bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Light and transmission electron microscopic evaluation of the lamina epithelialis mucosae in the ileum of pre‐ and post‐hatch broiler chicken
Authors: Udoumoh Anietie Francis , Nwaogu Innocent Chima , Igwebuike Udensi Maduabuchi , Obidike Ikechukwu Reginald
Published: December 2021

Morphological development of the lamina epithelialis mucosae (LEM) of the ileum of broiler chicken was evaluated using light and transmission electron microscopic techniques. Ileal sections were collected on embryonic days (ED) 14, 17 and 19, as well as post‐hatch days (PD) 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42 and 56. The result showed that the ileal LEM, which were poorly defined at embryonic days 14 and 17, consisted of enterocytes and some atypically shaped goblet cells. Apico‐lateral tight junctions and irregularly shaped microvilli were associated with the enterocytes at ED 14 and 17. The enterocyte microvilli were more uniform in shape and distribution at ED 19. The embryonic goblet cells were varied in shape and possessed basally displaced, star‐shaped nuclei and small apical cytoplasmic vacuoles. During the post‐hatch ages, the LEM was a typical epithelium with a single layer of columnar‐shaped enterocytes that became highly elongated at post‐hatch day (PD) 7. The goblet cells were characteristically ‘wine‐glass’ shaped. Follicle‐associated epithelium (FAE) showing numerous lymphocytes among the enterocytes occurred in the post‐hatch LEM. The intra‐epithelial lymphocytes (IEL) were first encountered at PD 1, but increased several folds within the first two weeks post‐hatch. Entero‐endocrine cells were observed in the epithelium from PD 21. Finally, from this study, it is obvious that enterocytes and small atypically shaped goblet cells occur in the ileal LEM during the pre‐hatch period, but these cells assume adult morphological characteristics after hatch. Thus, the cells of the ileal LEM play strategic absorptive, secretory and protective roles in the gut.
The economic impact of machine perfusion technology in liver transplantation
Authors: Boteon Yuri L. , Hessheimer Amelia J. , Brüggenwirth Isabel M. A. , Boteon Amanda P. C. S. , Padilla María , de Meijer Vincent E. , Domínguez‐Gil Beatriz , Porte Robert J. , Perera M. Thamara P. R. , Martins Paulo N.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Several clinical studies have demonstrated the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of machine perfusion in liver transplantation, although its economic outcomes are still underexplored. This review aimed to examine the costs related to machine perfusion and its associated outcomes.

Methods

Expert opinion of several groups representing different machine perfusion modalities. Critical analysis of the published literature reporting the economic outcomes of the most used techniques of machine perfusion in liver transplantation (normothermic and hypothermic ex situ machine perfusion and in situ normothermic regional perfusion).

Results

Machine perfusion costs include disposable components of the perfusion device, perfusate components, personnel and facility fees, and depreciation of the perfusion device or device lease fee. The limited current literature suggests that although this upfront cost varies between perfusion modalities, its use is highly likely to be cost‐effective. Optimization of the donor liver utilization rate, local conditions of transplant programs (long waiting list times and higher MELD scores), a decreased rate of complications, changes in logistics, and length of hospital stay are potential cost savings points that must highlight the expected benefits of this intervention. An additional unaccounted factor is that machine perfusion optimizing donor organ utilization allows patients to be transplanted earlier, avoiding clinical deterioration while on the waiting list and the costs associated with hospital admissions and other required procedures.

Conclusion

So far, the clinical benefits have guided machine perfusion implementation in liver transplantation. Albeit there is data suggesting the economic benefit of the technique, further investigation of its costs to healthcare systems and society and associated outcomes is needed.
Real‐world outcomes of rapid regional hepatitis C virus treatment scale‐up among people who inject drugs in Tayside, Scotland
Authors: Byrne Christopher J. , Beer Lewis , Inglis Sarah K. , Robinson Emma , Radley Andrew , Goldberg David J. , Hickman Matthew , Hutchinson Sharon , Dillon John F.
Published: December 2021

Background

In 2017, Tayside, a region in the East of Scotland, rapidly scaled‐up Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) outreach and treatment among People Who Inject Drugs (PWID) using novel community care pathways.

Aims

We aimed to determine treatment outcomes for PWID during the scale‐up against pre‐determined targets; and assess re‐infection, mortality, and post‐treatment follow up.

Methods

HCV treatment was delivered in community pharmacies, drug treatment centres, nurse‐led outreach clinics, prisons, and needle exchanges, alongside conventional hospital care. We retrospectively analysed clinical outcomes and compared pathways using logistic regression models.

Results

Of 800 estimated HCV‐infected PWID, 718 (90%) were diagnosed. 713 treatments commenced among 662 (92%) PWID, delivering 577 (81%) Sustained Virologic Responses (SVR). SVR was 91% among those who attended for testing. Forty‐six individuals were treated more than once. Needle exchanges and community pharmacies initiated 49% of all treatments. Regression analyses implied pharmacies had superior follow‐up, but there was no difference in likelihood of achieving SVR in community pathways relative to hospital care. Re‐infection occurred 39 times over 256.57 person years (PY), yielding a rate of 15.20 per 100 PY (95% CI 10.81‐20.78). 54 deaths occurred (29 drug related) over 1,553.04 PY, yielding a mortality rate of 3.48 per 100 PY (95% CI 2.61‐4.54). Drug‐related mortality was 1.87 per 100 PY (95% CI 1.25‐2.68).

Conclusions

Rapid HCV treatment scale‐up to PWID in community settings, whilst maintaining high SVR, is achievable. However, other interventions are required to minimise re‐infection; reduce drug‐related deaths; and improve post‐SVR follow‐up testing regionally.
A buccal mucosal graft subcoronal resurfacing technique to treat recurrent penile adhesions: the buccal belt
Authors: Beamer Matthew R. , Angulo Javier C. , Capiel Leandro , López‐Alvarado Damian , Ramirez Erick A. , Satyagraha Paksi , Zaccarini Daniel , Kittleman Michelle A. , Nikolavsky Dmitriy
Published: December 2021

Objective

To outline our step‐by‐step surgical technique using a subcoronal buccal mucosal graft (BMG) resurfacing technique for the treatment of recurrent penile adhesions.

Methods

To perform the ‘buccal belt’ procedure a subcoronal circumferential segment of diseased skin was excised. An appropriately sized BMG was circumferentially secured subcoronally with a proximal and distal anastomosis to the edges of the wound. Quilting stitches were also placed to allow proper graft fixation. A petroleum jelly bolster was secured as a tie‐over dressing. Patients were discharged with a Foley catheter and the bolster dressing in place. The bolster and Foley catheter were removed 7 days postoperatively. The patients were then seen for follow‐up at 4‐ to 6‐month intervals. A retrospective, international multi‐institutional review was conducted to include all patients who underwent this procedure. Surgical complications, evidence of recurrence, and patient‐reported outcome measures including visual analogue scale (VAS) and global response assessment (GRA) questionnaires were reviewed.

Results

Thirty‐one men underwent the procedure across six institutions between March 2014 and September 2020. The mean (range) surgical time was 59 (25–95) min. At the mean (range) follow‐up of 27 (4–79) months all patients reported resolution of presenting symptoms and no recurrence of adhesions. The mean VAS score was 8.9 and 9.0 for aesthetics and functional outcomes, respectively. On GRA, overall improvement was reported by all patients (61%, +3; 25%, +2; 14%, +1).

Conclusion

There are limited options for the treatment of recurrent penile adhesions. A subcoronal BMG resurfacing is feasible, with no recurrence and overall high satisfaction seen in an initial patient cohort.
Transglutaminase 2: Development of therapeutic antibodies reveals four inhibitory epitopes and confirms extracellular function in fibrotic remodelling
Authors: Maamra Mabrouka , Benayad Osama Mehdi , Matthews David , Kettleborough Catherine , Atkinson John , Cain Katharine , Bon Helene , Brand Helen , Parkinson Michael , Watson Philip F. , Johnson Timothy S.
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose

Transglutaminase type 2 (TG2) catalyses formation of ε‐(γ‐glutamyl)‐lysine bonds between proteins, including those of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Elevated extracellular TG2 leads to accelerated ECM deposition and reduced clearance that underlies tissue scarring and fibrosis. Many transglutaminase inhibitors exist and allowed for proof‐of‐concept studies in disease models, but their lack of specificity for the TG2 isoform, and/or poor pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties have limited their clinical application. We sought to develop a high affinity TG2‐specific antibody against extracellular TG2 activity, with characteristics suitable for therapeutic development.

Experimental Approach

Individual human TG2 domains were used to immunize mice and generate hybridomas. Supernatants were screened for inhibition of recombinant human TG2 activity, with TG2 specificity determined by ELISA.

Key Results

Thirteen TG2‐specific, hybridoma supernatants inhibited human transamidation activity. Each hybridoma was cloned and the antibody mapped to an epitope in the TG2 core domain, using phage display panning of a TG2 fragment library. Four distinct inhibitory epitopes were determined. The most effective antibodies (AB1, DC1, and BB7) bound to amino acids 313–327 (catalytic core), with an IC50 of approximately 6–7 nM. The antibodies inhibit TG2 in human cells and block ECM accumulation in a primary human proximal tubular epithelial cell model of fibrosis. Only 7 antibodies inhibited rat TG2, all with higher IC50 values.

Conclusions and Implications

We identified a preferred inhibitory epitope in human TG2, developed antibodies with required characteristics for clinical development, and established that targeted inhibition of extracellular TG2 transamidation activity is sufficient to modify fibrotic remodelling.
Microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 is involved in the metabolic and cardiovascular alterations associated with obesity
Authors: Ballesteros‐Martínez Constanza , Rodrigues‐Díez Raquel , Beltrán Luis M. , Moreno‐Carriles Rosa , Martínez‐Martínez Ernesto , González‐Amor María , Martínez‐González Jose , Rodríguez Cristina , Cachofeiro Victoria , Salaices Mercedes , Briones Ana M.
Published: December 2021

Background and Purpose

Microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 (mPGES‐1) is an inducible isomerase responsible for prostaglandin E2 production in inflammatory conditions. We evaluated the role of mPGES‐1 in the development and the metabolic and cardiovascular alterations of obesity.

Experimental Approach

mPGES‐1+/+ and mPGES‐1−/− mice were fed with normal or high fat diet (HFD, 60% fat). The glycaemic and lipid profile was evaluated by glucose and insulin tolerance tests and colorimetric assays. Vascular function, structure and mechanics were assessed by myography. Histological studies, q‐RT‐PCR, and western blot analyses were performed in adipose tissue depots and cardiovascular tissues. Gene expression in abdominal fat and perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) from patients was correlated with vascular damage.

Key Results

Male mPGES‐1−/− mice fed with HFD were protected against body weight gain and showed reduced adiposity, better glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, lipid levels and less white adipose tissue and PVAT inflammation and fibrosis, compared with mPGES‐1+/+ mice. mPGES‐1 knockdown prevented cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, cardiac fibrosis, endothelial dysfunction, aortic insulin resistance, and vascular inflammation and remodelling, induced by HFD. Obesity‐induced weight gain and endothelial dysfunction of resistance arteries were ameliorated in female mPGES‐1−/− mice. In humans, we found a positive correlation between mPGES‐1 expression in abdominal fat and vascular remodelling, vessel stiffness, and systolic blood pressure. In human PVAT, there was a positive correlation between mPGES‐1 expression and inflammatory markers.

Conclusions and Implications

mPGES‐1 inhibition might be a novel therapeutic approach to the management of obesity and the associated cardiovascular and metabolic alterations.
Changes in outdoor physical activities among older people in Sweden: Exploring generational shifts in time spent in natural environments
Authors: Vilhelmson Bertil , Thulin Eva
Published: December 2021

Key Messages

Spending active time in natural environments increases sharply in the years after retirement, the pattern remaining when cohorts move into older phases.

Aside from spatially segregated activities connected with housing situations, no substantial social differences in time spent in natural environments emerge.

There is a need for enabling proximate access to green spaces and publicly available plots for cultivation, challenging ongoing urban densification.
Characterization of groups of siblings in residential child care in Spain
Authors: Martín Eduardo , González‐Navasa Patricia
Published: December 2021

International guidelines recommend that groups of siblings remain together when protective measures are taken. Although this is a deeply rooted practice in most countries, research has found no conclusive evidence of the benefits of this practice, so further knowledge in this field is required. This work aims to describe the characterization of groups of siblings in residential child care. The sample consists of 281 children and adolescents who were in residential care, of which 42% were composed of groups of siblings. Case files were analysed, and the main results indicate that those who are cared for with their siblings are younger, have longer stays and have been subjected to neglect to a greater extent than those who are alone and reunification with their family is more complicated than for the rest. These results are discussed with regard to the scientific literature in this field and conclude with the need to carry out preventive actions and to make decision‐making criteria about groups of siblings more flexible.
Importance of challenging and updating allergy skin test concentrations
Authors: Chiang Valerie , Mong Pearl P. T. , Chan Edward K. K. , Au Elaine Y. L. , Li Philip H.
Published: December 2021

Linked Article: Bianchi et al. Contact Dermatitis 2021; https://doi.org/10.1111/cod.14014
Protective policies for all? An analysis of Covid‐19 deaths and protective policies among low‐, medium‐, and high‐vulnerability groups
Authors: Page‐Tan Courtney , Corbin Tanya Buhler
Published: December 2021

Protective policies have been unequally and inconsistently applied in the United States throughout the Covid‐19 pandemic. This study investigates the relationship between state and local policies and Covid‐19 deaths, combining three datasets: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Social Vulnerability Index; local laws and regulations from the COVID Analysis and Mapping of Policies (AMP) database; and Covid‐19 deaths by county reported by The New York Times. It examines, using propensity score matching, local policies and regulations as treatments during the crisis, and assesses how, inter alia, face mask requirements, gathering restrictions, stay‐at‐home orders, and social distancing mandates enacted at the county level altered Covid‐19 deaths. The results indicate that the first three variables reduced average Covid‐19 deaths in high‐vulnerability communities. Despite clear gaps in federal policy guidance and coordinated policies, some efforts led by local and state governments promoted safer behaviour and lessened the impact of Covid‐19 in communities, especially those with higher social vulnerability rates.
A comparative in vitro study on monomer release from bisphenol A‐free and conventional temporary crown and bridge materials
Authors: Hampe Tristan , Wiessner Andreas , Frauendorf Holm , Alhussein Mohammad , Karlovsky Petr , Bürgers Ralf , Krohn Sebastian
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to investigate the release of common monomers from two conventional and two bisphenol A (BPA)‐free temporary crown and bridge materials. Cylindrical samples of all materials were prepared (N = 90; five samples for each material and cycle of analysis). All samples were immersed in high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)‐grade water and incubated for 1 h, 12 h, 24 h, and 7 days in an incubation shaker at 37°C and 112 rpm. Extraction was performed in accordance with ISO 10993‐12. Eluted monomers were detected and quantified by HPLC coupled with ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (HPLC‐UV/Vis‐MS). Analysis of BPA was performed by HPLC coupled with ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (HPLC‐UV/Vis) and positive results were verified by HPLC‐tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS/MS). Neither bisphenol A‐glycidyl methacrylate (Bis‐GMA) nor BPA was quantifiable in any of the crown and bridge samples investigated in the present study. However, all samples contained triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and/or urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) after 24 h of incubation. Statistical analysis showed that significantly more UDMA was released from the BPA‐free materials than from the conventional materials. All concentrations of UDMA measured were below the effective cytotoxic concentrations previously reported. However, for a few materials, especially BPA‐free temporary crown and bridge materials, the levels of UDMA were above previously reported potentially harmful concentrations for local cells. As BPA‐free materials were introduced as being more biocompatible than materials containing BPA, substitution of Bis‐GMA with UDMA should be further investigated.
Alarm calls of southern house wrens, Troglodytes aedon bonariae, convey information about the level of risk
Authors: Fernández Gustavo J. , Carro Mariana E.
Published: December 2021

Alarm calls are an antipredatory strategy widely used by animals. Some calls are functionally referential, giving specific information about the perceived threat. In other cases, the calls are less specific although they may also provide information about the level of threat or “urgency.” Here, we assess whether southern house wrens (Troglodytes aedon bonariae) provide information about the level of risk when they perceive a threat during nesting. We analysed the call acoustic structure and repetition rate of calls emitted by the breeding pair when we placed a model of a predator at different distances from the nest. The results showed that, although there were no structural differences in alarm calls among treatments, individuals increased the rate of alarm calling according to the distance of the predator model from the nest, reflecting a perceived level of threat. Playback experiments of alarm calls reproduced at different rates also showed that recruitment of conspecific and heterospecific individuals increased with the calling rate. These experiments showed that the rate of alarm calling in the southern house wren provides information about the perceived level of risk and that listeners respond accordingly.
Experimental study on the progressive failure of double‐flawed granite samples subjected to impact loads
Authors: Zhou Xiaoping , Yi Menghan , Zhou Jiannan , Cheng Hao , Berto Filippo
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the split Hopkinson pressure bar device and high‐speed camera system are applied to carry out the impact tests of fine‐grained granite samples with two parallel preexisting flaws, whose angles are 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°. The dynamic compressive strength of the double‐flawed granite samples is affected by the flaw angle. By analyzing the experimental results, the peak strengths of the double‐flawed granite samples are in low level when the flaw angles are varying from 45° to 75°, while the peak strengths of the double‐flawed granite samples are in high level when the flaw angles are in the ranges of 0°–30° and 75°–90°. The strain concentration factor is investigated based on the digital image correlation technology. Moreover, the mechanical properties, energy absorption, cracking behaviors, failure modes, and the progressive failure mechanism of the double‐flawed granite samples under impact loads are revealed.
The other side of heritage language education: Understanding Spanish heritage language teachers in the United States
Authors: Gironzetti Elisa , Belpoliti Flavia
Published: December 2021

In response to the growth of Spanish heritage language (SHL) learners in the United States, researchers and instructors in the field of SHL teaching proposed a set of goals and pedagogical approaches to meet these learners’ needs. However, because few studies focused on SHL teachers’ professional preparation and practice, it is unclear whether these developments have reached language teacher preparation and professionalization, or how SHL teachers are implementing these pedagogies. This study seeks to better understand the experiences, practices, and needs of teachers of SHL to inform and improve professional development models. By analyzing data from a nationwide online survey and exploring individual experiences through scripted interviews, we offer a snapshot of the realities of these educators working in different educational contexts in the United States. The analysis highlights the challenges faced by SHL instructors, the gaps in their teacher education, and the need for additional resources and targeted support. The implications of these results for SHL teacher preparation are discussed considering feasible options to foster their professional growth.
The relationship between chronic pain and psychosocial aspects in patients with haemophilic arthropathy. A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ucero‐Lozano Roberto , López‐Pina José Antonio , Ortiz‐Pérez Alba , Cuesta‐Barriuso Rubén
Published: December 2021

Background

Pain is a major characteristic in haemophilic arthropathy. Identifying the psychosocial variables affected by pain can help when addressing these patients.

Aim

To assess the relationship between perceived intensity of chronic pain and joint damage, kinesiophobia, catastrophism, anxiety and perceived quality of life in adult patients with haemophilic arthropathy.

Methods

Multicentre cross‐sectional descriptive study. Seventy‐seven adult patients with haemophilic arthropathy were recruited. The usual and maximum pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), joint status (Haemophilia Joint Health Score), Kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia), catastrophism (Pain catastrophizing scale), anxiety (State‐Trait Anxiety inventory) and perceived quality of life (36‐Item Short Form Health Survey) were evaluated. The correlation between usual and maximum pain intensity with quantitative variables was obtained with Spearman`s correlation test. Kruskal‐Wallis one‐way ANOVA analysed differences in perceived pain according to the severity and type of treatment, and development of inhibitors.

Results

The usual intensity of perceived pain correlated positively with catastrophism, kinesiophobia, and state and trait anxiety. The same results were obtained when analysing the maximum perception of pain. We found an inverse correlation between the physical component of perceived quality of life and usual and maximum pain intensity perceived by patients.

Conclusion

Psychosocial factors affect the painful experience of patients with haemophilic arthropathy. Pain intensity affects the quality of life of these patients.
Deification as a Philosophical Problem: A Lutheran Reconstruction
Authors: Vainio Olli‐Pekka
Published: December 2021

In the most general terms, deification means participation in the divine nature, which starts the process where the believer is supposed to transform into the likeness of Christ. This article applies analytic tools to Lutheran theology in order to make sense of its central features. I aim to construct a model for the anthropology of deification which aims to function within these parameters to provide an account which satisfies the desiderata Lutheran theology has for the idea of deification and which does not commit itself to views that are obviously philosophically problematic. I offer arguments for a particular metaphysical construal of Luther’s idea of deification, while acknowledging that it leaves some questions unanswered. Finally, I make a suggestion for Lutherans as well as theologians from other traditions, to consider a metaphysical model developed by Peter van Inwagen as a possible parsimonious way of thinking about deification.
Gloriously Intertwined: A Bavinckian Account of the Single Organism of Dogmatics and Ethics
Authors: Xu Ximian
Published: December 2021

Recent Bavinck studies show that Herman Bavinck (1854–1921) is not only a dogmatician but also an ethicist. This article seeks to demonstrate that, by intertwining dogmatics and ethics in a doxological way, that is, glorifying and exalting God in wonder and praise, Bavinck describes these two disciplines as inter‐independent yet intimately related; together they compose a single organism. Yet, Bavinck does not fully explicate the organic interconnection between dogmatics and ethics. Given this, I would like to take a step further to propose a Bavinckian analogical account of the two disciplines: ethics is embodied dogmatics, and dogmatics is ensouled ethics; together they constitute the organism of systematic theology. As such, dogmatics and ethics are understood to be two sub‐disciplines of systematic theology, which aims to promote flourishing life in light of God’s self‐revelation. Such a systematic theology serves to validate the due place of Christian theology in the academy.
A novel computer‐aided method for direct measurements and visualization of gingival margin changes
Authors: Kuralt Marko , Fidler Aleš
Published: December 2021

Aim

To introduce and validate a computer‐aided method for direct measurements and visualization of gingival margin (GM) changes.

Materials and Methods

The method consists of five main steps: digital model acquisition, superimposition, computer‐aided GM detection, distance calculation between the GM curves, and visualization. The precision of the method was evaluated with repeatability and reproducibility analysis (n = 78 teeth). The method's repeatability was evaluated by repeating the algorithm on the same digital models by two operators. The reproducibility was evaluated by repeating the algorithm on two consecutive digital models obtained with a scan−rescan process at the same time point on the same patient. For demonstration, the proposed method for direct measurements of GM changes was performed on patients who had undergone root coverage procedures and treatment of periodontal disease.

Results

Excellent repeatability was found for both intra‐ and inter‐operator variability, that is, 0.00 mm, regarding computer‐aided GM detection. The reproducibility of computer‐aided GM detection evaluated on scan−rescan models was 0.10 mm.

Conclusions

The presented method enables the evaluation of GM changes in a simple, precise, and comprehensive manner through non‐invasive acquisition and superimposition of digital models.
Use of the deep learning approach to measure alveolar bone level
Authors: Lee Chun‐Teh , Kabir Tanjida , Nelson Jiman , Sheng Sally , Meng Hsiu‐Wan , Van Dyke Thomas E. , Walji Muhammad F. , Jiang Xiaoqian , Shams Shayan
Published: December 2021

Aim

The goal was to use a deep convolutional neural network to measure the radiographic alveolar bone level to aid periodontal diagnosis.

Materials and Methods

A deep learning (DL) model was developed by integrating three segmentation networks (bone area, tooth, cemento‐enamel junction) and image analysis to measure the radiographic bone level and assign radiographic bone loss (RBL) stages. The percentage of RBL was calculated to determine the stage of RBL for each tooth. A provisional periodontal diagnosis was assigned using the 2018 periodontitis classification. RBL percentage, staging, and presumptive diagnosis were compared with the measurements and diagnoses made by the independent examiners.

Results

The average Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) for segmentation was over 0.91. There was no significant difference in the RBL percentage measurements determined by DL and examiners (). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of RBL stage assignment for stages I, II, and III was 0.89, 0.90, and 0.90, respectively. The accuracy of the case diagnosis was 0.85.

Conclusions

The proposed DL model provides reliable RBL measurements and image‐based periodontal diagnosis using periapical radiographic images. However, this model has to be further optimized and validated by a larger number of images to facilitate its application.
High serum iron markers are associated with periodontitis in post‐menopausal women: A population‐based study (NHANES III)
Authors: Costa Susilena Arouche , Ribeiro Cecilia Claudia Costa , Moreira Ana Regina Oliveira , Carvalho Souza Soraia de Fátima
Published: December 2021

Aim

To investigate the association between increased serum markers of iron (ferritin and transferrin saturation) and the severity and extent of periodontitis in post‐menopausal (PM) women.

Materials and Methods

Data from 982 PM women participating in NHANES III were analysed. Exposures were high ferritin (≥300 μg/ml) and transferrin saturation (≥45%). The primary outcome was moderate/severe periodontitis defined according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Periodontology. The extent of periodontitis was also assessed as outcome: proportion of sites affected by clinical attachment loss ≥4 mm and probing depth ≥4 mm. Crude and adjusted prevalence ratio (PR) and mean ratio (MR) were estimated using Poisson regression.

Results

The prevalence of moderate/severe periodontitis was 27.56%. High ferritin was associated with moderate/severe periodontitis in the crude (PR 1.55, p = .018) and in the final adjusted model (PR 1.53, p = .008). High ferritin and transferrin saturation levels were associated with a higher proportion of sites with clinical attachment loss ≥4 mm (p < .05).

Conclusions

The increasing serum iron markers seem to contribute to periodontitis severity and extent in PM women.
Ecology of planktonic ciliates in a changing world: Concepts, methods, and challenges
Authors: Weisse Thomas , Montagnes David J.S.
Published: December 2021

Plankton ecologists ultimately focus on forecasting, both applied and environmental outcomes. We review how appreciating planktonic ciliates has become central to these predictions. We explore the 350‐year‐old canon on planktonic ciliates and examine its steady progression, which has been punctuated by conceptual insights and technological breakthroughs. By reflecting on this process, we offer suggestions as to where future leaps are needed, with an emphasis on predicting outcomes of global warming. We conclude that in terms of climate change research: (i) climatic hotspots (e.g. polar oceans) require attention; (ii) simply adding ciliate measurements to zooplankton/phytoplankton‐based sampling programs is inappropriate; (iii) elucidating the rare biosphere's functional ecology requires culture‐independent genetic methods; (iv) evaluating genetic adaptation (microevolution) and population composition shifts is required; (v) contrasting marine and freshwaters needs attention; (vi) mixotrophy needs attention; (vii) laboratory and field studies must couple automated measurements and molecular assessment of functional gene expression; (viii) ciliate trophic diversity requires appreciation; and (ix) marrying gene expression and function, coupled with climate change scenarios is needed. In short, continued academic efforts and financial support are essential to achieve the above; these will lead to understanding how ciliates will respond to climate change, providing tools for forecasting.
High‐pressure granulite facies re‐equilibration and zoisite–biotite dehydration melting during decompression of an ultrahigh‐pressure garnet clinopyroxenite from the island of Fjørtoft, Norway
Authors: Liu Penglei , Massonne Hans‐Joachim
Published: December 2021

A garnet clinopyroxenite from the island of Fjørtoft, Western Gneiss Region (WGR) in Norway, has experienced a complex metamorphic evolution demonstrated by studies involving petrographic observations, mineral chemistry, phase equilibria modelling and geothermobarometry. This rock, originally an eclogite, documents ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) conditions higher than 3.5 GPa (Stage 1), witnessed by Ca‐rich garnet inclusions in kyanite. The UHP assemblage was pervasively re‐equilibrated at high‐pressure (HP) granulite facies conditions around 1.75 GPa and 870°C, during which and/or somewhat before Ca‐poor garnet, sodian diopside, zoisite and biotite formed (Stage 2a). Dehydration melting of zoisite and biotite (Stage 2b) took place at similar pressure–temperature conditions. The produced melt was poor in Si and rich in alkalis and crystallized mainly to analcime + plagioclase + K‐feldspar. Oriented composite inclusions of quartz + amphibole + phengite ± garnet, found in clinopyroxene, are interpreted to have resulted from interaction between a fluid (hydrous melt and/or aqueous fluid) and clinopyroxene at the early retrogression Stage 3. Stage 1 resulted from deep subduction of the rock. Stage 2 followed after early exhumation probably due to stagnation at a hot and thickened orogenic root. Consequently, other HP granulite facies metabasites, which are similar to the studied garnet clinopyroxenite and widespread in the northwestern WGR, could have been transformed from former eclogite at this stage, too. In addition, this study provides a direct link between the generation of peralkaline melts and crustal anatexis in collision zones and new insights into the retrograde formation of oriented mineral inclusions in HP‐UHP minerals.
Readiness for hospital discharge in primary caregivers for children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Lu Feng , Zhang Ge , Zhao Xiufang , Luo Biru
Published: December 2021

Aim

To investigate existing status and factors affecting the readiness for hospital discharge in primary caregivers for children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in China.

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia is the most common childhood cancer, but there is not enough research on the readiness for hospital discharge.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was performed by convenience sampling and questionnaire survey.

Methods

A self‐developed questionnaire of general and clinical characteristics of patients, self‐developed questionnaire of general status of family and primary caregivers, questionnaire of readiness of hospital discharge scale and social support rating scale for primary caregivers were delivered to 264 primary caregivers of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia patients. Data collection was carried out 24 h before discharge at bedside. In this study, the STROBE checklist was followed.

Results

In total, 253 patients aged 0–16 years, including their primary caregivers in the hospital, were included from November 2016 to August 2017. Based on the readiness scale, the total mean score of readiness was 157.36. Based on the social support scale, the total mean score was 42.17. According to multivariate analysis, periods of chemotherapy (p < .001), complications (p = .019), family economic situation (p = .023), understanding of leukaemia (p < .001), objective support (p = .004), subjective support (p < .001) and availability of support (p = .045) were the main influencers of readiness.

Conclusions

The readiness for hospital discharge in primary caregivers for childhood lymphoblastic leukaemia patients is not satisfactory in China.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study has implications for public health administration, asking for better community services and disease education. In addition, more effort should be made to provide high‐quality family and primary caregiver assessments and discharge education by nurses.
Organizational Dischronization: On Meaning and Meaninglessness, Sensemaking and Nonsensemaking
Authors: Alvesson Mats , Jonsson Anna
Published: December 2021

This paper contributes to close up studies of how members in organizations experience and act in relationship to what is broadly and vaguely referred to as institutionalized structures and practices. Based on a case study about scorecards, a quality control system, it is illustrated that this practice works poorly, because of inconsistent ideas of purpose and functioning. We introduce the concept of organizational dischronization (OD) to illuminate this. OD indicates a deviation from the ideal of shared or synchronized meanings, and the existence of diverging understandings and lack of clarification of this, in an organization. The paper challenges some core ideas of institutional theory (logics) and sensemaking, suggesting the use of counter concepts such is organizational illogics and nonsensemaking, thus opening up for a broader and less ‘smooth’ understanding of how institutions and sensemaking work than assumed in the literature.
Design and pilot testing of therapeutic clothing for hospitalized children
Authors: Hawkins Beth , Ventresco Courtney , Cummings Meghan , McCaffrey Kimberly , Willwerth Andrew J. , Blume Elizabeth D. , VanderPluym Christina
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design and pilot program of a parent designed clothing option for hospitalized infants and children and to better understand the importance and effects of hospital clothing on families. Little research has been done on how clothing a hospitalized child impacts the child's quality of life and their parent's perception of care. Research has been limited to clothing in adults and its relation to infection.

Design and Methods

A pediatric outfit (the Georgie) for hospitalized infants and children was designed based on insight from bedside nursing, physicians, parents, and supply chain personnel. The garment was pilot tested on select patients from intensive care units of a large children's hospital. A pre‐ and post‐use questionnaire was disseminated with questions focused on aspects of the child's care, comfort in changing child's clothes/diapers, number of times the Georgie was used and comfort level of using the Georgie. Survey responses were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

Parents overall response to the Georgie was positive with great value placed on having their child dressed. All parents (n = 5) responded that too many lines were an obstacle to having their child dressed. Compared to the hospital Johnny, the Georgie (80%, n = 4) was the most preferred when placement and securement of monitoring lines was taken into consideration with one parent preferring a blanket and diaper only. Nurses felt the benefit outweighed the added effort in dressing the patient. The majority of the nurses had a positive initial reaction to the Georgie (80%, n = 4) and felt the lines or external devices were “very secure/secure” (80%, n = 4) when the patient was wearing the Georgie.

Practice Implications

Implementing a new family centered care initiative of dressing critically ill patients in the Georgie may improve patient and family's quality of life while hospitalized. A larger scale study is indicated to assess the importance of dressing hospitalized pediatric patients for their families, to clarify the effect on nursing care, to optimize ability to stabilize lines, and to understand logistical issues.
Petiole anatomy of some species of Bauhinia L. sensu lato (Leguminosae Juss.) occurring in India
Authors: Rajput Kishore S. , Dayatar Sandip R. , Lekhak Manoj M. , Gondaliya Amit D.
Published: December 2021

The petiole is a vital part of the leaf that acts as a bridge between the lamina and stem or branch for the transport of photosynthate, minerals, nutrients and provide flexible mechanical support to the lamina. Its anatomy remains unique and species‐specific. Therefore, twelve species of Bauhinia sensu lato were investigated histologically in the present study. The disparities in the petiole outline, structure and composition of secondary xylem and presence of cell inclusions can be wisely employed for species identification. Conducting elements of the xylem and phloem were arranged as irregularly distributed individual vascular bundles in Schnella guianensis. Several vascular bundles joined to form a double ring of the xylem and phloem in Piliostigma foveolatum, P. malabaricum, P. racemosum, two species of Phanera (P. retusa, P. vahlii) and Bauhinia variegata while in the remaining species, it remained as a single ring. Other features of taxonomic importance are xylem ring that can be circular and complete and if incomplete crescent‐shaped or ‘U' shaped, arrangement of cortical bundles and their position, accumulation of tannin etc. Deposition of tannin was observed in the pith, xylem and phloem parenchyma of Piliostigma foveolatum, P. malabaricum, Bauhinia tomentosa and B. variegata and in the pith and phloem parenchyma of Phanera phoenicea, Piliostigma racemosum and Phanera scandens. Tannin was found absent in B. acuminata and B. purpurea. All these features played important role in species recognition. Structural details of the petiole are described in detail for all the investigated species using standard anatomical methods and light microscopy. Findings revealed that anatomical characteristics of the petiole are of taxonomic value for this genus and can be valuable for species identification and classification.
Two new species of Miconia s.lat. (Melastomataceae) from Espírito Santo, Brazil
Authors: Goldenberg Renato , Bacci Lucas F. , Bochorny Thuane , Reginato Marcelo
Published: December 2021

We here describe two new species endemic to the state of Espírito Santo, Brazil, that belong to different clades within Miconia s.lat. Miconia quartzicola is presumably part of the Leandra s.str. clade, as indicated by its terminal inflorescences and petals with an acute apex. It has been collected only once in the municipality of Vargem Alta in disturbed vegetation on loose quartzitic substrate (‘morros de sal'). Miconia spiritusanctensis belongs to Miconia sect. Cremanium, as indicated by its small white and obovate anthers with four apical pores. The latter encompasses populations previously identified as M. hirtella that are morphologically, geographically and climatically segregated from typical populations of the species from more dry and inland regions of Brazil. In addition to the descriptions of the new species, we present comments, conservation status and plates for both, as well as climatic modelling analyses on the populations of M. spiritusanctensis and M. hirtella. We recommend that Miconia quartzicola and M. spiritusanctensis should both be considered as threatened, ‘critically endangered' and ‘endangered', respectively, according to the IUCN extinction risk criteria.
Different priming effects of empathy on neural processing associated with firsthand pain and nonpain perception
Authors: Ren Qiaoyue , Yang Ye , Wo Ye , Lu Xuejing , Hu Li
Published: December 2021

The shared‐representation model of empathy is still debated. One of the major questions is whether empathy‐eliciting stimuli depicting others’ pain selectively activate the representations of self‐pain. To address this issue, we assessed the priming effects of empathy‐eliciting pictures on firsthand pain and nonpain perception, as well as its associated neural processing. In Experiment 1, when compared with nonpainful pictures depicting individuals’ body parts with no injury, participants primed by painful pictures showing individuals’ body parts with injury reported higher ratings for perceived intensity, unpleasantness, and salience of nociceptive and auditory stimuli, but they only exhibited increased N2 amplitude in response to nociceptive stimuli. In Experiment 2, the results from another group of participants replicated the observations of Experiment 1 and validated the findings in the non‐nociceptive somatosensory modality. Importantly, participants’ concern ratings for priming pictures predicted their unpleasantness ratings for subsequent nociceptive stimuli, while participants’ attention ratings predicted their unpleasantness ratings for subsequent auditory and tactile stimuli. This finding implies that empathy for pain might influence pain and nonpain perception via different psychological mechanisms. In summary, our findings highlight the existence of pain‐selective representations in empathy for pain and contribute to a better understanding of the shared‐representation model of empathy.
Soundscapes predict species occurrence in tropical forests
Authors: Sethi Sarab S. , Ewers Robert M. , Jones Nick S. , Sleutel Jani , Shabrani Adi , Zulkifli Nursyamin , Picinali Lorenzo
Published: December 2021

Accurate occurrence data is necessary for the conservation of keystone or endangered species, but acquiring it is usually slow, laborious and costly. Automated acoustic monitoring offers a scalable alternative to manual surveys but identifying species vocalisations requires large manually annotated training datasets, and is not always possible (e.g. for lesser studied or silent species). A new approach is needed that rapidly predicts species occurrence using smaller and more coarsely labelled audio datasets. We investigated whether local soundscapes could be used to infer the presence of 32 avifaunal and seven herpetofaunal species in 20 min recordings across a tropical forest degradation gradient in Sabah, Malaysia. Using acoustic features derived from a convolutional neural network (CNN), we characterised species indicative soundscapes by training our models on a temporally coarse labelled point‐count dataset. Soundscapes successfully predicted the occurrence of 34 out of the 39 species across the two taxonomic groups, with area under the curve (AUC) metrics from 0.53 up to 0.87. The highest accuracies were achieved for species with strong temporal occurrence patterns. Soundscapes were a better predictor of species occurrence than above‐ground carbon density – a metric often used to quantify habitat quality across forest degradation gradients. Our results demonstrate that soundscapes can be used to efficiently predict the occurrence of a wide variety of species and provide a new direction for data driven large‐scale assessments of habitat suitability.