bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary cicatricial alopecia: Recent advances in evaluation and diagnosis based on trichoscopic and histopathological observation, including overlapping and specific features
Authors: Uchiyama Masaki
Published: December 2021

Primary cicatricial alopecia (PCA) is a form of alopecia in which inflammatory cells target follicles, including the bulge region containing follicular stem cells, leading to permanent alopecia. New classifications of PCA subtypes have recently been proposed, including those that account for novel trichoscopic and histopathological features of PCA, enabling greater precision in the evaluation and diagnosis of this condition. Nonetheless, diagnosis remains challenging clinically and histopathologically because the etiology of PCA is multifactorial. Inconsistent use of terminology, overlapping disease concepts, and changes in the clinical or histopathological severity of inflammation in the disease course in the same patient also make diagnosis quite challenging. The present study comprehensively reviews recent progress in diagnostic techniques, including the use of clinical, trichoscopic, and histopathological features, in evaluating each PCA subtype, containing overlapping and specific features. Elucidating the features of PCA, including those that are common to multiple subtypes as well as specific to each in both early and advanced‐stage lesions, is important for accurate diagnosis. Improving the evaluation and treatment of this disease depends on having a broader clinical understanding that takes into account not only the features of the disease at a given point in time, but also the changes that occur during the entire disease course.
Effect of NUDT15 polymorphisms on early hematological safety of low‐dose azathioprine in Chinese patients with pemphigus vulgaris: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Xingli , Cheng Liangliang , Wang Yiyi , Gou Hui , Ju Ke , Lan TianJiao , Zhan Tongying , Li GaoJie , Gu Yuanxia , Sun Yeting , Xu Yan , Sun Yukun , Zhou Yanhong , Li Wei
Published: December 2021

Azathioprine (AZA) is the preferred immunosuppressant for treating pemphigus vulgaris (PV), with discontinuation mainly attributed to hematological adverse events (AE). Reportedly, nucleoside diphosphate‐linked moiety X‐type motif 15 (NUDT15) polymorphisms have been strongly associated with thiopurine‐induced leukopenia. To investigate hematological AE of low‐dose AZA based on NUDT15 genotypes among patients with PV, a prospective cohort study was conducted in patients with PV, followed‐up for the first 8 weeks after AZA administration. All patients were divided into wild homozygous and heterozygous NUDT15 groups. Both groups initiated AZA at low dose (50 mg/day) and continued with different dose‐escalating approaches. Bone marrow suppression was considered the principal outcome. Overall, 62 patients with PV were enrolled (48 in the wild homozygous NUDT15 group vs. 14 in the heterozygous NUDT15 group). Except for median maintenance doses of AZA, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of age, sex, white blood cells, neutrophil count, platelet count, hemoglobin level, median final doses of corticosteroids (mg prednisone equivalent), pemphigus disease area index, and anti‐desmoglein 1/3 autoantibodies. In both groups, patients presented similar hematological AE and treatment responses after administration of different low‐dose AZA treatment strategies. Low‐dose AZA based on NUDT15 genotypes can reduce the risk of early hematological AE among patients with PV.
Gene polymorphisms of SIRT1 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zhou Jie , He Yan‐Wei , Fu Lu , Lan You‐Yu , Liu Xiao‐Yan , Wu Qian , Xu Wang‐Dong , Huang An‐Fang
Published: December 2021

Aim

Previous studies have shown that silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) expression is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. However, whether gene polymorphisms in SIRT1 gene associated with RA in a Chinese Han population remains to be discussed.

Method

In this case‐control study, 529 RA patients and 700 healthy controls were selected, and association of 11 SIRT1 gene polymorphisms (rs12415800, rs3740051, rs932658, rs3740053, rs7895833, rs10509291, rs33957861, rs7069102, rs2273773, rs3818292, rs1467568) with RA susceptibility was evaluated.

Results

Frequency of GA+GG genotype of rs3740051 in RA patients was significantly lower than that in healthy controls (P = .037). Frequencies of GC and GC+GG genotypes of rs7069102 were significantly lower than those in healthy controls (P = .036,P = .047). Frequencies of GA and GA+GG genotypes of rs1467568 were lower in RA patients as compared to those in healthy controls (P = .011,P = .013). For rs2273773, RA patients who carried the T allele had higher number of tender joints than patients who carried the C allele (P = .033). Other polymorphisms did not associate with RA risk.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that rs3740051, rs7069102 and rs1467568 variants in SIRT1 gene are related to RA susceptibility in a Chinese Han population.
Market‐expanding or Market‐stealing? Competition with network effects in bike‐sharing
Authors: Cao Guangyu , Jin Ginger Zhe , Weng Xi , Zhou Li‐An
Published: December 2021

Using staggered entry of two dockless bike‐sharing firms, we study whether the entrant expands or steals the market from the incumbent in 59 cities. Compared with 23 cities without entry, the entry helps the incumbent to serve more trips, make more bike investment, achieve higher revenue per trip, improve bike utilization, and form a wider and more dispersed network. The market‐expanding effect on new users dominates a significant market‐stealing effect on old users. These findings, plus a theory that highlights consumer search and network effects, suggest that a market with positive network effects and multihoming users is not necessarily winner‐takes‐all.
Pembrolizumab monotherapy versus pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy in patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer: A multicenter retrospective trial
Authors: Matsumoto Hiromi , Kobayashi Nobuaki , Somekawa Kohei , Fukuda Nobuhiko , Kaneko Ayami , Kamimaki Chisato , Kubo Sousuke , Tanaka Katsushi , Tagami Yoichi , Teranishi Shuhei , Watanabe Keisuke , Horita Nobuyuki , Hara Yu , Yamamoto Masaki , Kudo Makoto , Koizumi Harumi , Miura Kenji , Miyazawa Naoki , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: December 2021

Background

Pembrolizumab alone or in combination with chemotherapy is a standard treatment for patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with high programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression. However, no study has compared the efficacies of these two regimens. Therefore, we aimed to compare the efficacy of pembrolizumab alone and in combination with chemotherapy in NSCLC patients with high PD‐L1 expression.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective trial involving patients with diagnosed unresectable or recurrent NSCLCs who had received pembrolizumab with or without chemotherapy in the first‐line setting. Patients were divided into monotherapy and combination therapy groups. The progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and response rate (RR) were analyzed and compared between the groups. Clinical characteristics of patients were analyzed to assess their possible relationship with treatment outcomes.

Results

We enrolled 96 patients from five hospitals. Of these, 47 and 49 patients received monotherapy and combination therapy, respectively. The median PFS was 343 and 328 days in the monotherapy and combination therapy groups, respectively (hazard ratio 1.003, p = 0.99). No statistically significant differences were observed in the OS and RR between the two groups. However, in patients with metastases to the liver, lung, adrenal glands, bone, or lymph nodes, the PFS was longer in the monotherapy group than in the combination therapy group.

Conclusion

Although the PFS, OS, and RR were not significantly different between patients treated with pembrolizumab alone and or with pembrolizumab in combination with chemotherapy, patients with NSCLC having metastases to specific sites may benefit more from monotherapy.
Risk factors for in‐hospital mortality in patients with advanced lung cancer with interstitial pneumonia undergoing systemic chemotherapy: A retrospective and observational study using a nationwide administrative database in Japan
Authors: Shiraishi Tomoko , Oda Keishi , Yamasaki Kei , Kido Takashi , Sennari Konomi , Mukae Hiroshi , Ohtani Makoto , Fujino Yoshihisa , Matsuda Shinya , Fushimi Kiyohide , Yatera Kazuhiro
Published: December 2021

Background

The safety profile of systemic chemotherapy for lung cancer patients with interstitial pneumonia (IP) in clinical practice remains unclear. Using Diagnostic Procedure Combination (DPC) data from the Japanese administrative database, we investigated the mortality of hospitalized lung cancer patients with IP as they underwent a course of systemic chemotherapy nationwide.

Methods

The DPC data of patients with stage IIIB or IV lung cancer as defined by the Union for International Cancer Control Tumor‐Nodes‐Metastases 6th and 7th editions from April 2014 to March 2016 were obtained. Among those patients, only patients with concomitant IP and receiving systemic chemotherapy without radiotherapy were included.

Results

Among 1524 included patients, 70 (4.6%) died in the hospital. Multivariate analysis revealed that low activities of daily living (ADL) scores on admission (hazard ratio [HR] 2.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24–4.12, p = 0.008) and high‐dose corticosteroid therapy following chemotherapy (HR 2.62, 95% CI 1.44–4.77, p = 0.002) were strongly associated with in‐hospital mortality. It was determined that patients possibly received high‐dose corticosteroids for IP exacerbations; these patients had a higher in‐hospital mortality rate of 67.7% (21/31 patients) and a significantly shorter median survival time of 55 days (95% CI 31–69 days, p < 0.001) than those who did not receive high‐dose corticosteroids.

Conclusion

Acute exacerbation of IP treated with systemic high‐dose corticosteroids is significantly associated with in‐hospital mortality, and a low ADL score on admission is a risk factor for in‐hospital mortality in lung cancer patients with IP who undergo systemic chemotherapy.
Management of acute atrial fibrillation in the intensive care unit: An international survey
Authors: Wetterslev Mik , Møller Morten Hylander , Granholm Anders , Hassager Christian , Haase Nicolai , Aslam Tayyba Naz , Shen Jiawei , Young Paul J. , Aneman Anders , Hästbacka Johanna , Siegemund Martin , Cronhjort Maria , Lindqvist Elin , Myatra Sheila N. , Kalvit Kushal , Arabi Yaseen M. , Szczeklik Wojciech , Sigurdsson Martin I. , Balik Martin , Keus Frederik , Perner Anders ,   the AFIB‐ICU collaborators
Published: December 2021

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in intensive care unit (ICU) patients and is associated with poor outcomes. Different management strategies exist, but the evidence is limited and derived from non‐ICU patients. This international survey of ICU doctors evaluated the preferred management of acute AF in ICU patients.

Method

We conducted an international online survey of ICU doctors with 27 questions about the preferred management of acute AF in the ICU, including antiarrhythmic therapy in hemodynamically stable and unstable patients and use of anticoagulant therapy.

Results

A total of 910 respondents from 70 ICUs in 14 countries participated in the survey with 24%–100% of doctors from sites responding. Most ICUs (80%) did not have a local guideline for the management of acute AF. The preferred first‐line strategy for the management of hemodynamically stable patients with acute AF was observation (95% of respondents), rhythm control (3%), or rate control (2%). For hemodynamically unstable patients, the preferred strategy was observation (48%), rhythm control (48%), or rate control (4%). Overall, preferred antiarrhythmic interventions included amiodarone, direct current cardioversion, beta‐blockers other than sotalol, and magnesium in that order. A total of 67% preferred using anticoagulant therapy in ICU patients with AF, among whom 61% preferred therapeutic dose anticoagulants and 39% prophylactic dose anticoagulants.

Conclusion

This international survey indicated considerable practice variation among ICU doctors in the clinical management of acute AF, including the overall management strategies and the use of antiarrhythmic interventions and anticoagulants.
Isoflurane promotes early spontaneous breathing in ventilated intensive care patients: A post hoc subgroup analysis of a randomized trial
Authors: Müller‐Wirtz Lukas M. , Behne Florian , Kermad Azzeddine , Wagenpfeil Gudrun , Schroeder Matthias , Sessler Daniel I. , Volk Thomas , Meiser Andreas
Published: December 2021

Background

Spontaneous breathing is desirable in most ventilated patients. We therefore studied the influence of isoflurane versus propofol sedation on early spontaneous breathing in ventilated surgical intensive care patients and evaluated potential mediation by opioids and arterial carbon dioxide during the first 20 h of study sedation.

Methods

We included a single‐center subgroup of 66 patients, who participated in a large multi‐center trial assessing efficacy and safety of isoflurane sedation, with 33 patients each randomized to isoflurane or propofol sedation. Both sedatives were titrated to a sedation depth of −4 to −1 on the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale. The primary outcome was the fraction of time during which patients breathed spontaneously.

Results

Baseline characteristics of isoflurane and propofol‐sedated patients were well balanced. There were no substantive differences in management or treatment aside from sedation, and isoflurane and propofol provided nearly identical sedation depths. The mean fraction of time spent spontaneously breathing was 82% [95% CI: 69, 90] in patients sedated with isoflurane compared to 35% [95% CI: 22, 51] in those assigned to propofol: median difference: 61% [95% CI: 14, 89], p < .001. After adjustments for sufentanil dose and arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure, patients sedated with isoflurane were twice as likely to breathe spontaneously than those sedated with propofol: adjusted risk ratio: 2.2 [95%CI: 1.4, 3.3], p < .001.

Conclusions

Isoflurane compared to propofol sedation promotes early spontaneous breathing in deeply sedated ventilated intensive care patients. The benefit appears to be a direct effect isoflurane rather than being mediated by opioids or arterial carbon dioxide.
A local general‐equilibrium emergency response modeling approach for sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Filipski Mateusz , Gupta Anubhab , Kagin Justin , Husain Arif , Grinspun Alejandro , Caccavale Oscar Maria , Daidone Silvio , Giuffrida Valerio , Greb Friederike , Hooker Joseph , Sandström Susanna , Fletcher‐Taylor Julian , Taylor J. Edward
Published: December 2021

Swift response models are vital tools for emergency assistance agencies. The COVID‐19 pandemic revealed the lack of economic models for short‐run policy relevant research to anticipate local impacts and design effective policy responses. The most direct effects of the pandemic and lockdown tended to be concentrated in urban areas; however, markets quickly transmitted impacts to rural areas as well as among poor and non‐poor households. General equilibrium modeling is a tool of choice to capture indirect, spillover effects of exogenous shocks. This article describes an unusual micro general‐equilibrium (GE) modeling approach that we developed to quickly simulate impacts of the pandemic and lockdowns on poor and non‐poor rural and urban households across sub‐Saharan Africa. Monte Carlo bootstrapping was used to construct four stylized regional GE models from 34 existing local economy‐wide impact evaluation (LEWIE) models. Simulations revealed that the pandemic and policy responses to curtail its spread were likely to affect rural households at least as severely as urban households. Simulated income losses are greater in poor households in both urban and rural settings. These findings are relatively consistent across models spanning sub‐Saharan Africa. Because COVID‐19 impacts are so far‐reaching, all types of economies experience downturns. Our research underlines the importance of modeling assumptions. We find total annualized impacts of around a 6‐percent loss of GDP, smaller than estimates from single‐country models that ignore price effects, such as SAM‐multiplier models, but in line with The World Bank's baseline forecast of a 5.2% contraction in global GDP in 2020. The largest negative impacts are on poor rural households.
Gross anatomy of the craniolateral antebrachial muscles in kinkajou (Potos flavus, Carnivora): Intra‐ and interspecific variants within the family Procyonidae
Authors: Vélez‐García Juan Fernando , Chunganá‐Caicedo Daniela , Saavedra‐Montealegre Sebastián
Published: December 2021

The kinkajou (Potos flavus) is a carnivoran that has special morphological adaptations in its thoracic limbs to climb threes and handling food. This study aimed to describe the craniolateral muscles of the antebrachium in P. flavus. Five specimens were used. The extensor carpi radialis longus and brevis were seen as two separate muscles. The extensor carpi ulnaris muscle can present two bellies with different insertions. An extensor digit III muscle was found. The P. flavus has anatomical variants on the craniolateral antebrachial muscles that were previously reported in other procyonids. Thus, those variants are phylogenetically related within the family Procyonidae, except the doubled bellies of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle which is exclusive of P. flavus.
Party Elite Engagement and Coordination in House Primary Elections: A Test of Theories of Parties
Authors: Hassell Hans J.G.
Published: December 2021

The support of party elites in the primary has a strong influence on who runs in a primary and how well they do. Yet party elites do not always engage or coordinate their efforts. Moreover, theories of parties disagree about whether and where party elites should engage and coordinate in primaries, depending on their view of the relative importance of electoral and policy goals. This article examines party elites’ engagement and coordination in primary elections in the U.S. House between 2004 and 2018. Consistent with theories of parties as networks of policy demanders, party elites are engaged in primaries in both competitive and safe districts. But, while party elites coordinate their efforts in competitive districts, they are less likely to coordinate in safe districts. Their disparate coordination efforts reflect different electoral priorities in these districts.
Retinol binding protein 1‐dependent activation of NF‐ κB signaling enhances the malignancy of non‐glioblastomatous diffuse gliomas
Authors: Wu Wei , Wang Yichang , Niu Chen , Wahafu Alafate , Huo Longwei , Guo Xiaoye , Xiang Jianyang , Li Xiaodong , Xie Wanfu , Bai Xiaobin , Wang Maode , Wang Jia
Published: December 2021

Nonglioblastomatous diffuse glioma (non‐GDG) is a heterogeneous neuroepithelial tumor that exhibits a varied survival range from 4 to 13 years based on the diverse subtypes. Recent studies demonstrated novel molecular markers can predict prognosis for non‐GDG patients; however, these findings as well as pathological classification strategies show obvious limitations on malignant transition due to the heterogeneity among non‐GDGs. Therefore, developing reliable prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets have become an urgent need for precisely distinguishing non‐GDG subtypes, illuminating the underlying mechanism. Nuclear factor κβ (NF‐κB) has been proved to be a significant nuclear transcriptional regulator with specific DNA‐binding sequences to participate in multiple pathophysiological processes. However, the underlying mechanism of NF‐κB activation still needs to be further investigated. Herein, our results indicated retinol‐binding protein 1 (RBP1) was significantly upregulated in the IDHWT and 1p19qNon co‐del non‐GDG subtypes and enriched RBP1 expression was markedly correlated with more severe outcomes. Additionally, malignant signatures of the non‐GDG cells including proliferation, migration, invasion, and self‐renewal were significantly suppressed by lentiviral knockdown of RBP1. To further explore the underlying molecular mechanism, bioinformatics analysis was performed using databases, and the results demonstrated RBP1 was strongly correlated with tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)–NF‐κB signaling. Moreover, exogenous silencing of RBP1 reduced phosphorylation of IkB‐kinase α (IKKα) and thus decreased NF‐κB expression via decreasing the degradation of the IκBα protein. Altogether, these data suggested RBP1‐dependent activation of NF‐κB signaling promoted malignancy of non‐GDG, indicating that RBP1 could be a reliable prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target for non‐GDG.
Neurodevelopmental phenotype in 36 new patients with 8p inverted duplication–deletion: Genotype–phenotype correlation for anomalies of the corpus callosum
Authors: Vibert Roseline , Mignot Cyril , Keren Boris , Chantot‐Bastaraud Sandra , Portnoï Marie‐France , Nouguès Marie‐Christine , Moutard Marie‐Laure , Faudet Anne , Whalen Sandra , Haye Damien , Garel Catherine , Chatron Nicolas , Rossi Massimiliano , Vincent‐Delorme Catherine , Boute Odile , Delobel Bruno , Andrieux Joris , Devillard Françoise , Coutton Charles , Puechberty Jacques , Pebrel‐Richard Céline , Colson Cindy , Gerard Marion , Missirian Chantal , Sigaudy Sabine , Busa Tiffany , Doco‐Fenzy Martine , Malan Valérie , Rio Marlène , Doray Bérénice , Sanlaville Damien , Siffroi Jean‐Pierre , Héron Delphine , Heide Solveig
Published: December 2021

Inverted duplication deletion 8p [invdupdel(8p)] is a complex and rare chromosomal rearrangement that combines a distal deletion and an inverted interstitial duplication of the short arm of chromosome 8. Carrier patients usually have developmental delay and intellectual disability (ID), associated with various cerebral and extra‐cerebral malformations. Invdupdel(8p) is the most common recurrent chromosomal rearrangement in ID patients with anomalies of the corpus callosum (AnCC). Only a minority of invdupdel(8p) cases reported in the literature to date had both brain cerebral imaging and chromosomal microarray (CMA) with precise breakpoints of the rearrangements, making genotype–phenotype correlation studies for AnCC difficult. In this study, we report the clinical, radiological, and molecular data from 36 new invdupdel(8p) cases including three fetuses and five individuals from the same family, with breakpoints characterized by CMA. Among those, 97% (n = 32/33) of patients presented with mild to severe developmental delay/ID and 34% had seizures with mean age of onset of 3.9 years (2 months–9 years). Moreover, out of the 24 patients with brain MRI and 3 fetuses with neuropathology analysis, 63% (n = 17/27) had AnCC. We review additional data from 99 previously published patients with invdupdel(8p) and compare data of 17 patients from the literature with both CMA analysis and brain imaging to refine genotype–phenotype correlations for AnCC. This led us to refine a region of 5.1 Mb common to duplications of patients with AnCC and discuss potential candidate genes within this region.
Dynamic Diffuse Global Illumination Resampling
Authors: Majercik Zander , Müller Thomas , Keller Alexander , Nowrouzezahrai Derek , McGuire Morgan
Published: December 2021

Interactive global illumination remains a challenge in radiometrically and geometrically complex scenes. Specialized sampling strategies are effective for specular and near‐specular transport because the scattering has relatively low directional variance per scattering event. In contrast, the high variance from transport paths comprising multiple rough glossy or diffuse scattering events remains notoriously difficult to resolve with a small number of samples. We extend unidirectional path tracing to address this by combining screen‐space reservoir resampling and sparse world‐space probes, significantly improving sample efficiency for transport contributions that terminate on diffuse scattering events. Our experiments demonstrate a clear improvement—at equal time and equal quality—over purely path traced and purely probe‐based baselines. Moreover, when combined with commodity denoisers, we are able to interactively render global illumination in complex scenes.
Antimicrobial effects of a new brushing solution concept on a multispecies in vitro biofilm model growing on titanium surfaces
Authors: Virto Leire , Simões‐Martins David , Sánchez María Carmen , Encinas Ana , Sanz Mariano , Herrera David
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the antibiofilm and antibacterial effects of a new brushing solution concept, in a validated peri‐implant biofilm model.

Materials and Methods

A multispecies in vitro biofilm model, including Streptococcus oralis, Actinomyces naeslundii, Veillonella parvula, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, was used. To evaluate the antibiofilm capacity, titanium discs (Ti‐SLA) were immersed in 1 ml of the tested solution (one tablet dissolved in warm water) for 2 min, prior and every 24 h during a 3‐day biofilm development. Negative (water) and positive (0.12% chlorhexidine/0.05% cetylpyridinium chloride mouth rinse) controls treated discs were run in parallel. To evaluate the antibacterial effects, planktonic cells and 72‐h biofilms on sterile Ti‐SLA discs were exposed (2 min) to the mentioned treatments. Biofilm structure was analysed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Bacterial load was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and by culture in planktonic cells.

Results

The tested product showed antibiofilm effects, impacting on the 48‐h and 72‐h biofilm thickness and significantly reducing viability of all bacterial species, except A. actinomycetemcomitans. Antibacterial effects were observed against the six bacterial species in planktonic state and in 72‐h biofilms, especially for F. nucleatum and A. actinomycetemcomitans.

Conclusion

The tested brushing solution demonstrated antibacterial and antibiofilm properties, mainly against the peri‐implant pathogens included in the validated in vitro biofilm model used.
Spatiotemporal patterns of vegetation conversion under the Grain for Green Program in southwest China
Authors: Zhao Haiwei , Wu Ruidong , Yang Feiling , Hu Jinming , Wang Junjun , Guo Yang , Feng Zhixue , Zhang Chen , Wang Yiting , Zhou Jian
Published: December 2021

China's Grain for Green Program (GGP) is the largest reforestation program in the world. Previous studies lacked targeted assessments regarding its effectiveness in vegetation conversion. Using the time series of Vegetation Continuous Fields in southwest China, we derived the spatiotemporal variations in total vegetation cover, short vegetation (SV) cover and tree canopy (TC) cover during the period from 2000 to 2016. By conducting residual trend analyses independently on the SV and TC cover time series, the trends in human‐induced SV cover (SVH) and TC cover (TCH) were detected. Then, we performed overlay analyses to derive the human‐induced SV–TC conversion in cropland. The study found that the SV in southwest China showed a net browning trend whereas the TC presented a net greening trend. Approximately 69.5% of the pixels with a significant browning trend in SVH showed a significant greening trend in TCH. Furthermore, 50.6% of the human‐induced SV–TC conversion in southwest China occurred in cropland, and the proportion was even larger for the eastern provinces. Our study provides a targeted evaluation of the performance of the GGP and highlights that the implementation of the GGP has caused widespread SV–TC conversion that potentially mitigates global climate change.
LEARN: Essential Elements of Museum Education Programs for Young Children
Authors: Young Sarah , Eadie Tricia , Suda Liz , Church Amelia
Published: December 2021

Museums provide rich multimodal learning opportunities and long‐lasting memories for children and teachers who participate in museum excursions and outreach programs. Museum programs for preschool children embed hands‐on opportunities to engage children with new and diverse artefacts. Interactions in museum settings provide opportunities for adults and children to collaborate in learning. Our aim in this project was to explore the elements of museum programs that prove essential in engaging young children in museum education programs. Five museum presenters and 14 early childhood groups (14 teachers and 296 children) participated in the research project. Data collection included audio recordings of museum presentations, observations of child‐teacher interactions, multiliteracy observations, teacher interviews, and written reflections from the museum presenters. Coding across all datasets contributed to the five main themes in the findings, which we detail using the acronym LEARN: Learning artefacts; Embodied teaching and learning; Asking questions; Repetition: and Narrative. Multiple elements of museum education programs influence learning opportunities for young children. Both structural elements (e.g. designing a core narrative around concepts, or time for children’s individual queries during the program and hands‐on explorations with museum artefacts) and learning interactions (e.g. conversations where children and adults collaborate) contribute to engaging museum education programs for young children.
Performance of intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring systems in people with type 1 diabetes: A pooled analysis
Authors: Moser Othmar , Sternad Christoph , Eckstein Max L. , Szadkowska Agnieszka , Michalak Arkadiusz , Mader Julia K. , Ziko Haris , Elsayed Hesham , Aberer Felix , Sola‐Gazagnes Agnes , Larger Etienne , Fadini Gian Poalo , Bonora Benedetta Maria , Bruttomesso Daniela , Boscari Federico , Freckmann Guido , Pleus Stefan , Christiansen Sverre C. , Sourij Harald
Published: December 2021

Aims

To conduct a pooled analysis to assess the performance of intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitoring (isCGM) in association with the rate of change in sensor glucose in a cohort of children, adolescents, and adults with type 1 diabetes.

Material and Methods

In this pooled analysis, isCGM system accuracy was assessed depending on the rate of change in sensor glucose. Clinical studies that have been investigating isCGM accuracy against blood glucose, accompanied with collection time points were included in this analysis. isCGM performance was assessed by means of median absolute relative difference (MedARD), Parkes error grid (PEG) and Bland‐Altman plot analyses.

Results

Twelve studies comprising 311 participants were included, with a total of 15 837 paired measurements. The overall MedARD (interquartile range) was 12.7% (5.9‐23.5) and MedARD differed significantly based on the rate of change in glucose (P < 0.001). An absolute difference of −22 mg/dL (−1.2 mmol/L) (95% limits of agreement [LoA] 60 mg/dL (3.3 mmol/L), −103 mg/dL (−5.7 mmol/L)) was found when glucose was rapidly increasing (isCGM glucose minus reference blood glucose), while a −32 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L) (95% LoA 116 mg/dL (6.4 mmol/L), −51 mg/dL (−2.8 mmol/L)) absolute difference was observed in periods of rapidly decreasing glucose.

Conclusions

The performance of isCGM was good when compared to reference blood glucose measurements. The rate of change in glucose for both increasing and decreasing glucose levels diminished isCGM performance, showing lower accuracy during high rates of glucose change.
Glycaemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with dulaglutide, with and without concomitant insulin: Post hoc analyses of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Jódar Esteban , Romera Irene , Wang Qianqian , Roche Sarah Louise , García‐Pérez Luis‐Emilio
Published: December 2021

Aim

To investigate the association between treatment with dulaglutide and glycaemic variability (GV) in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

Materials and Methods

Post hoc analyses of six randomized, phase 3 studies were conducted to investigate the association between treatment with dulaglutide 1.5 mg once weekly and GV in adult patients with T2D. Using data from seven‐ and eight‐point self‐monitored plasma glucose (SMPG) profiles over up to 28 weeks of treatment, GV in within‐ and between‐day SMPG, and between‐day fasting glucose from SMPG (FSMPG) was assessed according to standard deviation and coefficient of variation.

Results

Pooled data from five studies with dulaglutide as monotherapy or added to oral glucose‐lowering medication, without concomitant insulin treatment, revealed clinically meaningful reductions in within‐ and between‐day SMPG, and between‐day FSMPG variability from baseline in the dulaglutide group. Comparisons between treatment groups in two studies demonstrated that reductions from baseline in within‐day and between‐day SMPG, and between‐day FSMPG variability were greater for treatment with dulaglutide compared with insulin glargine, as well as for treatment with dulaglutide when added to insulin glargine compared with insulin glargine alone.

Conclusions

In patients with T2D, treatment with dulaglutide as monotherapy or added to oral glucose‐lowering medication, without concomitant insulin treatment, was potentially associated with a reduction in GV. Treatment with dulaglutide was associated with a reduction in GV to a greater degree than insulin glargine. When added to insulin glargine, treatment with dulaglutide was associated with greater decreases in GV compared with insulin glargine alone. As reduced GV may be associated with better outcomes, these findings may have clinical relevance.
A comparison of coronavirus disease 2019 and seasonal influenza surveillance in five European countries: France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom
Authors: Rigoine de Fougerolles Thierry , Puig‐Barbera Joan , Kassianos George , Vanhems Philippe , Schelling Jorg , Crepey Pascal , de Lejarazu Raul Ortiz , Ansaldi Filippo , Fruhwein Markus , Galli Cristina , Mosnier Anne , Pariani Elena , Rasuli Anvar , Vitoux Olivier , Watkins John , Weinke Thomas , Bricout Hélène
Published: December 2021

Background

In response to the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) outbreak that unfolded across Europe in 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) called for repurposing existing influenza surveillance systems to monitor COVID‐19. This analysis aimed to compare descriptively the extent to which influenza surveillance systems were adapted and enhanced and how COVID‐19 surveillance could ultimately benefit or disrupt routine influenza surveillance.

Methods

We used a previously developed framework in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom to describe COVID‐19 surveillance and its impact on influenza surveillance. The framework divides surveillance systems into seven subsystems and 20 comparable outcomes of interest and uses five evaluation criteria based on WHO guidance. Information on influenza and COVID‐19 surveillance systems were collected from publicly available resources shared by European and national public health agencies.

Results

Overall, non‐medically attended, virological, primary care and mortality surveillance were adapted in most countries to monitor COVID‐19, although community, outbreak and hospital surveillance were reinforced in all countries. Data granularity improved, with more detailed demographic and medical information recorded. A shift to systematic notification for cases and deaths enhanced both geographic and population representativeness, although the sampling strategy benefited from the roll out of widespread molecular testing. Data communication was greatly enhanced, contributing to improved public awareness.

Conclusions

Well‐established influenza surveillance systems are a key component of pandemic preparedness, and their upgrade allowed European countries to respond to the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, uncertainties remain on how both influenza and COVID‐19 surveillance can be jointly and durably implemented.
Immunoproteasome modulates NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated neuroinflammation under cerebral ischaemia and reperfusion conditions
Authors: Chen Xingyong , Wang Yinzhou , Yao Nannan , Lin Zejing
Published: December 2021

Compelling evidence showed that both nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain‐like receptor family, pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasomes and the immunoproteasome participate in neuroinflammatory responses in cerebral ischaemia injury. Moreover, inhibition of either NLRP3 inflammasomes or the immunoproteasome attenuates both neuroinflammation and neurological deterioration during ischaemic stroke. However, the underlying mechanism between the immunoproteasome and NLRP3 inflammasomes under ischaemic stroke conditions remains to be established. In this study, using both in vitro and in vivo ischaemic models, we demonstrated that the immunoproteasome inhibition reduced the expressions of NLRP3 inflammasome‐associated proteins, including NLRP3, apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein (ASC), caspase‐1 and mature cytokines (interleukin [IL]‐1β and IL‐18). It also downregulated the levels of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB and pyroptotic‐ and apoptotic‐related proteins, and improved cell viability. In addition, inhibition of NF‐κB by the small molecule inhibitor Bay‐11‐7082 led to lower levels of NLRP3 inflammasomes and cleaved caspase‐1 proteins in BV2 cells after oxygen‐glucose deprivation and reoxygenation. Together, these findings suggest that the immunoproteasome may be responsible for inducing the expression and activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes via the NF‐κB pathway. Therapeutic interventions that target activation of the immunoproteasome/NF‐κB/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway may provide novel prospects for the future treatment of ischaemic stroke.
Generation and application of a monoclonal antibody specific for the ORF121 of cyprinid herpesvirus 2
Authors: Gao Wa , Zhao Lupin , Zheng Yihua , Wu Kaixuan , Xu Feiyang , Wang Hao , Lu Liqun , Jiang Yousheng
Published: December 2021

Cyprinid herpesvirus 2 (CyHV‐2) is a viral pathogen worldwide and causing high mortality on goldfish and silver crucian carp (Carassius auratus gibelio). In order to establish a stable and sensitive immunological diagnostic approach, the recombinant ORF121 protein encoded by the CyHV‐2 ORF121 gene, was selected as a capture antigen to identify cells and tissues infected with CyHV‐2 by immunological methods in this study. Firstly, the open reading frame of CyHV‐2 ORF121 was cloned into the PGEX‐4T‐3 vector and expressed in Escherichia coli. Purified recombinant ORF121 protein was then used as an antigen to prepare monoclonal antibodies, and an efficient hybridoma cell line was selected by dot‐blot assay. The resulting mAb‐3D9 was applied to detect CyHV‐2 in infected caudal fin of Carassius auratus gibelio (GiCF) cells and fish tissues by western blotting, immunofluorescence assays and immunohistological asays. The monoclonal antibody could specifically identify CyHV‐2 in infected GiCF cells and the gills, the kidney and the spleen tissues, and it could attenuate CPE by CyHV‐2 in vitro, suggesting it can be applied for CyHV‐2 detection in the crucian carp and ORF121 may be a candidate vaccine against CyHV‐2.
Streptococcus agalactiae infection caused spinal deformity in juvenile red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)
Authors: Piamsomboon Patharapol , Srisuwatanasagul Sayamon , Kongsonthana Kittipot , Wongtavatchai Janenuj
Published: December 2021

A case of juvenile red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) showing body deformity due to spinal curvature was investigated. Approximately 20% of the crop (4,000 fish/crop) was affected. Bacterial isolation from the kidney and tissue surrounding the spinal lesion of the affected fish was negative. Histopathology revealed granulomatous inflammation and Gram‐positive cocci in connective tissues around the bone and notochord. PCR assay confirmed the presence of S. agalactiae in the spinal tissue lesion. Spinal deformity in red tilapia observed in our study may be associated with the inflammatory process and granuloma that compress the skeleton structure. The present study highlights chronic streptococcosis in tilapia culture that may be unnoticed.
The effects of gender identity change efforts on Black, Latinx, and White transgender and gender nonbinary adults: Implications for ethical clinical practice
Authors: Heiden‐Rootes Katie , McGeorge Christi R. , Salas Joanne , Levine Samantha
Published: December 2021

Gender identity change efforts (GICE) and sexual orientation change efforts (SOCE) continue to be practiced by mental health professionals and religious organizations. It is frequently sought out by families who are rejecting loved ones with marginalized sexual orientations and gender identities. This study explored the impact of religious and nonreligious GICE on the mental health of transgender and nonbinary adults through a secondary data analysis of the U.S. Transgender Survey. Results found that both nonreligious and religious GICE were associated with increased odds of suicidal ideation and attempts. Only nonreligious GICE was associated with severe psychological distress. Black individuals showed increased odds of binge alcohol consumption when exposed to nonreligious change efforts, while White individuals showed decreased odds with both nonreligious and religious GICE. This study supports ethical and legal bans on GICE.
Improving preparation for scalp cooling: Learning from women undergoing chemotherapy for early‐stage breast cancer—The COOL study
Authors: Renehan Steffi , Tencic Monika , Jackson Kylie , Krishnasamy Meinir
Published: December 2021

Aims and objectives

This study set out to understand the experiences and expectations of scalp cooling among women with early‐stage breast cancer. The objective was to develop patient co‐produced information resources to better inform and prepare women considering scalp cooling during chemotherapy.

Background

Treatment‐induced alopecia is a common concern among women preparing for chemotherapy. Evidence indicates that many women feel inadequately prepared for scalp cooling, resulting in potentially mitigable distress and disappointment.

Design

A single‐site, sequential, explanatory mixed‐methods design was used. Participants included women with early‐stage breast cancer who had previously or were currently using, scalp cooling. Women completed an online survey exploring scalp cooling experiences and expectations and self‐selecting participants took part in one semi‐structured, audio‐recorded interview. Guidelines for Good Reporting of a Mixed Methods Study were followed.

Results

Forty‐nine women (69%) consented to take part in the survey and 23 took part in an interview. Most women described losing more hair than they expected. Many described feeling inadequately prepared for the discomfort of scalp cooling; the additional time needed to accommodate scalp cooling during treatment and, that they lacked information about self‐ care to help minimise hair loss. Importantly, several participants described variability in nurses’ knowledge and practical skills regarding scalp cooling.

Conclusions

To optimise experience of scalp cooling, women need comprehensive preparatory information about variability in efficacy of scalp cooling; time needed to accommodate scalp cooling; hair care during treatment, and the potential discomfort associated with it. They also need nurses to be confident and well informed about scalp cooling processes.

Relevance to clinical practice

Our study led to the development of online, patient co‐produced resources to help prepare and inform women considering using scalp cooling; and an online scalp cooling training module and checklist for nurses. Links to the resources are included in the manuscript.
Accuracy of Original vs. Non‐Original Abutments Using Various Connection Geometries for Single Unit Restorations: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rizvi Naureen , Alyahya Yasir , Rizvi Ali , Narvekar Unnati , Petridis Haralampos
Published: December 2021

Purpose

To ascertain whether the compatibility of non‐original abutments (NOAs) with dental implants is influenced by the type of implant connection, i.e.‐ internal or external, and whether certain combinations of componentry may be as compatible as the original components.

Methods

A structured literature search was conducted using 3 electronic databases (MEDLINE®, The Cochrane Library, and Web of Science Core Collection) for studies reporting on the use of non‐original abutments published between 1995 and 2020. This was supplemented with hand searching in relevant journals and references, as well as searching grey literature. Relevant studies were selected according to specific inclusion criteria. Data was collected for the following parameters: precision of fit, microleakage, micromorphological differences, micromotion, rotational misfit, screw loosening, maximum load capacity, fracture resistance, tensile strength, compressive strength and invivo implant and prosthesis outcomes.

Results

The electronic search and hand search yielded titles and abstracts of 5617 studies following de‐duplication; based on the eligibility criteria, 40 studies were finally selected. Overall, original abutments showed better precision of fit, ability to resist microleakage, prevention of rotational misfit and micromotion, and fatigue strength compared with non‐original abutments. Some non‐original abutments on external connections were comparable with original abutments in terms of precision of fit and resistance to screw loosening and may be associated with less catastrophic failures than those on internal connections.

Conclusion

Original abutments present more predictable outcomes than non‐original abutments with regards to the parameters investigated. However, it seems that external connections can provide some level of compatibility in terms of precision of fit and may also exhibit less catastrophic failures than NOAs on internal connections. This may be due to the increased rotational freedom external connections provide. There is a lack of information regarding the influence of connection geometry on many aspects of compatibility and therefore the current clinical recommendation should be to use original abutments. More laboratory studies comparing non‐original abutments on different implant connections are required. In addition, there is a need for long‐term in vivo studies providing data on the clinical performance of non‐original abutments.
Religion, Punitive Sentiment, and the Mediating Effect of Racial Resentment
Authors: Harris Jacob W. , Jones Melissa S. , Monson J. Quin
Published: December 2021

A “tough on crime” attitude has dominated criminal justice policy and practice in the United States since the 1970s. In an effort to understand this rise in punitiveness, scholars have identified racial attitudes and religion as significant predictors of punitive sentiment. However, little or no extant research has examined the potential mediating effect of racial resentment on the relationship between religion and punitive attitudes. Using data from the 2017 Kids’ Wellbeing Survey, ordinal and logistic regressions are employed to measure the relationships between religion, racial resentment, and punitive attitudes toward youth criminals. Findings indicate that the effects of religion, particularly Mainline Protestant, Evangelical, and Catholic affiliation, on punitive attitudes toward criminally involved youth is mediated by racial resentment. This suggests that racial resentment plays a significant role in understanding the relationship between religion and punitive sentiments.