bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Cognitive-Behavioral and Exercise Intervention to Reduce Fear of Falling in Older Adults in Long-Term Care: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lenouvel Eric , Biedermann Andreas , Bruhin Lena , Peyneshki Iliya Petkov , Schweizer Claudia , Krebs Christine , Alpiger Patrick , Kloeppel Stefan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and exercise intervention (AGES) to reduce fear of falling (FoF) in older adults in long-term care (LTC) facilities.
Method
A single-arm, non-randomized pilot study was conducted in three LTC facilities with 19 participants (17 women, 2 men, mean age = 84 years). The intervention consisted of 8 weekly one-hour group sessions led by trained leaders, combining CBT discussions and exercises targeting FoF. Outcome measures included the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), the WHO-5 Well-Being Index, and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. Gait analysis was performed using a Lidar-based method, developed for this pilot study.
Results
The intervention did not significantly reduce FoF (FES-I: pre = 27.28, post = 25.67, p = 0.411) or improve well-being (WHO-5: p = 0.125). However, significant improvement in mobility was observed (TUG: pre = 14.68, post = 13.40, p = 0.032). Gait analysis showed marginal improvements in gait parameters. Implementation challenges included recruitment and leader engagement.
Discussion
The AGES intervention Pilot trial demonstrated feasibility in LTC settings and improved mobility among participants. The small sample size might have limited the detection of significant changes in FoF and well-being. Future studies should aim for larger sample sizes and address recruitment challenges to validate the intervention's effectiveness. Further refinement of gait analysis methods for participants using walking aids is necessary.
The Visual Pathway: A Valuable Biomarker of Disease Duration and Cognitive Function in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Zhao Yali , Yang Yuan , Liu Mao , Ba Li , Ding Fengfei , Wu Hongyu , Tang Jiahui , Gong Zhenxiang , Li Zehui , Zhang Jing , Zhang Min 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To investigate the relationship between visual pathway and disease duration and cognitive function in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Methods
31 ALS patients and 20 healthy controls were enrolled. Patients were categorized into the ALS-early and ALS-late groups according to disease duration. Edinburgh Cognitive and Behavioral ALS Screen (ECAS) was performed for all patients. Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness via optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) of the optic nerve (ON), optic tract (OT), and optic radiation (OR) via diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) were compared between three groups. Associations between OCT or DTI parameters and clinical parameters were assessed by correlation analysis for patients.
Results
RNFL thickness was increased in ALS-early (106.95 ± 10.52µm, P = 0.008) but not in ALS-late (102.67 ± 11.70µm, P = 0.510) compared to controls (98.23 ± 14.41µm). FA and MD of ON were similar between three groups. OT-FA was decreased in both ALS-early (0.4784 ± 0.0508, P < 0.001) and ALS-late (0.4785 ± 0.0572, P < 0.001) compared to controls (0.5304 ± 0.0496). OR-MD was higher in ALS-late than controls (0.9672[0.9417–1.0735] vs. 0.9241[0.8777–0.9810], P = 0.027). Executive domain of ECAS was negatively correlated with ON-FA (r=-0.326, P = 0.010) and positively correlated with ON-MD (r = 0.353, P = 0.005), OT-FA (r = 0.269, P = 0.034), and OR-FA (r = 0.291, P = 0.022).
Conclusions
Changes in the anterior and posterior visual pathway occurred in an earlier and later disease stage, respectively. DTI parameters of individual segments of the visual pathway were correlated with cognitive parameters, suggesting the mechanism of trans-synaptic degeneration in the cognitive dysfunction in ALS.
Sociodemographic and Work-Related Variables Affecting Achievement Motivation Among Professionally Active Nurses Under Study
Authors: Młynarska Katarzyna , Kamińska Magdalena Sylwia , Cybulska Anna Maria , Panczyk Mariusz , Kupcewicz Ewa , Grochans Elżbieta 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Achievement motivation is a particular category of an employee’s motives towards professional development, and is associated with positive emotions in challenging task-oriented situations. Our objective was to determine the effect of selected sociodemographic and work-related variables on achievement motivation according to the Achievement Motivation Inventory (LMI) for professionally active nurses. The study included 830 Polish nurses. We have applied the diagnostic survey method, the questionnaire technique, using the LMI and the authors’ survey questionnaire. A statistically significant positive correlation was demonstrated between the respondents’ age and seniority and selected LMI scales. In terms of the effect of educational background on achievement motivation according to the LMI, it was concluded that there was a statistically significant difference at selected LMI levels. The study demonstrated the effect of sociodemographic variables (age and educational background of the nurses under study), as well as the effect of work-related variables (work experience, completed postgraduate training, and the work organization system) on achievement motivation according to the LMI in selected domains. There are statistically significant differences in achievement motivation among the nurses under study according to the LMI, depending on their knowledge of the EBNP issues during their education.
Absence of fibroin H sequences and a significant divergence in the putative fibroin L homolog in Neomicropteryx cornuta (Lepidoptera, Micropterigidae) silk.
Authors: Zurovec Michal , Imada Yume , Rouhova Lenka , Zurovcova Martina , Hradilova Miluse , Podlahova Sarka , Sehadova Hana 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Micropterigidae is the sister group to all other Lepidoptera, providing important insights into the evolution of Lepidoptera. However, the gene and protein profiles of silk from Micropterigidae remain unidentified. We investigated the silk components of silk cocoons of the micropterigid species Neomicropterix cornuta. We characterized the silk glands and cocoons using light and electron microscopy, X-ray microtomography, and molecular techniques. Our results showed that the protein fibroin heavy chain (FibH) is absent in the silk of N. cornuta and that the putative homolog of fibroin light chain (FibL) is also absent or severely altered. This was confirmed by transcriptome and genome searches of the conserved regions in this species. The examination of the conserved synteny around the fibH genes in several Lepidoptera and Trichoptera showed that the genomic region containing this gene was absent in another micropterigid species, Micropterix aruncella. In contrast, we found putative orthologs of fibH and fibL in the transcripts of representatives of another distinct clade, Eriocraniidae. This study showed that the loss of FibH and the loss or severe divergence of FibL occurred specifically in the family Micropterigidae and revealed dynamic evolutionary changes in silk composition during the early evolution of Lepidoptera.
Risk Factors For Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Meta Analysis and Systemic review
Authors: Sun Chen , Li Xia 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prominent autoimmune disease highly linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). Previous research on the risk factors for APOs in SLE pregnancies has been limited by regional constraints or inadequate sample sizes. There is currently a dearth of comprehensive systemic reviews on this topic. To address these research gaps, we conducted a rigorous meta-analysis and systematic review to elucidate the risk factors for APOs in SLE pregnancies.
Methods: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library systematically searched for articles on risk factors for APOs in SLE pregnancy from initiation to December 31, 2023. The pooled Odds Ratio (OR) was estimated using a random-effects or fixed-effects model for each investigated factor. Egger's P value was calculated to assess publication bias and heterogeneity was evaluated by the I2 test.
Results: 42 unique studies were enrolled. Patients with hypertension (OR, 5.23; 95% CI, 2.76–9.91), lupus nephritis (LN) (OR, 3.02; 95% CI, 2.10–4.34), high disease activity (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.39–4.50), low complements (OR, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.39–2.72), antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)/positive antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) (OR, 7.93; 95% CI, 4.35–14.44) were at higher risk for APOs. The risk factors for preterm birth included LN (OR, 3.69; 95% CI, 2.31–5.89), hypertension (OR, 4.50; 95% CI, 1.86–10.87), disease flares (OR, 4.02; 95% CI, 2.24–7.19), disease activity (OR, 3.92; 95% CI, 2.52–6.10), preeclampsia/eclampsia (OR, 8.85;95% CI, 4.72–16.58), and APS (OR, 3.95; 95% CI, 2.20–7.07). The risk factors for pregnancy loss were APS/aPL (OR, 3.46; 95% CI, 2.44–4.91), low complements (OR, 2.60; 95% CI, 1.08–6.27), disease flares (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.36–5.46), LN (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 1.74–6.89), hypertension (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 0.71–1.94), thrombocytopenia (OR, 8.85; 95% CI, 4.72–16.58), and disease activity (OR, 9.19; 95% CI). LN also predicted intrauterine growth restriction (OR, 3.51; 95% CI, 1.30–9.51) and low birth weight (OR, 5.55; 95% CI, 1.29–23.86).
Conclusions: This study identified risk factors for APOs in SLE pregnancies, enhancing clinician awareness and enabling early intervention for high-risk patients.
Gastroesophageal Reflux after Mckeown Esophagectomy with Embedded or Non- embedded Anastomosis: a Propensity Score Matched Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Na , Wang Lei , Lai Yutian , Xia Qi , Tian Dong , Liu Zheng , Zhang Xiaolong , Hu Wei-peng , Yuan Pei-song , Zeng Yu , Wu Xianyu , Yang Wen , Hu Yang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Backgrounds: Gastroesophageal reflux lowers the quality of life (QoL) in patients with esophageal cancer after esophagectomy with gastric conduits. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux, dysphagia, and QoL among patients with esophageal cancer undergoing embedded and non-embedded anastomosis during Mckeown esophagectomy.
Materials and methods: Data from patients who underwent Mckeown esophagectomy for esophageal cancer from March 2022 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The incidence of gastroesophageal reflux, dysphagia, and QoL were measured. We included 218 patients, including 155 patients undergoing non-embedded anastomosis (NA group) and 63 patients undergoing embedded anastomosis (EA group). Propensity score matching was used to provide a balanced cohort consisting of 63 paired cases. Patients’ demographics and clinical data were compared between the two arms.
Results: Before propensity score matching, there were no significant differences between the two arms in terms of sex, age, body mass index, or comorbidities. Neoadjuvant therapy was the only unbalanced variable. After propensity matching, baseline characteristics were all comparable between the two arms. Anastomotic leakage occurred in 1 (1.6%) patient in the embedded anastomosis arm and in 2 patients (3.2%) in the non-embedded anastomosis arm (P = 1.000). Forty-one (65.1%) patients in the non-embedded anastomosis arm and fifty-one (81%) patients in the embedded anastomosis arm slept in the supine position without reflux (P = 0.045). Multivariable logistic regression analysis in the matched cohorts [OR (95% CI): 2.539 (1.084, 5.949), P = 0.032] showed that embedded anastomosis was the only protective factor against gastroesophageal reflux. Evaluation of quality of life showed embedded anastomosis was superior to non-embedded anastomosis in the pain domain (P = 0.036) of EORTC QLQ-OES18. No significant difference was observed in dysphagia severity, measured by Mellow-Pinkas Scale, or dysphagia subscale of QoL.
Conclusion: Embedded anastomosis achieved sufficient control of gastroesophageal reflux without causing dysphagia. It also improved QoL compared with non-embedded anastomosis.
Dynamic Switching of Transmission Modes Hydroacoustic Communication MAC Protocols
Authors: shi chun , huang zijiang , li huiping , cai yinbin , du cuifeng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In recent years, the hydroacoustic communication MAC (Medium Access Control) protocol has attracted wide attention. Hydroacoustic communication networks suffer from issues such as long propagation delays and rapid dynamic changes in network load, which prevent the maximization of network performance through the use of a single transmission mode. In this paper, we propose a Dynamic Switching Transmission MAC protocol called the DSTM-MAC protocol. Firstly, the protocol realizes the design of dynamic switching transmission mode by adapting to changes in network load, introduces a more accurate model for total system delay, and computes parameters such as the switching threshold L and the optimal ﬁxed contention window. Secondly, it carries out parameter design for different transmission modes and realizes dynamic concurrent transmission based on these modes, ultimately achieving the goal of maximizing network performance improvement. Finally, experiments demonstrate that the DSTM-MAC protocol surpasses the traditional DCF protocol in terms of end-to-end delay and system throughput.
Human Resource Management in Homecare in England: Managing People for Safe Care During Crisis
Authors: Le Thoai , Bishop Simon , Macrae Carl 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background: Human resource management (HRM) of healthcare organisations plays an important role in improving the continuity of care, managing staff, and ensuring patient safety. During COVID-19, there were several HR-related issues, creating a significant challenging situation for health and social care institutions. This study explored the HRM issues that are associated with the patient safety in homecare, and how homecare providers have responded to these HR-related challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this is to explore the role of HRM practices in helping care organisations operate efficiently and supporting their workforce to adapt to future disruptive changes and crises.
Methods: Qualitative strategies include narrative inquiry involving gathering information in the form of storytelling by the research participants. Between February 2021 and December 2021, data were collected through semi-structured interviews of 31 participants, including homecare staff (homecare transition practitioners, homecare social workers, and carers), family members, and service users in England.
Results: The research identified key HRM challenges during the pandemic, including staff shortages, high turnover, ineffective communication, occupational stress for front-line carers, and lack of training, all adversely affecting the safety of homecare patients. In response, homecare providers employed strategies like opportunistic recruitment, digital technology for training and communication, and flexible work arrangements to mitigate these issues.
Conclusions: Several implications are proposed, with the over-riding aim of ensuring effective management of HRM practices in responding to address key areas: staffing, performance management, and training. Homecare providers should utilise short-term adaptive recruitment strategies, while also focusing on long-term workforce development and resilience to effectively respond to current and future care needs. Prioritising staff well-being for retention and care quality are crucial. Homecare providers are encouraged to offer flexible work arrangements and digital communication methods, all while being mindful of preventing technostress and digital exhaustion among their staff. They also need to bridge training gaps and employ effective delivery methods to equip healthcare workers with essential skills, thereby enhancing resilience and adaptability in homecare.
Predictors of Symptomatic Relief in WVTT for Prostatic Hyperplasia: 36-Month Prospective Study
Authors: Arroyave Juan Sebastián , Larenas Francisca , Massouh Ragheb , Gonzalez Diego , Brown Pablo Villafranca , Concha Sebastián Arroyo , Zaliasnik Tania Avayú , Giménez Belén , Palese Michael , Fulla Juan 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Existing literature lacks an analysis of factors predicting the achievement of minimum clinically important differences (MCID) after water vapor thermal therapy (WVTT) for prostatic hyperplasia. This study aims to identify these predictors over a 36-month post-WVTT period.
Methods
This prospective single surgeon case series assessed male patients receiving WVTT. Eligibility criteria included being at least 45 years old, having an estimated prostate volume (EPV) of 30–80 cc, an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of 12 points or more, and a maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) under 16 mL/sec. MCID, representing the smallest symptomatic improvement perceived by patients, was calculated using the distribution-based method, considering half a standard deviation of baseline IPSS scores. Correlation and linear regression analyses assessed MCID attainment. Multivariate logistic regression evaluated MCID achievement, considering multicollinearity, heteroskedasticity, and normality.
Results
Of 206 men with a median 29.1-month follow-up (Range: 24–36), 13.6% didn't achieve MCID for IPSS, and 7.2% for QoL scores. Significant hindrances to MCID attainment for IPSS were a large median lobe (> 10mm protrusion) (OR = 3.01, 95% CI: 2.3–3.72), increased median lobe treatments (OR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.23–2.35), and high preoperative irritative IPSS scores (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.13–1.38). Factors for QoL MCID non-achievement included age over 75 (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 1.13–1.38), a large median lobe (OR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.62–2.01), and EPV over 60cc (OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.16–1.97). A 6.3% surgical re-intervention rate was noted.
Conclusions
The characteristics of the median lobe as well as the severity of lower urinary tract symptoms are crucial for treatment success. These should be integral to preoperative assessments and patient discussions on treatment options.
The relationship between the trajectory of body mass index changes over a long lifecycle and the risk of all-cause mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease: NHANES longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Hou Xin-Zheng , Wu Qian , Yang Ying-Tian , Ye Xue-Jiao , Yang Chen-Yan , Lv Yan-Fei , Wang Shi-Han 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The relationship between changes in body mass index (BMI) over a long lifecycle and the risk of all-cause mortality among patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains understudied. This study aims to investigate the association between BMI changes (from age 25 to after 50) and the risk of all-cause mortality in CVD patients.
Methods
This study leveraged data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2018 and the National Death Index (NDI) to construct a longitudinal cohort. Employing weighted multivariable Cox regression and Restricted Cubic Spline (RCS) analyses, we evaluated both the linear and nonlinear associations between BMI (at age 25 and after 50), its changes, and the risk of all-cause mortality among patients with CVD.
Results
A total of 2304 CVD patients were included in this study. During a median follow-up of 68 months, 774 participants died. The lowest risk of mortality was observed when BMI was 19.61 at age 25 and 26.55 after the age of 50. The impact of BMI change between these two time points on all-cause mortality risk exhibited a U-shaped relationship Specifically, when the change in BMI exceeded 8.27, it was positively associated with all-cause mortality risk [HR = 1.16, 95%CI=(1.00, 1.33)].
Conclusion
Among CVD patients, changes in BMI during the long-life span were nonlinearly associated with the risk of all-cause mortality. When formulating weight management strategies in the long life cycle based on BMI, individualized approaches should be taken rather than blindly emphasizing weight loss.
Shaping negative attitudes toward Mafias through immersive virtual reality
Authors: Frisanco Althea , Schepisi Michael , Giannini Anna Maria , Tieri Gaetano , Aglioti Salvatore Maria 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) can transport people to new, artificially generated environments and situations that are otherwise difficult to reproduce due to logistical and ethical constraints. Crucially, IVR has proven extremely effective in shaping attitudes and promoting desirable outcomes. Leveraging this feature, we utilized IVR to counteract the influence of mafias, one of the most detrimental phenomena in our society, by strengthening participants’ opposing attitudes and exploring their behavioral intentions. In a between-subject design study, 100 participants were exposed to either a scenario depicting typical mafia-related activities (experimental condition) or a scenario showing non-mafia-related crime (control condition). We recorded participants’ explicit and implicit attitudes one week before and immediately after the IVR exposure. Explicit attitudes were measured using the Attitudes towards Italian Mafias Scale, implicit attitudes with an ad-hoc Single Category Implicit Association Test (SC-IAT), and behavioral intentions by asking participants whether they would intervene, report, and testify against the crime witnessed in the virtual scenario. Participants in the experimental condition displayed more negative explicit attitudes towards mafias after experiencing the virtual scenario. However, they were also less certain about testifying against the crime, reflecting the well-known phenomenon of omertà, or the law of silence. Our findings confirm IVR as a valuable tool for changing attitudes by providing experiences that individuals might not otherwise encounter. This paves the way for exploring more sophisticated strategies to encourage individual and collective anti-mafia actions.
Environmental microbial reservoir influences the Hydra-associated bacterial communities
Authors: Bathia Jay , Miklos Mate , Gyulai Istvan , Fraune Sebastian , Tokolyi Jacint 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Microbes from the surrounding environment serve as potential colonizers for animal microbiome. We studied the impact of environmental water on microbial communities in freshwater Hydra using correlational and experimental methods. Hydra polyps and water samples were collected from 15 Hungarian lakes, and bacterial community composition was assessed via 16S sequencing. Correlation analyses and neutral modeling evaluated the impact of water microbiota on geographical variation in Hydra microbiota. In the lab, field-collected Hydra polyps from three populations were cultured in either native water or water from another location. Our findings revealed that lake water bacteria significantly contribute to Hydra microbial communities, but the compositional profile remained stable when cultured in different water sources. These results indicate that while water serves as a source for bacterial colonization, Hydra's microbial communities demonstrate resilience to environmental invasion from freshwater sources.