bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group size affects predation risk and foraging success in Pacific salmon at sea
Authors: Polyakov Anne Y. , Quinn Thomas P. , Myers Katherine W. , Berdahl Andrew M.
Published: June 2022

Grouping is ubiquitous across animal taxa and environments. Safety in numbers is perhaps the most cited reason for grouping, yet this fundamental tenet of ecological theory has rarely been tested in wild populations. We analyzed a multidecadal dataset of Pacific salmon at sea and found that individuals in larger groups had lower predation risk; within groups of fish, size outliers (relatively small and large fish) had increased predation risk. For some species, grouping decreased foraging success, whereas for other species, grouping increased foraging success, indicating that safety competition trade-offs differed among species. These results indicate that survival and growth depend on group size; understanding the relationship between group size distributions and population size may be critical to unraveling ecology and population dynamics for marine fishes.
Anoxic photochemical weathering of pyrite on Archean continents
Authors: Hao Jihua , Liu Winnie , Goff Jennifer L. , Steadman Jeffrey A. , Large Ross R. , Falkowski Paul G. , Yee Nathan
Published: June 2022

Sulfur is an essential element of life that is assimilated by Earth’s biosphere through the chemical breakdown of pyrite. On the early Earth, pyrite weathering by atmospheric oxygen was severely limited, and low marine sulfate concentrations persisted for much of the Archean eon. Here, we show an anoxic photochemical mechanism of pyrite weathering that could have provided substantial amounts of sulfate to the oceans as continents formed in the late Archean. Pyrite grains suspended in anoxic ferrous iron solutions produced millimolar sulfate concentrations when irradiated with ultraviolet light. The Fe
2+
(aq)
was photooxidized, which, in turn, led to the chemical oxidation of pyritic sulfur. Additional experiments conducted with 2.68 Ga shale demonstrated that photochemically derived ferric iron oxidizes and dissolves sedimentary pyrite during chemical weathering. The results suggest that before the rise of atmospheric oxygen, oxidative pyrite weathering on Archean continents was controlled by the exposure of land to sunlight.
Suppression of osteoclast multinucleation via a posttranscriptional regulation–based spatiotemporally selective delivery system
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Wang Haoli , Yan Huige , Tian Hongsen , Wang Yining , Yu Wei , Dai Zhanqiu , Chen Pengfei , Liu Zhaoming , Tang Ruikang , Jiang Chao , Fan Shunwu , Liu Xin , Lin Xianfeng
Published: June 2022

Redundancy of multinucleated mature osteoclasts, which results from the excessive fusion of mononucleated preosteoclasts (pOCs), leads to osteolytic diseases such as osteoporosis. Unfortunately, the currently available clinical drugs completely inhibit osteoclasts, thus interfering with normal physiological bone turnover. pOC-specific regulation may be more suitable for maintaining bone homeostasis. Here, circBBS9, a previously unidentified circular RNA, was found to exert regulatory effects via the circBBS9/miR-423-3p/Traf6 axis in pOCs. To overcome the long-standing challenge of spatiotemporal RNA delivery to cells, we constructed biomimetic nanoparticles to achieve the pOC-specific targeted delivery of circBBS9. pOC membranes (POCMs) were extracted to camouflage cationic polymer for RNA interference with circBBS9 (POCM-NPs@siRNA/shRNA
circBBS9
). POCM-NPs endowed the nanocarriers with improved stability, accurate pOC targeting, fusogenic uptake, and reactive oxygen species–responsive release. In summary, our findings may provide an alternative strategy for multinucleated cell–related diseases that involves restriction of mononucleated cell multinucleation through a spatiotemporally selective delivery system.
Reviving ghost alleles: Genetically admixed coyotes along the American Gulf Coast are critical for saving the endangered red wolf
Authors: vonHoldt Bridgett M. , Hinton Joseph W. , Shutt Amy C. , Murphy Sean M. , Karlin Melissa L. , Adams Jennifer R. , Waits Lisette P. , Brzeski Kristin E.
Published: June 2022

The last known red wolves were captured in southwestern Louisiana and eastern Texas in 1980 to establish a captive breeding population. Before their extirpation, gene flow with coyotes resulted in the persistence of endangered red wolf genetic variation in local coyote populations. We assessed genomic ancestry and morphology of coyotes in southwestern Louisiana. We detected that 38 to 62% of the coyote genomes contained red wolf ancestry acquired in the past 30 years and have an admixture profile similar to that of the canids captured before the extirpation of red wolves. We further documented a positive correlation between ancestry and weight. Our findings highlight the importance of hybrids and admixed genomes as a reservoir of endangered species ancestry for innovative conservation efforts. Together, this work presents an unprecedented system that conservation can leverage to enrich the recovery program of an endangered species.
Microscale mechanochemical characterization of drying oil films by in situ correlative Brillouin and Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Alunni Cardinali Martina , Cartechini Laura , Paolantoni Marco , Miliani Costanza , Fioretto Daniele , Pensabene Buemi Luciano , Comez Lucia , Rosi Francesca
Published: June 2022

Correlative Brillouin and Raman microspectroscopy (BRaMS) is applied for the in situ monitoring of the chemical and physical changes of linseed oil during polymerization. The viscoelastic properties of the drying oil throughout the phase transition were determined by Brillouin light scattering (BLS) and joined to the Raman spectroscopic information about the chemical process responsible for the oil hardening. A comparative study was then performed on an oil mock-up containing ZnO, one of the most common white pigments used in cultural heritage. The intriguing outcomes open new research perspectives for a deeper comprehension of the processes leading to the conversion of a fluid binder into a dry adhering film. The description of both chemical and structural properties of the polymeric network and their evolution are the basis for a better understanding of oil painting degradation. Last, as a feasibility test, BRaMS was applied to study a precious microfragment from J. Pollock’s masterpiece
Alchemy
.
Evolution of Habitat-Dependent Antibiotic Resistance in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Laborda Pablo , Martínez José Luis , Hernando-Amado Sara
Published: June 2022

Predicting evolution toward antibiotic resistance (AR) and its associated trade-offs, such as collateral sensitivity, is important to design evolution-based strategies to tackle AR. However, the effect of nutrients' availability on such evolution, particularly those that can be found underin vivoinfection conditions, has been barely addressed.
Molecular Evolution of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Field Strains from Two Swine Production Systems in the Midwestern United States from 2001 to 2020
Authors: Rupasinghe Ruwini , Lee Kyuyoung , Liu Xin , Gauger Phillip C. , Zhang Jianqiang , Martínez-López Beatriz
Published: June 2022

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is known for its high genetic and antigenic variability. In this study, we evaluated the ORF5 sequences of PRRSV-2 strains circulating in two swine production systems in the midwestern United States from 2001 to 2020.
Benefits of Regional Integration: Redefining the Concept
Authors: Butorina O. V. , Borko Yu. A.
Published: June 2022

For decades, the topic of regional integration has been considered in research through its economic benefits. The classic theories of customs unions and optimum currency area, together with, to a lesser extent, the new regionalism approach are based on analyses of potential costs and benefits of regional associations. Regional integration is traditionally understood as a way to encourage trade flow between member states, to facilitate more efficient allocation of resources by stimulating competition by increasing the capacity of the internal market. That is expected to result in faster economic growth and, consequently, increased per capita income. The 70-year history of the European Union provides sufficient research material to analyze whether economic benefits truly are the main driving force of regional integration. With this goal in mind, the presented article first sums up the key reasons for the post-war unification of Western Europe, then explores the position of the cost-benefit analysis in the theory of regional integration, and finally analyzes the degree of influence of welfare effects on strategic decisions of the European Union. The analysis shows that economic gain is not an immanent property of regional integration: it does not occur at all stages of the process and is neither its primary goal nor its driving force. Instead, regional integration aims to respond to the changing global order, i.e., help member states strengthen their international position and protect themselves from undesirable external influence. While economic benefits are also important, they are not necessarily the decisive factor.
Russian Modernization in the 20th Century: Features, Pace, and Results
Authors: Kornilov Gennady
Published: June 2022

This article substantiates a new methodological approach that involves identifying transformations in the economic, social, political, demographic, and cultural spheres of the village, as well as their evolution, trajectory, dynamics, and intensity. This approach contributes to the deepening of ideas about the patterns and features of the development of the agrarian sector and rural society in Russia in the 20th century.
Paediatric health-related quality of life in congenital cytomegalovirus
Authors: Ralph Kate Monica Isabel , Bull Kim , Trotter Caroline , Wood Sharon , Jones Christine E
Published: June 2022

Objective

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is the most common congenital infection globally. This cross-sectional study aimed to describe the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of children with cCMV and that of their parents.

Methods

Families of children with cCMV in the UK were approached through the charity CMV Action. Parents completed questionnaires about their own HRQoL and that of their child. Children who were able to self-report completed questionnaires about their own HRQoL. Demographic characteristics of the sample were described using descriptive statistics. Questionnaire responses were scored, and domain and summary scores were calculated and compared with UK population norms, where available.

Results

Seventy families participated, with children aged between 5 months and 18 years. Children with cCMV had poorer HRQoL compared with children from UK population data. HRQoL of children whose health was more severely affected by cCMV was poorer than that of children whose health was less severely affected. Parents of children whose health was moderately or severely affected had greater psychological morbidity and poorer HRQoL in physical, emotional, social, and cognitive functioning domains than parents of less severely affected children.

Conclusions

cCMV has a significant effect on the HRQoL of children with cCMV and their parents, with the children with the most significant health needs having the lowest HRQoL compared with those children with little or no effects on their health. This data could contribute to health economic analyses, informing resource allocation to potential interventions for the prevention and treatment of cCMV.
Rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament and meniscal injuries: a best-evidence synthesis of systematic reviews for the OPTIKNEE consensus
Authors: Culvenor Adam G , Girdwood Michael A , Juhl Carsten B , Patterson Brooke E , Haberfield Melissa J , Holm Pætur M , Bricca Alessio , Whittaker Jackie L , Roos Ewa M , Crossley Kay M
Published: June 2022

Objective

Synthesise evidence for effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions following ACL and/or meniscal tear on symptomatic, functional, clinical, psychosocial, quality of life and reinjury outcomes.

Design

Overview of systematic reviews with Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation certainty of evidence.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus and Cochrane Library.

Eligibility criteria

Systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials investigating rehabilitation interventions following ACL and/or meniscal tears in young adults.

Results

We included 22 systematic reviews (142 trials of mostly men) evaluating ACL-injured individuals and none evaluating isolated meniscal injuries. We synthesised data from 16 reviews evaluating 12 different interventions. Moderate-certainty evidence was observed for: (1) neuromuscular electrical stimulation to improve quadriceps strength; (2) open versus closed kinetic chain exercises to be similarly effective for quadriceps strength and self-reported function; (3) structured home-based versus structured in-person rehabilitation to be similarly effective for quadriceps and hamstring strength and self-reported function; and (4) postoperative knee bracing being ineffective for physical function and laxity. There was low-certainty evidence that: (1) preoperative exercise therapy improves self-reported and physical function postoperatively; (2) cryotherapy reduces pain and analgesic use; (3) psychological interventions improve anxiety/fear; and (4) whole body vibration improves quadriceps strength. There was very low-certainty evidence that: (1) protein-based supplements improve quadriceps size; (2) blood flow restriction training improves quadriceps size; (3) neuromuscular control exercises improve quadriceps and hamstring strength and self-reported function; and (4) continuous passive motion has no effect on range of motion.

Conclusion

The general level of evidence for rehabilitation after ACL or meniscal tear was low. Moderate-certainty evidence indicates that several rehabilitation types can improve quadriceps strength, while brace use has no effect on knee function/laxity.
Determinants of children ever born among ever-married women in Bangladesh: evidence from the Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018
Authors: Rahman Atikur , Hossain Zakir , Rahman Mohammad Lutfor , Kabir Enamul
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of the number of children ever born (CEB) and its associated determinants among women aged 15–49 years in Bangladesh.

Study design and setting

We used clustered data extracted from the last two Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys (BDHS 2014 and BDHS 2017–2018). A two-stage stratified sampling was used in both surveys. Mixed logistic regression modelling approach for binary responses was adapted to accommodate clustering effects via the generalised linear mixed model framework.

Participants

The study is based on 15 924 ever-married women in BDHS 2017–2018 (14 119 in BDHS 2014) of Bangladesh.

Results

As per the latest BDHS 2017–2018, 42.1% of reproductive women had three or more children. Age at first marriage (p<0.001, OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.666 to 0.825), age at first birth (p<0.001, OR0.54, 95% CI 0.480 to 0.607), place of residence (p<0.001, OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.712 to 0.872), exposure of media (p<0.001, OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.647 to 0.768), religion (p<0.001, OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.277 to 1.690), husband’s desire more child (p<0.001, OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.428 to 1.784), women empowerment (p<0.001, OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.075 to 1.3) and wealth index (p<0.001, OR1.61, 95% CI 0.435 to 1.796) were found to be statistically significant determinants of the number of CEB among ever-married women. The number of CEB among women was negatively associated with their own educational status (p<0.001) and husbands level of education (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The CEB appears to be higher among women who were married before 18 years, Muslim, illiterate, living in rural areas, had first birth before 20 years, non-exposure of media and husband’s desire for more children.
Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection in a paediatric cohort in Kuwait
Authors: Alhaddad Fatemah , Abdulkareem Ali , Alsharrah Danah , Alkandari Abdullah , Bin-Hasan Saadoun , Al-Ahmad Mona , Al Hashemi Hashem , Alghounaim Mohammad
Published: June 2022

Objective

Subsequent protection from SARS-CoV-2 infection in paediatrics is not well reported in the literature. We aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 PCR repositivity in children.

Design

This is a population-level retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Patients were identified through multiple national-level electronic COVID-19 databases that cover all primary, secondary and tertiary centres in Kuwait.

Participants

The study included children 12 years and younger between 28 February 2020 and 6 March 2021. SARS-CoV-2 reinfection was defined as having two or more positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR tests done on a respiratory sample, at least 45 days apart. Clinical data were obtained from the Pediatric COVID-19 Registry in Kuwait.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary measure is to estimate SARS-CoV-2 PCR repositivity rate. The secondary objective was to establish average duration between first and subsequent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Descriptive statistics were used to present clinical data for each infection episode. Also, incidence-sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate 60-day and 90-day PCR repositivity intervals.

Results

Thirty paediatric patients with COVID-19 had SARS-CoV-2 reinfection at an incidence of 1.02 (95% CI 0.71 to 1.45) infection per 100 000 person-days and a median time to reinfection of 83 (IQR 62–128.75) days. The incidence of reinfection decreased to 0.78 (95% CI 0.52 to 1.17) and 0.47 (95% CI 0.28 to 0.79) per person-day when the minimum interval between PCR repositivity was increased to 60 and 90 days, respectively. The mean age of reinfected subjects was 8.5 (IQR 3.7–10.3) years and the majority (70%) were girls. Most children (55.2%) had asymptomatic reinfection. Fever was the most common presentation in symptomatic patients. One immunocompromised experienced two reinfection episodes.

Conclusion

SARS-CoV-2 reinfection is uncommon in children. Previous confirmed COVID-19 in children seems to result in a milder reinfection.
Fluoxetine for reducing postoperative cognitive dysfunction in elderly patients after total knee replacement: study protocol for a single-centre, double-blind, randomised, parallel-group, superiority, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Lin Daoyi , Yu Lulu , Chen Jiaxin , Ye Hong , Wu Yushan , Yao Yusheng
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common complication following major surgical procedures. The underlying pathophysiology is poorly understood, but the role of neuroinflammation is strongly implicated. Given the antineuroinflammatory and neuroprotective effects of fluoxetine, we hypothesise that fluoxetine may reduce the cumulative incidence of POCD in elderly patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, superiority trial. Five hundred elderly patients undergoing unilateral TKA will be randomly assigned to the fluoxetine and placebo groups. The fluoxetine group will receive fluoxetine 20 mg daily 8 weeks preoperatively, and the placebo group will receive placebo capsules daily 8 weeks preoperatively. The primary outcome is the cumulative incidence of POCD at 1 month postoperatively. The secondary outcomes include the occurrence of delirium, the area under the curve of the Numeric Rating Scale pain scores over time, and sleep disturbance. Data on all the results, risk factors and adverse events will also be collected and analysed.

Ethics and dissemination

The Fujian Provincial Hospital Ethics Board has approved the protocol for this trial (identifier number: K2021-01-009). All participants will be required to provide written informed consent before any protocol-specific procedures.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2100050424.
Feasibility study of a randomised controlled trial of preoperative and postoperative nutritional supplementation in major lung surgery
Authors: Kerr Amy , Lugg Sebastian T , Kadiri Salma , Swift Amelia , Efstathiou Nikolaos , Kholia Krishna , Rogers Venessa , Fallouh Hazem , Steyn Richard , Bishay Ehab , Kalkat Maninder , Naidu Babu
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Malnutrition and weight loss are important risk factors for complications after lung surgery. However, it is uncertain whether modifying or optimising perioperative nutritional state with oral supplements results in a reduction in malnutrition, complications or quality of life.

Design

A randomised, open label, controlled feasibility study was conducted to assess the feasibility of carrying out a large multicentre randomised trial of nutritional intervention. The intervention involved preoperative carbohydrate-loading drinks (4×200 mL evening before surgery and 2×200 mL the morning of surgery) and early postoperative nutritional protein supplement drinks two times per day for 14 days compared with the control group receiving an equivalent volume of water.

Setting

Single adult thoracic centre in the UK.

Participants

All adult patients admitted for major lung surgery. Patients were included if were able to take nutritional drinks prior to surgery and give written informed consent. Patients were excluded if they were likely unable to complete the study questionnaires, they had a body mass index <18.5 kg/m2, were receiving parenteral nutrition or known pregnancy.

Results

All patients presenting for major lung surgery were screened over a 6-month period, with 163 patients screened, 99 excluded and 64 (41%) patients randomised. Feasibility criteria were met and the study completed recruitment 5 months ahead of target. The two groups were well balanced and tools used to measure outcomes were robust. Compliance with nutritional drinks was 97% preoperatively and 89% postoperatively; 89% of the questionnaires at 3 months were returned fully completed. The qualitative interviews demonstrated that the trial and the intervention were acceptable to patients. Patients felt the questionnaires captured their experience of recovery from surgery well.

Conclusion

A large multicentre randomised controlled trial of nutritional intervention in major lung surgery is feasible and required to test clinical efficacy in improving outcomes after surgery.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN16535341.
Antipsychotic prescribing practices and patient, family member and healthcare professional perceptions of antipsychotic prescribing in acute care settings: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Jaworska Natalia , Moss Stephana Julia , Krewulak Karla D , Stelfox Zara , Niven Daniel , Ismail Zahinoor , Burry Lisa , Fiest Kirsten
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Antipsychotic medications are commonly prescribed off-label in acutely ill patients for non-psychiatric clinical indications such as delirium or insomnia. New prescription initiation of antipsychotics in acute care settings increases the proportion of patients discharged home on antipsychotics without approved clinical indication. Long-term use of antipsychotics is associated with increased risk of sudden cardiac death, falls and cognitive impairment. An understanding of acute care off-label antipsychotic prescribing practices and healthcare professional, patient and family perceptions related to antipsychotic prescribing and deprescribing is necessary to facilitate in-hospital deprescribing initiatives.

Methods and analysis

We present the protocol for a scoping review following the methodology proposed by Arksey and O’Malley and the Scoping Review Methods Manual by the Joanna Briggs Institute. We will search five databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science from inception to 3 July 2021 (ie, planned search date). We will include both peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed qualitative and quantitative studies to identify antipsychotic prescribing practices, and to describe healthcare professional, patient and family perceptions towards antipsychotic prescribing and deprescribing in the acute care setting. Protocols, systematic and scoping reviews will be excluded. Two reviewers will calibrate and perform study screening and data abstraction for quantitative and qualitative outcomes of eligible studies. Quantitative outcomes will include study identifiers, demographics and descriptive statistics of antipsychotic prescribing practices. Qualitative synthesis describing perceptions on antipsychotic prescribing practices will include deductive thematic analysis with mapping of themes to the domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework, a 14-domain behaviour and behaviour change framework.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval will be required for this study as only data from published studies in which informed consent was obtained by primary investigators will be retrieved and analysed. The results of this scoping review will inform integrated knowledge translation initiatives aimed at in-hospital antipsychotic medication deprescribing.
Experiences of and response to the COVID-19 pandemic at private retail pharmacies in Kenya: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Mugo Peter Mwangi , Mumbi Audrey , Munene Daniella , Nzinga Jacinta , Molyneux Sassy , Barasa Edwine
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To assess experiences of and response to the COVID-19 pandemic at community pharmacies in Kenya.

Design, setting and participants

This was a mixed-methods study conducted from November 2020 to April 2021, targeting service providers in three counties (Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu), selected purposively to represent the main urban centres; pharmacies were selected randomly from a list of licensed pharmacies.

Results

Of 195 sampled pharmacies, 108 (55%) completed a questionnaire and 103 (53%) received a simulated client call; 18 service providers were interviewed. The initial weeks of the pandemic were characterised by fear and panic among service providers and a surge in client flow. Subsequently, 65 (60%) of 108 pharmacies experienced a dip in demand to below prepandemic levels and 34 (31%) reported challenges with unavailability, high price and poor quality of products. Almost all pharmacies were actively providing preventive materials and therapies; educating clients on prevention measures; counselling anxious clients; and handling and referring suspect cases. Fifty-nine pharmacies (55% (95% CI 45% to 65%)) reported receiving a client asking for COVID-19 testing and a similar proportion stated they would support pharmacy-based testing if implemented. For treatment of simulated clients, most pharmacies (71%, 73 of 103) recommended alternative therapies and nutritional supplements such as vitamin C; the rest recommended conventional therapies such as antibiotics. While 52 (48%) of 108 pharmacies had at least one staff member trained on COVID-19, a general feeling of disconnection from the national programme prevailed.

Conclusions

Private pharmacies in Kenya were actively contributing to the COVID-19 response, but more deliberate engagement, support and linkages are required. Notably, there is an urgent need to develop guidelines for pharmacy-based COVID-19 testing, a service that is clearly needed and which could greatly increase test coverage. Pharmacy-based COVID-19 programmes should be accompanied with implementation research to inform current and future pandemic responses.
Psychological experience of inpatients with acute pancreatitis: a qualitative study
Authors: Ma Shuli , Yang Xiaoxi , He Hongmei , Gao Yiwen , Chen Yuanyuan , Qin Jingwen , Zhang Can , Lu Guotao , Gong Weijuan , Chen Weiwei , Ren Yan
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study aimed to better understand the psychological experiences of inpatients with acute pancreatitis (AP).

Design

We used a qualitative descriptive study design to capture patients with AP’s thoughts, feelings and behavioural responses.

Setting

We conducted this study in the gastroenterology departments of two tertiary hospitals in Eastern China.

Participants

We used a convenience sampling approach to recruit 28 inpatients with AP from 1 August 2020 to 25 December 2020. The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. We employed an adapted version of Colaizzi’s qualitative analysis approach to examine the data.

Results

We extracted three themes and eight subthemes regarding the participants’ psychological experiences: (1) feeling that their disease is unpredictable (the inability to recognise the disease, uncertainty about the illness and fear of progression or recurrence); (2) various kinds of stress and support (feeling different degrees of stress, perceiving social support, seeking and craving social support); and (3) developing self-adaptability in the disease process (treating one’s illness negatively or positively).

Conclusions

Cognitive and emotional responses vary in patients with AP during hospitalisation. Moreover, patients with distinct conditions demonstrate significant differences in their responses and coping mechanisms. Healthcare providers need to mobilise social support and formulate comprehensive intervention strategies according to patients’ individual characteristics.
The analysis of risk factors for diabetic kidney disease progression: a single-centre and cross-sectional experiment in Shanghai
Authors: Liu Wen , Du Juan , Ge Xiaoxu , Jiang Xiaohong , Peng Wenfang , Zhao Nan , Shen Lisha , Xia Lili , Hu Fan , Huang Shan
Published: June 2022

Objective

To identify the risk factors for diabetic kidney disease (DKD) development, especially the difference between patients with different courses.

Patients and methods

791 patients were considered to be eligible and were enrolled in the cross-sectional study from Shanghai Tongren Hospital Inpatient Department. 36 variables were initially screened by univariate analysis. The risk factors affecting progression of DKD were determined by logistics regression analysis. Subgroups were grouped according to the course of diabetes disease, and multivariate logistics regression analysis was performed to find out the different risk factors in two subgroups. Finally, the receiver operating characteristics curve is used to verify the result.

Results

The logistic regression model indicated age (OR=1.020, p=0.017, 95% CI 1.004 to 1.040), systolic blood pressure (OR=1.013, p=0.006, 95% CI 1.004 to 1.022), waist circumference (OR=1.021, p=0.015, 95% CI 1.004 to 1.038), white blood cells (WBC, OR=1.185, p=0.001, 95% CI 1.085 to 1.295) and triglycerides (TG, OR=1.110, p=0.047, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.230) were risk factors for DKD, while free triiodothyronine (fT3, OR=0.711, p=0.011, 95% CI 0.547 to 0.926) was a protective factor for DKD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Subgroup analysis revealed that in patients with a short duration of diabetes (<8 years), WBC (OR=1.306, p<0.001, 95% CI 1.157 to 1.475) and TG (OR=1.188, p=0.033, 95% CI 1.014 to 1.393) were risk factors for DKD,fT3 (OR=0.544, p=0.002, 95% CI 0.367 to 0.804) was a protective factor for DKD; whereas for patients with disease course more than 8 years, age (OR=1.026, Pp=0.012, 95%CI=95% CI[ 1.006– to 1.048]) was identified as the only risk factor for DKD and fT3 (OR=0.036, Pp=0.017, 95%CI=95% CI[ 0.439– to 0.922]) was a protective factor for DKD.

Conclusion

The focus of attention should especially be on patients with a prolonged course of T2DM, and those with comorbid hypertension and hypertriglyceridaemia waist phenotype. More potential clinical indexes such as thyroid function and inflammatory indicators might be considered as early warning factors for DKD in T2DM. Women should pay attention to controlling inflammation and TGs, and men should strictly control blood pressure. Avoiding abdominal obesity in both men and women will bring great benefits.
Scoping review of costs of implementation strategies in community, public health and healthcare settings
Authors: Michaud Tzeyu L , Pereira Emiliane , Porter Gwenndolyn , Golden Caitlin , Hill Jennie , Kim Jungyoon , Wang Hongmei , Schmidt Cindy , Estabrooks Paul A
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To identify existing evidence concerning the cost of dissemination and implementation (D&I) strategies in community, public health and health service research, mapped with the ‘Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change’ (ERIC) taxonomy.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Scopus and the Cochrane Library were searched to identify any English language reports that had been published between January 2008 and December 2019 concerning the cost of D&I strategies.

Data extraction

We matched the strategies identified in each article using ERIC taxonomies; further classified them into five areas (eg, dissemination, implementation, integration, capacity building and scale-up); and extracted the corresponding costs (total costs and cots per action target and per evidence-based programme (EBP) participant). We also recorded the reported level of costing methodology used for cost assessment of D&I strategies.

Results

Of the 6445 articles identified, 52 studies were eligible for data extraction. Lack of D&I strategy cost data was the predominant reason (55% of the excluded studies) for study exclusion. Predominant topic, setting, country and research design in the included studies were mental health (19%), primary care settings (44%), the US (35%) and observational (42%). Thirty-five (67%) studies used multicomponent D&I strategies (ranging from two to five discrete strategies). The most frequently applied strategies were Conduct ongoing training (50%) and Conduct educational meetings (23%). Adoption (42%) and reach (27%) were the two most frequently assessed outcomes. The overall costs of Conduct ongoing training ranged from $199 to $105 772 ($1–$13 973 per action target and $0.02–$412 per EBP participant); whereas the cost of Conduct educational meetings ranged from $987 to $1.1–$2.9 million/year ($33–$54 869 per action target and $0.2–$146 per EBP participant). The wide range of costs was due to the varying scales of the studies, intended audiences/diseases and the complexities of the strategy components. Most studies presented limited information on costing methodology, making interpretation difficult.

Conclusions

The quantity of published D&I strategy cost analyses is increasing, yet guidance on conducting and reporting of D&I strategy cost analysis is necessary to facilitate and promote the application of comparative economic evaluation in the field of D&I research.
Cancer risk and tumour spectrum in 172 patients with a germlineSUFUpathogenic variation: a collaborative study of the SIOPE Host Genome Working Group
Authors: Guerrini-Rousseau Léa , Masliah-Planchon Julien , Waszak Sebastian M , Alhopuro Pia , Benusiglio Patrick R , Bourdeaut Franck , Brecht Ines B , Del Baldo Giada , Dhanda Sandeep Kumar , Garrè Maria Luisa , Gidding Corrie E M , Hirsch Steffen , Hoarau Pauline , Jorgensen Mette , Kratz Christian , Lafay-Cousin Lucie , Mastronuzzi Angela , Pastorino Lorenza , Pfister Stefan M , Schroeder Christopher , Smith Miriam Jane , Vahteristo Pia , Vibert Roseline , Vilain Catheline , Waespe Nicolas , Winship Ingrid M , Evans D Gareth , Brugieres Laurence
Published: June 2022

Background

Little is known about risks associated with germlineSUFUpathogenic variants (PVs) known as a cancer predisposition syndrome.

Methods

To study tumour risks, we have analysed data of a large cohort of 45 unpublished patients with a germlineSUFUPV completed with 127 previously published patients. To reduce the ascertainment bias due to index patient selection, the risk of tumours was evaluated in relatives withSUFUPV (89 patients) using the Nelson-Aalen estimator.

Results

Overall, 117/172 (68%)SUFUPV carriers developed at least one tumour: medulloblastoma (MB) (86 patients), basal cell carcinoma (BCC) (25 patients), meningioma (20 patients) and gonadal tumours (11 patients). Thirty-three of them (28%) had multiple tumours. Median age at diagnosis of MB, gonadal tumour, first BCC and first meningioma were 1.5, 14, 40 and 44 years, respectively. Follow-up data were available for 160 patients (137 remained alive and 23 died). The cumulative incidence of tumours in relatives was 14.4% (95% CI 6.8 to 21.4), 18.2% (95% CI 9.7 to 25.9) and 44.1% (95% CI 29.7 to 55.5) at the age of 5, 20 and 50 years, respectively. The cumulative risk of an MB, gonadal tumour, BCC and meningioma at age 50 years was: 13.3% (95% CI 6 to 20.1), 4.6% (95% CI 0 to 9.7), 28.5% (95% CI 13.4 to 40.9) and 5.2% (95% CI 0 to 12), respectively. Sixty-four different PVs were reported across the entireSUFUgene and inherited in 73% of cases in which inheritance could be evaluated.

Conclusion

GermlineSUFUPV carriers have a life-long increased risk of tumours with a spectrum dominated by MB before the age of 5, gonadal tumours during adolescence and BCC and meningioma in adulthood, justifying fine-tuned surveillance programmes.
Ultrasound-guided superficial cervical plexus block reduces opioid consumption in patients undergoing craniotomy via suboccipital retrosigmoid approach: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zeng Min , Li Ruowen , Xu Xin , Wang Dexiang , Dong Jia , Li Shu , Kass Ira S , Peng Yuming , Jia Wang
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The effectiveness of superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) at decreasing opioid use and improving hemodynamic stability during suboccipital retrosigmoid craniotomy has not been established. The aim of this study is to evaluate the analgesic effect of preoperative ultrasound-guided SCPB for craniotomy via a suboccipital retrosigmoid approach.

Methods

This was a prospective, single-center, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group controlled trial. One hundred and six adult patients undergoing suboccipital retrosigmoid craniotomy were randomly allocated into either the SCPB group (n=53) to receive 10 mL of 0.5% ropivacaine or the control group (n=53) to receive 0.9% normal saline injected into the superficial layer of prevertebral fascia guided by ultrasound. The primary outcome was the cumulative consumption of sufentanil with patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) within 24 hours. Secondary outcomes included the overall perioperative consumption of opioids, the area under the curve of the pain score from 1 hour to 48 hours (AUC1–48), intraoperative hemodynamic parameters, and anesthesia depth.

Results

The mean PCIA pump cumulative consumption of sufentanil in the first 24 hour postoperative period was significantly lowered by SCPB (5.0 µg vs 9.8 µg, 95% CI: −8.0 to –2.4; p=0.001). The total perioperative consumption of sufentanil (45.0 µg vs 54.5 µg, 95% CI: –14.8 to –4.1; p=0.001) was also significantly decreased by SCPB. The incidence of severe pain within 24 hours was decreased by SCPB (7.5% vs 26.4%, p=0.01). SCPB significantly decreased the AUC1–48of the pain score. Intraoperative hemodynamic parameters and anesthesia depth were similar between groups (p>0.05).

Discussion

SCPB provides effective analgesia in patients undergoing craniotomy and tumor resection via suboccipital retrosigmoid approach. SCPB demonstrates an opioid-sparing effect and allows for the maintenance hemodynamic stability at an appropriate depth of anesthesia.

Trial registration number

NCT04036812.
End of life care in UK care homes – controlled drugs: systematic review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Majumder Megha , Bowers Ben , Pollock Kristian , Goodman Claire , Kuhn Isla , Barclay Stephen
Published: June 2022

Background

Controlled drugs (CDs) such as opioids and midazolam are commonly used in end-of-life care symptom management for care home residents.

Aim

To review the published evidence concerning the prescribing, storage, use and disposal of CDs for end-of-life care for care home residents in the UK.

Design

Systematic review and narrative synthesis.

Methods

Seven databases (Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Social Care Online) were searched from January 2000 to January 2021, alongside reference, citation and journal hand searches. Gough’s ‘Weight of Evidence’ framework was used to appraise the relevance of studies to the review questions.

Results

The search yielded 1279 titles, from which 125 abstracts and then 42 full-text papers were screened. 14 papers were included in the synthesis. Prescribing is primarily by general practitioners, with administration by nurses. Nurses frequently report feeling inadequately trained in the use of CDs. The storage, monitoring and disposal of end-of-life care CDs in UK care homes has not been researched to date. The attitudes and experiences of residents and family members regarding these medications also remain unknown.

Conclusion

The current widespread use of CDs for end-of-life care in care homes has a limited evidence base. The lack of research concerning the storing, monitoring and disposing of CDs, alongside the limited evidence concerning resident and family members’ perspectives, is a significant knowledge deficit that requires urgent attention.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020173014.
Standardised cigarettes: the next step for tobacco policy?
Authors: van der Eijk Yvette
Published: June 2022

As tobacco marketing restrictions intensify, tobacco companies increasingly turn to the cigarette product itself as a marketing medium with new flavours, capsules, novelty filter features and attractive cigarette stick designs. This paper considers a ‘standardised cigarettes’ policy as a potential next step in restricting tobacco marketing. This policy would remove from cigarette products all the elements that increase their appeal and addictiveness: added flavours, nicotine, and visual designs and branding. The result would be a cigarette that is flavourless, not especially addicting, and visually off-putting. This paper discusses what a standardised cigarettes policy might look like from a regulatory standpoint, and how it fits into current policy obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
Subtyping emphysematous COPD by respiratory volume change distributions on CT
Authors: Shima Hiroshi , Tanabe Naoya , Oguma Akira , Shimizu Kaoruko , Kaji Shizuo , Terada Kunihiko , Oguma Tsuyoshi , Kubo Takeshi , Suzuki Masaru , Makita Hironi , Sato Atsuyasu , Nishimura Masaharu , Sato Susumu , Konno Satoshi , Hirai Toyohiro
Published: June 2022

Background

There is considerable heterogeneity among patients with emphysematous chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We hypothesised that in addition to emphysema severity, ventilation distribution in emphysematous regions would be associated with clinical-physiological impairments in these patients.

Objective

To evaluate whether the discordance between respiratory volume change distributions (from expiration to inspiration) in emphysematous and non-emphysematous regions affects COPD outcomes using two cohorts.

Methods

Emphysema was quantified using a low attenuation volume percentage on inspiratory CT (iLAV%). Local respiratory volume changes were calculated using non-rigidly registered expiratory/inspiratory CT. The Ventilation Discordance Index (VDI) represented the log-transformed Wasserstein distance quantifying discordance between respiratory volume change distributions in emphysematous and non-emphysematous regions.

Results

Patients with COPD in the first cohort (n=221) were classified into minimal emphysema (iLAV% <10%; n=113) and established emphysema with high VDI and low VDI groups (n=46 and 62, respectively). Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) was lower in the low VDI group than in the other groups, with no difference between the high VDI and minimal emphysema groups. Higher iLAV%, more severe airway disease and hyperventilated emphysematous regions in the upper-middle lobes were independently associated with lower VDI. The second cohort analyses (n=93) confirmed these findings and showed greater annual FEV1decline and higher mortality in the low VDI group than in the high VDI group independent of iLAV% and airway disease on CT.

Conclusion

Lower VDI is associated with severe airflow limitation and higher mortality independent of emphysema severity and airway morphological changes in patients with emphysematous COPD.
Knowing what is going on—a smart contract for modular construction
Authors: Chen Gongfan , Li Huaming , Liu Min , Hsiang Simon M. , Jarvamardi Ashtad
Published: June 2022

This research aims to develop an automatic incentive–penalty enforcement system for modular construction. Smart contract rules were developed for a project of 120 prefabricated bath units. The results show that the smart contract can automatically enforce rewards and penalties for all 19 scenarios. The findings can help project managers detect and reject any inappropriate or malicious operations deviated from predefined rules efficiently. The results show that if the prefabricated bathroom unit fabricator can perform at the highest reliability level following the smart contract rules, the project can save 4.7% overall cost compared with the benchmark scenario. The findings will be beneficial to modular construction project by ensuring efficient monitoring, motivating reliable performance, and improving productivity and project documentation.
A simple and effective iterated greedy algorithm for structural balance in signed networks
Authors: Duan Wenqiang , Kang Qinma , Kang Yunfan , Chen Jianwen , Qin Qingfeng
Published: June 2022

Recently, problems related to structural balance have received widespread attention in the research fields of signed networks, such as signed network partition, community detection and correlation clustering. Structural balance problems aim to find a partition of a signed network such that the frustration index, the sum of positive edges between subsets and negative edges within subsets, is minimized, which is known to be nondeterministic polynomial-time (NP)-complete and remains an open challenge. Many heuristic and meta-heuristic algorithms are developed to minimize the frustration index. However, most extant algorithms require quite a few parameters and are not efficient enough for large signed networks. In this study, we present a simple and effective iterated greedy (IG) algorithm for solving the structural balance problems with the objective of frustration minimization. In the algorithm, a constructive greedy heuristic is proposed to generate and reconstruct solutions to the problem with high efficiency. A two-stage local search procedure is designed to exploit the search space at different levels of granularity. An adaptive destruction method is developed to enhance the exploitation ability of the algorithm in the early stage and maintain the exploration ability later. Additionally, two acceleration methods are proposed to help the algorithm get a better performance in large signed networks. The experimental results indicate that the proposed IG algorithm outperforms other meta-heuristics in the literature especially in terms of the computational time.