bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining methionine‐PET and MRI fluid‐attenuated inversion‐recovery mismatch to determine glioma molecular subtype
Authors: Ohmura Kazufumi , Kumagai Nobutoshi , Kumagai Morio , Ikegame Yuka , Shinoda Jun , Yano Hirohito , Muragaki Yoshihiro , Iwama Toru
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

11C‐methionine (MET)‐PET is a useful tool in neuro‐oncology. The T2‐fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) mismatch sign on MRI is a characteristic finding in lower grade gliomas with isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutations and the absence of the 1p/19q codeletion; however, the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign has low sensitivity in differentiating gliomas and does not aid in identifying glioblastomas with IDH mutations. We therefore investigated the efficacy of the combination of the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign and MET‐PET for accurately determining the molecular subtype of gliomas of all grades.

Methods

The present study comprised 208 adult patients diagnosed with supratentorial glioma confirmed by molecular genetics and histopathology. The ratio of the maximum lesion MET accumulation to the mean normal frontal cortex MET accumulation (T/N) was measured. The presence or absence of the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign was determined. The presence or absence of the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign and the MET T/N ratio were compared between glioma subtypes to evaluate individual and combined utility in identifying gliomas with IDH mutations and no 1p/19q codeletion (IDHmut‐Noncodel) or gliomas with IDH mutations (IDHmut).

Results

The addition of MET‐PET to MRI for the presence of the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign improved diagnostic accuracy, with the area under the curve values increasing from .852 to .871 for IDHmut‐Noncodel and from .688 to .808 for IDHmut.

Conclusions

The combination of the T2‐FLAIR mismatch sign and MET‐PET may provide improved diagnostic utility in differentiating gliomas according to molecular subtype, particularly in determining IDH mutation status.
Oral health and risk of cognitive disorders in older adults: A biannual longitudinal follow‐up cohort
Authors: Kim Keun‐Suh , Ahn Soyeon , Han Ji Won , Cho Sang Hyun , Lee Jung‐Tae , Lee Hyo‐Jung , Kim Ki Woong
Published: May 2023

Background

Oral health may be associated with cognitive disorders such as mild cognitive impairment or dementia.

Objective

This study elucidates the effects of oral health conditions on the progression of cognitive disorders.

Methods

Data were collected from 153 participants of the Korean Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Aging and Dementia cohort who completed the longitudinal dental examinations and cognitive function assessments using the three‐wave biannual survey. We analysed the relationship between dental factors and the conversion of cognitive function.

Results

The ratio of maxillary removable partial denture use (p = .03) was high in the converter and mild cognitive impairment/dementia groups. The low‐grade ratio of posterior masticatory performance increased in the converter and mild cognitive impairment/dementia groups (modified Eichner index 2, p = .04). The mild cognitive impairment/dementia group had a higher rate of complete mandibular denture use (p < .001). The converter and mild cognitive impairment/dementia groups had fewer remaining teeth (p < .05) or removable prostheses (p < .01) than the normal group.

Conclusions

Masticatory performance is associated with the conversion of cognitive disorders. Our findings suggest that oral health management can help delay the progression of cognitive disorders.
Clinical evaluation of removable partial dentures with digitally fabricated metal framework after 4 years of clinical service
Authors: Mourouzis Petros , Pandoleon Panagiotis , Tortopidis Dimitrios , Tolidis Kosmas
Published: May 2023

This case report describes the clinical outcomes of three patients who received removable partial dentures with a completely digitally designed and manufactured metal framework. The initial intraoral impressions were prepared, and the resulting standard tessellation language files were sent to a dental laboratory, where the alloy framework was designed using inLab software and printed using a 3D printer or milled directly from a Co–Cr disc. The quality of fit of the framework was evaluated intraorally to confirm the laboratory design. The acrylic teeth were set, and the definitive partial dentures were delivered after the acrylic resin bases were processed. The follow‐up time was 4 years. No complications or failures related to the components of the partial dentures were observed.
How do CATA questions work? Relationship between likelihood of selecting a term and perceived attribute intensity
Authors: Jaeger Sara R. , Chheang Sok L. , Jin David , Ryan Grace S. , Ares Gastón
Published: May 2023

The present research contributed to a better understanding of how check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) questions work by examining the relationship between likelihood of selecting a term and perceived attribute intensity. Seven consumer studies were conducted (147–157 people per study) using within‐subjects experimental designs where participants twice evaluated the same set of stimuli on the same set of terms (or attributes), respectively with CATA questions and intensity scaling (7‐point category scale; 1 = “not at all,” 7 = “extremely”). As a function of perceived intensity, the average CATA citation frequency tended to follow a sigmoidal‐like relationship where likelihood of selecting a CATA term increased more slowly at the extreme ends of the intensity scale (1–2 and 6–7) and linearly otherwise. This illuminates why for a given term, CATA questions are less suited for discriminating between samples that are of similar “low” or “high” intensity.

Practical Applications

CATA questions are popular for sensory product characterization tasks with consumers. Despite their simplicity, they accurately discriminate among samples, and term citation frequency is a proxy for perceived intensity, albeit not a direct measure hereof. Versatility and applicability of CATA questions to characterize diverse stimuli using diverse types of terms/attributes was demonstrated. By showing that likelihood of CATA term selection typically increases with perceived intensity according to a sigmoidal‐like shape, the present research shows that CATA terms best discriminate between samples when these vary in intensity rather than being of similar “low” or “high” perceived intensity.
Chromium isotopes identify the extraterrestrial component in impactites from Dhala impact structure, India
Authors: Anand Aryavart , Singh Anuj Kumar , Mezger Klaus , Pati Jayanta Kumar
Published: May 2023

The Dhala structure in north‐central India is a confirmed complex impact structure of Paleoproterozoic age. The presence of an extraterrestrial component in impactites from the Dhala structure was recognized by geochemical analyses of highly siderophile elements and Os isotopic compositions; however, the impactor type has remained unidentified. This study uses Cr isotope systematics to identify the type of projectile involved in the formation of the Dhala structure. Unlike the composition of siderophile elements (e.g., Ni, Cr, Co, and platinum group elements) and their inter‐element ratios that may get compromised due to the extreme energy generated during an impact, Cr isotopes retain the distinct composition of the impactor. The distinct ε54Cr value of −0.31 ± 0.09 for a Dhala impact melt breccia sample (D6‐57) indicates inheritance from an impactor originating within the non‐carbonaceous reservoir, that is, the inner Solar System. Based on the Ni/Cr ratio, Os abundance, and Cr isotopic composition of the samples, the impactor is constrained to be of ureilite type. Binary mixing calculations also indicate contamination of the target rock by 0.1–0.3 wt% of material from a ureilite‐like impactor. Together with the previously identified impactors that formed El'gygytgyn, Zhamanshin, and Lonar impact structures, the Cr isotopic compositions of the Dhala impactites argue for a much more diverse source of the objects that collided with the Earth over its geological history than has been supposed previously.
Helping learners develop autonomy in acquiring multiword expressions
Authors: Boers Frank , Bui Thuy , Deconinck Julie , Stengers Hélène , Coxhead Averil
Published: May 2023

Second language (L2) learners stand to gain substantially from mastering a wide range of multiword expressions (MWEs), and several studies have examined the benefits of language courses that regularly draw learners’ attention to MWEs. However, most of these studies focused on the learners’ retention of the MWEs included in the course materials and did not examine a potential broader and longer term effect. In the present study, upper‐intermediate students of English (N = 54) attended extracurricular classes over the course of 11 weeks (40 minutes per week) in which they either extracted MWEs from texts or engaged only in content‐related activities. Outside the context of the experiment, the students occasionally wrote essays as part of their regular L2 curriculum. One of these essays was collected before the intervention, another shortly afterward, and a third 5 months later. Three coders independently identified MWEs in these essays. Both postcourse essays written by the students who had focused on MWEs were found to be richer in MWEs than those written by the comparison group. The difference was only in part due to a greater use of items encountered in the course texts, suggesting a broader and longer term effect on the students’ autonomous acquisition of MWEs.
MRI tagging of colonic chyme mixing in healthy subjects: Inter‐observer variability and reliability of the measurement with time
Authors: Alshammari Meshari T. , Alyami Ali S. , Wilkinson‐Smith Victoria , Spiller Robin C. , Gowland Penny , Marciani Luca , Moran Gordon W. , Hoad Caroline L.
Published: May 2023

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tagging techniques have been applied to the GI tract to assess bowel contractions and content mixing. We aimed to evaluate the dependence of a tagging measurement (for assessing chyme mixing) on inter‐observer variability in both the ascending colon (AC) and descending colon (DC) and to investigate the temporal variation and hence reliability of the colonic tagging technique by acquiring multiple measurements over time on healthy participants.

Methods

Two independent datasets of healthy adults were used for the retrospective inter‐observer variability (Study 1: 13 datasets and Study 2: 31 datasets), and ten participants were scanned for the prospective temporal variation study following a 1 L mannitol oral preparation. All colonic tagging data were acquired on 3 T MRI scanners. The mean and the standard deviation (SD) maps were generated pixel‐by‐pixel using custom‐written software in MATLAB. The colonic regions of interest were defined using MIPAV software. Bland–Altman plots and scatter plots were used for the inter‐observer variability. The mean and SD of all repeated measures for each subject were calculated along with a one‐way ANOVA to test for variations with time.

Results

Scatter plots and Bland–Altman plots showed a large range of data with low variation and small limits of agreements (<5% CoV). The intraclass correlation coefficient of inter‐rater reliability was excellent and 0.97 or above for the AC and DC measurements for both datasets. The temporal variation study shows that there was no significant difference found between the multiple measures with time (p = 0.53, one‐way repeated measures ANOVA test).

Conclusions

MRI tagging technique can provide an assessment of colonic chyme mixing. The inter‐observer study data showed high inter‐rater agreement. The temporal variation study showed some individual variations with time suggesting multiple measurements may be needed to increase accuracy.
Absence of aluminium compromises root integrity, reduces leaf hydration and Rubisco performance in Qualea grandiflora, an Al‐accumulating species
Authors: Silva G. S. , Rodrigues J. S. , Carvalho B. M. d. O. , Gavassi M. A. , Bressan A. C. G. , Habermann G.
Published: May 2023

Aluminium (Al) is toxic to most plants. Nevertheless, some species accumulate Al without showing toxicity symptoms. Previous studies have evidenced Al in chloroplasts of Al‐accumulating species from the Cerrado vegetation in South America. We ask whether Al increases carbon assimilation through enhanced apparent efficiency of Rubisco.

Seedlings of the Al‐accumulator Qualea grandiflora (Vochysiaceae) were grown in nutrient solution with 0, 740, and 1480 μm Al. Growth parameters, relative leaf water content, Al concentration in organs, gas exchange and apparent carboxylation efficiency (measured from A/Ci curves) were evaluated for 60 days.

Plants without Al showed no root growth, necrotic roots, low gas exchange rates, and decreased apparent carboxylation efficiency. Al‐treated plants, however, showed new white roots and increased root biomass leading to higher leaf hydration, and apparent carboxylation efficiency was higher in these plants. Increased Al available in the nutrient solution increased Al accumulation in plant organs.

Absence of Al compromised root integrity in Q. grandiflora, thus limiting leaf hydration. No positive direct effect of Al on Rubisco was evidenced in Al‐treated plants.
Can neural correlates of encoding explain the context dependence of reward‐enhanced memory?
Authors: Hellerstedt Robin , Bekinschtein Tristan , Talmi Deborah
Published: May 2023

Selective encoding can be studied by manipulating how valuable it is for participants to remember specific stimuli, for instance, by varying the monetary reward participants receive for recalling a particular stimulus in a subsequent memory test. It would be reasonable for participants to strategically attend more to high‐reward items compared to low‐reward items in mixed list contexts, but to attend both types of items equally in pure list contexts, where all items are of equal value. Reward‐enhanced memory may be driven by automatic dopaminergic interactions between reward circuitry and the hippocampus and thus be insensitive to list context; or it may be driven by meta‐cognitive strategies, and thus context‐dependent. We contrasted these alternatives by manipulating list composition and tracked selective encoding through multiple EEG measures of attention and rehearsal. Behavioral results were context‐dependent, such that recall of high‐reward items was increased only in mixed lists. This result and aspects of the recall dynamics confirm predictions of the eCMR (emotional Context Maintenance and Retrieval) model. The power of ssVEPs was lower for high‐reward items regardless of list composition, suggesting decreased visual processing of high‐reward stimuli and that ssVEPs may index the modulation of context‐to‐item associations predicted by eCMR. By contrast, reward modulated the amplitude of Late Positive Potential and Frontal Slow Wave only in mixed lists. Taken together, the results provide evidence that reward‐enhanced memory is caused by an interplay between strategic processes applied when high‐ and low‐reward items compete for cognitive resources during encoding and context‐dependent mechanisms operating during recall.
A new acquisition model for the next disaster: Overcoming disaster federalism issues through effective utilization of the Strategic National Stockpile
Authors: Handfield Robert B. , Patrucco Andrea S. , Wu Zhaohui , Yukins Christopher , Slaughter Tanner
Published: May 2023

Using primary data collected from interviews with federal and state government officials and secondary data related to PPE distribution and state healthcare statistics, we discovered evidence that the use of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to distribute personal protective equipment to state and local agencies in need during the height of COVID‐19 was indeed poorly designed to cope with the COVID‐19 emergency, leaving many states with shortages of badly needed medical supplies. As a result, many states struggled to organize an uncoordinated procurement response—which we suggest is due to federalism issues. To overcome federalism challenges and increase future disaster preparedness, we recommend four necessary reforms to the SNS that include (1) the incorporation of uncompensated industry experts into SNS administration, (2) the provision of an emergency production board for times of crisis, (3) elevated political leadership for the SNS, (4) improvement of federal‐state supply chain governance.
Affine Noetherian algebras and extensions of the base field II
Authors: Passman D. S. , Small L. W.
Published: May 2023

The paper written many years ago by Resco and Small, constructed an example in prime characteristic of a finitely generated Noetherian ‐algebra that does not necessarily remain Noetherian under field extensions. After this work was completed, Yuri Medvedev, then at the University of Ottawa, visited Resco at the University of Oklahoma, read the paper, and suggested an approach using Jordan algebras that would yield a similar example in characteristic 0. This was announced in the paper by Resco and Small, but to our knowledge the details were never published nor even entirely verified. We take the opportunity to do this now, but stress that the key sequence and its relevant properties are due to Medvedev. Also, Resco suggested avoiding Jordan algebras and working directly and ring theoretically with the exterior algebra. This is the approach we take.
Bioengineered perfused human brain microvascular networks enhance neural progenitor cell survival, neurogenesis, and maturation
Authors: Winkelman Max A. , Dai Guohao
Published: May 2023

Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) have the capability to self-renew and differentiate into neurons and glial cells. In the adult brain, NPCs are found near brain microvascular networks (BMVNs) in specialized microenvironments called the neurovascular niche (NVN). Although several in vitro NVN models have been previously reported, most do not properly recapitulate the intimate cellular interactions between NPCs and perfused brain microvessels. Here, we developed perfused BMVNs composed of primary human brain endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes within microfluidic devices. When induced pluripotent stem cell–derived NPCs were introduced into BMVNs, we found that NPC survival, neurogenesis, and maturation were enhanced. The application of flow during BMVN coculture was also beneficial for neuron differentiation. Collectively, our work highlighted the important role of BMVNs and flow in NPC self-renewal and neurogenesis, as well as demonstrated our model’s potential to study the biological and physical interactions of human NVN in vitro.
Phosphorylation-dependent recognition of diverse protein targets by the cryptic GK domain of MAGI MAGUKs
Authors: Zhang Meng , Cao Aili , Lin Lin , Chen Ying , Shang Yuan , Wang Chao , Zhang Mingjie , Zhu Jinwei
Published: May 2023

Dynamic signal transduction requires the rapid assembly and disassembly of signaling complexes, often mediated by phosphoprotein binding modules. The guanylate kinase-like (GK) domain of the membrane-associated guanylate kinases (MAGUKs) is such a module orchestrating signaling at cellular junctions. The MAGI subfamily of MAGUKs contains a truncated GK domain with unknown structure and function, although they participate in diverse physiological and pathological processes. Here, we demonstrate that the truncated GK domain of MAGI2 interacts with its adjacent PDZ0 domain to form a structural supramodule capable of recognizing phosphoproteins. A conserved phosphorylation-dependent binding motif for PDZ0-GK is delineated, which leads to identification of a set of previously unknown binding partners. We explore the structure and function of the MAGI2-target complex with an inhibitory peptide derived from the consensus motif. Our work reveals an action mechanism of the cryptic MAGI GKs and broadens our understanding of the target recognition rules of phosphoprotein binding modules.
Dodecamer assembly of a metazoan AAA
+
chaperone couples substrate extraction to refolding
Authors: Gupta Arpit , Lentzsch Alfred M. , Siegel Alex , Yu Zanlin , Chio Un Seng , Cheng Yifan , Shan Shu-ou
Published: May 2023

Ring-forming AAA
+
chaperones solubilize protein aggregates and protect organisms from proteostatic stress. In metazoans, the AAA
+
chaperone Skd3 in the mitochondrial intermembrane space (IMS) is critical for human health and efficiently refolds aggregated proteins, but its underlying mechanism is poorly understood. Here, we show that Skd3 harbors both disaggregase and protein refolding activities enabled by distinct assembly states. High-resolution structures of Skd3 hexamers in distinct conformations capture ratchet-like motions that mediate substrate extraction. Unlike previously described disaggregases, Skd3 hexamers further assemble into dodecameric cages in which solubilized substrate proteins can attain near-native states. Skd3 mutants defective in dodecamer assembly retain disaggregase activity but are impaired in client refolding, linking the disaggregase and refolding activities to the hexameric and dodecameric states of Skd3, respectively. We suggest that Skd3 is a combined disaggregase and foldase, and this property is particularly suited to meet the complex proteostatic demands in the mitochondrial IMS.
When crystals flow
Authors: Tu Chien-Hua , Steinhart Martin , Berger Rüdiger , Kappl Michael , Butt Hans-Jürgen , Floudas George
Published: May 2023

Semicrystalline polymers are solids that are supposed to flow only above their melting temperature. By using confinement within nanoscopic cylindrical pores, we show that a semicrystalline polymer can flow at temperatures below the melting point with a viscosity intermediate to the melt and crystal states. During this process, the capillary force is strong and drags the polymer chains in the pores without melting the crystal. The unexpected enhancement in flow, while preserving the polymer crystallites, is of importance in the design of polymer processing conditions applicable at low temperatures, e.g., cold drawn polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene, self-healing, and in nanoconfined donor/acceptor polymers used in organic electronics.
Manipulating Fermentation Pathways in the Hyperthermophilic Archaeon
Pyrococcus furiosus
for Ethanol Production up to 95°C Driven by Carbon Monoxide Oxidation
Authors: Lipscomb Gina L. , Crowley Alexander T. , Nguyen Diep M. N. , Keller Matthew W. , O’Quinn Hailey C. , Tanwee Tania N. N. , Vailionis Jason L. , Zhang Ke , Zhang Ying , Kelly Robert M. , Adams Michael W. W.
Published: May 2023

Previously, the highest temperature for biological ethanol production was 85°C. Here, we have engineered ethanol production at 95°C by the hyperthermophilic archaeon
Pyrococcus furiosus
.
Mucins Shed from the Laminated Layer in Cystic Echinococcosis Are Captured by Kupffer Cells via the Lectin Receptor Clec4F
Authors: Barrios Anabella A. , Mouhape Camila , Schreiber Leonard , Zhang Linyun , Nell Juliane , Suárez-Martins Mariana , Schlapp Geraldine , Meikle María Noel , Mulet Ana Paula , Hsu Tsui-Ling , Hsieh Shie-Liang , Mourglia-Ettlin Gustavo , González Carlos , Crispo Martina , Barth Thomas F. E. , Casaravilla Cecilia , Jenkins Stephen J. , Díaz Álvaro
Published: May 2023

Cystic echinococcosis is caused by the larval stages (hydatids) of cestode parasites belonging to the species cluster
Echinococcus granulosus
sensu lato
, with
E. granulosus
sensu stricto
being the main infecting species. Hydatids are bladderlike structures that attain large sizes within various internal organs of livestock ungulates and humans.
The Host Protein CAD Regulates the Replication of FMDV through the Function of Pyrimidines’
De Novo
Synthesis
Authors: Yang Pu , Yuan Yuncong , Sun Yidan , Lv Bonan , Du Hang , Zhou Zhou , Yang Zhuang , Liu Xuemei , Duan Huimin , Shen Chao
Published: May 2023

Foot-and-mouth disease virus is an animal virus of the
Picornaviridae
family that seriously harms the development of animal husbandry and foreign trade of related products, and there is still a lack of effective means to control its harm. Replication complexes would generate during FMDV replication to ensure efficient replication cycles. 2C is a common viral protein in the replication complex of
Picornaviridae
virus, which is thought to be an essential component of membrane rearrangement and viral replication complex formation.
The Reovirus σ1 Attachment Protein Influences the Stability of Its Entry Intermediate
Authors: Garcia Maximiliano L. , Danthi Pranav
Published: May 2023

Reovirus particles are comprised of eight proteins. Among them, the reovirus σ1 protein functions engages cellular receptors. σ1 also influences the stability of an entry intermediate called ISVP.
Metagenome-Assembled Genomes from Photo-Oxidized and Nonoxidized Oil-Degrading Marine Microcosms
Authors: Barnes Shelby J. , Althouse Raven C. , Costa Bianca F. , Hu Boyan , Kovalev Maxim , Kulik Timur , Lee Yu-Tung , Moore Meredith C. , Peng Emily , Pook Jing Yao , Sharma Akshita , Wood Celia , Webb Eric A. , Sterling Hannah , Aeppli Christoph , Thrash J. Cameron
Published: May 2023

We performed deep metagenomic sequencing on hydrocarbon-degrading marine microcosms designed to experimentally determine the effect of photo-oxidation on oil biodegradation dynamics. Assembly, binning, and dereplication yielded 73 unique metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from 6 phyla, of which 61 are predicted to be over 90% complete.
Sporadic Hepatitis A Virus PCR False-Positive Results Observed during Reflex Testing of Serum Samples Previously Tested for Anti-HAV Antibodies and Caused by Contamination with HAV RNA Present in the Reagents of the Commercial Anti-HAV Immunoassay
Authors: Lunar Maja M. , Markočič Petra , Fujs Komloš Kristina , Štamol Tina , Poljak Mario
Published: May 2023

We present the first report of sporadic HAV PCR false-positive results that have been observed during the reflex testing of serum samples that have previously been tested for anti-HAV antibodies and have been caused by contamination with HAV RNA that is present in the reagents of the commercial anti-HAV immunoassay, with potentially serious clinical consequences. Although HAV RNA was consistently detected in the anti-HAV reagents of all three automated immunoassay analyzers that were in use in our laboratory, only the use of one analyzer and the corresponding commercial anti-HAV immunoassay reagents resulted in contamination that led to false positive HAV RNA results, and this was due to a peculiar pipetting mode of action in which the analyzer uses a single pipette tip to collect both anti-HAV reagents and a sample, which consequently causes the permanent contamination of the original sample with HAV RNA.
Ability of the MeltPro MTB/PZA Assay to Detect Susceptibility to Pyrazinamide in Rifampin-Resistant Tuberculosis Patients
Authors: Li Rong , Li Yang , Chen Xinchang , Jia Lina , Yu Hongying , Huang Ya , Wu Qianhong , Xiao Mingying , Ge Shijia , Zhang Yilin , Feng Zhen , Li Qingge , Xu Ye , Shi Wenzhi , Sun Feng , Zhang Wenhong
Published: May 2023

This study evaluated the accuracy of the MeltPro MTB/PZA assay at detecting the presence of PZA resistance through registered clinical trials. Compared to DNA sequencing, the assay had high sensitivity and negative predictive value, suggesting its potential utility as a screening tool in clinical practice.
Erratum to: A New Species of Golden Loach (genus Sabanejewia, Cobitidae) from the Sea of Azov Basin
Authors: Vasil’eva E. D. , Vasil’ev V. P.
Published: May 2023

The article “A New Species of Golden Loach (genus Sabanejewia, Cobitidae) from the Sea of Azov Basin”, written by E. D. Vasil’eva and V. P. Vasil’ev, was originally published Online First in Springer-Link on March 03, 2023 without Open Access. After publication, the authors decided to make the article an Open Access publication. Therefore, the copyright of the article has been changed to © The Author(s) 2022 and the article is forthwith distributed under the terms of a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/, CC BY), which permits use, duplication, adaptation, distribution and reproduction of a work in any medium or format, as long as you cite the original author(s) and publication source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license, and indicate if changes were made.
Airway management in paediatric emergencies outside of an intensive care setting: a quality improvement project using Lean/Six Sigma methodology
Authors: Pope Jamie , Boyle Jennifer , Worrall Mark
Published: May 2023

Use of a Lean/Six Sigma methodology in a quality improvement project to reduce variation and improve safety in airway management outside of the intensive care environment in a tertiary paediatric hospital.
Effects of a 16-week home-based exercise training programme on health-related quality of life, functional capacity, and persistent symptoms in survivors of severe/critical COVID-19: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Longobardi Igor , Goessler Karla , de Oliveira Júnior Gersiel Nascimento , Prado Danilo Marcelo Leite do , Santos Jhonnatan Vasconcelos Pereira , Meletti Matheus Molina , de Andrade Danieli Castro Oliveira , Gil Saulo , Boza João Antonio Spott de Oliveira , Lima Fernanda Rodrigues , Gualano Bruno , Roschel Hamilton
Published: May 2023

Background

Long-lasting effects of COVID-19 may include cardiovascular, respiratory, skeletal muscle, metabolic, psychological disorders and persistent symptoms that can impair health-related quality of life (HRQoL). We investigated the effects of a home-based exercise training (HBET) programme on HRQoL and health-related outcomes in survivors of severe/critical COVID-19.

Methods

This was a single-centre, single-blinded, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial. Fifty survivors of severe/critical COVID-19 (5±1 months after intensive care unit discharge) were randomly allocated (1:1) to either a 3 times a week (~60–80 min/session), semi-supervised, individualised, HBET programme or standard of care (CONTROL). Changes in HRQoL were evaluated through the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey, and physical component summary was predetermined as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included cardiorespiratory fitness, pulmonary function, functional capacity, body composition and persistent symptoms. Assessments were performed at baseline and after 16 weeks of intervention. Statistical analysis followed intention-to-treat principles.

Results

After the intervention, HBET showed greater HRQoL score than CONTROL in the physical component summary (estimated mean difference, EMD: 16.8 points; 95% CI 5.8 to 27.9; effect size, ES: 0.74), physical functioning (EMD: 22.5 points, 95% CI 6.1 to 42.9, ES: 0.83), general health (EMD: 17.4 points, 95% CI 1.8 to 33.1, ES: 0.73) and vitality (EMD: 15.1 points, 95% CI 0.2 to 30.1, ES: 0.49) domains. 30-second sit-to-stand (EMD: 2.38 reps, 95% CI 0.01 to 4.76, ES: 0.86), and muscle weakness and myalgia were also improved in HBET compared with CONTROL (p<0.05). No significant differences were seen in the remaining variables. There were no adverse events.

Conclusion

HBET is an effective and safe intervention to improve physical domains of HRQoL, functional capacity and persistent symptoms in survivors of severe/critical COVID-19.

Trial registration number

NCT04615052.
Key characteristics of patient complexity and patient complexity conceptual models/measurement tools: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Mutai Rieko , Sugiyama Yoshifumi , Aoki Takuya , Matsushima Masato
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The social determinants of health have been gaining recognition, confirming that multidimensional biopsychosocial assessment is essential to improving the health of individuals. This trend has led to the development of conceptual models and measurement tools assessing ‘patient complexity’, understood as a complex interplay of biopsychosocial factors, to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of care; however, the variety of meanings encompassed by the term has led to confusion in the interpretation of patient complexity such that there is no consensus regarding the definition or conceptualisation of patient complexity. The primary objective of this scoping review is to identify and map what is known about the key characteristics of patient complexity through multiple database searches.

Methods and analysis

This study will follow an established framework for conducting scoping reviews. The data will be extracted through searches of MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, PsycINFO, The Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. Included articles will have: investigated participants aged 19 years or older, with any health condition; described patient complexity, a model for patient complexity, or a measurement tool for patient complexity; and been published in English from 1 January 1970 to April 2022. Article selection and data extraction will be conducted independently by two reviewers and if necessary for consensus, a third reviewer. A descriptive summary will be prepared to explain how the results apply to the scoping review questions. The findings will be a detailed mapping of the health dimensions that emerge from the classification of the extracted data. Subsequently, a definition of patient complexity will be developed.

Ethics and dissemination

This review does not require ethical approval, as we will use publicly available data. The study findings will be disseminated through a relevant conference presentation and a peer-reviewed journal. This protocol is registered on the Open Science Framework (www.osf.io/hpa3c).
Lung cancer mortality in the wake of the changing smoking epidemic: a descriptive study of the global burden in 2020 and 2040
Authors: Wéber András , Morgan Eileen , Vignat Jerome , Laversanne Mathieu , Pizzato Margherita , Rumgay Harriet , Singh Deependra , Nagy Péter , Kenessey István , Soerjomataram Isabelle , Bray Freddie
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer death in 2020, responsible for almost one in five (18.0%) deaths. This paper provides an overview of the descriptive epidemiology of LC based on national mortality estimates for 2020 from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and in the context of recent tobacco control policies.

Design and setting

For this descriptive study, age-standardised mortality rates per 100 000 person-years of LC for 185 countries by sex were obtained from the GLOBOCAN 2020 database and stratified by Human Development Index (HDI). LC deaths were projected to 2040 based on demographic changes alongside scenarios of annually increasing, stable or decreasing rates from the baseline year of 2020.

Results

LC mortality rates exhibited marked variations by geography and sex. Low HDI countries, many of them within sub-Saharan Africa, tend to have low levels of mortality and an upward trend in LC deaths is predicted for both sexes until 2040 according to demographic projections, irrespective of trends in rates. In very high HDI countries, including Europe, Northern America and Australia/New Zealand, there are broadly decreasing trends in men whereas in women, rates are still increasing or reaching a plateau.

Conclusion

The current and future burden of LC in a country or region largely depends on the present trajectory of the smoking epidemic in its constituent populations, with distinct gender differences in smoking patterns, both in transitioning and transitioned countries. Further elevations in LC mortality are expected worldwide, raising important social and political questions, especially in low-income and middle-income countries.
Prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern and multidrug resistance of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureusisolated from clinical samples at a tertiary care teaching hospital: an observational, cross-sectional study from the Himalayan country, Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Prashant , Basyal Deepak , Rai Junu Richhinbung , Bharati Laxman , Budthapa Arjun , Gharti Kul Prasad , Sah Shiv Kumar
Published: May 2023

Objective

We sought to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) isolated from the clinical samples at a tertiary care hospital in Nepal.

Methods

Cross-sectional, observational study design.

Study setting

The study was carried out at a tertiary care facility, the largest public hospital, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Nepal.

Participants

A total of 7433 clinical samples from hospital inpatients and outpatients available in the TUTH microbiology laboratory were examined. The study included clinical samples from the patients of either sex and across all age groups that had been clinically determined to haveS. aureusinfections.

Results

Of 7433 clinical samples analysed,S. aureuswas recovered from 499 (6.71%). The prevalence of MRSA was discovered to be 26.4% (95% CI 21.6% to 30.4%). The major sources of MRSA were pus, 71 (18.5%). MRSA isolates encountered 100% resistance to penicillin and cloxacillin, followed by ciprofloxacin (80.5%), erythromycin (79.8%), cephalexin (64.9%), cotrimoxazole (61.1%) and clindamycin (58.5%). Chloramphenicol (17.9%), and gentamicin (27.4%), on the other hand, exhibited minimal resistance. None of the isolates were resistant to vancomycin (0.0%). Prevalence of multidrug resistance (MDR) was markedly higher in MRSA, 94.05% (95% CI 89.4% to 98.6%), compared with methicillin-sensitiveS. aureus, 52.12% (95% CI 46.2% to 57.8%).

Conclusion

Our study indicated a high rate of MRSA and MDR-SA (Multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) prevalence in a Nepalese tertiary care hospital. Therefore, given the widespread burden of MRSA and the threat of the emergence of resistance to commonly used antibiotics, there is a need for the development, adoption and enforcement of appropriate control policies in these hospital settings. Regular surveillance, reporting mechanism as well as prudent use of antimicrobial agents are crucial to combating the progression of MDR-MRSA prevalence and antibiotic resistance.
Determining key clinical predictors for chronic ankle instability and return to sports with cost of illness analysis: protocol of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Wagemans Jente , Taeymans Jan , Kuppens Kevin , Baur Heiner , Bleakley Chris , Vissers Dirk
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Ankle sprains are common in sports and the general population. Although considered innocuous, a large proportion has residual complaints such as recurrent ankle sprains and develop chronic ankle instability. Although some predicting factors are identified, there is no unequivocality regarding the development of chronic ankle instability, nor about the optimal rehabilitation for an acute ankle sprain. Alongside the biomechanical impairments, ankle sprains are a burden on society due to substantial economic costs. Therefore, we aim to identify key clinical predictors of chronic ankle instability or recovery after acute lateral ankle sprain. Additionally, we aim to determine cost-of-illness of patients who developed chronic ankle instability.

Methods and analysis

This prospective cohort study (Clinicaltrials.gov:NCT05637008- pre-results) aims to recruit adult (18–55 years) patients with an acute lateral ankle sprain who are active in sports. Clinical assessments and patient-reported outcome measures will be used to collect data at 7–14 days, 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 12 months after enrolment in the study. The primary outcome will be chronic ankle instability at 12-month follow-up. Salient outcomes will be analysed by logistic regression to determine association with the development of chronic ankle instability. Participants will fill in a cost diary containing direct and indirect costs related to their injury.

Ethics and disseminations

The ethical committee of the Antwerp University Hospital (B3002022000138) has given approval of the protocol and consent forms on 10 October 2022. We perform this study according to the Helsinki Declaration. We will present results at conferences or webinars and publish in peer-reviewed articles.

NCT05637008.
Applying dyadic digital psychological interventions for reducing caregiver burden in the illness context: a systematic review and a meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Semonella Michelle , Bertuzzi Vanessa , Dekel Rachel , Andersson Gerhard , Pietrabissa Giada , Vilchinsky Noa
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Providing informal care to one’s romantic partner who is ill may become a highly distressing and demanding task. Based on the innovative dyadic coping model, several support interventions have been developed to alleviate informal caregivers’ burden, including both caregivers’ and care receivers’ needs. Considering the unique challenges characterising the caregiving phenomenon, such as geographical barriers and time restrictions, digital solutions should be considered. However, there is a lack of research examining the effectiveness of dyadic digital solutions. Thus, this review aims to examine the existing literature on the efficacy of dyadic digital psychological interventions designed for caregivers and their care-receivers couples within the illness context.

Methods and analysis

Randomised controlled trials targeting caregivers’ burden among dyads of informal caregivers and care receivers will be identified via an electronic search of the following databases: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Cinhal, Scopus, PsycINFO, MEDLINE and supplemented by hand searching of previous systematic reviews. The search will be undertaken following the PICO (population, intervention, comparison and outcome) elements. If possible, a meta-analysis will be conducted to examine: (1) the effectiveness of dyadic digital psychological interventions for reducing caregivers’ burden (primary outcome) among caregivers who are in a romantic relationship with the care receivers; (2) the effectiveness of dyadic digital psychological interventions on secondary outcomes such as anxiety, depression, stress, quality of life, well-being and self-efficacy among caregivers and care receivers; and (3) moderating effects of clinical and methodological factors on caregivers’ burden. Prior to inclusion in the review, retrieved papers will be critically appraised by two independent reviewers. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool will assess the risk of bias for randomised controlled trials.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as no primary data will be collected. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at academic conferences and lay summaries for various stakeholders.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022299125.
Prenatal iodine supplementation and early childhood neurodevelopment: the PoppiE trial – study protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled trial
Authors: Best Karen P , Gould Jacqueline F , Makrides Maria , Sullivan Thomas , Cheong Jeanie , Zhou Shao J , Kane Stefan , Safa Huda , Sparks A , Doyle Lex W , McPhee A J , Nippita Tanya A C , Afzali Hossein H A , Grivell Rosalie , Mackerras D , Knight E , Wood Simon , Green Tim
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Observational studies suggest both low and high iodine intakes in pregnancy are associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. This raises concern that current universal iodine supplement recommendations for pregnant women in populations considered to be iodine sufficient may negatively impact child neurodevelopment. We aim to determine the effect of reducing iodine intake from supplements for women who have adequate iodine intake from food on the cognitive development of children at 24 months of age.

Methods and analysis

A multicentre, randomised, controlled, clinician, researcher and participant blinded trial with two parallel groups. Using a hybrid decentralised clinical trial model, 754 women (377 per group) less than 13 weeks’ gestation with an iodine intake of ≥165 µg/day from food will be randomised to receive either a low iodine (20 µg/day) multivitamin and mineral supplement or an identical supplement containing 200) µg/day (amount commonly used in prenatal supplements in Australia), from enrolment until delivery. The primary outcome is the developmental quotient of infants at 24 months of age assessed with the Cognitive Scale of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, fourth edition. Secondary outcomes include infant language and motor development; behavioural and emotional development; maternal and infant clinical outcomes and health service utilisation of children. Cognitive scores will be compared between groups using linear regression, with adjustment for location of enrolment and the treatment effect described as a mean difference with 95% CI.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted from the Women’s and Children’s Health Network Research Ethics Committee (HREC/17/WCHN/187). The results of this trial will be presented at scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

NCT04586348.
Routine antibiotics for infants less than 6 months of age with growth failure/faltering: a systematic review
Authors: Imdad Aamer , Chen Fanny F , François Melissa , Sana Momal , Tanner-Smith Emily , Smith Abigail , Tsistinas Olivia , Das Jai K , Bhutta Zulfiqar Ahmed
Published: May 2023

Objective

This systematic review commissioned by WHO aimed to synthesise evidence from current literature on the effects of systematically given, routine use of antibiotics for infants under 6 months of age with growth failure/faltering.

Settings

Low-income and middle-income countries.

Participants

The study population was infants less than 6 months of age with growth failure/faltering.

Intervention

The intervention group was infants who received no antibiotics or antibiotics other than those recommended in 2013 guidelines by WHO to treat childhood severe acute malnutrition. The comparison group was infants who received antibiotics according to the aforementioned guidelines.

Primary and secondary outcomes

The primary outcome was all-cause mortality, and secondary outcomes: clinical deterioration, antimicrobial resistance, recovery from comorbidity, adverse events, markers of intestinal inflammation, markers of systemic inflammation, hospital-acquired infections and non-response. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was considered to report the overall evidence quality for an outcome.

Results

We screened 5137 titles and abstracts and reviewed the full text of 157 studies. None of the studies from the literature search qualified to answer the question for this systematic review.

Conclusions

There is a paucity of evidence on the routine use of antibiotics for the treatment of malnutrition in infants less than 6 months of age. Future studies with adequate sample sizes are needed to assess the potential risks and benefits of antibiotics in malnourished infants under 6 months of age.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021277073.