bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sickness absence trajectories among young and early midlife employees with psychological distress: the contributions of social and health-related factors in a longitudinal register linkage study
Authors: Salmela Jatta , Heinonen Noora Amanda , Knop Jade , Virtanen Marianna , Fagerlund Pi , Kouvonen Anne , Lallukka Tea 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Psychological distress has been associated with sickness absence (SA), but less is known about whether there are distinct patterns in the development of SA among people with psychological distress. We examined trajectories of short- and long-term SA among employees with psychological distress and how social and health-related factors are associated with them.

Methods
We used the employer’s register data on all-cause short- (≤ 10 working days) and long-term (> 10 working days) SA with a two-year follow-up. We prospectively linked the Helsinki Health Study survey data on 19–39-year-old employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland, in 2017, to the SA data. We included 1060 participants (81% women) who reported experiencing psychological distress, measured by the emotional wellbeing scale of RAND-36. Survey responses of age; gender; education; marital status; social support, procedural and interactional organisational justice, and bullying at work; physical activity; diet; tobacco and alcohol use; prior SA; and the level of psychological distress were included as exposures. Group-based trajectory modelling and multinomial logistic regression were used for the analyses.

Results
We identified four short-term SA trajectories: ‘low’ (n = 379, 36% of participants), ‘descending’ (n = 212, 20%), ‘intermediate’ (n = 312, 29%), and ‘high’ (n = 157, 15%); and two long-term SA trajectories: ‘low’ (n = 973, 92%) and ‘high’ (n = 87, 8%). A higher education, fewer prior SA, and lower levels of psychological distress were associated with the ‘low’ short- and long-term SA trajectories.

Conclusion
SA trajectories differ among employees with psychological distress. Early intervention and support are needed among employees with mental health symptoms to prevent future SA.
Opioidverordnungen bei Versicherten ohne Krebserkrankung in Deutschland – Daten der BARMER
Authors: Lappe Veronika , Grandt Daniel , Marschall Ursula , Petzke Frank , Häuser Winfried , Schubert Ingrid 
Published: December 2024

Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Der Stellenwert der Opioide bei nichttumorbedingten Schmerzen wird kontrovers diskutiert. Aus Deutschland fehlen aktuelle Daten zur Opioidverordnung bei nichttumorbedingtem Schmerz.

Ziel der Arbeit
Daten zur Prävalenz von kurz- und langfristigen Opioidverordnungen, verschriebenen Wirkstoffen, Komedikation, verschreibenden Fachgruppen und demografischen und klinischen Charakteristika der Patienten.

Material und Methoden
Retrospektive Analyse von Abrechnungsdaten erwachsener BARMER-Versicherter ohne Hinweis auf einen bösartigen Tumor für das Jahr 2021 (n = 6.771.075) sowie Versicherter mit Neubeginn einer Opioidtherapie in 2019 (n = 142.598).

Ergebnisse
5,7 % der Versicherten ohne Krebsdiagnose erhielten in 2021 mindestens eine Opioidverordnung, 1,9 % eine Langzeittherapie. Tilidin und Tramadol waren die am häufigsten verordneten Opioide in Kurz- und Langzeittherapie. Frauen erhielten häufiger Opioide als Männer. Die Verordnungshäufigkeit stieg mit dem Alter deutlich an. In 2021 erhielten 22,5 % der Versicherten mit Langzeitopioidtherapie eine Komedikation mit Pregabalin und/oder Gabapentin, 37,5 % mit einem Antidepressivum und 58,1 % mit Metamizol und/oder nichtsteroidale Antirheumatika (NSAR). Erstverordnungen erfolgten zu 59,5 % durch Hausärzte. Im ersten Therapiejahr waren bei Personen mit Langzeitopioidtherapie im Mittel 2,1 Praxen an der Schmerzmittelverordnung beteiligt, 13 verschiedene chronische Krankheiten wurden dokumentiert.

Diskussion
Die Opioidtherapie nichttumorbedingter Schmerzen findet überwiegend im hausärztlichen Bereich bei älteren, multimorbiden Patienten statt. Die Indikationsstellung erfordert eine gemeinsame Entscheidungsfindung mit Patientinnen und Patienten und gegebenenfalls ihren Angehörigen sowie die Überprüfung möglicher Arzneimittelinteraktionen.

Graphic abstract
Speckle-tracking echocardiography of left and right ventricle and acute cellular rejection in orthotropic heart transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xourgia Eleni , Brignoli Kristina , Linder Olivier , Neagoe Alexandra-Maria , Capek Lukas , Bruno Jolie , Strickler Eva , Bakula Adam , Pavlicek-Bahlo Maryam , Fürholz Monika , Muster Christian , Malagutti Patrizia , Martinelli Michele , Hunziker Lukas , Schnegg Bruno 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAfter a cardiac transplantation, the steering of immunosuppression requires an active search for acute cellular rejection (ACR). Surveillance with endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is the gold standard. Given the costs and potential complications, there is growing interest in the use of non-invasive screening methods. Thus, we have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the role of speckle-tracking echocardiography as a screening method for ACR. We searched PubMed (CENTRAL) and gray literature for studies presenting data on speckle tracking echocardiography in heart-transplant patients experiencing acute cellular rejection. The primary outcomes of the meta-analysis were left and right ventricular global longitudinal strain. We used random effects models for all our calculations. We pre-registered our meta-analysis with PROSPERO (CRD42024508654). By incorporating data from over 2000 biopsies included in 18 studies, we found that both left (LVGLS, MD -1.96, 95% CI -2.85 to -1.07, p < 0.0001), and right (RVGLS, MD -2.90, 95% CI -4.03 to -1.76, p < 0.00001) ventricular longitudinal strain were lower among patients without ACR. The change of LVGLS from baseline over time was also greater among patients experiencing ACR (MD -2.43, 95% CI -4.82 to -0.05, p = 0.045). Current data suggest that myocardial strain measured by speckle tracking echocardiography is affected in ACR and could potentially be used for early rejection detection as a rule-out strategy, leading to reduction of routine EMB in heart transplant follow-up.
Effectiveness and Characteristics of Work Participation Interventions for Adults with Musculoskeletal Upper Limb Conditions: A Systematic Review
Authors: Newington Lisa , Ceh Daniel , Sandford Fiona , Parsons Vaughan , Madan Ira 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Purpose
To systematically identify and evaluate interventions to improve work participation for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal conditions, and explore contextual factors and mechanisms that suggest how the intervention is effective, for whom, and in what setting.

Methods
The review protocol was pre-registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023433216). Eligible studies met the following criteria. Population adults (aged ≥ 18 years), with musculoskeletal upper limb conditions including traumatic and non-traumatic presentations. Intervention strategies aimed at enhancing work participation. Outcomes measures including return to work, increased work duties or hours, and work functioning. Study design randomised and non-randomised experimental studies, mixed methods, qualitative studies, and case series. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and completed quality appraisal. Interventions were described using TIDieR and the data presented as a narrative synthesis.

Results
Twenty-two studies were included. Interventions were categorised into three groups: multimodal or multidisciplinary (n = 13), ergonomic (n = 4), and exercise (n = 5). Eight interventions were primarily delivered in the workplace and 14 in healthcare settings. Four outcome domains were reported: return to work (n = 18), self-reported work function (n = 4), work productivity (n = 5), and work-related costs (n = 2). Only exercise interventions showed consistent statistically significant benefits. Heterogeneity in outcomes prevented formal meta-analysis. Only five studies were rated as high quality.

Conclusions
There is insufficient evidence to recommend specific work participation interventions for adults with upper limb musculoskeletal systems. No studies explored the impact of Fit Notes or other formal work guidance documentation.
Guidelines for Caring for Incapacitated Teachers and Students at Former Jesuit Colleges in Europe
Authors: Kochanowicz Jerzy , Topij-Stempińska Beata , Paal Piret 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe aim of this article is to explore the regulations governing the treatment of incapacitated people in former Jesuit colleges in Europe, focusing on the academic staff and students residing in these institutions. This treatment was strongly influenced by the spirituality of Ignatius of Loyola, who perceived disease in dual terms: as an evil to be combated through all available means and as a test of faith from God. Ignatius instructed college superiors to prioritize the care of the sick and appointed specific officers within the community, such as prefects of health, nurses, and pharmacists, while also formulating detailed rules for the care and treatment of the sick. Understanding these principles, which served as a vademecum for nursing practices at the time, provides insights into the daily life of former Jesuit colleges and can serve as inspiration for modern approaches to patient care, particularly emphasizing the importance of attending to their mental well-being.
Impact of vegetation type on the content and spectroscopic properties of soil organic matter in the subalpine zone of the Bieszczady Mountains (Eastern Carpathians)
Authors: Kramarczuk Patrycja , Musielok Łukasz , Stolarczyk Mateusz , Jelonkiewicz Łukasz , Nikorych Volodymyr A. , Szymański Wojciech 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Aims
This study aimed to define how vegetation affects the content and chemistry of soil organic matter (SOM) in topsoil (O and A) horizons under blueberry shrubs (Vaccinietum myrtilli) and tall-grass vegetation in the subalpine zone of the Bieszczady Mountains (Eastern Carpathians, SE Poland).

Methods
Topsoil samples (O and A horizons) were collected from ten sites covered with Vaccinium myrtillus L. and at ten sites covered with tall-grass vegetation. Above- and belowground parts of vegetation from each vegetation type were sampled. Total carbon (TC) and nitrogen (TN) content in soil and vegetation samples were determined using an elemental analyzer. SOM chemical properties were determined via Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The mineral composition of the A horizons was determined via X-ray diffractometry (XRD).

Results
V. myrtillus L. showed significantly higher TC content and C/N ratio in its aboveground parts compared to tall-grass vegetation, though TN content was significantly lower. FTIR-ATR spectra showed more intense absorption bands for V. myrtillus L. The soil mineral composition was similar across vegetation types. Soils under blueberry shrubs showed significantly higher mean content of organic carbon and TN in the O horizon compared to tall-grass vegetation, with no significant differences in the A horizon.

Conclusions
Topsoil horizons under blueberry shrubs show higher soil organic carbon (SOC) content and C/N ratios than those under tall-grasses. Our results suggest that shrubification may affect carbon concentration in the soil; however, the lack of bulk density measurements prevents the quantification of SOM content and overall carbon sequestration, necessitating further studies.
Wear and Corrosion of HVAF and HVOF-Sprayed WC-CoCr Coatings on Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Owoseni Tunji Adetayo , Gupta Mohit , Joshi Shrikant V. , Ingmar Mare , Varis Tommi 
Published: December 2024

AbstractLight alloys are being increasingly investigated as alternatives to ferrous-based engineering components, based on weight considerations. However, in-service applications of such light alloy components often require a surface modification step to enhance their wear and corrosion responses for improved functionality. Thermally sprayed cermet coatings offer an enhanced resistance to wear and corrosion. This work investigates WC-CoCr coatings deposited using two different feedstocks comprising fine and coarse powder size distributions on aluminum alloy and steel substrates using high-velocity air-fuel (HVAF) and high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) spray techniques. The WC-CoCr coatings were HVAF sprayed at various parameters to investigate the relationship between the processing conditions, microstructure, and performance. Microindentation, dry sliding wear, dry sand abrasion, cavitation erosion, and corrosion tests were conducted to assess the performance of the coatings. Despite the qualitative similarities in the microstructures of the coatings, the measured microindentation hardness values were observed to vary, and coatings deposited with higher particle impact velocities showed the highest microhardness between 1400 and 1600 HV0.3. For the three categories of wear investigated, the HVAF coatings showed better resistance than the HVOF coating investigated in this study. The estimated average specific wear rate (SWR) due to sliding wear of the HVOF coating was ~ 16.7 ± 4.0 × 10−8 mm3/Nm compared to that of the most resistant HVAF coating, which exhibited a SWR of ~ 1.7 ± 0.6 × 10−8 mm3/Nm. The cumulative mass loss rate due to the abrasive wear on the HVOF coating reached ~ 1.11 mg/min compared to ~ 0.76 mg/min of the most abrasion-resistant HVAF coating. All coatings showed similar corrosion resistances under the investigated conditions. The combination of wear and corrosion performance of the respective coatings could provide insight into the coating selection for intended applications.
First case report of disseminated intravascular coagulopathy associated with severe micronutrient deficiency and protein malnutrition following sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Saliba Maram , Abdulrazzaq Sama , Dweik Manar 
Published: December 2024

AbstractDisseminated Intravascular Coagulopathy (DIC) is a serious acquired hematological syndrome with intravascular activation of the coagulation process in which both microvascular thrombosis and life-threatening bleeding can occur depending on the balance between utilization of platelets, inhibitors, and coagulation factors. (DIC) can manifest in either an acute or chronic form and almost always arises as a secondary complication of an underlying disease, trauma, or clinical condition. Various causes identified with infection and cancer being on the top of the list, though, idiopathic cases were also reported. Bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) is one of the treatment lines for obesity with a low mortality rate. However, its associated with certain medical and /or hematological complications secondary to nutritional deficiencies such as protein/albumin malnutrition, low iron, copper, and B 12 deficiencies, causing anemia, and pancytopenia. DIC in post gastric bypass surgery has been previously reported. However, its occurrence after Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) remains unclear and has not been previously reported.
Insights of the trypsin inhibitory activity and ultrasound effect of ovomucoid based on molecular docking and spectroscopic
Authors: Cui Rui , Ding Lixian , Ji Shengnan , Fu Xing , Cai Zhaoxia , Huang Xi 
Published: December 2024

AbstractOvomucoid (OVM) is the most abundant trypsin inhibitor in egg white, considered as one of the anti-nutritional factors in egg processing. In this study, the molecular mechanism of the interaction between OVM and trypsin was explored. Besides, the effect of food processing methods on the activity of OVM and structural change of OVM was analyzed. The results showed that OVM mainly inhibited trypsin activity through hydrogen bonding in its first domain and it was a non-competitive inhibitor. Surprisingly, ultrasound treatment could reduce trypsin inhibitory activity of OVM to 30%. The hydrolytic resistance to digestive enzymes and the thermal stability of the OVM was also significantly reduced. The spectroscopic results indicated ultrasound treatment affected the trypsin inhibitory activity of OVM by reducing β-sheet content and increasing hydrophobicity. In conclusion, this study reveals the molecular mechanism by which OVM inhibits trypsin activity, and provides an ultrasound treatment method to effectively reduce this activity of OVM.
What we (don’t) know about parrot welfare: Finding welfare indicators through a systematic literature review
Authors: Piseddu Andrea , van Zeeland Yvonne RA , Rault Jean-Loup 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Parrots are popular companion animals but show prevalent and at times severe welfare issues. Nonetheless, there are no scientific tools available to assess parrot welfare. The aim of this systematic review was to identify valid and feasible outcome measures that could be used as welfare indicators for companion parrots. From 1,848 peer-reviewed studies retrieved, 98 met our inclusion and exclusion criteria (e.g. experimental studies, captive parrots). For each outcome collected, validity was assessed based on the statistical significance reported by the authors, as other validity parameters were rarely provided for evaluation. Feasibility was assigned by considering the need for specific instruments, veterinary-level expertise or handling the parrot. A total of 1,512 outcomes were evaluated, of which 572 had a significant P-value and were considered feasible. These included changes in behaviour (e.g. activity level, social interactions, exploration), body measurements (e.g. body weight, plumage condition) and abnormal behaviours, amongst others. Many physical and physiological parameters were identified that either require experimental validation, or veterinary-level skills and expertise, limiting their potential use by parrot owners themselves. Moreover, a high risk of bias undermined the internal validity of these outcomes, while a strong taxonomic bias, a predominance of studies on parrots in laboratories, and an underrepresentation of companion parrots jeopardised their external validity. These results provide a promising starting point for validating a set of welfare indicators in parrots.
Animal source food consumption and anaemia among school adolescent girls in Silti District, Central Ethiopia: a public health perspective
Authors: Kedir Shemsu , Hassen Abate Kalkidan , Mohammed Bekri , Lemnuro Kemal , Kemal Abdurezak , Khelil Geda Sherif , Yassin Zeyne , Jemal Musa , Ademe Beyene Wondafrash 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Animal source foods (ASFs) are diverse and heterogeneous, including unprocessed red meat, processed meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, milk, cheese, and yoghurt. It is essential for preventing malnutrition and its consequences among vulnerable populations, including infants, young children, adolescents, women of reproductive age, and pregnant and lactating women. Understanding the intakes of ASF among adolescents and associated factors is critical for establishing priorities to promote its consumption and enhance growth and development during this period. Consequently, the purpose of the current study is to examine the current levels of not consuming ASF among school-aged adolescent girls and the relationship between anaemia and not consuming ASF. A facility-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 516 school adolescent girls in Silti District, Central Ethiopia, spanning from October 2 to 20, 2023. Data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 25 for further analysis. Adjusted odds ratios, along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals, were calculated to examine the association between not consuming ASF and anaemia status after adjusting for age, residence, menstrual status, and morbidity. Statistical significance was defined as a p-value less than 0.05 in the final model. In this study, the prevalence of not consuming any form of ASF was 51.1% (95 CI: 44.6%–53.2%) and the prevalence of anaemia was 29% (95% CI: 25.2, 33.3). Moreover, unlikely consumption of ASF was significantly associated with anaemia (AOR = 3.2, 95% CI:2, 5.1) after adjusting for age, place of residence, experience of morbidity symptoms and menstrual status. The current study found a significant prevalence of adolescent girls in the area not consuming ASF while attending school. Moreover, the prevalence of anaemia was moderate. Unlikely consumption of ASF was significantly associated with anaemia. Hence, enhancing ASF consumption is one of the key actions to fight against anaemia.
Atomic molecular dynamics simulation advances of de novo-designed proteins
Authors: Wang Moye , Ma Anqi , Wang Hongjiang , Lou Xiaotong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Proteins are vital biological macromolecules that execute biological functions and form the core of synthetic biological systems. The history of de novo protein has evolved from initial successes in subordinate structural design to more intricate protein creation, challenging the complexities of natural proteins. Recent strides in protein design have leveraged computational methods to craft proteins for functions beyond their natural capabilities. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations have emerged as a crucial tool for comprehending the structural and dynamic properties of de novo-designed proteins. In this study, we examined the pivotal role of MD simulations in elucidating the sampling methods, force field, water models, stability, and dynamics of de novo-designed proteins, highlighting their potential applications in diverse fields. The synergy between computational modeling and experimental validation continued to play a crucial role in the creation of novel proteins tailored for specific functions and applications.
Expanding access to sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) in the Ministry of Health Malaysia – a multiple HTA approach
Authors: Choo Coleen Siew Bee , Yong Yee Vern , Chandriah Haarathi , Ahmad Nur Sufiza 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Ministry of Health (MOH) Malaysia stakeholders seek primary care access to sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i). Addressing this required a complex decision, selecting among three SGLT2i for two different indications and two practice settings. The options include expanding the existing SGLT2i (empagliflozin) in the MOH Medicines Formulary to primary care and/or having dapagliflozin and/or luseogliflozin as alternatives. This study aimed to conduct a multiple health technology assessment (HTA) to determine the SGLT2i of choice for the MOH setting.

Methods
The clinical benefits of SGLT2i were assessed through a systematic literature review and affordability was assessed through the development of three budget impact analysis models simulating seventy scenarios. Each model varied by prescribing indications, restrictions, and SGLT2i involved (M1: glycemic control, HbA1c between 6.5 percent and 10 percent, empagliflozin–dapagliflozin–luseogliflozin; M2: cardiovascular benefits, HbA1c less than 10 percent, empagliflozin-dapagliflozin; M3: a composite of M1 and M2). The outcome of the HTA was presented to the MOH decision-makers.

Results
Although there was no significant difference in glycemic control between the SGLT2i, differences exist in cardiovascular benefits conferred. Despite having scenarios with lower net budget impact (NBI) in the M1, M2, and M3 models, decision-makers decided to expand empagliflozin use to primary care setting and add dapagliflozin for hospital-only setting for both indications [NBI of $4.38 mil] due to empagliflozin’s advantage in reducing risk for cardiovascular death and prior experience of its use in MOH.

Conclusions
The multiple HTA approach guided the complex decision-making process by providing a holistic understanding of the decision’s impact.