bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selumetinib in the Treatment of Orbital Plexiform Neurofibroma: A Case Report
Authors: Dai Yi Ling , Choi Catherine S. , Wiltsie Laura , Callahan Alison B.
Published: February 2023

A 4-year-old boy with a known diagnosis of neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) and a diffusely infiltrative plexiform neurofibroma (PN) of the left orbit was started on selumetinib treatment for progressively worsening amblyopia. The patient first presented with new-onset left ptosis at 11 months old. He subsequently developed refractory anisometropic amblyopia of the left eye, in addition to clinically significant left proptosis and hypoglobus that interfered with glasses wear for his amblyopia treatment. The plexiform neurofibroma was not amenable to surgical resection and selumetinib treatment was initiated 3 years after the initial diagnosis. The patient showed remarkable clinical and radiographic improvement in tumor burden after treatment. Best corrected visual acuity improved from 20/50 to 20/20- in his amblyopic eye. Relative proptosis of the affected eye also improved from 4mm to 2mm on Hertel measurements, which allowed for consistent glasses wear. Adverse effects from the treatment were limited to an acneiform rash, which resolved following dose reduction according to the FDA dosing guidelines.
Conjunctival Müllerectomy With or Without Tarsectomy Using Absorbable Versus Nonabsorbable Suture
Authors: Mechels Keegan B. , Hwang Catherine J. , Perry Julian D.
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of blepharoptosis repair using conjunctival Müllerectomy with or without tarsectomy (CM±T) using absorbable suture versus nonabsorbable suture.

Methods:

Retrospective case-series of all consecutive cases of CM±T ptosis repair between January 1, 2019, and August 31, 2021. Patients were placed in groups based on whether they had absorbable or nonabsorbable suture used during their procedure. Preoperative and postoperative measurements of MRD1 were gathered in both groups, and information on patient satisfaction, symmetry, complications, and reoperations.

Results:

Ninety-two patients had surgery using nonabsorbable suture and 96 patients had surgery using absorbable suture, with average age of 72.0 and 70.9 years, respectively (p = 0.488). When comparing nonabsorbable to absorbable suture, the groups did not differ on average preoperative MRD1 (1.11 mm [±0.96] vs. 0.96 mm [±0.86]; p = 0.161), average postoperative MRD1 (3.18 mm [±0.54] vs. 3.20 mm (±0.51); p = 0.736) or average MRD1 improvement (2.09 mm (±0.86) vs. 2.25 mm (±0.79); p = 0.089). Goal MRD1 was achieved in 85.3% of nonabsorbable cases and 82.8% of absorbable cases (p = 0.562) and the rate of reoperation between groups was not significant (p = 0.63). Good postoperative symmetry was noted in 91.6% of nonabsorbable and 91.0% absorbable suture cases (p = 0.83). No difference in the number of complications was noted between groups (p = 0.88), including need for contact lens placement (2.7% nonabsorbable, 1.3% absorbable; p = 0.37).

Conclusions:

The use of absorbable suture was found to have predictable and effective outcomes similar to cases using nonabsorbable suture for CM±T without an increase in complications or rate or reoperation.
Pigmented Inflamed Seborrheic Keratosis of the Bulbar Conjunctiva
Authors: Charles Norman C. , Belinsky Irina
Published: February 2023

A 57-year-old Black man presented with the recent onset of a pigmented temporal epibulbar lesion. As pigmentation of conjunctival epithelial lesions is correlated with complexion pigmentation, the lesion was presumed to represent a pigmented ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN). Excisional biopsy, however, revealed a pigmented conjunctival seborrheic keratosis, a rare occurrence. The lesion lacked cytologic atypia. Intralesional processes of dendritic melanocytes were demonstrated by hematoxylin-eosin and Melan-A stains. Melanophages also contributed to clinical pigmentation. Subepithelial lymphocytic infiltration, elevated Ki67 proliferative rate, prominent mitotic activity, and subtle spongiosis afforded evidence of inflammation rather than malignancy in a lesion devoid of cytologic atypia.
COVID-19–Related Medical Vulnerability and Mental Health Outcomes Among US First Responders
Authors: Lebeaut Antoine , Zegel Maya , Leonard Samuel J. , Healy Nathaniel A. , Anderson-Fletcher Elizabeth A. , Vujanovic Anka A.
Published: February 2023

Objective

The present investigation examined the main and interactive effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)–related medical vulnerability (CMV; the number of medical conditions with potential to elevate COVID-19 risk) and first responder status (emergency medical services roles vs non–emergency medical services roles) on mental health symptoms.

Methods

A national sample of 189 first responders completed an online survey between June and August 2020. Hierarchal linear regression analyses were conducted and included the following covariates: years served as a first responder, COVID-19 exposure, and trauma load.

Results

Unique main and interactive effects emerged for both CMV and first responder status. COVID-19–related medical vulnerability was uniquely associated with anxiety and depression, but not alcohol use. Simple slope analyses revealed divergent results.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that first responders with CMV are more likely to experience anxiety and depressive symptoms and that these associations may vary by first responder role.
Increased actin binding is a shared molecular consequence of numerous spinocerebellar ataxia mutations in β-III-spectrin
Authors: Atang Alexandra E. , Keller Amanda R. , Denha Sarah A. , Avery Adam W.
Published: February 2023

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 5 (SCA5) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by mutations in theSPTBN2gene encoding the cytoskeletal protein β-III-spectrin. Previously, we demonstrated that a L253P missense mutation, localizing to the β-III-spectrin actin-binding domain (ABD), causes increased actin-binding affinity. Here we investigate the molecular consequences of nine additional ABD-localized, SCA5 missense mutations: V58M, K61E, T62I, K65E, F160C, D255G, T271I, Y272H, and H278R. We show that all of the mutations, similar to L253P, are positioned at or near the interface of the two calponin homology subdomains (CH1 and CH2) comprising the ABD. Using biochemical and biophysical approaches, we demonstrate that the mutant ABD proteins can attain a well-folded state. However, thermal denaturation studies show that all nine mutations are destabilizing, suggesting a structural disruption at the CH1-CH2 interface. Importantly, all nine mutations cause increased actin binding. The mutant actin-binding affinities vary greatly, and none of the nine mutations increase actin-binding affinity as much as L253P. ABD mutations causing high-affinity actin binding, with the notable exception of L253P, appear to be associated with early age of symptom onset. Altogether, the data indicate increased actin-binding affinity is a shared molecular consequence of numerous SCA5 mutations, which has important therapeutic implications.
Functional analysis of the apple fruit microbiome based on shotgun metagenomic sequencing of conventional and organic orchard samples
Authors: Bartuv Rotem , Berihu Maria , Medina Shlomit , Salim Shoshana , Feygenberg Oleg , Faigenboim‐Doron Adi , Zhimo V. Yeka , Abdelfattah Ahmed , Piombo Edoardo , Wisniewski Michael , Freilich Shiri , Droby Samir
Published: February 2023

Fruits harbour abundant and diverse microbial communities that protect them from post‐harvest pathogens. Identification of functional traits associated with a given microbiota can provide a better understanding of their potential influence. Here, we focused on the epiphytic microbiome of apple fruit. We suggest that shotgun metagenomic data can indicate specific functions carried out by different groups and provide information on their potential impact. Samples were collected from the surface of ‘Golden Delicious’ apples from four orchards that differ in their geographic location and management practice. Approximately 1 million metagenes were predicted based on a high‐quality assembly. Functional profiling of the microbiome of fruits from orchards differing in their management practice revealed a functional shift in the microbiota. The organic orchard microbiome was enriched in pathways involved in plant defence activities; the conventional orchard microbiome was enriched in pathways related to the synthesis of antibiotics. The functional significance of the variations was explored using microbial network modelling algorithms to reveal the metabolic role of specific phylogenetic groups. The analysis identified several associations supported by other published studies. For example, the analysis revealed the nutritional dependencies of the Capnodiales group, including the Alternaria pathogen, on aromatic compounds.
Predictors for histological chorioamnionitis among women with preterm prelabour rupture of membranes after dexamethasone treatment: a retrospective study
Authors: Peng Jing , Chen Ying , Wan Sheng , Zhou Tianfan , Chang Yu‐Sin , Zhao Xiaobo , Hua Xiaolin
Published: February 2023

Objective

To investigate reliable biomarkers for predicting histological chorioamnionitis (HCA) in women with preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Design

A retrospective study.

Setting

A maternity care hospital in Shanghai.

Population

Women with PPROM before 34+0/7 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Mean values of biomarkers were compared by two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Log‐binomial regression models were used to assess the association between biomarkers and risk of HCA. A stepwise logistic regression model was used to develop a multi‐biomarker prediction model and identify the independent predictors. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to assess prediction performance.

Main outcome measures

The ability of the individual biomarker and the combination of multiple biomarkers to predict HCA.

Results

In 157 mothers with PPROM, 98 (62.42%) women had HCA and 59 (37.58%) women did not have HCA. No significant differences were observed between the two groups in white blood cell, neutrophil or lymphocyte counts, whereas both high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) were significantly higher in the HCA group. HsCRP and PCT were found to be independently associated with the risk of HCA, and PCT had a larger AUC value than hsCRP (p < 0.05). The optimal multi‐biomarker prediction model for HCA (AUC = 93.61%) included hsCRP at 72 hours and PCT at 48 and 72 hours, and PCT had a stronger prediction capacity than hsCRP.

Conclusions

PCT could be a reliable biomarker for the early prediction of HCA in women with PPROM within 72 hours of dexamethasone treatment.
A call for justice work in agricultural and applied economics
Authors: Wilson Norbert Lance Weston
Published: February 2023

This presidential address calls the membership to explore ways of doing justice work in their research, teaching, extension, and outreach activities. By sharing my story and developing a content analysis of presidential addresses and invited papers published in the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association journals, I demonstrate how race has shaped my work and the need for additional work in this area. Through this example, I hope that members of the profession will find new inspiration to do justice work.
Willingness to receive and provide resources in Europe's non‐remunerated and remunerated collaborative consumption
Authors: Majetić Filip , Perez‐Vega Rodrigo
Published: February 2023

Rooted in theory of planned behavior (TPB) supplemented with self‐determination theory (SDT), this study explores determinants of willingness to receive and provide resources in Europe's non‐remunerated and remunerated collaborative consumption (CC). The exploration was conducted within a single research model by assessing the role of (a) TPB constructs reflecting attitude towards participation in CC, perceived social pressure to engage, and perceived level of difficulty that engagement requires and (b) SDT constructs of environmental, social, and economic motives for participation. The data were collected through an online questionnaire, and the structural relationships were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Willingness to consume in non‐remunerated and remunerated CC was positively directly influenced by social pressure to engage in CC and participation being perceived as pleasant, negatively by the level of difficulty that engagement requires, as well as positively indirectly influenced by environmental concern and sociability. Additionally, environmental concern had positive direct effect on willingness to consume only in the remunerated context. Willingness to provide in non‐remunerated CC was positively directly influenced by perceiving participation as pleasant and indirectly by environmental concern and sociability. Resource provision in remunerated CC was not explained by any of the determinants.
Outcome of early treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in patients with haematological disorders
Authors: Mikulska Malgorzata , Testi Diletta , Russo Chiara , Balletto Elisa , Sepulcri Chiara , Bussini Linda , Dentone Chiara , Magne Federica , Policarpo Sílvia , Campoli Caterina , Miselli Filippo , Cilli Alessandro , Ghiggi Chiara , Aquino Sara , Di Grazia Carmen , Giannella Maddalena , Giacobbe Daniele Roberto , Vena Antonio , Raiola Anna Maria , Bonifazi Francesca , Zinzani Pierluigi , Cavo Michele , Lemoli Roberto , Angelucci Emanuele , Viale Pierluigi , Bassetti Matteo , Bartoletti Michele
Published: February 2023

Outcome of early treatment of COVID‐19 with antivirals or anti‐spike monoclonal antibodies (MABs) in patients with haematological malignancies (HM) is unknown. A retrospective study of HM patients treated for mild/moderate COVID‐19 between March 2021 and July 2022 was performed. The main composite end‐point was treatment failure (severe COVID‐19 or COVID‐19‐related death). We included 328 consecutive patients who received MABs (n = 120, 37%; sotrovimab, n = 73) or antivirals (n = 208, 63%; nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, n = 116) over a median of two days after symptoms started; 111 (33.8%) had non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL); 89 (27%) were transplant/CAR‐T (chimaeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy) recipients. Most infections (n = 309, 94%) occurred during the Omicron period. Failure developed in 31 patients (9.5%). Its independent predictors were older age, fewer vaccine doses, and treatment with MABs. Rate of failure was lower in the Omicron versus the pre‐Omicron period (7.8% versus 36.8%, p < 0.001). During the Omicron period, predictors of failure were age, fewer vaccine doses and diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia/myelodysplastic syndrome (AML/MDS). Independent predictors of longer viral shedding were age, comorbidities, hospital admission at diagnosis, NHL/CLL, treatment with MABs. COVID‐19‐associated mortality was 3.4% (n = 11). The mortality in those who developed severe COVID‐19 after early treatment was 26% in the Omicron period. Patients with HM had a significant risk of failure of early treatment, even during the Omicron period, with high mortality rate.
Clinical characteristics of patients undergoing primary bariatric surgery in the United Kingdom based on the National Bariatric Surgery Registry
Authors: Bolckmans Roel , Askari Alan , Currie Andrew , Ahmed Ahmed R. , Batterham Rachel L. , Byrne James , Hopkins James , Khan Omar A. , Mahawar Kamal , Miras Alexander Dimitri , Pring Chris M. , Small Peter K. , Welbourn Richard
Published: February 2023

Baseline demographic characteristics and operations undertaken for patients having bariatric surgery in the United Kingdom are largely unknown. This study aimed to describe the profile of patients having primary bariatric surgery in the National Health Service (NHS) or by self‐pay, and associated operations performed for both pathways. The National Bariatric Surgery Registry dataset for 5 years between January 2015 and December 2019 was used. 34 580 patients underwent primary bariatric surgery, of which 75.9% were NHS patients. Mean patient age and initial body mass index were significantly higher for NHS compared to self‐pay patients (mean age 45.8 ± 11.3 [SD] vs. 43.0 ± 12.0 years and initial body mass index 48.0 ± 7.9 vs. 42.9 ± 7.3 kg/m2, p < .001). NHS patients were more likely to have obesity‐related complications compared to self‐pay patients: prevalence of Type 2 diabetes mellitus 27.7% versus 8.3%, hypertension 37.1% versus 20.1%, obstructive sleep apnoea 27.4% versus 8.9%, severely impaired functional status 19.3% versus 13.9%, musculoskeletal pain 32.5% versus 20.1% and being on medication for depression 31.0% versus 25.9%, respectively (all p < .001). Gastric bypass was the most commonly performed primary NHS bariatric operation 57.2%, but sleeve gastrectomy predominated in self‐pay patients 48.7% (both p < .001). In contrast to self‐pay patients, NHS patients are receiving bariatric surgery only once they are older and at a much more advanced stage of obesity‐related disease complications.
Generalized additive models for categorical count data: An exploration of the decline of queen triggerfish Balistes vetula in the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos
Authors: Urquhart John P. , Olson Donald B. , Babcock Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2023

Citizen science is growing in importance for ecosystem management and long‐term monitoring. A large marine citizen‐science project operated by the Reef Environmental Education Foundation (2021, Reef environmental education foundation volunteer fish survey project database, World Wide Web electronic publication) collected logarithmic categorical data for species abundance across a number of otherwise understudied reefs in The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos during 1994–2020. We used several statistical models to estimate the presence and abundance of trends from these data. Variously specified abundance and presence‐absence models were fit to simulated count data, simulated categorized count data, and real‐world categorical data for Queen Triggerfish (Balistes vetula). These models produced simple patterns of presence and abundance from simulated data with minimal bias that were reasonable predictions based on cross‐validation. Based on model‐based estimates of presence and abundance, the Queen Triggerfish population decreased significantly in The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos during 1994–2020. This simple method for imputing abundance from size‐category counts at the level of individual diver observations, rather than aggregated across multiple observations, allows for higher resolution modeling of predictors of presence and abundance, with implications for other understudied reef‐dwelling species.
Instruments for measuring empowering patient education competence of nurses: Systematic review
Authors: Eskolin Silja‐Elisa , Inkeroinen Saija , Leino‐Kilpi Helena , Virtanen Heli
Published: February 2023

Aim

This review aimed to identify validated self‐reported instruments used to measure nurses' competence or attribute(s) of competence in empowering patient education, to describe their development and main content and critically appraise and summarize the quality of the instruments.

Design

Systematic review.

Data Sources

Electronic databases of PubMed, CINAHL and ERIC were searched from January 2000 to May 2022.

Review Methods

Data was extracted following predetermined inclusion criteria. With the support of the research group, two researchers performed data selection and appraised the methodological quality using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments checklist (COSMIN).

Results

A total of 19 studies reporting 11 instruments were included. The instruments measured varied attributes of competence and the contents were heterogenous reflecting the complex nature of both empowerment and competence as concepts. Overall, the reported psychometric properties of the instruments and methodological quality of the studies were at least adequate. However, there was variation in the testing of the instruments' psychometric properties and lack of evidence limited the evaluation of both the methodological quality of the studies and quality of instruments.

Conclusion

The psychometric properties of the existing instruments assessing nurses' competence in empowering patient education need to be tested further, and future instrument development should be built on a clearer definition of empowerment as well as on more rigorous testing and reporting. In addition, continued efforts to clarify and define both empowerment and competence on the conceptual level are needed.

Impact

Evidence on nurses' competence in empowering patient education and its valid and reliable assessment instruments is scarce. Existing instruments are heterogenous and are often missing proper testing of validity and reliability. These findings contribute to further research on developing and testing the instruments of competence in empowering patient education and strengthening nurses' empowering patient education competence in the clinical practice.
The burden of pre‐admission pain, depression, and caregiving on palliative care needs for seriously ill trauma patients
Authors: Abbas Muhammad , Reich Amanda Jane , Wang Yihan , Hu Frances Y. , Bollens‐Lund Evan , Kelley Amy S. , Cooper Zara
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Increasing numbers of individuals admitted to hospitals for trauma are older adults, many of whom also have underlying serious illnesses. Older adults with serious illness benefit from palliative care, but the palliative care needs of seriously ill older adults with trauma have not been elucidated. We hypothesize that older adults with serious illness have a high prevalence of pain, depression, and unpaid caregiving hours before trauma admission.

Methods

Using Health and Retirement Study data (2008–2018) linked to Medicare claims, we identified patients 66 years or older who met an established definition of serious illness in surgery and were admitted with trauma. Descriptive analyses were performed for baseline patient characteristics, pre‐admission pain (dichotomized as none/mild vs. moderate/severe), depression (dichotomized as no, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale [CES‐D] < 3 vs. yes, CES‐D ≥ 3), and unpaid caregiving hours (dichotomized as low (<30 h/month), high (≥30 h/month)).

Results

We identified 1741 patients, 67.4% were female and 86.8% White. Mean age was 83 (SD 7.5), and 60.3% had ≥4 comorbidities. The majority (62.9%) were admitted due to falls, 33.5% had isolated hip fracture. The prevalence of baseline moderate/severe pain and depression were 38.1% and 42.6%, respectively. Among the cohort, 42.2% had unpaid caregiving, of those 27.7% had ≥30 h/week of unpaid caregiving hours.

Conclusions

Prior to trauma admission, older adults with serious illness have a high prevalence of pain, depression, and unpaid caregiving hours. These findings may inform targeted palliative care interventions to reduce symptom burden and post‐discharge healthcare utilization.
Real Interest Rates, Bank Borrowing, and Fragility
Authors: AHNERT TONI , ANAND KARTIK , KÖNIG PHILIPP JOHANN
Published: February 2023

How do real interest rates affect financial fragility? We study this issue in a model where bank borrowing is subject to rollover risk. A bank's optimal borrowing trades off the benefit from investing additional funds into profitable assets with the cost of greater risk of a run by creditors. Changes in the interest rate affect the price and amount of borrowing, which influence bank fragility in opposite directions. Thus, the marginal impact of changes to the interest rate on bank fragility depends on the level of the interest rate. Finally, we derive testable implications that may guide future empirical work.
Factors That Influence Sleep Behaviors of High School Students: Findings From a Semi‐Rural Community in Georgia
Authors: Perez Zarate Raul , Colman Olivia , Blake Sarah C. , Watson Autumn , Lee Yi‐Ting H. , Grooms Kya , Quader Zerleen S. , Welsh Jean A. , Gazmararian Julie A.
Published: February 2023

Background

Inadequate sleep has been shown to have detrimental effects on academic performance, physical, mental, and emotional health among adolescents. Factors that influence sleep have been identified. However, most literature is currently limited to urban settings. This study sought to identify factors that influence sleep habits among high school students in a semi‐rural community.

Methods

Twelve focus groups were conducted in‐person with separate groups of students, parents, and school staff in October 2019. Discussions focused on sleep experiences, knowledge, environment, and factors influencing sleep. Data were coded using grounded theory approach. Themes were identified through summative content analysis.

Results

Four major themes were identified: (1) inadequate sleep adversely affects academic performance and emotional health; (2) students face a gap in knowledge regarding sleep duration; (3) academic and nonacademic activities compete with sleep needs; and (4) night‐time use of technology negatively influences sleep habits.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that high school students do not get adequate sleep, largely due to the demands of academic and extracurricular activities and the use of electronics at night. These results can guide the development of targeted sleep education and intervention programs.
Paediatric sleep apnea event prediction using nasal air pressure and machine learning
Authors: Crowson Matthew G. , Gipson Kevin S. , Kadosh Orna Katz , Hartnick Elizabeth , Grealish Ellen , Keamy Donald G. , Kinane Thomas Bernard , Hartnick Christopher J.
Published: February 2023

Sleep‐disordered breathing is an important health issue for children. The objective of this study was to develop a machine learning classifier model for the identification of sleep apnea events taken exclusively from nasal air pressure measurements acquired during overnight polysomnography for paediatric patients. A secondary objective of this study was to differentiate site of obstruction exclusively from hypopnea event data using the model. Computer vision classifiers were developed via transfer learning to either normal breathing while asleep, obstructive hypopnea, obstructive apnea or central apnea. A separate model was trained to identify site of obstruction as either adeno‐tonsillar or tongue base. In addition, a survey of board‐certified and board‐eligible sleep physicians was completed to compare clinician versus model classification performance of sleep events, and indicated very good performance of our model relative to human raters. The nasal air pressure sample database available for modelling comprised 417 normal, 266 obstructive hypopnea, 122 obstructive apnea and 131 central apnea events derived from 28 paediatric patients. The four‐way classifier achieved a mean prediction accuracy of 70.0% (95% confidence interval [67.1–72.9]). Clinician raters correctly identified sleep events from nasal air pressure tracings 53.8% of the time, whereas the local model was 77.5% accurate. The site of obstruction classifier achieved a mean prediction accuracy of 75.0% (95% confidence interval [68.7–81.3]). Machine learning applied to nasal air pressure tracings is feasible and may exceed the diagnostic performance of expert clinicians. Nasal air pressure tracings of obstructive hypopneas may “encode” information regarding the site of obstruction, which may only be discernable by machine learning.
Food insecurity and insomnia‐related symptoms among adults from low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Jacob Louis , Smith Lee , Kostev Karel , Oh Hans , Gyasi Razak M. , López Sánchez Guillermo F. , Song Tae‐Jin , Tully Mark A. , Haro Josep Maria , Yon Dong Keon , Shin Jae Il , Koyanagi Ai
Published: February 2023

Little is known about the relationship between food insecurity and sleep problems in low‐ and middle‐income countries, while the mediators of this association are largely unknown. Therefore, we investigated the association between food insecurity and insomnia‐related symptoms in six low‐ and middle‐income countries (i.e., China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia, South Africa), and the potential mediators of this relationship. Cross‐sectional, nationally representative data from the Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health (2007–2010) were analysed. Past 12‐month food insecurity was assessed with two questions on the frequency of eating less, and on hunger owing to a lack of food. Insomnia‐related symptoms referred to severe or extreme sleep problems in the past 30 days. Multivariable logistic regression and mediation analysis were conducted. Data on 42,489 adults aged ≥18 years were analysed (mean [standard deviation] age 43.8 [14.4] years; 50.1% females). The prevalence of any food insecurity and insomnia‐related symptoms was 11.9% and 4.4%, respectively. After adjustment, compared with no food insecurity, moderate (odds ratio = 1.53, 95% confidence interval = 1.11–2.10) and severe food insecurity (odds ratio = 2.35, 95% confidence interval = 1.56–3.55) were significantly associated with insomnia‐related symptoms. Anxiety, perceived stress, and depression mediated 27.7%, 13.5%, and 12.5% of the relationship between any food insecurity and insomnia‐related symptoms, respectively (total percentage = 43.3%). Food insecurity was positively associated with insomnia‐related symptoms in adults from six low‐ and middle‐income countries. Anxiety, perceived stress, and depression explained a substantial proportion of this relationship. Addressing food insecurity itself or the identified potential mediators among people with food insecurity may lead to a reduction in sleep problems among adults in low‐ and middle‐income countries, pending confirmation with longitudinal studies.
Siblings in lockdown: International evidence for birth order effects on child adjustment in the Covid19 pandemic
Authors: Hughes Claire , Ronchi Luca , Foley Sarah , Dempsey Caoimhe , Lecce Serena ,   I‐Fam Covid Consortium
Published: February 2023

Supportive family relationships may mitigate the impact of the Covid19 pandemic on young children's adjustment, but existing work is limited by its focus on within‐country variation and parental influences. Addressing these gaps, and drawing on reported buffering effects of older siblings on child mental health (Lawson and Mace, 2010), the current international study examined whether child adjustment problems were, on average, elevated by the pandemic and whether this buffering effect of older siblings would be maintained. In the first wave of the Covid19 pandemic (April to July 2020), 2516 parents of 3‐ to 8‐year‐old children living in Australia, China, Italy, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States of America—six countries with contrasting governmental responses to the pandemic—completed an online survey about family experiences and relationships and child adjustment, as indexed by ratings on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ: R. Goodman, 1997). As expected, child SDQ total difficulty scores were elevated in all sites except Sweden (which notably did not enforce mass school closures). Compared to children without siblings, children with one or more older siblings showed fewer adjustment problems. Children from lone‐parent households displayed more adjustment problems, as did those whose parents reported increased sibling conflict. Finally, child adjustment problems were negatively associated with family socio‐economic status, but positively related to the indices of Covid‐19 family disruption and government stringency. We discuss these findings in relation to existing work on asymmetric effects of older versus younger siblings, and siblings as sources of support.
Results from a type two hybrid‐effectiveness study to implement a preoperative anemia and iron deficiency screening, evaluation, and management pathway
Authors: Delaforce Alana , Farmer Shannon , Duff Jed , Munday Judy , Miller Kristin , Glover Lynne , Corney Chris , Ansell Gareth , Gutta Naadir , Tuffaha Haitham , Hardy Janet , Hurst Cameron
Published: February 2023

Background

Implementation of pathways to screen surgical patients for preoperative anemia and iron deficiency remains limited. This study sought to measure the impact of a theoretically informed, bespoke change package on improving the uptake of a Preoperative Anemia and Iron Deficiency Screening, Evaluation, and Management Pathway.

Study Design and Methods

Pre‐post interventional study using a type two hybrid‐effectiveness design evaluated implementation. Four hundred (400) patient medical record reviews provided the dataset (200 pre‐ and 200‐post implementation). The primary outcome measure was compliance with the pathway. Secondary outcome measures (clinical outcomes) were anemia on day of surgery, exposure to a red blood cell (RBC) transfusion, and hospital length of stay. Validated surveys facilitated data collection of implementation measures. Propensity score‐adjusted analyses determined the effect of the intervention on clinical outcomes, and a cost analysis determined the economic impact.

Results

For the primary outcome, compliance improved significantly post‐implementation (Odds Ratio 10.6 [95% CI 4.4–25.5] p < .000). In secondary outcomes, adjusted analyses point estimates showed clinical outcomes were slightly improved for anemia on day of surgery (Odds Ratio 0.792 [95% CI 0.5–1.3] p = .32), RBC transfusion (Odds Ratio 0.86 [95% CI 0.41–1.78] p = .69) and hospital length of stay (Hazard Ratio 0.96 [95% CI 0.77–1.18] p = .67), although these were not statistically significant. Cost savings of $13,340 per patient were realized. Implementation outcomes were favorable for acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility.

Conclusion

The change package significantly improved compliance. The absence of a statistically significant change in clinical outcomes may be because the study was powered to detect an improvement in compliance only. Further prospective studies with larger samples are needed. Cost savings of $13,340 per patient were achieved and the change package was viewed favorably.
Tumour necrosis factor stimulated gene 6 intrinsically regulates PD‐L1 expressions in breast cancer cells, leading to modulation of tumour microenvironment
Authors: Lee Jeong‐Hwa , An Ju‐Hyun , Youn Hwa‐Young
Published: February 2023

Recent studies have shown that tumour cells express tumour necrosis factor‐inducible gene 6 (TSG‐6) and its protein, which is known to play a key role in regulating excessive immune responses and proliferation and growth of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). It has not been confirmed whether the inhibition of TSG‐6 for tumour cells can suppress tumour cell growth and regulate the activation of immune cells in the tumour microenvironment (TME). TSG‐6‐specific small interfering RNA was transfected into canine and human breast cancer cells (CIPp, CIPm and BT‐20). TSG‐6‐down‐regulated (siTSG‐6) cells showed decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities. Decreased mRNA expressions of NF‐κB, STAT3 and Sox2, confirming that TSG‐6 is an upper factor governing tumour growth and metastasis. Notably, siTSG‐6 cells showed significantly decreased expression levels of CD44 and PD‐L1. Direct and indirect co‐culture of canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells (cPBMCs) and the siTSG‐6 cells showed significant activation in M1 type macrophages and cytotoxic T cells. They also showed a tendency to decrease in the expression of CTLA‐4 and increase in the expression of PD‐1. In conclusion, this study suggests that the down‐regulation of TSG‐6 in breast cancer cells could not only suppress tumour growth and metastasis, and but also regulate TME. Since modulation of immune checkpoint proteins occurs in both tumour cells and immune cells, inhibiting TSG‐6 and its protein within the TME could be novel therapeutic target for anticancer treatment.
Prevalence and anatomopathological characterization of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas with regional and distant metastases in dogs and cats: 20 cases (1985–2020)
Authors: dos Santos Alex , Lamego Éryca Ceolin , Eisenhardt Luíza Müller , de Vargas Indianara , Flores Mariana Martins , Fighera Rafael Almeida , Kommers Glaucia D.
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of regional and distant metastases from cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) in dogs (n = 11) and cats (n = 9) in a retrospective case series over 36 years (1985–2020), as well as to characterize its macroscopic aspects (location and size), degree of differentiation (well, moderately and poorly differentiated [WD, MD and PD, respectively]) and the rate of cell proliferation, by counting the AgNORs. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to identify patterns of tumour migration and invasion (islands, ribbons, cords, small aggregates, individual cells [fusiform and amoeboid]) and to evaluate the intensity of desmoplasia and the amount of myofibroblasts. The prevalence of metastatic SCCs was 4.39% (21/478), being 3.8% in dog (12/309) and 5.3% in cat (9/169). Metastases affected lymph nodes in all dogs and 66% (6/9) of cats, and less frequently distant organs. Primary tumours predominantly affected the abdominal skin in dogs and the nasal planum in cats. Among the 20 cases, 52% were MDs, 34% were WDs, and 14% were PDs. Histological lesions suggestive of exposure to chronic solar radiation were present in 57% (8/14). The main patterns of tumour migration and invasion were islands for WD SCCs and individual cells for PD SCCs. MD SCCs had a mix of patterns. In cats, individual spindle cells were restricted to PDs. A marked desmoplastic reaction was more associated with PD SCCs and often with MDs. This study highlights that the prevalence of SCC metastases in dogs and cats is predominantly regional. The IHC was essential in the identification of individual fusiform keratinocytes, whose presence in surgical margins may represent a greater risk of recurrence. Although the presence of myofibroblasts was observed in all infiltrative and metastatic tumours, further studies evaluating these cells may be important to better understand their role in the tumour microenvironment of cutaneous SCCs with metastasis in dogs and cats.
Toosendanin‐induced apoptosis of CMT‐U27 is mediated through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway
Authors: Yang Yin , Mei Chen , Xian Hong , Zhang Xue , Li Jun , Liang Zhi‐xuan , Zhi Yan , Ma Yue , Wang Hong‐jun
Published: February 2023

Toosendanin (TSN) is an active compound from the fruit of Melia toosendan Sieb et Zucc. TSN has been shown to have broad‐spectrum anti‐tumour activities in human cancers. However, there are still many gaps in the knowledge of TSN on canine mammary tumours (CMT). CMT‐U27 cells were used to select the optimal acting time and best concentration of TSN to initiate apoptosis. Cell proliferation, cell colony formation, cell migration and cell invasion were analysed. The expression of apoptosis‐related genes and proteins were also detected to explore the mechanism of action of TSN. A murine tumour model was established to detect the effect of TSN treatments. The results showed that TSN decreased cell viability of migration and invasion, altered CMT‐U27 cell morphology, and inhibited DNA synthesis. TSN‐induced cell apoptosis by upregulating BAX, cleaved caspase‐3, cleaved caspase‐9, p53 and cytochrome C (cytosolic) protein expression, and downregulating Bcl‐2 and cytochrome C (mitochondrial) expression. In addition, TSN increased the mRNA transcription levels of cytochrome C, p53 and BAX, and decreased the mRNA expression of Bcl‐2. Furthermore, TSN inhibited the growth of CMT xenografts by regulating the expression of genes and proteins activated by the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. In conclusion, TSN effectively inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion activity, as well as induced CMT‐U27 cell apoptosis. The study provides a molecular basis for the development of clinical drugs and other therapeutic options.
Reseña crítica del artículo “Empatía, redes sociales e indicadores de salud mental durante las crisis sociales en Colombia”
Authors: Gómez-Acosta Andrés
Published: February 2023

*Revisión crítica del artículo: León Rodríguez, D. A., Tobar Herrera, M. P., Hodeg, M. O., & Aguilar Mejía, O. M. (2022). Empatía, redes sociales e indicadores de salud mental durante las crisis sociales en Colombia. Universitas Psychologica, 21, 1-18. https://doi.org/10.11144/Javeriana.upsy21.ersi
The Gut Commensal Escherichia coli Aggravates High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obesity and Insulin Resistance in Mice
Authors: Ju Tingting , Bourrie Benjamin C. T. , Forgie Andrew J. , Pepin Deanna M. , Tollenaar Stephanie , Sergi Consolato M. , Willing Benjamin P.
Published: February 2023

Although identifying specific microbial taxa associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes remains difficult, certain bacteria may play an important role in initiating metabolic inflammation during disease development. Here, we used a mouse model distinguishable by the presence or absence of a commensal
Escherichia coli
strain in combination with a high-fat diet challenge to investigate the impact of
E. coli
on host metabolic outcomes.
Viral and Bacterial Communities Collaborate through Complementary Assembly Processes in Soil to Survive Organochlorine Contamination
Authors: Yuan Shujian , Friman Ville-Petri , Balcazar Jose Luis , Zheng Xiaoxuan , Ye Mao , Sun Mingming , Hu Feng
Published: February 2023

The interaction between viral communities and microbial hosts has been studied extensively, and the viral community affects host community metabolic function through AMGs. Microbial community assembly is the process by which species colonize and interact to establish and maintain communities.
Targeted Screening for Spontaneous Insertion Mutations in a Lactic Acid Bacterium, Tetragenococcus halophilus
Authors: Nukagawa Yuya , Wakinaka Takura , Mogi Yoshinobu , Watanabe Jun
Published: February 2023

Genetic and strain improvement tools to manipulate a gene of interest are required for the nontransformable lactic acid bacterium
Tetragenococcus halophilus
. Here, we demonstrate that an endogenous transposable element, IS
Teha4
, is transposed into the host genome at an extremely high frequency.
Medical Parasitology Taxonomy Update, June 2020–June 2022
Authors: Mathison Blaine A. , Bradbury Richard S. , Pritt Bobbi S.
Published: February 2023

The taxonomy of medically important parasites continues to evolve. This minireview provides an update of additions and updates in the field of human parasitology from June 2020 through June 2022. A list of previously reported nomenclatural changes that have not been broadly adapted by the medical community is also included.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Mixed-Serogroup W/Y Invasive Neisseria meningitidis Strain
Authors: Mauffrey Florian , GaÏa Nadia , Chaabane Chiraz , Renzi Gesuele , Fischer Adrien , Cherkaoui Abdessalam , Bandeira Diane , Schrenzel Jacques , Lazarevic Vladimir
Published: February 2023

We report the genome of a
Neisseria meningitidis
strain (GE-156) that was isolated in Switzerland from a patient diagnosed with bacteremia. The strain belongs to a rare mixed serogroup W/Y and sequence type 11847 (clonal complex 167), as revealed by both routine laboratory examination and genomic sequencing.
Draft Genome Sequences of Escherichia coli and Enterococcus faecalis Coisolated from Polymicrobial Extraintestinal Infections of Chickens and Turkeys
Authors: Walker Grayson K. , Harden Lyndy , Suyemoto M. Mitsu , Thakur Siddhartha , Jacob Megan , Borst Luke B.
Published: February 2023

Coinfections by avian pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(APEC) and
Enterococcus faecalis
in poultry with colisepticemia have become increasingly recognized. Here, we report draft genome sequences of 18 APEC and 18
E. faecalis
strains coisolated from lesions of diseased poultry.
Consistent Stool Metagenomic Biomarkers Associated with the Response To Melanoma Immunotherapy
Authors: Olekhnovich Evgenii I. , Ivanov Artem B. , Babkina Anna A. , Sokolov Arseniy A. , Ulyantsev Vladimir I. , Fedorov Dmitry E. , Ilina Elena N.
Published: February 2023

In this study, we put together a list of potentially the most beneficial bacteria that were associated with a responsiveness to melanoma immunotherapy. Another important result of this study is the list of functional biomarkers of responsiveness to immunotherapy, which are dispersed among different bacterial species.
Modulation of Biofilm Formation and Permeability
in
Streptococcus mutans during Exposure To Zinc Acetate
Authors: Buzza Kara M. , Pluen Alain , Doherty Christopher , Cheesapcharoen Tanaporn , Singh Gurdeep , Ledder Ruth G. , Sreenivasan Prem K. , McBain Andrew J.
Published: February 2023

Zinc salts are added to dentifrices to improve oral hygiene through the control of dental plaque. We describe a method for determining biofilm permeability and show a moderate inhibitory effect of zinc acetate on biofilm formation, and that this inhibitory effect is associated with increases in overall biofilm permeability.
New Insights into the Bacterial Targets of Antimicrobial Blue Light
Authors: dos Anjos Carolina , Leanse Leon G. , Ribeiro Martha S. , Sellera Fábio P. , Dropa Milena , Arana-Chavez Victor E. , Lincopan Nilton , Baptista Maurício S. , Pogliani Fabio C. , Dai Tianhong , Sabino Caetano P.
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobial-drug development is facing increased scrutiny following the worldwide antibiotic crisis. Scientists across the world have recognized the urgent need for new antimicrobial therapies.
Virtual Screening and
In Vitro
Experimental Verification of LuxS Inhibitors for
Escherichia coli
O157:H7
Authors: Bai Yu-Bin , Yang Xiao-Rong , Li Bing , Zhou Xu-Zheng , Wang Wei-Wei , Cheng Fu-Sheng , Zhang Ji-Yu
Published: February 2023

E. coli
O157:H7 is a foodborne pathogen of public health importance. Quorum sensing (QS) is a form of bacterial communication that can regulate various group behaviors, including biofilm formation.
Supplemental Material: Redefinition of the Petersburg batholith and implications for crustal inheritance in the Dinwiddie terrane, Virginia, USA
Authors: Carter M.W. , al. et
Published: February 2023

Table S1: Major- and trace-element geochemical data for 40 samples of Petersburg Granite (sensu lato). Table S2: Isotopic data for all analyses by secondary ionization mass spectrometry on the U.S. Geological Survey/Stanford sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe-reverse geometry (SHRIMP-RG). 