreover, our results favor the combination of Ly303511 and MDL11939 therapy to improve clinical symptoms and reduce JEV‐induced damage, thus warranting inclusion in clinical studies.
Associations of vitamin D levels and clinical parameters with COVID‐19 infection, severity and mortality in hemodialysis patients: A cohort study
Authors: You Yanhua , Xu Chun , Hu Yuqing , Liang Meng , Sun Qi
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among patients undergoing hemodialysis. This study aimed to investigate the associations between vitamin D levels and clinical parameters with the risk of COVID‐19 infection, severity, and mortality in hemodialysis patients with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 198 hemodialysis patients from a single center. Vitamin D deficiency was defined by the last measurement of 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol less than 20 ng/mL. Vitamin D deficiency and vitamin D supplements were combined to categorize patients into three groups: deficiency, uncertain deficiency, and likely sufficient. COVID‐19 infection status, severity, and outcomes were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed to assess the associations between vitamin D levels and COVID‐19 severity and mortality.

Findings

Among the 198 patients, 73 patients (37%) were in the deficiency group, 29 patients (15%) had uncertain deficiency, and 96 patients (48%) were likely sufficient. The overall COVID‐19 infection rate was 59%. The deficiency group had a similar infection rate (60.3%) compared to those with likely sufficient levels (54.2%). However, the severity and mortality rates of vitamin D deficiency group had a significantly higher rate than those with likely sufficient levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that vitamin D deficiency and uncertain deficiency group were significantly associated with an increased risk of COVID‐19 severity (OR = 22.57, p = 0.01 and OR = 15.8, p = 0.03, respectively). Uncertain deficiency group was significantly associated with an increased risk of COVID‐19 mortality (OR = 12.93, p = 0.04), while the deficiency group should similarly trend but did not reach statistical significance.

Discussion

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of COVID‐19 severity in hemodialysis patients with ESKD. These findings suggest that monitoring and managing vitamin D levels may be important in reducing the risk of COVID‐19 severity in this vulnerable population.
Climatic stability and species turnover as potential drivers of latitudinal diversity gradients in Chilean wild bees
Authors: Núñez‐Flores Mónica , Solórzano Andrés , Monzón Víctor Hugo
Published: December 2024

This study explores the latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG) of wild bees (Hymenoptera: Anthophila) in Chile, a region with diverse climates and geographic isolation. By examining species richness patterns, this research seeks to uncover the key factors influencing these patterns in Chilean bees.

We compiled and analysed occurrence records of wild bee species from five families, evaluating species richness across latitudinal gradients. To explain the LDG, we tested hypotheses such as Rapoport's effect, the mid‐domain effect (MDE), source‐sink dynamics, and the Climatic Variability Hypothesis. Additionally, we conducted cluster analyses and beta diversity assessments to identify distinct ecoregions and understand patterns of species turnover and nestedness along these gradients.

Our analysis revealed a mid‐latitudinal peak in wild bee species richness around 34° S, consistent with the global bimodal latitudinal gradient for bees. The data did not support MDE predictions, implying that geometric constraints alone cannot explain these patterns. Instead, the positive correlation between latitudinal extent and latitude supports Rapoport's effect, indicating broader environmental tolerances at higher latitudes.

Beta diversity analyses showed that species turnover, not nestedness, drives diversity variation along latitudinal gradients, reflecting significant species replacement across latitudes due to changing environmental conditions. Cluster analyses identified distinct wild bee groups corresponding to Northern, Central, and Southern Chile ecoregions, reinforcing substantial shifts in species composition across latitudinal bands.

Our findings emphasise the importance of stable climates in supporting high bee species richness and broader environmental tolerances at higher latitudes. Understanding these patterns is vital for predicting biodiversity responses to climate change and guiding conservation strategies, especially in Chile's biodiversity hotspots with high species richness and endemism.
Synthesis of different types of calcium phosphates for the drug loading and releasing applications
Authors: Sahadat Hossain Md. , Tarannum Sakabe , Ullah Md. Anayet , Uddin Md. Najem , Bahadur Newaz Mohammed , Ahmed Samina
Published: December 2024

β‐tricalcium phosphate and various forms of hydroxyapatites (HAps) were produced through the wet chemical precipitation method, using calcium hydroxide, orthophosphoric acid, cow bone, and fish scale as raw materials. The synthesized samples underwent characterization through x‐ray diffraction, and their antimicrobial efficacy was assessed in powder form for gram‐positive Staphylococcus aureus bacteria as well as gram‐negative Escherichia coli bacteria. In vitro degradation tests were conducted using simulated body fluid after compressing the powdered samples into scaffolds and sintering at 900°C. These scaffolds were subsequently used to study drug loading and releasing over different periods. All scaffolds demonstrated strong loading capacities for amoxicillin (AMX) and ciprofloxacin (CIP), notably Rui bone HAp achieving 90.83% loading of AMX and cow bone HAp showing 98.73% loading of CIP. In contrast, both fluoride‐doped HAp types displayed significant AMX release, whereas Rui bone HAp showed the highest CIP release. The pH and conductivity of drugs and drug‐released SBF solution were examined after 21 days and 1 day, respectively.
The Effects of Universal Educational Interventions in Improving Mental Health Literacy, Depression, and Anxiety Among Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Yani Desy Indra , Chua Joelle Yan Xin , Wong John Chee Meng , Pikkarainen Minna , Shorey Shefaly
Published: December 2024

Adolescents are susceptible to developing depression and anxiety, and educational interventions could improve their mental well‐being. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of universal educational prevention interventions in improving mental health literacy, depression, and anxiety among adolescents. Eight electronic databases were searched until June 2024: Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest Dissertations, and Theses Global. Since the included studies assessed various aspects of mental health literacy, the results for mental health literacy were synthesized narratively. In contrast, a meta‐analysis using a random‐effects model was applied to the depression and anxiety outcomes. Heterogeneity was examined using I2 statistics and Cochran's Q Chi‐squared test. The Cochrane risk of bias tool and the GRADE approach conducted quality appraisal at the study and outcome levels, respectively. The review was reported according to the PRISMA guidelines. This review included 34 randomized controlled trials. Universal education prevention interventions were found to be promising in improving adolescents' mental health literacy but showed limited effects on individual mental health literacy components and on reducing depression (SMD = −0.06, 95%CI: [−0.11, −0.02], Z = 2.58, p = 0.01, I2 = 45%) and anxiety (SMD = −0.00, 95%CI: [−0.06, 0.06], Z = 0.07, p = 0.94, I2 = 58%) at post‐intervention. Future trials should consider using a hybrid delivery model utilizing health care and the non‐health care professionals. These interventions must incorporate skills‐based sessions to develop emotional regulation strategies, complemented by extended follow‐up periods that include booster sessions to reinforce learning. Given the very low quality of evidence as rated by the GRADE approach, current findings need to be interpreted with caution.
Burnout Among Primary Healthcare Nurses: A Study of Association With Depression, Anxiety and Self‐Efficacy
Authors: Hussien Rasha Mohammed , Alharbi Talal Ali F. , Alasqah Ibrahim , Alqarawi Nada , Ngo Andrew Dumale , Arafat Azza Elsayed Abd Elfatah , Alsohibani Meead Abdulaziz , Zoromba Mohamed Ali
Published: December 2024

Burnout is a significant issue among healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, due to high workloads and emotional demands. However, limited research has explored burnout among primary healthcare nurses in Saudi Arabia, who play a vital role in healthcare delivery. This study aims to address this gap by investigating burnout levels and their association with anxiety, depression and self‐efficacy among primary healthcare nurses. A cross‐sectional survey design was employed, with 161 primary healthcare nurses from the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Patient Health Questionnaire‐4 and the General Self‐Efficacy Scale. Pearson correlation and logistic regression were used to analyse the associations between study variables. A high prevalence of burnout risk (78.9%) was observed. Emotional exhaustion was detected in 35.4%, depersonalisation in 44.7% and low personal accomplishment in 57.8%. Anxiety (r = 0.707, p < 0.01) and depression (r = 0.564, p < 0.01) were positively correlated with emotional exhaustion, while self‐efficacy was negatively correlated (r = −0.260, p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that anxiety (OR = 5.784, 95% CI: 2.056–16.269) and low self‐efficacy (OR = 6.625, 95% CI: 2.979–14.737) were significant predictors of burnout. Targeted interventions are essential to mitigate burnout among primary healthcare nurses. Specific measures could include mindfulness‐based stress reduction programmes to address emotional exhaustion, peer support sessions to reduce depersonalisation and skill‐building workshops to enhance self‐efficacy. These interventions can improve nurse well‐being and ensure sustainable healthcare delivery in primary care settings.
Empowering Primary Care Nurse Practitioners: A Multilevel Approach to Combating the Opioid Crisis
Authors: Coffee Zhanette , Speight Chandra , Reyes‐Walsh Lisa , Foreman Jennifer , Davis‐Dick Lorrie , Vanderah Todd W. , Gordon Judith S.
Published: December 2024

Aims

We offer a literature‐driven, empirically informed, and highly warranted recommendation for a multilevel approach tailored to nurse practitioners. This approach aimed to drive change at the individual level (nurse practitioner), dyadic level (nurse–patient therapeutic relationship), and systems level (organisational culture, education, and policy) to strengthen nurse practitioners' capacity to deliver optimal opioid use disorder care.

Background

The opioid overdose epidemic is a global public health crisis, with the United States facing the most severe impact. Access to evidence‐based treatment for opioid use disorder remains a significant barrier. Primary care nurse practitioners can play a crucial role in expanding access and bridging the treatment gap. Addressing factors influencing access to, quality of, and effectiveness of treatment requires urgent and careful consideration.

Design

This position paper highlights the multilevel barriers that inhibit nurse practitioners in managing opioid use disorder, negatively impacting treatment access and opioid use disorder‐related outcomes.

Method

The Advanced Practice Provider conceptual model was adapted to guide this paper. This adapted model illustrates the interconnected layers among nurse practitioners, clinical care, education, professional development, and organisational culture and policy in caring for patients with opioid use disorder.

Conclusions

Equipping primary care nurse practitioners with the necessary tools to both understand opioid addiction and empower patients experiencing it can have a profound impact. This impact benefits the provider and patient and extends to addressing the opioid crisis at multiple levels. Future research should explore nurse practitioners' experiences when working with individuals with opioid use disorder, identify barriers that hinder positive interactions with patients seeking treatment, and pragmatically test and implement multilevel interventions designed to holistically benefit providers and patient outcomes.

Impact to Nursing

This American‐based reflection offers valuable insights to nurse practitioners worldwide as they consider effective strategies for addressing opioid use disorder in primary care settings.