bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimisation of COVID‐19 diagnostic pathways in acute hospital admissions to prevent nosocomial transmission
Authors: Livingstone Robert , Woodhead Alexander , Bhandari Megha , Dias James , Smith Trevor , Havelock Tom , Stammers Matthew
Published: August 2022

Introduction

In the management of acute hospital admissions during the COVID‐19 pandemic, safe patient cohorting depends on robust admission diagnostic strategies. It is essential that screening strategies are sensitive and rapid, to prevent nosocomial transmission of COVID‐19 and maintain patient flow.

Methods

We retrospectively identified all COVID‐19 positive and suspected cases at our institution screened by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) between 4 April and 28 June 2020. Using RT‐PCR positivity within 7 days as our reference standard, we assessed sensitivity and net‐benefit of three admission screening strategies: single admission RT‐PCR, composite admission RT‐PCR and CXR and repeat RT‐PCR with 48 h.

Results

RT‐PCR single‐test sensitivity was 91.5% (87.8%–94.4%) versus 97.7% (95.4%–99.1%) (p = 0.025) for RT‐PCR/CXR composite testing and 95.1% (92.1%–97.2%) (p = 0.03) for repeated RT‐PCR. Net‐benefit was 0.83 for single RT‐PCR versus 0.89 for RT‐PCR/CXR and 0.87 for repeated RT‐PCR at 0.02% threshold probability.

Conclusion

The RT‐PCR/CXR composite testing strategy was highly sensitive when screening patients at the point of hospital admission. Real‐world sensitivity of this approach was comparable to repeat RT‐PCR testing within 48 h; however, faster facilitating improved patient flow.
Does restoration success vary with tree size under restoration plantings and regrowth forests?
Authors: Ssekuubwa Enock , van Goor Wouter , Snoep Martijn , Riemer Kars , Wanyama Fredrick , Waiswa Daniel , Yikii Fred , Tweheyo Mnason
Published: August 2022

Several studies evaluate active (i.e., seeding/planting) and passive (i.e., protecting forest regrowth) restoration, but few studies examine successional patterns for different plant sizes. By using biodiversity and structure, we examined whether restoration communities approach old‐growth forests over time, and whether restoration success varies for different tree sizes in both active and passive interventions. We examined how initial site conditions affect active restoration. Small (dbh ≥ 5 cm), medium (≥15 cm), and large trees (≥30 cm) were measured in 2003–2017 in permanent sample plots in restoration plantings (initially 3–8 years old) and in an old‐growth forest in Kibale National Park, Uganda. Trees were also measured in regrowth forests (initially 16 years old) in 2011–2017. We collated information about site conditions from restoration reports. Biodiversity and structure increased over time towards the old‐growth forest. Restoration plantings and regrowth forests recovered diversity and structure of small and medium trees except for large trees. Forest recovery increased with proportions of remnant banana plants and shrubs, while isolation from the old‐growth forest slowed recovery. Disaggregating vegetation inventory data by tree size may be useful in achieving a holistic measure of restoration. Restorationists could prioritize sites with remnant banana plants and shrubs, and sites closer to old‐growth forests in order to achieve better results.
Blastomycosis‐like pyoderma: A pitfall for the misdiagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ilagan Franchesca Marie D. , Wu Yu‐Hung
Published: August 2022

Blastomycosis‐like pyoderma is a rare cutaneous disease presenting as solitary or multiple verrucous or ulcerated plaques and nodules in a susceptible patient. The diagnostic criteria include characteristic verrucous plaques with pustules and elevated borders, histopathologic findings of pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia with abscesses, growth of at least one bacterium in tissue culture, and exclusion of other infectious sources. This report describes a case of a 62‐year‐old man with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus who presented with plaques, nodules, and ulcers in both groins and the right ankle. The patient was initially misdiagnosed with multiple squamous cell carcinomas and underwent several operations. A review of the pathology slides revealed pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia with multiple dermal abscesses, while repeated wound and tissue cultures were positive for coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus. Blastomycosis‐like pyoderma was diagnosed. The patient was subsequently treated with culture‐guided prolonged antibiotic therapy followed by intralesional steroid injection, which led to gradual resolution of the lesions.
Merkel cell number and distribution, and CD200 expression in patients with lichen planopilaris and discoid lupus erythematosus
Authors: Erbağcı Ece , Karaduman Ayşen , Gököz Özay , Evans Sibel Ersoy
Published: August 2022

Background

Immune mechanisms are considered to be responsible for the pathogenesis of cicatricial alopecia in lichen planopilaris (LPP) and discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) diseases. CD200 has an immunomodulatory function in hair follicles. The functions of Merkel cells (MCs) in hair follicles remain to be fully understood.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the number and distribution of MCs as well as CD200 expression in patients with DLE and LPP.

Methods

Using immunohistochemistry, the number and distribution of MCs (staining with CK20) and CD200 expression in biopsy specimens of LPP and DLE patients were compared with control group patients.

Results

The number of follicular MCs, total MCs, mean follicular MCs, and CD200 expression were significantly lower in the case groups compared to the control group. In CD200− cases, the number of follicular MCs and mean follicular MCs were significantly lower than in CD200+ cases. Retrospective design, lack of data regarding the history of alopecia in the control group, and unknown stage of disease in patients were the limitations.

Conclusion

MC loss might play a role in immune privilege collapse in hair follicles. This study is novel in terms of investigating MCs in DLE and LPP patients.
Development of squamous cell carcinoma in the setting of chronic discoid lupus erythematosus may be associated with plasmacytoid dendritic cell inflammation
Authors: Ju Teresa , Ingrasci Giuseppe , Diaz‐Perez Julio A. , Obayomi Aderonke , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: August 2022

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is the most common type of cutaneous lupus and is clinically characterized by alopecia, depigmentation, and scars on sun‐exposed skin. Squamous cell carcinoma is a potential long‐term complication. The most important risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma development in people with dark skin is chronic scarring and inflammation, such as those seen in long‐standing discoid plaques. African Americans who develop squamous cell carcinoma in the setting of chronic scarring and inflammation have a greater risk of metastasis and recurrence compared to sun‐induced squamous cell carcinoma seen in whites. Despite this, the pathogenesis of squamous cell carcinoma development in chronic DLE is not fully understood. Herein, we describe a case of an African American patient who developed squamous cell carcinoma on a long‐standing discoid plaque. Analysis of the lesion revealed a null type pattern of p53 protein expression and abundant CD123+ plasmacytoid dendritic cells, as potential drivers of oncogenesis and inflammation, respectively. Dermatologists should be aware of the increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma development within long‐standing discoid plaques for a prompt early diagnosis and active long‐term surveillance.
Clear cell variant of atypical fibroxanthoma and pleomorphic dermal sarcoma: Molecular characterization and review of the literature
Authors: Coelho‐Lima Jose , Bruty Jonathan , Watkins James , Liu Hongxiang , Price Richard , Stefanos Niki
Published: August 2022

Atypical fibroxanthoma (AFX) and pleomorphic dermal sarcoma (PDS) are unusual cutaneous tumors that typically arise in sun‐damaged skin of elderly individuals. Several histopathologic variants have been described, but the clear cell variant is particularly rare with only 18 cases of AFX and one case of PDS reported. Here, we present two cases of clear cell AFX and PDS highlighting key histopathologic findings and molecular alterations assessed by next‐generation sequencing.
Reptile richness and genetic divergence patterns were shaped by current and past climate in and around the Irano‐Anatolian global biodiversity hotspot: Implications for conservation
Authors: Yousefi Masoud , Kafash Anooshe , Nicolaï Michaël P. J.
Published: August 2022

Aim

The Irano‐Anatolian biodiversity hotspot is among the least‐known biodiversity hotspots on earth. In this study, we aim to map the richness and genetic divergence of lizards in the biodiversity hotspot and its surrounding areas and identify the most important determinants of the richness and genetic divergence patterns.

Location

Iran and Turkey (Irano‐Anatolian biodiversity hotspot).

Methods

Here, we mapped the distribution of 211 lizard species in Iran and Turkey using existing occurrence data and generated the first genetic divergence pattern map of the lizard species in the two countries to identify areas of high species diversity and genetic divergence in the Irano‐Anatolian biodiversity hotspot. We also identified determinants of lizard richness and genetic divergence patterns.

Results

Results showed that the Zagros Mountains, Central Iranian Plateau and the northern Persian Gulf have the highest lizard richness. The Zagros Mountains, Central Iranian Plateau, the northern Persian Gulf and the regions around the Lut Desert and Jazmourian Plain have the highest total genetic divergence in Iran. Alborz and Kopet Dag mountains and south western parts of Turkey have the highest average genetic divergence. The annual temperature was the most important predictor of lizard richness, and temperature change velocity was the most influential determinant of genetic divergence pattern. Much to our surprise, species diversity and most areas with high genetic divergence are located outside of Irano‐Anatolian biodiversity hotspot.

Main conclusions

This study showed that lizard richness and genetic divergence patterns are associated with current and past climate. In particular, this study highlights the legacy of past climate changes on lizard genetic divergence distribution patterns. We showed that most of the species‐rich and genetically diverse regions are located outside of the biodiversity hotspot. So conservation efforts that are concentrated inside the biodiversity hotspot may not benefit lizard biodiversity conservation. Thus, future studies and conservation programs on the biodiversity hotspot should also consider its surrounding areas.
Reproductive dispersion and damping time scale with life‐history speed
Authors: Jiang Sha , Jaggi Harman , Zuo Wenyun , Oli Madan K. , Coulson Tim , Gaillard Jean‐Michel , Tuljapurkar Shripad
Published: August 2022

Iteroparous species may reproduce at many different ages, resulting in a reproductive dispersion that affects the damping of population perturbations, and varies among life histories. Since generation time () is known to capture aspects of life‐history variation, such as life‐history speed, does also determine reproductive dispersion () or damping time ()? Using phylogenetically corrected analyses on 633 species of animals and plants, we find, firstly, that reproductive dispersion scales isometrically with . Secondly, and unexpectedly, we find that the damping time () does not scale isometrically with generation time, but instead changes only as with (also, there is a similar scaling with ). This non‐isometric scaling implies a novel demographic contrast: increasing generation times correspond to a proportional increase in reproductive dispersion, but only to a slower increase in the damping time. Thus, damping times are partly decoupled from the slow‐fast continuum, and are determined by factors other than allometric constraints.
Guidelines for improving statistical analyses of validation datasets for plant pest diagnostic tests
Authors: Massart Sebastien , Lebas Benedicte , Chabirand Aude , Chappé Anne‐Marie , Dreo Tanja , Faggioli Francesco , Harrison Catherine , Macarthur Roy , Mehle Natasha , Mezzalama Monica , Petter Françoise , Ravnikar Maja , Renvoisé Jean‐Philippe , Spadaro Davide , Tomassoli Laura , Tomlinson Jenny , Trontin Charlotte , van der Vlugt René , Vučurović Ana , Weekes Rebecca , Brostaux Yves
Published: August 2022

Appropriate statistical analysis of the validation data for diagnostic tests facilitates the evaluation of the performance criteria and increases the confidence in the conclusions drawn from these data. A comprehensive approach to analysing and reporting data from validation studies and inter‐laboratory comparisons such as test performance studies is described. The proposed methods, including statistical analyses, presentation and interpretation of the data, are illustrated using a real dataset generated during a test performance study conducted in the framework of the European project, VALITEST. This analytical approach uses, wherever possible and whenever applicable, statistical analyses recommended by international standards illustrating their application to plant health diagnostic tests. The present work is addressed to plant health diagnosticians and researchers interested and/or involved in the validation of plant diagnostic tests, and also aims to convey the necessary information to those without a statistical background. Detailed statistical explanations are provided in the Appendices.
Public university research engagement contradictions in a commercialising higher education world
Authors: Parker Lee D
Published: August 2022

This paper aims to critically assess the impact of public university commercialisation on research engagement and practice relevance. Recent decades have seen dramatic changes in university environments, identities and missions, as well as in government and private sector funding and involvement. As increasingly commercialised and corporatised organisations, universities have increasingly mimicked private sector hierarchical organisation structures, professionally managed and subject to performance management via proliferating management control systems. From accumulated prior research, this paper finds university research now primarily conducted for the private rather than public good, researchers being subject to and tailoring their endeavors to conform with proliferating metrics focused university management control systems. External engagement appears as a university impression management strategy, while internally, researchers are still compelled to pursue a contradictory focus on high‐status self‐referential journal publication venues. This contradictory environment is found to have produced an increasing distance between university research and professional practice and between research and professional communities.
Impact of the use of different temperature‐dependent larval development functions on estimates of potential large‐scale connectivity of American lobster
Authors: Quinn Brady K. , Chassé Joël , Rochette Rémy
Published: August 2022

The way in which the effect of temperature on the development rate of crustacean larvae is simulated in larval dispersal models potentially impacts the inferences made about population recruitment and connectivity. In this study, we contrasted dispersal and connectivity predictions made by a large‐scale dispersal model of American lobster (Homarus americanus H. Milne Edwards, 1837) larvae using three temperature‐dependent larval development functions proposed in the literature: (1) “warm‐source lab”, (2) “warm‐source field”, and (3) “cold‐source lab”. Differences in predictions using each function were contrasted in the northern (colder) and southern (warmer) portions of the species' range. Using these different development functions resulted in significant and marked differences (61.3–162.4 km in the north and 30.9–81.9 km in the south) in the distances dispersed by larvae from hatch to settlement. In general, predicted self‐seeding, retention, and local connectivity were increased, and predicted connectivity among distant locations was decreased, when a function predicting faster development was used. The field‐derived function predicted much less connectivity and decreased dispersal overall than both lab‐derived functions. The cold‐source lab function predicted more retention in northern regions, but less in southern regions, than the warm‐source lab function. Our findings indicate the need for more studies to quantify the rate at which lobster larvae develop in nature, including how this may vary over space and time.
Establishment of the Japanese version of the dementia stigma assessment scale
Authors: Noguchi Taiji , Shang Erhua , Nakagawa Takeshi , Komatsu Ayane , Murata Chiyoe , Saito Tami
Published: August 2022

Aim

Reducing stigma against dementia is a global challenge, but the assessment scale is not well established. We examined the validity and reliability of the Japanese version of the assessment scale of public stigma against dementia.

Methods

This study recruited 819 adults aged 20–69 years (mean age = 45.9 years; 52.0% females) through an internet survey, and 34 community‐dwelling adults aged 20–78 years (mean age = 45.8 years; 55.9% females). Participants completed the Japanese version of the assessment scale of dementia stigma developed by Phillipson et al., with forward and back translations. In the internet survey sample, exploratory factor analysis was performed to verify factorial validity, and correlations with ageism and dementia attitudes were examined to test the concurrent validity. In the community sample, test–retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) between two responses with a two‐week interval.

Results

Factor analysis revealed a four‐factor structure: “personal avoidance,” “fear of labeling,” “person centeredness,” and “fear of discrimination” (Cronbach's α = 0.892, 0.840, 0.879, 0.829, respectively). Personal avoidance, fear of labeling, and fear of discrimination were positively correlated with ageism (r = 0.598, 0.214, 0.369) and negatively correlated with dementia attitudes (r = −0.745, −0.453, −0.475); person centeredness was inversely correlated with ageism (r = −0.322), but positively correlated with dementia attitudes (r = 0.537), showing good concurrent validity. The scale showed acceptable test–retest reliability (ICCs = 0.67–0.80).

Conclusions

The Japanese version of the assessment scale of public stigma against dementia was established with good concurrent validity and adequate reliability. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 790–796.
Challenges and Experiences of Managed Aquifer Recharge in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area
Authors: Palma Nava Adriana , Parker Timothy K. , Carmona Paredes Rafael B.
Published: August 2022

The Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA) is a significant and important urban center in North America, covering an area of approximately 9500 km2 with a population of almost 23 million, yet the water supply remains unsustainable. The total water demand in the MCMA is 84 m3/s and is provided by groundwater (63% or 53 m3/s), imported water (27% or 23 m3/s) and recycled water (10% or 8 m3/s). The natural recharge of the MCMA aquifer is approximately 23 m3/s, indicating an overexploitation of groundwater resources of approximately 25 m3/s (800 Mm3 annually), a reasonable future goal for recharge in the MCMA. Hydrologic analysis indicates two main opportunities currently to increase water supply in the MCMA: indirect water reuse with recycled water and managed aquifer recharge (MAR) with storm water. An inventory of MAR project case studies in the MCMA summarizes methods for recharge, water sources, geographical distribution, and the main results obtained in each project for the last 80 years. The inventory consists of 21 MCMA area MAR case studies including (1) conceptual, (2) design level, and (3) pilot‐ to full‐scale facilities, only some of which have operated for relatively short periods of time, with one remaining MAR project currently operational. The review found that beyond the technical and economic issues that MAR project design normally address, the existing regulatory framework and the continuous change in water district chairs in charge of the operation and supply of water are significant barriers to increasing MAR in the MCMA.
Analysis of fibrinogen concentrate pharmacokinetics and dosing for bleeds and surgery in adults, adolescents, and children with congenital afibrinogenaemia and hypofibrinogenaemia
Authors: Djambas Khayat Claudia , Lohade Sunil D. , Zekavat Omid R. , Kruzhkova Irina , Solomon Cristina , Knaub Sigurd , Peyvandi Flora
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Congenital afibrinogenaemia and hypofibrinogenaemia are rare coagulation disorders where clotting is impaired due to a lack of fibrinogen. Consequent bleeding episodes (BEs) are treated using human fibrinogen concentrate (HFC).

Aim

This post‐hoc analysis compared HFC pharmacokinetics (PK) and dosing between patient age groups and defined the in vivo recovery (IVR) for children with a‐ and hypofibrinogenaemia.

Methods

The analysis used data from the FORMA‐01 (Phase 2), FORMA‐02 and FORMA‐04 (Phase 3) multinational, prospective, open‐label studies in patients with a‐ and hypofibrinogenaemia. HFC PK in adults/adolescents (≥12 years; FORMA‐01) and children (<12 years; FORMA‐04) was examined. Haemostatic efficacy in BE treatment and perioperative prophylaxis was examined in FORMA‐02 and FORMA‐04 using an objective 4‐point scale, with success defined as excellent/good.

Results

Median (range) age was 23 years for FORMA‐01 (12–53; n = 22), 26.5 years for FORMA‐02 (12–54; n = 25), and 6 years for FORMA‐04 (1–10; n = 13). Mean PK parameters were lower for children (AUC, Cmax, IVR; p = .02), while clearance was higher. Median (range) total dose of HFC for all BEs was 59.41 mg/kg (32.12–273.80) in adults/adolescents and was 24% higher (ns) in children at 73.91 mg/kg (47.45–262.50). Treatment was successful in 98.9% of the 89 BEs in adults/adolescents and in 100% of the 10 BEs in children, with comparable results for perioperative prophylaxis.

Conclusion

As expected, HFC PK differed between adults/adolescents and children. However, with the higher doses given to children, HFC showed similar efficacy across age groups. Dose adaptation based on age groups appears recommendable.
Health‐risk behaviours co‐occur among children with untreated caries
Authors: Nouraei Nastaran , Sabbah Wael
Published: August 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine whether an aggregate of health risk behaviours is associated with the number of untreated dental caries among 12‐ and 15‐year‐old children in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Materials and Methods

Data were from the Children's Dental Health Survey (CDHS) 2013, a nationally representative sample of England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The survey included assessment of oral health and data on socioeconomic, demographic and behavioural factors pertaining to children aged 12–15 years. Tooth condition (decayed, missing and filled) was assessed by NHS dentists. The survey included questions on age, sex, country, index of multiple deprivation, smoking, alcohol consumption, frequent sugar consumption and sweetened sodas, infrequent dental visit, infrequent toothbrushing and infrequent consumption of fresh fruits. Health risk behaviours were summed up to create an aggregate variable of health risk behaviour. The association between number of untreated caries and the aggregate of health risk behaviours was assessed using negative binomial regression and adjusting for age, sex, country and deprivation.

Results

The total number of children included in the analysis was 4414. The mean number of untreated caries was generally higher among children with health risk behaviours. The aggregate of risk behaviour was associated with greater prevalence of untreated dental caries with rate ratio (RR) 1.26 (95% confidence interval: 1.18, 1.36).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated an association between an aggregate of health risk behaviours and untreated caries. The findings highlight the importance of addressing multiple risk factors not only those directly related to dental caries.
Use of an antiseptic rinse (NanArgol) for the oral hygiene maintenance of subjects with fixed appliances: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Latuta Nadezda , Corbella Stefano , Taschieri Silvio , Diachkova Ekaterina , Tarasenko Svetlana , Oksentyuk Alina , Trifonova Daria , Admakin Oleg
Published: August 2022

Background

The risk of periodontal diseases development increased in patients with malocclusion undergoing orthodontic treatment. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the efficacy of the use of adjunctive rinses with nano‐Argentum to standard oral hygiene regimen in subjects wearing fixed orthodontic appliances.

Materials and Methods

Eighty patients were observed for 1 year. They were divided in two groups: in test group patients were instructed to rinse with non‐ionic colloidal silver solution according to protocol for 6 months as an adjunct to standard; in control group the patients followed the standard oral hygiene regimen. Index of efficiency of oral hygiene (PHPm), community periodontal index (CPI) and papillary‐marginal‐alveolar index (PMA) were evaluated before treatment and after 1 and 6 months. For statistics analysis, Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis tests and Pearson criterion were used.

Results

Baseline hygiene levels in two groups had no differences. Oral hygiene indices were significantly lower in the test group in comparison with control after 1 month (PHPm = 0.38 ± 0.18 and 1.19 ± 0.45, respectively, p < 0.01; PMA = 11.78 ± 8.5 and 47.25 ± 20.9, respectively, p < 0.05; CPI = 0.65 ± 0.53 and 1.53 ± 0.77, respectively, p < 0.01) and 6 months (PHPm = 0.5 ± 0.2 and 1.2 ± 0.4, respectively, p < 0.01; PMA = 11.62 ± 19.6 and 66.33 ± 27.9, respectively, p < 0.01; CPI = 0.63 ± 0.73 and 1.68 ± 0.78, respectively, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The use of the test solution as an adjunct to standard oral hygiene provided a significant beneficial effect in terms of oral hygiene in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Fabrication and properties of SiCnw‐reinforced SiC composites by reactive melt infiltration with BN and PyC interface
Authors: Zhu Mingming , Liu Dongxu , Yang Jiahao , Hou Hongchen , Li Haolin , Chen Jianjun
Published: August 2022

To tailor the fiber–matrix interface of SiC nanowires‐reinforced SiC (SiCnw/SiC) ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) for improved mechanical properties, SiC nanowires were coated with BN and pyrolytic carbon (PyC) compound coatings prepared by the dip‐coating process in boric acid and urea solution and the pyrolysis of phenolic resin. SiCnw/SiC CMC with PyC/BN interfaces were fabricated by reactive melt infiltration (RMI) at 1680°C for 1 h. The influences of phenolic resin content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the CMC were investigated. The results showed that the flexural strength and fracture toughness reach the maximum values of 294 MPa and 4.74 MPa m1/2 as the phenolic resin content was 16 and 12 wt%, respectively. The displacement–load curve of the sample exhibited a gradient drop with increasing phenolic resin content up to 12 wt%. The results demonstrated that the PyC/BN compound coatings could play the role of protecting the SiCnw from degradation as well as improving the more moderate interfacial bonding strengths during the RMI.
Motivations for engaging in or avoiding conversations about weight: Adolescent and parent perspectives
Authors: Puhl Rebecca M. , Lessard Leah M. , Pudney Ellen V. , Foster Gary D. , Cardel Michelle I.
Published: August 2022

Background

Little is known about parent and adolescent motivations for engaging in weight communication.

Objectives

To assess parent and adolescent motivations for engaging in, or avoiding, weight communication, and whether these reasons differed across sex, race/ethnicity, weight, and engagement in weight management.

Methods

Independent samples of parents (N = 1936) and unrelated adolescents (N = 2032) completed questionnaires assessing their agreement with different reasons they engage in, or avoid, parent‐adolescent weight communication, using 7‐point Likert scales (strongly‐disagree to strongly‐agree).

Results

Parents, irrespective of sex, race/ethnicity, and child's weight status, expressed stronger motivations for engaging in weight communication in order for their child to feel good about his/her weight and body size compared to being motivated because a health professional raised their child's weight as a concern. Adolescent motivations for weight communication with parents stemmed from health concerns and worry about their weight; avoidance stemmed from feeling embarrassed, upset, or not wanting to obsess about weight. Differences emerged across sex and race/ethnicity but were most pronounced by weight status and weight management.

Conclusion

Parents and adolescents have different motivations for engaging in or avoiding weight communication. Protecting adolescents' emotional wellbeing and body esteem are viewed as reasons for both engaging in or avoiding weight communication.
Investigating the effects of population density of residence and rural/urban classification on rate of influenza‐like illness symptoms in England and Wales
Authors: Tunnicliffe Louis , Warren‐Gash Charlotte
Published: August 2022

Background

Better understanding of risk factors for influenza could help improve seasonal and pandemic planning. There is a dearth of literature on area‐level risk factors such as population density and rural/urban living.

Methods

We used data from Flusurvey, an online community‐based cohort that records influenza events. The study outcome was symptoms of influenza‐like illness (ILI). Multivariable Poisson regression analysis was used to explore associations of both population density and rural/urban status with rate of ILI symptoms and whether these effects differed by vaccination status.

Results

Of the 6177 study participants, the median age was 45 (IQR 32–57), 65.73% were female, and 66% reported at least one episode of ILI symptoms between 2011 and 2016. We found no evidence to suggest that the rate of ILI symptoms was higher in the medium [RR 1.02 (95% CI 0.95–1.09)] or high [RR 1.02 (95% CI 0.96–1.09)] population density group versus the low population density group. This was the same for the effect of urban living [RR 0.96 (95% CI 0.90–1.03)] versus rural living on symptom rate. There was weak evidence to suggest that the ILI symptom rate was lower in urban areas compared with rural areas among unvaccinated individuals only [RR 0.90 (95% CI 0.83–0.99)], whereas no difference was seen among vaccinated individuals [1.04 (95% CI 0.94–1.16)].

Conclusions

Although neither population density nor rural/urban status was associated with ILI symptom rate in this community cohort, future research that incorporates activity and contact patterns will help to elucidate this relationship further.
Clinical efficacy of wet dressing combined with chitosan wound dressing in the treatment of deep second‐degree burn wounds: A prospective, randomised, single‐blind, positive control clinical trial
Authors: Hu Jialin , Lin Yuesen , Cui Chengshuo , Zhang Fangfang , Su Tingting , Guo Kaiyu , Chen Tiannan
Published: August 2022

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of wet dressing combined with chitosan wound dressing for deep II degree burn wounds, and provide the basis for clinical application. From October 2019 to October 2021, 80 patients with second‐degree deep burn treated in the Department of burn and plastic surgery of our hospital were selected as the research objects. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. The control group (40n) was treated with wet compress, and the study group (40n) was treated with wet compress combined with chitosan wound dressing. The wound healing time, wound healing percentage and pain score were used as the effectiveness indexes, and the incidence of adverse events and serious adverse events and the detection rate of bacterial culture of wound exudates were used as the safety indexes. The efficacy and safety of the two groups were compared. The wound healing time of the study group (19.53 ± 2.74 days) was shorter than that of the control group (24.78 ± 4.86 days), the difference was significant (t = 3.571, P = 0.015). The percentage of wound healing at the 14th after treatment in the study group was higher than that in the control group (65.00% versus 37.50%) (X2 = 6.054, P = 0.014). There was no significant difference in pain scores between the two groups at each time point. The scar growth was observed 3 months after wound healing. The scar score of the study group (6.00 ± 0.98) was lower than that of the control group (8.77 ± 1.19) (t = 2.571, P = 0.031). The positive rate of wound secretion culture on the 7th and 14th day was statistically significant (X2 = 4.528, P = 0.033; X2 = 6.646, P = 0.010), and the study group was lower than the control group (29.03% versus 81.82%; 8.11% versus 42.86%). There was no significant difference in treatment cost between the study group and the control group (1258.7 ± 223.6 versus 1248.9 ± 182.3) (t = 1.571, P = 0.071). No adverse events or serious adverse events occurred in both groups. Chitosan wound dressing can significantly shorten the time of wound healing and reduce wound pain and wound infection in patients with deep second‐degree burns. And it can effectively improve the situation of scar hyperplasia, which is worthy of clinical application.
Er:YAG/Yb:YAG nanopowders‐derived Er/Yb co‐doped yttrium aluminosilicate (YAS) fibers fabricated by UV‐curable nanocomposites for 1.5‐µm single‐frequency fiber lasers
Authors: Zheng Baoluo , Qi Fuxin , Yang Jing , li Biao , Liu Jinming , Zhang Xin , Hou Yubin , Zhang Qian , Wang Pu
Published: August 2022

The rare‐earth (RE)‐doped yttrium aluminosilicate (YAS) glass fibers have demonstrated their unique advantages in single‐frequency lasers due to their high solubility of RE ions and high gain per unit length. However, the RE‐doped YAS fiber is usually fabricated by RE:YAG crystal or ceramic rods and melting‐in‐tube method, which depend heavily on RE:YAG crystal or ceramic rods and, thus, cannot adjust the fiber compositions effectively; there is little research on the multiple RE ions co‐doped YAS fiber deriving from RE:YAG crystal or ceramic rods. In present work, we developed a novel method to fabricate Er/Yb co‐doped YAS fibers efficiently. The Er:YAG and Yb:YAG nanopowders were fabricated by the coprecipitation method, and then the nanopowders were dispersed into liquid organic resin to form a novel UV‐curable nanocomposite, after curing, debinding, purifying, and drawing process, an Er/Yb co‐doped YAS fibers was fabricated, the absorption coefficients of the fiber was measured to be 17 dB/cm at 976 nm (2F7/2ground level to2F5/2level of Yb and4I15/2ground level to4I11/2level of Er) and 3.2 dB/cm at 1530 nm (4I15/2ground level to the high states of4I13/2of Er). A 1.5‐µm single‐frequency laser was constructed with the 2‐cm Er/Yb co‐doped YAS fiber. The longitudinal mode spacing was calculated to be 2.2 GHz with an effective cavity length of 4.5 cm, and the spectral signal‐to‐noise ratio was higher than 60 dB. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that Er/Yb co‐doped YAS fibers are fabricated using the UV‐curable nanocomposites. It indicates that this proposed technology is critical for the fabrication of various types of RE ions co‐doped YAS fibers and their applications in single‐frequency fiber lasers.
Lipidomic analysis reveals altered lipid profiles of gingival tissues with periodontitis
Authors: Zhou Min , Li Chen , Han Xue , Yu Bohan , Yan Xiang‐zhen , Zhang Yan , Yang Xiao‐juan
Published: August 2022

Aim

The role of lipids in periodontitis has not been well studied. Thus, this study aimed to explore periodontitis‐associated lipid profile changes and identify differentially expressed lipid metabolites in gingival tissues.

Materials and Methods

Gingival tissues from 38 patients with periodontitis (periodontitis group) and 38 periodontally healthy individuals (control group) were collected. A ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry‐based non‐targeted metabolomics platform was used to identify and compare the lipid profiles of the two groups. The distribution and expression of related proteins were subsequently analysed via immunohistochemistry to further validate the identified lipids.

Results

Lipid profiles significantly differed between the two groups, and 20 differentially expressed lipid species were identified. Lysophosphatidylcholines (lysoPCs), diacylglycerols (DGs), and phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs) were significantly up‐regulated, while triacylglycerols (TGs) were downregulated in the periodontitis group. Moreover, the staining intensity of ABHD5/CGI‐58, secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2), and sPLA2‐IIA was significantly stronger in the gingival tissues of patients with periodontitis than in those of healthy controls.

Conclusions

LysoPCs, DGs, and PEs were significantly up‐regulated, whereas TGs were down‐regulated in gingival tissues of patients with periodontitis. Correspondingly, the immunohistochemical staining of ABHD5/CGI‐58, sPLA2, and sPLA2‐IIA in gingival tissues was consistent with the downstream production of lipid classes (lysoPCs, TGs, and DGs).
Improved diagnosis by automated macro‐ and micro‐anatomical region mapping of skin photographs
Authors: Amruthalingam L. , Gottfrois P. , Gonzalez Jimenez A. , Gökduman B. , Kunz M. , Koller T. ,   DERMANATOMY Consortium, Pouly M. , Navarini A.A.
Published: August 2022

Background

The exact location of skin lesions is key in clinical dermatology. On one hand, it supports differential diagnosis (DD) since most skin conditions have specific predilection sites. On the other hand, location matters for dermatosurgical interventions. In practice, lesion evaluation is not well standardized and anatomical descriptions vary or lack altogether. Automated determination of anatomical location could benefit both situations.

Objective

Establish an automated method to determine anatomical regions in clinical patient pictures and evaluate the gain in DD performance of a deep learning model (DLM) when trained with lesion locations and images.

Methods

Retrospective study based on three datasets: macro‐anatomy for the main body regions with 6000 patient pictures partially labelled by a student, micro‐anatomy for the ear region with 182 pictures labelled by a student and DD with 3347 pictures of 16 diseases determined by dermatologists in clinical settings. For each dataset, a DLM was trained and evaluated on an independent test set. The primary outcome measures were the precision and sensitivity with 95% CI. For DD, we compared the performance of a DLM trained with lesion pictures only with a DLM trained with both pictures and locations.

Results

The average precision and sensitivity were 85% (CI 84–86), 84% (CI 83–85) for macro‐anatomy, 81% (CI 80–83), 80% (CI 77–83) for micro‐anatomy and 82% (CI 78–85), 81% (CI 77–84) for DD. We observed an improvement in DD performance of 6% (McNemar test P‐value 0.0009) for both average precision and sensitivity when training with both lesion pictures and locations.

Conclusion

Including location can be beneficial for DD DLM performance. The proposed method can generate body region maps from patient pictures and even reach surgery relevant anatomical precision, e.g. the ear region. Our method enables automated search of large clinical databases and make targeted anatomical image retrieval possible.
Definitions of remission in psoriasis: a systematic literature review from the National Psoriasis Foundation
Authors: Balak D.M.W. , Perez‐Chada L.M. , Guo L.N. , Mita C , Armstrong A.W. , Bell S.J. , Gondo G.C. , Liao W. , Merola J.F.
Published: August 2022

Psoriasis studies increasingly employ outcomes that indicate complete disease resolution, yet remission and cure are poorly defined for psoriasis. We conducted a systematic literature review to identify definitions of psoriasis remission and cure reported in the literature. Medline, EMBASE, and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched on July 22, 2020, for full‐text studies providing definitions for psoriasis remission/cure. Definitions were analysed descriptively for endpoint, time‐frame, on/off treatment, patient‐reported outcomes, and disease domains. We identified 106 studies that provided 41 unique remission definitions. Most definitions included endpoints based on Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), such as PASI75 (n = 16 studies), PASI90 (n = 10), PASI100 (n = 10), and PASI of 0 (n = 3), and descriptive endpoints related to ‘skin clearance’ (n = 18). Few definitions specified time‐frame, on/off treatment or other psoriasis‐related disease domains. One small consensus‐initiative defined drug‐free remission for plaque psoriasis by BSA of 0 without any therapy for at least 12 months. While there is no cure for psoriasis, seven studies defined psoriasis cure using similar endpoints to those used to define remission. We identified a variety of definitions of psoriasis remission. These results will inform the development of consensus‐based definitions for psoriasis remission to support efforts to improve research and clinical outcomes.
How to induce ant–plant interactions: Seed baiting to enhance its dispersal as a tool for restoration
Authors: Ortiz Daniela P. , Elizalde Luciana , Pirk Gabriela I.
Published: August 2022

In degraded drylands, direct sowing is one of the most widespread revegetation practices, but its efficiency is low and usually seed enhancement techniques are needed to increase its success. We evaluated how to induce seed dispersal by ants (myrmecochory), as this interaction could improve the chances of seed germination and seedling establishment, via seed transport to ants' nests where seeds are protected and the soils enriched. Our objective was to develop seeds with the addition of baits attractive to ants without affecting seed germination. First, we tested the attractiveness of baits of different sizes and ingredients by performing cafeteria experiments in nests of the omnivorous ant Dorymyrmex tener, the most abundant and effective seed disperser ant in the Patagonian steppe. Then, we attached the most preferred baits (small baits containing pate, sugar and clay) to seeds of two native plants species (Acaena splendens and Oenothera odorata) with relevant characteristics for restoration purposes and tested their attractiveness to ants. We used different strategies to attach the bait to the seeds (e.g. encrusted, agglomerate and seeds on the surface) looking for the most attractive and simplest one. We found that only baited seeds were removed and the interaction was induced regardless of the way the bait was attached. Also, germination of seeds with bait was similar to that of seeds without bait in O. odorata, but reduced in A. splendens. We showed that it is possible to encourage ants to transport previously non‐attractive seeds through the design of baits, potentially improving direct sowing efficiency.
Can we use temperature measurements to identify pre‐symptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in nursing home residents?
Authors: Elhamamsy Salaheldin , DeVone Frank , Bayer Thomas , Halladay Chris , Cadieux Marilyne , McConeghy Kevin , Rajan Ashna , Sachar Moniyka , Mujahid Nadia , Singh Mriganka , Nanda Aman , McNicoll Lynn , Rudolph James L. , Gravenstein Stefan
Published: August 2022

Background

COVID‐19 has had a severe impact on morbidity and mortality among nursing home (NH) residents. Earlier detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 may position us to better mitigate the risk of spread. Both asymptomatic and pre‐symptomatic transmission are common in outbreaks, and threshold temperatures, such as 38C, for screening for infection could miss timely detection in the majority of residents. We hypothesized that in long‐term care residents, temperature trends with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection could identify infection in pre‐symptomatic individuals earlier than standard screening.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using electronic health records in 6176 residents of the VA NHs who underwent SARS‐CoV‐2 testing triggered by symptoms. We collected information about age and other demographics, baseline temperature, and specific comorbidities. We created standardized definitions, and a hypothetical model to test measures of temperature variation and compare outcomes to the VA standard of care.

Results

We showed that a change from baseline of 0.4C identified 47% of NH residents who became SARS‐CoV‐2 positive, earlier than standard testing by an average of 42.2 h. Temperature variability of 0.5C over 3 days when paired with a 37.2C temperature cutoff identified 55% of NH residents who became SARS‐CoV‐2 positive earlier than the standard of care testing by an average of 44.4 h. A change from baseline temperature of 0.4C when combined with temperature variability of 0.7C over 3 days identified 52% of NH residents who became SARS‐CoV‐2 positive, earlier than standard testing by an average of 40 h, and by more than 3 days in 22% of the residents. This earlier detection comes at the expense of triggering 57,793 tests, as compared to the number of trigger tests ordered in the VA system of 40,691.

Conclusions

Our model suggests that early temperature trends with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection may identify infection in pre‐symptomatic long‐term care residents.
Arabidopsis mitochondrial single‐stranded DNA‐binding proteins SSB1 and SSB2 are essential regulators of mtDNA replication and homologous recombination
Authors: Qian Jie , Zheng Min , Wang Lingyu , Song Yu , Yan Jiawen , Hsu Yi‐Feng
Published: August 2022

Faithful DNA replication is one of the most essential processes in almost all living organisms. However, the proteins responsible for organellar DNA replication are still largely unknown in plants. Here, we show that the two mitochondrion‐targeted single‐stranded DNA‐binding (SSB) proteins SSB1 and SSB2 directly interact with each other and act as key factors for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) maintenance, as their single or double loss‐of‐function mutants exhibit severe germination delay and growth retardation. The mtDNA levels in mutants lacking SSB1 and/or SSB2 function were two‐ to four‐fold higher than in the wild‐type (WT), revealing a negative role for SSB1/2 in regulating mtDNA replication. Genetic analysis indicated that SSB1 functions upstream of mitochondrial DNA POLYMERASE IA (POLIA) or POLIB in mtDNA replication, as mutation in either gene restored the high mtDNA copy number of the ssb1‐1 mutant back to WT levels. In addition, SSB1 and SSB2 also participate in mitochondrial genome maintenance by influencing mtDNA homologous recombination (HR). Additional genetic analysis suggested that SSB1 functions upstream of ORGANELLAR SINGLE‐STRANDED DNA‐BINDING PROTEIN1 (OSB1) during mtDNA replication, while SSB1 may act downstream of OSB1 and MUTS HOMOLOG1 for mtDNA HR. Overall, our results yield new insights into the roles of the plant mitochondrion‐targeted SSB proteins and OSB1 in maintaining mtDNA stability via affecting DNA replication and DNA HR.