bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
One‐year cognitive follow‐up of COVID‐19 hospitalized patients
Authors: Ferrucci Roberta , Dini Michelangelo , Rosci Chiara , Capozza Antonella , Groppo Elisabetta , Reitano Maria R. , Allocco Elisa , Poletti Barbara , Brugnera Agostino , Bai Francesca , Monti Alessia , Ticozzi Nicola , Silani Vincenzo , Centanni Stefano , D’Arminio Monforte Antonella , Tagliabue Luca , Priori Alberto 
Published: March 2022

AbstractBackground and purposeCognitive dysfunction has been observed following recovery from COVID‐19. To the best of our knowledge, however, no study has assessed the progression of cognitive impairment after 1 year. The aim was to assess cognitive functioning at 1 year from hospital discharge, and eventual associations with specific clinical variables.MethodsSeventy‐six patients (aged 22–74 years) who had been hospitalized for COVID‐19 were recruited. Patients received neuropsychological assessments at 5 (n = 76) and 12 months (n = 53) from hospital discharge.ResultsOver half (63.2%) of the patients had deficits in at least one test at 5 months. Compared to the assessment at 5 months, verbal memory, attention and processing speed improved significantly after 1 year (all p < 0.05), whereas visuospatial memory did not (all p > 0.500). The most affected domains after 1 year were processing speed (28.3%) and long‐term visuospatial (18.1%) and verbal (15.1%) memory. Lower PaO2/FiO2 ratios in the acute phase were associated with worse verbal long‐term memory (p = 0.029) and visuospatial learning (p = 0.041) at 5 months. Worse visuospatial long‐term memory at 5 months was associated with hyposmia (p = 0.020) and dysgeusia (p = 0.037).ConclusionOur study expands the results from previous studies showing that cognitive impairment can still be observed after 1 year. Patients with severe COVID‐19 should receive periodic cognitive follow‐up evaluations, as cognitive deficits in recovered patients could have social and occupational implications.
A knowledge‐based system for electric motors compliance verification in a multinational‐level company
Authors: Ziegler Haselein Bruno , da Silva Jonny Carlos 
Published: March 2022

AbstractElectric motors are highly customizable products that have to meticulously comply with the client's needs, commercial and legal requirements of each market. In this context, the configure‐to‐order (CTO) approach allows the user to define the product configuration at the time of the order and the supplier to develop a product that meets the customer's needs. This paper presents an object‐oriented knowledge‐based system (OOKBS) that integrates rule‐ and case‐based reasoning to verify the compliance of a variant‐rich and complex product—electric motors—in a multinational‐level company. The system adopts a modular structure to evaluate distinct compliance aspects, such as technical constraints and commercial requirements, and to improve the compliance assessment based on the designs of motors previously sold. The work targeted a product line with significant market share in North America, and is the result of a collaboration among the following teams: product compliance, international sales, engineering systems, and product engineering. In total, the system development involved nine experts from these areas. This study has the originality of presenting a product configuration system (PCS) that integrates rule‐based and case‐based approaches to verify the compliance of a modular product. The results indicate a reduction of 73% of internal technical queries within the prototype scope. Moreover, the system usability tests highlight the completeness of outcomes, quick access to information, and easy integration of automatic product compliance verification into the company's design flow. Furthermore, we discussed how the system was effectively implemented in a design routine based on both concurrent engineering and CTO scenarios.
Under warm ambient conditions, Drosophila melanogaster suppresses nighttime activity via the neuropeptide pigment dispersing factor
Authors: Iyengar Aishwariya Srikala , Kulkarni Rutvij , Sheeba Vasu 
Published: March 2022

AbstractRhythmic locomotor behaviour of flies is controlled by an endogenous time‐keeping mechanism, the circadian clock, and is influenced by environmental temperatures. Flies inherently prefer cool temperatures around 25°C, and under such conditions, time their locomotor activity to occur at dawn and dusk. Under relatively warmer conditions such as 30°C, flies shift their activity into the night, advancing their morning activity bout into the early morning, before lights‐ON, and delaying their evening activity into early night. The molecular basis for such temperature‐dependent behavioural modulation has been associated with core circadian clock genes, but the neuronal basis is not yet clear. Under relatively cool temperatures such as 25°C, the role of the circadian pacemaker ventrolateral neurons (LNvs), along with a major neuropeptide secreted by them, pigment dispersing factor (PDF), has been showed in regulating various aspects of locomotor activity rhythms. However, the role of the LNvs and PDF in warm temperature‐mediated behavioural modulation has not been explored. We show here that flies lacking proper PDF signalling or the LNvs altogether, cannot suppress their locomotor activity resulting in loss of sleep during the middle of the night, and thus describe a novel role for PDF signalling and the LNvs in behavioural modulation under warm ambient conditions. In a rapidly warming world, such behavioural plasticity may enable organisms to respond to harsh temperatures in the environment.
OCA‐B does not act as a transcriptional coactivator in T cells
Authors: Lombard‐Vadnais Félix , Lacombe Julie , Chabot‐Roy Geneviève , Ferron Mathieu , Lesage Sylvie 
Published: March 2022

AbstractPou2af1 encodes for OCA‐B, a coactivator of OCT‐1/2 transcription factors, which plays a key role in B‐cell maturation. The function of OCA‐B has also been studied in T cells, where T cells from Pou2af1−/− mice have impaired functions, such as cytokine production and T follicular helper (Tfh) differentiation. Arguably, some of these T‐cell phenotypes may result from impaired T–B interactions, secondary to the well‐documented B‐cell defects in Pou2af1−/− mice. Yet, Pou2af1 is actively transcribed in activated T cells, suggesting a T‐cell‐intrinsic role. To isolate the T‐cell‐intrinsic impact of Pou2af1, we generated Pou2af1fl/fl mice with specific genetic disruption of Pou2af1 either in all hematopoietic cells or exclusively in T cells. While we confirm that Pou2af1 is expressed in activated T cells, we surprisingly find that T‐cell cytokine production is not impaired in Pou2af1‐deficient T cells. Moreover, Pou2af1‐sufficient and Pou2af1‐deficient T cells have comparable transcriptome profiles, arguing against a T‐cell‐intrinsic role for Pou2af1. In line with these observations, we demonstrate that Tfh maturation is influenced by T‐cell‐extrinsic deletion of Pou2af1, as observed both in competitive bone marrow chimeras and in Pou2af1fl/fl mice with specific deletion in B cells. Overall, this study provides strong evidence that Pou2af1 does not act as a transcriptional coactivator in T cells, and conclusively demonstrates that loss of OCA‐B in B cells indirectly impacts Tfh differentiation, clarifying the role of OCA‐B in the immune system.
The patient's perspective of diabetic foot ulceration: A phenomenological exploration of causes, detection and care seeking
Authors: Crocker Rebecca M. , Tan Tze‐Woei , Palmer Kelly N. B. , Marrero David G. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractAimsDiabetic foot ulceration can contribute to lowered life expectancy and quality of life for people with diabetes, and yet, scant attention has been given to improving preventive and educational measures. This article uses a phenomenological approach to explore individuals' lived experiences of diabetic foot ulcerations to explore factors that can be harnessed to achieve improved outcomes.DesignThis was a qualitative study using semi‐structured interviews grounded in a phenomenological framework to explore how patients perceive and understand their foot problems.MethodsStudy participants were recruited from February 2020 to February 2021 from a tertiary referral centre that treats foot problems in persons with diabetes. A total of 15 Hispanic, Native American and White patients participated in the study. We conducted in‐depth semi‐structured interviews which were audio recorded with the participant's consent. Interview data were transcribed and analysed with Dedoose data management software.ResultsAnalysis revealed findings in two primary domains: (1) how patients perceive foot ulceration, with themes around limited understandings of foot ulceration, close sensory observation of foot problems and barriers to ulcer perception and (2) how patients experience the timing of foot ulceration, with themes on how time perceptions shifted as foot problems became more serious, which correlated closely to how patients responded to their foot problems.ConclusionDespite the close sensory observation of their feet, people with diabetes face an array of barriers to recognizing and understanding the implications of diabetic foot ulceration, which can lead to delayed care seeking. Nurses can play a critical role in promoting patient education and improving patient self‐management of foot ulcers.ImpactThis phenomenological study offers important lessons to guide nurses and other providers in enhancing patient self‐management of DFUs and improving care outcomes by expanding an understanding of DFU early warning signs, the imperative to seek medical care quickly, and addressing possible barriers.
A nurse‐led sexual rehabilitation programme for rebuilding sexuality and intimacy after treatment for gynaecological cancer: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chow Ka Ming , Porter‐Steele Janine , Siu Ka Yi , Choi Kai Chow , Chan Carmen W. H. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractAimTo implement a nurse‐led sexual rehabilitation programme for gynaecological cancer (GC) survivors and to evaluate its effects on their sexual functioning, sexual distress and marital satisfaction.DesignAn assessor‐blinded, randomized controlled trial.MethodsThe development of the nurse‐led sexual rehabilitation intervention was guided by the concept of sexual health, as stated in the Neotheoretical Framework of Sexuality; the explicit permission giving, limited information, specific suggestions and intensive therapy model; and evidence‐based nursing interventions for sexuality. Four intervention sessions will be delivered along the treatment trajectory. Women newly diagnosed (within 3 months) with GC will be recruited from the gynaecological units of three hospitals in Hong Kong. The participants (N = 172) will be randomly assigned to the intervention group to receive the nurse‐led sexual rehabilitation programme, or to an attention control group to receive attention on four occasions during the same period when the intervention group receives the intervention. Sexual functioning, sexual distress and marital quality will be measured at baseline, 1 month after the completion of cancer treatment, after completion of the sexual rehabilitation programme and 12 months after cancer treatment. Semi‐structured interviews will be conducted with the participants in the intervention group to explore their experiences with and feelings towards the programme. The study was funded in March 2019 and ethics approval was obtained in January 2019.DiscussionPositive outcomes of the nurse‐led sexual rehabilitation programme will contribute to scientific and practical knowledge about nursing interventions to help GC survivors and their partners to resume a satisfying intimate relationship and adapt to changes in sexuality after treatment.ImpactThis study will contribute to the evidence for and advance research on the effectiveness of nurse‐led sexuality rehabilitation interventions to support women and their partners to rebuild sexuality and intimacy after treatment for GC.
Delivering a holistic hospital‐to‐home framework to support family caregivers of persons with dementia: Protocol for a feasibility study
Authors: Chan Ee‐Yuee , Glass Jr George Frederick 
Published: March 2022

AbstractAimTo evaluate the feasibility of the Carer Matters holistic hospital‐to‐home framework for family caregivers of people with dementia.BackgroundFamily caregivers of persons with dementia face a unique blend of stressors, from behavioural management to navigating the healthcare system. It is important to provide support and assistance to help caregivers cope to enable a sustained capacity for caregiving. This led to our establishment of Carer Matters, the first holistic caregiver‐centric hospital‐to‐home framework of support for caregivers of persons with dementia in Singapore.MethodsA multimethod study design will be used. We will assess the programme's feasibility and effectiveness using a Theory of Change approach, with findings synthesized using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance (RE‐AIM) framework. Our study will involve six inpatient wards of a 1700‐bedded acute care hospital over 12 months. Qualitative data will be obtained from interviews of stakeholders—caregivers, healthcare professionals, hospital leaders and community leaders. Quantitative data will be collected from programme logs, surveys and evaluation forms that capture self‐reported levels of mastery, anxiety, burden, and depression. Funding has been approved by the Geriatric Education and Research Institute (GERI) Intramural Project Grant (GERI Ref: GERI1626) on May 2020 for this study (£103,659), to be conducted from December 2020 to June 2022.DiscussionThe stresses faced by caregivers of persons with dementia are wide and complex, necessitating a multi‐faceted caregiver‐oriented solution to provide sustained support, empower better management and continued capacity to care. Our study would provide insights on the feasibility and effectiveness of a caregiver‐centric support programme stretching from the hospital into the community.ImpactThese findings will provide a blueprint on how to implement a hospital‐to‐home patient‐caregiver framework and provide policymakers, clinicians, and advocacy groups with critical insights on the potential patient‐caregiver‐healthcare system outcomes that can be derived.
Working with or against the system: Nurses' and midwives' process of providing abortion care in the context of gender‐based violence in Australia
Authors: Mainey Lydia , O'mullan Catherine , Reid‐Searl Kerry 
Published: March 2022

AbstractAimsThe aim of this study was to explain the process through which Australian nurses and midwives provide abortion care to people affected by gender‐based violence (GBV).DesignA constructivist grounded theory study.MethodsThis study took place between 2019 and 2021. The lead author conducted semi‐structured interviews with 18 Australian nurses and midwives who provided abortion care. Participants were recruited through pro‐abortion, nursing and midwifery networks using a snowballing technique. Data collection and analysis proceeded using purposive and theoretical sampling until we reached data saturation.FindingsParticipants revealed they underwent a process of working with or against the system contingent on the degree to which the system (the interconnected networks through which a pregnant person, victimized by trauma, travels) was woman centred. When participants encountered barriers to person‐centred abortion care, they bent or broke the law, local policy and cultural norms to facilitate timely holistic care. Though many participants felt professionally compromised, their resolve to continue working against the system continued.ConclusionConservative abortion law, policies and clinical mores did not prevent participants from providing abortion care. The professional obligation to provide person‐centred care was a higher priority than following the official or unofficial rules of the organizations.ImpactThis study addresses the clinical care of people accessing abortions in the context of GBV. Nurses and midwives may act out against the law, organizational policies and norms if prevented from providing person‐centred care. This research is relevant for any location that restricts abortion through stigma, pro‐life influences or politics.
Effect of operating conditions of a solid‐state fermenter on structural and pasting properties of finger millet flour as applied to bread quality
Authors: Chandrasekar Veerapandian , Nambi Eyarkai Vijayaram , Sultan Shahir , John Swamy Gabriela 
Published: March 2022

AbstractThe effect of operating conditions such as bed thicknesses (0.075, 0.15, and 0.225 m) and air velocities (0.12, 0.24, and 0.36 m/s) of a solid‐state fermenter on the structural, rheological, and pasting properties of finger millet during solid‐state fermentation. Also, α‐amylase activity of solid‐state fermented flour was determined. Then, the breads were made from solid‐state fermented finger millet flour to assess the suitability of solid‐state fermented flour for bread making without adding the additives. The color and textural profiles of the bread were assessed. The results showed that the structural and pasting properties of solid‐state fermented finger millet got modified due to bioconversion during fermentation. However, the color values and textural characteristics of bread made from solid‐state fermented finger millet were not up to acceptable level. The study concluded that the operating conditions of solid‐state fermenter affected the bioconversion.Practical applicationDespite the phytochemicals and glycemic value, finger millet flour cannot be used as such for baking without adding additives as it has low dough functional characters. So, the functionalization of finger millet can be improved by solid‐state fermentation. The changes in structural characters, rheological, and pasting characters depend on the operating conditions of solid‐state fermenter. So, for better bioconversion of finger millet and scale up of solid‐state fermentation process, the knowledge about effect of operating conditions on modification of finger millet properties is required.
Clinical assessment of a circadian‐based antioxidant system combined with a comprehensive brightening serum in diverse subjects with moderate‐to‐severe facial hyperpigmentation
Authors: Shah Sachit , Manry Shelly , Makino Elizabeth T. , Mehta Rahul C. 
Published: March 2022

AbstractBackgroundHyperpigmentation conditions can affect all skin types but occur more frequently in darker skin. Because many factors have been implicated in the etiologies of these disorders, multi‐targeted approaches may be required to achieve a better overall outcome in a diverse patient population.AimsThe purpose of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of a combination regimen of a comprehensive cosmetic brightening agent (LYT2) with a broad blend of antioxidants (LVS) to reduce hyperpigmentation and improve overall skin appearance.MethodsThe combination of LYT2 and LVS, in addition to a basic skincare routine, was evaluated in subjects of either Caucasian or Asian (a majority of whom were Indian) descent, presenting with moderate‐to‐severe hyperpigmentation. Efficacy evaluations consisted of investigator clinical grading of overall hyperpigmentation, skin tone evenness, and radiance, as well as subject self‐assessment questionnaires.ResultsImmediate and progressive improvement was noted by the investigators for all assessed parameters. At the end of the 12‐week study, investigators observed a 45% mean decrease from baseline for overall hyperpigmentation. In addition, a 50% improvement in skin tone evenness and a 58% increase in radiance was observed. These investigator assessments were matched by good patient scores for self‐perceived efficacy parameters and high overall satisfaction. One patient (7%) showed a treatment‐related adverse event.ConclusionA combination skincare regimen that combines the pigmentation control of LYT2 with the broad antioxidant defense of LVS is a well‐tolerated and effective treatment option to improve the appearance of facial hyperpigmentation and make skin more radiant.
Developing and testing the EPICC Spiritual Care Competency Self‐Assessment Tool for student nurses and midwives
Authors: Giske Tove , Schep‐Akkerman Annemiek , Bø Bodil , Cone Pamela H. , Moene Kuven Britt , Mcsherry Wilfred , Owusu Benson , Ueland Venke , Lassche‐Scheffer Joanne , van Leeuwen Rene , Ross Linda 
Published: March 2022

AbstractAims and objectivesTo develop and psychometrically test a self‐assessment tool that measures undergraduate nursing and midwifery students’ perceptions of spiritual care competence in health care practice.BackgroundSpiritual care is part of nurses/midwives’ responsibility. There is a need to better benchmark students’ competency development in spiritual care through their education. The EPICC Spiritual Care Education Standard served as groundwork for the development of the EPICC Spiritual Care Competency Self‐Assessment Tool.DesignCross sectional, mixed methods design. A STROBE checklist was used.MethodsThe Tool (available in English, Dutch and Norwegian) was developed by an international group. It was tested between July–October 2020 with a convenience sample of 323 nursing/midwifery students at eight universities in five countries. The Tool was tested for validity using Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) test, exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, one‐way ANOVA and independent samples t test. The reliability was tested by Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsThe KMO test for sampling adequacy was 0.90. All, but two, items were related to the same factor. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the Tool was 0.91. Students found the Tool easy to use, and they gained new insights by completing it. However, students felt that some questions were repetitive and took time to complete.ConclusionsThe Tool has construct and discriminant validity, and high internal consistency (is reliable). In addition, students found the Tool useful, especially in early stages of education.Relevance to clinical practiceThe Tool affords student nurses and midwives the opportunity to self‐evaluate their knowledge, skills and attitudes about spirituality and spiritual care. The Tool offers students, educators and preceptors in clinical practice a tangible way of discussing and evaluating spiritual care competency.