bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of perceptual‐motor exercises and physical activity on the cognitive, motor, and academic skills of children with learning disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Fathi Azar Elahe , Mirzaie Hooshang , Jamshidian Ehsan , Hojati Elahe
Published: March 2023

Background

Children with specific learning disorders (SLD) may have issues in cognitive, motor, and academic skills, affecting their mental health and level of participation in academic and nonacademic activities at school and in everyday life. Research shows that perceptual–motor (PM) exercises and physical activities can improve the cognitive and motor skills of typically developing children. To use PM exercises as an intervention in clinical practice for children with learning disorders, or to use it in future research, it seems necessary to discuss and summarize the existing documents in this group of children.

Objectives

We aimed to appraise the extent, and the quality of studies about PM interventions for enhancing cognitive, motor, and academic skills in children with learning disorders.

Methods

The search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Articles published between January 2000 and June 2022 were searched in the following scientific databases: PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane library, Science direct, and Google Scholar. The study eligibility criteria were previously established according to the PICOS model. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies, and the Cochrane Collaboration tool (ROB2) was used to assess the risk of bias.

Results

The initial search yielded 2160 studies among which 10 studies were systematically reviewed. The total number of participants was 483 children (intervention: 251; control: 232). Findings showed significant improvements in cognitive skills (n = 7/8) such as working memory, attention, and information processing speed. In addition, studies showed that PM and physical activity interventions could increase academic performance (n = 4/5) and motor skills (n = 5/5) in children with LD. Results regarding the mental health effects of PM exercises (n = 1/3) are few in number and contradicting.

Discussion

PM exercises may positively affect cognitive, motor, and academic skills in children with SLD; However, due to the small number of studies, fair methodological quality, and high risk of bias, caution should be taken when interpreting the results.
An agenda for future research regarding the mental health of young people with care experience
Authors: Devaney John , Power Luke , Jacobs Paula , Davidson Gavin , Hiller Rachel , Martin Joanna , McCartan Claire , McCusker Pearse , McGuire Rosie , Phillips Alice , Roesch‐Marsh Autumn , Thapar Anita
Published: March 2023

Young people who are currently or were previously in state care have consistently been found to have much higher rates of mental health and neurodevelopmental difficulties than the general youth population. While a number of high‐quality reviews highlight what research has been undertaken in relation to the mental health of young people with care experience and the gaps in our knowledge and understanding, there is, until now, no consensus, so far as we aware, as to where our collective research efforts should be directed with this important group. Through a series of UK wide workshops, we undertook a consultative process to identify an agreed research agenda between those with lived experience of being in care (n = 15), practitioners, policy makers and researchers (n = 59), for future research regarding the mental health of young people with care experience, including those who are neurodiverse/have a neurodevelopmental difficulty. This consensus statement identified 21 foci within four broad categories: how we conceptualize mental health; under‐studied populations; under‐studied topics; and underused methodologies. We hope that those who commission, fund and undertake research will engage in this discussion about the future agenda for research regarding the mental health of young people with care experience.
Roles of p38 MAPK signalling in intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Shi Zheng‐wei , Zhu Lei , Song Zong‐rang , Liu Tuan‐jiang , Hao Ding‐jun
Published: March 2023

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a common degenerative disease mediated by multiple factors. Because of its complex aetiology and pathology, no specific molecular mechanisms have yet been identified and no definitive treatments are currently available for IVDD. p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signalling, part of the serine and threonine (Ser/Thr) protein kinases family, is associated with the progression of IVDD, by mediating the inflammatory response, increasing extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation, promoting cell apoptosis and senescence and suppressing cell proliferation and autophagy. Meanwhile, the inhibition of p38 MAPK signalling has a significant effect on IVDD treatment. In this review, we first summarize the regulation of p38 MAPK signalling and then highlight the changes in the expression of p38 MAPK signalling and their impact on pathological process of IVDD. Moreover, we discuss the current applications and future prospects of p38 MAPK as a therapeutic target for IVDD treatment.
Asset Smoothing and Consumption Smoothing: Disaster‐coping Strategies in Noncontiguous and Contiguous Destitute Areas
Authors: Zhou Li , Sun Jie , Hu Wuyang , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2023

Do households sell assets in order to smooth consumption? The empirical evidence is mixed. Using household‐ and village‐level data in the context of China's poverty alleviation policy, we analyze the relationship between climate shocks and household coping behaviors from the perspective of whether coping strategies to deal with weather shocks are sensitive to the contiguity of destitute areas. Our results indicate that, unlike households living in noncontiguous destitute areas, households struck by weather shocks in contiguous destitute areas tended not to reduce or liquidate assets. To overcome weather shocks, households in contiguous destitute areas instead reduced household consumption, such as food consumption and increased nonfarm working hours. Our findings point to the possibility that the implicit assumption of consumption smoothing coupled with a failure to incorporate explicitly the factor of contiguous regions has led to seemingly divergent findings in the literature regarding consumption smoothing.
Non‐reproductive dispersal: an important driver of migratory range dynamics and connectivity
Authors: Vickers Stephen H. , Franco Aldina M. A. , Gilroy James J.
Published: March 2023

Dispersal is the primary ecological process underpinning spatial dynamics in motile species by generating flux in reproductive locations over time. In migratory species, dispersal can also occur around non‐breeding ranges, but this form currently lacks a unifying theoretical framework. We present a novel conceptual model for dispersal in migrants that builds upon existing literature, differentiating ‘reproductive' dispersal (i.e. changes in breeding locations) from ‘non‐reproductive' dispersal, which we define as movements resulting in inter‐annual or inter‐generational changes in non‐breeding locations. Crucially, unlike reproductive dispersal where movement outcomes are naturally propagated between generations, the outcomes of non‐reproductive dispersal can be non‐heritable. We use simulations of a solo‐migrant population with a genetically encoded migratory programme to illustrate how variation in this heritability exerts a strong influence on both migratory connectivity and range shift propensity. When exposed to spatially uncoupled shifts in habitable ranges (i.e. seasonal climate niches shifting at different rates), long‐term persistence of simulated populations required changes in migratory programmes to arise through heritable forms of non‐reproductive dispersal (e.g. mutations in migratory gene complexes). By contrast, non‐heritable dispersal mechanisms (e.g. navigation errors) cannot drive long‐term shifts in non‐breeding ranges, despite being a major component of realised dispersal and migratory connectivity patterns. Migratory connectivity metrics conflate these heritable and non‐heritable drivers of non‐reproductive dispersal, and therefore have limited power in predicting population responses to environmental change. Our models provide a framework for improving our understanding of spatial dynamics in migratory populations, and highlight the importance of teasing apart the mechanisms that drive migratory variability in order to evaluate and predict range plasticity in migrants.
Destruction of Fraxinus angustifolia and Fraxinus ornus seeds under storage conditions caused by Epicoccum nigrum
Authors: Vemić Aleksandar , Popović Vladan , Janoušek Josef , Radulović Zlatan
Published: March 2023

During the period of seed storage in 2019, stored Fraxinus angustifolia and F. ornus seeds showed signs of infection and fungus Epicoccum nigrum was isolated from mould and necrotic lesions on the seeds. In order to confirm the pathogenicity of E. nigrum towards F. angustifolia and F. ornus seeds, an experiment that included inoculation of seeds with E. nigrum and the assessment of germinability was performed. The inoculation with E. nigrum strain caused mould to around 20% of F. angustifolia and 58% of F. ornus, necrotic lesions to 96% of F. angustifolia and 92% of F. ornus, and decrease in germinability to 95% of F. angustifolia and 97% of F. ornus seeds. This study presented, for the first time, the ability of E. nigrum to cause high infection rates and reduced germinability of the F. angustifolia and F. ornus stored seeds. The transmission routes and possibilities for preventive strategies were discussed.
Respiratory phenotypes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis as determined by respiratory questions on the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised and their relation to respiratory tests
Authors: Pinto Susana , Oliveira Santos Miguel , Gromicho Marta , Swash Michael , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: March 2023

Background and purpose

Respiratory insufficiency and its complications are the main cause of death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Respiratory symptoms are scored in questions Q10 (dyspnoea) and Q11 (orthopnoea) of the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale–Revised (ALSFRS‐R). The association of respiratory test alterations with respiratory symptoms is unclear.

Methods

Patients with ALS and progressive muscular atrophy were included. We retrospectively recorded demographic data, ALSFRS‐R, forced vital capacity (FVC), maximal inspiratory (MIP) and expiratory (MEP) pressures, mouth occlusion pressure at 100 ms, nocturnal oximetry (SpO2mean), arterial blood gases, and phrenic nerve amplitude (PhrenAmpl). Three groups were categorized: G1, normal Q10 and Q11; G2, abnormal Q10; and G3, abnormal Q10 and Q11 or only abnormal Q11. A binary logistic regression model explored independent predictors.

Results

We included 276 patients (153 men, onset age = 62.6 ± 11.0 years, disease duration = 13.0 ± 9.6 months, spinal onset in 182) with mean survival of 40.1 ± 26.0 months. Gender, onset region, and disease duration were similar in G1 (n = 149), G2 (n = 78), and G3 (n = 49). Time to noninvasive ventilation (NIV) was shorter in G3 (p < 0.001), but survival was similar. ALSFRS‐R subscores were significantly different (G1 > G2 > G3, p < 0.001), except for lower limb subscore (p = 0.077). G2 and G3 patients were older than G1 (p < 0.001), and had lower FVC, MIP, MEP, PhrenAmpl, and SpO2mean. Independent predictors for G2 were MIP and SpO2mean; for G3, the only independent predictor was PhrenAmpl.

Conclusions

These three distinct ALS phenotypic respiratory categories represent progressive stages of ventilatory dysfunction, supporting ALSFRS‐R clinical relevance. Orthopnoea is a severe symptom that should prompt NIV, phrenic nerve response being an independent predictor. Early NIV promotes similar survival for G2 and G3.
Proximity to oilseed rape fields affects plant pollination and pollinator‐mediated selection on a co‐flowering plant on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Qiu Yizhi , Yan Xiaoping , Ma Hui , Wang Yuxian , Yang Rong , Opedal Øystein H. , Zhao Zhigang
Published: March 2023

The ecological effects of mass‐flowering crops on pollinator abundance and species richness of neighbouring habitats are well established, yet the potential evolutionary consequences remain unclear. We studied effects of proximity to a mass‐flowering crop on the pollination of local co‐flowering plants and on patterns of natural selection on a pollination‐generalised plant on the Tibetan Plateau. We recorded pollinator visitation rates and community composition at different distances (near vs. far) to oilseed rape (Brassica napus) fields in two habitat types and quantified pollinator‐mediated selection on attractive traits of Trollius ranunculoides. The proximity to oilseed rape increased pollinator visitation in neighbouring alpine meadows and changed pollinator composition in neighbouring shrub meadows. Trollius ranunculoides in the alpine meadow near oilseed rape received three times more pollinator visits (mainly bees) and consequently had a 16.5% increase in seed set but also received slightly more heterospecific pollen per stigma. In contrast, pollinator visitation to T. ranunculoides in the shrub meadow near oilseed rape was three times lower (mainly flies), leading to a 10.7% lower seed despite no effect on pollen deposition. The proximity to the oilseed rape field intensified pollinator‐mediated selection on flower size and weakened selection on flower height of T. ranunculoides in the alpine meadow but did not affect phenotypic selection on either trait in the shrub meadow. Our study highlights context‐dependent variation in plant–pollinator interactions close to mass‐flowering oilseed rape, suggesting potential effects on the evolution of flower traits of native plants through altered pollinator‐mediated selection. However, context dependence may make these effects difficult to predict.
High‐cycle and very‐high‐cycle fatigue behavior at two stress ratios of Ti‐6Al‐4V manufactured via laser powder bed fusion with different surface states
Authors: Fu Rui , Zheng Liang , Zhong Zheng , Hong Youshi
Published: March 2023

The high‐cycle fatigue (HCF) and very‐high‐cycle fatigue (VHCF) behavior of Ti‐6Al‐4V manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (L‐PBF) was investigated to reveal the effects of surface roughness and stress ratio on fatigue performance. Fatigue tests were performed by an ultrasonic vibration machine with a frequency of 20 kHz. The fatigue strength of surface‐polished specimens is generally higher than that of as‐built specimens in HCF and VHCF regimes. Fatigue cracks initiated from the subsurface of as‐built and surface‐polished L‐PBF Ti‐6Al‐4V. The values of size and depth for the defects that acted as fatigue crack origins present large scattering for L‐PBF Ti‐6Al‐4V due to the interaction between surface roughness and subsurface defects. For surface‐polished L‐PBF Ti‐6Al‐4V, fatigue cracks have almost the same resistance to propagation at both stress ratios of R = −1 and 0.7.
Satellite‐based evidence highlights a considerable increase of urban tree cooling benefits from 2000 to 2015
Authors: Zhao Jiacheng , Zhao Xiang , Wu Donghai , Meili Naika , Fatichi Simone
Published: March 2023

Tree planting is a prevalent strategy to mitigate urban heat. Tree cooling efficiency (TCE), defined as the temperature reduction for a 1% tree cover increase, plays an important role in urban climate as it regulates the capacity of trees to alter the surface energy and water budget. However, the spatial variation and more importantly, temporal heterogeneity of TCE in global cities are not fully explored. Here, we used Landsat‐based tree cover and land surface temperature (LST) to compare TCEs at a reference air temperature and tree cover level across 806 global cities and to explore their potential drivers with a boosted regression tree (BRT) machine learning model. From the results, we found that TCE is spatially regulated by not only leaf area index (LAI) but climate variables and anthropogenic factors especially city albedo, without a specific variable dominating the others. However, such spatial difference is attenuated by the decrease of TCE with tree cover, most pronounced in midlatitude cities. During the period 2000–2015, more than 90% of analyzed cities showed an increasing trend in TCE, which is likely explained by a combined result of the increase in LAI, intensified solar radiation due to decreased aerosol content, increase in urban vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and decrease of city albedo. Concurrently, significant urban afforestation occurred across many cities showing a global city‐scale mean tree cover increase of 5.3 ± 3.8% from 2000 to 2015. Over the growing season, such increases combined with an increasing TCE were estimated to on average yield a midday surface cooling of 1.5 ± 1.3°C in tree‐covered urban areas. These results are offering new insights into the use of urban afforestation as an adaptation to global warming and urban planners may leverage them to provide more cooling benefits if trees are primarily planted for this purpose.
A Reappraisal of the40Ar/38ArDating Technique via Irradiation withγ‐Rays
Authors: Hopp Jens , Vogt Manfred , Schwarz Winfried H. , Trieloff Mario
Published: March 2023

In a reconnaissance study, we investigated the potential of γ‐ray induced production of38ArKfrom39K for geochronological applications. For this purpose, various age monitors commonly in use for the established40Ar/39Ar‐method were co‐irradiated for 60 h at 17.6 MeV maximum energy in the ELBE facility, Dresden‐Rossendorf, Germany. Because the available energy was low, total production of38ArKwas depressed, leading to lowJ38‐values of (2.1–4.1) × 10‐6and hence resulted in only minor38Ar excess when compared with atmospheric38Ar/36Ar ratios. In spite of these restrictions, ages of younger monitors could be reproduced within error, whereas older age reference materials showed discrepancies due to the low production rate. We observed Ca‐derived contributions on36Ar in analysed CaF2reference materials, and calculated a limit for Ca‐interference on38ArCaof (38Ar/36Ar)Ca = 0.07 ± 0.03 (1s). In addition, we investigated a potential recoil redistribution of38Ar by stepwise heating experiments, but could not quantify this further because of concurring processes. More work at higher photon energies is necessary to resolve other open issues, in particular the potential of utilising40Ar/37Ar ratios for age determination and the possibility of42Ar production from44Ca, which would allow correction for Ca‐interference reactions on other Ar isotopes. This would be a pre‐requisite for dating extra‐terrestrial rocks.
Researchers support preprints and open access publishing, but with reservations: A questionnaire survey of MBSJ members
Authors: Ide Kazuki , Nakayama Jun‐ichi
Published: March 2023

Since the 1990s, journals have become increasingly online and open access. In fact, about 50% of articles published in 2021 were open access. The use of preprints (i.e., non‐peer‐reviewed articles) has also increased. However, there is limited awareness of these concepts among academics. Therefore, we conducted a questionnaire‐based survey among members of the Molecular Biology Society of Japan. The survey was conducted between September 2022 and October 2022, with 633 respondents, 500 of whom (79.0%) were faculty members. In total, 478 (76.6%) respondents had published articles as open access, and 571 (91.5%) wanted to publish their articles in open access. Although 540 (86.5%) respondents knew about preprints, only 183 (33.9%) had posted preprints before. In the open‐ended section of the questionnaire survey, several comments were made about the cost burdens associated with open access and the difficulty of how academic preprints are handled. Although open access is widespread, and recognition of preprints is increasing, some issues remain that need to be addressed. Academic and institutional support, and transformative agreement may help reduce the cost burden. Guidelines for handling preprints in academia are also important for responding to changes in the research environment.
An expert consensus to define how higher standards of equitable care for von Willebrand disease can be achieved in the UK and Republic of Ireland
Authors: Laffan Mike , Benson Gary , Farrelly Cathy , Gomez Keith , Jones April , Maclean Rhona , O'Donnell James , Lavin Michelle
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Von Willebrand Disease (VWD) is the most common inherited bleeding disorder. However, recognition of the disease by both the public and healthcare professionals lags behind that of other bleeding disorders, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment for patients. Updated national guidelines are needed to highlight an appropriate pathway for managing VWD patients in a timelier manner.

Aim

To identify ways in which care for VWD can be achieved on a more equitable basis.

Methods

Using a modified Delphi approach, a panel of VWD experts developed 29 statements across five key themes. These were used to form an online survey that was distributed to healthcare professionals involved in VWD care across the UK and Republic of Ireland (ROI). Stopping criteria comprised 50 responses received, a 3‐month window for response (February—April 2022) and 90% of statements passing consensus threshold. Threshold for consensus for each statement was agreed at 75%.

Results

A total of 66 responses were analysed with 29/29 statements achieving consensus of which 27 attained ≥90% agreement. From the high degree of consensus, eight recommendations were derived regarding how detection and management of VWD can be improved to provide equity of care between men and women.

Conclusion

Implementation of these eight recommendations across the VWD pathway has the potential to raise the standard of care for patients in the UK and ROI by reducing delays to diagnosis and treatment initiation.
Process design for the production of peptides from whey protein isolate with targeted antimicrobial functionality
Authors: Innocente Nadia , Calligaris Sonia , Di Filippo Giulia , Melchior Sofia , Marino Marilena , Nicoli Maria Cristina
Published: March 2023

The antimicrobial potential of peptides from whey proteins has been widely demonstrated. However, it is fundamental to design the best processing conditions able to form peptides with targeted antimicrobial functionalities. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between process parameters (i.e. enzyme and hydrolysis time) and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica. The in vitro hydrolysis was performed with Alcalase 2.4 and Protamex for 30–480 min reaching a hydrolysis degree higher than 90% after 120 min. As hydrolysis time increased peptide molecular weight decreased, and a different molecular weight profile was observed depending on the enzyme. Alcalase 2.4 was more prone to form peptides with molecular weight <0.4 kDa (80%) compared to Protamex (61%) after 480 min. The antimicrobial activity increased as the peptide molecular weight in the mixture decreased. Alcalase‐produced more active peptides against Salmonella regardless of the hydrolysis time. After 30 min, Protamex was more effective against Staph. aureus reducing its viability by 38.61% compared with Alcalase (18.94%). The same trend was maintained at 240 min. A strong linear correlation between the prevalence of peptides having MW < 0.4 kDa and the percentage of inhibition of each target pathogen was found. Results evidence the crucial role of process design to obtain peptides with targeted antimicrobial functionality, which could be potentially exploited to produce new functional ingredients. The latter may open new possibilities in the preservation of foods where the growth of alternative microorganisms could reduce the shelf‐life.
A multiple parameters fusion model based on hydrogen sulfide for accurately evaluating the freshness of lamb meat
Authors: Li Liang , Li Cheng , Zhang Dequan , Chen Li , Li Shaobo , Wang Wei , Zheng Xiaochun
Published: March 2023

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as an important freshness indicator of meat, can effectively reflect the degree of spoilage. However, establishing a multiple parameters fusion model with temperature correction to fit the relationship between the H2S concentration and other freshness indicators is still a challenge. In this study, the M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle (LTL) of lamb was stored in air packaging at 0 °C, 4 °C, 8 °C, 12 °C and 25 °C, respectively, to monitor the changes of gaseous H2S and other fresh indicators. The correlation analysis indicates that H2S concentration is highly consistent with lamb meat freshness. During the analysis, the well‐fitted Stirling models show high statistical relationships between H2S and total viable count (TVC)/total volatile base nitrogen (TVB‐N) values with the determination coefficients (R2) all exceeding 0.9000. Subsequently, the fusion freshness prediction models with the temperature corrections were successfully established by fusing the exponential models into the Stirling models. As verified, the fusion freshness prediction models based on H2S concentration can offer accurate predictions of the TVC and TVB‐N values of lamb meat at different temperatures with an R2 of 0.9352 and 0.8627, respectively. The proposed models might be used to accurately forecast and evaluate the freshness of meat in the process of storage.
Higher accuracy of surgical over core needle biopsy for the diagnosis of lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Pizzi Marco , Sbaraglia Marta , Dal Santo Luca , De Bartolo Debora , Santoro Luisa , Scarmozzino Federico , Mussolin Lara , Pillon Marta , Piazza Francesco , Trentin Livio , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The diagnosis of lymphoproliferative disorders (LPDs) is based on histological evaluation of representative tissue samples. Despite surgical excision biopsies (SEBs) are reference procedures for such diagnoses, lymph node core needle biopsies (LNCBs) are increasingly performed. The diagnostic yield of LNCB is, however, debated and few studies have compared the reproducibility of LNCB and SEB findings.

Methods

To address the diagnostic value of LNCB and SEB, the present study considered a retrospective series of 43 paired LNCB/SEB samples. After histological revision, concordance rates between matched LNCB/SEB samples were evaluated, assuming SEB as gold standard procedure. The actionability of LNCB and SEB‐based diagnoses (i.e., relevance for planning further medical interventions) was also assessed.

Results

Overall, LNCB provided actionable diagnoses in 39/43 (90.7%) cases, but a consistent subset of them (7/39 [17.9%]) turned out to be wrong at SEB. The cumulative diagnostic inaccuracy of LNCB (i.e., inadequate samples plus wrong diagnoses) was 25.6% and the mean diagnostic delay in such cases was 54.2 days.

Conclusions

Although limited by selection biases due to its retrospective nature, this study highlights the intrinsic limitations of LNCB for the diagnosis of LPDs. SEB remains the gold standard procedure and should be performed in all suitable cases.
Pneumococcal bacteraemia in adults over a 10‐year period (2011–2020): a clinical and serotype analysis
Authors: Colaco Clinton M. G. , O'Sullivan Matthew , Zhang Hayden , Huynh Danica , Sintchenko Vitali , Oftadeh Shahin , Gilbert Gwendolyn L. , Dotel Ravindra
Published: March 2023

Background

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a human nasopharyngeal tract coloniser responsible for invasive pneumococcal disease, which is largely vaccine preventable. Vaccination is recommended from birth for all, and through adulthood for those with risk conditions.

Aims

To describe the clinical and serotype analysis of pneumococcus bacteraemia over a 10‐year period.

Methods

A 10‐year (February 2011–December 2020) retrospective review was performed on all adult (age ≥18 years) pneumococcus bacteraemia presenting to the four public hospitals in Western Sydney, Australia. Comorbidities and risk factors were recorded.

Results

Three hundred unique episodes of S. pneumoniae bloodstream infection (SPBI) were identified during the study period. The median age for SPBI was 63 years with 31.7% aged 70 years or older. A 94.7% had one or more risks factors for SPBI. Pneumonia was reported in 80% of all SPBI, whereas meningitis was reported in 6% and infective endocarditis in <1%. Asplenia was noted in 2.4%. Seven‐ and 30‐day mortality was 6.6% and 11.9%, with a higher 30‐day mortality in those aged ≥70 years (24.4%). The serotype distribution showed 7‐valent conjugate vaccine covered 11.0% of all isolates, whereas 13‐valent conjugate vaccine (13vPCV) and a 23‐valent polysaccharide vaccine (23vPPV) covered 41.7% and 69.0% respectively. Immunisation details were available for 110 individuals, of whom, only 7.3% had received pneumococcal vaccination.

Conclusions

Most patients with pneumococcal bacteraemia had age‐ or comorbidity‐related risk factors but were not vaccinated. Two‐thirds of cases occurred in people aged <70 years. 13vPCV and 23vPPV covered 41.7% and 69.0% of bacteraemic isolates.
The academic stress and subjective well‐being of graduate nursing students: The mediating role of resilience
Authors: Ma Chunhua
Published: March 2023

Aim

To investigate the levels of subjective well‐being in graduate nursing students, explore the impact of academic stress and resilience on subjective well‐being, and examine the mediation effect of resilience on the relationship between academic stress and subjective well‐being among graduate nursing students.

Background

Few studies explore the impact of academic stress and resilience on subjective well‐being among graduate nursing students. Understanding the status of subjective well‐being and associated factors in graduate nursing students will enable the development of tailored interventions to improve their well‐being and academic achievements during graduation education.

Design

A cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Graduate nursing students were recruited by social media between April 2021 and October 2021, in China. Subjective well‐being was measured using the General Well‐Being Schedule, resilience by the Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale, and academic stress through the Questionnaire of Assessing Academic Stress for graduate nursing students. Structural equation modelling was used to test the relationship among academic stress, resilience and subjective well‐being.

Findings

The mean score of subjective well‐being for graduate nursing students was 76.37. The proposed model revealed a satisfied fit with the data. Academic stress and resilience were significantly related to subjective well‐being in graduate nursing students. Resilience partially mediated the relationship between academic stress and subjective well‐being, and the mediation effect accounted for 20.9% of the total effect of academic stress on the subjective well‐being.

Conclusion

Academic stress and resilience affected subjective well‐being in graduate nursing students, while resilience partially mediated the relationship between academic stress and the subjective well‐being.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not involve patients, service users, caregivers or members of the public.
Lessons from professional nursing associations' policy advocacy responses to the COVID‐19 pandemic: An interpretive description
Authors: Chiu Patrick , Thorne Sally , Schick‐Makaroff Kara , Cummings Greta G.
Published: March 2023

Background

Professional nursing associations across jurisdictions engaged in significant policy advocacy during the COVID‐19 pandemic to support nurses, the public and health systems. While professional nursing associations have a long history of engaging in policy advocacy, scholars have rarely critically examined this important function.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was twofold: (a) to examine how professional nursing associations engage in the process of policy advocacy and (b) to develop knowledge specific to policy advocacy in the context of a global pandemic.

Methods

This study was conducted using interpretive description. A total of eight individuals from four professional nursing associations (two local, one national and one international) participated. Data sources included semi‐structured interviews conducted between October 2021 and December 2021 and internal and external documents produced by organizations. Data collection and analysis occurred concurrently. Within‐case analysis was conducted prior to cross‐case comparisons.

Findings

Six key themes were developed to illustrate the lessons learned from these organizations including their organization's role in supporting a wide audience (professional nursing associations as a compass); the scope of their policy priorities (bridging the gaps between issues and solutions), the breadth of their advocacy strategies (top down, bottom up and everything in between), the factors influencing their decision‐making (looking in and looking out), their evaluation practices (focus on contribution, not attribution) and the importance of capitalizing on windows of opportunity.

Conclusions

This study provides insight into the nature of policy advocacy carried out by professional nursing associations.

Impact

The findings suggest the need for those leading this important function to think critically about their role in supporting a wide range of audiences, the breadth and depth of their policy priorities and advocacy strategies, the factors that influence their decision‐making, and the ways in which their policy advocacy work can be evaluated to move towards greater influence and impact.
Newly graduated nurses use and further development of assessment skills—An in‐depth qualitative study
Authors: Byermoen Kirsten Røland , Brembo Espen Andreas , Egilsdottir H. Ösp , Eide Tom , Heyn Lena Günterberg , Moen Anne , Eide Hilde
Published: March 2023

Aims

To explore in‐depth nurses' use and further development of assessment skills in different nursing contexts in the first 2 years after graduation, and factors that influenced their use and development of assessment skills.

Design

The study had explorative qualitative design.

Methods

Eight nurses who previously had been interviewed about their learning of physical assessment skills in clinical rotation as students participated in this follow‐up study. Individual in‐depth interviews were conducted, where the nurses spoke freely about their experiences after graduation.

Results

Four prominent features influencing the nurses' use and development of assessment skills were identified: (a) assessment approaches and readiness for practice, (b) the primacy of communication, (c) recognition related to performing assessments, and (d) the influence of organizational factors on their assessment applications.

Conclusion

Newly graduated nurses' use of assessment skills is an important part of providing holistic care. This study suggest that assessment skills is not only an assessment task but is central in relationship building and in supporting the professional development of nursing competence.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution, due to study design.
Bioconversion of poultry manure and vegetable waste mixes by Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)
Authors: Parry Nina Jennifer , Weldon Christopher William
Published: March 2023

Development time, survival and final nutrient content of Hermetia illucens L. larvae depends on the substrates in which they develop. Mixing different waste types together can increase the performance and survival of the larvae, as well as their waste reduction. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of different ratios of mixed fruit and vegetable waste with poultry manure on larval development time, size, biomass production, survival, bioconversion and waste reduction. Freshly hatched neonates (90 mg; approx. 6000 individuals) were placed on 12 kg of a mixture of fruit and vegetable waste and fresh, unprocessed poultry manure and held at 28 ± 0.5°C. Inclusion of fruit and vegetable waste varied from 0% to 100% in 10% increments. Initial temperature of the substrate was also measured. The individual mass of larvae increased significantly as more fruit and vegetable waste was included, from less than 81.3 ± 6.6 mg on poultry manure only to an average size of 211.6 ± 6.0 mg at 100% fruit and vegetable waste. After approximately 60% inclusion of fruit and vegetable waste the performance and survival of the larvae increased significantly while development time was reduced. A combination of high fruit and vegetable waste and low initial temperatures resulted in lower development time overall. The mixing of wastes can be applied in industry to further the goals of waste reduction and biomass production while incorporating low‐quality wastes like poultry manure.
Evaluating control methods for red imported fire ant and their effects on hibiscus mealybug in citrus
Authors: Middleton Eric G. , King Joshua R. , Johnson Abigail , Diepenbrock Lauren M.
Published: March 2023

The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) may disrupt biological control of hibiscus mealybug (Nipaecoccus viridis) in Florida citrus. Controlling S. invicta may therefore be necessary for effective management of hibiscus mealybug. We evaluated four different methods to control S. invicta (ground applications of insecticide, two different insecticidal ant baits and spot‐treating ant colonies with hot water) to determine how these different treatments affected ants tending to hibiscus mealybug colonies, natural enemy abundance within hibiscus mealybug colonies and hibiscus mealybug colony abundance. While all treatments reduced the number of S. invicta colonies in treated areas compared to an untreated control, only ground applications of insecticide and the two ant baits significantly reduced the abundance of S. invicta found tending hibiscus mealybug colonies. Additionally, significantly more Brachymyrmex obscurior ants were found tending mealybug colonies in plots treated with either of the two ant baits. There was no significant effect of treatment on the abundance of natural enemies in hibiscus mealybug colonies, but significantly fewer natural enemies were found in mealybug colonies tended by S. invicta, and significantly more natural enemies were found in mealybug colonies tended by B. obscurior. Ground applications of insecticide, the abamectin ant bait Clinch and hot water treatments all reduced the overall number of hibiscus mealybug colonies compared with control areas, while the S‐methoprene ant bait Extinguish did not. Our results suggest that reducing the number of S. invicta tending hibiscus mealybug colonies can lead to higher natural enemy abundance and lower hibiscus mealybug abundance. However, methods used to control S. invicta may have different impacts on ant species like B. obscurior, leading to different outcomes with natural enemies.
Preference of black soldier fly larvae for feed substrate previously colonised by conspecific larvae
Authors: Kortsmit Yvonne , Van Loon Joop J. A. , Dicke Marcel
Published: March 2023

The black soldier fly Hermetia illucens Linnaeus (Diptera: Stratiomyidae; BSF) is gaining interest as an alternative protein ingredient for livestock feed. Larval aggregation behaviour occurs commonly in larvae of various dipteran species. However, the cues initiating aggregation behaviour and its occurrence in subsequent larval instars are still unknown in BSF larvae. Here, we focus on understanding the attraction of larvae to cues left behind in the substrate by conspecific larvae. We developed a dual‐choice test in the dark and examined the preference behaviour of different instars with the use of video recordings. Larval choices were identified based on first substrate contact, cumulative number of substrate contacts, entry of the substrate and number of larvae present in a substrate over time. Our results demonstrate that BSF larvae discriminated between similar substrates with or without cues released by conspecifics, with a strong preference for previously colonised substrates. Our results also showed a difference in behaviour between head‐capsule classes. Substrate contacts occurred more frequently in larvae from a lower head‐capsule class and the number of larvae present in a substrate over time differed between the head‐capsule classes 0.71–0.80 mm and 0.91–1.00 mm. Demonstrating arrestment in response to chemical cues from conspecifics is the first step of understanding aggregation behaviour of BSF larvae and offers opportunities to identify the chemical cues involved.
Portfolio Selection under Systemic Risk
Authors: LIN WEIDONG , OLMO JOSE , TAAMOUTI ABDERRAHIM
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a modified Sharpe ratio to construct optimal portfolios under systemic events. The portfolio allocation problem is solved analytically under the absence of short‐selling restrictions and numerically when short‐selling restrictions are imposed. This approach is made operational by embedding it in a multivariate dynamic setting using dynamic conditional correlation and copula models. We evaluate the out‐of‐sample performance of our portfolio empirically over the period 2007 to 2020 using ex post final wealth paths and systemic risk metrics against mean–variance, equally weighted, and global minimum variance portfolios. Our portfolio outperforms all competitors under market distress and remains competitive in noncrisis periods.
Information design, externalities, and government interventions
Authors: Li Cheng , Xiao Yancheng
Published: March 2023

We consider a model of Bayesian persuasion with spillovers. A sender provides information to persuade a receiver to take an action with external effects. We consider how government interventions, including corrective subsidy and tax, affect social welfare. In addition to internalizing externalities, government interventions affect social welfare through an informational channel. Subsidies to the sender's preferred action incentivize the sender to reveal less information, but taxes on the sender's preferred action incentivize the sender to reveal more information. Because of such an informational effect, the optimal subsidy and tax may be different from the size of the externalities. In some cases, social welfare is maximized with no government intervention.
The effects of bifrontal anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on sleepiness and vigilance in partially sleep‐deprived subjects: A multidimensional study
Authors: Alfonsi Valentina , D'Atri Aurora , Scarpelli Serena , Gorgoni Maurizio , Giacinti Francesco , Annarumma Ludovica , Salfi Federico , Amicucci Giulia , Corigliano Domenico , De Gennaro Luigi
Published: March 2023

In recent years, transcranial electrical stimulation techniques have demonstrated their ability to modulate our levels of sleepiness and vigilance. However, the outcomes differ among the specific aspects considered (physiological, behavioural or subjective). This study aimed to observe the effects of bifrontal anodal transcranial direct current stimulation. Specifically, we tested the ability of this stimulation protocol to reduce sleepiness and increase vigilance in partially sleep‐deprived healthy participants. Twenty‐three subjects underwent a within‐subject sham‐controlled stimulation protocol. We compared sleepiness and vigilance levels before and after the two stimulation conditions (active versus sham) by using behavioural (reaction‐time task), subjective (self‐report scales) and physiological (sleep‐onset latency and electroencephalogram power [n = 20] during the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test) measures. We showed the efficacy of the active stimulation in reducing physiological sleepiness and preventing vigilance drop compared with the sham stimulation. Consistently, we observed a reduction of perceived sleepiness following the active stimulation for both self‐report scales. However, the stimulation effect on subjective measures was not statistically significant probably due to the underpowered sample size for these measures, and to the possible influence of motivational and environmental factors. Our findings confirm the ability of this technique to influence vigilance and sleepiness, pointing out the potential for new treatment developments based on transcranial electrical stimulation.
Impact of hepatitis C treatment status on risk of Parkinson's disease and secondary parkinsonism in the era of direct‐acting antivirals
Authors: Selim Ranya , Gordon Stuart C. , Zhou Yueren , Zhang Talan , Lu Mei , Daida Yihe G. , Boscarino Joseph A. , Schmidt Mark A. , Trudeau Sheri , Rupp Loralee B. , Gonzalez Humberto C.
Published: March 2023

Research suggests a possible link between chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and the development of Parkinson's Disease (PD) and secondary Parkinsonism (PKM). We investigated the impact of antiviral treatment status (untreated, interferon [IFN] treated, direct‐acting antiviral [DAA] treated) and outcome (treatment failure [TF] or sustained virological response [SVR]) on risk of PD/PKM among patients with HCV. Using data from the Chronic Hepatitis Cohort Study (CHeCS), we applied a discrete time‐to‐event approach with PD/PKM as the outcome. We performed univariate followed by a multivariable modelling that used time‐varying covariates, propensity scores to adjust for potential treatment selection bias and death as a competing risk. Among 17,199 confirmed HCV patients, we observed 54 incident cases of PD/PKM during a mean follow‐up period of 17 years; 3753 patients died during follow‐up. There was no significant association between treatment status/outcome and risk of PD/PKM. Type 2 diabetes tripled risk (hazard ratio [HR] 3.05; 95% CI 1.75–5.32; p < .0001) and presence of cirrhosis doubled risk of PD/PKM (HR 2.13, 95% CI 1.31–3.47). BMI >30 was associated with roughly 50% lower risk of PD/PKM than BMI <25 (HR 0.43; 0.22–0.84; p = .0138). After adjustment for treatment selection bias, we did not observe a significant association between HCV patients' antiviral treatment status/outcome on risk of PD/PKM. Several clinical risk factors—diabetes, cirrhosis and BMI—were associated with PD/PKM.