bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unmet health-care needs among Jordanian Roma with chronic diseases
Authors: Abu Sumaqa Yasmeen , Abu-Abbas Manar , Khraisat Omar , Rayan Ahmad , Abudari Mohammad Othman
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify the reasons for unmet health-care needs and related barriers among the Roma population with chronic diseases in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive survey with a cross-sectional design was conducted, involving a sample of 347 Jordanian Roma participants. Data collection was performed using a structured questionnaire based on the Canadian Community Health Survey.

Findings

The analysis revealed that within the three categories of reasons for unmet health-care needs (accessibility, availability and acceptability), “Transportation issues” under the accessibility category constitute the most reported reasons: (mean = 90.4%, SD = 22.6%), followed by “Cost” (mean = 89.0%, SD = 26.2%) and “Care not available in the area” (mean = 85.8%, SD = 23.6%). Predictors of unmet health-care needs were being married, having health insurance and self-perception of mental health (OR = 0.215, p = 0.044), (OR = 0.391, p = 0.008) and (OR = 0.302, p = 0.002) respectively.

Originality/value

Unmet health-care needs are highly prevalent among Jordanian Roma, rendering them a vulnerable group susceptible to other diseases. To address this pressing issue, concerted and comprehensive efforts should be made to improve the utilization and accessibility of health-care services within this community. Furthermore, efforts should be made to elevate their social standing and status. facilitate their integration into the broader community.
Causal relationship between metabolic syndrome and hidradenitis suppurativa: A two‐sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Luo Xinxin , Ruan Zhichao , Liu Ling
Published: June 2024

Observational studies have suggested an association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), but whether this relationship is causal remains unclear. Elucidating the causal direction could provide insights into disease mechanisms and potential interventions. We performed bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) using summary statistics from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of MetS and HS. For validation, we replicated the MetS analysis using data from an independent GWAS. We applied multiple MR methods, primarily inverse variance–weighted (IVW) regression, and conducted sensitivity analyses to assess heterogeneity and pleiotropy. The MR analysis demonstrated MetS causally increased HS risk (IVW odds ratio [OR], 1.428 [95% CI, 1.193–1.710]; p < 0.001), with consistent evidence from sensitivity analyses. However, HS did not appear to causally influence MetS risk (IVW OR, 1.008 [95% CI, 0.988–1.028]; p = 0.438). This study provides evidence that MetS causally increases the risk of developing HS. However, we found no evidence for a causal relationship in the reverse direction from HS to MetS. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the identified causal association between MetS and subsequent HS development.
Semi‐natural habitat, but not aphid amount or continuity, predicts lady beetle abundance across agricultural landscapes
Authors: Iuliano Benjamin , Gratton Claudio , Kim Tania N. , Spiesman Brian J.
Published: June 2024

The amount of semi‐natural habitat surrounding farm fields is a common but inconsistent predictor of natural enemy populations and predation services. Standard land cover metrics may not accurately capture the actual availability of limiting resources for natural enemies and can miss important dynamics across space and time. Theory from animal movement and landscape ecology predicts that regions with more, spatio‐temporally continuous resources (i.e. food and shelter) should have larger predator populations and enhanced biological control.

To test these predictions empirically, we designed a study measuring aphids, lady beetles and predation services in agricultural landscapes in Wisconsin, USA. In two study years, we sampled lady beetles and aphids in 336 crop fields (corn, soybean, alfalfa and small grains) and adjacent semi‐natural habitat patches (grasslands and woodlands) across 24 1.5 km buffer landscapes at four to seven time points each, and in 1 year, we assessed predation rates with sentinel egg cards. We used aphid counts to model habitat‐specific aphid phenologies, from which we calculated landscape indices of prey amount and continuity. These indices, along with semi‐natural habitat area, were used to predict lady beetle abundance.

While there were strong differences in the abundance and timing of aphids by habitat, semi‐natural habitat amount was still a better predictor of lady beetle counts and sentinel egg predation than either aphid amount or continuity indices in these landscapes.

Synthesis and applications. Our findings confirm the robust relationship between lady beetles and semi‐natural habitat in agricultural landscapes, and highlight the complexities of measuring fine‐scale resource heterogeneity in real landscapes. Retaining or adding woodland and grassland patches in agricultural landscapes is likely to support larger lady beetle populations and enhance predation in crop fields. Our results suggest that these habitats may be more important for shelter than prey continuity, though this mechanism warrants further investigation. Future work should continue to refine experimental methods for the successful integration of landscape ecology and animal behaviour to support conservation goals.
‘What is the Problem Represented to Be’ in the educational policies relating to the social inclusion of learners with SEN in mainstream schools in England?
Authors: Nnamani Georgina , Lomer Sylvie
Published: June 2024

The social inclusion of learners with special educational needs (SEN) in mainstream schools has been a dominant discourse in global education and academic research. Concerns have been raised globally, and in England, that learners with SEN underachieve compared with non‐SEN learners. Studies have linked challenges faced by learners with SEN to inadequate training of teachers, delayed intervention and the lack of clarity in educational policies relating to learners with SEN. This paper draws on Carol Bacchi's (2009) ‘What is the Problem Represented to be’ (WPR) framework to analyse 10 policy documents relating to the education of learners with SEN in mainstream schools in England. This analysis aims to identify ‘problems’, tensions and gaps in educational policies relating to learners with SEN and to establish the effectiveness of these policies in addressing the social inclusion of learners with SEN in mainstream schools. The analysis revealed that the educational policies create ‘problems’ for learners with SEN due to their outcomes‐focused approach. There is little consideration given to inclusive education and the social inclusion of learners with SEN in mainstream schools. This paper argues that for successful social inclusion of learners with SEN, policies must prioritise empowering teachers to effectively promote inclusive education.
Identification of volatile and odor‐active compounds in pea protein fractions obtained by a modified extraction method using fermentation
Authors: Emkani Mehrsa , Gourrat Karine , Oliete Bonastre , Saurel Rémi
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the aromatic composition of pea albumin and globulin fractions obtained through either fermentation or conventional acidification using hydrochloric acid (control) toward the isoelectric point of pea globulins. Different lactic acid bacteria were used includingS. thermophilus(ST),L. plantarum(LP), and their coculture (STLP). The volatile compounds were extracted by solvent‐assisted flavor evaporation technique and quantified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). Odor‐active compounds (OAC) were further characterized by gas chromatography–olfactometry (GC‐O). In total, 96 volatile and 36 OACs were identified by GC‐MS and GC‐O, respectively. The results indicated that the protein fractions obtained by conventional acidification were mainly described by green notes for the presence of different volatile compounds such as hexanal. However, the samples obtained by fermentation had a lower content of these volatile compounds. Moreover, protein fractions obtained by coculture fermentation were described by volatile compounds associated with fruity, floral, and lactic notes.

Practical Application

The insights from this study on pea protein aroma could find practical use in the food industry to enhance the sensory qualities of plant‐based products. By utilizing fermentation methods and specific lactic acid bacteria combinations, manufacturers may produce pea protein with reduced undesirable green notes, offering consumers food options with improved flavors. This research may contribute to the development of plant‐based foods that not only provide nutritional benefits but also meet consumer preferences for a more appealing taste profile.
Hope as a practice in the face of existential crises: Resident‐activist research within and beyond the academy
Authors: Clarke Amy , Rogaly Ben , Senker Cath
Published: June 2024

Is it foolish to talk or write about hope in the face of widespread existential crises? Our answer is ‘no’. On the contrary, hope is more necessary the bleaker things become. In this article, we explore hope as a practice. Influenced by the abolition geography of Ruth Wilson Gilmore, we build on John Holloway's argument that such practices start from ourselves, where we are and our own capacities, and overflow that which contains us. We write as resident‐activists within three community organisations in the place we live in. Extending existing geographical literature, we show how our resident‐activism is distinct from, yet also entangled with, scholar‐activism and the struggles, contradictions and potential solidarities found in the UK's marketised universities. This way of working can itself be seen as a practice of hope. The article further explores practices of hope that emerge within the three organisations. Though emplaced, these practices are not confined in space or time, drawing rather on history as a resource and connecting with broader national and international processes. The article concludes by using Holloway's concept of rage‐joy to bring together practices of hope across the three organisations and among us as resident‐activists and participants in industrial action over pay, casualisation, workloads, equalities and pensions in UK universities. The result is a capacity to see the human in each other, a necessary step in resisting resurgent fascist politics and addressing existential crises.
Factor XII and prekallikrein promote microvascular inflammation and psoriasis in mice
Authors: Zhang Yurong , Chen Zengrong , Guo Junyan , Wan Qing , Zhang Yingjie , Li Huihui , Rao Haojie , Yang Jianfeng , Xu Pengfei , Chen Hong , Wang Miao
Published: June 2024

Background and Purpose

Psoriasis is an autoimmune inflammatory skin disease, featuring microvascular abnormalities and elevated levels of bradykinin. Contact activation of Factor XII can initiate the plasma kallikrein‐kinin cascade, producing inflammation and angioedema. The role of Factor XII in psoriasis is unknown.

Experimental Approach

The effects of deficiency of Factor XII or its enzymatic substrate, prekallikrein, were examined in the imiquimod‐induced mouse model of psoriasis. Skin microcirculation was assessed using intravital confocal microscopy and laser Doppler flowmeter. A novel antibody blocking Factor XII activation was evaluated for psoriasis prevention.

Key Results

Expression of Factor XII was markedly up‐regulated in human and mouse psoriatic skin. Genetic deletion of Factor XII or prekallikrein, attenuated imiquimod‐induced psoriatic lesions in mice. Psoriatic induction increased skin microvascular blood perfusion, causing vasodilation, hyperpermeability and angiogenesis. It also promoted neutrophil‐vascular interaction, inflammatory cytokine release and enhanced Factor XII / prekallikrein enzymatic activity with elevated bradykinin. Factor XII or prekallikrein deficiency ameliorated these microvascular abnormalities and abolished bradykinin increase. Antagonism of bradykinin B2 receptors reproduced the microvascular protection of Factor XII / prekallikrein deficiency, attenuated psoriatic lesions, and prevented protection by Factor XII / prekallikrein deficiency against psoriasis. Furthermore, treatment of mice with Factor XII antibody alleviated experimentally induced psoriasis and suppressed microvascular inflammation.

Conclusion and Implications

Activation of Factor XII promoted psoriasis via prekallikrein‐dependent formation of bradykinin, which critically mediated psoriatic microvascular inflammation. Inhibition of contact activation represents a novel therapeutic strategy for psoriasis.
Older Adults' Engagement in Advisory Councils and Committees: The case of Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Rounce Andrea , Funk Laura , Cherpako Danielle
Published: June 2024

While older adults and family carers have important contributions to make to social and civic life in Canada, meaningful opportunities for engaging in democratic governance are often limited. Using the province of Manitoba as a case study, we ask how relevant advisory councils and committees have been designed and constituted; how have they operated in practice; and what explains their span of influence and effectiveness. Interviews with older adults and family carers show that they want to be involved, that they believe that advisory committees/councils can be effective mechanisms for engagement, and that they think these entities can impact decision‐makers, especially in the health sector.
Three‐dimensional changes and influencing factors of tent space following osteotome sinus floor elevation without grafting: A 48‐month retrospective radiographic study
Authors: Zhang Wen , Chen Haida , Zhao Ke , Gu Xinhua
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To analyze the three‐dimensional stability and morphologic changes of tent space after the osteotome sinus floor elevation (OSFE) procedures without bone grafts.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐six implants placed using the OSFE technique with simultaneous implant placement without bone grafts were included in this retrospective study. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of the augmented sinuses were obtained pre‐ and postoperatively up to 48 months of follow‐up. The maxillary sinus cavity profiles were outlined using three‐dimensional virtual reconstruction and superimposition of CBCT scans. The three‐dimensional changes in the tent space were measured. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to explore potential factors.

Results

The implant survival rate was 97.8%. The mean volume of remaining tent space immediately after surgery was 96.8 ± 70.5 mm3, shrinking to 31.0 ± 24.9 mm3 after 48 months, while the mean percentage of remaining tent space volume decreased to 29.1 ± 20.7%. The tent space volume and the percentage of residual tent space volume only decreased significantly within 12 months after surgery (p = .008, .013). GEE results indicated positive correlations between the percentage of remaining tent space volume and implant protrusion length (p = .000) and apical height (p = .000), with a negative correlation between the sinus floor area immediately after surgery (p = .002) and the healing time (p = .022).

Conclusions

The volume of the tent space rapidly shrank after OSFE without bone grafts. Several factors might influence the tent space stability. Long‐term clinical trials with larger sample sizes are necessary to further validate the results.
Regulated vascular smooth muscle cell death in vascular diseases
Authors: Yin Zheng , Zhang Jishou , Shen Zican , Qin Juan‐Juan , Wan Jun , Wang Menglong
Published: June 2024

Regulated cell death (RCD) is a complex process that involves several cell types and plays a crucial role in vascular diseases. Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are the predominant elements of the medial layer of blood vessels, and their regulated death contributes to the pathogenesis of vascular diseases. The types of regulated VSMC death include apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, parthanatos, and autophagy‐dependent cell death (ADCD). In this review, we summarize the current evidence of regulated VSMC death pathways in major vascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis, vascular calcification, aortic aneurysm and dissection, hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, neointimal hyperplasia, and inherited vascular diseases. All forms of RCD constitute a single, coordinated cell death system in which one pathway can compensate for another during disease progression. Pharmacologically targeting RCD pathways has potential for slowing and reversing disease progression, but challenges remain. A better understanding of the role of regulated VSMC death in vascular diseases and the underlying mechanisms may lead to novel pharmacological developments and help clinicians address the residual cardiovascular risk in patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Empirical support of predicted larval connectivity patterns demand conservation action for queen conch (Aliger gigas) in The Bahamas
Authors: Kough Andrew S.
Published: June 2024

The conservation and spatial management of marine species with limited adult mobility, such as queen conch, is dictated by larval connectivity. Effectively placed reserves provide larval spillover to harvested areas while replenishing their own population. In past studies proximate to the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park (ECLSP), surveys and probabilistic larval transport modeling demonstrated a spillover effect from the ECLSP to surrounding fished areas, while suggesting that incoming larval sources are lacking. Previous work was expanded in both upstream and downstream directions, enabling the statistical examination of (1) how queen conch abundance was linked to predicted larval transport from breeding populations in the ECLSP and (2) how age and size changed throughout the island chain as divided by management and connectivity. Biophysical modeling predictions of larval transport from breeding within the ECLSP were significantly associated with the relative abundance of juvenile conch observed across a nearly 200‐km span. Further, the abundance and shell lip thickness (relative age) of adults and the size of juveniles were significantly larger in ECLSP than unprotected areas. This empirical support for an effective, well‐enforced marine reserve and for using biophysical larval transport modeling as a spatial planning tool should be strongly considered in conch conservation and management.
The role of religion in defining and diagnosing death
Authors: McGee Andrew , Gardiner Dale
Published: June 2024

This commentary is on the invited review by Graf et al. on pages 1301–1309 of this issue.
Association between new‐onset atrial fibrillation and dementia among individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhou Ying , Xu Minzhi , Yin Xiaoxv , Gong Yanhong
Published: June 2024

Aim

To assess the association between new‐onset atrial fibrillation and dementia among patients with type 2 diabetes, a group with a high prevalence of atrial fibrillation.

Materials and Methods

This cohort study included 22 989 patients with type 2 diabetes from the UK Biobank. New‐onset atrial fibrillation was ascertained from hospital admission records. We used an algorithm officially released by the UK Biobank to identify all‐cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. The algorithm was developed using multiple sources, including hospital admissions and the death registry. Time‐varying Cox regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between new‐onset atrial fibrillation and dementia.

Results

A total of 2843 participants developed atrial fibrillation, whereas the remaining 20 146 did not. During the median of 12.3 years of follow‐up, 844 all‐cause dementia, 342 Alzheimer's disease and 246 vascular dementia cases occurred. Compared with participants without atrial fibrillation, those with atrial fibrillation had higher risks of all‐cause dementia (hazard ratio [HR] 2.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.80‐2.57), Alzheimer's disease (HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.06‐1.96) and vascular dementia (HR 3.11, 95% CI 2.32‐4.17).

Conclusions

New‐onset atrial fibrillation was associated with a substantially higher risk of all‐cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes. Our findings highlight the significance of atrial fibrillation management in mitigating the risk of dementia in this demographic.
Olfaction foraging in visually oriented tropical arboreal ants Oecophylla smaragdina: Implications for insect predation studies using artificial sentinel prey
Authors: Yan Lin , Kagame Samuel Paul , Liu Yang , Mizuno Takafumi , Nakamura Akihiro
Published: June 2024

Because of the brief and cryptic nature of predatory behavior, sentinel prey has been widely adopted as an indirect way to identify predators and understand trophic interactions. However, sentinel prey presents only static visual cues, potentially biasing toward visually oriented predators while ignoring those that utilize other sensory cues for foraging. Despite this, the effectiveness of sentinel prey has rarely been tested. In this study, we focused on the weaver ant Oecophylla smaragdina Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), a keystone predator widespread in the Asian and Australian tropics. As this species has large eyes and is known to visually navigate in its arboreal habitats, we hypothesized that it relies on visual cues to forage and that its predatory behavior will be captured by caterpillar‐shaped sentinel prey. Ants were collected as colonies, and preference trials on baits were conducted using combinations of olfactory and static visual cues, including the caterpillar shape. Surprisingly, O. smaragdina showed little or no preference for baits in the absence of olfactory cues and did not differentiate the shapes of baits regardless of olfactory cues. Our results indicate that O. smaragdina is likely to make predatory decisions based primarily on olfactory cues, whereas visual cues might be used for other behaviors. Furthermore, O. smaragdina is likely to be left out by the predation studies using sentinel prey models, which is particularly alarming considering the dominant role of this species in the trophic interactions of tropical rainforests. Our study demonstrates that morphological characteristics, arboreal habitats, and visually oriented behavior do not necessarily suggest the use of static visual cues for predatory decisions. We suggest that sentinel prey models should not be used alone when the dominant predators are unlikely to use visual cues to make predatory decisions.
Spatial and temporal variation in ambient vibratory noise and its impact potential on a common urban arthropod
Authors: Pessman Brandi J. , McGinley Rowan , Hebets Eileen A.
Published: June 2024

Recent, rapid arthropod declines have been tied to human activity. Yet, the propensity for human‐produced noise to disturb the substrate‐borne (vibratory) channel remains virtually untested despite arthropods' ubiquitous use of vibratory information. Characterizing the vibratory landscape at biologically relevant scales is an essential initial step. We aimed to measure vibratory noise across space and time to assess its potential overlap with the urban–rural range and season of a funnel‐weaving spider, Agelenopsis pennsylvanica (C.L. Koch) (Araneae: Agelenidae), a common urban arthropod. We assessed 24‐h ambient vibrations (hereafter vibratory “noise”) at 23 sites across urban–rural Lincoln, Nebraska (NE, USA), during the adult season of A. pennsylvanica (August–October). Vibratory noise (amplitude, Leq) varied by ~15 dB across sites overlapping with frequencies within A. pennsylvanica's sensitivity (20–1000 Hz). Urban vibratory noise was positively correlated with the principal component containing estimates of traffic‐induced vibrations (e.g., traffic volume, road proximity, and impervious cover), whereas rural noise levels correlated with probable harvest times. Our findings indicate spatial variation in noise in urban areas and seasonal noise variability in rural areas. We also tested how A. pennsylvanica—collected from four distinct noise survey sites—use their vibratory microhabitat. We assessed daily spider position and dry silk mass within a microcosm that played loud and quiet vibrations (white noise differing by ~15 dB) in separate but connected chambers. Age affected the chamber choice (hereafter “microhabitat use”) of spiders collected from the loudest site, as younger adults associated with and used more silk in the loud chamber, but this effect decreased with age. As our data demonstrate that vibratory noise varies with A. pennsylvanica's microhabitat and season with a high potential for impacting behavior, we hypothesize that this environmental noise likely impacts other arthropods as well.
Family‐based Helicobacter pylori infection control and management strategy and screen‐and‐treat strategy are highly cost‐effective in preventing multiple upper gastrointestinal diseases in Chinese population at national level
Authors: Zhang Chen , Qi Ya‐Bin , Hu Ruo‐Bing , Xu Lu , Li Xiao‐Ting , Ma Jing , Shao Qiao‐Qiao , Abdun Mohammed Awadh , Ur Rahman Ishtiaq , Shi Wen‐Jun , Li Fu‐Qiang , Yu Jian‐Jie , Yuan Ming‐Kai , Chen Qi , Lu Hong , Ding Song‐Ze
Published: June 2024

Background

The overall benefits of the newly introduced family‐based Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection control and management (FBCM) and screen‐and‐treat strategies in preventing multiple upper gastrointestinal diseases at national level in China have not been explored. We investigate the cost‐effectiveness of these strategies in the whole Chinese population.

Materials and Methods

Decision trees and Markov models of H. pylori infection‐related non‐ulcer dyspepsia (NUD), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), and gastric cancer (GC) were developed to simulate the cost‐effectiveness of these strategies in the whole 494 million households in China. The main outcomes include cost‐effectiveness, life years (LY), quality‐adjusted life year (QALY), and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER).

Results

When compared with no‐screen strategy, both FBCM and screen‐and‐treat strategies reduced the number of new cases of NUD, PUD, PUD‐related deaths, and the prevalence of GC, and cancer‐related deaths. The costs saved by these two strategies were $1467 million and $879 million, quality‐adjusted life years gained were 227 million and 267 million, and life years gained were 59 million and 69 million, respectively. Cost‐effectiveness analysis showed that FBCM strategy costs −$6.46/QALY and −$24.75/LY, and screen‐and‐treat strategy costs −$3.3/QALY and −$12.71/LY when compared with no‐screen strategy. Compared to the FBCM strategy, the screen‐and‐treat strategy reduced the incidence of H. pylori‐related diseases, added 40 million QALYs, and saved 10 million LYs, but at the increased cost of $588 million. Cost‐effectiveness analysis showed that screen‐and‐treat strategy costs $14.88/QALY and $59.5/LY when compared with FBCM strategy. The robustness of the results was also verified.

Conclusions

Both FBCM and screen‐and‐treat strategies are highly cost‐effective in preventing NUD, PUD, and GC than the no‐screen strategy in Chinese families at national level. As FBCM strategy is more practical and efficient, it is expected to play a more important role in preventing familial H. pylori infection and also serves as an excellent reference for other highly infected societies.
Efficacy of Tetracycline Three Times Daily was Comparable to That of Four Times Daily for Helicobacter pylori Rescue Treatment: A Multicenter, Noninferiority, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Han Zhongxue , Zhang Qiumei , Mirza Iqtida Ahmed , Ding Yuming , Nan Xueping , Zhao Qing , Li Ruili , Xu Lidong , Zhang Ning , Duan Miao , Zeng Shuyan , Kong Qingzhou , Zhang Wenlin , Wang Hui , Wu Xiaoqi , Zuo Xiuli , Li Yanqing , Li Yueyue
Published: June 2024

Background

The optimal dosage of tetracycline remains unclear for Helicobacter pylori eradication. Frequent dosing requirements may decrease patient adherence and increase the incidence of adverse events, potentially reducing treatment efficacy. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of different tetracycline dosages in rescue treatment for H. pylori infection.

Methods

A total of 406 patients needing H. pylori rescue treatment were enrolled. Patients were randomized into two groups and received bismuth‐containing quadruple therapies as follows: esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily, bismuth 220 mg twice daily, amoxicillin 1000 mg twice daily, and tetracycline 500 mg either three (TET‐T group) or four (TET‐F group) times daily. At least 6 weeks after treatment completion, a 13C‐urea breath test was performed to evaluate H. pylori eradication.

Results

The intention‐to‐treat (ITT) eradication rates were 91.13% (185/203) and 90.15% (183/203) (p = 0.733), the modified ITT (MITT) eradication rates were 94.87% (185/195) and 95.31% (183/192) (p = 0.841), and the per‐protocol (PP) eradication rates were 94.79% (182/192) and 95.21% (179/188) (p = 0.851) in the TET‐T group and TET‐F group, respectively. The eradication rates for the TET‐T group were not inferior to those of the TET‐F group in ITT, MITT, and PP analyses. The incidence of adverse effects was significantly lower in the TET‐T group than in the TET‐F group (23.65% vs. 33.50%, p = 0.028). No significant differences were observed in treatment compliance between the groups.

Conclusions

The dose of tetracycline administered three times daily showed comparable efficacy to that administered four times daily, while significantly reducing the incidence of adverse events. The combination of tetracycline and amoxicillin in bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy achieved a high eradication rate in H. pylori rescue treatment.
Understanding and Defining Young People's Involvement and Under‐Representation in Mental Health Research: A Delphi Study
Authors: Perowne Rachel , Rowe Sarah , Gutman Leslie Morrison
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The mental health of young people (aged 16–25 years) is a growing public health concern in the United Kingdom due to the increasing numbers of young people experiencing mental health difficulties, with many not in contact with mental health services. To design services that meet the needs of all young people, a diversity of young people must be involved in mental health research, beyond being participants. This Delphi study aimed to identify different types of ‘involvement’ and to define and describe ‘under‐representation’ in young people's involvement in mental health research.

Methods

Twenty‐seven experts in young people's mental health research completed a series of online questionnaires. The experts were academic researchers, patient and public involvement (PPI) professionals and young ‘experts by experience’. Round 1 generated panellists' views on ‘involvement’ and ‘under‐representation’. Round 2 summarised panellists' responses from Round 1 and sought consensus (minimum 70% agreement) in nine question areas. Round 3 validated the findings of the previous rounds.

Results

Consensus was achieved in eight out of nine areas, resulting in a matrix (with definitions) of the different types of young people's involvement in mental health research, from being advisors to involvement ambassadors. The findings generated an agreed‐upon definition of under‐representation, an identification of when in the research process there is under‐representation and the characteristics of the young people who are under‐represented. Experts further agreed on demographic data that should be collected to improve reporting on involvement.

Conclusions

This study adds to our understanding of involvement and under‐representation in the context of young people's mental health research through expert consensus. It provides a practical resource for researchers considering involving young people in the research process and suggests the data that should be collected to improve reporting on the diversity of the young people involved.

Patient and Public Contribution

A research oversight group of five young people advised on this study. They contributed throughout the project—from endorsing the research question to commenting on the findings and dissemination. Two of the group reviewed all participant materials and piloted the initial questionnaire.
Study on expansion characteristics of Al–Al2O3 composite seals for intermediate‐temperature solid oxide fuel cell
Authors: Xu Shanping , Wang Xiaochun , Kang Jie , Wang Wei , Ding Yun , Zhao Xuepeng , Wang Yaocheng , Li Li
Published: June 2024

Al2O3‐based composite seal with 10 wt% Al powder addition (A10) possesses excellent plastic and mechanical performance under wide temperature range of solid oxide fuel cell. The thickening phenomenon of A10 seal between 250°C–400°C and 600°C–750°C is caused by the thermal expansion of organic additives and the volume expansion when solid–liquid Al react with oxygen to form Al2O3. The thickness change rate reaches the maximum which is about 5% at 300°C and is about 4.46% at 650°C. The Gibbs free energy for reaction between Al and Al2O3 in the temperature range of 523–1 023 K is all less than 0, which is proved by the fact that A10 exhibits excellent self‐expansion and thermodynamic properties in the solid oxide fuel cell operating temperature.
Binary anorthite‐cordierite ceramic composite from kaolin and dolomite rock with improved characteristics
Authors: Ponaryadov Alexey , Kotova Olga , Sun Shiyong , Kotova Elena
Published: June 2024

Binary CaO‐MgO‐Al2O3‐SiO2 (CMAS) ceramics composites of anorthite‐cordierite composition were synthesized from natural raw materials (kaolin and dolomite rock). The change of SiO2/Al2O3 ratio in kaolin/dolomite mixtures (12, 24, and 36 wt.%) and synthesized composites along with analysis of their phase composition transformations (X‐ray diffraction) during heat treatment (thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis) give the controlled design of aluminosilicate matrices. The obtained ceramic composites are represented by anorthite, a cordierite‐like phase whose ratio varies from 1.3:1 to 2.8:1. Mullite crystals, also included in the composition, reinforce the anorthite‐cordierite matrix. The morphostructural features of the samples were studied using optical and scanning electron microscopy. The porosity ranges from 7.8% to 24.2% depending on dolomite content. The impurities of iron and titanium interfering with obtaining a qualitative product are leveled by the presented technique including the heat treatment scheme justified by thermogravimetric analysis. Obtained CMAS‐ceramics of anorthite‐cordierite composition correspond to industrial international standards by their technical characteristics and exceed the requirements for heat‐insulating and chemically resistant materials by compressive strength.
Nerve function impairment and quality of life in patients with leprosy: a prospective, observational study
Authors: Sharma Apoorva , Narang Tarun , Takkar Aastha , Padhi Bijaya Kumar , Dogra Sunil
Published: June 2024

Background

There is a limited number of studies assessing the alterations in nerve function impairment (NFI) in leprosy over an extended period of time. To the best of our knowledge, no published study has evaluated neurological state longitudinally during treatment utilizing a combination of clinical, functional (activity limitation), electrophysiological, and patient‐reported quality of life (QOL) outcomes.

Methods

This prospective, observational study included leprosy patients of all spectra. Over 1 year of treatment, cutaneous and neurological examinations were done in addition to a nerve conduction study (NCS) and sympathetic skin response (SSR) assessment. QOL and activity limitation assessments using the World Health Organization Quality of Life brief version (WHOQOL–BREF) and Screening of Activity Limitation and Safety Awareness scale (SALSA), respectively, were also performed.

Results

Out of 63 leprosy patients, loss of sensation was noted in 43 (68.2%) at baseline. At the completion of treatment, proportionate change revealed no change in 18 (28.5%), restored function in 9 (14.2%), improved status in 34 (53.9%), and deteriorated NFI in only 2 (3.1%) cases. The association between NCS‐SSR abnormalities was significant for a longer duration of disease at presentation (P = 0.04), in multibacillary cases [OR 9.12 (95% CI, 1.22–67.93)], in those in reaction [OR 3.56 (95% CI, 0.62–20.36)] and in those aged over 40 [OR 1.93 (95% CI, 0.28–13.41)]. There was an improvement in WHOQOL‐BREF and SALSA scores at release from treatment (P = 0.005 and P = 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

The majority of leprosy patients on treatment show improvement in NFI at the completion of therapy. However, change is influenced by critical factors such as bacillary load, disease duration, age, and the presence of reaction(s).
Dealing with uncertainty in healthcare performance assessment: a fuzzy network‐DEA approach with undesirable outputs
Authors: Afonso G.P. , Figueira J.R. , Ferreira D.C.
Published: June 2024

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is currently the most widely used nonparametric method for assessing system performance. However, the DEA standard approach ignores the unit's structure and assumes that the data are exact and reliable. In healthcare, these assumptions may not always hold true. To address these issues, a new approach was developed, which transformed the data into fuzzy trapezoidal numbers and used a network framework. The study was conducted using data from Portuguese public hospitals, including 18 variables related to efficiency, quality, and access. The data were then applied using a slack‐based fuzzy network‐DEA model that could handle undesirable outputs. Due to significant operational and environmental differences between hospitals in Portugal, a subsampling frontier approach based on exogenous variables was used. The results suggest that there is potential to improve hospital efficiency in Portugal by around 20%, particularly in light of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Additionally, variations in performance were observed depending on the size of the hospital.
Higher haemoglobin levels are associated with impaired periodontal status
Authors: Tapiola Atte , Tapio Joona , Vähänikkilä Hannu , Tegelberg Paula , Ylöstalo Pekka , Koivunen Peppi
Published: June 2024

Aim

Cellular oxygen sensing mechanisms have been linked to periodontal condition, and levels of haemoglobin (Hb) (the main carrier of oxygen) can be used as a surrogate measure for hypoxia. We aimed to examine relations between Hb levels and key periodontal health parameters in a general population.

Materials and Methods

The population comprised 1711 (47% male) subjects from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966, for whom an oral health examination was carried out at 46 years of age and whose Hb levels were within the Finnish reference values. Relative risks (RRs) were estimated using Poisson regression models.

Results

The low‐Hb tertile (mean Hb 133 g/L) had healthier anthropometric, metabolic and periodontal health parameters than the high‐Hb tertile (mean Hb 151 g/L). Multivariable regression models adjusted for risk factors showed Hb levels to be positively associated with alveolar bone loss (ABL) and periodontal pocket depth (PPD), although the associations were weaker after adjustment for key metabolic parameters and were strongly influenced by smoking status.

Conclusions

Hb levels within the normal variation are positively associated with PPD and ABL. The association between Hb levels and periodontal condition appeared to be more complex than had previously been anticipated.
A bibliometric analysis of alternative drug therapy options in the treatment of androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Taylor Daniel , Ravi Shruthi Polla , Wang Tong , Talukder Mesbah
Published: June 2024

Background

Oral finasteride and topical minoxidil formulations are the only FDA‐approved drug therapies for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Research into dutasteride, topical finasteride, and nontopical minoxidil (low‐dose oral and sublingual) formulations in the treatment of AGA has spiked within recent years. Early findings show that these alternative drug therapies may have similar to improved efficacy and safety profiles relative to the conventional treatment options.

Aims

Conducting a bibliometric analysis, compare trends in publications on these alternative drug therapies, identify key contributors, evaluate major findings from top‐cited articles, and elucidate gaps in evidence.

Methods

A search was conducted on the Web of Science database for publications on the use of alternative drug therapies in the treatment of AGA. A total of 95 publications, published between January 2003—March 2024, and their citation metadata were included in the analysis.

Results

Dutasteride showed the greatest (n = 37) and longest (20+ years) history of publications, as well as the highest cumulative citations (n = 914); however, nontopical minoxidil showed a burst in research activity within the last 5 years (n = 33 publications since 2019). A relatively low number of randomized control trials (n = 3) for nontopical minoxidil suggests a need for higher‐quality evidence.

Conclusions

Our analysis reveals major trends, contributors, and gaps in evidence for alternative drug therapies for AGA, which can help inform researchers on their future projects in this growing field of study. There is enthusiasm for exploring off‐label formulations: nontopical forms of minoxidil (oral and sublingual), topical finasteride, and mesotherapy.
Comparison of clinical outcomes between family caregivers and professional caregivers in in‐hospital patients with acute ischaemic stroke: A prospective cohort study
Authors: He Yueyue , Wang Rui , Mo Linqi , Chen Min , Jiang Qian , Feng Ling
Published: June 2024

Aim

This study explored the impact of different care modes on the outcome of hospitalized patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) during hospitalization and 3 months after discharge.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study comparing the outcomes at hospitalization, at discharge, and at 3 months post discharge among AIS patients with different caregiving arrangements from 9, December 2022 to 20, August 2023. The general information questionnaire, Modified Barthel Index, Shortened General Comfort Questionnaire, Perceived Social Support scale, Herth Hope Index, modified Rankin scale and EQ‐5D‐5L were utilized for the investigation.

Results

The psychological evaluation scores during hospitalization, including comfort, perceived social support, and hope, did not significantly differ between the two groups of AIS patients (p > .05). Moreover, there were no significant impacts observed in terms of length of stay (LOS) at the hospital or hospitalization expense (p > .05). The proportion of patients with intact functionality was greater in the family caregiver group 3 months after discharge (16.5%). However, when stratified based on prognosis, the difference in outcomes between the two groups of patients did not reach statistical significance (p > .05). The analysis of ADL, quality of life and stroke recurrence in 276 surviving ischaemic stroke patients 3 months post discharge indicated no differences between the two groups across all three aspects (p > .05).

Conclusion

Older and divorced or widowed AIS patients tend to prefer professional caregivers. The psychological state during hospitalization, length of hospital stay and hospitalization expenses are not influenced by the caregiving model. Three months post discharge, a greater proportion of patients in the family caregiving group had intact mRS functionality, but this choice did not impact patient prognosis, stroke recurrence, quality of life or independence in ADL.
Can temporomandibular disorder symptoms and headaches be prevented in 13‐ to 15‐year‐old girls by information provided in a school setting?
Authors: Mejersjö Christina , Wänman Anders , Wenneberg Bengt , Bergström Eva‐Karin
Published: June 2024

Objective

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) may develop, especially among girls, during the adolescence period. The aim of this study was to study if information and advice in a school setting could prevent development of TMD symptoms and headaches during the early teenage period.

Methods

Thirteen‐year‐old girls, at 19 upper elementary schools were invited to participate in a study with structured information about the jaw system, TMD symptoms and risk factors, as well as advice how to manage risk factor and TMD. Six hundred and fifty‐one girls enrolled, of which 507 girls were followed for 2–2.5 years. Half received information on three occasions (cases), and the other half served as controls. Included in the analysis of incidence of TMD symptoms were those without frequently occurring TMD symptoms (not including headaches) at baseline (n = 396) and included in the analysis of incidence of headaches were those without frequent headaches at baseline (n = 297).

Result

The 2‐year incidence of TMD symptoms was significantly lower in the information cohort (19%) compared to the controls (28%) (p = .03). The 2‐year incidence of headaches was lower among those who were allocated to information (30%) compared to controls (40%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = .099). Cases who had headaches at baseline reported a significantly lower prevalence at follow‐up compared to controls (p = .03).

Conclusion

Standardized information in school settings can prevent development of TMD symptoms and headaches among young girls.
Strategy to identify common beans with resistance to white mould for dry‐irrigated areas: Additional evidence
Authors: Teixeira Pablo H. , Lima Renan C. , Paula Trazilbo J. , Carneiro José Eustáquio S. , Braun Heder , Silva Júlia E. A. , Vieira Rogério F.
Published: June 2024

In a previous study, common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes were selected in the field for reactions to white mould (WM), caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. These genotypes, along with the resistant control A195, were then evaluated in both field and greenhouse (straw test) conditions. The results showed that field trials effectively identified high‐yielding WM‐resistant genotypes for dry‐irrigated conditions. Here we challenge the results of this study with new data and methodology by conducting six sprinkler‐irrigated trials from 2015 to 2017 with five genotype groups (G). Three groups comprised genotypes previously studied: G1, seven partially resistant; G4, two intermediately resistant; and G5, three susceptible. G2 consisted of four lines selected for partial resistance in the current study. The resistant control group, G3, comprised the genotypes A195, G122, Cornell605, and Ouro Branco. WM was absent (one trial), or pressure was either low/moderate (two trials) or moderate/high (three trials). The average seed yield ranged from 2207 (G3) to 3178 kg/ha (G1). The contrast G1, G2 versus G3 was nonsignificant for incidence and severity index, indicating that genotypes selected for resistance in the field were as resistant as the resistant control genotypes. Additionally, the groups selected for resistance yielded 43% more and produced 33% less sclerotia weight compared with the control group. Our results reinforce the effectiveness of selecting WM‐resistant genotypes using beans originally bred for purposes other than WM‐resistance, specifically targeting dry‐irrigated areas. Furthermore, our results suggest that the use of genotypes selected for partial resistance reduces inoculum levels in the soil.