bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative collagen analysis using second harmonic generation images for the detection of basal cell carcinoma with ex vivo multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Sendín‐Martín Mercedes , Posner Jasmine , Harris Ucalene , Moronta Matthew , Conejo‐Mir Sánchez Julián , Mukherjee Sushmita , Rajadhyaksha Milind , Kose Kivanc , Jain Manu
Published: November 2022

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer, and its incidence is rising. Millions of benign biopsies are performed annually for BCC diagnosis, increasing morbidity, and healthcare costs. Non‐invasive in vivo technologies such as multiphoton microscopy (MPM) can aid in diagnosing BCC, reducing the need for biopsies. Furthermore, the second harmonic generation (SHG) signal generated from MPM can classify and prognosticate cancers based on extracellular matrix changes, especially collagen type I. We explored the potential of MPM to differentiate collagen changes associated with different BCC subtypes compared to normal skin structures and benign lesions. Quantitative analysis such as frequency band energy analysis in Fourier domain, CurveAlign and CT‐FIRE fibre analysis was performed on SHG images from 52 BCC and 12 benign lesions samples. Our results showed that collagen distribution is more aligned surrounding BCCs nests compared to the skin's normal structures (p < 0.001) and benign lesions (p < 0.001). Also, collagen was orientated more parallelly surrounding indolent BCC subtypes (superficial and nodular) versus those with more aggressive behaviour (infiltrative BCC) (p = 0.021). In conclusion, SHG signal from type I collagen can aid not only in the diagnosis of BCC but could be useful for prognosticating these tumors. Our initial results are limited to a small number of samples, requiring large‐scale studies to validate them. These findings represent the groundwork for future in vivo MPM for diagnosis and prognosis of BCC.
Evaluation of guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Ji Yan‐Hong , Shi Yan‐Mei , Hei Qian‐Wen , Sun Jin‐Min , Yang Xiao‐Feng , Wu Tao , Sun Da‐Li , Qi Yu‐Xing
Published: November 2022

Background

To systematically evaluate the quality of the guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection and to analyze the differences and reasons for the key recommendations in the guidelines.

Methods

Databases and websites were systematically searched to obtain guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection. Four independent reviewers used the Guideline Evaluation Tool (AGREE II) to evaluate the included guidelines. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Fleiss' kappa coefficient were used to measure the consistency of evaluation guidelines between guide reviewers. Differences between guidelines and the reasons for the differences were analyzed by comparing the recommendations of different guidelines and the evidence supporting the recommendations.

Results

A total of 17 guidelines for Helicobacter pylori infection were included in this study. The AGREE II scores of these guidelines were low overall, with 4 of them had a score of over 60%, which indicates that the guidelines are recommended, and 13 of them having a score ranging from 30 to 60%, which indicates that the guidelines are recommended but need to be revised, while no guideline had a score of 30% or less, which indicates that they were not recommended. The analysis of these guidelines found that there were some differences in the main recommendations. Not all guidelines recommend sequential therapy as the recommended therapy. Whether bismuth quadruple therapy should be used as the recommended first‐line therapy is unclear. The antibiotic resistance rate is different in different regions. Combined with the local antibiotic sensitivity test, the eradication rate of Helicobacter pylori can be improved.

Conclusion

There are significant differences in the quality of Helicobacter pylori infection guidelines and the key recommendations. Improving the deficiencies of existing guidelines is an effective way to develop high‐quality guidelines and make reasonable recommendations for the treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in the future.
The landscape of research during post‐graduate medical training in New Zealand
Authors: Alamri Yassar
Published: November 2022

Formalised research opportunities offered to junior doctors in Australasia, and specifically New Zealand, are few and far in between. This is especially evident for interns in the first 2 years after graduation. Academic internships are positioned not only to fill this gap but also provide interns with long‐lasting skills beyond the confines of academia.
An exploration of social participation in Caribbean student nurses' use of social media in their learning journey
Authors: Cathala Xabi , Ocho Oscar Noel , Mcintosh Nichole , Watts Paul Nicholas , Moorley Calvin
Published: November 2022

Aims

To identify how social participation facilitates pre‐registration student nurses learning and professional development using social media.

Design

A social survey using thematic analysis to explore Caribbean student nurses' views of social media usage from an open‐ended question in a survey.

Methods

A qualitative analysis of student nurses from Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, who completed an open‐ended question in a survey. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results/Findings

The three themes identified were: (1) Social media and communication; (2) Social media and self‐care; and (3) Social media and learning.

Conclusion

This paper used qualitative evidence to identify and report a new way of viewing SoMe in nursing education as a student‐centred educational learning tool. SoMe can improve the effectiveness of student nurses learning, while developing fundamental skills (open‐mindedness, critical thinking, professionalism and decision‐making) for nursing practice. Social participation and connectivism theory are embedded in student nurses' learning journey. However, it has been used by student nurses outside the traditional university teaching and their capacity to own their personal learning. To meet the new generation of student nurses' learning needs, it is important that higher education institutions develop guidance, support and use of social media for learning to support student nurses in their education as students and also future professionals.

Impact

This study addresses how social participation is used in social media to contribute to Caribbean student nurses' education. The main finding is the introduction of a new learning theory supporting learning using social media. This study has an impact on using social media for learning.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
First evidence of multiple paternity in the blue shark (Prionace glauca)
Authors: Armada‐Tapia Sofía , Castillo‐Geniz José Leonardo , Victoria‐Cota Nelva , Arce‐Valdés Luis Rodrigo , Enríquez‐Paredes Luis Manuel
Published: November 2022

Multiple paternity (MP) is defined as the behaviour in which females successfully mate with multiple males leading to offspring from different sires within the same litter. MP seems to be frequent and an evolutionary advantage in elasmobranchs. Here the authors report for the first time the occurrence of MP in the cosmopolitan blue sharkPrionace glaucaL. The evidence, gatheredviamicrosatellite genotyping of pregnant females and their embryos, suggests that MP is very frequent in this species. Knowledge of MP inP. glaucashould help describe more precisely its reproductive biology and contribute to the management of its populations.
Stepping it up: Physical activity is associated with a lower incidence of prolonged gastric transit time in capsule endoscopy
Authors: Macedo Silva Vítor , Lima Capela Tiago , Freitas Marta , Arieira Cátia , Xavier Sofia , Boal Carvalho Pedro , Rosa Bruno , Moreira Maria João , Cotter José
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

Physical activity has been proposed as a potential factor influencing capsule endoscopy (CE) gastric transit time (GTT). However, there is no reported factual evidence confirming this association. We aimed to prospectively assess the effect of physical activity in the first hour of CE in the occurrence of prolonged GTT.

Methods

This is a prospective study including consecutive patients undergoing CE. For each patient, a step counter was attached to the CE register. The number of steps during the first hour of the procedure was registered. The main outcome was prolonged GTT (CE remaining in the stomach for > 1 h). Outcomes were adjusted for possible confounders by multivariate analysis.

Results

We included 100 patients, 60% undergoing small bowel CE and 40% colon CE. The mean number of steps in the first hour was significantly lower in patients with prolonged GTT (2009 ± 1578 steps) comparatively with those without prolonged GTT (3597 ± 1889 steps) (P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis including significant confounders, steps in the first hour were an independent predictor of prolonged GTT (P = 0.018).

Single‐handedly, the number of steps taken in the first hour had a good acuity for predicting prolonged GTT (area under the curve = 0.74; P < 0.001), with an optimal cut‐off of 2000 steps (sensitivity 81.3% and specificity 70%).

Conclusions

Physical activity during the first hour of CE significantly decreased the occurrence of prolonged GTT. These findings pave the way for further definition of clear instructions to give to patients undergoing CE.
Biaxial flexural strength and Weibull characteristics of a resin ceramic material after thermal‐cycling
Authors: Beyabanaki Elaheh , Ashtiani Reza Eftekhar , Moradi Mehrnoosh , Namdari Mahshid , Mostafavi Delaram , Zandinejad Amirali
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the flexural strength and Weibull characteristics of 3 different resin‐ceramic materials with a zirconia‐reinforced lithium silicate material after thermal‐cycling.

Material and methods

Four different computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing restorative materials (Vita Enamic, Lava Ultimate, Crystal Ultra, and Vita Suprinity) were tested. A total of 40 Ø12×1.2‐mm disks were prepared and divided into 4 groups (n = 10). Their flexural strength was evaluated after 5000 thermal‐cycles with a 4‐point biaxial flexure test using a universal testing machine. The Weibull modulus and probability of failure were also determined from the biaxial flexural strength data. Data were analyzed with one‐way ANOVA and the Tukey pairwise comparison test (α = 0.05).

Results

Significant differences were found among the materials in terms of biaxial flexural strength (p < 0.05). Vita Suprinity had the highest mean ±standard deviation flexural strength (289.1 ± 15.1 MPa), and Vita Enamic had the lowest (100.0 ± 3.2 MPa). The highest Weibull modulus was calculated for Crystal Ultra, followed by Vita Enamic, Lava Ultimate, and Vita Suprinity.

Conclusion

Vita Suprinity had the highest flexural strength when compared with the other materials tested. Crystal Ultra had the highest flexural strength among the resin‐ceramic materials. The highest Weibull modulus was calculated for Crystal Ultra and the lowest for Vita Suprinity.
Meta‐analytic evidence that attachment insecurity is associated with less frequent experiences of discrete positive emotions
Authors: Park Yoobin , Sanscartier Shayne , Impett Emily A. , Algoe Sara B. , Leonhardt Nathan D. , Schrage Kristina , Carmichael Cheryl L. , Collins Nancy L. , Conte Francesca , De Rosa Oreste , Ficca Gianluca , Fredrickson Barbara L. , Harris Paige , Keltner Dacher , West Taylor N. , MacDonald Geoff
Published: November 2022

Objective

Individual differences in attachment insecurity can have important implications for experiences of positive emotions. However, existing research on the link between attachment insecurity and positive emotional experiences has typically used a composite measure of positive emotions, overlooking the potential importance of differentiating discrete emotions.

Method

We conducted a meta‐analysis of 10 cross‐sectional samples (N = 3215), examining how attachment insecurity is associated with self‐reported frequency of experiencing positive emotions, with a distinction made between more social (i.e., love and gratitude) and less social (i.e., peace and awe or curiosity) positive emotions.

Results

High (vs. low) levels of both attachment anxiety and avoidance were associated with less frequent experience of positive emotions regardless of their social relevance. When analyzing each emotion separately, we found that attachment anxiety showed negative relations to all emotions except gratitude. Attachment avoidance was negatively associated with all emotions, and the link was even stronger with love (vs. peace, awe, or curiosity). Additional analyses of daily diary data revealed that attachment anxiety and avoidance were also negatively associated with daily experiences of positive emotions, regardless of social relevance.

Conclusion

Our results underscore the need to further investigate the mechanisms underlying insecure individuals' blunted positive emotional experiences.
Fidelity in School‐Based Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports: Current Status of Compliance
Authors: Krach S. Kathleen , McCreery Michael P. , Monk Malaya M. , Bagneris Jessica R.
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVE

The current study identified and compared different treatment fidelity reporting methods.

METHOD

This paper includes 2 studies. In Study 1, the researchers compared and contrasted 3 sources of fidelity obtained in a study previously published by the authors; whereas, Study 2 did the same using a structured review of the literature.

RESULTS

Fidelity reporting methods included: self‐reports, peer reports, observations, artifact review, and use of standardized procedures. Study 1: a statistically significant difference in fidelity results was identified between methods. Study 2: the most common method of reporting was no reporting (46%) followed by observations (25.6%), peer ratings (25.6%), and self‐report (23.1%). When studies reported that fidelity was evaluated, 57% subsequently provided specific fidelity results.

CONCLUSIONS

Given that intervention fidelity is reported differently depending on the method used, then standard guidelines are needed for how this construct should be assessed and reported in practice and research.
Increased expression of angiopoietin‐like protein 4 regulates matrix metalloproteinase‐13 expression in Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharides‐stimulated gingival fibroblasts and ligature‐induced experimental periodontitis
Authors: Kondo Shun , Kojima Kento , Nakamura Nobuhisa , Miyabe Megumi , Kikuchi Takeshi , Ohno Tasuku , Sawada Noritaka , Minato Tomomi , Saiki Tomokazu , Ito Mizuho , Sasajima Sachiko , Matsubara Tatsuaki , Mitani Akio , Naruse Keiko
Published: November 2022

Background

Angiopoietin‐like protein 4 (ANGPTL4) is produced in chronic or acute inflammation. Although ANGPTL4 increases in the periodontal ligament fibroblasts during hypoxia, the involvement and role of ANGPTL4 in periodontitis have not been elucidated.

Objective

In this study, we investigated whether ligature‐induced experimental periodontitis and/or Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharides (Pg‐LPS) would upregulate ANGPTL4 expression and whether ANGPTL4 would somehow involve in the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which are key molecules in the process of periodontal tissue destruction.

Methods

Experimental periodontitis was induced in 6‐week‐old male Sprague–Dawley rats by placing a nylon suture around the neck of the maxillary second molar. Two weeks after the induction of periodontitis, the periodontal tissue was excised and analyzed by histological/immunohistochemical staining and gene expression analyses. Human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) were stimulated with Pg‐LPS. The gene expression of ANGPTLs and receptors involved in ANGPTL4 recognition were observed. We also confirmed the changes in gene expression of MMPs upon stimulation with human ANGPTL4. Furthermore, we downregulated ANGPTL4 expression by short interfering RNA in hGFs and investigated the effect of Pg‐LPS on MMP production.

Results

Induction of periodontitis significantly increased the expression of ANGPTL4 in the gingiva. Pg‐LPS significantly increased the gene and protein expression of ANGPTL4 in hGFs but not the gene expression of other ANGPTLs or ANGPTL receptors. Recombinant human ANGPTL4 significantly increased MMP13 gene expression in hGFs. We also confirmed that MMP13 expression was increased in the gingiva during experimental periodontitis. Pg‐LPS induced MMP13 gene expression in hGFs. These results suggest the pivotal role of ANGPTL4 in periodontitis.

Conclusion

Periodontitis increases ANGPTL4 expression in the gingiva, further suggesting that increased ANGPTL4 may be a factor involved in enhancing MMP13 expression.
Thermochemical evolution of the acapulcoite–lodranite parent body: Evidence for fragmentation‐disrupted partial differentiation
Authors: Lucas Michael P. , Dygert Nicholas , Ren Jialong , Hesse Marc A. , Miller Nathaniel R. , McSween Harry Y.
Published: November 2022

Primitive achondrites of the acapulcoite–lodranite clan (ALC) are residues of partial melting that displays a continuum of thermal metamorphism and partial melting most likely set by burial depth within an internally heated, primordial acapulcoite–lodranite parent body (ALPB). New major and trace element data from eight ALC meteorites and the application of several thermometric methods suggest that the ALPB was affected by partial differentiation disrupted by rapid cooling from peak, magmatic temperatures. Application of rare earth element‐in‐two‐pyroxene thermometry recovers temperatures of 1125–1250 °C for lodranites, while two‐pyroxene solvus and Ca‐in‐olivine thermometry recover lower temperatures for ALC meteorites (941–1114 °C and 686–850 °C, respectively). Major and trace element disequilibrium in acapulcoite and transitional groups provides evidence for cryptic melt infiltration and melt rock reaction within these layers of the ALPB. From lodranites, we determined rapid cooling rates of ~1 to ~26 °C yr−1from peak temperatures, consistent with collisional fragmentation of the parent body during differentiation. After this initial period of rapid cooling, cooling rates decreased by two to four orders of magnitude through Ca‐in‐olivine closure temperatures (~750 °C). We hypothesize that the primordial ALPB possessed an onion shell‐type layered structure that was disrupted by collisional breakup during partial differentiation. Thermal modeling suggests that ALC samples originate from ~300 m to ~10 km radius collisional fragments that cooled rapidly over time scales of several to ~20,000 yr, then reaccreted to form a slower cooling, second‐generation rubble‐pile asteroid. The source of ALC meteorites is a second‐generation (or later) rubble‐pile body of S‐type spectral class located near the Jupiter 3:1 mean motion resonance in the Main Belt of asteroids.
A hierarchical framework for improving ride comfort of autonomous vehicles via deep reinforcement learning with external knowledge
Authors: Du Yuchuan , Chen Jing , Zhao Cong , Liao Feixiong , Zhu Meixin
Published: November 2022

Ride comfort plays an important role in determining the public acceptance of autonomous vehicles (AVs). Many factors, such as road profile, driving speed, and suspension system, influence the ride comfort of AVs. This study proposes a hierarchical framework for improving ride comfort by integrating speed planning and suspension control in a vehicle‐to‐everything environment. Based on safe, comfortable, and efficient speed planning via dynamic programming, a deep reinforcement learning‐based suspension control is proposed to adapt to the changing pavement conditions. Specifically, a deep deterministic policy gradient with external knowledge (EK‐DDPG) algorithm is designed for the efficient self‐adaptation of suspension control strategies. The external knowledge of action selection and value estimation from other AVs are combined into the loss functions of the DDPG algorithm. In numerical experiments, real‐world pavements detected in 11 districts of Shanghai, China, are applied to verify the proposed method. Experimental results demonstrate that the EK‐DDPG‐based suspension control improves ride comfort on untrained rough pavements by 27.95% and 3.32%, compared to a model predictive control (MPC) baseline and a DDPG baseline, respectively. Meanwhile, the EK‐DDPG‐based suspension control improves computational efficiency by 22.97%, compared to the MPC baseline, and performs at the same level as the DDPD baseline. This study provides a generalized and computationally efficient approach for improving the ride comfort of AVs.
Phytochrome B regulates reactive oxygen signaling during abiotic and biotic stress in plants
Authors: Fichman Yosef , Xiong Haiyan , Sengupta Soham , Morrow Johanna , Loog Hailey , Azad Rajeev K. , Hibberd Julian M. , Liscum Emmanuel , Mittler Ron
Published: November 2022

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the photoreceptor protein phytochrome B (phyB) play a key role in plant acclimation to stress. However, how phyB that primarily functions in the nuclei impacts ROS signaling mediated by respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH) proteins that reside on the plasma membrane, during stress, is unknown.

Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa mutants, RNA‐Seq, bioinformatics, biochemistry, molecular biology, and whole‐plant ROS imaging were used to address this question.

Here, we reveal that phyB and RBOHs function as part of a key regulatory module that controls apoplastic ROS production, stress‐response transcript expression, and plant acclimation in response to excess light stress. We further show that phyB can regulate ROS production during stress even if it is restricted to the cytosol and that phyB, respiratory burst oxidase protein D (RBOHD), and respiratory burst oxidase protein F (RBOHF) coregulate thousands of transcripts in response to light stress. Surprisingly, we found that phyB is also required for ROS accumulation in response to heat, wounding, cold, and bacterial infection.

Our findings reveal that phyB plays a canonical role in plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, regulating apoplastic ROS production, possibly while at the cytosol, and that phyB and RBOHD/RBOHF function in the same regulatory pathway.
Whose techno‐utopia? Power, privilege, and the religio‐secular frameworks of the contemporary biohacking movement
Authors: Rifai Emma
Published: November 2022

Committed to providing a form of this‐worldly salvation to its largely white, male, and wealthy practitioners, biohacking is a popular “citizen science” movement that applies a life‐hacking mentality to the intimate spaces of the body by embracing DIY biology. Exploring the contours of its power and privilege in the United States today, this essay works to historicize the contemporary biohacking movement by attending to discourses produced by some of its key personalities, its depictions in popular media, and to the growing body of academic scholarship that seeks to theorize biohacking's logics and rhetorics. After first constructing a basic genealogy and typology of the movement, this essay then considers the religio‐secular frameworks that shape biohacking's unique form of techno‐utopia. In particular, it examines what kind of future individuals are being promised in a world where they are invited to become superhuman, if they have the time and resources to pursue immortality.
The novel HLA‐B*55:131 allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Ma Qian‐ying , Zheng Zhong‐zheng , Du Ke‐ming , An Lin , Cheng Juan
Published: November 2022

HLA‐B*55:131 differs from HLA‐B*55:02:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 4.
The novel HLA‐A*02:1068Q allele, identified by Sanger dideoxy nucleotide sequencing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Bai JiaoFeng , Zheng ZhongZheng , Du KeMing , An Lin , Pan Yaozhu
Published: November 2022

HLA‐A*02:1068Q differs from HLA‐A*02:03:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 1.
The Relation between Good Governance and Improving Performance in the Higher Education -HE- Institutions
Authors: Abdelaziz Samir
Published: November 2022

In the current globalized world characterized by advancements in technology, higher education institutions have a significant role to play by providing quality and relevant education. The provision of quality education relies on the governance of these institutions because effective governance is required to ensure that processes, practices, and roles are aligned toward achieving the intended objectives. Thus, this study examines the importance of professional governance in higher education and the way governance affects performance. The study employs a secondary research method in which data is collected from empirical studies. A qualitative research strategy based on an exploratory study design was adopted. Data were analyzed thematically and inductively based on the interpretive paradigm.The study findings reveal that good governance affects the performance of higher education institutions positively by leading to improved accountability, encouraging participatory processes, promoting inclusivity, and contributing to better resource management. It is recommended that higher education institutions improve their organizational culture before implementing effective governance practices.
Morphological abnormalities in the Chilean Eagle ray Myliobatis chilensis (Myliobatiformes: Myliobatidae) off the Peruvian coast, Southeast Pacific
Authors: Valderrama-Herrera Miguel , Kanagusuku Keny , Ramírez-Amaro Sergio
Published: November 2022

Records about morphological abnormalities in rays of the genus Myliobatis are scarce worldwide. In the present study, three specimens exhibiting different malformations were identified during the monitoring of the reproductive biology of the Chilean eagle ray Myliobatis chilensis, conducted from 2017 to 2018 in the fishing port of Salaverry (northern Peru). The identified specimens included: (i) a female with split pectoral fins, (ii) a male with an unfused-to-the-head pectoral fin, and (iii) a female with a short and thick tail. Here we report and discuss the implications and likely causes of these first three cases of morphological abnormalities in M. chilensis from the western Pacific.
Flux Weakening Operation Based Design of an Integrated Electrohydraulic Axial Piston Unit
Authors: Sarode Shanmukh , Shang Lizhi , Vacca Andrea , Sudhoff Scott D.
Published: November 2022

With the recent electrification trends affecting mobile hydraulics, there is a rising demand for the development of energy-efficient and compact hydraulic supply units driven by electric machines. Such units capable of multi-quadrant operation are commonly known as electrohydraulic units (EHUs). Owing to inherent differences in the power densities of the two machines, efforts are required to make more compact electric machines in order to reduce the overall size of the resulting EHU. This paper discusses the optimal design of such an integrated EHU with a radial flux permanent magnet synchronous machine with flux weakening operation for a swashplate type axial piston machine. A flux weakening mode current control strategy extends the operating speeds of the electric machine to its maximum power by injecting a negative d-axis current.

Such a flux weakening mode of operation can allow optimal sizing of the EHUs if the peak flow and pressure demands do not coincide. Based on a given work cycle and a reference hydraulic unit, a multi-objective genetic algorithm based design optimization is used to optimize the electric machine of the integrated EHU for the best efficiency and compactness. The EM design with flux weakening mode of operation are compared to the ones with max torque per amp mode of operation in terms of mass, torque density, and efficiency. Flux weakening based electric machine design allows sizing for maximum achievable power and helps not only to downsize the electric machine by 30% but also to save on the cost of the power electronics required.
Description of ontogenetic instars of Scapheremaeus marati sp. nov. (Acari, Oribatida, Cymbaeremaeidae) from Vietnam
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Salavatulin Vladimir M.
Published: November 2022

A new species of the genus Scapheremaeus (Oribatida, Cymbaeremaeidae)—S. marati sp. nov.—was collected from bark of different trees in Cat Tien National Park, southern Vietnam, is described based on adult and juvenile instars. The identification keys to known adults of Scapheremaeus from the Oriental region, as well as to larvae and nymphs of known scapheremaeid species are presented.
Psychometric Properties of the Turkish Adaptation of the Yale Physical Activity Survey
Authors: Seçer Erhan , Naz İlknur , Uzunlar Hilal , Çallioğlu Gülşah , Emük Yusuf , Başer Seçer Melda , Öztin Hasan
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to examine the convergent validity and test–retest reliability of the Turkish version of the Yale Physical Activity Survey (YPAS-TR). Eighty-one volunteer older adults were included in the study. Test–retest reliability was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient. Correlation coefficients between YPAS-TR and Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), Short Form-36, and Short Physical Performance Battery were examined for convergent validity. Acceptable intraclass correlation coefficient values were reached for YPAS-TR energy expenditure, total physical activity time and summary, vigorous, leisurely walking, moving, standing, and sitting indices (intraclass correlation coefficient = .96–.99). There was a moderate correlation between energy expenditure and total physical activity time with PASE (leisure time activities), PASE (household activities), and PASE (total) (r = .478, r = .468, r = .570, r = .406, r = .490, r = .550, respectively, p < .001). Also, a weak correlation was found between summary and leisurely walking index with PASE (household activities), standing index with PASE (leisure time activities), and PASE (total) (r = .285, p = .010; r = .257, p = .021; r = .238, p = .033; r = .283, p = .010; respectively). The results of the study suggest that the YPAS-TR is a valid and reliable measurement tool that can be used to assess the physical activity patterns of Turkish older adults.
Comparative Transcriptomics Sheds Light on Remodeling of Gene Expression during Diazotrophy in the Thermophilic Methanogen Methanothermococcus thermolithotrophicus
Authors: Maslać Nevena , Sidhu Chandni , Teeling Hanno , Wagner Tristan
Published: November 2022

The thermophilic anaerobic archaeon
M. thermolithotrophicus
is a particularly suitable model organism to study the coupling of methanogenesis to diazotrophy. Likewise, its capability of simultaneously reducing N
2
and CO
2
into NH
3
and CH
4
with H
2
makes it a viable target for biofuel production.
Supplemental Material: Accretion of an early Paleozoic Alaska-type arc onto northern North China: Implications for continental growth of the Central Asian orogenic belt
Authors: Zeng Hao , Song Dongfang , al. et
Published: November 2022

Text: Analytical Methods. Table S1: Major and trace element compositions for samples in this study. Table S2: Zircon U-Pb isotopic data for samples in this study. Table S3: Zircon Lu-Hf isotopic data for the early Paleozoic plutons in the Ganqimaodu area.
National levels, changes and correlates of ideal cardiovascular health among Beninese adults: evidence from the 2008 to 2015 STEPS surveys
Authors: Kaboré Michael , Hien Yéri Esther , Fassinou Lucresse Corine , Cissé Kadari , Ngwasiri Calypse , Coppieters Yves , Kirakoya-Samadoulougou Fati
Published: November 2022

Introduction

A higher number of ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) metrics is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular-related and all-cause mortality. However, the change in CVH metrics has rarely been studied in sub-Saharan Africa. We investigated the level and changes of CVH metrics and their correlates among Beninese adults between 2008 and 2015.

Methods

Secondary analysis was performed on data obtained from Benin’s 2008 and 2015 WHO Stepwise surveys (STEPS). In total, 3617 and 3768 participants aged 25–64 years were included from both surveys, respectively. CVH metrics were assessed using the American Heart Association definition, which categorised smoking, fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), total cholesterol (TC) and glycaemia into ‘ideal’, ‘intermediate’ and ‘poor’ CVH. The prevalence of ideal CVH metrics was standardised using the age and sex structure of the 2013 population census.

Results

Few participants met all seven ideal CVH metrics, and ideal CVH significantly declined between 2008 and 2015 (7.1% (95% CI 6.1% to 8.1%) and 1.2% (95% CI 0.8% to 1.5%), respectively). The level of poor smoking (8.0% (95% CI 7.1% to 8.9%) and 5.6% (95% CI 4.8% to 6.3%)) had decreased, whereas that of poor BP (25.9% (95% CI 24.5% to 27.4%) and 32.0% (95% CI 30.0% to 33.5%)), poor total cholesterol (1.5% (95% CI 1.0% to 1.9%) and 5.5% (95% CI 4.8% to 6.2%)) and poor fruit and vegetable consumption (34.2% (95% CI 32.4% to 35.9%) and 51.4% (95% CI 49.8% to 53.0%)) significantly increased. Rural residents and young adults (25–34 years) had better CVH metrics.

Conclusion

The proportion of adults with ideal CVH status was low and declined significantly between 2008 and 2015 in Benin, emphasising the need for primordial prevention targeting urban areas and older people to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease risk factors.
ImmunoPET: IMaging of cancer imMUNOtherapy targets with positron Emission Tomography: a phase 0/1 study characterising PD-L1 with89Zr-durvalumab (MEDI4736) PET/CT in stage III NSCLC patients receiving chemoradiation study protocol
Authors: Hegi-Johnson Fiona , Rudd Stacey E , Wichmann Christian , Akhurst Tim , Roselt Peter , Trinh Jenny , John Thomas , Devereux Lisa , Donnelly Paul S , Hicks Rod , Scott Andrew M , Steinfort Daniel , Fox Stephen , Blyth Benjamin , Parakh Sagun , Hanna Gerard G , Callahan Jason , Burbury Kate , MacManus Michael
Published: November 2022

Background

ImmunoPET is a multicentre, single arm, phase 0–1 study that aims to establish if89Zr-durvalumab PET/CT can be used to interrogate the expression of PD-L1 in larger, multicentre clinical trials.

Methods

The phase 0 study recruited 5 PD-L1+ patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Patients received 60MBq/70 kg89Zr-durva up to a maximum of 74 MBq, with scan acquisition at days 0, 1, 3 or 5±1 day. Data on (1) Percentage of injected89Zr-durva dose found in organs of interest (2) Absorbed organ doses (µSv/MBq of administered89Zr-durva) and (3) whole-body dose expressed as mSv/100MBq of administered dose was collected to characterise biodistribution.

The phase 1 study will recruit 20 patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy for stage III NSCLC. Patients will have89Zr-durva and FDG-PET/CT before, during and after chemoradiation. In order to establish the feasibility of89Zr-durva PET/CT for larger multicentre trials, we will collect both imaging and toxicity data. Feasibility will be deemed to have been met if more than 80% of patients are able complete all trial requirements with no significant toxicity.

Ethics and dissemination

This phase 0 study has ethics approval (HREC/65450/PMCC 20/100) and is registered on the Australian Clinical Trials Network (ACTRN12621000171819). The protocol, technical and clinical data will be disseminated by conference presentations and publications. Any modifications to the protocol will be formally documented by administrative letters and must be submitted to the approving HREC for review and approval.

Trial registration number

Australian Clinical Trials Network ACTRN12621000171819.
Friendship during patients’ stable and unstable phases of incurable cancer: a qualitative interview study
Authors: van Eijk Michelle , de Vries Daniel H , Sonke Gabe S , Buiting Hilde M
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Little is known about the added value of friendship during the care of intensive cancer disease trajectories. Friends, however, can play an important (caring-)role to increase their friends’ (mental) well-being. We explored the experiences and desires of friends while their ill friends were—most of the time—in a stable phase of incurable cancer.

Design

Qualitative study in the Netherlands based on 14 in-depth interviews with friends of patients living with incurable cancer. Interviews were performed at the home setting or the friend’s office. Data gathering was inspired by grounded theory and analysed with a thematic analysis.

Setting

The home setting/friend’s office.

Results

Friends reported to experience difficulties in how and how often they wanted to approach their ill friends. They emphasised the ever-present knowledge of cancer inside their friends’ body as a ‘time bomb’. They seemed to balance between the wish to take care for their ill friend, having a good time and not knowing what their ill friend desired at specific times. Some friends felt burdened with or forced to provide more care than they could, although they acknowledged that this relationship provided space to reflect about their own life.

Conclusions

Friends are constantly negotiating and renegotiating their relationship depending on the severity of the disease, transparency of patients about their illness, their previous experiences and personal circumstances in life. Although a decrease in friendship may impact a patient’s quality of life, friends also need to be protected against providing more care than they are willing or able to give. Healthcare professionals, being aware of this phenomenon, can assist in this.
Point-of-care biomarkers for prediction of kidney function trajectory among sugarcane cutters: a comparative test accuracy study
Authors: Hansson Erik , Wesseling Catharina , Wegman David , Ekström Ulf , Chavarria Denis , Glaser Jason , Jakobsson Kristina
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Heat-stressed Mesoamerican workers, such as sugarcane cutters, suffer from high rates of chronic kidney disease of non-traditional origin (CKDnt). We aimed to identify easily available early markers of rapid kidney function decline in a population at high risk of CKDnt.

Design

The accuracy of different biomarkers measured during harvest for prediction of cross-harvest kidney function decline were assessed in an exploratory study group, and the performance of the most promising biomarker was then assessed in an independent confirmation group.

Setting

Male sugarcane cutters in El Salvador and Nicaragua.

Participants

39 male Salvadoran sugarcane cutters sampled fortnightly at ≤9 occasions before and after work shift during harvest. 371 male Nicaraguan sugarcane cutters were sampled as part of routine monitoring during two harvests. Cutters worked at high physical intensity at wet-bulb globe temperatures mostly above 29°C for 6–8 hours per day 6 days a week during the 5–6 months harvest season.

Primary outcomes

Change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (CKD Epidemiology Collaboration) across the harvest season (ΔeGFRcross-harvest).

Results

Dipstick leukocyturia after work shift in the El Salvadoran group was the most promising marker, explaining >25% of ΔeGFRcross-harvestvariance at 8/9 occasions during harvest. Leukocyturia was associated with experiencing fever, little or dark urine, cramps, headache, dizziness and abdominal pain in the preceding 2-week period. Decreasing blood haemoglobin (Hb) and eGFR during harvest were also predictive of ΔeGFRcross-harvest. In the Nicaraguan confirmation dataset, those having ≥++ leukocyturia at any sampling during harvest had a 13 mL/min/1.73 m2(95% CI 10 to 16 mL/min/1.73 m2) worse ΔeGFRcross-harvestthan those without recorded leukocyturia.

Conclusion

Leukocyturia and Hb, both measurable with point-of-care methods, may be early indicators for kidney injury and risk for eGFR decline among heat-stressed male workers, thereby facilitating individual-level prevention and research aiming to understand the causes of CKDnt.
Predicting mortality and morbidity in emergency general surgery patients in a Jordanian Tertiary Medical Center: a retrospective validation study of the Emergency Surgery Score (ESS)
Authors: Raffee Liqaa , Almasarweh Sami A , Mazahreh Tagleb S , Alawneh Khaled , Alabdallah Nadeem Bilal , AL Hamoud Mohammad A , Aburayya Hamza A , Ayoub Fadi S , Issa Fadi , Ciottone Greg
Published: November 2022

Objective

The Emergency Surgery Score (ESS) is a predictive tool used to assess morbidity and mortality rates in patients undergoing emergent surgery. This study explores the ESS’s predictive ability and reliability in the Jordanian surgical population.

Design

A retrospective validation study.

Setting

A tertiary hospital in Jordan.

Participants

A database was created including patients who underwent emergent surgery in King Abdullah University Hospital from January 2017 to June 2021.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Relevant preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative variables were retrospectively and systematically gathered, and the ESS was calculated for each patient accordingly. In addition, a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the correlations between the ESS and postoperative mortality and morbidity along with intensive care unit (ICU) admissions.

Results

Out of total of 1452 patients evaluated, 1322 patients were enrolled based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The mean age of the population was 47.9 years old. 91.9% of the patients were admitted to the surgical ward through the emergency department, while the rest were referred from inpatient and outpatient facilities. The mortality and postoperative complication rates were 3.9% and 13.5%, respectively. Mortality rates increased as the ESS score gradually increased, and the ESS was evaluated as a strong predictor with a c-statistic value of 0.842 (95% CI 0.743 to 0.896). The postoperative complication and ICU admission rate also increased with reciprocal rises in the ESS. They were also evaluated as accurate predictors with a c-statistic value of 0.724 (95% CI 0.682 to 0.765) and a c-statistic value of 0.825 (95% CI 0.784 to 0.866), respectively.

Conclusion

The ESS is a robust, accurate predictor of postoperative mortality and morbidity of emergency general surgery patients. Furthermore, it is an all-important tool to enhance emergency general surgery practices, in terms of mitigating risk, quality of care measures and patient counselling.
Quality of life in patients with breast cancer with neoadjuvant chemotherapy: a systematic review
Authors: Zhao Yueqiu , Chen Licong , Zheng Xiaoqing , Shi Yulan
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The aims of this systematic review were to assess the impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) on breast cancer (BC) patients’ quality of life (QOL), to compare the different regimens of NAC on BC patients’ QOL, to compare NAC versus adjuvant chemotherapy on BC patients’ QOL and to identify predictors of QOL on patients with BC receiving NAC.

Design

The design used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Data sources

Cinahl, Embase, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane library and PsycINFO were searched through 27 December 2021.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

The inclusion criteria were included: patients with BC receiving NAC, outcome measures related to QOL and published in English. The exclusion criteria were included: duplicates or overlapping participants, not original research, data or full text not available and qualitative study.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers used standardised methods to search, screen and code included studies. The risk of bias in individual studies was evaluated with Cochrane collaboration’s tool for assessing risk bias, Newcastle Ottawa Score or Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool. This systematic review performs narrative synthesis based on several different themes.

Results

The initial search resulted in 2994 studies; 12 of these studies fulfilled inclusion criteria. There was no significant difference in the QOL of BC before and after NAC, but patients experienced adverse reactions and depression during chemotherapy. Different regimens of NAC have different effects on patients’ QOL. Patients with NAC had more severe physical discomfort than those with adjuvant chemotherapy. However, BC patients’ QOL can be improved by intervening on social or family support, and these predictors, including chronotype, QOL before NAC and depression.

Conclusions

More original research is needed in future to understand the profile and predictors of QOL in patients with BC on NAC, which will help clinicians and patients make decisions and deal with NAC-related issues.
Chronic non-communicable diseases: Hainan prospective cohort study
Authors: Gu Xingbo , Lin Liuting , Zhao Chanjuan , Wu Ling , Liu Yumei , He Limin , Lin Guotian , Lin Yingzi , Zhang Fan
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The Hainan Cohort was established to investigate the incidence, morbidity and mortality of non-communicable diseases and their risk factors in the community population.

Participants

The baseline investigation of the Hainan Cohort study was initiated in five main areas of Hainan, China, from June 2018 to October 2020. A multistage cluster random-sampling method was used to obtain samples from the general population. Baseline assessments included a questionnaire survey, physical examination, blood and urine sample collection, and laboratory measurements, and outdoor environmental data were obtained.

Findings to data

A total of 14 443 participants aged 35–74 years were recruited at baseline, with a participation rate of 90.1%. The mean age of the participants was 48.8 years; 51.8% were men, and 83.7% had a secondary school or higher education. The crude prevalence of diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, hyperuricaemia, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, asthma, cancer, chronic hepatitis and metabolic syndrome were 8.6%, 9.2%, 2.0%, 37.1%, 7.1%, 2.3%, 1.4%, 2.1%, 4.1%, 2.2% and 14.5%, respectively.

Future plans

The Hainan Cohort is a dynamic cohort with no end date. All participants will be monitored annually for cause-specific mortality and morbidity until death. Long-term follow-up will be conducted every 5 years. The baseline population is considered to expand in the next wave of follow-up, depending on the availability of funding support.
Development and evaluation of a psychosocial adaptation questionnaire for women with breast cancer treated with adjuvant endocrine therapy: a single-centre, cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Jiang Haoran , Zhang Xiujie , Dong Yu , Xu Hui , Jin Feng
Published: November 2022

Objective

To develop and evaluate a psychosocial adaptation (PSA) questionnaire of women with breast cancer treated with adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET).

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Conducted study in a tertiary care centre in China from March to June 2021.

Participants

Women with breast cancer who have received AET.

Methods

Item development and extraction were based on literature, qualitative interviews (n=16) and assessment of content validity. 300 participants were recruited to perform item analysis, internal consistency reliability and exploratory factor analysis by cross-sectional studies. Finally, test–retest, criterion validity and confirmatory factor analysis of the questionnaire were performed with 96 respondents.

Results

An initial questionnaire was devised. The exploratory factor analysis demonstrated four factors: emotional response (six items), self-worth (five items), physical impacts (three items) and social communication (two items). The cumulative contribution of the factors was 65.057%. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the questionnaire was 0.876. The correlation coefficient between the questionnaire and General Self-Efficacy Scale was 0.565 (p<0.01). A 16-item questionnaire and its factorial structure were confirmed.

Conclusions

The 16-item questionnaire had good reliability and validity. This could be a useful tool to assess the PSA levels among women with breast cancer treated with AET and provide a basis for further research.