bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender disparity regarding the impact of retirement on marital satisfaction: Evidence from a longitudinal study of older Korean adults
Authors: Hwang In Cheol , Ahn Hong Yup , Park Yujin
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate the impact of retirement on marital satisfaction by gender on Koreans aged >45 years in a large, nationally representative cohort.

Methods

Retirement status and marital satisfaction data of 5867 individuals were analysed. Marital dissatisfaction was defined as a satisfaction score reduction of more than 10 points versus the previous wave. Lagged generalised estimating equation (GEE) models adjusted for demographics (age, sex, education level and household income), health‐related habits (smoking and drinking status) and comorbidities (obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and depression and frailty) were used to confirm the relationship between retirement and marital dissatisfaction.

Results

The final GEE model adjusted for covariates revealed sex‐specific differences in marital satisfaction after retirement. Whereas male retirees reported higher satisfaction than non‐retired men, female retiree responses revealed lower satisfaction than non‐retired women. Furthermore, these trends were consistent regardless of the time elapsed after retirement.

Conclusions

Marital satisfaction should be screened in women during the transition to retirement.
When decolonization is hijacked
Authors: Shah Alpa
Published: September 2024

This article asks how we should reconceptualize decolonization when it is hijacked by authoritarian/fascist forces. It focuses on the notorious Bhima Koregaon case in India in which 16 intellectuals/human rights defenders from across the country were imprisoned without trial as alleged terrorists. It shows how, on the one hand, decolonization is hijacked by the Hindu authoritarian regime and, on the other hand, colonial artifacts are resymbolized by the colonized to oppose oppression by native elites. It urges attention to the questions of who is mobilizing the language of decolonization and why. It argues that the most important anticolonial intellectuals may not use the language of decolonization and may not be in universities, but on the streets, with social movements, and in prison. It proposes that contemporary decolonization debates center processes of domination and oppression created by the state and global capital nexus, processes that are cultural, psychological, political, and economic. These processes are shown to entrench casteist/racist hierarchies, work through Indigenous elites, and create internal differentiation within marginalized communities, eschewing a unitary concept of indigenous ontology/cosmopolitics/worldviews. Calls for an emancipatory politics, such as that of decolonizing anthropology or the university, would be well placed to center these global processes and local nuances.
Outcomes of pregnancies with varying levels of nuchal translucency measurements: A population‐based retrospective study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Bellai‐Dussault Kara , Dougan Shelley D. , Fell Deshayne B. , Lavin Venegas Carolina , Little Julian , Meng Lynn , Okun Nan , Walker Mark , Armour Christine M. , Potter Beth K.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Nuchal translucency prenatal ultrasound is widely used to screen for chromosomal abnormalities. An elevated nuchal translucency has been associated with adverse outcomes such as pregnancy loss; however, extant studies investigating these associations have had important limitations, including selection bias. This study aimed to investigate the association between nuchal translucency measurements and pregnancy outcome, specifically, a composite of pregnancy loss, termination, stillbirth, or neonatal death.

Material and Methods

This was a population‐based retrospective cohort study conducted with data from the prescribed perinatal registry in Ontario, Canada, Better Outcomes Registry & Network. All singleton pregnancies with an estimated date of delivery from September 1, 2016, to March 31, 2021, and multiple marker screening including a nuchal translucency were included. Pregnancies with measurements 2.0‐ < 2.5 mm, 2.5‐ < 3.0 mm, 3.0‐ < 3.5 mm, 3.5‐ < 5.0 mm, 5.0‐ < 6.5 mm, and ≥6.5 mm were compared to a reference group with measurements <2.0 mm. We used multivariable modified Poisson regression models with robust variance estimation to estimate associations between nuchal translucency measurement and pregnancy outcome, with adjustment for age at estimated date of delivery and gestational age at screening.

Results

There were 414 268 singleton pregnancies included in the study. The risk of pregnancy loss, termination, stillbirth, or neonatal death increased with increasing levels of nuchal translucency measurements, with an adjusted risk ratio (aRR) of 11.9 (95% confidence interval (CI) 9.9, 14.3) in the group with measurements 3.5‐ < 5.0 mm. When pregnancies with diagnosed chromosomal abnormalities were excluded, this association remained strong, with an aRR of 6.4 (95% CI 4.8, 8.5). Among pregnancies with a live birth, those with a higher nuchal translucency measurement (>5.0 mm vs. <2.0 mm) were also at increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes such as admission to the neonatal intensive care unit and APGAR score <7.

Conclusions

In this population‐based study using robust methods to reduce the risk of selection bias, we found that pregnancies with increased nuchal translucency measurements are less likely to result in a live birth, even with the exclusion of chromosomal abnormalities. Pregnancies with increased nuchal translucency measurements that resulted in a live birth may also be at increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes.
Modeling individual differences in vocabulary development: A large‐scale study on Japanese heritage speakers
Authors: Kubota Maki , Rothman Jason
Published: September 2024

This study examines when the vocabulary knowledge of Japanese heritage speakers (HSs; N = 427, Mage = 9.96, female = 213) begins to diverge from monolingual counterparts (N = 136, Mage = 6.69, female = 65) and what factors explain individual differences in HS development. Vocabulary of HSs began to diverge from 5.61 years and this difference lasted until they were young adults. We also administered a fit‐for‐purpose questionnaire in 2021–2023 and identified six experiential latent factors: Holiday, School, Community, Proficiency, Literacy, and Home. Structural modeling indicates that Holiday predicted vocabulary scores, while Holiday and Literacy predicted Proficiency. Our findings highlight the importance of immersion experiences and literacy engagement for heritage language development.
Convergence and divergence of empathic concern and empathic happiness in early childhood: Evidence from young infants and children
Authors: Zach Maya , Palgi‐Hacker Avigail , Israeli‐Ran Liat , Meidan Adi , Seidmann Michal , Hijleh Ayah , Y. Birnbaum Ramon , Gueron‐Sela Noa , Uzefovsky Florina
Published: September 2024

While most research focused on empathic responses to negative emotions, little is known about empathy to positive emotions. We aimed to bridge this gap by examining infants' and children's empathic responses to distress and happiness, while differentiating between cognitive and emotional empathy. We conducted three studies with N = 119 3‐month‐old infants; N = 169 10‐19 months‐old infants; and N = 61 24‐60 months‐old children (all Jewish‐Israeli). Empathy was measured using experimenter simulations (studies 1 and 3) or peer‐video (study 2). All studies showed that cognitive empathy to positive and negative emotions converged (small‐medium effect size), but not so for emotional empathy. This suggests that understanding others' emotions is independent of emotion valence, while the ability to share in another's emotion is valence‐specific.
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Educational Leadership Scale for Faculty Members: Insights From the Network Analysis Perspective
Authors: Aldighrir Wafa Mohammed
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Educational Leadership Scale for Faculty Members (ELSF) in Arabic. The scale was rigorously tested using both traditional methods—exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)—as well as advanced network techniques, including exploratory graph analysis (EGA) and centrality measures. The study sample consisted of 350 faculty members (56% male, 44% female) from various universities, with a mean age of 42.3 years (SD = 7.8). Participants represented a range of academic disciplines, and all were involved in educational leadership roles within their respective institutions. EFA revealed a five‐factor structure that explained 68.4% of the total variance. CFA further confirmed the model's adequacy, with fit indices showing a good model fit (CFI = 0.95, TLI = 0.94, RMSEA = 0.06). The ELSF, comprising 22 items across these five dimensions, demonstrated strong internal consistency, with a Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.89. Additionally, EGA supported the factor structure identified by traditional methods, reinforcing the stability and consistency of the scale. Centrality measures highlighted Item 18 as the most influential, with betweenness, closeness and strength centrality scores of 0.45, 0.78 and 0.62, respectively, within the ‘Research‐Ethical Leadership’ subscale. These findings affirm the ELSF's credibility as a robust tool for assessing educational leadership among faculty members. The scale's strong psychometric properties suggest it is well‐suited for application in diverse academic settings, including potential use across Arabic‐speaking countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Oman and Kuwait.
Women Academics Forgo Childbirth for Career Progression? Performances of Their Body Boundaries
Authors: Bao Li
Published: September 2024

In recent decades, research has explored tension between women academics' motherhood and institutional discourse. This study, however, delves into the performances of nine Chinese women academics who are mothers and their body boundaries between motherhood and career progression based on semistructured interview data, using thematic analysis driven by the Butlerian theoretical concept of bodies. This approach contributes to a more nuanced understanding of academic mothers in the Chinese higher education context. The findings show that academic mothers strategically perform their bodies by maintaining, crossing and disciplining their body boundaries to satisfy social and institutional discourses. The findings reveal that academic mothers constantly face the tension between career expectations and motherhood. This study has implications for policy makers in academia, higher education institutions and women academics.
The Importance of Graduates' Perceived Network Quality in Their Transition to Work: A Longitudinal Approach
Authors: De Schepper Ayla , Kyndt Eva , Clycq Noel
Published: September 2024

To navigate the labour market graduates turn to their social network for valuable resources. However, existing disparities in accessing and exerting network resources may result in more precarious transition outcomes for first‐generation graduates. To gain deeper insight into how social networks facilitate the transition process, this study focuses on the network actors and resources that are perceived as valuable by graduates. Over a 4‐month period commencing at graduation, 22 graduates, encompassing both first‐generation and continuing‐generation students, were bi‐weekly tasked with mapping their social networks. Results show that graduates rely strongly on close contacts, making graduates dependent on the experience of their parents with a certain field of work, which often results in an implicit advantage for continuing‐generation graduates. Moreover, higher education institutions fail to use their power to embed valuable institutional resources or network actors into graduates' networks after graduation, which creates limited opportunity structures, in particular, for first‐generation graduates.
Learning Difficulties of Students With Dyslexia in Spanish and UK Schools
Authors: Anguita‐Acero Juana María , Navarro‐Martinez Oscar , Jordan Lauren Rebecca
Published: September 2024

At present, developmental dyslexia is classified as a specific language disorder recognised by inclusive educational laws in Spain and the United Kingdom. Phonological correspondence is very different in Spanish and in English, and the difficulties they entail for native speakers are also different. The predominance of English worldwide has led to the establishment of bilingual Spanish–English educational programs in Spain in ESL or bilingual Spanish–English learning environments. Students with dyslexia face greater challenges than their classmates. A comparative study of British and Spanish students with dyslexia that uses a quantitative methodology, and a pre‐experimental ex post facto design was carried out to detect the specific linguistic problems they faced in learning their respective languages, with the objective of using the results to help foreign language teachers in Spain. The sample consisted of 29 Spanish students and 19 British. The findings show that native students from United Kingdom have specific difficulties in phonological processing and grapheme‐phoneme correspondence. Native Spanish students enrolled in foreign language programmes seem to have similar difficulties. To ensure the effectiveness of present‐day inclusive education laws in Spain, the knowledge acquired regarding the specific language‐related literacy problems of students with dyslexia must be incorporated to the current foreign language programmes.
Prize‐Based Learning in an Introductory Computer Course—A Case Study
Authors: Vogel Joyce , Bouhnik Dan
Published: September 2024

Introduction to Computer Science is traditionally the first course that all computer science and software engineering majors take. The course introduces many problem‐solving techniques which can be challenging for many freshman students. In order to mitigate some of the issues of this course, we, at the Higher Education Institute, introduced a new prerequisite course, Introduction to Programming Logic, which is a required course for all students who have not taken any previous computer science course. In the Summer Session of 2022, we included prize‐based learning in one of the sections of the course. Prize‐based learning is similar to both problem‐based learning and project‐based learning in many aspects, including the principle of student‐centred learning. However, it differs with respect to the motivation for student success. This approach utilises the students' ambition to win, to encourage students to work harder and learn more both inside as well as outside the classroom.
A cooperative methodology for multi‐roller automation in pavement construction considering trajectory planning and collaborative operation
Authors: Wu Difei , Zhong Sheng , Leong Man Io , Li Yishun , Tian Boyuan , Liu Chenglong , Du Yuchuan
Published: September 2024

Intelligent compaction, particularly fully autonomous compaction, has emerged as a widely accepted innovative technology for enhancing compaction quality and efficiency. When multiple rollers are concurrently engaged in compaction within the same region, the trajectory planning for each roller and cooperative control become pivotal factors in ensuring efficient and safe compaction. This paper presents a comprehensive methodology framework for achieving safe and efficient cooperative operations in multi‐roller automation application. Initially, conventional rollers are retrofitted with autonomous functionality, allowing them to automatically follow preset trajectories through a tracking control algorithm. A trajectory planning method is then proposed, tailored for multi‐roller operations. Subsequently, a series of cooperative control strategies are outlined to determine the optimal timing for executing compaction tasks. Additionally, a cooperative control strategy is proposed for multi‐roller operations, known as “move forward and backward together” control, which ensures the rollers initiate and cease movement without colliding. Finally, the proposed trajectory planning method and cooperative control strategies are validated through field tests conducted on a 100‐m‐long, 12‐m‐wide compaction test site. These tests include single‐roller trials, two‐roller‐in‐a‐row experiments, and multi‐roller cooperation tests. The average trajectory tracking error is maintained below 15 cm, and the effectiveness of the control strategies is demonstrated.
Effects of exercise interventions on cancer‐related fatigue in children with cancer: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Siyu , Li Mengqiao , Wu Yuchen , Guan Qianlin , Zhang Ruixing
Published: September 2024

Background

Cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) emerges as a common symptom in pediatric cancer patients during treatment. Exercise interventions are increasingly being used as CRF interventions to improve CRF in children with cancer.

Aim

The objective of this meta‐analysis was to synthesize the best available evidence concerning the effectiveness of exercise interventions for cancer‐related fatigue in children with cancer.

Methods

Six databases were extensively searched from inception to December 2023 to identify relevant randomized controlled trials. The risk of bias and methodological quality were assessed using the Cochrane appraisal tool. Pooled effects were calculated using a random‐effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I

2
test.

Results

Eight trials (n = 465) were finally included. Exercise was statistically more effective than conventional care in improving CRF in children with cancer (SMD = −0.62, 95% CI [−1.21, −0.03]) with high statistical heterogeneity (p = .004; I

2
 = 86%). The results of the subgroup analysis showed that intervention duration <12 weeks (p < .05), exercise frequency ≥ 3 times/week (p < .05), and exercise duration <45 min/time (p < .05) were more effective in improving CRF in children with cancer.

Linking Evidence to Action

Our results suggest that exercise interventions are effective in reducing CRF in children with cancer. We recommend exercise frequency ≥ 3 times/week, exercise duration <45 min/time, and intervention duration <12 weeks.
Foreign Migrants in the Moscow Agglomeration: Spatio-Temporal Analysis Based on Mobile Network Operator Data
Authors: Babkin R. A. , Makhrova A. G. , Medvednikova D. M.
Published: September 2024

Using mobile network operator data, the study analyzes the modern ethnic landscape of the Moscow agglomeration formed by foreign migrants. Their total number and monthly dynamics from October 2021 to October 2022 were analyzed. Foreigners’ main areas of residence were identified, the ethnic diversity of municipalities was assessed, and the main types of settlement pattern of national-ethnic communities were identified. The study showed that the total number of foreign migrants in the agglomeration reaches 1.8 mln people, or 9% of the total population, remaining almost unchanged against the backdrop of the events of 2022, including the special military operation. The share of foreigners is minimal in closed administrative-territorial units (below 3%), and it is also small in the remote parts of Moscow Region, as well as in expensive areas of the capital. At the same time, eight municipalities in the agglomeration have crossed the 17% mark, the so-called tipping point, reflecting a sharp increase in the risks of interethnic conflicts and ghettoization of the urban space. The two most noticeable areas of increased concentration of foreign migrants have been identified in the southeast at the junction of Moscow and Moscow oblast (Lublino–Kotelniki) and in New Moscow (Mosrentgen–Sosenskoe). Calculation of the Ekkel’ ethnic mosaic index has confirmed the presence of pronounced interethnic contact zones here. Elevated index values were also noted in most areas of the center and southwest of the capital, which, with a lower share of foreign residents, is associated with a high density of office buildings, diplomatic institutions, and universities. Analysis of the settlement patterns of national-ethnic groups of migrants revealed three types determined in accordance with the adaptive capabilities of ethnic communities. A diffuse, relatively uniform settlement pattern is characteristic of both the largest ethnic groups (citizens of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan) and those most culturally close to the local population (immigrants from Ukraine and Belarus). A concentric settlement pattern (in residential areas of Moscow and satellite cities) is typical of relatively large ethnic groups from post-Soviet countries (citizens of Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Georgia). The local type is characteristic of small ethnic communities that gravitate towards certain areas of the capital.
ANCA-negative granulomatosis polyangiitis: an airway emergency
Authors: Rachel Rajan Nita , Brown Nina , O'Riordan Edmond , Gadepalli Chaitanya
Published: September 2024

Granulomatosis polyangiitis (GPA) is an autoimmune condition causing inflammation of small blood vessels. It is a rare disorder that may affect various parts of the body. The diagnosis is often based on clinical examination, laboratory investigations and tissue biopsy. In about 10–20% of patients, the anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) can be negative, and histology maybe inconclusive, which can lead to diagnostic uncertainty. Failure to treat vasculitis can lead to morbidity and even mortality. We present a case report of a gentleman who was presented with an airway emergency with inflammation of the nasal cavity and subglottic involvement amounting to airway stenosis. His ANCA was negative and tissue biopsy from the subglottis was inconclusive. He underwent urgent dilatation of his airway, local therapies to the nose and was commenced on 10 cycles of cyclophosphamide. A follow-up of over 4 years has not shown any relapse of his disease clinically or biochemically. We discuss the clinical findings, diagnostic dilemma and multidisciplinary management of this life-threatening condition.
Tracheal airway obstruction induced by a large glomangioma: discussion of management and literature review
Authors: Hallak Bassel , Yerly Stephane , Bouayed Salim , Zidi Lynda
Published: September 2024

Glomus tumours (GTs) are rare benign neoplasms arising from modified smooth muscle cells (SMCs) surrounding arteriovenous anastomosis. Typically, these tumours are found in the distal portion of the digits, especially under the fingernails. A GTs originating from the trachea is extremely rare. We are presenting the case of a Caucasian man in his early 80s, presenting with upper airway obstruction and massive bleeding caused by a large tracheal tumour to which final diagnosis of glomangioma of the trachea was retained. Methods of diagnostics, management and follow-up are documented. The incidence of GTs accounts about 1.6% of soft tissue tumours, and they are mainly located in dermal and subcutaneous tissue but can be equally find throughout the body. However, tracheal glomus tumours are the most clinically significant as they can be malignant and cause life-threatening condition through central airway obstruction. Histological analysis provides certainty of diagnosis, and surgical resection is the main treatment option.
Quantifying the effects of attacks on health facilities on health service use in Northwest Syria: a case time series study from 2017 to 2019
Authors: Burbach Ryan , Tappis Hannah , Abbara Aula , Albaik Ahmad , Almhawish Naser , Rubenstein Leonard S , Hamze Mohamed , Gasparrini Antonio , Rayes Diana , Haar Rohini J
Published: September 2024

Background

Throughout the Syrian conflict, the Syrian government has intentionally attacked health facilities, violating International Humanitarian Law. Previous studies have qualitatively described health system disruptions following attacks on healthcare or established associations between armed conflict and health service utilisation, but there are no quantitative studies exploring the effects of health facility attacks. Our unprecedented study addresses this gap by quantifying the effects of health facility attacks on health service use during the Syrian conflict.

Methods

This retrospective observational study uses 18 537 reports capturing 2 826 627 consultations from 18 health facilities in northwest Syria and 69 attacks on these facilities. The novel study applies case time series design with a generalised non-linear model and stratification by facility type, attack mechanism and corroboration status.

Results

The study found significant, negative associations between health facility attacks and outpatient, trauma and facility births. On average, a health facility attack was associated with 51% and 38% reductions in outpatient, RR 0.49 (95% CI 0.43 to 0.57) and trauma consultations, RR 0.62 (95% CI 0.53 to 0.72), the day after an attack, with significant reductions continuing for 37 and 20 days, respectively. Health facility attacks were associated with an average 23% reduction in facility births, the second day after an attack, RR 0.77 (95% CI 0.66 to 0.89), with significant reductions continuing for 42 days.

Conclusions

Attacks on health facilities in northwest Syria are strongly associated with significant reductions in outpatient, trauma and facility births. These attacks exacerbate the adverse effects of armed conflict and impede the fundamental right to health. The findings provide evidence that attacks on health facilities, violations of international humanitarian law by themselves, also negatively affect human rights by limiting access to health services, underscoring the need to strengthen health system resilience in conflict settings, expand systematic reporting of attacks on healthcare and hold perpetrators accountable.
Community engagement and local governance for health equity through trust: lessons from developing the CONNECT Initiative in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Authors: Kubota Shogo , Elliott Elizabeth M , Ounaphom Phonepaseuth , Phrasisombath Ketkesone , Sounthone Xaymongkhonh Vilaythone , Phimmachak Laty , Souksavanh Ounkham , Volaot Khanphoungeune , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Haenssgen Marco J , Horiuchi Sayaka , Bode Sandra , Odugleh-Kolev Asiya , Seal William Robert Everett , Lo Ying-Ru Jacqueline
Published: September 2024

Community engagement and local governance are important components of health interventions aiming to empower local populations. Yet, there is limited evidence on how to effectively engage with communities and codevelop interventions, especially in Southeast Asian contexts. Despite rapid progress, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) still has high maternal and child mortality, with essential service coverage showing significant disparities across socioeconomic strata. Long-standing challenges in community health were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and reinforced by poor trust between users and health providers. However, the pandemic also provided an opportunity to develop approaches for enhanced community engagement and local governance capacity to tackle health inequities. The Community Network Engagement for Essential Healthcare and COVID-19 Responses through Trust (CONNECT) Initiative, developed by the Lao PDR government, WHO and partners, has resulted in initial positive outcomes in community health such as increased vaccination uptake, facility births and trust in health providers. This case study describes the iterative, adaptive process by which the CONNECT Initiative was developed, and how the core components, key stakeholders, theory of change and evaluation framework evolved from grounded observations and hypotheses. Lessons learnt include (1) awareness of entry points and existing structures to strengthen local governance for health through mutually beneficial intersectoral collaboration; (2) building relationships and trust with an adaptive, grounds-up approach for sustainability and scalability. As a model which can be adapted to other settings, this case study provides evidence on how to engage with communities, strengthen local governance and codevelop interventions towards greater health equity.
Harnessing digital footprint data for population health: a discussion on collaboration, challenges and opportunities in the UK
Authors: Burgess Romana , Dolan Elizabeth , Poon Neo , Jenneson Victoria , Pontin Francesca , Sivill Torty , Morris Michelle , Skatova Anya
Published: September 2024

Digital footprint data are inspiring a new era in population health and well-being research. Linking these novel data with other datasets is critical for future research wishing to use these data for the public good. In order to succeed, successful collaboration among industry, academics and policy-makers is vital. Therefore, we discuss the benefits and obstacles for these stakeholder groups in using digital footprint data for research in the UK. We advocate for policy-makers’ inclusion in research efforts, stress the exceptional potential of digital footprint research to impact policy-making and explore the role of industry as data providers, with a focus on shared value, commercial sensitivity, resource requirements and streamlined processes. We underscore the importance of multidisciplinary approaches, consumer trust and ethical considerations in navigating methodological challenges and further call for increased public engagement to enhance societal acceptability. Finally, we discuss how to overcome methodological challenges, such as reproducibility and sharing of learnings, in future collaborations. By adopting a multiperspective approach to outlining the challenges of working with digital footprint data, our contribution helps to ensure that future research can navigate these challenges effectively while remaining reproducible, ethical and impactful.
Understanding bidirectional and transactional processes of child eating behaviours and parental feeding practices explaining poor health outcomes across infancy and early childhood in Australia: protocol for the Longitudinal Assessment of Children’s Eating (LACE) study
Authors: Burnett Alissa J , Downing Katherine L , Russell Catherine G
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Child eating behaviours develop through interactions between the child’s characteristics, psychological factors and the child’s social environment and this affects the child’s diet and weight. To examine the currently existing birth cohort studies examining child eating behaviours, a review was conducted. There are currently no birth cohorts that concurrently examine child eating behaviours, dietary intake, growth and parental feeding practices from birth into early childhood. Therefore, the primary objective of the Longitudinal Assessment of Children’s Eating (LACE) study is to examine the bidirectional and transactional processes of child eating behaviours and parental feeding practices explaining poor dietary intake and excess weight across infancy and early childhood.

Methods and analysis

The LACE study will be a prospective, longitudinal parent-reported study following infants from younger than 4 months of age across nine waves of data collection: younger than 4 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 18 months, 2 years, 3 years and 5 years. Participants will be included if they are parents of infants younger than 4 months, 18 years or older, fluent in English and living in Australia at baseline. A sample size of 1210 is proposed. Participants will be recruited online via paid social media (Facebook and Instagram) advertisements. The study will examine child eating behaviours, body mass index Z-score, dietary intake, screen time, temperament, parent feeding practices and styles, and demographics. The data will be obtained using the online survey software Qualtrics. Data analyses will be conducted using Stata.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by the Deakin University Human Ethics Advisory Group, Faculty of Health (HEAG-H 120_2022). The findings from this study will be disseminated via presentations at scientific conferences and published manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals. Findings will be disseminated to the general public via mainstream media and to participants of the study with a summary of the findings.
The iSEARCH randomised controlled trial protocol: a pragmatic Australian phase III clinical trial of intrapartum sildenafil citrate to improve outcomes potentially related to intrapartum hypoxia
Authors: Kumar Sailesh , Tarnow-Mordi William , Mol Ben W , Flenady Vicki , Liley Helen , Badawi Nadia , Walker Susan P , Hyett Jonathan , Seidler Lene , Callander Emily , O'Connell R
Published: September 2024

Introduction

We showed in a phase II randomised controlled trial (RCT) that oral sildenafil citrate in term labour halved operative birth for fetal distress. We outline the protocol for a phase III RCT (canintrapartumSildEnafil safelyAvert theRisks ofContraction-inducedHypoxia? (iSEARCH)) of 3200 women in Australia to assess if sildenafil citrate reduces adverse perinatal outcomes related to intrapartum hypoxia.

Methods and analysis

iSEARCH will enrol 3200 Australian women in term labour to determine whether up to three 50 mg oral doses of sildenafil citrate versus placebo reduce the relative risk of a primary composite end point of 10 perinatal outcomes potentially related to intrapartum hypoxia by 35% (from 7% to 4.55%). Secondary aims are to evaluate reductions in the relative risk of emergency caesarean section or instrumental vaginal birth for fetal distress by 25% (from 20% to 15%) and in healthcare costs. To detect a 35% reduction in the primary outcome for an alpha of 0.05 and power of 80% with 10% dropout in each arm requires 3200 women (1600 in each arm). This sample size will also yield >90% power to detect a 25% reduction for the secondary outcome of any operative birth (caesarean section or instrumental vaginal birth) for fetal distress.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the iSEARCH RCT was granted by the Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee (ref no: 2020/ETH02791). Results will be disseminated through websites, peer-reviewed publications, scientific meetings and social media, news outlets, television and radio.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12621000231842.
Effects of reducing sedentary behaviour on back pain, paraspinal muscle insulin sensitivity and muscle fat fraction and their associations: a secondary analysis of a 6-month randomised controlled trial
Authors: Norha Jooa , Sjöros Tanja , Garthwaite Taru , Laine Saara , Verho Tiina , Saunavaara Virva , Laitinen Kirsi , Houttu Noora , Hirvonen Jussi , Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Sievänen Harri , Löyttyniemi Eliisa , Vasankari Tommi , Kalliokoski Kari , Heinonen Ilkka
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Sedentary behaviour (SB) is a plausible intervention target for back pain mitigation. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of a 6-month SB reduction intervention on back pain and related disability outcomes, and paraspinal muscle (ie, erector spinae and transversospinales separately) insulin sensitivity (glucose uptake, GU) and muscle fat fraction (FF).

Methods

Sixty-four adults with overweight or obesity and metabolic syndrome were randomised into intervention (n=33) and control (n=31) groups. The intervention group aimed to reduce SB by 1 hour/day (measured with accelerometers) and the control group continued as usual. Back pain intensity and pain-related disability were assessed using 10 cm Visual Analogue Scales and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire. Paraspinal muscle GU was measured using 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography during hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp. FF was measured using MRI.

Results

Pain-related disability increased during the intervention in both groups. Back pain intensity increased significantly more in the control group than in the intervention group in which back pain intensity remained unchanged (group×time p=0.030). No statistically significant between-group changes in pain-related disability, ODI or paraspinal GU and FF were observed. In the whole study group, the change in daily steps was associated positively with the change in paraspinal muscle GU.

Conclusion

An intervention focusing on SB reduction may be feasible for preventing back pain worsening regardless of paraspinal muscle GU or FF.

Trial registration number

NCT03101228.
Association of ambient air pollution and Air Quality Index with risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wu Qiong , Ding Yuancheng , Ding Bixiao , Zhu Hao , Wu Zhen , Wu Hao
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To explore the associations of air pollutants and Air Quality Index (AQI) with risk of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL)

Design

Cross-sectional study

Setting

Medical record data and local population data collected between 2014 and 2022 in Changshu, China were retrospectively reviewed.

Participants

Adults aged 18 years and above who were diagnosed with SSNHL in Changshu No. 1 People’s Hospital or Changshu No. 2 People’s Hospital from the spring of 2014 to the fall of 2022 were included in the study.

Outcome measure

SSNHL was diagnosed by clinicians using the Chinese diagnostic criteria for SSNHL.

Results

Compared with those exposed to the lowest tertile of carbon monoxide (CO), the prevalence ratio for those exposed to middle and high tertiles of CO were 1.113 (95% CI 1.022 to 1.213) and 1.230 (95% CI 1.105 to 1.369), respectively. The risk of SSNHL was increased by 30.6% (95% CI 9.9% to 55.4%) per doubling increment of CO. No categorical association was found between ozone (O3) exposure and risk of SSNHL, however, an increased risk of 22.2% (0.8%–48.2%) was identified for each doubling of O3. No association was identified between other pollutants and AQI and risk of SSNHL.

Conclusions

In this study, CO and O3were associated with an increased risk of SSNHL in Changshu, China. Further studies are warranted to confirm our findings.
Predictive factors associated with health-related quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer in Iran: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dahouri Amirmohammad , Sahebihagh Mohammad Hasan , Gilani Neda
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study aims to identify the primary factors influencing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), hypothesising that specific patient characteristics and clinical factors significantly impact HRQoL.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study conducted over 1 month, from 1 April 2022 to 1 May 2022.

Setting

The study was conducted in five hospitals in the northwest region of Iran, focusing on outpatient chemotherapy services.

Participants

A total of 251 patients diagnosed with colon and rectal cancer participated in the study. Inclusion criteria included a confirmed diagnosis by an oncologist, ability to communicate, willingness to participate and being aware of their diagnosis and treatment. Exclusion criteria were the presence of other chronic diseases, cognitive disorders, known mental disorders and unwillingness to participate.

Interventions

No interventions were applied as this was an observational study.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the HRQoL of patients with CRC, measured using a standardised SF-36 (36-Item Short Form Health Survey) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included the impact of demographic and clinical factors on HRQoL.

Results

The total score of HRQoL in these patients is 47.22±16.78, which indicates that HRQoL is disturbed in these patients. Also, the results of the stepwise multiple regression revealed that among all the participants’ characteristics considered, seven factors: not having another disease besides cancer (p<0.001, β: 12.91, 95% CI 8.40, 17.42), only receiving chemotherapy (p<0.001, β: 9.10, 95% CI 4.12, 14.09), not having colostomy (p<0.001, β: 10.27, 95% Cl 5.70, 14.84), female sex (p=0.046, β: −4.52, 95% Cl −8.95, –0.08), living in their own house (p=0.001, β: 11.25, 95% Cl 4.77, 17.73), living in city (p=0.002, 17.74, 95% Cl 6.51, 28.96) and finally not having a job (p=0.003, β: −7.47, 95% Cl −12.31, –2.63), including are the factors that have the most predictive power in HRQoL.

Conclusions

The findings of this study encourage health service providers and planners to pay special attention to the characteristics of patients with CRC as identified in this study. Notably, several HRQoL scores in patients with CRC are low, and the study found that patient characteristics, such as the presence of colostomy, unemployment, female gender and comorbidities, significantly predict the overall HRQoL score. Future research should focus on interventional studies aimed at minimising the adverse effects of disease symptoms on HRQoL in these vulnerable patients.
Health professionals’ and caregivers’ perspectives on improving paramedics’ provision of palliative care in Australian communities: a qualitative study
Authors: Juhrmann Madeleine , Butow Phyllis , Platts Cara , Boughey Mark , Simpson Paul , Clayton Josephine M
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Paramedics have the potential to make a substantial contribution to community-based palliative care provision. However, they are hindered by a lack of policy and institutional support, as well as targeted education and training. This study aimed to elicit paramedics’, palliative care doctors’ and nurses’, general practitioners’, residential aged care nurses’ and bereaved families and carers’ attitudes and perspectives on how palliative paramedicine can be improved to better suit the needs of community-based patients, their families and carers, and the clinicians involved in delivering the care.

Design

In this qualitative study underpinned by a social constructivist epistemology, semistructured interviews were conducted.

Setting and participants

50 participants with palliative paramedicine experience, from all jurisdictions of Australia. Participants were interviewed between November 2021 and April 2022.

Results

All participants suggested paramedics play an important adjunct role in the provision of palliative and end-of-life care in home-based settings. Three levels of opportunities for improvement were identified: macrolevel (policy and frameworks; funding and education; accessing medical records and a widening scope); mesolevel (service-level training; interprofessional understanding and communities of practice and community expectations) and microlevel (palliative care subspecialty; debriefing and self-care and partnering with families).

Conclusion

To enhance paramedic capacity to provide palliative care support, improvements targeting systems, services, communities and individuals should be made. This calls for stronger inclusion of paramedicine in interdisciplinary palliative care and greater investment in both the generalist and specialist palliative paramedicine workforce.
Systematic video analysis of ACL injuries in professional Spanish male football (soccer): injury mechanisms, situational patterns, biomechanics and neurocognitive errors – a study on 115 consecutive cases
Authors: Buckthorpe Matthew , Pirli Capitani Luca , Olivares-Jabalera Jesus , Olmo Jesus , Della Villa Francesco
Published: September 2024

Objective

A few video analysis studies have been published in recent years, but none specifically on Spanish football. We aimed to describe the mechanisms, situational patterns, biomechanics and neurocognitive errors related to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in professional Spanish football matches.

Methods

We identified 167 consecutive ACL injuries across 12 seasons of the top two leagues in Spanish football. 115 (69%) injury videos were analysed for mechanism and situational pattern, while biomechanical analysis was possible in 81 cases. Neurocognitive errors were investigated for all non-contact injuries. Three independent reviewers evaluated each video. ACL injury epidemiology—month, timing within the match and pitch location at the time of injury was also documented.

Results

More injuries occurred in defensive (n=68, 59%) than offensive (n=48, 41%) (p<0.01) playing situations. 16 (14%) injuries were direct contact, 49 (43%) indirect contact and 50 (43%) non-contact. Most injuries (89%) occurred during four main situational patterns: (1) pressing/tackling (n=47, 47%); (2) tackled (n=23, 23%); (3) landing from a jump (n=12, 12%) and regaining balance after kicking (n=6, 6%). Injuries generally involved a knee-dominant loading strategy in the sagittal plane with abducted hip and knee valgus. Of the non-contact injuries, 39 (78%) were deemed to involve a neurocognitive error. More (58%) injuries occurred in the first half of matches (p<0.01).

Conclusions

ACL injuries in Spanish football occurred similarly with non-contact and indirect contact mechanisms (44%). Four in five non-contact injuries involved a neurocognitive error. Most injuries occurred during four previously identified situational patterns, with more injuries earlier in the match.
Anti-metabolite chemotherapy increases LAG-3 expressing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes which can be targeted by combination immune checkpoint blockade
Authors: Principe Nicola , Phung Amber-Lee , Stevens Kofi L P , Elaskalani Omar , Wylie Ben , Tilsed Caitlin M , Sheikh Fezaan , Orozco Morales M Lizeth , Kidman Joel , Marcq Elly , Fisher Scott A , Nowak Anna K , McDonnell Alison M , Lesterhuis W Joost , Chee Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Background

Antibodies that target immune checkpoints such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4), programmed cell death protein/ligand 1 (PD-1/PD-L1) are approved for treatment of multiple cancer types. Chemotherapy is often administered with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies that target CTLA-4 and/or PD-(L)1. ICB targeting other immune checkpoints such as lymphocyte activating gene-3 (LAG-3) has the potential to improve antitumor responses when combined with chemotherapy. Response to anti-PD-1 ICB is dependent on progenitor exhausted CD8+T cells (TPEX) in the tumor, but it is unclear how chemotherapy alters TPEXproportions and phenotype.

Methods

Here we investigated whether sequential chemotherapy altered TPEXfrequency and immune checkpoint expression in multiple murine tumor models.

Results

Two doses of two different anti-metabolite chemotherapies increased tumor infiltrating CD4+, and CD8+TPEXexpressing LAG-3 in multiple mouse models, which was not restricted to tumor antigen specific CD8+T cells. To determine if LAG-3+tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) could be targeted to improve tumor control, we administered anti-LAG-3 and anti-PD-1 ICB after two doses of chemotherapy and found combination therapy generated robust antitumor responses compared with each agent alone. Both anti-LAG-3 and anti-PD-1 ICB with chemotherapy were required for the complete tumor regression observed.

Conclusions

Changes in immune checkpoint expression on TILs during chemotherapy administration informs selection of ICB therapies to combine with.