bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is lower severity alcohol use disorder qualitatively different than more severe manifestations? An evaluation of multivariate symptom clusters
Authors: Bailey Allen J. , Ingram Polly F. , Howe Lindy K. , Finn Peter R.
Published: December 2021

Background and Aims

Alcohol use disorder (AUD), since the release of DSM‐V, is conceptualized and studied as a unidimensional construct. However, previous research has identified clusters of AUD symptoms related to excessive consumption/tolerance, loss of control/social dysfunction and withdrawal/craving that have shown differential genetic risks, personality associations and predictive ability. Although past ‘variable‐centered’ (e.g. factor‐analytic) studies have demonstrated the importance of these clusters, the current study aimed to examine how these clusters commonly manifest using a ‘person‐centered’ approach (e.g. latent class).

Design

Cross‐sectional in‐person assessment.

Setting

Indiana, USA.

Participants

A convenience sample of 1390 young adults (mean age = 21.43, SD = 2.47) recruited for an over‐representation of alcohol problems (65% with AUD).

Measurements

Latent class analysis (LCA) was conducted on 23 criteria from the Semi‐Structured Interview on the Genetics of Alcoholism (SSAGA) that align with DSM‐V AUD symptoms. Identified latent classes were characterized using multinomial regressions to examine the association of class and measures of alcohol use, other externalizing psychopathology, internalizing problems and personality.

Findings

LCA results identified a ‘Low Problems’ class (34% of sample), a ‘Heavy Consumption’ class (26%) characterized by high endorsement probabilities of essentially only consumption/tolerance symptoms, a ‘Consumption and Loss of Control’ class (31%) characterized by endorsing consumption/tolerance and loss of control/social dysfunction symptoms, and finally a ‘Consumption, Loss of Control and Withdrawal’ class (9%) characterized by high endorsement probabilities of all symptom clusters. Multinomial regression results indicated an increasing spectrum of severity in terms of psychological impairment.

Conclusions

AUD appears to manifest as different clusters of symptoms at different severity levels.
Requirments for primary human hepatocyte
Authors: Peng Zhaoliang , Wu Jiaying , Hu Shijun , Ma Aijin , Wang Lei , Cao Nan , Zhang Yu , Li Qiyuan , Yu Junying , Meng Shufang , Na Tao , Shi Xiaolei , Li Mei , Liu Huadong , Qian Linguang , Tian E , Lin Feng , Cao Jiani , Peng Yaojin , Zhu Huanxin , Liang Lingmin , Hao Jie , Zhao Tongbiao , Cheng Xin , Pan Guoyu
Published: December 2021

‘Requirements for Primary Human Hepatocyte’ is the first set of guidelines on Primary Human Hepatocyte in China, jointly drafted and agreed upon by experts from the Chinese Society for Stem Cell Research. This standard specifies the technical requirements, test methods, test regulations, instructions for use, labelling requirements, packaging requirements, storage requirements and transportation requirements for Primary Human Hepatocyte, which is applicable to the quality control for Primary Human Hepatocyte. It was originally released by the China Society for Cell Biology on 9 January 2021. We hope that publication of these guidelines will promote institutional establishment, acceptance and execution of proper protocols and accelerate the international standardization of Primary Human Hepatocyte for applications.
Association between cardiovascular risk factors and intracranial hemorrhage in patients with acute leukemia
Authors: Cornelissen Loes L. , Kreuger Aukje L. , Caram‐Deelder Camila , Huisman Menno V. , Middelburg Rutger A. , Kerkhoffs Jean Louis H. , von dem Borne Peter A. , Beckers Erik A. M. , de Vooght Karen M. K. , Kuball Jürgen , van der Bom Johanna G. , Zwaginga Jaap Jan
Published: December 2021

Background

Intracranial hemorrhage is seen more frequently in acute leukemia patients compared to the general population. Besides leukemia‐related risk factors, also risk factors that are present in the general population might contribute to hemorrhagic complications in leukemia patients. Of those, cardiovascular risk factors leading to chronic vascular damage could modulate the occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage in these patients, as during their disease and treatment acute endothelial damage occurs due to factors like thrombocytopenia and inflammation.

Objectives

Our aim was to explore if cardiovascular risk factors can predict intracranial hemorrhage in acute leukemia patients.

Methods

In a case‐control study nested in a cohort of acute leukemia patients, including 17 cases with intracranial hemorrhage and 55 matched control patients without intracranial hemorrhage, data on cardiovascular risk factors were collected for all patients. Analyses were performed via conditional logistic regression.

Results

Pre‐existing hypertension and ischemic heart disease in the medical history were associated with intracranial hemorrhage, with an incidence rate ratio of 12.9 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5 to 109.2) and 12.1 (95% CI 1.3 to110.7), respectively.

Conclusion

Both pre‐existing hypertension and ischemic heart disease seem to be strong predictors of an increased risk for intracranial hemorrhage in leukemia patients.
Origin of langerin (CD207)‐expressing antigen presenting cells in the normal oral mucosa and in oral lichen planus lesions
Authors: Solhaug Maren B. , Schreurs Olav , Schenck Karl , Blix Inger Johanne , Baekkevold Espen S.
Published: December 2021

The number of langerin‐expressing antigen‐presenting cells is higher in oral lichen planus than in normal oral mucosa. However, langerin may be expressed by several functionally different lineages of antigen presenting cells (APCs), and this has important implications for our understanding of the pathogenesis of oral lichen planus. The aim of this study was to determine the origin of the langerin‐expressing APCs. To this end, we examined oral mucosal biopsies from healthy persons and patients with oral lichen planus using multicolor immunofluorescence. In normal oral mucosa, a substantial fraction of Langerhans cells expressed Ki‐67, indicating that steady‐state oral mucosal Langerhans cells are at least partially maintained by self‐renewal. In oral lichen planus, the numbers of Langerhans cells were higher but proliferation was not altered, indicating that the higher cell numbers appeared to depend on recruited dendritic cell (DC)‐precursors. Moreover, we found a markedly higher number of langerin+ APCs within the lamina propria of oral lichen planus lesions. Such cells did not display monocyte‐ or macrophage markers, but rather showed a phenotype compatible with tissue‐elicited IRF4+ cDC2. Detailed understanding of how the oral mucosal APC network is regulated and the functional capacities of the different ontogenies may identify novel treatment targets for oral lichen planus.
Antimicrobial agents in dental restorative materials: Effect on polymerization, short‐term drug release and biological impact
Authors: Feddersen Silas , Kern Gabriela , Berghaus Eva , Kommerein Nadine , Winkel Andreas , Eisenburger Michael , Petersen Svea
Published: December 2021

With the aim to design bioactive dental restorative material, the present study investigated the influence of the antimicrobial agents chlorhexidine diacetate (CHX) and octinidine (di)hydrochloride (ODH) when incorporated in two different materials. Selected parameters were polymerization enthalpy, short‐term drug release, and the effect on Streptococcus mutans as well as human gingival fibroblasts. Samples were made by mixing a nano‐hybrid ormocer (O) and a methacrylate‐based nano‐hybrid composite (C), each with a mass fraction of 2% CHX or ODH. Release profiles and concentrations of active agents from the resins were assessed, and the cell proliferation of human gingival fibroblasts as well as Streptococcus mutans cultured with the eluates were evaluated. The influence on polymerization was assessed by means of differential scanning calorimetry. Both drugs, especially ODH, showed a decreasing effect on polymerization enthalpies associated with a lowered crosslinking degree. At the same time ODH appeared to be released more persistently than CHX. Moreover, ODH was more efficient with regard to bacteria growth inhibition but also more cytotoxic in terms of reduction of cell viability. ODH is deemed more appropriate for application in a dental resin‐based drug delivery system, because of the more persistent drug release than seen for CHX.
Exploring the potential of small water bodies as an integrative management tool for fisheries production
Authors: Aura Christopher Mulanda , Mwarabu Ruth Lewo , Nyamweya Chrisphine S. , Owiti Horace , Ongore Collins Onyango , Guya Fredrick , Musa Safina , Owili Monica , Macaria Sammy , Abila Richard Oginga , Marriott Andrew Lewis
Published: December 2021

Understanding the potential of small water bodies (SWBs) will open greater opportunities in investment towards increased food and energy production. This study established the carrying capacity for fisheries development in SWBs in eight counties in Central and seven counties in Western Kenya. The carrying capacity of SWBs was calculated using socio‐economic index (SI), trophic status index (TSI), and summaries of socio‐economic and limnological data from 74 SWBs. The central region had a potential of 72,447 t in 37 sampled SWBs, whereas that of the western region had only 447 t in a similar number of sampled sites that forms part of the total national aquaculture potential. The higher potential in the central region is attributed to the relatively larger hydroelectric dams located in the area. To boost production in SWBs with low carrying capacities, restocking with native endemic fish species, which require limited or no supplementary feeding, is recommended. However, in SWBs, where depths reach 3.0 m or more, which optimises on intensive feeding and good water circulation, cage culture reared fish coupled with a strong local community association would be recommended. The indexing holistic approach herein forms an integrative management tool for fisheries production.
Consensus guidelines for the diagnosis and management of cryptococcosis and rare yeast infections in the haematology/oncology setting, 2021
Authors: Chang Christina C. , Hall Victoria , Cooper Celia , Grigoriadis George , Beardsley Justin , Sorrell Tania C. , Heath Christopher H. ,   and the Australasian Antifungal Guidelines Steering Committee
Published: December 2021

Cryptococcosis caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans–Cryptococcus gattii complex is an important opportunistic infection in people with immunodeficiency, including in the haematology/oncology setting. This may manifest clinically as cryptococcal meningitis or pulmonary cryptococcosis, or be detected incidentally by cryptococcal antigenemia, a positive sputum culture or radiological imaging. Non‐Candida, non‐Cryptococcus spp. rare yeast fungaemia are increasingly common in this population. These consensus guidelines aim to provide clinicians working in the Australian and New Zealand haematology/oncology setting with clear guiding principles and practical recommendations for the management of cryptococcosis, while also highlighting important and emerging rare yeast infections and their recommended management.
Timely goals of care documentation in patients with frailty in the COVID‐19 era: a retrospective multi‐site study
Authors: Subramaniam Ashwin , Pilcher David , Tiruvoipati Ravindranath , Wilson John , Mitchell Hayden , Xu Dan , Bailey Michael
Published: December 2021

Background

Older frail patients are more likely to have timely goals of care (GOC) documentation than non‐frail patients.

Aims

To investigate whether timely documentation of GOC within 72 h differed in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic (2020), compared with the pre‐COVID‐19 era (2019) for older frail patients.

Methods

Multi‐site retrospective cohort study was conducted in two public hospitals where all consecutive frail adult patients aged ≥65 years were admitted under medical units for at least 24 h between 1 March 31 and October in 2019 and between 1 March and 31 October 2020 were included. The GOC was derived from electronic records. Frailty status was derived from hospital coding data using hospital frailty risk score (frail ≥5). The primary outcome was the documentation of GOC within 72 h of hospital admission. Secondary outcomes included hospital mortality, rapid response call, intensive care unit admission, prolonged hospital length of stay (≥10 days) and time to the documentation of GOC.

Results

The study population comprised 2021 frail patients admitted in 2019 and 1849 admitted in 2020, aged 81.2 and 90.9 years respectively. The proportion of patients with timely GOC was lower in 2020, than 2019 (48.3% (893/1849) vs 54.9% (1109/2021); P = 0.021). After adjusting for confounding factors, patients in 2020 were less likely to receive timely GOC (odds ratio = 0.77; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.68–0.88). Overall time to GOC documentation was longer in 2020 (hazard ratio = 0.86; 95% CI 0.80–0.93).

Conclusion

Timely GOC documentation occurred less frequently in frail patients during the COVID‐19 pandemic than in the pre‐COVID‐19 era.
Epigenetics and CD8+ T cell memory*
Authors: Montacchiesi Gaia , Pace Luigia
Published: December 2021

Following antigen recognition, CD8+ T lymphocytes can follow different patterns of differentiation, with the generation of different subsets characterized by distinct phenotypes, functions, and migration properties. The changes of transcription factors activity and chromatin structure dynamics drive the functional differentiation and phenotypic heterogeneity of these T cell subsets, which include short‐lived effectors, long‐term survival of memory, and also dysfunctional exhausted T cells. Recent progress in the field has shed light on the key contribution of chromatin organization to control the T cell fate specification. In fact, the understanding of these processes has important implications for the development of new immunotherapy protocols and to design new vaccination strategies. Here, we review the current understanding of the contribution of chromatin architecture and transcription factor activity orchestrating the gene expression programs guiding the CD8+ T cell subset commitment. We will focus on epigenetic changes, acting sequentially or in combination, which control the transcriptional programs governing T cell plasticity, stability, and memory. New molecular insights into the mechanisms of maintenance of cellular memory and identity, favoring or impeding the reprogramming, will be discussed in the context of T cell memory differentiation in infection and cancer.
Aerosol generated by dental procedures: A scoping review
Authors: Nóbrega Marina Tavares Costa , Bastos Renata Travassos da Rosa Moreira , Mecenas Paulo , de Toledo Isabela Porto , Richardson‐Lozano Ronna , Altabtbaei Khaled , Flores‐Mir Carlos
Published: December 2021

Background: The current pandemic has raised awareness of aerosol dispersion in dental offices. This scoping review was conducted to assess the amount and spread of aerosol generated by dental procedures.

Methods: This scoping review followed the PRISMA‐ScR protocol and was conducted by searching multiple databases adopting a core search structure for each database. Detailed eligibility criteria were applied. The authors placed no restrictions on study design, year of publication, and study location. The literature search was updated on September 15, 2021.

Results: A total of 51 papers were included in this scoping review. The risk of bias assessment was not conducted as per guidelines. The majority of studies found microorganisms, bloodstains, splatters of aerosol, and particles in the air part of the search strategy. Publication dates ranged from 1969 to 2021. Data came from different dental settings locations. Several factors were identified that have an effect on the amount and spread of the aerosol and spatter.

Conclusion: Although it is clear that the microbial contamination occurred mainly during aerosol‐generating dental procedures, our understanding of the contamination level, spread, and half‐life are limited.
Early soft tissue changes following implant placement with or without soft tissue augmentation using a xenogeneic cross‐link collagen scaffold: A volumetric comparative study
Authors: Tavelli Lorenzo , Barootchi Shayan , Vera Rodriguez Maria , Mancini Leonardo , Meneghetti Priscila Ceolin , Mendonça Gustavo , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: December 2021

Objective

Soft tissue augmentation (STA) at implant sites has the potential of improving peri‐implant health, esthetics, and marginal bone level stability. The present study aimed at evaluating the volumetric changes occurring following implant placement in sites that received STA compared to non‐augmented sites.

Methods

A total of 26 subjects received a dental implant in a posterior edentulous site. Simultaneous STA with a xenogeneic cross‐linked collagen scaffold was performed for the first 13 patients, while the remaining subjects served as the negative control. An intraoral optical scanner was used at baseline and at 12 weeks to generate digital models.

Results

The mean volume (Vol) gain of the test group was 38.43 mm3, while a mean Vol of −16.82 mm3 was observed for the control group (p < 0.05). The mean thickness of the reconstructed volume (ΔD) was 0.61 and −0.24 mm, for the test and control group, respectively (p < 0.05). Higher linear dimensional changes were observed for the test group (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed in terms of keratinized mucosa width and pocket depth changes between the two groups.

Conclusions

Simultaneous STA with xenogeneic collagen scaffold obtained statistically significant higher volumetric outcomes compared to the non‐augmented group.

Clinical Significance

STA at the time of implant placement using a xenogeneic cross‐linked collagen scaffold can prevent remodeling of the ridge during the first 12 weeks, as compared to non‐grafted implant sites.
Dopaminergic imaging in degenerative parkinsonisms, an established clinical diagnostic tool
Authors: Nicastro Nicolas , Nencha Umberto , Burkhard Pierre R. , Garibotto Valentina
Published: December 2021

Parkinson's disease (PD) and other neurodegenerative parkinsonisms are characterised by loss of striatal dopaminergic neurons. Dopamine functional deficits can be measured in vivo using positron emission tomography (PET) and single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) ligands assessing either presynaptic (e.g. dopamine synthesis and storage, transporter density) or postsynaptic terminals (i.e. D2 receptors availability). Nuclear medicine imaging thus helps the clinician to separate degenerative forms of parkinsonism with other neurological conditions, e.g. essential tremor or drug‐induced parkinsonism. With the present study, we aimed at summarizing the current evidence about dopaminergic molecular imaging in the diagnostic evaluation of PD, atypical parkinsonian syndromes and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), as well as its potential to distinguish these conditions and to estimate disease progression. In fact, PET/SPECT methods are clinically validated and have been increasingly integrated into diagnostic guidelines (e.g. for PD and DLB). In addition, there is novel evidence on the classification properties of extrastriatal signal. Finally, dopamine imaging has an outstanding potential to detect neurodegeneration at the premotor stage, including REM‐sleep behavior disorder and olfactory loss. Therefore, inclusion of subjects at an early stage for clinical trials can largely benefit from a validated in vivo biomarker such as presynaptic dopamine pathways PET/SPECT assessment.

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Predicting long‐term trends in inflammatory neuropathy outcome measures using latent class modelling
Authors: Keh Ryan Yann Shern , Selby David Antony , Jones Sam , Gosal David , Lavin Timothy , Lilleker James B. , Carr Aisling S. , Lunn Michael P.
Published: December 2021

Immunoglobulin (Ig) is used to treat chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) and multifocal motor neuropathy with conduction block (MMNCB). Regular infusions may be used for symptom control. Disease activity is monitored with clinical outcome measurements. We examined outcome measure variation during clinically stable periods in Ig‐treated CIDP and MMNCB patients. We explored utility of serial outcome measurement in long‐term outcome prediction. Retrospective longitudinal analysis of a single neuroscience centre's Ig‐treated CIDP and MMNCB patients, 2009‐2020, was performed. Mean and percentage change for grip strength, Rasch‐built overall disability scales (RODS) and MRC sum scores (MRC‐SS) during periods of clinical stability were compared to score‐specific minimal clinically important differences (MCID). Latent class mixed modelling (LCMM) was used to identify longitudinal trends and factors influencing long‐term outcome. We identified 85 CIDP and 23 MMNCB patients (1423 datapoints; 5635 treatment‐months). Group‐averaged outcome measures varied little over time. Intra‐individual variation exceeded MCID for RODS in 44.2% CIDP and 16.7% MMNCB datapoints, grip strength in 10.6% (CIDP) and 8.8%/27.2% (MMNCB right/left hand) and MRC‐SS in 43.5% (CIDP) and 20% (MMNCB). Multivariate LCMM identified subclinical trends towards improvement (32 patients) and deterioration (73 patients) in both cohorts. At baseline, CIDP ‘deteriorators’ were older than ‘improvers’ (66.2 vs 57 years, P = .025). No other individual factors predicted categorisation. The best model for ‘deteriorator’ identification was contiguous sub‐MCID decline in more than one outcome measure (CIDP: sensitivity 74%, specificity 59%; MMNCB: sensitivity 73%, specificity 88%). Outcome measure interpretation determines therapeutic decision‐making in Ig‐dependent neuropathy patients, but intra‐individual variation is common, often exceeding MCID. Here we show sub‐MCID contiguous changes in more than one outcome measurement are a better predictor of long‐term outcome.
Comparison and applicability of three induction methods of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis in murine models
Authors: Yuan Wenxiu , Wu Yange , Zhou Xueman , Zheng Yingcheng , Wang Jun , Liu Jin
Published: December 2021

Background

Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ‐OA) causes severe symptoms such as chewing difficulties, acute pain and even maxillofacial deformity. However, there is hardly any effective disease‐curing strategy because of uncertainty in aetiology. Animal model is an excellent tool to investigate the mechanism, prevention and treatment on diseases. Currently, although several TMJ‐OA animal models have been established, there are almost no comparative studies on different models, which poses a great challenge for selecting suitable models.

Objective

To compare three TMJ‐OA induction methods and assess their applicability considering pathological changes in the cartilage, subchondral bone, osteoclasts, and synovium.

Methods

Murine models were employed and followed for 3 and 6 weeks after experimental procedures (surgery, injection, crossbite). The TMJ changes were evaluated by Safranin‐O/Fast green staining, immunofluorescence staining, micro‐CT, TRAP staining, and HE staining.

Results

In the Surgery group, a pronounced drop in bone volume fraction was observed. In the Injection group, chondrocytes were mostly disordered or arranged in clusters and a substantial increase in the OARSI score and osteoclasts was found. The OARSI score and osteoclasts also increased significantly in the Crossbite group, although to a lower extent compared with injection.

Conclusion

Osteoarthritis‐like changes were observed in all models. Concerning the applicability of the different induction methods, surgery might be an important resource for the assessment of post‐traumatic TMJ‐OA and subchondral bone changes in early stages. Injection induces a severe end‐stage osteoarthritis in a short time and provides model basis for advanced TMJ‐OA. Crossbite might be more reasonable model to explore the pathogenesis mechanism of temporomandibular arthritis due to occlusal disorders.
Outcome of caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps in dogs and cats: 70 cases (2007‐2020)
Authors: Forster K. , Cutando L. S. , Ladlow J. , Anderson D. , Burton C. , Das S. , Gibson S. , Kulendra N. , Emmerson T. , Baines S. , Rutherford L. , Paulino R. D. , Fontanini R. , Compagnone K. , De La Puerta B.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To describe the outcome and complications associated with the use of caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps in dogs and cats.

Material and Methods

Multicentre retrospective review and descriptive study of clinical records of dogs and cats having undergone caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps between 2007 and 2020. Data retrieved included signalment, aetiology of surgical defect, tumour type, presence/absence of clean surgical margins, presence/absence of post‐operative wound infection, use of peri‐ and post‐operative antibiotics, duration of anaesthesia, duration of surgery, presence and duration of hypothermia, presence and duration of hypotension, presence/absence of post‐operative surgical drain and length of caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flap. The incidence of complications and outcomes were documented.

Results

Seventy cases met the inclusion criteria; 51 dogs and 19 cats. In dogs, 67% of cases developed complications (59% minor, 8% major) and 33% had uneventful wound healing. In cats, 53% of cases developed complications, (47% minor, 5% major) and 47% had uneventful wound healing. In dogs, the percentage of cases experiencing dehiscence, necrosis, seroma, oedema and post‐operative infection was 31%, 29%, 26%, 26% and 16% respectively. In cats, this was 26%, 16%, 11%, 0% and 5% respectively. A good overall outcome was seen in 77% of dogs and 79% of cats. A poor overall outcome was seen in 4% of dogs and 0% of cats.

Clinical Significance

Caudal superficial epigastric axial pattern flaps are traditionally thought more robust than other flaps, yet complication rates remain high, despite a high overall success rate.
The Raf‐like kinase Raf36 negatively regulates plant resistance against the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora parasitica by targeting MKK2
Authors: Li Jinfang , Deng Fengyan , Wang Hongmei , Qiang Xiaoyu , Meng Yuling , Shan Weixing
Published: December 2021

Oomycetes represent a unique group of plant pathogens that are phylogenetically distant from true fungi and cause significant crop losses and environmental damage. Understanding of the genetic basis of host plant susceptibility facilitates the development of novel disease resistance strategies. In this study, we report the identification of an Arabidopsis thaliana T‐DNA mutant with enhanced resistance to Phytophthora parasitica with an insertion in the Raf‐like mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase gene Raf36. We generated additional raf36 mutants by CRISPR/Cas9 technology as well as Raf36 complementation and overexpression transformants, with consistent results of infection assays showing that Raf36 mediates Arabidopsis susceptibility to P. parasitica. Using a virus‐induced gene silencing assay, we silenced Raf36 homologous genes in Nicotiana benthamiana and demonstrated by infection assays the conserved immune function of Raf36. Mutagenesis analyses indicated that the kinase activity of Raf36 is important for its immune function and interaction with MKK2, a MAPK kinase. By generating and analysing mkk2 mutants and MKK2 complementation and overexpression transformants, we found that MKK2 is a positive immune regulator in the response to P. parasitica infection. Furthermore, infection assay on mkk2 raf36 double mutant plants indicated that MKK2 is required for the raf36‐conferred resistance to P. parasitica. Taken together, we identified a Raf‐like kinase Raf36 as a novel plant susceptibility factor that functions upstream of MKK2 and directly targets it to negatively regulate plant resistance to P. parasitica.
Frequency and causes of antifungal treatment changes in allogeneic haematopoïetic cell transplant recipients with invasive mould infections
Authors: Roth Romain Samuel , Masouridi‐Levrat Stavroula , Giannotti Federica , Mamez Anne‐Claire , Glambedakis Emmanouil , Lamoth Frederic , Bochud Pierre‐Yves , Erard Veronique , Emonet Stephane , Van Delden Christian , Kaiser Laurent , Chalandon Yves , Neofytos Dionysios
Published: December 2021

Background

Antifungal treatment duration and changes for invasive mould infections (IMI) have been poorly described.

Methods

We performed a 10‐year cohort study of adult (≥18‐year‐old) allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplant recipients with proven/probable IMI to describe the duration and changes of antifungal treatment. All‐cause‐12‐week mortality was described.

Results

Sixty‐one patients with 66 IMI were identified. Overall treatment duration was 157 days (IQR: 14–675) and 213 (IQR: 90–675) days for patients still alive by Day 84 post‐IMI diagnosis. There was at least one treatment change in 57/66 (86.4%) cases: median 2, (IQR: 0–6, range:0–8). There were 179 antifungal treatment changes due to 193 reasons: clinical efficacy (104/193, 53.9%), toxicity (55/193, 28.5%), toxicity or drug interactions resolution (15/193, 7.8%) and logistical reasons (11/193, 5.7%) and 15/193 (7.8%) changes due to unknown reasons. Clinical efficacy reasons included lack of improvement (34/104, 32.7%), targeted treatment (30/104, 28.8%), subtherapeutic drug levels (14/104, 13.5%) and other (26/104, 25%). Toxicity reasons included hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, drug interactions, neurotoxicity and other in 24 (43.6%), 12 (21.8%), 12 (21.8%), 4 (7.4%) and 3 (5.5%) cases respectively. All‐cause 12‐week mortality was 31% (19/61), higher in patients whose antifungal treatment (logrank 0.04) or appropriate antifungal treatment (logrank 0.01) was started >7 days post‐IMI diagnosis. All‐cause 1‐year mortality was higher in patients with ≥2 changes of treatment during the first 6 weeks post‐IMI diagnosis (logrank 0.008) with an OR: 4.00 (p = .04).

Conclusions

Patients with IMI require long treatment courses with multiple changes for variable reasons and potential effects on clinical outcomes, demonstrating the need more effective and safer treatment options. Early initiation of appropriate antifungal treatment is associated with improved outcomes.
Tufted astrocyte‐like glia in two autopsy cases of multiple system atrophy: Is it a concomitant neurodegenerative disorder with multiple system atrophy and progressive supranuclear palsy?
Authors: Homma Taku , Mochizuki Yoko , Tobisawa Shinsuke , Komori Takashi , Takahashi Kazushi
Published: December 2021

Tufted astrocytes are one of the core histopathological features of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). To our knowledge, only three cases of multiple system atrophy (MSA) with PSP pathology have been reported. Here, we report two autopsy cases of MSA associated with the appearance of tufted astrocyte‐like glia (TuALG). Clinically, the patients' symptoms were atypical of MSA; one showed vertical gaze palsy, and the other was a long‐term survivor who progressed to a bedridden state shortly after the onset of the disease. These neuropathological observations were characterized by the copresence of MSA‐specific changes and TuALG in some of the cerebral cortices but few or none of the other PSP tau pathologies. These cases might emphasize the significance of TuALG in non‐PSP neurodegenerative disorders.
Variation in Global Spinal Sagittal Parameters in Asymptomatic Adults with 11 Thoracic Vertebrae, four Lumbar Vertebrae, and six Lumbar Vertebrae
Authors: Yan Ying‐zhao , Wang Ben , Huang Xiao‐qin , Ru Xuanliang , Wang Xiang‐yang , Qu Hang‐bo
Published: December 2021

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of 11 thoracic vertebrae (TVs), four lumbar vertebrae (LVs) and six LVs among asymptomatic Chinese volunteers, and the influence of spine variations on the global spinal sagittal parameters.

Methods

A total of 389 asymptomatic Chinese volunteers were recruited. Each subject underwent a full‐spine X‐ray examination with measurement of global spinal sagittal parameters. The radiographs were examined by a spine surgeon and a radiologist to determine the variation in the number of vertebrae. These parameters were used to compare individuals with five LVs to those with 11 TVs, four LVs, and six LVs.

Results

The study population included 12 individuals (3.1%) with seven cervical vertebrae (C) + 11 thoracic vertebrae (T) + five lumbar vertebrae (L), 8 (2.1%) with 7C + 11T + 6L, 8 (2.1%) with 7C + 12T + 4L, and 15 (3.9%) with 7C + 12T + 6L. Compared to the 7C + 12T + 5L individuals, those with 7C + 11T + 5L had significantly lower C6–T5 Cobb values (P < 0.05); 7C + 12T + 4L individuals had significantly greater thoracic inlet angles (P < 0.05) and significantly lower pelvic tilt (P < 0.05); individuals with 7C + 12T + 6L had significantly greater sacral slope, pelvic tilt, pelvic incidence, and L1–5 Cobb values (all P < 0.05), but significantly lower thoracic inlet angle (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in any of the parameters examined between the 7C + 11T + 6L group and the 7C + 12T + 5L group.

Conclusions

Asymptomatic adults with 7C + 12T + 6L, 7C + 12T + 4L, and 7C + 11T + 5L presented with different spinal sagittal alignment compared to those with 7C + 12T + 5L. Compared to variation in the number of LVs, the variation in the number of TVs had less effect on global spinal sagittal parameters. Spinal surgeons and researchers should be aware of the effects of variation in numbers of TVs and LVs on global spinal parameters and sagittal balance.
New and simple mathematical description of epidemics including consecutive waves
Authors: Petkov Pavel
Published: December 2021

The Bateman linear differential equations describing in time nuclear levels interconnected by transitions (in general, each with its own rate) are adapted to the epidemiology case where only two infection and recovery rates are used. Time‐dependent functions describing successive generations of infected people are thus derived. Closed mathematical expressions allow an easy calculation/prediction of the properties of these generations and therefore of the whole epidemics. The main limitation consists in reaching the point when the number of susceptible to the infection people substantially decreases. As testing ground, reasonable descriptions of the newly registered COVID‐19 cases per day is achieved for Europe and the United States till December 2020, including several so‐called Pandemic waves. The approach of the present work, by using transmission from one generation of infected people to a new generation allows a much more detailed tracking of the Pandemic spread than the approaches used so far. For example, the most widely used Susceptible Infectious Recovered (SIR) models (and their variants) use instead transitions from one big compartment of susceptible people to another new one of infected people followed by recovery leading to a third compartment. Clear correlations are found between features of the Pandemic process and the emergence of new SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, with some of them (especially the variant) immediately influencing the spread of the infection disease in the Pandemic wave of Autumn of 2020.
Why estimates of the peat burned in fires in Sumatra and Kalimantan are unreliable and why it matters
Authors: Jessup Timothy C. , Vayda Andrew P. , Cochrane Mark A. , Applegate Grahame B. , Ryan Kevin C. , Saharjo Bambang Hero
Published: December 2021

Most recent estimates of carbon emissions from Indonesia's peatland fires are based on extrapolation from a narrow base of empirical evidence, raising concerns about the reliability of fire emissions estimates. Measurements of peat fires during ENSO periods are not representative of fires in other years, yet they underlie many estimates of peat fire emissions in ‘normal’ years. Errors may enter into estimates of area burned, quantity of peat combusted and fire emission factors. Problems arise in extrapolating from a few empirical measurements without accounting for conditions that influence combustibility of peat and the heavy fuels through which surface fires transition to become peat fires. These conditions are influenced by drainage and fire history. Our analysis is based on a critical look at a sample of peat fire and emissions studies, including the two most widely cited ones, as well as at the uses made of those studies. Undue extrapolation from unrepresentative empirical studies contributes significantly to the uncertainty of emissions estimates in studies that rely on models rather than empirical observation. We do not offer our own estimates; rather, we argue that the base of evidence must be broadened. We point to examples of empirically based research that more reliably show the contribution of peat fires to overall peatland carbon emissions.
Comparison of heart rates at fixed percentages and the ventilatory thresholds in patients with interstitial lung disease
Authors: Vonbank Karin , Lehmann Antje , Bernitzky Dominik , Gysan Maximilian Robert , Simon Stefan , Krotka Pavla , Zwick Ralf‐Harun , Idzko Marco , Burtscher Martin
Published: December 2021

Heart rate (HR) responses to maximal exercise are commonly used for the prescription of training intensities in pulmonary rehabilitation. Those intensities are usually based on fixed percentages of peak HR (HRpeak), heart rate reserve (HRR), or peak work load (Wpeak), and rarely on HRs at the individual ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) derived from cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). For patients suffering from interstitial lung disease (ILD), data on cardiorespiratory responses to CPET are scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to record cardiorespiratory responses to CPET and to compare fixed HR percentages with HRs at VT1 and VT2 in ILD patients. A total of 120 subjects, 80 ILD patients and 40 healthy controls, underwent a symptom‐limited CPET. From the ILD patient, 32 suffered from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), 37 from connective tissue disease (CTD), and 11 from sarcoidosis. HRs at fixed percentages, that is, at 70%HRpeak, at 70%Wpeak, and at 60%HRR were significantly lower in the ILD patients compared with the control group (p‐values: 0.001, 0.044, and 0.011). Large percentages of HR values at 70%Wpeak and 60%HRR ranged between the HRs at VT1 and VT2 in ILD subgroups and controls as well. HRs at 70%HRpeak were lower than HRs at VT1 in 66% of the IPF patients, 54% of the CTD patients, and 55% of patients with sarcoidosis compared with 18% in the control group. Our findings demonstrate a considerable scattering of fixed HR percentages compared with HRs at the individual VTs derived from CPET in ILD patients. These findings may provide valuable information for the prescription of exercise intensity in pulmonary rehabilitation of ILD patients.
Case study: The effect of wheat density and cultivar on growth and reproduction of burr medic (Medicago polymorpha L.), wheat growth, and yield
Authors: Ali Mubarak , Shabbir Asad , Mahmood Zahid , Weiner Jacob
Published: December 2021

We measured the effect of wheat density on weed biomass and seed production, wheat biomass, and grain yield in five wheat cultivars in Pakistan in the presence and absence of individuals of the weed Medicago polymorpha L. The presence of M. polymorpha decreased wheat biomass and grain yield by up to 25%, even though the density of the weed was low (5 plants m−2). When wheat density was increased from 130 to 390 plants m−2, weed biomass and seed production were reduced by 68 and 85%, respectively, across all five cultivars. The average wheat yield increased by up to 7% with increasing density for all wheat cultivars. The cultivars varied in their responses to the weed and to their own density. While most effects were additive, there was a highly significant interaction between wheat density and cultivar on weed seed production, in which the cultivar that completely suppressed weed seed production at high wheat density was among the least suppressive at low density. The cultivar that produced the highest yield across all treatments was not among the best at suppressing the weed or producing biomass, suggesting that tolerance of weed biomass is also important at low but still damaging levels of weed infestation. Our results confirm that even a relatively low density of M. polymorpha can incur significant yield losses, but also show that it can be managed effectively with cultural practices like increasing seed rate and by selecting weed suppressive and tolerant cultivars suited to the local environment.
Fossil Chondrichthyes from the Neogene of Portugal: Diversity and Occurrence
Authors: Fialho Pedro Rosa , Balbino Ausenda Cáceres , Antunes Miguel Telles
Published: December 2021

Portugal has a rich fossil record both on the continent and in the Azores islands (Santa Maria). For decades, researchers have found thousands of fossils and identified hundreds of species from major taxonomic groups. The present work focuses on analyzing the scientific literature on fossils of Chondrichthyes collected in fossiliferous deposits of the Neogene. Fossils of sharks and rays, teeth, dermal denticles, and caudal spines were discovered in deposits from Aquitanian to Piacenzian (Neogene). About 105 deposits were identified and studied on the mainland and on the Island of Santa Maria, most of which have disappeared or are currently inaccessible. In total, 36 publications list 91 species of Chondrichthyes, 11 of which were described for the first time in Portugal, and 61 genera. Twelve orders are represented in the material published so far.
The Effect of Single-Sided Ribs on Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop Within a Trailing Edge Internal Channel of a Gas Turbine Blade
Authors: Kim Suhyun , Suh Seungwon , Baek Seungchan , Hwang Wontae
Published: December 2021

Convective cooling in a gas turbine blade internal trailing edge channel is often insufficient at the sharp trailing edge. This study examines convective heat transfer and pressure drop within a simplified nonrotating trailing edge channel. The internal passage has been modeled as a right triangular channel with a 9 deg angle sharp corner. A copper plate was heated from underneath via a uniform heat flux heater and examined via infrared thermography for two cases: smooth wall and single-sided ribbed wall. Nonuniformity in the heat flux due to conduction is corrected by a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) conjugate heat transfer calculation, which was validated by the mean velocity, friction factor, and temperature fields from experiments and large eddy simulation (LES). Nusselt number distributions illustrate that surface heat transfer is increased considerably with ribs and coupled with the vortices in the flow. Heat transfer at the sharp corner is increased by more than twofold due to ribs placed at the center of the channel due to secondary flow. The present single-sided ribbed channel utilizes secondary flow toward the corner and is presumed to have better thermal performance than a dual-sided ribbed channel. Thus, it is important to set the appropriate rib length within the channel.
Community resilience demonstrated through a Te Ao Māori (Ngāti Manawa) lens: The Rāhui
Authors: Rewi Leila-Dawn Ngaroimata Kauri , Hastie Jeanette Louise
Published: December 2021

INTRODUCTION: This research project is associated with a small rural community utilising the Te Ao Māori (Ngāti Manawa) understanding of Rāhui, as a means of decreasing the possibility of negative impacts for their mostly Māori population, during the Covid-19 pandemic that was experienced in March 2020 in Aotearoa New Zealand. Rāhui is a conservation measure shrouded in tapu designed to limit, restrict or prevent access to the natural environment. For example, Te Wao Tapu nui a Tāne protecting in the process the mauri of our rivers, lakes, streams following a mishap or misfortune such as a drowning. Equally as important, Rāhui was used as a proactive means of conservation.METHOD: Using mixed methods, this study highlights both positive and challenging experiences in the statistical and thematic analysis that may inform future public health planning for the inevitable and ongoing effects of pandemic responses in Aotearoa New Zealand which are potentially transportable beyond Aotearoa New Zealand.IMPLICATIONS: This research identified how Nga ̄ti Manawa of Murupara, utilised Rāhui as a mechanism of resilience in order to keep local residents thriving and healthy during and after the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown by setting up checkpoints on the borders of their rohe, and restricting the vehicle and human traffic into Murupara. Support for the Rāhui was significant from five hapū leaders and from the community survey illuminating a sense of safety that the checkpoints offered to a vulnerable and mostly Māori rural community.
Asians in Aotearoa New Zealand: A population of interest for social work
Authors: Kim Hagyun
Published: December 2021

Aotearoa New Zealand is a country where cultural differences are widespread and longstanding. The Treaty of Waitangi laid the foundation for an inclusive society where citizens’ full participation is granted. Nevertheless, a number of Asians seem to have limited access to the benefits of an inclusive society, with great concerns over social isolation and marginalisation. This requires social workers attend to Asians’ life challenges, justified by key principles of human rights and social justice; yet a paucity of training exists in social work education, limiting their ability to work with this population. More training is necessary in the social work curriculum through which social workers enhance cultural competence, with relevant knowledge and skills, in relation to working with Asians in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Dissenting social work: Critical theory, resistance and pandemic
Authors: Beddoe Liz
Published: December 2021

Book review
Promoting Health-Related Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Physical Education: The Role of Lesson Context and Teacher Behavior in an Observational Longitudinal Study
Authors: Peralta Miguel , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Ferrari Gerson , Catunda Ricardo , Heriques-Neto Duarte , Marques Adilson
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Physical education (PE) is an important context for promoting health-related cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in youth. Within PE, the lesson context and teacher behavior may be relevant for the promotion CRF; however, evidence is scarce. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess whether students’ CRF improvement in a school year was explained by PE lesson context and teacher behavior. Method: A 1-year observational one-group pretest/posttest study, including 212 students, was conducted. The Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) was used to assess CRF. The PE lesson context and teacher behavior were assessed using the System for Observing Fitness Instruction Time. Multivariate linear regression models were performed to examine the effect of time spent in each category of lesson content and teacher behavior on the change in PACER laps from the beginning to the end of the school year. Results: Lesson time spent in gameplay (boys: B = −0.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] [−0.45, −0.02]; girls: B = −0.17, 95% CI [−0.29, −0.04]), time spent by teachers in instruction tasks (boys: B = 0.38, 95% CI [0.17, 0.60]; girls: B = 0.33, 95% CI [0.17, 0.48]), and promoting fitness (girls: B = 1.40, 95% CI [0.60, 2.20]) were associated to PACER improvement. Lesson time spent in general content (boys: B = −0.24, 95% CI [−0.45, −0.02]; girls: B = −0.17, 95% CI [−0.29, −0.04]) and time spent by teachers in management tasks (boys: B = −0.42, 95% CI [−0.70, −0.15]; girls: B = −0.46, 95% CI [−0.63, −0.28]) were negatively associated to PACER. Discussion/Conclusion: Promoting CRF in PE can be achieved by providing active class contexts, such as gameplay, reducing management time, and promoting in-class and out-of-class fitness.