bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The overlooked complexity of avian brood parasite–host relationships
Authors: Kennerley James A. , Somveille Marius , Hauber Mark E. , Richardson Nicole M. , Manica Andrea , Feeney William E.
Published: June 2022

The relationships between avian brood parasites and their hosts are widely recognised as model systems for studying coevolution. However, while most brood parasites are known to parasitise multiple species of host and hosts are often subject to parasitism by multiple brood parasite species, the examination of multispecies interactions remains rare. Here, we compile data on all known brood parasite–host relationships and find that complex brood parasite–host systems, where multiple species of brood parasites and hosts coexist and interact, are globally commonplace. By examining patterns of past research, we outline the disparity between patterns of network complexity and past research emphases and discuss factors that may be associated with these patterns. Drawing on insights gained from other systems that have embraced a multispecies framework, we highlight the potential benefits of considering brood parasite–host interactions as ecological networks and brood parasitism as a model system for studying multispecies interactions. Overall, our results provide new insights into the diversity of these relationships, highlight the stark mismatch between past research efforts and global patterns of network complexity, and draw attention to the opportunities that more complex arrangements offer for examining how species interactions shape global patterns of biodiversity.
Thermomechanical and isothermal fatigue crack propagation testing method for 316LN austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Zheng Yiming , Li Bingbing , Zhao Jingwei , Liu Caiming , Itoh Takamoto , Chen Xu
Published: June 2022

Investigating fatigue crack growth behavior of materials is crucial to the life design and safety evaluation of engineering structures. During the practical service condition, the temperature keeps changing, which cannot be studied by the traditional fatigue crack growth test method at constant temperature. In this study, we focus on constructing a new thermomechanical fatigue (TMF) crack propagation testing method, developing a thermal deformation compensation method, and proposing an equivalent compliance method suitable for variable temperature conditions based on ASTM E647 standard to measure the crack length. Furthermore, the load‐ and strain‐controlled TMF tests under different phase angles are carried out to prove the validity of the new method.
Non‐destructive fatigue damage detection of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics using positron annihilation method
Authors: Uematsu Yoshihiko , Kakiuchi Toshifumi , Nishizawa Hideto , Nakai Asami , Ohtani Akio , Uesugi Noaya , Hattori Kanehisa
Published: June 2022

Tensile axial fatigue tests were carried out using carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics (CFRTP) plate with a hole notch up to very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) regime, where number of loading cycles was 2 × 107. The fatigue test was periodically interrupted, and fatigue damage accumulation around the hole notch was non‐destructively detected by two positron annihilation methods. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was applied to obtain positron lifetime and Doppler broadening method to obtain S‐parameter. Both parameters increased with increasing fatigue loading cycles. Fatigue damage detected by two positron annihilation methods was attributed to the expansion of free volume in the polymer matrix. The estimated size of free volume was sub‐nanoscale according to the experimental value of the positron annihilation lifetime. SEM and μCT scan revealed that the macroscopic fatigue damages, such as surface cracking, transverse cracking and delamination, increased with increasing fatigue loading cycles, which indicated that sub‐nanoscale and macroscopic fatigue damages progressed simultaneously. Consequently, it can be concluded that the positron annihilation methods can be used for the non‐destructive fatigue damage detection of CFRTP.
The counteracting effects of anthropogenic speciation and extinction on mammal species richness and phylogenetic diversity
Authors: Faurby Søren , Pedersen Rasmus Østergaard , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Antonelli Alexandre
Published: June 2022

Aim

Human activities are causing massive increases in extinction rates but might also lead to drastic increases in speciation rates; for example, after human‐mediated spread of species to otherwise unreachable landmasses. The long‐term net anthropogenic effects on biodiversity therefore remain uncertain. Our aim was to assess the combined anthropogenic effects of extinctions and speciations on biodiversity over geological time‐scales.

Location

Global.

Time period

Present and predicted future.

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial mammals.

Methods

We estimated known anthropogenic and predicted future extinctions based on Red List categories from the International Union for Conservation of Nature. We inferred potential anthropogenic speciations, assuming that all introductions to isolated landmasses would, over time, evolve into distinct species. We then estimated changes in regional and global species richness and phylogenetic diversity attributable to these extinctions and speciations.

Results

We demonstrated that if all species introduced onto new landmasses develop into new species, the number of anthropogenic speciation and extinctions eventually become similar. However, even after accounting for an anthropogenic increase in speciation, our estimates suggest recovery times for phylogenetic diversity of several millions of years.

Main conclusions

Our results highlight that although humans are causing drastic biodiversity losses, human‐driven speciation could eventually counterbalance these losses in species numbers, whereas phylogenetic diversity, at least within our simulation scenarios, would remain permanently reduced. This conclusion, however, requires our pressures on biodiversity to cease soon and requires us to consider geological time‐scales rather than changes over this century.
Clear cell stromal tumour of the lung with YAP1::TFE3 fusion: four cases including a case with highly aggressive clinical course
Authors: Dehner Carina A , Sadegh David , Boulos Fouad , Messias Nidia , Wang Wei‐Lien , Demicco Elizabeth G , Chrisinger John S A
Published: June 2022

Aims

Clear cell stromal tumour of the lung (CCST‐L) is a rare, recently recognised neoplasm which has been found to express TFE3 and harbour YAP1::TFE3 fusions. Initial data suggested a benign process; however, a single reported case gave rise to distant metastases. We sought to describe the clinicopathological and molecular features of additional cases of CCST‐L.

Methods and Results

Pathology and molecular archives were searched for cases of CCST‐L or tumours with YAP1::TFE3 fusions. Clinical features were noted. Available slides, including immunohistochemical studies, were re‐reviewed for diagnosis confirmation and assessment of pathological features. Results of molecular studies were also recorded. Four tumours were identified, all occurring in women (median age = 61 years, range = 24–69). Median tumour size was 4.4 cm (range = 1–9.5 cm); three tumours were unifocal and one was multifocal. Tumours were composed of epithelioid to spindled cells with eosinophilic to clear cytoplasm and grew in sheets, vague nests and short fascicles. Nuclear atypia was predominately mild; however, two cases showed scattered atypical cells. Mitotic activity was generally low, although one case showed a mitotic count of 6/2 mm2. All tumours expressed TFE3 and harboured YAP1::TFE3 fusions. One case was unresectable and was treated with chemotherapy, and two underwent complete resection. One patient died of disease 7 months following diagnosis, while a second patient was alive with no evidence of disease after 43 months. Follow‐up was not available for two cases.

Conclusion

CCST‐L expresses TFE3, harbours YAP1::TFE3 fusions and at least rare cases behave in an aggressive manner.
Irrigant flow in the root canal during ultrasonic activation: A numerical fluid–structure interaction model and its validation
Authors: Boutsioukis Christos , Verhaagen Bram , van der Sluis Lucas W. M. , Versluis Michel
Published: June 2022

Aim

The aim of the study was (a) to develop a three‐dimensional numerical model combining the oscillation of a tapered ultrasonic file and the induced irrigant flow along with their two‐way interaction in the confinement of a root canal. (b) To validate this model through comparison with experiments and theoretical (analytical) solutions of the flow.

Methodology

Two partial numerical models, one for the oscillation of the ultrasonic file and another one for the irrigant flow inside the root canal around the file, were created and coupled in order to take into account the two‐way coupled fluid–structure interaction. Simulations were carried out for ultrasonic K‐files and for smooth wires driven at four different amplitudes in air or inside an irrigant‐filled straight root canal. The oscillation pattern of the K‐files was determined experimentally by Scanning Laser Vibrometry, and the flow pattern inside an artificial root canal was analysed using high‐speed imaging together with Particle Image Velocimetry. Analytical solutions were obtained from an earlier study. Numerical, experimental and analytical results were compared to assess the validity of the model.

Results

The comparison of the oscillation amplitude and node location of the ultrasonic files and of the irrigant flow field showed a close agreement between the simulations, experiments and theoretical solutions.

Conclusions

The model is able to predict reliably the file oscillation and irrigant flow inside root canals during ultrasonic activation under similar conditions.
Non‐surgical root canal treatment and retreatment versus apical surgery in treating apical periodontitis: A systematic review
Authors: Bucchi Cristina , Rosen Eyal , Taschieri Silvio
Published: June 2022

Background

In addition to non‐surgical root canal treatment or retreatment, apical surgery may be carried out to manage teeth with apical periodontitis. However, it is unclear which treatment option is more effective.

Objective

To systematically review the effectiveness of apical surgery compared with non‐surgical treatment or retreatment in terms of clinical and patient‐related outcomes in teeth with apical periodontitis.

Methods

A literature search of electronic databases, the grey literature, the reference lists of included articles and previous reviews, and a hand search of leading endodontic journals, was conducted. Randomised and non‐randomised control trials, and longitudinal observational studies on patients undergoing surgical (treatment group) and non‐surgical root canal treatment or retreatment (control group) of teeth with apical periodontitis were included. The risk of bias was appraised using the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool; ROBINS‐I and the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale.

Results

Five studies, consisting of two randomised clinical trials, two non‐randomised clinical trials, and a retrospective cohort study, were included. The interobserver agreement was high and kappa correlation coefficient was good. In total 529 teeth were available for follow‐up that varied from 6 months to 8.7 years. The overall risk of bias was high for four studies and raised some concerns in one study. Apical surgery showed seemly better results regarding periapical healing and less need for more and further intervention, although tooth survival was higher in the control group. Given the heterogeneity of the studies, meta‐analysis was not possible.

Discussion

Previous systematic reviews have conducted an indirect comparison by separately pooling the outcomes of studies analysing either non‐surgical, or surgical, treatment. In this systematic review, only studies that compared both treatments were included. Most results of this and previous reviews were similar.

Conclusion

No treatment option showed clear superiority. However, to arrive at statistically supported conclusions there is a need for additional high‐quality comparative trials.

Registration

PROSPERO database (Registration number CRD42021260300).
Fat fraction quantification of bone marrow in the lumbar spine using the LiverLab assessment tool in healthy adult volunteers and patients with Gaucher disease
Authors: Gan Calvin , Robertson Patricia L. , Lai Jeffrey K. C. , Szer Jeff
Published: June 2022

Background

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is used for evaluation of bone in Gaucher disease (GD), but a widely available quantitative scoring method remains elusive.

Aims

The study purpose was to assess the reproducibility of the LiverLab tool for assessing bone marrow fat fraction (FF) and determine whether it could differentiate GD patients from healthy subjects.

Methods

Ten healthy volunteers and 18 GD patients were prospectively recruited. FF was calculated at L3, L4 and L5. GD patient bone marrow burden (BMB) score assessed by one observer. Inter and intra‐rater agreement assessed with Bland–Altman data plots. Differences in FF between healthy volunteers versus GD patients and between subjects treated versus not treated assessed using two‐sample t‐tests. In GD patients, the relationship between FF, BMB and glucosylsphingosine was determined using the Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Results

Healthy volunteer mean FF was 0.36, standard deviation (SD) 0.10 (range 0.20–0.57). Intra and inter‐rater SD were both 0.02. GD patient mean FF was 0.40, SD 0.13 (range 0.09–0.57). No statistical difference was shown between healthy volunteers and GD patients (P = 0.447) or between GD patients whether on enzyme replacement therapy or not (P = 0.090). No significant correlation between mean FF and total BMB (r = −0.525, P = 0.253) or between FF and glucosylsphingosine levels (r = 0.287, P = 0.248).

Conclusion

Excellent reproducibility of LiverLab FF measurements across studies and observers is comparable to Dixon quantitative chemical shift imaging (QCSI). Lack of statistical difference between GD patients and controls may be explained by limited patient numbers, active treatment or mild disease severity in untreated patients.
Anti‐tumour necrosis factor‐induced skin rashes in inflammatory bowel disease: a systematic review and evidence‐based management algorithm
Authors: Au Minnie , Heddle Georgina , Young Edward , Ryan Emma , Graf Scott , Tee Derrick , Philpott Hamish
Published: June 2022

Background

Anti‐tumour necrosis factor alpha (anti‐TNF) agents are a highly effective treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Skin lesions, including psoriasiform, eczematous and lupoid eruptions, may paradoxically result from anti‐TNF use and cause significant morbidity leading to discontinuation of therapy. There are no consensus guidelines on the management of these lesions.

Aims

This systematic review considers the existing evidence regarding cutaneous complications of anti‐TNF therapy in IBD and the development of an algorithm for management.

Methods

A systematic review was performed by searching Medline (Pubmed) and Embase for articles published from inception to January 2021. The following search terms were used ‘anti‐tumour necrosis factor alpha’, ‘infliximab’, ‘adalimumab’, ‘certolizumab’, ‘golimumab’, ‘inflammatory bowel disease’, ‘Crohn disease’, ‘Ulcerative colitis’, ‘psoriasis’, ‘psoriasiform’, ‘dermatitis’, ‘lupus’, ‘skin lesion’ and ‘skin rash’. Reference lists of relevant studies were reviewed to identify additional suitable studies.

Results

Thirty‐four studies were included in the review. Eczema can generally be managed with topical agents and the anti‐TNF can be continued, while the development of lupus requires immediate cessation of the anti‐TNF and consideration of alternative immunomodulators. Management of psoriasis and psoriasiform lesions may follow a step‐wise algorithm where topical treatments will be trialled in less severe cases, with recourse to an alternative anti‐TNF or a switch to an alternative class of biological agent.

Conclusion

Assessment of anti‐TNF skin lesions should be performed in conjunction with a dermatologist and rheumatologist in complex cases. High‐quality prospective studies are needed to clarify the validity of these algorithms in the future.
Repeat catheter ablation in patients with atrial arrhythmia recurrence despite durable pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Sciacca Vanessa , Fink Thomas , Eitel Charlotte , Heeger Christian‐Hendrik , Sano Makoto , Reil Jan‐Christian , Eitel Ingo , Kuck Karl‐Heinz , Vogler Julia , Tilz Roland R.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Arrhythmia recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is common and often linked to pulmonary vein reconnection. In patients with arrhythmia recurrences despite durable PVI the optimal ablation approach is unclear. The purpose of the present study was to analyze efficacy of extended ablation maneuvers in these patients and predictors of procedural success.

Methods

Consecutive patients with durable PVI undergoing repeat ablation procedures were prospectively enrolled. Patients underwent substrate modification with creation of linear lesions and/or mechanism‐specific atrial tachycardia (AT) ablation. Three dimensional‐mapping images were analyzed for the presence of left atrial (LA) low‐voltage areas according to published scoring systems.

Results

Seventy‐four patients were analyzed. Mode of recurrence after durable PVI was AF in 27 patients (36.5%) and AT in 47 patients (63.5%). Linear lesion ablation was performed in 60 patients (81.1%). Twenty‐four patients (32.4%) were treated for focal AT mechanisms. Mean follow‐up was 565 ± 342 days. Estimated arrhythmia‐free survival after 24 months was significantly higher in patients with AT than in patients with AF as mode of recurrence after durable PVI (42.9 ± 8.2% vs. 24.7 ± 8.5%, p = .023) and in patients without compared to patients with marked LA low‐voltage areas (40.5 ± 9.2% vs. 22.8 ± 8.5%, p = .041). The mode of recurrence after durable PVI was the only independent predictor of further arrhythmia recurrence after repeat ablation.

Conclusion

Arrhythmia‐free survival following repeat ablation procedures in patients with durable PVI highly depends on mode of arrhythmia recurrence and the presence of LA low‐voltage areas.
Factors related to the skin thickness of cardiovascular implantable electronic device pockets
Authors: Yatomi Atsusuke , Takami Mitsuru , Fukuzawa Koji , Kiuchi Kunihiko , Sakai Jun , Nakamura Toshihiro , Sonoda Yusuke , Takahara Hiroyuki , Nakasone Kazutaka , Yamamoto Kyoko , Suzuki Yuya , Tani Kenichi , Iwai Hidehiro , Nakanishi Yusuke , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: June 2022

Introduction

The skin overlying cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) sometimes becomes very thin after implantations, which could cause a device erosion. The factors related to the skin thickness of device pockets have not been elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the skin thickness of CIED pockets and search for the factors associated with the thickness.

Methods

Seventeen skin thickness points around the CIED pocket were measured through ultrasonography in each patient.

Results

A total of 101 patients (76 ± 11 years, 26 female) were enrolled. The median duration from the implantation to the examination was 95 months (quartile: 52.5–147.5). The median skin thickness overlying the device was 4.1 mm (3.3–5.9). Patients with heart failure and malignancy had thinner skin overlying the CIED than those without. A significant correlation existed between skin thickness and body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin, serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and left ventricular ejection fraction. In contrast, age, gender, and device size did not exhibit a significant correlation with skin thickness. A multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that chronic heart failure and a decrease in the eGFR and BMI were independent predictive factors of “very thin (≦3.3 mm)” skin of the CIED pocket late after an implantation.

Conclusion

Aside from a low BMI, the comorbidities (low hemoglobin, heart failure, and renal dysfunction) had a stronger impact on the skin thickness overlying the device than the device size. A careful observation of the device pocket should be performed in patients with those risk factors.
Potential of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐redirected immune cells in breast cancer therapies: Recent advances
Authors: Nikoo Marzieh , Rudiansyah Mohammad , Bokov Dmitry Olegovich , Jainakbaev Nurlan T. , Suksatan Wanich , Ansari Mohammad Javed , Thangavelu Lakshmi , Chupradit Supat , Zamani Amir , Adili Ali , Shomali Navid , Akbari Morteza
Published: June 2022

Despite substantial developments in conventional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy, and molecular‐targeted therapy, breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer mortality in women. Currently, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)–redirected immune cell therapy has emerged as an innovative immunotherapeutic approach to ameliorate survival rates of breast cancer patients by eliciting cytotoxic activity against cognate tumour‐associated antigens expressing tumour cells. As a crucial component of adaptive immunity, T cells and NK cells, as the central innate immune cells, are two types of pivotal candidates for CAR engineering in treating solid malignancies. However, the biological distinctions between NK cells‐ and T cells lead to differences in cancer immunotherapy outcomes. Likewise, optimal breast cancer removal via CAR‐redirected immune cells requires detecting safe target antigens, improving CAR structure for ideal immune cell functions, promoting CAR‐redirected immune cells filtration to the tumour microenvironment (TME), and increasing the ability of these engineered cells to persist and retain within the immunosuppressive TME. This review provides a concise overview of breast cancer pathogenesis and its hostile TME. We focus on the CAR‐T and CAR‐NK cells and discuss their significant differences. Finally, we deliver a summary based on recent advancements in the therapeutic capability of CAR‐T and CAR‐NK cells in treating breast cancer.
Serotonin in the regulation of systemic energy metabolism
Authors: Moon Joon Ho , Oh Chang‐Myung , Kim Hail
Published: June 2022

Serotonin is a well‐known neurotransmitter that is synthesized from the amino acid, tryptophan. To date, more than 14 different serotonin receptors have been discovered; they exist universally in our body and enable diverse biological functions in different organs. Central serotonin regulates mood and behavior, and impacts the systemic energy balance by decreasing appetite. A number of drugs that modulate central serotonin function (e.g., fenfluramine, sibutramine and lorcaserin) were approved and used as anti‐obesity drugs, but then later withdrawn due to adverse cardiovascular and carcinogenic effects. Over the past decade, the role of peripheral serotonin in regulating systemic energy metabolism has been extensively explored using tissue‐specific knockout animal models. By inhibiting the action of serotonin in liver and adipose tissues, hepatic steatosis was improved and lipid accumulation was mitigated, respectively. Recent findings show that modulation of the serotonergic system is a promising therapeutic target for metabolic diseases. This review summarizes the role of serotonin in regulating energy metabolism in different organs, and discusses the potential of serotonin modulation for treating metabolic diseases.
Biogeographical distribution of Hartaetosiga strains (Choanoflagellatea, Craspedida, Salpingoecidae) including morphological and transcriptomic data from a transect across the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Schiwitza Sabine , Spruck Christiane , Nitsche Frank
Published: June 2022

The genus Hartaetosiga Carr, Richter and Nitsche, 2017 comprised up to now only three species, H. gracilis (Kent) Carr, Richter, Nitsche, 2017, H. balthica (Wylezich and Karpov) Carr, Richter and Nitsche, 2017 and H. minima (Wylezich and Karpov) Carr, Richter and Nitsche, 2017. Based on distinct molecular data these species were relocated from the strictly freshwater genus Codosiga (Ehrenberg) Bütschli, 1878 to a new genus comprising brackish and marine species. During the cruise MSM82/2 across the Atlantic Ocean in 2019, surface water samples were taken from 15 stations along a transect ranging from 35°S to 23°N. We were able to isolate and cultivate 14 strains of the genus Hartaetosiga. Morphometric data showed no distinct morphological traits allowing for a species delineation, indicating a cryptic species complex within the genus. Based on cultivation, morphological data, and molecular analyses, we recorded H. gracilis for the first time from off‐shelf waters of the Atlantic Ocean and could describe a new species, H. australis n. sp. This new species was recorded from sampling stations in the Southern Hemisphere only, which may indicate a potential biogeographic restriction likely caused by the Equatorial Counter Current (ECC), dividing the northern and southern surface waters.
Evolutionary convergence in body shape obscures taxonomic diversity in species of the African Labeo forskalii group: Case study of L. parvus Boulenger 1902 and L. ogunensis Boulenger 1910
Authors: Liyandja Tobit L.D. , Armbruster Jonathan W. , Poopola Michael O. , Stiassny Melanie L. J.
Published: June 2022

Labeo is the third most diverse genus of African cyprinids and is widely distributed across the continent. Labeo parvus, a small species originally described from the Congo basin, has been considered the only species of the L. forskalii group distributed across five African ichthyofaunal provinces (Nilo‐Sudan, Congo, Cuanza, and Upper and Lower Guinea). However, morphological similarity between L. parvus and numerous congeners remains a central cause of taxonomic confusion within the genus. Here we employed a phylogenetic comparative approach to assess phenotypic convergence among species of the L. forskalii group, investigate the taxonomic status of L. parvus sensu lato (sl) in west Africa, and reevaluate the composition and distribution of L. parvus sensu stricto (ss). Our phylogenetic analysis provides no support for a sister relationship between L. parvus ss and any of the west African Labeo parvus‐like species. Geometric morphometric and molecular phylogenetic data indicate that L. parvus ss is a Congo basin endemic, and seemingly ecologically equivalent species found in west Africa are L. ogunensis, L. obscurus and other undescribed or previously synonymized species. We discuss our findings in terms of convergent evolution using phylomorphospace and tests for phylogenetic signal.
Development and characterization of a skin cell line from Chinese perch (Siniperca chuatsi) and its application in aquatic animal viruses
Authors: Meng Xian‐Yu , Wang Zi‐Hao , Yu Xue‐Dong , Zhang Qi‐Ya , Ke Fei
Published: June 2022

Chinese perch (Siniperca chuatsi), an important fish for the aquaculture industry of China, is often affected by viral diseases. A stable and sensitive cell line can play an important role in virus identification and isolation, functional gene identification, virus pathogenic mechanism and antiviral immunity study. In the present study, a new cell line (S. chuatsi skin cell, SCSC) derived from the skin of S. chuatsi was established. The SCSC mainly consisted of fibroblastic‐like cells, which grew well in M199 medium supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum at 25°C. Chromosome analysis revealed that the SCSC (44%) has a diploid chromosome number of 2n = 48. The SCSC can be transfected and expressed exogenous gene efficiently. It also showed high sensitivity to several aquatic animal viruses from different families including Rhabdoviridae, Iridoviridae and Reoviridae. In addition, RT‐PCR showed that S. chuatsi rhabdovirus (SCRV) started genome replication as early as 3 h post infection in the cells, which also induced the up‐regulation of a variety of immune‐related genes including these related to interleukin family, pattern recognition receptors, JAK–STAT pathway and interferon regulatory factors. In summary, current study provided a new tool in research of fish viruses and its interaction with host.
Development of a nutrition screening tool to identify need for dietetic intervention in female infertility
Authors: Deepak Kumar Komal , Huntriss Rosemary , Green Eulalee , Bora Shabana , Pettitt Claire
Published: June 2022

Background

One in seven couples are impacted by infertility in the UK, and female infertility is often associated with several health conditions impacted by nutrition. Despite many studies aimed at identifying the critical role of nutrition in infertility, there is currently no screening tool that identifies nutritional risk factors for infertility.

Aim

To propose a self‐administered screening tool to identify women who would benefit from nutritional intervention to promote fertility.

Methods

A narrative review was carried out to identify and summarise modifiable nutritional risk factors that can influence female fertility, including comorbidities that can influence nutrition intake, absorption, and metabolism.

Key Findings

A nutrition screening tool outlining modifiable nutrition risk factors potentially improving female fertility has been proposed, comprising of BMI, medical history and quality of diet and lifestyle which would aid in designing evidence based dietetic services for female infertility.
Recognition Memory for Interior Spaces with Biomorphic or Non–Biomorphic Interior Architectural Elements
Authors: Mirkia Hasti , Nelson Mark S. C. , Abercrombie Heather C. , Thorleifsdottir Kristin , Sangari Arash , Assadi Amir
Published: June 2022

In our study, the primary goal was to gain insights into cognition by measuring spatial memorability for two different types of approaches to geometry in interior design (biomorphic design and non–biomorphic rectilinear design). To better understand the processes behind the memorability differences, we also looked at how spatial memorability interacted with visual attention and spatial pleasantness. After extensive pre–testing, two standardized photographic stimulus sets were created and used during the experiment, controlling for variables such as novelty, complexity, pleasantness, and the number and density of interior architectural elements. Each stimulus set contained equal numbers of photographs with biomorphic elements and photographs with non–biomorphic elements. Subjects ( N = 68 students, mean age = 25.4 years) viewed the first stimulus set, then were given a “distractor” task. Next, subjects viewed the second stimulus set, and for each photograph indicated whether the image was one they had seen or whether it was new. Visual attention for each photograph was monitored using eye–tracking technology, and subjects also rated the pleasantness of each environment. The data were analyzed to test for the relative strength of memorability between environments with biomorphic elements and non–biomorphic elements, as well as the links between recognition memory, visual attention, and pleasantness. The results suggest that interior spaces with biomorphic elements positively contribute to spatial memorability, are found to be more pleasant, and increase visual attention.
Outcomes of paediatric patients with chronic liver disease in early adulthood: A heterogeneous, but representative, regional cohort study
Authors: Lau Nicole SM , Henderson Paul
Published: June 2022

Aim

Advances in paediatric hepatology have led to the increasing survival of patients with paediatric‐onset chronic hepatobiliary disease into adulthood. Data are lacking with regard to the outcomes of this heterogeneous group of patients and current transition models may be insufficient. This retrospective regional cohort study examined the outcomes of these patients cared for in a paediatric gastroenterology centre following transfer to adult services.

Methods

A prospective database of paediatric patients with liver disease identified those already transferred to adult services. Following exclusions, medical notes were examined and health parameters recorded including initial diagnoses, transplant status, fertility and mortality. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate follow‐up data and transplant‐free survival (TFS).

Results

Overall, 63 patients (52% male) entered the final analyses with a median follow‐up of 27.5 years. The most common diagnosis was biliary atresia (19%); 27 different diagnoses were apparent within the cohort highlighting the heterogeneity within a single centre. Transplant prevalence at adult transfer was 41%; 14% of patients were lost to follow‐up including 10% of transplant patients. TFS for biliary atresia was 17% after 37.4 years follow‐up and was 54% for the total cohort. There were seven documented pregnancies and the prevalence of any psychological or psychiatric input was 44%. Transplant complications occurred in 38% of patients; there were two cancer diagnoses and two deaths following transfer.

Conclusions

Although overall mortality was low, the health‐care burden of patients with paediatric‐onset chronic liver disease is high. This group is also very heterogeneous, making structured transition to adult services difficult.
Optimising sounds for the driving of sleep oscillations by closed‐loop auditory stimulation
Authors: Debellemanière Eden , Pinaud Clémence , Schneider Jules , Arnal Pierrick J. , Casson Alexander J. , Chennaoui Mounir , Galtier Mathieu , Navarrete Miguel , Lewis Penelope A.
Published: June 2022

Recent studies have shown that slow oscillations (SOs) can be driven by rhythmic auditory stimulation, which deepens slow‐wave sleep (SWS) and improves memory and the immune‐supportive hormonal milieu related to this sleep stage. While different attempts have been made to optimise the driving of the SOs by changing the number of click stimulations, no study has yet investigated the impact of applying more than five clicks in a row. Likewise, the importance of the type of sounds in eliciting brain responses is presently unclear. In a study of 12 healthy young participants (10 females; aged 18–26 years), we applied an established closed‐loop stimulation method, which delivered sequences of 10 pink noises, 10 pure sounds (B note of 247 Hz), 10 pronounced “a” vowels, 10 sham, 10 variable sounds, and 10 “oddball” sounds on the up phase of the endogenous SOs. By analysing area under the curve, amplitude, and event related potentials, we explored whether the nature of the sound had a differential effect on driving SOs. We showed that every stimulus in a 10‐click sequence, induces a SO response. Interestingly, all three types of sounds that we tested triggered SOs. However, pink noise elicited a more pronounced response compared to the other sounds, which was explained by a broader topographical recruitment of brain areas. Our data further suggest that varying the sounds may partially counteract habituation.
Control of ticks on horses using abamectin‐impregnated ear tags. A pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study
Authors: Werners Arno , Karasek Inga , Butler Catherine , Yeatts James , Enomoto Hiroko , Baynes Ronald
Published: June 2022

Several different tick species are known to infest horses. Aside from causing serious health and welfare issues, including anaemia, ill thrift, and immunosuppression, ticks can transmit a variety of important, sometimes zoonotic, pathogens. The successful prevention and treatment of tick infestations have been described, but the information is scarce and, in many instances, anecdotal. Here we describe a practical and affordable prevention of tick infestation by using abamectin‐impregnated cattle ear tags affixed to a safety collar. We have assessed the radial distribution of abamectin by analyzing hair samples, as well as its efficacy against tick infestations. The study results show that abamectin distributes across horse skin from the site of application and its associated effectiveness in reducing the tick burden.
Competency frameworks, nursing perspectives, and interdisciplinary collaborations for good patient care: Delineating boundaries
Authors: Zumstein‐Shaha Maya , Grace Pamela J.
Published: June 2022

To enhance patient care in the inevitable conditions of complexity that exist in contemporary healthcare, collaboration among healthcare professions is critical. While each profession necessarily has its own primary focus and perspective on the nature of human healthcare needs, these alone are insufficient for meeting the complex needs of patients (and potential patients). Persons are inevitably contextual entities, inseparable from their environments, and are subject to institutional and social barriers that can detract from good care or from accessing healthcare. These are some of the reasons behind current movements to develop competency frameworks that can enhance cross‐disciplinary communication and collaboration. No single profession can claim the big picture. Effective teamwork is essential and requires members of diverse professions to understand the nature of each other's knowledge, skills, roles, perspectives, and perceived responsibilities so that they are optimally utilized on behalf of patients and their families. Interdisciplinary approaches to care permit different aspects of a person's needs to be addressed seamlessly and facilitate the removal of obstacles by engaging the range of resources exemplified by the different professions. Additionally, collaborative efforts are needed to influence policy changes on behalf of individual and social good and to address root causes of poor health especially as these impact society's most vulnerable. Here, we explore both the benefits and the risks of an uncritical acceptance of competency frameworks as a way to enhance interdisciplinary communication. We highlight the importance of anchoring proposed competency domains in the reason for being of a given profession and exemplify one way this has been accomplished for advanced practice nursing. Additionally, we argue that having this mooring, permits integration of the various competencies that both enhances professional moral agency and facilitates interdisciplinary collaboration to further the mutual goals of the healthcare professions on behalf of quality patient care.
The supercontinent cycle and Earth's long‐term climate
Authors: Nance R. Damian
Published: June 2022

Earth's long‐term climate has been profoundly influenced by the episodic assembly and breakup of supercontinents at intervals of ca. 500 m.y. This reflects the cycle's impact on global sea level and atmospheric CO2 (and other greenhouse gases), the levels of which have fluctuated in response to variations in input from volcanism and removal (as carbonate) by the chemical weathering of silicate minerals. Supercontinent amalgamation tends to coincide with climatic cooling due to drawdown of atmospheric CO2 through enhanced weathering of the orogens of supercontinent assembly and a thermally uplifted supercontinent. Conversely, breakup tends to coincide with increased atmospheric CO2 and global warming as the dispersing continental fragments cool and subside, and weathering decreases as sea level rises. Supercontinents may also influence global climate through their causal connection to mantle plumes and large igneous provinces (LIPs) linked to their breakup. LIPs may amplify the warming trend of breakup by releasing greenhouse gases or may cause cooling and glaciation through sulfate aerosol release and drawdown of CO2 through the chemical weathering of LIP basalts. Hence, Earth's long‐term climatic trends likely reflect the cycle's influence on sea level, as evidenced by Pangea, whereas its influence on LIP volcanism may have orchestrated between Earth's various climatic states.
Exploring ways to enhance pain management for older people with dementia in acute care settings using a Participatory Action Research approach
Authors: Harkin Deirdre , Coates Vivien , Brown Donna
Published: June 2022

Background

Dementia is a progressive condition that leads to reduced cognition, deteriorating communication and is a risk factor for other acute and chronic health problems. The rise in the prevalence of dementia means untreated pain is becoming increasingly common with healthcare staff being challenged to provide optimal pain management. This negatively impacts the person living with dementia and their carers. There is minimal evidence that explores the pain management experience of patients as they move through acute care settings.

Objective

To understand the complexities of managing the pain of older people with dementia as they progress through acute care settings, with the view of assisting staff to improve practice.

Method

A Participatory Action Research approach, guided by the Promoting Action Research in Health Services framework, was used. Three Action Cycles were completed comprising of an exploratory audit and two case studies (Action Cycle One), three focus groups with a total of 14 participants (Action Cycle Two) and the development and implementation of immediate and long‐term actions (Action Cycle Three).

Results

Thematic analysis identified four themes that affected pain management practices. These were not knowing the patient; balancing competing priorities; knowledge and understanding of pain and dementia and not assimilating available information.

Conclusion

Pain management practices for patient living with dementia, across acute care settings, was influenced by shared ways of thinking and working. Not knowing the patient, fragmentation of information and having insufficient knowledge of the subtleties of dementia led participants to deliver task‐focused, target and policy‐driven care that was not person‐centred in its approach. Facilitated reflection enabled acute care teams to actively participate in identifying problems and finding solutions to enhance practice.
Preoperative Use of Aspirin in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Safe or Not?
Authors: Li Zeng , Xiang Shuai , Du Yan , Zhang Mo , Bian Yanyan , Feng Bin , Weng Xisheng
Published: June 2022

Objective

To compare the blood loss, transfusion rates and complications between the aspirin and non‐aspirin group in unilateral and bilateral total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) with a nested case–control design.

Methods

The present study retrospectively selected TKA cases from the Joint Arthroplasty Database at the Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2014 to December 2019 following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, and divided them into the aspirin and non‐aspirin group based on the use of aspirin preoperatively. Bleeding was measured by blood loss, transfusion rate, drainage volume, hemoglobin (HGB) and hematocrit (HCT), while complications (cardiovascular events, venous thromboembolism events, cerebrovascular events and wound events) were compared between the groups. Student's unpaired t‐test and Mann–Whitney U‐test were used to compare the differences of continuous variables between the two groups while chi‐square test and Fisher's exact test were applied in categorical variables.

Results

A total of 560 patients with unilateral TKA and 285 patients with bilateral TKA were extracted. Among these, 280 patients used aspirin preoperatively. No other differences were found in demographic and surgical characteristics between the two groups except for the proportion of coronary artery diseases (P < 0.001). For primary outcomes, there was no significant higher blood loss and transfusion rate in the aspirin group, while the drainage of aspirin group was higher than the control group in bilateral TKAs (P = 0.043). The HGB and HCT of the aspirin group was significant lower in both unilateral and bilateral TKAs at POD5 (P < 0.05). For complications, there was a lower vascular related complication rate in aspirin group after unilateral TKAs (P = 0.040), but the wound event rate in aspirin group was higher than the control group (P = 0.049).

Conclusions

Preoperative use of aspirin could prevent vascular related events during the perioperative period of TKA. However, it might also increase the risk of bleeding and wound complications.
Deep learning fusion of satellite and social information to estimate human migratory flows
Authors: Runfola Daniel , Baier Heather , Mills Laura , Naughton‐Rockwell Maeve , Stefanidis Anthony
Published: June 2022

Human migratory decisions are driven by a wide range of factors, including economic and environmental conditions, conflict, and evolving social dynamics. These factors are reflected in disparate data sources, including household surveys, satellite imagery, and even news and social media. Here, we present a deep learning‐based data fusion technique integrating satellite and census data to estimate migratory flows from Mexico to the United States. We leverage a three‐stage approach, in which we (1) construct a matrix‐based representation of socioeconomic information for each municipality in Mexico, (2) implement a convolutional neural network with both satellite imagery and the constructed socioeconomic matrix, and (3) use the output vectors of information to estimate migratory flows. We find that this approach outperforms alternatives by approximately 10% (r2), suggesting multi‐modal data fusion provides a valuable pathway forward for modeling migratory processes.
Risk factors for mortality in patients with dengue: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chagas Gabriel Cavalcante Lima , Rangel Amanda Ribeiro , Noronha Luísa Macambira , Veloso Felipe Camilo Santiago , Kassar Samir Buainain , Oliveira Michelle Jacintha Cavalcante , Meneses Gdayllon Cavalcante , da Silva Junior Geraldo Bezerra , Daher Elizabeth De Francesco
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate risk factors for mortality in dengue.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis searching MEDLINE, Embase, SciELO, LILACS Bireme, and OpenGrey databases to identify eligible observational studies of patients with dengue, of both genders, aged 14 years or older, that analysed risk factors associated with mortality and reported adjusted risk measures with their respective confidence intervals (CIs). We estimated the pooled weighted mean difference and 95% CIs with a DerSimonian and Laird random‐effects model. We assessed the methodological quality using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale.

Results

Of 1,170 citations reviewed, 18 papers, with a total of 25,851 patients, were included in the systematic review and 12 in the meta‐analysis. Severe hepatitis (OR 29.222, 95% CI 3.876–220.314), dengue shock syndrome (OR 23.575, 95% CI 3.664–151.702), altered mental status (OR 3.76, 95% CI 1.67–8.42), diabetes mellitus (OR 3.698, 95% CI 1.196–11.433), and higher pulse rate (OR 1.039, 95% CI 1.011–1.067) are associated with mortality in patients with dengue. All studies included were classified as having a high quality.

Conclusions

Proper identification and management of these risk factors should be considered to improve patient outcomes and reduce the hidden burden of this neglected tropical disease. Future well‐designed studies are needed to investigate the association of other clinical, radiological, and laboratorial findings with mortality in dengue, as well as to develop prognostic models based on the risk factors found in our study.