bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risky sexual behaviours and HIV testing among young people in Ghana: evidence from the 2017/2018 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey
Authors: Manu Adom , Ogum-Alangea Deda , Azilaku Joshua Cobby , Anaba Emmanuel Anongeba , Torpey Kwasi
Published: May 2022

Background

Young people have a higher chance of experimenting with sex before marriage, thus they engage in risky sexual behaviours that predispose them to HIV infections. The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between engaging in risky sexual behaviours and the uptake of HIV testing services among young people in Ghana.

Methods

We analysed secondary data from the 2017/2018 Ghana Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, which collected data on population and health indicators across the previous ten regions of Ghana, using a Computer Personal Assisted Interviewing application. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test and Binomial Logistic regression.

Results

Seventy-nine per cent (79%) of young women and 68% of young men did not use a condom during last sexual intercourse. In addition, 68% of young women and 87% of young men had not tested for HIV. Young women (AOR = 2.19; 95% CI 1.56–3.07) and young men (AOR = 3.38; 95% CI 1.18–9.64) aged 20–24 years had a higher likelihood of being tested for HIV compared to those aged 15–19 years. Young women with junior high school education (AOR = 2.03; 95% CI 1.08–3.81) were more likely to test for HIV compared with those who had pre-primary/no formal education. In addition, young women who were never married or in a union (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI 0.27–0.56) had 61% of reduced odds of being tested for HIV compared with those who were currently married or in a union. There was no significant association between risky sexual behaviours and HIV testing (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that condom use among sexually active young people was low. The uptake of HIV testing services was below expectation. Age, educational status, marital status and exposure to the mass media were the salient factors influencing the uptake of HIV testing among young people. Stakeholders should implement interventions to help increase the uptake of HIV testing and condom use among young people in Ghana.
Identification and application of a pair of noncompeting monoclonal antibodies broadly binding to the nucleocapsid proteins of SARS-CoV-2 variants including Omicron
Authors: Zhou Bing , Cheng Lin , Song Shuo , Guo Huimin , Shen Senlin , Wang Haiyan , Ge Xiangyang , Liu Lei , Ju Bin , Zhang Zheng
Published: May 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein (NP) is an important indicator for the virus infection, highlighting the crucial role of NP-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) used in multiple biochemical assays and clinical diagnosis for detecting the NP antigen. Here, we reported a pair of noncompeting human NP-specific mAbs, named P301-F7 and P301-H5, targeting two distinct linear epitopes on SARS-CoV-2 or SARS-CoV. We evaluated the application of P301-F7 in the analysis of enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, western blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and focus reduction neutralization test. We for the first time report a broad mAb effectively recognizing various live viruses of SARS-CoV-2 variants including Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron, indicating a wide range of application prospects.
A qualitative study exploring how young people perceive and experience substance use services in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Turuba Roxanne , Amarasekera Anurada , Howard Amanda Madeleine , Brockmann Violet , Tallon Corinne , Irving Sarah , Mathias Steve , Henderson Joanna , Marchand Kirsten , Barbic Skye
Published: May 2022

Background

Substance use among youth (ages 12–24) is troublesome given the increasing risk of harms associated. Even more so, substance use services are largely underutilized among youth, most only accessing support when in crisis. Few studies have explored young people’s help-seeking behaviours to address substance use concerns. To address this gap, this study explored how youth perceive and experience substance use services in British Columbia (BC), Canada.

Methods

Participatory action research methods were used by partnering with BC youth (under the age of 30) from across the province who have lived and/or living experience of substance use to co-design the research protocol and materials. An initial focus group and interviews were held with 30 youth (ages 12–24) with lived and/or living experience of substance use, including alcohol, cannabis, and illicit substances. The discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically using a data-driven approach.

Results

Three main themes were identified and separated by phase of service interaction, starting with: Prevention/Early intervention, where youth described feeling unworthy of support; Service accessibility, where youth encountered many barriers finding relevant substance use services and information; and Service delivery, where youth highlighted the importance of meeting them where they are at, including supporting those who have milder treatment needs and/or do not meet the diagnosis criteria of a substance use disorder.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a clear need to prioritize substance use prevention and early interventions specifically targeting youth and young adults. Youth and peers with lived and/or living experience should be involved in co-designing and co-delivering such programs to ensure their relevance and credibility among youth. The current disease model of care leaves many of the needs of this population unmet, calling for a more integrated youth-centred approach to address the multifarious concerns linked to young people’s substance use and service outcomes and experiences.
Do not judge a book by its cover: would Triatoma tibiamaculata (Pinto, 1926) belong to Triatoma Laporte, 1832, or to Panstrongylus Berg, 1879, with misleading homoplasies?
Authors: Bittinelli Isadora Freitas , de Oliveira Jader , dos Reis Yago Visinho , Ravazi Amanda , Madeira Fernanda Fernandez , de Oliveira Ana Beatriz Bortolozo , Montanari Giulia , Gomes Ana Julia Chaves , Cesaretto Laura Poloto , Massarin Isabella da Silva , Galvão Cleber , de Azeredo-Oliveira Maria Tercília Vilela , da Rosa João Aristeu , Alevi Kaio Cesar Chaboli
Published: May 2022

Background

Triatoma tibiamaculata is a species distributed in ten Brazilian states which has epidemiological importance as it has already been found infecting household areas. The taxonomy of this triatomine has been quite unstable: it was initially described as Eutriatoma tibiamaculata. Later, the species was transferred from the genus Eutriatoma to Triatoma. Although included in the genus Triatoma, the phylogenetic position of T. tibiamaculata in relation to other species of this genus has always been uncertain once this triatomine was grouped in all phylogenies with the genus Panstrongylus, rescuing T. tibiamaculata and P. megistus as sister species. Thus, we evaluated the generic status of T. tibiamaculata using phylogenetic and chromosomal analysis.

Methods

Chromosomal (karyotype) and phylogenetic (with mitochondrial and nuclear markers) analyses were performed to assess the relationship between T. tibiamaculata and Panstrongylus spp.

Results

The chromosomal and phylogenetic relationship of T. tibiamaculata and Panstrongylus spp. confirms the transfer of the species to Panstrongylus with the new combination: Panstrongylus tibiamaculatus.

Conclusions

Based on chromosomal and phylogenetic characteristics, we state that P. tibiamaculatus comb. nov. belongs to the genus Panstrongylus and that the morphological features shared with Triatoma spp. represent homoplasies.

Graphical Abstract
Long-term low-dose acetylsalicylic use shows protective potential for the development of both vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in patients with coronary heart disease but not in other individuals from the general population: results from two large cohort studies
Authors: Nguyen Thi Ngoc Mai , Chen Li-Ju , Trares Kira , Stocker Hannah , Holleczek Bernd , Beyreuther Konrad , Brenner Hermann , Schöttker Ben
Published: May 2022

Background

No population-based cohort study investigated a potential inverse association between long-term low-dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) use and all-cause dementia and its two most common sub-types Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VD) so far.

Methods

Cox regression models with inverse probability of treatment weighting to model the underlying cardiovascular risk were used to assess the associations of low-dose ASA use with all-cause dementia, AD, and VD incidence in community-dwelling older adults from the German ESTHER study (N = 5258) and the UK Biobank (N = 305,394). Inclusion criteria were age of 55 years or older and completed drug assessment. Meta-analyses of the individual participant data from the two prospective cohort studies were performed.

Results

Four hundred seventy-six cases of all-cause dementia, 157 cases of AD, and 183 cases of VD were diagnosed over a median of 14.3 years of follow-up in ESTHER. In the UK Biobank, 5584 participants were diagnosed with all-cause dementia, 2029 with AD, and 1437 with VD over a median of 11.6 years. The meta-analysis of both cohorts revealed a weak reduction in hazards for all-cause dementia (hazard ratio (HR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.96 [0.93 to 0.99]). The strongest protective effect of low-dose ASA was observed in participants with coronary heart disease (CHD) in both cohorts, and a significant interaction was detected. In particular, in meta-analysis, a 31% reduction in hazard for AD, 69% for VD and 34% for all-cause dementia were observed (HR [95% CI]: 0.69 [0.59 to 0.80], 0.31 [0.27 to 0.35], 0.46 [0.42 to 0.50], respectively). Furthermore, compared to non-users, users of low-dose ASA for 10 years or longer (who likely use it because they have CHD or a related diagnosis putting them at an increased risk for cardiovascular events) demonstrated a strong protective effect on all dementia outcomes, especially for VD (HR [95% CI]: 0.48 [0.42 to 0.56]) whereas no protective associations were observed with shorter low-dose ASA use.

Conclusions

The protective potential of low-dose ASA for all-cause dementia, AD, and VD seems to strongly depend on pre-existing CHD and the willingness of patients to take it for a minimum of ten years.
canSAR chemistry registration and standardization pipeline
Authors: Dolciami Daniela , Villasclaras-Fernandez Eloy , Kannas Christos , Meniconi Mirco , Al-Lazikani Bissan , Antolin Albert A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Integration of medicinal chemistry data from numerous public resources is an increasingly important part of academic drug discovery and translational research because it can bring a wealth of important knowledge related to compounds in one place. However, different data sources can report the same or related compounds in various forms (e.g., tautomers, racemates, etc.), thus highlighting the need of organising related compounds in hierarchies that alert the user on important bioactivity data that may be relevant. To generate these compound hierarchies, we have developed and implemented canSARchem, a new compound registration and standardization pipeline as part of the canSAR public knowledgebase. canSARchem builds on previously developed ChEMBL and PubChem pipelines and is developed using KNIME. We describe the pipeline which we make publicly available, and we provide examples on the strengths and limitations of the use of hierarchies for bioactivity data exploration. Finally, we identify canonicalization enrichment in FDA-approved drugs, illustrating the benefits of our approach.

Results

We created a chemical registration and standardization pipeline in KNIME and made it freely available to the research community. The pipeline consists of five steps to register the compounds and create the compounds’ hierarchy: 1. Structure checker, 2. Standardization, 3. Generation of canonical tautomers and representative structures, 4. Salt strip, and 5. Generation of abstract structure to generate the compound hierarchy. Unlike ChEMBL’s RDKit pipeline, we carry out compound canonicalization ahead of getting the parent structure, similar to PubChem’s OpenEye pipeline. canSARchem has a lower rejection rate compared to both PubChem and ChEMBL. We use our pipeline to assess the impact of grouping the compounds in hierarchies for bioactivity data exploration. We find that FDA-approved drugs show statistically significant sensitivity to canonicalization compared to the majority of bioactive compounds which demonstrates the importance of this step.

Conclusions

We use canSARchem to standardize all the compounds uploaded in canSAR (> 3 million) enabling efficient data integration and the rapid identification of alternative compound forms with useful bioactivity data. Comparison with PubChem and ChEMBL pipelines evidenced comparable performances in compound standardization, but only PubChem and canSAR canonicalize tautomers and canSAR has a slightly lower rejection rate. Our results highlight the importance of compound hierarchies for bioactivity data exploration. We make canSARchem available under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License (CC BY-SA 4.0) at https://gitlab.icr.ac.uk/cansar-public/compound-registration-pipeline.
A convolutional neural network for total tumor segmentation in [64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE PET/CT of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms
Authors: Carlsen Esben Andreas , Lindholm Kristian , Hindsholm Amalie , Gæde Mathias , Ladefoged Claes Nøhr , Loft Mathias , Johnbeck Camilla Bardram , Langer Seppo Wang , Oturai Peter , Knigge Ulrich , Kjaer Andreas , Andersen Flemming Littrup
Published: May 2022

Background

Segmentation of neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) in [64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE positron emission tomography makes it possible to extract quantitative measures useable for prognostication of patients. However, manual tumor segmentation is cumbersome and time-consuming. Therefore, we aimed to implement and test an artificial intelligence (AI) network for tumor segmentation. Patients with gastroenteropancreatic or lung NEN with [64Cu]Cu-DOTATATE PET/CT performed were included in our training (n = 117) and test cohort (n = 41). Further, 10 patients with no signs of NEN were included as negative controls. Ground truth segmentations were obtained by a standardized semiautomatic method for tumor segmentation by a physician. The nnU-Net framework was used to set up a deep learning U-net architecture. Dice score, sensitivity and precision were used for selection of the final model. AI segmentations were implemented in a clinical imaging viewer where a physician evaluated performance and performed manual adjustments.

Results

Cross-validation training was used to generate models and an ensemble model. The ensemble model performed best overall with a lesion-wise dice of 0.850 and pixel-wise dice, precision and sensitivity of 0.801, 0.786 and 0.872, respectively. Performance of the ensemble model was acceptable with some degree of manual adjustment in 35/41 (85%) patients. Final tumor segmentation could be obtained from the AI model with manual adjustments in 5 min versus 17 min for ground truth method, p < 0.01.

Conclusion

We implemented and validated an AI model that achieved a high similarity with ground truth segmentation and resulted in faster tumor segmentation. With AI, total tumor segmentation may become feasible in the clinical routine.
Effect of storage temperature and time on erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Authors: Hu Qi-Lei , Li Zuo-Jie , Lin Li , Zhang Liang , Lv Yin-Jiang , Wu Li-Feng , Chen Mei-Yun
Published: May 2022

Objective

This paper explores the effect of blood sample storage temperature and time on the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) by using the Weiss method.

Methods

Whole blood samples were collected from 80 patients and diluted 1:9 with sodium citrate solution. Each sample was split into two tubes. Using the Weiss method, ESR was tested within 1 h of collection, and one sample was placed at 4 °C and the other at room temperature (23 ± 2 °C). ESR was then measured at 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, and 24 h. The data were statistically analyzed with consideration for temperature and time.

Results

ESR decreased gradually over 6 h at room temperature, but the results were not statistically significant. Similarly, there was no significant difference in the decline of ESR within 8 h at 4 °C. However, ESR results decreased significantly after the samples were stored at room temperature for more than 6 h or at 4 °C for more than 8 h. ESR reduction was lower in the samples stored at 4 °C than in those stored at room temperature over the same time period.

Conclusion

Blood sample storage temperature and duration can affect the measurement of ESR using the Weiss method. ESR testing should be completed within 4 h of sample collection in clinical work.
A “cell-free treatment” for tendon injuries: adipose stem cell-derived exosomes
Authors: Lyu Kexin , Liu Tianzhu , Chen Yixuan , Lu Jingwei , Jiang Li , Liu Xueli , Liu Xinyue , Li Yujie , Li Sen
Published: May 2022

Tendon injuries are widespread and chronic disorders of the musculoskeletal system, frequently caused by overload of the tendons. Currently, the most common treatment for tendon injuries is "cell-free therapy", of which exosomes, which can treat a host of diseases, including immune disorders, musculoskeletal injuries and cardiovascular diseases, are one kind. Among the many sources of exosomes, adipose-derived stem cell exosomes (ASC-Exos) have better efficacy. This is attributed not only to the ease of isolation of adipose tissue, but also to the high differentiation capacity of ASCs, their greater paracrine function, and immunomodulatory capacity compared to other exosomes. ASC-Exos promote tendon repair by four mechanisms: promoting angiogenesis under hypoxic conditions, reducing the inflammatory response, promoting tendon cell migration and proliferation, and accelerating collagen synthesis, thus accelerating tendon healing. This review focuses on describing studies of preclinical experiments with various exosomes, the characteristics of ASC-Exos and their mechanisms of action in tendon healing, as well as elaborating the limitations of ASC-Exos in clinical applications.
A novel strategy sequentially linking mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation optimizes prognosis of refractory cardiac arrest: an illustrative case series
Authors: Hu Linhui , Peng Kaiyi , Huang Xiangwei , Wang Zheng , Wu Yuyu , Zhu Hengling , Ma Jingyao , Chen Chunbo
Published: May 2022

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to support cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), also known as extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR), has shown encouraging results in refractory cardiac arrest (RCA) resuscitation. However, its therapeutic benefits are linked to instant and uninterrupted chest compression (CC), besides early implementation. Mechanical CC can overcome the shortcomings of conventional manual CC, including fatigue and labor consumption, and ensure adequate blood perfusion. A strategy sequentially linking mechanical CPR with ECPR may earn extra favorable outcomes.

Case series

We present a four-case series with ages ranging from 8 to 94 years who presented with prolonged absences of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after CA associated with acute fulminant myocarditis (AFM) and myocardial infarction (MI). All the cases received VA-ECMO (ROTAFLOW, Maquet) assisted ECPR, with intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) or continuous renal replacement treatment (CRRT) appended if persistently low mean blood pressure (MAP) or ischemic kidney injury occurred. All patients have successfully weaned off ECMO and the assistant life support devices with complete neurological recovery. Three patients were discharged, except the 94-year-old patient who died of irreversible sepsis 20 days after ECMO weaning-off. These encouraging results will hopefully lead to more consideration of this lifesaving therapy model that sequentially integrates mechanical CPR with ECPR to rescue RCA related to reversible cardiac causes.

Conclusions

This successful case series should lead to more consideration of an integrated lifesaving strategy sequentially linking mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation with ECPR, as an extra favorable prognosis of refractory cardiac arrest related to this approach can be achieved.
Gut microbiota-derived ursodeoxycholic acid from neonatal dairy calves improves intestinal homeostasis and colitis to attenuate extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing enteroaggregative Escherichia coli infection
Authors: He Zhiyuan , Ma Yulin , Yang Sirui , Zhang Shuyuan , Liu Shuai , Xiao Jianxin , Wang Yajing , Wang Wei , Yang Hongjian , Li Shengli , Cao Zhijun
Published: May 2022

Background

Antimicrobials are often used to prevent and treat diarrhea induced by enteroaggregative Escherichia coli (EAEC) in young ruminants. However, drug overuse or misuse accelerates the spread of multidrug-resistant extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli. Thus, supplementary foods as alternatives to antibiotics are needed to prevent colibacillus diarrhea in neonatal dairy calves. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a therapeutic bile acid, helps alleviate colitis. However, how UDCA helps alleviate ESBL-EAEC-induced clinical symptoms and colitis remains unclear.

Results

We investigated the microbial profiles and metabolites of healthy and diarrheic neonatal calves to determine microbial and metabolite biomarkers in early-life development. Both the gut microbiota communities and their associated metabolites differed between healthy and diarrheic calves. Commensal Butyricicoccus, Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, Collinsella, and Coriobacterium were key microbial markers that distinguished healthy and diarrheic gut microbiomes. Random forest machine-learning algorithm and Spearman correlation results indicated that enriched UDCA, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and other prebiotics were strongly positively correlated with these five bacterial genera. We explored the effect of ursodiol on bacterial growth, cell adherence, and lipopolysaccharide-treated Caco-2 cells. Adding ursodiol induced direct antibacterial effects, suppressed proinflammatory effects, and reduced cell integrity damage. Oral ursodiol delivery to neonatal mice exhibited significant antibacterial effects and helped maintain colonic barrier integrity in mouse models of peritonitis sepsis and oral infection. UDCA supplementation attenuated colitis and recovered colonic SCFA production. To validate this, we performed fecal microbiota transplantations to inoculate ESBL-EAEC-infected neonatal mice. Microbiotas from UDCA-treated neonatal mice ameliorated colitis and hindgut commensal bacterial damage compared with that of the microbiotas from the control and placebo mice, as evidenced by colonization of abundant bacteria, including Oscillospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Clostridia_UCG-014, and upregulated SCFA production.

Conclusions

This study provided the first evidence that UDCA could confer diarrhea resistance in ESBL-EAEC-infected newborn dairy calves. UDCA blocked bacterial growth and invasion both in vitro and in vivo, alleviated commensal bacterial dysbiosis during ESBL-EAEC infection in neonatal mouse models of sepsis and colitis via the TGR5-NF-κB axis, and upregulated SCFA production in the hindgut digesta. Our findings provide insight into the UDCA-mediated remission of ESBL-EAEC infections and the potential role of UDCA as an antibiotic alternative.
How to use biogas?: A systematic review of biogas utilization pathways and business models
Authors: Mertins Anica , Wawer Tim
Published: May 2022

There are many options for the utilization of biogas in different energy sectors (power, heat, mobility). The technical possibilities of using biogas are more diverse than the actual business models applied in the biogas industry. This paper shows the possible utilization pathways of biogas, divided into coupled power and heat generation, direct utilization and upgrading to a gas of a higher value. Subsequently, an overview of the business models discussed is given by a systematic literature review. The latter shows that the investigation of biogas business models is focused mainly on the last decade and has increased slightly over time. The regions of investigation can be found worldwide, with a clear focus on Europe. Direct use is studied mainly in the Asian and African regions. In the European context, a shift from investigating combined heat and power use to upgrading the biogas produced is evident.
Fruit recognition method for a harvesting robot with RGB-D cameras
Authors: Yoshida Takeshi , Kawahara Takuya , Fukao Takanori
Published: May 2022

In this study, we present a recognition method for a fruit-harvesting robot to automate the harvesting of pears and apples on joint V-shaped trellis. It is necessary to recognize the three-dimensional position of the harvesting target for harvesting by the fruit-harvesting robot to insert its end-effector. However, the RGB-D (red, green, blue and depth) camera on the harvesting robot has a problem in that the point cloud obtained in outdoor environments can be inaccurate. Therefore, in this study, we propose an effective method for the harvesting robot to recognize fruits using not only three-dimensional information obtained from the RGB-D camera but also two-dimensional images and information from the camera. Furthermore, we report a method for determining the ripeness of pears using the information on fruit detection. Through experiments, we confirmed that the proposed method satisfies the accuracy required for a harvesting robot to continuously harvest fruits.
ID-Seg: an infant deep learning-based segmentation framework to improve limbic structure estimates
Authors: Wang Yun , Haghpanah Fateme Sadat , Zhang Xuzhe , Santamaria Katie , da Costa Aguiar Alves Gabriela Koch , Bruno Elizabeth , Aw Natalie , Maddocks Alexis , Duarte Cristiane S. , Monk Catherine , Laine Andrew , Posner Jonathan ,   program collaborators for Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes
Published: May 2022

Infant brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a promising approach for studying early neurodevelopment. However, segmenting small regions such as limbic structures is challenging due to their low inter-regional contrast and high curvature. MRI studies of the adult brain have successfully applied deep learning techniques to segment limbic structures, and similar deep learning models are being leveraged for infant studies. However, these deep learning-based infant MRI segmentation models have generally been derived from small datasets, and may suffer from generalization problems. Moreover, the accuracy of segmentations derived from these deep learning models relative to more standard Expectation–Maximization approaches has not been characterized. To address these challenges, we leveraged a large, public infant MRI dataset (n = 473) and the transfer-learning technique to first pre-train a deep convolutional neural network model on two limbic structures: amygdala and hippocampus. Then we used a leave-one-out cross-validation strategy to fine-tune the pre-trained model and evaluated it separately on two independent datasets with manual labels. We term this new approach the Infant Deep learning SEGmentation Framework (ID-Seg). ID-Seg performed well on both datasets with a mean dice similarity score (DSC) of 0.87, a mean intra-class correlation (ICC) of 0.93, and a mean average surface distance (ASD) of 0.31 mm. Compared to the Developmental Human Connectome pipeline (dHCP) pipeline, ID-Seg significantly improved segmentation accuracy. In a third infant MRI dataset (n = 50), we used ID-Seg and dHCP separately to estimate amygdala and hippocampus volumes and shapes. The estimates derived from ID-seg, relative to those from the dHCP, showed stronger associations with behavioral problems assessed in these infants at age 2. In sum, ID-Seg consistently performed well on two different datasets with an 0.87 DSC, however, multi-site testing and extension for brain regions beyond the amygdala and hippocampus are still needed.
Dietary inflammatory potential and the incidence of depression and anxiety: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Chen Meicui , Yao Zhicui , Zhang Tianfeng , Li Zengning
Published: May 2022

The potential modifiable role of diet in common psychological disorders, including depression and anxiety, has attracted growing interest. Diet may influence the occurrence of mental disorders through its inflammatory characteristics. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to explore whether dietary inflammatory potential is associated with the risk of depression and anxiety. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases up to February 2021. Articles related to dietary inflammatory potential and risk of depression or anxiety were included. After the elimination of repetitive and irrelevant literature, we conducted quality assessment, publication bias, and sensitivity analysis. In total, 17 studies with a total of 157,409 participants were included in the final analysis. Compared with the lowest inflammatory diet group, the highest group was significantly associated with the incidence of depression and anxiety, with the following pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs): 1.45 (1.30 ~ 1.62) for depression and 1.66 (1.41 ~ 1.96) for anxiety. A subgroup analysis by gender showed that this association was more prominent in women. For depression, the increased risk was 49% in women (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.28 ~ 1.74) and 27% in men (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.06 ~ 1.52). As for anxiety, the increased risk was 80% in women (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.30 ~ 2.49) and 47% in men (OR 1.53, 95% CI 0.81 ~ 2.89). As a result, long-term anti-inflammatory eating patterns may prevent depression and anxiety, whereas pro-inflammatory eating patterns may promote these conditions. People should add more fish, fish oil, fresh fruit, walnuts, and brown rice to their diet.
Content validity of a newly developed observer-reported measure for pediatric asthma in children aged 2–5 years
Authors: Zhang Yi , Clegg Jennifer L. , Keith Shannon , McFadden Shehan , Symonds Tara , Kumar Rajesh , Khan Asif H. , Kamat Siddhesh , Chao Jingdong
Published: May 2022

Background

An observer-reported outcome (ObsRO) measure assessing both symptom control and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with asthma younger than 6 years is lacking. The objective of this study was to evaluate the content validity of the Pediatric Asthma Questionnaire (PAQ), a newly developed 6-item ObsRO measure for caregivers of children aged 2–5 years diagnosed with asthma.

Results

In-depth, qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 parents or caregivers. The first part of the interview was an open-ended discussion whereby participants were asked to describe their observations of their child’s asthma symptoms and HRQoL impacts followed by a cognitive debriefing of a draft version of the PAQ. The most frequently reported symptoms were coughing (n = 15, 100%), wheezing (n = 14, 93%), and trouble breathing (n = 10, 67%). Overall, participants found the PAQ easy to complete and relevant to their child’s experience with asthma, with most reporting the instructions, response scales, and recall period for the items to be appropriate. The majority of participants (93%) believed they could accurately report on the items included in the PAQ based on their observations of their child’s asthma symptoms and impacts, or reliably get the information from the child’s teacher, school, or caregiver when their child was not in their presence. One item was modified based on feedback about the phrase “oral steroids” to clarify modes of administration. A few other minor changes were incorporated into the PAQ following suggestions from participants, including replacing the phrase “how often” with “how many days” in one of the items to improve clarity and overall consistency with the response options.

Conclusion

Qualitative data support the content validity of the PAQ as a fit-for-purpose and well-understood 6-item observer-reported outcome measure to evaluate both symptoms and asthma-specific HRQoL impacts experienced by pediatric asthma patients aged 2–5 years for use in clinical and real-world studies.
Development and content validity testing of patient-reported outcome (PRO) items to assess chest congestion associated with the common cold for use in children and adolescents
Authors: Arbuckle Rob , Marshall Chris , Grant Laura , Burrows Kate , Albrecht Helmut H. , Shea Tim
Published: May 2022

Background

This article describes qualitative interviews conducted with children (aged 6–11), adolescents (aged 12–17), and adults with the common cold as well as parents/caregivers of the 6–8-year-old children. The aim was to support the refinement and content validity testing of patient-reported outcome (PRO) items assessing chest congestion that could be used as pediatric clinical trial endpoints. Feasibility and acceptability of administering the PRO items electronically on a hand-held touch-screen device were also evaluated. The sample included children aged 6–8 years (n = 14), 9–11 years (n = 13), adolescents aged 12–17 years (n = 12), and adults (n = 10), all of who had current (n = 38) or recent (n = 11) cold. Both concept elicitation (CE) and cognitive debriefing (CD) interviews were conducted with all of these participants, conducted over in two rounds. Ten parents/caregivers of participants aged 6–8 years were also interviewed (separately from their child) regarding how they thought their children would understand the items. The CE interviews explored the qualitative experience of having chest congestion and related symptoms of the common cold. Following their CE interview, participants completed draft items on an electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) device twice daily for 2–5 days prior to their CD interview. During the CD interview participants were asked about relevance, understanding and interpretation of the draft PRO items. Qualitative analysis of the interview data and descriptive analyses of the ePRO data were conducted following both rounds of interviews, with modifications to the items implemented following Round 1 and tested in Round 2.

Results

Eight symptoms were reported by children during concept elicitation. Findings from the child, adolescent, and adult/parent interviews supported revisions to the items and enabled the selection of the best performing items. The results provided evidence that the final items were well understood by participants and relevant to their experiences of chest congestion as part of a common cold. Findings also provide support for using the same items across age groups.

Conclusions

The results of the CE and CD interviews provide evidence supporting the content validity of new PRO items assessing the experience of chest congestion symptoms associated with common cold experienced by children, adolescents, and adults.
The role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) genetic variations in COVID-19 infection: a literature review
Authors: Fawzy Manal S. , Ashour Hend , Shafie Aya Allah Ashraf , Dahman Nesrine Ben Hadj , Fares Abdelhamid M. , Antar Sarah , Elnoby Ahmed S. , Fouad Fatma Mohamed
Published: May 2022

Background

The angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is recognized to be the fundamental receptor of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV2), responsible for the worldwide Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) epidemic. However, genetic differences between people besides racial considerations and their relation to disease susceptibility are still not fully elucidated.

Main body

To uncover the role of ACE2 in COVID-19 infection, we reviewed the published studies that explore the association of COVID-19 with the functional characteristics of ACE2 and its genetic variations. Notably, emerging studies tried to determine whether the ACE2 variants and/or expression could be associated with SARS-CoV/SARS-CoV2 have conflicting results. Some researchers investigated the potential of “population-specific” ACE2 genetic variations to impact the SARS-CoV2 vulnerability and suggested no ethnicity enrichment for ACE2 polymorphisms that could influence SARS-CoV2 S-protein binding. At the same time, some studies use data mining to predict several ACE2 variants that could enhance or decline susceptibility to SARS-CoV. On the other hand, fewer studies revealed an association of ACE2 expression with COVID-19 outcome reporting higher expression levels of ACE2 in East Asians.

Conclusions

ACE2 gene variants and expression may modify the deleterious consequences of SARS-CoV2 to the host cells. It is worth noting that apart from the differences in gene expression and the genetic variations of ACE2, many other environmental and/or genetic factors could modify the disease outcome, including the genes for the innate and the adaptive immune response.
Recto-vestibular fistula with colonic duplication: report of three cases and review of literature
Authors: Piplani Rajat , Acharya Samir K. , Bagga Deepak
Published: May 2022

Background

Anorectal malformations associated with colonic duplications are a rare condition. Double terminations of tubular colonic duplication in the perineum are even rarer. Colonic duplication may have different presentations according to its location and size and incidence of less than 15% of all gastrointestinal duplications. We hereby report three such cases of recto-vestibular fistula along with underlying tubular colorectal duplication over a period of 10 years (2010–2020) managed successfully by different surgical approaches. These cases also illustrate the diagnostic challenge and variable presentation of colonic duplications in female patients with recto-vestibular fistula.

Case presentation

Case 1 is a patient with flank heteropagus with absent anal opening and recto-vestibular fistula, while cases 2 and 3 presented as suspected H-type recto-vestibular fistula with normal anal opening. All the cases were however managed with a specific surgical approach on case basis. Duplicated colon was excised in case 1, but in case 2 and case 3, duplicated colon was converted into single channel using proximal and distal staplers. Further definitive repair of female recto-vestibular fistula was done.

Conclusions

Colorectal duplication is a rare congenital malformation, and their association with anorectal malformations is even rarer. This association can have varied presentation, and surgical approach should be according to the congenital anatomical variations on case-to-case basis. Colonic duplications should always be ruled out in a female newborn child with history of passage of stools both from the vestibule and anus.
A living tool for the continued exploration of microplastic toxicity
Authors: Thornton Hampton Leah M. , Lowman Heili , Coffin Scott , Darin Emily , De Frond Hannah , Hermabessiere Ludovic , Miller Ezra , de Ruijter Vera N. , Faltynkova Andrea , Kotar Syd , Monclús Laura , Siddiqui Samreen , Völker Johannes , Brander Susanne , Koelmans Albert A. , Rochman Chelsea M. , Wagner Martin , Mehinto Alvine C.
Published: May 2022

Throughout the past decade, many studies have reported adverse effects in biota following microplastic exposure. Yet, the field is still emerging as the current understanding of microplastic toxicity is limited. At the same time, recent legislative mandates have required environmental regulators to devise strategies to mitigate microplastic pollution and develop health-based thresholds for the protection of human and ecosystem health. The current publication rate also presents a unique challenge as scientists, environmental managers, and other communities may find it difficult to keep up with microplastic research as it rapidly evolves. At present, there is no tool that compiles and synthesizes the data from these studies to allow for visualization, interpretation, or analysis. Here, we present the Toxicity of Microplastics Explorer (ToMEx), an open access database and open source accompanying R Shiny web application that enables users to upload, search, visualize, and analyze microplastic toxicity data. Though ToMEx was originally created to facilitate the development of health-based thresholds to support California legislations, maintaining the database by the greater scientific community will be invaluable to furthering research and informing policies globally. The database and web applications may be accessed athttps://microplastics.sccwrp.org/.

Graphical Abstract
How to Build an AI Jam
Authors: Aitken Shelagh
Published: May 2022

The Appreciative Inquiry Jam is an annual gathering where AI practitioners can come to revitalize their practice, meet and learn from their peers, and create opportunities for generative connections.
Experiences of and Reflections on the 2022 Global AI Jam
Authors: Subirana Miriam
Published: May 2022

The preparation for this year’s Jam took energy and enthusiasm on different fronts. As host of several sessions, I met with each of my co-facilitators beforehand.
Jamming in Their Own Style
Authors: Borich Jessica
Published: May 2022

As a global Appreciative Inquiry community, we were warmly welcomed into a virtual space that enabled practitioners and enthusiasts to “jam” in their own style. Each presenter shared a number of themes, sparking rich dialogue and generative learning.
Social Emotional Learning: A Case for Appreciative Inquiry to Develop TEI/SEL Skills
Authors: Davis Kimberly , Christian David D. , Hammett Richard , Low Gary , Seagraves-Robinson Tanya
Published: May 2022

This article, part three of a project using Appreciative Inquiry (AI) to develop transformative emotional intelligence/social-emotional learning skills (TEI/SEL) in teachers, provides a follow up case study of two teachers.
Magical Reflections
Authors: Veen Petra
Published: May 2022

There is a clear moment of silence. It’s the preparation for receiving the sounds of a song. It lasts only a few seconds, and it feels great. I feel excited and humbled at the same time for being presented some new music here; I love this!
Discovering Your ‘Next Chapter’ Story in Six Powerful Questions
Authors: Tjepkema Saskia , Verheijen Luc
Published: May 2022

The regional sessions of the “24-hour Jam around the world” was a welcome reason for us to reconnect with the participants of our Dutch/Flemish Appreciative Inquiry Learning Network on Positive Institutions.
Seeing red: rosacea subtypes and treatment
Authors: Belba Kerry
Published: May 2022

Kerry Belba explains that knowing the rosacea subtypes is key to both calming this inflammatory condition and providing successful treatment plans for patients
Evaluating carbon dioxide lasers
Authors: Ghanem Ali
Published: May 2022

Mr Ali Ghanem reviews the carbon dioxide lasers that are capable of reversing cutaneous photodamage, fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation
The role of veterinary nurses in canine cataracts
Authors: Foote Amber
Published: May 2022

Canine cataract formation is a commonly presented condition in first opinion practice. With the advancements in medical knowledge and the availability of surgical correction registered veterinary nurses are becoming increasing involved in their management and the education of owners. This article aims to discuss the aeitology of canine cataracts, the management options available and the role of veterinary nurses in these cases.
The use of behaviourally-active medication in companion animals part 2
Authors: Warnes Caroline , Brown Emma , Durston Tamsin
Published: May 2022

Behaviour cases are common in general practice and veterinary nurses can play a vital role in their identification and management. Full behavioural assessment and implementation of a behaviour modification protocol remains essential, but increasingly animals may also be prescribed psychoactive medications. This second of three articles focuses on the use of short-acting behaviourally-active medication in dogs and cats. This is particularly relevant to veterinary nurses because they are very likely to encounter animals that will benefit from short-acting medication either to facilitate handling in the veterinary surgery or to help them cope with other potentially scary situations such as being groomed or exposed to loud noises such as fireworks/thunderstorms. The most commonly-used short-acting behaviourally active drugs were outlined in Part 1. This article focuses on the decision-making process that will be needed when choosing the most appropriate short-acting behaviourally active drugs for individual animals.
Animal Cancer Trust
Authors: Adams Vicki
Published: May 2022

The Animal Cancer Trust aims to be the first port of call for owners of pets with cancer, and their veterinary surgeons and nurses. Chief executive and veterinary epidemiologist Vicki Adams explains what the charity does and how you can get involved.
AS ORGANIZAÇÕES DA SOCIEDADE CIVIL E SUAS RELAÇÕES INTERINSTITUCIONAIS NAS INOVAÇÕES SOCIAIS
Authors: Correia Suzanne Érica Nóbrega , Macário de Oliveira Verônic , Goméz Carla Regina Pasa , Machado André Gustavo Carvalho
Published: May 2022

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar o papel das organizações da sociedade civil e suas relações interinstitucionais nas iniciativas de inovação social. Para tanto, realizou-se um estudo de caso de natureza qualitativa, descritiva e exploratória na Articulação do Semiárido e como unidades de análise, investigou-se as organizações da sociedade civil vinculadas ao caso. Os resultados demonstram que a OSC desempenha os papéis de representar a sociedade civil em uma perspectiva democrática, expressando seus interesses e valores. Percebe-se que o Estado deixa de ser o único agente responsável pela elaboração de políticas públicas com foco nas principais necessidades da população, permitindo um processo de articulação bottom-up. No envolvimento com os atores institucionais, desempenham o papel de legitimação de suas escolhas; fazendo-se cumprir as relações contratuais e articulam o financiamento das iniciativas de inovação social. Evidencia-se a importância das OSC’s para a promoção de ações coletivas, na busca da transformação social.
DESENVOLVIMENTO ECONÔMICO DO ESTADO DO CEARÁ: Análise fatorial e de CLUSTER
Authors: PEREIRA BRAGA FRANCISCO LAERCIO , CAMPOS KILMER COELHO
Published: May 2022

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a dinâmica de desenvolvimento econômico dos municípios do Estado do Ceará a partir de um conjunto de 14 (quatorze) variáveis referentes ao ano de 2010. Utilizou-se a técnica de análise fatorial para a definição dos fatores e análise de clusters para a formação dos grupos homogêneos. A evidência empírica apontou uma extração de quatro fatores que explicam aproximadamente 80% da variância total do modelo de dinâmica de desenvolvimento dos municípios. Notou-se que sete municípios da Região Metropolitana de Fortaleza (RMF) se destacaram na dimensão econômica e que somente o município de Fortaleza se destacou na dimensão humana. Os resultados mostraram que as regiões Noroeste e Sul Cearense apresentaram dinâmica de desenvolvimento econômico inferior às demais. Por fim, constatou-se a existência de desequilíbrios na dinâmica de desenvolvimento entre as regiões cearenses.
Editorial V.38, n 114
Authors: G&R Editoria
Published: May 2022

Editorial do Volume 38, edição 114