bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Occupational therapy practice with terminally ill Chinese older adults in Singapore: A qualitative exploratory study
Authors: Lim Geck Hoon , Yong Celine , Breen Lauren J. , Keesing Sharon , Buchanan Angus 
Published: July 2022

AbstractIntroductionAs the majority of occupational therapy philosophy has Western origins, occupational therapists working with palliative care clients in Singapore can provide invaluable insight into the practice of occupational therapy within a non‐Western, family‐centric population. This study aimed to describe occupational therapists' perceptions of the occupations of terminally ill Chinese older adults and their caregivers and explore occupational therapy practice with terminally ill Chinese older adults in Singapore.MethodsEleven occupational therapists were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling. Inclusion criteria were being fully registered with the Allied Health Professionals Council (Singapore) with at least 2 years of working experience and currently working with/had experience working with terminally ill patients within the past 2 years. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.FindingsFive themes were constructed from the data: (1) Independence may not be for everyone, (2) it is a family unit, (3) contributing to others' lives is important, (4) what respecting clients means, and (5) a different way of engaging. These themes describe how occupational therapists adapted their practice to better meet the needs of clients and families in Singapore.DiscussionIn family‐centric societies, it may be more relevant for occupational therapists to facilitate interdependence instead of independence in activities of daily living. In addition, activities that contribute to others' lives tangibly/intangibly may be more meaningful and relevant. Finally, occupational therapists could engage clients through the ‘being’ instead of ‘doing’ dimension of occupation.ConclusionWhile occupational therapists in Singapore faced some challenges working with terminally ill clients and families due to differences between occupational therapy philosophy and practice context, by reframing their thinking, they were able to adapt their practices to meet the needs of a family‐centric population.
The end of tax incentives in mining? Tax policy and mining foreign direct investment in Africa
Authors: Coulibaly Seydou , Camara Abdramane 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAfrican countries generally cut corporate income tax (CIT) rates in the hopes of attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), whereas the effectiveness of tax rate reductions in attracting extractive industries FDI is controversial. This paper estimates the impact of the statutory CIT rate, as applied to mining companies, on FDI inflows to the gold and silver sectors of African economies. The estimation results indicate that the impact of the mining CIT rate on the host country's gold and silver FDI inflows is negative, but not statistically significant, at the conventional levels of significance. These results suggest that cuts in the CIT rate applied to mining companies will not necessarily attract FDI to gold and silver projects. Moreover, we find a strategic complementarity in gold and silver FDI inflows between countries, suggesting that an increase in the host country's gold and silver FDI inflows may stimulate FDI to gold and silver projects in neighbouring countries. Furthermore, the results show that infrastructure, government stability and gold and silver reserves positively affect gold and silver FDI inflows. The main findings of the paper suggest that, instead of granting corporate tax incentives, governments may consider improving the quality of socio‐economic infrastructure, the availability of geological information and promoting political and economic stability for attracting mining investments.
The impact of health care strikes on patient mortality: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Essex Ryan , Weldon Sharon Marie , Thompson Trevor , Kalocsányiová Erika , McCrone Paul , Deb Sanjoy 
Published: July 2022

AbstractObjectiveThis study sought to evaluate the impact of health care strike action on patient mortality.Data SourcesEMBASE, PubMed CINAHL, BIOETHICSLINE, EconLit, WEB OF SCIENCE, and grey literature were searched up to December 2021.Study DesignA systematic review and meta‐analysis were utilized.Data Collection/ExtractionRandom‐effects meta‐analysis was used to compare mortality rate during strike versus pre‐ or post‐strike, with meta‐regression employed to identify factors that might influence the potential impact of strike action. Studies were included if they were observational studies that examined in‐hospital/clinic or population mortality during a strike period compared with a control period where there was no strike action.Principal FindingsSeventeen studies examined mortality: 14 examined in‐hospital mortality and three examined population mortality. In‐hospital studies represented 768,918 admissions and 7191 deaths during strike action and 1,034,437 admissions and 12,676 deaths during control periods. The pooled relative risk (RR) of in‐hospital mortality did not significantly differ during strike action versus non‐strike periods (RR = 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.63, 1.31, p = 0.598). Meta‐regression also showed that mortality RR was not significantly impacted by country (p = 0.98), profession on strike (p = 0.32 for multiple professions, p = 0.80 for nurses), the duration of the strike (p = 0.26), or whether multiple facilities were on strike (p = 0.55). Only three studies that examined population mortality met the inclusion criteria; therefore, further analysis was not conducted. However, it is noteworthy that none of these studies reported a significant increase in population mortality attributable to strike action.ConclusionsBased on the data available, this review did not find any evidence that strike action has any significant impact on in‐hospital patient mortality.
Mobilising the public to fight poverty using anti‐poverty labels in online food markets: Evidence from a real experimental auction
Authors: Jiang Yu , Wang H. Holly , Jin Shaosheng 
Published: July 2022

AbstractIn an emerging economy like China where the domestic income inequality has dramatically increased between middle‐class urban consumers and poor rural farmers, food grown by poor farmers with poverty alleviation labels may receive price premiums from consumers with multiple incentives. To reveal consumers' willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) for anti‐poverty labelled food, we implement a non‐hypothetical Becker–DeGroot–Marschak auction online experiment for apples with real shoppers. Results show that consumers are willing to pay 3.66 RMB extra for each kilogram of apples with anti‐poverty labels, indicating the opportunities for using voluntary public food consumption to supplement the government's anti‐poverty responsibilities. Consumers who are more empathic, who believe that anti‐poverty products have higher quality, who have donated money within the past year, and who are not involve with anti‐poverty related production or selling processes are willing to pay more. Additionally, three different information treatments (a beneficiary description, an appreciation certificate and a government promotion document) were found to increase consumers' WTP for anti‐poverty products. Treatment effects are different among consumers with different demographic characters and perspectives about the anti‐poverty label. Lastly, anti‐poverty labels can attract consumers for trial purchase but are not sufficient to lead consumers to make repeat purchases.
Rational engineering of natural polyhydroxyalkanoates producing microorganisms for improved synthesis and recovery
Authors: Borrero‐de Acuña José Manuel , Poblete‐Castro Ignacio 
Published: July 2022

AbstractMicrobial production of biopolymers derived from renewable substrates and waste streams reduces our heavy reliance on petrochemical plastics. One of the most important biodegradable polymers is the family of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), naturally occurring intracellular polyoxoesters produced for decades by bacterial fermentation of sugars and fatty acids at the industrial scale. Despite the advances, PHA production still suffers from heavy costs associated with carbon substrates and downstream processing to recover the intracellular product, thus restricting market positioning. In recent years, model‐aided metabolic engineering and novel synthetic biology approaches have spurred our understanding of carbon flux partitioning through competing pathways and cellular resource allocation during PHA synthesis, enabling the rational design of superior biopolymer producers and programmable cellular lytic systems. This review describes these attempts to rationally engineering the cellular operation of several microbes to elevate PHA production on specific substrates and waste products. We also delve into genome reduction, morphology, and redox cofactor engineering to boost PHA biosynthesis. Besides, we critically evaluate engineered bacterial strains in various fermentation modes in terms of PHA productivity and the period required for product recovery.
Is collagen supplementation friend or foe in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis? A comprehensive systematic review
Authors: Jabbari Masoumeh , Barati Meisam , Khodaei Maryam , Babashahi Mina , Kalhori Ali , Tahmassian Amir Hossein , Mosharkesh Erfan , Arzhang Pishva , Eini‐Zinab Hassan 
Published: July 2022

AbstractRheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) both are chronic diseases affecting joints. Immune response against collagen in both diseases may have a role in the initiation and progression of the disease. There is a hypothesis that suppression of immune response vs collagen could be a therapeutic approach in RA and OA. Exposure of gut immune system to collagen is a way to suppress immune response against collagen in the joints. So, the current systematic review is aimed to evaluate the effects of collagen supplementation in OA and RA patients. In the current systematic review, online electronic databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Sciences and Scopus were searched and finally 19 articles were included. The enrolled articles evaluated the effects of collagen supplementation on treatment of OA (n = 9) and RA (n = 10). Intact (n = 4) and hydrolyzed (n = 5) collagen were used to treat OA. All of the studies on RA used intact and type II collagen in their intervention. The last trials on collagen supplementation in RA and OA patients were performed in 2011 and 2016, respectively. High adverse effects of collagen supplementation and its low efficiency compared to routine treatments were reported by several included studies. Also, risk of bias assessment showed that most of the studies had poor quality. Therefore, it is not possible to definitely decide on the beneficial or detrimental effects of collagen supplementation on OA and RA patients. Further studies are needed to reach a final decision.
Spatial dynamic N‐mixture models with interspecific interactions
Authors: Zhao Qing , Fuller Angela K. , Royle Jeffrey Andrew 
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Interspecific interactions and movement are key factors that drive the coexistence of metapopulations in heterogenous landscapes. Yet, it is challenging to understand these factors because separating movement from local population processes relied on capture‐based data that are difficult to collect. Recent development of spatial dynamic N‐mixture models (SDNMs) made it possible to draw inferences on local population growth and movement using count data of unmarked populations. However, no SDNMs have been developed to account for interspecific interactions and double‐counting observation errors.

In this study we further developed SDNMs to account for interspecific interactions and both false‐negative and double‐counting observation errors. We conducted simulation studies to evaluate the inferential performance of these models under different ecological systems (competition, predator–prey), observation processes (binomial, Poisson) and sampling situations including the number of surveyed sites, detection and the adoption of robust sampling design. We then illustrated the applications of these models with two case studies, one representing a competition system (mallard Anas platyrhynchos, northern pintail Anas acuta) with binomial observations and the other representing a predator–prey system (bobcat Lynx rufus, wild turkey Meleagris gallopavo) with Poisson observations.

The results of the simulation studies showed that the models provide unbiased parameter estimates regardless of the ecological system, observation process and sampling situation. Case studies further demonstrated the capabilities of these models in revealing important ecological processes. More specifically, the first case study revealed a negative effect of the superior competitor, Mallard, on the population growth of the inferior competitor, pintail as well as different movement patterns between these species, whereas the second case study reveal a top‐down effect of bobcat abundance on wild turkey population growth and their differential habitat preferences.

The models developed in this study could be used by themselves on count data or serve as population sub‐models in integrated modelling frameworks to provide insights about metapopulation dynamics of interacting species in heterogeneous landscapes. The flexible structures of these models made them highly adaptive and relevant in population and community ecology.
Changes in lung aeration and respiratory function after open abdominal surgery: A quantitative magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Ball Lorenzo , Serafini Simon Corrado , Braune Anja , Güldner Andreas , Bluth Thomas , Spieth Peter , Huhle Robert , Scharffenberg Martin , Wittenstein Jakob , Uhlig Christopher , Robba Chiara , Schultz Marcus J. , Pelosi Paolo , Gama de Abreu Marcelo 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundAtelectasis is one of the most common respiratory complications in patients undergoing open abdominal surgery. Peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) and forced vital capacity (FVC) are bedside indicators of postoperative respiratory dysfunction. The aim of this study was to describe the changes in lung aeration, using quantitative analysis of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the diagnostic accuracy of SpO2 and FVC to detect postoperative atelectasis.MethodsPost‐hoc analysis of a randomized trial conducted at a University Hospital in Dresden, Germany. Patients undergoing pre‐ and postoperative lung MRI were included. MRI signal intensity was analyzed quantitatively to define poorly and nonaerated lung compartments. Postoperative atelectasis was defined as nonaerated lung volume above 2% of the total lung volume in the respective MRI investigation.ResultsThis study included 45 patients, 27 with and 18 patients without postoperative atelectasis. Patients with atelectasis had higher body mass index (p = .024), had more preoperative poorly aerated lung volume (p = .049), a lower preoperative SpO2 (p = .009), and a lower preoperative FVC (p = .029). The amount of atelectasis correlated with preoperative SpO2 (Spearman's ρ = −.51, p < .001) and postoperative SpO2 (ρ = −.60, p < .001), and with preoperative FVC (ρ = −.29, p = .047) and postoperative FVC (ρ = −.40, p = .006). A postoperative SpO2 ≤ 94% had 74% sensitivity and 78% specificity to detect atelectasis, while postoperative FVC ≤ 50% had 56% sensitivity and 100% specificity to detect atelectasis.ConclusionSpO2 and FVC correlated with the amount of postoperative non‐aerated lung volume, showing acceptable diagnostic accuracy in bedside detection of postoperative atelectasis.
“Why bother?”: Barriers to reporting gender and sexual harassment in emergency medicine
Authors: Zeidan Amy , Patel Jasmyne , Dys Gabrielle , Dean Laura , Curt Alexa , Lin Michelle P. , Samuels‐Kalow Margaret 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundGender and sexual harassment in emergency medicine (EM) is persistent in the workplace but remains underreported. Barriers to reporting in EM are largely unknown. This study explored barriers to reporting gender and sexual harassment among EM faculty and residents and potential improvements to reporting systems.MethodsWe conducted semistructured interviews with EM faculty and residents across the United States, utilizing purposive sampling to ensure diverse representation. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by two independent investigators. Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation and prominent themes were identified from coded data.ResultsA total of 32 interviews were completed with women and men faculty and residents. Prominent themes were identified representing compounding barriers to reporting. Participants described confusion over what constitutes a reportable definition of gender and sexual harassment, unfamiliarity with reporting processes, and multiple avenues (both informal and formal through departmental, hospital, and institutional systems) for reporting. Participants expressed limited confidence in formal reporting systems and related several perceived and actual negative outcomes of reporting. A number of improvements were recommended centering around creating reporting systems that supported, empowered, and protected survivors; improving transparency about reporting processes; and ensuring accountability at a departmental and institutional level.ConclusionsSignificant barriers to reporting exist and deter individuals from reporting. Given the negative consequences of ongoing gender and sexual harassment, emergency departments and institutions must take responsibility to reduce barriers and support individuals throughout the reporting process.
Alcohol use in the year following approach bias modification during inpatient withdrawal: secondary outcomes from a double‐blind, multi‐site randomized controlled trial
Authors: Manning Victoria , Garfield Joshua B. B. , Reynolds John , Staiger Petra K. , Piercy Hugh , Bonomo Yvonne , Lloyd‐Jones Martyn , Jacka David , Wiers Reinout W. , Verdejo‐Garcia Antonio , Lubman Dan I. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackground and aimsApproach bias modification (ApBM) targeting alcohol approach bias has been previously shown to reduce likelihood of relapse during the first 2 weeks following inpatient withdrawal treatment (IWT). We tested whether ApBM’s effects endure for a longer period by analysing alcohol use outcomes 3, 6 and 12 months post‐discharge.DesignA double‐blind, sham‐controlled randomized controlled trial.SettingFour IWT units in Melbourne, Australia.ParticipantsThree hundred alcohol IWT patients (173 men, 126 women, 1 non‐binary; mean age 43.5 years) were recruited between 4 June 2017 and 14 July 2019. Follow‐up data collection was completed on 22 September 2020.Intervention and control trainingFour ApBM sessions were delivered during IWT. ApBM trained participants (n = 147) to avoid alcohol and approach non‐alcohol beverage cues. Controls (n = 153) responded to the same stimuli, but without approach/avoidance training.MeasurementsDate of first lapse was recorded for non‐abstinent participants to determine time to first lapse. Time‐line follow‐back interviews assessed past‐month alcohol consumption at each follow‐up, with participants reporting no alcohol consumption classified as abstinent. In analyses of past‐month abstinence, non‐abstinence was assumed in participants lost to follow‐up. Number of past‐month drinking days, standard drinks and heavy drinking days (five or more standard drinks for women or non‐binary; six or more standard drinks for men) were calculated for non‐abstinent participants at each follow‐up.FindingsApBM significantly delayed time to first lapse [ApBM median: 53 days, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 21–61; controls = 12 days, 95% CI = 9–21, P = 0.045]. Past‐month abstinence rates at 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐ups were 33/153 (21.6%), 30/153 (19.6%), and 24/153 (15.7%) in controls; and 51/147 (34.7%), 30/147 (20.4%) and 29/147 (19.7%) in the ApBM group, respectively. Past‐month abstinence was significantly more likely in ApBM participants than controls at the 3‐month follow‐up [odds ratio (OR) = 1.93, 95% CI = 1.16–3.23, P = 0.012], but not at 6‐ or 12‐month follow‐ups (6‐month OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.60–1.95, P = 0.862; 12‐month OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 0.73–2.40, P = 0.360). No significant group differences were found for indices of alcohol consumption in non‐abstinent participants.ConclusionsApproach bias modification for alcohol delivered during inpatient withdrawal treatment helps to prevent relapse, increasing rates of abstinence from alcohol for at least 3 months post‐discharge.
Treatment patterns of anti‐tumour necrosis factor‐alpha and prognosis of paediatric and adult‐onset inflammatory bowel disease in Korea: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Choe Young June , Han Kyoungdo , Shim Jung Ok 
Published: July 2022

SummaryBackgroundThe global prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing. However, population‐level data are scarce for Asian populations.AimsTo outline and compare paediatric and adult IBD incidence and prevalence data in Korea, describe prescription patterns, and analyse outcomes of anti‐tumour necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) use in a nationally representative cohortMethodsIBD was identified based on the presence of Rare and Intractable Disease diagnosis codes for Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). We calculated age‐based prevalence and incidence, and examined prescription patterns. We used a Cox proportional hazard model to calculate the hazard ratio (HR) for undergoing surgery.ResultsThe prevalence of CD increased between 2006 and 2015, particularly among those aged 10–19 years (12.7–35.5 patients per 100,000 people). The use of anti‐TNF agents increased from 3.2% to 22.9% in paediatric CD patients. Early use of an anti‐TNF agent increased 25‐fold in CD patients. Further, CD patients aged 0–14 years were most likely to undergo fistulectomy (HR, 2.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.73–3.97). Children with UC had a higher risk of undergoing surgery (HR, 3.01; 95% CI, 1.33–6.83) than adults. Early use of an anti‐TNF agent in CD patients was associated with lower odds of surgery than late‐stage use.ConclusionThe prevalence of IBD has increased over time, especially among paediatric patients. Given the magnitude of paediatric IBD disease burden, a multi‐faceted approach is needed for early detection and vigilant monitoring to aim for better prognosis.