bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modifications to consent documentation with adults with communication disorders following brain injury: An exploratory study
Authors: Watermeyer Jennifer , Aylward Chiara
Published: July 2024

Consent documentation for research studies is often inaccessible to people with neurogenic communication disorders following brain injury and there is limited literature on specific modifications for informed consent. This exploratory study aimed to identify effective strategies and modifications to consent processes for adults with brain injury. Using a fictitious research study, we developed a set of Participant Information Sheets (PISs) varying in complexity, presentation format, and communication modality. Evaluations were conducted with eight participants. Findings indicated diverse participant preferences for PIS modifications, suggesting simplified vocabulary, reduced text, carefully selected images, and an interactive presentation modality as helpful strategies. Building on previous literature, we present refined guidelines for consent modifications for adults with neurogenic communication disorder after brain injury. These guidelines can promote more appropriate inclusion of communicatively impaired populations in research and assist ethics committees and researchers in preparing modified consent documents.
Diagnostic accuracy and radiological validation of intracerebral hemorrhage diagnosis in the Swedish Stroke Register (Riksstroke)
Authors: Sultani Gabriella , Hillal Amir , Ramgren Birgitta , Apostolaki‐Hansson Trine , Norrving Bo , Wasselius Johan , Ullberg Teresa
Published: July 2024

Background and purpose

National quality registries for stroke care operate under the assumption that the included patients are correctly diagnosed. We aimed to validate the clinical diagnosis of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in Riksstroke (RS) by evaluating radiological data from a large, unselected ICH population.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, multicenter study including all ICH patients registered in RS between 2016 and 2020 residing in Skåne County in Sweden (1.41 million inhabitants). Radiological data from first imaging were evaluated for the presence of spontaneous ICH. Other types of bleeds were registered if a spontaneous ICH was not identified on imaging. The radiological evaluation was independently performed by one radiology fellow and one senior neuroradiologist.

Results

Between 2016 and 2020, 1784 ICH cases were registered in RS, of which 1655 (92.8%) had a radiological diagnosis consistent with spontaneous ICH. In the 129 (7.2%) remaining cases, the radiological diagnosis was instead traumatic bleed (n = 80), subarachnoid hemorrhage (n = 15), brain tumor bleed (n = 14), ischemic lesion with hemorrhagic transformation (n = 14), ischemic lesion (n = 3), or no bleed at all (n = 3). There was a higher degree of incorrect coding in the older age groups.

Conclusion

At radiological evaluation, 92.8% of ICH diagnoses in RS were consistent with spontaneous ICH, yielding a high rate of agreement that strengthens the validity of the diagnostic accuracy in the register, justifying the use of high coverage quality register data for epidemiological purposes. The most common coding error was traumatic bleeds that were classified as spontaneous ICH.
Progress report on new medications for seizures and epilepsy: A summary of the 17th Eilat Conference on New Antiepileptic Drugs and Devices (EILAT XVII). I. Drugs in preclinical and early clinical development
Authors: Bialer Meir , Johannessen Svein I. , Koepp Matthias J. , Perucca Emilio , Perucca Piero , Tomson Torbjörn , White H. Steve
Published: July 2024

For >30 years, the Eilat Conference on New Antiepileptic Drugs and Devices has provided a forum for the discussion of advances in the development of new therapies for seizures and epilepsy. The EILAT XVII conference took place in Madrid, Spain, on May 5–8, 2024. Participants included basic scientists and clinical investigators from industry and academia, other health care professionals, and representatives from lay organizations. We summarize in this article information on treatments in preclinical and in early clinical development discussed at the conference. These include AMT‐260, a gene therapy designed to downregulate the expression of Glu2K subunits of kainate receptors, in development for the treatment of drug‐resistant seizures associated with mesial temporal sclerosis; BHV‐7000, a selective activator of heteromeric Kv7.2/7.3 potassium channels, in development for the treatment of focal epilepsy; ETX101, a recombinant adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 designed to increase NaV1.1 channel density in inhibitory γ‐aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) neurons, in development for the treatment of SCN1A‐positive Dravet syndrome; GAO‐3‐02, a compound structurally related to synaptamide, which exerts antiseizure activity at least in part through an action on cannabinoid type 2 receptors; LRP‐661, a structural analogue of cannabidiol, in development for the treatment of seizures associated with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex; OV329, a selective inactivator of GABA aminotransferase, in development for the treatment of drug‐resistant seizures; PRAX‐628, a functionally selective potent sodium channel modulator with preference for the hyperexcitable state of sodium channels, in development for the treatment of focal seizures; RAP‐219, a selective negative allosteric modulator of transmembrane α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptor regulatory protein γ‐8, in development for the treatment of focal seizures; and rozanolixizumab, a humanized anti‐neonatal Fc receptor monoclonal antibody, in development for the treatment of LGI1 autoimmune encephalitis. Treatments in more advanced development are summarized in Part II of this report.
Melanin accumulation in acanthotic seborrheic keratosis: Reduced proliferation and early differentiation of keratinocytes and increased number of melanocytes
Authors: Ueno Mizuki , Gabe Yu , Tobiishi Megumi , Komiya Aya , Yuki Takuo , Kawabata Keigo , Takahashi Yoshito , Suzuki Tamio
Published: July 2024

Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a common benign tumour, often associated with hyperpigmentation. To investigate the mechanism of melanin accumulation in SK, we have conducted comprehensive gene expression and histological analyses. We obtained five pairs of skin samples, including non‐lesional and SK samples, from the backs of three male Japanese participants aged 40–59 years. To examine melanocytes and keratinocytes in SK, three pairs of skin samples were separated by laser capture microdissection into the basal layer and the other layer in the epidermis. We performed a comprehensive gene expression analysis to identify differentially expressed genes between non‐lesional and SK skin, followed by gene ontology and pathway analysis. We found abnormal morphogenesis and cell proliferation in the basal layer, along with increased immune response and impaired cell differentiation and metabolism in the other layer of SK. We focused on cell proliferation and differentiation, as these are directly associated with melanin accumulation. Immunohistochemical analyses of Ki67, keratin 10, and keratin 14 demonstrated the decreases in the proliferation and early differentiation of the epidermis. Contrarily, no significant changes were observed in terminal differentiation markers, filaggrin and loricrin. Although the number of melanocytes was higher in SK than in non‐lesional skin, melanogenic activity showed no difference. These results indicated that melanin accumulation in SK is caused by delayed melanin excretion due to reduced turnover around the basal and spinous layers of the epidermis and melanin production due to an increased number of melanocytes. Our findings provide new insights for therapeutic approaches in SK.
Access denied: Reducing pediatric firearm mortality with smart gun technology
Authors: Mihailides Kary E.
Published: July 2024

In 2020, firearm‐related injuries became the leading cause of death in American children. Ensuring the safe storage of household firearms is one way to reduce those deaths. Since the 1990s, states have sought to accomplish that goal through child access prevention (CAP) laws, which sanction gun owners for unsafe firearm storage. However, recent survey data suggests that these laws are not effective, as they suffer from low compliance. To compensate for these shortcomings, legislators should repeal CAP laws and devise legislation requiring gun owners residing with children to retrofit their household firearms with smart gun technology.
Raised by machines—Children's collection of information as a catalyst for the creation of AI complaisant consumers
Authors: Matchton Juliette
Published: July 2024

Privacy laws have yet to effectively deal with the ever‐growing implementation of predictive technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), making critical decisions for children. To resolve this issue, COPPA should be revised, and a new division of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) should be created to provide a central informational source on the risks related to AI− a more effective means for parents to determine what types of data are being collected and used by AI, and allow parents to provide prior express consent for such usage.
Among‐species variation in six decades of changing migration timings explained through ecology, life‐history and local migratory abundance
Authors: Dale Vicki R. , Bolton Mark , Dornelas Maria , Magurran Anne E. , Dennis Roy , Broad Roger , Riddiford Nick J. , Harvey Paul V. , Riddington Roger , Shaw Deryk N. , Parnaby David , Reid Jane M.
Published: July 2024

Species exploiting seasonal environments must alter timings of key life‐history events in response to large‐scale climatic changes in order to maintain trophic synchrony with required resources. Yet, substantial among‐species variation in long‐term phenological changes has been observed. Advancing from simply describing such variation towards predicting future phenological responses requires studies that rigorously quantify and explain variation in the direction and magnitude of changing timings across diverse species in relation to key ecological and life‐history variables. Accordingly, we fitted multi‐quantile regressions to 59 years of multi‐species data on spring and autumn bird migration timings through northern Scotland. We demonstrate substantial variation in changes in timings among 72 species, and tested whether such variation can be explained by species ecology, life‐history and changes in local abundance. Consistent with predictions, species that advanced their migration timing in one or both seasons had more seasonally restricted diet types, fewer suitable breeding habitat types, shorter generation lengths and capability to produce multiple offspring broods per year. In contrast, species with less seasonally restricted diet types and that produce single annual offspring broods, showed no change. Meanwhile, contrary to prediction, long‐distance and short‐distance migrants advanced migration timings similarly. Changes in migration timing also varied with changes in local migratory abundance, such that species with increasing seasonal abundance apparently altered their migration timing, whilst species with decreasing abundance did not. Such patterns broadly concur with expectation given adaptive changes in migration timing. However, we demonstrate that similar patterns can be generated by numerical sampling given changing local abundances. Any apparent phenology‐abundance relationships should, therefore, be carefully validated and interpreted. Overall, our results show that migrant bird species with differing ecologies and life‐histories showed systematically differing phenological changes over six decades contextualised by large‐scale environmental changes, potentially facilitating future predictions and altering temporal dynamics of seasonal species co‐occurrences.
Factors affecting nutrient losses in hay production
Authors: Zamudio Diego , Killerby Marjorie A. , Charley Robert C. , Chevaux Eric , Drouin Pascal , Schmidt Renato J. , Bright Jhon , Romero Juan J.
Published: July 2024

The primary objective of haymaking is to dry forage adequately to inhibit the growth of undesirable microbes and halt residual plant enzymatic activity that causes nutrient losses. During the field and storage phases of haymaking, the environment, management practices, and other factors influence the extent of dry matter losses. This review discusses these factors and the strategies that have been developed to mitigate nutrient losses. A major emphasis was placed on hay microbiome dynamics, as it has been scarcely studied despite its importance on nutrient losses during storage and harvest, especially under humid conditions. The effects of cutting height, mower type, and swath manipulation on soil contamination were discussed. Also, the impact of environmental conditions and swath manipulation on wilting time was analysed for humid and arid conditions. Special attention was given to design improvements in harvesting equipment to reduce wilting time and field losses. Furthermore, we assessed the nutrient losses during storage caused by microbial and residual plant enzymatic activity resulting from excessive moisture at baling or re‐introduced moisture during storage. The spoilage extent during storage depends on bale moisture, size, density, shape, wrapping, forage type, and storage facilities. A Venn diagram analysis showed that each phase of haymaking process has a unique microbiome and that certain fungal and bacterial genera could be shared across more than one hay production phase. To take corrective actions, hay producers need to be aware of the increased susceptibility to nutrient losses associated with particular field and storage practices, environmental conditions, and forage types.
Investigating effects of sintering mean residence time on engineering properties of coal ash‐based lightweight aggregate
Authors: Alqenai Yousif , Balapour Mo , Zooyousefin Mohammadamin , Shresthal Nishant , Hsuan Y. Grace , Farnam Yaghoob (Amir)
Published: July 2024

This study examines the effect of sintering mean residence time (MRT) on the engineering properties and morphological structure of lightweight aggregates (LWA) manufactured from waste coal combustion ash (W‐CCA). A thermodynamics‐based framework was used to tune LWA manufacturing processes. A minimum 35% liquid phase (by mass) and a lower bound viscosity of 100 Pa·s of molten material were found necessary to successfully produce LWA. Using W‐CCA's chemical composition and FactSage thermodynamic modeling, the sintering temperature for LWA was set to 1075°C. Green spherical pellets made using a pelletizer were sintered at MRT of 5.1, 14.8, and 25.9 min to test LWA physical‐mechanical properties including, unit weight, specific gravity, water absorption, and compressive strength. Results indicated that unit weight ranged from 752 to 800 kg/m3, providing desirable lightweight properties. Oven dry specific gravity ranged from 1.24 to 1.43, complying with ENI13055 specification for LWA. Water absorption capacity decreased as MRT extended from 5.1 to 14.8 min and then increased as MRT proceeded from 14.8 to 25.9 min, achieving an average absorption capacity of 26% ± 1.5%. The inverse effect was noticed for compressive strength as LWA sintered with an MRT of 14.8 min demonstrated the highest compressive strength of 14.7 ± 1.8 MPa. The initial decrease in water absorption and increase in compressive strength are attributed to the efficient sintering of the LWA's internal structure. The inverse effect observed as MRT proceeded from 14.8 to 25.9 min was believed to be a result of thermal cracking due to extensive heat exposure. MRT of 14.8 min is recommended for LWA production using the coal ash utilized in this study for its buoyancy characteristics, sufficient absorption capability, and higher compressive strength.
Impact of oligosaccharides on probiotic properties and B vitamins production: a comprehensive assessment of probiotic strains
Authors: Yin Jia , Peng Xiaoxia , Yang Aijun , Lin Mudi , Ji Kunfa , Dai Xiaohui , Huang Juan , Li Li , Feng Like
Published: July 2024

From recent literature and research studies, it has been found that some bacterial strains have abilities with probiotic activities to produce B vitamins, which play essential roles in maintaining human health. Oligosaccharides can promote the beneficial microbes, however, the specific effects of oligosaccharides on B vitamins‐producing ability of probiotic strains have not been clarified. This study evaluated the effect of different oligosaccharides on the probiotic properties and B vitamin‐producing ability of 21 selected probiotic strains. The obtained results suggested that the strains could utilise oligosaccharides as the sole carbon source, and the hydrophobicity, auto‐aggregation, and biofilm formation of probiotic strains were specific regulated after fermentation with different oligosaccharides. In particular, the oligosaccharides had different influences on the levels of extracellular B vitamins produced by probiotic strains. These findings provide the foundation for studies on the B vitamins‐producing probiotic strains and their application in functional foods to prevent B vitamins deficiency.
International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH) recommendations for the performance and interpretation of activated partial thromboplastin time and prothrombin time mixing tests
Authors: Adcock D. M. , Moore G. W. , Kershaw G. W. , Montalvao S. A. L. , Gosselin R. C.
Published: July 2024

This guidance document has been prepared on behalf of the International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH). The aim of the document is to provide guidance and recommendations for the performance and interpretation of activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and prothrombin time (PT) plasma mixing tests in clinical laboratories in all regions of the world. The following areas are included in this document: preanalytical, analytical, postanalytical, and quality assurance considerations as they relate to the proper performance and interpretation of plasma mixing tests. The recommendations are based on good laboratory practice, published data in peer‐reviewed literature, and expert opinion.
Reality or illusion: A qualitative study on interviewer job previews and applicant self‐presentation
Authors: Schmitz‐Wilhelmy Annika , Truxillo Donald M.
Published: July 2024

Job interviews involve an exchange of information between interviewers and applicants to assess fit from each side. But current frameworks on interviewers' job previews and applicants' self‐presentation do not completely capture these exchange processes. Using a grounded theory approach, we developed a theoretical model that spans both literatures by showing the complex relationships between job previews and self‐presentation in the interview. Our study also introduces a new way of categorizing applicant self‐presentation and reveals why interviewers and applicants choose to use certain strategies. Based on 43 qualitative interviews with applicants and interviewers, we identified five dominant applicant self‐presentation responses to job preview information: Receding from the Application Process, Reciprocating Reality, Exploiting the RJP, Resisting in Defiance, and Reciprocating Illusion. Furthermore, we found that applicants present many versions of themselves that not only include their actual, favorable, and ought self but also their anticipated‐future self. We also identify interviewers' and applicants' conflicting motives for presenting reality and illusion. Our work provides a deeper understanding of job previews and self‐presentation by providing a big‐picture, yet fine‐grained examination of the communication processes from the viewpoint of the applicant and the interviewer, illustrating implications for both parties and proposing new avenues for research.
Bolstering the transfer of expatriate training: A conceptual model integrating the roles of accountability and identity
Authors: Grossman Rebecca , Burke‐Smalley Lisa A. , Panton Kareem
Published: July 2024

Although organizations increasingly rely on and invest heavily in expatriate assignments, a large proportion of these assignments fail. Given a notable gap in the expatriate literature, we advance a conceptual model focused on improving transfer of expatriate training to the host country work role as a means of addressing these challenges. We integrate relevant theory on expatriate cross‐cultural training, expatriate identity, and accountability for transfer to propose a conceptual model that delineates specific mechanisms through which the transfer of expatriate training, and ultimately expatriate adjustment, can be facilitated. Our model and specific research propositions are premised on the role of identity due to its centrality in developing a sense of accountability for transferring training, and its relevance to the success of expatriate assignments. The propositions and practical recommendations, unlike existing transfer strategies that are sometimes atheoretical or implemented haphazardly, are anchored in a common lens of accountability and identity. By doing so, we uniquely provide systematic and strategic insight about efforts to improve expatriate training, thus facilitating expatriation. A conceptual model and testable research propositions provide numerous pathways for advancing future research focused on the success of expatriate assignments through training. Practical guidance and recommendations, as yoked to a shared theoretical foundation, are presented to help organizations and managers bolster the transfer of expatriate training.
Effects of long‐term desmopressin treatment for nocturia in older people
Authors: Kurose Hirofumi , Ueda Kosuke , Chikui Katsuaki , Uemura Keiichiro , Nishihara Kiyoaki , Nakiri Makoto , Suekane Shigetaka , Igawa Tsukasa
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Desmopressin improves nocturia frequency; however, reports on its long‐term efficacy and safety are few, and concerns regarding its effect on body composition exist. We thus investigated the efficacy and safety of long‐term desmopressin administration and its effect on body composition.

Methods

This retrospective study, conducted at Chikugo City Hospital between August 2020 and December 2022, involved 133 men (mean age, 77.7 years) with nocturnal and persistent nocturia, who were administered an initial dose of 50 μg desmopressin. Efficacy endpoints included nocturnal urinary frequency, nocturnal urinary volume, hours of undisturbed sleep, nocturnal polyuria index, initial nocturnal urinary volume, and daily urinary frequency in a frequency‐volume chart (3 days), before treatment and at 1, 4, 12, 24, and 52 weeks after desmopressin administration. Additionally, the effects of desmopressin on body composition were examined, including blood–brain natriuretic peptide and a chest radiography, before and 52 weeks after administration.

Results

Treatment improved most efficacy endpoint evaluation parameters. Around 87.6% of patients showed improved symptoms after 52 weeks compared with those before treatment (score ≤ 3). The blood–brain natriuretic peptide level rose; however, cardiothoracic ratio was unchanged.

Conclusion

Long‐term administration of desmopressin is thus effective and safe in older people with nocturnal polyuria, with little effect on body composition.
Adrenalectomy for pheochromocytoma: Surgical outcomes and preoperative risk factors for hemodynamic instability
Authors: Suzuki Kotaro , Okamura Yasuyoshi , Bando Yukari , Hara Takuto , Okada Keisuke , Terakawa Tomoaki , Hyodo Yoji , Chiba Koji , Teishima Jun , Nakano Yuzo , Miyake Hideaki
Published: July 2024

Background

Surgical resection for pheochromocytoma (PCC) is still challenging. This study assessed the perioperative outcomes of adrenalectomy for PCC and investigated the risk factors for intraoperative hemodynamic instability (HI).

Methods

This retrospective study included 571 patients with adrenal tumors who underwent adrenalectomy at Kobe University Hospital and other related hospitals between April 2008 and October 2023. The perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic adrenalectomy were compared between PCC (n = 92) and non‐PCC (n = 464) groups. In addition, we investigated several potential risk factors for intraoperative HI in patients with PCC (n = 107; open, n = 11; laparoscopic, n = 92; robot‐assisted, n = 4).

Results

While patients with PCC had a significantly larger amount of blood loss in comparison to those with non‐PCC (mean, 70 and 30 mL, respectively; p = 0.004), no significant difference was observed in the rate of perioperative grade ≥III complications (1.1% vs. 0.6%; p = 0.516), and no perioperative mortality was observed in either group. A tumor size of ≥40 mm, with preoperative hypertension and urinary metanephrines at a level ≥3 times the upper limit of the normal value, were found to be significant predictors of HI, with odds ratios of 2.74 (p = 0.025), 3.91 (p = 0.005), and 3.83 (p = 0.004), respectively.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that laparoscopic adrenalectomy for PCC may be as safe as that for other types of adrenal tumors and that large tumors and hormonally active disease may be risk factors for intraoperative HI. The optimal perioperative management for PCC with these risk factors should be established.
Juvenile hormone‐induced microRNA miR‐iab‐8 regulates lipid homeostasis and metamorphosis in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: He Qianyu , Chen Shanshan , Hou Tianlan , Chen Jinxia
Published: July 2024

Metamorphosis plays an important role in the evolutionary success of insects. Accumulating evidence indicated that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the regulation of processes associated with insect metamorphosis. However, the miRNAs coordinated with juvenile hormone (JH)‐regulated metamorphosis remain poorly reported. In the present study, using high‐throughput miRNA sequencing combined with Drosophila genetic approaches, we demonstrated that miR‐iab‐8, which primarily targets homeotic genes to modulate haltere‐wing transformation and sterility was up‐regulated by JH and involved in JH‐mediated metamorphosis. Overexpression of miR‐iab‐8 in the fat body resulted in delayed development and failure of larval‐pupal transition. Furthermore, metabolomic analysis results revealed that overexpression of miR‐iab‐8 caused severe energy metabolism defects especially the lipid metabolism, resulting in significantly reduced triacylglycerol (TG) content and glycerophospholipids but enhanced accumulation of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). In line with this, Nile red staining demonstrated that during the third larval development, the TG content in the miR‐iab‐8 overexpression larvae was continuously decreased, which is opposite to the control. Additionally, the transcription levels of genes committed to TG synthesis and breakdown were found to be significantly increased and the expression of genes responsible for glycerophospholipids metabolism were also altered. Overall, we proposed that JH induced miR‐iab‐8 expression to perturb the lipid metabolism homeostasis especially the TG storage in the fat body, which in turn affected larval growth and metamorphosis.
Mechanisms for initiation of food allergy by skin pre‐disposed to atopic dermatitis
Authors: Gao Haoran , Kosins Allison E. , Cook‐Mills Joan M.
Published: July 2024

Food allergy can be life‐threatening and often develops early in life. In infants and children, loss‐of‐function mutations in skin barrier genes associate with food allergy. In a mouse model with skin barrier mutations (Flakey Tail, FT+/− mice), topical epicutaneous sensitization to a food allergen peanut extract (PNE), an environmental allergen Alternaria alternata (Alt) and a detergent induce food allergy and then an oral PNE‐challenge induces anaphylaxis. Exposures to these allergens and detergents can occur for infants and children in a household setting. From the clinical and preclinical studies of neonates and children with skin barrier mutations, early oral exposure to allergenic foods before skin sensitization may induce tolerance to food allergens and thus protect against development of food allergy. In the FT+/− mice, oral food allergen prior to skin sensitization induce tolerance to food allergens. However, when the skin of FT+/− pups are exposed to a ubiquitous environmental allergen at the time of oral consumption of food allergens, this blocks the induction of tolerance to the food allergen and the mice can then be skin sensitized with the food allergen. The development of food allergy in neonatal FT+/− mice is mediated by altered skin responses to allergens with increases in skin expression of interleukin 33, oncostatin M and amphiregulin. The development of neonate food allergy is enhanced when born to an allergic mother, but it is inhibited by maternal supplementation with α‐tocopherol. Moreover, preclinical studies suggest that food allergen skin sensitization can occur before manifestation of clinical features of atopic dermatitis. Thus, these parameters may impact design of clinical studies for food allergy, when stratifying individuals by loss of skin barrier function or maternal atopy before offspring development of atopic dermatitis.
Municipal street‐sweeping area generation with route optimization
Authors: Parsons Tyler , Seo Jaho , Livesey Dan
Published: July 2024

Street sweeping is used in urban municipalities worldwide but requires a great deal of planning for large‐scale implementation. Municipalities typically make use of the macro‐ and microapproach by using operational areas in which routes are assigned, but creating operational areas without an understanding of the expected workload, number of routes, and the travel distance to and from the depot may lead to increased statistics. In this paper, a combination of heuristic approaches is used to assign street‐sweeping areas on the macroscale and generate street‐sweeping routes on the microscale. For the area assignment, a two‐stage cluster approach is proposed, making use of the weighted k‐means algorithm and differential evolution. For the route optimization, a three‐phase augment merge algorithm is used to create initial solutions, the u‐turns are minimized with a modified version of Hierholzer's algorithm and tabu search, and the remaining u‐turns are removed using a forward‐searching ant colony optimization. A case study in The City of Oshawa, Canada, was used to verify the proposed methodology, and all metrics were theoretically improved.
Association between volatile organic compounds exposure and periodontitis: A representative cross‐sectional study
Authors: Dong Haitao , Wang Xueting , Xiao Ning , Yang Xin , Zhang Xin , Niu Piye , Chen Tian
Published: July 2024

Aim

Periodontitis is one of the most common oral diseases and a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Environmental pollution is closely associated with the prevalence of periodontitis. However, few studies have focused on the association between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and periodontitis. This cross‐sectional study aims to examine whether exposure to VOCs is associated with periodontitis, based on data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2011–2014).

Materials and Methods

We analysed data on blood VOC levels, periodontitis and related covariates from 2772 participants of the NHANES. The association between the blood VOCs and periodontitis was analysed using weighted logistic regression analysis, the restricted cubic spline (RCS) model and the weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression model. Interaction tests and mediation analysis were also conducted.

Results

After adjusting for covariates, for each natural constant‐fold increase in 1,4‐dichlorobenzene, the odds of having periodontitis increased by 16% (odds ratio = 1.16; 95% confidence interval: 1.08–1.24, p < .001). WQS regression model indicated that 1,4‐dichlorobenzene contributed the most to the association between VOC co‐exposure and periodontitis. Mediation analysis further revealed that total bilirubin levels mediated the association between 1,4‐dichlorobenzene and the prevalence of periodontitis, accounting for 4.32%. In addition, the positive association between o‐xylene and periodontitis was more pronounced in the <65‐year‐old group.

Conclusions

This study has provided relatively little evidence to demonstrate a specific link between VOCs and periodontitis. Nonetheless, exposure to VOCs remains a non‐negligible public health concern, and further research is required to investigate the association and potential mechanisms of action between VOCs and periodontitis.
Maternal disapproval of friends in response to child conduct problems damages the peer status of pre‐ and early adolescents
Authors: Kaniušonytė Goda , Laursen Brett
Published: July 2024

Background

Herein, we consider the hypothesis that mothers harm peer relations when they respond to child conduct problems by expressing disapproval of friends, which exacerbates the behavior problems they were presumably attempting to deter.

Methods

A community sample of Lithuanian adolescents (292 boys and 270 girls, aged 9–14 years) completed surveys three times during an academic year. Classmate nominations indexed peer status (acceptance and rejection), self‐reports described perceived maternal disapproval of friends, and peer nominations and self‐reports separately gauged conduct problems.

Results

Over the course of a school year: (a) conduct problems were associated with subsequent increases in perceived maternal friend disapproval; (b) perceived maternal friend disapproval was associated with subsequent decreases in peer status; and (c) low peer status was associated with subsequent increases in conduct problems. Full longitudinal, random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel mediation models confirmed that mothers who disapproved of friends were sources of peer difficulties that culminated in conduct problems and intermediaries whose response to child conduct problems damaged peer relations. Findings were stronger for peer rejection than for peer acceptance, suggesting that peers actively dislike those with mothers who intervene in peer relationships.

Conclusions

Maternal disapproval of friends in response to child conduct problems damages the child's standing among peers, which then exacerbates behavior problems. This consequential cascade underscores the need for parent education about the potential deleterious consequences of well‐intentioned interference in peer relations. Practitioners should be prepared to offer constructive, alternative solutions when youth present behavior problems.
Screening system for the detection of unknown or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus in a tertiary hospital: A retrospective study
Authors: Soriano Inés Borrego , Alcalá Beatriz Barquiel , Domínguez Óscar Moreno , Moreno Ana Laila Qasem , de Sevilla Elena García Pérez , de Villar Noemí González Pérez
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Hospitalization may be a valuable chance for the detection of unknown and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM). There is a screening tool at our hospital: in case of high inpatient plasma glucose level, an A1c value is added if no available from the last 3 months.

Aims and Objectives

Our objective was to analyse the population with A1c ≥ 9% detected through this system from 2021 to 2023.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was performed. Three thousand five hundred seventy‐two patients were screened. We studied 243 patients with A1c ≥ 9%.

Results

Fourty‐eight patients (19.8%) had unknown DM. The Endocrinology department was consulted in 39 cases (16%). In most of the cases (51%), there was not a mention in the discharge report, nor changes in the usual treatment (65.4%). Ninety patients (37%) improved A1c. Most of the ones that improved (58.9%) had a correct follow‐up, compared with those who did not (23.5%) (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Measurement of A1c during hospitalization can help us to diagnose unknown or poorly controlled DM. Therapeutic inertia and delayed diagnosis are two problems associated to DM that are confirmed by our data.
Insights into the cooling rate and preservative effect of slurry ice on large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea) in terms of the fish/ice ratio, salinity, and the ice mass fraction
Authors: Lan Weiqing , Zhou Qi , Zhao Jiaxin , Zhao Yanan , Xie Jing
Published: July 2024

The cooling effect of slurry ice as cooling medium on large yellow croaker (Pseudosciaena crocea) was studied by considering different fish/ice ratio, salinity and initial ice mass fraction (40%, 60%, and 80%). Results obtained with optical microscope clarified that the ice particle size and cooling time of slurry ice were decreased at increasing salinity. Best precooling efficiency was obtained with specific values of fish/ice ratio 1:2, salinity 5.0%, and initial ice mass fraction 60%. Then, the effects of precooling time (0, 3, 12, and 24 h) in slurry ice on the quality of large yellow croaker stored at 4°C were investigated. The results showed that slurry ice precooling could significantly (p < 0.05) inhibit the microbial reproduction and retard the quality deterioration of large yellow croaker. Therefore, slurry ice can be a promising precooling method for the quality maintenance of marine fish.

Practical applications

Large yellow croaker is extremely perishable due to its nutrient abundance. The spoilage process of fish is vitally influenced by the changes of internal environment and external environment after harvest. Timely precooling can prominently improve the shelf‐life of perishable foods. Slurry ice, a two‐phase system consisting of seawater (or artificial seawater) and spherical ice microcrystals, is regarded as an alternative precooling medium. Compared with conventional ice, slurry ice has faster cooling rate, little physical damage to soft tissue such as aquatic products and has better fluidity allows it to comprehensively cover the fish surface, thereby protecting fish from oxidation.
Groove pancreatitis: From enigma to future directions—A comprehensive review
Authors: Dahiya Dushyant S. , Shah Yash R. , Canakis Andrew , Parikh Charmy , Chandan Saurabh , Ali Hassam , Gangwani Manesh K. , Pinnam Bhanu S. M. , Singh Sahib , Sohail Amir H. , Patel Raj , Ramai Daryl , Al‐Haddad Mohammad , Baron Todd , Rastogi Amit
Published: July 2024

Groove pancreatitis (GP) is a rare and clinically distinct form of chronic pancreatitis affecting the pancreaticoduodenal groove comprising the head of the pancreas, duodenum, and the common bile duct. It is more prevalent in individuals in their 4–5th decade of life and disproportionately affects men compared with women. Excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco smoking, pancreatic ductal stones, pancreatic divisum, annular pancreas, ectopic pancreas, duodenal wall thickening, and peptic ulcers are significant risk factors implicated in the development of GP. The usual presenting symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and jaundice. Establishing a diagnosis of GP is often challenging due to significant clinical and radiological overlap with numerous benign and malignant conditions affecting the same anatomical location. This can lead to a delay in initiation of treatment leading to increasing morbidity, mortality, and complication rates. Promising research in artificial intelligence (AI) has garnered immense interest in recent years. Due to its widespread application in diagnostic imaging with a high degree of sensitivity and specificity, AI has the potential of becoming a vital tool in differentiating GP from pancreatic malignancies, thereby preventing a missed or delayed diagnosis. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of GP, covering the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, radiological and endoscopic evaluation, management strategies, and future directions. This article also aims to increase awareness about this lesser known and often‐misdiagnosed clinical entity amongst clinicians to ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Early clinical and quality impacts of the Age‐Friendly Health System in a Veterans Affairs skilled nursing facility
Authors: King Sarah E. , Ruopp Marcus D. , Mac Chi T. , O'Malley Kelly A. , Meyerson Jordana L. , Lefers Lindsay , Bean Jonathan F. , Driver Jane A. , Schwartz Andrea Wershof
Published: July 2024

Background

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are an ideal setting to implement the Age‐Friendly Health System (AFHS) approach, an initiative by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) centered on the 4Ms: what matters, mobility, mentation, and medication. AFHS implementation has not been well studied in SNFs.

Methods

A 112‐bed VA SNF implemented a facility‐wide AFHS initiative including the following: (1) participating in a national IHI Age‐Friendly Action Community; (2) establishing an AFHS workgroup centered on the 4Ms; (3) identifying meaningful clinical tools and frameworks for capturing each M; and (4) developing sustainment methods. Clinical (life‐sustaining treatment, falls, disruptive behaviors, and medication deprescribing) and quality outcomes (rehospitalization, emergency department utilization, and discharge to the community) in addition to patient satisfaction were compared pre‐ and post‐AFHS implementation (bed days of care [BDOC] 17413) to post‐implementation (BDOC 20880).

Results

Clinical outcomes demonstrated improvements in the 4Ms, including: (1) what matters: 14% increase in life‐sustaining treatment documentation (82%–96%; p < 0.01); (2) mobility: reduction in fall rate by 34% (8.15 falls/1000 BDOC to 5.41; p < 0.01); (3) mentation: decrease in disruptive behavior reporting system (DBRS) by 62% (5.11 DBRS/1000 BDOC to 1.96; p = 0.04); (4) medications: 53% increase in average potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) deprescribing (0.38–0.80 interventions/patient; p < 0.01). Quality outcomes improved including rehospitalization (25.6%–17.9%) and emergency department utilization (5.3%–2.8%) within 30 days of admission. Patient satisfaction scores improved from a mean of 77.2 (n = 31, scale 1–100) to 81.3 (n = 42).

Conclusions

Implementation of the AFHS initiative in a SNF was associated with improved clinical and quality outcomes and patient satisfaction. We describe here a sustainable, interprofessional approach to implementing the AFHS in a SNF.
Obesity treatment in adolescents and adults in the era of personalized medicine
Authors: Sundbom Magnus , Järvholm Kajsa , Sjögren Lovisa , Nowicka Paulina , Lagerros Ylva Trolle
Published: July 2024

In this multi‐professional review, we will provide the in‐depth knowledge required to work in the expanding field of obesity treatment. The prevalence of obesity has doubled in adults and quadrupled in children over the last three decades. The most common treatment offered has been lifestyle treatment, which has a modest or little long‐term effect. Recently, several new treatment options—leading to improved weight loss—have become available. However, long‐term care is not only about weight loss but also aims to improve health and wellbeing overall. In the era of personalized medicine, we have an obligation to tailor the treatment in close dialogue with our patients. The main focus of this review is new pharmacological treatments and modern metabolic surgery, with practical guidance on what to consider when selecting and guiding the patients and what to include in the follow‐up care. Furthermore, we discuss common clinical challenges, such as patients with concurrent eating disorder or mental health problems, and treatment in the older adults. We also provide recommendations on how to deal with obesity in a non‐stigmatizing way to diminish weight stigma during treatment. Finally, we present six microcases—obesity treatment for persons with neuropsychiatric disorders and/or intellectual disability; obesity treatment in the nonresponsive patient who has “tried everything”; and hypoglycemia, abdominal pain, and weight regain after metabolic surgery—to highlight common problems in weight‐loss treatment and provide personalized treatment suggestions.
Association between obstructive sleep apnea and temporomandibular disorders: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Machado Cláudia Aparecida de Oliveira , de Resende Camila Maria Bastos Machado , Stuginski‐Barbosa Juliana , Porporatti André Luís , Carra Maria Clotilde , Michelloti Ambra , Boucher Yves , Simamoto Junior Paulo Cezar
Published: July 2024

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a very common condition in patients with temporomandibular disorders (TMD). However, there is little evidence of a connection between them.

Objective

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to assess the association between OSA and TMD in adult population.

Methods

Case–control, cross‐sectional and cohort studies on the association between TMD and OSA were searched in the EMBASE, LILACS, LIVIVO, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Open Grey and Pro Quest databases. TMD should be assessed using Research Diagnostic Criteria (RDC/TMD) or Diagnostic Criteria (DC/TMD) and OSA using polysomnography (PSG) and/or a validated questionnaire. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Assessment Checklists; and an association meta‐analysis was performed. The effect measure included the odds ratio (OR) in dichotomous variables and a 95% confidence interval (CI). Certainty of evidence was determined by analysing groups using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

Out of the 1024 articles screened, 7 met the inclusion criteria for the qualitative synthesis, and 6 for quantitative analysis. All articles were classified at low risk of bias. A positive association with OSA was found in patients with TMD (OR = 2.61; 95% CI = 2.31, 2.95). A significant association was also found irrespective to the OSA diagnostic methods applied (for studies using PSG + validated questionnaires: OR = 2.74; 95% CI = 2.11, 3.57; for studies using validated questionnaires only: OR = 2.55; 95% CI = 2.22, 2.92). GRADE was moderate.

Conclusion

Patients with TMD presented a significant association with OSA regardless of the OSA diagnostic method (PSG and/or validated questionnaires). OSA screening should be part of the TMD examination routine. Furthermore, due to the different OSA assessment methods used and the small number of studies included, there is a need to include a larger number of studies using PSG to better elucidate this association.
Time spent away from bed is associated with oral hygiene and oral function: A cross‐sectional and multi‐institutional study
Authors: Yanagida Ryosuke , Tohara Haruka , Wakabayashi Hidetaka , Kinoshita Shoji , Sakai Kotomi , Isowa Tokiko , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Yamaguchi Kohei , Yoshimi Kanako , Momosaki Ryo
Published: July 2024

Background

Spending time away from bed is important in older adults. Not doing so can lead to functional decline rapidly.

Objective

To investigate the association between oral function and time spent away from bed in older adults living in nursing homes.

Methods

We enrolled 748 adults aged ≥65 years across eight nursing homes between April 2022 and March 2023. ‘Problems with oral hygiene’ and ‘problems with oral function’ were the dependent variables in the multiple regression analyses to determine their association with time spent away from bed.

Results

We selected 304 participants (76 men; mean age, 86.3 ± 7.5 years) and divided them into three groups: group S (< 4 h), group M (4 to < 6 h) and group L (≥ 6 h), with 28, 23 and 253 participants, respectively. Comparison of the characteristics between the groups demonstrated significant differences in the Barthel index (p < .001), time spent away from bed (p < .001), history of aspiration pneumonia (p < .001), confirmation of meals and food forms (p = .010), problems with oral hygiene (p = .014), and problems with oral function (p = .002). Based on multiple regression analyses, ‘problems with oral hygiene’ (p < .001) and ‘problems with oral function’ (p < .001) were significantly associated with time spent away from bed.

Conclusions

The time spent away from bed was significantly associated with both oral hygiene and function in older adults, suggesting the importance of extending the time that older adults spend away from bed.