bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of oncology patients with fever and invasive bacterial infections diagnosed
Authors: Gomez Borja , Almarza Fernando , López‐Almaraz Ricardo , Quintana Oriol , Mintegi Santiago
Published: August 2024

Aim

To describe the characteristics of febrile oncology patients seen in the Paediatric Emergency Department and microbiological characteristics of the invasive bacterial infections (IBIs) diagnosed.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study of febrile oncology patients seen between 2016 and 2022. We divided haematologic cancers by the aggressiveness of the chemotherapy received at the time.

Results

We included 418 episodes (272 haematologic cancers, 146 solid tumours). The median duration of fever was 2 h (interquartile range: 1–3) and 97.6% of patients were well‐appearing on arrival. We diagnosed 61 IBIs (14.6%), including six episodes of bacterial sepsis. One other episode was coded as sepsis without microbiological confirmation, yielding seven episodes overall (1.7%). Rates of IBI and sepsis were higher among patients with high‐risk haematologic cancers than those with low‐risk haematologic cancers or solid tumours (22.9%, 5.4% and 10.3%, p < 0.01; 3.4%, 0% and 0.7%, p = 0.06, respectively). Leading causes were S. epidermidis (42.6%) and E. coli (14.7%). Gram‐positive bacteria caused 67.2% of non‐septic IBIs and 50% of septic episodes.

Conclusion

Most febrile oncology patients are well‐appearing and present with a very short history of fever. Prevalence of IBI and sepsis and the main disease‐causing bacteria differ by cancer type and the presence of sepsis.
Why do perfectionists procrastinate (or not)? Exploring the interaction between perfectionism dimensions through self‐determination theory
Authors: Wang Xiao , Howard Joshua L. , Zhong Lifeng
Published: August 2024

Research on perfectionism and workplace procrastination has typically examined perfectionism through two dimensions: perfectionist strivings (PS) and perfectionist concerns (PC), which are inversely associated with procrastination. Recognizing that these two dimensions often coexist in varying degrees within individuals, our study conducted an interaction analysis to elucidate the associations between individual dimensions and their combined presence across four distinct perfectionism profiles. Based on self‐determination theory, we examined the interaction between the two dimensions on procrastination through three psychological mediators: autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and psychological distress. In a three‐wave study involving 376 employees, we observed that the associations between PS and mediators vary with the level of PC, thus responding to the contentious debate of whether PS are beneficial. Additionally, we employed a three‐way interaction analysis to explore how different profiles of perfectionism react under external performance pressure, particularly in relation to their levels of procrastination. As ambitious perfectionists (high PS, low PC) emerged as the optimal profile under stressors, our study further identified the particularly beneficial role of PS, especially in the presence of stressors. Our analyses shed new light on the relationships between trait perfectionism and workplace procrastination behavior. We discussed theoretical and practical implications.
Long‐term efficacy and safety of dose‐dense and dose‐intense ABVD without consolidation radiotherapy in patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma: A 15‐year follow‐up of the ABVDDD‐DI phase II study
Authors: Corazzelli Gaetano , Cuccaro Annarosa , Morelli Emanuela , Arcamone Manuela , De Chiara Annarosaria , Paccone Andrea , Petrillo Antonella , Ibello Francesco , Aversa Corrado , Esposito Maria , Volzone Francesco , Saggese Mariangela , Capobianco Gaetana , Sarno Sabrina , Sirica Letizia , Crisci Stefania , De Filippi Rosaria , Pinto Antonio
Published: August 2024

We demonstrated that dose‐densified and dose‐intensified ABVD (doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, dacarbazine; ABVDDD‐DI) was safe and effective. Here, we present a post hoc long‐term analysis of the 82 patients enrolled in the original study. The median observation time was 175 months (IQR 159–197). At 15 years, progression‐free and overall survival rates were 81.2% (95% CI, 69.9%–88.7%) and 92.7% (95% CI, 82.6%–97.0%), respectively. Four patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors experienced delayed G3 cardiac events. The cumulative incidence of second malignancies at 20 years was 6.1%. Fertility and childbearing potential were unaffected. Data support an ongoing benefit for ABVDDD‐DI without uneven late toxicities.
Hybridization in the Anthropocene – how pollution and climate change disrupt mate selection in freshwater fish
Authors: Ramirez‐Duarte Wilson F. , Moran Benjamin M. , Powell Daniel L. , Bank Claudia , Sousa Vitor C. , Rosenthal Gil G. , Schumer Molly , Rochman Chelsea M.
Published: August 2024

Chemical pollutants and/or climate change have the potential to break down reproductive barriers between species and facilitate hybridization. Hybrid zones may arise in response to environmental gradients and secondary contact between formerly allopatric populations, or due to the introduction of non‐native species. In freshwater ecosystems, field observations indicate that changes in water quality and chemistry, due to pollution and climate change, are correlated with an increased frequency of hybridization. Physical and chemical disturbances of water quality can alter the sensory environment, thereby affecting chemical and visual communication among fish. Moreover, multiple chemical compounds (e.g. pharmaceuticals, metals, pesticides, and industrial contaminants) may impair fish physiology, potentially affecting phenotypic traits relevant for mate selection (e.g. pheromone production, courtship, and coloration). Although warming waters have led to documented range shifts, and chemical pollution is ubiquitous in freshwater ecosystems, few studies have tested hypotheses about how these stressors may facilitate hybridization and what this means for biodiversity and species conservation. Through a systematic literature review across disciplines (i.e. ecotoxicology and evolutionary biology), we evaluate the biological interactions, toxic mechanisms, and roles of physical and chemical environmental stressors (i.e. chemical pollution and climate change) in disrupting mate preferences and inducing interspecific hybridization in freshwater fish. Our study indicates that climate change‐driven changes in water quality and chemical pollution may impact visual and chemical communication crucial for mate choice and thus could facilitate hybridization among fishes in freshwater ecosystems. To inform future studies and conservation management, we emphasize the importance of further research to identify the chemical and physical stressors affecting mate choice, understand the mechanisms behind these interactions, determine the concentrations at which they occur, and assess their impact on individuals, populations, species, and biological diversity in the Anthropocene.
Assessment of prognostic factors in patients with primary ocular adnexal lymphoma when considering competing risk elements
Authors: Zeng Jing , Cao Xian‐Fen , Chen Jian , Liu Zhi‐ping , Lyu Jun , Zhou Qing
Published: August 2024

Background

Accurate prognostic factors for primary ocular adnexal lymphoma (POAL) are scarce. Survival models and prognostic factors derived without considering competing risk factors suffer from major statistical errors. This study aimed to accurately assess prognostic factors in POAL patients using competing risk models, and compare this to the traditional COX proportional hazards model.

Methods

This retrospective study utilised data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program 2010–2015 and included patients with B‐cell POAL. The cumulative incidence function and Gray's test for cause‐specific survival were calculated as univariate analysis. The competing risk models were a Fine‐Gray subdistribution hazard model and a cause‐specific model, and a traditional COX model was employed as a multivariate analysis.

Results

This study enrolled 846 eligible patients with POAL: 60 patients (7.09%) died from POAL and 123 patients (14.54%) died from other causes. Multivariate competing risk models indicated that age, laterality, histology subtype, the 7th edition of American Joint Committee on Cancer stage T, and radiotherapy were independent predictors for cause‐specific survival of patients with POAL. There was high consistency between the two competing risk models. The COX model made several misestimations on the statistical significance and hazard ratios of prognostic factors.

Conclusions

This study established competing risk models as a method to assess POAL prognostic factors, which was more accurate than traditional methods that do not consider competing risk elements.
A survey exploring ophthalmologists' attitudes and beliefs in performing immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery in Singapore
Authors: Ng Wen Wei Victoria , Thiyagarajan Shwetha , Tan Clement , Chen David Ziyou
Published: August 2024

Background

To evaluate current practice patterns of Immediate Sequential Bilateral Cataract Surgery (ISBCS) by ophthalmologists in Singapore and assess their attitudes towards performing ISBCS in future cataract care.

Methods

An anonymised electronic survey, modified to local context from a similar study conducted in the United Kingdom, was distributed to members of the College of Ophthalmologists, Academy of Medicine, Singapore, from 20 June to 1 September 2023. An initial screening question on prior experience with ISBCS directed the rest of the survey. Questions explored ophthalmologists' current ISBCS practice patterns and the importance of factors affecting their willingness to perform ISBCS. Results were descriptively analysed.

Results

Results collated 2 months upon survey dissemination saw a total of 58 respondents from 235 eligible members (24.7% response rate). Of these, 16 (27.6%) were currently performing ISBCS, 37 (63.8%) had never performed, and 5 (8.6%) had stopped performing. In considering ISBCS, patient convenience (n = 11, 68.8%) and reduced hospital visits (n = 8, 50.0%) were the most important factors nominated. The most important barriers to performing ISBCS were medico‐legal issues (n = 31, 83.8%) and risk of endophthalmitis (n = 27, 73.0%), followed by perceived lack of evidence for its effectiveness (n = 19, 51.4%).

Conclusion

This is one of the first studies evaluating ophthalmologists' sentiments towards performing ISBCS in an Asian country. It highlights some of the most pertinent barriers and concerns that ophthalmologists face in performing and offering ISBCS. This study provides a better understanding of the potential role and prospects of ISBCS in future cataract care in Singapore.
Application of the international system for reporting serous fluid cytopathology on pleural effusion cytology with paired pleural biopsy: A new insight and novel approach on risk of malignancy
Authors: Maleki Zahra , Graham Ashleigh J. , Jones Robert , Pastorello Ricardo , Morris Paul , Schmitt Alessandra C. , Rodriguez Erika F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The risk of malignancy (ROM) remains an area of interest for further evaluation in reporting systems including in International System for reporting serous fluid cytopathology (TIS), which is a standardized system for reporting effusion cytology. Herein, we report our findings in further investigation of ROM in TIS by studying on paired pleural effusion specimens and corresponding pleural biopsies with emphasis on negative for malignancy, and atypia of undetermined significance categories.

Materials and Methods

The  Johns Hopkins Hospital pathology database was retrospectively searched for patients with a pleural biopsy (PBX) and a paired pleural effusion (PF) cytology specimens over a 4‐year period. We employed the TIS categories. The following statistical parameters were evaluated: sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and ROM.

Results

A total of 223 patient cases were included. Effusions TIS reclassification and ROM were as follows: 1.8% non‐diagnostic (ROM 75%), 75.8% negative for malignancy (ROM 23%), 4.9% atypical cells of undetermined significance (ROM 45%), 2.2% suspicious for malignancy (ROM 80%), and 15.2% malignant (ROM 100%). Overall accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV were calculated and were 79.4%, 45%, 97.7%, 91.2% and 77%, respectively. Among, discordant cases diagnosed negative for malignancy on PF and positive for malignancy on PBX, there were significant number of lymphomas, mesotheliomas, and sarcomas. Lung cancer was the most common carcinoma; however, rare types of carcinomas were noted. Cells blocks and immunohistochemistry (IHC) studies were utilized to confirm either malignant conditions or rule out malignancy in both cell blocks and histology biopsies.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the high specificity and ROM for ‘malignant’ and ‘suspicious for malignancy’ categories in the TIS reporting system and highlights the modest negative predictive value for the ‘negative for malignancy’ category. Although Tissue biopsies are usually considered as ‘gold standard’, any definitive diagnosis of malignancy of body fluid should be considered positive for malignancy in further clinical decision‐making.
The impact of a preopening session on subsequent trading: An experimental analysis
Authors: Caferra Rocco , Morone Andrea , Nuzzo Simone
Published: August 2024

In this study, we examine the influence of a preopening call market (CM) session on the subsequent continuous double auction (CDA) trading phase within a combined market structure (CMDA). We propose that the introduction of a CM phase before the CDA could potentially mitigate price volatility during the CDA by facilitating the disclosure of agents' private information through the preopening pricing phase. Our findings reveal a positive relationship between the preopening price and the prices traded during the subsequent phase, alongside a decreased deviation of prices from their fundamental value when high‐quality information is available. These results suggest that a well‐defined preopening phase has the potential to improve market efficiency.
Variation in immune response in the generalist herbivore fall webworm across four common host plants
Authors: Mitchell Audrey M. , Vyas Dhaval K. , Murphy Shannon M.
Published: August 2024

Dietary generalist herbivorous insects are widespread and often occur in a variety of environments. Across their geographic range, herbivorous insects may encounter variable plant traits as they feed on high‐quality or low‐quality plants. Herbivorous insect larvae experience both bottom‐up (host plant) and top‐down (parasitoid) factors that affect survival. Host plant quality may affect larval growth and survival in that larvae feeding on low‐quality plants often suffer reduced fitness. However, herbivores on different host plants are also subject to different levels of parasitism. High‐quality plants confer stronger larval performance (higher survival, more offspring), but larvae may also face higher parasitism. In some herbivore species, diet mediates larval immune response. The generalist insect herbivore fall webworm (FW), Hyphantria cunea Drury (Lepidoptera: Erebidae), is a moth native to North America, and its larvae have considerable variance in their performance when reared on different host plants. We investigated whether diet affects the immune response in FW larvae when they are reared on different host plant species known to vary in food quality. We measured immune response by melanization of a nylon filament. We found significant differences in immune response across host plants, indicating that diet mediates immune response in FW larvae. Our study helps elucidate the factors that cause variation in immune response in a generalist herbivore.
A widespread, consistent, and perplexing biphasic pattern in log catch‐at‐age data from a widely harvested family of tropical reef fishes
Authors: Taylor Brett M. , Prince Jeremy , Mutz Stephanie , Pardee Cassandra , Wiley John , Robertson D. Ross , Choat J. Howard
Published: August 2024

Patterns of cohort decline are key demographic traits that provide a unique temporal perspective vital to understanding population dynamics. The discovery of multidecadal lifespans in tropical surgeonfishes in the 1990s created a paradigm shift to the notion that they are highly vulnerable species with low population recovery rates; however, research into the mortality patterns of surgeonfishes (Acanthuridae) has been sparse until recently. Recent studies on this family have demonstrated an unusual (possibly unique), two‐phase pattern of adult catch‐at‐age, whereby there is a population‐level shift from higher‐than‐expected rates of decline early in life to lower‐than‐expected decline rates for the remainder of the lifespan. To examine the geographic and phylogenetic ubiquity of this pattern, we compiled age‐based information from demographic samples of 70 populations of 25 tropical species spanning the Indo‐Central Pacific and Central‐Western Atlantic. Overall, we found that 79% of populations exhibited strong biphasic patterns, including 88% of populations across the Indo‐Central Pacific. By accounting for empirical relationships instead of using linear catch curves or classical assumptions of natural population decay based on lifespan, we demonstrate that surgeonfishes have turnover times that are two to four times faster than previously believed. Faster turnover times may suggest a higher level of sustainability for surgeonfish fisheries throughout the global tropics than previously estimated.
E‐government and citizen‐state relations: Evidence from a randomized information campaign with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service
Authors: Ziaja Sebastian , Geray Markus , Sebudubudu David , von Schiller Armin
Published: August 2024

E‐government services are often heralded as a silver bullet for governments willing to engage more meaningfully with citizens. Evidence on the effectiveness of these measures for improving citizen‐state relations is scarce, however. Most studies examining e‐government focus on efficiency considerations; few consider potential effects on citizen‐state relations. The present study analyses the effect of an information treatment about the availability of e‐government services on citizen perceptions of government responsiveness. We conducted an experiment in cooperation with the Botswana Unified Revenue Service that randomly assigned registered taxpayers to receive a short message on their mobile phones. Our results indicate that the treatment has a significant, positive effect on the perception that the government addresses citizen needs, and more so for respondents with lower income. The findings suggest that, by affecting how citizens assess political realities, e‐government can play an important role in shaping citizen‐state relations.
Everyday activism and “actionable” hope as tempered radicals
Authors: O’Shea Michelle , Paraschak Victoria , Pearce Sonya , Maxwell Hazel , Pullen Alison
Published: August 2024

This paper takes its departure from Rebecca Solnit's idea that there should be “hope in darkness” as we work towards a shared preferred future that resists gendered and racial inequities and oppressions. We put forward “actionable” hope which embodies hope as an everyday action, an activism enacted by “tempered radicals” (Meyerson & Scully, 1995). This thinking about the relationship between hope and activism emerged through our coming together and was bound by our learning and privileging of Indigenous knowledges and a strengths and hope perspective. The paper is presented in the form and style of polyphonic writing conveying the openness and generosity of spirit that the strengths and hope perspective carries for tempered radicals. Our “insider” and “outsider” positionings unfold as we engage in unsettling discussions of “privilege.” Our practices give recognition to being sensitive to issues of belonging, care, and collective hope, while working towards transformative social change that addresses systemic inequalities. Belonging is seen as essential for collective everyday activism which requires affective actional hope for realizing shared preferred futures.
Functions of idioms in English as lingua franca: An appraisal system account
Authors: Allami Hamid , Karlsson Monica , Shahroosvand Hamid Reza
Published: August 2024

Idiomatic expressions are not just neutral equivalents of their literal counterparts, but exert some sort of evaluative force. This study employed the appraisal system (AS) to explore the functions of idiomatic expressions and their variations in English as a lingua franca context, and to compare different academic domains in terms of use of evaluative language in the form of idiomatic expressions. To this end, the corpus of English as a lingua franca in academic settings and the Vienna–Oxford International Corpus of English were searched for idiom tokens through whole‐phrase and keyword search. The idioms and their variations were classified based on the AS. The findings indicated that social and behavioral scientific texts included higher proportions of evaluative idiomatic expressions whereas medical and natural scientific texts generated lower percentages of appraisal idioms. There was a stronger tendency in both corpora toward using idioms as appreciation as compared to judgment and affect. Given the employed methodology, the AS could not be applied to some idioms for their compositionality nature.
The development of phrase‐frames in EFL learners’ essays: Variability, structures, and functions
Authors: Yan Jianwei , Li Qidi , Jiang Jingyang
Published: August 2024

Phrase‐frames (i.e., p‐frames) are a type of discontinuous formulaic language that have long been of interest to linguists in L2 writing research. Studies have explored p‐frames in different types of texts, but few have investigated p‐frames in learners’ essays, and it remains unclear at which level learners will begin to use p‐frames in native‐like ways. Drawing on a self‐compiled corpus of 1061 learner essays, this study explores the four‐word p‐frames used by Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners across four proficiency groups (pre‐B1, B1, B2, C1&C2) and analyzes the p‐frames regarding their variability, structures, and functions. The study also compares the p‐frames used by learners with those used by L1 English‐speaking students in terms of the three characteristics mentioned above. The results show that: (1) learners at more advanced proficiency levels use more varied p‐frames and more function word frames; (2) when learners have achieved C1&C2 levels they can use p‐frames in similar ways to L1 English‐speaking students regarding variability and structure; and (3) pre‐B1 learners are less skilled in using referential and discourse organizing expressions, probably due to a lower capability in the use of function word structures and cohesive devices. The findings help to advance our understanding of p‐frame development across proficiency levels, and offer some pedagogical implications for the teaching and learning of formulaic language.
Subcutaneous granuloma annulare: a systematic review of a rare and underdiagnosed disease
Authors: Lapidus Adam H. , Lee Sangho , Khandewal Tanishq , Liu Zhao Feng , Ip Ken Hiu‐Kan , Lin Lawrence , Chew Christopher Y.
Published: August 2024

Subcutaneous granuloma annulare (SGA) is a rare clinicopathologic subtype of granuloma annulare characterized by the presence of subcutaneous nodules. There are no present reviews synthesizing the clinical features and treatment modalities in SGA. We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines [CRD42022344672] on all peer‐reviewed English‐language studies that reported one or more cases of SGA. A total of 97 studies, comprising 26 case series and 71 case reports with 324 patients, were included for analysis. Most cases were predominantly pediatric, with 78.9% of the cases identified being age 16 or lower and a median age of diagnosis of 6. There was no overall gender predisposition. Although over two‐thirds of patients did not have any comorbidities, diabetes mellitus was the most common comorbidity present in 4% of cases. The most common feature of SGA was nodules, which were present in 99.6% of patients. Pain or tenderness was reported in 15.4%, and erythema of overlying skin in 11.0% of cases. Surgical excision was performed in 96/141 (68.1%) patients. Among the 27/141 (18.0%) patients who were conservatively managed, 87.0% spontaneously improved, including 60.0% who completely self‐resolved. Topical and intralesional steroids were used in 3.40% and 1.85% of patients, respectively, resulting in complete or partial resolution in 54.6% and 100%. Among patients who were followed up, 83/324 (25.6%) patients experienced recurrence after a median duration of 26 weeks. SGA is predominantly a pediatric disease that frequently occurs on the limbs and the head. Juxta‐articular lesions are more commonly observed in adults than in children. Surgical excision is common and effective in most patients. Spontaneous improvement occurs in most untreated cases, and intralesional steroids but not topical steroids may be beneficial for non‐resolving cases and to reduce time to resolution.
Diabetic striatopathy: Hyperglycemic chorea/ballism successfully treated with L‐dopa
Authors: Tsukaguchi Ryo , Hasebe Masashi , Shibue Kimitaka , Hamasaki Akihiro
Published: August 2024

Diabetic striatopathy, a rare hyperglycemia complication, is characterized by chorea/ballism and striatal anomalies on neuroimaging, usually managed with glycemic control and haloperidol. However, practical strategies for haloperidol‐resistant cases are scarce. We describe a 76‐year‐old Japanese woman with diabetic striatopathy who initially presented with polydipsia, polyuria, and lower‐extremity weakness. Despite pronounced hyperglycemia (725 mg/dL), her blood glucose levels were reduced through saline infusion and intravenous insulin. Subsequently, she developed whole‐body ballism concomitant with striatal hyperintensity on T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging, which initially responded to haloperidol. Upon discontinuation of haloperidol, her symptoms relapsed and did not improve with the reintroduction of haloperidol. Dopamine transporter single photon emission computed tomography revealed diminished bilateral striatal uptake, suggesting presynaptic dopaminergic dysfunction. This finding prompted the initiation of L‐dopa, which significantly improved her symptoms. This case underlines the need to consider presynaptic dopaminergic dysfunction in diabetic striatopathy patients unresponsive to standard treatments, highlighting the effectiveness of L‐dopa in such scenarios.
Persistence of advanced systemic pharmacological treatment of moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis among bio‐naïve patients—A retrospective register‐based cohort study in Finland and Sweden
Authors: Tskhvarashvili G. , Aher K. , Sveide I. , Katus U. , Westerlund A. , Hoti F. , Wennerström C. , Hassan F. , Lee J. , Hermanrud C. , Johnsson I. , Passey A. , Nissinen R. , Polesie S. , Mälkönen T. , Saarelainen L.
Published: August 2024

Background

Plaque psoriasis (PsO) requires long‐term treatment for symptom control and remission; thus, a long‐term pharmacological intervention is necessary. Treatment persistence reflects long‐term therapeutic effectiveness and tolerance.

Objectives

This study investigates drug persistence and compares treatment discontinuation rates across biologic agents and apremilast used by PsO patients in Finland and Sweden.

Methods

This retrospective register‐based cohort study included bio‐naïve patients (≥18 years) with moderate‐to‐severe PsO, who initiated treatment with abatacept, adalimumab, brodalumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab, guselkumab, ixekizumab, risankizumab, secukinumab, tildrakizumab, ustekinumab or apremilast during 2008–2020 in Finland or Sweden. The main analysis evaluated persistence (based on duration of continuous treatment) and compared rates of treatment discontinuation using guselkumab as reference drug, during 2018–2020 in Finland. Treatment discontinuation was assessed by survival analysis of the time to first drug discontinuation, including switching to other study drugs. Due to limited sample size (n < 20), certain biologics (abatacept, brodalumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab, risankizumab and tildrakizumab) were excluded from the persistence analysis.

Results

In Finland, 709 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria during 2018–2020 for the main analysis. The highest persistence was observed for guselkumab and ustekinumab with 90 and 85% of treated patients, respectively, continuing treatment for ≥1 year. Comparable results were observed in the expanded cohort analysis (index starting in 2008; 2745 bio‐naïve patients in Finland and 10,970 in Sweden). Furthermore, patients treated with guselkumab in Finland showed lower treatment discontinuation rates compared to other study drugs.

Conclusion

Guselkumab and ustekinumab demonstrated high persistence as measured by continued treatment for at least 1 year. Furthermore, these treatments demonstrated lower rates of discontinuation compared to other study drugs included in the analysis. Understanding the balance between efficacy and feasibility in treatment decisions is crucial, as feasibility may impact persistency outcomes and potentially increase persistency rates.
Influential factors of adherence to inhalation drug therapy in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Zheng Li , Sun Haiyan , Chen Qi , Xie Xin , Jin Hong , Ding Ye
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the influential factors of adherence to inhalation drug therapy (IDT) in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

A total of 243 patients with stable COPD who visited the chronic disease clinic of the respiratory department of our hospital between April 2022 and October 2022 were selected as participants using the convenience sampling method. Relevant information about all participants was collected by questionnaire for investigation, including basic information, clinical characteristics, inhaled drug names, situational awareness, dose and frequency.

Results

Univariate analysis revealed positive correlations between the following factors: (1) the total score of drug adherence and the total scores of the COPD knowledge questionnaire (COPD‐Q), social support, subjective support, objective support and support utilisation, (2) the total score of dosage adherence and the total scores of COPD‐Q, objective support and support utilisation and (3) the total score of technical standardisation and the total scores of social support, subjective support and objective support (p < 0.05). Multifactorial analysis showed that COPD health literacy, number of acute exacerbations in the past year and social support factors collectively accounted for 37.4% of the variable of patient adherence to IDT, as did COPD health literacy, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) grading, duration of COPD, utilisation of support and marital status collectively account for 47.4% of the variable of patient dosage adherence. The goodness‐of‐fit of age, mMRC grading, social support, mode of residence, number of acute exacerbations in the past year and literacy to the patients' inhalation technical standardisation in the model was 47.4%.

Conclusion

Dose adherence was predominantly influenced by COPD health literacy, mMRC grading, duration of COPD, utilisation of support and marital status. Inhalation technical standardisation was substantially limited by age, mMRC grading, social support, mode of residence, number of acute exacerbations in the past year and literacy.
Barramundi (Lates calcarifer) rare coloration patterns: a multiomics approach to understand the “panda” phenotype
Authors: Marcoli Roberta , Jones David B. , Massault Cecile , Harrison Paul J. , Cate Holly S. , Jerry Dean R.
Published: August 2024

The barramundi (Lates calcarifer), a significant aquaculture species, typically displays silver to bronze coloration. However, attention is now drawn to rare variants like the “panda” phenotype, characterized by blotch‐like patterns of black (PB) and golden (PG) patches. This phenotype presents an opportunity to explore the molecular mechanisms underlying color variations in teleosts. Unlike stable color patterns in many fish, the “panda” variant demonstrates phenotypic plasticity, responding dynamically to unknown cues. We propose a complex interplay of genetic factors and epigenetic modifications, focusing on DNA methylation. Through a multiomics approach, we analyze transcriptomic and methylation patterns between PB and PG patches. Our study reveals differential gene expression related to melanosome trafficking and chromatophore differentiation. Although the specific gene responsible for the PB–PG difference remains elusive, candidate genes like asip1, asip2, mlph, and mreg have been identified. Methylation emerges as a potential contributor to the “panda” phenotype, with changes in gene promoters like hand2 and dynamin possibly influencing coloration. This research lays the groundwork for further exploration into rare barramundi color patterns, enhancing our understanding of color diversity in teleosts. Additionally, it underscores the “panda” phenotype's potential as a model for studying adult skin coloration.
Progression of frailty and cardiovascular outcomes among Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Gong Yusi , Song Yang , Xu Jiaman , Dong Huaying , Kramer Daniel B. , Orkaby Ariela R. , Dodson John A. , Strom Jordan B.
Published: August 2024

Background

Frailty is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes independent of age and comorbidities, yet the independent influence of frailty progression on cardiovascular outcomes remains uncertain.

Methods

To determine whether frailty progression is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes, independent of baseline frailty and age, we evaluated all Medicare Fee‐for‐Service beneficiaries ≥65 years at cohort inception with continuous enrollment from 2003 to 2015. Linear mixed effects models, adjusted for baseline frailty and age, were used to estimate change in a validated claims‐based frailty index (CFI) over a 5‐year period. Survival analysis was used to examine frailty progression and risk of adverse health outcomes.

Results

There were 8.9 million unique patients identified, mean age 77.3 ± 7.2 years, 58.7% female, 10.9% non‐White race. In total, 60% had frailty progression and 40% frailty regression over median follow‐up of 2.4 years. Compared to those with frailty regression, when adjusting for age and baseline CFI, those with frailty progression had a significantly greater risk of incident major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (hazard ratio [HR] 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.31–1.31), all‐cause mortality (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.34–1.34), acute myocardial infarction (HR 1.08, 95% CI 1.07–1.09), heart failure exacerbation (HR 1.30, 95% CI 1.29–1.30), ischemic stroke (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.14–1.15). There was also a graded increase in risk of each outcome with more rapid progression, as well as significantly fewer days alive at home (DAH) with more rapid progression compared to the slowest progression group (270.4 ± 112.3 vs. 308.6 ± 93.0 days, rate ratio 0.88, 95% CI 0.87–0.88, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this large, nationwide sample of older Medicare beneficiaries, frailty progression, independent of age and baseline frailty, was associated with fewer DAH and a graded risk of MACCE, all‐cause mortality, myocardial infarction, heart failure, and ischemic stroke compared to those with frailty regression.
Impact of cancer on the mortality of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies by flexible parametric multistate modelling
Authors: Che Weng Ian , Kuja‐Halkola Ralf , Hellgren Karin , Lundberg Ingrid E. , Westerlind Helga , Baecklund Fredrik , Holmqvist Marie
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) have an increased risk of cancer, but their cancer‐related disease burden remains unclear.

Objectives

To explore how cancer might impact the mortality of patients with IIM and examine the associated prognostic factors for cancer and death.

Methods

We identified patients with IIM diagnosed between 1998 and 2020 and ascertained their cancer and death records via linkage to the Swedish healthcare and population registers. Transition hazards from IIM diagnosis to cancer and death were estimated in multistate models using flexible parametric methods. We then predicted the probability of having cancer or death, and the duration of staying alive at a given time from IIM and cancer diagnoses from a crude model. We also explored prognostic factors for progression to cancer and death in a multivariable model.

Results

Of 1826 IIM patients, 310 (17%) were diagnosed with cancer before and 306 (17%) after IIM diagnosis. In patients diagnosed with cancer after IIM, the 5‐year probability of death from cancer and from other causes was 31% and 18%, respectively, compared to 7% and 15% in patients without cancer after IIM. We reported several factors associated with risk of progression to cancer and death. Specifically, patients with first cancer after IIM who were older at IIM diagnosis, had cancer history, dermatomyositis and a cancer diagnosis within 1 year following IIM faced a greater cancer‐specific mortality.

Conclusion

We observed a substantial increase in mortality from cancer, compared to before, rather than other causes after a cancer diagnosis following IIM, suggesting an unmet medical need for effective cancer management in IIM patients. This finding, along with the identified prognostic factors, provides useful insight into future research directions for improving cancer management in IIM patients.
Can treatment with chondroitin and glucosamine sulphate prevent changes in the articular disc caused by temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis?
Authors: Malaguez Giulia Giacomini , Artuzi Felipe Ernesto , Quevedo Alexandre Silva , Puricelli Edela , Ponzoni Deise
Published: August 2024

Background

Chondroitin and glucosamine sulphates (CGS) are considered structure‐modifying drugs and have been studied in the prevention, delay or reversal of structural morphological changes in joints caused by osteoarthritis.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the action of CGS on the progression of chemically induced osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of rabbits by evaluating the serum levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF‐α) and collagen in the articular discs.

Materials and Methods

A sample of 36 male rabbits was divided into three groups: control (CG), osteoarthritis (OG) and treatment (TG). The disease was induced by intra‐articular injection of sodium monoiodoacetate (10 mg/mL) in the OG and TG groups bilaterally. After 10 days, the TG animals received subcutaneous injection of chondroitin sulphates and glucosamine (7.5 mg/kg) and the OG and CG received saline solution (50 μL). Euthanasia times were subdivided into 40 and 100 days. Collagen quantification was performed by biochemical and histological analysis and for the quantification of serum levels of TNF‐α, an enzyme immunoassay was used.

Results

The TG showed an increase in the collagen area of the articular disc when compared to the CG and the OG. The increase collagen concentration in the discs did not show a statistically significant difference between the groups. Post‐treatment TNF‐α levels were significantly lower in TG compared to OG.

Conclusions

The results indicate that CGS treatment delayed the degeneration of the collagen in the TMJ articular disc and reduced serum TNF‐α levels, indicating a preventive effect on OA progression.
First report of Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae causing canker and stem blight of blueberries in Morocco
Authors: Goura Khadija , Lahlali Rachid , Baala Mohammed , El Alami Nabila , Kenfaoui Jihane , Belabess Zineb , Tahiri Abdessalem
Published: August 2024

Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) has been extensively planted in Morocco due to its nutritional value and economic importance. Botryosphaeria canker or stem blight of blueberry has emerged as one of the most destructive diseases affecting global production of this crop. This disease causes wood symptoms such as necrotic lesions, internal wood discoloration, and stem blight. Similar symptoms were found on blueberry farms in the Northwestern region of Morocco. Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae was isolated from the diseased tissues of blueberry. The identification of the causal agent was confirmed by morphological and molecular characterization through sequence analysis of two loci, the internal transcribed region (ITS) and beta‐tubulin (βtub). The pathogenicity test was performed on blueberry twigs and indicated that L. pseudotheobromae causes damage to blueberry plants. This is the first report of L. pseudotheobromae on blueberry in Morocco.
Light‐Dependent Circadian Rhythm Governs O‐GlcNAc Cycling to Influence Cognitive Function in Adult Zebrafish
Authors: Park Jiwon , Kim Dong Yeol , Oh Eok‐Soo , Han Inn‐Oc
Published: August 2024

This study explores the 24‐h rhythmic cycle of protein O‐GlcNAcylation within the brain and highlights its crucial role in regulating the circadian cycle and neuronal function based on zebrafish as an animal model. In our experiments, disruption of the circadian rhythm, achieved through inversion of the light‐dark cycle or daytime melatonin treatment, not only impaired the rhythmic changes of O‐GlcNAcylation along with altering expression patterns of O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT) and O‐GlcNAcase (OGA) in zebrafish brain but also significantly impeded learning and memory function. In particular, circadian disruption affected rhythmic expression of protein O‐GlcNAcylation and OGT in the nuclear fraction. Notably, the circadian cycle induces rhythmic alterations in O‐GlcNAcylation of H2B histone protein that correspond to changes in H3 trimethylation. Disruption of the cycle interfered with these periodic histone code alterations. Pharmacological inhibition of OGT with OSMI‐1 disrupted the wake‐sleep patterns of zebrafish without affecting expression of circadian rhythm‐regulating genes. OSMI‐1 inhibited the expression of c‐fos, bdnf, and calm1, key genes associated with brain function and synaptic plasticity, and decreased the binding of O‐GlcNAcylated H2B and OGT to promoter regions of these genes. The collective findings support the potential involvement of circadian cycling of the O‐GlcNAc histone code in regulating synaptic plasticity and brain function. Overall, data from this study provide evidence that protein O‐GlcNAcylation serves as a pivotal posttranslational mechanism integrating circadian signals and neuronal function to regulate rhythmic physiology.
Gongronema sasidharanii (Marsdenieae, Asclepiadoideae, Apocynaceae), a remarkable new species from Pambadum Shola National Park of Kerala and a new genus record for southern India
Authors: Aloor Robi Jose , Menachery Salish Johnson , Vadakkekkara Sreenivas , Arun Lekshmi , Nair Arun Krishnankutty , Ponnachan Thomas Valukattil
Published: August 2024

Gongronema sasidharanii, a new species of hitherto unknown genus of south India Gongronema, characterized by an urceolate flower and discovered in Pambadum Shola National Park is described and illustrated. Photographs, and detailed comparison with the allied species G. napalense and G. ventricosum are provided.
Sources of reduced visual acuity and spectacle treatment options for individuals with Down syndrome: Review of current literature
Authors: Anderson Heather A.
Published: August 2024

Individuals with Down syndrome are known to have a greater prevalence of ocular conditions such as strabismus, nystagmus, elevated refractive error, poor accommodative function, elevated higher‐order optical aberrations and corneal abnormalities. Related to these conditions, individuals with Down syndrome commonly have reduced best‐corrected visual acuity at both far and near viewing distances across their lifespan. This review summarises the various optical sources of visual acuity reduction in this population and describes clinical trials that have evaluated alternative spectacle prescribing strategies to minimise these optical deficits. Although refractive corrections may still have limitations in their ability to normalise visual acuity for individuals with Down syndrome, the current literature provides evidence for eye care practitioners to consider in their prescribing practices for this population to maximise visual acuity. These considerations include accounting for the presence of elevated higher‐order aberrations when determining refractive corrections and considering bifocal lens prescriptions, even for young children with Down syndrome.
Workload of home care nurses: Italian adaptation, validity, and reliability of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index questionnaire
Authors: Zaghini Francesco , Calzolari Michela , Di Nitto Marco , Longobucco Yari , Alvaro Rosaria , Cicolini Giancarlo , Lancia Loreto , Manara Duilio Fiorenzo , Rasero Laura , Rocco Gennaro , Zega Maurizio , Mazzoleni Beatrice , Sasso Loredana , Bagnasco Annamaria
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to adapt the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA‐TLX) to the home care setting and translate and validate it in Italian.

An online questionnaire containing the Italian version of the NASA‐TLX adapted to the home care setting was administered to home care nurses to measure workload. Content Validity Index, Exploratory, and Confirmatory Factor Analyses were used to measure the psychometric characteristics of the modified NASA‐TLX.

The modified Italian version of NASA‐TLX_HC‐IT showed good psychometric characteristics in measuring the workload of home care nurses, with excellent fit indices. The reliability, calculated with Cronbach's alpha, was 0.73, indicating adequate reliability. A negative correlation between workload and job satisfaction among home care nurses, as well as a positive association between high workload and intention to leave the workplace, was verified.

The modified Italian version of the NASA‐TLX_HC‐IT was confirmed to be a valid and reliable instrument to measure workload in home care nursing. Furthermore, the correlation between workload and the intention to leave the workplace among home care nurses was an important result that community nursing managers should consider preventing the shortage of home care nurses.