bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of nurse‐surgeons in global surgical care: A scoping review
Authors: Grota Tenber , Betihavas Vasiliki , Burston Adam , Jacob Elisabeth
Published: October 2023

Aim

To identify the roles of nurse‐surgeons in the provision of surgical care.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

This scoping review adhered to the JBI guideline for scoping reviews and EQUATOR Network's PRISMA‐ScR checklist. Searches were performed from May 2022 to July 2022 using a combination of MeSH headings, keywords and filters via database and hand searching based on the eligibility criteria. Keywords included nurse‐surgeon, nurse endoscopist, nurse hysteroscopist and nurse cystoscopist. Data sources were CINAHL, Cochrane, Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus. Descriptive analysis was used to report the findings.

Results

Ninety‐six included records indicated nurse‐surgeon practice in 26 countries. Forty‐one nurse‐surgeon titles were found, the majority of which were types of nurse practitioner. A total of 5,684,198 surgeries were performed by nurse‐surgeons varying from laparotomies to biopsies. Nine records reported that nurse‐surgeons perform surgeries safely and on par with physicians with zero to minimal complications. Nineteen records reported improved surgical care efficiency by nurse‐surgeons in terms of patient access to surgery, waiting times, surgery times, patient show rates, patient education, physician workload and junior physicians' training. Seven records reported high patient satisfaction. Nurse‐surgeons were cost‐effective according to five records. Thirteen records recommended the standardization of nurse‐surgeon practice.

Conclusion

Nurse‐surgeons performed millions of surgeries worldwide assisting in easing the global surgical burden. This review identified the roles and benefits nurse‐surgeons play in global surgical care. Research gaps on nurse‐surgeon roles were discovered including the ambiguity in nurse‐surgeon titles and the need to regulate nurse‐surgeon practice.

Impact

This research addressed the clinical safety, quality, contribution to timely surgical access and cost efficiency of nurse‐surgeon performed surgeries, as well as the need to standardize nurse‐surgeon practice and use a more consistent nurse‐surgeon title to ensure role identification and monitoring.
The effects of sex on extinction dynamics of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii depend on the rate of environmental change
Authors: Petkovic Nikola , Colegrave Nick
Published: October 2023

The continued existence of sex, despite many the costs it entails, still lacks an adequate explanation, as previous studies demonstrated that the effects of sex are environment-dependent: sex enhances the rate of adaptation in changing environments, but the benefits level off in benign conditions. To the best of our knowledge, the potential impact of different patterns of environmental change on the magnitude of these benefits received less attention in theoretical studies. In this paper, we begin to explore this issue by examining the effect of the rate of environmental deterioration (negatively correlated with population survival rate), on the benefits of sex. To investigate the interplay of sex and the rate of environmental deterioration, we carried out a long-term selection experiment with a unicellular alga (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii), by manipulating mode of reproduction (asexual, facultative or obligate sexual) and the rate of environmental deterioration (an increase of salt concentration). We monitored both the population size and extinction dynamics. The results revealed that the relative advantage of sex increased at the intermediate rate and plateaued at the highest rate of environmental deterioration. Obligate sexual populations had the slowest extinction rate under the intermediate rate of environmental deterioration, while facultative sexuality was favoured under the high rate-treatment. To the best of our knowledge, our study is the first to demonstrate that the interplay of sex and the rate of environmental deterioration affects the probability of survival, which indicates that mode of reproduction may be an important determinant of survival of the anthropogenic-induced environmental change.

Abstract

The rate of environmental change and mode of reproduction interact. If environment deteriorates at a slow rate, both types of sexual populations will have a similar relative advantage over the asexual populations. At higher rates of environmental deterioration, the relative advantage will shift between the two modes of sexual reproduction: obligate or facultative sexual.
Does the definition of a novel environment affect the ability to detect cryptic genetic variation?
Authors: Riley Camille L. , Oostra Vicencio , Plaistow Stewart J.
Published: October 2023

Anthropogenic change exposes populations to environments that have been rare or entirely absent from their evolutionary past. Such novel environments are hypothesized to release cryptic genetic variation, a hidden store of variance that can fuel evolution. However, support for this hypothesis is mixed. One possible reason is a lack of clarity in what is meant by ‘novel environment’, an umbrella term encompassing conditions with potentially contrasting effects on the exposure or concealment of cryptic variation. Here, we use a meta-analysis approach to investigate changes in the total genetic variance of multivariate traits in ancestral versus novel environments. To determine whether the definition of a novel environment could explain the mixed support for a release of cryptic genetic variation, we compared absolute novel environments, those not represented in a population's evolutionary past, to extreme novel environments, those involving frequency or magnitude changes to environments present in a population's ancestry. Despite sufficient statistical power, we detected no broad-scale pattern of increased genetic variance in novel environments, and finding the type of novel environment did not explain any significant variation in effect sizes. When effect sizes were partitioned by experimental design, we found increased genetic variation in studies based on broad-sense measures of variance, and decreased variation in narrow-sense studies, in support of previous research. Therefore, the source of genetic variance, not the definition of a novel environment, was key to understanding environment-dependant genetic variation, highlighting non-additive genetic variance as an important component of cryptic genetic variation and avenue for future research.

Abstract

In this graphical abstract, a flow chart on the left outlines the criteria used to classify novel environments. On the right, two forest plots are presented: one comparing effect sizes (standardized mean difference in total genetic variance, SDV) between extreme and absolute novel environments, and the other comparing effect sizes between broad-sense and narrow-sense study designs.
Re‐intervention rates and symptom‐free survival at 1 year after endoscopic versus surgical management of strictures in Crohn's disease: A propensity matched analysis of a prospective inflammatory bowel disease cohort
Authors: Pal Partha , Gala Jaini , Rebala Pradeep , Banerjee Rupa , Ramchandani Mohan , Nabi Zaheer , Kanaganti Swathi , Shetty Mahesh G , Gupta Rajesh , Lakhtakia Sundeep , Rao Guduru Venkat , Tandan Manu , Reddy D Nageshwar
Published: October 2023

Background and Aim

Resection for Crohn's disease (CD) related strictures is definitive but carries risk of morbidity, recurrence, and short bowel syndrome. On the contrary, the durability of endotherapy (ET) for CD‐related strictures is questionable. Prospective comparative studies are limited. We aimed to prospectively compare the outcomes of ET in CD strictures with a case‐matched surgical therapy (ST) cohort.

Methods

Patients undergoing ET or resection for primary CD strictures (symptomatic, non‐traversable, < 5 cm length, n ≤ 3) between January 2021 and March 2022 in a high‐volume tertiary center were compared with regard to recurrent symptoms, escalation of therapy, re‐intervention, and re‐operation based on propensity matched analysis.

Results

Fifty‐nine patients [49% ET, 57.6% male, median (years): 34 (15–74)] had ≥ 12 months of follow up. Before propensity matching, cumulative re‐intervention rate was significantly higher with ET [34.5% (10/29) vs 3.3% (1/30) ST, P = 0.002]. Recurrent symptoms (34.5% vs 26.7%, P = 0.42), escalation of medical therapy (27.5% vs 23.3%, P = 0.64), and re‐operation (7.4% vs 3.1%, P = 0.55) were comparable. In propensity matched analysis adjusted for demographics, disease, and stricture characteristics [n = 42, 21 each, 62% male, median (years): 32 (15–60)], cumulative probability of re‐intervention rates was higher in ET (28.6% vs 4.8%, P = 0.042). The cumulative probability of recurrent symptoms (ET: 33.3% vs surgery 33.3%, P = 0.93), therapy escalation (ET: 23.8% vs surgery 28.6%, P = 0.75), and re‐operation (ET: 9.5% vs surgery 4.8%, P = 0.57) was similar.

Conclusions

ET for CD strictures require higher re‐interventions compared with resection although re‐operation could be avoided in the majority with comparable symptom free survival at 1 year.
Reply to: “Is oral collagen the elixir of youth?”
Authors: Samadi Aniseh , Ahmad Nasrollahi Saman , Firooz Alireza
Published: October 2023

Following letter provides answers and explanations for the correspoundance titled “Is oral collagen the elixir of youth.” They have admitted the strengths of our study and also have raised some questions about it, which we aim to provide answers and explanations.
Factors influencing the effectiveness of digital cognitive behavioural therapy for chronic insomnia in clinical practice
Authors: Shi Yuan , Ren Rong , Zhang Ye , Vitiello Michael V. , Tang Xiangdong
Published: October 2023

Digital cognitive behavioural therapy for chronic insomnia (D‐CBT‐I) has been shown to be as efficacious as traditional CBT‐I. However, not all patients achieve insomnia remission after treatment. We explored the factors influencing the effectiveness of D‐CBT‐I in a clinical practice. A total of 414 Asian chronic insomniacs were studied during a 6 week D‐CBT‐I intervention. All patients were assessed at baseline and posttreatment and were determined to be remitters or non‐remitters, responders or non‐responders by posttreatment criteria; Insomnia Severity Index (ISI <8) or ISI reduction ≥8, to examine whether remission and response status were associated with patient baseline characteristics. The average baseline ISI score in all subjects was 16.29 points. At posttreatment, 192 (46.4%) patients achieved ISI remission and 218 (52.7%) patients demonstrated an ISI response. An increased baseline early morning awakening time and ISI score were independently associated with a lower odds for remission (OR, 0.995 and 0.991, respectively). Increased baseline Patients Health Questionnaire‐9 score was independently associated with higher odds for response (OR, 1.114). Our results suggest that D‐CBT‐I can be recommended as the first‐line treatment for chronic insomnia, particularly in insomniacs with milder insomnia symptoms and more severe depressive symptoms. Meanwhile, the effectiveness of D‐CBT‐I was adversely affected by longer early morning awakening time and higher insomnia severity at pretreatment, which may be improved by more intense intervention and greater therapeutic support or by traditional CBT‐I.
Safety of TCMCB07, a melanocortin‐4 antagonist peptide, in dogs with naturally occurring cachexia
Authors: Axiak‐Bechtel Sandra M. , Leach Stacey B. , Newton‐Northup Jessica R. , Milner Rowan J. , Fox‐Alvarez Stacey A. , Fagman Lana I. , Young Kaylee A. , Tate Deborah J. , Wright Zachary M. , Chretin John D. , Allen Justin W. , Yoshimoto Sean K. , Selting Kimberly A. , Flesner Brian K. , White Carrie R. , Mills Tracy , Aherne Michael , Bergman Philip J. , Qi LeAnn , Gruber Kenneth A. , Callahan Michael F.
Published: October 2023

Background

The melanocortin 4 antagonist TCMCB07 is safe and effective in reversing cachexia caused by sepsis or cancer in rodents. The safety and pharmacokinetics of TCMCB07 are demonstrated in healthy beagle dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objectives of this study were to investigate the safety, peak plasma concentrations, and potential for efficacy of TCMCB07 in pet dogs with naturally occurring cachexia over a 4‐week time period.

Animals

Fourteen dogs with cachexia of any underlying cause, except cancer of the oral cavity or gastrointestinal tract, were eligible for enrollment with informed client consent.

Methods

This study was a prospective, 1‐armed open‐label trial. Physical examination, complete blood count, chemistry panel, and owner‐assessed quality of life surveys were checked at weeks 1, 2, and 4. Due to potential for bradycardia and hypotension, Holter monitoring and blood pressure evaluations were scheduled at pre‐enrollment and week 4.

Results

Fourteen dogs completed the trial. Significant changes detected included increased mean body weight (18.6‐19.5 kg, P < .02), increased body condition score (median Tufts 5‐point thin dog scale score P < .004 and WSAVA muscle condition score P < .02) and increased mean blood urea nitrogen (21.79‐30.43 mg dL−1, P < .004). On quality of life surveys, pet owners perceived their dog appeared to be panting less (P < .002) and that the general health improved (P < .03). Four dogs had a change in coat pigmentation. The peak plasma concentration of TCMCB07 in cachectic dogs was similar to that in healthy beagle dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

TCMCB07 was safe and has potential efficacy in pet dogs with cachexia.
Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in pre‐ruminant calves after intravenous, oral, and subcutaneous administration
Authors: Jokela Annemari , Nyrhilä Alexandra , Adam Magdy , Salla Kati , Raekallio Marja , Aho Riikka , Norring Marianna , Hokkanen Ann‐Helena
Published: October 2023

Meloxicam is routinely used for pain alleviation in pre‐ruminant calves during husbandry procedures. The pharmacokinetics of a single dose (0.5 mg/kg) of meloxicam was investigated after intravenous (IV), subcutaneous (SC), and oral (PO) administration in 30 pre‐ruminant calves. Each group included 10 calves. Oral meloxicam was administered at least 1 h after feeding. Plasma samples were collected for up to 168 h, and the meloxicam concentration was analysed with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, followed by a noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. The maximum meloxicam concentrations in plasma were 1.91 ± 0.27 μg/mL and 1.77 ± 0.16 μg/mL after SC and PO routes, respectively. The time of maximum concentration was 7.6 ± 2.8 h after SC and 10.0 ± 5.7 h after PO administration. The approximate bioavailability of meloxicam was 97% for SC and PO routes. The elimination half‐lives were 79.2 ± 12.4, 84.6 ± 24.8, and 84.8 ± 22.3 h after IV, SC, and PO routes, respectively. The results suggest that the therapeutic meloxicam concentrations in plasma that are required for pain relief in other species, such as horses, may be maintained for several days following a single dose (0.5 mg/kg) administered IV, SC, or PO in calves.
Self‐training approach for crack detection using synthesized crack images based on conditional generative adversarial network
Authors: Shim Seungbo
Published: October 2023

Urban infrastructure plays a crucial role in determining the quality of life for citizens. However, given the increasing number of aging infrastructures, regular inspections are essential to prevent accidents. Deep learning studies have been conducted to detect structural damage and ensure high accuracy and reliability of these inspections. However, these detection algorithms often face challenges due to scarcity of damage data. To overcome this issue, this paper proposes a method for synthesizing crack images and utilizing them for crack detection. Initially, crack images are synthesized from labeled images by using a conditional generative adversarial network. Subsequently, a new self‐training method is implemented wherein the synthesized crack images from the prediction images were incorporated into the learning process to enhance data diversity. The proposed approach yields promising results with a mean intersection over union of 80.34% and F1‐score of 76.31% on average. The proposed method can aid further research on virtual image generation for crack detection, seeking to reduce the reliance on extensive image collection.
Histoplasma antigen detection in unconfirmed pulmonary tuberculosis and cross‐reactivity with Aspergillus antigen in patients and in food in Jakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Wijaya Meiliyana , Surja Sem Samuel , Adawiyah Robiatul , Hariadi Ariananda , Setianingrum Findra , Rozaliyani Anna , Burhan Erlina , Tugiran Mulyati , Sjam Ridhawati , Denning David W. , Wahyuningsih Retno
Published: October 2023

Purpose

H. capsulatum is endemic in Indonesia, but the value of Histoplasma antigen detection has not been studied.

Patients and Methods

Histoplasma galactomannan (GM) ELISA was applied to sera of patients with unproven pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) and patients with a positive Aspergillus GM. Both Histoplasma and Aspergillus GM tests were performed to determine any possible cross‐reaction with certain foods.

Results

Fourteen of 122 (11.5%) sera of patients with newly diagnosed clinical TB were positive for Histoplasma GM. The positivity rate in the serum of patients 5–6 and 12 months after TB diagnosis was 3.8% and 3.5%, respectively. Of 88 positive Aspergillus GM sera, 63 (71.6%) were also positive for Histoplasma GM. All tested foods were positive for Aspergillus GM, while 65% of foods were positive for Histoplasma GM.

Conclusion

Galactomannan is widespread in sera and food in Jakarta, possibly related to food consumption. Histoplasma and Aspergillus antigen detection for the diagnosis will require additional means of confirming the diagnosis; negative tests may be more helpful for ruling out invasive histoplasmosis and aspergillosis.
REVEILLE2 thermosensitive splicing: a molecular basis for the integration of nocturnal temperature information by the Arabidopsis circadian clock
Authors: James Allan B. , Sharples Chantal , Laird Janet , Armstrong Emily May , Guo Wenbin , Tzioutziou Nikoleta , Zhang Runxuan , Brown John W. S. , Nimmo Hugh G. , Jones Matthew A.
Published: October 2023

Cold stress is one of the major environmental factors that limit growth and yield of plants. However, it is still not fully understood how plants account for daily temperature fluctuations, nor how these temperature changes are integrated with other regulatory systems such as the circadian clock.

We demonstrate that REVEILLE2 undergoes alternative splicing after chilling that increases accumulation of a transcript isoform encoding a MYB‐like transcription factor. We explore the biological function of REVEILLE2 in Arabidopsis thaliana using a combination of molecular genetics, transcriptomics, and physiology.

Disruption of REVEILLE2 alternative splicing alters regulatory gene expression, impairs circadian timing, and improves photosynthetic capacity. Changes in nuclear gene expression are particularly apparent in the initial hours following chilling, with chloroplast gene expression subsequently upregulated.

The response of REVEILLE2 to chilling extends our understanding of plants immediate response to cooling. We propose that the circadian component REVEILLE2 restricts plants responses to nocturnal reductions in temperature, thereby enabling appropriate responses to daily environmental changes.
Expression of advanced glycation end products and their receptors in diabetic periodontitis patients
Authors: Thomas Julie Toby , Joseph Betsy , Sorsa Timo , Mauramo Matti , Anil Sukumaran , Waltimo Tuomas
Published: October 2023

Aim

The systematic review aimed to compare the levels of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and RAGE (AGE receptors) expression in diabetic periodontitis patients with non‐diabetic periodontitis patients and to identify the relationship of AGE and RAGE levels with periodontal disease severity.

Materials and Methods

The literature search was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines by two independent researchers using four online databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and Pro‐Quest. Relevant studies published between 2000 and March 2023 were included in this review. The association of diabetes and AGE/RAGE levels on periodontal health, periodontal pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment loss (CAL) was studied.

Results

Sixteen cross‐sectional studies, including 2794 patients (age range 15–75 years), were identified in the final stage. An elevated AGE level was observed among patients with diabetes and chronic periodontal disease compared to the non‐diabetic group. Furthermore, the levels of AGE and RAGE are associated with CAL and PPD. Potential confounding factors like genetic and methodological differences were also responsible for AGE and RAGE variation.

Conclusion

Levels of AGEs and RAGE expressions in diabetic periodontitis patients differ from non‐diabetic periodontitis patients. The differences may impact the course and severity of periodontal disease.
Experiences of health and social professionals using care technologies with older adults during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: MARTÍN‐PALOMO María Teresa , GONZÁLEZ‐CALO Inés , Lucchetti Giancarlo , Badanta Bárbara
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate the perceptions and experiences of health and social care professionals concerning the use of technology for the care of older adults during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design and measures

A phenomenological qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive design using semi‐structured interviews.

Sample

Twenty Spanish health and social care workers in six Spanish cities between February and July 2021, during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

During the COVID‐19 pandemic care workers have become more familiar with technology devices, but they also recognize certain barriers for the implementation of technology, mainly in nursing homes and homecare, related to concerns of lack of humanization and difficulties in accessing and using these devices.

Conclusion

Politicians and social and healthcare managers should be aware of the benefits of techno‐care, reducing the difficulties in implementing it and making more funding and further training available to care providers.
The effects of long‐pulsed alexandrite laser therapy on facial redness and skin microbiota compositions in rosacea: A prospective, multicentre, single‐arm clinical trial
Authors: Park Sujin , Jang Hyunwoo , Seong Seol Hwa , Kim Ji Young , Lee Eun Jung , Bae Yu Jeong , Ahn Yong Ju , Kim Jihee , Oh Sang Ho
Published: October 2023

Background

Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder characterised by abnormal neurovasculature and inflammation in the central region of the face. The efficacy of pulsed‐dye laser and intense pulsed light treatments for rosacea have been demonstrated in several clinical trials. However, there is currently no research on the efficacy of long‐pulsed alexandrite laser (LPAL) therapy alone for rosacea‐related facial redness and its effect on skin microbiota.

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of LPAL therapy on facial redness in rosacea and assess changes in skin microbiota composition.

Methods

Subjects with rosacea (n = 21, mean age: 39.2 ± 11.3 years) were recruited from two medical institutions and received monthly LPAL treatments (Clarity II™, Lutronic Corp.) for 3 months. At each visit, clinical photographs were taken, and erythema was measured using a spectrometer. At the initial and final visits, the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Skin Sensitivity Questionnaire (SSQ) were evaluated. Skin swabs were obtained at the initial and final visit, and facial microbiome composition was analysed using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing.

Results

After three LPAL treatment sessions, the average facial erythema index, measured using Mexameter® decreased significantly from 360.0 ± 96.7 at baseline to 312.0 ± 94.5 at the final visit (p < .05). The DLQI and SSQ showed significant improvement of symptoms. Skin microbiome diversity and relative abundance were altered significantly, particularly in the genera Clostridium, Lawsonella, Bacteroides, and Lactobacillus.

Conclusions

LPAL therapy alone showed favourable efficacy for the treatment of facial redness in rosacea, with some impacts on the skin microbiota composition.
Going Dutch? Firm exports and FDI in the wake of the 2014 EU‐Russia sanctions
Authors: Kohl Tristan , van den Berg Marcel , Franssen Loe
Published: October 2023

We examine the 2014 European Union economic sanctions on exports to Russia and the Russian retaliatory measures on imports from several Western countries. Using the universe of highly disaggregated international trade and taxation data for firms in the Netherlands, we systematically analyze the impact of these economic sanctions on Dutch firms' exports and foreign direct investment. Our analyses account for the product‐specific EU restrictions on arms, equipment used for oil exploration and extraction, and dual‐use products suitable for civilian and military use, as well as the Russian import ban on various primary commodities. Our empirical findings highlight the overall negative impact of sanctions on the intensive margin of exports. However, having a foreign affiliate in Russia helps to mitigate the otherwise negative impact of sanctions on the extensive margin of exports. We also show that exporters do not circumvent sanctions by setting up a local affiliate in Russia. In fact, exposure to Russian countersanctions may even force firms to close their Russian affiliates.
A critical feminist system justification analysis of climate obstructionism on the part of conservative white men
Authors: Dakin Nicolette M. , Azevedo Flávio , Jost John T.
Published: October 2023

In the U.S. and other Western nations, one demographic group is most likely to downplay anthropogenic climate change and its consequences, to embrace the “discourse of delay,” and to resist pro‐environmental policies: conservative white men. In this article, we bring together critical, feminist perspectives on masculinity and environmental dominance and social psychological insights from system justification theory to hypothesize that identity‐protective cognition, material interests, and ideological legitimation processes combine and reinforce one another to motivate obstructionism when it comes to taking climate action. Our hope is that by integrating critical and empirical approaches to social science—and illuminating individual and group psychological factors that are embedded in specific historical and political settings—it will be possible to increase solidarity among environmental scholars and activists and forge a shared vision of climate justice across disciplines.
Herbicide resistance in Alopecurus myosuroides: The value of routine testing of seed samples submitted by farmers since 1985
Authors: Cook Sarah K. , Tatnell Lynn V. , Moss Stephen , Hull Richard , Garthwaite David , Dyer Chris
Published: October 2023

In 35 years of routine screening for herbicide resistance, a total of 3758 seed sample/herbicide combinations were assayed. Resistance testing was done in either pots in glasshouses (chlortoluron, fenoxaprop and mesosulfuron‐methyl + iodosulfuron‐methyl sodium) or Petri‐dishes in incubators (sethoxydim, cycloxydim and pendimethalin). With all herbicides, the relationship between herbicide efficacy and year of sampling was linear, with the slope representing the annual loss of efficacy. This was higher for the ALS inhibitors mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron (3.73% year−1) and ACCase inhibitors sethoxydim/cycloxydim (1.92% year−1) and fenoxaprop (1.36% year−1) than for the substituted urea chlorotoluron (0.69% year−1) and the dinitroaniline pendimethalin (1.10% year−1). These results are consistent with other studies on the relative resistance risk associated with these different modes of action. There was also a surprisingly good correlation between results for random and non‐random resistance testing, which has also been found in studies with other weed species in Canada and Australia. This indicates that routine testing of submitted samples can replace, at least partly, the need for random surveys which tend to be both labour intensive and expensive. These results, compiled over 35 years, show the value of routine resistance screening, not only for detecting resistance at the individual field level (‘micro’ scale), but also the distribution, evolution and impact of resistance country‐wide (‘macro’ scale). However, it is important that standardised testing methods, including appropriate reference populations, are used by different testing centres to ensure consistent results.
The effect of nurse‐led telephone‐based interventions on glycosylated hemoglobin levels in people with type 2 diabetes: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yuksel Merve , Celik Ferya , Bektas Hicran
Published: October 2023

Background

Telenursing interventions can contribute to achieving optimal glycemic control.

Aim

This meta‐analysis aimed to determine the effect of nurse‐led telephone‐based interventions on glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We searched electronic databases for studies published in English up to January 2023. This study was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 checklist. The intervention effects were pooled using a random‐effects model. Two authors independently assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

Results

Eight studies involving 1179 people with type 2 diabetes were included in this study. Interventions were performed for 15–30 min and 5–16 calls. There was no evidence of a significant publication bias. The evaluation of meta‐analysis data showed that nurse‐led telephone‐based interventions significantly reduced HbA1c levels in people with type 2 diabetes (mean difference = −0.53, 95% Confidence Interval [−0.89, −0.17], p = .003).

Linking Evidence to Action

Nurse‐led telephone‐based interventions focused on reducing glycosylated hemoglobin levels in people with type 2 diabetes can be used as an effective intervention to achieve glycemic control. We recommend holding an average of 15–25 min interviews once or twice a week.
Exploring the Effect of a Collaborative Problem-Based Learning Simulation Within a Technology-Enhanced Learning Environment on Tutor Perceptions and Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Detyna Michael , Granelli Francesca , Betts Tab
Published: October 2023

Alternative learning experiences and environments are being increasingly investigated, in response partly to technological developments but also following the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Educators have found that pedagogic strategies and learning environments profoundly influence behaviour of students, approach to learning, learning outcomes and overall level of satisfaction. There is nascent literature on how specific pedagogical approaches (in this case, collaborative problem-based learning) and environments (technology-enhanced learning environment: TELE) can positively impact student learning. In this article, the authors explore the value of a technology-enhanced problem-based simulation exercise for achieving learning objectives and engagement. This approach is novel in combining research on active learning, collaboration and simulation within a specific context. This was a mixed-method study, and staff and student participants were engaged, gathering data through several methods, including questionnaires and interviews. The data was analyzed through different methods, including thematic analysis. The results suggested that the pedagogic approach and learning environment explored in this study positively enhanced student understanding of subject content and learners’ ability to apply abstract theories and concepts. Moreover, evidence shows that these interventions increased learner motivation and knowledge retention.
Guarana (Paullinia cupana) but Not Low-Dose Caffeine Improves Cycling Time-Trial Performance Versus Placebo
Authors: Penna Eduardo M. , Harp Alec , Hack Brian , Talik Tyler N. , Millard-Stafford Melinda
Published: October 2023

Guarana (GUA) seed extract, containing caffeine (CAF) and additional bioactive compounds, may positively affect mental performance, but evidence regarding exercise is limited. This investigation assessed acute GUA ingestion compared with CAF on endurance performance. Eleven endurance-trained noncyclists and cyclists ( = 49.7 ± 5.9, 60.4 ± 4.6 ml·kg·min−1) completed a double-blind, crossover experiment after ingesting (a) 100 mg CAF, (b) 500 mg GUA (containing 130 mg CAF), or (c) placebo (P) prior to 60-min fixed cycling workload (FIX) + 15-min time trial. Oxygen uptake, heart rate, respiratory exchange ratio, blood glucose, and lactate were not different (p ≥ .052) during FIX. A significant interaction (p = .042) for perceived exertion was observed at 50-min FIX with lower rating (p = .023) for GUA versus CAF but not compared with P. Work accumulated over 15-min time trial was greater (p = .038) for GUA versus P due to higher early (1–11 min) work outputs. Work performance favored (effect size = 0.18; 95% confidence interval [0.003, 0.355], p = .046) GUA (241.4 ± 39.9 kJ) versus P (232.1 ± 46.6 kJ), but CAF (232.3 ± 43.9) was not different from GUA (effect size = 0.19; 95% confidence interval [−0.022, 0.410], p = .079) or P. Postexercise strength loss was not attenuated with GUA (−5.6 ± 8.5%) or CAF (−8.3 ± 9.4%) versus P (−10.3 ± 5.1%). Acute GUA ingestion improved work performance relative to P, but effects were trivial to small and unrelated to altered substrate oxidation or muscular strength. Ergogenicity may involve central mechanisms reducing perceived effort with GUA (containing 130 mg caffeine). Due to issues related to identical matching of dosage, whether GUA confers additional benefits beyond its CAF content cannot be determined at present.
Current evidence on the association of tongue strength with cognitive decline in older adults and the known risk factors of frailty, sarcopenia and nutritional health: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Yitbarek Getachew Yideg , Alty Jane , Lawler Katherine , Goldberg Lynette Ruth
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Evidence suggests that the pathology underlying cognitive decline leading to dementia begins 15–20 years before cognitive symptoms emerge. Thus, identifying biomarkers in this preclinical phase is critically important. Age-related decrease in muscle mass and strength, a known risk factor for sarcopenia, frailty and cognitive decline, also affects the tongue. This paper describes an a priori protocol by a multidisciplinary team to address the following questions relating to adults ≥50 years of age: (1) What is the current evidence on the association of tongue strength with cognitive decline? (2) How does tongue strength associate with frailty and sarcopenia? (3) What is the association of tongue strength with nutritional health?

Methods and analysis

Search terms will be identified then multiple electronic databases (PubMed, PsycINFO (Ovid), Scopus, Embase (Ovid), CINAHL and Web of Science) searched systematically for peer-reviewed articles published in English that address the following inclusion criteria: (1) human studies, (2) participants ≥50 years of age and (3) studies with tongue pressure values measured in relation to at least one of the following: frailty, sarcopenia, nutritional health, cognitive function and dementia (Alzheimer’s, vascular, frontotemporal and Lewy body). Grey literature also will be searched to identify additional studies, clinical trials and policy papers appropriate for inclusion. The search will be from database inception. After removing duplicates, two research team members will independently screen abstracts and identify articles for full-text review. The team will use a data charting tool for data extraction. Data will be analysed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Ethics and dissemination

The scoping review does not require ethics approval as data will be from publicly available sources. Results will be disseminated in workshops and conferences and a peer-reviewed journal paper.
Nitrous oxide for the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome: a randomized blinded trial
Authors: Hale Jason , Xu Jijun , Wang Dong , Rodriguez-Patarroyo Fabio , Bakal Omer , Kopac Orkun , Yamak Altinpulluk Ece , Onal Ozkan , Brooker Jack E , Cruz Miguel , Maurtua Marco , Agudelo-Jimenez Ruben , Sessler Daniel I , Turan Alparslan
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating neuropathic condition often refractory to conventional treatments. N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists have a well-established role in the development and modulation of chronic neuropathic pain. Nitrous oxide is widely used and generally safe anesthetic gas with NMDA receptor antagonist activity. We therefore tested the hypothesis that brief periods of nitrous oxide exposure reduce pain in patients with CRPS.

Methods

Patients with a diagnosis of CRPS were randomized to either 2 hours of nitrous oxide exposure on three alternating days (Nitrous Oxide) versus a placebo air/oxygen mixture (Air-Oxygen). Our primary outcome was patient-reported pain scores at 1 week and 1 month. Secondary and exploratory outcomes were physical and mental health (PRMOIS-29 v2 survey), specific neuropathic pain symptoms (McGill short-form questionnaire), and opioid consumption.

Results

44 patients participated in the study; 20 were randomized to Nitrous Oxide and 24 were assigned to Air-Oxygen. Pain scores did not differ significantly, with the estimated difference in means (Nitrous Oxide−Air-Oxygen) of −0.57 (95% CI: −1.42 to 0.28) points, p=0.19. There were also no differences detected in secondary outcomes, with the estimated difference in mean Z-scores for physical health (Nitrous Oxide−Air-Oxygen) of 0.13 (95% CI: −0.16 to 0.43), mental health 0.087 (95% CI: −0.31 to 0.48), and Patient Global Impression of Change score −0.7 (95% CI: −1.85 to 0.46).

Conclusions

Compared with air/oxygen, 2 hours of nitrous oxide/oxygen exposure for three sessions did not provide meaningful therapeutic potential for patients with chronic CRPS. Our results do not support using nitrous oxide for the treatment of CRPS.
Intraoperative landmark-based genicular nerve block versus periarticular infiltration for postoperative analgesia in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized non-inferiority trial
Authors: Kertkiatkachorn Wannida , Ngarmukos Srihatach , Tanavalee Aree , Tanavalee Chottawan , Kampitak Wirinaree
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Genicular nerve blocks (GNBs) are an emerging technique that have been used as a part of multimodal analgesia for total knee arthroplasty. The efficacy of intraoperative landmark-based GNBs, a recently introduced technique, has been established. We hypothesized that it would provide non-inferior postoperative analgesia compared with periarticular infiltration (PAI) when combined with continuous adductor canal block.

Methods

This study randomized 140 patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty to receive either intraoperative landmark-based GNB (GNB group) or PAI (PAI group), with 139 completing the study. The primary outcomes were the pain scores at rest and during movement at 12 hours postoperatively on an 11-point Numerical Rating Scale; the non-inferiority margin was 1. Pain scores at additional time points, intravenous morphine consumption, time to first rescue analgesia, functional performance and muscle strength tests, and sleep disturbance were also assessed.

Results

At 12 hours postoperatively, the PAI and GNB groups had median resting pain scores of 0 (0–2) and 0 (0–2), respectively. The median difference was 0 (95% CI −0.4 to 0.4, p=1), with the 95% CI upper limit below the prespecified non-inferiority margin. The median pain score during movement was 1.5 (0–2.3) and 2 (1–3.1) in the PAI and GNB groups, respectively. The median difference was 0.9 (95% CI 0.3 to 1.6, p=0.004), failing to demonstrate non-inferiority. The GNB group had higher intravenous morphine consumption at 12 hours postoperatively and a shorter time to first rescue analgesia.

Conclusions

GNB compared with PAI provides non-inferior resting pain relief. Non-inferiority was not established for pain during movement.

Trial registration number

TCTR20220406001 (www.thaiclinicaltrials.org).
Building a Framework for Identifying Arabic Dialects Using Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: Shatnawi Mohammed Q. , Yasin Muneer Bani , Huq Aseel Abu
Published: October 2023

Statista statistics show that social media usage has rapidly increased over the past ten years, and that by 2021, there will be approximately 4 billion 871 million Internet users worldwide. This is because mobile phone platforms allow users to express their sentiments and opinions in a variety of languages, including Arabic. One of the most widely used social media sites, Twitter offers a conducive environment for users to voice their thoughts. It is used by magazines and government websites to publish official statements and decisions, and while they write in Modern Standard Arabic, consumers interact with it in their native languages. To tackle issues with natural language processing, such as sentiment analysis and translation, a huge volume of data in many languages must be interpreted and processed. We combine a dataset from Katherine that covers the dialects of 8 countries with a dataset from the NADI shared tasks that was gathered via Twitter and includes the dialects of 21 countries. Three deep learning models with various word embeddings were used. The best results were obtained by CNN/BiLSTM with FastText (51.4
Shadow Program Committee: Designing for Diversity and Equity within Academic Communities
Authors: Varghese Delvin , Mthoko Hafeni , Watterson Jessica , Kulkarni Pranav , Richardson Dan , Lazem Shaimaa , Olivier Patrick
Published: October 2023

The development of early career researchers (ECRs) and their induction into academia has traditionally been a process that is at best obscure, and at worst, cronyism laden. Arguably this is especially true for cross-disciplinary fields like HCI, where relatively fragmented specialisms co-exist. With COVID-19 and its negative impacts on ECRs as the backdrop, we explored the design of a 5-month virtual training program for ECRs worldwide (with particular emphasis on the Global South). Through an action research approach, the program was executed in collaboration with the organizers of a cross-disciplinary conference. Eighty-one participants from 26 countries took part. The program created a collaborative learning experience for attendees and provided opportunities for networking and learning the nuances of the peer-review process. This article details our experiences and provides reflections on design opportunities to (1) develop professional development spaces for underserved researchers, and (2) leverage ECRs’ unique capacity for contributing to inclusive conference spaces.
Melatonin Ameliorates Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) through SESN2 Regulated Antiapoptosis
Authors: Zheng Min , Liu Mei , Zhang Cong
Published: October 2023

Background. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is one of the most severe complications after ovarian stimulation during assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, its pathogenesis still remains unclear. Melatonin is an important antioxidant factor in female reproduction and Sestrin-2 (SESN2) is reported to be involved in cellular response to different stress conditions. Whether or not melatonin and SESN2 are involved in OHSS is still a question to us clinicians. Methods and Results. We collected the granulosa cells of OHSS patients and focused on the role of SESN2 in OHSS. We also studied the role and mechanism of melatonin plays in OHSS patients. We found that the expression of SESN2 was increased in the granulosa cells of OHSS patients (n = 24) than those in controls (n = 15). Incubation with angiotensin II (1 μM, 2 μM) in HUVECs and H2O2 (0.1 mM, 0.2 mM) in KGNs increased the generation of ROS concurrent with the increased expression of SESN2, while melatonin treatment partly restored SESN2 levels. The mechanism study demonstrated that SESN2 was deeply involved in the regulation of AMPK and mTOR, whereas melatonin partially restored angiotensin II or H2O2 induced the activation of AMPK phosphorylation and the inhibition of mTOR, 4EBP1 and S6K1 phosphorylation, all of which could trigger cell apoptosis. Conclusions. These findings indicated that melatonin attenuated ROS-induced apoptosis through SESN2-AMPK-mTOR in OHSS. Thus, melatonin is likely to be a potential and important therapeutic agent for treating and preventing OHSS.
Bone Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles Ameliorated Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Lung Injury Via the miR-21-5p/PCSK6 Pathway
Authors: Cai Bo , Song Weidong , Chen Song , Sun Jie , Zhou Rui , Han Zhen , Wan Jian
Published: October 2023

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a life-threatening disease that currently lacks a cure. Although stem cell-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) have shown promising effects in the treatment of ALI, their underlying mechanisms and responsible components have yet to be identified. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 6 (PCSK6) is a gene involved in inflammation and a potential target of miR-21-5p, a microRNA enriched in stem cell-derived sEVs. The current study investigated the role of PCSK6 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI and its interaction with miR-21-5p. Notably, our results showed that PCSK6 expression was positively correlated with LPS stimulation. Knockdown of PCSK6 ameliorated LPS-induced inhibition of proliferation and upregulation of permeability in human BEAS-2B cells, whereas PCSK6 overexpression displayed the opposite effects. BEAS-2B cells were able to actively internalize the cocultured bone mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived sEVs (BMSC-sEVs), which alleviated the cell damage caused by LPS. Overexpressing PCSK6, however, eliminated the therapeutic effects of BMSC-sEV coculture. Mechanistically, BMSC-sEVs inhibited PCSK6 expression via the delivery of miR-21-5p, which is directly bound to the PCSK6 gene. Our work provides evidence for the role of PCSK6 in LPS-induced ALI and identified miR-21-5p as a component of BMSC-derived sEVs that suppressed PCSK6 expression and ameliorated LPS-induced cell damage. These results reveal a novel molecular mechanism for ALI pathogenesis and highlight the therapeutic potential of using sEVs released by stem cells to deliver miR-21-5p for ALI treatment.
Bayesian Vehicle Load Estimation, Vehicle Position Tracking, and Structural Identification for Bridges with Strain Measurement
Authors: Yuen Ka-Veng , Guo Hou-Zuo , Mu He-Qing
Published: October 2023

Vehicle load estimation and health monitoring of bridges are of great importance for the health monitoring of bridge structure under vehicle loads. Traditional methods for the estimation of vehicle load require the positions of the vehicles. The vehicle position tracking is generally conducted in offline manner and requires the installation of additional sensors. To resolve these problems, we developed a Bayesian probabilistic approach for the online estimation of vehicle loads, vehicle positions, and structural parameters for bridges. The crux is to model the vehicle load vector as a modulated filtered Gaussian white noise due to the fact that the vehicle-bridge interaction forces are in essence the responses of the vehicle-bridge coupled system under the excitation of the road roughness described by Gaussian random field and the constant vehicle weights. Furthermore, the vehicle speed vector is introduced to track the unknown positions of vehicles. There are three appealing features in this approach. First, it allows the simultaneous estimation of vehicle loads, vehicle positions, and structural parameters in an online manner. Second, this method allows for time-varying vehicle speed tracking. Third, the proposed method is applicable to the case with multiple vehicles. Examples for the case where single/multiple vehicles pass across bridges with uniform speeds/variable speeds are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method for vehicle load estimation, vehicle position tracking, and bridge structural identification using only strain measurements.