bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motivations for social withdrawal and academic adjustment in emerging adulthood
Authors: McVarnock Alicia M. , Closson Leanna M.
Published: April 2022

While social withdrawal in childhood is typically associated with lower academic functioning, little is known about how motivations for social withdrawal may be connected to academic adjustment in emerging adulthood. The purpose of the present study was to examine associations between social withdrawal motivations (i.e., shyness, avoidance and unsociability) and indices of academic adjustment, including academic achievement (i.e., grade point average [GPA]) and academic motivation (i.e., intrinsic value, self‐efficacy and test anxiety), while accounting for gender and conscientiousness. Participants were 623 emerging adults between the ages of 18 and 25 (Mage = 20.15, SD = 1.67; 79% female) who were currently attending university. Hierarchical regression results showed that shyness was negatively associated with intrinsic value and self‐efficacy. Whereas shyness was positively associated with test anxiety, avoidance was negatively associated with test anxiety. Social withdrawal motivations were not associated with GPA. The findings suggest that some motivations for social withdrawal play a role in university students’ academic motivation, but not their academic achievement.
Persistent symptoms of fatigue, neuropathy and role‐functioning impairment among indolent non‐Hodgkin lymphoma survivors: A longitudinal PROFILES registry study
Authors: Ekels Afke , van de Poll‐Franse Lonneke V. , Posthuma Eduardus F. M. , Kieffer Jacobien , Issa Djamila E. , Koster Adrianus , Nijziel Marten R. , Pruijt Johannes H. F. M. , Stevens Wendy B. C. , Tick Lidwine W. , Oerlemans Simone
Published: April 2022

Little is known about the long‐term health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and persistence of symptoms among patients with indolent non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL). This large population‐based longitudinal study therefore investigated the long‐term HRQoL and persistence of symptoms and identified associated sociodemographic, clinical and psychological factors. Patients diagnosed between 1999 and 2014 and four or more months after diagnosis were invited to participate in a longitudinal survey. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. The EORTC QLQ‐C30 and CLL‐16 were completed by 669 patients (74% response rate). Patients completed on average four questionnaires. Primary treatment was active surveillance (52%), systemic therapy (31%) or radiotherapy (13%). Respectively, 36% reported persistent fatigue, 33% persistent neuropathy and 25% persistent role‐functioning impairment. This was 2–3 times higher than in the age‐ and sex‐matched normative population. Up to 10 years after diagnosis, scores remained relatively stable without clinically relevant changes. Comorbidities, psychological distress, shorter time since diagnosis, systemic therapy, younger age, education level and having no partner were associated with worse outcomes (all ps < 0.05). Up to a third of patients with iNHL experience long‐term persistent symptoms which do not improve over time. Early recognition of symptoms will help in providing tailored supportive care for those in need.
Preventive behaviours during the pandemic: The role of collective rituals, emotional synchrony, social norms and moral obligation
Authors: Zlobina Anna , Dávila María Celeste
Published: April 2022

The present research focuses on the role of collective, social influence and intraindividual processes in shaping preventive behaviours during the COVID‐19 pandemic. In two correlational studies conducted in Spain, we explored the impact of participation in the ritual of collective applause (carried out daily for over 70 days during the lockdown) and perceived social norms in fostering behavioural adherence to public health measures, as well as the mediating role of perceived emotional synchrony and a sense of moral obligation. The first study (general population,N = 528) was conducted in June 2020, just after the end of the lockdown, and the second study (students,N = 292) was carried out eight months later. The results of the structural equations modelling (SEM) consistently confirmed that active participation in collective applause was linked to more intense emotional synchrony and indirectly predicted self‐reported preventive behaviour. Perceived social norms predicted self‐reported behavioural compliance directly and also indirectly, via feelings of moral obligation. The discussion addresses some meaningful variations in the results and also focuses on the implications of the findings for both theory and psychosocial intervention.
Glycoprotein NMB promotes tumor formation and malignant progression of laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Manevich Lev , Okita Yukari , Okano Yasuhito , Sugasawa Takehito , Kawanishi Kunio , Poullikkas Thanasis , Dang Cao Linda T. L. , Zheng Ling , Nakayama Masahiro , Matsumoto Shin , Tabuchi Keiji , Kato Mitsuyasu
Published: April 2022

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), although one of the most common head and neck cancers, has a static or slightly decreased survival rate because of difficulties in early diagnosis, lack of effective molecular targeting therapy, and severe dysfunction after radical surgical treatments. Therefore, a novel therapeutic target is crucial to increase treatment efficacy and survival rates in these patients. Glycoprotein NMB (GPNMB), whose role in LSCC remains elusive, is a type 1 transmembrane protein involved in malignant progression of various cancers, and its high expression is thought to be a poor prognostic factor. In this study, we showed that GPNMB expression levels in LSCC samples are significantly higher than those in normal tissues, and GPNMB expression is observed mostly in growth‐arrested cancer cells. Furthermore, knockdown of GPNMB reduces monolayer cellular proliferation, cellular migration, and tumorigenic growth, while GPNMB protein displays an inverse relationship with Ki‐67 levels. Therefore, we conclude that GPNMB may be an attractive target for future LSCC therapy.
Developmental referrals of pre‐school children in a diverse community in England: The importance of parental migration for referral rates
Authors: Allport Tom , Ambrose Alissamaryam , Collin Simon M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Children born to migrant parents have higher rates of language difficulties, intellectual disability and autism. This study explores the relationship between migration, ethnicity and reasons for early years referrals to community paediatrics in a diverse multi‐cultural population in a city in south west England.

Methods

Observational retrospective study from a community paediatric service serving a multi‐cultural urban population from June 2012 to February 2016. We tested associations of ethnicity and parental birth origin with reason for referral (developmental or non‐developmental) for children under 5 years old and estimated crude rate ratios for referrals using population census data.

Results

Data were available for 514 children (52% white or mixed race, 16% Asian, 21% African diaspora, and 11.5% Somali); 53% had two UK‐born parents while 22% had two migrant (non‐UK‐born) parents. Referrals were for developmental reasons in 307 (60%) including 86 for possible autism. Parental birth origin and ethnicity were associated with reason for referral (p < 0.001). Children from African diaspora, Asian or Somali backgrounds had more than twice the rate (rate ratio [RR] 2.37, 95% CI 1.88–2.99, p < 0.001) of developmental referrals compared with white or mixed‐race children. Children of Somali or African diaspora ethnicity were, respectively, six‐times (RR 5.99, 95% CI 3.24–10.8, p < 0.001) and four times (RR 4.23, 95% CI 2.44–7.29, p < 0.001) more likely to be referred for possible autism spectrum than their white or mixed‐race peers. Developmental referral as a proportion of all referrals was twice as high among children with one migrant parent (20.4%) and three times as high among children with two migrant parents (29.5%), compared with children whose parents were both UK‐born (10.7%).

Conclusions

This study supports the importance of ethnicity and parental migration as factors in young children experiencing developmental difficulties, especially concerns about social communication or autism.
“So, like, it’s all a mix of one”: Intersecting contexts of adolescents’ ethnic‐racial socialization
Authors: Sladek Michael R. , Umaña‐Taylor Adriana J. , Hardesty Jennifer L. , Aguilar Gladys , Bates David , Bayless Sara Douglass , Gomez Elisa , Hur Connie K. , Ison Ashley , Jones Shandra , Luo Hua , Satterthwaite‐Freiman Megan , Vázquez Michael A.
Published: April 2022

Cultural‐ecological theories posit that ethnic‐racial identity (ERI) development is shaped by transactions between contexts of ethnic‐racial socialization, yet research considering intersections among multiple contexts is limited. In this study, Black, Latino, White, and Asian American adolescents (N = 98; Mage = 16.26, SD = 1.09; 55.1% female identifying) participated in surveys and focus group discussions (2013–2014) to share insights into ERI development in context. Using consensual qualitative research, results indicated: (a) family ethnic‐racial socialization intersects with community‐based, peer, media, and school socialization; (b) ethnic‐racial socialization occurs outside family through intersections between peer, school, community‐based, and media settings; and (c) ethnic‐racial socialization is embedded within systems of racial oppression across contexts. Discussion includes implications for future research and interventions supporting youth ERI.
A cross‐sectional analysis of facial palsy‐related quality of life in 125 patients: Comparing linear, quadratic and cubic regression analyses
Authors: Verhoeff Rucháma , Bruins Tessa E. , Ingels Koen J. A. O. , Werker Paul M. N. , van Veen Martinus M.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Facial function correlates with quality of life in facial palsy. Previous studies have examined a linear relationship; based on clinical experience, we hypothesize a curved regression (i.e. quadratic or cubic) will be more fitting to show the correlation between quality of life and facial function.

Methods

We compared the fit of a linear regression model between Sunnybrook scores (facial function) and FaCE and FDI scores (quality of life) to a quadratic and cubic regression model in 125 patients cross‐sectionally.

Results

A total of 125 patients were included, 53.6% female with a mean (standard deviation) age of 56.6 (16.7) and a median (interquartile range) duration of palsy of 6.6 (1.5; 18.3) years. The quadratic regression proved a significant improvement over a linear regression analysis in the model using the FaCE total score (linear R2 =.346, quadratic R2 = .378, p = .033) and the FDI physical score (linear R2 = .245, quadratic R2 =.276, p = .034). The cubic regression analysis was no significant improvement over a quadratic regression.

Discussion

The relationship between facial function and quality of life in facial palsy is not linear meaning that there is a lot of variation in QoL in cases with severe and moderate facial impairment. This is most applicable to patients suffering from post‐paralysis synkinesis, proving the highly individually experienced burden of synkinesis. As the relationship is not linear it should not be included as such in future research studies.
The relationship between the substitution position of hydrophobic groups on near‐magenta anthraquinone dyestuffs and the dyeing performance for polypropylene fabric dyed in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Miyazaki Keisuke , Hirata Toyoaki , Hirogaki Kazumasa , Tabata Isao , Hori Teruo
Published: April 2022

A series of 1‐amino‐4‐hydroxy‐2‐phenoxyanthraquinone derivatives, substituted with various hydrophobic groups, were applied as dyestuffs in the carbon dioxide supercritical fluid dyeing (SFD) of unmodified polypropylene (PP) fabrics. The dyeability, colour strength, and colour fastness of the dyeing process were evaluated for 14 dyestuffs. The hue of the PP fabrics dyed with a series of dyestuffs was red of near‐magenta, but it was slightly less bluish rather than magenta. The differences in dyeing performance regarding the type and position of the substituents were observable in terms of colour strength and colour fastness. On the basis of the evaluation of the colour strength and the colour fastness, this study showed that the type and position of the hydrophobic group attached to the substituted phenoxy ring affected dyeing performance. Comparisons of the dyeing performance of 2‐ and 4‐substituted dyestuffs with the same groups attached suggested that replacement of the 2‐position affected colour strength while 4‐position affected colour fastness. Similarly, 2,4‐disubstituted dyestuff was more suitable on the dyeing performance than 4‐monosubstituted dyestuff in which alkyl had twice the amount of aliphatic carbon at one position, and 3,5‐disubstituted dyestuff.
High intrapatient variability of tacrolimus exposure associated with poorer outcomes in liver transplantation
Authors: Dopazo Cristina , Bilbao Itxarone , García Sonia , Gómez‐Gavara Concepción , Caralt Mireia , Campos‐Varela Isabel , Castells Lluis , Hidalgo Ernest , Moreso Francisco , Montoro Bruno , Charco Ramón
Published: April 2022

Tacrolimus (TAC) is a dose‐dependent immunosuppressor with considerable intrapatient variability (IPV) in its pharmacokinetics. The aim of this work is to ascertain the association between TAC IPV at 6 months after liver transplantation (LT) and patient outcome. This single‐center cohort study retrospectively analyzed adult patients who underwent transplantation from 2015 to 2019 who survived the first 6 months with a functioning graft. The primary end point was the patient’s probability of death and the secondary outcome was the loss of renal function between month 6 and the last follow‐up. TAC IPV was estimated by calculating the coefficient of variation (CV) of the dose‐corrected concentration (C0/D) between the third and sixth months post‐LT. Of the 140 patients who underwent LT included in the study, the low‐variability group (C0/D CV < 27%) comprised 105 patients and the high‐variability group (C0/D CV ≥ 27%) 35 patients. One‐, 3‐, and 5‐year patient survival rates were 100%, 82%, and 72% in the high‐variability group versus 100%, 97%, and 93% in the low‐variability group, respectively (p = 0.005). Moreover, significant impaired renal function was observed in the high‐variability group at 1 year (69 ± 16 ml/min/1.73 m2 vs. 78 ± 16 ml/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.004) and at 2 years post‐LT (69 ± 17 ml/min/1.73 m2 vs. 77 ± 15 ml/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.03). High C0/D CV 3–6 months remained independently associated with worse survival (hazard ratio = 3.57, 95% CI = 1.32–9.67, p = 0.012) and loss of renal function (odds ratio = 3.47, 95% CI = 1.30–9.20, p = 0.01). Therefore, high IPV between the third and sixth months appears to be an early and independent predictor of patients with poorer liver transplant outcomes.
Histopathology of persistent long COVID toe: A case report
Authors: Nirenberg Michael S. , Requena Luis , Santonja Carlos , Smith Gregory T. , McClain Steve A.
Published: April 2022

During the 2020 coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) pandemic, several cutaneous lesions were identified, including pseudo‐chilblain, vesicular, urticarial, maculopapular, and livedo/necrosis. A 59‐year‐old obese man with probable COVID‐19 developed painful cyanosis with histopathologic capillary thrombosis of toes, and the cyanosis persisted for nearly 22 months. Shortly after initial exposure to family members with documented SARS‐CoV‐2, he developed upper respiratory symptoms, yet his anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody and nasal swab RT‐PCR tests were repeatedly negative. Two family members were hospitalized and one of them succumbed with documented SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia within 10 days of exposure. Biopsy specimen of the distal toe 16 weeks after initial exposure showed papillary dermal capillary thrombosis with endothelial swelling, telangiectasia, and peri‐eccrine lymphocytic infiltrates resembling pernio. Overall, this is the first case of biopsy specimen of “long COVID toe” following presumed SARS‐CoV‐2 exposure, with a demonstration of thrombotic vasculopathy, toe cyanosis, and pernio‐like pathology.
Sea temperature and habitat effects on juvenile reef fishes along a tropicalizing coastline
Authors: McCosker Erin , Stuart‐Smith Rick D. , Edgar Graham J. , Steinberg Peter D. , Vergés Adriana
Published: April 2022

Aim

Temperate marine systems globally are warming at accelerating rates, facilitating the poleward movement of warm‐water species, which are tropicalizing higher‐latitude reefs. While temperature plays a key role in structuring species distributions, less is known about how species’ early life stages are responding to warming‐induced changes in preferred nursery habitat availability. We aim to identify key ecological and environmental drivers of juvenile reef fishes’ distributions in the context of ocean warming.

Location

South‐eastern Australian coastline from 30 to 37°S.

Methods

We used a decade of underwater visual census data to uncover latitudinal distribution patterns of juvenile reef fishes and habitats across 1000 km of coastline, from subtropical to temperate latitudes. We modelled how benthic habitat cover, depth, wave exposure and sea surface temperature influence distributions of warm‐water and cool‐water juvenile reef fishes on temperate rocky reefs.

Results

We found sea surface temperature was typically the most important factor influencing densities of juvenile fishes, regardless of species’ thermal affinity or latitudinal range extent. Juveniles of tropical and subtropical range‐expanding fishes responded more strongly to warmer temperatures and lower wave exposure, while juveniles of temperate species responded more strongly to benthic habitats. Species’ responses to greater availability of temperate reef habitat‐formers such as kelp and other macroalgae contrasted, being positive for temperate and negative for tropical and subtropical juvenile fishes.

Main conclusions

The availability of both suitable habitat and sea temperatures for species’ early life stages is important considerations when predicting changes in reef fishes’ distributions in the context of ocean warming. Warming‐induced isotherm shifts and feedback loops constraining the persistence of key temperate reef habitat‐formers will favour range‐expanding tropical reef fishes colonizing higher‐latitude reefs, while disadvantaging some macroalgal‐associated resident temperate species. Such varying responses to warming‐induced environmental changes may strongly influence the structure of emerging tropicalized reef assemblages.
Perinatal adversities in tuberous sclerosis complex: Determinants and neurodevelopmental outcomes
Authors: Zhang Alexa X. D. , Liang Holan , McEwen Fiona S. , Tye Charlotte , Woodhouse Emma , Underwood Lisa , Shephard Elizabeth , Sheerin Fintan ,   Tuberous Sclerosis 2000 Study Group, Bolton Patrick F.
Published: April 2022

Aim

To examine the association between perinatal adversities and neurodevelopmental outcome in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Method

The Tuberous Sclerosis 2000 study is a prospective, longitudinal UK study of TSC. In phase 1, mutation type, TSC family history, tuber characteristics, presence of cardiac rhabdomyomas, seizure characteristics, and intellectual ability were assessed in 125 children affected with TSC (64 females, 61 males; median age 39mo, range 4–254). In phase 2, 88 participants (49 females, 39 males; median age 148mo, range 93–323) were assessed for neurodevelopmental outcomes including intellectual ability, autism spectrum disorder, and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Perinatal histories of 88 participants with TSC and 80 unaffected siblings were collected retrospectively using the Obstetric Enquiry Schedule and coded with a modified Gillberg Optimality Scale to measure levels of perinatal adversity. Data were analysed using Mann–Whitney U tests, Spearman's rank correlation, and linear regression with robust standard errors.

Results

Children with familial TSC experienced significantly greater perinatal adversity than unaffected siblings. Perinatal adversity was higher in children with TSC‐affected mothers than those with unaffected mothers. There was no significant association between perinatal adversities and neurodevelopmental outcomes after controlling for confounders.

Interpretation

Maternal TSC is a significant marker of elevated perinatal risk in addition to risks incurred by fetal genotype. Pregnancies complicated by maternal or fetal TSC require higher vigilance, and mechanisms underlying increased perinatal adversity require further research.

What this paper adds

Higher perinatal adversity is associated with familial tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Maternal TSC was associated with higher frequencies of several perinatal risk markers.

Paternal TSC was not associated with higher levels of perinatal adversity.

Perinatal adversity levels in TSC1 and TSC2 subgroups did not differ significantly.

Perinatal adversities were not associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes.
In‐home use of a hybrid closed loop achieves time‐in‐range targets in preschoolers and school children: Results from a randomized, controlled, crossover trial
Authors: von dem Berge Thekla , Remus Kerstin , Biester Sarah , Reschke Felix , Klusmeier Britta , Adolph Kerstin , Holtdirk Anette , Thomas Andreas , Kordonouri Olga , Danne Thomas , Biester Torben
Published: April 2022

Aim

To obtain additional information on the incremental differences between using a sensor‐augmented pump (SAP) without automated insulin delivery (AID), using it with predictive low‐glucose management (PLGM) or as hybrid closed loop (HCL), in preschool and school children.

Methods

We conducted a monocentric, randomized, controlled, two‐phase crossover study in 38 children aged 2‐6 and 7‐14 years. The primary endpoint was the percentage of time in range (TIR) of 70‐180 mg/dl. Other continuous glucose sensor metrics, HbA1c, patient‐related outcomes (DISABKIDS questionnaire, Fear of Hypoglycaemia Survey) and safety events were also assessed. Results from 2 weeks of SAP, 8 weeks of PLGM and 8 weeks of HCL were compared using a paired t‐test or Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

Overall, we found a high rate of TIR target (>70%) achievement with HCL in preschool (88%) and school children (50%), with average times in Auto Mode of 93% and 87%, respectively. Preschool children achieved a mean TIR of 73% ± 6% (+8% vs. SAP, +6% vs. PLGM) and school children 69% ± 8% (+15% vs. SAP and + 14% vs. PLGM). Overall, HbA1c improved from 7.4% ± 0.9% to 6.9% ± 0.5% (P = .0002). Diabetes burden and worries and fear of hypoglycaemia remained at low levels, without significant changes versus PLGM. No events of severe hypoglycaemia or diabetic ketoacidosis occurred.

Conclusions

Preschool children profit from AID at least as much as those aged 7 years and older. To ensure safe use and prescribing modalities, regulatory approval is also required for young children.
Adjusting for Ability Differences of Equating Samples When Randomization Is Suboptimal
Authors: Kim Sooyeon , Walker Michael E.
Published: April 2022

Test equating requires collecting data to link the scores from different forms of a test. Problems arise when equating samples are not equivalent and the test forms to be linked share no common items by which to measure or adjust for the group nonequivalence. Using data from five operational test forms, we created five pairs of research forms for each form, such that the equating relationship between each pair was known. Then we compared five approaches to adjusting for group nonequivalence in a situation where not only was group equivalence questionable, but the number of common items was small. We used a resampling approach to evaluate the linking accuracy of group adjustment using sample weights via minimum discriminant information adjustment (MDIA) using test takers’ collateral (demographic) information, a weak anchor of only three items, or a mix of both. Overall, the use of both sample weights via MDIA and a weak anchor produced the most accurate result, while the direct (random groups) linking method assuming group equivalence produced the least accurate result due to nontrivial bias. For all five research forms, using both collateral information and anchor items only marginally improved linking accuracy compared to using the weak anchor alone.
Susceptibility to epilepsy after traumatic brain injury is associated with preexistent gut microbiome profile
Authors: Medel‐Matus Jesus‐Servando , Lagishetty Venu , Santana‐Gomez Cesar , Shin Don , Mowrey Wenzhu , Staba Richard J. , Galanopoulou Aristea S. , Sankar Raman , Jacobs Jonathan P. , Mazarati Andrey M.
Published: April 2022

Objective

We examined whether posttraumatic epilepsy (PTE) is associated with measurable perturbations in gut microbiome.

Methods

Adult Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to lateral fluid percussion injury (LFPI). PTE was examined 7 months after LFPI, during 4‐week continuous video‐electroencephalographic monitoring. 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing was performed in fecal samples collected before LFPI/sham‐LFPI and 1 week, 1 month, and 7 months thereafter. Longitudinal analyses of alpha diversity, beta diversity, and differential microbial abundance were performed. Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were measured in fecal samples collected before LFPI by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry.

Results

Alpha diversity changed over time in both LFPI and sham‐LFPI subjects; no association was observed between alpha diversity and LFPI, the severity of post‐LFPI neuromotor impairments, and PTE. LFPI produced significant changes in beta diversity and selective changes in microbial abundances associated with the severity of neuromotor impairments. No association between LFPI‐dependent microbial perturbations and PTE was detected. PTE was associated with beta diversity irrespective of timepoint vis‐à‐vis LFPI, including at baseline. Preexistent fecal microbial abundances of four amplicon sequence variants belonging to the Lachnospiraceae family (three enriched and one depleted) predicted the risk of PTE, with area under the curve (AUC) of .73. Global SCFA content was associated with the increased risk of PTE, with AUC of .722, and with 2‐methylbutyric (depleted), valeric (depleted), isobutyric (enriched), and isovaleric (enriched) acids being the most important factors (AUC = .717). When the analyses of baseline microbial and SCFA compositions were combined, AUC to predict PTE increased to .78.

Significance

Whereas LFPI produces no perturbations in the gut microbiome that are associated with PTE, the risk of PTE can be stratified based on preexistent microbial abundances and SCFA content.
LncRNA FGD5‐AS1 enhances the proliferation and stemness of hepatocellular carcinoma cells through targeting miR‐223 and regulating the expression of ECT2 and FAT1
Authors: He Chen‐Kun , Li Zeng‐Bo , Yi Da , Zhu Xiang‐Ya , Liu Rong‐Rong , Zhang Dong‐Xin , Cao Qian , Chen Yi‐Ping
Published: April 2022

Aim

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is common and causes many deaths worldwide. The aim of this study is to explore the mechanism by which long non‐coding RNA FGD5‐AS1 regulates HCC cell proliferation and stemness.

Methods

Tumor and normal adjacent tissues were harvested from HCC patients. Real‐time quantitative reverse transcription‐PCR was applied to examine the expression of FGD5‐AS1, miR‐223, Epithelial cell transforming sequence 2 (ECT2) and FAT1. The protein levels of ECT2, FAT1, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), OCT4, CD133 and CD90 were analyzed by western blot. The localization of FGD5‐AS1 was examined by Fluorescence in situ hybridization. Cell proliferation was analyzed with CCK‐8 and colony formation assays. Spheroid formation was used for analyzing cell stemness. Gene interaction was examined by RNA immunoprecipitation and luciferase activity assays. A subcutaneous xenograft mouse model was established to analyze HCC growth and stemness in vivo. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to analyze the expression PCNA and OCT4 in subcutaneous tumors.

Results

FGD5‐AS1 was upregulated in HCC and its high expression indicated poor prognosis of patients. High expression of FGD5‐AS1 enhanced HCC cell proliferation and stemness. Knockdown of FGD5‐AS1 restrained tumor growth and stemness in mice. FGD5‐AS1 directly sponged miR‐223 and promoted the expression of ECT2 and FAT1 in HCC. Both knockdown of miR‐223 and overexpression of ECT2 and FAT1 reversed FGD5‐AS1 silencing‐mediated suppression of HCC cell proliferation and stemness.

Conclusion

FGD5‐AS1 directly sponged miR‐223 and promoted the expression of ECT2 and FAT1 in HCC, thus enhancing HCC cell proliferation and stemness. Our study identifies potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC.
Impact of early postoperative creatinine increase on mid‐term renal function after cystectomy
Authors: Beilstein Christian M , Buehler Oliver D , Furrer Marc A , Martig Lukas , Burkhard Fiona C , Wuethrich Patrick Y , Engel Dominique
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To determine whether early acute kidney injury affects mid‐term renal function, to identify risk factors for impaired mid‐term renal function, and to highlight the evolution of plasma creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate in the first 12 months after cystectomy and urinary diversion.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center retrospective observational cohort study from 2000 to 2019. We included 900 consecutive patients undergoing cystectomy and urinary diversion. Patients with incomplete data and preoperative hemodialysis were excluded. Early acute kidney injury was defined as an increase in plasma creatinine of >50% or >26.5 μmol/L within 24 h after surgery. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to model the association between risk factors and change in plasma creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate at 12 months.

Results

Early acute kidney injury was diagnosed in 183/900 patients (20.3%) and was associated with significant mid‐term plasma creatinine increase compared to preoperative value (+10.0 μmol/L [95% confidence interval −1.5, 25.0] vs +4.0 μmol/L [−7.0, 13.0]; P < 0.001). Similarly, a significant estimated glomerular filtration rate change was found (−11.2 mL/min [95% confidence interval −19.8, 0.6] vs −4.9 mL/min [−15.6, 5.3]; P < 0.001). In the linear regression model, early acute kidney injury increased creatinine at 12 months by 9.8% (estimated glomerular filtration rate: decrease by 6.2 mL/min), male sex by 12.0%. Limitations include retrospective analysis from prospectively assessed data.

Conclusions

Early acute kidney injury resulted in elevated plasma creatinine and decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate values 12 months postoperatively, albeit the clinical relevance remains questionable.
Displacement risk: Unpacking a problematic concept for disaster risk reduction
Authors: Guadagno Lorenzo , Yonetani Michelle
Published: April 2022

“Displacement risk” is increasingly central to global policy discourse on disaster risk reduction (DRR), despite its vague formulation and inconsistent use. Different understandings of displacement, its complex relationship with vulnerability, and its ambiguous role as a necessary survival strategy for people in harm's way that also creates or exacerbates risk, hinder its clear conceptualization. This limits the clarity and value of recommendations to “reduce displacement risk” for DRR. The explicit consideration of two complementary aspects of risk related to displacement could support more comprehensive, actionable discourses: (1) the “risk stemming from displacement”, that is, any negative impact people might experience due to displacement, and (2) the “risk of remaining displaced”, that is, of people being displaced for a long time. Consideration of these aspects would allow to better include protection and durable solution perspectives within DRR, integrate displacement in disaster risk and loss assessments and add value to existing DRR efforts.
Profiling hot isostatically pressed canister–wasteform interaction for Pu‐bearing zirconolite‐rich wasteforms
Authors: Dayal Pranesh , Farzana Rifat , Zhang Yingjie , Lumpkin Gregory R. , Holmes Rohan , Triani Gerry , Gregg Daniel J.
Published: April 2022

Zirconolite‐rich full ceramic wasteforms designed to immobilize Pu‐bearing wastes were produced via hot isostatic pressing (HIP) using stainless steel (SS) and nickel (Ni) HIP canisters. A detailed profiling of the elemental compositions of the major and minor phases over the canister–wasteform interaction zone was performed using scanning electron microscopy combined with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) characterization. Bulk sample analyses from regions near the center of the HIP canister were also conducted for both samples using X‐ray diffraction and SEM‐EDS. The sample with the Ni HIP canister showed almost no interaction zone with only minor diffusion of Ni from the inner wall of the canister into the near‐surface region of the wasteform. The sample with the SS HIP canister showed ∼100–120 μm of interaction zone dominated by high‐temperature Cr diffusion from canister materials to the wasteform with the Cr predominantly incorporated into the durable zirconolite phase. We also examined, for the first time, changes to the HIP canister wall thickness caused by HIPing and demonstrated that no canister wall thinning occurred. Instead, in the areas examined, the canister wall thickness was observed to increase (up to ∼20%) due to the compression occurring during the HIP cycle. Further, only sparse formation of (Cr, Mn)‐rich oxide particles were noted within the HIP canister inner wall area immediately adjacent to the ceramic material, with no evidence for reverse diffusion of ceramic materials. Though the HIP canister–wasteform interaction extends to ∼120 μm when using an SS HIP canister for the system investigated, this translates to <<1 vol.% for an industrial scale HIPed wasteform. Importantly, the HIP canister–wasteform interactions did not produce any obviously less durable phases in the wasteform or had any detrimental impact on the HIP canister properties.
Predictive growth kinetic parameters and modelled probabilities of deoxynivalenol production by Fusarium graminearum on wheat during simulated storing conditions
Authors: Pei Penggang , Xiong Ke , Wang Xiaoyi , Sun Baoguo , Zhao Zhiyao , Zhang Xin , Yu Jiabin
Published: April 2022

Aims

Mathematical models were employed to predict the growth kinetic parameters of Fusarium graminearum and the accumulation of deoxynivalenol (DON) during wheat storage as a function of different moisture contents (MCs) and temperatures.

Methods and results

The colony counting method was used to quantify F. graminearum growth under different environmental conditions, and kinetic and probability models were developed to describe the effect of different MCs and temperatures on fungal growth and DON production during wheat storage. Among the employed secondary models (Arrhenius-Davey, Gibson and Cardinal), the general polynomial best predicted the fungal growth rate under varying temperature and MC during wheat storage. According to the logistic model, DON contamination was correctly predicted in 96.5% of cases.

Conclusions

The maximum growth rate of fungi was 0.4889 ± 0.092 Log CFU g−1 day−1 at 25°C and 30% moisture according to the polynomial model. At below 17°C and ≤15% moisture, no fungal growth was observed. The probability model of toxin production showed no toxin production at less than 15% moisture (aw ≤0.76) and below 15°C.

Significance and impact of the study

This is the first application of a probability model of DON production during wheat storage, providing a reference for preventing fungal growth and mycotoxin accumulation by F. graminearum during wheat storage and guaranteeing food product safety.
Isolation and identification of mucin-degrading bacteria originated from human faeces and their potential probiotic efficacy according to host–microbiome enterotype
Authors: Yuan Heng , Zhou Junyu , Li Nanxin , Wu Xuangao , Huang Shaokai , Park Sunmin
Published: April 2022

Aim

Mucin-degrading bacteria are known to be beneficial for gut health. We aimed to isolate human-derived mucin-degrading bacteria and identify potential probiotic characteristics and their effects on the bacterial community and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production according to three different enterotypes of the host.

Methods and Results

Bacteria with mucin decomposition ability from human faeces were isolated and identified by 16S rRNA sequencing and MALDI-TOF. Heat resistance, acid resistance, antibiotic resistance, and antibacterial activity were analysed in the selected bacteria. Their adhesion capability to the Caco-2 cell was determined by scanning electron microscopy. Their ability to alter the bacterial community and SCFA production of the isolated bacteria was investigated in three enterotypes. The three isolated strains were Bifidobacterium(Bif.) animalis SPM01 (CP001606.1, 99%), Bif. longum SPM02 (NR_043437.1, 99%), and Limosilactobacillus(L.) reuteri SPM03 (CP000705.1, 99%) deposited in Korean Collection for Type Culture (KCTC-18958P). Among them, Bif. animalis exhibited the highest mucin degrading ability. They exhibited strong resistance to acidic conditions, moderate resistance to heat, and the ability to adhere tightly to Caco-2 cells. Three isolated mucin-degrading bacteria incubation increased Lactobacillus in the faecal bacteria from Bacteroides and Prevotella enterotypes. However, only L. reuteri elevated Lactobacillus in the faecal bacteria from the Ruminococcus enterotype. B. longum and B. animalis increased the α-diversity in the Ruminococcus enterotype, while their incubation with other intestinal types decreased the α-diversity. Bifidobacterium animalis and L. reuteri increased the butyric acid level in faecal bacteria from the Prevotella enterotype, and L. reuteri elevated the acetic acid level in those from the Ruminococcus enterotype. However, the overall SCFA changes were minimal.

Conclusions

The isolated mucin-degrading bacteria act as probiotics and modulate gut microbiota and SCFA production differently according to the host′s enterotypes.

Significance and Impact of Study

Probiotics need to be personalized according to the enterotypes in clinical application.
Calpain‐1 mediates vascular remodelling and fibrosis via HIF‐1α in hypoxia‐induced pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Deng Haiyan , Tian Xiaoxue , Sun Hening , Liu Huan , Lu Meili , Wang Hongxin
Published: April 2022

Calpain‐1, a calcium‐activated neutral cysteine proteases, has been reported to be involved in the formation of pulmonary hypertension. HIF‐1α, an oxygen‐sensitive transcription factor, has been reported to activate genes involved in cell proliferation and extracellular matrix recombination. This study was designed to investigate the effect of calpain‐1 in hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH) and to explore whether there is a relationship between calpain‐1 and HIF‐1α in this disease. In the hypoxia‐induced model of HPH, we found that hypoxia resulted in increased right ventricular systolic pressure, right ventricular hypertrophy, pulmonary vascular remodelling and collagen deposition in lung tissues of mice. The levels of calpain‐1 and HIF‐1α were up‐regulated in the lung tissues of hypoxia‐treated mice and pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMCs). Knock‐out of calpain‐1 restrained haemodynamic and histological changes induced by chronic hypoxia in mice, and inhibition of calpain‐1 also repressed the abnormal proliferation and migration of PASMCs. Besides, knock‐out or inhibition of calpain‐1 suppressed hypoxia‐induced expression of HIF‐1α, VEGF, PCNA, TGF‐β1, MMP2 and collagen I in vivo and in vitro. While inhibition of HIF‐1α abolished the above effects of calpain‐1. Furthermore, we found that calpain‐1 mediates the expression of HIF‐1α through NF‐κB (P65) under hypoxia conditions. In conclusion, our results suggest that calpain‐1 plays a pivotal role in hypoxia‐induced pulmonary vascular remodelling and fibrosis through HIF‐1α, providing a better understanding of the pathogenesis of HPH.
Editorial Perspective: Speaking up for developmental language disorder – the top 10 priorities for research
Authors: Kulkarni Amit A. , Chadd Katie E. , Lambert Sarah B. , Earl Gill , Longhurst Lauren M. , McKean Cristina , Hulme Charles , McGregor Karla K. , Cunniff Anna , Pagnamenta Emma , Joffe Victoria , Ebbels Susan E. , Bangera Sai , Wallinger Josephine , Norbury Courtenay F.
Published: April 2022

Developmental language disorder (DLD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions, yet is chronically underserved, with far fewer children receiving clinical services than expected from prevalence estimates, and very little research attention relative to other neurodevelopmental conditions of similar prevalence and severity. This editorial describes a research priority‐setting exercise undertaken by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, which aims to redress this imbalance. From consultations with researchers, practitioners and individuals with lived experience, 10 research priorities emerge. Our goal is to share these priorities with the wider research community, to raise awareness and encourage research collaboration to improve outcomes for young people with DLD.
Epidermal thickness in healthy humans: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lintzeri D.A. , Karimian N. , Blume‐Peytavi U. , Kottner J.
Published: April 2022

Several skin diseases are characterized by epidermal alterations affecting epidermal thickness. Reference values of epidermal thickness in healthy humans and knowledge of possible differences regarding age, sex, skin phototype, and ethnic origin are essential in research and in clinical practice. The objectives of this systematic review were to provide epidermal thickness reference values for healthy human skin and describe possible effects of measurement methods, age, sex, ethnic origin, and skin phototype. A combined search in the databases Medline and Embase, and other sources were conducted. Searches covered a period from 1946 to 3 June 2020. Included studies were primarily observational and interventional studies providing means and spread values of epidermal thickness estimates in healthy humans, with clear reporting of skin area, age, and measurement method, and optional reporting of sex, ethnic origin, and skin phototype. Data were extracted per skin area and pooled in random‐effects models. A total of 142 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and 133 in the meta‐analysis. Pooled epidermal thickness estimates were calculated for 37 skin areas. The lowest epidermal thickness of 31.2 (95% CI 27.8–34.6) μm was reported for the penis and the highest of 596.6 (95% CI 443.9–749.3) μm for the plantar aspect of the foot. Differences in epidermal thickness estimates obtained by histology, optical coherence tomography, and laser scanning microscopy were minor. High‐frequency ultrasonography produces systematically higher values. The epidermis was thinner in aged skin. Differences between sexes and among ethnic origins were minor. Epidermal thickness reference values are provided for 37 skin areas. In conclusion, the epidermis tends to become thinner by ageing and does not seem to be influenced by sex. Histology, optical coherence tomography, and laser scanning microscopy might be used interchangeably to measure epidermal thickness, whereas high‐frequency ultrasound should not be used.
Risk factors for complicated Mohs surgery in the South Sweden Mohs Cohort
Authors: Nätterdahl C. , Kappelin J. , Persson B. , Lundqvist K. , Ahnlide I. , Saleh K. , Ingvar Å.
Published: April 2022

Background

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a precise, tissue‐sparing surgical technique that offers superior cure rates compared to traditional surgical excision. However, the degree of difficulty of MMS depends on many variables, and consequently, the number of surgical stages required for each case is quite unpredictable.

Objectives

To identify risk factors for complicated MMS, defined as MMS requiring ≥3 stages.

Methods

In a cohort study design, data were prospectively collected from 612 patients that underwent MMS for basal cell carcinoma (BCC) at the Department of Dermatology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, between 2009 and 2020. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to estimate the risk of MMS requiring ≥3 stages. Due to the risk of multicollinearity between recurrent or incompletely excised BCC and previous treatments, a partially and a fully adjusted multivariate logistic regression model were constructed.

Results

In fully adjusted multivariate analyses, age (odds ratio (OR) 1.02; confidence interval (CI) 95% 1.00–1.04), previous cryotherapy (OR 2.3; CI 95% 1.1–4.8), and >1 previous surgery (OR 3.4; CI 95% 1.5–7.7) were significantly associated with risk of complicated MMS. Recurrent BCC was associated with the risk of complicated MMS in partially adjusted multivariate analyses, but not in the fully adjusted analyses. In this highly selected cohort, histopathological subtype, and tumour localization were not associated with the risk of complicated MMS.

Conclusions

Older age and tumours previously treated with cryotherapy or multiple prior surgeries increased the risk of MMS requiring ≥3 stages. Whether recurrent BCC is an independent risk factor for complicated MMS needs further evaluation. Knowledge of these risk factors may ameliorate the planning of Mohs surgeries.
Mapping ethical and social aspects of biomarker research and its application in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis: a systematic review of reason
Authors: Fritzsche M.‐Ch. , Buyx A.M. , Hangel N.
Published: April 2022

Biomarker research is associated with high hopes for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis research. Although various effective treatments have been developed, many challenges remain concerning diagnostics and the development of targeted treatments, but also regarding a number of ethical and social issues. In this paper, building on a systematic literature review and review of reason, we examine the ethical and social debate on biomarker research for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. We discuss topics such as risks and benefits of stratification of patient groups, ethical aspects of big data and advanced analytics for biomarker use in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. Our systematic literature review of reason, based on established methodological standards, includes argument‐based ethics publications and scientific literature with implicitly ethically relevant aspects. The first search of biomarker research in dermatology and adjacent fields (e.g., oncology) resulted in a large amount of literature concerning general normative aspects of biomarker research, but suggested a lack of explicit argument‐based ethical literature in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis research. We, therefore, conducted a second systematic search, focusing specifically on atopic dermatitis and psoriasis biomarker research. The 43 relevant articles identified through both systematic searches were clustered into three topic groups: (i) ethical aspects of stratification and precision medicine, (ii) digital ethics and (iii) research ethics with a focus on complexity and validation. We found that compared to other fields, such as cancer research, the ethical aspects of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis are rarely explained and addressed in detail. In particular, more work is required on scientific standards, digital ethics and responsible clinical application of biomarkers for atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, patient participation and ethical implications of biomarker use for children or young people with atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. We close with suggestions on how to address the ethical and social dimension of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis research and practice more directly in future.