bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socioecological determinants of child oral health—A scoping review
Authors: Do Loc G. , Song Young Ha , Du Mi , Spencer A. John , Ha Diep H.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Child oral health is a result of interactions between multilevel influences within a complex system. Understanding those interactions informs conceptualizing a socioecological framework of important influences on oral health. This paper aimed to present a scoping review on the determinants of dental caries and their interactions in childhood and adolescence.

Methods

The two review questions were as follows: Which factors are determinants of child dental caries? and, How do determinants interact within and across socioecological levels? The three main electronic databases for biomedical records, PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus were searched, followed by reference check. The search and screening/selection procedures followed an a priori strategy and inclusion/exclusion criteria were specified in advance. The main components of the strategy were participants, concept and context. Following the final selection, eligible studies were assessed with quality appraisal tools for the risk of methodologic biases. Determinants reported in the included studies were then assigned to the micro‐, meso‐, exo‐ or macro‐systems levels in a socioecological framework. Interactions between determinants were also identified and reported.

Results

A total of 100 studies were included after removal of duplicates, screening on the title/abstracts and full‐text assessment among 3313 records initially identified. A higher number of studies included were cross‐sectional studies published in recent years. The majority of determinants found to influence child dental health were assigned to microsystem level within the framework. However, determinants were found at all levels and interactions were reported within and between socioecological levels. Determinants identified in the scoping review represent factors at different socioecological levels that influence child oral health.

Conclusion

Application of a socioecological model through a complex systems approach should lead to valid and robust progress towards practical solutions for better child oral health globally.
Decline in dental caries experience among schoolchildren in Taiwan, 2012–2020
Authors: Lin Po‐Yen , Huang Yao‐Hui , Chen Hsiu‐Hsien , Wang Jui , Chen Shao‐Ching , Chang Hong‐Ji , Chi Lin‐Yang
Published: November 2022

Objectives

This study investigated the association between the decline of the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) index and several family‐level and individual‐level factors among 6‐ to 18‐year‐old Taiwanese children from 2012 to 2020.

Methods

This study used data from the 2012 and 2020 Taiwan National Oral Health Survey of Children and Adolescents. Both surveys used similar methods and were performed in the same study age group. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on parents' sociodemographic background; the number of children in the family; oral health‐related knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours; and children's dietary habits. Dental caries was recorded through standardized oral examinations. Multivariable multilevel zero‐inflated negative binomial regression models were used to determine the association between family‐level and individual‐level factors and the DMFT index from 2012 to 2020.

Results

A total of 10 217 and 10 436 schoolchildren completed the oral examinations and questionnaires in the 2012 and 2020 surveys, respectively. The adjusted mean DMFT index of 12‐year‐old Taiwanese schoolchildren in 2020 was 2.01, denoting a significant decline from 2.50 in 2012 (adjusted mean ratio = 0.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.17, 0.23, p < .0001). Furthermore, children who often consumed sugar‐rich drinks had a significantly higher risk (mean ratio = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.10) of having DMFT than those who seldom consumed such drinks (p = .017).

Conclusions

In the period of 2012–2020, the DMFT index among Taiwanese children significantly declined. Children who often consumed sugar‐rich drinks had a higher DMFT index than those who seldom consumed such drinks. Our findings are valuable to paediatricians, dentists, nutritionists, and public health policymakers.
Comparability of childhood blood pressure measurements with two different devices
Authors: Streese Lukas , Hauser Christoph , Hanssen Henner
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Higher blood pressure levels are associated with vascular dysfunction as early as childhood. Here, we aim to compare two blood pressure devices for use in childhood populations within a school setting to screen for elevated blood pressure in children.

Methods

Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, mean arteriolar pressure (MAP) as well as heart rate (HR) were measured with the validated Oscillomate 9002 and Mindray VS‐900 in 82 randomly selected children between 10 and 12 years taking part in the EXAMIN YOUTH study in 2020. Measurements were performed after 5 min at rest in a sitting position in the school environment.

Results

Both devices showed strong correlations for systolic (r = 0.62, t[80] = 7, p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (r = 0.73, t[80] = 9.52, p < 0.001), MAP (r = 0.75, t[80] = 10.22, p < 0.001) and HR (r = 0.89, t[79] = 17.77, p < 0.001). There was no evidence for a statistically significant difference of both devices for systolic (110 ± 9 mmHg vs. 111 ± 9 mmHg, p = 0.574), diastolic blood pressure (67 ± 9 mmHg vs. 66 ± 9 mmHg, p = 0.301) as well as MAP (81 ± 8 mmHg vs. 80 ± 8 mmHg, p = 0.400) and HR (83 ± 12 BPM vs. 83 ± 11 BPM, p = 0.994).

Discussion

Both devices, the older Oscillomate 9002 and the current Mindray VS‐900 showed good agreement for the measurement of blood pressure in school children. It therefore appears to be feasible to measure childhood blood pressure with either device or replace one device with another in prospective long‐term studies or screening programmes as long as both are validated for use in children.
Repeated sevoflurane exposures inhibit neurogenesis by inducing the upregulation of glutamate transporter 1 in astrocytes
Authors: Kong Fanli , Zhang Yao , Wang Tingting , Zhong Liang , Feng Chun , Wu Yuanyuan
Published: November 2022

Sevoflurane is a widely used general anaesthetic in paediatric patients. Although repeated sevoflurane exposure is known to cause neurodevelopmental disorders in children, the mechanism of this neurotoxicity remains largely unknown. Herein, we investigated the role of glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1) in sevoflurane‐induced decreased neurogenesis. Neonatal rat pups (postnatal Day 7, PN7) were exposed to 3% sevoflurane for 2 h for three consecutive days. Neuron loss and decreased neurogenesis have been observed in the neonatal rat brain, along with decreased number of astrocytes. Apoptotic astrocytes were observed after repeated sevoflurane exposure in vitro, resulting in decreased levels of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Calcium overload was observed in astrocytes after repeated sevoflurane exposure, in addition to upregulation of GLT1. Inhibition of GLT1 activity ameliorates repeated sevoflurane exposure‐induced cognitive deficits in adult rats. Mechanically, the upregulation of GLT1 was caused by the activation of mRNA translation. RNA‐sequencing analysis further confirmed that translation‐related genes were activated by repeated sevoflurane exposure. These results indicate that cognitive deficits caused by repeated sevoflurane exposure during PN7–9 are triggered decreased neurogenesis. The proposed underlying mechanism involves upregulation of apoptosis in astrocytes induced by GLT1; therefore, we propose GLT1 as a potential pharmacological target for brain injury in paediatric practice.
Origin and characteristics of ancient organic matter from a high‐elevation Lateglacial Alpine Nunatak (NW Italy)
Authors: Pintaldi Emanuele , Santoro Veronica , D'Amico Michele E. , Colombo Nicola , Celi Luisella , Freppaz Michele
Published: November 2022

In high‐mountain areas, Pleistocene glaciations and erosion‐related processes erased most of the pre‐existing landforms and soils. However, on scattered stable surfaces, ancient soils can be locally preserved for long periods, retaining valuable palaeoenvironmental information. Such relict surfaces survived during glaciations either through coverage by non‐erosive, cold‐based, ice or as nunataks. Thus, soils preserved on such surfaces retain an excellent pedo‐signature of different specific past climatic/environmental conditions. In this study, we performed a detailed chemical characterisation of the organic material found in palaeosols, discovered inside periglacial features on a high‐elevation Lateglacial Alpine Nunatak (Stolenberg Plateau), above 3000 m a.s.l. (NW Italian Alps). The soil organic matter (OM) was separated into different pools by means of density fractionation, in order to separate the more fresh/unaltered free and occluded organic material (Light Fraction) from the stable fraction chemically bound to the mineral phase (Mineral Organic Matter—MOM). To better characterise the MOM fraction, this was further subjected to chemical fractionation, in order to separate the alkali‐extractable OM (ext‐MOM) from the fraction intimately bound to minerals. The obtained fractions were then characterised by chemical and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy. The results indicated that the largest part (>90%) of organic carbon was stored in the stable MOM pool, characterised by a high degree of decomposition and consisting mainly of paraffinic substances, such as lipids and waxes (37–50%), cellulose and hemicellulose (29–37%). The OM likely originated from autochthonous, well‐adapted, ancient alpine vegetation (alpine tundra) that grew on the Plateau during warm climatic phases since the end of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). These results further strengthen the palaeoenvironmental reconstruction at the Stolenberg Plateau, which represents a Lateglacial Alpine Nunatak, and has acted as biological refugia (at least) since the end of the LGM.

Highlights

The origin and composition of ancient organic matter from a high‐elevation Alpine Nunatak were uncovered.

More than 90% of organic carbon was stored in the stable mineral organic matter (MOM) pool.

Based on NMR and FT‐IR spectra the MOM fraction consisted of paraffinic substances (37–50%), cellulose and hemicellulose (29–37%).

The organic matter originated from ancient alpine tundra that developed on the Nunatak since the end of the Last Glacial Maximum.
Importance of interindividual interactions in eco‐evolutionary population dynamics: The rise of demo‐genetic agent‐based models
Authors: Lamarins Amaïa , Fririon Victor , Folio Dorinda , Vernier Camille , Daupagne Léa , Labonne Jacques , Buoro Mathieu , Lefèvre François , Piou Cyril , Oddou‐Muratorio Sylvie
Published: November 2022

The study of eco‐evolutionary dynamics, that is of the intertwinning between ecological and evolutionary processes when they occur at comparable time scales, is of growing interest in the current context of global change. However, many eco‐evolutionary studies overlook the role of interindividual interactions, which are hard to predict and yet central to selective values. Here, we aimed at putting forward models that simulate interindividual interactions in an eco‐evolutionary framework: the demo‐genetic agent‐based models (DG‐ABMs). Being demo‐genetic, DG‐ABMs consider the feedback loop between ecological and evolutionary processes. Being agent‐based, DG‐ABMs follow populations of interacting individuals with sets of traits that vary among the individuals. We argue that the ability of DG‐ABMs to take into account the genetic heterogeneity—that affects individual decisions/traits related to local and instantaneous conditions—differentiates them from analytical models, another type of model largely used by evolutionary biologists to investigate eco‐evolutionary feedback loops. Based on the review of studies employing DG‐ABMs and explicitly or implicitly accounting for competitive, cooperative or reproductive interactions, we illustrate that DG‐ABMs are particularly relevant for the exploration of fundamental, yet pressing, questions in evolutionary ecology across various levels of organization. By jointly modelling the effects of management practices and other eco‐evolutionary processes on interindividual interactions and population dynamics, DG‐ABMs are also effective prospective and decision support tools to evaluate the short‐ and long‐term evolutionary costs and benefits of management strategies and to assess potential trade‐offs. Finally, we provide a list of the recent practical advances of the ABM community that should facilitate the development of DG‐ABMs.
Size effects on spheroidal voids by Finite Fracture Mechanics and application to corrosion pits
Authors: Ferrian Francesco , Chao Correas Arturo , Cornetti Pietro , Sapora Alberto
Published: November 2022

The present work aims at investigating the failure size effect of a spheroidal void in an infinite linear elastic solid under remote tension by means of the coupled Finite Fracture Mechanics (FFM) approach. The opening stress field and the stress intensity factor (SIF) of an annular crack surrounding the cavity —necessary for the FFM implementation— are obtained numerically through parametric axisymmetric finite element analyses (FEAs): The spheroid aspect ratio is varied between 0.1 and 10 and Poisson's ratio between 0.1 and 0.5. Accordingly, semi‐analytical functions approximating the stress concentration factor and the SIF are put forward. Finally, the failure size effect on spheroidal voids is reported, and FFM predictions are compared with experimental results on the fatigue limit arising from corrosion pits, showing a fairly good agreement.
Is prednisone still a reasonable option in the treatment of withdrawal headache in patients with chronic migraine and medication overuse headache in the age of CGRP antibodies? A narrative review
Authors: Kaltseis Katharina , Hamann Till , Gaul Charly , Broessner Gregor
Published: November 2022

Objective

Along with the development of novel migraine therapies as the monoclonal antibodies against calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) and its receptor, the question arises if the treatment of chronic migraine (CM) and medication overuse headache (MOH) must be reconsidered. Have previous therapeutic approaches, including glucocorticoids, lost their role in the management of this debilitating disorder? In this narrative review, we present an overview of the available treatment options in CM and MOH in light of CGRP antibodies as well as an evaluation of the role of glucocorticoids in withdrawal therapy.

Background

Chronic migraine and medication overuse continues to be a difficult to treat condition. To date, potent treatment options are scarce and algorithms for advising patients with MOH are often still based on expert consensus rather than evidence‐based medicine. For years and probably due to lack of effective alternatives, glucocorticoids have been used in MOH, especially to alleviate withdrawal symptoms caused by detoxification. Small case series report positive effects of steroids in this respective patient group; however, randomized controlled trials did not show a consistent benefit, although this may be due to methodological limitations. Because of these discrepancies, their role in MOH has been under debate ever since.

Methods

We searched the electronic database PubMed for articles up to June 1, 2022 on the use of glucocorticoids in CM and MOH.

Conclusion

Despite popular use in clinical practice, there is currently still no scientific evidence for the efficacy of glucocorticoids in patients with CM and MOH. Treatment with monoclonal antibodies achieved high transition rates from medication overuse to non‐overuse. However, further research is needed to evaluate the additional benefit of these new agents.
Ethylated analogue of Zingerone: A new and eco‐respectful preservative in cosmetics
Authors: Guerreiro Patricio , Cupferman Sylive , Lharidon Jacques , Rozot Roger , Dalko‐Csiba Maria
Published: November 2022

Objective

This article describes the eco‐design of a new preservative in cosmetics based on bio‐inspiration of natural extracts from traditional medicines. In order to reach the multiple specification targets, various structures have been synthesized and evaluated to select the one demonstrating broad antimicrobial spectrum with favorable environmental profile and application potential to a wide variety of formulas.

Methods

In order to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the synthesized structures, the method of the challenge test consisting in an artificial contamination of the sample with collection microbial strains and evaluation of the number of revivable microorganisms was used to select the most promising candidate. Validation of its antimicrobial potential was later confirmed on Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria, yeast and mold with measurement of its Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) in comparison with known preservatives. Environmental impact assessment of the selected candidate was achieved with the help of ready biodegradability and aquatic ecotoxicity tests performed according to appropriate Organization tes a strfor Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) and European Union (EU) guidelinesy.

Results

Bio‐inspired from turmeric and ginger extracts, an ethylated analog of Zingerone (EZ) with the chemical name 4‐(3‐ethoxy‐4‐hydroxyphenyl)butan‐2‐one demonstrates the strongest activity on Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans. Moreover, EZ shows a solubility in water two times higher than that of Zingerone thus increasing its interest as a potential preservative. Finally, its assessment of ready biodegradability and aquatic ecotoxicity in OECD‐EU tests with a favorable environmental profile confirms its unique interest and fully justifies its use in cosmetic formulas as an eco‐respectful preservative.

Conclusion

Bio‐inspiration based on technologies without noteworthy side effects but also on eco‐design, particularly through the use of measures of potential environmental impact very upstream of a development, are two fundamental elements for the launching of new eco‐friendly cosmetic ingredients. This approach has thus validated the strong potential of EZ as a preservative of eco‐respectful formulas. The selection of EZ is also a very good example of the achievement of two key objectives targeted by cosmetic companies for the development of a novel active ingredient: environmental performance and technical performance.
Childhood accidents — parents’ attitudes to prevention
Authors: Langley John , Silva Phil
Published: November 2022

The attitudes of parents to the prevention of accidents which involved their children and accidents in general are reported It is shown that neither a previous history of accidents nor socio‐economic status was reiated to attitudes to prevention and that many of the parents view accidents as being outside their control.
Poisoning prevention — results of a public media campaign
Authors: O'Connor Peter J.
Published: November 2022

The impact of the South Australian Poisoning Prevention Week (1977) was evaluated by recording the total attendances for poisoning before and after the campaign, and by the administration of questionnaires and interviews to parents of children presented to the Adelaide Children's Hospital for poisoning.

Results indicated that the campaign had no dramatic influence on the frequency or pattern of poisonings presented to the hospital. Information received by parents was variable and their knowledge of the use of syrup of Ipecac was a cause for concern. Few parents were motivated by the campaign to take any precautionary measures. Even after the occurrence of poisoning most parents did not make any effort to improve the level of safety in the home.

In the light of these results it is suggested that the allocation of resources to the evaluation and development of education programmes for school children may have a greater long term impact on poisoning than continuing with media campaigns like the Poisoning Prevention Week.
Children's reading disorders: problems of definition and a two‐year follow‐up
Authors: Aman Michael G. , Werry John S.
Published: November 2022

The advantages of various definitions of reading probiems are discussed. Specific reading disorders are often diagnosed as either developmental dyslexia or reading retardation. This paper endorses the iatter term as more useful because it a) is more objective, b) conforms to a disorder for which there is statisticai validation, and c) is reiativeiy free of prognostic connotations.

A two‐year foiiow‐up of children initially identified with severe reading retardation is reported. At initial testing, a broad range of family, cognitive, motor performance, activity level, behavioural and reading measures was collected. Style of remedial teaching was also examined in relation to reading gains. Gains in reading were highly variable, although the group as a whole lost ground over the two years. Of the predictor variables, only family size and reading style tended to forecast extent of reading gains whereas other measures were essentially non‐contributory. The results were discussed with respect to their implications for the management of such children.
Transcutaneous bilirubinometry: use in Australia
Authors: Palmer D. C. , Zenner E. M. , Drew J. H.
Published: November 2022

A new transcutaneous bilirubinometer was assessed under Australian conditions. To determine reproducibility Ihe bilirubinometer was used 126 times on a bilirubin standard. The coefficient of variation (CV) was 4.1% with a 70.6% chance of the machine giving the exact value; proving that the machine produced results that were reproducible. To determine precision tour infants were selected with total serum bilirubin concentrations ranging from 24 to 285 μmol/l. Repeated measurements with the transcutaneous bilirubinometer revealed CV's between 7.9% and 1.5%, indicating the eguipment is sufficiently precise over a wide range of total serum bilirubin concentrations. One hundred jaundiced newborn ihfants had serum and transcutaneous bilirubin measured simultaneously. Fifty‐five infants were < 37 weeks’ gestation, 26 Were from parents with varying degrees of skin pigmentation and 29 were receive phototherapy.

Transcutaneous bilirubin was determined at standardized sites by both medical and nursing staffs, and good results Were obtained by both groups. Good correlation was observed in both premature and term infants. No major differences were observed between results obtained in fair skinned Australian infants and in those from parents with varying degrees cl skin pigmentation. There was a poor correlation between transcutaneous and serum bilirubin in infants undergoing phototherapy. The transcutaneous bilirubinometer was therefore found to be accurate, capabie of reproducing results and capable of being used by non‐medicai personnei. It was usable in both term and preterm infants, and in both fair skinned ihfants and those from parents with varying degrees of skin pigmentation. The transcutaneous bilirubinometer shouid not, however, be reiied upon in infants receiving phototherapy.
Urinary calculi in children of the Kimberley region of Western Australia
Authors: Adsett Donald B.
Published: November 2022

“Endemic” idiopathic urinary calcuii in children have been reported from various developing countries, e.g. Indonesia and Thailand. A survey was conducted In the Kimberley region of Western Australia to assess the incidence, distribution and clinical features of this condition. Hospital records and Community Health Service files for the last five years were reviewed. Sixteen cases, all Australian aboriginal children were found and are reported.

The annual regional incidence was 7.6 per 10,000 aboriginal children, with a frequency of one in 234 paediatric hospital Admissions. For children of the desert area, the incidence was 24.3 per 10,000.

There was a significantly greater proportion of boys, 12/16 (p<.05) and children from the desert area, 12/16 (p<.001). The major aetiological factors were thought to be the low phosphate acidogenic cereal diet, the arid environment, Gastroenteritis and urinary tract infections. The clinical features, calculi characteristics and aetiological factors in relation fo this population are discussed.
Ultrasonography in the diagnosis and management of uniiateral hematometracoipos and associated renal agenesis
Authors: Cohen R. C. , Davey R. B. , LeQuesne G. W.
Published: November 2022

Two cases of unilateral hematometracoipos in a duplicated genital tract associated with ipsilateral renal agenesis are presented to demonstrate the role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis and management of both the renal and genital abnormalities. It is suggested that laparotomy and other invasive diagnostic studies are unnecessary in the initial management of these patients. Ultrasonography is the optimal non‐invasive investigation to define the anatomy of malformations of the genital tract and detect any associated ipsilateral renal agenesis. Whenever a genital tract duplication is diagnosed in a female an ultrasound examination of the renal tract should be performed, and vice‐versa, because of the high association of concomitant anomalies in the two systems.
Congenital rickets — a case report
Authors: Kirk Judy
Published: November 2022

A case of congenital rickets in the infant of a woman on regular haemodialysis for renal failure due to reflux nephropathy is described. Radiological evidence of healing rickets was seen by day 10 on low dose (150 u daily) parenteral vitamin D2.
Association of aplasia cutis congenita and fetus papyraceus in a triplet pregnancy
Authors: Markman L. , Sugar L. , Zuker R. M.
Published: November 2022

A case report is presented of a triplet pregnancy comprising an infant with aplasia cutis congenita, a fetus papyraceus and a normal infant. Postulated aetiologies of this association are discussed.
Reliability of a standardized tool for evaluating severity of cellulite in the female posterior thigh
Authors: Ponto Thellie , Benson Heather A. E. , Wright Anthony
Published: November 2022

Numerous products and minimally‐invasive procedures are available to reduce cellulite. However, there are a limited number of tools to evaluate the effects of these interventions and some are relatively complex to implement.

Objective

This study evaluated the reliability of a standardized grading system for scoring the overall severity of cellulite on the posterior thigh. The study evaluated inter‐rater and intra‐rater (test/re‐test) reliability of the method and engaged in an iterative process to develop a reliable method to evaluate changes in the appearance of cellulite.

Methods

There were two stages in the validation process. The first stage was an open process without evaluator training. The second stage was a more controlled process with training given and moderator involvement to review grade selections. In the first stage, inter‐rater reliability was examined across five evaluators who were asked to evaluate 24 photographs (right thighs) based on a cellulite graded severity chart. During the second stage, the same photographs were examined by paired evaluators who had received additional training. Scores were independently moderated by a third person. The inter‐rater reliability and intra‐rater reliability over a 4‐week interval were evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results

Twenty‐four female participants (18–51 years, mean 31.68 ± 9.03 years) with a mean BMI of 29.04 ± 6.52 participated in the trial. Five female evaluators completed the initial evaluations. In stage 1, the inter‐rater reliability (ICC2,5) was 0.838 (95%CI:0.700–0.922) and test/retest ICC3,1 values ranged from 0.360–0.990. In stage 2, the inter‐rater reliability for 2 evaluators improved to 0.978 (95%CI:0.948–0.991), and the test/retest reliability of the moderated scoring method improved to 0.993 (95%CI:0.983–0.997).

Conclusion

The iterative process developed a simple and reliable method of rating cellulite severity, with excellent inter‐and intra‐rater reliability, based on evaluating images of cellulite against a standard set of graded severity images. A reliable method of assessing cellulite severity is essential for undertaking future clinical trials to evaluate cellulite treatments.
Evaluation of a pilot emergency department linkage to care program for patients previously diagnosed with Hepatitis C
Authors: Hyde Zak , Roura Raúl , Signer Danielle , Patel Anuj , Cohen Jacob , Saheed Mustapha , Brinkley Sherilyn , Irvin Risha , Sulkowski Mark S. , Thomas David L. , Rothman Richard E. , Hsieh Yu‐Hsiang
Published: November 2022

There is a significant number of Emergency Department (ED) patients with known chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection who have not been treated with directly acting antivirals. We implemented a pilot ED‐based linkage‐to‐care program to address this need and evaluated the impact of the program using the HCV Care Continuum metrics. Between March 2015 and May 2016, dedicated patient care navigators identified HCV RNA‐positive patients in an urban ED and offered expedited appointments with the on‐site viral hepatitis clinic. Patient demographics and care continuum outcomes were abstracted from the EMR and analysed to determine significant factors influencing linkage‐to‐care (LTC) and treatment initiation rates. The ED linkage‐to‐care program achieved a 43% linkage‐to‐care rate (165/384), 22% treatment rate (84/384) and 16% sustained virologic response rate (63/384). Significant associations were found between linkage‐to‐care and increasing age (OR = 1.03), Medicare insurance (OR = 2.21) and having a primary care physician (PCP) (OR = 4.03). For patients who were linked, the odds of initiating treatment were also positively significantly associated with increasing age (OR = 1.04) and having a PCP (OR = 2.77). For patients who initiated treatment, the odds of sustained virologic response were marginally associated with having a PCP (OR = 4.92).Our ED linkage‐to‐care program utilized care coordination to successfully link nearly half of approached HCV RNA‐positive patients to care. This design can be feasibly replicated by other EDs given limited non‐clinical training required for linkage‐to‐care staff. Adoption of similar programs in other EDs may improve the rates of LTC and treatment initiation for previously diagnosed HCV patients.
Twenty‐two years of vegetation succession on the constructed Danish island Peberholm
Authors: Nilsson Staffan
Published: November 2022

Peberholm is a constructed Danish island in the Øresund strait. It was primarily constructed by calcareous clay from the sea floor, and is traversed by a highway and a railway. Being constructed from material without a seed bank, Peberholm constituted a good opportunity to study primary succession in an anthropogenic context. In this study, data from a survey of the vascular plant community of Peberholm was studied. The data span over a 22 year‐period, between 1999 and 2020. The development of the flora was analysed with regards to indicators for environmental factors and vegetation types, as well as occurrence of alien species or species of conservation concern. Peberholm experienced a rapid succession during its first five years. The effects of the initial ground disturbance quickly wore off, resulting in a relative decline in plant communities associated with ruderal land. These highly anthropogenic habitats were replaced with grasslands. The shrubification also began early on. The rapid initial changes were then replaced with a much slower but also more continuous change, resulting in the development of both more natural grasslands and an increased shrubification. Although several rare or threatened species colonized Peberholm from the beginning, the conservation value of the flora on a whole increased during the succession process of forming more natural vegetation types. The succession process demonstrated at Peberholm has more in common with the succession at urban soils than with naturally occurring primary succession.
Machine learning‐based placental clusters and their associations with adverse pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Petersen Julie M. , Parker Samantha E. , Dukes Kimberly A. , Hutcheon Jennifer A. , Ahrens Katherine A. , Werler Martha M.
Published: November 2022

Background

Placental abnormalities have been described in clinical convenience samples, with predominately adverse outcomes. Few studies have described placental patterns in unselected samples.

Objective

We aimed to investigate associations between co‐occurring placental features and adverse pregnancy outcomes in a prospective cohort of singletons.

Methods

Data were from the Safe Passage study (U.S. and South Africa, 2007–2015). Before 24 weeks' gestation, participants were randomly invited to donate placental tissue at delivery for blinded, standardised pathological examination. We used hierarchical clustering to construct statistically derived groups using 60 placental features. We estimated associations between the placental clusters and select adverse pregnancy outcomes, expressed as unadjusted and adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and robust 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

We selected a 7‐cluster model. After collapsing 2 clusters to form the reference group, we labelled the resulting 6 analytic clusters according to the overarching category of their most predominant feature(s): severe maternal vascular malperfusion (n = 117), fetal vascular malperfusion (n = 222), other vascular malperfusion (n = 516), inflammation 1 (n = 269), inflammation 2 (n = 175), and normal (n = 706). Risks for all outcomes were elevated in the severe maternal vascular malperfusion cluster. For instance, in unadjusted analyses, this cluster had 12 times the risk of stillbirth (RR 12.07, 95% CI 4.20, 34.68) and an almost doubling in the risk of preterm delivery (RR 1.93, 95% CI 1.27, 2.93) compared with the normal cluster. Small infant size was more common among the abnormal clusters, with the highest unadjusted RRs observed in the fetal vascular malperfusion cluster (small for gestational age birth RR 2.99, 95% CI 2.24, 3.98, head circumference <10th percentile RR 2.86, 95% CI 1.60, 5.12). Upon adjustment for known risk factors, most RRs attenuated but remained >1.

Conclusion

Our study adds to the growing body of epidemiologic research, finding adverse pregnancy outcomes may occur through etiologic mechanisms involving co‐occurring placental abnormalities.
Trajectories of lung function in urban firefighters
Authors: Abramson Michael J. , Glass Deborah C.
Published: November 2022

See related article
‘Not as a Poet, but a Pioner’: Fancy and the Colonial Gaze in William Davenant's Madagascar (1638)
Authors: Working Lauren
Published: November 2022

In the late 1630s, the court poet William Davenant applied his literary energies to Madagascar, an island off the eastern coast of Africa: ‘Thus in a dreame, I did adventure out…/Betweene the Southern Tropick and the Line’. While previous scholarship has highlighted the poem's ambiguous attitude towards empire, focusing on the rising interest in global travel and eastern diplomacy at Charles I's court, this article revisits the poem's genre and social context by focusing on its specific engagement with colonization. In doing so, it establishes Madagascar as an important example of how cavalier poets helped shape the aesthetics of early Stuart colonialism at court. The use of fancy – explored here through poetic style and wit sociability, female colonial networks at Henrietta Maria's court, and real and imagined objects, including Malagasy artefacts – becomes key to reconciling the seeming incongruities between the poem's lover‐conquerors and the colonial aspirations that underpinned the project.
The classification of suicide gestures: Examining the validity, measurement, and level of intent of a controversial construct
Authors: Huckins‐Noss Andrew M. , Stubbing Jessica , Fox Kathryn R. , Nock Matthew K. , Millner Alexander J.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The inclusion of suicide gestures in modern nomenclatures for self‐injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITB) is contentious due to their history of pejorative connotations and inconsistent operationalization and measurement. Here we sought to investigate the extent to which participants who endorse this behavior on a standardized SITB measure: (1) describe their behavior in a way that is consistent with contemporary definitions for suicide gestures; (2) accurately classify their behavior when presented with multiple SITB response options; and (3) consistently report their level of intent to die across survey items.

Methods

Participants were 83 adults from a community‐based sample who endorsed lifetime suicide gesture(s) in an online survey containing self‐report measures assessing their prior SITB engagement, followed by open‐ended questions eliciting narrative descriptions of their behaviors.

Results

Approximately 13% of participants who endorsed lifetime suicide gestures provided narrative descriptions that met criteria for the behavior, and around one‐third consistently reported zero intent to die in their explicit ratings. Additionally, some participants reported non‐zero intent to die from behaviors without direct potential for physical injury.

Conclusions

Overall, this study highlights substantial issues with the validity of current approaches to measuring suicide gestures. Implications for the classification of suicide gestures in clinical and research settings are discussed.
Training in the age of liberalization and crisis: Understanding the learning experiences of young Active Labour Market Programme Participants
Authors: Papadopoulos Orestis , Jones Katy
Published: November 2022

Vocational Training has been a prominent aspect of Active Labour Market Policy (ALMP) across EU member states, as part of efforts to boost the employability and human capital of young unemployed people and address new social risks arising within knowledge economies. However, young people's learning experiences of these programmes, and how these shape their early formative experiences in the labour market is underexplored. We address this gap by presenting new analysis of an extensive qualitative dataset, involving interviews with participants in Greece's Continuous Vocational Training (CVET) Program. Drawing on Unwin and Fuller's influential theory of restrictive and expansive learning environments which was developed through examination of formal apprenticeship programmes, we explore the extent to which these short‐term vocational training programs provide meaningful learning and work experiences for young people. We show that vocational training facilitated through ALMPs is often experienced as restrictive, underpinned by a lack of meaningful training, occupation‐specific skills, supportive guidance and quality employment prospects. Furthermore, we show how ALMPs in such contexts not only fail to support young people, but they also reinforce and legitimize precarious work practices by socializing the younger generation of workers into low‐pay, temporary and routine jobs.
Diagnostic effectiveness of stress biomarkers in cats with feline interstitial and bacterial cystitis
Authors: Gülersoy Erdem , Maden Mehmet , Parlak Tuğba Melike , Sayin Zafer
Published: November 2022

Background

Although bacterial cystitis (BC) and feline interstitial cystitis (FIC) are categorized under feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) due to their similar clinical manifestations, stress is an important factor for FIC. Therefore, the investigation of stress biomarkers might be important in the differentiation and elucidation of these conditions.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic effectiveness of serum and urine cortisol, serotonin, and dopamine concentrations and their relationship with stress in cats with FIC and BC.

Methods

Twelve healthy cats (Control group) and 24 cats with FLUTD were used. The cats with FLUTD were divided into FIC and BC groups.

Results

Multimodal environmental modification (MEMO) scores were found to be higher in the FIC group than in the BC and Control groups (P < .001). Urine serotonin concentrations were higher in cats with FIC and BC compared with those in the Control group. Based on ROC analyses, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of urine serotonin and dopamine were found to be statistically significant in being able to differentially diagnose cats in the FIC group vs the Control group. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of serum dopamine were also found to be statistically significant for the differential diagnosis of FIC and BC.

Conclusions

High urine serotonin concentrations were found in cats with FLUTD compared with healthy controls and interpreted as the presence of stress not only in cats with FIC but also in cats with BC. Also, based on the ROC‐based diagnostic performance evaluation of these stress biomarkers, urine serotonin, and dopamine concentrations can be used to diagnose FIC, and serum dopamine concentrations can be used to differentiate FIC and BC in cats.
Englishes of the Caribbean: A research bibliography
Authors: Schmalz Mirjam , Meer Philipp
Published: November 2022

The research bibliography presented in this paper lists some of the major research outputs on Englishes in the Caribbean. While selected foundational studies are listed, the focus lies on works published since the year 2000. Considering the linguistic diversity of the anglophone Caribbean, the publications listed include works on English‐based Creoles, Englishes, mesolectal language use and mixed codes, as well as English‐related contact varieties. A particular focus is on works investigating standardized (or standardizing) varieties of English spoken in the region. Efforts were made to represent both larger and smaller territories and islands. Potential limitations notwithstanding, we hope that this bibliography will prove useful to researchers and students interested in Caribbean varieties of English.
A Framing Analysis and Regional Comparison of Newspaper Media Reports of COVID-19 in Shanghai: Based on the LDA Topic Model
Authors: Wang Chuqi , Yin Haokai
Published: November 2022

In this study, we analyzed reports published by local and non-local newspapers on the 2022 COVID-19 outbreak in Shanghai using the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic modeling technique. Framing Theory suggests that both coverage types would typically produce similar media frames, notwithstanding the presence of slight differences in bias. We identified the media frames used by local and non-local newspapers on the Shanghai outbreak and our analysis subsequently informed our discussion on the similarities and differences that were uncovered. The paper offers suggestions for media reporting on how to better cover the outbreak.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Studies in Media and Communication, Vol. 10, No. 2
Authors: Johnson Patricia
Published: November 2022

Studies in Media and Communication (SMC) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether SMC publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 10, Number 2Aina Fernàndez Aragonès, Tecnocampus-UPF, SpainAmie Jones, University of Georgia, USAAndreas Veglis, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, GreeceAyşe Aslı Sezgin, Çukurova University, TurkeyBernard Naledzani Rasila, University of Venda, South AfricaCaitlin McLaughlin, St. Francis Xavier University, CanadaCamelia Cmeciu, Danubius University of Galati, RomaniaCarmen Pérez-Sabater, Universitat Politècnica de València, SpainChristof Demont-Heinrich, University of Denver, USAFrancis Adyanga Akena, Kabale University Uganda, UgandaHerman, Universitas HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar, IndonesiaImed Ben Labidi, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies, USAIrina Milutinović, Institute of European Studies, Belgrade, SerbiaJianbo Hou, Xi'an International Studies University, ChinaLambrini Papadopoulou, National and Kapodistrian University, GreeceMaría José Serrano, Universidad de La Laguna, SpainMasduki Masduki, Universitas Islam Indonesia, IndonesiaMatthias Degen, Westphalian University of Applied Sciences, GermanyMunira Fayzulloeva, Tajik State University of Law, TajikistanNavid Darvishzadeh, Georgia State University, USANina Gunnarsson, Jönköping university, SwedenNingyang Chen, Soochow University, ChinaPeggy Peattie, University of San Diego, USAPhilemon Bantimaroudis  University of Cyprus, CyprusRefat Aljumily, Newcastle University, UKSixto-García José, University of Santiago de Compostela, SpainTilahun Adamu Mengistie, University of Gondar, EthiopiaVerlumun Celestine Gever, University of Nigeria, NigeriaXiao Li, Hubei Institute of Fine Arts, ChinaYoung Joon Lim, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, USAPatricia JohnsonEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Studies in Media and CommunicationRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://smc.redfame.com
Effectiveness of transitional care interventions in patients with serious illness and their caregivers: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Caggianelli Gabriele , Sferrazza Silvia , Pampoorickal Kusumam , Accettone Roberto , Di Nitto Marco , Ivziku Dhurata , Fiorini Jacopo , D’Angelo Daniela
Published: November 2022

Objective:

The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of transitional care interventions for seriously ill patients and their caregivers.

Introduction:

Seriously ill patients and their caregivers may have complex health and social care needs that require services from numerous providers across multiple sectors. Transitional care interventions have been designed to enhance a collaborative approach among providers to facilitate the care transition process. However, the effectiveness of transitional care interventions for seriously ill patients, their caregivers, and the effects of such interventions on their outcomes remain unclear.

Inclusion criteria:

Randomized controlled trials with adult patients (≥18 y old) with serious illness and their caregivers involved in transitional care programs will be considered for inclusion. The patients’ outcomes will include mortality and/or survival, symptoms (eg, pain, nausea), and health-related quality of life. The caregivers’ outcomes will include caregiver burden, preparedness, and well-being.

Methods:

The JBI methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness evidence will be followed. The search strategy aims to locate published and unpublished studies. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, will be systematically searched from 2003 to the present. Studies in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German will be included. Critical appraisal and data extraction will be conducted using standardized tools. Quantitative data will be pooled in statistical meta-analysis or, if statistical pooling is not possible, the findings will be reported narratively. Certainty of the evidence will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42022319848